The Blue Wolf

by choejhulkp9

What if? What if events before Robert's Rebellion and the end of the Targaryen line occurred differently? What if Lyanna Stark did have some feelings for Robert and it led to them laying together before she met Rhaegar? What if she was pregnant when they went to the Tower of Joy in Dorne? These small changes have large repercussions. The Blue Wolf is born and he will Howl with Fury

17. Home is where the heart is-Part 4

Hello and here is Chapter 17 of the Blue Wolf. William's return to King's Landing is reaching its peak and it all starts with the Grand Melee. Another memorable day for his return tourney celebration only this one is special as he himself will be participating, which has drawn plenty of attention and worthy adversaries who are going to exploit this opportunity. Well, if they want to do that then they'd best go for the jugular because William the Conqueror is no easy prey. Enjoy!

Home is where the heart is Part 4

296 AC: Red Keep, King's Landing

The sun rose up over the horizon on the 4th day of the tourney/celebration and this one was going to be special as it was the day for the Grand Melee. The event was as much of a spectacle as the joust, so everyone was excited. Servants and attendees were already getting things ready for the event which would begin midday when the sun was highest in the sky. The best fighters from around the Seven Kingdoms would be participating and one of them had awoken.

William was letting out concise, sharp exhales of breath as he was doing some pushups on the floor in front of his bed. Wearing nothing but some light trousers, he pushed his body up off the ground before lowering himself back down and then back up and repeating over and over in quick succession. His breathing was controlled to ensure he didn't gas himself out and that his exercise was done correctly. Kind of the perfect way to wake himself up and since he had the Grand Melee today it was the best method to get himself ready. After he reached 50 pushups he stopped and then laid on his back before placing his hands behind his head and doing sit ups. He slowly exhaled every time as he sat up, controlling his breathing and focusing on the exercise like Hundred Eyes had drilled into his head all those years ago when he started. It was exercises like these on top of his usual running and sparring that kept his body in such good shape. Sweat slowly started to cake his skin as he continued his sit ups. When he was done, he stood up and moved over to the balcony. He parted the curtains, allowing some sunlight into the room before turning around and jumping up, grabbing onto the curtain bar, and proceeded with the final part of his morning excise which were pullups. With his feet off the ground and his hands equally spaced apart, he pulled himself up to the bar until his chin rose above and then lowered himself back down but alternated pulling himself up, so his head was in front of the bar to better work his shoulders.

Focusing on his exercises, he didn't notice that his activity drew a spectator. He pulled his chin up over the bar, lowered himself down and then pulled himself back up to the bar with it behind his head. He lowered himself and then pulled himself up one last time to see Tyene watching him with amusement. She was wearing a very thin nightdress though it could hardly be considered one since the material was so thin it likely didn't provide warmth for sleeping. And the material was sheer, so it didn't hide any modesty though in Tyene's case she didn't care. He saw her watching him exercise so he lowered himself back down and let go of the bar.

"Don't feel the need to stop. Continue." Tyene said and he chuckled.

"I'm done." He answered so she walked over and looped her hands around his neck and kissed him. The sweat of his skin caked to her sheer nightgown, and she loved feeling it against her skin. He pulled her into his body, tracing his hands down her sides and onto her rear which he grasped much like he had last night.

"Clearly our time together last night didn't wear you out if you were up and training so early this morning. Perhaps my sister and Missandei should have joined us last night?" She chuckled and gave him another kiss. "Why up with the sun?"

"Just getting ready. The Grand Melee is today so I felt it would best if I started the morning right." He answered.

"You've killed pirates, slavers, Dothraki, the Second Sons, and the Golden Company not to mention defeated Hercules in combat. I doubt there is anyone in that Grand Melee who could provide that much of a challenge." Tyene told him.

"I wouldn't be so sure about that. I'm sure there are plenty of worthy knights who are skilled combatants."

"That is your princely side speaking. There's no need for such flowery words when it's just us, lover." Tyene kissed him on the neck before leaning in to whisper into his ear. "But it shall be a sight to see. You showing all those flowery young knights just how unskilled they truly are against the Conqueror. Men will be reduced to boys and the women will swoon for you, moist between the legs as I am now. All of them doing their best to catch your eye, swoon their way into your bed but knowing they don't stand a chance is just too good for you have your eyes set on another."

"And pray tell who that is, I wonder?" William quipped, playing along.

"Isn't it obvious? The only one you have spent any real time with since you've been back has been the Rose of Highgarden, Margaery Tyrell. Though I suppose it helps that Garlan is her brother and has become a good friend of yours and she's beautiful. Long legs, supple tits, long flowing brown hair I'm sure would look lovely splayed out on this bed as you ravage her. Perhaps we could do so together because you know you're not getting rid of me." She whispered to him before biting his earlobe. "I told you once before. You may marry a good girl, but you need a bad pussy."

She pounced on him, but he stood his ground and took her to the bed. Guess she helped him get in a different kind of exercise prior to the Grand Melee.

Several hours later…

Tourney Grounds

The tourney grounds were littered with spectators as the smallfolk moved into the areas around the arena while the nobles and royal family took their seats in the stands. The attendants went through their final check on the arena for the Grand Melee. It was massive to fit all the fighters participating and so that everyone could see. A large, open, flat piece of ground would be the fighting space, more than enough for all the combatants to fight in with three sets of wooden fences. The inner most fence was only about knee-length high and served as the boundary for the melee. The fencing behind that, the middle fencing was where the attendants were stations along with medics to help those that would need medical attention. The outer fence was the barrier between the arena and the smallfolk who were all huddled and squished into stands to watch. The nobles and royal family would be seated in the stands which were more elevated to give them a better view. The arena was massive, and this Grand Melee would be a spectacle with over 400 men participating. Everyone would be watching.

The men who would be fighting in the Grand Melee were getting ready in their tents which were set up around the tourney grounds. There men were inspecting their weapons and armor and had their squires or attendants helping them. One tent in particular was separated from the rest and guarded by a squad of Unsullied soldiers, a group of Dothraki, along with Hercules and his party. Inside said tent was the crown prince getting ready for the Grand Melee.

He ensured his boots were tightened before slipping both his Valyrian steel dragonbone and stiletto dagger in his boot sheaths before strapping on his light metal leg greaves over his black trousers Once they were secure he slipped on his steel plated vambraces with the Valyrian steel forearm spikes. The men in the melee won't be expected that along with a few other surprises he has. Gendry and Missandei tightened the straps on both vambraces and when they were done Will activated both his hidden blades to make sure they were working which they were, but the Phantom Blade was removed as there were no range weapons allowed. Gendry and Missandei helped Will put on his chest piece which was his iron plated Dō he got from the trader from Yi Ti all those years ago in Astapor when he first arrived. He's used it since and unless it falls apart or breaks, he's not getting rid of it. And he was gonna have a blacksmith here in King's Landing make a few extra because he preferred it over the larger and heavier full steel plate that other knights used. His provided the perfect amount of protection and coverage, but more mobility than others. Once it was secured Gendry attached the leather shoulder pauldrons which had thin steel plate coverings. While Gendry tightened the straps of his leather pauldrons Will put on his steel plated combat gloves. His two Valyrian steel swords Wolf's Fang and Storm's Wrath were on the table along with his last piece of armor which was a helmet but was nothing fancy. A Steel Barbuta-style helmet which covered his head and face but with an angled covering for his eyes so he could see better. He never really wore helmets before in battle so he may commission something more personalized but that was for another day.

He turned around to see how the others were faring. Ser Arthur Dayne was all set in his knight armor with help from Edric. As the prince's sworn shield, he would be going into the melee with him. Hercules and the others offered to join as well but then Will felt it would be too unfair. He had to make it seem like the other combatants had a chance. With William the Conqueror and the Sword of the Morning, they'd be fine. William picked up his two swords and Gendry grabbed the helmet. Edric grabbed Ser Arthur Dayne's helmet as the knight picked up his great sword Dawn and another longsword. "Ready?" Ser Arthur Dayne asked and got a nod in response, so he slipped on his helmet. "All right, let's go."

They walked out of their tent where they were immediately surrounded by the Dothraki and Unsullied for protection and made their way to the arena as the other men did the same. "I'd still think one of us should have joined you and Arthur." Hercules said to William.

"Next time, Hercules. Best not to show up all the men in one week of events." He told him. "Just make sure the others are safe. We'll be fine."

"All right." Hercules replied as they heard the distinct sound of trumpets and usual fanfare.

"Let's get to it." William muttered.

The crowd of smallfolk and nobles cheered as the instruments played in the arrival of the men competing in the Grand Melee. Those that were knights from noble houses or from more affluent regions like the Reach or Westerlands were adorned in full plate armor. Those not from affluent areas like the north or who didn't have wealthy patrons wore lighter steel plates mixed with leather armor or wore mostly leather. The cheers of the crowd got a little louder as William arrived in the arena. He waved at the people when he walked by, even shaking a few hands, and patting some heads of nearby children before he joined the others and entered the arena. He looked into the stands for the nobles and royal family. They were being attended to by servants and everyone was waiting with anticipation. He saw his father, King Robert sitting in his chair in the royal family stand/pavilion area with a goblet of wine as he spoke with his uncle Ned Stark to his left. They were just talking and conversing like it were the old days when they didn't have the responsibilities of their various burdens weighing down their shoulders, before they were King and Warden of the North. Jon Arryn was there was well speaking with William's other uncle Benjen, likely regarding some issues/concerns with the Night's Watch. Before Benjen admitted that speaking with the crown regarding matters of the Night's Watch was an ulterior motive. Mainly about additional aid and men for the order along with supplies and to report some Wildling activities. Their rangers began to report rumors about more Wildling groups joining the Wildling King-Beyond-the-Wall and their numbers continued to grow. It was becoming a concern, so the Night's Watch was preparing. William's return to Westeros was kismet and given that Ned would be going for the return celebration, and he was his uncle, Benjen offered to come down to King's Landing to bring the concerns to the crown. They were a concern but there were still some unknowns that needed to be addressed and information they needed. William had already spoken with Benjen about this, and most likely Hand of the King Jon Arryn would agree but they'd assist where they could. Benjen would be able to leave King's Landing with the prisoners in the dungeons to bring back as recruits along with several wagons of food and some supplies. They'd travel with Ned back to Winterfell and then he'd head to Castle Black after. If the Rangers could get more information for them regarding the Wildlings then they could better prepare but William would speak with Cedric and work on sending the various siege weapons they developed while away like the rapid firing ballistae launchers and possibly even small amounts of black powder.

Next to Benjen was Robb speaking with some of the lords of the Northern Houses as well as Stannis Baratheon and his family along with his brother Renly and Ser Davos Seaworth. Oddly enough, next to the Stormland houses were Prince Doran and the Dornish party including Ellaria, the Sand Snakes, Prince Doran's daughter Arianne and his son Trystane and Ser Arthur's sisters Ashara and Allyria along with their nephew Edric Dayne. Next to them was the houses of the Reach including House Tyrell. Lord Mace, his wife Alerie, his grandmother Olena and his children Willas, Loras, and Margaery. Loras looked dejected just sitting in the stands and not able to compete, but it was his penance and Margaery did her best to comfort her.

Opposite them on the King's right was the rest of the royal family and their Kingsguard. Ser Barristan was standing dutifully behind the King while Queen Cersei along with her children Joffrey, Tommen, and Myrcella had Ser Jaime and Ser Meryn Trant. There they were looking all prim, flashy, and conceited in the bright red and orange as if all the children right there with bright blonde hair weren't a clear enough sign that they were definitely incestuous bastards they were wearing the red colors of House Lannister as opposed to the black and gold of King Robert or the black and blue of William. Honestly, the crown prince figured people already were suspicious of the idea and just kept their mouths shut for fear of being targeted by the Queen and the Lannisters or upsetting the delicate balance of power within the Seven Kingdoms. Then again there are those like his father who he suspected didn't care or were too oblivious or uneducated to know something was wrong. He loved his father, but the man wasn't exactly bright. Still, he was sure that a few of the great players in this game knew the truth and most importantly, he did and had some evidence to back that up so when the time was right, it was the hidden dagger in his sleeve, so to speak.

Sitting next to Cersei and her children was her father Tywin, her aunt Genna and her husband Ser Emmon Frey, and Tyrion. Next to them came assorted houses from the Riverlands and then the Vale. The reason for this sort of seating arrangement within the stands that surrounded the massive grand melee arena was done partially by Jon Arryn and partially by the prince. Tensions, while subdued within the capital of the Seven Kingdoms, were still present with long-lasting history. The tension between the Lannisters and the Dornish came to mind with what happened during the Sack of King's Landing so keeping them as far apart as possible was the best idea. And in an odd way the seating sort of mimicked the alliances that William had made. Due to his lineage, he could count on the support of the North and the Stormlands. His uncle Ned Stark and Stannis Baratheon were Lord Paramounts of the North and Stormlands respectively and their bond was stronger than ever so he could count on them no matter what. With the Dornish, William was good friends with Prince Oberyn having fought side by side while he was in Essos and their alliance in blood cemented good trade with Westeros's southern most kingdom. And Reach he had through Garlan Tyrell. The four regions were grouped together on the King's left whereas on the King's right there was the Westerlands, Riverlands, and the Vale. With Cersei being queen, William had no allies in that region minus Tyrion and perhaps the mutual respect of Tywin Lannister but who knows what could happen in time. And with the Riverlands and the Vale, he didn't have much connection of experience with either but given that his aunt Catelyn Stark was of House Tully in the Riverlands and Lord Jon Arryn of the Vale helped raise him, the could count on them as well.

Lines had been drawn and time would tell if they stayed that way.

Robert and Ned looked down into the massive arena at the growing group of fighters trying to find the crown prince and they spotted him very quickly. Inheriting Robert's height allowed William to stand a few inches taller than most in the melee and his armor was unique and distinct from typical Westeros-style steel plate making him easier to spot in the crowd. Standing side by side with him was Ser Arthur Dayne in his full armor and both were armed with two swords, really the only two armed in that style as most of everyone else had a main weapon and then a shield. Many fighters simply did not possess the skill or mental fortitude to wield two weapons at once independently and the few that did could not compare to the skill of the Sword of the Morning, arguably the greatest knight in the Seven Kingdoms who passed down everything he knew to his protégé and sworn protectorate, the crown Prince William the Conqueror of House Baratheon.

William turned his head and saw his father and uncle looking his way. He gave them a smile and nod before crossing one arm over his chest, a gesture that they were with him in this fight. Robert and Ned followed suit, mirroring his gesture and wishing him the best. "How quickly will my son win this bout?! A bet to see how soon he shall stand victorious! I have no doubt it will be over in but a few minutes! Who would challenge me?!" Robert boasted, earning some laughs of amusement from many, especially those that knew of the prince's prowess and skill in combat.

Stewing in annoyance and disgust in her chair, Queen Cersei wished she could be done with the oaf that was next to her. She was counting down the days until he was no longer of this earth and glimpsed her beautiful young boy, Joffrey. The boy was agitated and wanted the bloodbath to begin in earnest, tired of the delays. Concerning signs of the boy's behavior and appetite for carnage flew right over her head without a care in the world. Her perfect little boy, her golden lion, her true prince, her future great king…if not for one obstacle that stood in his way but one that would soon resolve itself.

'That's it you drunken oaf. Boast. Jeer. Praise your ingrate son from your Northern whore. Soon, his blood will soak the ground and be forgotten.' Cersei couldn't help herself as a devious and nearly mad smile formed on her face. Seven Hells what her father said, he didn't know any better and the man was clearly losing his mind. He'd had us bend over like one of Robert's whores and take the insults and grievances of that boy's very existence. She wasn't content to stand for this anymore.

The boy would die today, consequences be damned.

The festivities were about to begin so William put on his helmet and secured it. He wasn't one for helmets as while they offered protection they also hampered and blocked his vision which he needed. It's why he preferred the hood, but he would wear the helmet for this after enough insistence by Ser Arthur Dayne, Missandei, and Cedric for his own safety. In most situations where he didn't wear a helmet he relied on speed, agility and his surroundings and while it would be the same for here, within the enclosed confines of the grand melee area and with so many men in armor fighting, he would need the extra protection. One hit or cut could spell the end so he reluctantly put it on though the second the numbers began to dwindle he swore he would take it off.

