Band of Princes

The Band of Princes was an alliance of mercenary captains that lead to the conquest of several Free Cities. The term is also used to describe the alliance between the Principality of Norvos, New Valyria, and Pentos.

Origins of the Band of Princes
The alliance was said to have begun with talks between members of the Maiden's Men and of the Golden Company, in 282. The decision to take territory for themselves was most likely a mix of opportunism, along with grand plans by certain members of the alliance. The alliance would soon grow to include the Iron Shields and the Windblown. The Maiden's Men would be the first to achieve their goal, by taking the city of Norvos, and all of its territory. Soon after, its captain general would become High Magister of Norvos, and a prominent member, Arya of Lemonwood, would become Princess of Norvos.

The Golden Company had more difficulty achieving its goal, perhaps because of the rivalries occurring between the various Free Cities. It originally took Myr, which it took through deception. Then it went on to fight a large war, which resulted in its conquest of Volantis, and would lead to the establishment of New Valyria.

The Windblown would take Pentos after a short war.

The Band as an Alliance
After the members of the Band of Princes achieved their goal, the alliance drifted apart. The name however was applied to the alliance between the Principality of Norvos, New Valyria, and Pentos. Soon after its establishment, New Valyria would bring in the Iron Shields to its service. It also annexed Pentos into its empire. Although their relations were cordial, Norvos maintained its equal status in the alliance as New Valyria tried to increase its influence over it. The Dothraki invasion of both nations would result in the dissolution of the alliance. Soon after, remnants of the Golden Company would make their way to the Principality of the Rhoynar where their original alliance was maintained. This cooperation would last until the war against the Imperium, when the Golden Company was destroyed and the Rhoynar made to flee abroad.

Members of the Band of Princes
Will Burke - Captain General of the Maiden's Men. An original member of the alliance.

Arya of Lemonwood - Member and later Captain General of the Maiden's Men. An original member of the alliance.

William Hill - Captain General of the Golden Company. An original member of the alliance.

The Tattered Prince - Captain of the Windblown. Although joined later, considered an original member of the alliance.

Julio Foras - Captain of the Iron Shields. An original member of the alliance.

Ser Robyn Hood - Member and later Captain General of the Maiden's Men. Considered a member as his prominence increased.

Ragnar of Lorath - Member of the Maiden's Men. Became a member after his marriage to Princess Arya.