Time for the next chapter hope everyone enjoys
Darkness Reborn
Chapter 30: Setting the Stage.
King's Landing-
Aegon sat as Lilith explained her success to him. Close to twice what she'd hoped for in terms of demons willing to offer their services to them. Such a fighting force would make swift work of any enemy placed before them. Aegon was happy to hear this, though it was when Lilith began explaining about the creation of her new homunculus that Aegon truly began to take interest. She intended to show it to him, after it returned from Meereen. She had left it behind there to learn from one of the demons, who'd offered a rather important bit of magical knowledge that the twins would be highly invested in learning.
This demon, Thraxian carried with him a very interesting bit of knowledge. A spell that he offered as tribute to gain position. The demon of pride knew of a spell that could be used to fuse demons with objects, instead of letting them possess people. Using this spell, a practitioner could bind a demon to a particular object as a means to contain them. The spell was originally used to halt a demon and keep it trapped, but when used on a weapon, it created a powerful, and vicious tool. A demon, trapped in something like a sword, created a living weapon that could empower the wielder, or even possess them.
This was a skill that Lilith had only known in part, from her youth, but the knowledge brought to them by Thraxian would allow her to refine her knowledge and give them the ability to actually create demon weapons. Her homunculus stayed behind in Meereen to learn the skill, while the demon partook in the nightmarish feast. Once it had gorged itself accordingly, and finished teaching the skill to Lilith's puppet, the puppet would bring the demon with it, here to King's Landing, where they could begin practicing the skill themselves.
The creation of such weapons would give them a new avenue to pursue in combat. Such weapons could empower their wielders if they had the strength to use such a tool, while in the same breath, certain demon weapons could possess their wielders, meaning that the power of the weapon could be transferred from person to person.
Either way, the end result was a lot of devastation for their cause.
It went without saying, but Lilith's trip had been more than a little productive.
The following day Aegon asked for several of his family members, his future brides, and a number of others to join him in the Small Council chamber for a discussion.
This mostly consisted of the Tyrell, and Stark entourage, though Lilith, Orepheus, Littlefinger, and Ser Arthur were also present, as was Brienne of Tarth, at Aegon's request.
"I know you're set to leave tomorrow morning, but before you departed there was something I wished to discuss with you all." Aegon addressed the Starks before turning his attention to the rest.
"After discussing it with Ser Arthur, I've come to a decision in regards to the future of the Kingsguard." Aegon began.
"Forgive me, your grace, but I was unaware the future of the Kingsguard was in question. Other than it's current lack of members, of course." Lord Mace noted curiously.
"You all know of my plans to split the kingdom in two. As well as my intention to march on Essos when the time is right. While not duty bound to guard the King's family, historically, the Kingsguard has always protected them. Such a thing would be impossible for seven members, split between two kingdoms, and my campaigns in the east." Aegon explained, earning looks of understanding or realization from most of his fellows.
"After speaking about this issue at length with Ser Arthur, we've both come to the conclusion that only two real options present themselves. Either the Kingsguard must be disbanded and a new organization formed, or the Kingsguard must be expanded, allowing more members to join. Originally the number was set at seven for the seven kingdoms. Well there's more than seven now, and that number is sure to rise as time goes on, so keeping it tied to the number of kingdoms doesn't seem like it will work either. After careful consideration, and not wanting to disband the brotherhood of the Kingsguard, we've come up with a solution." Aegon continued to explain.
"In order to allow for efficiency and focus, the organization of the Kingsguard will be expanded, with new factions being formed within it. I intend to formally rename the Kingsguard to the Order of the White Cloaks, who will collectively be known as the protectors of the royal family, specifically the rulers of each royal line, though this protection will of course be granted to others at the behest of that current ruler. Sansa, Margaery, to protect you, as rulers, and queens, seven guards will be appointed. For Sansa, and her future children, this faction will be known as the Wolf-guard. For Margaery and her children, it will be known as the Rose-guard. Those that protect myself and Lilith will be the Dragon-guard. Though their oaths shall remain the same, I intend to drop the restriction on the members needing to be knights. There aren't many knights in the North, so I wouldn't want to limit your ability to find the best protectors, and of course when I begin forging kingdoms in Essos where there aren't any knights, such a point will be moot regardless. The members of these elite forces should be the most skilled and most loyal of that lands warriors, regardless of what kind of warrior they are. Any questions so far?" Aegon explained his plans to the group. Allowing everyone to consider this rather intricate change.
"I think it's a sensible decision, your grace. It would also make it easier for each group to handle the safety of their specific charges, as that would be their sole focus." Margaery offered first.
"A Wolf-guard, a Rose-guard, and a Dragon-guard, all making up this new order. Of course this allows for new guards to be added as needed, without too much confusion or chaos." Robb agreed after giving it some thought.
"It seemed the most sensible solution to us, Lord Stark." Ser Arthur noted.
"Well it definitely seems sensible, though I suspect you asked all of us here for something more than just informing us of your plans." Olenna Tyrell noted, earning a chuckle from Aegon.
"As astute as always, Lady Olenna. You are correct. The real reason I asked you all here, is not only to tell you of these changes, but to put forth the offer for position within the Wolf-guard, and the Rose-guard. Lady Brienne, as Sansa's sworn shield, and upon your oath to Lady Catelyn you've already sworn to protect the Starks from harm. I would offer you position within the Wolf-guard, as it's first member. The choice of Lord-commander, I would leave in Sansa's hands, but I know she trusts you, and I've seen your skill in battle. The choice is ultimately yours, but should you wish it, I see no why you shouldn't at least be offered such a prestigious position." Aegon answered, earning surprise from Brienne whom shared a look with Sansa whom smiled in agreement with Aegon's words.
