Naruto finally is leader of the Westeros Rangers and travels the 7 Kingdoms to bolster his ranks and improve his reputation. His skills and powers grow and soon he will need them as Winter is coming. Enjoy!
Winter is Coming
Year 296 AL: 2 years before Game of Thrones
A year had passed since Naruto was empowered by King Robert and the Westeros Rangers were formed. After the battle with the pirates, word slowly began to spread about their skill and effectiveness. Slowly and gradually, people began to push aside the bad and questionable thoughts about the group and realized that they had potential, but were still small. The rangers stayed in Dorne for several moons (moon equivalent to month), training and keeping the peace while also getting 9 new recruits. They then moved from Dorne to Oldtown and then the Reach where they picked up 8 more recruits.
Omar and Tobas Sand, bastards from Sunspear. Jarack Dayne from Starfall. Felir Manwoody from Kingsgrave, Dylar Yronwood and Rydan Dalt. The Sand Snakes joined as well and with them, four brave women who wanted to fight. Obara, Nymeria and Tyene had convinced their father to let them join Naruto and the rangers and after a lot of convincing, he finally agreed if Naruto promised to look out for them and that if Oberyn desired it, they could return to Dorne. Joining the Sand Snakes were four other women. Lyndia Sand, Talia and Nyssa Uller and Astris Sand.
In Oldtown and the towns of the Reach, they picked up Arthur Hightower, Lancelot Vale, Bors Oakheart, Tristan Hall, Gawain Oak, Galahad Rane, Dagonet Bandallion and Guinevere Flowers, a maiden from Oldtown with excellent marksmanship. All of them joined Naruto and swore to serve him as best as they could. (The Knights from the 2004 King Arthur Movie)
Not counting Naruto and the Akatsuki members, the rangers were now at 31. The rangers had stopped robbers and rappers in small towns, killed bandits in the surrounding countryside of the Reach and took out poachers and thieves who were pillaging and killing around the Reach's fertile farmlands. The seasoned rangers and the new recruits all got valuable experience in the field.
Currently, the rangers were all on horses and were traveling down Roseroad on the way to Highgarden to get some rest, repair some armor and weapons and plan their next movements. They were all riding together towards Highgarden, enjoying the scenery and engaging in some casual conversation.
"Naruto. How much farther to Highgarden?" Lancelot asked.
"At this pace, we'll get there by midday. Why, you in a rush?" Naruto asked.
"No, I just heard that the ladies of Highgarden are very beautiful and I don't want them to suffer without my presence for much longer." Lancelot said as everyone chuckled.
"Yeah, but you better behave yourself. I don't need a repeat of what happened in Honeybolt." Naruto said as everyone chuckled.
"Ah, but that lass was gorgeous. Wasn't she Dag?" Bors asked.
"Yes. I'm sure you admired her as she walked away from you." Dagonet joked as everyone chuckled.
"Well, I'm just too much of a man for her to handle." Bors replied as he took a sip from a pouch of wine. "Ah, we're almost out of the Dornish red."
"Well, if you didn't drink our supply every hour then we'd still have some." Omar replied as Bors chuckled.
"Ah, but wine like this is best drunk quickly." Bors said as Omar shook his head.
"I'm sure we'll find a merchant selling the wine in Highgarden." Arthur said.
"So, Naruto. What's after Highgarden? Do we head to Kings Landing?" Lyndia asked.
"No, after Kings Landing we head to the Westerlands and to Lannisport." Naruto said.
"You sure that's a good idea?" Obara asked.
"Besides what people say about the Lannisters and their past decisions, they're still part of the 7 Kingdoms and it's our duty to patrol. We won't stay long. The shorter we're in the path of Tywin Lannister, the better." Naruto said as they continued on to Highgarden.
They made it to Highgarden by midday and arrived at the gate to see a host of Reach soldiers waiting at the gate. They escorted the rangers through the city to a private inn that Mace Tyrell had set for Naruto and his rangers. The soldiers said that Lord Tyrell had set aside the inn for the rangers and that Naruto would go to meet him as soon as possible. Naruto had his rangers get settled in while he was escorted to the castle to meet with Lord Tyrell.
Naruto was escorted to the castle and saw Lord Tyrell with some other lords and his son Willas sitting in a chair with Loras standing next to him. "Ser Naruto Uzumaki. On behalf of the Reach, I welcome you to Highgarden. News of you and your ranger's skill has reach our ears and we welcome you." Lord Tyrell said as Naruto bowed.
"Thank you, Lord Tyrell for your hospitality. Should you require any help from my rangers, you must simply ask." Naruto said as Lord Tyrell nodded. They spoke for a little bit about where his men could train and after that, Naruto left back to the inn. On his way, he admired the beautiful gardens and city. He brushed his hand against some roses near a city fountain and smirked.
"It's nice to see you after so long." Naruto said as he turned around to see Margaery Tyrell. She had grown even more beautiful since he last saw her in Kings Landing a few years ago.
"It's lovely to see you again, Naruto. It seems that much has changed since I was last in Kings Landing." Margaery said as she stepped forward.
"Indeed, much has." Naruto said as he smiled and kissed her hand. "How have you been?"
"Been keeping busy. Although nothing compared to what you have been doing I gather. Going through the 7 kingdoms and keeping the peace." Margaery said.
"Only two kingdoms so far and I'm still building my rangers. But it's been exciting." Naruto said as Margaery smiled.
"How long will you stay in Highgarden?" Margaery asked.
"A moon, possibly. There are other towns and cities we need to visit. I can't stay in one place for too long." Naruto said as Margaery nodded.
"Well, as long as you're in Kings Landing, allow me to be your guide. To return the courtesy of when I was in Kings Landing. Come. There is much to see." Margaery said as she hooked her arm with Naruto's and they walked together.
She showed Naruto around Highgarden and the castle, showing him lovely flower gardens, market places, the hedge mazes and the small river boats that flowed down the Mander river that allowed the riders to enjoy peace and quiet. Margaery and Naruto enjoyed some nice time together with her, talking about what they had been up to since they last saw each other in Kings Landing about 3 years ago.
Naruto told her about his adventures in Kings Landing, keeping the peace and making sure the city was at its best. Naruto kept it brief because he didn't want to bore her. Margaery told him about what she had been doing in Highgarden. Meeting nobles and lords, helping her brother Willas with the city issues dealing with the smallfolk and rejecting dozens of marriage proposals now that she was of age.
"I'd imagine that compared to what I've done, it must seem so boring compared to what you've been up to." Margaery said as she and Naruto walked down a gravel path near the river as they watched ducks fly in the air and small boats carrying happy couples travel down the river.
"Not boring but different. I imagine you've had your own excitement here fending off all those marriage proposals." Naruto joked as Margaery chuckled.
"Oh yes, it's been dreadful. Day after day, meeting with fat lords and young boys and getting to know them. Hearing their make believe achievements and escapades of fighting bandits and killing men when the truth is they've probably never used a sword before." Margaery joked as Naruto chuckled.
"And your father hasn't found a suitable match for you yet?" Naruto asked.
"No. My father is pushing that back as far as possible in hopes to marry me off to Prince Joffrey. He wants me to be Queen." Margaery said.
"And I'm sure the prospect of one day ruling the 7 kingdoms isn't at all attractive to you?" Naruto joked as Margaery chuckled.
"True. Being Queen is something I desire. I would be a good queen. Don't you think?" Margaery asked.
"Yes, but if that path has you marry Prince Joffrey, I'd think about a backup plan. From my brief encounters, it'd be like marrying a mad man. You might want to think about a different path. Besides, you're several summers older than him." Naruto said.
"Well, we must all do our duty for our house. And I do want to be queen." Margaery said as Naruto nodded.
"Well, you'll have some time to wait. The Prince still has two years before he's of marrying age." Naruto said as Margaery smiled and stopped which caused Naruto to stop as well.
"Which is why I plan to make the most of my remaining years." Margaery said as she leaned in to kiss him but Naruto stopped her.
"Margaery…as much as I would love to kiss you…and believe me, I would like to…you should know something." Naruto said as Margaery chuckled.
"About you and the daughters of Oberyn Martell. I know." Margaery said
"How?" Naruto asked.
"When you entered the city and you and the rangers stopped at the inn, I saw your interaction with them. Kisses and signs of affection, it was obvious." Margaery said. "But that's all right. We aren't to be married and I do care about you. And when I want something, I usually don't stop until it's mine."
Margaery then kissed him fiercely as Naruto was caught off guard for a bit but then kissed back. Margaery moaned as Naruto snaked his arms around her waist and she used her hands to push him off the road and into the woods. They moved pass bushes and trees until they were isolated by a circle of bushes and trees. Margaery then pushed forward until Naruto's back hit a tall tree.
She then grabbed his arms and moved them lower as they continued to kiss but Naruto broke it. "Margaery…are you sure about this? Isn't this a bit sudden?" Naruto asked as Margaery kissed him.
"It isn't any different when we were in Kings Landing." Margaery said as she undid his belt and tossed it and his sword to the side. "So…are you going to help me or should I just leave?"
"Allow me." Naruto said as they continued kissing and he undid her necklace and dropped it to the ground as Margaery took off his jacket.
Lemon Warning
Margaery and Naruto kept kissing, only breaking to take small breaths of air but then continue kissing. Naruto reached his hands down and grabbed her rear as Margaery moaned and tossed her head back, which allowed Naruto to kiss her neck. Naruto kissed her neck as Margaery moaned and ran her hands through his spiky hair.
"Naruto…{Moan}…I missed this." Margaery said as she helped him remove his tunic leaving him shirtless except for his necklace. Margaery ran her hands over his defined muscles and the small scars of his body as she felt herself getting wet. Only Naruto could make her feel like this.
"Naruto, quickly." Margaery said as Naruto kissed her and undid the straps of her dress and pulled them down to reveal her bosom.
"Of course." Naruto replied as she moved her hands down and worked on taking off his pants as Naruto kicked off his boots. His pants fell down to his feet, leaving him just in his breeches as Margaery grabbed his already hard 10-inch manhood, causing Naruto to groan.
Naruto then pushed her dress down and removed the last of her clothes, leaving Margaery bare and nude. Naruto picked her up as she wrapped her arms and legs around him and then laid her down on the soft grass. Naruto kissed her neck as she maneuvered her feet to push his breeches off and grinding her moist womanhood against his manhood.
Naruto then moved down to her breasts and kneaded one in one hand and sucked on the other causing Margaery to let out loud moans of pleasure. Naruto kept his hands on her breasts and moved south, laying small kissed on her stomach and moved down to her womanhood which had a small tuft of hair and was dripping wet and dived in. His tongue went to work as Margaery moaned and squirmed and pushed his head further.
"Oh…Naruto! More!" Margaery shouted as the excitement and pleasure she was feeling sent her over the top and she came. Naruto then crawled back up and kissed her. "No more! I want you in me!"
"Yes, my lady." Naruto said as he thrusts into her causing her to moan.
"Yes! Yes!" Margaery shouted as Naruto thrusts into her as she wrapped her arms and legs around him in pleasure. She clawed at his back as Naruto groaned and moved faster and hit deeper, sending Margaery into pleasure heaven. Naruto then flipped over so Margaery was on top and she placed her arms on his chest to balance herself as she moved her hips in tandem with his thrusts. All the pent up feelings Margaery had caused her to climax again while Naruto kept thrusting until he met his limit and quickly pulled out and released on her stomach to not get her pregnant.
Margaery collapsed on his chest as both were breathing a bit heavy. Margaery felt amazing and kissed Naruto as he kissed back. "Was that worth it?" Naruto asked.
"We're not done yet." Margaery said as she moved her hips, causing Naruto to groan in pleasure and the two young lovers kept going at it like animals in heat until the sun was setting.
Line Break xxxxx End of Lemon
Naruto and the rangers spent nearly two moons in Highgarden training and on missions. They dealt with large groups of bandits and poachers that attacked nearby farms and towns. They also helped settle disputes and quell fighting in towns. Naruto spent his time training and with Margaery, knowing that if she wanted to be Queen, this will probably be the last time he could be with her so he would treasure it. He met Lady Olena and Willas Tyrell and got to know the rulers of the Reach and knew that Lady Olena was the real brains and power behind the Reach.
They added 8 more recruits to the rangers from the surrounding cities and towns of the Reach who wanted to join the rangers and Naruto and the others trained them extensively to get them up to pace with the rest. After the time in Highgarden, Naruto bid a long goodbye to Margaery and then his group made their way to the Westerlands via the Searoad. Along that path, they ran into more bandits and mercenaries that controlled small towns and villages.
The group eventually made their way to Lannisport and rested there for a while before they would continue onto the other cities in the Westerlands. A week had passed and the rangers just spent their time either training or patrolling the city, with permission from House Lannister. Naruto and his rangers were in a training courtyard doing their daily training sessions and improving their skills. Naruto was sparring with Dagonet while Elric, Steffon and Yusuf helped train the new recruits.
Naruto was using his katana while Dagonet used his axe. Naruto ducked and dodged as Dagonet swung his axe in quick fluid motions. He then swung at Naruto's chest but Naruto blocked it with his katana. Dagonet then used the wooden handle to hit Naruto in the face but Naruto raised his gauntlet up and blocked it.
"Excellent, Dag. The blade isn't the only part of the weapon. You're getting better with the axe. Now, let's try the broadsword." Naruto said as Dagonet nodded and drew his broadsword and took a stance but then stopped.
"Naruto, we've got company." Dagonet said as Naruto turned and saw 10 Lannister soldiers walk into the courtyard. The rangers saw their new guests and stopped training as Naruto stepped forward.
"Something we can help you with?" Naruto asked.
"Ser Naruto Uzumaki. Lord Tywin of House Lannister, Warden of the West would like a word." A soldier said as Naruto sheathed his sword.
"I'll come but only if some of my men come with me." Naruto said as the soldier nodded. "Dag, Bors, Elric. Let's go. Everyone else, keep training."
Dag, Bors and Elric sheathed their weapons and walked with Naruto as the Lannister soldiers escorted them through the city to the tower of Lannisport which was house to cadet house of Lannister that ruled Lannisport. They entered the tower and walked up a flight of stairs and down a hallway decorated with the sigil and colors of House Lannister. The soldier then motioned them to stop as he approached a large door. The soldier entered for a second, spoke and then turned to Naruto.
"Lord Tywin will see you now. Your men will wait out here. You must also leave your weapon out here as well." The soldier said as Naruto nodded. Naruto undid his belt and handed his sword to Dag.
"Stay sharp." Naruto whispered as Dag nodded and took Naruto's sword. Naruto then walked into the room as the soldier closed the door behind him. Naruto looked around and saw it was a nice room with a lot of books and maps with windows that peered out into Lannisport bay. Naruto saw Tywin Lannister sitting at his desk signing papers. Despite his age, Tywin had an aura of power and strength about him. Not in the physical sense but in authority.
