User:Debarra/hoid

Drafty things here.

3.8/10

Debarra/hoid
by Ari Ibarra
Abilities	Lightweaving (Yolish), Mistborn, Awakener, Lightweaver (Surgebinder), Worldhopper, Dawnshard (formerly), others
Bonded With	Design
Aliases	Wit, Cephandrius, others
Groups	Worldsingers
Homeworld	Yolen
Universe	Cosmere

This page or section deals with theories or speculation.

Please read carefully and note that this is not necessarily canonical.

“And while I am your friend, please understand that our goals do not completely align. You must not trust yourself with me. If I have to watch this world crumble and burn to get what I need, I will do so. With tears, yes, but I would let it happen. ”

—Hoid to Dalinar

Hoid is one of the oldest and most mysterious characters present within the Cosmere. Originally from Yolen he was involved in the events of the Shattering and, like his peers, was offered a Shard but rejected the offer. Since then he became a worldhopper and gained a method that allowed him to foresee where events of great importance were going to take place, using this ability he would frequently arrive during these events and often become involved in them to some degree. He was present for the events of the original Desolations, the Invasion of Arelon, the Catacendre, the Pahn Kahl rebellion, the final assault on the Sorceress and the True Desolation. Despite the seemingly random nature of his actions Hoid in fact is on a quest of his own, with his various actions helping him achieve his ultimate goal. What this goal is however is unknown, though it is a highly controversial one among his peers who are aware of it.

Name and Nature

“I am but a man, Dalinar, so much as I wish it were not true at times.”

—Hoid to Dalinar on what he is.

The true nature of the entity known as 'Hoid' is unclear, he personally still identifies as a human and originally was born one. Since then however the nature of Hoid has changed, while many would still identify him as a human others would argue that it is more 'complicated' than that. Two reasons for this oddity are known, the first is the fact that Hoid predates the Shattering, and thus the radical changes it caused throughout the cosmere, as a result of this many of the Invested Arts behave oddly when interacting with him. The second is the dramatic change to his spiritweb that holding a dawnshard caused in him, this change is rare enough that no unified term exists to describe the changes that is caused within him, the transformation is also more extreme than what savants and Steel Inquisitors undergo, though his changes bare similarities with the latter. While it is difficult to define what Hoid is it is well known what he is not. He is not a Herald, Shard, nor a Vessel, he is not Adonalsium, nor the weapon that killed them. He is not a Sliver, a dragon, a founder of the Five Scholars, nor the oldest being in the Cosmere. He is also not a group of people pretending to be one man, nor a mass delusion. Whatever Hoid currently is, some consider it to make him one of the most powerful and dangerous non-Shard entities in the cosmere.

The other major unknown aspect of Hoid is his true name, 'Hoid' itself is not his birth name but rather one of his oldest and more well known aliases. Unlike some of his later aliases the name is not an invention made by Hoid but rather one that people on Yolen had used in the past, this may be connected to Hoid's claim that he took the name from a loved one. How this is connected to his other claim that he took the name from words on a page is unknown, though it is known that he is being literal when stating this.

“I've abandoned my real name. But when next we meet, I'll think of a clever one for you to call me.”

—Hoid to Dalinar

Prior to his usage of 'Hoid' as an alias 'Cephandius' was the most popular identity that Hoid worked under, while not his true name it is only a few decades off and closer to his 'real' self. This is one of his oldest and longest running identities, notably it is the one that the original vessels knew him under. Prior to his adoption of this identity however was that of 'Topaz' and with it the title of 'Bearer of the First Gem.' Those involved in the Shattering also were aware of this term but use it infrequently, it was a nickname based of the Dawnshard that Hoid used to wield. Despite this however Topaz is also not his true name. An old colleague of Hoids who was involved in the Shattering, Frost, mentions in a letter that he used to use the name of his old master as an alias, it is unknown if Frost was referring to the name 'Hoid,' 'Cephandius,' 'Topaz' or yet another identity when making this statement.

Since using these aliases Hoid has gone on to create even more false identities, aliases, nicknames and long term disguises for himself throughout the cosmere. Of these, those that are known are listed below:

Known Aliases

• Hoid
• Roamer
• Dust
• The King's/Queen's Wit
• Imperial Fool of the Rose Empire
• Topaz
• Drifter
• Wanderer
• Lunu'anaki
• Cephandrius Maxtori
• Midius
• Bearer of the First Gem

Appearance & Personality

by Randy Bishop

For more images, see /Gallery.

Hoid is quite adept at disguises thus making it difficult at times to discern what Hoid actually looks like, to further complicate matters he also alters aspects of his personality with each disguise in order to better suit the character he is trying to embody, this can make it difficult to discern his actual personality as well. However out of all his disguises the one that is closest to his true self, both in terms of personality and appearance, is that of the Kings Wit.

While appearing as the Kings Wit Hoid appears to be a tall individual with a hawkish face, sharp nose and jaw accompanied with delicate eyebrows with bright blue eyes. He has a character tick where he tends to cock his head to one side and his hair is jet black as well.^{[citation needed]} He appears to be in his mid-30s and wears a stiff black coat with which he carries a long thing sword at his waist. This sword is not invested and Hoid himself possess no skills in wielding a sword, instead it is a symbol of his position as the King's Wit and is of personal value to him.

While this closely aligns with his true appearance there are differences, two major ones of which are known, first Hoid's hair is naturally white and he dyes it various colours for his disguises. In addition to this Hoid is not exceptionally tall like all Rosharans, in fact by Rosharan standards he would be considered short. Hoid instead has made use of an unknown ability that allows him to alter how he is perceived, thus making people on Roshar think he is of average height.

In terms of personality Hoid is notable for initially appearing care free, outwardly it appears that very little worries him. Part of this may stem from his remarkable healing abilities making him immune to most weapons, including that of Shardblades. He still has however fears and things that worry him, among them is that of the Shard Odium which he considers to be one of the most evil entities in the Cosmere.^{[citation needed]} Another being that frightens him is Nightblood to the extent that he would refuse to even hold it, this stems from the fact that he believes it one of the few weapons in the Cosmere capable of killing him, and his great fear of the Beyond. As well as this Hoid's carefree nature also works to disguise the fact that everything he does or says has a purpose or meaning behind it, even if that thing is to drink a bottle of perfume or claim that he began as "words on a page." Hoid is far more delibreate in his actions than his projected personality would seem to be.^{[citation needed]} Endowment Wob.

In terms of his likes and dislikes bacon, instant noodles and milkshakes serve as Hoid's favourite food in the entire Cosmere, though it is notable that he can not actually eat bacon due to his Dawnshard.^{[citation needed]} He also is a fan of technologically advanced worlds, this makes Scadrial his favourite world to visit at the moment. In terms of his opinion of Roshar Hoid frequently makes fun of it as being too depressing and wet for his tastes, though it is home to Lightweaving which is his favourite form of investiture and also Cryptics his favourite type of spren. His favorite colors are that of black and silver. The role of Wit is his favorite to use but he does like the alias of Dust as well.

Likes and dislikes.

Go into disguises here:

Hoid however is a master of disguises and can make himself appear as unrecognisable, to the extent that those trained to spot him can fail at the task.

Out of all of his disguises however the one that fits his true self the closest both in terms of appearance and personality is that of Wit. He did this purposefully so he could more comfortably hold the role long term as he believed he would be on Roshar for some time.^{[citation needed]}

---

There is a particular reason for his hair being white, which will be revealed in the future.

“Those who "deserve" my mockery are those who can benefit from it.”

—Hoid explaining his choices to Dalinar.

Appearance:

• Natural white hair.
• Not born with white hair.
• Was not white haired when born but was by time of Dragonsteel.
• Dawnshard is related to first gem title.
• Has had tattoos.
• Sword uninvested but personal value to him.
• Sidesword is for show.
• Good at looking unrecognisable.
• Appears to be in his 30's, can look any age.
• Has dressed in drag.

Personality:

Hoid can be unintentionally misleading. Hoid has regrets. Malovent. Would be a forum troll. Lost something due to the Shattering. Happiest when getting away with something. Nervous due to Odium in Stormlight. Way of translation translates his words literally. Not used to spheres as currency.

Morality:

Hoid would not describe himself as a good person. Other people think he is helping them, is helping himself. Motives are varied, some think they are good others evil. Neutral Good according to himself, 17th Shard chaotic neutral and others chaotic evil. Would kill for his goals, some agreeable and others not. Emphatic but self centered on the large scale. Hoid things he is a bad guy. Aware of Harmony's manipulations with Wax.

Opinions:

Perceptions and beliefs. Thought shattering was necessary. Hoid can still eat. Hurting Kelsier. Can not eat meat. Can't eat bacon, Dawnshard. Soulcast and lab grown meat is okay, based on his perception. Curious if he can hurt a Herald or cognitive shadow, scholars think no.

Risk:

Rules of thumb, not as limited as Shards. Needs to be careful to not draw their attention. Reason for being on Roshar, wants to become a radiant. Hoid is a lightweaver, likes to play with fire. Not good at avoiding what is bad for him.

Joking:

Would call the Nightwatcher names. Aware of the Sleepless, knows the cremling in epilogue is one. Insults them with intelligence audience line. RoW Mink Chapter. Would be a forum troll. Could rip Shallan to shreds.

Roles:

Wit is his favourite role.

Relationship:

Design. Hoid versus Kelseir. Hoid and Kel. Hoid and Design not the best. Rarely get hugs, more commonly slapped or hit. Aware of the Set, mutual loathing. Would try and kill Amaram and Rashekk. Thinks highly of the Khlons, usually watches those he thinks shall be important. Interested in someone in particular. Could rip Shallan to shreds. Has a similar grudge against Rayse and Bavadin. Long time since he got a hug. There where people he thought he was going to help but failed. Tells people what he thinks they need, not always correct.

Fears:

Didn't have soulcasting, wary of it. Fears many things, as well as Odium. Was hiding from Odium. Sees Odium as evil.

Intelligence:

Legitimately tricked. Hoid suggested the plan for the Thrill. Odium was confident he could outsmart Hoid. Hoid studies things to sound smart, Khriss knows more. Not as clever as he thinks. Could rip Shallan to shreds. Tells people what he thinks they need, not always correct.

Misc:

Doesn't pay taxes. Has seen worlds die. Hoid spoke to the Skaze. Might have been offered a Shard. Went for wedding but then got distracted, his involvement on planets is based on how invested he is there. Stuck on Roshar. Has built up aggression, surprised he could hurt Kelsier as he usually can't hurt anyone. Not used to Rosharan ecology. Rules of thumb, not as limited as Shards. Needs to be careful to not draw their attention. Reason for being on Roshar, wants to become a radiant. Someone is gathering investiture. Is very hard to kill. Decided to try and play by magic's rules. Dalinar more prone to understand Hoid. Has faced attempted assassinations. Things in his past made him interested in Endowment. Hoid would by the type to submit a painting to the court of Gods. Sadeas had Hoid's flute, he wants it back. Likely to cheat at cards. Dissapointed in losing his flute. Not Whimsy. Been gone long enough that they know he will return. Got Lerasium to become an allomancer. Does not want to be linked to a Shard, avoids Hemalurgy. Allomancer, used emotional allomancy. Consdiers it cheating. Attracts wrong attention. Owns many hemalurgic spikes. Has gone by Topaz. Hoid is his own best kept secret. Connected to worldsingers. If tempted by a shard would be endowement.

