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    Oathbringer

    by Sanderson, Brandon
    Oathbringer, the third book in Brandon Sanderson’s Stormlight Archive series, is an epic fantasy novel set on the planet Roshar. It follows Dalinar Kholin as he confronts his past, unravels ancient secrets, and strives to unite warring factions against existential threats. The story explores themes of leadership, memory, and redemption amid catastrophic conflicts and mystical revelations, advancing the series’ intricate world-building and character development.
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    Oathbringer

    117. Champion with Nine Shadows

    by Sanderson, Brandon

    The chap­ter opens with a cau­tion­ary tone, empha­siz­ing the dan­ger posed by the “oth­er­worlders,” trai­tors who appear charm­ing but har­bor blood­lust and destruc­tive intent. These enti­ties, called Void­bringers, are linked to a new god that embod­ies empti­ness and emo­tion­al void, sym­bol­iz­ing a pro­found threat to the world. This omi­nous warn­ing from the Eila Stele sets the tone for a con­flict root­ed in decep­tion and treach­ery, high­light­ing the impor­tance of vig­i­lance against seem­ing­ly benign foes who con­ceal their true nature and threat­en to bring chaos and destruc­tion.

    Dali­nar is depict­ed stand­ing amidst the ruins of a city under siege, with ten­sion pal­pa­ble in the stag­nant air and the hes­i­ta­tion of Amaram’s army out­side the breach. The sol­diers, dri­ven by their blood­lust, dis­play a fierce desire for com­bat, yet their dis­or­ga­nized ranks and dis­re­gard for wealth strewn across the bat­tle­field sug­gest a chaos-dri­ven men­tal­i­ty. Dali­nar per­ceives their lust for bat­tle as a reflec­tion of the destruc­tive storm loom­ing near­by, empha­siz­ing the chaos and vio­lence that define this con­fronta­tion, and his soli­tary stance under­scores his role as a leader fac­ing over­whelm­ing odds.

    The nar­ra­tive shifts to a more per­son­al lev­el as Dali­nar inter­acts with Lift, a young, uncon­ven­tion­al sol­dier who embod­ies humil­i­ty and resource­ful­ness. Lift, untrained and unarmed with a weapon, offers to assist Dali­nar by steal­ing a valu­able ruby from a flee­ing Fused—a for­mi­da­ble ene­my capa­ble of mov­ing with extra­or­di­nary pow­er. Their dia­logue reveals Dalinar’s reliance on uncon­ven­tion­al allies and meth­ods, high­light­ing Lift’s inno­cence and con­fi­dence in her abil­i­ties. This inter­ac­tion under­scores themes of trust, adapt­abil­i­ty, and the impor­tance of uncon­ven­tion­al tac­tics in the face of seem­ing­ly insur­mount­able chal­lenges.

    The chap­ter con­cludes with a tense, action-packed scene involv­ing Dalinar’s con­fronta­tion with Odi­um and his Fused fol­low­ers. Odium’s strate­gic com­mands and the pres­ence of pow­er­ful spren and visions height­en the stakes, reveal­ing a com­plex web of plans to con­trol or destroy crit­i­cal arti­facts like the Oath­gate. Mean­while, Adolin and Shal­lan are engaged in their own per­ilous fight against Fused, blend­ing illu­sions, com­bat, and wit. The nar­ra­tive empha­sizes the chaos of bat­tle, the impor­tance of men­tal acu­ity, and the relent­less strug­gle to safe­guard vital resources against ene­mies who are both cun­ning and dead­ly.

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    FAQs

    • 1. What is the significance of the quote from the Eila Stele at the beginning of the chapter, and how does it relate to the themes presented in the chapter?

      Answer:
      The quote from the Eila Stele warns against trusting “otherworlders,” describing them as traitors with deceptive tongues who bring chaos and destruction, specifically referencing the Voidbringers and their influence. This sets a tone of suspicion and danger surrounding unfamiliar or seemingly trustworthy beings. Within the chapter, this theme is reflected in the presence of the Fused and the shadowy entities working with Odium, who are dangerous and untrustworthy despite their outward appearances. The quote underscores the overarching theme of deception, hidden threats, and the importance of vigilance against those who may appear benign but harbor destructive intentions.

      2. How does Dalinar’s interaction with Lift illustrate the contrast between traditional military leadership and unconventional tactics in this chapter?

