42. Armor and Teeth

The invasion of Urithiru begins as Raboniel and the Fused forces assault the tower. Raboniel reveals her true interest lies not in conquest but in studying human fabrials and ending the eternal cycle of war through partnership. Meanwhile, Navani orchestrates a defensive ambush on the ground floor using lightning rods against the Regals, while Kaladin delivers supplies to refugees on the upper levels and barely avoids a confrontation with a Regal patrol.

Venli remains in the basement with Raboniel as the invasion commences above. Raboniel dismisses concerns about the Pursuer's obsession with killing the Windrunner and instead tasks him with collecting fallen Radiants alive. Raboniel reveals her contempt for both Fused stagnation and human recklessness, noting that humans' weakness—their inability to maintain what they build—is offset by their creative audacity. She suggests the only way to end the eternal war is through partnership, viewing human fabrials as proof of their value. Venli recognizes Raboniel as far more dangerous than the Pursuer despite his madness. On the ground floor, Navani coordinates a false retreat that lures Regal forces into a prepared ambush using metal pillars to redirect their lightning attacks. After the Regals are decimated by crossbow fire, Teofil's troops push toward the basement while Navani prepares to activate the Sibling's fail-safe. On the upper residential floors, Kaladin delivers blankets and provisions to refugee families. When confronted by a Regal stormform patrol, Kaladin nearly engages in combat but restrains himself, allowing the creature to dismiss him, and continues his supply mission despite his desire to fight.