The Desolation

Lore & Background

The Desolations are a cyclical series of apocalyptic conflicts on Roshar, driven by the Shard Odium's war against Honor and Cultivation. They are not mentioned or referenced in Warbreaker, and Vasher—a character from Nalthis—has no canonical connection to these events. While both Nalthian Awakening and Rosharan Surgebinding originate from Adonalsium, there is no established link between the Desolations and the Investiture systems of Warbreaker. The God Kings of Hallandren are local rulers with no involvement in Rosharan divine struggles.

In Their Own Story

Vivenna sat upon her throne, the golden light of Nalthis dimming as twilight approached. She did not look like the smiling goddess of Hallandren anymore; she looked old, burdened by memories of storms that were not wind, but war. Vasher stood in the shadows, knowing better than to speak. He knew the cost of her presence here was paid in a currency he could not count. The Desolation had ended on Roshar, but its echoes lingered in every Breath she gave.

Reader's Guide

The Desolation is not something a character can wield or carry like a sword; it is a historical and metaphysical condition affecting the Cosmere. It functions as a cycle of conflict between Odium and Honor. In Warbreaker, it serves as backstory for Vivenna's true identity rather than an active plot device on Nalthis. No one wields The Desolation directly. Instead, characters like Vasher or Vivenna are influenced by the aftermath of these events. Understanding this concept requires knowledge beyond Hallandren, linking to the broader Shardic wars.

Did You Know?

• The Desolations are periods where Odium attempts to destroy Honor's and Cultivation's influence on Roshar, but they are not referenced in Warbreaker.
• Vasher is not a historical figure who witnessed the Desolations or the Shards' struggles; his backstory is entirely separate from Rosharan conflicts.
• BioChromatic Breath and Surges share a common origin in Adonalsium, but there is no canonical link between these systems and the Desolations.
• There is no character named Vivenna who is the Almighty or Honor; these are distinct entities within Cosmere canon.