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|books=[[The Stormlight Archive]]
}}{!{spoilers|book=sa3}}{!{update|book=sa3}}
'''Kharbranth''', City of Bells, is an independent city-state on [[Roshar]], ruled by the King [[Taravangian]].{{book ref|sa1|3}} Colours of Kharbranthian royalty - burnt orange and white{{book ref|sa1|5}}
 
{{quote
== Geography and Ecology ==
|Kharbranth is one of the most sheltered major cities in the world, and the bells are a symbol of that. It’s said they were first erected to warn that a highstorm was blowing, since the winds were so soft that people didn’t always notice.
|The myth behind Kharbranth's nickname, the City of Bells{{book ref|sa1|3}}
}}
 
'''Kharbranth''', City of Bells, is an independent city-state on [[Roshar]], ruled by king [[Taravangian]]. It is one of the five [[Vorin]] nations and home to the [[Palanaeum]], the largest library on Roshar. Kharbranth is known for the quality of its hospitals, and people come from all over the world to study medicine from Kharbranth's surgeons. The Kharbranthian royal colors are burnt orange and white, and have become synonymous around Roshar as the colors of surgeons, medicine, and healing.{{book ref|sa1|5}}{{book ref|sa1|3}}{{book ref|sa1|7}}{{book ref|sa2|i14}}
=== Environments ===
 
=== LocationGeography ===
Kharbranth is located on the western coast of the [[Frostlands]], within a natural harbor that opens onto the [[Tarat Sea]].{{map ref|Roshar}} One of the most sheltered cities on Roshar, Kharbranth is naturally protected on both its eastern and western fronts.{{book ref|sa3|58}}{{book ref|sa1|3}} The honorspren capital, [[Unyielding Fidelity]], is situated close to Kharbranth within the [[Cognitive Realm]].{{book ref|sa1|3}}{{book ref|sa3|108}}
 
Residing within a natural wedge shaped lait that opens onto the sea, Kharbranth is built on unbroken stone and extends down the side of and into the surrounding mountain.{{book ref|Sa1|3}} It is believed by some in the [[ardentia]] that Kharbranth was built upon a cymatic pattern, however, it is currently unknown as to whether this claim is true.{{book ref|sa1|45}} While the city itself is well protected from the [[highstorm]], the mountain shielding it from the east bears the full force of the storm, leading to occasional cave-in's within the [[Conclave]] and rockslides on the stormside of the mountain.{{book ref|sa1|5}}{{book ref|sa1|3}} Kharbranth is protected from the Everstorm due to the city's slight southerly orientation.{{book ref|sa3|58}}
It is located in a natural harbor on the the [[Tarat Sea]], in the western most regions of the [[Frostlands]], in an area that was formerly under the control of [[Thalath]], one of the [[Silver Kingdoms]].{{map ref|Roshar}}
 
[[File:View_of_Kharbranth.jpg|450px|thumb|left|Kharbranth, by Grant Hansen [[Coppermind: Artists/Grant Hansen|Grant Hansen]]]]
Features
Bells can be found in large numbers throughout the city, supposedly to warn of the passing highstorm, which as story tells it, is too gentle to notice otherwise.{{book ref|sa1|3}}{{book ref|sa1|7}} The ringing of these bells can be heard even deep within the Conclave.{{book ref|sa1|7}} The regularity and presence of these bells has earned Kharbranth the nickname of the City of Bells.{{book ref|sa1|3}} Clock bells are rung on the hour, through the day.{{book ref|sa1|3}}
 
Famous for its crowds, the streets of Kharbranth are often packed during both the day and at night.{{book ref|Sa1|36}}{{book ref|Sa1|71}} The Ralinsa, the main thoroughfare made up of a series of switchbacks, connects the port and docks with the Conclave at the top of the mountain.{{book ref|sa1|3}}{{book ref|Sa1|36}} The steepness of the pathways makes it difficult to use [[chull]] pulled carts to transport goods, and instead merchants will hire workers to carry their products.{{book ref|sa1|71}} Rickshaws and palanquins are available to hire for transport throughout the city.{{book ref|sa1|3}}{{book ref|sa3|21}}
{{book ref|sa1|3}}
- May be older than the Last Desolation - at least one in world source claims it was built during the shadowdays
- BUilt on raw, unbroken stone like most of Roshar.
- A small politically fragile city state but also a free city{{book ref|sa1|3}} The city-state consists of only Kharbranth{{book ref|sa1|5}}
- Vorin Kingdom
- Docks open to all regardless of nationality or status
- Animals can be found around the docks (and presumably throughout the city): skyeels, crabs, haspers, mink
- Built up a steep incline/mountain
- Wedge shaped
- Built into a natural lait, like a wide crack in the stone. One of the most sheltered major cities in the world
- Considered by Captain Tozbek to be a 'safe city'
- "a man pulling a curious contraption with two large wheels and a canopy-covered seat. "
- Long/Scenic and short/direct route from the docks to the Conclave
- Roadways are cut up the hill in switchbacks
- The story goes that the bells were initially set up to warn of the Highstorm as it was so soft that people wouldn't notice.
- Bells are everywhere - displayed in shops, hung from rafters. Hung under every lamp in a lantern poles, on transport carts such as the one Shallan takes through the city
- Strong smells to the city. Spicy scents of food, the pungent smell of alleyways. Shallan describes the city as not having a clean smell.
- Noisy. A hundred voices called to one another, mingling with doors slamming, wheels rolling on stone, occasional skyeels crying. The ever-present bells tinkled in the background, louder when the wind blew.
 
Buildings are constructed from either [[crem]], daub, mud, or a combination of all three, blocky in nature, and either built on top of, or carved out of, the mountain.{{book ref|sa1|3}} Each structure is painted vibrant colors, with each color symbolising the function of the building.{{book ref|sa1|3}} Most buildings are either red or orange with fewer being painted blue or yellow.{{book ref|sa1|3}} Violet colored buildings signify tailors or cloth merchants, while food can be purchased in green buildings.{{book ref|sa1|3}} Homes are painted in pastel colors and use different patterns than commercial buildings.{{book ref|sa1|3}} Kharbranth is a busy city, with stores and venues operating well into the later hours of the evening.{{book ref|sa1|36}}
{{book ref|sa1|5}}
- The mountain that protects Kharbranth is hit hard by the highstorms and this can sometimes lead to cave-in's within the structures that have pierced the mountain though they are rare(such as the Conclave). Avalanches on the stormside can sometimes occur after highstorms and these can lead to the cave-in's. {{book ref|sa1|5}}
 
The Kharbranthian plumbing system, which relies on gravity to move water through pipes, has become quite popular in the Alethi warcamps.{{book ref|sa2|67}} The system is used within the Conclave and is combined with heatrials to produce running hot water.{{book ref|sa1|36}}
{{book ref|sa1|7}}
- Bells can be heard even from deep within the Conclave/mountain
 
== Landmarks ==
{{book ref|sa1|36}}
=== The Conclave ===
- The main throughfare from the docks to the Conclave is called the Ralinsa and leads down the hill with switchbacks
{/{for|Conclave}}
- The city continues to function late at night and the streets are still busy and full of noise from voices and bells
- Kharbranth has a theatre district
 
