#asoiaf fic rec

[consistentsquash]

Asoiaf Detailed Rec - Rubicon: A Dreamer's Sextet

Asoiaf Sunday! Easter Sunday so best time to rec a fic about the Failed!Jesus archetype Rhaegar Targaryen. I am actually late by one day but anyway.

TL;DR - He's a total loser. But also the guy who never learned to hate.

My fav author summary ever - She is horny. He is not. They live.

Why Rec - Because using sex for character development and story exposition is valid! Because good ace representation doesn't have to always mean sex repulsed. Because sometimes humans do be complicated and messy. Because established relationship means you have got to keep establishing it. Because het doesn't mean it can't be super queer. Rhaegar is Ace coded with really low/zero sex drive but he's got the kinkiest married sex life and that becomes the biggest building block in their relationship. This is actually my favorite Ace characterization I have personally read.

YMMV - I feel like when a fic deviates from a lot of standard conventions it can be a tough sell. Which is totally understandable. I am reccing it because I loved it. But of course YMMV. These things are subjective. There is a lot of sex for exposition which can also be YMMV.

Big things - This fic won't make sense if you don't have some basic info about their canon.

Ok! Time for details! Sorry if my rec is really bad but I don't go for het fics normally. Also no agegaps. Also they are married. Also they have kids. Stuff I totally nope out of. Idk I mean trust me. It's an eldritcher fic. So it's just really weird/sensitive/brilliant. Nothing is normal.

Will probably clean this up for writing a meta on AO3 later :D If i get the motivation.

Link - Rubicon: A Dreamer's Sextet

Author - eldritcher

Pairing - Rhaegar/Elia. There is also some vibes of Rhaegar/Oberyn but it's complicated.

Type - het, canon divergence, Not canon compliant in the sense Rhaegar, Elia and their children survive

Length - 150000 words. Complete. It's a collection of fics. So depending on whether you read the full thing or just some one shots the length is going to be different. I used the series length here. We get POV one shots from Rhaegar, Elia, Aerys, Rhaella, Arthur Dayne, Rhaenys, Lyanna, Oberyn, Doran. Highly recommend reading the full thing because it's brilliant.

Themes - Asexuality

One of the best parts about this fic. It really said here is this handsome hero archetype everybody crushes on. Also he is Ace. Deal with it. Total sensualist. But you can have sensuality w/o wanting sex. You can also be sex positive. You can also be bi and ace. Like you can be anything and how you feel about things can change from time to time. Mess is ok. Of course it doesn't say it like it. The fic doesn't feel like checklists on good rep. It's just when you read it you get it. YMMV. Idk if that's better than flat out saying things. But this really worked for me. Also the reason why I am writing a het fic rec. Omg.

Themes - Masculinity

Rhaegar's characterization is a meditiation on masculinity. Idk how to explain. But it breaks him down in this flesh and blood style. Really sensitive. Normally in fanfic/romance genre I am more used to seeing sensitive takes on female characters instead of male characters. Especially cishet hero type male characters in a het fic where they can be for wish fulfilment type roles. Slash fic is of course different but also similar. One of the M/M characters generally will get more sensitivity/focus compared to the other character. This is pretty different. The vulnerability/nuance in Rhaegar's characterization is insane.

Themes - Queer

Asoiaf fandom like hp fandom can get pretty weird about what a het fic should be like. Probably not the right place to talk about it. But I feel fanfics can be subversive in a lot of ways. I really love how this fic subverts some fandom concept of a het fic. Rhaegar and Elia are really queer in the sense they are super different. They are not neurotypical, they both have hyperfixations, dysphoria but at like some emotional level. Anyway it's the type of mess idk how to describe because they are super messy humans.

Odd and odd, matched in equal wedlock, and it has become something like felicity.

It really says you can be weird and also the world's biggest loser but you can be happy in a relationship.

Themes - Failure

The biggest win of this fic is the Rhaegar POV. He is a pretty controversial/polarizing character whose motives are unknown/ambiguous in canon. Fandom can get into whitewashing/bashing territory for that type of character.

This fic straight out builds his character as a failure and also makes us sympathize with him. I mean you end up rooting for him because that's how great the character development is.

He carries the rivers he failed to cross.

Themes - Love

A really unconventional love story. But it's definitely love. It's the type of love that just becomes mythological but like without epic soundtracks or montages.

There is a promise in the reek of burned clothes and hair and the man bathed in her water. Something of the father handed to the spouse. It is only a promise. Words are not deeds. It is only a promise, that he will cross this last river to her.

What I really love is how they really fail a lot. Like they make promises and don't succeed like they want. But it's ok. Because trying your best counts! Points for effort! :D

Themes - Hope

I mean! This is an eldritcher fic. Hope is everywhere! The vibe is pretty Tolkien about that. Sometimes you got to believe in stories and that's what you need to get to the other side of some tunnel.

"Nymeria fled the cruel dragon-lords after Garin fell. She took her people with her, on any sea-worthy vessel they could get their hands on. They sailed, for months and months, until months became years. Many perished, many deserted, many rebelled. One night, Nymeria stood at the steer of her vessel, and looked up at the bare sky in despair. Perhaps she prayed to a god. Perhaps she prayed to none. A star rose for her. Bright it was, and enduring. She led her fleet where the star went, south and south and south, until they washed ashore on Dorne. There, waiting for her, beneath the star, was Mors Martell. Gladly, she married him and twined their houses, binding her sun to his spear. He gave her a myrtle crown and taught her about the fruitage of oranges. Thus she became the Dornishman's wife." An old tale Doran liked to tell Oberyn and her when they were children. Her odd husband listens to her raptly. There is a strangeness in him that is not merely dragon-blood or dreams. She thumbs his brows to undo the frown that has settled there. Children believe in stories. And it is belief that gives stories life. "Only a story," she tells him.

Themes - Feminism

Really, really feminist. I mean. Idk how to explain. It is a Rhaegar centric fic. But a male protagonist doesn't have to mean you can't have a fic which is feminist. Rubicon is pretty uncompromising on that. No boss ladies or femme fatale or archetypes like that. But this story in canon is a really slippery one for the Bechdel test. Which means the fic fandom just can get into character/ship bashing and writing female characters like archetypes/pit them against each other. I really love how the fic explores the female character trauma in the canon with a lot of sensitivity.

Characterizations

Book characterizations. No show elements from GOT. But the characterizations are deeper/more nuanced because these are not POV characters in the books. They are dead by the time the books start. Really beautiful interwoven characterizations where you can see Isabel Allende style The House of Spirits influence in their generational trauma. This fic got me from somebody who just didn't like Rhaegar's character to actually seeing him in a more interesting light. Deep and beautiful characterization and character dynamics of the Robert's Era Rebellion Targaryens. The Aerys and Rhaella POVs are insanely good and dark. The Rhaegar characterization is superb. Elia is also brilliantly characterized. The whole series is unforgettable, intense, unsettling, uncomfortable and absolutely a must read.

Plot

It doesn't really have a lot of plot. It's just Rhaegar and Elia from 16 to 40. How their characters change/grow. The plot parts are just the canon divergence because they survive the war and get a bittersweet ending.

Prose

The prose style is kind of less poetic compared to Ossuarium. Which works great because Ossuarium had dragons. By the time this fic happens in the canon timeline the dragons are dead. So their world is less supernatural/magical. The lowkey prose kind of reflects that.

Some other thoughts

Rubicon is Ossuarium honestly. Just a continuation in the canon timeline. It has the same queerness and feminism vibes IMO. YMMV.

Length - 150000 words. Complete. It's a collection of fics. So depending on whether you read the full thing or just some one shots the length is going to be different. I used the series length here. We get POV one shots from Rhaegar, Elia, Aerys, Rhaella, Arthur Dayne, Rhaenys, Lyanna, Oberyn, Doran. Highly recommend reading the full series because it's insanely brilliant.

#acespec #ace rhaegar #rhaegar targaryen #elia martell #gotfic #asoiaf fic rec #fic recs #het fic recs #recs #detailed fic recs #asoiaf #rarepair fic recs #long fic recs #the vibes on this #idk what happened maybe eclipse season but i am writing het fic recs #but this is the queerest het fic i read #so #idk anyway rhaegar the failed jesus

[dreamingdruka]

What’s the Laena fanfic you’re reading please. Need more of her in my life.

oh its an self insert by Loke_Lyon ao3 called the The Blacks, The Greens and the Reds. its a wip, but actively updating. its really good and the wait for the next chapter only makes it better. it'll be a while till anyone gets to that point that though, there's something like 300+ chaptets rn. the worldbuilding here is top notch, i cant get enough of it, and the si 'issue' that people dont like is dealt with in a LOGICAL manner so its not something that bothers anyone anymore, and that 'logic' is why i like this so much ngl.

and now that someone's asked me this, im turning it into a fic rec yay

edit: i forgot to add that its a rhaenyra si, but obvs there is laena too, and laenor, and joffrey, rhaenys, corlys, ample time with viserys, and so many other characters im pretty sure we need an appendix for it now.

also things present in many si's that arent present here: mary sue-ism (really, her knowledge of canon is like not helpful usually), flashbacks to prev life, growing up in a new body etc (these are just the things that i hate in si, the list may be longer for others)

(and yes im trying to convince people to read this gem bcoz i love it sm u have no idea)

#ask.daenaerasmiles #asoiaf #asoiaf fic rec

[satinoflowers]

Just thinking about how jb subverts the “i can fix him” girl trope, brienne is just her amazing morally strong (not perfect ofc but she’s learning too) self and jaime changes FOR HER. FUCKING-

#i want to put jb in my mouth #unrelated but give me fic recs #asoiaf #a song of ice and fire #braime #jaime x brienne #jaime lannister x brienne of tarth #game of thrones #jaime lannister #brienne of tarth #edit: grammar

[evax3]

mom & dad ♡

#rhaegar targaryen #house targaryen #lyanna stark #house stark #rhaegar x lyanna #fic recs anyone? #little obsessed with them lately #rhaelya fanart #prince rhaegar #lady lyanna #asoiaf fanart #a song of ice and fire

[martellspear]

Hey! I love your blog and your dedication to Elia Martell as a character. I have read your fics on ao3 and absolutely loved them. And I was wondering if you had any recs for us Elia enjoyers out there? Canon-compliant or AU it doesn't matter I just want to consume Elia content like there is no tomorrow <3

hi, anon!! thank you for your sweet words, they mean a lot and i'm so happy that you enjoyed my fics 💗. i haven't read many fics - studying is getting in my way -. but, i'll share a list of my favorites ones and my bookmarks.

