The Rise Of A Dynasty
Kings Landing – 302 A.C
Six hours later…
Edric Baratheon sat atop his horse with Barristan Selmy and Robar Royce at his side.
The remaining members of his Kingsguard Martyn Hightower and Balon Swann were sat atop their horses behind them.
Balon Swann was in his late 20's and stood at 6'0 tall. He was broad chested and muscular with short brown hair and light matching stubble.
Ned, Arthur, Lyanna, Arron Dayne, Greatjon Umber, Roose Bolton, Medger Cerwyn and Maege Mormont were sat atop their horses on Edric Baratheon's left. Gendry, Baelor Hightower, Selwyn Tarth, Randyll Tarly and Yohn Royce were sat atop their horses on Edric Baratheon's right.
They all waited patiently watching as the representatives from the Crown rode towards them.
Catelyn, Brynden Tully, Prince Quentyn, Oberyn Martell, Mace and Willas Tyrell along with a dozen Dornish mounted riders and three Kingsguard knights.
They came to a halt twenty feet away from them and locked eyes with them.
"Usurper" said Catelyn flatly.
Edric Baratheon nodded to her.
"Murderer" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
There was total silence between the two groups for several moments.
"What are you doing here?" said Mace Tyrell.
"I think you know Lord Tyrell… the rightful King has come for his throne" said Randyll Tarly bitterly.
"Oathbreaker" spat Willas Tyrell.
"Lord Tarly honoured his vows to his King, while you broke them, who is the real oathbreaker?" said Barristan Selmy.
Willas Tyrell looked ready to retort but Mace Tyrell stopped him.
"What do you expect us to do?" said Mace Tyrell.
Ned straightened up.
"Surrender to your rightful King, and mercy will be shown to those of you who deserve it" said Ned.
"You expect us to surrender so easily Lord Stark?" said Oberyn Martell sarcastically.
Ned sighed and turned around before nodding.
"His Grace is willing to grant House Martell with a gift should you surrender" said Ned turning back to the others as Jon and Smalljon Umber led a single masked prisoner over to them.
They forced the prisoner to their knees before unmasking him as Tywin Lannister who was looking at them with a neutral look.
Oberyn Martell straightened up.
"Surrender, and the man who ordered the death of your Sister Elia Martell and her Son will be given to you, after that you will be able to do what you please with him" said Lyanna.
Oberyn Martell locked eyes with her.
"You think one prisoner is enough to make us surrender whore… after we kill you tomorrow, I will take Tywin Lannister from your camp and kill him myself" said Oberyn Martell bitterly.
Lyanna straightened up.
"Very well then" said Lyanna.
She nodded to Jon and Smalljon Umber who took Tywin Lannister away from them.
"I suggest you think about the terms we offered you all those moons ago bastard, or you will meet your end on the battlefield tomorrow" said Catelyn icily.
Edric Baratheon locked eyes with Catelyn.
"I think that concludes the negotiations, farewell" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
Catelyn and the others turned their horses around to ride back towards Kings Landing.
"I will find you tomorrow bastard, and you will fall" said Prince Quentyn looking right at Edric Baratheon before he rode away.
Edric Baratheon turned around and started to ride back towards their camp followed by the others.
"Triple the Guards tonight, no one gets into the camp unseen" said Edric Baratheon as he looked at Randyll Tarly.
Randyll Tarly nodded as they started to ride even faster.
Later that night…
"And we are sure that they only have 70,000 men, that they have not managed to get more men before we arrived here" said Edric Baratheon.
He was stood around a large table with Ned, Jon, Robb, Theon, Lyanna, Arthur, Arron and Vorian Dayne, Barristan Selmy, Baelor, Garth and Artos Hightower, Randyll and Dickon Tarly, Yohn, Andar and Robar Royce, Selwyn Tarth, Beric Dondarrion, Gendry and Martynn Hightower.
There was a large map of Kings Landing on the table.
"Our scouts say they have not managed to get any more men Your Grace" said Selwyn Tarth.
"But they do not need them, Kings Landing is well equipped to withstand a long siege, and if they are smart they will have shored up their defences" said Barristan Selmy.
Edric Baratheon nodded.
"What is our best option if we want to breach the walls?" said Edric Baratheon.
Arthur took a step towards the table.
"The Mud Gate is the weakest part of the walls, the gates are made of simple steel instead of cold wrought steel and the walls are lower… so attacking there would be the best bet, but the battlements will be manned" said Arthur placing his finger on the map showing the Mud Gate.
Barristan Selmy nodded in agreement.
"Ser Arthur is right, the Mud Gate has always been the weakest of the defences of Kings Landing, and there are ways to reach the main gates from there" said Barristan Selmy.
"We should focus our efforts on two attacks, our main army should attack the main gates, while a small force takes the Mud Gate, if they enter the city that way, then maybe they could open the main gates for our army" said Ned.
Edric Baratheon nodded.
"A sound plan Lord Stark, do you think it would be possible Lord Tarly?" said Edric Baratheon.
