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Kingsguard

2007-06-17T14:06:32Z

Geroldhightower:

The '''Kingsguard''' are the royal bodyguards of [[Westeros]].

{{spoiler}}

==History==

The Kingsguard was founded by Aegon the Conqueror of [[House Targaryen]] as an elite bodyguard for those of royal blood. A poetic name for them is "the White Swords", or "the White Cloaks". Historically composed of seven knights sworn to a lifetime of service, members are to serve unto death despite age or any physical or mental ailments. During his time as a member of the Kingsguard a member is not allowed to hold lands, sire children, marry, or have any worldly allegiance except to his monarch. Some of the greatest warriors, battle commanders, swordsmen, and famous historical figures in the history of Westeros have served in the Kingsguard, including members of House Targaryen itself.

The knights of the guard wear all white capes, carry plain white shields and with some occasional exceptions wear little or no ornamentation or sigils on their armor. This plain but striking attire leads credence to their role of being seen and not heard until their advice is asked. Discretion and wisdom are often as important skills as martial ability being as they are expected to be with their King or Queen at all times, privy to all their secrets, plans and every aspect of their personal lives.

The Kingsguard has continuously existed since the Conquest. Its uninterrupted history is recorded in the White Book, a volume maintained by the head of the Kingsguard, known as the Lord Commander, and stored in the Round Room of the White Sword Tower, a four story tower built into one of the walls of the [[Red Keep]] of [[Westeros#King's Landing|King's Landing]]. In the White Book, officially known as the Book of the Brothers, each member of the Kingsguard is given one page on which his personal history and a record of his deeds are written. Because of its status as the royal bodyguard and the many remarkable figures who have been members, the Kingsguard has been involved in many major historical events in Westeros.

After the [[War of the Usurper]], [[Robert Baratheon]], the new king, chose to continue the tradition of the Kingsguard. He went as far as to elevate a member of [[Aerys II]]'s Kingsguard, Barristan Selmy, to the position of Lord Commander. Selmy held that position until dismissed in an unprecedented move by Robert's heir, [[Joffrey Baratheon|Joffrey I]]. After Selmy's dismissal the last of the remaining knights from Aerys II's Kingsguard, Joffrey's uncle [[Jaime Lannister]], was appointed Lord Commander.

===Historical Members===
*Lord Commander Ser Gerold [[House Hightower|Hightower]], known as the White Bull. Member during the reign of [[Aerys II]]. Killed at the [[Battle of the Tower of Joy|Tower of Joy]].
*[[Aemon the Dragonknight|Prince Aemon]], known as the Dragonknight, later Lord Commander. Killed defending his brother [[Aegon IV|King Aegon IV]] from an assassination attempt by two brothers of House Toyne.
*Prince Lewyn [[House Martell|Martell]]. Member during the reign of [[Aerys II]]. Killed by Lyn Corbray at the [[Battle of the Trident]].
*Ser Arryk. Died fighting his twin, Erryk, during the civil war known as [[The Dance of Dragons]].
*Ser Arthur Dayne, known as the Sword of the Morning. Member during the reign of [[Aerys II]]. Killed at the [[War of the Usurper#Battle of the Tower of Joy - The End of Aerys's Kingsguard|Tower of Joy]].
*Ser Criston Cole, later Lord Commander. Called the Kingmaker. His decision to crown [[Aegon II]] against the deceased king's wishes lead to the Targaryen civil war known as [[The Dance of Dragons]].
*Ser Donnel of Duskendale. Member during the reign of [[Daeron II|King Daeron the Good]].
*Ser Duncan the Tall. Famed knight and later Lord Commander. Companion to [[Aegon V|King Aegon V]] during the latter's childhood.
*Ser Erryk. Died fighting his twin, Arryk, during the civil war known as [[The Dance of Dragons]].
*Ser Gwayne Corbray. Battled Daemon Blackfyre for nearly an hour at the battle of Redgrass Field during the [[Blackfyre Rebellion]] before being defeated.
*Ser Gwayne Gaunt. Member during the reign of [[Aerys II]]. Killed during the Defiance of Duskendale.
*Ser Harlan Grandison. Member during the reign of [[Aerys II]]. Died in his sleep prior to [[War of the Usurper]], replaced by ser [[Jaime Lannister]].
*Ser Jonothor Darry. Member during the reign of [[Aerys II]]. Killed at the [[War of the Usurper#Battle of the Trident|Battle of the Trident]].
*Ser Lucamore Strong. Called Lucamore the Lusty after it became known he secretly took three wives and fathered numerous children. For this, he was gelded by the rest of the Kingsguard and sent to the [[Night's Watch|Wall]] by [[Jaehaerys I]].
*Ser Oswell Whent. Member during the reign of [[Aerys II]]. Known for his dark humor. Killed at the [[Tower of Joy]].
*Ser Roland Crakehall. Member during the reign of [[Daeron II]].
*Ser Ryam [[House Redwyne|Redwyne]], later Lord Commander. Thought to be one of the best knights and worst King's Hands that Westeros had ever seen.
*Ser Serwyn of the Mirror Shield. Legendary knight.
*Ser [[House Toyne|Terrence Toyne]]. Executed for having an affair with [[Aegon IV|King Aegon IV's]] mistress. His execution led to a failed assassination attempt by his two brothers resulting in the death of [[Aemon the Dragonknight|Prince Aemon]].
*Ser Willem Wylde. Member during the reign of [[Daeron II|King Daeron the Good]].

==Recent Members==
===Under Robert Baratheon===
It should be noted that after the War, King Robert was left in the awkward position of having to fill not one but five vacancies in the Kingsguard. This, along with the blatantly political appointments made by his wife, Queen [[Cersei Lannister]], led many to regard this as a low point in the Kingsguard's history. The continued inclusion of Jaime Lannister despite his betrayal of Aerys II was poorly received by many outside of the Lannister inner circle.

*Ser [[Barristan Selmy]], Lord Commander. Served under [[Aerys II]]. Pardoned by King Robert after the [[War of the Usurper]] and promoted to Lord Commander.
*Ser [[Arys Oakheart]]
*Ser Boros Blount
*Ser [[Jaime Lannister]]. Served under [[Aerys II]]. Survived the [[War of the Usurper]] and retained in his position in the Kingsguard under King Robert.
*Ser Mandon Moore
*Ser Meryn Trant
*Ser Preston Greenfield

===Under [[Joffrey Baratheon]]===
{{spoiler}}
The Kingsguard entered an even more controversial time after the death of King Robert. His heir, King Joffrey, dismissed Lord Commander Selmy, something never before done in the history of the Kingsguard. This time period also saw the appointment of a unanointed and brutal [[House Lannister]] retainer, Sandor Clegane. These changes in the Kingsguard including the appointment of Lannister loyalists and Loras Tyrell of [[House Tyrell]], Lannister allies in the [[War of the Five Kings]], can be viewed as attempts to make political appointments in order to solidify Lannister power on the throne.

*Lord Commander [[Barristan Selmy]], dismissed in an unprecedented move by King Joffrey after Robert's death. Joins Daenerys Targaryen in the far east as her advisor and Queensguard.
*Lord Commander [[Jaime Lannister]], elevated after Selmy's dismissal. His right hand was amputated by the [[Brave Companions]] at Vargo Hoat's order after his capture. Returned to King's Landing by [[Brienne of Tarth]].
*[[Sandor Clegane]], deserted during the [[Battle of the Blackwater]]. Controversially, Sandor was raised to the white cloak by King Joffrey in spite of his not being an anointed knight.
*Ser [[Arys Oakheart]], killed by Areo Hotah in [[Dorne]] during a failed coup.
*Ser Balon Swann.
*Ser Boros Blount, removed for surrendering his ward, [[Tommen Baratheon|Prince Tommen]] to Tommen's uncle, [[Tyrion Lannister]]. Despite this, no harm came to Tommen and Blount was later reinstated.
*Ser [[Loras Tyrell]], known as the Knight of Flowers and former lover of [[Renly Baratheon]].
*Ser Mandon Moore, killed by Tyrion Lannister's squire, Podrick Payne at the [[Battle of the Blackwater]] after he tried to murder Tyrion.
*Ser Meryn Trant.
*Ser Osmund Kettleblack, former sellsword. While superficially Ser Osmund and his two brothers are sworn swords of Cersei Lannister, in truth they are agents of [[Petyr Baelish]].
*Ser Preston Greenfield, killed by rioters in [[King's Landing]].

