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Trials and Tribulations of the Oathkeeper by DeadlyMaelstrom711

 TV » Game of Thrones Rated: M, English, Drama & Romance, [OC, Sansa S.] Daenerys T., Jon S., Words: 859k+, Favs: 1k+, Follows: 1k+, Published: Apr 16, 2018 Updated: Feb 11, 2020 2,418Chapter 179: The Golden Age of House Baratheon

YEAR 311 AC

At King's Landing…

It was a calm, gentle summer morning. After the War for Westeros and Second Long Night came to an end more than six years ago, no other serious major conflicts have arisen to threaten the delicate balance. As the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros transitioned into a new era of peace and stability during the revolution, an array of reforms were introduced to further advance the nation as promised by the ruling royal House Baratheon of King's Landing—socially, culturally, economically, and politically if possible. Gone was the primogeniture male-dominant inheritance rights; taking an example of Rhoynish custom, firstborn children of noble or royal birth would now be able to inherit their lord father's or lady mother's lands, wealth and titles regardless of their gender. Progress was made since then, albeit one step at a time. After all, change does not transform itself overnight.

Of the many regions in Westeros, the capital city of King's Landing itself had undergone an industrial revolution since the final battle itself with the creation of four districts: the first was the unionization of the many customs squares into a single-market; the second was the establishment of the city's first main industrial center; the third was renovating the houses and mansions into a more modernized residential district – life expectancy increased due to the newly designed sewers, access to clean water and health care treatment, which also saw the city's population boost from 500,000 to 1,000,000 people; and lastly the fourth oversaw the first school district in King's Landing, providing many educational opportunities for both rich and poor, nobles and commoners alike if sponsored by a noble patron. The largest center of learning, the University of King's Landing, attracted many students from across the nation.

Nearby, up Aegon's High Hill within the repaired Red Keep, a group of little children was seen playing within the palace gardens.

*CLACK, CLACK, CLACK!*

*TAP, TAP, TAP!*

"Easy now. Be sure to not get too carried away," Olyvar called out. In the years that followed, the Frey Kingsguard had matured into a capable master-at-arms for the royal family; his hair shaven and beard grown out, Olyvar had taken on new responsibilities of his own: training the male royal children. Where the father once trained him, he, in turn, vowed to train the sons in the art of combat. "Hey! Don't swing your swords wildly like that! Aim low. Keep those shields up! Don't expose your weak spot to your opponent!"

*CLACK, CLACK, CLACK!*

*TAP, TAP, TAP!*

Holding wooden swords their right hand and a small shield wrapped around their left arms, stood Prince Lyonel Baratheon—now 10 years old—and his younger 7-year-old brother Prince Torrhen. Off to the side watching the two boys spar was their other brother, Prince Rickard, who was now 6 years old; along with the family's newest member, 3-year-old Prince Orys—named after House Baratheon's founder. Even though Rickard inherited the classic Baratheon traits, as he grew up his noticeable feature was he had his mother's face and even had strands of auburn hair.

Lyonel and Torrhen continued their sparring session; the elder Baratheon child raised his shield, easily causing his brother's wooden sword to bounce off. Although Torrhen was younger and in need of more practice himself, his swings were rather wild and easy to predict. Lyonel, meanwhile, appeared to have the natural talent for fighting and easily countered with precise swings of his own before smacking his wooden sword at Torrhen's ankles, causing the younger Baratheon to yelp and fall to his knees before being pushed back.

"Very good," Olyvar congratulated. "Give him another go, Prince Lyonel."

Torrhen frowned sadly. "No fair! No matter how hard I try, I still can't beat you!" he whined.

Lyonel merely brushed off his brother's complaints and laughed. Being the oldest, he was physically stronger than him. But despite his streak of 8 wins and 0 losses and the occasional sibling rivalry between each of them, neither of the children held a deep grudge against the other for any sort of wrongdoing. Being half-Stark themselves and because of their upbringing, they were always taught to look after each other as a pack, love each other and lend a helping hand. Lyonel walked over and helped Torrhen to his feet, brushing dirt off his shoulders and held the side of his face in his hand.

"Keep your shield up or I'll ring your head like a bell," Lyonel said, ruffling his brother's hair.

Torrhen meekly nodded and the two began sparring again.

*CLACK, CLACK, CLACK!*

*TAP, TAP, TAP!*

"Hit 'em, big brother!" Rickard exclaimed, unsure who to root for.

Orys in the meantime remained rather oblivious and continued crushing any insect he could find with a rock; he showed little interest in his brother's training sessions—not that the youngest son found it fascinating or anything, but rather he was still too young to understand the purpose of it.

Torrhen was panting by the time he relentlessly swung again but Lyonel deflected the strike again. Gritting his teeth with frustration, he moved forward – which Lyonel knew would happen and stuck his leg out to trip Torrhen, sending him stumbling down into the dirt. Sweating, Torrhen shook his head.

"Give it another go, Prince Torrhen," Olyvar instructed.

The boy sighed and got back up, wooden sword in hand and shield raised. But just as the Baratheon brothers were about to engage in another round, the sound of hooves and neighing broke their concentration.

"Ah! Not her again!" they complained.

Galloping into the gardens on a white stallion with her long hair flowing in the breeze, Princess Cassana rode around her brothers. Moving with elegance and grace, she seemingly had been typically portrayed as the perfect daughter, the perfect Princess, the perfect girl with little to no flaws. She was just as beautiful as her mother. Already a lady by the time she was 4, Cassana brought smiles and laughter to those wherever she went; but although mature for her age than her twin brother, she would sometimes yearn for the sense of adventure in her heart.

"Cassie!" Torrhen whined.

"You're always showing off! Stop it!" Lyonel exclaimed.

"Hi, big sister," Rickard greeted.

"Sishta," Orys greeted as best a boy his age could muster.

Ignoring her brother's complaints, Cassana rolled her eyes as she slowly rode her stallion down to a nearby servant who approached and gripped the reins to allow her to slide off the saddle, landing on her feet with cat-like reflexes. Donning a beautiful dress of yellow and blue, the Princess tossed her hair back and approached her brothers.

"Ah! Good morning, Princess," Olyvar greeted.

"Good morning, Ser Olyvar," Cassana curtsied.

"Would you go away? We're sparring!" Torrhen continued complaining. "You're going to Riverrun soon!"

"And who are you going to spar with when Lyonel goes off to Winterfell next week?" she countered.

Torrhen glanced at his feet dejectedly. In one week, the elder twins would once more leave home to see more of the world; Daveth and Sansa had been in discussion about the matter of fostering their children to other lords for quite some time, but eventually, the two compromised as to where to send Lyonel and Cassana; sending a raven to the North and Riverlands, both Lord Edmure Tully and Lord Robb Stark had agreed to foster the children. It is seen as an honorable and common tradition among the Westerosi nobility as it frequently results in closer ties and sometimes alliances being formed between noble houses from different sides of the continent. While House Tully would foster Cassana at Riverrun, Lyonel was to be taken in by House Stark at Winterfell. Despite the long distance from home, Daveth and Sansa reassured their eldest children that this would be a learning experience for them, and they would be in good hands as they would be spending time with their relatives while they furthered their education; they could even make new friends their age.

"I don't know," Torrhen finally answered.

"Now, now try not to look so down, little brother. You'll find someone to hone your skills. Just be a bit more patient. Okay?" she turns her attention to her twin. "Lyonel, you know that mother and father hate it when you run off like this. They've been asking for you all day."

"Eh, you know I hate the constant lectures Grand Maester Samwell gives, Cass. It's boring," Lyonel brushed her off.

"That's not why I came here to get you. Did you forget again? You know that today is a rather important moment. Your presence is needed in the throne room."

"Why? Are a bunch of lords going to talk our ears off again?"

Rickard and Oyrs laughed. Cassana, however, was less than amused. "No, brother," she said rather sternly. "You're set to receive your first appointment. This ceremonial banquet is about you, and we're already late enough as it is. Don't you remember what happened last time father got so upset with you?"

Hearing that, all color seemingly drained from Lyonel's face and the boy began to sweat nervously. Last time he ditched a ceremony was two years ago when he decided he'd rather goof around with his pet dogs until Daveth exploded with fury, harshly reprimanding him with scolding words or disciplining him by spanking him with a paddle. His body shook at the flashback. By the Gods, he could still hear his father's words and feel the wood roughly hitting his buttocks until both cheeks turned bright red. Lyonel loved his father and mother, and the last thing he wanted to do since then was to disappoint them again.

