0 Game of Thrones

Game of Thrones | MariMUN ‘18 | February 17, 2018

Game of Thrones DANIELLE ZHU, CASSANDRA MOSCHELLA, SERENA ASPINALL,

KAREEM HAMMAMI

Game of Thrones 0

Contents

Introduction of the Dais and Crisis Staff ................................................................................................................. 1

Danielle Zhu (Chair) ................................................................................................................................................. 1

Serena Aspinall (Vice-Chair)................................................................................................................................... 1

Kareem Hammami (Assistant Crisis Director) ................................................................................................. 1

A Letter from the Crisis Director .............................................................................................................................. 2

Welcome from the Secretary General ..................................................................................................................... 3

Introduction to the Committee................................................................................................................................. 4

Preface and Setting ................................................................................................................................................... 4

Goals and Expectations ........................................................................................................................................... 4

Robert’s Rebellion ......................................................................................................................................................... 5

History .......................................................................................................................................................................... 6

The Year of the False Spring .................................................................................................................................. 7

The Rebellion ............................................................................................................................................................. 8

The Seven Kingdoms ...................................................................................................................................................10

Religion .......................................................................................................................................................................10

The North ....................................................................................................................................................................11

The Riverlands .......................................................................................................................................................... 12

The Vale ...................................................................................................................................................................... 12

The Iron Islands ........................................................................................................................................................ 13

The Westerlands.......................................................................................................................................................14

The Reach ...................................................................................................................................................................14

The Stormlands......................................................................................................................................................... 15

Dorne ...........................................................................................................................................................................16

The Crownlands........................................................................................................................................................ 17

Concerns and Threats .................................................................................................................................................19

The Eastern Threat ..................................................................................................................................................19

The Death of Jon Arryn ..........................................................................................................................................19

Winter..........................................................................................................................................................................19

Repaying Debts ........................................................................................................................................................ 20

Character List................................................................................................................................................................. 21

Game of Thrones 1

Introduction of the Dais and Crisis Staff

DANIELLE ZHU (CHAIR)

Danielle Zhu is a second-year Honours Commerce student at the

college. She started her Model UN experience two years ago

where she attended SimONU Grasset, and has since fallen in

love with the friendly yet competitive atmosphere MUN offers.

Having recently developed a passion for public speaking, she

naturally joined the Model UN Club, the Debate Club, as well as

MYLO at Marianopolis. This will be her first time serving as a

Chair, and she is both extremely excited and thrilled to be part

of this experience. In her spare time, she enjoys taking pictures,

discovering new brunch spots, and loves to support local stores.

SERENA ASPINALL (VICE-CHAIR)

Serena is a first-year Honours Commerce student at Marianopolis.

She began her MUN career at MUNC, where she had her first

experience with a power delegate. She later went on to Harvard

MUN, because she is worldly and enjoys the finer things in life. She

likes to think that she is not your average MUN delegate; however,

according to most of her friends, she has a tendency to go overboard

and let conferences take over her life. This will be Serena’s first

experience as a Vice-Chair, and she is very excited to see what the

other side of the table feels like. When she is not too busy being a

social butterfly, you can find her at the Westmount Public Library

studying to maintain an acceptable R-score.

KAREEM HAMMAMI (ASSISTANT CRISIS DIRECTOR)

Kareem is in his final semester in Arts and Sciences at

Marianopolis. When he is not busy spreading the light of the

crusade, Kareem enjoys unnecessary research and looking up

dank memes. To keep in shape, he likes to ski and row

himself skillfully into the DMs (watch out). He started his

MUN career at JACMUN 2017, where he managed to get

invaded thrice as Czechoslovakia, and then moved on to

destroy Europe as the Pope. This will be his first time as

ACD, and he can’t wait to throw delegates into the

dragonpit.

Game of Thrones 2

Welcome from the Crisis Director

Lords and Ladies of Westeros,

Welcome to MariMUN 2018. My name is Cassandra Moschella, and it is my privilege to be serving as your Crisis Director for the Game of Thrones Committee. Having recently graduated from Marianopolis myself, it is an honour to come back to this conference that served as my second home for the duration of my CEGEP career. My staffers are not only great delegates and wonderful workers, but they are good friends of mine. We have been working tirelessly to give you a weekend and an experience that you will not soon forget. As a certified old lady, this is my fourth year in the Model UN community. My first experience as a dais member was at this very conference, in 2016, where I was a Vice-Chair for ICAO. From there, I went on to become Director of Communications on MariMUN’s Executive Team, where I was also the Undersecretary-General of External Affairs on last year’s secretariat. I recently completed my mandate as Page Coordinator for SSUNS 2017. With around twenty conferences under my belt, it is safe to say that I am perhaps too dedicated to MUN. Apart from Model UN, my interests include creative writing, sociological studies, finance and economics, and Broadway musicals. When I’m not at school, you can find me working at the movie theatre, or catching up on my Netflix queue on the couch at home. Some fun facts about me: I am constantly suffering at a temperature below freezing; I love semicolons; my secret dream is to be a stand-up comedian; and, if I could only eat breakfast foods for the rest of my life, I would. Game of Thrones is both my favourite television show and my favourite book series, and so it is a privilege to serve as your Crisis Director. I cannot wait to see the kind of scheming that you, the delegates, come up with all weekend. I am looking forward to seeing the diplomacy and negotiations between delegates, which is what I love and appreciate most about Model UN. Of course, I do expect some snakery. A word of advice for this weekend: be as creative as possible. We want to see any and all outlandish, intelligent, and perhaps downright evil plans, things that have not even crossed the mind of George R. R. Martin. And keep in mind, that winter is coming.

Warm regards,

Cassandra Moschella

Crisis Director

Game of Thrones 3

Welcome from the Secretary General

Dear delegates, faculty advisors and MUN enthusiasts,

My name is Ramiz A. Razzak and I am excited beyond

words to serve as Secretary General for the 2018 edition

of the Marianopolis Model United Nations Conference!

Since its inception as a conference over a decade ago,

MariMUN has strived to provide new and experienced

delegates alike with a fresh take on the Model United

Nations experience. We have achieved this primarily

through our unwavering commitment to the delegate

experience and our willingness to explore new and

exciting committee ideas, a tradition which has been

passed on through countless MariMUN Secretariat

teams.

As such, this year, we will be offering our largest

selection of committees to date, from our timeless WHO

and SPECPOL General Assemblies to thrilling Crises committees on topics ranging from

Game of Thrones to the American Civil War. What’s more, to cater to new delegates and

initiate them to the workings of Model United Nations, we are continuing our widely

successful Beginner General Assembly initiative while also adding a Beginner Crisis to our

mix of committees. This is but one way in which MariMUN seeks to instill a passion for

Model UN in our delegates all the while providing them with an educational experience.

However, all of this is only possible because of our amazing staff and my wonderful

Secretariat team, both of which have been working tirelessly to create a conference that will

foster critical thinking, diplomatic finesse, logical debating and astute problem solving, all

of which are fundamental skills for any global citizen.

We have something for everyone at MariMUN, because our goal is to make sure that you

have a truly memorable weekend. That is why I hope to see you there!

