Chapter 16 - The Subject of Negotiations

Summary

Egwene al'Vere and Lord Gareth Bryne observe seven riverships arriving at Tar Valon to enlist under High Captain Chubain, with Gareth urging an immediate assault via gateway that she firmly refuses to prevent a street war from destroying the White Tower. Riding back through the snow-covered countryside toward her camp, Egwene meets privately with Gray Sitter Delana, who warns her of gossip regarding Gareth as a potential Warder and reveals that several Hall members are quietly discussing negotiations with Elaida. The council of sisters reacts with shock and anger to the news, but Beonin unexpectedly supports opening talks, arguing that the Forsaken's recent power surge has altered the situation. Egwene grants Beonin permission to approach Varilin and the others on the strict condition that Elaida resign and go into exile, shocking her companions before she orders the group to return to camp as time grows short.

Characters

Egwene al'Vere (Amyrlin, Mother) — Refuses Gareth's proposal to assault Tar Valon via gateway to prevent a bloody street war that would destroy the White Tower. She permits Beonin to open negotiations with Elaida on the strict condition of Elaida's resignation and exile, shocking her council.
Gareth Bryne (General, Lord Gareth) — Observes seven riverships arriving to enlist for Elaida and urges Egwene to assault the city immediately using gateways, arguing delay only increases casualties. He maintains a calm demeanor while managing her emotional distress and organizing the escort's security.
Daishar — Stamps a hoof in the snow and snorts at Egwene's irritation before tossing his head as she prepares to leave the riverbank.
Sheriam (Keeper) — Rides with the council and reacts with anger and fear when Delana reveals talk of negotiations with Elaida, later catching a fainting Beonin. She is noted as being set by the Ajahs to watch Egwene.
Delana (Sitter, Gray Sister) — Privately warns Egwene about gossip regarding Gareth as a potential Warder and informs her that several Hall members are quietly discussing negotiations with Elaida. She orchestrates the revelation to test Egwene's reaction and claims she can provide enough support to stop it if needed.
Anaiya (Blue Sister) — Dryly dismisses the idea of negotiation, stating Elaida has made her position clear and that this is a war to the knife for Blues. She shouts loudly against Beonin's proposal.
Carlinya (White Sister) — Tosses her head irritably and flushes with heat, insisting Elaida cannot possibly believe they will accept anything less than crawling back to her.
Myrelle (Green Sister) — Glances at Delana for the situation and expresses dark disbelief that Faiselle would support negotiations, noting her normally sound judgment.
Nisao (Yellow Sister) — Insists Magla cannot truly mean it due to Romanda's tight control over her, though she peers anxiously at the others during the debate.
Beonin (Gray Sister) — Unexpectedly supports opening negotiations with Elaida, arguing conditions have changed due to the Forsaken's power surge. She receives Egwene's permission to approach Varilin and others but faints from shock when given the strict condition of Elaida's exile.
Morvrin — Scowls at the mention of Takima liking her own voice and later catches the fainting Beonin, slapping her face to revive her while muttering under her breath.
Jori — Manages to loom over Morvrin despite being shorter, standing close to his Aes Sedai during the ride.
Sarin — Stays extremely close to Nisao, appearing to loom over her diminutive form as part of the protective ring around the sisters.
Setagana — Rides close to Anaiya, almost managing to surround her by himself while forming the protective cluster.
Tervail — Uses his bold nose and scarred face to help form a protective ring around Beonin during the ride.