Sister's Keeper Sister's Keeper
Disclaimer: I do not own Game of Thrones
Chapter 109: The Arrival of the Noble Houses
Alysanne's POV
Cersei was found dead. The Maester who delivered also did the examination, as he ruled it to be complications after childbirth. He ignored the stab wound in her chest and bruising around Cersei's neck. The Maester and Silent Sisters did an excellent job covering it up before presenting Cersei for her funeral. It was small, kept in a chamber that groups attend at a time. However, there weren't a lot of people who participated in the seven days of mourning.
There was a minor hiccup at Cersei's funeral. Apparently, there were no Septons in King's Landing. Then again, Cersei did blow up the Great Sept of Baelor, murdering those who lived there, along with the council who resides in each Kingdom. As Varys informed if not reminded me about the High Sparrows and the Faith Militant. Varys suggested skipping the theatrics and allow Ser Jaime to take Cersei's remains to Casterly Rock and have him figured out he burial ritual.
Yet, I was one for traditions. Until Varys let it slide that the previous High Septon was in the Black Cells. I was utterly baffled to hear of this and rushed to get His High Holiness out. Why in the Seven would the High Septon be lock in a Black Cell? Based on the information, His High Holiness participated in fornication with whores at the brothels and blasphemed as the whores were dressed as the Seven. The Sparrows had him walked the streets naked while shaming him. Follow by Cersei in her attempt to manipulate the High Sparrow and his birds by putting His High Holiness in a Black Cell as punishment for breaking his vows.
When we got him out, he was pale and frail—no longer represented as the avatar for the gods but a mortal man. Immediately, I had the Maester treated him, and servants tend to him. It would be the next day did I meet His High Holiness more civilized than the day before. He begged for forgiveness for his transgressions, not wanting to go back to the Black Cells. I assured His High Holiness he was not going back to the Black Cells and gave him the option to either be reinstated to his position as the High Septon and never sin again or retire in a cottage where he can live out the rest of his days.
The Black Cells must have changed him, for he has accepted the offer and performed Cersei's funeral as the Silent Sisters did their ritual. Jorah found the irony that the Septon who is conducting Cersei's funeral is the man she arrested. A slight insult to the dead. Either way, I follow tradition with my religious beliefs, even towards my enemy.
Tyrion and Ser Jaime appreciated it. Despite Cersei not being devout towards the Faith, it saved what little reputation she had left. However, we all knew where Cersei's Lannister soul lies in one of the Seven Hells. They knew their sister did not die from natural causes, but they were not idiots to speak it out.
Even Arya attended one of the days of the funeral. However, I think it was a case of confirming her enemy's death. Jon held some speculations but did not say a word about how the Lannister Queen died. Practically everyone who was Cersei Lannister's enemy was happy she was dead.
I can already imagine Lady Olenna's voice saying, "Blast, I didn't get a chance to tell her it was I who poisoned Joffrey."
Some secrets are meant to be silent to one's grave.
Anyway, the people of King's Landing were happy and somewhat disappointed that Cersei Lannister was dead. I'm glad she was gone, though disappointed that she did not die from public execution. After killing so many people and the abuse of power, could you blame them? Immediately after the capture, the city searched for any remains of wildfire. Some locations did not go off, that we collected them and have them shipped to a barren island on the coast to be rid of. No longer will wildfire remain in King's Landing. Not for a third time.
Time seemed to pass as the Kingdom gets ready for the coronation. Many nobles have arrived, from allies to Great Houses. The First to arrive was House Martell, as Quentyn introduced his remaining family. His father, Prince Doran Martell who was a wheelchair user due to his condition of gout. And the heiress to Dorne, Princess Arianne Martell.
"Welcome to King's Landing," I greeted my distant cousins. "I hope your travels were well?"
"Thank you, your grace," Prince Doran replied. "The waters were kind."
I nodded, pleased to hear that.
"Never would I see the day that justice has been brought to my family," Prince Doran said.
