What if the Shattering wasn't an assassination, but a consensual "System Reset" where Adonalsium is using the current Shardic conflicts to "filter" its power through a new Vessel—specifically one holding a combination of Shards that creates "Retribution"—before ultimately reforming itself?
The Evidence
The Nohadon "Trojan Horse": The version of Nohadon we see in Wind and Truth feels more like a direct manifestation of the "Will of the Universe" than a standard Cognitive Shadow. Is this "Adonalsium’s Will" grooming Dalinar to become the "Magnet" that pulls the Shards back together?
The "Retribution" Intent: Many speculate on the "Honor + Odium" combination. If the result is Retribution, that Shard’s literal purpose would be to hunt and punish the original 16 Vessels, effectively acting as a "clean-up crew" to reclaim the scattered pieces of Adonalsium.
The "Monster" Filter: The theory suggests that as a Vessel (like Dalinar) collects these conflicting Shards, the internal friction will turn them into a "Monster" in their own eyes. This psychological breaking point forces the Vessel to "descend" (surrender their ego), allowing the human element to fall away so the divine power can unify into a reformed Adonalsium.
The Wheel of Time Parallel: Brandon has already written a "God-Cycle" where the Hero (The Dragon) must become a "Monster" to save the world, eventually surrendering his god-like power to restore the status quo. Is he mirroring this "Circular Narrative" for the Cosmere’s endgame?
Hoid’s Motivations: This explains Hoid’s fear. He isn't just stopping Odium; he’s trying to prevent the "Reformation." He wants to keep the universe "Shattered" because a unified Adonalsium means the end of mortal agency.
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