Contents
Chapter 17
Overview
Elaida confronts Egwene, Nynaeve, and Elayne, pressing them about their disappearance and probing for information on Rand al’Thor, implying suspicion of Black Ajah ties. Sheriam arrives, ends the interrogation, and enforces secrecy about the Gray Man. She then escorts the trio to witness the Amyrlin and others Heal Mat.
Summary
Elaida enters and immediately asserts authority over Egwene, Nynaeve, and Elayne, criticizing Nynaeve’s reliance on herbs and sharply rebuking Elayne for leaving the Tower, even threatening harsh discipline. She speaks of Elayne’s potential as a powerful Aes Sedai-queen and warns her not to risk that future.
Elaida then claims the three may be in danger because their disappearance coincided with Liandrin and her companions fleeing the Tower. She presses for an account of their absence, fixes on Egwene, and steers the questioning toward Rand al’Thor, calling him ta’veren and demanding details. Nynaeve tries to deflect by invoking the Amyrlin’s command for silence.
Sheriam arrives and coolly ends the interrogation, backing the directive that their past transgressions are to be forgotten after punishment. After Elaida departs with a veiled warning, Sheriam advises measured meekness and rebukes Nynaeve for speaking of the dead Gray Man, ordering absolute secrecy and asserting Tower control over the investigation.
When Nynaeve asks their destination, Sheriam reminds them Healing is witnessed by those who brought the sick. She confirms the Amyrlin and others will tend Mat, then leads the girls away, making clear the Amyrlin is not to be kept waiting.
Who Appears
- Elaida do Avriny a'RoihanRed Ajah Aes Sedai who interrogates the girls, pressures them about Rand, and warns Elayne about her future and conduct.
- Sheriam BayanarMistress of Novices who ends Elaida’s questioning, enforces secrecy about the Gray Man, and escorts them to Mat’s Healing.
- Egwene al'VereNovice under suspicion; tries to misdirect Elaida about their absence and worries about Mat’s fate.
- Nynaeve al'MearaAccepted who confronts Elaida calmly, invokes the Amyrlin’s orders, and presses about the Gray Man despite warnings.
- Elayne TrakandNovice and Daughter-Heir rebuked by Elaida; shows anger but submits, then prepares to witness Mat’s Healing.