The Wheel of Time's highly anticipated Season 3 finale, titled "He Who Comes With the Dawn," aired on April 17, 2025, delivering a dramatic conclusion that intertwines various character arcs and sets the stage for potential future conflicts. As the series continues to explore the age-old battle between good and evil, viewers witnessed significant developments that could reshape the fates of both heroes and villains alike.
In this thrilling episode, Rand al'Thor, played by Josha Stradowski, boldly declares himself the Car'a'carn before the Aiel, a title that signifies his role as a leader and savior. However, this proclamation is met with challenges, particularly from Couladin, portrayed by Set Sjöstrand, who also bears the dragon marks, complicating Rand's claim to leadership. The episode opens with a flashback revealing the political machinations that led to the election of Siuan Sanche (Sophie Okonedo) as the Amyrlin Seat, only to be swiftly followed by her downfall orchestrated by Elaida, played by Shohreh Aghdashloo.
As tensions rise within the White Tower, the finale sees Siuan deposed and sentenced to death under accusations of being a Darkfriend. In a powerful moment, Siuan declares her love for Moiraine (Rosamund Pike) before facing her execution, a scene that illustrates the personal stakes involved in the ongoing struggle for power. Meanwhile, Rand faces his own trials as he attempts to unify the Aiel tribes by revealing their true history, which he learned during his journey through Rhuidean. This revelation, combined with a dramatic display of the One Power as he summons rain, ultimately earns him the respect of many Aiel, though not all.
In parallel storylines, Nynaeve (Zoë Robins), Mat (Dónal Finn), and Elayne (Ceara Coveney) venture into Tanchico to confront Liandrin (Kate Fleetwood) and her Black Ajah allies. Their mission is fraught with peril as they search for a crucial a'dam collar. Mat's journey takes a dark turn when he inadvertently steps through a twisted redstone doorframe, encountering the Eelfinn, a mystical race that grants wishes at a price. His request to erase painful memories comes with unforeseen consequences, leaving him with significant gaps in his memory.
Meanwhile, Nynaeve's character arc reaches a pivotal moment when she is thrown into the water by Liandrin, leading to a near-drowning experience that allows her to overcome her block on channeling. This newfound power not only saves her life but also positions her for future confrontations against the Dark One's forces.
The finale also features intense confrontations between Moiraine and Lanfear, culminating in a fierce battle where both sustain injuries. Moiraine's resolve to protect Rand leads her to confront Lanfear, but the outcome remains uncertain as Lanfear escapes, leaving viewers questioning her motives and future actions.
As the episode unfolds, the narrative weaves together various threads, including the evolving alliances among the Forsaken. Moghedien's brutal murder of Sammael signifies a shift in power dynamics, with Rahvin agreeing to collaborate with Lanfear to eliminate Rand. This development raises the stakes for the heroes, who must now contend with an increasingly coordinated enemy.
The episode concludes with a sense of urgency as Rand, now declared Car'a'carn, must navigate the complexities of leadership amidst growing dissent. The implications of his newfound status are profound, as he becomes a target for those who seek to undermine him. The finale leaves audiences with lingering questions about the future of the characters and the fate of the world they inhabit.
Overall, Season 3 of The Wheel of Time has garnered praise for its character development and intricate storytelling, culminating in a finale that promises to propel the narrative into uncharted territory. Showrunner Rafe Judkins has expressed hopes for six or seven seasons to fully explore Robert Jordan's expansive universe, and as fans await news of a potential fourth season, the finale serves as a compelling reminder of the stakes involved in this epic tale.
With the introduction of the Eelfinn and the evolving dynamics among the Forsaken, viewers can expect even more twists and turns in the story ahead. As the battle between Light and Shadow intensifies, the question remains: will Rand and his allies be able to withstand the mounting challenges, or will the forces of darkness prevail?