"I'm sure Elia, Rhaenys, Aegon, and Ser Lewyn can finally be at peace," I replied. "Along with Prince Oberyn who brought the corruption to light."
"How did the Mountain die?" Princess Arianne asked.
"By the hands of his brother, Sandor Clegane," I answered.
"The Hound?" Princess Arianne gasped.
I nodded, "And to ensure his death, his body was burned. Never to return."
Prince Doran nodded, "All who wrong us are gone."
I can only nod since Tywin Lannister, The Mountain, and King Ares, who were part of the sacking, were dead. The men involved could never bring back the Martells and Elia's children, yet knowing those involved ceased to excise. Along with those who betrayed House Martell in the death of Prince Trystane and his betrothal Myrcella Baratheon.
The Second House to arrive was the Tyrells. Ser Garlan was ecstatic to see his wife that he did not restrain himself and rushed over, kissing her before anyone could come out of the carriage. Many chuckled at this; then again, months can feel like years when you are separated in times of war.
Leonette came out with her husband, as did the handmaidens who accompany Lady Olenna. Ser Garlan helped the ladies down and offered an arm to a man. The man was tall and lean with dark hair and eyes, with a groomed beard. What stood out from him was that he had a cane and his right leg in a brace. This man must be Lord Willas. The Lord of Highgarden turned to offer a hand to the door where a young woman came out. She was average size though, with her height, she seems short to her husband. She had dark curls kept in a Reach style, pale skin dusted with freckles, yet her eyes were a vibrant blue. What stood out was a prominent pregnant belly.
She must be Lady Elain, Ser Wensington's daughter, and Lord Willas's wife. Afterward, both Tyrell's men came to the carriage door aiding their grandmother Lady Olenna.
Once they have assembled, they made their way towards the gate. Ser Garlan made the introductions.
"Your Grace, you have already met my grandmother, the Lady Olenna," Ser Garlan started. "May I introduce you to my wife, Lady Leonette."
"A pleasure," Lady Leonette greeted with a curtsy.
"Along with the Lord Commander of the Reach, my brother Lord Willas of House Tyrell, and his wife, Lady Elain," Ser Garlan added.
Lord Willas and Lady Elain gave a proper greeting.
"Thank you for coming," I replied.
"It is an honor to be here, your grace," Lady Elaine said.
I nodded and glanced at Lady Olenna, "Was your travel well?"
"Well, well as it can be on the Goldroad with a crowded carriage," Lady Olenna replied.
I restrain a chuckle, "Your apartments are set with accommodations. I assure the staff to have tea ready along with figs."
Lady Olenna nodded in approval. "Good, I could use a good cup of tea right now."
Lord Willas was about to say something, but his wife gave him a warning look. I bit back a smile, making a mental note to invite the ladies over for tea with Princess Arianne.
Aware of how exhausted they must be from traveling during the winter, I had the servants escort them to their chambers as I remained to continue greeting the guest for the upcoming coronations.
.o0o.
The young Lord of House Velaryon arrived, as the preadolescent Lord Monterys arrived with apparent Valyrian features of white hair. Yet, his eyes were sea-green instead of purple. Captain Aurane stood next to his nephew. The young Lord was nervous, blush dusting his cheeks as he saw me. Jorah, who stood next to me, couldn't hold back a chuckle as has Captain Aurane. I merely smiled at the boy.
"Welcome to King's Landing, Lord Monterys of House Velaryon," I greeted.
The boy blushed and gave a bow, "Your grace…. uh…thank you for inviting me."
It was tough not to chuckle, yet I managed to suppress it, "The honor is mine. Your uncle speaks highly of you."
Lord Monterys blush deepened as he glanced at his uncle. Captain Aurane merely shrugged. To save the boy from his misery, he and Captain Aurane were escorted to their chambers. Once they were out of hearing, Jorah spoke out;
"I think I might have a rival," he teased.
"Sadly, I'm taken… carrying my husband's child," I countered.
"I'm surprised not many have noticed," he said.
