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Summary

Elayne attempts to glean information about Rand from Nadere and Dorindha but learns little beyond his survival and general direction southeast. The Aiel women persistently urge her to secure a midwife, prompting Essande to suggest a local herbalist. Aviendha returns in traditional garb to present Elayne with a blunt dagger as a protective farewell gift before preparing to depart with her clan. Elayne reciprocates by gifting two angreal for future use, leading to an emotional embrace and the exchange of Aiel blessings. After the Aiel women vanish through a gateway, Elayne feels profound solitude but is reminded of her responsibilities when Essande places the Daughter-Heir's coronet upon her head.

Characters

• Elayne (my Lady, Daughter-Heir) — Struggles to extract information about Rand from the Aiel women and reluctantly agrees to find a midwife despite her reservations. Shares an emotional farewell with Aviendha, gifting two angreal before the departure, then feels the weight of solitude and duty as she is crowned with the Daughter-Heir's coronet.
• Nadere — Urges Elayne to acquire a midwife immediately and argues heatedly with Dorindha about Aviendha potentially facing punishment for their delay. Insists on departing immediately to avoid the strap.
• Dorindha — Calmly counters Nadere's arguments regarding Aviendha's potential punishment and urges immediate departure, though tight eyes suggest prior tensions. Lays hands on the sisters' shoulders to enforce their farewell.
• Essande — Suggests a knowledgeable midwife for Elayne and secretly listens to the Aiel women's discussion while pretending to dust. Returns to place the Daughter-Heir's coronet on Elayne's head, reminding her of her political standing.
• Aviendha — Returns in Aiel garb with a blunt dagger as a protective farewell gift and prepares to leave with her clan. Shares a deeply emotional embrace with Elayne, accepts two angreal for future use, and exchanges traditional blessings before departing via gateway.
• Sephanie — Pauses in hanging up Aviendha's dress to curtsy, then watches the farewell with fascination while serving meals earlier.
• Naris — Clears Elayne's dishes and gapes openly at the Aiel women during their animated discussion and emotional exchange.