#House Lannister

[novaursa]

Legacy (of bloodline)

- Summary: Tywin was the man who saved you from Robert's wrath. He was also the man who doomed you.

- Paring: targ!reader/Tywin Lannister

- Rating: Mature 16+

- Previous part: dragonstone

- Next part: castle black

- Tag(s): @sachaa-ff @oxymakestheworldgoround @luniaxi @alkadri-layal

- A/N: Merry Christmas! 🎄❤️

The sun was beginning its descent over the jagged peaks of Dragonstone, casting long shadows across the courtyard. The salty tang of the Narrow Sea lingered in the air, mingling with the faint scent of smoke from the distant forges. You sat on a stone bench beneath the arch of an ancient alcove, your gaze fixed on the rolling waves beyond the castle walls. Damon played nearby, toddling around with a carved wooden dragon in his chubby hands, his laughter ringing out like a melody against the stillness of the evening.

Standing a short distance away, Ser Barristan Selmy, clad in his gleaming white armor, observed you with the same vigilance he had honed over decades. His hand rested lightly on the hilt of his sword, though his demeanor was calm, almost contemplative.

"You’ve been awfully quiet, Ser Barristan," you said softly, not turning to look at him. "I’m used to you offering wisdom, not silence."

The old knight allowed a faint smile, though his eyes remained watchful. "It’s not often I find myself with nothing to say, my lady," he replied. "But watching over you and your son has reminded me of… other times."

You glanced at him, curiosity flickering in your violet eyes. "Other times? Do you mean my father?"

Ser Barristan hesitated for a moment, his brow furrowing slightly. "Your father, yes," he said finally. "But also your brother. And your house. I’ve served many Targaryens, my lady, each of you unique."

You nodded faintly, folding your hands in your lap. "And how do we compare to them?"

He chuckled softly, a rare sound. "It’s not a comparison, my lady. It’s a legacy. One that you carry with grace… and fire."

"Fire," you repeated, your voice tinged with a mixture of amusement and solemnity. "That seems to be all anyone sees in us. Fire and blood."

"That is your house’s motto," he said gently. "But it is also its truth. You wield both with wisdom, my lady. Not many can claim the same."

Your gaze drifted back to Damon, who was now crouched in the dirt, intently examining a line of ants. His innocence, his unbridled joy in the simplest of things, made your heart ache with both love and fear. "Sometimes, I wonder if that fire will consume us all," you said quietly.

Ser Barristan stepped closer, his tone firm but kind. "Fire, when tamed, can be a tool. A light in the darkness. It is only when it is left unchecked that it becomes destructive."

You met his gaze, searching for the wisdom behind his words. "Do you believe my fire can be tamed?"

He hesitated again, his expression thoughtful. "I believe it already has been," he said finally. "By your love for your son. And by the choices you make each day."

A soft smile touched your lips as you looked back at Damon, who was now holding up his wooden dragon as though it could truly fly. "He is my world," you admitted softly. "Everything I do is for him."

"As it should be," Ser Barristan said, his voice warm with approval. "You are a mother before anything else, my lady. That is a strength few can match."

You turned back to him, a question lingering in your eyes. "And yet, there are those who would see that as weakness. Who would take it and twist it against me."

Ser Barristan’s expression hardened slightly, his hand tightening on his sword hilt. "Let them try," he said simply. "They will find no weakness in you, only resolve."

You let out a quiet laugh, though it carried a note of gratitude. "You always know what to say, Ser Barristan."

"It is my duty to protect you, my lady," he said, bowing his head slightly. "Not just with my sword, but with my counsel."

The two of you sat in comfortable silence for a moment, the only sounds Damon’s laughter and the distant crash of waves against the cliffs. Finally, you spoke again, your voice quieter now.

"Do you ever wonder if my father saw any of this coming?" you asked. "The dragons returning, the battles for power, the… uncertainty of it all?"

Ser Barristan’s face grew somber, his gaze distant. "Your father… saw many things, my lady. Some of them real, others… the product of his mind’s decline. But I do believe he knew that the Targaryen fire would one day burn brightly again. Perhaps he saw it in you."

You nodded slowly, absorbing his words. "Perhaps," you murmured. "Or perhaps he simply wanted to believe it, even as the fire consumed him."

Ser Barristan said nothing, his silence a quiet acknowledgment of the truth in your words. But as the sun set lower, casting the courtyard in warm hues, you felt a flicker of hope amid the uncertainty.

For now, at least, you were not alone. And with Damon’s laughter filling the air and Ser Barristan’s steadfast presence by your side, you felt ready to face whatever the future held.

The courtyard of Dragonstone was filled with the sounds of clinking steel and the rhythmic stomp of boots as a few soldiers sparred near the barracks. The volcanic rock beneath their feet radiated a faint warmth even in the cool sea breeze, a constant reminder of the island’s fiery heart. The castle’s dark spires loomed overhead, their ancient stone stark against the pale sky.

Tywin Lannister stood at the edge of the courtyard, his posture rigid, hands clasped behind his back. His pale green eyes surveyed the activity below with his usual air of authority, though his expression betrayed no particular interest in the proceedings.

Beside him, Jaime Lannister, clad in his gilded armor, leaned against the stone parapet, a faint smirk playing on his lips. He tilted his head slightly, watching the men train as the sea wind ruffled his hair.

“Still feels strange,” Jaime said, breaking the silence.

Tywin’s gaze didn’t waver. “What does?”

“This,” Jaime replied, gesturing broadly to the castle around them. “A Lannister living here, ruling Dragonstone. If you’d told me a few years ago, I’d have laughed.”

Tywin turned his head slightly, fixing Jaime with a cool stare. “And yet, here we are. You’d do well to adjust.”