Dropping their wooden swords and shields in a beat, the children immediately gathered their belongings and rushed to the throne room with Olyvar acting as their escort. As they hurried their way through the gardens back into the Red Keep via the rear entrance. Everyone was getting closer to the throne room where Lyonel could hear the nobility conversing with one another. Judging by the loud volume, the festivities had already begun. By the time they got to the door, the elder Prince's body was already shaking like a leaf.

"I'm done for. Father's going to kill me," he said with dread.

Cassana, despite being stern, was sympathetic to her twin and placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "No, he won't, brother. Father is not going to kill you. I'm sure mother will understand that it was a simple mistake. Completely unintentional. No harm was done, see? Now come on. They're waiting for us," she motions.

Lyonel breathed in and out and pushed the door open. The throne room was lively with each of the assembled lords and ladies from across Westeros for this important event; the children held each other's hands so they wouldn't get lost in the crowd as Olyvar gently pushed his way past the nobility as Lyonel, Cassana, Torrhen, Rickard, and Orys kept pace with the Kingsguard knight. Food and refreshments were being served by the castle's staff, banners from different houses were hung from the walls. As they neared the throne, they could see their mother already in conversation with Myranda Royce, their new aunt who recently married their paternal uncle Lord Gendry last month. Thankfully, their father wasn't anywhere to be seen yet. Perhaps they made it on time? No, there he was conversing with Lord Tyrion! Maybe he hadn't seen them yet? People were talking so loud neither could hear what the other was saying.

"And I tell them when I heard he had taken up with a commoner, I was scandalized. Just scandalized, Your Grace! Oh, you should have seen the look on Lady Waynwood's face. She was furious with him!" Myranda retold the story with a smile.

"Men do stupid things for women. They're easily manipulated. But in a way, I suppose there is a sense of romance between them – like the ballad between Prince Duncan the Small and Jenny of Oldstones," Sansa said. Much to the surprise of many, despite having five children and the passing of time, the Wolf Queen was seeming unaffected by aging and was just as beautiful as ever—no wrinkles, no gray in her hair, no excess body fat… nothing! She still retained her slender figure and smooth auburn hair. The absolute pinnacle of beauty.

"I know, I know! I pray he gets the pox. But still must be sorry for the girl to elope with a Waynwood of all people. I mean, how else to explain why all the Waynwood men are horse-faced? Thankfully I never wed one of them; I would have made him swear a vow to don his helm whenever he wished to fuck me and keep the visor closed."

Sansa repressed a blush at the remark yet maintained perfect composure. She is only teasing, but do you have to be so… crude, Lady Royce? she thought perceptively.

"Ahhh, but at least I landed a Baratheon," Myranda grinned wickedly. "I heard so many rumors about the men of that house I had to find out for myself."

"Rumor? What rumor?"

"I fear I must apologize to you, Your Grace. You will think me a dreadful slut after hearing what I have to say, I know," she winked suggestively. "Rumor has it that the men of House Baratheon are… quite skilled not only on the battlefield but also in the art of lovemaking. Or maybe they are by nature so very… healthy. I mean, you and His Grace popped out five children I was just dying to know what it felt like firsthand, so I had to bed my Lord Gendry before we were wed. But before I knew it, he was fucking me so much all night that by morning I could hardly walk. I see now the stories the maidens tell of Baratheon men endurance are not exaggerated. It was amazing. They know how to hit all the right spots."

She's trying to make me blush. No, I will not give you the satisfaction, Lady Royce. Keep such vulgar thoughts to yourself, Sansa realized. She cleared her throat.

Myranda noticed. "So… how is your husband's performance in the bedroom? Did you get naked? Does he curl your toes? Make you sing? Does he flip you ass over tits and hammer you like a bent nail?" she pressed.

Sansa's eyes widened with dismay. "Lady Royce!" she hissed quietly to avoid attracting any unwanted attention, her face now turning a bright shade of pink.

"Ooh, look at that blush. He's that good, huh?"

"I believe this conversation is over. Good day, my lady," the Wolf Queen quickly left the conversation, ignoring Myranda's laughter behind her. By the Gods, why must she have been permitted entry into such an important ceremony if she was going to speak to me like that?! Sansa took a moment to collect her wits and rid her thoughts. This was an important day for her eldest son, after all.

"Mother?" a voice called out to her.

Sansa turned to see Lyonel, Cassana, Torrhen, Rickard, and Orys had made their way through the crowd towards her. Their presence made her smile and she almost forgot about the conversation she had with Myranda. "Ah, there you are, my darling children," she hugged them all with as much motherly warmth and affection. She turned to Olyvar. "Thank you for ensuring they arrive safely, Ser Olyvar. You are dismissed. Please feel free to at least enjoy yourself with some food and drink once in a while. Entertainment will commence shortly."

"Understood, Your Grace. I'll try," he said before joining the rest of his brothers- and sisters-in-arms. Since the death of Ser Lucius, there had been another vacancy in the Kingsguard. Within a few months, the vacancy was filled with the recruitment of Ser Dramen Chaffton, a knight from Oldtown in service of House Hightower.

Now alone with her five children, Sansa looked at her eldest son. "Where have you been? How many times do I have to tell to never pull a stunt like that? You had me worried sick," she scolded.

Lyonel looked a bit hurt. "I'm… I'm sorry, mother," he apologized.

The Wolf Queen ruffled his hair. "You are forgiven, sweetheart. Just… don't do that again. Please?" she sighed. "Now, Lyonel, do you understand specifically why your father and I said your presence is required today?"

Lyonel shook his head no.

"My son, you were just named Prince of Dragonstone. You have now been given a position of responsibility which you will undertake in three years." Sansa smiled and placed a hand on his back. "I suggest you go over there and thank your father."

Nodding, Lyonel obediently walked towards Daveth. Still, the youth was rather nervous about what his father might say to him. The Young Stag had finished his talks with his uncle and Hand of the King, Tyrion Lannister. Folding his arms, Daveth recognized the pattern of small footsteps creeping up behind him. He knew it belonged to his eldest son and heir. Having ruled the Seven Kingdoms for more than thirteen years, Daveth's black hair grew long, was slicked back and had small distinctive gray streaks despite being only 30 years old and his beard was close-cropped. He wore a black formal tunic with an asymmetrically cut collar and a sweeping crimson regal sash like his grandfather Lord Tywin. To Lyonel, it made his father look more intimidating to a 10-year-old boy.

"You're late again, my son," Daveth said with a low, deep tone.

"I know. I'm sorry, father. It won't happen again," Lyonel replied; his siblings soon caught up with him.

"See to it that it does not."

Cassana stepped forward and curtsied. "Father, the fault is mine," she defended her twin. "I searched everywhere for my brother as best as I could, but not fast enough and so I am responsible for such a blunder."

"Hmm. Responsible. Lyonel, do you understand the meaning of that word?"

"I do, father," he nodded.

"Father?" Cassana spoke again, "you know the fault was mine. Must you be so hard on Lyonel?"

Daveth turned to face her. "Cassana, you will not yet have to carry such a burden like the crown I will one day pass on to your brother once my time in this world is done. He must not allow himself to be led astray with such distractions… even in times of peace."

"He cares about our family as much you, mother and the rest of us. He yearns for your approval and will do what it takes to make it so. Maybe this ceremony will allow him to realize his true potential once he takes that first step."

"Then he will have to show me he has what it takes," Daveth replies. I can be harsh, firefly, I know. But as much as I want to as a father, I cannot as King permit too much leniency. Once you and your brother see more of the world, you'll understand why. He turns to the assembly. "Lords and ladies of the court, gather round," he begins, gathering their full attention. Sansa soon joins her husband's side. "We are gathered here today to celebrate a momentous occasion. Six years ago, men and women from every corner of Westeros stood united against the tyranny of House Targaryen and their dragons. Never in 300 years had we faced such a foe, but we defied the odds to defeat them and drive them back across the Narrow Sea."

Sansa spoke next. "Let us also remember that it also took a united Westeros to defeat the Night King and his Army of the Dead," she said. "Against all odds, and in the face of the greatest threat this world has ever known, we defended the realms of men – but at such a cost. The victories we won belongs to each of us… every man, woman, and child in the Seven Kingdoms. Let us remind everyone what it took to win. If war and times of hardship have taught us anything, it is that we are at our strongest when we work together. And if we can put aside our grievances long enough to stop something as powerful as dragons and White Walkers, imagine what we can achieve."

