The Runes of the Earth: The Last Chronicles of Thomas Covenant — Book One
Chapter 21: Part Two — 3. The Will of the Ranyhyn
by Donaldson, Stephen R.In this chapter, Linden Avery confronts Stave, a Haruchai Master, about her determination to rescue her son Jeremiah, who was taken by Lord Foul. Despite Stave’s warning that her actions could doom the Earth, Linden refuses to yield, asserting her resolve to proceed regardless of the consequences. Stave, though disapproving, chooses not to stop her, acknowledging past mistakes in doubting her and opting to inform the other Masters instead. Linden is left with the grim realization that her enemies now number in the hundreds, but she remains steadfast in her mission.
Linden then turns to the Ramen, seeking their support despite the risks her plan entails. The Manethralls, bound by their reverence for the Ranyhyn who accepted Linden, assure her they will not oppose her. Mahrtiir, eager to prove himself, offers to accompany her, emphasizing his skills in scouting, survival, and combat. Though Linden hesitates to endanger others, she recognizes the practicality of his aid and reluctantly agrees. The Ramen’s loyalty contrasts with Stave’s caution, highlighting the tension between her desperation and the broader consequences of her actions.
A critical question arises when Dohn, one of the Manethralls, asks how Linden plans to return from her journey into the past via a caesure, a rift in time. Linden admits she may need to create another caesure, a dangerous act that could destabilize Time itself and hasten the Earth’s destruction. This revelation underscores the enormity of her gamble—her love for Jeremiah may come at the cost of the world’s survival. The chapter delves into her internal conflict as she grapples with the moral weight of her decisions.
The chapter closes with Linden retreating into solitude, her thoughts turbulent as she prepares for her perilous quest. Liand’s silent companionship offers little comfort, as his naivety about the dangers ahead inadvertently challenges her resolve. Meanwhile, the Ramen disperse, leaving Linden to confront the stark reality of her plan. Her determination to save Jeremiah is unwavering, but the chapter leaves lingering doubts about the cost—both to herself and to the Land she seeks to protect.
FAQs
1. What is Linden Avery’s primary motivation in this chapter, and how does it conflict with the concerns of other characters?
Answer:
Linden’s primary motivation is rescuing her son Jeremiah, who was taken by Lord Foul during their translation to the Land. This drives her to seek the Staff of Law, even if it means creating a dangerous caesure (a flaw in Time). Her determination conflicts with Stave’s warning that her actions could lead to the Earth’s destruction, and with the Haruchai philosophy that no individual life should be prioritized over the greater good. The Ramen, while supportive due to the Ranyhyn’s acceptance of Linden, also express grave concerns about the risks to Time itself (e.g., Dohn’s question: “How will you return?”).2. Analyze the significance of Stave’s decision not to stop Linden, despite his disapproval of her plans.
Answer:
Stave’s choice reflects a nuanced respect for Linden’s past actions and the Haruchai’s historical misjudgments of her. He acknowledges that the Masters have not shared her burdens and thus cannot fully comprehend her choices. By withdrawing to consult the other Masters, he balances his duty to protect the Land with a recognition of Linden’s agency. This moment highlights the tension between rigid principles (Haruchai absolutism) and contextual empathy, as well as foreshadowing future conflicts when the Masters collectively respond.3. How does Mahrtiir’s offer to accompany Linden reveal his character and the Ramen’s values?
Answer:
Mahrtiir’s eagerness to join Linden demonstrates his courage, practicality, and desire to prove his worth. His arguments emphasize the Ramen’s Earth-wise skills (foraging, scouting, and combat) and their devotion to the Ranyhyn, as he frames his aid as care for the horses. The Ramen’s values shine through their unconditional support for Linden once the Ranyhyn accept her, even at great peril. Mahrtiir’s fervor, however, also hints at personal ambition, making Linden question whether he seeks to validate himself rather than purely serve her mission.4. What is the existential risk posed by Linden’s plan to create a caesure, and why does it trouble her allies?
Answer:
A caesure is a rupture in Time that could destabilize the Arch of existence, potentially awakening the Worm of the World’s End and causing total annihilation. Dohn articulates the practical danger: if the original caesure moves on or vanishes, Linden might be trapped in the past with no way back. The deeper fear, which Linden avoids confronting, is that her use of power might accelerate the Land’s doom. This reflects the chapter’s theme of moral ambiguity—whether saving one life justifies risking all creation.5. Evaluate Linden’s internal conflict about leadership and self-trust in this chapter.
Answer:
Linden grapples with self-doubt as she transitions from following others (Covenant, the Giants) to making unilateral decisions. Her reflection—”she needed to be able to trust her own judgment”—reveals her insecurity about imposing her will, especially when Liand’s naive trust contrasts with her awareness of the stakes. Her choice to act despite these fears underscores her growth but also her isolation; she accepts that her path may alienate allies (e.g., Stave) and demand unbearable sacrifices, foreshadowing the weight of her role as the Chosen.
Quotes
1. “‘Your purpose is madness. The Earth will perish, and your son with it.’”
This quote captures Stave’s stark warning to Linden about the consequences of her desperate quest to save her son. It represents the central moral dilemma of the chapter—whether personal love justifies risking universal destruction—and sets up the conflict between Linden’s maternal drive and her responsibilities to the Land.
2. “‘Among us children are precious beyond expression. Yet no Haruchai would permit a greater harm in order to secure the life of any son or daughter.’”
Stave’s statement reveals the Haruchai philosophy of sacrifice, contrasting sharply with Linden’s determination. This cultural difference highlights the chapter’s exploration of ethical boundaries and what one is willing to sacrifice for loved ones versus the greater good.
3. “‘Be at peace among us. You have naught to fear from the Ramen. The Ranyhyn have accepted you. Therefore we may not oppose you, though the peril which you intend for them surpasses our imagining.’”
Hami’s declaration shows the Ramen’s unwavering loyalty to those chosen by the Ranyhyn, even when it means supporting dangerous actions. This quote demonstrates the chapter’s theme of difficult alliances and the weight of acceptance in this world.
4. “‘If I can’t use the first one, I’ll have to make a new caesure.’”
Linden’s chilling admission reveals her willingness to risk unraveling Time itself to save her son. This pivotal moment in the chapter lays bare the extreme measures she’s prepared to take, showcasing the depth of her desperation and the potential consequences of her actions.
5. “For Jeremiah’s sake, she needed to be able to trust her own judgment, but she found that increasingly difficult to do.”
This introspective moment captures Linden’s internal struggle as she transitions from follower to leader. The quote encapsulates the chapter’s examination of self-doubt and the burden of making world-altering decisions without clear moral guidance.