46 Other Battles, Other Weapons

After arguing with Aviendha over his condition and clothing, Rand insists on entering Cairhien. Aviendha grudgingly agrees to accompany him and enforce his limits. As they ride, Rand observes thousands of Shaido prisoners and a new scarlet headband among many Aiel—siswai’aman, the spear of the Dragon—signaling a troubling zeal. Aviendha shares conflicting Aiel beliefs about prophecy, shame, and survival, while Rand steels himself to trust no one.

Passing Kadere’s wagons, Rand notes Moiraine’s focus on her ter’angreal and her choice not to join him, deepening his wariness. The approach to Cairhien is grim with carrion and ash, but inside the gates the desperate populace cheers the Lord Dragon. Tairen officer signals ahead, and High Lord Meilan arrives to escort Rand, though the Maidens, Sulin commanding, maintain control. The streets clear for Rand without force, unnerving Meilan.

At the Royal Palace, Tairen pomp greets him, but Rand keeps the Defenders behind the Maidens and pointedly unsettles the seven High Lords with calculated courtesies to sow distrust among them. In the Grand Hall, before assembled Tairen and Cairhienin nobles, Rand refuses to sit the Sun Throne and instead demands a cushioned chair, signaling that the throne belongs to its rightful Cairhienin heir.

Rand then orders all but one Dragon banner removed and replaced with Cairhien’s Rising Sun, honoring Tairen aid yet restoring Cairhien’s dignity. The Cairhienin erupt in unprecedented jubilation, while Tairens reassess. Meilan and others, wrong-footed, watch as momentum shifts to Rand’s terms.

Finally, nobles of both nations kneel in alternating order to swear fealty under the Light. Colavaere and Dobraine stand out among Cairhienin, while Meilan and the Tairens mask resentment. As the oaths drag on, Rand’s determination to move against Sammael hardens, and an icy light in his eyes unsettles those who kneel.