The Blue Wolf

by choejhulkp9

What if? What if events before Robert's Rebellion and the end of the Targaryen line occurred differently? What if Lyanna Stark did have some feelings for Robert and it led to them laying together before she met Rhaegar? What if she was pregnant when they went to the Tower of Joy in Dorne? These small changes have large repercussions. The Blue Wolf is born and he will Howl with Fury

9. Back in the land of the living

Just a note guys: I was supposed to update my Riverdale story as well but the file got corrupted so I have to start from scratch with it. I'll try and update it for October but also, please go take part in the poll on my profile if you haven't already done so. All your votes help me make my decision. Thanks.

Here is Chapter 9 of the Blue Wolf. Whether you believe it's the work of a blessing by the Seven, the will of the Old Gods, R'hllor and his light, magic, or his own sheer will to live…William is back in the land of the living. He's not sure exactly what happened and neither is anyone else but he's not the only one who is back in the realm of the living. The once famed creatures who conquered all of Essos and were the main power behind one of the most powerful empires in history were long thought extinct but one has returned. What does this mean for the world? Who knows? Enjoy!

Back in the land of the living

295 AC: Yunkai

A blood red comet streaked across the morning sky and it was a wonderous sight. Able to be seen from beyond the wall in Westeros to as fast east a Yi-Ti, many stared at it in wonder and were curious to its meaning. Traders from the east said that the blood red comet was a sign of the end of the world. Ship hands from Braavos said it was the omen of vengeance and death. The Dothraki claim that the more fiercely a man burned in his life, the brighter his star burned. These superstitions held various symbolic meaning and significance to various cultures but no one was sure what the truth was. There was one superstition about a blood red comet streaking through the sky and it said that the only reason one would appear is to herald the arrival of dragons. Or a Dragon in this case.

Said dragon resided in the prince's chamber where the prince was currently making up for lost time. He started off his morning with an intense workout to get his body and mind back to where they were before…if not better. But that was easier said than done. Orys was perched up on a table and watched as Will struggled to finish the first part of his morning training. He would usually start off strength building exercises and this morning was no different except for the fact that he was struggling. Normally, he could do twenty pushups with no problem and without breaking a sweat but here he was struggling on pushup #14.

"Fuck…" Will muttered as he struggled to push up for #15 before he laid on the floor. His body might have escaped serious harm during the battle against the Golden Company but he has been asleep for over 38 days. Lying still on a bed without moving or strenuous training so what was easy before was now much more difficult.

The door to his room was opened and in walked Ser Arthur Dayne, Missandei, and Cedric who saw the prince laying on the floor. "Are you all right?" Arthur rushed over to help him but Will just pushed his hands away and got back to his feet.

"I'm fine. I'm not injured." He assured them as Missandei took a towel and wiped off some sweat. "My morning training is not as easy as it used to be."

"You should take it easy, my prince." Cedric suggested. "Your body has been through a lot."

"I've been asleep for long enough." Will stated, feeling frustrated about being stuck in the deep sleep for so long. He had a lot of time to make up for. "I appreciate everything you all have done while I was indisposed but I'm ready to pull my weight again."

"Well, let's not push the luck the gods have seen fit to give you. We're in uncharted territory here." Cedric reminded him as he sat the prince on the bed to make sure he was ok. He checked his eyes and there was no redness or change in color, his breathing was good with his lungs sounding clear and his heart was steady and strong. Cedric then checked on the arrow wound that brought the prince down and it had healed over nicely with only a faint scar. "You were asleep for a long time and…whatever happened brought you back. We should make sure you aren't still sick."

"Agreed." Ser Arthur stated. "We don't know exactly what we're dealing with so it's best if we move with caution."

"I've always valued and trusted your wise words before. Nothing has changed." Will replied and let Cedric continue with his tests.

"How do you feel, your grace?" Missandei wondered.

"Fine, Missandei. Physically, at least." He replied. "I can feel the blood rushing through my veins and my heart beating in my chest which is a good sign. Other then the fact that I've gotten a little weaker and slower because of my deep sleep my body is fine."

"And your mind?" Arthur asked, kneeling down by his side.

"Still trying to make sense of what I saw…if what I saw was real." He admitted.

"What did you see?" Arthur asked him.

"At first it all felt like a dream. I was reliving some of my old memories." Will recounted. "It all felt so…real. I relived battles but it wasn't until our sneak attack against the Golden Company that things felt…off. Like…I was watching everything around me through a fog. Things were clear as I remember one moment but then things would change…I can't explain it. I remember fighting Connington and then the arrow in my leg which is when things changed."

"Changed how?" Missandei asked him.

"I saw Orys." Will looked over at his eagle who let out a proud caw. "He appeared and led me away and then things turn into a fog. I remember bits and pieces and I could have sworn I was fighting a giant green manticore."

Cedric continued his check up on Will and he seemed physically fine. Other than the muscle fatigue and weakness he was healthy and his strength would return with some time and training. His physical body showed recovery but it was hard to say what this experience did for the prince's state of mind. "A manticore?" Cedric asked for clarification.

"A manticore the size of a King Stag and…it reeked of death. Like it was there to kill me." Will rubbed the back of his neck as Missandei got him a cup of water. "Thank you."

"It was all probably in your head, William. You've been asleep for a long time and survived the effects of Manticore venom. We're not sure what your mind could have gone through." Cedric admitted. "But we're just glad you're alive and well."

"I know and I can't thank all of you enough for what you've done in my absence."

"You never have to thank us, your grace." Missandei replied.

"She's right. We're with you to the end." Arthur assured him and Will nodded.

"I saw my mother…" He muttered which caught everyone off guard. "She looked exactly as I remember. Growing up…I could always remember her face, her hair, how she moved…but I forgot her voice. Hearing it again for the first time in so long…I don't know if she was real or not."

"It doesn't matter." Arthur pat him on the shoulder. "She'd be proud of the young man you've grown to be."

"She said that." Will stated and Ser Arthur smiled.

"Let's ease you back into everything. There's no reason to rush anything." Arthur suggested.

"A fine idea. Missandei and I will be back with your breakfast." Cedric and her left, leaving Arthur and William together.

"What else did you see?" Arthur asked him, knowing the signs of when Will was holding something back.

"A weirwood tree…bigger than any tree I've ever seen…maybe even bigger than the Red Keep. And a man."

"Did you recognize this man?" Arthur asked but William shook his head no.

"He said I had a destiny to fulfill and the first rebirth had begun. Am I going mad?"

"I doubt there is anything on this planet that could make you go mad but we're in uncharted territory. The night you awoke…it'd be ignorant of me to not say that what I saw was not magic. And your new friend is further evidence of that." Arthur pointed to the small wooden cage that was by the balcony.

"Right…I still can't believe it myself." Will walked over to the cage and carefully picked up the cage and put it on the table. He unlocked the little door and opened it before taking a step back. Arthur and Will watched in anticipation as a tiny little blue scaled dragon waddled out of the cage. Seeing it in again in person was as awe inspiring and incredible as it was unbelievable. The dragon was the size of a small bird but given its body language it didn't seem to show any kind of fear. What it did do was look around the room before looking at Will.

Arthur watched as Will looked at the dragon and it stared back at him like it was trying to understand him. Will then sat down at the table and the dragon walked over with its four limbs before nuzzling against his hand. "It's like it knows you." Arthur muttered, still in slight disbelief at what he was seeing.

"Hard to believe this is real." Will pet the dragon on the head and nuzzled its chin with his index finger and it seemed to enjoy it.

"Well, that dragon is proof that we're not dreaming and if you need any more then just look up in the sky." Arthur walked over to the balcony and pointing to the red comet up above. "I don't think it's a coincidence that the comet appeared in the sky at the same time you awoke and the dragon was born. Whatever other beliefs and religions might say about a red comet…I think it's only in the sky with the rebirth of dragons…and magic."

"Bringing back a dragon from an old egg I found in Valyria is one thing but magic?" Will asked him.

"According to the old tales, dragons were often beings a magic so a dragon return could only be possible with magic. And seeing what I did when we had Kinvara bring you back…if that wasn't magic then I don't know what was." Arthur stated, still afraid of what he saw happen.

"How did you bring me back?" Will wondered.

"According to Kinvara she performed a ritual to have the Lord of Light rejuvenate your flame and bring you back by offering two objects of immense power. One that brings life and one that brings death." Arthur explained.

"Would that explain why my swords are gone?" Will pointed to the corner where his swords were usually placed only the space was empty.

"Your brothers took them after the ritual and have been cleaning them." Arthur pointed out.

"And object of immense power was the egg."

"Yes. Thoros vouched that whatever Kinvara would do would help you…and we were out of options." Arthur admitted.

"I know that couldn't have been an easy decision to make but it brought me back. Thank you." Will told him.

"Despite the fact that it worked…a lot of us aren't sure of what transpired but at first nothing seemed to happen. She recounted a Lord of Light prayer and lit a pyre but nothing happened until it turned into an inferno and consumed you. At first we thought you had burned to death but the fire was soon snuffed out into smoke which is when we heard you coughing." Arthur told him.

