Whitson Mariner

*You are right here in your story. Don't skip ahead.*
Massie Burnson, *The Wreck and Rise of Whitson Mariner*, p. 32
**WARNING: SPOILERS FOR *PRINCE LANDER & THE DRAGON WAR* ARE AHEAD; CAUTION IS ADVISED.**

## Book information

### Appears

• *The Black Star of Kingston*
• *The Wreck and Rise of Whitson Mariner*
• *Prince Lander & the Dragon War*

### Mentioned

• *The Green Ember*
• *Ember Falls*
• *Ember Rising*

**K****ing Whitson Mariner** was the first king of the rabbits in Natalia and ancestor to all subsequent monarchs, including King Jupiter.

## Biography

### Early life

Whitson was born the son of Lord Whit on Golden Coast, apparently some time before the region was invaded by an unknown menace. Whitson hit upon the idea of fleeing Golden Coast to find a new home, and doing so by building ships and sailing away. His first ship met with ridicule from a crowd led by a Rabbit named Rangel, an incident that left Whitson feeling resentful. However, he found support from other Rabbits, including Seddle.

### King of rabbits

King Gerrard appointed Whitson to be his heir, and gave him several artifacts including the Crown of Flames and the Ruling Stone. Whitson led the evacuation from Golden Coast, and named the new land upon which the rabbits landed Natalia. When their camp grew into a true settlement, Whitson named it Seddleton in honor of Seddle. He married Lillie, daughter of Lord Grant, and the two were blessed with a son whom they named Lander.

Whitson finds his community trouble a time after his son is born. His community is distraught with winter coming. There is no wood to burn other than the trees, but Whitson worries that chopping the trees down for wood will only make them more vulnerable.

Whitson meets Fleck, a rabbit from the coal mines of Golden Coast. Fleck proposes to him the idea build ships and sail over Ayman Lake to the Low Bleaks in search of coal for the coming winter. Whitson agrees and appoints Fleck as Captain Blackstar.

The ship is named Vanguard. In the meantime, two more ships are being built for Whitson to explore the new land of Natalia.

Trouble comes. Whitson finds old fears once again, the raptors, the Lord of Prey. The Battle of Ayman Lake ensues, where Whitson is to fight for his and his son’s life during the battle. Fleck saves him from when he blows up the ships to beat back the Lords of Prey.

The aftermath is tough on Whitson. So many have died in the Battle of Ayman Lake. He can see Fleck as a leader, however, after Fleck’s heroics in the battle. Whitson take a bold move to sail farther inland for rabbitkind’s true home. He appoints Fleck as Lord Blackstar and charged him to expand the mine Fleck has founded and build a warren nearby.

On the day of sailing, King Whitson Mariner stands on Vanguard to face Fleck. Fleck is kneeled on the shore. Whitson calls to Fleck, then speaks Blackstar’s Oath.

### Wreck and Rise

Aboard the *Vanguard*, King Whitson Mariner welcomes his lords and captains into his cabin for a toast. Whitson engages in a heated exchange with Lord Grimble and his son, Captain Grimble, prompting Queen Lillie to quell the rising storm by calling for a toast. Grimble toasts to "a new kingdom", which so riles Whitson that Lillie is forced to take him out of the room before his temper can further elevate.

Whitson soon returns and calls for a toast with all of his captains, during which he recalls the bloody events of Golden Coast and expresses his good wishes for their future home, to which they are currently sailing.

As Lander arrives and all the captains return to their ships, Whitson expresses his concern over provoking the Grimbles to Massie.

*Steadfast* remains an extra day at Halfway Harbor, but the other two ships continue on. As the river grows steadily more perilous, *Burnley* is sent before *Vanguard*. Fog surrounds both ships, and Massie becomes nervous. He sends Hayes to wake Whitson, and attempts to hail *Burnley*, but, too late, *Vanguard* collides with some unseen rocks. As procedures to abandon ship begin, Whitson orders that Queen Lillie be fetched, but she is nowhere to be found. Lander realizes with horror that the queen has been kidnapped by the Grimbles.

Whitson remains onboard as the rest of the rabbits flee to shore, resolved to look for Lillie. He searches every waterlogged corner of the sinking ship. Trapped in the wreckage, he almost drowns before he is rescued by Brindle Cove.

