House Steambird of Westeros.
Hello everyone and welcome to the first narrative chapter of this one-shot series! This one will be a wholesome one depicting the daily life of our newest protagonistic lord Wesley Steambird and his family after the Greyjoy Rebellion. Without anything more to say. Enjoy!
Chronicle 4: birds, wolves, and dragons.
In the main tower of the 20 towers of the Inner Circle, right in the upmost floor of the place, a certain dark haired man of blue eyes and almost 30 namedays was waking up from it's deep sleep as the shining sunrays poured into his room. Looking to his left, the first thing he saw was the most beautiful winter rose he had ever seen. He had met her during his childhood, saw her grow and transform herself from being a bratty and energetic child into the strong woman she was now and fell in love with her for who she was, feeling fortunate of being with such unique woman that complimented him in many ways other women couldn't. In response, she herself had always gone out of her usual behavior for him, thinking that acting more like the ideal lady would win his love, only to realize later her stupidity and that he loved her just as she was. Both of them had their ups and downs and many times they were hit hard by their situational awareness making them believe their union would be impossible. Their last big challenge was when her father planned to betroth her to "someone very influenceable" and both believed that it was the end of their love life. She insisted on both of them running away, he refused for honor and loyalty and prepared for the heartbreaking moment he would have to let her go. In the end, it turns out that "the very influenceable" subject was HIM. Both their fathers were very aware of their relationship with the passing of time and decided to let them follow their heart as part of a promise done by her family towards his family. Never had they both been so grateful with their parents before that even a few emotional tears were shed. And now, they were finally living the life they had pictured: together through the pain, illness and hardships life can throw at them. And quite a journey it is! 10 years had happened since then and they're both still strong, treasuring every single one of these moments together.
Hearing the chirps coming from the birdcage set near the window of the balcony, Wesley knew he needed to get out of bed soon, and that would be difficult considering how his wife was very cozy grabbing his arm...
Wesley: - Lya, sun is up. You know what that means... -
His response was a groan from her and an increase in her grip...
Wesley: - Lya... you know how Hurricane gets when he misses the morning sunlight to fly outside with Typhoon. -
Lya (in a muffled voice by the pillows): - Then why did do you had to adopt these two birds instead of one that isn't an early riser? -
Wesley: - Lya, they were a gift from Yi, and a very unique one too. He did a lot of effort to keep them alive and in control during his whole trip to and from the Golden Empire, and I wasn't just going to reject it. Also, you said yourself that they were the perfect gift to symbolize our love story. -
Lyanna still grumbled a little but let go of Wesley's hand, who went towards the birdcage and let Hurricane and Typhoon to perch in his arms. The birds looked like white doves, however something very curious about them is that they only possessed one wing! Hurricane, who was the male, only had a left wing and a left eye, while Typhoon, the female, only had her right wing and her right eye. However, once Wesley opened the window and stepped into the balcony in his shirt and trousers only, both birds seemed to already know what to do: they both leaned on each other and suddenly took flight without any flaw. It was something magical to see, and Wesley admired it. He stood there watching the birds fly all around the city until Lyanna joined him dressed in her blue sleeping dress.
Lyanna: - It always impresses me that he managed to find the two partners of a Jian bird. The same bird of the story you love a lot. -
Wesley: - Hey, its your favorite story too! *gives her a kiss on the cheek* It reminds me of ours... -
Lyanna blushed and said: - True... but instead of another bird, you married a direwolf. -
Wesley: - A very beautiful and fierce direwolf to begin with... -
Lyanna grinned then said: - Awww, you flatter me honey. You know, maybe I can show you how female wolves like to reward their mates? -
She said the last part with a sultry tone that put Wesley sometimes crazy or sometimes embarrassed. But before he could answer, they heard little knocks coming from the door.
Wesley: - Well, I'm afraid we need to take care of the pups first. After all, today is a special day for them. -
The knocking became more insistent and Wesley went to answer it. Once he opened it, a small blur launched itself against him and with great force that made him stumble back into his bed. It was there that he saw that such blur had the dark raven hair of his along with his blue eyes, and a miniature version of her wife's face. It was his daughter Rosa Steambird of 4 namedays...
Rosa (hugging Wesley): - Morning daddy! -
Wesley smiled and replied to her young and active daughter: - Morning sweetie. Very excited for today? -
Rosa (smiles widely): - Yes! Today is cousin's Rhaenys 14 nameday! She gets her pet dragon today! -
Wesley smiled and looked at his wife: - Always interested on those flying lizards. Reminds me of somebody at a younger age... -
Lyanna: - Oh come on, Wes. Do I have to remind you about what you did in our trip to Valyria? -
Wesley said: - And here is where I shut up. -
They soon heard other footsteps coming fast towards the door and soon a young kid of 10 namedays appeared. He had the brown hair of his mother along her grey eyes but most of his facial assets were those of his father. He was Wesley's heir and firstborn child Jon Steambird.
Jon: - Apologies mother and father. Rosie woke up before me and Asha and managed to sneak her way up here... -
Wesley: - Relax Jon. She is still at that young age of mischief that you're mother was characteristic for... *receives a pillow on his head, courtesy of the mentioned* She is very excited about this day after all, remember? -
Jon: - Yeah, cousin Rhaenys Targaryen is going through the linking ceremony today. -
Wesley: "Sometimes it surprises me how calm he can be even if he has the same passion of his mother. A silent winged wolf indeed Ned..." - Alright everyone! That event will be at noon so remember what we discussed yesterday... and that goes specially for you Lyanna. -
The she-wolf sighed then said: - Today we act with southern manners which means no complains about dresses or etiquette. -
Wesley: - And you also get to keep Rosie in control this time. -
Lyanna: "Agggh. It had to be me this time?"