* warning: it's LONG

First of all, I'd recommend checking Failed_to_Deanon, she's insanely talented and has a lott of elia-centric works

A Farewell by Ramzes - one shot

In the morning of Rhaegar's departure for the Trident, Elia Targaryen makes a surprising discovery about her husband and their marriage.

The Sun Rises Again by amn_elfire - fanfic - 10/?

After her death, the Seven give Elia the task of saving her people from Rhaegar and Lyanna's folly with the opportunity to avenge her children by sending her back in time to before her betrothal with Rhaegar was ever arranged. Or With her prior memories still vivid in her mind, Elia sets out to prevent the events that led to the deaths of thousands while never forgetting who was at fault for the deaths of her children. But she isn't the only one.

All Too Well by starboundheart - fanfic - modern!au - 1/?

Five year after a fairly clean divorce, Rhaegar decides its time for a family vacation - to Summerhall. Under the guise of his children needing to know each other. But as always, the man has ulterior motives. Or does he?

Elia's House of Ghosts! by biohazard603 - fanfic - 3/?

i can't wait to read this one!!

Elia buys her first house! She has always been drawn to that old abandoned tower, the Tower of Joy, and now it was finally hers! Too bad she doesn't know or remember the ghosts that were there first. or Modern AU where Elia buys a haunted house.

clear the board, reset the pieces by lostchildofthenewworld - fanfic - 9/9

All they ever wanted was the opportunity to go back and do it right, to allow themselves to be happy.

The wolf burned like the heat of the sun for her alone by Redroses123 - fanfic - 10/?

Rhaegar has to get rid of his wife so that he can be with the woman he loves. He does this in mad Targaryen fashion. Elia finds herself hitched for life to the second son of Rickard Stark. Maybe it's a blessing in disguise she doesn't understand yet. How will this change fates design. NOT FOR RHAEGAR FANS

Repercussions of the First Sin by Sunspear22 - fanfic - 27/?

It started with a blue crown...

The Bereaved Dunes by aurasjournal - one shot

this one is so beautiful

In the Bereaved Dunes, where shadows weep, A tale of love and sorrow, bound to keep. Elia, my sun, in your memory I tread, Through sands of despair, where tears are shed. I should've taken you far away, my dear, To Dorne's warm embrace, where skies are clear. But fate had other plans, a cruel twist of hand, In the Bereaved Dunes, where sorrows expand.

What if you go, what if you stay by Biggestscarinyourback - fanfic - 4/4

She listens to the eyes of violet and sits down. Her husband's eyes are almost this colour too, she reflects again. But not half as bright, certainly no laughter in them. His are darker, cold as they are soft, a confusing contrast that gives her no reprieve. They should have been burning, The Last Dragon they had called him and yet he lacks any and all fire in those eyes, as far as she has seen. The blood of the dragon runs hot, they had declared, she has it too, running in her veins, burning. A bittersweet look into Princess Elia Martell's life amongst dragons and lions, from the day of her wedding to her tragic demise.

Lazarus in the Sun by Anonymous - fanfic - 3/?

The Princess of Dorne is a marked woman. With her husband victorious at the Trident yet somehow still missing, now more than ever does Elia Martell find herself stuck between a rock and a hard place: to stay in King’s Landing with herself and her two children at the hands of a madman, or to take the jump and escape? A spur of the moment decision turns into a years-long deception as Dorne wrenches her way out of the Seven Kingdoms on the back of a lie. And though peace is finally taking root once more in this corner of the world, no sooner do the gods laugh when an unexpected figure from the past comes back and unsteadies the ground beneath them all.

Hourglass by spearsndragons - fanfic - 11/?

Elia dies and awakes on the day of her wedding. Armed with the memories of her previous life, she is determined not to let them come to pass. She will make the Seven Kingdoms regret they ever underestimated her. In another part of the Red Keep, the Gods of Old Valyria send Rhaegar back in time to fix his wrongs and ensure the survival of House Targaryen. Rhaegar knows his madness and hubris led to the destruction of everything he loves and cares for. Never again. OR AU: The Gods and fate reverse the hands of time. Elia seeks retribution and Rhaegar endeavors for redemption. In one life, they were husband and wife. In this one, they might just be each other’s biggest adversaries. But, while Elia and Rhaegar plan to prevent the tragedies that befell them, they find out they are not the only ones who were given a second chance. And not all who came back are their friends.

we fall apart as it gets dark by sunstealer (TheSunsetStar) - fanfic - 2/?

this one is SO dear to me <3

The apparent abduction of Lyanna Stark sets off a chain of events: Brandon Stark and his allies march to the Red Keep, where Brandon demands Rhaegar's head. A duel is called by Aerys, and fire serves as his champion, leading to the death of Brandon's father and Brandon's own imprisonment. It's only after these events that a letter arrives at Winterfell, written by Lyanna herself, explaining that she left of her own accord. The deaths of the Lord of Winterfell and the Heir of the Eyrie, along with Aerys' demand for the heads of Robert and Ned, ignite a rebellion. Elia, isolated in Kings Landing without her children, must play her role as the dutiful wife. However, complications arise when the man who once demanded her husband’s head becomes her constant companion, the Kingsguard sworn to her. Will she stay true to her duty or follow her husband's example and forsake it?

Sunset Embers by spearsndragons

Five years into King Rhaegar I's reign, the realm prospers under his progressive leadership. However, the same cannot be said for the king's family. Behind the walls of the Red Keep, Rhaegar grapples with his inner demons, and House Targaryen continues to be haunted by the war's tragic end. Water magic resurfaces across the sea in the Golden Empire of Yi Ti for the first time in centuries with the arrival of the Emperor's new wife. She works to uncover the forgotten history of the world, only to realize that her own past refuses to be buried. OR Dark AU: Is this love or a curse? To yearn for freedom while willingly chaining ourselves to someone, finding solace in the very shackles we can't bear to break?

wherever the wind blows by TheSunsetStar - 1/1 (part of a series)

Rhaegar comes back to her, bringing along a wife and child. Ashara comes back to her, grieving the loss of a child with wolfsblood. Oberyn also returns to her, having just returned from his journeys across Essos, offering words of apology. Everyone returns, yet her daughter never does. or in her desperation Elia gives her daughter to Varys and never sees her again.

Reckless by sunstealer (TheSunsetStar)

"Get out," she tells him. "Leave." "You're not going to talk to me?" His voice comes out hoarse; she wonders why. "You've done enough!" she lets out. He looks disappointed when she says it, his eyes clouding over. She almost apologizes for snapping at him. But she reminds herself that he shouldn't be here at all, he shouldn't be here with her. "Goodbye, Rhaegar," she says gently, not allowing any trace of emotion to surface in her voice. The name sounds foreign coming out of her mouth, as though it belongs to someone else. She wishes for the days to go back to before he met Lyanna. Before everything turned sour. Before it was too late. or Rhaegar returns to her but things are difficult now.

Baelon the Cruel and His Queen of Love and Beauty by sunstealer (TheSunsetStar) - fanfic - 6/?

Baelon Targaryen, the second-born son of King Aerys and Queen Rhaella, and the twin brother to Crown Prince Rhaegar, possessed an ethereal beauty expected of one with Valyrian blood. Yet, behind his captivating face, an aura of cruelty and ruthlessness lingered, casting an unsettling shadow over his reputation. And his sudden appearance at the Tourney at Harrenhal unknowingly changes everything. (or just a crack fic about Rhaegar's 'cruel' twin brother and his shenanigans at the famed Tourney at Harrenhal)

Right Where You Left Me by TheSunsetStar - fanfic - 19/19

elia is dead in this one, but she's so important to the story and i love this fic, so it makes the list :)

Rhaegar's life is spared by the valiant intervention of Arthur Dayne, moments before Robert deals the fatal blow. With their lives preserved, Rhaegar and the remaining Targaryens seek refuge on Dragonstone, eventually making their escape to Essos. Regrettably, Rhaegar is forced to leave his eldest daughter behind. Left in the midst of her adversaries, Rhaenys grows up surrounded by those who view her as an enemy. As time passes, she becomes entangled in the treacherous game of thrones, particularly in the aftermath of Cersei and Jaime Lannister's public execution for their incestuous relationship. Caught in a web of schemes and deceit, Rhaenys finds herself compelled to employ similar tactics in order to ensure her own survival.

#a song of ice and fire #elia martell #asoiaf #fanfic #house martell #fic rec

[witchofthevale]

↷ september '23 fave fic recs!⋆☂｡☽˚.

Okay, okay here we go! This nearly killed me to make, so you better read them.

I'm kidding... I think.

