22. Lights in the Storm

During a highstorm at the palace, Kaladin stands guard while strange red lights appear at the window. After the storm passes, he finally reveals to Dalinar the truth about Amaram's betrayal and theft of the Shardblade, though Dalinar remains skeptical without proof. Returning to Bridge Four's camp, Kaladin encounters new recruit Punio and has a difficult conversation with Shen about why he cannot give the parshman a spear, only to be interrupted by news of an assassination attempt on the king.

Kaladin maintains vigilance during a highstorm at the palace, spotting mysterious red glowing lights outside the window before Elhokar dismisses them. Inside, he observes Adolin sketching fashions and Renarin fidgeting with a metal box while Idrin and the King's Guard maintain watch. Kaladin learns about heating fabrials from Renarin and discusses strategy with Dalinar regarding Adolin's limited success in obtaining duel challenges. After the storm passes and Dalinar emerges from his private time with Navani, Kaladin escorts the highprince partway back to camp and broaches the subject he has been dreading: Amaram's betrayal. Kaladin reveals that he killed a Shardbearer and that Amaram stole the Shardblade and Plate, then murdered everyone who knew the truth except Kaladin, whom he enslaved instead. Dalinar listens but remains unconvinced, stating he needs proof and instructing Kaladin to hold his tongue while he investigates privately. Dalinar also warns Kaladin about his insubordinate attitude before dismissing him. Upon returning to Bridge Four's barracks, Kaladin meets Punio, a Herdazian cousin of Lopen's who has joined their guard unit. Shen then confronts Kaladin, asking directly whether he is truly Bridge Four or merely a slave. When Kaladin explains he cannot arm a parshman without causing conflict with the lighteyes, Shen accepts his enslaved status and withdraws. As Kaladin sits by the fire, Natam arrives breathless with urgent news of an assassination attempt on the king.