"Consumed by fire." Will muttered as he saw a candle on the table and placed his hand over it. He placed his palm directly over the fire and nothing seemed to happen which made Ser Arthur wonder if the prince had suddenly become fireproof. That was soon dashed as Will removed his hand in pain and there was small burn mark in his palm. "Seven hells that was stupid."

"The truth is my prince, we're not sure what happened and the only one who really knows is probably you. What else happened in your mind?" Arthur asked him as the dragon chirped and nuzzled against Will.

"When I saw my mother, I was at the Tower of Joy but we weren't alone. I saw Rhaegar."

"Rhaegar Targaryen?"

"Yes. Whether it was him or a figment of my mind but I think it was him."

"What did he want?" Arthur asked, sitting down next to him.

"He wanted me to die." He replied. "He said there was a destiny and a prophecy that House Targaryen needed to fulfill and I couldn't in the way. Even after all the deaths and chaos the rebellion he brought…he said it was for the greater good more complicated then I could even begin to understand."

Arthur absorbed all that information and a part of it did make sense. Rhaegar was called the silver prince as he was handsome, kind, and a man of the people but there was a part of him that the smallfolk and even lords didn't see. A young man obsessed with the tales and prophecies of old legends and House Targaryen's start. "Rhaegar was obsessed with the tales of old and prophecy of the three headed dragon of House Targaryen. Aegon the conqueror and his sisters. He said they were more important than we could imagine. What did you say?"

"Everything I wanted to if he were here now. I vowed to be a better prince than he was…a better man than my father…and a brother to Jon when I get home. That's when he attacked me." Will told him and Arthur processed this all. A part of him didn't want to believe this was true but the tones of the prince's voice seemed to indicate it was…at least to him. "If it was real…it was the hardest battle I have ever had in my life but I won. He said that I couldn't fight destiny but I did."

Arthur smiled and held William close. "Perhaps you should make that a personal motto. Destiny bows to me."

"No…my destiny is mine to make." Will fixed the saying and both liked how it came out.

"William…I'm not sure if any of that was real but if it was then remember it as a lesson you keep close to the heart. You are one of the finest young men I have ever had the privilege of meeting in my life and once upon a time…so was Rhaegar. I thought he would go on to do great things but the path he took and the choices he made…had unforeseen circumstances. There was an old proverb of house Targaryen during their reign: Madness and greatness are two sides of the same coin. I don't think that should be used solely against House Targaryen." Arthur warned him and William understood.

"Then I pray the day comes when my coin never flips." William remarked. "Ser Arthur Dayne, as your prince and sword shield, I make this one command of you. Should the day come when my mind breaks, madness takes me over, or I forget my path and lose my way…you will bring me back…and kill me should I go too far."

"Your grace, I can't do that."

"You can and you will as a direct order. If something happens that sends me down the wrong path and I end up becoming like Rhaegar or the Old Gods forbid the Mad King then you have to stop me. Promise me." Will ordered.

Arthur let out a frustrated sigh before he nodded in agreement. "I promise but I hope that day never comes."

"As do I." Will remarked as they heard a chirp and saw the dragon looking at the two of them. "I don't speak dragon."

"It's been several hours. He could be hungry." Arthur suggested.

"So, am I." Will replied just as Cedric and Missandei returned with breakfast. "Thank the Old Gods."

The four sat down to a nice hearty morning breakfast meal which is exactly what Will needed. Another effect of being asleep for so long besides the diminished strength was the hunger. Will ate bacon, baked bread, porridge, some boiled vegetables, roasted fish and finished the meal with several glasses of water, fruit juices and fruit. It was the most he's eaten in years and was quite an interesting sight. Orys sort of mirrored his master as he guzzled and nibbled at three pieces of fish whilst feeding the small baby dragon tiny pieces which it ate as well.

Will spit out a seed of a pomegranate when he noticed the looks he was getting from everyone and the various empty plates and bowls in front of him. "Sorry for what you had to see."

"No, no need for apologies. It's a good sign that you have your appetite back." Cedric told him. "Your strength will follow soon enough."

"Well, it was very good and I needed that." Will replied, looking over at Orys and the dragon. Missandei was helping the little dragon eat by picking off small pieces of fish which it nibbled at and swallowed sort of like a small bird. "He likes you."

"Never in my life did I ever expect to see a dragon in the flesh. I've heard stories of them and of the old Valyrian Empire from the Masters of Astapor but to see one in front of me with my own eyes." Missandei couldn't find the words to put her thoughts into speech but it was likely mirrored by everyone else. The prince recovering from his deep sleep is one thing but an actual dragon walking around and alive in front of them was another. "He's a very calm dragon. Not at all like I expected it to be."

"Well, it's a baby. Even the great dragons of legend used by the Valyrian Empire and then Aegon the Conqueror started off as nothing but babies hatched from eggs. Eggs hatched by the shepherds of Old Valyria if the stories are right." Cedric explained. "Although how they raised them is still a question."

"I don't suppose we'll find a book on how to raise a dragon in the Citadel." Arthur pointed out as the tiny dragon walked across the table.

"If there were any books and scrolls on dragons and such they're long gone. No doubt lost when the Targaryen dragons began to die out and everything Targaryen was definitely destroyed when King Robert took the throne." Cedric surmised and everyone agreed with that.

"No doubt my father will not be happy to hear about the dragon being born." Will suggested when he saw the dragon walk over and look at him.

"You don't think your father would hold this against you, do you?" Missandei wondered.

"I'm honestly not sure. My father and I have always been close but one thing I can count on other then his love for wine and sex is his hatred for the Targaryens. If he hears word about the dragon then I'd hate to imagine what he would think of me." William remarked.

"Your father loves you, William. You know that." Arthur reminded him.

"I know but this little fellow might have the power to change that." Will pet the dragon on the head and it let out a happy screech. "Dragons haven't been around for centuries so seeing the one symbol of House Targaryen with his son might bring up unwanted memories of bad times or notions of the Targaryens coming back."

"Well, we won't know exactly how he'll react and he's still in Westeros. So, for the time being we should just make sure that you regain your strength and that everything we've done doesn't end here." Cedric stated and everyone agreed with that before he looked at the dragon. "And as for the little one…we'll just have to care for him. Whatever legends of old and tales of House Targaryen say of dragons, this one is just a baby. Raising and training it will have to be a learning process. I've read before in an old book that dragons would often bind with their destined riders and how some Maesters claim they were as smart as men. It's clearly taken a liking to you, my prince."

"Wonder why that is." Will held out his hand and the dragon climbed on. He raised him to look at him as the dragon stretched its wings and let out a small cry. "I've managed to raise Orys so maybe that should help. And I think Orys has taken a liking to this little guy as well."

Will got up and walked over to Orys and placed the dragon down where it walked onto the table. Orys seemed to keep it close and protect it like it was his young. "Interesting…" Cedric muttered.

"Have you thought of a name for the dragon?" Missandei wondered and Will shook his head no.

"A name might make the raising process easier. And it'll help that we don't have to call him dragon." Arthur added and Will thought it over. The dragons of legend had names derived from Old Valyrian and held significance to House Targaryen. Balerion the Black Dread, Meraxes, Vhagar were named after old Valryian gods if the stories are true so maybe if this was his dragon then he should name it after something of similar important like how he named his eagle after House Baratheon's ancestor Orys Baratheon. Which gave him an idea as Orys Baratheon won the Stormlands after defeated House Durrandon who were the Storm Kings during the age of heroes. Seemed like a good idea.

"Durran…" Will suggested. "After Durran Godsgrief who became king of the Stormlands and founded House Durrandon. My ancestor Orys Baratheon claimed Storm's End and everything after defeating the head of House Durrandon. And legends claim he was King Aegon's half-brother. But if it wasn't for them then my father and I wouldn't be here so naming the dragon after the men who came before us makes sense."

"Fitting and well thought. What's the Valryian for Storm King?" Arthur wondered.

"Jelmazma darys." Missandei answered.

"I'll stick with Durran. It's simpler." Will said and looked at the dragon. "Durran the dragon does have a nice ring to it."

The dragon flexed its wings and let out a happy screech which seemed to indicate he was happy as well. There was a knock on the door so Missandei got up to check who it was. "It's your brothers, your grace."

"Good. Let them in." Will stood up and Missandei opened the door so Edric and Gendry walked in with his swords. They put their swords down and rushed over and the three brothers shared a group hug. Will was glad to see his young brothers while Gendry and Edric were happy to see William walking around and looking healthy.

"You're back on your feet. We were worried that you wouldn't have your strength back." Gendry said to him.

"I'm still a little weak given how long I've been asleep for but I'm getting there." Will playfully messed with their hair and noticed they were more toned. Guess they must have stuck to their training. "I'm glad to see you two are all right. And I heard that you two did admirable work when the pyramid was under attack. I'm proud of you."

"Well, we've done what you've trained us to do." Gendry pointed out.