Wesley: - Alright, now that the agenda of today is settled, Jon please take Rosie with you and change your clothes for breakfast time. Your mother and I will meet you both down there in an hour. -
Jon: - Yes father, come on Rosie! If we get prepared earlier, we can see our cousins earlier! -
That argument won over the normally problematic child, who bolted towards her brother and soon left along with him, while Wesley closed the door behind them.
Wesley (sighs): - Ahhhh... the wonders and troubles of youth... -
Lyanna: - Did it had to be my turn to 'babysit' her? Today of all days? -
Wesley: - Hey, don't blame me, last time was your turn but you decided to 'trade' it with mine for a double one. -
Lyanna: - Aggggh... -
She then plopped down in the bed and Wesley scooted up to her and said: - Years may have passed, but you're still that wild and impulsive girl I met in the wolfswood that fateful day. -
Lyanna: - And you're still the lame and surprisingly stoic boy that was still struggling to talk with women. -
Wesley: - Every women but one... -
He then gave Lyanna a kiss in her lips, before whispering in her ear: - You know, how about I get that reward that you promised me a few moments ago? We still got a few minutes... -
He didn't had to ask for it twice...
1 hour and 10 minutes later...
The whole family was seated in the dais of the "Food tower", one of the twenty towers redesigned and refurbished to house the kitchens for the staff and people living and/or working in the Inner Ring and also used as a community kitchen for the commonfolk. Right now, they were having a healthy breakfast consisting of bacon, eggs, ham, and the family's favorite, pancakes with maple syrup! And with them, there were some people of interest too...
Wesley: - So, your highness, how did you and our beloved Queen of the North found today's breakfast? -
To everyone's surprise, Eddard "Ned" Stark, current King of the North, brother-in-law of Wesley and his family had come to witness the ceremony that Rhaenys Targaryen was about to go through as a gesture of goodwill and care for the Targaryen family. Right now, he had just finished taking the breakfast offered by his brother-in-law along his Queen wife Catelyn Stark, formerly Tully, his firstborn son and heir, Robb Stark of almost 11 namedays, his daughters Sansa Stark of 7 namedays, and Arya Stark of 5 namedays, his second son Bran Stark of 4 namedays and his newborn twins Rickon Stark and Walter Stark of just 3 months. The last one was named in honor of Wesley's late father by his grandfather Rickard Stark, using the nickname he used to name him when both of them were young children. There was also Theon Greyjoy, the youngest of Lord Balon Greyjoy's son and Ned Stark's ward.
Ned: - It will always amaze me how the simplest of courses can have the greatest of flavors. Give my compliments to your cooks Lord Steambird. -
Wesley: - They will be glad to receive them, your Grace. -
Catelyn: - So, Lord Steambird, mind telling me how are the preparations for the ceremony going? -
Wesley: - Of course your highness, once we finish breakfast, we will set off towards the Scaled Hills where Rhaeny's test will happen. After that, if God and his partners allows it to go without incidents, we will proceed towards the Eastern Shire where the celebration will take place. -
A girl with dark eyes, short dark hair, and 15 namedays asked: - Who will be allowed to witness the test, milord? -
That girl was Yara Greyjoy (or Asha if you prefer it), only daughter of Lord Balon Greyjoy. She and her brothers, Maron and Theon, were taken as a hostage after the end of the Greyjoy's Rebellion to ensure that the surviving Ironborn raiders would keep calm and be deterred from making any reprisal raids against the North and the South. Even if she was a hostage, both Wesley and Lyanna raised her as one of her own and that treatment was paying off; she considered the Steambird House as one of her own and had great respect for both her foster father and mother and loved deeply their trueborn children, as such Jon considered her as his big sister along little Rosa, even with the differences in ages, and she and Rhaenys were the best of friends. Some even say that these two form a great team for everything, even to get into trouble.
Wesley: - Some of the most influenceable people of the city along their firstborn sons only, their families will have to wait in the Shire. Fortunately, ours and that of the royal family is the exception. -
Yara: - Yes! I can't wait to see the scales of those creatures up close! -
Theon: - And let them burn down your ugliness too? Because that would be really helpful. -
Yara: - Maybe they wouldn't mind doing the same for you and then eating you once you're well roasted. -
Wesley: "Again those two clashing heads. Reminds me of when Valerie and I were young like them."
As if reading his thoughts, little Arya Stark soon asked: - Is auntie Valie gonna be there too? -
Out of everyone in the Stark family, little Arya Stark was showing signs of being a second Lyanna at her young age. As such, her favorite relatives were Aunt Lyanna and Aunt Valerie, much to the discomfort of Catelyn and Septa Mordane and the question she did was a legit one.
Ever since the end of Robert's Rebellion, Valerie has been requested by him to perform peacekeeping and security operations in the Southern Kingdoms with the Peregrine Falcons just like her father did before her. Valerie was not naïve, and she knew that was more of a selfish move by him to keep her close to try to gain her back, at the expense of her wife Cersei and House Lannister's loyalty. However, she couldn't refuse that request unless she risked making everyone think that her house was being ungrateful to the Baratheon's for their support in the Rebellion and their house needed every influence possible to make sure that peace endured in the realm.
