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{{for|Cognitive Realm|the Cognitive Realm in general|pre=This article is about the Cognitive Realm region specific to [[Roshar]]}}
'''Shadesmar''' is the Rosharan subastral in the [[Cognitive Realm
Shadesmar is the colloquial name{{wob ref|7199}} of the Rosharan subastral{{wob ref|5814}} and also the Rosharan translation of "Cognitive Realm".{{wob ref|3010}} Although other worlds have their own words for "Cognitive Realm", when these get magically translated to another language, it results in the name "Shadesmar", even if not in reference to the Rosharan subastral.{{wob ref|10305}} Shadesmar, as coined and used by Rosharans, is also used in [[Silverlight]] as the [[cosmere]] standard.{{wob ref|10305}}
=== Locations ===
The Rosharan subastral is part of a single infinite plane{{wob ref|8594}} that connects to the other subastrals in the [[cosmere]] by regions that are locally known as ''Expanses''.{{map ref|Shadesmar}} Moving far enough in the direction of an Expanse, will take you to another world in the cosmere.{{wob ref|1392}}{{wob ref|1540}} The four Expanses at the edge of the Rosharan subastral are;
[[File:Shadesmar (TWoK).jpg|thumb|left|600px|Shadesmar Map by {{Isaac_Stewart}}]]
{{columns|count=1|
}}
It is possible{{wob ref|13234}} to cross between diametrical points on [[Roshar]] by utilizing the Cognitive Realm, however, it would be difficult.{{wob ref|12721}}
==== Notable Locations ====
True [[spren]] live in a number of cities and other settlements in Shadesmar. Some of these cities are inhabited and ruled by a single type of spren,{{book ref|sa2|3}}{{book ref|sa3|102}}{{book ref|
*[[Celebrant]] - a prominent trading port that can be found in the [[Sea of Lost Lights
*[[Lasting Integrity]] - the honorspren capital, located in the [[Sea of Souls]]
*[[Unyielding Fidelity]] - an honorspren stronghold located near [[Kharbranth]]
*[[Nameless]] - a small trading village in the Sea of Souls
== Geography and Ecology ==
=== Environment ===
The Cognitive Realm is an inverse reflection of the [[Physical Realm]], with Shadesmar's bodies of "water" mirroring land in the Physical Realm, and Cognitive Realm land being the reflection of oceans, rivers, and lakes. In the Rosharan subastral, "water" is made up of small beads that represent the cognitive aspects of physical world objects, while the land is created out of obsidian.{{book ref|sa2|7}}{{book ref|sa3|87}}{{book ref|sa3|89}}
Shadesmar overlays the Physical Realm,{{book ref|sa2|1}} however, as the Cognitive Realm is more compact,{{book ref|sa4|i|2}} locations
[[File:ROW_BG_contestant1.jpg|thumb|right|400px| Shallan overlooking Shadesmar by Георги Маджаров (Georgi Madzharov)]]
The sky in Shadesmar is pitch black{{book ref|sa2|7}} with no moon or stars.{{book ref|sa3|95}}{{book ref|sa4|22}} On the horizon sits a small, frail,{{book ref|sa4|22}} white sun,{{book ref|sa1|45}}{{book ref|sa2|1}} that provides enough light to illuminate the lands but not the sky, despite appearing almost too weak to achieve even this.{{book ref|sa4|22}} The sun does not move or change regardless of time of day or distance traveled - because of this, Shadesmar does not have any natural day and night cycle.{{book ref|sa3|91}}{{book ref|sa3|95}}{{book ref|Sa4|24}} Shadesmar has a natural atmosphere with a breathable atmosphere due to air permeating into the Cognitive from the Physical Realm.{{wob ref|9512}}
Long, straight,{{book ref|sa2|prologue}} flat{{book ref|sa3|116}} clouds run directly towards the sun{{book ref|sa2|prologue}} and give the impression that the object is at the end of a long tunnel.{{book ref|sa1|48}} It is possible for these clouds to appear and disappear and this may be related to which angle they are observed from.{{book ref|sa4|26}} The clouds are also corporeal and are sometimes used as landing pads for types of flying spren. When utilized this way, the spren disrupt the cloud patterns.{{book ref|sa4|34}}
Shadows behave strangely in Shadesmar, depending on the source of light that is creating them. Shadows cast by the sun will point towards it instead of away,{{book ref|sa2|7}}{{book ref|sa4|22}} while those cast by manifested fire will point away from the light source as would occur in the Physical Realm.{{book ref|sa3|97}} Backward shadows occur on rare occasions in the Physical Realm, and are related in some way to Shadesmar.{{wob ref|467}}{{book ref|sa2|prologue}}{{book ref|sa2|i|3}}
The land in Shadesmar is made of a glassy, black obsidian. Because of the nature of this material, the ground is cold to touch{{book ref|sa3|117}} and it is easy to move quietly.{{book ref|sa3|97}} The ground can be used as a resource if necessary,{{book ref|sa3|110}}{{book ref|sa4|26}} although it is difficult to remove chunks of obsidian as it shatters if struck incorrectly.{{book ref|sa4|26}} The spren rarely use obsidian as a building material because of this difficulty, although they occasionally create weaponry from it. To access pieces of usable obsidian, pickaxes are needed. Once removed, the obsidian is able to be [[Soulcast]], and is easily persuaded to change into other materials.{{book ref|sa4|21}}{{book ref|sa4|26}}
