The Bringers of Dawn

by Zannerson

Once, a star fell near the island of the Torrentine river's, Empowering the house of Dayne with the Sword of the Morning. Now another one has come, and it will bring more than just Steel and Power. The line of Dayne will enter a world greater than they ever knew.

5. Chapter 5

CHAPTER 4
The Sun sets, the old world ends

Noon – Expedition Encampment

The sun glows fiercely on the epicenter of the sky, for all the ones who can gaze the cloudless space above believe it would be a sign of a better day, clear as the soothing mountain waters. The rays that it summons pierce the heatless hole sharply through the ship, bringing the warmth of true nature over the otherwise artificial aura that surrounds the expanse. It was a calm time all-around, as odd and un-normed the place may be, the encampment of Starfall beneath the steel roof go by every second with a cavalier slant.

They kill their time in meager leisure, gambling and discussing trivial matters, sometimes a good play of sparring would happen once in a while, especially during the eerie moments of the steel contraption they are standing on. Anything to keep their spirits high or to draw attention from the horrific sounds the ship can make. Regardless if their lord has been lost for less than a week inside the dungeon in which they trespass.

None however decides to take the choice to scour and search, gripping fear tightly on their shoulders, all the whilst pining on the edge of the steel jaw that enters the innards in which now more than half a hundred man is lost. They stand and watch but none dared enter, clinging on to the faith for the retinues return rather than to venture in towards uncertain and a potential of a downfall. Though some doubt, a few still believed on their master, as sure as the sun will rise.

Naturally panic beset them during a time, not long after the Lord of Starfall embark upon inward to the steely cave, massive changes has occurred during their stay, one which brings thoughts of puzzled stupefaction to the men of the falling star… and the otherwise household knights and bannermen that partake on the same endeavor whose loyalty to the cause still to be found wanting on the former until proven otherwise.

The darkened halls in which they stay shone bright with blue and white heatless light that came throughout the walls and ceilings alike. The platforms that scattered around the area, in which houses the many tents and cottage of the entourage now moves oddly as it abolishes many of the outpost's amenities. Followed by a booming voice that surrounds them with words and concepts unknown to the trespassers that reside which bears no mentioning.

All of this occurred not long after their leaders has been inferred to be lost within. An event that many decide to hammer deep unto their hidden fears until essential notice demands for them to make a move. Though the fright come to pass overtime, as most have made exploration on the grounds that they know. Touching the ever-moving pillars and examining the illuminous light all-around to understand their makings, that of course comes with exaggerated speculations.

"Would you look at this…" a bannermen spoke beside a display of words and numbers that appears through what they believe to be a mirror-like parchment that are written from thin air. "The words are summoned and dispelled?... what do you think it means?" like a waterfall that brings fallen clear waters, the mirror eludes it workings. Yet, it doesn't disperse any interest from the confounded onlookers.

"What did the maester say on the works of this… moving floor?" ask another, right on the edge, where parades of platforms ascend and descend with a well-ordered pace. "He knows none of this works… the weapons and tools of this steel are simple makings compared on what we are seeing now…" his companion on his side replied

"Must be magic then" the former gathered "I hear the wall on the north have contraption that can lift men and provisions up unto the top of it, but it does have cables and levers of the likes…" he gestured towards thin air that are often pierced by the ascending floors "These ones however, move on its own… what other answer than the mystic?"

"So, what is it?" this question comes from the other end of the cortege, a converse between a lemonwood and a Starfall footmen as they examine a lengthy fluorescent tube "Is it fire?" the lemonwood queried. The man of Starfall however, moves closer towards the electrical light on the wall, eyes narrowed with confident effort.

"I don't know lad…" He answered "It looks to stable to be a blaze… not to mention it seems to… long and extended?" the man surmised, though not even certain If his speculation has the correct logic. "It does not hurt that much to touch however"

"Be careful now… we don't know what it truly does… I hear you will suffocate and die a shriveled death if you drink the waters of Asshai… the same could be said on any oddities here…" the other Lemonwood supposes.

"If there are curses to be had, then we are already begotten long ago…" the Starfall man scoffed lightly "We are surrounded by these wizardry… who's to say we are not blessed instead" He turned with a humorous grin.

Meanwhile the lord and knight of Lemonwood viewed the eccentricity in front of the maester's tent, standing vigilant as he awaits the return of the Starfall lords' expedition. He arrived on the steel fort outpost a day after the depart of lord Dayne expedition, with his squire Franklyn Fowler in tow. Ensuring order to the otherwise leftover rag tag bands of footmen.

The once dejected squire toured enthusiastically around the perimeter of the outpost, absorbing all that he could on the scientific wonderment that surrounds him with his eager companion of a Blackmont. Who hauled slyly on the same ship the Dalt knight ventured on, much to the Blackmont's squired knight dismay.

"Ser Dalt…" Maester Volkron emerged from his silent tent. "Is everything well for the men?"

"No quarrel to be found here wise Maester, you can rest easy" Deziel spoke "is everything in order on your end?"

"Yes, yes of course… except…" The Maester Uneasily scratched his wrist "I've a message from Starfall… High Hermitage comes to visit… It would seem news of this affair have reached their lap…"

"The Cadet Dayne's?" Deziel Thought "It has only been a week and a half since this incident have occurred and they came here that quickly"

"Ahh… Lord Erick and Lord of High Hermitage are often in their exchange of messages… they do have many lordly dealings in their realms… trade and mild to vital plans of the likes" He walks towards the side of the Lemonwood heir and knight, gazing lightly on the entry towards the inner fort. "A raven came to Starfall a day after the fall… enquiring on the situation in which Lord Erick answered, before he arrived here on our search for young Gedric…"

"That was no less a week ago…" Deziel spoke "must be a very swift pace for them to come so hastily… my sympathies to their destriers"

"Worry not on that… The High Hermitage has always maintained a secure and loyal rapport, they are family after all" The Maester Relayed "And they are not far from these lands… if they are with haste, they would have arrived days ago…"

"As you say…" Deziel curves his eyes back to his squire, still wondering with the black vulture "Than they are expecting Lord Dayne's present then… perhaps another excursion to retrieve him should be in order…"

"It would be an expected manner of action…" The Maester halfly concurred "I cannot in faith return to Starfall unless ordered to do so… yet, If Lord Dayne truly did not… endured the journey, then I do not know what we can gather on the lot we have…"

"You think it will be a lost cause?" the knight sigh internally "it is certainly better than inaction…"

"Lord Erick has brought most of his best men on the journey… what you see left are merely middling subjects who are either passing in their skill or questionable in their loyalties and merits…" the Maester surmised "He picked his party well… though towards an unclear end it would seem… yet, perhaps we should not falter in our expectation, it is a too short of a time that passes to make such notions …"

"Very well…" The heir of Lemonwood concurred "though honor demands, it would be foolhardy of a deed to attempt"

they wait beneath the steel slates. With the ambiance much less disparaging and horrific then they were on arrival. It has been exchanged by intriguing wonders now, as most underneath made more decision to explore and learn about their quandaries rather than fear away from them. Asking questions where they can find no answer.

"How does this work?"

"Is this some sort of carriage?"

"It is rather comfortable this seat is…"

"Where do these words go?... what an odd mirror this is"

"o'er here lads! The air here is strong!"

The darkness quelled to make room for inquisitiveness, it would be quite a jovial situation if not for the solemn task they originally partook for. Insolent arrangements that once coiled in their thoughts has been disseminated away, complimented by the harmless disorder. It is not quite the peace ser Deziel expect the men to uphold, but the curiosity of their steely environment seems to aid their morale.

A shame that the Maester cannot befell them the answer they seek for the many enquiries that came in a torrent. It is quite rare for him to find his purpose in such an odd place, though one could see he is quite contented with the overwhelming requests that whirls in thought. Most are sure he will find the best response he could summon for the circumstances, though at the very least it resurrected the Maester's sweltering desire for knowledge.

No more than half a day, after the many men have rested their exploration of their surroundings, most if not all proceed to partake in a rest. Little do they expect that they would find enjoyable exhaustion from nothing less than practical education of the sturdy settings.

Still, it does not necessarily mean they withhold their distrust for the steel fort as long as their lord stay missing. Fortunately, the same rush of wind from the maw entrance where the expedition departs now gush once again with a sound of more than a numerous footstep. All that are presents have noticed pointedly hollered on the return of the retinue of Starfall, bringing all the awareness from the encampment.

"Maester Volkron…" Ser Deziel spoke through the opening of the Maester's tent "harken your spirit, they have returned". He strides coolly towards the merry commotion, lines of man unhindered and unkempt, disciplined that looks to be wanting as they strut and nudged left and right as they await their liege lord's arrival.

Figures appeared from the hollowed light and shadows, the shine from the Starfall lord reflected from the unliving rays of the glowing walls. His walk is tedious in the likes, appearing no less despondent than when he first departs. On his shadow, the master-at-arms walks with just the same pace, with an equal face that showed dejection.

All await until their greater stands before them no farther than six feet, with fewer man on his retinue than when he first journeyed inward. Excitement and carefree joy turn to murmurs and bewildered countenance. It is clear from the Lord's stature all the way to the gloom the rest of the men carried… They have failed.

