TDC: Missing Scenes and What If Scenarios
By
Arrow4131
And
Leilani972
Chapter 14: Change is Coming
Summary: As they deal with the aftermath of Jon Arryn's trial, the Lords of the Vale now have to face many challenges. Many covet the position of Lord Paramount and as the shadows of a civil war loom over the Vale, Lyonel Corbray has to deal with some family secrets threatening to be revealed because of a Mockingbird.
This work is inspired by The Dragon Cub by Alperez16. Each chapter is a missing scene from key moments in the original story and a chance for us to answer a few what-if questions.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
The Red Keep, 298 AC
Lord Lyonel Corbray
Jon Arryn was dead, and Lyonel couldn't bring himself to feel something other than contempt.
He'd thought he couldn't despise the former Hand of the King more than he already had, but he had been proven wrong at the trial. Jon Arryn's lies had been exposed and the reveal of what had happened during the Rebellion had all the court shaken. All those lives lost, all the families torn apart because of the greed of a few men who made themselves seen as righteous.
Jaehaerys Targaryen has swung the sword, as his Northern uncle had taught him, and Lyonel was glad that he did, for no one had suffered more than the young king and his family because of Jon Arryn's machinations.
He couldn't believe that Jon Arryn went as far as to lie to everyone knowing that Lyanna was married to Rhaegar to fuel his ambitions. He wasn't the only one shocked by this turn of event, as some of the Knights of the Vale demanded to see the letter written by Lyanna Targaryen to Robert Baratheon before they bent the knee.
Ser Richard Lonmouth had obliged and they were able to read the proof, as he had been able to before the trial. The reactions to the contents of the letter were not at all surprising for Lyonel. Those like himself were absolutely furious that their liege had lied to them for so many years, while those who had maintained their loyalty to Lord Jon were shocked, angry but also still feeling a sense of denial about the Falcon's knowledge of the letter. Thankfully, the denial was half-hearted so it was unlikely that they would cause any problems.
Lyonel was still uncomfortable at how freely they moved into the Red Keep as opposed to some Lords who had fought on their side. He had thought that he would have been sent to the Black Cells until they bent the knee to the future King, but it hadn't been the case. Instead, they had been brought to a dungeon and after just over a day in the cell, he and some other Lords from the Vale, namely Ser Albar Royce, Ser Symond Templeton, Lord Benedar Belmore and Lord Gilmore Hunter, had been released to their surprise.
"My Lords, you will be provided more suitable accommodations until the coronation." Ser Richard had said to them.
"Why? Why us and not the others?" Lyonel had asked.
"Several Lords of the North had vouched for you, my Lords. They said that you were compliant in the prisoner camp and had had a change of heart regarding our King. That you were willing to bend the knee to King Jaehaerys."
"We do," Lord Hunter had confirmed and the others had nodded.
"Then the King is willing to give you leave to enjoy his coronation as every other guest and spend time with your family."
"Our family, Ser?" Lyonel had gasped, his heart beating faster.
"Your brother is already here, Lord Corbray, as are your father, Ser Albar, and your sons, my Lords. They arrived from Gulltown three days ago with Lord Yohn."
"What about the others?"
"I don't think they are ready to follow our king. Unless you would vouch for them too?" Ser Richard had asked, arching an eyebrow.
Lyonel had looked at the other Lords. Part of him wanted to do so, to stand united as one as the Knights of the Vale were renowned for, but he shook his head with a heavy heart. The Master of Whispers was right. People like Ser Vardis or Lord Hersy were still struggling with the idea of Jon Arryn lying to them, and he couldn't risk the chance he was given for them.
"That's what I thought. Enjoy your time with your families and the coronation in a few days. We will speak later about the trial."
They had been led to a nicer part of the Keep and Lyonel had done as he had been told, spending as much time as he could with Lucas before the trial.
That his brother had come to King's Landing to see him had been a pleasant surprise. They had cried when they reunited, Lyonel more than Lucas admittedly, and he could still remember the joy he felt when he had held his younger brother in his arms.
They had talked all night about the battle and the aftermath, and Lucas had told him what had happened after Lord Yohn's almost trial at the Blood Gates. Morton had let Lyonel read the letter he'd received from Lady Anya relating the incident, but he hadn't realized the extent of the consequences until his conversation with Lucas.
"They banded together, the Waynwoods, the Royces of Runestone and the Redforts, and they spread the word of what Jon Arryn did before we heard from you. A lot of people didn't want to believe them. Lord Yohn's defection enraged the Lords, Harry most of all wanted him to be punished. He had called for the remaining forces to defend his uncle's honor and fight against the traitors, naming Lord Yohn explicitly. Thank the Gods, he is not the Lord Paramount yet, or we would be in a civil war."
"How did the other Houses react?"
"They were furious that Harry would ask more men knowing they had lost a lot, but they wouldn't risk the safety of their Lords or heirs who were taken prisoners. And they were even more furious at Lord Yohn. If he wasn't supported by all those great Houses, I would have feared for his life. Lord Grafton even suggested he had more protection for the trip to King's Landing, but Lord Yohn refused."
"What did you think of it? Would you have answered Harry's call?"
"I truly do not know. To be honest, I didn't care about who was right or not. I knew Lord Arryn's fate was sealed the moment I received the news that the battle was lost. I only wanted to hear from you and Lyn."
Lyonel's heart had broken as he'd heard the distress in his little brother's voice. He couldn't imagine what it had been for Lucas to wait for information to be delivered, but Lyonel could relate with the anguish he felt before he'd been able to write to him.
All of their sufferings could have been prevented if only Jon Arryn had been honest with them.
"Now the Falcon is no more…" he heard Lord Yohn murmuring sadly.
"My father died because of him. I will not mourn him." Lord Grafton spat.
"Oh, Gods!"
"What's wrong, Lucas?" Lyonel asked, alarmed at his brother's frantic voice.
"I just thought of something horrible. Elbert was with Brandon Stark when word spread of Lyanna's supposed abduction. Since Lord Jon knew the truth the entire time, that means that he let his own nephew ride to his death and never once warned him. That makes him kinslayer for all intense purposes!" Lucas answered with a look of horror on his face.
The rest of the lords all had looks of shame and anger at what they had just realized. The thought of them following a man who had allowed his kin to be murdered in order to further his own ambitions made Lyonel almost empty himself right there but he was thankfully able to hold it in.
"I don't think Jon Arryn had thought that Elbert would be executed. Nobody knew how far gone Aerys was nor did they think he would kill all those Lords and heirs. But I will not mourn that sad excuse for a man either!" he managed to say.
"But Harrold will," Lord Horton Redfort added dejectedly. "We may soon have a problem with him."
"How so? He's the heir to the Eyrie. With Lord Arryn gone, he is Lord now." Lyonel challenged. "That should be enough for him. That was all he wanted, after all!"
"They didn't wait for him to be there to do the trial." Lord Redfort answered. "He might take offence of the fact that Arryn had called for a trial by combat and had been denied."
"That's on him. If he wanted to fight for Arryn so much, he should have come with the others who were at the Gates of the Moon. Nestor came here in time, didn't he?" Grafton retorted.
"Lady Anya made him stay at the Eyrie. She wanted to wait for Morton to arrive so she could come and swear fealty to the King, and we all know how out of control Harrold can be without her around." Ser Mychel said.
"I hope she'll be able to curb his behavior, for the King will not take kindly a challenge coming from Jon Arryn's heir." Lyonel sighed.
"I doubt she'll be able to once he hears about Jon's fate. So they probably won't come at all to make sure Harry will not make things worse." Lord Yohn declared.
"Do you think King Jaehaerys will name him Warden of the East?" Lucas asked.
"He better not, or else the Vale will be lost to him," Grafton said.
"Who else would he name?"
"I think we will know soon enough."