He drew his two Valyrian steel swords and Ser Arthur Dayne did the same with Edric and Gendry taking their scabbards and quickly retreating to the safety of the fenced areas. They were ready for combat and recognized some of the men participating in the melee such as Thoros of Myr standing side by side with Beric Dondarrion, the newly knighted Ser Garlan Tyrell, some of the Northerners like Smalljon Umber and Harion Karstark and the Red Viper himself Oberyn Martell. But there was one person that everyone, both noble and smallfolk recognized because of his sheer size, Ser Gregor Clegane, the Mountain that Rides. He was wearing all black armor and wielding a great sword that was of similar length to a person. From tip of the blade to the edge of the pommel was 64 inches and made of high-quality castle forged steel combined with the Mountain's strength that blade could easily cut through people like it was nothing. Gregor Clegane wasn't originally in King's Landing for the prince's return, likely an effort by Tywin Lannister who knew Oberyn Martell would be present, so he wanted to prevent any bad blood bubbling to the surface. Unfortunately for him, his daughter wasn't so courteous having sent for Ser Gregor shortly after hearing the prince would be participating in the Melee. He rode to King's Landing as fast as possible and managed to arrive this morning where she met him and immediately got him ready for the grand melee. His name was added to the list of combatants at the last second, done so by money and threat of violence. With the Mountain here it was clear that this melee would not be without serious injuries or even deaths. And William was sure that there was one target the Mountain had.

William looked over at Oberyn and the predatory gaze the man had told him all he needed to know. Oberyn wanted vengeance and it had presented itself right here for him, so it was either a blessing by the gods or the lure for his death depending on how you saw it. Oberyn was a skilled warrior, there was no doubt about that, but in a fight against the Mountain, he wasn't sure who would be the winner. The man was like a stone wall with his size, strength and heavy steel armor providing minimal gaps or areas of weakness. Not to mention that massive sword when combined with the Mountain's strength could likely cut through five men with one wide swing. Oberyn on the other hand was wearing light leather armor and using a spear. Will hoped Oberyn didn't coat the blade in poison for this but that was just a guess at this point, and he wouldn't put it past the man as an extra advantage for this one shot. One cut and it would be done which meant that it risked anyone else Oberyn fought.

Ser Arthur Dayne noticed Oberyn's gaze as well and his thoughts were that of William's. Clearly this was going to get very complicated, and he was wise enough to see that Clegane's arrival was clearly an attempt to try and kill the crown prince, but his main goal was to protect William and he would do that even if it killed him. He would be lying to himself if he didn't admit that Gregor Clegane was a menacing opponent. From what he heard Clegane's reputation of menace, strength, and fear were well earned but not for good reasons. The man may be a knight but that was only at the behest of Tywin Lannister and Prince Rhaegar Targaryen paid it no mind at the time. Gregor Clegane besmirched the very idea of knighthood and if Ser Arthur had an inkling then he knew that William wouldn't hesitate to invoke Degradation and remove his knighthood, fear of reprisals or not. The man was lucky enough to be born with certain physical traits and they were the only reason he seemed untouchable, but it was also for those reasons he was not to be underestimated. His strength and monstrous mind were the end of many. The Sword of the Morning wasn't sure how a duel between him and the Mountain that Rides would fair but there was one thing he was certain of. Even if he died, he would do so to protect his prince and avenge Princess Elia Martell and her two children and he was certain William felt the same. After all, he already gave the Martells Ser Armory Lorch and given the glare he was sending to the Mountain, he was likely planning to deliver on the promise he made all those years ago when they arrived in Sunspear before heading to the Summer Isles.

At the very least, the Prince was not without protection other than his sworn shield, Ser Arthur Dayne. Thoros of Myr, Beric Dondarrion, Oberyn Martell, Garlan Tyrell, Smalljon Umber and Harion Karstark would come to his aid if needed although he would have liked some insurance with Hercules and his friends helping. Perhaps he should have pushed the issue more but there was nothing they could do about it now.

[Trumpets Fanfare & Festive music]

The crowd cheered in jubilation while the nobles were more composed and stuck to applause. The orator for the melee stood up on a podium elevated a little higher on the royal stands so that everyone could see him.

"HAIL! HAIL TO YOU ALL! Good morrow, citizens of the realm! The commencement of the Grand Melee is about to begin! 400 combatants have entered the grand arena but only one shall be named its champion!" His announcement came with a fervor of jubilation as everyone in the arena let the cheers of the crowd soak in. "Defeat comes from surrender or expulsion from the arena! The Hand of the King has urged that all contestants be warned that while the Grand Melee is a contest of battle and skill, death is met as a last resort and serious consequences will be met to those who seek it out!"

The orators warning was normal for grand affairs like this. The Grand Melee of a tourney and celebration was a contest of arms but not a duel to the death like a trial by combat. Granted in the heat of combat, especially for those that were considering green or inexperienced in real combat, could be lost to the surge of emotions that arise allowing serious injuries or even deaths to take place. In those instances, it was deeply frowned upon and the same here.

'Seems as though Cersei's gambit is putting Uncle Jon on the defensive. That woman is as short-sighted and clueless as ever.' William thought to himself as he could see several gazes aimed in his direction.

The orator looked over at the King and Hand of the King who gave him a nod of affirmation, so he raised his hand high. Everyone in the arena jostled around and tightened their grip on their weapons. Nerves ran high with the fighting about to begin but for William, he settled himself and took a deep breath as he found his center. Nerves and jittering wouldn't help him, and he had plenty of experience with fighting to know what to do. It's gotten him this far and it would be time to show all of Westeros just how far he's come in the years he's been gone.

"BEGIN!"

The orator's command was followed by the cheers of the crowd as all the combatants sprung into action. Many charged forward, meeting their opponents in a clash of steel, wood, and leather while those that knew more were more reserved and put themselves in advantageous positions. William and Ser Arthur were among them as they moved a few paces away from the edge of the arena so they couldn't be rushed and pushed out.

"RAH!"

The first brave soul to charge at the crowned prince made himself known with a battle cry. He charged full force in a poorly cobbled together assortment of cheap iron plates of armor and a helm that didn't fit his head just right. Oddly enough the man was charging with a pike which wasn't exactly the weapon you wanted to use in a close-combat melee with a banner fluttering around the top emblazoned a sigil of two blue towers united by a long bridge on a field of silver grey. It was the sigil of House Frey, and the man charging was likely one of Walder Frey's many children or a nephew or cousin. There were so many in that family it was hard to keep track. Clearly the Frey thought that his brazen charge and long reach of a weapon would give him the chance to secure a victory against the Crown Prince…which it didn't.

William didn't even register the man as a threat but an obstacle to be dealt with and when he got close, he reacted. The Frey man-at-arms charged with pike only for Will to sidestep the attack at the last second with a quick burst of speed honed from years of training. He used Storm's Wrath and parried the pike into the ground which then got stuck, bringing the man to a sudden halt as he lurched forward only for Will to get behind him and push kick him in the back with a great deal of the force. The Frey man was flung forward and fell over the knee-high fencing of the arena and tumbled to the ground, becoming the first combatant eliminated. To finish off the moment, William used his swords to fling the pike out of bounds. Many in the area who witnessed the event, including the smallfolk watching laughed in amusement as it was a very funny moment.

Two more men rushed at William when he was finished both armed with short swords and wooden shields and he fought them off. They wore a combination of a cheap chainmail with leather armor covering the rest of their bodies and tried to attack together. On one shield was the sigil of a black colored hooded man on a grey background, the coat of arms of House Banefort. The other sigil was a purple unicorn on silver, House Brax of Hornvale. Both were Westerland based houses but judging by the state of their armor and weapons they weren't heir apparent of landed knights but just men-at-arms. Their skill was average and there were two of them, but they weren't fighting in synch and their number advantage wasn't enough against William the Conqueror. He fought them both off effortlessly with his two swords, blocking and parrying their attacks and the combatants put up their best efforts with their shields blocking his swords but the Valyrian steel began to chip away at the wood bit by bit.

Ser Arthur Dayne used his two swords and was fighting off against a four men at once. Moving with quick precision, skill, and a clear awareness of his surroundings that could only be achieved by the Sword of the Morning, the smallfolk and nobles alike were given a sight that few had seen in a long time. Ser Arthur funneled his four opponents in front of him to keep them within his sight and aid in his defense. His legendary great sword Dawn in his right hand with a spare bastard sword in his left were akin to the rushing wind of a storm. He was moving them so fast as he easily blocked and parried the onslaught of attacks before countering with his own. Ser Arthur spun his swords around, blocking and deflecting several stabs and cuts from his opponents before making a cut with his right and a thrust with his left. Both were blocked but he then push kicked combatant one to the ground before spinning around and attacking combatant two with a cross chop. Combatant two blocked with his shield but the impact had enough force to knock him back and he unfortunately didn't have steady footing causing him to stumble around until he bumped and tripped over combatant one. Combatant three and four kept attacking but were met with blocks and parries. Ser Arthur blocked an overcut from combatant three and parried a thrust from four before shoulder shoving four in the chest which knocked him back. He then attacked with a thrust which combatant three blocked, but he spun around him and slashed him in the back of the leg before punching him in the back of the neck. Combatant three fell face first into the ground as Ser Arthur Dayne parried a cut from combatant four and knocked him off his feet with a leg trip. Combatant four fell to the ground where Ser Arthur knocked his sword away and placed his sword at his throat, forcing the man to yield. Combatant one and two got back up and charged only for Ser Arthur Dayne to turn and with a double wide slash which they jumped back to dodge before he quickly disarmed the two of them in short work and tripped them to the ground, placing his swords at their necks and they signaled defeat, quickly leaving the grounds of the melee.

William meanwhile cut the wooden shield of one of his attackers in half before spinning around him and elbowing him in the side of the neck which was just covered in leather armor. He staggered from the impact allowing William to jostle him around and throw him into his second opponent. The two stumbled around which gave William the chance to quickly disarm them both and then with several quick cuts, some of their clothing was sliced and his swords were placed at their necks, so they signaled defeat. One knight wearing full steel-plate armor charged at the Prince's flank with a large battle axe. His armor was emblazoned with a golden wreath on a blue shield with a gold border, the sigil of House Algood of the Westerlands. The knight came in with the axe in a powerful double overhanded chop which William parried to the ground and then knocked him out with a spinning hook kick to the face. The man's head was definitely rung as the kick knocked his helmet clean off and he hit the dirt. Another combatant came at him with a hatchet and shield wearing leather armor and no helmet, attacking with several rapid chops. He locked one of the Prince's swords, Wolf's Fang, and shoved him with his shield to pull away the sword and push him back but William countered. He let his sword go but dropped low and grabbed his arm, throwing the man over his hip to the ground. William stomped on his shield arm, pinning it to the ground and placed Storm's Wrath at his throat. He signaled defeat and William quickly picked up his fallen sword and got back into the fight.

With the initial clash of the melee underway, many combatants and participants were knocked out of the fighting area, surrendered and left, or were injured and couldn't continue. The large group of combatants saw some team up to expel others, pushing them past the boundary while others couldn't handle fighting opponents stronger or more skilled than them leading to their defeat. Thoros of Myr, using his flaming sword much to the crowds' delight as he bested fighter after fighter who was brave enough to try their hand at the Priest of R'hllor. The flaming sword wasn't just for distraction as Thoros used it to slice and cut his opponents with the added damage of the heat and flames eliminating many of them. His time with the Prince in Essos confirmed he was a skilled fighter, and he was showing it here. Thoros attacked with several cuts and slashes that his opponent blocked using his shield before blocking a thrust and pushing him back. Thoros kept up his offensive while Beric Dondarrion blocked a sword slash and pushed his opponent back before attacking with his own sword. Garlan Tyrell knocked out another combatant from the ring, from the Stormlands before dodging a heavy two-handed battle axe swing and attacking with a cut from his sword. His opponent blocked and parried before thrusting with the axe head. Garlan parried the axe with his shield and push kicked the man in the chest where he followed up with a lateral slash. The axe-man blocked it with the staff of his axe only for Garlan to quickly bash him in the head with his shield. It stunned his opponent allowing Garlan to follow up with a low swipe of his sword to the leg which injured and tripped up his opponent. Garlan then dodged a sword thrust from his left and parried a cut to the ground before shield bashing his attacker in the face and spinning into a low leg sweep that knocked him on his back, a trick he picked up from William in one of their many sparring sessions.

Oberyn, like his moniker of the Red Viper, was moving with swiftness and agility against his many armored opponents. His speed and agility gave him the advantage over the slower and more heavily armored knights using his spear to deflect and block swords, axes, and parry shields. His quick movement and finesse with his spear made him a deadly combatant and difficult to fight for many. The Dornish style of spear fighting was vastly different from the rest of Westeros, likely a remnant of their old Rhoyne origins as opposed to the Andals and First Men. In the rest of Westeros, spears were exceptionally long weapons and often given to infantry in armies as they provided longer reach, were useful against calvary, an excellent defensive measure when paired with a shield and were often cheaper and easier for most men to use adding to the fact that they could be used as ranged weapons for hunting. They were basic to use and often never used by a single person but used in groups for a shield wall. The Unsullied were a prime example of that as their shield wall and spear usage were part of the reason that made them deadly, but their spears were shorter than the Westeros-style and Oberyn's was even shorter. The spear was the preferred Dornish weapon and the way they used it was very particular. Rather than a simple thrusting weapon the Dornish used the spear for slashing as well and often implementing fast moving spins and twirls to keep their opponent off guard while effectively using its range to keep their opponent back until they found the right moment to strike. An additional advantage to the spear was that with its thrusting power it could penetrate the weaker parts of full plate armor better than a typical sword with the exception being Valyrian steel. If Oberyn put the spear in the right spot it could do more damage in a thrust than a sword and from a greater distance.

Oddly enough, Oberyn either knocked any opponent in his path out of the area or disarmed them and used a dagger to force them to submit. While not exactly odd per say as daggers were often the key weapon when fighting against opponents in armor and a dagger was always on your belt, it was odd that Oberyn has not cut anyone with his spear unless he couldn't risk it. He was saving it for someone in particular. Still, his display of impressive spear-handling drew a lot of attention with his daughters and family cheering for him in the royal stands. Near the edge of the royal stands were Hercules and his group along with Cedric, Missandei, Gendry, and Edric who were keeping their eye on William and Ser Arthur. It was clear that the two were drawing plenty of the combatants, but they were holding them off well enough.

William cut one man across the arm before blocking a slash from his left and kicking his opponent away and striking him in the gut with the pommel of one of his swords. He spun around and parried two swords before slicing both their wielders across the legs and sides. He turned to the left and parried a spear away before deflecting another sword and slicing its user on the back, then sliced another combatant on the shoulder before spinning around and bringing both his swords down in a powerful overhand chop that sliced through the steel sword of his opponent and knocked him to the ground. He ducked low and spun, making several cuts into the legs of three opponents, sending them to the ground in pain before he parried another thrust and pommel struck his attacker in the throat before spinning into a back kick that sent him scrambling backwards into Ser Arthur who in turn slashed him across the chest with his sword. The impact struck him to the ground before Ser Arthur turned and swung both his swords at an attacker who blocked him with his shield, but the impact pushed him onto his back. He blocked and parried the attacks of two men-at-arms when a third rushed him from the side only for William to intervene. He push kicked him in the side and followed up with a leaping lunge. His opponent blocked it with his shield, but Wolf's Fang pierced through the wood like it was made of fabric and sliced into his shoulder before William tripped him onto his back and knocked his sword away. The man surrendered as Ser Arthur finished his two opponents. He looked over at William and the two nodded at one another before they continued on.

Everyone they've defeated and fought were alive though some suffered cuts and slashes that made them unable to continue. William and Ser Arthur were highly skilled, so they knew how to not kill as much as kill. The cuts and slashes many suffered were not fatal but rendered them unable to continue fighting without sustaining serious injuries. With William's Valyrian steel swords, cuts and slashes on plate armor were more effective than if he was using regular steel swords and Ser Arthur's great sword Dawn, while not Valyrian steel was sharp enough.

"Look at him go, Ned." Robert was in awe as he saw his son fighting against three opponents at once and didn't look the least bit troubled or with risk of being outmatched. If anything, his opponents were on their back legs as William pushed the offensive. His attacks were as swift as they were powerful, and ease of movement and clear understanding of what to do that only came from years of training and experience in combat.

