Navani leads scholars through darkened lower corridors per the Sibling’s guidance, locating a hidden wall gem that opens a secret chamber. When slow infusion threatens their timing, Ulvlk reveals a Thaylen tuning-fork method to draw Light between stones. Using it, Navani activates the mechanism and begins charging a large sapphire atop a pedestal.

Meanwhile, Kaladin checks on civilians and meets Rlain on a balcony. Rlain explains he cannot safely hide among humans and decides to slip into the occupying singers as a spy, trusting Bridge Four and Kaladin’s oaths. Syl, strained by the tower’s condition, vacillates between bleakness and forced cheer as Kaladin returns toward the clinic.

Back below, the Sibling warns Navani that Raboniel, armed with Transformation and dangerous knowledge, intends to corrupt the pillar and that the enemy has reactivated the Oathgate using an Honorblade. Venli witnesses Teofil’s disciplined troops fighting down perilous stairs, exploiting water to blunt stormforms and adapting to Deepest Ones. For a moment, their resolve seems enough.

The Pursuer arrives, shattering the formation with sudden strikes as Heavenly Ones and Regals exploit the chaos; a lightning blast collapses the steps, killing the leading veterans. Raboniel returns to the pillar and senses unexpected Stormlight in the system just as a wave of blue Light hardens into a barrier that seals the pillar chamber. Frustrated plans turn to fascination as she studies the shield.

The Sibling confirms Teofil’s men have fallen and the barrier works. Navani orders the activation gemstone destroyed to prevent backdoor corruption, then organizes a formal surrender to protect her people. Escorted past the dead, she meets Raboniel, who dictates terms: Radiants collected and restrained, humans disarmed, lighteyes stripped of privilege, but the populace spared and allowed to work. Navani agrees. Speaking Alethi, Raboniel praises Navani’s designs and offers to employ her on fabrials—tempting her with access and knowledge—while Navani resolves to consider the role as a means to learn and bide time.