Book Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – The Wheel of Time – Book 10
- Jason Montero
- Sep 6
- 22 min read
Book summary by chapter of Crossroads of Twilight. Includes spoilers to the end of the book. In this tenth turning of the Wheel, time itself feels congealed—decisions simmer rather than strike, wars brood rather than erupt. Each character becomes a silent chess piece on a board of hushed dread, where shadows creep without sound and the winds of fate hold their breath. Like a twilight that refuses to end, the world tightens in anticipation of the storm yet to come.
Introduction – Crossroads of Twilight
The quietest choices can shift the fate of the world. In Crossroads of Twilight, Robert Jordan doesn’t rush forward—he slows the rhythm with surgical intent, revealing the intricate layers of strategy, diplomacy, and tension woven through the Pattern. This book summary by chapter captures every pulse of suspense, where action doesn’t explode, but simmers beneath every scene, ready to ignite.
From Perrin Aybara’s desperate pursuit to the veiled dangers within the White Tower, Mat’s restless instincts, and Elayne’s fragile hold on Andor’s throne, the tenth installment in The Wheel of Time saga reminds us that stillness can be more dangerous than chaos. These pages are filled with restrained power, secret moves, and inevitable decisions that shape the Last Battle yet to come.
To follow every thread from the beginning, don’t miss the Reading order of The Wheel of Time ➤
Want to see all the summaries from this series?
Click here to access the Complete Reading Order. 👇
Chapter Navigation
Prologue Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – Glimpses of the Pattern
Rodel Ituralde, the Little Wolf, waits in a snowy forest with his men. He knows that winter has hit Arad Doman hard and that the fate of his homeland depends on his next move. He has sent orders to nobles loyal to King Alsalam, who has been issuing erratic commands from his hidden refuge. Ituralde is setting a long-term trap for the invading Seanchan, but he knows that any mistake will doom him. Meeting with the Dragon’s Sworn, he persuades them to agree to a truce in order to fight the Seanchan together. Meanwhile, Elmon Valda, leader of the Children of the Light, conspires in the cold against enemies both inside and outside his order. At the Black Tower, captive Aes Sedai Gabrelle and Toveine attempt to decipher the plans of Logain Ablar, who moves among uncertain alliances. In a world on the brink of chaos, every decision is crucial.
Gabrelle and Toveine sense Logain’s growing unrest as he rides in silence, lost in thoughts that push him toward war. They fear that if they do not stay close to him, they will lose their chance to influence his actions. Meanwhile, in the White Tower, Yukiri struggles against the hostile atmosphere among the Ajahs. Her investigation into the Black Ajah keeps her on high alert, especially after discovering that certain Sitters were chosen under suspicious circumstances. Distrust spreads through every corner of the Tower.
Elsewhere, Gawyn awakens in a stable where he is hiding with the Younglings. A messenger from the White Tower arrives with orders from Elaida, but he hesitates to obey, torn between his loyalty to the Tower, his sister Elayne, and Egwene. Meanwhile, Caemlyn is under siege, and Bashere watches as Andor’s noble houses have unexpectedly united against Elayne.
Bashere and Bael observe from a distance as riders loot carts along the road to Tar Valon. The Queen’s Guard emerges from the city, forcing the raiders to flee. Frustrated by the lack of vigilance, Bashere returns to his camp, only to find that his wife, Deira, has been wounded in an assassination attempt. Though she survives, the attack confirms that they are in grave danger.
In Cairhien, Samitsu, tasked with maintaining stability, receives news from an Ogier named Loial and his Asha’man companion, Karldin. When they report a murder, they find Dobraine gravely wounded. Samitsu manages to save him, but confusion deepens when they discover a forged note with his name. As they try to unravel the situation, word arrives that a group of Aes Sedai and Asha’man have entered the city, with Logain among them, foreshadowing further conflict.
