They didn't leave that late; I think a week or two after Nynaeve didn't come back. It would take a few months for them to reach Tar Valon (Baerlon, Whitebridge, Caemlyn, Tar Valon). And the reference to it is in Book 3 in the chapters (18+) of Mat's healing and subsequent meetings with Lanfear...
This is a nice discussion, Elanda :) Thanks!
Tam and Abell ended up going to Tar Valon to ask about their sons; but they got a fat purse (in gold) from Siuan and Sheriam; and were sent home. So, they tried; but couldn't track the group; which was a side-effect of Moiraine's intent (not allow...
It would have been suicidal to wait for Tam to heal and accompany them. They were on the run with Fades and Trollocs hot on their heels. What should they have done? Wait and invite another attack on the 2-Rivers, killing many innocents? Or flee as fast as possible?
Another thing, why shouldn't...
She's the leader of the group leaving the 2-Rivers. She is the one that knows about the dangers ahead. She is an Aes Sedai, a cousin to a king, raised in the Royal Palace in Cairhien. She is Cairhienen. And she's is one of the two people alive entrusted with the fate of the world. And her army...
What may pass of as Moiraine's manipulation to some is, to me, Moiraine's much needed guardianship. The three boys are still farmers with hay in their hair; who know nothing of the world; who face dangers that are beyond their means and skills; and who's fate decides the fate of the world. They...