Several Days Later.
The Kingsroad - Heading to King's Landing
Zatanna Zatara and M'gann M'orzz
From their shared looks of concern, it wasn't hard for Sansa to see how truly reluctant the crude little Imp's 'bodyguards' had been to leave him to his own devices. Even if Artemis had assured her that M'gann and Zatanna would protect her with their lives, Sansa still wished that her father hadn't insisted his new Captain of the Guard stay behind to watch over the rest of their family in Winterfell. But, she quickly reminded herself that complaining about the past was a useless endeavor at best.
She wasn't the pretty little bird any longer, hadn't been the simple minded idiot that believed all the stories of knights with their duty and honor since making the acquaintance of one Artemis Crock. She had went against everything Sansa had ever been taught was appropriate and 'proper' from the very start, and had made no apologies for it. Septa Mordane had been foolish enough to try to interfere with the 'wildling' woman, and had almost wound up as verbally beaten down as Theon Greyjoy was on a regular basis. Their heated debates still made made Sansa smile since while Mordane would never admit it, the old Septa was gladdened by the fact the elder archer possessed such a wild spirit.
No, the doe eyed young girl only interested in womanly pursuits and a gloriously royal marriage had disappeared, replaced with a far more confident woman who wanted more out of her life. Artemis had seen to that, and Sansa, despite their rough start, couldn't thank her enough for making her see how stupid she had been.
Mocking Artemis publicly had since turned into one of their secret little lessons, one where the public believed one thing, and they knew something else altogether. They had become quite proficient in hiding the truth from everyone, even Sansa's mother had no idea of what they now shared. Despite Arty's disapproving frown, Sansa had made sure to drag the archer into a quiet stock room and took the opportunity to give her a proper farewell. It wouldn't due for people to know the eldest Stark daughter thought of their new captain of the guard as an adoptive older sister, but Sansa hadn't listened to Artemis's protests.
Sansa almost flinched as the strangest sensation came over her. It was almost as if some unseen person was quietly chuckling in her mind, and it didn't take her long to see where the 'voice' was originating from when she caught the beautiful raven haired woman's gaze several yards ahead of her, astride her own horse. Sorry, Artemis can be most insistent when she wants to be. Just as Sansa was about to call out to the one they called Zatanna, she shook her head firmly and 'spoke' again. Don't speak aloud, we can hear you just fine if you merely think of your responses. A handy trick provided by my friend here. Zatanna gave a subtle nod to the woman on horseback next to her.
That's an understatement. Arya snarked, her own horse keeping pace with her sister's, but despite the fact they were heading to the capital, none of them needed to see her frown to know she wasn't happy about what had happened to Bran before they had finally left. Sansa was just as sullen over the 'accident', knowing as surely as her sister that it had not been a case of him losing his footing. Bran never fell, had never even slipped once in his life while climbing the walls of their home. No, while Arya dreaded to consider the possibility, Sansa wasn't nearly so squeamish, not anymore. Someone, for whatever reason, had tried to kill their brother. CAN YOU HEAR ME SANSA?!
"You don't have to shout!" Sansa snapped at the younger girl as she noticed the smirk on her face. That's not funny Arya.
Arya's gleaming eyes said it all. I'm going to like this.
Arya... what did I tell you? M'gann did her best to stifle her laughter at the Stark sisters behind her, while doing her best to remain stern.
The second youngest Stark rolled her eyes and slumped in her saddle. No yelling in anyone's head or telling anyone about your magic. Not that anyone would believe me anyway.
Glad to see you're paying attention, but you never know who might believe you if you mention something like our unique talents to the wrong person. Zatanna stated, while suppressing the faces of several people she and M'gann assumed would be eager to put their heads onto spikes if they ever found a suitable reason to raise a mob against them. There wasn't a need to upset the girls more than they had been already, something she knew all too well from personal experience.
Sansa was still trying to wrap her mind around the fact she was speaking without moving her lips, but the danger in anyone discovering this was obvious, even to her. How are you doing this?! Nevermind, she has a point Arya, King's Landing is full of unfriendly eyes and ears. One of them is with the King right now. Once, there might have been a time she would have been fooled by the Queen's courtesies and Joffrey's charm, but that time had come and gone. Now she saw the coldness in the woman's face, and the arrogance in her son's. And she was supposed to marry into their line? She wasn't sure how she'd be able to pull that off without risking insanity.
"And how are you lovely ladies this glorious day?" As if to prove her point, Jaime Lannister let his horse lag behind the rest of the royal entourage, and the wheel house he had been riding beside, until he was next to her and her sisters. "It'll be a long ride, I could always ask my sister to let you travel in her carriage. I'm sure she can spare the room. 'Sides, Princess Myrcella never did like horses, but you seem quite capable in the saddle. Who taught you? Not your father I assume."
Sansa looked to her sister, who only shrugged, before hesitantly meeting Jaime's gaze. For all intents and purposes, she appeared to have been struck dumb by his handsome face and polite manners, but the reality was far simpler. He isn't to be trusted. His eyes never smile. Aloud however, Sansa smiled prettily and said what was expected of her. The thing about being a 'little bird' was that you learned to say the right things at the right time. "It would be an honor m'lord if you could ask on my behalf. As for who taught me to ride, Ser Jory was kind enough to show me the proper way to seat a horse."
It took a considerable amount of concentration to divide her attention evenly between Jaime and the 'voices' in her head, but Sansa managed it with little visible effort. Took you this long to notice, or were you just distracted by his insistent flattering? Arya scrunched up her face in thought. And didn't Arty manage to fall off twice as much as you did? Definitely not a wildling, no matter what father tells us.
