CORRECTION: "The Hailene" is not "the Return." The Hailene means "The Forerunners" or "Those Who Come Before." They were sent to begin the Return, which is the "Corenne." Episodes 3 & 4 Unraveled aren't out yet! I wanted to jump to the current episodes and catch up later. Love you all!
Another little precision you might want to add is the fact that S1 already introduced the fact that the Oaths were sworn coz of Arthur Hawkwing, in E2 when Moiraine asks Egwene what she knows about the 3 oaths.
@@kerlek2111 please be patient. I'll catch up as soon as I can. This is just a hobby for me. Please read the full pinned comment or watch until the end of this video for an explanation.
A bow to GoT perhaps? Lady was Sansa's direwolf. I always wanted to know if Atuan's Mill was Jordan's bow to Le Guin's second Earthsea book, the Tombs of Atuan or just a coincidence...
@@Swiergotka78I bow to your casual knowledge and recall of other fantasy shows and books - could never quite get into the Earthsea books, maybe if I’d found them when younger. I just hope we haven’t seen the last of Lady, I feel there is more to her story than has been revealed..
Okay, not even 1 minute into the video and I already busted out laughing at work because of "for no one's pleasure". Never stop doing what you're doing, Lauren!
I love that you pointed out Lanfear's face and her swallowing motion once she had turned away from Ishamael -- I missed that on both my watches. Love this cast.
thank you lauren. I love how you dance around spoilers, yet try to weave theories with the knowledge available to show only fans! its such a blast to watch as a book fan!
I'm only halfway through this and I've already cracked up half a dozen times 😂 Lauren, you're a machine: thank you again for always coming through with the best WOT content. I hope you get the recognition you deserve from Amazon, Rafe etc for all the work you're putting into these videos ❤
Great catch on the region where Lanfear pulls Rand into the dream, it's such a quick shot I didn't realize the thematic connection to the Dragon's Fang/Flame of Tar Valon. If that's actually the site of Shayol Ghul I'll be very happy.
I don’t know what I’d do without this channel 😭 I haven’t read the books and I come back to your videos after each episode for some clarity and it helps me appreciate the show soo much more. I wish I found this channel when I watched season one.
I didn’t think it was possible, but you’ve leveled up in your Unraveling. Truly amazing. In a previous video, you mentioned they use the word “Dark” too often in place of “Shadow.” I felt the same on first watch, but thinking about the books more, it’s not actually inconsistent in quality (just in quantity). It’s the DARK one or Great Lord of the DARK, DARKfriends or friends of the DARK, DARKhounds. While the entity in whole is most often referred to as the Shadow, it is fairly rarely used in compound words (such as the Aiel calling Myrddraal “shadow man” or darkfriends “shadow runners”). The word “dark” is certainly not uncommon, and I see the two as essentially canonically synonymous. Full book spoilers to follow…. . . The show has really captured the essence of the Forsaken. Ishamael isn’t Ba’alzamon insane, but he’s remarkably manipulative and comes right out and states the fact of his true loyalty to the Dark One. And Lanfear is just as competent and unhinged as in the books. One can understand how she ends up helping the Light, even if not truly by intention. And “the boys” are incompetent in the books. For all their wheelings and dealings, Aginor, Balthamel, Be’lal, Rah’vin, Sammael, and even Demandred don’t achieve as much as they should. Sure, there were reasons why each fails, but ultimately none was as cautious as he should have been. Not sure yet whether Moghedien being “crazy” implies she’s absorbing Semirhage’s persona or whether Semirhage is part of Lanfear’s personality in the show (notice she wears black in T’A’R).
About the idea that Lanfear or Moghedien is absorbing Semirhage, when Moiraine says that what we know about Lanfear is that she loves cruelty without reason, it feels more like S. than pure L. Yet, it's her that gets involved with the Seanchan, not Ishamael, so I think they might just split her parts in various other Forsaken. For instance, I think that it might indeed be Moggy that will play with the male adam, as her role after that event could easily be taken by Graendal. Of course, both of their fate are very interesting so they'll have to choose either one, but oh well!
@@roxelaneelmira4678 I like your hypothesis. I’ll be curious to see who’s responsible for using the Domination Bands. Given how Lanfear is dressed in T’A’R at the end of episode 5, I’d surmise it could actually be Lanfear, but having Moghedien do that piece makes sense too. Loving the show right now!
@@mcina001 Oh Lanfear with the male A'dam would make sense. "Fine, if I cannot convince you to love me normally I will force you to do so" kind of thing.
@@gokbay3057 Exactly. And beyond that, having him strangle his lover would fit perfectly. On the other hand, Lanfear’s gotten more 2 or 3 months of Dragon bone already. Not sure any of the three ladies will top that going forward!
Has she though? I think that's "dream bone." Also, I have a feeling Lanfear is probably pretty selfish in bed, which doesn't exactly sound fun all of the time.
It's 7:20 in the morning and I should go to bed but you're damn right I'm clicking in to this 30 min UTP video. (and not gonna lie, that thumbnail helped) 🤪 edit: 8:50 "pulls from the shadows" ohhhh dang ok that is dope 14:05 "i'm not entirely convinced Ishamael is even evil" this show is going to literally turn us into darkfriends isn't it...
Thank you so much for your videos. I have never read the books and like the show but feel I have soooo many gaps in knowledge. Your videos truly make all the difference.
I just want to say thank you very much for these videos! It provides a lot of context and in-depth explanation of things we see on screen for us non-book readers while not spoiling anything. Please continue doing it in season 3!
The wheel of time is life itself! Each time Rand travels from one area to the next is a time his strength gains more power! This is another good against evil type of story! A very good and complicated story!
Wow! Just wow!!! I really didn't see it but I get it now when you said Ishamael might've love Lewis too, maybe romantically or not. Great in depth unraveling! Can't wait for episode 6 and for your unraveling too. I really wish Moraine can get her powers back. I miss her using it.
I like how when Dain sees Perrin's eyes he kind of forgets about Aviendha and leans away from him in fear. Egwene while talking to Moiraine in season 1 spoke about the King being Arthur Hawkwing (When Mo was teaching her the Three Oaths).
