An epigraph questions the identity of a ninth Unmade—possibly Dai-Gonarthis—and speculates it may have destroyed Aimia.

Dalinar, isolated after a contentious meeting, laments his secrecy and how deftly the enemy exploited each monarch’s fears. As he debates the Stormfather about humanity’s origin in Shinovar, Dalinar vows not to repeat past sins, even as the Stormfather insists men are rarely content with their bounds.

The Stormfather clarifies the Recreance: not merely the revelation that humans were not native, but Radiants’ fear they would destroy Roshar as their ancestors had another world. With Honor dying—raving about Dawnshards and warning Surgebinders would ruin Roshar—Radiants broke their oaths. Dalinar rejects abandoning his, determined to protect the world.

Outside, Dalinar intercepts Bridge Four as they quietly depart. Teft, Sigzil, and Leyten question the moral ground of the war and choose to return to Urithiru to hear Kaladin’s judgment. Dalinar cannot dissuade them.

The meeting dissolves. The Azish avoid the Oathgate, with Vizier Noura declaring the powers and Oathgates dangerous and moving to wait with their fleet. Queen Fen remains out of necessity—an army approaches—but offers only grim practicality. Finally, Taravangian apologizes and severs ties, leaving Dalinar alone. The Stormfather accuses Dalinar of living a lie and hints at a buried guilt, driving Dalinar back to his quarters in quiet anguish.