For once we agree Arya. Sansa said with an audible note of sorrow at leaving Artemis behind in Winterfell.
"Are you alright Lady Stark?" Jaime asked with a hint of concern, noticing her distracted gaze. "Already missing home?"
"Yes m'lord….and my brothers, Bran especially." Sansa didn't have to feign her sadness, not completely, when she met the blonde's handsome face again. Again she found it hard to look into his hard, almost dead gaze, but she managed it.
"He's a tough lad. Chances are he'll be awake and wanting to come south as soon as he's able."
"We can only hope, thank you for your kind words m'lor-"
"Please, Jamie will suffice. I've never been one for lording over titles. I already have one title I could do without as it is."
"There's great honor in serving in the Kingsguard, m'lord. Jamie." Sansa stated solemnly, as was expected of her. Being a personal bodyguard to the king was indeed an honor, but she knew that wasn't what he had meant.
Confirming her line of thought, Jaime scoffed and shook his head before 'kindly' correcting her. "I think we all know that's not the title I was referring to Lady Stark. Still, I suppose I could have been stuck with your father's job. That's another honor I'd gladly do without." With a grinning nod, Jaime pulled ahead of them before looking over his shoulder. "Good day to you Ladies. I'll ride back with news after I talk to my sweet sister." And before long, he was back beside the queen's wheelhouse, and as promised, could be seen conversing with Cersei Lannister herself through the open window.
I hate her. Her brothers are bearable at least. Zatanna stated once she was sure Jaime was away from the girls. She didn't have to worry though since Sansa's face barely twitched in response to her heated words about the queen. Arya on the other hand looked almost giddy to hear someone else agree with her opinion of Cersei and the rest of the Lannisters.
Before either M'gann or Zatanna could chastise her about it though, Arya beat them to it. I know, I know, I can't say anything, but I can still think it. You're friends with Arty, and if she trusts you, I trust you.
Thank you Arya, gaining your trust was certainly easier than gaining Arty's. M'gann said as a small amount of glee radiated through the mental link they shared.
Sansa's mind was still reeling from this truly wondrous form of magic, but, thanks once again to Artemis, she had learned to take the unexpected with far greater ease. Why do you think we give it so freely to you? It took sweet, little innocent me the better part of a year to even share secrets with her. I can't imagine how hard you two had it.
Arya narrowed her eyes in disbelief as she stared at her sister. Really? Arty and I talked about all sorts of adventures she'd had a few months after she arrived in Winterfell. Memory loss my ass.
Arya! Sansa looked at her sister in shock, but recovered quickly since she had suspected as much long ago. She had simply never voiced her opinion on the matter. She is right though. After I finally got to know her, I realized that our father hadn't been entirely truthful about her past, but I understood why. Sansa held her head up high, one of her 'tutor's' first lessons, as she liked to think of Arty. She is kindhearted and loyal, that's all I ever cared about.
Kindhearted? Did the Light clone Artemis and dump her evil twin here? When Zatanna sensed a large amount of confusion from the Stark girls, the magician groaned and put her head in her right hand. Nevermind. But the Artemis we knew was always sort of...
Sansa was the first to try and finish the magician's statement in the kindest way she could. Distant?
Hostile? Distantly hostile? Hostily distant? Predictably as ever, Arya was far blunter in her choice of words.
I was going to say a bit of a loner, but I guess those work too. Zatanna broke protocol and turned to gaze at the two girls for a moment. Okay, I have to ask, how did you get to know her so well, so quickly?
Wait. You didn't get past that gruff, growling veneer she puts up to protect herself? Sansa found it hard to believe that Artemis' old friends had had such a hard time to get the archer to open up to them, but after she thought about it for a moment, she found it wasn't so difficult to imagine.
Once she was finally out of bed, it only took me seven weeks to really start to wear her down. I think she always wanted a little sister though. That helped. Arya said with no small amount of pride, and Sansa barely resisted the urge to giggle since again they were in agreement, even if the amount of time involved was different.
M'gann and Zatanna shared an incredulous look before the martian spoke up. What I want to know is how you became so adept at disguising your true feelings so well Sansa Stark. I could sense your disgust in regards to the Lannisters long before we introduced ourselves officially to you and your sister, on Artemis's 'request'. She added with a subtle grin thrown over her shoulder at the two Stark girls at the teasing insult about the blonde archer. 'Officially introduced' was another joke for their benefit since M'gann had snuck herself and Zatanna past the guards and into their shared quarters. She had felt mildly guilty, always hesitant to abuse her powers in any way, but the two serving maids the guards secretly spent time with didn't seem to mind. All had it taken was a simple nudge to get the guards to leave the area.
Arya was far more interested in M'gann, and her thoughts betrayed her curiosity before Sansa could begin to 'speak' anew. Is it true that your skin is green and you have flaming red eyes that can kill a man with a look?
I believe that Arty must have exaggerated a few things about me Arya. And I would never kill anyone. Not on purpose...but if I had to, it'd be to protect my close friends and loved ones only.
Would you kill a man to protect us? Arya hesitantly asked, not as quick to pick up on the older woman's discomfort as her sister.
Arya, why don't you ask Megan, sorry, my apologies, M'gann, where she hails from. It must truly be a strange and wondrous place. Sansa nodded to the strange woman when she shot her a relieved glance at the elder Stark's attempt to change the subject.
Finally getting the hint, Arya's cheeks flushed and she looked down at the saddle between her legs in shame. Sorry. Artemis would no doubt say I just earned my nickname. I am always underfoot, sticking my nose where it's not wanted. She perked up then and stared at the back of M'gann's head, her somber look disappearing as a small smile appeared on her face again. Where do you hail from?
