The expansive universe of “The Wheel of Time” often draws comparisons to the vast tapestry its characters continually mention. Amidst the rising tension, Rosamund Pike’s character, Moiraine, and the Emond’s Field Five find themselves battling many adversaries, with the group separated. Madeleine Madden’s Egwene and Zoë Robins’ Nynaeve undergo training at the White Tower. Marcus Rutherford’s Perrin pursues their former adversary, Johann Myers’ Padan Fain. Meanwhile, Dónal Finn’s Mat finds freedom from his captivity. Unknown to them, Josha Stradowski’s Rand, the Dragon Reborn, still breathes. With the weight of an impending conflict resting on his shoulders, Rand’s only perceived refuge lies in feigning death. Yet, their adversaries are more discerning than they imagined.
Fares Fares’ Ishamael, who had a presence at the Eye of the World in the inaugural season, nurses ambitions for Rand. Aligning with the Dark One’s forces, the heroes are continually on their guard, facing threats from every corner.
The show doesn’t suffer from a lack of enigmatic characters with fluctuating allegiances. Enter Selene, played by Natasha O’Keeffe. With a deep well of knowledge and a penchant for guarding her secrets, Selene’s real identity is a puzzle even for Robert Jordan’s avid readers. Here, her secrets possess the power to redefine her character entirely.
Unmasking Selene’s Role in ‘The Wheel of Time’
Season 2 welcomes Selene, an innkeeper from the outskirts of Cairhien, where she encounters Rand. Rand takes up temporary residence with Selene, seeking refuge and convincing his allies of his death. However, their relationship evolves into a two-way sanctuary: she finds solace reminiscing about her lost love, while he momentarily forgets Egwene. Although Rand’s rural upbringing paints him as a naïve outsider, Selene’s worldly knowledge astounds him. Despite her modest appearance, she demonstrates an uncanny ability to penetrate elite social circles effortlessly. Her familiarity with Cairhienin’s political intricacies further piques Rand’s curiosity. But Selene maintains her mysterious façade, often cautioning Rand against probing too deeply.
But what’s truly unsettling is Selene’s awareness of Rand’s suppressed power. How she knows about Rand’s brewing madness remains a question, but one thing is clear: Selene’s real identity is far from a mere innkeeper. She’s not just any Darkfriend — she is the infamous Lanfear, the Daughter of the Night.
Lanfear’s Legacy in ‘The Wheel of Time’
Prior to Selene’s entrance, viewers remain unacquainted with Lanfear’s backstory. Recognized as a timeless channeler, Lanfear stands among the Dark One’s elite followers, the Forsaken. This select group, also called the Chosen, once allied themselves with the Dark One but faced imprisonment. Now, with their shackles breaking away, the forces of Light face heightened peril. Lanfear’s power doesn’t merely lie in her strength but her cunning and ruthlessness. Her dedication to the Dark One, though unwavering, is surpassed only by her arrogance.
Furthermore, Lanfear’s expertise in manipulating Tel’aran’rhiod, the dream realm, makes her a force to reckon with. Yet, her interest in Rand remains her primary motivation.
Deciphering Selene/Lanfear’s Intentions Towards Rand
Despite Rand’s esteemed position, enemies like Ishamael remain ever-vigilant. Their hunt for Rand might have been inevitable, but their swift success in locating him showcases their vast reach. Posing as Selene, Lanfear seeks to exploit Rand’s isolation, aiming to influence his decisions.
While adhering to the larger scheme, Lanfear’s interactions with Rand carry a deeply personal undertone. References to her former lover, Lews Therin Telamon, echo Rand’s reincarnation as the Dragon Reborn. Lanfear’s ambitions aren’t solely directed towards gaining an ally for the Dark One, but she yearns to rectify past grievances, hoping to reignite their old flame.
As of now, with Lanfear donning the guise of Selene, she seems to be steering events to her advantage.
Stay Tuned
Fans can eagerly anticipate new episodes from “The Wheel of Time” Season 2, releasing every Friday on Prime Video.
Conclusion
“The Wheel of Time” weaves an intricate narrative with a plethora of mysteries, intriguing characters, and shifting alliances. As the story progresses, viewers can expect further unraveling of complex relationships, secrets, and the eternal battle between Light and Dark.
