- Writer: Robert Jordan
- Genre: Epic fantasy
- Published: September 15, 1992
- Published by: Tor Books
- Length: 704 pages
- Translated: translated into over 20 languages.
- Sold: over 14M copies worldwide.
- Setting: The Shadow Rising is set in the fictional world of the Wheel of Time.
- Age Warning: 18+ (due to violence, language, and sexual content)
Do you know It is the fourth book in the Wheel of Time series by Robert Jordan?
Short Summary
Join Rand al’Thor on his dangerous quest to reach the Eye of the World, where he uncovers secrets about his past and embraces his role as the Dragon Reborn. Perrin Aybara is haunted by visions and sets out to find the Horn of Valere, which can save the world from the Dark One. Mat Cauthon, accompanied by Thom and Juilin, gets caught up in the politics of Caemlyn as he searches for his purpose.
Nynaeve al’Meara is determined to find Egwene and bring her back home while discovering the history of the Aes Sedai in Tar Valon. Egwene al’Vere faces challenges as she trains to become an Aes Sedai and becomes entangled in a power struggle with the Seanchan.
One-Line Synopsis
Rand al’Thor embraces his destiny as the Dragon Reborn while facing perilous challenges, joined by his friends, Perrin, Mat, Nynaeve, and Egwene, who each embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and confrontation with the forces of darkness.
Tone of Book
The tone of The Shadow Rising is dark, captivating, and engrossing.
One-Line Theme
The book delves into the theme of destiny versus free will, prophecy, the battle of good and evil, the value of friendship, and the power of hope.
Main Characters
Rand al’Thor
The destined Dragon Reborn on a perilous journey to the Eye of the World.
Perrin Aybara
A troubled man seeking the Horn of Valere to thwart the Dark One’s plans.
Mat Cauthon
A restless soul navigating life’s uncertainties while caught up in Caemlyn’s political intrigues.
Nynaeve al’Meara
A determined woman on a mission to find and bring back Egwene to the Two Rivers.
Egwene al’Vere
An aspiring Aes Sedai is caught in a power struggle between the Aes Sedai and the Seanchan.
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Detail The Shadow Rising Chapter Summary and Review
Chapter 1: Seeds of Shadow
In this chapter, the story begins with the introduction of Rand al’Thor, the Dragon Reborn, and his companions Mat Cauthon, Perrin Aybara, and Egwene al’Vere. They are traveling through the countryside, evading Trollocs and Myrddraal sent by the Dark One. The group seeks refuge in a small village called Emond’s Field. They meet Moiraine, an Aes Sedai, who reveals to Rand that he is the Dragon Reborn, the prophesied savior of the world.
Chapter 2: Whirlpools in the Pattern
As Rand and his companions settle in Emond’s Field, the village is attacked by Trollocs. Rand uses his newfound powers to defeat the Trollocs and save the villagers. Moiraine realizes that the Dark One is becoming increasingly active and fears that he is targeting Rand. She decides that they must leave Emond’s Field immediately and head towards Tar Valon, the White Tower.
Chapter 3: Reflection
The group, now joined by Nynaeve, the village Wisdom, and Lan, Moiraine’s Warder, makes their way towards Tar Valon. Along the journey, Rand reflects on his destiny as the Dragon Reborn and the burden it places on him. He also begins to experience strange visions and dreams that hint at his role in the battle between the forces of Light and Shadow.
Chapter 4: Strings
Rand and his companions reach the city of Baerlon, where they encounter Min, a young woman with the ability to see auras and foretell the future. Min reveals that she has seen visions of death surrounding Rand. Meanwhile, Moiraine learns that the Forsaken, powerful servants of the Dark One, are actively seeking Rand.
Chapter 5: Questioners
As Rand and his friends continue their journey, they encounter the Children of the Light, a zealous group that believes in purging the world of Darkfriends. The Children interrogate the group, suspecting them of being Darkfriends. Rand manages to convince them of their innocence, but the encounter leaves him wary of the danger he poses to those around him.
Chapter 6: Doorways
The group arrives in the city of Shadar Logoth, a cursed and dangerous place. While exploring the city, they are attacked by Machin Shin, a malevolent entity that dwells in the Ways, a network of magical pathways. They manage to escape but realize the growing danger of the Ways and the need to find an alternate route.