"Your grace, I- don't know what to say…" Brienne began.
"You needn't say anything. There's still six other positions that need filled so you're in no rush to answer. Give it some thought though. I know you know the oaths of the Kingsguard. I don't intend to change them. If you agree to serve, you serve for life. I know your oath to Lady Catelyn was concluded with you seeing the Starks returned safely to Winterfell. That day is fast approaching, and I don't know what your plans were upon fulfilling that oath. Just know that if you wish for the position, you have my support." Aegon responded, causing Brienne to take in a deep breath and offer a bow of gratitude.
"Your grace… I don't need to think on it. I will see my oath to Lady Catelyn fulfilled, and upon it's completion, I will gladly join Lady Sansa's Wolf-guard." Brienne declared.
"Very well then. I admire your dedication. It's a rare thing for one to hold so true to their word. I know you'll do well in this." Aegon offered, earning a nod from Brienne.
"Now… we move to the Rose-guard. Ser Loras, and Ser Garlan, I make the offer to the both of you. Ser Loras I know you have experience in service of such a protective force. You guarded King Renly while he was yet alive, and I not hold you at fault for failing to stop his assassination, similarly to Lady Brienne, neither one of you could have stopped the sorcery that Stannis employed to murder your king. It speaks nothing of your skills, or abilities. I also know that the only reason you agreed to join Joffrey's Kingsguard, Ser Loras, was to protect Margaery. I don't hold you at fault for holding true to your original cause and staying with her. I'd offer you and your brother the chance to join the Rose-guard. One has greater experience, the other greater skill, I make the offer because of this, though I wish to emphasize that this is not a command. I do not wish to take two sons away from house Tyrell. I would ask that you discuss it, and come to the decision on your own. There is though, an additional offer for you, Garlan. Your skills and abilities are second to only one, as far as I've seen. Should you wish it, instead of joining the Rose-guard, I offer you a position on my Dragon-guard. Ser Arthur and I agree, that few others have shown such splendid skill and ability as you have." Aegon addressed the Tyrells, earning genuine surprise from them, and thoughtful looks from the two men in question.
"This… is a great honor, your grace." Loras stated with a look of deep reflection on his face.
"I'm truly honored. Very happy to see that you were impressed, you grace. Though, surely you know of my marriage to lady Leonette Fossoway?" Garlan offered with a radiant smirk, before question. He was happy to have earned acknowledgment from the king, and arguably the greatest knight alive, but that point needed to be addressed.
"Well you've earned it, Ser Garlan. Skill such as yours, rarely comes about. I'd be a fool not to make the offer. As for your marriage, I see no reason why you cannot be allowed to fulfill your obligations to your lady wife. The Kingsguard vows, much like those for the men of the Night's Watch, state that you will take no wife, and hold no lands, and father no children, yet, as with all things, a King's word can undo any vow, or offer an exemption if the purpose is true. If you so choose to accept either offer, than I will allow you and your wife to remain wed, and for you to father as many children with as needed to ensure the stability of your line, and holdings as the Lord of Brightwater Keep. Once a child has been raised to take your position, you will then be free to hold to your oaths in full, if that is the path you wish to take." Aegon stated, earning himself a thoughtful look from the second son of House Tyrell.
"This is truly a wonderful opportunity your grace. To join the King's own personal guard, or be one of the founding members of this new Rose-guard, it truly is a great honor." Mace stated, with a bit more excitement than he probably intended to show. The possibility to getting even more out of this alliance than previously thought, was definitely and exciting prospect. If either of his sons joined the Rose-guard, that would emblazon their name throughout history as one of the founding members of this new elite fighting force.
"Other's will have to be found. Even if both of our valiant your Tyrells choose to join, that still leaves seventeen open positions in need of being filled." Littlefinger pointed out.
"Very true Lord Baelish. As I said, we'll wait until all of the positions are filled, before naming a lord commander of the Rose-guard or the Wolf-guard. I've already named Ser Arthur as the Lord-commander of Dragon-guard. The various parts of the order will act autonomously from one another while I'm away, with the main point-of-contact being between the Lord-Commanders who will meet with each other regularly to report on actions, ideas, or problems developing within their areas, or duties. I will speak with my future wives in regards to other potential members as I become aware of them, otherwise I will leave their appointments to them. If I find someone I believe suited for the task than I'll bring them to their attention, otherwise I'll leave the appointment of other members to the two of you. As I noted earlier, it will be the greatest and most loyal warriors from your own regions and kingdoms that you'll choose from. Men, women, knights, soldiers, whatever you deem worthy of the position. So long as they hold true to their oaths once they put on the White Cloak, I care not what kind of fighter they are. I'm certain that both of you will look to those in your life who can best judge what type of warriors should fill the ranks of your guards." Aegon agreed, earning nods from Margaery and Sansa.
"A question, if I may, your grace. Who will run this new order? Will you have it run by a sort of council of the Lord-commanders, or will one be chosen as the head of the order itself?" Orepheus questioned, earning curious looks from the rest.
