After the fast-paced ending to the last book, we go back to the typical deliberate pacing. A lot of plots are in motion, but for the most part, it is slow motion. Summaries below the fold.
Min goes to Tar Valon to speak to the Amyrlin Seat. While waiting for her audience, she sees viewings that appear to indicate that some kind of violence will be coming to the White Tower. She tells the Amyrlin about her viewings, and that Rand is on his way to Tear. The Amyrlin traps Min into staying in the tower as a set of trustworthy eyes and ears.
Elaida sees Min going into the Amyrlin's study. Min's presence triggers introspection for Elaida, and she concludes that Siuan and Moiraine have some kind of conspiracy going on. She shares her thoughts with Alviarin, and even though both acknowledge that she has no proof of anything improper, they conclude that someone has to stop Siuan.
Padan Fain, under his alias, Ordeith, takes a legion of Whitecloaks to attack the Two Rivers.
Suroth gathers the Seanchan forces that were scattered in their defeat at Falme. She believes that the Dragon Reborn is controlled by the White Tower, and attempts to find out how by questioning a captured Aes Sedai.
Perrin and Faile are attacked by Perrin's axe. Mat is attacked by a deck of playing cards. Rand is attacked by is own image coming out of the mirror. When Perrin tries to find out what's going on, he finds Rand severely injured. He calls for Moiraine's help. She heals Rand and explains that the strange attacks were part of a "bubble of evil" that drifted out of the Dark One's prison.
Egwene and Nynaeve attempt to question the members of the Black Ajah that they have captured, but with little success. Moiraine explains her plans for Rand to them. Elayne and Egwene start scheming ways for Elayne to win Rand's heart.