The question is what has stopped them…

"There is nothing to see here…" Lord Dayne spoke, gruff and vitriol on his tone "back to your tasks…". The men quivered, some approached closer to aid their master. Until the Master-at-Arms decided to halt their path.

"You heard your lord…" He shouted; intimidation still rings in his voice despite his otherwise appearance "Go back to your stations! All of you!". The men relented, giving space to all the returned. Still… did not stop some to turn and look as they work; is it worry or doubt that marred their minds? Both Dalt and Dayne wondered… but to question now is to confirm, and urgent task needs many hands.

"Ser Dalt… you have returned" Erick called "Are you the only knight here?".

"Yes, My lord…" He answered "Me and two squires that is…" He gestured towards the individuals of interest "My Fowler Boy and His Blackmont friend…".

"Blackmont…" Erick whispered lowly "where is his master?"

"Hardly a true master of the boy, that knight…" Deziel thought "Only Appointed to the Blackmont boy as his knight because he is amiable to the father…". He straightened his spine up and answered the lost man's query "stayed behind on Starfall my lord… the Blackmont squire came for more hands-on deck and he allowed it" A lie well-spoken, though the lemonwood knight cared no less of their circumstances.

"My Lord!" a voice of wisdom came behind the shadow of the lemonwood knight, an old voice that betrays his full energetic figure "It is good you have returned! Much news came from all-around! Your hands and judgement are needed… I-uh…" his eyes wonder to the surrounding of Lord Dayne, his liege's despaired face is the first for him to see before the lacking numbers of the retinue "My apologies my lord… no early expedition comes with fruitful result in most times… in the coming days we can prepare ourselves for more…"

The Dayne lord sigh on the gesture, though it did not stop the enquiries "My lord… am I correct to assume you have encountered…. Obstacles?" the Maester asked "what has lessened the retinue so much?" a basic question well-asked, some man-at-arms slowed their workings, especially the ones who are near the lord, Curious on the circumstances.

"We have come upon… something" He answered grimly "the dwellers of this ship that is…"

"More of those steel beasts?" Deziel asked

"No…" Erick answered "Man… No different than us, flesh and blood"

"There are other men here?" The maester thought, an unprecedented information. In so far, the things they have come across are creatures made out of metals and iron, one could surmise that the master of this giant contraption would just be as such "This is a ship?" another enquiry.

"Hold there, sir…" Deziel interjected "What are these men? What do they want?... should we not bring more men?" The Dalt enquired worryingly, all the discovery that they have found give more than just a suggestion regarding the danger any entity of this ship possessed.

"Your questions will be answered in time and there is no need for a forceful hand… For now, though…" Erick looks around "We have reached a civilized result…" He looks back towards the Lemonwood knight "the squires, yours especially… must leave this place immediately…"

"My lord…" Deziel replied "They have just arrived "

"I do not need boys ser…" Erick said "what I need are witnesses" Both the maester and the lemonwood knight looked perplexedly, so does the curious eyes and ears of those around near enough to listen.

"There has been an accord…" Erick continued "I need all figures of authority I can have hastily… though they are of fowlers and blackmont… I cannot have them here; they are still children"

"My lord what agreement? What factions are these people? Can we truly trust them?" The Maester asked "Could it not be a trap?"

"These are questions I can answer" Erick thought "we cannot trust these ilk's… and they are as powerful as they are enigmatic Volkron, you saw the weapons we have found… they are basic contraption to these people" the dark shadows gloom on Lord Dayne's eye lids "trap or no… if we fought it would be madness on our part… for now we cannot win" He raised his head full height "What say you Sir Dalt?"

The lemonwood knight looks to the maester and the Master-At-Arms, who the latter stands steely despite the blackened halls and ether, he tried to find any uncertain signs on this ambiguous decision. He found many, yet not enough to reject such endeavor, he gave a deep sigh and gave an answer "I'll follow you to this agreement, but I must ask the squires on their state of all of this…"

"Ser… time is limited we mu-" Before the Master-At-Arms could finish his words, Erick gave a gesture for him to cease.

"It's alright Orlo…" Erick said "Please do so… but make haste, the sooner we find the truth in all of this the better… get them back to Starfall"

"As you will…" Deziel said "I'll do so at once…" Erick gave a nod and the lemonwood disperse from the scene. Not a moment after the Maester nudge closely towards the lord, as close as he can to his ears for an urgent tiding.

"My lord I am most sure you know more regarding all of this event than I am" Volkron speak "But I believe we should wait for more garrison; these are dangerous times and we are in a hostile abode…"

"I have to use as much resources I have in this predicament I can Volkron" Erick answered "why did Dalt brought those children here… this is hardly a place for young broods…"

"The knight holds his office earnestly" The Maester answered "each day is a day of teaching for him, considering the odd peace of this place, perhaps he took the risk to bring him… The Fowler that is… The Blackmont seems to smuggled his way here"

"Gods damn children" Erick whispered "now two noble houses will know our predicament… they be sure to send men here…" he speaks in mind, though hearsay would be more than enough to spread the news, the fact those noble children are here would accelerate the escalation. Bringing even more complexity to the situation that are already more than complicated.

Though wildfire spread farther and brighter, rumors would last longer than the former burn. It would not be long now until the royal fold come bearing curiosity. The prospect of outside bannermen and lords folding onto the lands of Starfall is a rancid thought to the lord "The less others knew the better… it is ruinous enough the Dalt is here…" he thought

"Perhaps a day wait should suffice my lord…" The Maester replied "High Hermitage have just arrived on Starfall, their presence holds more weight than none… I brought a raven here, my lord, one quick message and they should arrive before Nightfall."

"I don't have a day… I have hours" Erick spoke "yet it is good to know they are there… if only they arrived quicker perhaps my mind would be more at ease…" He exhaled one more sigh with a frosty mist that colored the air "speaking of which… you will come also, Volkron"

"Ah! I do My lord!?" He spoke excitedly "that is very wise, this is history and it must be recorded! I assure you I will learn as much as I can to correct this upheaval in time" an outrageous declaration but one Erick can appreciate. Of course, and quite unfortunately, it is an excitement he cannot share, they have made an… odd progress but it is a move forward nonetheless, still… Young Gedric is still not on Starfall's hand.

"My lord… if I may, the folk you have encountered…" The Maester asked "What can you tell me about them?"

"Lead me to your tent Volkron…" Erick replied "the words I bring are outrageous… not a story that should be heard on an open field…" Erick looked towards Orlo, eyes gave enough order for the other to understand.

"I see to the man…" Orlo bowed and left.

"Go on…" Erick spoke to the maester

"Ah… of course my lord"

They walked towards their destination, through other parade of tents and men that are either on task or on respite. Every passed man face bowed and eyes down in respect for their liege. Erick nods back in recognizing their small act of fealty, but the dim murk still remain on his features. A trait most clear to all that see.

As they entered the Maester's tent, the careful voices of the outside reduced somewhat, easing both thoughts of eaves-dropped slightly. The Maester offered a seat in which the lord declined; the circumstances gave to much unrest that a small comfort would only bring more undeserving thoughts, there are simply too much of a flow of issues that casted onto Erick's mind as they speak.

"Where should we start my lord?" The Maester queried, taking his seat just beside the larger one that are empty.

"Listen well… what I am about to say may seem to be an overstatement…" Erick said "But I bring nothing but the truth, so you must help me in this Volkron… I need to know how to approach this… your council is needed"

"I will try my best as always…" The Maester decreed.

And in a moment, all of his world and paradigm changed, manipulated and destroyed. With each information and concept relayed by his own lord. Eyes bulging with every air of a word has been spoken, with each tiding much more spectacularly inexplicable than the last. If there is someone deciding to dropped some eaves on their conversation, they would immediately infer that a lunatic have taken the place of their lord in place.

But they are standing on a steel star-faring ship…

Holding weapons that shoots thunderous fire…

With walls and floors moving flexibly around the area…

And mirrors that summons odd words and terms….

Perhaps the world is the one that have gone mad instead….

---

Afternoon - Starfall

In the reach the air is so soothing to the skin, though the trees are uncommon as oppose to its massive green fertile plains, the latter still brings the cool air upwards that fought against the cruel rays of Sunlight. The chattering of noble folks in the court of Highgarden and Arbor still rings pleasantly in her memories, with the breeze of the wind comforting their figures as they make conversation in either the gardens or the yards.

In Dorne however, the lady of Starfall did not find the same comfort that she would find on her old home. Even before the sun stand stern on the middle of the sky and clouds, the wind would come bearing unbearable heat one would wonder if the gods decide to bring a monsoon to humble the children of men, even in places where the light does not touch the heat still arrives uninvited with the shadows bringing no comfort from the hopeless temperature.

But no matter how unbearable the weather and the day may be, even the beauty and blessings of the land still walks upon this realm of men. The way the ocean shine like diamonds during dawn, the splendid sleek and sharp light of the mid-day sun that cut through the window and trees as they bring the chirping of birds and the squawk of gulls unrelentingly bringing life to Starfall. How these animals find comfort in such circumstances is truly an enigma to her.