Jaime chuckled softly, shaking his head. “Oh, I’ve adjusted, Father. Believe me. It’s just surreal, that’s all. The House of the Lion, sitting comfortably in the lair of dragons.” He glanced at Tywin, his smirk widening. “You have to admit, it’s not exactly what anyone expected.”

Tywin’s lips tightened, though his tone remained measured. “The unexpected often proves the most valuable, provided one knows how to use it.”

Jaime turned back to the sparring men, his tone turning more reflective. “And what of Damon? One day, all of this will be his—Dragonstone, Casterly Rock. It’s a lot for a boy who hasn’t yet seen his second name day.”

Tywin’s gaze flickered toward the horizon, his expression unreadable. “He is my son. He will learn.”

Jaime raised a brow, his voice tinged with amusement. “You sound confident.”

“I am,” Tywin said simply. “Damon is young, but he carries the blood of two powerful houses. He has his mother’s intelligence, and he will have my discipline. He will be prepared.”

Jaime nodded thoughtfully, though his tone remained light. “And what if he doesn’t want all this? What if he grows up and decides he’d rather ride away from all this and live a simple life?”

Tywin’s gaze snapped to Jaime, his eyes sharp. “A Lannister does not have the luxury of simplicity. Damon will understand his duty, just as you were meant to.”

Jaime held up his golden hand in mock surrender, though his smirk didn’t falter. “Relax, Father. I’m not questioning your plans. I’m just… imagining.”

Tywin’s expression softened slightly—though only slightly—as he returned his gaze to the courtyard. “Damon’s future will not be left to imagination. He will have what is his by right, and he will rule it with strength.”

Jaime studied his father for a moment, his smirk fading. “You care for him, don’t you? I mean, really care for him.”

Tywin didn’t answer immediately, his eyes fixed on the sparring men below. “I care for my family. And Damon is the future of that family.”

Jaime nodded slowly, his tone quieter now. “He’s lucky, you know. To have you here.”

Tywin glanced at Jaime, his expression softening imperceptibly. “He will need more than luck, Jaime. The world is not kind to those who inherit power. It will test him, as it tests us all.”

Jaime said nothing for a moment, his gaze drifting to the distant sea. Finally, he let out a quiet chuckle. “Well, if nothing else, at least he’ll have the Rock and this… charming fortress of Y/N’s. A lion ruling a dragon’s lair. It has a certain poetry to it, doesn’t it?”

Tywin allowed himself the faintest of smiles, though it vanished as quickly as it appeared. “Poetry has no place in politics, Jaime. This is about legacy.”

“And Damon is that legacy,” Jaime said, his tone laced with a rare sincerity.

Tywin inclined his head slightly, his gaze returning to the courtyard below. “Indeed. And I will see that he is ready for it.”

The two men stood in silence for a moment, the weight of their conversation hanging in the air. The distant crash of waves against the cliffs echoed through the courtyard, a reminder of the unyielding strength of Dragonstone and the family now tied to its destiny.

The evening air on was heavy with the scent of salt and the faint metallic tang of volcanic rock. Outside, the sea crashed rhythmically against the cliffs, the sound both soothing and ominous in the quiet of the night.

You sat in a high-backed chair near the fire, your hands loosely clasped in your lap. The soft fabric of your gown pooled around your feet, and the golden glow of the flames danced across your silver hair. Tywin Lannister stood at the window, his silhouette sharp against the moonlight as he gazed out at the endless expanse of water. His presence filled the room as it always did, commanding even in stillness.

For a while, neither of you spoke. The silence between you was not uncomfortable, but weighted with the thoughts each of you carried. Finally, you broke the quiet, your voice steady but soft. “Tywin.”

He turned to look at you, his green eyes reflecting the firelight. “Yes?”

You hesitated for a moment, gathering your thoughts. “I’ve been thinking… about what we discussed last week.”

He raised a brow, his expression curious but guarded. “And?”

You shifted slightly in your seat, your fingers brushing the edge of the armrest. “About having another child,” you said quietly. “I’ve thought about it—truly—and I’ve decided… I’m willing.”

Tywin’s gaze sharpened, though he did not immediately respond. He stepped away from the window, crossing the room with measured steps until he stood before you. “You’ve made up your mind?” he asked, his tone calm but probing.

You nodded, meeting his gaze. “I have. Damon is a blessing, Tywin, and he deserves a sibling. Someone to share his duty with. And I… I want this.”

For a moment, Tywin said nothing, his expression unreadable as he studied you. Then, he reached out, his hand brushing lightly against your cheek before resting beneath your chin, tilting your face up to meet his. “You’re certain?” he asked, his voice quieter now.

“I am,” you replied firmly, your violet eyes unwavering. “It’s not just for Damon, or for the legacy. It’s for us.”

A flicker of something softer passed through Tywin’s eyes, though his composure remained steady. He nodded slowly, his hand lingering for a moment before he stepped back. “You’ve always understood the weight of what we carry,” he said, his tone laced with something resembling approval. “This is no small decision.”

“I know,” you said softly, standing to face him. “But it’s the right one. And it’s one I want to make with you.”

Tywin’s expression softened—just barely—as he reached for your hand, his thumb brushing against your knuckles. “You’ve always been strong, Y/N,” he said, his voice carrying an edge of rare affection. “Stronger than most realize. Perhaps stronger than I deserve.”

You smiled faintly, squeezing his hand. “You deserve more than you allow yourself to believe, Tywin. And you will be a father worthy of both our children.”

For a moment, the weight of the world seemed to lift, leaving only the quiet intimacy of the room and the connection between you. Tywin leaned forward, his lips brushing softly against your forehead before resting his hand at the small of your back.

“We’ll do this,” he said quietly, his voice steady. “For Damon. For our family.”

You rested your head against his chest, closing your eyes as the steady rhythm of his heartbeat filled the silence. In that moment, there was no fire, no blood, no legacy weighing you down—only the promise of the future and the strength you found in each other.

