Author's Notes

Hello, We have reached the end of the Tourney at Harrenhal arc. Next will be a bit of a mix of aftermath and the start of the Mando Civil war arc.

To the Guest reviewer that is complaining about pacing, I don't care. I like long methodical stories where the pacing is slower. This fic already is half a million words so you knew you were getting into a trek when you clicked on here.

To everyone else, happy April and please stay safe out there.

The light hit her face gently as Lysa began to wake. Opening her eyes she found that she was in a large comfy bed in a sublimely decorated room. It wasn't her husband's bedroom, it was completely different from the style of the chamber she had last been awake in. This was her room, she knew it. A place for herself, to be hidden away and out of sight.

The young woman sat up in her bed, taking in what had happened last night. Her wedding, then the conversations she had. While still unsure as to her future, Lysa did feel more secure. It had been made very clear that everything going forward would be up to her. That now she would out of the shadow of her sister, and now her failures or success, her good or bad choices, they were all on her. It was a freedom she had never felt as a girl that had always been compared and placed next to another.

Stepping out of bed she explored the room she had been given, simple luxuries were neatly placed everywhere and Lysa could hardly believe that anyone would go to this extent for her. It really was like she was living like a queen. The clothes that had been set aside for her, the exquisite furnishings that made up her bedroom, and other smaller things all spoke to her. She could get used to this. Picking up a handcrafted comb, taking in the fine carvings and even a few jewels in it she smiled. Yes, even if she was nothing more than a wife in only name she could grow to like this.

Lysa however was startled as the door suddenly opened and came a gorgeous woman she had vaguely felt like she had seen before. Maybe at some point in the tourney or in the city. Light blond hair that covered her ears and an almost glow to her entire being. Lysa's mood dropped, this had to be one of the women that had her husband's heart. Only someone so beautiful as this woman could do such a thing. And now she was here to make sure Lysa knew where her place was. But instead of a cold sneer or a mocking laugh at how plain she was, the woman looked to her and gave Lysa the warmest smile she had been given in weeks.

"Are you feeling alright dear? Any nausea or lightheadedness?" The woman asked as she walked over to Lysa and began checking her for any sign of sickness. The young woman just froze in shock at just how nice this woman was being. "I swear, that idiot can be so infuriating sometimes. Letting Saarai handle something like this… of course she'd do this."

"Uh…" Lysa didn't fully understand what the woman was mumbling as she finished checking over the much more confused girl.

"Well at least the sedative was mild enough at least." She sighed as she pulled away and moved over to a table with a platter of covered dishes and readied fruit. It took a moment for Lysa to realize what had just been said, that she had been drugged. The memory of the tea and how sleepy she suddenly felt towards the end of her night time conversion came back to her. "Naraiz at the very least understands that he has to make up for his Tsân, this smells great."

The smell of cinnamon, cloves, and roasted nuts filled the room once the woman pulled off the tops of dishes revealing a handcrafted meal fit for a queen. All thoughts that had been in Lysa's mind faded as her stomach thought for her. She hadn't eaten much of her dinner last night with how she had been feeling during that dinner. And now smelling this… a very unladylike growl came from her tummy.

"Sorry." Lysa squeaked as she held her traitorous stomach but felt even more disarmed by the understanding and friendly smile the woman gave her.

"No need, come and eat. You must be both emotional and literally exhausted from last night." The woman said but looked confused when Lysa blushed and began shaking her head.

"No-no-no… we didn't do anything. He never touched me I swear." This woman was being so nice, Lysa didn't want to make her jealous and ruin that. But once she said these things the Tully girl remembered that if the wrong person heard that then she and her husband would be in big trouble. The budding panic in her was cut short at the melodic and amused laugh that came from her visitor.

"Have no fear young one, there is not a soul in this keep that would betray its master. You can always speak freely here." The woman walked over and led Lysa over to the table of treats and nourishment as she spoke. Lysa didn't know how but every movement that this radiant being made relaxed her and made her feel at ease with her troubles. She did nothing as she was sat down and given a large plate of food that looked and smelled irresistible. Given her hunger and the insistence of her company Lysa tucked in right away. It tasted amazing, like nothing she had ever had before. Was this food from across the Narrow Sea or possible something from Darth Nagash's homeland? Lysa didn't know nor care at the moment. "Hm, it's good to see you still have your appetite." The beautiful sound of her visitor's voice knocked on Lysa's mind like a bell.

"Um, I don't want to be rude but… just who are you?" Lysa already had a clear idea who she was. Her husband's true love, a woman that she could never compete with and would always be in the shadow of. No matter where she went, Lysa would always be second place.

"I am Fay. Advisor the idiot you married last night in that sham of a wedding. Its my job to teach the Acolytes the Light Side of the Force and to make sure Naraiz doesn't stray to far into the Dark Side." She was hiding it… no… there wasn't a single drop of malice in her. Lysa silently chastised herself, making assumptions and turning to the worst case scenario. While she didn't understand much of what Fay had said, Lysa could understand that this wasn't a lover of her husband. "I wanted to make sure you were doing okay and I am sure that you were not told everything you need to know."

"No… I know. I'm only Darth Nagash's wife to the people out there. But he really doesn't want anything to do with me." The words of Saarai came back to her, that she had time to change into whoever she wanted to be and time to choose what she truly wanted. Both were so ambiguous ideas that they felt so far away and the only thing that felt real was that her husband wanted her to be as little in his life as possible. The only things now that gave her any real warmth in her, was the earlier sense of freedom from her sister's shadow and the exquisite warm food in her belly.