Ned stared on in the same wonder as Robert. To him, it was like he got a glimpse into his past years ago when he fought Ser Arthur Dayne at the Tower of Joy. His nephew moved with speed and precision much like Ser Arthur Dayne but mixed with some raw Baratheon power, some Stark ferocity, and a dash of exception skill added in. After all the letters and tales told to him that recounted his nephew's prowess in battle were but words. It was nice to finally see it for himself.

"Yes…he is incredible and still so young." Ned said in amazement.

"He's not even in his prime and already he's showing them up! Imagine what he will be in a few years when he's king! HA-HA! Best them, William!" Robert cheered in jubilation.

William had knocked out two more combatants, bringing his count past twenty. He looked up at his father and nodded before continuing on. The Grand Melee had just begun and none of them knew how it would end but one thing was for certain.

It would be a bloody one.

Line Break xxxxx

An hour later…

An hour had passed since the Grand Melee's commencement, and it was nearing its end. From the over 400 combatants who entered the melee less than half remained, likely only one hundred left. The initial rapid and frenetic action of the melee's beginning had slowly ebbed away and turned into a more moderate, even pacing between combatants. People often forget that a fight was not like a horse race where you had to be the fastest and outrace everyone to win. It was more like a game of cyvasse, a game of strategy. You had to weigh your strengths against the strengths of your opponent whether it was speed, power, age, or skill. In this case, a grand melee was the gameboard with hundreds of armed combatants being your opponents. If you fought too fast and too quickly than you risked gassing yourself out, which happened to many who went up against those who were more reserved or better trained their endurance. It now became a slow tug of a rope from one end to another as everyone chose their opponents more wisely. With the fighting having been going on for so long, there were many unofficial interludes with many stepping back from others to catch their breath and rest momentarily before getting back in. William was among them and after a quick momentary respite he quickly found himself with another opponent.

He quickly sidestepped a morning star as the heavy spiked ball slammed into the dirt of his previous spot before taking a large step back to dodge its heavy swing. Its user used the momentum from the heavy swing to spin around into another swipe that William dodged and countered with several thrusts and cuts that were blocked with a shield. Unlike his previous opponents who just let the shield take the cuts and slashes which led to them being destroyed quickly, his new combatant was smart enough to use the shield to parry and deflect, minimizing the damage it took from the Valyrian steel swords. His house sigil adorned the shield, six white seashells on sand. This was the sigil of House Westerling of the Crag, a noble house in the Northern Westerlands. The combatant he was facing was either a knight or a son of the noble house judging by the high-quality and full steel-plate armor he was wearing.

After his last thrust, his combatant swung his morning star, so William dodged yet again. With just two swords, William would need to focus on evasion against a morning star. It's unpredictability made it difficult to block with a shield let alone a sword and if he wasn't careful it could get hooked on the chain. William continued to back up, forcing his combatant to come to him but instead of rushing he was taking focused, measured steps forward to not be caught off guard. Clearly this man was more skilled than most. He made a few more swings with his morning star and when he came in with an angled overhead swing, William raised his sword to deflect it and spun inside his flank before swiping with his other sword. His combatant raised his shield to parry but then a follow up slash forced the shield to the side. William made a thrust, but his opponent managed to bring his shield back in time to deflect. He made a swing with his morning star, but Will ducked and spun around him yet again and sliced him across the lower back. A narrow slice into the armor but not enough to take him out as the combatant refocused, raising his shield to block a push kick before shoving the prince back. The prince caught his footing as the two stalked around one another, looking for their next opening.

William made the next move, attacking with several quick thrusts that his opponent blocked with his shield or deflected with his mace before he spun to his knees and made several quick cuts at his legs. His opponent blocked them all with his shield only for Will to kick out his legs from underneath him. He fell to his back as William quickly did a kip-up back to his feet, flipped one of his swords into a reverse-grip and stabbed down with it. His opponent rolled to the side and quickly got back to his knees before swinging his morning star. William stabbed his sword into the ground to block which in turn made the spiked ball and part of the chain wrap around it, trapping the weapon. With a swing of his other sword, he sliced through the chain and then stabbed at his opponent who raised his shield only for the blade to pierce through, barely missing his arm and pinning it across his body. Will pushed down with his foot, using his weight to keep him there before placing his other sword against the man's neck.

"I yield. Well fought, my prince."

William pulled both his swords away and got off his body, allowing the man to sit up when he saw a hand being held out for him. He took it and William helped him back to his feet as there was a small round of applause from the great fight. This bout was the only one of the prince's that lasted more than several moments, and the opponent was very skilled.

"Your name?" William asked and the man removed his helm, revealing himself to be a bald man with brown eyes and a brown beard on his face. He was older than the prince by a few years, likely around the same age as Willas Tyrell, twenty and one, give or take a few years.

"Harrold Westerling, my prince."

"Well fought, Harrold Westerling." Will shook his hand before he departed. Being of House Westerling, the man was likely named in honor of his Ser Harrold Westerling, legendary knight and head of the King's Guard during the reign of Viserys the first before the breakout of the Dance of Dragons. Given the events of the Targaryen civil war, there were some conflicting events about everything that happened exactly as it happened but one thing that wasn't debating was the great warrior Harrold Westerling was. If this brief encounter was an indication than it seems his descendent was on his way. He clearly was well trained, and he lasted longer than the rest, which was a good sign and his demeanor indicated no outright hostility but mutual respect. A man who understood he lost in a fair fight indicating that he was one of the only Westerland combatants in the melee who clearly wasn't doing the bidding of Cersei. Perhaps there was a relationship to cultivate there.

Harrold Westerling left the ring, so William took several deep breaths to calm himself as he looked around the fighting area. His fight with Harrold Westerling was the only one that occurred in that moment and with it over a silent hush settled over the area from the crowd of nobles and smallfolk alike. All the other combatants had been using the time he fought to catch some much-needed respite, albeit temporarily. With that done the fighting would soon continue and with the numbers so low it was evident that those remaining had gravitated towards one of two sides. Those with the prince were those that had fought beside him before or were allies. Ser Arthur Dayne, Garlan Tyrell, Thoros of Myr, Beric Dondarrion, Smalljon Umber, Harion Karstark, Oberyn Martell, and a few of the Northern and Stormland combatants who weren't eliminated. The rest were sided with the Mountain, many of them Westerlanders but a few from the Riverlands and Vale or were hedge knights and sellswords in the melee for the coin. Unofficial sides had been set for this melee's finale with either the prince and his allies winning or the Mountain claiming victory. He was the one with the highest victory count having knocked out the most combatants or made them forfeit. Surprisingly he had killed no one outright but many suspects that his various victims were either near death or severely injured. A few more moments of respite passed as William looked at the men around him. No words were said but their eyes said it all. They were with him.

Seeing this as the end, William removed his helmet from his head and tossed it aside, drawing looks and murmurs of worry. The prince willingly tossed aside protection that could prevent serious injury or death, putting him at that much risk.

"I've been dying to take that thing off since this began. If I'm going to die, I might as well die comfortable." All William did was crack his neck and roll his shoulders before pointing one of his swords at the Mountain and those with him. "If any of you wish to surrender, do so now before this gets ugly."

"Fuck you!" The Mountain lowered his visor and lifted up his great sword. The men around him charged so William and his men did the same and they met in the middle for the final clash of this melee.

William sidestepped a charge and sliced his opponent in the back before parrying a sword from his left and cutting him across the chest. He blocked another sword before spinning around his opponent's back and elbowing him in the back of the neck while slicing him across the back of the legs and then turned into a spinning cut across another opponent's stomach. They were all non-lethal cuts and slashes but hurt tremendously and rendered them unable to continue so William continued on. Another trio came at him, so he blocked and deflected an overhead slash to his left and sliced his opponent across the chest, before parrying an attack from the right and stabbing his opponent in the thigh finishing him off with a knee to the face. Another attacker came in with a mace and several heavy swings that William ducked or dodged before blocking a swing from his left and parrying it to his right allowing him to pommel strike his attacker in the gut. He followed that up with a slice across his chest and right leg when he quickly backed up to dodge a heavy club swing and then leaned backed to dodge a sword swung too close to his neck. He blocked and parried the club, slicing its user on the shoulder and then blocking the sword attacker before taking him and the club user out with a riposte that sliced them across the chest and shoulders. They fell to the ground in pain while Will walked on.

Both the smallfolk and nobles alike had been entranced by the Prince's fighting skill as clearly his training and tutelage under Ser Arthur Dayne, the Sword of the Morning, had served him well. Now it seemed as though the stories of the prince's prowess in battle were not exaggerations by bards and traveling merchants but made a reality to them now. Not only was the Grand Melee showing off the prince's great skill, but it also showed off how well he and Ser Arthur Dayne worked together. The two were in sync without even having to speak and given their similar fighting styles they were like mirror images of one another although the prince was much faster, had greater agility and seemed to implement some more hand-to-hand combat techniques. But both had a great understanding of their surroundings and were capable of fighting several men at once with ease and had been backing up the other in the melee. The kind of coordination, innate understanding, and trust was something that only years of training and fighting side by side could develop. It was a festival for the eyes with many looking on in awe. The noble lords were in shock as they were seeing skill that was well above and beyond even some of their best knights could handle with some of them already knocked out of the Grand Melee.

The Sand Snakes Obara, Nymeria, and Tyene along with Ellaria Sand all smiled in delight as they were among a few who knew of the prince's skill and delighted in seeing him defeat combatant after combatant with quick succession. None seemed to give him much trouble, so they were confident if he didn't win he would at least be one of the last combatants left standing as they hoped Oberyn would win. And with the melee nearing its end, they all felt they were one step closer to seeing the Mountain die. They and Doran Martell had a feeling that the Mountain would not leave the melee alive today.

Margaery Tyrell was of a similar mind as she saw the prince's exceptional skill with his swords. She thought she had seen a good deal of his skill in the spars with her brother Garlan and then King Robert but clearly he was holding back then. Now he wasn't and while none of the men he fought were dead she imagined it wouldn't have been hard for him. Her Grandmother Olena was thinking much like her granddaughter, now understanding her grandson Garlan's deep admiration for the prince. Clearly, the prince was a great warrior, perhaps even greater than his father with him being trained by the Sword of the Morning. Although she imagined it helped that he was using two Valyrian steel swords which could cut through steel plate armor like it was cloth. Any house would be lucky to have a Valyrian steel sword and the prince had three. Two of his own design from what Garlan told her came to be after the prince paid a visit to Volantis and now a third with the latter being the legendary sword of Aegon the Conqueror. Perhaps he may be amendable to selling one of them, but it would likely cost a lot…a lot of gold. Or perhaps be a gift to his lady wife and their future children? As for Loras, all he could do was look upon the spectacle in amazement with a small twinge in the back of his head that he was grateful for not being there. He much preferred the joust to the melee.

Tyrion watched from the stands as he witnessed the prince moving from opponent to opponent with ease. Every single attacker who came at him was quickly felled and removed from the Grand Melee. If any of them had seen what he had seen than they'd know what folly this was. A quick glance over his shoulder and Tyrion spotted his father, Tywin, looking on with stoic gaze. To others, it portrayed nothing but stone-faced stoicism but to a few who knew better, Tyrion being one of them, Tywin might as well have been staring in awe. He wasn't the only one as Jaime's gaze showed he was impressed with what he was seeing. Perhaps it was seeing Ser Arthur Dayne in combat once again that brought him back to a simpler time when he fought beside him against the Kingswood Brotherhood during the reign of the Mad King. And then there was Cersei and her brat Joffrey. The two were engaged in the spectacle of the melee but not for the same reasons as most others. They wanted to see William injured or dead and with the Mountain in the mix and so few combatants left, that was looking to be coming a reality. Tyrion knew William was a great warrior but even he feared what would happen if he faced the Mountain and his gut told him that it wouldn't be pretty.

Speaking of the Mountain, Gregor Clegane knocked another combatant aside with his great sword before he saw Prince William fighting against a few Westerland fighters, so he marched over to do what he was paid to do. Several paces forward he quickly blocked a spear thrust from his right and parried it away before attacking with a thrust that was deflected. His attacker stepped back to get some ground and it was Oberyn Martell. The much-awaited confrontation of the Red Viper and the Mountain that Rides. Everyone in the royal stands and among the small folk knew that this was going to get heated.

"Do you know who I am?" Oberyn asked.

"Some dead man!" Gregor swiped with his sword but missed as Oberyn kept his distance and then parried another swipe with his spear.

"I am the brother of Elia Martell. And do you know why I am here today? For you." Oberyn moved his spear with speed and precious, making a cut at Gregor's head which was blocked but his follow up cuts were too fast for the large man to block in time. He cut him twice, once on the chest and the second on the shoulder but with the heavy steel armor he was wearing Oberyn might as well have used a wooden sparring sword. Gregor came in with a wide slash, but Oberyn jumped back and kept his distance. "I'm going to hear you confess before this is over. You raped my sister, you murdered her, you killed her children. Say it now and we can make this quick."

Gregor Clegane just growled and charged forward with a thrust and Oberyn parried up and attacked with a cut to the head that was blocked. Gregor pushed his spear down and then blocked a low cut aimed at his legs before parrying it up and around him which Oberyn parried back up and hit him in the back of his helmet with the butt of his spear, knocking it off.

"Say it!" Oberyn demanded but Gregor just kept fighting. He attacked with brute force and power coming in with swing after swing, but Oberyn parried, deflected, and dodged. Oberyn used his greater agility and reach of his spear to keep Gregor from getting too close. "You murdered her! You raped her! You killed her children!"

Oberyn backed up, thrusting his spear forward with every step with Gregor blocking before making a thrust at his chest plate but like before it couldn't penetrate the steel. Gregor pushed his spear aside and kicked him to the ground. Oberyn responded with a lateral spear swings and flourishes before making a thrust at Gregor's side only for the large man to side step and cut the spear in half with one swing. He knocked the other half of spear out of Oberyn's hand, knocking him back a bit which made many worry. Gregor came in with a low sweeping slash to cut Oberyn's legs out from underneath him, but the Dornishman side flipped over and rolled to the side for safety, quickly picking up two swords that were left behind on the ground. If this were any regular fight his squire would gift him another spear, but it wasn't, so he had to make do with what he had but now he was at a disadvantage without the longer reach of his spear.

William was fighting against an opponent using a large Warhammer, not as big as his fathers but definitely a weapon that wasn't to be messed with. William relied mostly on dodging and when the time was right, he would act. The man's Warhammer knocked Storm's Wrath out of William's hand but when he went in for another lateral swing, Will spun under it and tripped the man onto his front before placing the tip of Wolf's Fang against his neck. The man quickly surrendered so William marched over to grab his other sword when he was engaged yet again. Will blocked a sword thrust and pushed his opponent's sword arm up over his head in an uncomfortable angle before he kneed him in the ground. A quick spin and he elbowed another combatant in the jaw, knocking him out before tripping both of them onto their backs and placing his sword at their necks.

They quickly surrendered when William saw Oberyn fighting the Mountain using two swords instead of his spear. The man was doing admirably but seemed to be struggling without the longer ranger and familiarity his spear providing. Knowing he would need help he rushed over to provide it but was met with many fighters in his way. He parried a sword to his right and kicked his attacker away before blocking a sword strike from his left and grabbing his opponent's arm and holding it in place. With his grip he pulled the man with him and used his sword to block and parry an attack from behind before slashing him across the chest and then cutting another across the legs. An elbow to the face knocked back the man Will was holding, then he parried a sword thrust to the stomach and attacked with an overhead swing that the man blocked but the force knocked him to the ground. The man he had grabbed and elbowed in the face rushed back at him, but Will blocked and parried his sword before slashing him across the chest and thighs. William stomped onto the fallen sword of the other attacker, preventing him from grabbing it and kicking him in the face.

Another man came at him with an axe, but he parried and slashed him across the back. Three men charged at him at once, all coming in with overhead swings, so William rolled to the side and dodged them before landing a sliding side kick at one of them. He stumbled backward and hit the ground as Will pushed the offensive attacking his two opponents with quick cuts and slashes that they had trouble keeping up with. Even with one sword, William was too fast for them and soon enough he cut one across the left shoulder and then the other in the stomach. The man he kicked got back up and charged but Will blocked and grabbed his sword arm before elbowing him in the neck, kneeing him in the groin and then struck him in the back of the neck with his sword pommel, knocking him out.

