Chapter 10
Sansa rubbed at her eyes, helplessness bubbling inside her as Tyrion's faint whimpers drifted through the wall.
"Almost finished my lord" came Henly's voice
It didn't matter that Sansa wasn't in the room with them, she had a good idea what was going on. Tyrion's private area had been bruised and swollen when they found him - damage they now knew had been caused by Cersei. Maester Henly didn't believe there would be any long term damage there, but regular exams were a necessary precaution, however much Tyrion hated it. While Sansa was careful to leave the more intimate aspects of Tyrion's care to the Maester she was usually with him during exams or when he needed to use the chamber pot. If nothing else she could distract him, and keep him calm while the Maester worked.
None of which she could do from in here.
It was cruel. Her chambers were right next to Tyrion's and she'd heard his distress through the wall, but was completely unable to help him - all because the lords of the Westerlands had seen a way to use Tyrion. Because of them she wasn't allowed to see Tyrion until tomorrow's hearing had taken place, and if she lost that she wouldn't be able to see him at all.
'Why would that matter?' taunted her mind
Of course it mattered. Tyrion was her friend; she wouldn't allow him to be used.
'Is that why you've sat with your ear pressed to the wall all evening?'
That wasn't true. She'd moved the desk closer to that wall for better lighting, not so she could listen out for Tyrion. It was only a coincidence she'd heard him through the wall - his bed was quite close to the other side after all.
The issue of Northern independence had been resolved but there were still things to do before she could return to Winterfell. The most important was securing Tyrion's passage north, but there was relatively little she could do until the hearing and staying in her room was becoming unbearable.
Another whimper drifted through the wall. Too subtle for most people to notice, but Sansa wasn't most people and she'd come to know the sound of Tyrion's distress well. Her guards had been stood down from their duty until tomorrow and Bran had chosen a few of his own guards to stand at Tyrion's door instead. There was no chance she could get in the room, no matter how much she wanted to.
Listening to Tyrion was growing increasingly difficult. None of this was his fault. Daenerys was the one who betrayed him.
'Because of who?'
Guilt swelled in Sansa as she sank deeper into her seat. She hadn't trusted the dragon Queen, but she'd never imagined Daenerys would question Tyrion's loyalty because of their friendship.
"You seem rather busy my lord" said Sansa, noticing the piles of papers and books spread around the table
"Too busy I fear" he answered, slumping in his chair
Sansa halted, turning to leave "Oh. Apologies my lord, I've no wish to distract you..."
"No! Please join me" he said hurriedly, gesturing to the spare seat "I'm in desperate need of a distraction"
"If you're sure I'm not disturbing you"
"Certainly not. I'd suggest things would be worse if you didn't join me"
"How so?"
Tyrion's face was tired, but his eyes were warm and bright "Without your calming presence there's every chance I'll set fire to all this work and be done with it. You, and only you can save me from invoking my Queen's wrath"
Sansa pretended to consider for a moment, before taking the seat beside him "Very well. I suppose I can save you"
He smiled "Lady Sansa, I'm quite certain you're the only one who can"
How many times had they stumbled upon each other in Winterfell? It was a large castle. No matter how full it was, it shouldn't have been possible to keep finding each other the way they had. Yet Sansa had often found herself working beside Tyrion or crossing paths with him without quite understanding how it happened. It wasn't just her; he'd seemed equally bemused by it.
"Are you stalking me lady Sansa?" he'd once quipped, after walking into each other for the tenth time that day
No, she hadn't been stalking him. Yet somehow she always knew where to find him. Sansa laid her hand on the wall, hoping he would sense she was close. The tangled web of feelings and things unsaid could be dealt with at home. For now there were more immediate problems to address, with the fate of Cersei Lannister being one of them. Sansa's blood boiled at the thought of the last Queen. Daenerys betrayal would have crushed Tyrion, but it was his sister's cruelty that had shattered him.
"You're not alone Tyrion" she whispered to the wall "I'll see that justice is done for you, and no matter what you're coming home with me. Just be brave a little longer"
"Why would you let it go to a hearing?" asked Jon, staring at his brother
"It was the only way"
"You're the King. There were other ways"
Bran shook his head "The North is independent. It can be a good thing for the North, but there are consequences too. Letting Sansa take Tyrion simply because they're friends would be frowned upon by many"
"You can't want those lords from the Westerlands to take him? You know what that would do to Sansa"
Bran's face was unreadable "Sansa has a good chance of winning, but the North is a separate kingdom now and allowing the lord of Casterly Rock to be taken there in such a vulnerable state would be seen as negligent by many. As King I have a duty to the six Kingdoms and it's lords"
This shouldn't be so difficult. It was obvious to anyone with eyes Sansa held no sinister intentions towards Tyrion. Tomorrow's hearing would be a political battlefield when there was no reason for it to be. It hadn't taken long for news of the hearing to reach him and Arya. While Arya had quickly disappeared doing who knows what, Jon had decided to be direct with Bran. He'd hoped convincing his brother to call the whole thing off would be easy, but the new King was determined for it to go ahead - as if it was inevitable.
Bran folded his hands in his lap, his dark eyes looking through him "Sansa has everything she needs to win, it just depends on if she's willing to use it"
"If she doesn't win you'll let Tyrion be taken to Casterly Rock?"
"I'll have no choice"
"There's always a choice Bran"
"You could have been King, but you chose not to be" said Bran "these choices could have been yours instead of mine"
Jon shook his head "I wouldn't be a good King"
"Some thought you were the Prince who was promised"
"That was never me"
Bran's gaze turned thoughtful "No, it wasn't"
The creak of the door at the end of the corridor was one Cersei had become overly familiar with. It was usually the only sound she heard all day and night. The unsullied guards never spoke and rarely moved. If Cersei hadn't seen the guards change over every so often she might have thought they were made from stone.
Light flickered down the corridor, casting a soft glow that just about reached her cell. The former Queen pushed up from her shabby bed, creeping towards her cell door. It was the middle of the night, and the guards had changed over not long ago. Could this be her long awaited rescue?
The light stopped just outside her cell door - illuminating the face of Sansa Stark.
"Expecting someone else?" she asked, her blue eyes sweeping over Cersei
If she thrust her hand through the bars would it be possible to reach the Stark girl's throat? The glint of satisfaction in her eyes was nearly enough to make Cersei risk it.
But no. Reacting would only make the girl think she'd won, and Cersei was far from beaten. Instead Cersei pulled her mouth into a smirk.
"I didn't expect you to visit me"
"Neither did I" said Sansa, her voice devoid of any warmth
Cersei smiled widely, sweeping her arms around the cell "I'd invite you in little dove, but this cell is rather cramped"
"Enjoy it while you can"
"Am I going somewhere?"
"You're going to die"
Something cold slithered down Cersei's back though she kept her face neutral. She was a lion after all, and no lion would bow before a wolf.
"Are you going to do it yourself?" asked Cersei, searching Sansa's face. The Stark bitch had always been cold, but there was something else lurking in her expression. She was angry - as much as she was trying to hide it. No...or could it possibly be true?
"So tell me, does my little brother miss me?"
Sansa had always hid her emotions well, but at the mention of Tyrion her eyes narrowed to icy slits.
"Don't call him that"
Gods, it was true. Cersei gagged at the thought. How anyone could love the wretched little monster was beyond her, but it had given her the upper hand in the conversation. If Sansa had a weak spot it could always be used against her.
Cersei tilted her head curiously "Why not? He is my little brother"
"You lost the right to call him that when you tortured him"
"That was Qyburn. I daresay he got carried away" said Cersei, shrugging
"It was your orders he was following, and you will pay for what you've done to Tyrion"
"Will I?"
Anger flashed in the Stark girl's eyes but it was the only hint of emotion she spared "Tyrion is the lord of Casterly Rock and Warden of the West. You hurt him, but you didn't break him. He has the rest of his life to look forward to, and you have nothing. You'll die a hated Queen with no legacy. You'll be nothing"
Cersei grit her teeth, making sure her face remained unbothered "Perhaps little dove, but what of you? You came all this way south and you're not even the Queen. Was it for love? I hope not. The imp isn't capable of it you know. He killed his last lover"
"You don't know what you're talking about" said Sansa, her face a mask of denial "and I know what happened with Shae"
Stupid girl. The truth was written in her every action; only she refused to see it. Sansa stepped back from the cell door, turning down the corridor. Cersei couldn't resist. She leaned against the bars, watching her former ward leave.
