Heroes of presents: The Stormpod (A Stormlight Archive podcast) Stormpod- S4E18 Chapter 26- Book 4- Rhythm of War
Aug 13, 2025
In this discussion, Shallan takes the stage as she interrogates suspects on a barge, diving into espionage techniques. The hosts explore Shard theory, revealing the unique behaviors of investiture across different worlds. They'll tease out Shallan's emotional journey with cryptics, while also debating methods to confirm a device's movement. As the mystery deepens, Shallan's interactions with Ishna and Vatha unveil layers of deception and personal growth, blending spycraft with character transformation. It's an insightful blend of intrigue and introspection!
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Training Through Deliberate Hand-Off
- Vale coaches Shallan through espionage to teach skills rather than just solve the problem for her.
- The exercise is framed as training so Shallan can act independently when Vale cannot intervene.
Two-Step Spy Strategy
- Vale outlines a two-pronged plan: catch a lie or plant distinct false tidbits to trace leaks.
- The false-information method is chosen because it reveals which suspect reports to Merais by what detail gets leaked.
Fishing Out Ishna's Confession
- Shallan pressures Ishna with silence and implication until Ishna confesses to funding criminals unknowingly.
- The admission clears Ishna as the spy and gives Shallan leverage to help her exit that life.