Difference between revisions of "Jon Connington"

From A Wiki of Ice and Fire
Jump to: navigation, search
(Recent Events)
(48 intermediate revisions by 14 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Character
+
{{Infobox character
| Character_name = [[File:House_Connington.png|50px|left]] Jon Connington [[File:House_Connington.png|50px|right]]
+
| firstname = Jon
| image = [[File:Jonconnington.jpg|300px]]
+
| lastname = Connington
| image_caption = ‎Jon Connington - by TheMico
+
| arms = Connington
| Alias = Griff{{Ref|ADWD|18}}<br>The dancing griffins Hand{{ref|asos|11}}
+
| arms2 = Golden Company
| Title = [[Lord of Griffin's Roost]]{{Ref|ADWD|18}}{{ref|ADWD|Appendix}}<br>[[Hand of the King]]{{Ref|ADWD|18}}<br>[[Hand of the King|Hand of the True King]]<ref name=Winds></ref>
+
| title = Lord
 +
| image = [[File:Jon connington.png|300px]]
 +
| image_caption = ‎Jon Connington - by [http://filipehattori.deviantart.com Filipe Ferreira]
 +
| Alias = Griff{{Ref|ADWD|18}}<br>The dancing griffins Hand{{Ref|ASOS|11}}<br>The lord of griffins{{Ref|ASOS|24}}<ref name="Citadel">[http://www.westeros.org/Citadel/FAQ/Entry/Who_were_the_different_people_in_Meeras_story/ "The Citadel: FAQ, entry 6.2.6- Who were the different people in Meera's story?" (2007]</ref><br>Young Lord Connington{{Ref|ASOS|8}}<br>The griffin<ref name=Ar2>[[Arianne II (The Winds of Winter)]]</ref>
 +
| Title = [[Knight|Ser]]{{Ref|ADWD|8}}<br>[[Lord of Griffin's Roost]]{{Ref|ADWD|18}}{{Ref|ADWD|Appendix}}<br>[[Hand of the King]]{{Ref|ADWD|18}}<br>[[Hand of the King|Hand of the True King]]<ref name=Winds1/>
 
| Allegiance = [[House Connington]]<br>[[House Targaryen]]<br>[[Golden Company]]
 
| Allegiance = [[House Connington]]<br>[[House Targaryen]]<br>[[Golden Company]]
 +
| Predecessor = [[Armond Connington]] <small>(Lord of Griffin's Roost)</small><br>[[Owen Merryweather]] <small>(Hand of the King)</small><br>[[Ronnet Connington]] <small>(ruler of Griffin's Roost)</small>
 +
| Successor = [[Qarlton Chelsted]] <small>(Hand of the King)</small><br>[[Ronald Connington]] <small>(ruler of Griffin's Roost)</small>
 
| Race =
 
| Race =
| Culture = [[Stormlands]]
+
| Culture = [[Stormlander]]
 +
| Father = Lord [[Armond Connington]]
 +
| Mother =
 
| Spouse =
 
| Spouse =
| Place_of_Birth = [[Griffin's Roost]]{{ref|awoiaf| Jon Connington}}
+
| Place_of_Birth = [[Griffin's Roost]]{{Ref|awoiaf| Jon Connington}}
 
| Date_of_Birth = {{Date|260}} or {{Date|261}}<ref>''See the [[Years after Aegon's Conquest/Calculations Ages (Continued)#Jon Connington|Jon Connington]] calculation.''</ref>
 
| Date_of_Birth = {{Date|260}} or {{Date|261}}<ref>''See the [[Years after Aegon's Conquest/Calculations Ages (Continued)#Jon Connington|Jon Connington]] calculation.''</ref>
 
| Place_of_Death =
 
| Place_of_Death =
 
| Date_of_Death =
 
| Date_of_Death =
| Books = ''[[The World of Ice and Fire]]'' (mentioned)''<br>[[A Storm of Swords]]'' (mentioned)<br>''[[A Feast for Crows]]'' (mentioned)<br>''[[A Dance with Dragons]]'' (POV)
+
| Books = ''[[The World of Ice & Fire]]'' (mentioned)<br>''[[A Storm of Swords]]'' (mentioned)<br>''[[A Feast for Crows]]'' (mentioned)<br>''[[A Dance with Dragons]]'' (POV)<br>''[[The Winds of Winter]]'' (mentioned)
 
}}
 
}}
  
'''Jon Connington''', also known as '''Griff''',{{ref|ADWD|18}} was the [[Lord of Griffin's Roost|Lord]] of [[Griffin's Roost]], the head of [[House Connington]], towards the end of the reign of King [[Aerys II Targaryen]],{{Ref|ADWD|61}} and served for a short time as [[Hand of the King]] to Aerys II, during [[Robert's Rebellion]].{{Ref|ASOS|11}} Jon was one of the friends of Prince [[Rhaegar Targaryen]],{{ref|aSoS|8}} and served at the court of [[King's Landing]] during the years before he became Hand.{{ref|ADWD|Epilogue}} After failing to defeat Lord [[Robert I Baratheon|Robert Baratheon]] at the [[Battle of the Bells]], he was sent into exile to [[Essos]], where he is believed to have drunk himself to death.{{ref|AFFC|27}}
+
'''Jon Connington''', also known as '''Griff''',{{Ref|ADWD|18}} was the [[Lord of Griffin's Roost|Lord]] of [[Griffin's Roost]], the head of [[House Connington]], towards the end of the reign of King [[Aerys II Targaryen]],{{Ref|ADWD|61}} and he served for a short time as [[Hand of the King]] to Aerys during [[Robert's Rebellion]].{{Ref|ASOS|11}} Jon was one of the friends of Prince [[Rhaegar Targaryen]],{{Ref|aSoS|8}} and served at the court of [[King's Landing]] during the years before he became Hand.{{Ref|ADWD|Epilogue}} After failing to defeat Lord [[Robert I Baratheon|Robert Baratheon]] during the [[Battle of the Bells]], Jon was sent into exile to [[Essos]], where he is believed to have drank himself to death.{{Ref|AFFC|27}}
  
 
==Appearance and Character==
 
==Appearance and Character==
 +
:{{See also|:Category:Images of Jon Connington|l1=Images of Jon Connington}}
 +
[[File:RhaegarandJon.jpg|left|300px|thumb|Jon Connington and Rhaegar Targaryen<br>Art by [http://yakuzafish.deviantart.com yakuzafish]]]
  
:''See also: [[:Category:Images of Jon Connington|Images of Jon Connington]]''
+
In his youth, Jon's hair and beard were fiery red.{{ref|adwd|24}} Nearing forty, Jon is clean shaven with a lined, leathery face.{{Ref|ADWD|24}}{{Ref|ADWD|8}} He has crow's feet at the corners of his pale, blue eyes.{{Ref|ADWD|8}}{{Ref|ADWD|14}} When disguised as the sellsword "Griff", he has dyed his hair blue, though his eyebrows are still red and his red roots show.{{Ref|aDwD|8}}{{ref|ADWD|14}} Jon's hair has turned grey,{{Ref|ADWD|24}} though his beard is still mostly red, with ash showing here and there.{{Ref|ADWD|61}} While pretending to be Griff, Jon prefers to wear a [[red wolf]]-skin cloak.{{Ref|ADWD|24}}{{Ref|ADWD|8}}{{Ref|ADWD|14}}{{Ref|ADWD|22}}
  
