A Song of Fire, Ice and Hearts

by Jebest4781

Venturing outside of the Heart of his Somebody, a Nobody enters a World where it's at the brink of self destruction. Will he be able to handle and survive the Game of Thrones. Rated M for language, violence, etc. Pairings hidden at current time. KHXGoT/ASoIaF CoWritten by free man writer. Cover Image by Carlos M. Please leave reviews.

39. Baelor

Disclaimer: I do not own anything related to Disney, Square-Enix, Game of Thrones/A Song of Ice and Fire or anything else. They rightfully belong to their respective owners.

"Speech"

'Thoughts'

Writing/Singing

"Foreign Language/Flashback"

-Scene Shift-

Chapter 39: Baelor

He was present at Harrenhal's tourney, on the last day of the jousts. More specifically, observing the final joust among his friends and family.

On each end of the field were two individuals who drew the attention of countless attendees. How each held much sway and prestige in their own right.

Prince Rhaegar, heir to the Iron Throne and the Seven Kingdoms, was never touched by a lance by any of his opponents. For his lances struck them before they could. For there was -outside of some members of the Kingsguard- hardly a worthy foe for the crown prince.

Ventus of the Keyblade had been struck by lances, but he never fell off his horse. Though he nearly fell a few times against some worthy opponents. He persevered each time and won each match.

The two competitors would clash several times over, making it a spectacle for the ages. In the end, Ventus pulled out a surprise victory and became the joust's champion of the infamous tourney.

He could vaguely recall the look of astonishment and conflict that befell the face of Rhaegar.

In Ventus' grasp was his prize to give to whoever he wished. The champion's crown composed of winter roses was desired by many, but only one person would earn it. For they needed to win the man's heart, either by her beauty, charisma or something more.

Ned saw three contenders for it, given Ventus spent much time with them throughout the duration of the Tourney: Cersei Lannister, Lyanna Stark and Elia Martell.

The Quiet Wolf would soon realize each held great affection for the Keybearer, one way or another.

In a surprising decision, Ventus gave it to Princess Rhaenys' Targaryen… well, not really her but to her mother, where they presently sat at the booth of the Royal Family. The little princess merely played with the crown of winter roses after Elia took it off.

It was an adorable sight to many, but troubling to others, given Ventus gave it to the wife of the unseated Rhaegar. Them believing he meant to slight the crown prince, in several ways.

Like them, Ned wondered what would've happened if Ventus gave the Champion's crown to Cersei or Lyanna. Or if Rhaegar won instead.

The dream began to shift. He could envision seeing his sister being taken to the Riverlands by Rhaegar after she was persuaded by his lies to reunite with Ventus. All before it shifted once more, seeing her lying in a blood-soaked bed in the Tower of Joy.

"Why didn't you promise me you'll protect him?" She says hauntingly. "Why didn't you keep your promise?"

"But I did!"

"You didn't!" Screamed Lyanna, blood dripping out of her mouth and eyes, blue winter rose petals covered in red flowing around her. "He was treated poorly by Catelyn! You could've told her the truth! And now he's at the Wall for the rest of his days!"

Ned looked away in shame. Him feeling so much weight placed upon him.

As this happened, he saw Ashara Dayne. She was standing at the edge of a cliff with a bundle of cloth in her arms.

"Why did he have to die?" She questioned him. "He was my brother. You could've tried harder to keep him alive."

Terror gripped the Quiet Wolf, reaching out for the love of his life.

"I have tried, but-"

"And you should've come to me sooner. Or else I wouldn't have joined him."

Before Ned could respond, he saw her step back and fall off the cliff and to the rocky waters below. He screamed out her name while hearing a baby's cry filling the air before it was silenced by the roaring waves. The man was now clutching the sides of his head, feeling his emotions thrashing about inside when the environment changed once again.

Next thing he knew, the Stark found himself in a bedchamber. Robert lying on the bed with tired, hollowed eyes.

"Ah, look at us, Ned." Robert chuckled painfully. "Me, killed by Vanitas. You will probably be killed by Joffrey."

"I failed you. I withheld the truth too long. I-"

"Stiff-necked fool. Save your words. You're just too proud to listen when needed."

These were the last words Robert's phantom said to him before darkness consumed his form with an agonizing scream.

In that same darkness, Ned saw Lewyn Martell hunched over clutching his chest.

"Can your pride protect you? That damned honor you wear won't save you and others from everything. After all," the former Kingsguard gets up straighter, showing the hole in his chest, "it failed me in protecting myself, my niece and her children."

Like Robert, he was soon consumed by the darkness.

It felt like an eternity for Ned, him wallowing in his failures.

Many decisions he's made throughout his life. Actions he went through. Only a good number still bring him shame for what he's done.

The last phantom who appeared before him was someone who was quite familiar to the Quiet Wolf. He mistook him for Roxas… however, his appearance and demeanor was different, making him realize it was the young man he called a blood brother. One who was a better one than Robert.

"You come to mock and guilt me like the rest of the dead… Ven?"

A hurt look crossed the blonde teen's features. "Why would I?"

Ned sobbed now. "I failed them, just like I failed you."

"Why would you have failed me?"

"If we got to the capital sooner, Elia and her children would've been saved. If that happened, you could've stayed and Lyanna would still be alive. Then… Ashara and…"

"Maybe, maybe not. In a different time of the stream of life, such things would have resulted differently." Says Ventus. "There are things we wish to change in the past. But what happened, happened. There's no way around it." He then smiles softly at his friend. "However, things can change for the future. I'm sure of it."

The Lord of Winterfell gazed up at his old friend, a pain feeling in his chest, one of longing for the past at the familiar, brotherly smile Ven always had for him and Robert.

"How can you be so sure?" Ned quietly asked.

The specter of Ven floated closer to him, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder. "We may be weak in our own rights, but it's for that reason that we try hard to grow stronger. We have to. You may consider our steps to be futile, but each step we take, we are most surely building something from learning from our mistakes."

The scenery around them shifted, more in fact of there being lights flickering in the darkness. They grew brighter to reveal the two were in the Crypts of Winterfell.

Glancing towards the stone visages of his ancestors, Ned could feel their judging gaze upon him. He gazed back, reflecting on their histories.

Yet one factor kept surfacing the most.

"I wasn't prepared to lead. I was the second son. I was trained to follow my brother."

"Yet you were thrusted into the position due to circumstances." The Keybearer says. "I mean, that's what happened to me during the Rebellion. I never had any knowledge on how to lead beforehand. I merely followed others, much like I was taught to follow my Heart. Turned out I needed to learn to follow before I could lead."

Ventus walked onward into the darkness. Ned was quick to follow as he didn't want to be left behind. He ignored the phantom stares of the Starks of old all the while focusing on his old friend. Oddly enough, Ventus was a figurative torchlight with a glow around him.

"And what about you? I mean, look at you. You're a great leader. You worry for your people. That should at least mean something, Ned." Ven gave him a reassuring smile. "The North loves and adores you." Soon the smile becomes awkward. "Well, maybe not all of it if I remember things right."

"I did all I could, thinking what my father and brother would've done like our forefathers." Ned recalls a lesson his father spoke of years ago. It was more for Brandon back then, but he knew it meant a lot for the family. "Those below me will protect those below them. We men should be capable of doing that much, at least."

"They would be proud, but you're not them. You're you." Ventus turns to face Ned. "You can look upon their acts and histories. Learn from their mistakes so you hopefully won't repeat them. But as the saying goes, lesser men emulate their greatness."

"I don't know what you-"

"You didn't have to act so brave all the time, Ned. There are others who can see you can be weak. Letting them know you were just a man with faults of his own. You can be better than trying to act like a seemingly perfect man. You can be more than that."

Ned was silent for a few moments.

"How can you be certain?"

"It can be surprising if you at least try. Or have you forgotten that?"

Apparently, the Quiet Wolf did, or at least had a foggy memory of it.

"I'm sure we can change. Because we are weak. Because we die. We struggle to live, and we become stronger. And if your mind isn't made up… try to remember… the days we spent together."

The red leaves of the weirwood obscured Ned's vision momentarily. Once they passed, he saw a different place. He didn't focus much on the environment. Only that he could note that there was a pleasant Spring sweeping the land.

It was there he focused on who was there before him.

There he saw so many people he knew in his life. Both who are still alive and those who are dead. Mostly they were those who greatly affected his life in a positive manner.

A great number of individuals he had interacted with during the two wars he took part in. And those before and after.

He saw Robert. Still in his overweight self, given Ned barely recalls how he truly was like years prior. Beside him on one side was his brother Stannis, looking stern as always. On the other was Renly who gave the Stark a small smile. And close to Robert was Princess Myrcella.

Jon Arryn was there. Appearing like Ned last saw him nearly a decade ago at the end of the Greyjoy Rebellion. Near him were Thoros of Myr and Beric Dondarrion.

Lewyn Martell alongside several members of his household. Oberyn was giving his typical smirk as he stood beside his paramour Ellaria. Naymor was alongside his cousins Obara, Nymeria, Tyene and Princess Arianne. Elia was there with little Rhaenys in one arm while seeing a bundle of cloth in the other, no doubt containing baby Aegon.

Ashara Dayne, beautiful as ever, stood beside her brother, Arthur.

Ned saw his parents, his brothers, his sister. He saw his wife standing beside their children. Amongst them was Jon.

Lastly, Roxas was there. He was tucked into the congregated mass as he was situated in between Sansa, Myrcella and Tyene.

Ventus was still beside Ned as the Stark reflected on his experience.

"Living all this time, I didn't know if I was cursed or blessed with such company. Hard to say, really. Though it's hard for me if I'd trade everything to be with them all over again. My life has felt fulfilling, but it's not the same without sharing it with the ones I've lost. I could've done more in making things right."

"That's what many of us strive to live for." Ven says with a small smile.

Flickers of hope begin to light within Ned. Before they could burn brighter…

Ned woke up with an intake of air. He was greeted by the cold darkness of the Black Cells.

Yet the darkness momentarily receded by torchlight. One which had the Stark's eyes focused from momentary bleariness.

"You've seen better days, my lord."

Ned shifts in his spot, seeing it was Varys holding the torch.

"Another visit?" Ned breathes out. "It seems you're my last friend in this godforsaken place."

"No, no. Many still love you." Says the Spider, handing Ned a filled-up waterskin. "Remnants of your garrison and the Dornish who answered to Lewyn are scattered. No doubt hiding or had fled from the city. Hard to tell of their thoughts. There's no true whereabouts of Arya, only rumors. I can imagine she thinks of you often. And Sansa is still well, in case you're wondering. She pleaded for mercy when she was recently brought into court."

"On her knees? Begging for me?" Ned says, once quenching some of his thirst. "And did you laugh with the others at her expense?"

Varys appeared insulted. "You do me wrong, my lord. Your blood is the last thing I want."

"I don't know what you want, aside from serving the realm as you proclaimed." He lifts the waterskin to his lips once more. "I've given up trying to guess."

Varys looks away momentarily. His thoughts wavering elsewhere.

"When I was still a boy, before my balls were cut off with a hot knife, I traveled with a group of actors through the Free Cities." Says the Spider, drawing the Quiet Wolf's attention. "They taught me that each man has a role to play. The same is true at court. I am the Master of Whisperers. My role is to be sly, obsequious and without scruples. I'm a good actor, my lord."

Ned snorts a little. "Can you free me from this pit?"

"I could. But will I? Most certainly… if it weren't for those blasted creatures lurking about." Varys said honestly. "Sadly, I'm no hero."

"What do you want? Tell me." Ned says finally. "No riddles, no stories. Tell me, what do you want?"

"Peace." The eunuch kneels, being face to face with the imprisoned Wolf. "I doubt you know what happened in the outside World."

"Being what?"

"Several things." Varys soon lists them off. "Your son is marching south with an army of Northmen. Loyal lad. Intending to fight for his father's freedom."

A bit of dread wells up inside of Ned. His mind flashes back to Robert's Rebellion of him doing the same act around his son's age.

"Robb?" He says in momentary disbelief. "He's just a boy."

"Boys have been conquerors before." States the spymaster. "And I can imagine the same could be said with the Dornish of them marching and sailing northbound. I don't know when, but word will reach them soon of what occurred and they will be crying out for blood. They'll be quite the added concern Joffrey has on top of his uncles giving him sleepless nights."

"Stannis and Renly? Why?"

"After Myrcella, Lord Stannis has the best claim to the throne. He is a proven battle commander and he is utterly without mercy. Gods only know if he plans on honoring in backing her claim or going after the throne instead."

"Stannis knows his duty. He should support his trueborn niece."

"Would he? He could do the same action as Renly, who I am told is amassing his own army, both from many in the Stormlands and the Reach."

Hearing this, Ned thought back to the last time he spoke to Robert's youngest brother. He wanted the Stark to support his claim to the throne. Of his argument and comparing it to such an issue years ago which soon led to the first Blackfyre Rebellion. He didn't realize Renly would use this reason to abandon him in his time of need, taking Loras Tyrell with him.

"You're certain?"

"Why would I bring such a falsehood?"

Ned exhaled a sigh of tired frustration. "Anything else?"

"Harrenhal is no more." Varys received a look of disbelief from Ned. "I had the same reaction as well, but there was an incident about it."

Ned was quick to piece things together, given the location and recent events.

"Vanitas." Stark bitterly said, rubbing his eyes at the memory of that bastard.

"In part. From my birds, I received word he had an ally with him in slaughtering its residents. It's debatable if this Sephiroth is a new member of Organization XIII or not. Regardless, a battle ensued between them, Roxas and his company with Cloud and some apparent pet of his. There was no confirmation of this Sephiroth's demise. Likely, we have yet another new enemy to the continent at hand."

Several questions roamed through Ned's head, making him imagine how it must've happened.

"There's more…" Varys appeared apprehensive, getting a raised brow from the prisoner. "We… have a new moon."

That took Ned a few seconds to process if what he heard was in the tone of jest or complete seriousness. And it was the latter

"...Pardon?"

Varys released a sigh of bewilderment. "My birds and the minstrels sing quite the tale of its formation. Sephiroth called down the Red Comet." Ned's eyes widened in disbelief and horror. The Red comet was summoned from the heavens above? "It would've wiped out the Riverlands, perhaps more of the continent if Roxas hadn't swooped in to save the day… with a dragon, no less."

"..."

The eunuch released a sympathetic sigh. "Yes. Once more, I had the same reaction as you. Had to reread the words several times over on that particular detail." Varys absentmindedly looked toward the ceiling, envisioning where the red moon now resides. "Such a thing would be truly impossible. A miracle brought upon the gods, as many smallfolk say. They only know so much without context. Yet this was confirmed for me by the Keybearer. Much as him creating a crystalized tree reaching the heavens along with a tear in the sky only visible in the Riverlands."

The Stark's mind could only visualize what Varys spoke. Such matters, while fantastical, were merely distractions. All he wanted now was to focus on what was truly needed.

