The Rise Of A Dynasty
Casterly Rock – 302 A.C
One moon later…
Casterly Rock was the pride of the Westerlands and was virtually impregnable.
The huge castle sat on the cliff edge with thick fifty foot high walls manned with archers, crossbowmen and thick iron gates which no battering ram could pierce.
The main keep of Casterly Rock could be seen far behind the walls surrounded by several barracks, stables and forges. At the base of the cliff they could see the large bustling city of Lannisport with over fifty Lannister longships anchored in the port.
Wherever the army of the Westerlands was it was not here as no army awaited them outside the walls of Casterly Rock.
Ned rode towards Edric Baratheon who was riding in front of their infantry in the middle of their army as they approached the stronghold of House Lannister.
As usual Barristan Selmy and Robar Royce were riding besides him.
As planned they had brought the entirety of their roughly 64,000 strong army with them which had been boosted by the support of a few minor Riverlands Houses who pledged their support instead of dying.
"Shoot down every raven, set up the siege with defences and Guards on all sides" said Edric Baratheon.
Ned nodded and rode away from him.
Later that night…
Beric was stood in the entrance to his tent with his arms folded as he looked out at the sight of Casterly Rock.
He felt arms encircle his waist and Talisa pressing a kiss into his shoulder.
"Will we be living in a castle like that?" said Talisa softly as she pressed kisses to his neck and shoulder.
Beric sighed.
"Not as big as that no" said Beric.
Talisa moved around to his side.
"Then why not claim the castle when we take it… if we manage to take it, imagine what our children will do with a castle like that" said Talisa softly.
"Not that one… even if the King were to give me Casterly Rock I would not want it, I would pull the damn thing down stone by stone until there is nothing left" said Beric harshly.
Talisa sighed.
"Are you coming to bed?" said Talisa kissing his neck.
Beric nodded and wrapped his arms around her and kissing her as he turned to face her.
He slowly removed her dress as they moved back towards the bed.
Once her smallclothes were gone Talisa kissed him before kneeling down and undoing the laces on his breeches.
(Smut begins)
Beric sighed and groaned as he felt the warm wetness of Talisa's mouth envelop his manhood.
"You know we cannot hide the fact that you are with child from my Father for much longer, we will have to tell him" said Beric.
Talisa was nearly three moons along with her pregnancy and it was becoming much harder to hide that fact from Ned.
Talisa looked up at him before removing his manhood from her mouth.
"And then he will send me away… back to Winterfell, away from you" said Talisa.
Beric sighed.
"And away from this" said Talisa in a sultry voice as she gripped his manhood in one hand causing him to groan.
"I will miss your warmth in my bed… but you will be safer at Winterfell than you will here, and you will meet my Mother, my Cousin and Jon's Wife" said Beric as she took him into her mouth once again.
This time she did not release him from her mouth as his hands found their way to the back of her head guiding her head up and down his manhood.
Once he finished in her mouth he pulled her to her feet and picked her up causing her to laugh and kiss him.
He carried her over to their bed and gently laid her down before lying down next to her and kissing her.
(Smut ends)
The next day…
"Travel safely" said Beric softly before giving Talisa a kiss.
He was stood in the courtyard with Talisa and Ned who were stood near the small wagon and riders including Maege and Alysanne Mormont, Martyn Glover and Rodrik Forrester who were already on their horses waiting to leave along with two dozen Stark Soldiers.
Talisa smiled.
"I will" said Talisa.
Beric smiled and helped Talisa up into the wagon which she had opted to ride in instead of on a horse due to her pregnancy.
"I will see you at Kings Landing… when it is all over" said Beric.
"Yes you will" said Talisa in a mock stern voice.
"I love you" said Beric confidently.
Talisa smirked.
"And I love you" said Talisa.
Beric smiled.
"Will you give my Daughter a message for me… and this?" said Beric.
He handed a small wooden figurine of a dancing lady in a dress to Talisa who managed a small smile at it.
"Tell her that her Father loves her… and that he will come back to her soon" said Beric.
Talisa placed the wooden toy in one of the boxes.
"I will" said Talisa softly.
Beric stepped away from the wagon allowing them to leave.
Once they were away Ned placed his hand on Beric's shoulder.
"There is no place for her here Son, even if she is a healer" said Ned solemnly.
Beric nodded and let Ned guide him back towards the camp.
Three days later…
"This is your last chance Lord Tywin… yield the castle or your Son's head will be catapulted into Casterly Rock!" shouted Lyonel Corbray.
The Vale Lord was standing next to Jamie Lannister on a makeshift gallows.
Jamie Lannister was dressed in a muddy tunic and breeches with his arms and legs tied together and a tight noose around his neck.
