#rowena arryn

[witchthewriter]

𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐀𝐫𝐫𝐲𝐧 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐸𝑦𝑟𝑖𝑒

𝑴𝒐𝒕𝒕𝒐: "As High as Honor" 𝑺𝒊𝒈𝒊𝒍: is a sky-blue falcon soaring upwards, outlined against a white moon on a sky-blue field. 𝑻𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒕𝒔: darker hair, lighter skin, and gray or darker eyes with strong Andal traits.

𝑯𝒐𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝑨𝒓𝒓𝒚𝒏 𝒊𝒔 one of the Great noble Houses of the Seven Kingdoms. Their seat is the Eyrie - which is considered impregnable. Their other holding is their Winter castle; the Gates of the Moon (which was once their main seat).

Both castles are next to the Giant's Lance, the tallest mountain in the Vale with the Gates of the Moon in front and the Eyrie further back, nearing the top.

The Arryns have many distant relatives throughout the Vale. However, they are much poorer, the exception are the Arryns of Gulltown. An example is Petyr Baelish - although lesser they are still proud of their name and heritage.

The founder of House Arryn was Ser Artys Arryn, known as the Falcon Knight, and it was founded by the Coming of the Andals. King Roland I Arryn, the grandson of Ser Artys and fourth Arryn king, began the process of building the Eyrie.

The First Men who did not accept Artys as their king were forced into the Mountains of the Moon, becoming the Vale mountain clans.

During the Conquest, the Arryn and Targaryen fleets fought in a battle in the waters off Gulltown, which resulted in the destruction of the Targaryen fleet and the death of its commanding officer, Daemon Velaryon. Visenya Targaryen, on her dragon Vhagar, burned the Arryn fleet in response.

Visenya was tasked with securing the Vale. So, Visenya flew on Vhagar to obtain the surrender of the Vale of Arryn. When Sharra Arryn, the Queen Regent of the Vale, returned to the Eyrie she found her son sitting on Visenya's lap asking if he could ride the dragon with her. Once Sharra yielded and bent the knee, Ronnel flew twice with Visenya and Vhagar.

The Arryns have since remained Defenders of the Vale and Wardens of the East for the Iron Throne.

[coldraindropsss]

Jeyne Royce, Rowena Arryn, lysa Tully

Jon Arryn wives

[crazyprompts4asoiafdune]

ASOIAF AU

All the dead ladies--Rowena Arryn, Minisa Whent Tully, Lyarra Stark and Joanna Lannister--are alive and well when the Harrenhal Tourney takes place. Cassana Estermont Baratheon is also living, because Steffon sent her in the earlier boat with Renly and his nurse. What impact does their being alive have  on events?

[asongofgoldenfireandblackblood]

The Pearls of The Realm

Rowena Waynwood - The Pearl of The Vale The Pearls of The Realm are known as the most beautiful, gracious, and kind, eligible maidens from each region of The Seven Kingdoms. Equal parts a lovely friend, enviable peer, and romantic match many a young heir and knight would ride to defend, Pearls are considered the embodiment of everything a Lady should be, and serve as shining examples for all those around them to strive for much and more in everything they do.

Leyla is an open and highly wanted character on the site, along with several other connections from House Waynwood, she is especially wanted by her aunt, the Lady Paramount Jeyne Arryn, as well as by, Lady Teora Grafton, Prince Joffrey Velaryon, Lady Lacey Vance, Oscar Tully, Princess Rhaena Targaryen, and Lady Sabitha Frey home — wanted — navigate — apply — discord

[talestold-a]

closed starter for warrick waynwood on day two, @wylldfyres.

while the boat racing is not entirely exciting to rowena, other than being an active participant, she knows ryon would throw a fit if not in attendance. anything that seemed grand or just a touch out of understanding, he was all over it. by now, the boy should be with his governess, but a tantrum has set them back before the races. she is in search of her then, needing to get ready, though rowena happens to bump into someone familiar all the same. " good afternoon, lord warrick, " she greets, attempting to calm the wiggling toddler in her arms. his face tucks into her shoulder and rowena gives a satisfied grin. " i wish you luck in the race today. i might have even put gold on your team to win... mine too, just in case. "

[xfulminare]

fruit picking with rowena arryn @talestold

though initially reluctant to leave his home while he was still in the midst of repairs, upon arriving in the reach he had committed to enjoying the celebrations as much as possible. or at least taking full advantage of them. smooth, sure steps were taken towards his new partner, polite but warm smile on his lips as he did. "lady rowena, I believe I am to get the pleasure of your company this afternoon. I must confess to having little practise when it comes to such activities but with weather and a setting so lovely I am sure it will still be an afternoon well spent." lannisport might receive regular shipments of such fruits for him to enjoy but there was something novel about being able to select the produce himself. "shall we?" with the posing of the question he gestured ahead of them, willing to let her take the lead and dictate where they started.

[kingsanddragonsandgods]

⁂Early life:

Princess Visenya Targaryen of Runestone was born on the last day of the year 90AC, at her mother's ancestral home.

The newborn child was named after the Conqueror Queen, Visenya, by her father and anointed by holy oils seven days after her birth at the Sept-by-the-Sea in Runesport.

Queen Alysanne, who held the child during the ceremony is noted for having remarking that ‘the girl has all of Viserra’s beauty, but Alyssa’s temper’ to which the King is said to have answered ‘Gods be good’.

As Princess Visenya grew, her parents continued to battle, using the young girl as a pawn in their conflict, with both parents appealing to the King and Queen to take their side on occasion.

