King's Landing 297 AC.
Littlefinger.
Something had gone wrong, the wine hadn't been drunk. Had it been anything other than the wolves that were the reason for it, then he'd have worried he'd been found out. Even though it had been just a mindless beast that had ruined his plans though, it mattered not, as ruined they still were. He played back the previous night in his mind, the angered look on the Lions' faces, the happy one on King Robert's and Jon Arryn's. Cat had smiled beamingly and danced with her husband, son, and Ser Jon Snow, but not once with him.
Petyr as usual had to make do with the lesser sister once more. He had taken comfort in Lysa's scowls when her sickly son had danced with Elaena though. A small and pitiful comfort compared to the one he had sought, but a comfort all the same. After the wine had been spilled and not drunk as he'd wished it to be, he had sworn that Elaena Arryn had given him a look of deep suspicion. Yet mere moments after he'd thought he'd seen such a look, her features were clear once more. It had made him make certain that all evidence of his attempt to poison Ser Jon was quickly removed. The young man who'd brought the wine to him had then met his end later that night.
So he had no doubt he was in the clear once more and it was anger and not worry that was at the forefront of his emotions today. Petyr's plan had failed, it was time for him to come up with yet another. What that plan was to be or what form it took, he had no idea as of yet. But he had until the tourney ended to set the Wolves and Lions at each other's throats and bring about a fall so that he could rise as high as he deserved. After he'd dressed and broken his fast, he made his way to the Tower of the Hand to ready to ride to the tourney with Jon Arryn, Lysa, and Sweetrobin.
Within an hour, they were at the tourney grounds and he was sitting beside the Hand of the King and his wife, as Jon Arryn and his son both searched the crowd for Ser Jon and Lady Elaena. It was the Starks that arrived before the new bride and her husband did. Petyr knew he had to hide his interest in Cat from the ever-watchful eyes of Lysa. So he decided it was for the best if he engaged Jon Arryn in some conversation to make it look like that was the reason why his eyes kept seeking her out.
"I had thought Ser Jon and Lady Elaena may have joined us this morn, Lord Hand, or rode with the lad's family," he said to a shake of Jon Arryn's head.
"I believe given that it was the first night as man and wife, a lie-in is not too much to expect, Petyr."
"Nor would I seek to deny them one, my lord, for both, looked most pleased with the day," he said offering up a smile.
"That they did, it went well I think." Jon Arryn said, asking a question and yet not.
"It did father. Laeny looked so beautiful and Ser Jon was so gallant, both were as happy as I've ever seen them." Sweetrobin chimed in unwelcome to Petyr's mind.
"What's that my love?" Lysa asked when she heard her son's voice.
"He was saying that Elaena and Ser Jon seemed most happy, my dear." Jon Arryn said not looking to his wife as his eyes too sought his daughter and goodson perhaps.
"They did." Lysa sneered.
The newly wed couple arrived just before the king and queen and cut it damnably close to making a scene by arriving after them. Not that Robert would see it as a slight or do anything about it had they arrived a few moments later. Though Cersei very much would and would seek some foolhardy punishment. As much as he hated to admit it, they did make a striking couple and he actually hoped they'd come and sit with them for the first day's event. Instead, it was the Starks and their own little circle of friends that they sat with and it was a wave and a nod of Ser Jon's head in their direction that was to be their own greeting.
"Father can I…" Sweetrobin asked before Lysa's voice rose quickly.
"No you cannot, your place is…"
"Go ahead son, I know it's not with us that you wish to sit, and much though I like having you with me, I'll not begrudge you sitting with those you want to." Jon Arryn smiled fondly at his son as Sweetrobin hurried from his seat.
The argument between the Hand and his wife raged for a few moments after Sweetrobin had run over to sit with Elaena and Ser Jon. Jon Arryn having none of it and he too looking to rise and find another seat, only for Lysa to instead do so once the king had announced the opening of the tourney and the day's events.
"I swear at times a woman's mind is a mystery to me, Petyr, mine own wife's more than most." Jon Arryn sighed.
"She wishes only what's best for your son, Lord Hand, and is most protective of Lord Robert," he said knowing that Jon Arryn misliked his son not being called by his given name.
"She coddles him too much. He's a growing boy, the future lord of the Vale. My son needs must be seen to do as other boys to, to make a name for himself as Ser Jon and others have."
Petyr saw it then, the opportunity that presented itself was as clear as if it had been spoken to him by one of the Seven who are One themselves. Words of wisdom from the Crone with a whisper in the air from the Stranger's tongue added in for good measure.
"Mayhap it's time Lord Robert was fostered, Lord Hand, it has worked wonders for your Goodson has it not?" he planted the seed.
"That it has, no one could doubt so." Jon Arryn's eyes looked to where Ser Jon was whispering in Lady Elaena's ear and making her laugh delightfully.
Petyr found his own eyes following those of the Hand of the King and his breath stilled in his mouth. He'd thought that Cat was the most beautiful woman he'd ever seen, the very picture of the Maiden made flesh. Looking to Elaena Arryn, seeing her bright blue eyes so full of joy and the way she brushed her hand over her husband's cheek, his love had found a competitor of sorts. As she had with the young redheaded girl who sat beside the flayed man and too laughed at something whispered in her ear.
"I think you may be onto something, Petyr." Jon Arryn's voice took him from thoughts of being the man lucky enough to take the maidenheads of such young beauties as Elaena Arryn and Sansa Stark.
"My lord?" he asked lost for a moment "Oh the fostering, I'm sure Lord Tywin would be most happy to accept Lord Robert at Casterly Rock. Would you like me to…"
"I'd not send my son so far, Petyr."
"Her grace may see it as a slight if her father's house was not considered, Lord Hand."
"Oh I'll consider it, but it'll not be the Rock, on that you can be certain."
"Dragonstone mayhap, Lord Stannis would be most acceptable and could not be considered a slight given he's the king's own brother?" he suggested knowing to Lysa it would have the same effect.
"True, nor would Ned, considering he's mine own foster son and we welcomed his boy to the Vale."
"Indeed," he said noncommittally, the truth was that the Starks were possibly the best placed of all to foster Jon Arryn's son.
Kin to Lysa and Jon Arryn through marriage, linked to the Vale through Ned Stark's own fostering and after taking Ser Jon to the Vale, it would be seen as a favor returned by most. For Lysa to refuse it would not endear her to the Lords of the Vale either and in the North, Sweetrobin would be far away from any plans he could make use of him for. No, it would not do, he'd need to dissuade the Hand from considering it too much lest he goes through with it and ruins all his plans in the process.
"They have few knights in the North, Lord Hand. While no man would think lesser of a lad fostered by Lord Stark." he said hating every single word "The future Lord of the Vale must earn his spurs and pursue knightly endeavors, must he not?"
