Star Born · Chapter
XV: Arena explained
Dalgard is captured and brought before a tribunal of Those Others, who interrogate him about his origins and his alliance with the merpeople.
What happens
Dalgard is captured and brought before a tribunal of Those Others, who interrogate him about his origins and his alliance with the merpeople. He is condemned as a 'beast friend' and sentenced to death. Meanwhile, Raf Kurbi, who has been secretly observing the aliens, makes contact with Dalgard through mind-speech and resolves to rescue him.
Themes in this chapter
Alien Encounter and Otherness
Dalgard's trial and condemnation by Those Others highlights the deep cultural and perceptual divide between humans and the alien race.
Friendship and Loyalty
Raf's determination to rescue Dalgard despite the danger underscores the bond forming between the two Terrans.
Freedom and Oppression
Dalgard's imprisonment and the summary judgment by Those Others illustrate the oppressive nature of the alien regime.
Characters to notice
- Dalgard Nordis
Captured and imprisoned by Those Others; communicates telepathically with Raf; stands trial before the alien tribunal.
- Raf Kurbi
Observes Dalgard's capture from hiding; establishes mental contact with Dalgard; decides to attempt a rescue.
- Sssuri
Mentioned as Dalgard's companion; Dalgard tries to reach him mentally for help.
Key passages
“Beast friends with beast. As the beasts—so shall you end. It is spoken.”
The alien officer declares that Dalgard, because of his friendship with the merpeople, will be killed like an animal.
The tribunal's final judgment against Dalgard, reflecting their contempt for his alliance with the sea people.
“He was shaking with a chill born of no outside cold. First the shock of hearing that language, queerly accented as the words were, then that sharp contact, mind to mind.”
Raf trembles from the shock of hearing the alien language and the sudden telepathic contact with Dalgard.
Raf's reaction to the mental communication and his realization that a Terran colony exists on the planet.