During her early years she grew especially close to her natural born brother, Orys Stone, the illegitimate son of Prince Daemon by Lady Rowena Royce, Lady Rhea’s older third cousin. The young boy was brought into Lady Rhea’s household in the year 90AC, following the passing of his mother.

From the age of five, her parents’ estrangement was permanent, with Prince Daemon returning to the Crownlands and Lady Rhea and their daughter remaining at the Vale. After royal intervention it was agreed that the Princess time was to be split between living in Runestone with her mother, and between the Red Keep and Dragonstone with her father, alternating during the seasons, summer and winter was spent on the Vale, while spring and autumn in the Crownlands, special celebrations were shared.

Her education appears to have been strict and somewhat old-fashioned, thus, in addition to her studies, Grand Maester Runciter notes in his journals, she was taught spinning and weaving and had an innate talent for weaving intricate tapestry. From the year 92 forward, Visenya, who had been betrothed to her newborn cousin, Prince Aerion, was expected to become Queen Consort, and her education reflected it. Her betrothed passed away in his cradle two years later, and Visenya was then betrothed to his newborn brother, Prince Aelor.

Her tutors at the time, Maester Adelin, Archmaester Vaegon and Master Petrarca of Volantis, regarded Princess Visenya as an extroverted, lively, highly intelligent, and strong-willed girl. Prince Daemon was reported to be proud of her horsemanship and marksmanship.

Because of her outstanding intellect, and his blunt favoritism, King Jaehaerys named Princess Visenya as his cupbearer in the Year 96AC, at the age of six.

The young princess often was allowed to discuss the classics, philosophy, and the affairs of state with ambassadors and envoys visiting the court of Jaehaerys. Moreover, she was personally acquainted with the painters, musicians, writers, and scholars who lived in and around the royal court.

Princess Visenya if often considered one of, if not, the best educated women of her generation.

The year 96AC marked another milestone for Princess Visenya: on the eight moon of the year, the young princess bonded and became the first rider of a she-dragon she named Huraxes. The same dragon that as a hatchling had been brought to Princess Daenerys Targayen. Huraxes had pearly scales and iridescent wing membranes, with pale and pinkish flames. The princess was allowed to bond with the she-dragons by royal decree after falling ill with a bolt of Spring Fever that nearly took her life.

Matches for Princess Visenya started being discussed by the Small Council, brought up by the Lord Hand. Thought Visenya was heiress to the largest fortress in the Vale and to the Ladyship of Runestone, it was argued that as she was a Princess of the Realm, the matter of her marriage was a prerogative of the King, which infuriated Prince Daemon, who at the time occupied the seat of Master of Law, the Grand Master agreed that such line of thought might anger the Vale, as the Princess was highly regarded by her people and her second cousin, the Lady Jeyne Arryn. Lord Corlys suggested his own son as a match for the princess, four years her junior, most likely to tie another dragonrider to his house. His Grace put down all talks of marriage for his niece, agreeing that such was the right of his brother and good sister to choose her match.

For the celebration of his niece's fifteenth nameday, the king ordered seven days of celebrations, with a tournament and grand feasts. The Queen's absence was noticed, excused as Her Grace was in the early stages of her final pregnancy, and Visenya was allowed to sit in the seat usually reserved for the consort; she was crowned Queen of Love and Beauty by the Dornish Ser Eldric Dayne, the Star in the Morning.

Since the Princess's return to court early in the spring of 104 AC, Visenya had caught the king’s eye, and it is reported that Viserys and his niece have become very close, spending hours each day in each other's company, promenading in the gardens, hunting in the Kingswood, and dancing together during feasts and balls.

The king is said to have spoiled his niece with lavish gifts, including presenting her with a manse in King’s Landing, a country estate crossing the Blackwater Rush and later a sea palace in the Reach.

⁂Marriage and Queenship:

After the death of Queen Aemma Arryn in the Year 105 AC, Princess Visenya, aged 15, became the 2nd wife and Queen Consort of her uncle, King Viserys I Targaryen. Their betrothal was announced a month following the queen’s passing, and a private ceremony was held three months later in Dragonstone.

It was a scandal at the time, as not only the King’s new marriage was announced a moon after the late queen’s passing in childbed, but it had also been rumored for some time that Viserys and Visenya had been lovers.

More salacious tales propagated by the fool Mushroom during the Dance of the Dragons tells of the princess sitting on her uncle's lap during feasts, kissing him shamelessly, and nibbling his fingers sensually as he fed her like a beloved pet; of the king fondling her breasts in public, and announcing to his courtiers that he and his niece would retire to make love. These have no contemporary support, with Septon Eustace calling such tales absurd and slanderous.

Over the matter of his marriage to his niece Viserys claimed that the marriage was in the public interest and ordered a grand celebration for the occasion of his new queen's coronation, to happen after the end of mourning period for Prince Baelon. Visenya was the first Queen Consort crowned in a separate ceremony from the reigning King. During the occasion the apparent advanced state of the queen's pregnancy caused a new wave of rumors that Visenya had been the King's mistress while the queen was still alive and that their child was conceived out of wedlock.

