You are Rhaenyra Targaryen, eldest child of King Viserys Targaryen, the first of his name. After the tragic death of your mother and newborn brother, and the disgrace of your uncle Daemon, your father has seen fit to name you Princess of Dragonstone and Heir to the Iron Throne. Declaring to the whole Realm that one day you will be it's ruling queen, a first for the Seven Kingdoms. Even now you can see many lords are skeptical and may oppose you rule in time. Can you navigate the treacherous path that lay before you, avoid your canonical fate and become the first true Dragon Queen of Westeros.
You stand in the throne room, the many blades of the Iron throne flanking you as you stare into a hall filled with almost every lord of note in the Seven Kingdoms, from Hightowers to Starks, Greyjoys to Royces. A cascade of various colors and banners stretches out before before your eyes. All gathered to swear fealty to the King's new heir, to swear feality to you, Rhaenyra Targaryen. A few months ago this would have seemed impossible, you were your father's only living child yes and a skill dragon rider in your own right but you were a girl and to many the pervious king, the one had made your father, Viserys, his heir and successor, had made it clear a woman was not allowed to sit the Iron Throne in her own right. And your father had never shown much interest in having you as his heir, keeping his brother Daemon as heir as he tried desperately to have a son. But a great many things had changed in those months.
Your mother was dead, along with the brother you could have had. Your uncle disgraced himself in the night following their passing, leading to Daemon storming out of the city on dragonback in a dark fury as your father revealed to you the secrets of your family line. Before then you had another title, a nickname really, one given to you by your father. You were-
Nickname (Origins)
[] The Realm's Delight (Canon)
Before today you were viewed largely as King Visery's beautiful daughter, one of the fairest princesses the Realm had known in some time, but of course you were so much more than that. You were charming, when you wanted to be, quick witted, and a skilled dragon rider. For the past few years you have wanted nothing more than to ride your Dragon Syrax and eat cakes with your best friend Alicent Hightower. Had your parents given you a brother that lived you likely would have ended up as his consort, but that was not to be. Despite the nickname and naming you heir, your relationship with your father has been awkward and tense for a few years now. He had always so wanted a son and you were little more than his cupbearer much of the time. You were much closer with your uncle, Daemon often giving you gifts when he returned from his many adventures. Though with you taking Daemon's place as heir to the Iron Throne, both relationships may soon change drastically. As you look out at the lords before you see some uncertainty among the crowd but nothing of particular note. You sense that there are more than a few objections to the idea of a woman being heir but none particularly focused on you personally for the moment
Your Relationship with your Father is: Complicated
Your Relationship with Alicent is: Strong
Your Relationship with Daemon is: Decent
Your Dragon is: Typical for its age, well behaved by dragon standards.
Gain Traits: Beautiful, Kind
[] The Scholar
You have been buried in books since probably before you could walk. Were you man you probably would have already forged a few links at the Citadel. You've met more than one Maester who you outmatched in smarts and knowledge, that much was for sure. You loved reading the histories of Nymeria's ten thousand ships and your ancestor's conquest with Alicent Hightower but your real passions lay in exploring the mysteries of old Valyria with your father. The two of you had spent many a moon pouring over the ancient texts, translating them and making the plans for the stonemasons. You can say with fair confidence that a solid third of your father's grand model of Valyria's capital city exists thanks to your efforts. You are well learned many subjects, froms the histories of the great houses of westeros, to the many facets of stewardship, and the kingdom's complicated trade relationship with the various cities of Westeros. Your father believes you are well prepared for the burden he has placed on you, he has in fact expressed his deepest regrets over not realizing he had a suitable heir already. But as you look around you see doubts in the faces of the lords swearing fealty to you. You are a bookish girl, little known to the Realm at large, barely ever seen at court. They see you as weak, perhaps even weaker than the average woman would be in your position. You know your uncle Daemon will not react well to be replaced by you. He once called you "Vaegon with tits"' after the Old King's barely remembered youngest son, and has remarked on more than one occasion how boring he finds you. Despite this, you are not without support, many in court understand that you are a bright young woman who's brilliant mind is full of wonderful and quite ambitious ideas.
Your Relationship with your Father is: Excellent
Your Relationship with Alicent is: Strong
Your Relationship with Daemon is: Poor
Your Dragon is: Small for it's Age and Timid
Gain Traits: Scholar, Reserved.
[] Visenya Reborn
You came out of the womb fighting, it is said, a fitting start for what you have become. You are strong and tall, not just for a woman your age but even compared to men of your age as well. More than one person has compared you to Visenya Targaryen, one of Aegon the Conqueror's sister-wives and fierce warrior in her own right. All your life you've wanted to be like her, a warrior, perhaps even a knight. Naturally such things were considered impossible for women and any chance at being trained was refused to you. So you started getting into fights with boys your age. After being found by the Kingsguard with blooded knuckles or a broken nose on far too many occasions, your father gave in and hired a Master-at-arms to train you, declaring that if you were going to keep getting into fights you should at least learn to do it properly. You took quite well to training, quickly developing skill with the sword and with a lance, much to the frustration of your father, and your friend Alicent. The exceptional treatment you have gotten clearly does not sit well with the more proper Hightower lady and the two of you don't speak that much these days, though you have noticed that when you train in the yards she is almost always watching you, often quite intently. At first your uncle encouraged your interests but as you grew older, and more brash and bold, he grew distant, you sense he feels threatened by you to some extent. As you stand before the gathered lords, dressed in armor instead of silks, you see a wide variety of expressions staring back at you. From the Starks, Strongs and Baratheons you see curiosity, perhaps even approval. A respect for strength despite its origins. From others you see confusion, revulsion, contempt, even scorn. They hide it as best they can but you see it all the same, to many of these lords you're a freak, a misbegotten thing your father has given too much indulgence. You will prove them wrong in time, of that you are certain.
Your Relationship with your Father is: Complicated
Your Relationship with Alicent is: Very Complicated
Your Relationship with Daemon is: Wary
Your Dragon is: Large for it's age and eager for battle.
Gain Traits: Strong, Defiant
As you look at the crowd, at the men who would one day be your bannermen and call you Queen. You think to future and your dreams and plans for it. You would be queen, that was certain, no matter who challenged you, are there would be challengers of that you had little doubt, but there was more to your goals then just being Queen.
Goals (up to three. Not counting the mandatory one). These are your goals for the years to come, what you seek to accomplish now that you are heir to the Iron Throne, these goals will shape much of the actions you may take on an average turn. Success with a goal brings with it many rewards, while failures and setbacks may have consequences for you, mentally as well as physically.
[X] To become Queen (Mandatory)
While you may have hesitation about your role as heir, as you see the crowd standing before know you know you will never waiver, your father made you heir and one day you will sit the Iron Throne, no matter who gets in your way.
[] To become a Knight (Visenya Reborn only)
While you maybe a warrior now, you seek to be something more, something no woman has ever become, a knight. You want to be annointed by a septon and swear your vows as another warrior puts his sword upon your shoulder, you want to knock men off their horses with your lance. To be a knight would be the ultimate validation of your training, proof that you are not simply tough for a women as so many claim, but you are a warrior in your own right who should be respected and feared.
[] To build a New Valyria (The Scholar only)
The more you studied the ancient texts the more you realized how much was lost with the doom. The Freehold was monstrous, that you cannot deny, but the magics and sciences they had were almost beyond belief. Much of that is lost, but perhaps not quite as much as people think. You have uncovered much in you studies of the ancient texts, more than just records of what was. Fragmented passages provide hints at how they constructed their cities, how they were able to use magic so easily. Westeros will never be Valyria but you're convinced you can use some of the Freehold's secrets to make the Seven Kingdoms so much more than they are.
[] To convince Alicent to ride on Syrax (The Realm's Delight only)
Alicent has been your friend for as long as you can remember and you have been passionate about dragon riding since your dragon, Syrax, was large enough to carry you. Syrax is nearly big enough to carry two people without discomfort for any involved. And yet Alicent refuses to even consider going for a ride. Not of fear of Syrax, rather she fears she will look improper. That absurdity is preventing your friend from sharring in one of your greatest passions. You can fix this, you know you can. With some work you're certain you can convince Alicent to take at least one ride with you.
[] To have an Adventure
You are Ten and Four years of age, your father is in his prime. It will in all likelyhood be many decades before you sit the Iron Throne. Time enough for you to live, to do something you've never done before, something drastic and bold, something unsuited for a common princess but something not entirely unreasonable for an to the throne to do. You aren't sure what yet, fight pirates in the Stepstones, explore Essos, fly Syrax east as far as you dare, but it will come to you in time.
[] To find Love
Your parents loved each other deeply, the void left by your mother's death was proof enough of that. While the end result terrifies you, you cannot deny you want something similar to what your parents had. You want to love someone so deeply that leaves a mark on your very soul and for them love you as much in turn. It doesn't have to be your husband, it need not even be a man. You're not really sure what you're looking for, perhaps it is someone you already know, or a complete stranger. All you know is they must be out there somewhere.
[] To sit on the Small Council
You are heir to the Iron Throne, and your father's cup bearer. While the latter gives you a great position to listen in on the dealings of the small council it provides little in the way of power, or even respect. If you are going to one day sit the Iron Throne, you need to be more than just a cupbearer, you need a seat on this council, to have a voice in the Iron Throne's affairs. This will give you the practice you need to prepare for your own rule and it will help establish your presence in politics to the lords of Westeros.
