Chapter 121

This chapter contains three major POV sequences. Dalinar experiences a vision where he inhabits Elhokar's body and fights his younger self, confronting the brutal cost of his consolidation of power. Jasnah encounters the new Odium, revealed to be Taravangian, who offers her a peaceful negotiation before attempting to recruit Thaylen to his cause. Venli meets a mysterious Fused named El who offers protection and elevation in exchange for loyalty, forcing her to consider a dangerous bargain to save the listener refugees.

Dalinar finds himself in a vision inhabiting Elhokar's body before a mirror in the Pinnacle. He senses Elhokar's doubts, insecurities, and desire to live up to his father's legacy, along with faint impressions of his nephew's desperation. When younger Dalinar enters, a brutal fight ensues. Older Dalinar recognizes this as the day that pushed Elhokar toward the fatal mission to Kholinar. As they battle, Dalinar realizes his younger self solved problems through force alone, consolidating power by removing opposing highprinces and breaking the ruling class—actions he questions but cannot undo. Young Dalinar defeats him by shattering his breastplate. The vision ends with Gavinor witnessing his father broken on the floor, revealing that Odium deliberately shaped this vision for the boy to see.

Jasnah encounters Taravangian—or a being claiming to be him—who reveals he killed the previous Odium with Szeth's sword and Ascended to godhood. Despite her logical doubts, she finds his explanation plausible and lacks a method to verify his identity. Taravangian proposes a gentle recruitment rather than coercion, offering Jasnah the chance to argue why Thaylen should remain loyal to the fallen kingdom instead of joining his "victorious" side. He gives her one day to prepare counterarguments before meeting again.

Venli and her group are captured and brought before El, a distinctive Fused with metal horns and shimmering steel carapace. Leshwi kneels before him in fear. El offers Venli elevation to true Fused status and pardons for the others in exchange for loyalty, recognizing that rebellion against a god requires strength. He reveals knowledge of the captive chasmfiends and threatens the listener refugees, making his offer one of survival. Venli demands time to decide, and El grants it, watching them retreat into the chasms. Leshwi admits El is dangerous but suggests his pardon might protect their people. Venli remains skeptical but acknowledges they must discuss whether accepting Odium's offer is necessary to save the listener refugees.