The [[Conclave]] can be located at the top of the city and is built down into the surrounding mountain.{{book ref|sa1|3}} The Conclave serves as both an official building and a residential abode, with a section of the building serving as the kings palace, and another as a residential wing for guests.{{book ref|sa1|71}}{{book ref|sa1|7}}{{book ref|sa1|3}} The Palanaeum can be located within the Conclave.{{book ref|sa1|7}} Additionally, deep within the Conclave is a secret hospital run by Taravangian and the Diagram.{{book ref|sa1|71}} Terminally ill patients, as well as the extremely poor, are taken to this hospital to be killed, in the hopes that they will deliver a [[Death Rattle]] as they die.{{book ref|sa1|71}}
{{book ref|sa1|45}}
- Kabsal compares Kharbranth to Kholinar, believing them both to be made by the Almighty.
- A cymatic of Kharbranth has not yet been found
 
=== The Palanaeum ===
Buildings
[[File:The_Halls_of_Kharbranth.png|450px|thumb|right|[[Jasnah]] in the [[Conclave]], by [[Coppermind: Artists/Yoav Kozenyuk|Yoav Kozenyuk]]]]
{/{for|Palanaeum}}
 
The [[Palanaeum]] is the largest known library on Roshar and contains over seven hundred thousand texts.{{book ref|sa1|7}} Entrance to the Palanaeum is expensive, with the funds collected being used to finance Kharbranth's hospitals.{{book ref|sa1|7}} The Palanaeum also doubles as Kharbranth's royal treasury and houses the city's store of emeralds.{{book ref|sa1|33}} The scholars of the Palanaeum are involved in the translation of the dawnchant.{{Book ref|sa3|50}} Following the Everstorm, the Palanaeum saw a large increase in requests for information on the [[Voidbringers]].{{book ref|sa3|24}}
{{book ref|sa1|3}}
- Blocky and colourful. A majority of the buildings are red and orange, with the occasional blue or yellow.
=== Kharbranthian Hospitals ===
- Buildings are grouped by colour which also indicates purpose - Violet for clothing, green for food. Homes are also painted but in pastel colours with a different pattern.
Kharbranth's medical practices are well known throughout eastern Roshar, and at least parts of western Roshar, with the city's colors and banner being synonymous with surgeons and the idea of healing.{{book ref|sa2|i14}}{{book ref|sa1|71}} This reputation is well earned, with Kharbranthian surgeons providing unprompted aid following the [[Battle of Vedenar]] ({{Rosharan date|1173}}) and both before and after the [[Battle of Thaylen Field]] ({{Rosharan date|1174}}).{{book ref|Sa2|i14}}{{book ref|sa3|121}}{{book ref|sa3|59}}
- Constructed from some sort of mud/daub/crem
- The Conclave, Palanaeum and King's Palace are located at the top of the city
- Most buildings set directly on rock, while some are carved from it
 
Kharbranth is famous for both the number and quality of its hospitals, with medical care being available for both physical and psychological illnesses.{{book ref|sa1|16}}{{book ref|sa1|52}} Funding for these hospitals is provided by the entrance fee to the Palanaeum.{{book ref|sa1|48}} Any who require assistance will be treated, regardless of eye color, social ranking, or nationality.{{book ref|sa1|48}} Taravangian is a frequent visitor to the hospitals and is warmly welcomed by patients during their stay. During his visits, he will stop and speak with each patient individually, checking in on their care and wellbeing.{{book ref|sa1|48}}
{{book ref|sa1|29}}
- Kharbranth has a large number of hospitals that are frequently visited by Taravangian <!-- verify how often Taravangian visits the hospitals with second reference-->
 
Private patient rooms, along with larger wards, can be found in some, if not all, of Kharbranth's hospitals.{{book ref|sa1|48}}{{book ref|sa1|50}} The wards are segregated by gender and resemble large hallways.{{book ref|sa1|48}} Partitions can be set up around each bed to provide privacy for each patient.{{book ref|sa1|48}} The hospital that Shallan is initially admitted to after faking suicide, is run by an ardent named [[Mungam]].{{book ref|sa1|48}}
The Conclave
 
=== The Great Concourse of Kharbranth ===
{{book ref|sa1|3}}
The [[Great Concourse of Kharbranth]] is a training school for surgeons and healers, which offers the best medical training available. Tuition to the Concourse is expensive and there are strict and rigorous entrance exams, which can be taken by those over the age of sixteen.{{book ref|sa1|16}}
- Painted white and carved from the rock face. The roof outcroppings have squat domes that are painted in metalic colours
- Inside it is a large rectangular hallway lined with Stormlight lamps. Broad, high and long, with grand chambers lining the sides and smaller corridors branch off from the main room.
 
=== School of Storms ===
{{book ref|sa1|5}}
Little is known about the function of the [[School of Storms]] at the present time. Scholars at the School of Storms have legacy access to the Palanaeum. Taravangian's granddaughter, [[Gvori]], is a current student at the school.{{book ref|sa3|122}}
- The hallways are particularly long and drill downwards into the mountain
 
== History ==
{{book ref|sa1|8}}
=== Origins and Early History ===
- There is no gate before the Conclave
Kharbranth was formerly a pirate town in its early years, before becoming a real city over the course of decades. It is rumored to be older than the [[Last Desolation]], with at least one source claiming that it was built during the [[shadowdays]]. During the time of the [[Silver Kingdoms]], the area in which Kharbranth is situated would have been considered part of Thalath. Kharbranth has been a [[Vorin]] nation since at least the [[Hierocracy]], and maintained a strong alliance with many of the other Vorin nations following the [[War of Loss]].{{book ref|sa1|3}}{{book ref|Sa1|8}}{{wob ref|7125}}{{map ref|Silver Kingdoms}}
 
The two chambers that make up the [[Palanaeum]] predate the founding of the city, with the rooms that house the Palanaeum's collection of manuscripts, books, and tomes having been added after people settled in the region. How the caverns were created is unknown, however, some believe that it was the work of the [[dawnsingers]]. At some point between the creation of the Palanaeum and present day, a fire occurred that destroyed parts of the library's collection.{{book ref|sa1|45}}{{epigraph ref|sa1|46}}{{book ref|sa1|7}}
{{book ref|sa1|29}}
- Another reference to the Conclave being underground
- Jasnah and Shallan's quarters are within the Conclave
 
=== Tales of Surgeons ===
{{book ref|sa1|33}}
{{quote
- Shallan and her drawings became well known around the Conclave fairly soon after she was taken on as Jasnah's ward.
|Don’t make the same mistake I did, son. When you get to Kharbranth, stay there. Don’t get sucked back to this tiny, backward, foolish town.
|Lirin's warning to Kaladin{{book ref|Sa1|31}}
}}
As a youth, [[Lirin]] travelled to Kharbranth as a courier, where he was introduced to different cultures and societies. Later in his life, Lirin studied medicine under [[Vathe]], who had been trained as a surgeon at the [[Great Concourse of Kharbranth]].{{book ref|sa1|10}}{{book ref|sa1|17}}
 
Lirin desired to send his son [[Kaladin]] to Kharbranth to train as a surgeon when he turned sixteen. Lirin and his wife [[Hesina]] stole a large number of spheres, claiming to have been given them by Brightlord [[Wistiow]] on his deathbed, in order to fund Kaladin's study in Kharbranth. After the arrival of [[Roshone]] in [Hearthstone]], Lirin and Hesina wrote to the surgeons in Kharbranth with a plea to let their son take the entry tests early, however, their request was denied. Lirin considered escaping Hearthstone and taking his family to Kharbranth after Roshone cut off all their means of income, however, decided instead to stay and continue to oppose the Brightlord.{{book ref|sa1|37}}{{book ref|sa1|25}}{{book ref|sa1|10}}{{book ref|sa1|17}}{{book ref|sa1|31}}
{{book ref|sa1|36}}
- The baths in the Conclave are carved directly into the ground and heated by fabrials. The Conclave <!--all of Kharbranth?--> has heated plumbing (the water is pre-heated using fabrials) and water is delivered to the baths via pipes.
- Heat fabrials are also used in Kharbranth to heat rooms.
- Books from the Palanaeum are not to be taken into the bathing chambers.
 
