Chapter 36 - Web of the Pattern

Description

In the library of The Queen’s Blessing inn, Rand encounters Loial, a young Ogier who left his stedding without proper permission to see the world’s ancient groves. Initially mistaking him for a Trolloc, Rand soon finds himself sharing his entire journey with this earnest creature, including the truth about the Trollocs, Fades, and Darkfriends pursuing him. Loial, drawing on his knowledge of history and the Pattern, recognizes Rand as ta’veren - someone around whom the Pattern itself swirls and bends - and asks to travel with him to Tar Valon. Despite appreciating the Ogier’s comforting presence and vast knowledge, Rand reluctantly declines the offer due to the dangers involved, though he agrees to talk with Loial during his stay at the inn, all while wrestling with his concerns about his missing friends.

Characters

  1. Rand al'Thor - Watches Master Gill take them to a corner table, wrestles with thoughts about dwindling food supplies, and struggles internally with fear about rats potentially being the Dark One's eyes.
  2. Mat Cauthon, Matrim - Frowns at his food, expresses paranoia about potential Darkfriends, and shows increasing suspicion about Master Gill's quick offer of help.
  3. Basel Gill, Master Gill - Takes them to a secluded table, offers them shelter despite their inability to pay, reveals Thom's past as Court-bard, and shows deep loyalty to Thom's memory.
  4. Thom Merrilin, Master Merrilin - Though not physically present, his past as Queen's Court-bard and dramatic fall from grace is discussed extensively.
  5. Queen Morgase - Though not present, is discussed regarding her past relationship with Thom Merrilin and her role in his exile.
  6. serving maids, cook - Serves food to Rand and Mat, polishes candlesticks, and shows particular interest in Rand.
  7. Lady Moiraine, Mistress Alys, Moiraine Sedai - Referenced in discussions about finding her and the others in Caemlyn.
  8. Gareth Bryne - Mentioned as having pursued Thom Merrilin on Queen Morgase's orders.
  9. Loial, son of Arent son of Halan - Shares extensive knowledge about Ogier history and groves, expresses disappointment about changes in human cities, and requests to travel with Rand while sharing insights about ta'veren.

Takeaways

  1. Rand meets Loial, a young Ogier (90 years old) who left his stedding without permission to see the world's ancient groves built by his people.
  2. Loial reveals that Rand is ta'veren, meaning the Pattern of fate bends around him and forces other threads of life to swirl around his actions.
  3. Rand finally opens up about his journey and troubles to someone, telling Loial about the Trollocs, Fades, and Darkfriends pursuing them, though he stops himself before revealing too much about his dreams.
  4. The conversation reveals that many of the ancient Ogier groves have been destroyed or forgotten, including the one that once existed in Caemlyn where they now sit.
  5. Though Loial requests to travel with Rand to Tar Valon, Rand reluctantly declines due to the dangers involved, but agrees to spend time with him while in Caemlyn.