Difference between revisions of "Aegon Targaryen (son of Rhaegar)"

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| Place_of_Birth = [[King's Landing]]  
 
| Place_of_Birth = [[King's Landing]]  
 
| Date_of_Birth  = {{Date|282}}
 
| Date_of_Birth  = {{Date|282}}
| Place_of_Death =
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| Place_of_Death = [[King's Landing]]
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| Date_of_Death  = {{Date|283}} (Contested by Aegon pretender)
 
| Books          = [[A Game of Thrones]] (Mentioned)<br>[[A Clash of Kings]] (Mentioned)<br>[[A Storm of Swords]] (Mentioned)<br>[[A Feast for Crows]] (Mentioned)<br>[[A Dance with Dragons]] (Appears)
 
| Books          = [[A Game of Thrones]] (Mentioned)<br>[[A Clash of Kings]] (Mentioned)<br>[[A Storm of Swords]] (Mentioned)<br>[[A Feast for Crows]] (Mentioned)<br>[[A Dance with Dragons]] (Appears)
 
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Revision as of 22:03, 9 December 2012

House Targaryen crest.PNG
Aegon Targaryen
House Targaryen crest.PNG
Elias last moments.jpg
Princess Elia Martell's last moments - by Achen089 ©. She holds an infant who dies with her. Either Aegon Targaryen or the Pisswater prince

Alias Young Griff (possible)
Allegiance House Targaryen
Culture Valyrian
Born 282 AC
King's Landing
Died 283 AC (Contested by Aegon pretender)
King's Landing
Books

Aegon Targaryen was the second child and only son of Prince Rhaegar Targaryen and Elia Martell. Had he ascended to the throne he would have ruled as Aegon VI.

Character and Appearance

According to semi-canon sources Aegon looks like a Targaryen.[1] As an infant, Aegon had "fair hair". [2]

The older Aegon is described as a lithe and well-made youth, with a lanky build. Tyrion Lannister initially estimated him to be "fifteen" or "sixteen" years-old. [3] According to Haldon, Aegon is as tall as Jon Connington. [3] Aegon has a lanky build that suggests that he has yet to reach his full growth. Tyrion noted that his eyes seem to be dark blue. But look black by lamplight, and purple in the light of dusk. His eyelashes are long, seemingly feminine. [4] He is exceptionally handsome and has the Targaryen traits of silver hair and purple eyes, both features which are also present in his aunt Daenerys. Jon Connington notes that Aegon's eyes were a lighter shade of purple to those of Rhaegar. He dyes his hair blue to conceal his identity.[5] [6]

Aegon is well educated and intelligent, speaking several languages and well versed in history. He speaks the Common Tongue as a native speaker. He is fluent in High Valyrian, in the Bastard Valyrian dialects of Pentos, Tyrosh, Myr, and Lys, and in Trade Talk. He is a novice at speaking the dialect of Volantis, only familiar with a few of its words. The dialect of Meereen, whose terms derive from both Valyrian and Ghiscari, gives him trouble. [4] He has some training in mathematics. He has a decent knowledge of sums and a limited understanding of geometry. He also has been trained in songs. Tyrion notes that Aegon is more learned than "half the lords in Westeros". [4]

History

Birth

A comet was seen above King's Landing on the night Aegon was conceived - art by Rene Aigner ©

A comet was seen above King's Landing on the night Aegon was conceived, which led his father Rhaegar Targaryen to believe that he was the Prince that was Promised. The comet was seen as "the bleeding star" of the prophecy. Maester Aemon was aware of Rhaegar's beliefs, though it is unclear if he shared them. Aemon later came to doubt the wisdom of looking for a prince, rather than a princess. He realized there was a translation error, the term translated was fluid in terms of gender. Connected to the term for dragons, who are neither male nor female. [7]

According to the recollections of Jon Connington, Elia Martell was always frail and sickly. Giving birth to her daughter Rhaenys had left her bedridden for half a year. Giving birth to Aegon had almost killed her. The maesters had told Rhaegar that Elia would bear no more children. [6]

Sack of King's Landing

Aegon was just an infant during Robert's Rebellion.[8] [9] Following the Battle of the Trident, Aerys II Targaryen decided to send Queen Rhaella and Viserys to Dragonstone. The original plan was for Elia to join them. But Aerys II instead thought of using her as a hostage against Dorne. He blamed the lost battle of the Trident on the supposed treason of Lewyn Martell. He chose to keep Elia and Aegon by his side, in his view ensuring the continued loyalty of Dorne. [10] After the death of Rhaegar, Pycelle was convinced that the war was effectively over. In his view, House Targaryen could no longer offer a proper king to the realm. Aerys II was "mad", Viserys "too young", and Aegon still "a babe at the breast". Pycelle worked to convince Aerys II to open the gates of King's Landing to the Lannister forces. Pycelle secretly prayed and hope that his actions would help Tywin Lannister rise to the throne. [11]

