Author's note: I want to thank all of the great readers to this story because with the last chapter posted, the story hit over a hundred favs! Granted, that pales in comparison to other stories but I'm still stoked. Thank you all!
Once again, special thanks to Milarqui for your help!
Disclaimer: I do not own Game of Thrones or Elder Scrolls.
Chapter 9: Politics, How Tiresome
Winterfell
Bran Stark shifted in his sleep. He was dreaming... or, at least, he thought he was.
He was seeing the three-eyed raven again, and, as he walked towards it, the raven suddenly stared behind Bran. He turned to see what it was looking at, and suddenly the world changed around him.
Bran felt like he was floating, and then the light came back and he gasped. He did not know where he was, for words could not really describe what he was seeing. It was, simply, beyond the comprehension of mere mortals. However, in his mind, he realized that he was floating within the boundaries between realms.
Image after image seemed to appear in front of him. He saw a woman who held a crescent moon in her right hand and a sunburst in her left. Nearby, another woman who resembled the first slipped silent through the shadows.
A flash of light and he appeared elsewhere. He heard a voice.
"It appears we all will have some influence again. So many mortals are indulging themselves these days. It causes our influence to spread." This figure was very tall, and wore strange armor unlike any that Bran had ever seen. His skin was almost black with some red markings on his face and he had horns on his head.
Another flash and Bran reappeared over a table where two figures were sitting.
"War is on the horizon. Burn them all. Burn them all. Everything will BURN!" cackled an old man with a long beard and a crown on his head.
"HOHO! So sure are you! Why am I here again? Why are we even meeting? I wonder what some mortal readers are thinking." The second man looked strange to Bran, for he seemed to be dressed in bright clothing that reminded him of a jester.
"Who are you refereeing to?"
"Oh, mortals read all sorts of strange things. Does anyone else hear the sound of a wall breaking? Oh well, I always enjoy having a tea party with you, good 'ol Aerys. Always talking about burning things and a toad named Maurice."
Once again, light flashed before Bran and he found himself floating in a void. He could see two figures in the distance. One resembled some sort of cross between a man and a lizard while the other had four arms. Suddenly, the two figures turn and seemed to be racing towards Bran and he felt fear rising in him. He needed to get out of there.
Bran suddenly felt a figure behind him. A woman's voice spoke to him.
You should not be here, Bran Stark. It's not safe.
Bran's vision was again filled with light. When he opened his eyes again, he gasped as he found himself in the sky. He looked down and could see Winterfell thousands of feet below him. When he looked back up, he found a glowing orb of light in front of him.
Dark times are ahead. You will find my shrine far to the north. You will understand in time. Come find me, Bran Stark.
Bran then began to fall. He looked down and could see Winterfell rushing up to meet him. His vision turned white...
Bran's eyes snapped open in surprise.
"The little lord's been dreaming again," Old Nan commented. Bran instinctively frowned at her.
"Are you feeling well, Bran?" Danica Pure-Springs asked, as she walked up and laid a hand on Bran's forehead. She idly petted Bran's wolf, Summer. "You're sweating. Bad dreams?"
Bran did not answer for a moment.
"Is it possible to see things other than what you dream? While you're sleeping, I mean."
Danica tilted her head at the odd question.
"Old texts describe various different seer-like abilities that allow people to see beyond the mortal plane. Sometimes sleeping, sometimes when you're awake. Such things are rare, however. Even rarer than the magic I've shown you before."
"Did you ever meet any of these people?"
"I once met a priestess of Azura who said her lady sent her visions. That was years ago. I'm not certain where she is today."
"Doing better, Bran?" Theon question as he walked in. "We have visitors."
"I don't want to see anyone."
"Really? After being cooped up in hear all day?" Theon replied. "Come on, Bran. I know you don't want to stay here. You could do with some fresh air. Robb's waiting."
"Theon's right," Danica said. "I know what you thinking, but you are not a cripple. You don't have anything to be ashamed of." Danica then flicked Bran's foot. "Feel that?"
"Yes," Bran answered in confusion.
"That's proof. If your spine wasn't healed, then you wouldn't feel anything in your feet or legs. After we meet the visitors, you are going to do some physical exercises, and you'll see how you start getting better," Danica replied as she smiled.
"Hodor," Theon called out. the huge man immediately entered the room.
"Hodor?"
"Help Bran to the main hall," Theon ordered as they all left.
In the Great Hall, Tyrion stood before Robb alongside Yoren of the Night's Watch.
"I must say, I received a warmer welcome on my last visit," Tyrion commented.
"Any man of the Night's Watch is welcomed in Winterfell," Robb greeted Yoren, ignoring Tyrion.
"Any man of the Night's Watch but not I, my boy?"
"I'm not your boy, Lannister. I'm Lord of Winterfell while my father is away," Robb growled at Tyrion. When his mother informed him of her belief that the Lannisters were behind the assassination attempt on Bran's life, Robb was ready to call the banners and march to war.
Even though William was related to the Lannisters, Robb did not like the presence of one in Winterfell. Will was a good friend, but his mother's family may be plotting against the Starks.
"Then you might learn a Lord's courtesy," Tyrion admonished. He turned as he heard the doors open, and Hodor entered carrying Bran and helped him as he sat down on a bench. Bran's legs decided to shake a little as weight was put onto them but they didn't give out before Bran fully sat.
"Hello Bran. Glad to see your recovering well," Tyrion greeted. "Do you remember anything about what happened?"
"He has no memory of that day," Maester Luwin answered instead.
"It's not that uncommon," Danica spoke up. "People often forget things that happened just before a major injury. It may come back to him in time."
"A pity," Tyrion noted. "Do you like to ride Bran?"
"Yes, but I can't yet. Not like this."
"And why not? With the right horse and saddle, even a temporary cripple can ride," Tyrion replied before handing out a roll of paper. Bran unrolled it to see pictures of a saddle with leg straps. "Give that to your saddler, he'll provide the rest. With this, you'll be able to ride until your legs full mend themselves."
