Chapter Text
In 80 AC history was made when King Jaehaerys's third son Prince Vaegon, known as Vaegon the Dragonless for he was the King's only son not to ride a dragon, was sent to study at the Citadel. This on its own was not as unprecedented as Prince Aemon had forged a link in law years ago, but unlike his elder brother Prince Vaegon forged not one or just a few links but the full chain of a Maester, becoming the first Targaryen to do so. Prince Vaegon would eventually become an Archmaester of the Royal Citadel. But despite this historic first, among the people what is most remembered in the history of the Westeros was that in the waning months of 80AC Prince Baelon began discussing with his father and brother an invasion of the Stepstones. The islands had long been a hub of piracy due to the fact that since the Valyrian freehold controlled the Tyrosh straits and its islands, its own trade was secure and they did not bother with pirates on the rest of the islands invading Westeros. In the meantime in an age of a divided Westeros none of the kingdoms wanted their rivals to control the strategic trade lane meaning no one was willing to take on the cost and burden to clear it if it was going to be invaded by their rivals anyways. Something pirates from Essos had exploited for centuries.
But now with a united Westeros making much of the tension and worry moot and there being no Valyrian Freehold where pirates from Essos could flee to with impunity, for this time it was Westeros which held the Dragons, Prince Baelon felt time was nigh for the Crown to secure the islands, banishing the pirates which had plagued the shores of Westeros for untold generations. Supporting Prince Baelon in the discussions and deliberations of those members of the Royal Court who were privy to the plans were the Seawynd's of Seahorse town and later the Velaryon's who under the leadership of Corlys Velaryon, who was a celebrated mariner despite his young age, were quickly beginning to match their mainland cousins in trade, becoming the main competitors to the Seahorse Trading company in the Crownlands and increasingly become a major trading power in the Narrow Sea.
Both these Houses, and later as news was spread of the discussions in the Small Council and Royal Court, all of the Houses of Westeros dependent on sea trade however wished for safer passage through the Stepstones. Prince Baelon for his part wished to leave behind his children an inheritance, especially when he had another son in Prince Daemon Targaryen in 81AC and unlike in the time of his grandfather's or even Father's youth spare land in either Dragonstone of the Dragonlands was sparce. After nearly a year of discussion in the Small Council agreement was secured and proper planning was begun for the King refused to rush into war and wanted to sort out all the important details for the plan after the war in advance. Over the next three years plans not just for the invasion but the aftermath were made and the support of key houses secured in secret. During this time gold was prepared for the venture for the Crown's coffers ability to finance a war while also paying for all its other priorities were negligible at best. Meaning that the Noble Houses needed to provide almost all the gold required for the venture which required time to prepare, especially as much gold would be needed for the aftermath, more than the war itself. Furthermore the Master of Whispers sent near a hundred missions of spies to map out all the islands, the pirate alliances and settlements as best they could which also took time. As such it was only in 84AC that King Jaehaerys finally gave his blessing to Prince Baelon to announce to the Royal Court and the Realm that he was to invade the Stepstones and drive out the pirates from the islands, once and for all.
The War of Stepstones is one of the most interesting Westerosi Wars for it is the first where the Houses of Westeros from multiple kingdoms fought outside the continent under a single banner, for even one of the Kingdom sending invasion forces beyond the sea was rare, the only other example in recent centuries being the invasion by Argilac the Arrogant of the Disputed Lands during the Century of Blood in order to push back the Volantene, and he had to be bribed with a Valyrian Steel Sword, a priceless ransom, that would eventually be named Godsgrief and became the Ancestral Sword of House Baratheon.
The war brought at least one House from each of the regions of Westeros, with the islands divided and given to Houses which participated. This was meant to not only draw on the largest possible base of support but also to ensure the benefits of the war were evenly felt across Westeros for the King was wary of being seen of backing a war for the benefit of the Crownlands trading networks, or simply to help his son achieve glory. Hence by having at least one House from each Kingdom meant that the Stepstones would be able to form connections across the realm increasing trade everywhere at once instead of concentrating the benefits to just a single port or region.
In 84 AC the Stepstones Alliance composed of Prince Baelon and Houses Redwyne, Seawynd, Lannister, Mooton, Greyjoy, Harlaw, Stark, Grafton, Tarth and Martell was announced to the Realm. It's composition was a political triumph of the Queens Coalition which selected all the members and their rewards, and who used the membership of the coalition for four purposes. First was the rewarding of Loyal Houses such as House Seawynd, House Lannister, House Mooton and House Stark. The last of which while politically important for the Queen's coalition for they were the Dukes of the North were not a naval House like the others, ideally a House like House Manderly or Stonewolf should have been chosen for the North but political needs overpowered the practicality of the selection showing the priority and emphasis made on rewarding allies.
The second was to cement the loyalty of wavering Houses such as Greyjoy, Harlaw, and Martell who due to many factors were seen as possible defectors from the Queens Coalition, rumours stating that each was either making overtures to the Anti-Maegor Alliance or seeking to become neutral in the politics of the Realm, this was especially true of House Greyjoy whose new lord Quenton Greyjoy had made friendships with Prince Aemon and especially with Princess Jocelyn in the past few years. And while this reward was enough to keep the Greyjoys and Harlaws, and thus the Iron Islands, in the coalition House Martell dropped out of the Queens Coalition even after being rewarded so, much to the anger of Queen Alysanne who had to be counselled out of going and burning the shadow city to the ground and slaughtering its inhabitants, not the first time the Martells were punished so, by her husband the King. This defection occurred when Princess Amaria became ruler of Dorne and placed the ideal of equality of genders in succession over the benefits of siding with the Queens Coalition or adherence to current legal precedent of House Targaryens which put uncles over daughters.