Randyll Tarly remained silent for a few moments before nodding.
"It is possible yes, but it is a risky move, we do not know how many men will be waiting for us outside the city walls, or inside them" said Randyll Tarly.
"Your Grace, with your permission I will take the Mud Gate for you, I know its weaknesses and its strengths" said Arthur.
Edric Baratheon turned to him and nodded.
"Very well, how many men do you need to take the gate?" said Edric Baratheon.
"Give me 20,000 men, and it will fall" said Arthur flatly.
Edric Baratheon turned to Barristan Selmy who nodded.
"You will have the men needed to take it, my Brother will go with you, he knows that part of the city well" said Edric Baratheon looking across the table at Gendry who nodded.
"I know the quickest routes to take to reach the main gates" said Gendry.
Arthur stiffly nodded.
"Very well" said Arthur stiffly.
Later that night…
Beric was sat at the makeshift table in his tent writing a multiple paged raven scroll.
My Beautiful Talisa
As I write this the thought of the battle that I will soon face is threatening to consume my thoughts. The only things that take my mind away from those thoughts are you and Leyla.
I miss you greatly and more so the fact that I cannot be there with you while you are carrying our child in your belly. I miss holding you at night, I miss you nursing my aches and bruises. I miss making love to you at night before we sleep, feeling the warmth of your body at the end of a long hard day.
By the time you receive this the battle will be over and we will have either won or lost. If we are victorious I will send you another raven as quickly as I can. Tell Leyla that I love her more than anything and that I will be home soon.
Your Loving Husband
Beric
Beric rolled the three pages of parchment tightly and sealed it with his sigil.
He stood up and walked out of his tent heading for the Maester who was stood by a small amount of raven cages.
"Send this to Winterfell with haste" said Beric flatly.
The Maester bowed his head and took the tightly sealed raven scroll from Beric before said man moved away from him.
The next morning…
Jon readied his axe as he looked out at the battlefield from his position with the infantry.
There were at least 50,000 enemy Soldiers positioned along the walls of Kings Landing over a mile away from them including at least 30,000 cavalry while hundreds of archers manned the walls behind them.
Their own army numbered around 75,000 in total but 20,000 of those were making their way towards the Mud Gate to start their attack.
Jon looked to his left at Smalljon Umber and Rodrik Forrester who were holding onto their greatsword's ready for a fight.
He then looked to his right where Harrion and Jonothor Karstark were holding onto their swords with flat looks on their faces.
Behind them stood nearly 8,000 infantry surrounding a shield covered battering ram designed to protect soldiers against arrows and rocks.
"How long?" said Jonothor Karstark bitterly.
Jon sighed.
"Anytime now" said Jon flatly.
"Best be… the sooner we take that city the easier it will be to end this blasted war" said Smalljon Umber gruffly.
"And I have a Wife and Daughter to be getting back too" said Rodrik Forrester gruffly.
Jon nodded.
"We all have families awaiting our return" said Jon solomnly.
Meanwhile…
Edric Baratheon looked out at the battlefield from his position between Barristan Selmy and Robar Royce.
He was sat atop his horse preparing to charge with the second wave of cavalry.
He glanced to his right to see Ned and Beric stood together with their weapons in hand.
Ned turned to him and nodded.
"Its time" said Ned flatly.
Edric Baratheon nodded and turned to Randyll Tarly who was sat atop his horse to Edric Baratheon's left.
"Now" said Edric Baratheon.
Randyll Tarly nodded and rode away from them towards the first wave of cavalry consisting of Northerner's, Stormlanders and Dayne mounted men numbering around 9,000.
Robb and Lyra were at the front of the cavalry along with Vorian Dayne.
The latter turned to Randyll Tarly as he approached.
"Now" said Randyll Tarly gruffly.
Robb nodded and raised a battle horn to his lips before blowing into it.
As if on cue the first wave of cavalry charged forwards.
Robb lowered his spear before the first wave of cavalry divided in two halves charging straight for the sides of the Crown's army to flank them in a pincer movement while near 30,000 cavalry fighting for the Crown army started their own charge.
Meanwhile…
Jon and the others watched in silence as the second and third waves of cavalry rode straight at the Crown's army to hit them head on.
Once the rest of their cavalry collided with the Crown cavalry Jon turned to the others.
"Sound the horns" said Jon.
Smalljon Umber and Harrion Karstark raised horns to their lips and blew into them along with several others in the infantry.
Jon gripped his axe in both hands and started to charge forwards eager to enter the battle.
The sounds of 8,000 infantry rushing forwards sounded like thunder around the battlefield.
It took them several minutes to reach the battle where they crashed into the crown's army.
Half an hour later…
Edric Baratheon raised his large rounded shield to block a strike from a Reach Infantryman before stabbing him in the gut with his longsword.
He had abandoned his horse after several minutes of fighting choosing to fight on his feet with his longsword and shield instead.