Jon, Robb, Rickard Karstark and Roose Bolton were also stood on the gallows with their hands on the pommels of their swords.
Lord Tywin Lannister was stood on the battlements with his men looking down at them with a neutral look on his face.
"What is more important Lord Tywin… your Son's life, or your castle?" shouted Jon.
Tywin Lannister simply fixed him with a cold stare.
Jon sighed and turned to Robb.
"Take him back to his cell" said Jon.
Robb nodded and removed Jamie Lannister's noose before he and Rickard Karstark dragged him away.
"You have until the sun comes up tomorrow to yield your castle Lord Tywin… or your Son will find himself without a head" shouted Lyonel Corbray.
Jon and the others walked off the gallows and back towards the command tent.
Later that night…
"There is no way into that castle, their gates are too thick and the walls too well manned… our best bet would be to fall back and focus on the Tullys" said Randyll Tarly.
Ned scowled from his place on the War Council.
The other members of the War Council were Edric Baratheon, Barristan Selmy, Yohn Royce, Selwyn Tarth, Andar Royce, Baelor Hightower, Rickard Karstark, Roose Bolton and Greatjon Umber.
"We cannot retreat… the Lannisters would be on our back" said Ned bitterly.
"And what do you suggest we do Lord Stark, sacrifice our men in a suicidal attack?" said Randyll Tarly.
"You Southerners are all the same… the Kings Of Winter threw back armies twice our size, we can take Casterly Rock" said Greatjon Umber.
"And your last King knelt to Aegon who had an army twice his size, so much for your Northern valor" said Randyll Tarly.
"Enough My Lords… arguing about events long passed will not help us" said Edric Baratheon.
Ned sighed and bowed his head to Edric Baratheon.
"Lord Stark is Hand Of The King Lord Tarly, you are the commander of my armies and my Master Of War… you do not speak to him like that" said Edric Baratheon sternly.
Randyll Tarly gritted his teeth and nodded.
"Apologies Your Grace" said Randyll Tarly.
Edric Baratheon nodded.
As he was about to reply Rodrik Royce made his way into the tent and knelt down on one knee.
"Your Grace… our Guards have captured someone trying to sneak into the camp" said Rodrik Royce.
Edric Baratheon nodded.
"Have them brought here at once" said Edric Baratheon.
Rodrik Royce bowed his head and left the tent.
Edric Baratheon and the others were a little stunned when they saw who their new prisoner was.
Winterfell – 302 A.C
Three days later…
Visenya scrunched up her face and screamed in pain as a the cries of a baby broke out around her chambers.
She was lying in her bed surrounded by the Wet Nurses, Maester Lewin and Ashara as she gave birth.
"Its a boy My Queen… red cheeked and healthy" said Maester Lewin as one of the Wet Nurses cleaned her Son with a cloth.
Visenya managed a weak smile before motioning for her Son to be handed to her with her hands.
Maester Lewin cut the umbilical cord with a small knife before nodding to the Wet Nurse who placed Visenya's Son in her arms.
He looked up at her with his bright blue eyes. He looked just like a Baratheon with those eyes and his traces of black hair.
Visenya smiled.
"Orys… Prince Orys Baratheon, first of his name, Heir to the Iron Throne" said Visenya softly.
Ashara sat down on the bed and nodded to the Wet Nurses.
They bowed their heads to her before walking out of the chambers.
Ashara sat there watching her in silence for a few moments before Margaery, Rhaenys and Daenerys walked through the door.
The three made their way over to the bed where Visenya showed Orys Baratheon to them.
"Prince Orys Baratheon" said Visenya.
Rhaenys looked at her curiously.
"Orys Baratheon… who was the first Hand Of The King, to Aegon The Conqueror himself" said Rhaenys curiously.
Visenya nodded.
"I like the name" said Visenya.
Daenerys nodded.
"It is a good name" said Daenerys.
Ashara smiled and stroked her arm.
"A name fit for a King" said Ashara.
They stayed in Visenya's chambers for the next half hour before leaving to allow Visenya to rest.
Casterly Rock – 302 A.C
One week later…
Stannis Baratheon brought his army to a halt outside the gates of Casterly Rock which was scarcely manned with archers.
What remained of his army following his failed attack on Kings Landing only numbered around 18,000 men with as little as 4,000 on horseback.
The campsite where the Northerners had been was completely abandoned.
"Search the tents… if you find anyone bring them before me" said Stannis Baratheon.
As one of the Soldiers was about to reply the gates started to open.
Stannis Baratheon unsheathed his sword causing all of the others to do the same.
Once the gates were fully opened they saw Tyrion Lannister stood facing them with a neutral look on his face. He had three House Lannister Guards at his side.
The famous Imp of Casterly Rock stood at 4'5 tall with short, neat golden brown hair and a neat matching beard. He was around 32 years of age dressed in a red House Lannister tunic and black breeches.
