In The Wheel of Time season 2, episode 6, Loial's unexpected new talent is revealed. During a gathering of Seanchan, Loial captivates the audience by singing a song and miraculously causing a small tree to blossom. His companion, Ingtar Shinowa, observes this remarkable display with awe.
Treesingers’ Abilities & Origins In The Wheel Of Time Explained
Loial's ability in The Wheel of Time season 2, episode 6, titled "Eyes Without Pity," stands out amidst the numerous remarkable feats accomplished by the Aes Sedai and The Wheel of Time's Forsaken. In a world where extraordinary acts are often performed by channelers of the One Power, the signature ability in Robert Jordan's fantasy world, Loial's inability to channel makes his actions all the more noteworthy. Despite this limitation, what he achieves captures attention and becomes a captivating moment within the series.
While the act of the Seanchan compelling Loial to sing to a tree is not depicted in the novels, the essence of their power is rooted in the original material. Within the pages of the Wheel of Time books, it is established that certain Ogiers possess an ability called Treesinging. These individuals, known as Treesingers, possess the talent to perform the "song of growing," causing trees and other plants to experience accelerated growth. This is precisely the song that Loial is seen executing in "Eyes Without Pity." Hence, the sudden sprouting of leaves and significant growth of the tree in the episode can be elucidated.
Loial Is One Of The Best (& Last) Treesingers
In Ogier society, the primary purpose of Treesinging is to cultivate crops, making it an invaluable skill for sustaining their steddings, which are Ogier settlements. Moreover, this remarkable ability enables them to create "sung wood" – wooden objects that materialize through their melodic chanting. The ancient texts validate that these practices have been deeply ingrained in their culture for centuries, dating back to the Age of Legends. While its origin remains mysterious, the existence of Treesinging within their society is a testament to the enduring bond and reverence Ogiers have always held for nature. They reside amidst lush groves teeming with trees and meticulously tend to gardens, as vividly described in the books.
Loial, a character in The Wheel of Time, stands out as a remarkable Treesinger in the show. His exceptional abilities with trees set him apart from others in his race. Loial himself claims to be superior to most Ogier in the art of using the songs of growing, emphasizing the rarity of this skill among his kind. This distinction makes Loial truly unique within The Wheel of Time, contributing something special to the narrative. Whether this distinct talent will prove valuable in the battle against the Dark One, however, remains uncertain.
The Wheel of Time releases new episodes on Fridays on Amazon Prime Video.