The book begins with the Dark One taking over the land, and expelling the widespread effects of global warming upon the world. As part of his takeover, he resurrects the Forsaken Aginor and Balthamel whilst also creating Shaidar Haran.
Meanwhile, Mazrim Taim and to Rand al'Thor band together to trains the Asha'man (male channelers). However, Rand is proposed to work with by both the rebel Aes Sedai and the Aes Sedai. But, the leader of the Aes Sedai, Alanna Mosvani, attempts to take control over Rand by bonding him as her Warder. When Rand locates Salidar, he sends Mat Cauthon to find Elayne Trakand so that she can assume his position as ruler of Caemlyn and Cairhien.
At the same time, Elayne is sent to locate the ter'angreal, the "Bowl of the Winds”, in order to stop the Dark one from taking over. Rand is later kidnapped and tortured, leading Perrin to stage an attack. The fight is successful, with Rand gaining fealty from the Aes Sedai.