I couldn't have asked for a better Ishamael. They really made him have awesome presence, and style! I find again and again remembering that WoT is by no means a perfect story, and a LOT of elements in there have started poorly developed for a long time, or even different from how they eventually ended up, that having this re-turning of the wheel and smoothing out the sharp edges and adding/subtracting necessary/unnecesary elements is such a massive blessing to the WoT series. I sincerely hope they keep it going for the entire story until the end!
Wow, that is so precisely what I believe, as a quite hardcore fan fo the books myself (have read them over 20 times by now), I'm so glad someone else view it that way!!!
Your video was very informative. From a person who didn't read the books and didn't know anything about the story, this was amazingly well put and explained. Thank you!
I got bored and checked the characters'/actors' handedness while rewatching. I noticed an interesting easter egg of sorts: Mat turned left-handed between seasons.
23:36 You missed one! Unbelievable! 😂 Callback to 1e3 where Thom recites a prayer for the dead Aielman "may you find water and shade, warrior of the *three-fold land*".
25:52 Another one! Lauren, you're slipping 😜 1e2 when Moiraine asks Egwene what she knows about the 3 oaths, Egwene answers they were taken to end Artur Hawkwing's siege of the White Tower. So he was the king that Liandrin mentions.
This is the goodest review so far. Love how it can apply to both show and book fans with a minimum of spoilers that only the book readers pick up on, masterwork! Between the S1E7 cold open and watching Aviendha fight in this one, when we meet the rest of the Aiel in various fights and battles and also eventually have the battle at Dumai's Wells it will be that much more exciting!
Your breakdowns are amazing, it helps so much to understand the show as someone who has not read the books. Amazing job, honestly you help keep the community going. Keep it up!
Agreed. He explained so much that I had no idea of or it just went over my head as I watched it. It will really help in my enjoyment of watching the episodes now that I have more insight. It has really occurred to me, watching the Unraveling the Pattern episode explanations, how the author of these books was such a genius in creating such a new and intricate world! Many thanks, Unraveling the Pattern!
Your video breakdowns are insanely good and fun to watch easily the best fan created content. And the Arrested Development memes are fire. Such a treat that they were three of them this time. I can’t wait to see rand in a fancy $5000 suit coat/gob meme
Liandrin mentions a great king to Nynaeve as she explains why the Aes Sedai bound themselves to the Three Oaths. Its reminiscent to s1e2, where Egwene named that great king when Moiraine asked her what she knows about the Three Oaths. Just like in the books, its important to take note of every conversation, because information are being sprinkled throughout, and you have to connect the dots to see the bigger picture.
@@Louis-si4ci I'm at over 20 rereads and I still find new stuff, especially in this current reread after S1, and probably some more after S2 too... No matter what bookcloaks say, the showrunners (Rafe and Sarah foremost ofc but prolly others as well) know their stuff!!!
Great video! I love how Lauren made it spoiler free yet gives a ton of hints. If a new reader or a WoTcher complains about too much exposure, they don't know WoT like we do.
Funny how Liandrin brings the horses thru the Ways when in s1 Lan or Moiraine said horses would die in there. Another “I hope they forget” bit, but I seem to recall Rafe or Henney saying they did that cuz IRL the movable set pieces built for the ways during COVID restrictions meant they were too dangerous for horses & they’d prob break legs (which also IRL means death for a horse. So the truth an Aes Sedai tells you isn’t always the truth you think you hear 😂😂)
What a great video you made for non-book readers like myself! Wow I understand better some of the subtleties and nuances shown on the show! Thank you and please keep them coming for Season 3
Enjoying your breakdown and optimistic openmindedness. I haven't read the books, your videos have make more sense and the show that much more enjoyable....keep it up 💯
Absolutely loved your inclusion of the map with their movements. What if you have a video series only dedicated to narrating like that with the map where everyone is during each episode? Then we could share them with show only watchers to help them understand things better! No spoilers, just context like you're so good at doing. I wish they used them in the show, but this could be really fun!
*the Hailene isn’t the Return. The Hailene are “the Forerunners” or “Those who come before”. The Corenne is the Return (which hasn’t happened in the show yet)
They might be! 😘 That was a fun shout-out. I don't think Anvaere is a df, but Barthanes has "I'll take the easy way out to get back into power" all over his polished face!
I can't help but enjoy the irony of Liandrin going from a world where she hunts male channelers because they are "lesser" or "evil" and then she takes two women to a group that views women who can channel in a similar way to how she views male channelers. Completing the circle for her, as she now has completely succumbed to her evil side.
Ahhh excited to watch this later today! This episode was one of my favorites. I’m so glad they’re leaning into the campiness of the forsaken!!! Ishy and Lanfear playing chicken in the dream world was so funny
“That is ribbed for no ones pleasure”. I nearly chocked to death when he just said that out of nowhere 🤣. Now I need to clean everything up because I spit out my drink😂
There was a great YT video on IMDb's channel called The Making of The Wheel of Time Season 2 Extended Interview. At 12:23 there is a portion about trivia where the Production Designer confirms your thoughts about the seals representing the Forsaken that will be in the show. He even says "the names of each of the Forsaken are hidden in the design" and that each seal represents a specific Forsaken, though English isn't his first language so that could be a language barrier issue.... anyway, I thought you might enjoy that! Great video as always!
I did see that. I've been wanting to talk more about the seals, but this video was already way too long! I have talked about it in greater detail in another video though. It's my "Forsaken Theories" video.
Hi Lauren, I’m sorry if I have misspelled your name, I only have 4% vision so my spelling sucks. I wanted to say that I have absolutely LOVED your videos for about 18 months now. I absolutely adore these videos! The way you describe the frames of the trailers and the stills we got while we were waiting for so so long for the show to come back was wonderful for me as a viewer who struggles so very much with details. I wish very much that I had the ability to support you on patreon because your work on here, especially considering that you have a proper grown up day job (it’s a trap! Run away! Run away!! Monty python style!) is so in depth I feel like you must need some kind of WOT geek spelunking gear because you dig so deeply and methodically into things. I really appreciate the support, credit and joint new conclusions you come to with others online and how you ensure that you let us know who had an idea if it wasn’t yours. You are a lovely, ridiculously clever, dedicated geek and I want to thank you so much for your contribution as a creator because your channel is accessible for people with vision impairments and your voiceovers and methodology seems to me to be like accidental but extremely well done audio description! Thank you! Bry and my guide dog Miss G
Wow, thanks so much! I really appreciate you and this kind feedback! It makes my week to know my videos are helpful! Please don't worry about supporting me on Patreon. Just watching and commenting like this are so so appreciated!