Chapter 1 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – Time to Go
Mat watches the Bay of Ebou Dar after the battle, feeling the weight of death and destruction as he counts the sunken ships and captured prisoners. Hiding with Noal on the banks of the Eldar River, he debates between his desire to flee and his duty to those he has saved. Egeanin, now Leilwin, finds him and reminds him that they must leave before the Seanchan discover them. They return to Valan Luca’s circus, where they learn that Seanchan soldiers have visited Luca asking about horses, raising alarms for Mat. Though the immediate danger seems to have passed, he decides it is time to leave and begins planning their departure once Thom Merrilin returns. However, an unsettling feeling overtakes him when, after days of silence, he once again hears the sound of dice rolling in his mind, foreshadowing that something important is about to happen.
Chapter 2 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – Two Captains
As Luca’s show remains calm, Mat confirms that the soldiers were merely verifying the horse exemption, but Luca fears they will return and agrees to leave as soon as possible. Egeanin insists on taking command, claiming Mat lacks the experience to lead the escape, but he ignores her and focuses on organizing the group’s departure. Juilin and Thera, the former Panarch of Tarabon, prepare, while Olver excitedly asks if he can ride Wind. Blaeric alerts the Aes Sedai, who remain impatient in their wagon. Mat moves through the camp, ensuring everyone is ready, feeling relieved that the journey will finally begin without issues. However, as the chaos of the circus erupts at the news of their departure, the sound of dice echoes in his mind once more, signaling that his luck is yet to be decided.
Chapter 3 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – A Fan of Colors
Mat remains uneasy about the sound of the dice in his mind, a harbinger of an important event. As he organizes the circus’s departure, Olver reassures him that they are safe. Egeanin challenges his authority, but Mat refuses to yield. Driven by instinct, he decides to visit Tuon, causing panic in Egeanin and Thera. Entering the wagon where she is held captive with Selucia, Tuon greets him coldly and mockingly calls him "Toy." Annoyed by the rumor that she is a servant, she throws a cup at Mat. In an unexpected turn, she offers him a deal: as long as he keeps his promises, she will not attempt to escape or betray him. To seal the agreement, they shake hands, and the dice in Mat’s mind suddenly stop rolling. Thom arrives with disturbing news—Tylin has been brutally murdered, and the Seanchan blame the Aes Sedai.
Chapter 4 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – The Story of a Doll
Furyk Karede, a loyal Deathwatch Guard, reflects on Tuon’s disappearance and his duty to find her. A Seeker of Truth, Almurat Mor, visits him with alarming information: a woman with a Seanchan accent has been extorting merchants in Ebou Dar, matching Tuon’s description. Mor hints at a possible conspiracy involving Aes Sedai, Egeanin, and even Suroth. Karede, recalling his lifelong devotion to Tuon since he saved her as a child, decides to take action. With a group of soldiers, sul’dam, and damane, he sets out to find the missing heir. As he strategizes, he realizes that his mission is more than just a search— the stability of the empire may depend on it.
Chapter 5 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – The Forging of a Hammer
Perrin woke in the freezing darkness, unsettled by a dream in which he had been a wolf and sensed something worse than the Myrddraal. Reaching out to the wolves in his mind, he found a distant pack that, when he mentioned his fear, pushed him away with a chilling message: “The Last Hunt is coming.” Filled with contained rage, he clutched the cord where each knot marked a day since Faile’s abduction. His search had led him to track the Shaido through the snow, always a step behind. As they drew closer, he found looted villages and ruined families. His impatience grew, but his fury was tempered like a hammer being forged. He received reports of suspicious activity between Masema and the Aes Sedai. Tensions within the camp increased, with old allies beginning to distrust him. His resolve was firm: to find Faile and destroy the Shaido.
