Note: This article contains spoilers for season 3 episode 6 of The Wheel of Time.
The gripping sixth episode of season 3 of The Wheel of Time delves deep into the terrifying side of the One Power, featuring a harrowing confrontation with Moghedien, a Forsaken who employs Compulsion to control Nynaeve and Elayne. This manipulation forces the strong-willed duo to relinquish pieces of the male a’dam, which the ominous Black Ajah and Forsaken intend to use for dominating Rand al’Thor, the Dragon Reborn.
However, amidst these dark themes, the episode also offers lighter moments as Nynaeve, Elayne, Mat, and Min engage with the vibrant culture of Tanchico following their recent adventures with the Sea Folk. For Zoë Robins, who portrays Nynaeve, these scenes present a chance to explore her character’s joys in the richly crafted universe of Robert Jordan. Prior to her unsettling encounter with Moghedien, Nynaeve experiences some of her happiest moments in the series so far.
In an exclusive interview with ScreenRant, Robins shared insights about Nynaeve’s development and her experiences in Tanchico after the events of episode 5. She discussed the nuanced portrayal of Compulsion and reflected on the evolving camaraderie between Nynaeve and Elayne throughout this season.
Zoë Robins on Nynaeve’s Bond With Elayne in Season 3
“They Have ‘Trauma Bonded,’ In A Way”
Image via Prime Video
The dynamic between Nynaeve and Elayne (played by Ceara Coveney) has deepened in the current season, even though, as Robins describes, “they are almost polar opposites.” According to her, the two have “trauma bonded,” sharing a unique connection forged through shared challenges, leading to genuine care and reliance on one another. “They truly value and trust each other,” which is significant for Nynaeve, noted Robins, emphasizing that trust is not something that comes easily to her character. Fortunately, she acknowledged, “Ceara is amazing; it’s a dream working with her.”
Nynaeve’s Evolving Perception of the White Tower
“We See Her Develop A Lot More Respect”
Image via Prime Video
The nature of Nynaeve’s relationship with Elayne allows for significant character growth, especially since they have been assigned by the Amyrlin Seat of the White Tower to expose the dangerous Black Ajah. Robins pointed out that Nynaeve’s previously strained feelings toward the White Tower’s manipulative authority are starting to change, as this important task enhances her rapport with the institution: “Her relationship with the Tower is ever-changing,” the actress noted.
Robins elaborated on Nynaeve’s complex character, saying, “She is fundamentally against authority and hierarchical structures, though she once served as Wisdom in the Two Rivers.” This internal contradiction significantly adds to her character’s depth and attractiveness to audiences. Remarkably, “we see her develop a greater respect for the White Tower and the Aes Sedai in season three.”
Robins’ Season 3 Challenge: Embracing Happiness
“It Was Kind Of Difficult … To Play Joy With Nynaeve”
Throughout this season, Nynaeve’s character interacts with new faces beyond Elayne, including the lively Sea Folk and more time with Mat and Min. Robins expressed her excitement about Nynaeve exploring different dynamics, particularly in the boisterous atmosphere of a Tanchico pub from episode 6. “These moments reveal facets of the characters that we haven’t seen before,” she remarked.
Despite the joy found in these interactions, Robins admitted that portraying Nynaeve’s cheerful side posed a unique challenge. “It was kind of difficult to showcase happiness with her because that’s not something we’ve really explored on the show,” she explained. “I had to figure out what joy looks and feels like for her.”
Yet, Robins believes these moments of levity are well-deserved for Nynaeve, who has faced significant darkness and trauma along with her friends from the Two Rivers. “It was nice to see them enjoying simple pleasures together; Nynaeve truly deserves that,” she stated.
Robins Discusses the Episode’s Most Significant Nynaeve Scene
“My Favorite Scene To Film [In] The Entire Series”
The episode’s most intense moment featured Nynaeve, Elayne, and Moghedien, with the Forsaken using the One Power to control the minds of the Accepted. Robins shared that this was her favorite scene to film throughout the entire series. Despite its serious tension, “we had a lot of fun” during the shoot. She emphasized that the creative process for depicting Compulsion involved collaboration among the actors.
Ultimately, Laia Costa, who plays Moghedien, brought the essence of the scene to life. “Laia just went for it, and she’s phenomenal,” Robins said, admitting that she had to fully embrace Costa’s direction. “The sequence was designed to be eerie and perplexing, and Laia conveyed all those elements flawlessly. I truly hope fans of the book enjoy this interpretation.”
Robins further explored Nynaeve’s character arc as it pertains to her reluctance to engage with the One Power: “Nynaeve doesn’t see this power as something she’s asked for. She was once content as the Wisdom in the Two Rivers, and now she’s far from that path.”
This moment accentuates a pivotal aspect of Nynaeve’s narrative: “Part of her journey involves acknowledging the gifts she possesses, and it remains to be seen whether she is prepared to embrace all that she truly is.”
- Madeline Madden (Episode 5 breakdown)
- Rafe Judkins (Episode 4 breakdown)
- Thomas Napper (Episodes 3 & 4 breakdown)
- Ayoola Smart, Daniel Henney, Ceara Coveney & Sophie Okonedo
- Josha Stradowski & Rosamund Pike
- Rafe Judkins & Natasha O’Keeffe
- Marcus Rutherford & Dónal Finn
New episodes of The Wheel of Time are available every Thursday on Prime Video.