A place far from here. Let's put it that way. M'gann finally said, but much to the girls' amazement, images of Happy Harbor, and the hidden base inside the mountain that overlooked the small, seaside New England town, appeared in their respective minds unbidden. M'gann left out the depressing fact it no longer existed, having been blown up by Kaldur and his strike team sent by the Light to capture his former friends. Or the fact she had crippled Kaldur soon afterward by viciously ripping his mind to pieces, only to learn he had been undercover per Richard's orders.
A particular image caught Arya's attention and M'gann focused on it for her. You fly! You. Can fly. I'm incredibly jealous. Can you teach me how?
M'gann and Zatanna couldn't help but laugh aloud at that. They ignored the glances shot their way from a few passing servants and Lannister men before the martian responded. Artemis's nickname for you is well earned alright. Unfortunately, my power can't be taught. Zatanna's though….
Don't get her hopes up M'gann. Only those born with the gift can use magic, you know that. Still, Zatanna was quick to shoot her friend a teasing smile before speaking again. I'm sure if you asked her nicely, and no one's around to see us, she'll happily take you flying sometime. Me? Take me to dinner first.
Ignore her girls, she thinks she's funnier than she is. But she's a far better magician than a comedian. Oh right, you'd probably say sorceress and jester. M'gann said with a playful roll of her eyes, giggling when Zatanna reached over and nudged her in the side.
I'm quite grateful to have met you both. It's no wonder Artemis trusts you to protect us. You've both done and seen more than we could have ever possibly imagined. After a moment, Sansa continued, surprising not only M'gann and Zatanna, but her own sister as well. If I am to become queen, regardless if my new 'husband' gives his blessing, I think I'll make it a point to start recruiting women into positions of true standing and prestige.
A very wise policy. Women are just as capable as any man, and it's only the mistaken belief we're good for only a few things that keeps us where we are. As glorified trophies on the walls fit to breed and take care of our 'husbands' castles. Zatanna said firmly, and both Stark girls nodded their heads in solemn agreement.
Artemis proved that everyday. Jory always said if he'd had nine more like her, he wouldn't need the rest of our guards. But I like our guards, most of them, and besides, there can only be one Artemis. It was Arya's turn to surprise her fellow traveling companions by her wise observation about the blonde archer. What? I doubt we'd have a castle if we had more than one Artemis in the same place.
Having one is trying at times. Sansa agreed, another subtle smile tugging at the corners of her lips. You asked before how I am able to hide my true intentions so easily. Artemis….she told me her whole life story one evening, when we were forced to remain inside because of the heavy rain that day. I think it was the first and only time I ever saw her so close to true tears. Sansa tried not to notice as both women stopped their horses and stared at her for a moment before moving on. Is that somehow odd?
Zatanna shared a dumbfounded look with M'gann before addressing that loaded question. Artemis told you all about her life? In one night? And she almost cried? Okay. I'm starting to take that Light clone idea a little more seriously now. You sure it wasn't more like a month, with no tears involved?
Don't blame us for the fact neither of you seem to know her as well as you think you do. Despite the inherent danger of angering two of the most truly powerful women they were ever likely to meet, Sansa wasn't afraid to meet their astonished gazes at the vehemence they heard in her voice. And I am certain it was a single night, because it was one I will never forget. Not because of how strongly it affected her to tell us, but because of how it affected me. I had never felt so completely foolish about my mistaken belief the world was like it was told in my favorite stories of honorable knights and their valiant deeds, all done in the name of honor and duty to their lords. If such was the truth, then what happened to Artemis Crock wouldn't have been allowed to stand. No, the world is not fair, nor safe, nor kind. And woe to the ignorant, innocent young girl who believes otherwise.
Sansa... Arya looked at her sister with new respect and admiration, having never expected to see this side of her sister at all. But when she smirked up at her elder sister, Sansa found she loved the look on the girl's face. You really have been paying attention to our friend, because I didn't think you had a spine until now. The moment was over with that backhanded compliment, and it was Sansa's turn to roll her eyes and look away from her grinning sister.
How he had gotten beside her so quietly, Sansa never knew, but she had to bite back a gasp of surprise when Joffrey seemed to materialize out of thin air. Her cheeks flushed on cue, disguising her shock in feigned admiration and joy at having her husband-to-be at her side. Once more, Arya was struck dumb at how quickly the mask slipped back into place, and Lady Sansa was back in the saddle, looking for all intents and purposes the doe eyed girl everyone expected. "My prince, what a pleasant surprise. It's so kind of you to check on my well being."
"My uncle told me you desired to ride with my mother, but she sent me to tell you today she has to speak with some of our men at arms. She extends her invitation for tomorrow though." Joffrey said politely, his smug little grin painted on his face. Sansa resisted the urge to smack that smug look off of his face by some small miracle. "So odd to see a woman who can ride, let alone four at once. I see you've met my uncle's whores." Joffrey leaned closer to Sansa as if sharing a secret with her. "Although, he likes us to pretend they are his trusted bodyguards and advisors. They're certainly trusted enough to suck his cock." With an unkind smile and a wave of his hand, he curtly dismissed them. "Go on, off with you both. You're sullying my Lady with your presence." Zatanna and M'gann did as they were told, not because they had been ordered off, but because to linger would invite trouble they couldn't afford. Not yet.