During the Sack of King's Landing, Jaime Lannister killed Aerys in the throne room of the Red Keep. Elys Westerling, Roland Crakehall, and other Lannister knights then burst in the room. At approximately the same, other Lannister soldiers fought Targaryen loyalists in the steps and armory of the Red Keep, Gregor Clegane and Amory Lorch were scaling the walls of Maegor's Holdfast, and Eddard Stark was leading the men of the North through the city gates. Lord Crakehall asked Jaime if they should proclaim a new king. Left unsaid was a clear implication, he was asking whether Jaime would proclaim Tywin Lannister, Robert Baratheon, or a member of House Targaryen. Jaime remembered that Aegon and his mother were in Maegor's Holdfast, while Viserys was in Dragonstone. [12]

Jaime briefly toyed with the idea of proclaiming a new Targaryen King. Tywin would gain control, as Hand of the King, the "wolves" of the North would howl in frustration, Robert would choke with rage. Jaime found this option tempting. Until he glanced at the corpse of Aerys II. Recalling that both Aegon and Viserys had inherited the blood of Aerys, Jaime decided against supporting either one of them. He told Crakehall to proclaim whoever the man wanted. Jaime seated himself on the Iron Throne, simply waiting to see who would arrive to claim the throne and the kingdom. He was still sitting there when Eddard entered the throne room. [12]

Viserys often told stories to his sister Daenerys. One of these stories involved the Sack of King's Landing by the "Usurper's dogs", Tywin Lannister and Eddard Stark. In this story, Elia Martell was pleading for mercy as Aegon was ripped from her breast and murdered before her eyes. Aegon was "Rhaegar's heir". [13] Daenerys later recalled an additional detail, men had dashed the head of Aegon against a wall. [14] Eddard Stark recalls that "Lord Tywin's soldiers" had torn Aegon from his mother's breast and dashed his head against a wall. They were also said to have dragged Rhaenys from beneath her bed, putting her to the sword.[15] Eddard Stark had heard rumors that it was Gregor Clegane who dashed the skull of infant Aegon against a wall. It was whispered that afterward Gregor had raped Elia Martell, and then put her to the sword. At the time Gregor was only "seventeen". Nobody dared to repeat these rumors when Gregor himself could be listening. [9] According to Tyrion Lannister, the responsibility of Gregor for the murders of Elia and Aegon was "common knowledge" in Casterly Rock. The tale went that for the duration of Gregor's rape of Elia, his hands were still covered in the blood and brains of Aegon. [16] A wounded Gregor later narrated a brief account of the events to Oberyn Martell, while killing him. He had first killed Aegon, the "screaming whelp". Then came the rape of Elia; Clegane claimed to have smashed her head with his bare hands, the same method Gregor used to finish off Oberyn. [17]

Tywin Lannister later narrated his view of the events to his son Tyrion. Rhaenys was hiding under Rhaegar's bed, while Elia and Aegon were in the nursery, just a floor below the location of Rhaenys. Tywin was aware that he had kept the Westerlands from joining Robert's cause for most of the Rebellion. They had only joined said cause at the last stage of the war, and their loyalty would be suspected. He needed a way to demonstrate loyalty to Robert, a way to convince people that the Lannisters had severed all ties to House Targaryen. In addition, Eddard Stark was also heading toward's King's Landing, leading the remnants of Robert's army south from the Trident. Instead of the Lannister and Stark forces meeting as allies, there was still a chance for the two armies to clash. Tywin also feared that his elder son Jaime might do something stupid or that Aerys would kill Jaime for no more reason than sheer spite [18].

Tywin decided to have his troops eliminate Rhaegar's children. In a single move, the Lannisters would have proven their commitment to the Rebellion and secured the throne for Robert by eliminating rival claimants for the throne. Tywin himself was somewhat surprised by the result of his commands. The murders were performed "too brutally" for his needs; he insisted that Elia didn't have to die, it happened because he didn't specify she should be spared. He had not grasped yet that Gregor is bestial, not just "terrible in battle". Gregor chose himself the manner of Aegon's death. He had not received any instructions concerning Elia. He was improvising when he raped and killed her. Amory Lorch was the man who located Rhaenys, dragging her from under the bed. The girl kicked him and would not stop screaming. Lorch killed her with about fifty sword thrusts. Tywin himself, after the fact, pointed out a more logical way to perform the deed. A few sweet words to calm the girl, a soft pillow to suffocate her. The blood was unnecessary in his view. [18] Oberyn Martell had another view on Tywin's motives. Elia was once supposed to marry Jaime Lannister, based on an agreement between her mother and Joanna Lannister. Following the death of Joanna, Tywin broke the agreement, though he offered Tyrion as a a prospective bridegroom instead of Jaime, taunting the Martells. He had also informed them that Cersei Lannister was meant for Rhaegar, not for Oberyn. When Elia married Rhaegar, the Martells had ruined Tywin's plans. Tywin was "not a man to forget such slights". Oberyn believed that the murder of Elia was decided by Tywin, to teach Elia the same lesson that Houses Reyne and Tarbeck had learned. [17]