It is common to find peninsulas in Shadesmar as they are the mirror of Physical Realm rivers. The depth of the river does not dictate the depth of the peninsula and in most cases one would not be able to swim underneath the peninsula.{{wob ref|11365}} Channels are sometimes cut in these sections of land to create more convenient sea routes for travelers and traders.{{book ref|sa3|108}}{{map ref|Sea of Lost Lights}} Lighthouses can be found at the end of these peninsulas to signal to passing ships that they are close to land and that they should beware of hidden rocks.{{book ref|sa3|110}} These lighthouses are also trade waypoints where ships can deliver goods or restock supplies for their ongoing journey.{{book ref|sa3|95}}
Instead of water, Shadesmar oceans, rivers, and lakes are made of small, translucent,{{book ref|sa2|1}} dark glass beads,{{book ref|sa1|45}}{{book ref|sa2|prologue}} approximately the size of the tip of an index finger,{{book ref|sa4|22}} a bean, or a fingernail.{{wob ref|8533}} Each of these beads represent the soul of
It is possible to gain impressions from beads of what object they represent{{book ref|sa2|prologue}}{{wob ref|6642}} - this is more easily done by those who are [[Investiture#Investiture_of_Humans|Invested]],{{book ref|sa3|89}}{{book ref|sa3|93}} however, there is still an element of natural talent with some people being better suited to the task than others.{{book ref|sa4|26}} [[Investiture]] is not needed to get impressions or visualize the souls of the beads,{{book ref|sa3|108}} although the beads are attracted to Investiture and will swarm someone who holds it if they are able to sense it.{{book ref|sa2|prologue}} Impressions will match the magnitude of the object, with larger, older, and/or grander objects threatening to overwhelm the person holding the bead.{{book ref|sa3|89}} As well as this, the weight of each bead is related, but not equal, to the physical object it represents, with souls for larger objects being deceptively heavier than they appear.{{book ref|sa2|7}}
Investiture, such as [[Stormlight]], can be detected by the beads if contained in a gemstone, or held by a [[Radiant]]. The degree that the beads can sense Investiture from a Knights Radiant is dependent on the
If fed Stormlight by a [[Lightweaver]] or [[Elsecaller]], the beads can be used to build objects based on visualization the soul of a specific bead.{{wob ref|14422}} The beads will fit together with the source bead to form a lattice like structure until the object has
Like with water, it is possible to drown if pulled under the beads, as they will swarm beings if they make contact and will attempt to force their way into a person's mouth and throat,{{book ref|sa2|prologue}} causing them to suffocate.{{book ref|sa1|70}} It is not possible to swim through the beads as they provide no buoyancy, and instead people will sink into what feels like a viscous liquid.{{book ref|sa2|prologue}} There is an underwater current that moves the beads,{{book ref|sa3|93}}{{book ref|sa3|99}} that is stronger than what would normally be found in
There is a variety of plant life in Shadesmar, which, like in the Physical Realm, appears to differ based on region. Plants and trees are made of different types of glass or crystal and can be a variety of colors.{{book ref|sa2|7}}{{book ref|sa3|95}}{{book ref|sa3|110}} While a number of these plants are brittle and will shatter if touched, some are sturdier and are less prone to breaking.{{book ref|sa3|95}} While some plants and trees share the same general physical shape as flora in the [[Physical Realm]], others, such as mushroom trees, are much more alien.{{book ref|sa3|97}} Fully fledged forests can be found in the south of Shadesmar, both near the [[Oathgate#Thaylenah|Thaylenah Oathgate]]{{book ref|sa3|116}} and near [[Lasting Integrity]].{{book ref|sa4|75}}
Physical Realm creatures can also be found in the Cognitive, having been brought through a perpendicularity.{{book ref|sa3|102}} While most Physical Realm animals seem to appear as they would in their natural habitat, [[Ryshadium]] trail a faint afterimage.{{book ref|sa4|22}}
An animal exists in the Cognitive Realm that vaguely resembles a horse, and is used in a similar manner, by [[Spren#True_Spren|true spren]].{{book ref|
Living
If someone is corrupted, their soul will turn red.{{book ref|sa3|116}} The souls of [[Fused]] appear as a twisted humanoid shape that
If someone is to die in the Physical Realm, their soul flame will disappear. Although the deceased does not seemingly appear in Shadesmar after they die, as they do in the [[Cognitive_Realm#Scadrial|Scadrial subastral]], it may be that they are just not visible to regular people, and one would need to be a [[Cognitive Shadow]] themselves to see the newly departed soul.{{book ref|sa3|89}}{{wob ref|11427}} Similar to the beads, touching a soul flame will give the impression of the person it represents and it is possible to feel their emotions and general thoughts.{{book ref|sa3|89}}
Singers are closer to the Cognitive Realm than humans and this, in part, is what allows them to change forms.{{epigraph ref|sa2|32}} [[Lift]] is also unique in that she
