Wind and Truth Chapter 12: Farewells and New Beginnings
⚠️ Spoiler Warning: This guide contains detailed spoilers for the entire novel. Proceed only if you've finished reading or are comfortable knowing the plot.
Summary
Kaladin flies with Syl above Urithiru, feeling the urgency to depart for Shinovar but delaying the farewell to Bridge Four. He recalls his conversation with Wit and the Wind's urging. He visits Teft's statue, then joins the celebration for Rlain, who has bonded a spren as a Truthwatcher. Kaladin congratulates Rlain and thanks him for staying with the group. When the squad gathers, Kaladin gives a speech praising their growth and warning that the enemy can now kill spren. He tells them Dalinar has ordered him west. After the speech, he reveals a tattoo artist and receives the Bridge Four glyphs on his forehead—this time the ink takes. He then privately names Sigzil the new Windrunner commander, reassuring Sigzil of his worth. Lopen offers his support with characteristic humor. Kaladin meets Szeth at the Oathgate platform. Szeth expresses a desire to return to Shinovar for justice or reconciliation, with Nightblood the sword interjecting. Kaladin activates the transfer, leaving Urithiru behind with Szeth.
Key Events
- Kaladin and Syl fly above Urithiru, observing the highstorm below.
- Kaladin attends Rlain's party and congratulates him on becoming a Truthwatcher.
- Kaladin gives a farewell speech to Bridge Four, warning them about anti-spren weapons.
- Kaladin gets a Bridge Four tattoo, which takes for the first time.
- Kaladin appoints Sigzil as the new commander of the Windrunners.
- Private farewell with Sigzil, Skar, and Lopen.
- Kaladin meets Szeth at the Oathgate platform and they depart for Azimir.
Character Development
- Kaladin: Accepts his past achievements without fear of punishment. Lets go of leadership to allow Bridge Four to move on. Shows emotional openness by crying during the tattoo scene.
- Sigzil: Expresses self-doubt about being a leader, but ultimately accepts Kaladin's charge. Reveals his vulnerability under the cynical exterior.
- Lopen: Demonstrates growth by showing restraint and offering a sincere farewell. Still uses humor but with added personal accountability.
- Rlain: Feels out of place as a non-Windrunner but is accepted by Bridge Four. Kaladin reassures him of his belonging.
- Szeth: Hints at a desire for justice or salvation in Shinovar. The sword Nightblood humorously suggests pancakes, highlighting Szeth's internal conflict.
Themes, Symbols, or Motifs
- Leadership transition: Kaladin steps away from command, highlighting the theme of legacy and trusting others.
- Tattoo as belonging: The Bridge Four tattoo symbolizes permanent acceptance and healing of Kaladin's past brands.
- Farewell and forward movement: The chapter emphasizes saying goodbye and moving toward an uncertain future.
- Light and darkness: The setting of sunset, diamond light, and storm clouds contrasts hope with impending danger.
Why This Chapter Matters
This chapter marks a significant turning point for Kaladin's arc: he finally accepts his own success and releases his role as Windrunner leader. It also solidifies the new command structure under Sigzil and sets Kaladin on his new path to Shinovar with Szeth. The personal farewells humanize the squad and underscore the stakes of the coming days.
Study Questions and Answers
- Why does Kaladin feel it's important to get the Bridge Four tattoo now? The tattoo represents his full acceptance of his identity and accomplishments. Earlier his body rejected the ink due to his psychological wounds; now that he has healed, the ink takes, symbolizing inner peace.
- What concerns does Sigzil express about becoming the new Windrunner commander, and how does Kaladin reassure him? Sigzil fears he lacks the inspirational qualities and is better suited as a scribe. Kaladin points to Sigzil's care for soldiers, his knowledge, his integrity in meetings, and his battle plans, telling him to trust Kaladin's judgment if not his own.
- How does Kaladin's attitude toward Moash change in this chapter? Kaladin no longer misses Moash but has eased his hatred, accepting that he cannot protect everyone. He still intends to confront Moash for Teft's sake, but the bitter anger has softened.