Chapter 6 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – The Scent of a Dream
At dawn, Perrin rode forward, guided by instinct, when a scent chilled his blood—Darkhounds had surrounded his camp. He found their tracks imprinted on stone, a clear sign of their presence. Ordering the camp to remain alert, he tracked their path and discovered they were not hunting him but another target. In the forest, Berelain intercepted him with alarming news—one of her men had stolen a document from Masema’s camp. The letter, signed by High Lady Suroth of the Seanchan, confirmed the fanatic’s alliance with the enemy. Perrin understood the danger, but his sole priority remained rescuing Faile. Though he tried to stay out of political intrigues, he knew the games of power were catching up to him. Back at camp, he showed the tracks on the stone, and the soldiers’ laughter faded. The hunt was just beginning.
Chapter 7 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – The Blacksmith’s Puzzle
The discovery of the Darkhounds' tracks unsettled the camp, though Perrin insisted they had left. Berelain remained calm and reaffirmed her commitment to rescuing Faile, boosting the soldiers’ morale. Masuri studied the tracks using the One Power and revealed that the pack was unusually large and hunting a specific target. As Gallenne attempted to organize his men, a coded message alerted Perrin—Masema was approaching. Upon arrival, the Prophet offered information about a nearby city with abundant supplies, but Perrin rejected the distraction. His tense confrontation with Masema revealed the fanatic’s growing madness. As the Prophet withdrew, a new interruption arrived—Elyas and a Maiden of the Spear brought news. They had found the Shaido. Perrin felt the urgency rising. His hammer was ready.
Chapter 8 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – Swirls of Color
Elyas confirmed that the Shaido occupied a city with thousands of prisoners and at least ten thousand warriors. The enormity of the challenge struck Perrin, but he did not waver. He proposed scouting the camp and asked Grady to open a gateway to a nearby hill. From the summit, the sight was overwhelming—the Shaido camp stretched like a sea of tents. Marline revealed that hundreds of Shaido Wise Ones could channel, making them a greater threat than expected. Suddenly, a swirl of colors invaded Perrin’s mind, showing him Rand and Nynaeve, but he forced it away. Annoura trembled as she sensed an immense use of the One Power in the distance, but Perrin remained focused on his mission. He ordered prisoners to be captured for information. Rescuing Faile and crushing the Shaido were the only things that mattered.
Chapter 9 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – Traps
Faile, captive of the Shaido, plays her role as gai’shain while secretly planning her escape. Forced to spy on Sevanna for the Wise Ones, she becomes entangled in a dangerous game of shifting loyalties. Sevanna’s brutal discipline keeps the prisoners in constant fear. A fellow captive’s escape attempt seems to have succeeded, but when Faile turns to Bain and Chiad for help, they refuse due to their honor. The situation grows more complicated when Rolan, the Aiel who captured her, begins showing interest in her. As she struggles against the cold and despair, she is caught with a knife and punished harshly. However, Rolan secretly aids her, offering a glimmer of hope. Determined to escape before Perrin arrives and triggers a massacre, Faile realizes her best chance lies in exploiting Rolan’s attraction to gain her freedom.
Chapter 10 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – A Glittering Beacon
Elayne continues her journey through Andor’s noble houses, securing their support. At the Matherin estate, she grows impatient to return to Caemlyn but understands the importance of solidifying her political position. While channeling saidar to open a gateway, a powerful surge of the One Power flares in the distance, signaling an event of terrifying proportions. She senses Rand’s presence and wants to rush to his aid, but Aviendha stops her. Aware of the dangers of acting without more information, Aviendha insists they must not intervene. Doubt and concern weigh on Elayne, who, beyond political pressures, faces the challenges of her pregnancy and her bond with Rand. As they continue their route, the looming threat on the horizon serves as a stark reminder that time is running out and critical decisions must soon be made.