"How are you feeling? Really?" Edric wondered.

"Well, some of my strength has waned a bit from my deep sleep but I can breathe easy and I haven't felt any pain or issues from the poison." He answered as his brothers put his swords back and sat down with him and the others where they could see the dragon sitting on the table and nibbling at the remnants of the roasted fish.

"And your mind?" Gendry asked.

"Well, I can think straight and I don't hear voices in my head so that's a good sign." Will managed to put into a positive spin and everyone was glad about that. "I guess my only question is whether or not everything I dreamt of in my deep sleep was actually a dream. I'd like to think so but considering what happened that brought me back to the land of the living and little Durran on the table then I'm not so sure."

"Durran?" Edric was confused.

"It's what he's named the Dragon. After Durran Godsgrief from the Age of Heroes." Arthur answered and Edric nodded.

"I still can't believe he is real…" Gendry looked at the dragon and it looked back. "You must be really glad you kept the egg now, huh?"

"I am. Just…wondering what this little guy means for our future." Will put his hand down and Durran climbed on. Will walked over and put him back in his little enclosure for safe keeping. "Orys, keep an eye on him."

The eagle seemed to understand what he said and kept a watchful eye on the dragon's cage. "We'll make sure to keep several Unsullied guards outside your room so nothing happens." Arthur told him.

"Thank you. Cedric, do you think you can gather everyone for a meeting in one of the large chambers. I'd like to talk to them." William told him.

"Of course, your grace." Cedric got up to leave when Will motioned him to wait for a moment.

"But one more moment. There's something I'd like to do now for Edric and Gendry and I'd appreciate it if you were here too." He said, earning confused looks from everyone. Will walked over to corner of the room where his trunk was and went to the large crate he received from Quathor in Volantis along with two other boxes. The small one contained the daggers he gave to Hercules and the others after he managed to make peace with his past and decided to follow the Prince of his own free will and oath and the medium size one was his armored vambraces. The biggest box he had never opened until now.

He opened the box and pulled out two large cases and put them on the ground. "So, inside the box were more boxes?" Gendry joked which earned a few chuckles from everyone.

"If you don't want what's inside then I can put them back." Will pointed out.

"Sorry."

William opened up the two cases to reveal two different items. One was the head of an axe-hammer. The blade was sharp and curved while the hammer stud was thick and heavy. The other item was a five-pronged trident head. Each tip of the weapon was razor sharp and barbed so it would do extra damage when pulled out of an enemy but the barbs were fairly smooth and edged so they could also be used for slight cutting. Both weapon heads were made of a similar steel-colored metal and based on the pattern etched into the metal they were made of Valyrian steel but only the blade on the axe-hammer was made of Valryian steel. The actual hammer part didn't have the same pattern so it was likely just steel. (1)

"This is what I used with the rest of the excess steel. Weapon heads for the two of you. With everything else I had Quathor make…it was just enough for the blade parts." William said to his brothers. "I was going to give them to you when I thought you were ready…so maybe you are now."

Gendry and Edric walked over to see their weapons with their own eyes. One was an axe-hammer and the other was a trident-spear so they could guess which was meant for who. "A trident?" Edric asked his brother.

"Technically I believe it's called something different with the five prongs but let's stick with trident. You've advanced quickly with a spear from your training with Amphiaraus so I decided to make it more special. A trident like the ancient Storm Kings from the age of heroes." Will suggested as Edric picked up the trident head and smirked.

"It'll take some getting used to but I think I can make it work." Edric replied as Gendry picked up the axe-hammer head. It was a little heavy but he was able to lift it.

"And you've been favoring the axe over the sword lately so I decided to give you something along that line." Will said to Gendry.

"Nicely made but there's no handle." Gendry pointed out.

"That is for you and Edric to have made. These weapons are yours so whatever you want done for your handles, pommels, guards, shafts, or whatever else you want then you must decide." William told them. "This is a big responsibility. These are tools, not toys and you should treat them as such. They will require a great deal of training to get accustomed to but treat them right and they will keep you safe. Do you understand?"

Gendry and Edric nodded and understood the responsibility their older brother was giving to them but they were also excited to have Valyrian steel weapons of their own. "We'll help you get your weapons ready later and don't think this means that your training gets any easier." Arthur warned them.

"We know." They replied.

"Good." Will gave them another hug before messing with their hair a bit. "All right. It's time I speak with everyone and help dissuade their fears and concerns."

"I'll get everyone convened in the conference room." Cedric told him as he walked out.

"Let's go, you two. Come on." Arthur ushered Gendry and Edric out as they carried their new gifts out of the room. Missandei got the prince's clothing and laid it out on the bed which included a new pair of trousers since the last one got an arrow through the leg.

"Thank you, Missandei." She smiled and bowed her head before walking out.

William removed his sleep tunic and wet a small towel in the basin of water which he used to wash his face and neck. He looked in a mirror and noticed he had a bit of a beard and mustache growing probably since he's been asleep for so long so he lathered his face with some soap and shaved. After a nice shave, he wet his hair and combed it back before putting on a light white tunic and new pants before lacing up his boots. Both his Valyrian steel daggers went into the sheaths in his boots before he put on his jacket which felt like slipping on a glove. He then put on his vambraces and tightened them before activating both hidden blades to make sure they were working right. He walked out of the room but not before grabbing Storm's Wrath and tightening it around his waist. Ser Arthur, Missandei, Grey Worm and the Unsullied outside the room were gifted the sight of seeing William the Conqueror Baratheon back in the land of the living and looking like his old self again.

"Look good, my prince." Arthur said with a smile and William smiled back.

"Feeling good, Ser Arthur Dayne." He replied as the group made their way through the pyramid to the meeting room.

Line Break xxxxx

Cedric assembled everyone in the meeting room which usually would take some effort but everyone was eager to see the prince after what happened. Cedric gathered Stannis Baratheon, Ser Davos Seaworth, Smalljon Umber, Harion Karstark, Thoros of Myr, Beric Dondarrion, Tyrion Lannister, Garlan Tyrell, Hundred Eyes, and Oberyn Martell in the room along with Hercules and his men. Many were anxious and in a rare moment of vulnerability and actual emotion, so was the usual stoic Stannis Baratheon.

"How did the prince seem, Cedric?" Stannis asked the prince's tutor and trusted advisor.

"He has his questions and his dreams during the whole event were rather odd…but he appears the same. In fact, this morning he attempted his usual training regimen like nothing had changed." Cedric pointed out which many took as a good sign. "Physically his body has recovered. His lungs are clear, his veins haven't discolored, and there appears to be no physical hampering after his arrow wound healed. With more time and some training, he should be back to how he was before."

"But how was his mental state?" Stannis asked him.

"Stannis Baratheon is right to have some concern." Oberyn said as he walked over to join them. "In Dorne, the effects of the Manticore and its venom are more well known then the rest of Westeros. None have ever survived its affects which makes the prince's recovery nothing short of a miracle. But he's been asleep for so long and we have no idea what demons might have lurked in the prince's mind during that time or what cracks might have formed. I've known the prince a lot less then the rest of you and he is a strong and smart young man but even the strongest minds have breaking points."

"Agreed which is why the prince has us to guide and advise him." Cedric pointed out.

"I imagine the advisors of Kind Aerys and Prince Rhaegar thought the same at one point." Smalljon Umber stated which earned him some looks of contempt.

"The prince is not the Mad King." Davos told him.

"I would hope so." They heard as William walked in with Missandei, Arthur Dayne, his brothers, Grey Worm and some Unsullied. "Otherwise, my father fought a rebellion for no reason if his son and the crowned prince turns out to be no better than the man he overthrew."

"Your grace." Everyone bowed their heads.

"Apologies, your grace." Smalljon told him.

"It's quite all right, Smalljon. I understand a lot has happened and many of you have questions, most of all me." Will motioned everyone to relax. "First off I just want to thank each and every one of you for the work you've put into keeping me safe and ensure Yunkai did not fall to disarray. I know it couldn't have been easy with everything going on and I truly appreciate all that you've done."

"The honor was ours, your grace." Garlan Tyrell replied.

"I understand you all have questions and I'm going to do my best to answer them. But I'd be foolish and naïve to ignore all the concern you must have given what happened." William admitted. "We are in uncharted waters here but let me be the first to assuage all of you that despite what happened and the circumstances surrounding my…recovery…I believe that I returned the same person I used to be. Despite my personal claims, I can understand how that might not be enough for some of you and you will still have your reservations so I hope to prove to all of you in time that I haven't lost my mind. And I also make this one promise: should any of you notice anything off about any of my actions or behavior then you must speak up and stop me. And I've even given Ser Arthur Dayne an important task should the worst happen."

"What task?" Stannis wondered as Ser Arthur Dayne took a deep breath. Clearly whatever he was tasked to do was very important and difficult.

"The prince has made me swore that should the worst happen and his mind begins to slip like that of the Mad King then I, as his sword shield will help him back onto the right path…or kill him should it be too late." Arthur said with a heavy heart and everyone was shocked to hear that.