Thus, no matter how dreadful it may be, those godsends far outweigh the dastard weather of the kingdom. Not to mention the love she bore for her family… for her husband and son… and another one that are expected to come as she caresses her swollen belly in an embrace.

A steady and stabile comfort of home are the things she has…

Until in these times, where every morning she awoke with the enormous shadows of a giant steel that dwarfed the sunrise of her home.

She stopped counting the days some time ago, and the headaches come and go ever since. Now the sounds of clashing steel are exchanged with drums of murmurs that drowns even the rare strong breeze. For what do they speak of is irrelevant to the lady of Starfall, but in consideration to the event, the topic of their discussion is no less clear than the pure mountain rivers.

In contemplation there she sits, on the same office on top of the tower where she banned her husband to go on her expectant times. Yet it has been weeks since she last saw her husbands face… more so the son. There she stays on the room on top of the army of stairs she gladly challenged if only to comfort herself for only a brief drop of time, under the shadows of what is familiar.

A comfort not truly everlasting as the door comes with a knock followed by a screech "My lady…" The Castellan speaks, the elegant prose still presents itself in spite of the dreadful circumstances "Are you well…?"

"I am Torbut…" She answered "Is there something the matter?"

"I Bring food my lady…" He replied "also… a word from arbor and Highgarden…"

She sighed "give them then…"

And so, the castellan did, exactly two letters, both ordained beautifully with delicate flowers and pleasant smell. Even in such a trivial act, Redwynes and the Tyrells holds no breath in expressing their arts of life. She chuckled softly, holding the humor in the quandary "oh Bethany… ever the artist" She thought, as she inhaled the musk of the Arbor letter.

She read the Tyrell's first before the Redwynes, saving the best for last. Rip the opening dexterously with her nails, soft and sharp like a razor. In a swoop she read it and conclude them to be rather rudimentary. Merely a formal letter requesting the knowledge of their arrival for the feast preparations. Sweet are the words, one could ask if these are Olenna's rather than Luthor.

It was not a long read, the reply for the message comes forth as quickly as she read each paragraph. Not even a minute in she wraps it back with deftly precision and put it elegantly on the small table, with swiftness no less like a bee or wasp.

She did the same with the Arbor, though one with a much more loving motion. The letter is opened like music, in tune with the rustling of flower whenever the wind pass through. A refined act worthy for an affectionate letter bearing pleasant words.

Naturally it was from her sister, Bethany Redwyne. A sweet child the last time she saw her, a couple of years from now she would be blooming. An age coming with the delightfulness of courtship, a time when every passing knight are more dashing as the sun shine them through. She recalled the first time she giggled when Erick slipped on a dirt when he picked flowers with her. "He pouts for a whole two days and spend half of it gripping his sword tightly…" she remembered, a gentle man behind such strong armor and skin.

The other half of the letter comes inquiring for news, inferring of a fallen star that fell and cleave the Torrentine in two, offering help and demanding that she let them help her, she wondered what was Bethany thinking as she wrote all of this, eyes of wonders and mind full of assumptions perhaps? Leyna can imagine it now, Bethany in her dress bringing comfort with her puffy cheek that just begging to be smooshed. All are the words from her but Leyna is aware of the implication behind the letter.

Bethany might be the one that writes it but the influence of Lord Runceford Redwyne is there, as is the father's task to care for their children. She thought in horror if her father is on his way here now, as the thread of peace is on the edge with all these knights and Man-At-Arms flocking underneath the Castle. Waiting for any threat that would come out of that blue gate of light, most of their faces are scrunched as if they tasted sour fruit. The Lord of High Hermitage is there as well, standing tall like her husband does in time of conflict and glory.

"No… not now, they must not come here…" Leyna thought, her husband's feeling on the other lords are faulty, he bears no love for their viper-like intrigue, merely reaching the bare-minimum if such prospect bears necessity in his interaction with them. "The less there are here the better…"

Her lord husband's orders are clear Let this incident be just a passing wind… we are more than enough. A word that pangs accurate, if the Maester or the Septon hear of this it would be political onslaught for the House of Dayne, Magical Heresy from both fronts. The Starfall household is always a martial noble family, many sees honor in such, but the lands are barely fertile and trade has seldom occurred, in both regard Highgarden and Hightower takes the pole. This is no time to be lowered in standing by superstitious lot.

"We are always famed for our warriors" Leyna Thought "Man-at-arms as unfaltering as the banner they hold". She glances outside looking upon the many flags that holds the Dayne Sigil, at times she could've sworn it glows in intervals.

She stands and gather the necessary utilities, messages must be sent and peace must be upheld, even now the murmurs from the settlement outside of Starfall can be heard. She does not know how much she can control the situation.

The steel contraption stands taller than even castle Starfall, even she dared to think that it might be even taller than the Night's watch wall, the waters around the castle is deep after all, she wonders what else the sea hide of it. If not for the Red Mountains surrounding them, Sandstone and Three towers could've seen it. Though House Cuy of Sunflower Hall is not shielded by the mountains intimidating height, by common sense they would be the first to see. Yet they are hundreds of leagues away and seldom they have business with the Daynes; thus, it is unlikely.

but still she hoped that they passed it as only a mirage if they do but she doubted it, the thing is to imposing to be deduced as such. Right now, the only thing she can do is act accordingly and hope for her husband's and son's return.

"Torbut…" Leyna Spoke.

"Yes, my lady?"

"I need your council on our letters"

---

Evening – Starfall's courtyard

"Something is moving…" Whispered one of the men, staring boldly unto the transparent eerie blue gate that glows with and swim up and down the likes of a horizontal ocean.

The bridge towards the steel ship has been build, not a sign of crookery or dilapidation can be found on its making, as per order of the Lord. Yet rarely do men dare to cross it to reach the gate, flowing gently as it is inviting them to touch it, yet it hums with an intimidating sound like a nest of angry wasp.

In such times irrational thoughts come and go as easy as men breathe, and for every two-dozen man that falter in fear, one would have the courage to move forward. In this case however where no less than a hundred man gather in the large courtyard and the garden of Starfall awaiting skirmish, three men stand above the bridge with their eyes eight feet away from the blue gate.

"What methods have you tried?" Lord Galad Dayne asked, stroking his gallant gray beard as his other hand caressed the blue light softly, the painting of thunder and the sound of static colored the area of his fingers. He watches with narrowed eyes, fascinated as much as he is intimidated.

"We tried using our weapons sword and the likes… even hammers… spears" said Ser Harkan Manwoody, his posture nonchalant as much as his teachings to his Blackmont squire "But all it does is just spark it, if there are any damages, I cannot tell… it seems no different than before our bout with it…"

"What of the Siege rams?" Young Lord Gwendal Dayne enquired; his pale fair hair blinded any gaze that are inquisitive enough to see it shine under the sun "What effect do they have?"

"Same thing really, all flickers… no budge…" Manwoody answered, as cool as the ocean breeze below "we even tried the Ballista's…. it makes for quite an entertaining show really, it blazes in glory as it hit the mark, but the results are all the same…"

An impasse came to them once again, the only other entrance found was the large hole now used as a station for Lord Erick Dayne's retinue. Now awaiting his return, The Dayne's of High Hermitage can only wait and try to find any marks of interest that could be crucial for their progress, though they come to realize brute force meant nothing to the otherworldly before them. They stand their ground for any development from either the Lord of Starfall or whatever is behind the luminous gate.

"I could've sworn I saw something moving just now…" Gwendal spoke, his eyes try to focus for any sign of movement that are veiled by the shine of the gate. As of now he can only see oddities that are incomprehensible to the senses, he could presume there are carriages or a sort of giant bird inside, yet he knows such thought is of the simple kind, there are other answers for it… a much proper one "If we can get inside that is…" Gwendal thought.

"Aye… many men and I said the same as well" Manwoody replied "floating about inside… no one know what it is… quite queer I say"

The older Hermitage Lord sighed; his breath clashed with the luminescent wall "then perhaps we can do nothing but stare as of now…" He said "let us go back then… no use standing around here… I… wait" eyes wide turning into a sleet "Something is truly moving there…".

"Do us no good if whatever it is does not come outside father…" Gwendal said.

"Truly? Then why is it getting clearer?" Galad Replied, and all their heads flick back towards a figure moving closer. A human shape that is, striding with a marching pace with a line of men that walks just as quick behind it. "Move back and make way!" The old hermitage lord ordered.

If the men are uneasy before then they are truly horrified now, less than half of the Man-At-Arms that stands behind the Hermitage pair are of Hermitage themselves, unknown to the threat that abduct the heir of Starfall. They took the news of the steel beast flying with metal limbs with a skeptical notion, yet now they stand below the shadows of the steel ship, most of those doubt disseminated just as quickly as they blink.

The three Hermitage lord and the Manwoody knight now stand on the edge of the courtyard, just a few feet behind the bridge as the man behind them gather their warrior's calling and congregate together to face the figure. Even now the shape behind the gate wobbled and waved unusually as it stands right on the precipice of the entrance. It made gesture it would seem, that as much the lords can gather, yet not towards them but to the cavalcade that stood before him. The sound and words muffled beyond clear comprehension.