Naruto stood in the room as Tywin finished his last letter and put his quill down. He looked up and saw the young man standing before him who went from a young boy who defeated the Mountain to commanding a small yet skilled group of loyal fighters and had won the favor of several lords and the smallfolk.
"Lord Tywin. You called for me." Naruto said as Tywin nodded.
"I did. Please, sit." Tywin said as he motioned Naruto to sit in a chair and Naruto sat down as Tywin got up and walked over to a small table to get two cups of wine. "I wanted to meet the young man who leads the Westeros Rangers. When I heard you came to Lannisport, I eventually made my way over here on some business."
Tywin then walked over to Naruto and held out the cup and Naruto took it. Tywin then walked back to his desk and took a seat. "It seems you've done well for yourself since the tournament in Kings Landing. I've heard of your many accomplishments." Tywin said.
"Thank you, Lord Tywin." Naruto replied.
"I've also heard of the exploits of the rangers. It's an interesting concept. I imagine it must be difficult for you and your rangers." Tywin said.
"My men and women are tough. They can handle themselves." Naruto said.
"It's interesting that your rangers consist of people from various houses and backgrounds. None of them are of noble birth or noble blood." Tywin said.
"That isn't a requirement for being a ranger or a great warrior. I assure you, my men are more skilled than typical warriors and knights. Take me, for example. I'm not from any noble blood or house in Westeros yet I was able to bring down the Mountain." Naruto said.
"Yes, I remember that very well. Something that surprised me. Ser Clegane is not someone who has ever been defeated. Something he still hasn't come to turns with. He's not a man to suffer defeat well." Tywin said.
"Ah, so he's alive." Naruto replied.
"He is. Took several years before he could walk properly and heal. He hasn't been the same." Tywin said.
"Hmm, and how do you feel, Lord Tywin? The Mountain is one of your most valuable banner men and he was defeated by a young boy." Naruto said.
"It intrigued me. A young boy who was skilled and smart enough to defeat the Mountain. Something that no man has ever done before. And given your appearance, my first thought was that you were a bastard of one of my cousins." Tywin said.
"Well, I'm sure I'm not. My father wasn't a Lannister, just another man with golden hair and I took after him. But I honor his memory and legacy by carrying his sword and doing what he wanted me to do." Naruto said as Tywin nodded.
"The man who puts family above all will survive. And you've begun to establish your name and legacy. Soon, all the 7 Kingdoms from the nobles to the smallfolk will know who you are and what you've done." Tywin said.
"You don't need wealth or power to make history. But then again, look who I'm talking to. Lord of House Lannister, one of the richest family's in the realm with the most pull. Although, wealth won't last forever. You might want to consider that in the future." Naruto said as Tywin looked at him.
"I will." Tywin replied. "Tell me, Naruto. Which house do you answer to?"
"I don't answer to any one house. I serve the realm." Naruto said as Tywin raised an eyebrow.
"That's interesting. With King Robert, I'd imagine you serve House Baratheon." Tywin said.
"King Robert is king but he gave me the power to serve justice throughout the 7 kingdoms and to protect people. That expands beyond any one house and beyond his reign should the day come when he inevitably dies." Naruto said.
"And should the path of justice put you in opposition to one house?" Tywin asked.
"I would do what I must to ensure justice is done. For example, if members of House Lannister went brigands and hurt innocent people, then I would be in my authority to deal out justice despite what the ruler of said House would have to say." Naruto said as Tywin nodded. "I imagine that's why you asked me to come here, to see where my alliances fall. I do what I do to protect people…all people."
"Good to know." Tywin responded as Naruto put his cup of wine down.
"Now, if you'll excuse me I need to return to my men. Thank you, for allowing my men and I into the city." Naruto said as he got up and returned to his men.
Tywin watched Naruto leave and took a sip of wine. "Interesting man." Tywin said to himself.
Line Break xxxxx
Year 298 AL: The Game Begins
Naruto was now at the age of 21 and stood 6ft2. He was tall and had defined muscles from all the training and battles he and his rangers had been in. His typical outfit consisted of pants, boots, a tunic and his jacket with his leather armor and metal gauntlets. He still had on the Ranger pin that King Robert had given him and he even had a ranger cloth around his shoulder like his men. He was a good leader and all his rangers trusted him with their lives. Naruto has shown on several missions that he would protect any one of his rangers with his life if need be.
The Akatsuki had slowly grown as well, with new members and recruits who helped watch over the 7 kingdoms and made Naruto's job easier. The Akatsuki gave Naruto access to information in all the 7 kingdoms, weapons and bombs. His training as Azor Ahai had also grown. He had unlocked the last two element powers: earth and lightning. He had only mastered fire and he still needed to train in the other elements. But his push and pull force abilities were completely mastered and now he just needed to master his other abilities.
The rangers also knew of Naruto's unique abilities when he used them to save them. During a mission last year where the rangers had to save a village that was being attacked by brigands, in a last ditch effort the brigands set the village on fire. Naruto used his pull ability to save Nymeria and Tyene from being squished and pushed Bors and Dagonet from a burning beam. After the rangers saw him use his powers, he used his control of water to put out the fire and save the village. After that, Naruto told them about his powers and about the necklace. He told them briefly about what he could do and who he was and he didn't want them to look at him differently. Naruto just told them that he was given this necklace and these powers to help people and he would continue to do that with the rangers. The rangers understood and it took some getting use to but they kept his secret until Naruto was ready for the realm to know who he really was.
But the villagers also saw what Naruto did and this spread rumors of Naruto and his unique abilities. The tales varied from him being blessed by the 7 and given extraordinary powers or that he made a pact with a demon for his powers. The story depended on if the person liked or didn't like him. Either way, Naruto wasn't too worried because these were rumors from smallfolk and unless he actually used his powers in front of nobles who could be believed, then he was fine for now.
The rangers now were at 100 strong with people from all 7 realms, from the North to Dorne. The seasoned members helped train the new recruits but every single one of them were skilled enough to be dangerous against typical bandits or poachers. Each member of the rangers was unique with their preferred weapons, tools and armor but they all knew how to fight as one. Under Naruto's leadership, the rangers were a deadly force to be reckoned with. Something that the lords of the 7 kingdoms were beginning to understand. The rangers had the love of the smallfolk and some nobles while others attempted to bride them in return for loyalty. All that did was give the rangers some extra gold to use as they see fit.
In the valleys of the Vale, a large group of 40 Hill Tribesmen were attacking the Palisade Village, only a short ride away from the Crossroads Inn and the Kingsroad. They were pillaging the town and killing anyone who got in their way. The village had some knights and men who could fight and did their best to fight but the Hill Tribes were brutal and relentless. A farmer, his wife and son ran from their house for cover but were cut off. Two Hill Tribesmen saw them and charged at them with their swords as the farmer and his family cowered in fear. They closed their eyes and held each other as the two Hill Tribesmen raised their swords but before they could deliver the final swing, they were killed with an arrow to the throat.
The farmer saw the Hill Tribesmen fall over and choke on their own blood and then heard a war cry. He turned and saw the rangers ride into the village.
"A'OO! A'OO!" The rangers shouted as they stormed into the village to protect the townspeople. Naruto was on his horse and rode into the village and used his sword and killed two Hill Tribesmen who were trying to break into a house. The other rangers rode into the village while others surrounded it and killed the Hill Tribesmen.
Elric rode by and used his spear and skewered a rock slinger while Moran used his bow and shot down four Hill Tribesmen with pinpoint accuracy. Nymeria rode by and used her whip to pull drag a Hill Tribesmen. Omar Sand used his sword and killed two more Hill Tribesmen while Tristan rode by and used his bow and killed more. Dagonet jumped off his horse and beheaded a Hill Tribesmen with his broadsword, blocked an axe from another and head butted him in the face. Lancelot used his twin swords and cut the head of a Hill Tribesmen while Bors used his axe and killed another. Gawain was forced off his horse but used his small axe and club combo to kill three Hill Tribesmen. Naruto then rode by and threw 6 throwing stars and killed another Hill Tribesmen while his rangers killed the rest. Mathis Coldbright, the man Naruto knew from the tournament rode by and shot three Hill Tribesmen dead with his bow. He joined the rangers when Naruto and his group went North.
Naruto stopped his horse and saw all his rangers were fine and unharmed. "Well done, Rangers!" Naruto shouted.
"A'OO! A'OO! A'OO!" The rangers shouted as they cheered and the village people cheered for them for saving their lives. Naruto and his rangers then grabbed the dead Hill Tribesmen and put their bodies together on a pyre to burn them.
The put the bodies in a small ditch on the outskirts of the village and piled them in. When they were all there, they took the weapons and whatever armor or useful items from the bodies for themselves or to give to the village and then Naruto set the bodies ablaze.
After that, the villagers thanked the rangers for saving them. The rangers relaxed at the local tavern and got some drinks and some food. Everyone was relaxing and enjoying themselves, celebrating another job well done and that no one was dead. Naruto was sitting down and drinking some ale as Bors was entertaining everyone with a funny joke.
"And let's raise a glass to our newest recruit who showed us his balls and killed four Hill Tribesmen with his sword! Cheers, Boris Snow!" Bors shouted as everyone cheered and drank as Boris smiled and drank his ale. Boris was one of the new recruits the rangers got from the North. A bastard of a member of House Forrester, he was the biggest, tallest and strongest member of the rangers. He was easily 7 ft. tall and large both muscle and fat wise. Naruto and the rangers encountered him in the North and Naruto offered him to join the rangers and has been training him since. He definitely had giant's blood in him, like Hodor the stable boy he saw in Winterfell. Naruto and the others helped train Boris and using his larger frame to his advantaged, Boris was quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with. Naruto guessed that in the future with enough training, Boris could give the Mountain and the Hound a run for tallest and strongest warrior.
"Cheers!" Naruto said as Boris looked at him. Naruto smiled and nodded as Boris nodded back with a smile of gratitude. Naruto chuckled as he looked over a map to figure out where they would go next when he felt someone sit down next to him. "How come you're not enjoying yourself?" Naruto turned and saw Nymeria sit down next to him.
"I am. But we've also got to figure out where to go next. We don't want to eat all the food in the village, we just saved it." Naruto joked as he took a sip of ale and looked over the map.
"So, where are you thinking?" Nymeria asked.
"Well, maybe head to the Westerlands. Probably some bandits there. Or we could head North." Naruto said as he looked over the map. "We'll need to stock up on supplies for the trip."
"I'm sure the villagers will happily help us with that." Nymeria said as they saw Yusuf run over with a raven on his shoulder.
"Naruto, a raven came from Kings Landing. You need to read it." Yusuf said as Naruto took the piece of parchment and read it. After he read it, Naruto exhaled and closed his eyes.
"Naruto, what's wrong?" Nymeria asked.
"Jon Arryn is dead. He passed away last night." Naruto said as Nymeria held his hand.
"I'm sorry, Naruto. I know he was very important to you." Nymeria said.
"I wouldn't be here right now without him. He was like family." Naruto said as he took a deep breath and then drank the rest of the ale.
"I'll get the men ready. We'll ride for Kings Landing at once." Yusuf said.
"No, it's ok. I'll do it." Naruto said as he stood up.
"Rangers!" Naruto said as everyone looked at him. "I just received a raven from Kings Landing. The Hand of the King, Jon Arryn has passed away. Get your drinks and meals from the road, we ride for Kings Landing before it gets dark."
"You heard him. Move your asses." Elric said as the men immediately got up to get their gear ready.
Line Break xxxxx
It took two days as fast as they could ride for the rangers to make it to Kings Landing. Once they arrived at the city, Naruto and his men rode into the city to the Red Keep. Naruto heard the bell towers ring to honor the death of Jon Arryn. The people of Kings Landing who knew of Naruto recognized him as he and his rangers rode through the city. They waved and cheered for him as Naruto smiled and waved back. The city looked all right and the people looked happy enough but Naruto wondered how good Jon was able to keep the city peaceful and afloat by himself.
Naruto and his men arrived at the stables near the Red Keep and left tied their horses there and followed Naruto into the Red Keep. The City Watch allowed Naruto through and Naruto made his way through the castle to the throne room where the Silent Sisters were performing death rites for the deceased Hand of the King. Naruto walked into the throne room and saw the Silent Sisters at work and the High Septon reading some prayers. The High Septon saw Naruto and walked over to him.
"The 7 bid you a well-earned return to Kings Landing, Ser Naruto. It is unfortunate that it is due to these circumstances." The High Septon said as Naruto nodded.
"Thank you, High Septon." Naruto said as he walked forward and looked at Jon's lifeless body. Naruto took a breath and undid his ranger cloth around his arm and then placed it next to Jon's body. "May you find peace, Jon. The realm will be loss without you, but I will honor your memory."
Naruto then turned to his men. "I know that probably none of you knew Jon Arryn but he is the reason we are all here together. After I was knighted in a tournament and came back to Kings Landing years ago, King Robert had me work under Jon. It was because of him that I was able to help Kings Landing and he spoke to Robert and allowed me to lead the Rangers. We're all here today because of him. The realm has lost a great man." Naruto said as he turned around towards Jon's body and kneeled and the other rangers did the same.
"One life ends, but we will honor his memory. For the realm." Naruto said.
"For the realm." The rangers replied as they honored Jon Arryn.
Naruto and the rangers honored Jon Arryn and then left the Red Keep to rest and settle in. They were leaving when a City Watch guard walked up to them. "Ser Naruto, King Robert would like to speak to you." He said as Naruto nodded.
"Go get some rest and enjoy yourselves on me." Naruto said as he tossed up a pouch of coins and Elric caught it. His men left while Naruto was escorted through the Red Keep to the King's chambers. He entered the chambers to see Robert at his desk with Ser Barristan by his side.
Robert and Barristan saw Naruto enter and saw the young boy who helped run Kings Landing had grown into a man, a good leader and a fine warrior. "Your grace." Naruto said.
"That'll be all." Robert said as the City Watch member left and Robert stood up. "Gods, Naruto. Look at you! Hard to believe that years ago, you were just a young boy who wanted to fight in a tournament. Now, you're a knight leading the finest bunch of warriors in the 7 kingdoms. I've heard of your exploits around the 7 kingdoms. You've done more than I could have imagined, you've been keeping the peace and protecting the people."
"It's not that hard when you have good men by your side." Naruto said as Robert and Barristan chuckled. "I returned as fast as I could when I heard of Lord Arryn's death. I'm sorry, your grace. I knew he was like a father to you."
"Aye, that he was. The man taught me since I was a little shit and stood by my side when I became King. The realm is a lesser place without him in it. I also know he meant a great deal to you as well." Robert said as Naruto nodded.
"Yes, your grace. I don't think I'd be where I am today without him. How did he die?" Naruto asked.