In their more than two decades of marriage, Visenya and Viserys had fourteen children, all survived into adulthood, something that the maesters attribute to the queen’s management of the nursery. Visenya’s role as a mother was glorified throughout the realm, their young new queen’s obvious fertility was seen, by the smallfolk and nobles alike, as both a bless from the Mother and a sign from the gods. With the birth of her twin girls, Princess Viserra and Princess Rhaelys, coins were issued, portraying her as the Mother, an allegory that would repeat itself many times for the remaining of her husband’s and son’s reign. If in her maidenhood, as a young princess, Visenya posed as a model for sculptures of the Maiden, in motherhood and queenship, she was now the Mother.

Although it was not the norm of the age, and in fact, apart from the late Queen Alysanne, no other queen receive such a honor, King Viserys granted Visenya a seat on his Small Council, leaning on her for advice on varied subjects due to his respect for her opinion and good judgment. She became a formidable figure with far-reaching influence during this time. According to some sources, her influence was such that Queen Visenya effectively ran the government alongside the Hand of the King.

In the year 115AC, around the time of her stepdaughter’s wedding to Ser Leanor Velaryon and in the years that followed, the Queen Consort started to work and put her own trusted people in ever higher positions to strengthen herself and her sons through them.

Visenya acted as her first husband’s regent after his health decline, sat in her eldest son’s war table following Viserys’s death.

⁂Personality:

Some historians have contended that to some extent she deserved her negative reputation propagated by her stepdaughter following the death of King Viserys I, despite the inaccuracies of the claims that she was sexually disreputable or regarding the legitimacy of her children, other criticisms of her were valid: she was ambitious, proud, obstinate, and masked her cunning behind a sweet-toned voice and flawless manners.

Princess Rhaenyra described her as a woman of reckless extravagance and wantonness, who seduced a grieving man, and whom the King nonetheless loved passionately and faithfully. It is widely known that those part of the Black Court of the Princess of Dragonstone took to call the queen ‘the King’s Great Whore’ and ‘Lady Concubine’, however always away from both the queen and the king’s ears as well as her supporters, further spreading the rumors of an extramarital affair while the late Queen Aemma still lived and questioning the validity of the legitimacy of their children. Despite rumors spread on her sons legitimacy supported by the queen's supposed lasciviousness, all of Visenya’s children resembled those of her lineage.

In her youth, Visenya was celebrated as ‘the most beautiful creature in the world’ and that there was ‘nothing lacking in her that the most beautiful girl should have’. Ser Alyn of Hull would reflect later in her lifetime that regarding her appearance ‘there were few women who could compete with the Queen in her prime’.

Visenya was fiercely independent, a trait she shared with her mother. Mellos described her as having ambitions to match her pedigree. However, Archmaester Gyldayn notes that Visenya was fully aware that a woman in Westeros could not hold power in her own right. Instead, Visenya orchestrated the rise of her sons.

Capable of acts of extreme ruthlessness, she, in contrast, was also able to demonstrate uttermost kindness and charity.

⁂Issue:

At four and thirty of age by the time of their weeding, Viserys was already considered in his middle age. The union however proved itself to be a happy one, and together they had 14 children, nine sons and five daughters.

Visenya had been taught the importance of receiving an education and came to play an extensive role in her children' education, resulting in the creation of a "superior breed of princes."

Queen Visenya was know to call her children her 'precious jewels', and took great pride in all of them, she was particularly close to the princesses Alyssa and Elaena, however it is said, that from all her children, her favorite was Prince Aegon.

edited on 11/04/2024

[daenysthedreamer101]

Daughter of Steel and Bronze ~ HOTD

Ch 11 - The comforts of home

HOTD x Targaryen!OC, Targaryen!OC x Harwin Strong

Warnings: This chapter includes physical violence, attempted SA, sl*t shaming, threats of SA, cursing, and descriptions of the inflicted wounds; but I swear the first half is cute 😭

HOTD masterlist

"In 114 AC, Princess Rhaenyra started her royal tour with the goal of finding a potential husband. She first toured the Crownlands and the Reach. She then visited the Westerlands and the Riverlands. Her next stop would be the Stormlands and after that, the Vale.

During that time, her cousin, Princess Daena, returned to her birthplace of Runestone. She was joined by Ser Harwin Strong, her new personal guard, and his sisters, Hanna and Joy who were the Princess's maids.

In the Princess's entourage was also her grandmother, Lady Rowena Redfort, a famed beauty throughout the Vale, during her youth. But beauty was not the only asset she possessed - a sharp tongue and a quick mind is also something she passed on to her daughter and granddaughter."

(Fire & Blood, Being a History of the Targaryen Kings of Westeros, by Archmaester Gyldayn)

~

On a peninsula east of the Eyrie, north of the Bay of Crabs and Gulltown, lies the castle of Runestone - the seat of House Royce. They were a proud and noble house and one of the oldest and most powerful families in the Vale of Arryn. 

The current ruler of Runestone was Lady Rhea Royce, daughter of the late Lord Yorbert Royce and Lady Rowena Redfort, wife of Prince Daemon Targaryen, and mother to Princess Daena. 

In her entourage were her ladies-in-waiting, Joy and Hanna, her grandmother, Lady Rowena, and her sworn protector, Ser Harwin. She was very excited to show the Vale to the Strong siblings, seeing they were from the Riverlands. 

~

114 AC, Runestone

Harwin watched in amazement as they neared the castle of Runestone. It was situated on the western shore of the Narrow Sea, was seated on the cliffside, and hills surrounded it. It was nowhere near as big as Harenhall but it was still a large, well-made keep.

It was a bright, sunny day, though it was also pretty windy. The castle gates were open and he could see the Royce banners flapping in the wind. The guards at the entrance let them in and they entered the outer courtyard. 