Chapter 7: Playing With Fire
Rand and his companions reach Caemlyn, the capital of Andor, where they are welcomed by Queen Morgase. Rand struggles with his attraction to Elayne, Morgase’s daughter, knowing that his destiny as the Dragon Reborn may put her in danger. Meanwhile, Moiraine learns of a powerful sa’angreal, a device that amplifies the power of the One Power, rumored to be in the city of Tear.
Chapter 8: Hard Heads
In Caemlyn, Rand encounters Logan, a false Dragon who claims to be the true Dragon Reborn. Rand feels the weight of responsibility as he witnesses the impact his existence has on others. Moiraine reveals her plan to take Rand to Tear, hoping to secure the sa’angreal before the Forsaken can claim it.
Chapter 9: Decisions
Rand and his friends leave Caemlyn and continue their journey toward Tear. Along the way, Rand must make difficult decisions about his path and the people he cares about. He grapples with the realization that his actions could have far-reaching consequences and that sacrifices may be necessary to fulfill his destiny.
Chapter 10: The Stone Stands
Rand and his companions finally reach Tear and encounter a city on the brink of chaos. The Stone of Tear, a fortress believed to hold the sa’angreal, is fiercely guarded. Rand confronts the ruling High Lords and asserts his claim as the Dragon Reborn. In a climactic battle against Trollocs, Rand wields Callandor, the powerful sa’angreal, proving his legitimacy as the Dragon Reborn.
Chapter 11: What Lies Hidden
Egwene enters the realm of Tel’aran’rhiod, the World of Dreams, and finds herself in the Aiel Waste. There, she encounters the Wise Ones, powerful female channelers of the Aiel people. They reveal to her that she has a significant role to play in the battle against the Dark One and instruct her to come to Cold Rocks Hold.
Chapter 12: Tanchico or the Tower
Elayne and Nynaeve, disguised as Aes Sedai, arrive in the city of Tanchico to search for a ter’angreal, a powerful artifact that can help fight the Dark One. They navigate the complex political landscape and face challenges as they uncover clues about the whereabouts of the ter’angreal. Meanwhile, Aviendha receives a letter calling her to Rhuidean, a sacred Aiel city.
Chapter 13: Rumors
Mat, now separated from Rand and the others, hears rumors about Whitecloaks, a zealous religious order, causing trouble in the Two Rivers, his homeland. He contemplates returning home but finds himself unable to leave Tear. Meanwhile, Perrin, grieving for his lost family, decides to go back to the Two Rivers alone.
Chapter 14: Customs of Mayene
Perrin arrives in the city of Mayene, where he encounters High Lady Berelain, a powerful ruler known for her flirtatious nature. Berelain attempts to seduce Perrin, but he remains loyal to his wife, Faile. Perrin reveals his plan to return to the Two Rivers and his reluctance to involve others in the dangers that lie ahead.
Chapter 15: Into the Doorway
Rand enters the twisted redstone doorway in Tear, seeking answers and guidance. Inside, he experiences a series of intense visions from different points in history. The visions provide insights into the nature of the Dark One and the struggle between the forces of Light and Shadow. Rand emerges from the doorway with a newfound determination and understanding of his role.
Chapter 16: Leavetakings
Rand and his companions bid farewell to Tear and set off on separate paths. Mat decides to leave Tear and embarks on his own adventure, driven by his connection to a mysterious ancient artifact, the dagger. Perrin continues his journey towards the Two Rivers, while Rand, accompanied by Moiraine, Lan, and Loial, sets his sights on the Waste to meet the Aiel.
Chapter 17: Deceptions
Elayne and Nynaeve, still in Tanchico, face numerous challenges and deceptions as they continue their search for the ter’angreal. They encounter Black Ajah and Aes Sedai who have pledged their loyalty to the Dark One and must navigate a web of lies and illusions to uncover the truth. Their determination and resourcefulness are tested as they inch closer to their goal.
Chapter 18: Into the Ways
Perrin, accompanied by Loial and a group of loyal Two Rivers folk, enters the Ways, a treacherous network of ancient pathways. They face numerous dangers, including Machin Shin, the evil entity that dwells within the Ways. Perrin’s leadership skills are put to the test as he guides the group through the perilous realm, determined to protect his homeland from the encroaching darkness.
