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House Dayne of Starfall

Seat: Starfall, an ancient castle in Dorne. Located in the Red Mountains on an island in the Torentine.

Words:Unknown.

Affiliation: Dorne.

Description & history: House Dayne is said to be one of the oldest houses in the Seven Kingdoms, supposedly tracing its ancestry all the way back to the dawn of days, over ten thousand years ago. The very first of the Daynes is said to have raised their ancestral home of Starfall after finding a fallen star possessing magical powers on the location. His descendants became the Kings of the Torrentine and, to this day, the Lords of Starfall.

Due to the important, strategically speaking, geographical position of the house, the Daynes have taken part in numerous battles fought between Dorne and the Reach, and still to this very day a fierce hatred remains between the Daynes of Dorne and the Oakhearts of the Reach that stretches thousands of years back in time. Ever since the Daynes supported the legendary warrior queen Nymeria in her conquest of Dorne some eight centuries passed, they have remained a relatively loyal vassal to House Martell, as well as one of the major powers in Dorne.

The Daynes possess a Valyrian sword, and arguably one of the most famed ones at that - Dawn. The sword is not handed out hap-hazardly to the next heir in line, but rather only handed out to a knight of Dayne deemed worthy of wielding it, otherwise being kept safe at Starfall. This knight is, apart from the sword itself, bestowed the title "Sword of the Morning" - a title usually associated with a very capable warrior indeed. Some of the past Sword of the Mornings include Ser Davos Dayne, who married Nymeria herself, and Ser Ulrick Dayne, considered one of the greatest knights of his time.

Among its bannermen are House Dayne of High Hermitage, a Dayne cadet branch of landed knights. Their seat, High Hermitage, is a castle located further up the Torentine, between Starfall and Blackmont. 

Recent events: As part of Dorne, the house of Dayne remained independent throughout the Dance of the Dragons, loyal to Dorne and wanting no part of the dragons' quarrel. 

Roughly a dozen years ago, Lord Mallor Dayne suffered a blow to the head in a skirmish against reachmen and sellswords, redering him incapable of ruling. Since then, his youngest brother Criston and, later on, his heir Rolland, have been ruling Dayne's lands in Mallor's stead. Mallor was very popular amongst his subjects, and it took a great deal of time and effort for Rolland to regain the trust and obedience the people had previously had for their lordship. Now, things are looking up again for House Dayne, as Rolland has proved himself a capable and strong leader. Rolland's cousin, Ser Drayton Dayne, is the current Sword of the Morning. Tregar, Rolland's younger brother, is bitterly disappointed with not being passed Dawn himself. Moreover, Ser Drayton's recent decision to leave Starfall for Sunspear and join Princess Aliandra as a sworn sword has upset Rolland and Tregar alike.

The lands prosper as much as circumstances would allow, and Rolland have recently ordered his soldiers, under Tregar's command, to move in against the bandits and highwaymen yet remaining in the region.

Lord Mallor Dayne, Lord of Starfall, aged 65. Weak and in a near-catatonic state following the wounds he has suffered.

Ser Rolland Dayne, Mallor's first son, Commander of the Starguard, aged 37. Lord of Starfall in all but name, and a popular and respected leader even among most common folk.

Nymeria Dayne, Rolland's wife, aged 38. Mentally strong and intelligent. The marriage between her and Rolland was arranged by the houses of Vaith and Dayne, and their relationship is merely a respectful friendship. Known as an avid falconer, often relying on her two birds to carry out messages.
Morrec Dayne, their first son, aged 18. Much like his uncles, Morrec is known for his good looks and talent with women. Little do others know that Morrec prefers men.
Jeyne Dayne, their first daughter, aged 17. With her pitch black hair causing rumors about her being a bastard, Jeyne is used to people whispering behind her back, be it about her legitimacy, stunning looks or the fact she is by far more at home dishing out commands than her siblings.
Delena Dayne, their second daughter, aged 15. Not as pretty nor as smart as her sister or brother, Delena nevertheless makes up for it by being the far nicest of the trio, and often accompanies her elder house members as they meet with commoners. It is hard to dislike Delena.

