Chapter One: A Baby Born From The Shadows, Fire and Love.
Disclaimer: I do not own Game of Thrones, Naruto and the elements from The Lord of the Rings. They are both owned by their respected creators.
AN: R.I.P J. R. R. Tolkien the goat one of my biggest inspirations for writing. I've always wanted to do a Game of Thrones fic and this one in particular has been a year in the making but it's finally here! Sorry I haven't updated any of my other fics but I've stared to work on the second chapter for all the fics you want an update for.
I would like to thank everyone who has helped me with this fic, from ideas to just helping me write and improve on some existing elements. I really hope you all enjoy it, please let me know your thought in a review or a dm.
If you would like to join AizenTheGoat's discord sever here is the code- /X2rN9ZPb
The salty water of the sea crashed hard against the ironwood from the north. It did little to damage or steer the oncoming ship away from its goal.
A bright-eyed youth that was on the cusps of manhood was watching with great anticipation, sailing closer and closer to their destination.
Asshai.
Most who gazed upon it were left feeling cold, the land looked dark and solemn in appearance. As if any particular happy thought you had was sucked out of you.
"Oi, Minato ya blond cunt, get over here!" With a sigh the youth walked towards the captain, only to have a crate shoved into his hands.
"Are we docking?" The captain just grunted as more and more men started lifting their own crates or sacks.
"Aye. Stick together, and be wary of who you talk to and what you say"
"Aye sir"
The large group of sailors strolled through the market area, taken aback by the many sights and sounds.
Curiosity got the best of most of them, staring at the locals in confusion. Others drooled over all the exposed flesh.
One particularly horny man nudged his superior "Oi, captain you've been here before. How are the women?"
"Can you not think with your cock for a moment? Besides, I doubt they'd want your ugly mug. If anyone is going to get some action it's the bastard" the sailors look soured, grumbling as he curses out his captain and fellow worker.
Minato flushed in embarrassment much to the other men's amusement.
"Fucken pretty boy..."
"You know what I heard about Asshai girls? That they're as beautiful as a Valyrian. Possibly more. Have to cover their face or all the blood would rush to your cock" The blond laughed along with all the other crew members, eyeing off the woman who walked past them.
"That's not what I heard. I heard they're cursed and scared" The debate on whether they were beautiful or hideous seemed to go back and forth, Minato lost interest in it very quickly.
However, something else ensnared it. A small group of women speaking in their native tongue.
He couldn't help but frown, it was unlike anything he had heard before. It strangely enough suited Asshai, cold and dark.
"What are they saying?" Minato's Captain glanced at the group of women briefly before answering, a growl stuck in his throat.
"'Black Speech'"
"'Black Speech'?"
"Aye" Seeing as Minato wasn't going to get any more from the man, looked away, glancing around until he saw something or better to say a flash of someone. The colour red stood out the most to him. It was beautiful, causing a deep desire in himself to run his fingers through it until he fell asleep.
The lure to see more of her was far too great for any man to resist, looking around wildly in hopes of catching another glimpse. He was left feeling disappointed when he couldn't find her.
"Oi Minato get your arse into gear!" With great reluctance, ran to catch up with his fellow sailors, missing the glowing stare watching him from the shadows.
It was now night, the land embraced shadow like an old friend. Leaving the sailors to drink and celebrate a good day of trading. However, not everyone was in high spirits.
Minato drank his ale in silence as he usually did, brooding on what a bastard like himself can do in this world. About who he could love. Unable to help himself, the blond sighed in dissatisfaction, swirling the remainder of his drink, stopping when a darkness crept across his table.
It was her. It was really her. The woman he lost in the crowd, the one he felt a desperate long to find and speak to.
The brief glimpse he got of her, did her no justice. She was enchanting, almost as if she was blessed by one of the Seven.
Hair that was pure crimson and yet somehow blessed by fire, enchanting that desire to run his hand through it once more. Skin a healthy shade of pale and pure as if she bathed in milk every day since her first breath.
Her eyes...her eyes, nothing compared to them. They stole his soul without even trying. Minato knew that he would do anything and everything she asked.
"May I sit with you?" The smitten man shook his head without thinking, mouth still slightly agape much to her amusement. Coughing in his hand to hopefully regain some of his composure.
With a nervous smile, he offered her a seat.
"You speak common?" Her hair danced with her nod, the red curtains revealing more of her neck and shoulders to his hungry eyes.
"I do. You're from Westeros?" Minato shuddered the way she spoke, the way her lips rolled with every word.
"I am, Minato Storm" without a second thought he offered his hand to her, and she took itwithout any hesitation. Running her thumb up and down the edge of his hand.
"Kushina" Minato repeated her name, the words somehow tingling his lips.
They spent the rest of the night just talking and drinking. Enjoying each other's company. Much to the dismay and jealousy of Minato's fellow crew mates.
For the five days when he wasn't with the crew, he was with her and because of that, those five days were the best days of his life.
If anyone were to ask the bastard from Westeros what he had found when he traveled to Asshai, his answer would be possibly his soulmate.
While five days may seem short, no one ever made him feel like this. As if his heart was once cold and lifeless, it was now bursting with life. He didn't feel like a bastard when he was with her, he felt like something more.
Minato was waiting in their favorite spot, each day when he wasn't needed by his captain he would come and wait or she would be there waiting for him.