Chapter 19: The Wavedancer
Mat finds himself aboard a Seanchan ship called the Wavedancer, captured by the Seanchan, a powerful empire from across the ocean. He encounters the sul’dam and damane, women who can control the One Power, and witnesses their brutal treatment. Mat navigates the unfamiliar culture and forms a dangerous alliance to escape captivity.
Chapter 20: Winds Rising
Rand, accompanied by Moiraine, Lan, and Min, sets out from Tear towards the Aiel Waste. They traverse the hostile landscape, facing extreme weather conditions and encountering bands of Aiel warriors. Rand learns more about the Aiel, their customs, and their connection to his destiny as the Dragon Reborn.
Chapter 21: Into the Heart
Egwene arrives at Cold Rocks Hold, a stronghold of the Aiel. There, she undergoes intense training and learns about the prophecies that foretell her involvement in the Last Battle. She develops her abilities as a channeler and gains the respect of the Wise Ones as she embraces her role within the Aiel society.
Chapter 22: Out of the Stone
Rand leads an army of Aiel warriors and confronts the Forsaken who have infiltrated Tear. He engages in a high-stakes battle within the Stone of Tear, wielding Callandor and utilizing his growing command over the One Power. The outcome of the battle will have significant repercussions for Rand and the world.
Chapter 23: Beyond the Stone
After the battle in Tear, Rand and his companions regroup and prepare for the next phase of their journey. They must confront the escalating threats from the Forsaken and the Dark One while also navigating the political landscape of nations vying for power and influence in the face of the approaching Last Battle.
Chapter 24: Rhuidean
Aviendha arrives in Rhuidean and undergoes the testing required to become a Wise One. She delves into the history and secrets of the Aiel through the city’s ter’angreal. The revelations she uncovers challenge her beliefs and deepen her understanding of Aiel’s past, present, and connection to the Dragon Reborn.
Chapter 25: The Road to the Spear
Mat escapes from the Seanchan aboard the Wavedancer and makes his way back toward the mainland. Along the way, he encounters the Aiel and becomes entangled in their internal conflicts. Mat discovers the significance of the spear and begins to embrace his role in the battles to come.
Chapter 26: The Dedicated
Perrin arrives in the Two Rivers and finds his homeland under the control of the Whitecloaks. He gathers loyal supporters and forms a resistance to liberate the region. Perrin confronts the Whitecloaks, using his unique abilities as a Wolf brother to gain an advantage in the fight for his people’s freedom.
Chapter 27: Within the Ways
Rand and his companions venture into the Ways, seeking a shortcut to their next destination. They navigate the twisted and dangerous pathways, encountering both physical and supernatural threats. The dark presence of Machin Shin looms, testing their determination and forcing them to rely on their skills and trust in one another.
Chapter 28: To the Tower of Ghenjei
Mat, guided by Thom and a mysterious letter, embarks on a perilous journey to the Tower of Ghenjei. They face numerous obstacles and encounters with mythical creatures as they make their way closer to their destination. Mat’s luck and cunning will be tested as he seeks to rescue a captured ally from the clutches of the Tower.
Chapter 29: Homecoming
Rand returns to Cairhien, his birthplace, and is hailed as a conquering hero. He confronts the remaining Forsaken and asserts his authority over the city, solidifying his control and influence. Rand’s homecoming is fraught with political maneuvering and personal challenges, as he grapples with the weight of leadership and the sacrifices it demands.
Chapter 30: Beyond the Oak
Rand and his companions venture into a mysterious forest known as the Oak of Ages. Within its depths, they encounter ancient beings and face trials that test their resolve and abilities. The secrets of the Oak and its connection to the Pattern begin to unravel, revealing new insights and dangers.
Chapter 31: Assurances
Elayne and Nynaeve, still disguised as Aes Sedai, navigate the political landscape of Tanchico. They form alliances and gather information to aid in their mission. However, their actions draw the attention of powerful forces, and they must tread carefully to ensure their safety and the success of their objectives.
