(Joffrey/Margaery Tyrell, Jon/OC, Viserys/OC, featuring Luna and a new character)
How Joffrey Redeem His Place Back in Court – Part 1
Joffrey sat in his room, staring to nothingness. For many moons, he thought about his life. He was not the son of Robert Baratheon, he was the byproduct of his mother and uncle's incest relationship, including Myrcella and Tommen. How disgusting, he thought. He understood the Targaryen, but when it had happened to yourself, it doesn't actually bode you well, right?
He saw how Westeros was growing well under the rule of King Jon Snow of House Targaryen, alongside his queen, Kia Eis of Ice Nation, who used to be Joffrey's queen until he realized that she was better off to Jon because at that time, he was the old Joffrey, cruel, cold-hearted and selfish. Next to Jon, was his uncle, Prince Viserys Targaryen III with his wife, the XII Rounin, Lara-Ann Rae and Luna Xero, King Jon's godmother and the XIII Rounin; the Rare Gem Amethyst. He wanted to help, but how in the world people would accept him after all he had done?
He paced around. He wanted to return to Westeros, but he would need to redeem himself. He wanted to redeem the House of Lannister just as how Tyrion is currently doing by being the strategist in King Jon's army. By birth, he is Joffrey Baratheon, but by rights, he is to be named Joffrey Hill for he is a bastard born. He didn't want to be confined here like a criminal when he had done nothing wrong. His mother and uncle…, or father should be blamed, especially his mother. She had created a monster within him – a monster Joffrey wished to eliminate.
The Casterly Rock is now under his uncle – Lord Tyrion Lannister's command. Even though he was born in a wedlock, he was considered a bastard because of he's dwarf and he had caused his mother's death. Joffrey's grandfather, Tywin had despised his youngest son, though Jaime had loved Tyrion as a brother should. Joffrey wanted to change. He didn't want to be the old him – the one that ran back under his mother's skirts when trouble arise and a big bully.
One day, his uncle Lord Tyrion returned to Casterly Rock on a monthly visit, to see how Westerlands were doing. Joffrey took the chance and went to see him at the library. Before he entered, the young Tommen grabbed his tunic. Lately, he had been nice to his siblings, though Myrcella and Tommen thought it was odd, but after a while, they had accepted the change in Joffrey. "Are you going away, Joff?", asked Tommen. "Maybe I will or maybe I won't. That decision will be made by our uncle", said Joffrey. "If you are going, can you bring me and Cella with you? I don't want to stay here", said Tommen.
"If I bring the two of you, then who will stay as the representative of House Lannister?", said Joffrey. "But I hate it here! I miss King's Landing! I'm not guilty of anything, so why should I stay in this prison?!", said Tommen, angrily. For a 10 year old, he can think maturely than others at his age. "I'll try to talk to uncle and if he agrees, he'll take the three of us, but I will not make any promises", said Joffrey. Tommen sighed and agreed before leaving to his room.
Joffrey knocked and heard Tyrion gave permission to enter. "Joffrey, my nephew, I haven't seen you in a while", said Tyrion. "My Lord Tyrion", said Joffrey as he curtsied to his uncle. "Bah, push over all courtesies and formalities. This is not King's Landing", said Tyrion, "So, I hear you come with a wish. Let's hear it out". "I…, I want to leave Casterly Rock", said Joffrey. Tyrion straightened his back from the cushion of his chair and stared at Joffrey. After a silent moment, Tyrion asked, "Why in the name of seven gods would you want to leave? Where would you go, dear nephew?". "I want to go to King's Landing. I want to prove myself. I want to change. I don't want to stay here like a convict. I want to be free", said Joffrey.
"Do you think you will be free once you arrive in King's Landings? You do know your mother", said Tyrion. "I don't care, uncle! I will defend myself, though I'm not much good in swords. I don't want to be stuck here. I want to prove myself worthy! King Jon himself said I could", said Joffrey. "Yes, I know that. His Grace did discussed with me of this matter", said Tyrion. Joffrey thought it was hope. "Personally, I told him you can return once you have changed, but how do I know that you are no longer the old Joffrey? The one that I used to slap for being such an imcompetent, insolent little boy?", asked Tyrion. "I'll do anything…. Anything that can get me out of this place!", said Joffrey, with confidence.
"Alright then, he'll head out in a week. Prepare whatever that it is necessary", said Tyrion. Before he could resume his duty into looking at the Westerland's progress, Joffrey made another request. "Could I take my siblings with me? I think they don't deserve to be punished as well", asked Joffrey. Tyrion thought for a while before nodding. He could sense the slight change because old Joffrey was usually selfish, unlike the one that is standing in front of him. "Thank you, uncle. Thank you so much!", said Joffrey before leaving the library.