[[File:RhaegarandJon.jpg|left|300px|thumb|Jon Connington and Rhaegar]]
+
A capable warrior and commander, Jon was described in his youth as proud, bold, energetic, reckless, and thirsty for glory.{{ref|ADWD|Epilogue}} His years spent in exile have made him more cautious, dangerous, and experienced, however.{{Ref|aDwD|Epilogue}}{{Ref|ADWD|14}} Though [[Griffin's Roost]] is sworn to [[Storm's End]], the humorless{{ref|ADWD|14}} Jon disliked serving Lord [[Robert I Baratheon|Robert Baratheon]].<ref name=Winds1>''[[The Winds of Winter]]'', [[Arianne I (The Winds of Winter)|Arianne I]]</ref>
In his youth, Jon's hair and beard were fiery red.{{ref|adwd|24}} Nearing forty, Jon is clean shaven with a lined, leathery face.{{Ref|ADWD|24}}{{Ref|ADWD|8}} He has crow's feet at the corners of his pale, blue eyes.{{Ref|ADWD|8}}{{Ref|ADWD|14}} When disguised as "''Griff''", he has dyed his hair blue, though his eyebrows are still red, and his red roots are still showing.{{Ref|aDwD|8}}{{ref|ADWD|14}} By now, his hair has turned grey,{{Ref|ADWD|24}} though his beard is still mostly red, with here and there ash showing.{{Ref|ADWD|61}} Whilst pretending to be the sellsword "''Griff''", he prefers to wear a red wolf-skin cloak.{{Ref|ADWD|24}}{{Ref|ADWD|8}}{{Ref|ADWD|14}}{{Ref|ADWD|22}}
 
  
In his youth Jon was described as proud, bold, energetic, reckless, and thirsty for glory. He was ever a capable warrior and commander. His years spent in exile have made him more cautious, more seasoned, and, according to [[Kevan Lannister]], more dangerous.{{Ref|aDwD|Epilogue}} [[Tyrion Lannister]] considers Jon to be dangerous as well, and to be without humor.{{Ref|ADWD|14}} Even though [[Griffin's Roost]] is sworn to [[Storm's End]], Jon had chafed at serving under a lord like [[Robert I Baratheon|Robert Baratheon]].<ref name=Winds>''[[The Winds of Winter]]'', [[Arianne I (The Winds of Winter)|Arianne I]]</ref>
+
[[George R.R. Martin]] has confirmed that one of the [[POV characters]] in ''[[A Dance with Dragons]]'' is [[Gender and sexuality|gay]],<ref>[[So Spake Martin]]: [http://www.westeros.org/Citadel/SSM/Entry/5457/ Union Square Signing (July 14, 2011)]</ref> in "The Lost Lord".<ref>[https://asoiafuniversity.tumblr.com/post/55280523592/here-is-the-transcript-i-took-down-myself-at-the Union Square Signing transcript]</ref> It is implied that Jon was in love with Prince [[Rhaegar Targaryen]]. Jon refers to Rhaegar as his "silver prince" when he reminisces about him,{{ref|ADWD|24}} and Jon believed Rhaegar's wife, Princess [[Elia Martell]], to have been unworthy of him.{{ref|ADWD|61}} Jon also thinks very fondly of the late Ser [[Myles Toyne]], remembering that his ugly features did not matter "when he smiled at you".{{ref|ADWD|24}}
 
 
[[George R.R. Martin]] has confirmed that one of the [[POV]] characters in ''[[A Dance with Dragons]]'' is gay,<ref>[[So Spake Martin]]: [http://www.westeros.org/Citadel/SSM/Entry/5457/ Union Square Signing (July 14, 2011)]</ref> and it is implied that this is Jon, who was in love with Prince [[Rhaegar Targaryen]]. Jon refers to Rhaegar as his ''silver prince'' when he reminisces about him, and believed Rhaegar's wife [[Elia Martell]], to have been unworthy of him.{{ref|ADWD|61}}
 
  
 
==History==
 
==History==
 
[[File:Mustamirri Griff.jpg|260px|thumb|Jon Connington - by mustamirri ©]]
 
[[File:Mustamirri Griff.jpg|260px|thumb|Jon Connington - by mustamirri ©]]
===Early Life===
+
===Early life===
Jon Connington was the only son of [[Armond Connington]], [[Lord of Griffin's Roost|Lord]] of [[Griffin's Roost]], and his wife.{{Ref|AFFC|27}} Jon served as a squire in [[King's Landing]], first alongside Prince [[Rhaegar Targaryen]],{{Ref|aDwD|22}} later for Prince Rhaegar.<ref name=Winds></ref> He was the most headstrong amongst the gaggle of young [[lord]]lings who would gather around Prince Rhaegar competing for his royal favour.{{ref|ADWD|epilogue}}
+
Jon Connington was the only son of [[Armond Connington]], [[Lord of Griffin's Roost|Lord]] of [[Griffin's Roost]], and his wife.{{Ref|AFFC|27}} Jon served as a [[squire]] in [[King's Landing]], first alongside Prince [[Rhaegar Targaryen]]{{Ref|aDwD|22}} and later for the crown prince.<ref name=Winds1/> Jon was the most headstrong of the lordlings around Rhaegar.{{ref|ADWD|epilogue}}
  
During a time when his father was still alive, Rhaegar visited Griffin's Roost upon returning from a visit to [[Dorne]]. Jon recalls how he walked the castle with Rhaegar.{{ref|ADWD|61}} When his father died, Jon inherited the rule to Griffin's Roost, and named his cousin Ser [[Ronald Connington]] as castellan when he left to serve at [[King's Landing]].{{ref|adwd|61}} In {{Date|280}}, Jon was present for the wedding of Prince [[Rhaegar Targaryen]] to Princess [[Elia Martell]] of [[Dorne]], and felt that Elia was unworthy of Rhaegar.{{ref|adwd|61}} In {{Date|281}}, Jon was present at the [[tourney at Harrenhal|tourney]] at [[Harrenhal]], where he danced with [[Ashara Dayne]].{{ref|aSoS|24}} In a later [[tourney at Storm's End|tourney]] at [[Storm's End]], he was unhorsed by Ser [[Barristan Selmy]] of the [[Kingsguard]].{{ref|aSoS|67}}
+
During a time when his father was still alive, Rhaegar visited Griffin's Roost upon returning from a trip to [[Dorne]], and visited the tallest tower of the castle with Jon.{{ref|ADWD|61}} When his father died, Jon inherited the rule to Griffin's Roost, and named his cousin, Ser [[Ronald Connington]], as castellan when he left to serve at [[King's Landing]].{{ref|adwd|61}} In {{Date|280}}, Jon was present for the wedding of Rhaegar to Princess [[Elia Martell]] of Dorne.{{ref|adwd|61}} In {{Date|281}}, Jon was present at the [[tourney at Harrenhal]], where he danced with [[Ashara Dayne]].{{ref|aSoS|24}} In a [[tourney at Storm's End]], he was unhorsed by Ser [[Barristan Selmy]] of the [[Kingsguard]].{{ref|aSoS|67}}
  
 
===Robert's Rebellion===
 
===Robert's Rebellion===
 
:''See also: [[Robert's Rebellion]] and the [[Battle of the Bells]].''
 
:''See also: [[Robert's Rebellion]] and the [[Battle of the Bells]].''
  
During [[Robert's Rebellion]], King [[Aerys II Targaryen]] decided to dismiss his [[Hand of the King]], Lord [[Owen Merryweather]], believing him to be too ineffectual, even suspecting foul play in favor of the rebels on his part.<ref>[[So Spake Martin]]: [http://www.westeros.org/Citadel/SSM/Entry/1118 Young Lord Connington (August 25, 2000)]</ref> To match [[Robert I Baratheon|Robert Baratheon]], one of the leaders of the rebellion, Aerys wanted someone young and vigorous as his next Hand, and named Jon to the office.{{ref|affc|14}}{{Ref|ADWD|Epilogue}} When word of the king’s choice reached Lord [[Tywin Lannister]], a former Hand of the King, Tywin declared that the Handship had come to soon for Jon, believing him too be too young, too bold and too eager for glory.{{ref|ADWD|Epilogue}}
+
During [[Robert's Rebellion]], King [[Aerys II Targaryen]] dismissed his [[Hand of the King]], Lord [[Owen Merryweather]], believing him ineffectual and suspecting foul play by Owen in favor of the rebels.<ref>[[So Spake Martin]]: [http://www.westeros.org/Citadel/SSM/Entry/1118 Young Lord Connington (August 25, 2000)]</ref> To match [[Robert I Baratheon|Robert Baratheon]], Lord of [[Storm's End]] and one of the leaders of the rebellion, Aerys wanted someone young and vigorous as his next Hand, and so named Jon to the office.{{Ref|ADWD|Epilogue}}{{ref|affc|14}} Lord [[Tywin Lannister]], a former Hand to Aerys, considered Jon too young and impetuous.{{ref|ADWD|Epilogue}}
  