"You have the right of it, he must. I thank you for your counsel, Petyr, truly, I know now the perfect foster home for my son." Jon Arryn said smiling as he looked to see Ser Jon, Elaena, Ser Jon's young squire Gyles Grafton and Sweetrobin all laughing as Ser Jon japed with the two younger boys.
The words didn't need to be spoken aloud, Petyr knowing full well that it would be Runestone to be close to Sweetrobin's sister and goodbrother that Jon Arryn would seek his son fostered at. He had hoped for Casterly Rock. As Tywin Lannister was most easily portrayed as a monster in most people's eyes and with a few choice words, he would be so in Lysa's. This though would work out far better, the words he'd speak to fuel Lysa's paranoia almost needing not to be written so easy did they come to him. He smiled as he sat back and looked firstly to the archery that was taking place on the field in front of him and then to those his eyes were most drawn to.
Ser Jon and Lady Elaena would not enjoy a long and happy marriage. The boy may have been lucky enough to survive his plot from the night before. But when next he came for him he'd find his luck had run out. He looked from the bastard son of Ned Stark to the woman who sat beside him. Petyr felt a momentary lust for her that increased as she now spoke to Sansa Stark. The images of one or both awaiting him in his bed almost forced him to close his eyes to enjoy them fully. Finally, his eyes found the bright blue ones of Cat and he felt that pang in his heart once more. For more than five and ten years he'd dreamed of her. He vowed that each day from now on would only see that dream come ever closer to being fulfilled.
King's Landing 297 AC.
Sansa.
Sansa had been to tourneys before, but the one in King's Landing was so much larger than any of them. So she had feared more for Domeric and the rest of the Brotherhood taking part in this one, even though she knew they were more than capable. That Jon wasn't taking part in any of the events, had made this fear rise somewhat too. As she knew that with him out there with them, Domeric, Waymar, and Mychel would come to no harm. Not even the small little voice that she heard at the back of her head which told her that she'd then worry for her brother too, was enough to dissuade her of that notion.
As the melee began, she looked to Jeyne and Mya who sat close to her, and to Elaena and Jon who were a few seats away, and beside Elaena's brother Robert and Ysilla. As much as she enjoyed sitting with both girls, she wished she was closer to her own brother so that he could alleviate her worries for her betrothed and his friends. The funniest thing was that even though there was probably as much danger in the jousting as there was by right here in the melee, on the former she felt no such fear. Or mayhap the thoughts of being crowned as the Queen of Love and Beauty had simply chased those fears away.
Her eyes both searched for Domeric and the others and looked through the crowd at the same time. She caught the princess looking her way and so offered Myrcella a warm smile and a little wave which the younger girl returned. Unfortunately, that turned Prince Joffrey's attention to her and so she quickly turned her head away, not noticing his scowl as she did so. Sansa looked to her mother and father, who sat with the rest of her family, and once again she wished she was sitting elsewhere. Arya looked as excited as Bran did and even her mother seemed most interested in the upcoming event. Which was more than could be said for her father. He'd always said that men of the North had no time for tourneys and while that was true for him and clear in his bored expression, Domeric, The Great and Smalljon's, Lady Dacey Mormont, and others would seem not to agree.
"It's about ready to begin, Sansa," Jeyne said excitedly and Sansa turned to her friend and tried to cover her worries with as true a smile as she could manage.
"The Brotherhood will stick close together or do so at least until the time comes for them to face each other," Mya said and her voice showed her own concern.
"I wish Jon was with them," she said softly.
"He cannot, as host he cannot compete," Jeyne said and Sansa turned in her brother's direction at her friend's words.
She giggled as she saw how close to the edge of his seat Jon was sitting, her brother was not best pleased that he could not compete it seemed. Looking to the king who seemed to be torn between looking to the tourney grounds or her father and her brother, Sansa would wager that he too wished that Jon was out there taking part. King Robert had spoken often and most fondly about Jon's ability with a sword and seemed to have pride in her brother's abilities that was matched only by her father or Jon Arryn. No that was not quite true. Ser Arthur and Sandor too would look at Jon the same way when someone spoke of his skills. Looking to her brother once more, she could see Ser Arthur behind him but there was no sign of Sandor which was strange.
"Mya, Jeyne, did any of you see Sandor today?" she asked to a shake of Jeyne's head and a pointing of Mya's finger to the field.
"He's competing in the melee, Sansa," Mya said and Sansa felt almost the last of her worries fade away.
Jon may not be able to compete, but she'd no doubt he'd sent Sandor to do so in his stead. Mayhap to win and show why people shouldn't seek to mess with the Mountain Wolf. Though with Frost and Winter and Jon himself, that message was one most people heard loud and clear. More likely though, it was to do what he himself could not. To watch over those he cared about and offer them aid should they need it. Though once again, a small voice in her head began to speak and its words brought a truer smile to her face as the melee truly began.
"Domeric and the Brotherhood, need no such help." the voice said.
Very quickly it became clear that this melee was a much different beast than the ones in Runestone were. It seemed more vicious, more angered somehow. Whether that was down to the fact that those competing were more varied and from further afield or because of the prize on offer, she knew not. Her fears and worries though soon began to rise once more as she saw men being carried off the field on stretchers and unmoving. She felt first Jeyne's and then Mya's hands both take one of her own and the three of them sat there looking on nervously.
She could see Sandor brush away any who came near him as if they were no threat whatsoever, but she'd lost Mychel and Waymar somewhere amongst the many fights that were taking place. As for Domeric, try as she might she could see no sign of him at all and her worries began to grow. At one point she rose to her feet ready to cry out, only for it to be someone wearing similar armor and not her betrothed that had been knocked to the ground by a vicious blow from a Morningstar. It was Jeyne in the end who found Waymar which shouldn't have been a surprise to her.
"He won that easily." Jeyne said happily "WAYMAR, HOUSE ROYCE!" she then shouted out and Sansa almost glared at her friend only to hear the same words shouted by Ysilla a few seats away and by Elaena too.
When Mya's eyes finally found Mychel, he was facing off against two men from the Reach and holding them at bay with what to Sansa looked like vastly superior skills. Mychel was faster, much faster, and he seemed to move in and out of the other men's guards easily. He dodged any blow aimed at him and retaliated with his own, first bringing a yield from one man and then moments later from another.
"MYCHEL, HOUSE REDFORT!" Mya shouted out loudly and once again Elaena joined in, her voice as loud as Mya's was and Sansa smirked as she redoubled her efforts to find Domeric.
She found him just as he won and rising to her feet, she readied to shout as loudly and as proudly as her friends did.
"DOMERIC, HOUSE BOLTON!" she shouted and again Elaena joined her voice to hers, when she heard another girl's voice at first she knew not who it was at first, and then she smiled beamingly at her sister for her support. Arya having shouted mayhap even louder than her.