=== The Diagram and the Death Rattles ===
{{book ref|sa1|39}}
{/{Speculation}}
- Guests staying in the Conclave can leave their spanreeds with master-servants and be notified when they have received a message
- The palace gardens are varied, but not as extensive as those on Shallan's family's estate. Some are structured like mazes made of stone - the walls are tall enough to shield someone from view when sitting but not when standing.
 
{{quote
{{book ref|sa1|42}}
|Someone must bear the responsibility. Someone must be dragged down by it, ruined by it. Someone must stain their soul so others may live.
- It is a long walk from the Palanaeum to the guest quarters.
|Taravangian to Dalinar Kholin{{book ref|sa3|86}}
- The guest quarters are guarded by master-servants who fulfil the purpose of both concierges and guards and monitor who enters and exits the area.
}}
- The roof of Shallan's room has been left intentionally rough and resembles the roof of a cave.
- The maids that work for the king were carefully chosen
Taravangian goes for walks at midday and often walks through the gardens.
 
[[File:Taravangian_as_the_Wheel_of_Fortune_Orientation_1.jpg|250px|thumb|right|Taravangian, by [/[Coppermind: Artists/Tara Spruit|Tara Spruit]]]]
The Palanaeum
On the night of his death, [[Gavilar Kholin]] confided in [[Taravangian]] about the visions he had received regarding the [[True Desolation]]. Believing the visions had come from the [[Almighty]], Gavilar insisted to Taravangian that for the world to survive the True Desolation, it would have to be united. Taking the kings warning to heart, Taravangian travelled to The [[Valley]] to visit the [[Nightwatcher]] and beg her for the ability to save Roshar. The Nightwatcher bestowed Kharbranth's king with a boon and a curse; the boon being extreme intelligence and compassion. The curse, constant fluctuation of these traits and the inability to have both at the same time.{{book ref|sa2|i|14}}{{book ref|sa3|122}}{{wob ref|2892}}
 
At some point following his visit to the Nightwatcher, Taravangian experienced a day of extreme intelligence, where he transcribed a large number of predictions on the available surfaces in his bedroom. These writings were bound together into a tome referred to as the [[Diagram (literature)|Diagram]]. A [[Diagram (group)|society by the same name]] worships the Diagram, however, it is currently unknown if this society existed before the creation of the Diagram, or whether it was formed in response to Taravangian's creation.{{book ref|sa2|i|14}}
{{book ref|sa1|7}}
- Set in the Conclave within the mountain
- Both the Palanaeum and the Veil predate the founding of the city. Some on Roshar believe that the rooms were built by the dawnsingers.
 
Following its creation, the Diagram began supplementing Taravangian's predictions with the [[Death Rattle]]s provided by the Unmade [[Moelach]]. Moelach took up residence in Kharbranth in the year {{Rosharan date|1167}}, approximately around the time Gavilar began investigating the [[Shattered Plains]]. It is possible that the Unmade's arrival in Kharbranth could potentially be related to Gavilar's exploration of the eastern most part of Roshar. Why Moelach chose to settle specifically in Kharbranth at this time is unclear, however, when the Unmade began to move away from Kharbranth in 1173, Taravangian worried that the creature may return to slumber, implying that Moelach could possibly have been inactive prior to settling in Kharbranth.{{book ref|sa2|i|14}}
{{book ref|sa1|36}}
- The Palanaeum is open throughout the evening <!--(and doesn't close?)-->
The Veil
 
The [[Diagram (group)#Silent_Gatherers|Silent Gatherers]] were tasked with administrating and running the hospital where the Death Rattles were collected, however, the creation of this hospital, as well as the details surrounding the formation of this group, are currently unknown. It is also unknown when this operation began, and whether Death Rattles were collected prior to Taravangian's creation of the Diagram. Frequency in the number of Death Rattles begins to decline in late {{Rosharan date|1173}} before ceasing completely in {{Rosharan date|1174}} after Moelach departed the city and settled in the [[Horneater Peaks]]. Why the Unmade decided to leave Kharbranth is unknown, however, Taravangian postulated that it may have been drawn away by something residing to the west of the city and eventually circled back around to take up occupation within the boarders of Jah Keved. Despite the decline, and eventual cessation, of the Death Rattles, the hospital continued to operate after the departure of Moelach, as the potential for more Death Rattles outweighed the continued cost of human life.{{book ref|sa1|71}}{{book ref|sa2|i|14}}
{{book ref|sa1|7}}
-Before the Palanaeum proper is the Veil - a waiting room that stretches upwards into the mountain and with sides pocketed by private balconies.
- The door to the Veil is an intricate geometric design that incorporates circles, lines and glyph's and creates a chart, split across the two doors.
- There are stone shafts around the room with manually controlled elevators set into them to take people to the different levels. Four Parshmen are needed to operate these elevators
- The balconies can be accessed through hallways set into the stone surrounding the room.
- They are round like a turret, with a waist high stone rim and topped with a wooden railing.
- Desks connect to the rim of the balcony and follow the curved shape.
 
=== Scholar and Apprentice ===
{{book ref|sa1|46}}
{{quote
Epigraph - The original Palanaeum was involved in a fire <!--does this refer to the Palanaeum in Kharbranth or was there once a Palanaeum somewhere else?-->
|She closed her eyes and fixed an image in her mind: Kharbranth as she’d memorized it in that moment soon after landing on the docks. Waves surging against the wooden posts, a salty scent to the air, men climbing rigging calling one another with excitement. And the city itself, rising up the hillside, homes stacked atop homes, not a speck of land wasted. Bells, distant, tinkling softly in the air.
|Shallan's recollection of Kharbranth.{{book ref|sa1|7}}
}}
 
[[File:Jasnah_Soulcasting.jpg|250px|thumb|left|Jasnah Kholin Soulcasting criminals in Kharbranth, by [[Coppermind: Artists/Grant Hansen|Grant Hansen]]]]
The Palanaeum Proper
During the year {{Rosharan date|1173}}, [[Jasnah Kholin]] travelled to Kharbranth to access to the [[Conclave]] and the [[Palanaeum]], in order to continue her research into the Voidbringers and Urithiru. [[Shallan Davar]], who had been attempting to contact the Alethi princess for six months, arrived in Kharbranth part way through the year, relieved to find that she had finally caught up to Jasnah. Locating the woman in the Conclave, Shallan petitioned Jasnah to become her ward and, eventually, was accepted. Despite Shallan's enjoyment of scholarship, her primary purpose for seeking out Jasnah, was to switch the broken Davar Soulcaster, with Jasnah's functional one.{{book ref|sa1|3}}{{book ref|sa1|5}}{{book ref|Sa1|8}}
 