Hoid has no interest in holding the power within the well in the form that it was in.

Hoid's true personality, while also usually disguised, is more easily seen as he occasionally drops whatever part he is playing. One of his overall most noticeable traits is his sharp wit and intelligence. The characters he plays often have a penchant for jokes and mockery but when he removes the facade his personality often seems mysterious and grave. If he was asked about whether he called himself a good man personality-wise, Hoid would reply with a "No". Hoid is not always serious when he should be, due to how much normal human interaction bores him.

Hoid cannot directly physically harm people; this is an involuntary trait that is the result of changes to his spirit made during his time as a Dawnshard. Rock says he cannot hurt man because it is forbidden by other gods. He also tells a young Shallan, "You needn't fear me. I'm terribly ineffective at hurting people. I blame my upbringing." Hoid apologizes to Kelsier after beating him in a fight, stating he doesn't have the inclination to do real harm to him. This aversion causes him to be nauseated when thinking about physically harming someone, and is sometimes bad enough to incapacitate him. However, this only extends to physical trauma- Hoid has no issues with mentally hurting someone or through inaction. Hoid also has issues with harming himself physically, such as when he has to manipulate another man into punching him when he wants a tooth knocked out, rather than just doing it himself.

Attributes and Abilities

by taratjah

Creating illusions

Being as well travelled and old as he is Hoid has learned a great deal of skills and gained access to many abilities throughout his life. This makes him a formidble individual, to the extent that some consider him to be among the most powerful entities of the entire Cosmere

Skills

As an individual who is as old as he is Hoid has learned a great variety of legitimate skills that are not linked to magic or any of its other effects. One notable skill is that of his musical ability... Among the instruments he can play are the piano, harmonica, guitar^{[citation needed]} and flute.

In addition to his music Hoid is notable for his ability with disguises, despite appearing to be in his 30's he is capable of appearing to be any age though it is notable that while pretending to be old those he was talking to could quickly work out that he was younger than he was aiming for.^{[citation needed]} In the past he has convincingly even dressed in drag.

In addition to this Hoid considers himself to not only be an artist but also an art critic, taking great pride in both roles. He is also a skilled player of Tarachin, to the extent that he could defeat Lightsong in a game. He also possess great ability at drawing and sketching.

Despite this however Hoid is not proficient in every skill and in fact is severely lacking in several, it has been noted that his handwriting is among the worst the Cosmere has ever seen and if given the opportunity would prove himself to be a terrible pilot. As well as this he is quite bad as sword skills with the sidesword he wears whilst in the role of Wit being there purely for show and as a badge of honor.

Hoid has also come to own a wide variety of useful objects...

Owns the mansion itself. Gave Vienna aluminium, bag is lined with it. Lightweaving might help storytelling. Has a homebase. Sword uninvested but personal value to him. Good at looking unrecognisable. Hoid also has an unknown seon. Both magical and mundane means to know his stories. Does not have an Honorblade. Has access to unkeyed metal minds. Has a home base on Shadesmar. Couldn't alloy lerasium. Has lerasium, possess other items as well. Hoid has no Honorblades. Has access to atium. Owns many hemalurgic spikes. Has a metal he shouldn't have. (Probably Lerasium) Took the Moon sceptor to work out how to use Selish magic. Moon sceptor part of a much larger puzzle. Wanted the sceptor for more than just putting Shai in prison. rosetta stone Rose Scepter. Hoid got the information he wanted from it. Specific to understanding the magic of Sel. Sceptor was important to Hoid. Rose Sceptor related to the proximity problem on Sel. Sceptor works as rosetta stone.???

Storytelling

“The purpose of a storyteller is not to tell you how to think, but to give you questions to think upon.”

—Hoid on the art of storyteliing.

Another notable skill that Hoid possess is that of his storytelling ability, the methods he uses are mundane rather than based upon magical in nature, it is also a style that he developed by himself independently and did not borrow from other worlds, though it is possible he developed it whilst on Yolen thus making his statement to Siri through. He uses a variety of props in order to assist his ability to convey certain ideas to the listener, most notably that of smoke and sand. Other props he has used at various stages is that of dust, dirt, paper, clay, grass, water and flower petals.

Another important piece of equipment that he uses for his story telling is that of his flute, or whatever musical instrument he has on hand with him at the time. During his story told to Kaladin he used the natural acoustics of the charms to assist his ability so that the echo would return as he was explaining the story.

Magic

In terms of magical ability Hoid is an individual that is significantly powerful with a wide variety of abilities that he is able to access. Some individuals consider Hoid to be among the most deadly non-Shard entities that currently exist within the Cosmere, though other beings would be able to achieve a similar level of threat if they so wished. While not having access to the magic system from every world that he has visited Hoid still has a substantial number of abilities, even if they do not measure in the hundreds, some of which predate the Shattering. Due to his dislike of allowing the Shards to hold any sway over him Hoid has purposefully sought out magic through more conventional, if more difficult, means and has avoided using abilities such as Hemalurgy to gain these abilities. This aversion to Hemalurgy also stems from his recent desire to play by magics "rules" in order to access it, as such he tries to obtain them through conventional means. As of the True Desolation Hoid has access to allomancy, lightweaving and awakening as well as more forms of Invested Arts. Due to the large changes made to the Cosmere following the death of Adonalsium magic can react unusually around Hoid.

“He leaned forward and dropped into the small pool with a splash. Then vanished.”

—Hoid using a Perpendicularity to enter the Cognitive Realm.

Hoid uses perpendicularities in order to travel throughout the Cosmere. Perpendicularities form when a large amount of investiture gathers into one location and causes the borders between realms to weaken, a knowledgeable individual such as Hoid is then able to manipulate this weakening in order to slip from the Physical realm to the Cognitive. The geography of the Cognitive Realm then allows Hoid to travel from one world to another, then once there all he must do is find another perpendicularity in order to physically enter that world, this allows him to visit numerous worlds with each trip taking him a number of days, if not months, to make. Hoid is proficient in travelling the cognitive realm in this way, even being able to reach perpendicularities that are considered dangerous to enter such as the Well of Ascension and those on Sel, though the latter stresses his abilities. As part of this he is aware of the location of perpendicularities on Scadrial, Sel, Roshar, and Nalthis, as well as more. Previously he had attempted to reach First of the Sun using this method but failed for reasons unknown. While historically having to rely on these naturally occuring means Hoid would later develop a means of creating his own perpendicularities due to his bond with Design. It is unclear if he will use these abilities however as he is wary of the rest of the Surge.

Hoid has access to some manifestation of Investiture that allows him to manipulate the Spiritual attributes of Connection. The full extent of this ability is unknown, but one known use is to help Hoid speak the various languages of the worlds that he visits, he achieves this by manipulating his connections to make his Spiritual aspect believe that he was raised in that place, thus allowing him to speak as a native would. Although Hoid is naturally gifted at learning multiple languages he still feels the need to use Connection in order to master them and better pass off as a local, which he often feels the need to. Because of this he often communicates through Connection rather than normally learning the language. Hoid is proficient enough in this style that he can speak without an accent and even allows him to use puns and idioms that work in the native languages. This however is not a perfect system because if Hoid tries to use a particular term or word that does not translate cleanly into his chosen language the magic can "glitch" and translate what he said verbatim even if it would not make sense for a local to say. Part of these slips of the tongue stem from what he is used to, since Hoid is unused to Roshar's culture and ecology^{[citation needed]} he can be caught referring to things as "coins" or mentioning "bunnies" even though no local would know what he meant. Another trick Hoid is able to achieve with this manipulation of Connection is being able to enter and exit certain visions, as well as bringing along those who he is bonded with, like Design. While in these visions Hoid seems to have some ability to control them, being capable of summoning whatever objects he needs, however he is only able to maintain this for around twenty minutes before he is detected doing so.

“I have discovered a place that I must be, though to be honest I'm not exactly sure why I need to be there. This doesn't always work as well as I'd like it to.”

—Hoid to Dalinar

Another ability that Hoid has gained via unknown means is that of access to fortune, using this ability Hoid is given direction on where he is meant to be and what he is meant to do, but not the reason behind either of these things. It is this ability that draws him to where important events are taking place however this is not always a fully reliable system as often times he is sent to worlds where he discovers that nothing personally interests him. The ability is also further limited in how it is unreliable on telling him on what to do once at the correct place, in some situations he has clear instructions to avoid certain actions or events yet in other cases gives him no information on what he is supposed to do. Another disadvantage to this ability is the fact that he is not usually granted knowledge as to why he is to be where he is, or do what he is supposed to. Hoid has become adept at covering this disadvantage up however, making it unclear if his peers are aware of this aspect of his ability. Further complicating matters for Hoid is the often obtuse nature of these directions, such as driving him to the front lines of an active warzone solely so he would have the slim chance of becoming a radiant. Despite this flaw however Hoid often uses this ability and allows it to guide him as to what system he will be next. [Kaladin WoK citation.]

“I can know where I'm supposed to be, Shallan, but not always what I'm supposed to do there.”

—Hoid explaining his ability to Shallan

How Hoid has access to this ability is unknown, it functions off the same principle as the feruchemical ability Chromium however it is not an ability granted by Feruchemy. This ability also grants Hoid a measure of knowledge about the future, notably this is the ability that first made him aware of the existence of instant noodles. Despite this however the ability is limited in scope.

“I'd be surprised if that little knife of yours poses me any real threat, Kholin.”

—Hoid to Jasnah on her Shardblade

Yet another powerful ability that Hoid has access to from an unknown source is that of healing, this method repairing both his body and also his soul. This ability can be suppressed for a time in order to assist his disguises however when in use any part of his physical body that is harmed can be repaired, from something minor like his fingers to something of great importance like his head. His spiritual self is also in a simialr manner contrinuially healed, making him capable of healing from a hemalurgical and Shardblade wound. Due to this it is exceedingly difficult to kill Hoid. Despite this however it is still possible for Hoid to be killed, Hoid himself fears that Nightblood has a chance to permanently kill him and he also claims that a Shard such as Odium would be capable of such a feat. While the source of his healing is unknown it is ancient and possibly related to his holding a Dawnshard.

“I cannot risk too much because if he finds me then I become nothing - a soul shredded and broken into pieces that cannot be reassembled.”

—Hoid to Dalinar on what Rayse would do if he found him.

In addition to the above Hoid possesses other abilties that are not directly correlated to any known aspect of physics in the Cosmere, these include the ability to detect when investiture is being used near him as well as another ability that helps assist him in suppressing his own investiture to try and avoid detection. The former would allow him to theoritically notice the presense of a Dawnshard. He also has an ability that allows him to be aware of things that he shouldn't be. His abilities with magic also grants him an advantage in knowing his stories. He also possesses an unknown ability that lets him change how he is perceived by others. Hoid also possesses an unknown Seon. He is not as limited as Shards in terms of the actions he can take.

There are however limits to his ability in magic, for example Hoid does not have access to soulcasting and is wary of it as an ability. It is possible that Hoid has access to some form of sand mastery. The sword he carries is uninvested but still of personal value to him.

Dawnshard

“'Old' is a word you use for worn shoes. I'm something else entirely.”

—Hoid to Shallan when she calls him 'old'.