[] To Conquer
Aegon built a lot in a short time but you can't help but feel the work is unfinished. Dorne stands defiant of your family's dragons, their knees still unbent. And what of the Stepstones, for how long has such vital shipping lanes been allowed to remain a haven for pirates? The realm has known peace for decades but to what end? The Iron Throne belongs to the last dragon riders left in the known world, it's high time your family put them to use again.
[] To be the Greatest
Aegon forged the Realm and Jaehaerys brought it stablilty but you could be be better than either of them. You will show the lords of the Realm that not only can a woman rule in her own right, they could rise to greatness if given the chance. The road to glory will not be easy or safe, but you are confident you can master it if given time. By the time you're gone they won't speak of any of the kings who came before, they will only speak of you.
[] Write-in (Subject to QM approval)
QM's Note: So a couple of notes, this will generally follow the canon of House of the Dragon save for maybe a few changes. Generally assume that everything save Rhaenyra herself, followed show canon up to the end of episode 1. Also this quest is going to have some mechanics, which I will get into soon, but some of it is background stuff, but the focus here is much more on narrative, I want the readers to be more focused on creating an interesting story then turning Rhaenyra into some canal-building Goblin. Also if anyone would be willing to collabrate with me on this quest or beta read at least I would greatly appericate it. While I have a solid idea of what I want from this quest, it's been a very long time since I've even tried to do a quest so I am nervous.
Titles
Princess of Dragonstone, Heir to the Iron Throne
Nickname(s)
Visenya Reborn
Stress
38 out of 100
Attributes
These are here largely as a general assement of Rhaenyra's skills and as a means of tracking progress. While the focus here is more on narrative over mechanics, with dice rolls only being occasionally used when I feel an element of randomness will add more to the story, it is important to keep Rhaenyra's skills in mind when attempting various actions. You will not have much success trying spy craft against Daemon for example if Rhaenyra's skills at intigue are mediocre at best.
Diplomacy
You lack much training but you are naturally charming to many. And you ou have proven yourself capable of resolving complex situations and crisis without violence. A talent which is starting to be noticed.
Administration
You have been decently trained on both matters of coin and the law, though the former holds little interest for you.
Prowess
You are an expectional swordswoman, and a natural with the bow and lance. You are an expectional warrior for this age, regardless of gender or age. You have beaten members of the Kingsguard in training duels. Despite this you have little experince outside the training yard and still have considerable room to grow.
Dragon Rider
You are a skilled Dragon Rider, though you lack any true combat experince, your bond with Syrax and practice do a lot to make up for it.
Strategy
You lack much in the way of training but you have a natural talent and enthusiasm for your lessons, there is much room to grow here.
Intrigue
Like many royal and noble teenagers, you know how to lie to adults and evade guards when needs must beyond that you have little talent here. Spycraft and subterfuge are hardly talents for an aspiring knight after all.
Learning
While no Scholar, you are better read at ten and five years of age the most lords twice your age will ever be. Your knowledge of Valyria is more than expected of you but far less than your father or Uncle.
Traits
Strong
If you were a man you would probably be a knight already. You cut a striking figure, tall, solidly built, with muscles like a maiden's dream as they like to say. Though in your experince you have more than a fair few boys and men starring at you along with the women when you train, some just to gawk and mock you of course, but your strength has won you your share of admirers. Your strength is remarkable for your age, practically unheard of for a woman. With proper training you could become one of the deadliest fighters in the Seven Kingdoms. While luck or the gods made this strength relatively easy for you to acquire, it is something that needs constant work to maintain. If you don't train enough your skills with the sword may start to fade, and your hard earned muscles will begin to disappear.
Defiant
Many men call you stubborn, but that's not true. You can be quite agreeable when you want to be, it's just when the men in your life try to confine you to a life of pretty dresses and act as a broodmare for some lord you were forced to marry to better your family's position. You are a Targaryen, you can command dragons and their blood flows through your viens, why should you be expected to behave like some common noble woman? You do not take kindly to being told you can't do something because of your gender and you make it known, sometimes loudly. More often then not you do what you see as best no matter what anyone says, even if it may cost you politically.
Romantic
Your grandfather and grandmother loved each other deeply and passionately, as did your mother and father. While both relationships ended tragically, that love has left an impression on you. Whatever your feelings on having children, you believe love is a vital part of life. You want more than a husband who does his duty, or a night of passion with someone you care little for, you want love, you want romance. You want men to compete for your hand, you want women to offer you the favors as you compete in a tourney. While you're aware the romances in the stories, are just that, stories. You want some of that in your life. The person you fall in love with doesn't need to be the person you marry, but the thought of being trapped in a loveless marriage without anyone to find solace in leaves you terrified. And you know if you ever do fall in love, you would be hard pressed to even consider putting them aside, no matter the complications that may arise.
Studious
While not a natural scholar you have developed both a talent and passion for your studies. What some would dismiss as the tedious work of maesters, you have come to find quite enjoyable and even relaxing at times. Hours spent by candlelight almost buried by various texts and ancient tomes is a fine way to send an evening in your opinion. You have a kind of diligence in your studies, able to carefully sift through piles of seemingly useless or half ruined texts to find the information you need. What would take the average lord, those who can read at least, months to uncover you can uncover in greater detail in a matter of weeks.
Dreams
To become Queen
While you may have hesitation about your role as heir, as you see the crowd standing before know you know you will never waiver, your father made you heir and one day you will sit the Iron Throne, no matter who gets in your way.
To become a Knight
While you maybe a warrior now, you seek to be something more, something no woman has ever become, a knight. You want to be annointed by a septon and swear your vows as another warrior puts his sword upon your shoulder, you want to knock men off their horses with your lance. To be a knight would be the ultimate validation of your training, proof that you are not simply tough for a women as so many claim, but you are a warrior in your own right who should be respected and feared
To find Love
Your parents loved each other deeply, the void left by your mother's death was proof enough of that. While the end result terrifies you, you cannot deny you want something similar to what your parents had. You want to love someone so deeply that leaves a mark on your very soul and for them love you as much in turn. It doesn't have to be your husband, it need not even be a man. You're not really sure what you're looking for, perhaps it is someone you already know, or a complete stranger. All you know is they must be out there somewhere.
To sit on the Small Council
You are heir to the Iron Throne, and your father's cup bearer. While the latter gives you a great position to listen in on the dealings of the small council it provides little in the way of power, or even respect. If you are going to one day sit the Iron Throne, you need to be more than just a cupbearer, you need a seat on this council, to have a voice in the Iron Throne's affairs. This will give you the practice you need to prepare for your own rule and it will help establish your presence in politics to the lords of Westeros.
Achievements
Canon Avoided
-The canonical events of the Dance of Dragons and the years that came before it are no longer possible. Rhaenyra has weaved a new fate for the whole Realm.
First Sparks
- You Have Begun a Romantic Relationship.
The Knight and the Lady
- You have begun a Knightly Romance with Alicent Hightower.
This area will likely expand over the course of the thread. I should note there is some behind the scenes stats involved as well but those are largely kept hidden, don't worry about them. You will generally have a good idea how Rhaenyra's skills or strength compare to a challenge.
Traits
Traits are defining aspects of Rhaenyra as a character. These are largely reflective of her personalty and character, if she's kind or cruel, reclusive or adventerous, with a few special cases such as Scholar and Strong. Traits shape a lot of the narrative. A brave and defiant Rhaenyra is probably going to have quite different interactions with Otto Hightower most of the time compared to a more reserved and even tempered Rhaenyra. certain options are open only to certain traits. Taking options that go against Rhaenyra's traits can cause Stress, for traits such as Strong and Scholarly, long term neglect of Rhaenyra's physical or mental training can cause Stress instead as she finds herself losing things she has come to prize highly about herself. Pivot moments, repeated behavior and other things can cause Rhaenyra to gain Traits, have them modified or lose them.
Stress
Stress is exactly what it sounds like, Rhaenyra's stress level. Rhaenyra can gain stress from various things, failures, going against her Traits in a particularly notable manner, such as an Honorable Rhaenyra being forced to do something abhorrent or a Diligent one not able to complete a task to her satisfication. It can also be caused by failures, setbacks, general events (The death of her mother and newborn brother for example has caused Rhaenyra some stress for example). Stress can be Reduced by having Rhaenyra do less in a turn (unless Rhaenyra is Diligent or another trait that focuses a lot one work), spending time with loved ones or by having her do something she enjoys. Stress is on a scale of 1-100 points, if we hit a 100, Rhaenyra will likely either have an emotional event that is unlikely to help her and or gain a negative Trait. If you've played Crusader Kings III you get the jist of it, it's basically that.
Goals
Goals things Rhaenyra wants to achieve, from things as simple as finding someone to love to as grand as conquering Dorne. The main thing goals do is help define what options Rhaenyra has on the average turn. After all, A Rhaenyra who's not a warrior and has no desire to become a knight would have little use for training in the yard or competing in a tourney as a mystery knight. Completing a quest will usually have some matter of benefits. Failing a Quest on the other hand is a lot harder as it means not only as Rhaenyra failed in an effort, she's in a situation where her goal is no longer physically possible or for some reason she has given up on it all together. This naturally will lead to a great deal of Stress
Relationships
Another key part of this quest is Rhaenyra's relationship with others. Do they love her, fear her, hate her, think of her as weak? These all effect no only the options we have when we interact with them, but can change their overall behavior towards Rhaenyra. If Rhaenyra somehow wins the unwavering loyalty of Otto Hightower for example , he won't plot against her like in Canon. Also Alicent, Viserys, Daemon and others have some unique relationships statuses with Rhaenyra compared to other figures.
