20. The Coldness of Clarity

Shallan's caravan encounters another group under attack by bandits, and she makes a desperate gambit to recruit a band of deserters to help defend them. Using persuasion and a carefully constructed false appearance, she convinces the deserters that redemption is possible, turning them from potential threats into allies.

As sunset approaches, Shallan's caravan discovers smoke from three sources ahead. Upon investigation, they find another caravan under attack by bandits, with five functional wagons and armed guards remaining. A scout from that caravan, a lighteyed woman, warns them that bandits are regrouping for another assault. Shallan offers to help, but before she can act, arrows rain down as the bandits return. Instead of retreating, Shallan orders Bluth to drive their wagon south—directly toward a second threat: approximately thirty deserters pursuing them from behind. Shallan approaches the deserters' leader, Vathah, using Lightweaving to create an illusory appearance of herself as a noble Brightness with flowing red hair and fine clothing. She appeals to the deserters' desire for redemption, reminding them of the screams from the dying caravan and offering them a chance to become heroes again rather than criminals. Her words stir the group; despite Vathah's attempts to maintain control, nearly all the deserters break ranks and charge toward the battle to help, with even Bluth joining them. Vathah and two others reluctantly follow. Left alone, Shallan collapses in exhaustion, having expended her Lightweaving power. Pattern speaks cryptically about her possessing a power of transformation beyond simple Lightweaving, suggesting abilities she does not yet fully understand. Shallan sketches a prayer of hope while listening to the sounds of ongoing combat.