Eddard Stark recalled how Tywin Lannister presented Robert Baratheon with the corpses of Elia, Aegon, and Rhaenys. His "token of fealty". [15] Tywin had laid the bodies beneath the Iron Throne, wrapped in the crimson cloaks of his house guard. A clever choice, as the blood was less obvious against the red cloth. Rhaenys had been barefoot, dressed in a bed gown. The condition of the boy horrified Eddard. [19] The skull was a "red ruin", even Robert could not stand its sight. Robert had turned away from the sight. [8] Kevan Lannister was also present during this scene. He was able to recognize Rhaenys. But recalls that nobody could recognize Aegon. All that remained of the boy was a faceless horror of bone, brain, and gore. A few hanks of fair hair. Nobody could stand looking at the body for long. Tywin stated that this was Aegon and everyone else took him at his word. Seventeen years later, Kevan was no longer certain of Tywin's word on the matter.[2]

Reactions to the death

  • Robert Baratheon was actually relieved and glad that the royal children were killed. Robert viewed himself as a hero, and was reluctant to kill children, but he knew Rhaegar's children had to die if his throne was ever to be secure. Tywin painted himself as the villain, allowing Robert to keep his hands clean, the reason Robert refused to punish any of the Lannisters for the brutal act.[18]
  • Tywin Lannister knew this act would prove to Robert that House Lannister had forsaken the dragon forever. Years later, Tyrion came to question the wisdom of the act. Robert Baratheon would have bloodied his own hands, soiling his own reputation. Instead the Lannisters had damaged their own reputation, gaining long-term enemies in the process. [18]
  • Eddard Stark called the act murder, Robert just called it war. Eddard protested that Aegon and Rhaenys were "no more than babes". Robert replied that they were not babes, only dragonspawn. The two men quarreled over the matter, Jon Arryn unable to calm them. Eddard had ridden out of King's Landing in a cold rage, heading south to fight the last battles of the war on his own. They would only be reconciled by their shared grief over the death of Lyanna.[15]
  • Thoros of Myr claims to have personally seen the corpses of Aegon and Rhaenys, as they were placed before the Iron Throne. In his view, House Clegane was "built upon dead children" and their arms should display "two bloody infants". [20]
  • Arianne Martell recalled Robert as a monster who climbed onto his throne over the corpses of children, directly connecting his rise to the murders of Aegon and Rhaenys. Robert is not held in high regard in Dorne.[21]
  • Years following the murders, Doran Martell still mourns for the victims. According to Varys, the consequent hatred of Doran for House Lannister is well known.[16] Doran himself claims to have worked at the downfall of Tywin Lannister for all these years. Ever since he learned what had happended to Elia, Aegon, and Rhaenys. [22]
  • Oberyn Martell, in his words, hungered for justice for sixteen years. Justice for Elia and her children. Certain that Gregor was only following orders. [23] Oberyn Martell wanted vengeance on the man who gave the orders, not just the man who performed the deed. [24]
  • Nymeria Sand believes that the only fitting payment for the death of Elia's children, would be the death of "Lord Tywin's golden twins". Cersei and Jaime would pay with their lives for the old murders. [25]
  • Daenerys Targaryen can't see a difference between Houses Lannister and Stark. She considers Eddard Stark also responsible for the murders of Rhaenys and Aegon, arguing that "the Usurper's dogs" acted as a pack of hounds, hunting children. Which individual hound kills a child doesn't matter, all the dogs are equally guilty. Barristan Selmy disagrees with her, and has tried to explain the distinction between Eddard and Tywin. Daenerys notices a "flicker of disapproval" in his face when she insists on her original opinion. [27]
  • Barristan Selmy himself has been haunted by the idea of the "bloody bodies" of Aegon and Rhaenys. His serious injuries following the Battle of the Trident prevented him from personally examining the corpses. But he wondered for years about the reaction of Robert to the bodies and whether Robert smiled at the bodies. Selmy contemplates that such a smile would motivate him to personally kill Robert and that no army could save him. [28]