Sincerely,

Ramiz A. Razzak

Secretary General, MariMUN 18’

Game of Thrones 4

Introduction to the Committee

“Chaos isn’t a pit. Chaos is a ladder.”

PREFACE AND SETTING

In the year 281 AC,1 Robert’s Rebellion overthrew the Targaryen reign. Robert Baratheon

succeeded as the new king of the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros, next to his queen, Cersei

Lannister. Years later, the Hand of the King, Lord Jon Arryn, was poisoned, and Robert

decided to appoint his lifelong friend, Eddard Stark, Lord of Winterfell, as his

replacement. As Hand of the King, Lord Ned Stark earned his seat on Robert’s small

council.

This council is typically composed of seven members; its aim is to advise the king, and

institute policy, if need be. The main actors include the Hand of the King, whose role is to

moderate the small council, and assume the king’s responsibilities in his absence. The

Master of Coin serves as the head of the treasury.2 Due to his vast amount of knowledge,

the Grand Master generally advises the king on matters of morality and wisdom.3 The

Master of Laws, also known as the justiciar, administrates justice by supervising law

enforcement and the Red Keep’s dungeons. The Master of Ships acts as the chief of the

naval fleet and is responsible for its activities. The Lord Commander of the Kingsguard is

the realm’s chief military advisor, and accordingly coordinates all land-based military

activities. Finally, the Master of Whisperers is the realm’s spymaster, and is tasked with

collecting information.4

New threats are on the horizon, with doubt and enemies rising quicker than ever. The

small council and its advisors must strike a balance between self-interest and the good of

the realm.

GOALS AND EXPECTATIONS

Delegates are expected to familiarize themselves with their character assignment and the

resources available to them. When asked to accomplish tasks throughout the conference,

the process will be smoother if delegates arrive prepared and informed. Additionally, it is

encouraged that delegates research the capacities of other characters in the room. In

doing so, delegates stand a better chance at capitalizing on all available resources in times

of crises. Delegates are expected to stay true to their character. Moreover, it is strongly

encouraged to familiarize oneself with the house and family of their character.

It should be noted that crises committees move at a fast pace. It is therefore suggested

that delegates remain attune to all of the events unfolding around them. Delegates will be

1 Robert’s Rebellion, Game of Thrones Wiki, 2017. 2 Small Council, Game of Thrones Wiki, 2017. 3 Small Council, A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017. 4 Ibid.

Game of Thrones 5

expected to handle various challenges, and must be quick on their feet in order to ensure a

lively atmosphere. It should also be noted that delegates can be assigned personal crises to

be solved by themselves or with the help of others.

Although it is encouraged that delegates read or watch Game of Thrones, the chair looks

very favourably upon delegates who propose unique solutions.

REFERENCES

1. “Robert’s Rebellion.” Game of Thrones Wiki. Accessed January 10, 2018.

http://gameofthrones.wikia.com/wiki/Robert%27s_Rebellion.

2. “Small Council.” Game of Thrones Wiki. Accessed January 10, 2018.

http://gameofthrones.wikia.com/wiki/Small_Council.

3. “Small Council.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. Accessed January 10, 2018.

http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Small_council.

Game of Thrones 6

Robert’s Rebellion

“And so ended both the reign of House Targaryen and Robert’s Rebellion—the war that put

an end to nearly three hundred years of Targaryen rule and ushered in a new golden era

under the auspices of House Baratheon.”

Seventeen years before the events of the main series, a great war, known as the War of the

Usurper, took place.5 It is also more commonly known as Robert’s Rebellion.6 This great

civil war happened among the Great Houses of Westeros, where the rebels wished to

overthrow the king, Aerys II Targaryen; it lasted approximately one year.7 Robert’s

Rebellion created a new era, where the House Targaryen no longer ruled the Seven

Kingdoms, for the first time in centuries.8 Instead, Robert Baratheon claimed the Iron

Throne, and became the King of the Andals, the Rhoynar, and the First Men, making him

the ruler of all Seven Kingdoms.9

However, after Robert’s victory, many questions arose. Why did Robert lead the

Rebellion? What sparked the Rebellion? Was the Targaryen King truly mad? In the next

section, a historical context will be given in order to explain why this rebellion occurred.

HISTORY

Before the Rebellion, for three centuries, House Targaryen had been the ruling royal house

of the Seven Kingdoms, since Aegon the Conqueror unified the realm. 10

For generations, the Targaryens have kept their bloodline pure by inbreeding, causing

them to maintain their “Valyrian features”, which consists of having very fair skin, silver-

white hair, and purple eyes of different shades.11 By maintaining a pure bloodline, this has

given House Targaryen the ability to successfully share a bond with dragons, and some are

even tolerant to extreme heat.12 However, because of the inbreeding, this has also caused

many genetic malfunctions, such as the “trait of insanity.” Not every Targaryen was

affected by this trait: some were normal, psychologically-speaking, while others have

shown rather odd, violent, and unstable behaviour, which was later called the “Targaryen

madness.”13

Prior to Robert’s Rebellion, the King of the Andals and the First Men was Aerys II

Targaryen, the last Targaryen to ever sit on the Iron Throne.14 During his reign, he was

5 Robert’s Rebellion, Game of Thrones Wiki, 2017. 6 Ibid. 7 Ibid. 8 Ibid. 9 King of the Andals and the First Men, Game of Thrones Wiki, 2017. 10 House Targaryen, Game of Thrones Wiki, 2017. 11 Ibid. 12 Ibid. 13 Ibid. 14 Robert’s Rebellion, Game of Thrones Wiki, 2017.

Game of Thrones 7

nicknamed “the Mad King” due to his murderous tendencies and unstable regime.15

Therefore, conflict and tensions began to rise between House Targaryen, and multiple

other Great Houses.16

Notably, the tension between House Lannister and House Targaryen ran high. Before the

king ascended into madness, he appointed Tywin Lannister as the Hand of the King; Lord

Tywin Lannister perfectly complimented the King’s shortcomings, who desired to be the

greatest ruler the Seven Kingdoms had ever seen.17 While Aerys boasted about his sweet

ambitions for the realm, it was Tywin Lannister that worked behind the scenes to make

sure that Westeros would thrive.18 It was becoming obvious that the realm’s prosperity was

solely due to Tywin’s merit. King Aerys quickly grew jealous of his Hand, and the

relationship between them turned sour.

An event known as the “Defiance of Duskendale” took place, where rebels captured and

imprisoned King Aerys for over half a year.19 Although Lord Tywin and Ser Barristan

managed to free the king, his mental health degenerated, and he was never the same.

Aerys began to fear for his life, and he did leave King’s Landing. His suspicious nature

gradually became paranoia, and he slowly descended into madness. Furthermore, the king

started to belittle Tywin’s achievements out of fear.20 Aerys thought that Lord Tywin

Lannister was out to get him and take his place, which is why the king’s next decision will

change the tide for what is to come. King Aerys II Targaryen appointed Jaime Lannister,

the fifteen-year-old son of Tywin, as the youngest member of the Kingsguard.21 Aerys did

not do this out of honour; instead, he stripped his Hand, Lord Tywin, of his sole heir.

