Taravangian laments his declining intelligence and growing frailty, unable to recruit Szeth or risk writing Dalinar for fear of endangering Kharbranth. Refusing to wait for a rare brilliant day, he forces himself to plan from his notes, determined to act despite pain and fatigue.

He reframes intelligence as speed and memory, then compensates by compiling a mortal plan “of a man, not a god.” Drawing on a report about Nightblood, he records that the sword devours Investiture—and souls if deprived of it. He notes Odium’s vast awareness yet a central self, and considers engineering a moment where Szeth, unstable and armed with Nightblood, would strike Odium. The obstacle is timing.

In a mirror he sees Sja-anat, not his reflection, and steadies himself to speak. She identifies that “the other one” touched a child, a general, and Taravangian, speculating the Old Magic and the Nightwatcher were a cover for subtler interventions. Pressed, Taravangian admits he asked for the capacity to stop what was coming, though he doubts he can.

Sja-anat explains Odium’s power is immense but his mind is exposed; power and mind seek different goals, making him vulnerable. Odium is not everywhere, and his Voidspren fear approaching a Bondsmith. Taravangian, who had assumed surveillance of his notes, asks for a way to lure Odium at the right time.

Sja-anat offers gemstones bearing two of her children whose appearance, due to their Connection, will draw Odium’s attention. She warns Taravangian that prior bargains leave him unprotected, then vanishes. Shaken, Taravangian resumes writing, intent on using her lure to align Szeth and Nightblood with Odium’s arrival.