The third reason was to help gain new alliances or re-establish them. This was true of Houses Redwyne and Tarth. With the Hightowers ending their political neutrality and joining the Anti-Maegor alliance openly the Queen's Coalition and Highgarden sought to renew the Old Accord between the Arbor and Highgarden. For centuries House Redwyne, with its formidable fleet, kept the Hightowers of Oldtown naval power and ambitions in check to the benefit of House Gardener. In return Highgarden aided the Arbor against any potential overreach by the Hightowers whether in the fields of trade or politics. This alliance broke down after the accession of Duke Alyx whose actions and Black Hounds caused him to be reviled, but as with each time the Old Accord was ended past slights were forgotten and it was now renewed as the Duke Alyx married his daughter to Duke Redwynes heir and helped them secure a place in the Stepstones coalition, believing the benefits of a stronger House Redwyne outweighed the benefits of a cadet line in the Stepstones. In the case of House Tarth the aim was to use the requirement of one Stormland House joining to pull House Tarth and with it the entire Northeastern Alliance into the Queens Coalition and in doing so land a blow against the Baratheon's but both weakening its hold on its vassals and to prevent one of its allies such as House Estermont from being selected. And while House Tarth would make the transition to the Queen's coalition House Errol and Eastwood would continue to walk a fine line, being loyal to their overlord while maintaining enough neutrality to not affect the trade relations they had with other Houses, this would make the Northeastern Alliance more of a neutral trade alliance by reducing the political cooperation of its members. Many accounts claim this was a deliberate split of loyalties in on order to pull themselves out of the squabbles of Westerosi politics
Finally the fourth reason was to punish Houses which had already defected. This was one of the primary reasons why only House Grafton from the Vale participated despite the Arryns showing great interest and eagerness in the venture, as House Arryn had left the Queens coalition and taken a more neutral stance in the politics of the Realm. Ironically by empowering the Grafton's so much by giving them control of an island in the Stepstone's the Queen coalition would only further cement House Arryn's wariness and shift toward their enemies as one of the reasons they left the alliance was a growing frustration against the increasing influence of the Grafton's. This can also be seen in the absence of House Velaryon and House Celtigar both important trading Houses whose attempts at joining were denied by Prince Baelon at the urging of his mother.
Of course when the composition of the Stepstones coalition was formally announced the remaining Houses did not intend to be passive, many nobles went to the King to complain. Chief among those opposing the Prince Baelon's choice of membership, having found out and complained even before it was formally announced to the Royal Court were Count Corlys Velaryon, who was a distant cousin of the King and Duke Boremund the kings Half-brother. The King Jaehaerys while very sympathetic to their plights did not change the composition of the alliance. This was of two reasons, the more important one was that he had promised his son Prince Baelon the right to chose his allies in the quest and had assured him that he would not let anyone interfere as there were relatively few islands compared to the number of Houses which sought to own one, meaning the King knew from the start there would be houses which complained over the composition of the Stepstones alliance. The second reason was that the King was worried that interfering now after all the planning was about to be ready and the armies and fleets made preparations to depart would only cause more harm than good to the actual campaign. And while these were the two reasons the King gave to his nobles many suspect there was a third even more important reason, many claim that the King intended to allow the Queen's coalition to claim the stepstones in order to further his grip in the realm by concentrating the Queens coalition's efforts and attention elsewhere while he continued his own plans against them. Thus many claim that in a sense this triumph of the Queen's Coalition was more a form of compensation by the king than a show of strength.
For it was known that while never publicly siding against them and always maintaining scrupulous neutrality in matters of law and justice the King had made much effort to balance the influence of the Queens Coalition in ways which did not upset the stability of the realm and most importantly the harmony of the Royal family. Perhaps he was shaken by the open political fighting over his son Prince Aemon's bride or perhaps he began to realise that the Queens Coalition was stronger than he assumed, but what is known for certain is that the King took measures to Keep the Queens Coalition in check after the Wedding of Prince Aemon to Princess Jocelyn. This could be seen in the rumours that it was the King who advised Duke Arryn to become neutral and to create his own coalition in the Vale to balance the Grafton's, correctly predicting many houses would want to keep Gulltown in check if they could do so in a politically safe manner. Similarly it was said that the King was the one who had organised the network of matches and fostering's between Houses Tully, Frey, Mallister, Vaelaros, Waterclaw and Vhassar creating a strong block of houses in the Riverland's which allowed House Tully to push back against the Queen's Coalition in the politics of the duchy.
The King in the aftermath of the marriage of Prince Aemon and Princess Jocelyn had also provided Driftmark with aid in the form of connections and introductions, helping the Velaryon's build new trade relations to compete with the Seawynd trade networks which in turn allowed the Anti-Maegor Coalition to expand its ranks and build stronger relations as trade ties were used to either create or solidify alliances. However it should be noted that the Seawynd's retained a substantial edge in these matters due to their larger network of trade routes, older and deeper trade ties with Essos, particularly with the Sarnori, and their large river fleet, sending large barges and river ships on regular missions as west as the Stoney Sept and as north as Harrentown, connecting the northern Reach and lower Riverland's grain, wines and other goods with the markets and trade networks of Kings Landing and beyond. However in acknowledgement of this the King worked to lessen the influence the Seawynd's had on the city knowing that he could do nothing regarding their trade networks, balancing the administration of the city by bringing in new Houses from the Crownlands into Royal offices, these Houses in turn kept the Seawynd's in check not out of desire to oppose the Queen for more likely than not they were members of the Queen's coalition, but rather in a bid to secure their own power, weakening the Queens coalition by causing infighting over the spoils and offices of Kings Landing.
Excerpt from The War for the Stepstones by Maester Theron of the Royal Citadel.
The year 85 AC marked the beginning of the end for the pirate haven of the Stepstones.…. Prince Baelon Targaryen, a man of action and ambition, recognized the strategic and economic importance of the Stepstones. He envisioned not only the eradication of the pirate threat but also the establishment of a secure and prosperous trade hub under the royal banner. Furthermore, with the recent birth of his second son, Prince Daemon, Prince Baelon sought to secure a valuable inheritance for his children……
The Stepstones Alliance was a testament to the might of a united Westeros. Prince Baelon, leading the charge, commanded a formidable fleet representing every corner of the realm.….For the duration of the campaign, Prince Baelon commissioned a distinctive war crown. It was a band of red gold, but instead of traditional embellishments, it was adorned with sharp, black iron points. This warlike crown, a clear symbol of his intent, declared his ambition to claim the Stepstones as its King……The pirates of the Stepstones, while fierce warriors in their own right, were ultimately unprepared for the scale and unity of the Westerosi assault. Their disparate bands, often more focused on infighting than cooperation, lacked a unified command structure. While they possessed a certain cunning and knowledge of the local waters, their ships, though swift, were no match for the larger, better-equipped vessels of the royal fleet. Many pirate captains, recognizing the overwhelming odds, proved more inclined to flee than to fight to the death, their ships laden with whatever plunder they could carry, seeking refuge in the Basilisk Isles and other lawless havens further south for pirates make poor administrators and held no loyalty to any land……..