Lord Grafton had been right in his supposition. The day before the Royal wedding, The Corbrays received word that they had been summoned for a meeting. Intrigued, they followed Ser Richard's envoy and joined with the rest of the Lords of the Vale. The Master of Whispers was also in attendance and started speaking as soon as everyone had arrived in the room.
"You must wonder why you've been summoned here, my Lords."
"I think we can guess it has something to do with the Vale," Lord Redfort said.
"Indeed, Lord Horton. Some of you already know, for you have talked with the King, but we wanted to inform you all officially. Lord Grafton has been named as the Vale Envoy in service of the King"
"Envoy?" Ser Vardis frowned.
"His role will be to speak of the issues the Vale encounters directly to the King."
"Isn't that the role of the Lord Paramount?"
"Sometimes, the Lord Paramount can't see everything. Take the example of the North. If it hadn't been for King Jaehaerys' interference, Wintertown wouldn't have been extended. It doesn't mean that Lord Stark doesn't manage things well in the North. An envoy can suggest things to the King that the Lord Paramount could not finance, or give another perspective on a delicate situation."
"The fact that Lord Grafton is a loyalist would also help should the Lord Paramount not do what the Kings want, wouldn't it?" Ser Vardis sneered.
"I think living fire-breathing dragons are much more helpful in that matter, Ser. Moreover, the King has eyes everywhere." Ser Richard smirked.
"What about the Lord Paramount?" Lyonel asked, feeling the tension in the room.
"King Jaehaerys had named me as Lord Paramount of the Vale and Warden of the East, and I humbly accepted the task," Lord Yohn declared solemnly.
"You? He chose a turn cloak and a deserter to lead the Vale?" Lord Hersy exclaimed with outrage.
"I find no fault in King Jaehaerys' judgement," Horton said. "Lord Royce had acted with honor by stepping away from a conflict that we should have had no part in, to begin with. Furthermore, a lot of people respect what he did, in all the Seven Kingdoms and the Vale."
"The Vale despise him!"
"Speak for yourself!" Lyonel countered. "I don't despise Lord Yohn. If anything, I respect him greatly and would be honored to follow him."
"That's not what you were saying when you were in the camp!"
"You're right, I won't deny that. But that was when I didn't have all the information that I have now. If I had known of Lord Jon's lies then I would've left The Trident with Lord Yohn immediately. Ask Ser Symond and Lord Belmore if they don't regret not following him when he asked them to leave with him!"
"We do," Ser Symond confirmed.
"I don't want this title. I've never wanted it. But a young knight at the Bloody Gate made me realize that we needed to uphold our knightly vows and to put the people first, before any desire or ambition. I am a Knight of the Vale and I intend to work on the betterment of the kingdom." Yohn said.
"And I'll support you on your work," Horton claimed firmly.
"So will I," Grafton said, standing up too.
Lyonel shared a look with Lucas and nodded before the two brothers rose in silent support.
One by one, the other Lords rose in turn, leaving Ser Vardis and Lord Hersy in an uncomfortable position.
"I know for a fact that Lady Waynwood is agreeable with this decision, even if she had raised the supposed heir of Jon Arryn." Ser Richard nailed.
"What will happen to Ser Harrold?" Vardis asked.
"The King will summon him shortly so he could bend the knee. Should he accept, then he will become Lord Arryn and rule over the Eyrie." Yohn answered.
"And should he refuse?"
"Then he will be beheaded, as it would be considered as an act of rebellion against the Crown." Ser Richard said simply. "The choice will be his. In the meantime, the King will wait for his answer before hearing your vows of fealty."
"Why do we have to wait for Harry to bend the knee?" Lucas frowned.
"Because his decision might push you to change yours."
Lyonel could hear the Lords muttering to themselves as he thought about what he just learned. Assuredly, Harrold Freysbane wasn't the best of them all. He embodied the arrogance of the Vale and everything that needed to change with the Knights of the Vale. But he was also a human being who hadn't seen the errors of his ways and who needed a second chance, just as he was given. He hoped that Morton's cousin would make the best decision.
"Lord Corbray, I would ask you and your brother to stay a few more, if you please?" Lord Yohn said, surprising him and Lucas as the others were leaving the room.
He frowned as he saw that Ser Richard closed the door after ensuring no one was spying on them.
"Is something the matter, my Lord?"
"As you know already, Lord Baelish escaped Riverrun with his wife Catelyn and has been sought by our men ever since."
"Yes, we are aware of that. Did you find him? Was he on my lands?"
"He has been spotted at Gulltown."
"Then what does it have to do with me or my brother?" Lucas questioned.
"During our research, we've found a journal listing all contacts Baelish had who… Let's say who owed him for the favors he gave them and who he was blackmailing. He had a lot of people in the Vale listed in this journal."
Lyonel felt dread rise and stared at Lucas who looked as bewildered as he was.
"Did you…"
"I would never associate with that rat! I swear!" Lucas exclaimed loudly.
"Ser Lucas was not the one who was listed, my Lord." Ser Richard intervened.
"I've never dealt with Littlefinger either, so it can't…"
He stopped in his sentence and the dread he felt expanded as the only explanation for their presence came to his mind.
"Lyn… It was Lyn, wasn't it?" he whispered, his head spinning.
"Lyn?" Lucas repeated. "He would never -"
"It seemed like he did, unfortunately," Yohn said apologetically.
"Why? How? He got everything he needed home. Father had made me set up an allowance to him, and I've always kept a look at his finances."
Richard and Yohn shared an embarrassed look and Lyonel's heart clenched.
"I told you they didn't know about that, Richard," Yohn said. "We shouldn't…"
"We have to tell them, my friend. When we capture Littlefinger and word gets out, it would cause more harm to their reputation, and we can't have anyone supporting you involved in a scandal of this magnitude."
"What? What is it?" Lyonel pressed as his younger brother got restless in his seat.
"It wasn't for the money that your brother got involved with Baelish, my Lord. And I'm very sorry to have to deliver this to you." Yohn started.
"If not for money, then why… Whores?" Lucas said in disbelief.
"If it were simply whores, then it wouldn't cause harm to our reputation, Lucas. What is it? What did Lyn do that Littlefinger covered for him?"
"Your brother had peculiar tastes, Lyonel. Very peculiar ones." Richard continued.
"Get straight to the point, Ser. I don't think I can handle more beating around the bush." Lyonel pleaded.
"I'm sorry, my Lord. It looks like Lyn was involved with boys hired by Baelish in his brothel. Most of them had disappeared after their encounter. Littlefinger had all the names and the dates written in his journal. There were also mentions of scars on some of them."
"Are you suggesting that my brother liked torturing boys?" Lucas exploded.
"Littlefinger is a lot of things, a schemer, a manipulator, but when it comes to his affairs, he documents everything. There is too much evidence to dismiss the possibility." Richard replied sadly.
Lyonel wasn't sure how to feel about what he had just learned. His brother had died before either of them had taken the chance to repair their relationship. That had been something he'd regretted during the time he was at the camp in the Riverlands. So he should be mourning Lyn and feeling great sadness. But all he could feel at that moment was anger.
He thought about the shame his dear father would have felt knowing that his favorite son had sold himself to Littlefinger in exchange for such unholy desires. He felt anger that Lyn had done things that will undoubtedly be exposed to light and greatly embarrass their house. And he was outraged that Lady Forlorn had been wielded by a man that he now knew for certain had been unworthy of it.
In all his anger, Lyonel wanted to hate Lyn. He wanted to disown him and strike his name from the family records and never speak his name again. He wanted to scream in anger and curse his name to the Seven Hells.
But he couldn't.
Despite his sins, Lyonel couldn't bring himself to hate his own brother. That didn't mean that all was forgiven and he could go right back to mourning him. He would never forget what he'd learned that day, but Lyn was dead and would never face the consequences of his acts in this life. It fell on Lyonel that his brother's mistakes didn't affect those still alive.