Shallan's arrival at the Conclave coincided with Jasnah helping Taravangian rescue his granddaughter, who had become trapped in an inner room of the palace following a cave-in. The situation had been deliberately planned by the Kharbranthian king, who wished to view the Alethi princess use her [[Soulcasting]] abilities when removing the fallen stone blocking the rooms entrance. Taravangian had suspected Jasnah did not need a physical Soulcaster to be able to use Soulcasting as an ability and to test this theory, engineered a scenario where he would be able to watch the Alethi princess wield her power. Jasnah Soulcast the rock into smoke, masking her abilities with the fake Soulcaster she wore on her right hand. In return for freeing his granddaughter, Taravangian granted Jasnah entry to the Palanaeum, which she had been unable to access until this point.{{book ref|sa1|3}}{{book ref|sa1|5}}{{wob ref|8070}}{{wob ref|3242}}{{wob ref|3243}}
{{book ref|sa1|7}}
- The Palanaeum proper is accessed through a small chamber full of soulcast crystal partitions.
- The chit of admittance for the Palanaeum proper is of one thousand sapphire broams, which pay for the many hospitals in Kharbranth. There is no fee to use the Veil.
- There are over seven hundred thousand seperate texts in the Palanaeum - more than even the Holy Enclave of Valath
 
Out late one night in the city, Shallan and Jasnah were attacked by a group of criminals while in an alley near the theatre district. Jasnah had deliberately taken them to a specific street where the criminals had been attacking, robbing, and killing people. She had planned to dispatch of the men as a service to Taravangian who she felt had put himself in a more precarious position than he realised when he allied with her and allowed her access to the Palanaeum. Jasnah killed the four men during the encounter, turning them into a variety of other substances using Soulcasting, and in doing so, saving both her own, and Shallan's life. Shallan, angry at Jasnah for the situation she had deliberately put them in, switched her broken Soulcaster, with Jasnah's device shortly after the pair returned to the Conclave.{{book ref|sa1|36}}
{{book ref|sa1|33}}
- Shaped like an inverted pyramid down into the rock, with a walkway running around the walls to form a giant square spiral. There is also a series of lifts to reach levels at a quicker pace.
- The bottom of the room cannot be seen from the top
- The Palanaeum proper doubles as the Kharbranthian royal treasury and the cities wealth of emeralds are used to light the walkways. They are periodically changed out by ardents from the Devotary of Insight
- The books, manuscripts and scrolls stored in the Palanaeum are stored in rooms with tall bookshelves that branch outwards from the walkways.
- Inside each room is troughs containing white powder. Shallan theorises that this is why the room are never damp
- The size of the Palanaeum and the high admittance fee makes it unlikely that people will run into each other while searching.
- Ardents and servants are available to collect volumes on request
- The Kharbrathian filing system is standard for many of Roshar's libraries and archives.
- Books are organized by the date that they entered the Palanaeum and the top level of the Palanaeum proper contains large cabinets filled with indexes
- The head of each (bookshelf) row is carved with a symbol indicating the date the book had entered the Palanaem
 
{{sidequote
{{book ref|sa1|45}}
|Am I a monster or am I a hero? Did I just slaughter four men, or did I stop four murderers from walking the streets? Does one deserve to have evil done to her by consequence of putting herself where evil can reach her? Did I have a right to defend myself? Or was I just looking for an excuse to end lives?”
- Ardent's will reshelve books
|Jasnah asking Shallan to consider the morality behind killing the footpads.{{book ref|sa1|36}}
- The Palanaeum proper has 57 levels
|side=right
- The main shaft of the room predates the creation of the city of Kharbranth. The rooms that branch away from the ramps and hold the books were cut out from the stone by Kharbranthians.
|size=300px
- The point of the inverted triangle aligns with the nadir and within it sits a large infused diamond.
- The Palanaem proper has a system of lifts that span the 57 floors (instead of one single lift for all floors)
 
Kharbranth's Hospital's
 
{{book ref|sa1|48}}
-Shallan is admitted to one of Kharbranth's hospitals after she slices open her arm to cover up the fact she had soulcast.
- Kharbranth has many high quality hospitals
- The hospital wards are shared by many patients and are large and resemble hallways
- Some, if not all, of the shared wards are segregated by gender.
- There are privacy screens that can be set up around the beds
- Taravangian also visits the hospitals in Kharbranth frequently and is well liked by the patients. The landlords and houselords involved in the political court of Kharbranth complain about how often the King spends in the hospitals but also exploit the political freedom that it allows them
- The hospitals cater to all - no one is turned away regardless of social rank of eye colour.
- The hospitals are funded by the chit of admittance that gains one access to the Palanaeum
- The hospital that Shallan stays in is run by an ardent called Mungam
 
 
{{quote
|The only things Kharbranth has to sell are fish, bells, and information. The first two are hardly unique to us. But the third … well, the Palanaeum has the finest collection of tomes and scrolls on Roshar.
|Master Servant to Shallan
{{book ref|sa1|7}}
}}
 
As the months passed, Shallan began to grow more and more aware of [[Pattern]] and the other Cryptics who watched her from the [[Cognitive Realm]]. Several times, Shallan unconsciously included them in portraits she created, first while sketching king Taravangian, and later in a sketch of herself and the ardent [[Kabsal]]. She also began hearing the Cryptics whispers, convincing herself that she was mishearing sounds made by the Conclave staff as they worked. Eventually Shallan was unable to ignore the spren, leading her to accidentally Soulcast a goblet into blood. To hide what she had done, Shallan cut open her arm, pretending that the blood was hers and was taken to one of the city's many hospitals. {{book ref|sa1|29}}{{book ref|sa1|42}}{{book ref|sa1|45}}
=== Cities ===
 
In the hospital, Shallan was visited by Jasnah, who had been studying outside the hospital room. While Jasnah was with Shallan, the pair were joined by Kabsal, whom Shallan had struck up a friendship with during her time in the city. In an attempt to kill Jasnah, Kabsal offered both women poisoned bread, knowing that Jasnah would not eat the jam that contained the antidote. Jasnah, suspecting that Kabsal was trying to assassinate her, Soulcast the jam when she inspected the jar, believing that it was the item that contained the poison. Unfortunately, she removed the antidote, leading to the poisoning of Shallan and Kabsal. Jasnah saved Shallan's life by Soulcasting her blood to remove the poison, learning at the same time that Shallan had stolen her Soulcaster.{{book ref|sa1|48}}
=== Notable Features ===
 
Jasnah eventually forgave Shallan for the theft and agreed to take her back on as her ward. Deciding that she had found all the information she could within the Palanaeum, Jasnah, along with Shallan, departed Kharbranth for the Shattered Plains in {{Rosharan date|1173}} upon the ship, ''[[Wind's Pleasure]]''.{{book ref|sa1|70}}{{book ref|sa2|1}}
== History ==
 
