We have updated our Community Code of Conduct. Please read through the new rules for the forum that are an integral part of Paradox Interactive’s User Agreement.
You are using an out of date browser. It may not display this or other websites correctly. You should upgrade or use an alternative browser.
They definitely plotted treason together in the Stepstones. More material though is that they murdered uncle Aemorys together, and I think they were both involved in the attempted murder of Jaekar Trendfyre? Though that second one might have been Aelor actung alone.
he arguably defended himself verbally even better, managing to spin the whole story convincingly and pin it all on poor dead Matarys. Including his first escape from his imprisonment, rather than ratting out Vaeron, which was at least one small nice thing he did I suppose, in a twisted kinda way.
Yeah, I think Aelor was never going to rat out Vaeron, as he is the only surviving brother he has any sort of affection for. It has been interesting writing Aelors dynamic with Matarys and Vaeron, on the one hand they were ''friends'' in game, on the other I have kind of shown this friendship to be very onesided and manipulative as far as Aelor is concerned, with that being said, he definately did Vaeron a solid and basically settled the matter of his escape, and that was on purpose.
Valerion finally has what he wanted (or at least one item on the very long list of things he wants) and is Lord Paramount of the Stepstones. I worry that Aurion giving him a blank check to purge the islands of surviving pirates will come back to bite him in the ass, especially with Maelys simultaneously deploying Balaeron to the Stepstones to try and keep Valerion under watch. Seems like the headeache over those islands never really ends lol.
I love the inclusion of a recommended soundtrack! The "production value" of this AAR never fails to improve or impress. And a great choice of song for the scene too!
Thank you! It may be something I do more for specific scenes, part of the music I listen to when I write is the game of thrones/ house of the dragon soundtrack.
The fact that he lost Chaste baffles only in that I'm shocked he even had it in the first place considering he and Alicent had been pumping kids out like jackrabbits.
Yeah, im glad that trait is gone as it didnt really mesh very well with their circumstances, I thought it was interesting that it was lost very soon after fire-obsessed was gained however.
As for Fire-obsessed... I mean it's hardly ever a *great* sign in a Targaryen king lol, but for the time being at least he's not cruel or a lunatic so hopefully it doesn't graduate beyond a relatively harmless fascination...
Good analysis...I view it the same way as not meaning too much on its own, but if he gains the lunatic trait...thats a different story, I would both love and hate that as a writer, would be interesting for sure and I do have some ideas if it happens, but it would be sad to see Aurion fall into a mad king type role (all I will say is Aelor better hope Aurion doesnt get the lunatic trait....)...With all that being said, it can be hard to keep good rulers ''good'' as the game goes on, negative stuff can find its way in, and Aurion will be no different as he ages...to what extent this goes, ill leave that to be seen
I have managed to get back up to date again with your epic tale, which has grown into one of the great narratives I have read on the CK2 boards. I won’t rehash the previous episodes, but rather strike out anew with this latest setting Aurion and the realm find themselves in.
They definitely plotted treason together in the Stepstones. More material though is that they murdered uncle Aemorys together, and I think they were both involved in the attempted murder of Jaekar Trendfyre? Though that second one might have been Aelor actung alone.
Wolf explained it very well. Yes, they did murder their uncle Aemorys in the Stepstones, as he was very loyal to Aurion, argurably his greatest ally and a threat to their ambitions. They also did attempt to kill Jaekar Tendfyre together, though that was mostly spurred on by Aelor who wanted to get rid of another claimnant.
-To All: Thank you for the likes/comments. I have played ahead to around the year 143 AC, and have a general idea of how I want to move forward, though the next chapter (titled Of Peace, Plague, and Progresses) will be kind of a ''write and see'' type chapter. In all honesty, the story is entering a fairly quiet, almost boring segment as not much happened (though Aurion and Co. could use a break). I would say the next chapter may be similar to the ''Flames of Death'' in which a long time period will be covered mostly through history book style writing and multiple chapter parts, though there will be some POV chapters mixed in, with some from Valerion, Aurion, multiple for Vaeron and maybe others. I did play to the next big event however.
-To All: Thank you for the likes/comments. I have played ahead to around the year 143 AC, and have a general idea of how I want to move forward, though the next chapter (titled Of Peace, Plague, and Progresses) will be kind of a ''write and see'' type chapter. In all honesty, the story is entering a fairly quiet, almost boring segment as not much happened (though Aurion and Co. could use a break). I would say the next chapter may be similar to the ''Flames of Death'' in which a long time period will be covered mostly through history book style writing and multiple chapter parts, though there will be some POV chapters mixed in, with some from Valerion, Aurion, multiple for Vaeron and maybe others. I did play to the next big event however.
Specifically wanted to pop in to send my congratulations for this AAR placing in the tabulation for one of the best Quarter 3 AARs in the ACA competition (AARland Choice Awards). Glad to see others supporting your work too. I definitely voted to honor your work. Great to see you listed among those who placed.
Oh boy a Targaryen king obsessed with fire? We're not even close to a three hundred year Targaryen reign! I hope none of his heir's heirs pull a funny and kidnap a Northern lady because oh boy that's gonna be a problem.
3
Reactions:
World Map Update: Lord Paramouncy of the Stepstones
History: The Stepstones have long been known as a haven for pirates, smugglers, and marauders, and have constituted the wild ‘’frontier’’ of the Westerosi for well over a hundred years, with the pirate kingdoms of the islands entering into dozens of engagements, raids and wars with Westeros, beginning with Aegon the Conqueror's conquest of Sunstone in 13 AC, and at last being completed with King Aurions conquest of Last Refuge in 123 AC, at last ending the raids and bloodshed between the Targaryens and the Pirate Kingdoms, bloodshed which had left both lords and kingsguard dead in the long march towards the taming of the Stepstones. Westerosi domination of the Stepstones would not end the uncertainty in the region however, with the famed battle between King Aurion and Vhagar against his treasonous brother Matarys Seafyre and Narrah taking place above the waters of the narrow sea, showing the regions newly gained importance in the realms of Westeros. While the islands have long held a reputation for piracy in the eyes of the realm, as of the year 126 AC, most of the thinly populated islands are inhabited by poor yet hardy fisherfolk of Essosi stock, hailing from regions such as Pentos, Myr, and Tyrosh, though former pirates and their descendents still can be found in the island, especially in the newly conquered islands to the south, while the northern islands are more tame and civil, with many of the populace having taken to the faith of the seven. Shortly after the final conquests in the Stepstones, King Aurion bequeathed overlordship of the islands to his brother, Valerion Seafyre, Lord of the islands of Crabstone and Wreckstone, and the realms master of ships, with Valerion Seafyre becoming the first ‘’Lord Paramount’’ of the Stepstones, cementing the Stepstones as an official region of the Westerosi Kingdoms. The lords of the Stepstones are a diverse bunch, ranging from royal princes, descendents of pirates and great houses fallen low. While the Stepstones have many small fishing villages, the region lacks a true port city, though their position in the Narrow Sea grants the promise and right of tariffs and taxes on ships traveling between Essos and Westeros, as well as the benefit of being an important place to resupply.
Valerion Seafyre, younger brother of King Aurion and the first Lord Paramount of the Stepstones.
Principal Houses of the Stepstones
House Seafyre of Crabstone and Wreckstone, ‘’The Northern Seafyres’’
House Seafyre, established in the year 107 AC by Valerion Seafyre, would prove to be the first official cadet dynasty of House Targaryen, sovereigns of Westeros. Valerion Seafyre would first be granted the island of Crabstone , named in honor of Lord Tahaelor Celtigar who was killed by pirates off the island's shores. It would be on Crabstone that Prince Valerion would take the name Seafyre in honor of the House of the Dragons expansion onto this new frontier, and the drafty wooden and stone castle left behind by the pirates would soon come to be known as ‘’Seafyre Hall’’, the foremost stronghold of the Seafyres of the North. In time, following the failed rebellion of Aelor and Matarys Seafyre, younger brothers of KingAurion and Valerion, the island of Wreckstone would also come into the possession of Lord Paramount Valerion Targaryen. The Northern Seafyres are considered to be the most powerful house in the region, largely stemming from Valerions Seafyre’s position as Lord Paramount of the Stepstones and protector of the northern and central islands of the region.
Seafyre Hall, Seat of Valerion Seafyre, Lord Paramount of the Stepstones, Protector of the Northern and Central Stepstones and Master of Ships
House Elesham of Nerrisa
The forebearers of the Eleshams of Nerrisa were once lords of the Vale, owning a small island castle north of the Fingers, before losing their land in a border war, though they would reclaim their status as landed nobility when King Vaemond the Strong granted them the island of Nerrisa in 46 AC. The island owes its name to the lady Nerrisa Reddune, who was kidnapped and held hostage by pirates until her death on the island. House Elesham and Castle Nerrisa directly swear their loyalty to Valerion Seafyre.
Castle Nerrisa, a poor and crumbling castle which still bears the scars of many previous raids
House Vunatis of Bloodstone
House Vunatis of Bloodstone is perhaps the only house hailing from Essosi stock which is sworn to the Westerosi Kingdoms. The forebearers of House Vunatis hailed from Lys and established a powerful pirate kingdom on Bloodstone before being driven out during the first campaign of King Vaemond the Strong. The island was initially granted to a younger son of the Reacher Lord Rowan. Despite the Vunatis family being expelled from the island, a one Jorys Vunatis was taken as a captive and then a squire of Orys Baratheon, the Lord Paramount of the Stormlands and half-brother of the Conqueror. Jorys Vunatis would fight alongside Orys Baratheon during the Lion's Rebellion against the rebels, being present at the man's death. He was rewarded for his loyalty by being granted his family's old ancestral seat in 44 AC by King Vaemond the Strong. While the current Lord Vunatis now rules as an anointed lord rather than a pirate, there are whispers that House Vunatis has not truly abandoned their pirate roots…….
House Vunatis is a direct bannerman to Lord Paramount Valerion Seafyre.
The Small Keep of Bloodstone, situated upon the highest hill in the region, the spikes on which the pirate lords of old impaled the skulls of their victims can still be seen atop the mortar towers.
House Seafyre of Narrahs Rest, ‘’The Southern Seafyres’’
While House Seafyre is in and of itself, a cadet branch of the House of the Dragon, it must be noted that there are distinctions to be made within House Seafyre as well. Whereas the current Lord Paramount of the Stepstones, Valerion Seafyre owes his title largely to the King, Aurion Targaryen, Balaeron Seafyre, the lord of Narah's Rest and head of what has come to be known as the ‘’Southern Seafyres’’ owes his title largely due to the efforts of the crown prince, Maelyx Targaryen. The island Narrahs Rest, which owes its name due to the discovery of the rotting head of the dragon Narrah upon its shore, is currently ruled by Prince Balaeron Targaryen, youngest brother of King Aurion and rider of the dragon Saphyre.