Jon promised King Aerys that he would deliver him the head of [[Robert I Baratheon|Robert Baratheon]],{{Ref|ADWD|epilogue}} and personally led an army into the field. After the [[Battle of Ashford]], Jon took over the pursuit of Robert from the [[House Tyrell|Tyrell]] army. In the [[Riverlands]], near the town of [[Stoney Sept]], he caught up with Robert, who had been hiding in the town. Jon's soldiers began a house-to-house search after failing to find him, but they did not locate Robert before his rebel allies arrived at Stoney Sept to oust Jon and his forces. At this point the [[Battle of the Bells]] began. The rebel army under the joint command of Lords [[Eddard Stark]], [[Jon Arryn]] and [[Hoster Tully]] immediately began attacking the royal army. Jon fought back fiercely, personally killing Jon Arryn's nephew and heir, [[Denys Arryn]], and wounding Lord Hoster Tully.{{Ref|ASOS|29}} When Jon saw that the battle was lost, he managed to escape and was able to retreat in good order.{{ref|aSoS|29}}<!--- Jon's retreat was quite a feat considering the fierce, urban fighting would make it hard to hold the army together.{{fact}}--->
+
Jon promised King Aerys he would deliver Robert's head,{{Ref|ADWD|epilogue}} and he led an army into the field. After the [[Battle of Ashford]], Jon took over the pursuit of Robert from the [[House Tyrell|Tyrell]] army and tracked him to [[Stoney Sept]] in the [[riverlands]]. Offering rewards and putting hostages in crow cages,{{Ref|ADWD|61}} Jon's soldiers began a house-to-house search for Robert. They were unable to locate him before his rebel allies, Lords [[Eddard Stark]] and [[Hoster Tully]], arrived at Stoney Sept to oust Jon and his forces. Lord Connington fought back fiercely, killing Lord [[Jon Arryn]]'s nephew and heir, Ser [[Denys Arryn]], and wounding Lord Tully.{{Ref|ASOS|29}} Nearly slain by Robert at the town's sept,{{ref|ADWD|61}} Jon retreated when he saw that the [[Battle of the Bells]] was lost.{{ref|aSoS|29}}
  
When he later reflected on his search for Robert, during his first year in exile, Jon claimed that even [[Tywin Lannister]] himself could not have done better. His friend [[Myles Toyne]], however, argued that Tywin would not have bothered with a search, but would have burned the town and everyone in it. Jon realized that Myles was right, but admitted to himself that, because he had wanted the glory of killing Robert personally, and had not wanted to be branded a murderer, he chose the more honorable course of action.{{ref|aDwD|61}}
+
King Aerys held Jon responsible for his defeat at Stoney Sept and exiled him, stripping him of his titles and passing the rule of [[Griffin's Roost]] to Ser [[Ronald Connington]], who had been Jon's castellan.{{Ref|ADWD|61}} Prince [[Rhaegar Targaryen]] was then killed by Robert at the [[Battle of the Trident|Trident]] and Aerys was killed in the [[Sack of King's Landing]].
  
King Aerys II held Jon responsible for his defeat at the Battle of the Bells and exiled him, stripping him of his titles, passing the rule of Griffin's Roost over to Ser [[Ronald Connington]], who had been Jon's castellan. After the war, the new King [[Robert I Baratheon]] took nine-tenths of the Connington lands, distributing them to more fervent supporters. He also took away the lordship from [[House Connington]], making it a knightly house.{{Ref|ADWD|61}}{{ref|AFFC|27}} Once on the Iron Throne Robert was not willing to recall Lord Jon from exile, since he had been among Prince Rhaegar's closest friends.<ref>[[So Spake Martin]]: [http://www.westeros.org/Citadel/SSM/Month/2002/03/ Knights and Lords (March 02, 2002)]</ref>
+
After the war, the new king, Robert I, took nine-tenths of the Connington lands, distributing them to more fervent supporters. He also took away the [[lord]]ship from [[House Connington]], making them a house of [[landed knight]]s.{{Ref|ADWD|61}}{{ref|AFFC|27}} Once on the [[Iron Throne]] Robert was not willing to recall Jon from exile, since he had been among Rhaegar's closest friends.<ref>[[So Spake Martin]]: [http://www.westeros.org/Citadel/SSM/Month/2002/03/ Knights and Lords (March 02, 2002)]</ref>
  
===Exile===  
+
===Exile===
Now exiled, knowing little else to do, Jon joined the [[Golden Company]].{{Ref|AWOIAF| Jon Connington}}{{Ref|adwd|24}} He served with the company for five years, rising quickly in the ranks to a place of honor at the right hand of [[Myles Toyne]], the captain-general. Jon believes that, had his exile gone otherwise, he might have been the successor to Myles instead of [[Harry Strickland]].{{ref|adwd|24}}
+
The exiled Jon joined the [[Golden Company]]{{Ref|AWOIAF| Jon Connington}}{{Ref|adwd|24}} and served with them for five years, rising quickly in the ranks to a place of honor at the right hand of Ser [[Myles Toyne]], the company's captain-general. Jon believes that, had his exile gone otherwise, he might have been the successor to his friend Myles instead of [[Harry Strickland]].{{ref|adwd|24}} When he reflected on the [[Battle of the Bells]] in his first year of exile, the proud Jon defended his actions. Myles argued that Lord [[Tywin Lannister]] would have burned down [[Stoney Sept]] to kill Robert, despite the civilian casualties.{{ref|ADWD|61}}
  
After a few short years in the Company, both Jon and Myles Toyne were approached by [[Illyrio Mopatis]] and [[Varys]], who informed them that Prince [[Rhaegar Targaryen]]'s infant son, [[Aegon Targaryen (son of Rhaegar)|Aegon]], had survived the [[Sack of King's Landing]] during [[Robert's Rebellion]].{{Ref|AWOIAF| Jon Connington}} In order to remove Jon from the Golden Company, they concocted a plan, of which the remainder of the Golden Company was left unaware, so they would not be able to let anything slip. Jon was kicked out of the Golden Company after being caught stealing from the company's war chests. Afterwards, news was spread that Jon had died, having drank himself to death in [[Lys]]. The shame of the lie caused considerable resentment on Jon’s end, but [[Varys]] insisted the lie was necessary, stating that gallant exiles are long remembered, whereas thieves and drunks are soon forgotten.{{ref|ADWD|24}}
+
After a few short years in the company, Jon and Myles were approached by [[Illyrio Mopatis]] and Lord [[Varys]], who informed them that Prince [[Rhaegar Targaryen]]'s infant son, [[Aegon Targaryen (son of Rhaegar)|Aegon]], had survived the [[Sack of King's Landing]] during [[Robert's Rebellion]].{{Ref|AWOIAF| Jon Connington}} In order to remove Jon from the Golden Company, they concocted a plan, of which the remainder of the Golden Company was left unaware, so they would not be able to let anything slip. Jon was driven from the company after being caught stealing from the company's war chests. Afterwards, news was spread that Jon drank himself to death in [[Lys]].{{ref|ADWD|24}}
  
While Jon went along with Varys's scheme for Prince Aegon's sake, he never liked it, believing it to be a dishonorable slight. Varys, however, was adamant about the need for secrecy.{{Ref|ADWD|24}} The rumors of his disgrace and death eventually reached Westeros and successfully convinced everyone that he was dead,{{Ref|ACOK|3}}{{Ref|AFFC|24}} enabling him to focus on raising and protecting "Young Griff" in the guise of his father, "Griff", during the past twelve years.{{ref|adwd|24}}
+
While Jon went along with Varys's scheme for Prince Aegon's sake, he believed it a dishonorable slight and resented the shameful lie of his death. Varys, however, was adamant about the need for secrecy.{{Ref|ADWD|24}} The rumors of Jon's disgrace and death eventually reached Westeros and convinced everyone that he was dead,{{Ref|ACOK|3}}{{Ref|AFFC|24}} enabling him to focus on raising and protecting "Young Griff" in the guise of his father, "Griff", during the past twelve years.{{ref|adwd|24}}
  
