Sedgewick Gyles, commonly referred to as “Sedge” by those who know him well, was born in the wind-swept town of Windmere, a bustling community renowned for its innovations in airship technology. From a young age, Sedge was captivated by the skies and the whimsical nature of flight. Growing up in a household that celebrated science and invention, he found inspiration in the tales of airborne explorers and the intricate mechanics of airships that drifted above his home.
Sedge’s father was a clockmaker, meticulously crafting timepieces that not only told time but incorporated clever mechanical designs that piqued Sedge’s curiosity about engineering. His mother, an avid naturalist, would often take him on walks through the nearby woods, explaining the principles of aerodynamics and climate. This combination of influences fostered Sedge’s love for understanding the natural world and applying that knowledge to create innovative solutions.
Eager to learn more, Sedge studied mechanical engineering at a prestigious academy in Windmere. He focused mainly on the swirling dynamics of air and its effects on flight. His professors recognized his keen intellect and aptitude for problem-solving, often encouraging him to think in innovative terms. He graduated with honors at the top of his class, specializing in atmospheric engineering, a burgeoning field within airship design.
“Ms. Briggs, ring down to the engine room and report the altitude situation. Atmos, current wind speed and direction?”
The atmos, Sedgewick Gyles, rattled off a series of numbers. Then he added, “Pressure gradient indicates a fast-moving thermal above us, sir. Maybe a hundred feet up. Direction, north-northeast.”
The thermal was good news. If they reached it fast enough, they could use it to increase the distance between themselves and their attacker.
- THE INVERSION SOLUTION
After completing his studies, Sedge sought opportunities to apply his skills practically. He began his career as an intern with a small airship company, quickly immersing himself in research and development. He gained valuable experience designing hot air mechanisms and atmospheric stabilizers, which would soon prove invaluable. However, he longed for a grander adventure, a chance to work on a larger vessel that could change how people interacted with the skies.
When the opportunity arose to join the crew of the Griffin, a state-of-the-art airship preparing for incredible expeditions, Sedge jumped at the chance. He was thrilled to learn from seasoned engineers and to contribute to the ship’s state-of-the-art systems, particularly those related to environmental controls and atmospheric pressure management. As the atmospheric engineer, he is responsible for ensuring the ship’s systems maintain ideal conditions for the crew and cargo, and that performance and safety are optimized.
While serving on the Griffin, Sedge has faced numerous challenges, including unforeseen weather conditions that tested his expertise. He rapidly developed his technical skills and ability to think on his feet when adjusting to real-time atmospheric variations. Sedge works long hours, often studying and tweaking the airship’s systems to ensure they operate harmoniously with the elements.
FIRST APPEARANCE
Sedgewick first appears in The Nullification Engine (The Alchemancer Book Two).