Stannis Baratheon rode through the gates followed by Lord Eldon Estermont, Lord Alester Florent of Brightwater Keep and two dozen mounted Guards.
"Your Grace… welcome to Casterly Rock" said Tyrion Lannister.
Stannis Baratheon looked at Tyrion Lannister curiously.
"Where is Lord Tywin?" said Stannis Baratheon gruffly.
"He awaits you in the main hall… he sent me here to greet you" said Tyrion Lannister.
He nodded to the Guards behind Stannis Baratheon who started to shut the gates.
"What is the meaning of this?" shouted Alester Florent.
"Open those gates right now" said Stannis Baratheon advancing towards him with his sword pointed at Tyrion Lannister causing the Lannister Guards to draw their own swords.
Tyrion Lannister sighed.
"What have you done Imp?" said Stannis Baratheon bitterly.
"He had a choice to make… and he made it Uncle" said a voice that was all too familiar to Stannis Baratheon.
Stannis Baratheon glared at Edric Baratheon as he walked into the courtyard with Ned, Barristan Selmy, Robar Royce and Gendry at his side.
The false King and his men readied their swords as nearly 50 Northern Soldiers rushed into the courtyard with their weapons drawn.
Tyrion Lannister sighed as the three Lannister Guards removed their helms revealing themselves to be Jon, Robb and Beric.
"I had a choice to make… watch my family die or let them be spared with surrender" said Tyrion Lannister flatly.
"You betrayed your Family and your King" said Stannis Baratheon bitterly.
"Lay down your arms Lord Stannis, renounce your claim to the Iron Throne and declare yourself for the rightful King Edric Baratheon… no blood need be spilled here My Lord" said Ned.
Stannis Baratheon looked around the courtyard and then at his Men who nodded to him.
"Send my body back to Storms End if I fall here" said Stannis Baratheon flatly.
Edric Baratheon nodded his head as he unsheathed his sword.
"So be it" said Edric Baratheon as Ned and the others unsheathed their swords.
Stannis Baratheon nodded and charged at Edric Baratheon causing Barristan Selmy to quickly intercept his sword.
As Jon impaled one of the Baratheon Guards through the stomach they heard shouts from outside the castle walls as the Baratheon Soldiers were ambushed and rode down by their cavalry.
After several minutes of fighting it was only Stannis Baratheon who remained fighting against Barristan Selmy.
Ned pulled his greatsword out of Alester Florent causing him to drop to the floor before turning back to Stannis Baratheon.
After another minute of fighting Stannis Baratheon was disarmed by Barristan Selmy who stepped back.
"It is over Uncle" said Edric Baratheon with a sigh.
Stannis Baratheon glared at him as the shouts from behind the castle walls slowly faded to silence.
"If you want to be a King, you must deal with all threats yourself… or are you a coward?" said Stannis Baratheon.
Edric Baratheon straightened up before turning to Barristan Selmy and Jon.
The two nodded and moved over to Stannis Baratheon forcing him down onto his knees into the beheading position.
Edric Baratheon moved to Stannis Baratheon's side and looked down at him as he readied his sword.
"Do you have any last words My Lord?" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
"Do your duty" said Stannis Baratheon flatly as he kept his head in position.
Edric Baratheon nodded and placed his sword on the back of Stannis Baratheon's neck.
"Lord Stannis Baratheon… I, Edric, of the House Baratheon, the first of my name, rightful King of the Andals, the Rhoyner and the First Men, Lord Of The Seven Kingdoms, and Protector of the Realm, sentence you to die for your treason against House Baratheon" said Edric Baratheon confidently.
He paused for several moments before raising the sword up and beheading his Uncle in one clean swoop.
Jon and Barristan Selmy dropped Stannis Baratheon's body to the floor.
Edric Baratheon turned to Tyrion Lannister who had a defeated look on his face.
"Lord Stark… escort Lord Tyrion to his cell, and keep him there until his ship leaves on the morrow" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
Ned nodded and walked over to Tyrion Lannister as Robb grabbed hold of his tunic.
Tyrion Lannister fought against Robb slightly.
"And what of my Brother Your Grace?" said Tyrion Lannister quickly.
Edric Baratheon straightened up.
"Our agreement still stands My Lord… I will let him go to the Wall if he chooses, or he will be executed, so I hope you managed to talk some sense into him" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
He left the courtyard followed by Barristan Selmy and Robar Royce as Ned and Robb led Tyrion Lannister back towards the main keep.
Later that afternoon…
Ned was sat at the desk in Tywin Lannister's Solar with his greatsword resting against the desk as he wrote on a scroll.
The roll of parchment contained the demands of surrender which was to be delivered to Storms End with Stannis Baratheon's body.
