Rhythm of War (9781429952040)
“Rhythm of War” is the fourth installment in Brandon Sanderson’s epic fantasy series, The Stormlight Archive. Set on the planet Roshar, the novel continues the conflict between Dalinar Kholin’s coalition of Knights Radiant and the forces of Odium, a malevolent god seeking dominion. The story delves deeper into the psychological and emotional struggles of key characters, including Kaladin, Shallan, and Navani, as they grapple with war, trauma, and the mysteries of ancient magics. Themes of resilience, identity, and the cost of power are explored amidst intricate world-building and high-stakes battles. The book expands the Cosmere universe, revealing new layers of lore and setting the stage for future confrontations.
77. The Proper Legality
bySanderson, Brandon
The chapter opens with Venli, a listener, sneaking through the human palace of Kholinar while avoiding guards. She is there to sign a treaty but has ventured into forbidden areas under the guidance of Ulim, a spren who promises her people will one again build grand structures. Venli struggles with fear and doubt, questioning the risks she’s taking. Ulim’s absence from her gemheart leaves her feeling dull and disconnected from the new rhythms she craves, which once made the world feel more coherent.
Venli’s internal conflict deepens as she reflects on Ulim’s plans, which involve gathering gemstones for her scholars. She initially sought to expose human dangers but now feels trapped in a scheme she no longer fully understands. Ulim’s urgency and dismissive attitude unsettle her, especially when he reveals that his agent, Axindweth, has gone silent. Despite her misgivings, Venli continues, fearing the consequences of abandoning the plan now that it’s in motion.
The tension escalates as Ulim leads Venli to a foul-smelling privy room, where they expect to find the gemstones. Instead, they discover a ciphered note from Axindweth, revealing she’s been discovered and has fled the palace. Ulim’s frustration and Venli’s anger clash as she realizes the precariousness of their mission. The note hints at a rival agent in the palace, complicating their already dangerous situation.
The chapter concludes with Venli’s growing distrust of Ulim and her frustration at being kept in the dark. She resents his human-like form and his condescending tone, yet feels powerless to deviate from the path they’ve set. The discovery of Axindweth’s departure leaves Venli questioning the entire plan, but with no clear alternative, she remains entangled in Ulim’s schemes, her fate uncertain.
FAQs
1. What internal conflict does Venli experience regarding her mission with Ulim, and how does this reflect her character development?
Answer:
Venli experiences significant internal conflict between her loyalty to Ulim’s plans and her growing doubts about their morality. Initially, she was enthusiastic about revealing warform and gaining fame, but now—without Ulim in her gemheart—she questions whether manipulating her people into forms of power is truly justified (pg. 880). She feels trapped, recognizing that stopping the plan would be dangerous but also resenting Ulim’s dismissive attitude and secrecy (pg. 881). This conflict highlights her evolving self-awareness and moral unease, contrasting with her earlier ambition. Her reliance on rhythms like Peace and Betrayal underscores her emotional turmoil and dependence on external validation.2. Analyze the significance of Ulim’s behavior and communication style in this chapter. How does it influence Venli’s actions and the tension in the narrative?
Answer:
Ulim’s behavior is manipulative and erratic, heightening both Venli’s distrust and the narrative tension. He dismisses her concerns (“Do what I say,” pg. 880), withholds critical information (Axindweth’s disappearance, pg. 881), and alternates between reassurance and threats (implying he could replace her, pg. 880). His human-like form (pg. 881) and cryptic communication (e.g., the ciphered note) reinforce Venli’s isolation. These tactics pressure her into compliance while seeding doubt, driving the plot forward as Venli risks discovery in the palace. Ulim’s unreliability mirrors the broader instability of their mission, making Venli’s choices feel increasingly precarious.3. How does the setting of the human palace contribute to the chapter’s themes of power and vulnerability?
Answer:
The palace symbolizes both human dominance and Venli’s precarious position. Its “majesty” intimidates her, yet Ulim dismisses it as inferior to her people’s lost glory (pg. 879), reinforcing themes of cultural hierarchy. Venli’s literal hiding in doorways (pg. 879) and the foul privy setting (pg. 881) underscore her vulnerability as an outsider. Meanwhile, the palace’s forbidden areas represent the risks of challenging power structures. The contrast between the celebratory treaty feast and Venli’s covert mission highlights the tension between diplomacy and subterfuge, mirroring her internal struggle between obedience and rebellion.4. Evaluate the role of the rhythms (e.g., Peace, Betrayal) in Venli’s decision-making. What do they reveal about her psychological state?
Answer:
The rhythms serve as emotional anchors for Venli, exposing her instability. She uses Peace to calm her fear (pg. 879) but shifts to Betrayal when doubting Ulim (pg. 881), revealing her fractured trust. Her craving for the “new rhythms” (pg. 880) shows her addiction to the clarity Ulim provides, making her feel “old and dull” without him. This dependence mirrors her broader conflict: the rhythms symbolize both comfort and manipulation, reflecting her struggle to reconcile her actions with her growing unease. Their changing cadences mirror her wavering resolve, emphasizing her lack of autonomy.5. What foreshadowing exists in this chapter regarding the broader consequences of Venli and Ulim’s mission?
Answer:
Several details hint at impending disaster. Ulim’s mention of a “hidden storm” and “coming war” (pg. 880) suggests larger conflicts ahead. Axindweth’s discovery and flight (pg. 881) imply their plans are unraveling, while the presence of another “agent” in the palace raises stakes. Venli’s fear of being “crushed” by the boulder she set rolling (pg. 880) metaphorically foreshadows collateral damage. The gemstones’ undefined purpose—and Ulim’s urgency—hint at a looming escalation. Together, these elements create suspense, positioning Venli’s small-scale treachery as the spark for wider chaos.
Quotes
1. “Ulim assured her that her people had built equally grand structures once, and they would again. They would build such amazing creations, this palace of Kholinar would look like a hut by comparison.”
This quote captures Venli’s internal conflict between awe for human achievements and Ulim’s promises of future listener supremacy. It represents the chapter’s theme of ambition and manipulation, as Ulim stokes Venli’s pride to control her actions.
2. “She’d started this boulder rolling down the cliff. If she tried to stop it now, she’d be crushed.”
A powerful metaphor showing Venli’s realization of being trapped in her own conspiracy. This marks a key turning point where she begins questioning Ulim’s motives but feels powerless to change course.
3. “I shouldn’t have to expose myself… Someone needs to carry the gemstones… unless you want me to find someone else to be the greatest among your people.”
This exchange reveals the toxic dynamic between Venli and Ulim, showcasing his manipulation through threats and her dependence on his approval. It’s a crucial moment that exposes the true nature of their “partnership.”
4. “She hated that he took a human form rather than that of a listener.”
This subtle but significant detail underscores the growing cultural divide and foreshadows deeper betrayals. Venli’s discomfort with Ulim’s form represents her subconscious recognition that their alliance may not truly benefit her people.
5. “Axindweth says she’s been discovered… She’s decided to pull out.”
This revelation marks a major plot turning point, showing the conspiracy unraveling and introducing new danger. The failed communication highlights the precariousness of Venli’s position and the fragility of Ulim’s plans.