:''Main article:'' [[Spren]]
[[File:Spren_by_Marie_Seeberger.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Spren in their Shadesmar form by {{a|MarieSeeberger}}]]
Shadesmar is predominantly populated by spren, with [[Spren#True_Spren|true spren]] organized in civilizations and [[Spren#Lesser_Spren|lesser spren]] roaming wild, similar to animals as they would be found in the Physical Realm.{{book ref|sa4|22}} Many of these lesser spren live within the bead ocean{{book ref|sa3|89}} as they are drawn to human populations that are in the equivalent location in the other realm.{{book ref|sa3|101}} There is a regionality to the spread of spren types and certain spren may be more commonly found in different areas.{{wob ref|14430}} The number of spren in Shadesmar help to act as "release valves" for Honor’s splintered power, due to their nature as [[Splinter]]s.{{wob ref|4129}}
Many of the spren that live in the oceans are
Like in the Physical Realm, true spren do not tire from activities{{book ref|sa3|95}} nor do they require sleep or food
Spren physically reside in
The only time spren can voluntarily transfer their whole self into the Physical, is when they become Shardblades. When not in Blade form, a true spren’s physical body will present in Shadesmar, even though their mind has crossed over to another realm.{{book ref|sa2|7}} This partial transition is often why Radiant spren can remain invisible if they choose, although there is a level of skill that is involved with both appearing and disappearing from sight.{{book ref|sa2|i|9}} These spren will also still be visible in the Cognitive Realm even if they have become invisible in the other realm.{{book ref|sa4|11}}
Spren that have transitioned have barely any substance in the Physical making it difficult to touch them, and in some cases it should be impossible.{{book ref|sa2|i|9}} When Radiant spren first transition their minds from Shadesmar, they lose much of their mind and memory,{{book ref|sa2|7}} and risk losing their sapience.{{book ref|sa1|11}} This memory loss differs between spren and/or likely returns at different rates.{{book ref|sa2|i|9}}{{book ref|sa4|22}} Returning to the Cognitive Realm does not restore their memories completely, however, spren do appear to gain a certain amount of recognition about their surroundings{{book ref|sa3|95}} and some memories of the
Not all lesser spren reside in Shadesmar, with those that are more suited to primarily the Physical Realm, such as [[windspren]], rarely being seen in the Cognitive.{{book ref|sa3|108}} Lesser spren that live in the Cognitive can still be attracted by their individual attribute or emotion, which can pose a threat to travelers if a violent or vicious
===== Spren as Fabrials =====
Sapient spren that have transitioned themselves to the Physical Realm, including [[Spren#Odium.27s_Influence|corrupted spren]],{{book ref|sa4|19}} to become
==== Urithiru and the Sibling ====
In Shadesmar, the [[Sibling]] resembles a shimmering mountain of bright light. Similar to the
Spren can be harder to see
Urithiru sits at a higher elevation than the bead ocean and ramps can be found
==== Unmade ====
Many of the [[Unmade]] exists within the space between the Cognitive and Physical Realm, and were deliberately trapped there by [[Odium]].{{book ref|sa4|i|2}} They are able to see into both, however the corporality of their form in either realm differs between individuals.{{book ref|Sa4|i|2}}{{book ref|sa3|89}}{{book ref|sa3|84}} Different Unmade may have varying levels of control over which plane they exist in at any given time, and how much they can move around the different realms.{{book ref|Sa4|i|2}}{{book ref|sa3|89}}{{book ref|sa3|84}}{{book ref|sa2|i|14}}
Weather patterns in Shadesmar differ to those from the Physical Realm, and are not based on temperature or precipitation.{{book ref|sa4|75}} As such, travelers and residents of the Cognitive Realm do not need shelters that are equipped to deal with storms
Instead of physical patterns, the Shadesmar weather has a direct effect on the emotions and wellbeing of spren, causing them to feel invigorated on some days and dreary and weighed down on others. Both
On a crystalline day, a faint violet-pink shimmering haze can be seen in the air in the far distance. Plants are also affected on these days and will grow faster, with changes being visible to the naked eye. Before plant growth occurs, a faint shimmer can be seen in the surrounding air. Pink crystal fuzz will also spontaneously grow on objects before spreading over nearby surfaces.{{book ref|sa4|75}}
One type of weather energizes the
The
The three realms blend together within the
==== Honor's Perpendicularity ====
[[Honor's Perpendicularity]], also referred to as Honor’s path,{{book ref|sa4|111}} is an unstable portal{{book ref|sa3|93}} that can allow for transport between the Physical and Cognitive Realm. It moves around Shadesmar randomly, however, can be summoned by both Dalinar and [[Ishar]].{{book ref|sa3|119}}{{book ref|sa4|111|Ishar}} The Stormfather can feel when the perpendicularity is opened, except when done by Ishar.{{book ref|sa4|111}} The [[Fused]] also appear to be negatively affected by the perpendicularity.{{book ref|sa3|119}}
