An epigraph voice senses Jezrien being ripped away, noting that though the Oathpact was already broken, a lingering Connection was severed in a way that felt like true death.

In Urithiru, Rlain delivers laundry amid human suspicion and singer scrutiny, deflecting prejudice from workers and harassment from guards. He spots a familiar cremling and recalls Venli’s warning that Voidspren, unable to turn invisible in the tower, now inhabit animals to spy.

Rlain brings supplies to the crowded Radiant infirmary, where humans wear shash marks in solidarity and Regals—posted by the Pursuer—stand watch. He joins Lirin and Hesina behind hanging sheets; they discuss the danger, Leshwi’s claimed protection from the Pursuer, and whether Venli can be trusted. Hesina presses to help Kaladin by getting him precise tower maps, while Rlain notes a scout’s report on the far eastern Shattered Plains, where a large nomadic camp has been sighted.

Rlain wrestles with isolation as perhaps the last listener besides Venli, then Lirin recognizes a worker: Dabbid of Bridge Four. Rlain approaches and tries to guide the mute man to safer tasks, but Dabbid resists and, to Rlain’s shock, finally speaks.

Dabbid delivers an urgent warning: “Kaladin is asleep, and he won’t wake up. I think he’s dying.”