== See also ==
*[[Queensguard]]
*[[Rainbow Guard]]

== References and Sources ==
{{EnWP|Kingsguard}}

[[Category:Organizations]]

Sansa Stark

2007-06-17T09:52:59Z

Geroldhightower:

'''Sansa Stark''' is the elder daughter of [[Catelyn Stark|Catelyn]] and [[Eddard Stark]]. She possesses the traditional feminine graces of her milieu and is a strong believer in the world of chivalry portrayed in stories and songs. She is beautiful and excels at many female leisure activities, including singing, dancing, playing musical instruments, sewing, fashion, and social graces. She does not always have a good relationship with her sister Arya, whose interests are opposite in many respects and bewildering to Sansa. She was briefly accompanied by a [[direwolf]] pup named Lady.

==Appearance==
Sansa is traditionally beautiful, with high cheekbones, vivid blue eyes, thick auburn hair and, as she grows up, a tall and graceful figure.

==History==
When her father became the Hand of the King, eleven-year old Sansa was delighted at the prospect of life at court in [[King's Landing]], and thrilled to be betrothed to the handsome Prince [[Joffrey Baratheon|Joffrey]]. She adored Joffrey in spite of his violent mood swings, and gave false testimony defending him against Arya, which resulted in the death of her own direwolf, Lady. She was dismayed when her father announced plans to send her home and end the betrothal. Still trusting those at the royal court to be noble, she told Queen Cersei of her father's plans to send her away, unknowingly aiding the queen's plot against Eddard. It was only when her father was beheaded at Joffrey's command that Sansa saw Joffrey for what he really was.

She remained betrothed to Joffrey, suffering verbal and physical abuse at his hands and on his orders, until she was set aside in favor of [[Margaery Tyrell]]. No longer certain of whom she could trust, she accepted the promise of the alcoholic knight Ser Dontos Hollard that he would see her sent safely home, seeing him as a gallant rescuer. Sansa remained courteous to everyone she met, including Joffrey's bodyguard [[Sandor Clegane]], who was by turns brusque and gentle with her, and the [[House Tyrell|Tyrells]], who were planning to have her marry their heir Willas Tyrell.

After revealing the Tyrell plan to Ser Dontos (who told his master Petyr Baelish, who in turn told the Lannisters), Sansa was instead forced to marry the king's uncle, the dwarf [[Tyrion Lannister]]. Dismayed by her new husband's hideous appearance and horrified by the deaths of her siblings and parents, a now thirteen-year old Sansa nonetheless hid her feelings and tried to be the ideal wife she had been trained to be, though her disgust at the thought of sex with her husband was clear and he never forced her to consummate the marriage.

Sansa ultimately escaped King's Landing on the day of Joffrey's wedding during the chaos caused by Joffrey's poisoning and death. Believing Ser Dontos to be her savior, she was yet again disillusioned when she learned that he was working for payment, from [[Petyr Baelish]]. Baelish took her by ship to the Eyrie, which was ruled by Sansa's aunt, [[Lysa Arryn]], whom Baelish then married. Sansa was instructed to pretend she was Baelish's bastard daughter, Alayne Stone, as the queen was searching for her. She again tried to fit in, playing with her young cousin [[Robert Arryn]], but Baelish was attracted to Sansa and kissed her, not knowing that his wife was watching. He murdered his wife after she demonstrated her instability and threatened Sansa.

While at the Eyrie, Sansa pretended to be Baelish's bastard daughter, taking the name and persona of 'Alayne Stone' so thoroughly that she no longer thought of herself as Sansa. After Lysa's death Alayne became the mistress of the Eyrie, demonstrating again her aptness for household duties, and learned something of courtly intrigues from Baelish. He also planned for her marriage to [[Harrold Hardyng]], the heir to [[House Arryn]], and the eventual revelation of her true identity and the reclaiming of Winterfell in her name.

==References and sources==
{{EnWP|House Stark}}

[[Category:POV characters|Stark, Sansa]]
[[Category:House Stark]]
[[Category:Noblewomen|Stark, Sansa]]
[[Category:Characters from the North|Stark, Sansa]]

Talk:Aegon's Landing

2007-05-07T04:33:05Z

Geroldhightower:

Is it really true that the Westerosi calender counts from Aegon's landing? I remember something about him dating his reign fom the day he got the High Septon's blessing.

Talk:Aegon's Landing

2007-05-07T04:32:23Z

Geroldhightower: New page: Is it really true that the Westerosi callener counts from Aegon's landing? I remember something about him dating his reign fom the day he got the High Septon' blessing.

Is it really true that the Westerosi callener counts from Aegon's landing? I remember something about him dating his reign fom the day he got the High Septon' blessing.

Citadel

2007-05-06T14:26:28Z

Geroldhightower:

The '''Citadel''' is a building in [[Oldtown]] that serves as headquarters to the order of the [[Maesters]]. It is the place where they convene, study, and train new members. It is also the residence of the archmaesters.

[[Category:Buildings]]
[[Category:Places in the Reach]]

House Hightower

2007-05-06T12:42:12Z

Geroldhightower: /* Historical members */

{{Noble House
| House_name = House Hightower
| Coat_of_arms = A white tower with a fire in the top
| Words = "We light the way"
| Seat = Hightower
| Current_Lord = Lord Leyton Hightower
| Region = [[The Reach]], near [[Oldtown]]
| Title = Voice of Oldtown Lord of the Port Lord of the High Tower Defender of the Citadel Beacon of the South
| Heir = Ser Baelor Hightower
| Overlord = [[House Tyrell]]
| Founded_in = [[Age of Dawn]]
}}
House Hightower is one of the most important and powerfull vazals of the Tyrells (and before them of House Gardner).

The family is very old and exists since the Dawn of Days when the were petty-kings. During the comming of the [[Andal|Andals]] and the creation of the Kingdom of [[the Reach]] the Hightowers allied with the newcomers. Thus they were able the keep their wealth and lands.
[[Oldtown]] and High Tower are in their keep. The sigil of House Hightower is a white tower, with a fire in the top. Their words are '''We Light the Way'''.