"You know what happened with Shae, but I doubt you know what happened to my brother's first wife" said Cersei, her smile widening as Sansa paused "I never found out what happened to her after she left the Rock but I can't imagine she lasted long after abuse like that"
The Stark girl stood at the end of the corridor for a moment with her back to the cells. Cersei watched her, anticipating her reaction. She didn't get one. Sansa carried on without looking back; giving no indication she'd heard.
It didn't matter - Cersei knew she had heard. At least she knew Sansa's weakness now, and could use it against her. The girl should have listened to the advice she gave her long ago; love no-one but your children.
Arya slipped through the castle on silent feet. The earliest hours of the morning were often the most interesting after all. She passed the kitchens where the servants were just beginning to prepare the day's food, and then the servants who seemed to be endlessly cleaning the Red Keep. They all had stories and information, but none that was of interest to Arya.
The barracks in Kings Landing were huge and packed - housing both the gold cloaks and currently the Lannister and Northern armies. The Knights of the Vale and the unsullied were being housed there too. Getting in wasn't difficult, nor was blending in. Most people never looked too closely at her, much like when she was a child.
She came to a stop near the Lannister part of the barracks.
Sansa had asked her to find out which guards were loyal to Tyrion and if any might be a problem. The task was easier said than done. She'd found most guards and servants grumbled about whoever they served. Separating general complaints from threats was difficult, and required more time than Arya could truly devote to it. The hearing would take place at midday and she needed to be there for her sister.
But now, in the early hours of the morning when the castle was just stirring to life Arya could observe. Some people said a lot and meant very little, while others said nothing but were dangerous. Whispers of plots and treason never faded, regardless of who sat the throne or who ruled as lord - the challenge was in finding the truth.
It shouldn't bother her. Cersei was a liar, nothing she said could be believed. There was no reason for Sansa to think Cersei was telling the truth now. She'd never heard anything at all about Tyrion being married before - surely it was a lie to rattle her.
'...can't imagine she lasted long after abuse like that'
Sansa swallowed down the lump in her throat. Even if Tyrion had been married before he wasn't abusive; he wasn't like Joffrey or Ramsay. It couldn't be true, and even if it was why should it bother her? She knew Tyrion well enough, and he'd always been kind to her. Besides they were only friends. There was no reason for her to know his past, or whatever malicious rumours Cersei hoped to spread.
"Lady Sansa, are you alright?"
Brienne's voice pulled her from her thoughts and back to the increasingly packed throne room. This wasn't a trial - there was no need for such a crowd.
"Why are there so many people here?" whispered Sansa
Pod leaned past Brienne to answer "This is one of the King's first appearances in public. Some just want to see the kind of King he is"
"And the others?"
Pod's face tightened "Many are from the Westerlands"
The throne room grew increasingly packed but Sansa was somewhat relieved to find a number of the Northerners had come too. They didn't care at all for Tyrion, but were well aware Sansa wanted to take him to Winterfell. With Northern independence decided, securing custody of Tyrion had become the new focus for the restless Northerners and a way to win against the Westerlands. She supposed old rivalries were difficult to erase.
The room buzzed with activity around Sansa but she barely paid any attention to it. Restlessness had driven her to see Cersei last night but the experience hadn't made her feel any better. Listening to Tyrion's frightened whimpers next door had stoked the anger that lay beneath her calm exterior. Confronting Cersei had seemed the ideal way to vent and remind herself they'd won. Yet all it had done was further her anger at the former Queen's callous cruelty to Tyrion and left her with questions she couldn't answer. No matter how much she told herself it wasn't her business, the question of Tyrion's first wife wouldn't leave her alone. All night she'd gone over Cersei's words and hated herself for succumbing to the manipulative woman's game. An untrusting part of Sansa feared what she may not know about Tyrion, but a deeper part of her felt strangely at the thought she wasn't his first wife.
"Good luck" said Jon, clamping a hand on her shoulder
She flinched at the sudden contact, offering him a weak smile "Thank you"
"Are you alright?"
"I'm fine. I'll just be glad when this is over"
"Me too" said Jon, giving her shoulder a squeeze before moving to take his seat to one side with Brienne, Pod, Ser Davos and Grey Worm.
Sansa hadn't noticed her sister's presence at all until she was stood next to her.
"Don't worry if you lose" she whispered "Tyrion won't be going to the Westerlands after all the bloody trouble you went through to rescue him"
Sansa nodded, desperately trying to bring her focus to the present. This wasn't the time to think about Cersei and her lies. If she lost her focus now she could lose Tyrion. He couldn't defend himself at the moment, but she could defend him.
"I promise you this, I won't ever hurt you"
The words drifted through Sansa, steeling her resolve. It didn't matter what anyone else said, she knew Tyrion was a good man - and he'd always kept his promise to her. Now it was her turn to keep her promise.
"That's Jeyne Lydden" murmured Arya, nodding towards a girl sat beside lord Lydden
The girl looked barely ten and six, with light brown hair that fell to her waist. She wore a low cut gown that left little to the imagination and was nodding politely at whatever her father was telling her. Ser Harys Swyft and Maester Gallard stood beside them too - no doubt making their plans for Tyrion which Sansa would make sure never came to pass.
Sansa moved her gaze from them to the Iron Throne where Bran now sat. A blanket was draped over his useless legs but he seemed at ease on the throne. Beside him sat a plump man, with a ring of brown hair that was quickly turning grey. He wore a simple robe of white with a gold sash around his shoulders decorated with the seven pointed star.
"Who is that?" asked Sansa
"The new High Septon" said Arya "You need to convince him and Bran to win this - and the new Grand Maester"
Her eyes darted to the empty chair on Bran's right "Who is the Grand Maester? I didn't know Bran had chosen someone"
Arya smirked "You'll see, but suffice to say Gallard is a bit put out"
Her sister disappeared in the direction of Jon, leaving Sansa thoroughly confused. Gallard had originally taken charge of Tyrion's care and made little effort to hide his attempt to win her favour. The older man had been perfectly happy to do the bare minimum for Tyrion and was far more concerned with politics than treating him. She'd forgotten all about him until the lords of the Westerlands mentioned him yesterday, and from where he was stood in conversation with lord Lydden it appeared he was now working against her. Sansa pursed her lips; the old Maester hadn't liked his dismissal, or that she chose Henly over him. From what Arya had said Gallard had been unsuccessful in his bid to become Grand Maester too. While the position wasn't actually chosen by the King or Queen, their favour did hold some sway.
Or a lot of sway, Sansa thought, as Samwell Tarly hurried into the chamber and into the seat next to Bran. How had Sam ended up Grand Maester? She turned to her family finding both Jon and Arya looking thoroughly bemused. The lady of Winterfell straightened up, gathering her confidence. Sam was a decent man - surely he would sympathise with her point of view. Bran was unpredictable but he liked Tyrion and Sansa wanted to believe he wouldn't let any harm befall him. The High Septon was the biggest unknown.
"My lady" greeted Henly, inclining his head as he fell into step beside her. Varys was moving to take his position beside the throne. As Bran's acting hand he would preside over the hearing.
"How is he?" asked Sansa
"Well enough" said the Maester, smiling slightly "though I do believe he misses you"
Sansa's heart twisted at the thought. All morning she'd tried to prepare for this hearing, only to find herself distracted by Cersei's words. Poor Tyrion had been with Missandei in the room next door, completely oblivious to what was going on and, apparently, missing her.
'I miss you too' she thought.
That much she could admit to. No matter what Cersei said, or what feelings were buried beneath her increasingly fragile shield Sansa couldn't deny something was missing when Tyrion wasn't around. He might not be himself at the moment, but he was still Tyrion.
Varys opened the hearing, acting as Bran's hand. He was explaining the purpose of the hearing and why it had been called, but the words barely registered in Sansa's mind. The room was packed, and Sansa was overly aware of the crowd behind her. She and Maester Henly were positioned on one side of the hall before the throne while lord Lydden was on the other side with his daughter, Ser Harys Swyft and Maester Gallard. Surely this matter could have been decided privately? Tyrion would be humiliated to know a hearing had been called to decide who got custody of him - as if he was a prized hostage rather than one of the most powerful lords in Westeros.