"As it stands right now, with only three groups, I believe they can work together to handle things. As the Order grows and expands, as more Lord-commanders join, they can decide whether they think a singular leader is required. I will, ultimately leave that decision in their hands, how best to run their organization." Aegon answered the vampire's question.
This gave everyone plenty to think about, and plenty to discuss. Being the only matter of any importance to discuss with them today, Aegon allowed the meeting to end, and spent the rest of the day saying his farewells to the Starks. While he'd be seeing them again in a month or two, for the wedding, it was still difficult to say goodbye.
The following morning, Aegon, Lilith and several others saw the Starks off, watching as they boarded several ships and began sailing to White Harbor.
Both Aegon and Lilith shared a hug with Sansa before she departed, offering their anticipation for their next meeting. Not long after they departed, Aegon and his company headed back towards the Red Keep.
Aegon was speaking with Mace Tyrell as they walked, when Lilith hummed that she was going for a stroll through the city.
"Eager to escape the boredom of politics?" Aegon asked her with a charming smirk.
"Were it true politics than perhaps, but you two are discussing hunting, and I honestly can't be bothered to listen to you brag about how many times you've thrust your spear into a squelling hog." Lilith responded, her words, earning a chuckle from Margaery, while some of the others snickered, while Aegon simply raised an eyebrow at her.
"Would you like some company your grace?" Margaery inquired to Lilith.
"Very much so. I did intend to pass through Flea Bottom, I'm certain the people there would be delighted to see their favorite rose." Lilith answered, causing a demure smile to spread across Margaery's face.
"Try not to have too much fun." Aegon hummed without much thought. Leaving them to their own designs.
Internally, he knew things were about to get very interesting. Today was a very special day.
Over the last several weeks, Lilith had used a mind-controlled Septon to begin gathering dissidents for an attack. Today was the day. They'd ambush the Queen and attempt to kill her. Having Margaery along for the ride would also enrage House Tyrell.
So while Aegon and his entourage headed back towards the Red Keep. Lilith and Margaery headed into the city, followed by Garlan, Loras, Cersei, Tauriel, a number of Margaery's guards, and well as several of her cousins. They travel through the city, chatting about this or that, making their way towards Flea Bottom. The day was bright, brighter than normal, with most of the orcs having left for Harrenhal, so the sky was clear.
The had made it about halfway through the city when a cart backed onto their path, blocking their way forward.
"Move aside, let the Queen pass!" One of the guards shouted with annoyance.
"What's going on?" Margaery inquired, taking note of the situation ahead of them.
"I'm not sure." Lilith hummed in response.
Out of the corner of her eye, she spotted them moving down a back-alley towards her. A troop of men in hooded robes. She his her smile, and kept her face passive.
That was when she heard it. A window opened on the second floor of a building behind them. She heard the heavy draw of a bow, and then the release of an arrow.
She turned, and caught the arrow, mid-flight, it's iron tip mere inches from her face.
The sight of the arrow, drew a surprised look from Margaery when she noticed Lilith's movement. She blinked once, then twice, before realization finally struck.
A vicious smile spread across Lilith's face as the man who'd shot at her, was telepathically pulled from the second floor window. He let out a shriek, drawing everyone's gaze up to him, where his body began to violently contort.
He only held there for a moment before plummeting painfully to the ground. Moments after he hit the street, hooded figures began to race out of the side streets and back-alleys. Several even began climbing over the cart that blocked their path.
It took a moment for everyone to realize that they were being attacked.
Several men emerged out of a side path right next to Lilith. Steel flashed in the air, a heavy swing that would have also cut Margaery. Lilith grabbed her and pulled her down as she ducked the strike.
Lilith had dropped to a knee, and with a motion of the hand she sent her assailant soaring backwards into the corner of the wall, his body violently wrapping around it for a moment, as his back was broken, before tumbling to the ground.
By the time the second man moved to attack Lilith, Tauriel was already on him, shooting forward with her daggers, she cut the man's throat. He went down with a look of surprise, as the elven warrior squared off with the three more men that had emerged from the alley.
Surrounding them a battle was taking place, as more and more cloaked figures swarmed out of side roads, and alleys.
The street was awash with the sound of battle. Men in long gray cloaks had stormed the street in number, and were trying to quickly overwhelm the Tyrell guards and get to Lilith. Each man had the image of the Seven pointed star, the symbol of the Faith of the Seven, carved into their forehead.
Lilith, half dragged Margaery over to a wall and shoved her there, turning just in time to dodge a stab from another man. In a lightning fast movement, she seized the man by the throat and held him aloft.
With a wordless spell, his body exploded in a showed of gore, spraying blood and bones across the street. None of the viscera seemed to touch the queen however, save for what stuck to her bare feet.
Margaery was soon joined by Cersei who crawled under the fighting over to where she was cowering. Margaery's panicked eyes flashed across the battlefield where bodies were already starting to pile up.
Several of her guards and one of her cousins were already dead. The cousin, a girl a year younger than Margaery had her throat slashed and was lying motionless amongst the chaos.
Margaery felt the breath leave her at the sight of her dead family member. Someone she'd known all her life.
By now, Lilith had taken one of the fallen assassin's swords and had waded into the fight, moving with unnatural speed she cut through their attackers, thinning the number of enemies with unparalleled speed.
