The Rise Of A Dynasty
Kings Landing – 302 A.C
Two days later…
Lord Commander Barristan Selmy was stood in the meeting chambers in the White Sword Tower.
He was dressed in his new Kingsguard armour which was a light grey steel colour on the plates on top of grey chainmail and a black tunic and breeches with his longsword strapped to his hip. The sigils of Houses Baratheon and Targaryan were prominent on his breast plate while his white cloak was fastened to the back of his armour.
He was stood next to the large white wood chair used by the Lord Commander of the Kingsguard. In front of the chair was a large round oak and metal table with the famous Book Of Brother's in front of him with his silver helm next to the book.
He opened the book to an empty page and sat down in his seat ready to add the new names of the Kingsguard to the book.
He made sure to leave enough empty pages between the names of Balon Swann, Martynn Hightower and Robar Royce as he wrote their names into the book.
Four Kingsguard so far.
Three more were needed to make the seven and after much careful consideration and discussions with the King and Queen Mother Lyanna he had finally made his choice.
As he finished writing the names in the book he turned back through the pages before adding to the chapters of the Kingsguard who had fallen during the war.
Jamie Lannister was the first.
Barristan Selmy let out a regretful sigh as he wrote about how Jamie Lannister had abandoned his position to join up with his Father's army when war fell on the Seven Kingdoms.
He finished the story by writing about how Jamie Lannister had perished fighting against Lyanna Stark in one on one combat at Casterly Rock.
Jonothor Florent was next with Barristan Selmy writing about how he died defending Minisa and her children.
Manfred Mallister, Aerys Oakheart, Mandon Moore and Preston Greenfield followed Jonothor Florent with Barristan Selmy writing about how they had been killed in the battle of Kings Landing.
The newest Kingsguard of the Tully's occupation of the Iron Throne was Loras Tyrell with Barristan Selmy writing about his role in the victory against Stannis Baratheon during the battle of Blackwater Bay and his eventual dismissal from the Kingsguard following the victory of Kings Landing.
Once Barristan Selmy had finished writing the stories of the lesser known Kingsguard he turned back several pages until he found Ser Oswell Whent's chapter.
He let out a sad sigh as he read the last line of his former sworn brothers chapter.
Banished from the Kingsguard by King Robert of the House Baratheon for his role in the kidnapping and death of Lyanna of the House Stark.
Barristan Selmy sighed before updating the chapter.
Died defending his King Edric Baratheon from the Tully Rebels during the Tully's betrayal at Kings Landing.
As Barristan Selmy turned back to the pages for the new Kingsguard there was a knock at the door.
"Lord Commander" said Robar Royce from outside the door.
Barristan Selmy looked towards the door.
"Send them in" said Barristan Selmy.
The door opened and three people walked inside followed by Martynn Hightower who was dressed in almost identical armour to Barristan Selmy.
Brienne Of Tarth, Jonothor Karstark and Ser Lyn Corbray.
Barristan Selmy looked at all of them with a steely look before standing up.
"I suppose you are wondering why I have called for you?" said Barristan Selmy.
None of the three said a word merely exchanging looks with each other.
Barristan Selmy took a step towards them and unsheathed his sword pointing it down to the ground with his hands on the handle.
"The Kingsguard is the most sacred order in the Seven Kingdoms, it is our duty to protect the King at all costs, even by giving our lives if need be… I have thought long and hard about this decision, and I want you to serve on the Kingsgaurd, from this day, until your last days" said Barristan Selmy.
The three Kingsguard prospects looked on in shock before Brienne knelt down before him.
"I cannot be a Kingsguard, I am not a knight Ser Barristan" said Brienne humbly.
Barristan Selmy smiled.
"You protected the King during the battle of Kings Landing, we were charged with his safety yet it was you who protected him" said Barristan Selmy humbly.
Brienne bowed her head.
"And for that, I want you to serve on the Kingsguard" said Barristan Selmy.
He placed his longsword on her right shoulder.
"In the name of the Warrior, I charge you to be brave" said Barristan Selmy.
He moved his sword to Brienne's left shoulder.
"In the name of the Father, I charge you to be just" said Barristan Selmy.
He moved his sword back to Brienne's right shoulder.
"In the name of the Mother, I charge you to defend the innocent" said Barristan Selmy.
Barristan Selmy removed his sword from Brienne's shoulder.
"Arise, Brienne Of Tarth… a knight of the Seven Kingdoms" said Barristan Selmy proudly.
Brienne swallowed before standing up.
Barristan Selmy shook her hand with a proud look on his face.
He turned to Jonothor Karstark.
"I am willing to serve my Queen on the Kingsguard, but I will not become a knight, I have no desire to be named as such in the eyes of those false Gods" said Jonothor Karstark flatly.
Barristan Selmy sighed and nodded after a few moments.
