A Song of Conquerors and Protectors: Fire Will Reign

by Nravetasse

Prince Rhaegar Targaryen is leading the realm into violence and unrest, that much was obvious. But Aerion's place has always been to serve and to obey, not to question. "The realm still remembers the madness that overtook your great-grandfather." His father had explained, "And so, we cannot let the Crown doubt our loyalty, for we will be prosecuted with fire and blood."

22. Show of Strength, Show of Weakness

Author's Note:

Happy 2024 and I very much appreciate all your kind messages and comments. Despite the long wait, I hope you all enjoy this new chapter!

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Chapter 22: Show of Strength, Show of Weakness

Sow's Horn, Crownlands, 283 AC

Jon Arryn first requested to release all three rebel Lord Paramounts to their family seats. When that appeared to be unattainable, the rebel lord demanded the right to foster Benjen Stark, Renly Baratheon, and Edmure Tully in the Eyrie until the boys' ages of majority.

It was understandable that Lord Arryn worried for the future of his allies.

For Winterfell and Storm's End, without the heirs they spent two decades grooming in Brandon Stark and Robert Baratheon, and great losses of their most loyal bannermen, they emerge out of the war with only a semblance of influence in their native Kingdoms.

The ask for Edmure Tully was out of concern for protecting a goodbrother. Lord Arryn outlined how close his wife is to her brother, and how Edmure can learn duty and governance from the Eyrie's sworn houses.

Unfortunately, Edmure had already been promised, by the Rosby twins acting for the Crown, to Lord Frey as a ward and future goodson.

After some thought, Aerion proposed different assurances such that history won't be induced to repeat itself.

Aerion could not retract on the compromises the Rosby twins have accepted. Since the safety of the child seemed to be a priority, Brynden Tully will be permitted to join young Edmure's retinue throughout the boy's stay at the Twins.

Benjen Stark was drawn to the Night's Watch.

This news was surprising to hear from House Frey, though it was one that the Crown has no intention to oppose. As such, the Crown has not insisted wardship of Benjen at a southern castle.

For further assurances to House Stark, Lady Caitlyn and her newborn will be excused from joining their march to King's Landing. When her babe comes, the mother and child can wait at Riverrun for her lord husband's return.

Renly Baratheon will be a ward at Stonehelm. To allow some strength to House Baratheon as they face pressure from House Swann from the south and House Grandison from their north, Stannis Baratheon will have the Crown's blessing to marry a House Buckler daughter.

The Lord of Stonedance waited for these arrangements to make practical sense to the older lord.

He stood outside the prison cells, knowing that his counteroffers far from humiliate the Great Houses that have, for the most part of the past three hundred years, thrived alongside Targaryen rule.

The war council directed their fastest riders to deliver Jon Arryn's private letter to Eddard Stark on the causeway. Ser Donniger, being someone familiar to Lord Eddard, accompanied the group to confirm the validity of his liege's decision.

Hoster Tully was last to receive word, when they were ready to release the rebel nobility into improved accommodations.

Raymun Darry arranged for Jon Arryn to stay in the same chamber as Lord Tully, and encouraged their debate by serving a small jar of wildfire alongside their first supper together.

On roughly the same few days, Eddard Stark surrendered to Kamden Rosby before House Frey's witnesses. The fresh army that the Stark lord led, in noticeably more modest fittings than the army at the Trident, disbanded on the causeway, hours' ride north of the Crossing.

During the subsequent feast, Lord Walder praised the sensible decision of his own liege to make peace, and toasted the renewed friendship between the Riverlands and all their neighbours.

Lord Walder further announced a betrothal between the heir to Rosby and his fourth trueborn daughter.

Many of his guests made for fine prospects and he would have loved to share more good news, but regrettably, his later daughters are still too young.

Confirming that his House will soon host the heir to Riverrun, Lord Frey invited Lord Roose Bolton's eldest to spend time at the Twins as a page. The invitation sounded the utmost earnest, that even after efforts by Lord Bolton and Lord Eddard to defer this privilege, Lord Walder still secured three years of receiving the heir to the Dreadfort.

By the next morning, four of Lord Frey's sons, accompanying Lady Kaelyn, departed with half of House Frey's garrison to take over defences at Riverrun.

Ser Kamden and his Crownlands retinue departed at the same time, but to escort Lord Eddard Stark further south.

The latest from Dorne was that Lady Lyanna is vulnerable to childbed fever.

The risk seemed so great that Lord Aerion ordered for House Dondarrion and House Dayne to send their Maesters on horseback to the Prince's Pass.

Upon learning that Ser Brune awaits at Castle Darry to guide his party, Lord Stark opted to send a letter to his lady wife, so that he may ride for Dorne before going to her and their firstborn.

However tempting it felt, the Rosby twins dared not to write back to the Lord of Stonedance for details, including how the abducted sister of the Lord of Winterfell found herself with child, whether Lady Lyanna's child would have a noble surname, or how her party might hope to leave Dorne without alerting House Martell.

These were the first pieces of news on Lady Lyanna since the Crown Prince disappeared with her in the Riverlands, more than a year prior.

The twins' intuition told them that it was best to not interfere, or even react to these private instructions from the Lord of Stonedance, at least not until the wider Crownlands war council learns of the same knowledge.

Lord Aerion had the talent to command, to rule. He is approachable to the nobles, yet firm when matters become contentious.

At the same time, a legitimate son of Prince Rhaegar, or one from the Queen on Dragonstone, if handled poorly, would sow the seeds for uncertainty.

Under dense clouds and shortly before heavy rains at Castle Darry, every noble-born gathered for the surrender of the Vale and the Riverlands.

In plain robes, Jon Arryn and Hoster Tully knelt on the courtyard dais and swore their renewed loyalty to the Targaryen Iron Throne. Their bannermen knelt on the stone tiles behind the high lords and repeated the same oaths.

The Septons from Maidenpool, Lychester Keep, and Harrenhal joined Castle Darry's Septon to lead a prayer for mercy, amnesty, and peace. The gathered priests recorded what they observed in letters addressed to the High Septon, of which a band of holy brothers have vowed to safely deliver to the falsely-taken capital.

More ravens then flew from the Maester's tower, to announce the end of Robert's Rebellion to the seat of each Great House, along with the Twins, Dragonstone, and Stonedance.

To demonstrate the Crown's goodwill, the Targaryen lord and the Lord of Highgarden gave Lord Hoster the option to return to his family seat, rather than making an arduous trip to the capital with the Crown's army.

Eager to attend to Riverlands affairs, and with his eldest daughter preparing for her firstborn, Lord Tully agreed to share the duties of defending Riverrun against Westerlands threats with the Crown's delegates in Kaelyn Rosby and House Frey.