"Listen, I have traveled far and wide, seen many cultures and ways of living. I have known societies that shun marriage entirely and others that take even more seriously than here. Let me tell you, what you are feeling now is not uncommon. You are not the first to be in a loveless marriage but you are least in one with a man that isn't heartless. He's… really bad at showing that right now." There was some anger in her voice but it bordered more on annoyance. Lysa continued to enjoy her fabulous meal as Fay went back and froth between lambasting Darth Nagash and making excuses for him. Yes, this was not a woman that Lysa had to be afraid of stealing away her husband. This was someone she could trust. "Anyway… what I meant earlier is I wanted to make sure that you know what you need to know about Harrenhal or whatever Naraiz renamed this place."

"Oh… that makes sense." Important people, big projects, who not to talk to and who can be trusted. The running of the keep and the duties she would be expected to perform. Now that Lysa thought about it… these were things that she never had been told of prior.

"The first thing you specifically should be aware of is… uh…" For the first time since entering the room, Fay looked uncomfortable and unsure. "… Naraiz's children." Lysa dropped her spoon at hearing that. Children. More than one. Bastards. That had been one solid fear that she had been sure would not be real as she could recall in that secret between Darth Nagash and her father he had said he could and would prevent them.

"He has… children?"

"Yes. Currently eight, from four mothers… though one was not of his choosing and was does out of request by a faithful subordinate who he recklessly gave a request to." Eight bastard children. Eight bastard children that could threaten any she had. Eight living and breathing reminders that she would never be truly in her husband's heart. Eight reasons to always- "Lysa."

"What?" Lysa felt hands on her shoulders and with the sound of Fay's voice snapped out of her darkening thoughts.

"I know it's a lot to accept. But sorrow and despair will not lead you to peace and happiness. You fear everything right now, fear of these children, fear of the future, and fear that you will be shallowed up in it all. fear only ever leads to suffering, both for you and those around you." Fay grabbed ahold of Lysa as she began to tear up, the images of all the demons of the seven hells mocking her for even hoping to find happiness welling up in her mind. How could she ever find her place here if there wasn't a place left for her. Leaving behind a shadow only to be thrown in a pit, instead of being overlooked and compared to not even acknowledged at all. "Your feeling so small now, but it's not true Lysa. You are enough, you don't need anyone else but those that make you feel at peace." And just like that, Lysa felt so much of the weight that had been on her heart lift.

"Why… why would say something like that?" No one had ever said something like that. That she was enough. That she didn't need to judge herself based on what everyone around her thought. She gripped tightly onto Fay's robe, clinging like it was a lifeline.

"It is my purpose in life, I am merely a agent of the Light Side. I felt your pain and fear, such things only lead to darkness. If I can save someone, I will." This feeling of a protector that believed in her. It felt different than her father or uncle, both accepted that her sister was the more favored even if they loved both of them. But this woman, all were equal and she would come to them if they ever needed saving. Lysa sunk into the comforting embrace, letting the glow of Fay entrap her entirely.

"She hasn't been seen since yesterday? This morning wasn't turning out much better than last night. This was final day of the tourney and the culmination of a lot of planning. Here Rhaegar would royally… fucking damn I'm so tired at this point I can't even laugh at my own puns. He's gonna fuck up and give Lyanna the blue rose thing and set off a chain reaction of events leading to Robert sitting on the Iron Throne. That was expected, but what wasn't was a Acolyte vanishing.

"Yes, last we were able to gather she went to the Godswood and scared off the servants preparing the wedding scene. But after that she vanishes." Hearing Quinn's business as usual tone relaxed me a bit. Between the stuff with Lysa and my current doghouse situation with Lyarra, I was needing a bit of his no nonsense reality to sober my stress.

"Nira is bathed in the Dark Side… it's unlikely this could be her doing but not something we should discount. Find Mel and have her travel to the Three Eyed Raven, just to be sure." I leaned in my chair at that head of the meeting table. It was just me and Quinn as everyone else was still performing their duties. I wasn't about to let the final day of the tourney be a letdown.

Once this was all done I was heading to space, I don't know when Rhaegar plans to kidnap, as that was only way that was happening in this timeline, Lyanna as even the canon was fuzzy on the exact time. It happens in the next year which is only a few months away and around the same time as Brandon's wedding. That date hasn't actually come to light yet but some murmurings my Nightsister spies in the city picked up say that its going to be announced today. In any case, The timing is going to be a bit of a crunch, if I want to do what I want with the Mandos then I need to leave at a exact time. It's very likely that the first half of Robert's Rebellion I won't be on world.

I have already given Rathari several different plans to account for what would happen. The most likely one of which was that everything played out as I had painstakingly plotting it to. Rhaegar kidnaps Lyanna, Brandon and Rickard die by Aerys hand, Jon Arryn raises the banners and things play out like they should. I then use the excuse of contested loyalties of to the crown and to the Riverlands, whom should give early support to the rebellion to remain neutral. By the King's own orders I don't have standing armies and if everyone thinks I'm just sticking to my keep and city then the Sith aren't much of a threat given our numbers. The only key thing that I need to do is return before the Battle at the Trident. I have plans for Rhaegar and that all involve him not dying so easily. There's some wiggle room for any unexpected complications in the wider galaxy but I don't like cutting so close.

"There is one more matter I feel you should be aware of my lord." I lazily turn my head back over to Quinn. "A former peer of Melisandre was arrested yesterday and is sitting the Black Cloak's cells, a man by the name of Moqorro."

"Oh really, how interesting. I'll visit him later today once I have done my mandatory King handholding." I chuckled and Quinn gave me a knowing half smile. He stood up, bowed, and left the room leaving me to my thoughts. Though not entirely as alone as he might have thought. "You can come down now."