*APPLAUSE!*

"As the cornerstone of change is laid, we have now entered into a future greater than any one of us could imagine," Daveth chimed in. A future many did not live to see, but we will honor them. They gave us that chance. "My lords and ladies, it is with great pleasure that the Queen and I hereby introduce the newest member of our court: our eldest son and heir, Lyonel of Houses Baratheon and Stark, the Prince of Dragonstone." Together, he and Sansa look at Lyonel and wave at him to join them in the center.

*APPLAUSE!*

"Go on, brother. This is your moment," Cassana motioned.

"Congratulations, big brother," Torrhen and Rickard smiled.

"Big bruva," Orys babbled.

Lyonel straightened his collar and stood straight, taking one step after the other before all eyes were on him now. Giving a polite bow, he knelt before his parents. "Father, mother, words alone cannot express how much you honor me with such an appointment. This is a responsibility I will not take lightly," he began. "We can do so much more now. We are greater than our ancestors ever dreamed. This evening proves what we can accomplish through cooperation."

Well-spoken, my son, Sansa thought proudly. "Prince Lyonel Baratheon, as heir to the throne, do you swear on this day—by the Old Gods and the New—that you will guide the Seven Kingdoms when your time has come?"

"I swear by the Old Gods and the New," Lyonel vowed.

"Do you swear to uphold and preserve the peace?"

"I swear by the Old Gods and the New."

"Do you swear to use your power for the good of the realm and its people, not for your selfish desires?"

"I swear by the Old Gods and the New."

Sansa smiled. I'm so proud of you, sweetheart. "Arise, my son." Lyonel complies. "Let the festivities commence!" she proclaims.

*APPLAUSE!*

Lyonel looked at his father. Daveth looked at his eldest son and gave a brief nod; to the Baratheon prince, his lips curled into a happy smile—knowing he had taken his first step into proving himself worthy of inheriting his father's legacy. As his brothers and sister congratulated him on his first appointment, Lyonel kept his eyes locked on Daveth and Sansa—the latter smiled and waved at him.

I'll make you both proud, he thought. I promise. You have my word, father and mother.

(One week later…)

What came next the following week was not an easy moment for Sansa; on the day of their arrival, her uncle Edmure arrived to take her daughter Cassana with him to be fostered at Riverrun while her older brother Robb took her son Lyonel with him to be fostered north at Winterfell. All parties said their tearful goodbyes to each other as both Edmure and Robb promised the royal family they would take good care of the twins. Sansa, with her husband Daveth, their sons Torrhen, Rickard, and Orys, waved as the royal carriages rode off into the distance along the kingsroad.

Although it was customary, being separated from her firstborn children were particularly hard on Sansa. She would often sit by the window waiting for them, other times she would cry herself to sleep at the thought of not seeing them again—despite Daveth's reassurances they would still communicate via messenger birds. Over time, though, Sansa slowly came to accept the new reality they were in. Instead of being sad, the Wolf Queen held a deep sense of pride in her children. Lyonel, Cassana, Torrhen, Rickard, Orys… she loved them all and would help them should they ever ask her. True to their words, Cassana and Lyonel each sent ravens to King's Landing telling their parents how they've been, easing their mother's worry. Until then, Sansa spent the last few days raising her other three sons and arranging romantic dates with Daveth. The Small Council would keep the stress of the King and Queen for as long as permitted.

By nightfall, nearly everyone was in their assigned rooms.

Both Daveth and Sansa were in bed with the sheets pulled up to their neck to cover the fact they were completely naked after making love. Though she tried to sleep, Sansa sniffled lightly as her tired eyes glanced at the portrait of the entire royal family. Her husband, their children… they meant everything to her. She soon felt Daveth's body turning in the bed to spoon her, wrapping his arms around her to envelop her in a sideways hug.

"Can't sleep too?" Daveth asked.

"No," Sansa shook her head against the pillow. "I miss them, Daveth. Lyonel, Cassana… they're our first babies," she confessed.

"I know. They're good children. All of them."

Sansa turned to face Daveth, looking him in the eyes.

"If you want, we can arrange a visit to Riverrun and Winterfell—"

"Soon, love. Soon. I simply… wanted to relive the dream of holding them when they were babies is all."

Daveth reminisced the day he first became a father. He pictured Sansa cradling a newborn with a facial expression filled with love and affection for the creation of new life they would make together. Ten years married, five children… and seed enough for many more. They were still young and had plenty of time if they wanted to grow their family before time ran out. If Sansa wants another child, I'll give her one… and this time there will be nothing and no one to ruin it. Daveth felt more than content with his journey with Sansa by his side.

"Daveth?" Sansa snapped him out of his thoughts.

"Yes, Sansa?" he answered.

"Were you scared at Winterfell when you fought the Night King?"

Daveth shuddered; he hadn't thought about the Battle of Ice and Fire in such a long time. He didn't want to as it was a memory that would stick with him for the rest of his life. "Yes," he admitted. "Well, I… sometimes there were moments of doubt. But… looking back now, all I thought was to keep those monsters away from the people who mattered most. Our family."

"I wish I could have been there with you."

"You were," he held her hand. "More than you could imagine. Every time I went to fight a war, I thought about you and our children. You all gave me purpose, a reason to want to come home."

Sansa smiled. She traced her thumb across Daveth's knuckle and leaned in to kiss him. As she pulled away, the Wolf Queen pressed her forehead against her mate's. "I love you," she told him.

Daveth wrapped his arms around Sansa and pulled her close, ignoring the feeling of her breasts pressing against his chest. "I love you too," he murmured. And thank you, Sansa… for everything.

Before long, both ventured off into a deep sleep. As they dreamed, they lived to see some amazing things; another decade in their life come to pass. But each had to see their loved ones die off to make it this far. Jon Arryn, Eddard Stark, Robert Baratheon, Barristan Selmy, Lucius Blackmyre… all long gone. What kept the Young Stag up most nights was the thought about each of the people he forged ever-lasting bonds with walking their own trials and tribulations the same way he did, each in their own time.

By the Gods. Sometimes, the great journey… seems so long.

Chapter End

Author's Note: The second to last chapter is here; the final one will consist of an epilogue detailing the events taking place afterward. The royal children have grown up—both in age and numbers—and now Lyonel and Cassana are both off to follow their own path. Since the title "Prince of Dragonstone" wasn't used during King Robert's reign, Daveth decided to bring it back and bestow it upon his eldest son Lyonel before he and his twin sister are taken in by their relatives in House Tully and House Stark to be fostered. Each of the Baratheon children has shown to display their own set of personality traits, but which ones did you think stood out the most? Who acted more like their father or mother? Stay tuned for the final update: the epilogue!

C.E.W: King Daveth and Queen Sansa continue to rule the realm, and see to it that their children are prepared for the responsibility. Lyonel and Cassana were very young, but surely they remember the last Battle of King's Landing, how can anyone forget a thing like that. No one is going to go up against Daveth given that he's won every war he fought, and leads the realm better than any other king in generations.

Robb Stark and Talisa continue to rule the North, trying to rebuild from the Long Night. But House Stark is known for honor and duty which is why Daveth sent Lyonel there.

Jon Snow is probably busy helping the Wildlings beyond the Wall, they suffered greatly thanks to the White Walkers. Maybe Jon became the New King-beyond-the-Wall and may have a chance of leading the Wildings into a better life. The North grove might be a start.

Theon Greyjoy went to the Iron Islands with people to settle there, and build a new Ironborn culture. To be better than those who came before, long dead thanks to Daveth and perhaps maybe they'll be something better for the sea.

Trystane and Myrcella will be rulers of Dorne before long after Doran is dead. How's the relationship between Tyene and Olyver going?

Tyrion still serves as Hand of the King, he might retire soon so that he may spend time with his wife and kid at Casterly Rock. Tyrion learned that it is important to balance duty from family, something that his father never understood.

Tommen and Margaery Tyrell rule the Reach, I suspect their children might take the Tyrell name. Shireen handles the Stormlands, Edmure rules the Riverlands, and Robin the Vale.

