Warning: this article contains spoilers for The Wheel of Time book series after The Dragon Reborn and for season 2 of The Wheel of Time TV show.
Amazon’s adaptation of The Wheel of Time recently concluded its thrilling second season, culminating in a dramatic climax where Rand al’Thor, the Dragon Reborn, confronts and kills Ishamael, known as the Betrayer of Hope. Anticipation for season 3 is high, especially with hints of an “absolutely bananas”opening that will see Rand continue his fateful journey towards the Last Battle against the Dark One. However, the series owes its popularity not just to these grand, powerful characters, but also to its rich tapestry of fascinating individuals with their own unique destinies.
While some changes made in the show compared to Robert Jordan’s original novels have sparked debate among fans, many alterations also pave the way for exciting narrative possibilities in future seasons. As we look forward to season 3, it’s essential to examine the potential impact of secondary characters whose roles and decisions may significantly shape the unfolding story.
10 Basel Gill
Played by Darren Clarke
Basel Gill, the steadfast owner of the Light’s Blessing Inn located in Tar Valon, played a crucial role by providing refuge to Rand and Mat, especially during Mat’s battle with the deadly dagger’s curse from Shadar Logoth. A close ally of Thom Merrilin and a loyal Tar Valoner, Gill dutifully assisted Moiraine as she sought to save Mat from peril. This seemingly simple innkeeper might still hold significant influence over the heroes’ journey.
Gill’s storyline in the series diverges notably from the books, where he is the owner of the Queen’s Blessing Inn in Caemlyn. There, he displayed unwavering loyalty to Queen Morgase Trakand. Following her deposition, Gill’s allegiance could redefine his role, as he may join forces with the army led by Perrin Aybara.
9 Masema Dagar
Played by Arnas Fedaravicius
Masema Dagar is a skilled Shienaran soldier who survived the brutal Battle of Falme. Known for his spirituality, he prayed for the fallen soldiers after encountering a caravan slain by Darkfriends. His arc in the series is just beginning, as his experiences during Rand’s confrontation with Ishamael lead him down a dangerous path.
Overwhelmed by the events at Falme, Masema abandons his fellow soldiers and becomes a wandering preacher. His fervent preaching about the Dragon Reborn and his subsequent actions contribute to the chaos in Ghealdan, eventually earning him the title of Prophet of the Dragon. His radical transformation culminates in him leading a fanatical army that wreaks havoc under Rand’s name. However, his descent into madness, possibly influenced by a Forsaken, leads him to view Perrin Aybara as an enemy. Ultimately, he meets his end at the hands of Perrin’s wife, Faile, preventing further bloodshed.
8 Joia Byr
Played by Joelle
As an Aes Sedai of the Gray Ajah, Joiya Byir plays a role in the training of novices and Accepted. Her involvement with the Amyrlin Seat’s entourage during a diplomatic mission to Cairhien showcases her political acumen and manipulative skills. During this trip, she expresses concerns about a newly identified False Dragon in Saldaea, who appears to be a stronger channeler than Logain.
Notably, If season 3 stays true to the source material, Joiya will be revealed as a member of the Black Ajah. This secretive faction within the Aes Sedai is dedicated to serving the Shadow, and Joiya’s machinations for undermining the White Tower will become evident. After the Battle of Falme, Joiya and several other Black Ajah members flee, stealing valuable ter’angreal and setting themselves up in the Stone of Tear.
The plot thickens when Nynaeve, Egwene, and Elayne attempt to confront the Black Ajah. Although they manage to capture Joiya, their victory is short-lived as the Stone comes under attack, leading to Joiya and her associate Amico’s demise at the hands of a fearsome creature known as Slayer. Her deceptive presence symbolizes the danger lurking within the White Tower.
7 Bain
Played by Ragga Ragnars
Bain emerges as a fierce Aiel warrior introduced in episode 7 of season 2. Along with her spear-sister Chiad, she joins Perrin and Aviendha during their journey to Falme. A warrior of the Far Dareis Mai, Bain is skilled in battle and displays remarkable strength against the Seanchan invaders.
The Aiel possess their own prophecies, notably searching for the Car’a’carn, a leader destined to guide them from the harsh Three-Fold Land. Bain and her kin firmly believe that this prophesied leader will bear a unique mark on both arms— a Dragon.
In the books, Bain and Chiad’s arcs are pivotal as they accompany Perrin back to the Two Rivers to protect Emond’s Field from Whitecloak occupation. Over time, Bain becomes one of Rand’s personal defenders, navigating the intricate balance between her warrior ethos and her protective instincts towards Rand. Her character provides depth to the cultural struggles faced by the Aiel.