By Lord Tully's estimate, the few royalist nobles that his castle held from the start of the war, including the head of House Darry and a pair of his youngest children, will be long released by the time of his return.

Lord Hoster's thoughts had flowed faster than his strides to the Castle Darry stables. He had not a moment to waste, for the Rosby girl could render his home and castle unrecognizable the longer he was away. The rain would surely hit him during the ride west, but that was hardly consequential against the prospect of home.

A fortnight after the rebel lords' surrender, the Crown's armies were making steady progress along the Kingsroad, nearing Castle Hayford.

The Reach's cavalry led as the vanguard, supported by scouts to keep distance between them and unexpected foes from the Goldroad.

At the back of the procession, Maidenpool's host and newly surrendered Riverrun bannermen looked out for messages relayed from Castle Darry or Harrenhal.

The news that House Swann and its Stormlands allies will meet the Westerlands army out of Deep Den relaxed the tight pace of their march south.

The army could finally camp earlier in the night and cook up hot meals for the soldiers, making use of a longer mid-day rest.

Before this assurance from Lord Gawen, Lord Fossoway's eight thousand troops were positioned to block the Westerlands reinforcements.

Away in the north, the second army out of Golden Tooth is now too far to make a difference.

Decimating Lannister reinforcement on the Goldroad was the last hindrance to the siege of King's Landing.

It wasn't ideal, countering the seasoned Lord Marbrand with the genial Jon Fossoway, for Lord Jon has never fought anything grimmer than clearing bandits by the mouth of the Mander.

And so, when Lord Gawen described that he had already devised a plan against Lord Marbrand, and that he was willing to test out his forces, the Crown's war council arranged for Lord Fossoway to clear out of the Goldroad and focus instead on meeting the royalist troops outside the capital.

Win or lose, House Swann's troops will delay Lord Marbrand that Lord Aerion can reach King's Landing whilst Tywin Lannister is still barricaded in the Red Keep.

Ser Terrence Celtigar took a deep breath of the still evening air. His mind wandered as he surveyed their soldiers conversing amongst themselves or jumping into friendly wrestling games.

Lord Tywin was probably right to bet that the North, the Vale, and the Riverlands' surrender stood on shaky ground.

If the Reach were to see heavy losses with Jon Fossoway, and Lord Aerion's main army struggles to take back the capital, then House Targaryen would be too weak to bar the Great Houses, or the principle Houses of each Kingdom who saw their liege lord decline, to claim independent rule.

After the violent breach of the Red Keep, a battle on the Goldroad is the Westerlands' next opportunity to show their strength. Lord Marbrand knows of the consequences and according to reports from Lord Fossoway, the Westerlands had sent a legion of almost all disciplined soldiers, unlike the great portion of levies who were at the Trident.

Ser Terrence tried to calm the expanding feeling in his chest, a feeling that would wash over him whenever he looked out to the expanses of hilltops.

On the morrow, they will be closer to Hayford than to Sow's Horn. Beyond the grasslands, forests and villages is a lone House in rebellion, the last enemy to be defeated.

The Crown's army camped off of the Kingsroad for the night. Their carriages and crates of supplies became makeshift barricades where the perimeter was wide.

The camp was busy but orderly, and reminded him of the first high-spirited nights at High Heart.

Neat rows of campfire lit up the surrounding fields, though no one could make out anything past a hundred or so yards.

Terrence was looking forward to bedtime. The night before, he had chatted into the morning hours with his brother about stories from their childhood. Very soon, they wanted to trust, they would bring their soldiers home.

He passed by Lord Rykker taking supper with a circle of Duskendale's banner knights.

When his tent was within sight, he longed for the lightness when he was rid of the armour that had weighed down his arms and shoulder all day.

"Ser Terrence!"

Half turning around, Terrence took in the garb of the grandson of Lord Frey and Lady Cyrenna Swann.

Ser Tytos Frey has been overly curious about him after hearing from guards that the Lord of Stonedance valued his former squire's counsel, often over the proper lordlings and landed knights.

Knowing that Lord Frey sent out certain of his growing sons and grandsons to earn them better prospects, Terrence politely asked about Ser Tytos' time with the Reach's patrols.

Ser Tytos shrugged and picked something slightly notable to share. He took the chance to eye the second son from House Celtigar, who was younger and generally shyer than him.

Ser Tytos wondered if the new knight fully appreciated the privilege of the Targaryen lord's affinity towards him, to have the ear of the future King.

At the Twins, his father was rarely top of mind to his lord grandfather.

If not for House Swann gaining station outside of the Stormlands, he and his sister, Kyra, would have no standing to represent their House before high nobles of the realm.

He knew he would have been promised to a Blanetree girl, one who was raised in a keep just larger than a common farmhouse. One of his uncles will have her now, and never get to leave the corner of the Riverlands where he was born and raised.

Terrence's polite response met a blank stare from Ser Tytos.

Shifting half a step back, Terrence hoped that he could slip away before the Frey knight broke from his contemplation.

"Wait, wait. I saw, last time, that Lord Rykker and Lord Tarly attended Lord Aerion's audience, but today, he didn't seem to call any commanders from the Reach."

"I'm really not in a position to –"

"And your lord brother? House Celtigar is sworn to Dragonstone and has declared for the Iron Throne ever since the Red Keep called the Crown's banners. Shouldn't both of you be sought for counsel, for strategy and duties?"

"We both serve however we are asked to, Ser," Terrence was within a dozen paces from his bed and covers. "The night grows late. If I can be excused –"

"Neither of us has morning patrols, yes? You must try my crate of wine from the ironborn. Costed me a handful of gold dragons yet I keep going back to them."

"Please know that I appreciate –"

Daaaaaaaa! Daaaaaaaa! Terrence's head snapped to the piercing call of battle trumpets.

As Terrence and Ser Tytos regained their full hearing, the trumpets cut through the air again with the same intensity, echoing in their ears. This time, they could tell that it came from the opposite end of their camp.

Daaaaaaaa! Daaaaaaaa!

"Lord Tyrell and Lord Redwyne set their tents on that side," Ser Tytos confirmed during a gap, "I was there tonight, to take supper with Ser Olyvar and Lord Grandison."

"These guards will follow you to defend the camp, Ser. Go, if you don't mind, before Lord Tyrell is harmed!" Terrence saw that the Crownlands soldiers around them were reaching for weapons and armour. "I will check on Lord Aerion and soon join you."