"And where is Roxas?" There was a tinge of hope underneath Ned's hardened tone.

"The Riverlands with the Lannister contingent led by Jamie Lannister. Once he recovers from his previous ordeal, I can predict he will come back to the capital with an army on his back."

"Is he and the others held captive by them?" Ned asks, referring to the Lannisters.

"Surprisingly no."

The Stark did a double-take. "...They aren't?"

"Seeing as a world calamity was prevented, the Lannister forces would not lay a finger on their savior and his allies. This out of fear, respect or something more than either." Varys gave the man a knowing look. "The Lannisters are many things but fools they are not. The entire realm would turn against them the minute they attacked the saviors of Westeros."

Seems there was some good news on that factor. Though he doesn't know how long that'll last.

"With your daughter, Sansa pleaded so sweetly for your life. It would be a shame to throw it away." Varys stands up, looking down at the imprisoned Stark with pity. "For a time, Joffrey was clearly a fool. But I don't know how long that'll last. Sooner or later, he'll know a tame wolf is more of use to him than a dead one."

"Yet he sought to have Arya's direwolf killed at the Crossroads." Ned reminded him. "I can imagine he'd do the same to me and the rest of my family." The spider was silent, having a hard time arguing this fact. "You believe I'd serve the monster who ordered the deaths of my men and allies, those who I saw as family and friends?" He spat out.

"I want you to serve the realm!" Varys says aloud with a raised voice. "As you have before, much as you may doubt it. Your Rebellion saved the realm from the Mad King, much as you may deny it. For now, tell Joffrey you will confess your vile treason and proclaim him as the true heir while telling Roxas and your son to lay down their weapons." He saw Ned was seething at this point. "Joffrey knows you're a man of honor. He's had it lodged into his head for years by Robert and others. At least prove it for the time being. If you give him the peace he desires, he'll allow you to take the Black and live out your days on the Wall, with your brother and your bastard son."

"I doubt it." Ned scoffs. "If I did, my words would be hollow. You think my life is some precious thing to me… that I would trade my honor for a few more years of… of what?" He looks away from the eunuch, softly placing his head back onto the rocky cell wall. "You grew up with actors. You learned their craft and you learned it well. But I grew up with soldiers. I learned how to die a long time ago."

Varys looked away from Ned, scrunching his face a little. "Pity. Such a pity." He starts walking towards the entrance of the black cell before turning back. "What of your daughter's life, my lord? Is that a precious thing to you?"

"NO!" Ned yelled out. "Do what you like with me, but leave Sansa out of it! She is-"

"A child?" Varys interrupts him. "Prince Rhaegar's daughter Rhaenys was a child, too. A precious little thing, younger than your girls in case you forgot." The spymaster can still picture the sweet girl in his mind. She was primarily of Dornish features yet had amethyst eyes and a streak of platinum hair among her ebony locks. "She had a small black kitten she called Baelerion, which she liked to pretend was her ancestors' infamous dragon of old. But I imagine that Gregor Clegane taught her the difference between a kitten and a dragon the day he broke down the door. The High Septon once told me that as we sin, so do we suffer. But if that's true, then why is it always the innocents who suffer most, when you High Lords play your Game of Thrones?" He focused back on Ned. "And spare a thought for this as well. Your next visitor could bring you bread and cheese. Or he could bring you Sansa's head. Or the head of her direwolf. Whatever comes first. The choice, my Lord Hand, is entirely yours."

Ned was left pondering this as Varys left him alone in the darkness.

-Elsewhere-

Things have been difficult in King's Landing. They were dull, yet tense for many.

News was quickly released, primarily the declaration of Joffrey Baratheon being the next King of the Seven Kingdoms. In addition to this, the accusations of Ned Stark attempting a coup in a selfish power grab, using the lies of Joffrey of being a bastard instead of Robert's trueborn son in order to place his sister -Myrcella- on the Iron Throne as a puppet figure. This being an additional factor with Roxas, who is closely tied to the Stark household, to help sway his betrothed's future decisions. Many people were quickly forming factions as a result with others believing another "Dance of Dragons" was on the horizon.

Rumors and tales run amok of what happened in the Red Keep. Most were spread from gossip in both court and the loyalists towards the Starks and Martells. One such tale was Joffrey commanding the Heartless and Unversed on the attempted coup, which many somewhat believed was some smear campaign to dirty the new king's image. Another was Joffrey and his council having foreseen the attempt and quickly acted, a means of harming the reputation of the Starks and Martells.

Things could only get worse for the Stark and Martell loyalists as they were scattered. Most left the city, one way or another, in order to return home, inform their lords and gather additional forces to return for an attack of retribution. Others stayed and were hiding in hopes of finding a way to save Ned Stark and his daughters. A number of these individuals were captured or ratted out to the Gold Cloaks and Lannister soldiers for a handsome reward by the smallfolk. They were desperate for coins and many had sold these people out for a profit. A handful of others were slain by the Heartless and Unversed to a grizzly fate. In the end, this left only a third… perhaps a quarter of the combined force remaining in the capital.

From a window of Maegor's Holdfast at the Red Keep, Sansa Stark looked out with worry on her face. Not just for herself but for those she has grown to love and care for.

What was once a decent sight for her to look upon daily was something else entirely as it wasn't pleasant at all. From her placement in the Red Keep, the whole world spread out before her. Beyond the walls were open country, fields and forests. And beyond that, north and north and north again stood Winterfell.

Now her vision kept being drawn to the many heads of "conspirators" and "traitors" on pikes for all to see. It was a grizzly sight to witness both up close and from afar.

'I wonder when Joffrey will force us to see them again.' Sansa thought bitterly with clenched fists as she hugged herself for some form of comfort. She felt the small nudging on her leg, having her reach down to feel the soft fur of her precious direwolf Lady.

Since the day Myrcella defied him in court, Joffrey forcefully ordered the guards to bring her and Sansa out to see the severed heads. And each day since the failed coup, more were added, making it harder to look upon.

The Baratheon princess put up a brave front, doing much to remain strong for Sansa's sake. The eldest Stark Daughter's will was wavering, but did all she could to settle her nerves by grasping the hands of her secret paramour; especially when seeing Septa Mordane's head. She may not have been the best in these past months but was considered a servant to House Stark in her eyes. However, Jeyne was not so fortunate when she was brought over the first time, for she ended up crying furiously when she saw her father's head on one of the pikes. Myrcella and Sansa did their best to shield Jeyne from looking at what was left of her father, but there was only so much they could do; especially with the guards forcing the lady steward to look.

Since that day, Jeyne slept, woke weeping, hardly ate and drank a thing, then slept again. When she could not sleep, she lay under her blankets and shivered with grief. Sansa and Myrcella tried to talk to her, but she hardly responded.

These were dark days with more to follow. They were haunting Sansa. And she greatly dreads the day of seeing the heads of her family members and even Roxas on the pikes. If that were to happen, the Stark girl would be truly broken.

'Roxas. Come save us.' The Northerner silently prayed as she looked afar as her eyes looked towards the sky where a faint red moon could be seen. 'I don't know how much longer we can take.'

Seeing the new moon in the sky was quite the spectacle. Truly unexpected as it greatly spelled doom for everyone, in some shape or form. Yet there was a feeling in her heart that her beloved Roxas was involved in its placement in the heavens.

Her thoughts of worry and other matters were momentarily pushed aside when she felt slender arms wrapped around her silk robe, covered form.

"Come back to bed, Sansa." She heard a whisper in her ear. "I miss you."

The Stark girl didn't have to look back to smile upon envisioning Myrcella's naked form. Her breasts were pressed against her back. Her childbearing hips and legs were pressed up and gracing against Sansa's own.

Spinning around, Sanda claimed the princess' lips before separating and giving a brief giggle.

In Sansa's eyes, Myrcella was a young goddess. Perhaps the Maiden made flesh as she saw the Baratheon heir truly lovely with her perfect and perky full breasts capped with small pink nipples which were developing all so well. Her rear was a good shape and size. The fair skin was flawless which seemed to be a bit more radiant with her bright, golden hair. Overall, her body was balanced to perfection.

Since that first night, they shared their passions, Sansa rarely kept her hands off of Myrcella with them kissing and touching each other. Their means of exploring and experimenting with each other temporarily relieve their worries by sharing their feelings and affections. It was like the wolf inside the Stark girl was claiming the princess as her mate, which Myrcella didn't mind as the stag lion within her sought such pleasures as well.

'She really is her father's daughter.' Sansa thought, biting her lower lip in the process. Her recalling much of what happened in bed of these past nights. They've practically done just everything imaginable they could, but for how things were, they were still virgins with their maidenhoods intact given what sexual limitations they had with their tongues and fingers feeling grand between their respective legs. 'Though I think Arianne and Tyene were quite the influence on the both of us.' The momentary pleasant mood soured with earlier thoughts returning. "I wish I could, princess, but… we must be ready for your brother." And like that, Myrcella's mood matches her paramour's own. "Would you know if Jeyne is awake?"

"She would've been up by now." Myrcella's frown deepens a bit more. "No doubt still exhausted from crying all night."

Sansa couldn't fault her oldest friend's state. "Would you mind helping me get dressed?"

"Only if you help me as well." Myrcella's lips curled up slightly, hugging Sansa and grinding all so softly against her. "Though I don't know if I'll properly fight the urge to…"

Sansa's mood lightens slightly on the implication. She releases an unlady-like snort as she shakes her head. Soon enough, Myrcella laughs a little as they properly begin getting ready.

Since that day in court, Myrcella ordered the guards who she knew were more loyal to her instead of her brother to move the belongings of Sansa and Jeyne to her chambers; both the main and the neighboring spare one. It was a clear indication she wanted to have a closer eye on the Stark girl and her stewardess by having them essentially move in with her. The action was the best she could do to keep them safe.

The Stark girl can still recall the conversation taking place following that one session in court days prior.

"Princess, you must allow us to do as we were told." Spoke one of the guards.

"I must?" The princess repeats to the guards she recalls working for Littlefinger. "And what were you told to do?"

The one guard lost the ability to use his tongue, so another spoke up in his stead. "On Lord Baelish's behalf, he asked us to escort-"

"Them to a safer place?" Myrcella interrupts them with a laugh that was awfully similar to her mother's. "I am sure… I know of a far safer place for both Lady Sansa and Lady Jeyne. You will move their belongings to my chambers here and the neighboring one." The men tried to speak up before they were interrupted once more. "That is where both will stay from now on. They can never be safer than right next to mine. Be sure to tell Lord Baelish that while his offer is appreciated, I have other thoughts on the matter. Is that understood?"

"But princess… that seems… Baelish and even your brother won't appreciate such a thing. It isn't proper for you to do such a thing."

The expression Myrcella wore truly spoke volumes, making Baelish's men believe they were in the presence of both Cersei and the late King Robert. "Proper? Don't lecture me on such things. Taking a lady and her stewardess to some unknown place and throwing the king's betrothed in some small hidden room that is unknowingly clean and maintained is improper. So I don't care what they think. Baelish is a minor lord and my brother isn't king yet, so my word is stronger at this time. And I can tell my mother would heavily agree with me on this."

Littlefinger's men were stunned and couldn't speak. It didn't help when Myrcella had Ser Preston and Ser Arys of the Kingsguard "assist" in overseeing the given task. The action earned Jeyne's favor while it earned more love from Sansa's. The latter greatly thanked the princess that evening.

The princess also desired to have whatever was left of Roxas' belongings in the Red Keep to be brought to her as well. However, that wasn't the case as Joffrey beat her to it. Yet when the guards were able to get into her betrothed's chambers, everything mysteriously disappeared. Joffrey practically went on a rampage, assuming traitors and supporters from the palace staff smuggled them away.

In truth, unbeknownst to everyone, they were indeed taken by Roxas' supporters… but they were not human.

However, as a result, Joffrey had the guards and Kingsguard round up most of the palace staff and were brought into the throne room. Once present, he tried to get information about Roxas from the poor men and women who clearly didn't know anything.

"It was foolish to torture those people in the throne room. It was cruel to go as far as he did. And it was idiotic as they clearly didn't know anything about our beloved." Myrcella said to Sansa shortly after being forced to witness the act.

There were other instances in these past days of doing whatever to pass the time. Aside from some slight activities like embroidery, the three girls went to the godswood where they often gave some prayers.

Sansa prayed that the truth of what happened would come out. That her father would be freed. For the safety of both him and his sister. Wishing for Roxas to arrive and save them all from Joffrey's madness.

Jeyne prayed for the Old Gods to grace them with salvation and justice. For the squire she has taken a fancy to -Gared Tuttle- come and help save her somehow from this living nightmare.

And Myrcella for things to be well for Westeros. For the coming war -due to her brother's unjustifiable actions- be averted. For Roxas to arrive in due time to end it.

However, three days prior, Sansa was pulled into the Small Council chambers with Joffrey demanding she write a letter to her brother Robb to come to the capital and swear fealty. It was hard for her to manage to put down the actual truth, but instead, she was forced to write a lie about her father's actions. After that, she was let go to do whatever she fancied within the Red Keep.

"I wonder what new information is circling in the palace." Sansa says, brushing Myrcella's hair from behind.

"Hard to say." Says Jeyne Poole, who came into the chamber some time prior once Sansa helped rouse her awake. Her little task now was helping find the princess a good dress to wear today. "It's mostly been what we've been hearing these past days with the new moon."

Rightfully so as two days prior when Sansa, Myrcella and Jeyne were praying in the godswood they witnessed the Red Comet apparently come down from the sky, only to be pushed back into the heavens by a streak of light. They wondered if it was a godly miracle, a sign of what was to come.

From the castle whispers, people speculated what the new Red Moon represents. A new age is most certain, but which one exactly? One for the Lannisters ruling Westeros? The return of the Old Gods or solidifying the New Gods? So on and so forth. Speculations run amok as a result.

"True. But at least it gives a break from the recent woes." Says the Stark girl.

The princess raises her one hand and gently places it on Sansa's cheek before smiling slightly. "I agree. It gets tiresome hearing the same thing over and over again."

"But I do wish I knew the actual truth of things."

"So do I. But which ones do you desire more?"

"Where my sister is, for starters." Sansa says out of worry. "I just wish she got to the ship that was supposed to take us to White Harbor. If not…"

"I hope she is safe as well… either within the city or outside of it." Myrcella broke away from the intimate hold in order to properly face her paramour. "I'm sure we will get some sort of information eventually." She says as her chamber doors suddenly open.

"Information about what, sister?"

Turning, Sansa, Jeyne and Myrcella saw Joffrey walk in, practically barging into the latter's bedchambers. He presently wore a new attire. Something gaudy in both Lannister and Baratheon colors. Following him from behind was the Hound, who was now a newly anointed member of the Kingsguard to fill in the vacant spot after Ser Barristan's dismissal. But instead of wearing the typical Kingsguard armor and white cloak, Sandor wore his usual attire.