Sansa had to bite her tongue as an unbidden image of Joffrey's head on a spike over one of the city gates to King's Landing appeared in her mind, and she had no doubt of who had thought it up when Zatanna looked over her shoulder at them. Turning to Prince Joffrey, a title that was sorely wasted on him, Sansa regained her composure without missing a beat. "They were merely entertaining us with stories of your home, my prince. I asked about King's Landing, and they were happy to oblige my curiosity. Would you wish to regale me with tales of the capitol instead? It must be a glorious place to live, so much excitement, so much to do and see!"
Yes, please do tell us what you think about your home you pompous little shit. I'm sure you have all kinds of marvelous stories about pissing on the commoners. Sansa had to cover her mouth with her hand to hide a 'giggle' of excitement which disguised her smirk at Arya's less than stellar opinion of Joffrey in general. All the while, Joffrey painted a pretty picture of King's Landing for them, completely unaware of the real topic up for discussion between the 'whores' and the ladies.
I am really starting to like you Arya. Zatanna stated with pride.
Everybody does, sooner or later. Don't worry, Arty already made me swear an oath not to use my power for evil. All of them shared a good laugh in the mental link at the young girl's equally proud comment.
Even when Joffrey asked if Sansa wanted to ride away from the column for a while, the merriment between them was all but palpable as she and the prince rode ahead of the royal entourage. It was the expected thing to do, and despite her misgivings about going anywhere alone with Joffrey, Sansa didn't mind because it gave her a chance to spread her wings and fly as she pushed her horse to keep up with his own.
Once they were gone, Arya caught up with the two 'whores' and their horses, and led the way to her lord father and the men that surrounded him. By the way, you both did a splendid job of not punching Joffrey's teeth down his throat. How you avoid doing that on a daily basis is a total mystery to me.
We've had a lot of practice at not doing the first thing that comes to mind. M'gann said with a gleam in her brown eyes. But thanks for the compliment Arya, dealing with you is much more fun for us, trust me.
I'll bet. The surprise on Arya's face was only matched by Ned's amused glance towards his daughter as he looked towards the two women that flanked her. Come back for more war stories of our favorite archer? Ned's eyebrows shot to his hairline in astonishment. By the Gods new and old, has Arya Underfoot been struck speechless? What are the chances of that happening? Ned didn't wait for his daughter to recover from the shock of having been included in the link without her being aware of it before he addressed those with her. I'll admit M'gann, feeling your presence in my head for the first time was a bit... disconcerting, but Artemis's stories helped to prepare me for it. Her true and unadulterated stories I should say. And before you ask my sweet summer child, I was listening the entire time you were talking with them.
An embarrassed Arya had the presence of mind to blush at her father's implication. Oh. About Joffrey, what I meant to-
You needn't bother. Our Prince truly is a pompous little shit if there ever was one, but we must abide him. You know our words, you know we need people to stand beside us when Winter does finally come. After a short pause to allow his words to sink in, Ned's next comment was far less weighted in dark undertones. And don't tell your mother I let you curse or she'll skin my hide, even if it was only in our heads.
Why are you so calm about this? Honestly, I'm still not quite used to it. While Arya was smart enough to hold her tongue towards the two women, it wasn't hard for Zatanna and M'gann to pick up on her simmering resentment at being so thoroughly embarrassed.
Ned gave a barely noticeable shrug as he kept a watchful eye on the road ahead. Oh, I'm not calm at all, I'm just really good at pretending to be.
You, afraid? Whatever embarrassment she had been feeling disappeared at the sheer idea that her father could be afraid of anything.
Arya bristled at the sound of laughter behind her coming from a certain sorceress. He handled it better than you did Arya. At least we didn't have to hear him yell, "Why is my voice so loud?!", a dozen times before M'gann taught you how not to shout.
It wasn't a dozen! Just...once or twice. Arya muttered softly, an annoyed glare fixed on her face.
It helps that my mind is a quiet wasteland I suppose. While Zatanna had quickly become accustomed to Ned's dry humor, M'gann still made the mistake of always taking him seriously.
Don't say that! You have a fascinating mind Ned. So organized and focused and- You could hear the metaphorical crickets chirping in the awkward silence that followed. Sorry. I can call you Ned, right?
Ned is fine, only because you're such good friends with Artemis. There was a noticeable edge to Ned's words as he spotted Robert ahead of the column. Zatanna couldn't meet the Lord's gaze when he turned to stare at them a moment later. I take it everything you have told me is the honest truth?
Arya turned to see Zatanna and M'gann playing some odd game with their hands, and evidently Zatanna lost as M'gann pretended to cut into her extended palm with her fingers. Rubbing the back of her neck, the sorceress chuckled nervously and turned to meet Lord Stark's stern gaze. From what Arty-Artemis said about you, we know better than to lie to you. We have only known you a couple weeks, not years, not like Artemis has come to know you and yours Lord Stark. We understand if you aren't quick to believe us, especially given who we rode into Winterfell with. We trust Tyrion alone, not his family, while Artemis trusts your entire family. I didn't need M'gann to tell me that, nor the fact Artemis loves your eldest son.
I didn't say a word. Arya said when Eddard looked at them all in shock at Zatanna's keen observation.
Only a blind man could miss the way they look at each other, but we know Artemis better than you think. The edge left M'gann's voice, but the piercing glare she cast on Ned didn't waver in the slightest. She won't take the chance to open up her heart again for fear she'll lose him like she lost the love of her life. She's afraid of facing another sorrow that painful, but to look at her when she's with your family, I almost forgot she had ever lost the better half of her heart once already. That is why we trust you with all of this Eddard Stark. You did what we would have struggled to accomplish in the same amount of time. She really is better off here, with the Starks of Winterfell. Only after she was done giving her impassioned speech did M'gann let her head hang, as if all the strength had left her all at once.