 
==Recent Events==
 
==Recent Events==
 
[[File:griff_young_griff.jpg|Griff with Aegon - © Steamey|thumb|300px|right]]
 
[[File:griff_young_griff.jpg|Griff with Aegon - © Steamey|thumb|300px|right]]
 
===''A Dance with Dragons''===
 
===''A Dance with Dragons''===
Jon Connington, having dyed his hair blue, goes under the name ''Griff'', and has been raising his "son", ''Young Griff'', secretly Prince [[Aegon Targaryen (son of Rhaegar)|Aegon]], on the ''[[Shy Maid]]'', alongside [[Haldon]], [[Rolly Duckfield]], [[Lemore]], [[Ysilla]] and [[Yandry]].{{Ref|ADWD|8}} Jon plans to meet up with Queen [[Daenerys Targaryen]], expecting her to journey towards [[Westeros]] with her army after her conquest of the cities in [[Slaver's Bay]]. Knowing that, whichever route she chooses, Daenerys needs to pass [[Volantis]], it has been decided that the company will wait for her at the [[Free Cities|Free City]].{{Ref|ADWD|5}} [[Illyrio Mopatis]] sends them  [[Tyrion Lannister]], who has fled [[Westeros]] after killing his [[Tywin Lannister|father]] and being condemned to death for the death of King [[Joffrey Baratheon]].{{Ref|ADWD|8}}{{Ref|ADWD|5}} While Connington is made aware by Illyrio who Tyrion is immediately upon the latter's arrival, the secret is kept from the rest of the company.{{Ref|ADWD|8}}
+
Jon Connington, having dyed his hair blue, goes under the name "Griff" and has been raising his claimed son, "Young Griff", secretly Prince [[Aegon Targaryen (son of Rhaegar)|Aegon]]. Jon is still haunted by his failure at the [[Battle of the Bells]],{{ref|ADWD|24}} now feeling he should have burned [[Stoney Sept]] instead of being honorable and seeking glory.{{ref|ADWD|61}}
 +
 
 +
Griff and Young Griff travel on the ''[[Shy Maid]]'' alongside [[Haldon]], [[Rolly Duckfield]], [[Lemore]], [[Ysilla]], and [[Yandry]].{{Ref|ADWD|8}} Jon plans to meet with [[Daenerys Targaryen]], Queen of [[Meereen]], expecting her to journey towards [[Westeros]] with her army after her [[Targaryen campaign in Slaver's Bay|conquest of the cities]] in [[Slaver's Bay]]. Knowing that, whichever route she chooses, Daenerys needs to pass [[Volantis]], it has been decided that the company will wait for her at the [[Free Cities|Free City]].{{Ref|ADWD|5}} [[Illyrio Mopatis]] sends them  [[Tyrion Lannister]], who has fled [[Westeros]] after killing his father [[Tywin Lannister|Tywin]] and being condemned for [[Purple Wedding|the death]] of King [[Joffrey Baratheon|Joffrey I Baratheon]].{{Ref|ADWD|8}}{{Ref|ADWD|5}} While Illyrio informs Jon of Tyrion's identity, the secret is kept from the rest of the company.{{Ref|ADWD|8}}
 +
 
 +
While the ''Shy Maid'' journeys down the [[Rhoyne]], Jon forbids Tyrion from drinking [[wine]] after the latter becomes drunk during one of his first night on the ship, and orders him to write down everything he still recalls from his extensive reading about [[Tyrion Lannister's dragonlore|dragonlore]].{{Ref|ADWD|14}} When they reach the [[Sorrows]], Jon orders Young Griff to safety below deck, but the boy protests. Tyrion reveals he is aware of Jon's true identity and states he should be lucky that [[Varys]] is part of their conspiracy, as the name "Griff" would never have fooled the spymaster.{{Ref|ADWD|18}} Tyrion also reveals that he is aware of the true identity of Young Griff. When [[stone men]] attack the company in [[Chroyane]], Jon rescues Tyrion after the latter is knocked into the water.{{Ref|ADWD|18}}{{Ref|ADWD|22}} Jon contracts [[greyscale]] while rescuing Tyrion, but he keeps it a secret for fear he would be left to die.{{Ref|ADWD|24}}
  
While the ''[[Shy Maid]]'' journey's down the [[Rhoyne]], Jon forbids Tyrion from drinking wine after the latter becomes drunk during one of his first night on the ship, and orders him to write down everything he still recalls from his extensive reading about dragons.{{Ref|ADWD|14}} When they reach the [[Sorrows]], home to the [[stone men]], Jon orders "Young Griff" to go below deck, where he will be safe, but the boy protests. Tyrion Lannister reveals that he is aware of Jon's true identity, and informs him that he should be lucky that [[Varys]] is part of their conspiracy, as the name "Griff" would never have fooled the spymaster.{{Ref|ADWD|18}} Tyrion also reveals that he is aware of the true identity of "Young Griff". When the [[stone men]] attack the company on the boat, Jon rescues Lannister when the latter is knocked into the water.{{Ref|ADWD|18}}{{Ref|ADWD|22}} It is later revealed that Jon has contracted [[greyscale]] by rescuing Tyrion, which he keeps a secret from everyone else, knowing he'll be left to die if his secret is discovered.{{Ref|ADWD|24}}
+
The company soon reaches [[Selhorys]], where Jon sends Haldon with Tyrion to learn about rumors that Daenerys has not yet left Meereen.{{Ref|ADWD|22}} Although these are true, Jon decides to continue their journey to [[Volon Therys]], where the [[Golden Company]] is currently stationed.{{Ref|ADWD|24}} Jon reveals the identity of the young Prince Aegon to the Golden Company, but the highest-ranking officers have already been informed by [[Harry Strickland]], their captain-general. The officers are dismayed that Daenerys stayed in Meereen, and voice their opinions on the constantly changing plans of Illyrio. Aegon suggests they go to Westeros themselves, where they will begin their rebellion, reasoning that, once Daenerys learns of their purpose, she will come west and join them. Aegon's proposal is met with great enthusiasm, and Jon later reflects on his satisfaction with the plan. As the greyscale is beginning to spread across his hand, Jon hopes he will live long enough to seat Aegon on the [[Iron Throne]].{{Ref|ADWD|24}}
  
The company soon reaches [[Selhorys]], and Jon sends Haldon with Tyrion into the city to learn the truth about the rumors claiming that Daenerys Targaryen has still not yet left [[Meereen]].{{Ref|ADWD|22}} Despite the fact that these rumors are confirmed to be true, Jon decides to continue their journey to [[Volon Therys]], where the [[Golden Company]] is currently stationed.{{Ref|ADWD|24}} Jon presents the young Prince to the Golden Company and reveals the boy's true identity, but to his dismay, none of the highest-ranking officers are surprised, and Jon realises [[Harry Strickland]], the commander of the Golden Company, had already revealed the secret to them earlier. The officers of the Golden Company are in dismay about the fact that Daenerys Targaryen continues to stay at [[Meereen]], and voice their opinions on the constantly changing plans of [[Illyrio Mopatis]]. It is Prince Aegon who eventually suggests they go to [[Westeros]] themselves, where they will begin their rebellion, reasoning that, once Daenerys learns of their purpose, she will come west and join them. Aegon's proposal is met with great enthusiasm, and Jon later reflects on his satisfaction with the plan, impressed with the side Aegon showed that day. As the greyscale he has contracted is beginning to spread across his hand, Jon hopes he will live long enough to seat Aegon on the [[Iron Throne]].{{Ref|ADWD|24}} Additionally, Jon is still plagued by guilt over the outcome of the [[Battle of the Bells]] and hears the tolling of the bells every time he closes his eyes. He knows that with greyscale his death is coming for him, and believes that if he can achieve seating Aegon on the throne, the bells will finally stop tolling and he can die content in his home of Griffin's Roost.{{ref|adwd|24}}
+
[[File:Greyscale.jpg|left|350px|thumb|Jon Connington deals with his greyscale. ©FFG]]
  