"I don't know." Robert said as he stood up. "One moment he was fine, the next dead. I heard he had been doing some research and traveling all around Kings Landing for something. Could be that all the work finally got to him."
"It's been known to happen." Barristan said as Naruto nodded.
"Things have changed since I've been gone. The city is looking good." Naruto said as Robert chuckled.
"Aye, these past few years are the best it's been in my lifetime. The stench of piss and shit is gone, business continues to flow and the troubles aren't as big. Jon did a great job with this city without your help. But I know that a lot of this was because of you, Naruto. I'd like to thank you, somehow." Robert said.
"I don't need anything your grace. The rangers are all I need." Naruto said as Robert chuckled and pulled out a rolled piece of parchment from a drawer.
"I'd thought you would say that. That's why I want to make it permanent." Robert said as he handed the parchment to Naruto and Naruto read it. "Under the power of Robert of the House Baratheon, King of the Andals and the First men, Lord of the Seven Kingdoms, I hereby decree that the Westeros Rangers will be a permanent fixture of the realm. Naruto Uzumaki is to be given full command of his rangers and the power to enforce justice and ensure peace throughout the 7 kingdoms without the interference of any lord. The leader of the rangers, at this point Naruto Uzumaki, will be allowed to sit and work with the small council from this day forth to further protect the realm."
"Your grace, I don't know what to say." Naruto said as Robert chuckled.
"Nothing. You've done a fine job with the rangers and this will ensure their legacy. Jon came to me moons ago with that idea and I agreed. He was right when he came to me about the rangers and you leading them. Just continue your job." Robert said as Naruto nodded.
"I will honor you and Lord Arryn, your grace." Naruto said as Robert chuckled and pat him on the shoulder.
"Good. Now that you are back, the king would ask the rangers to accompany me and the royal caravan to Winterfell to meet with Ned Stark." Robert said.
"You intend to have Lord Stark become your Hand of the King?" Naruto asked.
"Aye. Ned is a dear friend. He helped me take the Iron Throne and now he'll help me rule while I drink and whore myself to an early grave." Robert said with a chuckle.
"I would have thought that Lord Tywin would be your hand." Naruto said.
"Bah, I already have enough Lannisters in Kings Landing. Ned is my friend, and he'll be a good hand. You've met him, right?" Robert asked.
"I have. He's a good man, an honorable man." Naruto said as he remembered his brief stop in Winterfell.
"And he's just who I need with me in Kings Landing. He'll definitely make your job easier." Robert said as Naruto nodded.
"The rangers and I will accompany you to Winterfell. I ask, your grace, that after the trip, my rangers and I be allowed to inspect the Night's Watch." Naruto said as Robert and Barristan raised an eyebrow.
"Why?" Barristan asked.
"The Wall and the Night's Watch falls into the 7 Kingdoms and I've been getting reports about the increase in Wildling parties that have been making their way south. More so than ever has been recorded. I want to make sure things are ok. It's far north but it does fall under my concern." Naruto said as Robert nodded.
"All right. Although you won't find it pleasant. We leave in four days for Winterfell." Robert said as Naruto nodded.
"Yes your grace." Naruto replied and left.
Naruto left Robert's chambers and made his way out of the Red Keep. He walked by the Throne Room out the main doors when he stopped. "I see the Spider hasn't changed that much." Naruto said as he turned to see Varys.
"Naruto, it's good to see you again. Although, it was under such morbid circumstances." Varys said.
"Lord Varys. Good to see you as well." Naruto replied.
"I've heard of your exploits around the 7 kingdoms. You've won the hearts and love of the smallfolk and nobles alike. Very impressive." Varys said.
"Thank you. I imagine you haven't been up to much in Westeros although there are some recent developments in Essos that are of intrigue." Naruto said.
"Yes. Shall we?" Varys said as he led Naruto from the Red Keep to a private chamber to talk. "King Robert has no doubt talked to you about appointing Ned Stark as his new hand?"
"He has. Interesting move. Did you have anything to do with Jon Arryn's death?" Naruto asked.
"Of course not. I had nothing against Jon Arryn. He was a good man and that is the reason he was killed." Varys said.
"What do you mean?" Naruto asked.
"My little birds come to me with whispers and tales from all over Essos and Westeros. The most recent ones have been very interesting as they deal with the deceased Lord Hand. They tell me his last few days were very interesting. He traveled around Kings Landing and visiting very interesting places. Brothels and inns included." Varys said.
"Jon was an honorable man; he wouldn't go to a brothel without a reason." Naruto said.
"I agree. They told me his last days were unusual for a man who dies of stress or over working. I believe his last few words were the Seed is Strong." Varys said as Naruto raised an eyebrow.
"Why are you telling me this?" Naruto asked.
"Because I believe that Jon Arryn discovered something that he shouldn't have and that someone had him killed. For what, I cannot say. And I know you'll want to find justice for him but you're not naïve. You've grown to play the game and know how to play it well. The wheel is spinning my friend and I believe we shall find ourselves with very dangerous circumstances in the future. Perhaps sorting this out will help us prepare." Varys said as Naruto looked at him.
"If what you're saying is true…why would someone want him dead? What could they hope to accomplish?" Naruto asked.
"It's unknown as of the moment. I'll attempt to figure out. In the meantime, we must do our best to ensure peace and stability within the realm." Varys said.
"That won't be easy. With Ned Stark coming to Kings Landing, you know he and the Lannisters will butt heads. Ned is honorable but he has no idea how to play politics here in Kings Landing and should he think Jon didn't die of natural causes." Naruto said as Varys nodded.
"Then we'll have war and war is terribly drool and not good for the realm. The players will make their moves and the pieces will fall. What do you fancy yourself, Naruto? A player or a piece?" Varys asked.
"Time will tell. The only thing we can do now is to try and prevent war from coming and keep the peace. My rangers have been doing a good enough job at that under Robert, but should Joffrey rule, that'll be more difficult." Naruto said as Varys nodded.
"Yes, the boy hasn't shown any qualities of a decent leader. But he is showing the tendencies of the late Mad King. I saw him dive into madness, Joffrey is not that far off." Varys said.
"Then we'll just have to keep things peaceful until someone else can take the throne. How is Daenerys?" Naruto asked.
"Some troubling news there, I'm afraid. It seems that Viserys has completely exuded his control over his sister and Magister Mopatis. My friend has done his best to stop him but there is only so much he can do. I heard that Viserys has engaged his sister to a Dothraki Khal named Drogo in exchange for a large army." Varys said.
"Crap." Naruto said as he rubbed his forehead.
"And some more troubling news. It seems you were right, my friend, about Viserys. Magister Mopatis writes to me saying he is showing signs of the Targaryen madness of the Mad King. Early stages mind you, but behavior that doesn't bode well for the future of the 7 kingdoms. Even if he was to rule, I'm afraid it wouldn't be for the best of the realm." Varys said.
"Well, Viserys may become mad but not smart. No matter what he bribed Khal Drogo with, no Dothraki would ever cross the Narrow Sea. They fear any water their horses can't drink from. I believe it's time we shift our focus to supporting Daenerys and getting her a proper army and away from the Dothraki as soon as possible." Naruto said.
"Easier said than done but I shall do my best. My spy within will keep us updated of what occurs. For now, I believe it would be best to make sure Daenerys has 7 kingdoms to rule should she return." Varys said as Naruto nodded.
"It's nice that we're somewhat on the same page and can work together." Naruto said as Varys nodded.
"Yes, it is. We both have the same goal in mind, the good of the realm and we must do what we must to survive and make sure the realm survives." Varys said.
"Something tells me that will be tested soon enough." Naruto said as he then left.
Naruto left the Red Keep and walked through Kings Landing and made his way to the Brightest Light brothel. He entered the secret room and saw Achilles sitting at his desk. "Naruto, it's good to see you unharmed and back in Kings Landing. You've been doing good work and your training has been progressing well." Achilles said.
"Thank you, Achilles. And it's nice to see you well. The Akatsuki are doing well in helping make my job easier." Naruto said as Achilles nodded.
"Yes, we've gotten new members and their training is going well and are discreet. We're gathering resources and consolidating them for whatever use you need." Achilles said.
"Good. Have our spies in Kings Landing picked up anything interesting?" Naruto asked.
"Some whispers and things you may find interesting. We believe that Jon Arryn didn't die of traditional causes. Given how he was acting before his death, we think someone killed him. For what reason, we're still unsure. But we believe it was poison. We're gonna have a member trained in poison examine Lord Arryn's body to check." Achilles said as Naruto nodded.
"I just heard the same thing from Lord Varys. I trust your instincts, but I pray to god that this doesn't end in something bad." Naruto said as Achilles nodded.
"As do I. The happenings of the 7 kingdoms are important but we've been getting omens and words from our spies in the north. Distressing signs as summer seems to be coming to an end and bringing a longer winter." Achilles said as Naruto nodded.
"I just hope to hell that I'm ready enough." Naruto said as Achilles nodded.
"Time will tell. We've set aside weapons, gold and other resources for when the time comes. Speaking of gold, there is some interesting information regarding the Master of Coin, Petyr Baelish." Achilles said.
"What?" Naruto asked.
"We've had a spy follow him since you've left and we've learned some information that doesn't make complete sense. Baelish controls the King's money and under his command as Master of Coin, the crown has gone into 6 million dragons in debt." Achilles said as Naruto looked at him like he was insane.
"Are you serious? 6 million dragons in debt? That's impossible. The King's treasury was well supplied during the Mad King's reign. There is no way that Jon would let the Kingdom fall into 6 million dragons in debt. Even with all the work we've done to help this city, I know we helped stimulate commerce and Jon wrote to me saying that he was getting a steady flow of income off of the tax from the ports. Despite Robert's appetite for feasts and tournaments, that's not possible." Naruto said as Achilles nodded.
"That's what we believe as well. We've been following him for a while to find his books and figure out if the crown is truly that much in debt or if he is behind it. But he's very crafty and potentially dangerous. He was a boy who came from no noble family and managed to amass wealth and political power. We'll figure out what he's really up to and then you decide how we act." Achilles said as Naruto nodded.
"Good, and figure out everything we can on Lord Baelish. If he is trying to put the crown in debt, I want to know everything about him. First rule of warfare: know your enemy." Naruto said as Achilles nodded.
"Of course. We've kept our spies on Lord Varys and it would seem that he has no ill intentions toward you. We'll keep our eyes on him all the same." Achilles said.
"Good. I like him but I would be an idiot to completely trust him now without knowing more." Naruto said as Achilles nodded. "He says that Viserys has been showing signs of turning into his father."
"He is. Our spy says that he's exuding his control over his sister and keeping her repressed in order to get his throne. He sees her as nothing more than a pawn for him to use." Achilles said.
"She's gonna need help. Achilles, have your spy keep an eye on her and update us should something happen." Naruto said as Achilles nodded. "At least things won't be boring."
Line Break xxxxx
After arriving in Kings Landing and paying his respects to Jon, Naruto and his rangers led the King's caravan up the Kingsroad to Winterfell. The trip would normally take a fortnight if the group rested at night, but with the royal caravan and royal family coming as well, it to at least a moon or month to get to Winterfell. They kept stopping because the royal carriage that held the queen, princes Joffrey and Tommen and princess Myrcella would need constant attention and fixing on the road.
Eventually they were closing in on Winterfell and could see it in the distance. Naruto and some of his rangers led the caravan while the others were placed alongside the rest of the caravan for protection. Naruto had Yusuf, Aguilar, Adawale, the Sand Snakes, Bors, Dagonet, Tristan, Arthur and Lancelot in the front with him with the others spread out along the rest of the group. They rode towards Winterfell and were escorted by four Stark Banner men. They rode down the road of the outer courtyard of Winterfell and saw dozens of people standing alongside the road and watching intently for the King. Naruto looked through the crowd and saw a small gear with a knight's helmet on her head and a fur coat on her shoulders. She stood on a wagon and looked at the King's company with intrigue and then quickly ran into the castle.
They rode into the main yard of Winterfell where Lord Stark, his family and the men and women of Winterfell were standing at attention for the King. Naruto and his rangers rode into the yard first and moved to the side to allow the royal carriage in. Naruto rode in and looked at Lord Stark and nodded as Lord Stark nodded back. Jaime Lannister then rode into the yard with Prince Joffrey, now at the age of 16 behind him and his sworn sword, Sandor Clegane, the Hound. Naruto looked at the Starks and saw that the eldest girl, Sansa was looking at Joffrey with eyes of love and admiration.
"Boy, is that girl in for a rude awakening." Tyene said as Naruto chuckled.
The royal carriage then made its way into the yard followed by King Robert and three Kings Guard members. Lord Stark and all the Northern men kneeled as Robert stopped his horse and had three young squires bring over a stool and help him off his horse. Robert then walked over to Lord Stark and motioned them to rise and they did.
"Your grace." Ned said.
"You got fat." Robert said as he looked at Ned and there was a moment of silence as everyone wondered what would happen. Ned then looked down at Robert's belly and raised an eyebrow, which caused Robert to laugh and the two friends embrace each other like brothers.
"Cat!" Robert said as he hugged Catelyn Stark.
"Your grace." Catelyn replied as Robert kissed her cheek and pat Rickon on the head.
"9 years! Why haven't I seen you? Where have you been?" Robert asked.
"Guarding the north for you, your grace. Winterfell is yours." Ned said as the Queen got out of her carriage followed by Princess Mrycella and Prince Tommen. Princess Mrycella was the middle child at 14 years old and Prince Tommen was the youngest at 12. (I changed up the ages of the characters to fit more sense with the show)
Robert then looked over the rest of Ned's family as Queen Cersei walked over. Ned then bowed and kissed her hand while Cersei did her best to have a fake smile on her face. "My queen." Ned said.
"My queen." Catelyn said as she bowed.
"Take me to your crypts. I want to pay my respects." Robert said to Ned.
"We've been riding for a month, my love. Surely the dead can wait." Cersei replied.
"Ned." Robert said as he walked to the catacombs and Ned followed.
"Where's the imp?" Arya asked Sansa as Cersei walked over to Jaime.
"Where is our brother? Go and find the little beast." Cersei said as Jaime left on his horse to go find Tyrion. He had a good idea as to where he was.
Naruto and his men got off their horses and brought them over to the stables. Hodor walked over and took the reins. "Thank you, Hodor." Naruto said.
"Hodor." Hodor said happily as he took the reins. Naruto then undid the straps of the saddle and took it off to allow the horses to rest. The other rangers got their stuff and put their horses in the stables.
"It's colder up here." Tyene said as she rubbed her arms. She was wearing her typical outfit but now had on a longer wool tunic and a fur coat to help with the cold.
"Yeah, the days are getting shorter. Winter is definitely coming and it's hitting the North first." Naruto said as he hugged Tyene and she hugged him.
"Aren't you cold?" Tyene asked as Naruto chuckled.
"I'm fine." Naruto said as he held his necklace and Tyene chuckled.