Tywin, who was working to restore the might of House Lannister through his children,

was enraged by Aerys’ decision, and moved back to his home, giving up his role as the

King’s Hand.22

THE YEAR OF THE FALSE SPRING

The Targaryen King was clearly no longer sane. Even his own son and heir, Prince

Rhaegar, became wary of his father. Rhaegar, a famed jouster, competed in the Tourney at

Harrenhal, and was crowned the champion. As the winner of the tourney, Rhaegar was

allowed to choose the new Queen of Love and Beauty, and to everyone’s shock, he

crowned Lyanna Stark as the Queen of Love and Beauty, rather than his own wife,

Princess Elia Martell.23 This was shocking news for everyone: not only was Rhaegar

15 Ibid. 16 Ibid. 17 Tywin Lannister, Game of Thrones Wiki, 2017. 18 Ibid. 19 Defiance of Duskendale, Game of Thrones Wiki, 2017. 20 Aerys II Targaryen, A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017. 21 Ibid. 22 Ibid. 23 Ibid.

Game of Thrones 8

married and had children of his own, but Lyanna Stark was betrothed to Robert

Baratheon.24

THE REBELLION

The following year, Lyanna Stark disappeared along with Prince Rhaegar.25 Rumours

began to spread, saying that the Targaryen had kidnapped Lyanna.26 Brandon, her eldest

brother and closest friend, rode to King’s Landing after hearing of Lyanna’s

disappearance.27 When they arrived, Brandon shouted for Rhaegar, telling him to “come

out and die.”28 However, instead of the presence of Prince Rhaegar, Brandon and his

companions were greeted by King Aerys.29 The Targaryen King had them arrested for

conspiracy, and for threatening the life of the crown prince.30 The king also demanded the

presence of their fathers at court to answer for the crimes of their sons.31 When they

arrived, the king did not hold a fair trial: instead, he executed them all. Even when Lord

Rickard Stark, father of Lyanna and Brandon, demanded a trial by combat, Aerys chose

fire as his weapon, and burned Lord Rickard alive. His son, Brandon, held in a torture

device, was forced to watch with a sword lying a few feet away, causing him to strangle

himself to death in an attempt to save his father.32 The Mad King’s paranoia escalated, and

demanded Lord Jon Arryn to give him the heads of Eddard Stark, Brandon’s younger

brother, and Lyanna’s fiancé, Lord Robert Baratheon.33 However, Arryn refused the king’s

order, and raised his banners as an act of rebellion. Later, House Stark and House

Baratheon joined him to overthrow the Targaryen dynasty.

King Aerys’ brutal decisions and actions triggered Robert’s Rebellion in this quest to

overthrow the Targaryens.34 The houses in the Seven Kingdoms were split apart, with

some showing loyalty to the king, while others supported the rebels.35 House Lannister

remained neutral for the most part of the war.36 However, when Prince Rhaegar was killed

by Robert at the Battle of the Trident, it was clear to the Lannisters that House Targaryen

could no longer win this war.37 Lannister forces, supposedly deciding to support Aerys,

arrived at King’s Landing to help defend the capital, after their major defeat at the Battle

of the Trident. The Lannister forces entered the city, and were welcomed with open arms

24 Robert’s Rebellion, Game of Thrones Wiki, 2017. 25 Ibid. 26 Ibid. 27 Ibid. 28 Ibid. 29 Ibid. 30 Ibid. 31 Ibid. 32 Ibid. 33 Ibid. 34 Ibid. 35 Ibid. 36 Ibid. 37 Ibid.

Game of Thrones 9

by the king, despite the opposition of the small council. To his surprise, House Lannister

betrayed the Targaryens, and brutally sacked the city and the Red Keep. During the

Sacking of King’s Landing, Aerys remained in the Red Keep for hours, frantically repeating

the order “burn them all.”38 It was then that Jaime Lannister broke the holiest oath of

protecting the king, as a member of the Kingsguard, by killing King Aerys himself, earning

him the nickname of “the Kingslayer.”39

Now, with House Targaryen destroyed and overthrown, it was the leader of the Rebellion,

Robert I Baratheon, who took the Iron Throne, and became the ruler of the Seven

Kingdoms, more formally known as “Robert of the House Baratheon, the First of His

Name, King of the Andals and the First Men, Lord of the Seven Kingdoms and Protector of

the Realm.”40

REFERENCES

1. “Aerys II Targaryen.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. December 24, 2017. Accessed January

5, 2018. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Aerys_II_Targaryen

2. “Defiance of Duskendale.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. November 20, 2017. Accessed

January 5, 2018. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Defiance_of_Duskendale

3. “House Targaryen.” Game of Thrones Wiki. 2017. Accessed January 5, 2018.

http://gameofthrones.wikia.com/wiki/House_Targaryen

4. “Jaime Lannister.” Game of Thrones Wiki. 2017. Accessed January 7, 2018.

http://gameofthrones.wikia.com/wiki/Jaime_Lannister

5. “King of the Andals and the First Men.” Game of Thrones Wiki. 2017. Accessed

January 5, 2018.

http://gameofthrones.wikia.com/wiki/King_of_the_Andals_and_the_First_Men

6. “Robert Baratheon.” Game of Thrones Wiki. 2017. Accessed January 7, 2018.

http://gameofthrones.wikia.com/wiki/Robert_Baratheon

7. “Robert’s Rebellion.” Game of Thrones Wiki. 2017. Accessed January 5, 2018.

http://gameofthrones.wikia.com/wiki/Robert%27s_Rebellion

8. “Tywin Lannister.” Game of Thrones Wiki. 2017. Accessed January 5, 2018.

http://gameofthrones.wikia.com/wiki/Tywin_Lannister

38 Jaime Lannister, Game of Thrones Wiki, 2017. 39 Ibid. 40 Robert Baratheon, Game of Thrones Wiki, 2017.

Game of Thrones 10

The Seven Kingdoms

“This talk of Seven Kingdoms is a folly. Aegon saw that three hundred years ago when he stood where we are standing. They painted this table at his command. Rivers and bays they painted, hills and mountains, castles and cities and market towns, lakes and swamps and forests ... but no borders. It is all one. One realm, for one king to rule alone.”

The vast continent of Westeros, now home to the Andals, the Rhoynar and the First Men, was given its name from the seven realms that had dominion over the land before Aegon’s Conquest.41 The kingdoms belong, de jure, to the king that sits on the Iron Throne. However, due to the great size of Aegon’s newly conquered kingdom, he raised Great Houses as wardens to govern all but one of the regions. In return for their loyalty, they are granted a degree of autonomy and authority over their lands, their people, and lords loyal to them, known as bannermen.42 The nine administrative regions are known as: The North; The Riverlands; The Vale; The Iron Islands; The Westerlands; The Reach; The Stormlands; Dorne; and the Crownlands.

Each realm in the Seven Kingdoms is unique in its own way, both in its people and its terrain. Delegates should keep terrain in mind during the committee, as the type of land one has plays a strong role in the outcome. Added to that, some are better adapted for different regions than others, and some kingdoms are equipped with different resources and wealth. Trade and cooperation between realms can lead to great prosperity and development in peace and war.

