#highgarden (from 'a song of ice and fire')

[venustapolis]

Altojardín (de 'Canción de hielo y fuego') (Ted Nasmith)

[asongoficeandfiresource]

Hellholt, a strong castle on the river Brimstone, was thought to be well situated to deal with any revolts. But the river was sulfurous, and the fish taken from it made the Highgardeners sick.  -- Fire and Blood

A Song of Ice and Fire Calendar 2025 || Hellholt by Eddie Mendoza

[bee-a-garbage-shipper]

Game Of Thrones Fanfiction List

Bequeathed from Pale Estates By Author376

In a Westeros where Soulmates are bound and Marked by the Gods to bind Houses together and pay blood debts, Lyarra Snow and Oberyn Martell are about to get a shock…

Winter Thorns of Highgarden (FF | AO3) By Madrigal_in_training (FF | AO3)

The knight's supposed to save the princess from the dragon but here, the princess is a dragon, the knight is a bookish lord, and the greatest threat is either the old lady in the blue wimple or the honorable warden with the Ice sword. Because no one thought a second Stark girl would be kidnapped for marriage or that the sensible Willas Tyrell would be the one to kidnap her.

Incandescent (FF | AO3) By Madrigal_in_training (FF | AO3)

In a moment of grief-stricken madness, Catelyn Stark attempts to murder her husband’s bastard. Yet her entire worldview shatters when Lyarra Snow refuses to burn. Fem!Jon, Lyarra x Robb

A Golden Age By margotdavid (FF | AO3)

At her father's request, Alysanne calls the banners and marches south. For what reason, she is not sure, but as she meets the lions on the field, Alysanne finds that she was more fire in her blood than she though. Tywin Lannister is seeing his house crumble to the ground because of his daughter. Worse, a wild girl just defeated his army. But when the face of Rhaella Targaryen appears in front of him, he makes a gamble that might just save his legacy.

A Song of Vengeance (AWOIAF | GOT | AO3) By IWantColouredRain (FF | AO3)

15 years ago, the Targaryens were forced into exile by the rebel alliance of the West-Stormlands-Vale-Riverlands... and Dorne. To ensure the loyalty of the hostile North, Aly Stark was wed to King Robert's closest friend, Oberyn Martell. Now, after 15 years, the wolves and dragons' pieces are in place, and they will have revenge. (Role Reversal.) Martell Centric. Hiatus

A Song of Marked Souls (AWOIAF | GOT | AO3) By IWantColouredRain (FF | AO3)

In a world where magic remains strong and the Old Gods keep active in the lives of their followers, Alyssa Snow and Oberyn Martell bear Marks that, according to the ancient gods that lurk in the weir woods, destine them for greatness. (Fem!Jon Snow. Not for Tully fans. OOC!Characters)

Princess of Wolves, Prince of Snakes (AWOIAF | GOT | AO3) By IWantColouredRain (FF | AO3)

After the Lions' coup, Aegon VI flees with his wife, mother, uncle and cousins in search of allies and safety in order to regain his throne. But there is only one place to go: The Winterlands, the only part of Westeros to remain independent of the Iron Throne. Hiatus until summer

The Star of the North (AWOIAF | GOT | AO3) By IWantColouredRain (FF | AO3)

Just when Lady Alarra Stark feels she has no escape other than death, she finds another option in the form of a Dornish viper and his elegant paramour.

There and Back Again (FF | AO3) By Naerys Blackfyre (FF | AO3)

After the events of season 8, Jon of House Targaryen is sent back in time to fulfill his destiny as the prince that was promised. Jonsa, Gendyra, RhaeLya, Anti-Dany, Dany fans beware. AU! NOT ANYTHING LIKE CANON!

Father of Dragons (FF | AO3) By Naerys Blackfyre (FF | AO3)

"How did you know of this chest Sam?" Jon's eyebrows were drawn together in a frown. "Hummm…oh uh well Maester Aemon told me to give this chest to you when he died. He said that you would most likely be in need of them." Sam answers with a shrug. Jon stared at Sam with a frown painted on this face. What could Maester Aemon possibly wanted to give him? Jonsa, Gendrya, Braime, RhaeEliaLya, Anti-Dany

Lost Girl By prussianblues

She leaves the Seven Kingdoms a bastard and returns a queen.

Or, Joanna Snow is in King’s Landing when Cersei seizes the city, and Varys sneaks her out to meet her brother. A meddling Magister later, she meets Daenerys as well.

A story told in drabbles.

To Go Forward By togo

Jon Snow wakes up in Winterfell, two years in the past. He struggles with his knowledge of the upcoming wars, the mystery of his mother's forgotten letters, and the prophecy of the Prince That Was Promised. How much time does he have until the Others invade Westeros?

A Second Time Around By ratclanqueen

"I know this is hard for you to understand but we have already lived this life once. The Gods are blessing us. I saw this before the Night King broke through the Wall. We have been reborn into our bodies before Jon Arryn's murder with our memories and knowledge of what could possibly lie ahead," Bran told them.

When all of House Stark wake up one morning with their deaths being their clearest memories, the wheel begins to turn. The game has a new player in the form of Sansa Stark, the Red Wolf of Winterfell and the Queen in the North before her death, who is determined to see her family grow old and happy in Winterfell and the Iron Throne melted to a puddle of metal at her feet.

Dragons of Red, Dragons of White By NightDrake

After the Duel on the Trident, there are ramifications that none could foresee. In the world built afterwards, dragons once again rule and roam Westeros, among them the son of a northern beauty and the king. Prince Jon and his kin, Stark and Targaryen alike, face new challenges from both without and within. Whatever the future holds, the Seven Kingdoms will learn that, whether in a coat of red or a coat of white, a dragon still has claws.

Manners and Misunderstandings By mostlyclouds

The Stark sisters have travelled all the way to London to begin their first season, leaving behind the familiar world of Winterfell Hall and a disappointed Jon Stark- with whom the eldest Miss Stark has been convinced to break off a connection. In London they join family friends the Baratheons and the fashionable young Tyrells in a world of romance and balls.

Meanwhile Gendry Waters has been plucked out of the life he knew to become his ailing father's heir, Robb, Theon and later Rickon embark on military careers in the Napoleonic wars, and their aunt Lysa makes a foolish marriage.

When tragedy hits the family, they must come together, learning how manners may hide monsters and the best people are often those misunderstood by society.

The Conquest By DolorousEdditor

An AU of grand scale inspired by a prompt by Oblongata.

Three hundred years after Aegon the Conqueror built a new empire on the ashes of the Valyrian Freehold the known world is a place of war. The Targaryen Empire is pressed by enemies, the Seven Kingdoms war amongst themselves and forces contrive to pull them all apart.

Amidst all this are a prince and princess who fear themselves ruined by the horrors they've endured. Together they might be the hope their people are looking for. More importantly, they might be the dream both abandoned long ago.

A Caged Songbird By bikadoo

“I will be a silent, and dutiful wife,” Sansa spits. “I will be their pretty little songbird, and wear their ugly crown, and sit on their painful throne. I shall give him a babe, and my love, and I will wait until he thinks that he has won. And then I shall take his life."

Shae goes still. "You ... you plan to kill the King?"

"No," Sansa says. "I plan to kill my husband."

A Knight's Watch By DolorousEdditor

Jon Snow is forbidden to take the black by his father. Instead he sent to squire for a famous knight, beginning a long arduous journey that causes him to cross paths with characters he never would have. Along the way he learns truths long hidden and discovers love in the most unlikely of places.

All of this in the shadow of the War of Five Kings and the coming of the Others.

[misguidedasgardian]

The White Dragon (33)

33. Kings of nothing

MASTERLIST

Summary: A new and definitive alliance

Pairings: main Harwin Strong x Fem!Targaryen reader

Warnings: cursing, medieval and A song of ice and Fire AU customs, injury, burns, dragon fire, death, violence, armies, death, war and all that comes with it. Might miss some warnings but you know what this is about :) 

+18, MINORS DNI

Wordcount: 3.1

Notes:  I have to admit, I jumped the gun and published the scene where they got married before time! so anyways… I had to crack how to unite evrything I didn't write.... heehehe....here it is! 

Being back home was a thing of beauty.

Even in the middle of a war

After the battle of the God’s Eye you came back to the White Hall, for a very short time, you couldn’t rest, not now. So after everyone was settled, you took Aemond, and as you distracted Rhaenyra, talked to her about the state of the war and battles your family had won, Aemond sneaked into the Dragon Mount, and took Silverwing, flying the dragoness away, you guessed, that towards wherever Aemma was

Rhaenyra had agreed to the truce you had given her, that the priority was taking the Hightowers out of the throne, what will happen after? That is something to worry about another day. Amongst Targaryens, not Hightowers 

So now, you went back home, where, for a few days, you were going to be able to rest

At least for a couple of days.

Rhaegar was on the way, you were waiting for word from Aemma and Aemond from Highgarden, and your youngest, Veagor and Saera were safe in Winterfell, you just got a letter from them. 

You were going to gather the entirety of your family in Harrenhal, and then you will decide how to proceed 

As you gaze in the map, the small figurines representing dragons and your children, you move them around on the board. 

Aemma and Aemond in Highgarden

Rhaegar coming home from the River road, taking the King’s road, right now he should be near the crossroads Inn, you guessed

Maekar here, with Helaena and the children

Your children in Winterfell

Rhaenyra, Daemon, and their children in Dragonstone

Rhaenys fighting in the Narrow sea with Corlys

The war had crashed against Rhaenyra and her family, finally, not gladly though, but it was time.

Jacaerys, the heir apparent to the throne was almost killed 

He let his dragon Vermax get killed with arrows, nets and hooks, like a common kraken, and he survived thanks to the grace of the Gods

When Rhaenyra realizes Silverwing was lost from the mount, she was going to come for you, a seasoned dragon that his son could have claimed. Anyways, it was too late now, Silverwing had a new rider. 

