Who is Loial?

Loial is an Ogier, an ancient race. Ogier are long-lived, and their lore with trees is legendary. They built many wonders of stone as well, particularly in the large cities. They created the steddings, places devoid of the One Power but also safe havens. Loial is too young to have left his stedding but his desire to see the world he had read so much about in adventures prompts him to do so. He asks to join Rand on his journey, and though he is refused the first time Rand eventually agrees. He facilitates the group's escape from Caemlyn by locating the ancient Waygate and guiding them through the Ways. In Fal Dara he is greeted with honor, the first time he has felt welcome since leaving his stedding. At the Eye of the World, he pays homage to the fallen Green Man by giving strength to the ancient oak tree, saving it from the Blight.