"Well, not all of us have unique powers that keep us warm." Tyene said as Naruto helped put her with her saddle.
"Don't worry, I'm sure the chambers here will be warm." Naruto said as Robb Stark and Jon Snow walked over.
"Jon, Robb, it's good to see you two. You've gotten older." Naruto said as he shook their hands.
"And your group has gotten bigger." Robb said.
"More rangers, yes. Some new recruits but they're picking up things quickly. Why don't we see how much you both have learned since I was last here?" Naruto said as they nodded and escorted Naruto and his rangers to their quarters. They were all given nice and spacious quarters in one of the courtyards of Winterfell, the castle was big and had many halls and rooms so the King and his company would be comfortable. Naruto put his stuff in the quarters he would share with the Sand Snakes which had a bed big enough for all of them.
While the King's Company was getting settled in, Robert was with Ned down in the crypts below Winterfell. "Tell me about Jon Arryn." Ned said.
"One minute he was fine, the next. Burned right through him, whatever it was. I loved that man." Robert said.
"We both did." Ned replied.
"He never had to teach you much, but me? You remember me at 16?" Robert asked as Ned chuckled. "All I wanted to do was crack skulls and fuck girls. He showed me what was what."
"Aye." Ned said as Robert looked at him.
"Don't look at me like that. It's not his fault I didn't listen." Robert said as they chuckled. "I need you, Ned. Down in Kings Landing, not up here where your no damn use to anybody. Lord Eddard Stark. I would name you the Hand of the King."
Ned was shocked and quickly kneeled. "I'm not worthy of the honor. I'm trying to get you to run my kingdom while I eat, drink and whore my way to an early grave. Damn it, Ned. Stand up." Robert said as Ned rose.
"You helped me win the Iron Throne and now help me keep the damn thing. We were meant to rule together. If your sister had lived, we would have been bound by blood. Well, it's not too late. I have a son, you have a daughter, we'll join our houses." Robert said as he kept walking through the crypts and didn't give Ned a chance to respond.
Robert and Ned eventually made their way over to the grave of Lyanna Stark, Ned's sister and Robert's intended fiancé before she was kidnapped by Rhaegar Targaryen which led to Robert's Rebellion. Robert looked lovingly at Lyanna's grave and placed an eagle's feather down.
"Did you have to bury her in a place like this? She should be somewhere with the sun and the clouds above her." Robert said.
"She was my sister. This is where she belongs." Ned said.
"She belonged with me." Robert said as he touched her stone carving. "In my dreams I kill him every knight."
"It's done, your grace. The Targaryens are gone." Ned said.
"Not all of them." Robert said in anger.
Line Break xxxxx
Naruto and his rangers spent the afternoon relaxing, settling in and helping the Royal party get settled in. They did some light training and drank some nice northern ale and got dressed up for the feast tonight. They dressed up a bit but no too serious, Naruto wanted his men comfortable. Naruto wore his jacket with the leaf symbol on his back and pants and boots. The feast was in full swing as the King's party and Stark men filled the feast hall with loud cheers of drunken laughter and good conversation.
Naruto and his men were enjoying themselves and eating roasted boar, deer, chicken, vegetables, bread and plenty of ale. Naruto was taking a sip of ale and leaning against the wall as he watched his men enjoy themselves. They were talking and telling jokes while stuffing their faces. He saw Lancelot flirting with some northern women and Bors and Dagonet having a drinking contest with people betting on them. He saw the Sand Snakes talking to Arya who had taken an interest in them since they last came to Winterfell. She admired them as strong female warriors and wanted to be like them.
Naruto shook his head as he saw Robert chugging ale and making out with a female servant in full view of everyone, especially Queen Cersei who was sitting in the royal section of the great hall with her children, Catelyn and Ned. Naruto finished his ale and walked to get another one and then take a walk outside and get some air.
In the training yard near the stables, Jon Snow was busy practicing his sword techniques against a training dummy and was doing a good job. "Is he dead yet?" Jon heard as he turned to see his Uncle Benjen Stark arrive on his horse.
"Uncle Benjen!" Jon said as he walked up to him and hugged him as Benjen hugged him back and patted him on the shoulder.
"You've gotten bigger." Benjen said as he looked at how big Jon had gotten. "I rode all day. I didn't want to leave you alone with the Lannisters. Find you at the feast?"
"Lady Stark thought it might insult the royal family to seat a bastard in their midst." Jon said as Benjen nodded.
"Well, you've got other opportunities out there. Either with the rangers or your welcome on the Wall. No bastard was ever refused a seat there." Benjen said.
"So take me with you when you go back." Jon said.
"Jon—""Father will let me if you ask him. I know he will." Jon said.
"The Wall isn't going anywhere." Benjen said.
"I'm ready." Jon said.
"You don't understand what you'll be giving up. We have no families. None of us will ever father sons." Benjen said.
"I don't care about that." Jon said.
"All right, I'll think about it. I better get inside. Rescue your father from the lions." Benjen said as he pat Jon on the shoulder. "We'll talk later."
Benjen left so Jon picked up his sword to resume his training. "Your uncle's in the Night's Watch." Jon heard and saw Tyrion walk into the courtyard.
"What you doing back there?" Jon asked as Tyrion took a swig of wine from a pouch.
"Preparing for a night with your family. I've always wanted to see the wall." Tyrion said.
"You're Tyrion Lannister, the Queen's brother." Jon said.
"My greatest accomplishment. And you, you're Ned Stark's bastard aren't you?" Tyrion asked as Jon walked away. "Did I offend you? Sorry. You are a bastard, though?"
"Lord Eddard Stark is my father." Jon said.
"And Lady Stark is not your mother. Making you a bastard. Let me give you some advice, bastard. Never forget what you are. The rest of the world will not. Wear it like armor and it can never be used to hurt you." Tyrion said.
"What the hell do you know about being a bastard?" Jon asked as Tyrion chuckled.
"All dwarves are bastards in their father's eyes." Tyrion said as he walked away.
Jon just growled and swung his sword into the training dummy and struck it hard. "He's right, you know." Jon heard as he turned to see Naruto walk into the courtyard with two cups of ale. "You embrace your weakness; it can never be used against you."
"Easier said than done." Jon said.
"True, I'm not a bastard but I was someone from no noble birth or blood. High lords did look down at me for what I could do but I never let that stop me. And look at me now." Naruto said as he handed one cup of ale to Jon. "Believe me, Jon. There are going to be a lot of people in the world that will want to put you down, so don't let them."
"I'll keep that in mind." Jon said as he took a sip.
"So I saw your uncle Benjen arrive. You still thinking about joining the watch?" Naruto asked.
"I am. There are only so many placed for a bastard. The Wall is one of them." Jon said.
"Well, I was hoping you'd join the rangers. You've got a lot of skill and would make a fine addition to the team." Naruto said as Jon smiled.
"Thank you. But the Wall is where I'm needed." Jon said as Naruto looked at him.
"You might change your mind after you see it for the first time. It's not like the tales you've heard about with the gallant warriors who give up everything to defend the realm. There are some exceptions like your uncle, but not all of them there are like that." Naruto said.
"I stand by my decision. This is my path." Jon said as Naruto nodded.
"Well then, I wish you the best of luck." Naruto said as he and Jon cheered. "You'll see for yourself that the Wall is a very different place. You'll need to be ready to adapt there."
Naruto and Jon talked a bit more and then Naruto retired for the night to his chambers and got some sleep. The next morning, many people were slow and weary from a night of heavy drinking and were hung over. The men were moving slow and doing their best not to keel over and throw up. Naruto got dressed and readied his horse for the hunting trip that Robert wanted to go on. Naruto had some rangers come with him, the ones that weren't horribly hung over which was Tristan, Arthur, Elric, Lyonel, Galahad, Gawain and the Sand Snakes. Naruto let the others rest and recuperate.
The men were readying their horses to join Robert and the other members of the hunting party, which included a very hung over Tyrion who was sitting next to Sandor Clegane.
"Ughhhh…." Tyrion said as he rested his head.
"Rough night, imp?" Sandor asked as he put on his boot.
"If I get through this without squirting from one end or the other, it'll be a miracle." Tyrion said.
"I didn't take you for a hunter." Sandor said.
"I'm the greatest in the land. My spear never misses." Tyrion said.
"It's not hunting if you pay for it." Sandor said as he got up to mount his horse.
Ned was on his horse as Theon walked over and handed him his gloves. Ned put them on as Robert strolled up to him. "You as good with a spear as you use to be?" Robert asked.
"No, but I'm still better than you." Ned said as Robert chuckled.
"I know what I'm putting you through. Thank you for saying yes. I only ask you because I need you. You're a loyal friend, you hear me. A loyal friend. The last one I got." Robert said.
"I hope I serve you well." Ned said.
"And I'll make sure you don't look so fucking grim all the time." Robert said as Ned chuckled and the hunting party left for hunting in the Wolfswood. Naruto and his rangers took point with the King and his party following them. They moved slowly through the Wolfswood on horses but then moved on foot to prevent alerting animals to their presence. They moved on foot and passed trees and bushes as birds flew ahead and little squirrels and rabbits ran on the ground. Naruto had his bow out and ready while others had crossbows and spears.
Robert and Ned followed the rangers as they walked through the woods, looking for any sign of game whether it was deer or boar. Tristan had his bow out and knelt to the ground to look at some prints.
"Tristan?" Naruto asked.
"A stag, fed here not long ago. Something scared it off. A wolf, most likely." Tristan said as he looked at the tracks. "Stag took off this way."
"All right, let's get dinner." Naruto said as his men moved to track the animal as Ned and Robert followed.
"Naruto and his rangers are very capable." Ned said as he and Robert followed them.
"Aye. The boy is a good leader. They've kept the peace within the realm and will make your job easier." Robert said.
They followed the rangers and finally found the stag and Tristan shot it dead. They kept hunting and shot a deer and would have kept going when a raven arrived for Lord Stark and everyone rushed back to Winterfell. Lord Stark received a raven saying that his son, Bran had fallen from a tower and was unconscious. They rode back as fast as they could to check on the boy.
Line Break xxxxx
When they returned, Bran was taken to his room and looked after by Master Luwin. Bran's legs were broken and had to be stitched up and straighten but that wouldn't fix the nerve damage or his spine. Bran was put in a deep sleep and it wasn't certain if he would recover, and if he did, he would never walk again and he may not remember how he fell. Naruto walked into Bran's room and saw Ned, Robert and Catelyn by his bed.
"Lord Stark, Lady Stark, your grace." Naruto said as they looked at him.
"What is it, Naruto?" Robert asked.
"With your graces and Lord Stark's permission. I do have some medicine that might help him heal faster." Naruto said as he took out a pouch of herbs from his belt. "It was an old family recipe. It might aid in Bran's recovery."
"Will it hurt him?" Catelyn asked.
"No. It won't hurt at all." Naruto said as Catelyn and Ned nodded.
"Then please do your best." Ned said as Naruto nodded. Naruto walked over to the fireplace in Bran's room and grabbed a bowl from the shelf. He placed some hot water in the bowl and then added in the blend of herbs. The blend of herbs is actually an Akatsuki secret, but what they don't' know won't hurt them. Naruto stirred the herbs and when Robert, Ned and Catelyn weren't looking, Naruto channeled power from his necklace and spoke an old High Valyrian prayer the Akatsuki often said.
"Es bocas morghalis daor." Naruto said as his hands glowed green and the herb mixture glowed green and then stopped. Naruto had just said, Death will not come today.
Naruto then walked over and knelt down next to Bran's bed. "Keep him steady and open his mouth. He must drink all of it for it to help." Naruto said as they nodded. Ned lightly held onto Bran while Cat slightly opened his mouth. Naruto slowly poured the liquid into Bran's mouth and stopped every now and then to let Bran swallow. It took about 20 minutes for Bran to swallow all of the herb medicine.
"That will help. The herbs have unique qualities that aid in the body's task to repair itself. How well it will work and how much it will repair is unknown. But it should help." Naruto said as Ned and Catelyn smiled.
"Thank you, Naruto. If there is anything you need, just ask." Ned said as Naruto nodded. Naruto then pat Catelyn on the shoulder.
"Bran is tough. He will come back." Naruto said as Catelyn smiled.
It was touch and go for a while but after a night's sleep and Naruto's medicine, he stabilized. Ned and Catelyn stayed by Bran's side the entire night and Robert was there for his friend. The King's party stayed in Winterfell for two more days so Ned could watch over his son.
Naruto and his rangers were in the training courtyards having a training session while Robb and Stark guards and squires were watching. Even some of the King's men were watching. Naruto was training with Elric, Arthur, Lancelot and Omar using his sword and gauntlets against the four of them. Naruto was easily holding his own against four of his rangers. He maneuvered and dodged and kept moving while Elric, Arthur, Lancelot and Omar tried to hit him but Naruto kept blocking and dodging.
Naruto then grabbed Omar and threw him over his shoulder but Omar landed on his feet. He turned around but was greeted with a boot to his face as Naruto spin kicked him and knocked him to the ground. He then blocked swords from Lancelot and Arthur and pushed them back. He then backed away to avoid a sword from Elric but then kicked him in the gut and knocked him to the ground. He then ducked to avoid swords from Lancelot and then did a leg swipe and knocked Lancelot's feet out from under him. He then blocked a sword slash and stab from Arthur, twisted his arm and then threw him over his shoulder and onto the ground.
"Not bad, boys. You're getting better." Naruto said as he helped them up and people clapped and cheered at the display.
"Yeah. It took you longer than before to win the spar." Lancelot said as he sheathed his swords and walked over to get a drink of water.
"True. You are all getting better." Naruto said as he walked over to put his sword down and grab a drink. "All right, rangers! Let's show these Northerners how rangers fight!"
"YEAH!" The rangers shouted as they lined up to instruct and spar with any northern soldier who wanted to learn.
Jon Snow was watching the training session on the second floor of the courtyard, overlooking the courtyard. He took his post up there because Lady Catelyn had told him to make himself scarce while the King and his company was in Winterfell. He guessed that meant not being down there even though Naruto said it was ok. Naruto was watching as Naruto and the rangers were helping the Northern men with their footwork and stances.
"Jon." Jon heard and turned to see Arya walk up to him and stood on a barrel to watch the training session down below.
"Arya, shouldn't you be at your sewing lessons with Septa Mordane?" Jon asked as Arya looked at him.
"I left. I was getting fed up. Septa Mordane can dot on Sansa and Princess Myrcella. I want to be here and watch." Arya said.
"You are a Stark, through and through." Jon joked as Arya chuckled and the two watched the training session as they saw Naruto and the rangers instruct the men on how to fight.
"He's really good." Arya said as she watched Naruto spar with two northern guards. "You think he's better than father?"
"It's hard to say. Father is much older than Naruto. Naruto has his youth. And I've heard that he has training that is very different than Lord Stark's." Jon said as Arya looked at him.