Essos might be a concern though, particularly in Dragon's Bay once known as Slaver's Bay. Daario might be dead, but Daenerys had many admirers among the former slaves, many may hear of her death at Daveth's hands. They might come to seek revenge, armies have been built from low people before. There will always be war, not in Daveth and Sansa's lifetime perhaps but someday, its why they prepare their children for responsibility.

RHatch89: Awesome update :)

Turner1416: I got question does this mean their will be a new story like a new saga

—Haven't decided yet.

TehStorm: Great chapter,i can't wait for the last chapter of the story even tough i am really sad to see this amazing story end.

Praetor12: It's funny that you did the Prince of Egypt reference, because I was thinking of that movie this morning. I kind of wish you would have started the chapter with the boys causing trouble like in the movie, maybe not doing the same thing but I'm sure you get what I mean.

Bio RL: When will the epilogue be published? :0

—Soon.

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Trials and Tribulations of the Oathkeeper by DeadlyMaelstrom711

 TV » Game of Thrones Rated: M, English, Drama & Romance, [OC, Sansa S.] Daenerys T., Jon S., Words: 859k+, Favs: 1k+, Follows: 1k+, Published: Apr 16, 2018 Updated: Feb 11, 2020 2,418Chapter 180: Epilogue

"And then it was over.

It is said that history would always remember how the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros were unified under Aegon the Conqueror of House Targaryen and his sister-wives Rhaenys and Visenya, with fire and blood. He declared "from this day forth there would be but one King in Westeros. Those who bent the knee to Aegon of House Targaryen would keep their lands and titles. Those who took up arms against him would be thrown down, humbled and destroyed." Thus began the War of Conquest, which established House Targaryen as the ruling royal family of Westeros – and the Iron Throne's creation, forged from the swords of Aegon's fallen enemies, melted down by the fiery breath of Balerion the Black Dread, then beaten and bent to give it form.

For 300 years dragon kings came and went – but in the 280th year after Aegon's Conquest, the once-mighty power of the dragon of Old Valyria had greatly diminished before finally coming to an end. Rebellion! The cruel, tyrannical reign of King Aerys II Targaryen the Mad sparked a nation-wide uprising the maesters would later record in the Citadel archives as Robert's Rebellion and the fall of the Targaryen dynasty. Viserys and his sister Daenerys, the last Targaryen descendants of Aegon the Conqueror himself, were forced into exile across the sea by the new King Robert I Baratheon and vowed to one day reclaim what was stolen from them, with fire and blood.

They would remain a threat to the fledgling Baratheon dynasty for nearly two decades until the year 304 AC when Queen Daenerys I Targaryen, like her Valyrian ancestors before her, crossed the Narrow Sea with an army and three dragons to seize the Iron Throne from Robert's son King Daveth I Baratheon. Once again, the stag and the dragon fought each other on the battlefield. The War for Westeros began in earnest and came to an end a year later when Daveth plunged his dagger deep into Daenerys's heart, thus eliminating the threat House Targaryen posed once and for all. With the Iron Throne's destruction, the final spoke of the wheel founded by Aegon the Conqueror had been swept away.

With the realm prospering under the Baratheon dynasty, it trades in secret as easily as it does favors; with eyes and ears in almost every hall, its web of influence is felt in the known world. No secrets are beyond its reach; its military might is feared, and its power is without question. The integrity of Seven Kingdoms would remain intact, safe, and secure under the reign of the stag kings. Now as a nation began to heal, and a new age had begun, we are left with a reminder of what might have been.

But what of those who remained standing?

Perhaps the Three-Eyed Raven could offer his insight."

—The Trials and Tribulations of the Oathkeeper, by Archmaester Ebrose.

The North

Consider the oldest and largest administrative region of the Seven Kingdoms, where House Stark continued to hold dominion over the North from their seat in Winterfell under the jurisdiction of the throne with Robb Stark—the Young Wolf—remaining in his position as Lord of Winterfell, Lord Paramount of the North and Warden of the North. Due to his close friendship and association with the King since childhood, the bond between House Stark and House Baratheon grew more stronger and closer than ever before with the marriage-alliance between Sansa Stark and Daveth Baratheon, grateful for having both such a loyal ally and a good friend to come to his countrymen's aid in their time of need as both sides continue to benefit from the ongoing relationship. Rumors abound that House Stark and the King of the Seven Kingdoms are in secret talks to establish further close relations – though neither side could either confirm or deny it.

Robb and his wife, Talisa Maegyr of Volantis, produced three children—Eddard, Brandon, and Rodrik Stark. They would later invite their in-laws of House Baratheon as guests of honor at a feast commemorating the defeat of the White Walkers that lasted six weeks. Acting as the Three-Eyed Raven, Bran Stark offered his insight and visions of both past, present, and future to passersby… albeit still weirding them out. Children would sit by the fire, listening to his stories.

As for Arya Stark, those who knew her since childhood never heard from her for quite some time. After many years of no contact, a small boat was spotted sailing along the Sunset Sea before docking at Lannisport. The hooded figure informed the local lords of an apparent discovery of uncharted lands west of Westeros; slinging a surprise package from their shoulder, the contents inside showed a detailed map about this strange new land. This caught the crown's interest and prompted House Baratheon to send a small, elite force on a sea voyage west across the Sunset Sea to explore and, if possible, to secure the continent for colonization—beginning the Age of Discovery. Following seven months at sea, the sailors were met with the mysterious young woman carrying the sigil of House Stark on her shoulders. When asked for her identity, she simply said, "a girl is Arya Stark of Winterfell, and you are guests in someone else's home."

Upon the expedition's return, the lands west of Westeros were named 'Mirantibus Spe', the ancient Andal word for 'a Land of Hope and Wonder.'

In the months that followed the Battle of Ice and Fire, the North began a long periodical process of reconstruction efforts. With the Night King dead, the White Walkers and their magic rendered extinct and the threat of another Long Night prevented, never again did the world have anything to fear from what lies beyond the Wall. Word of the battle spread like wildfire. When it came to light, lords and ladies of the south donated generous amount of supplies—food, medicine, clothes, and raw material to assist with building and ensuring their northern counterparts would have plenty to eat, kept warm by the fire in their hearths, and make it through one of the longest winters ever recorded as their homes were steadily brought back from the brink of ruin. Winterfell was restored to its former glory within a year and a half, the North in four.

Winterfell stood as a monument in history, reminding everyone as the ancient fortress that guarded the realms of men, standing against a horde of undead that threatened to consume the entire world. Through sheer numbers, strategy and tactics, and the strength of the bond between men- and women-at-arms, the combined armies of the living outnumbered many times over. The castle's walls were later repaired and—with access to southern ingenuity—renovated, proved impervious to any who dared lay siege. Through taxes and levies, Winterfell emerged stronger than ever before. Years later, Winterfell developed an almost mythic reputation, the survivors immortalized in both song and legend.

Peace allowed the North to recover. Once more, the North and its people maintained their role as the shield who guards the realms of men with a capable army at its core. From their ranks emerged new heroes, ready to face new challenges. Among the many legends that the North spawn was one of the great heroes of the new age, a sheepherder-turned-soldier by the name of Ser Dramen the Valiant, who eventually founded an order of northern knights that lasted two centuries.

With its role fulfilled, the Night's Watch continued to act as a home to misfits, bastards, orphans and exiled criminals who belonged nowhere, giving them a chance to rise high in the world. Freed from their obligations and pardoned for their crimes, the new Night's Watch gave hope to the condemned and forgotten as its founders once had. In the deepest pits and prisons of Westeros, wandering crows found, if not goodness itself, its potential. By showing faith in those who had none, those who wore the black lifted them up and made them into something better than they were. On the off chance should a greater threat emerge from beyond the Wall, the Night's Watch would again be the shield that guards the realms of men.

What becomes of Jon Snow is unknown – save for news that the Free Folk have now rallied behind a new King-Beyond-the-Wall and sent a diplomatic envoy of their own to Castle Black… a cloaked stranger accompanied by an albino direwolf.

The Reach

Being the most fertile region, the Reach under the leadership of House Tyrell was rather quick in distributing crops to feed its people as they worked to rebuild areas affected by Euron Greyjoy and Daenerys Targaryen. Within several days, the Shield Islands were recovered with the Arbor soon dispatching several patrol ships along the Mander to prevent another incursion from happening along the coastlines again. Because of the sovereignty's support for law and order, the Reach was quick to recover and was able to dispose of smugglers and greedy opportunists seeking to take advantage of the situation.