      Answer:
      Dalinar’s interaction with Lift highlights a shift from conventional military tactics to more unorthodox, improvisational methods. Dalinar, a seasoned leader, initially questions Lift’s ability to contribute without formal training or weapons, emphasizing the importance of discipline and strategy. However, Lift’s confidence and resourcefulness—using Stormlight to manifest a Shardblade and her willingness to undertake dangerous tasks like stealing a ruby—demonstrate that effective combat can sometimes rely on ingenuity and unconventional approaches. This interaction underscores a theme of adaptability and the value of diverse skills in warfare, challenging traditional notions of leadership and combat.

      3. What role do the Fused and Odium play in the chapter, and what does their presence reveal about the larger conflict?

      Answer:
      The Fused, under Odium’s command, serve as formidable enemies, engaging in strategic actions such as guarding the prison and attempting to secure the Oathgate. Odium’s presence, along with his conversation with Dalinar and the Fused’s actions, signifies that he is orchestrating a coordinated attack or sabotage, emphasizing his role as a powerful antagonist. Their actions reveal a larger conflict centered on the struggle for control over the city and the fate of Roshar. The Fused’s ability to move with power similar to Lift’s and their strategic positioning underscore the threat they pose and highlight the ongoing war between Odium’s forces and the protagonists.

      4. How does Adolin’s combat encounter with the Fused reflect the novel’s themes of adaptability and resourcefulness?

      Answer:
      Adolin’s fight with the Fused showcases his quick thinking and adaptability under pressure. Despite being outmatched physically—being tossed and injured—he relies on his training, remembering lessons about fighting knife to spear, and uses his environment to defend himself. His decision to switch grip on his knife and focus on techniques learned from Zahel reflects his ability to adapt to unexpected threats. This scene emphasizes that success in combat is not solely about strength but also about mental agility, resourcefulness, and applying knowledge in the moment, aligning with the broader themes of resilience and ingenuity.

      5. What does the chapter suggest about the nature of trust and deception in the ongoing conflict, especially in relation to the beings working with Odium?

      Answer:
      The chapter underscores that appearances can be deceptive, especially regarding the beings allied with Odium. The Fused and shadowy entities appear confident and in control, yet their actions and conversations suggest they are operating within a web of strategic deception. The quote from the Eila Stele warns against trusting those with sweet words but bloodthirsty minds, which mirrors the Fused’s behavior—appearing as formidable yet potentially treacherous enemies. This highlights a recurring theme that trust must be earned and that enemies often disguise their true intentions, making vigilance crucial in this ongoing war.

    Quotes

    • 1. “Beware the otherworlders. The traitors. Those with tongues of sweetness, but with minds that lust for blood. Do not take them in. Do not give them succor. Well were they named Voidbringers, for they brought the void. The empty pit that sucks in emotion. A new god. Their god.”

      This quote from the Eila Stele encapsulates the chapter’s theme of deception and danger posed by seemingly benign enemies who harbor destructive intent. It highlights the threat of manipulative forces that appear harmless but are driven by a destructive hunger, setting a tone of caution and vigilance.

      2. “Dalinar faced it alone. One man. All that remained of a broken dream.”

      This line underscores Dalinar’s sense of isolation and the heavy burden of leadership amid chaos. It reflects the chapter’s focus on personal sacrifice and the loneliness of standing against overwhelming adversity.

      3. “Wyndle doesn’t like hurting people.”

      This remark, made by Lift, offers a poignant insight into the moral complexity of the world—where even weapons like swords are depicted with a semblance of sentience and morality. It challenges traditional notions of violence and highlights the unique nature of the magic system and creatures in this universe.

      4. “It’s not the army that worries me, but the figure that materialized, wearing gold, holding a scepter like a cane.”

      This statement reveals the underlying threat and the presence of powerful, possibly supernatural, figures who influence the battlefield. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the true sources of power beyond just soldiers and weapons.

      5. “The chapter’s climax suggests that the real conflict is not merely physical but also spiritual and strategic—where deception, moral dilemmas, and unseen forces play as much a role as brute strength.”

      This overarching insight ties together the chapter’s themes of deception, personal sacrifice, and the unseen battles shaping the narrative’s outcome.

    Quotes

    1. “Beware the otherworlders. The traitors. Those with tongues of sweetness, but with minds that lust for blood. Do not take them in. Do not give them succor. Well were they named Voidbringers, for they brought the void. The empty pit that sucks in emotion. A new god. Their god.”

    This quote from the Eila Stele encapsulates the chapter’s theme of deception and danger posed by seemingly benign enemies who harbor destructive intent. It highlights the threat of manipulative forces that appear harmless but are driven by a destructive hunger, setting a tone of caution and vigilance.