Reported survival

Young Griff, who claims to be Prince Aegon

A young man considering himself to be Aegon, explains his apparent survival to Tyrion Lannister. According to his account, the boy killed during the Sack of King's Landing was a Pisswater prince. He had been born at the Pisswater Bend, a street of King's Landing. His father was a tanner, and his mother had died at birth. The tanner sold his boy to Varys for a jug of Arbor gold wine. The man had other sons, but wanted to experience the taste of Arbor gold for once in his life. Varys then arranged the swap between the two infants boys. Elia received the Pisswater prince, Varys took custody of the real Aegon. [29] Tyrion Lannister deduces the rest of the story. When the Pisswater prince was "safely dead", Varys smuggled Aegon across the narrow sea. Varys entrusted the boy to Illyrio Mopatis, who in turn found an adoptive father for Aegon in the person of exiled Lord Jon Connington. Aegon does not comment on Tyrion's deductions. [29]

According to the recollection of Jon Connington, he had to fake his own death "twelve years" before the present. In 288 AL, five years following the Battle of the Bells, Varys had convinced him that the lie would be necessary for the safety of Aegon. Connington had spend the "five years" of his exile as a member of the Golden Company, and had become the right-hand man to Myles Toyne. To fulfill Varys' plan, Connington first had to be discharged from the Company in disgrace. The crafted story went that he been stealing from its war chest. Then rumors reported that Connington drunk himself to death in Lys. In Varys' words, as a gallant exile Connington would be remembered. But few tend to remember thieves, drunks, and cowards. Reputed to be one of the latter, Connington too would be forgotten. [30] Aegon spend most of his life hiding aboard the poleboat Shy Maid. [3] [29] He shared a cabin with his adoptive father. [4]

Aegon has been trained in matters of military tactics by Jon Connington [30], arms by Rolly Duckfield, in the Faith of the Seven by Septa Lemore, and history and languages by Haldon Halfmaester. [3] [5] He was taught to read and write. To study history, law, and poetry. He lived with fisherfolk, worked with his hands, swum in rivers, and mended nets. He learned practical things such as washing his own clothes, fishing, cooking, binding up wounds. He was familiarized with hunger, and the fear of being hunted. His education was intended to teach him that kingship was a duty, not a right. [2]

His claim to the Iron Throne is stronger than that of his aunt Daenerys. [29] [30] According to the relevant succession laws,

"the sons of the first son come before the second son". [31]

Aegon is a son of Rhaegar, who was himself the first son of Aerys II. Placing Aegon higher in the Targaryen succession line than both Viserys (Aerys second son) and Daenerys (the daughter of Aerys). [31] According to Daenerys, Five Kings named "Aegon" have ruled in Westeros. Her nephew would have been the sixth, had he survived infancy. [32] [33]

As yet there is no indication as to whether he has inherited the Targaryen propensity for dragon dreams as Daenerys has. He might have the potential for it, like all those with Targaryen blood, but only some members of this bloodline actually displayed this ability. [34]

Recent Events

A Clash of Kings

One of the visions Daenerys Targaryen sees in the House of the Undying involves Rhaegar, Elia, and Aegon. In this vision, a newborn Aegon nurses from the breast of Elia. The woman is seated in a great wooden bed. Rhaegar decides on the name "Aegon" for his newborn son, as he thinks the name fit for a king. Elia asks whether Rhaegar will make a song for their son. He replies that Aegon already has a song, "the song of ice and fire". Part of his role as "the prince that was promised".

However, Rhaegar then claims that there must be "one more", since "the dragon has three heads". Rhaegar moves to a seat near the window, and picks up a harp. Daenerys listens to the "sweet sadness" of his music as the vision fades away. [35] Daenerys later describes this vision to Jorah Mormont. Jorah helps her confirm the identities of the people in this vision. But points out that if Aegon was the promised prince, the promise was broken with his death. [36] Daenerys notices a pattern in the names Rhaegar chose for his children. They were named after Aegon I Targaryen and his sisters. There was a daughter named after the original Rhaenys Targaryen, but none named after Visenya. She wonders if that was the missing third head of the dragon. Neither Daenerys, nor Jorah have heard of the term "song of ice and fire". They are unable to determine its meaning. [36]

A Dance with Dragons

Griff and Young Griff - by Pojypojy ©

While in Meereen, Daenerys has mused about Aegon who would have been the sixth to sit on the Iron Throne. She is yet unaware that he is alive. [33] She thought to herself:

"If he had lived, I might have married him. Aegon would have been closer to my age than Viserys". [33]

Aegon to better conceal his identity Aegon dyes his silver Targaryen hair blue, which also makes his violet eyes appear blue. He uses the false story that his mother was a Tyroshi who dyed her hair blue, and he does it to honor her memory. [3] [4] [5]

In 300 AC, Illyrio Mopatis and Tyrion Lannister jointly depart Pentos, heading towards the river Rhoyne. On the journey Illyrio explains the purpose of Tyrion's mission. He and "Griff" (Jon Connington) are to head towards Volantis. Waiting for the expected arrival of Daenerys Targaryen in that city, with fresh forces and more ships for her cause. Based on Illyrio's information, Daenerys has conquered Astapor, made Yunkai bend the knee, and sacked Meereen. He estimates that Daenerys is heading westwards. Either by land to Mantarys or by sea to Volantis. [37] Tyrion wants more information on Griff, who Illyrio supposedly trusts as a brother. Illyrio simply points that unlike most sellswords, Griff is a dotting father. He also mentions that his boy, "Young Griff" (Aegon) is a noble lad. [37]