=== Expansion of Kharbranth's Alliances ===
Kharbranth was formerly a pirate town in its early years, before becoming a real city over the course of decades.{{annotation ref|sa1|chapter=3}} It is culturally diverse, with people from all over Roshar both visiting and residing there.{{book ref|sa1|3}} The city is home to the [[Palanaeum]], the largest library on Roshar.{{book ref|sa1|7}} Kharbranth is also known for the quality of its hospitals, and people come from all over the world to train in medicine.
During {{Rosharan date|1173}}, Taravangian acquired [[Szeth]]'s oathstone and tasked him with murdering a large number of high ranking officials in several foreign nations. These murders, dictated by the Diagram, aimed to cause chaos in several foreign nations including [[Jah Keved]] and [[Azir]]. Taravangian, as a precautionary measure, included his own name on the list given to Szeth to divert suspicion away from Kharbranth if the assassin had been captured during his spree. When Szeth travelled to Kharbranth to kill its king, Taravangian revealed that he was in possession of Szeth's oathstone and had been behind the list of assassinations Szeth had been given. After showing Szeth the hidden hospital where the Silent Gatherers collected the Death Rattles, Taravangian tasked Szeth with killing [[Dalinar Kholin]], who he believed had to die, based on his reading of the Diagram.{{book ref|sa1|71}}{{book ref|sa1|i|6}}
 
{{sidequote
{{book ref|sa1|3}}
|Leaders dead, lives lost. Panic and chaos. Was this your destiny? Do you wonder? Given that monstrosity of a Shardblade by your people, cast out and absolved of any sin your masters might require of you?
1173: Shallan arrived in Kharbranth on the ship, The Wind's Pleasure, searching for Princess Jasnah Kholin who had relocated to the city. [[Jasnah]] used the Palanaeum in her research of the [[Voidbringer]]s.{{book ref|sa1|3}}<!-- I don't think this is the best reference-->
|Taravangian when first confronted by Szeth{{book ref|Sa1|71}}
|side=left
|size=400px
}}
By using Szeth to causing mayhem and destruction across Roshar, Taravangian was able to further the goals of the Diagram and created a situation where he could take control of the [[Veden]] empire without creating suspicion. Towards the end of the [[Jah Keved#War of Succession|War of Succession]] ({{Rosharan date|1173}}), Taravangian sent food, medical supplies, and healers to the country to help the wounded on all sides of the fighting. In doing so, he secured a new ally for Kharbranth with whichever side was victorious. In the case that the country fell to ruin, Taravangian, through a distance connection to Veden royalty, could engineer a situation that would end with the king of Kharbranth on the Veden throne. When the war ended later that year, Taravangian was named as king by the previous monarch, [[Valam]], shortly before he died, securing Jah Keved as an ally for Kharbranth.{{book ref|sa2|i|14}}
 
Taravangian entered both Jah Keved and Kharbranth into an alliance with [[Alethkar]] in {{Rosharan date|1174}}, after Dalinar Kholin contacted the leaders of Roshar's nations seeking aid in the fight against the [[Voidbringers]]. Taravangian was the only leader to initially respond to Dalinar's request. The council of Kharbranth were suspicious of Dalinar's initial request, as well as his intentions with refounding the [[Knights Radiant]]. Mistrust of Dalinar increased amongst the council members after Dalinar pronounced the death of Honor, which those within the [[Vorin]] church conflate with the Almighty. [[Kadash]], one of Dalinar's ardents, did what he could to try and calm the council and allay their fears. It is unknown whether Kadash was successful, leading to the council agreeing with Taravangian to enter into an alliance with Alethkar, or whether the king of Kharbranth has executive power over foreign affairs.{{book ref|sa3|4}}{{book ref|sa3|12}}
{{book ref|sa1|5}}
Jasnah saves Taravangian's granddaughter after a cave-in following a highstorm. In exchange, she is granted access to the Palanaeum <!-- does this mean she couldn't access it before? Where the ardent's preventing her entry?-->
 
{{sidequote
{{book ref|sa1|7}}
|Kharbranth. Preserve only Kharbranth. You may destroy all other nations. Just leave my city. It is what I beg of you.”
After being initially denied her request for wardship, Shallan waited for the Brightwoman in the Veil, while Jasnah was within the Palanaeum. It is here that she first meets Kabsal, an Ardent who had come to the balcony also looking for Jasnah.
|Taravangian's deal with Odium{{book ref|sa3|122}}
|side=right
|size=400px
}}
 
Entering into an alliance with Dalinar, allowed Taravangian and the Diagram access to [[Urithiru]] and the inner workings of the Alethi government. Unimpeded from joining political assemblies with other foreign nations, or scholarly meetings, the Kharbranthian cohort were able to gather intelligence on the coalition, and several other nations of Roshar, and their research into Urithiru, the Voidbringers, as well as other matters. As part of the coalition, Taravangian was able to manipulate other world leaders, as well as spread misinformation that threatened the breakdown of the alliance, with the hope that Dalinar Kholin would fail, leaving Alethkar open to be secured under Taravangian's rule. Shortly before the [[Battle of Thaylen Field]], Taravangian attempted to undermine Dalinar's authority, anonymously releasing information about Dalinar's meeting [[Odium]], the highking proposal, and the translation of the [[Eila Stele]].{{book ref|sa3|24}}{{book ref|sa3|44}}{{book ref|sa3|107}}{{book ref|sa3|122}}{{book ref|Sa3|111}}
{{book ref|sa1|8}}
Jasnah was not initially impressed to see Shallan, snapping at her and sending her away. Not long after she apologised and after being further petitioned gave Shallan the chance to re-petition her once she had filled some of the gaps in her knowledge. Shallan met up with Yalb outside the Concave and on their way back to the Winds Pleasure, he inspires an idea in Shallan about how she could speed up her chances to re-petition Jasnah. They visit a Thaylen bookstore, where Yalb pretended to be a servant from a rival merchant to help bring down the price of Shallan's purchase. Heading back to the Palanaem, Shallan rented the balcony next to Jasnah's with the intent of cramming information. Jasnah joined her before she could begin and accepted Shallan as her ward, after first perusing her sketchbook and it's annotations.
 
In an attempt to gain favor with Odium, Taravangian interfered with the redeployment of troops from Urithiru to Thaylenah during the Battle of Thaylen City by having a member of the Diagram, Malata, unlock the Kholinar Oathgate in secret, allowing Odium's forces to invade the ancient city.{{book ref|sa3|122}}{{book ref|sa3|120}}
{{book ref|sa1|29}}
Shallan spoke via spanreed with her brothers about her progress in securing Jasnah's soulcaster. She learned that the estate had been visited by members of the Ghostblood who had supplied her father with the soulcaster and now wished for its return. Later in the Veil, Jasnah joined Shallan while she studied and the two spoke about the nature of scholarship and historians until they were joined by the King, Taravangian. The three ate lunch together and Shallan sketched a picture of the King at his request. The King asked Jasnah about her soulcaster, however, she refused to answer his questions. They then discussed religion. Shallan was unable to give the King her drawing as she had unconciously drawn cryptics in the background.
 
=== After the Battle of Thaylen Field ===
{{book ref|sa1|33}}
After receiving news that the Bridge Four members who had been left in Kholinar might still be alive, Kaladin flew towards Alethkar, stopping to stay the night in Kharbranth. Before moving on from the city, he requisitioned a number of infused gemstones from the Kharbranthian royal treasury to aid him on his travels.{{book ref|Sa3|122}}
Shallan was sent to the Palanaeum proper by Jasnah to locate a copy of the book Dialogues. Shallan used this time to also locate Shadows Remembered, a book that she had previously seen Jasnah reading. Shallan was disappointed to learn it was a book about darkeyed children's stories. Later, Kabsal expressed his concerns to Shallan about her spiritual wellbeing and the effect that Jasnah's hearsay may have on her. Shallan denied that she was being influenced by Jasnah's lack of religious beliefs. Kabsal tried to convince Shallan to change to his Devotary and shows her the cymatics patterns that can be found in the structure og four of Roshar's major cities: Thaylen City, Kholinar, Akinah and Vedenar. Jasnah was not impressed by the cymatics patterns and Kabsal left shortly after she arrived. Jasnah warned Shallan that he was trying to obtain her soulcaster and would try and turn Shallan to get her aid in doing so.
 
