The Words that both soldier and surgeon needed to learn eventually. Two halves of one man. A singular lesson. A step forward from what he’d learned in storm and tempest two weeks ago, Words said in agony. This was a counterpoint, learned with a peace that flowed through him and held off the darkness. Quiet Words. Reminiscent of what Teft had learned, and his friend’s wisdom helped now. Kaladin rested his hand comfortingly on Ishar’s shoulder, ignoring the hand at his throat, and spoke them. “I will protect myself, so that I may continue to protect others.”