The initial Westerosi strategy focused on seizing key harbours and strategic locations. The allied fleets, working in concert, quickly overwhelmed the scattered pirate defences. The Seawynd fleet, intimately familiar with the waters around the Stepstones as they had led most of the missions commissioned by the Master of Whispers, played a crucial role, heir knowledge of currents and hidden coves proving invaluable. Prince Baelon himself, astride his dragon Vhagar, proved the most decisive force however. The dragon’s fiery breath decimated pirate ships and coastal strongholds, its presence a constant source of fear and disruption for the defenders. The mere sight of Vhagar circling overhead was often enough to send pirate crews scrambling for the shore or their captains hoisting sails in a hasty retreat……..
The local populace, a mixed heritage of pirates and Rhoynish settlers, presented a complex challenge. Due to their heritage they refused to bend the knee to a king, especially any Valyrian king. In some cases, especially after the settlements rebelled or broke parley and guest rights, the Prince ordered the settlement to be wiped out to the last babe, greatly whittling the populace of the islands who like the Dornish in the Wars of Conquest preferred dying over bending the knee. This was not such a loss, for as a condition for being granted lordship of the island each House of the Alliance was to bring in settlers, ones who would not only be able to put to work, but would also hopefully be more loyal to the Crown and their Lords than the current local population which changed allegiances and oaths like noble ladies changed dresses.…….
The Houses were also to appoint a cadet branch to live on the island and lead it for the Crown did not want the Houses to attempt to hold onto the island for their mainline and govern it from their existing seats, weeks away. During this time the Crown also supported the campaign with some gold, to be paid back with the revenue earned on the tax on ships that was to be imposed above and beyond the Crown's regular share……
The capture of key pirate leaders further demoralized the remaining outlaws. One by one, the most notorious captains were hunted down and either killed or captured. Their loss of leadership, coupled with the relentless pressure from the Westerosi forces, eroded even the braver pirates' will to fight………The war also saw its share of challenges. Maintaining supply lines across the Narrow Sea proved a logistical feat, and the Westerosi commanders were constantly vigilant against pirate raids on their supply convoys. The harsh climate and unfamiliar terrain took a toll on the troops, and disease outbreaks were a constant threat. However, the Westerosi forces, driven by the promise of victory and the prospect of claiming new lands, persevered. As the campaign progressed, the focus shifted from combat to consolidation. Garrisons were established on key islands, and fortifications were built to protect against future pirate incursions. The participating houses, eager to establish their new domains, began the process of resettling the islands with loyal subjects from their own lands even as battles still raged. These settlers, promised land and opportunities, brought with them their skills and traditions, gradually transforming the Stepstones from a lawless haven into a productive and prosperous part of the realm. By the spring of 87 AC, barely eighteen months after the initial landings, the War for the Stepstones was effectively over. The pirate menace, which had plagued Westeros for generations, had been decisively crushed. What little organized resistance that existed had collapsed, and the remaining pirates were either fleeing to distant havens or seeking pardon by surrendering. Prince Baelon, having achieved his objectives with remarkable speed and efficiency, declared the campaign concluded. He returned to King’s Landing in triumph, his name now synonymous with great victory and his reputation greatly enhanced even more than the Second Targaryen War Against the Dothraki had. The Crown and Prince Baelon gaining much prestige; And Westeros marked its victory with a Great Tournament, here the Crown of the Stepstones was surrendered to the King who had it added to the Crowns which decorated the steps of the Iron Throne, with the Prince Baelon gaining the title of Prince of the Stepstones in compensation for 'giving up' his 'Kingship' but it should be noted even his own nobles felt no need to call him king, referring to him only as Prince Baelon for the entirety of the war for all knew this was no war to truly establish a new kingdom, merely to expand the existing one.
The victory in the Stepstones had a profound impact on Westeros. It solidified the authority of the Targaryen crown, demonstrating the power of a united realm and the effectiveness of decisive action. It also fostered a sense of unity and shared purpose among the various duchies, as houses from all corners of Westeros had contributed to the victory and all celebrated their contributions and glory with many songs and tales spread among the smallfolk in particular. The economic benefits of the war were substantial, as the Stepstones became a vital link in the Westerosi trade network, facilitating the flow of goods and people between the Seven Kingdoms and the Free Cities. The War for the Stepstones, though relatively short, was a pivotal moment in Westerosi history. It marked the end of an era of piracy and lawlessness in the Narrow Sea and ushered in a new era of peace and prosperity…...
The Stepstones, once a symbol of division and vulnerability, became a testament to the strength and unity of Westeros…….
After the pirates had been driven out and the islands secured, the danger had not passed, and a new war was brewing on the horizon as most of the Free Cities had been wary of Westeros expanding into the Stepstones, even as they cheered the end of the pirates. The ones most worried were Lys and Tyrosh, both of whom considered the islands as part of their territory even though they had not the means nor the will to enforce their rule over the whole of the islands; And so at the start of the conflict envoys had been sent to assure them of the Crowns good intentions, but they were hardly the only ones who were worried and the complaints did not end. As such in 87 AC, once the islands had fallen and Westeros had marked its victory with a Great Tournament, only then would the King call for a Council in Kings Landing composed of Envoys and dignitaries from Braavos, Pentos, Myr, Tyrosh, Lys and Volantis to discuss a peaceful way to recognise Targaryen control of the Stepstones. This is as the King did not want the War to escalate from one between the Iron Throne and Pirates to one between the Iron Throne and the Free Cities but also wanted to make clear he was not asking permission, only recognition of the new reality. Among those that would attend would be a Triarch of Volantis Nyessos Qarthar, the Speaker of the Council of Magisters of Pentos Andros Dalmario, a prominent Magister from Myr Titus Nerio, the Sealord of Braavos Matteo Corozo, the Archon of Tyrosh Lysander Kallos, and the First Magister of Lys Roro Uhoris.
