Back at the inn, all the protagonists are finally reunited. When the others learn Mat is feeling unwell, the Emond Fielders immediately go to him. Mat behaves strangely, suspicious of everyone and saying hurtful things to the women.

When Moiraine joins them, she senses that Mat is carrying Mashadar’s taint and finds out about the dagger he took. She is surprised Mat is still alive. She is able to isolate the taint, but for true healing, Mat needs to go to Tar Valon.

The group, minus Mat who is still feeling unwell, meet Loial. While they talk and catch up, several protagonists realize they have heard the same unusual message from three completely different sources. There is a threat to the Eye of the World and the Dark One plans to stop time.

After hearing the message, Moiraine realizes they need to change their plans and head to the Eye of the World, a magical place in the Blight. However, their destination is far away and the only way to reach it quickly is through magical pathways, called the Ways. The Ogier built them and Loial can access and navigate them.