AN: Wow! I honestly thought this wasn't going to do well. I am both shocked and glad. So, with the responses, I will continue chapter by chapter. As usual, I will give some responses and then on to the show!
CompareDread12: Here is more. Tell me what you think.
Jon Snow: It's the literal meaning of Miyazaki. Sounded better than Miyazaki Land, no?
TheBigBrotherWTPD: Thank you for the compliment, I really hope this does do well. For what was stolen, you must wait and see :). As for Luther being protective of Evetta, I did it for a reason, and their story will be told later on. As for the StaffSeargent question, I do read his stuff, and I will say I like his work, I didn't do those because of him. The shitfest that will happen will be epic.
Arik Kuznetsov: Glad you do. Welcome to another story.
Dacey Mormont – Adelaide Kane
Maege Mormont – Elizabeth Barrett
Selene – Tamsin Egerton
Rowena – Gemma Arterton
Luther – Sam Clafin
Gwyain – Henry Cavill
The Doll (Evetta) – Katie Mcgrath
"Here we Stand" – Normal Dialogue
"Thou hast forgotten" – Other Language Dialogue
Chapter 2: Stories and Legends Begin
The Den
The Castle of Bear Island was still in an uproar over the new arrivals and their declarations. After the Smallfolk were calmed and sent back home, only the Mormont family, the servants, the household guards, and the guests remained. Maege beamed down from her seat at her guests. She tapped the arm of the chair in thought as she locked eyes with Gwyain before speaking, "You will have to forgive the smallfolk," Maege tried to placate, but it didn't ease her guests' tension. "They are a superstitious bunch," she tried to reason, hoping that violence was not coming.
Gwyain stepped forward to talk, and the household guards stepped forward with their weapons drawn. Luther and Rowena put their hands to their weapons and were ready to do battle, while Selene stood weapon drawn with Evetta behind her. Gwyain held up a hand to refrain from attacking. Luther stopped, but Rowena pulled her golden and silver blades outs. Nobody in the room saw her put her helmet back on. She flourished them delicately before putting them in a crossguard. The warriors from Bear Island felt the air shift. A predator unlike any other just made its presence known. "Rowena!" Gwyain's voice echoed in the air, making the woman stop in her tracks. "Stand down" was the order that was given. The woman was apprehensive, but the narrowed gaze of Gwyain made her obey.
Maege was swallowed a lump in her throat as the dark aura from Rowena dissipated. Never in her life had she experienced anything like that, and she had been around for a long time. "That woman guards you quite fiercely, Gwyain," Maege commented. Only two types of people protect that fiercely: family or lovers. Seeing as Rowena didn't look a thing like Gwyain, that only left them being lovers.
Gwyain nodded his head in agreement, "She is my oldest and trusted friend." He cast a gaze that Maege could only be described as loving. "We've been together since we were children," Gwyain boasted, trying to cool the nerves of those around him. Maege noticed how the young man in front of her was speaking. It was evident by his etiquette, speech, and demeanor that this man was educated, like that of a Lord's son.
Maege, while enjoying the simple talk, wanted to get back to get down to business, "You spoke of an object taken from your homeland…." Maege leaned forward in her chair to judge if the man would lie to her, "…. What is it exactly?" If something from the mysterious land had come to Westeros, she needed to get as many details as possible and send them to her Lord.
Luther was the one who spoke as he walked to be shoulder to shoulder with Gwyain, "It is an object from my father's time." He steadied his gaze looking the older woman in the eye as he said, "It's a…religious object to our people." Luther's expressionless face gave nothing away.
Maege sensed that the man to be speaking half-truths. However, she didn't press; she would send a raven to the Warden of the North. "I will write to my Warden about this," Maege decided as she sat back in her chair. "In the meantime, I am indebted to you for saving my daughter," she looked over at her daughter with a grateful smile before looking at the party. "So I will host you to a feast for her rescue in honor of our heroes," Maege declared, and the hall erupted in cheers. She then addressed her guests, "My steward will escort you to the guest wing. the hospitality of Bear Island is yours." While they were an odd bunch, they still saved her daughter, and she would repay their kindness.
"We are grateful, my lady," Gwyain said before bowing his head in the thanks. The rest of his party mimics him. The group followed behind the steward. Who was to bring them to their awaited room.
Maege waited for them to leave before she grabbed the head of her household guard, Duran. "Write a letter to Lord Stark, tell him what was said, and to come to Bear Island as swiftly as he is able," Maege ordered as she got up from her chair to make preparations for the night's festivities.
King's Landing
Jon Arryn sat with the Small Council as they continued to go over the war effort. Currently, King Robert and his brother Stannis were both off fighting the war, leaving, and Grand Maester Pycelle was out dealing with the queen and her pregnancy. Only a handful of seats filled on the Council. Those seats were the Master of Laws held by Robert's youngest brother, Renly. Jon could say that he was a skinnier version of Robert in his youth. However, he doubted Renly could show much as lift anything heavier than a dagger.
The seat of Masters of Coin, held by Petyr Baelish, was in the seat closest to him. He is a short man of slender build. Petyr has sharp features, a trim, pointed beard on his chin, and dark hair with threads of grey running through it.