Anger flickered through Sansa, melting some of her nerves. The logical part of her mind knew why Bran was doing this. He was the King and the North was now independent - Bran had to be seen to be impartial. He needed to appease lord Lydden's request and make sure the rest of Westeros could see his decision making. Understanding Bran's actions didn't mean she liked them however.
"Lord Lydden is representing the Westerlands in this hearing" said Varys, sweeping his hand towards the lord "I would invite him to state his case to the King and his advisors"
The lord stepped forwards, bowing his head humbly before Bran, Sam and the High Septon.
"Your Grace, on behalf of the Westerlands I formally request that Tyrion Lannister - the lord of Casterly Rock and Warden of the West - is given leave to return to his home and recover there from his ordeal" said lord Lydden
"Why should he return there?" asked Bran "Lord Tyrion hasn't set foot in Casterly Rock for years"
"That may be true, but it is his home and there are many servants available to cater to his every need. Maester Gallard has informed me of lord Tyrion's injuries and believes it is in his best interests to return him to his home where his own people can care for him" said lord Lydden, nodding towards the Maester "I for one am inclined to agree with his experienced opinion"
Bran gazed at the lord a moment longer before turning his focus to her "I believe there's a challenge to this request"
"Yes, your Grace" said Varys "Sansa Stark, the lady of Winterfell, opposes this course of action"
"She's our Queen!" bellowed a man, his voice coming from somewhere behind Jon and Arya. The rest of the Northerners were quick to echo the sentiment.
As heart-warming as it was Sansa wished they wouldn't call her as that. It was more than likely she would become Queen when they returned home but right now the title would only make it more difficult to keep Tyrion with her. It reinforced the North's separation from the six Kingdoms and called into question her reasons for taking the lord of Casterly Rock there.
Sansa stepped forwards "It's quite alright, we are in the six Kingdoms and I am the lady of Winterfell. The leadership of the North will be decided when we return home"
"And this is where you wish to take Tyrion Lannister?" asked Bran. His eyes seemed a thousand years old as they looked through her; challenging her to fight for what she wanted.
"It is" said Sansa, lifting her chin "Lord Tyrion was betrayed by Daenerys Targaryen and held prisoner by his sister for weeks before I rescued him. His time in captivity has left him badly injured and currently unable to make his own decisions regarding his care. I believe it is in his best interests to travel North where I can ensure he is cared for properly"
"Why would he not be cared for properly in the Westerlands?" cut in lord Lydden
"He has no family there"
"Nor does he in the North"
"There is no-one in the Westerlands concerned with his wellbeing"
The man's eyes narrowed "What exactly are you implying my lady?"
"Only that the Westerlands did not move to liberate their liege lord, but were perfectly happy to serve Cersei Lannister"
"She was Queen, and as far we were aware lord Tyrion had been disinherited"
"So lord Tyrion is supposed to accept you're all now loyal to him? I've never once heard him speak of you my lord - why should he be taken to the Westerlands and cared for by strangers?"
The older lord's face twitched, but he didn't lose his composure "I could ask you the same question my lady. What is your interest in the lord of Casterly Rock? You wanted Northern independence and you got it. The affairs of the Westerlands are not your concern"
"Lord Tyrion is my friend"
Lord Lydden smiled thinly "As touching as that is, it's hardly a valid reason for allowing the Warden of the West to be taken to an independent Kingdom, particularly in such a vulnerable state"
Henly moved forwards to stand next to her "Your Grace, it would be a mistake to separate lord Tyrion from lady Sansa. The trauma he suffered has left him deeply distrustful and easily panicked. In order for him to have the best chance of recovery it is essential he is surrounded by familiar, trusted faces"
"I hardly think so" said Maester Gallard, his heavy chain clinking "Lord Tyrion barely knows who he is. Anyone who smiles at him he's likely to consider his friend. Casterly Rock is the best place for him to recover. There are many lords and ladies there who can oversee his recovery and ensure the Westerlands is being run effectively in his absence"
Bran was unreadable as he sat the throne and it only intensified Sansa's nerves. They had to understand. He was her friend - what reason could be more valid than that? The last of his family was Cersei and she was the one who'd hurt him so badly in the first place. The High Septon was looking thoughtfully between them, but had yet to offer his opinion. Sam looked out of place beside the throne but he was the only friendly face up there.
"I was at Winterfell with lady Sansa and lord Tyrion" he said, shifting uncomfortably in his grey robes "they were often together. Surely lord Tyrion would feel safer going somewhere familiar. He's friends with Jon too"
Lord Lydden spread his hands "I do not doubt at all that lady Stark and lord Tyrion were on friendly terms before this incident but that hardly means our lord should be sent North. I assume you have ravens up there lady Stark, I'm sure lord Tyrion would appreciate your correspondence"
The hall erupted in sniggers from the Westerlands side and Sansa's cheeks burned at their mockery. This was politics - nobody cared what Tyrion wanted, or what was really in his best interests. Lord Lydden's daughter was smiling sweetly at Bran, as if that would convince him to side with her father.
Sansa drew in a breath, trying to ignore the fear curling around her heart. If she lost this hearing Tyrion would be taken away and married off to lord Lydden's daughter. That was their plan - it was as clear as day but nobody else cared to see it.
"Lady Sansa, is there anything else you wish to bring to the attention of the council before a decision is made?" asked Bran, his dark eyes somber as they fell on her.
She'd lost.
Or had she?
Friendship alone wasn't enough to cut through the political bindings that would keep Tyrion from her, but the document in her gown could.
"There is…" she said, her voice faltering as her heart pounded unevenly in her chest
Could she really do this? It might be enough to protect Tyrion, to keep him with her - but it would change everything. Cersei's words wrapped around her throat like a snake, stirring one of her deepest fears. The consequences of her marriage to Ramsay Bolton would never truly leave her. The fear of finding a monster beneath every friendly face hung in the back of her mind like a dark cloud. On most days she could ignore it. The fear was irrational and unfair to those who'd done her no wrong. Not every man was a monster lying in wait.
"Well?" prompted lord Lydden, a smirk on his face
Warm green eyes drifted through her mind, and the feel of a strong hand gripping her own as it had in the crypts. Bran, Sam and the High Septon were all watching her. The eyes of the crowd were burning into her back.
"You can't take Tyrion away from me" she said, letting her voice waver "he's my husband"
The effect was immediate as a frantic muttering broke out in the crowd. The frantic pounding of her heart was a small price to pay for the look on lord Lydden's face. The smirk had dropped immediately from the older man's face, replaced instead by rapidly building panic. Sansa had released the truth of her marriage status to the public, and navigating the implications of that was a problem for later. Right now the piece of paper in her gown had thrown lord Lydden's plans into disarray.
"That's not possible!" protested Ser Harys, glaring daggers at her "Your marriage to lord Tyrion wasn't consummated - the whole of Westeros knows it"
Maester Gallard had paled considerably at her words but now frantically bobbed his head "Quite right, and lady Sansa has been married since - which was consummated by all accounts"
The mention of her marriage to Ramsay was enough to cut through the storm of conflicting feelings her announcement had freed. Her hand trembled as she reached into the folds of her gown and pulled out the marriage certificate.
"That's where you're wrong" said Sansa, lifting the document "I was falsely told an annulment had been made but that wasn't true. By the laws of gods and men Tyrion Lannister is my husband"
"That marriage was a sham" sneered lord Lydden "it was unconsummated and you've been wed since. The High Septon can easily put it aside"
Sansa flicked her eyes towards the man sat to the Bran's left. He'd been quiet throughout the hearing, listening to both sides with a thoughtful look on his face. He wasn't like the Septons Sansa had met before, or the one who'd married her to Tyrion. The man had an open face and a calm demeanour and unlike others she'd met Sansa thought this High Septon might not be playing the game of thrones.
Varys hurried down from beside the throne, holding his hand out for the certificate. For a moment Sansa didn't want to let it go. It was the only proof she had of their marriage, and the thing that gave her a claim to Tyrion. Varys seemed to sense her reluctance.