Ned knew the look of a woman that had lost just as much, having told men, husbands, brothers, mothers, and more of lost friends and loved ones during the rebellion. While he didn't comment on it, he softened his stern visage and looked at the two with renewed interest and compassion, finally realizing he had been too quick to judge them by the company they kept. High praise indeed. I am sorry to hear of her anguish, but I am heartened to know my family has provided a much needed catharsis for young Artemis. Perhaps my mistrust of Zatanna and yourself was misplaced M'gann, and for that I apologize.
You had every reason not to trust us, but we had just as many not to trust you. We didn't know Artemis was with you, if you had treated her decently, or well, anything really, but you proved all of our fears invalid. We are equally at fault, but I'm glad we've finally managed to come to a mutual understanding. Zatanna stated firmly in turn, having draped an arm over M'gann's shoulders by that point.
Eddard's eyes widened with concern as a familiar voice sent out a desperate plea. I need your help! The little beast is going to gut this poor boy if I don't do something! Lady no!
Sansa's in danger! M'gann, Zat, with me. Arya, stay with Jory.
"Mycah! I forgot all about him!" Arya shouted as she was restrained by Jory before she could ride off. M'gann had already disappeared from sight by then, and had flown off as fast as she could. Don't let him hurt Mycah, please! He's my friend! I was going to play knights with him again!
Don't worry, I'll protect him. M'gann stated with a steely look of determination. Gone was the compassionate woman that had just been riding with them. What they heard was the cold, mission minded warrior that had led attacks against some of the worst their world had ever seen. It sent a chill down Arya's spine, while Ned was reminded that they came from a place that was unlike anything he could have ever imagined.
For Ned, there was no question as to what he had to do as he chased after the barely visible ghost, pushing his horse for all he was worth. Is Sansa alright?! What do you see M'gann?! His answer came about the same time he cleared a dense patch of trees, riding fast toward the river's shore.
They're by the river and- For a moment all that could be heard among them was M'gann's startled gasp. He didn't have to be told what had happened as he heard an ear piercing scream that was unmistakably Sansa's, but they were sobs of sorrow and desperation rather than agony and terror. He had heard enough horrible screams in two wars to know the difference.
"Sansa!" By the time he entered the clearing by the river, Ned brought his horse up short when his eyes fell on his daughter's direwolf, struck down by Joffrey's sword which was currently sailing through the air before it disappeared into the river. Then his eyes fell on a gasping form of a young boy not six feet away from his sobbing daughter as she cradled Lady in her arms. The butcher's boy, Mycah, had had his throat cut by Joffrey's blade, and he was already well on his way to bleeding out as the light left his eyes. When he heard a rather large splash, he looked towards the river, and to his amazement, saw Joffrey floundering on the far side.
Let. Him. Drown! Sansa screamed in their minds, her face a picture of contorted rage before agony consumed her once again.
As much as I want to, I can't let him die. M'gann all but whispered as she pulled an unconscious Joffrey out of the river, her clothing suddenly 'sopping wet' as members of the Kingsguard raced towards them, Jaime Lannister in the lead.
"What happened here? Is he alive?! Out of my way woman!" Jaime sighed as he felt at the boy's neck before garing at M'gann. "I'll ask again. What happened?"
Other than a few bite marks on his arm and the fact he had almost drowned, Joffrey was fine. Yet when he woke up with a start, he started sobbing like a little girl. It reinforced the realization of just how utterly wasted his title was for Sansa. "She's a witch! The bitch nearly killed me!"
"I don't know what he's talking about m'lord. I heard screaming and came to see what was happening. A wolf had appeared and was leaping at him, but Joffrey bravely managed to defend himself." M'gann paused as she looked towards a crying Sansa, Ned and Zatanna kneeling by her side. Then her eyes fell on the still boy next to them. "In the confusion, the butcher's boy stumbled into his blade as he pulled it free of the beast."
"Is that so?" Jaime's thoughtful eyes flicked to a now slightly calmer Joffrey. "I do believe you're right. A rather unfortunate turn of events all the way around. But that does beg the question, why is your friend's pet laying on the ground?" As soon as the words were out of his mouth, Lady stood to her feet and looked around in what could only be confusion as Sansa and Zatanna proceeded to gently calm her. Jaime raised an eyebrow, but when he looked to M'gann, he smirked at the woman before he nodded his head. Whatever had passed between them was missed by most everyone, Joffrey included as he dusted himself off and was helped to his feet by his uncle. "I'm proud of you nephew, you acted to defend yourself and your Lady. Guess your wolf was just stunned." He knew better, having seen the stab wound from Joffrey's sword, but looking at the white direwolf now, Jaime only saw the blood that could have been from the dead butcher's boy for all anyone knew.
"The wolf that attacked us was an ugly beast. Too bad it got away." Joffrey grumbled, and again Jaime was reminded of the strange women that hovered around his brother as the prince turned to Sansa next, who looked visibly relieved that her direwolf was alright. "I….I'm sorry for startling you so my lady." Ignoring the scathing looks from Zatanna and M'gann as he mounted his horse, he looked to Eddard and was taken aback by the fact the Lord of the North had his hand locked around the hilt of his sword. Choosing to run with what pride he had left, Joffrey rode off with his uncle, his bitten arm held close to his chest the whole ride back.
Only when the others had ridden away did Sansa let her mask fall as she turned to Zatanna, tears running down her face as she ran her fingers through Lady's fur. Thank you. Gods know how you did it, but thank you for healing Lady. First Bran, now this... you truly are a forger of miracles.
