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.

8. Chapter 7

CHAPTER 6

Dying Old Alliances

Moons passed, and the changes comes stampeding without stop with each second. The sun still raises brightly every morning, but the Steel Mountain shielding the dawn serves as great reminder of what is to come. Light sheds and splintered through the peak of Alexandria, rays of light like water dancing on the skies instead of gracing the land like it has before.

It is a notion all people of Starfall have accepted, and they do so willingly as it has been judging in its current predicament. At the early of its fall, the Star Kingdom of Alexandria that lies in a gargantuan steel ship has been taken with notions of evil wizardry and heretical aspects. It does not help that they came with powers unnatural that the current civilization cannot grasp.

But that was before the gifts, and it was before the help. As scarce food is an idea that surrounds the Smallfolks and Highborn alike on the land of Dorne. The Dornish marshes and the red mountains did not elevate the possibility of sustenance as much as one would hope for the needs of many. Now the Starfolks bring a surplus of them, and they turn the hindered lands into fertile ones. Meats and vegetables alike surround all table between Starfall and High Hermitage.

Terraforming they spoke… a mystic art of manipulating nature. The people of the Torrentine rivers have not forgotten as they watch their liege lord Erick pointed a parade of machines towards the dead soils, watching them contraptions work its magic as the land turned fertile and green by a few days.

The works of new wizardry has made old teachings became useful once more, improve it as well if one could see. Gears upon gears and ways upon ways of farming came and revolutionize the people, fundamentals of the old still remain but the process changes in time. Doubt goes away by the aera as they see the greater work of such machines, though the marvel would remain for a few generations before normalization can fully ingrained.

As much as they could tell… the Daynes have in some form… ascended. A fitting conclusion for the ignorant masses.

The same changes came as well in homes and other manners of building. Houses of Steel and concrete, dams on the many waterfalls that brings the power, carriages and steel dragons that flown freely with the shredded light on the air and so on. It truly does bring wonder to children and adults alike, every time of the day the laughter of the young escaped without care as they marveled to all things confounding. Everyday a new thing will come and they all expect it with glee.

Rumors and False-say of heresy have been casted away and exchanged with talks and sayings of blessings from the sky… fickle is the heart of Men, more so is the mind of the ill-informed. Erratic as the storm of the sea.

The western part of the rivers of Starfall are filled with old villages and settlements that carries many folks of the seven kingdoms, now also remained some folks of the star. The eastern part who lies mostly empty save for a few farms for so long now has been adopted by the Star folks for their own works of the mystic. A territory solely for them and their secrets, as booming and quaking sounds of creations vibrates the land that its local counterpart can even hear it as they sleep.

Giant steel buildings and many forms of queer makings now littered on such eastern parts; the old families that lives near the rivers are often sat on the riverside to watch as the wonders of the Starfolks grow. Childish speculations and exaggerated conjectures of creativity of whatever are the many things on the east always escape their lips on their watch. A harmless activity, that even some Starfolks find to be charming and adorable.

Seldom any complained of their takings, they have given many to the people, Old wooden and dilapidated foundations turned to steel pillars. If those are just silly and paltry work for them, then surely, they deserved a greater space for their better works. Most thought it can only raise from here, but some still look on with caution.

Understandably so… such great works are not without cost… the elders learned well on their ancient wisdom. So, they stand vigil for the trade, awaiting the price and what could beckon such world-shattering gifts.

Much to many dismays however, some of the price is already there and in hand. With the coming of such capabilities, a decree has been set for all that stands within the confines of the southern Red Mountains. Under no circumstances would there be any migration out and away from the Land of the Daynes.

A despairing news for all travelers and merchants in their interest to begone from the lands, but even they hardly complained in consideration to the service provided on their circumstances. Rarely do they find noble quality foods and accommodation on their tours all over Westeros and Essos. Thoughts of departing are the first that they betray, and prospect of remaining on the land are starting to seep in…

Much for many to learn here… and the Starfolks seems to be quite generous in their lessons… or so they thought.

One day, they have seen another ship flew over their heads. One that is bigger than the rest and shaped like a humongous bird of steel, its body is fat and defined with dark-blue paint upon its metal skin. Unbeknownst to the people below, within the steel-bird lies their resplendent Lord Erick Dayne, A Lordly knight truer than any steel with hard choices carried upon his shoulders.

A great burden for the sake of his family he flew towards High Hermitage. A promise of uncertain future awaits him within the halls of the crossroad castle of the Torrentine rivers, as old allies' journey and congregate towards the same location as well. Bearing nothing less than demands and queries that tested Ericks exhaustion in intrigue.

For the Folks below however, their thoughts lie elsewhere. Towards a certain coming of a better future, and the sweet food and laughter that awaits in their home and table. Never in their lives they thought they could live at least like a wealthy landed knight, and the gap between Commoners and Noble seems to dissipate ever so slightly…

How little do they know the secrets that are entrusted upon the Daynes…

For unknown to the small people of the village, the gap has now actually turn to the extreme…

As the line of Starfall now bears the power of the future…

Within the fortified walls of the Castle… lies a small form of ultimate potential…

Sitting on the courtyard… a body that held the power of a sleeping army yet awakened…

With eyes of fierce red and purple glowing…

---

Starfall Courtyard – 10th moon of 247 AC

Routines of the Man-at-Arms are still in place for the soldiers of the falling stars. The house of Dayne is a well-known High Noble of a martial one, when they hear the name the first thought that came are of military. Their greatest legend came from the prowess of their sword arm; thus, it stands to reason that underneath lies a mastery of war.

As the Westerlands have their gold and the Reach have their Fertile lands, The Torrentine nobles are famed for their warriors and knights. Strict are their trainings here, before the sun rises usually the lord and his son would grace the yard first then come the others. Although some would be diligent enough to awoken early, for those some if they are fortunate, they would be welcomed to spar with their liege lord.

Hopeless cause it would be…

For now, half of the sun still lie on the horizon on the edge of the sea, the breeze of the night still lingers before the infamous heat came. For that, many have taken the field already, warming their bodies for the greatest of hardships. And just like the changes that came for the villages and settlements around the Dayne hold, so too are the chores and training of the Man-at-arms.

Still therein exist the old dummies and weighted blunted sword that tied neatly and some scattered over the yard of Starfall, a sign of the old ways that still have some of its uses. But the old complimented the new as well as is otherwise, as new tools and gears came that bears sign of good will between the Starfolks and the Man-at-arms of the household.

Outfits that are weighted, steel bars and burden to train the muscle and other contraption that could further strengthen the body and hearts of man. Both of such factions would spar and train together as well, exchanging culture through classes of steel and flesh. As the trust comes to bud and bloom, so too are their proficiency. It all seems too good to be true.

Though it is quite unfortunate not all beneath the shadows of the milky white walls have such experiences…

Gedric sits on the stone railing overlooking the courtyard, where he sat his gaze upon the ever-moving clangs of swords in his front. He sighed contemplatively, as the prospect of such ways are off-limits to him at this time. His body is changing, in that the knows. But whether for the worst or the better? In that he Is baffled…

Everything seems so fragile to him now, a moment ago he pushed the giant entrance to the courtyard to hard and a couple of the hinges fell off. He sworn it was an incident and he was sure he merely pushes it lightly, but His castellan gave him only an understanding statement and deign him to know that he will fix it so.

Gedric is glad his father has departed to High Hermitage on this day, if he were present, he is sure he would revoke his privilege that he just has been given. He strides lightly now, like a man tip-toing around his dwelling, afraid that he would make too much noises or breaking to many items. His father spoke that there would be an answer to his dilemma, but such belief seems to be a work in progress.

Beside him, not six feet apart is a giant of an individual, donning armor as large as his stature with nothing less of Legendary smithery. On his left chest lies a number that is of the enigma to Gedric, '104' it says, what is its implication The Young Heir of Starfall could not know…

He heard of who he is from another entity within a ship, the same Glowing Metal Eye that serve as Gedric's guardian in his confinement within Alexandria. He remembers the story of the Spartans… of how they are the champions of humanity that fought against demons that threatens the former existence with zealotry unreal and unrestrained hatred.

The query that came upon him are many, and he is excited for the mighty answer that would follow. Unfortunately, The Spartan before him came with an attitude that is to be found wanting as the only words he spoke are of the necessary kind.

"I am assigned to protect and watch over you…" The Spartan Spoke "That is all…"

Gedric threw as many questions that he can as he travels around the spaces that he is allowed to walk upon.

"Is it true that you are one of the greatest of your kind?"

"What sort of training did you do?"

"What is that armor you are wearing? Can I touch it?"

"What were the covenant like? Are they terrifying?"

"From where do you hail from? Is it far?"

All of these enquiries are casted away by the silence the Spartan persisted to equipped himself with, no matter how many times Gedric nudge him and pout on his face, The Spartan just wouldn't relent. Over all the things he asked, only one question he have answered…

"Do you have a name? What do they call you?"

"Frederick…" The Spartan answered "You can just call me Fred…"

Truthfully, his name was already known by Gedric, courtesy of his father's council. But for the sake of formality and introduction he asked it anyway, the excitement he felt when he hears the Spartan voice was exceeding. It bears mentioning that the introduction ironically has been asked after the cavalcades of questions where the Spartan is silent, so to hear his voice for one question is quite the progress for the Child.

Still, wherever he walks, the Spartan is always a few feet behind him. This in itself gave the young heir more attention than he like to be. Rarely if not at all does a child have a guardian that is being questioned if it is human or not, stalking him like he is one with his shadow. Sometimes Gedric even forgot he is being guarded, how does one move so silently underneath all that Armor? Gedric questioned repeatedly, and so does the many men and women he passed.

At least he is allowed to roam free within limits for now…

Gedric walk around the courtyard, playing with his feet with every step, looking at it as well whilst perpetually glancing on the horizon shine of the ocean back and forth. Once in a while he stopped and watch the other Man-at-Arms bout with each other, sometimes the once that are practicing with a wooden dummy as well. Every movement of their planted feet he saw, and every swing of their arm he also predicted.

"Have they always been this slow?" Gedric thought, months ago before he was abducted, he used to watch the men practice whenever he rests or in his room looking down. They are fast at the time, not as fast as his father but fast enough for him to realize that he cannot dodge as easy as when he faces the squires. It would seem to Gedric that they are sluggish in this day "Must be a slow day…" Gedric thought.

Everything does seem stable and there is seldom any particular event that necessitates great alert by the surrounding people. Infrequent are their mistrust between Starfall and the people of Alexandria, for all intent and purposes each faction seems to tolerate each other just as much as they do their own people.

Gedric mentally sighed at the moment, outrageously bored in the dull moment. He glanced at his left to find a rack of weighted blunted sword, and immediately he felt the calling. He looks around to find everyone is essentially minding their own business, except for the Spartan shadowing him of course, his alert is unrelenting, but even he must see no reason for Gedric to practice his sword arm.

"I am barred from sparring not training all together" Gedric spoke in thought.

He approached with a few swift steps and held the old grip of the blunted steel, instantly he felt the rush of blood through him. He unsheathed it from the rack and hold it aloft, "This is too light…" He whispered, putting it back whence it came. He strafes rightward and do the same to another sword.

