The interlude opens in the fractured perspective of a darkeyed man wracked by memories of fire and pain. Wagoner Bordin presents him to King Elhokar, explaining the man’s erratic behavior and that Wit briefly traveled with them before abruptly departing. The man appears vacant, occasionally shouting or mumbling.

When addressed, the stranger declares, “I am Talenel’Elin, Herald of War,” and repeatedly warns that the Desolation is near. He recites practical plans for preparation—Soulcasting bronze, training surgeons under Vedel, leadership under Jezrien, preserving knowledge under Ishar, and organizing Surgebinders as Knights—suggesting a rehearsed litany.

Elhokar and Dalinar scrutinize his origins, noting an Alethi accent at odds with his dark skin, and question the source of an unfamiliar Shardblade. Bordin reports the man dropped the Blade and it did not vanish, indicating no bond. Elhokar doubts the weapon is his, while Dalinar focuses on the Blade’s usefulness and asks for Bordin’s continued assistance.

Concluding the interview, Dalinar advises sending the madman to the ardents to seek healing. The man, fixated on being late for the Return, lapses back into his broken refrain. Elhokar accepts the plan, and Dalinar takes charge of the mysterious Shardblade, leaving the larger warning of Desolation unresolved but pressing.