On shore, Whitson learns of those who were murdered, including Commander Tagg, when Lillie was taken, and he laments the loss of the cargo the *Desolation* was carrying, such as the Whitson Stone. Whitson impatiently awaits the arrival of *Steadfast*. Just then, he is hailed to a tree at the edge of the wood, where a masked Galt is hiding. Galt shows Whitson the Green Ember as proof of having seen Lander, and requests a private audience with Whitson, to which the king agrees.

Soon, *Steadfast* arrives on shore. Whitson orders Captain Walters to bring the ship in, then turns his attention back to Galt, who tells him everything he told Massie and Lander. Whitson pardons Galt, who then takes his leave of the king to find Massie and Lander. Whitson addresses the community, telling them of the Grimbles' betrayal. The king then resolves to take a skeleton crew aboard *Steadfast* and attempt to catch up with *Desolation*.

Aboard *Steadfast*, Whitson keeps a sharp eye for *Desolation* as they approach rapids. Just as *Steadfast* is about to collide with a massive rock, Whitson calls for Hamp, but the buck is no longer at helm.

Just as *Steadfast* is about to collide with the rock, Brindle Cove reaches the helm. The ship careens out of danger, and the crew hurries to make things shipshape as they continue sailing. As they approach a cliff, Whitson spots Lillie, Massie, and Lander running along its top, chased by dragons. The king orders the crew to drop anchor, and catches his wife as she and the other two jump down onto *Steadfast'*s deck. On their way away from the cliff, Whitson sees Lander on his way towards them, pursued by dragons. Lander leaps onto the deck, bringing two dragons with him. One is dead, but the other lunges for Lillie; it is slain by Galt.

Whitson learns of Lillie's and Lander's ordeals, then hurries back to the bow. As *Steadfast* continues downriver, the king promotes Massie to captain for his service.

As evening approaches, Massie spots movement on the edge of the island. Whitson orders Brindle to take them closer to shore. Massie recognizes the creatures as the supposed dead of *Vanguard'*s wreck, Mother Saramack included among them. Whitson quickly holds a hurried conference with his captains, during which he explains his plan. Just then, *Desolation* emerges out of the river beyond.

Lillie and Lander, followed by a few others, swim for shore as the rest prepare for battle. The crew of *Steadfast* feign continuous mistakes, allowing *Desolation* to quickly gain on them. Whitson orders Brindle to pull hard to port, then back to starboard so that the ship is now aimed squarely at *Desolation*; the bow of *Steadfast* crashes right into the bigger ship's side. Though momentarily stunned, Grimble soon regains control and sends his bucks onto the decks of *Steadfast*, but they find the deck empty.

Just then, a buck spots a group of actively burning blastpowder barrels in the corner of the deck, and most of Grimble's crew abandons ship in their panic. Grimble, however, breaks open the barrels to find them all empty. Suddenly, Whitson and his crew surge on deck, and a fierce battle ensues. Just as Grimble is about to bring the final blow, he stops when finding himself surrounded by Whitson's supporters. Jimmi Docker brings an oar around into Grimble's face, successfully knocking the younger rabbit out cold.

On shore, the survivors and soldiers reunite. Whitson is approached by Mother Saramack, who tells him that one of Grimble's bucks brought a message from the dragons. The message stated that the dragons intend to report to their king of the trouble, and that they will return to finish the rest of the rabbits. Whitson is depressed by this news, but he is soon cheered when Mother Saramack directs him, Lillie, and Lander to the wreckage of *Vanguard*, where a crate that had been found with King Gerrard's seal on it. Inside, much to their awe and relief, they find the Stone Sword of Flint.

### Final days

As they walk towards a treaty with Grimble, King Whitson told Prince Lander to get him Captain Massie. Prince Lander told him, again, that Captain Massie was gone, and that it had been weeks. Whitson told Lander to forgive him, as he had forgotten for a moment. Lander, trying to smile confidently, told him that it was nothing, but he was worried. Doctor Grimes had told the family that King Whitson would, over time, lose his power to think clearly. Prince Grant, doubting that Grimble would keep his word, insisted that he, Lander, and Lemual cannot go with Whitson, as they must keep a leader with a stronger force at camp. Whitson refused, however, and later revealed that this was part of a plan to trap some who were traitors and Grimble's spies. Whitson had Lord Arben and Captain Danker arrested. His mind seemed perfectly fine as he confronted them, telling them the many ways he had become suspicious. Lord Arben screamed at him, saying that they must make peace with the dragons or else flee forever, but Whitson said that he never would.

