Chapter 42

Nynaeve and Elayne hide in Falme’s streets, avoiding sul’dam and damane while observing the Seanchan’s oppressive order. Short of money, Elayne uses a small weave to steal apples, drawing Nynaeve’s ire. They pass Seanchan patrols and unsettling beasts, noting the townsfolk’s submissive fear and the absence of any resistance.

They take up a watch near the tall houses that now hold the damane, believing Egwene and possibly Min are inside. Nynaeve, who has tested a’dam mechanics once, hopes to free Egwene but lacks a way to reach her without exposure. A fleeting glimpse suggests Padan Fain is in Falme, heightening unease.

In her cramped room, Egwene secretly probes the a’dam, becoming sick as the device punishes unsanctioned channeling. Min arrives in Seanchan-style dress—now classed as a servant to maintain access—and tries to buoy Egwene’s spirits. Egwene describes Renna’s training and her new value: unusual strength in Earth, allowing her to identify ore and even locate an old iron mine.

Min reveals a possible ship ready to flee without permission. Egwene urges Min to save herself, fearing she will be sent to Seanchan soon. She shares that at least two Aes Sedai are collared; one, Ryma of the Yellow Ajah, is breaking under punishment and forced obedience. Demonstrating the a’dam’s conditioning, Egwene physically cannot touch Min’s knife or anything conceived as a weapon.

Renna enters, fastens the bracelet, and senses Egwene has been channeling. Angry yet controlled, Renna ends Min’s visit, strips Egwene of her name by renaming her Tuli, and promises severe punishment until Egwene professes love for being damane and vows perfect obedience, escalating the immediate danger.