"Very well… I suppose we can make an exception, given that you were recommended for a place in the Kingsguard by the Queens Mother, who speaks highly of your skills with a sword, skills that would be useful to defend the King and Queen" said Barristan Selmy.
Jonothor Karstark stiffly nodded.
"I accept this position Lord Commander" said Jonothor Karstark flatly.
Barristan Selmy nodded before turning to Lyn Corbray who nodded.
"I would be honoured to serve on the Kingsguard Ser Barristan" said Lyn Corbray proudly.
Barristan Selmy nodded before turning to Brienne.
"Kneel, Ser Brienne" said Barristan Selmy.
Brienne knelt before him to swear her sacred Kingsguard vows.
"Do you swear to guard the King from harm or threat?" said Barristan Selmy sternly.
"I swear" said Brienne dutifully.
"Do you swear to obey the Kings commands?" said Barristan Selmy.
"I swear" said Brienne.
"Do you swear to keep the Kings secrets?" said Barristan Selmy.
"I swear" said Brienne.
"Do you swear to counsel the King when requested, and remain silent when not?" said Barristan Selmy.
"I swear" said Brienne.
"Do you swear to swear to defend the Kings name and honour, and if directed, protect any who he asks you to protect?" said Barristan Selmy.
"I swear" said Brienne.
"Then stand Ser Brienne Of Tarth, an honoured knight of the Kingsguard" said Barristan Selmy.
Brienne stood up with a proud smile on her face.
Lyn Corbray was the next to swear his vows with Jonothor Karstark going last.
The four Kingsguard had once again become seven.
Lord Commander Barristan Selmy, Martynn Hightower, Balon Swann, Robar Royce, Brienne Of Tarth, Lyn Corbray and Jonothor Karstark.
"The blacksmith will be here shortly to fit you all with armour… after which I will give you duties for the day" said Barristan Selmy.
He took his seat and opened the Book Of Brother's to finish updating the chapters of the new members of the Kingsguard.
Five days later…
Edric Baratheon walked through the doors into the Small Council chambers with Robar Royce following him.
He was dressed in a black House Baratheon tunic and breeches complete with his gold stag antler crown and carried himself with grace and composure.
As he entered the Small Council chambers the remaining members of his Small Council stood up and bowed their heads to him.
His Hand Of The King Ned Stark. His Master Of Coin Baelor Hightower. His Master Of Laws Yohn Royce. The Lord Commander of the Kingsguard Barristan Selmy.
The empty seats around the table signified the positions that had not been filled and the absence of the members who had travelled to Storms End.
Edric Baratheon took his seat.
"Be seated" said Edric Baratheon.
The others took their seats before Ned placed a sealed scroll on the table in front of Edric Baratheon.
"A rider arrived not fifteen minutes ago, from Storms End" said Ned.
Edric Baratheon picked the scroll up before looking at the stag wax seal and breaking it.
He started to read it as he unrolled it.
To King Edric of the House Baratheon.
Storms End is yours Your Grace. The servants of the castle yielded and opened the gates for us when we approached the castle.
Unfortunately we discovered that the remaining disloyal Baratheons and the men who remained loyal to them fled Storms End many days ago taking the rest of the gold and supplies from the castle.
Most of the staff and servants who remained in the castle have acknowledged that they were wrong to serve traitors and have asked for forgiveness while the few that would not renounce their oaths to traitors have been executed.
We have left a small army of loyal men to hold the castle in our absence while we return to Kings Landing.
Lord Selwyn Tarth
Lord of Evenfall Hall and Master Of Ships
"The rider said that they should be back at Kings Landing in a few days" said Ned.
Edric Baratheon nodded.
"Now that the last of our enemies have been dealt with… there is much to discuss, namely who will rule over the Riverlands and the Westerlands… as well as how we deal with the potential situation that will no doubt be brewing in Dorne" said Edric Baratheon placing the scroll on the desk.
"Well we still have Tywin Lannister, and two of Prince Oberyn's Daughters" said Ned.
"That would be a start, keeping hostages would ensure that they do not rebel against the Crown" said Baelor Hightower.
"Give them Tywin Lannister… and Prince Oberyn's Daughters" said Ned.
"Are you mad Lord Stark?" said Baelor Hightower in disbelief.
Ned held his hand up to silence him.
"In exchange for peace… and take another hostage in their place" said Ned.
Silence fell around the table before the rest of the Small Council and the King nodded in agreement.
"A sound plan… but what of Princess Minisa and her children, the children have Martell blood in them" said Edric Baratheon.
"Marry her off to a loyal Lord, and strip her children of their names and birthrights" said Baelor Hightower.
"A harsh punishment to be inflicted on two children who are not even old enough to understand what has happened over the last two years" said Ned frostily.
"Let them keep their names then, but raise them separate from their Mother, so she cannot use them to reclaim the throne" said Baelor Hightower.
Edric Baratheon sighed.
