Chapter 22 - A Path Chosen

Description

Following his separation from the group at Shadar Logoth, Perrin awakens beneath cedar branches near the Arinelle River, where he soon discovers Egwene has also survived the crossing with her horse Bela. After sharing a meager meal of bread and cheese from Egwene’s saddlebags, they discuss their options, with Perrin unexpectedly finding himself in a leadership role. Rather than waiting to be found or heading to Whitebridge where the Trollocs might expect them, Perrin proposes a bold plan to travel directly to Caemlyn, reasoning they can meet Moiraine there while avoiding their pursuers. Though initially surprised by the suggestion, Egwene agrees to the plan, and they decide that if Moiraine doesn’t find them in Caemlyn, they will continue on to Tar Valon to seek help from the Amyrlin Seat.

Characters

  1. Perrin Aybara - Wakes up after sleeping under cedar branches, discovers he's alone, and develops a plan to travel to Caemlyn with Egwene while showing unexpected leadership qualities.
  2. Egwene - Accepts Perrin's leadership, shares her supplies with him, and agrees to his plan to travel to Caemlyn.
  3. Bela - Serves as Egwene's mount and shelter in their makeshift camp.
  4. Haral Luhhan, Master Luhhan, Mistress Luhhan - Mentioned in reference to her saying about wishes and wings.

Takeaways

  1. Perrin and Egwene have reunited after being separated during the escape from Shadar Logoth, with both having successfully crossed the Arinelle River.
  2. Despite having limited supplies and being separated from the rest of their group, they devise a plan to travel directly to Caemlyn instead of following the river to Whitebridge, hoping to avoid the Trollocs and Fades who would expect them to take the river route.
  3. Egwene unexpectedly accepts Perrin's leadership in their situation, marking a significant shift in their relationship dynamic.
  4. Perrin decides that if Moiraine doesn't find them in Caemlyn, they will continue on to Tar Valon to seek help from the Amyrlin Seat.
  5. The pair maintains hope that Moiraine will find them, relying on her earlier promise that she could locate them if separated.