Rhulad Sengar is a character as complex as he is tragic in Steven Erikson's "Malazan Book of the Fallen." His transformation from a young and proud Tiste Edur warrior to the Emperor of a Thousand Deaths is a heart-wrenching journey filled with ambition, suffering, and endless battles.
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| Rhulad Sengar by Coalhands, Deviant Art |
Born into the Tiste Edur, a race of shadowy elves in the Malazan universe, Rhulad's youth is characterized by his relationship with his older brothers and his longing to prove himself as a warrior.
Who are Rhulad's Sengar's brothers?
Fear Sengar (eldest brother, skilled warrior), Trull Sengar (a main character in the series, known for his dissenting views and moral compass), and Binadas Sengar (a mage).
What books is Rhulad Sengar featured in?
Rhulad Sengar is introduced in Midnight Tides (Book 5), and his character arc continues in Reaper's Gale (Book 7).
Rhulad's path takes a dark turn in "Midnight Tides," the fifth book in the series. Picking up a cursed sword, he finds himself bound to it.
"The sword chose me, brother. You must understand that. It chose me." - Rhulad Sengar, "Midnight Tides"
The sword resurrects him each time he dies, a process filled with unimaginable agony.
(Major Spoilers Ahead)
The sword grants Rhulad power, but at the cost of his sanity. He becomes the Emperor of the Tiste Edur but finds himself driven to prove his might continually. One of the most striking aspects of Rhulad's curse is his compulsion to battle. Key battles with figures such as Iron Bars, a Crimson Guardsman, and his conflict with Seren Pedac and the group accompanying her, highlight Rhulad's torment and growing instability. His pain in defeat, his desperation in victory, and his unending resurrection make these battles not only physical conflicts but reflections of his internal struggle.
This hunger for battle and the arena where he fights warriors from across the world serve as a symbolic stage for his relentless and tragic pursuit of validation. It's a vivid and unique concept that played a major role in inspiring THE ARENA project. (Along of course, with Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion)
Rhulad's journey isn't merely about power. It's a profound exploration of human longing, isolation, and loss.
"It's lonely, Fear, being such as I am. This gold. Cursed or not, it isolates me. Can't you understand that?" - Rhulad Sengar, "Reaper's Gale"
Rhulad's story reaches its conclusion in "Reaper's Gale." His end is both tragic and a release from his torment. The resolution is fitting yet somber, reflecting the complexity of his character.
Rhulad Sengar's character provides an intricate examination of power, ambition, familial dynamics, and existential crises. His battles, his torment, and his endless struggle are not merely plot devices but deeply symbolic representations of universal human experiences.
"Life is not fair, young emperor, nor is it just. These are facts you have now learned." - Kuru Qan to Rhulad, "Midnight Tides"
Through the arena's unending battles, Rhulad's character extends beyond the pages of fiction and into the real world, leaving an indelible mark on modern fantasy literature. His story is a timeless lesson that resonates deeply, offering a complex and enduring reflection on the human condition.
Rhulad Sengar's Raw Power
Rhulad Sengar's "Raw Power," encompasses his physical strength, magical abilities, and combat prowess. In Steven Erikson's "Malazan Book of the Fallen," Rhulad's power is both compelling and unnerving.
The origin of Rhulad's raw power lies in the cursed sword he comes into possession of in "Midnight Tides." This sword grants him immense physical strength and the harrowing ability to resurrect after death. Each resurrection enhances his strength but torments him with unimaginable pain, adding to his ferocity and combat skill.
The sword transforms Rhulad from a young and eager Tiste Edur warrior into an almost invincible force, feared and revered. His battles with powerful opponents such as Iron Bars demonstrate his raw power, as he continually overcomes enemies through sheer strength and the sword's magical properties.
Rhulad's raw power also manifests in his duels within his arena, where he invites warriors from across the world to challenge him. His ceaseless hunger for battle, combined with his strength and resilience, defines his reign as Emperor.