It would take tricky diplomacy and all the skills at forging compromise that the King had but an agreement would be forged as the King and Prince Baelon exploited the disunity between the Free Cities for none wanted the other to have control of the Stepstones either, the same dilemma the Westerosi Kingdoms had faced. Also a matter of consideration was that Lys and Tyrosh's informal state sponsored piracy had become a major irritant to the Free Cities who wanted it to end, even cities such as Myr, Pentos and Braavos who in decades past had tolerated it as a way to prevent the islands fall under Volantene influence as it had over a century ago did not buy those excuses any longer, not after decades of Volantis demonstrating its desire to put the wars of the Century of blood behind them; As such they were unwilling to let go of this opportunity to help secure their routes. Further helping the Crown was the fact that the only cities willing to go to war over maintaining the status quo in the Stepstones were islands which were dependent on their fleets and thus extremely vulnerable to Dragonfyre. Also neither city's magisters, the ones whose wealth was not tied to the pirates at least, wanted war with Westeros, especially if it required going to war alone without the backing of the rest of the Free Cities.
The Iron Throne in the end agreed to many compromises and concessions in order to secure peace, recognising Tyroshi control of Pyr, agreeing to give the easternmost waters around the disputed lands to Tyrosh and Lys to create an alternate path for ships carrying slaves and to ensure the Iron Throne did not have a monopoly on travel between the Narrow and Summer Seas. It also agreed to charge all ships the same tariff regardless of origin with the Essosi and Westerosi paying the same rate, to charge ships only once for each time they crossed the islands and to keep any tax modest with no increase in the tax for the first ten years, and to communicate any tax increases after that at least one year in advance. Other concessions on the rights of Essosi merchants was also secured with some reduction of tariffs on luxury goods also promised. With this the addition of the Stepstones to Westeros won the grudging acquiescence of the Free Cities, leading to the first expansion of the realm since Aegon's Conquest of Dorne. In celebration of this event a 70 foot tall Valyrian Triumphal pillar was erected in Targaryen Square, and on its plinth, 7 feet tall, were carved the sigil's, names and words of all the Houses which participated, as well as the names of all the Lords and Knights who had fought, both those had survived and those who had fallen. House Targaryen also announced that it would sponsor the construction of a sept on each of the main settlements of the islands to give thanks to the Gods.
Prince Baelon and Princess Alyssa would also announce that in celebration of the victory they had purchased two large and adjacent manses and their gardens in the city of Kings Landing, on what would become known as Prince Baelon's Square using their share of the spoils seized in the fighting, but instead of living in them they would be converted into the first Westerosi museum, The Royal Armoury and Collection of King Landing, with the Prince and Princess providing much gold and artefacts from their own personal purse and collection to aid in its establishment. For till now such institutions (which were not called museums at the time as the term came about much later) were only found in the Free Cities and that too only the larger and wealthier ones such as Braavos, Volantis and Qohor. Most of the Manses bottom two floors would be filled with statues, vases, tapestries, Weaponry, armour, maps from across the Valyrian freehold so that the people of King's Landing would be able to see and appreciate the glories and sophistication of Old Valyria, though it would mostly be locked behind clear Myrish glass cases. The remaining space would be filled with similar objects but from everywhere else in the world, from each of the regions of the Realm itself to some pieces from as far away as the Golden Empire of Yi Ti and the Island of Leng. The last floor of each building as well as its basement was used for offices and strongboxes, to govern, maintain and store the collection.
It would take nearly a decade for the institution to take shape, and would be run by the Prince Aerion Collegium which was entrusted with the collection. In time The Royal Armoury and Collection of King Landing would become one of the most famous Institutions of the city, an in the years to come open to all visitors to the city who made it a point to visit, and for that reason the admission charge to enter was kept relatively nominal so as to be afforded by as many people as possible. The Prince Aerion Collegium sponsored most of the actual cost at the start, though in time it would become quite profitable. So famous the Royal Collections would become that others would seek to emulate it and gain the same prestige the Crown and Prince Baelon had received, with a similar institution founded in Oldtown with the patronage of House Hightower, and a further one in Lannisport under the patronage of House Lannister. Till this day statues of the Prince and Princess and their two sons stands in the Prince Baelon Square in honour of their contribution and their patronage, without which The Royal Armoury and Collection would not be possible.
The Stepstones were considered part of the Crownlands, but considering the distances involved were put under the overlordship of Prince Baelon as the Prince of the Stepstones, and who in turn acted as a principle Crownland Bannerman of House Targaryen of Kings Landing which maintained a strong control of the islands, this can be seen in the fact that it was the Crown, and not the Prince of the Stepstones who set up the Stepstone Travel Tariff. This was a ship tariff based on size of the vessel, set by the crown and was implemented and run by its officers on the Stepstones isles. Due to the risk of it being financially unsustainable to hold some islands, particularly if trade passed through only a few of the larger isles, the tariffs were collected by the Crown using a centralised system and were redistributed based on a fixed formula where after the Crown took its share, half the remaining revenue was split into even shares, distributed between all Houses but with the Prince Baelon receiving a double share, the other half was distributed according to how much each island earned in ship tariff.
However the tariff was not the only way the Stepstone's houses earned money for the islands now no longer the domain of pirates and the setting for countless battles and lawless societies were quickly utilized in full. While not the Reach or Riverland's they had more fertile land than previously believed, allowing for more agriculture in islands which earlier were too risky to farm reducing and then in some islands eliminating imports of grains. Similarly the islands were quickly filled with orchards of Citrus fruits and grapes; But the most important crop in terms of land devoted and coin brought in was the olive. Olive orchards and attached olive oil presses became common as the trade of Stepstones olive oil grew as quickly as more could be produced. In time both Dragonstone and Sunstone the previous centers of olive oil production in Westeros would quickly be overtaken by the Stepstones. The final major crop was cotton with the Stepstone's breaking to cotton monopoly of Oldtown.
