the story so far

"Pick a side. There are no sidelines here."

There are tides changing in the north, in the aftermath of the Umber War there has been an uptick in smallfolk moving to the 7 under the belief that they were the ones who protected them the most. This has caused a divided between older northmen and younger. Many credit the influence of the 7 on Owen creating new roads and improving the standing of the north, others credit the Old Gods for practicing through the new King in the North, a Northman.

Those who are staunchly against Owen's changes have begun to refer to themselves as the True North , notably many of these houses left court with Brandon Karstark though any who remain wish to influence the king back to being a Northmen. It should be noted this was not the goal of Brandon Karstark and he was surprised to hear of the faction formed around his "cause".

The 8 are Northmen who have adopted the 7 alongside their Old Gods, while they know the Old Gods number higher it was agreed that 8 simplified things. These groups live closer to the lands of the Manderly's though among the smallfolk the cause grows.

Loyalist are those who are loyal to the Starks. Perhaps they are weary of change. Maybe they're having some trouble adjusting but they trust House Stark to lead them as they have since the age of Heroes.

a q u e e n ' s c h o i c e

"Once a man has seen a dragon in flight, let him stay home and tend his garden in content, someone had written once, for this wide world has no greater wonder."

-- Tyrion Lannister, A Dance with Dragons, George R. R. Martin

"The moon cracked, brother. I seen the eggs tumble and I heard them break." - Viserys Targaryen

The youngest of the Green children who still lives is Prince Viserys Targaryen, Little Viserys, survived the dance in the way of cravens and dragon pups. Hiding in the many caves and tunnels of the dragonpit, listening to the slaughter of the creatures he loved so much. The young Prince stayed in hiding, tucked away from the view and voices of those looking for his cousins and any survivors. The tamers hid the boy among themselves, keeping him there once they confirmed Jaehaerys Targaryen was alive through a network of connections of their own.

When his brother rose to the throne Viserys chose to stay in the pits. The young Prince, the dumb dragon, earned such a name when in a tourney the handsome, young, knight was knocked off his horse and his helmet was dented, from that day Viserys seemed to only know High Valyrian and was visibly distressed in the presence of his grandmother and aunt.

The news reaches the King late in the evening in the form of his brother storming into his bedchambers waking him and the Queen with small dragons in his hands on his shoulders.

"Zaldrīzoti!! Zaldrīzoti!!"

THE SEVEN WINTER FEASTS

The Seven Winter Feasts of the Riverlands, an annual Yuletide celebration inspired by Irish traditions, stands as a testament to unity and resilience in trying times, notably during winter's darkness and hardships. Hosted at Riverrun, this week-long festivity begins with smaller gatherings as travelers arrive at the castle. Inviting Houses from the Riverlands to join in this holiday at the Royal Tully Home, each night features a grand feast led by a different house, showcasing blended cultures and honoring harmony amidst adversity. These celebrations epitomize the unity of the Riverlands, where houses intertwine their unique cultures, weaving traditions into a vibrant tapestry of diversity. Amidst winter's challenges, these feasts symbolize the illumination of unity and cultural fusion. Each night's theme, from revelry rooted in Riverish traditions to reflections on maritime heritage and interfaith bridges, reflects the Houses' dedication to unity and resilience in challenging times. During times of war and winter's harshness, these feasts shine as beacons of cultural celebration and solidarity. They serve as reminders of the richness found in the Riverlands' diversity, demonstrating that unity, cultural harmony, and celebration can thrive, offering hope and warmth in the midst of winter's chill. The Houses selected to host these feasts rotate yearly, often based on their rank and contributions. This year, with the completion of The Trout’s Mouth Canal, The Seven Houses chosen hail from the main branches of The Trident, representing the diverse facets of Riverlands' culture and heritage.

hear me roar, for i have no rival -

king tyland lannister, first of his name, and queen consort katherine serrett are pleased to announce they are expecting their first child. a large mass is held in honor of the queen's pregnancy, and people from all over the realm rejoice with various celebrations and events at hearing the joyous news. markets bustle with activity as merchants and artisans prepare special wares to commemorate the royal announcement. the air is filled with music, laughter, and the sounds of merriment as the entire kingdom unites in anticipation of the new addition to the royal family.

