The Last Descendants of Valyria: Their Legacy and Influence in Essos and Westeros

The Doom of Valyria marked a significant turning point in the history of the Valyrian Freehold, the once-mighty empire that dominated the eastern shores of Essos for thousands of years. This cataclysmic event not only led to the destruction of the Valyrian homeland but also had profound and lasting impacts on the neighboring regions of Essos and Westeros. In this article, we explore the legacy of the Valyrian descendants and their influence in these domains, focusing on the free cities, the Dothraki horses, and the concept of demonlands.

Unfolding Aftermath: Breaking the Chains of Valyria

The Doom, a series of devastating earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, decimated the Valyrian Freehold in 114 BC. This event freed many vassal peoples, enabling them to reclaim their lands and forge new destinies. Among these were the Ghiscari, who quickly regained control of their territories, though they were unable to fully re-establish the grandeur of the Valyrian Empire. Meanwhile, the western colonies broke away, forming the renowned Free Cities of Westeros. These cities, despite constant attempts to reinvigorate the Valyrian Empire by Volantis, remained independent and flourished under their new governance.

The Targaryen Invasion and the End of Valyrian Dominance

Over a century after the Doom, the House Targaryen of Dragonstone emerged as the last surviving lineage from the Old Valyria. This family, led by Aegon I the Conqueror, launched a sweep which would change the courses of history. Under his command, House Targaryen, along with Houses Velaryon and Celtigar, began an invasion of Westeros in 1 AC. Their mission was to conquer the entire continent and establish their rule. This ambitious venture successfully turned Westeros into a Targaryen domain, leaving the Valyrian lineage in the shadows.

The Valyrian legacy, however, did not fade away completely. The prefectures that once belonged to the Valyrians continued to exist, albeit under different governance. A few towns and villages in Essos still bear the remnants of Valyrian heritage. Today, these places continue to stand as testaments to the once great Valyrian civilization. Additionally, the extensive great roads, which stretch for thousands of kilometers from Pentos to Slaver's Bay, are a physical reminder of the vast influence the Valyrian successors had in the region. These roads serve as crucial transportation networks, connecting key cities and facilitating trade and cultural exchange.

The Rise of the Dothraki and the Demonlands

The liberation of the vassal peoples from Valyrian control allowed new powers to rise, particularly the Dothraki. These nomadic horsemen of the central steppes of Essos capitalized on the weakened status of other powers to achieve numbers and dominance in the central regions of the continent. The Dothraki, renowned for their prowess in warfare and mobility, expanded their influence and expanded their territories. This rise of the Dothraki was closely intertwined with the story of the Free Cities and the legacy of the Targaryen conquest of Westeros.

The demonlands, a mysterious and dark region associated with the Valyrian mysticism, became a haunting symbol of old-world magic and power. It was believed that these lands were granted to the Valyrians by the old gods and were home to a realm inhabited by demons and ghosts. Despite the destruction of Valyria, the demonlands remained a subject of fear and fascination, often depicted as a cursed and dangerous territory.

Conclusion

The legacy of the Valyrian descendants in Essos and Westeros is complex and multi-faceted. Although the cataclysmic Doom of Valyria brought an end to their direct rule, their influence and legacy lived on in various forms. Through the emergence of new powers like the free cities, the rise of the Dothraki, and the mysterious demonlands, the memory of Valyria continued to shape the landscape both geographically and culturally. Today, understanding the history of the Valyrian descendants offers valuable insights into the intricate and dynamic nature of world-building in these regions.