I-12. Rhythm of Withdrawal

Venli, preaching to Thaylen singers in a Marat cave, is suddenly collected by a Fused and taken to a massive harbor where hundreds of ships are gathering for a grand assault. Rine explains that the Fused are preparing a major invasion force and instructs Venli to prepare to sail with them.

Venli has spent a week in a cave in Marat, living in harsh conditions while delivering prepared speeches to former Thaylen slaves about embracing the rhythms and passions of their ancestors. She notices the Fused restrict her interactions with listeners, leaving her uncertain whether they fear her people's heritage or distrust her for other reasons. She keeps secret the fact that she was present in a vision with Dalinar Kholin. While returning to her cave, a mad Fused abruptly seizes her and flies her down to a harbor where Rine, a tall Fused she knew from Alethkar, stands aboard a ship. Rine informs her she must accompany the fleet as it sails. Venli is shocked to discover hundreds of ships filling the harbor and coves, carrying thousands of singers in what appears to be a massive military mobilization. When she questions why such a large force is needed if the Fused are powerful enough, Rine responds in the Rhythm of Withdrawal—a rare, calm rhythm—explaining that the strongest Fused have not yet awakened and that they are fighting to conquer the world for their descendants before the Fused sleep at last. He directs her to the cabin to prepare, and red lightning flashes across the western horizon as an Odium-sent storm approaches.