THE NIGHT THE MOON WENT DOWN: THE END OF THE QAMAR OF THE TOR.

In the heart of Volantis, the ancient city brimming with juxtaposition and intrigue, Lord Rashid Jordayne of the Tor found himself entangled in a web of political schemes. His mission, meant to renegotiate peace and trade treaties initial set by Prince Mors of House Martell between Volantis and Dorne, had drawn the attention of shadowy figures with divergent interests to the entirety of rulers of the mighty city.

As the moon cast its silvery glow upon the sprawling city, Rashid attended a grand banquet in his honour, hosted in a lavish estate adorned with tapestries depicting the history of Volantis. He was unable to look away from the scenes depicting brutal slavery upon it; the whips, which seemed to become all too real. To many nameless slaves in the room that waited on him, their only depiction of their ancestors were the enslaved souls on the tapestries.

There was one moment in particular where a slave girl's hand shook as she offered him a drink, trembling as though she feared he would bestow something upon her.

Unbeknownst to him, whispers of dissent slithered through the halls. The night took a treacherous turn when Rashid, known for his vehement opposition to slavery and unwavering commitment to social justice, voiced his concerns about Volantis' reliance on the slave trade. His last words during the banquet had only been "We Are All Made Of The Same Clay" to bring a civil end to a no doubt tense discussion. His impassioned words resonated with some, but invoked resentment in others who thrived on the city's economic foundations. Those who believed Rashid's own opinions were a representation of Dorne's: and their involvement in the ways of Volantene governing.

Underneath the veneer of diplomacy, a clandestine plot unfolded. As Rashid retired to his quarters, he was ambushed by a group of masked assailants wielding concealed daggers. None would know the way in which he looked upon them when he turned, his intuition correct - for there came a strange, accepting sense of calm to realise one only had some moments left. "You had me wondering."

The flickering candlelight cast eerie shadows as the attackers, faces obscured by dark hoods, struck with lethal precision. A deadly silence enveloped the room as Lord Rashid Jordayne, advocate for change and a voice against the chains that bound men, succumbed to the cold steel of betrayal. His body, now a pawn in a deadly game of power, lay lifeless as the conspirators melted back into the shadows.

Only minutes later, that very same enslaved girl was the first to stumble across the corpse of the light of Dorne. Her tears came not only from a place of shock, but a place of mourning, for a man she had only known for the course of a banquet. We Are All Made Of The Same Clay. In the hours that unfolded, there was a rush by the Voltanese rulers to figure out what divergent group of extremists had done such a thing.

And a dispatch was sent to Sunspear, to inform them that the moon had gone down.

@ofsandandblood / @ariannevaith / @armaans / @baashirdayne / @dante-uller / @dastan-allyrion / @devanitoland / @lorduller / @joymanwoody / @lorczamartell / @myriamas / @opheliafowler / @dancingshores

ooc information:

myriam would have been the one written to, and it would have been her who broke the news to the council and his only living family left, his wife the princess loreza martell and a single sister, who now rules the tor.

once returned home, rashid's body is embalmed with oils to keep it's state. many swear it looks as though he is merely sleeping, and can smell perfume and musk from him. he is kept to lay in state, first in sunspear for those to pay respect to the first justiciar of dorne, and then onwards to his lands of the tor.

REAL GODS REQUIRE BLOOD

tl;dr because this is 3000+ words: Alys, in the wake of finding out her sister has been taken by the false Umber king, performs the darkest of rituals in the woods to bargain with something that lurks from before the times of Men. The price is steep, but she wants this war over before she loses another sibling. Afterwards, word of plague has come from enemy camps, just as she paid for.

trigger warnings: death/murder, drugging, witchcraft/sacrifice, blood, eldritch entity horror, body horror, mention of previous assault, probably more so just be real careful reading.

The Rescue of Manal Manderly:

Manal has been a prisoner for almost a year (10-11 months) during that time they have moved a lot in the cover of darkness from Sheepshead Hills, through the Lonely Hills, and into the thick forests of Long Lake.