Tommen and Myrcella beamed with happiness when they heard the news. Next week, Joffrey was already on top of his horse when Jaime Lannister came out. Tyrion acknowledge his brother's presence and asked, "Where's my sister?". "She refused to leave her room. She said she is not feeling well", said Jaime. Joffrey and Cersei had a row last night. She had called him a traitor for leaving to King's Landing with Tyrion, but Joffrey retaliated back, "YOU WERE THE TRAITOR! YOU BETRAYED YOUR KING! FOR WHAT?! YOU MADE ME A MONSTER! I have all rights to live how I want to and this is my decision whether you like it or not. I will swear my fealty to both Westeros and Winterfell, no longer to you. I will clean all your sins and purify House Lannister. I will leave for my own sake; for Myrcella and Tommen's sakes". Joffrey will never regret his decision.
Jaime approached his son, but Joffrey pretended to not notice. "I know I have wronged you in so many ways, but know that I love you. You are my son, though I wish it was not this way. I love you, Joffrey, as I love Myrcella and Tommen. Here…", said Jaime as he placed a sword at Joffrey's saddle, "I had this made special for you. It's light and perfect for your height and build. I don't expect you to love me back, but all I ask is for you to be true to yourself". Joffrey turned to Jaime and nodded. "I will…, father", said Joffrey. Jaime smiled and waved them off as Tyrion, Joffrey, Myrcella and Tommen left for King's Landing.
(Meanwhile)
Viserys was waking up from his nap with little Ella when Lara came in with a news. "Did you hear, my love, that Lord Tyrion is bringing his nephews and niece along to live here?", said Lara as she sat next to Viserys. Lara is with child and expected to give birth within two moons. "One of them is Joffrey, the one thought to be the Usurper's son, but instead was the incestuous child of the queen and her twin, right?", asked Viserys and Lara nodded. "Jon did say about wanting the House Lannister to redeem themselves", said Viserys. "Perhaps they will", said Lara.
That evening, as Lara, Ella and Kia, who recently gave birth to her first son, Arial Rickard Snow, have their little tea party, Jon and Viserys sat at the council room. After the council left the two of them, Viserys asked his nephew, "Do you think Joffrey Baratheon should be forgiven and given a redemption?". "Perhaps, if he proves himself worthy", said Jon, "Do you think he shouldn't be given a second chance?". Jon knew Viserys still hold a grudge because Jaime was the reason that House Targaryen fall at the first place.
"He's the son of Kingslayer, the man who murdered my father, your father and you half-siblings and my mother. If you're wondering if I'm worried, I'm EXTREMELY worry", said Viserys. Jon chuckled and said, "Relax, uncle. He's unlike Kingslayer and perhaps with our guidance, he'll change for the better. If not, you know it is punishable by death for traitors". "If he does commit treason, I will burn him alive", said Viserys. "Until then, I will see if he has made some changes", said Jon.
After a few days, Tyrion and the entourage arrived. Tyrion walked to the Iron Throne with Joffrey, Myrcella and Tommen at his back. "Lord Tyrion, I presumed The Westerland are faring well?", said Jon. "All's well as always, Your Grace", said Tyrion as he curtsied a bow, "Allow me to introduce my nephews and niece – Joffrey Hill, Myrcella Hill and Tommen Hill". "Hill?", said Viserys, curiously. "Bastards bear the name Hill in The Westerland, Your Grace", said Joffrey, head bowed down. He was ashamed of his status. Being a bastard is one thing, but being a product of an incestuous relationship is another.
"Welcome to King's Landing then. I'm sure Lord Tyrion will find some work for you to do, Joff. As for Myrcella, Queen Kia will be happy to have a new handmaiden. Tommen, I believe the library here at the Red Keep will be better than at Casterly Rock", said Jon. "I will serve and do as I told", said Joffrey. "A handmaiden, Your Grace? Don't you think I'm a little bit young?", asked Myrcella. "Oh nonsense, my dear", said Kia as she held little Arial in her arms, "Besides, you'll learn a thing or two and I do wish for you to be welcomed. Can't put you at the stables or with the master-of-arms now can we?". Myrcella beamed a smile and gave a polite bow to the queen.
As the ladies headed out to the garden for tea, Tommen headed out with the master for a lesson while Joffrey and Tyrion rode out with Viserys, Jon and the Kingsguard to oversee the trading. Tyrion had explained about politics, trading and so on their way to King's Landing. Joffrey haven't paid much attention to other things, but trading caught his attention. "Lord Tyrion, the reports on Westeros trading this month, if you please?", asked Jon. Tyrion began explaining with Joffrey listening and paid attention.
"What say you, Lord Hill?", asked Viserys to Joffrey. Jon eyed his uncle before rolling his eyes. "The trading is growing well under Lord Tyrion's watch and will continue to grow well, Your Grace", said Joffrey. "Should we make any improvement, Joff?", asked Tyrion. He wanted to test Joffrey and see if any of his lectures were worth it. "Maybe with slightly lower tax on certain aspects, such as foods or cloth, perhaps we could make more out of it and have greater outcome?", said Joffrey, hoping he didn't say anything wrong.