"You don't think all the stories about the rangers are true, do you?" Arya asked.
"You could always ask him. But I think there is some merit to the stories. From what I've seen, he's got the skill and charisma to lead his men effectively in battle." Jon said as they watched the training.
"I like him. He has other women fighting with him. He even said that when I get older, I can join if I want to." Arya said as Jon chuckled.
"Good luck at getting your mother and father to agree with that." Jon said as Arya huffed and they continued to watch the training. The training continued for a few more hours. Naruto gave the rangers the rest of the night off while he took some time to himself. Naruto took a walk through the courtyard of Winterfell and saw Hodor and some of the other stable hands helping with the horses when Naruto felt something.
"Azor Ahai…" Naruto heard a whisper say as Naruto looked around the courtyard and to see who said that.
"Azor Ahai…the time has come…" Naruto heard as he looked around and saw that no one was looking at him.
"Follow me…" Naruto heard as he saw a raven perched on a wooden fence and staring straight at him. Naruto was confused as the raven looked at him, like it was staring him down. The raven then cawed but all Naruto heard was Follow me, again.
The raven then flew away from the courtyard as Naruto decided to follow it. The raven flew through the air and out of the castle of Winterfell and into the surrounding wood area. Naruto kept following it until he reached a secluded forested area with a large weirwood tree and a small pond. This Weirwood tree was a place of worship in the north as the Northern people believed in the old gods unlike the people in the south who believed in the faith of the Seven. Weirwood trees were unique with red leaves and a special sap that when you cut it with a knife, it bled red like blood so the trees had a face carved into them with the sap dripping down like tears of blood. Naruto saw the raven perch on a tree branch of the Weirwood tree and caw at him.
"Your destiny is at hand…" the raven said as Naruto stepped up to the tree and felt his necklace vibrate and the gem begin to glow.
"I got a bad feeling about this." Naruto said as he stepped closer to the tree and he felt drawn to the tree. "Oh, what the hell."
Naruto then touched the tree and his eyes rolled into the back of his head and turned white. He was having a vision, just like the time he first put on his necklace.
Naruto looked around and saw he was in a snow covered forest. Snow fell from the sky and added to the already large amount on the ground. Naruto walked around and heard the snow crunch underneath his boots. He then heard shouting and the clanging of steel and went to investigate. He kept walking until he reached the edge of the forest and into an open field and what he saw could be considered a massacre.
Bodies of soldiers, both knights and peasants littered the field as a large battle seemed to occur, but the causality count seemed to suggest either a massive battle of the 7 kingdoms or several battles one after another. Hundreds of thousands of bodies littered the field with broken spears littering the ground, splintered shields bashed into the ground and swords sticking out of the ground. Naruto walked onto the field and he tried to find whatever ground he could to avoid stepping on a corpse but sometimes it was unavoidable.
He saw the lifeless looks in some of the faces while other faces had looks of horror stuck on their faces from the fate that led to their death. He saw limbs severed, intestines piled on the dirt with crows pecking at them, heads that were fifty feet away from their body and the ground stained red with copious amounts of blood. He looked at the sigils and banners from houses all over the 7 kingdoms. He saw sigils from the North, the Westerlands, Riverlands, Vale, Stormlands and even Dorne. He kept walking when he made his way to a clearing and what he saw confused him. He saw several dead direwolves, with two small ones next to a large one and next to the large one was a large dead fish. Whimpering next to the dead direwolves were three direwolves: one white one, one red one and one brown one.
He then saw several dead lions, four dead stags, several wilted and withered bunches of roses, more dead fish, and several dead snakes. He then heard someone walking up to him so he turned and saw a dark cloaked figure. The figure's face was partially covered by a hood but Naruto saw the mark of a bird on his chest.
"Who are you?! Where am I?!" Naruto shouted as the figure as it chuckled menacingly.
"{Chuckles} They're all dead and they didn't think I could. I rule now." The figure said as it was then covered in ice and broke into pieces. He turned and saw a giant snow and ice storm coming from the forest and heading straight to him, along with a loud and ear deafening cry that sounded like ice breaking. The ice storm raged closer and closer and behind it a huge pillar of dark fire erupted and a large devil burst through the ground. Naruto saw the devil stand up and immediately recognized it as the same devil he saw Azor Ahai fight against.
"I have returned!" The devil shouted as Naruto then saw three dragons fly above him and charge straight at the ice storm and devil.
"What's going on?!" Naruto shouted.
"Your destiny is coming…the fate of the entire world is in your hands…you can change it…fight on…" A voice said to Naruto as the scenery began to change to show a weirwood tree but not at Winterfell. It was in a snow covered forest near the Wall.
"But how? I don't understand. How can I change any of this?!" Naruto shouted as the weirwood tree glowed and part of the ground next to it moved to show a hidden area.
"Travel North and your destiny will await." The voice as a bright light filled the sky and Naruto couldn't see.
Naruto was then pulled out of his vision and was back in front of the weirwood tree. He looked around and saw he was back in Winterfell. He pat himself down and checked he was fine. "How the hell can I prevent a massacre?" Naruto said to himself as he thought about the vision. If that was the fate of the world, he had to stop it. The problem was…he didn't know how.
Line Break xxxxx
The next day, there was a lot of commotion as the King and his royal caravan were leaving for Kings Landing with Ned Stark, some of his guard and his daughters. Stable boys were busy getting the royal carriage for travel and preparing the horses while other servants were readying food and everything else for the trip. While the King's men were preparing to travel south, Naruto had his rangers prepare to travel to the Wall with Benjen Stark and Tyrion Lannister along with Tyrion's personal guard.
Speaking of Tyrion, he was sleeping in the dog kennel after a long night of drinking. He groaned in discomfort as one of the dogs licked his face. He felt groggy and his head hurt a bit but other than that he was ok. He leaned up and shook his head to try and clear his head.
One dog came up and licked his face as Tyrion pet the dog on the head. "Better looking bitches than you're use to, uncle." Tyrion looked and saw his nephew Joffrey with his sworn sword, The Hound. "My mother's been looking for you. We ride for Kings Landing today."
"Before you go, you will call on Lord and Lady Stark and offer your sympathies." Tyrion said as he walked out of the kennel.
"What good will my sympathies do them?" Joffrey asked.
"None, but it is expected of you. Your absence has already been noted." Joffrey said.
"The boy means nothing to me. I can't stand the wailing of women." Joffrey said with a smug smile which was then removed from his face after Tyrion slapped him.
"One word and I hit you again." Tyrion said.
"I'm telling mother." Joffrey said as Tyrion slapped him again.
"Go, tell her. But first you will go to Lord and Lady Stark, and you will fall on your knees in front of them and tell them how sorry you are. That you are at their service and that your prayers are with them. Do you understand?" Tyrion asked.
"You can't." Joffrey said as Tyrion slapped him again.
"Do you understand?" Tyrion asked as Joffrey did a small nod and walked away.
"The prince will remember that, little lord." Sandor said.
"I hope so. If he forgets, be a good dog and remind him." Tyrion said as he left for the dining hall to get some breakfast.
Tyrion walked into the dining hall to servants walking to and from the kitchen with food. "Bread, and two of those little fish. And a mug of dark beer to wash it down. And bacon burnt black." Tyrion said as he walked to the table to join his siblings and nephews for breakfast.
He playfully picked up Tommen and sat in-between him and his brother Jaime as he joined them for breakfast. "Little brother." Jaime said.
"Beloved siblings." Tyrion said as he picked a piece a bacon and took a bite.
"Is Bran going to die?" Mrycella asked.
"Apparently not." Tyrion said as Mrycella and Tommen smiled while Cersei hid a show of concern.
"What do you mean?" Cersei asked.
"The maester says the boy my live." Tyrion said as Jaime and Cersei hid their concern as best they could.
"It's no mercy letting a child linger in such pain." Cersei said.
"True, but it is up for the gods to decide. Although I hear the boy received some very special medicine courtesy of Naruto. Granted, it won't let him walk again, but it no doubt helped him and eased his pain." Tyrion said as he grabbed another piece of bacon. "The charms of the north seem entirely lost on you."
"I still can't believe you're going. It's ridiculous, even for you." Cersei said.
"Where's your sense of wonder? The greatest structure ever built, the intrepid men of the Night's Watch. The wintery bode of the White Walkers." Tyrion said as Tommen and Mrycella laughed.
"Tell me you're not thinking of taking the black?" Jaime asked.
"And go celibate? The whores would go begging from Dorne to Casterly Rock. No, I just want to stand on top of the wall and piss of the edge of the world." Tyrion said as Jaime chuckled.
"Children don't need to hear your filth. Come." Cersei said as she, Mrycella and Tommen left. Tyrion then took Tommen's plate and began eating his food and took a drink of ale.
"Even with all the medicine in the world and if he lives, the boy will be a cripple, a grotesque. Give me a good clean death." Jaime said.
"Speaking for the grotesque, I'd have to disagree. Death is so limited, whereas life…ah life is full of possibilities. And if the boy does wake, I'd be very interested in what he has to say." Tyrion said as Jaime looked at him.
"My dear brother, at times you make me wonder whose side you're on." Jaime said.
"My dear brother, you wound me. You know how much I love my family." Tyrion said as he took another bite of bacon.
Jaime then left in a bit to go get ready for the trip while Tyrion finished his meal. The rest of the Lannister's and the Royal family were getting the last of their possessions ready while Lord Stark's procession was doing the same. Jon Snow was getting ready to travel to the Wall with his Uncle Benjen but he stopped by Arya's room to say goodbye and give her a goodbye gift. He then went to see Bran and bid him farewell, while receiving some glares from Lady Catelyn.
Jon then got his saddle and was readying his horse when Robb walked up to him. "You say goodbye to Bran?" Robb asked as Jon nodded. "He's not going to die. I know it."
"You Starks are hard to kill." Jon said with a smirk.
"My mother?" Robb asked, knowing that his mother didn't like Jon.
"She was very kind." Jon said as he put his saddle on his horse.
"Next time I'll see you, you'll be all in black." Robb said.
"Always was my color." Jon replied.
"Farewell, Snow." Robb said.
"And you, Stark." Jon said as the two brothers hugged goodbye, knowing they wouldn't much of each other, if at all for the rest of their lives. Robb then nodded and left as he strapped his saddle to his horse.
"Ghost." Jon said as he called for his direwolf. He looked around to see Ghost wasn't around. "Ghost!"
"Not a bad name for a direwolf." Jon heard as he saw Naruto ride up to him, with Ghost sat comfortably on his head, given how small he was, he fit just fine.
"Aye, it is." Jon said with a smile.
"Sorry about that. He seemed a bit lonely." Naruto said as he picked Ghost off of his head and handed him to Jon. "Plus, Tyene, Nymeria and Obara have had a blast playing with the pups."
"Not a problem. I'm surprised they've taken such a liking to you." Jon said.
"Oh, not that surprising at all, really. Direwolves are loyal creatures, just like wolves and dogs, but are also smarter. They can smell bad people and kill them if they want to." Naruto said as he saw Jon put Ghost in front of his saddle for the trip. "Although, you might want to wait until he grows a bit."
"Right." Jon said as he tightened a strap. "I'll see you on the road."
"Hurry up, Jon." Naruto said as he left the courtyard on his horse.
The King's Party was ready and left Winterfell on the road back to Kings Landing. Benjen Stark's, Tyrion Lannister's and Naruto's rangers were traveling with the King's Party but would travel down a different road while the King's Party would head south.
When the two parties diverged on the road, the King's Party went south while Benjen, Tyrion and Naruto's party went North. They slowly trotted along while Jon rode up to his father to talk a bit before he left.
"It is a great honor serving in the Night's Watch. The Starks have manned the Wall for thousands of years. You are a Stark. You may not have my name, but you have my blood." Ned said to Jon with a tone of great pride for his son.
"Is my mother alive? Does she know about me? Where I am? Where I'm going?" Jon asked. "Does she care?"
"The next time we see each other, we'll talk about your mother. I promise." Ned said as Jon nodded. Ned smiled and pat Jon on the shoulder before he left to rejoin the King's Party heading south.
Jon then ushered his horse and left to rejoin his uncle Benjen. Both parties moved toward their destination with the King's Party having the most trouble because of the party's large size and because of the numerous wagons and carriages that would need constant repair and maintenance. The wagons and carriages made the riders more comfortable but they weren't meant for such long distances and on harsh terrain. The wheels and gears would break or need fixing making the trip much longer.
After several hours of traveling, Robert had the party stop so he could rest and eat. The party rested and relaxed while Robert was having a meal with Ned in a nice, open field. The sun was shining, there was a steady breeze of cool air and fresh air helped the king and Ned relax after riding for a while.
Ned was eating some bread while Robert was pissing against a tree. When he finished, he walked back to the table and took a sip of wine. "Gods, this is country! I have half a mind to leave them all behind and keep going." Robert said.
"I have half a mind to go with you." Ned replied.
"What do you say? Just you and me on the Kings Road, swords at our sides, a couple of tavern wenches to warm our beds at night." Robert said.
"You should have asked me 20 years ago." Ned said.
"There were wars to fight and women to marry. I never had the chance to be young." Robert said.
"I recall a few chances." Ned replied as Robert joked.
"Oh, there was that one…ah, what was her name? That common girl of yours. Becca, with the great big tits you could bury your face in." Robert said.
"Bessy. She was one of yours." Ned said.
"Bessy. Thank the gods for Bessy…and her tits." Robert said as Ned chuckled. "Yours was Alena? No, you told me once. Meryl? Your bastard's mother."
"Wyla." Ned said as he quickly wanted to change the subject.
"That's it. Must have been a rare wench to make Lord Eddard Stark forget his honor. You never told me what she looked like." Robert said.
"Nor will I." Ned replied as Robert saw the conflicted look Ned had.
"We were at war. None of us knew if we were gonna go back home again. You're too hard on yourself. You always have been. I swear if I weren't your king you would have hit me already." Robert said.
"Worst thing about your coronation, I'll never get to hit you again." Ned joked as Robert chuckled.
"Trust me, that's not the worst thing." Robert said as he pulled out a rolled piece of parchment and handed it to Ned. "There was a rider in the night."
Ned took the parchment and read the message. "Daenerys Targaryen has wed some Dothraki horse lord, what of it? Do we send her a wedding gift?" Ned asked.
"A knife, perhaps. A sharp one and Naruto to go over there and use it." Robert said as he took a drink of ale. "That boy could do it if anyone."
"She's just a young girl, a child." Ned said.
"Soon that young girl will spread her legs and start breeding." Robert said.
"Tell me we're not speaking of this?" Ned asked.
"Oh, it's unspeakable to you?! What her father did to your family, that was unspeakable. What Rhaegar Targaryen did to your sister, the woman I loved. I'll kill every Targaryen I get my hands on." Robert said in anger.
