Oathbringer
98. Loopholes
by Sanderson, BrandonThe chapter opens with a reflection on the behavior of spren and their perceived personalities, highlighting how some, like Sja-anat, are viewed as individuals, whereas others are seen as forces. This distinction underscores the mysterious nature of spren and their influence within the world, setting a tone of curiosity and uncertainty about these entities. Lore suggests that leaving a city might be necessary if spren behavior becomes strange, hinting at underlying tensions or disturbances that could threaten the social or spiritual fabric of the setting. This introduction establishes the theme of unseen influences and the importance of understanding spren as part of the larger mythos.
Szeth of Shinovar is introduced as he departs a Skybreaker fortress alongside other squires, preparing for a training exercise on the Purelake. The scene depicts a peculiar setup involving poles embedded in the lakebed, each topped with colored powder bags. The exercise is designed as a martial test, emphasizing discipline and adaptability in the face of potential threats like the Desolation. The instructor, Master Warren, explains the rules of the game—throwing powders at opponents within a designated area—creating a competitive environment that challenges the squires’ agility and strategic thinking. This training exercise serves as a metaphor for readiness and the importance of martial competence in uncertain times.
Szeth’s participation in the game reveals his adeptness with Stormlight and Lashings, showcasing his skill and comfort in the air. Unlike the others, Szeth relishes the challenge, enjoying the freedom of flight and the precision of his maneuvers. His interaction with his sword underscores his internal conflict—while he finds joy in the physical challenge, he remains haunted by the violence and destruction he has caused in his past. The chapter explores Szeth’s complex character, torn between moments of exhilaration and guilt, illustrating his struggle to reconcile his abilities with his moral and emotional burdens.
As the contest progresses, Szeth faces increasing difficulty as more experienced squires coordinate their attacks, forcing him to rely on strategic Lashing and quick reflexes. His Stormlight reserves dwindle as he attempts to outlast the sunset and the other competitors, emphasizing the physical and mental toll of such combat. Despite his skills, Szeth is reminded of his limitations and the reality that his existence is driven by necessity rather than joy. The chapter concludes with Szeth’s determination to endure, understanding that his survival is a pragmatic goal amid the chaos, and that every action is shaped by his troubled past and uncertain future.
FAQs
1. What is the significance of the poles with colored bags in Szeth’s training exercise, and how do they influence the combat scenario?
Answer:
The poles with colored bags serve as both a physical and strategic element in Szeth’s training exercise. Each pole is topped with a collection of pouches containing powders of different colors, and these are used as projectiles in a simulated combat scenario. The rules specify that fighters must throw these powders at each other without using other weapons, aiming to hit opponents and mark their uniforms. The poles create designated zones for the activity, preventing fighters from leaving the area. This setup tests martial competence, agility, and strategic movement, as competitors aim to hit others with various colors while avoiding getting hit themselves. The exercise emphasizes adaptability and precision, mirroring real combat challenges where fighters must balance offense and defense within constrained environments.2. How does Szeth’s use of Lashings during the exercise reflect his skills and understanding of his powers?
Answer:
Szeth’s use of Lashings during the exercise demonstrates his proficiency and evolving mastery of his Surgebinding abilities. He skillfully manipulates Lashings to achieve complex maneuvers, such as soaring high, hovering, and dodging incoming pouches, showing his control over wind and gravity. His ability to add multiple Lashings in succession—up to three—indicates his increased Stormlight efficiency, likely due to his status as a Radiant compared to Honorblade users. Szeth’s strategic use of Lashings to navigate the aerial space, avoid attacks, and retrieve pouches highlights his tactical awareness and adaptability. This also reflects his growth from a primarily destructive fighter to one who can use his powers in more nuanced, controlled ways, even in playful combat.3. What are Szeth’s internal conflicts during the exercise, and how do they influence his attitude towards the competition?
Answer:
Szeth experiences deep internal conflicts rooted in his past actions and his sense of identity. Despite enjoying the challenge and the opportunity to use his powers without causing destruction or death, he is plagued by feelings of guilt and shame for the violence and terror he has wrought in the past. He recognizes that his joy in the exercise is tainted by his history as a tool of retribution, not redemption. This internal struggle causes him to shift his focus from personal achievement to practicality, emphasizing survival and duty rather than enjoyment. His guilt influences his attitude to be more somber and pragmatic, reminding him that his role is to serve as a weapon rather than find happiness in combat, which adds a layer of complexity to his character and motivations.4. In what ways does the chapter explore the theme of perception versus reality, particularly in the context of Szeth’s actions and internal thoughts?
Answer:
The chapter contrasts external appearances and internal realities through Szeth’s experience. On the surface, Szeth is engaged in a seemingly playful, competitive activity—fighting with powders and maneuvering in the air. However, internally, he grapples with guilt, guilt that colors his perception of his actions during the exercise. While he appears to be enjoying himself and demonstrating skill, he is also aware of the destruction he has caused in the past, which taints his sense of joy. The chapter explores how Szeth’s internal reality—his feelings of guilt and the recognition of his violent history—clashes with the external perception of him as a capable, even playful, combatant. This duality highlights the theme that outward appearances can mask deeper internal truths, emphasizing the complexity of Szeth’s character.5. How might the training exercise described in the chapter serve as a metaphor for Szeth’s broader struggles with control and morality?
Answer:
The exercise functions as a metaphor for Szeth’s ongoing struggle to control his powers and moral compass. The use of Lashings to maneuver skillfully in the air mirrors his attempts to master his abilities, which are inherently dangerous and require discipline. The rules of the game—hitting targets without collateral damage—symbolize his desire to use his strength responsibly and ethically. Szeth’s internal conflict about enjoying the exercise despite his violent past reflects his broader challenge of reconciling his capabilities with his moral conscience. Just as he must carefully navigate the game, Szeth must also navigate his inner turmoil, striving to control his destructive tendencies while maintaining a sense of purpose and morality in a world fraught with chaos.
Quotes
1. “Lore suggested leaving a city if the spren there start acting strangely. Curiously, Sja-anat was often regarded as an individual, when others—like Moelach or Ashertmarn—were seen as forces.”
This quote highlights how certain spren are perceived as distinct entities rather than abstract forces, emphasizing the nuanced nature of spren and their relationship to the world.
2. “This is a test of martial competence,” Master Warren explained. “Fight by throwing those—you cannot use other weapons, and you cannot leave the contest area marked by the poles.”
This passage introduces the unconventional training exercise, illustrating how the characters are honing their skills in creative, controlled environments that reflect larger conflicts.
3. “He soared upward about thirty feet, then used a half Lashing to hover. Yes, the tops of the poles each bore a collection of small pouches tied on by strings. He Lashed himself past one, snatching a pouch, which let out a puff of pink dust as it came off in his hand.”
This detailed description captures Szeth’s mastery of Lashings and Stormlight, showcasing the importance of skillful use of powers in combat and the chapter’s focus on aerial agility.
4. “He had left tears, blood, and terror in his wake like a personal seal. He could not be happy. He was only a tool of retribution. Not redemption, for he dared not believe in such.”
This introspective moment reveals Szeth’s internal conflict and the heavy burden of his actions, framing a core theme of guilt versus purpose.
5. “You think like Vasher, Do you know Vasher? He teaches swords to people now, which is funny because VaraTreledees always says Vasher isn’t any good with the sword.”
This quote provides insight into Szeth’s mental dialogue and references broader connections within the story’s universe, emphasizing themes of skill, reputation, and self-doubt.