Finally, there was Janos Slynt, the Lord Commander of the City Watch. The most useless man in all of King's Landing, in Jon's opinion. The Commander is a portly, stout, and jowly man, with the build of a keg of beer. The man's greed was the only thing that surpassed his girth. If anyone greased the man's palms, they earned his loyalty. However, if someone else greased his palms more than you, he was now loyal to that higher bidder.
For hours they have debated over the use of resources, policing King's Land, and funding the war effort. Jon tiredly sighed as he said, "My lords, I understand all the concerns." All the men who had been debating stopped and looked at Jon. "We need to keep supporting the troops and ensure the people that they are safe," Jon ordered. The last thing King's Land needed were panicked Smallfolk. Seeing it was getting late in the day, Jon wished to retire for the evening, maybe enjoy something to drink, and join his wife for dinner, "If that is all…." However, there was one piece of news that would lead to more headaches.
Vary spoke up, "My little birds have brought me songs, Lord Hand." This
Jon had to bright back a groan at the words, "From where Varys?" All pleasantries had drained out of the man, tired from the long day.
"The North, more specifically Bear Island," Varys specified as he stared out in his usual neutral expression. Varys was a eunuch who had the job since the time of the Mad King. The man wore a long, brown, silk robe and the man had a fondness for perfume. The man had garnered the name, The Spider due to his immense number of spies like a web.
Across from him, Petyr called out, "What did the old she-bear finally find a replacement husband?" The jape got a few chuckles from Janos and Renly.
Varys looked directly forward, secretly wanting to see Petyr's expression. "It seemed that young Dacey had been taken prisoner by Alistair Blacktyde," Varys started to explain. This bit of news made Jon's stomach drop. He met the temporary Lordess of Bear Island and knew she would surrender to get her daughter back. If the Crown lost the Bear Islands, the Ironborn would control the Bay of Ice.
Panicking, Jon said, "For fuck's sake! Why did you start with that!?" He contemplated for a moment before blabbering out, "Okay, first we…." However, the quick plan he formulated was not needed.
Vary interrupted him, "Forgive me, Lord Hand, but I wasn't finished." The eunuch bows his head as an apology before continuing.
Jon angrily slammed his hand on the table as he snapped, "What could possibly be more important than an attempted hostage and ransom?" He felt himself age dramatically from the bit of news.
"She had been rescued by some interesting individuals," Varys stated to the Falcon and gained the interest of the others on the table. Varys shifted contently in his seat; he enjoyed knowing what others didn't. He enjoyed when he revealed those things and seeing the expressions of the dumbfounded.
Renly took this time to speak up from his end of the table, "By who, Lord Varys?" Renly typically worried when anything came out of The Spider's mouth. However, it seemed it wasn't a secret of his.
Varys blurted out the song he had heard, "It appears that the saviors come from Shrine Cape." The reactions he received were priceless. Janos looked ready to shit himself at hearing the name. Renly looked surprised with a mixture of excitement. That was one common trait he had with brother the King, adventurers to the end of their days. Jon Arryn looked ready to ride to Bear Island to meet the people himself and see the people from the land Aegon the Unlikely dare not go. Baelish gave him a skeptical look.
Petyr looked at him with a raised eyebrow, "Are you sure these are true? Perhaps your little birds have mistaken?" Petyr, while never a skeptical man when it came to The Spider's information, found this a difficult pill to swallow. He had heard enough stories from his whores in his brothels about men who claimed to have sailed to those lands and come back with barely their lives.
Varys would usually feel insulted by such a proclaim from Baelish, but he understood. It was a subject of taboo to speak of it, even when Targaryens tried to claim the land only to come back with fewer dragons. "My little birds insist on it," Varys stood by his spy's words. Being satisfied, the table looked at Jon for the next course of action.
The old Falcon rubbed his chin with his thumb in thought. He never saw this happening in his lifetime. A chance to meet and form an alliance with a nation that had fought back the Targaryens. "Summon our fastest rider and have them ride to Robert," Jon commanded. If he and Robert could secure an alliance, no one, not even Tywin Lannister, would stand against the kingdom he had built. "I will send him a letter with all the details," with that said, he left without dismissing the council.
Guest Rooms
The party of five sat in a single room, and after having Evetta look for any form of listening or spying devices, they started arguing. "I don't see why we should stay and play nice with locals!" Rowena shouted at Luther and Gwyain. She couldn't understand why they weren't out looking for their wanted man.
Luther was the first to respond as he leaned against the far wall of the room away from everyone else, "Fine, let me ask you this, Rowena." He got up from the wall and strode towards her, "What did the ship look like?" He received no answer, only Rowena scowling. "Which way did they sail?" he asked. Again he was given no answer. Rowena looked away, still not saying anything. "What were their names? All we know is a title?" Luther was now eye to eye with Rowena, who stared down at the hunter. The hunter and warrior constantly butted heads, Rowena was like a hammer always bashing into problems, and Luther was like a knife, sharp and finishing problems with precision.