Given the breadth of fantasy literature, Rhulad's raw power is considerable, even among the pantheon of powerful beings across all fantasy universes. Considering this immense strength and the mystical properties of his sword, the rating of 9 appears fitting.
However, it's essential to note that Rhulad's power is not entirely his own but rather the result of the cursed sword. His skills without the sword might not reach the same heights. Therefore, while the sword's abilities align with the definition of raw power, they are also a confinement that limits Rhulad's freedom and sanity.
In conclusion, Rhulad Sengar's raw power is a profound aspect of his character, shaping his path and defining his tragic existence. Rating him at 9 out of 10 acknowledges his might within the "Malazan Book of the Fallen" and across the broader spectrum of fantasy literature, maintaining the integrity of the previously assigned rating. His power, both terrifying and pitiable, resonates through his battles and the world around him, making him a standout figure in the realm of fantasy.
Rhulad Sengar's Tactical Ability
Rhulad Sengar's "Tactical Ability," refers to his capacity to strategize, plan, and execute in conflict situations. Within the "Malazan Book of the Fallen," Rhulad's character is a complex and multi-dimensional one, but his prowess in tactical thinking is often overshadowed by his raw power and the curse of the sword.
A significant aspect of Rhulad's character is his impulsive nature and the torment he endures due to the sword's curse. These factors tend to cloud his judgment, making his decisions rash and often strategically unsound.
"I am what I am because of this sword, and I can never be anything else." - Rhulad Sengar, "Midnight Tides"
He does exhibit moments of strategic thinking, such as when he establishes himself as Emperor and uses the arena to challenge and subdue potential rivals. However, these instances are often tainted by his obsession with the sword, his inner turmoil, and his desperation to prove himself.
Rhulad's tactical ability also suffers because of his dependence on the sword. His primary strategy in combat often revolves around the sheer brute force granted by the sword, rather than clever maneuvering or thoughtful planning.
Comparing Rhulad's tactical ability to characters across all fantasy universes, his limitations become more apparent. Many characters in the broad spectrum of fantasy literature display complex strategic thinking, adapting to situations and manipulating outcomes. Rhulad's abilities in this regard are relatively limited.
Given this analysis, the original rating of 3 seems appropriate for Rhulad's tactical ability. While he does show glimpses of strategic thinking, they are far outweighed by his impulsiveness, emotional distress, and over-reliance on raw power. This maintains the previous rating of 3 and is justified by the evidence from the texts.
In sum, Rhulad Sengar's tactical ability is a nuanced but ultimately lacking aspect of his character. It serves to highlight the tragedy of his existence and the overpowering influence of the cursed sword, rather than showcasing a skilled tactician. His strategic shortcomings are a vital part of his character arc and contribute to the complexity of his portrayal within the rich tapestry of the "Malazan Book of the Fallen."
Rhulad Sengar's Influence
Rhulad Sengar's "Influence" is a nuanced trait within the "Malazan Book of the Fallen." This ability refers to his capability to sway others through charisma, leadership, manipulation, or other means.
As the Emperor of the Tiste Edur, Rhulad holds a position of great authority. However, his influence is often overshadowed by his erratic behavior and the torment inflicted by his cursed sword. He rules through fear and power rather than charisma or true leadership.
"Every victory I taste is ashes in my mouth. Every triumph is a lie." - Rhulad Sengar, "Reaper's Gale"
Rhulad's influence is significantly limited by his internal struggle. He desperately attempts to exert control over those around him but often fails to inspire loyalty or respect. His command is characterized by fear and submission rather than admiration or allegiance. The cursed sword that grants him power also traps him in an endless cycle of death and resurrection, further isolating him from those he might influence.
His attempts at persuasion are often marked by desperation rather than calculation. While he does manage to manipulate certain situations to his advantage, his methods are often brutish and forceful rather than subtle or charismatic.
