Legacy of the Storm: Season 1

Legacy of the Storm is an adaptation of the fictional events of Robert's Rebellion from A Song of Ice and Fire. Whilst the series draws from events and characters of the books and original series, it is still new in that of the conversations and scenes. The series is written by showrunner and former writer, director, and star of A Song of Ice and Fire, Jack Zimmerman. Although fans were skeptical at first of a show most already know the ending to, the first season still ran up nearly 30 million viewers every week, and blew up in November of 2018 following the critical acclaim, and later success with awards. 
== Plot ==
Legacy of the Storm is set 17 years before season one of A Song of Ice and Fire, in the year 281 AC. The realm is at peace, but many worry at the state of the worsening King, Aerys II Targaryen, who is becoming increasingly mad and paranoid. In the North, Lord Rickard Stark rules from Winterfell with his eldest son and heir by his side, Brandon Stark, as well as his only daughter, Lyanna Stark, and his youngest son, Benjen Stark. His second son, Eddard Stark, is a ward to Lord Jon Arryn in the Vale, alongside the young Lord Paramount of the Stormlands, Robert Baratheon, whilst Lord Edwyn Estermont rules as Regent, warding the young Stannis Baratheon at the same time. In Riverrun, Lord Paramount Hoster Tully rules peacefully, with his daughter Catelyn Tully betrothed to Brandon Stark, he is still looking for a potential candidate for his second daughter, Lysa. Lord Tywin Lannister rules the Westerlands from Casterly Rock, sowing riches from his mines, and searching for a good bride for his eldest son and heir, Ser Jaime Lannister, who recently gained acclaim for disbanding the Kingswood Brotherhood with Ser Arthur Dayne and Barristan Selmy of the Kingsguard. However, dissent grows between the crown and the Westerlanders ever since King Aerys wedded Prince Rhaegar to Elia Martell instead of Cersei Lannister. As such, Tywin left his office of Hand of the King and returned to Casterly Rock. However, he is unaware of the incestuous relationship between the twins, to focused on ruling to realize. Prince Rhaegar Targaryen plots to force his father to abdicate before his state takes the better of him, plunging the realm into war. He wins support of Lord Walter Whent, using a Grand Tourney at Harrenhal as a guise for Rhaegar to try and sway the Lords of Westeros. However, the King's council feasts upon the rumors of Rhaegar's betrayal, with the foreign Spymaster, Lord Varys, pushing the King to agree to attend as well. 
=== Prolouge ===
The season begins with explaining the current state of things in the Defiance of Duskendale. Duskendale had long been a important port in Blackwater Bay, but due to the growth of King's Landing, the wealth of the Darklyn's had shrunk. Lord Denys Darklyn sent a proposal to King's Landing for a charter, similar to the one granted to Dorne many years ago. However, the Hand of the King, Lord Tywin Lannister, firmly rejected the proposal. Infuriated, Lord Darklyn ceased his payment of taxes. A moon later, Lord Darklyn offered to show entry to King Aerys II to hear his proposition. Tywin advised against it, however, with rumors spreading about that it was really the golden lion of Lannister who ran the realm, King Aerys disregarded the advice of his friend, going to Duskendale with a small escort led by knight of the Kingsguard, Ser Gwayne Gaunt. However, upon arrival, the King was seized and imprisoned, and the majority of the escort was killed, including Ser Gwayne. Aerys was shoved, beat, and humiliated. Tywin raised a host of 20,000 to attack Duskendale, but Lord Darklyn declared that he would kill the King at the first sign of attack. So, Tywin surrounded Duskendale, cutting off all trade to the city. 
It has now been half a year, and still, Aerys is locked away inside of the city. Tywin declares that they will send one more raven telling them that if they don't surrender, they will be put to death after they storm the city. The following day, when there is no answer, Ser Barristan Selmy offers to go on a rescue mission, to which Tywin grants him a single day. Barristan scales the walls, disguised, and frees Aerys, carving his way, killing Ser Symon Hollard as revenge for Ser Gwayne, and escapes the city. We go forward in time to find the city taken by Tywin's host. Aerys orders every person with a drop of Darklyn blood dead. Lord Darklyn begs for mercy, but Aerys has him burned alive. Every member of House Hollard was also ordered dead. There was no discrimination between men, women, and children. However, Barristan did ask for the King to spare the young Dontos Hollard. Denys's wife, Serella, had her tongue ripped out as well as her womanly parts. She was then burned alive. Duskendale was granted to House Rykker, whilst the lands of House Hollard were revoked, and the lands and villages burned with their castle torn down. The prologue ends as they return to King's Landing, returning us to the captions as the screen fades black. King Aerys was forever changed, and the kind, eager King, was now gone, as the realm would soon find. 
=== In the Seven Kingdoms ===
It is now the 4th Moon of 281 AC, the 19th year of King Aerys II Targaryen's reign. 