This agriculture and the orchards were greatly boosted by easy to build check dams and small reservoirs allowing for capture of water from the frequent rains and storms, allowing farms and villages to grow across the islands more easily. Fishing also became a bigger industry now that hungry and murderous pirates were not an issue, while the towns and ports quickly began to become hubs of legitimate trade, requiring services such as ship repairs and goods such as food and freshwater supplies. Finally especially after the discoveries of gold mines in Grey Gallows ,which were originally disbelieved merely because people found it hard to imagine that the pirates would not have been able to smell the gold like bloodhounds, it created a mining craze which while not yielding more gold did show many viable mines which could be exploited.
The following would become the Stepstone Houses following the war,
Prince Baelon's branch of House Targaryen would take Bloodstone, now renamed to Oros Island, with his seat being Oros Castle in the Port of Oros which became the capital of the Stepstones. Due to is geographic distance from Kings Landing, a special branch of the Kings Bench was established in Oros, leading to a total of 10 of the Court of King's Bench's. Also in the Port of Oros a Court of the Exchequer would be built, the first of many in the Stepstones as the Crown used its courts and laws as much as its lords and navies to signal to the rest of the world that the Stepstones were now a part of the Realm. Oros would also become home to the Royal Stepstones Fleet, which till now was the smallest of the three fleets of the Royal Navy. It was relocated from Sunstone and was expanded in the coming years, amounting to some 50 galley and carrack warships by 100AC, on its own one of the larger fleets of Westeros. It would help the Stepstone Lords patrol their waters and would be the deterrence needed against corsairs from Sothoryos and pirates from Essos, particularly as using dragons could cause tensions for certain actions where using fleets does not even if the result was the same. The Royal Post office would also use the Stepstones Fleet and its patrols to quickly extend the postal network to connect the stepstones to each other, with all the principle settlements on each island having a Post Office established within half a decade. From Oros regular ships would depart weekly to Estermont from where the letters were transferred to the mainland. The result of this was the deeper integration of the islands into the realm while making Oros the center of this information and communication network.
Oros had a relatively productive agricultural sector. Fields of wheat and barley rippled in the breeze, providing sustenance for the island's inhabitants and a surplus for trade. Livestock grazed on the verdant pastures mostly for local consumption. Oros also had a large fishing industry and fish was a staple food for the island's inhabitants, its fishermen caught a variety of fish, including tuna, sardines, and anchovies. Recognizing the importance of preserving fish, they encouraged the development of salting, smoking, and drying facilities, ensuring a steady supply of preserved fish for both local consumption and trade. The island's harbours provided safe anchorage for merchant ships traveling between the East and West, and merchants actively participated in this trade network, trading a variety of goods, including agricultural products, fish, crafts, and other goods.
But more than all of this the island was deeply shaped by the production and trade of wine and olive oil, which were the pillars of the island's prosperity. Wine, particularly the renowned Oros Commandaria Wine, held a place of exceptional importance for the people as it was a symbol of prestige for the island. This sweet, fortified wine gained acclaim across Westeros, becoming a highly sought-after luxury item in the Royal and Noble courts and beyond. Soon despite, or indeed perhaps because, of its relatively high cost it competed with Dornish Reds and Arbour Golds. Its production generated significant wealth, fueling the island's economy and attracting merchants from across the Summer and Narrow Sea. Similarly, olive oil was an essential good produced in the island. Olive groves soon dotted the landscape, providing a reliable source of this valuable resource. Olive oil was used for cooking, lighting, and even medicinal purposes, making it an indispensable part of daily life with its trade being important in helping the island function.
The new House Targaryen of Oros also took Torturers Deep , renamed Dragons Deep, and thanks to its fertile land the island was a major producer of grains and vegetables. However it was some time before it received the investment needed for it to grow olives or fruits at any scale as these were concentrated by Prince Baelon in Oros. Instead the island was used for its rich deposits of copper, which was something the island was famous for decades. Indeed it was known as torturers deep for the bloodshed the pirates committed over the lucrative copper mines. On Dragon's Deep, the Targaryens focused on improving the efficiency of the copper mines. They invested in developing new mining techniques and equipment, increasing the output of the mines and reducing the risks faced by miners. They also supported the development of specialized crafts related to copper working, such as the production of tools, weapons, and decorative objects. Skilled miners and metalworkers from across Westeros were encouraged to settle on Dragon's Deep, bringing with them their expertise and contributing to the island's growing copper industry and soon Dragon Deep copper was exported throughout the Narrow Sea, where it was used to make tools, weapons, and other objects.
Another crop which became popular quickly was cotton, the islands being the first part of Westeros outside the domains of Oldtown to grow the crop and export it, and while it was never able to compete with Oldtown and the Reach by volume it did become a noted source of the cloth with it feeding the cotton workshops of Duskendale in particular. In time mills were developed in Dragons Deep itself to process the raw cotton into textile.
Prince Valerion's branch of House Targaryen was given Grey Gallows which would be renamed to the Glittering Isle when surveyors would find not just copper which they had expected but most surprisingly gold seams in it, making it the most valuable and profitable isles of the Stepstones and one of the richest fiefs in all of Westeros as the gold veins were found to be as rich as those found in the Westerlands. It is said Prince Baelon's screams of outrage and frustration upon hearing his younger brothers fief had rich seams of gold in it lasted through the night, especially as both of his islands which had been surveyed first had nothing of the sort, a lack made worse over the fact that it had been his choice to give the Grey Gallows to his brother and keep Dragons Deep the then more valuable island in his mind, as it had already established mines of copper, was larger and had more fertile soil for crops.
The seat of the Prince would be the castle of Sunfyre's Roost and the main settlement would be Port Valerion, named by its Lord in later years. The mines would lead to many settlers coming from the Westerlands who were experienced in mining and refining both copper and gold, along with goldsmiths, and were the only exception to the otherwise Valyrian only settlement policy that had been implemented on the Island by Ser Maegon Vhassar who served as Castellan and First Steward of the island while the Prince Valerion was still under age.
