Chapter 14 - The Bite of the Thorns

Summary

Siuan Sanche reveals the extent of the damage caused by Liandrin's flight of the Black Ajah to Egwene and Nynaeve, expressing her inability to trust many within the Tower and her reliance on the two women to hunt the remaining traitors. Despite initial shock and objection to their lack of training and authority, Egwene and Nynaeve agree to the dangerous mission to uncover the conspiracy before it can strike again. Siuan provides them with sealed papers granting them Amyrlin authority for emergencies and promises to keep them updated on Matrim Cauthon's condition before dismissing them to their punishments.

Characters

• Siuan Sanche / Siuan (Mother, Amyrlin Seat, Flame of Tar Valon, Watcher of the Seals) — Siuan confides in Egwene and Nynaeve about the severity of the Black Ajah thefts and murders, revealing her isolation and hesitation regarding whom to trust. She tasks the two Accepted with hunting the remaining traitors, providing them with sealed warrants of authority and promising updates on Mat's condition before ordering them to leave.
• Egwene (Accepted) — Egwene listens in shock as Siuan reveals the Black Ajah conspiracy and the mission to hunt them. She struggles with the lack of time for her duties but ultimately agrees to join Nynaeve in the hunt, asserting her maturity to Nynaeve before accepting the Amyrlin's warrant.
• Nynaeve (Accepted) — Nynaeve questions Siuan's motives and the feasibility of their mission, initially trying to refuse on behalf of Egwene. Realizing the danger of the Black Ajah, she volunteers herself, prompting Egwene to volunteer as well to hunt the traitors, both expressing relief at not having to wait passively for the truth.