==== The North ====
Lord Rickard Stark rules over the North from Winterfell, aged 38. He is just, honorable, and fair. He wields Ice as does every Stark Lord, and still grieves over the death of his wife, Lyarra Stark. His eldest son and heir, Brandon Stark, is famous throughout the North for being fierce and wild, tending to forget honor, staining the Stark name in some ways. He is 18 years of age, great with a sword, capable of even beating his father in a duel. He caused some strife recently with the Ryswells after taking the maidenhead of Lady Barbrey Ryswell, only to then be betrothed to Catelyn Tully. He also has a squire: Ethan Glover, aged 14, the youngest of Master Benton Glover's four sons. Rickard's only daughter, Lyanna, is nearly 17, and also wild, although she is honorable. She is good with a sword, and often wears one in Winterfell. She is fiercely beautiful, attracting many men, but she is betrothed to Lord Robert Baratheon of Storm's End, a good friend to her little brother, Ned. Her nickname, the "winter rose," is due to her often times wearing a blue winter rose in her hair. Rickard's second son, Eddard Stark, is currently in the Vale, a ward to Lord Jon Arryn. To view his description, go down below to The Vale. Rickard's youngest son, Benjen Stark, is just 11 years of age. Benjen is quiet, but he listens and obeys to his father. Rickard intends to leave him in Riverrun as a ward to Lord Hoster Tully following Brandon's wedding to his eldest daughter. 
Lord Rickard is hosts a feast in Winterfell. The vast majority of the Lords of the North attend, as well as a Traveling Crow of the Night's Watch named Benfrey, sharing tales and stories of battles and other times in life. Rickard reconnects with his close friends, Master Benton Glover, as well as Lords Wyman Manderly, Rickard Karstark, and Brandon Umber. Brandon Stark also restrains with sleeping with Barbrey one last time before her marriage to Lord Willem Dustin. Rickard agrees to allow Brandon, Lyanna, and Benjen to the Grand Tourney at Harrenhal with Benfrey, Lord Willam Dustin and his cousins Jon, Alaric, and Torrhen, Rickard, as well as Roger, and Roose Ryswell, Ser Wylis and Wendell Manderly, and Lord Jorah Mormont. They leave the feast with some 500 men.  
Following the beginning of the tourney, Rickard and the Northern party of some 1,400, and the Lords of the North began to move south for the marriage of Brandon and Catelyn. 
==== The Vale ====
Lord Jon Arryn rules the Vale from the Eyrie, aged 78. He is just, fair, and a great ruler, knowing the way of politics. He has had two wives, Ladies Jeyne Royce, who died some decades ago in stillbirth to a daughter, and Rowena Arryn, who died some 12 years prior in stillbirth to twin sons. Jon has no sons or daughter, and is currently looking for a wife. He has two wards, the first of which being Lord Robert Baratheon, 16 years of age and both big and handsome. He is gregarious, loving to tell stories, but he also wields a giant warhammer instead of a sword. He is lustful, but caring for those he loves. He has one child, a bastard girl named Mya Stone, who is just 1. He is currently betrothed to Lyanna Stark. The other ward is the third child of Lord Rickard Stark, Eddard Stark. He is 15, halfway to 16. He is just and honorable, caring for his duties and staying away from the brothels and activities that Robert partakes in. He is unbetrothed for the moment. He is pretty skilled with a sword, being able to hold his own against him and Robert's good friend, Jonothor Stone, a bastard son of Lord Nestor Royce, the high steward of the Vale and Master of the Gates of the Moon. Jonothor is closer to 16 than Ned, but is far more skilled with a blade. He is friendly but protective of his friends, and is much better at remaining honorable than Robert. Jon's current heir is his nephew, the 13-year-old Elbert Arryn. Elbert is a curious boy, but dutiful as much as he is honorable. However, due to the influence of Robert, he is becoming more daring and arrogant. 
Lord Jon Arryn decides to attend the Grand Tourney at Harrenhal with Robert, Ned, and Jonothor, joining with Lords Yohn Royce and Eon Hunter, making a party of some 720 men. He leaves Nestor as Regent in the Eyrie. 