"Other than Missandei, Jon, and the Maester," I clarified. "Although, I think women have their suspicions." I'm surprised Varys and Tyrion haven't noticed. Unless Varys noticed but haven't said anything respecting my wishes if Tyrion had heard, he would have been dumbfounding in the length of the pregnancy, and I went into battle pregnant.
"We should tell your council," Jorah murmured.
"Oh, couldn't we just wait until I'm rounded as a melon," I jested?
Jorah chuckled, shaking his head.
I pouted, "It's one secret I enjoy sharing with few."
Jorah shook his head, "If we were on Bear Island and not soon to be rulers of Westeros, I would have allowed it…until all the wives confront you."
I sighed, "Fine, I'll inform the small council after the coronation."
Jorah nodded as he grew severe as more guests approached us to be greeted. It was Ser Terrance with a representative. Apparently, Lord Ardrian was not able to attend due to his health. Although, knowing how stingy the man was on money, he probably didn't want to waste funding on a ship to arrive. I sighed, knowing I can't ask so much from Lord Celtigar after lending his navy and grandson.
.o0o.
The following day I invited several ladies for tea. They being Lady Olenna, Lady Elain, Lady Leonette, and Princess Arianne. Varys had informed there was a slight animosity between the Tyrells and Martells. Over how Prince Oberyn crippled Lord Willas in a jousting tournament. What should have led to a rivalry between the men did not happen. As Varys stated, Prince Oberyn got his Maester to treat Willas immediately and sent the finest Maester to save Lord Willas's leg within that year. The two formed a friendship, despite the Tyrell family protest. So, I was not surprised when Lady Olenna 'kindly' refused the invitation, stating she was exhausted from her 'constant' travels. Therefore, Leonette and Elain attended.
Princess Arianne was the first to arrive, "Queen Alysanne, thank you for your invitation."
"Thank you for attending," I replied, standing up. "If I recall correctly, we used to play together."
She nodded with a sad smile, "With Rhaenys."
I nodded, despite my memory of the event gone… the knowledge that there was a connection between us through Rhaenys. However, that was a long time ago.
"I'm surprised you remember that," Princess Arianne said as she gestured to sit down.
I nodded as we sat, "There are some things that are hard to forget."
"Finally, women will be ruling Westeros," Princess Arianne murmured. "You as Queen of the Six Kingdoms. From what I hear, Yara Greyjoy is Queen of the Iron Islands. And when the time comes, I being the Lady Commander of Dorne."
"The Lords will fear us," I joked as I poured Arianne a cup of tea.
She watched as her eyes linger on a white ring she wore. A moment later, she glanced up, accepting the cup of tea. It must be some kind of stone that senses poison or something along with those term.
"Along with how the alliance," she reminded. "Our children married when the time comes. If I ever married."
"How so?" I asked.
"My father wants to make sure the man I marry will honor House Martell, even giving up his name to secure our own. Since in Dorne inheritance is by birth order, not gender."
"Indeed," I muttered. "Were you aware of my brother and a possible engagement?"
Princess Arianne nodded, "Oh, I was furious when I found out. At first, I thought my father was going to hand over my title inheritance to Quentyn. I was close to forging a coup to overthrow my father before it happened. Even confronted him about it until he told me the truth and showed the documents."
I nodded, "I would say this… he would make your life difficult."
"Let's pray our children to have a better relationship than what we had in arrange marriages," Princess Arianne said, taking a sip of her tea.
Once more, I nodded, taking a sip as well.
It wasn't long when Lady Leonette and Lady Elain. Leonette helped Lady Elain as she tried to give a curtsey.
"Oh, no need for that in your condition," I assured.
"Thank you, your grace," Lady Elain said as she and Leonette took a seat on another lounge. She turned her attention to Princess of Dorne. "Princess Arianne."
"Lady Elain," Princess Arianne replied with a nod. "Lady Leonette."
"Are you two acquainted?" I asked, noticing the slight familiarity in their voices.
"Oh, Lady Elaine and I shared a few conversations at tournaments in Blackhaven. Due to our status," Princess Arianne explained.