"Is this some kind of trick?" Robb demanded. "Why do you want to help him?"
"I have a tender spot in my heart for bastards, broken things, and cripples, however temporary they are," Tyrion answered. "And any friend of my nephew, William, is a friend of mine. Even if they don't return the feeling."
Robb stared for a moment before finally forcing himself to reply.
"You've done my brother a kindness. The hospitality of Winterfell is yours."
"Spare me your false courtesies, Lord Stark. There's a brothel outside your walls. There I'll find a bed and both of us can sleep easier," Tyrion replied before leaving the room.
Outside the castle, Tyrion mounted onto his horse next to his Lannister guards. A moment later, Theon walked out.
"If you like redheads, Lannister, ask for Ross."
"Come to see me off, Greyjoy? Kind of you, even though your master doesn't seem to like Lannisters."
"Robb is not my master. He, Jon, Will, and I are all friends," Theon replied.
"Really? It makes one wonder how Balon Greyjoy would react if he heard that about his only surviving son," Tyrion commented. "Some would think it odd for a Baratheon and a Greyjoy to be friends."
"I said the same thing to Will once," Theon admitted, to Tyrion's surprise. "I asked him why he would be friends with the son of a man who rebelled against his own father."
"What did he say?"
"He said he's not his father and I'm not my father. We may have a reason to dislike each other's fathers, but not each other," Theon answered as he glanced down in thought. "It's funny. I thought he was being silly. But now I value his friendship."
"William does have some charismatic abilities. Oh, one more thing, Greyjoy," Tyrion said as he tossed a coin at Theon. "Here, your next tumble with Ross is on me. As I said, any friend of my nephews is mine as well. Don't worry, I'll find a girl different from Ross so that I don't wear her out before you visit her."
Castle Black
Jon traded a couple of blows with Grenn and Pyp, as he gave them advice about swordsmanship. Also with them was Agmaer, a young blond-haired man who had recently been recruited by the Dawnguard. Agmaer had felt nervous about joining the Dawnguard, but he had been easily accepted by Isran, who had said Agmaer had great potential. Meanwhile, Serana was leaning against a wall, not too far away, watching them.
Jon was now wearing his new set of grey Dawnguard Armor. Gunmar, the Dawnguard's armorer, had supplied him a set soon after Jon informed Isran of his decision to join the Dawnguard, as well as a crossbow that was now slung on his back: Isran had told him to carry one, even if he was more of a hands-on fighter.
"What in the Seven Hells is that?" Grenn suddenly spoke up as he looked behind Jon. They all turned to see Alliser Thorne walking towards them with a very fat boy who looked to be around Jon's age.
"Tell them your name," Alliser commanded.
"Samwell Tarly," the newly introduced Sam spoke. "I've come to take the Black."
"Come to take the black pudding?" Rast joked as he walked up.
"Well, you couldn't be any worse then you look. Rast, see what he can do," Alliser ordered.
Sam attempted to glare but as soon as Rast attacked, Sam let out a scared cry and was struck several times before he fell.
"I yield! I yield!" he cried out from the ground.
"On your feet, and pick up your sword!" Alliser commanded. When Sam did not stand right away he turned to Rast. "Hit him until he finds his feet."
Sam yelled as Rast struck him again. Jon however, would not stand for it. He ignored Pyp when he laid a hand on him.
"That's enough! Hitting him over and over again isn't going to help him, or anyone, get better!" Jon said as he walked over and helped Sam up.
"Well, it seems the bastard's in love," Alliser mocked as he and Jon exchanged glares. Alliser was one of the Night's Watch officers who did not like the Dawnguard. In his mind, he believed that, if someone wanted to defend the Wall, then they should join the Watch. This resulted in a silent clash between him and Jon, as Jon would get several members of the Watch and the Dawnguard to train together, in order to promote some friendship between the two groups.
"Why don't we make and exercise out of it. You two," Alliser said as he pointed to Grenn and Pyp. "Three of you ought to be enough. You just have to get past the bastard."
"And me," Agmaer spoke up. He stepped next to Jon and gave him an encouraging smile.
"Are you going to join in, woman?" Alliser suddenly asked towards Serana.
"Why? Jon could take them by himself. He doesn't need me. Though, if you decide to join in, I wouldn't mind putting you in your place if you want," Serana grinned, which caused Alliser to glare at her.
"Are you sure you want to do this?" Jon asked Grenn.
"No," Grenn replied in exasperation.
Rast immediately attacked, Jon who parried the blow and kneed him in the gut before punching him away. Pyp attacked, but he was intercepted by Agmaer before Jon stepped closer and elbowed Pyp away. Jon then blocked Grenn's strike before slamming the hilt of his sword into Grenn and sending him stumbling back. Rast had recovered and tried to attack Jon's exposed back, but was stopped dead in his tracks when a cross bolt knocked his sword out of his hand.
"Well, my new crossbow design seems to be more accurate," Sorine grinned. She loaded a new bolt as she casually walked up.
"I didn't say you could join in, woman," Alliser glared.
"Well, it's a good thing I'm part of the Dawnguard and don't answer to you, then," Sorine glared back.
Alliser just remained quiet for a moment before turning to leave.
"We're done for today."
"Are you alright?" Sam asked Jon.
"I wasn't even hit," Jon answered.
Sam nodded before speaking again.
"You can call me Sam, if you want."
"Why didn't you get up and fight?" Grenn asked.
"I wanted to," Sam replied, "but... I just couldn't. I'm a coward."
"Well, then. Try using this," Sorine suddenly spoke as she handed Sam a crossbow. "Some say a crossbow is a coward's weapon, so give it a try."
Sam stared in surprise at the crossbow.
"I-I've never used a crossbow before."
"It's an easy weapon to use," Jon said. "Try it on that barrow."
Sam hesitated before he took aim.