[[File:Oldjonconnington.png|left|300px|thumb|Jon Connington landing on Westeros]]
+
The journey of the Golden Company to Westeros is difficult, due to the [[autumn]] storms. The ships are scattered, and the Volantene fleet drops them off on multiple different locations, leaving the [[landing of the Golden Company]] with a smaller host. Despite this, Jon leads a group of men in the successful [[taking of Griffin's Roost]], his own former seat. Jon reminisces over Prince [[Rhaegar Targaryen]] visit to [[Griffin's Roost]], his defeat in the [[Battle of the Bells]], his exile by King [[Aerys II Targaryen]], and the taking of his lands by King [[Robert I Baratheon]]. Jon is glad that his cousin [[Ronald Connington|Ronald]], who had received rule over Griffin's Roost after Jon's exile, is dead, as it means he will not have to fight him, as well as that Ronald's son, [[Ronnet Connington|Red Ronnet]], is away. Jon has his remaining family members taken into custody, and tells Haldon to prepare a letter to [[Doran Martell]], telling the [[Prince of Dorne]] that his sister [[Elia Martell|Elia's]] son, Prince Aegon, is still alive. When Haldon discusses rewards to hand out to lords in order to convince them to join Aegon's cause, Jon refuses to marry Aegon off, insisting he must be free to marry Daenerys once she returns to Westeros. He also refuses to present himself as a marriage candidate, for fear of having his greyscale become known.{{Ref|ADWD|61}}
The journey of the Golden Company to Westeros is difficult, due to the autumn storms. The ships are scattered, and the [[Volantene]] have dropped them off on multiple different locations, leaving them with a smaller host. Despite this, Jon leads a group of men [[Taking of Griffin's Roost|to conquer Griffin's Roost]], his own former seat, which they do successfully. Once in the castle, Jon reminisces over the time [[Rhaegar Targaryen]] visited [[Griffin's Roost]], and reflects on how he was [[Battle of the Bells|unable to stop]] [[Robert I Baratheon|Robert Baratheon]], how [[Aerys II Targaryen]] exiled him, and how his lands were mostly taken away by Robert. Jon is glad that his cousin [[Ronald Connington|Ronald]], who had received rule over Griffin's Roost after Jon's exile, is dead, as it means he will not have to fight him, as well as that Ronald's son [[Ronnet Connington|Ronnet]] is away. Jon has his remaining family members taken into custody, and tells [[Haldon]] to prepare a letter to Prince [[Doran Martell]] of [[Dorne]], telling him his [[Elia Martell|sister's]] son is still alive, stating that gaining the support from the [[Prince of Dorne]] is essential. When Haldon discusses rewards to hand out to lords in order to convince them to join Prince Aegon's cause, Jon refuses to marry Aegon off, insisting he must be free to marry Daenerys once she returns to Westeros. He also refuses to present himself as a marriage candidate, for fear of having his greyscale become known.{{Ref|ADWD|61}}
 
  
When Prince Aegon arrives four days later, Jon recalls how he had disagreed with Aegon's decision to name Rolly to the [[Kingsguard]], as he hoped to fill the Kingsguard with younger sons of important lords to bind them to their cause. Jon informs the prince that they are planning to take [[Storm's End]] in ten days, having previously refused the suggestion of making an alliance with [[Stannis Baratheon]]. Aegon agrees with Jon's plan, but demands he leads the troups himself.{{Ref|ADWD|61}}
+
When Prince Aegon arrives at Griffin's Roost four days later, Jon recalls how he had disagreed with the boy's decision to name Rolly to the [[Kingsguard]], as Jon had hoped to fill the White Swords with younger sons of important lords to bind them to their cause. Jon informs the prince that they are planning to take [[Storm's End]] in ten days, having previously refused the suggestion of making an alliance with [[Stannis Baratheon]]. Aegon agrees with Jon's plan, but demands he lead the attack himself.{{Ref|ADWD|61}}
  
Jon wishes to let the Iron Throne believe that the invading force is simply an exiled Lord attempting to retake his old seat, and even plans to write the King to ask for a pardon to support the ruse.{{Ref|ADWD|61}} News of Jon arrive in King's Landing not too much later (though news of Aegon has reached them as well), and Jon's cousin [[Ronnet Connington]] is intent on retaking his seat, though the [[small council]] is in doubt about his loyalty. [[Kevan Lannister]], recalling Jon from the past, realises that he could be a dangerous threat.{{Ref|ADWD|Epilogue}}
+
Jon wishes to let the Iron Throne believe that the invading force is simply an exiled lord attempting to retake his old seat, and he plans to write King [[Tommen Baratheon|Tommen I Baratheon]] for a pardon to support the ruse.{{Ref|ADWD|61}} News of Jon and Aegon arrives in King's Landing not too much later, and Red Ronnet is intent on retaking his seat, though Tommen's [[small council]] is in doubt about his loyalty. Ser [[Kevan Lannister]], Tommen's regent, realizes that Jon could be a dangerous threat.{{Ref|ADWD|Epilogue}}
  
 
===''The Winds of Winter''===
 
===''The Winds of Winter''===
Jon's letter has reached Prince [[Doran Martell]], who sends out his daughter [[Arianne Martell|Arianne]] to seak out Jon and Aegon.<ref name=Winds></ref>
+
{{Warning/twow}}
 +
[[File:The Griffin by Jroahn.jpg|thumb|right|250px|The Griffin, by [https://jroahn.tumblr.com/ Jroahn]]]
 +
Ser [[Addam Whitehead]] is among a group of men from the [[Weeping Town]] who seek out Jon at Griffin's Roost.<ref name=Winds2>''[[The Winds of Winter]]'', [[Arianne II (The Winds of Winter)|Arianne II]]</ref> Jon's letter reaches Doran, who sends his daughter, Princess [[Arianne Martell|Arianne]], to seek out Aegon and Jon, who calls himself the Hand of the True King.<ref name=Winds1/> Arianne learns that Jon has marched from Griffin's Roost, and that he has forbidden the sellswords of the [[Golden Company]] from raping during their invasion. Lady [[Mary Mertyns]] is skeptical of their conduct, however. Once at Griffin's Roost, Haldon informs the princess that Jon and Aegon have taken Storm's End, where Arianne is awaited.<ref name=Winds2/>
  
 
==Quotes by Jon==
 
==Quotes by Jon==
{{Quote|I understand hate well enough.{{ref|ADWD|8}}}} – Jon, to [[Tyrion Lannister]]
+
{{Quote|I understand hate well enough.{{Ref|ADWD|8}}|Jon, to [[Tyrion Lannister]]}}
 
 
 
 
{{Quote|Let me live long enough to see [[Aegon Targaryen (son of Rhaegar)|the boy]] sit on the [[Iron Throne]], and [[Varys]] will pay for that slight and so much more. Then we'll see who's soon forgotten.{{ref|ADWD|24}}}}  – Jon's thoughts
 
  
 +
{{Quote|Let me live long enough to see [[Aegon Targaryen (son of Rhaegar)|the boy]] sit on the [[Iron Throne]], and [[Varys]] will pay for that slight and so much more. Then we'll see who's soon forgotten.{{ref|ADWD|24}}|Jon's thoughts}}
  
{{Quote|I rose too high, loved too hard, dared too much. I tried to grasp a star, overreached, and fell.{{ref|ADWD|61}}}} – Jon's thoughts
+
{{quote|[[Greyscale|Death]], he knew, but slow. I still have time. A year. Two years. Five. Some [[stone men]] live for ten. Time enough to cross [[narrow sea|the sea]], to see [[Griffin's Roost]] again. To end the [[House Baratheon of King's Landing|Usurper's line]] for good and all, and put [[Aegon Targaryen (son of Rhaegar)|Rhaegar's son]] upon the [[Iron Throne]]. Then Lord Jon Connington could die content.{{ref|ADWD|24}}|Jon's thoughts}}
  
 +
{{Quote|I rose too high, loved too hard, dared too much. I tried to grasp a star, overreached, and fell.{{ref|ADWD|61}}|Jon's thoughts}}
  
