Though she can be cruel, Liandrin’s character runs deeper than that.
This development shows her as more than the cold and vicious character she seems to be.
Though even a soft spot for her family doesn’t excuse her actions, she perhaps deserves some pity.
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But even that doesn’t earn Nynaeve’s trust.
There, she finds Liandrin with an elderly man who is clearly in pain.
This moment shows Liandrin has a heart, even if it rarely appears.
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She admits that she hid him for his safety but kept him near for herself.
Liandrin bitterly discusses the experience of watching those she loves age and die.
The pain Liandrin has experienced is evident.
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With the longevity given by the One Power, she has watched generations die.
Liandrin’s actions go further than that.
Liandrin manipulated her into working for the Dark.
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Liandrin unashamedly uses and hurts those around her for her own means.
She certainly is protecting herself above others, but she at least prioritizes her family.
Why Is This Change Significant to ‘The Wheel of Time’?
Ultimately, Liandrin serves the Dark, but not just because she can.
The pain in her past and whatever she was promised to ease it led her to that point.
This creates complexities for the character, giving her a solid motivation for her evil actions.
Her situation earns her a little sympathy, though it cannot excuse her deeds.
Yet it explains her choices, making her a better and more complex character than before.
New episodes ofThe Wheel of TimeSeason 2 premiere on Fridays on Prime Video.
