Chapter 39 - In the Three-fold Land

Summary

Aviendha runs through the Three-fold Land at night, finding solace in its familiar harshness compared to the corrupting softness of the wetlands. She establishes a camp, cooks a meal, and reflects on her restored purpose as a Wise One and her future role alongside Rand al'Thor in the Last Battle. Her solitude is interrupted by the sudden appearance of Nakomi, a mysterious middle-aged woman who shares water and tea while posing philosophical questions about Aiel destiny, toh, and the purpose of their customs after the coming war. After Nakomi magically prepares food and vanishes without a trace, Aviendha spends the night pondering the implications of her people's future before finally sleeping.

Characters

• Aviendha — She finds psychological restoration by running through the Three-fold Land and rejects the perceived softness of wetlander life. After setting up camp and reflecting on her duties as a Wise One, she encounters Nakomi, whose questions about Aiel destiny force her to confront uncertainties regarding her people's future purpose after the Last Battle.
• Nakomi — She appears unexpectedly at Aviendha’s camp without weapons or channeling ability and shares water and tea. Through conversation, she challenges Aviendha’s assumptions about Aiel customs and toh, magically preparing food before vanishing into the night, leaving her companion deeply unsettled but thoughtful.