Zatanna lightly blushed at the grateful girl's words. I just happen to know a few useful spells. Standing to her feet, Zatanna wobbled but stood steady as she looked down at the direwolf and her mistress. And I don't need to be a magician to see these direwolves have bonded to you and your sister, Sansa. There really is something strange about the Stark family pets. Even if they hadn't, there was no way we'd have let Joffrey get away with more than he does on a daily basis. M'gann might have altered his memory, but he'll pay for what he did to Mycah, you can count on that. Zatanna stumbled and was about to fall until M'gann caught her, and held her steady until she recovered from her recent spell casting. Never had to do a healing spell of that level on the fly before. Let alone twice in a week. I'll be alright, just give me a minute.
Ned slowly walked over to Mycah and knelt by his still form before gently closing the boy's eyes, forever sealing away his terrified gaze. Zatanna, the boy, is there nothing you can do for him?
No one can bring back the dead, not truly. Unless you want a reanimated corpse without the soul, but that's no substitute to true life. Zatanna said at last as she gently pushed M'gann away when she was sure she wasn't going to fall over again. There's nothing more we can do here. Arya's not going to take this well. She rested a hand on Edward's shoulder as he stared down at the boy. Ned... she's going to blame herself. He was waiting here to play with her.
Ned only nodded as he led the way back to the rest of the small army that had accompanied Robert. He didn't need Zatanna to tell him what he already knew. I will tell her myself. She is of the north, but more importantly, she's my blood. All the strength seemed to have flowed out of the man as he carried the boy back to the King's procession.
Arya was where they had left her, astride her horse with Jory having ridden up next to her the moment they had gone to investigate the disturbance. Ned didn't get to say a word before Arya's face fell when her gaze fell on Mycah. "No..." She slipped off her mare and dashed over as Ned gently laid the boy on the ground. What happened to him?! Why did you all shut me out?! Arya screamed in their minds as she started to sob over the boy's body. Her rage filled gaze burned into Ned as she began pounding on his chest. Why didn't you save him?! Why didn't you DO SOMETHING?!
Ned said nothing and took Arya's slamming her fists into his chest without complaint. It was better she wear her rage out now, something he had learned from dealing with a similarly strong willed young woman that he had been forced to leave at Winterfell.
M'gann had since knelt beside the two and hesitantly put her hand on the young girl's back. I'm so sorry Arya, I tried to stop Joffrey, I just wasn't fast enough.
All of Arya's rage was still solely focused on her father as she ignored M'gann's attempt to comfort her. You didn't save my friend, and now you're going to protect the beast who killed him?! You call yourself a hero. A man of honor! All you are is a liar and a coward!
Sometimes the only way to help the right people is by protecting your enemies until you can deal with them properly. That was a lesson Zatanna and M'gann had been slow to learn back home, but one that Tyrion had gotten them to heed after some convincing. Zatanna knew that it wouldn't help at this moment since Arya was too upset to listen to reason, but she hoped she'd remember it later. As for your father, he did his best, but sometimes our best isn't good enough.
"Leave me alone!" Arya screamed as she raced away from the three of them. Jory was quick to ride after her, giving Eddard a somber nod before galloping off. Before he got twenty feet, his horse reared up and gave a terrified winnie as it threw the man from his saddle before racing off in a panic.
"Sorry Ser Jory!" Zatanna shouted over her shoulder as she rode off on her own horse after Arya and Nymeria, who had ran after the young Stark child. Disappearing into the woods that they had just left behind earlier that morning, it didn't take the sorceress long to realize she wasn't going to find the girl as easily as she had hoped. Hmm. You know I could set this forest ablaze if I wanted to right?
"You're just as bad as the rest of them!" While she couldn't pinpoint the source, Zatanna was relieved to note Arya was at least within shouting distance. "You're all liars and cowards, and you let Joffrey kill my friend and get away with it!"
Arya, we have to be very careful now.
"I don't care! Let them hear me!" Zatanna had since spotted a flicker of movement to her right, and saw a flash of wolf eyes before they disappeared into the foliage. That meant Arya was likely nearby, either in a tree or hiding in the bushes. Either way, Zatanna had a fair idea she was getting closer as she patted her horse on the side of her neck.
You know I can't let you stay out here alone Arya. Your father will be coming out here soon enough, I just beat him to the punch.
Zatanna heard an exasperated sigh in her mind as the girl finally gave in. To a point. I'll be fine, Nymeria will protect me. We can be happy in these woods, she can hunt rabbits and squirrels and I could fish.
Let me guess, Artemis? Zatanna chuckled when she felt Arya's surprise at how accurate her guess had been. How do you think she'll feel if we leave you out here Arya? What about your mother, your brothers, or even Sansa?
No. Stop! Nymeria, stop! Zatanna blinked owlishly at the absurd sight of Arya being dragged by the sleeve out into the open by her own wolf before she hopped down from her saddle. Nymeria looked quite pleased with herself as she sat in front of the sorceress, with an annoyed Arya glaring between her and Zatanna. "Fine! I promise I won't run away. Today."
"Good girl." Zat softly cooed to the panting direwolf. Sitting down next to the infuriated girl who had since pulled her legs up to her chin, her back to a nearby tree, Zatanna followed her example before looking up at the tree branches above their heads. "I know what it's like to lose friends, loved ones, Arya. I lost my dad a long time ago, but I lost a friend fairly recently."
"Is this the part where I'm supposed to feel sorry for you?"
