Shallan

Shallan is a prominent character in Brandon Sanderson's epic fantasy series, The Stormlight Archive. She is one of the central protagonists, introduced as a young noblewoman from a troubled past. Shallan is known for her sharp intellect, her artistic talents, and her ability to adopt multiple personas. This adaptability stems from a traumatic childhood and a deep-seated need to protect herself.

Initially, Shallan travels to the Shattered Plains under the guise of a scholar, seeking to steal a Soulcaster from the scholar Jasnah Kholin. Her true motivations are tied to avenging her family and uncovering secrets about her past. Throughout the series, Shallan develops into a skilled spy and warrior, capable of wielding Surgebinding abilities. Her specific Surgebinding powers involve manipulation of light and illusion, which she uses to great effect in her missions and personal struggles.

Shallan grapples with significant mental health challenges, including dissociative identity disorder. Her different personas, such as "Veil" and "Radiant," represent various aspects of her personality and coping mechanisms. Her journey is one of self-discovery, healing, and confronting the darkness within herself and the world around her. She forms complex relationships, particularly with fellow protagonist Kaladin Stormblessed, and plays a crucial role in the ongoing war against the Voidbringers.