Characters of Note
King Viserys Targaryen
Relationship Status: Warm Health Status: Fair
-Your father, the King of the Seven Kingdoms, the man who made you heir to the Iron Throne
Queen Johanna Targaryen née Westerling
Relationship Status: Cordial
-Your father's second wife and Queen Consort.
Prince Daemon Targaryen
Relationship Status: Animosity
-"The Rogue Prince", your uncle and your father's younger brother. He had been heir before you.
Lady Alicent Hightower
Relationship Status: A Steady Relationship
-Daughter of the hand of the king and your oldest friend by far. Your Lady.
Syrax
Relationship Status: Devoted
-Your bounded Dragon. She has yellow scales and green eyes. A Medium sized dragon but it is growing larger
Ser Otto Hightower
Relationship Status: Neutral
-Hand of the King to your father.
Ser Gwayne Hightower Relationship Status: Hesistant Ally
-Alicent's eldest brother.
Knight-Commander Harrold Westerling
Relationship Status: Loyal
-Kingsguard, your former sworn shield, now Knight-Commander of the Kingsguard
Ser Raylon Tarly
Relationship Status: Sworn Protector
-Kingsguard, your new sworn shield.
Lord Lyman Beesbury
Relationship Status: Loyal
-Master of Coin on the Small Council
Lord Lyonel Strong
Relationship Status: Neutral
-Master of Laws on the Small Council
Lord Corlys Velyarion
Relationship Status: Fustrated
-"The Sea Snake" Now Former Master of Ships on the Small Council, Lord of Driftmark, Husband of Rhaenys Targaryen "The Queen Who Never Was".
Lady Jeyne Arryn
Relationship Status: Ally
- Ruling Lady of the Vale, your cousin on your late mother's side.
Lady Rhea Royce
Relationship Status: Ally
-Heir to Runestone, former wife of Daemon Targaryen
Alys Rivers
Relationship Status: ???
- A Servant at Harrenhal
Jessamyn Redfort Relationship Status: Cordial
- Lady Jeyne Arryn's Handmaiden and Lover
Isembard Arryn
Status: Hesitant Ally
- Heir to the Cadet Branch of House Arryn in Gulltown. Something of a business partner to Rhaenyra
Voting Closed, thank you everyone who voted, update will be out likely this weekend.
Adhoc vote count started by veteranMortal on Jul 26, 2024 at 10:11 AM, finished with 106 posts and 60 votes.
[X] Plan Hopeless Romantic
-[X] Visenya Reborn
-[X] To become Queen (Mandatory) -[X] To become a Knight (Visenya Reborn only)
-[X] To find Love
-[X] To sit on the Small Council
[X] Duty & Delight
-[X] The Realm's Delight (Canon)
-[X] To become Queen (Mandatory)
-[X] To convince Alicent to ride on Syrax (The Realm's Delight only)
-[X] To sit on the Small Council
-[X] To find Love
[X] Plan Be Queen, Eat Hotcakes, and Lie
-[X] The Realm's Delight (Canon)
-[X] To become Queen (Mandatory)
-[X] To convince Alicent to ride on Syrax (The Realm's Delight only)
-[X] To have an Adventure
-[X] [Write-In:] To drink life to the lees and to have it all, the best songs and plays, the best hunts and tournies, the best balls and feasts, the best puzzles and contraptions, a palace of wonders beyond any before
[X] Plan Hopeless Romantic
-[X] Visenya Reborn
-[X] To become Queen (Mandatory) -[X] To become a Knight (Visenya Reborn only)
-[X] To find Love
-[X] To sit on the Small Council
Turn 1: A New Day
Gain Trait: Strong
If you were a man you would probably be a knight already. You cut a striking figure, tall, solidly built, with muscles like a maiden's dream as they like to say. Though in your experince you have more than a fair few boys and men starring at you along with the women when you train, some just to gawk and mock you of course, but your strength has won you your share of admirers. Your strength is remarkable for your age, practically unheard of for a woman. With proper training you could become one of the deadliest fighters in the Seven Kingdoms. While luck or the gods made this strength relatively easy for you to acquire, it is something that needs constant work to maintain. If you don't train enough your skills with the sword may start to fade, and your hard earned muscles will begin to disappear.
Gain Trait: Defiant
Many men call you stubborn, but that's not true. You can be quite agreeable when you want to be, it's just when the men in your life try to confine you to a life of pretty dresses and act as a broodmare for some lord you were forced to marry to better your family's position. You are a Targaryen, you can command dragons and their blood flows through your viens, why should you be expected to behave like some common noble woman? You do not take kindly to being told you can't do something because of your gender and you make it known, sometimes loudly. More often then not you do what you see as best no matter what anyone says, even if it may cost you politically.
Gain Trait: Romantic
Your grandfather and grandmother loved each other deeply and passionately, as did your mother and father. While both relationships ended tragically, that love has left an impression on you. Whatever your feelings on having children, you believe love is a vital part of life. You want more than a husband who does his duty, or a night of passion with someone you care little for, you want love, you want romance. You want men to compete for your hand, you want women to offer you the favors as you compete in a tourney. While you're aware the romances in the stories, are just that, stories. You want some of that in your life. The person you fall in love with doesn't need to be the person you marry, but the thought of being trapped in a loveless marriage without anyone to find solace in leaves you terrified. And you know if you ever do fall in love, you would be hard pressed to even consider putting them aside, no matter the complications that may arise.
Gain Dream: To become Queen
Gain Dream: To become a Knight
Gain Dream: To find Love
Gain Dream: To sit on the Small Council
Gain 10 Stress
+10: Your Mother, Aemma Targaryen née Arryn has just died in a horrible manner, along with your newborn baby brother.
Your father may call you Visenya Reborn but you have come to believe you more take after your late grandfather Baelon than anyone else. Baelon the Brave they called him, who once smacked the Black Dread on the nose as a child, rode the mighty Vhagar, and once competed in a tourney at Old Oaks as a mystery knight called the Silver Fool. He was loud and bold, he loved deeply and lived fearless. Your had barely celebrated your fourth nameday when Baelon died. Your memories of him are few and dim, but the stories you've heard about the man have shaped much of your life.
Like many girls you dreamed of knights in your youth, but while most dreamed of future husbands and lovers, you wanted to become one. Your dreams were filled with visions of you as a knight, fighting in tourneys, saving fair maidens from dangerous brigands or Dornish raiders, covering yourself in glory and honors.
Of course when you told people of your dreams they smiled and laughed and told you that was impossible for a woman, even a Targaryen Princess. Your own father admired your boldness but refused to allow you to train at arms, but you were not one to take no for an answer. You took matters into your own hand, training in secret with a wooden sword, getting into fights with stablehands and other boys around the Red Keep. The Kingsguard and your father all tried to get you to stop but you proved too stubborn and clever for their efforts. After the Maesters complained to the King about having to set your nose again, and pressure from your late mother, the King finally gave and agreed to let you train with proper training swords and lances under a Master-at-arms. The first day you trained openly caused quite the scandal, but you didn't care.
The training and your ambitions fustrated your father to no end. Having a daughter cross swords with men was something of a scandal among the lords in King's Landing. Once your father remarked that you would be the prefect heir, were you a boy, but as it was, you were simply a massive unending headache for him. His words were rather amusing in retrospect.
At the age of four and ten you are probably less trained then most boys trying to become a knight at your age but what you lack in experince you make up for in strength. Perhaps that strength is part of the reason your father decided to make you heir. Rhaenys is a skilled dragonrider and fierce woman but she has never been a warrior in her own right, not like you. Perhaps the Iron Throne needs a warrior to sit upon it. And you will be that warrior.
As you look at the lords gathered in the throne room, their faces a sea of curiosty, revlusion, respect, indifference and dismay, you think back to one of your dreams, perhaps one of your biggest ones, to become a Knight. Even when your father agreed to let you train he told you this dream was impossible. No knight of any merit would agree to it and no Septon would ever bless you. It simply was not the way of things for a woman But how many had said the same thing about a woman being heir to the Iron Throne? If you can do one thing men said was impossible for those of the fairer sex, surely you could do two? And a knighthood would go a long way towards proving you were worthy for the throne.
The Lords swore their vows to you and your father, promising to be faithful to king Viserys and his heir, the Princess Rhaenyra. Pleading fealty towards the two of you and to defend you in your times of need. You believe the more honorable among them took those oaths seriously, though you hope they will not be tested for a long time.
After the ceremony, most of the lords left and returned to their own lands, with things slowly returning to normal within King's Landing. Almost. Grief still clung to your father tighter than any cloak, the loss of your mother weighing at him during small council meetings. Much of his passion and joy are gone, and you're unsure if they will ever return.
Your uncle Daemon it turns out did not just leave the city. He took the city guard with him as well. All 2,000 Goldcloaks marched out of their barracks the day he left and onto awaiting ships. From what you understand Daemon and his small army are currently squatting on Dragonstone, your rightful seat as heir. Some have pushed your father to remove him, by force if needs must, but most have agreed that would cause more problems then it would solve. For now it has been decided the best course of action is to simply let him be. Let Daemon get over his childish fustrations in his own time. Various soldiers from nearby lords such as Stokeworth have been brought in to fill the hole left by the Goldcloaks for the time being.