The size of it when opened can be controlled{{book ref|sa4|47}} and
When the perpendicularity is summoned, Shadesmar is visible to the summoner{{epigraph ref|sa3|5}} and certain individuals in their proximity,{{book ref|sa4|3}} although not everyone who is a passive witness
The perpendicularity forms during each
It is potentially possible to open Honor’s Perpendicularity at Urithiru, however, it requires strong magical abilities, and may not be possible if a [[Bondsmith]] is below
[[Cultivation's Perpendicularity]] resides in the [[Horneater Peaks]],{{book ref|sa2|46}} with clans of [[Unkalaki]] living on both sides of the portal.{{book ref|sa4|13}} Although it is a working waypoint between the realms, the Horneaters that guard the perpendicularity are not amenable to travelers, though some worldhoppers
As there are Physical Realm items that pass through Shadesmar, it is possible that some level of trade is allowed by the Horneater people, though they are selective of who can trade through the perpendicularity.{{book ref|sa4|13}} The [[Dawnshard]] is known to have arrived on [[Roshar]] through Cultivation's Perpendicularity.{{book ref|sa3.5|14}}
== History ==
=== Early History ===
Prior to the [[Recreance]], the [[spren]] and humans had a good relationship. The [[Order_of_Elsecallers|Elsecallers]] were the primary liaisons
Shortly before the Recreance, as the [[Sibling]] was retreating, they ordered the [[Oathgate]]s to be closed and locked so that people would no longer be able to transfer between realms.{{book ref|sa4|22}}{{book ref|sa3|116}} Losing this means of transportation, likely severely decreased the number of Rosharans accessing the realm, eventually leading to Shadesmar becoming a myth amongst the cultures who lived in [[Physical Realm]].{{book ref|sa2|prologue}}
At some point, the [[honorspren]] tried to take over Shadesmar, and warred with other spren groups, including the [[inkspren]].{{book ref|sa3|47}}{{book ref|sa3|99}}{{book ref|sa3|102}}{{book ref|sa4|20}}
=== Modern History ===
Following the escape of [[Syl]] from [[Lasting Integrity]],{{book ref|sa3|102}} posters of Syl were placed in some, if not all, port cities in Shadesmar by the honorspren in an attempt to have her found and returned to the
==== Jasnah’s Holiday ====
[[File:Jasnah_by_Audrey_Hotte.png|thumb|right|350px|Jasnah returning from Shadesmar by {{a|Audrey_Hotte}}]]
[[Jasnah]] first became aware of Shadesmar as a real place in 1167 when she was pulled through by [[Ivory]] when he attempted to kill her.{{book ref|sa2|prologue}} After bonding Ivory and becoming an Elsecaller, Jasnah began to research Shadesmar, along with [[Urithiru]] and the [[Voidbringers]].{{book ref|sa2|1}}
In 1173, Jasnah
Jasnah’s appearance in Shadesmar caused trouble for the spren, although it is unknown whether
After returning from the
Her experience of being trapped in the Cognitive Realm left Jasnah with
=== Azure’s Treasure Hunt ===
[[Azure]] first traveled to Shadesmar in 1173, in pursuit of [[Nightblood]] and [[Vasher]], and crossed into the Physical Realm using
Azure was one of the last humans to enter Lasting Integrity before it implemented its isolationist policy. She moved on approximately five months after her arrival.{{book ref|sa4|75}}{{book ref|sa4|78}}
=== Uh oh, Big Bad Alert ===
The [[Everstorm]] started building and approaching the planet Roshar’s subastral many generations before it was transferred to the Physical Realm.{{book ref|sa4|86}} Initially broken off from the storm that surrounds [[Braize]], Odium gradually moved it until it
The transition of the Everstorm
Travel and trade further decreased into 1175 with fewer ships willing to travel, lest they encounter Odium’s forces. They were further disincentivized to travel due to strange occurrences in [[Shinovar]], as well as a general preference against encountering
=== The Brady Bunch Adventure ===
Following their escape from the [[Kholinar Palace]] through the corrupted [[Oathgate]], [[Kaladin]], [[Shallan]], [[Adolin]], [[Azure]], along with the [[spren]] of the
Eventually, the travelers came upon
Kaladin, deeming Riino’s Lighthouse to be safe, returned to fetch the other members of his party
Once they reached Celebrant, the group split in half with some members going to the market place to gather supplies, while the rest enquired about potential passage to [[Thaylen City]] or Cultivation’s Perpendicularity. While at the marketplace, [[Syl]], who had been disguised, was
Once aboard, [[Notum]], the ship’s captain, began their voyage towards [[Lasting Integrity]], post-haste, to try and outrun the Fused. After being taken captive, most of the group, barring Syl, were released from captivity and allowed to explore most parts of Honor’s Path.{{book ref|sa3|108}} When it became apparent that the Fused were slowly gaining ground on the vessel, Notum decided to disobey his mandate and aided the friends in escaping to the
Having lost the Fused, the party made its way across the land in the direction of Thaylen City, following Kaladin’s hunch that [[Dalinar]] was in danger.{{book ref|sa3|110}} When they arrived, they found large numbers of Odium’s forces waiting.
