Six years earlier, the elite of Alethkar gather beneath Kholinar for Gavilar’s interment. Ardent Jevena preaches of spirit, mind, and body while Dalinar battles grief, guilt, and the urge to drink. A hooded Soulcaster arrives and instantly transforms Gavilar’s corpse into stone for the royal catacombs. Elhokar, standing before his father’s statue, publicly demands oaths of vengeance; Sadeas and others swear, forming the Vengeance Pact.

Overwhelmed, Dalinar flees the ceremony, spiraling toward relapse. As he fumbles for his chamber keys, a familiar voice reading from an ancient text reaches him. He follows it to Jasnah, who is studying the work from which Gavilar’s final quote came—The Way of Kings, an old, Radiant-associated book. Jasnah reads aloud for hours, and the simple parables about paths and choice give Dalinar clarity and solace.

After they finish, Dalinar and Jasnah share a quiet embrace. When Adolin arrives to discuss an expedition to the Shattered Plains, Dalinar admits he has been a poor father and expresses pride in his sons, vowing to teach Adolin honor. He proposes taking an advance force, outlining a route by river and sea to approach the Shattered Plains ahead of the main army.

Privately, Dalinar decides this plan will mask a detour to seek the Old Magic, hoping—remembering Evi’s faith—that it can transform him. He intends to delay his own ship and swear those with him to secrecy, setting the course for the journey that will change him and influence the coming war.