Gentle reminder that what I consider 'fave' is by my own personal tastes and preferences, and you might not agree with them and that's okay! These are very lovely authors you can peruse on your own to find the right fic for you, and there are always the tags + algo. Just because your favourite fic isn't here doesn't mean it's not good; it could be potentially for a variety of reasons (I haven't read it yet, I have just not this month, I don't vibe with that character, etc).

That's what I love about the individuality in fandom and writers— there will always be that right fic from that right author that just hits all your good spots.

This is mine. For the month of September. If you find your next favourite fix here— I'm glad! If not, that's still swell! Hope you find it!

To the writers— thank you for writing such brilliant fics! I struggled setting this up because of how many I enjoyed 💝.

Anyways...

More quick reminders!

This is set chronologically; both by character name and by fic title.

If you are familiar with my blog, you will mainly see HOTD, some TLK, then random characters.

There may be smut! There may be dark fiction! I support and consume both! Please read trigger warnings actively! You are responsible for your own person! Community Labels ruin fandom ecosystems, stop snitching! Ignore or block at bloody will!

There are no series parts here. That is in a different display post that is still being processed lol.

If you see repeated author names, it can be numerous things— mostly, they're just that good, okay? Okay.

These are only for September 2023. I've read about 500+ on this account alone, and would die if I tried to go back before then, sorry. You can still check them out through tag navigation here!

I've also added some of my works that I enjoyed writing for the month, because why not.

Now that's fucking over, I hope you enjoy!

ABRAHAM (Grantchester)

*Untitled Piece by @ewanmitchellcrumbs

AEGON TARGARYEN II

Ceilings by @sapphire-writes

Lemon Cake To My Tea by @darlingofvalyria

Merciless or Ruthless? by @lovelykhaleesiii

Moan for Me by @st-eve-barnes

AEMOND TARGARYEN

A Mutual Feeling of Hate by @fan-goddess

Gelato by @oneeyedvisenya

Hell Hath No Fury @fromforeigntofamiliarity

His Love by @valeskafics

I'm A Fire, And I'll Keep Your Brittle Heart Warm by @randomdragonfires

Revolution by @valeskafics

The Black Stag by @darlingofvalyria

Til Death Do Us Part by @asumofwords

Unnerved by @dulcewrites

*Untitled by @ewanmitchellcrumbs

*Untitled by @missglaskin

Vulnerability by @valeskafics

ALDHELM

My Heart by @silens-oro

BILLY TAYLOR

The Perfect Send Off by @ewanmitchellcrumbs

BILLY WASHINGTON

Lonely This Christmas by @ewanmitchellcrumbs

DAEMON TARGARYEN

Ask, and You Shall Receive by @ewanmitchellcrumbs

A Thousand Words by @arabellasleopardcoat

Capital by @arabellasleopardcoat

Curse of Womanhood by @just-some-random-blogger

*Untitled by @barbiedragon

Valyrian Bride by @cryingforlife

HARALD SIGURDSSON

A Political Arrangement by @valeskafics

JACAERYS VELARYON

In Bastards of Blue, Wager in War by @darlingofvalyria

MAEGOR TARGARYEN

Little Lights by @dreamsofoldvalyria

OSFERTH

Lacnunga, Or, Remedy by @assortedseaglass

SIGTRYGGR IVARSSON

Little Warrior by @ewanmitchellcrumbs

SIHTRIC KJARTANSSON

Hours by @valeskafics

It's Urgent Darling by @sihtricfedaraaahvicius

Take No Wife by @valeskafics

TOM BENNETT

A Good Wife by @valeskafics

Rest by @fidelias

VISERYS TARGARYEN III

*Untitled by @barbiedragon

MULTIPLE CHARACTERS

Conquerors Reborn by @undertheorangetree | Helaena, Aemond x Reader

El Tango De Roxanne by @valeskafics | Jace, Aemond x Reader

Royalty Fucked by @oorhaellaoo | Baelon, Alyssa x Reader

#fanfiction recommendation #hotd x reader #tlk x reader #vikings x reader #abraham x reader #billy washington x reader #asoiaf x reader #tom bennett x reader #2013 💋 Fic Recs #💋 September 2023 #the witch's fic recs 💋

[bookishcarmela]

Smoke, Fire and Ash by @asumofwords is a fic I’m absolutely obsessed with

So after a few years of being on here and not posting anything I decided there’s no better place to start this journey than with creating a piece of the main character from one of my favorite fics.

Smoke, Fire and Ash is one of my all time favorite fics and is definitely a most read❤️

#fic rec #digital art #aemond x reader #house of the dragon #hotd fanart #asoiaf fanart #fanart #house targaryen

[rhaenicentsaid]

ᴛʜᴇ ʟᴏɴɢ ᴡᴀʏ ᴀʀᴏᴜɴᴅ

ihaveaplan • ao3 • ongoing

synopsis: Alicent and Rhaenyra have been best friends almost from their very first meeting in their freshman year of college. They've been through a lot together, not least of all the COVID pandemic and Alicent's atypical cystic fibrosis diagnosis. They have an apartment together in Brooklyn, a cat, and a life together neither of them are eager to set aside. Things become immensely more complicated, though, when Rhaenyra's estranged father dies and leaves her his staggering wealth... and his other three children, all under the age of five.

#alicent hightower #house of the dragon #rhaenicent #rhaenyra x alicent #hotd #incorrect quotes #rhaenyra targeryan #rhaenyra targaryen #asoiaf #ao3 fanfic #fic rec

[pixiecactus]

🍂​book!(mostly)gendrya fanfic rec (part one)🍂​

oh boy this is a doozy, so here they are the first one to twenty, most of the summaries were written by me, so if you ask yourself why the summary is really shitty and not appealing, that's why. a high number of these fics are restricted so you'll need a ao3 account to be able to see them. any kind of triggering content i put with the corresponding warnings, same with any minor pairings featured and finally if the fic contains smut (so if that is not a thing you're interested in reading you can skip it)

➤the rabbit by aneedleofmyown - arry and gendry banter/friendship back when they were travelling with the night watch's recruits

➤out of the dark by schwoozie - arry and gendry share a bedroll/cloak on their way north as night watch's recruits

➤my forest lass by theviolentdelight - smut - before the battle against the others arya visits gendry's tent - future au

➤cold by callioope - arya returns to the inn at the crossroads, gendry does not recognize her - future au

➤lay me down by elenei - smut - gendry sees arya wearing a dress once again and pretty much my featherbed starts playing - future au

➤the tilt by acornsandravens - smut - jon arryn sends gendry to the vale and he end up as a knight during the bolton and frey rebellion. arya and gendry meet at a tourney with good old stubborn arya and good old stubborn gendry - canon divergence - arranged marriage - minor bran/meera

➤cloaked by acornsandravens - smut - five times arya and gendry share a cloak and one time they share a cloak with someone else - future au

➤sapling by elephant_eyelash - arry, gendry and hotpie friendship, arry teaches gendry and hotpie about nature

➤conversations with dead people by prettyy_vacant - gendry sees dead people when he's at the crossroads, i know it sounds like a modern au, but it's not - future au

➤forest love by elenei - arya is confused and scared about her feelings for gendry cue godswood love confessions - future au - really minor daenerys/jon - (fic has talks about gendry and lordship)

➤wild forest lass by persuade_me - arya is never found after the fight with joffrey at the trident, she and nymeria have been surviving alone for years until she is found by the inn's blacksmith where she was trying to get produce - canon divergence

➤ser gendry of the hollow hill by vanillamostly - gendry's pov during and after the red wedding do i need to say anything more

➤caught a long wind by macneiceisms - domestic gendrya, arya and gendry arguing about their family sigil - future au

➤warmth by madaboutasoiaf - arya and gendry friendship during the bwb days and the end of said friendship a little bit angsty

➤dream by madaboutasoiaf - gendrya reunion, a really heartfelt one - future au

➤the first one by aliceinwonderunderground - lovely gendrya reunion - future au

➤there us no word for bull in old valyrian by bluethunder - i know that this fic has lord of storm's end gendry, but most importanly has past cat of the canals x young griff, a rare pair that i found actually fun, so this is aegon meeting arya again and trying to woo her and arya is having none of that also it has dany as a interpreter and a reversal in the targaryen-stark-baratheon debacle of old time - future au

➤the green eyed monster by joyblue - going to copy the fic summary because it's perfect, times the green eyed monster visited catelyn, ned, jon, sansa and gendry all because of arya. it has gendry being legitimized by stannis, but he doesn't get storm's end - canon divergence

➤fair gendry & ser arya the gallant by macneiceisms - smut - forge sex with first times and love confessions other than arya saying that sansa would understand her wanting to be with gendry and not be betrothed to some lord (we know sansa would not) is pretty much perfect - fluffy fluff - future au

➤don't go without me by like_a_dove - gendrya childhood friends in winterfell, basically gendry is hidden in winterfell and you know how it goes with this couple - friend to lovers, but arya is betrothed to lord edric dayne of starfall and their time together is coming to an end - canon divergence

#a song of ice and fire #asoiaf #house stark #arya stark #gendry #gendrya #arya x gendry #gendry x arya #gendrya fic rec #arya x gendry fic rec #gendry x arya fic rec #i honestly think this will take me over ten parts

[consistentsquash]

Detailed Fic Rec - Ossuarium

ASOIAF Wednesday!

Super excited to rec one of the most brilliant fics I have read in any fandom! It does the impossible by combining book and show canon to deliver character studies with consistent characterizations and subtle recurring themes that build up into masterful storytelling on a bigger scale.

Structure - The series is based on Liszt's Symphonic Poems. Like the music which inspired it, the fic uses one-shots with interwoven themes and character motifs to build a bigger, overarching theme. Think about it like a Dr. Who series written by Moffat. Lots of complex and recurring themes but each episode in the series is a standalone you can read on its own. The POVs are unreliable but we get multiple POVs from characters and the full story really comes together without confusion.