Balaeron Seafyre, Protector of the Southern Stepstones and Lord of Narrah's Rest, rider of the dragon Saphyre.
The small fortress of Narrahs Rest, it is said that the fort's portucculis was carved with dragon bone scavenged from the skull of the dragon Narrah, and the beast's horns were used in the construction of the Lords central chair in the main hall.
House Swygert of Deepstone
House Swygert of Deepstone is one of the newest houses to settle in the Stepstones, having suffered a fall from grace in a single generation, with the Lord Anders Swygert serving as Aurions Hand of the King, though after his death his son lost their ancestral lands in the Stormlands and was granted the island by King Aurion.
House Swygert are bannermen to Balaeron Seafyre.
The rock spires which surround the island of Deepstone like a shield, with Maesters believing the rocks may be hundreds of feet tall. These natural fortifications mean the island is well defended against any attempts to take it by force, but also pose a severe risk for traders and ships, meaning Deepstone is among the most sparsely populated of the islands, despite its large size.
House Florent of Flame Isle
House Florent was once one of the most powerful and prestigious houses in the Reach, yet like many other ruling houses in the Stepstones fell upon hard times when Ellard Tyrell seized Brightwater Keep, leaving the house landless and impoverished. King Aurion, recognizing the house's prestige gave them the newly conquered island of Flame Isle in 123 AC, though the castle is currently in disrepair due to being scorched by the dragon Vhagar during its conquest, hence the island's name.
House Florent is a bannerman of Balaeron Seafyre.
House Reddune of Sunstone
House Reddune is the oldest house in the Stepstones, having ruled over the island of Sunstone for over a century, and they are considered to be the second most powerful house in the region behind only the Seafyres in power and influence. The founder of House Reddune, Ser Neilyn Reddune was an anointed knight serving in the Dornish castle of Wyl, defending the castle against Aegon the Conqueror, yet gaining the Kings respect so much that after the conclusion of the war he was named the King's Justice, and after Aegon's death was granted the island of Sunstone by the Queen Regent Visenya Targaryen. Lord Neilyn Reddune would later be killed fighting alongside King Vaemond the Strong during the Lion's Rebellion.
The Castle of Sunstone, seat of Lord Myron Reddune, The Protector of the Western Stepstones. Sunstone is known to be one of the most defensible castles in the region. In addition, the warm climate and development of the island allows some measure of farming, a rarity on the Stepstones.
House Crakehall of Boar Isle
House Crakehall has long been a house known for their martial ability, with the Westerlander house providing multiple Kingsguard and Marshals in service to the crown. However, conflicts with the Lannisters of Casterly Rock saw their fortress of Crakehall revoked in 99 AC, leaving them landless until King Aurion granted the warrior house an island in the Stepstones, since known as Boar Isle. Boar Isle was briefly placed under siege by the forces of Aelor Seafyre during his failed rebellion.
House Crakehall swears loyalty to Myron Reddune, Lord of Sunstone and Protector of the Western Stepstones.
To All: I have gotten a little work done on the next chapter, unfortunately it will be a while until the next chapter is out as I have a Research Paper to write.....fun....in the meantime thought id quickly post this little summary of the newest Lord Paramountcy.
One thing I always found annoying in long games is that the traditional houses like Florent and Crakehall ends up losing their seat because of the stupidity of the AI (I mostly just chalk it up to committing absolute treason or getting too powerful than their liege ala the Manderlys before they fled to the North), good to know I am not the only one who tries and keep these displaced houses from going landless and extinct.
Great little refresher update full of info that I imagine will be extra relevant in the story’s immediate future. That little tidbit about House Vunatis still being surrounded by rumors of piracy in particular seems like something that could become a flashpoint of conflict once Valerion kicks off his next round of fire and brimstone purges. Especially if it gives him an excuse to seize another island for himself along the way…
Just in general the gradual development of the stepstones has been one of my favorite long-term features of this AAR. I imagine that to most players, myself included, conquering the Stepstones has become a bit of an unremarkable, repetitive slog of strait crossings and mashing the “convert faith in county” button. But you’ve managed to weave that process together into a great, focused narrative that ties it into the wider story and perfectly explains why each island was conquered when it was, which House wound up ruling it, and even how the islands were renamed over time as the plot developed. It’s such a great way to breathe life into a region that could otherwise easily be shallow and boring, and really gives the reader a reason to actually care about what’s going in there. Major kudos to you, and good luck with the research paper!
I find this annoying for sure, though I find the biggest culprit of houses losing traditional seats is bad marriages....luckily ck2 has a house customizer trait/event to change peoples houses, yet it is tedious to change it and I dont always catch it in time.
The answer to this is yes.....the disclaimer I have is I am not sure that one such conflict will ''make'' it into the story because it is hard to explain, but we will see....there will be another Seafyre introduced in the relatively near future of the story, and I can confirm Aelor Seafyre will have at least one more appearance.
That little tidbit about House Vunatis still being surrounded by rumors of piracy in particular seems like something that could become a flashpoint of conflict once Valerion kicks off his next round of fire and brimstone purges. Especially if it gives him an excuse to seize another island for himself along the way…
Just in general the gradual development of the stepstones has been one of my favorite long-term features of this AAR. I imagine that to most players, myself included, conquering the Stepstones has become a bit of an unremarkable, repetitive slog of strait crossings and mashing the “convert faith in county” button. But you’ve managed to weave that process together into a great, focused narrative that ties it into the wider story and perfectly explains why each island was conquered when it was, which House wound up ruling it, and even how the islands were renamed over time as the plot developed. It’s such a great way to breathe life into a region that could otherwise easily be shallow and boring, and really gives the reader a reason to actually care about what’s going in there. Major kudos to you, and good luck with the research paper!
Thank you, this is exactly what I was going for when I decided to severely limit and change the games focus away from expansion, I really did not expect taking the Stepstones to take 100 years, but there has been a lot of nice stories to come out of the wild frontier of Westeros, and there will be more to come.
-To All: I have finally finished my Research Paper and other assignments so for at least a while I will have some more free time, I have made decent progress on the first part of the next chapter Of Peace, Plagues and Progresses, I am unsure of how I will split it but the first part of the next chapter should be out within a week, likely with POV's from Valerion and Vaeron, with Aurion and a new character....Monford Velaryon, appearing later in the chapter.
2
1
Reactions:
Chapter 60: Of Peace, Plague, and Progresses (126-143 AC) (Valerion, Vaeron, Vaegon, Aurion, Monford Velaryon) (Part 1)
The years following Aelor Seafyres rebellion and the subsequent battle above the Stepstones saw a long peace fall over the realm, or as close to one as a realm the size of the Seven Kingdoms could achieve.
After several months of the Prince Maelyx Targaryen taking a forefront in ruling the realm, King Aurion had recovered sufficiently to resume his duties as King….. in the Red Keep at least, for the wound to his thigh would prevent him from traveling for an extended period.
Aurion returned to his responsibility as King with perhaps even greater diligence and vigor than ever, holding court for hours every day, ruling on matters great and small, hearing the petitions of great lords, merchants, and even the peasantry alike while sitting the Iron Throne. The King devoted so much time and effort to rulership that members of the court addressed their concern, but Aurion was unyielding in his resolve, turning to hard work to keep the death of his son Jaenar and his killing of his brother Matarys far from his mind.
Among the Kings first actions was to gift the brothers of the Night's Watch with a substantial gift of gold to fund the building of a small towerfort to be manned between Westwatch-by-the-Bridge and the Shadow Tower, with the request that the new fort be commanded by his old friend Harwin Umber, whom he had met and hunted with on one of his visits to Winterfell. The brothers of the Night's Watch welcomed this gift with open arms and Harwin Umber was made the commander of the new garrison of Giants Hunt.
Another of the King's decrees related to the Riverlands. Since the time of the conquest, the Riverlands had been considered more of a region than a true kingdom, but perhaps no region had benefited more from the stability and peace brought by the Targaryen conquest than the Riverlands, whos population had more than doubled since the time of the Conqueror, and the region held significant manpower and strong lordships.
King Aurion decreed that the Riverlands were to be declared the eighth Kingdom of the realm, while the Crownlands and the Stepstones would remain regions, though the term ‘’Seven Kingdoms’’ has never fully died and is often used to this day despite Aurions decree.
The final months of the year 126 AC saw the marriage between Aurions son Prince Maegor Targaryen, who would likely one day rule Oldstones and Lady Olene Tyrell, the sister of Norman Tyrell, take place.
The newly married Prince would not remain in the capitol long however, as Maegor quietly declared that he wished to provide for himself and his wife of his own efforts, traveling to the city of Volantis along with his wife to make his fortune, joining up with the Iron Shields as a paymaster.
The prince's time as a mercenary would prove to be short lived however, as after two uneventful years of looking over accounts in Volantis, with a few months of sweltering in a tent in the Summer Islands, his wife Olene Tyrell would become pregnant, and the two would leave Volantis and return to Westeros in time for the birth of their son, Raelor. Maegor, a quiet young man, would not return to his fathers court however, finding it far too crowded, and brought these concerns to his elder brother Maelyx, who found him, his dragon hatchling and his family a place in their uncle Balaerons small court in the Stepstones.
The final months of 126 AC would also see the end to the conflict in the Stormlands, as Ronal Baratheon would put down the rebellious Stormlords after several bloody battles, brutally executing many of those that had risen up against him, including the young Lord Errol, a boy of nine years old who was slain when Baratheon troops stormed his castle.
The King was furious when news of this reached him, but given the fact that the Lord of Storm's End denied ordering the killing and the Stormlands had technically not returned to the laws of the King's Peace since the outbreak of the Seafyre rebellion, there was little Aurion could do to punish Ronnal Baratheon, though the dislike between the two men was furthered.
Across the Narrow Sea, several events would take place which would be considered unfortunate to the Westerosi Kingdoms. For many years, the Braavosi court and Sealord had been under the influence of mercantilism factions, who advocated for peaceful trade as opposed to the expansion which had taken place under the rule of Sealord Yaaro Antaryon.
However, the bloody court war between the mercantilist faction and the more bellicose warmonger factions that had been raging for years finally came to a close after many assassinations, plots, and skullduggery….with the expansionists gaining victory and influence over the Sealord.
The more bellicose elements of the Braavosi freehold would not take long to make their first move, sending a Braavosi army south into the lands of the Free Sisters, whom they had aided just years prior, an army which seized the trading town of Long Lake on the Myrish Flatlands with little resistance, the entire campaign being done before Aurion could offer any objection.
The loss of this vital trading town would prove to be the final nail in the coffin for the Tyroshi-Myrish union as other neighbors sensed weakness like vultures to a corpse….namely the Serene Republic of Lys who had been forced to abandon their ambitions of annexing Tyrosh and Myr due to Westerosi interference…but the Lyseni had not forgotten their ambitions, and with Braavos expanding to the North, realized the need to strengthen their own position and declared war once again on the Free Sisters.