Although the War for Westeros devastated many farms in the Reach, all agreed the Dothraki khalasar and Drogon would have done much worse without soldiers and militiamen for protection. The farmers developed a certain reverence for their saviors—as well as an ongoing reliance on local troops for order and protection. With the Targaryen forces gone from the region, the roseroad began to see trade flowing through again, and ever so slowly, people began to return to their homes. Projects received funding from Highgarden.

However, feeling no more reason to remain, Janei Lannister left Highgarden and returned to her family's holdfast at Casterly Rock. She was never seen again.

One month after the Battle of King's Landing, Prince Tommen and his consort Margaery Tyrell—Lady of Highgarden, Lady Paramount of the Reach and Wardeness of the South, announced they were receiving their first child together, much to the delight of the Reach's citizenry. Soon thereafter, they would welcome the birth of their daughter Eleanor Baratheon. More children followed shortly afterward: sons Loren, Gerold, and Jason and another daughter Cersei; thereby establishing the House Baratheon of Highgarden branch. With Tommen's true parentage kept a safe secret, no one in the realm… except for only three. And if someone suggested otherwise, they were immediately silenced.

After all, who would be more believable?

Following the death of Lord Mace and Ser Loras Tyrell, the Queen of Thrones Lady Olenna Tyrell suffered a broken hip sustained from a fall at Highgarden whilst arranging the funeral for her fallen son and grandson. Furthermore, the grief and bitterness caused her heart to fail and was eventually bedridden until she passed away in her sleep at the ripe old age of 81. Rumors suggest it was either the harsh reality that her granddaughter Margaery would never become Queen, the mindboggling question as to how a boy much younger was able to outwit her politically, or the knowledge that the birth of Tommen and Margaery's children will no doubt cause House Tyrell to slowly fade into obscurity before their inevitable extinction.

Either way, the influence of House Baratheon ensured that Highgarden and the Reach belonged to them now.

The Riverlands

Being left untouched during the War for Westeros, the Riverlands under the lordship of Edmure Tully of Riverrun would continue to see peace and prosperity return to the region. Once the middle child of Westeros and often the frequent battleground of the many civil wars that afflicted the Seven Kingdoms and between old nations before the War of Conquest, the river lords could now breathe a sigh of relief. Lord Edmure along with his lady wife Roslin and their son Lymond found the villages south along the kingsroad to as far north as the Twins already bustling and eager to leave behind the memories of the terrible armed conflicts that brought them nothing but misery. Although not as canny a politician as his late father Lord Hoster Tully, Edmure proved a capable statesman and continued to rule the Riverlands as Lord of Riverrun and Lord Paramount of the Trident – answerable only to the crown itself.

Although he sought to gain favor with his niece Sansa as Queen, Edmure's ideas were again rejected in such a humorous fashion. "Don't push your luck, uncle," was what he was told.

The Twins, however, experienced their own tragedy when Lord Walder Frey unexpectedly passed away at 97 years old. While some mockingly claimed it was due to old age finally catching up with him, House Frey's maester Brenett disputed this notion and revealed that Walder had suffered a fatal heart attack—likely at the sight of a dragon flying south past his holdfast greatly terrified him. His son and heir, Ser Stevron Frey, soon took over as lord. Unlike his father, however, Stevron was as amiable as he was reasonable – allowing a more friendly relationship to form with his in-laws.

With their role fulfilled, the Brotherhood Without Banners were reduced to a peacekeeping role in patrolling the kingsroad. With their leader gone, however, the group had their various disagreements before deciding to disband and return to their former lives. Some were relieved to see the unpredictable band of outlaws dismantled; others preferred to remember the good works they did for the smallfolk when Ser Gregor Clegane terrorized them.

Good years or bad, whatever the case, the Riverlands thrived once more.

The Iron Islands

Once a cluster of seven small, rocky islands off the western coast of Westeros dominated by the Old Way philosophy, scholars said that the Iron Islands would never again recover following the devastating aftermath caused by the Second Greyjoy Rebellion. In time, many began to label the region as a desolate wasteland. However, to the surprise of many, the King and Queen of the Seven Kingdoms announced the Iron Islands would be restored to its former self and began a restoration project.

With his exile lifted, Theon Greyjoy was permitted to return home to rule as Lord of the Iron Islands, Lord Reaper of Pyke, King of Salt and Rock and Son of the Seawind. Determined to not let another chance go to waste, he instituted further reforms to House Greyjoy and the new ironborn; like his grandfather Quellon before him, Theon worked to assimilate the ironborn into Andal culture, banned taking defeated foes as thralls and forbade reaving the coastlands – instead encouraging trade, discouraged the taking of salt wives, encouraged marriage-alliances with the mainland and brought maesters from the Citadel to the Isles.

The survivors of Winterfell hailed Theon and his archery skills as vital in protecting the Lord of Winterfell's crippled brother during the Battle of Ice and Fire, holding back tens of assaulting undead. During a visit to Winterfell, the men dragged Theon to the great hall to engage him in a drinking contest. Theon lost.

He stayed in the North for a few more months longer, training the Northmen's next generation of archers. But when duty called, Theon told Robb that his stay was over. And yet, on the day of his departure, he told the Young Wolf that should the North ever need help, the kraken would ensnare their common enemy and drag them down beneath the waves. Ever after, the North was his home by heart and the Starks were his family.

Upon receiving the blessings of Sansa Stark, Theon and Jeyne Poole were married. According to those who knew the pair best, they would say the union was warm; forever grateful the role Theon played for rescuing her from Ramsay Snow, Jeyne underwent psychological treatment before finally giving her ironborn husband many children: Loron, Vickon, Asha, Tess, Dalton, and Harren Greyjoy.

The Vale

Hailed as honorable warriors and saviors of every battle they participated in, the knights of the Vale returned home as heroes. Many followed in the footsteps of the venerated Lord Yohn Royce, going through vigorous training in the mountains and river-valleys.

Men and women soldiers who fought in the Battle of Ice and Fire, wearing the distinctive silver armor crafted by the Vale's finest smiths, came to be known as the Brotherhood of Winged Knights, named after the legendary Ser Artys I Arryn, the Winged Knight, the first King of the Mountain and Vale and founder of House Arryn; together they acted as elite bodyguards to the Lord of the Eyrie for the next three years before the new knightly order gained more recognition and popularity. Within a generation, the number of members gradually increased.

Under the Lord of Runestone's tutelage, the Brotherhood of Winged Knights developed into the Vale's most revered military forces.

Yohn Royce remained in the Eyrie for some time, acting as the chief advisor to the young Robin Arryn—Lord of the Eyrie, Lord Paramount of the Vale and Warden of the East before his regency came to an end. As a reward for his long faithful service to House Arryn, Robin appointed him to a position of great authority as High Steward of the Vale and Keeper of the Gates of the Moon once held by his late cousin Nestor.

Having been fostered at Runestone during his youth, Robin grew to have a more lax stance and appeared to be more capable of ruling on his own. Though he would never live up to his father Jon Arryn's legacy or come close to upholding his family values 'As High as Honor', Robin appeared to have matured a good bit. When he learned the truth about his mother poisoning his father at Littlefinger's behest and then Littlefinger killing his mother as well, Robin posthumously stripped House Baelish of all lands and titles. Over the next years, he dedicated himself to ruling the Vale and to clear the blemishes on his family's reputation caused by his late mother Lysa. When a new statue of Jon Arryn was eventually erected in King's Landing, Robin would occasionally visit the capital to pay his respects to his father.

Talks between the Lord of the Eyrie and the King of the Seven Kingdoms, however, were occasionally cool if not awkward. When Robin acted like his old self only once, he would quickly leave King's Landing with a black eye and a beratement—making him revert to being humble. He wouldn't say who did it, but those at court knew the truth and why.

As the last Arryn, Robin was advised to choose a young noblewoman as his bride. With some encouragement, he eventually married Yohn's daughter Sharra Royce. Together, they furthered the Arryn bloodline with sons Roland, Artys, and Mathos and a daughter Amerei.

