Warning: Spoilers for The Wheel of Time season 2, episode 5
Summary
Tel'aran'rhiod, the World of Dreams, is a revolutionary concept that will have a profound influence on upcoming seasons, presenting novel possibilities and obstacles.
Dreamwalking, the ability to enter Tel'aran'rhiod, is possessed by Lanfear and other characters, offering both danger and storytelling potential for future episodes of the show.
The introduction of Tel'aran'rhiod is a game-changing development for The Wheel Of Time, aligning with the books and ensuring its impact on upcoming seasons. Given the vastness of Robert Jordan's acclaimed fantasy novels, it comes as no surprise that Amazon's adaptation has gradually introduced the essential concepts that shape the story. Season 1 did not include Tel'aran'rhiod, despite its significance to the narrative.
How Tel'aran'rhiod Works In The Wheel Of Time
: The introduction of Tel'aran'rhiod in The Wheel of Time season 2, episode 5, titled "Damane," adds a thrilling element to the ongoing battle against Natash O'Keeffe's Lanfear. Moiraine's mention of this dimension in a conversation with Rand sets the stage for a challenging confrontation with the formidable antagonist. While the existence of Tel'aran'rhiod presents significant obstacles for our beloved Wheel of Time characters, it also opens up exciting possibilities for them in the series.As explained by Moiraine in The Wheel of Time, Tel'aran'rhiod is the World of Dreams. It should be taken literally as a place where the characters of Wheel of Time can enter while they sleep. Tel'aran'rhiod mirrors the waking world, appearing exactly the same. However, what sets it apart is that it is shaped by the actions of those who journey through it. This means that people can create objects and buildings within Tel'aran'rhiod. Consequently, Tel'aran'rhiod has the potential to be intentionally transformed into a different realm from the real world.
Who Can Use Tel'aran'rhiod In The Wheel Of Time
: Tel'aran'rhiod allows people to access the dreams of others, as demonstrated in The Wheel of Time season 2, episode 5. In this episode, Lanfear invades the dreams of both Rand and Ishamael, showcasing the ability for immediate communication between characters without the need for physical proximity. Much like Lanfear's actions, individuals who possess knowledge of Tel'aran'rhiod can enter the dreams of their desired conversation partner in The Wheel of Time. Moreover, interactions within Tel'aran'rhiod extend beyond mere conversation, as it is also possible for individuals to be killed within this realm. This explains why Moiraine was so fearful of the potential consequences if Rand were to fall asleep.Tel'aran'rhiod can be accessed using Dreamwalking, an ability similar to Perrin's wolf communication powers and Min's viewings. Unlike channeling the One Power, Dreamwalking does not require a person to possess that ability. However, it is still a rare skill. The books establish that the Aes Sedai of the White Tower did not have a Dreamwalker among them for centuries until the events of the book series. This changed when Egwene developed the ability.
While most Aes Sedai do not possess the ability to Dreamwalk, there are other groups in The Wheel of Time's world who can enter Tel'aran'rhiod. For instance, the Wise Ones, who are Aiel channelers, are skilled Dreamwalkers and can teach this talent to others. The Forsaken, including Lanfear, also have the ability to enter Tel'aran'rhiod and are highly skilled in its usage. Moiraine's observation of Lanfear's mastery of Tel'aran'rhiod suggests that this aspect of her character will be portrayed in the show. Additionally, Moghedien, a Forsaken mentioned by Lanfear in "Damane," has exceptional capabilities in Tel'aran'rhiod. Another character, Rand, has accidentally traveled to Tel'aran'rhiod in the past and occasionally uses it.
Surprisingly, Perrin Aybara, a character who discovers his affinity for Tel'aran'rhiod, is one of the notable users of this ability. Wolves have a strong connection with Tel'aran'rhiod, which they refer to as the Wolf Dream, and Wolfbrothers like Perrin are able to navigate it effectively and utilize its properties to their advantage. Perrin's mastery of Tel'aran'rhiod, with guidance from Hopper, allows him to be a formidable opponent in this realm. Considering this connection, it is possible that the TV show's interpretation of Elyas and Hopper will also have experience with Tel'aran'rhiod, suggesting that Perrin's journey will delve deeper into this realm in the future.
Why Tel'aran'rhiod Is So Important To Wheel Of Time’s Future
The introduction of Tel'aran'rhiod in The Wheel of Time is a significant addition to the mythos. Its impact on the characters speaks volumes about its importance in the TV adaptation. The fact that Lanfear can freely attack Rand using Tel'aran'rhiod demonstrates the danger it poses. Villainous Dreamwalkers like Lanfear and Moghedien constantly threaten the characters, leaving them in a state of perpetual peril.
Tel'aran'rhiod has both positive and negative implications for the show. In the books, Egwene and Perrin become skilled Dreamwalkers, playing crucial roles in their respective storylines. This adds depth to their characters, especially for Egwene who lacks unique abilities compared to Rand, Perrin, and Nynaeve. However, if Egwene starts Dreamwalking, she will no longer be at a disadvantage.
The malleability of Tel'aran'rhiod, Egwene and Perrin's Dreamwalking abilities, and the inherent danger it presents have immense storytelling potential in The Wheel of Time, extending beyond just season 2. Similar to the book series, the discovery of the World of Dreams is likely to become a significant element throughout the series. While the confrontation with Lanfear may make it especially relevant in season 2, Tel'aran'rhiod will reappear in future episodes and multiple seasons, playing a crucial role in the storylines of Rand, Egwene, Perrin, and others.
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