Chapter 12 - The Amyrlin Seat

Summary

Siuan Sanche paces her study, anxiously awaiting Verin Sedai's arrival and guarding a secret document box. When Verin enters with a leather sack, she reports that Rand al'Thor has proclaimed himself the Dragon Reborn, and Siuan notes that the two false Dragons no longer trouble the world, having been captured or executed around the same time a strange light appeared in the sky. Verin presents the Horn of Valere, explaining that Matrim Cauthon sounded it but is dying from the taint of a Shadar Logoth dagger; if he dies, the Horn's power will be lost until another can sound it. She also warns that the Seanchan may return and use the One Power as a weapon. Siuan dismisses the Seanchan threat as secondary to immediate domestic dangers, orders the Horn hidden, and commands Verin to detail the actions of the three runaway Aes Sedai.

Characters

• Siuan Sanche (Mother, Amyrlin, the Amyrlin Seat) — Siuan paces her ornate study and checks a warded nightwood box before receiving Verin. She expresses relief that the false Dragons have been removed and listens as Verin reveals the location of the Horn of Valere and the dying condition of Matrim Cauthon. Siuan orders the Horn hidden, minimizes the threat of the Seanchan, and demands a full report on the runaway sisters.
• Verin (Daughter, Brown sister) — Verin enters Siuan’s study with a leather sack and delivers urgent news from Falme. She reveals that Rand al'Thor is the true Dragon and presents the Horn of Valere, explaining that Mat Cauthon sounded it but is dying from a Shadar Logoth dagger. She warns Siuan about the potential return of the Seanchan and their use of the One Power in battle, then is asked to report on the actions of the runaway sisters.
• Leane (Keeper, Keeper of the Chronicles) — Leane enters Siuan’s study to announce Verin’s presence and requests leave for her to speak. After Siuan grants the request and dismisses her, Leane bows and exits the room.