==== In King's Landing ====
King Aerys II Targaryen sits the Iron Throne, ruling Westeros from King's Landing at the age of 37. He has become paranoid, and is falling into insanity, having developed an obsession with fire, seeing shadows in every corner. He refuses to even wash, or have his hair nor nails cut. His sister-wife, Queen Rhaella is 35 years of age. She is beautiful, but sad and depressed due to the many stillbirths. She never smiles except with Prince Rhaegar, but Aerys is prone to beating her and raping her, doubting her allegiance to him as her husband and King, and blaming her for the stillbirths. Their eldest son is Prince Rhaegar Targaryen, 22 years of age. He is beautiful, some say the most beautiful man in Westeros. He is kind, gentle, known to sing and play the harp in the Red Keep and with the peasants of King's Landing. However, he is obsessed with the secret prophecies of Aegon the Conqueror, The Song of Ice and Fire and The Three-Headed Dragon. He believes his children to be the three-heads, and one of them to be the Song of Ice and Fire, born to unite the Realm against the coming threat from the Far North. Due to this, he doesn't actually love his wife, Elia, merely using her to fulfil the prophecies. Rhaegar is gifted with a sword, and is famed throughout the Realm. Rhaegar's wife is Princess Elia Martell, sister to Prince Doran Martell, ruler of Dorne, and Oberyn Martell, the Red Viper, as well as the niece to Prince Lewyn Martell, a brother of the Kingsguard. She is 25 years old, having been born in Sunspear. She is beautiful, but frail and skinny, having barely survived her previous pregnancy. She is kind and gentle, and her marriage isn't necessarily one of love, but her and Rhaegar are still close. Their eldest child is Princess Rhaenys Targaryen, who is 2. She is kind and gentle, with a bright smile. She is known for having her mother's dark hair with a white streak, but also having her mother's hazel eyes. She has a black cat she named Balerion, whom she pretends is the Black Dread. Their only son is Prince Aegon Targaryen, just a few months old. Aegon is known to be rather quiet, and the sort of babe every mother wants. Unlike his sister whom he is to marry, he has both his father's platinum hair and violet eyes. Aerys and Rhaella's youngest child is Prince Viserys Targaryen, just 5 years old. He is cheerful and happy, idolizing Rhaegar. 
The current Lord Commander of the Kingsguard is Ser Gerold Hightower, who is 51 years old. He is the uncle of Lord Leyton Hightower. He is quite fierce, supervising training of his brothers and ensuring them of their duties. He also wields the ancestral Valyrian Steel sword of House Hightower, Vigilance. The most famous brother of the Kingsguard is that of Ser Arthur Dayne, aged 23. He is the elder brother of Ashara Dayne, the only handmaiden of Princess Elia Martell, and son of Lord Beric Dayne. Arthur wields the legendary sword of House Dayne, Dawn. He is great friends with Prince Rhaegar, and is the sworn sword of Prince Rhaegar. He is just and honorable, and keeps to his oaths. Ser Barristan Selmy is the next most famous of the Kingsguard, aged 45. He is the closest in skill to Arthur, and is just as just and honorable. He's been the sworn sword of King Aerys ever since he rescued him in the Defiance of Duskendale. His nephew is Lord Balon Selmy in the Stormlands. Prince Lewyn Martell is aged 48. He is the only brother at the time to wield a spear instead of a sword. He is the uncle of Princes Doran and Oberyn Martell of Dorne, and Princess Elia Martell. He is just and fair, but considers Elia above all else. He is the sworn sword of Princess Elia Martell. Ser Jonothor Darry is aged 44, and brother to Lord Lyman Darry as well as Ser Willem Darry, the Master-at-Arms of the Red Keep. Jonothor is hard-working and diligent, but is much less honorable than the others, but still loyal, tending to his duties as the sworn sword of Queen Rhaella Targaryen. Ser Oswell Whent is aged 42, brother to Lord Walter Whent of Harrenhal and cousin to Lady Shella Whent of Harrenhal. He is quiet, brave, and quite patient. He is sworn to no one. Ser Harlan Grandison died just 3 moons prior at the age of 59, meaning that a slot is open for the moment. King Aerys intends to give the slot to someone at the Grand Tourney, but keeps it secret. 
The current Small Council is one that feasts upon Aerys's paranoia, encouraging it and using it to their advantage. However, the Hand of the King, Lord Owen Merryweather, is a mediator. Whilst the others attempt to turn Aerys against Rhaegar and gain favor with the King, Owen attempts to sow peace, and keep it. He is kind, although sometimes making a fool of himself, and being quite fat at the age of 70. Despite his good intentions to keep the peace, he lacks knowledge in how to actually run a Realm, making him incompetent in his office. Grand Maester Pycelle is 65 years of age. He acts good and loyal to his King, doing his duties and fulfilling his tasks, but of course, he is secretly feeding the Kings fears and paranoia, as well as keeping track of his descent into insanity for the Citadel, as their little secret agent. The Master of Coin is Lord Qarlton Chelsted, the Lord of Bramsfort. He is 32 years of age. He is cunning and arrogant, but good at his job, making much wealth for the Throne. However, he encourages Aerys in his paranoia, and aids others in tearing Aerys apart from Rhaegar, encouraging him to get rid of Rhaegar and name Viserys his heir. The Master of Laws is Lord Symond Staunton, the Lord of Rook's Rest. He is 49 years of age. He is ambitious, greedy, and deceitful, being the main supporter of Aerys's paranoia. The Master of Ships is Lord Lucerys Velaryon, the Lord of Driftmark. He is 38 years of age and known to be a great admiral. He is ambitious and lustful, but he does not partake in making the King's paranoia worse, siding with Owen more often than not. He is also a good friend to Rhaegar. His son and heir, Monford Velaryon is at court, aged 14, but Lucerys also has a 4-year-old bastard son named Aurane Waters. The Master of Whisperers is Varys, who is in his 20's. He is a Lyseni man, with a bald head, lilac eyes and plump stomach. He is the main propeller in Aerys's paranoia, basically planting the ideas of traitors everywhere. However, he is secretly plotting to create war between Aerys and Rhaegar, as he is anti-Targaryen secretly. Lastly, the number one advisor to Aerys is Wisdom Rossart, a man somewhere in his late 40's to early 50's. He is evil and maniacal, aiding Aerys in his fire-obsessed ideas. 