Jon had not and instead it was when Sandor took down an opponent that her brother's voice rang out and was joined by far more than she'd expected, certainly more than Sandor did. One of those voices it turned out was the King's too which brought a scowl to the face of the queen and to Tywin's Lannister's. Though none as large as the one that Sandor aimed in her brother's direction.
"SANDOR, HOUSE CLEGANE!" Jon Shouted.
"SANDOR!"
"HOUSE CLEGANE!"
The words rang out and she and her friends beside her laughed loudly at just how put out the large man who shielded her brother's back, truly was by those words. As the field whittled down, she found it easier to keep track of where those she cared about were placed. Sandor was facing off against a man from the West who was just as large as him. Sansa couldn't be certain if it was the Strongboar or his equally fierce father. Mychel was involved in a duel of sorts with a man from the Stormlands that she couldn't name while Waymar and Andar faced off against two men from the Riverlands. Domeric she found to her horror was standing across from the Greatjon.
"He's a fool, a simple-minded fool," she said angrily as she watched the giant Jon Umber wield his Greatsword one-handed.
"He'll be…" Mya said and yet Sansa didn't hear her words, the blow that Domeric had been caught with had knocked him to the ground and Sansa could barely look.
'Please be unharmed, please be unharmed, Mother I beg of you please don't let him be hurt too badly."
Her prayer was thankfully answered and he rose to his feet with a little help from the Greatjon. Though she wished to run to him. To offer him firstly her comfort and then her scolding words. The wave he gave her showed even more clearly that he was unhurt and so she felt it best to cheer her friends' favorites on as they had cheered her own.
"As I said, a fool," she said smiling as Mya and Jeyne laughed with her.
The melee continued for another hour. Waymar lasted longer than his brother which she knew would please him and certainly had Jeyne. Mychel made it to the final eight and lost to a yield rather than an injury which was the reason for Mya's broad smile. Sandor made it to the final four which included one Northman, the Greatjon. The Smalljon and Lady Dacey both had fallen in the final eight. It was Thoros of Myr though that it seemed was destined to win this day to her eyes. He and his flaming sword were more than a match for anyone and so as the Greatjon and Sandor fought a battle of strength and power, she watched Thoros face off against a man just as tall as either of the other two and beat him easily.
"Who was that?" she asked as the giant man walked from the field.
"Rolland Storm, the Bastard of Nightsong." Mya said and Sansa nodded as Sandor finally yielded to the Greatjon, reluctantly though it was.
"I'd thought he'd win it all," Jeyne said softly as Sandor walked from the field defeated.
"To lose to such a man as the Greatjon is no shame and I'm sure my father is most proud that it's a man of the North who's made it so far," she said looking to see that her father did indeed look please, while Jon and the King both looked somewhat disappointed. More so on the king's part, she felt.
In the end, she was proved right, large and powerful though he was, fire won out over brawn and the day belonged to Thoros. She was not alone in cheering the red priest his victory and yet she was pleased the day was done. Rising to her feet, she, Jeyne, and Mya all hurried to make sure that those they cared for were truly unharmed. Sansa found herself wearing a little smirk as she thought of the scolding she'd give her betrothed and the kisses they'd share once she was done.
Lorath 297 AC.
Viserys Targaryen.
He'd been given leave to forgo his training and spend time with his sister. Yet routine had become something he'd much appreciated and so he woke as early as ever and spent the morning going through his forms on the training ground. It had taken him time to truly learn how to wield a sword, and he cursed that he'd been so lax in his training over the years. Not that he'd had much opportunity to train if the truth was told, but he'd learned from Jon Connington that you don't always need a guide to become better at something.
The older man had been close to his brother and served as a mentor of sorts to Viserys now. It was he who had picked the men to train him with the bow, sword, shield, and other weapons. Moving him from being barely able to wield any of them with any skill, to being able to take victories that were won and not given by men far more experienced than Viserys himself was. The training yard wasn't the end of his education either. Jon taught him tactics, and he spoke to him about the makeup of the Great and Lesser Houses of Westeros. Who was a player of the Great Game, who could and would be tuned to their side, and who would be their enemies regardless.
"His grace brings the Vale and the North, my prince. Two Kingdoms already and their men are amongst the best and fiercest of all. The Knights of the Vale are almost unstoppable when in full charge and I can attest to the ferocity of the North's men myself."
"The Battle of the Bells?" he asked and Jon nodded with a sad look on his face.
"The West and Stormlands will certainly oppose us," Jon said after a moment.
"They have us beat on numbers do they not?" he asked garnering a smile from the older man.
"That they do, though with the men of the Company of the Sea Snake and the Lords of the Narrow Sea, it's a close-run thing."
"Which leaves the Riverlands, Reach, Dorne, Crownlands, and Iron Islands." he said to a nod "The Ironborn are not to be trusted." his words pleasing the older man "The Reach should be ours, though…"
"The Tyrells still wish for what they always have, a queen on the throne."
"Which my nephew's marriage won't give them." he said to another nod "The Lord Paramount of the Trident and his heir are kin to the Starks are they not?
"They are, my prince. Lord Eddard is wed to Lord Hoster's daughter, his children are Hoster's grandsons and granddaughters."
"So they and the Riverlords would be for us?" he asked.
"The Riverlands is where most wars get fought. It's where I lost at the Stoney Sept and where Rhaegar…."
"So we'd need to shore them up to bring them to bear," he said stopping Jon from his melancholy that would come when he spoke of Rhaegar's death.
"That we would, my prince."
He looked to the redheaded man noticing how his eyes seemed to search for something in Viserys' expression, almost as if he was willing him to show that he'd taken to the lessons he'd been taught even better than he'd shown thus far.
"The Crownlands will split and those nearest King's Landing will declare for the Usurper." he said and Jon smiled "Dorne and the Reach are the wild cards. If the Tyrells join with the Usurper then we need Dorne's spears, and my nephew being who he is may not be Dorne's favorite person."
"No, he may not."
"So it's to be Margaery Tyrell or Arianne Martell then." Viserys said and Jon looked at him full of pride.
"You'd not see Lord Willas or Prince Quentyn as…"
"My sister will not be sold off, Jon, not even for my king," he said firmly and Jon rose to his feet and patted him on the shoulder.
"No, my prince, she'll not be. On that, you have my solemn vow."
Striking his sword against the training dummy and spinning quickly to bring it to bear against another, Viserys cleared his mind somewhat and then heard the giggles to his left. He turned to see her standing there and once more the sight of her almost shocked him. Dany had grown, not too much in height, but certainly in stature. She was far more confident and composed and he thanked the gods for it as had done so since she arrived.