Rowena sighed and said, "You're right." She sat down in the bed, making the bedframe groan. She crossed her legs before leaning forward, putting her elbow on her knee, and then leaning her chin on her open palm. She cast a sultry glance and found Gwyain glancing at her.
"So, what do we do now?" Selene asked as she started taking off her heavy boots. It was a relief to get them off stretch out her toes.
Gwyain was the one to answer her, "I say we enjoy our host's hospitality and gather information." Gwyain then opened his Bottomless Box, and his outfit changed; he wore a bleach white soldier's jacket, pants, and boots. On his shoulders were golden tassels and his coat was adorned with golden buttons, and his bootlaces were gold. He rolled his shoulders back and to stand straighter. Selene smirked, impressed at the man, and teasingly said, "Show off." Selene then went over to the screen divider. As she passed through and made it to the other side, it was revealed that her outfit had changed. Selene now wore a white, red, and gold outfit that had belonged to her mother. She gave a slight curtsy to her friends before joining Rowena on the bed.
Evetta's head snapped up as she sensed something coming and interrupted them, "Friends, someone approaches." She stared directly at the door, and a second later, a hearty knock rumbled the door. Luther opened the door to find the steward standing there.
Luther looked at the man indifferently before asking rudely, "Yes?" He watched as the man jumped back at the harsh words.
"M'lady summons you to the feast. I'm to escort you," the steward replied in a meek voice.
Luther then slammed the door in the man's face before he turned to his friend and asked, "Shall we?" Luther summoned the Little Ones. His companions watched the tiny, malformed, and emptied-eyed entities come from nowhere. The women had found them to be quite adorable. They pulled articles of clothing from the mist that hid their bottom half. Luther took them and went behind the screen divider, and like Selene, passed through in a new formal outfit. He still wore his tricone hat, but he now wore more formal wear that consisted of a red jacket with blue buttons, beige pants, and brown boots.
Rowena leaned back and sprawled onto the bed. She waved them off and said, "You four go. I'll be along soon." Selene was the first to exit, followed by Gwyain. Luther held back, offering his elbow to Evetta, who took it. A small smile graced her lips as she walked with Luther.
The quartet made it to the main hall and found the feast beginning. They were ushered to the Lord's table. They were greeted by Dacey and Maege, "Welcome." Maege took notice of the missing member, "Where is Lady Rowena?" While she wasn't insulted, she did expect all of her guests to arrive.
Selene answered as Gwyain offered a seat to her, "She will come. She likes to make an entrance." Gwyain then pushed her chair in. She chuckled lightly as the two men from her party smirked. Evetta was gingerly brought to her chair, where Luther pushed her in. Gwyain's giant body made the chair groan lightly underneath him. Luther barely made a sound as he was already in his chair. Maege took notice of their etiquette, noticing how they acted like those of higher birth.
Maege raised a hand, and all the people in the room quieted. When all was silent, she stood and spoke, "It is my pleasure that we honor the people who saved my daughter." That got a series of cheers from the rest people. Smiling, she then shouted, "Let us feast, and tomorrow we hunt more Squids!" The rallying cheers signaled the beginning of the feast.
The small band began to play, their choice of song "The Bear and The Maiden Fair". Dacey glanced and found the guest of honor to be making small talk. She was still awed by these people from Shrine Cape. Never in her life had she seen five people kill a ship full of people, and not one of them die. She leaned in close, so she asked the table, "So tell me, where did you learn to fight like that?" She wanted to hear stories of their lands and maybe some of their adventures.
Gwyain was the first to speak, "Rowena and I learned from our uncle." He returned his attention back to his meal. Dacey paused
"My father and mother taught me," Luther answered simply. He took a cup and drank from it.
"I was taught by a dear friend," Selene revealed while delicately cutting into a piece of chicken. Dacey couldn't be sure, but she was sure Selene's irises changed to red before turning back to brown.
Dacey was beyond disappointed by the lack of detail and adventure. From all the stories she was told about Shrine Cape, she hoped to hear more about the land, people, and culture. "What about you, Evetta?" Dacey asked; she was her last hope.
Evetta hadn't touched the food in front of her. She was more interested in the people and watching those are her. Evetta's head turned daintily and politely as Dacey had ever experienced. Her voice came out harmoniously, "I am no fighter. I am simply here to help my friends." She turned her attention to the bards, enjoying the music.
I called for a knight, but you're a bear! She kicked and wailed, the maid so fair,
A bear, a bear!
All black and brown and covered with hair
But he licked the honey from her hair.
Her hair! Her hair!
He licked the honey from her hair!
Gwyain started to light wrap his hand on the table in tune with the bards as they played. Selene smirked at the giant man's behavior. She had not seen him like this in an incredibly long time. Then she sighed and squealed and kicked the air!
My bear! She sang. My bear so fair!
And off they went, from here to there,
The bear, the bear, and the maiden fair.
The people clapped; some let out some whistles and hollered from some of the people down below. Evetta applauded with them. It wasn't often she got to hear live music. Dacey smiled at the woman's excitement at the bards.
