In the king's Gallery of Maps, Dalinar studies the Prime Map and the Tower plateau, considering how a coordinated force might trap the Parshendi. He meets Highprince Roion and argues that the war has become hollow competition. Dalinar proposes a joint assault to test new tactics, emphasizing complementary strengths rather than raw numbers.

When Roion questions rewards, Dalinar offers to split gemhearts and even promises Roion any first-won Shards, keeping only a second set. Roion, fearing subordination, stalls despite the generous terms and departs, leaving Dalinar pondering patterns in the Shattered Plains and the ancient unity shown in his visions.

Adolin arrives, and after brief small talk, agrees Roion will likely refuse. He reports that Sadeas, as Highprince of Information, seeks entry to question the grooms from the royal hunt. Adolin warns this positions Sadeas to frame House Kholin. Dalinar, aiming to model honor and authority, refuses to block the probe and says he has been counseled—by his visions—to trust Sadeas.

The discussion escalates. Adolin insists their standing erodes and confronts Dalinar about his lapses and visions, arguing they are self-deception. Dalinar maintains he must trust himself and the purpose behind the visions. The standoff ends with Dalinar dismissing Adolin, who leaves shaken, and the fissure between father and son deepens.