Albar Royce, Gregor and Asher Forrester were fighting by his side having taken up the task of protecting their King when the Kingsguard had become separated from Edric Baratheon to lead groups of men in the battle.
The three formed a protective triangle around Edric Baratheon killing most of the men who were bold enough to attack their King.
Edric Baratheon cut down another Reach Infantryman before glancing forwards.
They were pushing against the enemy Soldiers trying to make their way towards the gates in the process.
He saw Prince Quentyn, Oberyn Martell, Mace and Willas Tyrell sat on their horses near the gates looking at the battle from their safe position behind their infantry.
"Push forwards!" shouted Gregor Forrester as he cut a Dornish Soldier down with House Forrester's ancestral greatsword.
Upon hearing the command their army started to push the Crown's army back towards the gate killing them as they moved back.
Meanwhile…
Ned swung his greatsword downwards killing a Dornish Soldier before barging another one to the floor.
"This better be my last war" thought Ned bitterly as he exhaled before striking another enemy.
Ned fought his way through several Soldiers before he heard a voice call out to him.
"Lord Stark!" shouted a cocky but familiar male voice.
Ned turned to the direction of the voice to see Gerold Dayne looking at him with an arrogant smirk on his face as he twirled his curved sword.
Ned moved towards his Wife's distant Cousin.
Gerold Dayne stalked around him before quickly moving to strike Ned's leg.
Being experienced and battle hardened had reinforced Ned's defences in preparation for attacks like this and he blocked it with relative ease.
Gerold Dayne hurled even more insults at Ned as they fought with the two clashing swords violently for a good few minutes.
Ned saw his small opening when he knocked Gerold Dayne's sword to the side.
He quickly swung his sword around taking off Gerold Dayne's head with one clean strike.
Gerold Dayne's body dropped to the floor as his head rolled across the battlefield away from Ned.
Showing no remorse Ned quickly turned and attacked another Soldier as the battle raged on.
One hour later…
Gendry gripped his warhammer in one hand as he quickly climbed up the ladder leading up onto the battlements next alongside the Mud Gate.
Despite suffering casualties they managed to get their ladders up against the walls and their battering ram to the gates.
Gendry leapt over the walls and gripped his warhammer in both hands as enemy Soldiers rushed towards him.
As Arya, Edric Dayne and several other Soldiers joined him on the battlements he swung his warhammer in a sidewards strike hitting one of the enemy Soldiers in the side knocking him off of the wall.
Almost immediately after this he had to raise his warhammer to block an incoming downwards strike from another Soldier before killing him too.
He pushed forwards with more and more of their men as they climbed up the ladders eager to take Kings Landing.
"With me men, in the name of King Edric lets take this city!" shouted Gendry as he raised his warhammer with one hand.
He led the charge along the battlements killing the Soldiers in their way.
Nearly two hours later…
Edric Baratheon pulled his sword out of one of the Dornish Soldiers and gripped it in both hands.
He had lost his shield over an hour ago thanks to Manfred Mallister who was then killed by Gregor Forrester.
As he gutted another Dornish Soldier he quickly sidestepped a well aimed slash from a Dornish curved sword.
King Quentyn was moving towards him engaging him in a rapid sword fight.
Edric Baratheon felt someone pull him back.
He saw that it was Asher Forrester had pulled him back and engaged the Dornish King along with Albar Royce.
While the two were skilled battle hardened warriors they were no match for the skilled Dornish King who cut them both down with some difficulty.
Edric Baratheon looked down at them and growled before charging King Quentyn.
Attack, parry, attack, parry was how it continued between the two Kings for the next few minutes.
Both knew that eventually the cycle had to break with each man going close to breaking it as they caught each other on the arms and shoulders every now and then.
After another minute or two the cycle did break as King Quentyn knocked Edric Baratheon to the floor.
He looked up at the King Prince who was looking down at him with a cocky smirk.
"Time to die Usurper" said King Quentyn amusedly as he twirled his sword in one hand.
Edric Baratheon squeezed his eyes shut as King Quentyn charged forwards to kill him.
But Edric Baratheon never felt that killing blow.
He slowly opened his eyes to see King Quentyn frozen in place with a blood soaked sword sticking out of his mouth.
Edric Baratheon kept still as the Dornish King collapsed to his knees.
A sweaty bloodied Beric was stood behind the Dornish King holding onto his shoulder with one hand while his sword was in the other.
Beric pulled his sword out of King Quentyn before pulling Edric Baratheon to his feet.
Beric pushed Edric Baratheon back towards Brienne Of Tarth who had come to Harranhal with reinforcements from The Vale one and a half moons prior.
"Protect the King Lady Brienne!" shouted Beric.
Brienne nodded and moved to intercept a Dornish Soldier who was attempting to attack Edric Baratheon.
Meanwhile…
Jon was breathing heavily as he pulled Ice out of the stomach of a Dornish Soldier.
He glanced towards the gates where several of their Soldiers had pushed the large battering ram towards the gates and were starting to use it.
He then looked over to his left and saw that Greatjon Umber was stood holding onto his greatsword with one hand and the severed head of Mace Tyrell in his other hand.
