Contents
Chapter 56
Overview
Tear awakens to Rand’s triumph as a banner flies from the Stone. In council, Moiraine reveals an unbroken seal and argues the slain Ba’alzamon was likely Ishamael, not the Dark One; only four seals remain. Rhuarc discloses the Aiel are the People of the Dragon. Berelain delivers Lanfear’s possessive message, while Mat is reminded his ta’veren role is far from over.
Summary
At dawn, the city of Tear erupts with cries for the Dragon as a dragon-banner flies over the Stone. From within, Mat observes the stunned Defenders and triumphant Aiel, recalling Rand striding with Callandor and Aiel guards. Rhuarc quietly reads, unsettling Mat’s assumptions about Aiel.
In a High Lords’ council chamber, Moiraine meets with Egwene, Nynaeve, and Elayne. She notes Perrin is with a companion in danger and plans to aid her. Moiraine then produces an unbroken cuendillar seal, surprising the women. Mat, frustrated by Aes Sedai talk, demands to know who the “People of the Dragon” are and what the prophecies mean.
Rhuarc reveals the Aiel truth: men who survive Rhuidean return marked, and the Aiel are the People of the Dragon. Mat assumes the struggle is over, but Moiraine rebukes him, warning that naming the Dark One draws attention. She explains the body Rand slew was a man, likely the Forsaken Ishamael using the name Ba’alzamon, not the Dark One himself. With three seals broken and only four intact, the threat persists.
The women steel themselves to continue hunting the Black Ajah and facing the Forsaken. Berelain, First of Mayene, enters imperiously, announces her intent to dine with the Dragon, and departs after delivering a parchment. Moiraine reads Lanfear’s message staking eternal claim to Lews Therin and charging them to keep Rand for her.
Moiraine reminds Mat he is ta’veren and the Hornsounder; his part is not done. Though Mat contemplates running, he promises, “You can count on me,” as the city’s chants for the Dragon surge outside, underscoring a victory that is only the beginning.
Who Appears
- Mat CauthonObserves Tear’s reaction, questions prophecy, learns stakes persist, and reluctantly accepts continued ta’veren responsibility.
- Moiraine DamodredReveals an unbroken seal; asserts Ba’alzamon was likely Ishamael; warns only four seals hold; reads Lanfear’s claim.
- RhuarcAiel clan chief who discloses the Aiel are the People of the Dragon; commands respect within the Stone.
- Egwene al’VerePresses about Perrin, recalls Ishamael clue, steels herself to pursue the Black Ajah.
- Nynaeve al’MearaWorried for Perrin, determined to fight the Black Ajah; grapples with Moiraine’s revelations.
- Elayne TrakandAcknowledges the continuing threat; vows retribution on Liandrin; reacts to Lanfear’s message.
- Berelain sur Paendrag PaeronFirst of Mayene; delivers Lanfear’s message and boldly seeks favor with the Dragon.