RELIGION

Although the Iron Throne and religion remain separate, each region’s people remain strongly influenced by the various faiths of the land.43

The dominant religion in Westeros is the Faith of the Seven, widely followed in all realms except the North and the Iron Islands. It believes in the worship of seven deities: the Father; the Mother; the Warrior; the Smith; the Maid; the Crone; and the Stranger. The worship of these deities takes place in septs, the largest of which is the Great Sept of Baelor in King’s Landing, home of the High Septon. The High Septon is the leader of the Faith, holding significant spiritual, monetary, and once military influence in the realm. The Faith promotes chivalry and follows strict laws; it preaches against prostitution, gambling, bastardy, and polygamous marriages. It also views prostitution, incest, and kinslaying as vile sins.44

North of the Neck, the old gods are the prominent religion. Nameless deities of stream, forest, and stone, the old gods watch the realms of men through the trees, viewing the weirwood tree as the most sacred.45 It is said that the Children of the Forest carved faces on the trees, revealing the red, sappy interior. The old gods have power wherever these eyes can see; however, since the arrival of the Andals and the subsequent deforestation in

41 Seven Kingdoms, A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017. 42 Ibid. 43 Faith of the Seven, A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017. 44 Ibid. 45 Old gods, A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017.

Game of Thrones 11

the all regions, the old gods have lost all sway with the other kingdoms. Various values of the old faith include laws of hospitality, the violations of which will never be forgotten by northerners. Other actions such as incest, slavery, and kinslaying (the severity of which depend on the degree of kin) are considered offensive to the old gods.46

In the Iron Islands, the Drowned God rules the seas and islands. The Drowned God has no temples, holy books, or idols. Instead, His worship takes place wherever the smell of salt water is strong in the air. The power of the Drowned God diminishes further inland. He created the Ironborn to his likeness, as reavers and rapers, with an affinity for the sea.47

R’hllor, also known as the Lord of Light, or the Red God, is a god widely worshipped in Essos, but holds little influence in the Seven Kingdoms, seen by most as witchcraft. A faith of sacrifice and rituals, many red priests and priestesses are rumoured to be able to see the future in fires, and summon shadows to their service.48

THE NORTH

The oldest, largest, and coldest kingdom in the realm, the North and its people are set apart from their neighbors to the south, due to their history and geography.49 The vast lands of the North are made up of thick forests, vast plains, hills, mountains and valleys, which combine with its everlasting cold, to produce a rather infertile realm.50 The North is known for its summer snows, and deadly winters, forcing many northern lords to cultivate some of their produce in glass houses within their holdings.51 Its main exports are wool, hides, and timber, as well as silver from the silversmiths of White Harbor.52

The climate and geography of this land play a strong role in northern culture, and its preservation from through many invasions. Most Northmen are descended from the First Men, and claim to have that blood strong in their veins, despite centuries of intermarriage with the Andals from the South.53 These people stick to the old ways, following the old gods, and they are very traditional. Their rough lives are reflected on their character, being hardened by nature. They view the southern chivalric way of life as childish, and favour hunting and brawling over courteous jousts and tourneys.54 They claim that one northerner can take ten southerners in battle.

The North is ruled by the Starks of Winterfell, descendants of the legendary Brandon the Builder, who built the Wall, Winterfell, and a great number of other projects. Their double-walled fortress built upon hot springs is what allowed Winterfell to flourish and survive winters and sieges. Their sigil is a grey direwolf racing across a field of white, and their words are “Winter is Coming.”55 The nobles in the North are extremely loyal;

46 Ibid. 47 Drowned God, A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017. 48 R’hllor, A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017. 49 George R. R. Martin, The World of Ice and Fire (New York: Bantam Books, 2014), 135. 50 Ibid. 51 North, A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017. 52 Ibid. 53 Ibid. 54 George R. R. Martin, The World of Ice and Fire (New York: Bantam Books, 2014), 136. 55 House Stark , A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017.

Game of Thrones 12

however, the vastness of the North make the nobles rather autonomous, and their armies difficult to gather.

THE RIVERLANDS

No other realm in the Seven Kingdoms has seen as much bloodshed as the Riverlands. A land of vast plains, hills, and endless rivers,56 the Riverlands border all realms, except for Dorne and the Stormlands, with no geographic barriers against any of them. This realm centers around the Trident River, named so for its three vassal rivers: the Green Fork, the Blue Fork, and the Red Fork. During times of peace, this river facilitates trade and maintains the fertility of the land; in war, the river acts as a road and barrier for armies.57

The Riverlands are rich, fertile, and populous; however, it lacks a decent supply of raw materials. It depends largely on trade, and trade depends on peace and on the river. Its main produce is grain and other agricultural goods, as well as a small amount of wine. The people are known to use skiffs and barges to move their produce around rapidly, with many going downstream to sell their goods elsewhere.

The Riverlands are ruled from Riverrun, a small yet impregnable castle, surrounded on two sides by rivers, and on the third side by a moat, turning it into an island.58 The current lords of Riverrun are House Tully. Their sigil is a silver trout leaping on a striped field of blue and mud red, and their words are “Family, Duty, Honour.”59 The lords of the Riverlands are quarrelsome, making them difficult to subdue.

THE VALE

Of fertile valleys and impenetrable mountains, the Vale stands as one of the more isolated domains, both politically and geographically.60 Home of the first Andal settlement, the Vale proved a suitable base to grow, under the protection of the mountains of the moon.61 These mountains divide the realm into multiple smaller areas: the Vale of Arryn, the agricultural heartland; the Snakewood; the Fingers; and multiple islands off its northern shores.62

The men of the Vale are strong, reliable warriors that believe in honour, chivalry, and the Faith with zeal. Their knights are revered throughout the Seven Kingdoms,63 oftentimes turning the tide of battle. These knights are contrasted with the mountain clans of the

56 Riverlands, A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017. 57 George R. R. Martin, The World of Ice and Fire (New York: Bantam Books, 2014), 151. 58 Ibid, 160. 59 House Tully, A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017. 60 Vale of Arryn, A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017. 61 George R. R. Martin, The World of Ice and Fire (New York: Bantam Books, 2014), 163. 62 Vale of Arryn, A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017. 63 Ibid.

Game of Thrones 13

Vale, whom are the last remnants of the First Men. The clansmen live by their own laws, raiding travelers and posing a strong nuisance to the nobles of the Vale.64

The fertile valleys produce wheat, corn and barley; its mountains hold deposits of marble and iron; and its rivers carry fish and trade.65 With this in mind, the Vale may be no different in times of war or peace, and might well survive entirely on its own. This, combined with its impenetrable mountains, explains its isolationist attitude.

The Vale is ruled from the Eyrie, the most magnificent castles in the Seven Kingdoms; it is also the deadliest. It is a massive marble fortress at the top of a 600 foot cliff, with the only access being a winch elevator or a ladder. One thinks this may be enough, but the path towards the base of the Eyrie is dotted with its own castles. Never before has the Vale been conquered by outside forces.

House Arryn rules as Lords of the Eyrie, Defender of the Vale and Warden of the East. Their words are “As High as Honor,” and their sigil is a falcon soaring against a white moon on a sky blue field.66 The Lords of the Vale were strongly loyal to Jon Arryn; however, they are unconfident in the young Lord Robert’s abilities.