Three more men charged at him from the front and Will was quick to meet their attacks with cuts and slashes while not being pushed back. He was a demon with a sword as he cut one man across the chest, parried the axe of the second and pushed him away before blocking a thrust from the third and kicking him back. He turned to his left and blocked a sword cut from a fourth man, then grabbed his arm and jostled him around into the path of the second and third man before pushing them all back and spinning into a sword flourish. His spun his sword up and around his body before bringing it down in a similar manner, cutting his three attackers all over their bodies. They were injured but not dead and more importantly out of the way as Will kept moving towards the Mountain.

Oberyn ducked, side stepped, and dodged all of Gregor's sword swings and cuts while trying to attack with his own. He cut and slashed the Mountain all over, but the swords were nothing to full steel plate armor. The Mountain kept Oberyn from attacking anywhere weak doing his best to keep the Dornishman in front of him. Without his spear for distance, Oberyn had to risk getting in close to make his attacks. His cuts and slashes on his armor were nothing to the massive man, only irritations and he forced Oberyn back when he made attempts at his sides or legs. Clearly the Red Viper was struggling but he wouldn't give up. Oberyn ducked and slipped into the Mountain's right side after avoiding a sword thrust and slashed him in the side, managing to nick him near the ribs and under the armpit area where the gap of the armor was. He followed that up with a cut on the back of the legs but with the thicker leg greaves he wore and angle, it only sliced deep enough to penetrate the leather but not touch the skin. Gregor shoved Oberyn and while he stumbled back he came in with a swipe of his sword. Oberyn raised his swords to block but the force knocked them out of his hands and was then hit with a powerful kick to the sternum that sent him flying back.

Oberyn coughed up a lung and turned to the side, spitting up some blood in his mouth as that kick was powerful enough that it had to break a rib if not two and fractured a few more if not severely bruised them. The Mountain marched towards Oberyn who crawled back, scrambling for any kind of weapon to defend himself. He saw a hatchet nearby so he reached over to pick it up, his fingers just edging against the handle and in a few more moments he would have it, but he didn't have that time. The Mountain raised his sword up and brought it down with the full intent of cutting Oberyn in half.

"NO!" Ellaria and the Sand Snakes screamed in horror as the blade came down. Oberyn had shut his eyes in embrace of the inevitable with his last thoughts being of his lover, his daughters, and his sister Elia.

[Metallic clang and ringing]

But the moment never came. Oberyn opened his eyes to see a familiar snow blue colored sword inches from his face stopping an even larger one from bisecting him down the middle. To everyone's amazement, including the Mountain, Prince William Baratheon had stopped his attack before it could kill. He used Wolf's Fang to block Gregor's great sword from bisecting Oberyn and despite it's larger size and the power behind it, it went against Valyrian steel resulting in a small chip in the blade from where they met. William wasn't as strong as the Mountain with the trembling of the blade and strain on the prince's face being evidence of that, but his blade had come in at an angle with the tip plunged into the ground. Much like the pike that tried to skewer the prince in the beginning of the melee, the sword stuck into the ground like a post providing a great deal of support to aid in the prince's save.

Seeing his life saved and not wanting to risk the blades getting closer, Oberyn capitalized on the moment William gave him and delivered a kick to the groin of the Mountain.

"ARGH!"

That momentary pain loosened the hold the Mountain had allowing William to push his blade up and away from Oberyn before jumping and knocking him back with a drop kick to the chest. The Mountain stumbled back from the hit but managed to stay upright despite the pain in his groin while William did a kip-up back to his feet and helped Oberyn up as well.

"I got this." William assured him as he stepped forward and held Wolf's Fang at the ready. By now, the rest of the fighting in the melee had ceased as everyone wanted to watch a fight between the prince and the Mountain. Ser Arthur Dayne was nearby and was ready to intervene if he needed to. The smallfolk were jittering with anticipation as this kind of matchup was something that birthed legends. The Mountain that Rides and William the Conqueror. Many were on the edge of their seats, none more so than Queen Cersei and Joffrey. Both had looks of demented glee, seeing their dream moments come ever so closer to being realized. Joffrey in seeing his bastard older brother get what he deserves after threatening him and Cersei in seeing him removed from this world. Tywin kept his usual stoic gaze but inside he was a turmoil of contrasting emotions. He had to admit that with the prince dead, Joffrey, his daughter's son would be heir and in this melee, that was a possibility though it would likely cost him Ser Gregor. On the other hand, this was such a short-sighted move by his daughter that it could end up costing the Lannisters everything. He would love nothing more than to end things here, but he was in no position to.

Robert's glee quickly grew to concern. Despite the many glasses of wine that kept him in a good mood while he watched the melee, seeing his son protect Oberyn Martell and now going to fight the Mountain gave him the most worry he has ever had since he received the raven that William was poisoned and nearly assassinated back in Yunkai. William was a fantastic warrior as this melee proved but this was the Mountain, a different beast entirely and it was clear that the Mountain would have killed Oberyn so he might do the same thing to William, consequences be damned. Ned shared the same look of worry along with Jon and all three would be ready and were prepared to intervene if needed. Robert glanced over at Ser Barristan and no words needed to be said to convey what may come to pass. Ser Barristan tightened his grip on his sword and walked over to Ser Arys Oakheart who was standing nearby. After speaking a few words, Ser Arys Oakheart left to complete his task. Also nearby were Hercules and the others of William's party who were looking on in worry.

"Atalanta…prepare a shot." Hercules told her and the archer pulled out a few arrows from her quiver and readied one on the drawstring, ready to shoot the second she was given the clear.

Back in the melee grounds, all the fighting had ceased with both sides now watching what would be the fight between William the Conqueror and the Mountain that Rides. Oberyn got back to his feet and moved to the side as Gregor Clegane focused on his target, the crown prince and so he charged, aiming to end this quickly. He charged forward with a thrust that the prince parried to the left before spinning to the right and making several quick cuts before taking some steps away to get some distance.

Gregor turned around and swung his sword in a wide lateral cut that William ducked under and then turned into an upward slice that nearly nicked him in the face. Gregor took a few steps back when his gaze drifted downward and saw a large cut down his chest plate from about the sternum and up from where William's sword had made contact. He then glanced down at his left and saw parts of his leather skirting had been cut off along with more cuts into his steel armor. No steel blade would have made such perfect cuts, but William was using Valyrian steel.

"I've heard much about the infamous Mountain that Rides. Big, tall, strong, and monstrous…a figure that made men tremble in fear." Will twirled and spun his blade around, showing off some finesse and portraying apathy for the simple-minded Clegane. "I'll admit I'm cautious but on the inside I'm laughing. I've often heard that men with big weapons are often compensating for something. Given the size and length of your sword…clearly you must be doing so for a very…short…inadequacy."

"RAHH!"

The Mountain charged in anger which is exactly what Will wanted as someone attacking with anger was more likely to make a mistake and with a more simple-minded monster like the Mountain, the odds only increased.

Duck. Side step. Dodge. Parry left. Back away. Parry right. Duck. Dodge. Thrust. Cut. Parry right. Slash left. Parry left. Slash right. Parry right.

Gregor Clegane was a large man of rage as he attacked without thought to anything other than killing his target only said target kept dodging and make a few cuts and slices every now and then but none of those attacks came close to his chest or face. Gregor came in with another lateral cut that the prince ducked under and sliced the back of his right arm, cutting his light steel forearm bracer in half. Gregor came back around with an overhand chop only for Will to dodge to the left and slice his other forearm guard. Will leaned back and dodged a sword slash at his head before spinning to his left to dodge an overhand chop, quickly attacking with angled sword slash that Gregor blocked and parried into his own two-handed chop. Will managed to block and deflect while backing up to ease up the strain his arms had with his defense.

Will took a deep breath while Gregor Clegane was breathing heavily, showing that the former was more adept at keeping his calm and minimizing wasted movements to ease his endurance against the larger man who expended more energy with each attack. Gregor made the next move, attacking with a rising slash and then an overhand chop that William dodged before he attacked with several quick slashes of his own, cutting into Gregor's armor. He moved his head to avoid a thrust and spun around to avoid the follow up stab before spinning to the right and slashing Clegane against his left thigh and then a follow up rising cut near ribs. William turned around in time to see Gregor push kick him in the chest and he was knocked back.

The crowd got worried, and many shifted in their seats in nerves as they saw William hit the ground only to their surprise they saw Gregor halt his advance. He put his hand to his left leg which he used in the kick and when he removed it he saw it was dripping with blood and there was even more dripping from his side. William managed to cut through the steel greaves and sliced him in the side where there was gap in his armor. It wasn't excessive like an artery was cut but noticeable. William did a kip-up back to his feet with the tip of Wolf's Fang having blood on it. Gregor growled in anger and ripped off the cut leg greave since it was just going to get in the way now.

"You fucking bastard!" Gregor charged, pushing through and ignoring the pain in his leg and came in with an overhead chop that Will dodged to the right and made a quick cut to his left arm. William quickly blocked Gregor's lateral swipe with his sword, bracing it with his forearm bracer and the Valyrian steel spikes dug into the blade, trapping it. His only move when the sword was so close but that ended up being a mistake as Gregor grabbed him by the throat with his left hand, fully intending to squeeze the life out of him.

Acting quickly before he could snap his neck, William let go of his sword and grabbed Gregor's arm. He activated one hidden blade and stabbed it in Gregor's right forearm, which was holding his sword, forcing him to let go and ease up on the tension against his other hand. This allowed him to use both to hold onto Gregor's arm before jumping up and wrapping his legs around his shoulders and neck. The momentum of his fall and weight pulled Gregor forward and William took him to the ground, quickly trapping his left arm with his legs and arms while putting pressure on Gregor's head. William kept up the hold, forcing Gregor's arm taut so it hurt and was trying to break it. Everyone was in awe as the prince managed to take Gregor Clegane to the ground through some elaborate grappling technique, a feat thought impossible unless it was against someone of equal size and stature. To many on the Prince's side, it looked like he could have this win and to speed that up, William activated his hidden blade and stabbed Gregor in the left arm he was holding.

"ARGHH!"

"Confess your crimes! Submit and yield!" William warned him but was unaware of the anger and rage that was boiling inside the Clegane which had just reached its breaking point.

"Die, you worthless piece of shit!"

With pure brute force, Gregor lifted up the arm the prince was holding onto and hurled the prince away with incredible strength. William flew across the grand melee ground, tumbling into the dirt. He pushed himself back up as Ser Gregor got back to his feet and grab Wolf's Fang. "I'm gonna kill you with your own sword you fucking bastard!" Gregor charged so William quickly picked up the nearest weapons which were a hatchet and sword to meet him head on. He rushed forward intending to slip past Gregor's guard, but the Mountain came in with a surprisingly fast swipe. William raised the sword and hatchet to block which they did but the impact sent him sprawling to the ground. The Mountain stalked over to his prey and brought Wolf's Fang down in a powerful two-handed chop. William rolled to the side and dodged, seeing his sword dig into the ground and quickly stabbed Clegane through his right thigh with a sword.

"ARGH!" Gregor backhanded William across the face, knocking him face first into the dirt before he pulled the sword out like it was nothing. Either the blade didn't hit any vital arteries, or the Mountain was too consumed with rage to care. William's left cheek and jaw were in pain, but he pressed through and got back to his feet. He quickly dodged a sword cut to the back of the head and sliced Gregor in the chest plate with the hatchet but against the solid steel plate it did nothing. He made several more powerful strikes, hoping to breach a weak point only for Gregor to elbow him back and then turn into a lateral cut. William managed to deflect it with the hatchet but then Gregor came in with another powerful cut that chopped the axe head off the hatchet and sent him tumbling to the ground.

William got back up and came in with the hatchet handle, aiming to drive it into Gregor's neck but he grabbed it with his left hand and headbutted him in the face. William stumbled back, a bit dazed as Gregor walked over, grabbed him by collar and held Wolf's Fang to his neck.

"Clegane! Stand down!" King Robert shot to his feet.

"Ser Gregor! Enough!" Jon Arryn added as several Kingsguard had passed through Grand Melee fencing and were about to enter the actual grounds to stop him. Atalanta pulled the string of her bow back and took aim as Ser Arthur was ready to rush forward when his gaze locked with William's. The prince's face was bloody, but he sent a wink to Ser Arthur. Joffrey looked on in glee as did Cersei as they had everything they wanted.

Whether it was the adrenaline of battle or his now own personal desire to kill the prince Clegane didn't care about the consequences. If he were to die today, he would take the prince with him.

"I killed Elia Martell! I raped her! I killed her children! And now, I'll kill you! I just wish I could have raped your whore mother too!" Gregor reared his right arm back to cut the prince's throat—

[Shing]

In the blink of an eye, Gregor Clegane's arms dangled at his side letting the prince and his Valyrian steel sword go before slumping down to his knees, revealing the Prince had stabbed him in the face with something attached to his left wrist. In the split second before the Mountain killed him, William activated his hidden blade and drove it through left eye. He pulled the blade free of Ser Gregor's head before picking up Wolf's Fang. He held it with two hands and brought it back for one final move.

"AAHHH!"

With one swing of his Valyrian steel sword, William decapitated Ser Gregor Clegane, The Mountain that Rides, the most dangerous man in Westeros and avenged his many victims. Elia Martell, Aegon and Rhaenys Targaryen and countless others who were victims of his savagery and the many more would-be victims could rest easy. Ser Gregor's head tumbled to the side while his body fell backward, staining the ground with blood. Like the tension of a bow being released, everyone in attendance could breathe easier knowing that the prince was not dead and instead his would-be killer was the dead one.

William took several deep breaths before he bellowed… "WHO ELSE WANTS SOME?!"

His declaration rang out over the area, an open invitation and a threat to any who would try to take his life. If they tried…they would meet the same fate as Ser Gregor Clegane. In that moment, everyone in the Grand Melee dropped their weapons and bent the knee, surrendering and effectively ending the event. Ser Arthur Dayne had the biggest smile on his face as he marched over and raised the prince's left hand up high.

"Citizens of the realm…the winner of the Grand Melee! Prince William of the House Baratheon, the Mountain Slayer!" Ser Arthur Dayne announced.

[Deafening cheers and applause]

The crowd of smallfolk erupted like a volcano, their cheers and screams so loud that they echoed out into King's Landing and even further into Blackwater Bay. The nobles in the royal stands stood to their feet and applauded the absolute spectacle that they had witnessed and its unexpected end. It would surely be something that many would talk about for a long time. Robert, Ned, and Jon Arryn breathed sighs of relief that William was alive. While Ser Gregor's death was an unfortunate accident, given the circumstances and his attempt to kill the crowned prince, even when warned, warranted an exception. Especially with the remark he made about William's mother and Robert's beloved Lyanna.

Ned looked at his nephew and had the biggest smile of relief mixed with pride. He truly was something special and he was glad to have been given a small glimpse of that. Robert was all smiles as he raised his cup at his son and cheered in jubilation. Joffrey was grumbling in annoyance and Cersei was hiding her look of hatred and disdain. She was so close. He was almost dead if Ser Gregor hadn't been an idiot and boasted, the bastard would be no more. Her nails dug into the arms of her chair and the wood strained under her grip. She was of the minority in the royal stands as everyone else were glad the prince was safe. Margaery Tyrell especially along with Tyene and Nymeria Sand though with them and Obara, it was more because he saved their father. Even Joffrey's sworn shield, Sandor Clegane had a smile come to his face with the death of his brother. He wasn't going to miss the bastard. He doubted anyone would.

Oberyn walked over, staring down at the body of Gregor Clegane, the object of his vengeance for so long. The man who raped and murdered his sister and for so long the idea of killing him had filled his heart ever since that fateful day. The man confessed and in doing so, his life came to an end at the hand of William who he was about to kill. He should be mad that he didn't get to kill Clegane himself, but the prince did save him from being killed as well.

"I'm sorry, Oberyn." Will told him. "I know you wanted to kill him yourself."

"I did…for so long, I wanted him dead. Dead at my hands for what he did to my sister." Oberyn looked up at William and his expression of contentment faded into relief. "But you saved my life as well."

"Of course. Anything for a friend." William told him.

Oberyn let that sink in. Anything for a friend. The prince saved his life, nearly risking his own to protect him and in doing so avenged Elia and her children. "Anything for a friend. Thank you." Oberyn pulled him in for a hug, making William hiss out in pain.

"Gah…" William shirked back and held his side.

"Sorry." Oberyn and Ser Arthur got on both sides and supported him as they helped him out to get tended to by Cedric. William looked up in the stands at Doran Martell who had the biggest face of relief and tears of joy. His sister was avenged. Prince William kept his promise from all those years ago and he delivered.