It is said that King Aurion strongly considered entering the war once again on the side of Tyrosh and Myr, but was eventually talked out of it by his small council who were all against intervention, including Prince Maelyx who disclosed that the Free Sisters were even weaker than they had been in the previous war, and advised his father that even if they managed to hold of the Lyseni, they would only be prolonging the inevitable.
So the King reluctantly stood down the order to send the Royal Fleet in aid of the Free Sisters, and only a short time later, the Lyseni entered Tyrosh as victorious conquers, returning slavery to Tyrosh 37 years after the city had liberated itself and putting an end to the Union of the Free Sisters.
The city of Tyrosh and its settlements in the disputed lands were annexed by Lys and slavery reinstituted in the city, though Myr was allowed to exist as a buffer state between Lys and the Braavosi Freehold to the north….the descendents of the rebellious slaves in Tyrosh wealthy enough to afford passage out of the city fled to Myr, but the majority were swiftly branded like their fathers and grandfathers and sold back into slavery, bringing a sad end to the short lived union of the Free Sisters.
The year 127 AC would also see further developments upon the Narrow Sea as Valerion Seafyre, Lord Paramount of the Stepstones and the King's younger brother moved to consolidate his reign…..
3rd Moon, 127 AC
Deck of Seafyre, Waters outside of Bloodstone
Valerion Seafyre paced the prow of the galley Seafyre, looking ahead as the faint outline of the shores of Bloodstone came into view in the distance.
‘’Here is far enough, signal the other captains.’’ Valerion demanded to his bannerman, who nodded his understanding and gave signal to the captains of Lady Jasonei, Red Flame, and Silver Bane….these galleys would be remain just off the coast of the island, the ships…and the dozens of heavily armed men they contained would remain out of sight to any on Bloodstone.
Now it is time to see which way this will go Valerion thought to himself as Seafyre cut through the choppy waters of the Stepstones, one look at the shore would be enough to give him his answer….if Vunatis suspected nothing he would find him waiting at the beach….and if he wasnt there…than this would become a much more interesting day.
Sensing movement, behind him, he turned and saw his eldest son and squire, Tychoros approaching, handing him his sword, which Valerion accepted with a grunt before eying the boy.
‘’When this begins you stay well back.’’ Valerion commanded.
‘’Im not afraid….’’ His son protested.
Valerion looked at the boy again. In some ways he saw an image of his younger self in his eldest son, like he had been as a boy, Tych was tall for his age with a head of short silver hair, and had the same attitude of reckless abandon and bravery he had once had.
The boy would make for a fine warrior of that there was little doubt, but Valerion feared the boy would not be much more than that, there was little subtlety or appreciation of any matters non-martial in the boy.
‘’You will do as I say.’’ Valerion said curtly, turning away from his son and facing the waters.
His conversation with his son and the boy's bravery reminded Valerion of himself, as recently as just a few years before he had been the same, leading the attack on the Lyseni galleys at the battle of Deepstone from the front rank where the danger was greatest.
As he aged however, this recklessness had begun to fade, as a younger man he had been eager to prove himself, but that had been when he had nothing to lose, now he was a Lord Paramount, one of the great lords of the realm, in title if not in strength.
As a younger, bolder man he had always thought it would be an inevitability that when his older brother Aurion died he would make a play for the throne, he had little to lose then, thinking about when he would press his claim, but in more recent years, the thinking had turned to if.
He had not entirely abandoned all hope, the images of himself ascending the conquers throne never far from his mind, perhaps the opportunity would arise, it was yet to be determined what sort of King his nephew Maelyx would make for, and if something were to happen to him before his inheritance Valerion could not imagine the young boy Taegar would be one who would inspire much loyalty.
And yet, truth be told, his was not a bad life, his seat of Seafyre Hall was a bit drafty and small to be sure, but it was richly adorned and decorated, he had accomplished much in his time since coming to the Stepstones as a boy of 17, winning many battles as the realms High Admiral and rising to the position of Lord Paramount, first overlord of the nascent Stepstones, even if he never took the throne, he had accomplished much, more than enough to be the type of man that was written in the history books and remembered, after all, Vaekar, the Prince of the Stepstones was still remembered and admired and Valerion had accomplished much more than his late kinsman ever had.
And yet…if he were to live out his days in the Stepstones, if no opportunity ever presented itself for the throne, changes needed to be made to the region, if this was to be his home and not just a step to the Iron Throne then any remnants of the previous owners needed to be erased, he would not have it said Valerion Seafyre allowed piracy in his realm to go unpunished….hence the reason for his visit to Bloodstone.
Valerion had never truly trusted House Vunatis of Bloodstone, the family was descended from Lyseni pirates after all, all of them scarcely better than criminals. He had once held a grudging tolerance for the late Lord Qarran Vunatis, who was hardworking and seemed an honest man, for a Lyseni at least, but that tolerance had ended when the man's grandson, Lord Zhorane Vunatis had inherited the island.
It was an odd situation, despite his Lyseni roots, it was said the man was a devout follower of the seven, pious and devoted. While there was certainly a growing population of poor fisherfolk on the islands who adhered to the faith of the seven, especially in the northern islands, there was still a sizeable population of the Stepstones who quietly adhered to a number of essosi faiths, not surprising since the vast majority of the islands were populated by poor fisherfolk of Pentoshi, Myrish, Lyseni and Tyroshi stock.
Zhorane Vunatis seemed to think that his devotion to the faith of the Seven gave him leave to abuse and exploit the fisherfolk who held to the faiths of their ancestors. For some time, Valerion had heard rumors that the man would round up fisherfolk and their families on Bloodstone who adhered to Essosi faiths, robbing and taking all their wealth while killing those that could not pay.
Valerion had been content to slowly gather information and evidence, he had permission from his brother to do what needed to be done, but even so he knew it would probably be for the best if he gave his brother evidence of the man's crimes, which was not particularly difficult to gain as Valerions spies reported that Vunatis openly boasted about these extortions in his keep.
His patient approach had ended however after events the previous month. Valerion, in addition to holding the island of Crabstone which was home to his seat of Seafyre Hall, also held the island of Wreckstone, which had been granted to him after his brother Matarys’s death. Wreckstone, unlike the northern islands which were predominantly populated by fisherfolk worshiping the seven, had a majority population of those adhering to Essosi faiths.
A series of disappearances had taken place on the northern coast of the island, fishing boats and their crews setting off to fish the waters and never returning, Valerion had of course heard of these disappearances, but the waters off of Wreckstone were notoriously dangerous even for experienced fishermen, hence the name and Valerion thought little of it.
It soon became clear that these were no accidents however when a man, half mad with thirst had washed up on the island of Nerissa, being brought before the just and honest Lord Elesham, who swiftly sent him to Crabstone to give his testimony before Valerion.
The man, a Pentoshi fisherman who Valerion recognized as being one of his subjects from the northern coast of Wreckstone had told a damning tale, claiming that he and his three sons had set off to fish the waters between Wreckstone and Bloodstone before a small galley had intercepted them, demanding to know their faith.
When they had answered that they were followers of R’hllor, the men of the ship, who were clearly soldiers, had taken what little valuables they had and suddenly attacked without warning, killing his three sons and pushing him overboard to drown, where he had only survived by holding on to a wooden paddle. The man swore that he had seen a sewn patch of a red scorpion on one of the pirates gambesons…..the sigil of House Vunatis.
The time for action had come….
Valerion was shaken from his thinking as he saw the sandy beaches of Bloodstone come into view….along with a small party of men waiting upon it.
The Lord Paramount smiled as he recognized one of them as Zhorane Vunatis, the man clearly did not suspect anything, it appeared that luck was on their side today.
When they had gotten close enough, Valerion, his son and twenty armed men disembarked the galley onto small rowboats, hitting the sandy beaches with a thud.
‘’Lord Seafyre…….welcome to Bloodstone….I trust the Seven granted you fair seas?’’ Zhorane Vunatis said, stepping forward from his small retinue.
‘’Fair enough.’’ Valerion grunted, taking stock of the situation, Vunatis had only seven men-at-arms with him and a serving man……it would be easy enough.
‘’Please, allow me to properly welcome you ….bread and salt for lord Seafyre and his men!’’ Lord Vunatis commanded and the serving man stepped forward, offering the ancient rite of guest right, which protected both guest….and host when accepted.
Clever Valerion Seafyre thought to himself, but he had no intention of accepting it.
The serving man extended the wooden bowl of bread and salt towards Valerion Seafyre who gave a slight nod, more to his men than in acceptance, reached out with one hand as if he were about to take the bread, and with his other hand swiftly drew his dagger from his belt and drove it into the unfortunate serving man's heart, the bread and salt falling to the sand, unaccepted and watered with crimson blood.
His men lept into action setting upon the surprised retinue with sword and spear, most of the Vunatis men being slain before they had a chance to defend themselves, though one of Valerions men was killed in the brief melee.
Zhorane Vunatis fumbled for his sword, drawing it and slashing a man across the cheek when he approached, and he might have finished the job if another of Valerions men hadnt thrust the butt of his spear hard into his back, sending Vunatis falling to the ground with a groan, where he was quickly subdued by Valerions men.
‘’What…..what is the meaning of this.’’ Vunatis gasped as he was dragged to his feet to face Valerion, his arms restrained behind his back.
‘’The Fathers justice.’’ Valerion Seafyre smirked, and ordered his bannerman to give the signal.
A short time later, the armed crews of Lady Jasonei, Red Flame, and Silver Bane, which had been waiting unseen of the coast came ashore, swelling Valerions warband to over a hundred armed men.
‘’Time to move.’’ Valerion commanded curtly and they began to march towards the timber keep of Bloodstone, situated upon the tallest hill on the island.
‘’They were unbelievers…..heretics……i'll pay recompense if I must……I swear.’’ the Lord Vunatis said desperately as he was pushed towards the castle, clearly accepting that deception would do him no good.
‘’You will pay….on that let there me no doubt Lord Vunatis.’’ Valerion said, not even giving the man a glance as they marched towards the castle.
As expected, the walls of Bloodstone keep were manned with men, perhaps twenty to twenty five, armed with crossbows and spears, mustered to the wall after seeing the scenes at the beach. The castles of the Stepstones were poor and could not sustain large permanent garrisons in times of peace, and they had not had time to call for the peasant levies to reinforce them, Valerion knew that if it came to it, he could take the keep by force, but it's defensible position atop the hill would make it a bloody affair….best to try another way first.
He nodded at the captain of Silver Bane ‘’Take three men and go to the gates under a flag of truce, tell them that if they open the gates and lay down their arms, their lives will be spared…..if they don't, I kill Vunatis here and now and storm the keep and they all die anyway….those are my terms.’’