THE IRON ISLANDS

According to the Drowned God, the Ironborn are a different race than the rest of the Westerosi.67 Raised from the salt waters of Ironman’s Bay, the men and women of the Iron Islands base their lives on the sea. An archipelago of thirty-one rocky, barely fertile islands, with no safe harbours, is surrounded by stormy seas; these islands were all but meant to be uninhabited.68 However, the Ironmen carved a kingdom for themselves on the stony shores, and once grew to dominate wherever the salt could be smelt in the air.69 In the Iron Islands, every man is a king aboard his ship, making the islands “the Land of Ten Thousand Kings.”70

The people of the Iron Islands grew on very little. Their soil is barely suitable for farming, and their mines did not produce the precious metals that were found on the continent of Westeros. Their people broke backs mining lead, tin, and, most importantly, iron.71 Unfortunately, this industry could produce nothing more than weapons and rams for their ships. It is no wonder then that such an impoverished people, well-versed in the knowledge of the sea, turned to reaving and raiding along the western shores of Westeros.72 They stole food, treasure, and people, to use as slaves in their mines, their courts, and their beds.73 Reaving became ingrained into their culture, until Lord Quellon

64 Ibid 65 Ibid. 66 House Arryn, A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017. 67 George R. R. Martin, The World of Ice and Fire (New York: Bantam Books, 2014), 175. 68 Iron Islands, A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017. 69 Ibid. 70 Ibid. 71 Ibid. 72 Ibid. 73 George R. R. Martin, The World of Ice and Fire (New York: Bantam Books, 2014), 176-177.

Game of Thrones 14

Greyjoy banned it; he freed the thralls, and outlawed thralldom on the Iron Islands. Since then, the old ways have been set aside on the Iron Islands,74 but they have not been forgotten; the driftwood crown remains a strong image in the memories of the Ironborn.

The Islands are ruled by House Greyjoy of Pyke, since their appointment by the last Kingsmoot after Aegon’s Conquest. Their sigil is a golden kraken on a black field, and their words are “We Do Not Sow.” They rule from their ancient castle of Pyke, named after the island it sits on.75 The castle was once a single formidable fortress built upon a cliffside; time and the relentless waves of the sea have eroded these cliffs, creating three smaller islands that hold three keeps, each connected by rope bridges.76

THE WESTERLANDS

Made up of golden fields and golden mines, the Westerlands are the wealthiest realm in the Seven Kingdoms. Its many valleys are shielded by rolling hills and mountains that guard their people from armies, as well as from bankruptcy, as underneath these land barriers lie endless reserves of gold and silver.77

The Westerlands bases its economy mostly on its mineral resources, producing gold and silver in astonishing quantities, mostly in deposits north of the Gold Road. These deposits are found in Casterly Rock, the Golden Tooth, Castamere, Nunn’s Deep and the Pendrick Hills.78 The Westerlands are also relatively fertile. These lands produce decent quantities of agricultural goods and lumber. The main city of Lannisport is also a hub for trade, and is a base for fishing in the Sunset Sea.79

The Westerlands are ruled by House Lannister of Casterly Rock, descendants of Lann the Clever, who tricked the original inhabitants of Casterly Rock and took it for his own. Their sigil is a golden lion on a field of crimson, and their words are “Hear Me Roar.” What started as a wall guarding the entrance to a gold mine became a series of intertwined cave networks, culminating in a massive fortress built upon and within a rock thrice the height of the wall, a fortress that frightened even Targaryens; no castle is larger, richer, or better defended.8081 Their lords are relatively loyal, although wealth has made them greedy and ambitious, often staying in line out of sheer fear of the even wealthier Lannisters.

THE REACH

The Reach is blessed with its endless fields of corn, grain, and vines; it is a seat of learning, music, culture, arts, and a nexus of trade. Its wealth is surpassed only by the

74 Ibid, 190-191. 75 Ibid, 193. 76 Ibid. 77 Westerlands, A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017. 78 Ibid. 79 Ibid. 80 George R. R. Martin, The World of Ice and Fire (New York: Bantam Books, 2014), 195. 81 Ibid, 204-205.

Game of Thrones 15

Westerlands.82 Founded by Garth Greenhand, the legendary ancestor of all the nobles of the Reach, great fertility was brought to this realm.83 The reach is the birthplace of chivalry, where knighthood is most respected. It is where east and west, old knowledge and the new, all gather around the Mander, the Hightower and the Citadel.84

The Reach bases most of its economy off of agriculture, with its fertile lands and the great Mander River. It is the breadbasket of all of Westeros, growing grain, melons, fireplums, and, most importantly, grapes, to satisfy the Westerosi appetite for wine.85 The Arbor is said to produce the finest of wines, that travel up and down the continent’s roads, and across the Narrow Sea.86

The Reach is ruled by House Tyrell of Highgarden. Their sigil is a golden rose on a green field, and their words are “Growing Strong.” Highgarden is often said to have grown from the hill rather than built, and its flowers and gardens make it the most beautiful in the realm.87 Their lords are indifferent to the Tyrells, but they would likely choose honour and chivalry over their lieges if need be. Their rivalries with the Stormlands and with Dorne are deeply ingrained in their past and their present. Combined, the lords can summon the largest army of the Seven Kingdoms, and a fleet to match even that of the Crown.

THE STORMLANDS

The greatest storms of the Narrow Sea start below the Stepstones, and sweep north across those desolate islands. More than half of these storms die out at Storm’s End, giving that citadel its name.88 Its lands are covered in mountains and forests that once sheltered the Children of the Forest from the great storms, and its coasts are covered with cliffs and shipwrecks.89

The people and lords of the Stormlands live a martial culture, explaining its preference to castles and forts instead of great cities. Their men fight fiercely and constantly, and their rivalries with the Reach and Dorne provide many opportunities to do so.90 Its main produce includes lumber and amber, and while the torrential rains of the storms make agriculture difficult, it is possible.91

The Stormlands are ruled by House Baratheon, descendants of Orys Baratheon, who gained favour with Aegon the Conqueror during the conquests. Most believe that he was appointed warden due to being Aegon’s bastard half-brother, giving support to their claim as kings of Westeros; however, his great prowess against the old king of the Stormlands

82 Ibid, 207. 83 Ibid, 209. 84 Ibid, 213-216. 85 Reach, A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017. 86 Ibid. 87 George R. R. Martin, The World of Ice and Fire (New York: Bantam Books, 2014), 218. 88 Ibid, 221. 89 Stormlands, A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017. 90 Ibid. 91 Ibid.

Game of Thrones 16

proves to be more solid of a claim.92 Their sigil is a black crowned stag on a gold field, and their words are “Ours is the Fury.”93 They rule from Storm’s End, a storm battered fortress rumoured to have also been designed by Brandon the Builder. It can withstand relentless battering from storms and armies alike. The Stormlords view their liege with admiration and respect, due to their recent success in Robert’s Rebellion.

