Chapters 24-25 Among the Counsels; Bonds Summary

In Chapter 24, Shalon goes to the Hall of Counsels with Sarene, Harine (a Wavemistress), Cadsuane Melaidhrin (Aes Sedai) and others. Cadsuane asks for an audience with First Counsel Barsella, who more or less rules Far Madding. Inside the Hall of Counsels, beneath the main dome, they look at the device that blocks the Source while on their way to meet with Barsella. The device is built into the floor and resembles an elaborate compass. Barsella arrives, and the meeting begins with formalities and thinly veiled conflicts. Then the device indicates with black light rays that a man had just channeled. If it had been a woman, the light rays would have been red. This upsets Barsella because the device was supposed to prevent anyone from channeling the Power, and a discussion ensues whether...