The Heir of the Dragon: A Rhaenyra Targaryen Quest

Voting Closed

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The day your engagement was announced, a white raven arrived from the Citadel to tell the realm that, true to house Stark's words, winter had come once more. Some took this as an ill omen, a sign your marriage was a harbinger of troubles to come, but your father insisted that it was a sign of great things ahead. The realm would enter spring forever transformed for the better.

Despite the talks being barely a secret by this point, the announcement you were to wed Qoren Martell still came as an immense shock to most at court. Most assumed the prince would demand far too much for any reasonable king to even consider, or that you, the willful and defiant princess, would balk at such a marriage and refuse the match. Few expected you to accept. Almost no one expected you to accept this easily.

Once the surprise wore off, reactions to the engagement and the vast implications were being chattered about all over the Red Keep. Men such as Lord Beesbury and Otto Hightower showed a tepid approval, pleased at what was achieved but worried about what was done to accomplish it and what it may yet cost. The Lord Hand in particularly seemed very unsure about how much he wanted to actually take credit for his role in the matter.

Others approved whole-heartedly. Lord Bartimos Celtigar notably praised your father loudly in court, saying he had shown himself to be as great a king as his grandfather was. Even Tyland Lannister thanked you out of the blue one day for accepting this match, noting it allowed him the most restful sleep he'd had since taking the post as Master of Ships.

Many though were less than pleased. A number of lords openly complained to your father that terms were far too lenient on Dorne. Some, such as Lord Darklyn, even proclaimed that the plans to hold the Stepstones would be ruinous to the crown's coffers and that Daemon's actions would drain the treasury dry within a generation. If the whispers of the maids and maesters were to be believed, far worse things were being said about you in private. Lords were japing that you had fallen for the wiles of a devilish Dornishman, while others jeered and said your father had sold the Iron Throne to Dorne.

How the realm at large was reacting to matters was rather unclear to you. Most ravens you got these days were simply congratulations on your impending wedding, and with winter here, few lords were traveling to the capital these days. Lady Jeyne did send you a raven voicing her surprise that you were marrying so soon, but noted gaining a kingdom was fair price for having to tolerate sharing a bed with a man.

You did hear a few rumors that lords in the Dornish Marches were in an uproar. Well, those who didn't gain land of course. Your father took reasonable efforts to ease the loss of land, reduced tax burdens for some while others were paid off in gold for the relatively minor losses they had to accept. But you knew many of them would take any loss of land as slight to their honor and status, no matter how minor it was. If Lord Stokeworth was to be believed, some were beyond just angry. Apparently Lord Caron of Nightsong had openly cursed his late father for ever having voted for Viserys at the Great Council.

If your father heard any of these complaints and near treasonous talk, he did not seem to care. For the reign of King Viserys, this was shaping up to be the crowning achievement. Though he personally would never see Dorne join in full, the marriage pact he and Prince Qoren wrote would ensure that in a generation, Westeros would be united from New Gift to the tip of Dorne. All without a war.

He was quick to heap praise on you as well. Even, rather begrudgingly, admitting that he was wrong about your knighthood making you no allies, since it was the Great Northern Tourney that attracted Qoren's interest in the first place. The praise did a lot to temper your fears and misgivings over the fact that in at most a year in a half, you would be married.

Qoren for his part did what he could to charm the various lords in King's Landing, vowing to remain in the city a few months until the new handmaidens he promised you had arrived. It was strange to think that in less than two years time you would be calling that man your husband. You did not regret your choice, but it felt quite strange still.

Of course, there was a fourth person to consider in all this. While it had been your actions and your father's deft diplomacy that had made this pact with Prince Qoren possible at all, the pressure caused by Prince Daemon's war in the Stepstones was one of the major reasons the prince had even considered offering his hand in marriage. Were it not for your uncles foolishness on Dragonstone, this match may not have happened at all, as much as you loathed to admit it.

Daemon returned to King's Landing a fortnight after your engagement had been announced, circling the city three times on the back of Caraxes before landing by the Red Keep's main gate.

The throne room was packed as the king awaited his brother's return. You stood with Alicent in the crowd as your father put on his crown and took Blackfyre in one hand as he stood before his throne.

Daemon walked in looking very much the conquering hero, a swagger in his steps and an iron crown on his head.

The sheer tension in the room felt almost physical. Even Prince Qoren had an uneasy expression as your uncle made his way towards the Iron Throne.

If Daemon decided he did not like the terms of the deal, that he had absolutely had to rule the entire Stepstones, things could become very complicated very quickly.

All seven of the Kingsguard moved to place themselves between the King and Daemon has he got a bit too close to your father while still wearing a crown and carrying Dark Sister at his side.