Hoid in the past had held a Dawnshard which dramatically changed his spiritweb, this change has arguably made Hoid no longer a human and is considered a stranger transformation than what savant's and Steel Inquistors have undergone. A part of this shift Hoid gained numerous abilities which still persist to the present day, the most notable of these is that it grants Hoid is famed immortality, preventing him from visibly aging at all. This has allowed him to become one of the oldest beings in the entire Cosmere, predating even the birth of the original sixteen vessels. Despite this however Hoid has not lived all the years that he has lived through, this is related to an ability he has to cause time dilation.

“Lamu'anaki cannot hurt man. Is forbidden by other gods. Everyone knows this.”

—Rock discussing Hoid

Another startling effect of the Dawnshard is it causing his inability to harm others, this ability is involuntary and is a side effect of having held the Dawnshard at some stage over his life. This ability however is molded by Hoid's own perceptions and beliefs, so long as he thinks an action would cause physical harm to an individual he can not undertake that act, if however he does not think an action would cause such harm he may do so. It is because of this that Hoid is able to socially or psychologically harm someone as he does not perceive such a thing to be like physically hurting someone. While he can still eat this also prevents Hoid from eating meat, including bacon his favorite dish. Artificial meat, such as that which is soulcast or grown in a lab, is fine for him to eat however as he does not see it as harming an entity. This feature also allowed him to harm Kelsier as he did not count cognitive shadows as people at the time, since then he has grown curious on if this means he could hurt other cognitive shadows or Heralds, however scholars think not.

Dawnshard is related to first gem title. Influence

by Gar_leyva

Light Weaving

“I see. You do not yet understand the nature of lies. I had that trouble myself, long ago. The Shards here are very strict. You will have to see the truth, child, before you can expand upon it. Just as a man should know the law before he breaks it. ”

—Hoid on Lightweaving to Shallan

Has multiple forms of lightweaving. Rules of thumb, not as limited as Shards. Needs to be careful to not draw their attention. Reason for being on Roshar, wants to become a radiant. Hoid is a lightweaver, likes to play with fire. Lightweaving might help storytelling. Lightweaver before the Shattering, OG lightweaver. Has a long quest to try and get some form of lightweaving permanently. Yolish lightweaving not fully functional. Lightweaving probably favourite type of investiture. Design.

Hoid has access to an Invested Art known as Lightweaving that originates from Yolen prior to the Shattering of Adonalsium. Lightweaving allows for the creation of optical and auditory illusions. This Lightweaving is much less restrictive than the later Rosharan variant, and does not require a spren or Stormlight to function. Hoid sometimes makes use of this ability in his disguises although he has several ways of changing how he looks including practical effects. He may also make use of it in some of his storytelling, such as the pictures of Derethil and the Wandersail that Kaladin sees in the smoke when Hoid is telling him a story.

Hoid's Yolish Lightweaving does not always seem to function perfectly on Roshar; in fact, he needs help from Shallan to fully craft an illusion. His power is somehow limited, and he has trouble making some aspects of it work, even after multiple attempts. It is uncertain why this occurs and whether or not this issue is unique to Roshar. Hoid's bonding of a Cryptic will provide abilities that supplement his own Lightweaving and allows him to overcome his issues crafting illusions, although further impacts or resonances between the two are unknown. Hoid's access to Yolish Lightweaving does allow him to guide another Lightweaver's power, although this is not something he would be able to do with just any Invested Art.

Surge Binding

by Elisgardor

Hoid with Design

“It's either go with me now or wait it out and get captured. I honestly don't even know if you've the mind to listen. But if you do, know this: I will give you truths. And I know some juicy ones. ”

—Hoid to his Cryptic, Design

Design.

Hoid has bonded the Cryptic Design, which grants him access to Surgebinding. While the enhanced reflexes and healing permitted by Stormlight will likely be less useful to Hoid, the Nahel bond allows him to access the surges of Illumination and Transformation. This allows Hoid to Soulcast, transforming one type of matter to another by persuading its Cognitive aspect as well as Lightweaving, which grants him the ability to create visual and auditory illusions. This Rosharan Lightweaving seems to have a compounding effect with his Yolish Lightweaving, and allows him to circumvent the problems that he has experienced with his own illusions. Although Hoid's Ideals are unknown, it may eventually grant him a Shardblade and Shardplate.

Elantrian

“It was constructed of Aons. Which I could now draw. The mechanics might bore you. The results, though, were spectacular.”

—Hoid's Narration, Tress of the Emerald Sea

Hoid became an Elantrian through winning a bet he made with Riina, a member of The Ire. Despite his short time with the power, Hoid showed a notable aptitude for the manipulation of Aons, being able to edit a complex AonDor "curse" placed on Charlie by Riina, who herself is a highly experienced wielder of AonDor. Additionally, Hoid was shown to have spent significant time coveting this specific Invested art.

Tries to get Aondor and fails. Has tried and failed to access the Dor. Can't transport Aondor. Tried to become an elantrian, knew a lot more about the Cosmere by the time of Mistborn era 1. Took the Moon sceptor to work out how to use Selish magic. Moon sceptor part of a much larger puzzle. Wanted the sceptor for more than just putting Shai in prison. rosetta stone Rose Scepter. Hoid got the information he wanted from it. Specific to understanding the magic of Sel. Sceptor was important to Hoid. Rose Sceptor related to the proximity problem on Sel. Sceptor works as rosetta stone.???

Metallic Arts

Hoid is a mistborn after having consumed a piece of Lerasium after a visit to the Well of Ascension. Due to this he has a power equivalent to that of the ancient Allomancers. Hoid generally refrains from using Allomancy as he considers it a form of cheating and worries it would attract the wrong kind of attention, however he has been known to use emotional allomancy in the past. Due to the changed nature of the Shard Hoid draws upon the power of Harmony when using these abilities.

Hoid is not a Feurchemist, having previously travelled to Terris to try and work out how to access such abilities. However despite this he has access to unkeyed metalminds, potentially allowed him to access such abilities anyway. Hoid actively avoids Hemalurgy as an art as he consideres it dangerous and is concerned that it would open him up to the influence of other Shards, this caution however does not stop him from owning numerous spikes. Hoid also has access to the godmetal atium, he is unable to make alloys of such metals however.

Awakening

“Perfect pitch makes this all so much easier than it once was.... ”

—Hoid to Kaladin on making music

Can't lose perfect pitch due to time. Used Breath. Hoid can't awaken stormlight. Did not awaken while playing with Kaladin.

As a Yolish man, Hoid was not himself born with any BioChromatic Breath. However at some point Hoid has gained access to enough BioChromatic Breath to bring him to at least the Second Heightening. This means Hoid has at least two hundred Breaths, which grant him the ability to recognize unsupressed Breath auras and judge about how much breath another Awakener has, as well as perfect pitch. That is not to say that Hoid may not have reached a higher Heightening, just that the second Heightening is his minimum power level. Hoid's level of skill with Awakening is still unknown, as he has only made use of it on one known occasion, when he Awakened a doll, causing it to walk. This makes it difficult to ascertain his knowledge of Commands or complex Awakenings. Hoid's level of control over Investiture does allow him to suppress his Breath aura, making it difficult to notice by others. However, there are various methods of detecting Investiture that could circumvent this suppression. Hoid's perfect pitch does aid him in tuning instruments and making music. Additionally, holding Breath has allowed Hoid to somehow outsource some of his memory to said Breath. After Odium's destruction of some of these Breaths in order to wipe his short-term memory, his level of Breath was reduced to just under the Second Heightening, resulting in a loss of perfect pitch.

History

• Has multiple forms of lightweaving.

Wit is his favourite role. Aware of Harmony's manipulations with Wax.

Noodles are not native to Yolen and he knows about them the same way he knows where to go.

Decided to try and play by magic's rules. Hurting Kelsier.

was once the most powerful person in the Cosmere.

Origins

“Other men . . . other men, as they age, merely grow stranger. I fear that I am one of those. I am the bones of a foreign species left drying on the plain that was once, long ago, a sea. A curiosity, perhaps a reminder, that all has not always been as it is now.”

—Hoid on his age

At an unknown date the individual who would later become known as Hoid was conceived naturally under wedlock on Yolen. From an early age he developed a fascination with the topic of whether life existed on other planets and often listened to local philosophers debate the topic. Later on as an adult Hoid ended up holding a Dawnshard, for reasons unknown this Dawnshard was associated with Topaz and thus earned him one of his oldest aliases as well as the title 'Bearer of the First Gem'. Holding this Dawnshard had a profound effect on Hoid as it permanently altered his spiritweb, stopped him from aging and caused him to be unable to harm others. Around the same time, for reasons also unknown, Hoid's hair changed from its natural colour to pure white and he also gained access to numerous systems of investiture that predated the Shattering, notable among these was Yolish Lightweaving which he would continue to use throughout his life. Whilst a Dawnshard Hoid travelled throughout Yolen and met various Sho Del and Dragons, as well as this he was known to get in trouble due to his ability to Lightweave. During this period Hoid also had served a 'master' of some form who would later die, it is from them that he would later take the name of Hoid.

by Connor Chamberlain

A depiction of the Shattering of Adonalsium

Eventually Hoid met and befreinded Frost who was his elder by a small amount. Shortly afterwards Hoid assumed the identity of Cephandrius Maxtori and under this alias became acquainted with the sixteen original vessels, thus granting him a level of insight as to each of their personalities. Hoid became drinking buddies with Tanavast and upon meeting him considered Ati to be one of the nicest people he ever met. Notably during this time he met and became good friends with Rayse. He also developed an interest in the Endowment Shard during this period of his life.

For reasons unknown the idea of killing Adonalsium emerged, whilst reluctant to help with this idea Hoid did believe it to be necessary. Hoid was present during the events of the Shattering, although he did not directly participate in events as they played out, despite this however the Dawnshards, of which he was one, were used in order to kill Adonalsium.}} Immeidately upon the Shattering taking place the original sixteen Shards were created, Hoid was offered one of these but refused it, due to his refusal someone else became a vessel in his place. In the ensuing discussion Hoid did imply, but not promise, that he would not interfere with the other Shards or there activities in the future, this implication would be broken many times in the ensuing years.

Like with the rest of the Cosmere the Shattering had a large impact on himself, one such change was that of investiture which has behaved 'oddly' around him ever since, as well as this his Lightweaving then suddenly had issues functioning as it had before. As well as this Hoid lost someone very dear to himself due to the event, and also left the encounter holding a grudge against Rayse and Bavadin. In the years following the Shattering Hoid eventually gave up his Dawnshard and left Yolen, going on to explore the wider Cosmere.

and left with the impression that Odium was evil.

Following The Shattering

Following the events of the Shattering Hoid began exploring the Cosmere in earnest, this involved discovering the location and nature of perpendicularities. These would remain the primary method of travel for him for the rest of his travels throughout his life. Upon discovering one Hoid can use it to enter Shadesmar, from there he uses the natural geography of the region to his advantage, walking from one world to another. Once he arrives in a new populated system Hoid then simply finds another perpendicularity in order to allow him to enter the worlds physical realm. Because of this his travels from world to world actually takes place over a long period of time, even into months.

Using this method Hoid went on to explore the many worlds that populate the Cosmere, among them is the world that Frost currently inhabits, Threnody, a world which he claimed was full of cannibals, and many more. He had previously tried to access First of the Sun but failed. During his ventures he ended up having multiple tattoos at one point or another, watched multiple worlds die, was decapitated, and lost multiple fingers. He also met and formed multiple love interests, despite this however it was rare for him to get hugs as many instead responded with violence upon meeting him. Throughout his travels he had a habit of arriving at a system before realising that nothing of importance was happening to interest him causing him to leave again very quickly.