"They will be raised with their Mother, they will keep the Martell name of their Father… but they will be stripped of all birthrights, to the Throne and to Dorne" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
Ned sighed.
"And what of Edmure Tully… and the rest of the male Hostages?" said Ned.
"Give them a choice, death or the Wall" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
Barristan Selmy nodded in agreement.
"That would be for the best" said Barristan Selmy.
Edric Baratheon nodded before turning to Ned.
"Send ravens to every major castle in the Riverlands and the Westerlands, and to Sunspear as well… inform them to come to Kings Landing… with extra emphasis on the Martells" said Edric Baratheon.
Ned bowed his head.
"At once Your Grace" said Ned.
Edric Baratheon nodded and turned back to the others.
"There are many more things we must discuss today, best deal with them quickly, most importantly the need for a new Grand Maester" said Edric Baratheon.
Winterfell – 302 A.C
Nine days later…
"Home at last" thought Beric in relief as he rode through the gates into the courtyard with Shadow and a dozen Stark Guards by his side.
To his surprise he was only met by Talisa who was holding onto a bundle of blankets in one hand and the hand of his Daughter Leyla in her other hand.
She looked up at him and sent him a warm smile.
"Your Father's here" said Talisa softly looking down at Leyla.
Beric dismounted his horse and walked towards them.
Leyla let go of Talisa's hand and ran towards her Father.
Beric smiled and knelt down wrapping her in a hug.
"Your getting big now" said Beric softly as he held her into him.
"I missed you Papa" said Leyla softly.
Beric smiled and gently kissed her forehead.
"I missed you too my little angel" said Beric softly before he stood up and picked her up.
He made his way over to Talisa giving her a quick kiss.
"I missed you as well" said Beric softly.
Talisa smiled and slightly opened the blankets revealing a baby boy who could not have been more than a moon old at most.
He had steel grey eyes and tufts of dark brown hair.
"Meet your Son, Eddard Stark" said Talisa softly.
Beric looked down at his Son and smiled.
"Our Son Talisa, our second child" said Beric softly.
He locked eyes with Talisa who was looking at him with a wary look in her eyes.
"As far as I am concerned, you are Leyla's Mother" said Beric softly.
Talisa smiled and gave him a longing kiss before chuckling as Leyla started to grab at Beric's growing beard with him having not shaved in many moons.
"Get that thing shaved off, it does not suit you at all… too wild, and it tickles" said Talisa amusedly.
Beric chuckled.
"I happen to like it" said Beric.
Talisa chuckled.
"Come on… lets go back inside" said Talisa.
Beric smiled and walked back into the main keep by her side while Shadow followed them.
"Your Mother and the others left four days ago… she said something about speaking with the King about your banishment, a harsh punishment if truth be told" said Talisa.
Beric sighed.
"I could care less about going back to Kings Landing if we are being truthful… I would rather be here with you and our children, as a family" said Beric.
Talisa sighed.
"What he did to you was unjust… many who remained in the North were outraged when they heard, including our Queen" said Talisa.
Beric sighed.
"I did warn him, lets just hope he listened to my warning" said Beric.
The small family walked through the castle for the next ten minutes before they entered Beric's chambers.
Once Talisa had sat down on the bed with Leyla and Eddard, Beric pulled the legitimization scroll out of his pocket.
He broke the seal and handed it to Talisa.
"A reward for saving the King's life" said Beric.
Talisa unrolled the scroll and read it.
Once she had finished reading it she glanced at Leyla before looking back at Beric in shock.
"And this is true, he gave her the Stark name?" said Talisa in shock.
Beric nodded as Leyla turned to look at them in confusion.
He saw the curious look in his Daughters eyes and leaned towards Talisa's ear.
"We will finish this discussion later" whispered Beric softly.
Talisa sighed and nodded.
Kings Landing – 302 A.C
Two days later…
Edric Baratheon was sat in his private Solar signing scrolls with Ned, Yohn Royce and Gendry when there was a knock at the door.
"The former Princess is here Your Grace" said Jonothor Karstark from outside the door.
"Send her in" said Edric Baratheon.
The door opened and Minisa walked inside clutching her hands together in a nervous manner.
Edric Baratheon gestured to the seat in front of him.
"Sit" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
Minsa looked at him with wary look on her face before she slowly sat down.
The room was silent for a few moments before Edric Baratheon poured her a glass of wine.
He slid it towards her but she refused.
"It has been rather difficult deciding what to do with you… and your children" said Edric Baratheon.
"Do not hurt them" said Minisa quickly in a fearful voice.
Edric Baratheon sighed.
"Do not presume me to be so cruel as to harm a child, but what we do with you presents a problem, you are the former Queen, you helped murder my Father and steal his crown" said Edric Baratheon.
"I had nothing to do with your Father's death… I hated the fat fool but I did not kill him" said Minisa bitterly.
"Nevertheless, something must be done about you… and after much thought and discussion I have made my decision" said Edric Baratheon.