William was brought to Cedric where he was checked over and despite the momentous events of the Grand Melee, he excused himself from the feast that night to rest and heal.

Line Break xxxxx

It was the next day of the tourney festivities which was actually a designated rest day. After the excitement of the Grand Melee, a day of rest was assigned to allow the combatants to heal from any injuries they might have and give those in the final rounds of the Joust some additional time to prepare. With it being a rest day, many would likely just enjoy the various activities of the celebration. Bards and bands played music, dancers and performers enthralled their audience, shows and plays were put on with many new pieces and songs inspired by the spectacle of the Grand Melee all with the accompaniment of food and wine. William the Conqueror, the crowned prince defeated the Mountain that Rides and earned a new moniker, the Mountain Slayer.

Many were still talking about the epic battle and soon with the aid of traveling merchants, bards, and the returning lords and nobles it wouldn't be long before the rest of the continent were told of this tale. Of how the monstrous Mountain that Rides in a fever of battle-induced madness tried to kill Prince Oberyn Martell until Prince William Baratheon intervened. When the Mountain then tried to kill him, Prince William stabbed him through the eye and took off his head. After the Grand Melee concluded and William was taken to his room to rest and be tended to by Cedric Angar, Cersei immediately made a fuss. She felt that the prince didn't deserve the victor title of the Grand Melee and should be punished for killing Ser Gregor Clegane. She was the only one and it was just her blowing out hot air. No one on the Small Council agreed with her complaint since it was blatantly obvious that Ser Gregor would have killed Prince Oberyn had William not intervened and despite his several warnings he would have killed Prince William, so it was a justified death. No one can deny that. Even if William had died, Robert would have had Ser Gregor killed for that and for the comment about Lyanna Stark. Even Tywin Lannister disavowed the actions of Gregor Clegane, his own bannerman, and had no qualms or issues with what happened. Unbeknownst to anyone, Tywin viciously scolded and berated his daughter in the privacy of her own chambers. Her actions were idiotic, short-sighted, and just cost him gold, one of his best bannerman/attack dogs, and his standing amongst the other lords and nobles. While a lion wouldn't normally concern himself with the opinions of the sheep, if it ruined his standing with a potentially powerful enemy than it was a concern. What happened at the melee either conveyed that Tywin Lannister couldn't control his own bannermen or he purposely put the Mountain in the event in the hopes he would kill someone. Either way, Tywin's berating of Cersei pretty much rendered her to be absent from the remainder of the festivities which would include the feasts and the final joust. Image be damned because he wasn't going to have her out there until he could fix things with the crown prince.

And where was the crown prince during the start of this day of rest in the tourney? Sleeping.

After getting examined and tended to by Cedric Angar, just him despite the protests of Jon Arryn and Grand Maester Pycelle, he went to bed to rest. William trusted his life and care to Cedric who was more than knowledgeable to tend to him. William's visible wounds like the cuts on his face were easy enough to deal with and would be fine in a few days. The more immediate concern were being the possible internal injuries such as his ribs. A few ribs were very badly bruised with one or two possibly fractured along with some heavy bruising in his arms and legs as well. Basically, the prince was sore all over. Some soothing creams, medicinal teas, and rest would be the best thing for him and ensuring that his ribs were wrapped to keep them in place was key. They didn't want a fracture to turn into a break and become something serious. The prince was lucky to escape the fight with what could be considered lucky wounds when other men who went against him suffered far worse, including Prince Oberyn who had several broken ribs. Cedric guessed it was due to William's greater speed allowing him to avoid being hit as much and his training and fighting with Hercules giving his body experience and toughening in dealing with someone far stronger than him. So, after a hot bath and a final wrapping of bandages with medicinal ointment and creams applied, he went to bed and fell asleep early. The fact that the prince slept through the night without difficulty was a good sign, so they didn't disturb him and although his presence was missed during the feast that night no one, not even Robert, held it against him when he didn't show.

It was mid-morning now and the prince was still asleep. The curtains and shades in his room were pulled taut against their openings so no light could seep through and ruin his sleep. Orys, the prince's eagle, had stood watchful guard in his quarters with Ser Arthur Dayne, Ser Arys Oakheart, along with Hercules and the others keeping watchful guard over him.

[Groans of discomfort, pain, and soreness]

William's eyes slowly began to open and thankfully it was dark in his room, so they didn't have to adjust as much. He just laid there in his bed thankful that he had awoken as it meant he didn't die in his sleep but the pain he was feeling was its own hell. He wasn't hurt as badly as when he fought Hercules back in the Summer Isles years ago, but that didn't mean it was pleasant. The soreness all over his body was excruciating but after lying still in his bed for several more minutes he decided it was time to get up. He was hungry so perhaps a bath and some food would help.

"[Groans]…by the Old Gods and the New…" He pushed his blanket off and sat up, his joints and bones letting out sickening cracks and pops as he managed to turn and place his feet on the cold stone floor. The next move would be to stand up, but he lingered in his position a moment longer.

The door to his chambers opened and in walked Ser Arthur Dayne. "I thought I heard something. How are you feeling?"

"Like I've been used as a training dummy for someone with a Warhammer." Will rolled his head around to loosen his neck, tilting it to the side to crack some joints before rolling his shoulders around to do the same. More sickening cracks and pops were heard which while slightly disgusting and unsettling were helping the prince loosen up the stiffness and soreness in his body. Not to the point where he wouldn't feel anything but to the point where he'd at least be able to move without being in constant pain. Still pain but not constant. Cedric Angar walked in with Missandei helping him carry some medical supplies. Both were glad to see the prince was awake and moving again.

"Any more pain or injuries?" Cedric questioned while Missandei opened up one of the curtains allowing sunlight to filter in. She then walked over to Orys and fed him his breakfast.

"No, the same as yesterday and it's all sore." Will answered, holding his hand out so Ser Arthur slowly pulled him up off the bed. He stood on his two feet and slowly leaned back, cracking and popping several more joints and bones but stopped there as he held his side. "Damn ribs."

"Let me see." Cedric walked over and helped the prince remove his sleep tunic. With it off they could see the state the prince was in. There were several bruises all over his shoulders and arms along with his back, but his mid-section was wrapped in gauze. There were splotches of a green all around the ribs area that had seeped through, so it was visible but had dried out. The green was from the medicinal paste and cream Cedric applied to his ribs to help with the healing process. It's what they did last time when he was injured after his fight with Hercules, and it helped him heal then so it'll help him heal now.

Cedric unraveled the wrapped gauze on William's midsection, relieving some pressure as they were wrapped tight to keep the medicinal cream where it needed to be. With the gauze removed there were some dried splotches of the medicinal cream covering up William's ribs which had the dark blue/purple shading of bruising. Anyone else would have winced or looked on in worry but everyone in the room had seen worse when William was recovering after his fight with Hercules. In this instance, the prince's armor helped prevent more serious injuries and the fight didn't last nearly as long.

"How do you feel?" Cedric gingerly touched and examined the bruises all over William's mid-section. He was careful with his hands as even the slightest amount of pressure was difficult to stomach but William was toughing through it like he had before.

"Much like before in the early days on the Summer Isles when I was healing. My entire body is sore, it feels like a horse kicked me in the chest, it sometimes hurt to breathe, and I can't really move around, bend over, or turn to my side."

William grit his teeth, toughing through the pain so Cedric could make his assessment. Cedric was gentle but it was still a pain. From his quick examination and feeling, Cedric was able to tell that there was no additional swelling since yesterday with the medicinal cream having helped ease with some of that. The ribs seemed intact other than the bruising, but none were broken. Cedric signaled Missandei over and she brought a rolled-up bundle of cloth. She placed it on the bed and unraveled it, revealing Cedric's various medical tools. He removed a small bronze conical tube and placed the larger end to William's chest with the shorter end to one ear and listened to his breathing. While slightly painful for William, it was only because of his bruised ribs as there was nothing wrong with his lungs. If he had trouble breathing then they'd be concerned but the fact that he could breathe was a good sign. Cedric listened using the bronze cone placed against William's chest for how his breathing sounded. Depending on what was heard several things could be discerned. For example, if the breathing sounded uneven or haggard than it could be a sign that a rib was broken of if there was a hissing sound that it could mean that a lung was punctured but William's breathing was clear so no broken rib or a punctured lung. Just many bruised ribs with the only thing that could help him being time and rest. After that test, he put the cone away and then checked William's eyes to see their condition.

"Follow my finger." Cedric raised his right index finger and had William follow it with his eyes. The fact that both eyes followed his finger was good and there didn't seem to be any redness or unusual changes to his eyes since he saw them yesterday. "How's your head? Any heaviness or lightness?"

"Just a small headache which is likely from me getting hit." Will remarked and Cedric chuckled.

"Well, your breathing is clear and there is no additional swelling which is good. Your eyes seem fine, and I don't think there seems to be any kind of damage to your mind, most likely just a headache from facing the Mountain but if that should persist than it would be a worry but for now I believe we are ok. Unfortunately, just more time and rest is all that will heal your wounds." Cedric said and William nodded.

"If it's all right, I'd like to break my fast and have a warm bath. Perhaps that would help." William suggested.

"We'll have the cooks send up some food and get the bath ready for you." Missandei informed him.

"After that some Milk of the Poppy should help you get moving around better." Cedric added with her and Missandei leaving to tend to those matters.

William sat back down on the bed and took a few deep breaths as he let his pain die down. "Did I miss anything yesterday?"

"Other than the feast and the spectacle of your fight with the Mountain spreading throughout the city like a plague? No. Queen Cersei did try to call for your victory in the Grand Melee to be contested. She said you violated the rules set forth for the competition when you killed Clegane." Arthur informed him and Will just let out a sigh of frustration.

"If anyone actually paid her any mind than clearly I died last night and I'm in the one of the Seven Hells." He remarked much to Ser Arthur's amusement.

"Don't worry. No one paid her any mind. It was clear to everyone that Clegane was going to kill you, so you acted in defense. Even if you hadn't killed him, Robert would have for that remark about your mother."

"Tywin?"

"Disavowed Clegane's actions and called him a mindless beast. He's been doing his best to try and salvage what happened. Even handed over Clegane's body to the Martells for what nearly happened to Oberyn and for Elia Martell. And if the gossip is to be believed than he's the reason Cersei wasn't present at the feast last night and why she won't be seen until the tourney is over." Ser Arthur informed him. "He'll likely want to speak to you today to assure you of his innocence. Do you think he had anything to do with the Mountain?"

"I wouldn't put it past the man but not like this. By all accounts Tywin seems to be broaching peace with me so to do this suddenly was ill advised. Plus, if this was his plan than Clegane would have been here from the start and not arrive early yesterday and he would have come with more men. If he did want me dead in the melee he would have put in a lot more men to back up Clegane." William rubbed the back of his neck and rolled his head around as he thought things over. "No, this was Cersei. A desperate move on her part. It cost her a lot of gold and Tywin's most feared and dangerous solider, someone not so easily replaced. I'll commend her for the brazen attempt."

"So, what do you want to do?" Ser Arthur wondered.

"Cersei's attempts have been brazened, bold, and lack subtly. While I prefer subtly, perhaps there is a brazen act that I can do in order to further push her into a corner and send a tremor of fear into any potential allies she could try to turn to her side." William remarked and Ser Arthur could see the beginning of a plan taking place in the prince's mind. "One thing I'm certain of is that Cersei didn't just bet on Clegane to kill him. The moment the Grant Melee began I was attacked, and those men were aiming to kill. The odds of them being successful was low but she figured that a greater number could overwhelm me given the chance. Clegane was her ultimate trump, but she didn't want to leave anything to chance. She had to have put a bounty on my head, a big enough one with a guarantee of safety and escape from King's Landing and Westeros to make them try as they did. Do you think our network could find as many of the people she paid in the Melee as possible?"

"Shouldn't be impossible. We have the list of combatants so all we'll need to do is narrow down the list to those you fought and those that sided with the Mountain towards the end. Narrowing down all the names will take the most time but not impossible." Ser Arthur admitted as William thought it over for a second.

"Normally, I'd assign a matter of subtly like this to Autolycus. The man is crafty enough to distract a man with a conversation while stealing his pouch of coins and will blend in easily enough, but he doesn't know the houses of Westeros, so he'll need help. Perhaps Thoros could help him. He's been here for years, and he knows Westeros well and Cedric can help as well."

"Understood. What do you plan to do?" Ser Arthur asked.

"I'm still not sure but knowing the names of men who Cersei paid to try and kill me could prove useful." William answered and Ser Arthur could concede to that. It may not show itself now but there could be a use for that kind of information in the future. "Either way, we can handle that another time, preferably when I can move more freely."

"Right." Ser Arthur Dayne agreed as Missandei returned along with some more handmaidens with some food for the prince to eat along with buckets of water. Missandei placed the food onto his desk while the maidens went into the adjoining room which held his private bath. They poured in hot water and prepared it for the prince.

William sat down at his desk with Ser Arthur, Missandei, Cedric, Hercules and the others joining him in his room, and they ate their morning meal. Since he went to bed and rested after Cedric had checked him out yesterday he didn't eat an evening meal, so he was hungry. He ate his full of bread, cheese, cured meats, some roasted fish, sausage, roasted vegetables and greens and finished with fruit. William wasn't one for sweets, so he let Missandei enjoy them. He saw her eyes on the lemon cakes the entire time, so he offered them to her, and she was very happy. Just as they finished their meal the bath was filled and heated to the perfect temperature so William could finally bathe.

They all left the room allowing William to remove his clothes in privacy and get into the tub. He walked into his bathing chambers and let his trousers drop to the ground before he slowly dipped his toes into the tub and sat down in the hot water. Hot, not scalding which felt amazing on his bruises, especially with his ribs. He wiggled his toes in the water before leaning back and resting his head over the edge of the tub. Eyes closed and a smile spread on his face as he felt the water do its magic. He was going to just sit here and rest, enjoying the relaxation that came with the hot water easing the tense and bruised muscles in his body.

While he rested in his tub, the door to his room opened and someone entered. Despite his relaxation, Will's hearing picked up the faint rustle of linen, so he turned his head to the door and saw Tyene and Nymeria standing at the door. Immediately, he felt a deep pit of dread in his stomach. Normally, he'd be happy to see them but that was only if his body wasn't in pain.

"Good morning, prince." They greeted, giving him their best alluring and seductive smiles.

"Good morning. And whatever you're thinking about doing…please don't." William begged only to get chuckles in response. The two Sand Snakes reached up to the clips of their dresses around their necks and shoulders. A second later their dresses dropped and pooled around their feet revealing them in all their unobstructed beauty. Their tone and slender legs led to their tantalizing hips and clean-shaven womanhood. Something of a personal choice they took up shortly after they each became intimate with the prince. He kept himself clean shaven around his manhood, so they did the same. It added something to their intimate moments. Up past their slim waists were their toned stomachs curtesy of hard training and up further was their breasts. Tyene had larger, more supple breasts with larger nipples as opposed to Nymeria's smaller size which was something the former often used to mock the latter. Further up were their slim and tantalizing necks leading to their faces which could entice and weaken even the strongest wills, case in point, the crown prince.

Nymeria walked forward, swaying her hips as she passed him, tracing one hand over the prince's arm before stepping into the tub. She gave William an unobstructed view of her tantalizing and supple rear, the one thing she had over Tyene before she turned around and looked down at him with an alluring smirk. William ended up being at eye-level with her womanhood and could see it glistening, revealing her attraction and lust was putting her in a very pleasant mood before she lowered herself into the hot water and settled herself on his lap.

"How are you feeling?" Nymeria leaned in, her lips tantalizing close to his but despite her being in his lap, she was careful not to touch his ribs or put too much pressure on him.

"Sore."

He felt a pair of gentle hands rub his shoulders from behind, easing some tension and bruising there which admittedly felt good. Tyene gingerly rubbed his shoulders and looked at the bruises on his arms and neck and even more that littered his chest and ribs. In a moment of tenderness, she leaned forward and kissed him on the side of the head before leaning against him.

"You saved our father…risked your own life…" Tyene whispered to him.