Again, the weight is a feather…

The motion is on repeat a few times until he finally reached the edge of the frame, and at the end lies a large blunted steel, more of a Greatsword than an ordinary sword. He pulled it out swiftly and held in extend, and proceed to be in shock on how enormous the weapon actually is in hand.

By the shadows casted by the light, it is clear that it is even bigger than the size of the one who wield it. relatively two feet taller than Gedric and additionally half a wider than a regular one, he swung it in practice for a bit and still find it to be to light for its liking. Now the boy found himself smiling at the notion he is in now.

"I am strong…" He whispered in mind, he never truly thought more about it at the passing days. All he felt before are nervousness on what he could break or the pain he could cause on his strength uncontrolled. And now he wields a weapon taller than he is and with one hand where other man needed two to even carry it much more to swing it, and felt nothing but mild prideful euphoria.

He recalled the sword of Dawn that his father wields… how it is also the same type of Greatsword that he is holding. Now the prospect of becoming the next Sword of the Morning is a future that is much at ease for him, as current circumstances being judged, such titles would be his without question.

"Look!" Gedric Exclaimed towards his Spartan Guardian "I can hold it! See!" He Swung and twirl it like he does to the petty small ones he held months ago, it was agile and comes with dexterity as it is swirling on top of his head with a hand held high. On this day for the heir of Starfall, life has never felt so good.

He stopped the blade with a grip and stare at its cross guard, so many choices and decisions rambling on his thoughts. There were many sorceries that lies within the ship he was confined in, everything that is now clear as everyone saw by Starfall and its people below. He managed to watch the battle between his cousin and another Spartan as well a moon ago, and marveled how she moves like a blur of cloud all over the field.

Such powers he is attaining as well, that much is absolute. For him to be found more than just a human, but a champion of mankind as well is all the sweeter "Before I left, I spoke to the one they call Steadfast Aspirant in your ship!" Gedric spoke, tip tapping the Spartan in a circle with Glee "he says that I would be a protector of mankind! A Champion like you are! A Spartan!"

As the word escape the heirs' lips, the rigid body of his guardian winced subtly. Gedric in his glee did not spot this however, as he continued on with his excitement "My father and uncle said that it would be a promised gifts from the stars! Just as the sword of the morning did once before…" He continued "that I would become a warrior as they say in the age of heroes! Isn't that swell, sir Spartan?"

As he pushes to a stopped, Gedric almost slip and fell on his delight. The steel hand of the Spartan held him from his fall, his body stood like stone as if Gedric's weight is just thin paper. As the boy stood and recall his manners, he looked up at the intimidating figure of his guardian with a face of childish longing.

"You are a Spartan…" He spoke "But not like the other ones… Sir Steadfast spoke that you are of the old legends, that you are beheld from a line of greatness". A truest glint appeared in the boy's eyes, with a smile that are plastered with expectations. For the Spartan, he knows very well what that gaze means, a passionate stare that comes from inspiration that lies in external.

"He- it says you have lived your life as a hero. Dispatching demons is a chore for you, it says… nothing less than slaying a common bandit" He continue to spoke, the hidden fire in his voice bears no sign of quenching "You must train and practice very well to have such power… how do you do so!?"

The ever interval moments of silent came again, where Gedric look on expecting a voice and the Spartan frozen in time with no interest in humoring him. The very same is said for this one as well, as the boy stare at his stalwart caretaker albeit with a longer extension than usual, unfortunately for the heir of Starfall, his perseverance came with the same still air of hush once more as before.

However, this time a frustration decided to grace the boys' feature "Will you continue on in this Stupid Undertaking!?" Gedric stated, a voice that came with a slight shout "I know no reason for this quietness, does it harm you to voice yourself!?". This time the Spartan look to the Horizon on his left, turning his head away from the infuriated child, beckoning even more exertion from him.

"Did you not be ordered to guard me!?" He questioned "I fail to see how this also includes being silent as well!?". Again, the Spartan bear him no mind. Still interested in the roving sea he looks on, though his hands twitch slightly, perhaps he bears a slight irritation as well!?

"Fine!?" Gedric relented "This sword beckons me more than your silence, but make no mistake Sir Spartan! I intend to be the greatest sword of the morning!" He pointed comically towards his guardian, shaking his fingers to make apparent his crossness, one could say it looks slightly cartoonish. "This includes being the greatest Spartan!" He shouted with fire "Even better than you!"

The boy turns his attention back towards the Great Sword, easing his frustrated soul with a simple slash of the diagonal kind. He put himself in the Training field, a large land that stood in the courtyard of Starfall, Big enough for it to have a small skirmish bout, big enough for Gedric to look tiny by the next person that trains on the same place.

Though it did not stop some curious eyes… A child wielding a great sword is not a common sight, a noble one he may be.

With a nonchalant footing he gave two slashes to the air, his feet not in a combative stature as he is taught, testing the waters first before he dwells deep into his shadow fights. A twirl, a swing and a few lines of cuts and blocks he attempted, all he done with one hand still.

"Will you spar with me, Sir Fred!?" Gedric Asked, his spoiled tone seems to dispersed "Spartans are powerful, I saw one of you fight with my cousin Gwendal a month ago… surely you can handle me!?"

Still no answer, and every bit of patience Gedric have is thinning once more from the misunderstood disrespect of his elder protector. "Hmm…" Features of Slight mischief hold itself onto his face, and the source sprung out in a form of words "I Wish you to Spar with me! If you don't want too, you have to walk away, if you do… you'll stay!" He spoke with a moronic grin "You don't have to say a word! You see!"

The Spartan shakes his head subtly in exasperation, his body tilted slightly as he bears no will to hide his painful exhaustion of a child's demands "Kid…" He finally voices himself "My orders were to guard you only…"

Gedric chuckled with a giddy voice, his feet tip toing up and down as he thought on his success "So NOW you speak!" He flailed his arms around with the sword still in hand before another word "Finally, I am so bored in this day! Usually I train at this hour, but Father says I'm not allowed to spar with any here lest I hurt them!"

"I wanted to talk to you! But you are stubborn for… I DON'T KNOW!" He shouted slightly "But it's all done now…" Gedric looks up onto the Golden visor that guards the wearer "Alright! I guess we have to spar now!"

"No…" Spartan Fred spoke, the depth of his voice is legendary "We're not going to spar…"

"But you stayed!" Gedric complained "I said when you stayed that means we can spar! So, we SPAR!"

"I know what you said, but considering current circumstances, I took the liberty to say I decline" Fred replied, leaving almost no room for argument "Besides… your father already gave you an ultimatum. You are free to leave but NO sparring"

"Yes! But that was if I do it with other man that are not Spartans!" Gedric squealed "You are a Spartan! That means you can take me!"

"It doesn't matter, your father said no Spa-"

"You stayed!" Gedric yelled "That means WE FIGHT!" Followed by a swing of a Great sword to the left side of the Spartan-II. Eyes acknowledging the attack, swiftly dodge by a tilt that the blade almost touch his shoulders. Another attack came in a horizontal kind, Fred immediately duck and backtrack the opposite side of the swing.

"Do you have any idea what you're doing to yourself!?" Fred asked in vexation.

"I know what we are doing!" Gedric spoke, holding his sword as he is taught "We are training!". Again, he swings the same swing as he did before and Fred dodges the same way as before. This time, the Horizontal slash to the right that came way below to sweep away the ankles, a movement the Spartan caught with ease and retort with a slight jump that gave no contact but the empty winds to the blade.

Gedric however, continue on and uses the momentum to twist his body back to hit Fred's left side of the body.

No different than before, the Spartan dodged it, twirling his body backwards as the blade his nothing but air. "You're fast!" Gedric spoke with giddy, he delivered another swing again, this time a vertical one that telegraph quite failingly, Fred didn't even have to dodge as he merely strafe to the left before the boy can start to swing up and then down.

It was a serious blow to be given, as when the blade make contact with the ground, piles of hard stone shoot itself up to the air from the cracks of Gedric's making. Fred takes control and stomp his feet right on the center of the Greatsword, it cracks and shattered immediately in contact as Gedric lift it only to find half a sword in hand.

"That was my sword!" Gedric shouted, he threw down what's left of the steel hunk and look on to his Guardian with infuriated and heavy breath of anger "You're not suppose to do that! You're supposed to train with me!"

"The objective was to Protect and Watch you…" Fred spoke coolly "None of that entails any obligation to spar with you… In fact, in sparring I could've hurt you. Going against the task, no?"

"I am a Lord here!" Gedric spew out his spoiled voice "You're supposed to listen to me!"

"Your father's and my commanding officers' orders" Fred replied with deft stillness "Both of which, overrides your authority… if there are at all…"

"My mother will hear this!"

"Good" Fred spoke, not bothering to turn his head to see the boy "Than she'll know I did my job…"

The Starfall Heir gritted his teeth and closed his palm so strongly if it was anymore intense it would bleed, though none of his features presents an intimidating factor considering boyish face and all. He walked back onto the rack to grab another Greatsword that is usable, a modicum shorter than the one he had before, but still taller than him by a great margin.

He stomps his way back to his previous station and ready himself for another session of sword fling…

"Don't…" Fred said "you're not helping the both of us here"

"You're not helping anyone at all!" Gedric replied "How am I supposed to be a good Sword of the morning, if I cannot train properly!?"

"You Can't spar" Fred responded casually "That doesn't mean you can't train other ways… you were swinging your sword around, do that instead"

"But its not as effective!" Still Gedric complained, but not truly without reason "Sparring is better for my growing!"

"Growth…" Fred Corrected "And you are right… but that is still off-limits, you're going to hurt someone"

"But you're a Spartan!" Gedric replied "You can take it!"

"You're going to hurt yourself…"

"I WONT!"

"Enough…" Fred Spoke sternly "The orders to you and to me are clear… No Sparring" words with no room for a leeway to be had.

"But-"

"If you insist…" Fred said with a threat "I'm going to tell your father, good luck trying to make an excuse to go out after that"

Gedric eyes are shining yellow with the haze of from the sun, his empty hand clench and unclench with irritation unkempt and uncontrolled, his other grip his sword tighter, the hilt threatened to crack and splintered. With a single motion Gedric threw the sword to the rack, Fast and with no notion of holding back.

The wooden sword shelf breaks everywhere, splinters of wood large and small flown to the air like dispersing rain, almost nothing was left other than the swords itself, even then some of the steels are bent and dislodged unusually. The young heir glanced to his work with shame and fear, then he turns to look around.

Man-at-Arms of his father's fold and the UNSC soldiers look on with deftly stares, some lips are shaken with the other some gaze with bewildered shook. None of them dared to move, confused and in awe of the occurrence. Closing his eyes halfly Gedric ran away from the yard, towards the western part of the outskirt of Starfall. Where there are no eyes to see him.

"You're not supposed to go-" Fred's words came to slow "outside of the castle…" the second he finished Gedric's form are away enough for it to be a horizon's blur as the voice went unheeded. The Spartan sighed with exasperation, and follow suit with a casual pace.

For the other onlookers, the view that come and gone is truly one of the wonders that came this last half a year. Gedric was just a blur in their eyes as he ran past them with a falcon's stride, they even turn their head to late as he past them, fleeting wind as sure as he goes.