The bards took in the praise before the lute player began to play some softer, slower notes, and then the others took up their own instruments and followed their leader's action. The people became aware of the slow music and the bard's intentions. Maidens asked the boys and men they fancied to dance. Husbands asked their wives to dance, and they laughed like they were young again. This was what Maege fought for, her people who were small, but massive in pride. "May I have this dance?" Luther's voice caught her attention as he asked Evetta to dance.
Maege looked at the man who spoke and inspected him more closely. The man was a rail, but muscle still showed through the man's shirt. She watched as the man asked the woman with the porcelain crème skin to dance. They both went down to dance. Maege watched the man take her hand and move in close. They moved in sync with one another, and they smiled brightly. It made Maege envy the youth for the first time in her long life.
Gwyain's deep voice broke her away from her attentions, "It's been a long time since either of them had enjoyed a time like this." He then dug into a piece of bread.
Maege's interest was piqued. Gwyain was an anomaly to her. Here was a man who looked more mercenary than a man of honor. The man acted like a noble. He was educated and well-spoken. "Tell me Gwyain," she started before leaning towards the man so their conversation would be between them. "What does Luther do?" Maege questioned; she would question these people but not instigate anything. From what Dacey had told her, they could take Bear Island with just their four fighters if these people wanted.
Gwyain's face grew grim as he looked at Luther with a bit of discomfort. "He's a hunter," was as far as he was willing to elaborate. Gwyain was taking a sip of a mug of beer as he looked down at his friends dancing. Remembering back to the stories he heard from his uncle's time in the royal court, this was the fun side of it. Feasts, dancing, and merriment were something he spoke of often.
Gwyain and Rowena's uncle was a difficult person. He was strict when it came to their training, leaving both their bodies bruised and full of aches. While he wasn't abusive, his standards were high. If he felt either of them lacking in their training, it would become longer and more brutal. The man was a loyal warrior to him and Rowena, just like he was once to their parents.
The doors to the hall opened, and every head turned towards it. In walked in Rowena in a Baby Blue dress that showed an ample amount of skin from her neck to the top of her breasts. Her black hair had been curled and framed her face. She had taken the breath away from all the men in the room and garnered the envy of all women. She strode into the room and up to the Lord's table. Gwyain was up in an instant to greet her, "M'Lady." She smiled warmly as she accepted her seat.
Maege smirked at the woman. She knew how to make an entrance. "We missed you with the others," the older woman spoke.
Rowena lowered her head apologetically and said, "Forgive me, I had arrived earlier, but I found myself lost in that beautiful song." Maege was smiling at her, telling her that she had offended anyone.
Dacey interjected, "You enjoyed that old tune?" Dacey had found "The Bear and The Maiden Fair" to be humorous, but a great song it was not.
Selene spoke up, "It was lovely!" The woman had found the tone much more entertaining than the usual drape that came from Shrine Cape.
Rowena smiled as she leaned her head on her palm. "Music is a thing of power," Rowena started. "Music is the way people tell stories, inspire and deliver warnings," Rowena said ominously as she followed Gwyain's eyes, landing on Luther and Evetta dancing with one another.
Dacey grew interested in what Rowena said and asked, "What is music like in your lands?" If she could even hear a tiny bit about the uncharted land, she would be happy.
Rowena was about to speak but was cut off. "Why don't you sing a song, Rowena?" It was Gwyain shooting her a devious smirk. He loved to hear her sing, and he loved to get her to share her extraordinary gift. Selene was laughing joyfully at the antics of the two.
Rowena bit out, "You son of a…."
"You can sing?" Maege stopped her from finishing. With her own curiosity peak, she continued, "Why not sing us a song of your people, child."
Rowena was about ready to rush up to her room and find her blades to stab her leader. She shot him a glare that looked to kill a dragon. The man was unaffected by the glare and motioned for her to go. She was about to tell him off when Dacey's voice called out, "Please, I bet you will be really good." She let out a sigh at Dacey's plea, and her excited expression made it impossible for Rowena to decline.
She got up from her seat and made her way to the bards. She slapped Gwyain on his shoulder as she passed. She passed Luther, who was escorting Evetta back to the table. "What are you doing?" Luther asked the warrior.
"Gwyain wants me to entertain the locals," was her sharp response as she rushed past.
Evetta smiled, walking with her arm looped around Luther's, "This is quiet the treat." The duo took their places at the table with Gwyain and began waiting for their companion to perform.
"I can't remember the last time she sang," Selene said while fidgeting in her seat. Selene saw Rowena as more than a warrior but a gentle maiden that enjoyed the little things.
Rowena came up to the bards and asked them for a favor, "Can you play the lute in a low tone and a slow pace?" She received a nod from the lute player. She then turned to the drummer and questioned, "Just a single steady beat, if you would be so kind." The drummer was enamored by the woman's beauty and nodded dumbly. She then took the spot of the singer. She cleared her throat before signaling the other member to play.