The Location: The Little King Camp Important Players: The Little King, Manal Manderly, Nasir Manderly, and Jin Renshu, The Hugors, Reed and Manderly forces. Set up: While tracking the Umber forces they are met by the loyal hill tribe, they come to provide additional assistance in navigating through the thick forest.

While tracking they see one man at the lake fishing and then they see several more. As evening comes one of the Hugors, a Manderly, and of the hill tribesman.

The orange glow fires, the smell of fires, and sound of voices let them realize they could find the camp. They do not get too close.

Ren, Captain of the Hugors, and a man from the Reed forces use stealth as they sneak into the camp in the dead of night and make their way to the prison tent where they free Manal.

Manal and freed from the Little King and immediately taken by the Hugors who travel in the dark of night to return her to White Habour. Manderly men join them to offer her some security.

Manal has visibly changed and been altered by the events. She's quieter, holding herself together before people, and she rarely offered a smile. The ladies assisted in adding dark ropes of yarn to replace her loss hair and then covered her hair with a head wrap.

Nasir Manderly rides into the camp with his forces and together they destroy the camp, slaughtering the men and burning the camp to the ground.

The Little King Umber has escaped their grasps, his numbers lowering as he arrives to another camp where they present him with a possible light in the tunnel, the taken Princess Cassana Stark.

t h e k i d n a p p i n g o f t h e s t a r k p r i n c e s s; ;

beneath a sky painted with hues of lavender and gold, the journey to their next destination was fraught with an electric tension. cassana and her female archers rode with wariness, each moment heavy with the anticipation of lurking threats, their forms etched in stark relief against the dusky landscape. the women of her archery unit were privy to the ominous murmurs, the insidious rumors swirling around the fate of their leader. they were acutely aware of the perils that danced at the edges of the road, but there was no safety in war. they pressed forward, anyways.

their forces had merged with another battalion led by lord long, a commander of unassuming stature but one who had proven combat prowess. 

as they progressed, cassana's heard her name called by lord long. she guided her steed ahead, drawn to the scene where he stood, his gaze locked upon a toppled cart at the roadside. "princess, do you recognize this emblem?" his voice was taut with intrigue. "i believe it to be one of ours, yet word of a lost cart has not reached our ears."

a flicker of hesitation hung in the air, before cassana descended from her horse, drawing nearer to the cart he pointed to. 

the distant echo of an arrow piercing flesh reverberated through the stillness. whirling around, she witnessed the cruel sight of one of her comrades falling, an arrow cruelly embedded in her chest, as an onslaught of shadowy figures descended from the hills.

"ambush!" the cry surged from behind, shattering the night, arrows streaking through the air like vengeful spirits. the assailants had cunningly targeted her troops only. none of lord’s longs men seemed to even join in the fight.

 the realization struck with a bitter clarity—they had been betrayed.

in an instant, her sword was drawn, gleaming like a sliver of moonlight. it arced through the air, cleaving through the first foe who was near.  she swung her blade into the next who came at her, ready to hit another  when she felt arms grabbing onto her. she didn’t know how many, one, two three? but the sword was wretched from her hand. she fought back as hard as she could, driving her elbow into whoevers face was close by. her hand desperately reached for the dagger at her side but the hands kept pulling her back. she let out a scream as she was pulled back again and again. 

she was pushed onto her knees, but still she fought back. finally managing to get her dagger. wretching her arm free she plunged it into the chest of one of the men next to her over and over and over, swinging at whoever was next. but she was overpowered. she was pulled from the man her arms pulled behind her back and she felt the rope tying them together. “no! NO” she screamed trying to pull away, trying to stand up, trying anything. she screamed and screamed and fought. gods she would not die here without a fight. she would fight until there was nothing left within her. but the hands on her were strong, keeping her down on her knees not giving her any room to move anymore. she didn’t know when they had shoved a rag in her mouth to muffle her screams of complete rage.

finally she felt the hand of the lord long’s on her face, turning her to look at the carnage around her. “look at it.” suddenly she felt like she couldn’t move at all. her fighters, her archers lay masared all around her. some of them still fighting, but many of them had lost their battle as they were quickly outnumbered. gods she hoped most of them had managed to escape “if only they didnt follow you then maybe they would have had a chance.” she heard one of the men say. the lord kneeled down infront of her, forcing her to look in his eyes.