@@UnravelingthePattern you’re so welcome! As I said above, you deserve to be the recipient of this kind of praise. You talk a lot about how you like to take the positive side of things and as somebody slowly working their way through the books, I appreciate that too. I’m so sick of people piling on the hate train for this series. They do it like this is the Witcher and the producers and writers hate the work they’re adapting- no it’s not! It’s so not! People need to acknowledge Rosamond Pike’s role as a producer and also maybe put on one of the WOT books she reads because she is one of the best fantasy narrators I think I’ve ever heard and being pretty much blind, I promise I’ve heard a LOT! Sorry, this is way too long. I just want to give you the credit you deserve as a creator who doesn’t needlessly criticise. It makes the flaws you discuss in the adaptation sort off urgh, I want to say mean more but that’s not exactly the right turn of phrase. I guess that when somebody is a very pleasant and positive person who always looks for the best in things, when even they have to acknowledge a fault, one stops to listen and ponder and come to their own conclusions but when people are just out there saying “this is crap! What are they doing? They can’t act! The sfx are so bad I could do better! How clunky is this plot? Why did they put this stupid thing in and then ignore something that’s actually important?” On and on, you blank out and don’t even hear them because it’s clear they don’t actually WANT the show to be good. They’re happy hate watching it instead and then making content about hate watching it and saying robert Jordan would have hated every second. No. You’re the opposite of that and thus, your criticism holds much more weight with me because you’re not the polar opposite of the haters, one who refuses to admit a single fault, which is just as annoying, you’re nice and you’re smart and you have much to offer. I’m going to stop rewriting my post graduate thesis now! Sorry! I only submitted it three weeks ago and it was about musical theatre fandoms and fandom studies so I get very passionate about it after having lived it for three and a half years! I don’t want to delete this though because you do deserve to be made aware of how you foster such a positive and nurturing section of the fandom.
I really liked this episode, especially the scenes with Aviendha en Perrin! I did find the transition from Nyneave saying to Elayne: "Where is Egwene?" to them already arriving in Falme a bit weird. Could have used a scene where they see Egwene captured or something like that. But other than that it was a great episode!
Yeah I think that scene suffered a little for not having the Min interactions and not having the interactions between Egwene and the sul'dam (which I expect they're saving for ep.6). In the book iirc we didn't see much of Nynaeve and Elayne's efforts except like lightning bolts in the distance, so maybe they should've expanded that fight more for the show. I wonder if they're making it so Nynaeve just can't really do regular weaving besides her big outbursts? I bet we'll see some action from her in the big upcoming fights though.
Great video and explanations. Even for book nods or plot twists I had already realized, it enhanced my understanding and/or validated, so gratifying as well as enjoyable! I look forward to the earlier Episodes, but no pressure! These are worth waiting for.
Regarding the Black Wind: during this time in the books, someone (implied to be Padan Fain) had it following Rand to whichever Waygate he tried to enter. Not only did this force Rand to use the Portal Stone to reach Falme, it would have kept Machin Shin busy so that Liandrin could travel there from Tar Valon herself unmolested.
In the book, as Egwene says to Liandrin something about attracting/avoidung Machin Shin from Moiraine, Liandrin says: "Moiraine does not know as much as she thinks"
I didn't see the bit about Lan fear and the True Power being pulled from the shadows... That was a really nice touch! (I did catch the Saa, amd even though it's not cannon, I think it's a good inclusion that differentiates the Forsaken from 'normal' channelers!) Cheers!
Fantastic commentary. Thanks for skipping to the most recent episode. P.S. This might only be the second time I’ve ever left a comment on UA-cam. Since I’m told that helps your channel I’ll try to do it more often. If anyone’s content deserves a boost, it’s yours.
Thanks for all your great work explaining all these small and big details of the episodes. It helps us non-readers of the book series, to understand a bit better what's going on in the story. I have enjoyed watching the TV series so far. I just wish we had more episodes within the season so they could explain and develop better all those details.
I just have to say, Jessica Walter/Lucille Bluth as "Lanfear" at 15:18 made me laugh out loud embarrassingly hard. I did not expect Arrested Development to work so well for WoT memes. As always, thank you for all the time and effort you put into making these! The production quality is unbelievable.
Another fantastic breakdown Lauren! This season has just been one great episode after another. If this keeps up I hope it really elevates the show awareness and hopefully budget and episode count or options like Grolm come to be!
14:40 hysterical 😂. So far this ep is probs my favorite--maybe just because there was no weird Lan stuff and virtually no White Tower silliness. Finally feels like we're picking up the pace.
I hadnt noticed Ishy and his caresses but great catch. I also think it fits with his "father of lies" title - the touches feel paternalistic, like he is expressing his care but also his control over the subjects via his touch like a father.
I would like to concur with the other comments about all the top quality content you have been putting out since season 2 started. Its much appreciated. I agree that Ishamael is coming across as oddly sympathetic and easy to understand. The actor is really killing the role and I hope they keep him around. But for someone who wants to end all the suffering he seems quite happy to let suffering happen in his presence. He did not look the least bit bothered about Egwene's painful introduction to the collar. I'm wondering for all his sage words is it a case that its his suffering he cares about and not so much anyone else? On the point of did Liandrin and could she/did she maintain a shield on the girls vs tie it off, I've seen some suggestions that regular Aes Sedia don't know how to tie off a weave because they had to maintain a shield on Logain. There is a point later in the books that speaks to this but to avoid spoilers its possible the Aes Sedai know how to tie off a weave and could have done that with Logain except for spoiler reasons that might not have been a good idea so they maintained the shield instead. if that is the case Liandrin could easily have shielded the three girls in the Tower basement, tied off the shields then taken them into the ways with no issue with the Black Wind.
