I find it hard to believe that the Shadow would send their ONLY seal - Edit 1
Before modification by CatherineSedai at 17/07/2010 12:16:20 AM
We know that the Shadow searched for male channelers for many years before the series, and it makes sense that Ishy would eventually find a willing pupil, whom he could teach, like he also offered to Rand (it's also a bit like Isam's raising). This would explain Taim's knowledge, etc.
Especially that Taim had the Seal strongly indicates to me that he already followed the Shadow, when he joined Rand. Probably he got the Seal from SH, who also ordered him to join Rand.
I agree however that Demandred clearly wasn't involved with Taim or the BT (except for having a few spies there apparently). He has other power bases, especially Murandy now.
Especially that Taim had the Seal strongly indicates to me that he already followed the Shadow, when he joined Rand. Probably he got the Seal from SH, who also ordered him to join Rand.
I agree however that Demandred clearly wasn't involved with Taim or the BT (except for having a few spies there apparently). He has other power bases, especially Murandy now.
If Taim really was given the seal by SH or any other Dark chars, then they gave him the ONLY seal in their possession and told him to go give it to the Dragon. This strikes me as VERY unintelligent strategically. Especially if we believe (at least I do) that the DO knows Rand has to destroy the seals.
Since all 7 seals are accounted for, the DFs can not have any other seals. If they had even one, they could foil Rand's plan to "clear the rubble."
I'm certain they could have come up with some other way to bring Taim into Rand's confidences. This is a big reason I think he switched sides after his first meeting with Rand.