The Stormlands

As the first yet one of the most heavily militarized administrative regions of the Seven Kingdoms to bear the brunt of the Targaryen invasion of Westeros, the Stormlands took longer to heal than its neighbors—ranging the list of casualties in the tens of thousands. Those who fought valiantly against the Golden Company and Unsullied during the conflict defended their homes against the foreign invaders many times over until the decisive Battle of Storm's End turned the tides in the royalists' favor. The garrison of Storm's End—clad in utilitarian Baratheon steel plate armor and small metal stag horns on their helmets—each man and woman felled a dozen before they died. And when the trap was sprung, the might of the Stormlands came hammering down on the enemy forces.

Lord Selwyn Tarth's engineers further refined his explosive arrow tips but remained in his castle after Second Sons mercenaries tried to assassinate him. Although the plot was foiled, any further study came to an end.

In time, many were able to reclaim their homes and begin tending to their holdfasts. Upon receiving the messenger raven, Aemon Estermont departed King's Landing to return to the island of Estermont along with his brother Andrew and son Alyn, succeeding his father Lord Eldon as the new ruler of Greenstone. King Daveth and Queen Sansa were among one of the many dignitaries who paid an unannounced visit to Estermont to personally attend the funeral of the King's great-great-uncle.

True to his word, Daveth undid his late father's actions and returned nine-tenths of House Connington's lands to them, thereby elevating them from landed knights to a full noble house once again. Lordship of Griffin's Roost fell to Ronnet Connington, who in return was grateful for having his family's fortunes restored and he swore an oath of fealty to House Baratheon in perpetuity.

As the sole surviving child of Stannis Baratheon, it was Shireen who led her countrymen in the new era brought on by her cousin. Despite her disfigurement, it did not deter her intellectual curiosity, nor did it affect her gift at providing relief to the downtrodden. But this time, however, she was no longer alone; with the advice of Ser Davos Seaworth and the support of her newly legitimized cousins Lord Gendry and Lady Mya Baratheon, Shireen did not hesitate. And, just like her father, carried out her duties loyally as Lady of Storm's End and Lady Paramount of the Stormlands.

Shireen never did marry, and instead named Gendry as her heir should anything were to ever happen to her.

Mya remained in Storm's End, for a time. Although delighted to now at least enjoy the privileges of being a noblewoman, she felt more attached to her home in the Vale and left in a small boat docked near Shipbreaker's Bay in the dead of night—leaving behind a letter in her old quarters explaining her reasons. She was disheartened that she did not get to marry her crush Ser Mychel Redfort but was now able to stand equally among her new peers… finally overcoming the stigma of being a bastard. But when one dared remind her of her baseborn origins, Mya responded with the occasional punch to the face, informing them that "[she] is the King's sister."

With a newfound sense of pride in his Baratheon heritage, Gendry remained in Storm's End with his new wife Myranda Royce. What defined his character was his upbringing as both a commoner and a bastard: in contrast to his father Robert, he was humble and polite to those who knew him best yet proved himself a brave and capable fighter with a protective instinct when called to do so. Growing up having to work for a living made Gendry disciplined, focused on whatever he set his mind to – although he would occasionally joke he didn't know how to be a lord of anything and never expected to be such, having to rely on his cousin Shireen for advice. He said, "being a blacksmith was easy. Been hammering an anvil most of my life. But being a lord? I don't know how to be a lord of anything! I hardly know how to use a fork."

Whenever he wasn't busy learning the art of governance, the castellan and master-at-arms of Storm's End would occasionally find Gendry working in the armory, forging weapons and armor for the region's soldiers. He and Myranda would soon start a family of their own, with the arrival of their sons Edric, Robert, Davos, and Raymont.

To this day, the maesters say that Gendry and Daveth would continue to communicate via messenger ravens—although the Young Stag would comment on his half-brother's "sloppy handwriting."

The Westerlands

Immensely rich in natural resources, the Westerlands provided the metals needed for the crown's reconstruction projects. But with the predominantly mountainous hills drained of its gold mines, the wealth of House Lannister was soon enough surpassed by House Tyrell of Highgarden—no matter the trade deals and levies, the lions of Casterly Rock was merely a shell of what it once was.

Although the domain of the Westerlands remained under Tyrion Lannister—Lord of Casterly Rock, Lord Paramount of the Westerlands and Warden of the West, the constituent region only begrudgingly accepted the Imp's lordship due to House Lannister's familial ties to House Baratheon of King's Landing. When House Spicer and House Farman openly mocked and disobeyed their dwarven liege lord, word eventually reached the ears of the capital. In response to such hearing insults being directed at his uncle, Daveth dispatched an envoy to the Westerlands with nothing but a lute and had the envoy sing "The Rains of Castamere." After that, all talks immediately ceased though none dared move against or speak ill of the Imp himself, mostly out of fear of awakening the Young Stag's wrath.

After all, their King is the grandson and protégé of Lord Tywin Lannister himself.

Ser Jaime Lannister remained in King's Landing where he continued to serve as Lord Commander of the Kingsguard to his nephew. Having managed to overcome his infamous reputation as "the Kingslayer, Oathbreaker, a Man Without Honor"—hated and despised—many began to see him in a new favorable light once they learned of Jaime's reasons for slaying King Aerys to prevent the infamous wildfire plot from being carried out. None were perhaps more surprised than Jaime himself.

Under his leadership, the sacred brotherhood rivaled its proud reputation as it once held with each member of the Kingsguard proving their mettle and overall raw talent upon donning the white cloak; as the sole remaining Kingsguard left from the Mad King's era, Jaime proved the most experienced knight of them all, working to ensure that new enemies did not arise in the new era. Although he held a seat on the Small Council and advised the King and Queen as the realm's chief military advisor, discussing politics merely bored Jaime as he preferred action over words. While Jaime often had disagreements with Daveth's policies, the two shared a mutual respect for one another as fellow warriors and worked well together in founding the Royal Army of Westeros.

Jaime and Brienne continued their romantic affair, even though their respective responsibilities often kept them from seeing each other from time to time. Whenever they could spare the time, Brienne would join her love at the gardens overlooking Blackwater Bay. Those days were deeply cherished, for both could experience true genuine happiness neither had felt in such a long time; their secret relationship was eventually discovered by the crown, however, but rather than punishing the pair, both Daveth and Sansa permitted the two Kingsguard knights to continue seeing each other romantically so long as it didn't interfere with their duties. Jaime and Brienne agreed to the conditions.

During his downtime, Jaime maintained a close personal relationship with his daughter Princess Myrcella Baratheon and his son Prince Tommen. Those who knew Jaime from the beginning said that while he now takes his vows seriously, they had never seen him smile so often.

The former whore-turned-lady Shae reveled in the elevation of her status as a highborn noble. Despite her happy marriage to Tyrion Lannister, she would continue to receive distrustful glances from the other lords of the Westerlands because of her lowborn origins – with some even comparing her to Tytos Lannister's second mistress whenever they saw her parading about the halls wearing high-quality dresses and jewelry. Shae didn't care, though, and ignored the insults directed at her.

One day at court, being full of pride and confidence, Shae went so far as to demand the King address her as "[his] lady aunt", to which Daveth responded with "I made you Lady of Harrenhal, I can easily strip away all lands and titles and render you a lowborn again. Know your place."

She never had the gall to push her luck with him again.

Tyrion continued to serve his nephew as Hand of the King, but after many years he resigned his post and was permitted to return to Casterly Rock, a request Daveth was hesitant but granted. Taking Shae and their son Tygett with him back to the Westerlands, Tyrion would later father more children with his second wife: Tywald, Gerion, Lynora, and Tysha.

Despite being looked down upon by and receiving little respect, never to meet up to the same standards his father Lord Tywin set for House Lannister, it is said that Tyrion's keen intellect and adept skills at political maneuvering made him the most suitable for the role as Lord of Casterly Rock, making him even better than Tywin would ever have been.

If only the Great Lion treated the Little Lion with the respect he deserved instead of treating his misshapen son so terribly.

Dorne

In the deserts of Dorne, the southernmost region stood out as one of three in the Seven Kingdoms who remained almost unaffected with the chaotic wars north of the border along the Red Mountains and Dornish Marches. Although the Targaryen forces consisting of light Dothraki cavalry tried to invade their lands, they were met with the same guerilla warfare used by the Dornish people during Aegon the Conqueror's invasion of Westeros centuries before—proving themselves as capable, adaptable warriors and as deadly as poisonous vipers if threatened. Descendants of the Rhoynish warrior-queen Nymeria and Prince Mors Martell prospered after the War for Westeros, having earned much respect for their part in contributing to the end of House Targaryen. For once, the Reach and Stormlands welcomed their former enemies in their lands.