Ser Tytos wanted to follow Terrence, but the younger knight had already put some distance between them. Heaving a sigh, the Frey grandson waved a passing guard to bring him a horse.

Terrence pushed through the soldiers who were quickly gathering to reach Lord Aerion's camp. Soldiers in Crownlands colours called to each other, hurling the slower moving soldiers to their feet.

House Swann had assured that their army would soon engage with Lord Marbrand's host.

The other army out of Golden Tooth is too far north to be launching this attack. They should be, at least.

More calls of the trumpet struck his ear. Clashes of steel and increased wails of men, although still distant, drove him faster on his feet.

There were no other enemy armies along the Kingsroad, unless it was one of the newly surrendered high lords.

Ser Colin held open Lord Aerion's tent flaps to let out some commanders and knights who had sought commands earlier. Crownlands knights grabbed horses and soldiers nearest to them and hurried off.

Whispering a thanks to Ser Colin, Terrence lowered his head to enter his liege's tent.

Lord Renfred Rykker stepped inside two paces after Terrence. The heavy tent flaps cut off the commotion outside, leaving the small crowd to take in the gentle incense of Lord Aeron's Pentoshi sealing wax.

Lord Aerion was behind his desk with Ser Barristan at his side, standing at the Kingsguard's full height.

"My guards are sure that the first wave of horsemen bore the Lannister sigil. It can only be part of the army from Deep Den." The Lord of Duskendale did not use his gravest tone, "They don't have enough numbers for a long line of attack, so they picked the head of the camp."

"The Reach leads our formation. Lords Tyrell, Redwyne, Tarly, Rowan all stay on that end." Ser Barristan said, "House Grandison and House Crabb already went to defend, but we should send more guards."

"We outnumber this attacking legion four or five to one, they must know that just from observing the campground perimeters." Renfred shook his head, "Who would order such an attack?"

"We should ask these questions later," A landed knight from Massey's Hook grunted, "Lord Mace cannot suffer any harm."

"But without exposing the rear of the camp. Maybe Lord Celtigar, the rest of Hayford levies, and House Mooton's host should stay put where they are." Another knight cautioned.

"Go to Lord Mace, Renfred. Take your fighters and the Stonedance garrison. Terrence, Ser Cave, and Ser Colin can accompany you." Lord Aerion agreed, "Everyone else stays put in their camp but ready yourselves – Ser Manning, you'll bring my word."

"Aye." Renfred and the named knights moved right away.

Ser Colin again held up the tent flaps for the men to exit. "My lord, I should be by your side. I can send my deputies in my stead?"

Terrence glanced backwards to catch Aerion's quick nod. The Celtigar brother heard Ser Colin call to fetch his deputies as he sped up to catch up to the Lord of Duskendale.

Inside, the tent fell quiet to the Targaryen lord and the Kingsguard.

"The Maidenpool host guards our prisoners, including Westerlands nobles. We should not divert any from those posts."

"Of course."

"That said, we don't know if another holding nearby has conspired with the Westerlands. There are a handful of landed households in the region." Ser Barristan said.

"Our defences are strong, and Lord Tarly is supposed to be on patrol tonight. His guards are ready to fight." Aerion tapped his finger on the desk. "I'm curious as to why they targeted the head of camp, when I'm on this end."

Ser Barristan rubbed his brow. The flying banners were easy to read, even at night.

"Maybe they were spotted and had to strike. Capturing Lord Mace can also force the Reach out of the war."

"They need their full army to meet my grandfather." Aerion analyzed, "Unless Tywin ordered this, Lord Marbrand would not take the risk."

"They can try to stall us on the Kingsroad for the Golden Tooth army to circle south." Ser Barristan offered, "Gerion Lannister is leading that army now, and by most accounts he is holding that army together well enough."

"We are much closer to Oberyn's host than Gerion Lannister is to us. Dorne's forces are ready and the royal fleet is ready. We all expect to retake the capital as soon as we congregate."

"It is useful for Westerlands morale if they manage to disrupt our march and see us lose a few noble commanders." Ser Barristan said after a pause, "Tywin could be running out of plans to make from the Red Keep."

Even then, there was still plenty to do. Lord Hugh Grandison executed another three Stonedance guards and servants who followed Lannister orders to approach Baelor in private.

Queen Rhaella, on Dragonstone, now switches meals with her Kingsguards and bathes without help.

The tent flaps opened and let in faint shouts and retorts.

Ser Colin admitted himself, with five more Stonedance guards following behind. The last guard to come inside secured the flaps shut with the attached ropes.

Ser Barristan cut through the tent to stand between Aerion and the group of soldiers. His hand never left the grip of his sword, "Colin?"

Aerion stood from behind the desk and watched his captain of the guards, who calmly gestured for his men to unsheathe their weapons.

The guards lined up in a semicircle, swords drawn to their chests. The thick tent drapery blocked out all noise on either side, a function they replied on when they shared matters of strategy.

"Don't do this, Colin." Ser Barristan warned. His sword was positioned in defence.

The Kingsguard had his sword on him, but Aerion's weapon was leaning on a side rack, out of reach.

It was the best opportunity that Colin could find, when the Targaryen lord had sent off his closest bannermen and when the skirmish can still draw the camp's attention.

The guards here and stationed outside are his own and know what they ought to do.

"You have been privy to our strategy, our negotiations, and just last week attended Jon Arryn and Hoster Tully's surrender. You should know that House Lannister's defeat is a matter of time."

Ser Barristan recognized most of the guards in the tent from training at Castle Darry. He noted the stronger fighters from the rest when he spoke to the group.

"House Lannister's defeat or victory is in my hands, with your life," Ser Colin tilted his sword up at his lord, "I would have served you faithfully, you know, if you weren't blind to my leadership of the army."

"Drop your weapons, and Lord Aerion will allow you to leave the camp unharmed, for your prior service to Stonedance." Ser Barristan wondered how many more of Colin's men were outside, keeping a calm scene. Six guards for protection was the usual arrangement.

"Desperate are we, Ser Barristan? Mi'lord gave me command over two hundred crossbowmen, just how many do you think are outside, protecting his lordship's safety?"

"You swore your life and service to Stonedance, as did each man of the garrison outside. If Colin Waters is threatening you with your families, stand down and you will not be at fault for his crimes." The Kingsguard offered to the guards.

To their credit, the semicircle of attackers kept their swords steady and their faces blank.

"When Ser Grant was captain, I never had to worry about my soldiers caught drunken on patrol, or fighting each other over bribes from our prisoners. I do not hear the garrison speak praises of you, Colin, just passive obeyance or complaint." Aerion's tone was slightly amused, "You will injure our cause incurably, wielding any higher authority."

