Chapter 24

On her first morning as a novice, Egwene endures chores set by the Accepted Pedra and is assigned orientation by Elayne, who reveals she is the Daughter-Heir of Andor. Elayne explains novice schedules, Sheriam’s strict discipline, and the Tower’s high attrition, including a controversial theory that centuries of Red Ajah hunts have culled the ability to channel.

Testing their abilities, Egwene and Elayne both form balls of light and, for the first time, perceive the glow of saidar around each other. Their talk turns to Rand al’Thor: Elayne admits interest, warns that Elaida seeks him, and mentions Whitecloaks near Dragonmount. The pair then encounter gentled Logain under Accepted supervision, a chilling reminder of what the Reds do to men who can channel.

Elayne introduces Egwene to Min, who was summoned to Tar Valon for study of her non-Power viewings. Min hints at fateful images—Elayne’s severed hand and sharing a husband—and Egwene’s white flame, though meanings remain unclear. Galad and Gawyn arrive from sword practice; Galad openly courts Egwene, while Gawyn remarks that many lives have been altered by Rand and wonders if he could be ta’veren.

Elaida appears, brusquely cutting Elayne down to novice rank protocol and sending the girls racing to chores at the High gong. Afterward, Elaida detains Min, probing how Moiraine summoned her and pressing for information about Rand. Min, shaken, keeps her secrets but worries over Elaida’s intent, Moiraine’s designs, and her own unexpected feelings for Rand.