Rec note - Recs are based on my reading. They are subjective based on what I like.

 Fic details

Ossuarium on AO3 by eldritcher (2022)

Length - 65000 words.

Rating - G to M

Summary - Soon.

Warnings - I didn't see any Major Archive Warnings or triggers in the fics. But the fics can feel heavy because of the canon angst. The writing has an insidious, lingering buildup which can make the emotions hit harder after reading.

 Description

The series is around 65000 words. It switches between multiple POVs of the Targaryen family characters. The one-shots are essentially character studies. The plot happens in the interwoven themes. It's a really unique series construction.

Talk about perfect summaries - The Soon in the summary is literal and allegorical. The sense of danger and suspense buildup as the events start getting out of control for the characters is really, really vivid.

 Pairings

Het, Slash, Femslash.

The main pairing is Daemon/Rhaenyra, but it is in context of the dysfunctional family relationships Daemon, Viserys and Rhaenyra have with each other. The relationship between the brothers is really, really messed up in classic Targ style. Similarly the Rhaenyra/Alicent relationship is also super messed up.

 Characterizations

I haven't read better characterizations for Daemon, Viserys or Rhaenyra anywhere else. The themes and the motifs build them into living, breathing characters with their own character journeys and regressions.

The side characters like Alicent, Laena, Rhaenys, Corlys and other family are also super fleshed out and come alive.

The standout characterizations are for the dragons. Caraxes and Vhagar are going to make you cry. I am not joking.

 Going Deeper

The prose is lyrical and musical. If you are reading with a screen-reader you are in for a treat because of the pacing/word choices making everything sound like a Leonard Cohen album.

Eldritcher’s writing is deeply emotional without being melodramatic. It is really brilliant how the symbolism and metaphors connect the generational trauma to the story and to the main characters.

The character voices have different styles of prose but there is a common writing style that creates the vibe of the series. Literally almost every other line is a quote you can frame on your wall.

 Soon the virgin

Relationship - Rhaenyra/Daemon

POV - Rhaenyra.

Blurb - The first fic of the series. A Rhaenyra character study that establishes the characterizations for Rhaenyra and Daemon and sets the context for their relationship dynamics. Although there is no Viserys appearance in this fic, we also get to see how much he has influenced their lives.

Why I love it - I am really picky about power dynamics in relationships where there are seriously messed up conflicts of interest and relative power differences. Rhaenyra calls the shots here. She is in control. The inverted power dynamics works brilliantly.

She will have to do everything herself. She does not mind. She knows what to do. She raps a finger on his mouth. He opens for her, with a smile and a sigh. She dips her finger into his throat, and withdraws with a scratchy caress of the roof of his mouth. He laughs with his eyes when she punishes his restraint by dealing a sharp pinch to his tongue.

 Soon the burning youth

Relationship - Viserys/Daemon

POV - Viserys

Blurb - Viserys and Daemon in a nutshell. Really messed up. Really Targaryen. Really brilliant at maximum self-sabotage. We get to see how complementary they really are but of course their egos and self-sabotage are out of control. The canon war has a lot of causes. But this is definitely one of the biggest problems which leads to the war.

Why I love it - This is Viserys. He is absolutely a Targaryen. His internal voice is extra Targaryen as if compensating for his external personality presentation. But he is really indecisive and all about that sweet self-sabotage. A really complicated personality with big grudges and deep love.

You wished that you could hit him. You wished that you could kick him in the guts once more. You wished that you could loom over him and watch his misery. His misery was as much of his making as it was of yours. You beheld it and wept for his unhappiness. You beheld it and delighted in his loneliness.

 Soon the wedding hymn

Relationships - Rhaenyra/Daemon, Viserys/Daemon

POV - Viserys

Blurb - Viserys obsessing about Rhaenyra and Daemon. Because he is that obsessed with his brother and really committed to self-sabotage. This is one of the most intense fics of the series.

Why I love it - Viserys and Daemon have a lot of common traits. But right before Viserys dies, we get to see how their character journeys took them in different directions. Daemon's character change is incredible. Viserys, on the other hand, is stuck in the past. Daemon was more about living in the moment compared to Viserys and it really shows in this fic.

He would not beg you again, you feared. He had Rhaenyra. He might thrive with her.

If he were your sister—

 Soon the maiden's thirds

Relationships - Alicent/Rhaenyra, Daemon/Rhaenyra

POV - Alicent

Blurb - Alicent characterization is incredible in this fic. She has a ton of contradictions in her personality and how she presents herself to different people. Who is Alicent actually?

Why I love it - It's heartbreaking and brilliant how the series characterizes gender role and presentation. Alicent maybe is the most affected because of the "box" of gender roles she's got to deal with. You get to see sort of a mindbreak because instead of performing a role her personality gradually changes to become that. It's really heartbreaking. The psychology in this series is incredible.

It should be Alicent at her side. It should be Alicent's hands about her.

 Soon the light on Olympus

Relationship - Daemon/Rhaenyra, Daemon/Viserys

POV - Daemon

Blurb - This is the most fascinating fic in the series. Daemon POV! We get to see inside his head! His characterization is a standout in this series and we get to see that from his own POV here.

Why I love it - The love he has for his family plus his pretty whacky ideas about how they are superior makes this a winner. He's definitely not the type you want to hire for a 9 to 5 desk job in Customer Support.

Viserys pleased everyone else. He wanted his brother to please him. And Daemon, Daemon did not have it in him to please anyone at all.

 Soon the untended wedlock

POV - Rhea

Blurb - Rhea Royce is written with a really good characterization. You feel pity and sympathy for her situation. But at the same time you also feel sad about Daemon. Jeyne Arryn is Rhea's BFF and she is the type of BFF everybody needs in their life. She calls it like she sees it.

Why I love it - The Rhea characterization is perfection.

It needn't have come to this. Viserys could have annulled their marriage when he became King. He could have wedded his daughter to his brother. Rhea could then have married another.

 Soon the vestal bride

Relationship - Alicent/Rhaenyra, Daemon/Rhaenyra

POV - Alicent

Blurb - Alicent feels really betrayed after she understands that Rhaenyra lied to her.

Why I love it - The relationship between Alicent and Rhaenyra is amazing. We get to see the death of the relationship they used to have as friends with some romance going on. But Alicent hasn't totally given up her love yet. Alicent's characterization and motivation is incredible here. Is it just performative? Does she actually believe in what she is doing?

Alicent cannot be Rhaenyra's lover. So she will be Rhaenyra's mother.

 Soon the feasting troth

Relationships - Daemon/Rhaenyra, Daemon/Viserys

POV - Viserys

Blurb - Viserys at the Royal Wedding being jealous of everybody and everything.

Why I love it - Because Viserys! He is so hyperaware about Daemon and Rhaenyra. Daemon is amazing in this fic. The good and the bad parts of the relationship between the siblings really shine here.

The food was sliced neatly into chunks that a man with only one good hand could eat. No tender morsel that was served at the royal feast. Sheep. The meat was charred by open flame. And when you took a bite, it warmed you as only dragon-warmth could. Brother feasted on brother's troth.

 Soon the espoused sea

Relationships - Corlys/Rhaenys, Viserys/Rhaenys

POV - Rhaenys

Blurb - BAMF Rhaenys is the real deal. We get to see a snapshot of her life before she is removed from the succession.

Why I love it - Queen Rhaenys was probably a better choice. Jaeherys the Misogynist didn't get that. But we get to see that her own cousins including Viserys are on her side here. Yay! Fic giving us the soul food we need!

"What you have seen and done... I have lived so little, Lord Corlys. I am afraid you will tire of me."

"You crawled up the volcano's heart to claim a dragon." Boldly, despite Grandmother's vigil, he bent to kiss my brow. "I have waited for a woman like you for decades. Do you truly think that I would make a mistake now?"

 Soon the hymen-song

Relationships - Daemon/Rhaenyra

POV - Rhaenyra

Blurb - We love a man who isn't scared about giving up some control some of the time. We love a girl working through her body image issues and accepting herself. So this fic is like total wish fulfillment for us.

Why I love it - The fic uses intimacy for psychological character study. What's not to love? Really really beautiful and healing fic.

He kissed her for her boldness, and she knew once more what it was to delight.

 Soon a more cruel fire

Relationship - Corlys/Rhaenys/Daemon

POV - Corlys

Blurb - Crackship? Think again. This fic makes it work and makes you root for these three.

Why I love it - The trust these three have is off the charts.

Rhaenys wanted her uncle once. She wanted Baelon Targaryen. Baelon died heartbroken after his wife's death in the birthing bed. He left behind two children. One became King. The other stands at the threshold of your chambers, gauging the lay of the land.

 Soon the juvenal

Relationship - Laena/Daemon

POV - Laena

Blurb - The softest and also the most sensual fic in the series. Laena is a BAMF character but her characterization and story is more compliant with book canon. Wholesome and sweet.

Why I love it - Justice for Laena! The context and the payoff is really good here. The prose is like honey.

She left her perch by the window and joined him at the threshold, so that she might grab the ends of her skirt and mop the sweat from his brow. He looked at her as the men in the bazaar below looked at the painted girls. Want was a warm and homely thing, in wedlock's embrace. She took him by the hand and led him to the fat table where was arrayed their supper of amber wine and spelt bread and sheep's cheese.

 Soon the god's hoar

POV - Vhagar

Blurb - The angstiest fic in the series. Vhagar has seen a lot and is really tired. She wants a rider who won't ask her to participate in any wars.

Why I love it - Because we get to see how much the Targaryen dragons suffered because of their riders. It's horrible. I cried.

