DISCLAIMER: I DO NOT OWN GAME OF THRONES THEY BELONG TO THEIR RESPECTIVE OWNERS
a/n: Ok this one took me a while to write first off because I had to find the muse to do so. And second I had to figure out an alternate way for Bran to have his accident. Though that won't be in this chapter. So it was nerve wracking. I also fixed Myrcella's age I had to look it up and repost this chapter.
WARRIORS OF WINTERFELL
Chapter 5: The King's Obsession with Dead Women
It was not till two days later that Lord Eddard Stark allowed King Robert into the Crypts. The Crypts themselves were still a bit moist from the recent break in the pipes, or so they say. But the winds from the outside and the opened doorways allows the air to flow into the crypts. This will help it to dry out, but it will also make them even colder then they are normally.
Now the real reason it was moist was because Eddard Stark wanted to fool Robert Baratheon into thinking that the Crypts really were flooded. To do this he had several men under the guidance of Tyrion Lannister to close all the doors and leave only the door that leads to the hot springs open.
The hot springs under Winterfell had several doors carved into it. That way people can have access from many sides. Though this is not the only one to heat the castle and the town surrounding it. It was the only one of two used for the people to bathe in.
The steam from both springs had poured into the crypts making them moist and wet. Thankfully the Starks were smart enough to make their memorials waterproof in case the pipes really did break.
Then he had Tyrion on the second day close the spring doors, and open the doors to the outside cooling the air in the crypts. This returns the crypts to its true temperature and keep the moisture inside.
It was only when Tyrion gave the all clear did Eddard Stark allow King Robert into the Crypts.
The stairway was icy which was part of the plan and thankfully specially made stairs allows one to enter without falling. The steps were rough instead of smooth and hand rails allows one to hold onto the sides to prevent slipping.
Once inside they quickly made their way towards the memorial of Lyanna Stark. She was after all Eddard's sister and Robert's betrothed before she was taken by Rheagar Targaryen.
Or so everyone else thought.
Originally Lyanna's statue had many things from House Targaryen. This included her wedding cloak that she had gotten from Rheagar on their wedding day. Lord Stark gotten it after taking Lyanna's body from the Tower of Joy. Much to the chargin of Arthur Dayne the man who was protecting his sister.
Now Arthur and Eddard had an agreement both he and the other guards never really killed each other.
Not at all.
In fact the three guards Gerold Hightower, Arthur Dayne, and Oswell Whent saw Eddard coming. They quickly drew their swords but Eddard was smart enough to hold the letter he had gotten from the queen in Dragonstone. Knelting in front of them he presented the letter to the Kingsguard. After reading the letter it was then that Eddard was allowed to see Lyanna one final time before she presented Ageon Targaryen. But Eddard told his sister that it would be dangerous. She made him promise her to protect her son now and forever.
When he returned the guards stood waiting. It was here that Eddard presented the new prince to them. After seeing their new king for the first time the three Kingsguard knelt to the baby and Eddard put his hand on the three men's heads along with his Northmen.
He made them promise to keep silent about the birth of their future king. He would be taking them to the North with him to protect them from Robert Baratheon. Lyanna was his sister and he cherished family more then Robert after hearing what he did to King's Landing.
The three knights wanted to stay with them, but Eddard reminded them that they would be fugitives if they stayed. However they can be of some use to the North.
It was the gifts that they gave to Eddard that he after he had left for the North that he had removed from the statue before him. Making Lyanna look plain and ordinary.
"She should be on a hill overlooking the sea not buried here," Robert said to Lord Stark.
"Lyanna is my sister and a woman of the North. She worshiped the Old Gods. She asked for this, it was her final wish and I can't go against her wishes," Lord Stark said to King Robert.
"Her final wish you say?" King Robert said.
"Yes, she wanted to be with our father and brother," Lord Stark replied.
"You know I loved her right Ned?" he said to him.
"Yes, I know you do and if you were married I would have honored the Baratheon way of death. But she was not married to you and so she was still a Stark." Lord Stark replied.
The King sighed as he saw her then he turned to Lord Stark, "Why did you refuse my offer Ned?" he asked.
"Because Starks do not belong in the south. We are people of the North and from what you had seen we don't do well in the south. I fear if I went south things would have ended badly for both of us," Lord Stark replied.
"I understand that Ned but I really need you there," King Robert said to him.
