The Wheel of Time Unveils its Most Epic Romance - Prepare to be Swept Away!
The Wheel of Time Season 2 finale unveils an intriguing romance for Rand, introducing a new love interest and altering how his relationship with Elayne unfolds Aviendha emerges as a potential contender for Rand's heart, raising anticipation for future developments
Warning: Spoilers for The Wheel of Time season 2, episode 8
Summary
The season 2 finale of The Wheel of Time hints at future romantic connections for the characters, with a particular focus on a potential romance between Rand and Elayne. Just like in the books, Rand forms relationships with three women - Min, Elayne, and Aviendha. The show appears to be aligning with this storyline.
Although Elayne has been introduced as the primary love interest thus far, it is speculated that Rand will initially enter into a romantic relationship with Aviendha before pursuing relationships with either Min or Elayne. The Wheel of Time season 2's final episode marked the beginning of the series' most significant love story. While romance may not be the main focus of the show, it has been an influential aspect, causing conflict and driving the actions of its main characters. Some of the show's major relationships, such as Rand and Egwene, as well as Nynaeve and Lan, have been adapted from Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time novels.
The Wheel Of Time Season 2 Finale Hints At Rand's Romance Story
: The Dragon Reborn saga's primary romance has been overlooked in the show despite receiving significant screen-time. Instead, it has played a secondary role compared to other plotlines. Nevertheless, as the show progresses, the narratives of various characters from the novels are beginning to unfold. Perrin is embracing his role as a Wolfbrother, Mat has regained the knowledge of his past lives, and Rand has been acknowledged as the Dragon Reborn. In the Wheel of Time season 2 finale, the futures of these characters are extensively established, suggesting that this also includes the development of the romantic aspect.
In the gripping finale, a pivotal moment occurs when two key protagonists finally cross paths. During this scene, Elayne graciously settles beside a wounded Rand and skillfully employs the One Power to mend the injury inflicted by Mat's cursed dagger. Interestingly, the show deliberately emphasizes this encounter, capturing Rand's lingering gaze as he gazes upon her for the first time, intriguingly questioning, "who are you?" This carefully highlighted introduction serves as a clear prelude in The Wheel of Time, hinting at the profound connection they will share in the future. In the original books, Rand and Elayne's relationship becomes entangled in a multifaceted romance involving two additional characters.
If the TV series follows the books, Rand's infatuation with Egwene will not last. As the storyline progresses, Rand develops relationships with three other women: Min, Elayne, and Aviendha. Rand is perplexed by his feelings for all three, but eventually, the four of them come to accept this unique dynamic, with the women agreeing to share him. However, considering that the finale is only the initial step towards this relationship, it may be years before the TV series reaches this stage. Elayne, Aviendha, and Min have all appeared on the show prior to this episode, but none have been presented as romantic interests for Rand.
Wheel Of Time Changes How Rand & Elayne’s Relationship Begins
If the shown events had followed the books, the groundwork would have been established much earlier. In the original narrative, Rand's encounter with Elayne happened prior to her meeting Egwene and Nynaeve at the White Tower. While attempting to catch a glimpse of Logain – an incident portrayed in the fifth episode of The Wheel of Time – Rand unintentionally stumbled behind a wall, finding himself in the gardens of the Caemlyn palace. Elayne was the first to discover him and immediately developed a protective instinct and an affection for Rand, perceiving him as an innocent farmboy. When Rand's blunder led to trouble with the queen, Elayne pleaded his case, leaving a lasting impact on him.
Elayne's first encounter with Rand occurred during the climactic battle in the season 2 finale of The Wheel of Time at Falme. Prior to that, Elayne had already expressed her romantic interest in him, despite only meeting him once. Over time, her curiosity about Rand grew, prompting her to ask Egwene and Nynaeve about him whenever the opportunity arose. However, their romance didn't truly blossom until the events of book 4, The Shadow Rising, when they finally had the chance to engage with each other on a deeper level.
Why Aviendha Could Be Rand's Next Love Interest (Not Elayne)
Among the three female characters mentioned earlier, Elayne is the sole love interest that The Wheel of Time has hinted at for Rand. However, this does not necessarily indicate an immediate romance between them. As the storyline progresses in The Shadow Rising (the book season 3 is based on), it is possible that this connection will develop, but it is more probable that the series will first pair Rand with Aviendha before exploring a romantic relationship with Min or Elayne. It is worth noting that Aviendha, being an Aiel, plays a crucial role in Rand's upcoming adventure, which will take place in the Aiel Waste.
