Who Holds the Dawn Arthur Dayne's Sword in A Song of Ice and Fire?

In the complex tapestry of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire (ASOIAF) series, the Dawn Arthur Dayne sword has a significant role. From its creation as a unique and potent weapon to its current status, the ownership of Dawn is an intriguing part of the dynasty's legacy.

The History of Dawn

During the events of Robert's Rebellion, Ser Arthur Dayne, a legendary and noble knight of House Dayne, met his end. Following his death, the Vor of Dawn was returned to the House Dayne's seat, Starfall, as a symbol of their inheritance and heritage.

However, the series does not explicitly mention the current holder of Dawn up to the latest published book. Instead, alternative sources, such as supplementary materials and lore, suggest that Dawn is a unique and significant weapon, made from a meteorite and deeply connected to the history and legacy of House Dayne.

The Current Status of Dawn

As of now, the office of the Sword of the Morning is vacant, awaiting a member of House Dayne worthy of wielding it. Ned Stark, who initially took possession of Dawn, returned it to the seat of Starfall, the holdfast of House Dayne. Despite the many turbulent events that have taken place since then, such as the conflicts over Dorne and the subsequent wars, neither Edric Dayne, the heir to Starfall and a squire in the Brotherhood without Banners, nor Gerold "Darkstar," on the run from Obara Sand and a Martell search party, has proven themselves worthy enough to wield the sword.

Valyrian swords, including Dawn, are typically passed down through generations among the heirs of the family. However, the House Dayne deviates from this tradition in their approach to wielding Dawn. The sword is only given to the heir if they have demonstrated their worthiness to swing it. Thus, after the Battle at the Tower of Joy, Ned Stark returned the sword to Starfall. The holdfast has yet to find a warrior worthy enough to take on the responsibility of wielding Dawn.

The symbolic significance of Dawn extends beyond its martial value. It is a testament to the noble heritage and endurance of House Dayne, signifying the lineage's striving for excellence and valor. As the legacy of Dawn continues to play a role in the series, whether it is wielded by a worthy heir remains an open question, intriguing fans and scholars alike.