"I should warn you, I don't see all too well." He fired the bolt which, to his surprise, struck the barrow.
"Leave distance to the longbows. Crossbows are meant to be used at closer range and rely more on power," Sorine said. "Keep practicing."
As Sam loaded another bolt, he paused.
"While I've never fired a crossbow before now, I have examined them before. These ones are modified, aren't they?"
Sorine blinked. She was impressed.
"Not many people really notice the modifications I've made. You're sharper than you look." She then hummed to herself as she thought of something. "Perhaps you can help me with a new design I'm working on."
Jon left the two of them to talk. He was wondering why Sam was even here.
Vaes Dothrak, The Dothraki Sea
As the Khalasar topped over a hill, the capital of the Dothraki people entered Daenerys' view. Khal Drogo and several of his bloodriders rode ahead, yelling and shouting their arrival.
"Vaes Dothrak. City of the Horselords," Jorah announced.
"It's just a pile of mud," Viserys said as he stared at the sprawling city of huts. "Is this the best these savages can do?"
"These are my people now. You shouldn't call them that," Daenerys said in anger. While her relationship with her brother was never a strong one, she was beginning to get tired of his attitude.
"I'll call them what I like because they are my people. My army to conquer the Seven Kingdoms, and Khal Drogo is marching them the wrong way," Viserys argued. "The sooner we are done in this place the better, so that I can reclaim my kingdom and deal with that usurper's son."
Viserys angrily rode ahead of the column. Daenerys stared after him in confusion.
"Usurper's son?" Daenerys murmured out loud. "Does he mean the Black Prince? I thought my brother didn't care about the tales about the Black Prince."
"Perhaps he feels threatened by those tales, Khaleesi," Jorah answered. "There are many of them after all. Plenty of them sound farfetched to me, however."
"Some of them are, and some of them aren't, Ser Jorah," Farengar commented as he rode up. "I know for a fact that some of them are true."
"How would you know?" Daenerys asked in confusion.
"Because I've met Prince William before, Lady Daenerys."
"You've met him? But how? And where?" Daenerys exclaimed in shock. Jorah's head shot over and he gave a suspicious look at Farengar.
"I suppose 'met' is the wrong word, my Lady. I've never actually met him, but I have seen him in person," Farengar clarified as he turned towards Daenerys. "I was present in King's Landing when the Black Prince converted to the Nine Divines. I witnessed the ceremony."
"Then, are some of the tales true?" Daenerys asked, intrigued. "Did he really create the Royal Army at age nine, and defeat an army three times larger than his own?"
"Most of the work to design the Legions was done by General Tullius. However, the Black Prince was the driving force behind the Legions. Without him, the Legions would have never been created," Farengar answered. "I was not present at the Second Battle of Long Lake, as I was already in Essos at that time. I still keep contact with some acquaintances in Westeros however. From what I've heard, the Black Prince did, indeed, lead the Legions to victory against a much larger army of Wildlings with minimal losses."
Daenerys blinked in surprise. She mulled over what she heard. Someone who was a little younger than her had already won a battle? She turned towards Jorah.
"If my brother was given a Dothraki army, could it conquer the Seven Kingdoms?"
"The Dothraki have never crossed the Narrow Sea. They fear any water that their horses can't drink," Jorah answered.
"But if they did?" Daenerys pressed.
"King Robert is fool enough to meet them in open battle with levies from the different kingdoms, but the men advising them are different," came the answer after Jorah thought for a moment. "I, myself, however, have never seen the Legions fight before. All I know is what I've heard. That the Legions are professional soldiers. I truly do not know how they would compare to the Dothraki."
"And if this Black Prince were to lead them?" Daenerys questioned. "He defeated an army three times the size of his army."
Jorah turned and looked Daenerys in the eyes.
"That's only one battle, Khaleesi. One victory doesn't make you a warlord."
Daenerys was silent for a moment as they entered Vaes Dothrak. And yet, he hasn't lost a battle either, she thought.
King's Landing
It was early in the morning, just before the sun would rise. William let out a chuckle as he parried another strike from Arya. The two of them would often practice early morning and late in the evening.
"You're getting better, wolf girl. I think you might already be better than Bran and Tommen. But then again, neither of them could land a blow on me either."
Arya grimaced as she tried to strike William. Despite all her efforts, however, he kept dodging or parrying her blows. She thought that, with two swords, she would be able to hit him easier, but she was wrong. He made up the difference by switching his sword from hand to hand or grabbing her wrist with his free hand to stop a strike. Once, just once, she wanted to land a successful strike on him!
The two of them locked blades and stared at each other.
"Looks like watching the Blades train at Winterfell is paying off some. But you still have a ways to go, wolf girl."
Arya suddenly got a sneaky idea.
"Oh really, silly stag?" Arya said as she slowly leaned her head towards Williams and gave him a seductive smirk. "I think you're underestimating me."
William's eyes widened as he gave her a dumbfounded look. She had never acted this way before. Which resulted in him being unprepared for when Arya suddenly kicked him in the shin, which in turn left him completely exposed to her off-handed weapon jabbing him in the gut.
William held his stomach with his free hand as he glared at Arya. She just giggled at him before assuming another stance. Her eyes daring him to come at her.
Alright then, William thought before he drove forward. Arya attempted to strike at him but he step sided and grabbed her wrist and pinned it behind her back.
"Two can play that game, wolf girl," William whispered in Arya's ear. She couldn't hold back the blush that appeared on her cheeks. She then felt his sword at her throat.
"And you're dead," William chuckled.
"Indeed you are, Arya dear," Syrio spoke as he and Delphine watched from the sidelines.
"But I got him in the stomach! That means I won! Right?" Arya exclaimed.
"You struck him with you off-handed weapon, which would have been Needle, in the center of his gut. In a real fight, William would be wearing armor, and Needle would most likely be unable to penetrate in a direct attack. You need to aim for the joints and weak points in the armor," Delphine explained before turning towards William. "For tonight's practice, you'll wear full armor, my Prince. This will help Arya learn where to target against men in armor."