"Your grace." Sansa said while quickly giving a curtsey.

"Your majesty." Jeyne adds in while mirroring her lady's action.

Hearing the particular greetings from the two Northerners got a sick smile from Joffrey. However, part of that smile swiftly died when he heard the growl from the direwolf Lady.

"You should put that beast away, Lady Sansa." Joffrey warns her. "I'd hate to see it die for defying me."

The Stark girl says nothing, only silently going over to her precious canine companion and doing her best to quell Lady's defensive actions.

And instead of greeting her brother properly, Myrcella sneers. "Why have you entered my chambers unannounced, Joffrey?"

"Can't I see my sister and my betrothed?" Came the arrogant response.

"Usually it's something else, brother." Said Myrcella. "And it would be in the throne room as of late."

"Your grace." Joffrey stresses out. "I have a higher position than you now sister and you should address me as such."

"You're not king yet, brother." Myrcella says in turn.

Her brother scoffs before speaking. "Now what were you two talking about?" He then turns to Sansa. "What information were you speaking of?"

The Stark girl swallows nervously. "The possible whereabouts of my sister."

Joffrey rolled his eyes a little before they landed on Jeyne, who squirmed. "I still wonder why she's here. She should be removed-"

"She is my friend and no traitor." Myrcella snaps. "Just like all those other people you had tortured in the throne room."

"They were traitors to the crown, spreading vile lies and didn't give the information I wanted."

"They were no traitors."

Joffrey sneered at her. "They most certainly were. The Northerners. The Dornish. Even most of the palace servants."

"A blind man could see they were not. A deaf man could even hear they had no information about what you truly wanted to hear. A fool would've been smarter to not ask such things before the throne of all things."

Joffrey's face was red, just how Myrcella wanted it to be. A Mad King, like Joffrey was trying to be, won't last long. But she wanted to know what made him more upset, not being addressed as 'your grace', 'your majesty' or being called blind, deaf, and a fool. But Joffrey's mouth twisted into a cruel smile.

"You best finish getting ready, my dear sister." Joffrey says with more venom than kindness before glancing at the two Northerner girls. "You as well, my sweet Sansa… and traitor. There are important things going on today."

The smile Joffrey bore raised the worry inside of the girls.

"Such as what, brother?" Myrcella cautiously asked.

"We are all going to the Great Sept of Baelor." Joffrey informs them. "My coronation day has been moved forward to today. I see no perfect time to start this new age upon the land. And following it will be your father's confession, my dear Sansa. Consider it my first official act I'll oversee once I'm properly ordained by the High Septon."

"And you will be merciful, right your grace? Just as you promised." Begged Sansa.

"Of course, my lady." He stands uncomfortably close to the Stark girl, who restrains from stepping back out of fear. "Your father won't be punished any more than he needs to be."

Joffrey then gave Sansa a kiss on her cheek and left the chambers with the Hound following right behind, but not before sending another glare toward Jeyne.

Once the two left the bedchambers, Myrcella turned to the two girls. "We best get you two dressed appropriately. You both may borrow one of my dresses if you like, but nothing too splendid. It may be offensive in Joffrey's eyes."

-Meanwhile, in Flea Bottom-

The scent of hot bread drifting from the shops along the Street of Flour was sweeter than any perfume Arya had smelled. It was also the best place to catch pigeons. They came for the crumbs, after all.

She took a deep breath and stepped closer to a pigeon. With Needle in hand, she thrust it forward like lightning, piercing the bird before it could take off.

Compared to catching cats, pigeons were easy.

Arya tied the pigeon to her belt on one side while sheathing Needle on the other before making her way down the street. A man was pushing a load of tarts on a two-wheeled cart; the smells sang of blueberries and lemons and apricots. Her stomach rumbled slightly as she licked her lips.

Approaching the man, Arya spoke. "Could I have one? A lemon… or any kind you have available?"

The pushcart man looked her up and down. Plainly he did not like what he saw. "Three coppers."

She untied the pigeon off her belt and held it up to the man. "I'll trade you a fat pigeon."

The tart seller spat. "The Others take your pigeon. And you keep your hands to yourself. The Gold Cloaks know how to deal with thieving gutter rats."

Disappointment filled her being as she walked off but carefully when she saw a pair of Gold Cloaks pass through the street. She stayed as inconspicuous as possible to not draw their attention.

'I should probably head back now. The others will no doubt be worried about me being gone long enough.'

With the current place she has been hiding since the Purge -as Cait Sith called it- she didn't want to try and essentially mooch off of the kind man who took her in for safety more than necessary. It wasn't much of a problem as the man had plenty of food to spare, but Arya was a stubborn girl and much of her father's lessons were dug deep into her head.

She would have collected the pigeons and given them to Nymeria, but the Stark girl didn't know if it may be enough to feed her precious direwolf.

In Flea Bottom, there were pot-shops where huge tubs of stew had been simmering for years and you could trade your bird for a "bowl of brown". Arya would have given anything for a cup of milk and a lemon cake, but the brown wasn't… entirely bad- as long as you don't think about the meat. Yet there had been some rumors and tales she heard back at the Red Keep about it, which wasn't pleasant at all. It didn't help when she tried serving Nymeria a bowl, which she refused and actually batted the bowl away, wasting it in the process.

With her being out on the streets, some precautions were in order. When being back out on the streets, Arya not only had to leave her precious direwolf back at the shop but she needed to cut her long hair short.

"It'll be better to be mistaken as a boy instead of a girl." Cait Sith rationalized with her when they first went into hiding. "Makes it harder for those going after you to spot you."

Thinking about it after a bit, the young she-wolf couldn't fault the talking cat for the bit of advice. She recalls the mistakes some people had made when she first came to the capital with them thinking she was a boy. Even her late dancing master called her boy several times to rile her up.

'Oh how I wish to hear him say that to me now.' She thought with sorrow. 'It would give me comfort with him being… not dead.'

Every day since the Purge, Arya had occasionally visited the seven city gates in turn. But the guards hardly let anyone out. Only traders, merchants and other officials who have permission from the Crown.

In the many times being out and about, Arya heard many murmurs and tales of what happened for the Purge of the Red Keep. There being a conspiracy against the Crown with her father and Lewyn Martell being behind it all. She couldn't believe such lies. Her father would never seek the crown. He just couldn't. After all, he had his chance decades ago when he got to King's Landing before Robert did.

Why would he want it now?

Arya shook her head, trying to quell her overthinking brain.

All she wanted was to return home with her father and Sansa. Living "simpler" times before they had to come South at King Robert's behest. Now she was stuck in the city with no possible way out.

Sometimes she thought about swimming the river or stowing away on a ship. The latter was amongst the first that came to mind after fleeing past the Red Keep's gates.

When she saw guardsmen in the gray and white of Winterfell at the port of the third pier the other day, it brought tears to her eyes. She couldn't read the name written on the hull of the one ship, but she had to know.

"Please," she said, "what ship is this?"

The longshoreman gave her a response. "She's the Wind Witch out of Myr."

She recalled the ship's name her father hired to take her and Sansa home, still waiting. She'd imagine it sailed long ago.

She would've told the sailors her name back then, hoping they could grant her entry and send her back North. However, one of Syrio's lessons whispered in her memory "look with your eyes".

When looking at the men in gray and white, Arya realized something was off. She knew her father's men. The three stationed on the ship were strangers.

"You!" Said one of the guards. "What do you want, boy?"

In response at the time, Arya held up a pigeon to the man. "Want to buy a pigeon?"

The man snorted and waved her off. "Get out of here."

Arya did as he told her. She didn't have to pretend to be frightened. For she realized she almost fallen for a trap if Syrio's lesson wasn't remembered.

It wasn't until shortly after leaving the port that day did Arya learned more about the "trap" in question. Lannister men dressed up as Stark ones in order to lower the guard of Stark and Martell men before putting them in chains for a reward of their "service". This only happened a few times from what she heard from some of the smallfolk, putting Arya more on edge.

Flea Bottom had a stench to it. A stink of pigsties and stables and tanner's sheds. Arya wound her way through the maze of streets dully. She lost the pigeon along the way. This would cost her some food for Nymeria when she returned back to the hiding place. If not, then she'd have to walk all the way back to the Street of Flour to get another fat one.

Before making it any further, a pair of arms wrapped around her and snagged her off of the street and into an alleyway.

Arya began to flail in the hold, screeching all the while. "Let me go! Let me-!"

"Arya, stop. It's me."

The she-wolf froze and slowly slacked when hearing the voice. She turns and sees Roxas -with his hood drawn up- was the one who nabbed her. Seeing him, a swell of emotions surged outward, having her hug him fiercely. He soon hugged her back.

"I'm so sorry, Arya." He told her. "I'm so sorry."

The young she-wolf sniffled as she gave a bitter smile. "You're here. That's… That's all I want now." Eventually breaking the embrace, Arya looks at him with a tear-stained face. "W-Where were you…?"

"I just got back today. I plan on getting your father and sister out with the others." He says, earning a hopeful look on her face. "I'm so glad you're… relatively fine."

She nods before grasping his hand. "C'mon, we need to go where the others are at."

"The others? And where?"

-In Tobho Mott's shop-

"You are lucky Roxas was able to recognize you, little pup." Tobho Mott tells her sternly. "If one of the keep's guards or the Gold Cloaks knew who you were-"

"I know, I'm sorry." Arya interjected, only to yelp at the flick her forehead got from the blacksmith.

"Sorry isn't good enough, child. I am risking my neck in keeping you safe for Gendry and your father's sakes." Tobho retorted irritably.

"Tobho." Gendry softly said, making the master Blacksmith regard his student before exhaling to calm down. He turned to Arya and jabbed his finger at her. "Nothing reckless or anything that'll bring attention to us, ya hear?"

"Yes, yes, I know already." Arya grumped with 'hmph'.

"Still, thanks for this, Tobho." Roxas spoke up. "It means a lot."

"It's only 'cause your customers." Mott said dismissively, seeing the look he got from his apprentice. "Yes, yes and friends too."

Gendry turned to Arya with a strained smile. "Hope you're alright, Arya."

"As well as I can be." The young Stark girl said with an air of gloom that dissipated as she gazed at Gendry. "I'm just glad I still have friends here."

"Oh, so I don't count?" Said an accented voice.

Those in the forge didn't have to look around for long as a bipedal cat leaped onto one of the tables, hands on his hips, wagging his finger at Arya.

"After all I've done for ya missy, that's the thanks I get?" The Cat said in faux dejectedness, yet his tone remained chipper and cheery.

"Cait!" Arya said with relief, going over to the anthropomorphic critter and pulling him into a hug.

"Aw shucks, little lady, it hasn't been that long since I saw ya." Cait Sith chuckled, not opposed to such a gesture.

"And who is this?" Tobho asked in annoyance. "Another freeloader?"

"Freeloader?" Cait balks. "I'll have you know I've done a mighty fine job keeping the wee lass safe."

"That may be fine and good, but you not doing any work around here counts as freeloading to me."

"Ya mean keepin' the less than desirable types of men off your backs don't count, does it?"

"Huh?"

"I've done more than just guide the lass to safety." Cait remarked. "Keepin' away those who would do her harm is equally as important."

"Who even are you?" Gendry abruptly asked.

Cait hopped back up to the table he announced himself on.

"I'm Cait Sith, fortune-teller extraordinaire!" The anthropomorphic cat holds out his hand. "Put it there!"

Arya looks at the crown-wearing cat quizzically. "Fortune-teller? This is the first I'm hearing this."

"I'm a cat of many talents, little lass, I figured in a place like this, it pays to have multiple trades to keep yerself afloat."

Roxas stepped forward, giving the cat a look of recognition.

"So you're Cait Sith." He commented.

Cait's eyes twitched upwards. "And how would you know of me, laddy? It sounds like you do."

Roxas gave the cat a small smirk. "Cloud and Nanaki send their regards."

That halted Cait's thoughts, making the energetic cat nearly topple over. "Wait, you know them? Where are they? Are they here?!"

No. XIII nodded at him. "In the Riverlands. Long story."

Cait seemed to shake in excitement before jumping up and down several times. "Bless my whiskers. Both are here."

"You know him, Roxas?" Arya spoke up, realizing he mentioned other names. "Wait, does Cloud know him too?"

"Only Cloud." Roxas clarified. "Personally, I mean. Don't know on the other. He and another friend have been on the lookout for him. Least when I see them next time, I can let them both know Cait is here." He soon recalls something. "Wait, Cait Sith, don't you have a Gummiphone?"

"I do, but I misplaced the darn thing when I first came to this city."

Roxas bristled at that. "How'd that happen?"

"Ya tend to get things lost in a place as crowded and chaotic as this." Cait defensively said. "I'm afraid someone might've come across it, sold or destroyed it. For all I know, it might be a mixture of both given how desperate they are for coin."

The Nobody had a flat look, sighing as he ran his hand through his hair.

"Well, that's just… fine, whatever happens, happens. Can't worry about it now."

"Oh, don't be so down, laddy." Cait encouraged. "To have such a negative attitude only calls for more misfortune."

"Really hard to be positive." Arya spoke up with a more pronounced frown.

"Ah, I know yer concerned for yer family, little lass." Cait Sith sympathetically said. "But have faith in yerself and yer friends. With the hero of the North here, I'd say yer fortunes are going to turn sooner than you think."

"Fortune," Gendry parroted in intrigue. "And you're a fortune-teller, huh?"

Cait did a dramatic twirl and bow. "That's right, young smith."

"Mind giving us a fortune?" He asked in a hopeful tone.

"Gendry." Arya flatly said.

"What? I'm kinda curious." The young Baratheon Bastard said in defense. "I mean, you aren't?"

Arya puffed her cheeks out and turned away, yet the silent go-ahead was given.

"Well, so glad someone finally decided to ask." Cait jumped off the table, throwing his hands down and from them, a puff of smoke came.

Rather than landing on the ground, Cait Sith landed upon a furry head. It was a large creature that held a lot of similar features as a Moogle, without the red ball antenna, big nose and usual cuteness. It did have relatively beady black eyes with a pair of tusks coming out from the bottom lip. And if one were to look at its back, not only did one see a pair of leathery wings, but also a large zipper from the neck area to around the waist area.

"What in the Seven Hells is this?!" Tobho Mott yelled out in fright.

"Moogle Mog." Cait Sith said with a pose.

"Moogle Mog?" The group repeated, the image of Moogles popping into their minds.

"Any relation to the Moogles?" Gendry inquired.

Cait Sith gives them a kittish smile. "Yes and no."

"That doesn't answer a thing." Roxas stated.

The Cat's lip upturned in a mischievous manner. "A good magician never reveals all his secrets."

Cait Sith did a little dancing jig on top of Moogle Mog's head. At the end of the little number, Moogle Mog's eyes glowed for several moments before something unusual occurred.