Greatjon Umber roared before throwing the head up onto the battlements where Willas Tyrell was stood with Lord Paxter Redwyne.
"Come on you lazy fuckers, break it down!" roared Greatjon Umber.
He moved towards the battering ram to help break the gates down.
Jon moved back over to Ned as the battle outside the gates slowed to a halt.
After a few minutes they heard the unmistakable sounds of the gates being unlocked.
All of the Soldiers readied their weapons expecting another Crown army to come out of the gates once they were opened.
After another minute or two the gates slowly opened with the exhausted Gendry, Arya and Edric Dayne stood on the other side.
Jon and the others breathed sighs of relief before moving towards the gates.
Ten minutes later…
Catelyn was stood on the balcony of her chambers over looking the city below her.
She growled as she could make out the figures of the rebels charging through the main gates in the distance.
After a few moments she turned around to see Brynden Tully, Oberyn Martell and Willas Tyrell walking into her chambers.
"What went wrong, how did they get into the city?" said Catelyn bitterly.
"They took the Mud Gate Your Grace, and opened the main gates for their army" said Willas Tyrell.
"And the King?" said Catelyn.
Oberyn Martell scowled and looked away from her.
"Dead" said Oberyn Martell bitterly before picking up a full bottle of Dornish Red wine and throwing it across the room causing it to smash into the wall.
Catelyn sighed and looked down for a brief moment.
"How many men do we have left?" said Catelyn.
"20,000 Your Grace" said Brynden Tully.
Catelyn scowled and nodded.
"I want every man you can get defending the Red Keep" said Catelyn bitterly.
Oberyn Martell and Willas Tyrell bowed their heads before leaving the chambers.
Brynden Tully walked towards Catelyn.
"Uncle… I want you to command the men defending the Red Keep" said Catelyn flatly.
Brynden Tully sighed before pulling his Niece into a hug.
"And kill the bastard, then if I die at least I will have the satisfaction that he never became King" said Catelyn bitterly.
Twenty minutes later…
Gendry and Edric Baratheon were walking side by side towards the Red Keep surrounded by the Kingsguard with their army behind them.
When they reached the gates leading into the Red Keep they found them closed with a large Crown army stood outside waiting for them with a hundred or so archers and crossbowmen manning the walls.
At the front of the army they saw Brynden Tully, Oberyn Martell and Willas Tyrell looking at them.
Edric Baratheon sighed.
"The battle is over, you have lost" said Edric Baratheon.
The three Men scowled.
"This battle is not over… not while we still draw breath" said Willas Tyrell bitterly.
"Very well then, this battle will end with your blood" said Edric Baratheon readying his sword.
"Or yours" said Oberyn Martell.
He charged forwards straight for Edric Baratheon followed by the rest of their army as arrows and crossbow bolts rained down on them from above.
The Kingsguard stepped in front of Gendry and Edric Baratheon with the rebel army charged forwards as well.
As the battle raged on the rebels slowly started to move closer to the gates as their own archers started to take out the Crown's archers on the walls bringing the rain of arrows to a halt.
Arthur pulled Dawn out of Paxter Redwyne's chest before turning to Oberyn Martell who pulled his spear out of Wylis Manderly's chest.
The two Men stared at each other before slowly circling each other for a moment.
Meanwhile…
As he had expected Jon found himself crossing swords with Willas Tyrell who was attacking him in a brutal rage.
"The only regret I have is that my Sister married you" growled Willas Tyrell as he forced Jon onto the defensive.
Jon knocked him backwards with a hard swing of Ice.
"Its just a shame I have to kill my Wife's Brother" growled Jon as he attacked Willas Tyrell again forcing him on the defensive.
Jon used all of his strength to batter Willas Tyrell for several minutes before he finally disarmed him.
Willas Tyrell's eyes widened in shock for a moment before Jon gripped his shoulder and plunged Ice straight through his stomach with so much force that it went in all the way to the hilt.
Jon sighed before pushing Willas Tyrell off of his sword and attacking another Tyrell Soldier.
Five minutes later…
Barristan Selmy breathed heavily as he moved through the battle with ease defeating opponent after opponent before coming face to face with Brynden Tully.
One of the greatest swordsmen in the Seven Kingdoms facing off against one of the greatest Military Commanders of the Seven Kingdoms.
Showing no emotion Barristan Selmy charged Brynden Tully.
Meanwhile…
Arthur took a step backwards to avoid the thrust of Oberyn Martell's spear which he was sure was coated with some poison or other.
Oberyn Martell smirked before charging Arthur again.
Struggling to gain the upper hand Arthur instead resigned himself to dodging and parrying Oberyn Martell's attacks.
After a few minutes Arthur quickly changed strategy.
He waited for Oberyn Martell to thrust his spear forwards before spinning along the side of the spear and slashing the Dornish Prince across the back with Dawn.
Oberyn Martell was knocked forwards with a cry of pain before Arthur seized his moment and drove Dawn straight through the Dornish Princes back.