"I agree," William said before grinning at Arya. "Seriously Arya, I'm really impressed at how quickly you're learning."
"Just wait, Will. Soon you'll be getting welts from my blade," Arya grinned back.
"I can't say I'm looking forward to that," William replied, before sighing. "It's about time I get ready. Your father has asked me to do something for him today."
"I wish you could stay and practice more with me," Arya said in sadness. William could not help himself as he and Arya stared in each other's eyes for a moment. They both turned away with reddening cheeks.
"As do I. But Delphine and Syrio can teach you more than I can," William encouraged. He had to admit it, Arya and him were growing closer together than he expected. "Make sure you spend some time with Esbern, I hear he's enjoying teaching you different languages."
"I'm enjoying the lessons too! I had no idea there was a language for dragons! It's almost as fun to learn as swordsmanship," Arya replied in excitement.
William laughed as he left the room. He cleaned up and dressed in some formal wear. He needed to present himself well for what Eddard had asked him to do.
This is going to give more than a few people some shock, William thought.
Small Council Chambers
The members of the Small Council, minus Eddard Stark, gathered around the table and prepared for the day's issues. With them was Janos Slynt, the commander of the city watch, the 'Gold Cloaks'.
"The Hand seems to be a little late today," Janos noted.
"The council meeting does not begin until the Hand arrives," Pycelle replied.
"True, though it is a little odd for Ned to not have arrived yet," Renly commented.
The door to the room opened and everyone turned expecting Lord Stark to enter.
"Sorry I'm late," William said as he entered. "I thought it would be best clean up after my sword practice before I came."
"Prince William. We were not expecting you to attend this meeting," Pycelle said in surprise.
"Do you have another fantastic proposal for the Small Council, nephew?" Renly grinned.
"Not exactly, uncle. But now that I'm here, we can start the meeting and get some issues out of the way," William relied.
"Lord Stark has not yet arrived, my Prince," Varys noted.
"That's because he's taking a break from his stressful duties," William informed the council as he handed a sealed scroll to Varys. He then sat down in the Hand's chair. "He's asked me to fill in his duties as Acting Hand for the day."
Surprise silence filled the room as Varys examined the document that was proof of William's announcement. For Ned Stark to appoint William as acting Hand was a surprising and bold move. Politically, this was basically announcing that the Hand and the Black Prince were now political allies in the game of thrones.
"Rather interesting that he chose you to be his substitute, Prince William," Baelish noted.
"To some, perhaps, but we should get started with today's work," William replied. The other council members sat down and Janos Slynt stepped forward but was cut off before he could speak. "Before we address whatever issue you have, Commander, I need to inform the council of an idea of mine for the upcoming tourney. You don't mind, do you?"
William held a strong distaste for Janos, as his city contacts had informed him that Janos was a very corrupt official. He wished he could just remove him as commander, but he needed a valid reason.
Janos blinked in surprise at the Prince disregarding him so quickly.
"I, uh...a-as you wish, my Prince."
"It will only take a moment," William said before he addressed the council. "I have an idea to help reduce the cost of the upcoming tournament. Each knight who wishes to participate must first offer up an ante. If they don't, they cannot compete."
"An ante?" Pycelle asked in confusion.
"You mean... like a certain amount of gold, nephew? A fee that must be paid in order to compete?" Renly questioned.
"Exactly, this will greatly help in covering the cost of the tourney," William answered.
"I beg your pardon, my Prince, but won't this discourage knights from joining?" Varys questioned.
"We will not have to worry about that. This tournament will be one of the grandest tournaments we've held in some time. It would dishonoring and shameful for a knight not to compete," William explained. "In fact, I imagine that, since the knights stand to lose something, they will try harder to win, and will give a much better show for all spectators."
"Very clever, my Prince. This makes it almost like gambling," Baelish observed.
"Does anyone have any more objections then?" William question. The council members remained silent. "Then it's settled. Now, what is it you want, commander?"
"My Prince, I'm here to request some for help in dealing with the trouble we're experiencing with the tournament that's upon us."
"What sort of trouble exactly?"
"The city is packed and more people are flooding in for the tournament. We've had a tavern fight, a brothel fire, three stabbings, and a drunken horse race last night alone."
"People are getting too excited, apparently," William said in exasperation. He was beginning to understand why Lord Stark disliked the whole idea.
"I need more men, my Prince. The amount I have is proving to not be enough for so many people in the city." Janos insisted.
"Can we recruit more city guard, Lord Baelish?" William asked.
"The Crown's already a bit short on funds, Prince William. It would be difficult," Baelish said without looking up from his ledger.
"I imagine so. Especially with a six million debt," William stated with a pointed glare as he silently confronted Baelish.
Still looking down at the ledger, Baelish let a mocking smirk appear on his face before slowly lifting his head.
"Well, my Prince, it can be difficult to manage coin. But if you want... you could check the treasury records," Littlefinger said with his smirk challenging William's glare.
William knew that Baelish was silently mocking him. He had already had his spies check to see if Baelish was still stealing from the Crown. Surprisingly, he wasn't. Probably because it would be too difficult to hide or would ruin his reputation if it seemed someone was stealing from the Treasury. However, he was making no effort to change the way he was managing the Crown's coin, which was increasing the debt, since he knew that William no longer had anything to hold over his head.
Well then, I think I'll just have to teach him a lesson, William thought as he turned back towards Janos.
"Have most of these brawls and stabbings occurred in the brothels?"
"Not all of them, my prince. But most are occurring at the brothels, yes," Janos answered.
"The things men do over women," Baelish commented as he looked back at his ledger.
"Perhaps we should deal with this in a different way," William spoke as he turned and looked directly at Baelish. "Let's close all of the city's brothels until the tournament has passed."
Baelish's quill froze in mid stroke. He slowly looked up at William. Since he owned the brothels, either directly or through a puppet, he would lose almost all of the profit he stood to gain. Which was exactly what William was going for.