    2. “Dalinar faced it alone. One man. All that remained of a broken dream.”

    This line underscores Dalinar’s sense of isolation and the heavy burden of leadership amid chaos. It reflects the chapter’s focus on personal sacrifice and the loneliness of standing against overwhelming adversity.

    3. “Wyndle doesn’t like hurting people.”

    This remark, made by Lift, offers a poignant insight into the moral complexity of the world—where even weapons like swords are depicted with a semblance of sentience and morality. It challenges traditional notions of violence and highlights the unique nature of the magic system and creatures in this universe.

    4. “It’s not the army that worries me, but the figure that materialized, wearing gold, holding a scepter like a cane.”

    This statement reveals the underlying threat and the presence of powerful, possibly supernatural, figures who influence the battlefield. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the true sources of power beyond just soldiers and weapons.

    5. “The chapter’s climax suggests that the real conflict is not merely physical but also spiritual and strategic—where deception, moral dilemmas, and unseen forces play as much a role as brute strength.”

    This overarching insight ties together the chapter’s themes of deception, personal sacrifice, and the unseen battles shaping the narrative’s outcome.

    FAQs

    1. What is the significance of the quote from the Eila Stele at the beginning of the chapter, and how does it relate to the themes presented in the chapter?

    Answer:
    The quote from the Eila Stele warns against trusting “otherworlders,” describing them as traitors with deceptive tongues who bring chaos and destruction, specifically referencing the Voidbringers and their influence. This sets a tone of suspicion and danger surrounding unfamiliar or seemingly trustworthy beings. Within the chapter, this theme is reflected in the presence of the Fused and the shadowy entities working with Odium, who are dangerous and untrustworthy despite their outward appearances. The quote underscores the overarching theme of deception, hidden threats, and the importance of vigilance against those who may appear benign but harbor destructive intentions.

    2. How does Dalinar’s interaction with Lift illustrate the contrast between traditional military leadership and unconventional tactics in this chapter?

    Answer:
    Dalinar’s interaction with Lift highlights a shift from conventional military tactics to more unorthodox, improvisational methods. Dalinar, a seasoned leader, initially questions Lift’s ability to contribute without formal training or weapons, emphasizing the importance of discipline and strategy. However, Lift’s confidence and resourcefulness—using Stormlight to manifest a Shardblade and her willingness to undertake dangerous tasks like stealing a ruby—demonstrate that effective combat can sometimes rely on ingenuity and unconventional approaches. This interaction underscores a theme of adaptability and the value of diverse skills in warfare, challenging traditional notions of leadership and combat.

    3. What role do the Fused and Odium play in the chapter, and what does their presence reveal about the larger conflict?

    Answer:
    The Fused, under Odium’s command, serve as formidable enemies, engaging in strategic actions such as guarding the prison and attempting to secure the Oathgate. Odium’s presence, along with his conversation with Dalinar and the Fused’s actions, signifies that he is orchestrating a coordinated attack or sabotage, emphasizing his role as a powerful antagonist. Their actions reveal a larger conflict centered on the struggle for control over the city and the fate of Roshar. The Fused’s ability to move with power similar to Lift’s and their strategic positioning underscore the threat they pose and highlight the ongoing war between Odium’s forces and the protagonists.

    4. How does Adolin’s combat encounter with the Fused reflect the novel’s themes of adaptability and resourcefulness?

    Answer:
    Adolin’s fight with the Fused showcases his quick thinking and adaptability under pressure. Despite being outmatched physically—being tossed and injured—he relies on his training, remembering lessons about fighting knife to spear, and uses his environment to defend himself. His decision to switch grip on his knife and focus on techniques learned from Zahel reflects his ability to adapt to unexpected threats. This scene emphasizes that success in combat is not solely about strength but also about mental agility, resourcefulness, and applying knowledge in the moment, aligning with the broader themes of resilience and ingenuity.

    5. What does the chapter suggest about the nature of trust and deception in the ongoing conflict, especially in relation to the beings working with Odium?

    Answer:
    The chapter underscores that appearances can be deceptive, especially regarding the beings allied with Odium. The Fused and shadowy entities appear confident and in control, yet their actions and conversations suggest they are operating within a web of strategic deception. The quote from the Eila Stele warns against trusting those with sweet words but bloodthirsty minds, which mirrors the Fused’s behavior—appearing as formidable yet potentially treacherous enemies. This highlights a recurring theme that trust must be earned and that enemies often disguise their true intentions, making vigilance crucial in this ongoing war.

    Note