 “you have a very pretty price on your head, alive of course. nothing personal, your highness but i need the money. the other girls were just in the way.” he smiled. 

leaning forward she headbutted the man as hard as she could, satisfied hearing a crunch of his nose breaking. another of the men holding her cracked her across the cheek. her vision blurred. cassana glimpsed the abyss of her fate. his smile was a grotesque mask of avarice. she met his gaze with a glare that bore more steel than any sword. she could not speak, but her intent rang loud and clear. she was not going easily.

if she could speak, she would tell him he was a dead man. when the starks heard of what happened, when they found out she was taken there would be no stopping them. they had lost jon, they swore to each other they would not lose another.

 she knew his fate without ever needing to see it in a vision. he was dead from the moment he decided to betray them.

The literary works of Lord Gael Hightower, Master of the Arts

While not every piece that Lord Gael Hightower works on reaches the public, at twenty-nine years of age the Reach's Master of the Arts has put into the world pieces that are both politically and socially relevant, as well as others that are more intimate and emotional works.

Collection of sonnets: Gael began publishing his poetry in his early twenties under the pseudonym Hadrian Dunn to hide from his father, who never approved of his son's artistic inclinations. The work became beloved by nobles and the literate common folk alike, appreciative of the author's emotional vulnerability while making clever use of historical and religious symbols in the works. In the present day, as it has become well-known who the author of that poetry is, the sonnets have been compiled and bound in a tome of poetry, occasionally called The Dunn sonnets.

The Ballad of Thorns and Roses: This was the first work by Gael after being appointed Master of the Arts by King Cedric Tyrell. The Ballad is a trilogy of plays, written in exquisite verse, which chronicle relevant events of the Reach in a fictionalized manner. To some, the tragic trilogy not only represents the current zeitgeist of the Reach, but is a profound exploration of unavoidable and timeless conflicts of loyalty, justice, and revenge. Each of the three plays was first performed at The Garden Court theater in Oldtown, but the theater company has performed them in several regions within the Reach by now.

Civil war work: During the period of turmoil caused by the false king Alaric Tyrell and his wife, Sienna Merryweather, Gael wrote several poems that reflected the situation of the realm and offered solace during such a harsh period. None of the pieces were overtly political at first glance, though with deeper analysis there are clear symbols and literary devices in place to denounce Alaric and his false queen, as well as those who sided with their faction.

The Order of Sand Sages:

No one knows the exact time the Order of the Sand Sages begun, but their time seems to have begun with the very start of Dorne itself. The Order of the Sand Sages, also known as the Sandhealers, stands as a beacon of compassion and healing in the arid lands of Dorne. Rooted in ancient traditions and guided by their unwavering commitment to non-violence, they have become revered across the region for their profound belief in the healing power of peace.

Spread far and wide across Dorne, the Order's presence is felt in bustling cities and remote villages alike. They hold firm to the belief that access to healing should be a right for all, not a privilege for the few. While they serve the common folk, it's not uncommon for certain noble houses to have dedicated healers, forging a unique bond between the healers and their patrons.

The Order of the Sand Sages is one of the few groups in Westeros that accepts both men and women as healers. This equality is fundamental to their belief that healing transcends gender. The wisest and eldest healers are both men and women

Upon joining the Order, each member solemnly swears an oath of non-violence, a sacred pledge to never harm another living being. Instead, they devote their lives to the relief of suffering, offering solace and care to those in need. New members of the Order must take the "Healer's Oath," which binds them to their duty of tending to the sick and wounded. This oath is recited under the light of the desert stars amongst the other healers, symbolizing the healer's connection to the land and commitment to one another.

Their mastery of herbcraft is unparalleled, possessing a deep understanding of the desert's flora and its medicinal properties. Their remedies are renowned for their efficacy, with some even surpassing the knowledge of maesters from distant lands.

Members of the sages travel across the desert, setting up temporary camps in various locations. They offer their services to some of the most remote settlements, building trust and mutual respect with the diverse communities of Dorne.

Through a peaceful trade network, they exchange their precious medicines for essential supplies and valuable information with intrepid desert traders. Crossing paths with a Sage is considered both an honor and a good omen, while harming one is viewed as the gravest of misfortunes, often met with severe consequences.