"Surely you can't be serious, your grace?" Lord Dondarrion asked him.

"I wouldn't jest about something this serious. Westeros has been through one mad man and it led to a rebellion. I wouldn't see it put through another one if my mind breaks. This should let you all know how serious I am and that I'm not taking any of this lightly." He said and they understood that. It was rare for a lord let alone a prince to give an order to be put down if something happens. Then again these were strange times and Ser Arthur Dayne's judgement of the prince would be a bit biased but still it showed either a tremendous amount of personal responsibility or idiocy.

"We understand, your grace." Smalljon Umber spoke, making up for his statement earlier.

"Now, let us begin this meeting so can discuss what's going on with the city and what to do going forward." He said and everyone sat down around the table of maps and figures.

For the next few hours, Will was brought up to speed on the going-ons of Yunkai, the status of Slaver's Bay, word from his contacts in the various guilds, and movement from his enemies. The remnants of the Golden Company were still being held as prisoners and were pretty much all that remained of the once fabled army of sellswords. The lieutenants and captains were all killed so the only people of note left were the sellswords who had been with the company longer than the newest recruits. They didn't have anything of value in terms of intelligences so they were kept as prisoners for now. Same with the assassin and the Lannister guards that helped in his infiltration. After the interrogations, the assassin and Lannister guards were kept in their cells for later judgement. Word of the Golden Company's defeat had spread from the city to the rest of Essos and definitely Westeros by now so the Triarch knew their planned failed. And it was a surprise for Will to learn that the Triarchs had hired the Lannister guards to aid their assassins in their attempt on his life when he was in his deep sleep. He was for sure that a blonde-haired woman back in Westeros had some part to play and he wasn't the only one but there was no other evidence or confession. Still, there was no movement or whispers from any other armies or groups in Essos. The news of the Golden Company's defeat must have shaken the resolve of any potential future enemies and now were playing wait and see but everyone had a feeling it wouldn't stay quiet for long.

As for the city itself, things were in a good standing. The people were happy with the influx of more goods coming from Astapor and the slowly developing small port outside the city. With the discovery of the water well by the birchwood forest to the south, Yunkai had greater access to clean water and the canal and waterway to the city was being built as we speak which also meant more work for the people which was a good thing. One thing fed another and another. The schools were tending to the children and giving them skills and an education while the guilds and City watch militia catered to the adults. Plus, the city's pleasure houses and such kept everyone happy. Yunkai wouldn't lose its moniker as a pleasure city but it was no longer a slave pleasure city which was a win. The council were happy as the prince's efforts led to them being given more power and money then before with slaves like in Astapor and given how he saved them from the Golden Company helped as well. Still, there were some issues as was normal with a city. Drunken brawls, thefts, and such but life seemed better than before.

There was a small break for refreshments and food before the meeting would continue as Will wrote down everything of note into his personal journal. "Cedric, we'll convene with the council later about creating enclosures outside the city for farms and mills. That will provide more jobs and have a positive effect in the long run." Will told him.

"Yes, your grace." Cedric replied.

"It's like you haven't lost a step, your grace." Harion Karstark remarked. "I imagine most people would want to relax and rest after what you've been through."

"I was asleep for long enough. There's still work to be done." He replied. "Most of all is making sure things in Yunkai are stable and secure before the push on to Meereen and then secure Slaver's Bay."

"Which reminds me that it will probably need a new name after we're done with it." Tyrion pointed out which earned a few chuckles from everyone."

"Autolycus." Will said, getting his attention. "Start working with Lord Dondarrion and preparing scout teams to head to Meereen. I wouldn't have us caught unaware with any kind of tricks they might have."

"Already have plans and men recruited for that." Autolycus replied.

"What kind of tricks and surprises could Meereen have for us that we haven't already faced?" Iolaus asked, thinking there was nothing that could surprise them.

"Underestimating your enemies is a trait the Masters of Slaver's Bay tend to favor. One which I will not fall prey to." Will stated and everyone agreed. "Cornered animals are often the most dangerous. We should expect nothing less."

"I see you're still all business and no pleasure, your grace. Glad to see nothing's changed." Oberyn remarked.

"That about handles everything except for one thing your grace. The status of the prisoners." Lord Dondarrion told him. "The Golden Company along with the assassin and Lannister guards we still have in the dungeons."

"The men responsible for leading the Golden Company are all dead. Some of them by people in this room. Atalanta struck down Black Balaq, Ser Arthur Dayne beheaded Myles Toyne and I killed Jon Connington. All that are left were just sellswords, men who joined the company because they thought they had no place left. And there are a few people who used to be Sellswords in this very group and they've proven to be invaluable." Will commented and everyone agreed. "I'll give them same choice I gave the Dothraki and the Second Sons. A chance to flee with their lives."

"Your grace are you sure that's such a good idea?" Stannis asked him.

"I trusted the men here to interrogate the survivors and based on the meeting we had none of them had any knowledge of value. And Yunkai is a protectorate and didn't fight against the Golden Company so I have no reason or right to force them to hold onto the prisoners. Two thousand is too much. But I'll have one more word with them before they're sent on their way. A fair reminder of what happened." Will said and everyone nodded.

"And the prisoners in the dungeons? The assassin's in sorry shape and the remaining six Lannister guards are begging to be let go and returned to Westeros. Pieces of golden shit. No offense, Tyrion." Hercules stated.

"None taken. They signed their fate the moment they decided to help on the failed endeavor. I doubt my father will care that much about the lives of some of his house guard but I'm sure my sister will make a fuss about how they were framed and such." Tyrion pointed out.

"Well, we're not in Westeros and she's not my mother. I'm thankful to the gods on the last part." Will stated which earned a chuckle from Tyrion and the others. "Their fates are set in stone I won't argue that but I would like to speak to them before the sentence is carried out. And I'll do it myself."

"There's no need, your grace. We'll take care of it for you." Thoros assured him.

"Thank you, Thoros but it was me they were trying to kill so it's only fair that I end this." He replied, remembering something his uncle Ned told him back during the Greyjoy Rebellion. "My uncle, Lord Eddard Stark told me something that has always lingered in the back of my mind. The blood of the First Men flows through my veins as does the Andals. It is Stark blood and the Starks hold believe that the man who passes the sentence should swing the sword. I've asked that no man in this group ever do something that I wouldn't do so I shall be there."

Everyone smiled at the Prince's declaration. He was young but had the best qualities of the men before him. "Well put, your grace." Davos commended him.

"The last item of the day is something I believe all of you saw the night I awoken and for those of you that are superstitious, believe it has something to do with the red comet streaking through the sky." Will stated and everyone nodded. "The dragon is currently confined to my quarters under watchful eye of Orys and the Unsullied. Despite everyone's understandable fears of the creature…it's nothing more than a baby. No different than a newborn raven."

"With all due respect, your grace this is a dragon. It's not the same as being gifted Orys from the Summer Isles or getting a pet dog. It's a dragon." Ser Davos reminded him.

"They're the creatures of legend that breathed fire, slaughtered thousands, and were the ruling power for the Targaryens." Harion Karstark added. "Your ancestor Torrhen Stark knelt before them because of the dragons."

"And my other ancestor Orys Baratheon fought alongside them to win Storm's End." William added. "I understand all of your fear my lords, I do but it wasn't the dragons that led the Targaryens to madness. It was their Valyrian custom of inbreeding that did that. The dragons were nothing more than animals, war mounts for them to use and those dragons died out long ago. This dragon was born to William the Conqueror of House Baratheon, son of King Robert Baratheon and Lyanna Stark. And its egg came from the old lands of Valyria. It has nothing to do with House Targaryen."

"The prince is right." Hercules said, getting everyone to look at him. "I know I may not know as much Westerosi history as the rest of you but it's just an animal. And from what I can remember of your history…a very trainable animal."

"Hercules is right. A dragon would make a lot of our past battles much easier. And it's only fair that the new Conqueror gets a dragon of his own. There's a nice amount of irony in that." Autolycus joked. "The son of the King who ended the Dragon's dynasty now having his own to use as his title of Conqueror."

"The dragon is nothing more than a babe. Nowhere near ready for combat." Cedric pointed out.

"If that will ever happen which I don't know. All I do know is that this is an animal who cannot be blamed for the actions of its kin that died out centuries ago on the actions of a house that has also died out. I would not hold any of you personally responsible for the actions of your kin as I hope none of you would hold me responsible for mine. If anything, I'm trying to make up for those acts." William said and they all agreed.

"So, what will you do?" Stannis asked.

"For now, wait and see. The dragon is still young and cannot even breath fire yet. It's no more harmful or dangerous then a chicken. When the day comes that the dragon gets older and we must discuss what happens next…I would have you all here again to discuss any and all options available. You have my word." William stated and everyone liked that idea. He looked outside the balcony and saw it was around mid-day which was a good stopping point. "This was a productive meeting. Thank you all for attending. You have your tasks set for you. We'll reconvene on another day."

