Chapter 1 - Time to be Gone

Summary

Mat Cauthon waits by the River Eldar outside Ebou Dar, counting Seanchan ships and wrecks while grappling with guilt over the casualties from his recent escape. He reflects on his ta'veren nature, maintains a farmer's disguise, and worries about the lack of alarm following Tuon's kidnapping. Noal Charin fishes nearby before joining him, and Egeanin arrives in a farmer's disguise under the alias Leilwin. The trio walks back toward the city along the Great North Road, passing marching Seanchan soldiers and settlers. Mat recalls the chaotic escape night, worries about being tracked by Seekers, and realizes they are walking directly back into danger as Noal spots a familiar-looking soldier among the troops.

Characters

• Mat / Cauthon — Sits on a mossy boulder by the River Eldar counting Seanchan ships and wrecks, wrestling with guilt over the casualties from his escape and nursing a throbbing hip. He reflects on his ta'veren nature, maintains a farmer's disguise, and worries about the lack of alarm following Tuon's kidnapping.
• Noal / Charin — Fishes off the riverbank while complaining about the cold and seeking company, then walks alongside Mat and Egeanin toward Ebou Dar. He notices a dark-skinned soldier with blue eyes among marching troops, remarking that he has seen someone like him before.
• Egeanin / Leilwin — Arrives in a farmer's disguise complete with a wig and flowered dress to meet Mat, complaining about her lost damane Ser-risa. She insists they maintain the appearance of lovers while walking back toward the city, glaring at passing Seanchan soldiers and farmers.
• Domon — Accompanies Egeanin's group as a so'jhin servant, noted for his shaved head and Illianer features. He takes her reins during the remembered escape night, displaying the stiff-necked arrogance of a hereditary upper servant.