"And here I thought I had improved." Jaesa dropped from the ceiling, having been concealing herself in the Force but not well enough for me. She landed gracefully onto he table in front of me, her head raised and I frowned at her continued use of the half mask to cover her lower face. Palpatine was going to suffer.

In the clash of Sith Lords' apprentices, Sidious had gotten too good of a shot at Jaesa and sliced off her lower jaw. Huldrak had done his best to fix her up, but the result was still quite noticeable. She had both scars and an obvious artificial lower jaw that while decently looked like real flesh, upon closer inspection was undoubtably fake. It moved silted and had a shine that flesh did not have.

"You know you don't need to cover up. Everyone is on your side on this." There was not a single person here that thought badly of how Jaesa looks and she knows that. Fuck she ahs the power to confirm that on a level that is cheating. But still, she keeps on wearing some sort of mask.

"I know, and yet I chose to do this." She scoffed and turned away before hopping off the table.

"Fine. What do you want?" I dropped the issue knowing she wouldn't change on it so easily. I simply had to keep telling her that she didn't need to cover up and no one found her disfigurement scary or ugly or what have you. We all still cared about her and I and the kids still loved her.

"Another shot. I know you are heading back up there and I want to go with."

"Absolutely not. I'm not risking Plagueis getting another chance to kill you. Ever since he found out about your powers he's been dead set on killing you at any cost. The fact he was willing to expose his apprentice to us say it all." There was no way I was letting Jaesa off this world until I made damn sure that that fucking Muun was in the ground. Plapy would be taken care of eventually but given his personality, the fact he won the fight between them will only serve to make him cocky when it comes to Jaesa.

"Come on I can do it, I can…" Jaesa was interrupted by the sound of the door opening and Quinn coming through again. Jaesa sent him a death glare but otherwise went silent. Then a glare was shot at me before she quietly stormed out of the room knowing I wasn't going to budge as much as she wasn't going to on the mask thing.

"Thank you for that Quinn. But did you come back, it's not like you to forget something." I was thankful for his interrupt to the brewing argument that was coming but I don't think Quinn of all people returning after they leave is a good sign. Just what went wrong now.

"I am simply following the orders you gave me my lord." He said with a knowing smirk as he held the door open for two very interesting people to come in.

"Ah yes… I did say that didn't I." I had told Quinn that if ever someone from Yi Ti ever makes a appearance in my city that I be notified. "And what do I owe the pleasure of visitors from the far east?" There were two of them, a older man and a young woman. The man was dressed fine and in much an expected Asian inspired fashion, though not pinning to one area. As far as I could tell, the main resemblance was Chinese. The woman however was in plainer clothes and unlike the man and not a single bit of jewelry on her while he had many bits and bobs. She spoke a bit to him and then he began speaking in his native tongue which to me sounded closer to Korean.

"The pleasure is mine Master of the Pulls of Star and Moon, the west is filled with nothing but disappoint and savagery but I could find none in your hold." The woman spoke for the man in clear common tongue/galactic basic. The common tongue was used across the lands as a sort of all purpose language, the fact it was the original language of the people of this world was forgotten. Now, only cultural purist or tribal people only use their cultural tongues.

"Thank you, I do try. But I must respectively ask what brings a man of such clear high standing of Yi Ti to my humble city?" As I spoke the woman spoke to the man and I could sense that he was eating up my praise both in the ego stroking way and feeling relieved that was not looking down on him due to his origin.

"It is anything but humble, your city rivals that of the three great capitals of Yi Ti. It is in the honest opinion of I, Magistrate Su Por, that it is here that Yi Ti may find a true peer in majesty." He was only half grandstanding; he didn't fully believe that what I had done was as good as his homeland but I could sense that a part of him did think so. That unbiased side that couldn't help but be in awe. The woman had me concerned though, she was utterly beaten down. All she was was a mouthpiece for this man, only the barest hint of emotion stuck out in the Force and that was just fear of messing up. "I have come here to offer a standing invitation to Yin to meet with the God-Emperor Bu Gai. He has heard of your powers and that you are favored by both the Star and the Moon and hopes that you may help him in the defeat of the traitorous Moonlight sorcerer lord Chai Nru."

"That is a unexpected offer, but one I must decline… for now. Please understand that I mean no disrespect. As you have no stake in the west, I can tell you the truth. Soon these backwater kingdoms I find myself will be in turmoil. I shall be using this my advantage, it is a time sensitive matter. I'm sure you understand." There was absolutely no risk in telling him. I could easily gather that this Su Por had not a single care for Westeros or even Essos for that matter. But as his attendant spoke to him his face never moved from the school stern calm of a wise old man. Once she was done he looked to be in thought then nodded and began speaking.

"I do quite understand, and this would only help us. You being in a better position would only make a meeting between yourself and our glorious leader all the more smooth. With no worrys of home, you can better focus on our need." He and the woman bowed and again, all I could sense from him was a bit of disappointment but understanding. This was interesting meeting and not one I had expected so soon. "I shall return to my lord with news that focus should be given to the other usurper. I, and the golden empire of Yi Ti await your arrival great master of Star and Moon." Another bow and with that they left.

"Was that wise my lord, committing to a side of their civil war?" Quinn asked once we had waited sufficient time for them to be escorted away.

"I did no such thing. Only promise to meet with the leader of one of the sides at a unspecified time. The man was competent, but to be sent here of all places suggests that he isn't well seen in his liege's courts. So I doubt his report upon his return will be taken seriously." I mulled over the conundrum that was Yi Ti. I knew little about it, only what little was in the lore from my past life and what I had been told here. Suffice to say I wasn't all that concerned with the Far East. By the time that I have got Westeros and Essos under my thumb, little else can be done to stop my world conquest. Even more so if I tip the scales with some off world assistance.

