Character from The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson
Kaladin's father and a skilled surgeon in Hearthstone. A committed pacifist whose moral opposition to violence creates deep tension with Kaladin's role as a warrior and protector.
Lirin is the surgeon of Hearthstone and Kaladin's father. He trained Kaladin in medicine from a young age, hoping his son would follow him into the healing arts. When Kaladin instead became a soldier, it broke something between them — a rift that deepens throughout the series. Lirin's pacifism is absolute and principled. He believes that killing is never justified, even in defense of others, and that a surgeon's duty is to heal all who come to him regardless of which side they serve. This puts him in direct conflict with Kaladin, who kills to protect the innocent. Their conflict reaches its peak during the Singer occupation of Hearthstone, where Lirin cooperates with the occupiers as a healer while Kaladin fights them. Neither father nor son is entirely wrong, and their inability to understand each other's position is one of the series' most painful relationships.
Lean, weathered Alethi man with surgeon's hands — steady and precise. Graying dark hair, tired but kind eyes. Wears simple darkeyed clothing, often with a surgeon's apron. His posture carries quiet dignity.
Also known as: Lirin