Chapter 7 - A Cold Medallion

Summary

Mat Cauthon reacts to the arrival of Seanchan soldiers in Jurador by ordering Noal and Olver to warn Egeanin, the Aes Sedai, Bethamin, and Seta. Tuon questions him about providing guards or warnings for herself, prompting Mat to leave his wagon to assess the situation. He observes hundreds of Seanchan troops efficiently establishing a camp across the road from the traveling show. Three soldiers enter the grounds, where horse handler Bollin attempts to charge them an entry fee. The honey-skinned soldier hesitates before his companions square up, causing all the performers and handlers to arm themselves with clubs in preparation for a confrontation.

Characters

• Mat / Cauthon — Reacts to news of Seanchan troops by ordering Noal and Olver to warn Egeanin and the Aes Sedai, then leaves his wagon to assess the enemy camp across the road.
• Noal — Moves quickly despite his battered appearance to follow orders while questioning Tuon's refusal to answer to her old name before departing with Olver.
• Olver — Receives instructions from Mat to warn the Aes Sedai and Bethamin before departing with Noal to carry out the task.
• Tuon — Questions Mat about providing guards or warnings for herself, then watches him leave with a smile that she finds rewarding despite the risks.
• Selucia — Listens to Mat's orders regarding Egeanin's alias and remains seated in the wagon as the situation outside escalates.
• Egeanin / Leilwin Shipless — Targeted by Mat's orders to be warned about the approaching Seanchan soldiers, though she currently uses an alias and remains unaware of the immediate threat.
• Bollin — A squint-eyed horse handler who attempts to charge the incoming Seanchan soldiers an entry fee with deceptive mildness before a confrontation begins.
• Luca — Arrives at the show entrance wearing a brilliant red coat embroidered with golden stars, joining the other performers in arming themselves against the invaders.
• Petra — A bare-chested performer known for his mild nature who now displays a furious expression as he prepares to defend the grounds.