Episode 5 of Season 3 of "The Wheel of Time" unfolds with a mesmerizing scene, where Moiraine grasps the Sa'angreal, a crystal sphere pulsating with the One Power. The energy swirls around her like a vortex, radiating in every direction with a captivating intensity. However, Lan's swift intervention halts her actions, recognizing the immense power as beyond her control. As the camera sweeps outward, it reveals a spiral pattern of energy encircling Moiraine.
Rand has been officially crowned as a Car'a'carn, a testament to his survival through the trials of the previous episode. Despite Aviendha's wary glances, there is no denying his newfound status. The group finds themselves in a town carved intricately into solid rock, standing as witnesses to Rand's predetermined destiny.
Egwene, on the other hand, is imparted with a prophecy stating that she is destined to "walk the dream." Under the guidance of Melaine, she lies down and learns the intricacies of controlling her dreams. Unbeknownst to her, Selene has been stalking her and brutally chokes her out within the realm of her dreams. Upon Egwene's awakening, Melaine swiftly realizes the presence of a Shadowsouled, another name for the Forsaken, and underscores the narrow escape Egwene had. The gravity of the situation dawns upon her, highlighting the formidable challenge she faces. Furthermore, she is instructed to sleep with the Wise Ones, a separation from Rand that she must endure.
Elsewhere, Moiraine confides in Lan, unraveling her visions. She knows that she will not participate in the Last Battle, believing that her life must be sacrificed for Rand's survival. Her foreknowledge, glimpsed through the Rings during the ethereal sequences of the last episode, is now crystallized in her mind. Yet, her fateful end is not imminent.
Meanwhile, in her chambers, Siuan receives a note, which she sniffs suspiciously before placing it in a box on her desk. Subtle hints suggest that it originates from Moiraine. However, her solitude is soon shattered by Elaida's entrance, who mocks Siuan's lack of refinement and laments the Tower's decline from its former glory.
Elaida, unwavering in her directness, openly advocates for a vote within the Hall, boldly branding Siuan as "river trash." She further casts aspersions on Siuan's apparent fondness for Moiraine, reinforcing the immutable nature of people before abandoning her to ponder her fate. Seeking counsel, Siuan turns to Verin and, along with Leane, they deliberate their next course of action. Leane astutely surmises that if Elaida discovers her sisters imprisoned in the 13th Depository, she might embark on a rescue mission—or worse, eliminate them. Determined to set a trap, Siuan plans to ultimately decapitate Elaida's reign and put an end to this coup.
Remarkably, the plan appears to unfold as intended, drawing Elaida into the basement where she confronts Joiya and Amico. However, her demands for the revelation of the Black Ajah's identity are no mere idle threats. As Joiya endures torture, a shadowy assassin materializes, plunging a blade repeatedly into Elaida's abdomen. The assailant is revealed to be a Gray Man, sent to permanently silence the Sisters, suggesting the presence of a Black Ajah operative still lurking within the Tower. When Siuan arrives on the scene, she reluctantly concedes her misjudgment.
Elsewhere, Nyn and Mat venture to Tanchico in search of passage across the sea. They find themselves confined to a modest cabin deep within the ship, where Nynaeve battles seasickness. Impatient, Mat yearns for action, but Elayne steadfastly reminds him of their agreement with the Sea Folk, insisting they honor their deal and remain confined.
Mat defiantly ignores the advice and proceeds regardless, his resolve unshaken. Despite the overt breach of protocol, the overwhelming seasickness acts as a persuasive force, convincing the others to remain ashore. Min, having stealthily boarded the ship, accompanies them. Troubled by vivid visions of Mat, one particularly haunting where he's suspended by his neck in his bed, she insists that fate can be thwarted, yet uncertainty lingers. Her experience with Liandrin Sedai strengthens her argument to stay close to the group.
An intriguing revelation unfolds: the Windfinders, powerful Channelers on board, are enhancing the vessel's speed. The Sailmistress interrogates Egwene about her bond with the Source, demanding a solemn vow of secrecy concerning their mission, which Egwene, along with Nynaeve, solemnly pledges. As their journey progresses, the group finally arrives in Tanchico.
Meanwhile, in the Two Rivers, Perrin discovers that the Whitecloaks are gearing up for a march. Amidst a dense fog, he joins the others in a daring mission to rescue a captive family. Alanna bravely draws fire as a distraction, sustaining a hail of arrows from the Whitecloaks. Maksim appears to save her but is also felled by a rain of arrows.
Within the camp, Perrin orchestrates the family's escape, engaging in a fierce skirmish with Dain and others.
Elsewhere, Moiraine engages Egwene in a heartfelt conversation about her dream-walking abilities, urging her to assist in delivering a crucial message. Egwene, agreeing to lend her aid, ventures into Siuan's dreams. Moiraine emphasizes the necessity for the White Tower to align with Rand or face defeat in the Last Battle. Their mutual affirmation is reinforced with a tender kiss, yet Moiraine keeps her own visions of mortality concealed.
As the episode draws to a close, Egwene's dreams intensify, culminating in a vision of Rand and Selene sharing a passionate kiss.
