Oathbringer
109. Neshua Kadal
by Sanderson, BrandonThe chapter begins with a reflection on the mythic figure Re-Shephir, the Midnight Mother, who is believed to have been destroyed at Aharietiam, highlighting the ongoing theme of loss and the remnants of ancient power. Dalinar and Navani explore the mysterious structure of Urithiru, focusing on a vein of red crystal embedded within the walls that suggests the tower might be alive or at least connected to some form of ancient, possibly sentient, power. Their investigation into the tower’s strange features hints at deeper, unresolved mysteries about its origins and purpose, emphasizing the importance of understanding the tower’s true nature to harness its potential or awaken it.
The narrative then shifts to Dalinar’s scientific and theological inquiries, where he and Navani discuss the significance of various gemstones used in Soulcasting and other magical processes. Navani explains that garnets, which are associated with blood and the liquefaction of water-soluble substances, are not currently used in Soulcasters. Their conversation reveals a broader quest for knowledge about the ancient technologies and the underlying principles of the magic systems, suggesting that unlocking these secrets could be pivotal in their ongoing conflict and in understanding the tower’s full capabilities. This scientific curiosity underscores the chapter’s theme of discovery amid uncertainty.
As the story progresses, Dalinar prepares for an imminent storm and war, receiving urgent messages about enemy movements and potential invasions. The strategic importance of the upcoming stormwall and the impending naval buildup by the enemy underscore the urgency of their military preparations. Dalinar’s internal conflict about whether to proceed with a dangerous plan reflects his awareness of the stakes involved. His reliance on both ancient wisdom and modern technology, such as his arm device, illustrates his multifaceted approach to leadership in the face of chaos, emphasizing the delicate balance between knowledge, intuition, and action in wartime.
The chapter concludes with Dalinar’s visions and his confrontation with the enemy’s greater power. He witnesses a scene with Nohadon, which symbolizes wisdom and leadership, but also faces the overwhelming force of Odium, the malevolent god. The Stormfather’s inability to fully assist Dalinar signifies the limits of divine aid and the enormity of the threat. Dalinar’s decision to confront this danger head-on, despite uncertainty and danger, highlights the central theme of courage and the relentless pursuit of understanding and defeating the enemy. The scene underscores the gravity of the war and the importance of strategic foresight, even when clarity is elusive.
FAQs
1. Question 1
What is the significance of the red crystal embedded in the stone wall near Dalinar, and what does its pattern suggest about the nature of the tower?
Answer:
The red crystal embedded in the wall signifies a mysterious and potentially vital aspect of the tower’s structure. Dalinar notices it runs from the ceiling to the floor, with veins that ripple outward, suggesting it may be part of the tower’s “living” essence. Navani interprets the pattern as indicative of the tower being a living entity with a heart of emerald and ruby, and veins of garnet. The pattern implies that the tower might be a complex, possibly organic or mystical construct, whose health and function could be linked to these crystalline veins. The discovery raises questions about the tower’s true nature—whether it is alive, dormant, or something else entirely—and hints at deeper magical or technological systems at work.2. Question 2
How does Navani describe the function of garnets in Soulcasters, and what scientific explanation does she provide for their use?
Answer:
Navani explains that garnets in Soulcasters are associated with making blood or liquids soluble in water. She states that scientifically, garnets were believed to enable Soulcasters to produce any liquid that was water-soluble, as opposed to oil-based substances. This suggests that garnets play a role in manipulating liquids, particularly blood, which could be significant for various magical or practical applications. She also notes that there are no Soulcasters using garnets currently, implying that their full potential or purpose remains a mystery. This explanation links the magical function of the gemstones to a scientific-like understanding of their properties, blending magic and science within the world’s lore.3. Question 3
What does Dalinar’s reflection on the tower being “alive” or “sleeping” reveal about his understanding of the structure, and what efforts have been made to awaken it?