Three she had wedded. One to war. The other to grief. The last to hearth. One more. The hearth was not made for loneliness. Even a god feared loneliness, when her dominion was the hearth.

 Soon the close-clinging daughter

Relationship - Rhaenyra/Daemon (background)

POV - Rhaena

Blurb - All the feels! Rhaena and Daemon bonding with some great father-daughter moments including dragons.

Why I love it - Daemon connecting with his daughter. Because he is trying to be a good father. This is a really brilliant contrast because of Viserys doing a bad job of connecting with Rhaenyra after Aemma's death. We get to see the difference between the brothers here.

A close-clinging daughter sought mother's comfort once. A close-clinging daughter shielded her father as he wept.

 Soon the fortunate hour

POV - Otto Hightower

Blurb - Most of the fics in this fandom are pro-Blacks. This fic is pro-Green because it is written from Otto's POV. It adds a lot of complexity and nuance about his motivations.

Why I love it - Because Otto is intense. His POV is a really close third person and it has this suffocating feeling. Like things are about to get out of control really soon.

Otto hopes that Daemon gets the wretched girl with child. The closer Daemon binds Rhaenyra to him, the farther the lords of the realm will want her from the throne and the quicker they will be to support Aegon. Even Viserys would have to set them aside then.

 Soon the vine to elm

POV - Caraxes

Blurb - If you read only one fic from this fandom, it needs to be this.

Why I love it - Because this is the best fic in the series in my subjective opinion. It is brilliant, poignant and encompasses everything about the symbiotic dynamics of the Targaryen family and their dragons.

Theirs is a warped and malformed bond, where ou steers instead of being steered. Daemon trusts ou to steer.

 Ossuarium

Relationship - Viserys/Daenerys

POV - Viserys

Blurb - It's really fitting how the last fics of the series are written in two sibling POVs from Viserys and Dany because they mirror the Viserys and Daemon sibling relationship which we got to see in the earlier fics.

Why I love it - Viserys is intense and really, really psychologically damaged. You won't like him because he isn't likable. But you are going to feel sorry for him just like you felt sorry for King Viserys in the first fics in this series. The mirroring is fantastic. Phenomenal characterization work for Viserys and Dany.

The third Viserys taught his sister-daughter-wife and fed her their mother's crown. She stands beside her war-husband and ushers in the ossuarium of her house.

Soon the—

Rec note - THIS! THIS IS WHERE WE GET TO SEE THE PAYOFF! The titles build up the suspense and the danger until we get to see the final payoff in this fic. It's tragic. Of course it's tragic. The Targaryens are a really tragic family. But it's also incredible to see how low they fall because of their self-sabotage and generational trauma.

 Sovngarde

Relationship - Drogon/Daenerys

POV - Drogon

Blurb - I know the pairing is insane af. But you won't regret giving the fic a chance. It's really beautiful.

Why I love it - We get to see a codependent relationship explored in more of the classic Star Trek scifi style without fetishization. This definitely is NOT what you are expecting. SFW. A beautiful concluding fic where we get to see the Targaryens and the dragons finally accepting the blood magic that got them connected in the first place. It's also a great GOT S8 fixit for people who care about that. You can see all her Targ ancestors showing up in Dany's characterization. Especially love how we get to see Daemon's personality in her characterization. Similarly Drogon also has a lot of similar characterization with the other dragons in the series like Caraxes and Vhagar. The Targaryen family completes their full circle here.

Ou took her home, to the new circle of fourteen that rose out of the Great Grass Sea. The horse-people had taken to leaving fat goats at mountains' root, to appease the dragons that lived within.

 Subjective Stuff

Like any media/content there are going to be things that don't work for some readers/consumers.

A lot of fans are Daemyra only OTP fans. They are probably not going to vibe with the series because of its multi shipping angle though the biggest relationship is definitely Daemyra.

A lot of fans don't read gen/slash/femslash. They probably won't vibe with the series because it contains literally everything.

Spoilers for the books. If you are a show only fan who doesn't want spoilers reading the series is probably a bad idea.

The prose. It is some of the best prose I have read in published media/fanfic. Eldritcher has an unreal level of control and precision when it comes to prose. But that surgical precision can definitely weird out some readers.

 Final thoughts

10/10. The series is also holding up awesome on rereads. There is a ton of lore and psychology here which means you are going to discover something new each time you reread. This is a difficult series to write a good rec about. Because there are a lot of brilliant and unique features about the characterizations, dynamics and prose it's hard to just pick One Good Thing. If that isn't an indicator of a great fic I don't know what else is.

I was just going to rec selected fics from this series. But it was impossible to choose. I ended up reccing everything because it's one of the rare series without a single dud.

 So!

This series is now solidly in my Fandom top-5. Incredible, fantastic, brilliant one of a kind work.

#fic recs #detailed fic rec #ossuarium #asoiaf fic rec #house of the dragon fic rec #daemyra fic rec #daemyra #daemon targaryen #house targaryen #dysfunctional family #generational trauma #het fic recs #slash fic recs #brothers who definitely need therapy #femslash fic recs #rhaenyra x alicent #rhaenicent #alicent also needs therapy #dragons also need therapy #because the targaryens are seriously wild #prose fic recs #eldritcher #eldritcher is always so good #but also intense #need to cry now #need fluffy fics #recs

[alleyskywalker]

do you have any theyne fic recs? I already went through your entire catalogue and I am unwell 😭

gfnsjlkgf I knowwww, there are really not enough Theyne fics! (If by my catalogue you mean what I have up on AO3 for them...somehow it's only like 4 fics?/ I gotta find a way to write more for them.) Anyway, really wish I was better at bookmarking/remembering the fics I've read lol. But here are some truly amazing ones ❤

Take My Hand as the Sun Descends by MymbleHowl / @st-clements-steps (E; 9,266)

So anyone who knows me knows I'm not into porn like at all but DAMN this fic is just so good in every way, including the sex. Just brilliant characterization and a happy ending post-canon. Just everything you could want for this ship.

Afterlife by silverapples (M; 49,711)

The theyne novel we all need in our lives. This one starts more immediately post-canon so there's lots of angst. Theon and Jeyne go through this absolutely excruciating (in the best way) roller coaster of learning to live again (especially Theon), falling in love, going home, falling apart, and ending up together again. Tender and romantic and frustrating at times where you just want to shake them (especially Theon lol) but so good in the end.

a sparrow alighted upon our shoulder by oceaniads / @oceaniads (T; 3,053)

Beautiful and sweet fic. If you're looking for fluff with Theon and Jeyne happily married, this is the one! A fic for the shipper's soul, so to speak :D

Stormwatching by cealtrachs (G; 932)

This one's more gen, but it can easily be read as ship (and they're married so....) Gorgeously written, with lovely domesticity and care and friendship.

waltzing with the open sea by oceansoflove (T; 4,352)

So, just as I'm not a porn person, I'm also generally not a modern AU person, but I really loved this fic. It's probably my fave theyne modern AU. The writing/style is wonderful and if you're looking for an angst with a happy ending modern teenage romance AU, this is the one!

#theyne #theon x jeyne #fic recs #fanfiction #asoiaf #theon greyjoy #jeyne poole #asked and answered #op #i am always unwell about them anon

[lemoncakz]

art thou pale for weariness by wispenwillows

—‘Ghosts are real. This much, Sansa knows.’

Sir Jon Snow, baronet, arrives in New York City on a black barouche, seeking a bride. Miss Sansa Stark is ready to be swept away from the grief and sorrow of being suddenly—and violently—orphaned. But Jon is not who he says, their marriage is not what it seems, and the ghosts who haunt the decaying halls of Dragonstone Manor bear her a dire warning: their bodies are buried somewhere on these grounds, and she may be well on her way to joining them.

#my post #media #jonsa fic #jonsa #jon snow #sansa stark #asoiaf #fanfiction #jonsa fic rec

[msmorningstaarr]

Holy and Heathen - 6 (Defiance.)

Pairing: young!Oberyn MartellxF!Original Hightower Character

Word count: 5.7k

Chapter Warnings: domestic violence;

ao3 | masterlist

SUMMARY: Lady Melara Hightower is the youngest daughter of Lord Leyton Hightower and has a distinct, serious and pious personality. She is sent to serve the Faith as a Septa, but her destiny suddenly changes once she becomes betrothed to the heir of Dorne, Prince Oberyn Martell. She sees herself living in a land far from hers with distinct habits, dealing with many divergences and a husband far more wild than she could ever expect. Would she be capable of lighting the way of her mind and heart?

(Except for Melara Hightower, all characters do not belong to me but to George RR Martin, author of the 'A Song of Ice and Fire' book series.)

Taglist: @princessanglophile @hiroikegawa @hiraethrhapsody

Before you read: I'm so sorry taking so long to update. Life has been a mess lately but here I stand! Thank you all who wished me well on my last post. <3

Melara

“You look marvellous, my princess.” Melessa finished braiding the last section of her lady’s hair in front of the mirror. Melara touched her skin gently, feeling the slight sensation of overheating.

“Thank you, Melessa.” Melara said, still looking at her own reflection. The heat burning her skin provoked the flush on her cheeks due to the intense sun of Dorne. The princess stood up, pushing the fabric on her tail so it wouldn’t get stuck on the small bench in front of her vanity. 

“The dornish climate agrees with you, princess.” Lys grinned, joining her hands in awe with Melara, who nodded calmly. 