"Only if you want to, but I've had time to adjust, so it's not necessary Arya." Zatanna replied while letting a hint of a smile play over her lips. "But the point is, my friend died trying to protect everyone, but my father….he did what he had too to protect me. I'd give everything I am to get him back, but it doesn't work that way." Zatanna paused, blue lightning danced across her fingers before she turned to a mesmerized Arya. "Being a sorcerer like I am, any promise we make in the language of magic is binding, meaning we risk death if we break our word. He was forced to give such a promise to save my life, and it was my fault he was in that position in the first place. So I know what you're feeling better than you could imagine."
"He sacrificed himself for you didn't he? Your father?" Zatanna nodded her head slowly, while casually brushing away a tear from her eyes. "What was his name?"
Nymeria had since laid her head across Zatanna's lap while Arya had scooted closer to the sorceress before she found her voice again. "Giovanni Zatara. My mother died when I was very young, so he raised me alone for as long as I could remember. He taught me everything I know, but he was overly protective. When I wanted my freedom….I got it, but the cost was far too high. I'd give anything to have him hold me in his arms just one more time. If not for M'gann and the rest of my old friends, I don't think I'd have made it as far as I have."
"Yeah , yeah, I should be grateful for my father. I get it." When Zatanna frowned at her sarcastic words, Arya lowered her gaze and stared at the ground. "I am. Don't tell him I said that though. I'm still supposed to be mad at him." Zatanna wasn't surprised when Arya punched the ground next to her. I hate them, I hate all of them! Joffrey, the king, the queen, and all of their men!
So do I Arya, but for now your father's right. We have to pretend we're all on the same side. It'll be the only way we'll get out of this mess in one piece. Running her hand through Nymeria's fur, Zatanna let her free hand fall on Arya's shoulder. We promised Artemis we'd protect your family, and we intend to do just that. But our job will be a lot easier if we're all on the same page. "Are you ready to go back now?"
"It's just so sad, what happened to Mycah." Putting an arrow through Joffrey's eye one day will make me feel better. Zatanna ruffled the girl's hair but nodded as she helped Arya onto the back of her horse, Nymeria trailing behind them as they rode back to the rest of the column.
Let me guess. Artemis again. "I'm sure someone will kill the wolf that started this whole mess." Zatanna winked at Arya, who had to bite her tongue to hide the smirk that threatened to appear on her face.
"I'm certain they will." According to her, only an idiot lets their enemy get close enough to use a sword.
There is a time to deal with an enemy from a distance, and a time to engage them up close. But Arty's right, if you have a choice, always deal with them from a safe distance. Less chance of getting yourself into trouble that way. Although, you have a tendency to get yourself into trouble about as much as Artemis did when she was with us. Her attempt at humor fell on deaf ears.
Arya sighed but said nothing as they soon rejoined the rest of the group. Sansa was relieved that Zatanna had found her sister so quickly, and Ned was glad that she was unharmed despite everything. He looked to the sorceress when his daughter had ran into his arms and started to cry against his chest, nodding his thanks for her aid in getting her back to his side. Zatanna said nothing, she only smiled sadly as she rode up next to M'gann. The martian didn't have to ask what they had talked about.
What she did ask was meant for Zatanna's 'ears' only. Are you going to be alright?
Yeah….thanks M'gann. Thank you for everything you've done for me since the day we met. Zatanna stated softly as they rode ahead of the Starks, ignoring the annoyed look Jory threw her way at the underhanded trick she had pulled with his horse. Said horse had been brought back and calmed down by the time everything had settled, but Zatanna had a feeling she hadn't made a good impression with the man.
Ignoring all of this, M'gann only nodded her head at her friend's words, a small, sad but sympathetic smile on her face. You've done just as much for me as I've done for you Zat. Besides, that's what friends are for.
Just friends? Zatanna retorted about the same time a teasing smirk appeared on her full lips. M'gann shook her head and rolled her eyes this time, but she couldn't hide the light blush on her cheeks. 'Friends' usually don't scream my name and beg me not to stop... how did you put it? Working my magic?
You're becoming just as bad as Tyrion. They shared a laugh at that before they looked towards the north, where he, Bart, Jon Snow, and Benjen Stark had last been seen heading for the Wall. I hope he's alright up there. We should have gone with him.
Don't worry, he'll be alright. The worst that could happen is he freezes his balls off for a few days. It'll do him some good anyway, being away from his crazy family and the usual crap associated with King's Landing. Zatanna felt the same way about leaving Tyrion to his own devices, but she trusted in his ability to get back to them in one piece. He had made it this far without them, a couple weeks wouldn't be hard at all, especially with Benjen and Bart beside him. But Zatanna still couldn't shake the feeling that he would end up in trouble before they saw him again.
Winterfell
Artemis Crock
She hated standing guard over a comatose Bran and a still grieving Catelyn. Zatanna had done an amazing job since the start of her attempts to heal the boy, but she had only been able to do so much. The concussion Zatanna had detected had been dealt with first, but the boy still slept on. His back had been next in line before the sorceress had finally gotten to his legs. By day seven, the magician had looked as pale as Bran did now, and Artemis had firmly insisted she stop before she killed herself on Bran's behalf.
Despite the fact he was in far better shape because of Zatanna's magic, Artemis hated seeing the child so weak, so fragile, and Catelyn's grief hit too close to home. Desperate to do something useful, Artemis gently placed a hand on the matron's shoulder to get her attention. "I'm gonna head down and get something to eat. Do you want me to bring you back something?"
"No thank you Artemis." Catelyn placed her hand over Artemis' with a knowing look. "Go on, get something to eat, I know this is torturous for you."
"My stomach can wait." Artemi softly said as she patted the woman's back and walked back over to her post by the door. "I...was afraid to ask earlier, but what is that thing you're making anyway?" Catelyn had been working on some kind of charm or dream catcher thing, she couldn't decide which, but now that things had started to settle down, she figured it was a good as time as any to ask. The silence was driving her crazy anyway.