Chapter 11 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – Speaking of Debts
Elayne returns to Caemlyn through a gateway but senses a strange absence of saidar in the palace. As she heads to her chambers, her escort surrounds her with extreme vigilance. Birgitte and Aviendha receive her with concern, verifying her well-being. Dyelin remains absent, delaying the consolidation of support for her ascension to the throne. The political situation worsens as Naean and Elenia join Arymilla, increasing her influence. In the palace, Elayne faces resistance from Aes Sedai like Sareitha and Careane, who express unease over a mysterious event affecting the Kin and the Windfinders. Elayne stands firm and rejects any attempts at destabilization. Meanwhile, Mellar, after leading an unsanctioned raid, receives a severe reprimand from Elayne, who will not tolerate further insubordination. Meanwhile, she continues to await news from Gawyn and Galad.
Chapter 12 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – A Deal
Elayne takes a bath in the palace while reflecting on the political challenges and concerns regarding the White Tower. Birgitte reports the arrival of two Aes Sedai in Caemlyn and the departure of two others, keeping the total number of sisters in the city constant. The unexpected visit of Zaida, Mistress of the Waves, interrupts her moment of rest. Zaida demands that Merilille continue teaching the Windfinders and seeks an agreement with Elayne. After an intense negotiation, Elayne agrees to grant land to the Atha’an Miere in exchange for several Windfinders remaining in Caemlyn to maintain the gateways. Chanelle, the leader of the remaining Windfinders, expresses displeasure, but Zaida leaves satisfied. Meanwhile, Elayne remains uneasy about the distant and powerful beacon of saidar in the west, a constant reminder that greater forces are at play.
Chapter 13 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – Distinguished Heads
Elayne reflects on her recent deal with Zaida while enforcing new privacy rules in the palace. Aviendha and Birgitte sense her tension, but duty calls. Dyelin returns with unexpected news—she has secured the support of four noble houses—Mantear, Haevin, Gilyard, and Northan—placing Elayne on equal footing with Arymilla in the struggle for the throne. However, the Distinguished Heads are too young and inexperienced, which worries Dyelin and Birgitte. Elayne receives her new allies courteously and takes note of their soldiers, numbering over three thousand. As she navigates diplomacy and strategy, she perceives the growing threat of spies within the palace. Birgitte warns about Conail Northan’s arrogance, as he seems eager to prove himself in battle. Aware of the fragile political balance, Elayne prepares for what is to come.
Chapter 14 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – What the Wise Ones Know
Elayne meets with Reene Harfor and Halwin Norry, who report new spies in the palace, possible mercenary bribes, and a pattern in the arson attacks. Dyelin and Birgitte express concern over potential betrayals, while Elayne orders additional security measures. Later, Monaelle, an Aiel Wise One, arrives in Caemlyn to examine Elayne’s condition. After weaving a special thread of the One Power, she confirms that Elayne is carrying twins, news that fills her with joy. However, Rand remains on her mind, as the enormous surge of saidar detected to the west continues to worry her. The brief sense of calm vanishes when it is discovered that Merilille has fled the palace alongside a Windfinder. The Atha’an Miere will likely react with fury, further destabilizing the already fragile political situation.
Chapter 15 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – Growing Darkness
Elenia rides through the muddy camp, facing the cold and the uncertainty imposed by Arymilla on her fate. Her escort is small, and loyalty in the camp is volatile, with nobles waiting for the right moment to switch sides. She encounters Naean, another of Arymilla’s captives, who desperately offers her support in exchange for help escaping. Elenia manipulates her into signing a written pledge of allegiance, strengthening her own position. Meanwhile, Nasin, a deranged noble, harasses her with absurd proposals until Arymilla intervenes. That night, Hanlon, infiltrating the Royal Palace, is followed by an assassin whom he effortlessly eliminates. His loyalty remains uncertain, and his meeting with Shiaine reveals greater intrigues, including orders to free Seanchan prisoners and start fires. Amid power games and hidden betrayals, the pieces move in the shadows as Elenia and Hanlon prepare their next move.
