Dive into the fascinating dynamics of the Oathpact and its impact on beloved characters like Kaladin. Explore the complexities of his new herald powers, the transformative nature of the Everstorm, and the intricate relationships among the Heralds. Lively discussions on the ethical dilemmas of combat and the evolution of alliances reveal the characters' struggles and growth. The humor shines through as they engage in a guessing game about the expansive Cosmere, making connections that deepen the lore and excite fans.
The introduction of a new Oath Pact brings about complex mechanics that significantly alter the heralds' roles and responsibilities.
Kaladin's transformation into a herald is a pivotal development that hints at a deep evolution in his character arc.
The podcast explores the implications of the heralds' immortal nature, focusing on how their past shapes their present actions and choices.
The dynamic interactions between heralds and their powers create intriguing possibilities for storytelling across the broader Cosmere universe.
The hosts speculate on how developing relationships among characters will influence future plotlines, particularly regarding conflicts and alliances.
Deep dives
Explaining the Oath Pact
The podcast delves into the Oath Pact, with a focus on the significant changes that have occurred within this framework. A new version of the Oath Pact has emerged, which introduces more complex mechanics and implications for the characters involved. The hosts engage in a lively discussion about the differences between the old and new Oath Pacts, including how they affect the heralds and their responsibilities. They argue that while the original Oath Pact confined the heralds, the new one might grant them more freedom or new roles, which changes their dynamics with each other and their interactions with the world.
Kaladin's Transformation
Kaladin’s transformation into a herald sparks a robust discussion among the hosts, examining what this means for his character development. They consider the implications of his new powers and responsibilities, particularly the opportunities and challenges that arise from leading the heralds. The significance of Kaladin becoming a herald is compared to his previous roles, suggesting an evolution in his character that positions him as a more central figure in the ongoing conflicts. The hosts express excitement about the potential for Kaladin's story to evolve into something grander as he navigates this new identity.
The Nature of the Heralds
The hosts explore the complexities of the stalwart nature of the heralds themselves, discussing their long-standing histories and the burdens they carry. They examine how their past experiences shape their current actions and relationships within the context of the new Oath Pact. There is a lively debate about whether the heralds will retain their full powers or face limitations moving forward, particularly concerning their newfound connections to Roshar's natural powers. This analysis encourages speculation on how the herald's understanding of their identity might shift as they confront old patterns and new challenges.
Connections to the Cosmere
The podcast discusses the broader implications of the Oath Pact and heralds on the larger Cosmere, especially in light of the idea that the nature of the heralds could affect various worlds. The hosts share their thoughts on how the new powers might create more dynamic interactions between characters from different realms. They contemplate whether the dynamics established within the Oath Pact will influence future events across the Cosmere, including the connections between characters like Kaladin, the heralds, and their relationships with various shards. This opens up possibilities for future interactions that could bridge the gaps between different series.
Character Insights and Predictions
The discussion shifts to character predictions, particularly regarding how the heralds, including Kaladin, will interact with each other and affect the overarching story. The hosts express hopes that the relationships established in this new context will lead to meaningful character interactions and growth. They brainstorm about various potential unresolved storylines, such as how Kaladin’s former experiences will play into his new role. The possibility of old rivalries and friendships resurfacing amidst the shifting dynamics sets the stage for engaging character arcs, keeping listeners invested in where these narratives might lead.
Evolving Magic Systems
Throughout the discussion, the hosts highlight how the magic systems within the story are evolving alongside the heralds and the Oath Pact. They consider the implications of eternal struggle and the shifts in the nature of magic in the context of the heralds' new role and the sorcerous powers granted by the new Pact. The conversation touches on how the heralds’ powers might reflect or contrast with the existing systems, creating fresh opportunities for conflict and collaboration within the narrative. This examination reveals the intricate connections between the characters and the world-building behind the magic, deepening the listeners' appreciation of the series.
Strategic Narratives and Plot Development
The hosts elaborate on the strategic narrative decisions that lie ahead for the characters and the story itself. They delve into how the evolution of the heralds and the Oath Pact might influence the central plot tension and character motivations in future volumes. Strategies for unifying the characters amid differing objectives and ideologies illustrate the complexity of storytelling in the broader series. Preparing for potential confrontations and alliances, they highlight this narrative's tension and suspense, leaving listeners eager for future developments.
Connection to Past Books
Referencing previous volumes of the series, the podcast discusses how the new developments with the heralds and the Oath Pact connect to earlier themes established within the books. The hosts draw parallels between foreshadowed events and character motivations that now come to fruition with the latest revelations. They point out how previous observations about the heralds' weaknesses and struggles can inform how listeners perceive their evolution going forward. This reflection on past books enhances the overall depth and continuity of the narrative, enabling greater engagement from fans.
Immortality and the Past
The podcast discusses the implications of immortality in relation to the characters, particularly regarding how past experiences shape present actions. The hosts speculate about the psychological effects of being immortal for the heralds and how those experiences inform their decisions and behaviors. They emphasize the motivations behind the heralds' choices, especially regarding their new roles and identities. This leads to deeper insights into the emotional landscape of the characters and highlights the lasting impact of their experiences throughout the ongoing series.
Future Events and Expectations
Finally, the discussion wraps up with reflections on what the future might hold for the characters and the plot based on the revelations surrounding the Oath Pact and the heralds' new roles. The hosts express anticipation for potential storylines involving the heralds as they navigate their responsibilities and relationships in the wake of the recent changes. They ponder how future conflicts might arise from their actions and decisions, setting up exciting plot twists and dynamics. This concluding reflection sets the tone for listener expectations, inviting speculation about what will unfold in the subsequent installments.
Another Stormlight book, another Oathpact and Herald Shardcast. Wind and Truth spoilers abound, though!
This episode we have Eric (Chaos), Ian (Weiry), Evgeni (Argent), David (Windrunner), and Grace (thegatorgirl).
Thumbnail is Broken Oath, by Antti Hakosaari, which was in Call to Adventure: Stormlight Archive: https://coppermind.net/wiki/File:Broken_Oath_by_Antti_Hakosaari.jpg
Chapters:
0:00:00 Introductions
0:01:55 Replacement
0:36:58 Herald Powers, Oathpact Mechanics
0:55:22 New Oathpact
1:23:35 Sibling, Random Back Half Thoughts, Spren Thoughts
1:48:38 Battar and Other Heralds
2:00:19 More Syl Thoughts
2:08:45 Herald Abilities
2:29:01 Final Thoughts
2:38:07 Who's That Cosmere Character
If you like our content, support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/17thshard
Purchase merch here! https://store.17thshard.com/
For discussion, theories, games, and news, come to https://www.17thshard.com
Come talk with us and the community on the 17th Shard Discord: https://discord.gg/17thshard
Want to learn more about the cosmere and more? The Coppermind Wiki is where it's at: https://coppermind.net
Read all Words of Brandon on Arcanum: https://wob.coppermind.net
Subscribe to Shardcast: http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:102123174/sounds.rss
Send your Who's That Cosmere Characters to wtcc@17thshard.com
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
