Chapter 4: The Gleeman

Thom Merrilin, a white-haired gleeman in a cloak of colorful patches, emerges from the Winespring Inn complaining about his reception. He entertains Rand, Mat, Perrin, and Egwene with juggling and promises of stories about heroes, legends, and ages past.

When Moiraine appears, she and Thom exchange guarded words, and he seems wary of her.

The Village Council concludes its meeting; Tam tells Rand they see no immediate danger from the war but will set up patrols along the borders. Tam also reveals that other young men—Jon Thane's son and Bandry Crawe—have seen the black-cloaked rider, so the Council now believes the reports. Rand and Tam head home, with Rand keeping his bow ready in case the mysterious rider appears.