Queen Rhaella Targaryen gives birth to yet another stillborn: Prince Baelor Targaryen. As a result, she is commanded to Aerys, where she is beaten. 
Rhaegar reveals his thoughts of removing his father from the Throne to Arthur, believing it would be best for the Realm to force him to abdicate, but Arthur then realizes that the Tourney at Harrenhal was actually made to happen thanks to him, meaning that those rumors are true. Rhaegar reveals that he wished to speak with those who would come about the idea, placing him on the Throne and moving his father to Dragonstone. Arthur shies from the thought of betraying his King, leaving Rhaegar to find Varys, who offers aid in the plot, but Rhaegar rejects his offer due to his distaste in Varys. He finds Lucerys down at the docks, where he reveals the same plot, but this time, Lucerys agrees with Rhaegar, intending to help. Rhaegar also reveals that he has offered his hand to Cersei Lannister, believing that Elia will die in her next pregnancy. When Lucerys questions if she doesn't, Rhaegar tells him that he would then take her anyway, as Aegon the Conqueror took two wives. 
After receiving the parties for the Tourney, the Stormlands led by good friend to Rhaegar, Lord Jon Connington, with some 1,000 men, Prince Oberyn Martell with some 800 Dornishmen, and Lord Mace Tyrell with some 1,300 men, they depart for Harrenhal, leaving Lord Merryweather as Regent for the time being, and orders to Commander Manly Stokeworth to keep a firm grip on King's Landing in the King's absence. 
King Aerys arrived with Elia and the others soon after the end of the tourney. The Lords of the Reach left back for the Reach, and the majority of the Stormlords returned to the Stormlands, but Jon Connington remained in King's Landing, ensuring things didn't get out of control on behalf of Rhaegar. 
==== In the Westerlands ====
Lord Tywin Lannister rules the Westerlands from Casterly Rock at the age of 39. He is an ambitious man who seeks to further the Lannister name. He is a great military leader as well as ruler, despite his lack for honor. He is ruthless and unafraid to bloody his hands to get what he wants. His wife, Joanna Lannister, died 8 years prior giving birth to Tyrion Lannister, who is a secret Targaryen bastard through his father, Aerys, although that is only know due to the main show. His eldest child is a only daughter, Cersei Lannister, who is 16 years of age. She is cunning and arrogant, not caring for anyone other than those she cares about, which is really just her and Jaime. Tywin intends to wed her to Prince Rhaegar Targaryen after the likely death of Princess Elia Martell in her next pregnancy. Her twin brother is Ser Jaime Lannister, who gained fame just a year prior when he helped Arthur Dayne and Barristan Selmy dispatch of the Kingswood Brotherhood. He is incredibly good with a sword, so much so he impressed Arthur and Barristan, being knighted by Arthur, whom he idolizes. Jaime cares a great deal about his family, Tywin because he is Jaime's father, Cersei because of their incestuous relationship, and Tyrion because he is his little brother. However, for others, he can appear arrogant and naive. Tywin intends to marry him to Lysa Tully. Tyrion is young, and a dwarf with a disfigured face. Ashamed, Tywin hides him away in Casterly Rock, blaming him for the death of his wife. However, Tyrion is a curious boy, loving books and the histories, particularly dragons. He is very close with Jaime, who keeps him looped in, however Cersei hates him, blaming him for the death of their mother. 
Lord Tywin Lannister refuses to attend the Grand Tourney at Harrenhal once more due to his falling out with King Aerys, instead opting to send Jaime with the other Westerland Lords who are going. From there, Jaime would go to Riverrun to attend the wedding of Brandon Stark and Catelyn Tully, then return to Casterly Rock with Lord Hoster Tully and Lysa to be married. Tywin later reveals his plan to marry Cersei to Rhaegar after Elia's death to Cersei, making her happy once more to marry the man of her dreams. She informs Jaime, who feels jealous that Rhaegar will get to have her, whilst he will be stuck in Casterly Rock with their father. However, Cersei believes that she could make him offer Jaime a position, but Jaime leaves disgruntled. 
Cersei reveals her own plan to Jaime, that he should join the Kingsguard. However, Jaime doubts the likelihood of their father accepting, nor is he sure of that as the life he wishes to live. But Cersei then manipulates him into thinking of doing it for her, rather than thinking about himself, before having sex. 
After receiving the attending Lords from the south of Casterly Rock, Jaime and his closest friend, Ser Addam Marbrand, ride off with a party of 600 to join with the other 800 at the Golden Tooth to ride for Harrenhal. 