"Shall we send word the Nightsisters, perhaps they could send in agents to scout the situation?" Quinn offered but I shook my head. Yi Ti was a problem for future Naraiz, this little meeting was helpful but not pressing.

"All of our focus is on Westeros. My political and military philosophy has evolved since the old days. Secure your Homefront, that is my new motto. First we hold our immediate area then start thinking further out." Quinn gave a small head nod of acknowledgement before leaving me once again. Now I was truly alone… strange… it feels so weird being a former introvert that was just perfectly at home being alone as compared to now when it's annoying.

"You do remember that you're not supposed to win this thing right?" Thoren joked as Cayle got off his horse having just won his first match in the joisting tournament. They and their immediate circle of friends were all relaxing in the tent set aside for the sole Sith participating in the joist.

"Oh come on, I know what I'm doing." The rider of the Sith smirked as he sat down and took a freshly poured mug of ale. He had won handily, his skill and experience in the craft on full display. Thoren and the rest of the Neophytes knew that Cayle could easily win the whole thing, but Darth Nagash had been very clear that Prince Rhaegar was to be the victor. "It just sucks that the pompous jackass has to be the one I have to lose to."

"It's the plan Cayle, Darth Nagash always has his plans." Jadith reminded him, every single one of the Neophytes knew that the Master of the Rule of Three plotted and schemed to gain the iron Throne. They didn't how but trusted him or feared him enough to go along with it. The fac they knew about what was above helped considerably. "But more excitingly, what do you guys think about Miana, Aymee, Mysa and Nathar heading back up again? I'm so jealous."

"He said we'd all get a chance to go back up. Pretty sure its because we're all still kinda famous right now." Karne rolled his shoulders as he remembered a little moment when he passed through a village in the Vale. He was greeted with the village holding a small feast for him due to all his work in outright slaughtering the mountain tribes. Him and the rest of the Neophytes were gaining small and large glories and if they suddenly vanished that would draw attention. The four that were going back up were some of the lesser known, except Nathar but he was mor infamous than famous.

"I still have too much work to do here to be thinking about up there." Thoren grumbled, he still had not found his father despite his investigatory work and rooting out the smuggling rings all throughout the Riverlands and Westerlands. "We have a duty to…" Thoren and the rest of the Neophytes all stopped their speaking as they sensed someone begin to approach the tent they didn't recognize. And soon enough someone did enter their tent, only instead of a possible spy like they thought it was Catelyn Tully.

"Excuse me, I'm sorry to intrude but have you perhaps seen either Benjen or Brandon Stark?" The young woman sounded fretful, like she had been looking all day for the Stark brothers. The Neophytes looked to each other, unsure exactly what they should say. They knew where Benjen was, meeting with members of his Assembly Bloc but not where Brandon was.

"Why don't you ask Eddard, I believe I saw him in the stands when I entered onto the field." Cayle offered hoping that the Tully would leave them alone. They had nothing agaiest the young woman but she simply stifled their conversation due to the possibly of overhearing something she couldn't know.

"I had already asked him but he also doesn't know. I came here hoping that you might know where Benjen is and he might lead me to my betrothed. He's supposed to be part of the jousting and I wanted to wish him good luck and give him my favor." The boys on in the tent remained silent as they had heard rumors that Brandon Stark had not been too faithful to his betrothal. However Jadith, either because she didn't know or did, perked up and walked over to the worried woman.

"He has to be around here somewhere, let go find him. Thoren, you'll help us?" Krane and Cayle both chuckled as they watched Thoren follow the two girls out.

"And the prince has unseated lord Royce!" The announcer cheered as so did the crowd for her husband. Elia clapped only as much as she thought social convention demanded. In truth she wished that she didn't even have to attend the jousting, she never found it all that exciting. She much rather be spending time with her brother or possibly taking another train ride. The rumors were that a rail line would be made between Harrenhal and King's Landing in the coming year.

"Well don't you look as miserable as I feel." Hearing the voice of Darth Nagash come as he sat beside her and startled Elia. She had been all alone with a Black Cloak standing by the door to the royal booth set at the edge of the jousting ring, it had been a awhile since she had been given one of the Kingsguard for her personal protection. "From one person trapped in a loveless marriage to another, you do a bad job at hiding it."

"Is it that obvious?" She didn't even deny it nor was she surprised to hear him say these things. They were separated by height and the cheers from the crowd now getting excited for the next set of match ups now the first round was finished, the only person that could possibly overhear them was the Black Cloak.

"It's the smile, it's strained and your eyes are quick to look away from him. Though… maybe I'm just too good at picking out women like you. I made it a habit in my younger days." He spoke with a drained expression of past memories that could bring a feint smile in another moment but not this one. Elia could understand, she had been at the ceremony and it had been one of the most uncomfortable weddings she had been to. Even her own had more light and hope of possible love. She sorry for both of them, that poor girl did not deserve this fate and he clearly was not comfortable with any of it.

"It must be difficult, marrying one but loving another." She knew about him and the queen, in a the few moments she had caught them at the ends of their meetings she had seen real love in their eyes. Longing and enjoyment of each other's company and more than just base lust. Though there was plenty of that. Elia only wish in life was that perhaps she could have a small piece of that.

"Now's who's speaking from experience?" He lightly chuckled and the princess of Dorne blushed and looked away but did not deny it. How could she, how could anyone say they did not feel something for their savior. And a savior that believed them to be stronger than anyone else would say. "But enough about our misery, let's talk about two that actually seem happy. Where is your handmaiden I wonder?" He asked before pointing over to the larger viewing box for the great houses that were attending.