"I will not be cast down. You shall not abandon me." - Rhulad Sengar, "Reaper's Gale"
In comparison to other characters across the realm of fantasy, Rhulad's influence is relatively weak. Many characters exhibit the ability to sway whole nations through charisma, eloquence, or astute manipulation. Rhulad's influence is more localized and constrained by his internal torment and dependency on the sword.
Thus, the original rating of 4 for Rhulad's influence appears fitting. He wields some power and can manipulate those around him to a degree, but his influence is often undermined by his emotional turmoil and the dark nature of his strength. The rating reflects these complexities and aligns with his portrayal within the text.
Rhulad Sengar's influence is a tragic aspect of his character, hindered by his curse and inner demons. It paints a vivid picture of a powerful figure who is ultimately unable to fully command the respect or loyalty of those around him, symbolizing his broader struggle with power and identity.
Rhulad Sengar's Resilience
Rhulad Sengar's resilience is an intricate part of his character in the "Malazan Book of the Fallen" series. Cursed with a sword that brings him back to life each time he dies, he experiences an endless cycle of death and resurrection.
"Dying is but a moment's discomfort. Resurrection ... that is something else indeed." - Rhulad Sengar, "Midnight Tides"
This ability to come back to life can be seen as a form of resilience. Yet, it's not a resilience that Rhulad actively exerts; rather, it's forced upon him. The physical pain of resurrection and the psychological trauma that accompanies it take a toll on his mental state.
"I am so cold. Will you not warm me?" - Rhulad Sengar, "Reaper's Gale"
His mental fortitude is worn down by the continuous cycle, and his ability to recover becomes weaker over time. He becomes more and more detached, and his grip on reality wanes. His resilience, in terms of mental and emotional recovery, seems to diminish rather than strengthen.
Furthermore, Rhulad's resilience doesn't necessarily translate into an ability to adapt and overcome challenges. It is a forced condition rather than an internal strength or skill.
He does not bounce back stronger from each defeat but instead becomes more tormented and weakened. Compared to other fantasy characters who might grow and learn from setbacks, Rhulad's resilience is somewhat static and ultimately tragic.
Thus, retaining the original rating of 5 accurately reflects Rhulad's complex and ambiguous resilience, acknowledging both the extraordinary nature of his constant resurrections and the limits of his ability to recover and adapt.
Rhulad Sengar's Versatility
Versatility, in terms of Rhulad Sengar's character within the "Malazan Book of the Fallen" series, is quite complex. In analyzing his versatility, we must consider how well Rhulad can adapt to different situations or challenges, and whether he has a variety of powers or skills to draw upon.
At first glance, Rhulad seems to have a limited set of abilities. Bound to the Crippled God's cursed sword, his powers are defined largely by this weapon, which grants him strength but also subjects him to continuous resurrection and torment.
"The sword tells me what I must do. I cannot resist it. There is no escape for me." - Rhulad Sengar, "Reaper's Gale"
His reliance on the sword can be seen as a lack of versatility. Rather than drawing upon various skills or powers, Rhulad becomes somewhat one-dimensional in his approach to conflicts. His combat style, decisions, and even his status within the Tiste Edur society are tightly bound to the cursed sword.
Rhulad's inability to adapt is further demonstrated by his growing instability and inability to effectively rule. His actions become increasingly erratic and disconnected from the needs and expectations of those around him.
However, a different perspective might highlight Rhulad's versatility in enduring the psychological and physical torment he undergoes. His ability to keep fighting and living, despite his suffering, could be seen as a form of adaptation, albeit a painful and tragic one.
Given these contrasting aspects, a rating of 4 seems fair. Rhulad is not a character with a wide array of adaptable skills or powers. His ability to handle different challenges is limited, and his actions are guided largely by the sword's influence.
Yet, there is a level of versatility in his endurance and his complex, tragic journey. It's not the kind of versatility that often translates into success or growth but rather a grim persistence that defines his character.