Jon and Viserys looked at Joffrey; then looked at each other. "It could work", said Viserys as he rubbed his stubble chin. "Lord Tyrion, could you see to Joffrey's statement and make whatever arrangement you deem it is necessary", Jon ordered. "Absolutely, Your Grace", said Tyrion. He held out his thumb up, signaling a good job to Joffrey and the young boy smiled with triumph.
That night, as the council, Jon, Viserys, Tyrion and Joffrey were having a discussion, Ser Lancel Lannister burst in. "What is the meaning of this, Lannister?!", yelled Viserys, but Jon held a hand to his uncle's shoulder to calm him down. "I request a private audience with Your Graces and Lord Tyrion. I have something important to discuss…, regarding Casterly Rock", said Ser Lancel.
Jon dismissed the council, except for Joffrey. "Speak, Ser Lancel", said Jon. "I was wandering in the castle of Casterly Rock when I overheard a disturbing conversation of Cersei and Tywin", said Ser Lancel. Tywin was stripped of his title and all was given to Tyrion. "What disturbing things that my father and sister were discussing about, dear cousin?", asked Tyrion. "About overthrowing King Jon from the Iron Throne", said Ser Lancel. "How dare they?! Is it not better that my nephew had spared their lives and this is how they repay him?!", said Viserys, angrily.
"That's why she called me a traitor…", said Joffrey. "Why would you be a traitor, Joffrey? Unless…", said Tyrion as he thought for a while. "Unless they want to use you to get to the Iron Throne", said Jon. Joffrey covered his face with his hands and sighed. "Was my brother involved?", asked Tyrion. "No, cousin, Jaime is making the habit of spending time at the local tavern every night even when you father forbid him", said Ser Lancel.
"But we don't have enough evidence to convict them", said Tyrion, "I know my sister and she is good in this game". "I'll go", said Joffrey. Everyone looked at him curiously. "I'll go back to Casterly Rock and gather the evidence that you need. Give me time, Your Grace", said Joffrey. "And how do we know you will not double cross us?", asked Viserys. "Send someone you trust. Someone you know that can get anything done should I decide to betray you", said Joffrey. Jon thought for a moment before whispering at Ser Lancel. Ser Lancel nodded and left the room.
Later, Ser Lancel came back with a knight with a hound helm. A knight Joffrey knew so well. "Joff, I'm sure you know who this is?", asked Jon. "I do, Your Grace and quite frankly, I wasn't nice to him back then", said Joffrey. "Lord Hill, may I present Ser Sandor Clegane, one of the members of my Kingsguard. Ser Sandor, this is Joffrey Hill", said Jon, re-introducing the two of them. Ser Sandor gave a courtesy bow and said, "Your Grace summon me?". "I have given Joffrey a task. Tywin and Cersei Lannister have made plans to overthrow me from my seat at Iron Throne. Joffrey will go to quietly collect the evidences of their upcoming betrayal. Should he decide to betray me, your job is to eliminate him and Cersei and Tywin. Can you do that?", said Jon. "You can count on me, Your Grace", said Ser Sandor.
"Ser Lancel, I ask for two men. Where's the other one?", asked Jon. "He was writing a letter to Lady Xero. He said he will be here in a moment", said Ser Lancel. Then, black mist came swirling around before it revealed a young man, a year or two older than Joffrey. "Joff, I would like you to meet Serafiem or Seraf for short. He's Lady Luna's son", said Jon. "I didn't know Lady Luna have a son", said Joffrey. "I was kept hidden at Ice for my safety and I will only travel to Winterfell from time to time. Water dragons have this…, so-called 'sacred power' where whatever water we touch can heal anything in the world. Water dragons are very rare to be found and it is said that they have extinct", said Seraf. "Yet, here you are", said Joffrey.
"Looks like I'm probably the only one left. Maybe there are others…, who knows?", said Seraf. "Seraf, you are to go with Joffrey to find the evidence of the treacherous Tywin and Cersei to take over the Iron Throne. I want you to be invisible. Obviously, Cersei and Tywin would not show it in front of Joffrey, but behind our backs they would. Can you do that?", asked Jon. "Do you doubt me, brother?", asked Seraf back. "You know I don't, but I'm worried", said Jon. "Just make sure you come home safe or we'll be roast for dinner", said Viserys. "Your Grace, you know Lady Lara would never let that happen", said Seraf. "True to that", said Viserys with a chuckle.
"The three of you will move out next week. Is that clear?", asked Jon. "Aye-aye, Your Grace", said Seraf. "Do you need me to be there, Your Grace?", asked Tyrion. "That will be your decision to make, Lord Tyrion", said Jon and Tyrion nodded. This was it, his chance to prove of his worthiness.