Warning: Spoilers ahead for The Wheel of Time books.
Summary
Season 2 of The Wheel of Time will further diverge from the books, incorporating the alterations introduced in the previous season. This departure in season 1, which isolated Mat from the other characters, might actually enhance his narrative by enabling his growth and progression.
If Mat is healed early in season 2, he could potentially join Perrin or venture on new adventures, possibly rescuing Nynaeve, Egwene, and Elayne from peril.
The second season of The Wheel of Time will continue Prime Video's adaptation of Robert Jordan's popular book series, but it will also benefit from a controversial change made in season 1. The first season of The Wheel of Time deviates from the books on multiple occasions, and these deviations will continue to shape the storylines of season 2. Despite the characters being together in the books, the TV show separates its main characters at the end of season 1. This not only introduces a new character arc for the Dragon Reborn, Rand al' Thor, but also suggests that Mat and Perrin's journeys will take on a different aspect.
Although The Wheel of Time adaptation by Amazon has faced criticism for its controversial changes to the books, these alterations could ultimately benefit the series. Notably, removing Jordan's blueprint for one storyline, specifically Mat's, proves to be advantageous. In The Wheel of Time season 1, episode 6, Mat Cauthon diverges from his book counterpart by leaving his friends behind and not accompanying them to the Eye of the World. However, in the finale, Mat returns to Tar Valon, thereby adding an intriguing element to his character arc for season 2.
Wheel Of Time Can Heal Mat Immediately
While The Wheel of Time has faced criticism for its decision to separate Mat from the other main characters, this divergence may actually enhance his narrative arc in season 2. In the books, Mat endures prolonged suffering from the effects of the ruby-hilted dagger he discovered in Shadar Logoth. This knife continues to impact his personality, making it challenging for readers to fully embrace his character. Hence, shifting Mat to a different location proves to be a beneficial development in The Wheel of Time's second season, as it paves the way for his accelerated healing process.
In The Wheel of Time books, Mat's release from the taint of the dagger is orchestrated by the Aes Sedai. The promise of his character's trajectory in season 1 is exemplified by his journey towards the White Tower. Although certain storylines from the books may be omitted, viewers can anticipate Mat's mental clarity in part of season 2. Consequently, this affords an opportunity for audiences to become acquainted with him unbiased by the corrupting influence of the dagger. Furthermore, this development allows for the possibility of Mat undertaking more significant actions in the forthcoming episodes, rather than merely shadowing his companions while succumbing to worsening ailment.
What Mat's Story Can Be if He's Healed In Season 2
If Mat is healed early on in season 2 of The Wheel of Time, his journey can intersect with the rest of the show's main characters. Depending on his swift recovery, he has the potential to reunite with Perrin and join him in his quest for the Horn. Furthermore, he could progress beyond the events of the second book in The Wheel of Time series and delve into his forthcoming narrative arcs. In The Dragon Reborn, the third installment, Mat emerges as the savior of Nynaeve, Egwene, and a woman named Elayne, who face a perilous conspiracy aiming to eliminate them, orchestrated by the treacherous Black Ajah. By being present at the White Tower, Mat not only receives the necessary healing but also embarks on a new trajectory.
With the Wheel of Time season 2 altering Rand's path, there is a chance for him and Mat to reunite. A reunion between them appears inevitable, considering the show's freedom from the original material. Consequently, The Wheel of Time has the potential to introduce an entirely fresh subplot for Mat, delighting viewers with unexpected narrative choices.