"Well you can't get your hands on this on, can you?" Ned asked.
"This Khal Drogo, it's said that he has a 100,000 men in his horde." Robert said.
"Even a million Dothraki are no threat to the realm, as long as they remain on the other side of the Narrow Sea. They have no ships, Robert." Ned said.
"There are still those in the 7 Kingdoms who call me usurper. The Targaryen boy crosses the sea with a Dothraki army at his back, the scum will join him." Robert said.
"He will not cross. And if by chance he does, we'll throw him back into the sea." Ned said as Robert still seemed angry.
"There's a war coming, Ned. I don't know when or who will be fighting…but it's coming." Robert said.
While King's Robert party was making their way south, Naruto and his party were about halfway to the Wall. Given the party's smaller size and the fact that they didn't have any significant large carriages or wagons, minus the food and weapons wagon Naruto was going to bring to the Wall, they were making great time. They rode for the entire day, stopping briefly for bathroom breaks or a quick bite but were now only another day's ride from the Wall.
Now, the group had settled for the night to make camp in a small covered clearing not far from the road. Naruto and his rangers made camp and huddled around big fires to warm up. They were also wearing thick coats and their sleeping bags or small tents helped them stay warm. Jon and Tyrion's group were near them and around a fire and enjoyed the warmth and relaxed. Jon was sitting near a fire with Ghost laying down next to him. Tyrion Lannister was sitting across from him and reading a book.
Jon looked up and saw his Uncle Benjen move two men to another fire off to the side. Both of them were criminals who had chosen the Wall over death or whatever punishment they would have endured. Benjen moved them to the fire and had them sit.
"Sit. You'll be fed." Benjen said as the two men sat down and the other Night's Watch recruiter untied their hands so they could eat.
Jon looked at the two criminals and Tyrion looked at them as well before continuing his book. "Rapers." Tyrion said as Jon looked at him. "They were given a choice. Castration or the Wall. Most choose the knife. Not impressed by your new brothers? Lovely thing about the Watch, you leave your old family and gain an entirely new one."
Jon looked at the two men and then at Benjen before looking at Tyrion again. "Why do you read so much?" Jon asked.
"Look at me and tell me what you see." Tyrion said as he kept reading.
"Is this a trick?" Jon asked.
"What you see is a dwarf. If I had been born a peasant, they might have left me in the woods to die. Alas, I was born a Lannister of Casterly Rock. Things are expected of me. My father was the Hand of the King for twenty years." Tyrion said.
"Until your brother killed that king." Jon said.
"Yes. Until my brother killed him. Life is full of these little ironies. My sister married the new king, and my repulsive nephew will be king after him. I must do my part for the honor of my house, wouldn't you agree?" Tyrion asked as Jon looked at him. "But how? Well, my brother has a sword and I have my mind. And a mind needs books like a sword needs a wet stone. That's why I read so much, Jon Snow. They say a warrior's best weapon is the mind. You fight with that first and you will win a thousand battles."
"Who said that?" Jon asked as Tyrion looked at him.
"Why our mutual friend Naruto over there." Tyrion said as Jon looked over at Naruto who was sitting by a fire and reading over some old books. "One of the many things I admire about Naruto is that is smart and very clever."
"I'll agree with you on that." Jon said as Tyrion chuckled.
"Naruto has a rather intelligent mind. Not only is he a keen and skilled young warrior, but he has charisma, leadership and intelligence. During my time in Kings Landing, whenever he wasn't busy with the former lord hand or in his brothel, I often found him in the library of all places. Like I said, Jon Snow, a mind needs books to stay sharp." Tyrion said as Jon nodded.
"And you, what's your story bastard?" Tyrion asked.
"Ask me nicely and maybe I'll tell you, dwarf." Jon replied as Tyrion chuckled.
"A bastard boy with nothing to inherit off to join the ancient order of the Night's Watch. Alongside his valiant brothers in arms." Tyrion said as he looked at the two criminals. One of them, Rast was looking at Tyene with eyes of lust. He kept staring when all of a sudden, a throwing star shot through the air and found its way into the tree Rast was leaning against. It was millimeters to the left of his head. Rast began to sweat as Benjen, Tyrion and Jon looked to see it was Naruto.
Naruto still had his head in his book but his arm was out, he threw the throwing star. "Keep staring at her or anyone like that again and that throwing star will move an inch to the right." Naruto said as Rast shut his eyes.
"Like I said, valiant." Tyrion said with a chuckle.
"The Night's Watch protects the realm from…" "Ah yes, against Grumpkins and Snarks and all the other dangers your wet nurse warned you about." Tyrion joked.
"You're a smart boy. You don't believe that nonsense. All of those things are legends." Tyrion said as he looked at Ghost. "Well, most of them are. You should have joined the rangers. You would be paid, get to travel and not have to go celibate."
Tyrion then took out a wine pouch from his pocket and tossed it to Jon. "Drink. Everything is better with some wine in the belly." Tyrion said as Jon took a long swig of the wine.
Line Break xxxxx
The next day, after some food Naruto and his rangers kept on moving to the Wall and they were closing in. Naruto was on his horse and he was getting closer, Naruto could feel the presence of a great power. Eventually, around late in the afternoon, they finally made it to the Wall and it was majestic.
"Welcome." Benjen said to Jon as they saw the massive Wall taller than any building he had seen and stretched beyond the eye could see. They saw a large complex at the bottom of the Wall with a large elevator that went to the top, that was Castle Black.
"Amazing." Nymeria said as many of them had never seen anything like this.
"The edge of the 7 Kingdoms." Naruto said as he could feel the great power the Wall resonated with. Magic that helped to build it and warded the realm against the darkness on the other side.
"All right, let's go." Benjen said as they continued on their path to Castle Black. They made their way to the gate and stopped when a loud horn sounded and the gate opened.
They ushered their horses in as Benjen and his group moved to the side while Naruto, his rangers and Tyrion's group stayed in the main courtyard. Benjen got off his horse and talked to Jeor Mormont, the Lord Commander of the Night's Watch. Mormont then walked over to speak to Naruto and Tyrion. "Ser Naruto, Lord Tyrion, welcome to Castle Black." Commander Mormont said.
"Thank you, Commander Mormont." Naruto said.
"We were made aware of your arrival and we have the entire King's tower set for you and your companions." Mormont said.
"Thank you, Lord Commander." Tyrion said as he and Naruto moved to the side by the stables to leave their horses. Naruto and his rangers got all their gear and placed their horses in the stables.
Naruto looked around and saw that Castle Black was in sorry shape. There were probably no more than 300 men stationed here in one of the three functioning areas of the Wall. He saw the Night's Watch members, many of whom were rapers, murderers or thieves but were being trained as warriors. Mormont had Alliser Thorne get some men on moving the new weapons, armor and food given to them by Naruto and put them to good use.
Naruto and his rangers moved to the King's Tower to settle into their quarters. Naruto and the Sand Snakes walked into their quarters which consisted of a bed large enough for the three of them, a small dresser, desk and a fire pit.
"Well, this place is…nice." Tyene said.
"It's shit." Obara said as they placed their packs down.
"Well considering the state of Castle Black, this is luxury compared to what the brothers of the Night's Watch must have." Naruto said as he put his pack down. He held out his hand and summoned a ball of fire. He then threw it at the fire pit and lit a nice fire that began to heat up the room. "But don't worry. It's only temporary."
"How temporary?" Nymeria asked.
"Probably only a week or two. We'll inspect the Watch, help train some recruits, give them some new training methods, maybe get the schematics for those Wall ballistae, and then we'll head back to King's Landing or wherever we need to go." Naruto said as they nodded.
"Well, after for riding for so long I can use some relaxation." Tyene said as she took off her clothes and laid down on the bed. Naruto chuckled as he removed his sword and took off his clothes to join Tyene.
Lemon Warning
Tyene pulled Naruto down to the bed and kissed him. They kissed each other passionately, letting their tongue wrestle with each other. Naruto flipped himself so he was on the bed and she was on top and kissed her, moving his hands down and grabbed her firm rear. Nymeria and Obara quickly removed their clothes and joined the two on the bed. Nymeria and Obara moved down and took his large manhood in their mouths. The two fought over it as Tyene got up and moved Naruto's head to her womanhood and planted his face there, moaning as Naruto devoured her inner walls.
Obara had Naruto's manhood in her mouth while Nymeria was being pleasured by Naruto's fingers in her womanhood. Naruto continued to ravage Tyene with his mouth until she reached her climax and got off his face. Nymeria then kissed him as Obara got up and inserted his manhood into her and she began riding him.
His large manhood dug further and further into her causing her to lose herself in pleasure. Naruto reached his hands up to grope her breasts. Nymeria got behind her sibling and groped her breasts as well to heighten the pleasure while Tyene was engaged in a tongue duel with Naruto. Obara fell forward as Naruto kept ramming into her over and over and she soon climaxed as Naruto filled her with her seed.
Obara got off Naruto to rest while Naruto had Tyene and Nymeria lay on the bed. Tyene was laying on her back while Nymeria got on top of her and Naruto got plunged into Tyene. He rammed into her hard as she screamed in pleasure while Nymeria moaned as Naruto grabbed her ample rear and began spanking it. He then removed himself from Tyene and then entered Nymeria and rammed into her. He switched up between Tyene and Nymeria as both women kept climaxing until Naruto finally climaxed himself and emptied in Nymeria.
"Well…that was very enjoyable." Tyene said as Naruto kissed her and then kissed Nymeria.
"Let's have the men rest up for the day. We can continue." Naruto said as he entered Tyene again and the two resumed their lovemaking that would continue with Nymeria and Obara and went well into the night.
Lemon End
Line Break xxxxx
A week had passed as the rangers spent their time at Castle Black. They helped replace the old swords and took the old and rusted ones, or any gear that was old and of no use. It was good to melt down for bodkin point arrow heads or to form spare parts of armor or even the small ball points for explosive grapeshot bombs. While they took the old gear, the rangers also helped to fix up some old battlements and fortifications. They also gave Maester Aemon and Commander Mormont the ingredients and designs for explosive bombs: a fair trade that Mormont agreed with.
Currently, Naruto was with Tyrion and the Lord Commander watching over a training session. Some of Naruto's experienced rangers were helping train some of the new recruits while Alliser Thorne was leading the other one, having Jon train with 6 new recruits including Rast and his companion, Pypar and Grenn.
Jon was sparring with Grenn and wiping the floor with him, knocking his sword down, hitting him in the stomach and against the face. "RAGH! My nose!" Grenn shouted as his nose was bleeding.
"If that were a real blade you'd be dead." Thorne said. "Lord Snow grew up in a castle spitting down on the likes of you. Pyp, do you think Ned Stark's bastard bleeds like the rest of us?"
Pyp then stepped forward and swung his sword at Jon who backed away. Jon then smacked Pyp in the stomach and knocked him back. "Next!" Thorne shouted as another recruit swung his sword twice which Jon was easily able to block. Jon then grabbed the boy and tossed him over his shoulder.
Mormont looked at the training session and saw Jon Snow was very good. "The lad's good." Mormont said.
"He should be." Naruto said as Mormont looked at him. "I helped train him."
They then watched as Jon fought Rast and his friend and took them both out. "Well, Lord Snow. It's seems like you're the least useless person here. Go clean yourselves up!" Thorne shouted as he left.
"Seems Thorne is very grouchy." Naruto said.
"Charming man." Tyrion said sarcastically.
"I don't need him to be charming, I need him to turn this bunch of thieves and runaways into men of the Night's Watch." Mormont said.
"And it seems like he's taking his anger for Ned Stark against Jon." Naruto said as Tyrion was confused.
"What do you mean?" Tyrion asked.
"Thorne's house sided with the Targaryen's when Robert rebelled. When the war was over, Robert offered them execution or the Wall. Many of his house chose execution and Thorne is stuck at the Wall, training new recruits." Naruto said.
"Interesting." Tyrion said.
"The training is progressing slowly, but your aid was much appreciated, Ser Naruto." Mormont said as Naruto nodded.
"My pleasure. With the new enhancements made to the armaments here and with those bomb designs, it'll make your job much easier." Naruto said as Mormont nodded. Mormont then took out a rolled piece of parchment.
"A raven came for Ned Stark's son." Mormont said as Tyrion took it and read it and then handed it to Naruto who read it and nodded. He then walked down the steps to go talk to Jon who had walked into the armory to return his practice sword and training vest.
Naruto opened the door and saw Green, Pyp and Rast holding Jon with a knife to his neck. They all turned to see Naruto looking at them. "What do you want? This doesn't concern you!" Grenn said as Naruto chuckled.
"Really?" Naruto said. {Whistle}
Naruto whistled and soon Ghost came up next to him and growled at the men holding his master. He showed his sharp teeth and began to chomp at them. Despite being smaller than the other Direwolves the Starks have, he could easily kill all three of them.
"It seems our little friend here would disagree." They heard as Tyrion walked in. "Perhaps you should let him go. Or you'll soon find the circumstances changed drastically."
Pyp, Rast and Grenn let Jon go as Naruto, Tyrion and Ghost walked up to him. "Everybody knew what this place was and they didn't tell me. No one but you two." Jon said. "My father knew. And he left me to rot at the Wall all the same."
"Grenn's father left him, too. Outside a farmhouse when he was three. Pyp was caught stealing a wheel of cheese. His little sister hadn't eaten in three days. He was given a choice, his right hand or the Wall. I've been asking the Lord Commander about them, fascinating stories." Tyrion said.
"They hate me because I'm better than they are." Jon said.
"You were lucky being trained by a Master-of-arms, Ser Rodrick. I highly doubt any of them have held a real sword before they came here. Perhaps you should change up your approach and view of this place." Naruto said as he and Tyrion left but Naruto stopped and took out the rolled piece of parchment. "A raven came from Winterfell. Bran woke up."
Jon smiled as he read the message and thought about what Naruto and Tyrion had told them. Naruto walked out and stared at the gate that led the Night's Watch to the other side of the Wall for their missions. Naruto stared at him and felt himself being pulled to the other side…to the weirwood tree.
Naruto went back to his room and got a fur coat, and a satchel full filled with some bombs just in case. After he got his stuff, he walked into the mess hall where Commander Mormont was speaking to Maester Aemon.
"Lord Commander, Maester." Naruto said with a bow as Mormont nodded.
"Greetings, Naruto." Aemon said.
"Something we could help you with?" Mormont asked.
"Yes. Do you have a weirwood tree here at Castle Black?" Naruto asked.
"No, not near here. The only weirwood tree we have is on the other side of the wall. A short walk from the gate…for our brothers who hold onto the faith of the old gods. Do you believe in the old gods, Naruto?" Aemon asked.
"To be honest, I'm not sure at all." Naruto replied.
"So why do you need a weirwood tree?" Mormont asked.
"That's some personal business." Naruto said as he opened the door to leave.
