Leaving the royal palace, Shallan rides with Highprince Sebarial toward his warcamp, calming Pattern as he hums on her skirt. Sebarial wakes, notes that she appears younger and different than she had at the meeting, and warns her about sharp tongues in the camps. Outside, Shallan sees an orderly settlement with more civilians than soldiers and remarks on the rounded architecture.

Sebarial proudly explains his strategy: he has invested in permanent infrastructure—rounded buildings, manufactories for textiles, shoes, ceramics, mills, and glassblowing—staffed by permanent residents. He admits to avoiding most plateau runs, paying Dalinar’s fines rather than risking soldiers and chasing gemhearts, confident that his economy will outlast quick profits. The carriage arrives at a modest but refined manor protected by surrounding tenements.

At the steps, Palona—Sebarial’s sharp Herdazian companion—meets them, scolds Sebarial, and quickly teases out Shallan’s true purpose: an arranged marriage to Adolin Kholin and a desire for independence from the Kholin household. Shallan reveals she maneuvered Sebarial into taking her in and implied a generous stipend; Palona promises to see it honored. Their banter establishes Palona’s authority in the household as Sebarial drifts off to his study.

Palona installs Shallan in an elegant suite, discusses practicalities, and agrees to house Shallan’s eighteen soldiers and five slaves, arrange a maid, and coordinate meals. She explains the manor’s storm-cistern running water and warns against early post-storm use. After her trunks arrive, the pressure of recent events lifts, and Shallan, with a secure base and resources, falls asleep.