Chapter 4: The Gleeman

Thom Merrilin, a white-haired gleeman in a patched cloak, comes out of the Winespring Inn grumbling about his welcome. He juggles for the small crowd that gathers and rattles off the tales he can tell, then names Egwene as his assistant for the festival.

When Moiraine joins the onlookers, Thom breaks off mid-performance. He bows to her, wary, and retreats inside as soon as the Council emerges. Nynaeve trades sharp words with Bran al'Vere on her way past, leaving the Council shaken.

Tam tells Rand the war in Ghealdan poses no real threat to the Two Rivers, but the Council will set watches on the Taren and the borders just in case. He insists they head back to the farm at once. Mat wants to ride with the patrols, and the boys agree to take the black-cloaked rider to the Mayor tomorrow with more witnesses.

On the road home, Tam reveals he believes Rand now: two other lads have reported the same stranger. Rand keeps an arrow nocked as they go, less afraid knowing the village will know to watch.