Chapter 53 - Gateways
Summary
Pevara and Javindhra tour the Black Tower with Mazrim Taim, who demonstrates his fortified defenses and announces strict control over all comings and goings before hinting at his awareness of White Tower internal politics. Realizing they are trapped, Pevara attempts to weave a gateway but fails, confirming their confinement while growing concerned over Javindhra's erratic loyalty. Meanwhile, Perrin bids farewell to Matrim Cauthon, Thom Merrilin, and Noal as they depart for the Tower of Ghenjei to rescue Moiraine, then steps through a gateway to join the massive coalition gathering at the Field of Merrilor. He organizes his diverse forces, receives apologies from Two Rivers men regarding past rumors, and watches allied armies march alongside Whitecloaks and Mayeners. Mat, Thom, and Noal navigate the Tower of Ghenjei's shifting corridors by drawing entry triangles, using dice to choose paths, and countering an Eelfinn's hypnotic influence with music until they reach a vast chamber of glass columns and upward-flowing steam.
Characters
- Pevara — Realizes Taim has locked down the Black Tower and attempts to weave a gateway but fails, confirming they are trapped inside.
- Javindhra — Continues to advocate remaining at the Black Tower despite Pevara's orders to leave, displaying erratic behavior that unsettles her leader.
- Mazrim Taim / Taim — Demonstrates his fortified defenses and announces strict control over all comings and goings, hinting at his awareness of White Tower internal politics.
- Perrin (Lord Goldeneyes) — Bids farewell to Matrim Cauthon and his companions before stepping through a gateway to join the coalition forces gathering at the Field of Merrilor.
- Matrim Cauthon / Mat — Departs with Thom Merrilin and Noal toward the Tower of Ghenjei, relying on dice rolls to navigate its shifting corridors.
- Thom Merrilin / Thom / Thorn — Assists Mat in drawing the entry triangle on the tower's exterior and plays a flute to counter an Eelfinn's hypnotic influence.
- Noal — Carries a lantern and staff into the Tower of Ghenjei, maps their route with charcoal, and uses dice rolls to guide their path through the maze.
- Grady — Opens a gateway for Mat's group and promises to maintain a daily portal at noon for their return.
- Faile — Arrives to confirm camp readiness and discusses the political tightrope Perrin must walk regarding Rand al'Thor's plans.
- Gaul — Accompanies Faile, keeping Bain and Chiad close so he does not have to carry their weapons himself.
- Bain — Carries her spears while following Gaul toward the Field of Merrilor.
- Chiad — Follows alongside Bain, carrying her bow as they prepare for the march.
- Aravine — Organizes the massive refugee and military column through the gateway and secures a campsite away from other forces.
- Sulin — Assists Aravine in selecting a secure location for Perrin's army near the Field of Merrilor.
- Berelain — Rides alongside Galad Damodred, appearing deeply engrossed in conversation with him as their armies march together.
- Galad Damodred / Galad — Leads his Whitecloak forces in perfect formation toward the coalition camp, showing little hostility since the trial.
- Gallenne — Rides behind Berelain at the head of Mayene's Winged Guard, lances held high with polished armor and red streamers.
- Alliandre — Commands her heavy cavalry in a tight eight-wide formation, riding sidesaddle in a maroon gown as she salutes Perrin.
- Arganda — Leads Alliandre's column through the gateway, calling out orders and returning Perrin's salute.
- Azi — Carries the wolfhead banner while marching with the Two Rivers contingent toward the Field of Merrilor.
- Jori Congar / Jori — Approaches Perrin to apologize for past rumors about Berelain, reaffirming his loyalty before running off.