The healers have developed a form of silent communication through hand signals and coded gestures. This allows them to work efficiently in the field without the need for verbal communication, especially in situations where noise could attract danger.

The color within the pleats of the aprons worn by the members of the Order of the Sand Sages holds special significance, reflecting their hierarchy, roles, and accomplishments within the organization. As the sages grow in their ranking, they gain more and more colors within their aprons. Here are some of color ranking of aprons for the Sand Sages:

Sandstone Beige: This is the foundational color, worn by all members upon initiation into the Order. It symbolizes purity, humility, and the beginning of their journey towards healing. Sage Green: After completing a period of rigorous training and demonstrating exceptional proficiency in herbcraft, healers are awarded a sage green apron. This color represents growth, knowledge, and the mastery of the desert's flora. Royal Blue: Those who have shown exceptional leadership, wisdom, and have made significant contributions to the Order may be granted a royal blue apron. This signifies their elevated status within the organization and their dedication to guiding their fellow healers. Goldenrod Yellow: Reserved for healers who have excelled in creating rare and potent remedies, the goldenrod yellow apron is a mark of their expertise and innovation in herbcraft. It symbolizes the radiant impact they have on the healing community. Burgundy Red: Healers who have demonstrated extraordinary acts of compassion and selflessness, going above and beyond their duties, may receive a burgundy red apron. This color embodies the deep well of empathy and care they bring to their work. Iridescent Silver: The iridescent silver apron is a rare and prestigious honor, bestowed upon healers who have made groundbreaking discoveries in medicine, surpassing even the knowledge of renowned maesters. It represents their unparalleled contributions to the field of healing. Amethyst Purple: Reserved for the eldest and wisest members of the Order, the amethyst purple apron signifies a lifetime of dedication, learning, and leadership. These individuals are the guiding pillars of the Sand Sages, embodying the essence of their beliefs. Crimson and Gold: The highest honor that can be bestowed by the Order, the crimson and gold apron is reserved for The Sunlit Sages who are the Grand Masters or Grand Mistresses, the leaders of the Sand Sages. This regal combination of colors symbolizes their wisdom, authority, and the profound impact they have on the Order and the wider community.

These aprons serve as tangible symbols of the healers' achievements and contributions, creating a visual representation of their individual journeys within the Order of the Sand Sages.

During times of conflict, the Order maintains a steadfast policy of neutrality. Trusted by all factions, they offer aid without bias or judgment, ensuring their safety even in the midst of war. This unshakable commitment to healing and peace has made the Sand Sages an enduring force for good for all.

Ophelia within the Order of the Sages

When she was a young girl one of the Sages begun to live in Skyreach as a healer to her entire family. Being the guardians and protectors of the Prince's Pass it was important that all the family stayed healthy.

One day Ophelia ended up helping the Sage when he was bandaging the wound of a soldier. Something sparked within her and even as a little girl Ophelia knew being a healer was her calling in life. Her mentor has said he had never seen someone so young have such an understanding for the skills and compassion it takes to be a Sage. Surely in her previous life Ophelia must have been one of the Sunlit Sages

Barely a teenager she took the Healer's Vows with the complete support of her family behind her, all of them proud of the young girl's commitment to helping people across Dorne. While she completed a lot of her training within Skyreach, she was allowed the ability to travel with her mentor across Dorne to get hands-on experience

On October 1st 142 AC Arlo Florent-Redwyne is born after a long labor he is a healthy baby boy and heir to the Arbor, Brightwater, and the islands.

Arlo Florent is born in Brightwater among the Festival of The Fox and/or pearl, a celebration for the first son or daughter of Brightwaters ruling lord. The announcement of a son is made and the feast of the Fox is held. During this time smallfolk provide gifts across the temples and septs.

Day 1: Games held on the large training pitch of Brightwater where locals and visitors take part in jousting and archery competitions.

Day 2: After the birth of the Fox (or pearl) the citizens then travel from sept to temple leaving many gifts for the mother, the maiden, and good fortunes for the Lord, his lady, and their family.

