Chapter 22 - A Path Chosen

Summary

Perrin al'Vere awakens in a cedar copse after a night of fleeing Shadar Logoth and successfully tracks the hoofprints of horses to find Egwene al'Vere waiting by a small fire with her mare, Bela. After reuniting and sharing dry food provided by Egwene, Perrin outlines a strategic plan to travel inland toward Caemlyn rather than following the river, reasoning that the Shadow forces would anticipate their move toward Whitebridge. Egwene initially suggests Whitebridge as an alternative destination but ultimately agrees to the detour, and the pair prepares to depart, having decided that if Moiraine Sedai does not find them in Caemlyn within a few days, they will proceed to Tar Valon to appeal to the Amyrlin Seat.

Characters

• Perrin — Perrin wakes up under a pile of cedar branches, retrieves his axe, and cautiously surveys the Arinelle River before following horse tracks to find Egwene. He takes charge of their situation, proposing they travel inland to Caemlyn to wait for Moiraine, and initiates the departure by kicking out their fire despite Egwene's protests about his wet clothes.
• Egwene — Egwene waits by a fire with Bela, having successfully crossed the river, and reunites with Perrin. She provides him with dry bread and cheese, listens to his strategic proposal to head to Caemlyn, and agrees to follow his lead while expressing confidence that Moiraine will find them.
• Bela — Bela, the shaggy brown mare, stands beside Egwene and Perrin at the campsite, serving as a source of comfort and cover during their reunion and planning session.