"There are some bonuses in being the cadet branch of House Baratheon," Lady Elain added.
True House Wensington is a cadet branch of House Baratheon, explaining the same stags on Wensington Shield.
"I see," I said.
"Elain, how in the Seven did you get your hands on Westeros richest bachelor?" Princess Arianne asked in a playful manner. "I tried running away to him, and that failed. So how did you do it?"
"Oh, um… we just keep crossing paths," Lady Elain answered.
"But how did you first meet?" Princess Arianne pry.
"I was young, it was a tournament in the Reach, and I got separated from my Septa. Being ten years old and lost was terrifying. I thought I saw the House Tudbury tent and my family were friends with them. Sadly, I have mistaken the colors for House Tyrell. So, when I entered, there I found Willas trying to help his brother out of his helmet. That was embarrassing, and Willas kindly helped me find my family's tent. Later on, throughout the years, we kept crossing paths. It wasn't until I was sixteen did things get serious, as I was coming out to society. And by the time I was nineteen, things have gotten serious, yet Lord Mace disapproved since I was from a lesser house and not one of the great houses or rich families."
"And look where you are now, Lady of Highgarden," Princess Arianne cooed.
"And the marriage brings the Stormlands into the war," I added.
"True, but the opportunity wouldn't have been there after the death of his family and my father taking control to maintain order," Lady Elaine stated.
We all nodded as Princess Arianne looked at the other Tyrell woman, "And how did you meet your husband?"
"Oh, we met at a ball, and he was smitten with me that a courtship was made," Lady Leonette explained. "The traditional method, so nothing exciting despite who my husband is."
I chuckled softly.
"How about you, your grace?" Lady Leonette asked. "No one knows much about you than your arrival."
"And rumors of you in Meereen," Lady Elain added.
"Especially your northern husband?" Princess Arianne murmured.
"Well, Ser Jorah and I met at my sister's wedding to Khal Drogo," I answered. "Afterwards, he joined us to be our advisor and protector. Over time we connected."
I wasn't sure how to talk in a feminine way. Sure, I socialized with Daenerys and Missandei. Yet, we were close to one another. Let alone our thoughts were not on girly things. I probably haven't had a conversation like this since Pentos.
Still, the women here are generous, with different topics to discuss, yet more intriguing that Lady Olenna would enjoy. It seems like I found possible friends when they do visit King's Landing.
As time wore on, the tray of tea and sweets became empty.
"Where are the servants?" Princess Arianne bellow as she stood up. "We need more refreshments, or better yet, some wine. Oh, let see if I can get someone to grab Dornish Red."
"Dornish, don't you mean Abro white," Lady Leonette challenged.
"Oh dear," Lady Elain murmured.
"We will see about that," Princess Arianne challenged. "You will go get your bottle, and I shall get mine."
And just like that, the two nobles left the solar room to get their wine. They were leaving Lady Elain and me alone.
"What just happen?" I asked.
"The rivalry of wines," Lady Elain said. "I'm fortunate that the Stormlands were more about Mead and Ale."
I nodded, "It's probably better than fermented milk and pepper beer."
Lady Elain shuddered, mentioning fermented milk. It was one of the three options to drink in the Dothraki Sea when traveling. Water, fermented milk, and pepper beer. So, water on the daily, and pepper beer if I wanted to drink. Until tasting other wines in Qarth and Meereen. As I once enjoy pear brandy. Now I barely drink alcohol; although introducing to cider, I crave that acholic beverage.
"So…" Lady Elain started. "How far along are you?"
"Pardon?" I replied.
"Forgive me," she said. "For some reason, a pregnant woman can tell when another woman is pregnant. I'm surprised Lady Olenna didn't say it allowed yesterday."
"As am I," I sighed. "The Maester assumes I'm about four months."
"Really," she said, surprised.