"I'll have some rangers escort you." Mormont said.
"Don't worry, I can take care of myself." Naruto said as he left. Naruto walked to the gates and the rangers opened them as Naruto walked through the tunnel to the other side of the Wall. Naruto stepped out from the tunnel and saw the vast snow and wilderness of the land beyond the Wall.
Naruto walked away from the Wall and to the forest where Aemon said the weirwood tree would be located. He kept walking through the forest and could feel his necklace resonating with some kind of power nearby. He kept walking and felt the power grow more powerful and potent and finally reached the weirwood tree, the same one he saw in his vision.
He walked forward and saw that his necklace was glowing bright green, the brightest he has seen it grow since he first put it on. Naruto then placed his hand on the tree and his eyes rolled up and turned white, giving him another vision.
Naruto saw a flurry of images of snow covered mountains, lakes, valleys and trees until he saw a massive weirwood tree. Then the images began to change as he saw himself pulled underneath the tree. He looked around and saw himself standing underneath the tree, with thousands of roots sprawled all over the tunnel he was in. He kept walking forward until he came to a large room where he saw weird looking women like people but looked like they were covered in plants. They looked like plant people. Naruto then turned his attention to the largest concentration of roots to see an old man entangled with the tree.
"Azor Ahai…welcome back to the world." The old man said as Naruto looked at him.
"Where am I? What am I doing here?" Naruto asked.
"Where is not important but it was time we meet. Your destiny is coming to fruition." The old man said.
"How do you know this? I have so many questions." Naruto said.
"And I wish I had the answers, but sadly I do not. I am merely doing my part for your destiny and the destiny of this world." The old man said as a three eyed raven appeared and landed next to the man.
"It was you. You've been calling to me. Back at Winterfell." Naruto said.
"Yes. Fate is coming, Azor Ahai. The darkness is returning…and with it…the great evil you must vanquish again." The old man said.
"But how? I'm just a man. Even with all these powers, how can I possibly stop the darkness." Naruto said as he was worried. "Please, just tell me what to do!"
"Azor Ahai does not need to be told what to do. He does what he feels he must do. And that is something I cannot interfere with. Your future is uncertain, Azor Ahai. More so now than centuries ago. The darkness has grown stronger and his allies will stop at nothing to plunge this world into the darkness you averted." The old man said.
"Please...how can I stop this? The massacre, death, all that destruction you showed me. How can I stop this? I'm just one man." Naruto said.
"You are one man, yes. But you are not alone. It is time for you to meet your old friend again." The old man said as he raised his hand and Naruto felt the tunnel rumble and shake.
"What's going on?! Please!" Naruto shouted.
"Follow your heart, Azor Ahai. Your destiny will be unfolded to you and your true power will be revealed once you accept…who you truly are." The old man said as Naruto was blinded by a bright flash of light and his vision ended.
"AH!" Naruto shouted as he was pulled out of his vision. Naruto stood up and backed away from the tree as he exhaled and ran his hand through his hair.
"PLEASE! HELP ME!" Naruto shouted at the top of his lungs as some nearby birds flew away in fright.
{Caw} Naruto heard as he turned to see a raven perched on a branch of the weirwood tree, cawing. He looked at the bird and then right below the bird to see part of the ground had opened up to reveal a small path. Naruto walked forward and looked down and saw there was a steady slope that looked like it went underneath the tree. Naruto drew a dagger and entered the opened and followed it, making a ball of fire in his free hand to light his path.
Naruto walked through the tunnel and followed to wherever it was supposed to leave. He kept walking for about a minute until he saw the path lead to a small room and in the middle of the room was a rock platform. Naruto walked into the room and looked around to see that the room was empty with no other exit or entrance.
Naruto sheathed his dagger and looked around the cave and saw a small stick. He picked it up and lit the end with his fire to light the room. He stabbed it in the ground and walked up to the rock platform to see something sitting there. It was a giant round block of ice, at least that's what it looked like. He looked at it closer and could see that it had the color and cold feel of ice but the intricate design and ripple of the lines looked like scales. Either it was a very, intricately designed ice sculpture or it was some kind of lizard egg.
"What the hell?" Naruto said out loud as he reached his hand out and touched the egg but it didn't feel cold. It felt warm, very warm like there was a fire inside. He felt his body resonate with the egg, like all his power was in sync with it and even his necklace began to react. His necklace glowed and the gem began to vibrate. Then a small orb of green energy floated out of the gem and floated in front of Naruto and then touched the ice egg. When the energy touched the egg, the egg glowed as the energy was absorbed into the egg and then his necklace stopped glowing. He now felt a deeper connection to the ice egg.
"Is this what he was talking about?" Naruto asked himself as he decided to take it with him.
He took the ice egg and put it in his pack and then left the hidden area and walked back out to the weirwood tree. When Naruto left the hidden area, the ground recovered the opening, so no one knew it was there. "All I have now is more questions than answers." Naruto said as he walked back to Castle Black.
Line Break xxxxx
The next day, Naruto and his rangers were packing up to head back south to King's Landing. They would stop by towns on the way, pick up any new contracts or help people but Naruto figured Robert or Ned would need him for something. The rangers were packing up their horses for the trip while Naruto was talking to the Lord Commander and Maester Aemon in the mess hall.
"Thank you for letting us stay here for so long, Lord Commander. I know it couldn't have been easy." Naruto said.
"Ah, compared to the men here, you were a welcome sight. And you've helped us greatly with the new weapons, fortifications and food. I can never repay you." Mormont said as he shook Naruto's hand.
"It's nothing." Naruto said.
"I know you must have a foul taste in your mouth of my family after what Jorah did." Mormont said as Naruto knew what he meant. Jorah had an expensive wife and took to the selling of captured poachers to slavers to make money. He left the North for Essos to avoid being killed.
"Jorah was an honorable man, just had an unfortunate circumstance." Naruto said. "It's been a pleasure, Commander Mormont."
"The pleasure's been mine." Mormont replied.
"Maester Aemon." Naruto said with a bow.
"Safe travels, young Naruto. You will need them in the future. The cold winds are rising, and winter is coming." Aemon said as Naruto left.
"You have no idea." Naruto said as he left to join his men.
Naruto walked up to his horse and tightened his pack to his saddle when his hand ran across the pouch that was holding the egg. He hadn't shown anybody it since he got it. To be honest, he didn't know what he would say to them should they see it.
"Naruto." Naruto turned to see Jon. "Safe travels."
"And the best of luck to you." Naruto said as he shook Jon's hand and Jon smiled. "Just remember everything I managed to teach you and you'll be fine. Maybe you'll even help train this lot into some ranger quality crows."
"Thank you…for the chance to let me make my choice." Jon said as Naruto smiled.
"There's no thanks necessary. Best of luck, Snow." Naruto said.
"Likewise, Uzumaki." Jon replied as Naruto got on his horse and grabbed his reins. He looked at Tyrion and nodded as Tyrion nodded back.
"One last thing, take good care of Ghost and he'll do the same! HA!" Naruto shouted as he and his men galloped out of Castle Black and were on their way to King's Landing.
They stopped by Winterfell to refill on supplies then made the trek down the King's Road to King's Landing. They would stop to rest at night or at a small town to refill on supplies but was pretty much a straight trip back to King's Landing which only took them a few days at full speed. They arrived in the city and saw it was busy. They rode through the streets as people waved and cheered for them which the rangers soaked in. Lancelot winked at pretty girls and Bors and Dagonet roared to get the people cheering.
Naruto and his rangers eventually made their way near the Red Keep where their housing was located. His rangers tied their horses to the stables and settled in. "All right, men. Settle in. I'm going to Keep. Stay out of trouble." Naruto said as he left for the Red Keep. He walked into the castle and asked a City Watch member to see the King or the Hand. The King was busy but the Hand was having a meeting with the small council in their chambers.
Naruto walked through the castle and into the throne room to see Sansa talking to Septa Mordane about her grandfather and uncle. "My grandfather and uncle were murdered here, weren't they?" Sansa asked as Septa Mordane sighed.
"They were killed on the orders of King Aerys, yes." Mordane said.
"The Mad King." Sansa said.
"Commonly known as the Mad King." Mordane said.
"Why were they killed?" Sansa asked.
"Sansa, you don't need to know this." Mordane asked.
"Why not? It's her history as well." They heard as they turned to see Naruto walked into the room.
"Ser Naruto." Sansa said as she and Septa Mordane bowed their heads.
"No need to do that, and just Naruto, Sansa. Like I've said a dozen times." Naruto said with a chuckle as Sansa chuckled a bit.
"You've returned to the capital." Mordane said.
"Yes, after my time observing the Wall was done I came back. To see if the King has another mission for me." Naruto said as he looked at the throne and then at Sansa. "But while I was away that doesn't mean I wasn't informed of what happened. I'm sorry about Lady, Sansa."
"Thank you." Sansa said.
"Oh, please that direwolf— ""Was a loyal and good friend that Sansa cared about. She didn't have to die, but your father was caught in a hard position. If I had been there, maybe I could have helped." Naruto said as Mordane glared at him.
"Naruto, do you know what happened here?" Sansa asked as Naruto exhaled.
"I do." Naruto replied.
"How could you know? You probably weren't even born then." Mordane said.
"But I know people who were. And they told me what happened all those years ago. From very reliable sources." Naruto said.
"Why were my grandfather and uncle killed?" Sansa asked as Naruto looked at her.
"Are you sure you want to know?" Naruto asked as Sansa seemed unsure.
"Yes." Sansa replied.
"Did your father ever say anything about your aunt Lyanna?" Naruto asked as Sansa nodded.
"A little. But he never really talked about her." Sansa said.
"Probably because it's a very painful memory." Naruto said as he exhaled. "It was years ago during the last year of the Mad King's rule. Prince Rhaegar Targaryen kidnapped your Aunt Lyanna. Your uncle demanded her return but the Mad King had him arrested for treason. Your grandfather then came but he was arrested as well."
"What happened?" Sansa asked as Naruto exhaled.
"The Mad King had them executed for treason. That combined with Lyanna's kidnapping led to Robert's rebellion." Naruto said as he looked at Sansa.
"Your father probably didn't want to tell you because it's a difficult topic to talk about but I felt that you deserved the right to know. You should talk to your father about this someday about his decision. Gods know that life will be difficult in the future. You should treasure each other when you have the chance." Naruto said as he walked to the small council chamber.
He opened the chamber and saw the council seated together except for the King. They were gathered together with Janos Slynt, leader of the City Watch. "Oh, sorry. Didn't know this was a meeting." Naruto said.
"Naruto, welcome back." Ned said.
"Thank you, Lord Stark." Naruto said as he walked up to the council table. "Please continue."
"Sorry, Ser Naruto. But these matters concern the attention of the lords of the Small Council." Slynt said.
"And King Robert decreed that I would be allowed to sit with the Small Council as part of my duties with the Rangers. So please continue." Naruto said as he stood behind Lord Stark.
"As I was saying, the increase in criminal actions is because of the Hand's tournament." Slynt said.
"The King's tournament. I can assure you, the hand wants no part of it." Ned said.
"Call it what you will, Lord Stark sir. The city is packed with people with more coming in every day. Last night we had a tavern riot, a brothel fire, three stabbings and a drunken horse race down the streets of sisters." Slynt said.
"Dreadful." Varys said.
"If you can't keep the King's peace, perhaps the City Watch should be led by the Rangers instead." Renly said.
"I need more men. They are spread too thin." Slynt said.
"Then that'll be solved easily. Instead of having the City Watch spread evenly throughout the city, have more of them stationed in the areas of the city where most of the incidents have taken place. And since I'm back, I'll have my rangers man posts and patrol the city and keep the peace. No matter who commits these crimes, whether it's a low born or high born, there will be consequences." Naruto said as Slynt nodded.
"Thank you, Ser Naruto." Slynt said as he left the council chambers.
"Thank you, Naruto. As soon as this is over the better." Ned said.
"The realm prospers from such events, my lord. They give the greater a chance at glory and the lowly, a reprieve from their troubles." Varys said.
"Every inn in the city is full and the whores are walking bow-legged." Baelish said.
"And I'm sure you'll use those funds to help pay for the tournament." Naruto said as Baelish glared at him.
"Of course." Baelish responded.
"Now, if there's nothing else my lords." Ned said as everyone got up to leave. "Naruto, until Robert or I give you a mission, patrol the city and keep the peace. The tournament shall only last two more days."
"Of course." Naruto said as he left to inform his men.
Line Break xxxxx
Naruto left the small council chamber and was on his way out of the Red Keep when he passed by a training room. The doors were open and Naruto saw Syrio training with Arya Stark. Naruto walked in to see Syrio working with Arya on her footwork and her grip. He saw her lunge forward and swing at Syrio but Syrio easily blocked and parried every move and then tripped her to her feet.
"Arya, child. Remember, the water dancer's strength is in the ground that is beneath their feet. Always keep a sure footing." Syrio said as he helped Arya up.
"Perhaps you should have her work on her balance next." They heard as they turned their heads and saw Naruto by the door.
"Naruto." Arya said as Naruto smiled.
"Excellent suggestion, my student." Syrio said.
"Naruto, you trained with Syrio?" Arya asked.
"I did. I trained with him for two years and I pass his teachings to my rangers. I'm glad that your father sought Syrio to teach you. For someone as small as you are, Water Dancing is the perfect technique." Naruto said as Arya nodded.
"Naruto, do you think you could beat Syrio in a fight?" Arya asked as Syrio and Naruto chuckled.
"I'm not sure I can answer that question. Syrio has a lifetime of experience and I only learned from him for two years. Besides, training to defend yourself or win fights are two very different things." Naruto said.
"He is correct, Arya child. I am teaching you to defend yourself. A Water Dancer fights only to protect himself. True fighters don't fight for riches or glory, but for greater causes." Syrio said as Arya nodded.
"Good, now we will train your balance and your feet. A Water Dancer should have the perfect balance to stand one toe for hours. Today, I want you to go to the top of a set of stairs and balance on one foot." Syrio said.
"But what if I fall?" Arya asked.
"Every hurt is a lesson, and every lesson makes you better." Syrio said as Arya nodded. "Naruto, could you perhaps demonstrate the benefits this will have."
"Sure." Naruto said as he removed his belt and sword.
"When you have mastered the ground beneath your feet, your feet will know what to do." Syrio said as he swung his sword at Naruto who expertly dodged and moved his feet in sync. Syrio lunged, swiped and slashed with the practice sword and Naruto expertly ducked, dodged and maneuvered as his feet glided around the floor with perfect precision and Naruto stayed perfectly balanced.
"Wow." Arya said.
"A warrior's greatest strength and his biggest weakness will be his feet. Practice, Arya child." Syrio said as Arya nodded and left.
"How's she doing?" Naruto asked.
"Progressing slowly but she has skill and determination." Syrio said as Naruto nodded.