Ser Tregar Dayne, "The Black Steed", Mallor's second son, aged 31. Contemptuous, conniving and physical. Tregar used to be a humorous womanizer and generally decent fellow, albeit with streaks of harshness. Recent happenings have inflamed Tregar's darker sides, however. Riveting to watch with a blade or even spear in hand.

Edric Dayne, Mallor's third son, aged 28. If Tregar used to be a womanizer, Edric used to be a damned god of love. Always the best looking male in the Dayne house, Edric always took advantage of the fact and enjoyed it to the fullest extent. Thankfully for the women of the region, Edric eventually came across his match in Gwynn. He isn't the brightest man to see the sun, but is nevertheless witty and entertaining in social situations.

Gwynn Dayne, Edric's wife, aged 26. Younger sister to Nymeria, and even more beautiful. Is very much alike her sister, but is afraid of the birds Nymeria holds dear. Witty like her husband, Gwynn is also intelligent and arguably the dominant among the two.
Lyessa Dayne, their first daughter, aged 4. Bright, sparkly and always in a good mood, much like her father.
Lyanna Dayne, their second daughter, aged 4. Bright, sparkly and always in a good mood, much like her father.

Wendel Dayne, Mallor's younger brother, deceased for seventeen years (would have been aged 61).

Ser Drayton Dayne, "Sword of the Morning", Wendel's first son, aged 31. Not unlike his cousin Rolland - big, strong and stern yet kind and empathic, to an extent. Is not as sharp and fit for command as his cousin, but one hell of a swordsman. Sworn sword to Princess Aliandra Martell.
Ellyn Manwoody, Wendel's first daughter, aged 37. Ellyn is shy but firm. Some twenty years have passed since she was married off, and other than the odd raven now and again, the contact between her and Starfall is very limited.
Ravella Fowler, Wendel's second daughter, aged 35. Headstrong and intrepid, her marriage with Ser Bryce Fowler have done much to strenghten the bonds between the houses.
Meralyn Dayne, Wendel's third daughter, aged 17. Currently serves at Sunspear, as handmaiden to Dorea Martell.

Ser Criston Dayne, Mallor's youngest brother, aged 56. An old and respected knight. While growing old and possessing few skills off the battlefield, Criston is nevertheless considered a wise man and his counsel is respected by most. Currently serves as Starfall's master-at-arms.

Belgrave Dayne, Criston's first son, aged 30. Wild and unpredictable, Belgrave is what Tregar would've been if the latter lacked smarts and self-control. He enjoys murder and mayhem and hates his father as much as his father hates him. If it wasn't for the fact that Belgrave went in self-imposed exile two years ago and vanished without a trace, he would've likely been slain by his kin by now.

Ser Rodrik Dayne, aged 41. A proud and skilled knight of High Hermitage, whom Tregar Dayne squired for. Recently took over rulership of High Hermitage, following his brother's death.
Maester Moryn, aged 45. Timid but knowledgable. Sits on Rolland Dayne's council.
Lord Gerold Ryscliff, aged 34. Lord of House Ryscliff, bannermen to Dayne. Sits on Rolland Dayne's council.
Elron Ryscliff, aged 15. Son of Gerold and squire to Tregar Dayne.

Name: Rolland Dayne
Age: 37
Appearance: Rolland is large and muscly. While perhaps not greatly skilled with weapons, his fists packs a mean punch and he looks the part. Finely trimmed and kept hair and beard helps reimbursing the aura of discipline and strictness that surrounds Rolland, while his purple eyes makes sure no one forgets his heritage. 

Personality: Honorable and commanding, Rolland is a natural leader. He holds his word and expects others to hold theirs. He is kind and loyal, yet strict in his charge and direct in both action and thought. Most consider him a practical man who gets things done, and Rolland lives by these words. He has been not just involved but by and large responsible for the prospering state Starfall and it's surrounding lands now find itself in, a result of his excellent organizational skills. Often considered the most intelligent of his house, many of his subjects are glad that Rolland is the heir to their beloved and soon-to-be late Lord Mallor. He has a weak spot for his younger brothers, often consciously or sub-consciously refusing to see Tregar for what he is.