Following the Battle of Thaylen Field, at least some of the Oathgates agreed to allow for passage between realms again.{{book ref|sa4|22}}
=== Electric Boogaloo: The Brady Bunch Adventures ===
[[File:Lasting_Integrity_Interior.jpeg|thumb|right|350px|Shallan and the honorspren in Lasting Integrity by {{a|Connor_Chamberlain}}]]
In 1175, a delegation from [[Urithiru]] headed by [[Adolin]] and [[Shallan]], set out to visit [[Lasting Integrity]] and try to convince the [[honorspren]] to
With an injured Notum in tow, the group pressed on quickly to reach Lasting Integrity, wary that the Tukari were still in the area and could circle back around to attack them again. Reaching the honorspren stronghold however, the group was not
While a number of the Urithiru party began the return journey to the tower, several members including [[Godeke]], [[Felt]] and [[Malli]], Shallan’s [[Order of Lightweavers|Lightweavers]], and Notum remained camped outside the keep, on the edge of the nearby forest, and remained in contact with the [[Alethi]] highprince via letter.{{book ref|sa4|75}}
Shallan, during her time in Lasting Integrity, set about completing the mission she was given by [[Mraize]] to find [[Restares]]. When Kalak returned to the keep, Shallan realized that the man she sought was a [[Herald]]. After speaking with Mraize, she discovered he wanted her to “kill” the Herald by capturing his soul in a knife containing Odium’s godmetal. The last day of Adolin’s trial, Shallan went to Kalak’s lodgings with the intent to kill him, having adopted her “new” persona of Formless. Pattern interrupted her on her way there, trying to introduce Shallan to [[Testament]], whom he had already tried to introduce once before. Shallan sent Pattern away, not wanting to hear what he had to say, before continuing on to Kalak’s house. Once inside, Veil confronted Shallan about Formless and forced her to remember what Shallan had done as a child when she had been bonded to Testament. Duty done, Veil disappeared, being reintegrated into Shallan. Kalak discovered Shallan in his house shortly after her ordeal, and although the Lightweaver acknowledge that she had been sent to kill Kalak, she had instead decided to try and work with him.{{book ref|sa4|93}}
[[Lusintia]], Sekeir, and several other honorspren found the pair not long after the Herald confronted Shallan, and accused the Lightweaver of trying to influence her husband’s trial. Despite Kalak’s denial, the honorspren took Shallan into custody, to be held until the trial was completed. The honorspren also detained Kalak, with Sekeir taking his place to oversee the final day of the court proceedings.{{book ref|sa4|93}}{{book ref|sa4|93}}
Held as the honorspren’s captive, Adolin prepared for his trial with the help of the [[inkspren]] emissary, [[Blended]]. After [[Kalak]], the High Judge, returned to the fortress from patrolling, the trial began and lasted for three days. On the first day, three witnesses - [[Amuna]], Blended, and Notum - gave testimony against Adolin. Notum, having clearly been coerced into testifying, broke from his script half way through his statement, to stand with Adolin and promote the bond between humans and spren. The second day of the trial Adolin was free to give his own testimony to the judge and audience, however, this quickly went sour and the day ended in chaos. The third day of trial was held by the honorspren [[Sekeir]], due to Kalak’s absence, and Maya was brought forth as the final witness. Due to her inability to speak, Sekeir used this as an opportunity to promote his own agenda under the guise he was speaking on her behalf. Drawing strength from Adolin, Maya addressed the crowd herself, proclaiming that the deadeyes had willingly chosen to give up their bonds during the Recreance. Shocked, the honorspren left the room and the trial was dismissed. Following the trial, Blended returned to the inkspren to spread the news about the role of spren in the Recreance and Maya’s growing consciousness.{{book ref|sa4|94}}
=== Guess Who’s Back, Back Again ===
At some point prior to 1175, the Ghostbloods began to set up trade routes in Shadesmar, including in the [[Sea of Lost Lights]]. Their intention was to set up a powerful trade empire with [[Stormlight]] and [[Investiture]] being their main commodity. They wished to find [[Urithiru]] before the Radiants so that they could seize control of the
[[Worldhoppers]] are common enough in Shadesmar that the true spren are aware of other planets, their inhabitants,{{book ref|sa4|24}} and will trade for their wares.{{book ref|sa3|102}}
Prior to the [[Recreance]], the spren created written treaties between their nations, some of which have survived.{{book ref|sa4|94}}
The different varieties of spren do not often mingle with each other. In mixed spren cities, each spren type will often only congregate with their own brethren unless they require a service rendered.{{book ref|sa3|102}}