"He's my friend. I would do that to save any of them." He whispered back and Tyene kissed him. Her lips against his as this kiss was more gentle and tender than the ones before. Tyene was portraying her great deal of thanks and gratitude for William's actions not only for her father but in slaying Clegane. It was less a kiss of lust and sex and more of gentleness and love. After a few moments she pulled away only for Nymeria to slowly turn his head and lean in, kissing him as tender and loving as Tyene did. She took his hands and guided them under the water where she rested them on her rear, where she knew he liked to have his hands on her. Once they were where they needed to be she moved her hands forward and grasped his manhood and began to gently stroke. "Ladies…please. I'm injured."

"You are not injured. You are sore. There is a difference, and it seems that a part of you is just fine." Nymeria teased as her actions under the bath water had made a certain part of Will, her and Tyene's favorite part, come alive and stand tall, strong, and proud. "You saved our father…you killed the Mountain…you avenged our Aunt Elia and her children…Dorne is in your debt."

"So…" Tyene wrapped her arms around Will's neck from behind and gingerly placed his head against her chest, nesting it between her breasts as she kissed his head. "…allow us to show you just how grateful Dorne is."

"After all, today is a day of rest. So, relax and rest…" Nymeria leaned up and shifted forward a bit before lowering herself down in his lap. "[Moans]…and allow us…[moans]…to do all the work."

Nymeria rocked herself back and forth gently while Will leaned his head back and groaned where Tyene turned his head and kissed him. The two continued to kiss as the bath water sloshed around and Nymeria moaned in delight as she began to pick up speed. Will's grip on her rear tightened as a groan slipped past his mouth.

At least he wasn't focused on his pain anymore.

A few hours later…

The rhythmic stomping and clatter of metal and wood walking down the halls of the Red Keep was the telltale sign of a group of soldiers marching. Servants and attendees stepped out of the path of a squad of Unsullied marching past them and bowed their heads as the crown prince William Baratheon walked by. The crown prince was dressed in some fresh clothing and looking alive and well after his fight with the Mountain. He was moving slowly considering the pain he was in and oddly enough he was walking with the assistance of a cane. After his enjoyable bath, Cedric applied some more medicinal cream to the prince's ribs and applied a wrapping of gauze before giving him a small dosage of milk of the poppy to help him with the pain and get him moving again. To aid in the prince moving and walking around, Cedric had brought him a cane. There was a bit of protest from William, but Cedric informed him it would only be temporary with the cane just there to help him alleviate some of the pressure and weight on his legs and get him moving better. He reluctantly accepted when it took him longer to move across his room and out into the hallway then he thought. The milk of the poppy helped but it was still a pain so he would reluctantly use the cane for now.

William walked down the halls of the Red Keep with Ser Arthur Dayne, Missandei, Cedric Angar, and a squad of Unsullied on the way to see his father. After his bath, Cedric informed him that a servant had arrived to check on the prince's condition and if he had woken up. Cedric informed him that William was bathing, so the servant asked that the prince see the King in his chambers. Guess Robert wanted to see that his son was all right.

The squad of Unsullied were his escorts and protection. Normally, Hercules and the others would be with him, but William sent them to get see how Gendry and Edric were doing and to take them to the training yard. He'd be with them once he had met with their father. They moved down the hall to King Robert's chambers where he saw Ser Barristan Selmy and Ser Borus Blunt of the Kingsguard standing at attention. Ser Barristan smiled as he saw William walk over but had a small look of concern when he saw the cane.

"Don't worry, Ser Barristan. It's only temporary and just to help me move until I heal and can move more freely." William's assurance put the old knight's heart at ease. "Is my father in?"

"Yes." Ser Barristan knocked on the door.

"What is it?"

"It's your son, Prince William, your grace."

"William?! Send him in!"

Ser Barristan opened the door as William signaled the others to wait while he walked in. "My prince…I'm glad you're all right. And well done with Ser Gregor. I've seen brave men go against him and he's put them all in the ground."

"Not this time. Clegane was just a wild dog, and they are terrifying, yes, but not against a wolf." William quipped and Ser Barristan chuckled in amusement. "And it was long overdue justice for Elia Martell and her children. They are avenged and no one else shall suffer under his hand. I have no qualms with that."

Ser Barristan smiled in pride at the young man he has known, trained, and seen grow into a man now. He couldn't be more proud. "Spoken like a true knight, my prince."

"I learned from the best." William gave him a smirk before he walked into his father's room. The cane helped and once inside he saw his father sitting at his desk with some food while speaking with Jon Arryn and his uncle Ned Stark. It seems as though the three were talking and conversing but when Robert saw his son walk into the room his eyes lit up like a blazing pyre.

"There he is! My son! The Mountain Slayer! HA-HA!" Robert got up and marched over, quickly wrapping his son into a tight hug.

"Gah! Father…"

"Oh, sorry." Robert pulled away allowing William to take a few pained breaths to recover from the squeezing his ribs just underwent. "Are you all right?"

"Yeah…nothing's broken. Just heavily bruised." William assured him and the pain began to fade. "Please don't do that until I'm better."

"Sorry. I'm just happy to see you up and about." Robert held his son's face in his hands, smiling in delight but then noticed the cane.

"Don't worry, Father. Just temporary. To help me move with more ease." William assured him and Robert smiled.

"Come. Sit. Join us." Robert led him over to his desk as Ned pulled out another chair for him.

"How are you, William? Really?" Ned asked.

"I'm fine, uncle. Nothing I haven't been through before." William moved around and managed to slide himself into the chair, easing up the pressure and pain. "Unfortunately, time and rest is all that can be done for me to heal."

"Are you sure you're all right, William? We should have Pycelle take a look just to be safe." Jon Arryn suggested.

"I'm all right, Uncle Jon. Cedric took a look at me when I woke up this morning. No broken bones and he applied a medicinal cream to my sides to help in their healing as well as some milk of the poppy. I just need time." William informed him. "I was in much worse condition when I fought Hercules in the Summer Isles and Cedric's work back then helped me heal. He's done the same here."

"Well, if he helped you before than I trust him to help you again now. I was wrack with worry last night when you skipped the feast." Robert spoke the truth. His face portrayed genuine worry but now relief that things were better.

"Like you, Father, I'm not easy to kill but I needed rest last night. I think sleeping through the night aided in my recovery than if I would have attended the feast."

"Than it was a wise move on your part, nephew. We're glad to see you well." Ned gave him a comforting smile which was shared amongst Jon Arryn and Robert.

"Glad to be well. Like the three of you, I'm not so easy to kill." William quipped which just made Robert bellow in laughter.

"And now the whole realms knows it. The crown prince on his return home slayed the Mountain that Rides. William the Conqueror earned himself a new title, the Mountain Slayer! Ha! And your shout after made some of the lords piss themselves in fear! HA! Well done, boy." Robert praised.

"Thank you, Father but let me assure you and Lord Arryn both that I only did what I did to protect my life." William figured he didn't need to tell them that with Ser Arthur already telling him what everyone thought but it was the proper thing to do and to make sure that they knew he didn't go into the melee wanting to kill someone. It was a minor thing but mattered.

"We know, William. It's clear that Clegane wouldn't have stopped, and you were justified in your actions. Lord Tywin even informed us that he bares you no ill will for the death of his bannerman. He even went so far as to disavow Clegane's actions. He wasn't made aware of his arrival in King's Landing until that morning." Jon Arryn informed him.

"It's clear that Tywin lost control of his mad dog." Ned Stark remarked.

"Well, that's the thing about mad dogs. They're loyal up to a point…and a dog is nothing compared to a wolf. A wolf with clear purpose…and a righteous motive." William admitted, sparing a glance at his uncle. It was brief but all that needed to be conveyed was and Ned gave his nephew a smile of pride. He was inferring that Clegane's death was in defense of his life but also served the purpose of long overdue justice for Elia Martell and her children. While not there to witness it exactly, William had heard from many servants, lords, and men that were there about how disgusted Ned Stark was when the bodies of Elia Martell and her children were brought before the Iron Throne. He called for the immediate arrest and execution of Gregor Clegane for the barbarity but Robert, being Robert, defended the actions as the end of the dragon spawn, barbarity be damned. It was no wonder that Ned left soon after to go rescue his sister. William had just avenged their death and brought justice to House Martell and Dorne.

"Well said, nephew." Ned praised.

"Cersei put up a fuss but don't worry. If you hadn't killed him I would have for what he said about your mother. The man clearly lost his mind. I just wish I could have been the one to done him in." Robert said.

"All well and good father but I'm not sure how well that would have gone for you. You're in much better condition than before but you're still so slow. And against Clegane…well, if you had fought him than perhaps we'd be already crowning me king." William joked as he picked a grape from the plate and ate it.

"Oh, you think so you cheeky brat! I would have bashed his chest plate in with my Warhammer and then turned his head into nothing more than a pile of shit! I would have had the crowd going wild!" Robert stood to his feet and boasted in his usual grandeur and gravitas.

"But would you have lasted as long as I did to even get there?" William quipped, which made Jon Arryn and Ned chuckled as they knew he was right.

"Is this how you three treat your king? With contempt and mockery?!" Robert shouted in defiance but the looks of disbelief he was getting just made him chuckle. "Ha-ha-ha! Fine but I still believe I would have been able to kill him easily enough."

"I'm not sure. His sword was longer than your hammer so would you be able to get close enough to use it?" William joked which just made them chuckle. "Regardless, I believe the Seven Kingdoms will be better off without the Mountain that Rides from now on."

"Ha! And no one will think to challenge you so openly after you took his head off. Well done again, son. Your mother would be proud with how you handled yourself and how you protected her memory." Robert gave him a big smile and William returned it in kind.

"If anything, she'd ring my head for being reckless but yes." The joke earned a solid chuckle from Robert who agreed. Lyanna would be chastising and badgering their son for what happened but nonetheless would be glad he's all right. "With today being a day of rest, I don't imagine there are many matters that need to be attended to."

"That are of immediate concern? No. Things are proceeding as they should and all matters for the remaining days of the tourney and the final joust are in order. Speaking of which, your winnings from the Grand Melee are available to you, my prince." Jon Arryn informed him.

"Take my winnings and evenly distribute it amongst the people of King's Landing. A gift." William told him earning looks from the three. "I'm already one of the wealthiest men in Westeros. Those winnings would be better served to those who have need of it."

"A generous gift from the crown prince. A noble gesture." Jon Arryn praised.

"Are you sure about that, Son? Giving away coin so easily when it could be used may hinder you in the future if you continue to do so." Robert warned him and William gave him a look of assurance.

"Rest assured, Father, my financial matters are set and have well considered all future endeavors and foreseeable actions. A tourney purse is but a drop of rain in that bucket of water. Trust me. After all, I did help to ensure that your constant tourneys and celebrations wouldn't bankrupt the crown. Clearly you never learned from Lord Arryn that gold does not grow on trees."

"Your father was always a slow learner." Jon Arryn quipped making Ned chuckled in delight.

"Not my fault all that stuff is so boring. Where you get the patience for all of that is beyond me." Robert admitted.

"A gift from his mother. Starks have a habit for patience." Ned spoke.

"As good an answer as any." William said. "If it is not too much to ask, there was a matter I was hoping to speak to you about father. With you and Lord Arryn since I've returned."

"And what is that?" Robert wondered.

"Mainly a matter of reaffirming my duties as heir to the throne and given the circumstances of this tourney…I believe a unique opportunity presents itself." William spoke with an all-knowing twinkle in his eyes. He spoke with his father and Lord Arryn about his idea and while there was some confusion and questioning as to its purpose…they began to come around to the idea.

An hour later…

William walked down the halls of the Red Keep, on his way to the training yard to see how Gendry and Edric were doing. He came away from the meeting with his father, Lord Arryn, and his uncle Ned, with a smile on his face. He had accomplished what he had set out to do. With the final days of the tourney, the matters would be settled, and preparations would be made.

William walked into the training yard to see his brothers Gendry and Edric sparring and training with Robb Stark and Edric Dayne with Hercules and the others watching and instructed. Edric's aunts Ashara and Allyria watched from the side with the latter speaking and chatting with Lord Beric Dondarrion. The two were getting very close and William figured it wouldn't be long before he suspected that they were betrothed to one another. Tyrion was also here, watching likely because he had nothing better to do and he didn't want to spend time with Cersei who was still sulking and stewing in her evil.

Tyrion was the first to see him arrive, so he stood up and raised his cup of wine. "All hail the Mountain Slayer, William the Conqueror! How humble it is to have a true god walk among us and bless us with his presence."

"Very amusing, Tyrion. I almost forgot to laugh." William shot back as he walked over and then shook his hand. "How are they doing?"

"As usual. And you?"

"Alive which is important. Just time will bring me back to what I once was." He said as he caught up with everyone. They were glad to see him alive and walking on his feet though many were concerned with the cane. Again, he assured them that it was temporary and would be fine with more time. He spent some time there and rested after the long walk and they informed him of how things went at the feast he missed last night. All anyone could talk about was the spectacle of the Grand Melee and many spoke of praise and relief in the death of Gregor Clegane. The Dornish especially were happy and with the good relationship William already had with them, this only cemented that.

Line Break xxxxx

A squad of Unsullied were stationed around an area within the Red Keep with Ser Arthur Dayne, Hercules, and the others nearby on guard duty. The area in question was the Red Keep's Godswood. Overlooking Blackwater Rush and filled with trees of elm, alder, and black cottonwood along with other flora truly made it a small piece of nature within the castle. William was kneeling before a large tree with his eyes closed for his meditation and joining him was Hundred Eyes. Group meditation for the prince's training which was the only kind he could do in his current condition. A key to keep the mind sharp so the two knelt before the tree in the Godswood and meditated. With their eyes closed and how still they were it could be mistaken that they were dead but the subtle rise and fall of their chests confirmed their breathing. The Godswood was the perfect place for this.

There isn't a weirwood tree like those in the North but a heart tree instead, a large brown oak tree without a carved faced. It was a very large tree covered with vines of the smokeberry plant, often used to make brown wine. Nearby were small patches of a dark red flower known as Dragon's breath. The breeze from the Blackwater Rush made the branches and leaves flutter in the wind and just being there echoed the quaint quiet and peacefulness of the real woods, providing a sanctuary within the Red Keep from the loud and busy nature of King's Landing. Since the Faith of the Seven was more predominant south of the neck the Godswood were virtually always empty. It was part of the reason Will enjoyed being around when he was younger as well as a small way for him to connect to his Northern heritage. Now it meant peace and quiet for meditating. He and Hundred eyes knelt with their eyes closed, hands on their thighs with no thoughts other than the focus on their breathing. Thoughts began to slip away as they focused on what they were doing, bringing them a sense of peace which was precisely what meditation was for.

[Distant clack of boots on stone]

"I believe you have a guest, my prince." Hundred Eyes informed him.

"Friend or foe, Sifu?" William wondered.

"Judging by the scent of lavender oil, I believe them to be friend. Possibly a new enamored young woman who has her eyes on you."

"How are you so sure it isn't Tyene or Nymeria?" William asked.

"They prefer the smell of oleander and roses respectively. Enough time with them in Freedom's Cove has ensured that their smell is as easy to detect as yours." Hundred Eyes answered.

"And perchance, what is my smell?"

"Cedar, soap, and Lilac though the latter is usually because of Missandei. Ah, to be young and have the care and attention of many women but be careful, my prince. No fury more potent and deadly than a woman scorned." Hundred Eyes cautioned.

"Words of wisdom that will be remembered, Sifu. Excuse me." William pushed through the pain and soreness to get back to his feet. He retrieved his cane which was leaning against the heart tree and walked through the Godswood to meet his guest.