"What will happen to Littlefinger once you capture him?"
"He will be tried for all the crimes he committed against the Crown," Richard answered.
"And you fear he would try to blackmail us with Lyn's actions so we would get him away from his mess?"
"Exactly."
"Do what you must, my Lord, Ser. If you have to reveal Lyn's secret, do so, but that man shouldn't be allowed to breathe much longer."
"Lyonel! Are you mad?" Lucas exclaimed, horrified.
"We have to think about our House and its future. Littlefinger can sully Lyn's character all he wants, rather than helping him it will add more charges against him. Tell him that we know of his dealings and we will never associate with the likes of him."
"We will do our best to prevent him from saying anything about your brother, my Lords." Ser Richard promised.
"Thank you for letting us know," Lyonel said as his mind battled with his heart to keep himself from crumbling down.
"There's something else, something I wanted to ask you, Lyonel. I know this is not the best moment to ask anything, but I would like you to join my council."
"A council?"
"I plan to create a council with the Old Houses of the Vale."
"But, only your House and House Arryn…"
"Things will change, Lyonel. House Arryn is no more, and if Harry bends the knee it will not be a great house anymore. I wish to surround myself with people I can trust, and someone told me you could be trustworthy."
"Who told you that? Not that I'm not flattered, but after everything…"
"Lady Anya's son Morton had only good things to say about you in his letters to his mother… Listen. I didn't lie when I said I didn't want to be Lord Paramount. If King Jaehaerys had named Harry, then the plan was to petition for a great council of Lords to watch Harry and counter him if need be."
"And now that you've been named in Harry's stead…"
"I still like the idea of a counter-power. Did you see how divided we were just a few minutes ago? I will need all the help I can get in order to bring peace and stability back to the Vale."
"It will be a great honor to serve in this council, my Lord." Lyonel finally said, his head swarming with different emotions.
"As it will be mine to have you in it." Yohn smiled at him as they shook hands.
He was deeply touched to see how Morton felt that he was trustworthy enough to say a word about him to his mother. He was also moved by the fact that Yohn Royce would choose him despite all the things he knew about Lyn that could also be detrimental to what his new Liege wanted to establish. The fact that they were willing to give him a chance was overwhelming and Yohn Royce didn't know it yet, but at that moment he had found in Lyonel an unwavering ally in the years to come.
Lucas and Lyonel didn't talk much when they got back to their quarters. The weight of the reveal about Lyn was still too much for the head of the House and he didn't know how to bring it up with his brother. He cursed himself for not having seen signs of Lyn's behavior, then again they hadn't been close since the Rebellion so at that time the only thing he had monitored was Lyn's finances. He knew that Lucas was thinking the same and tried to bring the subject, only to be told not to by the young knight.
"Lyn is dead, Lyonel. He died with his secret and we best let them be buried together. As you said, we have to think about our future and we will build an uncompromising image for our House, from now on."
"We will. I swear it."
"Good. Now the first thing we need to start over is to find you a wife."
Lyonel groaned and hid his head between his hands.
"Do we have to do this now?"
"Now will be the perfect time to do it, brother. Have you seen how many Ladies are gathered to attend the Royal wedding and the tourney?"
"I have, but I don't think -"
"I made you a promise that I would find you a new bride did I not? So I'll find one no matter how long it takes to do so. The only thing you need to do is keep an open mind with some of the names I have on this list I made."
"Fair enough, who did you have in mind?"
"Well for starters, I didn't bother putting down names of northern ladies since most of the eligible ladies that would've been a good match before the war are either already matched or their fathers would not want a match to a Vale Lord. Not after the truth about Lord Jon has been brought to light."
"It also doesn't help that we were beaten by the northern forces so badly. Even without that dragon, we would've lost. After all, we sorely underestimated them because all we saw were savages who were nothing but the dirt beneath our boots." Lyonel agreed with a grimace.
"We are never going to live that down," Lucas said, shaking his head. "But in any case, I also didn't bother with Dorne since our late liege lord left the Martells simmering in their righteous anger for so many years. So I highly doubt that any Dornish Lady will want anything to do with us. Especially since we have no idea what's going to happen to those idiotic Dornish prisoners. And as for the Stormlands, I don't think it would look good if a Vale Lord and a Storm Lords' daughter were to marry. King Jaehaerys and some of his supporters might see that as a sign for another future coup."
"Good point. But who would be foolish enough to try that when His Grace has five fire-breathing dragons and a vast majority of the realm behind him?"
Lucas shrugged and said, "I doubt anyone would be that stupid. But we definitely do not want to draw the wrong kind of attention to us by doing something that could be taken the wrong way. Especially with everything we have learned about Lyn. So that being said, our only options would be the Riverlands, the West, and the Reach."
"Nothing for the Vale?" he asked with a raised eyebrow.
"My dear brother, if you had wanted to marry a lady from the Vale you wouldn't have bothered with that merchant's daughter. Besides, we need to improve our relationship with the loyalist houses now that our reputation has soured thanks to us being on the wrong side of the war."
"Oh, I know that. I just wanted to make certain that you were thinking things through and not trying to set me up with a Frey girl to get out of any actual work." He said with a smirk.
"Lyonel! I'm offended that you would think me so cruel and stupid." his brother replied with mock offense.
"Oh, my deepest apologies, brother! I never meant to insult such a delicate flower as yourself," he said sarcastically. Which resulted in the two brothers laughing wholeheartedly. Something they hadn't been able to do together in so many years.
Lucas' first initial targets were some of Margaery Tyrell's Ladies-in-waiting, namely those who were from her family. Knowing that his brother wanted to make himself useful, he let him try to set up a meeting with one of them, while expecting their grandmother, the famous Queen of Thorns, to refuse any match coming from the Vale. Lucas' enthusiasm never faltered even when he got no response, and he kept trying to make him speak with Ladies from the Reach during the wedding feast. Not really in the mood for small talk, he tried to find somewhere to hide and was surprised to see he wasn't the only one. The Lord was looking frantically around him as if he was afraid to be found.
"Are you well, my Lord?" Lyonel asked with concern in his voice.
"Oh, yes, I am. I just…"
"I can leave you alone if you wish?"
"No, no. All is well. You look like you are trying to escape the feast too, so… You can stay."
"I thank you, Lord…"
"Errol, but please, call me Sebastion."
"Well met, Sebastion. Lyonel Corbray."
"Oh, you're Ser Lyn's brother?"
Lyonel tensed at those words and was grateful to hear the Lord only offer condolences. He nodded and thanked him curtly.
"So, who are you hiding from?" He asked.
"The bane of my existence. My friend, Allard Seaworth has gotten into his head that he has a sacred mission to fulfill."
"And this mission being?"
"To find a bride for me before the end of our time here."
"That's not what you wish?"
"Yes, I do want to find a bride! But you see… He is not a very discreet person and I get in trouble every time he tries to match me with someone."
"I understand your predicament."
"Do you, really? Not only has he managed to insult both princesses since our arrival, but tonight he almost made one of Prince Oberyn's daughters kill us with her dagger."
"What did he say to her?"
"That her sister was clearly more good looking but what she lacked in elegance she obviously was better in other ways he wouldn't mind trying."
"Oh no… Was that the eldest he offended?" Lyonel said, fearful of the answer.
"Aye, Obara Sand, indeed."
"You should thank the Gods you were in a wedding and not in the tourney." Lyonel winced.
"I know… My mother will not let me live that one down if I'm hurt by a Dornish once more…" Sebastion sighed desperately.
"And here I thought that Lucas was a pushover…"
"Lucas?"
"My brother. He wants me to spend time with one of Queen Margaery's cousins."
"And this doesn't please you?"