Very few, if any, other types of spren think positively about [[honorspren]] or enjoy being in their company. This is in part due to their attempts to conquer Shadesmar in the past.{{book ref|sa3|47}}{{book ref|sa3|99}}{{book ref|sa3|102}} In turn, honorspren are not friendly towards most other types of spren; they have a negative political relationship with
Cryptics have a feared reputation in Shadesmar,{{book ref|sa2|3}} however, rarely venture outside of their city.{{book ref|sa4|26}} They are not well liked by other spren.{{book ref|sa4|26}} [[Cultivationspren]] are not very important politically,{{book ref|sa2.5|2}} however, those who
Humans and spren have a strained relationship due to the Recreance, which had a profound effect on spren societies, with many true spren being partially{{book ref|sa3|47}}{{book ref|sa4|87}} or almost completely wiped out.{{book ref|sa4|87}} The spren hold deep resentment for humans and while humans have gained back the trust of some groups through
The Radiants of [[Urithiru]] have attempted to open a diplomatic relationship with some of the more hostile spren, including the honorspren.{{book ref|sa4|30}} Following
[[File:The_Thaylen_Oathgate_by_Marie_Seeberger.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Our heroes approaching the Thaylen Oathgate, guarded by Odium's forces by {{a|Marie Seeberger}}]]
FIX THIS
{{quote
Ha!” she said. “You have been tricked, god! I am Hualinam’lunanaki’akilu, the daughter of Numuhukumakiaki’aialunamor, the Fal’ala’liki’nor, he who drew the Bow of Hours at the dawn of the new millennium, heralding the years of change! If you were to kill me, you would be violating the ancient pact of the Seven Peaks, and so must now forfeit the battle!”
Nikli blinked in what seemed like a very human show of utter confusion. “I . . . have no idea what any of that means,” he said.
“Well as I can be,” Rysn said. “Cord . . . I think they’re going to kill everyone to keep their secret.”
“They don’t seem to know about the ancient treaties,” Cord whispered. “And in truth, those treaties were made with other gods. I had hoped the Gods Who Sleep Not would be similarly bound, but now I am not certain.” She looked down. Dawnshard 18
}}
Since their arrival in Shadesmar, the [[Voidspren]] have spread their influence across the realm.{{book ref|sa3|108}}
There is a level of hostility between the [[honorspren]] and the [[Fused]].{{book ref|sa3|102}} The honorspren appear to be a big contender
The [[Ghostbloods]] are planning to commercialize [[Stormlight]] and create a monopoly, due to
== Culture and Society ==
==== True Spren Societies ====
True spren live in a number of cities and other settlements in Shadesmar. Some of these cities are inhabited and ruled by a single type of spren,{{book ref|sa2|3}}{{book ref|sa3|102}}{{book ref|
The longstanding presence of one type of spren in a given area, can affect the fundamental forces in that section of Shadesmar, and although this may mimic [[Surgebinding]], these environmental changes are caused by another mechanism.{{book ref|sa4|78}} Some spren choose to build their cities in particular parts of Shadesmar for specific reasons, that may be related to these realmatic changes, however, this is rare and the different spren types mostly choose areas where they can assert political control
The lack of water in Shadesmar, leads the spren to keep stores of sand in their cities in the case of fires.{{book ref|sa3|102}} They
Like many of the Physical Realm Rosharan societies, the true spren disapprove of fortune telling and claims of predicting the future. Any who practice this discipline are shunned
There is an spren festivity known as the [[Feast of Light]].{{book ref|sa3|101}}
==== Deadeyes ====
Although deadeyes physically live in Shadesmar, like with Radiant bonded spren, they can be pulled completely into the Physical Realm in the form of a [[Shardblade]]. Because Shardblades are their physical form, deadeyes are unable to be summoned as a blade in Shadesmar. They will, however, still respond if someone tries to summon them in the Cognitive Realm, stretching in an unnatural way towards the summoner.{{book ref|sa3|89}} This causes them distress and pain.{{book ref|sa3|89}}{{book ref|sa4|94}} As [[Shardplate]] is also the physical manifestation of spren in the Physical Realm,{{book ref|sa4|110}} it can also not be physically taken into Shadesmar.{{book ref|sa4|21}}{{book ref|sa4|22}}
Deadeyes are often placid, and
The [[honorspren]] of [[Lasting Integrity]] often find lost deadeyes in the barrens or the shallows of the ocean nearby their keep, and will bring them back to Lasting Integrity to take care of them.{{book ref|sa4|87}} The honorspren take their duty seriously and the deadeyes are treated well in their care. Although, despite their good intentions, the honorspren do have a habit of being dismissive of deadeyes.{{book ref|sa4|36}}{{book ref|sa4|30}}
==== Human Societies ====
Generally humans that visit Shadesmar are refugees, merchants, or explorers
{{quote
|The Peaks have a portal, Rysn. A gateway. A path to the world of gods and spren.” She met Rysn’s eyes. “Soon, everyone will know. And they will want our land. A portal to the land of spren is valuable enough to be worth the trip to the Peaks.”