Ten moons later

The chambers within Dragonstone were low lit, the heavy drapes pulled to block out the rising storm outside. The air was thick with the mingled scents of burning herbs, seawater carried in by the howling winds, and the faint metallic tang of blood. The hearth blazed brightly, its warmth doing little to stave off the tension in the room.

You lay propped against a mound of pillows on a sturdy birthing bed, your silver hair damp and clinging to your flushed skin. The midwives bustled around you, their soft murmurs blending with the distant rumble of thunder. A damp cloth dabbed at your forehead, its coolness providing brief relief against the heat building within you.

Nearby, Tywin Lannister stood with his arms crossed, his expression unreadable but his gaze locked on you. He was a looming figure of composure, though the slight tightening of his jaw betrayed the concern he refused to voice.

“You’re certain you won’t allow the maester?” one of the midwives asked tentatively, her hands wringing a clean linen cloth. Her voice was calm but edged with worry.

Your gaze flickered toward her, and despite the pain gripping your body, your tone was firm. “I’ve told you already—no maesters. I trust you, not their potions and knives.”

The midwife bowed her head, murmuring, “Of course, my lady.”

Tywin’s gaze narrowed slightly as he stepped closer to the bedside. “You’ve always been stubborn,” he said, his voice low but carrying its usual authority. “But if this becomes difficult, you will reconsider.”

You turned your head slightly to look at him, a faint smile tugging at your lips despite the beads of sweat on your brow. “If I endured Damon’s birth without them, I can endure this.”

“This child may be different,” Tywin countered, his tone measured but edged with concern.

“Every birth is different,” one of the midwives interjected gently, glancing nervously between the two of you. “But Lady Y/N is strong, my lord. She’ll manage.”

“I always do,” you whispered, though your words were cut off by a sharp gasp as another wave of pain gripped your body.

Your fingers tightened around the edge of the sheets, but you refused to scream. The sound that escaped your lips was more of a muffled yelp, barely audible over the crackling of the fire. The midwives exchanged worried glances but continued their work, checking the progress of the birth with practiced hands.

Tywin’s jaw clenched as he watched you, his hands curling into fists at his sides. “You don’t need to swallow your pain,” he said quietly, his tone softer than usual. “There’s no shame in it.”

You shook your head weakly, your breath coming in shallow pants. “It’s not… shame,” you managed to say, your voice strained but determined. “It’s control. I won’t let this… defeat me.”

His gaze softened fractionally, though his face remained impassive. “Stubborn, as always.”

You let out a faint chuckle, though it turned into a sharp inhale as another contraction rolled through your body. One of the midwives stepped forward, adjusting the pillows behind you and murmuring soothing words you barely registered.

“How far along?” Tywin asked the head midwife, his voice calm but clipped.

“Still early, my lord,” she replied cautiously, wiping her hands on her apron. “It may take some time yet.”

Tywin nodded curtly, his gaze returning to you. “I’m staying,” he said, leaving no room for argument.

You glanced at him, your lips twitching into a faint smirk despite the pain. “I didn’t expect otherwise.”

The storm outside grew louder, the wind howling like a dragon’s roar as rain lashed against the windows. Inside the chamber, the anxiety was at a high, every movement and sound magnified by the weight of the moment.

You gritted your teeth as another contraction built, your hands gripping the edge of the bed. The midwives hovered nearby, their voices low but reassuring, as they prepared for what was to come.

The storm outside raged on, its fury mirrored in the intensity of the final moments of your labor. Thunder rolled across Dragonstone, shaking the ancient walls as rain lashed against the windows in unrelenting torrents. 

You gripped the edges of the birthing bed, your knuckles white with effort. The midwives hovered around you, their voices calm but firm, guiding you through each agonizing moment. Your breaths came in ragged gasps, your hair plastered to your forehead as the tension in the room built to a crescendo.

“Almost there, my lady,” the head midwife said, her tone both encouraging and resolute. “Just one more push.”

You nodded weakly, summoning the last reserves of your strength. With a guttural sound that was more force than scream, you bore down, your body trembling with the effort. The pain was blinding, searing through every nerve, but then, like the breaking of a storm, there was release.

A sharp cry pierced the air—a new life taking its first breath.

The midwives moved quickly, their hands gentle yet practiced as they swaddled the infant in clean linen. The head midwife turned to you with a wide smile, her face flushed with relief and joy. “It’s a boy, my lady.”

You let out a shaky breath, your body sinking back into the pillows as the weight of the moment washed over you. Your heart pounded in your chest, but a sense of overwhelming relief and love began to fill the void left by the pain.

Tywin, who had remained a steady presence by your side, stepped closer, his attention fixed on the squirming bundle in the midwife’s arms. His expression was unreadable, though his gaze softened as the midwife handed him the child.

“Here, my lord,” she said, bowing her head slightly as she placed the infant into Tywin’s arms.

For a moment, Tywin stood perfectly still, his strong hands cradling the newborn with a gentleness that seemed almost uncharacteristic. The child’s tiny fists waved in the air, his cries strong and fierce, as though already asserting himself in the world.

Tywin’s lips pressed into a thin line, his gaze unwavering as he studied his son. “He’s strong,” he said quietly, his voice carrying an edge of approval.

You watched the scene through half-lidded eyes, exhaustion pulling at you even as a faint smile graced your lips. “What will you name him?” you asked softly, your voice hoarse from the effort of labor.

Tywin’s gaze shifted to you, his expression briefly unreadable before he looked back down at the infant. He was silent for a long moment, the weight of his decision felt in the room.

“Maelor,” he said finally, his voice firm and deliberate. “Maelor Lannister.”

The name hung in the air, resonating with strength and tradition. It was a name that carried the weight of both Targaryen and Lannister heritage—another bridge between fire and gold.

The midwives exchanged glances, murmuring their approval as they began tidying the room. One of them approached to take the child from Tywin, but he held up a hand, his gaze fixed on his son.