"... My Prince," Baelish slowly began. "Do you not think that's a bit drastic? A lot of knights would be rather frustrated and tense without a way to... relax and relieve stress."
"Any frustration they have, they can let loose in the tournament's competitions," William replied without breaking his eyes from Littlefinger's. "I imagine that it would also give my father a good show, as well. The more realistic the better. Wouldn't you agree?"
"But surely there are alternatives... why not send for some of the Legions? Such professional troops would have no trouble in keeping the peace."
"The Legions are not meant to be a city guard. The Legion planned to protect the city in the future would stay in a fort outside the city, not the city itself. Regardless, that Legion has not been created yet, and I see no reason to bring other Legionaries out of patrols and waste resources in this matter."
Baelish stared for a moment at the Black Prince in anger. He glanced at the other council members in hopes of gaining support, but he was out of luck. Pycelle and Janos simply watched the events unfold, Renly was trying to keep himself from laughing at Littlefinger's expense and Varys simply gave Littlefinger an amused smile as he watched the battle of wills between the Mockingbird and the Black Prince.
Baelish finally looked back towards William who kept giving him a blank stare. Littlefinger had once last card to play, bribery.
"There's another way to settle this, my Prince. A donation from owners, alongside your proposed ante, would profit the crown and pay for all the tournament's expenses."
"That's true," William said with a thoughtful look.
"Indeed, Prince William." Baelish pressed. "I am certain that I can convince various owners of these establishments to give a small donation or percentage."
"A fine idea, Lord Baelish," William said before a small smirk appeared on his face. "A fifty percent of all profits would greatly benefit the crown."
Renly couldn't keep himself from snorting. Baelish barely managed to keep a straight face, but his eyes burned with anger. William was forcing him to either give up half of his profit or lose all of it. He had backed Baelish into a corner. Worst, he did it in front of the council.
"I think... that I can convince the owners to accommodate... my Prince," Baelish forced himself to say.
"Excellent! Looks like this tournament will profit the crown after all," William said with a smile. He turned back towards Janos. "In light of the new situation, commander, I can send for forty Legionaries to aid the City Watch. I think that would be enough for now."
"Thank you, Prince William. They will be put to good use."
"Now then," William addressed the council, "what else is there to discuss?"
Castle Black
"What are you waiting for?" Alliser asked.
Rast stared at Sam for a moment before his gaze meet Jon's. Jon stared back.
When Jon learned that Sam's own father had practically disowned him, he was filled with fury. He resolved to help Sam. He had no place in the world, and he needed a friend. Rast, however, had threatened Sam, and Jon wouldn't stand for it. With a little help from his direwolf, Ghost, he 'convinced' Rast to leave Sam alone the previous night.
"Attack him!" Alliser commanded.
Rast was more afraid of the direwolf than Alliser, so he lightly tapped Sam's shoulder. Sam just stared in confusion. Alliser lost his patience and ordered Grenn to face Sam.
"Hit me," Grenn whispered. Sam glanced back at Jon who nodded. So, Sam barely stuck Grenn who flew back and yelled as he faked his pain. "Yield! Yield!"
Alliser ignored him as he pushed past Sam and grabbed the chest piece to Jon's armor.
"You think this is funny, do you?"
Jon just stared back at Alliser's glare. After a moment Alliser released him and turned to address everyone in the courtyard.
"When you're out there beyond the wall, with the sun going down, do you want a man at your back? Or a sniveling boy?"
"It doesn't matter."
Alliser turned back to Jon who had spoken. Everyone watched as Jon stepped forward.
"I don't care if it's a man or a boy who's watching my back, as long as they are my brother," Jon spoke as both the Night's Watch and the Dawnguard listened. "I don't know what all of you did to end up here. But let me ask you this: do you want to go on living as what the world has branded you? Or would you rather better ourselves?"
Jon paced as he continued to speak.
"There was once honor in being a part of the Night's Watch. It can be again. But only if you make it so. I may not be part of the Watch, but I am part of the Dawnguard, and we share similar purposes. I will gladly call all of you my brothers, so long you call me yours."
As he finished, Jon turned and left the courtyard. He entered the dining hall and sat down. He was a little surprised at himself for what he did. A moment later, Sam walked in as well.
"That was quite the speech, Jon," Sam said. "Do you think they will listen?"
"I don't know," Jon answered honestly. "I can only hope that they will."
"Well, if it helps, I listened," Sam replied. "Though I imagine plenty won't. Those who already break their vows, for example. I know for a fact that some of the Watch's officers go to that brothel in Mole town."
"I wouldn't doubt it."
"It's easier for the Dawnguard of course. They can have families. Have a home to return to."
"You know, Sam. You haven't committed any crimes. You could leave and go anywhere," Jon pointed out.
"And where would I go? I can't go back home. There's no place that would really accept me."
"How about the Dawnguard?" Jon asked.
Sam stared at Jon is amazement.
"The Dawnguard? T-they wouldn't accept me."
"I'll speak to Isran," Jon countered. "If they accept you, you can help here and choose where you want to take your life afterwards."
"I... I don't know what to say. Other than, I think I'd like that," Sam said. "That would be great. Sorine already treats me nice. She's beautiful too."
Jon stared at Sam with a raised eyebrow and a grin.
"What?" Sam asked. "I'm not saying she and I would... you know. But she is pretty to look at. But don't worry, I won't look at your girl."
"My girl? What are you talking about?" Jon said in confusion.
"Oh come on, Jon. I can tell with the way she looks at you." Sam replied.
"I don't have a girl, Sam. Who are you talking about?"
Sam stared at Jon with a confused face.
"... You mean? But I thought..."
"Who, Sam?" Jon demanded.
"Well... Serana of course."
Jon stared at Sam with an open mouth. He couldn't speak for a moment as the thought of him and Serana having a relationship pervaded his mind.