Though the bewildered stature did not last long, miracles come in surplus it seems for the people of Starfall ever since the… star fell…

They went back to their activities face as impassive as before, some however wonder the future of the Dayne hold with such an heir.

For the UNSC? They shake their heads of another headache they need to handle…

---

High Hermitage

Thirty minutes…

Thirty minutes is how long this aircraft that the Maester of Starfall and his lord needed to take in order to arrive to the Cadet branch of the Daynes. With destriers and the likes, the norms of the speed are usually along from several weeks to a couple of days depending on the circumstances of the visit.

But this day for Erick Dayne and Volkron it only took half an hour, just as much time as they need to go to the village beneath Starfall to visit some merchant for their playful trinkets for the children. Pelican is the name of this airship that they stand on, one designed for commercial use as the situation demand.

An odd name considering the speed and swiftness of the transportation, but for Erick's view it would seem the Avian similarities between the two is an app calling enough. As they stepped out of the vehicle and absorbed the red air of the red mountains, the soreness on his body became to dissipate just as swiftly.

They arrived behind one of the hills that shielded them from the Hermitage castle's view, no bystanders to be had for their entrance to the cadet castle, secrecy is a necessity on the current conundrum. Beyond Erick, just a few dozen meters away from his and the Pelican is a retinue of soldiers and horses, a few of them are of the UNSC.

Galad ride forward with two riderless horses beside him, "Hail Nephew!" He Spoke with heart "You came quicker than the ravens suggest!"

"A changed world uncle" Erick replied "Old measurements are to be eschewed; these aircrafts are multitude faster than the old ways of riding…"

"That I agree!" Replied The Hermitage lord "I have tried a few myself!" he gestured the horses towards the two man "We should speak of it more as we rise, yes? The other lords are awaiting on Hermitage already…"

"So, they have" Erick sighed "Volkron, how is your legs? Can you still ride?"

"Worry not my lord…" Volkron exhaled strongly as he lifts himself up to his ride "Bones are old but the spirit is just as mighty as the olden days"

"As you say" Erick replied with a quirk of a smile and a roll of his eyes, "All of you are free to leave, thank you for your escort" He spoke to the UNSC fold that accompanied him.

"No problem, sir" They spoke "Happy to help" with no time to waste, they went back towards the Pelican and flew away with just as much of a haste. Again, the unused Man-at-arms of High Hermitage gawk with the majesty of the Steel Dragon unflapping as it went away to the south horizon.

Erick sigh and shakes his head, it would seem Hermitage's man are not as used to the mystic as the Starfall ones "Eyes forward!" he shouted "All of you!". Manners taken with haste, they put their focus back at the task. Erick and Galad rode side by side with only a slight jog towards the castle.

"Alright uncle…" the Starfall Lord spoke first "have you manage to hide everything?"

"We did…" Galad replied "with the help of many of those machines and their magic, many of the ways of sorcery are hidden from both the Smallfolks and nobles alike. Caron and Blackmont have only seen only a slight of the magnificence of Hermitage"

"Very swell" Erick said "and yet… I don't think a giant conundrum such as that is not without further questioning, no?" He gestured towards the giant steel wall, gigantic as the hills around it. its height is a little bit taller than half the wall in the north, but the very fact that it is of steel making is quite the attraction in itself. Dark blue and shining, a dread for even the most prepared siege.

"Lordly is our guest, Erick. Surely of course that is one of the first course of questions they have asked…" Galad spoke.

"And how do you plead"

"I told them the truth…" Galad replied coyly "it is the hard work and trust of the man of High Hermitage"

Erick scoffed playfully "I cannot see them take than answer with good humor"

"Well of course that is just the brief elaboration that I have given them…" Galad said, his head shaking humorously on his explanation "But I gave them enough words for them to know that they would have nothing from me"

"Subtly I hope…"

"As best I can"

"Hmm" The silent reached the retinue for a moment as they look on to appreciate the splendors of the reforged castle and settlements of hermitage, as it is the same like its elder sister, the houses and walls of such have been exchanged thoroughly with stronger stones and subtle steel. The glory of the old kings of the Torrentine rivers come again.

"Very well done, uncle" Erick appreciated with a brow raised.

"I merely point the way…" Galad responded, nonchalant is his expression "the Starfolks did all the work, as it is the agreement"

"Hmm… and what of their end of the settling?" Erick asked.

"As agreed, I gave them the western part of the river coast" Galad pointed behind the hills that hides a community "Hidden from the open realm and roads, perfect for our venture".

"Tis not too far away and shielded against Hermitage?" Erick queried "they hide to greatly; supervision is a necessity against such people"

"As I do think so as well…" Galad replied "I sent my maester and some bannermen to outpost in watch of their workings, I visit every so often as well. They are not without charge …".

"That is good news" Erick said "But I wonder how many things are not visible to the plain" is what he thought. Creative and brilliant is the workings of the Star, it is not baseless to say that there are to be convenient ways of them of hidden makings. His part of the Starfolks settlement in Starfall are under watch by Manwoody and other loyal Man-at-arms whilst under perfect view from the castle. There can be no shadows in his lands.

"How is your other trade, Erick?" Galad questioned "Food and mining I've heard have been going well, how much so?"

Erick twinkled his eyes towards Volkron only for the man to respond just so.

"By the months, Starfall has produced… Uhh" A parchment summoned right from the Hip of the Maester "As much as five million worth of crops my lord..." He answered. Galad as he hears, whistled with a tilt of his head as he absorbs such drastic news, Volkron however persisted on in his elaboration.

"A million of that came from grown lettuce, another million from carrots and half a million each spinach and cabbages…" He narrowed and focus his eyes with a slump on his back as he struggled to read the last part "Ah! And two million worth of wheats, My lords!".

"Fuckin hells Erick…"

"Oh! That is not say also the meats and clean waters the Star folks have deigned us to give and learn!" Volkron spoke "It was a glorious harvest and day for Starfall, and that is just from these few moons! I'm sure in time the growth would become much more substantial given time"

"Erick… that's almost a quarter of what half of the reach can produce!" Galad adds "glorious days harken upon us, son! The Smallfolks on your end must be going to sleep with a smile every day with such results!"

The Starfall lord looks down to his horse with a smile on his face, his features calming like a breeze, lordlier than warrior "The children beneath were laughing every morning, uncle… now they've done it all day. Old fears are casted away from these Starfolks, it seems they are better stock than I thought"

"Aye! I say the same from my end, nephew" Galad replied "Though not as much as yours, I believe"

"A work of nature" Erick said "there are more hills and mountains here than space, I believe iron and steel would be your forte, uncle"

"You believe so…" Galad responded, eyes turn to face the castle that is ever more visible by the second "I believe to think so as well"

And there she stands, giant walls of strength and coming irons, the Castle of High Hermitage tall and proud. It appears taller than it is seems to be, standing on top of a giant red hill with an odd glowing glint wherever the light shine upon it. the orange hue that reflects from the lands make for some queer view, but no less of a grandeur.

"The UNSC… the Starfolks" Erick brought up the thought that he weighted within "Did they grow… impertinent on your end?"

"What…" Galad spoke incredulous "No no… they seem rather hospitable on these lands. Why? Has something happened?"

"Many things happen…" Erick answered "But nothing that we need to speak about, everything is well, the crops are magnificent, the construction of my fleet has been astounding work" There was a hidden glint in his eyes "most of them are partially steel work on water, do you know?"

"Ships?" Galad enquired "Steel? On water? How did they manage to do that? another one of those magics?"

"It was no magic…" Erick thought "It was full on metallurgy… and it can be learned" such thoughts are not spew out without discipline, better to hide knowledge lest others turn it against you. Instead, Erick said "more or less… We've no threat from the Ironborn or pirates, but if they find our lands appealing, they only find Steel and Fire. One of my ships is enough for their dozen's long boats"

"Quite an Exaggeration nephew…" Galad said his piece "But a ship is as strong as the man who man them as well, are they well trained? What kind of ship do you have?"

"With Gwendal Supervision and new knowledge from the Starfolks, the man has been Well-endowed" Erick answered "In the short time, your visit to Starfall would be due once more. It Would do well to show you rather than tell… and there is SO MUCH for you to know" there was a flash of boom on some of his words, desire of the imminent come insistent.

"Ship Cannons and Chain guns" Erick thought "What very dangerous powers…" He draws such imagery on his mind perpetually, warfare is in his blood and the curiosity of the use of such weapons at the sea is quite an excitement indeed. Sword may be his forte, but in martial his blood obeys, and it cannot stay in one proficiency.

The Gate of the Hermitage drawn open with shredding and splendid metallic sound, from a few meters away Erick has already saw the quality of work on all the construct inside and outside of his uncles' lands. Not a touch of dilapidation, and if there are, they are far to the edge of the villages and settlement. A work that in due time will be appropriately remedied.

There is one thing the Starfall lord notice…

"Where are all the people?" Erick queried "considering the splendor that surrounds us I assume there would be awed faces roaming the streets…"

"I told them to stay within their abodes…" Galad answered "Would not do well for the cause if i- we found them interacting with Blackmont's or Caron's man… to go further I also told them to keep their mouth shut if the other Lords retinue start asking questions…"

"With instructions I hope?".

"As best as I can".

"How long have they stayed here?" Another question came "It is quite a dull moment if their Man-at-Arms have nothing else to occupy their time, but I assume everything is well?".

"If they do not eat, they sleep and if they do not sleep, they spar" Galad replied "And the cycle repeats itself, the snake eats its own tail" he snorted "there will be no Brothels here… before or after Starfolks renovation. I won't let those man prancing on my land to find unsavory doings… fuckers and their cocks can eat it themselves-".

"Peace, uncle" Erick spoke with a sigh "I merely query for safe measure".

"I know I know" Galad responded "My mind has no toleration of the Baser instinct demands… so they'll find none here, much to their lords' dismay" He huft "Why they skewed them with such attention is quite a conundrum to me…".

"Easiest way to morale the man".

"Not a right one".

"You'll find me of the same opinion as well Uncle".

They chuckled at the notion "It is good to know you still hold your teaching well…" Galad said.

"It does…" Erick replied "Though I suppose it came from common moral sense than a lesson itself… it's not that difficult to find such things to be uncouth and sickening considering we are of a noble stock".

"Is that vanity I hear?" Galad stated humorously.

"Once in a while" Erick responded with a calm smile.

They dismount their horses as they arrived at the castle stables, the stable boy looks on in wonder as much a boy can have to be in a lordly presence. Equipped with garments clean and sharp very unlike what the boy with his stature should be, the influence of progress has been spread and shared rather well as Erick could see.

"Have you decided on when the council would take place "Erick enquired.

"A couple of hours from now" his uncle replied "It would do well for you to get your bearings though clear as you seem to be now, I'm sure you can find other thoughts and ideas in mind as you take your brief rest… no need to coil hardly, the day is still young".

"Thank you, Uncle" Erick spoke "After it is done, we should speak more regarding the UNSC presence here… Regardless of the result of the decision maybe between the Red Mountain alliance, I believe that is a much more important issue".

