Chapter 1 - The Flame of Tar Valon

Summary

Rand al’Thor and his Warder, Lan Mandragoran, engage in sword practice atop a tower in Fal Dara, where a sudden supernatural wind causes Rand to manifest a physical wound, alarming Lan. Their conversation shifts to the origin of Rand’s heron-marked sword, Lan’s status as the last Lord of Malkier, and Rand’s emotional attachment to his friends and Moiraine. The training is interrupted by the sight of a grand procession entering the city, led by Lord Ingtar and bearing the Flame of Tar Valon, revealing the personal arrival of the Amyrlin Seat, which terrifies Rand into fleeing the scene.

Characters

• Rand / Rand al’Thor (sheepherder) — Rand practices sword forms with Lan on a tower top, during which a solidified wind inflicts real gashes on his chest. He worries about his heron-marked sword, his impending departure, and his feelings for Egwene, but is shaken by the arrival of the Amyrlin Seat's procession and flees the tower.
• Lan / Lan Mandragoran (Warder, Lord of the Seven Towers, Lord of the Lakes, uncrowned King of Malkier) — Lan trains Rand, explaining the history of Aes Sedai-made weapons and his heritage as the uncrowned King of Malkier. He notes Rand's hesitation to leave and observes the approaching Aes Sedai procession, warning Rand before disappearing into the tower.
• Ingtar — Ingtar is seen leading a column of mounted men and women, along with a palanquin and drummers, emerging from the forest and entering Fal Dara on behalf of the Amyrlin Seat.