With supernatural grace, Tauriel was soon by her side, dodging and weaving through the crowd, lashing out with twin daggers. Men fell left and right to elf's blades. None of them could keep up with her speed or agility, and considering most of the attackers were unarmored, they fell with great speed.
As the fighting continued, Lilith glanced around for the Septon. She knew he'd be here.
As she eyed the battle, she caught sight of Loras, pushing aside one of his cousins, saving her from the murderous strike of one of the assassin. He then swift cut him down. His victory was short lived, as a dagger pierced through the back of his throat, causing the young knight's eyes to go wide.
His cousin let out a shriek as she saw him go down, his body collapsing as the knife severed his spine.
A moment later, Lilith heard a roar of rage that came from Garlan as he saw his brother go down. His fury ignited in that moment, and like a man possessed he cut through two, then three assailants, all in a mad big to reach the one who'd stabbed his brother in the back.
Within what seemed like an instant, he was on him. The man barely put up a fight as Garlan barreled into him, driving him hard into a wall, and driving his sword straight into the man's chest with a cry of rage and anguish.
Lilith watched him rip his blade free of the man, forcing the assassin to his knees in the process. He then beheaded him. Like some sort of demon, he then turned to the next assassin, and charged at him. Adding yet another kill to his already incredible count.
Lilith heard a man go down behind her. She glanced back to find Tauriel on top of the man, her daggers dug deep into his back. She pulled them free and glanced up at Lilith.
Lilith met her gaze, and offered a small smile, knowing full well that Tauriel had killed the man before he could attack Lilith while her back was turned. Even if his weapon would have only broken on contact with her, it was the thought that ultimately counted.
"Men of House Tyrell! Stand down! Give over this abomination to us, and your lives will be spared!" Came the shout of the Septon. Lilith's eyes turned to him, and she spotted him standing atop the cart that had been used to block their path.
As his words filled the air, the assassins stopped their attack, holding back for a moment. By now, most of the Tyrell guard was dead. Out of the twelve guards, only five were still standing. Meanwhile nearly twenty-five cloaked bodies, lay strewn about at their feet, though about that number remained standing.
"Give us the Queen, and you will be allowed to leave with your lives!" The Septon declared.
"Hand over the abomination!" Came the shout of a woman, a Septa who appeared on the cart beside the Septon.
Lilith felt a hellish grin spread across her face, her hands began to twitch, envisioning his throat in them.
"This is your only chance! I wont ask again." The Septon declared, only for a monstrously loud roar to pierce the air.
Lilith's grin grew predatory as Midir fell out of the clouds and landed on a rooftop at the far end of the street. The Dragon's massive bulk filled the air as it stared down at them, fire and smoke flaming from it's mouth the dragon more than willing to see the whole block on fire, if his master demanded it.
The sight of the dragon's colossal size broke many of the would-be crusaders out of their holy-righteousness. Men began to back away in terror as the monster leered down at them.
Suddenly another snarl filled the air, this one much more bestial. Out of one of the side-alleys Ghost came flying, the massive wolf barreled into a trio of men, catching one by the head as the other two were smashed into a wall by his bulk.
Most eyes were drawn towards the white wolf, and in that moment, Lilith chose to act. With a motion, she lifted several surrounding enemies into the air, and tossed them violently again the nearby walls, their bodies smashing helpless against stone and wood before collapsing onto the ground below.
The twenty-five or so attackers, was no reduced to only eighteen, and as Lilith began striding towards the blockade where the Septon stood, the last of the courage of these assassin was shown.
One man, made to charge at her. He made it several feet before Lilith waved her hand, and his skin and clothes exploded off of his body.
The man stood there for a moment, all of his flesh having been peeled away. Several seconds passed before he began screaming. He dropped to his knees and grabbed at himself. The sight of the man, flayed in an instant, broke most of those still standing. The Septon stared down at her with absolute disbelief and terror, as Lilith advanced on him.
The man, and his allied Septa, turned to hop off the cart and run, the Septon throwing one final command to his followers to kill her. Two made to stand in her way, though they had little in the way of resolve.
Neither looked like they would try to attack, even if Lilith did get close enough for them to do so, but still, she didn't give them the chance to attempt such foolishness. From either hand, she released a bolt of red magic that punched a hole clean through either man.
Both collapsed to the ground, leaving the path clear for Lilith to continue her advance. She pulled herself up onto the cart, and glanced around for the runaway duo. Both were gone, just as Lilith had intended. The Septon would lead his remaining cohorts to the Sept of Balor. There they would try to pray for divine retribution to fall upon Lilith for her evil and abominable acts. The answer they got, would come in the form of Aegon.
Lilith turned back to the street as an anguished cry caught her ears.
By now, Lilith's allies were chasing off what remained of their attackers, with Ghost killing another two, as did Garlan. Margaery was the one who had screamed, her eyes coming upon Loras' fallen form. She was over him now, holding his head to her chest and she cried out in despair.
Garlan made his way over to her, alongside one of his two surviving cousins and his wife. The other cousin was screaming over the body of her fallen sister.
Garlan soon knelt beside his sister, reaching his hand out and placing it on Loras' chest.
Margaery continued to wail, letting out anguish sobs as she held her beloved brother to her.
"My Lord… we have to leave this place. They could come back at any moment. We have to get somewhere safe." One of the Tyrell guards spoke towards Garlan, drawing the elder brother's gaze.
A fire burned brightly in Garlan's eyes as he stared back at his household guard. He knew the man was right, but he wasn't about to leave the body of his little brother behind.