Where was Daemon though? everything he did was ever so shady, he was always slithering about, so mysterious, never to be found when needed. He was truly going to kill you when he found out your allegiances with a former Green

Who was he to say anything anyways? He had done something worse

Something unforgivable

You didn’t trust your uncle anymore

And you didn’t trust your sister, perhaps you didn’t since you married Harwin

Who was going to sit the bloody Iron Throne?

Harwin hugged you from your back, making you jump in surprise.

You were so jumpy since you escaped the Stranger

“What are you thinking about, wife?”, he asked

“Our dragonlings”, you whispered, “they are safe, but so far from us, in a blink of an eye something could go wrong”, you whined

“They will be here soon”, he said, “you read the raven, Aemma destroyed the Lannister fleet”, he said with pride in his voice, “Aemond reached her, Rhaegar is resting in the Crossroads inn just half a day from here… Maekar is with us, and our babies are in the safest palace, in the earth of a Kingdom devoted to you, we will have them in our arms soon”, he said with certainty, and you nodded

“You are right”, and you turned to meet him, still between his arms, “what about Crestan?”

“He is gone, nobody knows where he is”, he said, “He went to get his ship back”, he answered with a smile, “and don’t ask me where that is”

“Because of him, our daughter is free, Steffon also, and our future grandchildren are alive”, you explained

“Grandchildren?”, he asked, amused

“If you think we stand a chance of ever separating Maekar from Helaena you are delusional”, you giggled, “he will make those children his own”

“As he should”, Harwin said with a glint in his eyes and a proud smile, “sadly we have many things, and we are rich in so many aspects, but not in gold”, he laughed, “we will find a way to compensate him”

“We will”, you promised 

“And Steffon, have you had word from him?”, he asked, and you shook your head

“Not yet, and I’m worried”

“The Tyrells are loyal”, he said, “they will protect him”

“I hope so”, you whispered, “the eternity of the treasury depends on it”, you muttered

“the other part is in Casterly rock, I’m certain”

“And no idea how we are going to take it back, not even dragons could conquer it”, you whispered, “Ravens are ever slow, how I wish I could be at more places than one at a time”, you whined

“That’s why we have children”, he whispered in your ear, and you laughed, “to send them instead”

“Fucker”, you cursed, “you know this wasn’t my doing”

“I know”, he whispered, “I know, if you had it your way, we would be all safe here”, you nodded

“The hardest part is not even here yet”, you said, “we still have to take the city”

“We will get through it”, he said firmly, “or our children will… whatever it takes”

“Our children will make it”, you promise, “whatever it takes, that is our priority”

Alicent’s lip wobbled slightly as she watched the cursed throne.

 It was an evil thing to even look at

Because of it, her entire family, her children, were all gone

Aegon was missing, crippled and mad

Helaena had escaped with her children. Alicent as well as Aemond thought her daughter had died brutally, deceived by her own father. Who she had not spoken to since she found out the truth. And that leads her to…

Aemond

Her son, her favorite, she wasn’t afraid to admit it, she had asked the Gods for forgiveness many times already, for the awful sin of choosing one of your children in front of the others.

He had received a letter from his son, from the Whitehall, explaining everything, how Helaena was alive and well, with her children, how her father lied to her, and manipulated them, how he was on his way to Aemma to stop the royal army. 

The letter, luckily, wasn’t intercepted by anyone else, only for her eyes to see, and the information that was in it, how they were going to stop the army, she didn’t share with anyone else. 

In a sick and twisted space of her mind, or perhaps, the sanest and better one, she wanted the army of her house to fail, to be burned, leaving nothing after them. She wanted the princess to storm the capital, take the city, she would kneel in front of her then, beg for her forgiveness, offer herself as prisoner, only to make sure her children were going to be safe, Aemond, Helaena, and the small children.

She didn’t want the throne, she didn’t want her own children to sit on it

It was cursed

“You are out of your rooms”, she flinched when she heard her father’s voice behind her

She had been self-confined to her rooms

Willingly

She didn’t want to see anyone, not talk to his treacherous father, and he had placed a guard at her door, with Criston Cole dead, she had no loyal guard to guard her and protect her. 

She didn’t answer, as a bitter tear fell down her cheek

“Losing Aemond was unfortunate”, of course the only information Otto received was that they had failed, the royal army and the Baratheons had been destroyed, and she couldn’t understand how her father still wore that sick smile on his face, “but at least he is alive, our army is on their way, they will be here soon, with the Tyrells”, she knew that tone, “the triarchy armada is victorious against the blacks, soon we will control the Narrow sea, the people is for us, they love their King, and their Queen”

Him speaking like that, so enthusiastic and blind, made Alicent realize something very important

Larys wasn’t feeding him information, or true information, anymore

“Both are gone”, she said, and the crack in her voice astonished even her, “Aegon is missing, and Helaena is dead, right?”, she said, finally turning to him

And Otto flinched when he saw her

Her hair hadn't been brushed in a week, the same she didn’t even dare to take a bath, she was weaning an old dark red gown, not the green she used to wear, and the seven point necklace that always adorned her neck, was gone.

“The people don't need to know that”, he said, “we still have Daeron, when he is back, we will marry him to my niece, she is a nice girl, he could…”

“No children of mine will sit that chair”, she sentenced

“You are shaken, by grief, by sadness, and I don’t blame you”, he said, taking a step towards her, but he stopped when she took a step back, “but Aemond will never bend the knee to Rhaenyra, he will come back to us”

Then she smiled

Alicent drew a sick smile, she blinked to keep her tears at bay

“You are sick”, she muttered, “because of you, my children are as good as dead!”, she accused, “because of you, the house of the dragon is estranged, is broken!”, she accused, if she had something in her hands, she would have thrown it at him. “Aegon didn’t want to be King, not really, Aemond didn’t want to support him!”, she cried, “because of you! we are all dead”

“I made you Queen of the seven Kingdoms!”, he defended, “I made you the most powerful woman in the world!”

“You made Queen of nothing”, she said bitterly, “when the Blacks and the Reds come, I will open the gates of this castle, and I will let them take you, how you deserve, and you will face their fire and blood”

Aemond smiled softly, thinking about if he should die right this moment, he would meet the Stranger a happy man.

He held his beautiful Aemma in his arms, his hand caressed mindlessly the side of her hace and her hair who was leaning against his chest, his other hand rested on her tull covered thighs, as smelt the delicious smell of her hair, roses, jasmin, and smoke and fire.  

She purred, closing her eyes and enjoying his caresses, and she curled deeper into his chest. Her hand caressing softly his linen covered chest

They basked in each other's presence, all around them a feast for the senses, eachother, their embrace, their warmth, the smell of the garden, the gentle noise of the river that ran nearby, and the chirping of birds all around.

It was paradise in the middle of the war.

When he had her in his arms, he couldn’t wait any longer, he had to make her his, before something else happens, before somebody or something takes her from him, another battle, another war, another assassination attempt, life was short and fleeting, and he couldn’t stand another day.

He had asked her to marry him, and she said yes without a second thought

“Husband”, she calls, with a soft smile tugging at her lips

“Mmm Wife…”, the rumble in his chest as he rumbled made her smile even more widely, “are you sure this is what you wanted?”, he asked

“It’s a little too late to ask”, she whispered with a gentle giggle 

“I wanted to make sure nothing, nobody could take you away from me ever again”, he said gently against the top of her head

“Nobody ever could”, she whispered

She had asked her mother once what she felt when she was in love, she never got a real answer, but she did realize it herself. When she looked at Aemond, her heart didn’t jump out of her chest, with Aemond she didn’t feel butterflies in her belly and her hands weren't sweaty.

She felt calm, she felt at ease, she felt…safe

She felt a warmth in her chest, she felt like with him by her side, everything was going to be alright, nothing could harm them, nothing could get in the way of them and their family.

That was love

The confidence, the trust. So she let out a purr against his chest, as she tried to melt into his embrace…. although, as she smelt his scent, the bittersweet smell of dragon, leathers and a natural musk, she did feel butterflies in her belly… 

“You are the love of my life”, Aemond whispered, his long fingers playing and caressing her side of her face, her ear, her hair, her soft skin

“I love you”, she confessed with a smile, her hand sneaking inside his shirt, caressing his chest until she could feel his heart beating underneath her palm

“It beats only thanks to your love”, he confessed, “when my grandfather made me believe you died, I died too”

“I couldn’t even begin to understand why would he do such a thing”, you whispered, “why would he made you believe that awful truth”

“It of no consequence”, he said, “you are alive and that is all that matters”, she nodded against his chest, and he dropped a kiss on the side of her head, “My Aemma”

“My Aemond”

They both knew this was a temporary happiness, they both knew what was happening and that they needed to go back to the real war, to the middle of the war, but right now, right this second, there was only them, together.

Well, not alone

“I’m sorry to interrupt”, said Daeron, walking inside the private garden they were hiding in, “but there are things we need to discuss” 

Daeron had come as a surprise, Aemond managed to send a raven from Highgarden before he searched for Aemma. His brother, well, they were practically strangers, they had never met as young adults, but blood is thicker than water, and the blood of the dragon was even thicker

Aemond sit Aemma gently on the stone bench they were cuddling at, and he walked towards his brother

“Congratulations brother”, he said with a solemn smile, “she is beautiful”

“And deadly”, he said, the gaze he had in his eye made Daeron tremble, “she sank the entirety of the Lannister fleet, she left half of their army useless, marching home, not a single person killed”, he said firmly, “because she understands the necessity of leaving those fuckers alive, however, how I am going to convince her to not burn the Hightower Army on it’s entirety?”, he asked then

“She is your wife”, he said simply, “our mother is a Hightower”

“Our mother isn’t the one behind those commands, brother”, he said, “Otto Hightower is”

“The green army is coming, only a short days from here”, he said firmly, Aemond looked at him

“What do you want to do, brother?”, Aemond asked then

“They raised me”, he answered, like it was obvious, making it clear where his loyalties lay

“They are traitors”, he said then, and then he saw something in his younger brother’s eyes, “You are distracting us aren’t you?”, Asked Aemond, looking at him, Daeron didn’t answer, looking away from him, “The Green Army is on his way to King’s landing”, then the purple eyes met his

“Are you going to kill your own family?”, he asked back, “are you going to meet the army and burn them all?