Rhulad's versatility is limited, characterized more by his struggles and limitations than by adaptability or breadth of abilities. The rating of 4 accurately captures this complexity, reflecting a character who is versatile in some senses but ultimately constrained by his unique and burdensome powers.
Rhulad Sengar's Alignment
Rhulad Sengar, a character from Steven Erikson's "Malazan Book of the Fallen" series, is a complex figure defined by his connection to a cursed sword that grants him power but also condemns him to endless resurrection and torment. Throughout his story, Rhulad struggles with his growing instability and inability to effectively lead, constrained by the sword's influence and his personal anguish.
Rhulad's actions are guided more by personal emotions and the will of the sword rather than a code of laws or principles. His leadership is erratic, and his choices often defy conventional logic or moral standards. He's driven by a chaotic force that continually resurrects him, even against his will. In terms of morality, Rhulad's character is neither inherently good nor evil. He's a tragic figure caught in circumstances beyond his control. His actions might lead to harm, but his intent is not malicious. The sword's curse forces him into paths that neither align with a sense of universal good nor with malevolence.
Rhulad's alignment of Chaotic Neutral captures the unpredictability of his actions and decisions, influenced by an otherworldly power, and his ambiguous moral standing. His story is a tragic tale of a character caught in a whirlwind of forces beyond his control, struggling to find his place and enduring unimaginable torment. The complex interplay between chaos and neutrality in his alignment paints a vivid picture of a character driven by both internal and external turmoil. Pride and Prophecy keeps an updated character alignment matrix across all planes of existence.
Rhulad's Trophy Case
PPET Rankings
| Season | Rank |
|---|---|
| 1 (2023-2024) | #101 (of 107) |
Overall Conclusion on Rhulad Sengar and Position Across Plane of Existence
Rhulad Sengar's ranking at a 5 in the vast realm of fantasy characters is a nuanced assessment that considers various attributes, not merely his god-like power at his peak.
With the cursed sword's resurrection capability, Rhulad gains incredible strength and near-immortality. He could challenge almost any foe and emerge victorious, either through his own power or through relentless resurrection. Rhulad's tactics are often driven by the sword's influence rather than strategic thinking. This has resulted in uncalculated and erratic decisions, hindering his effectiveness in planning and execution. His influence, while considerable within his immediate sphere, is limited by his growing madness and inability to form lasting connections or alliances. He has power but struggles to lead or inspire loyalty. Though physically resilient due to constant resurrection, Rhulad's mental and emotional state deteriorates. His inability to recover fully from defeats or setbacks, particularly on a psychological level, is a significant weakness. Rhulad's skills and abilities, while potent, lack versatility. The sword dictates his path, limiting his ability to adapt or use a variety of skills or powers.
His Chaotic Neutral alignment adds complexity to his character but also contributes to his unpredictability and lack of coherent moral or ethical compass.
The aggregate ranking reflects a character of tremendous potential who is, unfortunately, trapped by his own powers and the cursed sword's influence. In the grand scheme of all fantasy universes, this makes Rhulad an average character. While he possesses immense power, it's counterbalanced by significant weaknesses, particularly in tactical thinking, versatility, and resilience.
Rhulad's character is symbolic of the tragic hero, consumed by power, yet shackled by it. He represents a compelling exploration of power's corrupting influence and the torturous path of those who wield it without understanding or control.
His place across planes of existence resonates with the existential struggle of characters who are both blessed and cursed, powerful yet broken. His story is a cautionary tale about the cost of unchecked power and the internal chaos that can accompany it.
In the context of other fantasy universes, Rhulad's combination of strengths and weaknesses positions him as a character of considerable interest but not necessarily dominance. The balance of attributes provides a richer, more multifaceted understanding of his character, one that transcends mere power levels and delves into the complexity of his psyche and existence. Pride and Prophecy keeps an updated power ranking across all planes of existence. This will only be sortable on desktop viewing. The below table shows a summary within the same plane of existence of this article.
Midnight Tides is my favorite book in the series
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