"You don't need me there. You need me to keep your whores coming and your wine flowing. Robert you can't go on like this! You are a King not some drunken sellsword! You need to be there for your people. The realm needs you to be strong and here you are wasting your time being drunk. What about the debt you owe the Iron Bank? I heard all about it from Petyr Belish a while ago. Robert you are pulling this kingdom into ruin! You need to pull yourself together if not for the Realm then for Lyanna." he said to his friend hoping to reach him.
"I can't! I am stuck with vipers at my feet all the time! I can't let her go Ned I love her too much to forget," Robert said his voice getting louder.
"Yes you can with the wife you have now! What about your children?" Lord Stark said.
"Fuck that Lannister Bitch! Fuck her father, brother and those whelps I call children! Joffrey is a spoiled little cunt who sucks his mothers tits more then he wants to fight. Tommen is a little pussy and Myrcella? She is just a girl so why should I bother with them?" King Robert said.
Lord Stark thanked the Old Gods that Robert could not see the fury on his face. He willed himself to breath and to find his center like how he often does at the Heart Tree.
"Though true Joffrey is a spoiled brat Tommen however shows promise if you let him," Lord Stark replied.
"Promise? Oh you mean what happened two days ago in the courtyard? Alright fine the boy has some potential but his mother refuses to let him train." King Robert replied.
"Then train him in secret so that way no one can know," Lord Stark replied.
"Really? The boy can't hold a bow much less a sword," King Robert replied.
"Then teach him how Robert! Be there for him. Show him what it means to be a man! The boy wants to do so, but he can't. Not with the Queen constantly hovering over him. You need to teach him away from his mother if he is to be a proper son," Lord Stark replied.
"How can you keep that bastard with you? The one thing that stains your marriage and shames your name? Why is that Ned?" Robert replied changing the subject.
"I was asked by the boy's dying mother to take care of him that's what. When the raven came that I had a son from the whore whom I've fucked out of drunkeness and stupidity you expect me to leave him to die? I don't think so." Lord Stark replied.
"You Northerners are a strange lot. If he was my bastard I would have left him to die out in the streets of Flea Bottom," King Robert said.
"A shame he would be on Your marriage but not to mine. Catelyn loves Jon and she understands that the North thinks differently to how you Southerners think," Lord Stark replied.
"So why did you keep the bastard?" King Robert asked.
"As I said we here in the North cherish our bastards. They may not inherit lands unless legitimized by the King, but he can still be a soldier and a brother to any true born son," Lord Stark replied.
"I still say they are a disease," King Robert said.
"Is that why you glare hateful thoughts to your wife?" Lord Stark said noticing that Robert was staring hatefully at his wife since he arrived.
"That is why I force my daughter and my son to wear dyes in their hair and glass in their eyes," said King Robert.
Now this is interesting, Lord Stark thought as he heard this.
"Now which son wears the dyes my king? I am just curious as to why you would force them to do so?" asked Lord Stark.
"Myrcella and Tommen, I made them dye their hair and put colored glass sap in their eyes to make them look like their mother. That way I won't be reminded of the fact that I have a bitch from House Lannister instead of my Lyanna from the North." King Robert said.
"Well I should say that it is an interesting fact Your Grace, but I should remind you that doing that makes people question their lineage," Lord Stark said.
"I don't fucken care! That place can go to hell as far as I am concerned," King Robert said as he pulled something out of his pocket.
It was a feather and placed it in the hand of the statue. The statue did not move and the dripping water in the back ground a sure sign that Tyrion had done a wonderful job of insuring that this place seemed like it leaked.
"As I said she should be buried on a hill with the sun and the clouds above her," King Robert said.
"And as I said she is my sister and this is where she belongs," Lord Stark replied more firmly.
"You Starks and your traditions," King Robert said to him.
"We Starks honor our traditions my King," Lord Stark replied.
"But still you have never accepted my request to be my Hand," King Robert replied.
"Of course not sire as I said I am facing a difficult battle ahead with the Wildlings up north and winter approaching. Remember the winters here are harsher then they are in King's Landing," Lord Stark replied.
The King sighed knowing that he won't get anything out of his friend.
"Then what about a marriage proposal?" he asked.
"Oh and whom would you suggest?" asked Lord Stark.
"Your oldest girl Sansa have her marry Joffrey that way our houses will be united." King Robert said.
"No, I don't want my eldest marrying that spoiled brat! No offense your majesty but Sansa will never abide by it," Lord Stark replied.
"Abide by it? You are her father you could order her to do it," said King Robert.
"I won't because that is not the way of the North. However instead of marrying Joffrey how about she marry Tommen? I think she would like that better," Lord Stark replied.