Lucky enough he didn't have to wait long, with a grace she walked towards him with such a warm and loving smile it left him breathless.
She kneeled down, grasping his hand softly. Minato couldn't stop his soft smile even if he wanted to. She helped pull him to his feet, leading him away from their special spot.
It was a short walk, set in comfortable silence. He did find it a little odd they were leaving their usual spot but he was just happy to be with her.
Minato couldn't help but raise a brow when he saw what looked like a cave entrance, he stopped suddenly surprising Kushina.
"Minato~" the blond flushed at her pout, she was so adorable.
"Kushina, where are we going?" Kushina got a twinkle in her eye, and coming close she whispered in his ear a single word.
"Surprise~"
Minato sighed before smiling again, how could he not? The way she was angled, facing the sun.
She was…so beautiful.
The moment he saw her, he knew that Gods were real because a literal Goddess was standing right before him.
Without hesitation he allowed himself to be pulled into the darkness.
Kushina started humming and chanting in her native language.
He shivered every time she spoke in 'Black Speech'. It was dark and cold but when she spoke in the common tongue, it was as if he was listening to a siren. He would fall completely under her spell.
"Minato~" the blond man's face went bright red, and the way she smiled at him set his blood boiling and made him stiffen.
She continued to drag him by the hand, her skin felt so soft and smooth.
The darkness started to shy away as he finally saw candlelight. The dark cave that spoke of horrors and ugliness was beautiful.
The inside was black as any night sky, with embers that looked like stars, so close he felt like he could cup one with his hand.
Once again his hands felt warm, he felt Kushina's thumb running up and down on his own.
He couldn't believe it. Why would such a woman want anything to do with a Bastard? Even if he had Valyrian features.
Minato decided to no longer think of such things, he didn't want to ruin the nice moment he was having with her.
The bastard was taken aback as he saw something fighting against the darkness, a fire. It was almost magical as the blackness that once swallowed them whole was gone, by the bright light of roaring and unforgiving flames.
Minato felt his heart rate increase when she looked at him, a certain twinkle in her eyes. Before he knew it she moved away towards the other side of the cave.
He watched in fascination as she moved about, only catching a brief glimpse through the parted flames as Kushina pulled out a mortar-shaped bowl and pestle.
His curiosity was piqued as she crushed and blended various ingredients together. Her hands went to her swan-like neck retrieving what he thought was her necklace but was actually a single vile tied to a string.
The liquid danced inside the small glass tube, the fire giving it a sort of ominous glare.
Kushina proceeds to open her water skin, allowing the precious liquid of life to fill the mortar. As if sensing his gaze, smiled as she stared at him through the fire.
Minato wanted to shout as the beautiful redhead held the mortar over the fire, the flames heating it up. She looked unaffected by the blaze tickling her skin.
All the bastard could do was stare in disbelief, she moved and held herself with such confidence, it was as if she had done this more than once.
Minato was brought out of his thoughts as Kushina appeared in front of him. Mortar in hand.
As she offered it to him, he found himself greatly hesitant to take it, he felt his heart be crushed by Kushina's frown. She looked disappointed. As if to soothe his worries, she brought it up to her luscious lips, tilting her head back and drinking without hesitation.
Minato was transfixed, eyes widening as she licked her lips.
Once again she offered him the bowl, but he didn't refuse this time. Minato kicked his head back and drained it all in one big gulp.
Shaking his head as he started to feel strange as if he was on the cusp of becoming drunk.
He looked down at Kushina with fuzzy eyes, cheeks as red and flushed as a drunkard.
Giggling she placed her left hand on his right shoulder, leaning up as if she was moving her lips to meet his own.
Minato finally allowed his desires to get the best of him, he leaned down to give Kushina a kiss to express his feelings for her.
Only for his eyes to shoot open in shock, pain, and betrayal. He looked down to see the woman who had entrapped him had plunged her dagger into his chest.
Her eyes were no longer the enchanting violet that had made his fall for her, they were now yellow and rimmed with fire, with a slit pupil.
The wounded man released a strangled gasp, falling to his knees. One hand his chest while the other tried to support his weight, as he fell onto his side facing the fire.
His blood stained the ground.
A shiver went up his spine as Kushina started to chant in 'black speech' once more.
Minato arched his back, screaming in agony as blood started to leave his body at an increased rate, swirling in such a mesmerizing yet disturbing way, it soon went flying into the flames.
The fire erupted into overwhelming orange and red. Dark magic enveloped the room, Kushina developed into a single chant as she stared at the blaze. Without a second of hesitation, she brought the dagger to her hand, slashing across her palm with a quick movement. Her blood spilled to the floor.
With a flick of her hand, it flew towards the inferno, mixing with Minato's own blood, forming a sort of twisted cocktail of fire and blood.
Minato's attention was drawn to the raging firestorm, noticing the rage was fleeting. Becoming smaller and smaller by the minute.
Kushina's chant had stopped, her eyes filled with tears as she fell to her knees leaning towards the gentle blaze.
The crackling of flame started to dwindle, once ferocious roars were replaced by the wailing of a babe. Minato's heart skipped a beat, just as the flames were about to be snuffed out he saw a child, his child.
Once again they were surrounded by darkness, only this time a baby wailing echoed off the walls.
Minato felt warm, opening his eyes he saw embers lit around the room, allowing him to see briefly into the dark.