Fortunately, she was very clever and knew how to use opportunities, so she accepted but soon put it into her terms that made Robert's plan backfire. She would establish the 'Peregrine Falcons' main headquarters in Dragonstone rather than in King's Landing, place that will also have an HQ center but will be in the command of a representative selected by Valerie herself. This basically meant that Valerie spent the least amount of time possible in King's Landing itself and, therefore, the least amount possible interacting with Robert, which she deemed necessary so that he could appreciate his new wife. If word is to be believed, it seemed that it wasn't working that well, considering the reports of how Robert was wasting money on prostitutes, feasts and other stuff that was forcing Valerie to attend King's Landing to give him some stern talking about it. Fortunately, last time she went there was to get official leave to attend the Targaryen's ceremony.
Wesley: - If the weather and the God allows it, she will arrive on time for the festival, little princess. And in her last letter, she is bringing special gifts to her favorite nieces and nephews! -
All the children: - Yay! -
Then a female guard approached Wesley and said: - My lord, a message from the minister to remind you that it is almost time to leave towards the meeting point. -
Wesley: "It is that late already? Damn." - Thank you, Captain Alice. *Turns towards Ned* Your Grace, our actions depend upon your decision. -
Ned said: - Tell the escorts to mount and get ready. Catelyn, please help the children finish their plates soon enough. We have a ceremony to attend. -
Wesley: - As you order your highness. -
Catelyn: - As you wish, my dear. -
Some time passed, and eventually everyone in the royal party was on their way towards the meeting point located near the Northern Gate of the outer wall. On their way there, many of the commonfolk took the chance to greet them and bow in front of them while also expressing their gratitude and loyalty towards their rulers for the effort they had done up until then to keep prosperity and stability to both the city and the North. Even if this filled them with pride and honor, the party was being slowed down by the amount of commonfolk that soon the escorts had to start to actively clear the way. Those were the famous "Blades" along the "Direwolf wardens", a personal bodyguard trained by Valiant Steambird and given to king Rickard as a gift for the hand of Lyanna. These group of bodyguards were double the numbers of the Blades (14 Blades, meaning that there are 28 Direwolf wardens) and as skilled and chivalrous as them. But most importantly, their armour and weapons were famously made of titanium, one of lesser quality than the one Wesley used for his armor and katana but cheaper and still as effective as his.
Fortunately, the more they were near the Northern Gate, the lesser people there was and so they regained speed. They soon went under the portcullis of the gate and went towards one of the small hills at the north-west were they soon found a camp from which the banner of the Targaryens was being waved proudly into the air. Soon enough, a very familiar man with two blades and in gold and white armor greeted them in the entrance of the camp alongside some guards and kneeled...
Ser Arthur Dayne: - King Stark, Lord Steambird. I'm honored to be the first to receive you all and to thank you, in the name of House Targaryen, for attending this special event. -
Ned: - The honor is ours, ser Arthur. This was more of a request from my children to assist considering they want to see a dragon from more up-close, you had more than reason enough to refuse and yet, you accepted into allowing our presence in this special day of your house. -
Arthur: - Because of the dangerous nature of this event, we were willing to refuse but then certain people convinced us to do otherwise. -
At this, a woman of long silver hair tied in a pony tail, red eyes, white skin and wearing an special set of armor that seemed to be made of... dragon scales? (the Skyrim female set of dragonscale armor) appeared alongside Arthur. In the center of the breastplate, there was a symbol printed on it: a white wyvern circling around a green 'Metal steambird', forming a loop around it. She also kneeled once she was in front of Ned.
Ned: "House Wyvern is also attending this?" - Lady Muriel, quite the surprise to see you here. -
Muriel: - There is no way in the Seven floors of Hell that I was going to miss the ceremony of my disciple, your Grace. -
House Wyvern is a northern house founded by Azure Wyvern, the daughter of the late Lord William Steambird and the Former Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen. Apparently, it turns out that both of them actually fell in genuine love and moved to the North to start a new life in a humble cottage in one of the many hills of the Barrowlands. However, fate had other plans in mind. The surviving dragons they brought from the South found that the Barrowlands were a nice place to live and reproduce and as such, they soon prospered. However, what truly impressed many was that Azure had an apparent connection with them since birth. When she turned 30, she was caught in a thunderstorm while exploring the mountains. It was a very strong thunderstorm and she ended up taking refuge in a cave where Syrax, her mother's old mount, was living in. The dragon had long since been living free of her rider, however, the moment Azure stepped inside, Syrax treated her as if she was one of her own progeny. She had also just laid a clutch of eggs that caught the attention of Azure. According to her own words: "It felt like I had just met my newborn brothers and sisters. In that moment, I knew I had to protect them and raise them along their mother." The aftermath of her adventure would lead to a chain of events that would culminate in Azure changing her last name from 'Steambird' to 'Wyvern', which in turn created House Wyvern. Such house is subordinated to house Steambird and proves to be the only house to have real "dragon tamers" in all of Westeros. In fact, the current head of their house, Lady Muriel Wyvern, was the "master tamer", the best of their kind. Ever since Rhaenys started to show what the tamers call "resonance" at 10 namedays, she has been under the tutelage of Muriel, learning how to "connect" with dragons, see like them and also how to be as strong as them (*cough*alsoteachhersomemagic*cough*). Muriel was proud of her, she had shown a great potential ever since the first lessons and progressed quite fast.
Muriel: "Seems that the old Targaryen talents weren't lost on them in the end. Too bad her father isn't here to witness this day."