“Otto Hightower made me believe my wife, sister and nephews were dead, and with what purpose? for me to lose my mind and kill the remains of the family, the true family I had left”, Daeron only looked at him wide-eyed, “I’m going to kill that fucker myself as soon as I can get my hands on him”, and then he looked away, “his ill advice turn the house of the dragon against itself, I don;t think is fair thousand of men from Old Town have to die because of him”

“You want to make them surrender”, he said then, and Aemond met their eyes

“If we take our grandfather from the throne, and we make our mother see reason, there is no need for them to fight”, he said then

“I can’t turn my back on those orders brother”, he said firmly, looking right at him, “Our uncle, the Lord of Old Town raised me”, he said, “I have never received not even a letter in my name day from you people!”, he accused, “I came here as a courtesy, because we are blood, but I can’t turn my back on the Greens”, Aemond shook his head

“Don’t do this brother”, he whispered

“i have to”, he said

“We will be your family”, he tried, “Helaena, Aemma, me, our nephews”, he tried, “come with us and see, we are a join family, come with back to Harrenhal, surrender”, but just by looking at his brother, Aemond knew

Daeron shook his head

He was a King

He was burnt

He was dishonored

He was left with no heirs

He was king of nothing

And then he looked up the hall of the castle of Runestone

Those small lords of the Vale, in the heart of the black conclave, they were loyal to him

King of the seven Kingdoms

“Without the support of her sister, the blacks had retrieved their forces”, said a lord that Aegon didn’t have the mind to remember the name of

“They have lost half their fleet!”, said another, “they say the black Queen will send her youngest children to Pentos, across the Narrow sea, this is the moment to strike!”

Multiple “Yeah!”, could be heard throughout the room, and Aegon smiled wickedly

The sisters were split, the majority of their forces supported you, so Rhaenyra only held a few lords and ships, this was the moment he needed to strike, this was it.

He found friends amongst those scorned by Daemon Targaryen, by him murdering his first wife, lady Rhea, here, so dangerously close, but far from the war, from here, he felt he could see everything

“This is the time to strike”, he sentenced

Daemon had taken his children, so he was going to do the same. 

More notes: like they say... an eye for an eye leaves the whole world blind... imagine "a son for a son" that will do ... AAAHHHH

The war is not over yet... let's see. Sorry it was shorter than usual... but I think this says a lot either way! hehe We'll have chapters with more action in the future, with a couple more battles... Either way... I think... the next chapter will contain smut and several couples meeting! hahah mmmm delicious

Taglist! @tearsarcane @integra1127 @aestmilky @thanyatargaryen @tythaitie @lostinworldofdarkness @voodoogoul @wildmindedbeauty32 @lil-pudd @alicattx @electric-bloo @astaaan-lol @stargaryenx @kaitieskidmore1 @bregarc @lilpnd @jcpenneyyy @janelei @fexibau @ladyoakenshield157 @danielle-leah1997 @lady-ragnvindr @cecilyjmorgenstern @omgsuperstarg @bugheadskid @batprincess1013 @her-fandom-sanctum @holb32 @blue1006 @stargaryenx @grippleback-galaxy @mikariell95 @genesisliveson @mendes-bae @caspianobsessed@notmundane3000 @kamisunshine @just-someone11 @ietss

[ktwrites]

70 AC- Harrenhal

“Mother, I want to come with you.” 

It was a simple request, not even a question, from Alysanne’s ten-year-old daughter Alyssa a mere two days before she was set to leave for her annual journey to White Harbor to hold her women’s court. Two years ago- to celebrate the twentieth year of Jaehaerys’s reign- she had started conducting them once a year in three different areas of the kingdom. A sennight a piece spent in Highgarden, Lannisport, and White Harbor every year ensured the voices of the women of the realm were heard. 

This year, however, had been different. With the wedding of her eldest son Aemon to her half-sister Jocelyn set to take place just before year's end, and with another child due just after the new year Alysanne knew she would need to adjust her plans. Rather than hold her women’s court at White Harbor in the year after the birth of her tenth child due to the distance she would need to traverse, the queen decided to travel to the seat of House Manderly for the second time in just six months. 

 “She asked to come?” Rhaena asked her younger sister as she handed Alysanne a glass of wine. 

Due to the distance between King’s Landing and White Harbor, Alysanne chose to break up the trip into two days of travel, sending the rest of her retinue ahead long before she and Alyssa took flight on Silverwing. Harrenhal may not quite have been the halfway point between the two locales, but she could not pass up the chance to visit her older sister. 

“She did,” Alysanne confirmed.”I think she’s feeling a bit…left out amongst the wedding preparations for Aemon and Jocelyn and now she has me all to herself for a time.” 

“And will Lord Stark be once again escorting the retinue from Winterfell as he did six months ago?” 

Ever the elder sister, Rhaena Targaryen cut straight to the heart of the matter. It was true that Alaric had made a point to escort the women from Winterfell to White Harbor. It was a matter of safety, he had explained to Lord Manderly, and since the untimely deaths of both of his sons the Warden of the North felt compelled to take on the task himself. 

Of course he could not tell his bannerman that he would not pass up the chance to see his queen. Of course he could not tell him that the letters they exchanged over the years simply did not suffice. Of course no one could know that Alaric kept the queen’s company each night during their stay at White Harbor. No one had been privy to any of this save for Alaric, Alysanne, and the Scarlet Shadow, Jonquil Darke. 

But there were some secrets that could not be kept from the likes of an observant older sister. 

“He will,” Alysanne nodded slowly. 

“And remind me again when your babe is due?” 

“Three turns of the moon…or so.” 

“Or so?” 

“Don’t look at me like that, Rhaena.” 

[trogthefrog]

Game of Thrones, Diplomacy (board game) Feudalism Variant

Summary: This is an Idea for a Diplomacy board game variant with teams of semi independent vassals "controlled" by (but more like working with) their overlords. This is based on a song of ice and fire books and map and introducing feudal mechanics.

An approximation of Starting Locations:

Source: https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/TabletopGame/Diplomacy

Here's a brief summary of Diplomacy's rules and some quick resources to understand the game if you don't know the game but still care to read this post:

https://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Diplomacy/Rules

https://www.youtube.com/watch

https://www.youtube.com/watch

I had an idea for a variant of Diplomacy (though I confess to barely having played, and mostly consumed Diplomacy content) based on the feudal system of GRRM’s A Song of Ice and Fire.

The variant would use a map of Westeros (and possibly a few Free cities, Braavos, Tyrosh, Pentos, even a Triarchy player if doing a Dance of Dragons game). The variant would have to have key changes from actual Diplomacy rules. Because the foundational idea for this variant is that each team's three starting supply centres are controlled by independent Lords/Ladies.

So for example The North is ruled by House Stark in Winterfell (supply center) but House Bolton and Manderly are on Stark's team and control one supply center each (the Dreadfort & White Harbour respectively). This allows for similar complex feudal dynamics like those that appear in ASOIAF. Ex. Vassals could betray their Overlords and join another team, ignore their overlord, destroy other vassals in feuds, threaten their Overlord if they are stronger and become overlord themselves by vassalizing the previous overlord or destroying them.

I can imagine win conditions being 1. Overlord Victory: complete domination of majority of supply centers (unlikely), 2. Great Council Victory: Winning the fealty of enough players that supply points become a majority (Team win), 3. Age of Heroes Victory: splitting Westeros into independent Kingdoms by agreement so no one has a supply center majority (Multi Team Draw).

Available Houses (Overlords in bold)

The North

Stark of Winterfell

Bolton of the Dreadfort

Manderly of White Harbour

Westerlands

Lannister of Casterly Rock

Marbrand of Ashmark

Brax of Hornvale

Riverlands

Tully of Riverrun

Bracken or Blackwood

Frey of the Twins

Vale

Arryn of the Eyrie

Royce of Runestone

Corbray of Heart's Home

Crown/Stormlands

Targaryen of King's Landing/Dragonstone

Velaryon of Driftmark

Baratheon of Storm's End

Reach

Tyrell of Highgarden

Hightower of the Hightower

Rowan? Peake? Tarly?

Dorne

Martell of Sunspear

Yronwood of Yronwood

Dayne of Starfall

Iron Islands

Greyjoy of Pyke

Harlaw of Ten Towers

Goodbrother of Hammerhorn

The Crownlands and Stormlands are combined because Targaryen, Baratheon, and Velaryon are all Valyrian houses; + the Baratheon Stormlands act more of a source of soldiers than an independent region (in my opinion). This setup limits the # of players while also allowing for different eras of play. (Pre Robert's Rebellion it's Targaryen, Baratheon, and Velaryon and post Robert's rebellion it's Baratheon of Storm's End, Baratheon of King's Landing and Baratheon of Dragonstone (hail to the true King Stannis!)). You can still do Baratheon civil war though! Switching around Loyalties, the Reach becomes loyal to Storm's End, The Westerlands loyal to King's Landing and Dragonstone all alone or with some other loyalty.

Houses can be changed for different eras:

Pre conquest: Teagues instead of Tully's or house Hoare of the Iron islands controls the riverlands and house Gardener replaces Tyrell.