Kushina held her baby tenderly, shaking as if he would break apart in her hands. She started to cry, softly nuzzling against his soft chubby cheek, unable to help but keep whispering out a single word.
"Naruto"
Minato coughed once more, catching the new mother's attention. She was over to his side in three steps, helping him so he was leaning against the wall.
Kushina smiled sadly at him before opening his arms and placing the newborn between them. The bastard looked down, even though previously he felt a deep sharp pain, now? His chest ignited with a strange warmth.
This was his child, his son. Minato started to cry. As a bastard, he never felt meaning before, a stain on society but now? He felt as if he did something worthwhile.
He has only known his son for thirty seconds but he already loved him dearly.
"Minato" the blond looked up at Kushina, her eyes back to that gorgeous violet. "Thank you"
He felt a burst of warmth on his cheeks, Kushina had gently pecked him, showing her appreciation for his sacrifice.
Minato coughed, his eyes closing. Quickly he handed Naruto back to Kushina.
Breathing became hard for the blond man, his eyes started to fully close, and his last thoughts were of his son.
'Naruto….'
(Volantis)
Deep in the hearts of Volantis, a temple of the Lord of Light, towered over all. Stone of a mismatched colouring of black and red.
Deep within the temple were men and women. All of which were different in age and skin.
Flames cracked all around, the heat would be almost unbearable for anyone else but not for them. Not for the worshipers of R'hllor.
Red priests and priestesses chanted and prayed.
All seemed calm. The world was at peace for a single moment.
When all the fires started to dim, leaving them in nothing but darkness.
KRSHOOM!
The output of the firestorm was frightening. Even to those that worshiped it. No longer was it a yellow mixture but a dark red and orange.
Anyone and everyone who worshiped the fire god had a vision. It was frightening as it was divine.
A babe, that slowly grew into a young boy, who grew into a man, and a man who grew into a king.
A mighty king dressed in black and red armor, holding his helmet under his arm and a war axe in the other.
Crismison spiked locks, pale skin, a heavenly type beauty, however, none of it could compare to his most, out of the worldly feature. His eyes. Those soul-stealing eyes of his stood out the most.
A breathtaking blazing orange and yellow that glowed powerfully in the darkness, a parallel to the giant eye floating ominously behind him.
All the followers of R'hllor had one singular thought, was this his champion?! Was this Azor Ahai?!
In an instant, everything was as it once was, but the worshipers of R'hllor were forever stuck by what they saw.
It was a high-ranking priest who came to her senses first, she shakily walked to the pit, eyes full of worship.
"Where is he, my lord?" The fire danced as if it was sentient. Then she saw Asshai.
"High priestess, what should we do?" A young priestess asked.
"We find him!" Eyes burned with power and darkness. They would do their God's bidding.
The new mother had returned to her home, small but big enough for two.
Soothing sounds were made to please the newborn, violet eyes looked around curiously.
Eyeing everything in sight until he turned to look up at his mother.
Said mother held her baby close, having paid her respects to his father who she chose to cremate before returning home.
His sacrifice was something she could never repay but do everything in her power to keep their baby safe.
Her pride and joy.
Her little Naruto.
Little red tufts of hair, Valyrian features he inherited from his father.
But he had her eyes.
Kushina failed to fight back tears, nuzzling his chubby little cheek as he cooed softly at her. She gently kissed the spot she nuzzled, and slowly he rocked back and forth in her loving embrace.
The new mother slowly hummed a tune, reminiscing on her own mother and the way she used to sing to her.
With a voice fit for a goddess Kushina began to sing, a lullaby that was passed down for generations in her family.
"Sing all ye joyful, now sing all together!
The wind's in the tree-top, the wind's in the heather; The stars are in blossom, the moon is in flower, And bright are the windows of Night in her tower.
Dance all ye joyful, now dance all together!
Soft is the grass, and let foot be like feather!
The river is silver, the shadows are fleeting;
Merry is May-time, and merry our meeting.
Sing we now softly, and dreams let us weave him! Wind him in slumber and there let us leave him! The wanderer sleepeth. Now soft be his pillow!
Lullaby! Lullaby! Alder and Willow!
Sigh no more Pine, till the wind of the morn!
Fall Moon! Dark be the land!
Hush! Hush! Oak, Ash, and Thorn!
Hushed be all water, till dawn is at hand!"
When she was done, Naruto was fast asleep. Kushina practically glided to her bed. Placing him down and laying at his side.
After using such strong and draining magic, the new mother felt her own eyes start to weigh. With a silent chant, she made them both feel warm and safe, placing a small barrier to keep them both safe from the outside world.
It wasn't long until she felt her own eyes close and she was bathed in darkness.
Kushina's eyes shot open, no longer was she sleeping with her son in her arms. No where she was now was dark and faded.
"Ahhaahhhhahhh!" Something was crying, a baby. Her baby!
Kushina, struggling to move, went searching for Naruto, following the sound of his hollowing cries.
Each step was more taxing than the last, it was as if something was physically trying to stop her.
Her mind was filled with visions of cloaked men and women.
Fire, large amounts of fire. Fueled by dark magic.
"Naruto!" Kushina's head shot up in surprise. That was her own voice shouting in desperation.
Naruto's cries seemed to get louder.
A sudden burst of adrenaline pushed her forward, slamming open the door.