Chapter 16 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – The Matter of Negotiations
Egwene watches Tar Valon from a distance, feeling a deep longing for the White Tower as her true home. Alongside Gareth Bryne, she analyzes the steady arrival of ships carrying soldiers loyal to Elaida, reinforcing the Amyrlin Seat’s position within the Tower. Despite Bryne’s pressure to launch an attack on the city, Egwene remains firm in her decision to avoid an assault that could irreparably divide the Aes Sedai. As they ride back to camp, Delana approaches Egwene to privately suggest negotiating with Elaida. This revelation unsettles Egwene, who gathers her advisors to discuss it. Beonin supports negotiations, but Egwene will only agree if Elaida abdicates and goes into exile. Despite Beonin fainting at the terms, Egwene stands her ground, fully aware that she must maneuver carefully to preserve the Tower.
Chapter 17 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – Secrets
Egwene reflects on Delana’s move, suspecting she is trying to sow discord among the Sitters and Ajah leaders. In the camp, she senses growing discontent and pressure for a swift resolution. As she rides, she observes novices and Aes Sedai crafting cuendillar, a valuable resource to fund the army. Tiana, the Mistress of Novices, expresses concern over Nicola’s impatience to learn too quickly. Egwene realizes that Nicola and her friend Areina could become a threat if they reveal sensitive information. She also faces resistance from some sisters regarding the cuendillar trade, though it is essential to sustain the siege. As she contemplates the rebellion’s fragility, Egwene reaffirms her commitment—she will do whatever it takes to preserve the Tower and ensure Elaida’s downfall, even if it means feigning negotiations to buy time.
Chapter 18 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – A Talk with Siuan
Egwene moves through the camp, receiving bows of reverence due to her status as Amyrlin. Her reputation for strictness among the novices unsettles her, but more urgent matters await. In her tent, she meets with Siuan and Halima. While Siuan remains focused on her duties, Halima, ever relaxed, insists that Egwene should share her worries to ease her headaches. Egwene, however, prioritizes her work. During their discussion, Siuan and Egwene debate the state of the White Tower and the movements of the Sitters. Siuan reports possible manipulation in the selection of Sitters on both sides, hinting at hidden influences. They also discuss the Black Tower, the armies of the Borderlands, and the unrest in Caemlyn. The pressure on Egwene mounts, and her headache worsens as she prepares for the upcoming meeting with the Hall.
Chapter 19 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – Surprises
Egwene hurries to the Hall to prevent any unwelcome surprises, though she must wait for Sheriam to announce her. Meanwhile, the sisters speculate about the intentions of Moria, Malind, and Escaralde, who called the meeting. Upon entering, Egwene senses the tension and notices changes in the seating arrangements. Akarrin and her group report that Shadar Logoth has vanished, leaving behind a massive crater caused by the combined use of saidin and saidar. The revelation sparks alarm, but the true shock comes when Moria proposes an alliance with the Black Tower to form circles with male channelers. The Hall erupts into shouting and debate. Egwene restores order and allows a vote on the proposal, which passes by a narrow margin despite some opposition. Plans begin to take shape for contacting the Asha’man, a groundbreaking decision that will alter the course of the White Tower.
Chapter 20 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – Through the Night
Egwene endures an endless session with the Hall, where the Sitters argue without reaching an agreement on the embassy to the Black Tower. Each Ajah insists on leading the mission and distrusts the others, delaying any resolution. Despite the tedious discussions, Egwene stays to prevent any surprises by morning. Upon leaving, the night is cold, and the half-moon casts light over the camp. In her tent, her maid Chesa scolds her for skipping meals, suggesting that her headaches stem from malnutrition. Halima is absent, an unusual occurrence. Before sleeping, Egwene enters Tel’aran’rhiod and contacts Aviendha in the former Little Tower of Salidar. They discuss the Black Tower and the looming war. Egwene has unsettling dreams of Mat, the White Tower, and an enigmatic rescue by a Seanchan. Upon waking, she receives news that Anaiya and her Warder have been murdered with saidin, heightening the sense of danger.
