Oathbringer
106. Law Is Light
by Sanderson, BrandonThe chapter begins with a reflection on Ba-Ado-Mishram, highlighting her as a notable figure among the Unmade, described as a high-princess and a commanding presence during the Desolations. The narrative hints at her intelligence and significance within the enemy forces, drawing a mysterious connection to the ancient god Odium. This sets a tone of deep history and mythic resonance, emphasizing the importance of understanding these ancient entities and their roles in the ongoing conflicts on Roshar. The mention of her as “most interesting” underscores her pivotal role in the lore and the complex web of divine and demonic influences shaping the world.
Szeth of Shinovar embarks on a journey with the Skybreakers, traveling southward over several days and stopping amidst storms, which reveal the ancient nature of the creatures and the land itself. As they reach Marat, Szeth reflects on its unique political structure—loosely connected cities led by a highprince, functioning as a cultural hub rather than a true nation. The stop at Marat underscores the interconnectedness of the world’s geography and politics, serving as a strategic waypoint between major kingdoms. Szeth’s observations reveal a landscape rich in culture but seemingly insignificant on the broader political stage, emphasizing the layered complexity of Roshar’s societal fabric.
The narrative shifts to a scene of destruction in a coastal town, where Szeth and Nin investigate the aftermath of violence. They find a ruined courthouse, bloodstains, and remnants of civilian life, illustrating the chaos wrought by invading forces. Nin’s discussion about justice raises questions about morality and the justification of violence, especially when ordinary people are caught in the crossfire. Nin’s perspective suggests that justice can sometimes be a matter of perspective—what appears unjust to one may be deemed necessary or justified by others—highlighting the moral ambiguities faced by those enforcing or interpreting justice in wartime.
Finally, Nin confesses to a failure in his long-standing mission to prevent another Desolation, revealing the death of Honor and the destabilization of previous divine safeguards. Szeth witnesses Nin’s regret and the emergence of a missing Honorblade, symbolizing the fractured state of divine power. The chapter concludes with a somber reflection on the difficult path ahead, as Nin prepares to pursue justice in a world where traditional notions of righteousness are challenged. The chapter emphasizes themes of moral complexity, the weight of divine authority, and the ongoing struggle to restore order amid chaos and loss.
FAQs
1. Question 1
What is the significance of Szeth’s visit to the ruined courthouse in the context of the chapter, and what does it reveal about the current state of the world?
Answer:
Szeth’s visit to the ruined courthouse serves as a stark visual representation of recent violence and upheaval in the world. The blood on the floor, discarded weapons, and the destruction of a place of justice highlight the chaos and lawlessness resulting from recent conflicts. It reveals that the world is experiencing widespread disorder, with communities suffering from invasions and battles, and traditional institutions like justice being compromised. The scene underscores the theme of justice and the moral dilemmas faced by characters like Szeth, especially as they confront the consequences of war and invasion. It also foreshadows the larger conflict and the need for true justice in a fractured world.2. Question 2
How does Nin’s perspective on justice and the events in the town challenge traditional notions of morality and justice?
Answer:
Nin’s perspective suggests that justice is complex and context-dependent, challenging the straightforward notion that justice always equates to moral good. He argues that sometimes, maintaining order—such as a prince enforcing taxes or defending a city—may involve actions that seem unjust, like killing innocent civilians. His statement that “sometimes, it is just to kill ordinary people” reflects a pragmatic, if morally ambiguous, view of justice, especially in times of war. Nin’s interpretation emphasizes that justice can be a matter of perspective, often intertwined with survival, authority, and the larger goals of societal stability. This perspective forces readers to consider the moral gray areas faced by leaders and warriors in wartime.3. Question 3
Discuss the significance of the missing Honorblade in the chapter. What does its presence and absence symbolize within the context of the story?
Answer:
The missing Honorblade symbolizes the loss of divine authority and the weakening of the ancient order that once maintained balance and justice. Szeth notices that one of the Honorblades, a powerful and sacred weapon, has vanished, leaving only eight instead of the original nine. This loss signifies a shift in power and possibly the decline of the ancient ideals associated with the Heralds and their blades. The Honorblades are symbols of divine authority, and their absence reflects the current chaos and the fading influence of the old order. Within the story, this also hints at the larger theme of lost stability and the need to confront a world that has been fundamentally altered.4. Question 4
In what ways does Szeth’s interaction with Nin and his reflections on justice reveal his character and moral outlook?
Answer:
Szeth’s interactions with Nin and his reactions to the destruction and questions about justice reveal him as a character struggling with moral ambiguity and the weight of his duties. Despite his training as a Skybreaker, Szeth is disturbed by the brutality he witnesses, especially the slaughter of innocent civilians. His instinct to seek safety and his horror at the town’s destruction show his internal conflict—he is bound by his oaths but also deeply empathetic. His question about whether the invasion was justice indicates his desire for moral clarity, yet Nin’s nuanced explanation challenges him to think beyond black-and-white morality. Szeth’s character is thus portrayed as morally conscientious, torn between duty and compassion.5. Question 5
How might the themes of justice, order, and chaos explored in this chapter be applied to broader real-world contexts?
Answer:
The themes of justice, order, and chaos in this chapter mirror real-world dilemmas faced during conflicts, wars, and political upheavals. The idea that justice can be subjective, and that maintaining order might require morally questionable actions, reflects the complexities leaders face when balancing security and morality. The chapter encourages reflection on how power structures justify violence and the importance of moral responsibility in times of chaos. It also highlights that true justice often involves difficult choices and that chaos can threaten the stability of societies. These themes remind us of the importance of ethical leadership and the ongoing struggle to define justice amid conflicting interests and moral gray areas.
Quotes
1. “I find Ba-Ado-Mishram to be the most interesting of the Unmade. She is said to have been keen of mind, a highprincess among the enemy forces, their commander during some of the Desolations. I do not know how this relates to the ancient god of the enemy, named Odium.”
This quote highlights the mysterious and complex nature of the Unmade, emphasizing their significance in the broader mythic and divine context of the story.
2. “Everything but men, who refused their place. Who destroyed instead of added.”
This statement underscores the chapter’s exploration of the destructive tendencies of humanity in contrast to the natural order, framing a central moral and philosophical tension.
3. “Sometimes, it is just to kill ordinary people.”
This provocative assertion challenges the reader to consider the moral ambiguity of justice and war, especially in the context of invasion and conflict.
4. “You are in a unique position, Szeth-son-Neturo. You will be the first to swear the oaths of a Skybreaker in a new world, a world where I have failed.”
This quote signifies a pivotal moment of responsibility for Szeth, symbolizing both his personal journey and the chapter’s theme of justice and failure.
5. “Now that Honor is dead, other Radiants might upset the balance of the Oathpact. Might undermine certain… measures we took, and give an opening to the enemy.”
This reflects the chapter’s core concern about the fragile balance of divine forces and the consequences of losing the principles that maintain cosmic order.