The Forsaken
Thirteen traitors of legend, freed to unmake the world once more.
The Forsaken are the thirteen most powerful channelers who served the Dark One during the Age of Legends before being imprisoned in the Bore at its sealing. Once known as the greatest heroes and scholars of their time, they were seduced by the promise of immortality and power from the Shadow, ultimately becoming the primary antagonists driving the conflict of the Third Age. Their release marks a pivotal turning point in history, as they seek to break the world's seal on the Dark One and usher in an age of eternal darkness.
- Leader
- None (The group has no single leader; each Forsaken acts independently or in shifting alliances)
- Total Count
- 13 (Shai'Tan is their master and distinct from this count)
Lore & Background
As the final battle approached, the remaining heroes managed to seal the Bore, trapping the thirteen most powerful traitors within it. They were suspended in a state between life and death, preserved by the Dark One's influence until the seals began to weaken centuries later. Upon their release, they found a world vastly different from the one they left: technology had regressed, the Aiel had vanished into the Waste, yet the terrible truth of male channelers driving themselves mad remained well-known history, not lost knowledge. Despite these changes, their power remained intact, making them the most dangerous individuals in existence.
In Their Own Story
For three millennia, they slumbered outside of Time, only to awaken in a world that had forgotten their names. Now, they move like ghosts through history, pulling strings from behind thrones and battlefields alike. Their return turns political maneuvering into open warfare, as each Chosen seeks to secure a place in the Dark One's new order while hunting the Dragon Reborn.
Reader's Guide
The release of these individuals sets the stage for the final reckoning of the Age. While their shared goal is freedom for the Shadow, their personal ambitions often lead them to sabotage one another, creating opportunities for the Light to exploit their disunity. The conflict between Chosen and heroes defines the era's struggle, culminating in Tarmon Gai'don.
Did You Know?
- The number thirteen refers specifically to the original group of Chosen; Shai'tan is their master, not a member of this count.
- Not all were released simultaneously; some emerged early in the series while others remained trapped until late events.
- Though given as an insult by the Light's forces during the War of Power, they reclaimed 'Forsaken' as a title of pride.