Answer:
Dalinar’s contemplation that the tower might be “alive” or “sleeping” demonstrates his view of the structure as a potentially sentient or living entity, emphasizing its mysterious, possibly organic nature. His statement that it is “dead” suggests he perceives the tower as having once been alive but now inert. Efforts to awaken it include infusing the heart of the tower like a fabrial and attempting to push Stormlight into it, including Renarin’s efforts. Despite these attempts, nothing has worked, highlighting the tower’s enigmatic resistance and the limits of current understanding. This reveals Dalinar’s desire to uncover and possibly harness the tower’s power, while also acknowledging the profound mystery surrounding its true nature.4. Question 4
Analyze Dalinar’s reference to the “first rule of war” in the context of his decision to approach the storm and the visions. What does this reveal about his leadership and strategic mindset?
Answer:
Dalinar’s reference to the “first rule of war”—“Know your enemy”—reflects his strategic focus on understanding his opponent before engaging in battle. Approaching the storm and entering the visions signifies a willingness to confront the unknown and gather critical intelligence, even at personal risk. It shows his leadership style as cautious yet courageous, valuing knowledge as a weapon. Dalinar recognizes that without understanding the enemy’s motives and plans, victory is uncertain. His willingness to face the storm and the visions demonstrates his commitment to strategic awareness and preparation, essential qualities for effective leadership in a complex, unpredictable war.5. Question 5
What does the scene with Nohadon and the Parshendi woman reveal about the historical or cultural context of the world, and how does it connect to Dalinar’s current situation?
Answer:
The scene with Nohadon and the Parshendi woman, set in an ancient palace, provides insight into the deep history and complex relationships between different races and leaders in the world. The Parshendi woman’s marbled skin and her role as an advisor suggest a culture with rich symbolism and possibly different perceptions of power and communication. Nohadon’s concern indicates ongoing struggles and diplomatic complexities. This historical scene connects to Dalinar’s current situation by emphasizing themes of leadership, understanding, and the importance of wisdom in navigating conflicts. It also hints at the cyclical nature of history and the enduring relevance of past lessons for present challenges.
Quotes
1. “Re-Shephir, the Midnight Mother, is another Unmade who appears to have been destroyed at Aharietiam.”
This opening quote highlights the chapter’s connection to mythic and cosmic entities, setting a tone of mystery and the layered history of the Unmade, which are central to the chapter’s exploration of divine and unmade forces.
2. “If this tower was alive, then it’s dead now.”
Dalinar’s reflection encapsulates the chapter’s theme of ancient, possibly living structures and the idea that the tower might have once been a living entity, emphasizing the mystery and the potential consciousness of old-world constructs.
3. “The first rule of war. Know your enemy.”
A succinct and powerful statement that underscores the chapter’s focus on strategy, perception, and the importance of understanding one’s adversaries—an essential insight in Dalinar’s ongoing military and spiritual struggles.
4. “Odium sees that a vision has begun. The enemy is focusing on us. He comes.”
This quote conveys the imminent threat posed by Odium, illustrating the chapter’s tension between divine visions and the looming presence of a formidable enemy, emphasizing the stakes of Dalinar’s spiritual and physical battles.
5. “Good enough. Unfortunately, it meant that Dalinar didn’t have time to let this Parshendi woman experience the vision in full.”
This line reflects the urgency and the sacrifices made in moments of crisis, highlighting the tension between divine intervention and human action, and the unpredictable nature of divine communication in the chapter’s narrative.
Quotes
1. “Re-Shephir, the Midnight Mother, is another Unmade who appears to have been destroyed at Aharietiam.”
This opening quote highlights the chapter’s connection to mythic and cosmic entities, setting a tone of mystery and the layered history of the Unmade, which are central to the chapter’s exploration of divine and unmade forces.
2. “If this tower was alive, then it’s dead now.”
Dalinar’s reflection encapsulates the chapter’s theme of ancient, possibly living structures and the idea that the tower might have once been a living entity, emphasizing the mystery and the potential consciousness of old-world constructs.
3. “The first rule of war. Know your enemy.”
A succinct and powerful statement that underscores the chapter’s focus on strategy, perception, and the importance of understanding one’s adversaries
— an essential insight in Dalinar’s ongoing military and spiritual struggles.4. “Odium sees that a vision has begun. The enemy is focusing on us. He comes.”