I found it so funny when people started complaining about the skin tone of the people of the Two Rivers when the show was initially announced. The Seanchan royalty are 'of the blood'. The most royal of whom are all black or dark skinned. This kind of implies that Artur Hawking was also dark skinned, which potentially also means Manetheran people were dark skinned.
Fabulously unraveled as per usual, boy what an epic episode!!! 😀 My hubby is a non-book-reader, and he just loves your videos! He is almost as anxious for those as for the episodes themselves 😅For me its also super fun as others mentioned, confirming some of my spottings or theories, and showing me all the things i missed 🤪Last but not least watching your video makes us want to immediately rewotch the episode, so there is that benefit as well 😁
This episode reviving the "Laila was a Dark friend" theory is just... Ugh. In my view: 1. She wasn't trying to attack Perrin, people read jnto some awakward blocking/camera work. 2. The dream was clearly Ishy's doing, which is why we see the flashes if Ba'alzamon in it. The message of the wolf chewing on Laila in the same place as her axe wound is Ishamael telling him "The wolf is you Perrin, you are an animal, you are a monster, that's why you killed her." 3. Elyas thinks Perrin should be like him, that he should reject civilization and come run with the wolves. He was not accusing Laila of being a darkfriend at all. He brings her up for emphasis, to say "No humans are your pack, not even the one you loved the most." 4. As much as I disliked the writing choice in the first place, to have Perrin accidentally kill his wife and then give him an "out" for his guilt by making her Secretly Evil All Along would be even worse.
I haven't read the books and for some reason Amazon doesn't have the scene trivia anymore so I dont always understand what's going on, videos like this are helpful to add context that the show doesn't have for people who have not read the books.
Great video Lauren. I wish many FB posters would watch your videos and Jon from WoT Up. You present such balanced views and I think it is great you focus on the similarities to and the little details in the books the show has picked up on rather than focus on the differences. To me, the core of the story is still there. and the show is recognisable as the books I have read 3 times - with some good changes and some not so good.
CORRECTION: "The Hailene" is not "the Return." The Hailene means "The Forerunners" or "Those Who Come Before." They were sent to begin the Return, which is the "Corenne."
Episodes 3 & 4 Unraveled aren't out yet! I wanted to jump to the current episodes and catch up later. Love you all!
These unraveling episodes are worth waiting for 👌🏽
Ah, was just wondering if I had a brain fart. Thanks for the heads-up?
Another little precision you might want to add is the fact that S1 already introduced the fact that the Oaths were sworn coz of Arthur Hawkwing, in E2 when Moiraine asks Egwene what she knows about the 3 oaths.
Where's episode 3 and 4 makes no sense 5 is out?
@@kerlek2111 please be patient. I'll catch up as soon as I can. This is just a hobby for me. Please read the full pinned comment or watch until the end of this video for an explanation.
Sails “ribbed for no one’s pleasure” 😅😂😂😂 I’m dead!
Lol me too! #dead 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Classic
Loooooool
I came here to say the same thing! I laughed for way too long over that.
Yeah this was my comment too lol
8:00 I have to believe that Ishamael put "I have won again Lews Therin" in skywriting at least once 😂😂😂
I like how Dain tells Perrin "be careful, Avi was an arm breaker!" Valda later appears with his arm in a sling 😀
I loved that too! I could've easily talked about this episode for 10 more minutes but I haven't seen my family for a week 😅
I did not noticed that :/
When I first saw the sling I thought it was showing he is still injured from getting stabbed by egwene, but I like that Aviendah broke it
yes!! Lots of people didn’t spot that but I thought it was a hilarious sidebar.
Wasn't Valda still recovering from the last season because he had an encounter with the wolves. This is why Dain also said there are no wolves here
"The best new character in the show- a dog named Lady" and "Lady, the goodest dog" - excellent stuff
A bow to GoT perhaps? Lady was Sansa's direwolf. I always wanted to know if Atuan's Mill was Jordan's bow to Le Guin's second Earthsea book, the Tombs of Atuan or just a coincidence...
And she kinda looked like the Tramp.
13/10 Lady is an avatar of the Light
@@Swiergotka78I bow to your casual knowledge and recall of other fantasy shows and books - could never quite get into the Earthsea books, maybe if I’d found them when younger. I just hope we haven’t seen the last of Lady, I feel there is more to her story than has been revealed..
@@Swiergotka78 I never noticed that before (also, Atuan's Mill isn't a very memorable name) but now that I read this comment it makes perfect sense.
Okay, not even 1 minute into the video and I already busted out laughing at work because of "for no one's pleasure". Never stop doing what you're doing, Lauren!
I love that you pointed out Lanfear's face and her swallowing motion once she had turned away from Ishamael -- I missed that on both my watches. Love this cast.
I almost spit my tea out when George Bluth's 'Never promise crazy a baby' came around
Yeah that was a classic line!
As far as Lanfear's headdress goes I was thinking more that it was to represent the moon.
Oh yeah, duh! So many details!
"Ribbed for no one's pleasure"
I had just taken a sip of soda ffs 😆
Someone won the Internet today
Not just High Quality…The Highest of Quality videos mate! 5 stars! Always doing the Light’s work.
Truly my pleasure! Just wish I had more time to do it more!
thank you lauren.
I love how you dance around spoilers, yet try to weave theories with the knowledge available to show only fans! its such a blast to watch as a book fan!
Thanks, I always worry that I go too far sometimes. I appreciate the feedback!
Where can I find a summary or spoilers for the books I'm fallen in love with this world !
I'm only halfway through this and I've already cracked up half a dozen times 😂
Lauren, you're a machine: thank you again for always coming through with the best WOT content. I hope you get the recognition you deserve from Amazon, Rafe etc for all the work you're putting into these videos ❤
Thank you, I really appreciate that!
@@UnravelingthePatternyeah they should give you screeners so you can have your unravel videos ready.