She will forever be horrified by the sight of her bleeding out on the ground, reaching out for Naruto.
The babe's wails reached an all-time high as if he could understand the gravity of the situation.
Kushina screamed her son's name until her throat went bloody and raw, clawing at whatever was near to get her closer to him.
She couldn't help but shed a tear as she was so close, so very close. It all seemed for naught.
The dark fire seemed to swirl into a tornado of death, inching closer and closer. Kushina wanted to scream as she felt her skin slowly turn to ash. The pain was unbearable but she couldn't lose her baby.
Kushina tried reaching for him once more, but just as she was about to grasp him he was pulled away from her once more. Embraced by the flames as his cries got faint, until she could no longer hear or see him.
Falling to her knees in despair, the mother let out a final wail as the fire finally consumed her.
Her violet eyes snapped open, the poor redhead's heart was hammering inside her chest. She curled around Naruto holding him close to her breasts.
She knew what she had to do, but how could she? How could she send him away?
Quietly she started to sob, she had to send him far away. To Westeros. He would be safer there than he would be here with her.
No matter how much it felt like she was tearing her heart in two.
"Naruto...my little Naruto. I'm so sorry" the poor mother wanted to just spend these few brief moments together, forget about the world, forget about everything that was going to tear them apart.
The Next Day
A cloaked Kushina walked towards the docks, head down as she held her baby close.
With haste she found Minato's crew, it would take time for the followers of R'hllor to reach Asshai but any advantage she could give Naruto was a blessing.
Like black smoke she breached onto the keel, heading down towards the compartments. It was hard to distinguish her from the shadows.
She found a corner surrounded by cloth, something to keep him warm.
Her hands shook, and her struggle to let him go was the hardest thing she had to do but she had to, no need to.
Choking back a sob, she placed him down covering him and making a little bed to keep him complacent.
She refused to send him out to the world without giving him a gift. An heirloom that had been passed down her family since the age of man began.
A golden ring, suspended by a silver chain.
Placing the chain around his neck, it seemed to shrink till it was the right size. Not tight enough it would choke him but loose enough it wouldn't go slipping off.
Kushina was a smart woman, she knew the greed of others and that they couldn't resist the golden ring, so she enchanted it. A protection charm that will weaken with each passing year until it eventually disappears altogether.
The grief-stricken mother held her child for a moment longer, feather light kisses brushing his chubby cheeks.
"I'll always be with you…" she placed one fine peck on his crown, expressing all the love only a mother could.
He would be safe and make it to Westeros. She could promise him that.
The hardy shouts and rumbling of the crew startled the young mother, the candlelight dimmed as her body shimmered like a mirage. Until she was gone.
The men start to pile in, placing down the various amounts of herbs, spices, and aels.
One man plopped down his crate, groaning from the weight only for his eyes to widen when he spotted Naruto.
"Oi, Captain! Someone smuggled this little tyke on board!" This caught all of the other sailors' attention, they crowded around the man staring at the babe in shock.
"What should we do with it?"
"I say chuck the little fucker overboard"
"Captain?" Having stomped his way down, he too was left in shock at the seemingly abandoned child. Raising a brow as one of his men handed him the child. Curious, he brought the babe close as if to inspect him.
Eyes seemingly sealed shut like most newborns, started to open.
The babe's eyes stared into the captain's own, shifting until they were that familiar sinful orange. What seemed like minutes but was only seconds was all it took for Kushina's enchantment to ensnare the man.
"We'll take him with us"
"What? Captain, are you sure?"
"With Minato no longer around there's plenty of room and food to spare. We'll drop him off at Orphanage in Lannisport and be done with it"
With a series of reluctant grumbles the men left for their stations. Beginning their journey back home.
Unknowingly as the ship started to sail away, a grieving mother watched, eyes swollen and red, hand held over her heart.
Whispering to herself, a form of comfort or maybe a blessing for a safe journey.
She did know how or when she would see him go, no matter how long it took. She knew they would find their way back to each other.
Naruto Hill, eight name days old, a rather mischievous child. Very quick when it came to the mind and body.
It was clear early on that he was…different. He could do things no one else could even in their wildest dreams, not counting the special ring he had since he was a babe.
Right now he was putting his abilities to the test, light illusions to confuse his chasers.
Chasers for what you may ask? Young Naruto here had stolen an assortment of fruits, meats, and bread.
Enough to keep even the fattest of men well-fed.
Using the vast city and its population to his advantage, he started to lose the city guards. A feeling of smugness and arrogance bloomed from his chest, running down a large alleyway, only to find himself stopped at a dead end.
The blond youth started to sweat, ears twitching at the sound of metallic stomping. His punishment draws ever closer.
Naruto groaned in annoyance. He was so close. With a roll of his eyes he pulled out his ring, a devilish smirk slithered across his lips.
It slipped over his pointer, and the guards burst into the alley with a rage, huffing and puffing from exhaustion.
All of them were confused, unable to find the head nor tail of the boy. It was as if he had vanished into thin air.
"That little cunt, where did he go?!" Grizzled looking men, covered in extravagant armor.
"Tch, crafty bastard. Fan out and find the little prick" the seeming leader of the group barked his orders, staring daggers into the alley.
"Yes Sir!" As his men departed the captain couldn't help but stay rooted to the spot. His eyes wide and unblinking.