==House Genealogy==
{{familytree/start|style=font: 75% sans-serif;}}
{{familytree | | | | |?| | | | | | | | | | |LE| | | |=
|?=Unknown Hightower|LE=[[Kingsguard#Historical Members|Ser Gerold Hightower]]| | | | | | }}
{{familytree | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | }}
{{familytree | | | | |LE|-|RE| | | | | | | | | | | | |=
| |LE=[[House Hightower#Lord Leyton|Lord Leyton]]|RE=[[House Florent#Rhea|Rhea Florent]]| | | | | }}
{{familytree | |,|-|-|-|^|-|-|-|-|-|-|-|v|-|-|-|v|-|-|-|-|-|-|-|-|-|-|-|v|-|.| }}
{{familytree |DO|-|ME| |OL|y|MO| |OB|-|DV| |EL|y|RE|)|LL| |=
|DO=[[House Hightower#Other current members|Ser Baelor]]|ME=Ronda Rowen|MO=Alerie|OL=[[House Tyrell#Mace|Mace Tyrell]]|EL=Denyse|RE=[[House Redwyne#Ser Desmond|Ser Desmond Redwyne]]|DV=Arthur Ambrose|OB=Alysanne|LL=Mallora "The Mad Maid|LY=Lynesse|JM=[[House Mormont#Jorah|Jorah Mormont]]|TL=Tregar Ormollen| }}
{{familytree | | | |,|-|-|-|v|-|-|-|^|-|-|-|v|-|-|-|.| | | | | | | |!| | | |!|}}
{{familytree | | |WL| |GR|-|LN| |MR| |LR| | | | | |DE| | |)|SG|=
|DE=Denys Redwyne|WL=[[House Tyrell#Willas|Willas]]|GR=[[House Tyrell#Garlan|Garlan]]|MR=[[House Tyrell#Margaery|Margaery]]|LR=[[House Tyrell#Loras|Loras]]|LN=Leonette Fossoway|VC=Elinor|JB=Alyn Ambrose|SG=Ser Garth| }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!|}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |)|SG|=
|SG=Leyla| }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |`|.|}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |JM|-|SG|-|TL|=
|SG=Leyla|JM=[[House Mormont#Jorah|Jorah Mormont]]|TL=Tregar Ormollen| }}
{{familytree/end}}
==Members==
=== Leyton Hightower===
Lord of Hightower. His titles are Voice of Oldtown, Lord of the Port, Lord of the High Tower, Defender of the Citadel, Beacon of the South. He is also called The Old Man of Oldtown. It is not clear if that is aonother title of the Lord of Hightower or a personal alias.

===Lynesse===
Daughter of Lord Leyton. At the tournament of Lannisport she met Lord [[House Mormont#Jorah|Jorah Mormont]]. He became madly in love with her and asked if he could wear her colours in the comming tournament. She aggreed and motivated by this he excelled in the tournament and won. He crowned her Queen of Love and Beauty and asked for her hand. They were married short after. The marriage soon became a desillusion for her. Jorah was not rich and could not buy her things for her (expansive taste). He was never able to repeat his performance in a tournament of Lannisport and his defeats cost also money. To get money Jorah sold some poachers to a slaver. When this was discovered the had to flee to the [[Free Cities]]. Lynesse became tired of being poor and left Jorah to become the mistress of Tregar Ormollen of Lys.

===Other current members===
* [[House Florent#Rhea|Rhea]], Lady of the Hightower, fourth wife of Lord Leyton. She was born a [[House Florent|Florent]] and is the daughter of Lord Alester Florent.
* Ser Baelor. Eldest son of Lord Leyton and his heir. He is married to Ronda Rowen.
* Malora. Daughter of Lord Leyton. Known as "the Mad Maid"
* [[House Tyrell#Alerie Hightower|Alerie]], Lady of Highgarden. Daughter of Lord Leyton, married to Lord [[Mace Tyrell]].
* Ser Garth. Son of Lord Leyton, called Greysteel
* Denyse. Daughter of Lord Leyton, married with Ser Desmond Redwyne. They have a son called Denys.
* Leyla. Daughter of Lord Leyton
* Alysanne. Daughter of Lord Leyton, married to Lord Arthur Ambrose
* Ser Gunther. Son of Lord Leyton, married to Jeyne Fossoway of the green apple [[House Fossoway|Fossoways]]
* Ser Humfrey. Son of Lord Leyton.

===Historical members===
* Ser Gerold Hightower. Nickname: The White Bull. Uncle of Lord Leyton. He was Lord Commander of the Kingsguard. After the death of King [[House Targaryen#Aerys|Aerys]] and prince [[House Targaryen#Rhaegar|Rhaegar]] he stayed loyal to the Targaryens and died in the [[Battle of the Tower of Joy]].
* Ser Otto Hightower. According to history he was [[Hand of the King|Hand of a King]], famous for his learning but a failure as hand.
* Runcel Hightower. He was Lord Commander of the [[Night’s Watch]] and tried to leave the Watch to his bastard son.
* Ser Abelar Hightower. According to [[The Hedge Knight]] he was a participant of the Tournament of Ashford and heir of Hightower

===References===
{{EnWP|Minor_houses_in_A_Song_of_Ice_and_Fire#House Hightower}}
[[Category:Houses from the Reach|House Hightower]]
[[Category:Noble houses|House Hightower]]

Tower of joy

2007-05-06T11:31:56Z

Geroldhightower: New page: The Tower of Joy was a ruined tower in the south of Westeros, close to the Mountains of Dorne. It was used as a hideout by Rhaegar Targaryen after the abduction...

The Tower of Joy was a ruined tower in the south of Westeros, close to the Mountains of Dorne. It was used as a hideout by [[House Targaryen#Rhaegar|Rhaegar Targaryen]] after the abduction of [[House Stark#Lyanna|Lyanna Stark]]. Lyanna stayed there after Rhaegar left to lead his fathers war against Robert Baratheon's rebellion. At the end of the War, [[Eddard Stark]] found his sister dying. The Tower of Joy is also the location of a famous fight between three memebers of the Kingsguard and a small party led by Eddard Stark. The exact reason for the fight is unknown.

Jon Snow/Theories

2007-05-06T11:18:11Z

Geroldhightower:

Many readers believe that Jon is not the son of [[Eddard Stark]]. Instead, he is the son of [[House Stark#Lyanna|Lyanna Stark]] and [[House Targaryen#Rhaegar|Rhaegar Targayen]]. Rhaegar and Lyanna spent some time together a the [[Tower of Joy]] early in the war that brought down [[House Targaryen]]. At the end of the war, about one year later, Eddard found his sister dying "in a bed of blood," where he gave her an unknown promise before she died. Eddard and his companions fought three of the [[Kingsguard]], namely [[Gerold Hightower]], [[Arthur Dayne]], and [[Oswell Whent]], which resulted in the death of the three knights and all of Eddard's companions except Howland Reed. The reasons for the presence of the Kingsguard and the fight is unknown.

Jon Snow/Theories

2007-05-06T11:17:14Z

Geroldhightower:

Many readers believe that Jon is not the son of [[Eddard Stark]]. Instead, he is the son of [[House Stark#Lyanna|Lyanna Stark]] and [[Rhaegar Targayen]]. Rhaegar and Lyanna spent some time together a the [[Tower of Joy]] early in the war that brought down [[HouseTargaryen]]. At the end of the war, about one year later, Eddard found his sister dying "in a bed of blood," where he gave her an unknown promise before she died. Eddard and his companions fought three of the [[Kingsguard]], namely [[Gerold Hightower]], [[Arthur Dayne]], and [[Oswell Whent]], which resulted in the death of the three knights and all of Eddard's companions except Howland Reed. The reasons for the presence of the Kingsguard and the fight is unknown.

Jon Snow/Theories

2007-05-06T11:03:54Z

Geroldhightower:

Many readers believe that Jon is not the son of [[Eddard Stark]]. Instead, he is the son of [[Lyanna Stark]] and [[Rhaegar Targayen]]. Rhaegar and Lyanna spent some time together a the [[Tower of Joy]] early in the war that brought down [[HouseTargaryen]]. At the end of the war, about one year later, Eddard found his sister dying "in a bed of blood," where he gave her an unknown promise before she died. Eddard and his companions fought three of the [[Kingsguard]], namely [[Gerold Hightower]], [[Arthur Dayne]], and [[Oswell Whent]], which resulted in the death of the three knights and all of Eddard's companions except Howland Reed. The reasons for the presence of the Kingsguard and the fight is unknown.

Jon Snow/Theories

2007-05-06T11:00:44Z

Geroldhightower: New page: Many readers believe that Jon is not the son of Eddard Stark. Instead, he is the son of Lyanna Stark and Rhaegar Targayen. Rhaegar and Lyanna spent some time together a the Tower of Joy ea...