Looking over to it there Elia's eyes widen in shock at seeing her friend Ashara sitting with the Stark family, particularly Eddard Stark and looking quite happy as she spoke with him. It warmed her heart to see her friend so happy with a man, after what happened she had become timed and skittish around the other sex. Only being vaguely comfortable when in large crowds whom she could feel safe in that no one would try something with so many eyes. And even then she was still fragile.

"And up next we have the Sith Cayle Caswell vs Ser Blount, The Porcupine Knight." The announcer called out though Elia wasn't really paying attention as she was too happy for her friend to care.

"Caswell better win, porcupines are too close to hedgehogs for my liking." But she did pay attention to the grumblings of her companion. Leaving behind the sight of Ashara laughing at something Eddard had said, she looked at Darth Nagash inquisitively. "No."

"Oh, but why Darth Nagash, does the great master of the Sith have issue with hedgehogs?" He stared her in a way that only made her laugh it was so comically threatening.

"Stop."

"Is this truly what it takes to displease you? There are stories of your calm confidence in the face of insults and vitriol. But the mention of a cute little animal upsets you." Elia found it all so adorable. That one of the most powerful, arguably the most powerful, man in all of Westeros could be set off by such a silly thing.

"If you must know, I gained the title of Emperor's Wrath before gaining a Darth title. As such I never got one and so behind my back those with one would call me Darth Hedgehog due to… circumstances." While she did wish to ask what those circumstances were, Elia was smart enough to know how far she could push someone. He was already doing more than what she would expect him to do for anyone else by tell her this. "It's not funny."

"No… no it's not." She said trying to stifle the laughter but a few giggles were able to escape.

"And the Sith rider has won ladies and gentlemen!" The announcer cheered after Cayle Caswell dismounted the other knight in a spectacular show of skill. "Next we have the Ser Barristan Selmy of the Kingsgaurd vs Ser Crakehall."

"People be better happy that we worked extra hard to get everything set up so that way we could have a good jousting tournament in one day." It was the second round of a challenges, all day there had been jousting to get to these and then final two before the championship joust. Normally to get as many as they were doing it would take several days of jousting.

"Did people do things like this in your homeland?" Elia asked as the field was prepared once again for the two knights to try and claim their glory. Elia had a feeling the poor man from the Westerlands was soiling his trousers at the thought of jousting his opponent.

"No, we didn't have jousting. Killing and scheming were the old Siths' hobbies. For all their claim that they unlike the jedi allowed themselves to feel emotions… they were damn selective in it. And usual chose the shit ones." A frown crossed his face as he spoke and crossed his arms are the bitter memories. But then a smile came back as he looked back to her. A flutter of feelings burst in her chest at this. "I going to make damn sure that we do better."

"I'm sure you will." Elia held her hands tightly in her lap. What she felt was all sorts of wrong. He was now married, and already had a woman that he loved. But… if her brother could juggle the feelings of two women then maybe it was possible. Aegon did it as well… though that didn't turn out so well but that could have also been the incest. But thankfully for her, the mere thought of her brother seem to summon him and his lady loves.

"Dear Naraiz and dearer sister, unexpected to see you both here." Both Elia and Darth Nagash looked back to see Oberyn and his two lovers enter into the booth. Elia had only met them both a few times but knew that they were happy and made her brother even happier, as well as kept him a little in line.

"Oberyn, I think you can take over watching por Elia here. I've been gone for too long and let's hope the king hasn't burned anyone for some silly reason while I left him. Princess, a pleasant talk." With that Darth Nagash stood up and with a one last charming smile walked away. She heard him give a fairly warm greeting to Ellaria and short curt one to Dabai.

"That man will never change." Oberyn chuckled as he and his lovers walked over to the seats that were supposed to be filled by the other members of the royal family. But all of them were off doing anything else due to both parents being not on polite speaking terms with the prince. As for Viserys, he followed his father like a loving puppy.

"Oh I wish he would, would make thing's so much simpler." Dabai complained as she kicked up her feet on to the railing of the viewing box. Elia was at times confused by the woman, not only because of her mysterious origin but also her mannerisms. She often dressed like a man, never wearing a dress, was stand offish to everyone but Oberyn and seemed actively shun Westerosi culture. But it was without any doubt to anyone that met her that she loved Oberyn and Elia felt she was a positive influence as she kept his recklessness down considerably.

"Well I disagree-"

"What else is new?"

"… ahem… I disagree. Darth Nagash makes life more exciting. Change is good, especially for us ladies. I don't think anywhere outside of Dorne I have seen more empowered women walking the streets." Ellaria Sand, the newest addition to Oberyn's life. Elia had only met her once before this day and… she certain makes a impression on people. Even now as she sat in her brother's lap she was the definition of sensual confident woman.

The four of them continued to watch the jousting, the two paramours shot light barbs at each other while the siblings enjoyed each other's company. They cheered as Arthur Dayne won his match with some knight from the Reach and then watched carefully as Brandon Stark attempted to win back the glory Rhaegar had taken from his brother days before. However, it would not come to be.

"What a show folks, Prince Rhaegar has just beaten the Wild Wolf of the North. He is on a fast track to winning both the Melee and the Joust. Next will be the Rider of the Sith Cayle Caswell and Ser Barristan Selmy of the Kingsguard" The announcer called as the crowd cheered.

"How much money did you bet on the Sith kid?" Dabai asked as she rocked back and forth on her seat. It did annoy Elia slightly that she showed no decorum, while she was fine with being causal… Dabai simply lack manners.

"None, everything on the prince." Oberyn smirked with that look he had when he knew more than people around him. It was a look that Elia knew well growing up with him. She thought about asking him but… if it was what she thought it was then she wanted to see it play out. For no other than reason than she didn't particularly care who won but wanted to see what might have her brother so invested.