After Prince Lander returns from his mission to rescue the oathbreakers' children, Whitson asks him if the wound in his leg hurts badly. Lander says that it does, and Queen Lillie tells him that is good, as it takes more strength to be honest than to lie in trying to be tough. Whitson and Lillie continue an old argument about whether you should insist that you were fine, and then Lillie insists that there is no 'back in my day' as it is Whitson's day now. Whitson says he is not as ruined as he put on (thanking her for the scheme to flush out the spies), but that he feels himself weakening. Lander tells his father that he seems older every year. Doctor Grimes notices that Whitson is out of memory tonic, and tells him that taking more than the prescribed dose won't help more, and will only require him to take more of his other medicine. Whitson, not meeting Lander or Lillie's gazes, thanks her.

The royal family then discusses battle plans, and Lander brings up Flint's sword. Whitson, shaking his head, does not answer, and so Lillie answers for him, saying that there is a good reason it is buried, as it's too powerful for anyone to use and not be changed. Lander wondered if Whitson needed to be changed. Lander whispered that it was Flint's own sword, and asked why they were not using it to preserve rabbitkind. Whitson tells Prince Lander that, while he does not keep much from his son, he has held back this one thing, as he didn't want to add to Lander's burden of the Green Ember. Whitson tells Lander that every night since he first held the starsword he has had the same nightmare. In his dream, he takes the starsword, and he kills every enemy by himself in a spectacular win. Lander interrupts, asking why, but Whitson continues, saying that the dream does not end that way. After he wins, he says, he keeps the sword and can't give it up. He kills everyone until he is alone with his sword at the end, and he is worse than any oathbreaker or monster they've ever seen. In the end of the dream, he looks in a mirror, and sees that he has become a dragon. Lander, sitting down heavily, asks if this is every night. They talk about what Fay's book says about the sword, and Whitson says that he fears that in the end, the sword will use its user, and that may have been what happened to Flint. Lander tells King Whitson that he is proud to be Whitson's son.

Prince Grant arrives, saying that dragons have been spotted on the west ridge, and Whitson sends five teams to the east ridge and only two to the west, suspecting a trick. This leads to the Division of Lener's Crossroads, as the Frustrated Band of Hot Youngbloods think Whitson is an old geezer for only sending two teams to where the dragons were seen. Prince Lander, apalled, tells them that none of them would be here if not for King Whitson, and that Whitson deserves better than this. However, the young soldiers continue to shout that Whitson is an old codger and they need one of his sons to rule.

After Prince Grant returns gravely wounded, Whitson comes in to the royal house with Prince Lemual, and asks Lillie and Lander what the news is. He reaches for Lillie's hand, but she cannot speak, and collapses into his arms. Prince Lander tells him that they have not received any news, and they do not know whether that is good or bad. The four sit for a while, holding hands and showing their affection for each other through the silence.

Captain Walters entered, saying there was a bit of a problem outside, and he and Lander find the Frustrated Band of Hot Youngbloods near rioting. Lander asks that they send up a leader, and they elect Filmun Derkson, who says that the bucks want a new king. Lander inquires if they want Whitson Mariner, the savior of their kind and the hero who brought them from Golden Coast, to die. Filmun insists that he does not, and Lander asks what, then, they want. Filmun says that they want Whitson to abdicate and let one of his sons rule, as he is not fit to command.

The bucks hear Queen Lillie scream, and thinking this means Prince Grant is dead, all prepare to storm the guards and enter the royal house. But Whitson enters, yelling for them to hold, with such authority that they do. Whitson raised his hand to speak, but Prince Grant hobbled into view. He told them that his father's decision to send more soldiers to the east ridge than to the west was not folly. He told them that all the king's military councilors and his sons all agreed that the dragons spotted were either a scouting party, or a trick to lure them into battle while other dragons attacked the rear. He told them that Whitson had been planning the final defense of the camp for many years, and that he had not made a rash and foolish decision but followed a protocol decided upon long ago. Grant took responsibility for his injuries, saying the only reason he was hurt was because he engaged the dragons against Whitson's orders.

While at the Drekker camp, Prince Lander asks Chief Heckle why they are not keeping the old oath now, and siding with Whitson Mariner. Chief Heckle says that the young ones want a different heir to reign.