"That's because you reverse my orders in front of common levies. You make a sport of it, causing my humiliation." Ser Colin snapped. "You've already decided not to trust me as you trusted Ser Grant. I personally stood on guard for your audiences when he wouldn't, not to mention how lazy he became at training after he got raised to captain –"

"Idiot boy!" Ser Barristan took over to buy time, "Lord Aerion was just discussing gifting you Hayford for your service at the Trident, High Heart, and retake of the capital. A proper holding for your sons and grandsons."

Colin snorted, "It is due time for the Targaryen dynasty to fall, if saving the life of its heir, countless times, is merely worth Hayford castle." The captain was about to gesture his men to strike.

"Tywin Lannister will never trust a servant who would harm their lord and liege. Agreeing to this already sealed your fates." Aerion surveyed the faces who wore his sigil and colours. "You are all incredibly short sighted. The fault lies with me for overlooking your characters."

Colin's face did not flush. Another soldier or two blinked blankly.

Aerion couldn't pull his gaze away but knew that he only needed to take two steps back for his sword.

The front-most attackers slashed their swords towards Ser Barristan's head but were thrown away by the Kingsguard's bracer. Ser Barristan elbowed a third fighter at their rib, earning him a sharp intake of breath and boots stumbling backwards.

Ser Colin's first strike hit Aerion's wooden table when Aerion kicked it between them. The force knocked off a candle holder with two burning candle sticks. The flames quickly snuffed out as they hit the soft dirt.

Before the Stonedance captain could push past the table, Aerion pulled out his leather glove from a side pocket and smacked at each burning flame.

Within seconds, the small tent was engulfed in darkness.

They heard heavy steel slice through the air and plunge into flesh. The victim let out a whimper and buckled over in their armour.

Swords met in the darkness and bounced off each other. If Ser Barristan shifted from his pose, he coincided his steps exactly to the clang of blades.

Estimating that Ser Colin was trying to squeeze around the table, Aerion shoved the furniture sharply to his left, aiming the sharp corner at Ser Colin's thighs.

The table hit armour and Aerion ducked from a powerful blow.

"He's looking for the sword!" Ser Colin reminded his men.

Forcing himself to take quiet and shallow breaths, Aerion crouched to lean back for his sword.

Ser Colin and a fellow fighter made sweeping slashes at waist height, searching for their target.

"Round them to the far corner!" Different voices answered their commander's call.

At the front of the tent, Ser Barristan held off at least three fighters without a word. Sometimes there were hisses of pain and other times there were punches against armour.

There was a suppressed gasp and Aerion hoped it wasn't from the Kingsguard.

Sensing that the guard next to Ser Colin was pulling back their extended sword and arm, Aerion grabbed tightly to pull him towards the floor. The fighter cursed out loud having lost his balance.

Aiming the fighter's arm and extended sword, Aerion slashed forward to hit Ser Colin's shins.

Aerion felt Ser Colin jump back and the other guard reach for what he presumed was a dagger. He let go of the kneeling fighter and slid further backwards, until his shoulder felt the shape of his hanging sword.

"I said, far corner!" Colin growled, but still kept a lowered voice.

Aerion unsheathed the weapon in time to block Ser Colin's next strike. Even though his grip shook from the intensity of the blow, he gritted his teeth to not betray any hint of struggle.

The Targaryen lord remained on defence until he stood steady on both feet, too far in the corner than he would like. His two attackers altered their strikes, leaving little room to fight back. The darkness was on his side, though, forcing the defectors to keep close to each other.

The fighting surrounding Ser Barristan continued. Aerion could hear mixed panting being pressed closer to him, even with the Kingsguard sending the attacking guards against each other.

Counting the pace of the strikes in front of him, Aerion leaned to drive his sword into stomach of the guard in front of him.

The tip of the sword sliced through light armour and slid back out, adding a warm smell of copper in the air. The guard's sword fell with a thud as he knelt.

Grabbing the free sword off the floor, Aerion opened the injured soldier's throat and threw the body in Ser Colin's path.

Hearing the weight hit something metallic, Aerion bought a few breaths to relieve Ser Barristan.

The nearest figure was too short to be the Kingsguard, so Aerion again used the second sword to slash at the soldier's chest and neck.

Ser Colin's sword swept to the right of his ear from behind. Aerion stilled his breath and had to abandon his attack.

"They are both here! On my count –"

An agonizing screech interrupted Ser Colin's words. Something heavy fell to the floor just as Aerion felt the Kingsguard's soft cloak brush against his lowered arm.

Ser Colin's angry strike met his defense. Eyes wide open but not being able to make out any outlines or shadows, Aerion hoped that his sense of hearing could predict the direction of the next blows.

The captain's slashes grew more decisive when the limited space constrained Aerion and Ser Barristan's movements.

Noticing that Ser Colin pulled his weight to the right, Aerion spun to jab at the opposite side.

Colin's left arm could not block in time and Aerion felt his sword slice through boiled leather and layers of clothing, somewhere on the knight's waist.

It probably didn't cut deep, though, since Colin pressed on with his sword arm.

Knowing another strike to the left would be a surprise, Aerion traded a few more blows with Colin and leaned to add to his previous cut.

"F-Fuck!" Colin was heavily favouring his right side now, hacking fiercely at where Aerion's head would be.

Holding a defending pose, Aerion knew something was wrong when the expected blow did not land.

Ser Colin's sword snaked under his bracer and Aerion felt a sharp soreness on his jaw, along the curve of his chin.

Aerion lifted the back of his fingers to the spot and felt a warm wetness. He forced a steadying breath and fought back, determined not to allow another opening.

Failing to slow his pounding heart, Aerion felt half-dazed from how easily the slash could have been across his throat.

An arm's length away, Ser Barristan kicked another soldier to the floor. Engaging with the next standing fighter, Ser Barristan hacked with his weight.

"My—my hand! Hells!"

Aerion continued to hold off Ser Colin.

Practicing dueling with his new captain of the guards was never top of mind, since he had Lorent, the Kingsguard, and Castle Darry's castellan to train with. And now, Aerion could not anticipate Ser Colin's strikes, which were made even more unpredictable in the dark.

Concerned that he was not hearing from his men, Colin called out, "Emmon? Kent, Rodrick?"

One of the soldiers answered at the risk of betraying where he was, "Ser, they must be done, could we-" Clashes of steel replaced the soldier's words.

Aerion felt a steady warmth flow down the side of his neck and staining his cloth tunic. He locked Ser Colin's sword with his own and attempted to throw the weapon from the knight's hand. It didn't quite work, but got the knight to pull on his fresh lesion.