I nodded; I got pregnant just before leaving the North. With everything that has happened, the stress was confused with the symptoms and how the child is not growing rapidly. Brought back a theory in Lys, that the bigger the belly would be a boy and the small would be a girl. I do not care for the gender of the babe. Though, I heard the servants say boys with Northmen blood tend to grow big in the womb. And from my size, I wouldn't be surprised if it was a girl. All that matters is one of my desires is coming true. Although, due to my condition in the last three months of stress could have played a part in the babe's small development.
"Hopefully, our children can be friends," Lady Elain murmured.
"Hopefully," I agreed. "I'm surprised you came under your condition."
"And missed an opportunity to see a true woman on the Iron Throne," She challenged. "Never. Also, a part of me felt like my husband would be here longer than anticipated."
"What makes you say that?" I asked.
Lady Elain bit her lip hesitating in what she was going to say. She took a deep breath, "I heard Lady Olenna suspecting you would ask my lord husband to be a member of your Small Council."
"Oh," I said. "Truth be told, I'm still debating who to accept."
"My husband is smart. If it weren't for his accident, he wouldn't be as intelligent as he is today. A knight or a scholar, and his intelligence have improved the Reach, especially Highgarden, drastically. Although," she paused, considering her words, and sighed. "I must be the most selfish woman ever. For too long, our courtship lasted, and I finally have him…only to be separated once more, or we live here."
"Lady Elain," I started, placing a hand on her shoulder. "Is there something that happened?"
She took a deep breath, "The war has done so much to us, and I experienced a few things that left a mark."
"So you know, your marriage to Lord Willas helped in Winning the Long Night. The Thousand Stormlander showed a lot of skills," I tried to assure.
Lady Elain snorted, "Want to hear something funny? After a few months of mourning after his father and siblings' death, Willas asked for my father's blessing. Told my brother and father, a dowery was not needed. When Willas asked for my father's army of the best Stormlanders to fight in the Great War and alliance with you…he had his conditions. The first thing he said was, 'If I'm going to join House Targaryen and fight in this supposed war, then you better wed my daughter as soon as possible. Not a year longer. Never has Willas responded so quickly, let alone trying to hide the boyish grin on his face."
I chuckled, trying to imagine that. There was something about Lady Elain that I liked about her. She wasn't girly and held herself with respect, yet shows vulnerability from what I recall; her maiden house was House Wensington, the cadet branch to House Baratheon and house Durrandon. However, her bloodline does not correlate with House Targaryen since Wensington was made after Aegon's Conquest, before Princess Rhaelle's marriage to Ormund Baratheon. Thus, she held the ancient House of Durrandon in her blood and not the dragon unless you count the rumors of Orys Baratheon as Aegon's illegitimate half-brother.
"I can only imagine. It's rare to find men who marry women out of love in the noble class," I said.
"Indeed," she agreed, taking a sip of her tea.
"I might ask your husband to lend favor in restoring the economy as Master of Coin, but I assure you I won't hold him forever," I promised.
Elain only nodded in understanding. House Tyrell knew money better than anyone, especially in the art of business. A business that the realm needed to get back on its feet.
It wasn't long when Lady Leonette and Princess Arianne arrived with their bottles of wine. Therefore, the duel of the best wine commences. Unfortunately, Lady Elain declined since her tastebuds were no longer the same since becoming pregnant; consequently, I had to be the judge. I just pray it doesn't lead to another war.
.o0o.
The guests were arriving, as many attended to see a Targaryen back on the Throne. As Lord Edmure Tully came with his wife, Roslin. Then Lord Robin Arryn, a young man now as Lord Royce, stood next to him. When I met him, I sensed a slight delay or something off about the young man. Varys whispered in my ear that Lady Lysa coddled her son, that maturity is not what it's supposed to be. Yet, the Tribunal is working on it. I nodded, welcoming the young Lord. Then Lord Dickon Tarly arrived, stating he crossed paths with the Northerners saying they were on their way.
Many more attended until one company arrived that had Arya and Jon's attention. The gates open as horses and a wagon entered the courtyard. Ser Jorah stood next to me as we see the banners from House Stark filled the square along with a few small houses. Including house Mormont. In front of the company on a brown horse was none other than Lady Sansa. She held herself proudly and with honor that you wonder how this young woman is the head of House Stark.
