Chapter 41 - A Hunter’s Oath

Summary

The Snow Goose docks in the marsh-ringed harbor of Illian, where Perrin observes the tanning yards and bird life while enduring the cold silence of a displeased Moiraine. As the group disembarks, Zarine Bashere boldly declares her intention to follow them to Tear, claiming she sees the 'strange trail' they leave behind. Moiraine accepts her company only on the condition that Zarine swear a Hunter’s oath of obedience and silence, threatening to cut her from the Pattern if she endangers their mission. Moiraine then assigns responsibility for the new companion to Perrin, who reluctantly hoists her onto his saddle before the group rides into the city toward their next destination.

Characters

• Perrin / Perrin Aybara (blacksmith, big man) — Perrin stands on the deck observing the marshes and tanneries of Illian, trying to ignore Moiraine’s disapproval. He reluctantly allows Zarine to ride behind him on Stepper after she swears an oath to Moiraine, complaining internally about his new responsibility.
• Moiraine (Aes Sedai, Moiraine Sedai) — Moiraine sits atop Aldieb, issuing a stern ultimatum to Zarine that she must swear a Hunter’s oath of obedience and silence to continue with them. She threatens to sever a thread from the Pattern if Zarine causes harm, then delegates Zarine’s care to Perrin.
• Lan (stone-face, stone-faced Warder) — Lan rides ahead of the group onto the Illian docks, examining his sword blade and displaying subtle amusement at the tension between the women, though he remains silent about Zarine's oath.
• Loial (Ogier) — Loial emerges from his stifling cabin only after the others have disembarked, rushing onto the dock while trying to don his coat and saddlebags, and mutely mouthing a warning about angering Aes Sedai to Perrin.
• Zarine / Faile (falcon, Hunter of the Horn) — Zarine, insisting she is called Faile, boldly negotiates her place in the group by swearing a Hunter’s oath to Moiraine to heed commands and ask no questions. She then attempts to mount Perrin's horse, requiring him to lift her onto Stepper's back.
• Adarra (Captain, captain) — Captain Adarra directs the docking of the Snow Goose in Illian, whispering orders to the silent crew and offering a formal bow to Moiraine as she steps ashore.
• Stepper — Stepper, Perrin's dun stallion, stands restive on the deck and later takes Perrin and Zarine on the ride into Illian, tossing his head until calmed by Perrin.
• Aldieb — Aldieb, Moiraine's white mare, is saddled by Lan on the dock and later carried Moiraine into the city of Illian.