In winter-weary Hearthstone, thirteen-year-old Kaladin overhears Nanha Terith and Nanha Relina gossip that Lirin stole spheres from dying Brightlord Wistiow and performs “unnatural” surgeries. Irritated, Kaladin pointedly reveals himself, then seeks out his mother, Hesina, who is chipping hardened crem from the town hall eaves.

As Hesina works, she explains why townsfolk distrust Lirin: real healing demands effort and accountability, unlike easy glyphwards. Kaladin voices resentment at rumors and considers his own path—surgeon or soldier—and the social isolation either choice might bring. Hesina admits she once considered a match with Laral to elevate the family, while Kaladin weighs duty and the allure of weapon and battlefield.

Lirin arrives with news: the new citylord has come. The family hurries to the square, joining Tien—cheerful despite mockery from other boys—beside rain barrels to watch the procession. An opulent carriage and soldiers announce Brightlord Roshone, who steps out in a violet coat and old-fashioned takama, surveying the town with disdain.

Roshone moves to leave without addressing anyone until Lirin calls out. Roshone bitterly replies, “You’re the one who let old Wistiow die,” blaming Lirin for his posting to this “miserable” place, then departs. In the uneasy aftermath, Lirin labels the situation a “butcher” in breakneck—neither clear loss nor win—signaling an uncertain, precarious future for the family and town.