In an intriguing development in The Wheel of Time, the latest episode reveals a crucial understanding of Alanna Mosvani’s controversial actions that have puzzled fans of the book series. This pivotal moment comes before it unfolds on-screen, particularly following a significant deviation in the storyline where the show’s premiere of season 3 introduced the death of Ihvon. Despite this alteration, Alanna’s narrative appears to be following a path reminiscent of her journey in Robert Jordan’s original novels, as she collaborates with Perrin Aybara, Loial, Faile Bashere, Bain, and Chiad to defend the Two Rivers against imminent danger.
Alanna’s engagement in this fight aligns closely with her role in The Shadow Rising, where she provided critical support to Perrin in his clashes against the Whitecloaks and the Trollocs. The notable distinction, however, lies in the absence of her two Warders, which sets up a narrative crescendo that provides a potential rationale for her future decisions regarding Rand al’Thor in later texts.
Alanna’s Unconsented Bonding of Rand in Lord of Chaos
Rand Becomes Alanna’s Warder Without Consent
In the sixth book, Lord of Chaos, Rand’s encounter with Alanna in Caemlyn marks a turning point. When Alanna approached him under the guise of providing rejuvenation through the One Power, she ultimately manipulated this interaction to bind him as her Warder, without his consent. This act infused Rand with anger, as it established a profound, and intrusive, connection where he could sense Alanna’s emotions and presence at any moment.
The bond created between an Aes Sedai and a Warder is traditionally built on mutual consent, but Rand found himself in a position where his autonomy was stripped away. This forced connection persisted throughout the narrative, signifyiing a means for Alanna to maintain oversight and control in a strategic alliance that she deemed necessary to guide Rand toward victory in the Last Battle.
Alanna’s Dialogue with Maksim Sheds Light on Her Intentions
Alanna’s Determination to Prepare for the Last Battle
The recent episode of The Wheel of Time significantly enhances Alanna Mosvani’s character development, especially following her conversation with Maksim in season 3, episode 5. She articulates a firm commitment made upon becoming an Aes Sedai: to ensure readiness for the Last Battle. Alanna’s reflections on her recent skirmish with the Black Ajah indicate her concerns regarding the preparedness of the Aes Sedai. Her vow to bolster their numbers, referring specifically to the inhabitants of the Two Rivers, mirrors her motivations for bonding Rand in Lord of Chaos.
By choosing to bond Rand, Alanna not only aims to enhance the Aes Sedai’s chances in the upcoming confrontation but also seeks a way to actively participate in this significant battle. Ethically speaking, her actions could be viewed as morally ambiguous; however, the practical implications of bonding the Dragon Reborn present a solid argument for her strategy in a time of crisis.
Anticipating Alanna’s Bonding of Rand in the TV Series
Timing of the Bonding: Season 4 Implications
Image via Prime Video
While The Wheel of Time has made significant strides towards depicting Alanna’s most pivotal decision from the books, fans should anticipate that her bonding with Rand may not unfold until at least season 4. Given the established timeline in The Shadow Rising, their paths may not align until later in the series. The show’s current trajectory suggests Rand might remain in the Aiel Waste, making it unlikely for him to encounter Alanna in season 3.
Looking ahead, the feasibility of Alanna bonding Rand will likely hinge on the unfolding of their respective story arcs post-season 3. In the books, Alanna remained in the Two Rivers for an extended period, offering a window for her to complete the bonding if he returns home in the following season. Alternatively, the show may opt to stay true to the source material by facilitating their meeting in Caemlyn, especially with the recent introduction of Rahvin from the Forsaken, positioning Rand’s return there as a plausible scenario.