He finished writing the scroll and rolled it up before sealing it with his sigil as he thought back to how they managed to take Casterly Rock.
The night they had captured Tyrion Lannister he had offered to let them into Casterly Rock through a secret entrance located in a cave deep below the castle.
In exchange he only asked that his Brother Jamie Lannister be spared along with his family residing at Casterly Rock in exchange for his help.
After many hours of discussion Edric Baratheon accepted the slightly altered terms to spare anyone who surrendered with the exception of Tywin Lannister who they had planned to give to the Martell's after the war had finished as a way of ensuring peace from Dorne.
Ned had sent Jon and some of the others with 100 men to enter Casterly Rock through the secret passageway and eliminate the Guards before opening the gates to let their army into Casterly Rock.
Ten nights earlier…
Ned led their infantry through the various courtyards of Casterly Rock dispatching any Lannister Soldiers in their way as they moved towards the main keep.
As they approached the big heavy wooden doors leading into the main keep the doors started to open.
As the doors opened a large Lannister army rushed out to meet them led by Gregor Clegane and Lancel Lannister.
Arthur set his sights firmly on the Mountain and moved towards him.
Unfortunately he was not the only one as Rickard Karstark and Horton Redfort got there first only to be brutally cut down by The Mountain.
"This is for you Elia" whispered Arthur as he readied Dawn.
He moved behind The Mountain and slashed at the back of his knees causing him to drop to his knees momentarily.
Arthur moved around to the front of him and chopped his sword hand off with great precision.
The Mountain howled in pain as Arthur knocked his helm off with Dawn.
"Elia Martell, you murdered her Son, you raped and murdered her… now you will burn in the deepest of the Seven Hells" growled Arthur.
The Mountain growled and locked eyes with him.
"The Dornish Whore got what she deserved" growled the Mountain.
Arthur roared and swung Dawn at the Mountain's throat decapitating him.
Arthur turned and attacked Kevan Lannister as the Mountain's head rolled across the courtyard.
Ned and Greatjon Umber led their men into the main keep cutting down any Lannister Soldiers they could find as they made their way towards the great hall where Tywin Lannister was sure to be waiting for them.
"Remember Men… we want Lord Tywin alive" shouted Ned.
They pushed through another set of large doors into the great hall but found it empty.
"Search the castle, find all of the Lannister's and bring them here" said Ned.
They had found several Lannister's hiding in their chambers including Tywin Lannister, his younger Sister Geanna Lannister, his Nephew's Willem and Martyn Lannister along with Kevan Lannister's Wife Dorna Swyft.
As of this moment all of them were in the cells of Casterly Rock under guard waiting for their fate to be decided by the King.
After a few minutes there was a knock at the door.
"Yes" said Ned.
The door opened and Arthur and Lyanna led a weary and dishevelled Jamie Lannister into the Solar.
He was dressed in a golden tunic and breeches which were caked with mud and dust with a thick rope tied around his arms and midriff.
Arthur and Lyanna forced Jamie Lannister into the chair opposite Ned.
"His Grace will be along shortly" said Arthur.
Ned nodded and looked at Jamie Lannister who would not look at him.
"I hope you made your choice Kingslayer" said Ned sternly.
Jamie Lannister did not reply as they awaited the arrival of Edric Baratheon.
The King arrived nearly ten minutes later in the company of Barristan Selmy and Robar Royce.
Edric Baratheon locked eyes with Jamie Lannister as Robar Royce shut the door to the Solar.
"The last time we spoke Ser Jamie, I gave you a choice, take the black or die… have you made your choice?" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
Jamie Lannister looked up at him.
"I have" said Jamie Lannister flatly.
Edric Baratheon stiffly nodded.
"And what choice have you made?" said Edric Baratheon.
Jamie Lannister straightened up.
"I would have you put a sword in my hand and let me fight for my freedom, or I will die like a man" said Jamie Lannister bitterly.
"I do not recall you being given that option Kingslayer" said Ned sternly.
Jamie Lannister sharply turned to face him.
"Are you scared to face me Stark, at least your Son had the balls to fight me, even if he did not kill me" said Jamie Lannister snidely.
Ned leaned back in his seat before his eyes went wide as another voice spoke up.
"Done… you can fight me if you want your freedom"
Ned and the others turned to Lyanna who was looking at Jamie Lannister with a steely look on her face.
Jamie Lannister chuckled.
"A bloody woman is the bravest you can find, you should be ashamed Ser Arthur" said Jamie Lannister mockingly.
Lyanna walked over to Jamie Lannister towering over him slightly.
"Twenty years ago… you sat on the Iron Throne and did nothing as my Sister Wife and her Son were butchered by Gregor Clegane, and for twenty years you have avoided the Gods justice, now you will face it" said Lyanna frostily.