"Serana? There's nothing going on between us!" Jon insisted. "I don't even know who she is, where she came from, or why she's even here!"
"Would you like to know, Jon Snow?"
Both Jon and Sam jerked around to see Serana casually leaning against the wall. They both stared dumbfounded while Serana just grinned.
"How long have you been there?" Jon shouted at her.
"I'll let you think on that for a while," Serana smirked. "But you still didn't answer my question. Would you like to know?"
Jon did not answer for a moment. Serana pushed herself off the wall and walked towards the door.
"Meet me at the top of the Wall tonight. We can talk without being overheard. I think you're ready to learn some things. Bring Sam with you too."
After Serana left the room, Jon and Sam just exchanged looks.
King's Landing
Arya sat in the tournament stands with her sister and Septa Mordane. The jousting had just begun, and only a few Knights had clashed. Honestly, Arya would rather be practicing her sword lessons, as the jousting was not as entertaining as she had hoped. But she did enjoy the Melee that had taken place earlier. That was where she had also learned that William had gained some new armor.
Flashback
As Arya stood waiting for the Melee to begin, she could not but help stare in amazement as William walked up.
"What kind of armor is that, Will?" she asked.
"Ebony Armor, Arya." William grinned back as he showed it to her. The recently forged armor shown with a black but shiny sheen. On the chest piece was a yellow diamond outlining a black stag, and the helmet also had silver antlers engraved on it: the symbols of house Baratheon. "Ebony is basically a metallic form of obsidian. It's an uncommon metal and to have a suit of armor of it is very rare. I had the Blades Forgemaster, Fultheim, make this for me."
"It looks amazing!" Arya exclaimed before grinning. "It suits you perfectly, Black Prince."
"Thanks, wolf girl."
"Are you going to join the Melee?"
"I'm afraid not. I'll be jousting instead, though I would prefer to join the Melee." William sighed. "It was the only way I could convince my father to not join himself. I told him I'd joust in his stead."
Arya glanced at the field as the competitors waited for the trumpets to start the Melee. She saw that both Vilkas and his brother Farkas were partaking in the Melee. Her eyes then fell on another competitor.
"Hey, Will! That knight there! He's wearing ebony armor too!"
Surprised, William looked at where Arya was pointing. His eyes widened.
"I can't believe it. It's the Ebony Warrior!" William said in shock. The Ebony Warrior easily dwarfed the men around him. He was as tall as Farkas or the Hound. Maybe taller. Along with wearing ebony armor, he also carried a sword and shield that were made of ebony.
"Who's the Ebony Warrior?" Arya asked.
"No one really knows who he is or where he came from." William explained. "He just appeared years ago. He wears no sigil or symbol to indicate where he hails from. Just plain ebony armor."
The trumpets finally sounded and the Melee began. The brutal fighting lasted for around three hours. Thoros of Myr started well thanks to his burning sword, but the Ebony Warrior then charged him without fear of the flames. It quickly became obvious that Thoros relied heavily on his burning sword as he was quickly defeated.
Elsewhere on the field, Vilkas was showing the crowd why he was considered a master two-handed swordsman as he defeated opponents left and right. His brother Farkas began to battle the Ebony Warrior but after a brutal struggle, failed to defeat the ebony clad warrior.
Finally, just Vilkas and the Ebony Warrior remained. The two circled each other for a moment before suddenly charging. William and Arya watched in awe at the battle. They cheered along with the crowd as the two master warriors traded blows back and forth for at least an hour.
Eventually, it was Vilkas who found himself on his back defeated, with the Ebony Warrior standing above him with his sword pointing down at him. After a moment, the Ebony Warrior sheathed his sword and held a hand out to Vilkas to help him up. The crowd cheered as the trumpets sounded the Ebony Warrior's victory.
Flashback End
The jousting began soon after the Melee. Arya cheered William on as he managed to beat two opponents. The only other event that shocked her was the death of the recently knighted Ser Hugh of the Vale at the hands of the Mountain. The Mountain's lance had impaled Ser Hugh's throat. Arya secretly prayed that William would not have to face the Mountain.
William grimaced as he witnessed the death of Ser Hugh. He was certain that the Mountain killed him on purpose. William sighed as he turned to head back to his horse so as to get ready for his next match. Earlier, he was generally surprised that he barely flinched when his first opponent's lance struck him in the chest. He didn't even feel the blow. William was already loving his new armor. He hoped it would help him win more matches thought he came close to losing in points.
William had explained the rules of the joust earlier to Arya. A match was three lances. One point was given for breaking a lance between the waist and the neck. Two points were granted for breaking a lance on the opponent's helmet. This was difficult, since not only was the helmet a smaller target, but many lances would glance off the helmet unbroken. Knocking an opponent of his horse was granted three points.
William did not truly think he would win, as he had yet to face the most dangerous opponents, such as his uncle Jaime or Ser Loras, but he would do his best. Arya had made him promise.
"A fine set of armor, Black Prince."
William turned to see who was addressing him, only for his eyes to widen as he found himself facing the Ebony Warrior. The tall man stared down at William through the slit in his helmet.
"T-thank you. I hope it serves me as good as yours," William replied.
"It will. Very few armors can hope to match up to ebony."
"Congratulation on winning the Melee. Do you plan on joining the joust?" William asked.
"I'm tempted, but jousting is not a true test of a warrior's skill," the Ebony Warrior answered. "I joined the Melee to test my skills. The new Harbinger of the Companions gave me an excellent fight. I have not faced many opponents with his level of ability."
William stared at the Ebony Warrior for a moment.
"Yet, you sound a little... disappointed."
"I suppose I am, a little. Not of Harbinger Vilkas, you see. He was a worthy challenge." The Ebony Warrior's voice sounded mournful. "I had hoped to face more famed knights and warriors. The Mountain, your uncle the Kingslayer, the Hound, Barristan Selmy, perhaps Ser Loras... and Grandmaster Delphine. The apprentice of the former Blades Grandmaster would have been a glorious battle."
