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Marsh HOA

This is an image of a Steel Inquisitor, possibly Marsh, by inkthinker

Introduction[]

Marsh is a pivotal character in Brandon Sanderson's Mistborn series, known for his complex journey from a dedicated Seeker to a conflicted Steel Inquisitor, and later to a figure intertwined with the forces of Preservation and Ruin.

Early Life and Rebellion[]

Marsh was born as the brother of Kelsier to a Skaa mother and a Noble father. When Marsh's father discovered the truth of their parentage, he had their mother executed by obligators and attempted to do the same to the brothers, who fled. This gave Marsh a hatred of obligators comparable to Kelsier's hatred of the nobility, and led to him joining the Skaa Rebellion.

A New Path[]

During the Skaa Rebellion, Marsh became a central figure and briefly led the movement. Recognizing the futility of the rebellion's efforts, he ultimately handed control to Yeden, a Skaa rebel leader. Marsh's focus shifted to a more covert role, supporting his brother Kelsier's plan to overthrow the oppressive regime.

Steel Inquisitor and Defeat of the Lord Ruler[]

Marsh's life took a dark turn when he was transformed into a Steel Inquisitor by the Steel Ministry. This transformation left him physically and mentally scarred, making him a formidable adversary with powers granted by Hemalurgy. However, his loyalty remained divided, and he secretly aided Kelsier and Vin in their mission to overthrow the Lord Ruler.

After the fall of the Final Empire and the death of Kelsier, Marsh played a vital role in ending the Lord Ruler's reign. He eliminated other Steel Inquisitors and saved Vin's life during her confrontation with the Lord Ruler, ensuring the ruler's downfall.

Corrupted by Ruin[]

In subsequent books, Marsh's life became entangled with the forces of Ruin and Preservation. He fell under the insidious influence of Ruin, becoming a puppet of the dark force. This control pushed Marsh to resist his brother's influence and align himself with the destructive aspects of Ruin.

The Battle for Vin's Fate[]

As the battle between Ruin and Preservation escalated, Marsh found himself struggling against the consuming power of Ruin. He played a crucial role in Vin's journey to assume the mantle of Preservation, resisting Ruin's control at a pivotal moment and helping Vin access the power needed to counteract Ruin's influence.

The Alloy of Law[]

In the later events of the Mistborn series, specifically in The Alloy of Law, Marsh's legacy continued to resonate. Over three centuries after the events of the original trilogy, Marsh's impact still lingered. The Steel Inquisitors had faded into obscurity, but Marsh's presence was symbolized by a man known as "Ironeyes," who represented the embodiment of death.

Legacy and Influence[]

Marsh's legacy remained potent throughout the years, and his story became intertwined with the ongoing battle between Preservation and Ruin. His transformation into an Inquisitor and his subsequent struggle against Ruin's control left an indelible mark on the history of Scadrial, shaping the world's future.

Personal Traits and Relationships[]

Marsh was known for his seriousness and dedication, influenced by the events that shaped his life. His conflicted relationship with his brother Kelsier and his unrequited love for Mare further shaped his personality. Marsh's journey from a dedicated Seeker to a Steel Inquisitor and eventually to a figure caught between the forces of Preservation and Ruin showcased his internal struggles and complexities.

Current Status and Influence[]

Marsh's fate and legacy after the events of the Mistborn trilogy remain subjects of curiosity and speculation among fans of the series. While Brandon Sanderson hasn't provided an exhaustive account of Marsh's later years, there are significant hints and details that shed light on his continued existence and his unique connection to Scadrial's magic systems.

In the Mistborn universe, Marsh's survival 300 years after the initial trilogy is revealed in The Alloy of Law. Through his mastery of Feruchemy, Allomancy, and Hemalurgy, Marsh's life was extended, albeit with a catch. His existence is sustained by the consumption of Atium, a powerful god metal associated with Ruin. Atium allows him to continue living well beyond the natural lifespan of a human, but it's also a constant reminder of the lingering influence of Ruin within him.

Marsh's transformation into a Steel Inquisitor through Hemalurgy granted him the power of Allomancy and Feruchemy. Hemalurgy involves transferring powers from one individual to another by using metallic spikes, usually at the cost of the donor's life. While most Hemalurgic creations are driven by destructive intent, Marsh's unique situation hints at a more intricate use of Hemalurgy to achieve longevity and preserve his consciousness.

As "Ironeyes," Marsh's presence has become a legend, a symbol of death and enigma within Scadrial's society. His reputation is intertwined with the mysterious figure that represents death itself, a reminder of his past as a Steel Inquisitor and his subsequent battle against Ruin's control. It's intriguing to consider the impact of his continued existence on the world, especially with his combination of Allomantic and Feruchemical abilities.

Despite his survival, Marsh's existence is undoubtedly marked by conflict and internal struggle. His reliance on atium is a constant reminder of his connection to Ruin and the delicate balance he must maintain to avoid succumbing to the dark force's influence once again. This complex dynamic adds depth to his character, showcasing his resilience and the sacrifices he made to retain his autonomy.

In the broader context of the Mistborn universe, Marsh's story is a testament to the enduring repercussions of past events. His journey from a Seeker to a Steel Inquisitor and finally to "Ironeyes" paints a portrait of a character whose life is entwined with the very fabric of Scadrial's history. Marsh's legacy endures as a cautionary tale, a symbol of the ongoing struggle between Preservation and Ruin, and a reminder of the complex interplay between power and identity.

As Brandon Sanderson continues to expand the Cosmere universe through various novels and novellas, there remains the potential for further exploration of Marsh's character, his continued evolution, and his influence on Scadrial's future.

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