ChapterTrack

Chapter 18 - To the White Tower

Summary

Egwene and Nynaeve travel on the River Queen toward Tar Valon, where Egwene experiences distressing dreams about Rand's danger while Nynaeve suffers from seasickness and resentment. Upon arrival, the Amyrlin Seat conducts a rigorous and humiliating practical lesson on channeling for Nynaeve, demonstrating her dominance over the One Power before departing with her delegation, leaving the two women to fend for themselves on the dock. They are soon met by Sheriam, the Mistress of Novices, who informs Egwene of her novice status and explains the harsh realities of Aes Sedai training to a shocked Nynaeve before leading them into the White Tower city.

Characters

  • Egwene (novice, child) — Egwene travels on the River Queen, worrying about dreams of Rand's danger and receiving a stern but encouraging channeling lesson from the Amyrlin Seat. Upon reaching Tar Valon, she is assigned to novice training by Sheriam and follows her into the city, where Sheriam promises to see them settled in their rooms.
  • Nynaeve (Wisdom) — Nynaeve suffers from seasickness and a heated exchange with the Amyrlin Seat regarding her channeling potential. After being forcibly restrained and shielded during a lesson, she arrives in Tar Valon shocked to learn she is to be an Accepted rather than a full sister.
  • The Amyrlin Seat (Mother, Amyrlin Seat) — The Amyrlin Seat arrives in Tar Valon with her delegation and provides a private, physically intense lesson on the use of the One Power to Nynaeve, demonstrating abilities such as shaping air and shielding. Sheriam meets the two women on the wharf and takes charge of their arrival.
  • Leane — Leane accompanies the Amyrlin Seat from the ship to the dock, carrying a flame-tipped staff and remaining at the Amyrlin's side during the landing.
  • Sheriam (Mistress of Novices) — Sheriam, an Aes Sedai with fiery red hair, meets Egwene and Nynaeve on the wharf after the Amyrlin's departure. She clarifies Egwene's status as a novice and informs Nynaeve of the rigorous training awaiting the Accepted, then leads them toward the White Tower.