Minisa straightened up.
"And what is your decision… Your Grace?" said Minisa stiffly.
Ned straightened up.
"You will marry the Kings Brother… Gendry of the House Baratheon, the Lord Of Storms End and Lord Paramount Of The Stormlands, once your Son reaches the age of six he will be sent to Winterfell to foster with House Stark, once your Daughter reaches the same age she will be sent to Dragonstone to foster with Princess Daenerys Targaryan, the two will end their fosterships after their sixteenth name days" said Ned solemnly.
"You cannot take my children from me, you have no right" said Minisa in shock.
Edric Baratheon sighed.
"You cannot get off lightly for what you did, you will be allowed to write to them and have some supervised visits… but you will marry my Brother, and your children will be fostered away from you for a time" said Edric Baratheon.
Minisa remained silent for several seconds.
"The only other option is that you join the Faith as a Septa… and you will never see your children again" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
Minisa wiped her eyes and looked down at the floor.
"Fine" said Minisa bitterly.
Edric Baratheon nodded.
"Take her back to her chambers… the wedding will be in a fortnight" said Edric Baratheon.
Gendry walked around the table to take Minisa's arm as she stood up but she shook him off.
"I can find my own way back just fine" said Minisa icily.
Gendry took a step back from Minisa as she marched over to the doors and left as quickly as she could.
Edric Baratheon drank some of the unattended wine that Minisa had refused to drink.
"Have we had any word from the Queen?" said Edric Baratheon.
"Only that they have left Moat Cailin… they are expected to arrive in Kings Landing four weeks from now" said Ned.
Edric Baratheon sighed and stood up.
"I believe it is time for court, is it not?" said Edric Baratheon.
Ned bowed his head and followed his King out of the chambers.
Kings Landing – 303 A.C
Four weeks later…
"What you have done to my Cousin has the Northerners angry with you" said Visenya.
She was sat on the bed in Edric Baratheon's chambers feeding Orys from her breast while her Husband paced the room rubbing his forehead in frustration.
"He betrayed my Sister, and my Father's memory… he gave his word that he would marry her, and he broke it for the sake of some foreign healer he barely knew" said Edric Baratheon quickly.
"And she dishonoured his Daughter, ridiculed her to his face, just because he laid with another woman before they were to be wed, how many other Men have done the same?" said Visenya frostily.
Edric Baratheon sighed.
"She is my Sister… what kind of a King am I if I do not punish the man who shamed her?" said Edric Baratheon.
Visenya scowled.
"And your own Father shamed my Mother for years, he claimed to love her yet he dishonoured her many times" said Visenya bitterly.
"And what… does that make what your Cousin did to my Sister acceptable?" said Edric Baratheon bitterly.
"No… but a just punishment is one thing, to banish him from the Capital is another thing all together, I want you to reconsider what you did, for me if not for yourself" said Visenya flatly.
Edric Baratheon sighed and walked towards her.
He sat down next to her.
"What would you have me do instead?" said Edric Baratheon wearily.
Visenya sighed.
"He has already apologized to your Sister, and she is married to another now… is that not the end of it, can you not cancel this stupid banishment?" said Visenya.
Edric Baratheon sighed and remained silent for several seconds before nodding.
"He is your Cousin… I guess I can make an exception" said Edric Baratheon.
Visenya smiled and stroked his arm.
"Good… now Lady Stark has no reason to ask for the same favour, and I can guarantee she would have been far less kind about it, even if you are a King" said Visenya softly.
Edric Baratheon sighed and pressed his head into hers as they looked down at their Son and Heir.
"How is your Brother coping with his new Wife?" said Visenya.
Edric Baratheon sighed.
"Well enough from what he told me… says she spends her days with her children, he only sees her at meals and at night" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
"I still cannot believe you made him marry her" said Visenya icily.
Edric Baratheon took her hand in his.
"I needed her wed to someone I trusted… someone I knew would never betray me no matter what she said or did to him" said Edric Baratheon.
Visenya nodded in approval.
"And your other Sisters?" said Visenya.
Edric Baratheon sighed.
"Lyanna does not write to me, she has always hated me, no doubt thanks to her Mother… but Myrcella is happy at High Hermitage, as is Cassana" said Edric Baratheon.
With the late Lord Gerold Dayne of High Hermitage having no children of his own the castle of House Dayne's cadet branch was given to Edric Dayne.
Visenya sighed.
"I hope she can be happy with her life" said Visenya.
"Me too, she and Cassana were always too kind for a place like this" said Edric Baratheon.
Visenya nodded.
"Orys will be unveiled to court tomorrow, and recognised as our Heir" said Edric Baratheon.
"And what of the High Septon?" said Visenya.
"What about him?" said Edric Baratheon.
Visenya sighed.
"We were married in the eyes of the Old Gods… the High Septon will refuse to acknowledge our Son as our trueborn Heir… or even that we are married in the first place" said Visenya flatly.