Grateful for finally getting the justice for his slain sister Elia and her children Rhaenys and Aegon after being denied for two decades, Doran Martell forever pledged his house's loyalty to the crown and remained in his position as Prince of Dorne and Lord of Sunspear for many years more before further succumbing to illness. His crippling struggle with a severe case of gout left him no longer able to travel abroad – even in his wheelchair. Before his death, Doran ordered a statue to be erected in the Water Gardens dedicated to his younger brother Prince Oberyn Martell, who died in the Battle of Ice and Fire along with his bastard daughters Obara and Nymeria.

His son, Prince Trystane, resigned his post on the Small Council as Master of Laws and Lord Justicar and returned to Sunspear to inherit his father's responsibilities; Princess Myrcella chose to accompany him to Dorne along with their son Nymerios. With no more wars to fight, old wounds healed and an accord of reconciliation reached, it was time to move on. According to both House Martell and House Baratheon, the two made a lovely pair.

Ellaria Sand mourned the loss of her paramour, as did their daughters Tyene, Elia, Obella, Dorea, and Loreza Sand before acquiring Oberyn's ashes. They buried him in Sunspear's tombs next to Princess Elia Martell.

Tyene Sand, however, would not remain in Dorne forever. Some claimed she was last seen in King's Landing to reunite with her Kingsguard lover Ser Olyvar Frey, and that they spend most of their days in the bedroom. The pair were spotted together in the Residential District a year after the war's end. No matter the truth, Tyene never did return to Dorne.

Daveth Baratheon and Sansa Stark

And what of the King and Queen of the Seven Kingdoms themselves?

In the years that followed the Great Council, Daveth Baratheon and Sansa Stark continued to rule the Seven Kingdoms from the Red Keep and proved themselves an effective pair at the game of thrones, each one playing to their strengths. Together they rebuilt the city's damaged infrastructure, homes, ports, and fleets. Within a decade, King's Landing emerged as the crown jewel of Westeros—attracting many scholars and ambassadors from the Free Cities. The two of them made numerous royal progresses across Westeros from Sunspear to Winterfell, supervising the reconstruction process and greeting their subjects personally, much to the ecstatic approval of nobles and commoners alike. Many said the chaos of the Stag Sedition, Second Greyjoy Rebellion, Bolton-Sparrow Uprising, Long Night and the War for Westeros were worth it for delivering such beloved monarchs since King Jaehaerys I Targaryen and Queen Alysanne.

A patron of the arts and dedicated to the principles of charity, Queen Sansa made numerous visits to orphanages and promoted access to education among the poor which made her popularity among the smallfolk grow. Her generosity, kindness, intelligence, and charm earned Sansa the nickname "Alysanne the Second" and "the Queen of Winter"; however, her fierce devotion to family and protective maternal instincts towards her children garnered her a new nickname: "the Red Wolf." No matter the circumstance, despite having adapted to life at court in the south, Sansa maintained her heritage as a Northmen and never forsook her honor as a Stark.

After the war ended, King Daveth the Great resumed managing the realm's state of affairs with the help of his trusted advisors and the woman he loved. He instituted further reforms, loosening restrictions on gender-based inheritance laws and enforced new standards of security along trade routes on the country's highways. With the Royal Army of Westeros primarily acting as a peacekeeping force in the new era, its size alone was enough to deter anyone from causing trouble again while protecting his interests.

With peace and prosperity reigning across the land, Daveth and Sansa were able to spend more time together and their offspring. Their marriage was a happy one—full of trust, warmth, and affection. Their family proved fruitful with Sansa giving birth to six children in total.

Crown Prince Lyonel Baratheon was fostered by his Stark cousins at Winterfell where he learned more of his northern heritage, trained with his cousins, and praying in solitude in the godswood; during the time in which he was fostered would on occasion visit his family in King's Landing before moving to the island of Dragonstone to begin his official duties as Prince of Dragonstone. Lyonel would later ascend to the throne as the nation's nineteenth sovereign, formally styling himself as Lyonel of Houses Baratheon and Stark, the First of His Name, King of the Andals, the Rhoynar, and the First Men, Lord of the Seven Kingdoms and Protector of the Realm. He would marry Lady Katryna Hightower of Oldtown.

Princess Cassana Baratheon, like her mother, was a patron of the arts and often sang songs which brought tears to many lords and ladies at court. As Cassana matured into a beautiful young woman, her lovely voice attracted the attention of Ser Patrack Mallister who sought and won her hand. Even after moving to the Riverlands, whispers suggest it was Cassana who was the true power in Seagard – dominating her spouse with elegance and, of course, her barbed tongue and sharp mind.

Prince Torrhen Baratheon continued his training with his brothers and was knighted at sixteen, whereupon reaching the legal age chose to enlist in the Royal Army of Westeros and rose to command the Fifteenth Battalion. After being discharged, Torrhen met and fell in love with Lady Liya Grafton. Following a long period of courtship, the two married in Gulltown.

Prince Rickard Baratheon opted to enroll in the Citadel to become a maester, knowing he could apply his talents elsewhere other than the royal court. Although this upset Sansa, she accepted his decision. Chained and sworn to House Grandison, Rickard specialized in medicine and science.

Prince Orys Baratheon followed in his older brother's footsteps and joined the Royal Army of Westeros, though he would never keep pace with them. His captains gave him many chances, but gradually their patience began to wear thin; a great scandal broke out when his comrades eventually caught a drunk Rickard in a brothel surrounded by whores which later caused him to be discharged from the military when it soon became public knowledge that he fathered a bastard with one of them. His actions deeply disappointed his parents.

And lastly, Princess Lyanna Baratheon remained in King's Landing. Her pious nature became apparent and she joined the Faith of the Seven as a septa. She prayed regularly at the Great Sept of Baelor and would, as a show of respect towards her Stark heritage, prayed in the godswood as a tribute to the Old Gods of the Forest. Although this upset the Faith's clergy, the High Septa would not punish her for her faith—at least for a time.

The circle of life, however, would act accordingly.

In 364 AC, Sansa Stark died of old age. Her passing was considered peaceful and with no suffering as it happened in her sleep. She was surrounded by her loved ones and all her children who gathered at her funeral in tears. Her loss sent shockwaves throughout the realm as mourners arrived in the capital to pay their respects to their Queen.

Daveth, however, never fully recovered from such a tragedy. Sansa had been the greatest love of his life and it was said by traveling minstrels that the grief caused by their parting caused his health to deteriorate which led to him being confined to his bed for the remainder of his life, reducing him to a shell of the man he once was.

In 366 AC, Daveth passed away at the age of 85. The last words that left his lips "Sansa… wait for me, my love. I'm coming…" echoed throughout the room. Although it was publicly announced he had succumbed to old age, those who knew him best said he died of a broken heart. His tales were written into both fictional tales and songs. His body was laid to rest before being cremated and his ashes were interred with Sansa's ashes before being buried beneath the Great Sept of Baelor.

From Dorne to the North, the people of the realm mourned for seven days and seven nights.

Having ruled the Seven Kingdoms for 68 years, King Daveth the Great of House Baratheon had surpassed King Jaehaerys the Conciliator of House Targaryen as the longest-reigning monarch in Westerosi history. Thus, the dragons of House Targaryen were replaced by the stags of House Baratheon and would remain in power as rulers of the Seven Kingdoms with the Oathkeeper's descendants striving to uphold the legacy he had left behind for them.

Establishing a dynasty lasting over 1,000 years.

Chapter End

Author's Note: Here it is, everyone: the final chapter of Trials and Tribulations of the Oathkeeper. As we now draw this series to a close, I'd like to give a shout out to all those who stuck with me from the very beginning. Words alone cannot express how much I appreciated your support and ideas. Thank you for taking a moment to read my story.

hellzboy: You know there's binge watching, then there's binge reading.

I'M SOOOO GLAD I FOUND THIS BLOODY OUTSTANDING FANFIC!

Kudos to you, my friend! One of the longest, greatest fanfics I have ever read!

I love Daveth Baratheon The Great! The title you chose for this fanfic is truly the most perfect one, for it really described the TRIALS and TRIBULATIONS the Young Stag endured in his lifetime.