Biography: Rolland was born when his grandfather Ulrick Dayne was at the height of his prime. Ulrick was considered one of the greatest knights of his generation, and Rolland's father Mallor did everything he could to live up to Ulrick's expectations. As such, Mallor came to expect a lot of his firstborn son, and Rolland was in his turn steeped in the same mold as those before him. He learned to take initiative, be active and always think two steps ahead. As the boy grew older, it was evident that while he was as big as his father and grandfather, he didn't have the same affinity for swordplay. While by no means a weak combatant, the brilliance of his elders simply wasn't there. He did however prove capable in learning the tactics and strategics of warfare, and was named Commander of the Starguard - the soldiers of Starfall - at a tender age of 18. It was mostly symbolical at the time, but Rolland has held the title ever since, gradually starting to perform its duties. 

It was at this time, when he was 18, that Rolland was married to Nymeria Vaith in an attempt to strengthen the relation between the distant houses, While Rolland was immediately taken by his wife's beauty, it would take years until his feelings were reciprocated. Nevertheless, their first child was born a mere year after their marriage, with two more soon to follow. As Lord Mallor was severely wounded in battle during a raid in the marches, Rolland came to be the acting ruler of Starfall in all but name, with his uncle Criston serving as a mentor and advisor. As time passes, Rolland is growing increasingly comfortable and proficient in his role, and now that House Dayne has been stabilized once more, he seeks to weed out the remaining threats.

Name: Tregar Dayne
Age: 31
Appearance: Of average height, Tregar is athletically built with strong, wiry muscles and an innate capacity for agility. He sports black hair - unusual for a Dayne - that is a starch contrast to his violet eyes, and is generally considered very attractive. A long, vertical scar above his left eye, courtesy of Ser Drayton Dayne, seem to only strengthen this notion. Typically dresses in black and gold.

Personality: While Tregar retains his older brothers intelligence, they share little else. Whereas Rolland is stern but kind, Tregar is humorous but callous. While Rolland is just and honest, Tregar is arbitrary and deceitful. Though capable enough, Tregar isn't as good in command as his brother, and far from a natural leader. He is, however, a terrific combatant, unlike his brother. Wielding sword as well as spear with deadly purpose and precision, Tregar would often fight toe-to-toe with his equally talented cousin Drayton when the two were younger. When Drayton then was named the new Sword of the Morning by Rolland and Tregar's uncle Criston, Tregar's pride was immensely wounded. 

Disillusioned and hurt by this, in his eyes, betrayal, Tregar has become an increasingly violent and cruel man, doing little to hide his natural affinity for blood, death and chaos now that he no longer stands to gain Dawn. Putting the blame on his goody two-shoes cousin, Tregar is visciously determined to make not just his brother and uncle, but Drayton especially, pay for their sins.

Biography: Known as "The Black Steed" for his hair, riding abilities, skills in fighting and success with women, Tregar has ever since being but a boy been profoundly fond of two things: combat and women. He would often compete with his younger brother Edric in winning the opposite gender's affections. Tregar viewed women as little other than objects, things to be gained and disregarded, while his brother seemed to love each and every one of them. While their competition often ended in stalemate when they were younger, Tregar's callousness did him few favours as the brothers and their prey matured, Edric eventually coming to outdo Tregar on a general basis as the two left their teens. Since then, Tregar has been nearly wholly focused on his other hobby in life - fighting.

Much like Tregar fought Edric over girls, he literally fought his cousin Drayton over who was the best warrior, and who deserved Dawn more. As children, it was more of a game than anything else, but as they grew older it became more and more reality, especially for Tregar. The young man was shorter and weaker, having to outdo his skilled cousin in every aspect to match him. After having lost one sparring too many, Tregar challenged Drayton to a real duel using real swords rather than wooden ones. With the old Ulrick Dayne watching and knowing such an emotional duel being against the Sword of the Morning's wishes, Drayton refused to duel, sparkling an attack from Tregar. The two fought intensely, with the outraged Tregar gaining the upper hand. As Tregar successfully disarmed Drayton, the latter managed to punch Tregar in the face. Drayton had then reached for his knife and slashed the bewildered Tregar across the face, effectively ending the duel as Tregar's vision was blurred by his own blood, and Drayton, refusing to kill the man, knocked him out.

