53. Perfection

Adolin defeats Elit Ruthar in a methodical duel by systematically accumulating small damage rather than performing spectacular strikes, winning another set of Shards. Shallan arrives to congratulate him, and when Relis challenges the validity of the fight, Adolin recklessly agrees to duel Relis and another opponent simultaneously in two days, hoping to create the 'spectacular' display his father desired. Shallan hints she has information that could help.

Adolin faces Elit Ruthar in the arena, fighting with calculated precision using Windstance rather than the reckless aggression expected of him. He methodically cracks Elit's Shardplate through numerous small strikes rather than attempting dramatic killing blows, frustrating both the crowd and his opponent. When Elit's Plate finally leaks out all its Stormlight, Adolin simply pushes him over, winning the duel and claiming Elit's Shards. The crowd boos his clinical victory.

In the staging chamber below, Renarin notes the irony that Adolin's longer, technical fight received more disapproval than his previous quick victory. Adolin explains that the win will be remembered for its precision. When Shallan arrives in a violet dress, she enthusiastically praises the duel while Navani awkwardly excuses herself. Shallan and Adolin have been officially courting for only a week. Shallan mentions she's been studying something related to King Gavilar's biography that could help Adolin's duels, but it requires him to achieve something spectacular. She agrees to explain over dinner and a walk tomorrow.

Relis, the current dueling champion and Ruthar's son, bursts in demanding the duel be invalidated, calling Adolin's fight a farce that lacked proper dueling form. When Relis refuses Adolin's challenge to fight for the Shards back, Adolin provocatively offers to fight Relis and another opponent simultaneously. Despite calling Adolin a fool, Relis accepts the challenge for two days hence. After Relis leaves, Shallan questions whether Adolin truly believes he can beat two Shardbearers at once. Adolin admits uncertainty but justifies the reckless commitment as the 'spectacular' display needed. Shallan then asks what he knows of Highprince Yenev, suggesting she has a specific plan.