"...A piece of parchment came out of its mouth." Came Arya's bland response, expecting more than just that.

"Your fortune, to be precise." Cait happily said, gesturing for her to take it.

"...I have so many questions." The Young Stark girl said, snatching parchment out of the Mog's mouth.

"You and me both." Gendry murmured in bewilderment, slightly regretting this request now.

"Things are looking up, so throw caution to the wind." Arya read aloud. "Put your trust in others, and a last-minute twist… may pleasantly surprise you"?"

"How is that a fortune?" Gendy couldn't help but ask.

The Cat gave her an impish smile and wagged his finger at her. "It's usually how one looks at it."

"That's just a fancy way of covering up for nonsense." Tobho retorted.

The anthropomorphic cat flinched, ears flicking up as he jumped into a spin, pointing at the blacksmith.

"Give me another chance. I'll get it this time! Come on!" He pleaded but didn't wait for a response.

Cait Sith soon snaps his fingers, having Moogle Mog make another fortune appear from its mouth.

Gendry took it this time and read it aloud. "Watch your belongings and those you hold dear. Lucky color: black"?"

There was a beat of unimpressed silence.

"Okay, we're done." Roxas said, the words acting like arrows piercing the Cat's profession.

"Now hold on. Third times the charm!" Cait Sith leans down and smacks his hand on Moogle Mog's head. "Come on, you stupid thing!"

Another fortune was soon deposited from Moogle Mog's mouth, having Roxas pry it out this time. He read it, having him look off-putted.

"Anythin' the matter?" Tobho asks, seeing Roxas' reaction. Not getting a response, the blacksmith took the fortune from the Nobody's hand and read it aloud. "Seek and you are sure to find. But alas, you shall forever lose… what another cherishes the most"?"

"The stars work in mysterious ways!" Cait speaks out with a smile.

The reaction he got from the others didn't meet his mood.

"Sounds like a dud."

The talking cat lets out a mock pained yelp. "Oh how you wound me, Arya."

The Nobody was silent whereas Gendry and Arya spoke more with Cait Sith.

"You alright there, Roxas?"

"Yeah, Tobho, it's just… "What another cherishes the most"..."

He recalls the words spoken to him before about prophecies. How he needs to be careful about them and try to not be obsessed with what was given. Yet it's hard to keep his mind away from such things, given the existence he has and has gone through.

The blacksmith hummed. "I wouldn't press such thoughts onto it. It's best to focus them on other matters." He pats him on the shoulder and ushers the Keybearer to follow.

No. XIII gives the man a quizzical look, getting a silent stare of him just asking he speak with him in private.

As Cait Sith was entertaining Arya and Gendry, Tobho took Roxas to another spot of his establishment.

With it being just them, the blacksmith from Qarth spoke. "It is indeed good to see you again, my boy. Arya has been a worried sot once seeking shelter here."

"I can imagine." Roxas sighs before looking back to where the main workstations were at. "Where are the Moogles? I didn't see them."

Tobho shook his head, a weary and tired face. "Gone. Most fled back to wherever they came from. Stating they didn't feel safe with what's happening in the city at this time."

"I wouldn't blame them. But you said "most"."

"Aye, I did. Only Moo and a few others stayed behind. They're supposed to be back any moment now from whatever they're doing." Tobho looks at the Keybearer. "Did you need something from 'em?"

"A few things really. Was hoping to get it taken care of as soon as possible."

"Your rescue attempt, I wager." Tobho states.

"Yeah, and I could use you and the Moogles' help here. I'm willing to pay, Tobho."

The elder man waved off the statement. "I know you can, Roxas. But gold, silver and synthesis materials aren't what I desire at this time." The blacksmith looked at the Nobody in the eyes. "I need you to do something for me."

Roxas frowned slightly, wondering what it was that he desired. "What is it?"

Tobho placed his hands on his shoulders, an extra emphasis on what he was about to request. "Take Gendry with you out of the city."

The blond blinked. "...What? Why?"

Tobho peaked over his shoulder, making sure his apprentice was still distracted before facing Roxas again.

"This may come as a shock to you, Roxas but Gendry is the son of Robert Baratheon."

No. XIII's eyes widened, opened his mouth yet a moment later he turned away and frowned.

"Huh…" He remarked, an intense look of thought on his face. "So he is Robert's son."

Mott blinked. "You knew?"

"No, it's just… weird to describe." Roxas said. "There was always something familiar with Gendry and… I dunno, maybe it was his eyes. Robert's eyes were always an intense blue."

"Yours are as well." Tobho pointed out.

"Not like Gendry's. And not like Robert's."

On occasional visits to the shop, Roxas had a few flashes in his vision of Gendry replaced with someone else both familiar yet alien. It was confusing for a time until his meeting with Ventus where he saw his memories in the Deep Dive.

"Still, sorry, for getting sidetracked. What do you want me to do?"

"I'm concerned about his life." Seeing the look on Roxas' face, Mott explains. "I know the dire significance of his parentage of him being one of Robert's many bastards. I've known for years from his mother wishing me to keep him safe before her death. I've honored it and will continue to do so. Yet present circumstances will need me to force my hand. Given the rumors running amok, Joffrey will seek to kill off anyone who'll be a threat to his claim to the throne. Your betrothed is one thing, but the bastards are no doubt another."

It took a moment for Roxas to realize what Tobho was implying, especially after recalling another particular detail with why all of this was happening. "Myrcella is the rightful heir to the throne of her being Robert's legitimate child. His bastards are not only proof of their lineage but also have claims to the line of succession."

"If more nobles realize this, the bastards will be more valuable than before." Tobho exhales a sigh. "It doesn't help what tales I've heard of Joffrey over the years. The false king is unstable. He might as well seek out every threat to the throne and kill them out of spite."

If this would indeed come to pass, Roxas would need to spread the word to have many of Robert's bastards kept safe or at least taken out of the city. That may prove difficult with the people working with him at the present time, but the lesser Nobodies were another matter entirely.

However, that poses a problem as he doesn't know how many there are in the capital. Though he may have an irking suspicion as to who Robert's children are.

"Are you sure you want me to have Gendry be with us?"

"If things go to shit for what you plan on doing with Arya's family, Gendry must leave."

Roxas rubbed the back of his head with uncertainty. "But Gendry has lived here his whole life. I wouldn't wanna pull him away so suddenly like this."

Mott shook his head.

"I know that. I'm putting my duty and pride aside from seeing him as an asset to my shop as I think of him as a son." Roxas could see the desperation in the blacksmith's eyes. In another moment, he brought out his hand. "Swear to me you'll do all you can to keep him safe. Swear it on the Black Goat."

Well, when he asks like that, the Nobody found himself hard-pressed to deny his request. Without hesitation, Roxas grasped the rough hand and gave a firm shake. "I swear it, Tobho. I give you my word." As he shook Tobho's hand, he felt an odd sensation wash through him, making him wonder if something else was at play here.

"Then be safe, boy. I feel it… dark days are coming and they'll grow ever darker." The Blacksmith said, tone grim and foreboding.

Roxas sighed, shaking his head. "Yeah, you're not wrong there."

Time passes in Kings Landing with much activity going on. The hustle and bustle still going on, even with the major happenings behind the scenes.

-Later, Street of Silk-

Amongst the many citizens of the capital, a plethora of individuals were working on a task given to them by Roxas. Both original and new additions. Even the original plan of storming the Red Keep having been postponed for the time being.

Exiting Madam M's parlor, the Keybearer had Anguy by his side. At the entrance was Bella, who was hugging Madam M and saying her farewell.

"We'll take care of her, milady." Anguy says.

"I sure hope so." Says Madam M, once breaking her embrace with her one worker. "Hopefully she can return once everything is settled."

"Hopefully soon."

The woman nods to the archer before focusing at the Keybearer. "And I do hope to see you again in better circumstances."

"Of course."

"And bring Tyene with you." She says with a teasing grin, which she hid behind her fan. "I'm sure she wants more lessons."

No. XIII turned away to hide his red face, hearing the Madam giggle while she walked away. "...I'll be sure to inform her."

The boy felt a sense of guilt, nursing a hand that was buzzing after… Madam M is far too insistent for her own good.

He originally intended to get Bella out of the city or at least to a safer location. Yet he ended up "convinced" to stay a little longer by the parlor's owner.

He's getting ready to help save Ned, Sansa and Myrcella along with whoever else Joffrey has been tormenting. The last thing he needs is another body massage, -let alone a hand massage- no matter how good it feels. It was nice that it was free and-

Roxas shook his head. He can't get distracted. There were several other stops he needed to make.

Parting ways from Anguy and Bella, he made his way down an alleyway and just as he was about to exit it…

"Quite the reunion we have here."

Roxas whirled around, hand aimed forward with electric sparks dancing across his gloved hand. The intensity of them brightened up the space to reveal the Spider's face from underneath his drawn-up hood.

"Varys." The Nobody brought down his hand. "Do not sneak up on me like that."

The Eunuch gave the boy a simpering smile. "I make no promises. Habits die hard, as they say."

The blue-eyed teen sighed, the sparks subsiding. "How'd you find me?"

Varys looked a tad insulted. "My Boy, I am the Master of Whispers. To know things is my trade and profession. Though you are quite the challenge. Took a while to track you down once I heard whispers of your presence. And I wanted to see you personally."

"Well, here I am. What do you want?"

"What makes you think I want anything from you?" Varys expectantly asked.

The blank stare he received made the eunuch's facade break.

"Yes, yes, forgive the jest." He said, giving the blond a pointed look. "My birds have told me you've been rather busy."

"Busy is an understatement." Roxas grimaced. "But before that, tell me, is everyone alright? I heard… a few people died."

"Far more than a few, my boy." Varys tittered with a shake of his head. "Many of Lord Stark's loyal men have perished as did a great deal of the contingent that came with the Martells. Worst of all was the death of Ser Lewyn. The poor man. His death will undoubtedly spark only further fury from the Martells. His son is no doubt devastated."

"What about Ned? And Sansa? Myrcella?"

"The princess is well enough and she has made great strides in keeping Sansa safe. But Ned has been confined to the Black Cells."

Roxas gave the man a piercing gaze. "Can't you do anything about that? Get him out of the city?"

"Perhaps but I am no fool and I unfortunately am not as selfless as most." Varys admitted. "The more intelligent observers would link his escape back to me and I would no doubt be branded a traitor and hunted. And unlike you, Prince Roxas," The bald eunuch couldn't help but find amusement in the way the teen reacted to the title. "I am no warrior. I must have my own self-preservation and help the realm as I am. Even then, I doubt I fare well against the Heartless and Unversed lurking in the shadows."

Pinching the bridge of his nose, Roxas had to accept Varys' excuses. Couldn't fault him, really.

Releasing a withering sigh, the teen turned his gaze back onto the Master of Whispers. "Ok, so how can you help me?"

"Information is always a key to any plan, Roxas. I find it rather surprising you were able to smuggle your people into the city in a day instead of a fortnight. Another use of magic at your disposal, no doubt."

Roxas heard the way Varys uttered the word magic but brushed it aside.

"More or less." He says vaguely before changing the subject. "I know the relative news of the state of this city, just not the grittier details."

"I wager you heard after your fight at Harrenhal at the Lannister camp. Though some sources say it was from some… otherworldly factor."

Seeing Varys more or less knows at this point, courtesy of his "Little Birds", Roxas gives a response. "Little bit of column A, little of column B."

Varys made a face in processing those words. "Interesting phrase, but appropriate." His eyes gaze at the boy, more specifically towards his feet. "I've been hearing quite a bit of wild stories and rumors. Would've expected to see your little chocobo by your side. Or even your latest, largest addition."

Roxas narrows his eyes a little on the implication. "He was unexpected."

"And where would he be?"

Unzipping part of his coat, Roxas pulls it apart to see little Bahamut clutching onto his chest. With the sudden addition of light entering the coat, the dragon let out a small screech.

"Little guy wouldn't leave my side. No matter how hard I tried. Literally."

With the unusual things he's seen in his life, more so with what he witnessed since the Tourney at Harrenhal, seeing a living dragon was at the top of Vary's list.

'As I live and breathe.' He thought with both amazement and worry in his eyes. "His presence complicates things."

"Don't remind me." Roxas covers up his coat and zips it back up before patting his chest to comfort the slightly squirming dragon. "I can already imagine the ramifications."

"And word will eventually spread from the Riverlands in a matter of days of what occurred."

"Probably already has."

"Quite," Varys mused. "A boy with a dragon, one that no less saved Westeros from a literal cataclysm. They'll flock to your side in droves. Proclaiming you as the next king of Westeros."

"Somewhat like what Daemon II Blackfyre intended with Whitewall."

"Certainly, if not more. Stopping a meteor? Who can possibly hope to emulate such a feat?"

"Not my problem right now." Roxas said, turning his gaze to the Red Keep. "What else is happening? What about the Heartless? The Unversed? Have they been causing any problems?"

"First, I would like to hear what you know." Varys remarked. "I believe context and filling in the blanks will help in your endeavors."

"Why?"

"Information, my friend. I need to hear perspective, after all."

'Why did everything have to go through so much baggage?' The Nobody internally grumbled. "Ser Barristan was dismissed." He says, having known the details beforehand.

"Not just that, but gone. I've been working hard to track him down, however, his years of experience of knowing this city and more have given him a means to disappear. I'm certain he's still in the capital, although why I can't be certain."

"Probably planning a way to help, one way or another." Roxas surmised, earning a brief nod from the Spider. "What of Ned and Sansa?"

"Sansa is still planned to wed Joffrey, a means of keeping her a political hostage between the Riverlands and the North. The wedding day, however, is up for debate. Perhaps it'll occur once matters somewhat settle or very soon to restrain the movements and actions of Robb Stark."

A frown mars Roxas' features. "I see."

"Though if it does bring you comfort, Myrcella is doing her best to keep her safe. Not just out of friendship, but love from what I surmise."

"That's comforting." He ran his hand through his hair and sighed with what he said next. "And Renly left."

"Prior to the downfall, yes."

Roxas grunted, shaking his head. "I heard he left for selfish reasons."

"Self-preservation and ambition go hand in hand." Varys tittered, getting a flat look from Roxas. "I know this may not be what you want to hear but Lord Stark will be having his sentencing later today after Joffrey's coronation at the Sept of Baelor for the charge of treason and conspiracy." Roxas turned to Varys with a dangerous glint in his eyes. "It is certain his fate would be banishment to the Wall, a safe choice to avoid conflict with the North and Riverlands."

"...I couldn't help but notice you say "would" instead of "will"."

Varys smiles bitterly. "Given Joffrey's paranoia and sense of power, I believe otherwise. His madness is far too similar to the last King of the Targaryen lineage."

Roxas frowned at that, feeling an unusual sense of deja vu at the mention of the Mad King.