“I . . .” Rysn trailed off. She wasn’t certain what to make of this. A portal to the land of the spren? She’d heard about Shadesmar; rumors of it were making their way through society. But if the Horneaters had a way into the place . . .
Dawnshard 14
}}
=== Travel ===
[[File:Shadesmar_Travel_by_LittleGreyDragon.jpeg|thumb|right|350px|A Boat Traveling Past [[Riino's lighthouse]] by {{a|LittleGreyDragon}}]]
==== Local Travel ====
Travel is largely conducted by [[Reachers]] and [[peakspren]], who can be hired for travel over both land and sea.{{book ref|sa3|99}}{{book ref|sa4|26}} They utilize [[mandras]] for sea travel in lieu of standard sailing equipment to offset the lack of wind in Shadesmar.{{book ref|sa3|97}} Multiple mandras have to be used at the same time on all ships, as these spren will occasionally be pulled into the [[Physical Realm]] and vanish -- a phenomenon known as "dropping."{{book ref|sa3|99}} Ships in Shadesmar move faster than an average ship in the Physical Realm, largely because they are not dependent on wind direction and can use the most efficient path to reach their destination.{{book ref|sa3|99}} Some ships will keep rations and a water making
Not all ships are equipped, or willing, to take on humans. Although dock registrar's will keep a list of all ships in port and their destinations, as well as which will take passengers, they do not keep records of which ships are human friendly, and humans looking for passage must visit each ship individually to
Land travel is conducted using established caravan routes. A large number of caravans can be commonly found on the southern edge of Shadesmar near the [[Expanse of Vibrance]] and it is not unusual for these caravans to include humans.{{book ref|sa4|29}}
==== Realmatic Travel ====
Travel between the
Communication between the Physical Realm and Shadesmar is slow moving and likely requires the physical delivery of information through traders and travelers.{{book ref|sa4|78}} Instantaneous communication methods such as spanreeds do not work across the
Due to the nature of the Cognitive Realm, it is possible to reach different worlds in the [[cosmere
=== Economy ===
==== Currency ====
[[Stormlight]] is the major currency of Shadesmar, however, due to its propensity to quickly fade, some cities have banks where infused gems can be exchanged for tokens.{{book ref|sa3|93}} The Stormlight is then transferred into [[perfect
==== Trade ====
[[Reachers]] and [[peakspren]] are commonly found as traders and sailors in Shadesmar, often transporting goods between the different port cities.{{book ref|sa3|99}}{{book ref|
Items that are imported from the [[Physical Realm]] are considered much more valuable than manifested items because they will not eventually disappear. However, these are much harder to obtain as they have to be brought through a perpendicularity or [[Oathgate]].{{book ref|sa4|29}} This has been historically unattainable since the [[Recreance]], as the Oathgates had been sealed and abandoned{{book ref|sa3|116}}{{book ref|sa4|22}} and the
As well as being the major currency, Stormlight is a valued commodity because it can be used to manifest objects from the Physical Realm. These objects can then be sold as wares by a merchant. The price set for an manifested item is reflective, not of the craftsmanship of the item,{{book ref|sa4|29}} but the length of time the object will last in Shadesmar before it disappears,{{book ref|Sa4|75
The demand for Stormlight as a commodity, both in Shadesmar and off-world, has led the [[Ghostbloods]] to attempt to set up a trade route that will transport the [[Investiture]] from the Physical Realm and through Shadesmar, using the Oathgates. They eventually plan to trade Stormlight on other planets, and although they are aware of how to transport the Investiture off of Roshar, they have run into issues
{{quote
|“Aluminum,” Lopen said, still floating above the deck a few feet. “Yeah, it’s weird stuff. Can block a Shardblade, Rua tells me, if it’s thick enough. They get it from Soulcasting, though only a few can make it, so it’s pretty rare.”
“Can get from trade,” Cord said. “In Peaks. We trade.”
“Trade?” Huio said. “Who trade?”
“He is strange metal,” Cord said. “Does strange things to spren.”
