Warning: Spoilers for The Wheel of Time Season 3, Episode 8
The Significance of Mystical Races in The Wheel of Time Season 3 Finale
The highly anticipated finale of The Wheel of Time Season 3 has delved into the depths of its rich lore, revealing the presence of two mystical races within the series’ universe. The season’s closing episode clarified the eerie vision recently experienced by Min Farshaw, which depicted Mat hanging perilously from a rope. This alarming image was ultimately linked to one of Mat’s fateful wishes granted by the Eelfinn in the Chamber of Bonds.
While the reveal aligns closely with the original book series, its execution was unexpected, especially considering the limited hints earlier in the season regarding the Eelfinn. Mat’s encounter with the Eelfinn mirrors his experiences in Rhuidean from The Shadow Rising, highlighting not only its impact on Mat’s narrative arc but also its significant contributions to the expansive lore of the series. Notably, the introduction of Eelfinn is not the first instance of otherworldly creatures in the source material; that honor goes to the Aelfinn, whose arrival has been notably delayed in this adaptation.
Confirmation of the Aelfinn’s Canonicity
The Existence of “The Snake People”
The season finale opens with a striking scene where Elaida steps through a red ter’angreal doorway, reminiscent of the one Mat would later use. However, it’s important to clarify that Elaida’s interaction differs from Mat’s. Subtitles reveal that Alviarin refers to the being as “Aelfinn,”suggesting that the story’s two mystical races, the Aelfinn and the Eelfinn, are indeed interlinked. Together, they are often referred to as “The Snakes and the Foxes.”
The Aelfinn and Eelfinn dwell in interconnected dimensions, accessible via the red ter’angreal doorways. The finale confirms that communication with the Eelfinn is possible from Tanchico, while access to the Aelfinn is available from Tar Valon, setting the stage for further exploration of these enigmatic races.
The Aelfinn’s Role in Predicting the Future
Advisors of the Future
The dialogue between Alviarin and Elaida in this episode gives a glimpse into the powers of the Aelfinn, which contrast sharply with those of the Eelfinn. Alviarin inquires what the Aelfinn promised Elaida, to which she cryptically responds, “The Amyrlin Seat itself.”This phrase hints at the Aelfinn’s ability to provide insights about the future rather than granting wishes, unlike their Eelfinn counterparts.
In the context of the series, while the Eelfinn provide a set number of wishes, the Aelfinn allow individuals to ask three questions about potential outcomes. For instance, Mat sought the Aelfinn’s counsel about returning to the Two Rivers and was directed to Rhuidean instead—a decision that subsequently led him to engage with the Eelfinn and acquire the invaluable silver foxhead medallion, which protects against the One Power.
The Aelfinn’s responses often appear cryptic, resembling riddles, yet they offer opportunities for clarification through follow-up questions. It’s crucial to ask all three questions, as those who enter their realm must receive a response for each inquiry before they can leave. This nuance bears similarity to the engagements one has with the Eelfinn.
The complexities involved in interacting with the Aelfinn and Eelfinn have inspired a popular children’s game within the universe, delightfully named “Snakes and Foxes,”emphasizing the importance of strict adherence to rules for achieving victory.
The Aelfinn gain foresight not through visions like Min, but by reading the Pattern, determining a person’s path by analyzing their thread. This unique ability transforms their role into one of exchange rather than mere benefaction.
Perils of Engaging with the Aelfinn
High Stakes in Questioning
The risks associated with questioning the Aelfinn are underscored by Alviarin’s cautionary remarks about other Aes Sedai who have ventured through the red ter’angreal doors never to return. Her ominous warning suggests that inquiries directed at the Aelfinn must be articulated with precision and care, as the consequences of vague or inappropriate questions can be dire. The books indicate that the Aelfinn will severely punish those who fail to adhere to their guidelines.
Certain topics, especially ones related to the Dark One, are especially perilous to approach. Previous narratives suggest that individuals who pose inquiries concerning the Dark One risk serious repercussions, including madness or death, making Alviarin’s concerns about lost Aes Sedai in relation to these dark subjects particularly poignant.
Future Implications of the Aelfinn Connection
Anticipating the Aelfinn’s Introduction
Currently, the timeline for the Aelfinn’s more pronounced appearance within the series remains uncertain. Nevertheless, their relevance to the overarching narrative and connection to the character of Elaida—an addition unique to the series—suggests their forthcoming introduction is plausible. With established locations for their realm and a strong presence in Tar Valon, it seems feasible that characters like Elaida—or potentially Moiraine or Verin—might seek to engage the Aelfinn about the future in subsequent seasons of The Wheel of Time.