Many readers believe that Jon is not the son of Eddard Stark. Instead, he is the son of Lyanna Stark and Rhaegar Targayen. Rhaegar and Lyanna spent some time together a the Tower of Joy early in the war that brought down the Targaryens. At the end of the war, about one year later, Eddard found his sister dying "in a bed of blood," where he gave her an unknown promise before she died. Eddard and his companions fought three of the Kingsguard, namely Gerold Hightower, Arthur Dayne, and Oswell Whent, which resulted in the death of the three knights and all of Eddard's companions except Howland Reed. The reasons for the presence of the Kingsguard and the fight is unknown.

Alchemists' Guild

2007-04-26T13:10:17Z

Geroldhightower: Undo revision 2096 by Special:Contributions/Mistermanticore (User talk:Mistermanticore)

The '''Alchemists' Guild''' is an ancient society of learned men, sometimes called pyromancers, who have claimed many magical and arcane abilities through the years. In its earlier years, the Guild was very powerful, but by the reign of [[Robert Baratheon]], the Guild's abilities and influence are greatly diminished. The [[Maesters]] have largely supplanted them. At the height of their power, Alchemists claimed the ability to transmute metals and create living creatures of flame. In their later years, they still hint at great powers, but the only skill they demonstrate is the creation of [[wildfire]].

Wildfire is a volatile liquid similar to napalm and Greek fire. Alchemists typically refer to it as "the substance". Wildfire can be set aflame with the smallest spark, and sometimes even by the heat of sunlight. As it ages, it becomes even more volatile. Once wildfire is lit, it burns with green flames that are almost impossible to extinguish. Wildfire will seep into many materials, making them flammable as well. Great quantities of wildfire will combust with explosive force. It is typically commissioned for use as a weapon of war,

The Alchemists create wildfire in their Guildhall, which is set beneath Visenya's hill in King's Landing. The hall is an imposing labyrinth of cold, black stone. Acolytes of the Guild make wildfire in solitary cells. The Alchemists claim that the creation of wildfire is a delicate and magical process. Should the wildfire explode, the cells' false ceilings are designed to collapse and fill the cell with sand, snuffing the fire as well as killing the acolyte. Wildfire is contained in clay jars that are textured to increase grip. These jars must be handled carefully to prevent fracture or combustion. The most volatile jars are housed in storerooms of water and transported in sand-filled wagons. At any one time, the Guild's store of wildfire could number in the thousands of jars.

The Alchemists enjoyed a period of increased influence during the reign of King Aerys II, who took great pleasure in wildfire. Aerys appointed one of the Alchemists, Lord Rossart, as his final hand, and commissioned him to create a vast quantity of wildfire to destroy King's Landing should he lose the War of the Usurper. During the War of the Five Kings, Cersei Lannister commissioned a great quantity of wildfire for the city's defenses. The Alchemists reported an unexplainable increase in the effectiveness of their spells, where it was quickly noted that it hadn't been as easy since the time of the dragons, which allowed them to create the substance more quickly.

[[Category:Organizations]]

{{EnWP|Organizations_in_A_Song_of_Ice_and_Fire#The_Alchemists.27_Guild}}

Across the narrow sea

2007-04-23T17:21:59Z

Geroldhightower: New page: A large part of the narrative in George R. R. Martin's epic fantasy series A Song of Ice and Fire lies '''across the narrow sea''' from Westeros, an area comprised of a lar...

A large part of the narrative in [[George R. R. Martin]]'s [[epic fantasy]] series [[A Song of Ice and Fire]] lies '''across the narrow sea''' from [[Westeros]], an area comprised of a large, unnamed eastern continent and a number of islands.

==Geography==

The Narrow Sea separates [[Westeros]] and the lands to the east. In the north of the sea lies the icy island of Ibben and in the south the hot Summer Isles. The lands to the east of the narrow sea are mostly consolidated into a large continent of unknown name. Being roughly the size of [[Eurasia]], this continent's geography and climate vary greatly. The western coastline is characterized by green rolling hills, the massive Forest of [[Free Cities (ASOIAF)#Qohor|Qohor]], and extensive island chains such as [[Free Cities (ASOIAF)#Braavos|Braavos]] and [[Free Cities (ASOIAF)#Lys|Lys]]. The middle of the continent is covered by the flat grasslands of the Dothraki Sea and the arid wastes known as the Red Lands to the east. Beyond the Red Lands, the city of Qarth sits beside the straits that lead to the Jade Sea. The south is dominated by dry rolling hills and has a [[Mediterranean climate]], with a coastline along the Summer Sea and [[Ghis|Slaver's Bay]].

The north coast of the mainland is separated from the polar cap by the Shivering Sea. To the south, across the Summer Sea, lies the uncharted continent of Sothoryos, containing the cities of Yeen and Zamettar. In the extreme east, across the Jade Sea, sit Asshai, Yi Ti, and the mysterious region called the Shadow Lands. It is a matter of speculation whether these easternmost regions are physically attached to the mainland or are separated from it by the Jade Sea.

==Civilizations, Nations and Regions==

===Asshai===
Often called Asshai-by-the-Shadow, this port city borders the Shadow Lands, far to the southeast. To go to Asshai can be described as to "pass beneath the shadow". Asshai is a popular trading destination for ships in the Jade Sea, and it exports such goods as amber and [[obsidian|dragonglass]]. It holds a significant amount of arcane knowledge. Of any current location, it is the most likely to have dragonlore. Ancient books of Asshai also record the Azor Ahai prophecy followed by members of the [[Westeros#R'hllor|R'hllor]] faith. Asshai and its people have an ominous reputation in other lands. Asshai'i are described as having a dark and solemn appearance. The Dothraki believe that Asshai'i are spawn of shadows. The area of the Shadow Lands and Asshai are sometimes referred to simply as "the Shadow".

Notable Asshai'i:
* Lady [[Characters from A Song of Ice and Fire#Melisandre|Melisandre]]
* Quaithe of the Shadow, a shadowbinder who seeks out [[Daenerys Targaryen]] and counsels her to go to Asshai. She wears a red-lacquered mask much like natives of the Shadow Lands.

===The Disputed Lands===
An area on the mainland of the eastern continent, located between the [[Free Cities (A Song of Ice and Fire)|Free Cities]] of [[Free Cities (A Song of Ice and Fire)#Tyrosh|Tyrosh]], [[Free Cities (A Song of Ice and Fire)#Myr|Myr]] and [[Free Cities (A Song of Ice and Fire)#Volantis|Volantis]], with [[Free Cities (A Song of Ice and Fire)#Lys|Lys]] sitting just off the coast. The River Rhoyne marks its eastern border. Myr and Lys fight constantly over control of the territory, frequently drawing Tyrosh and Volantis into the struggle as well. The war over the Disputed Lands is often lumped in with the similar struggle over control of the Stepstones.

===The Dothraki Sea===
The Dothraki Sea is a vast, flat grassland inhabited by the Dothraki people, a copper-skinned race of warlike nomads with their own language and unique culture. The Dothraki live in tribes called khalasars, each led by a chief called a khal. Khalasars are broken into groups, called khas, which are each led by one of the khal's captains, called khos. When a khal dies, a new khal may take control of the khalasar or the khos may break away and form new khalasars led by their former khos. Dothraki are expert riders and their horses are of prime importance in their culture, used for food, transportation, raw materials, and warfare.

Khalasars rely heavily on raiding neighboring nations, and each other, for subsistence. Mounted archery forms the backbone of their strategy. Warriors also use whips and curved cavalry swords called arakhs. They eschew armor as cowardly and typically wear painted vests and horsehair breeches. Men grow their hair in braided topknots, which they must cut whenever they are defeated in battle. They mark victories by putting bells in their braids, often taking bells from the Dothraki they have slain. Thus, a warrior's topknot is a symbol of his prowess.