{{Quote|I failed [[Rhaegar Targaryen|the father]], but I will not fail [[Aegon Targaryen (son of Rhaegar)|the son]].{{ref|aDwD|61}}}}  – Jon's thoughts
+
{{Quote|I failed [[Rhaegar Targaryen|the father]], but I will not fail [[Aegon Targaryen (son of Rhaegar)|the son]].{{ref|aDwD|61}}|Jon's thoughts}}
  
 
==Quotes about Jon==
 
==Quotes about Jon==
{{Quote|He has supped on hate himself, this one. It has warmed him in the night for years.{{ref|ADWD|8}}}} – [[Tyrion Lannister]]'s thoughts
+
{{Quote|He has supped on hate himself, this one. It has warmed him in the night for years.{{ref|ADWD|8}}|[[Tyrion Lannister]]'s thoughts}}
  
 +
{{quote|We want no songs about the gallant exile. Those who die heroic deaths are long remembered, thieves and drunks and cravens soon forgotten.{{ref|ADWD|24}}|[[Varys]] to Jon}}
  
{{quote|Send me against my uncle, and I will bring you back his head, and the head of [[Aegon Targaryen (son of Rhaegar)|this false dragon]] too.{{ref|ADWD|Epilogue}}}} – [[Ronnet Connington]], to the small council
+
{{quote|Send me against my uncle, and I will bring you back his head, and the head of [[Aegon Targaryen (son of Rhaegar)|this false dragon]] too.{{ref|ADWD|Epilogue}}|[[Ronnet Connington]], to the small council}}
  
 +
{{Quote|What victories has he ever won that we should fear him? He could have ended [[Robert's Rebellion]] at [[Battle of the Bells|Stoney Sept]]. He failed. Just as the [[Golden Company]] has always failed. Some may rush to join them, aye. The realm is well rid of such fools.{{ref|ADWD|Epilogue}}|[[Mace Tyrell]], to the small council}}
  
{{Quote|What victories has he ever won that we should fear him? He could have ended [[Robert's Rebellion]] at [[Battle of the Bells|Stoney Sept]]. He failed. Just as the [[Golden Company]] has always failed. Some may rush to join them, aye. The realm is well rid of such fools.{{ref|ADWD|Epilogue}}}} – [[Mace Tyrell]], to the small council
+
{{quote|Too soon. Connington is too young, too bold, too eager for glory.{{ref|ADWD|Epilogue}}|[[Tywin Lannister]], on Jon being named [[Hand of the King]]}}
  
 +
{{Quote|If this is indeed Jon Connington, he will be a different man. Older, harder, more seasoned ... more dangerous.{{ref|ADWD|Epilogue}}|[[Kevan Lannister]]'s thoughts}}
  
{{quote|Too soon. Connington is too young, too bold, too eager for glory.{{ref|ADWD|Epilogue}}}} – [[Tywin Lannister]], on Jon being named [[Hand of the King]]
+
{{quote|'''Arianne''': What sort of man was he? Honest and honorable, venal and grasping, proud?<br>
 
+
'''Daemon''': Proud, for a certainty. Even arrogant. A faithful friend to [[Rhaegar Targaryen|Rhaegar]], but prickly with others. [[Robert I Baratheon|Robert]] was his liege, but I've heard it said that Connington chafed at serving such a lord.<ref name=Winds1/>|[[Arianne Martell]] and [[Daemon Sand]]}}
 
 
{{Quote|If this is indeed Jon Connington, he will be a different man.  Older, harder, more seasoned ... more dangerous.{{ref|ADWD|Epilogue}}}} – [[Kevan Lannister]]'s thoughts
 
 
 
  
{{quote|'''Arianne''': What sort of man was he? Honest and honorable, venal and grasping, proud?<br>
+
{{quote|Melons or maidenheads, it’s all the same to your sort. If you want it, you take it. If you should see this Lord Connington, you tell him that I knew his mother, and she would be ashamed.<ref name=Winds2/>|[[Mary Mertyns]] to [[Chain]] and [[Arianne Martell]]}}
'''Daemon''': Proud, for a certainty. Even arrogant. A faithful friend to [[Rhaegar Targaryen|Rhaegar]], but prickly with others. [[Robert Baratheon|Robert]] was his liege, but I've heard it said that Connington chafed at serving such a lord.<ref>''[[The Winds of Winter]]'', [[Arianne I (The Winds of Winter)|Arianne I]]</ref>}} – [[Arianne Martell]] and [[Daemon Sand]]
 
  
 
==Family==
 
==Family==
Line 111: Line 121:
  
 
==References==
 
==References==
{{references|2}}
+
{{References|2}}
  
 
{{POV Characters}}
 
{{POV Characters}}
{{Template:Hands of the King}}
+
{{Hands of the King}}
{{Small council}}
+
{{Aerys II small council}}
 +
{{Protectors of Young Griff}}
  
 
[[Category:House Connington]]
 
[[Category:House Connington]]
[[Category:Lords of Griffin's Roost]]
 
 
[[Category:Characters from the Stormlands|Connington, Jon]]
 
[[Category:Characters from the Stormlands|Connington, Jon]]
 +
[[Category:Characters suffering from greyscale|Connington, Jon]]
 
[[Category:Courtiers and followers of Aegon VI Targaryen|Connington, Jon]]
 
[[Category:Courtiers and followers of Aegon VI Targaryen|Connington, Jon]]
[[Category:Golden Company|Connington, Jon]]
+
[[Category:Exiles|Connington, Jon]]
 +
[[Category:Friends and companions of Rhaegar Targaryen|Connington, Jon]]
 
[[Category:Hands of the King|Connington, Jon]]
 
[[Category:Hands of the King|Connington, Jon]]
 
[[Category:Knights|Connington, Jon]]
 
[[Category:Knights|Connington, Jon]]
 +
[[Category:LGBT+ characters‎|Connington, Jon]]
 +
[[Category:Lords of Griffin's Roost]]
 +
[[Category:Members of Aerys II Targaryen's court|Connington, Jon]]
 +
[[Category:Members of the Golden Company|Connington, Jon]]
 
[[Category:Mercenaries|Connington, Jon]]
 
[[Category:Mercenaries|Connington, Jon]]
 
[[Category:Nobles|Connington, Jon]]
 
[[Category:Nobles|Connington, Jon]]
[[Category:Exiles|Connington, Jon]]
 
 
[[Category:POV characters|Connington, Jon]]
 
[[Category:POV characters|Connington, Jon]]
 
[[Category:Royalists of Robert's Rebellion|Connington, Jon]]
 
[[Category:Royalists of Robert's Rebellion|Connington, Jon]]
 
[[Category:Veterans of Robert's Rebellion|Connington, Jon]]
 
[[Category:Veterans of Robert's Rebellion|Connington, Jon]]
[[Category:Members of Aerys II Targaryen's court|Connington, Jon]]
 
  
 
[[es:Jon Connington]]
 
[[es:Jon Connington]]

Revision as of 05:56, 30 May 2023

House Connington.svg Lord
Jon Connington
Golden Company.svg
Jon connington.png
‎Jon Connington - by Filipe Ferreira

Aliases
  • Griff[1]
  • The dancing griffins Hand[2]
  • The lord of griffins[3][4]
  • Young Lord Connington[5]
  • The griffin[6]
Titles
Allegiances
Predecessors
Successors
Culture Stormlander
Born 260 AC or 261 AC[10]
Griffin's Roost[11]
Father Lord Armond Connington
Books

Jon Connington, also known as Griff,[1] was the Lord of Griffin's Roost, the head of House Connington, towards the end of the reign of King Aerys II Targaryen,[12] and he served for a short time as Hand of the King to Aerys during Robert's Rebellion.[2] Jon was one of the friends of Prince Rhaegar Targaryen,[5] and served at the court of King's Landing during the years before he became Hand.[13] After failing to defeat Lord Robert Baratheon during the Battle of the Bells, Jon was sent into exile to Essos, where he is believed to have drank himself to death.[14]