Soon enough, the whole party entered the camp and dismounted. Then they walked towards one of the bigger tents and saw the current head of the survivng House Targaryen, Elia Martell. Time has been graceful with her, accentuating her dornish beauty complementing it with her now more confident and determined attitude to help the house which her son and daughter would keep alive once they were of age. Long gone was the shadow of the Mad King that had controlled her through fear, and she had the Steambirds and the North to thank for. Along with her was Aegon Targaryen, of 10 namedays, son of Rhaegar, but everyone calls him "Egg", and with a good reason too. He had inherited his father's skin tone, hair and face while he still had his mother's eyes and calm personality. He was wearing a black buttoned tunic that reached to his waist along with brown trousers. In some way, his paleness along his face made him look like an egg. He also carried a little special sword strapped into his leather belt called a "Gladius". Once Ned was near them along the rest, both nobles along the present staff kneeled respectfully.
Elia: - Your Grace, we are honored to have you today in this humble celebration for assisting to both the nameday of my daughter Rhaenys and her "graduation". -
Ned: - The honor goes to us for considering you had the right to refuse us. -
Elia: - Nonsense, that would be very ungrateful from our part after all the North did for us. -
Wesley: - As long as your house survives and strives to be better than before, that would be enough as payment. Now, where is our celebrity today? -
Muriel: - Making some last preparation before the big moment. This is a delicate ritual, my lord. -
Wesley: - Understood, we're willing to wait. -
With introductions and formalities aside, soon the whole party separated into different groups. Bran, Arya, Rosa and Sansa went with Arthur to hear stories about the Kingsguard and Rhaegar along Ser Barristan Selmy whom was along with his wife, Lady Ashara Dayne and their young son of 7 namedays, Ronald Selmy. Meanwhile, Jon, Robb, Theon, Yara, and Egg decided to take some sparring sessions between themselves under the watchful vigilance and tutelage of Oswell Whent along 2 Blades. The rest of the adults decide to get inside the tent to talk and get some refreshments. They all waited for a while until a heavy melody was heard. As soon as it was heard, everyone reunited near the entrance of the tent.
The melody was caused by a little procession of men and women wearing red and orange vibrant paintings on their skins along with grey tunics and robes. Some of them carried the characteristic red robes of the priests and priestess of R'hllor. To the surprise of many, a group of priest and priestess of the religion of the Lord of Light came to Praefecture City just for the sole purpose of serving their magic to the Targaryens, Starks and Steambirds. You will see, the same chain of events that created House Wyvern somehow brought back magic to the North, the same kind of ancient magic that was rumored that helped create the Wall which in turn meant that nowadays magic was back into the cultural identity of the North; unfortunately though, there were few people that had the talent to use it and of those, only very few were real masters of it. It is rumored that House Reed, Wyvern, Steambird, Stark and even the Targaryens are the only houses with magic still remaining in their veins apart from the rare commonfolk or noble out there. Needless to say, this attracted the Red priests like moths to a light and soon were allowed to basically teach anything about their beliefs and religion to anyone interested. However, rumors had started to leak out that their presence isn't simply because of the resurrection of magic in there; some of the servants overheard the priests saying something about a "long night".
But on this day, they were simply part of the procession as special visitors. Soon after them, came the celebrity: wearing dark leather armor along a black cloak with the Targaryen house symbol embroidered on it and carrying an special valyrian trident Wesley gifted her for her 10th nameday along a buckler that was also painted black and had the Targaryen insignia too. Rhaenys had changed a lot ever since the Sack of King's Landing: in her 13 namedays, she had a healthy, athletic body, thanks to the training she received with the Reeds and sometimes with Wesley; her brown skin had paled a little because of the years living in the North, but even with that it was very clear she was of dornish descent. The only thing that revealed she was a Targaryen were her purple eyes, given to her by her late father. She had the most complex paint patterns on her skin too. She was accompanied by the last of the former Kingsguards Ser Gerold Hightower, and both soon walked to the group and kneeled in front of Ned.
Rhaenys: - King Stark, I, Rhaenys Targaryen, am honored of having your presence and that of the royal family in this special event. -
Ned: - I'm glad to see you in good health princess Rhaenys. And even if we are aware of the importance of this event, I'm afraid to say that we don't know that much about what this event entails. -
Muriel: - Let me answer that for you, your grace. However, it will have to be done on the way to the hill, otherwise it will be late night once we return to the camp where the celebration will happen. -
So, everyone soon left the camp, with exception of the younger ones who stayed behind along the Queen, Elia and most of the staff whom prepared to go out towards the Eastern Shire.