The clack of boots were actually the clack of heels belonging to one Princess Arianne Nymeros Martell, the eldest daughter of Doran Martell and heir apparent to Sunspear. Only a few years older than the prince, Arianne is short, standing at only five foot two so much shorter than the prince but was buxom and beautiful with olive skin, large dark expressive eyes, and long, thick black hair that falls in ringlets to the middle of her back. Full lips, a husky voice, round ripe breasts, and a slender narrow waist that led to thick wide hips and a supple rear. Wearing a golden ringlet head piece placed just below her hairline, it was in the perfect position for the accompanying ruby to rest on her forehead. She had on a golden snake necklace, matching earrings with similar red gemstones to match with the ruby on her forehead and was wearing a purple linen two-piece dress. The top was really a shawl and bodice for her chest with accompanying sleeves leaving her toned, flat torso exposed which also had a red gemstone placed in her belly button and connected to the bottom part of the dress with some golden chains. The rest of her dress was a golden belt wrapped around her waist where the purple linen flowed down her legs leaving slits open so she could walk more freely and entice many with a flash of her legs. The linen was loose fitting yet covered her modesty and could be seen as scandalous by many but in Dorne, as the height of fashion. Granted, the dress in question highlighted Arianne Martell's best features and would really only be worn for one purpose. Seduction. (1)

Being the niece of Oberyn Martell and cousin to the Sand Snakes, she has heard plenty of their tales and stories of William the Conqueror. Some of their tales were so fanciful they seemed to be nothing but fabrications, yet they swore it the truth. The prince was an amazing archer with no equal, able to shoot a target from several hundred meters away. He was quick, agile, and fast with an athleticism that has allowed him to scale the walls of cities and outrun soldiers. His skill in combat had no equal with that being evident in his success over Gregor Clegane and according to Nymeria and Tyene, the Prince was a very gifted lover. Arianne had to admit it intrigued her. From how it was told, in the beginning the prince was closed off and guarded, not at all versed in the art of love yet Tyene broke through that barrier slowly. From how she says the Prince can be loving, tender, and sweet to make your heart sore and then he can be as dominant, rough, and exhilarating the next. The Prince got only better each time and from how her cousins have told her, their encounters have become addicting, but the prince didn't go to a whorehouse or brothel. It was only Tyene, Nymeria, and his handmaiden that he laid with an in fairness when you have those three beauties there would be no need for a brothel. Princess Arianne had to admit that the prince was handsome and if her cousins had such nice things to say that was also a consideration, but it wasn't really until she saw him protect her uncle and kill Gregor Clegane that her interest grew.

Here she was older than the prince by a few years and unwed. The allure of being future Queen did have some merit and at the very least she entertained the idea. That's why she was alone and seeking out the prince. Already, she had heard that the Rose of Highgarden, Margaery Tyrell, had spent some quality time with him so she would not be outdone. Sure, Arianne entertained the thought of her being able to be with Willas Tyrell. She was fond of the man, and they shared incredible times together. With the prince's friendship with Garlan Tyrell, and the goodwill he has earned with her uncle Oberyn and her father Doran, perhaps the prince could help sow the seeds for her to match with Willas. If not, she would see if her cousins were right about the Prince as he would make a fine husband. If he could then she would welcome the chance to be with Willas with open arms but that didn't mean she couldn't partake in the unbelievable sex her cousins so rave about before she was betrothed.

Her destination was the Godswood as Tyene said he was going there to meditate so she arrived, hoping to surprise him but saw his Unsullied standing guard. Undeterred, she walked forward when the Unsullied move their spears in her way. "Forgive me. I was hoping to speak with the Prince. Is he available?"

Her question got no response as the Unsullied did not move. Like stone walls, they stood their ground and Arianne was caught without a means to move past. Seducing the Unsullied would be as useless as trying to fly so what to do now?"

"Stand down. She's not a threat."

The Unsullied stood down and removed their spears from her path where she saw the prince walk over. "Forgive them. They were just doing their duties and I'm afraid that some are still unfamiliar with the Common Tongue."

"It's quite all right, my prince. I assure you. It is a pleasure to meet you again." Arianne gave him her best smile and he gave her one back.

"The pleasure is mine, Princess Arianne. Your cousins and uncle have spoken quite a lot about you during my time with them in Freedom's Cove. It is nice to finally put a name to all their tales."

"All good ones, I hope?" She wondered.

"Of course, with a few from your rambunctious youth thrown in for levity as I'm sure they've spoken about me in great detail as well." William remarked.

"And all good things, my prince. Nymeria and Tyene are very complimentary to you. From how they spoke of you they made you out to be a God made flesh which I now believe. Only a god could have defeated the Mountain as you did." Arianne praised.

"T'was just luck and skill that served me in the end, no godly intervention, I'm afraid." Will then held out his arm. "Would you care to join me for a walk?"

"I'd be delighted." She looped her arm with his, getting in closely and pressing his arm into her breasts in the pretext to help him with walking. "How are you feeling?"

"Sore but I'll live. Just time and rest will get me back to full strength." He assured her.

"For fighting yet but from what Nymeria and Tyene have told me you managed to surprise them even in your condition." Arianne was all playful and gave him a flirtatious wink which just made him chuckle in response. "It seems as though the stories my cousins have told me about you were true all along."

"All good ones?" William quipped at her, and she gave him a smirk.

"But of course. Here I was thinking they had ensnared the crown prince but from what I've heard you are not an easy prey."

"It's the Northern blood in me along with the hints of the dragon." He admitted. He knew that Arianne was trying to seduce him. She was beautiful and had an incredible allure to her that would easily break the will of many, but he was not so simple and weak-willed. She would need to do better. "How has your time been in King's Landing?"

"At first droll and dull but more exciting by the day. Though my father seems to be extra busy. Moreso that I anticipated." She informed him.

"I may bare some of that blame. I spoke with your father and uncle not too long after your arrival in the city. Among the many things we talked about were some valuable trade and commerce deals for House Martell to overlook. It will keep him busy for some time, but a great deal of profit will come to Dorne." He assured her.

"Were business and trade all that was discussed between you three? Not per say, the talk of marriage?" She wondered. "You are unencumbered with a wife so I would imagine there have been many betrothals for you to consider."

"There have and I'm sure there have been for you as well, my lady. The heir to Sunspear is without a husband. Why is that?" He asked, knowing the reason but wanting to know if she did.

"My father is to blame for that. Betrothals and requests to be made but none have been chosen. It's aggravating." She admitted and he knew she was hiding some more anger deep inside. Nymeria and Tyene were rather forthcoming about the troubles with their cousin and how she felt she was being replaced with heir with her younger brother, Quentyn.

"Merely a lapse in his part, my lady. Upon our talks, I spoke with him regarding many things and among them were his assurance that his first-born daughter would remain as heir. It was merely some…adjacent matters that resulted in the delay." He said and Arianne gazed at him with intrigue. "Rest assured, I believe your title of heir remains unless you were to marry a certain Tyrell. I'm aware of the closeness you share with the Heir to Highgarden."

"Ah, Willas. Yes. We are close. Oberyn or Tyene?" She wondered who spilled that secret.

"Nymeria, actually. Though in that case it would mean forfeiting your claim as heir to Sunspear to be the lady of Highgarden? Would you be ok with that?" He asked and she thought it over. Forfeit her claim to the seat of Sunspear to be with a man she truly cared for but in doing so would lose a position of power. "Something you don't need to answer right away, my lady but if it is your desire, I can help smooth the talks between the Tyrells and the Martells if that is your wish."

Arianne just looked at William and smiled. Her cousins were right. He was sweet and had a good heart. "You're right. A decision does not have to be made at this moment." She then leaned in to his ear to whisper something. "…but before I were to be wed…I would hope to experience what my cousins have raved about so many times…"

William cleared his throat and loosened his collar a bit, earning a chuckle from the Dornish Princess. "That matter, much like your decision, could be discussed another time."

[Chuckles] "Numerous time spent with my cousins and yet you still tremble? For shame." She mocked but playfully.

"A steady will be one thing but to the Dornish, you need to be as resolute as Valyrian Steel. I'm still working on that."

His joke just made her laugh as they continued walking when they heard some footsteps and saw Margaery Tyrell turn the corner. Wearing a lovely blue dress with a deep plunging neckline that highlighted her chest and drew attention to her neck which was framed by her flowing brown hair, she was of a similar mind to Prince Arianne. She wished to speak with the Prince for a moment alone, but it appears she arrived a little too late.

"Lady Margaery." William bowed his head, and she bowed in return.

"My prince." She curtsied as well before looking at Arianne. "Princess Arianne."

"Lady Tyrell." Arianne gave her a playful smirk. Clearly the Tyrell Rose had her own plans. If only she arrived sooner.

"Forgive me, my prince. I wanted to see how you were doing and hopefully speak with you. I've enjoyed our various conversations thus far." She told him.

"There is nothing to forgive, Lady Margaery. Princess Arianne and I were just speaking. If you'd like, you're more than welcome to join us. After all, we are just talking." He offered and she nodded, walking to his other side which incidentally is the one with his cane, so she assisted him in his walking. They continued walking through the Godswood and talked just as the prince said they would.

During that time, the two ladies would sneak glances at each other. A game had just formed between the two and while things were still unclear regarding various matters, one thing was for certain. The prince's heart still laid unclaimed for now.

Two days later…

William stood in his room in front of a mirror as Missandei helped him dressed in his best regal and royal clothes. Clothing he hadn't worn since he was younger but now that he was back in Westeros he likely would be wearing from now on. Polished boots and wrinkle-free trousers alongside a white tunic. He fixed his hair as Missandei helped him into the royal tailcoat that was made for him. Black with golden embroidery with hints of blue and over the heart was the stitching of a blue winter rose in honor of his mother, Lyanna Stark. His hands slipped through the sleeves, and it settled on his shoulders as Missandei walked in front of him and began tying it closed.

"Nervous?" Missandei asked.

"A little but I'm ready." He replied before holding one of Missandei's hands with his. "Are you still with me, Missandei?"

"To the end, my prince." She promised.

He leaned down and stole a quick kiss from her. She kissed back and the two separated just as the door opened and in walked Ser Arthur Dayne and Cedric Angar with the former carrying a small wooden box

"Are you ready?" Ser Arthur asked just as Missandei finished and stepped away.

"I am." He answered.

"It is missing one thing." Cedric pointed out. Ser Arthur put the wooden box down and opened it, revealing a crown. A crown he had fashioned when they were in Slaver's Bay in Meereen. He knew that he would eventually return to Westeros and King's Landing to retake his position as crown prince and while he didn't plan on wearing it all the time, having it for certain ceremonies and such seemed appropriate. Much like the crown of his father, Robert Baratheon, he kept its design similar. A circular base like all crowns made of bronze with a few gemstones equally spaced apart before golden stage-like antlers made up the rest, appearing like the crown itself was made out of antlers much like his father's crown but in the center where two antler horns met was a wolf's head made of silver. The part where the antlers of the Stag of House Baratheon encircles the wolf of House Stark was the head of the crown and symbolized his two houses, making it unique to him.

Cedric removed the crown and walked over, placing it on William's head. He double-checked to make sure it looked prim and proper before stepping away. "You look like a true prince." Ser Arthur Dayne told him. While not exactly what William would wear every day, on this occasion for what was about to come, it made a statement. He was the Crown prince and today everyone would remember that.

"Let's go." William said and Missandei handed him Blackfyre. For this, he felt having it on his side would be best and they left his room. He was able to walk well enough that he didn't need the cane and proceeded down the halls with Hercules and the others joining him for protection. They made their way through the Red Keep until they arrived at the throne room.

The tourney had come to an end with the final Joust ending yesterday. Ser Jaime Lannister was declared the winner. In all honesty, while the Joust was a thrill to watch it paled in comparison to the Grand Melee which many were still talking about. When the prince arrived in the Royal box to witness the joust he came out to thunderous cheer from the smallfolk who worshipped him like a god. Much of that was due to his incredible performance in the Grand Melee and his slaying of Gregor Clegane but by the day of the Joust his winnings from the melee had been distributed to the people of King's Landing, earning him even more fanfare.

The Joust commenced and the prince watched and enjoyed himself with the others before its end resulted in Ser Jaime Lannister winning. There was another feast the night of the Joust where William spoke with many lords regarding various matters and plans of his own which they were all excited about while also meeting their daughters. If only the lords knew that their daughters were a little too late to the party, but William was courteous and respectful. Normally, with the end of the Joust that would be it, but the lords were instructed of a special ceremony to take place in the throne room at high noon the next day. It wouldn't be until the ceremony began that they would understand what was happening.

William and his group arrived at the throne room and the doors opened, revealing every noble and lords of importance. They stood side by side in rows that stretched from the steps of the Iron Throne to the great double doors of the room. One section of rows on the left and then another on the right with a clear path in between them The Seven Kingsguard Ser Jaime Lannister, Ser Meryn Trant, Ser Mandon Moore, Ser Borus Blount, Ser Preston Greenfield, Ser Arys Oakheart and lord Commander Ser Barristan Selmy all stood in full armor and at attention around King Robert who sat on the throne. One of the few times he did and was dressed in his royal best with his crown on his head. The Unsullied stayed at attention at the door as William kept moving towards the throne down the open path until he was at the throne. He looked at his father and gave him a nod as Ser Arthur Dayne, Cedric, Missandei, Hercules, and the others stepped to the side in their rows. William turned around, dressed in his best with Blackfyre secured around his waist for this momentum occasion.

One by one, the lords of the Seven Kingdoms stepped forth to William, got to one knee and swore oaths of fealty to the crowned heir and prince of the Iron Throne. This was the matter William spoke to Robert and Jon Arryn about. With him back, he felt that a reaffirmation of their oaths to the Throne and him as heir was needed for them to know that he wasn't leaving again. It was something that was discussed back and forth but eventually Robert and Lord Arryn saw the merits to it. And they had a rare opportunity for it since all the lords of Westeros were in King's Landing, so it was the perfect chance. With the crown prince returned and oaths of fealty sworn, it would reassure all their allies and make their potential enemies think twice about any acts of treason. William liked to think he's made it this far through respect, admiration, and love but he also knew that a good dose of fear was just as useful and with this, it put fear into his enemies.

The High Septon stood next to William and spoke the name of each lord who then came up and swore fealty.

"Hoster Tully, Lord Paramount of the Trident and Lord of Riverrun."

The old Lord of the Riverlands walked forward and bent the knee to Prince William Baratheon.

"I, Hoster Tully, Lord Paramount of the Trident and Lord of Riverrun, promise to be faithful to King Robert Baratheon and his heir, Prince William the Conqueror. I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. I swear this, by the Old Gods and the New."

Once he was done, he walked to the side and placed himself within a row of other lords.

"Mace Tyrell, Lord Paramount of the Reach, Warden of the South and Lord of Highgarden."

Lord Mace Tyrell walked forward, stepping away from his family. Olena Tyrell looked over at the crown prince with a smirk on her face. She had to give it to the boy. He knew when to take advantage of a situation. There had likely never been a ceremony like this since Robert was sworn in as King and it could be seen as unnecessary, but the Prince was doing this as a grand gesture with a subtle threat. He was back, he was still the crowned prince and heir, and if his fight and defeat of the Gregor Clegane adds to it, he was not to be messed with. This was a warning to any potential enemies he might have in the Seven Kingdoms. You mess with him, you mess with the heir to the Iron Throne.

Margaery looked at the prince, thinking similar to her grandmother while making up future plans for herself. Her gaze subtly shifted around to room to one Princess Arianne Martell who was standing with her family including her father, Prince Doran Martell. While she had made excellent headway with the prince and a good relationship was beginning to form, there was still more to be done.

"I, Mace Tyrell, Lord Paramount of the Reach, and Lord of Highgarden, promise to be faithful to King Robert Baratheon and his heir, Prince William the Conqueror. I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. I swear this, by the Old Gods and the New."

"Prince Doran Martell, Ruling prince of Dorne, and Lord of Sunspear."

Prince Doran slowly walked over to the prince to swear his oath. Prince Arianne subtly turned her head and locked her gaze with Margaery Tyrell. The Princess of Dorne and the Rose of Highgarden. The two most likely and eligible matches for the prince compared to any and all the other young maidens who arrived in King's Landing. They were the only two who were on the board, so to speak. Margaery Tyrell had made good headway with the Prince in their many interactions and her older brother Garlan was good friends with him as well so there was that. Prince Arianne on the other hand had an uncle who was good friends with the prince and her cousins were his lovers. And while they hadn't spoken to one another as much as Margaery has, some intentions were inferred and at the very least, made aware of.

The prince remained unmatched still but that could very well change and Prince Arianne Martell of Dorne and Lady Margaery Tyrell of Highgarden were the two clear contenders at the moment.

To the winner, go the spoils.

"I, Prince Doran Martell, ruling prince of Dorne, and Lord of Sunspear, promise to be faithful to King Robert Baratheon and his heir, Prince William the Conqueror. I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. I swear this, by the Old Gods and the New."

"Tywin Lannister, Lord of Casterly Rock, and Warden of the West."

The Lord of Casterly Rock stepped away from his immediate family, Cersei and Tyrion and stepped forward to the prince. Tywin had spoken with Will, to make up for what Gregor Clegane had done and the prince assured him there was no grudge or slight. He assured Lord Tywin that he was fine and that he wanted no quarrel with the Westerlands, and his main duty was the peace and protection of the realm. They even spoke about future business endeavors that would be beneficial for both parties.

