Chapter 12

Shallan and Adolin prepare to depart Lasting Integrity with the Windrunners, observing the deadeyes returning to Shadesmar and saying goodbye to Kelek. They take flight on Gallant toward the Azimir Oathgate, where Shallan learns that Navani has become a Bondsmith and that the tower has been awakened.

Shallan watches as Adolin arrives on Gallant, his Ryshadium, laden with weapons despite claims of traveling light. They observe dozens of deadeyes walking into the bead ocean, and Maya explains they are lost Blades—those abandoned so long that people have forgotten about them, causing them to fade from the Physical Realm and wander Shadesmar eternally. Shallan resolves to help them once the current crisis ends. Vathah practices his Lightweaving skills with Mosaic and reveals he is enjoying Shadesmar, though notably blushes when discussing Ishnah. Shallan chooses Vathah and the other soldiers to take the longer route home while she and Adolin fly with the Windrunners. Before departing, Kelek warns her about her dual bonds and offers cryptic wisdom about illusions and the nature of light and Investiture, noting that Lightweavers once gave substance to their creations. Shallan hugs Kelek, moved by his loneliness and desire to improve. The Windrunners distribute glass masks and use Lashings to lift everyone into the air. Drehy reveals they are heading to the Azimir Oathgate and mentions that Navani has become a Bondsmith and that the tower has been awakened, information that surprises Shallan. As they fly across Shadesmar, Shallan admires Adolin's joy while riding the flying horse, but their journey is interrupted by an attack.