Chapter 21 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – A Mark
Alviarin returns to the White Tower after a long absence and discovers that Elaida has regained control. The Hall, now beyond her influence, has decided to initiate negotiations with the rebels. Confused, Alviarin attempts to reassert her authority, but Elaida humiliates her, strips her of the Keeper’s position, and threatens her with punishment. Terrified, Alviarin retreats to her quarters and uses a ter’angreal to summon Mesaana. However, the situation takes an unexpected turn when an immensely powerful Myrddraal interrupts the meeting and punishes Mesaana with dark fire. The creature, seemingly the Great Lord himself, marks Alviarin as his own and orders her to discover who is hunting the Black Ajah within the Tower. Horrified, Alviarin flees, convinced that her only chance to survive is to find and eliminate the perpetrators before it is too late.
Chapter 22 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – An Answer
Pevara receives an unexpected visit from Tarna, who, after her journey to Salidar, has reflected on the growing threat of the Asha’man. In Murandy, Tarna witnessed firsthand how recruitment groups operate openly, testing men to see if they can channel. Shocked by how quickly the Asha’man have grown in numbers and power, Tarna concludes that it is already too late to stop them. She proposes a radical idea: that the Red Ajah bond Asha’man as Warders instead of trying to gentle them. Pevara, stunned, hesitates, but Tarna insists there is no other viable option. She acknowledges that Elaida would never approve, but sees Pevara as a potential ally due to her unconventional thinking. The conversation leaves a crucial decision hanging in the air—one that could forever change the relationship between Aes Sedai and Asha’man.
Chapter 23 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – Ornaments
Cadsuane gazes at the cold landscape through the window as her golden ornaments sway in her hair. Verin arrives with news from Tear: the city is teeming with warriors, and Harine has departed after learning that Nesta din Reas has died. Min interrupts impatiently, insisting that Rand has requested to see Cadsuane. The Aes Sedai remains firm and refuses to be rushed. At the manor, Jahar spars with Lan under Merise’s watchful eye, and she observes that her Asha’man-Warder is growing stronger. Alivia, the former damane, stays close to Rand, protecting him. When Cadsuane finally goes to see him, Rand appears exhausted and distant, yet maintains his hardened demeanor. Algarin wishes to be tested as an Asha’man, and Rand considers it. The storm raging outside seems to reflect the growing tension within the manor, where each character plays a crucial role in preparing for the inevitable.
Chapter 24 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – A Storm Gaining Strength
Rand rests beside Min, but his mind remains plagued by worries. Lews Therin murmurs in his head as events continue to pile up. The arrival of Logain, Bashere, and several Asha’man brings further intrigue: some Aes Sedai have been bonded by men, something previously unthinkable. Rand confronts Logain, warning him not to start a war with the White Tower, but learns that Taim has created factions within the Asha’man and is consolidating his own power. Meanwhile, Balwer and Elza scheme in the shadows, each pursuing their own agenda. Aware that he cannot fight on all fronts at once, Rand makes an unexpected decision: he will seek a truce with the Seanchan. Thunder and lightning shake the manor, signaling that the storm has only just begun. His plan could be his salvation or his downfall, but Rand sees no other option in his fight against the Shadow.
Chapter 25 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – When to Wear Jewelry
Perrin continues his desperate search for Faile, analyzing the map of Malden and preparing a plan. Tension in the camp is palpable—resources are dwindling, and patience is wearing thin. With Berelain at his side, he maintains the appearance of a confident leader, though inside he feels frustrated. Before setting out for So Habor, he instructs Dannil to keep an eye on Arganda, whose behavior is becoming increasingly reckless. The march proceeds under an eerie atmosphere—farmhouses are abandoned, and the air feels unnaturally still. A sudden alarm spreads through the group when a Seanchan raken crosses the sky with a rider on its back. Perrin watches it but decides that this is not his battle… yet. As he continues his journey, his determination hardens—nothing will stop him from recovering Faile, no matter how many enemies stand in his way.