"Shouldn't you still be abed?" he asked as he sheathed his sword and moved to the water jug.
"I was hungry and wished to eat with my brother." she replied cheekily and he chuckled as he drank down some cool water and then moved to her "You smell," she said crinkling her nose.
"No doubt. So let us see just how hungry you are sister mine, should I bathe and then we can eat or…
"NO. I'm hungry now," she said determinedly and he chuckled again.
They walked arm in arm, Dany laughing at his japes and showing they were truly funny, unlike those ones he'd tell her years earlier. He knew the difference now between her true laugh and her false one. Where once she'd laugh or defer to him in fear of waking the dragon, now things were much more honest between them. He'd apologized profusely for the hurt he'd caused her over the years. Viserys had sought no excuses for it and he'd just told her how sorry he was. Something she appreciated he felt.
Though she'd only been here a few days, things felt the way they always should between them. The way they had before he'd begun to take out his frustrations at the life they lived on her and not focus it on where it belonged. Absence had indeed made the heart grow fonder. Their time spent apart from each other had shown just how much they truly cared for each other, it had reinforced the bonds of family that never should have needed to be reinforced.
"You're doing it again," Dany said with a giggle as they entered the large hall where most of the men took their meals.
"Doing what sweet sister?" he asked playing along.
"That frowny thing you do with your face at times."
"I do not do a frowny thing?" he said pretending to be affronted.
"Here let me fix it," she said stopping them in the middle of the hall and turning to face him.
He looked at her as her hands moved to his face and he felt her fingers on his lips. How he didn't just double over in his laughter, he knew not. But when she literally turned his frown upside down and then looked at him and nodded, he laughed as loudly and as truly as he had ever done. Even when they took their seats and their meals were brought to him, each time his eyes caught her own or he saw that satisfied and smug expression on her face, Viserys' laughter began anew.
They spent most of the day riding across the open ground just outside the city. Jon had sent more than enough men of the Company of the Sea Snake to ensure they did so safely and Viserys brought both sword and dagger with him just in case. Though he did leave the sword strapped to his horse's saddle rather than to his hip. His sister he'd found out was a natural on a horse. She rode far better than he did and yet he'd been practicing with the Company's cavalry. Seeing the look on her face, how excited and happy she was to both do this and for him to be a part of it, Viserys thanked the gods for granting him this favor.
It allowed him to completely put away those last remaining fears and doubts he had about their separation. As did speaking to her later on that night when they ate dinner together. Both of them now had a better life, they were parted true, but not for forever and it had served them well. Just as he was, Dany too was learning the things she needed to know as a princess of the blood. Some of their lessons even overlapped and she had a different view on things than he, Jon, and maybe even his nephew had. A way of looking at things that offered the potential for different paths and ones he'd not considered. As he left her to her room, he told her so and that he had no doubt their nephew would think so too.
"You really believe I know things?" she asked slightly warily.
"As much as I do, and yet you see things differently."
"As a woman," she said slightly annoyed as she dropped her gaze to the ground.
"As a princess." he said raising her chin so she was looking into his eyes "I'm so proud of you Dany. Mother would be so proud of you."
"I wish she was here with us, I wish…" he embraced her and held her tightly against him, she didn't cry though she did tremble against him for a few moments.
"I love you, Vis," she said kissing his cheek as he opened her door.
"I love you too, Dany."
King's Landing 297 AC.
Elaena.
Each morning she woke would be another that she'd need to almost pinch herself to prove she was not dreaming still. She'd see Jon laying in bed beside her, his dark hair spread out on a pillow next to her own and her hands would reach out to touch him just to know he was real. They'd lain together the night of their wedding and it hadn't been as awkward or as painful as she'd feared it may have been. Instead, they'd been comfortable with each other. Jon had taken his time and she'd felt the stirrings of pleasure too.
While she'd felt some discomfort the next morning and had hated that their soiled and bloodstained sheets had been taken for one and all to see, she'd found she'd wished to lay with him again before they rose. Something that her husband was just as keen on as she was. The second time had been much better than the first, though not as good as the third and fourth. Now she'd lost count of the number of times they'd actually lain together. All she could remember when she thought back on them was that there were still so many things for them to explore and learn about each other, and so much time to do so.
Her father had asked her if things had gone well and if she was happy, something she'd had no hesitation in telling him that they had and she was. When he'd suggested that Maester Coleman would examine her if she felt any ill effects, she'd told him there was no need. Instead, she had then confided in Lady Yara the things that the older woman would relay the substance, if not the content of, to her father at her behest. After he'd spoken to the Lady of Runestone, his questions to her had stopped and the smile he wore when he saw her with Jon was ever more true. She'd almost wished there was no tourney to attend to. As she'd rather have spent her time with her husband alone, and yet she'd enjoyed attending it too. Today was to be the Joust and she knew that it was what most of her friends, and she herself, looked for most. Sitting by her looking glass, she fixed her hair herself and then heard her husband's voice behind her.
"How are you dressed so quickly?" Jon asked as he walked back into their bed-chamber shirtless.
"How are you not?" she said smirking at him "Why if people knew that the famed Mountain Wolf could barely move in the mornings then your reputation as a fierce warrior would be shattered beyond compare" she japed.
"If people knew the reason for my laxity then I'm sure my reputation would only be expanded upon," he replied sticking his tongue out at her and then kissing her before she could truly laugh.
"JON ARRYN!" she said pushing him away as she tried to get the breath back that he'd stolen from her.
"ELAENA ARRYN!" he replied in the exact same tone and the fight with her laughter was lost once more.
She'd not wished to name him such, as she was more than happy enough to continue naming himself as Jon Snow until the truth of who he was, was finally revealed. Yet he'd told her that it was what would be expected. He may not bear his uncle's name, but he'd not be allowed to bear the one people knew him as when wed to her. Besides he'd told her cheekily, that soon enough she'd be bearing his name anyway.
Elaena watched him dress and he did so quickly now that he'd seen she was ready. He helped her to her feet and they made their way to break their fast. Both of them hoped that the Scary Fish wouldn't be there this morning and knowing that while the gods may have favored them in their match, they'd not be so forthcoming on such a trifling matter. Something that was proved right when they entered to see her brother, father, and a glaring Scary Fish sitting at the table.
"Father, brother, Lady Lysa," she said politely as Jon moved a chair away from the table so she could sit down.
"Laeny." her brother said happily while her father winked at her.
"My lady, my lord, brother," Jon said, the last part to annoy the Scary Fish and direct her ire at him as he often now tried to do.
Robert, she knew loved being named so and Jon had told him that goodbrother was such a mouthful and that since he was brother to his wife, that made him his brother too. Lysa on the other hand was not best pleased and only for their father and Robert himself, or the argument would have been as loud as the one about her brother sitting with them. It was another thing that Robert loved she knew. That and the sparring that Jon and Gyles would take time to have with him in the yard. Her husband treated her brother as family and he'd allow no one to disrespect the future Lord of the Vale in his presence.