Whitson shows Lillie, Lander, and Lemual a letter he has received from Grimble, inviting Whitson to a peace summit. Lemual, doubtful, asks if it really is peace, and King Whitson says that no, what Grimble actually means is surrender. He tells Lemual that he is right, something will go wrong, he just needs to know how it will go wrong so that he can prepare. He then corrects himself, saying he needs to know so they can prepare, and looks at Lander. Lander, frowning, realizes that his father already sees Lander in his place.

Whitson continues, saying that Grimble knows they will never side with the dragons, so there is a trick in it. Lander said that he had an idea, and suggested that they invite Nickel Drekker to the council, to counter Grimble's tricks. Whitson agreed, and Nickel met with the war council alongside Chief Heckle. Whitson inquires how they could make the environment more friendly for Nickel to think, and Nickel says that it's okay, as he has eleven ideas already, he just isn't sure what Whitson needs. Captain Walters rolls his eyes, asking if this is the best use of their intelligence and time, and Chief Heckle stands up, asking if he doesn't have time for this 'Drekker nonsense' and begins to leave with Nickel. But Whitson puts his hand on Chief Heckle's arm, and tells him that they have not always done well in welcoming the Drekkers, and that he is sorry, but he hopes those days are coming to an end. He asks Chief Heckle to stay and help, as they need him. Walters apologizes to Chief Heckle, and Chief Heckle in turn forgives him. King Whitson directs the conversation back to the planning, asking Nickel what his best idea for what they should do is. Nickel says that while he does have those sorts of ideas, they're not the ones he thinks are the most important. Whitson realized that he meant what he'd do if he were Grimble. Nickel said that Grimble would probably send a force that evening, to make them eager to seek peace. As Chief Heckle and Nickel are leaving, an officer hurried in, saying that there has been an attack on the northern gate.

Whitson immediately began readying the defense. He sent Captain Cove to check on the gate captains, Chief Heckle to gather the Drekkers, and Lander to lead the defense. Lander starts to go, but Whitson tells him to hold, while Doctor Grimes bandages the wound in Lander's leg, which had started bleeding again. As Lander left, he heard King Whitson telling Lemual to gather the Third Scouts to leave. Lander, realizing he might not see either of his brothers alive again, fought back tears as he hurried to organize the defense.

As Captain Forne is about to kill Lander, he is stopped by an arrow. Lander hears rabbits calling that the king fights for them, and he looks up to see his father. Whitson is leading a band of reinforcements, firing his bow again and again. As he neared the enemy, he put down his bow and drew his sword. Lander counted twenty-three enemies that Whitson killed. Lander sees Whitson saving the lives of his allies again and fighting like the legendary warrior he was. The oathbreakers were defeated, and ran away, while some soldiers shouted rude taunts at them. Whitson came over to his son, telling him to secure the area, while Whitson made sure they weren't attacking elsewhere. Lander said this may have been Nickel's theory proved right, and Whitson said that he believed so too, but he must be sure. Captain Cove encouraged the soldiers to cheer for Whitson, and they cheered ten times. Whitson bowed and waved at the grateful soldiers.

After the battle, Captain Walters told Lander that nobody knew where Whitson was. Queen Lillie told Lander that Whitson had gone to a place where he couldn't be followed, where only few knew the way. Lander realized where Whitson was, and hurried to the place where the starsword was buried, where he saw Whitson kneeling in the snow. Whitson said that he used to know so much, but he'd learned so much that he couldn't be sure anymore, and he didn't know whether to employ the sword in their defense or let it stay there. He told Lander that his heart said he couldn't use it, that it's not for him to carry, but his mind knew it would help them defend themselves. Lander said that he could carry the sword, as he would risk it in the defense, but Whitson told him that he couldn't, as only the king may carry it. He said that was one of the things that he did have clarity on, and that Lander would be king, but not yet. Lander said that he would rather stay with Whitson always than ever be king, and Whitson said that he felt the same about his own father. He told Lander how it hurt to leave Whit behind, and then says that Whit would be so proud of Lander. Lander responds that Whit would be proud of Whitson, and Whitson said that he had a different set of challenges that Whit faced, and had to lead, pioneer, and innovate in ways his father probably couldn't have imagined, and that he hopes Whit would approve. Lander said he was certain Whit would, that Whitson has been a faithful son, a great king, and a wonderful father. Whitson hugged Lander, saying that Fleck was right about him, and both reminisce about Fleck.