"The High Septon and Grand Maester should see it" he said softly
Handing it over was surprisingly difficult. Would the High Septon simply tear it up? The thought caused her heart to twist.
The whole room seemed to wait in tense anticipation as the certificate was passed from Sam to Bran and then the High Septon. Maester Henly was looking at her curiously - the news of her marriage was as surprising to him as it was to everyone outside her family - but Sansa couldn't bring herself to meet his gaze. Lord Lydden and Ser Harys were whispering furiously with Gallard, who was presumably taking the blame for not knowing about the marriage. Everything hung on the High Septon though. He could dissolve her marriage in minutes.
When he lifted his head from the document the whole room fell silent.
"The marriage was never annulled" he announced, turning his eyes to her "When did you discover this lady Stark?"
"Just before we moved on Kings Landing" she answered "my brother Bran had made enquiries about it and gave me that certificate"
The High Septon nodded, as if the mention of Bran explained everything "Am I correct in assuming lord Tyrion is unaware of this?"
"Yes" said Sansa "He was being held captive when I found out"
"You see!" cut in lord Lydden "Lady Stark's only wish here is to play politics. She openly admits lord Tyrion knows nothing of their marriage status. This is a cynical plot to use him to gain control of the Westerlands"
Sansa jerked as if slapped "I want nothing to do with the Westerlands"
"You want our lord though"
"Enough!"
Bran's voice cut through the bickering, instantly silencing the room "The status of this marriage is for the High Septon to determine"
"Your Grace, High Septon - lord Tyrion is in no fit state to consent to this marriage. Annulling it is the right thing to do" said lord Lydden
"By that logic he is no state to consent to its annulment either" said the High Septon "Both parties must request an annulment. The vows taken at marriage cannot and should not be so easily set aside"
Ser Harys shot her a glare before appealing to the High Septon "Lady Stark made vows to another man after her marriage to lord Tyrion. Surely you can see she has no real claim to him"
"This is a unique situation," agreed the High Septon "but from what Maester Henly and lady Sansa have said lord Tyrion is quite comfortable with his wife, even in his compromised state"
"That may be true" said lord Lydden "but nobody else has been permitted access to lord Tyrion. I'd wager he'd take to my daughter's care just as easily"
"Quite right" said Ser Harys "Lord Tyrion's enthusiasm for women is well known. What man wouldn't enjoy the care of a pretty woman? I mean no disrespect to lady Stark but I'd say he'd enjoy any woman's attention"
Sansa held her head high, even as sniggering broke out around the room. They were trying to undermine her and it wouldn't work.
"This is a difficult situation" said Bran "and a decision I cannot make alone. Grand Maester Samwell, what do you think should be done?"
Sam seemed to shrink into his chair as the eyes of the room fell upon him "Well...we're all sat here deciding what's best for lord Tyrion. Why not ask what he wants?"
"Lord Tyrion is in no fit state to decide what he wants" snapped Maester Gallard, his eyes burning into Samwell
"That is untrue" said Henly "Lord Tyrion is not himself, but it's quite clear what makes him comfortable and what unsettles him. His welfare must be the priority - and not politics"
"Agreed" said Bran, silencing Gallard before he could retort "High Septon, what are your thoughts?"
"I agree with the Grand Maester. Before I can decide on the validity of the marriage I'd like to see lord Tyrion with my own eyes"
"Your Grace, lord Tyrion has had only the same three visitors since he was rescued" warned Henly "Strangers entering his room will upset him"
"That may be true" said Bran, his mouth turning downwards "but it is the only way to move forwards on this matter. Lord Lydden - you and your daughter may join us. We will visit lord Tyrion and then decide on this situation"
Whispers erupted around the room at the ruling and Sansa's heart sank. She'd hoped the marriage certificate would be enough, but that wasn't the case. Control of the situation had been ripped from her hands and thrust onto Tyrion who really wasn't well enough to make a decision. It wasn't fair. He didn't understand what was at stake if she lost the hearing.
'Please Tyrion, don't let them use you' she thought
When the door opened and strange people came in Tyrion knew his time was up. He wound his hand tighter into his friend, pulling the ragged material as close to him as possible. What had he done wrong? It was true he didn't know all the rules of this room - sometimes he missed his cell - but he'd done his best to be good.
The first person who came in was the man in grey, or Maester Henly as he'd heard Missandei call him. That wasn't unusual. Sometimes the Maester would be in the room or Missandei would be. They were both nice enough, but it was Sansa he really wanted to see. A tremble went through him as more people came into the room who weren't Sansa. They were going to hurt him; the pain never stayed away for long.
He flinched as a hand landed on his arm, but it was only Missandei.
"It's ok Tyrion, you're safe" she said, offering him a smile "These people aren't here to hurt you, they just want to visit-"
"You can go girl" cut in another voice
Tyrion glanced past Missandei to find a tall man with grey hair and a badger on his tunic. The man was frowning, waving his hand dismissively at Missandei. Tyrion's heart sped up. He didn't want Missandei to leave. She wasn't Sansa but she was still nice to him - he didn't want to be alone with these strangers. The Maester was stood at the other side of the bed and he didn't look happy either.
"It's alright my lady" said the Maester "I'll remain with lord Tyrion"
Missandei frowned but nodded, causing Tyrion's stomach to twist. He tugged against the sheets pinning him to the bed but they wouldn't budge, and his ribs ached at the effort.
"I'll be back soon" promised Missandei, smoothing the blanket over him before heading towards the door
'No' he thought, squirming helplessly on the bed 'Please stay'
It was no use. Imps couldn't ask for things, and Missandei carried on out of the room - closing the door with a soft thud that sent Tyrion into a panic. He was trapped on the bed in a room full of strangers. Somehow even more of them had come in. The man with a badger tunic was stood next to a girl with long brown hair, and in the corner of the room was a portly man wearing a white robe. As Tyrion's eyes drifted over the last two strangers, he had the unnatural sense that he knew them.
The first was a boy who seemed to be sitting on a chair with wheels. His brown eyes were watching Tyrion in a way that made him distinctly uncomfortable, but there was something familiar about him too. The man next to him looked a little similar - both had dark hair and dark eyes, but this man was dressed in black and sadness seemed to be a permanent feature of his face.
Why were they here? He'd tried to be good, but it mustn't have been enough. They were here to punish him. Or maybe get rid of him. Tyrion's chest tightened as the man with a badger tunic approached him.
This was the end. Was that why Sansa wasn't here? Tyrion sniffed, heat prickling the back of his eyes. It would have been nice to see Sansa one last time - just to say thank you. She'd been so kind to him, even though he was an imp.
"It is good to see you my lord" said badger man, staring down at him "I hear your recovery is progressing well"
Tyrion didn't like this man. There was something off about him. His tone was friendly but it was wrong - it didn't match his eyes.
Badger man gestured to the girl he'd been stood with "This is my daughter Jeyne, she's very keen to meet you my lord"
Tyrion's stomach twisted as the girl approached him. In desperation he looked to the Maester for help, but the man's face was set in a grim line. Maybe this wouldn't be so bad - nobody had hurt him yet at least.
The girl perched on the edge of the seat Sansa usually sat in and her father wandered away to the side of the room. It was all so strange. Why were they watching him? What was he supposed to do? The rules had changed again and no-one had told him. This was some kind of trick. Why did they keep calling him a lord? He wasn't a lord; he was an imp, a kinslayer, a little monster. They should know that. Cersei had made sure everybody would know.
He trembled beneath the tight sheets, moving his gaze warily to the girl sat beside him. There was something lurking in her face that was so familiar, but he couldn't quite place it. Her father cleared his throat in the distance and that seemed to prompt the girl to take action.
Her mouth turned upwards, though it seemed to take a lot of effort "It is a pleasure to meet you m'lord"
Tyrion didn't answer and he didn't believe the girl. He shifted once again, hoping the sheets might loosen enough for him to move. Not that it would do much good. The last time he tried to get up his chest hurt and Sansa had told him he needed to stay still until he was better. There had to be some way to escape. Why were they all watching him? If they were going to hurt him just get on with it - he hated being stared at.
"Look at the imp!" cackled one woman
"Twisted little freak" spat another
Hands reached out pulling him into the crowd and grabbing at what had once been his private area.
"This supposed to be a lion?"
The people. The street. The laughter.