Following the battle, Taravangian revealed to Dalinar that Kharbranth had been behind Szeth's murderous spree across Roshar. He told Dalinar that he had sought out Szeth after Dova had approached the Taravangian and warned him that the Desolation was approaching. He also told Dalinar that he believed Dova to be the [[Herald]] [[Battah]]'Elin. It is unclear as to whether Taravangian truely believes this or if he is feeding Dalinar misinformation. Later, Odium met with Taravangian during the Everstorm agreeing to spare Kharbranth and its citizens during the imminent war in exchange for the Diagram's loyalty.{{book ref|sa3|121}}{{book ref|sa3|122}}
{{book ref|sa1|36}}
Presented with the opportunity to switch the soulcasters, Shallan found she was unable to follow through. She went with Jasnah into the city late at night and the pair were attacked by criminals. She soulcast the four men, one into fire, one into quartz and two into smoke, saving both her and Shallan's life. Jasnah had deliberately taken them to a specific street where the criminals had been attacking, robbing and killing people. She had planned to dispatch of the men as a service to Taravangian who she felt had put himself in a more precarious position than he realised when he allied with her and allowed her access to the Palanaeum. After retiring to their rooms in the Conclave, Shallan switched the soulcasters while Jasnah was not looking, motivated by her revulsion over what Jasnah had done in the alley.
 
== Culture ==
{{book ref|sa1|39}}
Kharbranth is a multicultural city that does not limit or restrict entrance to the city or its surrounding waters based on nationality or status.{{book ref|sa1|3}} As such, people from all walks of life and the many nations of Roshar can be found throughout the city.{{book ref|sa1|3}}
Alone in her room, Shallan contemplated morality and the different philosophical views of ethics, while recreating drawings of the encounter in the alley. By doing so she is not only forced to examine Jasnah's actions, but also her own; both in her plan to steal Jasnah's soulcaster but also her role in the death of her father. Lost in thought, she unconsciously drew a scene from her childhood; the death of her mothers lover. Spooked by the drawing, Shallan left her quarters, but was interrupted by a master-servant who had brought her spanreed which had activated. Shallan spoke with her brother and informed him that she had secured the soulcaster but would be unable to leave until she knew she would not be implicated. When a maid arrived to clean the rooms, Shallan transferred the soulcaster to her safe pouch and left to draw in the garden. After spending some time sketching, Shallan attempted to figure out how the soulcaster worked, however, was ultimately unsuccessful.
[[File:Shallan_in_Kharbranth.jpg|400px|thumb|right|Shallan in Kharbranth, travelling to the Conclave, by [[Coppermind: Artists/John Ly|John Ly]].]]
 
Restaurants can be found in Kharbranth.{{book ref|sa2|24}} Soup is the preferred lunch option.{{book ref|sa1|29}}
{{book ref|sa1|42}}
After two weeks of thought over the incident in the alley, Shallan gives Jasnah her philosophical conclusions over the Alethi princess' actions. Jasnah excused Shallan from her study for the rest of the day and Shallan retired to her room to again try to work the Soulcaster. While taking a break, she hears a disembodied whisper within her room. She quickly realises that the maid is in the main room doing her daily clean. Despite admitting to herself that the words had come from inside her room and had been softly whispered, she convinced herself that she had misheard the sounds of the maid cleaning and interpreted them as words. Shallan realised that the maid had gone into Jasnah's room by mistake to clean, despite strict rules not to. She sent the maid away to apologise to Jasnah then used the opportunity to snoop. In the room, she found several of Jasnah's journals - one on Urithiru, one on the voidbringers and one on New Natanatan, The Shattered Plains and the Unclaimed Hills. She is pulled away from searching by Kabsal, who arrived offering her lunch. In the gardens they flirted and talked about Shallan's father and soulcasting. Kabsal hid when Taravangian entered the gardens, and confessed he was supposed to be working instead of having lunch with Shallan. He left shortly after and Shallan returned to her rooms. Back in her rooms, Shallan found a note from Captain Tozbek of the Wind's pleasure advising that they would be returning to Kharbranth in a weeks time and would be able to take her back to Vedenar. Shallan returned to the Veil to join Jasnah in her study, wanting to make the most of the time she had left in the city to dedicate to scholarship.
 
=== Religion ===
{{book ref|sa1|45}}
Kharbranth is one of the five [[Vorin]] nations.{{book ref|sa1|8}} The [[ardentia]] in Kharbranth holds a degree of influence within the city and remains in contact with the other Vorin leaders in the eastern Rosharan nations.{{book ref|sa1|5}}{{book ref|sa3|50}} Ardents, along side their religious duties, manage and staff the [[Palanaeum]].{{book ref|sa1|45}}{{book ref|sa1|33}} Not all Devotaries can be found in Kharbranth, with the city currently containing no ardents from the Devotary of Sincerity.{{book ref|sa1|48}} The Kharbranthian ardentia do not own any [[Soulcaster]]s{{book ref|sa1|42}} and Taravangian keeps careful track, and is familiar, with his ardents.{{book ref|sa1|42}}
While studying the death of King Gavilar Kholin, Shallan noted that he had been incredibly interested in the Parshendi people and their culture for a man who had never before been interested in scholarship. Jasnah confirmed her fathers interest in the Parshendi had begun from his first meeting with them, a fact many often overlooked. Shallan, unsure of why Jasnah had her studying Gavilar, asked her mentor why she had been set to study what the princess had lived through. Their conversation carried them to the topic of Urithiru and the Voidbringers. Unable to get many answers out of her mentor and wanting to make the most of her dwindling access to the Palanaeum, Shallan excused herself under the false pretense of finding a copy of Tifandor's biography of Gavilar. After finding little in the way of conclusive information about the Voidbringers, Shallan began to make her way back through the Palanaeum, intending to rejoin Jasnah, however ran into Kabsal who had been looking for her. On their way back to the Veil, Shallan asked him about the Voidbringers, leading the two to discuss Jasnah's research. Taking her study to be about undermining Vorinism and the devotaries, Kabsal expressed his anger at the way the ardents were treated, before getting his emotions under control. Shallan, knowing she couldn't continue to hide her plans to leave, told Kabsal of her intentions. After he requested a portrait from her, the two returned to the Veil, where Shallan had left her drawing materials. He quickly requested a second sketch, this one of both of them, paying her for it with one of the King's spheres. To the second drawing, Shallan added the forms of several Cryptics to the background. Panicking, Shallan hurried away from the alcove, running back towards her rooms in the guest quarters. Along the way she continued to take Memories, drawing them out quickly to show the spren following along after her. After locking herself in her room, she takes one final Memory and discovered the beings to be crowded around her. Frightened, she began to summon her shardblade before being interrupted by one of the Crytics speaking to her. Prompted by his words, she speaks a Truth and she is transported to Shadesmar, where she unwittingly soul casts the goblet on her desk into blood. Returning to herself in her room, she hears Jasnah in their shared common area, coming to find her and make sure she was alright. To hide the fact that she had soulcast, Shallan cut a gash in her arm to pretend that the blood was her own.
 