For what felt like an eternity he stood still, waiting. What was he waiting for? He would be unable to tell you but…he was sure that the boy was still there somehow.
Shaking away those mad thoughts, he started to depart, when suddenly an abandoned crate was knocked, and the usual small noise sounded like a thunderous echo.
He froze in place, and slowly he turned.
the commander narrowed his eyes. Searching every nook and cranny until he was eventually forced to give up, shaking his head, he left in a grumble.
The alley was silent once more.
For minutes everything stayed the same, until you would hear the faint tapping of feet on stone. It shouldn't be possible but it was. Naruto, using the mystical power of his ring, disappeared.
While everything seemed normal to the common folk, It was much different for the young redhead.
He felt cold, it was dark and everything had a whiteness surrounding them.
Naruto ducked and weaved around the mindless people of Lannistport.
With haste, he finally made it back home, to the local orphanage.
Quieter than a mouse it was near effortless to sneak back in. He paused, standing on the tip of his toes as his heart steadied to a silent rhythm. After he was done making sure the coast was clear, he removed his ring.
Reappearing to the world as if the sorcery never took place.
Naruto groaned at his sore shoulders, rolling them from the weight of the sack. Making his way to the kitchen he couldn't help but smile when he saw the woman who was the Matriarch of the orphanage.
Well into her years but also somehow keeping a youthfulness. Blond hair that had started to show strands of grey, tanned skin from years of hard labour and the strong sun shining over Lannisport.
Without turning around she called out to the sneaking redhead "Back so soon?"
Naruto cursed as he paused mid-step, turning to face the orphanage's matriarch with a smile and innocent eyes asking "What do you mean?"
"You went out stealing again"
"No?"
"*sigh* What am I gonna do with you?" A cheeky smile was all she got in response. All the food was shared evenly throughout the orphanage. The children were happy and full.
The little thief was proud of his deeds.
Later that very same evening, Naruto was found sitting on top of the roof, apple in hand. The beauty of the sun reflecting off the surface of the water. In a daze he started to fiddle with his ring, it was a form of comfort for the child whenever he got lost in his own thoughts.
Red-hair.
That always came to his mind. Red hair that looked softer than silk, violet eyes that swirled like a whirlpool. Soft lips.
He swore he felt them before. He felt her warmth and love.
But it was only in the dream.
"Who are you?" Naruto wasn't even sure she was real, she could have been a figment of his imagination. A desperate want he could never have.
His mind started to shift. About his place in the world, his future.
What could a low-born orphan bastard do in this world? How could he become something more?
He started tracing his finger in the dust and dirt.
A giant flaming eye.
A little smile broke out. That would be his sigil. That would be his future but he would be more than just a Lord…he would become a King.
It was a new day, Naruto with his ring firmly secured around his neck set out to do what he does best. But before he could begin something caught the young lad's attention. A small crowd that steadily grew.
He pushed his way through, ducking and weaving the bodies. Until he was finally at the front. Eyes widened at the sight of a boy no older than himself, being held down by several of the city watch.
"Please, sir! I was just hungry!" His skinny frame shaking in his torn rags. Three out of four of the City Watch, shared a look. It was just cruelty.
The lord commander growled out, glaring at one of his men and nodding towards his sword "You know the law boy. You steal, you lose a hand"
"I won't do it again. I promise!" Without reluctance, the man unsheathed his blade.
Everyone watched in horror.
The sword was raised, gleaming from the sunlight. The city watchmen's hand tightened around his sword, hand steady as he awaited his orders.
"Do it"
"Please!"
Swish!
The blade cut through the air like it was flesh before making contact with the stone underneath, slicing through everything in its path.
Naruto shut his eyes but he couldn't block out the boy's agonizing screams. He pushed and shoved his way through the crowd, he needed to get away.
He ran and ran, until it felt like his legs would give out. He didn't know when he stopped but when he eventually did, he fell to his knees, shaking. One hand held his stomach, he could feel this morning's breakfast coming up.
It was so easy to imagine himself in that boy's place. Who's to say he won't get caught? That he won't lose his hand next?
It was a sobering thought. He couldn't do this anymore. Still, in deep thought, he started to walk back to the orphanage. One thing was very clear to the young redhead.
Things needed to change.
As if sensing his discomfort, the ring released a warm soothing heat. Slowly and steadily he started to feel better but it didn't change his thoughts. His desires.
He was going to be more.
(Four Days Later)
It was hard saying goodbye.
To the woman who cared for him, all the other orphans, his home…But if he wanted to achieve his dream, he needed to move forward.
The journey was long without a horse but a kind man with a carriage offered to let him hitch a ride for a copper.
Naruto sighed as he tried to sit comfortably against the hardwood, failing to ignore every bump that knocked him around.
"Alright lad, we're here" The red-headed youth gave the owner of the cart a bow of gratitude, as well as a copper coin for his trouble.
'So this is King's Landing? Smells like shit.'
"Out the way boy!" Naruto moved aside as men covered head to toe in silver suits of armor marched past, from what he could guess these men were of the City Watch yet they didn't look that impressive at least in his critical eyes
With a hum he walked through the streets, staying as discreet as possible, fairly easy for someone his size, dressed in nothing but rags and a torn hooded cloak, he looked no different than the rest of the street rats of King's Landing.
It took the red-headed child a while before he reached the Red Keep, if only because much to his embarrassment, he kept getting lost but as he finally found the entrance, it gave him enough time to spot the servants of the Castle.