"Gregor Clegane is dead" said Jamie Lannister flatly.
Arthur straightened up.
"I know… I cut his head off with Dawn" said Arthur flatly.
"Is Elia Martell not avenged, now that her killer is dead?" said Jamie Lannister flatly.
"Not while the man who refused to protect them still lives" said Arthur bitterly.
Jamie Lannister sighed and looked down at the floor in slight shame.
"You know I did not harm them Ser Arthur, nor did I want any harm to come to them" said Jamie Lannister flatly.
"What is the greater crime Ser Jamie… to butcher a woman and her son, or to stand by and do nothing as it happens?" said Barristan Selmy in a disappointed voice.
Jamie Lannister sighed.
"Get me a sword… and get your vengeance My Lady" said Jamie Lannister bitterly.
Lyanna nodded and Arthur pulled Jamie Lannister to his feet.
One hour later…
Lyanna gripped her sword tightly and lowered the visor on her helm.
She had changed into her armour and was holding her sword and shield in a defensive stance.
Arthur was stood next to her with one hand on Dawn while Ned and Greatjon Umber were stood either side of Jamie Lannister opposite her.
Jon, Robb, Lyra, Theon, Beric and Arya were stood to the side with Edric Baratheon and Barristan Selmy.
Lyanna stepped away from Arthur and pointed her sword at Jamie Lannister who was dressed in a brand new red tunic and breeches having decided against using armour.
He gripped his longsword in both hands and swung it hard towards her.
Lyanna quickly stepped to the side and caught the strike with her shield before returning a slash of her own which Jamie Lannister parried.
The two traded blows for the next few minutes with Lyanna eventually losing her shield as she was pushed back.
Arthur gripped the handle of Dawn tightly as he watched his Wife get forced back by Jamie Lannister.
Lyanna grunted before she used all of her strength to knock Jamie Lannister's sword to the side before launching herself at him.
As the two crashed to the floor Lyanna pulled her dagger out of its sheath and plunged it into Jamie Lannister's chest.
Jamie Lannister's eyes went wide with shock before he went limp.
Lyanna was breathing heavily for several moments before Arthur pulled her off of Jamie Lannister's now dead body.
"Its done, she can be at peace now" said Lyanna breathing heavily.
Arthur held her close before leading her away from the scene in front of him.
Edric Baratheon motioned for two Soldiers to remove Jamie Lannister's body before turning to Ned.
"Have the rest of the prisoners brought here" said Edric Baratheon.
Ned sighed and walked back into the main keep followed by his children.
Half an hour later…
Edric Baratheon was walking back and forth in a straight line in front of the prisoners who were on their knees with Soldiers stood behind them.
Geanna Lannister was 56 years of age standing at 5'6 tall. She had a curvy figure with long blonde hair that was starting to go grey.
Dorna Lannister nee Swyft was 55 years of age standing at 5'7 with medium length brown hair and a slim figure.
Her eldest surviving Son Martyn Lannister was 16 years old with short blonde hair and stood at 5'11 tall.
Her second surviving Son Willam Lannister was 14 years old and looked nearly identical to his Brother with short blonde hair but was shorter at 5'8 tall.
Ned, Barristan Selmy, Selwyn Tarth, Robar Royce, Randyll Tarly and Baelor Hightower were also stood in the courtyard with them.
Edric Baratheon stopped pacing and straightened up.
"Each of you has a choice to make, surrender and name me your rightful King, and I will be fair and merciful… or die" said Edric Baratheon confidently.
"You are no King of mine" growled Martyn Lannister.
"Keep quiet" hissed Dorna Lannister.
"Listen to Mother Martyn" pleaded Willam Lannister.
Edric Baratheon sighed and knelt down in front of Martyn Lannister.
"Stannis is dead, who is your King now?" said Edric Baratheon.
Martyn Lannister spat at his feet.
"His Son Steffon Baratheon is the one true King, not a bastard who wants to steal the throne" spat Martyn Lannister.
Edric Baratheon sighed.
"Is this your choice?" said Edric Baratheon with a hint of regret.
"Yes" said Martyn Lannister bitterly.
"Martyn, do not do this, please" pleaded Dorna Lannister.
"They will execute you unless you change your mind" said Geanna Lannister glancing at the others in the courtyard.
"I would advise you to listen to them Lad, they only want you to be safe" said Edric Baratheon with a hint of remorse.
"No… I will not bend the knee to you, so you will have to kill me" said Martyn Lannister.
Edric Baratheon sighed and nodded to Barristan Selmy who walked over to the Lannister Boy.
"Take the Boy out of sight Ser Barristan, it would not be right to execute him in front of his Mother" said Ned.
