Though it is certainly possible that Rand will have less and less control over his body and mind as time goes on, there is absolutely nothing to indicate at the moment that he'll lose the ability to channel. He had a hard time with it before Dragonmount simply because of his psychological issues around Lews Therin. Of course, the sickness doesn't make it pleasant, but it doesn't actually prevent him from using the Power.

I consider the medallion important mostly because of the Judas parallel with the thirty pieces of silver. I mean...like I said...


How perfect is that?


It doesn't really presume he's alone. Rand might allow for a proper, honorable duel. Also, Rand need not be aware of the fact that Gawyn is wearing the medallion, so he might well be counting on the Power as a backup in case Gawyn can beat him with the sword (which seems likely, as Rand just lost a hand). And if he doesn't know, no one with him will either, and no one will have cause to fear for Rand's death.

It could also be that those who are guarding Rand are simply those who would be reluctant to kill Gawyn - Andorans. Rand might have the Maidens guarding Elayne, for example.


I really doubt that Rand will try to use the Power on Gawyn when Gawyn has nothing but a sword. Unless, of course, he sees that Gawyn is about to kill him. A really bad time to discover that Gawyn is protected.


Rand prevents that by killing Gawyn at the same time that Gawyn kills him (which is how the legend goes, you know). Once he's dead, he can't be balefired.


Like I said before, I doubt Rand would be willing to use the Power to fight Gawyn, and there is nothing to say that he will have any idea about the medallion.