The melody of the instruments filled the room with discomfort. The notes from the lute and the beats from the drum blended together, making everyone in the hall feel they were surrounded by danger. Their focus was drawn to Rowena, who began to sing:
I've walked the coiling lines
Set back a hundred times
Winding through worlds of weary kings
Another crumbling hall
Another humbling fall
Once more the mourning bells will ring
Luther, Selene, and Evetta closed their eyes and enjoyed the haunting words of their land. This was commonly sung among the people of their lands. However, when Rowena sang it, it mattered more.
But I won't be kept down
I'll just keep on rising
Failure ever fading
Growth in every pain
I won't be kept down
Embers keep igniting
Suns will sink to shade
But always rise again
Gwyain was not surprised by Rowena's choice of song, it was a favorite of hers and his. She was dazzling when she sang, it was like looking at a goddess. She deserved the people's attention, and she was rewarded with it.
I've been a ghost of flame
A fading fire to claim
Lost in a world of aching shame
Dacey had never felt such powerful words before in her life. She heard Ned Stark and King Robert Baratheon speak. Neither of them held the authority that Rowena now had. She couldn't take her eyes away in fear of missing something magical.
But I won't be kept down
I'll just keep on rising
Failure ever fading
Growth in every pain
I won't be kept down
Embers keep igniting
Suns will sink to shade
But always rise again
Like everyone else, Maege had been captured by the woman's harmonic words. However, unlike everyone else, she took notice of the words of the song. Curses? Fading sun? Mourning Bells? Lost in a world of aching shame? It seemed the rumors that had been spread about that land were watered down. She wondered what kind of dark and magical place her guest's homeland was like. Aegon the Conqueror was right to leave that land alone.
Look to the sun
Hollow is the curse
Now the end has begun
Once more to the first
Look to the sun
Hollow is the curse
Beaten back, overrun
Evetta felt the heart of the child that was singing. The young woman was singing in honor of a hero. Rowena was just like the rest of the children with her. She smiled, children, that is what she thought of all of them. They were friends, family, and children. She had love for all of them, and they loved her in their own way. Luther was special to her. She swore an oath to aid all hunters, but he was left in her care by her most dearest hunter. Just like the man Rowena sang about, her dearest friend was a hero.
But I won't be kept down
I'll just keep on rising
Failure ever fading
Growth in every pain
I won't be kept down
Embers keep igniting
Suns will sink to shade
But always rise again
Rowena finished, the music died down, leaving the hall quiet. She had closed her eyes and didn't notice due to being lost in the song. When she opened them, she found the eyes of everyone on her. She saw a wide number of expressions of awe and surprise. Then a single set of clapping was heard off in the hall. Rowena glanced, seeing it Gwyain who was standing. His applause became infectious. She basked in the glory that was bestowed upon her. It felt great to have the attention on her instead of Gwyain, Luther, or Selene.
Rowena bowed and made her way back to the table where she was greeted by Evetta first, "Young Wolf, that was astounding." She then curtsied to Rowena, who hugged the doll. The doll gave a pause before returning the action. Rowena went to take her seat, but not before brushing her palm onto his back and smirking as she sent chills down the big man's spine. Selene winked at her, and Luther tipped his hat to her.
Dacey was upon her as soon as she sat, "By the Old Gods! You have the heart of a warrior but the voice of a virgin maiden!" Dacey cheered loudly again before clapping for her new idol. Dacey at first, was impressed by them all, but Rowena had opened her eyes to what she could be as a woman. While she could be a battle-hardened warrior, she could still be a charming beauty of a woman.
Gwyain sighed as he leaned back in his chair as he said, "Today was a good rest. Tomorrow we start hunting." He then downed a mug of beer and wiped his mouth with the back of his hand. He gained the attention of Maege and Dacey.
Luther then grew a malicious grin that made the mother and daughter duo uneasy. "That right, tomorrow we hunt," Luther stated in a tone that promised pain to his prey.
Maege remembered something important and asked, "You know the name of the person you seek?" Maege felt like berating herself for not asking that after knowing what they sought. However, she was taken aback by the reveal of their origins.
Selene answered with a bitter expression, "Only an alias." She then pushed herself away from the table in disgust. "That fucking title!" Selene spat as she took her knife and stabbed it into the table. She then pushed off the table and spat out, "Fucking Crow's Eye." Selene made a promise to make the man bleed when she saw him again.
"Crow's Eye?" Maege asked in disbelief. Maege felt a rush of satisfaction course through her.
"You know him?" Gwyain asked and leaned forward, hoping to gain a lead. The others of Gwyain's group leaned in as well. Maege smiled as she knew she could sway these people to her Lord's cause. Without a doubt, in her mind, the Ironborn would be brought to heel.
Past the Twins
Ned Stark managed to negotiate it past The Twins. The Twins, also known as the Crossing, is the name of the fortified river crossing on House Frey's territory in the Riverlands. The bridge that one must use in order to cross the Twins has benefitted House Frey because they charge hefty fees for anyone to cross it. It was the home of House Frey. The current leader Walder Frey was a disgusting weasel in the shape of a man. The gross individual fathered enough trueborn and bastard sons to make his own personal army. Walder tried to negotiate that one of his younger sons be made a squire to Ned, but he rejected it.