Naruto watched and studied them with the gaze of a predator, he was like a shadow as he followed a small group of women. It seemed there were many gateways for the servants to enter, and even better there were fewer guards.
Seems today this particular passage had one, the man let the woman pass with nothing more than a nod and a slight leer. As he turned his head forward he jumped when he found a small crimson-haired boy staring up at him through his hood.
The knight swallowed his surprise as he glared down at Naruto, spitting as he barked "Where did you come from boy? What are you doing here?!"
Yet he didn't speak. His eyes…his glowing, powerful eyes steadily put the man into a trance. His face lost all expression while his eyes grew dull.
"I'm part of the new batch of servants, you just let my group go by" Naruto stated his words like they were fact, his magic easily influencing the weak-willed guard.
"I…I did?" He mumbled to himself, rubbing his head as he closed his eyes to think.
"That's right. I got a little lost, I'm sorry for my delay" Naruto responded as he bowed deeply, hands resting atop one another as he resisted the urge to smile.
"Well move along then, your no good to anyone out here"
"Right away, sir, thank you" Naruto gave another bow as he walked past the guard with a smirk, his eyes stopping their enchanting glow as the red-headed child entered the castle and joined the other servants in their quarters. His first target, the head of staff.
Princess Myrcella Baratheon, six name days old, pretty but constantly told she would grow into a beauty like her mother, Queen Cersei Lannister the most beautiful woman in the entire Seven Kingdoms.
The young Princess had yet to see her pregnant mother today. Unknown if it was because of royal duties or perhaps she simply could be resting. Either way, the girl with long blond hair sighed as she was alone in her room. Of course, her guards stand outside her quarters, ready to come in at her request but that did very little for the bored princess.
She dare not go visit her mean older brother.
'Maybe Mother would like some company…' Myrcella thought to herself with a nod and a little smile. She had noticed how much more tired Cersei grew the more her stomach swelled.
Even as young as she was she understood recent news had made her mother more worried. A surprise attack had been launched on the fleet of Lannisport, her Grandsire naval fleet burnt to ashes and a man named Balon Greyjoy had declared himself a King. Her father was currently in talks with her Uncles and council, discussing what will be done.
Myrcella sighed as she got off her bed and pried open the large elegantly crafted wooden door. Two members of the Kingsgaurd stood at attention, awaiting her orders.
"Princess!"
Myrcella smiled softly to her armored protectors, gesturing to the left down the hall "I wish to be escorted to my mother's chambers"
"Of course, Princess" was all that was said with a bow, they dutifully followed the golden-haired princess, unaware of the danger that lurked in waiting.
For men of the sea, they were astonishingly quiet on land. Kidnappers sent by the King of the Iron Islands, Balon Greyjoy. It didn't matter who they nabbed as long as they were of royal status, they were hoping to run into the Queen and the Prince but they would settle for a Princess.
The youngest of the Kingsgaurd was unfortunate that by the time he heard the approaching footsteps, a blade had pierced his throat. Gurgling his own blood as he fell to his knees, his hands unable to stop the waterfall of crimson from spilling.
Myrcella stood petrified, her Lannister green-eyes shaking as one of her protectors lay dead at her feet.
A roar of rage escaped the remaining Kingsgaurd. He swung his blade with a vengeance, his strikes swift and to kill.
One of Greyjoy's soldiers cried as his chest was sliced open, falling onto his back with a cry, he held his bleeding chest with a cough.
"Run Princess! Run to your Mother and inform the other guards!" Myrcella's feet refused to move; she could only watch as her last and remaining protector fought for his life. The Kingsguard glanced at the Princess as he caught his attacker's blade in a stalemate against his own "Go now!"
It was just the jolt she needed as she scrunched up part of her dress with her small fists, she ran as fast as she could. Never feeling the hot tears flowing in a steady trickle.
Clang!
The older Kingsgaurd grunted as his advisor's advantage in youth was starting to show. He was becoming slower, his blocks less sturdy and his swings less graceful.
Clang!
But that didn't mean the battle was decided yet, with an excellent parry he disarmed the killer of his comrade and drove his sword into the man's belly, all the way down to the hilt.
"Filthy mongrel!" With a snarl he ripped his blade out and turned, marching to catch up with the princess as the bleeding man behind him fell with a wet thud.
However, in his oversight to catch up to the Princess, he failed to remember the remaining Iron-born looming behind him.
Shlick!
A blade stained red pieced the back of his skull and out the front of his face. His remaining eye shook before rolling upwards as his vision went black.
The princess' last guard was dead, the ironborn man laughed, an evil and cruel thing as he started to give chase, not even sparing his comrade a second glance.
Myrcella's lungs burned, strands of hair clinging to her sweaty head as she never stopped running but quickly found her strength waning.
She turned a corner, stopping in her stride as she found Naruto strolling around the halls with a look of awe until he spotted the distressed Princess.
"Your grace? Are you okay?" He was unprepared for the Princess to rush to his side, sobbing as she held him close.
"Please don't let him take me…" Naruto's violet eyes shifted to the bleeding man walking towards them. His terrible intentions were clear as he pointed his blade at the children.
"Move aside boy, I just want the Princess" Myrcella stared at the only one who stood between her and her kidnapper. Worry burned in her belly as she felt fear that he would step aside, that he would allow her to get taken.
