40. Palona

Shallan departs the king's palace with Sebarial and travels to his warcamp, discovering his unconventional economic strategy rather than military engagement. She is introduced to Palona, Sebarial's Herdazian mistress, and settles into luxurious quarters in his manor.

After the contentious meeting with Dalinar and the withdrawal of Navani, Shallan rides with Sebarial in his carriage toward his warcamp. During the journey, Sebarial comments that Shallan appears younger than he initially perceived, though she dismisses his observations. Upon arrival at his warcamp, Shallan observes it is more civilian settlement than military installation, filled with markets, shops, and permanent residents. Sebarial reveals his strategy of building manufactories, farms, and artisan operations rather than pursuing active warfare—a practice he funds through paying fines to Dalinar while the other highprinces fight for gemhearts. He confides that this economic vision came to him three years prior. At his manor, they encounter Palona, a Herdazian woman of apparent authority in the household. Sebarial introduces Shallan vaguely, claiming he brought her merely to annoy Dalinar, but Shallan privately clarifies to Palona that she came for an arranged marriage to Adolin Kholin and sought independence from the Kholin household. Palona accepts this explanation and arranges accommodations. She shows Shallan to luxurious rooms in the eastern wing and explains household logistics including the running water system supplied by storm cisterns. After Palona departs to find her a lady's maid, Shallan reflects on her newfound safety and comfort before falling asleep.