"Why my youngest? He has no claim to the Iron Throne? Your daughter could be queen Ned!" King Robert replied.
"She could be queen but she won't because I won't let her," Lord Stark replied.
"Come Ned see reason," said King Robert.
"No and this conversation is over," said Lord Stark as he walked away from the crypt.
King Robert stared at the statue for a bit more before departing also.
MEANWHILE
Brandon Stark had just exited from the entrance to the library. His lessons with Tyrion Lannister were very fun. He and the other children of the castle often times enjoy the lessons he gave, and he had been rewarded for his correct answers to his tests. He wanted to rush to his mother's solar to show her his new test scores, but with the King here and his queen always hovering. Brandon can't show off the strange education he has been getting compared to the south.
As he walked out accompanied by his friends and the younger Prince Tommen he had then noticed the Queen. She was walking through the courtyard as if she was on a mission. Looking around she seemed a bit lost. Bran quickly ran up to her and tapped her on the shoulder.
"Excuse me Your Grace but are you looking for someone?" he asked.
"Why yes sweetling I am, I'm Looking for my brother Ser Jaime have you seen him?" she asked.
"Oh," said Bran, "I saw him with Lord Tyrion in the library I can show you the way," Bran said.
"Thank you my sweet," she said and Bran showed her where the library is through its main entrance. When she entered she only saw a small library not like the one she was told would linger here.
Then Bran led her down towards a doorway which was intricately marked. The direwolf was shown in the carved door. As the door opened thanks to Bran. Cersei was again unimpressed with only a larger circular room. It was as large as the castle itself with a deep pit that went down. Walking towards the edge she looked down.
And to her shock seen just how deep the floors went. She could barely see the bottom at all just a tiny pin prick.
"Here we can take the elevator the bottom your grace," Bran said.
Cersei nodded dumbstruck as Bran led her to the wooden box that resembles that of the one used on the wall. Then pulling on a lever they began to descend slowly down. The queen was struck by how much books, scrolls and tomes that the library holds. She even read the different sections of the floors.
History
Arithmetic
Agriculture
Astronomy
Sea Faring
Mythology
Mysticism
Black Smithing
Geography
Geology
Biology
Every subject available was kept here and the queen could see that even in the pit. But she can see that the layers of each subject goes deeper back then what you can see. Hallways and doors are opened and people are coming in and out of the halls. The library was huge.
"Sweetling does Old Town know of this place?" the queen asked.
"Yes, in fact all the Maesters come here to study if they want to advance in a field they want to specialize in," Bran asked.
She must give these Northerners credit for their ingenuity. She could see the many pipes that go around the library and the many vents that pour air into it. The air itself is warm so she can relax in here and not freeze. The deeper underground she went to more she got to see how Bran the Builder built his library.
There was just enough moisture here in the air to be comfortable, but dry enough so that the pages don't become brittle or moldy. She could see numerous people including the children working in the library dusting books and scrolls and ensuring that they remain healthy.
When she finally got to the bottom after about an hour which is a long time. She spotted Jaime with her younger brother Tyrion. Though Tyrion does not look like the richly dressed brother she once knew.
Instead Tyrion Lannister was dressed almost like a Maester. His clothes were rather plain but the design on it was different. It was similar to the Septa she saw earlier only the coloring was a lot darker. The only thing around his neck was a large key so she assumed that it is the main key for the library.
Her footsteps could be heard as she approached them. The silence in the library was deafening but she managed to make it to them in a few strides.
"Ser Jaime I was looking for you," she said interrupting their conversation.
Jaime Lannister turned to her, "What can I do for my dear sweet twin sister?" he asked.
"I wish to speak to you in private if I may," she said glaring at Tyrion.
"Of course your Majesty, dear brother do you know of any place in which we can speak in private?" he asked.
Tyrion getting the hint only rolled his eyes, "Try the study rooms on the top floor which are back the way you came," he said.
"Thanks," Jaime replied as he and the queen made their way towards one of the elevators. Bran glad his job was done went on another elevator to get back at the task at hand. This left Tyrion quiet happy to get back to his routine of cleaning up the Library. He had to love the way it was organized and maintained throughout the centuries. He even spotted a few Maesters among those who study here.
"Ah Maester Jorgan nice to see you enjoying your study on Draconology?" Tyrion asked.
"Yes you have the most intricate studies on Dragons from Valyria I am impressed," he said looking at the chart of a dragon.
"So what brings you to ask for my permission to go through our library other then dragons?" Tyrion asked him which is part of his job as chief librarian.
