Chapter 2 - Saidin

Summary

Perrin and Min discuss a violent death foreseen by Min for the Tuatha’an woman Leya, who has arrived at the hidden camp. Loial explains the nature of ta’veren to Min, clarifying how the Pattern tugs at those close to Rand, Mat, and Perrin. Rand emerges from Moiraine’s hut and is greeted by the Shienaran guards before retreating to a secret rocky vale. There, Perrin finds Rand struggling with his destiny and the pull of Saidin, the male half of the True Source. Rand inadvertently causes a violent earthquake while trying to reach for the Source, which he then releases. He admits to Perrin that he feels constantly pulled by Saidin and the Dark One, and questions the validity of his dreams before Perrin leaves him alone.

Characters

• Perrin — Perrin warms himself by the fire and discusses Min’s vision of Leya’s death, deciding he cannot prevent it but wondering if it signals a camp attack. He listens as Loial explains ta’vearen to Min, then finds Rand in a secluded rocky vale where he witnesses Rand’s struggle with the pull of Saidin and an accidental earthquake caused by Rand’s power.
• Min — Min stands by the fire and tells Perrin she foresees Leya’s violent death, though she cannot say when. She complains to Loial about being dragged along by Aes Sedai and ta’veren, and asks if Loial’s travel is also due to the Pattern, before expressing her frustration with her lack of control over her own life.
• Loial (Ogier) — Loial interrupts Perrin and Min to ask about the Tuatha’an, then explains the mechanics of ta’veren and the Pattern to Min, noting that those close to them are tugged along. He reveals he is keeping notes on his friends, including Rand, and notes that he left the stedding without the Elders' permission because he wanted to see the groves Ogier planted.
• Rand (Dragon Reborn) — Rand emerges from Moiraine’s hut, receives the respect of the Shienarans, and retreats to a secluded vale. He confesses to Perrin his fear of the taint on Saidin and his frustration with Moiraine’s guidance. He accidentally triggers a massive earthquake while trying to reach for the One Power, which he releases before admitting he feels constantly pulled by the Source and the Dark One.
• Leya (Tuatha’an woman) — Leya arrives at the camp and dismissively ignores the Dragon banner to demand to see Moiraine immediately. She hands her reins to Perrin, asking him to ensure her horse is fed, and hurries up the slope to Moiraine’s hut, where she is presumed to be meeting with Moiraine and Lan.
• Uno (Shienaran) — Uno leads the Shienaran escorts in greeting Rand with deep respect, calling him Lord Dragon and offering their honor to serve, while Rand ignores them and retreats into the trees.
• Masema (Shienaran) — Masema stands with the other escorts as Rand appears, his eyes shining with utter devotion to the Dragon Reborn as he awaits commands.