"Good. Look out for her. The Stark's aren't use to Kings Landing or the South, one wrong move and she'll be in trouble." Naruto said as Syrio nodded.
"Of course. And you, my student. How are you?" Syrio asked.
"Been better. Just a lot to think about." Naruto said as Syrio nodded.
"If you ever need my assistance, just ask." Syrio said as Naruto nodded. Naruto grabbed his stuff to leave but then turned to Syrio.
"Syrio, do you carry a knife or dagger with you at all when you're here?" Naruto asked.
"No." Syrio said.
"I think you should start to. I've got a gut feeling that things in this city will get crazy and a wooden sword will only go so far." Naruto said as Syrio nodded.
Naruto then left the Red Keep and told his men of their jobs over the next two days of the tournament. He had them go in groups of ten and patrol the city and to stop any crime and arrest anyone who committed one, whether they were highborn or not. They had full authority to arrest people.
After that, Naruto grabbed his sack with the strange ice egg and left for his brothel to talk to Achilles. Maybe, Achilles had some answers that could answer the questions Naruto had.
Naruto walked into the brothel and to his private room to see Achilles talking to one of the Akatsuki's main battle engineers, Henry Green. A member who originally came from Essos and split his time between there and Westeros. He was one of the smartest members of the order, a tactical genius, smith, armorer and war engineer. He helped fashion many of the orders tactical bombs, armor and weapons.
"Naruto, welcome back." Achilles said as Henry bowed.
"My lord." Henry said as Naruto nodded.
"Hello, Henry. I hope I'm not interrupting anything." Naruto said.
"Oh no. I was just coming to Achilles with the latest schematics to my new battle weapons." Henry said as Naruto walked over and looked at the schematics.
"Interesting. What kind of weapon is this?" Naruto asked.
"Something I think you'll like. I designed this after an accident in my forge in Essos but I think I managed to bypass the flaws I had. I call it a cannon." Henry said as he showed them the schematics for a long metal tube that was secured to a mounted wheel stand and could be used for castle sieges or for fighting at sea.
"Cannon. Interesting." Achilles said.
"Essentially, I designed a large circular chamber. The end is filled with our explosive powder for our bombs but this type is far more explosive. Once the powder is placed, a large metal ball is then placed into the chamber. When the powder is lit, the force of the explosion propels the ball through the air and smashes into any target in the path of the cannon. My initial tests show that the cannon has a far greater range than a ballista or trebuchet." Henry said as Naruto was amazed.
"Wow. That's impressive. And the collection of all that powder would make this cannon able to smash into a castle wall." Naruto said.
"Yes. In my initial tests, it was able to smash through bricks similar to a castle wall. But I need more testing." Henry said.
"How many of these cannons do you have?" Achilles asked.
"Only one so far, I'm afraid. Between all the time it took to find the right metal for the chamber that was strong enough to withstand the force of the explosion and all my tests, I've only crafted one ready." Henry said.
"That's fine. Take your time. These cannons could prove handy in the future and we wouldn't want them exploding on us. Make them right." Naruto said as Henry nodded. "And I got the schematics for the ballistae from the Wall. Apparently, those ballistae are supposed to be the best. Perhaps you could alter the design for us."
"Of course. Any suggestions?" Henry asked.
"I don't know. Maybe you could figure out how to make them fire faster." Naruto said as Henry got an idea.
"Ohh, I'll get started right away." Henry said as he left to go do some calculations.
"Achilles, what do our spies in Essos report?" Naruto asked.
"They've continued to follow Daenerys Targaryen but that is proving difficult with the massive Khalassar she rides with and the fact that she is constantly protected and watched. They've now landed in Vaes Dothrak and are settled there for the time being." Achilles said.
"Ok. Has there been any word or letter spoken about the Dothraki moving across the Narrow Sea?" Naruto asked.
"None. Khal Drogo seems to have no interests in ships, despite the deal he made with Viserys Targaryen." Achilles said.
"Ok, that's good for now. Send word to our spies to keep watch over Daenerys and to keep her from harm. If they have to show themselves to protect her, fine. If that happens, have them try to earn her trust. That could help lay the groundwork for the future." Naruto said.
"Of course. So Naruto, how was your trip to the Wall?" Achilles asked.
"Good. Productive. Although, the rising group of Wildlings fleeing south and the rising cold winds is disturbing. The master and lord commander say that the Wildlings and deserters say they've seen the White Walkers." Naruto said.
"We've been getting troubling reports as well. Omens and signs point to the long winter and the return of the darkness. It seems your destiny will be here sooner than you would like." Achilles said.
"Yeah, and I'm not even sure if I'm ready." Naruto said as he exhaled. "And something else happened."
"What?" Achilles asked.
"While I was in Winterfell…I was receiving visions and when I touched the weirwood tree, someone was calling to me." Naruto said.
"Really?" Achilles asked.
"I got visions from an old man. He controlled a three-eyed raven and he seemed to live underneath a great weirwood tree." Naruto said as Achilles thought for a moment.
"It's possible it was a representation of the old gods in the North. Or the gods in general and they were trying to reach out to you." Achilles said.
"You think that's possible?" Naruto asked.
"If the things I've seen you do are any indication, nothing is impossible." Achilles said.
"Fair enough." Naruto said as he had to agree with him. "Well, he didn't give me any advice only a warning of what could happen in the future. And he showed me something I think you should see."
Naruto took his pack and placed it on a table and took out the ice egg as Achilles looked at it. "What on earth?" Achilles asked.
"I know. I had the same reaction when I first saw it. He said that it was time I meet an old friend." Naruto said as Achilles went to the old book about Azor Ahai. "What is it?"
"I remember an old passage of the book. It was said that Azor Ahai had a companion he called upon when he needed help. A companion as loyal as a trusted brother yet powerful to aid Azor Ahai in the fight to repel the Darkness." Achilles read from the small passage.
"I don't suppose it says anything about what the companion looks like or what it is?" Naruto asked.
"I'm afraid not. What else did the vision tell you?" Achilles asked.
"To follow my heart. That I didn't need to be told what to do, I would know what to do." Naruto said as Achilles nodded.
"What I have been telling you all along. You do not need to be told what path to follow. You've followed your own so far." Achilles said. "Anything else?"
"That my destiny will be unfolded to me and my true powers will arise once I accept who I truly am. But haven't I already done that?" Naruto asked.
"Have you?" Achilles asked. "It's true that you have accepted your powers, lead the Akatsuki and seek to ensure the safety of the realm. But can you say without a doubt, you have accepted your destiny as Azor Ahai? Do you proudly declare your past life…and your roll in the survival of the world?"
"It's a bit more complicated than that." Naruto said as Achilles nodded.
"I am not arguing or shaming you for your actions, Naruto. I would have done the same in your position. But perhaps, this ice will remain dormant as will the true extent of your powers…until you fully realize who you are." Achilles said as he pat Naruto on the shoulder. "Some food for thought." Achilles then left Naruto to think about what he had just said.
Line Break xxxxx
The next day, Naruto and his rangers were patrolling the city with the City Watch and keeping the peace. Many of the City Watch members, especially the ones that respected Naruto or that Naruto had helped train were happy to have him back in the city. Some even had thoughts of leaving the City Watch to join the rangers, gods know the pay was better and it had other benefits. Granted the Lannister Loyalists in the City Watch paid Naruto no mind at all, they just did their job.
While Naruto and his rangers were doing their jobs, Ned Stark was walking through the gardens of the Red Keep with Petyr Baelish, Master of Coin. Ned was having some trouble as he was trying to figure out what Jon Arryn was doing the moments before his death and if those moments were the cause. After Catelyn received that raven from her sister saying that the Lannister's killed Jon, Ned needed to make sure.
"I hear you're reading a boring book." Baelish said as Ned snorted.
"Pycelle talks to much." Ned replied.
"Oh, he never stops. Do you know Ser Hugh of the Vale?" Baelish asked as Ned shook his head no. "Not surprising. Until recently he was only a squire. Jon Arryn's squire. He was knighted almost immediately after his master's untimely death."
"Knighted for what?" Ned asked as Baelish shrugged his shoulders. "Why are you telling me this?"
"I promised Cat that I would help you." Baelish said.
"Where is Ser Hugh?" Ned asked. "I wish to speak to him."
"That would be a bad idea. Do you see that boy there?" Baelish asked as he saw a boy playing in the gardens. "One of Varys's little birds. The Spider has taken a great interest in your comings and goings."
"Now look there." Baelish said as Ned saw an old man gardening. "That one belongs to the Queen. And do you see that Septa pretending to read her book?"
"Varys or the Queen?" Ned asked.
"No. She's one of mine." Baelish said with a smirk. "Is there someone in your service that you trust completely?"
"Yes." Ned replied.
"The wiser answer was no, my lord. Get a message to this paragon of yours, discretely. Send him to question Ser Hugh. After that, you might want him to visit a certain armorer in the city. He lives in a large house at the top of the street of Steel." Baelish said.
"Why?" Ned asked.
"I have my observers, as I said. And it's possible that they saw Lord Arryn visit this armorer several times in the weeks before his death." Baelish said.
"Lord Baelish. Perhaps I was wrong to mistrust you." Ned said.
"Mistrust in me was the wisest thing you've done since you've climbed off your horse." Baelish said as he left.
Ned has his best man, Jory go talk to Ser Hugh but Hugh refused to talk to him because he was a knight and he didn't have to. He would go see Lord Stark when he wanted to. Ned then went to go see the armorer and figured out what Jon had discovered, the location of one of Robert's bastards. After that, Ned stayed in the tower of the hand to do research and to go over what he had just learned. Ned planned to talk to Ser Hugh, but unfortunately at the jousting tournament, Ser Hugh was killed in his match with the Mountain. The lance found its way to his throat and the broken shards killed him.
Naruto had taken a break from his patrol and was in his headquarters, going over some of the information he had gotten from Essos. Messages from spies and informants but there was also a lot of business related stuff. At first, the Akatsuki had very few ties to other organization like the House of Black and White. So to aid the group, one of Naruto's first steps as their new leader was to open up the reach of the Akatsuki by getting involved in businesses. They made contracts and deals with trade groups and merchant guilds for protection and transport using the ships in the Akatsuki fleet…well more 4 ships so it wasn't really a flee but the ships were bigger and faster than any regular war or commercial ship.
Naruto also got invested in businesses all across Westeros and Essos from food production and distribution, mining operations and even commerce. After a few years, the Akatsuki had a wider reach and resources which helped its operations and its agents on both continents. It also abled them collect resources for weapons, armor, raw material for bombs and Henry Green had more ships being constructed in Essos.
Speaking of Essos, on the other continent was Daenerys Targaryen. One of the two last living members of House Targaryen, the original ruling house that ruled the 7 Kingdoms of Westeros. Daenerys had in her hut with her handmaiden Irri and had come to grow into her role as Khalessi.
She was enjoying some time alone when all of a sudden Doreah, her other handmaiden was thrown into her hut by Viserys. Doreah looked a little bruised and beaten and Viserys looked angry.
"You send this whore to give me commands?! I should have sent you back her head!" Viserys shouted.
"Forgive me, Khalessi." Doreah said.
"Hush now. It's all right. Irri, take her and leave us." Daenerys said as Irri took Doreah and left. "Why did you hit her?"
"How many times do I have to tell you? You do not command me!" Viserys shouted.
"I wasn't commanding you. I was inviting you to supper." Daenerys said as Viserys looked around and saw new clothes and jewelry.
"What's this?" Viserys asked.
"It's a gift. I had it made for you." Daenerys said.
"Dothraki rags?! You're going to dress me, now?! This stinks of manure, all of it!" Viserys shouted as he threw the clothes and a necklace at her.
"Stop it." Daenerys said to him.
"You would turn me into one of them, wouldn't you? What are you going to do next? Braid my hair?" Viserys asked.
"You've no right to a braid, you've won no victories yet." Daenerys said.
"You do not talk back to me." Viserys said as he slapped her to the ground and got on top of her. "Illyrio isn't here to protect you now. You are a horse lord's slut and now you've awoken the dragon!"
Before Viserys could hit her, Daenerys grabbed the necklace he threw and hit him in the face and knocked him off. Daenerys then got up and Viserys groaned in pain.
"I am a Khalessi of the Dothraki! I am the wife of the Great Khal and I carry his son inside me! The next time you raise a hand to me, will be the last time you have hands!" Daenerys warned him as she left her hut.
Hours had passed and Daenerys didn't see her brother after the incident. She soon realized what she did as she and Jorah were in her hut talking about the incident.
"I hit him. I hit the dragon." Daenerys said.
"Your brother Rhaegar was the last dragon. Viserys is less than the shadow of the same." Jorah replied.
"He is still the true king." Daenerys said.
"The truth now? Do you really want to see your brother sitting on the Iron Throne?" Jorah asked.
"No." She replied. "But the common people are waiting for him. Illyrio said they are sewing dragon banners and waiting for his return."
"The common people pray for rain, health and a summer that never ends. They don't care what games the High Lords play." Jorah said.
"What do you pray for, Ser Jorah?" Daenerys asked.
"Home." Jorah replied.
"I pray for home too. My brother will never take back the 7 kingdoms. He couldn't lead an army even if my husband gave him one. He'll never be king." Daenerys said.
"Perhaps a Queen shall." Jorah said as he looked at her.
"Do you think that's possible?" Daenerys asked.
"Anything is." Jorah said as Daenerys nodded.
End of Chapter 3
Hoped you guys like the chapter. Again, not a lot happened since it finished up the prologue part and moved into the first four episodes of Season 1 of the show. Again, the story will follow the plot of the show with slight alterations but nothing too drastic as I want to keep some of the cannon from the TV show to keep the conflict up.
Naruto has his rangers and they'll continue to grow as he will soon be faced with political back stabbing and war that threatens to destroy the entire kingdom and he will have to stop it.
I hoped you guys like the change up to the Azor Ahai prophecy and I've also added in other things from the lore of A Song of Ice and Fire as well as characters that the show hasn't show yet.
In terms of clear enemies for Naruto, it would be the White Walkers. When it comes to people, it isn't that simple. Naruto's main goal is the peace and protection of the 7 Kingdoms so he won't be aligned with one particular group or house. For example, Catelyn Stark is a good person but Naruto doesn't view her like that especially with her recent actions. Her kidnapping of Tyrion and blind trust of Baelish sparked a retaliation that led to innocent people in Riverrun getting butchered and Naruto blames her for that as she is one of the main causes for the coming war. Are Renly and Stannis bad guys, not exactly but their rebellion brings the realm to war and Naruto knows thousands of people will suffer because of their stupid pissing contest for the crown. Although there are some characters that Naruto doesn't trust at all, like Baelish and Cersei. Tyrion, Tywin, Jaime and Varys are all different stories.
Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto or Game of Thrones. Both belong to their respective owners, I'm just a big fan.