@@Arezoo298195sadly reportedly, screeners are watermarked and you can’t legally use their videos for content.
As soon as I saw her, I yelled out "Cho Chang!"
Really loved all the jokes, memes, and references in this one. Can't wait to see the others!
Thank you!
Love the in depth explanations, comedic interstitials, and most of all MAPS!! This video goes much harder than it needed too! Keep up the great work!
Great catch on the region where Lanfear pulls Rand into the dream, it's such a quick shot I didn't realize the thematic connection to the Dragon's Fang/Flame of Tar Valon. If that's actually the site of Shayol Ghul I'll be very happy.
I don’t know what I’d do without this channel 😭 I haven’t read the books and I come back to your videos after each episode for some clarity and it helps me appreciate the show soo much more. I wish I found this channel when I watched season one.
I'm so glad!
I didn’t think it was possible, but you’ve leveled up in your Unraveling. Truly amazing.
In a previous video, you mentioned they use the word “Dark” too often in place of “Shadow.” I felt the same on first watch, but thinking about the books more, it’s not actually inconsistent in quality (just in quantity). It’s the DARK one or Great Lord of the DARK, DARKfriends or friends of the DARK, DARKhounds. While the entity in whole is most often referred to as the Shadow, it is fairly rarely used in compound words (such as the Aiel calling Myrddraal “shadow man” or darkfriends “shadow runners”). The word “dark” is certainly not uncommon, and I see the two as essentially canonically synonymous.
Full book spoilers to follow….
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The show has really captured the essence of the Forsaken. Ishamael isn’t Ba’alzamon insane, but he’s remarkably manipulative and comes right out and states the fact of his true loyalty to the Dark One. And Lanfear is just as competent and unhinged as in the books. One can understand how she ends up helping the Light, even if not truly by intention. And “the boys” are incompetent in the books. For all their wheelings and dealings, Aginor, Balthamel, Be’lal, Rah’vin, Sammael, and even Demandred don’t achieve as much as they should. Sure, there were reasons why each fails, but ultimately none was as cautious as he should have been.
Not sure yet whether Moghedien being “crazy” implies she’s absorbing Semirhage’s persona or whether Semirhage is part of Lanfear’s personality in the show (notice she wears black in T’A’R).
About the idea that Lanfear or Moghedien is absorbing Semirhage, when Moiraine says that what we know about Lanfear is that she loves cruelty without reason, it feels more like S. than pure L. Yet, it's her that gets involved with the Seanchan, not Ishamael, so I think they might just split her parts in various other Forsaken. For instance, I think that it might indeed be Moggy that will play with the male adam, as her role after that event could easily be taken by Graendal. Of course, both of their fate are very interesting so they'll have to choose either one, but oh well!
@@roxelaneelmira4678 I like your hypothesis. I’ll be curious to see who’s responsible for using the Domination Bands. Given how Lanfear is dressed in T’A’R at the end of episode 5, I’d surmise it could actually be Lanfear, but having Moghedien do that piece makes sense too. Loving the show right now!
@@mcina001 Oh Lanfear with the male A'dam would make sense.
"Fine, if I cannot convince you to love me normally I will force you to do so" kind of thing.
@@gokbay3057 Exactly. And beyond that, having him strangle his lover would fit perfectly.
On the other hand, Lanfear’s gotten more 2 or 3 months of Dragon bone already. Not sure any of the three ladies will top that going forward!
Has she though? I think that's "dream bone." Also, I have a feeling Lanfear is probably pretty selfish in bed, which doesn't exactly sound fun all of the time.
It's 7:20 in the morning and I should go to bed but you're damn right I'm clicking in to this 30 min UTP video. (and not gonna lie, that thumbnail helped) 🤪
edit: 8:50 "pulls from the shadows" ohhhh dang ok that is dope
14:05 "i'm not entirely convinced Ishamael is even evil"
this show is going to literally turn us into darkfriends isn't it...
Thank you so much for your videos. I have never read the books and like the show but feel I have soooo many gaps in knowledge. Your videos truly make all the difference.
30 minutes of this bliss? What a delicious Wednesday! 🔥👑
Came for the Unraveling, stayed for the Arrested Development memes 😊 This was AMAZING. Incredibly well done!
It's really nice to have a youtuber who doesn't just use their whole video to dump on this show. Enjoyed this. Subbed.
Welcome aboard! And thank you!
This might just be grabbing at random things, but High Lord Turak's armor had raven (?) feathers decorating the pauldrons.
Yes! I can't say exactly how I know, but the costume designer said it was a happy accident.
I just want to say thank you very much for these videos! It provides a lot of context and in-depth explanation of things we see on screen for us non-book readers while not spoiling anything. Please continue doing it in season 3!
The wheel of time is life itself!
Each time Rand travels from one area to the next is a time his strength gains more power! This is another good against evil type of story! A very good and complicated story!
Wow! Just wow!!! I really didn't see it but I get it now when you said Ishamael might've love Lewis too, maybe romantically or not. Great in depth unraveling! Can't wait for episode 6 and for your unraveling too. I really wish Moraine can get her powers back. I miss her using it.
I hope so! Thank you!
Love your reviews ❤. I'm always checking to see your uploads. Thank you for taking the time to explain everything to us non book readers.
You are so welcome! I love to hear it's helpful!
I like how when Dain sees Perrin's eyes he kind of forgets about Aviendha and leans away from him in fear.
Egwene while talking to Moiraine in season 1 spoke about the King being Arthur Hawkwing (When Mo was teaching her the Three Oaths).
“Entire culture of punchable faces”. No truer words have been spoken.
Very very happy! Watched driving so of course have to watch over and over, but just hearing your voice sparks some joy❣
Happy WoT Wednesday everyone ❣
I couldn't have asked for a better Ishamael. They really made him have awesome presence, and style!
I find again and again remembering that WoT is by no means a perfect story, and a LOT of elements in there have started poorly developed for a long time, or even different from how they eventually ended up, that having this re-turning of the wheel and smoothing out the sharp edges and adding/subtracting necessary/unnecesary elements is such a massive blessing to the WoT series. I sincerely hope they keep it going for the entire story until the end!
