Note: This article contains SPOILERS for The Wheel of Time Season 3, Episode 7, along with minor references to the book series.
A Shocking Turn of Events in The Wheel of Time
The recent episode of The Wheel of Time, particularly Season 3, Episode 7, introduced a significant plot twist that may change the trajectory of the series. During the intense Battle of the Two Rivers, a conflict involving the local villagers, the Children of the Light, and the ominous Trollocs, fans witnessed the unexpected demise of Loial, the beloved ogier who became an integral part of the main group.
Despite Loial’s ogier traits that mirror certain aspects of the Trollocs, he possesses full consciousness and a profound curiosity about the lore within The Wheel of Time. This depth of character made him an invaluable source of exposition, a role that his absence will make keenly felt after his heroic sacrifice. Loial met his end while valiantly defending The Ways, aiming to thwart Reinforcements from Padan Fain by destroying the Waygate; a notable deviation from Robert Jordan’s literary narrative, where he survives this act.
Hints of Redemption: Loial’s Legacy from Season 2
Loial as a Potential Hero of This Age
Season 2 of The Wheel of Time laid the groundwork for Loial’s potential return. In a pivotal moment, Mat Cauthon sounded the Horn of Valere, successfully summoning the Heroes of the Horn. This event culminated in a triumphant showdown against Ishamael and the Seanchan at the Battle of Falme. During a conversation between Perrin and Loial, the ogier expressed that the heroes from ages past are merely part of a continuous legacy, stating that they too were heroes in their time. Given that all five primary characters from the Two Rivers are considered ta’veren, this opens the door for Loial’s resurrection as one of these legendary figures.
Enigmatic Possibilities: The Return of the Heroes of the Horn
Expected Comebacks in the Final Confrontation
Notably, the Heroes of the Horn are not merely a fleeting element; they appear multiple times throughout the book series. Their most crucial role comes during the Last Battle, where they lend their strength against the Dark One’s minions. The show’s recent exploration of Tel’aran’rhiod, especially through Egwene’s Dreamwalker abilities, suggests that there are numerous opportunities to reintroduce these figures earlier than expected. It is highly likely that audiences will witness Loial returning, fighting valiantly alongside our heroes in the ultimate confrontation.