"And the Heartless… is it true he-"

"A frightful sight." Varys confirmed, giving off a genuine shudder. "Joffrey using the Heartless… one could say it's hard to imagine, but witnessing it is another."

"Great." Roxas gritted out. "Now that idiot has the Heartless on his side."

"On his side?" Varys inquisitively parroted. "Does he not control them?"

Roxas shook his head. "One can control the Heartless… well it's not really control. One would think they do as they have a dark heart. The person can command them with a stronger darkness within them."

Varys pales a bit. "So it can happen? Dreadful. Absolutely dreadful."

"Yet it's mostly a lie of what others come to believe." Roxas elaborates once seeing the confusion on the Spider's face. "It lowers their sense of security as the Heartless feeds more over time, depending on how much darkness is within the person's heart. But once it's weakened enough, the Heartless would turn on them, strike and convert them into one of their own."

"Oh my." The Eunuch muttered, a slightly disturbed expression now on display.

"Not being in the know poses a great risk to the person." Roxas crossed his arms, wracking his mind as he contemplated on this information.

Joffrey having control over the Heartless was troubling and dangerous. The crazy brat would only use them to indulge in his psychotic tendencies and cruel treatment of other people.

However, there were several matters that concerned him.

Joffrey was a weak-willed, little shit. He whimpers and cries whenever something doesn't go his way regardless of the circumstance if he doesn't resort to screeching and shrieking.

"But at this great scale of what happened, and Joffrey hasn't turned into a Heartless already, this isn't right."

"How so?"

"If what happened in the throne room was of indication, Joffrey should've fallen to the Heartless shortly after summoning them all. Yet he didn't." Blue eyes narrowed. "He's got a patron."

"A patron?"

"There's a reason why Cloud and I haven't really told anyone of this. Mostly concerned with the bigger secrets." Roxas looks at the Spider. "It's possible one can be "gifted" or "loaned" control of the Heartless from someone very strong in the darkness. It's how certain Organization members and a witch and her lacky I know did it in the past with certain unfortunates."

Varys' eyes widened in surprise and fear at this revelation.

"You've seen this before?"

"Many times." Roxas said, calling upon his memories from Sora. "It never ends well. My best guess is with the Organization present, Joffrey must've met one of them and struck a bargain. And since Joffrey is quick to act without thinking, he signed up without knowing the consequences."

"And how long will it be before his fall?"

Roxas shrugged. "Depends. He "burns" himself out too quickly or his patron calls in the deal. On the latter, either pulling away the control or overloading him on the spot for the fun of it."

The spymaster drums his fingers against his arms, digesting this new batch of information.

"Troubling. Very troubling." Varys soon shifts to the next bit of questions on his mind. "Tell me, is Tyrion with you as well? Or Strife for that matter? I would have thought he -at least- would be here with you."

"Both are still at the Crossroads, unfortunately. Tyrion was insistent in settling a few things with Jamie while Cloud needs to stick with him to finish his one job. But they'll be coming to the capital as we speak. And just a heads-up, Tywin made Tyrion acting Lord Hand for the unforeseeable future. Tywin doesn't know how long he'll be out with his army dealing with… everything."

"Truly?" Seeing Roxas nod, the surprise on the Spider's face was also marred with curiosity. "Would make sense. Tywin is at Casterly Rock with his other grandson. Amassing his forces and preparing for what's to come, which takes much time and attention. Having his son acting in his stead is surprising."

Before any more of their conversation can continue…

*BONG* *BONG* *BONG*

The loud gonging of the bells from the Great Sept of Baelor could be heard throughout the city.

"What's going on?"

Varys, instead, held a look of recognition and trepidation. "Ah, it seems it's finally happening."

Roxas looked curiously. "What is?"

"Joffrey's coronation. After which is Eddard Stark's trial."

"Oh great." Roxas growled, quickly realizing plans will be changed even further. "Guess I gotta do things on the fly."

"I shall leave you to it." Varys said, bowing and turning to leave.

"And just where are you going?"

"Why, to the coronation." The Master of Whispers said in the most obvious tone. "I must be present, unfortunately. Same with many others of great importance. Appearances to keep up and all."

With that said, Varys hurriedly walked away, making Roxas frown as he turned back to the Red Keep.

"Always left with the mess." The blond said under his breath before recalling Varys' words. "But seems an opportunity presents itself."

As this went on, everyone was moving in the same direction, all in a hurry to see what the ringing was about.

The bells ringing from the Great Sept of Baelor announced a grand event. Whether it being a royal wedding, death of a royal or a coronation. No one rang the bells for the commoners, except for something truly needed for them all to hear pertaining to their faith. Regardless, they were all being summoned.

By the time many reached the Street of the Sisters, the small folk were packed shoulder to shoulder. Leading up to the top of Visenya's Hill, the white marble plaza was a solid mass of people, all yammering at each other and straining to get closer.

*BONG* *BONG* *BONG*

The tolling of the bells were heard throughout the capital once more, signaling the end of the coronation.

It wasn't long once before the front doors of the Great Sept of Baelor were opened. The first figure to step out was Joffrey, freshly anointed by the High Septon into becoming the King of Westeros.

The smug, condescending boy held such an air of superiority that dashing such a face would be met with praise and adulation.

His pompous attitude was matched only by his derisive sneer that he directed at all who weren't him. It even increased when he received the cheer and applause from the vast commoners present for the event.

Eventually, the bell ceased its toll yet the cheers still went on.

As this occurred, more were present in the open for the small folk to see as they stood on the dais. The members of the Small Council, the Kingsguard, the King's Justice, the High Septon and many others of great importance. Each made their way to the rough stoned stage with differing levels to it, a place where public decrees and events were hosted within the vicinity.

Amongst them was the King's mother, Cersei Lannister. Her seeing her son bask in his own glory.

The former queen of Westeros should've been happy. Her feeling proud of her boy on this triumphant occasion. Yet this feeling was replaced with disappointment.

It wasn't what she truly desired. Cersei sought something more; something else on this day.

For years since she became queen, the only daughter of Tywin Lannister dreamt of sitting on the Iron Throne, high above them all. Great lords and proud ladies knelt before her and only her.

Cersei wanted to rule. She lusted for power with every waking breath for so many years. To her, knowledge wasn't power. Power was power and she craved it. She didn't want to influence things from the shadows, like many throughout history. She wanted people to know she was in charge. One can thank her father's influence on that.

Tywin Lannister was obsessed with the family legacy, by restoring the pride and power of their House after it was stained by Cersei's grandfather. He demonstrated the power and wealth of Casterly Rock for all the realm to see several times over.

She learned so much from Tywin since she was at his knee and Cersei wanted to emulate him, somehow and someway. Even taking his lessons to heart, such as instilling fear in an enemy, seeing people as tools, and killing them if they posed a threat. She did much for his approval, seeing herself as her father's heir and not Jamie and certainly not Tyrion. Learning everything there is to know of being the Warden of the Westerlands, like trying to be present or overhearing many of her father's meetings. Attending her lessons and doing all she can to excel in them and then some.

When her father speaks, men obey. But when she speaks, people often contradict her or push her aside. This was all due to her being a woman instead of a man. Such a thing deeply frustrated her to no end.

In her younger years, she and Jamie looked so alike, people sometimes had a hard time telling who was who. It made it easier sometimes for them to switch places so she could learn how to use a sword and lance while Jamie worked more on how to sow with a needle. Yet this came to an end when their bodies developed more, forcing them to stay in their original lessons.

It made her wish she was born a man, making it far easier to rule. Or even at times wishing the Dornish customs were integrated into the rest of Westeros. After all, she is Tywin's firstborn child and through the Dornish ways, she would've had the right to succeed her father. Instead, she can only be envious of the Dornish and other women out there who rule their Houses instead of their husbands or sons, like Lady Olenna for one example.

Cersei saw herself as the inheritor of the Westerlands and sought to rule it instead of being bartered off to some lord like a horse and thus becoming a lady of some lower station. To her, it would've been an insult.

An opportunity of a lifetime arrived when she was eventually brought to the court of King's Landing where she properly met Prince Rhaegar Targaryen.

Her father promised her that she would marry the crown prince, having her become the future queen of Westeros by uniting the two great Houses of Lannister and Targaryen. There was even a claim to back it up that her late mother -Joanna- arranged it with Queen Rhaella who she had close ties with.

As a result, she became happy, giddy and excited about the prospect. Thus she worked hard to please the Silver Prince on the courtship so a proper betrothal would be made to officiate things. After all, Rhaegar was handsome and sensitive and strong and beloved by many throughout the realm.

Days before the intended promise day of the betrothal announcement, Cersei was back in the Westerlands with Melara (an apparent "friend" and daughter of a noble in her father's court) went into the tent of Maggy the Frog within the forest near Casterly Rock.

Maggy was a witch, a fortune teller supposedly from Essos. She was apparently popular with the small folk and ended up garnering Cersei's attention. She paid the price of offering a drop of her blood and received answers for her three questions.

She asked if she'd marry the prince, implying Rhaegar. Instead, Maggy said she'll never marry the prince, but a king. It made Cersei think Aerys would die, thus making her believe Rhaegar would become king when their wedding day occurred. She then asked if she'd be a queen. In turn, Maggy answered she'd indeed be a queen, but one day another, younger and more beautiful one will replace her. Putting such confusion aside, Cersei asked if she and the king would have children, to which Maggy responded that he'll have many while she'll only have three in which gold shall be their crowns and gold their shrouds.

Such a response outright confused Cersei in the end as such a thing was impossible.

Unsatisfied with her answers, Cersei intended to leave but Maggy ended up giving her another fortune. One that ended up rattling her core that the valonqar shall wrap their hands around her throat and choke the life out of her.

The valonqar, the younger sibling translated in the basic tongue. This haunted her for a long time, making her believe Tyrion would have a hand in killing her.

Once Cersei received her fortunes, her "friend" Melara got her own. Yet such questions and responses displeased Cersei, especially one when Melara asked if she'd marry Jamie.

Her friend Melara became her first kill, pushing her down a well in order to keep the secret fortunes to herself. Even having her father's men burn down Maggy's tent and kill the witch for good measure.

From there, Cersei didn't think much of the apparent fortunes she was given. She had something to look forward to very soon when going back to King's Landing.

However on the day the promised day of a betrothal being announced, that mad bastard Aerys changed his mind and denied the arrangement. The memory of the rejection still rankled her even after all these years.

Her aunt Genna consoled her from her woes, doing all she could to lift her spirits. Even promising her that her father will find a better match for her one day. Such a thing was impossible as there was no one better than the Prince of Dragonstone.

She wallowed in resentment and misery of being cheated out of what was rightfully hers.

That all changed when Ventus came into her life.

The boy she met in Harrenhal was unusual. He was wholesome and kind to her. Didn't really care about her position, only as herself. Lessons eventually surfaced, having her seek using him as a tool, just like how her father would've done.

But Ventus either didn't care or didn't mind. His kindness always broke through any ulterior intentions she once had, his smile brightening up her day. All that she planned fell to ruin as she found herself genuinely falling in love with the stranger.

Things became unusual when Ventus made his grand debut to the known world when Vanitas arrived, forcing the blue-eyed blonde she began caring for to reveal to have legitimate magic and slaying the malicious creatures called the Unversed like the fantastical tales of knights slaying ogres and other supernatural threats. Her desire for him grew then and there.

Yes there was some hiccups here and there of his attention being pulled by both Lyanna Stark and Elia Martell, but she'd done her fair share of work in being with the Keybearer. Even when Ventus crowned Rhaegar's wife the Queen of Love and Beauty once unseating him at the joust, Cersei still loved him.

The Tourney of Harrenhal came and went, and so too did Ventus. Her believing things would be a whirlwind romance between them. But she kept the fond memories in her heart.

Then came the Rebellion and soon came Ventus' return.

His legend grew once more and in that time, he actually took time out of the war to stop by to see her.

Her in the midst of a war that spanned the entire continent.

There was an excuse at the time when Ventus had to personally deliver some letters to her father upon Jon Arryn's request, due to him being neutral throughout the Rebellion until it's end.

But to her, that didn't matter in the slightest. During his visits, Ventus said he wanted to check up on her, making sure she was alive and well and in that, that whirlwind romance made her love for the boy skyrocket.

She had her moments with him, holding him close and spending as much time as she was able to. The She-lion loved how flustered he got around her advances, making her fidget and strain her control as he was just a green boy, unfamiliar to the touch and wiles of women. Oh she had dearly wanted to bed him at those times, but the kisses would suffice.

She had her sneaking suspicions of Lyanna Stark and Elia Martell having tried their own hand at Ventus which is why she made sure that after Ven's visits, she would be the only woman on his mind.

Then came the one day when she learned of Jon Arryn's arrangement with her father to have Ventus wed her.

Cersei felt so many of her dreams were coming true. Ventus would marry into House Lannister, given he had no House of his own or even a last name. He'd be honor-bound to take her's instead, thus all but forcing Tywin to name his daughter heir to Casterly Rock instead of Tyrion. Eventually, they'd have so many blue and green-eyed, golden-haired children with magic flowing through their veins along with Keyblades as an added bonus. And there were even talks of the idea of having Ventus taking the Iron Throne instead of Robert, making Cersei all the more excited of not only becoming heir to House Lannister but Queen of the Seven Kingdoms.

A man as noble, gallant and heroic as he as king? Would make any woman worth their salt swoon. Any woman period.

And he was to be hers.

Sadly, her great dream ended and she woke up from it once learning of the aftermath of the Sack of King's Landing.

Gregor Clegane killed Elia Martell and her children with Robert Baratheon laughing at their corpses. Both of these acts caused Ventus to leave and never return, thus ruining Cersei's betrothal to the Keybearer. It became worse when she was soon betrothed to Robert and things flip-flopped into a downward spiral over the years.

As a result, she sought comfort with Jamie as they began their affair and she gave birth to his three children.

Correction… she gave birth to Jamie's two sons whereas she actually gave birth to Robert's daughter.

Cersei thought Myrcella was her daughter with Jamie, given how much she looked so much like her when Cersei was younger. That changed as the years went on by when Cersei noticed Myrcella's eyes were changing from Lannister emerald-green with flecks of gold in them to becoming more blue-green. It was there she knew her daughter was the only child she bore for Robert.

The dowager queen still loved her daughter all the same as she was her precious daughter. She didn't see Myrcella as a tool at all; for she believed she was far more than that. And in a way, her daughter was in fact her favorite child.

However, through this revelation, Cersei thought back to Maggy's prophecies.

She never married Rhaegar or even Ventus, only Robert once he became king. The one prophecy stated Robert would have many children while she'll only have three. However, this prophecy turned out wrong as they actually shared a true born daughter.

So would the valonqar prophecy never come to pass, given the ones about the children was wrong? If so, then the encounter with Maggy the Frog would never have to haunt her ever again.