The Glittering Isle had a thriving agricultural sector, with fertile land allowing for the cultivation of a wide variety of crops. The island was particularly known for its production of olive oil. In time the isle played a crucial role in the Stepstones trading network, serving as a link between the East and West. The island's ports were busy with merchant ships carrying goods such as textiles, spices, timber, and metals but its most distinguishing feature would be its well-developed crafts, with skilled artisans producing textiles including cotton and silk cloths, ceramics, gold jewellery, copper products and other goods in Port Valerion thanks to the initiative of the Prince who was not content with simply the immense wealth mining gold brought and used his wealth to grow his fief. The Prince Valerion would also invest heavily in the Glittering Isle's shipping and shipbuilding capabilities. Massive harbours and docks, capable of accommodating the largest trading vessels, were constructed with cranes and hoists to speed up the loading and unloading of cargo, along with sprawling storehouses to manage the flow of goods. Dry docks, equipped with the latest technology, allowed for the construction and repair of ships, further boosting the island's maritime capabilities. Prince Valerion even established his own trading company, further solidifying the island's position as a major player in the Narrow Sea trade. These initiatives, coupled with the gold and copper mines, transformed the island into a trading powerhouse, rivalling and even surpassing established centers like Oros and Ryam’s Isle.
In time Port Valerion and the Glittering Isle would gain a Court of Exchequer as well as other institutions. Strong and efficient offices were established to manage the island’s burgeoning finances, along with other administrative bodies necessary for a thriving commercial center. These included the Artisans Guild to regulate craft production, ensuring quality control, training apprentices, and setting fair prices for goods. The Port Valerion Weigh House, a designated place to officially weigh goods, ensuring fair trade and preventing fraud. And the Merchants' Guild, a cornerstone of Port Valerion's burgeoning commercial power, which provided a vital framework for organizing and regulating trade. Its establishment offered numerous benefits to both the merchants themselves and the island as a whole. By bringing the merchants together under a common banner, the guild facilitated the exchange of information, ideas, and best practices. The guild also played a crucial role in regulating trade and maintaining order within the marketplace. It established rules of conduct, resolved disputes among merchants, and enforced ethical business practices. This self-regulation not only prevented internal conflicts but also enhanced the reputation of Port Valerion as a reliable and trustworthy trading hub.
Prince Valerion, fueled by the seemingly endless flow of gold, embarked on an ambitious building program, transforming Port Valerion into a spectacle of architectural grandeur. A magnificent stone circus, where chariot races, sponsored by the Prince himself, entertained the populace, was constructed. Grand Valyrian theatres, showcasing plays and performances, became centers of cultural life. The largest Valyrian temple in the Stepstones, adorned with marble facades and colossal gilded bronze statues, dominated the skyline. A Grand Sept, its stained-glass windows shimmering with light and intricate carvings depicting scenes from the Seven’s scriptures, catered to the faith of Westerosi settlers. A stone arena provided a venue for Westerosi-style melees and jousting tournaments, while multiple Valyrian bathhouses offered respite and relaxation. Grand, tree-lined boulevards, paved with smooth stones, crisscrossed the city, and an intricate network of sewers ensured cleanliness and sanitation. Public fountains, adorned with sculptures and fed by aqueducts, provided fresh water, while Braavosi-style square wells fed by rainwater offered a reliable source of clean water to all. Two large schools for orphans and the poor, modelled after those founded by his grandfather Prince Maegor, were established, one in Port Valerion and the other in the island’s interior. A towering, 140-foot lighthouse guided ships safely into the harbour. Sprawling markets, with well-built stalls, offered a wide array of goods. The first public Godswood in the Stepstones, featuring eleven majestic Weirwood trees, provided a place for contemplation and worship. A sprawling public park offered a green oasis in the heart of the city, and other such amenities made Port Valerion the 'Jewel of the Stepstones'. The Prince would also invest heavily in his fief, taking inspiration from Dragonstone to build a dense network of roads, made of cobblestone, making internal trade and travel easy, he also began carving into the hills step farms and used the resulting rock and stone to build bridges with multiple level of Valyrian arches supporting them, made crossing streams and valleys easy.
House Seawynd of Seahorse Town, whose new cadet branch would take a new name becoming House Selwyn, would receive Redwater, renamed to Seahorse Crescent. Crecent Harbour would be the name of the main settlement of the Island. It would be one of the most strategically placed islands of the Stepstones, and would quickly become wealthy with Crescent harbour becoming home to the first Court of Exchequer outside Oros. The connections of the House Seawynd and their trading company to the island proved crucial to the island's development as a trade hub, as the Seahorse Trading company reorganised their routes to the Summer isles, Sothoryos and Southern Essos to center around the isle, attracting other merchants and traders as well.
Seahorse Crescent also proved fertile ground for the cultivation of valuable crops. Cotton and olive oil, both highly sought-after commodities in Westeros, thrived on the island. The Seahorse Trading Company, leveraging its extensive network, efficiently connected Seahorse Crescent to markets in the Crownlands and Riverlands, ensuring a ready demand for these prized products.
Recognizing the importance of supporting industries, the Selwyns encouraged the development of specialized crafts related to cotton and olive oil production. Textile workshops sprung up, transforming raw cotton into fine cloths, while olive presses and processing facilities ensured the efficient production of high-quality olive oil. They also attracted skilled artisans, such as weavers, potters, and coopers, who created valuable goods for trade, further diversifying the island's economy. This not only enriched House Selwyn but also contributed significantly to the island's overall prosperity.
The Selwyn's transformed Seahorse Crescent into a vital and prosperous part of the Stepstones, solidifying their own wealth and influence within the region.
House Redwyne, whose new cadet branch would retain the name Redwyne, would receive the Highwatch which would be renamed to Ryam's Isle. This was the second largest island the Iron Throne conquered, and tied with Oros Island and Sunstone in terms of usable land area despite its smaller size and relatively hilly terrain, being the most fertile with even its worst and least fertile lands, the many hills, being perfect for olive and citrus orchards, with its valleys and flatlands being very fertile. House Redwyne won this prize by providing the alliance with the largest fleets and largest sum of gold for the invasion.