DORNE

With scorching heat, treacherous mountains, never-ending deserts, and vast drylands, Dorne may as well be its own continent. The lands are as strange as its people, whom are descendants of the Rhoynar, the last to migrate into this vast continent. In fact, the principality has more in common with the North than the lands in between them; as Archmaester Brude once said: “Both are thinly peopled, compared to the lands betwixt. Both cling stubbornly to their own laws and their own traditions. Neither was ever truly conquered by the dragons.”94

The least populous of the main Seven Kingdoms, the people of this land can be divided into three distinct types. The Rocky Dornishmen, the most similar to the Andals and the First Men, with their fair hair and skin, live in the high mountains and their valleys in the north. The Sandy Dornishmen live in the deserts and river valleys of the south and east respectively, with their skin burned brown from the scorching sun. Finally, the olive-skinned Salty Dornishmen cling to the coasts, their strong Rhoynar blood preferring the seas that carried them so long ago with the arrival of Queen Nymeria.95 Archmaester Brude further says that “Dornishmen and Northmen alike are derided as savages by the ignorant of the five ‘civilized’ kingdoms, and celebrated for their valour by those who have crossed swords with them.”96

With the ingenious canals along the Greenblood River, the Dornish have managed to maintain a steady supply of their strange food. Sour fruits and wines are their staple, but they are also infamously known for their spices, making their food almost impossible to consume by the common Westerosi.97 Their economy is fueled by trade with the Free Cities, their closest cultural kin, as the rest of Westeros do not view their produce with much value, nor are they willing to cross the great deserts and mountains to deliver them. Dornish horses are known for their beauty and their stamina, although not suited for war. Nevertheless, the Dornish can field a sizeable force, and they defend their lands with zeal.

Done is ruled by House Nymeros Martell of Sunspear. Their sigil is a gold spear piercing a red sun on an orange field, and their words are “Unbowed, Unbent, Unbroken.”98 The Martells ruled at Sunspear long before the arrival of the Rhoynar. However, when Queen Nymeria brought her people on her ten thousand ships to the coasts of Dorne, Lord Mors

92 George R. R. Martin, The World of Ice and Fire (New York: Bantam Books, 2014), 227. 93 House Baratheon, A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017. 94 George R. R. Martin, The World of Ice and Fire (New York: Bantam Books, 2014), 235. 95 Ibid, 236. 96 Ibid, 235. 97 Dorne, A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017. 98 House Martell, A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017.

Game of Thrones 17

Martell saw an opportunity. He married himself to the warrior princess, and his many lords followed suit, marrying Rhoynar women themselves. The Dornish and the Rhoynar became one, and Mors Martell went on to unite the rest of Dorne under a principality, fashioned after the ancient principalities that Nymeria came from.99 The lords, like their people, are known for having minds of their own, yet they are forever loyal to their culture and their prince.

THE CROWNLANDS

These lands once belonged to the Kings of the Rivers and the Isles, but now they are directly administered by the Crown. Built around the metropolis of King’s Landing and the Blackwater, its economy revolves around trade and artisan work, with every craft and trade being practiced at the great capital. Also present is a small farming and fishing industry.100

REFERENCES

1. "Crownlands." A Wiki of Ice and Fire. October 25, 2016. Accessed January 14,

2018. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Crownlands.

2. "Dorne." A Wiki of Ice and Fire. November 21, 2017. Accessed January 14, 2018.

http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Dorne.

3. "Drowned God." A Wiki of Ice and Fire. December 31, 2017. Accessed January

14, 2018. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Drowned_God.

4. "Faith of the Seven." A Wiki of Ice and Fire. December 4, 2017. Accessed

January 14, 2018. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Faith_of_the_Seven.

5. "House Arryn." A Wiki of Ice and Fire. November 21, 2017. Accessed January 14,

2018. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/House_Arryn.

6. "House Baratheon." A Wiki of Ice and Fire. September 14, 2017. Accessed

January 14, 2018. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/House_Baratheon.

7. "House Martell." A Wiki of Ice and Fire. January 1, 2017. Accessed January 14,

2018. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/House_Martell.

8. "House Stark." A Wiki of Ice and Fire. November 21, 2017. Accessed January 14,

2018. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/House_Stark.

99 Ibid. 100 Crownlands, A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017.

Game of Thrones 18

9. "House Tully." A Wiki of Ice and Fire. August 15, 2017. Accessed January 14,

2018. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/House_Tully.

10. "Iron Islands." A Wiki of Ice and Fire. December 31, 2017. Accessed January 14,

2018. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Iron_Islands.

11. Martin, George R. R., Elio M. Garcia, and Linda Antonsson. The world of ice &

fire: the untold history of Westeros and the Game of thrones. New York: Bantam

Books, 2014.

12. "North." A Wiki of Ice and Fire. April 14, 2017. Accessed January 14, 2018.

http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/North.

13. "Old gods." A Wiki of Ice and Fire. November 1, 2017. Accessed January 14, 2018.

http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Old_gods.

14. "R'hllor." A Wiki of Ice and Fire. December 30, 2017. Accessed January 14, 2018.

http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/R%27hllor.

15. "Reach." A Wiki of Ice and Fire. September 11, 2017. Accessed January 14, 2018.

http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Reach.

16. "Riverlands." A Wiki of Ice and Fire. July 9, 2017. Accessed January 14, 2018.

http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Riverlands.

17. "Seven Kingdoms." A Wiki of Ice and Fire. February 7, 2017. Accessed January

14, 2018. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Seven_Kingdoms.

18. "Stormlands." A Wiki of Ice and Fire. October 25, 2017. Accessed January 14,

2018. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Stormlands.

19. "Vale of Arryn." A Wiki of Ice and Fire. October 25, 2017. Accessed January 14,

2018. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Vale_of_Arryn.

20. "Westerlands." A Wiki of Ice and Fire. January 10, 2018. Accessed January 14,

2018. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Westerlands.

Game of Thrones 19

Concerns and Threats

“Cold winds are rising.”

THE EASTERN THREAT

The surviving Targaryens, Viserys and Daenerys, have resurfaced; they currently reside in

Pentos, and are hosted by Magister Illyrio Mopatis. There are whispers of a marriage

between Daenerys and a Dothraki warlord, Khal Drogo. While they are no more than

children, the return of Viserys and Daenerys could mean that they are being supported for

their claims to the crown, and it could affect loyalty within the Seven Kingdoms. There

would be much to gain for some people if they were to help the Targaryens ascend to the

Iron Throne, and would call in hefty favours.101 A marriage would also mean inevitable

breeding, and perhaps the beginnings of a new Targaryen lineage. However, the Dothraki

and the khalasar have never crossed the Narrow Sea,102 and it would not seem that they

would have reason to now, given the might of the Westerosi armies.

THE DEATH OF JON ARRYN

With the sudden death of the Hand of the King, it is no surprise that some believe that

there was foul play. Lord Jon’s wife, Lysa, and their son, Sweetrobin, have fled to the Vale

out of fear. Jon Arryn’s death has left many questions unanswered, and Lysa retreating to

the Vale is a cause for concern. Mysteries remain from Jon Arryn’s inquiries, such as

business in Flea Bottom, and his interest in unions between Great Houses. While Jon

Arryn had no known enemies, many still claim that he was murdered, though a public

investigation would not be wise. Many had ties to Jon Arryn, and perhaps they each hold a

piece of the puzzle.