"Ser!" The same soldier from earlier cried. Aerion could feel Ser Barristan making long strides forward, opening more room for their defence.

"If you help us arrest Ser Colin, I will allow you to go home." Aerion added.

Ser Barristan didn't allow time for the fighters to consider. Aerion heard more slashes in the air as the Kingsguard reclaimed half of the tent.

"Shite." Came someone's hushed groan, silenced by more slashes from Barristan the Bold.

"Ser Colin, they are waiting -"

"SHUT UP! Shut up!" Aerion knew that Ser Colin was more angry that he could not find break through his defence.

Another set of swift slashes came for his head and Aerion blocked the hits with his bracers, careful to angle his bare hands away from the incoming blade.

As Ser Colin shifted closer, Aerion shoved the grip of his sword at the captain's left hip, hoping it would tear the previous gashes.

Ser Colin stumbled sideways. Impressively, he still blocked Aerion's next hack at his chest.

"We ought to leave here, Ser, -"

"FUCK!" Ser Colin snarled loudly, no longer caring for discreetness.

Another substantial weight hitting the tent floor probably meant that Ser Barristan faced one fewer attacker.

Aerion again focused on defense. He would not take unnecessary risks when the fight is turning to their advantage.

Ser Colin allowed for a few more exchanges before he thought better of it.

"Move out!" He backed away around the table that was out of place.

A surviving soldier cut through the tied knot and threw the tent flaps wide, helping him disappear into the busy camp. Colin slipped past the threshold seconds later, calling again once outside, "Ride, now!"

Ser Barristan rushed to the tent entrance. He relaxed slightly when it looked like whoever Ser Colin arranged outside also dissipated.

Wiping away more blood from the throbbing wound on his jaw, Aerion shrugged on his full armour under the warm campfire light that leaked inside.

"We chase them, Ser Barristan."

Ser Barristan, looking unharmed except for some scrapes on his armour, traced the long cut on the Targaryen lord's face with his eyes.

The Kingsguard opened his mouth.

"A very close cut, I know, but I'm fine." Aerion pressed Ser Barristan's white shield to the knight's free arm and grabbed his own that had been leaning from the ground.

Ser Barristan found his whip from a pocket. "They would ride south, then west." The shortest paths towards the Goldroad.

"I will take all our cavalry. Our battle plans and supply routes cannot reach Lord Marbrand."

Though, it would be wrong information reaching Lord Marbrand anyway, since their camp will surely change their plans.

Deciding that the younger lord will probably dismiss seeing a Maester, Ser Barristan ducked out of the command tent to retrieve the closest horses.

The soldiers who were walking back from defending the head of camp were ordered to follow their commander to fight.

Myles Mooton and his array of Crownlands retinue, having driven the small Lannister forces away, called out to pursue those who fled.

Reaching the head of camp, Ser Barristan quickly scanned where the skirmish took place, where it was marked by littered weapons and a few dozen bodies baring Lannister and ally blazons.

Lord Mace's hand flew to his mouth when he saw blood over the Targaryen lord's face and neck.

Ser Oakheart and Lord Tarly, behind their liege, settled with deep frowns but did not raise questions.

Passing on commands, the Reach gathered a sizable cavalry to aid the pursuit. Their standard bearers found torches then, lighting up the sigils of the allied Houses.

As they rode out in the direction of the attacking army's escape, Lord Rykker and Ser Terrence promised that they would catch up with more Crownlands cavalry.

Keeping a neutral expression, the Targaryen lord spurred his stallion forward in the lead. A thousand armoured cavalry followed him down the trail under the soft moonlight.

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The Kingsroad, Crownlands, 283 AC

Within days of the attack on the Kingsroad, Lord Gawen led his five thousand soldiers against Lord Marbrand's eight thousand.

Lord Gawen had waited from off of the Goldroad and forced the Westerlands army between the Blackwater Rush and lines of enemy attack.

By all accounts, the battle on the Goldroad was fought and won by battle strategy and the training of each side's garrison.

The disadvantage of being outnumbered was more than compensated by the remarkable coordination of House Swann's bannermen.

House Swann's archers halted the advance of the Westerlands charging cavalry and shot back at Westerlands bowmen with formidable accuracy.

Just as the first line of Westerlands defence broke, spearmen and tall shield walls pushed the Westerlands host against the shore, taking away precious room to regroup into proper position.

For the first time in the rebellion, House Swann and its marcher allies showed their strength in battle.

This was the army that quietly besieged House Baratheon's empty seat for the better part of a year. The army that patrolled Massey's Hook and acted as watchers over the narrow sea for rebel-sympathizing mercenaries.

Their allies have laughed both openly and in private at House Swann's craven submission to easy chores.

After the battle on the Goldroad, though, jests turned into hushed whispers about House Swann's members, speculation about their power in the Stormlands, and nervous anticipation for when Lord Gawen joins their march for the capital.

Raven messages shared at the Crown's war council estimated that about three thousand surviving Lannister troops fled back west on the Goldroad.

Lord Gawen lost not quite a fifth of his banners in his victory. The Stonehelm garrison gathered thousands of newly-forged weapons, dented but usable sets of armour, and hundreds more horses paid by Lannister gold.

Ser Tygett was slain by Lord Dondarrion. Lord Lydden of Deep Den was slain by Lord Gawen himself, wielding a heavy longsword when he led his own host. The two defeated Westerlands noblemen were being wheeled to the main army to be inspected by their former peers.

House Swann's message also read that Lord Marbrand was gravely wounded and would not last a retreat to Deep Den. No one felt a need to point out that Lord Swann overlooked sending evidence of this claim.

Deadly as well as efficient, the battle was said to have started in the early morning and ended by midday. The Stormlands troops even made up ten or so miles north on the same day in their march, after tending to the dead and their own injured.

While the traitors from the attack on the Kingsroad could not take valuable knowledge to the enemy, the same could not be said about the prisoners they had extracted from camp.

Stringing together witnesses, Ser Kevan Lannister likely disguised as a common Riverlands soldier and had ridden off with guards bearing Stonedance colours. He was either separated from the fleeing attackers when the Crown's cavalry caught up or was long gone following a different road.

They almost recaptured Ser Addam Marbrand, if not for his personal guards holding in defence with their lives.

Lord Andros Brax faced Lord Tarly's retinue and was killed during the pursuit.

The Crownlands cavalry crushed traitors from House Blount, with Ser Barristan personally executing Ser Boros for his smuggling of prisoners.

The Lord of Stonedance searched for those who fled in his colours and sigil. The group of riders who followed close to him examined every face of passing riders and searched miles off the main road for the Stonedance captain of the guards.