Khalasars have no fixed settlements. Dothraki can erect large grass canopies for special occasions, but typically live in portable tents, always on the move. The Dothraki have only one permanent city, called Vaes Dothrak, which serves as their capital. While khalasars are typically rivals on the plains, in Vaes Dothrak all Dothraki must behave as brothers. No one may spill blood or draw a blade in the city, on pain of death. The wives of khals, called khaleesis, live in Vaes Dothrak after their husbands die. There they rule over all the khals as the Dosh Khaleen.

===The Free Cities===
{{main|Free Cities (A Song of Ice and Fire)}}

The nine Free Cities are Lys, Myr, Pentos, Braavos, Lorath, Norvos, Qohor, Volantis, and Tyrosh. They are independent city-states that, with the exception of Braavos, were all originally founded as colonies of Valyria. The Free Cities are located on the western edge of the eastern continent: along the coast, further inland, or on islands in the Narrow Sea. Citizens of the Free Cities speak a distinct form of Valyrian, though the language of Westeros is also used.

===Ghis===
{{main|Ghis}}

South of the Dothraki Sea is Slaver's Bay, which holds three port city-states called Yunkai, Meereen, and Astapor. The cities were built from the rubble of Old Ghis, an ancient rival of Valyria that was crushed by that nation thousands of years before the events of [[A Song of Ice and Fire]]. Present inhabitants of the bay are a mongrel race that speak a bastardized version of Valyrian. The economies of the cities are largely based on slave labor and the slave trade. Treatment of slaves is often harsh, while citizens live in relative luxury. Professional soldiers of all three cities wear outlandish costumes and hairstyles that limit their usefulness in battle. The cities' militaries are highly dependent on additional slave and mercenary armies for the actual fighting. Astapor trains and sells elite eunuch spearmen called [[Wars_in_A_Song_of_Ice_and_Fire#Unsullied|Unsullied]] that are renowned for their discipline and effectiveness. Those Unsullied that have not yet been sold are used to defend the city when the need arises.

The city of New Ghis also exists in the region, presumably populated by Ghiscari much like the cities of Slaver's Bay, but little is known of it, and no major characters have ventured there.

===Ibben===
Ibben is an island nation in the Shivering Sea often referred to as "Ib". Its major port and capital is the Port of Ibben. The Ibbenese are a hairy race of people who often wear sealskins and favor axes and shaggy brown shields in battle. They populate the island of Ibben as well as colonies on the eastern continent. The Ibbenese are predominantly whalers, sailing fat-bellied whaling ships covered in black tar. They chew blubber and use whale oil to light their lamps. Their trading range extends to the Iron Islands in Westeros.

===Lhazar===
Lhazar is a land to the south of the Dothraki Sea inhabited by the Lhazareen, a peaceful people with bronze skin, flat faces, and almond eyes. They are predominantly shepherds, called the Lamb Men by the Dothraki, who frequently prey on them. They worship a god called the Great Shepherd and believe that all of humanity is part of a single flock.

===Qarth===
A vastly rich city in the far east, home to warlocks and merchant princes. Situated in a central location, Qarth is a gateway of commerce and culture between the east and west, and the north and south. Brimming with wealth, the city's architecture makes a grand display. It is surrounded by three walls of thirty, forty, and fifty feet in height, respectively engraved with portraits of animals, war, and lovemaking. The city's buildings, are of many different colors, including rose, violet, and umber. Slender towers rise throughout the city and fountains adorn every square.

The Qartheen are a tall and pale people, called the Milk Men by the Dothraki for their complexion. They pride themselves on their sophistication and consider weeping in times of strong emotion to be a mark of civilization. Husbands and wives retain their possessions after marriage, though newlyweds are allowed by law to take one possession from their spouse as their own. Qarth is governed by the Pureborn, descendants of the city's ancient kings and queens, who rule the city from the Hall of a Thousand Thrones. The Pureborn also command the city's defenses: the Civic Guard, which includes camelry, and a great military fleet. There are three principal merchant groups that battle amongst themselves and against the Pureborn for dominance of the city. They are known as the Thirteen, the Ancient Guild of Spicers, and the Tourmaline Brotherhood.

Qarth is most famous for its [[Organizations in A Song of Ice and Fire#The warlocks of Qarth|warlocks]], who are feared and respected throughout the East. Like the [[Organizations in A Song of Ice and Fire#The Alchemists' Guild|Alchemists]] of Westeros, however, the warlocks' power and prestige have waned over the years. Qarth is also home to a guild of assassins known as the [[Organizations in A Song of Ice and Fire#The Sorrowful Men|Sorrowful Men]], who whisper, "I am so sorry," just before they kill their victims.

===The Shadow Lands===
A land to the extreme east, the Shadow Lands reside at the edge of the known world, beside or around Asshai. In the western world, there are many tales about the Shadow Lands, though how much fact they hold is unclear. It is said that petrified dragon eggs come from the Shadow Lands, and that dragons themselves originated there. The Dothraki believe that "ghost grass" covers the land, with stalks that glow in the dark and grow taller than a man on horseback. Natives of this place, called Shadow Men, cover their bodies in tattoos and wear red lacquered wooden masks. They are described as "dour and frightening". Some of them practice bloodmagic, using spells that require blood sacrifices. The area of the Shadow Lands and Asshai are sometimes referred to simply as "the Shadow".

===The Stepstones===
The Stepstones are a chain of islands in the Narrow Sea, to the East of Dorne and the Storm Lands. Once the Stepstones were part of the Arm of Dorne, which connected Westeros to the eastern continent. The [[Westeros#History|First Men]] crossed the Arm of Dorne to begin their invasion of [[Westeros]]. Legends describe the greenseers of the [[Westeros#Westeros#Sentient_species|children of the forest]] using magic to shatter the Arm into an archipelago. Various [[Free_Cities_%28A_Song_of_Ice_and_Fire%29|Free Cities]] engage in almost constant war over possession of the Stepstones. Several times in its history, the Seven Kingdoms has also fought for control of them.

===The Summer Islands===
The Summer Islands are a number of islands in the Summer Sea, to the south of Westeros, that form a single nation. The port of Tall Tree Town serves as its capital. The natives of the islands are a dark-skinned people who speak their own language and often wear capes of brightly colored feathers. Archery is an important cultural skill to the Summer Islanders. Their special bows have a longer range than most others, giving their merchant boats added defense against pirates. During the events of ''A Song of Ice and Fire'', an exile prince of the Summer Islands, Jalabhar Xho, lives in Westeros. For many years he unsuccessfully attempts to convince the kings of the Seven Kingdoms to invade the Summer Islands and install him as their ruler.

===Valyria===
A long-dead city of wonderment, Valyria was once the capital of a great empire called the Valyrian Freehold, but has since fallen to ruin. At its prime, the Valyrian Freehold was an advanced civilization and the dominant military and cultural power of the known world. The city was located on a peninsula of the eastern continent, and is the ancestral home of [[House Targaryen]].

In the early days of Valyria, the mighty Ghiscari Empire tried to stop the city's expansion, fighting five major wars that were each won by the Valyrians. The last battle destroyed the Ghiscari Empire and its capital of Old Ghis. Over the years the Valyrians continued to conquer, building great cities and roadways that all led to Valyria. Many smaller nations, such as the Andals and the Rhoynar, fled west to avoid Valyrian expansion. Valyria took many slaves from its conquered lands and used them to mine deep into the earth. At the height of its power, the Freehold stretched over almost the entire east. Cities built by the Valyrian Freehold include Oros, Mantarys, Tyria, and all of the Free Cites except Braavos.

The Valyrian Freehold was destroyed when some as-yet undescribed "Doom" was visited upon it several hundred years prior to the events of ''A Song of Ice and Fire''. The Doom fragmented the land surrounding the city itself into numerous smaller islands, creating the Smoking Sea between them. The area is now described as "demon-haunted", and most people are afraid to go there, as it is said, "The Doom still rules in Valyria." Though the eight Valyrian Free Cities survived the Doom, as well as the Targaryens who fled to Dragonstone, most of Valyria's culture, language, and craft was lost in the Doom.