"You wear a crown now," your father said with a well practiced sharp inflecton, not quite scolding Daemon but close. "Do you call yourself king?"

You noticed Otto watching the whole thing unfold, his expression even but tense.

"After we smashed the Triarchy, my men named me King of the Narrow Sea," Daemon explained, taking a long moment to stare at his brother before kneeling and offering his crown. "But we both know there is only one true king. The Stepstones are yours, your grace."

Viserys stared at the crown for a long moment before finally embracing Daemon in a hug, your uncle placing his head against his brother's shoulder as the whole room erupted in applause.

Afterwards the two of them talked and joked in the gardens for hours, catching up after long years apart. They were laughing and smiling freely. You had not seen your father so happy since your mother died. From the way they talked, one might think there was never a rift between them at all, that Daemon's crude comments and treasonous actions had never even occured. You were glad to see your father so happy again, but were also worried at how quickly Daemon was able to place himself at his brother's side once again.

Your uncle and Joanna were civil enough to each other. Daemon seemed to hold no ill-will towards her, but you could also tell he didn't seem to hold any of the same respect for her he once showed your mother. He did hold Helaena for a brief moment, clearly impressed at how large the girl was for her age.

You and Daemon said barely more than a few words to each other that day. You were civil, yet the tension was hard to deny. You had taken Daemon's spot as heir and ended his marriage. Even if he loathed his wife, you had still taken it from him without his knowledge. More than that though, you had upstaged him. He had conquered a few pirate infested rocks while you had just made an ally and future vassal out of Dorne. Years of hard fighting had been overshadowed by maybe a dozen conversations over the past few months.

Shortly after Daemon's return, your father announced there would be a grand feast to honor Daemon's victory, and all were expected to attend.

Lord Corlys arrived a week later, though he made it clear he did not intend to stay for long. Things did seem far less tense between the Sea Snake and your father than when he had left. Lordship over the Stepstones clearly did a lot to soothe his wounded pride, but Corlys still saw himself as having no place in King's Landing, particularly with a Lannister holding his former seat.

Your name day was all but forgotten with everything going on, though in truth things had been so busy even you had barely noticed it's passing.

Much had changed in a short while in your life and much still would change in the near future. As the first snows began to fall on King's Landing, you realized this would be the last winter you experienced as an unmarried woman.

It is Now Winter

Rhaenyra is now 17 Years Old

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Second Season, 115 AC

Two Free Actions: Free Action allows to make additional Conversations or Action per turn (For example 3 Conversations and 3 Actions, or 4 Conversations and 2 Actions). However, using both on Actions creates Stress from Rhaenyra being overworked and further reduces the effectiveness of Relaxing.

Each turn is 3 months, though this may change as the quest goes on. You can pick either from the options below for your tasks or use write-in actions after QM approval. Please use plan voting for turn votes.

No Cost Actions are Actions that can be taken freely no matter how many actions have already been taken.

Conversations (Pick Two)

[] [Conversation] Speak with Viserys
Your are engaged and Daemon has returned, your father is in the highest spirits he's been in years. Perhaps it would do well to spend some time with him. Of course on a darker note, Orwyle's words have yet to leave your mind. You know the Maester said it was pointless to try and convince the King that Grand Maester Mellos' treatments weren't working, but he wasn't the King's daughter, you were. Perhaps you could convince him.
-[] Speak to Viserys about his failing treatment
-[] Speak to Viserys about other Matters.

[] [Conversation] Speak with Qoren Martell
It would do well for you to speak to intended husband before he returns to Dorne. The two of you could begin to figure out how what your life together would be like. And mayhaps he could help you with matters close to home before he leaves.

[] [Conversation] Speak with Alicent Hightower
While you haven't spoke to her father yet, with so much going on as of late, you would quite enjoy spending more time with Alicent

[] [Conversation] Speak with Otto Hightower
Daemon had returned to King's Landing, the Grand Maester's Treatment of your father was failing, and you had promised Alicent you would speak to her father about your relationship. There was a great deal of things you could discuss with the Hand of the King right now. Alicent weighed most heavily on your mind, you needed to figure out how you were going to explain to him that you were effectively in a relationship with his daughter and it was in his best interests politically to not only tolerate it but accommodate as well.
-[] Speak With Otto About Alicent
-[] Speak with Otto About the Grand Maester and your father's treatments
-[] Voice your concerns about Daemon's return to Otto.