Edric Baratheon scoffed.
"If he wants to remain as High Septon… he will not spread such filth, or we will find another High Septon" said Edric Baratheon.
Visenya let out a small smile as they sat together planning their future.
"We are the King and Queen now… its time to build our dynasty, the dynasty of House Baratheon and House Targaryan" said Visenya softly.
Edric Baratheon smiled and kissed her softly.
"Our dynasty" said Edric Baratheon proudly as he looked down at Orys Baratheon.
The next day…
Edric Baratheon was sat on the Iron Throne while Visenya was sat on a cushioned chair to his left.
She looked every bit the Queen she was meant to be dressed in a red and black southern style dress with a silver coronet resting on her head.
Ned was stood on Edric Baratheon's right while Barristan Selmy and the rest of the Kingsguard were stood in a line at the base of the steps leading up to the throne.
The entire throne room was silent as the Riverlords made their way towards the Kingsguard with scornful looks on their faces.
Edric Baratheon straightened up.
"My Lords… the time has come for you to swear your fealty to me, and to choose your new Liege Lord" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
The Riverlords remained silent while some nervously glanced around the throne room at the sea of bitter faces from the Northerners and Stormlanders.
"Have you made your decision yet?" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
The Riverlords remained silent for a few moments before the young Lord Willam Mallister stepped forwards.
He was around 15 years of age and stood at around 5'10 with short brown hair.
"House Mallister of Seaguard has been elected as the new Lord Paramount Of The Trident, by a unanimous decision" said Willam Mallister.
Edric Baratheon nodded.
"Kneel My Lord… swear your fealty to me and I will acknowledge you as the Lord Paramount Of The Trident" said Edric Baratheon.
Willam Mallister remained silent and knelt down.
"House Mallister hereby pledges the fealty of the Riverlands to his Grace King Edric Baratheon, sworn to answer when called upon, your enemies are our enemies now, I swear it by the Old Gods and the New" said Willam Mallister in a defeated voice.
"And you swear that House Mallister will not break faith with the Crown, for as long as you live" said Edric Baratheon.
Willam Mallister bowed his head.
"House Mallister… is glad to be of service to the Crown" said Willam Mallister flatly.
Edric Baratheon nodded and dismissed the Riverlords.
Ten minutes later they repeated the process with the Westerlords who had chosen Ser Addam Marbrand as the new Warden Of The West.
As Edric Baratheon dismissed them Daenerys Targaryan walked up to Visenya and leaned down into her ear.
"The Dornish party have arrived Your Grace" whispered Daenerys Targaryan.
Visenya nodded and looked at her.
"Find Rhae… tell her she is needed in the Throne Room" said Visenya quietly.
Daenerys nodded and stood up straight before walking away from her Queen Niece.
Visenya leaned towards Edric Baratheon and informed them that the Dornish Party were expected to arrive shortly.
Half an hour later…
Visenya and Rhaenys looked down at the Dornish Party who were looking at them with quiet disdain.
The party consisted of nearly 20 armed Dornish Men surrounding Princess Arianne Martell and her younger Brother Prince Trystane Martell along with a few Dornish Lords and Ladies.
They came to a halt in front of the Kingsguard and remained silent for several moments.
"Do you know why you have been called to Kings Landing?" said Edric Baratheon.
"Because you are hoping that Dorne is willing to forgive the deaths of its people that you killed" said Arianne Martell bitterly.
"Dorne does not forget so easily… nor do we forgive traitors" said Myria Gargalen bitterly as her gaze landed on Arthur who remained neutral.
Edric Baratheon sighed and turned to Randyll Tarly who was stood next to Visenya.
"Bring them in, and the bodies as well" said Edric Baratheon.
Randyll Tarly stiffly bowed his head before turning around and leaving the throne room.
Edric Baratheon pulled a sealed scroll out of his pocket and stood up.
"Ser Barristan" said Edric Baratheon as he walked down the steps holding onto the scroll.
Barristan Selmy turned and took the scroll from Edric Baratheon.
As Edric Baratheon walked back up to the Iron Throne Barristan Selmy handed the scroll to Princess Arianne.
She unrolled it and read it before looking up at Edric Baratheon with a bitter look on her face.
"Dorne will not stand for this injustice" snarled Princess Arianne.
Edric Baratheon sat down on the Iron Throne looking down at her.
"Your family helped murder my Father and take what did not belong to you Princess… House Martell will not escape punishment for such crimes" said Edric Baratheon.
"You should count yourself lucky… Riverrun is deserted and Casterly Rock is nothing put a pile of burnt rubble, and the families that held those castles have been cast down like the traitors they were, House Martell could easily suffer similar consequences" said Visenya icily.
"You would have us bow to traitors?" said Princess Arianne spitefully glancing at Lady Ellaria Dayne who was stood with Arron and Lysanne Dayne to the left side of the steps.
