An epigraph questions lore about Yelig-nar. In Urithiru, Navani opens the historic summit of monarchs as Dalinar sits withdrawn, haunted since Azir. Bridge Four and various delegations arrive, revealing tensions and priorities through their seating and demands. Early discussion splinters over tariffs, Oathgates, and where to fight, with Ialai pushing invasion of Shinovar and others disputing trade and strategy.

Navani redirects the chaos by leveraging each kingdom’s strengths. She publicly praises Azir’s bureaucracy and asks the Azish to draft procedural codes for the coalition, winning eager buy-in from the viziers. She proposes Thaylenah administer trade and supplies through the Oathgates, which surprises Queen Fen but promises fairness. For Alethi contributions, she offers military aid and fortification expertise to Emul while resisting expansionist plans.

Jasnah argues for entrenchment over opportunistic invasions, and Dalinar reframes strategy around anticipating enemy strikes. Then Navani and Jasnah reveal the decisive blow: Alethkar, including Kholinar, has fallen, and the Kholinar Oathgate is locked from Urithiru. This shifts the room to defense, with Noura noting the enemy’s likely focus away from Emul.

Taravangian worries Jah Keved will be targeted. Dalinar asks for a show of solidarity: multiple kingdoms sending aid so it cannot be framed as invasion. After private consultation, the Azish Prime commits five battalions to defend Jah Keved via Oathgates. The meeting recesses on a note of fragile cohesion.

In the aftermath, Navani and Dalinar speak privately. She notes the costs of coalition-building and his growing distance. Seeking perspective and legitimacy ahead of sending Kholin troops, they agree Dalinar should tour Vedenar at Taravangian’s invitation. Despite progress, Navani ends the chapter feeling powerless, even as she has assembled the coalition’s pieces.