The memory washed over Tyrion like a wave of poison, pulling his mind from the present to a place more awful than any nightmare. He could almost hear the laughter ringing in his ears and feel the hands taking hold of him. The memory made his skin crawl, sending a wave of nausea rolling through him even as the image faded from his mind.
"He's not well" said the sad man, looking imploringly at the boy in the chair "we shouldn't have come in here"
"We had to be here" answered the boy, staring at Tyrion as if he could see what he had just seen
"Jeyne, perhaps lord Tyrion could use some water" prompted Badger man
A shudder went through Tyrion as the memory lingered - he didn't want to remember it. The girl had scrambled from the chair at her father's order and returned a moment later with a half-filled cup of water. He wound his fingers into his friend but it wasn't giving him the comfort it usually did. Dampness crept into the corners of his eyes as the girl leaned over him with the cup.
"Sitting up might be best dear" advised badger man through gritted teeth
Whatever was lurking in the girl's face deepened as she set the cup to one side and took hold of the sheets. She pulled them down to his waist in a single tug before she froze.
Tyrion's stomach was churning and bile was clawing up his throat, but he finally recognized the look on the girl's face. It was so familiar because he'd seen it all his life - wherever he went people looked at him with disgust.
Her eyes raked over his exposed upper body before she took two quick steps back, shaking her head.
"What are you doing?" hissed badger man
"I can't" said the girl, covering her mouth as if she too felt sick "Father, please don't make me do this"
Her father's eyes narrowed to slits "This is your duty. He's the lord of Casterly Rock"
"No...please" she begged "look at him"
They were. Everyone was looking at him, and there was no-one to help him. The dampness in his eyes spilled over, leaving trails of weakness down his cheeks. The sheets had been pulled back, giving him some freedom from his prison but his body was too weak to use it. His right arm was hanging uselessly beside him and his friend was clutched in his left hand. Tyrion ran his fingers deeper into the ragged material hoping to feel its familiar comfort, only to feel nothing.
Badger man and the girl were arguing. Voices were everywhere in the room, but all Tyrion could focus on was the patchwork blue blanket. It had been lying on top of him since Sansa gave it him last night and had been pulled away from him by the girl. The corner of it was just about in reach, but he'd have to release his friend. A tremor went through Tyrion as he let go of the rag and managed to grab the edge of the blue blanket. He pulled it closer, winding his fingers into the thick material.
"Sansa?" he said desperately, hoping her gift might offer some of her comfort.
The room fell silent at the name, making Tyrion's stomach roll once again. It was wrong to want things, but everybody was staring at him, and the memory wouldn't leave him alone. He couldn't help but think if Sansa was here things would be better, that maybe he wouldn't be so scared.
The man who'd been standing in the corner of the room moved towards him then. He was a large man dressed in a white robe with a gold coloured sash hanging over his shoulders.
"What was that lord Tyrion?" he asked gently
They were all watching again. He'd made a mistake; they would definitely hurt him now.
"Can we do anything for you?" asked the man
Tyrion shrunk into the bed, not daring to speak. They were all looking at him; waiting for an answer. His heart thumped too quickly in his chest as he glanced over all the faces in the room, before landing on the only one that might help him.
"Sansa...see Sansa please…" he whispered, staring desperately at the sad man's face "Please Jon..."
Jon?
The man's eyes widened at the name, and the rest of the strangers looked every bit as surprised as Tyrion felt. He wasn't sure where the name had come from, but it seemed right. The man was so familiar.
Jon stepped closer to the edge of the bed and Tyrion flinched back as he approached. Pieces of memory were fighting to get to the surface and if they made it Tyrion thought things might make more sense. But the memories could be bad. Like the street and the hands and the laughter.
"Don't worry Tyrion, Sansa will come and see you soon - I promise" said Jon. He glanced at the boy in the chair as if daring him to disagree.
The boy nodded, turning to the man in white who was stood beside Tyrion "Are you satisfied High Septon?"
"I've seen more than enough" said the man
"Good" said the Maester, glaring at badger man and his daughter "I believe lord Tyrion is in need of some rest"
"Agreed" said the boy in the chair "there will be a short break before the hearing resumes"
Tyrion trembled on the bed, wishing he could be anywhere else. At least in his cell he could be on his own. He was vaguely aware of the door opening and the strangers leaving, until only the Maester and the man in white remained.
"You've not had a pleasant life, have you my lord?" said the man, easing the blankets over him once more. His eyes wandered over the blue one Tyrion clutched "That is an interesting blanket"
He nodded warily, tugging it closer.
"It's new" said Maester Henly, moving to the table of supplies at the other side of the room
"Oh, it looks it" agreed the other man "Did somebody give it to you?"
Tyrion nodded again, adding softly "...from Sansa"
The man's smile widened "A thoughtful gift indeed"
"Why do you look so worried?"
"I'm not"
"If you're that worried about losing the imp just go to his room and bed him. That'll soon shut lord Lydden up"
Sansa whirled on her sister, levelling her with a glare "Don't be ridiculous, and don't call him that!"
Arya rolled her eyes "You're worrying for nothing Sansa. Even if Bran decides against you we both know Tyrion isn't going to the Westerlands"
That was true, she supposed. There wasn't a chance in the seven hells she'd let lord Lydden get Tyrion in his clutches.
"Sorry about the bedding joke" muttered Arya after a moment "I forget you're sensitive about that kind of thing"
"It's fine, I know you didn't mean it" sighed Sansa, rubbing tiredly at her face.
Arya was only trying to lighten the mood, but Sansa couldn't help but worry about the outcome of the hearing. If the High Septon dissolved her marriage to Tyrion and she took him North it could start a war.
At Maester Henly's request only a few people had been allowed to see Tyrion. Bran had decided he and the High Septon would go, along with Henly, lord Lydden and his daughter Jeyne. Sansa had wanted to go too, but the King had stubbornly refused her request claiming it could bias Tyrion's reaction. Instead she'd been allowed to choose one person to go as a witness in her place. Maester Henly was already going so Sansa had asked Jon to go too. He was the best option she had. Sansa trusted him to protect Tyrion if anything went wrong, and Tyrion was friends with him - though he was unlikely to know that in his current state.
All Sansa had been left to do was wait in the throne room until Bran continued the hearing. Varys and Sam had been talking by the throne but had been called away a few minutes ago by a squire who'd announced the hearing would resume shortly. Maester Gallard and Ser Harys were deep in discussion across the room from them, though both kept lifting their heads to glare at her.
"I didn't think you'd do it" said Arya, drawing her attention
"Do what?"
"Use the marriage certificate" said Arya, shrugging "I'm happy you finally admitted how you feel"
"I've admitted nothing" said Sansa sharply
"You claimed Tyrion as your husband in front of the King, the High Septon and a packed throne room. How do you think people will see that?"
"He's my friend" said Sansa "I'm only doing what's necessary to help him"
Arya's grey eyes searched hers "I hope you know what you're doing Sansa"
Sansa did too. In truth she had no real plan on how to navigate this hearing. Most of her planning had focused on emphasising Tyrion's need to recover with trusted faces around him rather than strangers. She'd never expected to bring up their marriage status, and handling the fallout from this would be problematic to say the least.
All thought of the potential implications of her actions was quickly swept away as the side door opened and Jon re-entered the room. His face was heavy with a guilt that made Sansa's stomach lurch.
"How is he?" she asked, as soon as Jon reached them. She ignored Arya rolling her eyes beside her.
Jon hesitated, rubbing at his face "He's alright. Better now we've gone I imagine"
"What happened?" she demanded
He shook his head "I'll tell you everything later, Bran is already on his way back in. Don't worry - the Maester and Missandei have stayed with Tyrion"
Sure enough the doors opened again and Bran returned with Varys, Sam and the High Septon. Lord Lydden had returned as well, but without his daughter. Sansa caught Jon's arm, halting his steps.
"Jon, please" she said, her voice trembling "Did he..."
She couldn't bring herself to finish the question; did Tyrion take to Jeyne Lydden? Part of Sansa wasn't sure she wanted to know the answer. Fortunately Jon understood.