Wow, that is so precisely what I believe, as a quite hardcore fan fo the books myself (have read them over 20 times by now), I'm so glad someone else view it that way!!!
Outstanding as always, so useful for non book readers and great fun for us book readers. ❤
Your video was very informative. From a person who didn't read the books and didn't know anything about the story, this was amazingly well put and explained. Thank you!
You're very welcome! I'm.glad it was helpful!
Man, you’re an absolute legend. Your Wheel of Time videos are BY FAR the BEST in all of UA-cam. Than you!
I got bored and checked the characters'/actors' handedness while rewatching. I noticed an interesting easter egg of sorts: Mat turned left-handed between seasons.
Almost like he's a different person.
23:36 You missed one! Unbelievable! 😂 Callback to 1e3 where Thom recites a prayer for the dead Aielman "may you find water and shade, warrior of the *three-fold land*".
25:52 Another one! Lauren, you're slipping 😜 1e2 when Moiraine asks Egwene what she knows about the 3 oaths, Egwene answers they were taken to end Artur Hawkwing's siege of the White Tower. So he was the king that Liandrin mentions.
I didn't miss them, I just kept them out 😅
@@UnravelingthePattern An Aes Sedai answer. Nice! 😉
Thanks, I like this series. looking forward to S2 E 3 & 4!
I really appreciate all of the time and effort you put into your videos!
Can't wait enough for Episode 6. Hoping moraine to get her powers back can't see her like this.
Um, yes please!
Will be interesting if Rand is somehow the one to untie the Saidin weaves which are shielding her so they can hold off Lanfear together.
I'd love that!
This is the goodest review so far. Love how it can apply to both show and book fans with a minimum of spoilers that only the book readers pick up on, masterwork! Between the S1E7 cold open and watching Aviendha fight in this one, when we meet the rest of the Aiel in various fights and battles and also eventually have the battle at Dumai's Wells it will be that much more exciting!
The fact you caught the dragon fang symbol on the plateau is crazy
Honestly it's the first thing that stood out to me, haha.
Your breakdowns are amazing, it helps so much to understand the show as someone who has not read the books. Amazing job, honestly you help keep the community going. Keep it up!
Wow, thank you!
Agreed. He explained so much that I had no idea of or it just went over my head as I watched it. It will really help in my enjoyment of watching the episodes now that I have more insight. It has really occurred to me, watching the Unraveling the Pattern episode explanations, how the author of these books was such a genius in creating such a new and intricate world! Many thanks, Unraveling the Pattern!
Your video breakdowns are insanely good and fun to watch easily the best fan created content. And the Arrested Development memes are fire. Such a treat that they were three of them this time. I can’t wait to see rand in a fancy $5000 suit coat/gob meme
"Come on!" - G.O.B.
@@UnravelingthePattern yeah like the guy in the $5000 suit is going to give fine red wine to a crazy guy, “come on”,
Liandrin mentions a great king to Nynaeve as she explains why the Aes Sedai bound themselves to the Three Oaths. Its reminiscent to s1e2, where Egwene named that great king when Moiraine asked her what she knows about the Three Oaths. Just like in the books, its important to take note of every conversation, because information are being sprinkled throughout, and you have to connect the dots to see the bigger picture.
Good reminder! I can't possibly remember it all but I try!
You are so right!!! I've read the books fully through 5 times and I still find new links like you say.....
@@Louis-si4ci I'm at over 20 rereads and I still find new stuff, especially in this current reread after S1, and probably some more after S2 too... No matter what bookcloaks say, the showrunners (Rafe and Sarah foremost ofc but prolly others as well) know their stuff!!!
Great video! I love how Lauren made it spoiler free yet gives a ton of hints. If a new reader or a WoTcher complains about too much exposure, they don't know WoT like we do.
Funny how Liandrin brings the horses thru the Ways when in s1 Lan or Moiraine said horses would die in there.
Another “I hope they forget” bit, but I seem to recall Rafe or Henney saying they did that cuz IRL the movable set pieces built for the ways during COVID restrictions meant they were too dangerous for horses & they’d prob break legs (which also IRL means death for a horse. So the truth an Aes Sedai tells you isn’t always the truth you think you hear 😂😂)
Haha, nice
Thank you so much for making these videos! they are so detailed and coherent that even though I know it all I still enjoy playing them
Yes bro!!!! It's arrived and all that I expected and looked forward to. Thanks a million.
No problem 👍
"What Ishy really wants - remember not to believe his lies - " oh shit, I need to watch the ep again.
What a great video you made for non-book readers like myself! Wow I understand better some of the subtleties and nuances shown on the show! Thank you and please keep them coming for Season 3
Enjoying your breakdown and optimistic openmindedness. I haven't read the books, your videos have make more sense and the show that much more enjoyable....keep it up 💯
Absolutely loved your inclusion of the map with their movements. What if you have a video series only dedicated to narrating like that with the map where everyone is during each episode? Then we could share them with show only watchers to help them understand things better! No spoilers, just context like you're so good at doing.
I wish they used them in the show, but this could be really fun!
Sounds fun! I'll consider adding that to my mountainous list of video ideas. Thank you!
*the Hailene isn’t the Return. The Hailene are “the Forerunners” or “Those who come before”. The Corenne is the Return (which hasn’t happened in the show yet)
OHH! Good catch. I'll pin that comment!
They might be! 😘 That was a fun shout-out. I don't think Anvaere is a df, but Barthanes has "I'll take the easy way out to get back into power" all over his polished face!
Glad you saw that reference! I like the Anvaere = Colavaere theory. But I also like the idea that SHE is a DF who made a deal for her son.
I can't help but enjoy the irony of Liandrin going from a world where she hunts male channelers because they are "lesser" or "evil" and then she takes two women to a group that views women who can channel in a similar way to how she views male channelers. Completing the circle for her, as she now has completely succumbed to her evil side.
Fantastic video as usual. You always manage to notice things others don’t and give more context.
Totally worth the wait!
The blue on the suldams'
faces is paint over their scarification. It appears to be their battle makeup.