At this time, the two were 24 years old. After that it was a fact set in stone that Drayton would be the next Sword of the Morning, a reality Tregar refused to accept. As Lord Mallor slips deeper and deeper from reality with every year that passes, Rolland is soon likely to officially be named Lord, with Tregar likely to take up the command of the Starguard. Refusing to acknowledge that he was ever defeated by Drayton (he had disarmed him!), much less not being deserving of Dawn, Tregar has been very disciplined in his training and adamant about receiving the title of Commander, as a means to lick his wounds. He has still not married and is not in the least interested in doing so, yet fears that Rolland will require him to do so if he is to be the new Commander. Due to Tregar's famous reputation as a fighter and womanizer, any woman who ends up being his bride will be in for a grim surprise.

Name: Belgrave Dayne, though he goes by Belgrave alone since leaving Starfall.
Age: 30
Appearance: While rather short, clearly below average height, Belgrave has broad shoulders and a thick frame, making him imposing to most even if he has to look up to see them in the eyes. He has dark-blond, unkempt hair and beard and, much like his father, lacks the violet eyes so typical for his house, instead sporting bleak blue ones. He has a very sturdy handshake and is in general a physical man, doing little to appear otherwise. His body is marred in all sorts of scars. Some by swords, some by arrows, some by accidents and one by fire.

Personality: As wild and ferocious as they come, Belgrave appears little more than a rabid dog. He angers frequently and irratically, becoming absolutely furious at mundane things while remaining perfectly calm at times he should be angry. He is in general as unpredictable as is temper, and changes his needs and ambitions on the fly. While being a hurricane of emotions and desires, there are a few things Belgrave is consistent with; he hates other people, he invariably enjoys hurting others, and he is madly in love with Lady Nora Tyrell after spotting her at a tournament, even though they've never actually met.

Belgrave is a very martial man. While not originally of notable skill, Belgrave has learned his trade as mercenary and thief by practical experience, as his many scars makes evident. When Belgrave enters a fight he does so with little regard for his own life, and only one man will ever leave it while still breathing. So far Belgrave has been that man every single time. He prefers the versatility of swords, but sometimes resorts to axes as they are easier to come by. He is a terrible rider, completely incapable on a horseback in battle, and prefers to travel by foot or boat whenever possible. 

Biography: As his mother died giving birth to him, Belgrave's path in life has always been set in blood and despair. He was wild as a child, often picked on by other children because of his small size and the way his mother died. Never backing down, Belgrave fought his enemies with tooth and nail, often ending up the winner by simply never giving up, despite the pummelings he received. He would often take out his wrath on animals, torturing various little creatures to release the ever building pressure of angst and anger. 

His father served as a sworn sword to Ulrick Dayne, often carrying out missions in various cities and settlements around Dorne, and sometimes beyond. Criston usually took Belgrave with him, and this was how Belgrave would come to spend most of his childhood - on the road. Even as the boy came to be a man Criston would bring him along every time, all the time, as the father feared what his son might do unsupervised. Belgrave became fond of this travelling, always moving and never stopping, and so when Lord Mallor suffered his wounds and Criston settled in Starfall, acting as mentor for Belgrave's cousin Rolland, Belgrave was far from happy. Confined to the walls of Starfall, he soon began lashing out violently once again. 

Although always violent and blood-thirsty, these feelings were inflamed once again as Belgrave felt like a captive. And when he started picking fights this time around, the results were much more severe. He'd get in tavern brawls, not seldomly ending up killing the other combatant or combatants, and the craving among the public for his blood grew, as did the dark rumours - that held true - about the man. As such, Belgrave finally decided to simply leave Starfall one day, with no intention of returning.

The last three years on the road has been the best of Belgrave's life, and arguably the worst of those he has met. Leaving his noble name behind him and moving into the Reach, Belgrave has taken up command of a small group of rag-and-tag thieves, rapists and murderers that roam the countrysides of the Stormlands as well as the Reach in a continuous search for gold and victims. Belgrave has bigger ambitions than that, however, often ranting to his gang about his plans to sail to Essos and become a pirate. Whether these ambitions are anything but the bullshit that usually stems from Belgrave's mouth remains to be seen.
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