Chapter 26 - Discord

Summary

In Cairhien, Rand al’Thor and Loial seek out the gleeman Thom Merrilin, who has returned with his apprentice Dena. Rand reveals the discovery of the Horn of Valere and attempts to persuade Thom to join their quest, but Thom refuses, citing his desire for a stable life with Dena and his distrust of the Great Game. After Loial departs, Rand questions Thom about the Karaethon Cycle, learning verses that correspond to his heron brand and potential fate. Thom shares tragic details about his gentled nephew Owyn to dissuade Rand from embracing the One Power, ultimately rejecting the Horn despite its allure. Later, Zera warns Thom to stay out of Cairhien’s political intrigues and marry Dena, reinforcing his decision to remain aloof from Rand’s dangerous mission.

Characters

• Rand / Rand al’Thor (boy, young lord) — Rand rushes to find Thom Merrilin, bringing back the gleeman’s instruments. He reveals the Horn of Valere to Thom and asks him to join the quest, but Thom refuses. Rand then questions Thom about the Karaethon Cycle, hiding his branded palm, and listens to Thom’s warnings about channeling and Cairhien’s politics before leaving the room.
• Loial (son of Arent son of Halan, friend Ogier) — Loial accompanies Rand to meet Thom, reluctantly dressed in his tunic and cloak. He meets Thom formally and sits in Dena’s room before excusing himself to leave Rand and Thom alone to talk.
• Thom / Thom Merrilin (gleeman, old fool) — Thom returns to his room with his instruments, greeting Rand and Loial. He dismisses Dena to speak privately with Rand, refusing the Horn of Valere and expressing disdain for the Great Game. He recounts the death of his nephew Owyn and gives Rand a spare flute before deciding to remain in Cairhien with Dena rather than join the quest.
• Dena (Zera) — Dena sits in her room juggling, initially suspicious of the visitors and demanding they leave items on the table. She is affectionate with Thom, then leaves when commanded, muttering about her knives.
• Zera — Zera appears at Thom’s door, warning him against the Great Game and advising him to marry Dena. She leaves after Thom dismisses her, remaining skeptical of his claim to be uninvolved in political schemes.