In arms practice with Rolly Duckfield, the student surpasses the master. Aegon manages to knock Rolly into a horse trough. An embarrassed Rolly claims that he fell on purpose to make Aegon laugh. Haldon laughs at him.[3] Three days following this incident, Illyrio and Tyrion end their joined journey when they meet Haldon and Rolly. Illyrio specifically asks them for information on Young Griff. Haldon replies that Young Griff is now taller, as tall as the elder Griff. He then narrates about the incident during arms practice. [3]

Illyrio has brought a gift for Young Grief, candied ginger. Pointing that the boy was always fond of it. An "oddly sad" Illyrio wants to prepare a farewell feast for the lad and offers to join them as far as Ghoyan Drohe. Haldon points out that there is no time for feasts. Griff is in a hurry to move downriver. There is information that the Dothraki khalasars of Motho and Zekko are crossing the Forest of Qohor, heading towards the Rhoyne. Both khals are fleeing from the much larger khalasar of Pono, who might also be heading for the Rhoyne. Griff wants to avoid any encounter with the Dothraki. [3]

Tyrion joins Haldon and Rolly for the trip back to their boat. Illyrio leaves a message for Young Griff. Expressing his regret that he won't be present for the boy's wedding. But swears to rejoin the boy in Westeros. His shoulders were slumped, again indicating sadness. [3]

Traveling by horse for a couple of days, the trio of travelers encounter the Shy Maid in the vicinity of Ghoyan Drohe. Young Griff greets "Duck" and Haldon with shouts, while standing on the cabin of the poleboat. Trying to open a conversation, Tyrion points out to Young Griff that blue hair will get him ridiculed in Westeros. Young Griff is taken aback. He claims to dye his hair in memory of his deceased mother, a lady of Tyrosh. [3]

The Shy Maid continues traveling down the Rhoyne towards Volantis. Tyrion watches Young Griff enjoying his breakfast, bacon. All the while contemplating the overall appearance of the boy. Following breakfast, Duck invites Young Griff for arms practice. The two practice with swords for this morning, evenly matched. Young Griff lands more blows, Duck fewer but harder ones. Duck tires first, allowing Young Griff the opportunity to start a furious attack. Duck retreats towards the stern. Young Griff uses a shoulder slam to throw his opponent into the river. [4]

A wet Duckfield does not appreciate being teased by Tyrion, throwing the dwarf into the river. Young Griff extends a pole to Tyrion, helping him return aboard the boat. Tyrion uses a cartwheel to spray everyone around him with water. Young Griff is amused and asks where Tyrion learned this trick. Tyrion offers him a false origin story. [4] With arms practice over, Young Griff joins Lemore for a lesson on the mysteries of the Faith of the Seven. [4] During the evening, Young Griff joins Haldon for lessons in languages, geometry, and history. Tyrion joins them in this day's lessons. [4]

With the lesson over, Young Griff helps Yandry with the sails and poles of the boat. Tyrion discusses Young Griff's education with Haldon. He points that such as an extensive education is unusual for "some sellsword's son". Haldon fails to understand what Tyrion is implying about the boy. [4] Hours later, Young Griff hoots in joy when their boat encounters the Old Man of the River, a huge horned turtle. Most members of the crew take this for a good sign, Tyrion privately considers this a wonder. One of the wonders which mark the birth of kings. Already hinting at the real identity of Young Griff. [4]

The Shy Maid continues its way down the Rhoyne, traveling through fog in the vicinity of the Sorrows. Young Griff takes position at the prow of the poleboat, holding a pole. He is ready to use it to push the boat away from potential hazards. Young Griff speculates about the presence of fish in this area of the river, Ysilla warns him against eating any fish taken from these waters. [5]

When discussion turns to "Garin's Curse", another term for greyscale, Ysilla tells a brief story concerning Garin. The men of Volantis and Valyria had hung him in a golden cage, mocking his calls to Mother Rhoyne. Mocking his prayers for their destruction. The river rose and drowned his captors. But the story speaks of restless "lords of fire" who still live beneath the water, their flesh now as stony as their hearts. After listening to the story, Young Griff is not particularly disturbed. Certain that they could face these restless Valyrians and any other Stone men. Lemore warns him that pride is a grievous sin. [5]