“I’ll take him to his mother,” Tywin said, his tone brooking no argument.

The midwife hesitated, then stepped back with a nod. Tywin moved to your side, lowering himself onto the edge of the bed as he gently placed Maelor into your arms. The baby’s cries softened as he settled against you, his tiny face scrunching in curiosity as he opened his violet eyes for the first time.

You gazed down at him, tears welling in your eyes as you ran a finger gently over his cheek. “Maelor,” you whispered, tasting the name as though it were a gift.

Tywin’s hand rested on your shoulder, a rare gesture of affection that spoke volumes. “He will be strong,” he said quietly. “Like his mother.”

You glanced up at him, a faint smile tugging at your lips. “And cunning, like his father.”

For the first time in what felt like ages, Tywin allowed a small, almost imperceptible smile to cross his lips. “A good combination,” he said simply.

The storm outside began to subside, the thunder growing distant as the rain softened to a steady patter. Inside the chamber, the atmosphere shifted, the anxiety giving way to a quiet, shared sense of triumph.

The great hall of Dragonstone was alive with subdued activity, the ancient volcanic stone echoing with the murmurs of lords, knights, and attendants who had gathered to await word. Despite the flickering firelight from the massive hearth, a chill hung in the air—an notion born of expectation. Large banners, emblazoned with both the lion of House Lannister and the sigil of House Targaryen, adorned the walls, their contrasting colors a stark reminder of the union that had shaped the future of this hall.

At the far end of the chamber, Tywin Lannister appeared, his stride purposeful as he descended the steps from the private corridors that led to the birthing chambers. His crimson cloak, lined with gold, swept the floor behind him, and his eyes were sharp, commanding the attention of everyone present. The room quieted instantly, a silence falling like the weight of a drawn blade.

Tywin paused at the head of the hall, his gaze sweeping over the crowd with the precision of a general surveying his troops. Without preamble, his voice rang out, strong and steady.

“My wife has given birth to a son,” he declared, his words echoing through the vast space. “He is healthy and strong. His name is Maelor Lannister.”

A ripple of murmurs spread through the hall, the gathered lords and knights exchanging nods and whispers of approval. Tywin allowed the moment to settle before continuing, his tone brooking no dissent.

“Let the celebrations proceed,” he commanded. “But with restraint. The child’s health and my wife’s recovery take precedence. Keep your revelry within reason.”

The hall erupted in a wave of applause and cheers, though they were tempered, as if even the joy of the occasion bowed to Tywin’s authority. Goblets were raised, and servants scurried to ensure the wine flowed freely.

At the edge of the hall, Ser Barristan Selmy, ever vigilant, lingered near the entrance to the private chambers. His armor caught the flickering firelight as he stood with one hand resting lightly on the pommel of his sword. His watchful eyes scanned the crowd, noting every movement and face with the precision of a seasoned knight.

It was then that he spotted Varys, the spymaster’s unmistakable figure leaning casually against a column. Varys’s hands were folded neatly in front of him, his silken robes flowing as he inclined his head in greeting toward Ser Barristan. His smile was subtle, yet unmistakable—a smile that spoke of secrets known and yet to be revealed.

Ser Barristan frowned slightly, his expression hardening as he straightened. “You seem… pleased,” he said, his tone careful but edged with suspicion.

Varys’s smile widened faintly as he stepped closer, his soft footsteps barely audible against the stone. “It is always a joy to witness the continuation of a noble bloodline,” he said smoothly, his voice carrying the practiced calm of a man accustomed to intrigue. “And what a bloodline it is, Ser Barristan. Another son born of lion and dragon. A moment worthy of the histories.”

Barristan’s hand remained steady on his sword. “And what role do you imagine yourself playing in this history, Lord Varys?”

Varys chuckled softly, his gaze flitting briefly toward Tywin at the head of the hall. “Why, none at all. I am but an observer, Ser Barristan. A humble servant of the realm, as ever.”

The knight’s gaze didn’t waver. “Some would call your humility suspect.”

“Some would,” Varys admitted, his smile never faltering. “But we each have our roles to play, do we not?”

Before Barristan could respond, Jaime Lannister approached his father, he strode through the crowd with his characteristic ease. His golden hand rested casually at his side, his expression equal parts curious and amused.

“Father,” Jaime said, his voice cutting through the murmurs around them as he came to stand beside Tywin. “So, another lion to the den. You must be pleased.”

Tywin turned to face Jaime, his expression as impassive as ever. “I am,” he said simply. “Maelor will strengthen our family’s future.”

Jaime smirked faintly, tilting his head. “You’ve always been about the future. What about the present? Will we be allowed to see him, or is he to remain cloistered with his mother for the next year?”

Tywin’s gaze narrowed slightly, his tone sharp. “Your new brother is with his mother, where he belongs. You’ll see him in due time.”

Jaime raised a brow, his smirk widening. “Of course. Wouldn’t want to disrupt the carefully laid plans.”

Tywin didn’t rise to the bait, his focus returning to the hall. “This is not the time for your flippancy, Jaime. This is a moment for the family, and for the legacy we build.”

Jaime glanced toward the gathered lords and ladies, raising his golden hand in mock surrender. “Far be it from me to interrupt the legacy.”

Nearby, Varys’s gaze lingered on the Lannisters, his expression thoughtful as the celebration continued. Ser Barristan kept his eyes on the spymaster, his unease unspoken but palpable.

As the wine flowed and the hall buzzed with muted revelry, the weight of the evening hung heavy in the air. The birth of Maelor Lannister was not just a moment of joy—it was a statement, a promise, and a warning to all who dared to challenge the combined strength of lion and dragon.

And though the great hall was filled with warmth and light, shadows loomed at the edges, whispering of the challenges yet to come.