Everyone nodded and got up from their seats, stretching their muscles as sitting for so long was exhausting. They proceeded to exit the room one by one until there were a handful of people remaining. Among them were Ser Davos Seaworth and Stannis Baratheon. William handed Cedric the reports and maps from the meeting and he was accompanied by some Unsullied guards and workers to take them to his chambers for the later meetings with the Yunkish Council. Afterward he walked over to his uncle and Ser Davos, both of whom bowed.

"Your grace."

"Lord Stannis, Ser Davos." Will bowed back before he ushered them to relax. He then hugged his uncle and after the initial shock Stannis hugged back and managed a slight smirk, patting William on the back. "It's good to see you again, Uncle."

"And you, nephew." Stannis said to him before Will shook hands with Ser Davos and brought him in for a quick hug.

"You're looking good, Ser Davos. I trust that things have been pleasant since we last saw each other. How are your wife and son?" He wondered.

"Oh, my wife worries when I'm at sea and then she worries my son but that's usual. Although my job has gotten easier. Guarding trade convoys has become simple when no sane pirate would dare strike against the accompanying war galleys you had commissioned by the arsenal of Braavos to assist in trade transportation." Ser Davos pointed out and Will smiled.

"I aim to please. A part of me wishes you had stuck with me after the Summer Isles. Things got rather interesting and I think you and Mr. Gibbs would become fast friends."

"Aye and you'd be right. I've known men like Mr. Gibbs. Fine sailors, excellent captains and can drink you under the table like they're drinking water but I don't think my heart could take your surprises." Davos replied. "Must less the most recent one. I don't think I'd ever live to see an actual dragon back in the land of the living."

"That makes two of us." He replied.

"How are you nephew?" Stannis asked him again.

"On my feet again and slowly but surely my strength will return to normal. I still have work to do here. I'm glad to see you again."

"It wasn't a planned visit. After the message Ser Arthur Dayne sent your father, he sent us to check on you. We were concerned, even more so when we saw whatever happened that night." Stannis pointed out and Will agreed.

"I understand and I agree. Just hearing about it makes me concerned. I've never put faith in the tales of old about magic but from what everyone said happened last night then…I'm not sure." He admitted.

"That red woman…Kinvara…she's dangerous." Ser Davos warned him.

"I know and I agree." He replied. "She's helped me but she's dangerous. I was hoping that you two and your men would linger in Essos a little longer…at least until we march to Meereen. Having two more trusted men watching my back would do a lot to lift the worry I have."

"As you wish, your grace." Stannis and Ser Davos bowed their heads.

"Thank you. I hope you are settled comfortably and don't worry, Uncle. I'll write a letter back to my father." Will promised.

"And what will you tell him about the dragon?" Stannis wondered.

"I'm not sure yet." Will admitted. "If you two would need anything then just ask. You can talk with Cedric about what you can help with but there are some people in the dungeons I would like to speak with. If you'll excuse me."

Will left with Missandei, Ser Arthur Dayne, Hercules, and his men out of the room as Stannis and Ser Davos watched. "Well, he seemed like the William we know." Davos pointed out.

"Aye, he does. Let's hope he stays that way." Stannis replied. He did not like to entertain the idea of having to fight against his own nephew. He might not like his brothers that much but his nephew was a different story.

Line Break xxxxx

After a long walk and climb downstairs, Will and his group arrived in the dungeons. The Unsullied clacked their spears as he walked by and arrived at the assassin's cell. He was still shackled to the chair but looked worse for wear. His clothing was disheveled as was his hair and Will noticed both hands were cut off and bandaged to prevent him from bleeding out. There were no more physical wounds on his body other than the cut on his cheek which was a faint red. It was his facial expression that indicated he went through a great deal of pain.

"What happened to him?" Will asked.

"Oberyn was in charge of interrogation. He used Basilisk Blood mixed with some kind of herbs and stuff and turned it into a painful non-lethal poison." Hercules explained. "It was both impressive and terrifying."

"Remind me not to piss off Oberyn." He remarked. "And his hands?"

"I did that." Arthur pointed out. "Oberyn gave him the antidote when he finished talking. He wasn't lying."

The assassin looked up at the people outside his cell and lingered his gaze at William. A part of him was wondering how he was alive and breathing but after the pain he went through he just wanted his life to end. Will could see it in his eyes. A part of him had pity seeing the man in such a state but he was an assassin for hire and was hired to kill him not to mention the other people he has hurt or could have been killed had anything gone wrong. Nothing was going to change his fate now.

Will then walked over to the cell a few over and the seven surviving Lannister guards sitting around. Long gone were the golden lions in the red armor and now just desperate men who wanted to go home. The second they saw the crowned prince alive and walking again they started to get nervous. "I thought you were asleep?" One of the men spoke.

"I woke up." He replied as he looked at them. "I hope you all remember the dream of what it was like to be free and the plans you had for the gold you were given because that's all you have now."

"You can't do this to us!" One of the Lannister men charged at the cell door and tried to yank it open. Everyone readied their hands on a weapon incase he got free but he just yelled in anger and pulled at the bars. "We're men of the Lannisters of Casterly Rock!"

"We're not at Casterly Rock or even in Westeros. I told Tyrion and all of you this when you arrived that they can't save you." Will reminded them.

"When Lord Tywin finds out about this then you're a dead man! Queen Cersei will have your head for this!"

"You're either very stupid or you think you're worth so much to them." Autolycus joked.

"My friend is right. You seven are just house guards. Soldiers for them to use and you were assigned to protect Tyrion. You're not nobles or even the sons of notable men of House Lannister. Even then it wouldn't save you. You helped assassins sneak into the city and try to kill me, son of the King of Westeros. Queen Cersei might protest but there's nothing she can do here and when Lord Tywin hears what you idiots tried to do then he'd just kill you himself. Make peace with your lives and gods, gentlemen. You won't have a tomorrow." Will promised before he left.

After his visit to the dungeons, Will and his group walked out of the pyramid to the stables. He walked in and saw Roach who immediately let out a happy neigh as he walked over and pat the horse on the head.

"Good to see you too, buddy." Will pat Roach on the head and the horse licked him in the face and happily nudged him. "What do you say, you up for a ride?"

The horse nodded so Will saddled up and ushered Roach out of the sable. Roach happily reared his head back and let out a happy neigh as Will pat him on the side. "It's good to be back."

The ride through the city was nice and the people were happy to see him. They hadn't seen him since the battle with the Golden Company so many thought he was seriously injured or dead but seeing him ride through the city proved that wrong. When they were clear of the city walls, Will could see that the small remnants of the battle outside of Yunkai was cleaned up. Hercules led them to the small prison encampment where the Unsullied were guarding the survivors of the Golden Company. Less than two thousand remained and were camped outside the city since there wasn't anyplace to hold them in Yunkai and the less they knew the better. There was a small town of tents, fires set up around, they were given food and water but all their weapons, gold, and everything else were taken. While there were many of them, they were surrounded by a rotating group of Unsullied, Dothraki riders, and Westerosi Knights and soldiers so they were always fresh and still outnumbered. It would have been suicide to try and escape and after the show of force Hercules and the others made in getting information after the prince's poisoning, they knew not to press their luck.

Will looked over the crowd of men, many of whom noticed his arrival and were shocked he had awoken. "So, how do you want to do this?" Arthur Dayne asked him.

"Simple." He cleared his throat. "Attention, all of you! Your leaders are dead and the Golden Company is no more! You have two choices: stay and pledge allegiance or leave! Those that wish to leave will be given transportation to another city and no harm shall come to them! You have my word! For those that wish to stay and pledge allegiance then think wisely on that choice! You will no longer be sellswords for that time is over but you will be treated with fairness and given an opportunity to prove your worthiness to stay! The choice is yours!"

With that, Will ushered Roach around and trotted away. "Huh, simple it is." Iolaus remarked.

Will spent the rest of the day going around the city and familiarizing himself with any changes that happened while he was asleep. He was able to see the work being done on the water well by the birchwood forests, the slowly growing food and crops and the building of the canal to the city. He walked around Yunkai and met with the people, he and Cedric met with the Yunkish Council who were happy to see him around and then sent out the letters and scrolls to the cities and people who needed them.

When the sun set, Will and his group gathered outside the city walls for the execution of the assassin and the Lannister guards who helped him. Other then the prince and his party, there was a carriage near by with several wooden coffins to transport the bodies. The assassin and seven Lannister men stood shoulder to shoulder with their hands tied behind their backs. Will walked forward until he was about ten meters from them with his bow in his hand and quiver on his back.

"If any of you have any last minute words…now's the time." He told them.

The assassin stayed silent but one of the Lannisters just spit on the ground. "Fuck you and your whore mother!"

"Oh boy. He shouldn't have said that." Arthur remarked.

"And those are you last words." Will quickly pulled out two arrows and fired them at the same time at the man who spoke about his mother. One arrow went straight into the heart while the other went into his head and with both shots he was dead the second he hit the ground. His sudden quick shots caught the other Lannisters off guard before he fired six more arrows in rapid succession, hitting direct heart shots on the rest of them. They fell down one by one and it was over.