They watched as the Kingsguard and the Sith go several times at each other. Both matched well and the crowd was on the edge of their seats to see just who would win. And finally it came to a split second flick of the wrist and Cayle Caswell managed to break through Ser Barristan's defenses and dismount him. Everything was silent before a roar of cheers and applause came. Then another as the Rider of the Sith dismounted himself and helped the respected knight back onto his feet.

"Outstanding, a great show of skill and sportsmanship. Cayle Caswell will be moving on the final joust of the tourney. His opponent shall be the victor between the Silver Prince and the Sword of the Morning." The crowd eagerly awaited the match, the sun was beginning to set and the sky just barely beginning to turn red. The day had been long but exciting to everyone and many would be considering this to be the greatest end to one of the greatest tourneys in all of Westeros' history.

Once the field and riders had been readied, everything went silent. The joust was watched with rapt attention as one after another, Rhaegar and Ser Arthur rounded the field. With each pass they drew closer and closer to deciding fate. But fate had plans… or someone did… and on the fifth pass between them, Ser Arthur's lance broke upon the prince's shield followed by the Kingsguard being knocked off his horse.

The masses immediately went wild with cheers, that their beloved prince had won such a pitched battle. And now it looked like he would actually win both the Melee and the Joust of the tourney. Such a thing would be recounted throughout all of history and clearly marked the prince as gods sent blessing to the realm. That once his father's reign was done, the new king Rhaegar would bring in a new era along with all the advancements the Sith were bringing. It would really be a new Valyria here in Westeros.

That was what they were all thinking Elia guessed. But she knew better. She had seen the seeds of madness in her husband already and knew there was nothing more that he hated than the Sith. Once he took the Iron Throne, there would be a reckoning. One she did not think the realm could survive as people chose between the progressive Sith and old power of the Targaryens.

"Here it comes." It was a feint whisper that came from her brother. One that Elia wasn't sure that Ellaria had heard as she was too focused on the upcoming joust. But he knew something. A full hour passed but the hype of people had not died and neither had Oberyn's knowing smirk. Elia looked to the field and could not be more interested in just what was about to happen.

"Dear ladies and gentlemen, it has been my pleasure to be your announcer for this spectacular joust. But now it all comes to this. At this final hour we come to the match that will be marked forever in history. Between the Dragon Prince Rhaegar Targaryen and the Rider of the Sith Cayle Caswell!" The applause could be heard throughout the city. The people were ready to see history made. To be part of a moment that would be talked about for generations to come.

Elia watched as both of the riders' horses trotted onto the field with their masters ready. Rhaegar on a beautiful stead, the finest that Westeros could offer. Clad in silver plated armor with bright red rubies glistening in the sunset light. Cayle Caswell on the other hand rode a larger Dothraki stallion that was as wild as it was powerful but listen to its master faithfully. Unlike many, he did not wear plate armor but a simple breastplate and leather armor with the strange circle symbol that was of the Sith Order.

Everything went quiet once again. The start of the joust would be marked by the dropping of a flag pole. The suspense built as the two stared each other down. Then, finally the flag was dropped and the two began to speed toward each other. Elia clutched her hands tight in her chest as time seemed to slow down. This would be decided in one moment. She couldn't possibly think that this would be like the last two matches were they went on for longer than any other. No. between these two there would be one chance for absolute glory.

The sounds of hoofs beating the dirt below echoed through the stadium. Everything crawled a utter stop for everyone as the two riders met. Their lances passing each other as they moved to hit their marks. Elia could swear that at the very start of this, the Sith's lance was aimed at Rhaegar's heart and a deep part of her wanted nothing more than it to pierce through plate and flesh. But no. The tip of the Sith's lance slipped to far to the side and slid across the curves of the prince's plate. Meanwhile, the dragon's talon drove true that day and hit Caswell's shield and utterly smashed it to pieces. The lance pushed further and dug into the Sith shoulder, pushing him off his steed. The last thing anyone could understand was the sound of him hit the dirt. Minutes passed until the biggest roar of cheers yet echoed across the stadium and could be heard in every corner of the city.

"He's done it! He has done it! Good people of this tourney, it is my honor to name prince Rhaegar Targaryen your champion!" The announcer's spirit was infectious as people continued to clap and cheer as attendants came out onto the field to both help Caswell and grant Rhaegar the prize of the Crown of Love and Beauty.

Everyone looked to Elia as Rhaegar rode toward her, she smiled at the attention and knew that all of this was fake but she still had to keep up appearances. The love that the crown of blue roses represented was not at all between her and the prince but the common folk could be allowed to know that. After such a momentous occasion, she couldn't possibly ruin their day by seeming ungrateful. But then… the unthinkable happened. Rhaegar passed her by.

The excited energy in the air that had been so warm and hopeful was smothered in that one moment. Now the people were confused and started to get scared as their prince trotted away from his wife and toward the viewing box containing the members of the great houses. Elia herself… was dumbstruck. She knew that her husband didn't love her, she had long accepted that. But to do this, so publicly was a grave insult to her and something she could never live down. This was made even more worse by whom he gave the crown of roses to.

When people saw him make his way to the viewing box of the great houses, they thought that maybe he would crown Cersei Lannister. A token of apology and appreciation to the Lannister family for all his father had done to them. It would have been seen as political but acceptable as Cersei was unmarried, betrothed, and not being actively courted by anyone noteworthy. But no. Oh that is not what he did.

The Crown of Love and Beauty landed in the lap of Lyanna Stark.

"They are all going insane right now." I chuckled as I could feel the collective what the fuck in the Force. So many people were feeling the exact same thing that pretty much every Force sensitive could feel uneased.