For you, fustratingly little has changed since becoming heir. Your day to day life is largely the same and you are still just your father's cupbearer in the Small Council. You may be present when decisions are made, but you have no voice. Sometimes you catch yourself looking at Daemon's empty spot in the council and wondering if you could one day replace him and take over as commander of the City Watch. It could be a good use of your talents, it would give you an actual voice on the small council and it could be a good way of showing you are prepared for being a ruling queen. Claiming that seat, or any other seat on the Small Council for that matter, is no simple task however, and you know asking now would just be pointless. However you can't help but find yourself wondering what could be.
Third Season, 112 AC
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.
Conversations (Pick Two)
Conservations can establish relationships, change existing ones for better or worse, unlock new Actions, reduce stress, or gain allies, among other things. As heir to the throne, all of these things can be very important to use so it is important for us to avoid isolating ourselves through silence. Note that this does not mean these will be the only two people we will be talking with this turn but assume that most of those off screen conversations have little effect on the story.
[] Speak with Viserys
Since your conversation in the crypts and the ceremony, you and your father had no spoken much in truth, as if there was a wall of grief between the two of you. You both lost the most important woman in your lives that day, perhaps you can bond together over your shared grief. Build a new relationship, as father and daughter, king and heir.
[] Speak with Alicent
While you and Alicent haven't spoken much recently, you know there is no one else in the Red Keep who would understand the pain you are going through right now better than her. Perhaps Alicent can help you deal with the grief of losing your mother. Maybe you could even begin to repair your strained friendship.
[] Speak with Otto Hightower
You've heard, third hand admittedly, that it was Otto who first pushed for you to be named heir. The night your mother died in fact, before Daemon had disgraced himself even. You can't help but find this rather curious. Maybe you should talk with him, figure out what motivated him and why he thinks you are worthy to be heir.
[] Speak with Gwayne Hightower
Alicent's brother was in the city for the tourney that was suppose to mark the day your brother was born. Daemon ended up giving him quite the hit in the tilts. You don't know much about Gwayne. In truth, you don't think she knows much about him either. He will return to Hightower shortly. Perhaps you should use this time to get to know him. He is a knight after all and perhaps he has some advice that could help you.
[] Ser Harrold Westerling
Harrold has been by your side since you were a child. He has been a friend and your stalwart shield for years. He has never been supportive of your efforts to learn how to fight and even less so of your desire to become a knight. Mayhaps his thoughts have changed now that you are heir to the throne.
[] Lord Corlys Velyarion
From what little you know, it seems like the Sea Snake was one of the least supportive voices on the Small Council for your father's decision to name you heir, perhaps still bitter over his wife being overlooked by the Great Council of 101. If you could try and begin to win him over, that would go a long ways to shoring up your support. On the Small Council at least. He may also have advice on your own aspirations for a seat on the council as well.
[] Rhaenys Targaryen
The Queen who never was. Had her father outlived the old King, it is highly likely that she would be the ruling Queen by now. In many ways you have everything that has been denied to her, twice over. No doubt there is tension, perhaps you could smooth things over.
[] Lord Lyonel Strong
The Master of Laws and lord of Harrenhal. A Stalwart voice on the council and man you know generally strives to do what is best for the Kingdom. He may be able to give you some good advice on how to earn a seat on the council, and if nothing else his support would be useful.
[] Write-in
Subject to QM approval, has to have a reasonable chance of being in King's Landing.
Actions (Pick Two)
[] Relax
A lot has happened recently. Your mother has died and you have been suddenly thrust into a position that will one day make you the most powerful person in Westeros. That's a lot for one person to handle in a short period of time. 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.
[] Study the history of the Small Council
King Jaehaerys ruled for over five decades. His small council, particularly during the years Septon Barth served as Hand, keep decently detailed records of it's decisions and some of the activities of it's members. Perhaps if you understood better how the Small Council functioned it could help you in your efforts to attain a seat one day.
[] Study Visenya Targaryen
In truth you know little about the woman your father likes to compare you to so often. You know she was a warrior, a dragonrider, and that she helped conquer Westeros alongside Aegon. She was also the mother of the tyrant Meagor the Cruel. Beyond that most of what you heard seems to be rumor. Some say she was a sorceress who used dark magics to kill King Aenys, some even claim that Meagor was conceived through such magic, but that can't be true, can it? Perhaps if you knew more about Visenya you might be better prepared for the struggles that you face as a woman and a warrior.
[] Train
The Death of your mother and the ceremony where you were named heir have kept you out of the training yard for over a week, and it's been nearly a month since last practiced with your horse and lance. Your strength and skills are like the very weapons you wield. If neglected, they can grow weak and dull. Just as a sword needs whetstone, so too do you need training to keep yourself sharp
[] Train with Syrax
Syrax has grown bigger in recent years. Part of you suspects it has something to do with your own growth but with dragons you can never be certain. While Syrax is more powerful you've noticed he's not turning as sharply as you expect. A few flights with Syrax will help the both of you adjust to his size and increase your bond.
[] 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 "unbefiting a princess" but as heir to the throne, shouldn't you have a chance let loose and explore the city you'll one day rule? And if nothing else it will be great practice if you ever to need to sneak for more adventerous pursuits.
[] Try and gather info on Daemon's activities
The Small Council seems content to just let Daemon brood for the time being, but Dragonstone is your castle, you would like to know what he's doing with it. Perhaps some of the fishermen and merchants at the docks might have a hint of what your uncle is up to.
[] Write-in
Subject to QM approval QM's Note: Thanks to @Azel for agreeing to beta this. I'll have a character sheet up this weekend. For this turn I'll have voting open right away though please try not to all jump on the first plan posted.
[X] Plan: Solidify our Position -[X] Speak with Viserys -[X] Speak with Alicent -[X] Study the history of the Small Council -[X] Try and gather info on Daemon's activies
[X] Plan: Solidify our Position -[X] Speak with Viserys -[X] Speak with Alicent -[X] Study the history of the Small Council -[X] Try and gather info on Daemon's activies
For a time the worries of the world seem to melt away as Syrax banks through the clouds, a cool mist washing over your face. The troubles that plagued you, your father and even the realm seemed so small from up here. Why did it matter if a few lords disapproved of you being named heir when the mere sight of you flying through the air would be enough to make even the most defiant bend the knee? Who cared if the Triarchy was gaining ground in the Stepstones if you could turn their fleet into so much burning timber in a single night? Did any of the burdens of court really matter if you could just fly away at anytime and go anywhere you wanted. The only ones who could stop you would be your fellow dragon riders.
Of course even now, in the back of your mind you knew these thoughts were absurd, but up in the air, so high that even King's Landing seemed small, absurd and foolish thoughts had a way of seeming just a bit less absurd.
Riding a dragon was a singularly unique experience. Nothing in your life really compared to it. Even beyond the simple fact you were flying atop something far larger than any beast known to man, when you rode a horse you are always aware that you and the animal are just rider and mount. With Syrax it's not always so simple. While commands are needed, she often knows where you're going before you even give the order. And sometimes, when you're in a dive or pulling off some dangerous stunt, you feel less like rider and mount and more like one being in two bodies. Your will is her will. Her pain is your pain. The feeling always seems absurd when you're on the ground, but not right now.
The two of you pulled up from your latest dive, well above the waves of Blackwater Bay. Syrax letting out a short, sharp growl of approval. For months the two of you had been turning and pulling up either too sharply or not hard enough. Dragons never stopped growing. The dragonpit may slow the growth of some but they never completely stopped growing. It's why the wings of Vhagar could plunge an entire town into shadows as she passed. Though Syrax's growth had been different than normal. While she was still smaller than the likes of Dreamfyre or Meleys, she was approaching the latter's size sooner than the Dragonkeepers expected. Sooner than even Syrax herself had expected, judging by your recent issues. The dragonkeepers claimed it was a reflection of your changes in the past few years. As you had become more of a warrior, so too had Syrax.
It made a certain kind of sense. Syrax was young. While you had not hatched her, she was barely larger than a horse when you found her and you had been the one to give Syrax her name. The two of you grew up together to an extent. It would make sense for the dragon to reflect it's partner.
Whatever the reason for the changes, a few weeks of training and flying had allowed the two of you to finally adjust to Syrax's increased weight and size. Giving the both of you quite the workout in the process.
Bond With Syrax Improved
Dragon Riding Improved
Curiosity more than anything else drove you to the tower of the Hand.
You knew Otto Hightower for almost as long as you can remember. He was your Father's hand after all, arguably the second most powerful person in the Seven Kingdoms, and his daughter Alicent was your closest friend even if that friendship had become rather complicated these past two years. But you and Otto hardly ever talked and only on very rare occasions did that amount to more than a few words being exchanged. And judging by Alicent's reaction to your fights and sword training, he didn't seem like they kind of man who would approve of you.
So why did he push to make you heir?
"Good Afternoon, Princess," Otto greeted as Rhaenyra stepped into his apartment within the Tower, Ser Westerling closing the door behind her, "to what do I owe the pleasure of this visit?"
Otto Hightower was standing by his writing desk, the room lit up by a soft orange glow from the late day sun.
"Many of the lords in the Red Keep are whispering that you were the first to push for me to be named heir," you remarked, "On the same day my mother died in fact. While I am not ungrateful, I am curious as to why."