Their destination was the Hill of Scales, the place where the dragons made their homenest. A once mild and easy to climb hill, it had been 'modified' by the caverns the dragons dug up to make their nests along with other effects of nature itself. However, it was still safe to climb as long as one didn't pass directly across the entrances of these caverns. Unfortunately, that's where the party needed to go. They left a group of guards in the entrance of one of the biggest ones which then reduced the group to Ned, Wesley, Arthur, Muriel, Jon, Robb, Theon, Yara, Egg, Oswald, two Direwolf guards called Bill and Ben, captain Alice and lastly, Rhaenys. Soon enough, they all travelled through the cavern, on guard in case of encountering one of the many troublesome dragonlings or worst, their mother. Fortunately, nothing of those dreadful encounters happened and the party managed to reach the exit of the cavern. It was at this point that Muriel said: - This is the moment where you must embark on your own Rhae. The way of a dragonrider focuses mostly on the link between a rider and its mount solely. -
Rhaenys: - I will try my best master. And... thank you for all the lessons you have shared on me. -
Egg: - Stay safe, haedar. And bring back the pride of our house. -
Jon: - Good luck cousin. Make sure to bring some scales for our little sibling, will ya? -
Robb: - Good luck lady Rhaenys, I... -
Rhaenys: - How many times do I got to tell you to not call me a lady? -
Robb: - Well, it's my obligation to do that as a prince! -
His father along Wesley just chuckled before Ned soon took his turn: - Rhaenys Targaryen. Today is an important day in your life: it is the day that you leave behind the innocent and curious childhood in order to enter the world of the nobles. I'm aware that part of it was filled with dread and fear because of the rebellion that took the lives of most of your Targaryen relatives, but now you should be proud. During the whole time you were raised here in the North alongside your brother, you learned the whole truth about the rebellion alongside the mistakes that your father did. You learned how to be yourself and today, we will see a new lady rise from the scared child that we took in those years ago. May God and His Brothers and Sisters help you in your challenge. -
Rhaenys *bowing*: - Your words fill me with pride and happiness, your Grace. I will endeavor myself to make both the North and my house proud. -
Wesley: - Good luck girl. And remember, this is the day which will determine the fate of your house: will the dragons finally be able to regain their flight or be forever grounded? It's all up to you. -
Rhaenys: - I understand, uncle Wes. -
The rest of the group soon went to gave her their blessings and then she ventured towards the exit...
Some hours later, at the Eastern Shire camp...
Elia was pacing around the royal tent nervously. Sunset had arrived and the party that went with Rhaenys to the Scaled Hills had yet to return. Even after knowing that what she was doing was something that may bring back House Targaryen's glory and power and an opening experience to what her "adulthood", as most of the intellectuals call it, would be she couldn't help but worry about both her daughter and son's safety. She was so focused on her pace, she didn't saw the Queen reach to her.
Catelyn: - If you continue like this, you may as well create a circle in the ground. -
Elia: - I'm sorry your Grace. But I can't help but be worried about my daughter, I know this is important to her but... -
Catelyn: - You never know if it's going to be enough. Am I wrong? -
Elia was a little surprised and said: - Yes. How did you manage to know? -
Catelyn: - I'm also a mother, Lady Martell. And pardon me if I offend you saying this, but I'm raising two daughters that are polar opposites from each other while you only had to deal with one. -
Elia found the sense in that phrase and said: - No offense taken your grace, and I can see what your point is. -
Catelyn: - Speaking of daughters, I have a question and it in someway is related to your daughter... -
Elia: - As long as it isn't intimate, I'm willing to answer it. -
Catelyn: - Ned has told me that as a child she was as vigorous, energetic and a handful like our youngest one Arya. But in the many instances I manage to meet her, she appears less wild than he had described her. Was my husband wrong about it? -
Elia: - Not in the slightest. She used to be kind of a problematic child even before the Rebellion. In fact, the "wild" Rhaenys he describes is just a calm version of her after the Rebellion. -
Catelyn: - Oh my, I feel sorry for you now. -
Elia: - Well, there's no need for that anymore. When she started her indoctrination at 8 namedays, she actually went calmly along with it. -
Catelyn: - Really? Just like that without protesting? -
Elia: - Not exactly, the first weeks she was full of complains and whining about it, just as you would expect from someone as carefree as her. Then one day, both Lord and Lady Steambird came to visit us alongside their son Jon, whom was 7 at the time, and a newborn Rosie. And what happened next, well... it showed her the big importance about the manners and customs among nobility. -
Catelyn: - Was it bad? -
Elia: - It had its ups and downs but it ended being the first maturing experience for both of them. Ever since, she had been very dedicated in her lessons. -
Catelyn: - Well, it still doesn't answer my question. -
Elia: - Pardon me for asking an insensitive question but, why would you like to know, your grace? -
Catelyn *sighs*: - It has to do a lot with my second daughter Arya. I think you had already heard how she acts? -
Elia: - Ah, yes! It seems everyone in the North has the same opinion about her attitude being similar to that of her aunt. -
Catelyn: - Which is what upsets me. I had been trying lately to make sure she attends her lessons with Septa Mordane but so far all I had been receiving is complains from her and her sister apart from catching her skipping the lessons by going with her brothers instead! -
Elia: - Ah, I see... *thoughts about it for a while then says* I may have a solution for that your grace. It may be that you need to compromise... -
Catelyn: - What do you mean? -
Elia: - By the way it sounds, it seems Arya is more interested to perform the activities of men rather than those "fitted" for a lady like her. You can use this as a bargaining resource to make sure she continues her education as a lady. -
Catelyn: - Wait, you're telling me to let her continue acting as a barbarian?! -
Elia: - Your grace, I'm aware that you were raised following the southern customs and traditions just like me, but it is important that you remember that this is the North. Everything is different here, including the supposed attitudes that men and women are supposed to follow. Praefectus city is a prime example of it, remember? -
Catelyn knew Elia wasn't wrong. In the many times she had visited Lord Steambird's power center, she had seen how it seemed that many roles were reversed, with women performing men's job and vice versa. It had unnerved her to no end but she couldn't deny that it made the commonfolk of the city happy and satisfied not to say that this allowed to basically double the economic and military power of the North. There were even a few times were Ned or other nobles had invited her to perform some of those "reserved" activities but she declined many times.