No doubt, if Jon decides to abdicate the Throne, then Sansa would be a worthy choice to be the Queen in the North. Jon walked down the steps as he came over to Sansa and helped her off her steed. Lady Brienne demounted and came over to protect her lady. Arya made her way to the house carriage and opened the door as Samwell came out along with his wife and children. I paused for I recalled a young boy, but now the woman, who I believe her name was Gilly held a baby. Jorah gave a glance, wondering if I was aware of this, which I shrugged.
Jon came over to Samwell, giving him a familiar greeting and glance at the babe in Gilly's arm. There was a look of relief, to which I do not understand, as the three laughed and Jon made a face. Afterward, the two men went inside the carriage and brought out Bran with the assistance of Lord Gendry. I was utterly surprised to see Bran here, for I thought he would remain in the North. Seeing that Bran was here, Jorah and I walked down the steps to make things easier for them.
"Lady Sansa," I greeted. "And Lord Bran, welcome to King's Landing."
Lady Sansa paused as she stared at the Red Keep. No doubt, this place held dark memories for her. I hope I provide the proper hospitality that some ghost remains silent.
"Thank you, your grace," Lady Sansa said. "At least I am here under good terms."
"As do I," I replied.
Jorah nodded in agreement as he walked over to his cousin, where Lady Lyanna tried to unmount her horse before he could assist, the she-bear scold.
"I can get down by myself," Lady Lyanna chastised.
"Gods have mercy on her husband," I murmured.
Lady Sansa snorted to that. We may not have a friendship, but we respect one another. It will be a long recovery before Westeros can trust one another. The coronation will be the start of healing the wounds that have transpired nearly twenty-five years ago. It will take time, but it is a start in the right direction.
.o0o.
Missandei's POV
Missandei had snuck into the Royal Apartments and went over to the vanity where a jewelry box was. Quietly she lifted the lid and took out two crystal gems in the shape of sharp teeth. They were the ice dragon's teeth. Missandei was asked to set the design for Queen Alysanne's crown. At first, Alysanne was going to be anointed wearing her mother's travel crown. However, the Small Council felt like wearing that crown might bring back old memories.
Therefore, Varys and Tyrion had asked Missandei to make the crown, well, provide the designs to Durak and other materials. She felt honored to be designing her friend's crown. It is the least she could do before she and Grey Worm head to the Island of Naarth. Something that could remind her friend that she will always be there for her.
So once grabbing the two fangs, she made her way to the forge. The arrival of the guest had made it easy for Missandei to do her plan. Along with spending time with Grey Worm. Missandei wants Alysanne to know her people, a chance to make possible confidants before departure. The thought somewhat saddens Missandei, but she knew it was for the best. Grey Worm, who stood by the door, noticed the two fangs and nodded as the two headed to the forge.
There they found Durak working in the forge. Instead of steel, the man was working with silver, as he melted and weaved the rich material to make a crown. He wasn't alone, though. Standing there polishing the gems was Quaithe. She had attended south, though did not insert herself into the court. In her hand, she was shining a black crystal that was in the shape of an oval. All four of them being familiar with obsidian. On the table, there were small cuts of rubies and amethyst, followed by samples of gold.
"Did you bring the fangs?" Quaithe asked.
Missandei nodded as she handed over the fangs.
Quaithe nodded. They all agreed that people should remember who slew the Ice Dragon, as the Queen wears it. Missandei stared at the crowns. A band and a Targaryen crown. She knew Alysanne wore no crown when she ruled Bay of Dragons. As she remembers Alysanne saying, "I am no true queen here."
And now, Alysanne will become a true Queen of Westeros.
A Quick question… would you all like a mini-story about how Elain and Willas meet and married in this world? I'm curious if you all be interested. I know I have other stories, but the thought has lingered.
Let me know what you think.
Thanks for reading, and please leave a review!