“I fear I’m not as accustomed as I thought I would be with the weather, in truth,” Melara replied, caressing the silk covering her body. Her garment was red with a silk that came from Qarth, no sleeves and a cleavage bigger than usual. Although her curves were often praised, Melara felt uncomfortable with so many parts of her body on display. One way or another, Oberyn expressed his desire to see Melara with more dresses that exposed her body and wearing jewellery with pendants in the shape of suns. The princess found his request reasonable and wore it to honour him, even when he was not around.

The marriage so far was not the worst thing that could happen to her. Oberyn lavished her with gold, gifts and dresses to amend their complex beginning and his current absence. He sang for her in the nights they coupled and was slow in the moment, never taking her clothes off or trying to do the things that made her feel distressed. He penetrated her with ease, spreading her legs and eagerly going in and out between the apex of her thighs, making Melara forget for some brief moment all the thoughts in her mind. The dornish Prince seemed slightly annoyed by the incessant wish to not do bedding on his way, but he had no other option but to respect her.

“It is only a matter of time, my princess.” Megga said, applying some lavender oil in her lady’s fists and behind her ears. “We seem to be living inside the sun, but Dorne is beautiful.”

Melara nodded and curved her lips on a coy smile. “I am not sure if my skin will handle the weather. Oldtown was not as warm as Dorne is.”

She missed the wind. Even in the Water Gardens, where she was surrounded by exotic trees, their shadows and pools, the heat was overwhelming. She missed the Starry Sept, her simple attire, her small window and the matutine breeze she would feel when she was praying before her chores. Even missed Lya spilling a handful of words. Even missed Hightower, with Lynesse and Alysanne laughing at her when she missed a stitch on an embroidery lesson and their Septa slapped her hands until Melara would do it accurately. She missed Septon Lowan forgetting about her former choice of joining the faith and asking her to go back home. Now, she felt homeless, drowning her body in the dunes of sand.

“We will make sure you keep your beauty intact, princess. ‘Tis we assure you.” Lys guaranteed, giving Melara a glass of water.

“Thank you.” She said, after drinking a sip of the fresh liquid. And then, the girls heard a knock on her door.

“My lady, may I come inside?” It was Ysilla on the outside. Melara nodded at her handmaidens and Lys headed towards the chambers’ door to open it, proceeding with a bow at the princess in respect.

“Mother.” Melara left her goblet over a small table and approached her mother by law. “Is very pleasing to have your company today.” Then, the young princess signed for Lys, Megga and Melessa to leave the two alone.

Ysilla raised her eyebrow and expressed some confusion while her eyes travelled Melara up and down. “My lady, is that Elia’s dress that you are wearing?”

Melara looked puzzled at Ysilla and immediately changed the look on her face to embarrassment. Why would Oberyn present her with a dress that belonged to another lady? A sudden ache hit her heart.

“Mother, princess… I had no idea it belonged to Princess Elia…” Melara replied, nervously. “Oberyn presented me with this dress. I can switch right now and return it to Elia’s former chambers…”

Ysilla grabbed her hands gently and smiled, cutting her words. “No need, princess. My princeling son values his sister too much and I am sure he had the very best of intentions in presenting you with one of her dresses. You look splendid.”

Melara noticed a strange feeling coming from Ysilla’s eyes. Growing up around Lady Rhea made her quite sensitive to mood swings and Melara could sense something about her new mother not being happy about the dress. The young princess felt anxious and fiddled her hands behind her back, lowering her head.

“I have a letter for you.” Ysilla changed the subject, delivering her a small envelope. “From Bear Island.”

Melara raised her gaze and narrowed it, eagerly holding the piece of paper. She exhaled and felt relieved that Lynesse replied to her last letter. “Lynesse.”

“Would you mind reading it later? I have a few things to show you today.” Ysilla headed to the door, expecting Melara to follow her. The young girl nodded and left the letter over her desk and walked alongside Ysilla through the hallway.

“Can I trust the statement that Oberyn is treating you well?” She asked, caressing her own nails.

Melara nodded. “He is very kind, my lady. I could not ask for a better husband.”

Ysilla sighed and looked at a blank spot. “Good. I hope that you give me more grandchildren very soon.” More. Melara had forgotten the fact that Oberyn had two bastard daughters. She had mixed feelings over this, but none of them could be considered to be good. Melara knew from the beginning that the dornish had other approaches when it came to bastards, however, raising them inside the castle as if they were trueborn children was something beyond her understandment. The blonde princess had no wish to meet them and neither had any sort of interest in knowing their names. Her lips curled on a pout and nodded gently as Ysilla spoke. She discreetly frowned and agreed. “Yes, mother. I will provide for more children.” Her words carried a hint of bitterness and felt ashamed for it, but her mind found this situation distasteful and concerning. In a land where women can inherit, Melara feared one of them could try to claim and steal her future son’s birthright. Melara knew she needed to be wise. 

“Which leads me to another subject,” The mother sighed. “I believe you spent too much time retreating in the Water Gardens, my lady.” Melara narrowed her eyes. “It is time for you to return to Sunspear and be prepared besides Oberyn. Your absence is already being noticed at court.”

“Oberyn commanded me to stay in the Water Gardens.” The girl replied, muttering.

“And I command you to return to Sunspear, my dear.” Ysilla smirked. “I already demanded that the servants take all your things to your new chambers at the Old Palace. I have no wish to interfere on your marital agreement with my son, but I do hope you understand your role as his wife.”

“I promise to improve my demeanour, my lady.” Melara said, looking at a distant tree. 

“In the future, your child will marry Elia’s child. Which means that House Martell will maintain our strict bond with the Iron Throne,” Ysilla caressed her good daughter’s back whilst they walked. “You must be aware of politics to teach your children as well.”

Melara went mouth dried and disconcertedly agreed with her. “Of course, mother.”

"It may seem daunting at first, my dear, but you have the intelligence and strength to control these intricacies. And you will not be alone; I'll be here to guide you.” Ysilla smiled, assuring Melara.

And after an awkward silence, Ysilla spoke. “Are you well acclimated with Dorne? Is the cook of your liking?”

“Yes. The food is rather spicy but I am growing quite fond of it, although I miss a few things from the Starry Sept.” She replied, numbly. The food was one of her favourite things so far. Melara never considered liking spicy foods and the sweetness of the dornish wine, however, the first time she tried a roasted lamb covered with a special pepper and potatoes, she knew food would be the least of her problems. Melara also enjoyed being left alone in the Water Gardens, seeing the bright pools and the sea of Dorne by her window. Now, the bright princess had to go back to Sunspear and live her duty by Oberyn’s side. She could not help but feel insecure about Oberyn. She was unhappy to be married at all and scared Oberyn would be bothered by having her back on a regular frequence. Melara wanted to bury herself into faith once more and live her invisible life. Being a lady was an overwhelming existence.

“You are indeed committed to the faith and I can see it. It is quite admirable, my lady.” Ysilla said, raising her eyebrows.

Melara curled her lips and joined her hands, exhaling before her words came out. “The Gods are good, my lady. We must spread their words and values to our next ones.”

“I am not a religious woman myself, I must admit. But it’s quite impressive to see your commitment to faith. It is inspiring.”

Melara blushed and joined her hands. “Your words honours me deeply, mother.”

“You and Oberyn may not come to realise it yet, but you have needed skills. Involuntarily, Oberyn got the best match for him when he sent your sister away.” Melara felt a warmth, similar to a heartburn and her feet seemed to fly above the floor in pride for all she just heard. Ysilla was the only person she felt as closest to a true friend she ever had. “Religion speaks volumes when it comes to influencing people, my lady. You’ll learn to use it in your favour and Oberyn as well.”

Ysilla continued leading Melara through the castle, her eyes keenly observing the young princess's reactions. Melara could not send away the uneasiness that had settled within her since the mention of Oberyn's daughters. She wondered about the dynamic they would share if they ever cross paths.

As they walked through the corridors adorned with tapestries and the rich colours of House Martell banners, Ysilla began to discuss the responsibilities and expectations that came with being the Lady of Sunspear. Melara listened intently, trying to absorb the information that was being imparted to her. The weight of her role began to dawn on her, and she felt a mixture of excitement and trepidation.

Ysilla spoke of diplomacy, alliances, and the delicate balance of power in the region. Melara nodded along, realising the entanglements of her position. It was a far cry from the days of her childhood in Oldtown, where the concerns were more dull and shallow. She missed the cold, crisp air at that moment.

The two women entered a room adorned with maps and scrolls spread across a large table and enormous walls filled with books. That library remembered the one from Hightower and her eyes were lost in the moment, mentally praising the beauty of that place she never visited. Ysilla gestured towards the various documents, explaining the strategic importance of certain locations and the history of past conflicts in the region. Melara couldn't help but feel overwhelmed, her mind racing to grasp the complexity of it all.

Ysilla, sensing Melara's apprehension, placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder and tried to comfort her and suddenly, a stormy presence opened the doors suddenly, revealing a child. She was dressed with a yellow mustard robe, similar to the ones Oberyn used to dress. Her hair, although, was messy and loose. The young girl possessed that tanned olive skin and his widowed eyes and fastly ran to Ysilla’s arms. 

“Grandmother!” Melara’s heart stopped for a moment when everything made sense. Behind her, a servant walked ashamed and apologised repeatedly for the girl’s behaviour.

“My princesses, my apology. As soon as Obara heard you were here she wanted to see you…” The girl spoke, fearing for her lady’s disapproval.

“Not at all, Myriah. You may leave, Obara will stay with me for a moment.” Ysilla said and the girl left. Obara stood still, hugging her grandmother and Melara had no expression but utter discontent with the presence of the infant right in front of her. She had no manners nor any ladylike demeanour, walking with a wooden sword and small spear on her hand.

“I missed you, grandmother. Why did you not come to see me and Nymeria?” Obara asked, impatiently. Ysilla caressed the little girl’s face and smiled widely whilst Melara watched the scene.