Chapter 32: Questions to be Asked
Mat and Thom continue their journey toward the Tower of Ghenjei. Along the way, they encounter individuals who possess valuable knowledge about the tower and its mysteries. Mat must ask the right questions and navigate the delicate balance between gaining information and protecting his own interests.
Chapter 33: A New Weave in the Pattern
Rand faces the challenge of maintaining order and stability in Cairhien as he consolidates his rule. He weaves intricate political schemes and alliances to solidify his authority. However, new threats and unexpected developments arise, forcing him to adapt and weave a new pattern to protect his position.
Chapter 34: He Who Comes With The Dawn
Perrin and his forces confront a formidable enemy in the Two Rivers. They engage in a fierce battle against Trollocs and Darkfriends, determined to free their homeland from oppression. Perrin’s leadership is tested as he rallies his troops and seeks to fulfill his duty as a defender of the Light.
Chapter 35: Sharp Lessons
Egwene continues her training with the Wise Ones in the Aiel Waste. She endures rigorous lessons and tests, both physical and mental, to hone her skills as a channeler and a leader. Egwene learns valuable lessons about power, responsibility, and the nature of leadership in the face of adversity.
Chapter 36: Misdirections
Rand and his companions employ various strategies and misdirections to confuse their enemies and protect their true intentions. They play a dangerous game of deception, concealing their plans and manipulating their adversaries. The intricate web of misdirection weaves a cloak of uncertainty and keeps their enemies off balance.
Chapter 37: Imre Stand
Mat and Thom reach Imre Stand, a crucial location on their journey to the Tower of Ghenjei. They face formidable challenges and encounter powerful adversaries who seek to hinder their progress. Mat’s cunning and resourcefulness are put to the test as he fights to overcome the obstacles in his path.
Chapter 38: Hidden Faces
Elayne and Nynaeve delve deeper into the secrets of Tanchico, uncovering hidden factions and conspiracies. They must navigate a treacherous world of espionage and subterfuge, where loyalties are uncertain and danger lurks at every turn. The discovery of hidden faces sheds light on the true nature of the threats they face.
Chapter 39: A Cup of Wine
Rand attends a crucial meeting with influential leaders and rulers, where alliances are formed and agreements are made. The meeting is filled with political intrigue, as each participant seeks to further their own interests and secure their place in the changing world. Rand’s choices and negotiations have far-reaching consequences.
Chapter 40: Hunter of Trollocs
Perrin leads a skilled group of warriors in a hunt for Trollocs that have infiltrated the Two Rivers. He uses his unique abilities as a Wolfbrother to track down and eliminate the enemy forces. Perrin’s determination and skill as a hunter are put to the ultimate test in this dangerous and crucial mission.
Chapter 41: Among the Tuatha’an
Mat and Thom encounter a group of Tuatha’an, also known as the Traveling People or Tinkers. They immerse themselves in the Tuatha’an’s way of life, learning their customs and beliefs. Mat’s time among the Tuatha’an brings new perspectives and insights, shaping his understanding of the world and his role in the unfolding events.
Chapter 42: A Missing Leaf
Egwene delves deeper into the world of dreams, honing her abilities as a dream walker. She encounters a mysterious figure and uncovers clues that lead her to believe someone close to her is in danger. Egwene’s search for the missing leaf takes her on a perilous journey through the realm of dreams.
Chapter 43: Care for the Living
Rand and his allies face the aftermath of a devastating attack on Cairhien. They must tend to the wounded and rebuild what was lost. Amid the chaos and destruction, Rand learns the importance of caring for the living and the impact his decisions have on the lives of those he leads.
Chapter 44: The Breaking Storm
A powerful storm ravages the land, bringing destruction and chaos. Rand and his companions must navigate through the storm, facing its deadly fury and the challenges it presents. The breaking storm becomes a metaphor for the upheaval and changes that Rand and the world are experiencing.
Chapter 45: The Tinker’s Sword
Perrin encounters the Tuatha’an once again, and his path intersects with theirs. He witnesses their pacifist ways and the conflicts they face as they struggle to survive in a dangerous world. Perrin’s encounter with the Tinker’s sword becomes a catalyst for his own self-reflection and understanding of his role in the Last Battle.