I wept, I laughed, I worried with every new chapter the stag had to face. I loved how you kept him as humane as possible by outright having him struggle with the mental burdens of carrying the crown and the seven kingdoms that comes with it. I loved how he spoke, always remembering that he spoke not just as himself but as his title. I loved the romance he had with Sansa. I loved how awkward he is—totally adorable. I loved the way he fought just like a stag—he may be weaker than his foes but when he's pack is in danger; he finds the strength to overcome them.

I've always loved reading on OC's and after reading this one, Daveth Baratheon is probably my favourite out of the one's I've read. Such a Brilliant character! I congratulate you on completing his journey. You're one of the most commendable fanfictioners in our community. I'm glad you not only ended up finishing this, but ended up with 180 chaps! You're one of the rare!

Ooohh yeah, before I leave, I want to commend you about chp 134 when the dragon and the stag first met; I was reading it with all seriousness when it had me laugh out loud when Ser Davos introduced Daveth with all the titles just to match Daenerys' titles hehe. It was a really good start of their meeting.

And one more thing, just a slight irritation, but when I was reading I noticed that though I loved how you emphasised the stag's mortality whenever he fought, why is it he only ends up on his knees? Robb and Jon and Olyvar are some of among his age group. They should've had at least some battle wounds to match Daveth's, like some broken ribs or nicked teeth at least... but anyway other than that that I have no problems with this. Adios!

RoundLake: I decided to start my review with critisizes, but changed my mind. This story is definitely worth reading, I would recommend anytime. The writer deserves applause for hardwork, commitment and perseverance.

Now let's start the actual review. This story is the most original unoriginal fanfiction I've ever read. It's clear that the writer is capable of writing his/her own tale, adjusting original storyline to changes, especially the second half. Still, the story suffers from a bit of unoriginality. Writer bowed down to plot armor and unrealistic plotlines to maintain few event from the original game of thrones. It was unnecessary and ruined the charm by a bit. For example, the Bolton war was completely pointless. Why would Ramsay send assassins after the king? What does he gain? He had no reason to rebel against a strengthened Winterfell. That's just one example, there are many more aalong with awkwardly put dialogues.

Still, it's a good well-written story and is worth reading.

Kelorus: Such a marvelous fiction, I thank you a lot for this quite interesting and well written piece of work, or dare I say masterpiece? No matter, it was perfect.

Stark Sisters: Best classic story ever so far!

Guest #6: Your story's one of the best, is it not?

AbyssalVoidLord: Well man, I must say CONGRATULATIONS for writing one of the best fanfictions in

I cried at the epilogue man...

WhiteBears27: And here I thought my fanfic was good. This puts mine to shame.

Yohnos: Chills litteral chills

I love It

and now i am sad

Guest #5: Some understand the meaning of being a human, whereas, others live with greed and obsessions.

Guest #4: Thanks for the story!

Guest #3: Some people understand the meaning of being a human, whereas, others live with greed and obsessions.

King Crow: I will nominate this fic to canon

hateme101: love this story, just always hated what happened to Jon. Felt like he was cheated out of any chance of a happy ending after everything he did. love it

Guest #2: I must say, I am truly impressed and I thoroughly enjoy your version of GOT. I read a few that involves O.C. but most discontinued, lack character interest, or just end too quickly. Yours on the hand is by far the best one. Thankyou for writing the #1 GOT Fanfic!

PJShiper: amazing simple as that ,one of the greatest if not the greatest fanfic I have ever read , now you need to write a ironborn oc almost none out there maybe a yara x salthusband type of deal but hey that's my suggestion z thanks for the story man . have a great day

alpha: One of the finest fics that I have ever read.

Thank you for the wonderful story.

U deserve a lot more favs and follows

Sad that the people are so idiotic

letsgo123: best fanfic ever

fiend89: I teared up with Sansa dying and Daveth followed. This was such a beautiful story. I loved it!

God of war: Happy ending this was a very good story

jeremiahkelley93: excellent story. great job. I absolutely love it.

Randa1: when I found this story I had more than 100 chapters published ... it was like having a 3 kg nutella container and a teaspoon ... a real feast ... this epilogue is as if with the teaspoon it cleaned the bottom of the container ... - I sigh-, but sooner or later good things come to an end right? ... and as a true glutton I ask: what do you plan to publish later? Do you already have something ready? ... touch wait and see

Adrian Reyes: Someone should make a reading fic for this

Turner1416: Just a great story. My favorite story ever I started reading this when this was at chapter 54 and I just kept on waiting thank you for the story.

Ermin Janes Gerard: What happened to arya, did she find a new continent or did she suffer the same fate of King brandon the shipwright?

—(02/11/2020) Fixed

Devil2024: Awesome story!

GREAT CELESTIAL-DRAGON: Can't believe it's finish! Awesome work!

The MZ-FIT G-MR's Productions: A perfect end to an amazing story.

ZabuzasGirl: And so it ends. Well done.

Tohka123: A lovely ending, really enjoyed it.

Mabeeeeeeeeel: Can someone make a reading fic for this? I just want to know the reaction of the original characters to this.

Guest #1: And Arya?

—(02/11/2020) Fixed

C.E.W: Well done, truly was an amazing story. Longest one I've read in fanfiction. Be proud of yourself. Gotta say, I didn't see Daveth outliving Sansa coming, always thought that Sansa would survive him a third time. Technology he died three times before, but the first was before Sansa was even born so that one don't count.

ABEBOABDU: Loved this story so much man

dragonfox123: Thank you and amazing story

Lord Mortensen: Awesome! Thanks for this story!

The Three Stoogies: This was a great story really glad u finished it. Can't wait to read what u come up with next.

TehStorm: Wow,what a journey.

First i would like to thank you for finishing this amazing story,many authors would have dropped this before reaching 50 chapters,but you kept on writting and giving us entertainment since then and i can only thank you for it,to be honest in my opinion this story is far better than the actual show.

I hope you will be bale to writte another story like this some day,maybe about the targaryens.

Well so thats that,thank you for everything and i wish you luck for whatever comes next on your list.

Felon GT: Great story. The ending should have been a 1000 years to this day. Meanining they still have the familylast name acrive. But with a prime minister being the elected official on the state of the nation. They royal family are more like figure heads like modern day with the UK royal family.

KillerLama: Been here since the 3rd chapter been one hella of a ride. One of the best fanfics had passed.

Chris the Metis: Respectable

RHatch89: It was a helluva ride and I enjoyed every second of it :)

GreatAce50: this story is amazing! brilliant! and wonderful! I love it so much! this is the best game throne fanfiction I ever read

War-Torn Hero: This ending reminds me of the Dragon Age games epilogues in the way it's written. If there was a slide show, it would be better. Thanks for giving us a great story and giving it a fantastic ending. I hope you make more stories like this. Good luck.

randomdude24: it's a rare to find a author who finishes what he started. I've been following your story for a while now, it a beautiful story from start to finish. Be proud of what you've done here!

Masso 2010: Thanks for finishing this amazing story mate, it goes without saying but I will anyway. This is ten times better the original show you created a work of art and you should be beyond proud of what you've done. I dont know if you'll write another story but if you do, u can bet I'll be one of the first to follow and favourite it.

AZW330: Wow man, I've followed this story since about Chapter 50, and it's been a hell of a ride since then. Thank you for such an engaging, detailed, masterpiece of a fic.

mpowers045: "Sniffing" That was the most amazing and touching ending especially with Daveth's last words

mach2: EPIC, BRILLIANT AND CREATIVE! Not more i can say. Mach2 Out.

kira444: I've been with this story since the very beginning and boy was it a long, long adventure. Been a thrill reading this, dude. Until next time.

noobie53: Daaaaah! You got me crying! This is my head canon for the show now!

MazMan3: Thank you for this Story because it's stories like this that I'm glad that I got into fanfiction in the first place.

BioRL: Thanks for the story

When you have time you could write a summary chapter of what happened in the next 1000 years.

Fukage653: Really good story. Thank you.

Ryanwan: This was by far one of the best stories I've ever read. You should be proud of yourself.

10868letsgo: That was beautiful! I gotta say you have made an inspiration to everyone. I hope to hear more of your stories.

Mr. Soze: Its definetely been fun. At times i felt it too cliche or writ in ng having gone to shit but as an epic it was amazing andnit provided every reader with hours upon hours of entertainment and fun. You are a fantastically resilient writer having written such a monstrosity and i salute you. Good luck to all of your future endeavors and I hope to read more bbn of your stories.

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