[stormborns]

GAME OF THRONES 4.06, The Laws of Gods and Men

[cynicalclassicist]

It's good art anyway.

Lanns n Starks lineups/costumes sketches that I will probably add other houses to. Tywin and Joff & the rest aren't here because I was lazy and Cerseis dress took all of my energy. Don't ask me about inspiration or historical basis for these

[visenya-targarye]

it's always a lannister beefing with a child

(honorable mention)

[quixoticclown]

Yes, these Muppets have taken Manhattan. The question now is can they HOLD it

[hylora]

Still a work in progress but I will post the timelapse one day, even if I never finished the piece

[cyansolsirin]

Both Kingslayer I will say

Queen Cersei and the (king)slayer (?

[oananovicov]

Jaimie of House Lannister - The Kingslayer.

[barbieaemond]

GAME OF THRONES S2E7 "A Man Without Honor"

[kudriaken]

House Lannister. My fanart series for the Great Houses from the ASOIAF. I wanted to make this for the longest time.

[lmaowh-at]

They put the slay in kin(g)slaying

[greenbloods]

honestly hilarious that the lannister siblings are all history freaks in different direction. cersei rolls her eyes that jaime doesn't know what the second blackfyre rebellion was about while he rattles off the tale of ser luthor pisseryon of daeron i's kingsguard, who served for all of seven moons before he died shitting himself en route to dorne. meanwhile tyrion's sitting in the corner reading maester leomore's neo-myrxist critique of archmaester hargreave's account of the Storming of the Dragonpit (The Warrior Himself: Examining the Dying of the Dragons in the Light of the Seven) and not paying attention to it one bit because he’s moping about how everyone in kings landing hates him, the imp, because he’s ugly and rich, and not because he’s a feudal overlord who is fundamentally detached from the immediate concerns of his starving subjects

[quiddling]

gay son OR thot daughter? i thought you said gay son AND thot daughter 😟

[novaursa]

The Second Daughter

- Summary: You were born as a second daughter under the watchful eye of a full moon. And just like the moon you were beautiful—and cursed to exist only in the dark.

- Paring: targ!reader/Jason Lannister

- Note: This is a sneak peek into a story that will take over after Between Pride and Fire.

- Rating: Mature 16+

- Tag(s): @sachaa-ff @oxymakestheworldgoround

Excerpts from Fire and Blood: The Life of Y/N Targaryen

The Birth of Y/N Targaryen (99 AC)

Grand Maester Mellos writes:

"It was on the night of a full moon, under skies alight with silver, that Lady Aemma Arryn gave birth to her second child at the manse in King's Landing. The labor was long and fraught, though Lady Aemma endured with the stoic grace for which she was known. When the hour of the bat arrived, the child came forth—a girl, pale-haired and lilac-eyed, with all the hallmarks of her Valyrian lineage. The babe, whom her parents would name Y/N, was the picture of perfection save for one cruel twist of fate: she did not see."

Mushroom, the fool, provides his account:

"When the baby first let out her wail, King Viserys (though not yet a king, mind you) burst into the birthing chamber. He had expected a boy, as men often do, but the sight of his daughter softened him at once. I saw him hold her, weeping openly, calling her ‘my little star.’ But the joy turned to sorrow before the sun rose. The maesters whispered their findings to the King and Queen—little Y/N was blind. Her lilac eyes, though beautiful as a spring morn, would never see the world around her. The joy in that room turned as cold as a long winter’s night."

Lady Aemma, overcome with grief, clutched the babe to her chest, her tears mingling with her husband's. Yet despite this sorrow, Y/N was loved fiercely by her parents. "She will never see the world," Viserys said, "but she will feel its love."

The Accession of King Viserys I (103 AC)

Grand Maester Mellos records:

"Upon the passing of the Old King Jaehaerys I in 103 AC, Viserys ascended to the Iron Throne. Y/N, though but four years old, was present at her father’s coronation, sitting quietly beside her elder sister, Rhaenyra, who delighted in the pageantry. Y/N, by contrast, showed little interest in the pomp of court life, even at so young an age. Though blind, she was said to have a preternatural sense of calm, often described as ‘otherworldly.’”

Mushroom recalls:

"Even as a babe, Y/N seemed to find no pleasure in the games of court. She clung to her mother’s skirts or her sister’s hand, never crying, never laughing as the other children did. Her blindness marked her apart, but so too did her gentleness. ‘Aemma’s grace reborn,’ the lords would whisper. Little did they know how much Viserys would favor her, sparing her from the demands placed upon her elder sister. Rhaenyra learned to charm and command, while Y/N was left to dream in her quiet world of dark."

The Bonding with Silverwing (108 AC)

Grand Maester Mellos writes:

"It was during the royal family’s visit to Dragonstone in 108 AC that Y/N Targaryen, then but nine years of age, performed a feat that astonished even the most seasoned Dragonkeepers. Drawn to the abandoned dragon Silverwing, once ridden by Queen Alysanne, Y/N approached her in Dragonmont. Those who witnessed it spoke of how the child sang to the dragon in High Valyrian, her voice carrying a melody so hauntingly beautiful that it seemed the dragon wept. Silverwing, known for her gentle nature, bent her great head to the blind girl, allowing her to touch her snout. From that moment forth, Y/N was counted as a dragonrider, though she could not see the skies she now commanded."

Mushroom, ever dramatic, adds:

"When Y/N sang, even the stones seemed to shiver. I swear on my twisted back, I saw Silverwing shed a tear as she lowered herself to the girl. ‘She knows her rider,’ said the Dragonkeepers, and I believed it. How could I not? Y/N could not see, but she felt the dragon’s heart, and that was enough."