He was on his horse while the Princess, her grandmother, and his sisters were in the carriage. He saw someone who could only be Lady Rhea standing in the middle of the yard - she was a comely woman with dark, curly hair that was cut short. She was wearing the famous bronze armor of House Royce and riding breeches. Her brown eyes bore into his blue ones, almost like she was sizing him up. She moved toward him once he got off his horse.

"You must be Ser Harwin. Be welcome." She greeted politely.

"I am. Thank you for your hospitality and for hosting me and my sisters."

"Of course. I have heard so much about you and your sisters. I know how fond my daughter is of your family."

Harwin couldn't help but smirk at her words. His sisters have indeed bonded with the Princess and quickly became good friends. As for him, he cannot deny that he too quickly became fond of the Princess. They became even closer once she named him as her protector.

"Mother!" The Princess exclaimed once she exited the carriage and sprinted toward her lady mother. She hugged her mother tightly and placed her head on her mother's shoulders. It reminded Harwin of his late lady mother and how she held his little sisters when they were young. 

"Oh, my sweet girl. Look at you! You're a woman grown!" Lady Rhea said, cupping her daughter's face. The last time Rhea saw her, Daena was 12. Now she was 16. 

"You cut your hair! You didn't tell me!" Daena exclaimed surprised. Lady Rhea laughed. She looked Daena up and down, clearly very proud and happy that her only child was back home. 

Then, Lady Rowena stepped out of the carriage. Lady Rhea hugged her mother and kissed her hand. "Mother."

Lady Rowena was happy to be back in the Vale as well. Harwin watched as grandmother, mother, and daughter held hands and happily talked with each other. It was beautiful, seeing the three women together. He knew how much the Princess missed her mother and how much she wanted to leave King's Landing. 

It was strange, the Princess at first glance shared no physical similarities with her mother or grandmother. But on further inspection, Harwin could see she had the same nose as her grandmother and the same curly hair her mother did, except hers were silver. She was also the tallest one out of the three and had the fairest skin.

"Ser Harwin. Come. Let's go inside." The voice of his Princess brought him back to reality. He looked at her and she chuckled at his dazed expression. He loved the sound of her voice, especially her laughter. 

"Come on." She repeated softly and he followed her inside. 

~

115 AC

For the past eight months, Daena has been staying at Runestone, her birthplace. With Rhaenyra going on tour, she had no real reason to stay in King's Landing. So, quickly after Rhaenyra went on her royal tour, Daena too left the Red Keep.

Today was a special day - it was Daena's 17th name day. And luckily for her, she would be able to celebrate with her family and friends. She was disappointed Nyra wasn't here, but she already received a letter from her. Last she heard of her cousin, Nyra was in the Riverlands where she made a stop at Riverrun and was heading for the Stormlands.

She also received a letter from her father. She hasn't seen him since the egg incident on Dragonstone years ago. Then he went on to participate in a war in the Stepstones. She didn't know where he was, but he wished her a happy name day and that she shouldn't worry about him. He wrote he would soon visit. She wanted to believe it was true. 

~

"Don't move!" Amanda scolded Daena as she braided her hair. Daena chuckled but stopped moving. She couldn't help herself, she was excited to go out and celebrate. She played with her heart-shaped pendant; she decided to wear it to feel closer to her father. 

"You should rest. Not stand for hours braiding my hair." Daena said as she looked at Amanda's swollen belly. Amanda fell pregnant a couple of weeks before Daena's arrival. She was now over 8 months pregnant and the maester predicted she would give birth in the next couple of weeks.

Amanda just waved her hand. "Nonsense. I am braiding your hair because I want to. You are a woman grown and today is a special day. I want you to look perfect. Maybe you catch the eye of a handsome lord." She said suggestively.

"I don't know what you're talking about," Daena replied, rolling her eyes and Amanda chuckled. 

"Oh? Let me be more specific then. A tall, handsome lord with dark curls who happens to come from the Riverlands and is currently our guest." 

"No. No idea who you're talking about." Daena said, looking at her nails. 

Amanda clicked her tongue and chuckled. "He fancies you, you know." This made Daena stiffen her back and turn her head. 

"He does. It's obvious as day." Amanda added as she tied the last braid. 

Daena looked at herself in the mirror - she wore a stunning gown made of velvet and silk; the top was made of red velvet with long cape sleeves and a square neckline while the skirt was made of black silk. A big, chunky belt made of silver and decorated with rubies hung on her hips. Amanda masterfully braided her silver hair. Multiple braids connected at the back into a bun while the rest flowed down her shoulders.

Daena smirked, pleased with her appearance. She then added golden ruby earrings. 

"One more thing," Amanda said, handing her a mermaid-shaped perfume bottle. It was a gift she received from her grandmother. Lady Rowena imported it from Lys. Daena smelled it - it was a sweet, heady scent. She could smell lemon and spice-flower and cinnamon. 

Amanda took it from her and applied it to Daena's neck, behind her ears, and her wrists. "There. When he bends down to talk to you, he'll be hit with this lovely fragrance. You'll have him wrapped around your little finger by the end of the night." 

"Amanda!" Daena exclaimed, embarrassed. She sighed and shook her head. Why did everyone have to tease her about Harwin? Giving herself one final look, she exited her room and walked toward the Central Hall, ready to sweep the strongest knight in the Seven Kingdoms off his feet.

Harwin was in the Central Hall of Runestone where the feast in honor of the Princess's name day was being held. He was standing and talking with his sisters when the door opened. 