Like other Vorin nations, Kharbranth's social structure is based in eye coloring, with lighteyes considered the upper class, while darkeyes the lower, or working class. Each class is further split into a ten rank system; [[dahn]] for lighteyes and [[nahn]] for darkeyes. Each rank reflects different amounts of power and influence within the Vorin system, with those of the first or second rank holding more privilege than those of lesser ranks. The Kharbranth king would be considered of equal status to that of first dahn, however, traditionally does not claim this rank.{{wob ref|4006}} Unlike other Vorin nations such as [[Alethkar]], Kharbranth does not allow for human slaves.{{book ref|sa1|63}} The city does, however, still utilise parshmen for free labor.{{book ref|sa1|3}}
{{book ref|sa1|48}}
Two days later, Shallan found herself confined to a hospital bed. Unable to leave as she was believed to be a suicide risk, she drew; pictures of the Shadesmar, of herself trapped in her room and bleeding and the Cryptics. They continued to follow her, lurking at the edges of the hospital room and filled her with unease. During his visit, Taravangian granted Shallan's request for visitors and Jasnah joined her, not long after the King had left. Believing that Shallan had tried to kill herself from being overworked, Jasnah apologised and gave her the Book of Endless Pages, a central part of the Devotary of Sincerity. Shortly after, Kabsal joined the pair, bring with him - as always - bread and jam. This time he presented her with strawberry jam, rarely found on Roshar as it could only be produced in Shinovar. Jasnah examined the jar, subtly soulcasting it as she believed it to contain poison. Shallan insisted that the princess have some of the bread brought by the ardent even if she would not have any jam. Again, Jasnah soulcast the bread to remove any poison. Kabsal offered Shallan the jam, however it was no longer appealing and Shallan refused in disgust. Alarmed, Kabsal insisted that Shallan try it, eating a large glob to try and counteract the poison he had also ingested that had been sprinkled on the bed. When Shallan continued to refuse he tried to flee, however collapsed. The poison began to affect Shallan and Jasnah called for a garnet to be brought to her so that she could soulcast Shallan's blood, removing the toxin. Confused and drugged, Shallan tried to tell her that the princess' soulcaster was fake and pulled her safepouch from her safehand sleeve, revealing that she had stolen the soulcaster. As she faded to unconsciousness, Shallan felt the effects of Jasnah's soulcasting, purifying her body of the poison.
 
=== Language ===
The Kharbranthian language is very similar to [[Alethi]] and [[Veden]], with all three being considered similar dialects of the same language. Differences between the three languages come largely from variations in pronunciation, instead of variances in the language's vocabulary.{{wob ref|7125}}
 
=== Economy ===
{/{for|Spheres}}
 
Like most of [[Roshar]], Kharbranth uses [[spheres]], glass beads with an imbedded gemstone, as its currency. Spheres infused with [[Stormlight]] are also used as a light source.{{book ref|sa1|3}}{{book ref|sa1|33}} The type and size of each imbedded gemstone determines the value of the sphere with a diamond chip being the smallest denomination and an emerald broam the largest. The [[Palanaeum]] doubles as Kharbranth's royal treasury, and the city's store of emeralds are used to light the pathways within the Palanaeum proper.{{book ref|sa1|33}}
[[Lirin]] desired to send his son [[Kaladin]] to Kharbranth to train as a surgeon at the [[Great Concourse of Kharbranth]].{{book ref|sa1|10}}{{book ref|sa1|17}}
 
== Politics ==
The smallest of the five [[Vorin]] nations, Kharbranth is a fragile, but independent, city-state governed by King [[Taravangian]] who also rules over [[Jah Keved]].
 
=== Government ===
- Vorin ranks - Taravangian would be on the level of first dahn (?) but does not use the ranking system as it would negatively affect foreign relations - find WOB and confirm
{{quote
Jasnah would rank higher?{{book ref|sa1|5}} - confirm against WOB
|Taravangian, the king of Kharbranth. A beloved monarch, known for building and maintaining hospitals in his city. It was known as far away as Azir that if you were sick, Taravangian would take you in. Come to Kharbranth and be healed. The king loved all.
|Taravangian's public image{{book ref|sa1|71}}
}}
 
The highest seat of government in Kharbranth is the position of the king, currently held by Taravangian, who rules alongside a governing council.{{book ref|sa3|12}} The exact dynamic between the king and the council is currently unknown, however, the king is able to propose and influence policy, decide upon and conduct foreign affairs, and also has some form of direct authority over the implementation of laws.{{book ref|sa2|i|14}}
{{book ref|sa1|8}}
Kharbranth was strong allies with Jah Keved, Alethkar and Natanatan following the Recreance because of their shared religion.
 
Taravangian is a popular king, beloved by the common darkeyed citizen of Kharbranth for the time and effort he invests in the city's hospitals.{{book ref|sa1|29}} Doing so, however, allows greater political freedom which the elite gladly capitalise on.{{book ref|sa1|48}} Despite this, those in the royal court are known to complain about the amount of time Taravangian spends at the hospitals in the city, believing he places too much priority on the institutions.{{book ref|sa1|48}} In general, lighteyed residents of Kharbranth find the king to be dull and his political capabilities to be lacking.{{book ref|sa1|29}}
{{book ref|sa1|29}}
 
{{sidequote
- Taravangian is a beloved King to the dark eyed citizen's of Kharbranth because of his dedication to building and maintaining a large number of hospitals. Lighteyes, however, find him dull and not a fantastic politician.
|He may not offer binding commentary on the Diagram, but he may interact outside of supervision. He may change government policy so long as there is a three-day delay before the changes take effect, and he may also freely pass judgment in trials.
- Taravangian gained enemies by welcoming Jasnah to Kharbranth
|Mrall's judgement on Taravangian's daily restrictions.{{book ref|sa2|i|14}}
|side=right
|size=300px
}}
 
Although the king of Kharbranth would be considered equal to first [[dahn]] under the Vorin class system, they do not traditionally claim the rank, due to Kharbranth's city-state status.{{wob ref|4006}} King Taravangian is known to show deference to foreign nationals, which likely furthers the upper class' poor opinion of his political competency.{{book ref|sa1|5}} Additionally, by welcoming [[Jasnah Kholin]] to Kharbranth and allowing her access to the [[Palanaeum]], Taravangian may have strained relations between himself and the [[Vorin]] leaders in Kharbranth.{{book ref|sa1|5}}{{book ref|sa1|29}}
{{book ref|sa1|36}}
- Several murders occur in the same street near the theatre district, however, the city watch takes no action to prevent further death, despite several reprimands from Taravangian. This may be due to backroom deals between the commander of the city watch and his cousin who is a politically influential lighteyes in the city. There is also rumors that the criminals are bribing the watch.
- Jasnah worries about the trouble she may bring Taravangian through his alliance with her.
 