Ser Colin was never spotted, though their new prisoners admit that the knight had ridden from the main camp with them.

On the night of the attack on the camp, Lord Randyll purposely reported his search party's finds directly to the Lord of Stonedance. The Lord of Horn Hill had cast a quick and trustfully subtle glimpse at the angry cut that sat above the collar of Lord Aerion's tunic. The cut ran deep and probably pulled on the flesh whenever Lord Aerion spoke.

At least it seemed to have stopped bleeding.

At least it wasn't half an inch lower, for the Iron Throne would see a much greater setback than losing Westerlands prisoners.

When daybreak came and went and they still found no signs of the fugitives, the Crown's cavalry started back to camp.

The next few days were spent on reassuring their allies that no lasting harm was done, on confirming the siege of King's Landing, and on debating whether a fleet should head west to pressure Lannisport.

Ravens brought news of the battle on the Goldroad to all the holdings that received messages of the rebellion's surrender a fortnight ago, along with a lengthy list of any Westerlands rebel worth naming who had paid with their lives.

Queen Rhaella offered to send Ser Jonothor to temporarily add to Aerion's retinue.

The Queen argued that Dragonstone was impenetrable with the royal fleet nearby and with no enemy forces in the Crownlands aside from the army holding out in the capital. While she would still have Lord Commander Hightower, Aerion could use another Kingsguard for the upcoming retake of the capital.

It was a warm gesture that Aerion was encouraged to see.

Although he had not sent a delegation to Dragonstone to describe the proposed Great Council and matters of succession, the Queen has surely heard from Crownlands vassals about the negotiations at Castle Darry.

In expressing concern over his safety, Queen Rhaella had indicated to their allies that the royal House remains aligned, at least on the effort to put down the rebellion.

Mindful that the Queen may soon welcome a prince that would give Tywin reason to target the island, Aerion wrote back advising Ser Jonothor to remain at his post.

His more cynical advisors pointed out that the Queen has a difficult position deciding whether to support or oppose the Lord of Stonedance's plans.

For instance, it might not be the worst outcome, Lord Renfred suggested, for Dragonstone to see the rebellion largely defeated and for the strongest contestant to the Iron Throne to perish at the end of that pursuit.

Aerion had shifted the conversation away from that idea at the nightly war council. They were joined by new faces from the Reach, with a handful of younger lordlings among them who appeared aghast by the Crownlands nobles' suspicion over Dragonstone's intention.

The council stayed to more imminent topics after that, encompassing defending another attack on the camp, provisions for the siege, and scouting on House Lannister's second army out of Golden Tooth.

They were twenty leagues away from Prince Oberyn's camp when Lord Gawen's scouts revealed themselves and shared their liege's location.

The nobles at camp waited far into the night to welcome House Swann's banners.

Torches from the formation burned brighter as the troops approached, revealing fatigued but focused faces.

House Redwyne's guards responded orderly to their approaching allies, pulling the barricades apart and guiding Stormlands and marcher soldiers onto a cleared field.

Forgoing his armour for a heavy cloak over his tunic, Lord Gawen Swann thanked the large welcoming party and listened to Lord Redwyne and Lord Rykker introduce themselves to him.

Bidding only one member of his retinue to follow him and the rest to manage their men, the Lord of Stonehelm quickly surveyed the vast allies camp and followed Aerion and Lord Mace, who were leading the commanders, towards the command tent.

Each soldier and knight Lord Gawen passed stood a little straighter, their voices lowering to recount the battle on the Goldroad.

Reports of what they've already learned from letters were received at the welcoming war council for House Swann.

Lord Gawen didn't seem to mind answering the long strings of questions about his battle strategy and about more recent scouting parties that he had sent in the direction of Deep Den.

The Lord of Stonehelm entertained the curiosity of the minor nobles, especially the handful of landed knights from the Reach who were meeting him for the first time.

It was Renfred and William Mooton's first time meeting the older lord as well. They watched Lord Gawen describe how the rift in command between Lord Marbrand and Ser Tygett did most of his work, by forcing the commanders under each of them to distrust each other.

When Lord Mace tried to hide his yawn for a second time, the Lord of Stonehelm reminded the council that it was almost daybreak.

At that signal, Lord Redwyne proposed for the council to resume discussions at midday, to also allow the Stormlands men to settle into the larger army.

Lord Mace wiped his face with his sleeve, bid everyone a good night, and barely contained his next yawn as he made way for the exit.

Aerion stayed put in his seat. His grandfather's gaze had landed on him for long enough that he knew there was more to be settled.

Ser Barristan drank from a new cup of water when the noble commanders cleared out. Still eyeing Rory, who stood silently behind Lord Gawen's chair, the Kingsguard found a new position to stand guard close to Aerion.

"Congratulations on a great victory, grandfather. We wouldn't have relied on Jon Fossoway to block Lord Marbrand's advance for long, nor take out Tygett Lannister nearly as effectively."

Lord Gawen allowed half a smirk but did not repeat the same words of thanks that he had said to the war council.

"Damon Marbrand knew what he was doing for the most part. The formation was right and there was strong discipline." Lord Gawen divulged, "Unluckily, my army was fully rested while he crossed tight parts of the Blackwater overnight. I sent scouts to burn the bridges behind them, to confirm that they have been cornered."

"I haven't heard. That is a great story." Aerion asked, "Have you seen any injury to your person or retinue? The messengers have not said anything, but I thought to confirm."

"I appreciate the ask," Lord Gawen maintained a smile, "No harm to my person; no harm to any bannerman who you would know."

"I am relieved to hear that." Aerion said, "I also understand that the Deep Den army left behind well-tended destriers and weapons in good condition. I intend to propose to the war council that House Swann and its Stormlands levies should lay claim to half of the surrendered goods, with the rest to supply the bigger army. Could that be acceptable to you, my lord?"

"Your offer is generous, and I am not embarrassed to take this opportunity to enrich the supplies of my garrison. The Stonehelm garrison will train for the siege of King's Landing now and onwards, of course."

"It is settled, then." Aerion continued, "Our allies shall congregate at the gates of King's Landing in a few days. The greatest risk now is for Tywin to flee through some hidden passage, of which I know there are plenty. Lord Wendwater and the Master of Ships have assured me that no soul can enter or leave the city, but only from trails that they know of."

"Has a Maester told you that the cut won't fester?"

Aerion resisted the urge to trace his bandaged cut, which could not be fully covered beneath his high collar. "Maidenpool's Maester checked it. The bandage is really not necessary."

"And that high collar is to hide it?" That brought Rory's gaze to his face as well.

