At the beginning of The Eye of The World, Thom is in Emond's Field, having arrived only a couple of days before Bel Tine. He is uncomfortable around Moiraine, whom he quickly recognizes as Aes Sedai. He hides in the hayloft of the stables and insists on joining Moiraine, Lan and the three boys from Emond's Field when they leave; Moiraine does not refuse him.