Chapter 22 - A Path Chosen

Summary

Perrin awakens in a cedar copse along the Arinelle River, initially disoriented by his dream of Emond's Field before realizing he is alone and separated from the rest of the group. Using his tracking skills, he follows a hoofprint downriver and discovers Egwene and her horse Bela waiting safely by a fire. After a brief reunion, they discuss their predicament; Egwene suggests that Moiraine and Lan are likely heading to Whitebridge, but Perrin argues that they should instead proceed to Caemlyn to avoid the Fades' expected search patterns. Egwene agrees to his plan, and they prepare to leave together after Perrin extinguishes their fire.

Characters

• Perrin — Perrin wakes up under a pile of cedar branches, recovers his axe, and tracks hoofprints downriver to find Egwene and Bela. He proposes a plan to travel to Caemlyn rather than waiting or heading straight to Whitebridge, which Egwene accepts, and he begins to lead the way.
• Egwene — Egwene is found waiting by a fire with Bela after swimming across the river. She shares her food with Perrin and listens as he outlines a new plan to go to Caemlyn, ultimately agreeing to follow his lead.
• Bela — Bela, the shaggy brown mare, is revealed to have towed Egwene across the river. She stands quietly by Egwene while the two youths discuss their next move and prepare to depart.