"I am here to study the biology of a species of plant that grows only here in the North. The Arctic Lycan as they call it is a plant whose sap has simular properties to the Eastern Opium plant. The only difference is that the Northerners use it for treating Asthma and lung infection. They also use the leaves for other ailments as well. I wanted to study the plant but the amount of information here about dragons has taken my attention away," he said rather excitedly.
"Ah yes the biology of dragons and how they reproduce is quite fascinating. We even have books on how the dragonlords tamed such a beast," said Tyrion.
"Oh really?" the Maester said.
"Yes, but how about you get back to where you are supposed to be since you only asked permission to use our library for that plant." Tyrion said pointing in the direction of Botany.
Smiling sheepishly the maester left to return to where he was at. Shaking his head Tyrion walked back to where he was checking his student's work.
MEANWHILE
The crypts were dark and damp. That is where the King was found as he walked down these musty hallways. Looking at the statues of dead Stark Lords and Ladies as they stood proud in the darkness.
It was also where the King found the Grand Septa cleaning the statue of Lady Lyanna Stark.
"Why are you here?" asked the King.
"Why are you here?" the Septa replied.
"I was only here to pay my respects and to see Lyanna again," said King Robert.
"And I am here to ensure that her statue does not grow any sort of mildew or mold," said the Septa.
"Oh, well why are you doing it and not the servants?" asked the King.
"The Servants are not allowed in here for this is hollowed ground."The Septa replied.
"Again my apologies," the King replied.
"Alcohol of any kind is also not allowed here," the Septa said pointing to the bottle in the King's hand.
Making his excuses the King left leaving the Septa to finish her duties to the underground workings.
MEANWHILE
The sound of creaking could be heard as Bran looked up from his studies. Princess Myrcella stood there with a sheepish look on her face and a tome in her hand as well.
"I'm sorry I thought this wasn't taken," she said.
Bran the gentlemen he was stood up, "You're Majesty I had no idea, Come sit with me I was just working on what I learned today at lessons." he said and Myrcella gladly allowed herself to sit.
She opened the tome and started to read while Bran himself sat back down. Myrcella looked over to see what he was reading.
"Direwolves?" she asked looking at the title.
"Yes, Summer is a direwolf pup and as a sigil of House Stark. So I thought I'd do my paper on direwolves," Bran said while taking down a few notes.
"I personally am obsessed with stories about the first men. In King's Landing you don't see much about them or about Valyria and so I found this book about the history of the first men. It was actually kind of interesting to read and wanted to have some privacy in reading it." Myrcella replied.
"That is great I wanted the same thing if you don't mind," Bran said.
"Of course," said Myrcella.
They continued to read long into the hours till at last an announcement was made.
"Attention all patrons the library will be closing in five minutes. So please gather your belongings and make your way to the exit that you will be exiting." Tyrion's voice could be heard in the room.
"How does he do that?" asked Myrcella.
"The pipes, we found that they can carry sound up through the vents. So Lord Tyrion has something installed to allow him to speak into the pipes and his voice is carried up the vents by the air that is pumped into here." Bran said excitedly.
"That is so neat! I wish we had something like this in King's Landing." Myrcella replied.
When they both exited their room and started down the hall Bran suddenly stopped. Myrcella stopped also, "What is it?" she asked.
Bran put his finger to his lips and both of them leaned in to listen to the sounds that was coming from a room just adjacent to theirs. Both of them crept up towards the room and as they got closer the sounds grew louder and louder.
"That sounds like my mother?" Myrcella whispered to Bran.
Both the child and the teen crept closer to the door. When they leaned in they could hear the sounds of heavy panting and breathing on the other side. Myrcella put her hand to her mouth in alarm. Bran had a look of alarm too when they heard another voice.
Jaime Lannister's
Bran put his finger to his lips for the princess as they both crept into another room. This one was adjacent to the one they came out from. As they looked Bran was the first to notice the light from one of the vents. Both he and Myrcella climbed up on the wall with Myrcella using a chair for assistance. Bran just used the wall to climb and peeked in.
What they discovered horrified the both of them.
The Queen was shouting for joy as Jaime Lannister thrust deep into her. The image was shocking to say the least but when the two children backed away in fear when Bran slipped. They both knew they had to disappear before they are caught.
As they exited the door however their luck ran out. For out came the queen in her undignified manner and sir Jaime also looking just as distraught. When they encountered the two children it was the Queen who spoke first.
"Myrcella what are you doing here?" she asked the princess.
