Chapter 32 - Questions to Be Asked

Summary

The party arrives at Jac al'Seen’s farm, where they are welcomed amidst rumors and suspicion regarding the Dragon Reborn, Rand al’Thor, and the Whitecloaks. Jac and the farmers question Perrin about the Children of the Light’s accusations, to which he explains that the Whitecloaks label anyone who opposes them as a Darkfriend, citing Padan Fain’s treachery as proof. Verin Mathwin observes the social tension, noting how the Whitecloaks stir suspicion among neighbors, while Faile and Tomas remain with the group. Despite the underlying political concerns about war and Trolloc baiting, the locals affirm their loyalty to Perrin and the al'Thors, offering sanctuary and a meal before a boy arrives with news that Lord Luc is coming.

Characters

• Verin / Verin Mathwin (Aes Sedai, Mistress Mathwin, scholar) — Verin leads the group north from the sickhouse, riding alongside Tomas and behind Perrin and Faile. She questions the logic of the Trolloc inactivity and suggests it may be a lure for a larger conflict, jotting notes in her book while riding. At Jac al'Seen's farm, she feigns an interest in collecting local stories to deflect Jac’s advice to leave quickly and engages with the farm’s matron, Elisa, maintaining her composure while observing the social dynamics.
• Alanna — Alanna prepares for the departure from the sickhouse and watches the group saddle their mounts. She sits apart from the others in the sickhouse courtyard, wearing a satisfied smile as she watches the preparations, believing her control over the packhorses and supplies binds Perrin to the sickhouse, a strategy he has subtly circumvented.
• Faile / Lady Faile (Lady) — Faile insists on joining Perrin’s scouting party, defying his concerns about her safety. She rides with the group, and at the farm, she observes Wil al'Seen with admiration, prompting a subtle reaction from Perrin. She calms Perrin during the questioning by the farmers and accepts the al'Seens' hospitality.
• Loial (Ogier, Master Loial) — Loial is left behind at the sickhouse because his size would draw unwanted attention. Perrin instructs him to monitor Alanna and report any unusual behavior, to which Loial reluctantly agrees, intending to use the time to work on his book.