The man nodded and approached the gates, while Valerion had another man put a dagger to Vunatis’s throat who had his head bowed as if in prayer.
Not even the Seven can save you poor wretch Valerion thought, his hand gripping his sword, he had known how this would end since he set off for the island, and he had a feeling Lord Vunatis was beginning to understand as well.
After a brief conversation, he saw the garrison slowly throwing down their arms and the wooden gates to Bloodstone began to creak open.
He let most of his own men go in first to ensure there was no trap awaiting him, before, satisfied, he made his way inside with the Lord Vunatis.
‘’Fetch the block….and don't look away.’’ He commanded his son who nodded, placing a wooden block in the courtyard.
The garrison had all been disarmed and were brought down to the courtyard, under armed guard. Valerion stepped forward, looking at the small crowd who looked at him with varying measures of submission, fear, and defiance.
‘’ I have promised to spare your lives, but I have not promised to spare all of your lives, promises made to criminals have no bearing….bring them in.’’ Valerion said
Cries of protest from the disarmed garrison broke out as the Pentoshi fisherman survivor from Wreckstone was escorted in, along with several poor fisherfolk from Bloodstone who had been extorted on account of their faith, they swiftly began to point out names in the crowd and the accused were dragged off to be executed, Valerions men would travel the fishing villages of Bloodstone and execute one criminal at each one to show the populace that order had returned to the islands.
When it was finished, perhaps only half of the garrison remained, their faces white and downcast.
Valerion stepped forward, facing the garrison ‘’I will be brief…..as of today, this island is under my personal domain….I will be sending a new garrison commander to oversee this keep and this island, his commands are to be followed exactly…..I will suffer no further disobedience on this island….consider yourselves the lucky ones….consider yourselves lucky….and behold the price of piracy.’’
‘’Mother have mercy…mother have mercy.’’ Lord Vunatis whispered as he was forced to a kneeling position above the block.
Without another word, Valerion Seafyre drew his sword and cut off Zhorane Vunatis’s head.
127-128 AC
The rest of the year 127 AC would pass with little incident except for a diplomatic dispute between Westeros and the Freehold of Braavos. Ever since the Conquerors day, the Ironborn had been forbidden to raid shipping which contributed towards Westerosi trade, either Westerosi ships going to the Free Cities, or Essosi ships bound for Westerosi ports.
For years, the Ironborn had still managed to skirt this rule and rogue crews of Ironborn were common sight in Essosi waters, preying on lone Essosi ships bound for Essosi ports, and bearing no banner that could officially tie them to any clan on the isles, protecting them from consequences from the Iron Throne. The lords of the islands were still involved, funding expeditions and sending kinsmen on these unmarked rogue ships, who would return with loot and glory.
A common destination for these crews of raiders had been the Stepstones, while not the most wealthy region, raiding other pirates scarcely elicited much anger or response, however, with the Stepstones now entirely incorporated into the Dragons realm, the Ironborn needed new raiding grounds…and the Lord of the Isles, Vickon Greyjoy meant to find them…himself, raising over a dozen galleys under the banner of his clan and sailing to the shivering sea of Essos, raiding Braavosi shipping, to great effect, capturing many merchant cogs and sacrificing their crews to the Drowned God in his watery halls.
While in the past, Targaryen rulers had been able to separate themselves from these raids and avoid responsibility of paying compensation for rogue raiders, a Lord Paramount raiding personally with galleys bearing the gold kraken of Clan Grejoy was an altogether different matter and the Braavosi were outraged, leading to a war of words between King Aurion and Braavosi envoys, leading to King Aurion to promise he would send a galley to the north, bearing a royal command for Lord Greyjoy to stand down, and would pay compensation for the raiding.
This would not come to pass however as Vickon Greyjoys adventures in the shivering sea would be cut short by a young Braavosi captain known to history as Admiral Boho Manterys who would meet the Ironborn fleet in a fierce battle upon the cold waters of the north, the battle would prove to be indecisive, but Vickon Greyjoy, Lord of the Isles would fall in battle, leading to his surviving fleet sailing back home, his fifteen year old son being named the next lord of the Isles. It was said that Vickon was not particularly grieved amongst the royal court, who in addition to causing the whole mess was also known to be ambitious and a devout follower of the drowned god, a dangerous combination to be sure.
The Braavosi were still not satisfied and threatened to cut vital trade to Kings Landing, which he city was dependent on, should recompense not be paid, and King Aurion offered no resistance, agreeing to pay compensation for the actions of his wayward bannerman.
With this spat resolved, King Aurion was free to attend to more pleasant matters, namely the marriage of his eldest daughter Princess Baela, whom after some discussion had been promised to Raymund Tyrell, the heir to Highgarden and son of Norman Tyrell, perhaps the King's greatest friend.
Raymund Tyrell was well known to the royal family, having spent several years as King Aurions own ward as a boy, with Aurion oft claiming there had never been a more hardworking squire. Since his upbringing, the young man had gained a reputation as a skilled warrior and tactician, quickly becoming the terror of Reach tourneys, it was always good to bind such men close to the Throne, and even better if it secured and continued the loyalty of Highgarden and the Tyrells for another generation.
King Aurion was still unable to travel due to the wound he sustained from his brother Matarys however, so it was decided that the wedding would be held in King's Landing, and so it would be, with hundreds of nobles from across the realm attending the nuptials. Among them would be the young Lord of Horn Hill, Gareth Tarly who impressed the King with his generous wedding gifts, and the two would part as friends.
Princess Baela Targaryen in Highgarden wearing the distinctive gloves she would become well known for, gloves used to hide the burn scars sustained from dragonflame when she entered the dragonpit with her brothers Jaenar and Vaegon.
The wedding would prove to be a great success, and Kings Landing profited considerably from the event, as a Royal Wedding always attracts merchants, musicians and mummers who serviced the retinues of the many noble guests who celebrated in the streets and taverns below whilst the nobles celebrated in the Red Keep.
Unfortunately, so many new travelers in the capitol would lead to consequences, as shortly after all the guests had departed, the faint whispers of a growing disease in the city would slowly grow louder…….
4th Moon, 128 AC
Streets of Kings Landing, Kings Landing
Vaeron Targaryen pulled his hood tighter to his face as he walked through the streets of Kings Landing towards the Street of Seeds.
He felt naked without his Kingsguard armor and no Dark Sister at his side, and even more so having to travel afoot instead of on horse, but with whispers of a growing pox, the streets were nearly empty and he could not afford to draw attention to himself, and only a complete fool would travel to such a meeting as he was armored as a Kingsguard knight.
Most of the populace of Kings Landing had isolated themselves in their homes as cases of the disease spread, and only the poor remained outdoors, many of whom gave him suspicious glances painted on dirty faces, perhaps sizing him up, but Vaeron Targaryen was a large and brawny man and the looks went no further than that.
Nevertheless, it was a great relief to the Kingsguard knight when he left the rather shady part of King's Landing behind and returned to the cobbled streets of the Street of Seeds, the streets fountain which was normally a hub of activity and gossip was nearly deserted with only a few brave souls darting out to fill their skins.
As he grew closer to his destination, another pang of guilt struck him….he was not the only Kingsguard knight to have a woman he knew, his sworn brother Ser Moribald Ambrose had a relationship with a seamstress in the city and had a brood of bastards sired on her, though Vaeron was fairly certain he was the only one who knew of this.
Aelinor was far from his greatest shame….thoughts of his Uncle Aemorys and the death of his brother Matarys, caused in part due to his releasing of Aelor were never far from his mind, and yet in spite of all of his regrets, he could not find it in his heart to truly think this was wrong, though his head never let him forget his vows.
It came as another relief to him when the small but clean and tidy tavern The Golden Grain came into view, at least for a while he could forget……
As he expected the tavern was completely empty, save for a massive rock of a woman who stood behind the counter, cleaning stone tankards.
Vaeron approached the counter, eyes downcast and pulling his hood closer to hide any hint of his long silver hair, and placed several silver stags on the counter ‘’A woman came in earlier…..’’
The tavern keeper nodded and pointed to the wooden stairs leading to the second floor ‘’Aye…a pretty one……first room on the right.’’
Vaeron grunted his thanks and made his way up the stairs, opening the door.
As usual, when he saw Aelinor, all of his troubles fled his mind at least for a moment, lost in her deep green eyes and kind smile….it had been weeks since their last liaison, the two not having an opportunity to escape their duties as Kingsguard and Silent Sister.
‘’I've missed you.’’ She said, making her way to him, reaching up to pull his hood down from his face, as Vaeron ran his hands through her short brown hair, the two ending up in the bed within moments.
When they had finished, she laid her head on his bare chest, running a finger over his silver hair.
‘’I've never seen the city this quiet.’’ Vaeron said lazily.
‘’The people are scared….it is a horrible disease…and I fear it is only going to grow worse.’’ She replied sadly.
Vaeron grew silent at that before he answered ‘’I can find you a place in the Red Keep, a serving maid perhaps, you shouldn't be out here.’’
‘’I must Vaeron…..if every Silent Sister fled their duty then who would treat the sick…there are little children suffering from this pox, I must do what I can, even now Silent Sisters from all the realm are gathering in the sickhouses King Vaemond had built….I can help, I know I can.’’ She answered impassionately.
Vaeron knew better than to try and talk her out of it, once Aelinor had her mind set on something…it was decided.
He sighed and pulled himself to his feet, pulling on his shirt, the troubles of the outside world slowly returning to his mind.
‘’I know you are worried about me Vaeron….but I am worried about you as well in truth, there is clearly something bothering you.’’ She said, standing and facing him, placing a gentle hand on his arm.
Vaeron nodded slowly ‘’I….I have dishonored my white cloak Aelinor.’’
Aelinor recoiled as if she had been slapped ‘’You think I dishonor you?’’
‘’No….No....you could never.’’ Vaeron said, silently cursing himself for a fool, quickly taking her hand in his own.
‘’’There are things I have done Aelinor…things I am responsible for…..one day….one day I will tell you…all of it but….I cannot stay here…I am a mummer in a white cloak….an imposter’’ Vaeron said, the words he had been thinking for months spilling out, his confidence growing.
Aelinor said nothing, listening.
‘’We could leave together…..sail across the Narrow Sea to some fat Magisters court, I could serve in his personal guard, and you could treat the sick….it would be a simple life…but we would not have to be afraid, you as a silent sister and me as a Kingsguard…we could leave it all behind and start anew…a small house in one of the Free Cities, filled with the sound of little footsteps…we wouldn't have to pretend anymore.’’ Vaeron said, his confidence growing.
‘’How would we afford it?’’ Aelinor asked, though he could see a glimmer of something in her eyes, particularly at the mention of little footsteps.