"Not only are they cousins to the Queen, but I don't think the Queen of Thorns will find me worthy of a match with one of her roses."
"You might be right, but what do you have to lose? If the Lady is agreeable and willing to wed, then I doubt Lady Olenna would go against her wishes. It might benefit her to have a granddaughter wed in the Vale."
"As she would in the Stormlands, Sebastion."
"You have the right of it, but I come from a small house, whereas you…"
"Come from a poor one…"
"Politics are such a pain!" Sebastion sighed loudly. "I'd rather face a dragon in battle than another Lady."
"Trust me, you do not wish to face a dragon," Lyonel chuckled darkly. "I've already done that. Give me the Lady instead."
"Well, I'm glad to hear you say that, brother!" Lyonel tensed as he turned and faced a smirking Lucas. "Lady Elinor agreed to one dance with you, so you best get on your best behaviour!"
Several days later, word had spread that Lady Catelyn had been captured just outside of Gulltown and that she was being escorted to King's Landing to face trial. Unfortunately, but not at all surprising, Baelish had managed to slip away on a ship bound for Braavos. Apparently, the coward had abandoned his so-called beloved wife to save himself when he first saw signs of impending capture. There were also rumors that he had been essentially holding her prisoner by keeping her drugged and compliant.
If that was true, then he more than likely only married her in order to acquire a hostage as a way to keep his own head.
The Lords of the Riverlands were anxious, as they had to wait for her trial to bend the knee to the king. Lord Stark and his family also seemed nervous, more so since the King was not showing up for his duty. Everyone knew what had happened between him and the former Lady of Winterfell. The hatred Lady Catelyn harbored for Jaehaerys was not a secret and, if the songs were to be believed, she and her brother Edmure had planned more than once to have him killed.
"It must be awful to be in the King's position," Lucas wondered. "To have to sentence the mother of your kin."
"She, like the others, has to pay for her crimes. She and Littlefinger have to die."
"Mayhaps, but she's the mother of his cousins. Would it not be considered kinslaying?"
"I hadn't thought of that," Lyonel admitted. "But she was willing to commit kinslaying first."
"He would still be cursed by the Gods if he had to swing the sword."
"He cannot let her go freely. She has to answer for what she did."
"He can send her to the Faith, as a Silent Sister! Or in exile in Essos!"
"The fact that he didn't kill the Dornish Lords already saw to that, to have it done once more, even for his family's kin, especially for his family's kin… It would weaken the beginning of his reign. People will see him as too soft in the heart. I would have Ser Arthur kill her, with no regrets if she had done to me what she did to Jaehaerys."
"But his family, the North, wouldn't they resent him?"
"Lord Stark had set Catelyn aside, his children as of now must know what happened. If they can't understand that he has no choice…"
"She's their mother!" Lucas protested.
"Aye, and should Lyn be alive right now, knowing what we do about him, would you defend him? He was my brother and I regret a lot of things, but I would not have blamed the King if he had to be beheaded. Would you?"
Lucas averted his gaze and Lyonel knew he had made his point.
They later found out that Littlefinger had been captured and that they would wait for him to put his wife on trial. Why it was important for the King to have Littlefinger there, he didn't know, but Lyonel supposed that it was also to gain some time for the judgement. He wanted to see the Mockingbird in his cell, to curse him in the face, but Ser Richard told him it would lead to questions Lyonel wouldn't want to answer, so he waited, hoping to see the end of the man.
The day of the trial finally arrived and Lyonel was surprised to see the Queen presiding over it. Not that the King had been present much those days, leaving the daily tasks to his Hand and occasionally his wife, but he thought it strange that he wouldn't at least be seen by the crowd. Lord Stark and his children were in attendance, each one of their faces betraying their feelings on the matter. It seemed like Lady Sansa had already judged her mother guilty of every charge, while Lord Robb looked conflicted and little Arya fearful of what was about to happen.
When the Mockingbird arrived and said that he had been given certain considerations if he agreed to testify against his wife, Lyonel stared at his liege in disbelief. That Yohn didn't seem perturbed by it meant he knew about that and he would have made a scene had it not been for the commotion happening at that moment.
"Lord Stark, is something wrong?" the Queen asked.
"Forgive me your grace, but my wife is with the Grandmaester, our babe is being born." Ned Stark answered, a mix of excitement and panic clear in his features and voice.
"Go be with her, Lord Stark," she said with a smile.
Whether it was that which sparked her momentum, the thought of Ned Stark moving on with his life while she was about to lose hers, or the accumulation of betrayals she had taken in stride which overwhelmed her, but Cately Tully chose this moment to unleash her inner thoughts for all the crowd present to listen.
"Lies, Lies, all of it is damn lies, he's a bastard, spawn of the seven hells and he's put you all under his spell. King, King, he's no king of mine, all he ever wished for was to take what wasn't his, to bring my family down so he could laugh at us all.
He's wicked and wanton as all bastards are and I curse the day he was spawned and the whore that gave birth to him. I curse the fact that I didn't smother him in his crib or throw him from the window of the nursery he had no right to be in. Each day he breathes is an affront to the Seven and I damn him and all of you for falling for his lies. Had I only truly known the depths that he would sink too then I'd have taken a knife and cut his filthy bastard throat myself.
My only mistake was letting others do what I should have done, as for this court, none of you have the right to judge me. I am true to my gods and can see what it is that none of you can. Mark my words if you don't rise up and slay this filthy bastard then he'll be the death of you all." Catelyn screamed.
Lyonel stood there, dumbfounded, as the court showed a diverse reaction to her outburst. Shock, outrage, the Riverlords all left the hall, ashamed of their former Liege Lord's sister, before the sentence which could only be one thing as she threatened the King's life in front of everyone.
As his eyes fell on the Master of whispers while the latter was approaching him, he felt his anger rise once more.
"Not here, not now, my Lord. Come with me." Ser Richard ordered as Lyonel was about to explode.
Lucas's hand on his shoulder was the only thing keeping him from doing so on their way to Richard's hideout. The Master of Whispers led them to a tavern and ordered 3 mugs of beer without stopping and led them to a room he closed behind them.
As soon as Lucas' hand left his shoulder, Lyonel couldn't contain himself anymore.
"You said that he would stand trial for all of his crimes and yet all I see is that worm testifying in exchange for leniency. How could your king agree to such a bargain when he knows that Baelish cannot be trusted? Is he a fool or just naive?"
"Enough! Sit down and calm yourself if you want answers." Richard spoke with such force and a look of intensity in his eyes that Lyonel felt a small sense of fear. Even more so when he realized that he had nearly spoken out against the King he had yet to bend the knee to. So with great reluctance, he took a deep breath he sat down on the bench.
"Now then, first of all, be very grateful that this tavern is owned by the Lannisters and that the workers here are in my service. You should also be grateful that I understand why you are angry and I have no desire to see you locked up for speaking treason. So with that in mind, I'm going to tell you some things that very few people know about so you can have a better understanding of the decisions that were made in regards to Baelish. But I first need your word that you and your brother will keep this to yourselves and never speak of it."
Lyonel and Lucas looked at each other and then nodded to the spymaster before they each gave him their word of honor.
"Alright now that that's settled, I want you to answer this question. Did it ever occur to you that Lyn was not the only person that Baelish was blackmailing or controlling in some way into doing his dirty work?"
When the brothers just simply stared at him in confusion, Richard sighed and said, "I thought not. When we last met I had mentioned that the journal we had found contained names of those who were in Littlefinger's debt. Some of those names were well known and noble. If we had actually put that worm on trial for his crimes then he would have caused chaos by spilling every secret he knew. And don't even get me started on the half-truths he could spill to divide the realm and prevent King Jaehaerys from being able to unite us after this war. So his Grace and I decided that it would be for the best if we just simply frightened him in to testify against his wife in exchange for his head."
