What happens to Nayawenne in Drums of Autumn?

Photo credit: Outlander/Starz Image acquired via Starz Media Room
Photo credit: Outlander/Starz Image acquired via Starz Media Room

Outlander Season 4 will likely see a version of Nayawenne in the form of Tantoo Cardinal. What should we get ready for if this is the case based on the Drums of Autumn storyline?

Tantoo Cardinal will play a role that is in “Drums of Autumn” but under a different name. Many people believe the Outlander Season 4 character is going to be a version of Nayawenne, who is an important character for Claire’s development and life in the Colonies.

This is a character we also know doesn’t have a happy ending. Outlander may change that but it doesn’t seem likely. After all, the full storyline is essential for developing Claire’s opinions and understanding of the world.

Now many people want to be prepared. They want to know what happens to Nayawenne in “Drums of Autumn.” As it would seem, there are spoilers from the novel in this post.

Meeting with Claire

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Nayawenne is a shaman for the Tuscarora people. She is the grandmother of the village chief and an extremely insightful woman and beautiful soul. Her visit to Fraser’s Ridge is to see the newcomers and that’s where she and Claire bond.

At the first meeting, Nayawenne shares her knowledge of the plants and herbs, along with medicinal purposes. Considering the time period and different plants to the ones she’s used to, this information is crucial for Claire and she’s extremely grateful.

However, Nayawenne has another role. In a way, she’s a little like Mrs. Graham, with the ability to foreshadow Claire’s destiny.

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Drums of Autumn
Photo credit: Outlander/Starz Image acquired via Starz Media Room

So, what happens to Hayawenne in “Drums of Autumn?”

Nayawenne seems to know that there’s a disease coming and tells Claire that it isn’t her fault. “Sickness is sent from the gods.”

Of course, during times of sickness, people want someone to blame. One of those people who needs someone to blame is Meuller, who loses his daughter-in-law and newborn grandchild. The Natives have to be to blame and Nayawenne becomes one of his victims. Her scalp is delivered to Claire, as if it’s a way to bring an end to the measles disease the spreads around the ridge.

If Cardinal’s character is based on Nayawenne, there’s a chance that the showrunners have opted to change this storyline. The showrunners have saved characters in the past. The difference is this one has a major effect on Claire and the future story and probably should remain the same.

What did you think of the character Nayawenne in “Drums of Autumn?” Would you like to see the storyline change for Outlander Season 4? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Outlander Season 4 premieres on Nov. 4 at 8/7c on STARZ.