"I see…" Galad nods "So you have decided then…"

"I do…" Erick replied "They are good man… but we don't need them anymore, and we need as much space as we can get"

Galad exhaled with a sigh "They would not take it lightly…"

"Yes, I thought so too…" Erick looks on towards the steel door that barred the entrance to the castle halls "Are they behind those entries right now?"

"No" Galad responded "They would be in their chambers, resting. Or in the Gardens perhaps…"

"That is very good to hear" Erick spoke "I have no interest in bandy tongue in my arrival"

But just as the Starfall lord hand almost touch the hinges of the entrance, he froze in his steps, a recall in his thoughts of essential comings, that subsequently lighten and harden his features ever so slightly. He turns back towards his uncle with his eyes on the ground, appearing uncertain with a tilt of his head to push out the words…

"The king sent me a letter some time ago…" Erick finally disgorges out his voice "One of the lords within your castle has reported to him regarding our queer transactions with them… It is safe to assume that before we procure this meeting with them, they have sent a raven or two regarding our… odd progress and dealings"

Galad listened on, face as impassive as the steel wall beside him.

"Everything is going terribly well Uncle" Erick continued "it will be not long until the smile turns to even a greater laugh for all people of the south. The trade with the summer islanders has been tremendous, and some traders from the stepstones and other Essosians have been more than just profitable… for once in maybe thousands of years, our house is becoming closer to the greatness it once had…"

Galad colly release a smile to his face, calming stride within as he voices his addition "I would even go as far as to say that we already have…" Galad added "perhaps even more so in time…"

Erick nodded, but his piece is not yet over as he said "It won't be long until the other kingdoms… the Martell's, to start demanding answers for our growth" The sun's light extended Erick's shadow as he goes on "We are far from the Iron throne as we can considering our previous circumstances, but the second the great lords smell something amiss they would barge in unwelcomed… it is imperative that we delay this knowledge as long as possible…"

Galad nodded in kind…

"At the very least until we are sure we can grasp it within our hands in absolution..." Erick added "And we won't let the Cutthroats around the Iron throne to take that away from us… I won't let viper speak and shadow bladed words to be near our lands"

"I understand, nephew"

"This is ours" Erick said, cape shining with his confidence "This is our providence"

In their agreement, Erick inhaled the breezing air as the coiled stress is leaving his body. With bated breath cast away….

He opened the door…

---

River beside Starfall…

Gedric crouched near the open river, the current as swift as the pace of a roaming stampede of wild horses. A strong and healthy river came from how fast they rode to the ocean or away from it. what is important is that they move, as his father notion repetitively in many things, swordplay, dancing and even love and politics alike.

"A stale water is a diseased one" His father said once "to stay still is too stagnant… and there is no growth in life without movements, so you must act"

He grasps the nearest pebble right beside his feet, feeling its plebian heft before the throw that divides the river current. It does not flick and bounce like the usual kind when he saw Gwendal do the same, in his hands instead it sliced the water apart enough for the ground to show itself for a sweet second. It is a shallow water still, but it is a clean cut of a gulf

Whispers is heard and Gedric glance around for its source, this is not the main river where the villagers or any kind of Smallfolks would visit for livelihoods, but often do other ilk would spend their time for a short of calming respite. And as he thought he saw them all, Children with their mothers and lazy fisherman alike, gawking with irksome faces.

"Purple eyes… glow"

"Arms… Strong"

"Stay away…"

Is what some of the words Gedric could hear, horror and wonder alike in a form of a whisper. He would've thought it a compliment of some kind some time ago, of his strength and proficiency in the warrior field, but with present circumstances that has happened, it has been more of an intense nuisance than a hopeful petty glory.

He took another one of the pebbles littered around him, half a mind to just fling them towards the annoying spectators for their insolent whispers. Unfortunate that the stones turn to dust in his hands, a grip that is held to strong, a dreadful reminder of his powers uncontrolled. It could've been a hand… his mothers or his brothers, bleeding incident that-.

A crack of stone sound behind him, and Gedric turns with a speed out pacing the wind.

"O-oh!" another boy spoke, standing a few feet away from Gedric "Its you!... Greetings…"

Therein he stands, the second son of the blue hawk and with a bearing of a noble stature, gesture and garments alike. As is his Sigil, he wore blue in all kinds, coated tunic drab with regal boots and gloves, none of his skin is shown safe for his face and hair. They stood there staring to one another, awkward and bewildered in their meetings, before a voice present them from the obstinate stupor.

"What are you doing here?" Gedric huft, turning his attention back towards the river, no deign to the Fowler.

"I heard some odd sounds around here… That was you?" Franklyn asked, voice cracked with a child's tone, nervous pacing of his feet tapping to the ground.

"No one else here but me throwing stones…" Gedric replied lazily "I figured that is what you hear?... can't see others doing noisy mess around…"

"No… I believe its just you" Franklyn said, head a scratched. They stood in ever silent once more, seemingly in an impasse in what to say to each other. Gedric by the second grew impatient and anxious as well, confused on how to approach in such odd bout of conversation, until a topic spring to mind.

"Umm… I'm sorry…" Gedric said.

"Huh?" Franklyn enquired "For what?"

"The nose… many moons ago" Gedric recalled "You know… when we spar"

"Oh…" Franklyn sigh in his recollection of the memory, his face grudged in a feature very much in disgust of himself, tilting his head to the side with loose hands around him "I… I already forgot about that… you don't have to say anything"

"Uhh…" Gedric scratched his head "Sorry… I didn't mean to remind you"

"It's alright"

Another uncomfortable hush threatens to blanket them once more before the Fowler boy decides to take his chance with his query. "Gedric…" Franklyn spoke, the Starfall Heir perked his ear up on the voice, this is the first time someone else other than family speaks his name "Can I ask you something?"

"…Alright, I am free at the moment anyway" Gedric nonchalantly replied, eyes still on the river.

"What happened inside the ship?" Franklyn spoke his query finally.

The river current speaks louder than before as the words escaped Franklyn's lips, and Gedric froze in mystery of how he would reply. The way the waters swirl straightly towards the sea mesmerize him, and in such moments make him forget of the question that has been asked. But there is no escape, and for once perhaps there are others, he could talk to about his troubles…

And yet….

"I'm not allowed to say anything about that…" he finally replied "I promised my mother and father I would keep it in the family"

"Oh…" Franklyn looks down, disappointed in his quest "Well… alright I guess".

They spent the coming moments in silent, Franklyn's hand behind him entwined and Gedric awkwardly examining the rock he held somewhat oddly. Calming is the serenity around the river, very unlike the despondent circumstances of the lordly heirs beside it. uncomfortable the silence kept permitting until the heir of Starfall continue on, on his rock skipping.

He paltrily use a little force, and the water divides to make way for the forceful stone…

Another one goes…

And another one…

And then a voice…

"How did you…" Franklyn breaks the silence "How did you do that?"

"Do what?" Gedric asked, seeping anxiety dissipates slightly by every word spoken.

"No! I…" Franklyn finished his unfinished words with a shake of his head, not a gesture of disagreement, in fact he looks for another pebble just the same as his Starry counterpart. He threw it as he found several, and the stone skipped with a slight number of bounce before it drowned to the shallow waters.

"You did that better than me!" Gedric congratulated the trivial act.

"No!" Franklyn said "Not like you! Here! Try it again!"

"Uhh…" Gedric took the offer with incredulous expression mired the same as his mind ere before he speaks the word "Very well…"

Another lash of his hand and arm and the waters separates as it did before, the wet dirt beneath is as visible as his previous notion of the throw. Franklyn stood there, eyes agape with his lips shut tightly as his lordly decorum struggled to keep it pace.

"THERE!" The Fowler shouted "How did you do that!?"

"I just throw it…" Gedric answered with no spirit in his tone.

"Yes but…" Red is the face of the Fowler boy, very unlike the color of his banner "It divide the water!"

"I…" Gedric words ambushed by his principle of secrecy as it clogged in his throat "I can't tell you any-"

"Here!" a cavalcade of stone, bigger than the rest is given to Gedric. These ones as large as the palm of his hand "Uhh… throw it to that tree over there!"

"Why!"

"Because it's amazing!" Franklyn spoke with no proper elaboration "Quick throw it!"

Gedric felt a tint of excitement there, a mutual understanding of primal joy between two children that beckon through odd endeavor. No words said, he shrugged and threw it casually to the nearest three, one thick enough to held against a storm. As the stone reach its bark, a sound of slight boom of splinter covered its surroundings, and wooden ant sized palisades littered the air.

There is a hole where there should be a sturdy bark before

"See!" Franklyn noted the palpable that comes before the demand "How do you do that!? tell me!".

"I told you!" Gedric replied "that I cannot tell you!... that is…"

"Why not!" Franklyn asked, face scrunched with childish dejection "does it have something to do with the ship!?"

"Yes!" Gedric slipped "WAIT! NO-"

"I knew it!" Franklyn replied in curious joy "they say that the Steel star is another gift from the gods to bless the Torrentine lords from the promise of the olden days! A blessing of power!".

"I thought so as well, but my father says bollocks on it!"

"So are many others and just as many that said otherwise…" Franklyn said "either way it must be important!"

Gedric gaze on the fowler was nothing less of lunacy and frustration, still he tries to decline the rising tide of folly with a few words that he can manage. "It's not that!" He voiced "it's something else! I was chosen for something!".

"Go on…" The Fowler Paralyzed himself as he listened. His pupils unmoving for Gedric's elaboration.

"I…" Gedric froze "I can't tell you…"

"What…" Franklyn "Is that ALL you can say!? Are there nothing at all you can tell me!?'"

Gedric shakes his head, frustrated just as much as the hawk beside him "This is not my choice to be so!" He huft "Why do you keep asking me such questions!? Why are you even here!?"

Silent and windy is the moment for a fragment of time, Gedric looks to the ground still, very much as anxious and questionable as it has perpetuated multiple times before. Not a state he wishes to be in, but it is not something he could choose.

"There is a giant steel above your home…" Franklyn spoke "flying steel littered above your castle roof, man carrying magical spears cast away from the ship and they also have the powers to turn your lands into green fertile soil…. What is it that you hide that goes beyond that?"

Whispers and whistles of birds scattered on the area, the rustling of the trees drum together with the chirping. Smallfolks and Man-at-Arms alike are around the land before both lordly boys, but they are far from where they stationed, and doubtful they have interest on the converse of children barely out of infancy.

"I am no grown lord…" Franklyn continued "But I'm no fool to see that what has happened is nothing less than magic!" High-pitch is his voice, excitement and pleading "will you not share something on your bounty?"

"It's not my bounty…" Gedric replied "It's my fathers…"

"But the people said that you are chosen-"

"The people don't know anything…" Gedric responded "They don't know what they did to me inside there! I don't know what's going on at all!" He sat near the small coast of the river, hands on his knees "my father know more…. And he rarely speaks to me of it, he said I am too young"

Franklyn sighed and sat beside him, both looking at the river that shines with a mediocre beauty, the same kind of elegance found in every river, shining reflection of the white sun that clashed against its transparent woe.

"I was inside that ship to you know…" Franklyn kills the silence "I saw many mystical parts on my stay there… when everyone was awaiting your father… when they are waiting for you"

"Really?" Attention summoned, Gedric's turn to be curious "What did you see!?"

