The Wheel of Time, #5
The Fires of Heaven
by Robert Jordan
Contents
15 What Can Be Learned in Dreams
Overview
Nynaeve enters Tel’aran’rhiod to the White Tower and is confronted by Egwene, who demonstrates the Dream’s dangers and asserts control. Searching the Amyrlin’s study, they discover documents proving Elaida is Amyrlin and the Tower is split. Egwene later informs Moiraine, and they plan quiet vigilance while Rand races toward Jangai Pass.
Summary
Nynaeve deliberately enters Tel’aran’rhiod, aiming for the White Tower. After disguises and unnerving changes in the Amyrlin’s chambers, she is confronted by Egwene, who scolds her recklessness and conjures a nightmare to prove the World of Dreams’ lethal risks. Chastened, Nynaeve searches the Amyrlin’s desk while Egwene searches the Keeper’s.
Egwene finds a document signed by Elaida as Amyrlin, confirming Siuan’s fall and a Tower coup. The women infer a split among Ajahs and the danger this poses to Rand. Nynaeve, off-balance, confesses drinking Ronde Macura’s forkroot and being rescued by Thom and Juilin. Egwene urges secrecy about the Tower’s stance to delay Aiel disillusionment and emphasizes caution against Moghedien and other Forsaken seen in Tel’aran’rhiod.
Egwene wakes in the Aiel camp, notes Rand awake with Natael and watched by Maidens, and visits Moiraine. She reports Elaida’s ascension and signs of Ajahs breaking away. Moiraine mourns the Tower’s division yet focuses on guiding Rand while he remains free.
They discuss Forsaken activity in Tel’aran’rhiod—especially Lanfear—and agree to maintain close watch rather than attempt to shield Rand from everything. Moiraine explains her recent deference to Rand as a disciplined surrender to control saidar. Egwene leaves, recognizing her own growing authority and the need for calm resolve.
Who Appears
- Egwene al'VereConfronts Nynaeve in Tel’aran’rhiod, proves its dangers, finds proof of Elaida’s coup, informs Moiraine, and embraces calmer authority.
- Nynaeve al'MearaDreamwalks to the Tower, is reprimanded by Egwene, helps search documents, confirms Elaida’s rule, admits forkroot blunder.
- Moiraine DamodredHears of Elaida’s ascension and Tower schism, resolves to guide Rand quietly, explains her tactical deference.
- Rand al'ThorSleepless and studying the Prophecies; drives the Aiel toward Jangai Pass, counseled from a distance.
- AviendhaStands guard near Rand’s tent, comments on his wakefulness, maintains distance while watching over him.
- Jasin Natael (Asmodean)With Rand late at night; serves as companion while Rand studies prophecy.
- Lan MandragoranWarder near Moiraine’s tent, awake and watchful though feigning sleep.
- Elaida do Avriny a'RoihanAppears in Tel’aran’rhiod and via documents as the new Amyrlin, signaling the Tower’s schism and pursuit of Moiraine.
- EnailaMaiden of the Spear guarding Rand’s tent; wryly comments on his lack of sleep.