"So instead of punishing him for his crimes, you'll let that worm go into exile so a few nobles are spared some embarrassment? Where is the honor in that?" Lyonel asked, feeling furious with the King and giving Ser Richard a look that could kill if it were possible. But the spymaster just simply frowned and responded with words that the brothers were not expecting.
"Honor is something to strive towards my Lord, but it is not something that should rule you to the point of being a slave to it. Sometimes you have to do dishonorable things to save lives and keep the realm at large safe from harm. The future that His Grace wants to build is bigger than just you and your brother, bigger than House Corbray, and much bigger than the Vale as a whole. If allowing one criminal to roam free is the best way to keep the future bright for our children then so be it. But that doesn't mean that Littlefinger is entitled to his freedom."
"What do you mean by that Ser?" Lucas asked.
"Simple, when His Grace made that deal with the man, the agreement was that in exchange for his testimony Littlefinger would keep his head. But His Grace never said anything about keeping his life, let alone that nobody else would want to kill the weasel themselves. After all, the man has made quite a few enemies thanks to his scheming and blackmailing."
"Are you saying…?" Lyonel started to ask but couldn't finish thanks to the angry lump in his throat.
"All I'm saying is that Petyr Baelish will not live long enough to make it to Essos, let alone a ship that would be willing to take him there."
"You fought against someone who lied to the whole Realm and now you're willing to do the same, for what? To make Jaehaerys look good while he stabs his enemy in the back? How can we trust you, him, after all of this? How does it make him better than Jon Arryn?"
"I said I understand your anger, but there's a fine line between anger and treason." Richard warned. "Do not presume to judge my King when you are in no position to do so. I had told you things I shouldn't have out of compassion and courtesy, but no more. Speak ill about Jaehaerys once more and I will see to it that Littlefinger would not be the only one to suffer his wrath."
"I don't know what game you are playing, but I do not like it."
"You don't have to like anything, my Lord. Just know that justice will be done."
Lyonel then left the room, blinded by his fury. He wanted, no, needed to hurt someone, something, to release his anger and disappointment. That the King would allow Littlefinger to play more games, to keep his head to supposedly keep the peace, and have Catelyn Tully speak about Jaehaerys to doom herself was inconceivable. He was terribly disappointed and he didn't believe that he could trust anymore of what had been said to him.
So lost in his feelings he ended up walking away from the red Keep, ignoring his brother's pleas and Ser Richard's calls. He couldn't recall for how long he'd walked, but his steps led him to the Sept of Baelor, and he climbed the stairs leading to the main entrance. He thought for a moment about going to the Stranger's statue and praying for Littlefinger's demise. But he ended up dismissing that thought and instead went to the statue of the Father.
As he stood before the towering symbol of justice and judgement, Lyonel prayed that something, anything would happen to prevent Baelish from escaping the fate he deserved.
He understood politics, how they had sometimes to sacrifice a part of their honor to get things done for the good of the people. He could see it in how Ned Stark did it to protect the remnant of his sister's family. Of how Yohn Royce suffered when he realized they had been led by a lie and deserted to protect his men. But Lyonel's hatred for Littlefinger ran so deep that the Lord of Heart's Home didn't know if he would be able to do as Richard bid him.
He sighed loudly and turned around, ready to leave, when his body collided with another. He swiftly reacted, protecting the person who was about to fall and gasped as he found himself holding the daughter of his Liege in his arms.
"Lady Ysilla, I'm very sorry, I was so lost in my thoughts that I… Did I hurt you?"
"It's quite alright, Lord Corbray. I thank you for breaking my fall." Ysilla smiled as he put her back to her feet before frowning when seeing his distraught face. "Are you well, my Lord?"
"I… Lady Catelyn's trial…"
"I'm sure it had everyone shaking to the core. I couldn't believe what she said about the King, how someone could hate a child to the point of killing him and only regretting not succeeding in doing so… No wonder why she ended up with Littlefinger!" she spat with disgust.
"My Lady?"
"That man, Lord Lyonel… The Gods forgive me…" she shivered and his heartbeat quickened with concern.
"Had he done something to you, my Lady?"
"No, not to me, but… The way he used women for his profit, people in general, and his own wife right now… I really shouldn't say this in a sept, but if they really let him keep his head, I hope he'll still suffer."
"That's why I came to pray, actually," Lyonel admitted with shame. "I… People like Littlefinger have created so much pain, so much chaos, destroyed so many lives, and to see him almost free made me…"
"Angry?"
"Aye."
"Perhaps we should talk about it outside the Sept?" Ysilla suggested with a small smile. "Then whatever we will get off of our chest, we can come back and ask for forgiveness?"
Lyonel nodded and offered his arm to her, which she took gratefully, and they walked to the Great Sept's gardens.
He had never spent time with Ysilla Royce. The lady was sheltered at Runestone, not traveling much with her father and brothers during tourneys. She didn't like those events, always fearing something would happen to her brothers and not really relishing on men showing off their skills with weapons.
She was a very articulate and passionate woman, who didn't mind sharing her opinion and Lyonel found it somehow refreshing. She talked about her dislike for Baelish, whom she thought was a danger to the Vale for how he tried to insert himself in all the Houses' affairs. He didn't know if she knew about Lyn but he didn't care either, the simple fact of sharing their common outrage at what happened during the trial was enough for him.
"I talked to my Father about it and he told me that it was for the greater good. What good can possibly come out from Littlefinger being alive? I fear he will keep finding a way to manipulate people should he be exiled to Essos. He prospered by exploiting poor women who didn't know better and selling them for a night of pleasure. I cannot imagine what he could do with slaves who had no more choice than to do their master's bidding."
"What did your father say?"
"That Littlefinger will never get away with what he did, contrary to what he believed. That they needed to use him to prove Lady Catelyn's schemes to the rest of the court and to provoke her into admitting her crimes towards king Jaehaerys, but that he'd been assured that Littlefinger would never see the sun rising again. But, he's still alive, so…"
"I truly don't know how they will deal with him, but I have been told the same. Maybe they'll lock him forever in a place without windows. Maybe they'll use the Black Cells once more and let him rot in here. Now that I talked with you, I find that there are a lot of people who want him punished just as much as I do. So I think that we will have to simply trust the Crown to punish him for us with whatever game they decide to play with Littlefinger."
"You are right, my Lord. Thank you for easing my concerns."
"Please, call me Lyonel, and I should be the one to thank you for the same thing."
"How is that, Lyonel?"
The sound of his name through her lips made his heart flutter, but he quickly shook the feeling away. Now was not the time to feel weak.
"I was really angry at the King, the Council… And you made me realize that their position was even harder than ours. They have to tread carefully if they want to be seen as impartial as they can. It should not appear as a personal vengeance. I believe now that is why they are keeping Littlefinger alive, for the time being."
"Is that why the King didn't preside over the trial?"
"I think so. After all, the Queen told that he wanted her to sentence Lady Catelyn to serve the Faith should she be found guilty. So it coming from her would not anger his Stark family…"
Ysilla gasped, seemingly realizing something.
"Oh no… Do you think he will forgive Queen Margaery for condemning that… woman to death? She went against his orders, after all!"
"Have no fear, my Lady. I'm sure he will understand. Had he been there while she'd made the threat to his life, he would have had no other choice but to kill her himself."
"The last thing we need right now is to have Catelyn Tully create more chaos for King Jaehaerys."
"You are very passionate about this subject, my Lady."
"Call me Ysilla, please," she said and he nodded. "I found the tale of King Jaehaerys absolutely heartbreaking, Lyonel. All the hardships he had to overcome because of his status, then to find out it was for nothing because he was far more than anybody thought of him… Having to deal with being the last of his family in a world ruled by the perpetrators of their demise… And having his aunt by marriage, who was supposed to be his family, tried to kill him because she was afraid to see him rise too high... Being knighted by his father's killer… And to find the strength of keeping his heart in all of this, when he could have easily made the world bend to his will with his dragons... Very few men would have behaved as he did."
