The Fires of Heaven

Lore & Background

The book follows Rand al'Thor's campaign to win over the Aiel clans after being recognised as the Car'a'carn in Rhuidean, the schism in the White Tower after Elaida deposes Siuan Sanche, and the Shaido's crossing of the Dragonwall under Couladin.

In Rhuidean, Rand al'Thor confers with the clan chiefs who have accepted him as Car'a'carn on how to win the four remaining clans, and kills attacking Darkhounds with balefire. Egwene al'Vere studies under the Aiel Wise Ones while Moiraine Damodred struggles to gain Rand's trust. In Tanchico, Nynaeve and Elayne learn that the White Tower has split: Elaida, a Red sister, has deposed the Amyrlin Seat Siuan Sanche. The Shaido and their allies follow Couladin across the Dragonwall; Rand pursues with the seven clans that recognise him, survives ambushes by Darkfriends and Shadowspawn, and saves the city of Cairhien, helped by the memories of long-dead generals that the Eelfinn placed in Mat Cauthon's mind. Mat kills Couladin in single combat, while one of the Forsaken attacks Rand from afar during the battle.