"Who should we put our coin on in the jousts, brother?" Jon asked as Robert looked at him as if he was giving it much thought, her father watching them both with a smirk on his face while Lysa glowered as usual.
"Is Ser Arthur definitely not competing, Jon?"
"He refuses to poke the Lions too much, brother mine," she said when Jon took a moment or two to answer.
"Then it'll be Sandor, Ser Loras, Ser Barristan, or Ser Jaime who takes the day." Robert said and she caught both her father and Jon's slight nod at his words "I'll wager it'll be Ser Jaime." her brother finally decided.
"Then I shall place mine own coin beside yours. Just think of what we can buy with our winnings, eh," Jon said and again she saw how Robert's eyes widened as the thoughts soon came to him.
They'd not be going directly to the tourney grounds as they'd be meeting up with Jon's family and their friends first. Robert would be visiting with Lord Edmure and Ser Brynden, while her father had work to do before the day's festivities began. So after eating, saying her goodbyes for now and placing a kiss on both her father and brother's cheeks. Jon then led her from the Tower of the Hand and they were soon joined by Mya and Mychel, Waymar and Ysilla, and finally Domeric as they made their way to meet up with the Starks.
Less than two hours later they were watching the first of the jousts. Behind them stood Ser Arthur and Sandor, the latter had for some reason decided not to compete. The first few tilts were dull and so Elaena split her time between speaking to Ysilla and watching as Jon spoke to his brothers, sister, squire, and her own brother. Gyles, Robert, Arya, and Bran all ate up the words he spoke like they were a fine meal and then looked out to the jousts to see the truth of those words come true. They had lunch together. it was a boisterous and enjoyable affair and the afternoon's jousts were far more exciting than the mornings.
Yet by the time they got to the last eight competitors, even the enthusiasm of the youngest amongst them had begun to dim. Or it did until Ser Barristan came out to face off against Lord Roland Crakehall. The man was just as fierce and large as his son, the Strongboar, and Elaena heard the excited whispers in the crowd and amongst those sitting with them.
"The Bold," Bran said reverently.
"The Bold will win this," Gyles said with an assured nod.
"Ser Jon is one of the few who could give him a true match." her brother said and she smiled as she heard him speak so of her husband.
Five lances it took and it was indeed Ser Barristan who took the day. The next match was won by Ser Loras who wore a cloak covered in what seemed to be, forget-me-nots. He'd made himself a favorite among the maidens by presenting a rose after each victory and yet had not moved once in their direction to do so. Given that she was wed and Sansa betrothed, only Jeyne, Mya and Ysilla could all technically be amenable to receiving such a gift. Yet be it because he knew that Mya and Jeyne's hearts led in another direction or that he feared he'd upset the Brotherhood in some way, thus far he'd rode past them. Something that she knew Ysilla was a little put out by.
His opponent was Lord Beric Dondarrion and the young Lightning Lord had won many admirers too, though his squire was who had found the most favor amongst Elaena and her friends. Ser Arthur's nephew, Ned Dayne, had been welcomed to spar against both Jon and Gyles and once to his obvious delight against Arthur himself too. As the two men rode towards each other, Elaena found herself cheering for the Lightning Lord, only to find it was to be Loras who took the day. Beric finally fell in three tilts in the end.
It was Ser Jaime against Lord Yohn next and all of them other than Jon cheered for the Lord of Runestone. Though to be fair to him, Jon had cheered for no one during the jousts. Six tilts it took and Ser Jaime won the day leaving Thoros of Myr to face The Blackfish as the next two competitors. Again she and those closest to her, as well as the Starks, cheered for the Knight of the Bloody gate and Ser Brynden took the day in four.
By now the excitement was rising and when Ser Loras rode out to face off against the Blackfish, she was not alone in wishing the match to be over with so that the other semi-final could take place. Loras won in five and this time he did ride their way, the white rose was held aloft in his hand as his horse stopped in front of Ysilla and handed it to her, bringing a true smile to her friend's face. Elaena knew now that his intent was to crown his sister and so he'd held back from gifting a rose to Ysilla until the last possible moment. Showing either arrogance or confidence that he'd make it this far.
"Who'll win, Jon?" she heard her brother ask her husband nervously.
"Our coin is safe, brother, it'll be Ser Jaime who takes the day," Jon said showing no doubt at all.
At one point she wasn't certain he'd be right, as Ser Barristan caught Ser Jaime so flush that how he remained on his horse she knew not. Yet after seven tilts, it was to be Ser Jaime to emerge victoriously, and then she and the rest of the crowd hushed when the herald stepped forward to announce the finalists.
"Your Graces, My Lords and Ladies, Good Sers and Men and Women of King's Landing and Westeros. In honor of the marriage of Ser Jon Arryn, The Mountain Wolf, and Lady Elaena Arryn, daughter to our beloved Lord Hand. We now come to the final of the joust of this tourney in the year 297 AC. Representing the Reach, I give you The Knight of Flowers, Ser Loras Tyrell."
The cheers rang out and Loras played up to the crowd, nodding to his sister who smiled beamingly at him and at his family. She caught him looking too to Lord Renly Baratheon who he'd squired for and who if whispers were true, he was more than close to.
"Representing the Kingsguard and the West, The Young Lion, Ser Jaime Lannister." though the cheers weren't as loud, there were many of them "May the best man win." the herald shouted when they'd died down and both men had taken their lances.
Four times they'd rode out against each other to no effect. Both men's lances just broke harmlessly against their shields. Jon, Robert, Bran, and Gyles were all sitting on the edge of their seats and were not alone in that. Where the Tyrells sat, she could see Ser Garlan and his mother too were both looking on the same way, while Lady Margaery wore a look of both worry and excitement. The King as well was wearing an exciting look, though his was tinged with drunkenness she believed. As for the queen, her look was almost predatory and her nostrils flared as the next tilt began.
"He has him." she heard Jon mutter and then the world seemed to stop as Ser Loras flew from his horse and landed hard on the ground.
The crowd hushed and then cheered loudly when Ser Loras rose to his feet. Ser Jaime nodded to him and received one in return. Then again the crowd hushed when Ser Jaime rode over to where the garland was and picked it up on his lance. To her's, the queen's, and who knows who else's shock it wasn't his sister that Ser Jaime crowned, it was his niece and the tears young Princess Myrcella shed as she placed the crown upon her head would have warmed even the coldest of hearts.
"Princess Myrcella, I would name you the Queen of Love and Beauty." Ser Jaime said and the crowd roared its approval at his choice.
King's Landing 297 AC.