Cersei's blunder did not negatively affect him and even more so, Tywin would be sure to reign her in from now on. She kept her distance for the rest of the tourney except for this moment. With this swearing, he wanted her present for two reasons. One, it would look bad upon her if she didn't attend. Two, to give her a close up look at just how out of depth she was in this. For so long she had underestimated William. He not only has managed to keep living despite her best intentions, but he has also managed to outsmart her. This swearing ensured that Prince William Baratheon was recognized by all the lords of the Seven Kingdoms as heir so she could say anything she wanted but Joffrey would never be King and if she tried, it would be treason.

She and House Lannister were backed into a corner and with the allies at his disposal and all the bad blood Cersei has fostered, the prince had more than enough to ensure House Lannister's destruction. The only reason he hasn't done it yet is because he's not a battle-driven madman but if Cersei pushes him too far, then it will be fury. With reluctance, Tywin found himself in the bind curtesy of his idiotic daughter, so he knelt before the prince and made his oath.

"I, Tywin Lannister, Lord of Casterly Rock and Warden of the West, promise to be faithful to King Robert Baratheon and his heir, Prince William the Conqueror. I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. I swear this, by the Old Gods and the New."

"Eddard Stark, Lord of Winterfell, and Warden of the North."

Ned walked up to his nephew with a smile of pride on his face. No matter what, the North would always rally behind his nephew. His blood was that of the North through his sister and she would be so proud of him. And he was glad that he was back in Westeros. Perhaps he could arrange for his nephew to visit him at Winterfell. He has yet to see the North and before he becomes beholden to King's Landing for the rest of his life, some time spent in the land of his mother and her ancestors would be good.

"I, Eddard Stark, Lord of Winterfell, and Warden of the North, promise to be faithful to King Robert Baratheon and his heir, Prince William the Conqueror. I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. I swear this, by the Old Gods and the New."

"Grand Maester Pycelle."

"I, Grand Maester Pycelle and the order of the Maesters promise to be faithful to King Robert Baratheon and his heir, Prince William the Conqueror. I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. I swear this, by the Old Gods and the New."

"Lord Petyr Baelish, Master of Coin."

Lord Baelish did the same as everyone before him. Kneeling and swearing his oath of fealty to the crown prince. Prideful and arrogant bastard. Still, Baelish wasn't completely out of chances or opportunities for his own schemes. He just needed some chaos. Chaos was a ladder after all.

How well that chaos would work for him though was debatable.

"I, Lord Petyr Baelish, Master of Coin promise to be faithful to King Robert Baratheon and his heir, Prince William the Conqueror. I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. I swear this, by the Old Gods and the New."

"Lord Varys, Master of Whispers."

"I, Varys, Master of Whispers, promise to be faithful to King Robert Baratheon and his heir, Prince William the Conqueror. I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. I swear this, by the Old Gods and the New."

"Lord Renly Baratheon, Master of Law."

"I, Renly Baratheon, Master of Law, promise to be faithful to King Robert Baratheon and his heir, Prince William the Conqueror. I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. I swear this, by the Old Gods and the New."

"Stannis Baratheon, Lord Paramount of the Stormlands, Master of Ships and Lord of Storm's End."

"I, Stannis Baratheon, Lord Paramount of the Stormlands, Master of Ships and Lord of Storm's End, promise to be faithful to King Robert Baratheon and his heir, Prince William the Conqueror. I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. I swear this, by the Old Gods and the New."

"Hand of the King Jon Arryn, Lord of the Eyrie, and Warden of the East."

"I, Jon Arryn, Hand of the King, Lord of the Eyrie, and Warden of the East, promise to be faithful to King Robert Baratheon and his heir, Prince William the Conqueror. I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. I swear this, by the Old Gods and the New."

With the last oath sworn to the prince and the king, William turned to face his father sitting on the Iron Throne and knelt. He would now swear his oath.

"I, William Baratheon, promise to be faithful to King Robert Baratheon, the Iron Throne, and the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros. I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. And by my life, I shall honor the throne, the title of prince, and protect the crown. I swear this by the Old Gods and the New."

After he was done, William stood up as did Robert. He looked down at his son with all the pride a father could muster. In that moment, Robert got a glimpse of the young boy he would chase around in the training yards or spend time with in his room. A boy so full of life and carefree when times were simpler. But now, stood as a man, ready for great responsibility. He has been ready for a long time and Robert knew that when the time came…he would be a great king.

"I, Robert Baratheon, the First of his name, King of the Andals and the First Men, Lord of the Seven Kingdoms and Protector of the realm, do hereby reaffirm my naming of William Baratheon as Crowned Prince of Dragonstone, and heir to the Iron Throne."

William and everyone bowed their heads after the king's decree. Father and Son shared a gaze and in that moment, the next chapter of both their lives had begun. William turned around to face the nobles and lords before him before he unsheathed Blackfyre and raised it up high.

"HAIL!" Ser Barristan shouted.

"HAIL!"

The lords and nobles shouted, and it echoed throughout the room. A new chapter in the history of Westeros was about to begin.

End of Chapter 17

Game of Thrones: Histories and Lore of Westeros and Essos

The Iron Throne by William Baratheon

The seat of power for the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros, The Iron Throne. Residing in the Red Keep of King's Landing it was a throne forged in battle, blood, and established the realm as we know it. Ask any child in the Seven Kingdoms and they can tell you about the Iron Throne. For many, the first time they see it, they are in awe and wonder. The legendary seat of Aegon the Conqueror where King after King has sat since the Seven Kingdoms became one.

All I can think when I see it? It can't be comfortable to sit on.

The tale of the Iron Throne is the tale of House Targaryen and the formation of the crown and the Seven Kingdoms. The Targaryen Dynasty united the Seven Kingdoms and began a kingdom forged by blood and war. The Iron Throne itself was forged from the thousand swords surrendered to Aegon in his conquest. Melted down by the fire of Aegon's dragon, Balerion the Black Dread, and formed into the monstrosity that now stands at the end of the Throne room. In some accounts, there used to be more swords surrounding the throne and would protrude from the ground as it if was a in a sea of steel. Before the reign of the Mad King, those extra swords were removed to give it a more simple look.

The few times my father has sat upon the throne he says it's a seat that one shouldn't plan to spend a lot of time sitting on. It was uncomfortable and extra thick clothing was worn to protect the sitter from being cut. If you believe the legends, it was by design. Aegon the Conqueror wanted his heirs to never sit upon his throne carelessly as a lesson. The lesson being that if you sit upon the throne, you are not careless but mindful at all times. I can understand the logic but given the history that followed, clearly the lesson was not learned by many.

Another legend says that the throne itself will mark a worthy and unworthy king. The difference being that an unworthy king will find himself pricked upon the swords of the throne and the worthy shall not. During the latter years of the Mad King's reign and his growing madness, I heard he often would cut himself on the throne whenever he sat upon it. If the stories are true than he was often referred to as King Scab more than the Mad King, though never to his face.

Another account dates back two centuries ago when King Viserys the First sat upon the throne. Many say he was a good king. He kept the realm at peace after the time of King Jaehaerys the first, but he found himself pricked by the throne and it led to his ultimate death at the hands of a sickness that ate away at his body. If the records are to be believed, the man was more skeleton than skin by the time of his death. Clearly the throne was right to prick him because after his death the Dance of Dragons began. If he was a smart and better king, it wouldn't have happened and House Targaryen wouldn't have died out but then again, many wouldn't complain about that.

I'm of mixed feelings when I look at the throne. On the one hand, it is the seat of my father and one day will be mine. On the other hand, I can't help but think of all the innocent lives lost before it. My grandfather Rickard Stark and my Uncle Brandon were killed before it, the Mad King laughing for his own amusement. According to Ser Arthur Dayne, many lost their lives to his insanity as he sat upon the throne and watched in demented glee. I suppose it is the cruel twist of fate for it was also where the Mad King made his last stand.

It was before the Iron Throne that the Mad King's reign of terror ended when Ser Jaime Lannister stabbed Aerys Targaryen through the back with his sword. My uncle told me how he and others entered the throne room to see Aerys dead on the ground and Ser Jaime sitting on the throne. Whether it was out of some duty to the people, the orders of Tywin Lannister or perhaps in self-defense, no one knows because Ser Jaime has been rather silent on the subject, but I intend to figure out the truth one day.

I'm still unsure how I feel about one day sitting on the Iron Throne. I'm prepared for the responsibility, but I can't help but wonder if perhaps a new throne should be made. One that isn't as uncomfortable.

Either way, when the time comes for me to sit upon it…I plan to bring a cushion.

Valyrian Steel by Ser Arthur Dayne

Iron chainmail and steel plate over the chest. Metal gauntlets over the hands and greaves over the legs. A visored helm over the skull. A knight in full armor can shrug off swords, spears, and axes. I've seen plenty manage to tough through the deadliest of battles and it is only because of their armor that they succeeded. But Valyrian steel will cut through all of that with ease like it was made of cloth.

Valyrian Steel, the pinnacle of metal. Lighter, stronger, and indestructible. You take a whetstone to a Valyrian steel blade, you'll need another whetstone and perhaps another hand to hold it. The secrets to how ancient Valyrians forged their steel was lost to history. Records found in Old Valyria during the prince's excursion there may hold some answers, but I doubt we'd be able to make it as they have done. Legends claim various things such as they wove magical spells into the metal when forging, used dragon fire, and even blood magic. Either way, a Valyrian steel blade is something that mesmerizes all.

All that's left of Valyrian steel is all that remains in the world. There are some that survive at the Citadel as a link in a Maester's chain. A link of Valyrian steel signifies studies of the higher mysteries though if they had seen what I have, they would not be worthy of them. Most Valyrian steel left in the world reside as weapons and great blades held by a lucky few. The prince is especially so because he has many. Two Valyrian steel daggers, one a stiletto-style and another curved with a handle of dragonbone. Either one would be a worthy gift and he has used them to tremendous effect. During the Greyjoy Rebellion, he acquired the Valyrian steel sword Red Rain after killing Hilmar Drumm. A blade colored as red as blood and likely an old relic of House Reyne of the Westerlands.

Upon his travel to Essos, the Prince went to Old Valyria and found the old Lannister Valyrian blade Brightroar. Last used by King Tommen Lannister who sailed to Old Valyria and never returned. It was found next to his body, still in pristine condition. The prince then went to Volantis where a special smith managed to reforge Brightroar and Red Rain into more personal belongings for the Prince. There was so much steel with Brightroar that several additional items were made including the Valyrian steel spikes on the prince's gauntlets. From the old Lannister blade came Wolf's Fang and Storm's Wrath. As personal to the prince as possible, forged with his own blood which gave them each a distinct hue. Wolf's Fang took on the color of snow and ice while Storm's Wrath, as black as night with flecks of gold and red like blood. The swords the prince has used to great effect against his enemies with the extra he's given to others such as his brothers. And as if the gods have blessed him, he recovered Blackfyre, the ancient sword of Aegon the Conqueror.

It is because of the swords that the prince was as successful against Gregor Clegane as he was. The Mountain, for all his strengths and armor has easily dealt anyone he faces but the Prince used his speed and the strength of his swords to cut the man down. If anything, the swords will be remembered for their legendary feats and soon echo through history much like the ancient Valyrian steel swords of Westeros.

One thing is for certain, the prince cherishes and understands the value the swords represent. And they shall make excellent legacies to pass down.

1). Face Claim for Arianne Martell is Sofia Boutella.

I hope you guys liked the chapter. I'm sorry for the delay. It feels like the Blue Wolf has gotten less attention compared to the others and for that I apologize. Don't worry, I still love this story and will see it through to its completion. With William's return, there will be small time skips going forward to get us to the Game of Thrones canon beginning.

Next chapter, Time passes on as William's life back in the Seven Kingdoms begins. The new chapter of his life has begun and some of those moments will take him across the continent. Perhaps a trip down to Dorne, through the Reach, but most importantly of all would be the North. It's long overdue that the prince gets to see the homeland of his mother. Until then!

Updates for June: 6/30 will be another chapter for the Spectacular Spider-man.

Again, thanks to everyone for all the suggestions, reviews, and words of encouragement. Special thanks to Masamune X23, my Beta reader. He gives me a lot of great ideas for this story as well as my other ones as well. Also, thanks to War Sage, JhotoLoraxius, Omni-Creator Kami of Anime and all the other people who PM me with ideas for my stories. Thank you, guys. They help a lot. Also, make sure to check my DeviantArt every now and then for new pics I'll put up. I've made cover photos for about all my stories, but I'll have more pics made so check them out.

Also, not sure if you checked my profile page but I do have a P-A-T-R-E-O-N page now. It's Choejhulkp9 writing endeavor. Don't feel pressured to sign up. Regardless, I still plan on doing what I'm doing. Writing for free and updating on and I'm slowly working on Wattpad. Sorry I'm really bad about that. But for those that would like to help with what they can or are feeling gracious, it would be greatly appreciated. I've got tiers for any small amount. And some exclusive stuff for the time being to start a new possible story. Again, don't feel pressured.

William Baratheon: Son of Robert Baratheon and Lynna Stark, Crown Prince of the Seven Kingdoms and Heir to the Iron Throne, the Blue Wolf, Slayer of the Iron Born, The Wolf of Storms, Breaker of Chains, Wolf of Justice, Stag of Righteousness, William the Conqueror, Khal of Tonitrua (Thunder). Personal sigil, a Seven-Pointed star on top of a Weirdwood tree. In the middle are the sigils of House Baratheon and Stark but halved, splitting them was an arrow and at the arrowhead was broken chains.

Appearance: Stephen Amell

Birthdate: 279AC: 17 years old

Regular Clothing/appearance: Boots, long black or grey trousers, light white tunic/shirt, dark blue/black leather jacket with hood and facemask. Gloves. Vambraces with hidden blades, Valyrian daggers holstered in boots, and Storm's Wrath slung over his left hip. If not jacket than white tunic with a black tailcoat embroidered with blue and gold coloring and a blue winter rose stitched over the heart.

Armor:

Steel plated combat gloves

Steel plated vambraces/forearm guards with Valyrian steel forearm spikes and attached hidden blades.

Light metal leg greaves

Iron plated Samurai Dō (Chest armor) colored black with flecks of dark blue and white with sigil of House Baratheon and Stark. Attached leather shoulder pauldrons with light metal covering.

Steel Barbuta-style helmet.

Royal crown. Gold, silver, and bronze in color composed of stag-like horns and a wolf's head with various gems laid in on the base.

Weapons:

Black/Blue Goldenheart tree Composite Recurve Bow and Arrows usually kept in saddle holster

Small throwing knives looped in belt

Valyrian Steel stiletto dagger & Valyrian Steel Dragonbone dagger holstered in boots

Valyrian steel bastard sword Storm's Wrath holstered around left hip. Black scabbard with a black colored blade streaked with ripples of gold and red.

Valyrian steel bastard sword Wolf's Fang holstered over left shoulder or in saddle holster when riding. Grey scabbard with blue and white colored blade.

Hidden blades taken from assassin and secured on forearm bracers. Attached Phantom Blade on left bracer.

Pouch of small smoke or gas bombs

Valyrian steel sword, Blackfyre, ancient sword of House Targaryen. Keep hidden and locked up for safe keeping, mainly for ceremonial purposes at the moment.

Notable Talents: Expert archer/trained in the Summer isles speed archery, knife thrower with expert aim and marksmanship. Ambidextrous and trained in sword combat by Ser Arthur Dayne and Ser Barristan Selmy. Close combat training by Hundred Eyes. Agile and quick moving, self-trained in parkour, Free running, and urban exploration. Smart and quick thinking on the battlefield. Knowledge of battle tactics, poison, wildlife, history, politics, and economics. Fluent in Low Valyrian, High Valyrian, Summer Tongue, and Dothraki.

Personality: Smart, attentive, wise, honorable up to a point, caring, generous, humble and cares about others. Hates backstabbers, deceivers, people who violate his trust or think they are superior to others. Doesn't like to be treated like a child or an idiot. Unrelenting against his enemies or those who harm innocents or his family. Prone to carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders or self-doubt in certain situations.

Disclaimer: I don't own Game of Thrones or any mentioned properties, all rights belong to their respective owners. I'm just a big fan.