“I missed you too, sweet girl. I just could not have enough spare time to be with you and your sister.” The older princess replied, holding her granddaughter’s hand.

“Look what father brought me from aunt Elia’s wedding!” She proudly showed the wooden sword and Ysilla giggled, watching Obara dance with the sword.

“That is certainly a proper toy for a proper fighter.” She replied to Obara, who put her small sword back on her sheath.

“Can I see father’s wife?” Melara could hear from afar the request from the child and it made her hands sweat and feet retorse inside her shoes.

“As a matter of fact, your step mother is right here. Would you like to see her?” Obara nodded her head quickly and started walking towards the distinct figure that was Melara. 

The blonde princess closed the book and finally could look at the young bastard in front of her closely. She was the perfect image of Oberyn in all aspects, appearance and temper.

“Obara, this is Princess Melara. Princess, this is one of Oberyn’s daughters.” The six year old child stares deeply at her step mother with stern eyes, roaming her and raising one of her eyebrows. Melara stood still and remained cold in response to Obara.

“She is pale as father told.”

Melara's gaze met Obara's unyielding stare, and a small pout tugged at the corners of the princess's lips. She crouched down to meet Obara at eye level, maintaining a calm and collected demeanour.

"Pale, am I?" Melara said, her voice carrying a playful edge. "Well, it seems your father has been sharing stories about me. I assure you, Obara, there's more to a person than the colour of their skin."

Obara continued to study Melara, seemingly unimpressed. The young girl crossed her arms over her chest, mimicking a gesture she must have seen from her father countless times.

"Father says you come from Oldtown," Obara stated matter-of-factly, her gaze unwavering. 

“Is that true?”

“It is.” Melara replied, replacing the book back to the shelf. “I come from House Hightower, the guardians of Oldtown.”

“I come from Oldtown too. My mother is a whore.” Obara replied simply. Melara had to admit to being impressed about how well developed Obara was in her speech, but distantly shocked with how naturally the girl spoke about her true parentage.

“I see.” Melara replied, uninterested and Ysilla watched everything. 

"Are you my new mother?" Obara asked, her gaze fixed on Melara. The question hung in the air, laden with a complexity that Melara understood all too well. She took a moment before answering, measuring her words.

"I am your father's wife, Obara." Melara replied, firmly. Obara continued to study Melara, her expression unreadable.

Ysilla sensed the tension and knelt down to be at eye level with his daughter. "Obara, Princess Melara is now a part of our family. I expect you to treat her with respect," She said, his voice carrying a motherly authority that brooked no argument.

The young girl sighed, a mixture of defiance and acceptance evident in her demeanour. Melara felt a weird sickness on her stomach and a knot forming inside her belly, standing up swiftly to stay away from Obara. “My lady, I need to be excused from your presences.”

“Is everything alright, Melara?” Ysilla asked, concerned. 

“I am not, in fact. But I must prepare myself to arrive in Sunspear as you commanded, princess.” That interaction with the bastard was everything she had no wish to experience, at least not that day. As Melara excused herself from the presence of Obara and her grandmother, she felt a strange mix of emotions. Jealousy, anger, sadness, outrage. The encounter with Oberyn's daughter had left her unsettled, and the realisation that she was now not only beaconing the intricate politics of Sunspear but also the complexities of family dynamics weighed heavily on her mind.

Ysilla, perceptive as ever, watched Melara with a concerned expression as she sent Obara away with her nurse once more. "Take your time, my dear. Family can be challenging, but it's something we all must learn to navigate."

Melara nodded in acknowledgment, offering a clumsy nod before making her way back to her quarters. Once inside, she closed the door behind her and took a deep breath, trying to shake off the discomfort that clung to her like a stubborn shadow.

As she prepared for the journey to Sunspear, Melara couldn't help but reflect on the challenges that lay ahead. The courtly intrigue and political machinations were one thing, but the dynamics within House Martell were proving to be just as complex. The young Obara, with her bold demeanour and piercing gaze, was a constant reminder of her husband’s impulsiveness and lack of respect for her. How could he take a bastard into his lady wife’s life?

With a heavy heart, Melara started her small journey to the political seat of House Martell. The journey ahead held uncertainties, not only in the realm of politics but within the walls of her newfound family. She understood that the role of a stepmother carried its own weight, however, she refused to see herself as a motherly figure to a child born out of wedlock.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across Sunspear, Melara made her way to the courtyard where her chariage awaited. The journey to Sunspear awaited, and with it, Melara knew she would face not only the ramifications of court but also the challenges of forging familial bonds in a land where loyalty was as shifting as the desert sands.

Her new bedchambers were adorned with Dornish tapestries and intricate patterns that spoke of the region's rich history. Melara moved toward a window, gazing out at the sun-drenched landscape of Sunspear. The city, with its spires and domes, seemed to hold both promise and peril. The letter from Lynesse lay forgotten on her desk, overshadowed by the weight of her new responsibilities.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting hues of orange and pink across the Dornish sky, Melara couldn't help but feel a sense of isolation. She missed the familiar faces of the Starry Sept, the simplicity of her previous life. Little did she know that the journey she had embarked upon would challenge not only her role as Lady of Sunspear but also the very core of who she was. The blonde decided to open the letter and opened the paper at a slow pace whilst she could feel fragments of sand beating her face as the wind breezed inside her private room.

Dear Sister,

It has come to my acknowledgement that you had married my former betrothed to replace me as his wife. It surprises me, once I believed you took the vows on your sacred life. My husband, Sor Jorah is rather affectionate and handsome, a fearsome knight, therefore, there is nothing to worry about my safety. The lands of Bear Island are too wild and cold, though. Nonetheless, my husband lavishes me with gold and the fairest wools and fur coats I have ever seen. Please, send my regards to your Lord Husband for me as an insignificant attempt to thank him for his infinite kindness in discontinuing our betrothal and making my marriage possible. I do hope to read if Prince Oberyn is treating you properly. I also believe he will be the one who will finally make a bright smile rise on your face.

Father told me in a letter you were present at the royal wedding of Prince Rhaegar. What is he like? Did you become acquainted with Our Graces? I am eager to know your experience on King’s Landing.

Your beloved sister,

Lady Lynesse of House Mormont.

Melara embraced the letter with a longing tear scrolling down her eyes. Lynesse and Alysanne were the closest of her age of all her siblings and shared the same mother as well. Besides the constant mockery over Melara, Alysanne was rather protective and often told stories about their mother to Lynesse and Melara. The elder sisters often made Melara feel excluded, more of an outsider, for Melara was a quiet person and did not share the interest of playing with dolls and playing with other children of the castle. Still, Lynesse would climb to Melara’s bed on every storm and just laid by her side in silence, holding her hand while they slept because she knew how scared of lightnings and thunders Melara was. Lynesse understood how important the silence was for her. Melara sat on a chair in front of her desk and grabbed two pieces of paper and a feather pencil and began to write.

Sister, 

I am glad to know that your Lord Husband treats you well, it earnestly makes my heart relieved to know that you are safe and sound by his side. I pray for the Mother you write me with news that I am to be an aunt, for I truly hope for your happiness. I imagine how cold the North might be, but tales of its beauty always come to my ears. I am sure you will recognise it when the time has come. I will make sure Oberyn knows about your gratitude towards him.

As for me, life in Dorne is not as difficult as I thought it could be. My lord husband is not cruel nor violent towards me. However, the laws and costumes of the country are something beyond my understanding. Oberyn is handsome and a fearsome knight as well, but dismisses any kind of affection, being rather distant from me. It does not bother me, once I still did not find in my heart to love him, but he treats me respectfully and this is more than enough for me. 

And I indeed met Prince Rhaegar and Our Grace the Queen. Both of them are ethereally beautiful, but I sense they were slightly sad, even on a wedding day. Princess Elia is a very bright person and very close to Oberyn. I wish I had some sort of clue to his heart and make our relationship as affectionate as yours. King’s Landing would suit you well, once the city is full of eventful streets and the royal castle is full of adventures worthy of the eventful person you are.

I always figured I would never miss our moments in Oldtown, but here am I, shedding some tears as I think of how much I miss you and my former life. I wish I could remain in Oldtown as a Septa, but the Gods are good and knows best about my future. I truly hope to read your response soon.

Your dear sister,

Princess Melara of House Martell

Melara melted the wax and covered it with the sigil of House Martell as she sealed the first letter she wrote. Then, she took the second paper and started writing once more. 

My good sister,

It has come to my mind that I never exchanged letters with you and for thus, I must apologise. Since I married your brother, I had a hard time adapting to the intense dornish heat and life as Lady of Sunspear, therefore, I was not able to write for anyone. I pray for the Mother every day your womb will be blessed with a new heir to the Iron Throne very soon and your marriage to Prince Rhaegar grows peaceful and full of love as the days go. 

I write this letter with the intention of establishing communication with you on a regular basis, for I wish to nurture a friendship with you. I sincerely hope you found my request reasonable.

Your good sister,

Princess Melara of House Martell.

As she dropped the wax on Elia’s letter to seal it, she heard a knock on her door. “Who is it?” Melara asked, standing and fastly finding something adequate to dress herself.

“It’s me, wife.” Oberyn said behind the door. Melara raised her eyebrows in desperation and tried to look more presentable for her husband, wiping some traces of sweat and braiding her hair .  

“Let me look presentable for you first, husband.” Melara said while finishing lacing her dress.

“Melara, there is no need…” His words were quickly shut off once his princess wife opened the door for him.

“Please, come inside.” Melara said, making space for him. He smirked and walked inside her new chambers with a jar and two cups. 