If before the Rains of Castamere House Reyne replaces Brax or Marbrand.

Geography/Gameboard (Reference Map Below)

Regions:

The South riverlands & northern reach (middle of the south) would be at the start a big uncontrolled area. (especially Harrenhal but also Maidenpool, Duskendale, Bitterbridge.)

The River Fever would act as a canal & connect the Bite and Saltspear

Mountains of the Moon are impassable terrain except for the high road. (still vulnerable to naval invasion)

ADWD Westeros Map (North left) (South right) Source: https://atlasoficeandfireblog.wordpress.com/2016/02/23/the-maps-of-a-song-of-ice-and-fire-a-dance-with-dragons/

List of possible supply centres/regions

Starting centres:

King’s Landing

Dragonstone/Driftmark

Storm’s End

Highgarden

Oldtown

Starpike

Sunspear

Starfall

Yronwood

Lannisport/Casterly Rock

Golden Tooth/Castamere

Pyke

Harlaw

Riverrun

The Twins

Raventree Hall/Stone Hedge

The Eyrie/Gates of the Moon/Bloody gate

Heart’s Home

Runestone/Gulltown

Winterfell

White Harbour

The Dreadfort

Open centers or spaces: Karhold

Barrowtown/Torrhen’s Square

Harrenhal

Maidenpool

Duskendale

Nightsong

Bitterbridge

Goldengrove

Griffin’s Roost

Stonehelm

Seagard

The Arbor

Braavos

Pentos

Lys

Myr

Tyrosh

Some Atheistic suggestions for flaunting power (If you don't care skip to Other Mechanics section).

Power in Westeros isn't that of a nation state but a Family so to adopt those same trappings of power instead of playing a country you are playing a house/character of that house.

Titles: a player can take or make up different titles based on what they are doing or their goals, a fun way to try and bribe someone might be offer a fancy title (typically with lands or responsabilites):

Independent Kingdom title examples

King/Queen in the North

Iron King/Queen (Iron Islands)

Prince/Princess of Dorne

Queen/King of the Rock (Westerlands) (If not in control of Casterly rock take the title King/Queen of the Westerlands)

Queen/King of the Rivers (Riverlands)

King/Queen of the Vale

King/Queen of the Mander

Storm Queen/King

Great Houses Vassal Titles examples

Lord/Lady Paramount of (insert Region)

Warden of (west, north, east, south)

Smaller vassals making a bid for independence might use their royal titles

King/Queen of the Torrentine (Dayne)

Red Queen/King (Bolton)

If making a bid for the Iron Throne and rule of all Westeros you could offer someone the title of Hand or a position on your small council.

For other title ideas see the ASOIAF wiki:

https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Category:Titles

https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Kingship#Known_Titles

If a "character" doesn't fall into the gender binary of those titles there are many gender non conforming characters in ASOIAF so following from their example a player can: Make a new title, say their character defies gender norms while using the same title ex. Loreon V Lannister "Queen Lorea", use both etc. It's the player's prerogative.

House Trappings

Messages are sealed or marked with the sigil of that house.

Players' are given their house names. Ex Percy who is playing house becomes Lady/Lord Percy Other players can use this in negotiation. Being respectful by adding the titles or being rude by omitting them. To even go further an enemy can refer to a player solely as Bracken (a house name) or an insult like Wolf Idiot to a Stark player.), A player can also address someone by their old title to offend them if they've taken a new shiner title or to gain favour if the other player's lost that title.

I can also imagine renaming some stuff

Treaties = Oaths

Supply Centers = Castles

Messages = Ravens

When an Overlord and vassals talk together = War Council

When Multiple Overlords & Vassals talk = Great Council

Loyalty = Fealty

TIME KEEPING

I would assume the two most desirable starting dates for ASOIAF diplomacy are 298 AC right before the events of A Game of Thrones and 282 AC before Robert's Rebellion. Other starting dates could be Aegon's Conquest in 0 AC or the Dance of the Dragons in 129 AC.

In regular Diplomacy a year is split into two seasons. This does not work because seasons in ASOIAF are longer than years. Therefore turns needs must be divided using different terminology, I would propose Six Moons (months in asoiaf), or early (insert year) and late (insert year).

OTHER POSSIBLE MECHANICS

ASOIAF is a story that examines numerous themes and so maybe certain mechanics can be introduced to reflect this diversity of actions.

Supply points can be gifted to vassals. Promising supply points can be a way to flip an enemy vassal.

Independent armies and rogue lords/ladies (Beric Dondarrion). If someone's last castle is taken but their army remains intact, instead of eliminating that player they could be allowed to fight on, through original diplomacy rules by taking a new supply center, or by new rules convincing another lord or their overlord to give them a new castle before their elimination (Ex. offering to stab their overlord in the back for being given a supply center by an enemy lord) or by respecing how to kill armies so they can exist independent of supply centers that way there could be rogue lords/ladies like Beric Dondarrion or (SPOILER) like how Robb Stark is able to fight even when Winterfell was lost (possibly not the best example since Robb had other castles at this point).

Independent armies might allow for a Golden Company or Blackfyre player. (or Maybe they just control Tyrosh).

Marriages. A strong part of ASOIAF is marriage. Maybe two players can unite their cause through marrying each other forming a marriage pact. This could combine their personal armies (meaning they are now permanent teammates) Or if that's too limiting on each other maybe they both get full vision of each other's messages (after all, living in the same castle).

Valyrian steel swords. I guess a player could claim to have one of these

Gay Alliances- Maybe only the Dornish can have official same-sex marriage style alliances (I know there isn't gay marriage in the books) while the rest of Westeros limits its alliance options. Maybe everyone can do whatever when it comes to marriages... if you really wanna be true to the series maybe you're marrying off random cousins who read the other player's mail.

Sexism- I don't think is a great board game mechanic or thing but its a theme of the story.

Magic- I think this might add unnecessary complications. Ice zombies or red witches are cool but I have no idea how they'd be implemented. (Maybe a 3 vs 1 style game where one player commands undead ice hordes and a team of others command separate armies (that don't respawn like in War of the Ring LOTR strategy board game)).

Weather. In ASOIAF weather is wonky and affected lots in medieval society and the books. Or maybe it can be shuffled aside in the same way Diplomacy shuffles aside weather. After all Diplomacy is focused on scheming relationships not so much army management.

Siege warfare (castles), GRRM tends to downplay siege warfare so it's something that could be waved away like in Diplomacy. Maybe Chevauchée just works really well.

Creatures (Dragons, Krakens, Direwolves) Air and sea and land monsters. Maybe Dragons can give attacking support anywhere on the map (no adjacency) or smth.

Assassination... It's a thing in ASOIAF but I don't see how it could influence a game where individual players can't be killed unless their supply centers are destroyed and armies annihilated.

Money? Probably not since once again Diplomacy is focused on scheming relationships not so much financial management.

Religion. Maybe an effect on who you can marry, maybe not. Likely irrelevant other than for aesthetics.

I have also cut out the Night's watch and the Wildlings. I'm not sure how to add them and I don't think they should be added, what would they even do? The Night's Watch is supposed to take no part in Westerosi wars (I know they could do otherwise but still) and the Wildlings are mostly always decentralized. It would add too many more players I think.

Other than all that I'd Imagine Army units become re-skinned into Knights and Fleets stay as Fleets or Ships.

Solutions I can think of:

To solve the issue of players dying too quickly early on by losing their castle (If indeed that is how elimination will work) supply centers can be augmented so each player can easily get one at the beginning of the game.

In classic diplomacy there are 7 players, 34 Supply centers, 56 land tiles and 19 sea tiles. In this variant I know there will be 8 teams, but other than that have no idea. Maybe if I matched the original ratios of supply centers it would be around 24 starting controlled, out of 37 supply centers (this is assuming that only 8 regions of Westeros with three supply centers are players not including Free cities).

The whole point of this big post is that I have a small idea. But I am not a board game freak or good mathematician. My question then is: does this idea hold any water mechanically? Instead of expanding the map like in other mass diplomacy games it splits up the map. It would require a lot of players (22-24ish) I know there are some big diplomacy variants but this player requirement would make this variant tough to test. From what I have found this idea is similar to chaos diplomacy or in regards to having single control point nations like with minor powers in the Diplomacy Versailles variant. I know there are ASOIAF diplomacy variants but I wanted something that reflects the feudal nature of Westeros. I'd like people's feedback who know better about Game Design or Game theory on how to design something like this but better thought out in terms of maths and adjacency of regions with map design. Or you can tell me you like it or hate it. I'd love some thoughts.

I also posted this here on reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/diplomacy/comments/195zhm2/diplomacy_board_game_variant_idea_adding/

[mysterycflife]

Petyr Baelish A Song of Ice and Fire / book canon + headcanon / straight / open for shipping

As the son of a small lord from a tiny stretch of land, Petyr had little prospects until his father used the friendship he made with Hoster Tully to have the boy fostered at Riverrun. There, he grew up alongside Lord Tully’s children. As he grew older, he fell in love with Catelyn Tully, and when her wedding to Brandon Stark was announced, he challenged him to a duel for her hand. The duel left him bloodied and near death, and he was given a fortnight to recover before he was sent back to the Fingers. A few years later, Lysa Tully, now married to Jon Arryn, convinced her husband to give Petyr a minor sinecure at Gulltown. There, Petyr proved his talent with numbers and coins by tripling the town’s income. A reason why Lord Arryn brought him to King’s Landing as Master of Coins. He served in this position under King Robert and King Joffrey. Bringing the Tyrells of Highgarden to the crown’s side granted him the title of Lord of Harrenhal. After King Joffrey’s death, Petyr traveled to the Vale to marry the now widowed Lysa Tully, bringing Sansa Stark as his disguised bastard daughter, Alayne.  