Her Life at Court

Grand Maester Mellos writes:

"As Y/N grew, her beauty became a topic of much admiration. Her pale hair, always intricately braided by her own hand, and her serene demeanor earned her the adoration of lords and ladies alike. Yet, she remained a rare sight at court, preferring the solitude of the gardens or the companionship of her sister, Rhaenyra. King Viserys, protective of his second daughter, seldom required her presence at formal functions. When she did appear, her soft-spoken nature and gentle grace captivated all who met her."

Ser Lorent Marbrand, her sworn shield since childhood, was ever at her side, guiding her through the halls of the Red Keep and beyond. “She has no need of sight,” Ser Lorent once said. “She sees with her heart, and that is sharper than any blade.”

Mushroom, however, whispers of her loneliness:

"Though the court praised her beauty and grace, Y/N was no fool. She knew she was overlooked in favor of her elder sister. Rhaenyra, the Realm’s Delight, drew suitors like moths to a flame, while Y/N’s blindness and quiet demeanor made her an afterthought to many. Yet, those who truly knew her—her sister, her father, and even her dragon—held her in the highest regard."

The Princess and the Black Mare

Grand Maester Mellos writes:

"When Princess Y/N turned ten, her father, King Viserys, gifted her a black mare of remarkable intelligence. The horse, trained by the finest horsemasters in the realm, was taught to respond to subtle cues, guiding her blind rider with unmatched care. Though Y/N was hesitant at first, under the watchful eye of Ser Lorent Marbrand, her sworn shield, she quickly took to riding. The sight of the younger princess atop the sleek black mare became a source of wonder in King’s Landing. Lords and ladies alike would lean from their windows to catch a glimpse of her as she rode through the city with her knight."

Mushroom recounts:

"I remember the day the younger princess first rode through the streets of King's Landing. Her hair, pale as the moon, trailed behind her like a banner, and her lilac eyes stared forward as if she could see clearer than the rest of us. The people marveled, saying she was a dragon in human form, radiant even in her blindness. Courtiers, who should have been attending to their duties, would abandon their posts just to watch her ride. One minor lord—whose name I will not sully this account with—rushed out of the Great Sept mid-chant to witness her. He tripped, fell into a distillery of summerberry wine, and drowned. It took three days to find his body, and when they did, Septa Rhaedis claimed he looked like ‘a pickled egg.’ The court spoke of little else for weeks.”

The Art of Touch

Grand Maester Mellos records:

"In addition to her accomplishments as a rider, Y/N Targaryen also became skilled in embroidery, a talent few believed possible for one without sight. Guided by her Septa, Rhaedis, she learned to identify patterns by touch, stitching elaborate designs into fabrics with a precision that amazed even the most experienced needleworkers at court."

When asked how she knew what she was embroidering, the princess is said to have replied:

"I see it in my dreams. The threads whisper to me as the stars whisper to the skies."

Mushroom, of course, adds his own embellishment:

"The court marveled at her works, and some claimed she was blessed by the Seven or perhaps cursed by the Old Gods. Whatever the truth, her hands created beauty beyond compare. One such tapestry, depicting dragons in flight, hung in the Great Hall of the Red Keep for many years until it was destroyed during the Black Council."

Her Bond with Prince Daemon

Grand Maester Mellos writes:

"Among those closest to the princess, none held a more unique bond with her than Prince Daemon Targaryen, her uncle. Daemon, often described as brash and hot-tempered, was uncharacteristically gentle in her presence. He called her ‘little star,’ a name that echoed her father’s first words upon her birth. It was said that he would sit with her for hours, recounting tales of his travels and victories in the Stepstones, always mindful to paint vivid pictures with his words so that she might see the world through his voice."

Mushroom offers a more colorful account:

"Daemon adored the girl, perhaps more than he did his own ambitions. He’d sit beside her, polishing Dark Sister while she listened to his tales. ‘Do you dream of dragons, little star?’ he’d ask her. ‘I dream of them always,’ she’d reply. I daresay the Rogue Prince would have brought her the moon if she asked for it. He once told me that the gods gave her blindness so she might better see the truths the rest of us are too blind to notice."

Despite their closeness, some whispered that Daemon’s affection for Y/N was an act of defiance against Viserys, a way to provoke the King. Yet others believed it was genuine—a rare display of softness from a man known for his sharp edges.

The Death of Queen Aemma and the Naming of Rhaenyra (105 AC)

Grand Maester Mellos writes:

"The year 105 AC marked a time of profound sorrow and upheaval for House Targaryen. Queen Aemma Arryn, beloved by all, passed away in childbirth, her body unable to endure the strain of delivering the long-awaited male heir. The child, a boy named Baelon, survived but a day, his life as brief as a candle in the wind. The Red Keep was plunged into mourning, for the King had not only lost his queen but his hope for a son to secure the succession."

Mushroom, ever the dramatist, recounts:

"I was there when the Queen’s screams echoed through the halls of Maegor’s Holdfast, haunting us all. The maesters whispered of the impossible choice the King had made—save the babe or save the mother. In the end, neither survived. When King Viserys emerged from the chamber, his face was as pale as bone, and in his arms, he carried the lifeless child. The court fell silent as he whispered, ‘Aemma is gone.’ Yet, in his grief, his gaze fell upon his daughters, Rhaenyra and Y/N, as if to remind himself of what remained."

Y/N, only six years old, was said to have clung to her elder sister during the days of mourning. Blind though she was, she is said to have been acutely aware of the grief that permeated the Red Keep. “I heard her tears,” she later told her Septa, “and they sounded like rain upon stone.”

It was in the wake of Aemma’s death that Viserys made the momentous decision to name Rhaenyra his heir. Grand Maester Mellos writes:

"The King, bereft of sons, gathered his council and declared his eldest daughter, Rhaenyra, the Princess of Dragonstone and his chosen successor. The proclamation was met with mixed reactions, though none dared speak against it openly. Y/N, still a child, sat beside her sister during the ceremony, her small hand clutching Rhaenyra’s, as if to lend her strength. The court whispered of the younger princess’s quiet courage, though few noticed the tears that slipped from her unseeing eyes as the crown was placed upon Rhaenyra’s head."