"Yeah, you did all you could to psych them all up during the joust and then the bastard dropped the ball so damn hard it's traumatized people." Pierce commented form behind as we walked through the halls of the Black Cloaks headquarters. The tourney had ended and people were returning to their hotels or even back to their homes even in the night. I'm sure that the Starks are doing the latter. Rhaegar had done exactly as I knew he would. And now the chaos of his actions would be felt.

"For the next few months I want you to prepare the men for what is coming." Pierce gave a quick yeah as we continued to the last item of the day. An unexpected one but one that needed to be address. I would be spending about nine more days here on Terra before heading out to collect my Mandalorians. Then I would leave Terra in the hands of my most trusted allies. The only thing they needed to do was to pull off my Brandon scheme and stall for time regarding anyone's request that the Sith or Dol Guldur do anything in the civil war. Only Talzin has a complete picture of the events I want to take place and her and a cadre of Nightsisters will be working hard to make sure they happen. "Now, let's see this Red Priest."

Walking into he jail cells of the Black Cloaks I see half of them stuffed to the brim with drunks and bloodied men and women. And the other half empty but for one man. Hmm… seems he's already done something to scare the men into treating him like he's possessed. Moqorro looked exactly as he had been described in the books. Scary older black guy with yellow face tattoos. But whatever, I can deal.

"So you are the man that has convinced one of the Lord of Light's most faithful to turn her back to him. I cannot say you impress me." He was kneeling with his lowered and his eyes shut. I could feel a probe in the Force, should have expected that a Force Sensitive out of him. He doesn't feel nearly as Dark as Melisandre did. But then again she ate people's souls and used some pretty damn dark powers. Asshai must be just bathed in the Dark Side.

"If you think that I'm showing all my cards at all times you're crazier than I expected." I reply as I set up a sound barrier around us. The Red Priest said nothing as I began pacing in front of him. My own Force Probe gave me far more than I expected. Either he didn't know how to defend himself from such a attack or was on purpose just that open. "You are very sure of yourself."

"I have seen very few in this world that would give me pause. I have been blessed by the Lord of Light, given strength and power to do his works. The dabbling of petty sorcerers do not- oph…" Without any direct movement I threw him across his cell, sliding him along the floor and into the bars that made up his cage. Continuing, I dragged him up by the throat to the celling while forcing his body into the bars.

"Seems you're right. If your defenses are this weak then mustn't have met someone worth remembering." I held him up, the drunks and brawlers behind me were all pushing each other to be as far away from what was happening as possible. Pierce had his arms crossed and didn't seem to be too concerned, this was basic interrogation. Hell, this was playing with kiddy gloves. Moqorro on the hand was shocked and confused as to why this was happening. Underneath the panic of the assault there was a deep rocking of his belief of superiority. The man grasped at his throat and I found that I had given him a good show of force and dropped him back on his butt. "I cannot say you impress me."

"I'm getting flashbacks to our younger day sir." I chuckled at Pierce's comment, it was indeed like a disapproving Sith Lord disciplining a up jumped acolyte who thought themselves far stronger than they really were. Usually a former slave that just got a taste of real power.

"I… I don't understand. Is this the power of the Others?" I rolled my eyes at the man's attempt to rationalize what just happened. He looked up to me with a mix of a fear and anger, yes… I had shaken him and wounded his pride.

"Not at all. But I doubt you would listen to me." The Lord of Light was just another garden variety Force Cult. A common occurrence in primitive cultures that have Force Sensitives in them. This one was a Dark Side leaning one which was ironic given who their devil was. But from what Melisandre has told me and what I have seen, R'hllor was just a name that had been given to the tempting pull of the Dark Side and brought about by the discovery of using fire as a aide to Force Visions. "Pierce, you can let him go."

"What?" Both Pierce and Moqorro said together.

"Go. Report back to the rest of your Dark Side madden cult. I look forward to the day when you are capable of challenging my Order, who actually know what they are doing." Even as young as my order was, it was far more capable than the Red Priests and Priestesses. While they fumble and stumble onto powers and lore, the Sith have been mastering the Force for centuries. And I am bringing that wisdom and knowledge to these lands. Even as influential as these fire obsessed zealots in Essos, that matters little here in Westeros.

"I never knew that the most faithful of us could be turned against the Lord of Light, but it happened. I never knew that there could be such shadow in the last land where dragons roamed. But I will always know that R'thllor will always be never understood by those who see power as the absolute above wisdom." Ironic, given that's exactly what he did. This man must have used some power to extend his life, doubtful it's the same as Melisandre, but he's already pretty old now. So he's just like so many others that equate age to wisdom.

"See to it that he is escorted out of the city." I order Pierce as I make a mental note to tell Quinn and Melisandre that the infiltration of Essosi Red Priests into the local Essosi immigrant population could be a problem. Up until now the former slaves hadn't had any real contact with their homelands, a few dozen left to return to Essos but that was all. Now there was a possibility of an old authority that former slaves would still recognize targeting us. But now wasn't the time to think about that. It would take time for the followers of R'thllor to make actual move against us. The eve of rebellion was upon.

The stage was being set. Soon Rhaegar would make his folly and kidnap Lyanna Stark and send the Seven Kingdoms in civil war with his delusions. And at the end of it, I would come out as better.

"Please see to it that she receives my letter as quickly as possible, and that it lands in her hand and her hand alone." Rhaegar gave his letter to his fated love to the messenger he had entrusted his secrets to. This man was absolutely loyal, being a trusted and speedy courier for his secret collaborators in the past. The bowed as he took the letter and was off do his duty.