Ryam's Isle quickly became the center of the lucrative Stepstones olive oil trade. Its oil, renowned for its quality and flavor, found its way to tables as far north as the Gift and as far west as the Lonely Light, its distribution greatly aided by the Redwynes' extensive existing trade networks. Recognizing the potential for related industries, the Redwynes supported the establishment of olive presses, preserving facilities, and pottery workshops. These businesses not only processed the island's agricultural bounty but also created valuable goods for trade. They also encouraged the development of specialized crafts related to food production and storage, such as barrel making, cooperage, and the production of clay jars. The island also became a major producer and trader of fermented and cured olives, a delicacy that soon graced the tables of nobles and even appeared in higher-end taverns. Citrus orchards, particularly lemons and oranges, thrived on Ryam's Isle, their fruits primarily preserved in clay jars, though some houses, seeking a touch of luxury, commissioned glass jars to be filled and returned.
However, Ryam's Isle's true strategic importance stemmed from its role as the Stepstones' primary food producer and exporter. It was one of only two islands, alongside Oros, capable of readily parting with grain in times of need. This contrasted sharply with the other islands, which were far more reliant on fishing and the grain trade to meet their basic sustenance needs. This capacity to provide food security made Ryam's Isle an invaluable asset to the Stepstones and a key player in regional stability.
Beyond simply cultivating olives, citrus, and grains, the Redwynes actively sought to improve agricultural practices on Ryam's Isle. They encouraged the development of terraced farming on the hillsides, maximizing land use and preventing soil erosion. They also invested in irrigation systems, ensuring a reliable water supply for their crops even during dry periods. Skilled farmers and agricultural experts from the Reach were encouraged to settle on Ryam’s Isle, bringing with them their expertise and contributing to the island's growing agricultural output. The Redwynes also invested in improving the island’s internal transportation network. While the terrain presented challenges, they constructed a network of roads and bridges, facilitating the movement of goods and people across the island. This improved infrastructure further boosted agricultural productivity and facilitated trade within Ryam's Isle.
Through their focus on large-scale agriculture, their development of related industries, and their investment in infrastructure, the Redwynes transformed Ryam's Isle into a vital and prosperous part of the Stepstones, securing their position as key players in the region's economy and ensuring their continued influence.
House Mooton would receive Felstrong and tor, the smallest of the major isles, requiring two of them to be given to the House. The new cadet branch would take the name Felstrong and would make the island their main seat and centred their economy around fishing. But they also made much coin by harvesting sea creatures to make dyes which previously only Tyrosh could provide , however they were not able to truly compete with Tyrosh in terms of scale. Their discoveries of such snails and sea creatures would lead to a close relationship with the Royal Dye Works in Kings Landing which popularised the use of Stepstone dyes in Westeros.
House Lannister would receive Guardian, renamed Lions den, the most eastern Island. Their cadet branch would take the name Lanell and they too would become major players in the dye trade but like the Felstrong's they were not able to truly compete with Tyrosh however in terms of scale, being only able to conquer the Westerosi markets where they were protected by high tariffs. Undeterred by their inability to compete internationally, the Lanells strategically invested in building their own dye works for silks and other fine cloths. This bold move aimed to concentrate the dye industry within their fief, wresting control and profits from the Royal Dye Works of King's Landing. To further enhance their dye production, the Lanells sought to attract skilled dyers and artisans from across Westeros and even beyond. They offered generous incentives to those willing to relocate to Lion's Den, establishing a community of expert craftsmen who could create dyes of exceptional quality and variety. These skilled artisans, working in the Lanell dye works, produced a wide array of dyes, catering to the diverse tastes of the Westerosi market. They also encouraged the development of textile production, tailoring, and the creation of luxury goods. These complementary industries further enhanced the value of their dye works, creating a thriving economic ecosystem on Lion's Den.
Its proximity to Tyrosh's trade routes presented both opportunity and challenge. Though these routes teemed with ships, many were engaged in the slave trade, or used slave soldiers practice outlawed in Westeros. The Lanells, therefore, had to be selective in their trading partnerships, seeking out merchants dealing in legitimate goods traded by freemen……..Recognizing the agricultural potential of their island, the Lanells encouraged the cultivation of crops specifically suited for dye production. Woad, madder, and other dye plants were cultivated extensively, providing a steady supply of raw materials for their burgeoning dye works. They also invested in developing advanced agricultural techniques, maximizing yields and ensuring a consistent supply of these crucial crops. Skilled farmers from Westeros were encouraged to settle on Lion's Den, bringing with them their expertise in cultivating dye plants and other valuable crops.
Through their strategic focus on the Westerosi market, their investment in dye plant cultivation and processing, and their attraction of skilled artisans, the Lanells transformed Lion's Den into a prosperous and self-sufficient island, bolstering their own wealth and influence within the Stepstones.
House Grafton would receive the Isle of Serpents, which they renamed to Gull Isle, but they would retain the Grafton name. The island's economy thrived on fishing and agriculture. Small orchards of olive trees and fruit-bearing plants dotted the landscape, adding to the island’s produce. Gull Isle's prosperity, however, was significantly boosted by its strategic position and the shrewd policies of House Grafton, who fostered close ties with their Vale counterparts. Gull Isle became a haven for Vale ships, particularly those aligned with House Grafton. These vessels, welcomed with open arms, enjoyed access to the island’s harbours and services at preferential rates, giving them a distinct advantage in trade. This policy not only enriched the Graftons but also allowed Vale merchants to better compete with rivals, such as the Velaryons of Driftmark, whose ships, while numerous, did not receive the same favorable treatment on Gull Isle or indeed on any other island. This shrewd commercial strategy turned Gull Isle into a vital trading post for Vale merchants, strengthening the Graftons’ influence and bolstering their wealth.
Beyond simply offering favourable rates, the Grafton’s actively encouraged the development of specialized industries that catered to the needs of visiting Vale ships. Shipwrights, skilled in repairing and maintaining vessels, established workshops on the island, providing valuable services to the seafaring merchants. Ropemakers, sailmakers, and other craftsmen who provided essential maritime supplies also found a thriving market on Gull Isle. This focus on maritime-related crafts transformed the island into a key hub for ship provisioning and repair, further enhancing its economic importance.