"I haven't thought of this that way either," Lyonel realized. "We always hear about his feats and his dragons, the wonderful things he's done so far for the people of King's Landing, of the North and the West."
"But apart from that, he's a young man who had to hide for almost all of his life and who now has the responsibility of all the Seven Kingdoms on his shoulders and a legacy to make people forget about."
"He will forge his own path, Ysilla. I have no doubt about that."
"He will need people to help him forge that path throughout the Realm."
"That is why he appointed people to do so. That's why he appointed your father."
"My father will need help, Lyonel. There are people in the Vale who will be discontent with his nomination. People who will want him dead because of what he did." she answered, her eyes filling with tears at the end of her explanation.
"Trust me, Ysilla. He has more allies than he has enemies, and he has a wonderful and more than capable family to look after him. Andar, Robar, Waymar, and you, the fiercest of the lot," he said and was pleased to see her smile. "Of course, people will try, but they will throw themselves at a wall of loyal supporters. My brother and I will be his shield whenever we can."
"Do you swear it?"
"On my Honor as a Knight. On all that I hold dear, I swear it on the Old Gods and the New."
Her smile widened and she quickly wiped her eyes before nodding to him.
"I thank you, Lyonel."
They went back inside the Great Sept and as he looked at her prying to the Mother, he formulated another prayer, to the Crone this time, to give him strength and wisdom for the journey ahead of them.
He accompanied Ysilla back to her quarters, not wanting her to be alone on the streets even if she had guards protecting her, he felt it was his duty to make sure she would be safe. He then went to his brother to let him know he was calmer and they went to the training yard and sparred to ease their minds some more.
Harrold Hardying's arrival had not been what Lyonel could call a simple affair. Jon Arryn's heir had been offended that no one from the Crown had welcomed him that night. Not even the Hand of the King bothered to show up and Lady Anya had to raise her voice to make him realize that they owed him nothing as he was all but a prisoner waiting to bend the knee before them.
Lyonel didn't bother telling Harry that they were too busy with the King's departure and the Ironborns attacking their shores to deal with him. Not that he was certain of that either, as it was once again an off-handed comment that led him to this realization. According to Ysilla Royce, The King had left the day of Catelyn Tully's trial and the Queen was furious. Not one from the small council confirmed nor denied the claim to Lord Yohn and it had been decided not to say anything to Harry when the first Council of the Vale had met.
The second one was about to start with Lady Anya in attendance, Lord Yohn presiding and Lyonel, Horton Redfort, Gerold Grafton, Elbert Hersy and Nestor Royce completing the council of Seven. Pleasantries were exchanged at the start, everyone enquiring over the others' families to ease the tension until Yohn spoke.
"My Lords, My Lady. I've been informed that your call to bend the knee will take place tomorrow."
"So soon?" Anya gasped.
"We've been waiting for moons, Anya," Grafton sighed. "I think it is high time for us to do this and go home."
"Aye, I understand, but we just arrived, so I find it strange that we're not given time to settle in and -"
"I think it meant to urge Harrold to make a decision if he hadn't already," Yohn said.
"He is willing to bend the knee," Anya replied. "I understand that he will be given the name Arryn and the Eyrie after this?"
"Aye, but his power will be restricted and House Arryn will not be a Major House anymore."
"As long as he keeps his head, I agree with this arrangement." Anya nodded.
"How is the state of the Vale, my Lady?" Lyonel asked.
"People are slowly getting back to their lives. We had one attack from the Mountain Clans at the Bloody Gate since your departure, Lord Yohn, but it has quickly been settled. Speaking of it, we will have to find another Knight of the Gate, since Ser Brynden has taken permanent leave of his post to be the Regent of his nephew at Riverrun."
"Right. I have had many suggestions after I have been named Lord Paramount to man the Bloody Gate and I would like to hear your opinion now."
"I think Ser Donnel is a capable knight. He had been trained by Ser Brynden and has worked very well at his post so far," Lyonel said and he saw a small smile on Anya's face, only for Nestor to scoff at him.
"He is too young and too driven by his emotions." the Lord of the Gates of the Moon spoke disdainfully. "He opened the Gate to people who, as his duty would ask of him, should not have been allowed through."
"One of these people being the actual Warden of the East, mind you." Horton intervened. "Had he not done that, the Vale would be in complete chaos as of right now."
"I'm not saying what he did was not the right thing to do -"
"That is exactly what you said, Nestor. And if I remember correctly, you almost got my son arrested for it, too," Anya retorted with a bite. "So cut the crap and say whatever you want to say before suggesting Albar for the role."
"I…"
"Do not waste our time here." Anya cut Nestor abruptly. "I have accepted an invitation to sup with Lady Errol and, as you know, you don't make a lady wait, so... My Lord Yohn?"
"All in agreement of keeping Ser Donnel as the Knight of the Gate?" Yohn said while raising his hand.
Lyonel did the same and stared at the smirking old woman with bewilderment. He had heard a lot of things about Anya Waynwood, notably that she ruled her lands with an iron fist, but he had never seen the woman in action and he had to admit that he was a little bit scared.
As expected, only Lord Nestor had his hand down, although Lord Hersy seemed to have done so reluctantly.
"Then it is settled. Ser Donnel Waynwood will be the new Knight of the Gate." Yohn declared proudly before shutting down the applause with his next words. "There is something else I would like to bring to the council's attention. You all know that we are in a precarious position within the Seven Kingdoms. The Reach, the North, the West and Dorne are united through their position during the war, whereas the Riverlands, the Stormlands and the Vale are still under huge scrutiny. This is why I would suggest all of the Lords from the Vale to refrain from seeking an alliance between the two other weakened realms."
"An alliance, as in… Betrothals?" Lord Hersy frowned.
"Aye. I will not prevent you from concluding betrothals as you see fit in your own House, but I think it would be beneficial and a sign of complete transparency toward the Crown to let them know if you have a contract with a House from the Riverlands or the Stormlands, and to wait for their assent to conclude it."
"It makes sense," Horton said. "It could be interpreted as the start of a plot against the King, if two houses who fought against him seek to join one another."
"So we have to wait for the King's approval to do what we want? That's it?" Nestor asked.
"For now, we do." Yohn acquiesced.
"They mean to ask us to show them what we do in the privy?" Hersy japed.
"If it prevents a war, my Lord, I would have you squat in front of them." Yohn retorted to muffled laughs. "They do not trust us. The least we can do is not to fuel their mistrust."
Anya seemed reluctant to agree this time but did so anyway.
The Throne Room, 298 AC
"What's taking them so long? We've been here for almost an hour!" Harrold exclaimed loudly.
"Do not make a scene, Harry. You are here to swear fealty and nothing else." Anya scolded him.
All the Lords of the Vale and their families were present to bend the knee to the Royal Couple. Harry was as his usual self, impatient and arrogant. He had chosen to wear the symbol of House Arryn, exhibiting proudly the white falcon where he should have been subdued and repentant. Lyonel felt the judging and disapproving eyes of the assembly boring into him and his peers, making him uncomfortable. Thankfully, Lucas' and Lady Ysilla's encouraging smiles were enough for him to make him keep his composure.
"Her Grace Queen Margaery Targaryen, The Queen of the Seven Kingdoms." the herald said and all eyes were on the former Rose of Highgarden, now Queen of the Seven kingdoms who walked regally, accompanied by some members of her family and the King's famous direwolf.
She nodded to the Lord Hand and he stepped forward when she took her seat.
"My lords of the Vale, you are here today to officially learn the cost of rising against the crown, to swear your fealty to their graces and to your new liege lord, and to be formally welcomed as good and true members of this court. Is there any among you who have something they'd like to say before we begin?" he asked and was surprised to hear a voice raised.