Catelyn: - I can't argue with that but... isn't it inappropriate for the daughter of a king? -
Elia: - The same could be said about my daughter Rhaenys, but that to be fair depends on whom you ask your grace. To some of the southerners? They may say that it is indeed. To the North? They will say that it is the real way to live now. It doesn't mean that Arya can't be both. -
Catelyn: - What do you mean? -
Elia: - Is simple, there is a phrase I heard from Lyanna once which I think it summarizes how I wanted Rhaenys to be raised: "ladies don't start fights, but they sure as hell can finish them." Southern manners don't solve everything nor does the northern ways so I thought, that maybe if she learns from both ways, she will have enough wisdom to know what to use and how to perform it. -
Catelyn: - So, your suggestion is that I let her know that she can enjoy the teachings of her brothers as long as she performs her duties as a lady? -
Elia: - You're correct your grace. And if you would like, I can tell you some advise about how to give her some "motivation" to go through them... -
So, both ladies talked for a long time about the best way to raise Arya before a horn was sounded from the hill. Then, Ser Gerold came running inside and said: - My ladies, the party has returned. -
After hearing that, both ladies soon walked out of the tent towards the entrance of the camp where a big group of the invited people, mostly nobles and some of their staff, waited patiently to see the return of their king along with the celebrity. Both ladies made their ways towards the front, followed closely by their bodyguards and the royal family and waited...
At last, they saw the party returning in high spirits towards them. This was a good signal, yet Rhaenys was nowhere to be seen. Once they reached the camp, everyone kneeled to the king before he commanded Elia to rise: - Lady Elia Martell, matriarch of House Targaryen, rise and come forward. -
She did as commanded, still feeling worried for her daughter when Ned addressed her: - It is with my great pleasure and joy to tell you, that your daughter Rhaenys Targaryen has successfully started her journey into adulthood along with the redemption and restoration of House Targaryen. -
Elia felt at ease but still asked: - And how is she, your grace? -
Ned: - I think that is a question only she can answer to you. -
He then pointed towards the back of the party, making everyone to step out of the way to reveal the girl. Her mother gasped: she was covered from head to toe with ashes and black spots that indicated that she had received fire at point-blank and wearing different clothes to those she departed with. However, rather than looking injured, she looked proud and showed no signs of pain nor shame. But it was what she was carrying among her arms that made everyone gasp: a beautiful silver-white scaled egg the size of her chest.
Rhaenys: - Mother, I bring you the token that will herald a new era to our house! -
Everyone cheered at the statement and the celebration started right at the sunset of that glorious day...
Some hours later...
The sun had left and night now covered the party with its dark mantle. Drink, food, games, dances and music were everywhere along with the laughs and smiles of many. Most of them were of young children and teenagers almost of the same age as Rhaenys and her group of friends, whom were all having some fun playing something they called "Capture the banner". The teams? Wolves and Theon vs dragons, steambirds and Yara.
Jon: - I got it, I got it! -
He started running for his dear life once he saw his cousin Robb coming straight towards him...
Robb: - Give it back here, you bird! -
He then lunged himself towards him only for Jon to dodge skillfully with a spin and leaving him behind.
Jon: - Sorry Robb! But no bird can be shot down by a wolf while it flies! -
Then karma came at him in the form of her cousin Arya who lunged herself at him. Caught off guard, Jon kissed the ground.
Jon: - Agh! Fu...dge! -
Arya (grabs the banner): - Mine now! -
She then tried to run but then Rosa grabbed her flag and tried to steal it, but Arya's grip didn't falter and soon both were involved in a tug war.
Arya: - Let it go Rosie! -
Rosa: - No, you let it go! -
Arya: - No you! -
Rosa: - No you! -
Arya: - You! -
Rosa: - You! -
Arya: - You! -
Rosa: - You! -
Arya: - You! -
Rosa: - Ok! -
Arya: - You.. waah! -
Rosa let go just as Arya made a big pull, the momentum being too much to counter that Arya fell backwards, letting go of the banner.
Rosa: - Mine now! - She then went towards it but then...
Arya: - No! - Arya grabbed one of her legs making Rosa fall down, inches away of grabbing the banner.
Rosa: - Let me go! -
Arya: - No! -
And both went into another tug war, unaware that Bran used the opportunity and took the banner. He then ran towards the 'base' of his team but then...
Yara: - Where do you think you're going? -
Yara came from behind and used her strength and height to hug and lift Bran from the ground, making him his hostage with the banner. Then...
Theon: - Pass the banner to me Bran! -
Theon came running from Yara's left and Bran soon compelled to do his command. He threw the banner as far as his childish arm could do (just a few feet in front of him) and saw Theon grab it quickly before Yara released him saying: - Get back here, you stupid squid! -
Theon: - Make me you octopus! -
He regretted saying that because Yara soon caught him and both started to brawl against each other, leaving the banner open for the taking. An opportunity that Sansa took and made a run for it. She soon discovered that she was being tailed by Egg.
Egg: - Rhae! Go from the front! -
Sansa then saw that Rhaenys was between her and victory and coming towards her in an effort for both her and Egg to sandwich her. This put her into a little panic and when she saw she was cornered, she ducked by instinct. This caught off guard Egg, who tripped over her small profile and collapsed right in front of his sister, making her fall down too. Sansa, however, was still ok and when she saw that both Targaryen's were down, she bolted towards her base and finally...
Sansa: - I got it! The wolves win! -
Eventually, everyone stopped playing around and went towards the royal tent to get refreshed. However, they received a pleasant surprise when they saw that a group of riders carrying a flag that had the silhouette of a peregrine falcon in front of a green shield with bronze borderlines that had the golden letters "P.F." written on each wing of the falcon. On the top of the shield, just above the falcon's head, the dark image of a compass could be seen. When Arya saw them, she bolted towards the tent followed closely by Rosa and Bran.