When the Shy Maid makes its way through the Sorrows, Young Griff uses his pole to push the boat away from a broken tower. [5] Some time, later, the boy warns of a light ahead of them. His father recognizes the light as coming from the Bridge of Dream. Griff instructs his son to escort Lemore to her cabin and then stay with her. Young Griff stubbornly refuses, denying a need for protection. Claiming that his training to become a knight should be sufficient to protect himself. Griff commands him to back down. The youth curses under his breath. Pointing out angrily that Haldon, Ysilla, and "Hugor" (Tyrion) are not running for cover. When Tyrion joins in trying to convince Young Griff to back down, the youth replies with a scornful "You're a dwarf". Tyrion tries to explain that Young Griff is everything for their mission. His words are interrupted when the Shy Maid seemingly passes below the Bridge of Dream. [5]

With the danger posed by the stone men seemingly over, Young Griff turns his attention back to Tyrion. He grabs the dwarf's arm and demands answers. "Why am I everything?" Tyrion points out that the death of anyone else on board would be mourned. But the death of Young Griff would abort their mission. Young Griff realized that Tyrion has found out about his true identity. Tyrion lists the clues that led him to the deduction that Young Griff is Aegon Targaryen, the boy Tywin Lannister had wrapped in a crimson cloak. A confused Aegon finally learns that "Hugor" is Tyrion Lannister. [5]

Before the encounter between its crew members ends, the Shy Maid approaches the Bridge of Dream for a second time. An unexplained return as they were heading for the opposite direction. Griff commands Haldon to escort Aegon below. Haldon has no time to fulfill his mission. During the second passing of the ship, three stone men from the Bridge boarded the ship. (Tyrion initially sees only two, failing to see the one behind his back). The third stone man lurches forward and reaches for Aegon. The boy freezes in shock with his hand still on the sword hilt, failing to defend himself. Tyrion kicks one of Aegon's legs, making the prince loose his balance and fall. Tyrion then leaps over the fallen body and attacks the stone man with a torch. While the rest of the crew attempts to shield Aegon, the two struggling figures fall into the Rhoyne. [5]

The Shy Maid has reached Selhorys by the time Tyrion regains consciousness. Aegon is in a sullen mood, forced to remain on board for his own safety. The town is under the control of the city of Volantis. Dothraki riders had been located in the vicinity of Selhorys. The triarchs of Volantis had feared an attack and had warships, river galleys, and slave soldiers transferred to the town. The crew members wanted to prevent Aegon from having dangerous encounters in the area. Despite his insistance that he knows how to use a sword. Lemore points out that even the bravest Targaryens did not trust their fate on their swords alone. They kept the Kingsguard by their side. [29]

Lemore herself had changed from septa's robes to secular garb. Pointing to Aegon that he was not alone in having to hide. The prince still seems frustrated. Tyrion challenges him to a game of cyvasse. Tyrion privately assesses the game strategy of Aegon. He feels it is "a young man's formation", bold and foolish. Aegon risks everything for a quick kill. Tyrion starts a conversation, actually fishing Aegon for information. Aegon innocently offers background information on Jon Connington, and then narrates his own origin story. [29]

Tyrion switches the conversation towards the real purpose of their journey. The plan to have Aegon married to his aunt Daenerys. He warns the prince that Daenerys might not be the willing bride that everyone seems to expect. Aegon is shocked, having never considered the idea that she might turn down his marriage offer. Tyrion points out that Daenerys is a proud, strong, and fierce young woman who will not appreciate a relative coming to her with a begging bowl, certainly not one with a stronger claim to the Iron Throne than her own. Aegon angrily denies being a beggar, pointing at his own army: the Golden Company. Tyrion points out that Daenerys has a larger army than his own and owes nothing to Aegon. Aegon protests, trusting in Lord Connington to win her over. Tyrion calls him a fool, warning him [29]:

Trust no one, my prince. [29]

Tyrion plants the seeds of doubt on the young prince, pointing that Haldon, Jon Connington, Rolly Duckfield, Lemore and every one of the friends who raised him could also betray him, and that Illyrio Mopatis, Varys, and Daenerys are even less trustworthy. [29]

He then suggests a different course of action to Aegon. Heading to Westeros instead of going east, taking advantage of all the problems caused by the War of the Five Kings. He points that the North is in a chaotic condition, the Riverlands are devastated, while Stannis Baratheon holds Storm's End and Dragonstone. The coming winter will starve out the realm. He then paints the opposition as particularly weak. He points that King Tommen Baratheon is just a boy, and all his potential regents come with their own problems. Cersei Lannister will alienate her own allies, Jaime Lannister actively avoids the responsibility of ruling, and Kevan Lannister is a born follower. Mace Tyrell will have to fight the Lannisters to become regent, and Stannis' unpopularity makes him an unlikely choice. Only a victorious Aegon can hope to meet Daenerys as her equal. [29]

The game of cyvasse ends with a loss for Aegon. [29]

