Chapter 50 - Traps

Summary

At Cold Rocks Hold, Rand navigates Aiel customs by accepting gifts from the Jindo Maidens and attempting to give a bracelet to Aviendha, who is punishing herself by beating rugs. He confronts the Wise Ones about their use of Aviendha as a spy, leading to tense dialogue about their intentions and the prophecy. Rand retreats to his sleeping quarters, where he has a vivid dream involving Elayne, Min, and Lanfear, who physically bites his neck, accompanied by a shadowy male companion. Waking to find Aviendha watching him, he detects an evil presence and confronts two Draghkar in the hallway, killing them with Callandor. The group is then attacked by Trollocs and more Draghkar; Rand rallies the defense, killing more monsters, while Mat fights alongside the Aiel. After the battle, Moiraine warns Rand about the dangers of forcing the Pattern, and he decides to depart for Alcair Dal at first light, refusing to wait for the clan chiefs and ignoring Couladin's political maneuvering with the Shaido.