Chapter 1 - The Flame of Tar Valon

Summary

Rand al’Thor and Lan Mandragoran engage in sword practice atop a tower in Fal Dara, where Rand unexpectedly channels the One Power due to a solidifying wind, leaving him with minor injuries and confusion. Their training is interrupted by the arrival of a grand procession from the south, led by the Amyrlin Seat, which draws their attention. Rand, terrified by the sight of so many Aes Sedai and fearing the consequences of his recent channeling, abandons his practice and flees the tower.

Characters

• Rand / Rand al’Thor — Rand practices sword forms with Lan, struggling to maintain the void in his mind. He accidentally channels the One Power when the wind solidifies, resulting in him being struck by Lan's practice sword and sustaining minor cuts. Terrified by the display of the One Power and the approaching Aes Sedai, he panics and runs away.
• Lan / Lan Mandragoran (the Warder, Lord of the Seven Towers, Lord of the Lakes, uncrowned King of Malkier, al’Lan) — Lan spars with Rand, effortlessly striking him with a practice sword. He explains the history of heron-marked swords and urges Rand to leave for Tar Valon. He observes the approach of the Amyrlin Seat's procession with serious demeanor before retreating into the tower.