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There have been many stories told of the dragons of House Royce. A house descendent of First Men who would end up raising a generation of dragon blood that would forever change the fate of House Royce forever. Lady Rhea Royce was the ruler of Runestone in her own right who was married to the Royce Prince from the year she was sixteen until his death. Her decision to raise the bastards of her husband has long been attributed to the customs of Old Valyria where such children were raised in the household of the first wife. While there is much debate if she did so willingly or was pressure by the Old King she did choose to raise them. She raised these children alongside her one true born son and the children of her cousins. Her compassion for the children has been noted on more than one occasion in the historical records that survive. But one thing is for certain. Whatever led her to his decision it was a fortuitous occurrence that changed that fate of her house forever.
Tiana Water whose desire to become a warrior led to her fostering on Bear Island under House Mormont. Tiana’s skill as a warrior would eventually surpass her father and lead Tiana to gain the love of a Prince of Dorne. But despite her travels across Westeros her loyalty would always lie with Rhea Royce.
Robar Royce, named for the First and the Last of the Bronze Kings, was the only child born of his parent’s marriage. A level headed and calm boy Robb, as he was known by most, was a fast learner whose desire to make his mother proud was only rivalled by his hatred of his father. Robb loved all of his siblings and would fight any and all who questioned their place in Runestone. He is also known as the boy who spurned Rhaenyra Targaryen and declared he would never marry her. The feud that followed would last for years.
Naethan Waters was born two moons after his half brother Robar. Naethan was a boy who felt like he never belonged anywhere. Despite the care of Lady Royce Naethan felt he was owed more from House Targaryen. His desire to rise above his station led to his friendship with his cousin Rhaenyra and his bond with Lady Alicent Hightower. Tales are told of how Alicent declared she would never wed a bastard. His eventual claiming of the dragon young king he eventually named Sunfyre and knighthood gained him recognition he so craved. But when Queen Aemma died and Lady Alicent became queen he famously spurned her invitation to be in the Kingsguard and left for Runestone where he would eventually marry Jeyne Arryn.
Baelor Stone was born into the world screaming. His anger at the world and everyone within it noted multiples times across writings and in songs from the time period. However his devotion for Lady Rhea is the stuff of legend. It is said that when it was discovered that Rhaenyra Targaryen insulted House Royce and Lady Rhea in particular the Cannibal was summoned by the rage of a boy of ten namedays. The boy and his mount would become the fiercest defender the Vale had ever known and his part in the Dance of the Dragons ensured his name still echoes almost a thousand years later.
Maekar Waters was the child of the famed Lady Misery and eventual Lady of Whispers. Maekar was a cheerful boy who bright nature is rare for members of House Targaryen. Eventually Maekar would grow to explore the world and gain trade, power, and influence for House Royce. His marriage to Thea Greyjoy would help House Royce grow into a true naval power whose reach would rival House Velaryon at their height.
These children would change the fate of House Royce forever.