During the game, the Prince had taken an advise on strategy from his opponent. An advice which intentionally manipulated him towards defeat. Tyrion once again warns, trust no one, proving that even advisors can not be trusted. A frustrated Aegon kicks over the board, discarding the cyvasse pieces across the deck of the poleboat. He then commands Tyrion to pick up the pieces. Tyrion recognizes a Targaryen in this behavior. [29]

The Shy Maid is stationed at the riverfront of Volon Therys. Jon Connington and Aegon depart the ship, heading towards the camp of the Golden Company. The mercenaries have situated themselves 3 miles (4,83 kilometers) south of the town. The travelers have already learned that Daenerys is still in Meereen, and that Illyrio had miscalculated. Aegon complains of being sick of the blue dye in his hair, eager to wash it out. He smiles at the idea of having his own army. But then expresses concerns over the loyalty of sellswords. Connington tries to explain that men should be allowed to earn trust through loyal service. Both trusting and mistrusting everyone without reason should be avoided. Privately, Connington worries that Aegon could take Tyrion's advise to heart and become as paranoid as Aerys II. [30]

Arriving at the camp, Connington introduces the boy as his squire to Franklyn Flowers. Flowers escorts them to the tent of Harry Strickland, for their initial meeting with the officers of the Company. Strickland initially sees the boy as a son to Connington. Connington instead introduces him as Aegon VI, King of the Andals, Rhoynar, and the First Men. This introduction is met with silence by the officers. Connington realizes that all of them were aware of Aegon's identity for sometime. [30]

Connington and the the officers briefly discuss about Daenerys' lingering presence in Meereen and the ongoing conflict in Slaver's Bay. Wondering whether they should head east and join the conflict. Several of them are already disillusioned with Daenerys. Aegon sees the opportunity to introduce his own plan of going to Westeros and claiming the throne in his own name. Strickland tries to point out the risk of this plan. But most of the officers are eager to support this course of action. Aegon further explains that his aunt is welcome to keep Meereen. His plan is to move fast and strike hard, gaining a foothold before the Lannisters can react. This would certainly gain them some new allies. Connington is impressed, thinking that this is a new side of Aegon. All officers swear allegiance to Aegon. They agree, however, to keep his identity secret from the soldiers. At least until they actually land in Westeros. [30]

Ten ships of the Golden Company departed Volantis. Six of them made it to Westeros, landing at Cape Wrath. Connington leads 1/4 of the forces in seizing Griffin's Roost. Simultaneously Tristan Rivers besieges Crows Nest, and Laswell Peake besieges Rain House. Each with their own 1/4 of the Company. Aegon remains in their camp, guarded by the remaining 1/4 of the Company under Gorys Edoryen. Haldon collects information about the military and diplomatic situation across Westeros. He already considers marital alliances for King Aegon and his Hand of the King, Jon Connington. The latter is against both such plans. [6]

Connington receives news that part of the missing four ships landed in Estermont. Marq Mandrake has led the men there in capturing Greenstone. The rest of the ships are still missing. Franklyn Flowers suggests that the missing men are scattered across the Stepstones. Connington decides to bring Aegon to Griffin's Roost for increased safety. Franklyn points,however, that Aegon would like to be in the thick of things. [6] Connington has a plan to capture Storm's End, last foothold of Stannis in the Stormlands. [6]

Four days later, Aegon arrives at Griffin's Roost. He rides at the head of a column including a hundred horses with their riders, and three elephants. He is accompanied by Lemore and Rolly Duckfield, the first person in his version of the Kingsguard. [6] Connington remembers arguing with Aegon over the appointment of Rolly. Connington had pointed out that seats in the Kingsguard should be reserved for warriors of great renown and/or sons of great lords. Aegon pointed out that Jaime Lannister fit that description perfectly, and was currently known as the Kingslayer. He would rather have men personally loyal to himself, ready to die for his safety. [6]

Connington asks to have the Prince escorted to his solar. But soon realizes that Prince Aegon is less biddable (obedient) than Young Griff. Aegon leaves him waiting for "the better half of a hour". Bringing Duck with him instead of coming alone. Connington tries to dismiss the bodyguard, but Aegon insists on having Rolly by his side. Aegon mentions discussing the plan to take Storm's End with Strickland and Flowers. Strickland even tried to persuade him to delay the plan. Aegon,however, feels Strickland is a bit of "an old maid" and is in favor of the plan. With one significant change. He intends to personally lead the attack. [6]

The Small Council in King's Landing discusses the matter of the Golden Company. Qyburn and Pycelle have received reports about mercenaries landing in Tarth, the Stepstones, and Estermont. There are also reports about Jon Connington heading against Storm's End. Kevan Lannister points out that now they have opponents to their south. A third ongoing threat along with Stannis in the North and the Ironborn in the west. Kevan already has information about a new Targaryen pretender having Joined Connington, though Randyll Tarly dismisses Aegon as an impostor. [2] Pycelle suggests that they could use gold to purchase the loyalty of the Golden company. Then the sellswords would hand over Lord Connington and the pretender. Harys Swyft points out that the Iron Throne is heavily in debt and has no gold to offer. [2]