Ned had to offer them protection from the coming Ironborn raids. He was to meet Robert near Seagard. He was to meet Robert there to hold the line. Ned had gotten a letter from Robert explaining spies for the Crown had gotten word that a main force of the Ironborn was to land there. While it was war that would bring them back together, Ned couldn't help but smile at the thought of meeting his brother in all but blood again. It had been many years since they had met, and if the reports were accurate, Robert couldn't get off the throne fast enough to go to war.
He sat in the tent that had been set up for him. He wanted to be anywhere but in the woods. He wanted to be at his home with his pregnant wife, son, daughter, and nephew. He sank further in his prepared chair. His nephew or his "bastard son," as the people called him. Jon Snow was the name Ned gave him, but his given name was Jaehaerys Targaryen, the son of his sister Lyanna Stark and Prince Rhaegar Targaryen. He was the rightful heir to the Iron Throne but had lost it to the Right of Conquest. Ned had wished he didn't have to bear such a secret, but he made a promise. "Promise me, Ned," was his sister's dying words, and he would honor them to his dying breath.
Ned was drawn out of his thoughts when one of his guards came into the tent. "My lord, we have messenger calling to deliver a letter," the guard informed.
Ned stared at the guard, taken back in confusion. He had not even sent out a letter to his wife, and he hadn't declared where he was. "Send him in," Ned commanded tiredly. The guard disappeared before coming back with a young man who looked ready to collapse. The young man held the letter out for Ned to take. Ned absent-mindedly looked the letter over and asked, "Where does it hail from?" His eyes went to the seal on the front of the letter. The seal was that bear standing on its hind legs. The seal was unbroken, showing it was not tampered with.
The messenger answer, "From Bear Island, m'lord. From Lady Maege."
Ned nodded to the man before giving orders to his guards, "Summon Jorah. It is from his people. He has a right to hear what they say. And give this man some food and a warm place to sleep." The guard nodded before beckoning the messenger to follow.
Ned inspected the letter, curious as to why Maege would send a letter to the North's main forces. "Lord Stark?" Jorah asked as he entered, bringing Ned out of his train of thought.
Ned warmly invited the man to sit with him, "Sit, there is news from Bear Island?" Ned then tore the message opened and what he found shocked him. The letter read:
Ned,
My daughter had been taken hostage by the Ironborn. However, she and her crew had been saved by five individuals. According to my daughter, four of these people are warriors of great measure. She returned to Bear Island with her saviors, and it was revealed that these people hail from Shrine Cape! I believe it is necessary to bring these warriors to our cause. If there is even a once of truth in what my daughter has told me, these people will be key to shortening the war.
Ned reread the letter four more times to comprehend it. "By the Old Gods," he let out in a whisper as he inhaled sharply with his other palm covering his mouth.
Jorah leaned forward in his chair in confusion, "What!?" Ned wordlessly handed the man a letter. Jorah's eyes rapidly scanned the letter and had an identical reaction to the letter.
"Is it true?" Ned asked abruptly.
Jorah took offensive to his liege's words. "Have you ever known my aunt to make up lies?" Jorah challenged. His aunt was many things, but a liar was not one of those things.
Ned nodded in agreement and apologized for his rudeness, "You're right." He needed to meet these people. If they were from the forbidden land, then they must be some powerful people. "Send a messenger back, tell her I wish to meet these people," Ned commanded to Jorah, who bowed his head in acceptance.
Ned watched the Lord of Bear Island leave but heard a familiar booming voice, "Ned! You bastard!" Coming into his tent was Robert Baratheon in all his glory. His armor was a little tight, but that was to be expected when sitting around on a throne. The man looked older, but he still had his strength as his war hammer was in his hand.
"My King," Ned said while taking a knee in front of the man.
With an aggravated growl, Robert spoke, "Get your ass up and come greet me!" The Stag King then went over and hugged the Quiet Wolf. "Nine years! Ned! Gods, it's just like old times!" Robert let out before letting out a hearty laugh.
Ned joined in his friend's laughter before he got back to the problem at hand. "Robert, I bring news that I think you will find interesting," Ned tried to speak but was met with Robert's usual antics.
"Is it a big-titted whore?" Robert jokes with a hungry grin.
Ned sighed internally at that comment. The one fault Ned found with Robert was his appetite for women. Ned loved Robert like one of his own brothers, but he was now a king with a queen. He swallowed the remarks and said, "Bear Island has recently been entertaining guests that I think you will find interesting." Ned hooked Robert with that tidbit of information.
"Who?" Robert asked, slightly intrigued by Ned's seriousness. Ned had known that very little interest outside the simple pleasures of life. Ned could not wait to see Robert's face when he informed him about people coming from Shrine Cape. Robert had heard stories of that land, and he wanted to go there in his youth. Ned couldn't wait to see his friend's expression when he told him that people from that land were coming.