WINTER

Maesters across Westeros are proclaiming that the end of summer is near; since the

summer was so long this time, the upcoming winter will be even longer. 103 The regions of

Westeros all hold different advantages, each necessary to survive the winter. Lords must

take their population into consideration; famine and starvation are very prevalent during

the winter,104 and hungry subjects make unhappy ones.

Some believe in the myth of the White Walkers, and that they are to return. Ned Stark

brings with him the tale of a deserter from the Night’s Watch, claiming to have seen them.

His claims died with him, though it is important to prevent others from saying the same

101 Illyrio Mopatis, A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017. 102 Dothraki, A Wiki of Ice and Fire, 2017. 103 Westeros, Game of Thrones Wiki, 2017. 104 Ibid.

Game of Thrones 20

thing. The rumours must be quelled before the population grows fearful and restless of

what is nothing more than a bedtime story.

With the decade long summer coming to an end, perhaps so too will the decade long

peace in the realm.

REPAYING DEBTS

Currently, the Crown has accumulated over six-million golden dragons in debt.105 Debts

are owed to many, such as the Lannisters, the Tyrells, the Faith, and the Iron Bank. A

potential bankruptcy does not bode well for the kingdom, and some are beginning to

question the competencies of both King Robert and of his advisory board. Not only does

the Crown have ongoing expenses to be paid – such as construction, maintenance, and

agriculture –, but they spend a great deal on extravagancies.106 This is especially

concerning, considering that the vaults were overflowing with gold and wealth at the time

of King Aerys’ death.107

REFERENCES

1. Business Insider. “Game of Thrones: Economics of Westeros.” Video, 4:08.

March 20, 2015. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wSTZFf0NKUI.

2. “Dothraki.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. October 13, 2017. Accessed January 14, 2018.

http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Dothraki

3. “Illyrio Mopatis.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. December 24, 2017. Accessed January

14, 2018. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Illyrio_Mopatis

4. “Robert I Baratheon.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. December 28, 2017. Accessed

December 28, 2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Robert_I_Baratheon

5. “Westeros.” Game of Thrones Wiki. Accessed January 14, 2018.

http://gameofthrones.wikia.com/wiki/Westeros

105 Robert I Baratheon, Game of Thrones Wiki, 2017. 106 Business Insider, “Game of Thrones: Economics of Westeros,” video, 4:08, March 20, 2015,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wSTZFf0NKUI. 107 Ibid.

Game of Thrones 21

Character List

“It’s the family name that lives on. It’s all that lives on.”

The small council traditionally only has seven members, as well as the King of the Seven

Kingdoms; the seven councilmen reflect the tradition of the Faith of the Seven. However,

it is common to have other members in advisory positions. As such, wardens and advisors

are welcome to this session of the small council.

Robert Baratheon

Robert I Baratheon is Lord of the Seven Kingdoms and Protector of the Realm, after

having won the throne after the defeat of the Targaryens at the end of Robert’s Rebellion.

In his youth, the head of House Baratheon was revered for his strength and skill in battle.

In 298 AC, however, both his legitimacy and competency are being questioned by his

people. While not terribly concerned with his reputation, his main focus lies to the East,

in the form of Viserys and Daenerys Targaryen.

Eddard “Ned” Stark

Eddard Stark holds the title of Lord of Winterfell and Warden of the North, and has

recently become the Hand of the King, after the death of his mentor, Lord Jon Arryn. Ned

is known for his solemnity, honour, and sense of justice, though he is extremely protective

of his family and loved ones. Ned is traditional, as shown by keeping the old gods, and not

using an executioner. He is particularly concerned with the secrets that are hidden by the

Iron Throne, as well as the growing sense of unrest across Westeros.

Pycelle

Pycelle has served as Grand Maester for the last forty years, first under Targaryen rule, and

now, for the Baratheons. His years of experience are shown on the heavy chains he wears,

decorated with many links and jewels, each representing a skill he has mastered as a

maester. He betrayed the Targaryens by opening the gate to Tywin Lannister and his

army, initiating the Sack of King’s Landing. While he was pardoned by King Robert,

Pycelle still seems to be self-serving, or more loyal to House Lannister than to the realm.

Petyr “Littlefinger” Baelish

Littlefinger serves on the small council as the master of coin. He hails from a small, almost

insignificant house in the Vale. After becoming the head of the household, however, he

quickly rose to esteem, and he became master of coin only three years after his arrival in

King’s Landing. Ever since he was a boy, he demonstrated cleverness and cunning, and has

shown that he has an affinity for politics and for commerce. While his goals are unclear,

he is interested in building the reputation of House Baelish.

Renly Baratheon

Despite being the youngest Baratheon brother, Renly holds the titles of Lord of Storm’s

End and Lord Paramount of the Stormlands. He serves Robert on the small council as the

Game of Thrones 22

justiciar, more commonly known as the master of laws. As the justiciar, the City Watch of

King’s Landing reports to him. He is well-liked by smallfolk and nobles alike, and counts

Ser Loras Tyrell, his former page and squire, as his closest friend and confidant.

Stannis Baratheon

Stannis Baratheon is the Lord of Dragonstone, a title which he believes was bestowed

upon him as an insult; Robert gave their younger brother, Renly, the Baratheon seat of

Storm’s End, rather than to the older, more experienced, Stannis. Stannis is currently the

master of ships on the small council. He is a formidable soldier and strategist, having held

against the siege of Storm’s End during Robert’s Rebellion; he also fought against the

Greyjoys during their rebellion. Stannis is a humourless man, with a strong sense of duty

and justice.

Varys

Varys, known as the spider, is the master of whisperers on the small council. The eunuch

has a large network of spies, whom he refers to as his “little birds.” He is well-informed,

skilled in politics, and a master of disguise. Little is known about his private life and

personal intentions, but he has made it clear that he values peace and order.

Barristan Selmy

Barristan Selmy is Lord Commander of the Kingsguard, and has been serving on the

Kingsguard for four decades. He is seen by many as the best knight in the Seven

Kingdoms, and embodies a knight’s loyalty and honour. While he is well into his sixties,

he is still excellent in combat. Though he is sworn to follow the king’s orders, he is a man

of morals above all else.

High Septon

The High Septon’s true name is not known, as High Septons abandon them when

assuming their title. He is the current head of the Faith of the Seven, and primarily

preaches at the Great Sept of Baelor in King’s Landing. Since he has abandoned his name,

he is commonly known as “the fat one” to distinguish him. Since the riches of the Faith of

the Seven is not taxed, they are a very wealthy organization; King Robert and the crown

are indebted to them.

Mace Tyrell

Mace Tyrell is Lord of Highgarden, Defender of the Marches, High Marshal of the Reach,

and Warden of the South. The Tyrells are an extremely wealthy house, second only to the

Lannisters; King Robert owes Mace and his family a considerable amount of money. Like

the other Tyrells, he is very ambitious, and wishes to see one of his children on the Iron

Throne. He holds no love for the Dornishmen, after Oberyn crippled Mace’s son, Willas,

in a tourney.

Tywin Lannister

Tywin Lannister is Lord of Casterly Rock, Shield of Lannisport, and Warden of the West.

