In the aftermath of Dumai's Wells, Rand's relationship with the Aes Sedai is shattered. He pushes forward with his campaign to unite the nations, storming the city of Illian to confront the Forsaken Sammael, while Mat finds himself entangled with the Daughter of the Nine Moons. Egwene, now raised as the Amyrlin Seat of the rebel Aes Sedai, begins the difficult work of turning a figurehead position into real authority. A Crown of Swords tightens the pace after the sprawl of Lord of Chaos and drives several character arcs to critical turning points.