"I was asking Bran here about his direwolf and I was researching some of the stories found in the North. You don't find such stories back in King's Landing. What are you doing here mother you don't look like you were researching anything?" Myrcella asked playing innocent.
"I was speaking to Ser Jaime about a private matter," the Queen said.
"Alright mother but we better get going before Uncle Tyrion locks us in here," said Myrcella.
They all exited the Library through the entrance that Bran showed them. Just as they said it the doors were closed and locked leaving them looking on in wonder before heading in their separate directions. The first place Myrcella went to was Bran's room after wishing her mother and uncle a good night. Once in the room Bran quickly shut the door and turned to Myrcella.
"How long was this going on?" he asked.
"I have no idea! I swear it by the Gods. I have heard rumors all over King's Landing but this…." Myrcella said she was disgusted.
"You're mother and uncle," Bran said.
"Now I am ashamed to dye my hair gold." she said.
"What are you talking about?" Bran asked.
"My hair is not really gold it was bleached and dyed that way. Father does not want us to show our true color and so made myself and Tommen dye our hair. Mine is actually dark see," she said pulling a strand out from her head.
Bran looked closely at it and saw for himself that at the very root of her hair. It was dark enough to show Myrcella's true parentage. She then poked her eyes and soon something glassy fell out. This startled Bran when he saw it and saw that her eyes were in fact stormy blue. The glass she wore made them look green like her mother.
"Why are you showing me this?" he asked.
"Because I can trust you, and I can tell you now that my mother and uncle what they are doing is disgusting. The only one who does not dye or hide their features is Joffrey. If he is what I think he is now then that would explain everything," Myrcella said.
"What do you mean?" asked Bran.
"What I am about to tell you must not leave this…." at that there was a noise.
The door opened to the Grand Septa's tall form. She stood above them when she entered.
"Princess Myrcella I did not expect you to be here," she said.
"I was just thanking Bran for helping me with some of my studies. I have problems with my numbers and he was good at helping." she said
"You are most welcome my lady, but it is now time for bed," she said indicating the door.
Nodding her head Myrcella walked out gracefully like the lady she was. This left Bran alone as the Septa also gave a nod to him before leaving.
WINTERFELL CRYPTS
Robert Baratheon the first of his name stood once again in front of the statue of Lyanna Stark. The torches were lit and the sounds of water no longer bothering him. In his hand was a simple blue winter rose. A rose that grows only in the north and as he had always done night after night. He had come to this particular statue to pay his respects and his apologies for failing her.
"This obsession you have for a dead woman is not healthy my king," said a voice.
The king turned to find the Septa once again standing behind him. He did not even hear her come in to the crypts. Normally one can hear someone enter but either he has been distracted from his thoughts or she has a very quiet gait.
"What can I do for you Lady Septa?" the King asked.
"I was only here to do my duty to the dead and by making sure that the dead are not disturbed," she said.
"My apologies though I would not mind a change of heart to let me sit here in peace," he said wagging his eyebrows shamelessly.
"As much as it is tempting for most women I however have to decline your Grace. I have my duties and you have yours good night," with that the Septa continued her walk further into the crypt leaving the king alone.
King Robert watched her go. It was as if she vanished in the shadows of the crypt before he turned towards the statue once again. He stood there praying for her forgiveness to the seven.
And while he was praying he never saw the shadow that watched him.
THE LIBRARY OF WINTER
Several figures made their way towards the library. One of them was Lord Stark as he walked with the silence of the shadows. Next to him was his wife and followed by Rob. All three of them entered the library through the entrance in Lord Stark's Solar. The entrance doors had been unlocked using Lord Stark's key. When they entered the Lord of Winterfell quickly closed the doors. Then they once again entered the library and descended down the elevator towards the bottom. Once at the bottom they made their way towards Tyrion Lannister's office which was on the far side.
The door was a solid oak door that was open to allow them in. Already the Maester, the Master's of Arms, the official steward, the other heads of staff were waiting for them in the office. Chairs were made to allow them to sit and relax while the current host Lord Tyrion was there behind his desk. As soon as he saw the Starks he quickly moved to allow Lord Stark to sit.
When he sat down the others acknowledged his presence as the leader of this meeting.
"Alright, what can you report for me?" Lord Stark said.
"The King's men are pigs! They demand more food then we are allowed to give and make passes at my girls!" said the head of the Kitchens Fay Snow as she shown her outrage at the actions of the King's Men.
"I agree Lord Stark I wish I would show these dogs their place," said another this one the head maid Matilda Snow.
"Now you must remember that the King has the support of all the other kingdoms. Should we initiate war they will come to his aid save for Dorne." Lord Stark said.