Some of the sixteen likes Hoid. Not the oldest being in the Cosmere. There where people he thought he was going to help but failed. He also did something in his past that he regretted.

The Desolations

Throughout his travels Hoid continued to hold his grudge against Rayse, his belief that Odium was evil was only further emboldened upon witnessing the Shard Splinter Devotion, Dominion and Ambition.(epigraphs ref) Due to this Hoid eventually became involved with the Desolations on the side of Honor and the Radiant's. As part of this each of the ten Heralds became familiar with Hoid under his alias of 'Midius,' to such an extent that one of the Heralds can recognise Hoid based solely upon his sketches of them. During this time he managed to visit Aimia, became aware of the Sleepless and Larkins, spoke to the Nightwatcher and attempted to form a Nahel Bond but ultimately failed. Despite this however he never grew used to Roshar's ecology.

“Rayse is captive. He cannot leave the system he now inhabits. His destructive potential is, therefore, inhibited.”

—Frost discussing the end state of the Desolations.

His involvement eventually became such that Odium began to instruct the Fused on how to find and detect Hoid even when disguised. Despite this however there was an incident in which Hoid managed to attend a dance undetected by Vatwha and other fused despite him dancing with them, they became familiar to the extent that even centuries later Hoid could recognise Vatwha although she failed to see through his disguise. Ultimately Odium would be contained to the Rosharan system due to Taln maintaining the Oathpact by himself, seemingly satisfied Hoid would then leave the system and not return for quite sometime. His memory however continued to persist there however, primarily through the worship of himself by the Unkalaki as the deity 'Lunu'anaki.'

Been a Wit for more than ELhokar and Jasnah, thoughts on the role of Wit.

Gave advice to the Heralds.

After the Last Desolation and Odiums containment

Following the Last Desolation and Odium becoming trapped on Braize Hoid left the Rosharan system and explored the wider Cosmere, during this time period Hoid managed to play a role in the founding of the Worldbringers and Worldsingers^{[citation needed]} (Kwaam epigraph reference.) He also travelled to another world where he became a renowned gambler for a time, before ultimately losing all his worth over a game ending in a tie. Around this stage it also appears Hoid may visited Obrodai, what he did on the world is unknown but he angered Autonomy enough for her to later form an avatar there with an overpowering dislike for Hoid.

Later on Hoid went on to travel to Taldain for unknown reasons, he visited often enough that the Diem recognised his existence and began investigating his nature and ability to get off world.. During a later visit Hoid found himself on world following the destruction of the Diem and the Ak'ar's attempted rise to power, while there he got involved in a criminal case that Ais was investigating and was present when the Taishin voted to disband the Diem. Following the collapse of support for the Ak'ar and the saving of the Diem by their new leader Hoid managed to get on the same boat as Khriss as she departed to Darkside where he sang a song to passangers about the meaning of art. During a later visit Hoid would eventually enjoy instant noodles whilst on Taldain.

• In whitesand.
• Hoid in Whitesand. Influence.

The Restoration of Elantris

“There is beauty in every disaster, friend, if you are clever enough to find it.”

—Hoid to a skaze

Hoid had travelled to Sel on numerous occasions, each time stressing his resources to their limits but he considered the trip worth his effort on all occasions. Hoid presumably made frequent use of Dominion's perpendicularity when travelling due to his unfamiliarity with Devotion's Perpendicularity in Arelon and his knowledge of the Skaze who are of Dominion. Upon arriving to the system Hoid had spoken to the Skaze and agreed to work alongside them, part of this involved helping him test a theory he had which was that by entering Devotion's Perpendicularity he could transform into an Elantrian and thus access the Dor. In order to facilitate this bet he entered the physical realm and began travelling towards the city of Elantris. Along the way Hoid began directing a group of homeless beggars as a smuggling ring, disguising himself as a homeless individual in the process, eventually his group was hired out by Sarene to smuggle weapons into Elantris. Sarene noticed that Hoid was apprehensive and concluded it was due to his remaining fear of being punished by king Iadon, she tried to calm him and brushed off his questions about what the bozes contained before turning to leave. She ordered her Seon Ashe to inform the city that a shipment was incoming and left as Hoid and his men began climbing the wall to enter the city. Following the Resoration of Elantris Hoid finally managed to enter the perpendicularity within the city and approached it with a Skaze tailing him. Hoid seemed convinced that by entering the pool he would become an Elantrian, eagerly he tested this theory by diving in with bandages and then removed them in order to inspect what transformation had taken place. To his surprise there was none and the Skaze began to mock him for thinking that this plan would actually work. He was not bothered by this however and began sharing a personal ancedote from his past with the Skaze in which he revealed that every disaster has some kind of beauty attached to it. The Skaze showed a sense of humour to Hoid's surprise and then questioned what he thought was the beauty in this disaster, to which Hoid clarified the fact that the Cosmere could still surprise him even after all his time alive and how much he had left to learn. With that Hoid then dived into the pool and re-entered the Cognitive Realm leaving the Skaze behind in the city.

“He had duped her. He had duped them all, the Grands, the empire itself.”

—Shai contemplating how thorough Hoid's trickery was.

Following this failure Hoid began to learn a great deal more about the Cosmere. As part of this Hoid desired to better understand the Selish Invested Arts and years later concluded that the Moon Scepter could help him achieve this goal. The Scepter functions like a Rosette Stone in order to explain how everything on Sel was interconnected and all functioned, as such Hoid felt that he needed it to progress along his goal. As well as that it could help him resolve the geographic limitations of Selish magic. Despite this however the Sceptor was a small part of a much larger puzzle.

by botanicaxu

The cast of The Emporer's Soul, Hoid from the second right by User: Botanicaxu.

In order to try and steal the Sceptor Hoid carefully moved into the position of the Royal Fool in Emperor Ashravan's royal court. Having such a high position in the Rose Empire he then manipulated events to his own end, partnering up with a local Forger named Shai, together they hatched a plan which involved Shai impersonating a noble, breaking into the Royal Gallery and then finally stealing the Moon Scepter itself. Hoid felt that he couldn't trust Shai with the Scepter however and instead set up events so she would be arrested and he could escape with it for himself, leaving a duplicate behind. This duplicate was eventually taken by the Rose Empire to be legitimate. Before leaving with the Scepter Hoid came down and apologised for the betrayal of Shai, going so far as to compliment her intelligence and cunning. He informed her that an opportunity would soon arrive for her to work towards freedom, an event that may have been the offer to fix Ashravan's soul itself, he did not imprison her for the chance to fix him however but rather felt her imprisonment was truly necessary for his goals. With that Hoid then left the Empire and got the information he wanted from the Scepter however despite his efforts could never work out how to access the Dor nor how to overcome its geographic limitations. He did however manage to create a permanent grudge in Shai against him as she swore to hunt him down upon obtaining her freedom.

The Catacendre

“Your worry over this house is meaningless! You should pick a house more central to politics.”

—Hoid letting growing frustrated with Kelseir.

Following his travels on Sel Hoid would later arrive on Scadrial making use of Ruin's Perpendicularity. Once there he took up the guise of a Skaa informant where he swiftly gained a reputation of being an excellent source of information, this reputation eventually reached the ears of Dockson who then told Kelsier about him. Kelseir decided to set up a meeting with him and wanted to insure that nobody had caught on to his plot, as such he asked Hoid to investigate House Renoux. Hoid began his investigations and whilst doing so infiltrated House Elariel disguised as a servent, during his tenure there a fire started and Shan Elariel used her allomancy to calm her workers, this made Hoid realise that she was a Soother. Following this he then arrived at the agreed location and time for Kelsier, the latter was late to arrive and so Hoid began to smoke tobacco which flaunted his wealth in this role. During their meeting Hoid insisted to be paid upfront and also feigned blindness in order to put Kelsier at ease, he answered his questions and handed over what little information he had on House Renoux, which was very little. He informed Kelsier that the house was buying up weapons and that rumours of a relationship between Vin and Elend were spreading, and that House Renoux had some sort of leverage over House Venture. After being pushed for more Hoid snapped at Kelsier and told him that he had nothing else to add as House Renoux was largely irrelevant to the growing conflict between houses and implied he had more interesting information about House Elariel. In order to keep Hoid's suspicions away Kelsier turned to discuss other houses where Hoid mentioned his information about Shan. Following this Kelsier then purposefully gave Hoid disinformation, which he grew visibly excited by, before leaving. As soon as Kelsier left Hoid dropped the act of being blind. Following this Hoid then stayed around for a little longer before leaving the system, prior to Kelsier destroying the pits.

“You are very bad at doing as you're supposed to.”

—Hoid meeting Kelseir again.

by botanicaxu

Kelsier's and Hoid's battle.

Later Hoid returned to Scadrial, intent on getting a bead of Lerasium so that he could become a mistborn. Upon returning to the subastral Hoid discovered that Ruins perpendicularity had been destroyed by Kelsier, thus disrupting interplanetary trade, this left the Well of Ascension as the only way to enter the physical realm. This perpendicularity was harder and more dangerous to access however, leaving Hoid the only individual brave enough to attempt it, before leaving for this trip Khriss and Nazh became aware of his intentions with it but made no effort to stop or dissuade him. in order to sail to the perpendicularity Hoid found a cognitive shadow, named Spanky, and used it as a boat and covered his oar with investiture in order to move around. Upon arriving to the Well he expressed surprise at discovering Kelsier was within it, taking the chance Hoid mocked him for his predicament of being trapped in the well considering it poetic that he would be trapped in Ati's prison following his destruction of the Pits of Hathsin. Hoid stayed back, cautious that Kelsier may try to prevent him entering the physical realm, and continued to try and distract Kelsier with more mockery of his physical appearance, Kelsier however noted his hesitance. Seeing that Kelsier wanted to know how to escape the well Hoid offered for them both to play an insult battle, with the prize being a true answer to one question. Hoid offered to go first and then Kelsier decided to threaten to murder him, Hoid tried to play this off before making an attempt for the pool but Kelsier attacked him. The pair fought, during which Hoid was surprised to discover that his usual prohabition against harm did not apply to Kelsier, this was because of his perception that Kelsier was already dead and therefore could not be harmed. Due to this Hoid let out a good deal of repressed anger and easily overpowered Kelsier, causing him a great deal of pain. Following this defeat Hoid then apologised to Kelsier for the battle and implied that he had intended him to defeat Rashek all along, before finally turning away and entering the physical realm. Once there he wasted no time in grabbing the bead of Lerasium and leaving the Well. Hoid made sure to only take one bead since his intution told him that taking two would lead to terrible consequences. Later on Hoid would burn the Lerasium and become a mistborn, though he did not do this immediately.

Following his arrival to the physical realm Hoid turned his attention to uncovering how Feruchemy worked and if he could possibly obquire it, in order to achieve this he made his way up towards the Terris Dominance. Originally he did not bother much with a disguise for himself. This changed however following the Inquisitors attack of the Synod which succeeded in killing of all leadership and every keeper there, this caused chaos among the Terris. Hoid decided to try and help them, in the process getting distracted and more involved than he probably should have been. In order to assist this goal Hoid abandoned his real identity and took up the alias of an elderly terris man that was helping lead them to safety. Under his direction the refugees began to march southwards towards Luthadel where it was hoped they could get refuge and find Tindwyl who Hoid reckoned was now rightful ruler of the Terris. The group avoided the canals and stuck to the country, making use of Suringshath in order to sort supplies. Along the way they crossed paths with Vin and her party seeking out the Well, Elend Venture found Hoid and began discussing with him what happened with the Terris, during their conversations Hoid broached the topic of King Venture with him but Elend informed him that the King would be of no use to them and that Luthadel had just recently been attacked itself. Hoid managed to confirm however that Tindwyl still lived and as such decided to stick to their course. Tindwyl ultimately died during the battle of Luthadel and so never took charge.^{[citation needed]} Following the battle Hoid eventually managed to make his way back to the Well after Vin herself had arrived there, by then however Ruin had been released and the perpendicularity there gone leaving no way for him to exit the planet.