Tywin was furious after hearing that Jaime has been sworn to the Kingsguard, no one daring to speak to him save Kevan Lannister. Cersei, however, was pleased, believing he did it for her. 
Following the end of the tourney, Tywin, disgruntled, seeked for a way to move on. When Cersei asked her father when she would marry Rhaegar, Tywin revealed that he didn't believe she would be marrying him anymore. Due to his poor political choices, and his lack of communication in compliance with Tywin. Tywin was also unsure he could marry her to him after Aerys named Jaime to the Kingsguard. Cersei fell into a depression, declaring her hate for her father and for the King for not allowing her to marry Rhaegar. 
==== In the Riverlands ====
Lord Hoster Tully rules the Riverlands from Riverrun, aged 42. He is a smart diplomat, who cares for his children, but understands his duties as Lord of the Riverlands. He is unmarried following the death of Lady Minisa Whent 4 years prior to a stillborn son, still grieving over her loss. His eldest child is Lady Catelyn Tully, aged 16. She is dutiful and caring, although she can be self-centered at times, thinking about her and her family before others. She is betrothed to Brandon Stark, heir to Winterfell. Hoster's second daughter is Lysa Tully, aged 15. She is shy around most save those she's comfortable around. She is loving and clingy, but also erratic. Hoster is planning to marry her to Jaime Lannister. His only son and heir, Edmure Tully, is 8 years old. Edmure is compassionate and goofy, viewing Petyr Baelish as an elder brother. Hoster's brother, Ser Brynden Tully, is the Castellan of Riverrun. Despite that, ever since he refused to marry, the brothers have had a strained relationship. However, Brynden remains close with the kids, even Petyr. Petyr Baelish is the ward of Hoster and the son of Lord Corwyn Baelish in the Vale. Petyr is cunning and clever, but has a crush on Catelyn. However, Lysa has a crush on Petyr. Despite this, Petyr remains focused on Catelyn. 
Lord Hoster holds a feast at Riverrun, hosting Lords Tytos Blackwood and Jonos Bracken to try and remedy their anger in his betrothal of Catelyn and Brandon instead of their candidates. Brynden explains to Edmure that this is just an excuse for them to indulge in their rivalry. During the feast, Petyr dances with Cat 6 times before going off to the Godswood to watch the stars. Petyr attempts to kiss her there, but she pushes him away, laughing as she returns to the feast. Petyr proceeds to get drunk and pass out on a table. Brynden carries him to bed, but Lysa sneaks in later, giving Petyr her maidenhead, although he believes it to be Catelyn. Lysa does nothing to tell him otherwise. 
Following the arrival of the Rivermen attendees, the next to arrive are the Westerlanders. The next to come is the Valemen, then the Northerners, and finally the King's party with the Crownlands, the Reach, the Stormlands, and Dorne. After reunions, everyone is formally received by Lord Walter Whent who gives a speech about his House and Harrenhal, which comes to be known as the "On Blackest Wings" speech. He speaks of his House's history, the history of Harrenhal, his daughter whom the tourney is for: Sarra Whent, and finally, the great honor it is for them to host the tourney. During the speech, Rhaegar finds that he can't take his eyes off of Lyanna, who stands by her brothers and Robert, despite standing next to Elia. Lord Whent then hands it over to Rhaegar to sing a song with his harp. Despite being supposed to play "The King Without Courage" to represent himself, however, with his mind to unable to go anywhere else, in front of all the Lords in the full Hall of a Hundred Hearth, he looks down Lyanna before singing "The Winter Maid," a song from the North, shocking everyone. The song makes the majority of the women there cry, including Lyanna, although she feels a tension with Rhaegar, especially when he returns to his wife's side, eyeing her. Despite taking note of it, Robert doesn't do anything, thinking it as a onetime thing. The King then comes forward, addressing the crowd that he is the King, and that he will not be undermined, no matter who you are, notably staring at Rhaegar quickly. Following that, he announces the next brother of the Kingsguard: Ser Jaime Lannister. The crowd erupts as Jaime steps forward, shocked, unable to do speak up and deny the role as his father would want him to do, so he walks forward. The act is one that pains Rhaegar, who explains to Jon that Tywin won't like this, and will take it as a slight, causing issues in his own plans. Jaime kneels before the Lord Commander of the Kingsguard, Ser Gerold Hightower, his new brothers looking on as the King watches, a smirk on his face, and thousands watching behind him. Gerold and Jaime go through the vows, all of which Jaime agrees to. In the end, Gerold charges Jaime to rise as a brother of the Kingsguard, a sworn protector of the King and the Iron Throne, and he does so, turning to face the crowd that was cheering him on. Jaime smiles, feeling their love in that moment. As the crowd begins to empty the hall, he's joined by Arthur, who congratulates him, believing he will achieve great things in the White Cloak. 
