Chapter 56 - People of the Dragon

Summary

Mat Cauthon, Rhuarc, and the three captured women join Moiraine in a chamber of the Stone of Tear, where they observe the banner of the Lion and Serpent signaling the city's submission to the Dragon Reborn. Rhuarc reveals that the Aiel are the 'People of the Dragon' by showing the mark of the clan chief on his arm, prompting discussion about the fulfillment of prophecies. Moiraine displays an intact seal of the Dark One's prison, clarifying that the Dark One is not dead, though Egwene suspects Ba'alzamon may have been Ishamael. The gathering is interrupted by Berelain, First of Mayene, who delivers a message from Lanfear claiming Lews Therin, and subsequently invites the Dragon Reborn to dine, leaving the group to grapple with the reality that their victory is only the beginning of a larger conflict.

Characters

• Mat (the Sounder of the Horn of Valere) — Mat observes the crowd from an arrowslit and later stands in the chamber with the group, rolling his eyes at their fixation on seals while trying to comprehend the magical revelations and prophecies. He questions Moiraine about the prophecies and expresses relief that the Stone has fallen, only to be rebuked when he claims the Dark One is dead. He remains silent as Berelain delivers her message and listens to Moiraine's assertion that his role in the Pattern is far from over.
• Rhuarc — Rhuarc reads from a gem-set book and explains to the group that Aiel men who become clan chiefs are marked on the left arm with the scarlet and gold serpent symbol. He displays this mark to Mat and confirms that the Aiel are the People of the Dragon, though he appears solemn about the implications of this discovery.
• Moiraine (Aes Sedai) — Moiraine sits on a throne-like chair and reveals an intact seal of the Dark One's prison, explaining its significance and the danger of the remaining seals. She firmly corrects Mat's belief that the Dark One is dead and considers Egwene's suspicion that Ba'alzamon might be Ishamael. She ultimately addresses Mat directly, telling him that his role as a ta'veren is far from finished and that nothing is done for him yet.
• Berelain (First of Mayene) — Berelain enters the chamber wearing a coronet and red silk dress, delivering a message from Lanfear claiming ownership of Lews Therin. She coolly inquires about Rhuarc, invites him to dine, and announces her intention to meet the Dragon Reborn before marching out of the room with regal bearing.