Having no way to escape the system Hoid was stuck there, unable to leave. He once again took up the identity of an informant, this time that of a beggar than a well off one, and moved to Fadrex City. He became well known enough that Cett knew him, two years later he recommended his services to Vin and he had not changed routine since. Hoid hummed to himself to make it clear he was the informant that Vin was to speak to, however she hesitated. While waiting Kelsier arrived in the cognitive realm and noticed Hoid, fearing him after their last confrontation Hoid began yelling a warning out to Vin to dissuade her from speaking to him. Although she could not hear what he was saying Vin could get the general sentiment and for reasons she did not understand felt a growing sense of unease around Hoid, as a result she decided to not speak to him. Kelsier was surprised by this and learned that he could influence others from the cognitive realm. It is unknown if Hoid noticed this, however he had no useful information to offer Vin anyway. This time period would serve to be Hoid when he felt the most trapped and dejected.^{[citation needed]} Eventually following the ascenion of Harmony a new perpendicularity formed on the system and Hoid could leave the system again, this time with the Lerasium.

by Howard Lyon

The First Glimpse of the God King in his royal court, Hoid is on the far right.

The Pahn Kahl Rebellion

Following the events on Scadrial Hoid took to travelling to Nalthis where he took up the role of a master storyteller, this time using his name of 'Hoid.' As part of this disguise he managed to infiltrate the Court of Gods when Lightsong hired him to answer his and Siri's questions about Nalthian history. Siri questioned him about the God Kings and so Hoid decided to explain the history of Hallandren starting with the story of Vo before leading into the Manywar and the founding of Returned rule afterwards. After answering more questions from the pair about the history of the God Kings till then Siri dismissed Hoid thanking him for the effort. Hoid then managed to gather enough Breaths whilst on the world in order to achieve perfect pitch, and met Vivenna and Vasher at different points under his alias of Dust.^{[citation needed]} He eventually managed to leave the system and escape past the Nalthain customs so that he could smuggle his breath off world.^{[citation needed]}

The True Desolation

Return to the System

“I've come to your land to chase an old acquaintance, but I end up spending most of my time hiding from him instead.”

—Hoid to Kaladin.

As the time came closer to the True Desolation Hoid returned to the Rosharan system with the intention from his newly gained knowledge to try and become a knight radiant. He seemingly arrived and left the system multiple times prior to the beginning of the War of Reckoning, on one such trip he met Cord's grandmother at Cultivations perpendicularity and warned her about the Gods Who Sleep Not during this trip was well he met Rock as a child and asked him for the current year on the Rosharan calendar, after getting the needed information he continued to insult Rock which he took in good humour.

While travelling the world he eventually made contact with a member of the Ghostbloods and held numerous meetings with them. During this meeting Hoid decided to use allomancy in order to Soothe Lin Davar despite his usual dislike for such methods. During the meeting Hoid noticed Shallan as being a Lightweaver and radiant and so sought her out, upon meeting her he tested her powers by aiding her in creating a large and complex illusion. After this Hoid then shared some advice to Shallan about her life and encouraged her to continue on her current path, this conversation stuck with Shallan for a long time following their meeting.

“Best Wit we've had in ages!”

—Adolin discussing his fondness of Wit.

After this Hoid moved on and explored the world further, at one stage he crossed paths with Lift and as a prank faked his death by jumping into a Greatshell. Following this he then took up Sigzil as an apprentice Worldsinger, during their travels he attempted to instruct Sigzil in the art of storytelling as well as general advice to behave more like Hoid.^{[citation needed]} During their time together Hoid remained on the planet entirely and never left the system, unforunately the two would eventually part when Sigzil was arrested and Hoid abandoned him.^{[citation needed]} During these travels Hoid became aware of the oncoming Desolation and as such seeked out to prepare for it, during this period the Kholin family took his interest and he concluded that they would be essential to the upcoming events, as such he moved to get closer to them. He ultimately achieved this by succeeding being named the Kings Wit for Elhokar, possibly helped by his previous experience at the job during the previous desolations.

Rock also describes an encounter with him in the Horneater Oceans.

Not used to Rosharan ecology.

Uses Harmony for Allomancy.

Sees Odium as evil.

“For I have never been dedicated to a more important purpose, and the very pillars of the sky will shake with the results of our war here.”

—Hoid in his letter to Frost.

War of Reckoning

Has been Elhokar's Wit for only a few months prior to the Greatshell hunt.

During his time as Wit under Elhokar's regin multiple people attempted to assisinate him, many in fact manage to deal what should have been a killing blow. As part of his appointment he received a sword as a badge of honor despite possessing no swordsmanship skills whatsoever. Developed a habit to disappear for long enough that the others simply had begun to assume he would always return after going missing.

Hoid told Kaladin things he needs to know. Can't see far into the future.???

Thought Sigzil dead, only learned recently when talking to Kaladin. Thought Sigzil did not want to be rescued again.

Did not awaken while playing with Kaladin.

17th never caught him, kept checking wrong countries.

Lift met Hoid in between her meeting the Nightwatcher and her firs interlude.

Sidesword is for show. Sword uninvested but personal value to him.

by ShiroXIX

Insulting the lighteyes

In a departure from his previous appearances, Hoid plays a more conspicuous role in the events on Roshar, since his goal is to become a Radiant. Most often seen under the guise of Wit, Elhokar Kholin's court jester, he influences Dalinar, going so far as to ask Dalinar if he has ever heard the term "Adonalsium". He also tells Kaladin the story of Derethil and the Wandersail. During the course of the story, Hoid uses a special, ancient flute called a Trailman's flute. It is also likely that he uses Lightweaving to cause the smoke from the fire to take the form of various elements from his story. Ishikk was hired by three men from the Seventeenth Shard to search for Hoid in the Purelake. Hoid was in Kholinar when Taln arrived to herald the coming of the Desolation.

Presumed Dalinar was in secret societies, tried to test this theory.

The Everstorm

Hoid told Kaladin things he needs to know. Can't see far into the future.???

Following the arrival of Taln Hoid followed along with the driver transporting him to Elhokar, he then insulted the man before running off to the Unclaimed Hills.^{[citation needed]} He was by this stage aware that the honorblade had been switched by somebody for a shardblade.

by Marie Seeberger

Shallan hugging Wit

Hoid is also seen acting as the carriage driver for Adolin when he is visiting Shallan at Sebarial's warcamp. He speaks to Kaladin about his flute and mentions that he wants an interesting story from him. When Shallan recognizes him she happily hugs him for his advice from three and a half years prior when he encouraged her at her worst and told her to keep seeking the light.

Hoid, acting as Wit, visits Kaladin while he is in prison. He tells Kaladin the story of a man named Fleet who raced a highstorm across one end of Roshar to the other. Fleet wins, but dies of exhaustion at the end, and his spirit goes on to race the wind forever.

Later, at the dawn of the everstorm, he met with Jasnah Kholin in the Unclaimed Hills as she exits the Cognitive Realm, offering to travel with her. He left Jasnah midway through the trip in order to make way to lend aid to Kholinar. During their conversation he handed her detailed sketches of each Herald for her to consult.

Aware of the Sleepless, knows the cremling in epilogue is one. Insults them with intelligence audience line.

Fall of Kholinar

by taratjah

Hoid, in his Wit persona

Following his conversation with Jasnah Hoid changed course and headed straight to Kholinar before the city began to be beseiged. He spent the majority of his time there trying to decypher what his purpose in the city was meant to be and assissting its defence in whatever way he could, as part of this he granted Vienna aluminium sheets and explained that the enemy forces could not observe anything she or her allies did once it surrounded them.^{[citation needed]}

Fused looking for cryptic.

Elhokar's cryptic.

He then went on and got a place to stay at a local Inn.

“It's either go with me now or wait it out and get captured. I honestly don't even know if you've the mind to listen. But if you do, know this: I will give you truths. And I know some juicy ones.”

—Hoid to his Cryptic, Design

Hoid appears as Wit in the middle of the novel, discussing the nature of power with Shallan. Prior to that, while telling the story of Mishim in Alethkar, Hoid sees something next to his pack, which startles him. After the story, Shallan looks into Hoid's pack and sees a small, sealed black jar. The side of the jar pointing at Shallan was white. This might be a jar of sand from Taldain's Dayside, with the sand turning white showing Hoid a Surgebinder is near. This may be important, but not much is known about it. During Hoid's conversation with Shallan, he says that he knew of a group like the Cult of Moments, describing them as equally foolish and dangerous. It is unclear at the moment which group he may be referring to.

He later helps her get into the Cult of Moments, finding Shallan at her darkest moment, when she discovers the food she has been giving to the poor is just making things worse.

Shalash, upon seeing sketches of Talenel and herself, wonders aloud why Midius (a name taken by Hoid in an as-yet-unpublished text) is giving away drawings of them.

In the epilogue, Hoid is shown in Kholinar insulting a Thaylen man in an attempt to elicit a reaction. Upon realizing that the man can't understand Alethi, Hoid decides repeating it all in Thaylen would be boring, so he cuts in front of the man. The man hits Hoid, knocking loose a tooth which Hoid discards upon leaving the area. Hoid uses Awakening to lure a child away from the corpse of her mother, leaving the child in the care of a family in the city. He then heads to the palace where he finds a Cryptic, presumably the spren Elhokar was about to bond before he died.

Radiant

Stuck on Roshar.

During an unknown point before the expedition in Emul and Singer occupation of Urithiru, he and Jasnah began a romantic relationship.

War for Emul

Design. Odium can be noticed on Wit's breath. Stuck on Roshar.

He and Jasnah both went to the expedition in Emul. During their expedition, Ruthar angered them both greatly, and Jasnah sent him to insult the highprince. After doing so, Ruthar challenged him to combat, but he choose Jasnah as his champion. She easily stabbed him through the throat, but had Renarin heal him.

When Kaladin was stuck in a vison by Odium, he appeared to him in order to tell him the story of the Dog and the Dragon, in order to try and cheer him up and point him in the right direction.

He and Jasnah worked together in order to write up a contract for the contest of champions with Odium.

After Taravangian took up Odium, Hoid was visited by the new Shard while he was telling stories. Taravangian's demeanor revealed what happened to Hoid, who began to leave, before Odium found that he stored his short term memories in his Breaths. He destroyed these, erasing part of his memory, in order to redo the interaction.

The destruction of his Breaths led him to falling below the Second Heightening, and losing his Perfect Pitch.

To be Organised

Has buolt up aggression, surprised he could hurt Kelsier as he usually can't hurt anyone.

Legitimately tricked.

Long time since he got a hug. A reason for Kaladin to have been given the flute. Was hiding from Odium.

Happiest when getting away with something. Nervous due to Odium in Stormlight.