Chapter 26 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – In So Habor
Perrin and his group arrive in So Habor, a fortified city with an unsettling atmosphere. The people behave strangely, avoiding eye contact and showing signs of terror. The city reeks of decay, and rumors that the dead walk are confirmed when a man passes through a wall before the eyes of Kireyin and Seonid. Inside The Golden Barge inn, merchants, dirty and nervous, offer to sell grain, but Perrin discovers it is infested with weevils. Despite the danger, Berelain negotiates a purchase at a steep discount. As they inspect the warehouses, Perrin and his group witness aggressive rats and a city seemingly on the brink of collapse. So Habor is trapped in supernatural horror, but Perrin cannot afford to linger. He secures the grain supply and prepares to leave, convinced that darker forces are at work.
Chapter 27 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – What Must Be Done
The grain bought in So Habor is winnowed to remove the weevils, but the process is slow and exhausting. Impatient to rescue Faile, Perrin struggles with his conscience as the Aes Sedai and Berelain remind him that he cannot save everyone. Upon returning to camp, he discovers that Arganda and Masema have begun torturing Shaido prisoners in a desperate attempt to extract information. In a brutal and desperate act, Perrin cuts off a prisoner’s hand to force them to talk, but gains nothing useful. The cruelty of the act deeply unsettles him, and in the forest, he finally discards his axe. Later, Tallanvor brings shocking news—fifteen thousand Seanchan, including damane, are nearby and also hunting the Shaido. Desperate, Perrin decides that even the Seanchan’s help might be the key to retrieving Faile.
Chapter 28 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – A Cluster of Rosebuds
Since leaving Ebou Dar, traveling with Valan Luca’s show has been torture for Mat. Constant rain and mud slow their progress, and Luca, ever greedy, insists on stopping in every town to make money. Meanwhile, Mat must keep an eye on Tuon, who remains an enigma. The Aes Sedai and the sul’dam traveling with him make things no easier, each with their own agendas and tensions. Amid the chaos, Mat tries to win Tuon’s trust with small gifts, such as fabric flowers and games of dice. Finally, when they arrive in Jurador, Tuon demands that he fulfill a promise. Mat agrees, and at that moment, the dice that have ominously rattled in his head come to an abrupt stop. He knows he is trapped, but there is nothing he can do to change it now.
Chapter 29 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – Something That Flickers Uncertainly
Mat prepares to leave with Tuon and Selucia, uneasy about the dice still rolling in his mind. In Jurador, they browse market stalls for fabric, but the sudden disappearance of the crowd alarms him. Upon returning to camp, they find Egeanin wounded after being stabbed by Renna, who flees to alert the Seanchan. Mat and his group pursue her to the Eldar River, where they catch up and, with no other choice, he orders her shot. Renna’s death silences the dice, but leaves Mat with a heavy conscience. Back at camp, he learns that Luca has decided to stay, protected by a document signed by Tuon—though Mat is not included in that security. Exhausted, he laughs at Tuon’s whimsical power, seeing her wearing the silk roses he gave her, a reminder of how little he understands her and the uncertain fate that awaits him.
Chapter 30 Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – What the Oath Rod Can Do
Egwene wakes in her tent with the sense that the White Tower has never felt farther away, surrounded by a camp teeming with unease. The winter weather worsens the feeling of uncertainty. The death of Kairen Stang shakes the sisters—her murder by saidin confirms the presence of a dangerous enemy. Nisao informs Egwene of the killing, and she takes on the burden of maintaining control. Meanwhile, tension rises in the camp—the sisters embrace saidar out of precaution, and fear spreads among them like a plague. During a meeting with Romanda, Egwene proposes using the Oath Rod to free older Aes Sedai, extending their service to the Tower. The idea is met with outrage. Aware that her leadership is at stake, Egwene makes a crucial decision—she will personally take on the secret mission she had originally assigned to Bode Cauthon.
