The Fires of Heaven: Chapter 26

Val a'Shain

Characters: Min, Siuan, Leane, Logain, Sheriam, Carlinya, Myrelle, Anaiya

Setting: Salidar

Point of view: Min

For days Min Siuan, Leane and Logain have been travelling south and west of Lugard. Logain's mood had been steadily deteriorating It seems the depression experienced by gentled men has finally caught up with him. Min still sees the aura of glory around him though. With Logain not in the mood to do much of anything Siuan has regained the lead over the company. Siuan didn't think it was necessary to tell Min where exactly they are going.

Leane has not given up on flirting and her tactics have succeeded in getting them shelter and lower bills in inns a number of times. It doesn't seem to help Logain though. Suddenly the woodlands they have been travelling through gives way to a village of surprising size. Min sees Warders and Aes Sedai with images flickering around them constantly. They don't seem to be particularly welcome in the village.

Siuan leads them to a building that must have been an inn once. The inn shows signs of neglect and is decorated with old and mismatched furniture. Four Aes Sedai meet them there, Sheriam, Carlinya, Myrelle and Anaiya. Sheriam recognizes Min and asks what she was thinking bringing Logain here. She also wants to know how Min found them. Min tells them to ask Siuan and Leane. The four Aes Sedai seem to think such changes in appearance can be caused by stilling but still don't trust the two women claiming to be Siuan and Leane. They are put through a thorough questioning before the four Aes Sedai are satisfied they are indeed who they claim to be.

Siuan now tells them she contacted one of her eyes and ears who also worked for the blues and found out about Sallie Daera. Leane adds that even though they can't channel anymore they can still be of use to the Tower. Min and Logain are sent away while the other continue their conversation. Min is offered something to eat and several people come to talk to them but Min still doesn't get the feeling she is welcome in Salidar.

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