• Lightweaver before the Shattering, OG lightweaver.
• Has a long quest to try and get some form of lightweaving permanently.
• Yolish lightweaving not fully functional.
• Lightweaving probably favourite type of investiture.

Has gone by Topaz.

Odium was confident he could outsmart Hoid. Shallan hugging him.

He has been to Aimia at some point.

by Jenny Slife

With Frost

In the epigraphs in Part 2 of The Way of Kings, there is the text of a letter written by Hoid to Frost. It offers valuable insights into his personality and goals. The author of the Letter is being hunted by the Seventeenth Shard and has set a false trail for them to follow, which lines up well with the interlude in which three men are searching for Hoid. The author comes across as not at all worried about them, and in fact seems mildly amused. Brandon has also said that we "may have read that Hoid has specific beef with Rayse," with the Letter being the only real example of this.

The Letters in Oathbringer's epigraphs are all from Shards and all of them are directed to Hoid, as is the letter from the epigraphs of Part 2 of Rhythm of War.

Letter written after taking Lersasium.

The Set

Need name change

“Oh, my lord, I know it, I do. I own the place, technically. Now, regarding those coins for old Hoid, my good lord... ”

—Hoid to Wax

Kind of right about him owning Seran.

AoL after Stormlight.

Has physically interacted with Harmony.

Hoid and Sazed have held a full conversation. Aware of the Set, mutual loathing.

Man at wedding in AoL.

Happiest when getting away with something. Nervous due to Odium in Stormlight.

Up to something in Bands. Wants information about Kelsier to get out, dislikes him greatly.

Sazed aware of Hoid. Wayne likes Hoid. Went to friends marriage. Aware of Harmony's manipulations with Wax.

Drinking perfume for a reason in Wax and Wayne. Owns the mansion itself.

Went for wedding but then got distracted, his involvement on planets is based on how invested he is there. Eavesdropping in the carriage.

At some point following his actions on Roshar, Hoid returned to Scadrial to attend the wedding of Lord Joshin Yomen and Lady Mi'chelle Ostlin, two friends of his that he had made at some unknown point in the past. Rather than coming to Scadrial in response to some important event, Hoid initially came merely to congratulate his friends. He came dressed all in black, appearing as a scruffy looking beggar and spoke to the couple soon after they arrived at the dinner. It is unknown if he was present for the subsequent Vanisher attack. Hoid may have left the planet briefly afterwards, but something on Scadrial had caught his attention and he was back several months later. Hoid became employed as Waxillium Ladrian's new carriage driver. By that point he had become friendly with Wayne, who liked him but did not know anything about Hoid's true identity. When Wax headed to the precinct station to question Rian, Hoid drove the carriage and Wayne rode up front with him. During the carriage ride, Hoid eavesdropped on Wax's conversation with Harmony about Bleeder's plans to disrupt the Elendel Basin.

Hoid's actions after this point are unclear. Hoid somehow obtained a coin-like unsealed metalmind containing a memory of Kelsier aiding the southern Scadrians in surviving the aftereffects of the Catacendre. He also spent some time in New Seran and following Nazh's theft of Nicki Savage's map of New Seran, Hoid asked her if she wanted to hear a story, an offer that she declined. He has also somehow come to the conclusion that he is the true owner of Kelesina Shores' mansion there, for somewhat legitimate but unknown reasons. He was apparently a regular intruder on the mansion grounds, to the irritation of the guards. During this time, Hoid took the appearance of a beggar with long, unkempt fingernails and a ragged shirt. Hoid appeared blind with milky white eyes.

When Waxillium Ladrian walked up the path to Kelesina's mansion to attend a party with Steris Harms, Hoid climbed out of the bushes, startling Wax. Wanting to reveal Kelsier's resurrection and identity as the Sovereign, Hoid looked for an opportunity to pass on the unsealed metalmind. He asked Wax for a few clips. Steris noticed Hoid's cologne and asked him if he was wearing cologne. Hoid was startled by her observation and claimed that he had been drinking perfume, as it had quite a kick. Steris told him that that was unhealthy and Wax advised Hoid that he should leave the private grounds. Hoid agreed but claimed that it was his property and again asked for coins. Wax gave him a banknote and told him again to leave the grounds. Hoid claimed it was far too much and that he wished to give Waxillium change. As Wax walked away, Hoid threw the coin at Wax's head, who caught it in midair. A groundsman then noticed Hoid and tried to chase him off. Hoid laughed and escaped back into the bushes again.

Hoid loathes the Set, and the members who know of him loath him in return.

“Carriage for you, sir? ”

—Hoid to Wax in the middle of the ocean

Hoid later became involved in the sting operation that Marasi ran in Bilming. He had a silent interaction with Moonlight from different trucks. Moonlight commented that she couldn't tell whether she was watching Hoid or if Hoid was watching her, but then resolved that they were both just keeping an eye on the same third parties. After Wax arrived in Bilming, and gave chase to Dumad he casually appeared in a sleek black car to give Wax a ride. He also showed up to rescue Wax from the ocean in a small boat after the explosion of the Pewternaut A16.

Bet with the Sorceress on Lumar

Arrival to Lumar

Hoid would later go on to visit the planet of Lumar, a relative backwater in the cosmere. At some point he informed his friend, the kandra Ulaam, of his intentions to visit the planet via letter. Still hoping to gain access to AonDor, he met with Riina, who was living on the planet in the guise the Sorceress of the Midnight Sea. While visiting her island, Hoid agreed to a bet with her. Riina would be allowed to place him under a curse, and in exchange, if he could successfully break it, he would be granted admission to the Elantrians and the ability to use AonDor. The curse placed on him stripped him of his sense of humor, sense of style, sense of decorum, sense of purpose, and sense of self. In order to break the curse, he would need to return to the central room of the Sorceress' ship on her island. As a part of the curse, he was also forbidden from telling anyone any information about his curse, how he had been given it, or how it could be broken. Riina finished her casting by sending Hoid far away from the Midnight Sea. During his time here, he likely came into possession of some Midnight spores.

Hoid the Cabin boy

“I once ate an entire watermelon in one sitting. And it gave me diarrhea.”

—Hoid to Tress while under the effects of Riina's curse

While under the effects of this curse, Hoid's behavior bore little resemblance to his normal personality. He dressed quite oddly, trying at times to wear every shade of orange he could find, or his red-sequined briefs. He spent time doing things like inventing the card game Kings, in which you hold your cards backwards and can see everyone's hand but your own, an invention that lost him many of his possessions. Bad jokes and nonsensical ideas filled basically all his time, and he was only very rarely able to think clearly enough to communicate anything meaningful or work to accomplish his goals. He was left with some dim awareness of his situation though, a cruel decision on the part of Riina who wanted him aware enough to be horrified by his situation. Any attempt to share information about his curse would only start him stuttering and send him back to his normal befuddled state.

Hoid spent a long time at sea, wandering without apparent progress at breaking his curse. Ulaam eventually arrived on the planet and found Hoid, but was uninterested in working too hard to free him from his curse, preferring to simply stick close and wait for the problem to resolve itself. The two of them spent at least a year traveling together in this way. Eventually Hoid would become the cabin boy of the Whistlebow. He came into contact with Charlie, son of the duke of Diggen's Point and returned there to give Tress a ceramic cup and Charlie's first letter to her. Later, he was traded for by Fort for a large sum on the orders of Captain Crow who was interested in Hoid once she had heard that he had been cursed by the Sorceress. Hoid settled onto a routine onto the Crow's Song, working as a cabin boy there as well, and kept fed despite his near-uselessness by Fort. Ulaam continued as his companion, and the two were suffered by the crew despite their oddities, due in part to Ulaam's skill with medicine. During his time on the Crow's Song, Hoid gave midnight spores to Weev, the ship's sprouter, believing them to be licorice.

Another of his shipmates, Tress, became interested in Hoid's past after Ulaam explained to her that Hoid had been cursed, and approached him on the deck of the ship to try to obtain information about the Sorcess despite his curse. Hoid was unable to say much of note, but he dimly realized she was trying to help him and was able to offer some cryptic clues, asking Tress to bring him to her planet so he could save her, meaning the map of Lumar present on the Sorceress's ship. He also told her to look for a grouping of six stars, a carving under her bed, which would lead her to Weev's secret supply of midnight aether. After Tress recovered the midnight aether, Ulaam confronted Hoid, asking if he had given the aether to her. Ulaam and Tress continued to press Hoid for information and he was able to tell them to look for a person that is not a person and could talk when they should not, which they realized referred to Charlie in his guise of Huck the rat.

As the Crow's Song continued its journey into the Crimson Sea, Hoid continued to stymie Tress's attempts to wheedle more information out of him, unable to point at words on a sheet of paper that might be relevant to his curse. However, Tress realized that he she could glean information from his silences though, as he stopped speaking when the subject turned to the matter of his curse. This allowed him to indicate to her where Riina's island might be found on a map. As they traveled closer to the Midnight Sea, Huck convinced the addled Hoid to dump much of the ship's food and water overboard, in an unsuccessful attempt to force the crew to return the to Emerald Sea.

Assault on the Sorceress' Island

by Howard Lyon

Hoid's duel with the Sorceress.

Later when the Crow's Song reached the Sorceress's island, the ship's crew carried Hoid into the Sorceress's ship to save Tress and Huck, who had realized that bringing Hoid to the center of the Sorceress's power would break the curse, and hopefully allow him to defeat her. When Hoid entered the tower, the terms of the bet were fulfilled and he was restored to his sense and transformed into an Elantrian. Hoid arrived just in time to use AonDor to throw up a shield and prevent Riina from cursing Tress. In the brief confrontation that followed, Riina judged that she was not confident enough that she could defeat Hoid to risk a direct confrontation with him, instead choosing to flee the planet and let Hoid, Tress, and Charlie go free. While Hoid was unable to directly remove the curse on Charlie, he was able to tweak the parameters so that Charlie could break the curse himself once he returned to Diggen's Point with Tress. Hoid may have lingered with them for some time giving Charlie some pointers on storytelling and music.

Hoid would later share his adventure with Tress and Charlie as a story to an unknown audience, potentially made up of people from the planet First of the Sun.

Relationships

Neutral Good according to himself, 17th Shard chaotic neutral and others chaotic evil. Rarely get hugs, more commonly slapped or hit. Other people think he is helping them, is helping himself. Motives are varied, some think they are good others evil. Most people in Silverlight know about Hoid.

Aware of the Sleepless, knows the cremling in epilogue is one. Insults them with intelligence audience line. Some people pay Hoid to do things for them. Not well liked.

Has faced attempted assassinations. Legitimately tricked.

Wayne likes Hoid. Went to friends marriage. Long time since he got a hug.

Would tell Hoid what she knows. Has a relationship with multiple Sho Del. A reason for Kaladin to have been given the flute. Would not pickup Nightblood, fearful of even holding it. Has a chance of destroying Hoid. There where people he thought he was going to help but failed.

Would try and kill Amaram and Rashekk. Has had several love interests. Shallan hugging him.

“I mean it's Wit. You're not supposed to like him.”

—Adolin talking about Hoid's favourite personna.

Due to his extreme age and status as a worldhopper Hoid has managed to meet many people from all different backgrounds throughout the Cosmere. Due to his habit in meddling among important affairs many of these individuals are of great importance to wider events on either their home world or the Cosmere as a whole. Despite this however Hoid does not possess many friends, rather he simply has people whom he manages to annoy slightly less than others. Despite this however Hoid does have many individuals that he counts as his friends, for example he was invited to a wedding and had a best friend named ... for a while. Part of the reason for Hoid's isolation may be due to his personality, he is notable for not having much of a filter and tells people exactly what he thinks they need to hear, including insults at their expense. He has throughout his life made a long list of enemies.