It's hard to say if it's permanent or not, but I like this interpretation.
Ahhh excited to watch this later today! This episode was one of my favorites. I’m so glad they’re leaning into the campiness of the forsaken!!! Ishy and Lanfear playing chicken in the dream world was so funny
The gif of Lanfear saying "obviously" needs to be meme'd all over the internet
“That is ribbed for no ones pleasure”. I nearly chocked to death when he just said that out of nowhere 🤣. Now I need to clean everything up because I spit out my drink😂
Haha, sorry about that! IYKYK.
Season 2 has completely hooked me in to this show full force. Thank god! It feels like getting a new game of thrones or something!
There was a great YT video on IMDb's channel called The Making of The Wheel of Time Season 2 Extended Interview. At 12:23 there is a portion about trivia where the Production Designer confirms your thoughts about the seals representing the Forsaken that will be in the show. He even says "the names of each of the Forsaken are hidden in the design" and that each seal represents a specific Forsaken, though English isn't his first language so that could be a language barrier issue.... anyway, I thought you might enjoy that! Great video as always!
I did see that. I've been wanting to talk more about the seals, but this video was already way too long! I have talked about it in greater detail in another video though. It's my "Forsaken Theories" video.
Hi Lauren, I’m sorry if I have misspelled your name, I only have 4% vision so my spelling sucks.
I wanted to say that I have absolutely LOVED your videos for about 18 months now. I absolutely adore these videos! The way you describe the frames of the trailers and the stills we got while we were waiting for so so long for the show to come back was wonderful for me as a viewer who struggles so very much with details.
I wish very much that I had the ability to support you on patreon because your work on here, especially considering that you have a proper grown up day job (it’s a trap! Run away! Run away!! Monty python style!) is so in depth I feel like you must need some kind of WOT geek spelunking gear because you dig so deeply and methodically into things. I really appreciate the support, credit and joint new conclusions you come to with others online and how you ensure that you let us know who had an idea if it wasn’t yours. You are a lovely, ridiculously clever, dedicated geek and I want to thank you so much for your contribution as a creator because your channel is accessible for people with vision impairments and your voiceovers and methodology seems to me to be like accidental but extremely well done audio description!
Thank you!
Bry and my guide dog Miss G
Wow, thanks so much! I really appreciate you and this kind feedback! It makes my week to know my videos are helpful! Please don't worry about supporting me on Patreon. Just watching and commenting like this are so so appreciated!
@@UnravelingthePattern you’re so welcome! As I said above, you deserve to be the recipient of this kind of praise. You talk a lot about how you like to take the positive side of things and as somebody slowly working their way through the books, I appreciate that too. I’m so sick of people piling on the hate train for this series. They do it like this is the Witcher and the producers and writers hate the work they’re adapting- no it’s not! It’s so not! People need to acknowledge Rosamond Pike’s role as a producer and also maybe put on one of the WOT books she reads because she is one of the best fantasy narrators I think I’ve ever heard and being pretty much blind, I promise I’ve heard a LOT! Sorry, this is way too long. I just want to give you the credit you deserve as a creator who doesn’t needlessly criticise. It makes the flaws you discuss in the adaptation sort off urgh, I want to say mean more but that’s not exactly the right turn of phrase. I guess that when somebody is a very pleasant and positive person who always looks for the best in things, when even they have to acknowledge a fault, one stops to listen and ponder and come to their own conclusions but when people are just out there saying “this is crap! What are they doing? They can’t act! The sfx are so bad I could do better! How clunky is this plot? Why did they put this stupid thing in and then ignore something that’s actually important?” On and on, you blank out and don’t even hear them because it’s clear they don’t actually WANT the show to be good. They’re happy hate watching it instead and then making content about hate watching it and saying robert Jordan would have hated every second. No. You’re the opposite of that and thus, your criticism holds much more weight with me because you’re not the polar opposite of the haters, one who refuses to admit a single fault, which is just as annoying, you’re nice and you’re smart and you have much to offer. I’m going to stop rewriting my post graduate thesis now! Sorry! I only submitted it three weeks ago and it was about musical theatre fandoms and fandom studies so I get very passionate about it after having lived it for three and a half years! I don’t want to delete this though because you do deserve to be made aware of how you foster such a positive and nurturing section of the fandom.
@brybalaton-chrimes7550 you're awesome! Congrats on your post-grad thesis!
I really liked this episode, especially the scenes with Aviendha en Perrin! I did find the transition from Nyneave saying to Elayne: "Where is Egwene?" to them already arriving in Falme a bit weird. Could have used a scene where they see Egwene captured or something like that. But other than that it was a great episode!
Yeah I think that scene suffered a little for not having the Min interactions and not having the interactions between Egwene and the sul'dam (which I expect they're saving for ep.6).
In the book iirc we didn't see much of Nynaeve and Elayne's efforts except like lightning bolts in the distance, so maybe they should've expanded that fight more for the show.
I wonder if they're making it so Nynaeve just can't really do regular weaving besides her big outbursts? I bet we'll see some action from her in the big upcoming fights though.
Light, the way you are explaining it all is just giving me goosebumps and making me even more hyped
Great video and explanations. Even for book nods or plot twists I had already realized, it enhanced my understanding and/or validated, so gratifying as well as enjoyable! I look forward to the earlier Episodes, but no pressure! These are worth waiting for.
Another fantastic video! ❤
Lady was the best! Loved Avienda’s badassness (with Perrin) and Verin and her Brown Ajah crew…just was a great episode!
Agreed! My favorite so far!
Regarding the Black Wind: during this time in the books, someone (implied to be Padan Fain) had it following Rand to whichever Waygate he tried to enter. Not only did this force Rand to use the Portal Stone to reach Falme, it would have kept Machin Shin busy so that Liandrin could travel there from Tar Valon herself unmolested.
True, but that hasn't been explained at all in the show
In the book, as Egwene says to Liandrin something about attracting/avoidung Machin Shin from Moiraine, Liandrin says: "Moiraine does not know as much as she thinks"
I didn't see the bit about Lan fear and the True Power being pulled from the shadows... That was a really nice touch! (I did catch the Saa, amd even though it's not cannon, I think it's a good inclusion that differentiates the Forsaken from 'normal' channelers!)