"Is his grace not joining us?" Ser Harrold asked and Lyonel rolled his eyes, exasperated.
"Her grace, Queen Margaery sits in judgment of you all today, Ser Harrold, do you question her right or suitability to do so?" Jaime Lannister asked, visibly irritated.
"Of course not Lord Hand, I'd most welcome being judged by her grace," Harry replied and Lyonel noticed the direwolf rising to his feet.
The fool.
"Your grace," Lannister said with a bow as he turned to the Queen.
"Lord Melcolm, Lord Hunter, Lord Corbray, Lord Hersy, Lord Egen, Lord Belmore, Lady Waynwood, and Ser Symond, step forward and be recognized," she said and Lyonel did as he was told, his heart beating faster. Anya then took a step further, as they had convened she would be their representative in front of the Queen.
"All of you rose against my husband and me in support of Jon Arryn and Robert Baratheon's continued attempt to usurp my husband's true and legal right to the throne. That in doing so you followed your liege lord has been taken into consideration in relation to the punishments you are to be subjected to. Do any of you have anything to add before we get to those punishments?" Queen Margaery asked.
"No, your grace," Anya replied.
"Very well. You are hereby ordered to pay increased taxes of 15 percent per year for five years. If during this time even the merest hint of disloyalty is found, be it to the crown or to your new liege lord then you will be brought back here to face a further and more severe punishment. I warn you, my lords, my lady, do not misinterpret our generosity for weakness. My husband and I seek to bring the Realm together and not tear it apart and that and only that is the reason why your punishments are not far more punitive." the Queen said and Lyonel breathed a sigh of relief. An increase in taxes would be hard to bear, but not impossible.
"I thank you on behalf of the Lords of the Vale, your grace." Lady Waynwood said with a curtsy while he and the others bowed once more before stepping back.
"Lord Redfort, Lord Grafton, please step forward."
"Your grace." Lord Grafton said with a very respectful bow matched by Lord Redfort.
"Both your houses refused to rise against my husband and me and while neither rose with us, we understand your reasons for not doing so. Lord Grafton, it is the will of his grace and I that your own taxes are to be reduced by 15 percent for the next five years and that once our business here is done, that you are to take a meeting with our Master of Trade Lord Manderly in order to discuss future areas of mutual benefit." The Queen declared.
Lyonel felt a peak of jealousy as Grafton thanked her profusely. House Grafton would prosper greatly while his house would struggle financially, but it was still better than going to the Wall or losing his head.
"Lord Redfort, we offer the same terms to you in relation to taxes and we make this further offer. Your son Ser Mychel and Mya Stone have strong feelings for each other, you are aware of this?" Queen Margaery asked.
"I am, your grace." Lord Redfort said.
"They are here?" Margaery asked and Mychel and Mya came forward.
Lucas had told him about the young couple and the reason why the Redforts didn't march, so it didn't come as a surprise to him to see them betrothed. What did surprise him was seeing Mychel given a Lordship and being directly sworn to House Targaryen as a reward. He'd heard rumors about Summerhall and Harrenhal being rebuilt as Targaryen's seats, but it seemed like the King's plans were well beyond a simple project if they were already giving lands away to the loyalists.
He looked around and saw that the others were also shocked by this turn of events. The newly named Lord Redfort was beaming with pride and so was his betrothed. Then the atmosphere tensed when Harry was asked to step forward. The direwolf was on high alert, his haunches raised as Queen Margaery started talking.
"Ser Harrold, as per the offer my husband offered you, you are aware that the terms are non-negotiable. You have but one thing to say here today, choose your words wisely."
"I thank you, your grace. I am here to accept your grace's most kind offer and to do so without prejudice or regret. I find her judgment to be most fair and true and am warmed by her compassion and by her beauty." Ser Harrold said and Lyonel rolled his eyes once again.
"Then the crown and Lord Royce will accept your oath of fealty and leave you with this warning, Ser Harrold. You are from this moment forward Lord Arryn of the Eyrie but you should take note of what happened to the last Lord Arryn. My husband took his head himself, with his own sword, my lord, be sure to not suffer the same fate. Loyalty is not just expected from you, it is required and the crown will be watching." Queen Margaery said.
"I take comfort in knowing I'm being watched through your eyes, your grace," Harrold said, smiling as he bowed.
The fool doesn't even realize that his attempts at charming the Queen fell flat.
"This idiot will get himself killed..." Anya grumbled, disappointment clear in her voice while Harry swore his oaths to Lord Yohn.
"My Lord Corbray, Lord Stark wishes to speak to you." someone told him timidly, and he frowned as he followed the young boy who led them to his Lords' quarters.
Why would Ned Stark want to see him, now of all time?
The Warden of the North had been scarcely seen in the Red Keep after his previous wife's death, even though Lyonel knew it had more to do with the arrival of his son than with mourning Catelyn Tully. Ned Stark also spent a lot of time with his family, as his other children were fostered and he would soon have to go back to Winterfell.
"Lord Corbray. I hope everything went well with the Queen today?"
"Yes, Lord Stark. I have to say I'm surprised you've sent for me?"
"I told you I would the last time we talk, didn't I?"
"My Lord?" Lyonel said, confused.
"Please, call me Ned."
"Lyonel."
"Aye. Back in the camp, I swore to give you back your family's heirloom should you bend the knee to my nephew."
Recognition filled Lyonel's mind as he then remembered their conversation. He had totally forgotten about Lady Forlorn, so glad was he to be freed and to spend time with his brother. He saw Ned get up and pick the ancestral sword of his family, the heirloom he never got to get, and placed it in front of him. His heart skipped a beat and his breath quickened.
"Ned, I… I don't know what to say…"
"There's nothing to say, Lyonel. I am pleased to give it back to you and hope to count you as an ally as of now."
"I… Thank you, for honoring your oath and for… Everything…"
Ned smiled at Lyonel and they made small talk for a moment, Lyonel still in a daze after getting Lady Forlorn back. When Lucas found out, he was as shocked as his brother, staring at the sword as if it was a long-lost treasure, and in a way it was.
"I can't believe he just gave it to you, today of all days."
"Well, he already has a Valyrian steel, so I guess two of them are hard to take care of," Lyonel joked.
"And now it's yours. Finally."
Lyonel's heart clenched as he thought of how far he'd come from wanting to hold Lady Forlorn to that day. He sheathed the sword and shook his head.
"No. It's yours. I don't want it."
"What?" Lucas squeaked.
"Father gave it to Lyn because it has to be wielded by a knight. A warrior. Someone worthy of its thirst for glory, and that is not who I am."
Lucas hesitated but Lyonel was true to his word and placed the sword into his brother's hands, giving him an encouraging smile to let him know he was certain of his decision. The younger knight took Lady Forlorn tentatively, his eyes glistening with emotion.
"I swear on all that I hold dear that I will make you and our family proud," Lucas spoke solemnly.
"I already am, Lucas. I already am."
It took them a sennight to get ready to leave. Not that they had a lot to pack up, but Lyonel had taken the opportunity of being at the Red Keep to speak to the Lords who were present, organize business, and try finding a Lady he could marry soon. As he had predicted, Lucas' plans to see him wed in the Reach had failed, the Queen of Thorns having seemingly struck a deal with Anya Waynwood and not willing to have any more ties with the Vale. There were no interesting prospects in the Westerlands as the war brought the Western houses closer together, a lot of weddings were already set before any available Lady got to King's Landing. Dorne was out of the question, so Lyonel decided to stop looking for the time being and focus on his House's growth. Which ended up being a good choice since doubted that he would have had a positive response from any Lady present in the Red Keep. All thanks to Harry Freysbane Arryn's poor attitude reflecting on all the Vale's bachelors.