Main ships: - Alternative Universes:-

[destroyerofnations92]

For early access to my fanfiction stories set in the World of Westeros and/or A Song of Ice and Fire, come take a look at my Patreon. For only $10/month+VAT you get access to every single one of stories months in advance to regular (free) members and those on other websites, like AO3.

Below a snippet from chapter two of amidst salt and smoke, which is set seven years after season eight of Game of Thrones.

*************

“My lord, it has been six days and nights and the brigands are yet to return. They must have heard of our approach and have fled. Mayhaps we should return to Highgarden?”

Ser Normund Peake was the second son of Lord Titus Peake of Starpike, one of the Reach’s foremost bannermen, though a tad impoverished in recent decades. Ser Normund’s mother was Lady Margot Lannister, a distant cousin to the Hand of the King through one of the Lannister cadet branches, and her lord husband had used that connection to get his son a position at Highgarden.

The young lad was incompetent though. Not particularly bright nor greatly skilled with a sword. Not to mention his spoiled and self-indulgent nature which popped up during the most inopportune times. If it would not bring forth more questions than he was willing to answer, Bronn would have dismissed Ser Normund from his service and have him sent back to Starpike with his tail between his legs.

Alas, he was a great lord and as such he had to politick. No matter how distasteful he found the practice of it all.

Lord Titus was a lord who had kneeled and professed his fealty to his new Lord Paramount, and despite his open distaste of Bronn, he had never rebelled, nor showed any signs of disloyalty. As Talla had told him, that was more than many other lords of the realm could boast of.

“You are welcome to return to Highgarden, Ser Normund,” Ser Bertram Oakheart snapped at the cowardly young man, “Mayhaps you wish to take a warm bath and sample the fine foods of the Highgarden kitchens?”

The man of three and twenty flushed red, humiliated in front of two dozen fine knights, some of whom were more lowborn than most lords allowed in their employ.

“A knight must do uncomfortable things at times, young man,” the Oakheart knight was stern in his rebuke, “And to be honest, this is one of the least uncomfortable things I have had to do in the name of lordly justice.”

If Ser Normund could have grown any redder, Bronn is certain he would have.

“I apologize, captain,” the knight stuttered, “My lord.”

Bronn waves away the apology, wishing for all to just be quiet. Their seventh day laying wait for these brigands had commenced and the sun was blaring down upon their faces, even through the thick of the trees, where they had set up covert camp.

In the distance, Bronn could hear the approach of a caravan and gave a swift signal to their scout, who did as he was bid.

It did not take long for the young man to return, “Half a dozen carts, my lord. I believe they are grain couriers.”

“Good,” Ser Bertram replied, “We have found that grain caravans are disproportionally targeted by these brigands. I am certain this time will be no different, so ready yourselves for attack.”

The men around them nodded, most of them giddy at doing something worthwhile after days of waiting for any sign of their foes. Bronn did notice the worry upon Ser Normund’s visage but said nought. The boy was useless, and if the Lord of Highgarden had any luck whatsoever, he would run into a brigand’s sword that day.

Ser Bertram Oakheart had been right for just as the caravan had moved past them, from the Northwest the heavy sounds of hooves bashing the ground rang their way. With a quick look, their suspicions were confirmed. About a dozen brigands with face coverings were readying themselves for an attack by swiftly approaching the caravan guarded by only a few armed men.

It was far too expensive for many minor lords to hire great companies of armed knights to protect their caravans of trade wares—the Reach was suffering from the tithes demanded of them, both monetary and in-kind contributions.

Upon clambering on his horse, Bronn raised his hand high, waiting for the signal from their scout before giving the command to advance. It took only a few counts before the young man who was peeking through the greenery alerted his liege lord and Bronn lowered his hand swiftly.

As one, the two dozen knights, either on horseback or on foot, descended upon the group of brigands, who were shocked at the attack. From atop his mighty steed, the Lord of Highgarden was the first to engage, swinging his sword and taking off the arm of one of the brigands, who fell upon the ground, screaming in agony.

The other men followed his example, with Ser Bertram at the front.

“Keep a few alive!” Bronn shouted as he swiftly rode after one of the fleeing men. It seemed as if his Dornish sand steed was swifter than the one used by the cowardly thief for the former sellsword quickly caught the man. Bashing his horse into his, the man flew from his saddle onto the hard ground.

Before the brigand could do anything, Bronn had jumped from the back of his horse and put the tip of his sword at the man’s throat, “Who are you? Where is the remainder of the wares you stole?”

The man merely grinned before he pulled a dagger from his sleeve and stabbed himself in the throat.

Bronn watched with wide eyes as the madman bled out before his eyes.

The Lord of Highgarden could not grasp what was happening. One second he was chasing the brigand and the next he was lying dead on the ground with a gaping wound in his throat. What started as a heavy flow of blood spreading around the man, eventually turned into a steady trickle.

Bronn just kept watching with wide eyes. He had seen a great deal of bloodshed in his life. Had inflicted quite a bit of it himself but this? The utter glee with which the man took his own life was baffling to him. Why would he do such a thing and smile about it?

[polyamships]

Chapters: 1/1 Fandom: A Song of Ice and Fire & Related Fandoms, A Song of Ice and Fire - George R. R. Martin, Game of Thrones (TV) Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Relationships: Oberyn Martell/Ellaria Sand/Willas Tyrell, Oberyn Martell/Ellaria Sand Characters: Ellaria Sand, Oberyn Martell, Willas Tyrell, Elia Sand, Sarella Sand, Loreza Sand, Dorea Sand Additional Tags: Alternate Universe - Modern Setting, Modern Westeros, Established Relationship, Long-Distance Relationship, Age Difference, (but they're all adults!!!), Polyamory, Domestic Fluff, First Dates Summary:

Ellaria has seen Willas and Oberyn's relationship from afar, from their letters and text messages, now it's time to meet him.

[thestagthatlovedthewolf]

Ellaria has seen Willas and Oberyn's relationship from afar, from their letters and text messages, now it's time to meet him.

I came back to a song of ice and fire over the holidays!!! So for a polyamory challenge - @holly-poly - I ended up writing Willas/Ellaria/Obeyn for the second time!!! Sharing here if anyone wants to check it out!!!!

[uncrvwned]

𝖕𝖊𝖗𝖒𝖆𝖓𝖊𝖓𝖙 𝖘𝖙𝖆𝖗𝖙𝖊𝖗 𝖈𝖆𝖑𝖑  |  for willas tyrell of a song of ice & fire

default. the eldest son of mace tyrell, willas is heir to highgarden. his knee was permanently damaged in a tourney accident and so he is sometimes dismissed, but his sharp political mind comes from his grandmother olenna, not his father. a force to be reckoned with. hotd. an older relative of the ruling infant lord of highgarden, willas respects his liege lord's choice not to involve house tyrell in the dance. however, he is well respected at court and a powerful cousin to alicent hightower.

mutuals only. multis please specify.

[rainstormies]

(3) beneath the woven canopy

title: light the way

fandom: a song of ice and fire

word count: 2.5k

synopsis: the fall of a king, and the rise of a queen. as the warmth of the reach meets the cold north, ice dances with fire

ALINA

"Alina." The stern voice of Septa Vera woke her up. They had been practising their needlework when Alina must have dozed off. She did not get much sleep last night. Her father's decision lay heavy on her mind. Her thoughts on the matter, however, were not important. If he had decided that she should go, then that was it. Were her parents really just going to put her on a boat and send her off to live with another family?

Of course, there would be no boat. No, the journey from Oldtown to Winterfell would be a long one. They would have to take the Roseroad to King's Landing, and then the Kingsroad all the way north to Winterfell. The journey from King's Landing to Winterfell would be a long and treacherous one, which by horseback would last more than a moon. And from Oldtown to King's Landing? Alina had only been once with her father. It had taken them twenty-five days to get there, and twenty-three back. Alina did not wish to go to the North. She loved The Reach. It was warm and beautiful, just like the people who lived here. Alina had heard the people in the North were a reflection of their weather, harsh and bitter.

Marriage was a topic that had crossed Alina's mind many times before. During the tournament her father had held for her 10th name day, Alina had met the sons of Mace Tyrell. Although she preferred Garlan, who was kind and strong, Alina had always thought she would end up marrying their eldest son Willas. Her brother would rule Oldtown after their father and her home would be in Highgarden as Lady Paramount of the Reach.

But that would not happen anymore. No, Alina's place was no longer in the South, no matter how much she wished it would be.

Her sister Samira was concentrating on her needlework, while their septa stood by watching. Alina could notice her slowly leaning further and further forward toward her work. It was a habit the younger sister had. She would become so focused on a task, she would forget all else. Their septa must have noticed it too, because she put a hand on her shoulder and pushed her back into the chair.

Alina had always thought Samira was an unusual name for a Hightower. Her mother had told them she had met a beautiful girl during her travels in Dorne whom she had named her youngest daughter after.

Alina remembers the day she was born. It was the fifteenth day of the fourth moon. When Alina found out it was a girl, she had begged her father to give her a name. She had chosen Arielle. The name was never used.

Looking at her younger sister, Alina knew what people meant when they said the two sisters could not be more unlike each other. While Alina was described as delicate and beautiful with hair the colour of spun gold, Samira bore the features of House Rowan. She has large dark eyes and long, dark hair that curls down her back. Where Alina is adventurous and brave, Samira is shy and reserved. Septa Vera claims it is because the girl is only nine years old, and will grow into her personality. Alina sometimes wonders if she is a Hightower at all, but she would never dare speak it into words.