Such things perhaps became solidified once Roxas came into the picture and greatly changed things like his father before him. And the betrothal between Myrcella and Roxas occurred and then Robert's decision to make their daughter queen happened. Thus Maggy's other prophecy of another queen replacing her wouldn't be so bad if it was her precious Myrcella.

And despite it… she would be lying if she couldn't deny how much she was drawn to Roxas.

He was, after all, a spitting image of his father and perhaps a far greater warrior than he ever was.

Shown to be more intelligent, insightful, observant and a fierce combatant, Cersei thought there could be no better man for her precious Myrcella.

And his heroism will already be remembered until the rest of time on this world.

She, like so many others, has gotten word of the spectacle that took place in Harrenhal of all places, where Roxas apparently stopped a falling star from impacting and perhaps destroying Westeros, thus creating a second moon. One which can be faintly seen in the sky at this very moment.

Just seeing that was indescribable.

Such a thing would clearly make a great legacy for her House, for her lineage just like her father all so desired.

Yet Joffrey ended up fucking and ruining things in more ways than one as of late.

Calling off the betrothal, imprisoning surviving "traitors" to the realm and commanding Heartless and Unversed to boot!

Of all the worst possible news, the fact that her own son wields the means to command the very creatures that currently threaten all of Westeros along with the beasts that once frightened the continent decades ago.

No one would truly support his claim to the Iron Throne now. People would say her family line is cursed, making it impossible to recover unlike how Tywin dealt with the Tarbecks and Reynes.

Eventually, Cersei came out of her thoughts when seeing Joffrey's shift of mood. His pleasant arrogance flipped to something he emulated from his mother from time to time. Looking at her son's line of sight, Cersei frowned in realizing what brought about his ire.

His sister and her retinue that she so adamantly protected.

Jeyne wore one of Myrcella's older dresses, being dark gray with some gold detailing. It helped make her not stand out all that much, which was fine with her.

Sansa wore a deep blue dress that matched her eyes. It was of flowing silk and slightly tight around her chest which had been growing as of late. It had long sleeves and a long skirt with lighter blues to accent it.

As for Myrcella, she wore a dark green dress with gold accents and embroidery. Her tiara rested comfortably on her hair with her jewelry complimenting her blue-green eyes.

The trio stayed relatively close to each other. Hard to keep them apart aside from physical force and possible threats.

A fear welled up inside of Cersei. Of her precious lioness of a daughter being harmed by her son. Joffrey sees his own sister as an obstacle, due to the proclamation that Myrcella is supposed to be the one to sit the Iron Throne instead of him.

She fears Joffrey may seek to get rid of her, somehow.

Their own Dance of Dragons, one could say.

Maybe this one would be short but that was Cersei just trying to convince herself.

War was an ugly thing with many twists and turns and death that always followed in its wake.

It may soon become too much for Cersei as she might consider her own son as an enemy. Thus, she would have to play with the idea of killing him as he'd be a threat to not just her but to her precious lioness as well; no matter whatever whispers in her head tell her otherwise.

It wasn't long before Joffrey sent out a command to some of the City Watch for what he intended to do next.

From the Sept of Baelor's main doors, Lord Eddard Stark was pushed by two Gold Cloaks to the pulpit of the High Septon. Once presented further, he began to speak, but too quietly which didn't satisfy the men escorting him. One of the Gold Cloaks gave him a rough prod that nearly knocked him into the smallfolk crowd below.

The Lord of the North felt the Wolf within him stir yet it was quelled the moment his eyes landed on Sansa. She held a stoic visage yet her eyes screamed and wailed at seeing her father in such a state.

"Promise me, Ned. Promise me."

He felt those words ringing in his head, his heart heavy and wrought with grief.

Robert asked him to back Myrcella and Roxas, believing this to be the right course of action. But now, his daughter's life was on the line. Honor demands one thing but love?

He damned his honor once for the sake of those he loved before. Doing so once again wouldn't be any different.

Clearing his throat, Ned spoke with shaky words. "I am Eddard Stark, Lord of Winterfell and Hand of the King. I come before you to confess my treason in the sight of gods and men."

The crowd started to yell at that with jeers and taunts were shouted and the throwing of objects had started. Myrcella saw a boy on the statue nearby shouting at the crowd and put his hand on a blade. A curious thought crossed her mind as she was inspecting this person.

The yelling soon ceased as the bound Northerner continued. "I betrayed the trust of my king and friend. I plotted to depose his son and place his daughter on the Iron Throne and use her for my own ends. Let the High Septon, the old and the new gods and bear witness to my words: King Jo-Joffrey of the House Baratheon is… is the tr-he… king of the Iron Throne, and by the trust and grace of the gods above, the Lord of the Seven Kingdoms and Protector of the Realm."

The crowd began to scream. Taunts and obscenities filled the air. Amongst them were the rabble of Ned Stark proclaiming a lie, knowing he was a good man. Some who believed such lies flew through the air and hit the Northerner in the face. A cow pie nearly did the same a moment later. Then some rocks flew and hit Lord Stark's side and chest.

As this went on, Myrcella saw the boy start to unsheathe his blade from the statue.

'Wait… that's no boy.' Blue-green eyes widened in recognition. 'Oh gods, that's Arya!' Myrcella turned to Sansa, trying to speak with her but no words could flow out.

Once the rocks and other objects stopped being thrown, the High Septon moved forward. "As we sin, so do we suffer. This man has confessed his sins in the sight of gods and men at this holy place!" Bellowed the High Septon. "The gods are just, but they are also merciful." He then turns to King Joffrey. "What shall be done with the traitor, your grace?"

Joffrey steps forward, looking smug and arrogant. Raising a hand, he waited for the crowd to be quiet in order to speak loud and clear. "My mother bids me let Lord Eddard take the Black. My betrothed, Lady Sansa, and my sister have begged for mercy for him. But they have the soft hearts of women." The smile on his lips became sadistic and cruel. "So long as I am king, treason shall not go unpunished." He turns to the executioner. "Ser Ilyn! Bring me his head!"

The crowd was roaring now as the Gold Cloaks kicked the back of Lord Stark's knees. Sansa and Jeyne swiftly plead while being held back by Ser Meryn Trant and Ser Boros Blount respectively. Cersei grasps Joffrey's arm and tries to command him to cease the order, but her son is having none of it as he slaps her away. He was too much into this as there was a pure look of malice in his eyes.

Myrcella's heart was pounding and her stomach twisted at what was happening. She looks over to her two friends and moves over to them, but is blocked by Lord Baelish. Upon looking back at the statue, the princess saw Arya was no longer there.

In the meantime, Petyr was smirking as he occasionally glanced back to the defenseless Lord Stark. Things were coming around swimmingly as he was mending back his plans. He'll get back what he lost and then some once the execution finally takes place.

For his part, Varys took on a guise of shock and surprise, but was inwardly collected. He knew this would happen after his discussion with Roxas earlier. But present events still didn't settle his worriment as he glanced about wondering where the Keybearer will appear to intervene.

The crowd roared as the king's justice appeared with the Stark ancestral Valyrian steel sword Ice in hand. Bodies closed in, pushing and trampling, yet the guards kept them back with swords and shields. Before long there was infighting between supporters of the Starks with those of the newly crowned king.

Ned Stark was breathing heavily, the sound of the crowd and commotion being drowned out as his heartbeat thrummed in his ears. There was an additional indiscernible noise that he couldn't make out, a ringing of sorts as he glanced around the crowd.

For a moment, he could have sworn he saw Arya at the leg of the statue in the area but she was gone.

She was there. Was she safe? Was she recognized?

Where did she go? Was she even there to begin with?

The man felt a small breeze of wind whipping by his neck and out of the corner of his eyes, he spotted Payne testing Ice with another swing.

Ned exhaled, recalling something his father once told him decades ago.

"Whether in the company of loved, hated or the unfamiliar, each man faces death alone."

This was it.

He could feel Ilyn raising Ice for the last time and Ned bowed his head, eyes closed, rapidly muttering a northern prayer for none to hear.

Sansa screamed and cried now, Sandor Clegane having now stepped in to keep her back as she freed herself from Meryn Trant.

"FATHER!" She screeched, tears freely streaming down her face, reaching out with her one hand in a vain attempt to reach him.

"Brother, please," Myrcella pleaded, eyes wide and horrified. "Stop this madness!"

Just as Ser Ilyn Payne brought down Ice, having its blade sing and flash through the air-

"STOP!"

The executioner's form was frozen solid. Above his head were ethereal symbols that were unfamiliar to anyone who took a better inspection of them.

Everything and everyone completely froze, all staring at the would-be executioner in shock and bewilderment.

Ned seized up before releasing his breath.

His eyes were now open and slowly, nervously even, Ned turned his head to see Ser Ilyn Payne frozen in place.

"Whew, that was a close one." Spoke a familiar voice. "Sorry it took so long, Ned. Oh, I'll be taking that."

Relief flooded the bodies of Eddard Stark, Sansa, Myrcella and many others.

Joffrey, however, felt unrepentant rage explode inside, growling savagely at the new arrival. "YOU!"

Roxas was standing next to Ned Stark, Ice in the left hand and Oblivion in the right.

Before the hooded teen addressed the newly crowned king, he took a glance at Payne and made a small 'ah'.

"One moment." Roxas reared Oblivion back and smashed it into the gut of the executioner. Nothing happened at first. Yet a metaphorical ticking clock reached zero and the spell that held Payne in place subsided.

The next thing everyone knew, Ser Ilyn Payne was seen flying into the air, his body disappearing over a rooftop.

"...I think I went a bit too much there. Whoops." He said aloud.

Hopefully, he landed in the ocean, if the direction of the hit was of any indication. If not… well… so long… farewell Ser Illyn. You had… a mediocre life. If he survived… would he really want to be alive at that poi-

"SEIZE HIM!" Joffrey was seeing red, pointing at the Keybearer. "KILL HIM IF YOU HAVE TO!"

And like that, a flurry of movement and commotion occurred.

What was once jeers and shouts from a bloodthirsty crown calling for Ned Stark's head turned to shock and disbelief.

They may have fallen victim to a mob mentality yet did the new King really just call for the death of the Keyblade Master? The Hero of the North and the Light of Westeros?

Several Gold Cloaks moved towards Roxas' position, but they were quickly knocked away by him wielding Ice. There was no effort at all.

Once Roxas cut Ned out of his bindings, he was given back Ice just before he quickly moved to swerve away from coming swing by a member of the Kingsguard. A moment later, a crossbow bolt whizzed through the air before it was caught in Roxas' leather-clad hand.

"I thought crossbows were interesting to some capacity." Roxas notes as he eyes the projectile. "Never used them myself. They were more of Xigbar's expertise. But I always thought they'd take too long to reload. Me, on the other hand."

Roxas whipped his arm and flung the crossbow bolt back to its original sender, knocking the man back in the distance and having him topple over. Anyone who witnessed this near and afar from the one man balked.

"I can do just as well." Roxas says before summoning his Keyblades and moving to trade blows against any foes coming his way.

"Sansa." Ned gritted out, feeling the sensation of adrenaline begin to course through his body.

He was in a weakened state after being in the Black Cells for so long but he'd be damned if he would allow anyone to cause his daughter such grief as Joffrey did.

Ser Boros Blount moved to intercept the Stark Lord yet the man was having none of it.

He called upon his power, allowing his Wolf's blood to pump his veins as he swung with everything he had.

His attack coupled with Ice's size and the savagery behind it smashed into the Kingsguard's blade. Blount couldn't hold back the size and his sword got chipped, broken and Valyrian Steel now dug into his side.

Blood spilled out from the injury and from his mouth and a moment later, Ned pulled Ice free and the man dropped dead.

Just as he was about to move forward, the hairs on the back of his neck stood up.

Roxas, having beaten back several Gold Cloaks, also halted in his movement and immediately called forth his other Keyblade.

Pools of darkness appeared, and with it, Heartless began flooding out of them soon after.

Things became more dire now as the small folk went into a panic and fled for their lives. Many fell to the Heartless and joined their ranks once falling to the darkness. More followed when the Unversed came into play.

Many nobles present for the coronation fled as well, having their own guards protect them or flee alongside them. Several protectors came in with hopes of taking out the dark fiends, but barely held them off or were slain. Others, however, stayed to protect the other people of great importance on the dias like Ser Preston and Ser Aerys of the Kingsguard who didn't want to fight the "traitors". The Hound, however, merely raged on as he began batting away any foe coming his way.

Roxas went on the offensive immediately, slicing up dozens of Heartless and Unversed. He wanted to get close to Myrcella, Sansa and the others but these had to sadly come first.

Ned Stark clenched his teeth tightly and he too fought off several Heartless and Unversed, his ancestral sword cleaving through the beasts. He'd do things far better if he was at his peak, but he had to push himself in order to get back to his eldest daughter.

Unbeknownst to the Stark Lord, he was being glared at with malevolent eyes.

Amongst the chaos, Lord Baelish had his Valyrian catspaw dagger in hand, holding it by the sheath. He withdrew the blade and moved in to strike down Ned once and for all when-

"AAAAHHHH!"

-Petyr fell down to his knees as the back of his leg was cut.

Looking towards the one who attacked him, he was met by a punch across his face and had him fall off the pulpit and into the smallfolk crowd below. In the process, he had let go of his weapon and its sheath as they clattered onto the pulpit's surface.

Walking to it, Arya quickly took the catspaw dagger and sheathed it before slipping it into part of her belt to keep it in place.

'Might as well have a secondary weapon just in case.' Was her quick thought before leaving to join the rescue of her father and sister.

A Gold Cloak went to attack the younger Stark girl but was struck from behind by a direwolf, which mauled his neck.

Arya turned, seeing her precious Nymeria had protected her. She quickly pushed aside the grizzly feeling but gave the direwolf a smile. "Good girl."

"I told you to stay behind with the others, Arya!"

The Stark girl turned once more, seeing Roxas there and didn't look pleased with her presence.

"I just couldn't stay away with my father's life at stake!" Arya argued.

"You're just risking your life and making things worse!" No. XIII shot back.

As much as Arya wanted to refute, she couldn't right now as she now had to fight for her life. Hastily, she jumped back from a Neoshadow from clawing at her.

Just as it was about to pounce at her, the Heartless was smashed down to the ground by a large hammer. A moment later, the Neoshadow disbursed into dark wisps.

Arya's head snapped in the direction of her savior, her eyes widening slightly.

It was Gendry, who wore some of the armor he made for quite some time now. It wasn't finished, but what he had was enough at this time. Most noticeable was the bull's themed helm he wore as it helped protect him from a few blows to the head. He retaliated when he swung a small Warhammer that knocked away or caved in an enemy from his blows.

Beside him was the crown-wearing cat as he rode Moogle Mog, who was bashing away enemies left and right while several human ones were quickly bewildered by its presence.