6 Bayle House
Played by Julian Lewis Jones
Captain of the riverboat Spray, Bayle Domon embodies the spirit of a simple trader unwillingly entangled in dangerous affairs. His timely visit to Moiraine in Arafel during season 2 links him to significant plot developments, such as selling her a poem connected to the cuendillar Seals.
In the literary version, Domon’s introduction occurs earlier, as he meets Mat, Rand, and Thom during their escape from Trollocs. His journey leads him into a perilous adventure that involves a turbulent marriage to a Seanchan captain and their subsequent escape together, revealing a tapestry of intrigue and fate. Domon’s character is set to blossom as the series progresses, establishing vital connections within the story.
5 Eamon Valda
Played by Abdul Salis
Known for his sadistic tendencies, Eamon Valda is a zealous Questioner in the Children of the Light, notorious for his brutal treatment of Aes Sedai, as demonstrated through his actions in earlier episodes. In season 2, he plays a crucial role alongside Geofram Bornhald during intense confrontations, such as against Perrin and the wolf Hopper.
In the original series, Valda climbs the ranks by eliminating rivals until he becomes the Lord Captain Commander. Using his despotic power, he coerces Queen Morgase into submission before ultimately facing his demise at the hands of Galad Damodred, who seeks to avenge his mother’s honor. This arc presents an intricate interplay of power and morality that is likely to evolve in the TV adaptation.
4 Dain Bornhald
Played by Jay Duffy
Dain Bornhald, the son of Geofram Bornhald, witnesses his father’s death at the hands of Perrin during the Battle of Falme. Driven by revenge, Dain’s character is deeply intertwined with themes of vengeance. While in the literary journey, he only hears of his father’s demise secondhand, the visual medium positions him as a firsthand witness to the tragic event.
His quest for vengeance leads him to request command of a legion of Whitecloaks, aiming to cleanse the Two Rivers of perceived dark influences. However, the narrative sees a shift when Trollocs besiege Emond’s Field, forcing collaboration with erstwhile enemies, including Perrin. Dain’s transformation from vengeance-driven Whitecloak to a more complex character grappling with his actions promises to provide rich storytelling in the series. Fans are eager to see how his character develops in light of these events.
3 Aram
Played by Daryl McCormack
Aram, a dashing member of the Tuatha’an, first encounters Egwene and Perrin during their flight from Shadar Logoth, offering them warm hospitality. His playful charm and questioning nature regarding his family’s pacifist beliefs provide a unique perspective on the complexities of conflict. Aram becomes crucial during an encounter with Whitecloaks, attempting to assist his friends despite facing dire consequences.
As the story progresses, Aram’s narrative takes a darker turn. Following the violent invasion of Trollocs, he rejects the Way of the Leaf and seeks guidance from Perrin to learn the art of combat. His character arc reveals a tragic evolution, as after aligning himself with the zealotry of Masema, he ultimately makes a fateful decision that leads to his demise. Aram’s trajectory reflects the series’ broader exploration of violence, loyalty, and the loss of innocence.
2 Elyas Machera
Played by Gary Beadle
Elyas Machera is a captivating figure known for his golden eyes and profound connection with wolves. This wolfbrother accompanies Lord Ingtar’s company as they pursue Padan Fain and the Horn of Valere. Known as a “sniffer,”Elyas possesses a unique ability to sense violence and malevolence, making him an invaluable ally. His role as a mentor to Perrin is particularly significant as he guides him in understanding his wolfbrother abilities.
In contrast to the books, where Elyas meets Perrin much earlier, the show restructures their encounter. His knowledge and understanding regarding the connection between humans and wolves will undoubtedly play a critical role as Perrin navigates his path. As the series continues, Elyas’ importance as both guide and ally will become increasingly prominent.
1 Hopper
Portrayed by Ka Lupinka
Hopper is a significant wolf companion to Perrin, serving as a guide during his journey of discovery. The wolf’s instinctual protection urges him to disregard Perrin’s instructions, ultimately leading to his tragic demise at the hands of Geofram Bornhald while defending Perrin from Eamon Valda. Hopper’s death carries weight, illustrating the bond between Perrin and the wolf world.
In the original narrative, Hopper meets his fate much earlier during an attempt to rescue Perrin and Egwene from Whitecloak captivity. While the loss is painful, it reinforces the idea that in the realm of Tel’aran’rhiod, the World of Dreams, a wolf’s soul continues to exist, waiting to guide its bondmate. Hopper’s enduring presence in this dream world serves as a reminder of loyalty and sacrifice.
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