Arthur.
Jon had asked him if he wished to take part in the tourney, but he'd refused. With both Robert and Tywin Lannister present, him winning either the melee or the joust or simply competing in either would draw their attention and ire. While he may have actually enjoyed doing so, the fewer eyes that looked his way the better. So Sandor had fought and almost won, proving well enough that those who stood at Jon and now Elaena's back were not to be trifled with.
He and Sandor had both noticed the change that had come over Jon since the wedding. He'd always been happiest when with Elaena, most able to put aside any troubles of his mine most easily when in her presence, but now it seemed even more so. For Arthur, he could not help but be reminded of Rhaegar and Lyanna. Jon's father was at times a melancholy man, but never when in Lyanna's presence, and though Jon never seemed to carry the weight of the world on his shoulders as his father did, in their joy they were most similar.
Today though it wasn't Elaena that Jon would spend time with. His wife instead had gone with her friends and Jon's cousins while he, Sandor, and Jon went to do the other thing that they'd come t King's Landing for. They would speak to their allies. It would be two meetings that they would go to today, one with Illyrio Mopatis, Varys, Monford Velaryon, and his brother. The other with Barristan and Jaime. Their talks with Ned Stark and Jon Arryn would be held far from King's Landing. With the former at Elaena's next Nameday and the latter at Winterfell in a few moon's time.
Walking through the streets, the two wolves on either side of them and he and Sandor at Jon's back, he felt some excitement. The day was drawing ever closer, the final plans would soon be drawn up and then the only thing to decide would be the when of things. Was it left to him, then he'd wait until an heir was born. Something that may happen quite soon given the sounds that would come from Jon and Elaena's room. Yet it would be Jon himself that decided and Arthur had faith that he'd pick the right time to begin the restoration for true.
"The wolves, Arthur," Sandor whispered taking him from his thoughts.
"Jon?"
"Let them about their business, Arthur, they'll catch up with us in a moment," Jon said and Arthur looked first to the two wolves who had chased a man down a side street and then to Eyas who flew over their heads.
By the time they reached the tavern that Varys had chosen for their meeting, the wolves had returned and were now back by Jon's side and Eyas was perched on the roof opposite looking down. The eunuch had wished for the meeting to be held in Chataya's, but Jon refused to be seen even walking into a brother lest word was spread of him frequenting such a place. As they entered the tavern and were led to the small room upstairs, Arthur smiled at the memory of his angered words to Varys for suggesting it.
"I'll not for one moment let anyone dare speak or even think such things of me, Lord Varys. I'm not Robert Baratheon and Elaena is most certainly not Cersei Lannister. Not even knowing the truth of my visit and with no risk of our meeting being discovered would I shame my wife so."
The two wolves entered the room alongside Sandor, both of them moving about it and sniffing almost every part of it before they took their place outside the door. It was Varys who arrived first and Jon who nodded at Sandor to signal his arrival. Both Monford and Aurane were next and followed lastly by Illyrio. Jon had told him what it was the man sought and some of his reasoning behind his aid. Arthur had been aware of Rhaegar's visit to Pentos but was not yet a Kingsguard and so he was not a part of it, and Jon seemed to trust the Magister's words and his motives.
"Ser Jon," Illyrio said when he entered and with a nod of Jon's head, Sandor moved to the door and allowed a girl to bring in refreshments, of which only Illyrio truly partook.
"The time draws ever closer, my friends. I believe when next I enter this city it'll be to take it for true." Jon said his voice even and without a waver.
"Have you considered the Reach, Ser Jon?" Monford asked.
"I have a plan for it, more than one in fact but I need to decide which one is truly for the best. We have Houses Leal to my family there, Houses I believe if they knew the truth of me would come, but to bring it all it's the Tyrells we must win over and I know not if that can be done."
"I believe it's only a matter of time before a betrothal offer is made, Ser Jon." Varys said and all eyes turned to him "The one thing in our favor being that neither the King, Queen, or Hand are pressing the matter."
"My Goodfather could stall it mayhap until we move, but my fear is that once we did, then practicality demands the offer made," Jon said.
"The Leal Houses, Ser Jon, I take it you mean Tarly and Rowan among others?" Aurane asked.
"Among others. Were we to but just take Tarly from them it would be a huge blow, for it was he and not Lord Mace who won the day at Ashford. So on that alone, he'd be a boon to our cause. For the message it sent and who may follow,…" Jon's words trailed off "But that's a contingency my friends and if the gods are good, it's one we need not follow."
"The Vale and the North, Ser Jon?" Illyrio asked.
"We have my uncle and goodfather, I believe Lord Manderly and Lord Royce too will declare for me when the time comes. The time is drawing ever closer for more and more to be brought into the loop, Magister. Lord Bolton I believe will come to my side as will Lord Redfort, and as long as the reasons for war are pressing, so too will the rest of the North and Vale. Was I a betting man, then I'd wager we'd have the entirety of both when we march. Some if not all the Riverlords and the Lords of the Narrow Sea too" Jon said to a nod from Monford "Added to the Company of the Sea Snake and should we be the ones to decide the when and where that this war will be fought, I feel it will be enough."
"Dorne?" Varys asked and Jon looked to him to answer.
"Prince Oberyn knows the truth and we all know what it is Dorne truly seeks. What concessions they'll ask for or boons they'll demand we know not yet, but I believe we can expect some if not complete support from Dorne," he said to some nods and worried looks.
"My friends, I believe we've covered all we can without the day itself being upon us. What the trigger for the war to begin is to be, I know not as of yet. Were I just to rise and claim my throne then I feel it to be a harder path to victory and so on that, I must ponder more and consider things most carefully. However, I do believe the day fast approaches and so I bid you all make ready, for I doubt we'll see a year or two more with things as they are now." Jon said as he rose to his feet and raised up a mug of water while offering a toast "To the Future, that we Seek, may it be the one we all hope for."
Jon spoke briefly to Monford and Aurane before they left, then to Varys who they'd be seeing later at the other meeting as well. He asked Illyrio to stay and they spoke only about his uncle and aunt, Jon surprised the man and them too with what he said as they did so.
"You wish to visit them, Ser Jon, are you certain that's wise?" Illyrio asked, Arthur glad of the man's words.
"I need to see the Company of the Sea Snake, to speak to Lord Connington and Ser Richard. Both my aunt and uncle are already there and to sail on from Gulltown is no great feat. My wife wishes to see Braavos and we can use that as our cover. But in truth I find myself longing to meet my kin, Magister, and with both of them in the same place, it's an opportunity I'm loath to pass up." Jon said and the look on his face showed his wishes as much as his words had expressed them.
"Then I'll set sail on the morrow, Ser Jon, so we're not seen to travel too close together lest word spread. I look forward to seeing you again in Lorath, and I'm most sure your aunt and uncle will be joyful to see you there." Illyrio said.