"Gendry, Cait. Get her out of here!" Roxas shouted, twirling his Keyblades around as he took out several more Heartless.

"Ya got it!" Says Cait Sith, saluting the Keybearer.

Gendry wordlessly agreed, quickly moving to easily pick Arya up.

"Gendry!" The young Stark girl complained. "Let me go!"

"Sorry, my lady, but I have to decline." Gendry said with a tinge of amusement, moving to vacate the area.

"I'm no lady!" The girl in his arms cried out, throwing her hands up in a temper tantrum. "Nymeria, help!"

Her direwolf didn't help her with her human's "plight". Instead, she ran alongside Gendry and Moogle Mog as they tried to get away from the vicinity.

Off to the side of this whole mess, Sansa heard Arya's yell, making her heart somewhat sink and elevate at the same time. She was alive and well but she was here, of all places thus putting her right in the middle of danger.

Ned had also caught sight of her and saw the boy he knew to be his deceased friend's bastard rushing away with her in his arms.

It would have been a sight to laugh at had he not been in the middle of battle.

More Heartless and Unversed were appearing, adding to the pandemonium.

Roxas grits his teeth, turning to see Gendry being cornered when Cait Sith jumps in to fight off the enemies of darkness.

The Bastard of the deceased King moved to run when more appeared in his path. Begrudgingly, he set Arya down and readied his Warhammer with Arya twirling Needle in one hand and holding catspaw in the other.

Though she appeared ready, there was a clear tinge of nervousness in her eyes.

Over with Ned, the Stark Lord was now frantically fighting, torn between who he should go for first.

Both his daughters were in peril, damn wherever and whoever they were with.

Roxas was fighting off an entire small army of Heartless and Unversed by himself and Sansa was still next to Clegane and that vile brat Joffrey.

Taking a brief glance at his youngest daughter, he saw she was valiantly fighting against these dastardly foes with assistance from Gendry and that bizarre cat creature and whatever that thing was that the cat rode upon. Then came another surprise as there was a loud howl heard piercing through the noise.

A Shadow that jumped at Arya from behind was pounced at by Nymeria, his daughter's Direwolf. The gargantuan Wolf sunk its teeth into the body of the Heartless and thrashed its head about before the Shadow disintegrated.

Arya looked back for a moment and laughed in relief and gratitude at her Direwolf's assistance and arrival when Gendry grabbed her by the back of her collar to pull her out of the path of a Soldier swinging at her. The one Heartless was bashed away, courtesy of Moogle Mog as Cait Sith shouted into his microphone, having ethereal soundwaves send it flying back and colliding against its dark brethren. It moved close behind the retreating humans to return to the others once vacating Visenya's Hill.

As the conflict went on, archers posted on the walls were firing their arrows at the Heartless and Unversed. Nothing really worked as they didn't do any harm to them.

However, this didn't mean they could let up in trying to harm anyone else.

One archer took aim and fired at Ned Stark. They shot through the air to seek their target. The Northerner felt a rush of air whiz past his face when he moved to deflect a blow from a member of the City Watch. In the process, the one arrow pierced the Gold Cloak's throat, and massive amounts of blood started to pool in his mouth before falling over and dying out.

Having the harsh reminder of other forms of adversaries seeking to end him, Ned made to move. He did his best to be quick enough to avoid the coming shots while being observant. He was unlucky when he got an arrow to the leg, having him stumble slightly. Acting quickly, he broke off the arrow's shaft with a swift swing of Ice. Despite it still lodged in his limb, Ned gritted his teeth and kept on fighting, even when another arrow zipped through the air and struck his shoulder.

Ned released a pained shout that sounded more like a growling wolf than a regular man, his lip curling into one reminiscent of his House's animal. He was breathing heavily, erratically, yet his vision remained clear and focused.

Sansa was just ahead of him. Just a metaphorical mile away that may seem endless with what's happening now.

And no amount of Heartless, Unversed, or any rats sent by that shit brat would stop him.

Ned felt a brief flash of his memory back to the time of the Rebellion when he, Ventus and Robert fought off the Unversed together. Brief as it was, Ned couldn't deny the pang in his heart at the absence of his two friends. One had died recently and the other's fate remains unknown to the Lord of Winterfell.

Despite being lost in his thoughts for the moment, it didn't hinder Ned in his fight, his body moving on instinct to fight off the creatures of Darkness and negativity.

Ned fought his way to his daughter only to be surrounded by the aforementioned foes above. Still, the strain on his body was coming into play even with his adrenaline pumping.

He wasn't young and spry anymore. He wasn't well rested and fed. He wasn't at his peak. As such, he tumbled from whatever hits came his way.

That old stinging sensation from getting struck by the Unversed brought Ned to a knee, resting against Ice. He was breathing heavily, clutching his sword tightly, eyes darting around at the Heartless and Unversed surrounding him. They were practically taunting him at this point in trying to see if he'd continue the fight or surrender to his demise.

Suddenly, from above, a Hi-Potion appeared and its contents fell over Ned Stark. Immediately, he felt his entire body rejuvenate. A moment later, several dark foes were slain and a young girl around Roxas' age came rushing up to him with her face tinged in concern, her hand held out for him.

"Lord Stark! Are you alright?"

Seeing the daughter of Oberyn there, some questions arose in his mind. More so once seeing her wield the Missing Ache Keyblade.

"Tyene?!" Eddard gasped in recognition. "When did you-"

"I got your back, milord." Said the Sand Snake, grabbing his hand and trying to get him to stand up. "We best move."

"But Sansa and-"

"Where do you think we're going next?" She retorted. "Come on."

Hearing the rhetoric from her, Ned quickly shut up and did his best to get to where his eldest daughter was located.

Over yonder, Joffrey viewed the spectacled from behind the Hound and what few Kingsguard were with him.

Things should've been much simpler instead of becoming a mess. How Ned Stark should've been executed all so easily to properly begin his reign. Now things were not going as planned.

He wanted to call more upon the dark creatures gifted to him in order to properly rid himself of the traitors and interlopers, even if their numbers were all so very little. The new king had to recall their numbers would replenish themselves with more peasants being slain and relatively take care of the issue by itself.

However his mind was more distracted with a surprising addition.

Having shifted his focus away from Roxas, who he considered his hated foe and "rival" for the throne, Joffrey seethed further upon seeing the Dornish whore wielding a Keyblade of her own!

'How does she have that?!' He thought with anger. 'She doesn't deserve to have that! She is undeserving of wielding such a blade!'

The bastard king would've seen more of this if it weren't for him being pulled away by members of both the City Watch and Kingsguard to get back to the Red Keep. He didn't even wait for anyone else of great importance -such as his mother, his sister and his betrothed- to be brought with him to safety.

Back with the action, Roxas had briefly jumped over to Arya and Gendry, quickly unleashing his power of Light in an explosive display of power, clearing out dozens of Heartless and Unversed around them.

"Alright, you guys need to get out of here and get back with the others." Roxas ordered, turning to where Sansa was.

"But what about my father and sister?" Arya argued, turning to where her family was, distraught at being so close yet feeling so far away.

"Come along now lass," Cait gently encouraged. "Have faith in Roxas and in your father."

"Let's go Arya." Gendry softly but firmly said, delicately grabbing her arm.

Arya looked at Cait and Gendry then at Roxas who looked back at her.

"Please-"

"I promise." Roxas assured, widening his stance before jumping at full speed and force.

He went into a spinning slice, rotating three times whilst cleaving through multiple Heartless and Unversed.

Landing, Roxas instantly jumped again into a spinning corkscrew, slashing apart dozens of enemies whilst pillars of light expunged around him. The light pillars struck enemies further from the Nobody as he continued on his rampage.

The city guards who once tried going after him were either fleeing or getting their hearts taken by the Heartless. The crowd that was here had lessened as some ran, some tried to fight back, others were trampled and more had their hearts taken by the Heartless.

No. XIII steeled himself, taking out any Heartless and Unversed in his path that targeted the people of the city while continuing his path toward Ned's eldest daughter and Robert's sole daughter. He sadly didn't focus if there was anyone else near them. His attention was primarily towards the two girls who had been vying for his attention for much longer than Tyene.

They had been lucky to remain unharmed in the midst of this chaos as it appeared that the Heartless and Unversed cared more about those fleeing and those who were putting up resistance over the two girls. Not that he minded.

What he did mind was the vicinity they had to Joffrey.

That little shit wasn't far from where they stood and from how he looked, the boy appeared deranged and enraged.

Plus… wisps of darkness were exuding from his body. It's surprising he wasn't being noticed by some Kingsguard and City Watch members escorting him away from the vicinity. Then again, they were more focused on their duty and saving their own lives in the process.

That was troubling.

But he needed to get to the girls first.

Just as Roxas was about to reach for Sansa and Myrcella, the hairs on the back of his neck stood on end, his instincts blaring.

Spinning around at the last possible second, Roxas felt his arms shake and ache from the impact of the Keyblade that impacted the two he held.

His opponent laughed manically at the Nobody's reflexes.

"Having fun yet?!" The Dark Keybearer snarled with a sadistic smile beneath his helmet.

"Vanitas." Roxas venomously growled, a more intense glare in place now, light radiating from his body whilst Vanitas counteracted that with Darkness.

Light and Darkness came out in visible bursts as the pair entered into an intense clash of Keyblades, the metal clashing being audibly heard by all.

It was a sight to behold.

Many had seen their initial encounter at the Tourney of the Hand and it was a spectacle at that time.

But this one was an immediate step up as neither had any "warm-up" moves or feeling each other's process. They immediately went into dueling each other specifically and they were both literally glowing/exuding Light and Dark energy from their bodies.

The stories and myths of old couldn't even come close to replicating this display of power.

Roxas crossed his Keyblades together to deflect an overhead attack that he then pushed back, going for a dual horizontal slash that Vanitas jumped away from. No. XIII didn't let up, jumping after his enemy, the pair exchanging rapid clashes with sparks of light and darkness bursting out from each strike.

Vanitas hit Roxas with enough force to send the teen propelling back. No. XIII performed an aerial recovery, landing on the ground with a skidding halt, reflexively conjuring a Reflect spell to stop a Dark Firaga that impacted his barrier.

The flames dissipated to reveal Roxas' piercing blue eyes locked onto Vanitas' sicky yellow, despite the helmet covering his face. A moment later, the barrier burst outward, its hexagonal pieces not wildly flying about but instead being focused at Vanitas by Roxas.

Vanitas laughed maniacally, rapidly spinning Void Gear around to swat away several of the hexagons yet some managed to bypass his defenses, smashing hard against him. Despite the pain, the Dark Keyblade master maintained his manic smile, making a dramatic swipe of his Keyblade to get into his combat stance before dashing right at Roxas.

The blond already had his Keyblades up, the two colliding against each other with another eruption of Light and Darkness coming in their wake.

Vanitas cackled insanely, throwing his head back in the process.

"Oh man!" He savagely exclaimed. "I knew that you were a step up from that wimpy loser Ventus but Kingdom Hearts if I had known you earlier, my life would have been so much less boring."

"If only I cared about entertaining you." Roxas growled out, the Light emanating from his body increasing in fluctuation.

Pushing Vanitas back, he jumped after him with the black-haired teen going on the defensive, blocking, parrying, dodging or even resorting to summoning or calling upon the Heartless and Unversed to stall against Roxas.

Yet they only served to be momentary distractions as the Light radiating off of Roxas coupled with him constantly swinging his Keyblades around made short work of these lesser foes.

"Why do you keep doing this, Vanitas?" Roxas shouted in the midst of their battle, the two clashing their Keyblades and entering into a brief power struggle. In these few moments, they locked eyes. "What do you want?"

"Want? Want?!" Vanitas parroted these words as though they were the stupidest thing he had ever heard. He laughed maniacally, a gleeful aura radiating from him. "This is everything. I may still follow the old bastard's plan but you? You are everything I want and need right now. No bullshit, no words, no need to talk about any crappy ideals or morals and Light and Dark and BAH."

Vanitas strained his muscles, taking a step forward whilst Roxas took a step back.

"You don't care about any of it." Vanitas sounded like he was whining happily in a creepy way. "Every time I see you, I know we don't need to talk."

"But we have talked." Roxas found himself dumbly saying in response.

"And it always ended like this." Vanitas exclaimed. They jumped away from each other, taking their stances.

To emphasize Vanitas' point, the two Keybearers rushed at each other with an inhuman speed, striking and parrying each other's blows. The clang of their respective weapons could be heard at an incredibly frantic rhythm, practically making it heard throughout the vicinity and overpowering any other being made.

Roxas was the one who took the initiative by leaping to the side, dodging Vanitas' downward vertical slash, but the Unversed progenitor was seemingly prepared for that as well as he slashed in an upward motion, hoping to hit Roxas while he was still airborne. His hopes remained just that as Roxas parried Void Gear in a spinning motion, sending it back down in one rotation while also setting himself to slash at Vanitas' helmet with his other Keyblade. Vanitas quickly raised his unoccupied hand to send out a magical blast to deflect the executioner's blow meant for him. With that deflected, Void Gear was swung into Roxas' belly, sending him flying back in pain and crashing through the front doors of the great sept.

Flying through the central area of the place of worship, Roxas had to do another airborne recovery before landing his feet on a stable surface. He kicked himself off and made a proper landing on the marble floor.

"Gods be good." Spoke a startled septa. "What is-"

"Get out now!" Roxas barked, eyes locked on his foe that came barreling into the Sept.

There wasn't much time for the one septa and a few others to react when Roxas quickly brought up his Keyblades in an "X" formation to block the sudden arrival of Vanitas, who brought Void Gear down in a cleaving motion. The shock of his appearance caused the septas, silent sisters and other individuals still residing within the great sept to flee for their lives.

Pushing Vanitas back, Roxas soon delivered a flurry of attacks springing from each arm, weaning one after the other. Vanitas quickly put up a defensive measure with his Keyblade and quick footwork but didn't struggle with the situation. The Organization member saw an opening once stepping diagonally, smashing Void Gear onto Roxas' back to send him sailing across the chamber and crashing right through the statue of the Warrior.

As the one statue came crumbling down, it was blasted away by the Unversed progenitor with pillars of darkness to clear the way. The masked Keybearer then slammed his weapon into the marble floor to cast Earthra, causing it to severely crack before pillars of rock shot forward to begin striking the one pillar where Roxas was located.

Roxas' figure soon shot out of the rubble and collided against Vanitas. Presently in Winter Howl's Formchange, No XIII was punching the Unversed progenitor to and fro. He soon had his one opponent pinned against the Maiden's statue and pummeled him relentlessly, sending massive cracks along its surface. Before long it began to crumble and topple all over just when Roxas delivered a harsh kick to Vanitas' stomach so he could shoot away from the falling debris. Moments later, Vanitas was buried by the harsh weight of the former Maiden.