This quote conveys the imminent threat posed by Odium, illustrating the chapter’s tension between divine visions and the looming presence of a formidable enemy, emphasizing the stakes of Dalinar’s spiritual and physical battles.
5. “Good enough. Unfortunately, it meant that Dalinar didn’t have time to let this Parshendi woman experience the vision in full.”
This line reflects the urgency and the sacrifices made in moments of crisis, highlighting the tension between divine intervention and human action, and the unpredictable nature of divine communication in the chapter’s narrative.
FAQs
1. Question 1
What is the significance of the red crystal embedded in the stone wall near Dalinar, and what does its pattern suggest about the nature of the tower?
Answer:
The red crystal embedded in the wall signifies a mysterious and potentially vital aspect of the tower’s structure. Dalinar notices it runs from the ceiling to the floor, with veins that ripple outward, suggesting it may be part of the tower’s “living” essence. Navani interprets the pattern as indicative of the tower being a living entity with a heart of emerald and ruby, and veins of garnet. The pattern implies that the tower might be a complex, possibly organic or mystical construct, whose health and function could be linked to these crystalline veins. The discovery raises questions about the tower’s true nature—whether it is alive, dormant, or something else entirely—and hints at deeper magical or technological systems at work.
2. Question 2
How does Navani describe the function of garnets in Soulcasters, and what scientific explanation does she provide for their use?
Answer:
Navani explains that garnets in Soulcasters are associated with making blood or liquids soluble in water. She states that scientifically, garnets were believed to enable Soulcasters to produce any liquid that was water-soluble, as opposed to oil-based substances. This suggests that garnets play a role in manipulating liquids, particularly blood, which could be significant for various magical or practical applications. She also notes that there are no Soulcasters using garnets currently, implying that their full potential or purpose remains a mystery. This explanation links the magical function of the gemstones to a scientific-like understanding of their properties, blending magic and science within the world’s lore.
3. Question 3
What does Dalinar’s reflection on the tower being “alive” or “sleeping” reveal about his understanding of the structure, and what efforts have been made to awaken it?
Answer:
Dalinar’s contemplation that the tower might be “alive” or “sleeping” demonstrates his view of the structure as a potentially sentient or living entity, emphasizing its mysterious, possibly organic nature. His statement that it is “dead” suggests he perceives the tower as having once been alive but now inert. Efforts to awaken it include infusing the heart of the tower like a fabrial and attempting to push Stormlight into it, including Renarin’s efforts. Despite these attempts, nothing has worked, highlighting the tower’s enigmatic resistance and the limits of current understanding. This reveals Dalinar’s desire to uncover and possibly harness the tower’s power, while also acknowledging the profound mystery surrounding its true nature.
4. Question 4
Analyze Dalinar’s reference to the “first rule of war” in the context of his decision to approach the storm and the visions. What does this reveal about his leadership and strategic mindset?
Answer:
Dalinar’s reference to the “first rule of war”—“Know your enemy”—reflects his strategic focus on understanding his opponent before engaging in battle. Approaching the storm and entering the visions signifies a willingness to confront the unknown and gather critical intelligence, even at personal risk. It shows his leadership style as cautious yet courageous, valuing knowledge as a weapon. Dalinar recognizes that without understanding the enemy’s motives and plans, victory is uncertain. His willingness to face the storm and the visions demonstrates his commitment to strategic awareness and preparation, essential qualities for effective leadership in a complex, unpredictable war.
5. Question 5
What does the scene with Nohadon and the Parshendi woman reveal about the historical or cultural context of the world, and how does it connect to Dalinar’s current situation?
Answer:
The scene with Nohadon and the Parshendi woman, set in an ancient palace, provides insight into the deep history and complex relationships between different races and leaders in the world. The Parshendi woman’s marbled skin and her role as an advisor suggest a culture with rich symbolism and possibly different perceptions of power and communication. Nohadon’s concern indicates ongoing struggles and diplomatic complexities. This historical scene connects to Dalinar’s current situation by emphasizing themes of leadership, understanding, and the importance of wisdom in navigating conflicts. It also hints at the cyclical nature of history and the enduring relevance of past lessons for present challenges.
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