"Princess, I would advise against listening to gossip of the court," Otto replied, his face and tone unreadable, "Rumors in the Red Keep spread and change faster than they would among fish mongers. Besides, it was your father's decision alone that made you heir after your uncle disgraced himself."
"And you were the one who told my father about Daemon's 'heir for a day' comment," you retort. "You told the entire small council about it."
"I was simply doing my duty as Hand of the King." Otto's voice gaining the slightest defensive edge to it.
You switch tactics, your posture becoming less stiff.
"I simply wish to know what it is I have done to earn such a vote of confidence from you, Lord Hand," you say with a smile.
You don't know what larger game Otto had in mind here or if indeed there was a larger game here at all. Otto's hatred of Daemon and vice versa was well known. But you were still curious why he pushed so quickly after your mother died.
Otto relaxed slightly as he met your gaze.
"It was simple matter really, Alicent and others have always spoken highly of your character, and while you may have caused your father fustration more times then I care to recall, you have never given anyone cause to think you disloyal to him," Otto explained. "The same could not be said of your uncle. Daemon's actions with the city watch confirmed many of my worst fears about the man and with your mother's tragic passing, it did not seem safe to leave only one life standing between Daemon and the Iron Throne."
You admittedly only half paid attention to most what Otto said after the first sentence.
"Alicent speaks of me still?" You said in open surprised, "But we've hardly talked for nearly two years."
Alicent's disagreements with your desire to prove yourself a warrior and eventually a knight had caused a massive breakdown in your once strong friendship. To hear she still spoke of you to her father, and positively at that, was quite the surprise.
"Alicent thinks the way you live your life is entirely unbecoming for a woman of your status," Otto admitted. "As do many people at court. Most fathers would not allow their daughters to get away with a tenth of what you do."
"Most daughters don't have my strength," you countered, resisting the urge to flex a well muscled arm to demonstrate.
"Nor are they raised to ride dragons. So perhaps it is not my place to judge," Otto admitted dismissively as he looked out the window. "The point is there is a clear difference in character between you and your uncle."
"Most of your fights involve you protecting servant girls from randy stable hands or squaring off against a young squire who thinks he knows better," Otto explained. "Whereas Daemon's fights lead to hundreds of people losing their limbs or their heads in a brutal slaughter of our own citizens. It is not hard to see which would make a better heir for our king."
There was almost always venom in Otto's voice when he talked to or about your uncle but now it seemed even more pronounced then before.
"You're saying Daemon is a threat to my father? They're brothers. They've always been close, Daemon would never dare."
"Does it not disturb you that when Daemon left, the city watch followed him to Dragonstone without question?" Otto asked in a low voice. "Almost every single man in a gold cloak abandoned this city and their king without a second thought."
That had been troubling you. Seeing two thousand Gold Cloaks leaving the city was quite the sight, even from the Red Keep. A few highborn officers tried to get them to stay, but they were all ignored. The men loved their Rogue Prince and were willing to follow him wherever he went.
"Viserys gave Daemon command of those men to protect the city," Otto went on, "and instead he builds his own personal army. With every action he takes, he seeks to undermine your father's authority."
If there was one thing you thought you were certain about with your uncle, it was how much he loved your father. Whatever their disagreements, which were often many, the two loved each other and were loyal to one another.
But how loyal could Daemon be if he was building his own army right under your father's nose? How much could he truly love your father if he was willing to mock his dead son in a brothel?
"Do you think Daemon is plotting rebellion?" you questioned. The Small Council had largely viewed Daemon's occupation of Dragonstone, your island, as little more than a nuisance. If Otto was right, then that approach seemed wildly misguided.
"No," Otto assured you. "Even your uncle would not be so foolhardy as to wage a war with only two thousand men and a dragon. This is a farce designed to emberass your father and make him look weak. Nothing more. But I am confident he would have done something drastic, had he remained in the city and remained heir. And in truth, I'm not sure how safe either you or your father will be should he return to King's landing."
"That is quite the accusation, my lord hand. To suggest my uncle would slaughter his own family for the crown!" You were aghast.
You and your uncle had an increasingly rocky relationship but the suggestion he would kill both of you felt absurd.
"He would not be the first of your line to do so" Otto replied wearily, the two of you staring at each other for a long tense moment. "The fact we are even having to debate this with any degree of seriousness is proof enough that Daemon is too dangerous to be let back into the city, wouldn't you agree?"
The question gave you pause. Otto was hardly unbiased here, the hatred between him and Daemon had been clear for years. He had always wanted Daemon off the Small Council. But it was hard to overlook the fact that Daemon was currently occupying a seat that rightfully belonged to you, using an army he had made loyal to himself first and foremost.
"So you're saying we should ask my father to exile Daemon?" You asked skeptically.
You could never see your father going for that, even now after everything that has happened.
"Nothing so drastic, princess," the Hand of the King assured you. "But when Daemon eventually grows bored of Dragonstone, the King must be firm that Daemon is to return to Runestone and his wife"
It could just be Otto taking advantage of the more unsavory aspects of Daemon's character to paint him as a monster. It could be more that Daemon was impulsive and selfish. The Gold Cloaks were loyal to him because he liked having an army of thugs at his beck and call rather than due to any sinister plan. Or Otto could be right, and Daemon had designs on the Iron Throne and he'd been building an army that answered to him alone.
How do you reply to Otto Hightower?
[] Agree. Daemon was plotting something and he cannot be allowed to return to the city.
[] Agree in part. Daemon wouldn't betray your father but he is dangerous and should not be allowed to return, lest he create more problems.
[] Say something non-commital.
[] Disagree. Whatever Daemon's faults, he is family and he cannot be treated like that.
[] Write-In (Subject to QM approval)
Many wrote about Visenya Targaryen but frustratingly they all seemed to lack for details. They talked of how Visenya was Aegon's elder sister-wife. A warrior who wielded Dark Sister and with Vhagar she helped burn down most of the castles in Dorne after the death of her sister. Mentions of her after the Conquest are frustratingly sparse until after Aegon's death, where the records accuse her of poisoning her nephew, King Aenys and ensuring her son Meagor took power. With many records painting her as a cunning sorceress who aided much of her son's early cruelties, a few even suggesting that Maegor himself was not Aegon the Conqueror's true born son but instead had been created by Visenya using some kind of vile blood magic.
Which, honestly was so absurd it somehow became downright amusing.
For a while you feared this would be the limits of your research and that all that was left of Visenya's record were tales of her being a witch and kin-slayer, until you realized who was writing most of the books you had been using for your research. Septon Barth, Grand Maester Allar, Archmaester Crey. All men who's works were respected across the Seven Kingdoms. All men who had served during the reign of King Jaehaerys.
Meagor was a usurper who had killed two of your great-grandfather's brothers and forcibly married one of his sisters. The old king had more reason than most to hate his uncle, but that also meant those who served him and Maesters of the citadel of the time had motivation to exaggerate the worst cruelties of Meagor's reign and slander anyone who had been loyal to him. Such as Meagor's mother, Visenya.
So, you dug deeper into the Red Keep's libraries, looking for records and tomes written during the reign of King Aenys or even the Conqueror himself. Your search took the better part of a week and annoyed several Maesters who insisted you were interrupting important studies, but eventually you came across some rather interesting finds. Records from the Small Council of King Aenys and the writings of Grand Maester Gawen.
These works painted a far more complex picture of Queen Visenya. She had been the founder of the Kingsguard, creating it after having to defend Aegon from Dornish assassins. Aegon had resisted at first, until Visenya forced the issue. Visenya had often held court while Aegon was on Dragonstone or taking part in a royal progress, and she didn't just rule in Aegon's name either. There is more than one record of her passing some law or making a decree by her own right, in her own name. Indeed, it seemed during the later years of his reign, Aegon had given over both building the Red Keep and actual ruling over to Visenya while he basically retired to Dragonstone.
Visenya was much more than a consort. She had basically been Aegon's equal and she had defined many aspects of what it meant to rule the Seven Kingdoms. This would be a great argument for your own rule. Women had written many of the laws of this kingdom and founded the order that guards the king. If they could do all that, why not have one sit the Iron Throne in her own right? Visenya had basically done that already.
There was one issue though. None of the sources you've found yet could dispute the claims that Visenya had murdered Aenys to allow her own son to take over. If that was true then any lord could just point to Visenya's sorcery and kin slaying as proof that women weren't fit to rule.
Of course, it was entirely possible that Visenya hadn't poisoned her nephew after all. The record were clearly willing to forget and distort her memory as they saw fit. If Visenya's better deeds were all but forgotten, who's to say she was truly to blame for the worst deeds the histories had ascribed to her?
But that would require even further research.
Learning Increased
Action Unlock: Investigate the Death of King Aenys
"Princess Rhaenyra, your grace" Lord Commander Ryam introduced as you stepped in the room.
Your father was sitting alone in your parent's-in his room, stripped of almost all refinery and dressed in a simple white shirt and dark pants. He was in the middle of carving out another building for his grand model of the Freehold's capital city.
Working on this model always brought him joy and a sense of meaning but as your father looked at you this evening, eyes looked hollow, grief etched into his face.
"Greetings, father," you said as Redwyne left and closed the door behind you, "I have been doing some research into Queen Visenya and I thought you might be interested in what I've learned."
If there was one thing your father had true passion for that was left in this world, it was uncovering the secrets of history.