"Glad to see you haven't your lost, your grace." Ser Davos pointed out as he put his bow on his back.

"Put the Lannister men in the coffins and send them back to Westeros." Will said and some of the men began moving the bodies into the coffins. They would then be taken to a waiting ship and sailed back to Westeros.

"I still think we shouldn't waste the effort and just burn their bodies." Gendry stated.

"It'd be a waste of fuel." Will replied.

"And the assassin? Should we bury his body?" Autolycus suggested.

"Perhaps we should send a message to the Triarch. Warning them about what they've done and that they're next." Edric suggested.

"Scare the masters of Volantis? I like the sound of that." Smalljon Umber remarked.

"Fear can be a useful tool and against men like them I wouldn't be opposed to it." Will replied.

"What's the message?" Arthur wondered as Will thought it over. He would send three messages out that night. One to his father to let me know he was all right. One to Tywin Lannister. And one to the Triarch promising them that they wouldn't die of old age. Will wasn't losing his mind. If anything, it had sharpened like a knife.

Line Break xxxxx

Back in Westeros…

King Robert looked out at the balcony of his room of the Red Keep at King's Landing. It was a rare moment of the morning where he was surprisingly sober and without female companionship. Ever since he heard of his son's attack and condition of a deep sleep, he had not taken to his usual vices. He was too burdened by worry. A part of him would like nothing more than to sail across the ocean and be with his son but he was stuck in King's Landing. Stannis and Davos should have gotten there by now but the Spider heard nothing of their ship going down so something must have happened.

Luckily his worrisome mind was broken when he heard knocking at his door. "It's Lord Arryn, your grace." Barristan Selmy announced on the other side of the door.

"Send him in!" Robert shouted and Jon immediately walked into the room with a letter in his hand. "How is my son? How's William?"

"He's fine, your grace. He woke up and Cedric says he is in good health. He even wrote you the letter." Jon smiled as he handed the letter to Robert.

Robert took the letter with haste and read it as fast as he could.

Dear Father,

I hope this letter finds you in good spirits and if not then I hope it lifts you up to them.

I am well again. I have awoken from my deep sleep with my mind and body intact. I wouldn't not be writing you this letter if it weren't for the fearless loyalty and dedication of the people I've brought along and met on my journey. People I'm sure you'd love to meet. To help sway your fear that this could be someone else writing to you, I hope you remember what you said to me before we left and my reply.

You arrived to see me off on a fool-hardy journey and I replied that it would not be so if I sent back a ship full of the Summer Isles best plum wine which I did. Then you remarked about sending one of the native girls and said I should get one. You told me to make my mark on history as the Blue Wolf and to add another title on my name. And I said I want to make my own destiny. And only your son would know that when you're drunk you try to sing like a minstrel and sing the Bear and the Maiden Fair.

Robert chuckled when he read that. He knew that William sent the letter.

I'm sorry for any worry that my journey has given you but I would not be doing this if I didn't think it was important. Like you and Uncle Eddard, I wish to make my own mark on history and doing so in Essos is just the start. I will return to King's Landing and be the prince and hopefully future King it deserves and make you proud. When you hear news of my future exploits, take pride that it is William the Conqueror, Son of King Robert Baratheon who makes slavers shit their pants, trampled the Dothraki, destroyed the Golden Company and freed Slaver's Bay. And should you hear of any deaths coming from Volantis…that will likely be me as well.

Take care, father and know that I will return to you.

Your son, William.

One last wish. For you to drink less wine and pick up your Warhammer again. When I return to King's Landing, I would like to see how I fare against you and it wouldn't be a fair fight against a man with such…roundness. Perhaps you can show me how ferocious you were on the Ruby Ford all those years ago. Provided you can fit into your armor again.

Robert laughed at the last part as did Jon. "That boy reminds me of Lyanna." He spoke.

"And he has your drive. The best of both of you and he's not wrong that you've developed a certain…roundness." Jon told him.

"Bah! I'm fine. I can still fit into my old armor!" Robert boasted but his bulging belly coming out of his tunic did little to prove his point. "If that boy wants to fight the Stag King then I'll give him a fight. Get me Lancel, prep the training yards and grab my hammer."

Jon nodand walked out of the room with a small smile on his face. Perhaps William might actually get Robert to trim down. It seems impossible but the prince has had a habit of doing the impossible. If only he knew how right he was.

With Tywin Lannister…

Tywin Lannister was sitting in his solar at Casterly Rock, going over some reports on his finances and such. Tedious work but important, nevertheless. Overseeing the operations of the mines of the Westerlands along with all his houses and lords while reading reports on the activities of his children, their actions, and their impacts on House Lannister. Tywin Lannister finished signing and sealing a letter when an attendant arrive. "Lord Tywin, something arrived from the port of Lannisport that I believe you should see."

Tywin followed his attendant down the keep to the entrance where he saw a horse pulled wagon and various coffins in the back. He walked over to see for himself what was in the coffins and saw the dead and decaying bodies of the men he sent with Tyrion. Based on the smell and bugs flying around them they had been dead a while. "And Tyrion?" Tywin wondered.

"There was no other body, your grace. But there was this attached to one of the coffins." His attendant handed him a letter with the split seal of the Stag and Wolf which meant it was the prince. He opened up the letter and the more he read the more he was intrigued and frustrated.

Dear Lord Tywin

I apologize if the contents of the coffins that accompany this note is shocking but let me assure you that this was not meant as a slight. The bodies before you are your men who accompanied Tyrion but aided assassins sent from the Triarchs of Volantis to try and kill me. It was confirmed by Ser Arthur Dayne and my compatriots with witnesses including your own son, Tyrion. It would appear that the Triarchs reached out to your men and in exchange for gold they would assist the assassins in taking my life and flee in the dead of night. Suffice to say they failed.

Yes they were your men but they aided in an attempt on my life and were dealt with accordingly. This comes as no offense meant but I would advise that you inform your family, lords, and men against thoughts of treason…especially if they miss.

I bid you good fortune, Lord Tywin

William Baratheon

Tywin read the letter and was honestly surprised not to find any major threats or warnings. It's what he figured Robert would do and judging by how he hadn't gotten any letters of warning from Cersei, Jaime, or Grand Maester Pycelle or shouting for his head then William must not have said anything to his father. It was either out of respect and thinking Tywin had nothing to do with this which is true or not wanting to ignite something that would put the country into a potential conflict. Whatever it was, he was wishing the men were still alive so he could kill them again and have the Mountain rip their heads off.

"What would you like to do with the bodies, lord Tywin?" His attendant asked.

"Burn them or feed them to the worms, I don't care. And ready my horse and a party. We're going to King's Landing. I have to speak to my children." Tywin stated.

In Volantis…

While Volantis was still the central hub for the slave trade, it wasn't as vibrant or profitable as it used to be due to the interference going on in Slaver's Bay. What was thought to be a minor occurrence turned into a severe problem, one that the Triarchs tried to have handled on two occasions only to fail miserably. Triarchs Malaqua Maegyr and Nyessos Vhassar were more worried then ever. Their bid for the Golden Company cost them a fortune and they were defeated. The fabled company was destroyed and dead as their prized war elephants with their bones becoming one with the sand. There was no other company on Essos that had the numbers they needed unless they bought out all the armies and pirates skirmishing in the disputed lands and then bought more. Taking on the Conqueror now would require the effort of not just the Triarchs of Volantis but the other cities involved in the slave trade.

A slave attendant walked into the chamber where the three Triarchs were arguing over what to do with Slaver's Bay and interrupted their meeting.

"WHAT?!" Triarch Malaqua shouted in anger.

"A package, Triarch Malaqua. From Yunkai." The slave informed him and the three were taken to the hallway where a large crate was waiting for them. It reeked of decayed flesh and when they got close they knew why. Inside the crate was the body of one of the assassins they sent to try and kill the prince but clearly failed. His body had been dead for a while but what was jarring were the two arrows embedded in the chest that pinned a piece of paper there.

It was a warning and fairly simple one with only four words: You missed. I won't.

Yunkai

The birchwood forest to the south of Yunkai had changed from a rather ignored part of the road in between Yunkai and Astapor to a growing development area by the cliff faces and ocean. Fresh water wells were dug up, the land was properly and sufficiently irrigated to grow new crops and a water canal was being worked on from the forest to Yunkai. Along with that was the ongoing construction of the nearby docks so ships could weigh anchor to Yunkai and the beginnings of a saw and water mill. While the docks and mills would take time to build, the canal was a priority as it would help provide clean and fresh water to Yunkai.

The projects attracted a lot of work for people and it was good honest work that would help the city and its people. The route of the canal was dug so now stone and bricks were being laid out. Workers used pickaxes to break apart large clumps of stone and rock so it could be mixed into bricks while other dug the canal path with shovels. Farmers tended to the crops and water was gathered into barrels for transport to Yunkai until the canal was dug. Everyone helped out with children assisting in minor tasks and those that couldn't lift or dig provided food and aid. Among those helping was the Conqueror himself.