The Marriage to Alicent Hightower (106 AC)

Grand Maester Mellos writes:

"In the year following Queen Aemma’s death, King Viserys shocked the realm by announcing his intention to marry Alicent Hightower, daughter of Ser Otto Hightower, the Hand of the King. The match, though politically advantageous, was seen by many as a betrayal of Aemma’s memory. None felt this more keenly than the King’s daughters, Rhaenyra and Y/N, who had grown close to Alicent during her time at court."

Mushroom provides his usual flair:

"The whispers began long before the announcement. I saw Lady Alicent visiting the King’s chambers more often than a lady ought. Some said she was there to comfort him, others to ensnare him. When the match was declared, Rhaenyra stormed from the Small Council chamber, her fury unmistakable. Y/N, by contrast, said nothing. She simply withdrew to her chambers, though I later heard her weeping through the walls. ‘She feels too deeply,’ Ser Lorent said. ‘Her heart sees what her eyes cannot.’”

Despite her youth, Y/N was said to have been torn between her affection for Alicent and her loyalty to her late mother and sister. Alicent, aware of the tension her marriage caused, reportedly sought to win over the younger princess. Mushroom recounts:

"Alicent would visit Y/N often, bringing her gifts of perfumes and silks, hoping to mend the rift. ‘I am still your friend,’ she would say. But Y/N, though polite, grew distant. She would not speak against Alicent, but neither did she embrace her. When asked by her Septa why she avoided the Queen, she simply replied, ‘I dream of Mother, and in my dreams, she is crying.’”

The Court’s Reaction

Grand Maester Mellos records:

"The court, ever a cauldron of intrigue, buzzed with speculation over the King’s remarriage. While some saw Alicent as a stabilizing influence, others whispered of her ambition. Rhaenyra’s displeasure was evident, and though Y/N’s feelings remained a mystery to many, her absence from court functions spoke volumes. It was said that the younger princess spent more time in the gardens or with her dragon, Silverwing, seeking solace in the quiet places of the Red Keep."

Mushroom, in his usual irreverence, concludes:

"If the King’s marriage to Alicent Hightower was a political move, it was a clumsy one. It drove a wedge between father and daughters, a rift that would only grow wider in the years to come. As for Y/N, the court often wondered what went on behind her lilac eyes, for she remained silent, even as the storm clouds gathered. ‘A storm is coming,’ she once told her Septa. ‘And when it breaks, none will escape the rain.’”

Thus began a new chapter for the Targaryen family, one marked by tension and the seeds of division that would later engulf the realm.

The Birth of Prince Aegon (107 AC)

Grand Maester Mellos writes:

"In the year 107 AC, Queen Alicent Hightower gave birth to her first child, a son named Aegon. The boy’s safe delivery was met with great celebration throughout the realm. King Viserys, whose grief over the loss of his firstborn son had lingered like a shadow, was said to have wept with joy at the sight of his living heir. The court rejoiced, though not all shared the King’s unbridled happiness."

Mushroom adds, with his usual candor:

"The King threw a grand feast for the birth of his son, lavishing praise upon Alicent as if she had brought forth a dragon herself. Rhaenyra sat stiffly at the high table, her face pale as milk, while Y/N, ever the quiet one, simply lowered her head. When the King raised a goblet and declared Aegon his 'future pride,' the Realm's Delight left the hall in silence. Y/N, as always, followed her sister like a shadow. The court murmured, but none dared speak their thoughts aloud."

The younger princess, blind though she was, seemed to sense the shifting tides. Septa Rhaedis later claimed that Y/N confided in her, saying, “The boy’s cries are like thunder. I hear storms in his wake.”

The Suitors of Rhaenyra

Grand Maester Mellos writes:

"Following the birth of Prince Aegon, the King turned his attention to securing alliances through marriage. Rhaenyra, now in her tenth year of life, had grown into a striking young woman, admired by all for her beauty and fiery spirit. Suitors from every corner of the realm descended upon King’s Landing, eager to win the hand of the Princess of Dragonstone."

The accounts of the court speak of endless gatherings in the throne room, where lords presented gifts and pledges of loyalty. Mushroom, who was privy to these events, recounts:

"The lords came with jewels, horses, and promises of wealth, each one more desperate than the last. The Princess, seated beside her father, bore it all with a grace that belied her young age. Y/N, though often absent from such displays, was occasionally seen by her sister’s side, her unseeing lilac eyes lending an ethereal air to the proceedings. Some whispered that her presence was a silent rebuke to the King, a reminder of the family’s losses and the fragility of alliances forged by marriage."

The Shadow of the Younger Princess

Grand Maester Mellos writes:

"Amidst the fanfare surrounding Rhaenyra’s suitors and the birth of Prince Aegon, Y/N remained largely in the background, a deliberate choice by her father. The King, ever protective of his younger daughter, sought to shield her from the court’s scrutiny. Unlike her sister, Y/N was spared the endless parade of lords and their gifts. Instead, she spent her days in the gardens, on the back of her black mare, or in the company of her dragon, Silverwing."

Septa Rhaedis later wrote:

"The younger princess was not overlooked out of neglect, but out of love. The King feared that her blindness, though it inspired awe in some, would make her a target for others. He believed that by keeping her out of the court’s spotlight, he was protecting her. Yet, Y/N, for all her quiet demeanor, was no fool. She knew her father’s intentions, and though she did not voice her objections, her distance from court life created a rift between her and her family that would never fully heal."

Mushroom, ever irreverent, offers his perspective:

"While Rhaenyra was paraded before the realm like a dragon ready to take flight, Y/N was kept hidden, a jewel locked away in a vault. But jewels cannot stay hidden forever. I heard whispers even then—lords asking about the 'blind beauty' and whether the King had plans for her. Viserys, blind in his own way, dismissed such inquiries with a wave of his hand. 'She is too young,' he would say. But the court knew better. He feared what they might see in her, and what ambitions she might awaken."