Princess Daena walked in and Harwin's heart skipped a beat. She wore a beautiful red and black gown that fit her body perfectly and her silver hair flowed down her back. She was a goddess in a mortal body, he thought as she greeted her mother. 

She then locked eyes with him and he felt his breath being taken away. She then proceeded to walk up to him. "Ser Harwin." She greeted him in her usual melodic voice. 

"Princess." He greeted back and before he could say more he was hit with a sweet, heady smell. It was heavy and it made his head spin, but he didn't pull back. No. He leaned in, wanting to be closer to her. 

He looked into her lilac eyes and could see a spark of mischief in them. She tilted her head and smirked at him. "I hope you enjoy yourself tonight, Ser." And with that, she left, her hips swaying from side to side. Harwin was mesmerized.

"Brother." The voice of his sister brought him back. Joy looked at him with a raised brow. He cleared his throat, embarrassed that he was caught off guard. 

But when he looked back, the Princess was still looking at him. 

This was going to be an interesting night indeed.

~

The moon was now high in the sky, but the castle of Runestone was still brimming with life. Daena was having the time of her life - talking with her friends, dancing, and feasting. She even danced with Harwin. It was exhilarating; being so close to him, feeling his breath on her skin, his eyes never leaving her face, hands barely touching. She was a blushing mess by the end of it.

She was also drunk for the first time in her life. Or maybe she was just really tipsy. She wasn't sure. She decided to get some fresh air and walked to the outer courtyard. The cool night air felt wonderful against her hot skin as she stumbled to a small garden in the back of the castle. 

In the middle of the garden was a heart tree; it wasn't a weirwood but a great oak. Nonetheless, it commanded respect and the carved face was not any less creepy. It always unnerved Daena, especially when she was a child. Though, in her drunken state, she paid it no mind. She sat on a small wooden bench next to the tree. 

"Princess? What are you doing here?" An unfamiliar male voice asked. Daena turned around to see a young man. She couldn't remember his name or his house but she recognized his face; He was one of many lords who tried wooing her tonight. She politely rejected all of them - her heart was already set on someone. 

"Oh, I just wanted some fresh air. That's all." Daena replied politely but kept her distance. 

Unfortunately for her, he didn't keep his distance. He came closer and sat next to her. She was immediately hit with the stench of alcohol. She moved away discreetly.  "Ser, please. Leave me alone." 

"You looked so beautiful tonight, Princess. A true...V-Valyrian beauty." He slurred. She gave him no reaction and just sighed. 

He then proceeded to grab her hand and pull it toward his breeches. Disgusted, Daena tried pulling away but he was stronger and harshly twisted her hand. She gasped in pain. 

"A silver-haired beauty and a silver-haired whore." He hissed. Daena angrily pulled her hand away and pushed him. She quickly stood up and distanced herself. 

"How dare you talk to me that way!? My uncle, the King, will have your head for these words!" She exclaimed, offended. Who was he to talk to her that way? What was he even talking about? 

"You don't think I noticed? You rejected every lord who approached you save for that brute from the Riverlands. What would your uncle say when he learned his niece was throwing herself to men like a common whore?  You're nothing but-" He insulted further but was cut off by a fierce slap across his face. 

"HOW DARE YOU!? I'LL FEED YOUR BODY TO VERMITHOR MYSELF AND I'LL BURN YOUR HOUSE DOWN! YOU DARE QUESTION MY VIRTUE!?" 

He looked at her stunned, surprised that she would slap him. He moved closer to her and under the moonlight she could see that the rings on her hand caused him to bleed. He grabbed her long hair and harshly pulled it. He pushed her toward the heart tree and blocked her with his arms. 

"LET ME GO! NOW! LET ME GO!" She yelled but he covered her mouth with his hand. She did the obvious thing and bit his fingers harshly. He cursed and grabbed her neck, choking her in the process. Fear began to set into her heart. Gods, spare me, she thought as her eyes began to water. 

She usually carried a small dagger on her person, but she didn't think she would need it tonight. Oh, how wrong was she. She kicked him between his legs and this allowed her to run away from him. She didn't get far. 

He grabbed one of her long sleeves and pulled her back. He held her tightly and ripped the upper part of her gown, exposing the chemise she wore underneath. 

"GUARDS! GUARDS!" She remembered to yell again. He covered her mouth again and continued ripping her gown. She was desperately thrashing, trying to push him off her body. 

"You little slut! You dare hit me! I'll show you-" Before he could finish his threat, he was harshly pulled from Daena. In the darkness of the night, she could barely see who came to her rescue.

Before she could say anything, the man was getting beaten to the ground. The horrible sound of bones breaking made her realize who it was - Harwin. 

"HARWIN! STOP! STOP IT, PLEASE! YOU'LL KILL HIM!" She yelled but the knight made no effort to stop. He continued beating the man's face. 

"What is the meaning of this?" Her grandmother's voice rang through the night air and made everyone stop. 

Her mother, Joy, Hanna, Amanda, and the castle guards also came. Her mother was quickly by her side, covering her with a shawl. The women led Daena back into the castle while the guards dealt with Harwin and the assailant. 

She didn't even realize when she started crying. 

That night, no one slept. Daena was in too much shock to do anything besides crying. She felt horrible. She felt disgust, anger, and guilt. She felt...sullied. Why? Why did she leave the feast by herself? The only thing on her mind was Harwin. He was the one who saved her, the one who protected her virtue and defended her honor. She wanted to see him, to talk to him. 