Wearing just his boots, pants, and a garb of cloth tied around his mouth to protect him from the dust as the constant work and heat of the sun made wearing his jacket and even tunic unbearable, William used a pick axe to chip away at the large clumps of stone which were being turns into bricks. While it could be seen as manual labor and it was, that wasn't it's only purpose. The hard work in the fields allowed him to build up his strength and get stronger while also providing additional help so two things with one action. The repeated strikes with the pick axe gave him full body movement and built up muscle which was on clear display. With his shirt and jacket off, he defined upper body was for view. Defined six pack and pectoral muscles, strong arms, broad shoulders, and quite the eye candy for the Sand Snakes.

"Very impressive." Nymeria commented as she, Tyene, and Obara were with their father and Ellaria in the shade. They were watching the construction with intrigue and while they were being unhelpful the other members of his party weren't. Ser Arthur Dayne, Thoros of Myr, Beric Dondarrion, Hercules and his group, even Edric and Gendry were helping. Stannis and Davos went on their ships to assist Mr. Gibbs in escorting some trade ships but would be back soon.

"The prince? Very." Tyene remarked as she watched him work. He was very handsome and watching him work in the sun without his shirt on and sweat pouring down his skin was a very tantalizing sight. It was obvious that Nymeria and Tyene had the prince in their sights.

"Be careful, girls. The boy is an excellent warrior and leader but appears to be rather green in the bedroom." Oberyn cautioned them.

"Oh, interesting. Given who his father is I would have figured him to be as much of a lover of sex as him." Ellaria commented.

"Perhaps we can change that." Tyene suggested.

"Don't get any bright ideas, little sister. I think the prince would prefer a woman and not a little girl." Nymeria told her and the two glared daggered at one another.

"Sluts…" Obara remarked, sharpening her spear.

"To the victor go the spoils." Oberyn joked when a shovel and pickaxe were tossed down next to him. They looked to see it was the Prince and Ser Arthur Dayne.

"This isn't a vacation. You've fought my enemies, likely fucked more than half the people in the city, and now you help. When you're out here you help work so start digging or making bricks." Will told him. "Hard work keeps a man honest, Prince Oberyn so get started."

Will walked away and Ser Arthur chuckled as he walked with the prince to get some water. "Forceful…very good. That will come in handy." Nymeria remarked as Oberyn picked up a shovel to help. It wasn't because he was eager to start digging but more along the lines of him wanting to get closer to Hercules. Oberyn wouldn't stop until he could get the big man into his bed. An ambitious but foolhardy goal.

Will and Ser Arthur Dayne walked over to the shaded area where the makeshift kitchen and eating area was set up. The people who couldn't dig or handle the hard-physical labor were making food for lunch, handing out water to those who needed it along with tending to any injuries or fatigue. A young boy handed them some water which they graciously accepted.

"Things are going really well. If we keep up this kind of effort then I think we can get the canal to the city much faster." Will said and Arthur agreed.

"It's quite remarkable on what you've been able to do here." Arthur replied, drinking his cup of water in a few gulps.

"On what we've done here." He replied as the two took a few more moments before rejoining the work.

At midday, everyone took a break for lunch and to rest a bit. They ate food, drank plenty of water and relaxed underneath the canopy's set up or the birchwood trees. Will sat against a rock and finished his bowl of soup and bread before taking a sip of water and relaxing a bit. He looked around and smiled at the scene he saw around him. Edric and Gendry were sitting with Iolaus, Atalanta and Tydeus as they enjoyed some nice conversation while Amphiaraus helped pass out some extra food to those who wanted it. Autolycus had gathered some people for some dice games and harmless bets, while Hercules was once again fending on advancements from Oberyn Martell. Everyone else was happy and even though the work was hard they were in good spirits.

Will leaned his head back and let himself enjoy the heat from the sun and gentle freeze from the nearby ocean when he heard some footsteps and saw Thoros walk over. "Do you have a moment, your grace?"

"Of course, Thoros but I can wager a guess that this has to do with my return and Lady Kinvara?" He suggested and Thoros nodded. "I'd prefer to do that in private. We'll talk tonight if that is ok."

"Of course, your grace." Thoros nodded and left to rejoin Lord Dondarrion.

Line Break xxxxx

After a nice break, the work continued for several more hours and when it was nearing the evening the days work was done. People got onto carriages and carts and were taken back to the city to rest. Will washed up and ate a nice meal before he returned to his room where Cedric checked the prince's health with Missandei's assistance. He was feeling fine and Cedric didn't find anything out of the ordinary so they spent more of that time checking on Durran.

The little dragon was out on the table as Will fed him some roasted fish. Since the dragon was little he had to cut the pieces small enough for him to eat but the dragon was happy and ate his fill. Orys watched everything from his perch in the prince's room as per usual and it was kind of amusing. Orys looked after Durran like a mother would a baby but soon enough the roles would be reversed and Durran could easily eat Orys if they weren't careful.

"Durran appears to in good spirits." Cedric said, writing down his notes on the dragon in a personal notebook. Missandei held out her hand and the dragon slowly walked over and nuzzled against her.

"It looks like he's grown very fond of you, Missandei. Dragons are very smart." Will remarked and she smiled.

"Well, I'll do everything I can to help you raise him." She promised when they heard some knocking on the door.

Ser Arthur walked over to see who it was and an Unsullied guard informed him of the guests. "It's Thoros of Myr and Lady Kinvara, your grace."

"Send them in."

Arthur nodded and in walked Thoros of Myr and Lady Kinvara. "Your grace."

"My lord." Lady Kinvara bowed her head and Thoros bowed as well. "Would be able to speak in private, your grace?"

"Anything you can say to me you can say in front of Cedric, Arthur, and Missandei. They have my full trust." William told her. "I imagine you must have questions so I'll answer them as best as I can."

"What did you see, your grace? What happened?" Thoros asked.

"I didn't see a realm of fire or a god speak to me if that's what you're asking." He answered, gesturing for them to sit at the table so they could speak. "I don't think anything I saw makes sense to anyone who wasn't there. Glimpses of my past and words I think I needed to hear from my mother of all people but I don't think I spoke to the Lord of Light as you might think."

"You may not have spoken to him but he brought you back for a reason, my lord. You are the Prince that was Promised. Of that much I am certain." Lady Kinvara told him. "My path was once obscure but now it is clear. I shall assist you in any way I can on your journey."

"My lady, it would be arrogant of me to think that nothing you did helped bring me back. I am grateful for what you've done in waking me from my sleep and assisting me as you did before in taking the city but I don't believe I am your prophesized hero. I'm just me." Will replied.

"Still, you doubt your role in this world but worry not, your grace. Your doubt is misplaced. You are reborn by fire to remake the world. You have freed slaves from their shackles and kill the masters with but one city standing in your way of claiming Slaver's Bay but it will not end there. I have seen it. From the slums of Volantis to the edge of the continent, I have seen the Conqueror change the world and when you return to your country…the Lord of Light and his disciples shall help you however we can." Kinvara promised.

"Your grace…I understand that this is a trying time for you but don't worry. I don't think anyone else in your position would have survived and be given a new companion." Thoros pointed to the dragon.

"Dragons are fire made flesh, a gift from the Lord of Light but you've heard all this before I'm sure. From your lessons with your master, whispers on the street or from Thoros himself. Your dragon will cleanse the non-believers, burning their sins and flesh away to be purified." Kinvara stated pointing to the dragon who actually backed away from her either out of fear or instinct. Hearing all of that is where Will had to draw the line.

"I'm sorry, my lady but I won't be burning anyone and should you or any of your followers do so in my name then I will take offense. Thoros knows this too well but I am open to my followers and friends claiming whatever faith they hold onto. I have men of the Old Gods, the Seven and even faiths to the far west and east of Essos and Westeros but I have never persecuted or shamed them for the ones they call their gods. I have never interfered or prevented you from praying for who you worship or any others that join but one thing I will not tolerate is deaths or sacrifices being made in my name for the Lord of Light. Worship however you wish but death is off the table." Will told her.

"Your grace, the will of the Lord of Light follows the just and the Prince that was Promised. Any and all sacrifices made shall ensure your survival and victory in the great war." Kinvara explained. "And do not worry. Death by fire is the purest of deaths."

"Little comfort it gave to the victims like my grandfather Rickard Stark who the Mad King burned alive." Will stated with a tone of disgust at the idea. Thoros, Cedric, Arthur, and Missandei could see that the prince was not at all open to whatever Kinvara would say and she saw that now. "If you truly believe that you are here to help me, that you are truly meant to guide me to whatever your lord has in store for me then it will be done my way. No sacrificing people to fire in my name. Do you understand?"

"Everyone is what they are and where they are for a reason. Terrible things happen for a reason but if this is your command then I shall follow. You are the Prince that was Promised and the followers of the Lord of Light are here to serve you." Lady Kinvara bowed her head before standing up. "Should you require anything of me then all you must do is ask."