"Many…" The hawk boy replied "there was light that seems to rise from below, I saw floors flying so fast upwards and downwards and these… uhh… and those very same carriages your people and those Starfolks use!"

"Warthog…"

"Huh?"

"They are called warthog" Gedric said "The cars or trucks you see my Man-at-Arms and the Starfolks used right!? They are called warthogs"

"Warthogs…" Franklyn repeated "They move without horses"

"They use machine called 'Engines' inside them to convert fuel into energy…" Gedric answered "The same energy to move it without horses, which is why they don't need horses! Because horses are like energies and they don't need horses because they can get the energi-"

"Yes! Yes, I understand" Franklyn interjected, disbanding the coming rant "So… so you know what they are!? What they all are?"

"Yes of course…" Gedric answered, a miniscule of spirit intoned "when I was bored inside the ship, the metal eye steward usually gave me this thing called computers to let me learn about many things…"

"M-Metal eye!?"

"YES" Gedric spoke with a chuckle "And it FLIES!"

"What else! What else!?"

"OH OH OH, and these flying steel birds above! They are called Drones! And-"

How easy it is a connection came and went like the current of waters, many things they carry, useful and useless just the same. Some rivers could deliver something great indeed! One that could be called precious if one could see or examine rather thoroughly. How curious what the current may bring in its indifferent stride…

Perhaps it could even bring a friend!

Both Lordly boys sat beside the river as time slowly goes by…

A couple of laughs or two, or perhaps a chuckle for the wonders in which they speak…

For Gedric… his great future is certain when he was born, and greater it became when he is chosen by the Steel Star…

For Franklyn?... He has no inclination of an idea how the line of his future became distorted and boundless…

The very second, he spoke a word to Gedric, his destiny became Decisive…

He will find more than just a friend… and he will become more than just a hawk…

Beyond… not far from where the boys sat, a steel figure looms beneath the tree… golden visor still shining… listening…

It matters not, for the ordinary people that looks from afar… he might as well look like a distorted tree…

---

High Hermitage

Erick stands on the edge of the room where the council may take place, looking upon the artistic hole to look below the Castle to see the working of technology slowly empowering each house and construct of his cadet house. It pleases him briefly, as every second his place of lordship enhanced by the second, as the people flown the rumor of his deeds and actions.

The work of the machinery came from the Starfolks, but their work in these lands is ongoing under his words. He made sure the Smallfolks acknowledge that, he made sure EVERYONE knows that. his sit of the Red Mountain must be true for him to capitalize on this odd claim of power. His wife has done her duty as well, The Small sept and all the settlements know who to thank, regardless where the power came from.

He hears the footsteps getting louder, a small boom of a feet firmly and fully planted on the floor, sturdy and unwavering, just the way a lord should walk, and it is becoming closer by the second. Erick found himself in unfamiliar grounds, all that practice of speech as he re before this meeting fading in and out every miniscule instant.

The proposition and facts on what this council entails are laughably ridiculous… Strange and unacquainted, Erick stands on vivid grounds, and he found himself worry more than a little. But there is no time for more lull as the door swung open to greet the lords of the Red Mountains.

There is the lord of Nightsong… Baryon Carron.

The sigil of the nightingale on his coat, edged and beautiful that have seen a thousand battle, as the song suggest of course. He stood straight with a subtle pride, no use flaunting it about, an act that breeds more exhaustion than self-pleasure and grandiose. In that regard, Erick can respect naturally as it is a sentiment both share vehemently.

He wears a black overcoat with greyish outline that shade and glows beautifully yet no hint of grandeur. Enough to show his station, but no interest in presentation of splendor. For Lord Caron, such attention only baits the unwanted and he appreciate a time not wasted. His face is impassive, but his brow seems to lift itself high in all times, a perpetual solemn look, like a man facing battle every day.

He is close to the end of his middle-age, the hint of grey on his mustache greatly flatters his somber dour look…

Another one is the Lord of Blackmont… Landon Blackmont.

An easy smile on his face, very unlike his vulturous sigil. A glorious tunic and a trouser, well-decorated but not at all imposing, "Must be that face of his…" Erick thought. There are gold and jewels on the shoulder, but nothing eye rolling… Or perhaps Erick just did not much care nor known of what is truly to be considered sophisticated in clothing.

He is young for his age of early thirties and His hair is black, not as raven as Erick or Gedric, and the grey on his eyes are taunting that Erick found it a sore. Rarely do the Starfall lord or even anyone could hold a conversation so long with a persisting eye contact, those eyes are always challenging regardless on how friendly the disposition of the circumstances may be.

And that easy smile won't help either… by the second, Erick thought that this meeting would be more than just unpleasant…

Before them stands Galad, taking his seat in the center of the table. As per etiquettes demand, he is the lord of this castle, even though Erick is his better by station and rank. With no interest in stalling, Erick continued his plot with a gesture, and Galad nods his head followed by a voice.

"Welcome…" Galad Said "let us waste no time at all, please take your seat…"

Blackmont and Caron look to each other, the former still resides the playful smile and the other just as impassive as ever. They break their look and take their respective seat, Caron on the right where flowing curtain and rays of light breaking through and clash with the floor. Blackmont took the otherwise, where the light lingers on the air but the shadows take more space. Both take their seat without speaking.

Erick however, decides to stand at all times. Just beside his uncle, an emotionless feature and a font of calm energy on his figure…

As Landon lean on his chair, he decides to break the short silence. "I must say… I have been in many quiet coterie, some more unique than the other. Big company and otherwise… yet, I have never been in a place that have such a unique set of ambiance as it is on present company…" He gestured lightly with his hands "It was rather lively the last time I was here! Now I see and hear more silence and odd makings all over the place! Ah! I have so many questions!" He finished playfully.

Baryon interjected "I've found myself in quite an agreement with Landon… it seems changes have occurred since my last visitation to here and Starfall… I would presume that would be one of the reasons this council prevailing?"

Erick stood and silent, no appeal in voicing his concerns and opinions as of yet….

"You are correct, Lord Caron" Galad answered "I apologize if both of your stay here has been less than socially accommodating, I and my nephews' circumstances has been rather… tumultuous…"

"It is alright…" Landon exclaimed "Your other accommodation has been more than adequate, quite the attraction I must say, a contraption that controls a weather of the room and lamps that are capable to be lighted without a fire is indeed a peaking activity for me to study… not to mention other things that I have not cited…"

"It pleases me to hear that…" Galad replied, a statement well-rehearsed as just many hosts have said "We may be missing our task on some parts on hosting but I'm glad we could repay it in other kinds of adjustments for your pleasant stay…"

"Yes… curious… very curious" Landon spoken "But it seems my manners have been absent these last few seconds, what am I saying! I wish to enquire many things, but I'm sure we have more time for such events after this official business… this is an official council am I correct?"

Baryon sat as he listened, trying to find the words whilst waiting for the right time to voice it…

And Erick is still silent as a statue…

"I would believe it to be so, Lord Blackmont" Galad replied "As I'm sure here, these last few months there have been many developments that may both directly and indirectly effect… our dealings on our Red Mountain contracts…"

He fidgets slightly, the Nightsong lord. He tasted and chip his lips as he hears the words, regardless of his painful effort to look disgruntled, the High Hermitage Lord carries on "For a century, our houses have provided the folks of all bearings in the dread of the red mountains with much needed provisions for their livelihoods…"

He continued on "My house has been nothing less filled with gratitude over all of your actions in such times… and beyond all doubt we have also tried our best to repay in kind".

And thus comes the words of finality, stuck in his throat, the dread of uncertain poison of insult spun in his mind. Truly he is struggling to reach the proper words to end this rightly and without subtle animosity, but a sword is straight, and Galad can never find the words without pain except for a straight line that eases the passing.

"I know not of the proper voice to tell… so I will submit it plainly" Galad exhaled "We are ending the Red Mountain contract as of this day, hence forth the House of Dayne will no longer trade with the seat of Nightsong and Blackmont that are depicted in the Contract of the Red Mountain…"

Landon smirked wider that has led the shake of his head, he extends his hands away, expressing a state of bewilderment and astound. No longer he leans, his posture straight as he recovered his bearings, with his eyes half open as it bore to the Lord in acting before him. And just so Is his mouth halfly agape, wanting to speak his mind but clashing is his thought to reply.

Baryon closed his eyes, pale wind in his throat like a passing winter that bears horrid news. Forlorn is his state as of now, confusion shone upon his figure, not summoned but persisting as such state is revealed even before he arrived at the Gates of Hermitage. Wrinkle straightened and eyes reopened, he looked upon the master of the Castle to cast his words away at last…

"So sudden is this development, Lord Galad…" Baryon said "I found myself in a very state of worry… concern that is, for my house…" He raised them both upward, a feature of an old man with wisdom "You have given much interest in your payment from previous transactions… but there are many pending rations, materials and others, that are awaiting in my stead and house. Surely you would not abandon such boon…"

"We have no need of it…" Galad answered "Whatever boon you have for us, it would be wise for you to use it as your own".

Baryon respired with a disgruntled voice "I have consumed and gave away many treasures to acquire those… surely you would not put me in such a discontented position?!"

"Of course, not…" Galad replied "As I said we are willing to repay in kind with utmost levity for every actions you have done, whether direct or otherwise…"

"And how in-"

"We are willing to pay five-hundred thousand gold dragons for this cause…" The Hermitage lord spoke "half a million… that is, twenty to twenty-two years' worth of payment…"

Great is the number that has been spoken as Baryon look on with dumbfounded amazement. The wind that carries the curtain stopped as if the world deigned to listen to the exchange, with mighty thoughts assailing both Caron and Blackmont lord in what have occurred in such a short moment in life for this change.

"That's…" Baryon spoke "Unbelievable…"

"Truly… this is" Landon smile never breaks, but his words slipped and fall perpetually "I am without words… This exchange is uniquely for Lord Caron?"

"Nay…" Galad slightly shakes his head "tis for both of ye… yes, this includes you as well lord Blackmont…"

The Vision of contact breaks, and Landon look on towards Baryon briefly before staring of onto the walls. Veiled still is his notion of shape, no one could truly read the lord of Blackmont. Galad can never know how to truly approach him, not a speck of it. No anger… No glares of contempt… All smile and ease of eyes.

Erick is still not moving…

"Perplexing! This is Perplexing! Nothing less than such!" Landon breaks the silence "This is a high castle, Lord Galad… in my room I saw the fields of your people are rife with green and farm where there shouldn't be… where there was a barren red field of rock and sand".

He smacked the table lightly before continuing on with tone of esteem "I saw your man-eating meat in their own keep! They drool their lips rotten like pigs as they munch through what should be two days' worth of food!" He flaunts his eyes and head everywhere. To the guards that kept the door, to baryon and Erick until it falls back to Galad.

"Outrageous this is!... your proficiency may be in marshal Lord Dayne, but you are no fool in logistics. There can be no reason for your Man-at-Arms to be fed such imperial feed unless… unless…"

Landon stopped his words, looking sorely unto Erick with wolfish eyes, a gesture that have not been returned, as the Sword of the Morning merely showed his left cheek on the astonished heated exchange. Baryon however interject to equate more on this odd change of system.