"This is it son, be ready" Galad said, the magnificent shrill of a sword unsheathe stings the air. And similar sounds followed to the man that came and stood behind him.

Gwendal heed his father, yet he draws slowly, his eyes and posture focused more on gazing the curious occurrence rather than trying to make a hostile gesture. Ears perk up to try to hear the conversation that is on motion behind the gate, the one figure's voice sounds commanding towards the other ones before him, he could have sworn he hears familiar words relayed.

"Father… they speak the common tongue…" A statement of certainty, but Gwendal still harbor doubts.

Galad tilts his head at the knowledge and make no motion but to slightly move forward, which the Manwoody as ever curious step in the same action as well. Both lord and knight intended to hear the muffled voices more clearly to ascertain Gwendal's claim. Sure, as the heat of the sun, some words from the human shapes beyond them come clear to their lobes as well.

"Tis true… I hear them as well…" Manwoody concurred

The old Hermitage said nothing as he contemplates the news, the Starfall men spoke that the steel beast that abducted the young Starfall heir seems to speak as well, with words and terms unknown to them but still sounding as Westerosi as any other. Galad takes such knowledge with cynicism, men would imagine unnatural things in bizarre and hard times such as this, but to stand now behind the steel fort… and to hear it denizens inside speak.

"Hail! Man of the Stars!" Galad Shouts, and the gathered Man-At-Arms assembling behind him cringed. For they expect a mystical skirmish, yet not the fact that a lord leading them would taunt them so. "Enough of your speechcraft and face us!... answer for your crimes!"

Gwendal held his breath as a saliva lump in his throat, the men of Starfall said many things and most of them came true in evidence. One steel flying beast can lay a dozen man with its steel limbs and float away with a child unharmed from all the punishment they gave it, he could not imagine if his father manages to provoke a cavalcade of them.

Manwoody however, stands there unassuming with a brow raised on the circumstances. He finds the situation amusing to be sure, let the high lord take the stand on provoking the unknown while he stands on the sideline awaiting the end. Gwendal can only roll his eyes on his outlook, but hardly a circumstance to approach him for it. None have gone awry as of yet…

The figures behind the gate seems to heed The Hermitage lord's word, and Gwendal could have sworn he hears a bout of laughter and chuckle from the figures themselves. To find such situation to be humorous to them is a very wanting thought, he is not sure how to make of that.

Not a moment after an odd sound breezed out of the gate, and all men could see the entities that the steel fort spew forth. The one in the front march forward with a tread of martial authority, his mane is brunet and short that complimented his stern grounded face, the outfit however is as sleek as it is odd, grayish dark with thin shoulder pads that are ordained with golden accessories. His top is well decorated as well, with golden chain and a symbol of a bird holding onto a globe and various other things in his shoulder and chest.

"This is a man of a higher standing…" Gwendal thought

However, the ensemble that are marching behind him pose a most intimidating presence that complimented the leader's confidence well. All of them are wearing armor of a sort, what it is made out of and it works must be of the masterful kind. It is layered on most parts of their body, thick and shining beneath the ray of sunlight that betray its black color, it shaped very deftly from torso to toe, square and rectangular that would be hard to break as much as it would give a hard painful strike to its opponent. Still… Gwendal thought that would be an understatement.

Empirical observation such as those could only show little secret…

And wonder he does to what kind of man behind those dark blue visors that are resting on their heads, the helmet it attaches to betray no opening to be exploit. "Whoever they are… they are well equipped" Gwendal thought, it wouldn't be folly to surmise those armor could be as durable as the monstrous flying beast that Starfall failed to fell.

Losing In his thought, the young lord returns to reality as he hears the voice of the opposition "Good Afternoon…" The man said, arms behind his back "Are you the lord of High Hermitage, yes?" Galad stands upright as the men behind him muttered on the development.

"That is, I… yes…" He answered bemused "and you are?"

"I am Lieutenant Commander Julian Darry…" He answered, he gave everyone a moment to absorb the circumstances before continuing to speak "I know this is a very strange circumstances to all of you people, but I can tell you this… all of this is just a huge pile of misunderstanding…"

Gwendal and Galad look to each other with eyes wide that antagonized their impassive facial features, they look back to the lieutenant for the words that follow "the very fact we crash landed here is purely accidental… we are bearing no harm… we come in peace that is…" a short statement yet aptly delivered, for some the fact that they are facing another man is a comforting thought, the rest however stays with unease.

It was an awkward moment as much as it is bizarre, both parties stare at each other for more than a short time. Incredulous to the instances, none dared to answer… to speak first, though for the old hermitage lord it is an uncertainty on how to approach the queer event. But time is running short and the sun though setting down still glares unpleasantly to the skin.

"How can we trust you?" Gwendal decides to speak first "Who are you folks?"

The lieutenant sighed "Naturally of course, those are the first pair of questions…" He took of his officer hat and place it in front of his groin where his hand rest on the tip of the hat "We can't give you any guarantee on the first one, simply because… well… we don't know how to prove it… but please understand we intend to find a civil solution for every issue that we have"

He continued "As for the second question… we came from the stars…" and silent follows, every living body on the surrounding stood still, the gaze of a hundred man surrounds the lieutenant commander "We have encountered… issues on our fare and seems to crash land here… as I said again, we intend no harm…"

Galad's body agitated as his hand is gleeful to draw his sword "You attacked us first!" The Lord spoke "you send that steel monster of yours to injure the man here and steal their liege lord's heir!" the tension adds in weight, the heat rises and the men prepared for an odd bout of warfare. If it was unease then it is clearly extremely apprehensive now.

"Yes, I have heard on that, sir…" the lieutenant replied "that is one of the misunderstandings that we like to clear up…" he breathed in exhaustion "That was caused by a faulty… machine" He said, seemingly struggling to find the words, lips twitching by the second "none of us here know of that incident until your Lord Erick Dayne told us about it… we are as clueless here as you are… and we apologize for our negligence…"

As the name of the Starfall lord escape the lieutenants' lips, the silence that has covered the shadows now has been dispersed by a multitude of voices.

"Quiet you all!" Galad demanded, the fog of voices diffused by the second "You know of Erick!?"

"I do… that is why I am here actually" He straightened his arm as he raises to full height "I am here to invite you inside the ship… to attend a summit over these circumstances" awed voices blanketed the courtyard once more, Manwoody is the one to tell them to settle down this time.

"And where is this ship you speak of?" Gwendal asked

"Its right here…" The man answered, he raised his hand to point towards the giant steel "This ship is called Light of Alexandria and we will hold the summit in the observation platform… if you would come that is…"

"That thing is a ship…" Gwendal whispered to no one in particular, and the lieutenant understands the ridiculousness of the situation as he analyses the faces of everyone else around the young lord "How… do you make a ship fly…"

"Ah yes… I'm sure you have many question… but those needed long answers that would preferably be answered properly on our meeting… Lord Dayne is there right now conversing with the higher authority…" The man replied "So how about it?"

"How can we trust you on this…" Galad intervened "For all we know this could be a trap…"

An enquiry well questioned for truly this event have gone even further for what is considered to be overwhelming, in one hand if it is a trap, they would face an enemy of the unknown, one that could have capabilities stranger and more dangerous than the mind could suggest on the other hand… Lord Erick is in the ship… "And honor demands I stand beside him…" Galad thought.

"And do pray tell… why this summit will occur inside of this ship?" Gwendal asked, his tone sounds more arrogant than the indignation he desires to show "you are of the offender in this, why should it not have done here on Starfall… where the people are true and the defendant of YOUR madness!"

"Carefu-"

"Quiet Manwoody!" Temper starts to rise and Gwendal holds no bar on sharing his words "Yes perhaps we can establish your coming here, as ridiculous it is found… but you have abducted a young lord… who's to say you did not do the same for his father you say is upholding the summit with your Masters"

the fervor on the air upsurges with the passion of the Starfall and Hermitages Man-At-Arms, spirit came through just as large as the voice beckoned by the Hermitage Heir. "Perhaps you should stay with us as well for one… you say no guarantee, but I am sure your life is as good of a crutch as anything you call significant…"

"Sir this is unnecessary…" The lieutenant breathes with mental exhaustion "we are trying to establish good relationship-"

"Sir, with all due resp-" One of the Dark armored entity behind him spoke, though a voice unfinished as the lieutenant cut it as swiftly.

"Not now sergea-"

"Understand…" Gwendal intervened "if what you speak is true than there is nothing to worry about… no harm will come to you… you have my word, unlike yours my words I am certain…"

In this time the Dark knights of the lieutenant ruffled insufferably "We can't accept that" another voice finally speaks this time, one of the Dark knights decides to move forward, his armor becoming clearer to see and much more imposing, a word can beheld on the chest piece which spelled ODST

"Sir, this is a bad idea. The man we have is more than enough… this is entirely optional"

"We need to establish trust in this place… you know how important this" The lieutenant replied, he turns back towards Gwendal and pace forward until a few feet apart yet eye to eye, the Hermitage heir stand his ground, confident in his position, his father tried to pry him away but he gestured him back

"Father…" He whispered; the older man shakes his head in disagreement "I can handle this…" he gazes back towards the lieutenant, eyes unblinking and armor shining.