She then walked out of the room and Thoros meant to follow her. "Thoros, linger a moment." Will said and he nodded. The second she was out of the room, Thoros sat back down.

"Yes, your grace?"

"Thoros, we've spent a lot of time together and I have come to view you as a true friend. You've fought by my side since the Greyjoy Rebellion and have been here since the Summer Isles. Do you think…any of this is actually true?" He asked, wanting a complete and honest answer.

Thoros took a moment to think over how he should answer but knew the prince long enough to know he didn't need to hear an answer that made him feel better. He just needed to hear the truth. "Honestly, your grace…before all of this I'll have said no. I may be a follower of the Lord of Light but I don't think I truly ever believed the words I said. I was just the drunk swordsman who said them. You know…the high priest sent me to Westeros to try and turn your father to the Lord of Light." Thoros admitted.

"It's safe to say you didn't succeed." Cedric pointed out and Thoros nodded.

"I don't think it was ever going to happen. The only reason Robert kept me around was because I was a fun drunk. Eventually I found my way but for the longest time I just regarded everything the priests said were words with no meaning. Until I met you." Thoros said to Will. "A young prince who was willing to put his life on the line for his kingdom at a young age with a heart as good as yours…well, that was as close to a miracle if I've ever seen one."

"Thank you…I think." He replied.

"I've had the pleasure to witness you growing up, taking more responsibility and endeavors that anyone else wouldn't care to do. The travel to the Summer Isles where you face a man twice you size in unarmed combat and won and then you travel to Essos and the day you started your campaign in Astapor. And what we saw the night you awoke…it is something that I believe all the priests and priestess I know would take as a sign." Thoros told him.

"Thank you, Thoros." Will replied and Thoros got up to leave but stopped to say one more thing.

"But there is one thing I know for certain, your grace. I didn't join your adventure because I thought you were Azor Ahai…I joined because I believed in William Baratheon and nothing has changed. I imagine the same is true for everyone else who has been here by your side this long. This is only a new chapter in your life and it can change everything or change nothing but I believe you are often fond of saying that this path is yours to walk and make your own." Thoros said and Will smiled.

"Thank you, Thoros. For everything."

"Of course, your grace. And I swear I'll keep an eye on Lady Kinvara." Thoros promised. "I know I'm a sworn priest of the Lord of Light but I am also here for William Baratheon."

Thoros walked out of the room and everything that had transpired gave Will a lot to think about. He got up and walked out to the balcony to look out at the city and the night sky with the moon shining down on everyone.

"Thoros does have a point, your grace." Arthur said to him. "This can mean everything to you or it can mean nothing. It only matters if you want it to. The question is do you believe that Lady Kinvara might be right?"

"I don't know and I don't think I'm meant to know." He replied.

"Well, your grace…you've liberated Astapor and Yunkai, freed hundreds of thousands of former slaves, broke a Dothraki horde, defeated the Golden Company in combat and have a dragon. You don't need to be proclaimed as a prophesied hero because I believe you already are. And my life and the many others are better for it." Missandei told him making Cedric, Arthur, and Will smile.

"She's right. If anything, being proclaimed a god's champion now doesn't diminish what you've done before or what you will do in the future but you don't have to do it alone." Cedric promised.

"Besides, William the Conqueror does sound better than Azor Ahai." Arthur said when he, Cedric, and Missandei noticed something.

Will looked out at the city when Orys flew over and landed next to him. That's when he felt a slight tug at his pants which is where he saw Durran climbing up his leg. He picked up the dragon and placed him down next to Orys and smiled.

Was he a prophesized hero for the Lord of Light? Was he the Song of Ice and Fire? Was all of this just a hoax and just a coincidence? William had no idea but he knew only three things for certain. One, he was back on his feet and he would make sure he stayed that way. Two, Durran was his dragon and he would care for him. And three…his job wasn't finished.

The old chapter of his life was over. Now began the new one. And the world would know what he is capable of.

End of Chapter 9

1). Gendry's axe-hammer head is the same as the head for Thor's Stormbreaker Axe in the MCU and Edric's trident is the same as Aquaman's five pronged trident in the DCEU.

Hey everyone, I hoped you liked the chapter. I know it may seem short but I promise that this was really just the calm before the storm. Things are heating up and next chapter is when things get really intense. A super exciting and long chapter. More training, some possible romance, and an attack on Meereen that shows the Wise Masters just how dangerous William is and how crafty he can be. But it doesn't stop there. There are two Triarchs in Volantis who need arrows in their hearts and while revenge might seem a little petty, William is ok with making an exception.

Next chapter, the journey to Meereen and a battle like no other. William sees just how evil the Masters can be so he is ready to end their reign and make them nothing more than a distant memory. Until next time.

Next updates: Next updates are Mandalorian Maverick and Spectacular Spider-man for October along with another Multiverse chapter. It'll be a Happy Halloween indeed.

William Baratheon: Son of Robert Baratheon and Lynna Stark, Prince of the Seven Kingdoms, the Blue Wolf, Slayer of the Iron Born, The Wolf of Storms, Breaker of Chains, Wolf of Justice, Stag of Righteousness, William the Conqueror, Khal of Tonitrua (Thunder)

Appearance: Young Stephen Amell

Birthdate: 279AC: 16 years old

Regular Clothing/appearance: Boots, long black or grey trousers, light white tunic/shirt, dark blue/black leather jacket with hood and facemask. Gloves. Vambraces with hidden blades, Valyrian daggers holstered in boots, and Storm's Wrath slung over his left hip

Armor:

Steel plated combat gloves

Steel plated vambraces/forearm guards with Valyrian steel forearm spikes and attached hidden blades.

Light metal leg greaves

Iron plated Samurai Dō (Chest armor) colored black with flecks of dark blue and white with sigil of House Baratheon and Stark. Attached leather shoulder pauldrons with light metal covering.

Weapons:

Black/Blue Goldenheart tree Composite Recurve Bow and Arrows usually kept in saddle holster

Small throwing knives looped in belt

Valyrian Steel stiletto dagger & Valyrian Steel Dragonbone dagger holstered in boots

Valyrian steel bastard sword Storm's Wrath holstered around left hip

Valyrian steel bastard sword Wolf's Fang holstered over left shoulder or in saddle holster when riding

Hidden blades taken from assassin and secured on forearm bracers

Pouch of small smoke or gas bombs

Swan Ships: The Jackdaw, The Aquilla, The Black Pearl, The Flying Dutchman

Notable Talents: Expert archer/trained in the Summer isles speed archery, knife thrower with expert aim and marksmanship. Ambidextrous and trained in sword combat by Ser Arthur Dayne and Ser Barristan Selmy. Close combat training by Hundred Eyes. Agile and quick moving, self-trained in parkour, Free running, and urban exploration. Smart and quick thinking on the battlefield. Knowledge of battle tactics, poison, wildlife, history, politics, and economics. Fluent in Low Valyrian, High Valyrian, Summer Tongue, and Dothraki.

Personality: Smart, attentive, wise, honorable up to a point, caring, generous, humble and cares about others. Hates backstabbers, deceivers, people who violate his trust or think they are superior to others. Doesn't like to be treated like a child or an idiot. Unrelenting against his enemies or those who harm innocents or his family. Prone to carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders or self-doubt in certain situations.

Army: 11,000 Unsullied soldiers, 3,000 Dothraki Calvary

Allies:

Cedric Angar: personal tutor and once trained to be Maester, trusted friend

Ser Arthur Dayne: Sworn Sword, protector, and trainer

The Stark Family of Winterfell: Family

Robert Baratheon: Father

Stannis Baratheon: Uncle and Lord Paramount of the Stormlands

Ser Davos Seaworth: advisor of Stannis Baratheon and trusted friend

Ser Barristan Selmy: Commander of the Kingsguard, sworn to protect him

Hundred Eyes: Kung Fu trainer and friend

Gendry: squire, friend, and younger half-brother-age 13

Edric: friend and younger half-brother-age 12

Hercules: Leader of band of mercenaries, incredible strength, and skilled fighter

Autolycus: Second in Command, expert knife thrower, thief, and spy

Amphiaraus: Expert spear fighter, supposed seer and prophet

Tydeus: Feral warrior, relentless and highly dangerous in combat

Atalanta: Excellent combatant, tracker, and Amazon Archer

Iolaus: Persuasive, excellent negotiator, storyteller, and orator

Joshamee Mr. Gibbs: Commodore and captain of the Prince's Swan Ships, expert sailor and naval combat operator

Adewale: Second in command of the Prince's Swan Ships, expert sailor and naval combat operator

Orys: Golden Crown Eagle

Missandei: Personal handmaiden, translator, advisor, confidante, and friend.

Grey Worm: Unsullied soldier and commander of Unsullied Legion

Roach: Personal horse, fast, brave, a bit of a jester

Durran: Blue scaled dragon

Disclaimer: I don't own Game of Thrones or any mentioned properties, all rights belong to their respective owners. I'm just a big fan.