That night, a great feast was held in that hall, Aerys, Rhaegar, and Elia sitting at the high table with Lord Walter, his four sons and his daughter. Lord Whent requested a song from Rhaegar for his daughter early into the night, which he agreed to, singing "Let Me Drink Your Beauty." Robert drank with Richard Lonmouth, Brandon Stark, Ethan Glover, Elbert Arryn, and Jonothor Stone. Rhaegar attempted to join their conversation late into the night, but Robert jested at him, which nearly caused Arthur to draw his blade, causing Robert to rise in retaliation, but Rhaegar cooled the room, going on his way. Benjen later made a remark at Lyanna for crying at Rhaegar's song, causing laughter from their table, even Ned. Lyanna then dumped a cup of wine on Benjen, making them roar even louder, and during said laughter, Rhaegar eyed Lyanna intimately and curiously, causing her to blush. During the dancing, Rhaegar danced with Elia before dancing with Ashara, asking her to keep her ears open for him. During their dance, he noticed Ned staring from his table next to Robert and Brandon. He then handed her off to Prince Lewyn before moving to their table, suggesting Ned dance with her. For the first time the whole night, Robert was quiet in the presence of Rhaegar, watching him fiercely. After Rhaegar matched Robert's stare, Brandon broke the tension by agreeing with Rhaegar, before realizing just how beautiful Ashara was, watching her dance with Jon Connington. After arguing with Ned for a solid couple of minutes, Brandon finally went over to her, interrupting her dance with Ser Barristan, pulling her away from the knight, leaving him unnerved and sad, returning to the table that was celebrating Jaime's appointment, Jaime himself predicting he'd win the joust. Brandon asks Ashara to dance with Ned, although the two share a passionate conversation before Brandon calls Ned over, handing her over for the two to dance. Brandon returns to his table, sitting next to Robert as the two get the table to join in in cheering him on as he nervously dances with her. Rhaegar watches from high table, pleased. Aerys retired to his chambers soon after, summoning Jaime. He then ordered him back to King's Landing at first light to protect the Queen and young Prince, souring the night for Jaime. Barristan sculked through the night over Ashara, whilst the night soon turned into a show for Rhaegar to sing songs for the crowd. Ashara was pulled away from the crowd by Brandon, with Robert cheering him on quietly. Ned would also leave at the same time, going to Jon Arryn's room to seek advice on the life they live, and how to live it best. However, Barristan comes to the conclusion that Ned took Ashara away, coming to hold a grudge against him for it. Robert later takes Lyanna away from the crowd, but she has to pry her eyes away from Rhaegar. After kissing her, then attempting to advance on her, she pushes him away, leaving him, declaring that she isn't ready, leaving him sad and disappointed, returning to depleting hall to drink himself away. 
The next day, Jaime dawned his white-plated armor and white cloak, at first light. Arthur and Rhaegar rode him out of Harrenhal. Before leaving, Rhaegar admitted that he liked Jaime, believing that he would do great things. He then tasked Jaime with keeping his family safe, which the eager Jaime accepted, smiling. Rhaegar, smiling just as big, wished Jaime well, relaying that the next time they see each other they will share a day with Arthur and tell stories and train in the courtyard. 
Later, the 15-year-old Howland Reed returns from the Isle of Faces to attend the tourney. However, whilst crossing a field, he is attacked by three squires. Lyanna comes forward to his rescue, ordering them away, and fending them off when they refused, sending them running away. She helped him to her tent, where she introduced him to her brothers, who get him to admit who he is. He explains that in search to gain more wisdom in experience he sailed down past the Twins and down the Red Fork, staying at the Isle of Faces in search of the Children of the Forest, where he stayed all winter. Brandon laughs at him and leaves to train with Robert, pulling Ned away with him. After Benjen runs after them, Lyanna asks for him to tell her what happened. He reveals that he's a Green Seer, and although there were no Children there, the presence of the Old Gods is strong there, and he could see so much through his Greensight. The tale peaks Lyanna's interest, and she becomes good friends with Howland. 
The following day, the seven-sided melee take place. Robert is selected as a commander, and he ensures that both Brandon and Ned made his team, then Jonothor. By the end of the melee, only their team remained. Lord Whent named Lord Robert Baratheon the champion of the melee, announcing that the joust would begin in two days, his daughter being the Queen of Love and Beauty, her title defended by her brothers and her uncle. 