Lyonel had struggled to think of a reason why the man still had his head, after his distasteful behavior with the Queen and her ladies in waiting, as well as the Princesses. That Ser Loras had to give him a lesson so that he would stop bothering the Queen was not enough punishment, especially since it only diverted his attention on other unwilling women. Although he did have to admire the young knight's restraint in not skewering the man for disrespecting his sister. Any other man would have killed him in a duel for such distasteful behavior. And that spar made it very clear that Harry would've lost very easily if it had been a real fight.
I wonder if that was another reason why Lord Jon wanted Harry to stay behind? Maybe he recognized that his kin's lack of skill would have gotten him killed within 2 minutes of the battle starting?
The thought caused Lyonel to chuckle but at the same time, he felt a bit worried. The Vale was already on thin ice with the Crown, if Harry kept things up then the Vale will be left with a foul image that they had little hope to recover from. Especially since Harry came from a House that was now seen as dishonorable and traitorous. But the fool walked around the Keep like he people should be in awe of his presence and treat with the respect that is due to a Lord Paramount.
The King had returned two days before and they were set to leave at dusk the next day, with some of the Lords and the rest of Lord Royce's family, with the exception of Ser Robar who had been named into the Kingsguard the previous day. Bronze Yohn was extremely proud of his son and of the honor that had been bestowed upon him, and they held a small celebration the night of Rbar's nomination. Yohn had made Lyonel promise to meet him before he left the Red Keep, which was what the Lord of Heart's Home was about to do.
"Everything is set for your departure?" The new Lord Paramount asked warmly.
"Aye. Lucas is looking for a new armor at the Street of Steel, as if he couldn't do this sooner," Lyonel sighed, not unkindly. "He wants to be ready for the next tourney."
"Some things never change, I guess," Yohn chuckled. "What about you? What are your plans for the next moons?"
"I do not know. Truth to be told I just long to be home. It might be the longest time I've been away so far."
"You've come a long way, Lyonel, and I understand your need to go home. Were I in a position to do so, I would have left already. Alas, I cannot."
"Soon, my Lord. Soon everything will be settled and you will join your family."
"I hope so. Speaking of family, I heard you've met with my daughter more than once during your stay?"
"My Lord?" Lyonel said, confused.
"You've made quite the impression on Ysilla, I must say."
"I don't know what to say, my Lord, other than the fact that your daughter is a credit to your House, truly."
"She is, isn't she?" Yohn said proudly. "I have been blessed with all my children. Robar is now a Kinsguard, Andar is one of the most dedicated knights in the Vale and the best heir I could wish for, and Waymar joined the Watch in order to make a name for himself. Ysilla, though... Ysilla is my pride and joy. She is my first daughter and the one who is more in tune with the ruling of Runestone and the politics of the Vale."
"She sure is invested in seeing our Realm prosper, and she worries a lot about you."
"I know… She came to me yesterday, asking for a favor, and I must say I have been shocked by her request."
"My Lord?"
"She asked me to give her my permission to wed. Did you know about that?"
"I… No, I didn't. I mean, I haven't been much close to your daughter so she didn't confide in me."
Yohn hummed and stared longly at Lyonel, as if to find out if he was telling the truth. This rattled the Lord, who didn't understand why his Liege was so intent on him knowing.
"You would have spoken to me if you had heard something about a betrothal, right?"
"I swear to you that I don't know anything on the subject. Lady Ysilla and I always talked about things related to the Vale or the Court, but nothing personal." His discomfort was very obviously palpable, as was his confusion.
"Well, I thought she would have told you about it since you are the one she wants to wed."
"Me?" Lyonel repeated, dumbfounded. "Why?"
"She had thought about it carefully, it seems. Politically speaking, it would be a good match, since she needs to marry in the Vale to strengthen our position. She thought about all the candidates and suggested you in the end."
"Why?"
"It was either you or Ser Vardis, and let me tell you that I wouldn't agree to a match with that man even if he had been the only candidate available. And Ysilla was in complete agreement with me on that point."
"But… Me? I have nothing to offer you, nor her, politically… I don't understand."
"You come from the Vale. We could have made a match with the Waynwoods, but they already hold a lot of power by themselves and people already talk about them getting too much favor from the moment we lost the war. Harrold Arryn is out of the equation, not only for his reputation but also because we don't want him to claim any kind of power should anything happen to me. I do not trust Ser Vardis either and Ysilla fears that someone not loyal to me would try to use her against me."
"It makes sense, but… I cannot marry your daughter!"
"Why not?"
"I am not… I am way older than she is. Maybe Lucas would be a better match for her."
"Do you think yourself not worthy of her?"
"I… You're taking me by surprise, my Lord," Lyonel admitted. "I was, I am looking for a wife, but I never thought it possible to wed in one of the oldest Houses of the Vale. I still don't think it possible. As I said, other than being from the Vale, I have nothing to offer, other than my loyalty to you, and the age difference..."
"She doesn't mind the age difference, Lyonel, and I don't either. I did however ask her why she hadn't considered Ser Lucas. Do you want to know what she said?"
Lyonel nodded, his heart beating erratically.
"She said she trusted you to fulfill the oath you made to be the shield that protects our family."
He couldn't help but to gasp at the unexpected answer. He realized then that she had been testing him since their encounter in the Sept of Baelor. Strangely, he didn't feel offended by that, in fact, he found himself to be rather impressed by her motives.
"So, what do you say? Would a betrothal to my daughter be agreeable to you?"
"I… If this is her wish and you agree with it, then… Aye, it would."
"Perfect," Yohn smirked and stood up from his chair to shake his hand, then went to serve them two mugs of ale before they went into detail on a contract for the betrothal, which Lyonel accepted in a daze, not really paying attention to what he was signing.
Ysilla's dowry was important, enough to make their keep function for at least two years as it was. Of course, changes would be made and the most important of them would be that Lucas was to become Lord of the Fingers and create his own house, putting all of Littlefinger's assets from the Vale in House Corbray's disposal.
"How did Littlefinger react to the news?" Lyonel asked.
"I'm afraid we will never know, my friend," Yohn said, his smile not leaving his face while Lyonel frowned again in confusion. "He has been thrown to the wolves, Lyonel, for the crimes he committed against their family, and the wolves were hungry for vengeance and justice."
A weight lifted from Lyonel's consciousness and he smiled in turn as he realized that Petyr Baelish was no more.
The next day was filled with anticipation and excitement for the Corbray brothers. Lucas was excited about being able to return home with one older brother still drawing breath. Lyonel, of course, was also feeling plenty excited about seeing his home again just as much as his brother, but he had another reason for rejoicing, as well as feeling some nervousness.
That reason was that the night before, Lord Yohn had given his future good son permission to speak to Ysilla privately before setting sail for Gulltown. They decided to venture to the Garden of the Red Keep, which had previously been Princess Elia and little Rhaenys' pride and joy and then Myrcella Lannister when she was thought to be Robert's daughter.
They talked about a lot of things, their betrothal being the main conversation, and she confirmed it was her idea to seek it from her father. Lyonel was still amazed at how politically astute Ysilla was, not that he didn't like that fact since he needed someone to help him improve his Keep. Their courting seemed very different from the ordinary, as he was the one blushing while she led the conversation.
He felt like a completely different man compared to when had first arrived in King's Landing, someone who had been given a second chance and ready to start anew, and as Ysilla's determined gaze fell on him before her lips did the same on his, he felt now that he had been truly blessed by the Gods.
Change was coming to the Vale, and the future looked brighter than he could've ever imagined possible.
Notes :
Thank you all for reading our newest addition to our story. And once again we apologize for the delay.
Please feel free to tell us what you think of what we have done with Lyonel.
Next chapter: A knight of the Riverlands who became a prisoner during the war is now sitting in a cell of the Red Keep waiting for judgment from a king that he had once tormented with his friend Edmure Tully.