Landing some distance away, Roxas reverted Winter's Howl to its original form and resummoned another Keyblade to defend himself from the explosion from the pile of rubble. It wasn't long before Vanitas shot out and clashed his weapon against his opponents.

The clang of Keyblades soon reverberated at an impossibly high intensity as the flurry of blades became a shining blur of enchanted steel. The singing and ringing coming from the onslaught seemed to never end with the ones making it all happen being relentless to gain the upper hand. However, at some point, the swordplay shifted when Vanitas shot his arm forward, grasped Roxas' coat, unsettled his movements with a pull and sent him down into a knee thrust right to the head. The blow caused Roxas to stumble, which left him open to send him blasted right into the Crone's statue.

No. XIII crashed right through the stone, the statue collapsing into hundreds of pieces once shattering upon the ground.

Roxas groggily got back up, shaking his head to get the daze out of his vision.

"That was a cheap trick." Roxas managed out, leveling an intense stare at Vanitas who merely shrugged.

"The "cheap trick" worked." He retorted, getting back on the offensive.

Vanitas jumped in for a strike, Roxas holding up Oathkeeper with a shaky arm. He felt the impact of Void Gear against his Keyblade and felt a strain on his body.

Void Gear grinded across the body of Oathkeeper until reaching the teeth.

In an instant, Roxas twisted his Keyblade, jerking Vanitas closer and trapping Void Gear. Rearing his head back, Roxas headbutted the Keybearer of Darkness, missing the bewildered look of pain on Vanitas as he realized just how he was just attacked.

Roxas was quick to add to his counterattack and used Oblivion to land a powerful blow to send the Unversed progenitor airborne. Soon after, the Nobody cast a quick series of spells to bombard his opponent with. Unfortunately, they were quickly evaded with the helmeted boy warping away.

Instincts yelled at Roxas, prompting him to move out of the way. In the process, energy cuts sailed through the air and cleaved through the Father's statue. It slid downward, fell and toppled over as it collided against the Mother's statue. It held there for a time before the two Keybearers collided against it and broke the two statues even further.

Through a series of continued and traded strikes and slashes, the marble floor became dilapidated. The seven-pointed star was heavily fragmented with many other pillars within the chamber. Through some coming spells blasted left and right, another statue fell. The Smith no longer was its namesake as it was broken down just like some of the others.

What was once a lavish and extravagantly decorated Sept was now a heaping pile of rubble, with every statue of the Seven Gods of the Andals having been destroyed.

All but one.

The statue of the Stranger remained untouched, unblemished even, the hooded figure's head remaining as it were. It served as a witness to the clashes of foreign powers on this world before the combatants eventually left the ruined sept.

As the two veteran Keyblade wielders fought, things were still going on outside of the Great Sept of Baelor.

The Heartless and Unversed had them surrounded. Ser Preston and Ser Aerys did their best to protect Princess Myrcella, her mother, Lady Sansa and Jeyne Poole.

They were barely holding the dark creatures back when a large swath was taken out by a Valyrian blade and Keyblade combo.

Ned and Tyene came to their rescue, but it was an awkward arrival at best given the circumstances. But for one redhead, that mattered little.

Sansa's lips trembled at the sight of her father, him appearing haggard and tired but conveying a fierce expression of unwavering determination to get to his daughter.

And in that, he had succeeded.

"Father!" Sansa exclaims, running up to him and hugging him tight.

"Sansa." Ned Stark said in relief, holding his daughter close to him. "I'm so sorry."

"No Father, I'm sorry." Sansa wept, feeling as though she were five once more in her father's arms. "I should have tried to come for you sooner."

Ned quickly quieted her down, rubbing her back as gently as he could.

The man looked up at the others staring at him. Jeyne Poole appeared relieved and grateful at being saved by her Liege Lord, Myrcella held a small smile, the Kingsguard appeared ready to attack Ned yet they appeared hesitant and unsure whereas Cersei…

The queen clearly held a degree of mixed emotions at the sight of the man and he himself conveyed the same.

Nonetheless… Ned was still a man of honor.

"We might not see eye to eye, Cersei, but-"

"A parent would do anything for their child, no?" The Queen quietly said, her voice being heard by all despite the ongoing battle behind them.

Ned held a strained smile in her direction, one that conveyed genuine gratitude that gave Cersei a contradictory mix of emotions. She hated this man but only so far. No, rather she hated and admired that here was a man who never lied or hid who he was.

So much like Ventus.

No wonder the pair became such fast and loyal friends.

As this conversation took place, another happened.

"Princess." The Sand Snake greeted with a sly smile, one that Myrcella returned with a tinge of sorrow.

"Tyene." Says Myrcella. "I'm so sorry you lost-"

"It's fine." Tyene says quickly. "We can exchange apologies for another time. Let's get you to safety."

The Baratheon princess nods before noticing what the Sand Snake presently wields, which gave quite the surprise.

"Tyene? You wield-"

"We can save questions for later." Tyene sternly says.

Myrcella recomposes and nods once more. "Indeed. We must be away from here."

"Away from where?"

The others snapped their attention to see the Unversed progenitor standing there.

"Vanitas." Ned growled out, stepping forward, holding up Ice. Ser Preston and Ser Aerys quickly moved to attention to guard the princess and the queen. Tyene poised her Keyblade while standing in front of Sansa and Jeyne Poole.

The Dark Keybearer was nursing multiple injuries but he still stood strong as he faced Eddard Stark, the present members of the Kingsguard and Tyene Sand. Sansa and Myrcella tried to find where Roxas went off to since they last saw him fighting Vanitas, spotting him being swarmed by Heartless and Unversed.

"Well~ well~ well~" Vanitas taunted, regaining their attention. "If it isn't the Quiet Wolf. Look at you now."

Stark said nothing, instead snarling at the Keybearer.

"Oh~ so Scary~~" Came the mocking response.

In the blink of an eye, Vanitas disappeared. A second later, he reappeared in between Myrcella and the Kingsguard. A swift instant later, the members were off their feet as they were sent flying. Ned and Tyene were bashed away soon after when they turned in response.

With these people out of the way, Vanitas acted with what he presently had in mind.

Shifting his gaze, he looked to see Sansa having Jeyne behind her with Myrcella staying close to them both. And from the corner of his eye, Cersei stood with frightened eyes.

Vanitas refocused his attention on his target.

"Princess, oh princess. You have no idea how valuable you are."

An instant later, Void Gear was thrusted, poised to take down the girls before him.

However, Myrcella -who was the closest to the offending weapon- was pushed aside and struck someone else instead.

Turning from her fall to the ground, Myrcella looked up and was horrified by what she was witnessing before her very eyes.

"MOTHER!"

The horrified wail could've echoed if it weren't drowned out by other noises in the vicinity.

This was what drew the attention of many present witnessing such a dreadful spectacle. For Vanitas' Keyblade pierced Cersei's chest. Darkness began flooding out of her in a massive wave. As this happened, Myrcella's mother let out a silent scream as her body began to dissolve with the dark vapors flooding out of her. She looked about, tears filling her eyes, her gaze landing on her daughter and lastly, Roxas who just arrived onto the scene.

"Ven… tus…" She whispered desperately and with longing before Darkness completely enshrouded her body.

"Too bad, so sad." Vanitas mocks, swiping his Keyblade to disburse the dark vapors.

The vapors -however- radiated with Dark potency that were soon absorbed into Void Gear and its owner inhaled sharply.

The aura Vanitas possessed increased in power, more dark wisps wafting off his body. "Boy, your mother clearly had a lot of darkness in her. Probably much more than your father."

"You monster!" Tyene spat out. She had no love for Cersei but she did care for Myrcella and she just lost her mother.

Vanitas casually shrugged. "I've been called worse."

Footsteps quickly came in, having Vanitas move swiftly to block the dual strike of Roxas' Keyblades. He pushed him away and turned to see the Baratheon princess get onto her feet and try to flee.

"You ain't going anywhere."

His hand snapped forward, grasped Myrcella's arm and pulled her close.

"You're staying here, princess."

"Myrcella!" Sansa, Tyene and Roxas yelled in worry.

"Princess!" Ser Preston and Ser Aerys yelled out.

Ned gritted his teeth as he didn't know what to do now. His eyes momentarily left the old adversary and saw the Heartless and Unversed converge around them. Their only way out was closed off. They were trapped.

"As for you all," A great amount of darkness blanketed Void Gear and soon, it erupted off the Dark Keybearer. Spinning it in his hand, Vanitas soon brought it down to the earth. "Goodbye."

The instant the one Keyblade made contact, something happened.

All around the Great Sept of Baelor, Darkness erupted in pillars that began to rapidly expand and consume all in the vicinity. It spread out further as it reached the very edge of Visenya's Hill.

"Wha-What's happening?!" Tyene cried out.

The darkness was absorbing nearly everything in its path.

Others were quickly swallowed up by the darkness, others were spared. It was practically at random.

At the very edge of Visenya's Hill, Arya Gendry, Cait Sith and Nymeria the direwolf were rushing as hard as they could. They heard the erupting explosion at the Great Sept, causing them to turn. It was a mistake on their part as they were quickly swallowed up by the darkness alongside many other small folk and other individuals. As the wave moved on and disbursed, others who weren't consumed could only balk in surprise and terror in wondering what just happened.

From Roxas' perspective, everything had gone black.

On instinct, he quickly wrapped his arms around the closest thing that made contact with him.

"Roxas!" He heard Tyene's voice over the madness. "What's happening?!"

"Whatever you do, don't let go!" He shouted as the winds whipped around and they were enshrouded.

Roxas could feel the darkness all around him.

His coat and natural affinity to the Darkness was keeping it at bay but it was smothering him unlike previous times.

In the endless abyss, Roxas clung onto Tyene tightly and she did the same in turn. He had his left arm around her waist, holding her in a protective embrace whilst she had her arms wrapped around him, her face shoved in his shoulder, the black fabric obscuring her face where she had her eyes shut tightly. He felt lil' Bahamut squirm within his coat, no doubt from just the pressure but the feeling washing over them. The Darkness felt more alive wherever they were and she had a sharp sensation all over her skin. It didn't hurt but she felt as though something was trying to poke, prod and pull at her in all different directions.

Roxas, in the meantime, tried to stave off the darkness long enough to get a lock on his friends and being swept up in this abyssal storm. If he wasn't quick enough, they could be swallowed up by the Darkness, losing their hearts and bodies forever. The darkness was just relentless. He had his eyes open yet could barely see anything.

They were here, close by he could… sense it?

Wait…

What was that strange humming sensation coming from his nos- Roxas rapidly shook his head.

Focus on this sudden development can come later.

He was able to pick up on the scents of… that was Ned, he was the closest. Sansa was next with Arya, Gendry and Cait being the furthest. It was hard to tell on who else was possibly there.

The Nobody tried to get to them physically but this damned Darkness kept swarming around him.

… And it was swarming around them as well!

They were gonna be swallowed up! They were gonna be lost!

'Dammit, dammit, dammit, NO!' Roxas frantically thought as his mind went through a hurricane of ideas of trying to get to them.

He needed to reach out to them, he had to. If he didn't make it in time, they would lose their hearts and become Heartless! And since he knew that they were all strong-willed, their Nobodies would exist as well and depending on their appearances, if he wasn't around, the Organization would place them under their thumb.

There had to be a way to get to them.

He can't let them fall.

He just can't.

Doing his best to reach out, Roxas summoned a Keyblade into his grasp. He aimed it onward and focused on the individuals in question.

From the tip of his Keyblade, a piercing light gathered around the tip, cutting through the smoldering Darkness.

It illuminated the area around him long enough for his vision to clearly see Ned, Arya, Gendry, Cait Sith, Nymeria the direwolf and Sansa.

'There they are!' Were Roxas' desperate thoughts and as soon as that thought finished did the light gathered at the tip of his Keyblade shot out in a wide beam that dispersed into six separate strands.

They all made a beeline for the six individuals who were nearly swallowed up by the Darkness before reaching them. Each beam stopped short of a foot away from their hearts, exploding into a barrier of light that surrounded them entirely.

They barely registered what was happening when their lights soon glowed to the point where only their silhouettes were visible before they all shot off in different directions.

Ned went off one way, Sansa another; with only Arya, Gendry, Nymeria and Cait seemingly being the only group that stayed together.

He didn't exactly understand what he just did but their scents were gone and he felt in his gut that what he accomplished was their safety.

Good. Even though they were shot off to Kingdom Hearts knows where he believed they could keep themselves safe long enough for him to find them.

With the one task over, he did his best to focus on himself, lil' Bahamut and Tyene. The dragon was easy, given he was situated within his coat. The Dornish girl, however, was another thing. Hugging the Sand Snake closer Roxas did his best to protect her with what he needed to do next.

Flooding himself with magic, he shot it outward and blanketed them. Soon after a Corridor of Darkness soon swallowed them up, having them disappear and reappear somewhere bright and extremely warm.

-End Chapter-

AN:

Been quite a while since getting this updated.

You know the usual song and dance. Work ate up a lot of my time and killed my mood quite often. Wasn't great, especially with the crap that went on.

In hopes of reviving such a mood, I needed to read and watch a lot of content to get my drive going. This meant watching a lot of hours of FF 7 Rebirth and FF 16 content along with going through Solo Leveling of both the manhwa and anime as some examples. I would've played the games, but I don't have a PS5.

FMW: Playing through Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Rebirth is also a grind since I can't help but wanna go through everything. But it's for a good cause as elements shall be implemented from the games in this story on top of I'm Nobody from the magic, the summons, Sephiroth and all that other good stuff you will be seeing in the story soon enough.

Jeb: As you guys can see, Cersei is killed off and this early in the story. Let us explain.

In the majority of the initial series of A Song of Ice and Fire (in book and show adaptations), Cersei is a big antagonistic force in playing the Game of Thrones. A very complicated one with how people love to hate her and among other things. A lot of what's done for her is driven from the start of her wanting to rule, which she reflects through her actions but pays for the consequences when not careful enough yet later seeks revenge, one way or another all because of her being motivated by love, power and prophecy.

The decision of killing Cersei off this early on was something on my mind for quite some time. Given the amount of changes occurring here and there would've caused Cersei to be useless and a moot character if we kept her in longer than needed. After all, she originally was a problem due to her being supportive and feeding off of Joffrey's rule. Yet with Myrcella being named heir to the Iron Throne by Robert changed it a bit more. Add to the other factors that were brought up beforehand. Thus the decision needed to be made.

FMW: Plus this is the "season" finale of Season/Book one in this story and it being Baelor, in the eternal words of… I don't remember, where there is death, there must always be death. And, well, we like to mix things up. Like Jeb said, when looking over the trajectory of this story, Cersei would have become a background, rather unimportant character in the long term of this story. Her death will actually have a longer-lasting impact now on many characters so her dying here serves a narrative and character purpose.

Anyways, be sure to review this story guys! Would like the criticisms. Please and thank you!

R&R