Dawnshard 7
}}
=== Food and Drink ===
True spren do not require food or water to survive,{{book ref|sa3|93}} however, they are able to consume [[Stormlight]]{{
Human rations are available for purchase in Shadesmar cities and are sometimes carried by spren sailors, even when they do not currently have human passengers.{{book ref|sa3|99}} Rations are most easily found in port cities which see a steady trade of the goods to help accommodate for humans that live in the area.{{book ref|sa3|93}} Tinned food is commonly found in Shadesmar, and may originate from [[Scadrial]] due to their canning processes.{{book ref|sa3|97}}{{book ref|sa3|102}}{{wob ref|8650}}{{wob ref|10807}} Water can be created using a [[hydrator]]; these devices are carried on ships in the case that humans are granted passage by the captain.{{book ref|sa3|99}}
=== Leisure Activities ===
==== Gardening ====
[[File:Wyndle.jpg|thumb|right|350|Wyndle gardening by {{a|Bonnie Johnson}}]]
Gardening appears to be an art form in Shadesmar, that is enjoyed particularly by [[cultivationspren]]. It differs from Physical Realm gardening, with the cultivation of plants being considered mundane and pedestrian. Instead, Shadesmar gardening involves growing items out of crystals, based on the souls of objects, though this method is distinctly different from manifesting souls. Cultivationspren are known to create gardens of chairs. Like with Physical Realm artwork, these garden creations are put on display in exhibitions where they can be viewed by other spren.{{book ref|sa2.5|1}}
=== Clothing ===
Clothing in Shadesmar is either created as part of a spren’s essence, or is manifested from the Physical Realm.{{book ref|sa4|30}} Spren do not follow any of the fashion trends seen on Roshar, and will instead mix and match clothing from a variety of Rosharan cultures in ways that would be considered bizarre or unseemly
[[Honorspren]] in particular have a propensity towards military dress,{{book ref|sa4|36}} although some in the younger generation tend towards flowing garments instead.{{book ref|sa4|87}}
=== Languages ===
Like humans, spren speak a multitude of different languages and the ability to speak multiple languages, spren or human, varies between individuals.{{book ref|sa2|60}}{{book ref|sa3|102}} These languages must be learned and are not inherently known.{{book ref|sa4|26}} Most spren are able to speak human languages.{{book ref|sa4|21}}
There appears to be some languages that are specific for different types of spren.{{book ref|sa3|108}}{{book ref|sa4|26}} Not all languages are
=== Religion ===
==== Mythology ====
Following the [[Recreance
Shadesmar is still believed to be real by at least some inhabitants of Roshar, prior to its "re-discovery" in 1174. [[Jasnah Kholin]] has written about the realm in some of her earlier scholarly works,{{book ref|sa2|3}} and at least some in the [[ardentia]] are aware that Shadesmar is a real place.{{book ref|sa1|i|8}}
=== Magic ===
[[File:Elsecaller.png|thumb|right|250px| Jasnah Elsecalling Shadesmar beads by {{a|LittleGreyDragon}}]]
Some species and people have a more natural ability to view the Cognitive Realm. [[Singers]] can commonly see some level of Shadesmar, which usually equates to seeing the entirety of a [[spren]]’s physical appearance,{{book ref|sa4|48)}} while humans rarely can see the other realm.{{book ref|sa4|i|5}} Some [[Horneater]]s also have the ability to see spren that are invisible to others,{{book ref|sa3.5|9}} though it is unclear if this is related to their singer ancestry, or their interactions with [[Cultivation's Perpendicularity]]. [[Cultivation]] has the power to permanently move someone more into the Cognitive than they normally would be, which can allow them to physical touch spren that are not manifested.{{book ref|sa2.5|4}}
==== Surgebinding ====
All
During times where the realms are closer, or combined, it is easier to access Shadesmar and
Elsecalling to Shadesmar requires a large amount of Stormlight, and it is harder when moving from the Cognitive to the Physical, than the other way around.{{book ref|sa3|33}}{{wob ref|5758}} Although it is possible to leave the Cognitive from any point,{{wob ref|13196}} those who are less experience with using [[Surgebinding#Transportation|Transportation]], require a transfer point, where the Physical and Cognitive Realms are closer together, to be able to make the journey.{{book ref|sa3|33}}
== Development ==
Shadesmar was loosely inspired by a painting by {{a|Michael Whelan}} that Brandon saw as a
== Trivia ==
*[[Expanse of Vibrance]]: This expanse's name was hidden behind the Shadesmar's map's title.{{wob ref|4805}} It is believed to be Nalthis.
* An uncanonical scene from [[Words of Radiance]] was released in 2014 about [[Jasnah]] transitioning to Shadesmar from the ''[[Wind's Pleasure]]'' when it was attacked.{{wob ref |12304}} It was excluded from the book so as to not lessen the epilogue reveal that Jasnah survived.{{wob ref|4576}}
* Although Brandon plans to use Shadesmar more widely in the cosmere, there may shift to being ‘Cognitive Realm’ as Brandon reaches Era 4 so that a more scientific term is being used.{{wob ref|10305}}
* There is a specific reason that the Rosharan subastral is full of spheres.{{wob ref|2742}}
* The idea of Shadesmar can be tied back to Brandon’s love of Tel’aran’rhiod from the Wheel of Time and some ideas from ancient Green philosophy.{{wob ref|12616}}
== Notes ==
https://littlegreydragon.tumblr.com/post/632048777097773056/day-15-tower-inktober-cosmereinktober2020
https://littlegreydragon.tumblr.com/post/631415033589547008/day-7-crystal-heres-the-one-i-didnt-manage-to
Quotes
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