Adolin duels Elit Ruthar in the arena, adopting measured Windstance precision rather than reckless aggression. Intending to punish the coalition of Sadeas, Aladar, and Ruthar by stripping their assets, Adolin targets Elit’s Plate with numerous controlled strikes, suppressing the Thrill and refusing flashy clashes. He calmly parries a lethal thrust, guides it aside with his gauntlet, and continues to chip away until Elit’s armor runs out of Stormlight.

With Elit immobilized, Adolin simply shoves him over. Highjudge Istow declares Adolin the victor and rules that Elit forfeits his Plate. Despite the crowd’s boos, Adolin’s prepared armorers claim the prize. In the staging room, Renarin and Navani note the lack of fanfare, but Adolin insists this calculated performance will be remembered and serve his broader goal against the rival highprinces.

Shallan arrives, praises the controlled victory, and banters with Adolin. Navani departs abruptly, still unsettled by Shallan’s presence after Jasnah’s loss. Shallan hints at a “gift” to aid Adolin’s duels—an idea recalled from Gavilar’s biography—that will require a spectacular, awe-inspiring win. She schedules an explanation over dinner and a walk the next day.

Relis, accompanied by lighteyes and Highjudge Istow, confronts Adolin, calling the match an insult and demanding it be invalidated. Adolin counters by offering to fight for Elit’s Plate. When Relis refuses to be goaded, Adolin raises the stakes: six Shards—his, Renarin’s, Eranniv’s Plate, and Elit’s Plate—and invites Relis to bring allies for a simultaneous bout.

Relis accepts a duel in two days, witnessed by Istow. Afterward, Adolin admits the danger of facing multiple Shardbearers at once and looks to Shallan’s promised strategy. Shallan asks what he knows of Highprince Yenev, signaling research that may underpin their planned spectacle.