That was not to be the case.
"No"
"No?" The Iron born repeated the word with something that was part of a scoff and a mixture of a laugh "Do ya' really think you can stop me from taking her?"
"If you truly believe such a sniveling cur like yourself is so formidable, then come and claim her" Myrcella's would-be kidnapper snarled as he marched forward, his goal to bisect the red-headed bastard in twine.
If perhaps it was a regular child then he might have succeeded in his attempt to kill Naruto. It was unfortunate for him that he wasn't facing just a regular child
He made the mistake of staring into his glowing eyes. Then he started to fall, snapping out of his daze as his back and head met cold stone. A figure of shadow loomed over him like the stranger.
One bloodshot eye managed to see Naruto staring down at him like one might a disease-filled Rat, disgusted by the mere sight of him.
The Iron Born tried to reach for his sword in a last attempt of defiance, his reward was a gruesome death.
Naruto's hands lit alite with magical flames, he reached down and touched the man's face. He screamed and screamed until he screamed himself raw, only stopping when the magical redhead hands started to sink into his face.
With a sigh, his eyes returned to their violet color and he looked back towards Princess Myrcella, who stared at her savior with awe.
"Who are you?" It was said in a whisper but he heard it all the same. Naruto made to speak but found his words interrupted by a distressed call.
"Myrcella!" The Queen heavy with pregnancy moved as fast as she could towards her daughter followed by her own Kingsgaurd, the crown Prince dutifully by his mother's side but oddly enough didn't seem to show an inkling of concern for his sister.
Cersei held her daughter close, whispering sweet words into her whimpering child's ear, quickly soothing her daughter's distress before moving her enchanting Lannister green eyes to Naruto.
The young Red-head found himself slightly flustered under the stare of the beautiful golden haired Queen.
Joffrey moved from his mother's side to stare at the deadman by Naruto's feet, his gaze moving from his mutilated head to the killer in question. The way he stared at the small sorcerer could only be described as awe.
"Did you do this?"
Cersei's ears perked at her beloved Son's question, her attention firmly on Naruto awaiting an answer.
In less than a second his eyes shifted, they were kind, gentle, and harmless. He bowed his head low, prostrating himself in front of the royals "I did your grace. I know not why but the Gods found it fit to give me power. I'm nothing but a simple common orphan from Lannisport"
"My Father rules those ports, quite a long way for someone so young to travel. That also begs the question of why you are here…"
"That's correct, your grace but while a long journey, not impossible to travel even for someone my size" Naruto responded, his hands resting in his lap as he said "The reason I am here is quite simple, I came to serve you and your family. For someone as lowborn as me, I could not think of a greater honor"
Cersei's lips curled, her hand resting on her daughter's shoulder, holding her close "And you saved my daughter, correct?"
Before the crimson-haired boy could answer, the Princess decided to speak for him, her words filled with nothing but admiration and truth.
"He did Mother, that man didn't come alone. My Kingsgaurd before they were killed managed to slay his friend and wound him" Her eyes, very similar to her mother, moved to Naruto. Smiling as she said "He would have taken me…if he hadn't protected me"
Cersei thought over her daughter's words before looking back at the kneeling redhead "The King would want to know about this, come boy"
Naruto rose from his potion on the floor, following the royal family with his head bowed.
It seems fate had set out to bless Naruto by pushing his goals further. With what he thought might have taken years to gain the royal family's favor, he managed to do so on his first day of arrival.
Perhaps the Gods knew well of his plans and fully supported him. Maybe he got lucky but it mattered not what the answer was, only the reward…
Ten years.
It had been ten years since he had decided to leave Lannisport and go to King's Landing with a goal in mind.
To become the King. A thought, no, a dream many children, men, and women shared. They wanted to be the ones to rule all but unfortunately, they either didn't have the power but the status or they had the power but not the Status that came with being a Lord of a noble house.
Naruto was unfortunately the former. He had the power but no ancient house ran through his veins, he was a bastard and an orphan one at that.
But even bastards can make a difference in this world, it just takes time, patience, and planning.
In the dead of night on the castle grounds, a figure walked through the night, cloaked and quiet. Their path is guided by the flaming torches on the stone walls.
They found their destination after climbing a small tower of steps towards a wooden door. Their knuckles racked against the wood before pausing for an answer.
"Enter"
The room was large but far smaller than any room belonging to the royal family. It was fairly bare besides the big bed, a desk with a chair, and a roaring fireplace.
Sitting in a hand-carved wooden cathedra was an older, more mature Naruto Hill, now eight and ten name days old he truly grew into his looks. Growing from an adorable child to a graceful, stunning man.
His hair had only grown darker with age, his skin fairer. It seemed whatever blood belonged in his mother's veins only enhanced the Valyrian in his father's. Creating something new, something beautiful.
"It seems you arrived just in time, Varys…" Naruto called out to the cloaked figure, they removed their hood to reveal a bald head with a plump face. The redhead's eyes glowed as he smirked at the 'Spider'.
Of course, the man had been against Naruto from the very beginning, understandable considering what happened to him in his youth at the hands of another magic user but the sorcerer couldn't allow the man to disrupt his plan.
It happened years ago, the searing of flesh from Naruto's glowing hot ring started the corruption of Varys' mind. It didn't take long before he had absolute control at the cost of a constant drain on his magic. A normal Sorcerer or user of magic would be unable to keep control for long but that wasn't the case for Naruto.