A cloud glided across the sun, sending a shadow across the clearing. Whitson knelt again and took a handful of snow and dirt off the ground. Lander winced, a nauseous feeling coming over him, his eyes glazing over, and seeing a curtain of red, horrified screams, and endless gravestones. Whitson shook his head and put back the dirt and snow, the cloud left, and Lander's vision passed. Whitson turned back to Lander, telling him that it wasn't time, and he didn't know why, but he couldn't do it, and they would have to find another way.

When Whitson and Lander returned, they found Chief Heckle and Captain Walters arguing at the war council. When they saw King Whitson, Captain Walters began to say something but trailed off, and Chief Heckle did so too. Whitson looked at Nickel and asked if he had a scheme for them. Whitson told Nickel he did not want Lander with him, as that was too much risk, but Nickel said that Grimble wouldn't know Whitson wasn't alone. Nickel tells them about his scheme, and Lander eventually convinces Whitson to let him come along.

Before the peace summit, a party comes to see them off. Queen Lillie holds King Whitson's hand, and Mother Saramack even leaves her secret chamber. Whitson came over to her, saying that he was so honored she had come. Mother Saramack smiled and patted his hand, telling him he was very welcome and that she remembered him from long ago. She tells how she saw him making his little toy ships, and she remembered him taking them away, while the heroes of Golden Coast laid down their lives for them to escape. She told Whitson that he had done a harder thing than them, living and leading, continuing to fight when quitting was easiest. She told him what she owed Whitson everything and was so grateful for him. She embraced him, and Whitson's eyes filled with tears. he knelt and kissed her hand, and blessed her. Queen Lillie retook Whitson's hand, and together they walked toward the gate. Lillie whispered that she loved him, and he smiled and told her that she loved him too.

As they approached the peace summit, King Whitson saw that Grimble had captured Hollie, and had her with him. As they landed, Whitson murmured to Lander that he loved him, and not to forget who's son he was. As Grimble pulled Hollie, hurt from the struggle in which she was captured, onto the island. Hollie stumbled and fell, and Whitson stepped forward, his hands in fists. Grimble drew his sword, telling Whitson to stay on his own side, as he would see to what was his. Whitson asked if he was supposed to let Grimble kill his own daughter, and asked what Grimble had become, to which Grimble said that he hoped to become more than any of them had imagined. Whitson asks what Namoz promised him now, asking if Namoz will give him a 'little dragon crown' if he slaughters his entire family. Whitson told Grimble that it wasn't too late to rejoin them, saying that they would still welcome him home. Grimble insisted that the dragons are unstoppable, and that if Whitson didn't make a deal with the dragons, he'd die, and that he invited Whitson to live on and on. Whitson snapped back, saying that he would never accept an offer to live in shame, as treacherous villains, trading the lives of their vulnerable for their security and wealth. Grimble laughed, telling Whitson never to say never. He then pushed Hollie down, and Whitson seethed. Grimble told Whitson that he should have brought one of his 'princelings', as he is dying and he shouldn't bother denying it. Grimble asks how long Whitson thinks his army will last without him. But Whitson only laughs, saying that it will probably be stronger, as Lander is a better commander than he is, and half the army is ready to make him king already. Grimble perceives that that is the reason Whitson is offering himself there, because he doesn't think it will weaken his side, but Whitson says that if Grimble kills him, he thinks the army will be stronger after. Grimble asks if he is that replaceable, and Whitson says that if Grimble kills him, their outrage will make them only more determined to fight.

Grimble says that Namoz has offered a solution to their 'little squabbles over who is rightful king of rabbitkind', but Whitson says simply that they have no squabble, and pulling out the Ruling Stone, says that he is king and Grimble is traitor. He adds that the dragons are their enemies, and tells Grimble it is not that complicated. Grimble insists that Whitson is refusing to accept Grimble being smarter, stronger, and more powerful than him. Whitson says that Grimble is a slave, and that Namoz will kill him in the end. Grimble insists that he will not die, and will instead become viceroy of all. He offers Whitson the chance to be king under Namoz, and split the land with Grimble. Whitson calls this nonsense, saying that he is going to die and Grimble will too.