"We would have you bow to those that put their vows to their King above their vows to their Liege Lords" said Visenya.
"Out of respect for your heritage you will be allowed to retain your titles of Prince and Princess of Sunspear… but you will owe your fealty to House Dayne of Starfall now, from this day until the end of time" said Edric Baratheon.
Princess Arianne snarled.
"And you think that Tywin Lannister as a hostage is enough to make us kneel to you?" said Prince Trystane icily.
"Our knees do not bend as easily as you think" snarled Princess Arianne.
Edric Baratheon sighed.
"There is more to discuss… when my men return with the rest of our offer" said Edric Baratheon.
The Throne Room fell silent once again as they awaited the arrival of the prisoners.
Twenty minutes later…
Randyll Tarly and a dozen of his Guards returned to the throne room.
With them were Tywin Lannister along with Tyene and Sarella Sand who were being restrained by four Guards while the other eight were carrying two dark wooden coffins.
Tyene Sand was 18 years of age and stood at 5'6 with short dark brown hair and tanned olive skin.
Sarella Sand was 15 years of age and stood at just over 5'0 tall with long shiny dark brown hair and a soft face.
The Guards placed the coffins at the feet of the Martells while Tyene and Sarella Sand were guided into place next to the coffins.
Princess Arianne snarled.
"Is this your offer, fealty in exchange for the lives of my Cousins?" said Princess Arianne.
"We are willing to return the bodies of your Brother and Uncle… as a gesture of good faith, Tyene Sand and Tywin Lannister will be given to you if you bend the knee" said Visenya.
Princess Arianne straightened up.
"And Sarella?" said Princess Arianne glancing at her younger Cousin who was looking down at the ground with a sad face.
"Will remain here and serve Princess Rhaenys of House Targaryan as a handmaiden, to keep Dorne in line" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
"To serve a traitor who betrayed her Family" growled Prince Trystane.
Rhaenys Targaryan took a step towards them.
"Your Father cast me out of Sunspear… as far as I am concerned you stopped being my family the day you betrayed me" said Rhaenys Targaryan spitefully.
Princess Arianne snarled as the room fell silent once again.
She glanced at Sarella Sand and scowled.
"Fine… but Dorne will not forget this insult" said Princess Arianne bitterly.
Edric Baratheon sighed.
"Bend the knee… and you can go, with what you were generously given by the Crown" said Edric Baratheon.
Princess Arianne wasted no time before kneeling and bowing her head.
"On behalf of my Father… Prince Doran of House Martell, Prince Of Sunspear, I Princess Arianne, of the House Martell, do hereby swear fealty to House Dayne of Starfall and to King Edric of House Baratheon, our enemies are your enemies, to answer when called upon, from this day until my last day… I swear it by the Old Gods and the New" said Princess Arianne flatly.
Edric Baratheon stiffly nodded.
"I accept your oath of fealty Princess" said Edric Baratheon stiffly.
Princess Arianne stood up straight.
"You can go" said Ned solemnly.
Princess Arianne turned on her heel and stalked out of the throne room followed by her Brother and some of her Men.
Edric Baratheon turned to Jonothor Karstark and nodded his head.
The Northern Kingsguard pulled his knife out and cut the ropes binding Tyene Sand's hands together.
She immediately rushed to her Sister wrapping her in a hug as more of the Dornish Guards dragged Tywin Lannister away and picked up the two coffins containing the bodies of Prince Oberyn and the former King Quentyn.
After several moments Tyene Sand gave Sarella Sand a fierce kiss on the forehead.
"Unbowed, unbent, unbroken… never forget that Sarella, never" said Tyene Sand reassuringly.
Sarella Sand choked as tears started to pour down her cheeks.
After a few more seconds Tyene Sand was forced to let go of her Sister and leave with the rest of the Dornish party.
Edric Baratheon sighed as they left.
"Has the new Grand Maester arrived yet?" said Edric Baratheon wearily.
Ned turned to him and bowed his head.
"He arrived this morning Your Grace" said Ned.
Edric Baratheon nodded.
"Have him report to my chambers" said Edric Baratheon.
"At once Your Grace" said Ned dutifully.
Edric Baratheon nodded and turned to face the throne room again.
Later that night…
Margaery was stood near the doors leading to the balcony with a glass of Dornish Red in her hands.
"How did they die?" said Margaery bitterly.
Jon sighed.
He was sat on the bed dressed in his nightclothes stroking Ghost behind the ears.
"Who?" said Jon.
Margaery sharply turned to face him.
"You know who I am referring to?" said Margaery bitterly.
"It was war Margaery" said Jon in a weary voice.
"Do not give me that bullshit excuse Jon… tell me how they died, now!" shouted Margaery.
Jon sighed and turned away from her.
Margaery walked over to him and forcibly grabbed his chin turning him to face her.
"Tell me now!" shouted Margaery.