“I heard mother has established Sunspear as your home.” He said, walking with his arrogant stride. Melara could see how much Obara resembled him and wondered if her own children would ever resemble Oberyn this much. The princess also rumined if her lord husband was discontent with the new arrangement of her living.

“Is it of your dislike, husband?” Melara asked, calmly trying to disguise her fears.

“In fact not. I suppose it is far easier to have our weekly moment while you are not with child.” He said, placing the jar and cups over the table. “I also agree with mother. Leaving you in the Water Gardens was a mistake. You need to learn how to administrate our household.” And then, he served her a glass of wine. He would never let her serve him and it undeniably confused Melara, for she always believed in the female role of submitting and serving to the husband, not the opposite. “Drink with me.”

Melara nodded and raised her goblet after Oberyn. “To your new chambers.” She drank a sip of her wine, which gave her a slight sensation of refreshment in that hot weather. “I see you wrote letters.”

“Yes,” Melara replied, walking towards the table. “To Lynesse and Elia.”

Oberyn raised an eyebrow, surprised. “Have you two been exchanging letters?”

“Not quite,” Melara admitted. “But I am trying to establish communication with my good sister. It was rather insensitive of me to not send her any letter.”

“Elia is not the type of person who would hold a grudge over such things, my lady.” Oberyn advertised, sitting on a sofa leaned by the wall. “But it is good to know that you are trying to bond with my sister.” His eyes were lost somewhere. Melara knew very little about Oberyn’s emotions, but she knew more than well that Oberyn was a high spirited person, always mischievous and playful before the marriage. After that he became someone else. Melancholic, distant. At least with her. But when she mentioned Elia, Melara could see his pupils dilate and his eyes felt to be at a loss. The blonde asked herself if Oberyn was that numb around Obara and his other daughter.

“Lynesse thanked you over her letter. She said she is safe with her lord husband and is glad for your kindness in ending your betrothal.” Melara said, standing up in front of him.

Oberyn smiled. “Lynesse is a good woman, she deserves to be cherished by a loved husband.” He stood up, left his cup on the floor and touched Melara’s lips, something he would do anytime he wanted to initiate intimacy. Melara was tired and still thinking about how offended she felt by his bastard’s presence, but complied nonetheless. Oberyn started kissing her neck, involving his arms around her waist and undoing the lace of her dress, guiding her to the bed. He was silent the whole moment, but his lips were eager. Kissing her collarbones, squeezing her breasts over the thin fabric of her underwear.

Melara, however, could not stop thinking about what happened at the library earlier. Her mind recollected Obara defying her and telling about her life proudly, being the image of a major threat for her future bloodline. “I saw one of your daughters today.”

The tension between them had been building ever since the encounter with Obara, Oberyn's eldest daughter. Melara had made it clear that she harboured reservations about being around Oberyn's children. Oberyn, however, was fiercely protective of his daughters and resented any implication that they were less than deserving of Melara's respect. As he stopped kissing her, he narrowed his eyes and sat on the bed, intrigued.

“You did so?” He asked, raising an eyebrow.

“I did.” Melara replied, sternly. Oberyn laughed.

“The eldest or the youngest?” The salty prince asked once more.

“She seemed to be around five or six years of age.” The young lady replied, facing down the wooden floor.

“Obara is her name. She resembles me too much.” Oberyn carried a certain proud tone of voice that sickened Melara to the stomach.

“She is a bastard.” Melara pointed out. Oberyn’s grin disappeared.

“And what would exactly change here?” Oberyn asked, trying to control his annoyance.

“How could you allow such disrespect to my person?” Melara frustratedly asked.

Oberyn closed his fists in an act of anger. “Why would my children represent some sort of disrespect to you?”

“It is unacceptable to have your bastards being raised alongside your lady wife.”

Oberyn stood up, his voice carrying the weight of his frustration. "Melara, you knew I had children when we wed. You cannot expect to separate me from them."

Melara dressed in a satin robe as he stood away, her voice cold as ice. "I knew, Oberyn, but I did not expect to be thrust into a family where the bastard children lack any semblance of manners and rub their bastardy on my face."

Oberyn's eyes flared with anger. "They are Dornish, Melara. They are strong, free-spirited, and unapologetic. Just like their father."

Melara gritted her teeth, demonstrating a passive aggressive demeanour. "I did not sign up for this. I am your wife, not their nursemaid."

Oberyn's expression hardened. "They are my blood, Melara. You will show them the respect they deserve." Melara's frustration boiled over, and she covered her eyes with her hands in rage, which surprised Oberyn.

"Respect is earned, Oberyn. It is not granted simply because of blood ties."

The Red Viper, renowned for his quick reflexes, swiftly grabbed Melara by her arms. His voice is low and dangerous. "And what about the respect you owe me, wife? I am your husband, and my daughters are a part of me."

Melara's eyes flashed, and she tried to retreat with fear but it was too late, she had to carry on with her fiery determination. "I owe you respect as my husband, but that does not mean I must blindly accept everything that comes with it. I will not be forced into a role I did not choose."

The clash between husband and wife continued. Oberyn, getting back to his senses, pushed Melara back. She held her arms where he grabbed her and felt the instant pain but stood her ground, swallowing her tears.

"You will not dictate who is a part of my life, Melara. These are my daughters, and you will find a way to coexist with them."

Melara, fueled by her own determination, leaned on her window. "I did not marry you to become a pawn in your familial disputes. I will not be subjected to the chaos of your children. Our future children…"

“Our future children what?” He yelled, infuriated.

Melara had to stand up for herself. “This is an utter disrespect to my person and our future, trueborn children. How can you allow your bastards to grow up here as equals? And if the lords recognise her as your true heir instead of my children?”

Oberyn smiled bitterly. “You would have to be with child first. Something you were not even able to become all this time as my wife!” The fight reached its peak, both Melara and Oberyn locked in a struggle for dominance. Melara let a single tear fall from her eyes in the moment, letting him know he had her weakness. In the end, as the dust settled, they stood facing each other, chests heaving with exasperation from both sides.Oberyn immediately sensed the weight of his rude words to his wife and buried his face in his hands. emotional distance that had grown between them. Melara, her eyes ablaze with defiance, refused to back down.

Melara walked away from the window, a somber expression on her face. "Enough," she said, her voice cutting through the tension. "This is not the way to resolve your differences."

Oberyn, still seething with frustration, fixed up his garments fast. "We will discuss this later," he said, his voice a low growl.

As Oberyn dispersed, he left her chambers in an uneasy silence, the rift between Oberyn and Melara lingered like a shadow over Melara’s head and heart. Melara laid on her and cried silently. She wanted to be closer to Oberyn, but his children out of wedlock were something almost unforgivable to Melara. That was the first time he ever raised his voice and laid his hand on her and it scared Melara, making her wish to be back in Oldtown more than ever, so she would do what she always does when in need: kneel and pray with the seven crystals in her hand, begging for the Father to reason justice in Oberyn’s head. The conflict had laid bare the challenges of blending their lives and families, and the road ahead seemed fraught with uncertainty.  

#ao3 #fanfic asoiaf #a song of ice and fire #oberyn martell fanfiction #house hightower #oberyn martell #asoiaf fanfiction #game of thrones fanfiction #martell #oberyn martell x ofc #holy and heathen #oberyn martell x reader #prince oberyn #young!oberyn #dorne #faith of the seven #fic recs #house martell #fic rec #old town #pedro boys #pedro pascal

[catofoldstones]

Hi does anyone have any modern nedcat fic recs?

#where they live happily ever after maybe 🥲 #nedcat #ned stark #catelyn stark #catelyn tully #eddard stark #asoiaf #fic #fic recs #there’s an emotional itch I need to scratch

[redwolf17]

hey do you have any fic reqs? im looking for something new to fill my time since i caught up on weirwood queen (and all your other work lol)

I haven’t read a lot of ASoiaF fic lately, partially because I’m busy, partially so I don’t accidentally swipe any ideas.

I’ve either read or heard very good things about the following:

The King That Nobody Wanted: AU where Robert dies during RR and Stannis takes the throne. Lots of worldbuilding with the lower classes. Ongoing.

The Wheel Unbroken: A fix-it about which I know nothing except REALLY people love it? Apparently has amazing prose. Excited to check it out once TWQ is finished. Ongoing.

Empire of the Black Dragons: a half crack, half serious AU where the Blackfyres are in charge. If TWQ is me slapping an Arthurian/LOTR approach on ASoiaF, this fic is like He-Man and She-Ra sort of Rule of Cool. Ongoing.

Sunrise: A Quentyn Martell SI; I’ve heard good things about how it expands on Dorne. Recently completed, save for the epilogues.

Pretty much anything by @dwellordream ; she’s got a fantastic back catalogue and ongoing fics over on Ao3. Lots of great worldbuilding; heavy focus on female characters and the complexity of existing in a feudal society. I particularly recommend her Tommen oneshot, Only minutes young, and her ironborn focused fic, Last Serving Daughter.

Hope that helps! :)

#the weirwood queen #asoiaf fic #fic recs #the king that nobody wanted #the empire of the black dragons #the wheel unbroken #dwellingondreams #sunrise: a Quentyn Martell SI

[martellspear]

I haven't read as many fanfics as I would like, but I still have recommendations to make :)

— we fall apart as it gets dark [elia martell x brandon stark]

— Holy and Heathen [oberyn martell x hightower!OC]

— right where you left me [rhaenys lives!AU]

— Hourglass [elia martell x rhaegar targaryen]

my to be read:

— Lazarus in the Sun [elia martell x jaime lannister]

— A Dance of Love and Duty

#fic rec #a song of ice and fire #asoiaf #martell week #day O6: favorite martell fic #house martell