Valyria is best remembered for its unique ability to raise dragons and use them as weapons of war. Much of its military strength came from the effectiveness of its dragons on the battlefield. Valyria is also remembered for forging "Valyrian steel", a magical metal used to make weapons of unparalleled quality. Valyrian steel blades are lighter, stronger, and sharper than those of regular steel, and feature distinctive rippled patterns similar to [[Damascus steel]]. The secret of forging such metal was apparently lost with Valyria, making those remaining weapons highly treasured and extremely rare. Most Valyrian steel blades in [[Westeros]] are treasured heirlooms of noble houses, each with its own name and storied history. Ice, the greatsword of [[House Stark]], was one such blade.

===Yi Ti===
Yi Ti is a coastal city on the Jade Sea, southeast of Qarth. The people of Yi Ti are said to be dark skinned and bright-eyed, and some wear "monkey-tail" hats. The jungles of Yi Ti are infested with basilisks. In Westeros, it is considered to be a fabulous city, though very little is known about it. Somewhere beyond the city is thought to lie a "legendary dreaming city" of poets.

Petyr Baelish

2007-04-22T19:08:27Z

Geroldhightower: New page: Lord Petyr Baelish, called "Littlefinger," begins the series as Master of Coin (or treasurer) on the King's Small Council. He is also a master of court intrigue, with his brilliance matche...

Lord Petyr Baelish, called "Littlefinger," begins the series as Master of Coin (or treasurer) on the King's Small Council. He is also a master of court intrigue, with his brilliance matched only by his ambition. He is handsome and meticulously stylish, but also quite short, giving a double meaning to the mocking nickname Edmure Tully bestowed on him. Though a lord, his original holdings are possibly the smallest in all the Seven Kingdoms, situated on the smallest of the Fingers. His grandfather was Braavosi, and took the Titan of Braavos as his symbol. Few are aware of this; Baelish wears a mockingbird as his crest instead.

{{spoiler}}

Petyr was fostered as a ward of Riverrun and raised alongside his social betters, the Tully children - Catelyn, Lysa and Edmure. He fell in love with Catelyn, who in turn loved him as a brother, but no more. When the betrothal between Catelyn and Brandon Stark was announced, Petyr challenged Brandon to a duel for her hand. Brandon won handily, but spared Baelish's life in compliance with Catelyn's pleas. Catelyn did not speak to him afterwards and burned the single letter Petyr sent after Brandon's death.
Lysa Tully, on the other hand, was in love with Petyr. She slipped into his bed one night while he was in a miserable, drunken stupor. The delirious Petyr may have mistaken Lysa for Catelyn, and indeed called her "Catelyn" that night. He has since claimed (at court and in private) to have taken the maidenhood of both Tully sisters. Later, Lysa became pregnant with Petyr's child. When Hoster Tully discovered this, he banished Petyr from his house and had Lysa drink Moon Tea to abort the pregnancy.
Baelish's wizardry with finances raised him to the position of Master of Coin, although Lysa helped him get his first job at court by mentioning his skills to her husband Jon Arryn. His influence furnished him with many allies and contacts, including the City Guard of King's Landing. With these resources as a starting point, Baelish used a series of lies and double-crosses to achieve a meteoric rise to political power.
Baelish masterminded the assassination of Jon Arryn and persuaded Lysa to send a secret letter blaming the Lannisters, which drew the Starks to court. Baelish framed Tyrion Lannister, the queen's brother, for Jon Arryn's murder while simultaneously double-crossing Eddard Stark for Queen Cersei. Petyr also kept the hedge knight Kettleblack brothers on his payroll and planted them as agents on both sides of the power struggle between Cersei and Tyrion. This caused political turmoil, a condition in which Petyr thrives.
For recruiting House Tyrell to the Lannister's side, Petyr received Harrenhal, the largest castle in the realm, and nominal authority over the war-torn Riverlands. This technically made Baelish a high lord. His new status made him a fit suitor for the widowed Lysa Arryn, who still loved him. While he claimed to the Lannisters that he suited her for their cause, Petyr was already conspiring with her against them. He married Lysa and gained influence over the Vale of Arryn, making him a nominal high lord twice over.
During this time, Petyr met Sansa Stark, whom he thought strongly resembled her mother Catelyn. While in the Eyrie, he also worked in concert with Olenna Tyrell to poison King Joffrey (Though he later told the Lannisters of Olenna's plan to marry Sansa to the Tyrell heir) at his wedding to Margaery Tyrell, pinning that murder on Tyrion as well. He used the ensuing chaos to smuggle Sansa from the city and eventually brought her to court in the Eyrie in the guise of his bastard daughter. Catelyn Stark had been killed by this time, and Baelish began to grow enamored by Sansa's beauty. With Catelyn presumed dead, Petyr's affections seem to have transferred over to Sansa. When Lysa's mental instability grew dangerous after witnessing Petyr kiss Sansa, he killed Lysa (this time pinning the blame on Lysa's singer Marillion) and claimed to have only ever loved Catelyn.
With Lysa dead, Petyr named himself Lord Protector of the Vale, with Robert Arryn as his ward. The most powerful lords of the Vale joined together to demand that Petyr relinquish Robert. Lyn Corbray drew his sword during the parley (it is hinted that he was paid to do so by Petyr). This breach of etiquette gave Petyr the leverage to demand a trial period on his wardship over Robert. Petyr confided in Sansa his plans to use this time to eliminate the lords who stood in his path. He also revealed his plans to help Sansa regain the North and marry her to the Arryn heir, Harrold Hardyng.

Jaquen h'ghar

2007-04-22T18:54:28Z

Geroldhightower: Replacing page with 'double entry'

double entry

Jaquen h'ghar

2007-04-22T18:53:12Z

Geroldhightower: New page: Jaqen H'ghar is one of many criminals from King's Landing taken by Yoren to join the Night's Watch. He was one of three prisoners found in the infamous "black cells", the dungeons rese...

Jaqen H'ghar is one of many criminals from King's Landing taken by Yoren to join the [[Night's Watch]]. He was one of three prisoners found in the infamous "black cells", the dungeons reserved for only the worst criminals. Jaqen distinguishes himself from the other criminals through his sly demeanor and the mysteriousness of his crimes. He is [[Free Cities (ASOIAF)#Lorath|Lorathi]], and wears long hair with one side colored white and the other red.

{{spoiler}}

"Jaqen H'ghar" is actually the assumed identity of a [[Free Cities (ASOIAF)#The Guild of the Faceless Men|Faceless Man]] of [[Free Cities (ASOIAF)#Braavos|Braavos]], a member of a religious order that serves the various gods of death kept by all cultures. While Faceless Men are shown to sometimes act in the capacity of clergymen, providing mercy for those seeking death in Braavos, Jaqen is an assassin of high skill. In fact, the Faceless Men are the most feared, and costly, assassins known in Westeros.

Jaqen met Arya Stark while being escorted to the Wall. When Amory Lorch attacked the company, Arya saved him and his two fellow prisoners from a fire. At [[Westeros#Harrenhal|Harrenhal]], Jaqen found her again and told her to select three people for him to kill, to repay the deaths she stole from the "Red God". Arya used him to eliminate two of her enemies at Harrenhal, but he pitilessly rejected her request for aid in any other way. By threatening to select Jaqen himself as her third choice, Arya ultimately forced him to help free the Northmen imprisoned at Harrenhal.

Once his debt was filled, Jaqen prepared to take his leave, but first gave Arya an old iron coin and instructed her to give it to any man of Braavos saying the words "''valar morghulis''" should she ever need more help. Then he announced that "Jaqen H'ghar" must die, and passed a hand over his face. His entire face magically reshaped into that of a hook-nosed man with a gold tooth.