[] [Conversation] Speak With Daemon Targaryen
Your uncle is not your favorite person in the seven kingdoms, nor are you his. Perhaps now would be the time to mend relations with him, or make them worse. You had taken his wife from him and outshined his glory, it would be so easy to anger the Rogue Prince. And an angry Daemon was one prone to making stupid decisions, which you could use to your advantage. On the other hand, Daemon loves your father dearly and he holds no love for the Hightowers or Grand Maester Mellos. If there is anyone who might listen to your concerns about your father's health, Daemon is it.
-[] Try and Mend Fences with Daemon
-[] Anatgonize Daemon
-[] Speak to Daemon about Viserys' Health

[] [Conversation] Speak with Gwayne Hightower
Despite his somewhat rude behavior towards you, Alicent's brother was still something of an ally to you. Perhaps he could be useful in convincing his father to accept your relationship with Alicent.

[] [Conversation] Speak with Lord Commander Harrold Westerling
Your former sworn shield could probably give you some insight into how the court feels about all that is happening.

[] [Conversation] Speak With Queen Johanna Westerling
As much as you still don't like the prospect of being in the same room as Aelora, it might do good to check in with Johanna, make sure she doesn't feel her pregnancy is being ignored with all the talk of the castle being focused elsewhere.

[] [Conversation] Speak with Ser Raylon Tarly
While Raylon is tolerating your engagement to Qoren, he isn't happy about it. And he seems to have developed some of a rivarly with Qoren's bodyguard, Obara. Perhaps it would be good to check in on him again, make sure this rivarly is nothing serious.

[] [Conversation] Speak with Lord Lyonel Strong
The Master of Laws and Lord of Harrenhal. While Lord Strong's quite happy with you studies so far, it never hurts to try and improve your learning whenever possible. And with Dorne one day to join the fold, it might do well to review Dornish law with him, see how the Princedom differs from the Iron Throne.

[] [Conversation] Speak with Lord Lyman Beesbury
The Master of Coin. Beesbury is loyal, perhaps not as sharp as Lord Strong, but he is quiet loyal to your father. It might do well to talk with him, see how your marriage pact with Dorne and the end of fighting in the Stepstones will effect the treasury.

[] [Conversation] Speak with Grand Maester Mellos
This man is killing your father, not through malice but incompetence. Orwyle said it was pointless to convince the elderly grand maester of his errors but your stronger and scarier than Orwyle will ever be. Perhaps you could convince Mellos to see the error of his ways. Perhaps a well placed threat will convince him if honey does not.
-[] Try and reason with the Grand Maester (Will Involve Rolls)
-[] Threaten the Grand Maester (Will Involve Rolls)

[] [Conversation] Speak with Lord Corlys Velaryon.
Things did not end well between you and Corlys last you spoke, but that was years ago. And conquest seems to have settled his humors somewhat. Perhaps you could use this chance to build a relationship with the Sea Snake.

[] [Conversation] Speak with Rhaenys Targaryen
Your last conversation with your cousin went poorly, actually it's safe to say it went terrible. You were nearly screaming by the end of it. Perhaps the two of you could move past that and try to have a friendly conversation. At the very least you are curious what she thinks of what she thinks of all that has happened recently.

[] [Conversation] Speak with Laena Velaryon
You quite enjoyed having another Dragon Rider around. Laena was fun, bold and brash in her own right. It would be quite enjoyable to spend more time with her.

[] [Conversation] Speak with Isembard Arryn
It has been some time since you returned home, more than enough for him to have set up operations. It would do well to check up on him, see what his plans are for your joint venture, if recent events have changed them any, and see if his gift for you is ready.

[] [Conversation] Speak with Obara
You don't know many other women who fight, perhaps it would do well to speak with one of the few who do. Perhaps Qoren's sworn protector will have some insights on your future husband as well, or perhaps she might better understand what Dorne in general thinks of you.

[] [Conversation] Write-in
Subject to QM approval, has to have a reasonable chance of being in King's Landing.

Actions (Pick Two)

[] [Action] Relax
While you have much to celebrate and feel great about, your future marriage does weigh heavily on your mind. Perhaps you should take some time to yourself, read in the godswood, fly around with Syrax for fun, and just enjoy yourself for a while. It does seem like a waste of time but perhaps it could do you some good.

[] [Action] Investigate the Death of King Aenys
Most Maesters and other writers agree that Queen Visenya had poisoned her nephew, King Aenys, to allow her own son to take the throne. But you have already seen how much those same authors were willing to ignore Visenya's contributions and slander her already. Perhaps this is simply another case of slander. If you could prove that, it could improve Queen Visenya's reputation considerably and make a stronger argument for your own eventual rule.

[] [Action] Propose a Plan to Collect The Stepstone Tolls
You had spent some time thinking about the tolls that will soon be collected in the Stepstones. It would require quite some effort to set up harbors to inspect ships in and would interrupt a number of important trade routes. But you have worked on a plan to ease the burden for Westerosi merchants and while the Sea Snake and Qoren are still in King's Landing, you could propose it to them and the Small Council.

