The latest episode of Wheel of Time introduces a new faction that could shape the Dragon Reborn’s destiny.
Wheel of Time Season 3 is Quietly Setting Up a Game-Changing Ally
We’re testing a new site: This is how the Wheel of Time Season 3 story might look. Subscribe to the new NPR.org and let us know what you think. Much of this season has explored the machinations of the Aiel, and Rand’s destiny as the Car’a’carn, but a new set of allies is also being quietly woven into the narrative. The Sea Folk’s arrival could lead to a sea change in the power and alliances that shift as the Dragon Reborn races toward the Last Battle.
Who Are the Sea Folk, and Why Do They Matter?
The Sea Folk, or the Atha’an Miere, are a seafaring folk with their own distinct culture and beliefs — and a prophecy that directly ties into Rand’s fate. They have been referenced in passing before, but this is their first full appearance in the series. They are ruled by the Mistress of the Ships, and also have their own channelers of the One Power.
In Robert Jordan’s books, the Sea Folk believe in the Jendai Prophecy, which speaks of the Coramoor—a figure who will bring them great change and lead them into a new era. Interestingly, the Coramoor is none other than Rand al’Thor himself. Their prophecy even suggests upheaval within the White Tower and the fall of the Stone of Tear, events that could further shake up the already unstable world of Wheel of Time.
What This Means for Rand’s Journey
Rand’s tours of duty already include prophecies and responsibilities galore, but the introduction of the Sea Folk makes smooth sailing reflect that the one that’s supposedly a Dragon Reborn is destined far beyond what has already been imagined by his companions. And as he’s trying to unite the Aiel and accept his destiny, the Sea Folk’s faith in the Corramoor might provide an additional feature to his expanding mythology.
The Sea Folk’s role is one whose specifics are unpredictable, since the show does sometimes make small tweaks from the books. If the series follows the source material, though, fans can expect an alliance between Rand and the Sea Folk in the series’ future. Such an alliance would provide significant political and military benefits in the lead-up to the Last Battle.
When Will Rand See the Sea Folk?
Although no date for Rand’s official alliance to the Sea Folk has been confirmed, Season 3’s introduction of the Sea Folk indicates that the moment might be on the horizon. In the books, their first major interaction is in The Shadow Rising, one of the novels that heavily informs this season. If we’re following this plot line to a tee, we could be looking at the show guiding the path to forging an alliance between Rand and the Sea Folk before the conclusion of the season.
With Wheel of Time branching out all the time, having the Sea Folk in the mix is yet another thrilling layer to the show’s already complex narrative. As the Last Battle approaches, every ally and prophecy will matter in the struggle to save the world.
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