The dragons then emerge from under the water, and Whitson watches as Grimble takes a potion given by a dragon sorcerer, and then Namoz asks if Lander would like to join Whitson, having sensed the young prince in the boat's secret compartment. Whitson says that his son is not a part of this, but Namoz tells Prince Lander to come, saying that if he does not Whitson will die. Lander exits the compartment, and watches as Hollie is dragged toward the dragon sorcerer. Whitson tells them not to harm Hollie, because they will be forced to intervene. The dragon priestess cuts Hollie on the arm and shakes her arm over the cauldron. As soon as the priestess let go of her, Hollie ran past her father and into Whitson's arms. Whitson, appalled at Grimble giving his own daughter's blood for dragon rituals, tells him once again to turn away from this wickedness, and that he would still be welcomed home. Grimble ignores him.

Whitson tore some cloth off his tunic and wrapped Hollie's injured arm, then took of his own cloak and wrapped Hollie in it. He whispered to Hollie that they would get her away from this awful place, and she will have a home, as she belongs with them. Lander leaned in and whispered that he had a feeling that if they didn't kill Grimble now, they would regret it, ad Whitson said he'd had that feeling for a long time. Namoz accuses Whitson of making Hollie his pet, and Whitson replied coolly that she didn't exist for his convenience. Namoz asked if she then existed for his inconvenience, and told him that if he killed his son Lander, gave Lander's blood to Namoz, and drank from the dragons' cup, he would live forever. Whitson stepped back, saying he would never drink 'the deathbrew', insisting that it was eternal death and that he would never taste it. As the dragon priestess handed Grimble a cup from the potion, Whitson cried for him not to drink it, but Grimble drank the whole thing. Grimble fell down in agony, and Whitson and Lander moved to help him. Namoz asked if they were so weak that they would have pity on Grimble. Whitson laughed grimly and told Namoz that his potion of eternal life was killing his minion, and mourned the loss of the last son of a once-noble family, and prepared to run with Lander and Hollie, as there were hundreds of dragons under the water. Hollie stopped sobbing and said that she could run, and Whitson told her that they took her blood but not her heart. Hollie, wiping her eyes, said that they would pay if they ever came for her blood again, and Whitson nodded.

Namoz begins speaking of how not one of Whitson's camp would be left alive, when Grimble attacks. Whitson asks how Namoz will send Grimble to lead an attack when he is dead, and Namoz continued to insist that Grimble was not dead. Then the shroud Grimble was underneath twitched. Lander looked at Whitson, not sure if it really happened, and Whitson seemed to realize the danger. When Grimble rose out of the shroud as half dragon, Whitson groaned. The dragons then wonder why Grimble is still half rabbit, and the dragon sorcerer says that it is because Hollie is still alive, and one dragon points a crossbow at Hollie. Whitson steps between the crossbow and Hollie, saying that they will never kill her, as she is now his ward. Namoz says that she belongs to Grimble, and Whitson simply says that Hollie is under his protection.

They back toward the boat, and Whitson says that they came under terms of peace and they demand those terms be honored, as safe passage back is their right. Namoz laughed, saying that they had tried to raise them up, but they are troublesome and perhaps it would be better if they were wiped out entirely. Whitson said that they had only begun to see how troublesome they could be, and Namoz drew his sword and ran at them. Lander, Whitson, and Hollie ran toward the boat, but just before they reached it, Namoz caught up. He swiped at Whitson with his sword, but Lander's sword and Whitson's both caught it. But then Lander and Whitson both saw the clear path between Grimble and Hollie, and Grimble fired his crossbow. Whitson dived sideways, and intercepted the deadly bolt with his heart.

Hollie screamed, and Lander began dragging Whitson into the boat, thinking that there may still be time to save him. Lander hit the tripcord, and the pulley system Winnie had designed pulled the boat quickly away. Lander knelt over Whitson, saying that they would get him to Doctor Grimes, that they would save him. Whitson coughed and shook his head, and tried to take off the chain around his neck. Hollie helped him put the chain with the Ruling Stone around Lander's neck. Lander began to cry, and Whitson tried to speak but coughed. Hollie and Lander leaned in to hear Whitson's last words. He repeats part of Blackstar's Oath, my blood for yours. And then he dies.

**The army**: For Whitson Mariner!

—Prince Lander and the Dragon War

Lander begins to cry, appalled at what they had done. He saw all the soldiers on the shore, looking at the hundred dragons crossing the water, seeming afraid. Lander sees strong bucks carrying Whitson's body into the forest, with Hollie and Winnie attending to Whitson. Lander stood and leapt from the boat, yelling for them to fight for Whitson. A soldier passed him a fresh sword to replace his broken one, and Lander shouted for them to fight for the king. They all began to shout that they would fight for King Lander, and he is unsettled, having meant Whitson. But he lets them rally to him, and the Battle of Barren Point begins.