Epilogue Summary – Crossroads of Twilight – An Answer
Rand watches the storm raging over Tear, lost in dark thoughts as the pain of his wounds lingers. The voice of Lews Therin whispers in his mind, but he ignores it. The arrival of Bashere interrupts his brooding with crucial news—the Seanchan are willing to negotiate, but they will only meet with the Dragon Reborn in person. Rand asks if the meeting is with Lady Suroth, but Bashere shakes his head; the meeting must be with someone from the imperial family—the Daughter of the Nine Moons. Upon hearing the name, Rand feels the weight of prophecy settle on his shoulders. A flash of lightning illuminates the sky, and thunder rumbles ominously, like a harbinger of the confrontation to come. In the storm ahead, the fate of the world will be decided, split between Light and Shadow, in a battle from which there will be no turning back.
Conclusion – Crossroads of Twilight
Crossroads of Twilight does not surrender to frenzy—it postpones it with brilliance. Robert Jordan heightens the tension with a symphony of delays, converging paths, and truths that flicker like shadows on the edge of vision. This book summary by chapter revives that suspended anticipation, where even the sound of dice rolling in Mat’s head marks the start of something irreversible.
What unfolds here is not the climax, but its prelude: the looming weight of choices yet to be answered. Faile remains imprisoned, the Tower fractured, and the Dragon pressed by decisions that could shatter the world. Everyone waits—because the storm has already begun.
Keep the Pattern in motion. Continue the journey with the Book Summary by Chapter – Knife of Dreams ➤
FAQs – Chapter by Chapter Summary – Crossroads of Twilight
What does the sound of dice rolling in Mat’s mind mean in “Crossroads of Twilight”?
The dice rolling inside Mat Cauthon’s mind is a mystical signal tied to fate and pivotal moments. In this book, the sound appears whenever a significant choice or event is about to occur, often changing the course of the story. When the dice finally stop, it typically marks a decisive action—such as a vow, death, or sudden shift in trajectory. In “Crossroads of Twilight,” this recurring motif reflects Mat’s role in the Pattern and the increasing tension surrounding his journey.
Why is Faile so determined to escape before Perrin finds her?
Faile knows Perrin would unleash a slaughter if he finds her still a prisoner. She fears his love will lead him to rash and violent action that might cost innocent lives. Escaping on her own isn’t just about pride—it’s her way of protecting him from becoming something he’d regret. It’s a desperate and loving act, rooted in her understanding of who Perrin is and what he’s willing to sacrifice.
What makes So Habor such a disturbing turning point in Perrin’s arc?
So Habor is not just eerie—it’s a nightmare come to life. The dead walk, the city reeks of rot, and even the grain is spoiled. For Perrin, the visit is more than a detour for supplies—it’s a chilling glimpse into how deeply the Shadow is infecting the world. It forces him to confront the broader threat beyond his personal mission and adds to the book’s overarching sense of dread.
How does the deal between Elayne and Zaida reflect her political strategy?
Elayne’s agreement with Zaida isn’t just a favor—it’s a calculated power move. By giving the Sea Folk land in exchange for keeping the Windfinders in Caemlyn, she secures control over gateways and maintains influence over external factions. It’s one of many diplomatic steps she takes to solidify her claim to Andor’s throne and shows she’s thinking well beyond local politics.
Why does Egwene refuse to attack Tar Valon, even under pressure?
Egwene understands that a full assault could shatter the Aes Sedai forever. Rather than risking civil war, she opts for a strategy of patience and legitimacy. Her refusal is not hesitation—it’s discipline. In “Crossroads of Twilight,” this decision cements her authority and underscores her willingness to lead through wisdom, not force.
Comments