"Really?" Your father stared at you with unmasked surprised. "I am glad to hear it, but what sparked this sudden interest in history?"
"You compared me to her so often, I figured it best I learn more about this woman I apparently have so much in common with," you reply with a small smile.
Your father lets out a half chuckle. "For the record, I was only referring to your martial interests. I was not accusing you of being a sorcerer, Rhaenyra."
"That is good to hear," you replied.
There is a shadow of a smile across your father's face but it does nothing to light up his eyes.
There is an awkward, painful silence for a moment before you go on.
"Did you know Visenya founded the Kingsguard?" you asked.
"No," Viserys admitted with a small amount of surprise, "I was not aware of that, that is remarkable."
"Apparently King Aegon believed his guards from Dragonstone would be enough. Visenya disagreed and thought he needed proper knights protecting him," you explained. "To prove her point she drew her blade on her husband one day, drawing blood from his cheek before any of his guards could react."
"Fascinating, she sounds like a remarkable woman," your father replied with a tired voice.
The room feel silent again, Viserys looking caught halfway between working on his model and talking with you, seemingly too weary to do either.
"I'm sorry, I make for a poor conversationalist right now," your father admitted wearily.
"It's fine, you have every right to grieve, father," you reply warmly. "I know how much you loved her, and how much she loved you."
Viserys put down his tools and turned towards you, sorrow filling his eyes.
"I do not think I will ever be the same man I once was," he confessed, "Your mother's death is like a wound that won't heal."
"Everything feels colder now, doesn't it?" You asked, dragging up your own grief.
Your father looked at you with wide, sad eyes.
"Doesn't matter the room, or the time of day, or how many people are in it, this whole castle has felt colder and emptier since she passed," you admit.
Your relationship with your father had been troubled for some time. There was screaming. Shouting. Threats of punishment. You constantly lashing out against an unfair order of things, fighting him tooth and nail just for a chance to be yourself. But your mother? Your mother was always kind. Always warm to you. Even when she didn't approve of your choices. She loved you both with all her heart.
"Yes, I know exactly how you feel," your father admitted, his expression seeming less hollow as he nodded. "The first week after she passed, this entire place felt like a tomb."
"That pleases me to hear," you wipe away tears as you speak, "To know someone else understands my grief."
"I feel the same," your father confessed. "Thank you for reaching out to me, Rhaenyra. I do not think I would have had the courage to talk to you first."
"If you need someone to talk to, I am here for you, father," your voice full of sympathy as you spoke.
"That is good to hear," your father replied.
He still looked miserable and depressed. that was unlikely to change anytime soon, but there was a light in his eyes now that wasn't there when you arrived.
"Your mother would have been so proud of you. You know that." Your father said unprompted. "You handled yourself excellently during the ceremony."
"Even with my armor?" You said with a smirk.
You could see your father wince for just a split second.
"You were honest to yourself, even in front of dozens of lords. That is to be commended," Viserys acknowledged.
"Thank you," you replied.
"How do you feel about the ceremony?" your father asked. "I had not thought to ask before. I imagine it was a lot for you."
"I think it went great," you replied evenly, unsure of what to say.
"Even with the cold looks some of those lords gave you?" your father asked.
You looked at your father in surprise. You had not thought he saw that.
"People think that just because I do not lash out at every insult or bit of tongue wagging that I am blind to them," your father replied, seemingly reading your thoughts before you could put them into words. "I saw how some of them looked at you. They should be thankful none of them were stupid enough to say anything."
"Should I be worried?" You asked.
If there were lords openly holding you in contempt, how many were insulting you behind you back?
"No," your father replied dismissively. "They will come to accept you in time. Besides. Their opinions matter far less than their oaths. But I can understand if you feel upset about how some of them behaved."
The thought had been bugging you on and off since the ceremony. Lannisters, Fossoways, Tarbecks, and others all starring at you with contempt as you stood before them in your armor. Barely hiding their disdain as they swore their oaths.
You've grown used to men holding you in contempt these past few years, but this was something else. Something that might be dangerous in time. Who knows how many lords holding their Queen Regnant to be in all but naked contempt? You weren't sure how to feel about this, a dozen different thoughts striking you at once.
How do you feel about their contempt for you?
[] [Defiant] The disdain of men has never held you back before, you will not let it bother you now.
[] Father is right. They will come to accept you in time.
[] You will prove them wrong and that you are worthy of the throne.
[] You can't help but worry. Could they rebel against you? Might they already be plotting to do so?
[] Write-In (Subject to QM approval)
Relationship with King Viserys Improved. New Status: Warm
QM's Note: How much an action or a skill improves a relationship and or Rhaenyra herself is situational, depending on both the circumstances and Rhaenyra's traits. Comforting her father now is going to have more an impact than the two basically waiting six months to have a real conversation like they did in canon. Also no plan voting this time, not needed.
Adhoc vote count started by Teen Spirit on Jul 30, 2024 at 2:21 PM, finished with 88 posts and 36 votes.
[X] About the Lords: [Defiant] If you were a man, they would praise you for the very same things that they now wag their tongues about and you will not settle for their mere acceptance just to have your memory tainted by their slander like Visenya. The bards will sing of a warrior queen and your name will live long after your detractors have been forgotten. You will make sure of that.
[X] Write-In: Responsibility has not worked, nor can he truly be trusted to govern, so too will a distant posting be considered tantamount to exile. Perhaps a military campaign to settle his humors and allow him to excise his ardor. Recommend that Daemon be sent to subjugate the Valean Mountain Tribes or the Stepstones.
[X] To Otto: Agree that something should be done, but not that exile is the right option. Daemon can plot and gather power in Runestone just as well as in Kings Landing. Maybe even easier.
[X] Agree in part, but disagree with his solution. Daemon wouldn't betray your father despite how much of an immature troublemaker and a pain in the side for anyone on the court, BUT you would rather keep him at arm's length in King's Landing, where we can use a measure of control over him to minimize the trouble that his sheneigans will inevitably cause.
[X] [non-commital Write-In] You can appreciate Daemon as dangerous abstractly, in general, but not deliberately harming you, or his brother. You cannot truly imagine it, even as you increasingly cannot decide which of Daemon's audacity, his cruelty, or his fierce passion for his family rules over him, and see the potential dangers to the crown, if not the king.
[X] To Viserys: Some lieges will never be loved, but are still followed because they are respected. Request challenges that will allow Rhaenyra to prove herself, the same way male heirs might be put to the test.
You couldn't quite put it into words for your Father. You knew, no matter how sympathetic he was, he would not be able to fully grasp why you were so frustrated with the lords. If he had been this inclined with the sword and lance at your age, the lords of the realm would have loved him, praised him. The Great Council might have been even more of an overwhelming victory for him than it had already been. If you had been born Baelon Targaryen, the lords of the realm would be singing of your glory, encouraging their daughters to give you their favors at any tourney you entered, and perhaps even naming their own sons after you.
But since you had been born Rhaenyra, the same skills that would have won you praise now earn you scorn and mockery.
Visenya proved that a Targaryen woman could become a warrior, but she also proved that once they were gone the men of the realm would work to diminish and tarnish their legacy.
You needed to be more than a warrior. You needed to be a knight. The kind of knight bards would sing about for generations. A figure of legend like Symeon Star-Eyes, that girls would look up to long after the lords mocking you behind your back were dead and forgotten.
For that to happen, you needed to do more than just train. You needed to prove yourself to the kingdoms. Show that you were a warrior and that you demanded their respect.
New Actions Unlocked
"Responsibility has not worked, nor can Daemon truly be trusted to govern, and exile would only make him worse, even if we somehow convinced my father to go along with such a thing," you declared. "But perhaps there is a way to make use of his aggression."
Otto Hightower stared at you with a skeptical expression.
"Few can deny Daemon's skills as a warrior. I think they would be better put to work fighting against the enemies of the Throne," you explained. "Send Daemon and those loyal to him on a military campaign in the mountains of the Vale, or against the pirates in the Stepstones. A few years of bloodshed might exhaust my uncle of his worst impulses."
Otto let out a humorless chuckle. "If you think giving a man command of his own war will cool his blood, Princess, you are very much-"
He trailed off for a moment, a thoughtful look in his eyes.
"Then again, Lord Corlys has been pushing more and more for the Crown to take action against the Triarchy," Otto remarked. "If we sent Daemon and his men against the Stepstones, that will keep Daemon out of our hair for several years and appease the Master of Ships with minimal cost to the Crown."
Otto looked at you, his gaze growing more intent for a moment, as though he were appraising you somehow. For what and why you could not say.
"I think this idea of yours is rather clever, Princess," Otto replied. There was a tiny smile on his face though he almost seemed to be hiding it as he turned his head away.
"Of course there is little we could until Daemon grows bored of brooding on Dragonstone," Otto went on. "And if he's successful, if, then when he returns, his victories might give him even more sway at court and with his Grace. Still, I can't deny the utility of sending Daemon to fight the Sea Snake's wars. I will keep this in mind the next time Lord Corlys brings up the issue."
"I am glad to hear it, Lord Hand," you replied politely.
You weren't sure if much or anything were come of this conversation, but you did notice a small change in Otto's gaze as you left. It was small, barely more than a hint, but you could swear you could almost see approval in his eyes.