His magical reserves are near endless and his power more potent than anything this world has ever seen…
"What whispers do you have for me, Varys?"
"It seems the hand's fever has taken a turn for the worst"
"Is that so…" Naruto hummed to himself in thought, his index finger lightly tapping the arm of the chair as he thought to himself "How strange. He seemed in good spirits the day before"
Of course, it was clear Jon Arryn, Hand of the King, had been poisoned. Now by who, Naruto couldn't be sure, as powerful as he was even the redheaded sorcerer didn't know everything.
"I couldn't say my lord but I do find it odd that Lady Arryn was quite insistent on leaving. A yearning for home perhaps in these dreary times" Of course even under Naruto's control, Varys still found a way to speak in riddles.
"And the Targaryen's?"
"Doing well. They were taken in by Illyrio Mopatis, they seem to be his guests, for the time being, my Lord. I should also mention that they do plan to marry Daenerys off soon " Varys murmured, as he awaited his Lord's answer.
Naruto stared at the roaring flames in thought. He would need to make contact with them. Preferably the last daughter of House Targaryen, her brother already a lost cause if he was showing signs of his father's madness.
"You've done well, you may go Varys" with a final bow the plum-bald man left the redhead's chambers.
Alone with his thoughts and schemes, Naruto knew he would soon be ready to kick off his plan to become the next King of the Seven Kingdoms. His influence in Kings Landing was already well spread but not when it came to the more major houses.
Something needed to be done about that and soon.
(The Next Day)
Naruto walked towards the kings chambers, carrying a pitcher of deep red wine but he was not alone, accompanying him was the now older and much more beautiful Myrcella Baratheon.
Her golden curls had grown long and elegant, reaching down to the middle of her back. The proof of her coming of age is clear in the swelling of her hips as well as the growth of her bust.
The Princess looked saddened as she walked alongside her closet and dearest friend.
"Poor father…He cared for Jon quite a bit" Myrcella said with a sigh as she gazed up towards the tall redhead.
"Like a father, I heard but fear not my Princess. You and your gift will lighten the king's spirits immediately" The golden haired Princess smiled up at her protector, looping her arm through his own.
"Well thank you for helping me acquire the wine. I have no idea how you get them so quickly" Myrcella asked, graceful golden brow raised.
Naruto softly chuckled, a true smile as he simply said "Magic, my Princess"
(The Kings Chambers)
Robert Baratheon, first of his name, protector of the realm and King of the Seven Kingdoms was in a sour mood. A mood no amount of wine or whores could fix.
His father had died and all he wanted was to leave and go North to be by his brother's side. Not his actual family member by blood but still one nonetheless. Someone who he holds in very high regard and cares for, more than his own two brothers by blood.
Robert was knocked out of his thoughts by two strong knocks on his door.
"Who is it?" The fat King asked with a yell, draining the rest of his wine with one big gulp.
Robert felt for a moment the weight on his mind fade at the sight of his daughter. He smiled through his beard and let out a wheezing laugh "Myrcella!"
The golden haired Princess moved to her fathers side, accepting the dark haired man's hug "How are you, Father?"
Robert let Myrcella go with a sigh, his Baratheon blue-eyes not as bright as he remembered Jon "I've been better. Naruto, my boy it's good to see you"
Naruto bowed his head in greeting "You as well, your grace. I'm sorry about Lord Arryn, he was a fine man"
"Aye, he was. Now what's that you got in your hands?" Robert asked, gesturing to the large pitcher of wine.
"Arbor gold, your grace. The Princess had given me the task of getting this for you, in hopes of raising your spirits" Naruto moved over to the King's side, filling his cup until it was full.
Robert nodded his head in thanks, staring at the red alcoholic juice with a ravenous hunger he usually saves for his whores.
The fat King took a large sip before releasing a sigh, his large belly felt warm and the pain of Jon's death slowly faded.
Robert looked over to his daughter, his care and love clearly shining through his blue-eyes "Thank you, Myrcella"
"Of course father, I know it may be small but I still hope it brings some comfort" The Princess said as she pecked her father's cheek, already turning red from the wine.
"You have already done that and more my dear"
Naruto watched the interactions between Father and Daughter with a smile. It was a rare moment when the King would interact with any of his children but it was no secret Myrcella was his favorite.
"Your grace, if I may ask. Who will be your next hand?" Naruto already had a pretty good idea but he was doing this to teach Myrcella. Showing her the way of getting information out of a blinded individual.
"Your not as smart as you look lad, if you can't guess *wheeze* Ahahahaha!" Naruto took the jab with a smile, his brow twitching at the princesses giggle "But if you both would want to officially know, Ned Stark will become my new hand"
"I take it, that means we'll be off to Winterfell then Father?" Myrcella asked Robert as he finished the rest of his cup.
"Aye, we'll be leaving on the morrow" the two bowed and made to leave, stopping once the King started to speak once more "Myrcella…"
"Father?"
"Thanks for the wine" Robert raised his cup in cheers to his daughter, a silly grin on his lips. Another giggle escaped the princess before she left the King alone with his thoughts.
The old warrior sat there drowning his returning sorrows in fine wine and memories.
Found memories about Jon.
About his closest friend Ned.
And finally about the love of his life…Lyanna.