Catelyn looked away from the wreath like charm that she had been working on since Bran's fall, and was about to explain what it meant when Artemis raised her bow and aimed an arrow at the opening passageway. They both visibly relaxed when Robb stared the blonde down with a gentle look. "Not remembering to knock, now there's a stupid way to die."
"If I was worried about my safety, I would have." Robb stated sternly before turning to his mother and the closed window by Bran's bed. He sighed and shook his head, having already talked to Luwin about making the arrangements needed to keep the castle running, but he hadn't been happy about it. Not because he had been forced to step up, but because his mother had given him no choice. "When was the last time you left this room?"
"She's been here since breakfast." Artemis told him as Catelyn threw her a glare. "If you mean how long she's been here in general, then about as long as you'd expect. Every waking hour."
"I have to take care of him, regardless of what your Lannister friends said." Catelyn snapped back, making Artemis take a step back while Robb shook his head in sorrow.
Walking over to the window, Robb had opened them wide, ignoring the barking from the few direwolves that were left in Winterfell. "Rickon needs you. He's six. He doesn't understand what's happening, he thinks everyone's left him. He spends all day, clutching my leg, crying!"
Artemis wasn't so blind as Catelyn broke down again and started sobbing as if Bran had only just fallen. "Close the window stupid! Those wolves going crazy aren't helping." Having since turned to Catelyn again, she forgot all about the dogs or the window. "But Robb's right. You need to stop this Cat. I get it, trust me, but you have other children that need you. You have an entire castle of people that need you."
"Do not propose to lecture me on what I need do." Catelyn snapped at the two of them, her eyes blazing with anger. "I will not leave his side, and that is the end of it."
"Mother...please be reasonable. Locking yours-" Turning back to the window, Robb paused as he started to close it and stopped cold. Artemis noticed and ran over to his side just as he shouted the last word she wanted to hear. "Fire! The library's on fire! Stay here, we'll be back!"
"Be careful!" Catelyn yelled to them as Artemis dashed out the door two steps behind Robb. "May the gods protect them..." Slowly standing from the small chair she had personally dragged to Bran's room, Catelyn went to the window and wondered how the fire had started. Luwin had hopefully gotten out alright, as well as anyone else that might have been in there, but those thoughts were distant compared to her concern for Bran's safety. Maybe Robb's right...I have been selfish.
The hairs on the back of her neck stood on end as soon as the thought had passed through her mind, and Catelyn turned only to stumble back in shock. "Shoulda known that fire wouldn't have dragged a mother away from her kid. I ought to know, raised two myself." The assassin was one of the biggest men Catelyn had ever seen, but it wasn't his size that drew her horrified gaze. It was the metal mask, the arm guard and pauldron on his left arm, and the knife he had drawn already that did that. If he saw her stunned recognition, the man chose to ignore it. "Well, guess I'll just have to do you and the brat then. After all, we can't have any witnesses now can we?"
"NO!" Catelyn didn't know how it happened, only that when she went to grab the knife away from the giant of a man, she was soon on her back with the assassin straddling her waist, his knife already going for her chest. Time slowed down to a crawl as Catelyn watched the valyrian steel blade descend, only for it to be deflected at the last possible moment by a perfectly shot arrow. The dagger was knocked loose from the man's hands and sent spinning away to a distant corner of the room. Momentarily distracted, Catelyn seized the opportunity and managed to rip the man's mask off, bashing him with it with one hand and clawing at his eyes with the other.
He was forced to jump back, several superficial scratches his reminder not to underestimate a mother's willingness to protect her cubs. But that thought flew out the window when his brown eyes fell on the blonde that had fired the arrow at the worst time. Despite his surprise, the man's lips pulled up into a malicious grin as Artemis's gray eyes filled with horrified recognition. "Long time no see Artemis."
Artemis only growled out a single word as she shook off her shock and leveled her bow at the bastard that had dared to attack a defenseless child. "You…." Just as she fired, her arrow was deflected by a wave of his armored left arm.
With a loud snarl Cheshire charged past and jumped, her mouth opened wide to snap down on the assassin, but he was ready as another dagger seemed to appear in his hand out of thin air before it found a new home through the bottom of the black direwolf's jaw. She went down with a startled yelp, never to rise again as the steel dug deep into her brain.
Artemis couldn't believe it. "Cheshire!" The loss cut as deep into her heart as surely as if she had been stabbed herself.
Knocking another arrow, her eyes snapped up at the sound of mocking laughter. "Cheshire? Really? Ain't that sweet. You've gone soft baby girl."
End Notes; Vergil1989; I love cliffhangers. They give you so much to look forward to.
Archer83: Don't they just? Nothing like having absolutely no idea what will happen next. It's almost as heart pounding as watching this really awesome fantasy show on HBO...
Vergil1989; Not only did we make Sansa somewhat likeable, but I'm sure some of you folks can guess who we replaced the assassin with lol. I always hated the idiot for standing there like an ugly statue and running his mouth instead of simply adjusting his plan of attack, or just slitting Catelyn's throat from behind and having done with it. There's a difference between bragging and being stupid. Basically, I hate unprofessionalism lol.
As for Artemis being a bitch, I'm surprised I didn't hear something like that sooner lol. Joking aside, we hope you've enjoyed the game so far guys and gals. Stay tuned!
Archer83: To cdog21, there's this time tested phrase: Be careful what you wish for. The cruelest thing George RR Martin does to his characters is hurt their loved ones. Or he just wipes out entire families in one shot.