Barristan Selmy looked at him and then back at Edric Baratheon.
Edric Baratheon sighed and nodded.
"Take him out of sight Ser Barristan… and take the others back to their cells" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
Barristan Selmy nodded and led Martyn Lannister away from the others as Dorna Lannister cried out to her Son.
"I am sorry it had to come to this My Lady" said Ned solemnly.
He moved to follow Barristan Selmy unsheathing his sword in the process.
As Ned rounded the corner he saw Martyn Lannister on his knees with Barristan Selmy next to him.
Ned stopped next to Martyn Lannister and assumed the beheading position.
"Martyn Lannister, in the name of Edric of the House Baratheon, King of the Andals, the Rhoyner and the First Men, Lord of the Seven Kingdoms, and Protector of the Realm, you are sentenced to die, do you have any last words?" said Ned solemnly.
Martyn Lannister looked up at him.
"Long live King Steffon" said Martyn Lannister proudly.
Ned sighed and beheaded the Lannister Boy.
Two days later…
"How much gold is there?" said Ned.
Ned, Robb and Lyra were in the courtyard of Casterly Rock as the latter two were preparing to leave with the large convoy escorting all of the plundered gold back to Moat Cailin.
Ned was stood by a covered wagon which was being loaded up with crates of gold bars and bags of Gold Dragons.
Robb turned to him.
"At least eight million in Gold Dragons, and perhaps another million in the gold bars" said Robb as he shut the doors on the wagon.
They had spent the last two days emptying the coffers of Casterly Rock and the last gold mine below it for all of the gold they could get.
Ned nodded.
"I want as many men as you can get on those ships, you will be sailing past the Iron Islands and the Riverlands before you reach The Saltspear Tower" said Ned looking past the wagon where three more wagons were in front of it waiting to leave.
"I will make sure it gets there myself Father" said Robb dutifully.
"Look after yourself Son" said Ned solemnly.
Robb bowed his head.
"Of course I will Father" said Robb.
Lyra walked towards them.
"We should leave now, while the seas are calm" said Lyra.
Robb nodded.
"Tell Lord Karstark that we are ready to leave" said Robb flatly.
Lyra nodded and walked away from him towards the front of the convoy.
Robb looked around the courtyard.
"What will you do now?" said Robb.
Ned sighed.
"Put this damn castle to the torch… then we will return to Harranhal to plan our final assault on Kings Landing" said Ned.
"How long until you are expected to arrive at Harranhal?" said Robb.
"Two weeks at the most, and I daresay we will probably run into another Crown army on the way" said Ned solemnly.
"So we should ride for Harranhal once the gold arrives at Moat Cailin?" said Robb.
"At once if you can, with any men you can gather… we will need every able bodied man at Harranhal before we march on Kings Landing" said Ned.
Robb nodded.
He saw Harrion Karstark who after the death of his Father was now Lord of Karhold walking towards him with a neutral look on his face.
Ned swiftly wrapped Robb in a hug.
Winterfell – 302 A.C
Eight weeks later…
"And exactly who are we meant to be expecting?" said Daenerys flatly as she walked into the courtyard holding onto the hand of Leyla Snow.
Leyla Snow was now 3 years old with long sandy brown hair down past her shoulders.
She was clutching the wooden Direwolf toy that Beric had made for her in one hand while Daenerys was holding onto her other hand.
Ashara, Margaery, Visenya and Rhaenys were walking alongside Daenerys.
"It appears that we are welcoming another Lady Stark" said Rhaenys dryly.
Ashara sighed.
She was less than pleased when she received Ned's raven about how Beric had broken his betrothal to Myrcella Baratheon and married a foreign healer on the Isle Of Faces.
They stood in the courtyard waiting as Maege Mormont led a small convoy through the gates before coming to a halt in front of the Starks and the others.
Ashara straightened up as she watched her new Good Daughter climb down from the wagon aided by Martyn Glover.
Talisa was now five moons pregnant and it was beginning to show on her clothes with a small baby bump pressing against the dress.
Talisa looked in her direction and hesitated for a few moments before slowly walking towards Ashara.
Talisa stopped in front of her and curtsied to her.
"Lady Stark, you look more beautiful than your Son has described you" said Talisa warmly.
Ashara smiled and took Talisa's hands in hers.
"Welcome to Winterfell Lady Talisa" said Ashara softly.
Talisa smiled and turned to look at Leyla who was looking up at her curiously.
She moved over to her Husband's Daughter and knelt down in front of her.
"Hello" said Talisa softly.
Leyla Snow stepped away from her slightly with a slightly scared look on her face.
Talisa held the wooden dancing lady toy towards her.
"Your Father made this for you… he told me to tell you that he loves you and that he will see you soon" said Talisa softly.