After the battle, Lander calls a council of war, inviting Fleck Blackstar and Massie Burnson (who have returned), and others such as Chief Heckle, Captain Walters, Brindle Cove, Lord Galvet, and Mother Saramack. Chief Heckle and Captain Walters get into another argument, Walters accusing Chief Heckle of thinking he knows better than Whitson, but Mother Saramack shouts that is enough, and they quiet. She then speaks to Lander, telling him that while she admires his humility at calling this council, she doesn't think it's the time for him to be humble. She tells him that when he speaks of the king's will he means King Whitson, but, with no disrespect intended, it doesn't matter what Whitson thinks, as he is no longer king. It matters what King Lander thinks, and she tells him that he knows the defensive strategy better than any of those at the table. Mother Saramack said that Hollie told her that, while she was attending Whitson's body, she saw Lander attack the first dragon. Lander then understood that he needed to attack the dragons, and dismissed the war council.

Lander and Lemual find Queen Lillie kneeling in the snow beside Whitson's body. The went and knelt beside her, and Lander wept. Fleck, Massie, and Gavin assisted Lander and Lemual in burying Whitson near a tree, and Lander smiles, thinking how lovely the tree will be in the spring. Queen Lillie says that the Prester will come and say the words, they will gather, and they might sing.

As they dig up the starsword, Lander tells Lemual (who returned from his mission) about the starsword. Lemual asks if this is really being faithful to Whitson's way, doing a lot of things Whitson would never have done, and Lander said that he thought it was. Lander thought that what he was doing was being the buck Whitson raised him to be, being who he should be with his own gifts, and working to accomplish what Whitson wanted to accomplish in the best way he knew how. Fleck tells Lander he is right, that Whitson had wanted Lander to go farther and do better than he had, and that Whitson would be proud of this.

### Legacy

Whitson was mentioned in passing by Whittle Longtreader as he tells his children, Heather and Picket, about Jupiter Goodson. A statue depicting him and Fleck Blackstar was erected inside Cloud Mountain, and served as namesake for King Whitson’s Garden.

Picket recalled Whitson Mariner as he reflected on the history of rabbits and raptors in Natalia. Fleck Blackstar was remembered as “Whitson Mariner’s savior.” Whitson was also noted repeatedly as being the ancestor of Bleston, though upon witnessing his treachery Heather scorned Bleston as being more akin to the dragon king. Maggie Weaver noted that Lady Glen was not a descendant of Whitson.

Picket Longtreader noted (incorrectly) that Whitson Mariner was the first king to reside in First Warren. Whitson was mentioned by Louise when she reminded Picket that they were imprisoned under First Warren. Heyna Blackstar also mentioned that he and Lillie had a daughter, Lucianne, who married Lord Blackstar II.

The dragon prince noted that Lander was the son of Whitson. When Heather and Smalls were rescued from the Tomb of Lander's Dragons, Heather commented on how the Tunneler and Whitson's heir were sailing into First Warren on the city's darkest day.

## Physical appearance

Little is known of Whitson's appearance, but it is presumed that he was a white rabbit. Whitson rarely wore his crown, and was only known to have done it on one occasion, but when he did it was described as 'glorious'.

## Personality and traits

Whitson was ambitious, and wanted to believe the best of everyone. Whitson was very brave, and he persevered despite all the difficulties he encountered. Fleck described Whitson as humble, and indeed he listened to commoners such as Fleck, valuing their thoughts and ideas. Whitson was a good leader, rallying his crew for the Battle of *Steadfast*, and inspiring many to follow him. He was a good king, noble and kind, though he was often headstrong.

Whitson Mariner was, according to Prince Lander, a "legendary warrior".

## Family trees

 - The Royal Family of Natalia -

Note: Broken lines indicate relation through affinity or adoption or distant relation; unbroken lines indicate relation by blood.

 - The Blackstar Family -

\*Note: The identity of Lord Blackstar II and his relationship to Fleck Blackstar is currently unknown.
## Relationships

### Whit

Whitson loved his father very much. Whitson told Prince Lander that he would rather have stayed with Whit than ever be king, and that when he left Golden Coast he hated so much to leave Whit behind.