"Is it the Hightower?" The Caron asked in interjection "have you finally found yourself in a profitable exchange with ilk of the reach?"

"That is not possible…" Landon breaks in "I know the whispers on the reach… the contempt is still strong on the battle isle… even the Cuy still linger in resentment. Whatever is this progress of prosperity lies south rather than the west". He returns his look to Erick "Is it the summer islander? The Stepstones perhaps? Did your house find solace and affluence in the arms of an outsider?".

Erick is still… but he raised his brow slightly.

Galad however, held no sign of discomfort on the presumptuousness "I will not bear the explanation on this event, all that I can relay is that all parties in this agreement will be more then recompensed. Half a million Gold Dragons is nothing to be scoffed at after all, and I do not intend to offend to say that it is more than each one of you can earn in this shirked contract or on your own, no?".

Baryon sighed "Not even an elaboration on what raised this occurrence?" He eyed both the lord of Starfall and the master of the present castle "Would it not be better to alter the deal as to accommodate all parties rather than disregarding it all together? Whatever events happened for this to happen? Should we not question the suddenness of this?"

If not for the weakness it might represent, Galad would have rubbed his forehead harshly "My lords, I am familiar with the abruptness of this circumstances, which is why I offer an outrageous amount of wealth on purpose… must I repeat the profit on such numbers can give to each of your house? It would cover any expenses on our behalf many times over, I see no reason to take such".

Galad intended to finish it thus, but another point came before the sealed lips "it bears mentioning that the goods you prepared for us could be sold of to another consumer that are in need, Dorne is a harsh land after all which bears no need of mention at all, the Yronwood or the Fowler would bless your hearts if you would provide them, all the more profit to your coffers, yes?"

Baryon looks more bewildered with no hint of sadness in his visage "this is all so… odd…" He spoke "All the more of it, that we came here on the intention for your second son's birth as well. I did not expect such callous start…".

"Please, do not speak such things…" Galad replied "There are no means of offend on this converse, I truly wish I could do tell on the circumstances of our actions but to do so would be to show weakness to the rest of Westeros." He continued on "Simply put we no longer have the means and temperament in continuing this deal and so forth it is a necessity to default as a wise decision…"

Eyes on Galad still, both guest lords raised their brow while the master of Hermitage still spoke on "Perhaps in these spoken words it may seem there are a lack of wisdom in elaborating such weaknesses to this present company. But for the respect and the honesty that we have all these years, I believe all of you deserve at least for that knowledge…"

"Weakness?" Landon spoke face flabbergasted "Weakness…" he recurred "There is a giant steel wall… span from mountain to river…!" He said softly, a stern voice but not a loud one "You have lamps that does not need fire… You have Machines that spills breeze air on each room in your castle... And your Villages, those once decrepit houses are replaced by stronger stones, please do tell me which part of that spell's weakness, Lord Galad?"

"You will be OVER-COMPENSATED, Lord Blackmont!" Galad interjected "I FAIL to see why we are in need for this to be such an overreached issue!? Do you wish for more than Gold!?"

"My people need this contract as well Lord Dayne"

"If you need such foods and goods then you may continue on without house Dayne in the contract, I do not see why you shouldn't continue as such?".

"No…" Landon spoke relentless "I believe I wish to know more on this development of yours, My Lords" Ended with a venom "I suggest an alteration of the deal… other than a straight cancellation…"

"Five hundred THOUSAND gold dragons!" Galad spoke with a soft shout "You would abandon such prosperity?"

"Such huge numbers, Galad…" Baryon interrupt once again "I wonder what else you both are hiding…" He looks to Erick by the end of the statement "What news of Starfall, I wonder. Why are we not allowed to visit the land of the fallen star?".

"My son is there as well…" Landon spoke "I assume you wouldn't bar me for retrieving my own son, do you? If I may speak with the relevant topic in hand?".

"Hmm…" Galad and Erick looked to each other with face inexpressive still. Silent came to the room that once was filled with harsh transactions of dispute, the bright yellow elegant bloom of the light betrayed the tension, and coiling curtains snap and twist from the mountainous wind. The quietness is undispersed for more than a minute until the lord of the castle bandy word once more "Perhaps… first I have to ask… what do you have in mind?" He spoke.

"That is the question isn't it…" Baryon spoke with specifics "Call it… an action of old faith on our contracts of livelihoods"

"And what act would that be?" Galad questioned, squirming in his main seat.

"An orientation!" Landon spoke a soft smile still remains "As a fellow friend and lord, I am interested on any points of interest that have occurred…"

Erick and Galad once again looked upon each other, the latter make a gesture, one that spoke of friendly conceding. He stands from his seat and spoke "Excuse me… there are many faculties I must prepare…" with those words Galad walked away, onto the door and lose himself to the edge and darkness of his peculiar seat of power.

Landon and Baryon watch and listen as their host lose from their sight, though they turn their sight back to the seat of the hermitage house, to find the Lord of Starfall scraped the chair to make room for his bosom before the word catapulted out of his tongue "Quite outstanding how much you circle around the conversation…" he spoke "I counted three times"

"Perhaps we haven't found the answer we are looking for" Landon Replied "I am prepared for another turn if you like?"

"I would be amused if I am not frustrated…" Erick leans forward "though I must demand one act before the knowledge"

"And that would be?" Landon queried, both lordly visitors lean forward in odd anticipation…

"There is so much I can share…" Erick said "First… there are oath you must swear. A powerful one, a vow so strong you compromise your blood and noblesse if ruin comes from your deed of perfidy…".

"You have no power over that…" Landon thought, but a speculation betrays him, what if… "You shouldn't have such powers… couldn't"

Staggered are their features, Landon and Baryon narrowed their eyes, the latter whip away his lips "why?" Baryon asked "Is your celebration of your second sons birth a lie?"

"No…" Erick answered simply "The feast will come, but we have other business to make quick work of…"

---

Starfall Castle – Main Hall

It was not a full chamber, but it is more than a lively one. All the Smallfolks gathered in and out of the hall for request and aid for their liege. Great is the Hall, Pillars of White Stone neatly scattered all over, the brushing sunlight pierced the window hole onto the shining silver floor. On the top there she stands, Red refined with noblesse dress, the color of Autumn neatly splattered and dimmed all the way onto her feet.

One moves out of his line, onto the empty part of the hall where the lady of the house observed the lone march. As the man arrived at his spot, he took to his one knee and spoke his appeal with a voice as fair as he can make "Milady" He begins "I speak now humbly as your servant, in that I appeal to you in grace…" He raised his eyes to meet the lady's, awaiting her command, awaiting her permission to persist.

"Go on Goodman, I will hear it" Leyna spoke, voice of a maiden-fair.

"My brother" He squealed out struggling to retain his calm mien "Ill made is his stature… an incident has occurred on our work on the fields. He lost his legs milady; they can barely move… it has been three days and it has not shown any sign of ample recovery…"

"Three days?" Leyna enquired "Why have you wait this long on your account?"

"Fear my lady… fear of insolence" The Man Spoke "You have given so much-"

"Lord Dayne" Leyna corrected "I and Lord Dayne"

"Y-yes milady" The man yelped "Milady and milord has given boon outrageously; we were frightened that further aid would be an insult to you, I not meant to be arrogant and the like…" He looks down as he continued "But my kin's conditions have worsened… and his feet is turning black by the hour, I fear if it's not fully treated, he would lose his legs…" He looked back onto Leyna "And then… His life…"

"This is as redundant as they come…" Leyna replied "You have been provided such places for such treatments…"

"Milady?"

"On the west of this castle and the city below lies a place of healing" She said "My lord husband has procured such faculties for the use of you people and anyone under the Banner of the Falling Star. If you wish to be healed than make no further request to me and walk straightly towards such dwelling, no need for my council!" Leyna shouted to all in the chamber, the voice bellowed and blow to be carried and bounced from walls to walls.

"This include you as well, Goodman" Leyna returns his attention to the man "Know that any work of the mystic and legends you see before you as you walk onto this castle, the place of healing would be just as grandiose and valuable" She smiled "Your brother will properly heal there…"

"OH! Thank you, Milady! Thank you!" The man spoke, awaiting permission for his leave.

"Ser Galtan" She called, and a knight with armor much like the Starfolks appeared beyond the white pillar, Black and carved with keen, a lordly clad. "Please escort this man and his brother to the Hospital" Leyna whips his notice back towards the others "And to any of you who seeks the same, follow this man to his destination. I will hear no redundant request!".

They congregate together, troubling folks of illness and pain flocking towards their inferred destination. Many requests of such followed, outrageous and otherwise. Lady Dayne persisted in her vigor as much as she could, until the light of the evening dissipates on the horizons gate and the red dusk follows suit.

"That will be all…" Leyna declared "I found this day contemptible" she said, and the Smallfolks fiddled on her shout. "Begone all of you! Away from my castle! I will hear no more request of respite unless you deserve it, there has been nothing less than useless bid this day… I will no longer hold council on this week! Now begone!".

Her fury comes from flakes of frustration that diminished for every peasant that departed from her halls, many things she has given for this half a year and her husband absent have given her to much toll on task. "Lloyd" She called, towards an Arms man "Tell the Castellan that any future enquiries for this one week will go to him for now, and made the quota small nothing more than a hundred".

"Yes, my lady"

"Very good" she said, coiling her forehead softly. The enquiries as of late has been bizarre and rambunctious. Many faculties provided have made such logistical choices much more complex and she has less to no room in her mind for the Starfolks oddities, perhaps some day the time will come for familiarity, but to many has happened for her to concentrate on any lordly dealings when loved ones are in danger.

When the Starfall halls are cleared for any unwelcomed foot, she departed towards the western river shores. Where the man of the stars has borrowed for their settlement, the noises of their construction may not hinder her slumber but it is queer enough that she had troubling dreams.

Her walk towards them has been less than eventful barring the steely and splendorous view of the buildings and construct they have erected. The contrast of both shores is quite the spectrum, on the east where the Smallfolks lie is filled with well built structures of steel and stone for civil use, whether houses or markets, even now they dress with dignity as great as a wealthy merchant. Coiled tunics of blue and gray, fresh as a mountain water.

On the west only lies pure steel, some as tall as a quarter of a high hill or a small mountain. White, blue and gray, some assume to be the color of their house or fallen kingdom. Many of their faculties still troubled her, the persistency of their art eluded the man and woman of this world but they have been nothing but kind even if they are cold.

Rarely do they spoke with the commons, when they do, they did it quickly and depart a way where the wind would put them back towards their western steel, quick work and quick answers. As she walks nearly towards the bridge that neared her to the west river, she welcomed a familiar face.

"Lady Leyna…" Gwendal spoke first "Dusk is clear on the skies… yet you are here?"

"I've grown curious on the craftmanship of our visitors…" She answered "I need wisdom in their work if they are here to stay, no? hence why I am here…"

"I see…" Gwendal said thoughtfully "Well I must depart on my own, I wish you well my lady"

"Are you?" The lady retort "To where?"