Oberyn Martell dropped his spear as he died with Dawn in his chest.
Arthur held him there for a few moments before pulling Dawn out of his chest.
As Oberyn Martell dropped to the floor the battle started to grind to a halt.
Soon enough only Barristan Selmy and Brynden Tully were left fighting.
After a few moments Gendry sighed and moved behind Brynden Tully.
He swung his warhammer with all of his strength down onto Brynden Tully's head caving it in.
Gendry raised his warhammer and hit Brynden Tully again as he hit the floor completely destroying the older man's head.
Gendry looked down at the body breathing heavily.
"The battle is over… we have won!" shouted Gendry voice full of pride and confidence.
The Rebel army roared and started chants of "Long live King Edric" and "For the King".
"Get the gates down!" shouted Ned.
The Rebels roared once again.
Ned turned around and walked away from them followed by some of the others as they went to retrieve the battering ram.
It took them well over an hour before they were able to breach the reinforced gates of the Red Keep.
Ned led the charge through the Red Keep until they arrived at the Throne Room finding it as empty as the rest of the Red Keep.
As they made their way through the Throne Room Ned turned to Greatjon Umber, Medger Cerwyn and Wendel Manderly.
"Search every inch of the Red Keep, bring back any prisoners… kill any man who resists" said Ned flatly.
The three Men bowed their heads before making their way towards the door at the back of the Throne Room.
Once they were gone Ned turned to face Edric Baratheon as he climbed the stairs leading to the Iron Throne.
Once their King took his rightful place on the Iron Throne Ned and the others knelt down on one knee and bowed their heads to their King.
They stayed in that position for the next few moments before rising to their feet once again when commanded to do so.
Edric Baratheon stood up.
"Lord Stark" said Edric Baratheon confidently.
Ned took a step forwards and bowed his head.
"Send ravens to every major House in the Seven Kingdoms, inform them that they are to come to Kings Landing and swear fealty to their rightful King… and send a raven to Winterfell asking that the Queen be escorted to Kings Landing" said Edric Baratheon.
Ned bowed his head.
"At once Your Grace" said Ned dutifully.
Edric Baratheon nodded.
"Ser Baelor Hightower, Ser Wendel Manderly" said Edric Baratheon.
Both men moved out of the crowd and knelt down before the steps.
"Go down to the harbour, seize every remaining ship that belonged to the Royal Fleet, and make sure that no other ships enter or leave the harbour until I say so" said Edric Baratheon.
"At once Your Grace" said Baelor Hightower.
He and Wendel Manderly stood up before turning around and walking towards the doors.
"Lord Tarth" said Edric Baratheon.
Selwyn Tarth stepped forwards and knelt down on one knee.
"What is your command Your Grace?" said Selwyn Tarth.
Edric Baratheon straightened up.
"Find the Commanders of the Gold Cloaks and bring them here, put them in irons if you have to" said Edric Baratheon.
Selwyn Tarth bowed his head before standing up and walking back into the crowd.
Edric Baratheon straightened up to address the Throne Room.
"Its time for a change My Lords, with me as your King I will see to it that Westeros knows a peace that it has not experienced for many years, no man, be he rich or poor will ever live in fear again, I swear this by the Old Gods and the New" said Edric Baratheon confidently.
A long silence around the Throne Room followed his words before applause broke out.
Later that night…
Beric approached the double doors leading to the Kings Chambers where Robar Royce and Balon Swann were standing guard outside.
Beric cleared his throat.
"His Grace has summoned me Sers" said Beric with a hint of nervousness.
Robar Royce kept his eyes on Beric as he knocked on the door.
"Yes" shouted Edric Baratheon.
"Beric Stark to see you Your Grace" shouted Robar Royce.
"Send him in" shouted Edric Baratheon.
Robar Royce opened the door and stepped aside.
Beric nodded and walked through the door into the spacious chambers.
Once inside he saw Edric and Myrcella Baratheon sat at the table in the centre of the chambers.
Myrcella Baratheon would not meet his eyes while Edric Baratheon was looking at him with an icy look on his face.
What caught Beric's eye however was the sealed scroll on the table in front of Edric Baratheon.
Beric bowed his head.
"Your Grace, Princess" said Beric.
Edric Baratheon turned to Mycella Baratheon.
"Myrcella… Lord Stark here has something to say to you" said Edric Baratheon.
Beric sighed and took a step towards them as Edric Baratheon turned back to him.
"Princess Myrcella… I have come here to ask for your forgiveness for dishonouring our betrothal and taking another woman to Wife" said Beric humbly.
Myrcella Baratheon turned to face him.
"Do you love your Wife My Lord?" said Myrcella Baratheon flatly.
Beric nodded.
"I do Princess, I did not break our betrothal to spite you, I broke it because I wanted to marry someone I loved instead, and I am sorry that I dishonoured you by doing so" said Beric humbly.
Myrcella Baratheon stiffly nodded.