"As I will be them, Magister. You have my thanks for all you've done for them and me, truly".
After the Magister left, he asked Jon if he was sure and was told that he was. They held the second meeting near dusk. He, Jon, Sandor, the wolves, Barristan, Jaime, and Varys all met in the bowels of the Red Keep. Jaime and Barristan were given leave to see to the safety of the children and of Jaime's brother. His former brother asked about his sister and was told that while Jon held nothing against Cersei, it would be easier were she to remain as she was even after the war began. Though he was given leave to see her to safety too if he felt it could be done.
Barristan made plans to come to their side at the first opportunity he got and agreed to help Jaime as much as he could. Though Arthur could tell by the look in his eyes that if the Bold believed by doing so he was risking his place by Jon's side, then Jaime would be somewhat alone in what he felt needed to be done. They spoke then, he, Jaime, and Barristan, of days past and of those to come, and then they bid each other their true farewells. The next ones they spoke would be more in public and so may not be able to be uttered at all.
Jon spoke long and hard to Varys, the two of them discussing things that neither he nor Sandor were a part of, though they were both told later. They were plans, some discarded and others not, a campaign hidden in the shadows that would begin once they were free and clear of this city and Arthur took comfort in that. As he did a few days later when they found themselves on a ship heading north and to more of Rhaegar's kin.
King's Landing/Lorath 297 AC.
Jon Snow.
He'd spoken to his supporters, all of those who wished for him to wear the crown, that he speak to safely. In Magister Illyrio he'd found someone he believed he could trust and that the realm would prosper under as Master of Coin. Given all the man had done to see the North and his supporters rise and what he'd done for his family in Essos, the reward he sought was a small one, Jon felt. Lord Monford and Lord Varys would continue to do as they had been. Though the time for them to begin reaching out to others was fast approaching.
As for Ser Jaime and Ser Barristan. Jon was happy to see how eager both men were for the change to come. He'd given them leave to make their own plans and preparations to ensure their own safety, and in Jaime's case, the safety of those he cared about. Before he made his move he would speak to Lord Varys again so he knew they were ready to do what they both needed to do. He'd not yet spoken to his uncle Ned nor Jon Arryn. Here and now was not really the place he felt comfortable doing so to either which was a funny thought when he did actually think about it. Especially since he'd discussed enough things that should they be found out would cost him his head.
Jon though felt it was right to wait in this regard. He knew that Elaena's nameday was soon to approach and his goodfather would make his return to the Vale as always. There was a wish that was almost a need to visit Winterfell himself too before he moved for the throne. What that move would actually look like, he had yet to decide and that was just another reason why he wished to have longer and more drawn out conversations with both men far from King's Landing. That it allowed him his last few days to be unhindered of such thoughts and simply days where he could spend them with his wife, friends, and family, was something he appreciated greatly. But all things must come to an end and it was to be him that was setting sail before his uncle and cousins, the man who'd raised him as a father, and his brothers and sisters in truth.
"I'll miss you, brother." he said to Bran who offered him a sad smile "Keep up your training and when the time comes, I'm sure I'll find you a worthy knight to squire for," he whispered as they hugged.
"Thank you, Jon," Sansa said as they too hugged.
"It wasn't me, Sansa, your betrothed couldn't bear to be parted from you before it could be held back no longer," he said softly and he didn't need to look to see her smiling face when she then embraced Elaena just as warmly.
"Can you not…" Arya began only for Jon to pull her even more tightly to him than he had Sansa or Bran.
"When next I see you I'll bring you a gift, little sister, one that will put that smile I love so much back on your face," he said and she tried her best to smile at him, she really did.
"Will I see you before I'm wed, brother?" Robb asked and Jon nodded.
"I believe so, brother, if not then I'll be there on the day you do, on that you have my vow," he said as they embraced but briefly, the two of them more awkward in this regard as men and older than his sisters or younger brother.
"I am so proud of you, Jon, you and Elaena, it fills my heart with joy to see you both have found something in each other. Truly it does." his aunt said and Jon welcomed her embrace most of all.
"Thank you, aunt, for all you've done for me, and for what you've taught me about being the man I must be," he said and felt her soft kiss on his cheek.
He turned and face his uncle and saw the proud look on his face. To his surprise, he was embraced once again as his aunt spoke softly to his wife.
"She'd be so proud of you too, Jon, I know she would." his uncle whispered in his ear.
"Thank you. I'll see you as soon as I can, thank you," he said unable to name him as uncle lest someone hear and yet not quite able to name him as his father either.
They set sail later that day. He and Elaena had gone to say their goodbyes to the King and Queen and to thank them for the honor they'd given them in hosting their wedding. While one looked sad by their departure, the other very much did not and so he was happy enough when they were able to say their goodbyes to his goodfather and goodbrother in the Tower of the Hand and not the Throne Room.
Jon Arryn wished him well and a safe journey before moving to speak to Elaena, while Robert looked upset somewhat at their leaving. Something that Jon did his best to relieve him of and with promises of more spars with Gyles and of a trip to see him in the Eyrie upon his return, he seemed to manage it right up until Elaena said her own goodbyes to her brother. His wife needed his comfort then, just as Robert needed his father's when they left.
Standing on the ship, looking at King's Landing fading from view, Jon's eyes soon turned east and he felt his excitement rise.
A few days later.
He saw the island come into view as the sun rose. Elaena lay sleeping in their cabin and other than Arthur and the wolves or the sailors on deck, he was alone. Jon had wished to see it, to look to the lands and know that his aunt and uncle awaited, rather than be told they'd arrived. Why that was, he wasn't quite sure, but he knew that it was something he needed to do. They were still hours away and so after some time standing on deck, he, Arthur, Winter, and Frost all made their way back below deck.
Soon enough the rest of his companions began to rise, Jon, himself waking Elaena and telling her that they were almost there. His wife shared his own excitement most keenly. She knew how much this visit meant to him and had soothed his nerves when they threatened to get the better of him. In truth he had nothing to be nervous about, he'd shared letters with his aunt and uncle, knew them somewhat, and yet as those around him broke their fasts, he drank water and ate little.
When the ship docked, it was to see Jon Connington and some men of the Company of the Seahorse waiting for them. The smile on the redheaded man's face was a true one as he welcomed him, Elaena, Mya, Ysilla, and the Brotherhood, along with Sandor and Arthur to Lorath. There was some consternation among the guards he brought with him and some concern in the man's own expression when he saw the wolves. But his rubbing of both their heads soon put that all to rest.
"Your grace, welcome to Lorath." Jon Connington said and for some reason, he felt more a king today than he had since he'd found out the truth about himself.
"Lord Jon, It's good to be welcomed so. My wife, Elaena you've met before."