Rhea and Rowena, with the help of Joy, Hanna, and Amanda, managed to get Daena to open up and tell them what transpired; all the vile insults that were hurled at her and how she tried defending herself. Rhea was infuriated that someone dared attack her daughter in her home. 

"I shall write to Lady Jeyne Arryn and His Grace. This miscreant will be dealt with. Either he loses his head or I'll have him sent to the Wall! I shall not settle for anything less." Rhea announced, determined to get justice for her only child and heir. 

Daena refused to let the castle's maester inspect her body. She wanted no man near her or her body. After some persuading, she let the castle's septa, Arabella, look at her wounds. Her neck was red and bruises started appearing alongside her jaw and arms, her left wrist was sprained and she had scratch marks on her shoulders. 

Lady Rowena was pained to see her granddaughter in such a hysterical state; she ordered the measter to make some tea and put milk of the poppy in it. The twins were sad their Princess was so viciously assaulted and they did everything they could to help Daena. 

~

"You should rest now, my lord," Maester Cerion said to Harwin as he finished bandaging Harwin's hand. The measter left and Harwin was finally alone. He sighed and looked at his bandaged hand; he beat the idiot's face so hard it caused his knuckles to start bleeding. But he would do it all over again if it meant his dear Princess was safe.

A couple of minutes after the Princess left, Harwin had a weird feeling in his gut telling him something was wrong. To his horror, once he walked outside he heard screaming and shouting from afar. He barely made it to the godswood, just as the miscreant was about to tear the Princess's gown completely. 

Rest was the last thing on Harwin's mind; the only thing he could think about was Daena. From what he's been told, the measter has given her milk of the poppy to calm her down. Every time he closed his eyes he saw her terrified face, her lilac eyes wide with horror and shock.

He felt awful and extremely guilty he wasn't there to protect her.  That was his job, to be her protector and he couldn't even do that. Would she dismiss him from her service? Would she banish him to Harenhall? Would she yell at him and curse him out?

A knock on the door banished such thought from his mind. It was Hanna. She gently closed the door and sat next to him. Her eyes appeared to be red and glossy, which was unusual for her since Hanna was the more aloof one of the sisters. 

"How is she?" He asked desperate to know. Hanna shook her head and sighed. 

"She...there are bruises all over her body and her wrist appears to be sprained. But the measter said it would heal and she's not in any danger. She just needs rest." 

Harwin could feel his heart breaking; his darling Princess, his sweet angel bruised and battered. All because of him. How could he ever look into her eyes? How could he ever come back from this? He felt a great sense of shame wash over him.

"Harwin...It's not your fault." His sister said softly. "She doesn't blame you." 

This made Harwin look up. "She doesn't?" 

Hanna chuckled. "Of course not. The only thing she talked about while she was awake was whether you were alright. You were the only thing on her mind."

His sister picked up his bandaged hand. "Are you alright? You almost beat him to a pulp." 

"I would've if I wasn't interrupted." 

Hanna clicked her tongue, obviously not pleased with his words. "Look. It's been a very eventful night. Rest and try to get some sleep. You know she would want that." 

And with that, she left and Harwin was once again left alone with his thoughts. The last thing on his mind before he fell asleep was Daena. 

***

This was a very sad, angsty chapter. Our poor Daena was attacked and on her birthday no less 😔 Next chapter we'll see how people in KL react to this horrifying news.

Thank you for reading! 💕💕💕

If you have any opinions/questions feel free to ask.

[goodqueenaly]

I saw that House of the Dragon in their podcast named Alicent's mother as Alerie Florent. Any thoughts on that? The Florents do seem to have bad luck in wars.

I’m still not talking about HotD, but it’s funny you mention this because I meant to make a post about it (and then completely forgot). You can find the interview here and the clip here specifically mentioning the name.

Anyway, the reason I wanted to mention it is not to praise this show but rather to bemoan the fact that a non-canon (to the books) TV show seems more interested in the identity of a female character, no matter how relatively minor, than GRRM himself has with various female characters of ASOIAF. I’m not saying I necessarily expected F&B to identify Alicent Hightower’s mother (although it’s not like I wouldn’t have liked it to), and in the vast annals of awfulness representing F&B’s treatment of female characters, Alicent Hightower’s mother’s lack of presence or even name may seem relatively low on the scale of offensiveness. Yet what bothers me deeply is the startling disregard GRRM has shown more than once in failing to identify female characters, or indeed failing to treat some female characters as more than walking wombs. The reigning yet unnamed Princess of Dorne is an infamous example; “Lady Stark, she died” - that is, Lyarra Stark, the wife of Rickard - is another. (Need I remind anyone that he sarcastically and yet totally inaccurately compared her to Aragorn’s actually named mother?) Quellon Greyjoy gets a detailed biography, but his wives don’t even get first names; Hoster Tully’s wife Minisa and Jon Arryn’s wives Rowena and Jeyne are only identifiable by their dynasties and the manners of their deaths. Nor did F&B go any real way toward solving this problem: Alaric Stark gets plenty of backstory and screentime, but his supposedly beloved Mormont wife doesn’t even have a first name; Rogar Baratheon’s first wife is only mentioned as an anonymous corpse already in the ground; Rodrik Arryn’s nameless first wife dies early enough for creep Rodrik to prey on Daella; Unwin Peake’s nameless adolescent daughter only exists to be raped and die in childbirth. 