The Pyke
Balon Greyjoy, self-proclaimed King of the Iron Islands, sat in his throne room. He had summoned his zealot of a brother, Aeron, and his two oldest sons Rodrik, and Maron. The reason behind the summons; the return of his youngest brother, Euron. The little shit had ransacked Lannister Port, like he was told, and then quickly disappeared without a word for months. Balon had sent out ships to find his conniving brother, but they could not find him, and now the little welp just appeared out of blow and called a meeting. Balon snorted; his brother still had the nerve to summon him, his King, for a meeting. Then the little shit had the nerve to be late.
"Father, shall I go fetch him?" Maron asked, eager to do his father and King's bidding.
Balon snorted his second eldest son, always looking to prove himself and make him proud. What would make Balon proud was if Maron killed some noble lords and took some of their daughters as hostages. "Shut it, boy. If I want something. I'll ask Rodrik," Balon spat out as his oldest son raised his chin proudly. Balon had given a significant role in leading the charge at Seagard.
Slow, steady clapping came from a shadowy hall that was one of the few entrances to the makeshift throne room. Euron came out, and he saw the shocked expression of his family. He smiled and toothy smile making his nephews uneasy. His priest and King, however, were not intimidated in the least. "Dear, family!" Euron cheered as he opened his arms. He then came up to his brother or King, as it were. "Did you miss me?" Euron asked with a confident smirk. Euron didn't care for his brother's welcome. He had something that he couldn't wait to share.
His oldest nephew greeted with a simple nod, "Uncle."
Aeron looked at Euron with a critical eye. He sensed something unholy about his younger brother. The men of the Iron Islands were blessed by the Drowned God, and he could hear his voice in the waves that crashed upon the shore of the island. However, he could not feel his god's blessing on his brother. Warily he greeted, "Brother." Aeron would make sure his brother was brought back to the side of the Drowned God.
Balon grumbled at his brother's appearance, he still wore his usual sailing outfit. He could have worn something formal or clean for his King. Balon didn't take kindly to the slight and sneered before saying, "And where the fuck you've been?" Balon got right to the point. "You raided Lannister Port and never came back," Balon stood from his makeshift throne and was stared his youngest brother in the eye. The two men stared each other down, the King not liking his subordinate going off without telling him and his brother, who didn't care for anyone's whims but his own.
Euron scoffed before stepping back, "I did what I always do, brother." He then walked over to Balon's throne, inspecting it and being disappointed by it. "I sailed across the seas," Euron finished as he kicked the leg of the "throne". Scuffing at his brother's complacency for a simple wooden chair, sending out raiding parties to small villages and some fancy port when he could have the Iron Throne.
"Where?" Balon barked out, tired of the games.
Euron grew a lopsided grin as he said, "To Shrine Cape, of course." The reaction from his family was priceless. His family were like a bunch of babes suckling at their woman's breasts.
Aeron was the first to react, "Have you lost what little you have left of your mind?" Aeron didn't follow the Seven or the High Septon, but he followed in their belief that the land was cursed.
Maron looked in awe at his uncle. Being the "spare" in line for the Iron Island's throne, he wished to follow the way of life. He wanted adventure, treasure, and many salt wives. "What was it like?" Maron asked eagerly, wanting to know what the mysterious land was like and if his uncle conquered it.
Euron gained a disturbing expression as he walked towards his younger nephew. Maron looked perplexed as his uncle patted his right shoulder and said, "A place you should hope to never go." Euron walked away from his younger nephew, leaving the young man confused.
Aeron was slightly taken aback by his younger brother's quick change of behavior. However, he wanted to know something, "Do you have proof of this?" While he knew his brother was mad enough to go to the cursed land, but he was a natural liar.
Euron had waited for this moment as his lips curled upwards. "Of course," right on cue, two of Euron's muted men came in carrying a box. The two dropped the box in front of the family before disassembling it. When the box was gone, all that was left was a cylindrical object covered by a simple white sheet before skulking out of the room. Balon took notice of how careful the men were to not touch the object.
Rodrik walked towards the sheet before looking at his uncle and asking, "What is this?" Rodrik was expecting something magical from the legendary land. Euron came next to his nephew before grasping the sheet. The members of the family waited with bated breath as Euron smirked before he ripped the cloth off, revealing a cage?
The hexagonal iron cage was about three feet tall and the bars were made of raw iron set up in a similar style to a birdcage. A locking mechanism at the bottom allowed it to close around someone's neck. The top of the cage was similar to that of a crown with two metal clasps.
Balon looked at it with a sneer, disappointed that this was the proof his brother had brought with him. "What is this?" Balon demanded, annoyed that his brother had wasted his time. Even Maron looked disappointed at the object of interest.
Euron placed his hand on top of the cage and caressed it affectionally. In a euphoric tone, he began, "This is the key to helping us win this war?" Euron then felt the familiar rush from the object, making him sigh in pleasure. It was better than any woman or girl he ever had.
Rodrik shared his father's disappointment as he got in close to inspect the cage himself. "How is an old, rotted cage going to help us win this war?" He then gave a swift kick to it, testing to see if it fell apart.
