Towers of Midnight/Chapter 39

==Summary==
:
Aviendha arrives in the Aiel Waste. Rather than Traveling straight to Rhuidean, she runs much of the way. She appreciates the familiarity and constancy of the dust, sweat, sun, and even dangers of the Three-fold Land. As she sets up camp and settles in for dinner, she reflects upon Aviendha the Maiden becoming Aviendha the Wise One and her new role helping lead her people through their most trying time. She is caught off guard by a woman in Aiel garb suddenly appearing near her camp, almost without a sound. The middle-aged woman asks to join her and introduces herself as Nakomi. 
As they share water and food, Nakomi asks about the Car'a'carn and the wetlands. Aviendha believes the wetlands are very dangerous because it makes the Aiel weak and soft. But Nakomi says the wetlands are part of the destiny of the Aiel. In a way, the Three-fold Land was named because of the 3 things it did to the Aiel. It punished them. It tested their courage. It forged them into a strong people before returning to the wetlands. Aviendha asks from what sept Nakomi comes from and where she is traveling. But, Nakomi evades by saying she is far from her roof and that she cannot give this truth. Instead she turns the topic to wondering about the Aiel's great toh for breaking their ancient oath to follow the pacifist Way of the Leaf. Aviendha replies that the Aiel will meet their toh by fighting in the Last Battle of course. Nakomi wonders if the Three-fold Land is the Aiel punishment, then what is the point returning after meeting their toh. Aviendha has no answer. 
Meanwhile, curious events continue to occur. The fire seems stronger, dinner is ready faster, and the meal is uncommonly delicious. Nakomi excuses herself to go to the toilet. Aviendha worries about the Aiel after the Last Battle. What will be their purpose? After too long a time, she realizes Nakomi has disappeared without a trace. Aviendha falls into a troubled sleep.
==Characters==
*Aviendha
*Nakomi
===Referenced===
*Elayne Trakand
*Rand al'Thor
==Places==
*Aiel Waste
===Referenced===
*Rhuidean