Game of Thrones 23

He is one of the most powerful men in Westeros, and is highly concerned with the

reputation of his family. King Robert has borrowed heavily from Tywin, owing him

roughly two million gold dragons. Tywin is cold and unforgiving, as seen during the revolt

of the Reynes and the Tarbecks, and through his betrayal of the Targaryens at the end of

Robert’s Rebellion.

Jaime Lannister

Jaime Lannister was named Warden of the East by King Robert Baratheon, after the death

of the previous warden, Jon Arryn. This greatly upsets the Arryns and the people of the

Vale, leaving Jaime in a precarious position. Given his title of Kingsguard and his

allegiance to House Lannister, his role of Warden of the East may prove to be a conflict of

interest.

Franklyn Fowler

Lord Franklyn Fowler holds the title of Warden of the Prince’s Pass in Dorne, as per the

tradition of his house. He is known as the Old Hawk, as homage to his house’s sigil. His

seat is Skyreach, which hosts the quickest route from the Red Mountains of Dorne to the

Reach, which could be a very valuable strategic asset. There continue to be tensions

between House Fowler and House Yronwood, due to their opposing positions during

Nymeria’s War.

Wyman Manderly

Wyman Manderly holds the titles of Lord of White Harbour, Warden of the White Knife,

Shield of the Faith, Defender of the Dispossessed, Lord Marshal of the Mander, and Knight

of the Order of the Green Hand. Despite many people seeing him as a fool, due to his

appearance, he is very clever and calculating. His control of the North’s only city, White

Harbour, has brought great wealth to his house; it is also the North’s primary trading port.

His seat is New Castle.

Anders Yronwood

Lord Anders Yronwood is Warden of the Stone Way in Dorne. He is also known as the

Bloodroyal; he holds this title as his house is the second most powerful in Dorne, after the

Martells. The Stone Way is one of the two major passes into Dorne, connecting it with the

Stormlands. The Yronwoods have a longstanding rivalry with the Fowlers.

Oberyn Martell

Prince Oberyn Martell is the youngest of the Martell siblings, after Doran and Elia. Known

as the Red Viper, he is notorious for his supposed use of poison in combat, knowledge that

he has acquired from his many travels and from his years at the Citadel. He has been sent

to King’s Landing at the behest of his brother, Doran, who is too ill for the journey;

Oberyn now occupies an advisory role on the Small Council, representing Dorne.

Edmure Tully

Edmure is the youngest child of Hoster Tully, but remains his heir, as the firstborn son.

Game of Thrones 24

Due to his father’s incapacitating illness, Edmure has taken over Hoster’s duties, and is

acting as the liege lord of the Riverlands in his stead. Edmure represents the interests of

the Riverlands and of House Tully and its bannermen, in an advisory role.

Tycho Nestoris

Tycho Nestoris is a representative of the Iron Bank of Braavos, the largest financial

institution in the world. While the Iron Bank is neutral, it has the power to turn the tides

depending on who it finances, given its massive reserves of wealth. The crown owes the

Iron Bank a large sum of money, and plans to have the debt repaid.

REFERENCES

1. “Anders Yronwood.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. December 8, 2017. Accessed December

28, 2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Anders_Yronwood

2. “Barristan Selmy.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. December 23, 2017. Accessed December

28, 2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Barristan_Selmy

3. “Bloodroyal.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. February 9, 2016. Accessed December 28, 2017.

http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Bloodroyal

4. “Boneway.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. March 31, 2017. Accessed December 28, 2017.

http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Boneway

5. “Eddard Stark.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. December 26, 2017. Accessed December 28,

2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Eddard_Stark

6. “Edmure Tully.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. October 17, 2017. Accessed December 29,

2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Edmure_Tully

7. “Faith of the Seven.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. December 4, 2017. Accessed December

29, 2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Faith_of_the_Seven

8. “Franklyn Fowler.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. November 30, 2017. Accessed December

28, 2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Franklyn_Fowler

9. “High Septon.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. December 6, 2017. Accessed December 29,

2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/High_Septon

10. “High Septon (fat one).” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. April 7, 2017. Accessed December

29, 2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/High_Septon_(fat_one)

11. “House Baelish.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. July 8, 2017. Accessed December 29, 2017.

http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/House_Baelish

Game of Thrones 25

12. “House Baratheon.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. September 14, 2017. Accessed December

29, 2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/House_Baratheon

13. “House Fowler.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. August 17, 2016. Accessed December 28,

2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/House_Fowler

14. “House Lannister.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. November 10, 2017. Accessed December

29, 2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/House_Lannister

15. “House Manderly.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. April 27, 2017. Accessed December 28,

2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/House_Manderly

16. “House Martell.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. November 17, 2017. Accessed December

29, 2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/House_Martell

17. “House Yronwood.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. October 26, 2017. Accessed December

28, 2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/House_Yronwood

18. “Iron Bank of Braavos.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. September 7, 2017. Accessed

December 29, 2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Iron_Bank_of_Braavos

19. “Jaime Lannister.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. December 18, 2017. Accessed December

29, 2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Jaime_Lannister

20. “Mace Tyrell.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. August 13, 2017. Accessed December 29, 2017.

http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Mace_Tyrell

21. “Master of laws.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. August 12, 2016. Accessed December 29,

2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Master_of_laws

22. “Oberyn Martell.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. November 17, 2017. Accessed December

29, 2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Oberyn_Martell

23. “Petyr Baelish.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. October 14, 2017. Accessed December 29,

2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Petyr_Baelish

24. “Prince’s Pass.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. December 4, 2015. Accessed December 28,

2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Prince%27s_Pass

25. “Pycelle.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. December 29, 2017. Accessed December 29, 2017.

http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Pycelle

26. “Renly Baratheon.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. December 8, 2017. Accessed December

29, 2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Renly_Baratheon

27. “Robert I Baratheon.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. December 28, 2017. Accessed

December 28, 2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Robert_I_Baratheon

Game of Thrones 26

28. “Skyreach.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. December 3, 2014. Accessed December 28, 2017.

http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Skyreach

29. “Small council.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. December 11, 2017. Accessed December 28,

2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Small_council

30. “Stannis Baratheon.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. October 16, 2017. Accessed December

29, 2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Stannis_Baratheon

31. “Tycho Nestoris.” Game of Thrones Wiki. August 31, 2017. Accessed December 29,

2017. http://gameofthrones.wikia.com/wiki/Tycho_Nestoris

32. “Tywin Lannister.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. October 21, 2017. Accessed December 29,

2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Tywin_Lannister

33. “Varys.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. July 19, 2017. Accessed December 29, 2017.

http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Varys

34. “Warden.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. August 23, 2015. Accessed December 28, 2017.

http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Warden

35. “Warden of the Prince’s Pass.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. September 3, 2015. Accessed

December 28, 2017.

http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Warden_of_the_Prince%27s_Pass

36. “Warden of the Stone Way.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. December 28, 2015. Accessed

December 28, 2017.

http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Warden_of_the_Stone_Way

37. “Warden of the White Knife.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. April 14, 2015. Accessed

December 28, 2017.

http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Warden_of_the_White_Knife

38. “White Harbour.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. April 27, 2017. Accessed December 28,

2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/White_Harbor

39. “Wyman Manderly.” A Wiki of Ice and Fire. April 27, 2017. Accessed December 28,

2017. http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Wyman_Manderly.