"Don't tell me you're afraid father," Rob said.
"Your father is not afraid boy, he is smart. A true Lord of the North knows that to go against the other lords is treason. We can't afford that not now, not with the long knight coming!" Ser Rodrick replied.
"Ser Rodrick is right we need their support if we are to fight off the Night King. The Wall's magic is weakening even further and so we must be ready for when it comes down," Lord Stark said to the Head Maid.
"What about my girls?" said the Head Maid.
"Perhaps I have a solution to that?" said the Septa speaking up from her place on the side. "Maybe you can discreetly teach these men their place. If they touch you, touch them back but make it known that their advances is not wanted," she said
Both the Head Maid and the Kitchen Maid both smirked while they nodded.
"Alright anything else we should know before I get down to business?" he said.
"My Lord if I may," said Lord Tyrion as he leaned forward from his seat. "It has come to my attention that my sister the Queen has not been truly quiet in her meetings with my brother. In fact Princess Myrcella and young Brandon had an encounter when exiting the Library."
"That is not forgivable at all! How could the King allow such a thing!" said Catelyn clearly outraged.
Lord Stark raised his hand to silence his wife, "My wife is right what both of them are doing is both scandalous and unacceptable. I would talk to the king and see what he has to say. But first I have some information that may change your views on the children. Namely the Princess and the youngest Prince," Lord Stark said as he stood up.
"As we knew are have heard is that all three children are bastards. But Robert himself has told me that the Princess Myrcella and the Prince Tommen are in fact legitimate heirs. Both of them were born dark of hair and blue eyed like their father. The reason why their hair is gold is because Robert himself forced them to bleach it blonde. This way it hides the fact that these children are in fact his true heirs. Making Joffery the true bastard out of all three of them." as he said this the others in the room started to mutter to themselves.
"If that is true then Tommen is the heir," said Tyrion.
"Yes, but right now he is too weak to even take the throne. Perhaps you could persuade the King to let him stay?" asked Ser Rodrick.
"I could do that, but he still insists that I take my place in King's Landing as his hand." Lord Stark replied.
"You still refused father," Rob said to him. Lord Stark nodded in reply.
"Aye, I did refuse because I wanted to show him that I am not to be intimidated." Lord Stark replied.
"You must be careful Ned the King has a queen who is very convincing," Catelyn said to her husband.
"I know My Love, but we don't have to worry much about the queen. She won't be helping her husband even after what I learned about both Myrcella and Tommen." Lord Stark replied.
"Perhaps I can help My Lord," said Lord Tyrion as he sat up from where he was on the far right.
"How so Lord Tyrion?" Asked Lord Stark.
"His Grace the King is very stubborn about his love or obsession for Lyanna. He feels as if he had failed her. Perhaps we can do something for him that is just as precious." he said.
"And that is?" Lord Stark said.
"Remind him that Lyanna will always be with him and to help him move on. Maybe we can convince him to have my father back as Hand of the King. Maybe then we can have the realm repay its debt to Houses Lannister and Tyrell, and the Iron Bank," Lord Tyrion replied.
"That could work but what about what we learned about the Queen?" asked Robb.
"That we can't do much without raising suspicion. We will have to expose them first and foremost and to do that we will have to play it smart." Lord Stark replied before turning to the Septa.
"Septa perhaps it is time to bring out that magic mirror of yours. If we are to catch the Queen and her brother in the act and say….show it to Lord Tywin then he would be the one to force the King's hand." said Lord Stark.
"Are you sure my father would be convinced by the image of a magic mirror?" Lord Tyrion said.
"He would have to be if you ever saw the images in the mirror yourself Lord Tyrion. In fact the Septa herself has taken lifelike portraits of myself and my children in the past. She even showed me an image of Bran the Builder and the makings of the Wall. That is how the North remembers the Long Night. The mirror records the events of the world and it stores them. Perhaps I can ask the Septa if she can show you herself?" Lord Stark said.
"I have the smaller mirror here my Lord. So perhaps I can convince him to see for himself." The Septa said as she stood up. She then reached into her pocket and pulled out a small rectangular object. It was about the size of her hand and its reflective side was black. However it had a circle on the bottom while on the hard side it had the image of a raven. On the raven's head was a crystal that looks almost like a third eye. The Septa then pushed on the circle and the mirror came to life.
It glowed! And on the image was the sigil of House Stark. The Septa then swiped her finger across the area where it was written in strange symbols. There the image grew darker and numbers appeared. The Septa then pulled it away to put in a sequence of numbers. When she was through the image changed to reveal several smaller images around the Stark sigil. She then pressed one that looks strangely like a mini portrait.