"And what does your new Wife think about your bastard?" said Myrcella Baratheon icily.
Beric flinched slightly.
"She is willing to raise Leyla as if she were her own Daughter, regardless of the name she has" said Beric flatly.
Myrcella Baratheon froze up before locking eyes with him.
"I hope she makes you happy My Lord" said Myrcella Baratheon icily.
She turned to Edric Baratheon who nodded.
"Ser Balon will take you back to your chambers" said Edric Baratheon.
Myrcella Baratheon turned and walked past Beric towards the doors without saying another word.
A few moments after the door shut Edric Baratheon nodded his head to the scroll on the table.
"Pick it up" said Edric Baratheon.
Beric slowly moved towards the table and picked up the scroll.
He looked back at Edric Baratheon.
"Read it" said Edric Baratheon.
Beric broke the seal and unrolled the scroll.
"You saved my life today… that is my thanks to you, despite your actions against my Sister" said Edric Baratheon.
Beric started to read the scroll.
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.
In the sight of Gods and Men I King Edric Baratheon decree that Leyla Snow, bastard Daughter of Ser Beric Stark will hereby be known as Leyla Stark, from this day until her last day.
Signed, Edric Baratheon, King of the Seven Kingdoms
Beric looked at Edric Baratheon in shock.
"That is your reward for saving my life… but as punishment for what you did to my Sister I want you to leave Kings Landing and return to the North, I do not think it will be appropriate for you to remain in Kings Landing where my Sister will be forever reminded about how you broke your vow to her" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
Beric knelt down.
"If that is Your Grace's command… then I will honour it, but I should let you know that the Queen will be angry with you for this" said Beric humbly.
Edric Baratheon sighed.
"She will be angry yes… but she will learn to overcome that anger with time" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
Beric sighed.
"There will be a ship sailing for White Harbour at sunrise Lord Stark, I expect you to be on it when it leaves" said Edric Baratheon.
"Of course Your Grace, though I ask that you allow me to send a raven to Winterfell before I leave" said Beric dutifully.
"How you spend your time before you leave Kings Landing is of no concern of mine, do what you wish with it" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
Beric bowed his head before standing up.
"May I go Your Grace?" said Beric.
Edric Baratheon nodded before standing up and walking towards his smaller table to pour himself some wine.
Beric turned around and left the chambers.
He spent the rest of the night bidding farewell to his family and friends most of whom were furious with the Kings decision to practically banish him from Kings Landing for the foreseeable future.
Winterfell – 302 A.C
Three days later…
Ashara was stood on the balcony overlooking the training yard watching as the now 11 year old Bran practised his sword fighting against the 13 year old Ryon Forrester, the 14 year old Jarrod Cerwyn and the 11 year old Rodrik Norrey under the tutelage of Ser Rodrik.
As Ashara looked down at the courtyard in silence giving Bran a small wave as he looked up at her Maester Lewin walked towards her.
"Lady Stark" said Maester Lewin.
Ashara turned to face him.
Maester Lewin held two raven scrolls out towards her.
"From Kings Landing My Lady" said Maester Lewin.
Ashara slowly took the raven scrolls from him and unrolled one of them which was sealed with the Direwolf sigil.
Ashara
We were victorious in defeating the combined Crown forces and taking Kings Landing for the King who now sits on the Iron Throne. His Grace asks that you travel to Kings Landing with the Queen and the others for his official coronation. You may have also received a raven from Beric who has something very important to tell you. I hope that this letter reaches you safely and that I will see you in Kings Landing in a few weeks.
Ned
Ashara smiled before pocketing the scroll as she looked down at the other scroll which was also sealed with the Direwolf sigil.
She broke the seal and unrolled it before she seethed at what she read.
Mother
After a very long discussion I managed to persuade Father to let me tell you about this instead of him telling you. The King formally legitimized Leyla allowing her to grow up with the Stark name instead of the Snow name. But it has come at a cost, he has effectively banished me from Kings Landing and does not wish for me to return there again given that I broke my vow to Princess Myrcella. As such I will be remaining in the North with my Wife and Daughter while you travel south with the others.
Love, Beric
Ashara seethed.
"How dare he, how dare he banish my Son for what he did" thought Ashara bitterly.
"Lady Stark?" said Maester Lewin.
Ashara turned to face him as he was looking at her with a worried look on his face.
She composed herself.
"Call everyone to the great hall in half an hour Maester, for a special announcement" said Ashara.
Maester Lewin bowed his head before walking away.
Ashara looked down at her Son's raven scroll once again.
"Rest assured my sweet boy… you will not be banished from Kings Landing by the time I am done with the King" thought Ashara bitterly.
She rolled up the scroll before walking down the steps into the training yard.
Kings Landing – 302 A.C
Four days later…
King Edric Baratheon sat down on the Iron Throne as he looked down at court where his loyal Lords and the other Nobles had gathered to watch him address them.
He was dressed in a dark grey Baratheon tunic and breeches with his Father's gold stag antler styled throne on his head.