As Alina’s gaze drifted to the corner of the room, her eyes found Lanna Rowan, her cousin and closest confidante. Lanna had been sent to Oldtown when she was just eight, her parents deciding that her younger brother Lyonel would inherit Goldengrove, leaving no place for her in her father’s court. Alina had a feeling Lanna’s father was hoping to marry her off to either the son of House Costayne or House Bulwer, two houses sworn to the Hightowers. In truth, Lanna had become more like a sister to Alina than a cousin. She was two years older, with the same dark Redwyne hair as her mother, but her eyes were bright green, a trait of House Rowan. Though she was technically here as Alina’s handmaiden, the two girls shared everything - secrets, dreams, and fears - and Lanna’s quiet strength had always grounded Alina. When the time came to travel to Winterfell, Lanna would accompany her north, as much a companion as a protector in the unfamiliar lands they would soon call home.

"Alina. Samira." The voice of Hightower's steward interrupted the peaceful ambiance of the room. Alina could tell their septa was about to scold the man for disturbing their work, but before she could, the man rushed out, "The Lord Baelor has requested his daughters' presence in the High Hall."

With a resigned glance at her sister, Alina rose from her seat, the needlework momentarily forgotten. Samira looked up at her sister, dark eyes mirroring the uncertainty that lingered in Alina's own.

The High Hall, with its towering arches and extravagant tapestries, felt colder than usual. The steward led the way, his steps echoing through the empty corridors. Alina stole a glance at their septa, whose expression mirrored her own concern. It was not usual for her father to request their presence like this.

Upon entering the hall, Alina and Samira found themselves facing their parents. Lord Baelor Hightower, resolute in his decision, stood beside Lady Rhonda, whose eyes mirrored sadness. Alina knew what this summoning was about, and the air in the room felt heavy with the weight of impending farewells.

“Alina, my dear,” Lord Baelor spoke with a measured tone. “It is time for our journey to Winterfell. Gerold shall accompany us on our journey as well. It is time he leaves this castle and gets to see more of the world.”

That surprised Alina. She thought it would just be her and father. “What about Samira? Can she come as well?”

Her father looked at her sternly, and she already knew what his answer would be. “Sweet Alina, your sister is very young, too young to be travelling such distances. And then we would have to bring Mother too. No, it’s best if it is just the three of us.”

Alina nodded, suppressing the swell of emotions that threatened to overcome her. They were really leaving. The reality of it all, of leaving the warmth of the Reach for the unknown territories of the North settled heavily on her shoulders. 

As preparations unfolded, Alina's bedchambers became a flurry of activity. Dresses were chosen and packed into trunks alongside essentials for the journey, and the air was filled with the scent of beeswax as candles were extinguished.

Amid the controlled chaos, Alina found herself standing by the window, gazing out at the sun-drenched landscape of Oldtown. The familiar sight of the Honeywine River winding through the city brought a pang of nostalgia. How drastically her world was about to change.

Their steward, Ormund Hunt, ever vigilant, approached. "My Lady, the horses are ready. It's time."

The journey through the Roseroad commenced, the Hightower banners waving in the breeze as they departed the ancestral home. Alina rode beside her father, the rhythmic sound of hooves on the cobbled road marking the passage of time.

The familiar landmarks of Oldtown gradually faded into the distance as the Roseroad unfolded before them. Alina could not help but steal glances at her father, searching for reassurance in his stoic expression.

He had suggested Alina travel by carriage, as is custom for women to do. But Alina had refused. She had been taught how to ride from a young age and enjoyed it much more than being locked in a box for hours on end.

Alina could not help but marvel at the sight of Hightower behind them, standing tall against the azure sky.

"Father," she spoke, "Hightower looks even more majestic from a distance. I will miss this as we venture further north."

Lord Baelor nodded, "Indeed, Alina. The Hightower has stood watch over Oldtown for generations. A beacon of strength and legacy. You know our words-"

"We light the way." Alina finished for him. She did know their words. Alina had not thought about them until now, as the tower stood like a beacon in the sky. The tower was built on Battle Isle by the First Men long ago, before the coming of the Andals. It serves as a lighthouse, the beacon on top guiding ships into port where the Honeywine river widens into the Whispering Sound.

Alina wished she could say goodbye one last time, to her mother and her dear sister, who is too young to understand how long it will truly be until they see each other again. She wished she could say goodbye to her grandfather, Lord Leyton Hightower, the current head of their house. He lives in a chamber at the highest point of the tower and has stayed there since before Alina was born. Alina has been to his chambers several times, yet has never seen him leave his room. Her grandfather would read her books of ancient magic when she was younger, Alina's favourites. He told her that their family had for generations practised alchemy and necromancy and that his daughter Malora, the Mad Maid, had prophesied that Alina would go on to possess great powers. Alina had not dared tell her mother about that, she knew how much her mother disliked Lord Layton and his superstitions.

As the days turned into nights, and the sun painted the skies in hues of pink and gold, the journey became a testament to the passage of time. The landscape shifted gradually - from the vineyards of Honeyholt to the fertile fields of the Mander. Alina found solace in the familiar sights, each landmark a marker of the days gone by.

The long journey allowed Alina to witness the ebb and flow of life in the Reach. She saw farmers toiling in the fields, their labour a testament to the bountiful harvest that graced the region. Villages dotted the landscape, their thatched roofs and bustling markets telling stories of everyday life in the sun-kissed realm.

The scent of blooming flowers and the song of nightingales accompanied them as they travelled. Alina found herself captivated by the beauty of the Reach, a warmth that nestled deep within her soul. Yet, beneath the surface, a quiet longing lingered - an anticipation of the unknown that lay ahead.

Their party pressed on, passing through Highgarden and later Bitterbridge, each milestone bringing them closer to King's Landing. Alina's thoughts oscillated between the comforting memories of Oldtown and the uncertainties that awaited her in the capital.

And then, finally, the city of kings sprawled before them - an intricate tapestry of red-tiled roofs and towering spires. The shadow of the Red Keep loomed over King's Landing, a symbol of power and politics that stood in stark contrast to the open fields of the Reach.

Upon entering the capital, Alina and her father were graciously received by the court of King Robert Baratheon and his wife, Queen Cersei. The castle, a labyrinth of grand corridors and opulent chambers, bore witness to the ebb and flow of political machinations.

As their party settled into the castle, Alina found herself captivated by the grandeur of the Red Keep. As her father exchanged pleasantries with the King and his council, Alina wandered through halls adorned with crimson and gold, colours that reminded her of House Lannisters. She knew the queen was a Lannister, the sister of the Kingslayer. She had seen him earlier, Jamie Lannister, in his golden armour. He looked more like the knights in the stories, and Alina thought he looked more like a king than Robert Baratheon ever would.

Alina's exploration led her to the throne room, where the legendary Iron Throne sat, a majestic and imposing sight. The swords that forged the seat seemed to whisper the tales of battles and conquest.

Alina could not resist the urge to approach the throne. She gingerly touched its cold, hard surface, her fingers tracing the intricate patterns. It was a tangible connection to the seat of power in the Seven Kingdoms, and for a moment, the weight of history pressed upon her.

As she stood there lost in contemplation, a voice interrupted her thoughts. "It's quite a sight, isn't it?"

Alina turned to find a young girl, not much younger than herself, with golden curls framing her face. The innocence in her eyes betrayed the harsh reality of the court.

"I'm Myrcella," the girl introduced herself, her smile genuine and welcoming.

Alina returned the smile. "Alina Hightower. It is a pleasure to meet you, Princess Myrcella."

Myrcella's eyes widened with excitement. "You're from the Reach, right? I have heard it is beautiful there. Do you have flowers everywhere, like they say?"

Alina chuckled, finding an immediate connection with the young princess. "Yes, the Reach is known for its gardens and blossoms. It is quite beautiful there."

Myrcella approached the older girl carefully. The soft pink gown she was wearing seemed to flow with every step, and it reminded her of the clouds she could see from Hightower during sunsets.

"My mother said you were going to Winterfell, to the Starks." Myrcella began. "Is it true you are to marry one of them?" Her voice was calm, yet Alina could tell the girl was excited for her.

"Yes. I am betrothed to Lord Eddard Stark's heir." Alina replied, it was the first time she had said it aloud.

"I have heard he's just like his father. And handsome too." The young girl added as she giggled.

As the day waned into night, and the Red Keep cast its shadow over the gardens, Alina and Myrcella found solace amidst the blooms. Under the moonlit sky, they strolled through the garden. The vibrant colours of the blossoms seemed to dance in the breeze. Alina could not help but be captivated by the fragrant blooms that surrounded her - roses, lilies, and daisies painted the scene in hues reminiscent of the Reach.

"These gardens are so pretty," Myrcella remarked, her emerald eyes alight with admiration. "It's almost like a paradise, isn't it?"

Alina, her gaze lingering on a bed of roses, nodded with a bittersweet smile. "Indeed, Princess Myrcella. The flowers remind me of home, of the gardens in the Reach. There's a warmth there that even the gardens of King's Landing can't quite replicate."

Myrcella's expression softened with understanding. "Home is a special place. I can't imagine what it's like to be far from it."

As Alina continued to share tales of the Reach, she could not help but feel a pang of longing. The vivid imagery of her home, and the aroma of blooming flowers carried by the wind, stirred emotions that transcended the physical distance between King's Landing and Oldtown.

"And your sister, Samira, you said?" Myrcella inquired, her eyes curious.

Alina's gaze turned wistful. "Yes, Samira. She's the youngest of us, and the gardens of Hightower were her playground. The way you marvel at these flowers, Myrcella, it reminds me so much of her."

Myrcella smiled warmly. "It sounds like you miss her dearly. I have a brother, Tommen, and I miss him when I'm away from home too."

As the two continued their conversation, the bond between them deepened. Myrcella's company offered a semblance of comfort in this unfamiliar setting. When they returned to the throne room, her father was waiting for her, and Alina knew it was time for them to leave.