### Lillie

**Whitson**: And I love you, my dear.

—*Prince Lander and the Dragon War*

Whitson describes Lillie as 'beautiful' and marvels at her abilities. Whitson shares all his troubles with Lillie. Most of the time she has an answer, but when she does not she simply supports him, which he appreciates. Whitson expresses doubt that he could ever be without her. Sometimes they argue, but most of the time they are together in everything.

### Lander, Lemual, Davis, Grant, and Lucianne Whitson

Whitson loved Lander deeply, and shared much with his son. In his later years, Whitson did many things to prepare him for his future kingship, with Lander as one of his advisors. Lemual said Lander was always a faithful son.

Lemual did not have as deep a relationship with Whitson as Lander did, being younger. He did not like having to leave with the Third Scouts, wanting to stay behind and help. Lem did many things to help Whitson's cause, and defended his father to other rabbits. Upon learning of Whitson's death, Lemual was very sad.

Davis was described as 'beloved' by Queen Lillie. When Namoz comments upon the death of Davis, Whitson said nothing, but was presumably angry.

Even though Grant often disagreed with his father, Whitson loved his son deeply. Grant was impulsive and would contradict Whitson often, and then would ask Whitson's forgiveness. Whitson, while disliking how much he argued, each time forgave him and Grant came to realize the wisdom that was in Whitson's battle plans.

Lucianne was Whitson and Lillie's only daughter.

### Grant

Lord Grant stood by Whitson in everything. He loved Whitson very much, and often offered words of comfort and advice. He died defending Whitson's Trekkers, and Whitson described him as knowing what it meant to act nobly. Whitson and Lillie named their fourth son after Lord Grant.

### Saramack

Following the Betrayal of Vanguard, Whitson mourned Mother Saramack's apparent loss keenly, as she had been something of a mother to him. Whitson seeks her advice often, as she is wise. Before the peace summit with Grimble, Mother Saramack leaves her secret chamber to see Whitson off. She tells him that she owes him everything, and is so grateful to him. He blesses her, kneeling to kiss her hand.

### Walters

Walters was Whitson's right hand. He served King Whitson for years and was faithful to him.

### Fleck Blackstar

**Prince Lander**: So you are like your father?

****Whitson Mariner****: He is.

—*The Black Star of Kingston*, pg. 148

Fleck was described as very faithful, and indeed he was. Fleck saved Whitson's life many times, and was the originator of Blackstar's oath, which would become the creed of those of Whitson's line. Whitson listened to Fleck's ideas and thoughts, even though he was a commoner, eventually making Fleck the lord of Kingston. Whitson called Fleck a hero.

### Massie Burnson

**Whitson Mariner**: You may help me by doing what you have been doing, *Captain* Massie.

**Massie**: Your Majesty?

**Whitson**: Yes, Captain. I am promoting you this day and this moment ordering you to go below and see to my family. Eat and drink with them. Get a little rest, if you can.

—*The Wreck and Rise of Whitson Mariner*, pg. 131

Massie was very loyal to Whitson. When looking for Lillie, Whitson trusted Massie enough to leave Massie with his son. After hearing of Massie's service, he made Massie a captain.
Whitson later asked for Massie to be brought to him, but Massie was still on his errand with Fleck.

### Grimble Halfdragon

Grimble followed his father in hating Whitson. Whitson tried to make peace by giving Grimble a command, but Grimble used this to betray Whitson and kidnap his wife. Whitson was appalled and angry at this, and he decides to battle Grimble, saying Grimble must answer for the treachery. Grimble knew Whitson well, knowing how to devastate him best and also that Whitson was not treacherous like himself.

Following the creation of the Grimble faction, Whitson tried many times to make peace with Grimble, inviting him back to Whitson's community and away from the intense evil he had sunk into. However, Grimble declined this each time, inviting Whitson into his evil ways, which Whitson declined. Grimble was involved in much treachery surrounding Whitson, from spies in the loyalists to a dragon ambush at the peace summit. His actions eventually resulted in Whitson's death.

### Namoz Dragonking

Whitson lists Namoz among his enemies. His third son, Davis, was killed by Namoz. Whitson declines any offer to rule under Namoz, hating the dragons and their dark rites. He taunts Namoz some, but is generally disgusted with the evil of this creature.

## Trivia

* The surname "Mariner" refers to Whitson's occupation as a sailor and seaman.