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My Champion Is Fire: The Executions of Brandon and Rickard Stark by Mad King Aerys

February 24, 2025 | By History of Westeros

King Aerys II had Brandon Stark seized and imprisoned on charges of treason, but Lord Rickard declared he would stand for his son in a trial by combat. Yet instead of an honorable duel, the Mad King declared that House Targaryen’s champion… would be fire. We take on the full, horrifying story.


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Episode Summary

This week on “History of Westeros,” we delve into one of the most brutal and pivotal moments in Westerosi history: the executions of Brandon and Rickard Stark at the hands of the Mad King Aerys II. Join us as we unravel the events leading up to this tragic event, exploring the political maneuvering, the accusations of treason, and the horrifying spectacle of the King’s twisted “trial by combat.” With insightful commentary from our guests, Ash and Aziz, we dissect the cultural clash between the proud Northmen and the increasingly erratic Targaryen court, examining the legacy of this event and its impact on the war to come. Prepare to be shocked, angered, and deeply immersed in the dark heart of King’s Landing as we uncover the full horror of Aerys II’s reign of terror. Available now with a captivating Spotify video!

Characters

Aerys II TargaryenBran Stark

Houses

House StarkHouse Targaryen

Tags

Aerys IIaerys ii targaryenbran starkbrandon starkCulture: NorthmenFigureGuest: AshGuest: Azizhouse targaryenking's landingMad Kingrickard starkSpotify VideoThe CrownlandsTopicsmootTreason

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