Warning: Spoilers for The Wheel of Time season 3, episode 6
The Wheel of Time has taken an unexpected turn by altering Faile’s origin story, which opens new avenues for both character development and plot in future seasons. As Faile Bashere makes her debut this season, her relationship with Perrin Aybara, his primary love interest, is particularly significant. However, Faile’s background, specifically her ties to Saldaea, adds further depth to the overarching narrative, especially as Rand and his allies strive to rally support against the Dark One.
An Insight into Faile’s Revised Backstory
Faile’s Escape from Saldaea
Faile reveals to Perrin in season 3, episode 6 that she originates from a military lineage in Saldaea, where both parents held the rank of general. Shockingly, just a year prior to the current events, Faile discovered that her mother was associated with the Dark One and attempted to convince Faile to pledge her allegiance to him. The confrontation that ensued led to a tragic outcome: her mother killed Faile’s brother, an incident that haunts Faile deeply.
In the wake of this family tragedy, Faile resolved to flee Saldaea, promptly joining the quest for the Horn of Valere, albeit this decision was made before she learned the full realization of her brother’s demise at the hands of her mother.
Contrasting Faile’s Backstory with the Source Material
Parentage and Allegiances
The television adaptation retains the core aspect of Faile’s military family origins, but it diverges significantly in its characterization. In the books, Faile’s father, Davram Bashere, serves as a general; however, her mother, Deira ni Ghaline t’Bashere, is not a Darkfriend. Instead, she is depicted as a supportive spouse and devoted parent. This notable alteration eliminates the narrative of familial betrayal and adds new layers of complexity to her character.
Moreover, the novels establish Faile Bashere as a cousin to Queen Tenobia of Saldaea, a familial tie not yet confirmed in the show’s portrayal. The show’s representation of Deira as a Darkfriend drastically alters the dynamics of the family and could influence future storylines significantly. Despite Faile losing a brother in either scenario, the depth of her grief stemming from guilt is a unique narrative twist exclusive to the show.
Impacts on Future Character Developments
Repercussions for Davram and Deira Bashere
The revelations about Faile’s parents will undoubtedly shape ongoing plots and character arcs in subsequent seasons. Davram Bashere is not only a crucial figure in the novels, debuting in book 5, The Fires of Heaven, but he also evolves to become one of Rand al’Thor’s most reliable military advisors. The unique backstory crafted for him in the series introduces emotional stakes that weren’t present in the literary texts, adding layers to his character from the onset.
Additionally, Deira’s role in the show, though less prominent than Davram’s, will also differ from her portrayal in the books, potentially impacting her interactions with key characters like Rand, Faile, and Perrin, and allowing for richer storytelling.
The Significance of Faile’s Altered Backstory
Deepening Connections: Faile and Perrin
Image via Prime Video
Both the book and show’s narratives share the theme of sibling loss, but the series intensifies Faile’s emotional struggle through her complicity in her brother’s demise. This narrative twist establishes a deeper bond between Faile and Perrin, as he also grapples with the guilt associated with the death of his wife, Laila.
The reasoning behind this adjustment may not extend beyond enhancing the connection between these two characters. Nonetheless, it may also serve as a setup for a complex character arc for Davram Bashere, potentially leading into season 4 and beyond.