Chapter 73

Sigzil commands Windrunner forces defending Narak against increasingly brutal Fused attacks, implementing a strategic gamble to funnel enemy resources toward a sacrificial plateau while awaiting critical Stormlight supplies from Urithiru. Meanwhile, Venli and Jaxlim approach Leshwi, a Heavenly One whose power has mysteriously depleted, offering her the possibility of joining the listeners by rejecting Odium—a choice Leshwi must grapple with despite her ancient bondage to the god.

Sigzil flies combat operations at Narak, where the Fused have become far more brutal and reckless than in previous encounters. After killing one Heavenly One in aerial combat, he learns eight Windrunners have already died in a single day—a dramatic increase. His squires begin mythicizing him, which he discourages. Leyten reports the battle plan is working, with enemies concentrating forces on Narak Four, the intentional weak point Sigzil designed. However, Leyten reveals no Stormlight shipment has arrived from Urithiru since Dalinar's departure. Sigzil acknowledges Dalinar kept an oath but worries they cannot sustain the defense without those supplies. Managing constant crises—reinforcing gates, planning evacuations via the Oathgate at Narak Two, preparing for the impending highstorm—Sigzil reflects that he has little time for his scientific experiments since Kaladin's retirement two months prior. Another Fused offensive looms, likely targeting the weakened Narak Four. In a parallel scene east of the Shattered Plains at a listener settlement, Leshwi and four other Heavenly Ones sit alone around a fire—their powers depleted, an impossible event. Venli, Jaxlim, and Thude approach Leshwi and reveal that the listeners broke Odium's hold through rejection and by abandoning Ba-Ado-Mishram. They invite Leshwi to join them and renounce Odium. Leshwi hesitates, bound by millennia of service and uncertain if she can truly change, fearing Odium's retribution in future deaths. Jaxlim wisely leaves the choice to Leshwi without pressure. Venli realizes her mother praises her for respecting Leshwi's autonomy—a moment of maternal approval Venli has long craved. Thude then offers to share the Song of the Beasts, explaining how the listeners made peace with the chasmfiends, finally answering questions about their alliance.