The three children: - Auntie Valie! -
In front of them, a woman with short dark brown hair, dark brown eyes, fair skin and wearing an ash dark armor. (She looks like Amaya from "The Dragon Prince" and uses Apollyon's For Honor armor) When she heard her name being called, she turned around to look at the kids and smiled.
Valerie: - What have we here? A little rebellious hatchling alongside her two troublesome wolf pups! - She then kneeled to allow the children to hug her which they did with joy.
Then the rest of their brothers and sisters joined them, and Valerie let go of the kids to greet them.
Valerie: - Well, well, well, look how much you have grown my dear cousin Jon. I bet you're making some girls swoon back at home? -
Jon blushed then said: - Aunt Valerie, it's a pleasure to see you again after so long. Also, I'm kind of young still to worry about that... -
Valerie laughed: - Ha! Just like your father when he was your age! If I didn't know you better, I would say you would had feelings for the other side! -
Jon: - AUNT! -
The rest of his cousins laughed at that statement. In the North, being gay was something acceptable in their society, another advantage over southern mentality. Even so, Jon had made clear some time ago during an "adventure" with Theon, Egg and Robb that he was straight as the Martell's lance in their sigil.
Valerie (facing at Robb): - Your grace, it's an honor to see you again. Look at how much you had changed! Any candidates for a betrothal in mind? -
Now it was time for Robb to blush and the rest to laugh at him.
Robb: - Unlike Jon, my father and mother are actually discussing about whether it should be a northern or southern bride. -
Valerie: - Ah, should I put my input of information then? I know a few houses out there whose ladies are open to a marriage with a nice northern prince like you. -
Robb: - Please spare me... -
Valerie laughed before moving to Sansa: - My goodness, dear Sansa! Look at how much you had changed since last time! You look like a beautiful winter rose now, just like your aunt Lyanna was near your age! -
Sansa blushed with some pride on her: - Thank you, my dear aunt. You are also quite good looking after this long. -
Valerie: - No need for good manners Sansa. Between family, we can be as blunt as we can wish. -
Sansa: - Unfortunately, I must be this way in order to become a proper lady. -
Valerie: - A southern lady perhaps, but we're in the North and here we aren't that strict. Just relax and be yourself, alright? -
She then went toward Rhaenys: - And here is the girl... sorry, the WOMAN of the celebration! You had grown quite well little Rhae! -
Rhaenys smiled and blushed: - Thanks aunt Valerie. I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for you. -
Valerie smiled fondly: - I know that, and I'll gladly take the same risk again whenever the need arises. Your mother is lucky to have such a great daughter like you. -
Both then hugged being happy, before Valerie moved towards Aegon: - And you! You certainly look very similar to your late father. He would be very proud of a handsome and chivalrous man like you, Egg. -
Aegon smiled: - Thanks aunt Valerie, but I must confess that it was thanks to you and your brother that made me into what I am today. I swear that when my time comes, I will help restore my house into its former glory, this time done right. -
Valerie: - Let's hope so young man. And I'll gladly anticipate that day. -
She then met Yara and Theon: - Well if it isn't the two squids. Still tainting yourselves in trouble between each other? -
Yara: - Just to let you know, I had been trying my best to mend my relationship with this showoff, but his ego is always a problem. -
Theon: - Pfffft, yeah sure, always blame the youngest one of the family. Isn't supposed to be your job to take all responsibility? -
Yara: - Says the one who brags that he can take care of himself alone already. -
Theon: - Because I know that I would be dead if you did! -
Then both of them started arguing again before Valerie shut them with a pinch in their ears: "Just like me and Wes when we were younger." - Be calm you two! Jeez, I already have enough trouble needed to be solved in the South. At least spare me of that job here. -
Just then, another voice spoke: - Yeah, you just jinxed yourself with that phrase, Val. -
Jon: - Father! Your grace! -
Ned and Wesley had just entered the tent. Valerie kneeled once she was in front of Ned.
Valerie: - Your grace, it's my honor to be here today in front of you. -
Ned: - Rise, lady Valerie. Women and men that serve the realm in the name of their king deserve my gratitude and respects. -
She did so and Wesley said: - Sorry we couldn't be here sooner to receive you, we were just discussing about some future projects we had in mind with some of the northern lords and ladies. Speaking of which... -
He then went towards his son and said: - Jon, can you please take Rosie with you to enjoy the magical show? You know how much she loves that. -
Jon: - Sure father. Come along Rosie! We're going to see cool magic tricks! -
Rosie loved magic and she was ecstatic to see it now!
Wesley: - Yara, go alongside him. And I don't want to hear another brawl between you and Theon, understood? -
Yara: - Yes, Lord Steambird. -
Ned: - Robb, Sansa, I want you to do the same with Bran and Arya please. And Theon, behave yourself too or otherwise, you will be stuck with bathroom duty for a week. Rhaenys, Aegon, your mother is looking for you, she wants you to meet with your uncle Oberyn. -
Robb and Sansa: - Yes father. -
Theon (a little livid): - Un-understood your grace. -
Rhaenys: - Uncle Oberyn came? That's great! -
Aegon: - Cool! I hope he remembered to bring my commission this time... -
Soon enough, the young teens and the children left leaving the three adults alone. Once they left, Wesley and Valerie proceeded towards the back of the tent alongside Ned. In there, there was another set of wall that basically separated a little section of it that looked like an office from the rest of the tent. After entering it, Wesley and Valerie put down some silencer blinds on the walls while Ned gave some orders to the guards around the tent. Once he returned and the walls were silenced, Wesley sealed the pass and then asked Valerie: - How are things in the South? -
Valerie sighed and pulled out a map of Westeros into the table, then spoke: - Terrible, Robert's whoring and partying is squandering the kingdom's treasury and he is showing NO sign of stopping. -
Both men sighed and then Wesley said: - Please tell me those were the bad news. -
Valerie: - Those were the bad news... -
Wesley: - ...You're just telling me that because I told you so, right? -
Valerie: - Of course I am. This is Robert whom we're talking about. I'm deeply sorry Ned but the Robert you had known since you and Wesley fostered under Jon Arryn is gone now. -
Ned simply let out a big breath of frustration and said: - God dammit Robert... and speaking of our foster father, how is Jon Arryn doing now with his condition? -
Valerie made a sad face then said: - I'm afraid the effects of the mercury poisoning are irreversible now. His days are counted and it won't be too long for the inevitable to happen. -
Both Wesley and Ned sat down in sadness. Both men along Robert had squired under Jon Arryn's tutelage and all 3 of them considered him as their second father. And now that they heard that he was sick beyond cure brought grief and pain to them. Valerie gave them respectfully a moment of silence before she continued...