Cheers!
Wow, what an outstanding video.
That intro was SLICK! Thanks so much for this, as always.
I remember the first video you posted on Reddit. Your content as continued to get better. Love it.
Thank you!
I was not expecting all the jokes. Love this breakdown 🤣
I have to admit I love how you do these videos you talk like you have not read the books
Fantastic commentary. Thanks for skipping to the most recent episode.
P.S. This might only be the second time I’ve ever left a comment on UA-cam. Since I’m told that helps your channel I’ll try to do it more often. If anyone’s content deserves a boost, it’s yours.
I appreciate that so much! Thank you!
i watch a bunch of different channels for different tv show breakdown and theories. Yours by far is the most descriptive and well made.
Thanks for all your great work explaining all these small and big details of the episodes. It helps us non-readers of the book series, to understand a bit better what's going on in the story. I have enjoyed watching the TV series so far. I just wish we had more episodes within the season so they could explain and develop better all those details.
You're very welcome!
I just have to say, Jessica Walter/Lucille Bluth as "Lanfear" at 15:18 made me laugh out loud embarrassingly hard. I did not expect Arrested Development to work so well for WoT memes. As always, thank you for all the time and effort you put into making these! The production quality is unbelievable.
Thanks so much! Love adding in those bits!
The end of the episode being at shayol ghul is such a great pick-up! Amazing!!
This was an awesome and entertaining watch. Thank you!
Quality here couldn't be higher! Fab work!
Much appreciated!
Another fantastic breakdown Lauren! This season has just been one great episode after another. If this keeps up I hope it really elevates the show awareness and hopefully budget and episode count or options like Grolm come to be!
I hope so too!
Absolutely love this kind of explanatory videos of WOT ❤
14:40 hysterical 😂. So far this ep is probs my favorite--maybe just because there was no weird Lan stuff and virtually no White Tower silliness. Finally feels like we're picking up the pace.
Your channel has the best explanations I've seen on UA-cam
Wow, thanks!
I hadnt noticed Ishy and his caresses but great catch. I also think it fits with his "father of lies" title - the touches feel paternalistic, like he is expressing his care but also his control over the subjects via his touch like a father.
I would like to concur with the other comments about all the top quality content you have been putting out since season 2 started. Its much appreciated.
I agree that Ishamael is coming across as oddly sympathetic and easy to understand. The actor is really killing the role and I hope they keep him around. But for someone who wants to end all the suffering he seems quite happy to let suffering happen in his presence. He did not look the least bit bothered about Egwene's painful introduction to the collar. I'm wondering for all his sage words is it a case that its his suffering he cares about and not so much anyone else?
On the point of did Liandrin and could she/did she maintain a shield on the girls vs tie it off, I've seen some suggestions that regular Aes Sedia don't know how to tie off a weave because they had to maintain a shield on Logain. There is a point later in the books that speaks to this but to avoid spoilers its possible the Aes Sedai know how to tie off a weave and could have done that with Logain except for spoiler reasons that might not have been a good idea so they maintained the shield instead. if that is the case Liandrin could easily have shielded the three girls in the Tower basement, tied off the shields then taken them into the ways with no issue with the Black Wind.
Great thoughts! Thank you!
You never fail to amaze and amuse Lauren. Bravo on another brilliant video. 👏
Thank you so much!
@@UnravelingthePattern I just saw a non reader recommending your unravel video on Bluesky. You’re truly doing the lights work. 👏🥹
Wow, that's so cool! Thanks for letting me know ☺
I found it so funny when people started complaining about the skin tone of the people of the Two Rivers when the show was initially announced. The Seanchan royalty are 'of the blood'. The most royal of whom are all black or dark skinned. This kind of implies that Artur Hawking was also dark skinned, which potentially also means Manetheran people were dark skinned.
Stellar video as always my guy! 🤩
_Librarian lady wizard detectives._ That's the elevator pitch. I'd read and/or watch that.
Just a series of Brown Ajah Mystery Gang. I'd watch that for sure!
Thank you. You are the best when it comes to explaining this show.😊
So nice of you
Fabulously unraveled as per usual, boy what an epic episode!!! 😀 My hubby is a non-book-reader, and he just loves your videos! He is almost as anxious for those as for the episodes themselves 😅For me its also super fun as others mentioned, confirming some of my spottings or theories, and showing me all the things i missed 🤪Last but not least watching your video makes us want to immediately rewotch the episode, so there is that benefit as well 😁
You're the best!
I love the arrested development bits in there!
10/10
Cho Chang!!!!!! Damn! I was wondering where I’d seen that face! From
Ravenclaw to brown ajah! Perfect
I love your unraveling, I wish I had found these before
Better now than never!
This episode reviving the "Laila was a Dark friend" theory is just... Ugh.
In my view:
1. She wasn't trying to attack Perrin, people read jnto some awakward blocking/camera work.
2. The dream was clearly Ishy's doing, which is why we see the flashes if Ba'alzamon in it. The message of the wolf chewing on Laila in the same place as her axe wound is Ishamael telling him "The wolf is you Perrin, you are an animal, you are a monster, that's why you killed her."
3. Elyas thinks Perrin should be like him, that he should reject civilization and come run with the wolves. He was not accusing Laila of being a darkfriend at all. He brings her up for emphasis, to say "No humans are your pack, not even the one you loved the most."
4. As much as I disliked the writing choice in the first place, to have Perrin accidentally kill his wife and then give him an "out" for his guilt by making her Secretly Evil All Along would be even worse.
I haven't read the books and for some reason Amazon doesn't have the scene trivia anymore so I dont always understand what's going on, videos like this are helpful to add context that the show doesn't have for people who have not read the books.
Great video Lauren. I wish many FB posters would watch your videos and Jon from WoT Up. You present such balanced views and I think it is great you focus on the similarities to and the little details in the books the show has picked up on rather than focus on the differences. To me, the core of the story is still there. and the show is recognisable as the books I have read 3 times - with some good changes and some not so good.