The quantity of jousters was enormous, with hundreds filing in. However, amongst them was a mystery knight, dawning a laughing tree as their emblem. This knight only caused Aerys's paranoia to arise, believing them to be one of his enemies. Rhaegar unhorsed his first opponent, Ser Boros Blount easily, and would go on to unhorse his next 8 opponents easily over the next 4 days. However, the fifth day would be the final day, showcasing the quarterfinals to the final tilt, and on the last day, the Laughing Knight was gone, even after making it so far. As such, their opponent, Ser Arthur Dayne automatically advanced. The other three tilts were Prince Rhaegar against Brandon Stark, Ser Oswell Whent against Prince Oberyn Martell (who defeated Robert), and Ser Barristan Selmy against Lord Yohn Royce. Rhaegar defeated Brandon, Oberyn defeated Oswell, taking the title from Sarra Whent, and Barristan defeated Bronze Yohn. The semifinals were Rhaegar against Arthur and Barristan against Oberyn. Rhaegar defeated Arthur in just two turns, making the crowd roar in chants so loud that they could be heard leagues away. Barristan defeated Prince Oberyn in five turns, taking the title of love and beauty. At the two-hour break between then and the final tilt, they feasted for lunch, the combatants eating in their tents. Many gave their luck to both combatants. Elia spent a while with Rhaegar, giving him her love. When the time came, Rhaegar dawned his elaborate Targaryen armor of black and red, his helmet black with a three-headed red dragon atop it. Opposite him was Barristan the Bold in his white-plated Kingsguard armor with some gold outlines and his white cloak. The crowd was roaring until they were heralded. Prince Rhaegar Targaryen, Prince of Dragonstone, heir to the Iron Throne, against Ser Barristan the Bold of House Selmy, knight of the Kingsguard. The crowd was so quiet you could hear the wind blow, and the only noise was that of Rhaegar and Barristan, going back and forth. They took 8 turns before Rhaegar finally snapped his lance against Barristan's breastplate, making him fly off his horse, crashing into the ground. He sustained no injuries, but the crowd roared for Rhaegar, cheering for the Dragon Prince. King Aerys didn't share their joy, muttering under his breath, believing his son's glory to be his by rights. However, when Rhaegar stopped, removing his helmet to free his hair in the wind, handing it to his squire, Richard Lonmouth, tossing his lance to the ground. Richard handed him a new one, and the crowd quieted, smiling as they expected him to name his wife the Queen of Love and Beauty. However, the Starks and Robert became curious when Richard slid a crown of blue winter roses down Rhaegar's lance. He turned, walking down the lines of people. Princess Elia sat in front of the King, next to Prince Oberyn and most of the Kingsguard. When Rhaegar rode his horse by Elia, not even batting his wife an eye, all the smiles died, with only the trotting of the horse in the sand to be heard as he tracked his way down to the other end of the crowd, his eyes locked on Lyanna. There he stopped in front of her. He shifted, turning his horse to face the crowds, where he announced that he named the Lady Lyanna Stark the Queen of Love and Beauty, sliding the crown of roses into her lap, a charming smile on his face and his eyes focused on her as she sat there in awe, her brothers shocked, Robert curiously furious. Rhaegar paid them no mind as he turned and rode off. 
Over the coming days, Brandon befriended Kyle Royce, Jeffory Mallister, and Jonothor Stone. Over the next two to three days, everyone left. Lyanna would talk to only one person about her crowning, Howland. She would explain to him how she's entranced with Rhaegar, but supposed to marry Robert. The Starks, save Ned, and the Northmen were to ride to Riverrun, where they would await the attendees of Brandon and Catelyn's marriage. Ned would accompany Robert, Jon, and the others to the border between the Riverlands and the Vale, then head to Riverrun with Robert. However, Jonothor instead chose to go with Brandon to Riverrun immediately, which Jon Arryn allowed. King Aerys left quickly, leaving Rhaegar at Harrenhal with Arthur Dayne and Oswell Whent. Rhaegar would send Elia back to King's Landing with his father, meeting once before her departure, where Rhaegar explained that he had plans, but that he's had a dream, a new dream. He revealed to Elia that before their departure for the tourney, he had a dream about Lyanna, the she-wolf who would encapsulate the Dragon Prince and bring about The Song of Ice and Fire. Elia, despite being greatly saddened by Rhaegar, expressed her love to Rhaegar, who for one of the only times in his life, showed his true self, explaining that he can't let anything get in the way of the prophecies. And for the first time, Elia spoke the truth to Rhaegar: that he loves the prophecies more than himself or those himself, and that he's just as obsessed with them as his father is with fire, and that they would be the death of him. Elia would leave soon after with the royal party. Later that night, Rhaegar would secretly meet with Lyanna before her departure. The two flirted very much, and Rhaegar revealed that he intends to throw away his plans to make her fall in love with him. Rhaegar would quickly deduce that she was the Laughing Knight. The two stayed up for a while, laughing and flirting until they devised a plan: the plan that would change everything. 
The Northmen-Riverlander party and the Valemen departed at first light, Rhaegar watching from the Tower of Ghosts, the morning sun reflecting through his hair. Around midday, Lyanna left the party, not ten leagues away from Harrenhal, wishing to see the nature. After an argument with Brandon, he reluctantly agreed, originally leaving her with 20, but she only accepted 10. Howland wished to remain with Lyanna, but she made him go with Brandon. Not long after midday, Rhaegar departed from Harrenhal with Arthur, Oswell, Richard Lonmouth and 3 other hedge knights of renown with a sword. 