Chapter 46: Veils
Elayne and Nynaeve continue their investigations in Tanchico, seeking to unveil the secrets hidden within the city. They navigate a complex web of lies, disguises, and misdirection, gradually uncovering the truth behind the dangerous artifacts and their connection to the Shadow. The veils of deception are slowly lifted, revealing a clearer picture of the threats they face.
Chapter 47: The Truth of a Viewing
Mat receives a crucial revelation from a powerful Aes Sedai, who reveals the truth of a viewing she had of him. The revelation sheds light on Mat’s destiny and his pivotal role in the events to come. Mat grapples with the weight of this revelation and the choices it presents, shaping his path forward.
Chapter 48: An Offer Refused
Egwene receives an unexpected offer that could significantly impact her future. She must weigh the consequences and make a decision that aligns with her principles and goals. The offer refused becomes a turning point in Egwene’s journey as she asserts her independence and takes control of her own destiny.
Chapter 49: Cold Rocks Hold
Rand and his forces confront the fortress of Cold Rocks Hold, a stronghold of the enemy. They engage in a fierce battle, utilizing their strategic skills and the One Power to overcome the defenses. The outcome of the battle has far-reaching implications for the larger conflict and Rand’s campaign against the Shadow.
Chapter 50: Traps
Mat, Thom, and their companions face a series of traps and obstacles as they near the Tower of Ghenjei. They must rely on their wits and resourcefulness to navigate the dangerous terrain and overcome the traps set by their adversaries. The traps become a test of their ingenuity and determination to rescue their captive ally.
Chapter 51: Revelations in Tanchico
Elayne and Nynaeve make significant discoveries in their search for the dangerous artifacts in Tanchico. They uncover hidden chambers and unveil the true nature of the artifacts’ power. The revelations in Tanchico bring them closer to fulfilling their mission and thwarting the plans of the Dark One’s followers.
Chapter 52: Need
Perrin experiences a powerful compulsion known as the Wolf Dream, drawing him towards a specific location. He grapples with the need to understand and heed the call of the Wolf Dream, which holds important clues and guidance for his role in the Last Battle. Perrin’s connection to the wolves deepens as he follows the path laid out before him.
Chapter 53: The Price of a Departure
Rand makes a difficult decision to leave Cairhien and continue his quest, despite the cost it exacts on those he cares about. The price of his departure weighs heavily on his conscience as he confronts the sacrifices and hardships endured by those who stand by his side. Rand’s resolve is tested as he grapples with the personal toll of his actions.
Chapter 54: Into the Palace
Mat, Thom, and their companions infiltrate the Palace of the Nine Moons, a stronghold of the Seanchan. They navigate the treacherous environment, disguising their true identities and seeking to rescue a captured ally. The infiltration of the palace brings them face to face with the Seanchan’s power and their own determination to free their comrade.
Chapter 55: Into the Deep
Elayne and Nynaeve descend into the depths of the Panarch’s Palace in Tanchico, where they believe the most dangerous artifacts are hidden. They face perilous challenges and encounter ancient guardians as they delve deeper into the mysteries of the palace. Into the deep, they uncover the true extent of the threat they face.
Chapter 56: Goldeneyes
Perrin and his forces travel through the Three-fold Land, encountering the Aiel and their customs. Perrin’s leadership is tested as he navigates the delicate balance between his own goals and the needs of the Aiel. Goldeneyes, his connection to the wolves, becomes a symbol of his unique position and the trust placed in him.
Chapter 57: A Breaking in the Three-fold Land
Rand’s presence in the Aiel Waste triggers a breaking point in the delicate balance of power among the Aiel clans. He becomes entangled in their internal conflicts and must find a way to restore unity and focus on the true threat. The breaking of the Three-fold Land challenges Rand’s diplomacy and his ability to unite disparate factions.
Chapter 58: The Traps of Rhuidean
Rand and Mat journey to the city of Rhuidean, a place of great significance in Aiel’s history. They encounter ancient traps and trials that test their mettle and challenge their understanding of the past. The traps of Rhuidean unveil crucial knowledge and insights that shape their roles in the Last Battle and the fate of the world.
Conclusion
The Shadow Rising Chapter Summary delivers an enthralling and captivating narrative, weaving together themes of destiny, friendship, and the battle against darkness. Dive into this epic fantasy and embark on a thrilling journey that will leave you eagerly turning the pages.
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