Valerie: - The best I can give him is 10 years before he is forced to resign from his job and then another year before he leaves us for good. I'm sorry you two. -
Ned: - Don't be. Death is something we can't avoid and as such, we should not be drowned too much on sorrow. We must continue on for the sake of keeping the legacy of our loved ones alive. -
Wesley: - Since when did you started to quote my father man? -
Ned: - You know damn well that your family always get the best phrases for themselves and it is kind of unfair. So as a royal, I'm using them at my pleasure. -
Wesley: - Sure, whatever keeps your honor afloat. -
The three then chuckled at that before continuing...
Ned: - What's the status amongst the houses? -
Valerie: - The Lannisters are becoming more aggressive in their power tripping, even to the point that the Queen herself is trying to appoint officers from her house into MY army. I wouldn't mind that if it isn't for the fact that she is trying to BOLDLY APPOINT THEM INTO POSITIONS OF POWER! (slams her hands into the table before cooling down.) -
Wesley: - Relax sister, I know for a fact that her father, Lord Tywin, will be glad to put on the brakes on whatever scheme she is trying to come up with. He owes our house a favor. -
Ned: - Good Wesley. Valerie, next time she suggests potential recruits into your army, gladly accept them into your ranks... if they manage to pass your tests. -
Valerie smiled devilishly at this and said: - With pleasure Ned. -
Ned: - What about the rest of the houses? -
Valerie: - The Vale, the Westerlands, and the Riverlands are all calm and without any issues of urgency. The Reach is still being as productive as ever with that fool of Mace Tyrell on charge. By the way, he has just sent me a letter proposing another marriage contract with your son or the Targaryens again. -
Ned (sarcastically): - Thanks, I will take care of it... -
Valerie: - Dorne sends us their regards and gratitude again. Lord Doran also sends his congratulations to her niece alongside those of his children. He is actually planning a marriage contract between his daughter Arianne and your son Ned. -
Ned: - Really? How considerate of him. I heard a lot of great virtues coming from her. Does the girl herself approve of this? -
Valerie: - I received her personal correspondence alongside of her father, she is willing to give it a try on the condition that Robb would be the first to travel to Sunspear to meet her. -
Ned: - I will take consideration of his offer, but until now, no promises. -
Valerie: - He will understand. Renly is still in charge of the Stormlands and his growing complacent in his position. I still think it was foolish of Robert to assign him and not Stannis as the new Lord Paramount. -
Wesley: - And how are you both doing at Dragonstone? How is her wife Selyse and her daughter Shireen doing? Is the latter's condition much better now? -
Valerie: - The whole family sends their regards and gratitude for your medicine, Wesley. Shireen will be scarred unfortunately, but at least it won't be as ugly as to the scars that fully-formed greyscale inflicts. We had been doing great progress "transforming" the island. Speaking of islands, the Iron Islands had been quite silent now. -
Wesley: - Good, that means Yi is making a good job keeping them in check. -
Ned: - Good job you both. Now, onto something more secretive... how are the two "lizards" doing at the other side of the "lake"? -
Valerie: - I'm afraid the boy is transforming into his father in many ways, even to the point of how he treats his sister. Both of them had been forced to sell many of their valuables in order to find refuge from the blades of assassins and slavers. Fortunately, we have been able to buy back their most prized ones and stored them at Pentos. The magister there was given clear instructions alongside a fat chest of funds as to what to do with them. -
Ned: - Perfect, then that means that this phase of the plan has come to a close. Valerie, I want you to sent a special letter to the headmaster of the "Company of the Rose" as soon as you return to Dragonstone. It will be an important letter so make sure to send someone of high trust alongside an escort of your finest warriors. -
Valerie: - It will be done your Grace. -
Ned: - Good, now listen to me my dear friends. (Stands up) The future we will be facing soon is one filled with uncertainty, mystery and dangers that we haven't seen in centuries. "Winter is coming" and we must be prepared for it. -
Wesley and Valerie: - Of course your Grace. -
Ned: - But today, we live in joy and peace into an important celebration alongside our families and friends to commemorate the reasons for which we fought yesterday and for which we will keep fighting tomorrow. So let us enjoy it and worry about our plans for later! -
After that, nothing got in the way of the direwolves, the dragons and the steambirds to ruin a wonderful night. And it will be one to remember, for as the words of House Stark say "Winter is coming."
And with that, we finish this chapter! Did you like it along the new OC's? Give your reviews and don't forget to fav and follow! See ya on the next one-shot! House Steambird out.