That was a mistake as Rodrik was violently grabbed by his tunic and found a knife near his throat. Euron looked at him, and Rodrik saw the calm man was now beyond agitated. Everyone else looked ready to call the guards, but it was not needed. Euron then shoved his nephew away from the cage. Euron pointed his finger at him and issued a warning, "Don't do that again." Then just as calm as always, Euron puts his knife back to the sheath on his hip. Rodrik rubbed his throat as a comfort and to make sure no blood was drawn.
Aeron took a look at the cage as well. It was odd, to say the least. Maron wasn't sure, but he swore he felt something. Something dark, twisted, and disturbing. "What do you expect us to do? Wear it?" Aeron asked, getting a chuckle from Balon.
Euron smirked at their ignorance. Euron flourished his hand in the direction of the cage. "Place your hand on it," he said simply. Euron smirked as Aeron stepped forward with his hand out. Aeron was just about to touch the cage, but his god's whispering made him redraw his hand. Aeron never noticed Euron beside him, and he caught his wrist. "Don't be afraid," Euron's voice was not soothing as Aeron realized this was what he wanted. An insane gleam set in his eyes as he slammed Aeron's hand on the top of the cage. "Let it grant you eye!" he shouted in the priest's face.
Aeron didn't feel anything at first, but then came the whispers and voices.
"Our eyes have yet to open."
"Ooh! Majestic! A hunter is a hunter, even in a dream!"
"Dear, oh dear. What was it? The Hunt? The Blood? Or the horrible dream?"
His mind filled with visions. A small fishing hamlet that was discredited and is now inhabited by walking monstrosities. Then came a cathedral with a woman that looked to be priest robes, her prayers echoing through it, but went unheard. A graveyard where a priest desecrated the dead, a woman laid dead on a small shed in the corner, a ruby pendent clung to her chest. Aeron couldn't handle it as he screamed in agony, making the other three men in the room recoil.
"What the fuck have you done, Euron!?" Balon shouted as he watched Aeron convulse on the ground while holding his head.
Euron's grin twisted insanely at the turn of events. "Come now, brother, don't you wish to have eyes?" On cue, buzzing came from the halls that connected to the throne room. Monsters with the body of humans covered with robes and with heads of giant flies with multiple yellow eyes came into the room. Immediately seeing the Greyjoys, they charged. Rodrik drew his sword, standing in front of his brother and father. "Stop!" Euron shouted, and the beasts did as they were told. Euron walked, and they parted for him, a slight bow in their posture.
Balon, Rodrik, and Maron all looked terrified up at Euron. Balon had pushed forward both his sons to act as shields. Euron looked at the blade his nephew held, it trembled slightly, and Rodrik was looking at the monsters that stood off to the side. Euron slashed his dagger at the sword, making it fly out of Rodrik's trembling hand. He grabbed Rodrik by his chest plate, pulled him in, and headbutted him, causing him to fall to the ground. Euron laughed at the pitiful display from his family.
Balon did not like the hungry expression from his brother as he frighteningly asked, "What are these things, Euron?" The beasts continued to buzz at them expectingly. While Balon knew his brother was mad and power-hungry, he didn't expect Euron to be a kinslayer.
Euron smirked proudly and in false respect, "These are gifts to you, brother. A gift for my King!" Euron gave a mock bow before he turned to the side to present Aeron. His body bent and twisted, the bones cracking as his arms shifted to hold his body up. Aeron pushed his legs, so he was now on all fours like a dog. Aeron's head twisted like an owl, so it was facing Balon. Aeron's mouth opened, and Balon saw eyes growing on his tongue.
Fearfully Maron asked his uncle, "What are you going to do us?" Balon had wanted to ask himself but didn't want to take his eyes off the monstrosity his middle brother turned into.
Euron was glad someone asked him that. His new god needed new followers, and the cage was going to be his provider. "Open your eyes!" Euron cheered as a Garden of Eyes grabbed Maron, who screamed and squirmed. The boy put up a pathetic fight as he Euron laughed insanely as he strode towards the cage, took Maron's hand, and pressed it to the cage. The screams he made were a symphony of madness to Euron's ears. The Pyke would have a new king after this day.
AN: So who else witnessed that incredible trailer for Elden Ring? I have not been so hyped for a game in my life. I cannot wait to see the writing the George RR Martin did for the game. This looks like a different game, and I, for one, cannot wait. Here are the characters and their gear, just to remind you. If you are curious about the song that Rowena sings, it's "Embers Rise" by Miracle of Sound. Also, here is the cast in case you want a visualization.
Aeron Greyjoy – Michael Feast
Balon Greyjoy – Patrick Malahide
Rodrik Greyjoy – Eamon Farren
Maron Greyjoy – Jasper Pääkkönen
Luther – Yharnam Hunter Set, Burial Blade, Hunter's Pistol.
Rowena – Helm of Artorias, Lord Blades Robe, Undead Legion Gauntlets, Undead Legion Leggings. Gold Tracer and Dark Silver Tracer.
Gwyain – Dragonscale Armor, Dragonscale Waistcloth with golden boots, Dragonslayer Gauntlets. Sunlight Straight Sword, Sunlight Shield.
Selene – Dark Silver Armor, Gauntlets, Boots, Maiden Astraea's hood. Geri's Stiletto, Hands of God.
Knox