It was there that Lord Tyrion saw for himself the many images that flowed in front of him.
"Pick one," the Septa said.
Lord Tyrion looked to Lord Stark who nodded his head. Then reached his stubby fingers out and tapped on an image.
There the image of a vast city where hundreds of dragons flew appeared.
"What is this?" he said.
"It is an image of Valyria taken nearly a year before the Doom. The mirror can record images as well as events, watch," she said and picked another image this one with a white triangle in the middle.
The image was once again that of Valyria until it suddenly came to life as dragons soared past. People walking around him and the towers were spectacular. The sounds that came from it was also incredible as hundreds of thousands of people marched across the city. Dragons of all shapes and sizes were flying across the sky. There was shops and inns everywhere and the slaves and slavers all littered the streets as well. The buildings were spectacular rising higher then anyone could have thought.
"By the Old Gods and the New!" he said his words caught in his mouth.
The image then ended its movement and Tyrion looked up at the Septa, "What sort of magic is this?" he asked.
"The Mirror can record events that had happened in the present and save them for eternity. So a thousand years from now if one of your descendants wanted an image of you they can find it on the mirror. So I think if we gave King Robert something from the mirror like say a portrait of Lyanna. Then he will appreciate the work done." the Septa said.
"I can do that!" Robb said excitedly as he stood behind Lord Tyrion.
"You son?" Lord Stark said.
"Yes, if you can give me the image from the mirror I can draw Aunt Lyanna for the King,"
LATER THAT NIGHT
It was well after the meeting and Ned Stark was making his way back to his chambers. When he saw someone make their way to the crypts. Sighing to himself he recognized the large image of King Robert. Turning towards the crypts he went to see for himself why the King was out without his guards.
When he entered the crypts he once again found King Robert in front of the statue of Lyanna Stark. He was kneeling as always his tear streaked face a sure sign of his defeat.
"I kept dreaming of it Ned," he said as he recognized Lord Stark's footsteps.
"I know my King," he said.
"I kept dreaming of killing the dragon who took her and then I dreamed of her blood in that vase of yours. The blood of Lyanna instead of the ash that you'd shown me. The song you sang in the old tongue the day we sacked King's Landing. I still dreamed it," King Robert said.
"Every soldier has nightmares of the battles they fought Your Grace," Lord Stark replied.
"What was that song you sang Ned? It was a strange song," King Robert replied.
"It was a funeral song Robert. It is sung by the people of the North to wish the dead a proper sending." Lord Stark replied.
The King huffed, "Those people did not deserve a proper sending Ned I don't know why you did that," King Robert replied.
"I did it because it was the right thing to do. In the North we respect the dead no matter if its an enemy or a friend. You should know that Robert," Lord Stark replied.
"Fine," Robert said before turning fully towards Lord Stark, "You really don't want to obey your king on this one don't you," meaning he wanted Lord Stark as his hand again.
"No my King, my place is here up in the North. Starks don't do well in the south that is for people like Tywin Lannister. He is a much better hand then I would ever be." Lord Stark replied.
The King sighed as he finally stood up from his crouched position. His wide girth made it difficult to stand but he managed to stand straight.
"Fine," the King said.
"Besides old friend before you leave I will have a present worthy of your time waiting for you," he said.
"Really? When will it be done?" the King said.
"It will be done right before you leave. It is a cherished gift so don't soil it." Lord Stark said before leaving.
The King just looked at the statue of his beloved in all her likeness. He is still amazed that someone was skilled enough to carve every detail of her face and her body. Her ashes are in their cartouche. As he stood up again he gave his beloved Lyanna one more look before moving away. He walked towards the entrance after Lord Stark.
"Ned hold up!" the King said catching up to Lord Stark.
Lord Stark stopped and turned towards him. His face was quiet as always but the King was breathing hard trying to catch his breath. "Why did you defy me?" he asked.
"What do you mean Your Grace?" Lord Stark asked.
"Why did you disobey a royal decree to be the Hand of the King? Most lords in fact most men would feel honored to have such an honor. But not you Ned why?" the King asked.
"As I said before Robert my place is here in the North. The Long Night is coming and with it a long and devastating winter ahead for my part of the realm. So for me to submit to coming down south would be a disaster waiting to happen." Lord Stark replied.
"I see, does this have to do with what happened to your father, sister and brother?" he asked eyes with understanding.
