Oathbringer
70. Highmarshal Azure
by Sanderson, BrandonThe chapter opens with a reflection on the internal struggles within the Knights Radiant, emphasizing that divisions are not solely due to perceived worthiness but are rooted in deeper issues. A fragment from a secretive drawer hints at the ongoing tensions and hidden truths among the Knights, setting a tone of underlying conflict. This theme of internal discord contrasts with the external chaos in Kholinar, where the city faces siege and upheaval. The narrative then shifts to Kaladin’s arrival at the Wall Guard’s barracks, which feels like a homecoming. The familiar sights, smells, and sounds evoke a sense of stability and order amid the chaos, highlighting the importance of military discipline and camaraderie.
Kaladin’s observations of the barracks reveal a well-maintained and organized military environment. The presence of soldiers, armorers, and the communal atmosphere suggest a unit that is cohesive and resilient despite recent hardships. Kaladin admires Highmarshal Azure’s leadership, recognizing his critical role in securing the city and managing the chaos caused by riots. The interactions with the soldiers, including Syl’s playful movements and the casual conversations, humanize the soldiers and reinforce the idea that effective leadership has fostered a sense of normalcy and trust within the ranks. Kaladin’s appreciation for the structure and discipline of the military underscores his longing for purpose and belonging.
As the soldiers share stories, Kaladin learns about their backgrounds and current circumstances. The mention of the Shash brand and the story of Sadeas’s mark introduces a layer of political and social tension, hinting at the complex hierarchy and loyalties within the army. The soldiers’ casual demeanor masks underlying wounds, as evidenced by their chipped weapons and empty seats—signs of recent losses and ongoing tension. Kaladin’s questions reveal his curiosity and skepticism about the political dynamics, particularly regarding the treatment of lighteyes and the rules surrounding slavery and branding, illustrating the layered conflicts shaping their society.
In the final part, the narrative emphasizes Azure’s heroic reputation, especially his leadership during the riots. The soldiers’ admiration for Azure’s bravery and strategic acumen contrasts with Kaladin’s initial outsider perspective. The chapter concludes with a sense of hope and respect for Azure’s command, underscoring his ability to inspire and rally his troops even in the face of chaos. Kaladin’s desire to learn more about the highmarshal and his contemplation of rejoining the military reflect his ongoing search for purpose and his recognition of the importance of strong leadership in turbulent times. The chapter ends on a note of cautious optimism, hinting at Kaladin’s potential future role in this fractured but resilient military environment.
FAQs
1. Question 1
What does Kaladin’s initial impression of Highmarshal Azure suggest about his leadership qualities and the state of the military in Kholinar?
Answer:
Kaladin’s impression of Highmarshal Azure is highly positive; he perceives Azure as an effective and capable leader who has managed to secure the wall, evacuate parshmen, and defend Kholinar during chaos. The soldiers’ well-maintained appearance, camaraderie, and the warmth of the barracks reflect a disciplined and well-led military unit. Kaladin’s admiration indicates that Azure’s leadership is both strategic and inspiring, qualities that have fostered a sense of stability and confidence among the troops. This also suggests that, despite the turmoil, Azure’s leadership has maintained order and morale, which are crucial for a military’s effectiveness in wartime.2. Question 2
How does the chapter reveal the social and racial dynamics among the soldiers, particularly through Kaladin’s realization about their eyes?
Answer:
The chapter subtly exposes the racial divide and societal hierarchy through Kaladin’s realization that most of the soldiers, despite appearing equal in camaraderie and daily routines, are actually lighteyes, not darkeyes like him. Initially, he perceives the barracks as a comfortable, egalitarian space, but the moment he notices their eyes, he recognizes the ingrained societal distinctions. This highlights the pervasive influence of the class and racial hierarchy in their society, where lighteyes hold privilege and authority, even within the military. Kaladin’s realization is a moment of deeper understanding of the systemic inequalities that persist beneath the surface of everyday interactions.3. Question 3
In what ways do the soldiers’ stories and interactions with Kaladin serve to build a sense of community, and how might this impact his view of military life?
