25 Dreams of Galad

Egwene enters Tel’aran’rhiod from the Aiel camp, navigating the swirl of nearby dreams. She meets Elayne in the novice quarters of the Tower to speak privately. Elayne refuses to discuss Birgitte due to sworn confidences but admits Nynaeve believes Moghedien is hunting them. They discuss Rand’s stern rule with the Aiel, Nynaeve’s apology to Latelle, and the danger of Seanchan. Elayne departs to watch over Nynaeve.

Assuming an Accepted’s appearance, Egwene transports to Elaida’s study to search for clues about the rebel Blues. She skims volatile documents: agents lack Rand’s location; Tanchico reports have gone silent; rumors misplace Rand; turmoil grips the Borderlands; Whitecloaks mass in Amadicia; and an order to harshly punish the agent who let Elayne and Nynaeve escape. She confirms Elaida still seeks Rand and is distracted by other crises.

In the Keeper’s antechamber, reality flickers and Galad appears, inviting Egwene to walk with him, while Leane and Siuan suddenly occupy their former offices. Recognizing the snare, Egwene flees to Emond’s Field but is swept into an even deeper dream where Gawyn arrives, they share an intimate reunion, and her mother presents their child. Realizing the impossibility of these scenes, Egwene tears herself free and returns to her body, chastened by how close she came to being trapped.

Elsewhere in Tel’aran’rhiod, Moghedien reveals she set the trap and notes Egwene’s unexpected strength. More interested in Nynaeve, Elayne, and Birgitte, Moghedien vows to hunt and punish all three—striking from the shadows so they will not realize the danger until too late.