Rhaenyra and Alicent’s Rivalry

This thread traces the personal and political estrangement between Rhaenyra and Alicent as it becomes a legacy inherited by their children.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

A Warm Beginning

Stepmother and Stepdaughter Public Affection Rhaenyra pours wine for Alicent and the new queen calls her daughter. The ceremony suggests the household may become one family. Rival Claims The royal succession remains unsettled. Alicent’s sons and Rhaenyra’s position as heir place personal affection under political pressure.

A Court Divides

Rivalry Becomes Politics Competing Influence Rhaenyra and Alicent each gather supporters at court. Their interests are strengthened by the question of whether Viserys will alter the succession. Colors Become Allegiance At the 111 AC tourney, green and black clothing mark opposing factions. Personal rivalry becomes a political identity that others can join.

Motherhood and Accusation

Children as Evidence Competing Families Rhaenyra’s sons and Alicent’s children grow up amid mutual suspicion. Disputes over parentage and succession harden the factions. A Public Breaking Point Aemond loses an eye in a fight with his nephews. Viserys demands reconciliation, but the mothers’ anger survives the ceremony.

Aegon’s Ascension

Rival Queens Aegon Is Crowned Alicent and the green council crown Aegon II before Rhaenyra learns of her father’s death. Rhaenyra Responds Rhaenyra’s coronation turns the household conflict into civil war. Each woman believes the other’s faction endangers her children and her claim.

The Last Bargain Fails

No Reconciliation Alicent Pleads for Peace Alicent proposes dividing the realm after Rhaenyra takes the capital, but Rhaenyra refuses to pardon the brothers she blames for her sons’ deaths. A Personal Conflict Ends Rhaenyra later dies and Alicent outlives her children. The rivalry has consumed the family it was meant to protect.

106 AC, at Viserys and Alicent’s wedding

109–111 AC, as the factions take shape

114–120 AC, as Rhaenyra’s sons grow

129 AC, after Viserys dies

130 AC, during Rhaenyra’s rule in King’s Landing