"He asked for you" said Jon, a small smile on his face
Instant relief flooded Sansa, followed by warmth that spread right through her body. Was that why lord Lydden had returned without his daughter, because Tyrion had spoken her name instead? The rush of warmth flooding her was as comforting as it was dangerous. If left unchecked it threatened to expose the truth she was careful to hide.
Sansa drew in a breath as Jon and Arya returned to their seats and Bran was placed on the throne once again. Revealing her marriage status had been an unexpected development, and navigating the ramifications needed her mind to be clear. Tyrion was her friend, and she'd made a promise to him - there was nothing more to her actions than protecting him.
Varys' voice brought quiet to the room as the hearing resumed "My lords and ladies. After visiting lord Tyrion and much deliberation, the King and his advisors have reached a verdict on this matter"
Bran took over "It is the belief of this council that returning lord Tyrion to the Westerlands in his current condition is not in his best interests. On the issue of lady Sansa's request to take him North, the High Septon has further questions"
Sansa's elation at Bran's ruling was quickly drowned out by nerves. Tyrion was safe from the lords of the Westerlands but there was still work to be done to take him home. One look at the High Septon's face told Sansa where this was going - the questioning would be about their marriage. Her stomach lurched at the thought, and Sansa tried to clamp down the emotions stirring deep in her heart. This would need to be handled carefully.
"Lady Sansa, I'm aware of many of the details surrounding your marriage to lord Tyrion but I would like to clarify them if you don't mind?" said the High Septon
"Certainly" said Sansa, inclining her head
"You became a ward of Cersei Lannister following your father's death?"
"Yes, though hostage might be more accurate"
"It was during this time you were wed to Tyrion Lannister?"
"His father arranged the match after Joffrey set me aside"
The High Septon nodded along "My lady, did you make your vows willingly to lord Tyrion?"
Two different paths forward, and there was no way of knowing which would lead her to Tyrion, or what the High Septon wanted to hear. In the end Sansa decided on the truth.
"I stood in the Sept and said the words, but at the time they were just words" admitted Sansa "I was a prisoner and I didn't know Tyrion - but he was kind to me. He didn't consummate our marriage despite pressure from his father to do so"
"I see" said the High Septon "My lady, might I ask what you wish to happen? In light of the circumstances surrounding the marriage and the fact it is unconsummated I will annul it if you wish. Usually both parties must request an annulment but I will make an exception in this case"
Responsibility fell heavily around Sansa's shoulders. Whatever choice she made wouldn't just impact her but Tyrion too.
"Maybe we should have stayed married"
A soft smile drifted through her mind, along with Tyrion's melodic voice. It seemed a lifetime ago since they'd been in Winterfell. Had Tyrion meant what he said? It was impossible to know what Tyrion wanted at the moment; she only knew what he needed, and that was to go home with her. Sansa would do anything to get him there, but there had to be a way that could suit both of them. She had no idea how Tyrion felt about her, and her own feelings were buried so deeply it could take a lifetime to sort through them.
Sansa lifted her gaze to meet the High Septon's not unfriendly face "When Tyrion and I married neither of us wanted it, I can say that with certainty. When we met each other again at Winterfell...things changed. We both thought the marriage was void - we never discussed it. But over our time at Winterfell we developed a friendship..."
She trailed off, overly aware of the crowd behind her. Speaking of the North and politics was easy. Speaking of personal relations and what truly mattered was as terrifying as the long night.
"If circumstances had been different I don't know how things might have developed between us" continued Sansa, swallowing past the lump in her throat "I don't request an annulment. There's no way of knowing how Tyrion feels...but I don't want him to be on his own"
"When I saw lord Tyrion I'd say his feelings were quite clear" said the High Septon, offering her a smile "The vows of marriage are sacred and should be treated as such. Lord Tyrion cannot request an annulment in his condition, nor can he can consent to the marriage continuing. Given that he is unaware the marriage still exists I find this situation particularly difficult to rule on. I am in agreement with the King and Grand Maester that lord Tyrion should not be returned to the Westerlands, but I'm not blind to the political problems of sending him North either"
Lord Lydden was particularly quiet across the floor, but Ser Harys wasn't willing to give up.
"High Septon, at the very least the marriage should be dissolved" he said "as you say lord Tyrion isn't even aware of it"
The High Septon stared between them for a moment before shaking his head "No, I will not annul the marriage. Lady Sansa has not requested such, and lord Tyrion is in no state to"
"So you'll allow him to be taken North?" spluttered Ser Harys
"Subject to certain conditions" said Bran, silencing the man's protests
"I have offered lady Sansa the chance to annul the marriage, and when lord Tyrion has recovered sufficient awareness I will extend the same opportunity to him - subject to the union remaining unconsummated" said the High Septon
Samwell shifted in his seat "When lord Tyrion travels North he must be accompanied by a number of Lannister guards, subject to approval by the King. These guards will be under orders to remain at Winterfell unless they are given a direct order by lord Tyrion when he is in a coherent state"
Sansa nodded mutely. The Northerners wouldn't like Lannister guards coming North but she would have to make it work.
"Given the circumstances surrounding your marriage, and your illegal marriage to Ramsay Bolton I will require evidence of your commitment to lord Tyrion" said the High Septon "The sanctity of marriage is of paramount importance, and that you claim Tyrion Lannister as your husband should be made clear to all. At least until such time as he is able to make an informed decision regarding the marriage"
"How can I do that?" she asked scrunching her nose
Bran looked between Sam and the High Septon before speaking "We've decided a token of your choice will be enough. They are generally used for betrothals but in this situation you will use it signal your intentions towards lord Tyrion"
"And show Westeros you are honouring your vows as his wife" added the High Septon
Lannister guards and a token of her intentions. Sansa's mouth twitched upwards. It was a decent outcome. She could oversee Tyrion's care and bring him home, but their marriage wasn't absolute either. That had been her biggest concern - being forced to choose between annulment and committing to the marriage. One meant losing Tyrion and the other meant having to tell him they were married whether he wanted to be or not. This way nothing was final - it was a temporary arrangement that would hopefully save both of them from unwanted suitors.
"Are these terms acceptable lady Stark?" asked Bran, his dark eyes glinting at her from the throne
"Yes" she said, allowing herself a smile
"Before lord Tyrion leaves his guard must be in place and you must give him a token deemed acceptable by the High Septon before then" said Bran "The bond of marriage is sacred as the High Septon mentioned, but these are unusual circumstances. If you have a change of heart an annulment can still be granted until you present lord Tyrion with a token - at that time you will forfeit your right to an annulment, and only lord Tyrion will then have a right to request one"
That wouldn't happen; Sansa wouldn't change her mind, and Tyrion still had the option to end the marriage. She'd never anticipated it would be this difficult to take Tyrion home, but the conditions Bran had set out were easily managed and would hopefully reassure both the North and Six Kingdoms that she didn't mean to start a war.
"Very well" agreed Sansa "I accept the terms as you've outlined them"
"Wait!" growled lord Lydden, rising to his feet. His face was twisted in anger as he sneered across at her "You wanted an independent North, yet now you want to be lady Lannister too"
Sansa's face tightened and she lifted her voice to make certain the room heard "I am a Stark of Winterfell and I always will be"
Her words had the desired effect as the Northerners roared to life behind her; laughing and heckling lord Lydden.
"You want control of the West" snapped Ser Harys "Marriage to lord Tyrion means you'll be the lady of Casterly Rock. You want independence, but you'll control the West through him!"
'Like you wanted to?' she thought as the Northerners grew louder
"Tyrion is the lord of Casterly Rock, and I make no claim to his land or titles" announced Sansa, turning to Bran "I ask that the King of the Six Kingdoms assumes control of the Westerlands in the interests of both our Kingdoms, until lord Tyrion is well enough to take his rightful place"
"Done" said Bran, turning to lord Lydden and Ser Harys "Have you any further issues to raise?"
The Westerlands side of the hall wasn't happy. Maester Gallard was glaring at Sam and Ser Harys was shuffling grumpily from foot to foot, giving him a resemblance to the rooster sigil on his tunic. The Northerners didn't care at all for Tyrion, but they'd won him from the Westerlands and were keen to make that victory known.
