Oathbringer
2. One Problem Solved
by Sanderson, BrandonThe chapter opens with a vivid depiction of the chaos and logistical challenges faced during the aftermath of a conflict. Adolin Kholin finds himself supervising the unloading of supplies in a vast, dark cavern that has been converted into a staging area for refugees and soldiers. Despite the disorder, Adolin is focused on ensuring that the supplies, including alcohol and water, are distributed according to orders from his aunt Navani. His observations reveal the strain on both the infrastructure and the people, many of whom are weary from recent battles. Adolin’s sense of duty compels him to manage the situation with a mixture of authority and concern for the well-being of the displaced.
Amidst the logistical chaos, Adolin’s personal struggles surface as he grapples with guilt over recent violence, particularly the possibility that he may have killed Torol Sadeas. His physical injuries—an aching wrist and a bruise—mirror his internal turmoil. The chapter emphasizes his desire to stay busy and avoid dwelling on his actions, which weigh heavily on his conscience. His focus on minor details and the day-to-day operations serve as a distraction, yet the shadow of doubt about his morality persists. This internal conflict underscores the emotional toll war and leadership exact on individuals like Adolin.
Meanwhile, Dalinar Kholin’s storyline unfolds with a tense scene of political and physical conflict. Dalinar arrives at a scene of a violent confrontation between soldiers, where a highprince’s body has been discovered in the tunnels. The scene is charged with suspicion and chaos, as accusations fly about the circumstances of the death. Dalinar’s authoritative presence manages to restore some order, and he quickly deduces that the body has been left untouched for hours, indicating that the death was either accidental or staged. His investigation reveals the complex and dangerous political landscape, where loyalty and treachery are intertwined with the brutal realities of war.
The chapter concludes with Dalinar’s somber reflection on death and violence, highlighting his familiarity with the sight of fallen men. As he examines Sadeas’s mutilated body, he recognizes the wounds as the work of an assassin—an act that signals deeper intrigue and treachery within the ranks. Navani’s disapproval underscores the gravity of the situation, emphasizing that the political tensions are escalating. The chapter’s tone underscores the brutal, often grisly nature of leadership during wartime, where death is both a familiar and a feared presence, and where every event could have far-reaching consequences.
FAQs
1. How does Adolin Kholin demonstrate leadership and awareness of military strategy during the chaos in the cavern, and what does this reveal about his character?
Answer:
Adolin exhibits leadership by actively managing the situation amidst chaos, such as intervening when workers are unloading supplies without following directives and correcting their actions (“Manifest says beer,” etc.). He also takes charge by ordering the reloading of boxes and ensuring that the setup aligns with Navani’s instructions. His awareness of the strategic placement of taverns along the central corridor shows his understanding of the importance of logistics and infrastructure in supporting military efforts. This demonstrates that Adolin is responsible, attentive to orders, and capable of maintaining composure under pressure, revealing a character committed to duty despite his injuries and internal doubts.2. What are the implications of Dalinar’s discovery of Sadeas’s body and the surrounding circumstances, and how does this scene deepen the reader’s understanding of Dalinar’s character and his perceptions of death?
Answer:
Dalinar’s calm, methodical examination of Sadeas’s body, despite the gruesome scene, highlights his familiarity with death and his stoic acceptance of it. His recognition that the blood has been pooling for hours and his suspicion that the body was moved reflect his keen observational skills and understanding of battlefield and death scene analysis. This scene reveals Dalinar’s experience as a warrior and his ability to remain composed in gruesome situations, emphasizing his role as a leader who perceives death as an inevitable and often familiar aspect of war. His reflection on blood and the violence underscores his deeper understanding of the brutal realities of leadership and conflict.3. Considering the chapter’s portrayal of the chaos within the tower and the political intrigue surrounding Sadeas’s death, how might these events influence the power dynamics among the highprinces?
Answer:
The chaos and suspicion surrounding Sadeas’s murder threaten to destabilize existing alliances among the highprinces. Dalinar’s calm handling of the scene and his assertion that Sadeas was murdered—despite initial confusion—may position him as a more authoritative and trustworthy figure, potentially shifting perceptions of leadership. The scene hints at underlying tensions and rivalries, with accusations flying and the possibility of covert manipulation. These events could lead to a realignment of allegiances, with some highprinces possibly viewing Dalinar as a stabilizing force or suspecting others of involvement. Overall, the upheaval sets the stage for increased political intrigue and shifting power structures.4. How does the chapter explore the theme of death and violence, and what message might the author be conveying about the nature of leadership and conflict?
Answer:
The chapter vividly depicts death and violence, from the chaos in the cavern to the graphic scene of Sadeas’s murder. Dalinar’s familiarity with death and his analytical approach emphasize that violence is an inherent part of leadership in their world. The scene suggests that true leaders must confront death directly and accept its brutal realities, rather than shy away from it. The author may be conveying that leadership involves making difficult, often violent decisions, and that understanding and accepting death is essential for maintaining order and authority. The chapter underscores that conflict and death are intertwined with power, and effective leadership requires resilience and a clear understanding of these harsh truths.5. In what ways does the chapter highlight the contrast between the chaos of the physical setting and the calm, calculated demeanor of the leaders, and what does this reveal about their roles?
Answer:
The chapter contrasts the chaotic scene—workers unloading supplies, children running, soldiers arguing—with the composed, authoritative actions of characters like Adolin and Dalinar. Adolin manages logistics amidst disorder, while Dalinar maintains control during a violent confrontation and murder investigation. This contrast reveals that true leadership involves maintaining calm and clarity amid chaos, guiding others through turmoil with decisiveness and purpose. It also suggests that leaders must be resilient and observant, able to navigate both physical disorder and political intrigue. Their composed demeanor signifies strength, experience, and a sense of duty that transcends the immediate chaos surrounding them.
Quotes
1. “I needed to write it anyway.”
This quote, from the preface of Oathbringer, underscores a recurring theme of necessity and obligation that permeates the chapter, highlighting the author’s sense of duty to communicate even when the process is difficult or personal.
2. “Dalinar was a connoisseur of death.”
This striking statement encapsulates Dalinar’s long-standing familiarity with death, emphasizing his hardened nature and the grim realities he faces. It sets the tone for his analytical and unflinching approach to the violence and chaos surrounding him, especially in the context of discovering Sadeas’s body.
3. “Blood of my fathers.”
This poignant phrase reflects Dalinar’s deep internal conflict and connection to his lineage, especially as he contemplates the violence and betrayal within his family and his role in the larger conflict. It symbolizes the weight of heritage and the bloodshed that defines his world.
4. “We found him like this! Probably tripped on his own knife. Serves him well, the storming bastard.”
This quote from Teft reveals a brutal, almost indifferent attitude toward death, highlighting the chaos and harshness of the scene. It also underscores the suspicion and disorder surrounding Sadeas’s murder, hinting at the underlying tensions and unresolved mysteries.
5. “You stay on the battlefield long enough, and you become familiar with its master.”
This reflection emphasizes how prolonged exposure to violence desensitizes individuals, making death a familiar, almost manageable presence. It offers insight into Dalinar’s hardened worldview and the chapter’s exploration of death’s omnipresence in their lives.