A man with Jaqen's new face next appeared in Oldtown calling himself "the Alchemist". He convinced the dim-witted novice Pate to steal a master key that could open any locks within the [[Westeros#Citadel|Citadel]]. Pate received payment for the key, but collapsed immediately thereafter, apparently dying. When [[Characters from A Song of Ice and Fire#Samwell Tarly|Samwell Tarly]] later met Pate at the Citadel, Pate exhibited mannerisms out of character for himself, suggesting that the Alchemist had taken Pate's identity.

Faith

2007-04-22T18:35:28Z

Geroldhightower:

The Faith of the Seven was brought to Westeros by the Andals. It holds tremendous power in the South, where it is embedded into the laws and customs of the land. Knighthood as well is based on the Faith and its religious mores. It maintains a small presence in the North, where the Old Gods still live in the minds of the people.

The number seven is quite prominent in the Faith. It holds that there are seven hells and seven gods. In the naming of a child, seven oils are used to anoint the infant. The Great Sept of Baelor has seven crystal towers. They hold the custom of a trial of seven, wherein seven champions each for the accuser and the accused, fight to the death. They hold seven constellations in the sky as sacred. As punishment, one of the faithful would serve as a begging brother for seven years. Even grace is taught to have seven aspects.

The Faith has a great many moral teachings. It frowns on gambling, preaches against bastardy, and curses as criminal things like incest and kinslaying. Its central book of teachings is titled 'The Seven-Pointed Star.'

The Seven Gods are said to be seven parts or faces of one God by Septons and other learned members of society. The Seven are taught to the Commoners and all children as the Maid, the Mother, the Crone, the Father, the Warrior, the Smith, and the Stranger.

Each identity is attributed to certain aspects of the human condition. The Maid represents innocence and virtue, and is prayed to usually by unwed maidens, mostly. The Mother represents motherhood and nurturing, and is prayed to by all women of childbearing capacity, and by those seeking divine compassion. The Crone represents wisdom, and is prayed to for guidance. The male representatives of this simple pantheon are geared towards the occupations of men. The Father is prayed to for vengeance and justice. The Warrior is the patron saint of footmen, knights and commanders all, and his divine influence on the field of battle is more often than not sought by those on both sides of the field. The Smith represents all the crafts and trials of men, whether farming, smithing, or construction; anything done by hand is usually done after a quick prayer to him. The Stranger represents the unkown, but especially death. Those who find themselves ostracized by society often find solace in praying to this entity, easily identifying with the divine 'outcast.'

The Hierarchy of the Faith is as elaborate in structure but simplistic in practice as its practice. A High Septon oversees the organization, which trains and places Septons and Septas throughout the land. Brown brothers travel between the villages to keep the smallfolk faithful, while Begging Brothers walk the city streets to maintain a presence there. Silent Sisters tend the dead in the name of the Stranger, and help maintain the larger septs.

The Faith worships in Septs and Septries built or cobbled together throughout the land of Westeros. The Great Sept of Baelor, located in King's Landing, is the most-visited in the series, and home to the High Septon. It is lavishly decorated, with huge statues of each of the Seven, and it is girdled by seven towers. The Starry Sept, built from black marble, is located in Oldtown. It was the seat of the High Septon until Aegon the Conqueror. The Sailor's Sept, the Lord's Sept, the Seven Shrines are also located in Oldtown. Most castles have a Sept built in, and most villages have at least a septry. Representations of the Seven range from the beautiful statues of the Great Sept of Baelor to wooden panels in poor villages.

Faith

2007-04-22T18:35:00Z

Geroldhightower: New page: The Faith of the Seven was brought to Westeros by the Andals.3 It holds tremendous power in the South, where it is embedded into the laws and customs of the land. Knighthood as ...

The Faith of the Seven was brought to Westeros by the Andals.3 It holds tremendous power in the South, where it is embedded into the laws and customs of the land. Knighthood as well is based on the Faith and its religious mores. It maintains a small presence in the North, where the Old Gods still live in the minds of the people.

The number seven is quite prominent in the Faith. It holds that there are seven hells and seven gods. In the naming of a child, seven oils are used to anoint the infant. The Great Sept of Baelor has seven crystal towers. They hold the custom of a trial of seven, wherein seven champions each for the accuser and the accused, fight to the death. They hold seven constellations in the sky as sacred. As punishment, one of the faithful would serve as a begging brother for seven years. Even grace is taught to have seven aspects.

The Faith has a great many moral teachings. It frowns on gambling, preaches against bastardy, and curses as criminal things like incest and kinslaying. Its central book of teachings is titled 'The Seven-Pointed Star.'

The Seven Gods are said to be seven parts or faces of one God by Septons and other learned members of society. The Seven are taught to the Commoners and all children as the Maid, the Mother, the Crone, the Father, the Warrior, the Smith, and the Stranger.

Each identity is attributed to certain aspects of the human condition. The Maid represents innocence and virtue, and is prayed to usually by unwed maidens, mostly. The Mother represents motherhood and nurturing, and is prayed to by all women of childbearing capacity, and by those seeking divine compassion. The Crone represents wisdom, and is prayed to for guidance. The male representatives of this simple pantheon are geared towards the occupations of men. The Father is prayed to for vengeance and justice. The Warrior is the patron saint of footmen, knights and commanders all, and his divine influence on the field of battle is more often than not sought by those on both sides of the field. The Smith represents all the crafts and trials of men, whether farming, smithing, or construction; anything done by hand is usually done after a quick prayer to him. The Stranger represents the unkown, but especially death. Those who find themselves ostracized by society often find solace in praying to this entity, easily identifying with the divine 'outcast.'

The Hierarchy of the Faith is as elaborate in structure but simplistic in practice as its practice. A High Septon oversees the organization, which trains and places Septons and Septas throughout the land. Brown brothers travel between the villages to keep the smallfolk faithful, while Begging Brothers walk the city streets to maintain a presence there. Silent Sisters tend the dead in the name of the Stranger, and help maintain the larger septs.

The Faith worships in Septs and Septries built or cobbled together throughout the land of Westeros. The Great Sept of Baelor, located in King's Landing, is the most-visited in the series, and home to the High Septon. It is lavishly decorated, with huge statues of each of the Seven, and it is girdled by seven towers. The Starry Sept, built from black marble, is located in Oldtown. It was the seat of the High Septon until Aegon the Conqueror. The Sailor's Sept, the Lord's Sept, the Seven Shrines are also located in Oldtown. Most castles have a Sept built in, and most villages have at least a septry. Representations of the Seven range from the beautiful statues of the Great Sept of Baelor to wooden panels in poor villages.

King's Landing

2007-04-22T18:28:21Z

Geroldhightower: New page: King's Landing is the capital of Westeros and the Seven Kingdoms. It is situated on the Blackwater river on the spot where Aegon the Conqueror landed in Westeros to begin his conquest....

King's Landing is the capital of Westeros and the Seven Kingdoms. It is situated on the Blackwater river on the spot where [[Aegon the Conqueror]] landed in Westeros to begin his conquest. The main city is surrounded by a wall, manned by a city watch known as the Gold Cloaks. Within the walls, the city's natural landscape is dominated by three hills, named after Aegon and his two sisters. Poorer smallfolk build shanty settlements outside the city. King's Landing is extremely populous, but rather unsightly and dirty compared to other cities. The stench of the city's waste can be smelled far beyond its walls.
The royal castle, called the Red Keep, sits on Aegon's Hill. The Keep holds the Iron Throne, the seat of the monarch. Aegon commissioned the throne's construction from the swords of his defeated enemies. According to legend, he kept the blades sharp because he believed that no ruler should ever sit comfortably. Centuries later, kings still cut themselves on the throne.
The city also holds the Great Sept of Baelor, where the Most Devout convene with the High Septon. It is the holiest sept of the Seven.
The slums of King's Landing are called Flea Bottom, where residents are so poor they regularly subsist on "bowls of brown", a mystery stew that can include the meat of rats and murder victims.
King's Landing has an estimated population of more than 500,000, as stated by Tyrion when he meets Oberyn Martell on his arrival to King's Landing. George R. R. Martin has also stated that the city is larger than Medieval London or Paris but smaller than Medieval Constantinople or Ancient Rome (each had a population of about 1,000,000).