House Stark would receive Dustspear, which was somewhat a surprise to all as they had always been though of as a land based power. However just like the Arryn's of the Eyrie in Gulltown, the Starks owned docks in White Harbour, docks which held the few ships owned by the Starks. This lack of a fleet required them to quickly purchase a fleet out of sell sails and merchant ships. In truth their receiving of Dustspear seemed to be more an attempt by the Queen to retain the support of the North than an objective reward based on the fleets they provided. For even with the sell sails they provided as much support as the Mooton's who were given lesser lands, though they contributed much more gold to the Crown. House Stark renamed to Direwolf's Cay and the cadet branch would take the name of House Saltwolf. Cattle herding formed the backbone of the island’s economy, the rolling hills and verdant pastures providing ample grazing land which was otherwise unsuitable to agriculture with few olive orchards in comparison to Ryam's isle. The island’s hardy cattle, well-suited to the rugged terrain, provided a steady supply of meat and hides, further bolstering the island’s trade.
Compared to its more prosperous neighbors, Direwolf's Cay was less densely populated and its development was more rustic. But they also encouraged the development of specialized crafts related to animal products. Tanneries sprung up, producing high-quality leather goods. These products, prized for their practicality and quality, found ready markets in Westeros and beyond. While Direwolf's Cay might not have achieved the same level of wealth as some of its neighbors, House Saltwolf, through their practical approach and careful management, transformed it into a prosperous and self-sufficient island.
House Tarth would receive Larazor’s Rock and its cadet branch would become House Larazor. Their island is the southern most and stormiest of the major isles and they were confident they could make the best use out of it as they were used to the storms, which were the same ones which battered the Stormlands, travelling from the summer sea up north until it hit the mainland. The were rewarded for this service by the gods for small but still rich seams of silver were found on Larazor's Rock, making the Larazor's wealthy enough nearly overnight, though the vein would not compare to those found in the Westerlands.
The main settlement of their Island the Larazor Harbour also became a major fishing hub, with it becoming a major producer of fish oil and fish pastes in particular, as the island was blessed with the largest fishing waters relative to its size due to its location further away from most of the other major isle's. Skilled fishermen from the Stormlands were encouraged to settle on Larazor's Rock, bringing with them their expertise and contributing to the island's growing fishing fleet. Recognizing the importance of the fishing industry, the Larazor's invested in building sturdy fishing boats, capable of withstanding the harsh sea conditions. They also established facilities for processing and preserving fish, ensuring the quality and longevity of their exports.
Beyond these natural advantages, the Larazors actively sought to improve their island and capitalize on its unique position. Its location also made it the first island that Lysene ships encountered in the Stepstones with many stopping to restock water and food, providing the island some trade opportunity as well.
House Harlaw and House Pyke, sharing the island of Scarwood, agreed to divide it equally between them with the Greyjoys taking the East and the Harlaws the West, keeping its original name after failing to settle on a new one. Both houses established cadet branches, retaining their respective names. The island's economy centered around agriculture and pastoralism, with the cultivation of chestnuts, olives, and grapes, alongside the herding of sheep and goats. However, the peace brought to the Stepstones by Prince Baelon's campaign had an unforeseen consequence for Scarwood. The island became a haven for Ironborn captains, eager to claim the Iron Price for wealth, but now deprived of their traditional reaving grounds. The Stepstones and the shores of the Disputed Lands, once prime targets for Ironborn raids, were now forbidden to them.Some less prudent captains, ignoring the new reality, attempted to continue their reaving ways within the Stepstones. These ventures, however, were swiftly curtailed. Their targets were no longer disorganized pirates but well-armed and experienced Westerosi nobles, quick to defend their new holdings. The foolish reavers were either executed by beheading or met a fiery end at the claws of Vhagar, Prince Baelon's dragon. It wasn't until Prince Baelon forcibly redirected the Ironborn nobility's attention towards the Basilisk Isles and Sothoryos that Scarwood, and its neighbors, finally found peace. This suppression of reaving within the Stepstones had a ripple effect, significantly decreasing the overall amount of raiding conducted by the Ironborn. Reaving became almost exclusively the domain of the nobility as the cost and distances increased, forcing the Iron Islands to rely more heavily on trade. The Iron Price, when paid at all, was primarily through service as sell sails, with Ironborn warriors fighting for the various Free Cities in their constant trade wars.
On Scarwood, the Harlaws and the Pykes, adapting to this new reality, focused on developing their agricultural and pastoral resources. They encouraged the cultivation of high-value crops, such as olive varieties prized for their oil. They also invested in improving their sheep and goat herds, focusing on breeds that produced high-quality wool and meat. Skilled farmers and shepherds from the Iron Islands were encouraged to settle on Scarwood, bringing with them their expertise. Recognizing the potential for trade, the Harlaws and the Pykes established trading partnerships with merchants from other Stepstones islands and the mainland. They also encouraged the development of local crafts related to their primary economic activities, such as weaving, pottery, and the production of olive oil.
House Martell received the Golden Haven, a small island nestled within the bay of the larger island Guardian(renamed to Lions Den), which protects the isle from the worst of the weather. This meant it was fertile and valuable despite its smaller size, producing wine and olive oil though it would not be a major trade center, selling its produce mostly through the markets of the other larger islands such as Glittering Isle, Ryam's Isle and Oros.
House Sunstone would retain the island of Sunstone. But they would face a blow when the Royal Fleet at Sunstone was shifted to Oros instead. The Island was a vital hub in the stepstone and dornish trade networks and the island's economy thrived on this trade, with merchants exporting goods like cotton, olive oil, wine, and salt. The island's fertile plains supported the cultivation of various crops, including wheat, barley, and meat in the form of goats. Sunstone wine and Olive Oil, in particular, was highly prized and exported throughout the region, the Island was heavily influenced by its Valyrian origins being composed of settlers from Dragonstone.
All the minor islands and reefs were also divided between the stepstone houses, most however would remain uninhabited and would be so small most maps would not include them.
As such over the years the Stepstones slowly began to resemble civilised lands like anywhere else in the world.