As he stared up at him, Lilith entered into view. She approached them and knelt opposite Margaery and Garlan.
Margaery slowly raised her tearful gaze until it met with Lilith's.
"Please… isn't there anything… anything at all?" Margaery uttered in desperation.
"He is dead my dear. There are few ways to raise a person from the dead, and each one is costly. Your brother is a knight, and he gave his life protecting his family. Would you really have me make him into a monster?" Lilith replied calmly.
"…" Margaery's lack of response was telling. She stared at Lilith for several long moments before lowering her gaze to the face of her dead brother.
After a few moments she leaned down and kissed his forehead, leaving a tearful apology behind as she did.
As she did this, Lilith rose to her feet and began walking away from them.
"Queen Lilith?" Garlan's wife called out after her.
"I know those men. I'm going to kill them. If you'd like to partake in a bit of vengeance you may join me." Lilith spoke over her shoulder before continuing on. Ghost was quickly by her side, stalking along with her as with a motion she blasted the cart that had been used to block their path, to pieces.
"Look out for them. Help should be here soon." Garlan spoke to his household guards. He earned nods from them as he rose to his feet and began following after the Queen.
"Garlan…" His wife spoke softly, taking note of her husbands fury. Never before had she seen such anger in his eyes. He spared her nary a glance as he caught up with Lilith.
This was all observed by Midir who soon took flight and began circling high above the city, watching and waiting for his master to call him down to lay waste to those that had tried to harm her.
"Stay with them." Tauriel said to Cersei, before moving to join her master. Cersei was more than happy to stay behind. Unwilling to partake in whatever form of vengeance her master sought to unleash upon these people.
Garlan and Tauriel soon flanked Lilith as she stalked through the city. Ghost was ahead of them, his presence causing a path to clear of people. He and Lilith both seemed to know exactly where they were going.
Along the way, Ghost came to a stop at a storefront, and turned his gaze into it.
Lilith caught up to the wolf and turned her gaze to the store as well. After a moment of contemplation she stepped into the store, followed closely by Garlan and Tauriel.
"Greetings, how can I…?" Came the question from the shop owner, only for his to stop when he realized who it was.
He began to visibly pale as Lilith stepped around the counter and moved towards the back of the shop. Tauriel was the first to notice the bloody hand print on the side of the entrance into the back.
"Wait!" The store owner spoke, only for the upper half of his body to erupt in a shower of blood.
Tauriel averted her eyes from the sight while Garlan stared on impassively. Soon the two joined Lilith as she entered the back of the store. There they found a man and a woman. The man was shirtless, a deep gash running along his chest. Upon his forehead was that accursed symbol that marked him as one of the assassins. He was breathing heavily and his eyes filled with panic when he spotted Lilith.
Piled on the floor was a bloody cloak which Lilith dropped her gaze too and than leaned down to pick up.
She examined it, taking note that it was the same as the one worn by their attackers.
The woman was standing between her and the wounded man, her face reflecting fear as she tried in vain to speak.
Lilith made a motion with her hand which caused the woman's head to rotate a full circuit around. Her body crumbled like a sack of potatoes after that. The wounded man let out a cry of rage, and grabbed a dagger that lay concealed on the shelf next to him. He held it in threat towards Lilith only for the dagger to rip free of his grasp, spin in the air, and impale itself into his chest, lifting him into the air as it did.
Lilith watched on with malice as the man was held in the air, his dagger being pushed through his body by her magic.
All three watched as the bloody dagger emerged out of his back, and his body collapsed to the ground.
Once he was dead the dagger fell as well and the trio headed out of the shop, where Ghost was ready to lead them onward.
By now, several of the city guard had approached to try and get a read on the situation.
When they saw it was the queen, they offered a bow.
"Some men just tried to kill me and the Tyrells. We're going to go and return the favor. Care to join us?" Lilith inquired as she passed them.
The quartet of city watch quickly followed after the queen, as she and her two companions were led towards the Sept of Balor by Ghost.
As the Sept came into view, Garlan spoke for the first time.
"These assassins. Each one bore the seven pointed star, carved into their forehead." Garlan noted.
"Yes. And they were lead by the preacher, Septon Martin." Lilith responded.
Garlan's face twisted at that, as he remembered seeing the Septon several times over the last several weeks. Speaking against the evils of magic, and trying to guide the populace away from their support of the King and Queen. Was that the reason for this attack? Had his brother died due to the damnable beliefs of the Faith?
As they reached the base of the stairs leading up to the Sept, the shadow of Midir fell from the sky and landed upon the roof of the great building.
The dragon's massive size, almost covered the structure, such as it was. They were halfway up the stairs when the air twisted behind them, and with a loud pop, Aegon, Ser Arthur, and Annatar appeared.
"Lilith!" Aegon called out to her, stopping her advance.
She glanced back at him, offering him a look at the fury present on her face, before turning back towards the Sept and continuing her march.
"Lilith, what happened?" Aegon called out to her, racing up to her.
"We were attacked by Septon Martin and his faith-obsessed dogs. He and his fellows are hiding inside the Sept. I'm just here to get them." Lilith responded.
Aegon reacted with surprise at hearing that, blinking several times as if the news shocked him.
After a moment his gaze passed over Tauriel and settled onto Ser Garlan, whom met the King's eyes with a cold, unflinching stare.