Ned was stood on his right hand side with Barristan Selmy on his left hand side.
Edric Baratheon leaned forwards with both hands on the sides of the throne.
"Bring in the prisoners… and my Sisters" said Edric Baratheon.
Jon, Robb and Theon bowed their heads before walking in the direction of the cells followed by two dozen Guards.
Once they had left Edric Baratheon leaned forwards.
"Ser Baelor Hightower, Lord Tarly, Lord Royce, Lord Tarth, Ser Arthur Dayne… step forwards" said Edric Baratheon clearly.
The five men stepped out of the crowd and knelt down to Edric Baratheon at the base of the steps.
"Your Grace" chorused the five men.
Edric Baratheon nodded.
"Lord Randyll Tarly… I name you my Master Of War, and invite you to sit on my Small Council" said Edric Baratheon.
Randyll Tarly bowed his head.
"You honour me your Grace" said Randyll Tarly.
"Come… stand besides your King My Lord" said Edric Baratheon gesturing to his left.
Randyll Tarly stood up and slowly made his way up the steps before standing in place besides Barristan Selmy.
"Lord Yohn Royce… I name you my Master Of Laws, come and join my side" said Edric Baratheon.
The Vale Lord thanked him before walking up the steps to stand at Ned's side.
"Ser Baelor Hightower… I name you my Master Of Coin" said Edric Baratheon.
Like Yohn Royce did before him Baelor Hightower thanked Edric Baratheon before walking up the steps and standing next to Randyll Tarly.
"Lord Selwyn Tarth… I name you my Master Of Ships" said Edric Baratheon.
Lord Selwyn Tarth thanked Edric Baratheon before taking his place next to Ned and Yohn Royce.
"Ser Arthur Dayne" said Edric Baratheon.
Arthur looked up at him.
"Your Grace" said Arthur dutifully.
Edric Baratheon straightened up.
"You are one of the finest warriors in the Seven Kingdoms, and your attack on the Mud Gate was instrumental in taking this city, I invite you to serve as one of my most trusted advisors, and to serve as the commander of my armies" said Edric Baratheon.
Arthur stood up.
"I am honoured to serve Your Grace" said Arthur dutifully.
He walked up to the throne to stand next to Ned once Edric Baratheon had gestured for him to stand with them.
Jon and the others returned with fourteen prisoners nearly half an hour later.
Catelyn, Littlefinger, Grand Maester Pycelle, Varys, Minisa, Lyanna, Myrcella and Cassana Baratheon, Olenna and Loras Tyrell, Tyene and Sarella Sand.
They had intended to take Prince Oberyn's eldest Daughters Obarra and Nymeria Sand prisoner as well but the two older girls died fighting against the men who had come to take them prisoner.
Edric Baratheon leaned forwards.
"Lord Varys… for your crimes against House Baratheon, I Edric of the House Baratheon, rightful King of the Seven Kingdoms, sentence you to die, do you have any last words?" said Edric Baratheon.
Varys only bowed his head.
"Lord Stark" said Edric Baratheon.
Ned unsheathed his sword and walked down the steps towards Varys who was pushed forwards by Theon.
The entire court watched in silence as Varys was beheaded followed by Grand Maester Pycelle, Littlefinger, Catelyn and Olenna Tyrell.
As the Guards dragged their bodies and heads from the throne room Edric Baratheon stood up.
"Loras Tyrell, as I understand you are now the last male Heir of House Tyrell" said Edric Baratheon as he walked down the steps followed by Barristan Selmy.
"No thanks to you" spat Loras Tyrell hatefully.
Edric Baratheon sighed.
"My Sister Lyanna was wed to the Heir of House Tyrell, and that marriage did not result in a Son… only a Daughter, therefore you will wed Lyanna of the House Baratheon eight days from now before the two of you return to Highgarden" said Edric Baratheon.
Lyanna Baratheon breathed a sigh of relief.
"Thank you for being so merciful Your Grace" said Loras Tyrell bitterly.
Edric Baratheon straightened up.
"I am not finished yet… House Tyrell is hereby stripped of its title of Warden's Of The Reach, and you will pay the crown two million Gold Dragons for your crimes" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
A deathly silence fell on the great hall.
"The Tyrells have been Warden's Of The Reach since the time of Aegon The Conqueror" said Loras Tyrell in shock.
"And now it is time for a change in The Reach… now House Tyrell owes fealty to House Hightower, who will serve as the new Warden's Of The Reach, you can abide by these terms, the other alternatives are the Wall or death, and the second born Son of Lord Jon and Lady Margaery Stark will become Lord Of Highgarden in your place" said Edric Baratheon.
Loras Tyrell scowled.
"House Tyrell accepts your terms Your Grace" said Loras Tyrell bitterly.
Edric Baratheon nodded.
"Take him back to his cell, and my Sister back to her chambers" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
Loras Tyrell struggled as he was dragged from the throne room while Lyanna Baratheon left peacefully.
Edric Baratheon sighed.
