Warning: Spoilers for The Wheel of Time season 2, episode 5
Summary
Aviendha's early introduction in The Wheel of Time aims to establish the storyline for season 3 and her crucial role as a significant character. Adapting The Shadow Rising in season 3 necessitates the condensing or elimination of certain book narratives, thus making it imperative to include Aviendha early on.
Aviendha's presence alongside Perrin in season 2 foreshadows a future encounter between her and Rand, which paves the way for his journey into the Aiel Waste. Introducing Aviendha earlier than anticipated sets the stage for the events of The Wheel of Time season 3. Portrayed by Ayoola Smart, Aviendha makes a memorable entrance in season 2, episode 5 titled "Damane," as Perrin discovers her imprisoned by the Aiel Marcus Rutherford. By freeing her, Perrin gains a strong ally in preparation for the upcoming battle against the Seanchan in Falme.
The Wheel Of Time Season 3 Is Jumping Ahead To The Fourth Book
: In the Wheel of Time books by Robert Jordan, Perrin's involvement in this story is based on the source material, while Aviendha's role is a creation of the TV adaptation. Unlike the books, where Aviendha is introduced later in The Dragon Reborn, the TV show introduces her in The Great Hunt. Although she doesn't become a central character until The Shadow Rising, she is already shaping up to be an important player in the story. Despite this deviation from the novels, this choice seems logical when considering the overall trajectory of the plot.In an exciting development, The Wheel Of Time has confirmed its renewal for a third season before the second season even premiered. Season 3 will delve into the captivating tale of The Shadow Rising. This marks a departure from the show's previous format, where each season loosely followed the corresponding book in the series. The inaugural season of The Wheel of Time brilliantly brought The Eye of the World to life, while the ongoing second season captivatingly explores the events of book 2. However, with a staggering 14 books in the series, it is only logical to anticipate that the show will be unable to maintain this pace indefinitely.
Why Wheel Of Time Season 3 Needs Aviendha & The Aiel
Given the unlikely possibility of a 14-season run, The Wheel of Time cannot dedicate a whole season to each book. It is possible that certain storylines from the books might need to be condensed or omitted entirely, resulting in the most crucial parts of book 3 being incorporated either towards the end of season 2 or the beginning of season 3, before moving on to The Shadow Rising. From what can be inferred, the challenges faced by Rand and the other characters in the fourth novel will heavily shape the narrative of season 3.
Rand, in addition to being the Dragon Reborn, is believed to be the Car’a’carn, a heroic figure from the Aiel prophecies who will lead them out of the Aiel Waste. Discovering this vital aspect of his destiny, Rand embarks on a journey to the Aiel Waste in The Shadow Rising, accompanied by significant characters, including Aviendha. The events that unfold in the Aiel Waste deeply impact the narratives of not only Rand, but also Moiraine, Mat, and Egwene. Eventually, Rand arrives at his destination and encounters a vast number of individuals who wholeheartedly embrace him as the Car’a’carn. This significant development sets the stage for Rand's subsequent voyage in the following book, The Fires of Heaven.
The early introduction of Aviendha in season 2, before the fight at Falme, aligns with the show's focus on The Shadow Rising in season 3. By deviating from the timeline of the books, the show acknowledges the importance of Aviendha and the Aiel to the plot of The Shadow Rising. Therefore, it is crucial for Aviendha to become integrated into the show earlier rather than later.
What Aviendha Meeting Perrin Means For Season 2’s Ending
The possibility of Rand's encounter with the Aiel seems to have shifted due to the show's narrative direction. In The Dragon Reborn, Rand's fateful battle with Ishamael at the Stone of Tear brought the Aiel into his sphere of influence. Pledging their loyalty, they claimed the Stone in his name. Whether this specific event transpires in the show or not, there is now a tangible chance for Rand to become entangled with the Aiel by the conclusion of season 2. This likelihood arises from the introduction of Aviendha and her mission, as revealed in "Damane." Aviendha's objective is to locate the Ca'a'carn, which directly aligns with the Aiel's interests in The Shadow Rising.
Aviendha accompanying Perrin has significant implications for Rand's future, despite their divergent paths. Perrin's destination of Falme aligns with Rand's anticipated arrival by the end of the season, where he will engage in his renowned battle with Ishamael in the sky. Consequently, the convergence of Rand and Aviendha seems inevitable. This development will allow The Wheel of Time to establish the foundation for Rand's discovery of the Car'a'carn prophecy and set the stage for his eagerly awaited expedition into the Aiel Waste.
Stream new episodes of The Wheel of Time on Amazon Prime Video every Friday.