I don’t mention all this to say GRRM is a terrible writer, or hates female characters. Far from it! It’s precisely because I think GRRM is an extremely good writer, including with respect to female characters, that I find myself so disappointed when he shows such lack of regard in this area. In the 10+ years since GRRM began focusing in-depth on the Dance of the Dragons, there have been two novellas about this civil war, a world book describing in part this civil war, and an entire “related work” history of (the first roughly century and a half of) House Targaryen, with multiple chapters about this civil war expanding upon those novellas - yet it took the showrunner of a TV show adapting the F&B narrative of the Dance to care enough about Alicent’s mother to name her. I don’t know that this show is going so far as to give any personality or character to the dead figure of “Alerie Florent” (and again, I really don’t care about anything this show does), but even the showrunner mentioning that Alicent wants to remember her mother in prayers is more than we readers can say about, for example, Ned Stark’s relationship with his mother, or Catelyn’s with hers. GRRM’s lack of attention to or indeed interest in the identity of yet another female character, over the course of tens of thousands of words he’s written about the Dance era, stands in sharp and frankly unflattering contrast compared to even the passing mention of this figure allowed by the showrunner of a TV series which, by its nature, might have every incentive to be more streamlined about such details. 

(Once again, I’m not posting about HotD and I’m not inviting anyone to use this post to talk about HotD, because those conversations are getting blocked by me. This is me using a news story related to HotD to comment on GRRM’s writing.)

[talestold-a]

the race was incredible to watch, cheering infectious as horses sped by, even if participants were only in sight for a few moments. rowena knew how to ride on horseback but not anywhere near as well as those in the competition. she had no issue with horses but preferred other means of transport, hence a great lack of practice. with the events of the day coming to an end, she begins her way back to her lodgings where ryon is napping. there is a sudden thud with a woman's voice that strikes rowena as odd and she turns to spot the aftermath of the lady's trip. " are you all right, lady serra ? that sounded quite painful, " she is already offering her hands to help lift the woman up, trying to see if they will need to find the maester.

𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐍  𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐑  ,  after  the  race  .

what  a  glorious  race  ,  thought  the  siren  of  gulltown  as  she  watched  finishers  cross  the  line  .  she  envied  them  ,  wishing  she  hadn't  been  too  chicken  to  take  part  herself  .  though  she  doubted  she  would've  been  much  competition  -  at  least  against  the  challengers  here  .  with  a  delighted  sigh  she  left  her  seat  ,  seeking  shade  and  sweet  refreshments  to  parch  her  thirst  . hands clasped together , thumb of her left hand rubbing along the length of jagged scar on her right palm . almost lost in her own mind , she did not watch her step as heel of her shoe caught in a dip in the ground --- causing her to lurch forward and hit the ground on her hands and knees . ❝ gods , how embarrassing , ❞ she groaned as she adjusted her position to lift her hands and brush dirt from her palms .

[coldraindropsss]

Jeyne Royce, Rowena Arryn Lysa Tully

[horizon-verizon]

List of Non-Targ Westerosi In*cest Marriages

Tywin Lannister x Joanna Lannister (1st cousins)

-- Issue: Cersei, Jaime, and Tyrion

Rickard Stark x Lyarra Stark (1st cousins)

-- Issue: Brandon, Eddard "Ned", Lyanna, Benjen

Cregan Stark x Lynara Stark (just says "distant cousins")

-- Issue: Jonnel, Edric, Lyanna, Barthogan, Brandon

Serena Stark x Edric Stark (uncle-niece)

-- Issue: Cregard, Torrhen, Arrana, Aregelle

Sansa Stark x Jonnel Stark (uncle-niece)

-- Issue: NONE

Paxter Redwyne x Mina Tyrell (1st cousins)

-- Issue: Horas, Hobber, Desmera

Samantha Tarly x Lyonel Hightower (previously step mother-stepson)

-- Issue: 6 unknown children, all illegitimately born before their marriage

POSSIBLE CLOSE RELATIONS (exact degrees unknown)

Jon Arryn x Rowena Arryn

-- Issue: NONE

Shella Whent x Walter Whent

-- Issue: 4 unknown sons & 1 unknown daughter

Benfrey Frey x Jyanna Frey

-- Issue: Della & Osmund

Alys Frey x Jared Frey

-- Issue: Tytos & Kyra

[talestold-a]

the plan was only to look, no buying - but as rowena passed stall after stall, she began to put a backup plan into action. perhaps she could cave on one piece, regardless of whatever is chosen in the end. maybe even something small for ryon. her hands are held behind her back as if it will help, eyeing the collection the merchant had for sale. once finished, rowena waits silently by cassia to see if anything has caught their eye. as the jewelry is passed, she looks curiously at the jade bracelet, thinking the color is quite beautiful. " how can this small rock have so many benefits ? " the lady arryn questions, brows furrowed. she grins at the kind offer but gives a quick shrug. " something he cannot lose ? impossible, " she holds the piece up to let light shine through the jade. " do you have a favorite ? i will keep an eye out, "

