Kaladin leads the Windrunners toward the Shattered Plains, feeling steadier after the flight. Syl brings the free honorspren Yunfah to him. As Highmarshal, Kaladin orders Yunfah to try bonding Rlain first, threatening a return to Shadesmar if he delays. Yunfah grudgingly accepts a ten-day deadline and departs, leaving Kaladin hopeful.

They arrive at Narak, now a fortified base. While Navani’s engineers and flying vehicle remain nearby, Dalinar receives reports. He instructs his battalionlord to publicize Ialai’s suicide and to fully occupy the warcamps, asserting control amid growing tensions.

In private, Dalinar confronts Kaladin about sparing wounded Heavenly Ones and the emergent dueling etiquette. Kaladin argues it benefits them, since Fused resurrect and trained Windrunners are scarce. They discuss the need for more honorspren, with Syl noting her kin’s rigidity and fear after the ancient betrayal.

Dalinar then addresses the true issue: Kaladin’s battle fatigue. He details Kaladin’s symptoms and the risk of freezing in combat, insisting he step back from missions. Kaladin protests, fearing he cannot protect his team and unable to speak the next Ideal, but he recognizes the danger of his own hesitation.

Dalinar reframes protection beyond the front lines and promises to present the change as a promotion. He offers options—training, logistics, planning, or diplomacy—and gives Kaladin ten days to choose. Kaladin declines immediate assignment with Windrunner training, fearing it will tear him apart. He masks his anguish as Dalinar departs, reflecting that the day’s “single casualty” is himself.