"They killed him, your grace. They killed my brother… They killed my cousin..." Garlan answered the unasked question. His words drawing a sigh from Aegon who lowered his gaze and let out a sigh. He then raised his eyes towards the Sept staring up at it for several long moments before shaking his head.
"Kill whomever you must, but bring Septon Martin to me. He will answer for his crimes before the people of King's Landing." Aegon declared after a moment of thought.
Lilith made a noise to show that she'd heard him, though otherwise made no move to halt her advance.
Lilith, Tauriel, and Garlan made it to the entrance of the Sept. The doors were shut and barred, but that did little to halt Lilith's advance. Without even a motion, the doors exploded inward, showering the interior with their fragments and earning a cry of fear and panic from those within.
Inside, the Septon was preaching to his followers. Gathered around were many of the faithful, nearly a hundred people in total, some of which bore the Seven-Pointed Star carved into their foreheads.
Almost as a unit, they turned to face the invading trio. Ghost stood behind Lilith's party, watching with a keen and perceptive gaze as his master's lover made it to the top of the steps that led into the heart of the Sept.
"You wanted me? Here I am." Lilith declared with a smirk.
From outside, Aegon stared up at the structure, a crowd slowly gathering around the base of the Sept.
Midir's growls, and simple presence drawing many a curious onlooker.
Several long moments passed before Lilith and her companions reappeared. Garlan dragging along Septon Martin, who was kicking and screaming.
Tauriel lagged a bit behind Lilith and the enraged knight, Ghost trailing beside the despondent elf whom looked sick to her stomach.
The frothing Septon was dragged before Aegon and forced to his knee before the King, as the crowd of onlookers grew and began growing more animated.
"Septon Martin… you stand accused of attacking the Queen and the members of House Tyrell in the streets of King's Landing, do you deny it?" Aegon spoke, his voice piercing the air, and carrying out across the whole area, causing silence to spread.
"This has to end! This abomination, must die!" Martin howled, trying to lunge at Lilith, only for Arthur and Garlan to force him back to the ground.
"You don't deny it?" Aegon asked quietly, his look one that was nearly unreadable.
"YOU'VE ALL SEEN HER! SHE IS A MONSTER! A DEVIL! SHE WILL DAMN US ALL! WE HAVE TO DESTROY HER!" The Septon frothed, as Aegon drew his sword.
"You murdered innocent people today. You and your Faith. You murdered good, kind people, all to try and kill my wife. This woman has done more for the people of this city, than your Faith ever has! The Tyrells have done more for the people of this city, than your Faith ever has!" Aegon growled in anger, his words earning righteous cheers from the lowborn who could all hear his words.
"You don't understand! None of you do! She is an abomination!" The Septon rattled off like a man possessed.
"I've heard enough. Septon Martin, for your crimes I, Aegon of house Targaryen and Stark, sentence you to die. Speak your last words and let us be done with this." Aegon growled with ever growing fury.
As he made his declaration, a stone rose from the ground beneath the condemned man, courtesy of Lilith's magic. As it appeared, the man was pulled down over it by magic, forced to assume the position to allow for his execution.
"WE ARE DAMNED! DOOMED I TELL YOU! SHE WILL BE THE DEATH OF US, OF ALL OF US! REPENT! CONFESS YOUR SINS! SEEK SALVATION! ONLY THE SEVEN KNOW! ONLY THE SEVEN CAN SAVE US!" The man screamed as Aegon swung his sword, beheading him, and silencing his ranting.
As his head rolled down the steps, Aegon turned to the crowd.
"Spread the word… as of this moment, the Faith of the Seven is called upon to answer for this crime. An attack on the Queen in the streets of our capitol is a declaration of war. All who are willing to preach and practice their faith in peace, are commanded to kneel before the authority of the crown. All who refuse, shall be put to the sword. No longer will so-called pious men, plot and scheme in their ivory sanctuaries. This land was ruled by kings, thousands of years before the Faith of the Seven came to be. Those who refuse to adhere to that authority, or seek to undermine it, will be cast down, humbled, and destroyed. The Faith tried to murder your queen for daring to use her powers to help you. I know it is hard to accept at times, I know it is hard to see things for what they truly are, but we cannot deny it any longer. Their god, with his seven faces, has done nothing for us. The New Gods did not heal your bodies, the New Gods did not free you from the tyranny of the mad tyrant Joffrey. I believe in the things my eyes behold. So here and now, I demand the Faith prove to me, to all of us, the power of their so-called gods. If those gods would seek to shackle us with their rules, and their laws, than they must prove their power. I have seen true power, I have seen what magic can do. I no longer believe in fairy tales." Aegon declared, his words, though spoken with authority, came out in an even tone. It was with barely contained vitriol that Aegon spoke these words, as if fighting to keep from losing his composure.
His words earned cheers of agreement from the crowd. The Faith had done nothing for these people all their lives. While they starved and rotted on the streets, the Septons and Septas did nothing but preach. The Tyrells had fed them. The King had saved them. The Queen had healed them. Aegon was right. The only true power in the world, was clear as day for them to see. If the New Gods wanted authority over them, than they had to prove their power.
As agreement rose within the crowd, Midir let out a roar, belching fire into the air, to the spectacle of the crowd.
While Aegon stood before the crowd, his gaze heavy, and his focus primed, Lilith stood above him on the steps, her blazing eyes passing over the thousands of gathered onlookers.