"Trying and failing, as it seems."

"You needn't hide it." Lord Gawen leaned back in his chair, "It is futile to discuss the retake of the capital until we arrive at its gates, given how the armies will need to mend into one. Tywin is grasping at straws plotting an assassination. It happened, and you fought it off. That's the end of it. There is no shame in surviving."

"They smuggled out Kevan Lannister and Addam Marbrand."

"Useful prisoners to distress the Lannister army on top of King's Landing's walls, so I've heard." Lord Gawen said.

"The council presumes that they will return to Casterly Rock. They will reinforce House Lannister's borders, raise a new army, or both." Aerion admitted, "Addam can pick up the pieces of Lord Damon's scattered army, to continue east on the Goldroad."

"All those efforts are inconsequential because time favours our allies. House Lannister will bend their knee now, or a moon from now, before the Great Council." Lord Gawen looked to the pensive Targaryen lord across from him. "Your entire focus should be on two tasks: surviving the retake of the capital and making sure that Tywin Lannister is a dead man within the fortnight."

"It was my own retinue and House Boros garrison." Aerion broke off the eye contact. "At a time when the Crownlands should be nothing but united. I worry that it sowed skepticism within the army."

"The problem lies with your retinue. Tell me, are you striving to be the King of the Crownlands, or the King of the Seven Kingdoms?"

Aerion responded to Lord Gawen's words rather than his tone. "All seven kingdoms."

"Then add those outside of the Crownlands to your retinue. Even tonight, your commands for Randyll Tarly and House Florent were voiced through Mace Tyrell. That landed knight you sent as messenger is of the Crownlands, and you still relied on Renfred Rykker to repeat your order."

"Your right is to command any member of the nobility as you see fit. Put the competent ones to use, to answer directly to you, so they may build loyalty towards you."

"Half of these nobles met me the first time at the Trident. I haven't learned their temperaments and histories."

"I would ask you to learn quickly. We speak of your retinue but also of your court." The Lord of Stonehelm added, "Not every vassal to the Great Houses was keen to join the rebellion. You will find enthusiastic noblemen who wish to serve the Iron Throne, whose ambitions can in turn keep the Great Houses in line."

"Surely, the Crownlands bannermen who have fought alongside me deserve to be rewarded with higher duties. Part of why the Crown finds itself so reliant on the House Tyrell's armies is because of weaker holdings that make up the Crownlands."

Lord Gawen raised an eyebrow, "We speak of a decade of your reign and not of now."

"You are right." Aerion conceded.

"You have none now in your retinue and you can start with Tytos Frey. You did promise to raise House Frey to Lord Paramount of the Trident and then dishonour that appointment, did you not?"

"For stability's sake, I have decided that the Lord Paramount titles will not change hands. That aside, each rebel Great House will yield a great portion of the land and incomes they directly control, to be gifted to estates who remained loyal in this war."

"You've already apologized to me about House Baratheon." His grandfather did not sound as irritable as he had expected. "You can worry about me later. I assure you that you can find equitable compensation for my House."

"I should still deliver my apology in person," Aerion said, "I remember well Stonehelm's support since my last visit. The southern Stormlands will look to House Swann to lead them, free from House Baratheon interference."

"Circumstances have changed since we were home. I know that you have been looking out for myself and for your cousin - and that warms my heart." His grandfather said.

"I want to make clear that Lady Olenna intends for Lord Mace to be named Hand of the King." Aerion put on a slight grimace as he clarified, "I am able to offer any other position on the small council, in addition to lands towards the Rainwood and incomes of Storm's End, as our last letters described."

Rory chuckled out loud this time.

"The Tyrells underestimate how many enemies a Hand of the King has to make. They won't have the stomach for it, and you will name me to succeed him."

Aerion breathed out in relief in front of his grandfather, "If Lord Mace resigns or makes a grave error, that is the first thing I will do. Thank you for understanding."

"Lord Frey will not debate as frankly as I am with you. Forcing Eddard Stark's surrender was supposed to be his contribution that is the basis of his rewards." Lord Gawen warned, "You took that away from him, by accepting the North's surrender just outside of his castle."

"At the next turn of the moon, House Frey will have even wider lands against their liege and will foster Edmure Tully in another year or two. I host at least five of his sons and grandsons so they may take positions with higher nobles throughout the realm. I would say that's handsome reward for not losing a single guard since we all called banners."

"Weasel Walder hates it most when people use him and later deny his view of the critical part he played. I would advise you to be careful, and if you can, to attract some of his less feeble sons and grandsons to be closer to you than to him."

"Fine, Lord Frey hosted my delegates well enough and never harmed our allied forces. Tytos Frey is acceptable to me. I will keep another grandson at court. If uncle can host one at Stonehelm, I can ask House Redwyne and House Royce to host the rest."

"House Swann is happy to serve."

"I am grateful." Aerion replied, "I would prefer Dorne to take one instead of House Royce, but I won't know Dorne's sentiments until the gates of King's Landing, whether they would be cordial with the Crown or not."

"Dorne will seize the opportunity of a weakened Iron Throne to become as independent as they can be. For our purposes for now, however, they are aligned with you to take revenge against the Lannisters."

Aerion had heard the same from the Reach's sources.

"Between you and I, grandfather, if Dorne is intent on claiming independence, I am inclined to wipe out the Dornish host at King's Landing, after having dealt with the Lannisters. Without the host led by Prince Oberyn, Dorne will be crippled in its fighting forces."

"I am encouraged to see these proposals of strategy from you, and I appreciate that you are eager to keep the realm intact in all respects." Lord Gawen didn't take long to consider, "But you are surrounded by too many hostile forces for that to be worthwhile - the newly surrendered Great Houses can easily turn on you, as well as lurking Westerlands forces. I am also under the impression that it is not kingly to betray one's allies in combat, quite so quickly."

"If Dorne claims independent rule, even independence in all but name, it would be treason against the Iron Throne." Aerion maintained, "I would prefer putting down every rebellion now, instead of letting subversive ideas ferment. I say that in case the worst happens."

"I know Prince Oberyn used harsh words against you before your armies parted ways. I know that you are flustered by the attempt on your person, just days ago." Lord Gawen frowned, "But you ought to remain the reasonable and empathetic choice of a ruler. Your House failed to protect Princess Elia when it was your duty to do so. House Martell has and will bleed to recover the capital, for personal vengeance but also your use. All talks for peace should be exhausted before you consider anything else with House Martell."

Aerion pursed his lips before saying, "It was just a thought, grandfather. You are right that I haven't been feeling quite like myself. I will recover before the armies congregate."

