Dalinar considers Odium’s appearance in his vision as he stands with the rest of his welcoming committee by the Oathgate, awaiting the return of Kaladin and Shallan after opening the Thaylen Oathgate. Then he and a small contingent travel to the city and witness the destruction caused by the Everstorm.

Dalinar notes obvious distrust from men like Queen Fen’s son and his fellow soldiers. Dalinar lightly pushes Fen’s son into calling for a duel so that Dalinar can use his Radiant powers of healing to make a point: if he wanted to conquer the Thaylens, he would not need to do so with lies and deceit. He regrets the action immediately, wishing he did not have to rely on his old tactics of war and brutality. He discovers he can use his powers as a Bondsmith Radiant to repair the broken temple and statues in Thaylenah. The realization reminds him of Renarin’s healing powers. He summons Renarin to the city so he can heal the many wounded. Dalinar’s actions convince Fen of his honesty, and she agrees to join a coalition of monarchs.