Two days after quelling Taravangian’s traitors, Dalinar meets with allied leaders to assess the situation and plan the Emul offensive. Reports confirm their coastal withdrawal worked, Thaylen ships blockade Veden ports, and the traitors at Laqqi were crushed. Dalinar remains suspicious that Taravangian’s capture fits a larger design.

Updates from Urithiru indicate a hidden device that drops Radiants unconscious near the tower. Navani’s messages suggest safety but delays; scouts confirm the field’s effectiveness. Dalinar opts to keep pressure in Emul while he questions the enemy’s strategy.

Dalinar debates stepping back from command to explore Bondsmith powers after glimpsing Nale’s past in battle. He, Jasnah, and Wit discuss forcing Odium into terms—perhaps by frightening him or by reforging the Oathpact to end Fused rebirth. Jasnah is wary of accidents but agrees to support the Mink’s campaign leadership.

Lyn returns from Urithiru, reporting visible Windrunners on the roof and signs reading “patience” and “progress.” Concerned about possible enemy Lightweaver deception, Dalinar orders covert surveillance from a distance. Meanwhile, Jasnah ostentatiously critiques battle maps, baiting the belligerent Highprince Ruthar.

Ruthar erupts, insults Jasnah, and challenges Wit to trial by swords. Wit accepts and chooses Jasnah as his champion. Ruthar refuses to fight a woman, and Jasnah immediately thrusts her blade through his throat; Renarin rushes in and heals him. Jasnah declares Ruthar forfeit of title in favor of his eldest son and unveils a draft law to end trial by sword. Dalinar, unsettled by her ruthless but effective gambit, resolves to manage the fallout while continuing to ponder how to leverage Bondsmith power to force Odium’s hand.