Brandon arrived at Riverrun with his party of Northmen and Riverlanders as well as Benjen. Catelyn would quickly succumb to the charm and beauty of Brandon, completely avoiding Petyr. On Brandon's second day there, Petyr decided that he would challenge him in the eve for Catelyn's hand, telling Lysa before anyone. Lysa would then hesitantly inform Catelyn right before as Petyr was preparing. Catelyn would rush to the courtyard where Brandon was training with Jonothor, Elbert, Jeffory Mallister, and Kyle Royce. Petyr was dressed in a breastplate, helmet, and was holding a sword as he walked towards Brandon. Catelyn tried to stop Petyr before he caught Brandon's attention, but he pushed her aside, declaring his love for her once again. Lysa walked, sad but worried, tears falling down her cheeks as Petyr called Brandon out, challenging him to a duel for Catelyn's hand in marriage. Brandon laughed for nearly half a minute before agreeing. Cat begged and pleaded with Brandon to spare him. Brandon offered Petyr a chance to yield, but Petyr refused. Cat had no choice but to step aside and watch. Petyr swung three times, missing each as Brandon was toying with him, offering him another chance to yield. In the end, Brandon struck Petyr 7 times, all of them blows that could be considered mortal. He broke his helmet in half, striking a dangerous blow across Petyr's face. Cat pleaded with Brandon to spare Petyr, but he disregarded her, preparing to kill Petyr. That's when the Blackfish stopped him, rushing Petyr off. Lysa following after them, clearly disassociating. 
Lyanna sat in her tent, after once again informing her men that they were waiting there until she said otherwise. The sun fell quickly, and that's when the Northern men were killed quickly by Rhaegar's party. Lyanna greeted him nervously, but that's when they shared their first kiss. Arthur beckoned Rhaegar on before they were seen. However, a group of lowborn boys witnessed them taking her away, reporting back to Lord Varion Roote, who would then send ravens out throughout the Realm that Prince Rhaegar Targaryen kidnapped Lyanna Stark. 
Having been going at a slow pace, having many stays and feasts throughout the road, Lord Jon Arryn held Ned and Robert back, insisting they return to the Eyrie to rethink and establish a firm holding for sending ravens. Robert insisted upon hunting down Rhaegar, but Jon managed to talk him down, but Ned was lost, confused, depressed, but in agreeance with Robert. Jon managed to convince them to reluctantly agree to return to the Eyrie to send ravens out to other Lords. 
Brandon would immediately send Benjen north with some Northmen to get to their father's party of Northerners, that just passed through the Twins. However, before Lord Tully or anyone else could speak to him, he formed a group: himself, Jonothor Stone, Elbert Arryn, Ethan Glover, Kyle Royce, and Jeffory Mallister. They left Riverrun as soon as the raven came, heading south to King's Landing. 
== Episodes ==
Episode	Title 	Rating	Air Date
1 	Second of His Name 	10/10 	June 8th, 2018
2 	The Foretelling 	9.7/10	June 15th, 2018
3 	The Faulters of Men 	9.7/10	June 22nd, 2018
4 	The Dragon Prince 	9.9/10	June 29th, 2018
5 	The Proud Stag and the Humble Wolf	10/10 	July 6th, 2018
6 	The Spider 	9.9/10	July 13th, 2018
7 	Words Are Wind 	9.9/10	July 20th, 2018
8 	On Blackest Wings 	10/10 	July 27th, 2018
9 	Queen of Love and Beauty 	10/10 	August 3rd, 2018
10 	The She-Wolf and the Dragon Prince	10/10 	August 10th, 2018
== Central Characters ==
* Eddard Stark
* Lord Robert Baratheon
* Brandon Stark
* Lyanna Stark
* Benjen Stark
* Prince Rhaegar Targaryen
* Jonothor Stone
* King Aerys II Targaryen
* Catelyn Tully
* Lysa Tully
* Petyr Baelish
* Lord Hoster Tully
* Ser Brynden Tully
* Lord Jon Arryn
* Lord Tywin Lannister
* Ser Jaime Lannister
* Cersei Lannister
* Ser Arthur Dayne
* Ser Barristan Selmy
* Princess Elia Martell
* Ashara Dayne
== Awards ==
Best Series - (Nominated) - 2018
Best Cinematography - (Won) - 2018
Best Lead Actor - Armie Hammer/Rhaegar Targaryen (Won) - 2018
Best Lead Actor - Luke Hemsworth/Brandon Stark (Nominated) - 2018
Best Supporting Actor - Jason Isaacs/Aerys II Targaryen (Won) - 2018
Best Supporting Actor - Robert Pattinson/Arthur Dayne (Nominated) - 2018
Best Lead Actress - Rachel Brosnahan/Lyanna Stark (Won) - 2018
Best Supporting Actress - Eiza Gonzalez/Elia Martell (Nominated) - 2018
Best Supporting Actress - Gillian Jacobs/Rhaella Targaryen (Nominated) - 2018
Best Supporting Actress - Caitlyn Blackwood/Catelyn Tully (Nominated) - 2018
Best Director - Emerald Fennell (Nominated) - 2018
Best Writer - Jack Zimmerman (Won) - 2018
Best Composer - Ramin Djawadi (Won) - 2018