In the fifth episode of The Wheel of Time's second season, "Damane," the narrative delves deeper into the world of the Seanchan and the Aiel, broadening the show's horizons and intensifying the conflict between light and darkness. This episode is a pivotal turning point, showcasing the characters' emotional depth and the high stakes of their fantastical journey.
The episode picks up with the aftermath of the Seanchan's attack, leaving a trail of captured channelers in their wake. Liandrin (Kate Fleetwood), now revealed as a member of the Black Ajah, delivers Egwene (Madeleine Madden), Nynaeve (Zoë Robins), and Elayne (Ceara Coveney) to Lady Suroth (Karima McAdams), the Seanchan leader. The Seanchan's control over their channelers, known as damane, is absolute, enforced through the use of an a'dam leash and collar. Despite Liandrin's disapproval of this enslavement, she is complicit in the fate that awaits the three women. However, in a surprising act of mercy or defiance, Liandrin cuts the ropes binding Nynaeve, setting the stage for their escape attempt.
Perrin Aybara (Marcus Rutherford), grappling with his own tragic past, finds solace and a new sense of purpose in the company of the Aiel and a former enemy, Dain Bornhald (Jay Duffy). Together, they confront the harsh realities of the Children of Light's brutal tactics and the Seanchan's occupation. Perrin's decision to free Aviendha (Ayoola Smart), an Aiel warrior, marks a significant shift in his character, as he embraces a more active role in the resistance against the Seanchan.
Back in Tar Valon, Verin (Meera Syal), a member of the Brown Ajah, uncovers the presence of the Black Ajah within the White Tower. Her investigation reveals a tremor in the records, indicating compulsion and the infiltration of the Black Ajah. This discovery not only heightens the tension within the Aes Sedai but also underscores the pervasive influence of the Dark One's forces.
The episode also explores the complex dynamics within the ranks of the Forsaken. Lanfear (Natasha O'Keeffe) and Ishamael (Fares Fares), two of the Dark One's most powerful lieutenants, display a rivalry that is both sensual and deadly. Their shared history with the Dragon Reborn adds a layer of intimacy and foreshadowing to their interactions, hinting at the Forsaken's individual agendas and the potential for betrayal.
"Damane" is an episode that thrives on the strength of its villains and the moral ambiguities that drive them. It is a narrative that delves into the heart of darkness, revealing the cracks within the Dark One's forces and the resilience of those who stand against them. As the Wheel continues to turn, this episode sets the stage for a conflict that promises to be as epic as it is personal, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this grand fantasy saga.