She hid her smile well. Her plan had worked perfectly, and none were the wiser. She had mind-controlled Septon Martin with a practiced ease, using compulsion charms to get him to act exactly how she wanted him too. Now she had sown the seeds for the Faith's destruction.
With Aegon's decree, the Faith would be split. Some would choose to fight, and their actions were condemn them in the eyes of those who looked to Aegon and Lilith as saviors.
Though a regrettable loss, the death of Ser Loras, would serve as the perfect gaurantee that the Faith would never again sow it's seeds in the capitol. It had taken their a son from them, it had taken a daughter as well. Lilith had intended for one or more of Margaery's cousins to fall in the attack. Ser Loras, and Ser Garlan being there had not factored into her plans, but it worked just as well. Loras' death would further drive home the resentment that house Tyrell would now hold for the Faith.
With Sansa ruling from the Northern kingdom, where the only place the Faith had any power was in the Riverlands, that Kingdom would soon be lost to the New Gods. With Lilith's plan executed to completion, she now ensured that it would hold no power here in the South either. In time, it would be further dismantled. A false-flag attack here, a mind-controlled zealot there. All the while Aegon and Lilith continued to earn the love of the people, highborn and lowborn alike.
Everything was perfect.
Later the atmosphere within the Red Keep was depressing.
The Tyrells were naturally heartbroken by the loss of two of there own. What had been an exciting time, with the offer from the king to have the valiant Knight of the Flowers join one of the prestigious guard groups, had ended with his untimely death.
As predicted, the Tyrells wanted nothing more to do with the Faith of the Seven. Their own personal Septa was dismissed. Mace Tyrell even sent a letter to his son Willas telling him what had happened and ordering him to have all those within the Sept at Highgarden thrown out of the castle.
Aegon offered his deepest and most sincerest of condolences to the Tyrells for their loss, offering them anything that he could to try and mend the fresh wound to their hearts.
They asked for nothing, as justice had already be carried out against those that had murdered their family members.
While the Tyrells dealt with the deaths of there family members, Aegon took the opportunity to send Annatar back to Mordor.
By now Celebrimbor's wraith should have been summoned back to the physical plain and bound to the Black Hand. If everything went according to plan, than he'd need to begin work on binding the wraith to his avatar, so that he could begin using Celebrimbor's skill and knowledge to begin work on improving the Rings of Power.
Already Aegon had several ideas that he wanted to attempt, and there was still the possibility of forging further rings, or even replacing the lost Dwarven Rings, so he was excited to get to work on that.
With the Tyrell host making things more melancholic around the castle, and Margaery being despondent, it gave Aegon plenty of reason to begin pursuing other hobbies while he allowed his future wife to grieve for her brother.
His intention being, to return to smithing. He had only taken a mild interest in it, as Jon Snow, occasionally watching the Smith at Winterfell do his work, so Aegon would need some time to generate an organic interest in the skill, before 'learning' how to do it. After a few weeks, he could begin showing his prodigal skill in the art, and eventually allow his true skill to show. He had always had an eye for crafting, and he took to it with impossible ease when he came to study under Aulë. Many thought that it was his study under Aulë that had made him such an excellent craftsman but in truth, Sauron didn't really know how he had become so skilled at making things. Aulë had refined his skills, and had helped to inspire his mastery in ring-making, but since the beginning, for as long as he could remember, Sauron had always been an artist when it came to the forge.
Where such a skill had manifested from, was a point of wonderment for the Dark Lord, but no answer ever came. He had no idea how, or where he gained such skill from, only that he had it for as long as he could remember, and that under Aulë, his skills had been refined to a razors edge.
So, naturally, he was eager to return to the craft, and he was now offered the opportunity to get back to it, as well as a reason to want to pursue it. The natural idea of wanting to make something as a gift to mend the broken heart of someone you cared for. Margaery was to be his wife, and was someone he had a growing attraction towards. While the loss of Ser Loras was regrettable, he agreed with Lilith that it definitely served their purposes.
So things were allowed to progress.
A day passed, than two. It was then that Aegon learned from his Avatar what had transpired in Mordor.
The ritual to summon Celebrimbor and bind him to a mortal form had, in-part been successful. The wraith had manifested, and yet, he did not bind himself to the Black Hand, as the ritual had intended.
His spirit was within Mordor, yet where it had gone too was a mystery.
Aegon was left deeply annoyed by this, though he couldn't begrudge the old Elven Lord for continuing to be a pain in his ass.
Aegon would use his Avatar, and his agents to find where the Wraith was hiding, for now he'd focus his attention here. By all accounts, his campaign in Mordor was going incredibly well. Mannish fortifications and settlements fell left, right, and center, before the onslaught of his forces. Especially in lands like Núrn where the various tribes turned on each other, some siding with the orcs, to try and gain favor. Saruman's actions had definitely bore fruit there, though the White Wizard had yet to return to them so they didn't know what all could be pinned on his as a cause.
Another day went by, and Aegon chose to go before Daenerys one more time. This time, he asked Maester Aemon to speak with her first, his hope being that she would relent upon seeing a pure blooded Targaryen, and hearing him speak highly of Aegon. If this didn't work, than Aegon would be left with little other choice but to once more demand Daenerys' compliance.
"It is a pleasure to finally meet you." Aemon spoke from outside of Daenerys' cell.