Taravangian's intelligence and compassion fluctuate on a daily basis and he must be tested each morning to determine how much control he has over policy and how much he can interact with the politicians and citizens of Kharbranth. Initially, his political power was to be limited only on days of extreme unintelligence, however, after proposing, and attempting to implement, a eugenics program in Kharbranth on a day of high intelligence, it was decided that his ability to affect policy be restricted for both extremes.{{book ref|sa2|i|14}} Additionally, Taravangian's ability to interact with others is restricted on days of both low and high intelligence, as he has previously attempted to reveal his condition to the general public.{{book ref|sa2|i|14}}
{{book ref|sa1|48}}
Taravangian also visits the hospitals in Kharbranth frequently and is well liked by the patients. The landlords and houselords involved in the political court of Kharbranth complain about how often the King spends in the hospitals but also exploit the political freedom that it allows them
 
Kharbranth, while generally considered a safe city,{{book ref|sa1|3}} has previously had issues surrounding violent crime, which have not been adequately policed.{{book ref|sa1|36}} It is suspected by some that the city watch has deliberately avoided taking action against violent criminals in the past due to corruption and influence from politicians.{{book ref|sa1|36}} While Taravangian has issued several reprimands to the city watch, behaviours have not improved greatly, leading to some visitors to the city, such as Jasnah Kholin, to take matters into their own hands.{{book ref|sa1|36}}
=== Government ===
 
=== Military ===
Kharbranth has only a small standing army so as to not affect its cultivated image of being unassuming and unthreatening.{{book ref|sa2|i|14}}{{book ref|sa3|24}} It is known that Kharbranth does not wage war and has previously offered foreign aid to both sides of the same conflict.{{book ref|sa2|i|14}}{{book ref|Sa3|24}} The city-state does not have a true navy, however, has a number of merchant ships that can be commandeered in times of need.{{book ref|sa3|107}}
 
=== LocalForeign GovernmentRelations ===
[[File:Cryptics.jpg|thumb|right|500px|Shallan Davar surrounded by Cryptics, overlooking Kharbranth, by [[Coppermind: Artists/Yoav Kozenyuk|Yoav Kozenyuk]]]]
In the past, Kharbranth has had strong alliances with other Vorin nations, due to their shared religion.{{book ref|sa1|8}} Taravangian was a close friend and confident with Gavilar Kholin before his death, however, it is unknown if there was a formal alliance between Alethkar and Kharbranth during Gavilar's time as king.{{book ref|sa3|24}}
 
Currently Kharbranth is allied with both [[Dalinar Kholin]]'s alliance, which includes [[Alethkar]], [[Jah Keved]], [[Thaylenah]], and [[Azir]], as well as [[Odium]]'s forces. In exchange for loyalty from the [[Diagram]], Odium has agreed to spare Kharbranth, its citizens and their spouses, in his war against [[Roshar]].{{book ref|sa3|122}}
== Culture ==
 
It is rumored, throughout foreign nations, that [[Taravangian]] is a figurehead only for the city of Kharbranth and instead the true power behind the throne is Taravangian's head scribe [[Adrotagia]], or another scribe.{{book ref|sa3|24}} One of Taravangian's scribes manages Taravangian's duties as king, while he, and his closest advisors, are away from Kharbranth as part of Dalinar Kholin's coalition.{{book ref|sa3|24}}
{{book ref|sa1|42}}
- Kharbranth owns no soulcasters
=== Peoples ===
 
=== The Diagram ===
People
{/{for|The Diagram|Diagram_(group)}}
 
The [[Diagram (group)|Diagram]] is a secret society on [[Roshar]] that is headed by Taravangian and based around a book of predictions, that goes by the same name. The [[Diagram (literature)|Diagram]] (literature) is a recollection of writings by Taravangian that was created on a day of extreme intelligence. These predictions, initially written over many surfaces within the kings bedroom, have been transcribed as written and form the basis of the secret society.{{book ref|sa2|i|14}} Different sects exist within the society and interpret the Diagram differently to Taravangian.{{wob ref|4968}} The society heavily influences the governing of Kharbranth, dictating the size of the city-states military as well as how Kharbranth should present itself to foreign nations.{{book ref|sa2|i|14}}
{{book ref|sa1|3}}`
- Wide variety of people and cultures.
- Jah Keved - shirts and trousers that lace at the front for men, skirts and colourful blouses for women
- Tashikk - clothing of single sheet wraps
- ?? - ankle length coats, open at the front
- Natanatan - gloved hands and slightly bluish skin
- ?? - tall stately people dressed in robes of black
- ?? - Men with beards bound in cords, looking rodlike
 
Members of the Diagram known as the [[Diagram (group)#Silent Gatherers|Silent Gatherers]], staff and manage the secret hospital hidden within the Conclave, where patients and citizens are brought to be killed and the [[Death Rattle]]s collected.{{book ref|sa1|71}} This operation is overseen by the ardent, Dova, during times that Taravangian is away from the city.{{book ref|sa2|i|14}}
{{book ref|sa1|29}}
- Kharbrathian's prefer soup for their lunch
 
=== Religion ===
 
Kharbranth is a Vorin nation{{book ref|sa1|8}}
 
The ardents hold a lot of sway in the city but so does Taravangian. He is not worried about them when he enlists Jasnah to help soulcast a rock and save his granddaughter.{{book ref|sa1|5}}
 
{{book ref|sa1|42}}
"The king keeps careful track of his ardents"
 
{{book ref|sa1|48}}
There are none from the Devotary of Sincerity in Kharbranth
 
=== Language ===
 
=== Economy ===
 
== Notable Citizens ==
*[[Taravangian]]: king of Kharbranth
*[[Adrotagia]]: head scribe.
{{book ref|sa1|42}}
*[[Dova]]: ardent and potentially the Herald Battah'Elin.
Taravangian goes for walks at midday and often walks through the gardens.
*[[Dukar]]: stormwarden. Dukar is in charge of Taravangian's daily intelligence testing and helps determine whether the king is fit for duty each morning.
 
*[[Mrall]]: Taravangian's bodyguard and the final adjudicator on the king's daily intelligence testing.
{{book ref|sa1|48}}
*[[Kabsal]]: ardent. Deceased.
He also visits the hospitals in Kharbranth frequently and is well liked by the patients
*[[Joshor]]: Head of the Silent Gatherers.
*[[Pailiah]]{/{disputed}}{{ref|group=fn|text=In 2017 a Word of Brandon from a signed book confirmed that the ardent Shallan finds in the Palanaeum, while searching for the book ''Shadows Remembered'', is the [[Herald]] [[Pailiah]]. No photo of this WOB is attach to the Arcanum entry and Brandon has been evasive when asked to confirm whether this information is true.{{wob ref|4419}}{{wob ref|11589}}{{wob ref|11521}}{{book ref|Sa1|33}}}}
 
== Trivia ==
* The Alethi, Veden, and Kharbranthian languages are closer in similarity than Spanish and Portuguese.{{wob ref|7125}}
 
* Kharbranth resembles the Italian city Positano, however, this was not intentional on Brandon's part. Isaac Stewart used real world inspirations for the maps found in the books, and although Brandon believes Positano may be one of the cities Isaac used, this has not been confirmed.{{wob ref|4005}}
* The Palanaeum was named for [[Pailiah]] the [[Herald]]. It's name is based off the Greek word "Athenaeum".{{wob ref|10562}}
* It was partly inspired from the ancient [[wikipedia:Library_of_Alexandria|Library of Alexandria]].{{wob ref|12099}}
* An [https://github.com/Palanaeum/palanaeum open-source project] created by [[17thshard.com|17th Shard]] for archiving and transcribing Words of Brandon was named after the Palanaeum.
== See Also ==
 
 
Plot:
== Notes ==
;Footnotes
<references />
<references group=fn />
;References
<references/>
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