[] [Action] Study Valyrian History with your Father.
The little you've learned already has proven of great value to your training with Syrax, and has brought a bit of joy into your father's life. Who knows what further research may uncover.

[] [Action] Train
You are one of the greatest wielders of the blade of your age. That statement may be more than little egotistical, but it is true regardless. Still, you are young, and there's always a chance for improvement
-[] Challenge to a Duel: Raylon has suggested dueling others as a way of sharpening yourself against new blades. Have others find flaws in you that he has missed (Pick One)
--[] [Duel] Ser Steffon Darklyn
--[] [Duel] Steffon Redfort
--[] [Duel] Gwayne Hightower
--[] [Duel] Obara
--[] [Duel] Daemon Targaryen (Will Involve Rolls)

[] [Action] Train with Syrax
While you have done a lot of flying with Syrax recently, you can't deny that Daemon's return has given you desire to show off with Syrax, show just much closer and stronger the two of you were since Daemon last saw you.

[] [Action] Sneak out and Explore the City
When your father and uncle were your age, they regularly went out of the King's Landing at night for all kinds of things. Naturally such things were forbidden to you as they were "unbefitting a princess" but as heir to the throne, shouldn't you have a chance to let loose and explore the city you'll one day rule? Between your engagement, Daemon's return, and the start of winter, celebrations have consumed much of the city.

[] [Action] Request a Role in the City Watch
You know Lord Strong said it was all but impossible for you to acquire a roll in the City Watch, but that was before you became a knight. And while you've agreed to take training from Lord Strong to become the next Master of Laws, there's nothing wrong with exploring your options.

[] [Action] Figure Out How to Improve your Knowledge of Warcraft
As Lord Strong had pointed out, few could deny you were a skilled fighter, but you knew next to nothing about waging war, about tactics and strategy. And even now, your father and your tutors seem loathe to train you on the subject. There had to be a way for you to learn, to not just fight in combat, but one day lead men into battle if you must.

[] [Action] Work on Acquiring a Squire
You are a knight. A fully anointed knight. And while you were never a squire yourself, not formally anyways, there was nothing saying you could not have a squire of your own. A squire would give you a chance to both pass on what you've learned, and show the realm that your knighthood was more than just a title.

[] [Action] Fly to Harrenhal
There was little you could learn about Valyrian magic or prophecies at Harrenhal, but perhaps another visit would help you better understand the cursed castle and whatever foul magic clings to it. And Alys River would be there. Alys, who knew far more about the history and magic of Harrenhal then anyone should. You also couldn't help but wonder if Alys might be able to help your father and provide aid where the Maesters have failed.

[] [Action] Study
There is always room to improve your education.
-[] Study Law
-[] Study Other Topics

[] [Action] Work on Your Poetry
Your poetry so far has not been great, but your travels, particularly the Great Northern Tourney and that moment at the end with Alicent, have given you a great deal of inspiration to work with.

[] [Action] Harp Practice
You found quite a few reasons to enjoy your newfound hobby. Practice on the Harp soothes you through the long hours, impresses many at court, and your Lady Alicent greatly enjoys listening to it. It might do well to practice on the new Harp Prince Qoren has given you.

[] [Action] Prepare for a Trip to Dragonstone
In the eyes of the crown you are an adult which means you have every right to rule Dragonstone in your own name if you wish. Normally you would barely give this any attention as you're still quite young and those running the island in your name are doing a fair job of it. But recently, you've realized a trip to Dragonstone would provide you the perfect excuse to get away from the politics of King's Landing and your uncle, and spend some private time with Alicent. Plus, it would give a good chance to search through the castle's library for Valyrian texts.

[] [Action] Decide What to Do With Your Tourney Winnings
In the grand scheme of your holdings, your tourney winnings were very modest indeed. But they were your winnings, coin you earned through your deeds alone. And there was enough there that you could do a fair amount with those gold dragons.And now that you were back home, you could start doing something with them.

[] [No Cost Action] Design Personal Heraldry
While not every member of your house has their own personal heraldry, it feels fitting for you to make one of your own considering your status as heir, particularly now that you are set to be married. Personal Heraldry is important. It will be what you carry on your shield when you enter a tourney and it will be the banner your men march under in times of war.

[] (Action) Write-in
Subject to QM approval

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QM's Note: Azel's plan is approved and has been added to the actions. Daemon Targaryen has returned to King's Landing at long last. So your chaos gremlin of an uncle is now gonna be around for...however long he manages to avoid causing an incident. Do with this as you will. Daemon's celebration feast will be covered in an lnterlude so keep that in mind.