William raised an elbow as he realized something.
"You knew Grandmaster Jauffre, didn't you?"
The Ebony Warrior was silent for a moment in memory.
"It was many years ago, when I was young. Even then, I was considered a deadly warrior, but I was arrogant. I was never defeated in battle, so I came to believe I was unbeatable. I wanted to prove my prowess in battle, and who better to prove myself against than the leader of an Order whose skills with the sword are legendary?" The Ebony Warrior looked back down at William. "I traveled to Cloud Ruler and arrogantly challenged Grandmaster Jauffre to a duel. The elderly man just smiled and agreed. After a few moments of fighting him, I expressed my disappointment as I appeared to be winning. Jauffre just smiled again. Then it happened. Two flicks of his blade and my sword and shield went flying away and the tip of Jauffre's Dai-Katana was at my throat. All in the blink of an eye. All I could think was 'his skill is magnificent'. It was my first... and only defeat."
William was entranced as the warrior continued his tale.
"Jauffre then told me that, no matter how good I became with a blade, there would always be someone stronger who would eventually come along. I left Cloud Ruler Temple in a trance. All I could do was contemplate Jauffre's words. I realized that he had humbled me, and I needed to act as a true warrior would, not just some ruffian with a sword. So I have dedicated myself to the path of a warrior and seek out the greatest challenges. I would find and face every worthy adversary until finally I would meet the one who will send me to the glories of Sovngarde. There, I will celebrate my battles with my fellow warriors until I can finally greet the one who had slain me to join us at the table. That is my wish." The Ebony Warrior then glanced at the knights as they watched the current match in the joust. "But, it appears that the Divines have decreed that today is not the day to face these warriors. I believe it is time to return to the road and see where it takes me."
William stared for a moment before speaking.
"I hope you find what you are seeking, Ebony Warrior."
"Thank you, Black Prince. I wish you luck in the joust. I look forward to our meeting in the future," the Ebony Warrior said as he began to turn and walk away.
William blinked in confusion.
"What do you mean?"
"It was my hope to face Jauffre a second time, but the Mad King denied me that chance. You are a part of Jauffre's lineage, since you are learning from his apprentice, Delphine," the Ebony Warrior answered as he glanced back. "You stance, your walk, tells me that you will be a worthy challenge when you are older. I hope we have the chance to duel in the future, Black Prince."
William could do nothing but watch as the Ebony Warrior departed.
Sometime Later...
A tired sigh escaped William's mouth as he sat down in his room. He was not sure how it happened, but tomorrow he would compete in the semi-final tilt of the joust. Perhaps it was the protection provided by his ebony armor, perhaps it was luck, or perhaps it was the Ebony Warrior's encouragement. Whatever the reason, William had persisted in beating all his opponents.
Tomorrow, on his Nameday, the first match would be between Ser Loras and the Mountain. Then, William would face his uncle Jaime for the first semi-final match. The Hound would then face the victor between Loras and the Mountain in the second semi-final match. William doubted he could beat any of them, but he would do his best on his Nameday.
That was when William realized there was someone else in his room.
"I wish you would stop doing that, Caius."
The Blades Spymaster, Caius Cosades, stepped out from the shadow.
"You're getting better at noticing me, my Prince," he said with a small smile.
William just sighed.
"I take it you have something to report?"
"Yes, my Prince. As you have ordered, I've asked our contacts here in the city to look into Jon Arryn's death. Vex from the Thieves Guild has informed me that Eddard Stark is looking into his death as well. She saw Lord Stark talking to Littlefinger as well."
The Thieves Guild were William's city contacts. Despite being uncaught thieves, they were surprisingly honest, and kept any agreements they made, as long as the coin was good. Caius was the one who advised William to employ their services. So far, William had not regretted his decision to do so. It helped that the Thieves Guild owed the Blades, Caius specifically, some gratitude in dealing with their former leader, a man named Mercer Frey.
William was unsure if Mercer Frey was once of House Frey or not. Either way, the former leader of the Thieves guild had betrayed his fellow thieves, and immediately afterwards, Mercer had attempted to sneak in Cloud Ruler Temple and steal the treasures from the secret vault. He probably would have succeeded if Caius was not in the Temple at the time. Caius had detected Mercer and sounded the alarm as two members of the Thieves Guild, Brynjolf and Karliah, arrived after tracking Mercer down. As dangerous as Mercer was, it was not long until he died at the hands of both the Blades and the Thieves Guild. This had helped to seal relations between the Blades and the Thieves.
William's eyes narrowed at hearing Caius's words.
"Try to keep an eye on Baelish. He can't be trusted. What else is there?"
"Did you notice how Jon Arryn's squire, now Ser Hugh, was knighted immediately after his master's death? Then, he somehow got the money for a full set of armor. And now, he conveniently dies in this tournament. Quite the number of coincidences."
William blinked as he realized where Caius was going with this.
"You think Hugh poisoned his own Lord? Even if that's true, he's dead now. We can't pry any information out of him."
"It does provide us with a lead. Jon Arryn is from the Vale. Hugh was from the Vale. I have a hunch that our best bet is to send some agents down this trail. Though, it could take some time," Caius reasoned.
William thought about this. He could not think of anyone in the Vale who would hate Jon Arryn enough to poison him. But there weren't many options.
"Go ahead and contact our agents in the Vale, Caius. Do what needs to be done and continue the investigation here in King's Landing as well."
"As you wish, my Prince. I shall do so immediately." Caius bowed as he left the room.
William thought over Jon Arryn's death for a moment. He wondered if anything could be found in the Vale. He finally pushed these thoughts away and left to join Arya for the evening sword lessons.
William did not know that Arya was actually somewhere else.
"Your Grace," Arya said as she gave a clumsy curtesy. "You asked for me?"
"Indeed, my dear," Cersei answered. "There's no need to be so formal. Please come sit."