A Wiki of Ice and Fire talk:Community Portal

2007-04-22T16:13:49Z

Geroldhightower: /* Spoler tag */

== Spoiler tag ==

On Wikipedia there is the spoiler tag: <nowiki>{{spoiler}}</nowiki>. It doesn't work here (yet). What must be done to make it work?

A Wiki of Ice and Fire talk:Community Portal

2007-04-22T16:13:32Z

Geroldhightower: New page: == Spoler tag == On Wikipedia there is the spoiler tag: <nowiki>{{spoiler}}</nowiki>. It doesn't work here (yet). What must be done to make it work?

== Spoler tag ==

On Wikipedia there is the spoiler tag: <nowiki>{{spoiler}}</nowiki>. It doesn't work here (yet). What must be done to make it work?

Winterfell

2007-04-22T15:28:12Z

Geroldhightower:

Winterfell is a castle in the North of Westeros. It is the ancestral home and seat of power of House Stark, which has ruled the North for millenia. Built on top of a hot spring, it uses the water from that spring for heating, making it more comfortable than other castles during the harsh northern winter. Under the castle there is a crypt where the Starks bury their dead.

{{spoiler}}

The castle was sacked and burned down by Ramsay Snow (later legitimised son of Roose Bolton in the War of the Five Kings. The crypts remain intact.

Free folk

2007-04-22T15:20:56Z

Geroldhightower: /* Known Wildlings */

A wildling is, by definition, any person that lives North of the Wall, although they refer to themselves as the Free Folk. These people are viewed as barbarians by those south of the Wall, people viewed by the wildlings as weak and soft. There are tens, possibly hundreds of thousands of wildlings split into hundreds of tribes, clans, villages and raiding parties. Some, such as the Thenn, live in tightly knit communities while others are seminomadic loners, held down only by their own needs. While there is often conflict between the wildlings and the "crows", the two groups are not beyond some form of cooperation, as lost Brothers have been aided by wildlings and the Watch is not beyond taking wildling children and raising them to be Brothers of the Watch. In recent times, there has been a lot of activity north of the wall as a wildling-born deserter of the Brotherhood, Mance Rayder, gathers wildling forces around him.

====Known Wildlings====
{{spoiler}}
*Mance Rayder, known as the King-Beyond-the-Wall. Captured after the Battle of Castle Black and later burned at the stake by Stannis Baratheon.
*Craster, holds a keep near the Wall and gives begrudging aid to rangers. Murdered along with Lord Commander Jeor Mormont by rangers after the battle on The Fist of First Men.
*Dalla, wife of Mance Rayder. Died in childbirth after the Battle of Castle Black.
*Harma, called "Dogshead", an infamous female raider andcynophobe. Killed during the Battle of Castle Black.
*The Lord of Bones, mocked by rangers (and some wildlings) as "Rattleshirt", a sadistic raider who wears armor made of bone. Captured after the Battle of Castle Black.
*Orell, a raider and skinchanger. He was killed by Jon Snow while his mind inhabited an eagle. A part of his consciousness became permanently trapped in the eagle, causing it to hate Jon Snow.
*Osha, wildling woman taken captive by forces of House Stark south of the Wall. Spared execution in exchange for service, she became a guardian and companion to Rickon Stark.
*Styr, the Magnar of Thenn, chieftain of the Thenns, a warlike wildling tribe. Killed during the Battle of Castle Black.
*Tormund, known as "Giant's Bane", among other things, a raider prone to tall tales.
*Val, sister of Dalla. Imprisoned after the Battle of Castle Black.
*Varamyr "Sixskins", a diminutive skinchanger who is accompanied by three wolves, a snowbear and a shadowcat. After Orell's death, Varamyr took control of his eagle and used it to scout during the battle of Castle Black. Melisandre killed the eagle while Varamyr inhabited it, causing him to go mad.
*Ygritte, red-haired lover to Jon Snow. Killed in the Battle of Castle Black.

Free folk

2007-04-22T15:16:28Z

Geroldhightower: copied from wikipedia

A wildling is, by definition, any person that lives North of the Wall, although they refer to themselves as the Free Folk. These people are viewed as barbarians by those south of the Wall, people viewed by the wildlings as weak and soft. There are tens, possibly hundreds of thousands of wildlings split into hundreds of tribes, clans, villages and raiding parties. Some, such as the Thenn, live in tightly knit communities while others are seminomadic loners, held down only by their own needs. While there is often conflict between the wildlings and the "crows", the two groups are not beyond some form of cooperation, as lost Brothers have been aided by wildlings and the Watch is not beyond taking wildling children and raising them to be Brothers of the Watch. In recent times, there has been a lot of activity north of the wall as a wildling-born deserter of the Brotherhood, Mance Rayder, gathers wildling forces around him.

====Known Wildlings====
{{spoiler}}
*[[Characters from A Song of Ice and Fire#Mance Rayder|Mance Rayder]], known as the King-Beyond-the-Wall. Captured after the [[Wars in A Song of Ice and Fire#The Battles of Castle Black and The Gap|Battle of Castle Black]] and later burned at the stake by [[House Baratheon#Stannis|Stannis Baratheon]].
*Craster, holds a keep near the Wall and gives begrudging aid to rangers. Murdered along with Lord Commander Jeor Mormont by rangers after the battle on [[Wars in A Song of Ice and Fire#The Half-Hand and the Battle of the Fist of First Men|The Fist of First Men]].
*Dalla, wife of Mance Rayder. Died in childbirth after the Battle of Castle Black.
*Harma, called "Dogshead", an infamous female raider and [[-phob-#Zoophobias|cynophobe]]. Killed during the Battle of Castle Black.
*The Lord of Bones, mocked by rangers (and some wildlings) as "Rattleshirt", a sadistic raider who wears armor made of bone. Captured after the Battle of Castle Black.
*Orell, a raider and skinchanger. He was killed by Jon Snow while his mind inhabited an eagle. A part of his consciousness became permanently trapped in the eagle, causing it to hate Jon Snow.
*Osha, wildling woman taken captive by forces of [[House Stark]] south of the Wall. Spared execution in exchange for service, she became a guardian and companion to [[House Stark#Rickon|Rickon Stark]].
*Styr, the Magnar of Thenn, chieftain of the Thenns, a warlike wildling tribe. Killed during the Battle of Castle Black.
*Tormund, known as "Giant's Bane", among other things, a raider prone to tall tales.
*Val, sister of Dalla. Imprisoned after the Battle of Castle Black.
*Varamyr "Sixskins", a diminutive skinchanger who is accompanied by three wolves, a snowbear and a shadowcat. After Orell's death, Varamyr took control of his eagle and used it to scout during the battle of Castle Black. [[Characters from A Song of Ice and Fire#Melisandre|Melisandre]] killed the eagle while Varamyr inhabited it, causing him to go mad.
*Ygritte, red-haired lover to Jon Snow. Killed in the Battle of Castle Black.

Winterfell

2007-04-22T15:06:20Z

Geroldhightower: New page: Winterfell is a castle in the North of Westeros. It is the ancestral home and seat of power of House Stark, which has ruled the North for millenia. Built on top of a hot spring, it uses th...

Winterfell is a castle in the North of Westeros. It is the ancestral home and seat of power of House Stark, which has ruled the North for millenia. Built on top of a hot spring, it uses the water from that spring for heating, making it more comfortable than other castles during the harsh northern winter. Under the castle there is a crypt where the Starks bury their dead.

The castle was sacked and burned down by Ramsay Snow (later legitimised son of Roose Bolton in the War of the Five Kings. The crypts remain intact.