Leila let go of Daenerys's hand and slowly took the toy from Talisa.
Talisa smiled and stood up as Maege Mormont and the others greeted Ashara.
Talisa stood up before turning to Daenerys and introducing herself.
After Talisa had finished introducing herself to Rhaenys and Lyarra, Ashara approached her.
"We can talk in the Lord's Solar" said Ashara.
Talisa nodded and allowed Ashara to lead her into the castle.
Ten minutes later…
Ashara poured herself a cup of Arbor Gold for herself before taking a sip.
She was sat at the desk with a slightly nervous looking Talisa sat opposite her.
"So… you and my Son?" said Ashara sternly.
Talisa swallowed slightly.
"What about us?" said Talisa nervously.
Ashara sipped her wine.
"You are aware that he was promised to another, yet here you sit as his Wife" said Ashara sternly.
"I was aware that he was promised to another yes" said Talisa.
Ashara locked eyes with her.
"And what… you still went ahead and married him?" said Ashara sternly.
Talisa sighed.
"We love each other, we both knew what our marriage would mean for his former intended, and we still married each other anyway" said Talisa flatly.
"You make it sound so simple" said Ashara.
"I bear the girl no ill will, but he would have been miserable with her, I make him happy, and he makes me happy" said Talisa proudly.
"And how did His Grace react to what the two of you did?" said Ashara sternly.
Talisa sighed.
"He was less than pleased when he found out that we were wed" said Talisa flatly.
Ashara nodded.
"And what about my Granddaughter… his Daughter?" said Ashara flatly.
"He asked me if was willing to be a Mother to her, as well as the child I am carrying right now" said Talisa proudly as she traced her hand over her stomach.
"And?" said Ashara raising her eyebrow.
"I told him I would be happy to be a Mother to her, that I would treat her like she was my own" said Talisa.
Ashara paused for several moments before managing a small smile.
"My Husband tells me you came from Volantis, but he neglected to tell me your family name" said Ashara.
Talisa straightened up.
"Maegyr" said Talisa.
Ashara nodded.
"One of the ruling families of Volantis, it would seem there is more to you than meets the eye Lady Talisa… though I trust you know Westerosi laws on slavery?" said Ashara.
"That was one of the reasons why I came to Westeros… not everyone in Volantis agrees with the practices that go on there, myself included" said Talisa flatly.
Ashara smiled.
"What did my Son tell you about the kind of future the two of you will have?" said Ashara.
"Only that we will be living in a keep on the shore of the Bite" said Talisa.
"And what do you make of that?" said Ashara testily.
"Truthfully I had hoped that we would have a larger castle than that, but that is not what he wants, the small keep we would be living in would be our home, so I can accept it" said Talisa.
Ashara shook her head and sipped her wine.
"You and my Son will take up residence in The Saltspear Tower, you will rule as its Lord and Lady, and defend our shores from raiders" said Ashara sternly.
Talisa paused for a few moments before smiling.
"That is more than we could have asked for" said Talisa.
Ashara finished her wine and stood up.
"Walk with me" said Ashara.
Talisa slowly stood up before taking Ashara's arm and allowing her Good Mother to lead her out of the solar.
Storms End – 302 A.C
Four days later…
Steffon Baratheon pushed past some of his House Guards as he made his way across the bridge exiting Storms End.
Several Hightower, Tarly and Royce Soldiers were stood next to a wagon which contained two coffins in the back while one of the Royce Soldiers was holding onto a rolled up scroll.
"What is this?" said Steffon Baratheon bitterly.
"His Grace Edric Baratheon has a message for you, along with a token gesture" said one of the Royce Soldiers as he handed the scroll to Steffon Baratheon.
Some of the Soldiers removed the coffins from the wagon placing them on the floor in front of Steffon Baratheon.
"Your Father asked to be returned to Storms End if he fell in battle" said one of the Hightower Soldiers solemnly.
Steffon Baratheon sighed.
"And the other?" said Steffon Baratheon bitterly.
"Your Uncle the Kingslayer" said the same Hightower Soldier.
Steffon Baratheon scowled.
"How did they die?" said Steffon Baratheon flatly.
"Your Father was executed by His Grace… and your Uncle died with sword in hand, as he wanted" said one of the Tarly Soldiers.
Steffon Baratheon turned to his Guards.
"Take the bodies back inside" said Steffon Baratheon.
"And what of these traitors Your Grace?" said one of the Guards.
Steffon Baratheon glanced back at the other Soldiers.
"Just let them go" said Steffon Baratheon bitterly.
The Soldiers nodded before unfastening the two horses from the wagon.
Steffon Baratheon and his Guards carried the coffins back into Storms End as the other Soldiers rode away from Storms End.