Lord Lydden looked for a moment as if he was going to continue to argue, before stiffly bowing his head to Bran "No further issues, your Grace"
"Then I hereby bring a close to this hearing" said Bran, his mouth twitching upwards "Lady Sansa Stark will assume all control over her husband's care, including the right to take him to the independent North subject to the conditions discussed today"
Sansa couldn't help but smile as the outcome of the hearing was made official. It was done; Tyrion was safe. More than anything she wanted to go straight to Tyrion and check on him but the tiny voice of doubt reared its ugly head as it had since last night.
"…I doubt you know what happened to my brother's first wife. I never found out what happened to her after she left the Rock but I can't imagine she lasted long after abuse like that"
They were Cersei's words - surely they were lies. She should forget about them. Sansa knew who Tyrion was; she trusted him.
Sansa sighed, watching Varys as he spoke to Bran. She would know no peace until she had answers, and there were very few people who could provide them.
"You look like you've seen a ghost"
Jon felt like he had. Surely that man in the bed hadn't been Tyrion Lannister.
The light breeze that blew through Kings Landing was a welcome relief from the stifling atmosphere of the throne room. He'd lingered long enough after the hearing to tell Sansa and Arya what had happened with lord Lydden before escaping the castle for some freedom.
"How bad was it?" asked Ser Davos as they moved further from the castle
"Whatever you're imagining it's worse"
The older man sighed "I thought it'd be bad. The rumours I've heard aren't pleasant"
"I don't understand" said Jon "I've seen terrible things, but what happened to Tyrion seems crueler than anything"
"Made all the worse by who did it"
"I can't even think about that" said Jon, shaking his head "I thought Sansa hated me when we were children, but that's nothing compared to this"
"At least your sister won the hearing. Letting lord Lydden near Tyrion didn't sit right with me"
"It wasn't right" said Jon, disgust crawling through him "His daughter was all smiles until she actually saw Tyrion. The way she looked at him…Davos it was wrong. No-one deserves to be treated like that"
"Poor sod. He's not got any idea what's going on either"
"I don't know how he'll recover from this" said Jon, stopping at the top of the hill "I should have stopped Daenerys sooner. When she turned on Tyrion I should have intervened"
Davos patted his shoulder "This isn't your fault"
"Yes it is" said Jon, spotting the familiar black shape of Drogon in the distance sky "It fell to Sansa to fix my mistakes and now she's picking up the pieces. I should have done more. I knew she cared for Tyrion and I did nothing to help him"
"You were in love yourself" said Ser Davos "No-one blames you for wanting to see the best in Daenerys. Tyrion trusted her too, and willingly agreed to the exchange"
"Aye, but she betrayed him and then his sister tortured him for weeks…I can't understand it Davos. The politics and cruelty of this place - no wonder my family doesn't do well in Kings Landing"
"You won't be staying with Bran then?"
"No, I'll go back North with Sansa and then go beyond the wall. I'd like to return to the true North"
Davos nodded "You'll excuse me if I don't follow ya. Your brother Bran has asked me to stay here as his Master of Ships"
Jon smiled "I can't think of anyone better"
"I can, but I'm not going to tell him. I'll keep an eye on Bran for ya, don't worry about that"
Jon nodded gratefully, but it wasn't Bran he was worried about. Sansa was balancing so many things on her shoulders with little help. As soon as they went North she would be named Queen and her burden would get heavier. Jon knew he would be no real help to her, and Arya was much the same. It was obvious enough whose help Sansa would want, but Tyrion was in no position to give it.
Varys observed his guest as she sipped her wine. The hearing had gone on far longer than anyone expected and Varys had been quite certain the lady of Winterfell would go straight to Tyrion when it was done. It wasn't long after he returned to the Tower of the Hand that lady Sansa arrived.
"I must say I'm surprised by your visit my lady" confessed Varys "Surely you don't mean to leave Kings Landing immediately?"
It took her a moment to respond "Oh no. Tyrion isn't well enough to travel yet. The Maester wants to set his shoulder in the next day or so and he'll need a few days to recover after that before we can move him"
Varys nodded. That was what he'd expected to happen, but it only made lady Sansa's reason for being here more intriguing - she wasn't prone to social visits.
"There's the trial for Cersei Lannister and Qyburn too" said Varys "I assume you'll want to be here for that"
Her face hardened "Of course. What they did to Tyrion was monstrous"
"Without doubt. King Bran is organising the case against them and showed me some of the evidence he'd gathered"
The mere thought of the jars made his skin crawl. Varys had seen many monsters in his time but this was somehow worse. A fact he blamed on his fondness for Tyrion Lannister. Lady Sansa's face had darkened at the mention of the jars, but the upcoming trial didn't seem to be the reason for her visit either. It was obvious she'd come to talk about something, and Varys had only one idea left.
"I understand you made a visit last night" said Varys "how was the fallen Queen?"
Sansa's blue eyes snapped to his, confirming his suspicion "You have spies everywhere don't you, lord Varys?"
He shrugged "I may have been away from Kings Landing for some time but my little birds haven't left. Qyburn found a number of them, but not all of them"
The young woman slumped in her seat "I don't know why I went - she was as vile as ever. I think I just wanted to see her in a cell"
"Many would share your enthusiasm for that"
"She deserves to suffer"
"If that's what troubles you my lady, I can assure you King Bran intends for you to join him in deciding Cersei's fate"
She nodded, biting her lip - an action Varys found wholly out of place for Sansa Stark, who had marched on Kings Landing with relentless determination. Whatever she'd come to him for wasn't to do with politics.
"Is something troubling you my lady?" he asked softly
Sansa dropped her gaze, staring at the wine glass as she spoke "When I was leaving, Cersei said something that I can't get out of my head"
"What did she say?"
Her voice was barely above a whisper "She said Tyrion had been married before, that she doubted his first wife lasted long after abuse like that"
Anger slipped through Varys like a snake as Sansa admitted what had happened. Part of him couldn't help but admire Cersei's ability to manipulate. She'd managed to take a terrible crime and turn it into a weapon against Sansa - one that would speak to the lady of Winterfell's most personal fears.
"My lady, I fear it's not my place to tell this story"
She lifted her eyes to his, and for a moment Varys could see the pool of vulnerability lurking beneath the layers of ice. Of course she would worry. It was easy to see how deeply she cared for Tyrion - she'd spent most of the afternoon fighting to take him to Winterfell, and gone so far as to claim him as her husband. She'd done all of these things despite the vicious seeds of doubt Cersei had planted last night, but she couldn't control her fear any longer. That was why she was here; to know if the man she'd just claimed as hers had a dark side she was unaware of.
Varys sighed, nodding his head "Very well. I do know what Cersei was speaking of but she has given you a rather twisted impression of it"
"It's true?" asked Sansa, sadness passing through her eyes
"Not in the way you think" said Varys "though it is a thoroughly unpleasant tale. Are you sure you want to hear this?"
Sansa nodded "Please. I know Tyrion - I trust him. I just can't..."
She trailed off but Varys knew what she was going to say.
"I will tell you what I know, but my knowledge does not come from lord Tyrion himself. When he came to Kings Landing to serve as Hand of the King in his father's stead I made certain to know everything about him - including his first marriage" said Varys "When Tyrion was ten and six he was out with his brother Jamie when they happened across a young woman. She was a wheelwright's orphan and had been the victim of an attempted rape. Jamie chased off the attackers, and Tyrion took the young lady to an inn to recover from the ordeal. I believe they ate and drank and Tysha took lord Tyrion into her bed. By morning he'd fallen in love with her and they were married by a drunken Septon"
Sansa was trying to keep a neutral face as she listened, but her eyes were filled with a sadness Varys couldn't quite place.
"He loved her?" asked Sansa
"He did" said Varys "They lived as husband and wife for two weeks until lord Tywin found out. Lord Tywin had them both brought to Casterly rock and ordered Jamie to confess. You see Tysha wasn't a wheelwrights orphan - she was a whore. Do not think too badly of Ser Jamie. He genuinely loved his little brother and thought it was time he had a woman. I believe his idea was to give Tyrion some confidence by letting him believe a woman genuinely wanted to share his bed. He never imagined Tyrion would marry the girl"
"His father had the marriage annulled?"
"Yes, though I fear that isn't the end of the story" said Varys, his stomach churning "After Jamie confessed to his brother, lord Tywin had Tysha brought to the barracks and had his guards take her. He made sure Tyrion watched everything"
Sansa drew in a sharp breath, her hand covering her mouth.