[adsofconquest]

the   illustrious   keep   of   highgarden   beckons   to   all   as   king   aegon   iii   and   his   consorts,   queen   visenya   and   queen   rhaenyra,   initiate   the   selection.   having   already   extended   an   invitation   to   each   house   of   the   realm,   the   halls   begin   to   fill   with   excitement   and   anticipation   for   what   is   to   come.   vying   for   unity   throughout   the   realm   following   the   events   of   the   dance   of   the   dragon,   king   aegon   iii   has   deigned   to   marry   the   eldest   son   and   daughter   of   house   targaryen   to   one   of   his   subjects.   the   halls   are   adorned   with   banners   and   tapestries   depicting   the   sigils   and   histories   of   each   house,   beckoning   those   from   each   corner   of   the   realm   to   join   in   on   the   festivities.   as   the   date   draws   closer,   more   and   more   nobles   are   arriving   to   the   reach   with   their   own   agendas.   some   desire   to   unite   their   house   with   the   blood   of   the   dragon,   some   have   desires   for   the   throne,   and   some   are   not   yet   over   the   war   fought   between   the   two   factions   of   house   targaryen.   in   this   time   of   political   turmoil,   the   events   to   unfold   are   not   without   strong   questioning.   shall   the   king   be   successful   in   uniting   the   realm   or   shall   more   treachery   befall   westeros?

𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐐𝐔𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐇𝐐    is   an   alternate   universe,   a   song   of   ice   and   fire   /   game   of   thrones   tumblr   roleplay.   focusing   on   the   political   drama   of   the   king's   selection,   we   step   into   the   world   of   fantasy,   mystery,   and   tragedy.   our   journey   embarks   upon   arrival   to   highgarden   for   the   beginning   of   king   aegon   iii's   festivities.

[misguidedasgardian]

The White Dragon (25)

25. In the Dragon's den

MASTERLIST

Summary: The consequences of Aemond’s actions

Pairings: main Harwin Strong x Fem!Targaryen reader

Warnings: cursing, medieval and A song of ice and Fire AU customs, minors getting married, talks about “bedding” and “having sex” about underage persons. 

+18, MINORS DNI

Wordcount: 3.4 k

Notes: SURPRISE! I finished it early!

Criston Cole being petty HAHAHA his part and thoughts in this are written sarcastically, just so you know! 😂

Since Aemond confessed to the small council of the horrible accident, the meetings were tense, and almost awkward. 

He had gained a seat in it, alongside his brother, the King. Aegon had to be dragged to attendance, sometimes suffering the spoils of the night before where he indulged in wine and sex. Since he rose to power he didn’t even bother in leaving the Keep, he just brought his ladies from the skin trade and his other vices to the Keep through secret passageways and sometimes he wouldn’t even bother in hiding them. 

“Had the Blacks declared war yet?”, asked Aegon, playing with the dragoneye in front of him

“No”, Otto muttered, their silence was terrifying. They expected a full scale attack, they were sighting the skies for enemies every hour. But the silence was worse. They had been 

“What about the ravens we have sent?”, asked Alicent 

“We received letters from all over the Kingdoms”, said the Hand with a smile, “Ha! see? a letter from the North, already the lords of the seven Kingdoms are falling in line”, claimed Otto, removing the seal and opening the letter. Alicent had a pleased and content smile on her face. But at seeing his father’s grin change suddenly, panic quickly settled in

“What? What is it?” she asked, Aegon raised his gaze as well to look at his grandfather

“They recognized Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen as the legitimate Queen of the seven Kingdoms” he said, reading. 

“What?”

“They left it clear that they bend the knee, recognizing her as the legitimate heir to the Iron Throne”, he continued, “Furthermore, they know about the death of the princess and they…”, he swallowed hard

“What?”, asked Alicent

“They considered it an act of war, they called their bannermen, they are gathering the northern army to march south”, Alicent opened her eyes widely

“They won’t dare go this far south”, she said

“Once they meet with the Knights of the Vale, they will”, Otto said, “the northerners went ahead even more, they repudiate the ascension of Aegon the drunk, calling him a usurper”, he said firmly

“They would wage war against the crown?” she asked, indignant

“...Against the usurper”, he called, “That wretched princess whored his sons to Cregan Stark, it has to be” she muttered

“They loved each other since they were children”, said Alicent. They were interrupted by a guard, who entered solemnly, guiding a maester, a letter in his hand

“Lord Hand, a letter from Dorne”, he said, delivering the letter a making a bow, and then abandoning the room

“Let’s see”, he opened the letter and read attentively, and then his face showed that it wasn't good news either. “We don’t with dance dragons” he muttered, “But Dorne recognizes no King, but Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen, and will not recognize the rule of the Usurper Aegon the drunk”, he spitted out, “For the Princess’ death, we will collect every soldier that crosses the border and sink every ship that dares to cross our shores”, he read

“Gods be good”, cried the Queen, “what about Highgarden? and Riverrun?”

“No news of highgarden, the Riverlands are of the Strongs and the Tullys, both houses are Black”

“So…” muttered Aegon, who was suffering the consequences of the exploits of the night before, “We don’t have the North… we don’t have the Vale, of course we don’t have the Riverlands because of the Strongs… We don’t have Dorne either” 

“We have the Stormlands” mutter the Queen, “We might have the Reach, we have the Westerlands”

“We haven’t got word from The Reach” muttered Otto, “They keep this Kingdom’s food in their storages, we do not risk in involving them, they will stay at the sidelines, as they had always done”, but then he smiled, “but we have Oldtown, they had been preparing their army for years”, Alicent looked at him with warning. 

“We can’t leave the castle because they have the city watch, mother”, murmured Aegon, “One step out of the keep and we are dead”

“THIS IS YOURS BY RIGHT!” she snapped, “VISERYS…” and then she got quiet, “wanted you to be King, this is your birthright” she continued, in her eyes unshed tears, “the Gods are with us”

“They Gods don’t have armies”, said Aemond

“You killed the only person that was preventing the blacks from coming for our heads”, said Tyland, “Rhaenyra doesn’t give a shit about Aemma, Daemon won’t hesitate to throw the entire country into war”. 

“Yes, Aemma…”, said Otto, “the only valuable asset we have, she is the key to the Riverlands, Harwin is still alive, as are their brothers, three grown dragons…” 

“Wed her to me”, said Aemond

“Before she found out what you did?”, laughs Aegon

“Yes”

“It could be a good idea”, muttered Tyland. Larys only looked at everything with a shy smile

“How long until our army is here?”, asked Alicent

“It could be months, but the Baratheons are preparing as we speak”, said Otto, “and we have the royal army”

“If the City watch takes arms against them it could mean a civil war”, said Alicent 

“What news of Harrenhal?”, asked Alicent to Larys

“It’s been quiet, my brother hasn't call for his banners yet”, he said with that unsettling smile

“He must be in mourning”, whispered Alicent

“We could take the advantage”, said Tyland, “Harrenhal is essential, is a great garrison to gather a large force, and the closest to King’s Landing”

“I agree”, said Otto, looking right at Aemond, “we need Harrenhal”, Aemond knew his grandfather was speaking directly to him. He understood his role, he was the dragon rider with the biggest dragon, the one that was dispensable, his brother was King and his sweet sister, she couldn’t ride to war.

So he was the chosen one

To fly into battle and destroy his family, the family that he had come to love. Perhaps he could speak with Aemma, perhaps he could talk to Rhaegar and Maekar, and. He drew a sharp breath, he had killed their mother, they would kill him in sight, or try to. He wouldn’t be able to bear to kill his nephews.

“We will find the most suited commander to lead the forces from the capital to take Harrenhal”, said Otto. 

Perhaps Aemond killing the Princess wasn’t so bad, it’s like the cut the head of the dangerous dragon. Well, the dragon did have another two heads, two chaotic, restless mindless heads… Daemon and Rhaenyra will eat each other first.

“In Harrenhal we don’t have more than a thousand men, but as soon as Daemon reaches Riverrun we are expected to gather the entirety of the Riverland army”, told Harwin pointing at the map, “But I’m worried about those little towns in the path of the Lannister army, we will have to guard them, either way, when we secure the Neck The northers and the army from the Vale will gather easily, when we gather that force we will destroy everything in our path”, said Harwin, sure of his word

“But if we gather all the forces, it will be easier for a dragon, Vhagar, to burn them all”, observed another 

“Yes, it would be wise to keep them separated”, said Rhaenyra

“Lord Borros has allied with the Greens”, said Daemon

“So it looks like the North against the South”, muttered Rhaenyra

“We need to find a way to block The Lannisters from joining King’s Landing Army”

“The Riverland army seems to be the obvious choice”

“So Harwin, I need you to call in your bannermen”, said Daemon, “we need you in the Riverlands”

“I will…”

“No!”, said Rhaenyra, calling the attention of everyone there, “It’s too dangerous”, Daemon wouldn’t miss how Rhaenyra grabbed his hand. But Harwin retracted his hand from hers

“This is what I need to do”, he said firmly, “this is how we fuck them up, I want theirs heads in spikes”

“Don’t we all”, said Daemon, looking at him, amused. 

Meanwhile, in another room in the castle

“This shit is ridiculous”, growled Crestan, as he packed the few belongings he had on his bag, “I’m going to look for her and nobody is stopping me, fuck this shit!”, he mumbled to himself, “Like hell they will burn me, they don’t know shit!”. He grabbed his sack and threw it over hsi shoulders

Great dragon lords these ones, not even a scout to search for her!

He will take matters into his own hands

He managed to exit the castle without being bothered, and now he was walking towards the small village, crossing it to get to the dock.

