Kaladin, now officially in the Wall Guard under Lieutenant Noro, patrols with a new squad—bantering with Beard, Ved, and others—while covertly coordinating with Adolin in disguise. He notes the tenners’ disdain for “middlers” and struggles to maintain his lighteyed facade as they pass crowded, resentful streets near the wall.

Assigned to guard a grain wagon, the squad pushes through a hostile crowd. The Cult of Moments arrives in violet, self-flagellating and preaching acceptance of “spren of changes,” escalating tensions. Kaladin urges retreat, but Velalant’s men sweep in and seize the escort, drawing the mob away. Back on the wall, the Guard prioritizes holding the perimeter despite turmoil inside the city.

On the climb, Beard explains the Guard’s payments to highlords like Velalant to keep grain flowing and reveals Azure’s first action: assaulting a rioter-held monastery to secure the city’s lone free Soulcaster. Kaladin wonders how they Soulcast without alerting screamers and notices Azure’s odd Shardblade without a gemstone. Beard shares hearing whispers near the palace and eschews glyphwards; Syl and Kaladin debate faith, Honor, and whether anyone is watching.

Alarms sound. The platoon forms a pike-and-shield block while another platoon provides archery cover. Fused strike elsewhere along the wall, testing responses; Kaladin restrains his instincts, follows Noro’s orders, and keeps the formation intact until the attackers withdraw.

Afterward, Kaladin apologizes for preempting commands, but Noro praises his initiative and hints at future leadership. Kaladin requests to aid the wounded, is told surgeons have it in hand, and returns to eat, uneasy about the city’s fraying order and the looming siege.