Appearance and Character

Jon Connington and Rhaegar Targaryen
Art by yakuzafish

In his youth, Jon's hair and beard were fiery red.[15] Nearing forty, Jon is clean shaven with a lined, leathery face.[15][7] He has crow's feet at the corners of his pale, blue eyes.[7][16] When disguised as the sellsword "Griff", he has dyed his hair blue, though his eyebrows are still red and his red roots show.[7][16] Jon's hair has turned grey,[15] though his beard is still mostly red, with ash showing here and there.[12] While pretending to be Griff, Jon prefers to wear a red wolf-skin cloak.[15][7][16][17]

A capable warrior and commander, Jon was described in his youth as proud, bold, energetic, reckless, and thirsty for glory.[13] His years spent in exile have made him more cautious, dangerous, and experienced, however.[13][16] Though Griffin's Roost is sworn to Storm's End, the humorless[16] Jon disliked serving Lord Robert Baratheon.[9]

George R.R. Martin has confirmed that one of the POV characters in A Dance with Dragons is gay,[18] in "The Lost Lord".[19] It is implied that Jon was in love with Prince Rhaegar Targaryen. Jon refers to Rhaegar as his "silver prince" when he reminisces about him,[15] and Jon believed Rhaegar's wife, Princess Elia Martell, to have been unworthy of him.[12] Jon also thinks very fondly of the late Ser Myles Toyne, remembering that his ugly features did not matter "when he smiled at you".[15]

History

Jon Connington - by mustamirri ©

Early life

Jon Connington was the only son of Armond Connington, Lord of Griffin's Roost, and his wife.[14] Jon served as a squire in King's Landing, first alongside Prince Rhaegar Targaryen[17] and later for the crown prince.[9] Jon was the most headstrong of the lordlings around Rhaegar.[13]

During a time when his father was still alive, Rhaegar visited Griffin's Roost upon returning from a trip to Dorne, and visited the tallest tower of the castle with Jon.[12] When his father died, Jon inherited the rule to Griffin's Roost, and named his cousin, Ser Ronald Connington, as castellan when he left to serve at King's Landing.[12] In 280 AC, Jon was present for the wedding of Rhaegar to Princess Elia Martell of Dorne.[12] In 281 AC, Jon was present at the tourney at Harrenhal, where he danced with Ashara Dayne.[3] In a tourney at Storm's End, he was unhorsed by Ser Barristan Selmy of the Kingsguard.[20]

Robert's Rebellion

See also: Robert's Rebellion and the Battle of the Bells.

During Robert's Rebellion, King Aerys II Targaryen dismissed his Hand of the King, Lord Owen Merryweather, believing him ineffectual and suspecting foul play by Owen in favor of the rebels.[21] To match Robert Baratheon, Lord of Storm's End and one of the leaders of the rebellion, Aerys wanted someone young and vigorous as his next Hand, and so named Jon to the office.[13][22] Lord Tywin Lannister, a former Hand to Aerys, considered Jon too young and impetuous.[13]

Jon promised King Aerys he would deliver Robert's head,[13] and he led an army into the field. After the Battle of Ashford, Jon took over the pursuit of Robert from the Tyrell army and tracked him to Stoney Sept in the riverlands. Offering rewards and putting hostages in crow cages,[12] Jon's soldiers began a house-to-house search for Robert. They were unable to locate him before his rebel allies, Lords Eddard Stark and Hoster Tully, arrived at Stoney Sept to oust Jon and his forces. Lord Connington fought back fiercely, killing Lord Jon Arryn's nephew and heir, Ser Denys Arryn, and wounding Lord Tully.[23] Nearly slain by Robert at the town's sept,[12] Jon retreated when he saw that the Battle of the Bells was lost.[23]

King Aerys held Jon responsible for his defeat at Stoney Sept and exiled him, stripping him of his titles and passing the rule of Griffin's Roost to Ser Ronald Connington, who had been Jon's castellan.[12] Prince Rhaegar Targaryen was then killed by Robert at the Trident and Aerys was killed in the Sack of King's Landing.

After the war, the new king, Robert I, took nine-tenths of the Connington lands, distributing them to more fervent supporters. He also took away the lordship from House Connington, making them a house of landed knights.[12][14] Once on the Iron Throne Robert was not willing to recall Jon from exile, since he had been among Rhaegar's closest friends.[24]

Exile

The exiled Jon joined the Golden Company[11][15] and served with them for five years, rising quickly in the ranks to a place of honor at the right hand of Ser Myles Toyne, the company's captain-general. Jon believes that, had his exile gone otherwise, he might have been the successor to his friend Myles instead of Harry Strickland.[15] When he reflected on the Battle of the Bells in his first year of exile, the proud Jon defended his actions. Myles argued that Lord Tywin Lannister would have burned down Stoney Sept to kill Robert, despite the civilian casualties.[12]

After a few short years in the company, Jon and Myles were approached by Illyrio Mopatis and Lord Varys, who informed them that Prince Rhaegar Targaryen's infant son, Aegon, had survived the Sack of King's Landing during Robert's Rebellion.[11] In order to remove Jon from the Golden Company, they concocted a plan, of which the remainder of the Golden Company was left unaware, so they would not be able to let anything slip. Jon was driven from the company after being caught stealing from the company's war chests. Afterwards, news was spread that Jon drank himself to death in Lys.[15]

While Jon went along with Varys's scheme for Prince Aegon's sake, he believed it a dishonorable slight and resented the shameful lie of his death. Varys, however, was adamant about the need for secrecy.[15] The rumors of Jon's disgrace and death eventually reached Westeros and convinced everyone that he was dead,[25][26] enabling him to focus on raising and protecting "Young Griff" in the guise of his father, "Griff", during the past twelve years.[15]

Recent Events

Griff with Aegon - © Steamey

A Dance with Dragons

Jon Connington, having dyed his hair blue, goes under the name "Griff" and has been raising his claimed son, "Young Griff", secretly Prince Aegon. Jon is still haunted by his failure at the Battle of the Bells,[15] now feeling he should have burned Stoney Sept instead of being honorable and seeking glory.[12]

Griff and Young Griff travel on the Shy Maid alongside Haldon, Rolly Duckfield, Lemore, Ysilla, and Yandry.[7] Jon plans to meet with Daenerys Targaryen, Queen of Meereen, expecting her to journey towards Westeros with her army after her conquest of the cities in Slaver's Bay. Knowing that, whichever route she chooses, Daenerys needs to pass Volantis, it has been decided that the company will wait for her at the Free City.[27] Illyrio Mopatis sends them Tyrion Lannister, who has fled Westeros after killing his father Tywin and being condemned for the death of King Joffrey I Baratheon.[7][27] While Illyrio informs Jon of Tyrion's identity, the secret is kept from the rest of the company.[7]

While the Shy Maid journeys down the Rhoyne, Jon forbids Tyrion from drinking wine after the latter becomes drunk during one of his first night on the ship, and orders him to write down everything he still recalls from his extensive reading about dragonlore.[16] When they reach the Sorrows, Jon orders Young Griff to safety below deck, but the boy protests. Tyrion reveals he is aware of Jon's true identity and states he should be lucky that Varys is part of their conspiracy, as the name "Griff" would never have fooled the spymaster.[1] Tyrion also reveals that he is aware of the true identity of Young Griff. When stone men attack the company in Chroyane, Jon rescues Tyrion after the latter is knocked into the water.[1][17] Jon contracts greyscale while rescuing Tyrion, but he keeps it a secret for fear he would be left to die.[15]

The company soon reaches Selhorys, where Jon sends Haldon with Tyrion to learn about rumors that Daenerys has not yet left Meereen.[17] Although these are true, Jon decides to continue their journey to Volon Therys, where the Golden Company is currently stationed.[15] Jon reveals the identity of the young Prince Aegon to the Golden Company, but the highest-ranking officers have already been informed by Harry Strickland, their captain-general. The officers are dismayed that Daenerys stayed in Meereen, and voice their opinions on the constantly changing plans of Illyrio. Aegon suggests they go to Westeros themselves, where they will begin their rebellion, reasoning that, once Daenerys learns of their purpose, she will come west and join them. Aegon's proposal is met with great enthusiasm, and Jon later reflects on his satisfaction with the plan. As the greyscale is beginning to spread across his hand, Jon hopes he will live long enough to seat Aegon on the Iron Throne.[15]