• Knows dragons, is not one.
• Some of the sixteen likes Hoid.

Man at wedding in AoL.

Has had romantic interests in the past.

Was not romantically involved with Senna.

Hoid has had a romantic interest in the past. In fact, there were several.

Hoid loathes the Set, and the members who know of him loath him in return.

He and Vasher are not friends. Has offended many people.

The Shards

As one of the original seventeen individuals who were present for the Shattering Hoid is aware and acquainted to each of the Shard's original vessels. He was acquainted with Tanavast before the Shattering and Koravellium. While he never got along with the latter he still respects her for her opposition to Odium. If he is to meet the Nightwatcher he would be prone to insulting her. Hoid was also acquainted with Ati and considered him one of the best people he ever met.^{[citation needed]} Whilst Hoid and Edgli mutually dislike each other they have more polite conversations than he does with Bavadin and Raye. Valor still likes Hoid but figures that it has been too long since their last conversation.^{[citation needed]} At least one Shard still considers him a good friend.^{[citation needed]}

Would call the Nightwatcher names. Things in his past made him interested in Endowment.

Predates the other Vessels by a bit. rosetta stone Rose Scepter. Hoid got the information he wanted from it. Specific to understanding the magic of Sel.

• Has spoken to the Nightwatcher.

Rayse

“If Rayse, learned that Wit was in the city, he'd order his forces to level it - and would consider that a cheap price for the slimmest chance of ending him.”

—Hoid discussing Rayse's relationship with him.

Once Hoid was friends with Rayse but still was comfortable describing him as one of the most spiteful and hateful people that he had ever met throughout his long life.^{[citation needed]} Since Rayse has become the holder of Odium Hoid slowly grew more concerned, he now is terrified of the Shard and considers it one of the greatest threats to the Cosmere as a whole.^{[citation needed]} He considers the fact that Rayse is the holder as the bigger threat rather than the Shard itself^{[citation needed]}, partly as he considers Odium under his control to be pure evil. Hoid fears Rayse's ability to harm him and takes precautions to avoid his detection, his primary goal is to limit his influence on the wider Cosmere even if he must sacrifice Roshar in the process.^{[citation needed]} Despite this however he is not above taunint Rayse for his failures.

Odium and Hoid where once friends. Has a similar grudge against Rayse and Bavadin. Happiest when getting away with something. Nervous due to Odium in Stormlight. Was hiding from Odium. Odium was confident he could outsmart Hoid. Sees Odium as evil.

Sazed

“Regardless, please make yourself known to me when you travel my lands. It is distressing that you think you need to move in the shadows.”

—Sazed talking to Hoid.

Sazed has a benevolent feeling towards Hoid. However, the latter has nevertheless hidden from the Shard whenever he visits Scadrial, a decision of which Sazed disapproves, but by which he is also fascinated. He wishes to work with Hoid to keep Odium contained, as he is highly disturbed by the wound upon the Spiritual Realm where Ambition was Splintered. They disagree on whether it is the Vessel or the power that is more dangerous, with Sazed believing that the Investiture will make any Vessel of Odium the same as their predecessor, but they agree that it would be the combination of a Vessel's craftiness and the power's Intent that would be most fearsome--coincidentally, a very good description of Taravangian.

Sazed aware of Hoid. Has physically interacted with Harmony. Aware of Harmony's manipulations with Wax. Hoid and Sazed have held a full conversation.

Bavadin

Hoid has a long-standing grudge against Bavadin for unknown reasons. Her dislike of Hoid is strong enough that she felt the need to begin intilling a great dislike of him in her avatars, such as the one on Obrodai.

however, he and Bavadin herself had a relationship at some point.

Aware of the Set, mutual loathing.

Has a similar grudge against Rayse and Bavadin.

World Hoppers

As well travelled and Cosmere aware as he is Hoid has developed a relationship with many prominent world hoppers throughout his travels. One such individual is Khriss whom he thinks well of, she thinks likewise and would be willing to share any information she knows with him, so long as she thinks his cause is morally good of course. This is quite useful considering she knows far more about the Cosmere than Hoid does since she studies for scholarship rather than pretending to sound smart from time to time. As well as Kriss Hoid has crossed paths with Nazh in the past, Nazh personally feels fine with Hoid but would prefer that he was more direct in regards to his communication.

Hoid thinks well of Khriss.

He also had the opprotunity to talk with Vasher during the latter's travels, their relationship is more adversial with both strongly disliking the other. During their interactions Vasher picked up on the fact that something unusual is happening with Hoid. As a counterpart to Vasher however Nightblood would attempt to be quite friendly to Hoid, Hoid on the otherhand would not respond likewise as he fears Nightblood with his life, like most rational people in the Cosmere.

Met and knows Vasher.

Frost

“You've always been able to bring out the most extreme in me, old friend. And I do still name you a friend, for all that you weary me.”

—Frost writing to Hoid.

Frost forms one of Hoid's oldest friends, the pair had met before the meeting of the original vessels at the Shattering by a number of years. Although Frost is Hoids elder by a couple of decades the large difference in each of their lives makes the effect on their relationship negligible. Unfortunately the pair drifted over time following the Shattering, utilising a Cosmere wide postal delivery service in order to keep touch from time to time, these correspondences mostly serve confirm they are opposed to each others goals and thoughts on the Cosmere. Frost is a leader of the Seventeenth Shard a group which considers Hoid's actions to be dangerous to the Cosmere at large, This is because the organisations holds that any interference with the wider Cosmere shall leads to devestation and as such the best policy is simply to watch events as they play out, Hoid's meddling directly contradicts this goal however.^{[citation needed]} Due to this Frost ordered some of his best members to visit Roshar and retrive Hoid from the system, this ulitimaely failed however. Hoid is largely unimpressed with his organisation

17th Shard does not think Hoid should be doing what he is doing. Hoid is not a member of the seventeenth Shard. Amused by the 17th Shard. 17th never caught him, kept checking wrong countries.

Kelsier

by LittleGreyDragon

Kelsier and Hoid's meeting at the Well of Ascension

Kelsier and Hoid mutually detest one another. Hoid considers him extremely dangerous, though he doesn't think much of his organization. However, this doesn't stop him from taking action against the Cognitive Shadow, such as when he gives Wax a coppermind containing knowledge that Kelsier would have preferred to have stayed hidden. Hoid however has a very different opinion of the Ghostbloods than he does of their leader, viewing them as generally not a threat.

Hoid and Kelsier do not get along. Relationship to ghostbloods. Hoid versus Kelseir. Hoid and Kel. Wants information about Kelsier to get out, dislikes him greatly. Kelsier disrupted inter planetary trade. Has built up aggression, surprised he could hurt Kelsier as he usually can't hurt anyone. Hoid is unimpressed with the Ghostbloods.

Wan ShaiLu

Wanted the sceptor for more than just putting Shai in prison. Sceptor was important to Hoid. Influence Rose Sceptor related to the proximity problem on Sel. Sceptor works as rosetta stone.???

It is unclear how he feels about Wan ShaiLu, despite him betraying her without hesitation in order to get his hands on the Moon Scepter.

Wan ShaiLu, on the other hand, despises him for his betrayal. After escaping from the Rose Empire, she began to hunt after him to enact her revenge, an act that she eventually succeeded at. Their current relationship is unclear, but she does wonder to herself if she was keeping watch over him, or he over her, but she knows that they are in reality just keeping watch over the same third parties.

Roshar

In his position as King's, and later, Queen's Wit, Hoid has had opportunities to interact with many notable Rosharans, and has taken full advantage of such chances.

Kaladin

Hoid feels paternally to Kaladin. In such situations as when Kaladin is terrified at the discovery of his Radiant powers, languishing in prison, or trapped in a vision concocted by Odium and Moash in order to try and break him, Hoid is always there with a story to bring him back from the brink, and at one point gave Kaladin his Trailman's flute. Kaladin lost it however and Hoid is disappointed and angry at him for doing so.

Mad about Kaladin losing his flute.

Shallan

Hoid feels similarly to Shallan as he does to Kaladin. Visiting her in times of need, such as when her father is growing more and more abusive or when she's sitting in a dark building in Kholinar, racked with guilt about Grund's death, he guides her to a path of self-forgiveness.^{[citation needed]} While he could destroy her in an insult match if he so desired Hoid instead plays along at a similar skill level as Shallan.

• Could rip Shallan to shreds.
• Was guiding Shallan's power.

Sigzil

Hoid's relationship with Sigzil seems similar to that of Jasnah and Shallan. When in Azir, Hoid found Sigzil to be in some sort of trouble, and, after rescuing him, took the young Azish man under his wing and began teaching him as a Worldsinger between his visits to the system. The two traveled Roshar together, at one point ending up in Babatharnam, where Hoid had to pay for Sigzil to be freed three separate times, though Sigzil suspected that they mainly arrested him because Hoid had a lot of money. Hoid graduated him as a full Worldsinger in Tanat 1173.

Sigzil is Hoid's apprentice, spent time with him during Hoid's visits.

The Kholins

“Most days, Elhokar has trouble saving face, let alone cities.”

—Hoid about Elhokar

Hoid had presumed Dalinar was in a secret society and attempted to test out this theory during a party. He was mistaken in this regard.

Dalinar more prone to understand Hoid. Hoid suggested the plan for the Thrill. Thinks highly of the Khlons, usually watches those he thinks shall be important. Interested in someone in particular.

Thinks highly of the Khlons, usually watches those he thinks shall be important. Interested in someone in particular.

Been gone long enough that they know he will return.

by Jessica Liu

With Jasnah

Hoid is romantically involved with Jasnah. He also has immense respect for her, both due to her sheer intelligence and the fact that, when all else fails, she is, above all, paranoid. Jasnah notes that he seems to think such things as kissing her safehand would spark passion in her, though it is her view that mental stimulation is far superior.

Design

Hoid has a fondly exasperated view towards Design. Though, as a pair who share a Nahel bond, they are extremely close, he is consistently frustrated by her habit of spoiling stories that he's telling, as he sees it.

Design.

Hoid and Design not the best.

Lumar

Tress

He holds enough respect for Tress and her adventure that he sees her as very mature and talented for her age, and he remembered her adventure and told it and told the tale years to decades after they parted. Though he still felt that she didn't have the right to give him commands, but ultimately obliged due to her being his captain. He has kept tabs on her and the rest of the crew of the Crow's Song for several years after his curse was broken.

Tress knew Hoid as a cabin boy on Diggen's Point, and a member of the Crow's Song. Though, for much of their relationship, she held little respect for him due to the effects of the curse Riina put on him. She eventually came to see him as a means to an end for finding Charlie. Her opinion on him greatly changed after he saved her from Riina after his curse was broken, though she still viewed him as a member of her crew and thus under her command.