"Myrcella Baratheon… you will marry Edric of the House Dayne and travel to High Hermitage with him where the two of you will rule together" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
Myrcella Baratheon frowned and wiped tears from her eyes.
"Take her back to her chambers" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
He sighed as Myrcella Baratheon was escorted from the throne room by two Guards.
Edric Baratheon turned to Cassana Baratheon who was looking up at him in fear.
"Cassana Baratheon, you will go with her and serve as her handmaiden, take her back to her chambers" said Edric Baratheon quickly.
Cassana Baratheon was helped to her feet and escorted out of the throne room without another word.
Edric Baratheon walked back to the Iron Throne and sat down.
"Escort the former Queen Minisa back to her chambers and keep her under heavy guard, take the rest back to the cells" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
Once the remaining prisoners had been removed from the throne room Edric Baratheon straightened up.
"Gendry Baratheon… step forwards" said Edric Baratheon.
Gendry walked out of the crowd and knelt down at the base of the steps.
"Your Grace" said Gendry dutifully.
"Only Storms End stands against us now, their false king is dead, and their army has been crushed, ride to Storms End with our men, and take the castle for House Baratheon" said Edric Baratheon.
Gendry bowed his head.
"I will do as you command Your Grace" said Gendry dutifully.
Edric Baratheon nodded.
"You will leave in two days" said Edric Baratheon.
Gendry nodded.
"Storms End will be yours Your Grace" said Gendry dutifully.
"No… Storms End will be yours Brother, and your children after you" said Edric Baratheon.
Gendry looked up at him before rising to his feet.
Edric Baratheon turned to Selwyn Tarth.
"Lord Tarth… you are the most experienced battle commander from the Stormlands, I want you to accompany my Brother to Storms End, and help him take it for our family" said Edric Baratheon.
Selwyn Tarth bowed his head to Edric Baratheon.
"I will Your Grace" said Selwyn Tarth dutifully.
As Edric Baratheon nodded his head to the older man Robb walked out of the crowd towards the steps.
"Your Grace, you will need as many men as you can get for this fight… allow the North to march to Storms End as well" said Robb dutifully.
Edric Baratheon paused for a few moments before nodding.
"Your request is granted Lord Stark" said Edric Baratheon.
Storms End – 302 A.C
Two days later…
Steffon Baratheon was sat at the desk in his Father's Solar rubbing his forehead in his hands.
Their Scouts had reported the large incoming Rebel army leaving Kings Landing led by Arthur Dayne and Selwyn Tarth and that they would reach Storms End in a week at most.
He sighed before a knock at the door almost made him jump.
"Come in" said Steffon Baratheon.
The door opened and Davos Seaworth walked inside.
"Your Grace… the ship is ready to leave" said Davos Seaworth.
Steffon Baratheon sighed.
"You must flee Your Grace, some of these men are not to be trusted, they would turn you over to the enemy without a second thought if it meant saving themselves, how long before they do such a thing" said Davos Seaworth.
Steffon Baratheon stood up quickly with his hands on the desk.
"And what, flee to Essos, with a single ship and a few chests of gold, waiting for assassins to cut our throats in our sleep" said Steffon Baratheon bitterly.
Davos Seaworth walked up to the desk.
"You would be safer there than here, how long before some of your own men sell you, your Mother, and your siblings to this new King, he is a Baratheon-" said Davos Seaworth.
"He is a bastard, nothing more" said Steffon Baratheon bitterly cutting him off.
"Be that as it may Your Grace, with the Baratheon name he has a claim on this castle, he will not want any obstacles in his way if he claims this castle, that includes you and your siblings" said Davos Seaworth.
Steffon Baratheon scowled and turned away from him walking towards the window.
"I will not run from this pretender, if he wants this castle, he can bloody well take it the way everyone else does, with a battle" said Steffon Baratheon bitterly.
Davos Seaworth sighed.
"Ser Davos speaks the truth Your Grace… you cannot stay here, not if you want to survive" said Melisandre as she walked into the room.
Steffon Baratheon turned to her and growled.
"You told my Father you saw a vision of him sitting on the Iron Throne, yet he was beheaded by the bastard king, you had him believing in your stupid prophecies and visions and he died, I could have you thrown into Shipbreaker Bay if I wanted to" said Steffon Baratheon bitterly.
"That would be up to you Your Grace, I was wrong about your Father, but that does not mean you have to give up your life like this" said Melisandre.
Steffon Baratheon rounded on her.
"She is right Your Grace, do not be foolish by throwing your life away for a lost cause" said Davos Seaworth.
"And what would you have me do?" said Steffon Baratheon.
"Flee, flee before you are betrayed, rebuild this great House in Essos… and maybe one day you will be able to return to Westeros and fight for your crown" said Davos Seaworth.
Steffon Baratheon sighed and turned away from them.
"Leave me" said Steffon Baratheon.
Melisandre and Davos Seaworth did not move for several seconds before finally leaving the solar after Steffon Baratheon glared at them sending a clear message that he wanted to be left alone.