Answer:
The soldiers’ stories, camaraderie, and welcoming behavior create a warm, almost familial atmosphere within the barracks. Their shared experiences of suffering, humor, and mutual support foster a sense of belonging and trust. For Kaladin, this environment contrasts sharply with his previous perceptions of military life, which he might have associated with strict hierarchy and danger. Their openness and the way they treat him as one of their own suggest that, despite societal divisions, camaraderie can forge genuine bonds. This may influence Kaladin’s view of military life as not just a brutal necessity but also a community where individuals find purpose and connection, potentially motivating him to consider re-enlisting.4. Question 4
Evaluate the significance of Azure’s heroism during the chaos of the riots as described in the chapter. What does this imply about his leadership and reputation?
Answer:
Azure’s heroism, fighting like a Voidbringer and rallying the troops with his gleaming Shardblade, underscores his exceptional bravery and strategic prowess in a crisis. His actions—holding the wall, inspiring wounded soldiers, and nearly overwhelming the Cult of Moments—paint him as a leader of extraordinary courage and charisma. This reputation implies that Azure is not merely a competent officer but a figure capable of inspiring awe and confidence among his troops. It suggests that his leadership is rooted in personal valor and resilience, qualities that elevate his standing among soldiers and likely influence their morale. His heroic image also hints at the possibility that he may possess qualities or abilities that set him apart, further solidifying his reputation as a formidable leader.5. Question 5
How might Kaladin’s observations and interactions in this chapter influence his future decisions regarding his role in the military or his personal path?
Answer:
Kaladin’s experiences in the barracks—seeing soldiers who are both hardened by suffering and united by camaraderie—could influence him to reconsider his own place within the military structure. The warmth and respect he observes might inspire him to find a sense of belonging or purpose, perhaps even rekindling his desire to serve or protect others. Conversely, his awareness of societal divisions and the potential for violence might make him cautious about fully trusting the system. His interactions with the soldiers and their stories could motivate him to either re-enlist, seeking a form of redemption and purpose, or to forge his own path rooted in the values of leadership and sacrifice he witnesses among them. Ultimately, these observations deepen his understanding of leadership, community, and his own personal journey.
Quotes
1. “Something is happening to the Sibling. I agree this is true, but the division among the Knights Radiant is not to blame. Our perceived worthiness is a separate issue.”
This quote highlights a key insight into the broader spiritual and political conflicts within the story, emphasizing that internal strife among the Knights Radiant is not the root of the chaos, but rather a symptom of deeper issues.
2. “Storms. They’re all lighteyes, aren’t they?”
This moment reveals Kaladin’s realization about the pervasive social divide; it underscores the chapter’s exploration of class and racial distinctions, challenging assumptions about equality within the military environment.
3. “He fought like a Voidbringer,” another squad member said. “I was there. We were almost overwhelmed, then Azure joined us, holding aloft a gleaming Shardblade. He rallied our numbers, inspired even the wounded to keep fighting. Storms. Felt like we had spren at our backs, holding us up.”
This quote serves as a powerful testament to Highmarshal Azure’s heroism and leadership in the chaos of battle, illustrating the chapter’s portrayal of his exceptional qualities and inspiring presence.
4. “The wall guard’s barracks smelled like home to Kaladin. Not his father’s house—which smelled of antiseptic and the flowers his mother crushed to season the air. His true home. Leather. Boiling stew. Crowded men. Weapon oil.”
This passage establishes the setting and Kaladin’s emotional connection to the military life, emphasizing themes of belonging and the contrast between personal history and current circumstances.
5. “In a group like this, everyone had a secondary duty, like armoring or field surgery. Kaladin hadn’t noticed their eyes. The place had felt so natural, so comfortable, that he’d assumed they were all darkeyed like him.”
This insight underscores the chapter’s exploration of social perception and the hidden divisions among soldiers, revealing how Kaladin’s assumptions are challenged by the reality of the room’s social makeup.