Jon frowned before pulling her down to sit next to him.
He remained silent for several moments.
"Garlan died at Riverrun… one of the Direwolves got him" said Jon flatly.
Margaery frowned.
"And my Father… and Willas?" said Margaery sadly.
"I am not sure how your Father died… I just remember Lord Umber holding his head up for all of us to see" said Jon.
Margaery wiped tears from her eyes.
"And my Brother?" said Margaery sadly.
Jon sighed.
"He came after me outside the Red Keep… and I killed him" said Jon wearily.
Margaery froze up before she turned away from him.
Jon placed his hand on her shoulder before she shook him off.
"Margaery… it was either him or me" said Jon remorsefully.
Margaery scowled.
"And that makes it okay does it?" said Margaery bitterly.
Jon sighed and took her hand in his.
"No… but that is the nature of war, you kill your enemies or they kill you, I would not be here right now if I did not kill him" said Jon sadly.
Margaery sighed and remained silent for several moments.
"Look at me Margaery" said Jon.
Margaery slowly turned to face him with tears in her eyes.
Jon wiped the tears from her eyes and kissed her softly but she did not return his kiss.
"I have loved you for many years… I did not want to kill him, but I did what I had to do to survive, to get back to you and our children" said Jon.
Margaery slowly wrapped her arms around him as he kissed her again.
"I missed you every day I was not with you… and it only made me long for you even more" said Jon softly.
Margaery wiped her eyes and kissed him again as his hands came up to her shoulders.
"We have not been together as man and wife since we were reunited… I know why you shied away from me, given what happened to your family… but I love you, can we be together again Margaery, please?" said Jon softly.
Margaery locked eyes with him and nodded after a few seconds.
(Smut begins)
Jon slowly started to untie the straps of her dress and kissed her.
"I love you Margaery, I always have" said Jon softly as he pulled her dress down to her hips exposing her chest.
Margaery started to untie the laces on his tunic.
"I love you" said Margaery softly.
Jon lowered his head to her breasts as he cupped them in his hands firmly massaging them.
"I am sorry for what happened to your family" said Jon.
Margaery pulled his head up to hers and kissed him.
"I know… and one day I will stop blaming you for their deaths" said Margaery softly.
Jon kissed her before pulling her to her feet.
Margaery sighed as he slowly removed her dress, smallclothes and shoes before stripping down himself.
The two stood opposite each other with lustful looks on their faces at the sight of each others nakedness.
Jon suddenly stepped forwards and picked her up bridal style.
He stood still and kissed her softly as she wrapped her hands around his neck.
"You know how much I have missed this?" said Jon softly.
Margaery smiled and kissed him as he carried her over to the bed.
"Just as much as I have missed it" said Margaery softly.
Jon laid her on the bed and kissed her as he moved on top of her.
Margaery leaned up and captured his lips with hers before groaning as she felt him slide into her.
"I really missed this" groaned Jon as he slowly slid into her until their hips were touching.
He brought his hands up to her breasts and squeezed them as he started to pull out of her.
"And I love you so very much" whispered Jon as he started to take her at a slow teasing pace.
"No whores while you were away?" moaned Margaery with a teasing smirk on her face.
Jon kissed her.
"No whore would ever feel as good as you" said Jon huskily.
Margaery wrapped her legs around his waist keeping him close to her.
"I enjoy being inside you far more than I ever enjoyed being inside any whores, you feel so much better" said Jon as he kissed and licked at her neck.
Margaery wrapped her hands around his back holding him into her even more as he took her slowly increasing his pace with each thrust.
(Smut ends)
The next day…
Edric and Visenya Baratheon were sat on the bed in their chambers with their Son Orys when there was a knock on the door.
"Forgive the interruption Your Grace, but the High Septon is here, he is asking to see you" said Robar Royce dutifully from outside the door.
"That was sooner than expected" said Visenya as she stood up picking up her Son in the process.
"Shall I send him away Your Grace?" said Robar Royce dutifully as Visenya placed Orys in his crib at the foot of the bed.
Edric Baratheon stood up.
"No, send him in Ser Robar" said Edric Baratheon.
After a few seconds the door opened and the High Septon walked inside before bowing his head to Edric Baratheon.
"Your Grace" said the High Septon.
He was a short man in his late 50's standing at around 5'9 tall with shot white hair and matching sideburn style white facial hair. He was dressed in white robes with ribbons of gold along the front and the arms similar to the clothing choice of other Septons.
"How can we help you High Septon?" said Edric Baratheon.
The High Septon straightened up and puffed his chest out before he gazed over at Visenya who was looking at him from her position by Orys's cot.
"I would like to speak to the King in private My Lady" said the High Septon.
"My Lady?" said Visenya sounding offended.
"You are aware that you are addressing your Queen High Septon, and that the proper title is Your Grace?" said Edric Baratheon sternly.
The High Septon turned to him in shock before he looked back and forth between Edric and Visenya Baratheon for several moments.