"What I'm about to say to you maybe alarming…" Julian speaks "but we are here to stay…" he looks to his surrounding, to each soldier that stands for Starfall and Hermitage "We're not going anywhere… we don't have a choice…" if that is the wise words to say during such times, the man does not know. "Every stable establishment starts with trust" Julian said "And I speak the truth…

We are here to help…"

No one is amused on that declaration, everyone on either side disheveled greatly on the Tension. The lieutenants' dark knights start to move rather ominously Gwendal notice, their hands wielding a sort of contraption of unknown bearing, short and long of square. The Dayne Man-At-Arms however, some have drawn steel, expecting a battle any second. All fidget and thoughts colliding onto anxiety.

"That sounds rather ominous…" Gwendal said

"Yeah well… if you want the full context…" Julian speaks "Go up there up the summit, I'm sure they'll enjoy your question"

They stare at each other; Julian did not look anywhere else but the eyes and Gwendal's gaze goes up and down in judgement for any treachery "I have nothing on me sir…." The Officer said "I'm not here to fight…"

"Speaking the same thing over and over again differently won't change our trust in you…"

"Well, something has to sir…. We're not going anywhere with this…"

Gwendal raised a brow "So you agree then?" he continued to ask "You'll stay here and we will agree to your summit…"

"Yeah alright…" Julian spoke in agreement, he sighed internally "I'll go with the hostage situation…"

The same Dark knight decides to interject once more, bringing more fury and frustration than before judging from his tone "Oh this is Bullshi-" And his words…

"Sergeant Ronald…" Julian intercept, before anymore insolence could compromise the thin threaded atmosphere "while I'm in their care… please escort sir…?"

"Gwenda-"

"Galad Dayne" The Hermitage Lord answered "I'll be the one attending the Summit"

"Please escort Sir Galad here to the Observation Platform…"

"FATHER!" Galad grasp and pulled his son's arm strongly, his features that Gwendal can see demands that the son kept his mouth shut. He looks down on the ground in bewilderment of what he has done to earn his father's ire… "Did I speak to freely Father?"

"Yes, you did…" Galad Answered "You jump to conclusions when you could've…" He exhaled exasperated on the strain "Never mind… we speak of this when I come back… For now, you will stand guard for Commander Julian here…"

Both of them looks back towards the lieutenant and to each other Galad's face grows more stern by the second "I should come with you… there may be-"

"And how would you protect me son?" He asked "A dozen man failed to fell one and you think you could take a nest of them?" Gwendal frustration increases as he shakes his fist. Still all of the retinue falls silent, seemingly out of their shallow waters and thought too much of the event "Stay here… and protect the walls whilst I handle this task properly…" Galad finished "You are the heir… Understand?... risk your life without compromising our house…"

The Hermitage heir took his turn to sigh on the complexity of the circumstances, as sure as the crafts of Valyrian he was properly escalating the situation to their end, just to landslide and end with at least… a draw. The commander moves forward until his feet no longer touching the bridge, much to his Dark knight's dismay.

"Truth be told… this negotiation ended quicker than I thought…" Julian said with a tired look.

"I'll be staying with the commander…" one of the Dark Knights declared, his deep baritone willing to give no chance to be argued, quite unfortunate the intimidation comes wanting.

"And who might you be?" Gwendal approached "someone of import as well?"

"Never mind him!" Julian interject clearly irritated for another fit of dialogue "Sergeant I'm telling you-"

"Sir I have orders"

"I am ordering you right now…"

"Chain of commands take precedence sir…" The Dark Knight said coolly "I'm afraid you are overruled"

Galad decides to venture into the argument "Who are you and what is your position in this sir?"

"The name's Will… and I am a First Sergeant" He answered, as impassive in body language as his compatriots. Though unlike him Galad and Gwendal could surmise they are not as willful as he is, a reasonable conclusion considering they have not acted and said nothing.

"My that sounds grand…" Manwoody said

"I like to think so…" Will replied

"I'll allow it…" Galad speaks "Manwoody you have him…"

"Very well my lord…"

The Dark Knight stride beside his commander and shout towards his comrades "Ron, you're on the lead for now…" his friend responded simply with a nod.

Galad did the same gesture towards his son and stride towards the rest of the Dark Knights, as he neared the gate once more another one of the lieutenant's knights approached him "Please stand still for a second sir…" She says, a female voice that is muffled by the striking helmet.

"For what end…" Galad Enquired, with no answer to it the same knight proceeds to draw a rectangular object and reach towards his eye. Curious and wary once more, the hilt of his sword begins to look attractive.

"Try not to blink…" and with another moment a bright blue light flashed onto his eye, it did not blind the Lord, but he is no less frightened. "Wow, take it easy!" The female speaks "It's just for registration… so you can enter the ship…" she walks towards the precipice of the gate "Come along sir…"

Galad held his breathe against the woman's insolent, rarely he finds discourteous terms from the smallfolk's much less a woman, perhaps their teachings are less sophisticated than Westeros. But duty bears him other task, and there is no time for trivial doings. With a quick beat of his heart, he phased into the ship followed by the other Dark Knights.

The way his father disappeared inward is surreal to Gwendal; from face value it seems like his body has disintegrated and outwardly eradicated from life. He is not of a religious kind, but he can only pray for his safety in such a strange and unfamiliar grounds. Silently he thought that a violent dispute will come for them in time, to say he is prepared for such time against such oddities seems to be found wanting.

There is history of Magic in the line of Dayne, the legendary sword is more than a proof for that, a weapon so utter that more than some believed it is stronger than dragonsteel. And whatever arts of mystic from other realms, whether there are of the north or the Valyrian descent comes with complexities that they are found to be more so tedious than it is sound.

Most of them are abstract power with meager tangibility, an accurate splinter that moves as obstruse as mist. But to look around now is to destroy the paradigm Gwendal always believed. The blue gate and the giant ship of steel is too apparent and true to be called a paltry trick of the mystic, And the curious wide-eyed look of the Man-At-Arms both his and Starfall's cause him abundant irritation. To look upon these Star-farer as anything more than just an enemy is folly, no high sorcery is of without tricks.

The Hermitage Heir, stared with deathly focus towards both volunteers. As if in a second, fire and blood would sprout from their bodice and engulf the yard with Wicked conjuring, mutilating the people of their mind and body. So, he stiffens his core and twitch his fingers. For any second a righteous strike maybe necessary.

The representative of the Steel ship professionally kept their composure, though inside they are as agitated as the unfamiliar faces around. The Lieutenant nudge himself closer slowly towards the first sergeant before he let out his voice.

"William…" Julian whispered "Did you-"

"I gave my sidearm to Ronald…" Will replied "I am as unarmed as you are…"

"Good… that's very good…" Julian exhaled in relief "Everyone is twitchy here" He continued "It wouldn't be to long till they got Touchy…" is what left unsaid

"So, what's the plan now sir?" The sergeant enquired

"It won't be long till that one start asking the right questions…" The lieutenant gestured his head to Young Gwendal "When that happens… keep your mouth shut and let me handle this…"

"Right on, sir…"

"You two…" Gwendal demanded "Follow me…" like the parting sea, the medieval soldiers move and make way for them. Still their eyes twitch with malice with an expectation of foreign hatred, if it comes from the fear of the unknown or the disdain of the incident, Julian cannot tell.

They followed him towards the grandeur castle, where the light of the dusk shines on its wall with colors of a calming inferno, and for a moment it seems like the wind gives a cool air enough to comfort all in their disparity. The day was uncertain and chaotic but they find solace in the sunset's twilight.

"Chain of command… order precedence…" Julian scoffed "Gimme a fuckin break…"

The Sunset Shadows are wide…

The summer sea is silent…

And the Palestone sword lies a silhouette of a lady, looking down…

---

Dusk – Observation Platform on the Light of Alexandria

In color, this giant ship seems to have a lack of an imagination thought Lord Galad Dayne. He can appreciate the architecture as bewildering and curious they seem to be in the eyes of the mundane, the way some look mightily sturdy and others open and close like a mirage or an illusion and whatever saturation or lines are there for indication and signs for places and faculties he very much wishes to enquire about.

Unfortunate that the escort given to him are not much of a conversationalist, on his journey here they have been nothing less or more than silent, at times as he moves around in contraptions that moves in an unnatural speed, the momentum did not break their deed of being a statue. Their helmet and visor airs pressure for every moment he manages to eye them, the very sense that he is not welcomed here are painfully clear.

Still, he can value the very thought that he has arrived on his destination safely, with these Dark Knights motioning him onto an excessively large room with a just as exaggerating view of an overly wide glass window. The flaming hue of the sky invaded the chamber, with the calm waves of the sea visible with the sun setting on the Horizon, the day is moments away to the end and Galad could feel the world changing every second he lingers in this ethereal ship.

Multiple figures in full height gathered around what appears to be a circular table in the center, with hazy blue light sprouting up from it, twisting all around it with a shaded air. some of them are unfamiliar, uniform similar to the wayward commander with the difference being distinctive accessory around it with some having more or less and, in their opposition, Armored individuals of a familiar making, sword on their waist with one particular sheathe seems to eerily glow under the shadow. Both parties are in discussion it appears, and on their faces… an imperiling look, they are at a deadlock.