The prince closed the door to the secret abandoned tower that he had used many times as a secret base. It like others throughout the realm were small little bastions of his power, stocked with arms and money for his supporters to use. Outside was Ser Arthur Dyane and Ser Oswell Whent, guarding from any praying eyes. But inside, reading a few letters from their allies was Jon Connington.

"Forgive me your grace, but is this really what you want to pursue? Lyanna Stark? I can hardly see her as worthy of you." Had anyone else but Jon said those words, they would be flogged for such impudence. But the prince knew that his friend was only concerned for him. Overly protective. A fine thing for a confidant to be.

"It is as the gods demand. She is the Ice to my Fire and with us united we shall restore the glory of the Seven Kingdoms that my family has squander for several generations now." And beyond that, he would be the one to bring about a new Valyria as it was only right. Him, not a foreign witch who had designs above his station. He had the allies and the love of the people, first he would remove his father and the purge all the rot that had been allowed to fester for far too long. "With Lyanna comes her father and the whole of the North. While a more savage place, their armies are great and their warriors hardy. With them at our side, removing my father will be easy."

"But what of the Dornish your grace? And the Stormlands?" Rhaegar paused, the air in the tower turn stale quickly as there was no answer that came to relieve the possible danger posed by those kingdoms. Both were closer and far more quick to action than the North who would need to travel through the swamps of the neck or by sea. "Neither House Martell or Baratheon are pleased by this. I have heard nothing about Doran but that smile that Oberyn had when you gave the crown of love and beauty to Lyanna… it haunts me still."

"Dorne and the Stormlands will be handled. They are but two kingdoms vs the other five that will surely back me." His voice was even and without a hint of emotion. It was like he was discussing a dull fact and not an easily proven falsehood. But in Rhaegar's mind it was simple as the sun setting or the moon at night.

If one thought about it right, this was a blessing in disguise. Rhaegar would use the foolish retaliation of Dorne and Stormlands as a reason to remove House Martell and Baratheon as their regents. Jon could be the new Paramount of the Stormlands and some other loyal House as Paramount of Dorne. No longer would they call themselves princes or princesses. Yes, this was for the better. Rhaegar would reshape the seven kingdoms as he saw fit.

Life was difficult for those that followed the True Way. Those that knew that Mandalorian needed to grow and become more than savage raiders and warmongers. To be honorable warriors with a code to live by. In a galaxy where the Republic was quick to see an enemy wherever it could, one had to either claw their way to the deepest of shadows or not flinch in the face of the light. Mandalorians needed to be the warriors they were but with honor and dignity if they were to survive. And Jaster Mereel knew this better than anyone.

"Mand'alor, we are getting a communication from an official republic source." The current leader of the True Mandalorians snapped of a rare moment of pensive deep thought. The years since the destruction of the Death Watch had given him some time to breath and in that he had grown a little more aware of just how small their little struggle was in the grandness of the galaxy.

"Is it a request or a demand?" He asked as looked to the communications officer stationed on the bridge of his flagship. For the being they were looking to gather funds and clans to support them, the fight with the Death Watch was done and now they had to look to the pacifist New Mandalorians. Jaster could respect someone wishing to find the clam of peace and stability but such a person was not Mandalorian and this distinction needed to be made to those that currently held their spiritual homeworld.

"A request." A job then, the Republic had bigger things to worry about than them and so was indifferent to the True Mandalorians. That was what he needed them to think. It wouldn't always be that way and so Jaster knew the best way forward was to solidify his hold onto all of Mandalorian society and then prove to the Republic that they were no threat that needed to be eventually taken care of. Tiptoe the line of being just useful and prickly enough to dissuade any ideas of removing them from the galaxy entirely.

"Put them through." A holo-image formed at the front of the bridge before Jaster. A basic republic clerk, as about as standard as you could get.

"Greeting Mandalorian, I am Kortre Penplu. I am the Alderman of the Korda system. Recently we have been experiencing issues with the native Pre-Space Flight population of one of our worlds. We are a minor system and so the greater Republic has not deemed this issue worth handling personally and has granted us some funds to solve the matter internally." There was a knot in his gut hearing the story of the job. But that could just be the absolute indifference the man had toward the native population of a world the Republic claimed as its own. Or it could be just his instincts telling him that this smelled like a bad job. But… they needed the money. What was worse was the possibility of rumors forming that him and his movement were cowards.

"Exactly what we would be required to do?" Mercenary work was all about getting what the client wanted. Do it and do it right. Only way to do that was to have all the facts.

"A presence of soldiers hopefully is all that would be needed. To show the locals that we are capable of bringing in more forces should they get uppity. If things get rowdy then maybe some force would be needed." Yeah, that's it. The sick feeling in his gut was just for the way this man saw the natives of the world. But work was work and if it was nothing more than a show of force and maybe so crowd control then that was perfectly fine.

"I'll be rerouting you to my second in command, you can speak with him about payment and any other details. But we'll take the job. It will take roughly a little under a standard galactic week for us to get there from our position." With that and a curt nod the image was cut out. Jaster sighed and hoped that once this job was done, something more tasteful would come along. Preferably one that paid big and would get him the glory needed to bring around the other clans to his cause.

Author's Notes

And here we are. Jaster the daddo of Jango. What will happen now that Naraiz will step into that big mess? And what about Rhaegar and his... plans?

Reviews

ol-11jrw - The moment where Obara joins her father I assume happens around this time frame, I did forget that she was old enough so I'm using that excuse. Obara might or might not be showing up really really soon.

Rapidnoob - yes

RonaldM40196867 - that's so far off into the future but yes and it wouldn't be set in the same universe

Reads too much - The wedding was supposed to be uncomfortable. It was for everyone. Yes, the Mandos are here.