"You will get to practice such a composure over time." His grandfather agreed, "Since High Heart, you have benefited from certain superior strategies but also a great deal of luck. You know my words aren't pretty; the battle for King's Landing is uncertain, as is how your claim was received by Dorne. You need the nobility to hold a Great Council to settle affairs in your favour. You cannot afford to lose any friendly or even neutral party."

"Understood."

"My lords, I feel compelled to point out that the Iron Islands will be spectating the battle for King's Landing and will expect to take part in the aftermath, mainly for recognition of their continued neutrality." Rory addressed the pair at the table.

"Thank you, Rory. I didn't think of everything through." Aerion said, "I will of course invite House Greyjoy and their bannermen to attend the Great Council. Like with Dorne, I will host them with an appreciation of their neutrality."

"Speaking of the Great Council, you neglected to tell me that Lynna Stark has had a healthy and trueborn son for the late Crown Prince. I had learned that the child will be presented to the realm at said Council."

"The mother and child are in Dornish territory as we speak, but will head north and eventually arrive to the capital, for safety."

Information of varying sensitivity flowed from noble holding to holding during the negotiations at Castle Darry, not to mention allowing House Stark to reunite with their kin. With the exception of Dorne and the Westerlands, and possibly Dragonstone, Aerion can only assume that their allies and the newly surrendered lords – the higher lords, at least – have a conception of Prince Rhaegar's arrangements.

Meeting his grandfather's curious gaze, Aerion continued, "The child is a trueborn son. Prince Rhaegar told me himself and I have vowed to recognize and protect him. I have told a handful of my most trusted advisors, including House Tyrell, during negotiations at Castle Darry."

"House Tyrell wasn't concerned with your claim to the throne, with Rhaegar's son ahead of you?" His grandfather sounded close to amused.

"House Tyrell was satisfied that a Great Council of nobles has set the line of succession twice in the past, without any precedent to overwrite the decision of those Great Councils."

"True. Though the stronger reason is that the union of this child's parents, issues of the legality of a second marriage aside, is the direct cause of Robert's Rebellion, and further an indirect cause of the Sack of King's Landing." Lord Gawen drawled. "He won't shake off these histories in his lifetime, much like how Lord Maegor was too close to the wildfire... accident."

"Given these circumstances, I must ask for your word to extend your protection to the mother and child, as they pass through Stormlands territories." Aerion asked, "The child's claim is too divisive to the realm. For the sake of my credibility and legitimacy, no harm will come to the child under my guardianship."

"I agree with your approach," Lord Gawen casted a glance in the Kingsguard's direction. "The throne should pass to the one who saves the dynasty from extinction. I never considered that children, as I add the Queen's newborn here, would threaten your reign."

"I think the same. Anyone conspiring to harm a member of House Targaryen will answer for treason." Aerion made his terms clear while he considered whether Lord Gawen meant what he said.

"My Lord Aerion, Lord Gawen and I were eager to persuade you to grant titles and protection to the late Crown Prince's child, along with the Queen's child." Rory chimed in, "There is every benefit to win the hearts of the nobles who remember Prince Rhaegar fondly and to acquire the Queen's endorsement of your claim. It won't take more than a decently sized castle to send one or more royal princes off, once they are of age."

"Your heir will be your eldest son by Lady Janna, and before that, Baelor." Lord Gawen said, "Everyone will renew their vows to honour that, at your coronation."

Aerion confirmed, "I intend to arrange for that."

"Good."

"Summerhall is owed proper repairs. When that's done, Queen Rhaella shall have it, and her child after her, whether it is a boy or a girl."

"You needn't consult me with the holdings of the royal House. They will be yours to administer, at your pleasure. I only say that House Swann strives to be a helpful host in the Stormlands, at the master of Summerhall's arrival." Lord Gawen smiled, " If that's all for tonight, you must forgive me for craving some sleep while I still can."

Lord Gawen stood from his chair, prompting Aerion to stand as well.

"Thank you for your counsel, grandfather. Please take good care, as I will have much to learn from you at court." Aerion looked to his grandfather and Rory of Stonehelm in turn, catching a small smile from the latter.

"It is my privilege." The Lord of Stonehelm answered, "I can find my way from here."

"We settled on midday for the next war council."

Lord Gawen nodded in acknowledgement on his exit.

Aerion settled back into the seat.

"Lord Gawen seems to be well-aligned with our plans, my lord."

"It does seem like it. More agreeable than what Lord Renfred predicted at the council." Aerion said, taking a long drink from his cup. "I am prepared to name Gulian to the small council if Lord Gawen asks. It is Storm's End's position he really wants, but I do not wish to grant that."

"Stannis Baratheon cannot stop House Swann from consolidating the strength of the marcher holdings for itself." Ser Barristan noted, "Lord Gawen would not make Dorne easy enemies, for he will need their affection along the border."

"He ought to be speaking with Doran. With the Iron Throne weakened by the rebellion, and with high lords urging diplomacy towards Sunspear, Dorne will be effectively independent under House Martell." Aerion frowned, staring at letters from Lord Wendwater reporting on Prince Oberyn.

"Doran knows that we've no reason to turn our swords against them, short of open rebellion." The Kingsguard said. "They will fight to retake the capital, demand a great sum for restitution, and then return south."

And they will ask for double that great sum in exchange for supporting his claim at the Great Council, even though the alternative in Lynna's child will be unacceptable to them. Aerion shook his head to himself.

"Summerhall for Queen Rhaella and her child is generous." Ser Barristan dipped his head. "Thank you, my lord, for your thoughtfulness."

"I've thought it too close to House Swann's lands, but alas they are separated by a stretch of the Red Mountains." Aerion rubbed his eyes to chase away the tiredness. "Summerhall will be more fortified than a residence this time. My House should start a presence in the Stormlands at a juncture when House Baratheon is weakened."

"House Lydden leaves no heir after the battle on the Goldroad. Deep Den will open a passage into the Westerlands in our allies' hands."

"Yes, Deep Den will be granted, I just can't see to whom as yet. There is much love for House Lannister among its attendants and common folk."

Ser Barristan hummed in agreement.

"I will retire to my sleeping quarters." Aerion gathered the loose scrolls of parchment to bring with him. "If my grandfather's men approach the nobles of the Vale or of the Riverlands at camp, I want to know of it."

"Very good, my lord."

They had already discussed observing House Swann's forces at camp with House Mooton and House Rykker. Growing the Houses already loyal to him is of the same priority as swaying competent but still unfamiliar noblemen to his service. Aerion certainly expects to spend much less than a decade to settle a somewhat trustworthy court at the capital.