Culture

As one of the longest living beings to reside in the Cosmere, rivalling that of dragons, Hoid has become the centre of numerous mythologies, folktales and important events throughout history. His influence can be noticed on many worlds if one knows what to look for, due to his activities many organisations throughout the Cosmere became aware of the existence of Hoid, an example of one such group is the Diem who took it upon themselves to begin investigating him and his true nature. Other organisations which are more aware of his goals and personality actively trained some of their membership on how to spot him in order to prevent him from interfering with their plans.^{[citation needed]}(fused and set. (maybe???)) Other organisations have the average member be aware of him as an individual and his associated 'Lore' but be unable to recognise him if they happened to cross paths, an example of organisations such as this is that of the Ghostbloods^{[citation needed]} and citizens of Silverlight. His influence on local culture also is relevant as in some worlds he is considered to be involved in numerous unsolved crimes.

His cultural impact in terms of folktales and religion can also not be overstated, numerous folktales throughout the Cosmere are focused upon Hoid, with some even depicting his darker side on the rare occasion it comes to the surface. The Horneater culture in particular has a great deal of myths and legends that either reference, or are directly about, Hoid and his travels. His reputation is such that he is worshipped as a deity under the title of Lunu'anaki, the god of travel and mischief who cannot hurt man. Hoid personally counts that he became involved in at least seven other pantheons, each time considering it a disaster, during one such incident one god began to worship Hoid himself by accident.

In addition to all of this Hoid was also a founding member of numerous organisations throughout the Cosmere, one example of such an organisation being the Worldsingers. This organisation had a similar origin to that of the Worldbringers leading some to also guess that Hoid had a role to play in forming them as well, especially as the names are similar sounding and this is not a coincidence.

Quotes

For a list of quotes, see /Quotes.

“I began life as a thought, a concept, words on a page. That was another thing I stole. Myself. Another time I was named for a rock.”

—Hoid in reference to himself

“I learned it many, many years ago from a man who didn't know who he was. It was a distant place where two lands meet and gods have died.”

—Hoid describing where he learnt his storytelling

“I like him.”

—Elhokar discussing his fondness of Wit.

“This isn't playing fair. Not fair at all.”

—Hoid ???

Appearances

As influential and prone to meddling in affairs as Hoid is he has made an appearance in almost every work set in the Cosmere. He has thus far appeared or been referenced in every Cosmere novel and almost every novella and short story. His appearances can be harder to spot in some entries than others as he does not always go by the name Hoid, nor is even named in many cases.

To date he has appeared or been referenced in every Cosmere work with the exception of Sixth of the Dusk and Shadows for Silence in the Forests of Hell.

• List some appearences.

• Kelsiers Informant in MFE (Named.)
• Was Terrisman in WoA
• Was beggar in HoA
• Was storyteller in Nalthis (Named.)
• Wit in Stormlight (Named.)
• Fool in ES (Named???)
• In MSH
• In AOL at wedding
• In SoS as cabbie (Named.)
• In BoM as homelessman
• In TLM as cabbie. (Named.)
• Era 2 Broadsheets.
• In Elantris as arms dealer and man at the end. (Named.)
• Mentioned in Whitesand???

Development

The development of Hoid as a character was a long process, the idea of him predates many later concepts that Brandon Sanderson had, including that of the Cosmere itself. In terms of characters only Dalinar predates him as an idea, both emerging around when Sanderson was around 15 years old. Although he did not start as such Hoid was a DnD character that Brandon played in high school at one stage. He appeared in an one of the first stories Sanderson wrote for Dalinar as a court magician.

Sanderson has cited many concepts as being the inspiration behind Hoid, one such concept was that of Isaac Asimov's Foundation series.

was once the most powerful person in the Cosmere.

• Influences.
• Influences.
• Influence.
• Influence.
• Influence, was once the most powerful person in the Cosmere.
• Influence.
• Influences.
• Influence.
• Influence.
• Influences
• Influence
• Influence.
• Influence.
• Influence.
• Hoid origins influence.
• Influence.
• Influence.
• Infleunce
• Influence
• Influence
• Influence.
• Influence
• Influence.
• Influences
• Influenced by Robin Hobb.
• Not Brandon
• Hoid in Whitesand. Influence.

Novel. Book, did not take Shard. Reason for name Hoid. Hoid book. Influence. Hoid is annoying to write. Only thought of the relationship with Jasnah after Oathbringer. Influence. Hoid's book. Not aware he is fictional. Unaware of fourth wall. Brandon is not Hoid. Influence. Thoughts about Hoid. Dragonsteel characters no longer canon. Very different from Hoid. Influence Hoid is one of Brandon's favourite characters. Inspiration. Favourite chapter. Early Hoid??? Original novel. Proto-Hoid. (META) Topaz came from father. META. Influence

• Hoid is Brandon's favourite character, one of the first characters made up.
• Not breaking the fourth wall.
• Actually doing things in the background, part of a wider story.

Hoid would make fun of Brandon. Dust is Brandon's favourite alias. Had a little brother in the original. Hoid would like earth.

Well of Ascension Retcon

As part of the interconnectedness of the Cosmere and the nature of Hoid's story being told in glimpses of his actions in various novels aspects of his story has had to be altered or retconned as the novels were released. One notable case of this can be seen in the changing story of Hoid's visit to Scadrial during the [whatever it's called].

In the original continuity Hoid had presumed that the Well of Ascension was located in the northern mountains like Vin but was mistaken in this regard, most of his visit to Scadrial was to be devoted to this doomed quest. In a deleted scene Vin was meant to notice footprints that he had left after having just left the well. Following this failure he then became involved in events he did not attend to, most likely the Terris, before eventually overhearing Vin, Elend and Spook realise that the Well was located back in Luthadel. Following this he was to race back to the city before finally finding his way into the Well and finally gaining Lerasium there.

This continuity had to be adandoned for two reasons; firstly the Vin's trip to the Well was cut short in the final version as Sanderson found it too much of a momentum killer to the story, secondly whilst writing Secret History it was realised that with the destruction of Ruin's perpendicularity Hoid could only have used the Well of Ascension to gain access to the physical realm. Due to this his entire quest was now moot. Now instead in the new continuity Hoid instead spent the extra time visiting the Terris as was described above in the history section. This change has not altered anything else in the world however some word of Brandons about the previous continuity are now obsolete.

Trivia

• As of 2015 the Shard that Hoid rejected had not been revealed. This means that the shard could not have been Devotion, Dominion, Preservation, Ruin, Odium, Cultivation, Honor, or Endowment as all of those had been revealed by that stage.
• If he could hear it Hoid would like metal music.
• Hoid does not pay his taxes on any world.
• If Brandon Sanderson was living inside the Cosmere and knew of Hoid's mission he would not help him with his cause.
• Hoid is not a stand in for Sanderson in the universe.
• Hoid is not aware he is fictional.
• Hoid would not be able to lift Thor's hammar, however he would be capable of finding and manipulating someone who could.
• Sanderson's statements of where Hoid falls on the colour wheel of Magic the Gatehring have varied throughout the years, if a planeswalker he holds that he would be pure blue, but elsewhere states that he considers Hoid to be all five colours with a leaning towards white.

---

Novel. Book, did not take Shard. Picture book. Reason for name Hoid. Would avoid Hoid. Hoid book. Hoid is annoying to write. Only thought of the relationship with Jasnah after Oathbringer. Hoid's book. Influence. Visited the place mentioned in the traveller. Thoughts about Hoid. Dragonsteel characters no longer canon.

• He is a founder of the Worldsingers.
• The character of Hoid existed before the concept of Adonalsium was developed. He first appeared in a short story Brandon wrote long ago, going by the name Kamp. He was on a planet trying to figure out how the magical system of the area worked.
• Brandon has stated that Cephandrius is only a few decades off from his real name.
• Brandon has stated that Hoid is one of his favorite characters, alongside Dalinar, by the virtue of being one of the oldest.
• Brandon may eventually write a parallel novel to the Mistborn series that chronicles what Hoid was up to behind the scenes.
• His favorite type of spren is a Cryptic.
• He is the happiest when "getting away with something". When asked in what published book that was, Brandon responded with The Bands of Mourning.
• Prior to the events of Words of Radiance, Hoid had not been hugged in "a long time."
• He has dressed in drag before, "multiple times."
• Hoid's quest may be "To make that which once was."
• In 2018, Brandon did a reading of an uncanonical scene he had written several years prior, called "The Traveler." In it, two men, likely Hoid and Frost, have a conversation shortly after the deaths of Leras and Ati. A recording and a transcription of the reading can be found here.
• Hoid does not pay taxes.
• Hoid was at least acquainted with Tanavast before the Shattering.
• Hoid fears The Beyond.
• Hoid's favorite color is black.
• Though he once (extremely accurately) said to Shallan that he began life as words on a page, this was not in fact a break of the fourth wall.
• Hoid, under the name Topaz, was Brandon's first Dungeons & Dragons character.
• Brandon does not believe he would aid Hoid's cause if he was in the cosmere.
• Hoid likes milkshakes.
• Hoid has spoken with the Nightwatcher.
• For several books, Hoid's best friend was somebody named Bat'Chor. This may no longer be the case as of Mistborn Era 2.

Hoid was involved in the events taking place before any of the cosmere's published books begin, and is the second oldest character seen so far.

He was originally human, but has changed enough that when asked, Brandon only says "It's complicated."

Brandon has confirmed that all of these appearances are the same individual, but that he worldhops between planets.

Hoid's motives are unknown, and most of his actions occur behind the scenes. He is searching for something unknown.

Hoid is not a Shard, nor is he a Herald, but something else entirely.

He is very skilled with disguises, and the overtness of his involvement varies from book to book. In some, he is named outright and makes references to other events and places in the cosmere, while in others he is seen only deep in disguise, almost unrecognizable.

Hoid is neither the author of the Ars Arcana, nor of the back-of-book blurbs for The Stormlight Archive. He occasionally will show up somewhere, stand around for a while, realize there isn't a novel-worthy plot going on, and leave.

Arcanum References

• Doing things in the background.
• Got his nickname/pseudonym from words on a page.
• Hair white for a reason.
• Elhokar's spren.
• Hints at quest.
• Speak fears at mirror not a real thing.
• About his sermons.
• Did not make up the Girl who Looked Up.
• Doesn't use postal service.
• Odium removed breaths.
• Avoided Herald Mental Health issues.
• Involved in events of Stormlight a lot.
• Dawnshard.
• Wit is annoyed in SA5.
• Stole memories.
• Hoid has stable immortality.
• Odium more invasive and destructive.
• Old backstory is retconned
• Takes a while to travel between worlds.

Has a metal he shouldn't have. (Probably Lerasium) Has access to atium. Is an allomancer.

Limits of his prohibition against harm.

Has been beheaded.

• Very old, predates the Shattering
• Long life not tied to any particular shard.

Under the name of 'Wit,' no Hoid.

• Wit opinions as to what Shallan did at end of Oathrbinger.
• Basic information about his backstory.
• Dragonsteel trilogy, book told as him telling it.
• Uses Roshar derived flakes for Allomancy.
• Current apilogue used to be prologue.
• Turns to modern comedians and Oscar Wilde for Wit's jokes.
• Would get along with Wayne and Mat.
• Shallan and Wit mentor relationship.
• Wrote the letter.
• Bound to Roshar, managed to get off world.
• Mraize passed on Wit's message.
• Not Ado.
• Children's book.
• Wit storybook.
• Wit storybook.
• Puns are translated.
• Not a Herald.

SP 1:

• Narrated by Hoid.
• Telling story with interruption.
• Retelling story within decades.
• Trivia on why story told by Hoid.

[Still need to do 22 and this year.] [Tag, no mention need to do] [SP 2 + 3 + 4 need to do]

Notes

Footnotes

References