The Bonds of Sisterhood

Despite the growing tension in the court, Rhaenyra and Y/N’s bond remained strong. Mushroom writes:

"The two sisters were as different as fire and moonlight, yet they shared a closeness that no storm could break. Rhaenyra often brought her suitors’ gifts to Y/N, describing them in vivid detail so her sister might share in the spectacle. Y/N, for her part, offered quiet counsel to Rhaenyra, soothing her elder sister’s frustrations with her gentle words."

Grand Maester Mellos records:

"Though the court focused its attention on Rhaenyra, it was said that she confided more in her younger sister than in anyone else. Y/N, with her serene demeanor, provided a calming presence in the storm of Rhaenyra’s life. The Realm’s Delight, for all her strength, leaned on her blind sister as one might lean on a crutch. Together, they weathered the growing tensions of the Red Keep, their bond a rare light in a darkening world."

Thus, the stage was set for the years to come, as the lines between duty, family, and ambition grew ever more tangled. While Rhaenyra shone brightly before the court, Y/N remained in the shadows, a quiet flame that many would underestimate to their peril.

The Festivities of Prince Aegon’s Eighth Nameday (115 AC)

Grand Maester Mellos writes:

"In the year 115 AC, the Red Keep hosted a grand celebration in honor of Prince Aegon’s eighth nameday. Lords and ladies from across the realm gathered to pay homage to the young prince and revel in the accompanying festivities. Among the notable attendees was Lord Jason Lannister, the proud and ambitious Lord of Casterly Rock, whose presence stirred no small amount of intrigue. It was widely known that Jason had set his sights on the hand of Princess Rhaenyra, and his bold attempts to court her became a point of great amusement—and anxiety—during the celebrations."

Mushroom, in his irreverent style, recounts:

"Lord Jason, as proud as the lions on his banners, approached the Princess of Dragonstone with the subtlety of a hammer striking an anvil. He presented her with a golden spear—a finely crafted thing, no doubt—and boasted of the hunts they might share at Casterly Rock. Rhaenyra, unimpressed, replied that she had no need for a spear, as her dragon could handle any beast that might trouble her. The court erupted in laughter, leaving Lord Jason red-faced and sputtering."

Having been rebuffed by Rhaenyra, Jason sought out King Viserys, hoping to gain the monarch’s favor. Grand Maester Mellos writes:

"Lord Jason approached the King with a proposal as blunt as it was ambitious: a marriage alliance between House Targaryen and House Lannister. King Viserys, still devoted to his plan to wed Rhaenyra to Laenor Velaryon, dismissed the offer with a firm but polite refusal. Jason left the King’s presence visibly frustrated, his composure shaken by the double rejection."

The Collision That Almost Was

It was as Lord Jason retreated from the King’s chambers, nursing his wounded pride, that he first encountered Y/N Targaryen. Grand Maester Mellos records:

"At the request of her father, Princess Y/N, seldom seen at court in recent years, made an unexpected appearance at the festivities. Her arrival, though quiet, caused a ripple of curiosity among the assembled lords and ladies. Clad in silver and black, with her pale hair braided intricately about her head, the blind princess moved through the throng with a serenity that belied the chaos of the celebrations. Ser Lorent Marbrand, her sworn shield, guided her with care."

Mushroom describes the moment with his usual flair:

"Imagine it! Lord Jason, storming through the halls like a lion with a thorn in his paw, nearly barreled into the younger princess. If not for Ser Lorent’s quick hand, the two would have collided. As it was, Jason stopped short, staring at the blind princess as if she were a ghost. I swear by the Seven, his jaw dropped so low I thought he might swallow his own pride."

It was the first time Jason Lannister laid eyes upon Y/N, and the effect was immediate. Tyland Lannister, Jason’s younger twin and a sharp observer of human folly, later recounted the scene with amusement:

"Jason, ever the picture of confidence, found himself utterly out of his element. The blind princess, serene and unflinching, greeted him with a quiet grace that seemed to rob him of speech. For a man so accustomed to admiration, it was a humbling moment. I, for one, enjoyed every second of it."

Jason, regaining his composure, offered a hasty apology, which Y/N accepted with her usual gentleness. Grand Maester Mellos writes:

"The encounter was brief, but those who witnessed it spoke of how the Lord of Casterly Rock seemed momentarily unmoored, as if the blind princess had seen through him in a way that others could not. Whether by fate or chance, it was a meeting that would linger in Jason’s mind for years to come."

Reflections and Whispers

The court, ever quick to seize upon any moment of intrigue, buzzed with speculation about Jason’s reaction to Y/N. Mushroom, always eager to stir the pot, writes:

"Some said the Lord of Casterly Rock left the festivities with more than his pride bruised. Others whispered that he had found a new prize to pursue, though how one courts a woman who cannot see their fine clothes or lavish gifts, I cannot say. Still, I’d wager Jason would find a way—lions are nothing if not persistent."

Tyland, reflecting on the event years later, remarked:

"That day marked the first time I saw my brother truly at a loss for words. Princess Y/N Targaryen, with her quiet grace and unseeing eyes, had a way of disarming even the most self-assured of men. Jason was no exception. It was as if the gods themselves had decided to humble him, and they chose her to do it."

Though the moment passed quickly, it became a tale retold in the halls of Casterly Rock and King’s Landing alike, a small but significant thread in the tapestry of Y/N’s life and the ever-turning wheel of power in the realm.

[wodania]

round three of my six fanarts!!! thank you so much to everyone who participated and funded by elden ring addiction. keep an eye out for round four!

[novembermorgon]

tybolt lannister you were mentioned once in passing in dunk and egg and then never again. but i love you. we exist.