‘’I could sell my Kingsguard armor, my horses too…it would be more than enough to book passage to….Lorath perhaps, nothing ever happens there, we could live in peace, leave everything behind, just you and me.’’ Vaeron answered, in truth he had already found a buyer for his horses, he had briefly considered selling Dark Sister, he and Aelinor could live comfortably for the rest of their lives off of such a blade, but he quickly abandoned the idea, he was willing to abandon his family and vows, but to sell the ancestral blade of his family that his own brother had granted to him…..no, he would leave the blade behind, along with all his guilt, he could no longer pretend to be a man of honor, a Kingsguard knight.
‘’When this damnable sickness ends and the port reopens we could go….all you have to do is say yes, i'll take care of the rest.’’ Vaeron said, stroking her hair.
‘’Yes.’ She whispered.
Vaeron embraced her, taking comfort in her arms just as he had on the night of his Uncle Aemorys's death.
What Vaeron Targaryen could not know however as they parted, filled with excitement for their new life was that he would never see Aelinor the Silent Sister again, as the poor woman would succumb to the very disease she helped to treat.
RIP to the Free Sisters, it was a good run all things considered. Still odd that the Bravosi didn't even help them considering how they were founded, it's quite ironic that the descendants of the Valyrians would have been the ones lending aid to another city that freed itself from the shackles of slavery, ah well, it cannot be helped.
House Tyrell has profited GREATLY from their friendship with the Throne. That’s at least three of Aurion’s children who have married into Highgarden at this point by my count, including the Crown Prince, and the Tyrells were already descended from Targaryen blood through Queen Laena’s sister even before that. And the other Reachman houses aren’t doing too shabby either, with a Hightower Queen, a Reachman as Hand, and now the Tarlys are also moving in and ingratiating themselves. I have to imagine the other Kingdoms are starting to feel a bit left out and resentful of this much Reach influence at court. Plus, with how ambitious the Reach houses usually are and how much they dislike each other, I could easily see a bit of a court war breaking out among them should anything happen to Maelyx (what with a plague going around and all) and the realm was left with a child heir, or even a child King.
Valerion’s purges and consolidation of power continue, as expected, but at least his ambitions have… well, maybe not abated, but at least mellowed out a little lol. The Stepstones aren’t exactly a great staging ground for a revolt, though I can’t recall if you’ve ever revealed whether Valerion has a dragon or not? Aelor not having one was certainly a big setback to his own ambitions.
I’ll definitely echo HistoryDude’s question above about the Riverlands being elevated to a Kingdom, does that reflect anything practical in-game or is it purely for lore flavour? (Speaking of Kingdoms getting elevated, I may be misremembering because it was a while back, but I seem to recall that the Iron Islands were granted the royal styling privilege at some point, allowing their rulers to call themselves “King” even as vassals of the Iron Throne. I noticed Vickon Greyjoy was referred to only as Lord Paramount here, so is that not a thing any more? I’ve never used that feature in-game for any LP other than Dorne so I’m curious how it works lol)
Vaeron’s plan to leave everything behind and run away with his lady love would probably have been the best move not just for the two of them, but for everyone else as well. In a funny, roundabout way Vaeron has managed to very unintentionally become one of the most influential Targaryens of his generation, not so much for what he personally has done as for all that he has failed to prevent. Most of that influence has sadly been for the worse, and now that he’s mourning and depressed I worry we may be in for even more ill-advised decisions from our favorite oathbreaker. I do kinda love him though, in spite of all that. Wonderfully complicated character.
Ooh, and one last thing that occurred to me; I assume Maelyx was successful in getting the High Septon to remove Aurion’s Kinslaying trait at some point during these years?
Aelor lost his trial by combat. However, he could always potentially escape to make trouble again as long as he lives.
Aurion has gained fire obsessed. Targaryen madness seems to be either present from birth or activated in adulthood by experiencing stressful events. Time will tell if Aurion end up going down the latter path to Targaryen madness or not.
The Stepstones have been subdued after a century and it seems that they may be a permanent addition to the Iron Throne in this timeline. In this timeline, the Targaryens seem to understand the concepts of patience, taking small sustainable conquests, and territorial consolidation than in the canon. In the canon, the Targaryens largely sought large and rapid military conquests that overawed local people and leaders into accepting Targaryen rule. While this worked with most of Westeros, the rapid conquest of all of Dorne and the Stepstones were unsustainable when the people here refused to accept Targaryen rule.
The Free Sisters are dead! A sad but all too predictable outcome.
The Riverlands have been declared a kingdom by Aurion. Does that the King's one of official titles is Lord of the Eight Kingdoms? The term "Seven Kingdoms" was used and struck around in the canon despite not being accurate mainly because the number seven is holy to the Faith of the Seven. Non-Seven of the Faith rulers such as Stannis were not concerned about that and were more willing to change the monarch's official title. Stannis would favor the title of "King of Westeros" as he wanted to resurrect Aegon the Conqueror's original vision of one kingdom of Westeros which had been dropped later in favor of the Seven Kingdoms idea.
Was the Royal styling of the Iron Islands nonhereditary similar to how Bohemian rulers in the Holy Roman Empire was originally granted nonhereditary royal status (and posthumously granted to Duke Wenceslaus I) before Bohemia was granted permanent royal status in 1198 or did you forgot about it or is the permanent royal styling bugged for kingdoms other than Dorne? Vickon II was nicknamed the "Drowned King" but his title is clearly Lord Paramount. It wouldn't surprise me if the Ironborn continued to call their ruler "King" even if they no longer had the right from the Iron Throne to do so.
Raymond Tyrell has mostly positive traits but he also has the ambitious and lunatic traits as well. Raymond is also friends with King Aurion like his father so he is probably not a threat to the Iron Throne as long as Aurion lives. Could he potentially represent a renewed Tyrell threat to the Iron Throne after Aurion in the future? Queen Laena would be furious to see Aurion lavish so much favor on the Tyrells.
Nothing went too horribly wrong, but it was still quite a grim chapter. Vaeron must be one of the most conflicted, disappointing and also disappointed characters of the whole story. He could have been so much, but instead … most of what he touches turns to ashes.
Thank you for your writing. Princess Baela seems to have a good match in young Tyrell. Vaeron is an example of the sum being far short of the individual parts. Strong, bright and handsome with excellent military skills but he will only be a footnote in the family history unless his part in his brother's escape is uncovered.
House Tyrell has profited GREATLY from their friendship with the Throne. That’s at least three of Aurion’s children who have married into Highgarden at this point by my count, including the Crown Prince, and the Tyrells were already descended from Targaryen blood through Queen Laena’s sister even before that. And the other Reachman houses aren’t doing too shabby either, with a Hightower Queen, a Reachman as Hand, and now the Tarlys are also moving in and ingratiating themselves. I have to imagine the other Kingdoms are starting to feel a bit left out and resentful of this much Reach influence at court. Plus, with how ambitious the Reach houses usually are and how much they dislike each other, I could easily see a bit of a court war breaking out among them should anything happen to Maelyx (what with a plague going around and all) and the realm was left with a child heir, or even a child King.
Very true, but its not without reason, the Reach is by far the most powerful Kingdom, as for the Tradition of Tyrell marriages, I will say that there will be a little bit more variety in marriages with some of Aurions other children/grandchildren.
Valerion’s purges and consolidation of power continue, as expected, but at least his ambitions have… well, maybe not abated, but at least mellowed out a little lol. The Stepstones aren’t exactly a great staging ground for a revolt, though I can’t recall if you’ve ever revealed whether Valerion has a dragon or not? Aelor not having one was certainly a big setback to his own ambitions.
Valerion still has ambitious but he has lost the brave trait he had as a youth. He does not have a dragon at the moment, but there will be a significant dragon claiming by a party not entirely friendly to the throne in the next part of this chapter.
I’ll definitely echo HistoryDude’s question above about the Riverlands being elevated to a Kingdom, does that reflect anything practical in-game or is it purely for lore flavour? (Speaking of Kingdoms getting elevated, I may be misremembering because it was a while back, but I seem to recall that the Iron Islands were granted the royal styling privilege at some point, allowing their rulers to call themselves “King” even as vassals of the Iron Throne. I noticed Vickon Greyjoy was referred to only as Lord Paramount here, so is that not a thing any more? I’ve never used that feature in-game for any LP other than Dorne so I’m curious how it works lol)
The elevation of the riverlands is just for lore flavour, not really any practical changes. As for the royal styling of the Iron Islands it is hard to say, the Greyjoy ruler is in fact still called Lord Paramount, but I never revoked the royal styling and I still have option to ''revoke royal privelege''....will have to see about fixing this next play session.
Vaeron’s plan to leave everything behind and run away with his lady love would probably have been the best move not just for the two of them, but for everyone else as well. In a funny, roundabout way Vaeron has managed to very unintentionally become one of the most influential Targaryens of his generation, not so much for what he personally has done as for all that he has failed to prevent. Most of that influence has sadly been for the worse, and now that he’s mourning and depressed I worry we may be in for even more ill-advised decisions from our favorite oathbreaker. I do kinda love him though, in spite of all that. Wonderfully complicated character.
Vaeron is one of my favorite characters to write, and he will have perhaps as many as three POV scenes in the next full chapter (to be called ''The Dance of Kings Landing'' . More ill-advised decisions from him to come unfortunately.
Ooh, and one last thing that occurred to me; I assume Maelyx was successful in getting the High Septon to remove Aurion’s Kinslaying trait at some point during these years?
Yeah it was removed, I was considering removing it by console as I thought it was harsh to get a -30 opinion modifier for Aurion defending himself, but luckily the High Septon took care of it very quickly.
Was the Royal styling of the Iron Islands nonhereditary similar to how Bohemian rulers in the Holy Roman Empire was originally granted nonhereditary royal status (and posthumously granted to Duke Wenceslaus I) before Bohemia was granted permanent royal status in 1198 or did you forgot about it or is the permanent royal styling bugged for kingdoms other than Dorne? Vickon II was nicknamed the "Drowned King" but his title is clearly Lord Paramount. It wouldn't surprise me if the Ironborn continued to call their ruler "King" even if they no longer had the right from the Iron Throne to do so.
Yeah it does appear to be bugged as I never removed the royal styling, yet Ironborn rulers are known still as Lord Paramount and yet I still have option to revoke royal privelege...will look to fix this when I play again. Speaking of the Ironborb, there will be a POV in Pyke, or at least the Iron Islands in the not too distant future.
-To All: Hope everyone had a good Christmas Season if you celebrate. Have been pretty busy so not too much progress on the next part of this chapter, further slowed that I decided to add another short POV (which I have now just completed) involving two of Aurions younger children (One has appeared before while another will appear for a fist time) to give them some more personality (as this same pairing will be involved in a future POV)...next chapter may be a while coming out still, but I have a lot more clairty on its structure and the next full chapter....''The Dance of Kings Landing''......
