It's a little concerning to Perrin that a channeler like Rand, the Dragon Reborn, finds this whole thing just as puzzling as the rest of them. It was a slim hope, but nevertheless he thought Rand might have known of a ter'angreal or Talent which could transport people like this. Portal stones had been the closest thing Perrin could think of, but Rand is saying this is nothing like it.

Far Madding... Perrin can't remember seeing Rand there, but as much as he Travels it wouldn't help much to place him.

"Why don't we go somewhere we can talk at length?" he suggests. Instead of standing around the plaza where anyone could see or overhear them.