"But… the Faith has no record of your marriage Your Grace" said the High Septon in shock.
"That is because we were married at Moat Cailin before my Husband marched south High Septon… under a Weirwood Tree, in the eyes of the Old Gods" said Visenya.
The High Septon suddenly looked mortified as he turned back to Edric Baratheon.
"You were wed before Heathen Gods, the King cannot be married before false Gods, it is Sin" said the High Septon in shock.
Visenya growled as Edric Baratheon walked towards the High Septon.
"High Septon… you are aware that the Queen and the Queen Mother have followed the Old Gods from birth, and that by insulting the Old Gods you are insulting the way they were raised" said Edric Baratheon bitterly.
The High Septon spluttered realising the nature and the consequences of his words.
"But Your Grace, a wedding before those false Gods is unacceptable in the eyes of the Seven, and without a wedding before the eyes of the Seven, your marriage is not recognised by the Faith, and that would make your Son a bast-" said the High Septon.
"Ser Robar" said Edric Baratheon cutting the High Septon off.
The door opened with Robar Royce stood in the doorway.
"Your Grace" said Robar Royce eyeing the High Septon who looked at him in shock.
Edric Baratheon locked eyes with the High Septon.
"My Son Orys Baratheon is the Heir to the Iron Throne High Septon, and you were about to call him a bastard, I could have your head for saying such words" said Edric Baratheon bitterly.
The High Septon dropped to his knees.
"Forgive me Your Grace, it was wrong for me to say that" said the High Septon in a panicked voice.
Edric Baratheon looked down at him with a flat look on his face.
"Put him in a cell for now Ser Robar… hopefully that will teach him not to spout treason against the Queen and a Prince" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
The High Septon pleaded and complained as he was hauled to his feet by Robar Royce and dragged out of the chambers.
Once Robar Royce and the High Septon were gone Visenya walked towards Edric Baratheon.
"Was that wise… imprisoning the High Septon could turn the smallfolk against us" said Visenya warily.
Edric Baratheon stiffly nodded.
"He insulted you and our Son, such treason would usually be punished… though I am sure a few days in a cell will be enough to make him change his mind" said Edric Baratheon flatly.
He turned to face her and managed a small smile.
"Come… the Small Council meeting will begin in half an hour, we must prepare for it" said Edric Baratheon.
He shouted for Visenya's handmaidens Wynafred Glover and Talia Forrester to come into the room to help Visenya dress appropriately for court.
Winterfell – 303 A.C
The next day…
Beric dismounted his horse as he arrived back in the courtyard followed by Ser Rodrik and the half a dozen House Stark Guards who had accompanied him to an execution.
As one of the stable boys led his horse towards the stables Maester Lewin approached Beric with a scroll in his hands.
"From Kings Landing My Lord" said Maester Lewin handing the scroll to Beric.
"Thank you" said Beric as he looked down at the scroll which was sealed with a Direwolf sigil.
He unrolled it as Maester Lewin walked back towards the main keep.
Beric
My Husband has admitted that it was a mistake to banish you from Kings Landing due to his anger at his Sister being shamed. As such he has agreed to waive the punishment of banishment and allow you to travel to Kings Landing if you wish to do so.
Queen Visenya Baratheon
Beric smiled at his Cousins signature before rolling the scroll up.
He walked back towards the main keep.
Five minutes later…
Beric opened the door leading into his chambers and walked inside.
Talisa was sat in a rocking chair by the open window gently rocking Eddard who was asleep in her arms.
She turned to face him and placed her finger to her lips.
"Shhh… he is asleep" whispered Talisa.
Beric smiled and slowly made his way over to her.
His smile widened as he traced his finger over Eddard's cheek.
After several moments of silence he knelt down next to Talisa and placed the raven scroll in her hand.
"Take a look" said Beric.
Talisa readjusted her hold on Eddard before unrolling and reading the scroll.
Once she had finished she turned to Beric with a warm smile on her face.
"So you are no longer banished from Kings Landing?" said Talisa softly.
"It appears that the King has changed his mind" said Beric softly.
Talisa leaned across and gave him a gentle kiss on the cheek.
"Good… it was too harsh a punishment for too small a thing" said Talisa softly.
Beric pressed his head into hers.
"Have you heard from Arya?" said Talisa.
Beric let out a small chuckle.
"Mother is insisting that Arya should choose a Husband… trying to appeal to the fact that she would be missing out on a very important part of being a woman" said Beric.
Talisa smiled.
"Maybe I should talk to her… show her the joys of being a Mother" said Talisa softly.
"Maybe you should… from what I gather she will be coming back with Jon and Margaery, I do not think Kings Landing suits her" said Beric.
Talisa nodded.
"Somehow I am not surprised… with all that I have heard about your Sister" said Talisa.
Beric chuckled and knelt next to Talisa looking down at their Son with pride and joy.