2
2
Reactions:
Chapter 60: Of Peace, Plague, and Progresses (Part 2)
The pox which ravaged Kings Landing in 128 AC would be a deadly but relatively short lasting disease, disappearing as quickly as it had appeared, but not before killing several thousand people.
The disease would not leave without grasping in its clutches a member of the royal family, as even the isolation of the castle dungeons were not safe.
Aelor Seafyre would be stricken by the pox, reduced to a pitiful and deathly state. Whether or not the King was made aware of this we cannot be sure, but there is no record of any Maester making their way to the dungeon to administer treatment, no doubt to avoid any spread into the castle.
And so Aelor Seafyre would live, or die on his own, the guards not willing to risk entering the cell with food and water, forcing the rapidly deteriorating Aelor to resort to water droplets on the cell walls and rats for sustenance.
It is said the guards began to take wagers on if the former prince would survive his illness, with most betting he would not, no doubt encouraged by the moans and cries of pain that echoed from the cell each night.
And yet there was still fight in the traitors body as remarkably he would survive his illness, yet he would be forever changed by this sickness, as while his body would eventually recover, his mind was destroyed by the desperate fight for his life, the man growing almost feral, attacking any who dared enter his cell, and shouting in the late hours of the night. The King on one occasion after the disease did sent a Maester to offer what treatment he could, yet Aelor strangled the man almost to death with his chains before being pulled off, and from that point on, none were allowed to enter his cell.
The pox would claim one final victim however, as Maynard Mormont, Lord Commander of the Kingsguard would be found dead in his bed during the last days of the disease.
King Aurion would appoint his younger brother as the new Lord Commander of the sworn brothers of the Kingsguard, and it is said that never had there been a Lord Commander who seemed to be so solemn and grim in accepting such a great honor.
The beginning of the year 129 AC would see a pleasant development in the Red Keep, as the wound that King Aurion had sustained, a dagger to the thigh from his brother Matarys, would finally heal after three years, leaving the King free to walk without the assistance of a cane.
Aurion would immediately make plans for another progress of the realm, his first in several years.
First, the King and a small retinue, along with the Queen would make the short ride to Dalston Keep in the Crownlands, the seat of House Gaunt. They would be well welcomed there, and Queen Alicent would hold another of her famed womens court, and even take the young bastard daughter of old Lord Gaunt, Gisella Waters as her personal handmaiden, as a bastard girl of an old man with many trueborn siblings would have few and unpleasant prospects.
Not all the conversations at the table of Lord Gaunt were pleasant however, as the old man confided in Aurion that shortly before, one of his grandsons, a youth of just sixteen had traveled to the nearby large town of Tumbleton with a few comrades to celebrate the earning of his knightly spurs.
During their revelry, they frequented a tavern in which the Lord of Tumbleton was also present. The two parties began a game of dice when one of his grandsons companions was accused of cheating and a heated argument broke out when Tygget Gaunt stood up for his friend, and as best as Lord Gaunt could understand from reports of witnesses, the Lord Footly had ordered his men to slaughter his grandson and his companions before they even had a chance to defend themselves.
The mood of the progress soured considerably after this tale, and King Aurion swore to the aged man that he would receive justice for his grandsons murder, sending ravens that very night to Tumbleton, demanding Lord Footly travel to King's Landing and surrender himself to the King's justice. There would be no response for several days however, and reports suggested that Lord Footly had isolated himself in his castle with the protection of a full garrison, the walls of Tumbleton manned and guarded by his levies.
King Aurion could not let this defiance stand, and another raven was sent to King's Landing with orders to deal with the truculent Lord Footly and prevent the defiance from going any further
2nd Moon, 129 AC
Outside the Town of Tumbleton
The Market Town of Tumbleton, Seat of House Footly
Prince Vaegon made another round over the sprawling town of Tumbleton , its cobbled well to do streets nearly empty, most of the townspeople fleeing to their homes when the golden wings of his dragon Kastax were sighted.
What was not empty however were the ramparts of the castle and the city walls which were teeming with men-at-arms, and he could see the glimmer of armor behind buildings below, no doubt dozens of crossbowmen positioned in the streets.
Don't be foolish Vaegon thought as he looked at the crossbowmen below, more for their sake than for his own. His father had given him strict instructions that if any physical resistance was offered they were not to retaliate but to return to Kings Landing and await his arrival, whatever Lord Footlys crimes, it would be an act of wanton brutality to burn one of the most prosperous market towns in the region to ash, even if they were fired upon first…their presence here was a show of strength, nothing more….Vaegon trusted himself to obey his fathers commands, but he was less confident in his younger brother Yraenor, a reckless youth of sixteen who had only recently claimed his dragon Proudwing.
To that end, he gave another rather anxious look towards his younger brother Yraenor, every time he did so, worrying that he would see pyres of fire and smoke rising from the town, though luckily his brother had not done anything reckless, his green dragon Proudwing seemed to be growing more and more upset however, likely sensing the crossbows and bows trained on it.
I think our strength has been shown sufficiently Vaegon thought to himself, giving a signal to his younger brother and commanding Kastax to turn around towards the grassy fields outside of the town. The sight of his younger brother atop an increasingly agitated Proudwing also reminded him of the death of his older brother Jaenar, furthering his desire to end their time above the city.
When they had flown a sufficient distance away from the town, Vaegon ordered Kastax to land, next to a small contingent of knights and mounted gold cloaks from King's Landing, which the dragon obeyed with its typical grace, Yraenor and Proudwing were not far behind, though the green dragon let out a shrill screech as it landed with a heavy thud, spooking their escorts horses.
‘’What did they think they were going to do with crossbows.’’ Yraenor exclaimed excitedly as he slid off of Proudwing ‘’they are lucky we didnt burn their fucking town to ash….they really thought a crossbow would make a difference…one bolt and Proudwing would have proved them to be fools.’’
Prince Yraenor Targaryen, fifth son of King Aurion and his dragon Proudwing
‘’I agree’’ Vaegon said simply, once again relieved that none of the defenders of Tumbleton had been foolish enough to let fly a bolt, especially at his brother….it seems his worries about his Yraenors temperament were not ill founded…he had been concerned about it ever since he had received the raven from his father ordering the two of them to Tumbleton…he felt as if he alone could have handled the task, but far be it from him to oppose his own father and it was true that his younger brother needed seasoning and it would do him good to take on some true responsibility to prepare him to better serve his family as a man.
‘’So what now?’’ Yraenor demanded, pacing in front of his dragon.
‘’We deliver them our terms….Lord Footly must surrender himself to our men and be taken to the capitol to face justice…’’ Vaegon said, running a hand through his silver goatee.
‘’I should be the one to deliver them the terms.’’ Yraenor quickly interrupted.
Vaegon hesitated, it was true that his brother was far better with words than him and spoke his mind more easily, and could be pleasant with a joke or quip…and yet his brother was also prone to agitating comments and insults…it would be a poor idea to send a youth of sixteen, and a squire at that to parlay with grown men and knights.
‘’Perhaps it would be better if I went Yrae.’’ Vaegon began, quietly clearing his throat, preparing for his brothers inevitable whining.
‘’You cant even look me in the damn eye and you think you should go.’’ Yraenor scoffed, but offered no further protest, turning and looking at the small company of men that had accompanied them to escort Lord Footly to Kings Landing should they be successful.
‘’You.’’ Yraenor said, pointing at a grizzled mounted gold cloak ‘’Dismount and give my brother your horse.’’
The man did as he was bid, though he did not look entirely pleased with having to take orders from a boy decades younger than him, though Vaegon gave him a gentle nod of thanks and mounted the horse, riding towards the gates of Tumbleton but not before turning towards his brother.
‘’If anything happens…you don't retaliate…you dont attack….you go back to King's Landing and wait for father…..’’ Vaegon said, earning a rather unconvincing shrug from Yraenor.
Realizing that was likely the best he was going to get, Vaegon continued towards the stone walls of Tumbleton, watching as they quickly flooded with armed men as the lone rider came into sight.
Vaegon supposed he should be more worried as he felt dozens of crossbows and bows trained on him, and yet while he did not have the same prideful recklessness of his brother Yraenor, fear was not something that came easily to the Prince, and besides, if the defenders of Tumbleton truly wished to go such a foolish route, he would be worth far more as a hostage than riddled with quarrels.
‘’That's close enough!’’ A voice shouted out, and an attractive knight stepped to the forefront of the mass of defenders.
‘’Why are you here Targaryen.’’ The knight demanded.
‘’To deliver my fathers terms Ser.’’ Vaegon said quietly.
‘’Speak up!’’ The man demanded and Vaegon did as he was bid.
‘’I'm surprised you didn't come on the back of that beast of yours.’’ The attractive knight grumbled.
‘’There was no need….its close….as you no doubt know’’ Vaegon said, gesturing to the plains behind him, causing much of the garrison to give nervous looks to the prone golden dragon in the distance.
‘’You mentioned terms?’’ The knight said, having lost most of his bravado and confidence, seemingly cowed by the reminder of the two dragons in the background, a good sign Vaegon thought.
‘’Your Lord must surrender himself to my fathers justice, and ride out of the gates alone where he will be escorted back to King's Landing for judgment, he will be treated as befits his birth and title I assure you, as for Tumbleton, there will be no punishments enacted against the town, you or your men, provided you return to the King's peace.’’ Vaegon answered, they were generous terms, fitting his fathers charitable nature, and he could see the defenders of the city looking at each other, it was clear many of them wanted to take hold of the olive branch that had been extended to them.
‘’We will be waiting outside the walls till nightfall, by all means inform your Lord and talk amongst yourselves, these terms are the best you are like to get Ser, I suggest you accept them, my father will put an end to this defiance one way…or another.’’ Vaegon continued, before bowing his head in respect and leaving, returning to his brother and their small mounted escort.
Several hours passed, and Vaegon began to fear that the defenders were fool enough to reject his fathers generous terms, if they could not settle this peacefully, then his father would have no choice but to place the city under siege, his father would surely not subject the town to Dragonfire, but this defiance would have to be quashed, even if it took an assault of the walls to do so.
Luckily for all parties however, his worst fears seemed to be abated when the gates of Tumbleton were opened and a party of knights rode out, surrounding a pale and clearly terrified noble who could be none other than Moryn Footly, the Lord of Tumbleton,and judging by the close grip his knights kept on their weapons and the man's expression…he was clearly not there by choice….his men had turned on him to avoid subjecting the town to a conflict with the throne.
‘’Lord Footly….I am glad you have seen reason.’’ Vaegon said, choosing to ignore the fact that the man had clearly been forced to surrender by his knights.
‘’We shall ride to Kings Landing my Lord, where you will be held in judgment over the killing of Tygett Gaunt until such a time my father proclaims judgment….you shall be treated gently until then.’’ Vaegon finished
‘’I hope you are a good rider…it is a long way to King's Landing.’’ His brother Yraenor said, a gleam in his blue eyes.