But before he could reach his boat, I mean, ship, he was intercepted by none other than Daemon himself

“Where are you going?”, he asked

“To search for her”, he answered plainly

“If you sneak me into King’s Landing I will let you leave”, he said, his hands grasping his famous Valyrian Steel sword, Dark sister

“King’s Landing? Are you insane?”, he asked. Daemon just shook his head

“Speak nothing of it, and you will be able to leave this gods forsaken island never to return”, he said firmly

“So the only thing I have to do is take you to King’s Landing?”, Daemon nodded, “Well, raise the anchors”, he said with a mocking smile

“What are you going to do there?”, he asked

“A nephew for a niece”, he cryptically said

In Winterfell, the castle was on high alert, all the Lords and ladies had returned home to gather their men, and soon they would all march and gather all of their force in Moat Cailin. And then, wreak havoc in the Capital.

They knew the Riverlands belonged to the blacks, so they didn’t quite know who they were going to face. It was expected that small towns could rise against their lord in allegiance to the Usurper, but still. 

Maekar and Rhaegar had stood alongside Cregan, and the man trusted them with everything regarding the preparations for the march. They had reports of all the Lord and Ladies ready to march from their homes, so clearly Winterfell and all the towns around it had gathered their men and were preparing to depart.

Maekar grabbed his brother and took him to the God’s Wood, so they could have a proper conversation, alone. 

“I spoken to Cregan, and i made a decision”, he said

“You made a decision?”, Rhaegar asked

“We both are parting ways”, he said firmly. and Rhaegar looked at him, angry 

“But mom said…”

“Mom is gone”, he said firmly, “she might be gone for good, or she might be in some distant beach, washed up on some shore, but right now, she isn’t here”

“What should we do, then?”, asked Rhaegar 

“What is the first place those fuckers are going to try and take?” Maekar tried to reason with his brother. “They are going to Harrenhal, that one-eye bastard on that fucking flying dinosaur and I have to be there with our father”

“We are going, then”

“No, you are staying here”

“I’m not letting you leave to go fighting and probably dying, while I stay here doing nothing!”, he fought back

“You are not doing nothing, you will stay with Lord Cregan, and march South with him and his army” 

“But…”

“They are our allies”, he sentenced, “they are going south, they are putting their lives at risk for us, for our cause, for mom, you and Karnax are going to guard them and protect them” 

“You are going to die”, he said firmly, “you cannot face Vhagar alone”

“I probably won’t be alone, there is Daemon, and Rhaenyra, and Jace, and Luke, they all have dragons, together we will defeat Vhagar”, he said, sure of his words but not truly believing them, he pictured many members of their family flying into the battlefield atop their dragons, Aunt Rhaenyra wasn’t one of them

“We will meet in Harrenhal then, but you have to promise me one thing”

“Yes”

“You will call for me, whatever happens”

“Very well”, and Maekar offered his arm, and Rhaegar grabbed his forearm and his twin did the same.

“Good luck brother”

“Don’t fucking die”, said Rhaegar, “Or I will kill you”

“How are you going to kill me if…”

“Shut up”

It was hard for them both, they were the oldest of the siblings, they had a responsibility, and that responsibility was their two baby brother and sister. They were too small to understand what was going on, so they couldn’t quite explain it, but, they couldn’t just leave and abandon them

“Will you be good?”, asked Maekar to both children, and they nodded

“Why is everyone leaving?”, Asked Saera

“We have to go to King’s Landing”, said Rhaegar

“Why? Can we go with you?”

“You must stay here”

“Where is mama and papa?”, asked Vaegor

“They are in Dragonstone with aunt Rhaenyra”, they didn’t have the heart to tell them you had perished, not yet.

“You have to stay here, and be nice”, demanded Maekar

“When mama and papa are going to come?”, asked Saera

“Soon we will all come back, and then we will go home”, said Rhaegar, “but right now you have to stay here”

They weren’t proud of abandoning their little siblings, but they did know that this was the safest palace of all, that here they were going to be safe, war was no place for children, Dragonstone was the enclave of The Blacks, sooner or later the war was going to reach it. 

Leaving Saera and Vaegor they got out of the castle, ready to part ways, the entirety of the Stark family and the rest of their court was outside, to say goodbye to the men that were going to war. Rhaegar went straight to his betrothed, as Maekar walked towards Cregan to let him know of his decision 

“My brother will guard your march, I have to go ahead and go to Harrenahl, my father is going that way”, Cregan nodded

“Be careful boy”, he answered, I’ll see you in three weeks time

“If we fail, can you promise me you’ll retake Harrenhal?”, he asked hopefully, Cregan only smiled

“I promise”

“When I’m back from war”, Rhaegar said gently, “I’m coming back for you”, he said sweetly, she slapped his chest playfully

“You better Southerner”, she warned cheekily, “I’ll be waiting for you”, Rhaegar smiled

“When I’m back, we will marry”, he said and she smiled and nodded, “and in your belly you will carry the most beautiful girl”, he whispered, making her blush

“And then the strongest boy”, she continued. Rhaegar stole another kiss from his betrothed, “Where will we live?”, she asked

“Wherever you want”, he offered, “we could stay here, or we could go South, to the Whitehall”

“I’d love that”, she said

“Very well”, he leaned in and kissed her again, “Can I ask you to…”

“I will take care of your siblings”, she said with a wide smile

“I love you”

So with sweet words and hopeful promises, Maekar flied towards Harrenhal on Aerion, while Rhaegar rode his horse at Cregan’s side, his dragon Karnax flying above them

They sat Aemma in the small council meeting, she looked at all of them there, Queen Alicent, Otto Hightower, Aegon and Aemond 

“We want you to write a letter”, said Alicent. “to your family in Dragonstone”

“And what will I write in that letter?”, she asked in a whisper

“That your wish is to avoid the war”, she said, “that you want to return to your family and for doing so, the armies that had gathered against us will dissolve”

“The war is breaking out?”, she asked, with her big eyes wide open

“Yes”, said Otto, “but it is not too late, write this letter for your aunt…”

“I’m not comfortable with this”, she said

“I don’t give a shit!”, jumped Aegon, “write the fucking letter!”

“Aegon!”, called Alicent. Aemond placed a hand on Aemma’s back making her jump

“This could be very helpful”, he said in a whisper, “we want to avoid bloodshed, we want to avoid war”

“If you wanted to avoid war you shouldn't have usurped a throne”, she said looking back at him

“We didn’t usurp it”, said Alicent, “this is King Viserys last will”

“Oh I bet it was”, she mocked, she slid the piece of paper and the quill back to Alicent across the table, “you are not going to use me”

“She is right mother, perhaps we should send Rhaenyra and Harwin a finger or one of her ears”, Aegon mocked. Aemma jumped backwards trying to get away from him

“Ser Criston, escort Princess Amena back to her chambers”, commanded Otto and he, with a complaint smile, did.

Criston Cole looked at the princess, disgusted, he loaded the young princess, why?, because he recognizes the type in her, the type of girl that would bewitch a good man such as Aemond, and drag him to damnation, and to forget his vows, just like princess Rhaenyra. She seems all sweet and good, but he knew better

When she left, Alicent took a long sigh

“You will not marry that girl”, sentenced Otto, and Aemond looked at him

“What?”

“She is a traitor, of a family of traitors, she will not bend the knee, we cannot have you marry her, we need you to secure other alliances”, his grandfather explained 

“But we will ask something of you”, said Alicent, grabbing his hand over the table. “Make sure to put a baby in her belly”, whispered the Queen. Aemond looked at her with his eye wide open

“What?”, he asked cautiously. His mother was embarrassed, he knew as much

“I’m not proud…”, she began, “but Rhaenyra's strongest ally is her sister’s family, we have her daughter, she would never put her at risk, as long as we have her they won’t attack, if Aemma is with child the risk diminishes…”

“The Princess is dead”, he said bitterly

“But her allies aren’t”, said Otto, “her siblings aren’t, they have two grown dragons, and the North!”

“I’m not marrying her…”, he whispered, “and you want me to defile her…”

“Aemond”, called his grandfather, but the young man just had to look at him once for him to keep quiet

“It’s Aemma”, he said to his mother, “my Aemma, and you want me to ruin her, to break her” 

“She is our hostage”, said Otto, and that made Aemond’s blood boil

“She is not “ours”, she is mine!”, he said firmly, “My Aemma”, he grunted, “Not our hostage, she is mine”. ANd with that, he left the room

Indignant, he felt disgusted, betrayed, his mother! what she asked of him. He wanted to be alone, away from all these people, maybe what he truly wanted was to go back to those times where he thought he had a complete and happy family, with Aemma and his nephews and his sister. 

She needed to see the one good person he realized that lived in the Red Keep, so he went to look for his sister, but Aegon found him instead 

“Did you enjoy the mission I gave you?”, he mocked 

“No, she is barely a woman”, he said firmly. He was not going to reveal to him how much he loved her, NEVER. 

“The more younger women are, the most delicious”, he whispered 

“I can’t believe the Gods put you on this earth before me”, he grunted

“Oh I bet you are”

“I will comply with this disgusting mission”, no he wasn’t going to comply to their sick mission, but Aegon didn’t need to know, the last thing he wanted was him going after Aemma, his sick brother drunk with wine and power

”Are you sure brother?”, asked Aegon, ignoring his brother, “that you are up to the task?” he rolled his eyes, asking the gods for patience, “because if you want, I could break her in for you”, at that he grabbed his brother by the collar of his tunic and threw him towards the wall of the hallway

“If you touch her…”, he whispered, “...I’ll kill you”, he whispered dangerously against his face

“I’m your King”, muttered in threat

“You more than anyone know how little that means to me”, he answered, releasing him and kept walking, forget Helaena, he needed to clear his head, and what better to do that then a quick flight on Vhagar’s back

More notes: You should have realised by now how much I love cliffhangers HAHAHA SORRYYYYY

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