"Yes, it has everything to do with it," said Lord Stark.
"What is this I hear that you are marrying your youngest daughter to a son of Dorne? I had heard those rumors for some time." said King Robert.
"It was an agreement between myself and Doran Martell long before the end of the war. It was the only way to pay for passage into Dorne to bring Lyanna home." Lord Stark replied.
"I see, and you will honor this agreement I bet?" he said.
"Yes," was the reply.
"Well what can I offer to make you my hand Ned for I need someone I can trust down there." the King said.
"There is not much I can offer since in truth all you do is whore yourself around and probably have a thousand bastards. Look Robert there is nothing you can offer me that would change my mind. My people need me here. Your obsession with Lyanna has to stop. She is dead Robert and there is nothing that would bring her back." Lord Stark said.
"I know that Ned but I can't stop myself. I love her and I will always love her." King Robert said.
"I know you do and if you still love her you will let her go. She is gone and she would want you to be happy," Lord Stark replied.
The King sighed to himself, "You're right Ned, but every time I close my eyes I still see his face as I bashed my hammer into his skull." King Robert said.
"I know but Robert you need to remember that ghosts can't rule a kingdom only the living can. And you have that here with Cersei and your children," with that he walked away leaving the King to himself.
LORD STARK'S BED CHAMBERS
Catelyn was already waiting for him when he arrived. As soon as he got in he stepped into his bathing chambers to clean himself up. His wife was the first person to help him undress and then sooth his aching muscles.
"Just two more days My Love and they will be gone," Catelyn said.
Lord Stark could only close his eyes and sighed. The day was long and tiring and his body feels the aches of dealing with the royal court. Already he had caught the King in the crypts too many times to count. Robert was not a man that would normally be this obsessed with anything. But his sister's ghost seems to haunt him and Lord Stark will have to see if he can let the king give up on his obsession.
After that refreshing bath he and his wife settled into bed. She also told him of the Queen's irritation with the King in the crypts.
"It has been getting worse from what I understand Ned. Robert drinks himself into a stupor everytime and hunts when he pleases. The Queen is quiet upset by all this and she too has started to drink herself into a stupor to ease the pain," Catelyn told her husband.
Lord Stark sighed, "Robert will have to let go if he is to survive."
MEANWHILE ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE CASTLE
Princess Myrcella was just about to get into bed when there came a knocking sound from the window. Curious she made her way to the window and cautiously opened it. Bran hung on and waved to her.
"Bran!" she whispered and allowed the boy in. Quickly closing the window the Princess stood there stunned as the second youngest Stark male dusted himself off.
"Sorry but your door was guarded," he said quietly.
"I know, mother thinks that someone is going to kill me here," Myrcella said giggling to herself.
"Is she always this paranoid?" Bran asked her.
"Yes, ever since father started letting whores into his bedchambers she felt that everyone is an enemy. Well everyone except her, uncle Jaime and Joffrey. Myself and Tommen well we are mostly ignored or put under heavy guard. In this case we are put under heavy guard. Joffrey has the Kingsguard watching him. We just get the left overs just because he is the heir." Myrcella said.
"Joffrey is just a spoiled brat. I am glad that I hit him when I did," Bran said with his chest puffed out. Myrcella giggled as she remembered what Tommen told her.
"Have you visited Tommen Bran?" Myrcella asked him.
"Why just earlier this afternoon right before our episode in the library," Bran replied.
"I saw how much happier he is here. I just wish I could stay just a little bit longer but we have to go back the day after tomorrow." Myrcella said.
"Will Tommen go too?" asked Bran.
"Everyone is going back we can't stay in Winterfell anymore. Father has to rule the realm and he can only do that from the Iron Throne," Myrcella said.
"I understand, will I ever see you again?" Bran asked.
"Maybe," she said and Bran went back to the window.
"If I ever see you again hopefully I can find more books on the tales of the North," Bran said.
The eleven year old girl smiled, "I hope you can find some for me too," she said.
"By the way you look way better with dark hair," and with that he leaped out from the window.
Shocked and surprised Myrcella raced towards the window and looked down.
Only to find Bran gone.
TBC
a/n: Well what do you think? A little slow I know but at least it gives a few plot builders. So what do you think about Myrcella and Tommen having to dye their hair. Personally I like both of them they are not like that idiot Joffrey so why not make them the true born children of Robert. Next chapter we will be going back to Sansa and her group and the adventures they had while traveling the North.
Till next time and remember to please leave a review at the end and no FLAMES, BASHINGS OR LORE MONGERS PLEASE!