ChapterTrack

Chapter 29 - A Trap to Spring

Summary

Siuan Sanche visits the kitchens to conduct a covert inspection, intimidating the staff and temporarily replacing Laras's authority by praising her to the rest of the staff before leaving. Siuan privately informs Nynaeve that Else Grinwell was sent away by Siuan, revealing a trap set by the Black Ajah, but authorizes the women to proceed with their plan to leave for Tear. Siuan explains the nature of Callandor as a powerful sa'angreal that the High Lords of Tear hide to diminish their fear of the One Power, and grants Nynaeve funds for the journey under the pretense of sending her to hoe cabbages. The three Accepted conclude their work and prepare to escape the White Tower.

Characters

  • Nynaeve — Nynaeve works the roasting spit in the kitchens while secretly reporting their findings in the library storeroom to Siuan Sanche. She realizes Else Grinwell was sent away by the Amyrlin, confirming a trap, and asks Siuan about Callandor before preparing to leave Tar Valon.
  • Elayne — Elayne skims grease and bastes meat alongside Egwene and Nynaeve, glaring at Laras until the Amyrlin punishes her for inappropriate language by having her ears seized and her mouth scrubbed with soap.
  • Egwene — Egwene helps baste the roasts and nearly speaks out of turn, prompting the Amyrlin to have her ears pulled and mouth scrubbed with soap, after which she returns to work trembling and relieved to be leaving the Tower.
  • Laras (Mistress of the Kitchens) — Laras, the stout chief cook, initially intimidates the Accepted with her spoon and frowns until Siuan Sanche enters. Siuan publicly commends Laras and formalizes her title, causing Laras to beam with pleasure before returning to her stern management of the kitchen staff.
  • Siuan Sanche (Mother, Amyrlin Seat) — Siuan storms into the kitchen to terrorize the staff into submission, then privately reveals to Nynaeve that she sent no message and that Else Grinwell was sent away on a trading vessel. She authorizes their escape, provides gold, explains the political significance of Callandor to the High Lords of Tear, and praises Laras to maintain appearances.