Jon Connington deals with his greyscale. ©FFG

The journey of the Golden Company to Westeros is difficult, due to the autumn storms. The ships are scattered, and the Volantene fleet drops them off on multiple different locations, leaving the landing of the Golden Company with a smaller host. Despite this, Jon leads a group of men in the successful taking of Griffin's Roost, his own former seat. Jon reminisces over Prince Rhaegar Targaryen visit to Griffin's Roost, his defeat in the Battle of the Bells, his exile by King Aerys II Targaryen, and the taking of his lands by King Robert I Baratheon. Jon is glad that his cousin Ronald, who had received rule over Griffin's Roost after Jon's exile, is dead, as it means he will not have to fight him, as well as that Ronald's son, Red Ronnet, is away. Jon has his remaining family members taken into custody, and tells Haldon to prepare a letter to Doran Martell, telling the Prince of Dorne that his sister Elia's son, Prince Aegon, is still alive. When Haldon discusses rewards to hand out to lords in order to convince them to join Aegon's cause, Jon refuses to marry Aegon off, insisting he must be free to marry Daenerys once she returns to Westeros. He also refuses to present himself as a marriage candidate, for fear of having his greyscale become known.[12]

When Prince Aegon arrives at Griffin's Roost four days later, Jon recalls how he had disagreed with the boy's decision to name Rolly to the Kingsguard, as Jon had hoped to fill the White Swords with younger sons of important lords to bind them to their cause. Jon informs the prince that they are planning to take Storm's End in ten days, having previously refused the suggestion of making an alliance with Stannis Baratheon. Aegon agrees with Jon's plan, but demands he lead the attack himself.[12]

Jon wishes to let the Iron Throne believe that the invading force is simply an exiled lord attempting to retake his old seat, and he plans to write King Tommen I Baratheon for a pardon to support the ruse.[12] News of Jon and Aegon arrives in King's Landing not too much later, and Red Ronnet is intent on retaking his seat, though Tommen's small council is in doubt about his loyalty. Ser Kevan Lannister, Tommen's regent, realizes that Jon could be a dangerous threat.[13]

The Winds of Winter

Content.png
Warning
This information has thus far been released in a sample chapter for The Winds of Winter, and might therefore not be in finalized form. Keep in mind that the content as described below is still subject to change.
The Griffin, by Jroahn

Ser Addam Whitehead is among a group of men from the Weeping Town who seek out Jon at Griffin's Roost.[28] Jon's letter reaches Doran, who sends his daughter, Princess Arianne, to seek out Aegon and Jon, who calls himself the Hand of the True King.[9] Arianne learns that Jon has marched from Griffin's Roost, and that he has forbidden the sellswords of the Golden Company from raping during their invasion. Lady Mary Mertyns is skeptical of their conduct, however. Once at Griffin's Roost, Haldon informs the princess that Jon and Aegon have taken Storm's End, where Arianne is awaited.[28]

Quotes by Jon

I understand hate well enough.[7]

—Jon, to Tyrion Lannister

Let me live long enough to see the boy sit on the Iron Throne, and Varys will pay for that slight and so much more. Then we'll see who's soon forgotten.[15]

—Jon's thoughts

Death, he knew, but slow. I still have time. A year. Two years. Five. Some stone men live for ten. Time enough to cross the sea, to see Griffin's Roost again. To end the Usurper's line for good and all, and put Rhaegar's son upon the Iron Throne. Then Lord Jon Connington could die content.[15]

—Jon's thoughts

I rose too high, loved too hard, dared too much. I tried to grasp a star, overreached, and fell.[12]

—Jon's thoughts

I failed the father, but I will not fail the son.[12]

—Jon's thoughts

Quotes about Jon

He has supped on hate himself, this one. It has warmed him in the night for years.[7]

Tyrion Lannister's thoughts

We want no songs about the gallant exile. Those who die heroic deaths are long remembered, thieves and drunks and cravens soon forgotten.[15]

Varys to Jon

Send me against my uncle, and I will bring you back his head, and the head of this false dragon too.[13]

Ronnet Connington, to the small council

What victories has he ever won that we should fear him? He could have ended Robert's Rebellion at Stoney Sept. He failed. Just as the Golden Company has always failed. Some may rush to join them, aye. The realm is well rid of such fools.[13]

Mace Tyrell, to the small council

Too soon. Connington is too young, too bold, too eager for glory.[13]

Tywin Lannister, on Jon being named Hand of the King

If this is indeed Jon Connington, he will be a different man. Older, harder, more seasoned ... more dangerous.[13]

Kevan Lannister's thoughts

Arianne: What sort of man was he? Honest and honorable, venal and grasping, proud?
Daemon: Proud, for a certainty. Even arrogant. A faithful friend to Rhaegar, but prickly with others. Robert was his liege, but I've heard it said that Connington chafed at serving such a lord.[9]

Melons or maidenheads, it’s all the same to your sort. If you want it, you take it. If you should see this Lord Connington, you tell him that I knew his mother, and she would be ashamed.[28]

Family

Lord
Connington
 
Unknown
wife
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Armond
 
Unknown
wife
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Jon
 
 
 
 
Ronald
 
Unknown
wife
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Unknown
woman
 
Ronnet
 
Raymund
 
Alynne
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ronald
Storm
 


Behind the scenes

The Appendix of A Dance with Dragons lists Jon Connington as a previous lord of Storm's End. This has been confirmed to have been a mistake, and should have been "Lord of Griffin's Roost" instead.[29]

References

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 18, Tyrion V.
  2. 2.0 2.1 A Storm of Swords, Chapter 11, Jaime II.
  3. 3.0 3.1 A Storm of Swords, Chapter 24, Bran II.
  4. "The Citadel: FAQ, entry 6.2.6- Who were the different people in Meera's story?" (2007
  5. 5.0 5.1 A Storm of Swords, Chapter 8, Daenerys I.
  6. Arianne II (The Winds of Winter)
  7. 7.0 7.1 7.2 7.3 7.4 7.5 7.6 7.7 7.8 7.9 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 8, Tyrion III.
  8. A Dance with Dragons, Appendix.
  9. 9.0 9.1 9.2 9.3 9.4 The Winds of Winter, Arianne I
  10. See the Jon Connington calculation.
  11. 11.0 11.1 11.2 George R. R. Martin's A World of Ice and Fire, Jon Connington.
  12. 12.00 12.01 12.02 12.03 12.04 12.05 12.06 12.07 12.08 12.09 12.10 12.11 12.12 12.13 12.14 12.15 12.16 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 61, The Griffin Reborn.
  13. 13.00 13.01 13.02 13.03 13.04 13.05 13.06 13.07 13.08 13.09 13.10 13.11 A Dance with Dragons, Epilogue.
  14. 14.0 14.1 14.2 A Feast for Crows, Chapter 27, Jaime III.
  15. 15.00 15.01 15.02 15.03 15.04 15.05 15.06 15.07 15.08 15.09 15.10 15.11 15.12 15.13 15.14 15.15 15.16 15.17 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 24, The Lost Lord.
  16. 16.0 16.1 16.2 16.3 16.4 16.5 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 14, Tyrion IV.
  17. 17.0 17.1 17.2 17.3 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 22, Tyrion VI.
  18. So Spake Martin: Union Square Signing (July 14, 2011)
  19. Union Square Signing transcript
  20. A Storm of Swords, Chapter 67, Jaime VIII.
  21. So Spake Martin: Young Lord Connington (August 25, 2000)
  22. A Feast for Crows, Chapter 14, Brienne III.
  23. 23.0 23.1 A Storm of Swords, Chapter 29, Arya V.
  24. So Spake Martin: Knights and Lords (March 02, 2002)
  25. A Clash of Kings, Chapter 3, Tyrion I.
  26. A Feast for Crows, Chapter 24, Cersei V.
  27. 27.0 27.1 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 5, Tyrion II.
  28. 28.0 28.1 28.2 The Winds of Winter, Arianne II
  29. Westeros.org, "The ASOIAF wiki thread"