All parties are engrossed with one another, seemingly disregarding their surroundings as they all stood still talking and listening on their turn. Galad approached slyly and silently to an accustomed figure, intending to understand the state of affairs before taking part on the Civil stint.

But even with the commanding and lordly voices, an intense surging pressure whirled on a single entity. A giant steel of a man standing not far from the congregate of authority that are in argument. Large is his frame, perhaps two or three feet taller than he and all the lords in present company. His shoulders broader than a steed with thickness of the plate unreal in its radiance and perhaps in it resilience as well, on the right side of his chest above the heart lies a number that Galad can perceive "S-104". He is silent and seems to be trying to be unassuming, an ironic gesture in consideration to his imposing figure.

"-perations are insurmountable!" Erick boomed with an echo "You've not only destroyed part of my standing castle but you have also obstructed my people's fields of living, your ship shielded the sea from our fishing grounds. Most of the ship in my harbors are sunk, half a dozen carracks, more than a dozen galleys and longships. Most of those vessels are not even of my own making, some borrowed from other houses… we are defenseless against pirates if they decide to strike!"

"Sir…" the one who decides to speak back is a mid-age man with claw scar on the cheek with a hardened wrinkles all over his features, his is of a streak of gray on his sleek back hair, in his shoulders a symbol of a star ingrained within a yellow background with an eagle anchored above it "We are trying to be as clear as possible, believe when I say we have the means to repair and even advance most of your faculties that are destroyed or not…"

Hands on the table, the man emphasize his words carefully "The only thing holding us back as we speak is getting to our bearings, our crash landing here have disrupted most of our facilities… with your help we can give you back more than you believe…"

"You realize how ridiculous this sounds…" Erick replied with a crack of vexation on every syllable "My people fear you and me now… they thought I am in league with a demonic entity, they are losing trust on their safety in me by the second… and your ludicrous story on your arrival here will summon more terror than it does in comfort…"

"What story…" Galad is lost on this conversation, he found himself to be very baffled on the cusp of this meeting, it seems he have missed an important part of this accord. In the Starfall's lord's side is the Maester of his house Volkron, listening intently with no indication to reveal he intended to speak anytime soon, perhaps an answer to his query can be found on the Learned men council.

"We are prepared to walk with you on that part…" The same mid-age man responded "I understand that this is quite a conundrum on the public peace, perhaps if it is possible with your permission, we can elaborate it to your folks for what has happened. Seeing that we are as much of a human element as you are, I'm sure that it'll took off some of the pressure from their shoulders. Something familiar will often ease public opinion"

"It will be far from satisfactory…" Erick said "Their mind will wonder and rumors will spread… it won't be long until the royal fold came here and start enquiring and making demands I CANNOT fulfill…" He sighed "My authority as a lord will be compromised… and both of our parties will be all the worst for it… in THAT I can guarantee…"

"Not in a good relationship with your higher-up?" Another ask, a younger one with a short hair with barely a strain of hardship in his face, in his similar uniform, four yellow stripe is entrenched below a star "Captain, if this man have a straining relationship with other governmental communities than maybe its-"

Galad can finally plant a title to the authoritative mid-age man, and the captain turns his back with a snap towards the speaking boy, the impudence of the young'un did not escape him, and even with his back turned Galad can still feel the irascibility from the mid-age man from being gainsaid. Silence reigns in for less than half a dozen second before the man starts voicing his thought once more.

"Whatever association lord Erick here have regarding his countrymen Is not to be our concern" He speaks, eyes boring to the insolent boy that is now staring the floor "Its not our place… unless lord Erick here deemed it necessary… we are in this together, sir… make no mistake…" He continued, turning his focus back towards the Starfall Dayne.

"My ship is anchored and jagged into your land as I say… we are trapped here and in our current state and have no means to fly back into orbit…" The captain relayed "Back into the stars that is… therefore both of our factions here will have no choice to, at the very least tolerate each other's existence for a very long time…"

"It will be difficult…" Erick said "But you must follow my every lead…"

"… we will do so… by the means at hand…" The captain replied.

Erick gave a nod, acknowledging the begrudging settlements. Not far, sir Deziel's sigh seemingly relieved that they have reached at least a mutual ground. Maester Volkron however seems to divide his attention everywhere, his sight boring onto each apparatus strewn upon the chamber before returning his attention back to the summit. And Galad is trying his best to persevere with the conversation.

Maester Orlo however… perpetually slip his gaze to the Daunting Golem, his hand tics every second and his footing primed for an eventual lunge If matters awfully go awry. The very notion that the Golem stands incredibly still without any unconscious movements is surreal to him, unreal and inhuman.

"Very well…" Erick continued "Than let us retract my previous queries…" He swallowed a lump as he prepares to voice his words with a breath "We will need the specifics in time… I understand you say that there are complications in your vessel at the time being, but I am expecting the details of your aid very soon…"

"That is reasonable" The captain said

"I also want a full story of your arrival here… of your people and histories…" All around, the Westerosi lords and knight nodded, in agreement to Erick's notion "As you say, there are more than many misunderstandings of your coming… a greater detail of your circumstances would create a more stable element between us… you understand…"

"Of course, that goes without saying… I'm sure we can discuss it during dinner in time"

"Very good…" Erick rolled his eyes on the slight statement "Which brings me to my next question a very important one… I understand you say my son is in your safekeeping…"

"…." The captain subtle scrunch on his cheeks went past the Starfall Lord's vision "Correct…"

"I would need a clarification on how did this happen and his return…" Erick said "You say there are errors on your contraption that caused this incident?" He continued "and I'm afraid I cannot leave this sit unless he is beside me, can you please fetch him for me please…"

The sun is gone….

Swallowed by the horizon, the light of day dispersed with its warmth. A shine still remains, the moon retains its majesty in the sky with a perfect circular shape, its reflection vibrates at the sea. Numinous and fantastic, the ocean dark blue seems to become it, complementing its vibrancy with the waters very own alluring calm waves. The sun has died, and for all that resides below the dark of night they await the new dawn. A song of life that carries hope, but the night Is darkest before the dawn, and the children of men will have to fight for the new day before they could reach its soft heat.

Just as men fight for spring during winter…

With that one question, another tension takes over the room. Every soul stood still, the captain and the men behind him seem like statue that would crack with a touch, even the pupils in their eyes hoisted unmoving. Erick and his small flock of lords and Knights behind him stiffen on the change of atmosphere as well, they look upon each other In confusion, expecting a solid answer from each other.

The Golem stands as eerily as ever, petrified as if he is part of the ship…

"I need to see him now?" Erick asks once again "You said he is safe, yes?"

The silence is irritating to all lords of Westeros but more so Erick, his body glow with anger by the second, he did not come to the precipice of the steel ship only to be found wanting by the twisted tongue of foreign men. Feeling the pressure, the captain throws his voice, trying to sound as civil as one possibly can in such odd times.

"This conversation needs to be in private…" He spoke "My men and yours can wait outside this room until it ends… is that fine?"

Erick narrowed his eyes in subtle fury and confusion "Another hurdle…" He thought, He learned well from warfare to political intrigues that a straightforward will always disintegrate with factors outside of his control, in all manners of life it is just as important to be cunning as much it is to be prepared.

"Major mike, Sergeant Jameson… Please escort every one out of this chamber… when we are done, I'll call…" The captain spoke

"Sir-" The captain raised his hand, and the young major's mouth closed shut. They all walked slowly out, expectation of violence still rung close to their heads. The doors stay open as they wait outside, awaiting the Westerosi party to do the same.

"It's the only way I can tell you sir… the information will compromise you" The captain explained, just as vague as usual.

"Orlo…" Erick called, Violet eyes still drilling onto the captain's Sky blue pupils "Escort Volkron and Dalt here outside if you please…"

Orlo and Deziel stiffened for half a dozen second before they started walking, The Master-At-Arms nudging his head to the door for all men of Westeros to follow him without a word said. "Except you Uncle Galad…" Erick said "You stay…"

The Hermitage lord breathed in relief and anxiousness, this is a revolutionary event and he have no notion to stand in the sideline, the next time the sun rises the world will never be the same, and the line of Dayne is at the Vanguard of the new day. Still… he is surrounded by unfamiliar ground, doubt clouds him as he wonders if his prowess is enough to protect his nephew, but all that is certain is he will do what he must. "I'm here Erick…"

The captain sighed "Sir… I can't in good faith-"

"This is my uncle…" Erick responded, wasting no time "He is family, this is his matter as much as it is mine… and thus by extension Ours…." He points towards a shadow where a figure lies in wait "And if that beastly golem stays, I see no reason for my uncle to do the same…"

"Fine… very well…" The captain relented "Your call…"

"Of course…" Erick replied

---

Outside of the Observation Platform

Each side stands in opposite ends, The large steel door act as a line that divide them from reaching one another. On one side the man of the stars gathered with varying degrees of standing, one stands arms behind him with a posh of a collected man while the other crossed his arm glancing uneasily to the Westerosi, another one did not bother to even acknowledge his surroundings, preferring to take his attention towards a tablet that glows in his hands.