⸻ 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 ︵ : rowena arryn + cassia upcliff. ⸻ 𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠 ︵ : @talestold

cassia  turned  the  jade  bracelet  over  in  the  palms  of  their  hands  ,  casting  a  critical  gaze  over  the  piece  .  with  the  scammed  gold  that  they  had  gotten  in  king's  landing  ,  she  had  gone  to  the  merchants'  stalls  with  no  thought  as  to  what  they  wanted  aside  from  to  spend  a  few  dragons  and  not  allow  them  to  continue  to  burn  a  hole  in  the  bottom  of  their  coin  purse  .  “  they  claim  to  have  many  benefits  to  jade  .  wealth  ,  longevity  ,  peace  ,  ”  cass   mused   before  passing  the  jewelry  over  to  rowena  .  “  it's  not  my  favorite  ,  but  it  may  make  a  nice  accessory  for  you  or  for  ryon  if  it  is  recast  into  something  more  suitable  for  him  to  not  be  able  to  lose  .  ”

[talestold-a]

closed starter for jessamyn royce on day five, @xfulminare.

though rowena had planned shortly after house arryn arrived that a beach day could be a fun event, as the days went on, a wine tasting felt much more her speed. ryon was being watched by his governess and she would have a day to herself if nothing else. she makes a face as she sips from a goblet, only a sip for tasting thankfully, the tartness unpleasant. considering failure with the third drink she's disliked, rowena begins to wander aimlessly. she easily spots jessamyn a couple steps away and has to control herself not to rudely interrupt their conversation. once she is able to see a pause, she has no issue inserting herself with a smile stretching ear to ear. " jessa ! i seem to have forgotten how sweet wines could be... ugh, not for me. any luck with your tasting ? "

[butterflies-dragons]

Jon Arryn a father figure to Ned who raised hima and Robert as his sons. He tried to protect them from Aerys wrath. Jon married three times in ASOIAF. The first one was his cousin Rowena Arryn, second was Jeyne Royce and third one was red haired Lysa Tully. He had a child named Robert with Lysa. According to Catelyn, Lysa looked radiant on her wedding day.

Ned disguised Lyanna's son Jon as his bastard son to protect him from King Robert's wrath. He grew up with his cousins in WF.

In original outline Jon is supposed to have romance with his Stark cousin sister Arya which is most probably now his radiant red hair sister Sansa. So if Jonsa happened then it will be Jon marrying his Tully cousin like Jon Arryn.

More parallels/similarities in the first part of this post:

[myimaginationplain]

The Best Possible Names for fem!Jon Snow (In My Personal Opinion)

I understand perfectly well why it's so common for fem!Jon to be given other Jo– names like Jocelyn, Joann[e/a], Joan, etc. They make it immediately obvious that this girl is meant to be a distaff Jon Snow, rather than an OC. However, I don't really like these Jon-derivatives for the simple fact that they don't take into consideration why Jon was named so in the first place; Jon was named as tribute to Jon Arryn, just as Robb was named in tribute to Robert Baratheon. Plain & simple. So it follows to reason that even as a girl, fem!Jon would be named in honor of someone who was personally significant to Eddard. That being said, under no circumstances would fem!Jon have been named Lyanna. Or anything harkening to Lyanna. No Lyanna Snow, no Lyarra Snow, not Lyanne, not Lyra. None of that. In canon, Eddard put a shit ton of work into making sure no one could possibly connect Jon to Lyanna. Even if the name wouldn't actually be suspicious to any outside observers, I doubt that Ned would ever want to encourage that connection. So, no Lya– names for her. All of that long-winded preamble being said, here are the names I like best:

Jeyne: If Jon were a girl, this is by far the most realistic name for her, on several levels. "Jeyne" not only preserves the whole "John Doe" thing GRRM has going on with Jon ("Jon Snow" is to "John Doe" as "Jeyne Snow" is to "Jane Doe"), but also serves as a sort of slant-tribute to Jon Arryn, considering the fact that his first wife was named Jeyne. Plus, it even preserves the J from Jon! So yeah, all things considered, Jeyne is probably the most sensical choice...although, it's not actually my favorite. Sonically & aesthetically, I just find it kind of boring. Which is, in fact, the point, as I'll reiterate. But it just doesn't roll off the tongue the way "Jon Snow" does. So, Jeyne is the most sensible, but least lyrical choice.

Rowena: Like Jeyne, this name also serves as a slant-tribute to Jon Arryn, since his second wife was named Rowena. Plus, I imagine that this name may have more personal significance for Eddard, since he probably would have met Lady Rowena during his wardship in the Vale, whereas Lady Jeyne had in all likelihood already passed. I'm very fond of this name in particular because I think it's the perfect balance between canon precedent & unique, lyrical naming. If there must be a "best" choice, I think this one is it. (But still not my favorite!)

Robyn: I think it's pretty obvious that this name would be tribute to Robert, ala Robb. The only real issue is that this name strays from the Jon Arryn association, but that's fine, honestly. And wouldn't it be cute for Robb & fem!Jon's names to match? Like twins. It would drive Catelyn insane, lol.

Branw[e/y]n: Now, this name. This name is my favorite. It loses a few points for never having been used in canon before, but I feel that can be forgiven because of how well it fits in (especially the spelling that used a y). This name would be in tribute to Brandon, making it the only alternative name on the list which references any of Eddard's family. (Could the name "Branda" serve the exact same purpose? Yes. Has the name Branda, unlike Branwen, actually been used in canon, & by House Stark no less? Yes. Do I like the name Branda? No, I do not. So I'm not mentioning it, lol.) Beyond that, most of my affinity for this name is aesthetic & thematic. "Branwen" means "white raven," which I probably don't have to explain the significance of as it pertains to ASOIAF. And in Welsh myth, Branwen was sister to king Brân...do you see where I'm going with this? The biggest obstacle for this name is that I honestly don't know if Ned would've been creative enough to name her it, lol.