Chapter 45

Underlieutenant Vilnar Barada halts a curious procession at Caemlyn’s Whitebridge Gate: Perrin Aybara with Two Rivers bowmen, Aiel, and Aram beneath a red wolfhead banner. Citing Bashere and Rand’s orders, Vilnar restricts entry. Perrin sends his followers back to camp and enters with Faile and nearby Aiel.

Escorted by Maidens through the Palace, Perrin and Faile meet Rand, who warmly congratulates their marriage and introduces Min. Faile’s brief jealousy subsides; she urges Perrin to remember his own authority. An awkward liveried “servant” (Sulin) hints at Aiel ji’e’toh tensions. Perrin reports Loial has gone on foot to find an abandoned stedding near Whitebridge.

In private, Rand unloads his burdens: Sammael in Illian, scattered Forsaken, rebels and Dragonsworn under a Prophet, fractious allies, and fears of Andoran unrest before Elayne’s coronation. He reveals Moiraine died killing Lanfear. Rand keeps Alanna and Verin at a distance and outlines the White Tower’s split, with Elaida’s embassy probing while another faction also seeks him—and a third group ready to kneel if they reconnect.

Perrin cautions against angering Aes Sedai, but Rand argues the schism limits their control. They reminisce about Emond’s Field’s changes from refugees and new crafts, debate village walls, and laugh over fashions. Rand refuses to visit Perrin’s camp, claiming he can protect old friends best by staying away.

Finally, Rand asks Perrin to go to Tear immediately, promising swift Travel and a secret plan known to few. Perrin declines for now—he must meet people in Caemlyn and see the Two Rivers folk—but agrees to consider it and keep the plan from everyone, even Faile.