‘’I sit a horse well enough.’’ Lord Footly answered, his face still pale.
‘’Oh I wasnt talking about a damn horse.’’ Yraenor smiled, nodding his head towards his dragon Proudwing.
Lord Footly gulped.
129 AC-
Accompanying Soundtrack Recomendation:
The realm breathed a collective sigh of relief when the brief defiance of Tumbleton came to an end and Lord Footly was secured in House Arrest, a conflict had clearly been avoided.
King Aurion briefly paused his progress to return to King's Landing and sit in judgment over the wayworld lord who stood accused of slaying Tygett Gaunt, whom was later revealed to be his own cousin in cold blood over a minor quarrel.
The King would have been well within his rights to punish the man severely for his defiance and initial refusal to submit, yet in fitting with his nature and with council from his son and master-of-laws, Maelyx, a more subdued response was given, and Lord Footly was forced to pay a large tribute equal to several years of Tumbletons income to the crown, who duly gave a portion of it to the Gaunts of Dalston Keep as recompense for their loss. Lord Footly would not long survive his release however, causing further trouble in the Reach and ending up under house arrest in Highgarden where he would drink himself to death.
With this distraction out of the way, King Aurion was free to continue his progress, making the short voyage across the narrow sea to the Targaryens ancestral seat of Dragonstone, touring the castle with his children and grandchildren, visiting the famed gardens of Visenya and King Vaemonds tomb, paying tribute to the son of the Conqueror whom had died and had his ashes buried on the island.
While his family toured Dragonstone, Aurion would make a short trip to the castle of Stonedance, visiting with old Ralph Massey, who had once been the realms Master of Ships before the emergence of his former ward Prince Valerion, while in Stonedance, the King would honor the region by taking several knights into his service, a tradition of his progresses and one that many local knights were eager to take advantage of, as it was common knowledge that local knights could rise far in the King's service, evidenced by Ser Garon of Fawnton, a hedge knight from the Stormlands who had joined the Kings retinue during one of his progresses and risen high, first to the Red Keeps master-of-horse and then to commander of the Iron Gate of Kings Landing.
His final day in Stonedance would involve a visit to the site of his first battle as a boy, fought against the forces of the rebel Septon Arstan, the memory of his uncle Aemorys informing him of his fathers death clear in his mind as he walked the fields.
The next leg of the progress would involve a much longer voyage by sea, as word would reach the King that Helia Martell, whom had once nearly come into conflict with the throne during Aelor Seafyres rebellion, had died of natural causes, leaving her young granddaughter Ysilla Martell as the new Princess of Dorne.
King Aurion resolved to travel to Sunspear personally along with his wife Alicent to partake in the festivities of the new Princesses ascension, it would be Aurions fourth visit to Dorne and Alicents third. Also accompanying the royal party was Lady Sarra Martell, whom had been a hostage in King's Landing since Aelors rebellion, but with her mothers death, Aurion determined it was high time for the woman to return home. The aged Princess Larissa Targaryen, last surviving daughter of Laena Targaryen, the Queen of Skulls would also join the royal party as Ysilla Martell was her own granddaughter.
The festivities in Sunspear were pleasant and all agreed the King's presence made it all the more memorable, but after two weeks it was time for the King to continue his progress, while Alicent and Larrisa would return to the capitol.
Princess Larrisa Targaryen would never return to King's Landing however, catching cold on the voyage back and succumbing after a brief illness…the old woman being the last of the daughters of the Queen of Skulls to die, and perhaps the last to have truly known the old Queen, who was fast becoming little more than an unpleasant memory, with the Princess Larrisa also having known the late King Vaemond.
Queen Alicent would see the Princesses body would be brought to Dragonstone where the woman was born and raised, overseeing a proper burning for the old Princess, with her remains being interred near her grandfather King Vaemond and her sister Lianna Targaryen.
As for King Aurion, he would continue his progress in Dorne, traveling first by Poleboat down the River Vaith and then continuing on horseback across the dunes of the Great Desert, the southernmost point of his realm. There he would be hosted in the castle of Scimitar and attend the wedding of the young Lady Synella Allyrion.
Following the wedding, the King's time in Dorne would be complete, and he would continue on to the Reach, traveling north through the Princes Pass towards Sommerset, the seat of Alan Oldflowers, his Hand of the King.
After honoring the family of his Hand with a vist, Aurion would travel to Oldtown, briefly visiting with his Brother-by-Law for a day, before sailing from the port of Oldtown for the Iron Islands. King Aurion had oft stated that whenever possible, visits to the Isles must be made to keep some semblance of royal authority and influence over the Ironborn so that they would not drift away from the Kingdoms or isolate themselves, talk he backed up with actions as this was to be his third trip to the islands, being the only ruler since Aegon the Conqueror to have ever visited the Isles. This visit was to be especially important as with the death of Vickon Greyjoy in the Shivering Sea, Pyke was now held by his son, a boy, and it was important to foster loyalty to the throne at such a young age.
King Aurion had been expecting the son of the late Vickon Greyjoy to be a fierce and bold child, but instead he had been met by a meek boy who could barely meet his eye at Pykes feast table and recite the ancient rites of hospitality. Aurion was relieved to some extent that it seemed unlikely the boy would stirr up much trouble in his adulthood like his father had, but his temperament was worrying all the same, it took a certain strength and authority to rule over the isles, and if the boy did not posses it, then no doubt the Jarls and Captains of the island might look to one more suited to the Seastone chair, and that would not bode well for peace in the region.
Despite these concerns, the King enjoyed himself in Pyke, spending several nights listening to the skalds sagas and songs in Pykes great hall, the same hall that his forebearer Aegon the Conquerer had held the famed Dragons Moot at. In the days he would travel into the nearby town of Lordsport and bear witness to the famed tradition of ‘’finger-dancing’’ and axe throwing, though his retinue certainly had several sleepless days being such a small force surrounded by the wild barbarians, though the King seemed to show no fear, gaining the respect of the Ironborn for his boldness of coming to the isles with such a small force and without a dragon…..King Aurion had ruled for over three decades now and no longer needed Vhagar to exert authority or respect.
Following his time in the Islands, King Aurion would set off for the last leg of his progress, sailing from Pyke to Seaguard and from there would ride to the Bloody Gate into the Vale, finally arriving at the Eyrie.
King Aurion had visited the mountain seat of the Eyrie once before and had not enjoyed it, finding it a boring, lonesome and desolate seat, set similar to the Iron Islands, the Vale had recently come under control of a boy of nine, Jonos Arryn, whos father had gotten himself killed in a duel with one of his vassals, and despite the Kings dislike of the Eyrie, it was important to instill loyalty to the crown personally to child rulers so that they may grow into leal vassals of the House of the Dragon.
After a short visit to the Eyrie, King Aurion would descend from the castle and travel to the port of Gulltown, escorted by a force of mounted Vale knights led by Elwood Royce the Lord of Runestone and the Eyries master-of-horse so as to not let the wild mountain clansmen of the Vale get any ideas, and the King would arrive safely in Gulltown shortly after.
Aurion would return home to King Landing in the 7th month of 130 AC, his fourth progress of the realm having taken 1 year and 5 months.
7th Moon, 130 AC-
Following King Aurions fourth progress of the realm, a long period of peace and relative quiet would fall over the realm for several years.
Upon his return to King's Landing, Aurion would hire a skilled company of builders with instructions to build a small yet stately Sept in the Princes Pass of Dorne, giving little explanation as to his reasoning, only instructions that it should be simple yet elegant. However King Aurion was no longer a young man at this time, approaching fifty years old and likely growing more aware of his mortality, it was commonly agreed upon by the builders that they had been entrusted to construct the beloved Kings future final resting place, as both Aurion and Alicent had both remarked that there was not any kingdom in the realm half so beautiful Dorne which they had both visited many times.
The long period of peace following King Aurions fourth progress would see several developments within the Royal Family, the first being the birth of another child to the Crown Prince Maelyx and his wife Myria Tyrell, a healthy boy whom would be named Baerion, two years later another girl would follow, Princess Shaella, the crown princes fifth child.
This time period would also see another royal marriage, as Princess Rhaena Targaryen, the sickly second daughter of Aurion and Alicent would come of age. The King would consider many options for the marriage of his daughter, including the young Tymond Lannister, Lord of the Westerlands and Casterly Rock. However it is said that Prince Maelyx spoke in opposition to the match, perhaps wisely cautioning his father against watering yet another of the great houses with the blood of the dragon. Queen Alicent was also against the potential marriage, stating her concern that the stuffy and enclosed seat of Casterly Rock would not mesh well with Rhaenas poor health and that it would require a long trip to visit Casterly Rock, an important consideration as it was said that Rhaena was the queens favorite child, and the two were nearly inseparable.
King Aurion acceded to his son and wife's opposition to the match with the Lannisters, and instead arranged his daughter to marry the young Willas Tarly, Lord of Horn Hill. King Aurion had befriended the boy's father, Gareth Tarly at the prior wedding of his daughter Princess Baela, keeping in correspondence with the man until he died of rather suspicious circumstances a few years prior.
Not only would the match honor the King's old friend, but it would also diversify the crown's support in the Reach, having connections to Highgarden, Oldtown and now the Tarly’s of Horn Hill, the strongest house on the Westmarches bordering Dorne.
The court of the Red Keep, similarly to the Royal Family would also undergo some change as in 134 AC, Lord Alan Oldflowers, Hand of the King for the past several years would pass away several days after a serious fall walking down the tower of the hand, eerily similar to the death of his predecessor Anders Swygert.
King Aurion would appoint his son Maelyx, the Crown Prince and Lord of Dragonstone to the position, encouraged by the fact that his son had many years of experience serving as the realm's master-of-laws. In his place, the elderly Lord Trant from the Stormlands would be made the new Master-of-Laws.
While the realm would experience many years of relative peace in the early years of the 130’s, that is not to say there were not troublesome situations in which the crown was forced to intervene.
The first of these, perhaps not very surprisingly, took place in the Iron Islands and involved an Ironborn warlord named Godric Myre, the Lord of Harlaw. Godric Myre was a man both feared and respected as the finest warrior in the islands, a renowned berserker who felt no pain in the heat of battle and an axeman without equal, gaining much reputation for personally joining many unmarked longships on raids in Essos where he further cemented his reputation as the most formidable and ruthless warrior on the isles.
Godric Myre was not only a skilled warrior, but also an ambitious one, and even the most warlike lords on the islands feared getting on his bad side….and for good reason as after a long absence raiding to the east, Godric Myre returned to the isles, determined to increase his own power, and promptly raised his battle hardened reavers and declared a raid of conquest against his neighbors Clan Orkwood of Nettlebank.
Maron Greyjoy, Lord of the Isles and now a young man faced an unenviable situation before him. On the one hand, Godric Myre was much respected, and clan feuds and conflicts were common on the islands, with the Greyjoys rarely attempting to put an end to such fighting, being far more likely to join in than anything else.