"My duty lady Leyna" He answered "Your firstborn"

"Ah of course… you took the evening part"

"That I am… you need not worry he is safe with me"

"Thank you ser…" She exhaled her breathe with worry "please guard him well… he is troubled with unusual events…"

"You need not say… he is family"

"If anything happens to him… anything small or large…"

"I will consult it with you"

"Very good…" Leyna said, her hands coiled "I will see you then"

As Gwendal stride towards his task, the lady walked on in exploration. It was all fascinating to her, fascinating and terrifying. Everyone here always has a task in hand, all anchored towards certain duty, on all task there are always a man to take its position.

One knight is steadfast in his watch, a Westerosi of Dorne, one that is entrapped in these lands just as any other knight.

"Ser Manwoody" She called "What news from the Starfolks…"

"Lady Leyna" He answered, food still in his mouth as he stands "Forgive me it is unknown that you would come"

"It is no matter… I would be much gladdened if you would humor my queries…"

"Of course, my lady, what do you need to know?"

"Anything ser… you have been posted here; I would like to know any news you have claimed".

"Would it not be wiser to council with The Starfolks officer her?"

"In time, for now I would like to know your view"

"Very well then…"

She hears everything that she needs to know and try her best to understand as much she could. Some knowledge new and others mere information that confirms outlandish rumors, though with such advances that has been made on this land of Starfall and also High Hermitage, it became less and less peculiar.

They walked together as Manwoody inform her, his tales subsumed with the clear evidence that is around her. Dry and dead land turns green, steel walls that is made within days perhaps even hours and weapons of enraptured thunder than could claim a life from afar, even the Maesters knowledge of all arts is faded with such comparison.

"It is nothing less than remarkable my lady… what have occurred here on your lands is nothing less than revolutionary" Manwoody stated "I and Gwendal have seen the resources the Starfolks can procure in a day… if they persist, you may rival Highgarden in a year!"

"That is not to speak of their weapons…" She added.

"Their weapons!" Manwoody exclaimed "Unnatural as much as it is powerful, I've seen what it can do… have you, my lady?"

"I have"

"If your people have such weapons… it would be… you would be unrivalled!"

"We already have…" Leyna answered coolly.

"What…"

"We have, the UNSC has given us the thunderous weapons no less a month ago… an act of peace and alliance mu husband says" Leyna noticed the knights scrunched features "You are uninformed?"

"N-no my lady i…" Manwoody's eyes narrowed in confusion. "No one has spoken of this…"

"No? Master Orlo and other Knights under my command have sent hundreds of my men to train with such weapons on the barracks of the eastern shores" Leyna said "The weapons are loud and destructive; a farther field is necessary less it disturbed the common man… I would assume all the knights present would be well-versed on such developments…"

They walked in a moment of silence, the Manwoody knight looked down on the concrete road with a muddled feature, wrinkles on the forehead that shows his confusion.

"I know what ails your thoughts…" Leyna breaks the silence "I wonder the same as well… for such kingdom, fallen or otherwise. Would beset another with help and gifts that would rival their power, I know not if we could reach them in hand, but I found myself perplexed on how… civil these Starfolks could be"

Leyna continued as Manwoody stares onward "I understand why you would not be informed in hindsight, the man departed to the east barracks on night to lessen the attention and none dared to speak of it"

"My lady…" Manwoody spoke "Surely others would spread such news, especially of such an import… unless an omission of sort-"

"Perhaps…" She replied "The agreement is for House Dayne knights and Arms man only to take part and make use of such weaponry… promulgating such news would be rather controversial"

"Dayne's" Manwoody said "Only Dayne's are permitted to handle such a weapon…"

"Of course…" Leyna said "They may temporarily have our lands, if there are an equivalent exchange. Me and my husband have assured them of that…"

They stopped at a Balcony of a food court, silver and clean. The place is rather quiet and lonesome but the light of the sunset catalyst the elegance of the locale. Manwoody pace around the area with contemplation just a few feet behind the Lady of Starfall.

"I've seen their work" He spoke "They pierced through armor; their swiftness is unreal. The strongest steel bow or even Valyrian make would not make such destruction… and they are in your hands…"

"My house hands" She corrected "House Dayne"

"Knights and their retinue have fallen on such arms… I've scouted with a Starfolks on such event, a hundred man fell within seconds as they try to flee Starfall…"

"I've heard of it… an ugly work, but they have been warned…" Leyna said, the wind swiftly blew her hair "it was a temporary decree, but some unheeded…"

"Those are knights…"

"Hedge Knights and Small knights alike… It is good to hear that no lordly presence can be found to escape my land… woe to the days that I have to grip the death of a member of a house such as yours or Dalt's, ser"

"Why are you telling me this…" Manwoody asked finally "You've barred us from leaving and withhold monumental information from me- us… why now?"

She turns with a stony feature, though her brows raised with solemn "A thousand man armed with those Thunder spears… how long do you think the opposing army will last against it…"

"Morale will break first before their life do…" Manwoody answered "The enemy won't have a chance to reach you properly if you barrage them… But-"

"No one can win against it… no one… No man can. The UNSC will win and by proxy my house" She said "The time will come and it is soon… that my man, my husband's man will be well practice and given the means to create such weapons…"

"You lie…" Manwoody spoke out of turn "I can hardly believe they gave you such things, but the means to create them… Preposterous".

"Believe or not, somethings must be accepted, Ser" The sun is setting "And there are many secrets still…".

"You haven't answered my question…".

"You will be permitted to go to your home someday" She responded "Perhaps A week from now, A month? A year? But it will happen… no one will try to kill you here, not unless the rules on present circumstances have been violated…" Leyna tilt her head swiftly towards the view "Look upon them and see, there can be no other end… proper end then alliance with us…".

And look he did, it was a surreal moment to absorb the perception of the Starfolks once more. They are taller, faster, much more disciplined and by extension stronger. Every one of them are well-fed and well-learned. They know more than his people do; each one holds knowledge a dozen maester would sacrifice an ancient historical book to learn.

The light they summoned shines everywhere, on the bulbs, behind the windows and over the curtains. They beckoned many things of the unnatural and invaluable both, pockets upon pockets of machines that trivialize old ways and so much more to come in hand. But then…

"We are of Dorne…" Manwoody retorted "Are we not allies already?".

"Details and trifles won't serve us here…" Leyna answered back "we are loyal to family… and I have no intention to share what I have here to a house that questioned us so many times".

"Targaryen's… or Martell's?" Manwoody queried.

No answer came.

"All I ask is that when the time comes, you won't compromise my house…" Leyna spoke.

"It is my silence you're after…" Manwoody said Matter-of-factly, eyes still bore down towards the concrete streets and iron building of the Stars.

"That and more…" Leyna replied "I need you to anchor your words as well… omission if you have to, towards anyone that is not with us…"

"Us… so am I part of… THIS already?"

"What do you think?"

It was a quick deliberation; the truth is the man have already decided…

"And if I do…, what will I have" He further enquired "Will you share the Starfolks bounty as well?"

"Not immediately… it comes when it will come"

A call is heard from afar "Lady Dayne" Lieutenant Julian shouted "And Sir Carlton Manwoody? You are here too?" He walks towards both lordly with a short pace, taking his time to reach them. With haste Leyna concluded her converse with Manwoody.

"I'll be waiting for the answer ser Manwoody…".

"Wait!" He called softly "My one question! You haven't answered it! how did you convince them to give you these gifts!? why!?"

Leyna did not meet his eyes on the moment, her hands are helical together and for once in their speaking she looks uncertain than usual.

"I have the perfect answer for that…" she said "I do not know…"

---

River Besides Starfall

They sat together beside a large tree, sturdy and rooted hard near the river shores. Around them lies ramparts of wooden corpse, broken by many ways whether a hard throw of an object or a hard hit of a fist, the marks and craters that scattered around their dead wooden bodies are signs of their means of death.

"Are you tired?" Franklyn asked on Gedric's left as his bottom rest rightly above a root.

"No… not quite" Gedric answered, hands on his knees "it was quite fun though…"

"Is it?" the Fowler rhetorically asked "I can't imagine having the strength to topple such hard wood"

"I don't have to…"

"Hmm…"

Another instant of peace came, there was no awkwardness in their company, though the body did not share the ails of the mind, much thoroughly it will always obey, and both of their minds are exhausted still over the riot of destruction both boys have done, direct or otherwise.

"Who do you think will clean this chaos?" Franklyn queried.

"Umm…" Gedric deigned to answer "My mother most likely would send a servant… though I don't see why the folks on the village would not use It for their own…"

"They do not need wood anymore" Franklyn replied "They have stones and steel for houses and tables…"

"They could use it for something else!" Gedric replied "For bonfire and heat…"

"Your Starfolks man already given them machines for that? wasn't it called Air conditioner?"

"Ah right… well how about decoration?"

"A shattered piece of wood for decorations?" Franklyn chuckled "Absurd"

"They could shape it themselves" An idea came to Gedric "like carpentry of the sort, they shape woods, right?"

"Have you seen woodcraft here anymore?" Fowler asked "It seems like they follow in the Starfolks footstep more and more…"

"Well, they are quite crafty Aren't they…?"

"I can see their ships from here Gedric…"

"I know, I was just being observant…"

"I… don't think that is what you meant to say…"

"You are also not meant to be here…" A new voice came, a tall figure with a dark purple finery and sword in hip "The moon shines brightly on the horizon… I believe this is the time both of you should go to your chambers…"

"Cousin Gwendal!" Gedric shouted softly "I've been waiting for hours on end!"

"I was here already" Gwendal whispered as quiet as the night "You were having fun disrupting the forces of nature, I wouldn't dare to bother you both" He said as he swipes some splinter of the wood from his boots "I hope the woods gave you a proper fight"

"They tried their best…" They all chuckled.

Franklyn followed suit behind both Dayne's seemingly no interest to bother their talk. But after a minute of trailing their feet, he decided to an action "Well… I would follow you onto the castle, but I need to find my knight master first… it was fun Gedric".

"Wait!" Gedric Called "I'll see you again right…"

"I'm stuck here Gedric, we're not allowed to leave remember"

"Oh… Right"

"See you in the morn, friend!" Franklyn Sped towards the courtyard where his master's tent awaits.

"Good to see you found a friend at last" Gwendal interject "Your mother was worried that you would spend you days halfly on your chambers and halfly with a sword. A man needs a colleague after all…".

"Hmm…" Gedric hummed softly, eyes still anchored on the way Franklyn left.

"He'll be fine… no one would harm anyone here" Gwendal said "How did this came to be?"

"This?"

"You and the Fowler boy… so I've heard you bled his face last time…"

"Oh…" Gedric scuffed his chin "I did, but he got better… we're friends now" he said, leaping and tip-toeing around Gwendal as they march slowly towards the castle. The younger one has not noticed it, but Gwendal twitch his iris slowly towards a certain location, a smidge above the hills where a pack of tree lies on the edge of it. Golden Visor shining dim with a huge figure below it.

"Yes, you said that already" Gwendal retorted unsuspicious like "Quite fast in making him one, don't you?" He finished, but his eyes still wander wherever the golden dim may approach, with silence, "I see you…" He thought, with a hand in his sheathed swords grip, he twists it as a gesture to disappear, a snap to the side with strength "Begone…" he whispered.