Varys informs the dying Kevan that Aegon will raise his banner above Storm's End. [2]

Quotes about Aegon

"Aegon has been shaped for rule before he could walk. He has been trained in arms, as befits a knight to be, but that was not the end of his education. He reads and writes, he speaks several tongues, he has studied history and law and poetry. A septa has instructed him in the mysteries of the Faith since he was old enough to understand them. He has lived with fisherfolk, worked with his hands, swum in rivers and mended nets and learned to wash his own clothes at need. He can fish and cook and bind up a wound, he knows what it is like to be hungry, to be hunted, to be afraid. Tommen has been taught that kingship is his right. Aegon knows kingship is his duty, that a king must put his people first, and live and rule for them". [2]

Varys to the dying Kevan Lannister


"His silvery hair was blowing in the wind, and his eyes were a deep purple, darker than this boy's". [6]

Jon Connington reminisces about prince Rhaegar Targaryen as he addressed Aegon following the capture of Griffin's Roost by the Golden Company.

Family

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Aegon V
 
Betha
Blackwood
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Duncan
 
Jenny
of Oldstones
 
Jaehaerys II
 
Shaera
 
Daeron
 
Rhaelle
 
Ormund
Baratheon
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Aerys II
 
Rhaella
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
House Baratheon.svg
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Rhaegar
 
Elia
Martell
 
Shaena
 
 
Stillborn
child
 
 
Jaehaerys
 
 
Drogo
 
Daenerys
 
Hizdahr
zo Loraq
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Rhaenys
 
Aegon
 
 
 
Daeron
 
Aegon
 
Viserys
 
Rhaego
 

References and Notes

  1. Westeros. "A Number of Questions." (August 26, 2000). So Spake Martin
  2. 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 A Dance with Dragons, Epilogue.
  3. 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 3.8 3.9 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 8, Tyrion III.
  4. 4.00 4.01 4.02 4.03 4.04 4.05 4.06 4.07 4.08 4.09 4.10 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 14, Tyrion IV.
  5. 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 5.6 5.7 5.8 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 18, Tyrion V.
  6. 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 6.5 6.6 6.7 6.8 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 61, The Griffin Reborn.
  7. A Feast for Crows, Chapter 35, Samwell IV.
  8. 8.0 8.1 A Game of Thrones, Chapter 20, Eddard IV.
  9. 9.0 9.1 A Game of Thrones, Chapter 30, Eddard VII.
  10. A Storm of Swords, Chapter 37, Jaime V.
  11. A Clash of Kings, Chapter 25, Tyrion VI.
  12. 12.0 12.1 A Storm of Swords, Chapter 11, Jaime II.
  13. 13.0 13.1 A Game of Thrones, Chapter 3, Daenerys I.
  14. A Game of Thrones, Chapter 64, Daenerys VIII.
  15. 15.0 15.1 15.2 A Game of Thrones, Chapter 12, Eddard II.
  16. 16.0 16.1 A Clash of Kings, Chapter 17, Tyrion IV.
  17. 17.0 17.1 A Storm of Swords, Chapter 70, Tyrion X.
  18. 18.0 18.1 18.2 18.3 A Storm of Swords, Chapter 53, Tyrion VI.
  19. A Game of Thrones, Chapter 45, Eddard XII.
  20. A Storm of Swords, Chapter 34, Arya VI.
  21. A Feast for Crows, Chapter 13, The Soiled Knight.
  22. A Feast for Crows, Chapter 40, Princess In The Tower.
  23. A Clash of Kings, Chapter 38, Arya VIII.
  24. A Clash of Kings, Chapter 66, Theon VI.
  25. A Feast for Crows, Chapter 2, The Captain Of Guards.
  26. A Clash of Kings, Chapter 41, Tyrion IX.
  27. A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 11, Daenerys II.
  28. A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 67, The Kingbreaker.
  29. 29.00 29.01 29.02 29.03 29.04 29.05 29.06 29.07 29.08 29.09 29.10 29.11 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 22, Tyrion VI.
  30. 30.0 30.1 30.2 30.3 30.4 30.5 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 24, The Lost Lord.
  31. 31.0 31.1 A Clash of Kings, Chapter 35, Bran V.
  32. A Storm of Swords, Chapter 57, Daenerys V.
  33. 33.0 33.1 33.2 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 2, Daenerys I.
  34. Conversation topic: Dragon Dreams of Ice and Fire on Westeros Forum
  35. A Clash of Kings, Chapter 48, Daenerys IV.
  36. 36.0 36.1 A Clash of Kings, Chapter 63, Daenerys V.
  37. 37.0 37.1 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 5, Tyrion II.