THE WHEEL OF TIME Gives Us a Not-Quite Musical Episode in Tanchico

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As a captivated connoisseur of cinematic spectacles, I must confess that the enigmatic showrunner of “The Wheel of Time,” Rafe Judkins, teased us some time ago about an upcoming musical episode. Fast forward to season three’s sixth installment, and lo and behold, a touch of music and merriment graced the gloomy narrative tapestry of this series. Indeed, “The Wheel of Time” did not disappoint, seamlessly weaving in a musical interlude that resonated deeply with the audience. Let me share with you the events in Tanchico that have left us yearning to pack our bags and relocate immediately.

In this installment, I, along with Elayne, Nynaeve, and Mat, find ourselves in the bustling city of Tanchico on a mission to track down Liandrin and the Black Ajah. Our objective is clear: we aim to locate the missing pieces of the a’dam, which Liandrin seeks to ensnare, collar, and control Rand, the Dragon Reborn.

Our strategy involves treading lightly, asking around discreetly, and conducting thorough investigations. However, maintaining a low profile in a city like Tanchico is easier said than done.

The reason is quite clear: Tanchico exudes an infectious energy. Situated offshore, it boasts a bustling dock area teeming with vendors and trinkets. The city’s inhabitants are busy, each pursuing their own agendas. Life in the streets is lively, filled with people relaxing, socializing, and even gambling. It seems everyone here is transient. Eventually, Nynaeve and Min find themselves in a local bar, engaging with the locals and exploring the surroundings. Min suggests they unwind with a drink, and while it’s not an incorrect suggestion, Nynaeve could certainly use some fun. After taking one drink, they indulge in a few more. Truth be told, Nynaeve deserves a good time. This leads to a crucial conversation with a man who shares vital information. He discloses that he has encountered Liandrin and there are rumors that her spirit returned to Tanchico, taking control at the old manor.

In the market square at night, Matt and Elayne encounter Thom, a wandering musician known throughout Andor. They engage in conversation, but when Thom spots Elayne, he realizes she’s the Heir of Andor. Curious, he inquires about her presence there. Unbeknownst to them, two men also recognize Elayne, and one threatens her with a knife.

In simpler terms, Thom lies hastily about Elayne, claiming she’s drunk and regrets choosing her as his apprentice. To diffuse the tense situation, he suggests she’s pretending to be Andoran royalty. However, when he calls her a gleeman’s apprentice, the men around them request a performance. In Andor, such performances can either ignite the crowd or lead to execution for the performer. Cleverly, Elayne hops onto a table and starts singing “The Hills of Tanchico” while Thom accompanies her with his instrument. By the time Nynaeve and Min arrive, there’s already a full-blown concert happening, with Elayne as the main act. It seems the subtle approach wasn’t an option this time around.

In The Wheel of Time, the lively tune serves as a delightful break from the show’s typically somber atmosphere. It not only breathes life into Tanchico but also highlights its rich and colorful culture. Furthermore, this scene underscores Elayne’s intelligence, one of the series’ most brilliant characters. If Tanchico were real, we’d be rushing to grab our dancing shoes and join the festivities in the streets!

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2025-04-03 16:02