Arya did so, but wished she was anywhere else but here. She did not want to be alone with the Queen, not after what happened on the Kingsroad. She could not help but be nervous at why William's mother had asked for her.
Cersei calmly sipped some tea before speaking.
"I was hoping we could get the chance to talk. I wanted to apologize for that foul business on the road."
"There's no need, my Queen. I-I wasn't exactly being very proper then." Arya said with hesitation.
"I'm hoping we can put it all aside. You are to be my future daughter-in-law after all," Cersei spoke. "You were good friends with William in the North, correct?"
"Yes, my Queen."
"But never more than that, I'm told," Cersei stated. "That's too bad. I imagine it would help with marring my son."
Arya didn't answer. Cersei then lifted some embroidery from the table.
"Your sister made this for me. Do you like to knit, my dear?"
"N-not very much, your Grace," Arya nervously answered. She knew that she wasn't making a very good impression for the queen. "I'm afraid I'm not that good at knitting."
"That's too bad. Some highborn girls knit such beautiful things," Cersei said before she suddenly clasped a hand around Arya's and examined it closely. "We just have to make do. Whether we have delicate hands or... blacksmiths hands."
Arya jerked back her hand in shock. How did... there's no way she could know Septa Mordane said that... right?
"You look like your aunt Lyanna, too," Cersei suddenly said. "She always acted different. So odd and so silly. Hopefully you don't end up like her, but then again everyone says you're a lot like her."
Arya suddenly stood up.
"My aunt was NOT odd or silly. And neither am I."
"Careful, your talking to your Queen," Cersei said in a darker tone. "You emotions show rather easy. You ought to learn to control them better."
"I rather be honest than hid behind false words," Arya replied in defiance.
"Really? You want the truth then? Even if it causes you pain? Alright then, here's the truth," Cersei said as she suddenly stood in front of Arya. "I don't like you. I cannot fathom why any of the gods would curse my son by forcing him to marry you."
Cersei took a step forward, forcing Arya to step back.
"MY William has done many things for the Kingdoms. He built the Royal Army and won a great battle. He is a hero in the eyes of the commoners. What have you done that give you the right to marry my son? Nothing!"
Cersei took another step.
"But you don't care, do you? You're probably just using him in hopes of gaining power and prestige."
"That's not true!" Arya shouted in denial. "Will is my friend and-"
"Your friend? So you admit you don't any feelings for him?"
"What?! N-no I-"
"You think William wants to marry you? Don't delude yourself. He doesn't have any feeling for a horseface girl like you." Cersei said with a cruel smirk.
Arya stepped back as if she was physically struck. She felt tears forming in her eyes.
"T-that's not true!"
"You wanted the truth and I'm telling you the truth. William is just doing the duty that's expected of him by marring you. But he would not choose you if he had the choice." Cersei suddenly grabbed Arya's chin with her hand and leaned close. "You don't belong here. You don't belong with MY son. MY William. MY noble Black Prince. If you know what's best for you, then you will leave!"
Arya jerked back as the tears fell from her eyes. She began to back up toward the door. Cersei folded her arms as she watched her.
"Stay away from my son and go back to the savage north where you belong. Go ahead and become some swordswoman with no appeal. I encourage it. You will just live a poor, pathetic life and die alone and unloved. As a wretched little girl like you deserves."
Arya couldn't take anymore and ran from the room with her tears flowing. She could feel the queen's cruel smirk on her back and in her mind the whole way.
Chapter End
Author's Note & NEW POLL: Wow, I laid a lot onto you all with this chapter, didn't I? Special Thanks to Ranshaj for suggesting the idea about adding the Ebony Warrior. While I did not do what you suggested could be done, I hope you like what I did.
Q&As
Lt. Cmdr. Radner: You can somewhat guess what each chapter may cover base of the episodes on the show. But I may not always follow that as some stories will eventually diverge. I won't answer which character will live but I will say that I recently got a great ideal about Benjen. But it will be awhile before you find out what that is.
ww1990ww: I hope this scene satisfies you for now about the Daedra.
Sheogorath: It certainly does!
That good, I...wait, what! Who said that! Hello...I suddenly have a very bad feeling. Well, anyways while I do have some ideas about the Daedra I'm not sure when they will appear. We will just have to wait and see.
Vasun05: The Blades are William's elite but only number around fifty. We will see what other characters think about will when they are introduced in the story.
Ikki34: Fan theory about Syrio and Jaqen being the same person? Haven't hear that one yet. I can see why considering that it was never confirmed that Syrio died but I personally don't agree with the theory. Either way, they will be separate people in this story. One theory I do agree with is R+L=J
The Thieves Guild is actually the faction I've had the least amount of interaction with. I have completed the Skyrim quest line once but not in oblivion so the Grey Fox probably won't appear, sorry.
I am very happy that you like my story so much. Thank You! I hope I can continue to satisfy.
Mashot Tito: I think the Jon/Serana paring is now official. But I probably won't have Jon become a vampire. I don't think it's something he would choose.
DoctorEagle: The White Walkers are here thought I'm not entirely sure what all I'll do with them since there still shrouded in a lot of mystery.
TetrisLame: I was disappointed myself when I learned of what they did in the show. It would have been better if they stuck closer to the books. But what I have plan may shock a lot of people when we get that far in the story. NO spoilers, sorry.
Ranshaj: Again, thank you for reminding me about the Ebony Warrior. I hope you like what I decided to do with him. I myself have yet to get a character high enough level to face the Ebony Warrior :( we'll see when he'll appear next.
Lone Gundam: You make some very good point about how so much points to William being a dragonborn. If he does end up being dragonborn, it won't be reviled until much, MUCH later in the story. As for Alduin, I will neither confirm nor deny his existence in the story at this time. After all, dream could mean a great many things.
Remember everyone! Vote for the Poll at the Top of MY Profile. I will close the Poll when I post the next chapter and reveal the results then. See you next time!