On the other end the man of the seven kingdoms, stands undaunted that betrays their Fretful hearts. Except for the Maester, that leans on the iron fence looking down upon the many and various wonders of Alexandria, absorbing every passing thing that flies over, imagining their use and purpose in his mind, Sir Dalt stood whilst holding his sheathed sword on the center to the ground, using it as a crutch as he stood truly as a Sentinel. Orlo turns his back from the man of the stars, consciously believing if he caught their gaze, he would growl in anger, his self-control is to be found wanting at his current state, the battle against the steel Golem still stung him even now.

One of the men named Major Mike twitch his lips often but nary a word came out, Sir Dalt notice this, recognizing the man is trying to communicate but quite unsure where to start. Yet the very same is said for the Lemonwood, much queries needing answers, but unfamiliar ground make him doubt his capability of intrigue, if it matters at all now where he stands on a juggernaut Vessel.

He can appreciate the gesture of careful approach from the major, the insolence of the other man that disapprove of Westerosi custom is seldom an approachable individual for a conversation, his name is unknown for now, but if they spoke with such a man, he is sure it won't be long until steel is drawn, gaining irritation with each other more than gaining a foothold.

Groups of what appears to be soldiers and builders walk by every now and then, a cavalcade of weariness, judgments and concern is visible with each one he caught in his gaze. "They are as befuddled and frightened in these happenings as we are…" Deziel thought, he did not expect for his days to escalate this far in his life, Banditry he can handle, partisan cunning he can tolerate, but a falling star…

He closed his eyes, gripping the sword hilt in case he would actually fall in exhaustion "Perhaps when I open my eyes, I would be in Lemonwood… in the beautiful bailey and castle of the coast…" Deziel wishes, not truly comprehending nor accepting the state of affairs.

During his scribing days, Volkron are often scolded for not tending of his eyes properly, often he is bored in the Citadel as he learned on what he believes between useful lessons and impractical unnecessities. On such boredom he would often scour the library, stacking books after book as much as his bony young hands can hold. Arts of Warfare to the Magical history of the world, for every second he learned during the day he would spoil himself on pleasure reading on questionable subjects during the night.

The joy he had as he read such frivolities would often lead to his eye lids unblinking, slightly scarring his eyes by the years. But for all that time in Citadel studying the world of the Mystic, is pallid in comparison to the marvels he sees now. To even touch some of these makings would be of the greatest blessing, to learn them is a miracle. For a vessel to have halls larger than a large village is truly a remarkable sight.

The noises are overwhelming with no room or even the smallest crevice for silence, if one sound is dismissed another one would take its place of other machineries, a procession of sparks and hum. For the Westerosi and the other it is a godsend, the silence would make for an awkward situation.

"Sir!" a shout from a mode of transportation, Volkron heart beats quickened over the sudden interaction "Move out of the way please, this is going to storage on a deadline!" The Maester scuttered back to his own gathering, keeping his body in a clinch, fearing of making a wrong move that invites a disaster.

The machine went past them with a leisure a pace, a huge carriage with two fork steel planks at the front that carries a sort of metal objects of indeterminate components above it. as they went past Volkron noticed the rider, a uniformed man with a yellow helmet that motions on the levers and wheel that moves the metal carriage, how on all the kingdoms are they capable to move on their own without steeds is truly curious.

"Stay close Maester…." Orlo said beside him, eyes looking downward to his twirled knife to relief himself in the activity. The passing people of the stars would often gaze upon him with worry on his arms, the fact that they are not disarmed in their enormous abode is a confusing notion, but in consideration to their destructive weapons and machines, Volkron surmised they just did not feel any threat from the meager Westerosi entourage. Still, its odd they risk their chances.

"Sorry about that…" The one they call Major mike dared to speak "its quite a troubled time for us you see… a lot of tasks needs to be done, and were in a hurry and all…" The Maester heeds as he looks around the halls to find that every man and woman are moving with a purpose, departing to their task with consistent steps. On the halls he finds them all working on various duties, all absorbed on it as if their surroundings are just white blanks of unessential events.

"O-oh it is quite alright…" The Maester replied "Truly… it is my mistake for being inquisitive… I am a learned man you see; I cannot help but to enquire…"

"A learned man?"

"Ah… as in a Maester that is…" The Major's face is impassive a sign of a needed elaboration "urr… it is a sort of an educated man… I advise my lord on many things scholarly or otherwise…"

"Ahhh!" The Officer smiled with a nod "In here we call such man professors and doctors…"

"Oh! You have Maester's as well…"

"Yeah naturally… we have more than a handful of them…" He relayed, the prospect of another intellectual individuals on this ship excites the Maester "The very being of this ship and all it sectors and faculties is a necessity for such profession to exist…" The Major elaborated "I'm sure in time after all of our issues are resolved, we can exchange information and knowledge with each other…"

The shadows underneath the Maester decreased unto a meager, for a moment Volkron look as if a decade younger from such offered probability "oh indeed! That would be swell!" He spoke with eagerness "a-ahh I'm sure there are many things we can learn from each other; I do know many that can help you in your stay here…"

Before the Major can make an empathetic reply, the same man who cling unto his shining tablet scoffs loudly on the conversation. The Maester looks slightly demoralized on the expression, fearful that his actions are of the discourteous kind "Am I talking to a greater highborn… did I speak too freely?" he thought, the very last thing he desires Is to destroy the bridge of knowledge that he could have.

Sir Dalt and Orlo turns to glower on the uncouth expression of the man himself, an action unwanted from a harmless and productive conversation. The major notice the development of the tension, looking back towards his other compatriots he decides to de-escalate the situation. "Lieutenant…" he spoke sternly "You've been warned once…"

"I'm sorry sir…" The lieutenant replied, eyes still down towards his tablet "bad habit… won't happen again.

"Habit, he says…" Major mike thought "as if meeting and landing on a medieval setting is a common occurrence…" he shakes his head and notices the still holding glare of the Lemonwood knight "Again I apologize… some of my men likes to go throwing their temper to someone else on uncertain events like this…"

"Need no worry about that…" Deziel Replied "We have more than a plenty tainted stock ourselves… we know full well when to ignore them… and some days it is but a routine" For a second, they find common ground, a nod to each other and a good basis to start on future terms. Still, at least the major found the lemonwood knight voice in this time, for a second one would think he is a mute.

For Deziel however, he just does not speak unless it is of the necessary kind…

The common ground does not last long on the other end of the steel door though, loud voices and shouting leaked out from whatever crack the door may had. It would seem the civilized part of the discussion inside is reaching its limit.

"There they go again…" The sergeant said, looking down on the railing with a frustrated breath. Watching his comrades and people doing their job in repairing the faculties is easing to his mental exhaustion. "It's not everyone's day…" He thought to himself, taking off his hat to scratch the temple of his head.

"It's really a lot to take in…" The Major spoke "To much happened in… more or less a month, a little dispute every now and then is inevitable… though I'm sure it'll worked out in the end…" they looked to each other in sounding acknowledgement and separated themselves once again to their respective sides, waiting for the day to end and for them to continue on to their dealings.

Though the instances demand otherwise as a floating metal eyeball decides to fly its way onto their silent congregation, The Westerosi become rigid on its presence, looking again on the uniformed officers for any explanation.

"Hello! Yes! Good evening all of you!" It spoke, a voice that reverberates with its glowing ball that act as similar as a pupil, it turns it gaze towards the Westerosi flock, its ray of light turns brighter blue towards their gatherings "My… what feudal ensemble you are all donning! I dare say you are as he said you are!" It says, voice as jolly that betrays the tautness of the area.

The three men of the seven kingdoms look to each other in turmoil once again, the day have been nonstop in barraging them with bizarre events after events "I'm Sorry… What are you?" Deziel asked "Who are you referring too?"

"Excuse me!" The Major speaks up "Name and Designation number?"

"AH!" It perks up at being appealed "I am Steadfast Aspirant 655256, and I am the Superintendent of this ship!" It answered, intonation no different than before

"God Damnit… that's right" The Major exclaimed "The Admirals not here…"

"Yes of course, My present company already suggest that… it's been more than a week after all" It says matter-of-factly before continuing on "more or less a month to be exact… Are you not the highest officer here, Major Mike?"

"No… that would be captain Gunner… his inside the Observation Platform right now…" The Major answered, looking defeated over a certain state of affairs "Can't go in yet though, a summit is being held…"

"Oh yes! Lord Erick Dayne is in there yes!?" It replied enquiring a confirmation "Right! That is exactly what I was expecting… now if you excuse me" it turns again, showing its metal intricate back to the group until he shouts in an odd mechanical voice "Young Gedric please come along now!"

Eyes wide open, everyone present stood up with energy awakened over a name bellowed through a mechanistic mouth. Orlo snaps back like a man reborn with a purpose and Ser Deziel awakened in his pseudo respite. Volkron stands in his place as he observed his surrounding, trying to find a short boy with violet eyes.

Within a moment a child appears from the corner, wearing nothing more than plain shirt and trousers of the white color that covers his whole-body hands to feet. Unassuming in all traits except for the oddly shining pitch-black hair and the burning purple eyes that glows ever so slightly.