"Tywin ordered each guard who took her to pay her a silver coin. By the end the coins were spilling from her hands. When it was over she was sent from Casterly Rock and the marriage was annulled"
Tears slipped down Sansa's face, but her voice was laced with anger "How...how could anyone be that cruel?"
"Lord Tywin hated Tyrion, and was furious that his son dared to wed a commoner. What happened with Tysha was both a cruel lesson and a punishment"
"What happened to her?"
Varys shook his head "That I do not know. It took place many years ago. If I'd known of it at the time I might have been able to locate her, but it would be impossible now. Lord Tywin did his best to keep that story hidden, but guards talk and I caught the whispers of it when I looked into lord Tyrion's past"
The young woman wiped at her eyes, drawing in several deep breaths.
"My lady, please do not think too badly of lord Tyrion. He fell in love with the first woman who showed an interest in him, not knowing his brother had arranged the meeting"
"How could I think badly of Tyrion?" asked Sansa, her blue eyes hardening "None of that was his fault"
"He made the mistake of marrying a commoner" said Varys, spreading his hands "No woman who was nearly raped would then take another man to bed a few hours later - he should have seen that"
"He was young, he didn't know any better" said Sansa, adding in a whisper "he thought it was love"
Varys paused, watching the lady of Winterfell. It occurred to him Tyrion wasn't the only one who'd once foolishly believed in love.
"Does this alleviate your concerns regarding lord Tyrion?" he asked
Sansa pushed up clumsily from her chair "Yes...thank you"
She nodded her head in thanks before shuffling towards the door. Of all the things Varys had thought she might be here to discuss he'd never imagined it might be Tysha. He watched Sansa leave before turning to the stack of paper on his desk. If nothing else this encounter had proven Cersei could still cause problems from the black cells.
Finding Tyrion asleep was both a blessing and a curse. According to Missandei he'd barely slept all day and seemed determined to stay awake before eventually drifting off. A lump formed in Sansa's throat as she adjusted the blankets over him. After what Jon had told her it wasn't hard to imagine what he'd been staying awake for.
Poor Tyrion. He'd been surrounded by strangers, and Jeyne Lydden had been too disgusted to even pretend to care for him. He must have been so scared, and in his fear he'd asked for her. Warmth trickled through Sansa, easing a little of the coldness that had gripped her since talking to Varys.
How could she have even entertained the idea Cersei was telling the truth?
'I'm so sorry Tyrion' she thought 'I never should have doubted you'
Shame ate at Sansa's heart for what she'd feared. Of course Tyrion had been the victim and not the monster. Tywin Lannister was a monster though. How anyone could do that to their own son was disturbing beyond belief. Tyrion might have been naive and made a foolish mistake but forcing him to watch the woman he'd been in love with be repeatedly raped was nothing short of traumatising.
That had happened years ago, yet Cersei had still been willing to use it against her brother. Twisting the narrative to make it seem as if Tyrion had been an abusive husband - and like a fool Sansa had let the idea take root. It was no more than a vicious lie. She could imagine Tyrion had been a doting husband during his two week marriage, unaware his wife had deceived him and blissfully ignorant of the consequences that would follow.
She reached for Tyrion's hand, folding hers around his as he clutched the blue blanket she'd given him. According to Henly he'd abandoned the ragged one in favour of this when he asked for her.
"You're my husband" she whispered "for now at least. I promise I won't hurt you Tyrion"
She'd already decided to not tell Tyrion of the hearing and their marriage. When he was strong enough she would tell him, but in his current condition she didn't want to confuse him - or make it seem like she was manipulating him. The lords of the Westerlands needed no more reason to dislike her and telling him of their marriage when he couldn't fully understand it seemed wrong.
The hearing had been a convoluted mess of politics and power plays, but Sansa couldn't argue with the results. She had waived her right to an annulment and would need to find a token to give Tyrion, but it wasn't a permanent situation. When Tyrion was well enough he could end the marriage. Something twisted deep in Sansa at the thought, but she quickly pushed it aside. That didn't matter now; there would be time to figure everything out when they were home.
Tyrion's face tightened as he slept, a barely audible moan slipping from him.
"Shh, you're ok" she soothed, stroking her fingers against his cheek
As if Jeyne Lydden would know how to settle him. Jon had told her the girl's eyes had filled with disgust as soon as she saw Tyrion, and she had quickly given up the pretense of caring for him. Sansa's jaw tightened at the thought; why was everybody so cruel to him? He was different, but he was still human. He had thoughts, feelings, hopes and dreams too. As horrible as it was for Tyrion Jeyne Lydden's reaction had quickly ended her father's hopes of ensnaring him.
It was almost laughable that the girl had thought herself capable of charming Tyrion - she was no Margaery Tyrell. Besides, the girl wouldn't have known how to care for him. She wouldn't know that stroking his face was the best way to lull him back to sleep, or how sensitive he was to anyone touching the scar on his hand and the one around his knee. There was so much more to Tyrion than a name and his size, but no-one other than her seemed to see it.
Tyrion squirmed against the sheets holding him still, his face twisting in fear. Another nightmare. Maester Henly told her it was a good sign, and that he'd recognised Jon today was very promising. The more Tyrion remembered the more he would remember what he'd suffered though.
"Tyrion" she called softly, shaking his arm "you're safe Tyrion, open your eyes"
It was important he slept, but Sansa hated seeing him trapped in nightmares. Besides, she wanted to see his eyes. All day she'd been kept away from him. It might be selfish, but part of her needed to see him awake.
He struggled for a few more moments before his eyes opened.
"Hello" she said, drawing his attention
Instantly the fear melted from his eyes, replaced by a hopeful light "Sansa?"
A smile stretched across her face as she answered "I'm sorry it took me so long today, but I'm here now"
He smiled slightly, tugging his blanket closer. The ragged one was dangling at the side of the bed and Henly had suggested leaving it there for now, until they were completely sure Tyrion had left it behind.
"Did you have a good day?" she asked
Tyrion shook his head nervously "...missed you"
Sansa's heart swelled as she answered "I missed you too"
"What news do you have?" asked Cersei, studying the guard's face
This one had come before with an older guard to ask for the names of any witnesses she wanted to call on at trial but he'd returned alone twice since. Well he wasn't really alone. The Unsullied guards were watching and as soon as he came near her cell they had their spears at the ready. Alone, Malcolm wasn't allowed into her cell but that hardly mattered - Cersei had soon realized the unsullied didn't speak the common tongue. When he came to see her he brought the same folded letter with the Hand of the King seal. It was a useless document - all it contained was details on cleaning up Kings Landing from the battle. Nobody else knew that. The Unsullied saw a document they couldn't read with an official seal and let Malcom come to her cell door.
"She won the hearing" said Malcolm "she's going to take him North"
"And?" she demanded "What else?"
Malcolm was eager to please, but that was to be expected. Cersei had quite convinced him she was his only chance for survival.
His eyes lit up "Turns out they're still married"
"Impossible"
"It wasn't annulled" said Malcolm, as if it was interesting gossip "She wants the marriage to carry on too! The High Septon offered to annul it but she said no"
No. That couldn't be possible. Cersei's hands curled into fists as hot rage burned through her veins. The Stark bitch could not be allowed to get her hands on Casterly Rock.
"This is good news right?" said Malcolm "If he goes North he's not going to care about punishing us"
Cersei fought to control her face "No, if anything your situation has become far worse. If the wolves control my little brother they will act on his behalf, and I don't expect the Northerners will have forgotten the years of war between us. She came here last night you know - I know she plans on revenge"
The colour drained from his face "What?"
"It's more important than ever you complete your task"
He nodded quickly "I've not forgot - the imp dies"
"Yes. When he dies all knowledge of who hurt him dies too, and the wolves will have no claim to the Westerlands"
"Don't worry, we'll handle it" said Malcolm, nervously bobbing his head
Good. When Tyrion was dead she would be the last Lannister. A trial would be difficult to win, but her brother's death would improve her chances. His side of the story would be lost forever and Qyburn would back whatever lies she told. Even if she did lose, the war was far from over. Cersei had no intention of going peacefully to her death, and the divide in the Lannister ranks offered her plenty of opportunities.