Gedric was blustering with a standard jubilee of a child, of his day and joy, but it has gone unnoticed as his older counterpart focused his attention on their unwelcomed third party. Not a moment longer the shining gold disappear onto darkness and Gwendal ceased holding his breathe as he let his shoulders stoop low in ease.

-And then the three trees fell down! On the same time with only one rock! And we we're laughin-, Cousin Gwendal! Aren't you listening!?" Gedric spoke after his rant "What are you lookin-".

"Never mind that…" Gwendal interjected "You were talking about how you fell a tree with a giant rock, yes I've heard" He sighed "You shouldn't practice yourself so harshly these days, we know not the consequence of what has happened to you…"

"I've been doing fine these months!" Gedric spoke "I've just practiced my sword arm a moment ago!... well hours ago, that is, but all is well"

"Did you hurt someone?".

"No…" Gedric answered "I was being watched by Ser Fred…".

"So, I've heard…" Gwendal said, his vision watching his surrounding to see for any other signs of intrude "Lets go have your dinner, when we arrive then you can tell me all about your day…"

"Alright!" Gedric said as he jogged lightly with a hint of joyful skip in his steps.

"Lightly, Gedric!" Gwendal spoke.

"Alright! Alright!"

Over their journey towards the steps to the castle, the Heir of Hermitage saw quite a many objectional signs….

One man across the river underneath a giant rock fishing… where is his bait? This river holds no bounty…

One woman picking fruits on a nearby tree… that is a warrior's body upon her… and she's staying on that one tree a bit too long…

Another man cleaning the rocks, branches and woodworks that Gedric destroyed… there are many more on the other side, why is he taking the one to close to us, where there is less?

"This was not the fucking deal…" Gwendal thought "Lady Dayne will hear of this, UNSC treading on thin sands…".

Gwendal stops on the first step up towards the castle, biding his time and just stood there. In not an instant the very same individuals dispersed on their activities, walking away onto opposite ends all under the same time. "Predictable…" Gwendal thought "they are not even trying…".

He scoffed and went up towards the castles dining room…

---

Starfall's Library

Many is his thoughts on today's development, his awed and terrified watch on the town of the west river courtesy of the Starfolks has been a view of tremendous sign of prosperity and of the mystic, many are the wonders of this year on Starfall. But much is in his thought as he arrived under the roof of the learned room as he ponders the information of the hour.

Yet as he opened the door with a squeak he noticed upon the middle of the large room, a huge table that may hold ten men, sited another noble of another bearing, sitting down underneath the darkness quench only by the small lamp.

"Lord Dalt…" Manwoody called "Quite an odd place to find you on this dark night".

"The same to you Carlton…" Dalt replied "What brings you this neck of shelves I wonder…".

"Oh… well" Manwoody stride in, taking a seat just the opposite of the other lord, their eyes not yet met "I am actually in seek of you". His entire body seems to be fidgeting, unsure and anxious. Even in an abode where darkness surrounds them and sounds lies unescaped, still the Manwoody look around in apprehensive cause.

"For what purpose?" Dalt enquired coolly. His head shadowed by the darkness of the pillars of books surrounding him.

"Have you known about… the eastern shore?" Manwoody asked "About a certain development?".

Dalt sighed "Speak plainly, lord Manwoody… we are surrounded by nothing, this castle is prohibited to the Starfolks and their close ilk's…" He leaned back "Besides… I believe what we are about to speak is to confounding to be hidden with subtext, it is better to just be blunt and stark".

"So, you know of it?"

"The eastern barracks where Erick and Orlo trained the Dayne men on the weapons provided by the UNSC?" Dalt Stated "Yes I've known of it, though much longer than you I still would say I know of it this recently… why you have interest in participating?"

Manwoody leaned back and looks down in reflection "So its true…" He whispered "I don't understand… why would they do that?".

"The training or the weapons?" Dalt asked rhetorically "It doesn't matter, the answer is the same… they would tell you it is to make a bridge between two civilizations, to make friends that is, with us… with the Dayne's".

"But to go as far as to train them… it makes no sense! That is no different than the Andal's giving Steelwork to the First men thousands of years ago!"

"They didn't come here to invade ser…" Dalt answered "They said they escaped, so I know you have heard…". And heard the Manwoody did, he made such conversations with the Starfolks, about their civilization, weapons and kingdoms. They say a disaster befell them but…

"They could've just attacked us…" Manwoody said.

"Yes, they could… odd…" Dalt replied "they are unparalleled, nothing could siege that awful steel giant that dwarfed any castle upon this world… they could've smite us down from above… but instead…" one hand raised from the table, an object in Dalt hand until it cluttered on the wooden top.

"What is that…"

"This" Dalt spoke, with his fingers caressing the steel gun "Is called an M1911… an antique of the old world they said… created hundreds of years ago on one of their worlds, cleaned and improve with recent… metallurgy"

Worlds!?

"They've given you that?" Manwoody questioned flabbergasted "for what reason?"

"Friendly gesture they said… in helping establishing good relationship between natives and foreigners" Dalt shrugged "The Gods know what they mean, all I did was standing inside their ship while I await the host lord of this house…".

Manwoody just sit there, eyes gauging the weapon in Dalt's hand, slowly his mind becoming number as he kept on in thought, even go as far as starting to daydream before he recalled his senses "Did you use it?".

"I participated in a skirmish, one to test this sweetheart… I went with a pack of Starfolks soldier to decimate bandits upon the mountains, seems Erick and the UNSC have plans for such places" Dalt Spoke "dozens of bandits came… and three of us carve them down with none of them reaching a few feet on us. You should've seen it Carlton, I was a god then… and all I have is this". He points to the weapon.

"Worlds… Bandits… Eastern Barracks, I've missed so much…"

"I as well… did you not supervise the west construct of the UNSC?"

"I did…"

"Equivalent exchange then…" Dalt offered "I tell you what I know if you do yourself…". Around him Manwoody starts to notice the books and their notices, each of them is subjects of uncertain topics, one of them however bears the symbol of the Dayne and the Sword of the Morning.

"Deal" Manwoody said "I'll start… The books you are reading… what are they for…".

"Oh…"

---

Time moves oddly on the lands between the Red Mountain, greater changes come to fast that a sense of overwhelming caught most men. Eyes opened everyday with a hint of a new world clawing itself in on the southern end of the kingdoms. It is a new game for the children to play, guessing their time of day with each other of what new contraptions or magics that the Starfolks will show for the time.

The same is said for the amicability of the two people, though some would say that they are no longer of different factions. It was a fast metamorphose of what once was a careful and terrified interaction onto an awed and a curious one. Many Smallfolks wore High-end tunics provided by the Starfolks each colored impeccably and with purpose. Dark blue and purple alike.

A sign of unity during such confounding times, even some members of the UNSC can be seen wearing the same for their part. For the people between Starfall and Hermitage, life have never been so bizarre and so well, they have taken the uniform and color scheme gladly.

Some knights are of envy and resentment however, not of the Smallfolks treatment but of the Barracks of the eastern shore of Starfall. Loud and chaotic noises of thunder littered the area for many times for all the knights went to find many arms men of the Daynes was seen practicing a new weapon on their repertoire, courtesy of the UNSC.

Some shown their frustration, other ones were enraged. Went as far as declaring their positions of power as Knights and nobles of Westerosi, some of them promise richest from their merchant backgrounds. It matters not, they are all declined without impunity, some however decided to be violent…

It was good practice for one Man-at-Arms with a rifle in his hands… it was a surreal moment when it happened, to put out a life with a thunderous weapon on grip…

Hopelessness and frustration darkened the knights faces; under the Shadow of the Giant Steel castle, they watch in envy as warriors of Starfall climb their way out onto new pasture. New weapons, new armors and greater training and food from the Starfolks. Thousand of them becoming of Greater man and all the knights can do was taking scraps from them like battered dogs, with little to say. Save for one knight with a lemonwood sigil.

That is not to say with the ban of leaving the premise of the southern Red Mountains, with the negative connotations of the knights' disposition on their act, security have been tightened and many slaughter followed suit. Though it is unknown of the reaction from the outside regarding this, HighTower's and Martell's alike. Lack of migration would surely alert the lords… but it is uncertain as of now.

For the lords on High Hermitage, less are their appearance to their own retinue on the castle between the rivers of the red mountain. They are most seen speaking and walking on the stead of the two lords of the Daynes. Uncertain are their faces, Landon abandoning his cool nature some times and Baryon seemingly speechless at another.

One by one they are shown to great innovation of the lands, Giant wall to moving carriages, the Art and power over such things are incomprehensible to both lords. As each day passed, the uncertainty is slowly abandoned and curious eyes starts to wonder. Within a moon of stay All lords shake each other hand in agreement, though what dealings they have made is unclear and no business to their subordinates to know.

Gedric growth is now of public promulgation. His acts on the trees of the nearby rivers have taken quite a stir. A blatant show of strength like those is bound to make headway towards Artfully tasteful rumors. Though it is nothing of great note on what they say that have not been said in other days.

Some troubles to be had, but all is well for now…

---

Lord Erick Dayne's letter, Arrived two days after arrival to High Hermitage

To the Honorable and Gracious, King Aegon the Fifth.

I am glad to report that the circumstances between Lord Caron and Blackmont and I have been thoroughly quenched with cordiality, there will be no more issues of the such between us lords and the Smallfolks. Their plight in their lives has been relieved also, more than enough to satisfy all relevant parties.

However, I would assume you have heard of the disaster that has befallen my lands. Worry not on that regard your grace, it has been dissipated as well and there is no need for further relief from your hands. To confirm on the state, the disaster in hand is that of an earthquake in which the Maester spoke that came from the sea, a natural occurrence of course, one that is no need for further alarm.

That is all for the Issue, My king.

…

There is no need to invite me for your ceremonies your grace, apologies on my absent on your ceremonies, there is much to be done and the road is perilous.

You don't need to come here, to Starfall.

From your subordinate and loyal lord.

Erick Dayne of Starfall.

---

HANGAR 14D OF THE UNSC HEADQUARTERS ON EARTH

OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT TO ALL UNSC PERSONNEL

YEARS BEFORE THE FALL OF 'LIGHT OF ALEXANDRIA'

To all UNSC Personnel, the following ships has been prepared for departure.

"Evil Subjugator"

"Heavenly Cloud"

"Tower of Control"

"Beneath the Sun"

"Earth Foundation"

"Light of Alexandria"

"Day Shall come"

"Winter Star"

"Shadows of Twilight"

"Blue Raime-

*55&*^(JIHnh9^*rto
Noigbo*%&*^*Y(*)-

"This is General ******** to all Personnel, the Prims are within earths Perimeter. Skip all the due process and lay aboard all your designated ships ASAP. We have thirty minutes before takeoff". Multiple barrages of gunfire both slug and plasma littered the coms "To all Spartans and ODST! This is False Flag Contingency. I say again! This is False flag Contingency"

The next audio is a cavalcade of chaos, as noises from magnitude of sources overwhelmed the speaker. Gunfire all around, shouting of orders between warriors of the UNSC and the screams of children can be heard as well… even their cries…

A sound came, regurgitated like a shrapnel of steel colliding and sliding roughly between stone wall. Slowly it surrounds the speaker as any semblance of familiar voices are dissolute into nothingness.