Once the drawbridge had been raised Cersei Baratheon came striding into the courtyard with two Lannister Red Cloak Guards by her side.
"Mother" said Steffon Baratheon.
"Show me" said Cersei Baratheon angrily.
The Baratheon Guards looked at each other for a few moments unsure of what to do.
"Now!" shouted Cersei Baratheon sounding enraged.
"Mother" warned Steffon Baratheon.
His Mother glared at him with a silent warning that she would not be deterred from seeing the bodies.
Steffon Baratheon sighed and nodded to the Guards who removed the lids from the coffins.
Cersei Baratheon looked down at the headless decomposing body of her Husband and sighed.
It was then that she saw the body of her Twin Brother and froze up.
After several seconds she dropped to her knees and cried out in grief.
Steffon Baratheon shut his eyes as his Mother cried over the body of his Uncle.
"Have them buried in the crypts" said Steffon Baratheon with a sigh.
"Yes Your Grace" said one of the Guards.
Steffon Baratheon knelt down next to his Mother placing his hands on her shoulders.
He tried to pull her away from the bodies but she pushed him away.
"Come on Mother, you cannot stay here forever, Shireen and Tommen need you" said Steffon Baratheon.
"Leave me" said Cersei Baratheon icily.
Steffon Baratheon sighed and stood up.
He made his way back into the main keep leaving his Mother to grieve for his Uncle on her own.
Harranhal – 302 A.C
Two days later…
Edric Baratheon was stood in the main solar along with Barristan Selmy.
"Ser Barristan" said Edric Baratheon.
Barristan Selmy straightened up.
"Your Grace?" said Barristan Selmy dutifully.
Edric Baratheon walked closer to the large section of wall that overlooked one of the many courtyards.
"Send for the Maester, command him to send ravens to Highgarden, Kings Landing, Storms End and Sunspear" said Edric Baratheon confidently.
"Bearing what message Your Grace?" said Barristan Selmy dutifully.
Edric Baratheon turned to him.
"Tell them that their King is offering them one final chance to surrender and support the true King of Westeros, and that if they refuse they will be declared as traitors to the realm and suffer the appropriate consequences" said Edric Baratheon confidently.
Barristan Selmy managed a proud smile before bowing his head.
"At once Your Grace" said Barristan Selmy.
Edric Baratheon nodded.
"Send scouts to Kings Landing, we march as soon as we receive word of how large their army is" said Edric Baratheon.
Barristan Selmy bowed his head before leaving the solar.
Ravens sent to all of the enemy castles left Harrnahal nearly an hour later along with two Scouts who rode away from Harranhal heading for Kings Landing.
Kings Landing – 302 A.C
Three and a half weeks later…
Minisa was stood out on her balcony dressed in her silk nightdress looking out at the city below her as she sipped a cup of Dornish Red.
"It was not meant to be like this" said Minisa sadly.
Prince Quentyn Martell walked up to her and caressed her shoulders.
"You will not keep your throne through peace alone, to keep the Iron Throne one must crush all of those who seek to take it from you" said Prince Quentyn.
Minisa sighed and glanced back at their newborn Daughter Elianna Martell who had been born two weeks ago.
She was sleeping in her cot at the foot of the bed.
"I took the throne from the bastard who wanted to steal it from me and our Son, and now it feels like our Son will never sit on it" said Minisa wearily.
Prince Quentyn tensed up.
"Our Son will rule Westeros one day, I will make sure of it… I will kill that bastard thief, I swear it by the Old Gods and the New" said Prince Quentyn flatly.
Minisa sighed and grasped his hand as she turned around.
She kissed him and looked into his eyes.
"Kill him for me, kill him so he cannot take our Son's birthright" said Minisa.
Prince Quentyn moved his hands to her shoulders and started to remove her nightdress.
"He will die My Queen, of that I promise you" said Prince Quentyn reassuringly.
Minisa pressed her head into his shoulder as he pulled her nightdress down her body.
The next day…
Minisa was stood on her balcony looking out at the city once again as she cradled her Daughter in her arms.
After a few minutes her eyes went wide as she spotted something in the distance that caused the bells around the city to ring out warning everyone of imminent danger.
A large army was quickly mobilising near the walls of the city.
Minisa looked down at her Daughter who was awoken by the bells.
Elianna had started to cry and would not stop even when Minisa started to sooth her.
Minisa looked up at the army once again with a worried look on her face.
What she had spent the last nine moons or so fearing had finally come true.
Edric Baratheon had finally come for his throne.
"And I am standing in his way, along with my children" thought Minisa worriedly.
She turned around towards the door when she heard it open.
Prince Quentyn was stood in the doorway with a shocked look on his face.
"He is here" said Prince Quentyn bitterly.
Minisa frowned and walked over to her bed and sat down.