Relationship with Otto Hightower Improved
Lord Commander Ryam Redwyne of the Kingsguard was dead. His death was about as far removed from your mothers as you could get. He was an older man, had been sick for a while, and he had been able to pass away peacefully in his sleep. It was strange. A man who had dedicated himself to the life of a warrior and knight was able to live a long and peaceful life, whereas a woman who had never once held a sword died when she was far too young, blood staining much of her bed.
The choice for new Lord Commander was obvious to everyone at court. Your sworn shield, Ser Harrold Westerling. He had served both your father and Jaehaerys faithful and you knew he had the right temperament to be a leader. You still couldn't help but feel sad. He had been protecting you for over a decade now, he was a kind man and your friend. He would still be around of course, but things wouldn't be the same. He had a duty to your father and the whole Kingsguard now.
Of course, with the Kingsguard down to six , it was time to select someone new to wear the white cloak. Someone new to be your sworn shield. To protect you against assassins and other threats. Fittingly, Lord Commander Westerling and Ser Otto Hightower have seen fit to have you make the final decision on who should be your new shield.
You look down at them now, seven knights standing before you. Six with banners from various notable houses across the seven kingdoms and one with barely more than his armor.
Westerling stood at your side as you assessed the men. Otto pacing behind you as your cousin Rhaenys chose to watch everything from a balcony above you for reasons you could only guess at.
"Ser Desmond Caryon has shown great valor and skill in various tourneys across the realm," Ser Westerling explained as you gazed down at the knight in yellow. "On his way here through the Kingswood he was able to bring a would be poacher to justice."
"Fine work," You say with a hint of warmth in your voice. "A true knight should always strive to serve the realm, no matter their current task."
Westerling nodded in approval at your sentiment.
The Knight Commander had already put all of the candidates through trials, so the man must be a skilled knight, but it seemed he seen little action beyond tourneys. Though bringing the would be poacher to justice does speak to some sense of duty.
You could feel Rhaenys gaze upon you as the next knight stepped forward.
"Ser Rymun Mallister, son of Lymond Mallister of Seaguard," Ser Westerling introduced a knight in blue. "Winner of the Melee at Cidar Hall. Ser Rymun was knighted at the age of eight and ten."
Again, their experince was little more than tourneys, but you've seen your share of melees. They were fairly brutal knock down affairs, arguably more dangerous than a joust. Winning a melee proved this man was decent with a sword at least. And being knighted so young means the man must have shown a decent amount of talent.
"It's important to remember these men come from powerful houses," Otto advised. "Important allies of the crown, allies who would be greatly honored by one of their own joining the Kingsguard."
It was clear that the actual skills of the men before you mattered little to Otto Hightower. He was more concerned about the political gain for the crown.
Next was the only one without any heraldry behind him. His armor was dented and scratched in many places, a few pieces looking rather mismatched. Everything about this man said he was a man of meager mans, barely a noble if that. And yet this man, Ser Criston Cole, had defeated your uncle at the tourney.
"Ser Criston Cole, son of the steward of the Lord of Blackhaven," the Knight Commander said. "Knighted for his efforts against the Dornish incursions."
"You fought in the Dornish marches?" You asked with a disarming smile.
This was an interesting surprise. Someone with actual experince in combat. Ser Criston cut quite the striking figure as well. Younger than the other knights, and a mostly shaven face with striking dornish features. And his smile alone was proof the man had more charm then the others before her.
"I fought for two years as foot soldier," Cole explained. "Ser Arlan Dondarrion knighted me after we razed two watchtowers along the Boneway."
Next up was a Tarly knight dressed in Green.
"Ser Raylon Tarly, cousin to Lord Donald Tarly. He has served his house valiantly for many years," Ser Westerling explained. "And has won great honor in several tourneys."
Another with no actual experience in combat and he looked older than the rest, silver coloring much of his hair. But Tarlys were Marcher lords, proud ones at that. If nothing else this man was trained by people who knew how to fight.
The others would do little to grab your attention, few tourney wins among them and none had combat experience like Ser Criston. This narrowed it down to four options for you. Tarly, Cole, Mallister, or Caryon. Cole was the only one with actual experince in combat, but his low birth meant you would not be winning any allies by choosing him. The Mallister and Tarly knights may not have had combat experince but their training and tourney showings were something to be considered. And Caryon did seem to have a sense of duty to the crown.
A fifth option struck you suddenly. Instead of simply choosing one of these knights you could challenge each of these men to one on one fights, making whoever defeated you the fastest your new sworn shield. You didn't think you had much chance of beating any of these knights, and if you did they really had no business protecting you in the first place, but a duel would give you a chance to figure out what kind of men these knights truly were. And perhaps more importantly, it might show you if these men would be more premissive with your pursuits then most. After all, if they're willing to fight you, that surely must mean they're at least willing to consider taking you seriously as warrior. Mayhaps even agreeing to train you.
Doing this would naturally upset Otto of course, maybe even Ser Westerling as well, but when has that stopped you?
Who will you appoint to the Kingsguard?
[] Ser Desmond Caryon
[] Ser Rymun Mallister
[] Ser Criston Cole
[] Ser Raylon Tarly
[] [Strong] Demand a duel with each man, declaring whoever does best will be your new Sworn Shield (Dice Rolls Involved)
QM's Note: While I generally try to keep to show canon, I will be changing the timing of various events early on to better fit the turn format, otherwise we'd have a quite a bit happening all during Turn 2. Also, the Tarly is an OC. I just felt like it would be remiss to not have the Tarly knight as an option considering their general lore reputation as strong warriors.
For you, the choice was obvious. You had to test these men for yourself.
"Knight Commander," you say with respect as you turn towards your former sworn shield. "Would you say that one of the most important duties of a member of a Kingsguard day to day is guarding the King and the Targaryen family from would-be assassins and bandits along the road?"
Ser Westerling looked contemplative for a second before nodding in agreement.
"While I would not say those are problems we deal with most days," he explained, "save for times of war, assassins and brigands would be our order's main concern. Yes."
"Excellent," you reply as you turn towards one of the nearby servants. "Mira, have the armorer fetch my training gear and some wooden swords."
The servant nodded and hurried away as you turned your attention towards the knights below, Otto and Westerling both staring at you in naked confusion.
"Good sers, I ask you for a moment of patience," you say warmly to the gathered knights. "I will be down there shortly."
"Princess, what are you doing?" Otto's voice was filled with bewilderment as you began to walk away.
"I wish to test these men myself," you explain as you walk. "See how their skills compare to mine."
"What would this accomplish?" Westerling asked, looking completely befuddled. "These men have already been put through the proper trials. Each of them would be more than your match, Princess."
"I am ten and four years of age. I would very much hope so," you reply with a sly smirk, "And I am certain these men could kill any bandit or would be assassin. The question is a matter of speed. The longer a bandit or murderer lives, the longer they pose a threat to my father or myself. I want to see how quickly they can beat me."
Westerling paused, an uncertain expression etched across his face for a moment.
"Princess I must protest this in the strongest terms," Otto argued as he followed after you. "These knights and their families will see this as a grave insult."
You ignored him as you walked on.
By the time you reached the knights, now fitted with training armor and wooden blade in hand, Ser Caron and many of the knights you already gave up on had vanished, apparently storming off in a fury at the idea of having to fight a girl. That suited you just fine. If they were that disapproving now, they would only be a hindrance to you going forward.
Three knights remained. Mallister, Cole, and Tarly. Cole's expression had changed considerably since he first approached you. Gone was the smooth charm of his that almost filled the room when he smiled, replaced with a clear sharp tension in his stance, and a gaze that was at once vacant and staring into her very soul. It was unsettling to behold.
"I have no doubt all of you are fine knights," you say as you hold your training sword. "But I need to see your skills in action. I want to see how quickly each of you could disarm me or knock me off my feet. Whoever does it the quickest and or with the most skill shall be my new sworn shield. Is that agreeable?"
Two knights nodded and gave affirmations, and Ser Cole saying nothing and only giving the smallest of nods.
As Otto Hightower looked on with an expression of intense frustration, you raised your sword as servants prepared training swords for each of the three knights.
"Who shall go first?" You asked.
Ser Rymun Mallister stepped forward.
"Don't expect me to go easy on you, Princess," Ser Mallister declared, "I've seen boys smaller than you knock grown men twice their size because the men were overconfident. I will not make such a mistake."
"It gladdens me to hear that, ser knight," you reply warmly. "Shall we begin?"
In truth, you expected to only last a short time, maybe get a few hits in to prove you had talent but you had little expectation of lasting very long. You suspected everyone gathered thought much the same.
What happened next took everyone by surprise. Ser Mallister had lived up to his promise and attacked you without hesitation, only for you to turn aside his wooden blade. You pressed the attack quickly, using your own strength to nearly force the blade out of his hand.
The two of you clashed for several minutes. While you were never able to truly gain the upper hand save for that brief moment in the beginning, you held your own quite well. Your own blade remaining firmly in your hand, while also keeping his away from your body.
Watching the man's expression change over the fight had been interesting. From calm self-confidence to shock and anger over your early moves, gradually shifting to a look of approval.
"You fight well, Princess," Rymun remarked in between blows. "I've known boys with four namedays on you who fight with half as much skill."
"You honor me, Ser," you remark as you turn away his blade.
Fighting for any sustained length of time is hard on the body, even for someone as young as you. Eventually exhaustion got the better of you and one of Ser Rymun's blows forced the blade out of your hand.
The two of you stood there for a moment, the room filled with the sound of your labored breaths as sweat poured down your face.