"Your grace," Jon said kissing Elaena's hand and it was his wife and not he who bid the man not to name them so, for fear of being overheard and not because she didn't feel like a queen.
"I'd prefer to use names, Lord Jon, for now at least," Elaena said.
"Of course, you…Lady Elaena." Jon stuttered "Though here you're most safe and amongst men who are Leal."
"I've no doubt and was casting no aspersions on the honor or loyalty of you or the men, Lord Jon, just being wary."
"A good trait to have, Lady Elaena," Jon said smiling.
After introducing him to the rest of his party, most of whom he knew, he bid Lord Jon escort them to the Company's Barracks and felt his excitement rise once more. They rode on horses rather than in carriages, all but Ysilla happy to do so. Not that she was put out or against riding horses mind, but she'd not taken too kindly to the Essos weather and she had hoped for the coolness and cover that a carriage may provide. Thankfully the ride itself took no time at all and as they rode, Lord Jon spoke to him and pointed out the Company's true strength.
"Half the ships you see in the docks belong to the Company, Ser Jon." Lord Jon said taking his wife's words to heart much to her delight given the small smile she wore "As for the barracks itself."
Lord Jon pointed them out in the distance and it was a more than impressive sight. Numerous buildings and large walls, this was not something that could be taken easily. The closer they got to it, the more apparent that truly was. Jon looked to Arthur and Sandor and could see they were impressed. As were Waymar and Mychel behind them. How many men were being drilled, he knew not, but it was far more than he'd ever seen at Runestone or any keep in the Vale. More so than even at Winterfell he'd wager.
"How often are the men drilled?" he asked curiously.
"Daily, Ser Jon. Those who are here drill daily in some fashion or other. We have cavalry drills, weapon drills, and tactical and formation drills. There is not an army better trained anywhere in Essos, not even the Golden Company could match us for skills. Though they would beat us in number."
"And against Westerosi?" Arthur asked.
"Test their mettle, Ser Arthur, put them through whatever paces you deem necessary, these men will pass any test of that I've no doubt. We've done our best, Ser Richard and I, we've done our best to prepare them not just for Westeros but to take the best of Essos too. Our cavalry has Dothraki archers amongst them and no Westeros army has ever faced such." Lord Jon said proudly.
"No one would deny the good work you've done here, Lord Jon, you and Ser Richard should rightly be proud of it," he said and he swore the man almost wept at his words.
He saw them as they rode through the gates, the two of them stood no more than fifty feet from him and when Winter and Frost ran towards them, Jon began to call out and dismounted his horse quickly to run after the wolves.
"Stand down, Stand down, the wolves mean you all no harm," he shouted as he raced towards his aunt and uncle.
It was his aunt who moved first. Winter quickly knelt down beside her and allowed her to rub her hand through her fur, while Frost then did the same beside his uncle. Viserys was slightly warier than his sister, but in less than a moment he too was doing as she was. By the time Jon reached them, his aunt and uncle wore smiles as large as his own now was. The two wolves had known. They'd known they were kin. That they were pack.
"Aunt, uncle," he said and before he knew it he was being embraced by one and then the other, tears falling down his and his aunt's cheeks, while his uncle did his best to be stoic and fight back his own.
"It's so good to finally meet you, nephew, so very good." his aunt said and Jon was barely able to reply, the word that came from him the only one he could manage.
"Daeron."
A/N: Thanks to all who've read and reviewed. Up Next A year is a long time in Westeros as Jon reflects upon his time with his aunt and uncle, the Starks receive gifts and an event in King's Landing brings us to the very edge of the war of restoration.
For some reason I really hated this chapter, don't know why, it just felt a bit plodding to me, needed, but plodding.
For those following my other fics, The Last Wolf and Northern Dragon is up next, probably tomorrow.
Supremus: So glad you're liking it.
14omega: We're just on the verge of the canon timeline kicking off.
Aristal: I think so too, especially when it's the wolves as it brings up the whole, the wolves know sort of thing to mind.
Celexys: I didn't want to drag it out for so little payback, I mean we know Jon's not dying at this point so it would have been a cliff-hanger for its own sake and not really serve the story that much. Better if they're going to be used that they be actual stakes involved. The next chapter takes us right up to where the books begin and the true meat of the story.
Mrmcnasty: So glad to hear that, My name is Daemon is to update this coming week too.
J: it was truly hidden like we're talking under his shirt, now had he actually been poisoned it would have been discovered, but he was lucky enough. Illyrio and Jon were out of hearing of anyone and so he sort of slipped plus since he knows the full truth he finds it harder to name Ned as something he's not. Omg, I can't believe I got the Jonquil bit so wrong, seriously I always thought it was the way I'd written it, thanks for pointing that out, truly. Such a silly mistake lol.
Rhatch: It's funny, there are a few characters in ASOIAF that really do have the same mentality. Tyrion thinks it too, Tywin certainly does, Varys I think so too to an extent, and Doran especially. But LF is sort of the king of that line of thinking.
Dorodrigo: So very glad you liked it.
Dunk: It was all Winter. Jon knew nothing about it, though had he seen what Elaena had then he'd have figured it out. With LF, he sort of has one other aspect in his favor so far in that while he's who he is, he's not fully done anything other than being somewhat himself if that makes sense. Up to now he's not truly taken any action against Jon or anyone that is really overt. The attack on Elaena/Jon Arryn in the Vale does really come across as a standard attack and so no one truly looks more into it, and this, had it actually caused any damage, well it might. He's also helped by the fact that Elaena dislikes him so much that even though she felt something here, in time she'd put it down to not liking him more so than, oh, he tried x or y. However, we're at the canon timeline stage and just like in canon, his actions here will be more overt and so more suspicious. So for example, while Ned would and did sort of trust him in canon, here he'd not, so any action he took would be looked at in that manner.
I sort of hinted at the difference here and in the last chapter with Cat, LF called out Jon, but Cat knows Jon and so rather than looking suspiciously at him, she now looks more suspiciously at LF. It's a minor change, but a key one. But like I say, more actual harmful and overt actions are about to be taken and so eyes will look at him that would not in canon. On Sweetrobin, we'll see. You raise an interesting point with the Tyrells, and it's one you see Viserys thinking on here, but the timing has to be right, because there is a risk to it, especially if Olenna can get the wedding to Joff sooner than later.
We'll be seeing what I hope is just the right amount of intrigue over the next few chapters which are what I like to call The Shadow War, moves being made before the battle lines are drawn and begin for real. On the reunion, I'm sort of splitting it between a few povs and some will be in FB.
Keb: Thanks for that, I completely messed up that part, so it's much appreciated.
Big Willy: He may get the last laugh though.
Guest: Yes it is, which is why it takes time between them.