On the other hand, even though Godric Myres prowess was respected, he was well and truly feared by all on the islands, and most doubted the power hungry warlord would content himself with Nettlebank alone…..a man with his ability could challenge even the most powerful houses on the islands, and perhaps even make a play to remove the timid and meek Maron Greyjoy from the Seastone Chair…..most of Maron Greyjoys kinsman and retainers urged him to raise his forces and put an end to this threat in the old way and prove he was worthy of his fathers seat.
Maron Greyjoy chose to take a different route however, rather than taking on Godric Myre in the old way….he sent a raven to the capitol, requesting aid from the Dragon King to deal with this dangerous vassal.
King Aurion agreed to intervene on behalf of the young boy he had met several years prior, sending a raven to Godric Myre with a royal command to cease his attacks and warmongering, though the Berserker ignored these commands, continuing his ruthless attack against his neighbors…..leaving King Aurion no choice but to declare that Godric Myre had turned brigand and rebel, dispatching his son Prince Vaegon and the dragon Kastax to Pyke to put an end to the violence.
Such force would not prove to be necessary however as Godric Myre would leave the islands when news of the imminent arrival of Prince Vaegon and his dragon became clear. It was said the berserker had at first pledged to slay the dragon with his own ax in one of his rages, but eventually his captains somehow got the man to see reason, and that while his ambitions in the isles were clearly over, a man of his prowess could still make a life for himself.
And so Godric Myre left the islands with a fleet of several longships, followed by his most loyal captains and reavers, setting sail for Essos where they would hire themselves out to the mercenary company the Maidens Men, whos captain was pleased to gain such fearsome and skilled warriors under his command….though he would be considerably less pleased when Godric Myre cleaved him in two over a dispute about their pay and defected with his followers to the Second Sons.
The second such problem that the crown was forced to intervene with was centered around the normally peaceful and calm Kingdom of the Vale.
The current Lord of the Eyrie, Jonos Arryn was still a boy, and untested, and such rulers are always vulnerable to older adult claimants and Jonos Arryn was no different, having an ambitious bastard uncle, Renly Stone, who had journeyed to Lys to build support for his claim, and the Lyseni were all to eager to fund a potential attack on one of Westeros’s kingdoms to sow instability, the Lyseni having already funded a pirate attack against Kings Landing as revenge for King Aurions previous support for the Free Sisters and the capture and plundering of their capital city during the war.
Renly Stone had attracted nearly 8000 sellswords to his banner with Lyseni gold, with more joining every day until word eventually reached the King and his court that the Vale was in danger of an attack.
King Aurion sent envoys to Lys to meet with the claimant, informing him in no uncertain terms that should he land in the Vale with this army, the Crown would defend the young Lord of the Eyrie, with dragonfire if needed.
The Lyseni, who cared nothing for Renly Stone or his chances and only wanted to cause chaos in Westeros urged him to continue his campaign, but the young claimant knew that his ambitions had been foiled the moment the Crown pledged opposition to his claim, he could perhaps take on the Lords of the Vale in a war, but not the Vale and the Targaryens along with their dragons, the man abandoning his hopeless campaign shortly after.
Just as there were situations across the realm that required the crown's attention, so too was there controversy closer to home in the Red Keeps court, a controversy which would cause one of the few blemishes to King Aurions long reign.
The controversy involved Ser Moribald Ambrose, a sworn brother of the Kingsguard. It had always been whispered among the court that the knight had an illicit affair with a seamstress in the city, but these rumors were spoken in hushed tones and while it was not known if the King had heard of these rumors, Aurion was never a man to put much stock in rumors.
However, these rumors would become impossible to ignore when Moribald Ambrose quietly attempted to send a young boy of sixteen, the daughter of a seamstress in the city, to be fostered with his Ambrose kinsman in Torrentpeak, the seat of his cousin, lady Elwene Ambrose, requesting that the boy be given a place in the court and allowed to rise high.
It was not particularly difficult for the Lady of Torrentpeak to put two and two together as to why her Kingsguard cousin was sending a young man of humble birth to be fostered among his kinsman…such a boy could only be his own bastard.
Lady Elwene Ambrose was a fearful woman however, and raising the secret bastard of a Kingsguard in her own hall under the nose of the King was not something she was inclined to do, and she immediately sent a raven to the capitol, informing the King of her cousins deception and treason.
If King Aurion had not heard the rumors before, he certainly did now, however at the advice of his heir and Hand, Maelyx Targaryen, he did not act immediately, instead ordering the man followed.
Ser Moribald was seen entering the house of a seamstress on the Street of Silk, a seamstress that had three young children, and another that had recently left the city, a boy who fit the description of the one that had been sent to Torrentpeak.
King Aurion, seeing no other choice, personally ventured to the White Sword Tower with a contingent of men and the other brothers of the Kingsguard at the break of dawn, ordering Ser Moribald Ambrose to be seized from his bed and brought before him.
The sworn brothers of the Kingsguard were bound by sacred oath to not father children and Ser Moribald faced stern consequences for breaking it, namely gelding and being sent to the Wall to serve as a brother of the Night's Watch for life.
Ser Moribald threw himself before the King however, begging for the right to a trial by combat to prove that these children were not his, and while he could not deny that he had intimate relations with the woman, he was hardly the only one.
King Aurion, ever the charitable ruler, agreed, and Ser Moribald Ambrose named his younger brother, Ser Eustace Ambrose as his champion, who immediately set forth for the capitol to stand for his brother.
It was said that King Aurion was furious to have allowed such a coward to have a place in his Kingsguard for so long, he had given his Kingsguard the right to a trial in expectation that the man would defend himself personally, not hide behind another who had no part in his treason.
King Aurion declared that he would represent the crown personally in the coming trial, and none, not his son Maelyx nor even his beloved Queen Alicent could talk him out of the idea, in truth, Aurion was nearing fifty and it had been years since he had been in a true fight, it was said the King, ever the bold warrior, was growing restless.
King Aurion fought doughtily on the day of the trial, having a height advantage over the man as well as the benefit of Blackfyre in his hand, yet Eustace Ambrose was younger and more naturally skilled, and as the trial in the courtyard of the Red Keep commenced it became clear the King was outmatched, seemingly slowed by the old wound in his thigh.
Ser Eustace could have finished the King several times, though wisely he decided that slaying Aurion in front of a crowd of Targaryens and the court would not have been a wise decision, waiting for his moment as the aging King fought on stubbornly, refusing to accept defeat.
Eventually the younger knight made his move, sticking a leg behind the King and pushing him to the ground, placing a sword at Aurion Targaryens throat and demanding he yield and pardon his brother…and Aurion was forced to accept….Ser Moribald Ambrose would be stripped of his white cloak, but allowed to return to Torrentpeak and his kinsmen….leaving Aurions pride and body bruised but otherwise unhurt.
It would be the last time the King would take up Blackfyre against another in earnest.
9th Moon, 137 AC
Royal Chambers, the Red Keep
Accompanying Soundtrack Reccomendation:
It was the hour of the wolf, the Red Keep nearly completely silent, the moonlight pouring in from the large glass windows, as King Aurion sat at the table in his chambers, staring into the roaring fire of the hearth, a glass of wine in his hand.
He started at the fire, taking comfort in the familiar warm and crackling aura of the flames.
They must mean something….something so perfect…so pure….would not exist without purpose The King thought to himself as he ran a finger through the flames, letting the heat embrace him until he could stand it no more.
Aurion knew his fascination with flame was not normal….it had remained hidden until after his fight with Matarys on dragon back, the infernos of green and red flame unlocking something in his mind, like a key to a long lost chest, but perhaps it had always been there.
The flames had come to have a certain power over him he had to admit…..just a few months prior when he had ordered his Kingsguard Moribald Ambrose imprisoned, he had been prepared to have another represent him during the trial….and yet that night when he had looked at the flames, he had seen his victory dancing among the embers…and from that point on his course had been set.
I still do not understand them Aurion thought to himself, he devoted many hours to each night to watch and reflect in front of the flames, as he aged he found he needed less sleep, and yet he had misinterpreted their meaning before the trial by combat, he must not make that mistake again.
He knew it was strange and his fascination with the flames had long since grown into an obsession, one which he was careful to not disclose the extent of it to his court, and yet he did not believe his pursuit of this knowledge was foolhardy….the blood of the dragon was imbued with many qualities that common men were not…and his ancestors the Valyrians had been fire incarnate….there had to be a meaning to the flames.
And yet…not all was positive, he had found that ever since his dream all those years ago, his first exposure to the rousing flames he could not remember his fathers face, nor even that of his dead son Jaenar, all that remained in his mind was the memories of their funeral pyres, how the fires had burned bright and high into the sky…how their flesh had….melted. It was an unnerving admission, and one he had shared with noone, not even Alicent, who was perhaps the only one who knew the extent of his fascination with the flames.
He would not give it up however, he was close…to what he did not know….but there were secrets to be revealed in the beauty of the flames…..some nights when he looked hard enough he could see images and visions dancing in the embers,visions of the past, the present, future and never to be….yet most gone by morning.
Once again he focused on the roaring fire, his surroundings fading away and a gentle ringing in his ears.
Suddenly he heard a noise from behind him, Alicent stirring in bed.
‘’Aurion…dear….it is late…..come to bed.’’ She murmured, the flames casting their light on her beautiful silver hair….hair of white golden flame.
The King nodded, slowly rising from his chair, giving a last look to the flames, he found that looking into the flames helped alleviate some of the conditions that men his age often struggled with during nighttime activities.
He saw…..fire…..shouts of men below, the cold night air on his face……white flame and green flame……the steaming hiss of dragon's blood as it fell through the cold night air…a high tide of blood..a dragon's roar of protest….Vhagar….another vision…..the Seas son rising out of the waves.
He froze, the images flying before his eyes, his heart beating faster and faster, an ache in his chest increasing with each beat.
‘’I…..’’ Aurion groaned quietly, placing a hand on his chest, his head feeling faint and the strength leaving his legs.
‘’Aurion.’’ He made out Alicent say in concern, rising from their bed and taking his arm.
Again he heard it, a dragon's roar of protest….Vhagar.
King Aurion fell to his knees and collapsed as all went dark around him, the faint sounds of Alicent shouting and the Kingsguard rushing in from outside as his world grew black around him.
-To All: I had originally planned for chapter sixty to be a 2 part chapter, however there will be one more part to this chapter.
Lys will continue to be a problem. Let's hope that no one else will attempt to ally with them against the Iron Throne...
Will Aurion's fascination with fire and its visions lead to some consultation with the followers of R'hllor?
I wonder what those Iron Islanders will do in Essos... Will they be content to be mere mercenaries, or will they attempt to carve out their own realms like their Viking inspirations?