"Well fought, Ser Rymun," you said as you picked up your training sword. "Victory is yours."
"My thanks, Princess," the knight replied as he dropped his own wooden blade. "But that was no victory. It's clear I am not worthy of the white cloak. It was a good fight though. You should be proud."
Though he did his best to hide it, it was clear the knight's pride was wounded. This was not the fight either of you, or anyone gathered, had expected.
By the time you recovered enough to fight Ser Criston, a small crowd of onlookers had gathered, Alicent among them. Apparently news had spread through the Red Keep that the princess had held off a seasoned knight for some time and nearly forced a draw.
"Do not go easily on me, Ser Criston," you smiled as you talked. "I will not make the same mistakes my uncle made."
"I will not underestimate you, Princess," he replied, still staring at you with that unnerving, almost blank, look in his eyes.
Ser Criston attacked you with furious energy. His attacks less the attacks of a seasoned knight and more the efforts of a half mad reaver. The crowd gasped in shock as he all but wailed on you. You held your ground, each blow hitting your blade a thundering hammer strike.
Thankfully, Criston's attacks were so full of anger and strength that they became downright sloppy, allowing you to hold your own, for a time at least. Eventually one of his blows knocked the sword out of your hand and pointed the rounded edge of his own training blade at your neck.
"Well met, Ser Criston," you said, a nervous edge creeping into your voice until he lowered the blade. It was clear he was something beyond furious at having to fight you at all and the fact you had been able to stand against him even if only for a short while had only made that fury grow deeper.
The man said nothing as he lowered his blade and stepped back, Knight-Commander Westerling staring at him in disapproval.
The charm the man had shown at the tourney was a mask it seemed. The real Ser Criston was a far more simple and uglier figure.
Finally, after taking a break, Ser Raylon Tarly stepped forward.
"My father told me he fought women numerous times while he was repelling Dornish raids," the Tarly knight explained. "He said all of them fought twice as hard as any man."
"I hope one day I will match such skill and ferocity," you replied as you readied your training sword.
To your surprise, the older man motioned for you to make the first move. You stared at him curiously for a moment then made your strike, only for him to turn your blade aside almost casually. Earning a number of gasps from the crowd.
"You're strong, quite strong," Ser Raylon praised, "but whoever trains you is much too cautious, probably scared of hurting a princess. You're not taking proper advantage of that strength."
The man's comment catches you off guard, nearly allowing him to knock the sword out of your hand right then and there. You just barely managed to hang on.
With the Mallister, there had been the ghost of a chance, and even against Cole you had been able to hold your own. Not so in this case. The older knight may have lacked Ser Criston's strength, but his skill more than made up for it. It was quite apparent you were outmatched.
Within a matter of moments your sword was on the ground.
"Well fought, Princess," he said with a bow.
"You flatter me, Ser," you reply through heavy breathes. "Knight-Commander? Please find Ser Raylon a white Cloak. I believe he's more than earned it."
At that, a broad smile appeared across the face of your new Sworn Shield.
New Relationship Gained: Ser Raylon Tarly
Relationship with Otto Hightower Degraded
Relationship with Ser Harrold Westerling Degraded
Your duel with the various kingsguard candidates sparked quite the conversation in the Red Keep, particularly as tale spread you fought a knight to what was effectively a stand still. Otto Hightower had been quite angry about it at the next small council meeting, saying you had made a mockery of the whole event and insulted Houses Mallister and Caron. However, your father had been more amused than frustrated by the whole affair, arguing that as it was your sworn shield you had the right to test them as you saw fit.
The passing of months were mostly calm save for two bits of dark news. First was news from the Stepstones. The Triarchy has stepped up its attacks in the region, particularly against ships bound for Driftmark. Apparently an admiral called 'Crabfeeder' is capturing Westerosi crews and having them impaled on the beaches and left for his namesake. While none of House Velyarion's ships had been attacked yet, Lord Corlys has made clear that if and when that happens he will expect action from the King.
The second, and more personally concerning, bit of news was your father's illness. Your father had cut himself on his throne during his argument with your uncle and the wounds had not healed since. The news was not common knowledge at all in the Red Keep, the damaged finger being hidden by gloves. You yourself only learned about it by chance. Your father and Grand Maester Mellos insist it will be fine, that experts were coming from the Citadel to take care of it. You had your doubts but you knew little about afflictions and illnesses.
You've heard whispers among the lords of a desire to see your father remarry. Even those who accept you as heir are worried. You are an only child and if something were to happen to you, Daemon would be heir again. Thankfully, no one is bold enough to bring up such suggestions to your grieving father yet.
Beyond that, not much has changed these last few months. Your uncle remains brooding on Dragonstone and the topic has all but vanished from conversation in the small council, with almost all convinced he will grow bored in time. Your father has given you frustratingly little to do as heir, mainly just still acting as his cupbearer at the Small Council.
Fourth Season, 112 AC
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.
Conversations (Pick Two)
[] Speak with Viserys
There is little more you can do to help with his grief and you have no desire to even approach the subject of him remarrying yet, but you are worried about his illness. He insists it's fine but perhaps a more in depth conversation might assure your fears.
[] Speak with Alicent
While you and Alicent haven't spoken much recently, you know there is no one else in the Red Keep who would understand the pain you are going through right now better than her. Perhaps Alicent can help you deal with the grief of losing your mother. Maybe you could even begin to repair your strained friendship.
[] Speak with Otto Hightower
The Hand of the King has little interest in speaking with you at this moment.
[] Speak with Gwayne Hightower
Alicent's brother has left King's Landing.
[] Speak with Knight Commander Harrold Westerling
Harrold has been by your side since you were a child. He has been a friend and your stalwart shield for years. He has never been supportive of your efforts to learn how to fight and even less so of your desire to become a knight. Mayhaps his thoughts have changed now that you are heir to the throne and he is the Lord Commander of the Kingsguard.
[] Speak with Ser Raylon Tarly
You know little about your new Sworn Shield and it would do well to get to know him better. The man is a proven knight and some of his remarks seemed promising. Perhaps he might be willing to do what Westerling never was and help in your training.
[] Speak with Lord Corlys Velyarion
From what little you know, it seems like the Sea Snake was one of the least supportive voices on the Small Council for your father's decision to name you heir, perhaps still bitter over his wife being overlooked by the Great Council of 101. If you could try and begin to win him over, that would go a long ways to shoring up your support on the Small Council. He may also have advice on your own aspirations for a seat on the council as well. And if there is anyone who would be willing to listen to your thoughts on the Triarchy and their actions in the Stepstones, it would be the Master of Ships.
[] Speak with Rhaenys Targaryen
The Queen who never was. Had her father outlived the old King, it is highly likely that she would be the ruling Queen by now. In many ways you have everything that has been denied to her, twice over. No doubt there is tension, perhaps you could smooth things over.
[] Speak with Lord Lyonel Strong
The Master of Laws and Lord of Harrenhal. A Stalwart voice on the council and man you know generally strives to do what is best for the Kingdom. He may be able to give you some good advice on how to earn a seat on the council, and if nothing else his support would be useful.
[] Write-in
Subject to QM approval, has to have a reasonable chance of being in King's Landing.
Actions (Pick Two)
[] Relax
A lot has happened recently. Your mother has died and you have been suddenly thrust into a position that will one day make you the most powerful person in Westeros. That's a lot for one person to handle in a short period of time. 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.
[] Study the history of the Small Council
King Jaehaerys ruled for over five decades. His Small Council, particularly during the years Septon Barth served as Hand, kept decently detailed records of its decisions and some of the activities of its members. Perhaps if you understood better how the Small Council functioned it could help you in your efforts to attain a seat one day.
[] 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.
[] Train
While training with your dragon has helped to keep up your strength, it has been some time since you had proper time in the yard, and your recent experience has shown you that while you have talent and skill for fighting, you are still a long ways from becoming a knight.
[] Train with Syrax
While you have both adjusted to Syrax's new size, more training could only help the both of you.
[] 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? And if nothing else it will be great practice if you ever need to sneak for more adventurous pursuits.
[] Try and gather info on Daemon's Activities
The Small Council seems content to just let Daemon brood for the time being, but Dragonstone is your castle, you would like to know what he's doing with it. Perhaps some of the fishermen and merchants at the docks might have a hint of what your uncle is up to.
[] Push for Action in the Stepstones
Piracy in the Stepstones might be the perfect chance for you to begin to prove yourself as a warrior. If you could just get your father to agree to send you and the other Dragon Riders against the pirates, the court would soon be filled with tales of your heroic deeds, and of the many ships you reduced to ash. But that was a very big if. Your father has little interest in the affairs of the Stepstones and would likely have even less at the idea of sending you into combat. At the very least you would need some support for the notion to be taken seriously by the Small Council.
[] Scout out Tourneys
There are few better ways to test one's skill in combat than a tourney. While you are quite aware that no tourney, however small, would allow you to openly compete, there was always the option of entering as a mystery knight. Your own grandfather was knighted after he entered a tourney as a mystery knight. While it was unlikely there would be a tourney as big as the one King's Landing had the day your mother died for quite some time, there was always some lord getting married or some heir having an important nameday. If you could find one close enough you might be able to sneak off and enter as a mystery knight. Of course, entering one and winning are two different things, and a quick defeat may hamper your efforts to become a knight.
[] Write-in
Subject to QM approval QM's Note: I will probably let voting on this one go for a few days so don't feel rushed this turn.