Day 3: The Septons come to Brightwater where they check in on the well being of the babe and mother, blessing both.

Day: A great feast is held, if the mother is able to attend she joins in on the final day of hosting where a great feast is held in honor of the Lady and the strong baby born.

King Cedric Tyrell, cousin to Lord Omer Florent, has been named as the Godfather of Arlo Florent.

Note: These traditions can last longer than 4 days, once the word goes out labor has started and so begins the set up and preparation of the Florent games. If the labor last days long then day one will last until the baby is born and if/when the baby survives the folk continue with their partying, feasting, and praying until the feast day. Alysa Corbray's feast day was, in reality, 10 days after giving birth to Omer Florent.

celebrating the marriage of lord axell royce and lady yuna upcliff

As the sun dipped below the horizon, it painted the sky in a fiery canvas of crimson, marbled with hues of gold, orange, and hints of cobalt. This celestial spectacle cast an ethereal glow upon the standing stones. The stage was set for the union of Axell Royce and Yuna Upcliff, a sacred bond that would be consecrated amidst the honored stones of Runestone. While the rugged mountains of the Vale echoed with the clamor of battle, Axell Royce and Yuna Upcliff, both figures marked by others with trepidation, otherworldlyness and notoriety, took a respite from the conflict to embark on this most auspicious journey. The entirety of the Vale's nobility, and even emissaries from realms beyond, had been invited to gather to partake in this momentous occasion. The air hung heavy with the weight of both celebration and caution, for Axell remained a target of the Mountain Clans, and he was resolute in ensuring the safety of his new bride and the sanctity of their celebration. And while one plan of attempted assassination was discovered a few days before nothing happened at the ceremony itself. Or at least none that the newlywed couple were aware of. Within the hallowed circle of standing stones, an exquisite fusion of heritage transpired. It was a dance of customs, a harmonious marriage of Runestone's storied traditions, a tribute to the legacy of House Royce, interwoven with the mysterious tapestry of practices brought forth from the Witch Isles, paying homage to the Upcliffs. The very stones that bore witness to centuries of history now stood witness to this union, a bridge between realms and legacies. As the clock struck midnight and the celebration continued on inside, the newlyweds stole away as part of an ancient tradition in Runestone's lore. It was within the protection and blessing of the standing stones that the newlyweds consummated their marriage and the start of their new life together.

THE TROUT’S MOUTH CANAL 

In the weeks following the BURNING OF THE RIVER MARKET, after The Riverlands Court depart Highgarden, THE TROUT'S MOUTH CANAL, also referred to as THE MOUTH, has been completed. The completion of The Mouth marks a historical moment for The Riverlands and Westeros — for the first time, a direct water high-way runs across the entirety of The Realm. The Trident now meets The Sunset Sea at The Blue Fork on the coast between Seagard and Wendish Town. Open-mouthed trout fountains, incredibly monstrous in size, can be found built into the stone structure. 

Already a leader in Westerosi trade, The Riverlands will see another significant increase in wealth and revenue: 

The canal allows for easier movement of heavy and bulky cargo, such as raw materials, minerals, and agricultural products, without the limitations of roadways.

Reduces shipping costs due to the cut down of travel time and distance.

Encourages increases of business and population along The Trident due to easier access to goods.

Allows easier movement for commercial trades, but also noble and common travelers alike.

Creates a third major tax and toll hub for The Trident, the others being at the Bay of Crabs near Maidenpool and The Isle of Commerce. 

Increases job availability for sailors, tradesmen, and naval forces, as well as immigration.

Significant increase in the movement of goods from The Reach and The Westerlands due to the close proximity of The Golden Isles. 

Yitish and Northern goods have begun to saturate The River Market, spreading both East and West. 

— etc. 

With the establishment of a new taxation and toll zone, immediate revenue has been directed to the rebuilding of The River Market, the fortification of ships, payment distributed to tenants and merchants who have lost stock and goods, and other pressing matters pertaining to the trade prosperity of The Riverlands. 

The River Market, though damaged, is at full functionality due to the new income. At present, NO SHIPS OWING PATRONAGE TO THE FREE CITY OF LYS ARE ALLOWED WITHIN THE WATERS OF THE TRIDENT.