chefflavourtown

Agreed! I love the entity idea, although I completely understand how Sazed cannot fit into the picture at this stage, as well as the main cast workshopping so quickly in one book. But pretty cool what it was able to do off the cuff like that!

So, I've been following 17th Shard for years (and listen to the podcast every episode). I'm also a massive Cosmere nerd, so I'm hoping I'll fit in here, haha. Out of interest, I asked Chat GPT to write an outline for Stormlight Book 5, taking into account all current Cosmere lore, and the backstory for Books 1-4. I'd love to hear people's thoughts here - imagine if the AI has correctly predicted some of the following? (At the same time, it is a very simplistic overview, and probably means the book itself has a fair chance of including some of these plot points because they're natural choices for tying things up). Here it is: Here's a high-level outline for a sequel to "Rhythm of War," keeping in mind the current Cosmere lore: Title: Harmony's Ascendance Part I: Unraveling Threads Prologue: A scene depicting the aftermath of the events in "Rhythm of War." The world is still recovering from the battle against Odium's forces. Rebuilding the Knights Radiant: Dalinar and the leaders of Roshar work to rebuild the Knights Radiant, focusing on finding new Radiants and training them. Kaladin, Shallan, and Jasnah take on mentor roles. Heralds' Struggle: The Heralds are grappling with their newfound freedom from Damnation. Some embrace it, while others struggle with guilt and purpose. A New Threat: Strange disturbances in the Cognitive Realm signal the awakening of a forgotten entity. It threatens to disrupt the balance of power on Roshar and beyond. Part II: Across the Cosmere Interplanetary Intrigue: Jasnah discovers that the entity's awakening is affecting other planets in the Cosmere as well. She travels to other Shardworlds, seeking information and allies. Worldhopping Adventures: Kaladin, Shallan, Adolin, and Lift join Jasnah on her journey, encountering unique cultures, magic systems, and challenges on various planets. Unraveling Secrets: On another planet, they meet a mysterious figure who reveals that the entity is connected to the Shattering of Adonalsium and a new force that threatens all of existence. Part III: Gathering Storms New Radiant Orders: As Radiants from different planets unite, they discover new Orders of the Knights Radiant that draw power from the unique Investitures of their worlds. Heralds Reunited: The Heralds, each dealing with their individual struggles, are forced to come together once again to combat the entity. Their bonds are tested. Crossing Realms: The entity's goal is to break down the barriers between realms and reshape the Cosmere according to its vision. Our heroes must find a way to stop it. Part IV: Ascendance Shards Unite: Our heroes learn that the entity is a rogue Shard that desires to reunite the Shards of Adonalsium to regain its full power. They must race against time to stop it. Harmony's Decision: Sazed, the Vessel of Harmony, recognizes the threat and steps in to aid the heroes. He reveals hidden knowledge about Adonalsium and the nature of Shards. Final Confrontation: A climactic battle unfolds across the Cognitive, Physical, and Spiritual Realms. Radiants, Heralds, and even minor characters from different worlds come together to fight. Part V: New Rhythms Aftermath: The entity is defeated, but not without sacrifices. The heroes return to their respective worlds, forever changed by their experiences. Harmony's Reformation: Sazed realizes the necessity of change in the Cosmere. He takes steps to reform the Shardic system, allowing more interaction between Shards and Vessels. Epilogue: A glimpse into the future of the Cosmere, where worlds are interconnected, Radiants travel between planets, and new threats and challenges arise. Note: This outline is a general framework and doesn't account for all the subplots, character development, and intricate world-building that Brandon Sanderson is known for. Feel free to adapt and expand upon these ideas to create your own unique sequel that stays true to the Cosmere lore and the spirit of the original series.