"Master Orlo!" He shouts, a voice of a child that gleams with relief "Maester Volkron!"

"Gedric!" Orlo shouts with passion re-emerged "Come here! Come here now!" He extends his hands, an invite of a familiar kind, with a promise of return and a vision of his home becoming closer etch in the boy's mind. Not waiting permission from near authority, he went past the floating metal eye with unprecedented speed and in a blink, he appears hugging the Master-At-Arms thigh.

"What…" Orlo cannot even react properly in the situation, from his tired eyes it truly seems like the boy snaps onto his legs with lightning speed "I'm imagining things…" He surmised in thought. Volkron went over as quickly he could, examining the young boy for any unsolicited signs.

"Did they do anything to you?" Volkron questioned

Gedric sniffed "I think-" before he can voice himself, the metal eye interject as quickly as thunder struck "Now, Now Young Gedric" It says "We need to see your father now…"

"Wait! You cant just-" No one heeds the major's warning, the door to the observation platform opened as soon as the Superintendent was near it. Inside The captain and Lord Dayne of both Starfall and Hermitage turn in surprise over the new addition to their coterie, the shadow that hides the Golem casted away by the light entering the chamber. The stillness that did not hold long, as the fathers sight engross the shape of his son.

"Gedric!"

"Father!"

"Good evening, Captain!" The eye speaks "There are much we need to discuss…"

"Of course…" The captain breathes the words away with a stutter, his hope of instilling proper conduct to the circumstances dissolving by the second…

---

Before Midnight – Starfall Castle

The silky soft skin of the bed is an illusion of comfort Leyna cannot partake, today would be another day where the other end of the bed lies cold and empty from her lovers' figure. For such an eventful month, it is quite a conundrum that the night is as still and quite as much as there is noise in the day. The unfamiliar conditions do not help her during this time of labor.

She did not even bother to come to the table during hours of feasting, the lovely sounds of familial voices are absent for there to alleviate her presence. A huge table with empty seats will only enhance the sensation of solitude, as long as the prospect of partaking dinner or any time of dining exist, she will not lie his bosom on her chair. In her chambers she can tolerate such feelings, in here to be alone is natural, an illusion she guiltily takes part to ease her worries even if it is false.

The bellow of the Steel ship as they say it is bellowed a static sound once more, a hum of energy of the unknown origins. She hated it, as if there are intervals where she kept being reminded of what that accursed object did to her family. And the worst of it all is she did not know why, the reason for its action and what lies inside it, where her son is resides, where she hope he is well, as much as a hopeless cause it seems to be.

The tear is on the edge, a precipice of a collapse hung closely to her being, she doesn't know how long she have left until her inescapable fall. She half a mind to barge into the host of encampment outside of Starfall, where the denizens of the steel ship have been kept hostage. "Their place should be in a dungeon to be questioned" she thought, having no less than a rag tag tunic and no place to shit. Such is what should be the fate of a child stealer.

She sits on the left side of the bed, preparing herself to lay alone, to think of happy thoughts in her darkest hours. Until a knock came from the door and a voice she knew well "My lady…" The Castellan spoke "My lady, are you awake?"

She sighs in exhaustion "What is it now… at the eve of midnight of all times" she thought, as she rises to full height slowly, easing her knees. The window let the moonlight in with a whisper, enhances the beauty of the flower she placed at the edges of crevices that are perceptible. In that she relaxes herself to the soothing of the eyes.

She opened the door with a huft, staring daggers onto the innocent man in irritation "What is it now, Torbut?"

"Its lord Erick, My lady…" He says "His ba-"

The velocity of her pace is outrageous to the Castellan, for a woman with a late belly she seems to be as fleeting as a momentous arrow, swift and straight. He chased after her, towards the stair where a wrong step could take a life.

Slow down, My Lady! SLOW DOWN!" if an incident were to happen, the last man of her watch would be off with his head. He can only wish that he can reach her in time if such a disturbing notion to occur. They came closer and closer to the courtyard by the second and Lady Dayne look no less full of passion with every step.

The door to the destination is there, usually opened by two servants and left open until night, is well ordained with vain decoration as much as it is enormous. Leyna painfully tried to pry it open, all her might on her arms with her face beet red and door did not budge one bit. "Torbut for all that is holy, OPEN THIS DOOR!?" She demanded, breathing heavily as she let go of the handle.

Yet before the Castellan can reach it, it pushed open from the other side, the dark rays of the night littered the floor like carpet that welcome the Starfall lord. There stand Erick walking in proudly with the same hard face he equipped the whole day until his eyes landed to his wife. "Leyna!? Why are you here? Sweati-"

She embraced him with a hug, her exasperated breathe collided with his neck, taking her respite behind his arms, catching breathe whenever she could. "You're back…" she hummed with a whisper, kissing his skin on every nook of his neckline and shoulder that she can reach, in time she let go to rest her hands on his shoulder to look at his darkened violet eyes, they look sharper and more beautiful with his moonlit head.

He let go of her, despite her dismay and disapproval "Erick…" she whispered unacceptably.

"Go on then…" He beckoned to someone behind him. And there he stands as well, awkwardly behind the entrance looking away at his parents' affection with each other. Leyna did not realize what she sees, or to put it more correctly can not believe. She expected there to be more hardships before she can see her son again, but there he is.

Exactly how a mother act, Erick becomes just another silhouette in the room, as she approaches hastily to hug her child. It is a strong hold, if he is but an ordinary child Gedric would already be suffocated. But he held on still and hugged her back in kind as she smothered him with kisses on the cheek and forehead "Come in both of you, its cold outside!"

The door is closed with a satisfactory click, Erick makes sure of it. He walks back to his wife who holds his son on her hand with a grip strength of an elephant and speak summarily after pecking her forehead "have your fill with him… after which we will talk…. Whilst you rest on the bed…" Leyna tried to grasp his hand to stay with her and her son but… "I need to speak with Torbut and Orlo, in fact Volkron as well… I'll see you again after" he said "Worry not… I won't be long…" He walked away with the Castellan "Torbut where is Gwendal?" "Right this way my lord"

Leyna begrudgingly let him go, he will back in time, as he returns with Gedric as promised. Sitting down on the nearest chair, she beckons to her son, who seem to look slightly taller than usual but perhaps it is due to not seeing him in some time "Come here sweetling let me see you…"

She strutted lightly towards her, and as quickly as he arrived, she grasps his cheek and look to his eyes.

Their…

Their Glowing!?

---

OBSERVATION PLATFORM, OFFICER'S GATHERING

A FEW WEEKS/A MONTH AFTER THE FALL OF "LIGHT OF ALEXANDRIA"

"Sir, Permission to speak freely…"

"Ah… yes, of course go on ahead lieutenant… I'll allow it"

"What the hell is going on… why did we let the kid go!?"

"Because it was part of the deal… and also because it is necessary…"

"What… he is UNSC property now! His place is here! Not out there where he can do a god damn damage!"

"His not going anywhere jitters, he is in arm's length… this is a unique circumstance, I emphasized on that repeatedly…"

"We need that kid…" The voice spoke with infuriating tone "We need EVERY fucking spartan we have! And you decide to gave one away to a medieval shit show…"

"Permission to speak freely revoked…"

An angry breath is sounded, but the man kept his composure by the order

"I already make a compromise with his father… he will always be in arm's length WITH the UNSC, I told him every urgent reasons why… he understands…"

"Confidential info?"

"No… just… dangerous implications… nothing compromising…"

Another voice came, one with a collected amp "It was the right choice, if we keep him here, he'll scour the place… if we lie and never found him, he'll not believe it, he saw the drone kidnapped him"

The lieutenant decides to ordain himself once more "We Could just apprehend them all… a necessary subjugation. WE have the firepower… send Spartan Frederick or any spartan 3s or 4s with a single fireteam- Hell… just send in an ODST and a couple marines and they'll clean house completely…"

"Oh yes…" The Captain Scoffed "Lets spent our current minimal resources in a skirmish we can avoid why don't we…" He smacks the table loudly before making his point "Most of our faculty is dead and need some fixing, some are fubar and need greater resources to rebuild! And you want us to destroy potential ally and recruitment?"

The captain sighed before he continued "Understand we are at the higher ground here, the man knows his outgun, he knows that we are better as allies and he sure as hell knows he needs us to understand his son's condition and circumstances…" the room is silent "This is the time for recuperation… there are a lot of unknowns we are standing on… for one, why is this planet populated and secondly how can we use that!"

"All of you know who the real enemy is… we can't spend our short time fighting each other… we NEED manpower… the minute we go warfare against these people we will only win a pyrrhic victory. Some or no losses from our side, and a greater number of casualties from the seven kingdoms that could be future UNSC recruits… we will make due, we always have…"

"We did the right choice"

"Yes… all according to protocol" A mechanical voice said "we need not worry on young Gedric situation, his augmentation will demand his return here in time. All we must do is just wait… in fact we could use this time to gather ourselves as much as we can…"

'Right" The Major voiced in "Where do we start?"

"How about the Cryo-gen incident…"

"Damn… I almost forgot about that…"