Chapter 246

Hoid sits in a waiting room for a coachman position, reflecting on Dalinar Kholin's unexpected and brilliant decision to confront Retribution, forcing the Shard to abandon Roshar and creating an opportunity for the world's survival. After being hired by Miss Grimes, Hoid acknowledges that he must now travel to Scadrial and eventually seek out Valor to build alliances against the threat Retribution now poses.

Hoid waits in a hiring office, philosophizing about art and improvisation to the other applicants. His thoughts turn to Dalinar Kholin's audacious move: rather than allowing the problem of Retribution to be quietly delayed indefinitely, Dalinar provoked the Shard into immediate action by forcing him to leave Roshar to deal with greater external threats. Hoid marvels at how Dalinar found this improbable solution—one among infinite possibilities—and understands that it was born from necessity rather than predetermined planning. This gambit gives Roshar a chance at survival, though it will face significant hardship. Hoid reflects that few will understand Dalinar's sacrifice, but expects Dalinar's story will eventually be told. When called for his interview, Hoid meets Miss Grimes, the Ladrian house steward, who hires him despite his lack of references and odd demeanor, noting that the previous coachman drove off a cliff and the position has been difficult to fill. Hoid accepts the job, which begins tomorrow at six. As he leaves, he contemplates his next moves: helping guide the crisis on Scadrial, then seeking out Valor, an old enemy, to build alliances against Retribution. He acknowledges that Dalinar has inadvertently manipulated not only Hoid but all the Shards, and he departs with determination to make the most of this unexpected opportunity.