"Who are you?" Daenerys asked, blinking several times before taking note of Aemon's eyes, and how they were a reflection of her own.
"I am Maester Aemon, formerly of house Targaryen. Long have I hoped for this meeting, and yet, each time I envisioned it, I could never quite determine what to say. By all accounts, you are a spitting image of your mother, though I never knew her so I cannot say if that is true. I do know one thing. You are most certainly a Targaryen."Aemon spoke, as he gazed at her with care.
"You, you're the one he spoke of. My Granduncle. I… pictured you being much older." Daenerys replied to him, as she stepped up to the bars.
"I was. Queen Lilith restored my youth with a potion she calls the Elixir of Life. It made me young again. Restored my sight, so that I may look upon the new faces of our house. The blood of the dragon runs strong in you, my dear." Aemon offered to her.
"Thank you for saying that. Why are you here, Maester Aemon? Why didn't you come sooner?" Daenerys asked.
"I wished to speak with you. I have since the moment I first heard of you. Stories from the east, the Breaker of Chains, and Mother of Dragons. Surely a story worth hearing. As for the reason I did not come sooner. A selfishness, on my part, I'm sorry to say. I know why it must be this way, but it breaks my heart to see you held within this cage. I know what you believe, and why you believe it, and I know after what has happened between you two, that it would take an act of great strength to forgive him for the hurt he caused you. I do not wish for there to be fighting between us, yet I knew if I stood before you, my heart would be torn. A just and honorable king, and a just and honorable queen. Both fighting for what they believe is right. Both capable of great and terrible things. I wished not to be in the middle of it, torn between two causes, that, on their own, could hold equal merit. I was selfish in that, and I offer my apologies, for leaving you alone. Though I do not ask your forgiveness for it." Aemon explained to her, earning a soft look from Daenerys, as she digested his reply, and finally accepted his response.
"Did Aegon send you?" Daenerys asked after a few moments. "He has not been to see me since Ser Arthur was last here."
"He has been preoccupied. Those of the Faith sought to murder the Queen in the streets, and now there is fear of another Faith Militant uprising." Aemon offered to her, earning surprise from Daenerys, as well as Barristan who was no listening in.
"Why? Why did they try to kill the queen?" Daenerys asked, unsure of what to make of that.
"The Faith sees magic as an abomination. They cannot see past it. Despite all of the awful she had done with that magic, she had done so much good as well. She has used her powers to heal the sick of their injuries and diseases. She has helped to rebuild this city from the damage done to it during Aegon's reconquest. They cannot see past their own beliefs, to see that while there is great darkness in her, there is also light. As much as it may pain some to believe, such a thing cannot be allowed to pass. If the Faith would attack the Queen for using her magic to heal others, than how long before they attacked the King for doing the same?" Aemon shook his head, and let out a tired sigh at that.
"Aegon… uses his magic to help people?" Daenerys blinked at that, earning a look from Aemon.
"He does. He often joins Queen Lilith or even Lady Margaery on trips down to Flea Bottom, to walk amongst the people. To speak with them, and use their powers to heal them of their ills. I know what the Blue Wizard has told you, but I can promise you that Aegon is not an evil man. He goes far and above what would be needed to earn the loyalty of his people. I know you know what that is like. You know what it takes to earn the love of those who are desperate for someone, anyone, to save them." Aemon answered back, his eyes now settled on Daenerys.
Daenerys was quiet for several long moments, as she rested her head against the bars of her cage. Finally she lifted her eyes to Aemon once more.
"I'd like to continue this talk, Maester Aemon, I truly would. But first, I feel I need to speak with Aegon. If you could, ask him to come and speak with me, I would truly be grateful." Daenerys asked, earning a soft smile from Aemon.
"I will go and speak with him right now. I also look forward to our next conversation. I do have quite a few questions about your travels, and I'm curious to learn about the cities of Slaver's Bay." Aemon answered, Daenerys nodding in agreement with him.
Several long minutes passed before Aegon entered the room.
He approached the cell, and stood before Daenerys with a calculating gaze.
"I've been doing a lot of thinking." Daenerys began.
"What about?" Aegon asked, with genuine curiosity.
"The situation I've found myself in. At first I thought I knew everything, knew what you were. Now I'm not sure what to believe. I've seen how vicious you can be, yet others have sworn to your kindness, and caring nature. I… felt a connection to you… during our time in Meereen. You were honest with me, sometimes brutally. I have to know the truth… I thought you were Sauron… But Rómestámo told us that Sauron was Annatar, yet Ser Arthur says that you and Annatar are two separate people. We also thought that your Sorceress might be Sauron, but from Rómestámo's reaction to meeting her, I know she's something else entirely. I must know the truth. Please… if you truly wish for their to be peace between us, if you truly want this to end… then tell me what is going on. What are you?" Daenerys laid bare her position.
Her gaze was almost pleading. She desperately needed to know, to understand. She wanted so badly to have a family, to be with her family, to go home, and live in peace. If Rómestámo had lied to her, or misled her, than she needed to know it, needed to understand.
"You wish for the truth? Alright then. The truth is… I am Sauron. Or perhaps it's better to say, I am the inheritor of Sauron." Aegon began.
"What does that mean?" Daenerys asked.
"Rómestámo told you of Sauron, did he not? How he was defeated long ago, though his spirit persisted?" Aegon inquired, earning a nod he continued. "His spirit found it's way here, and under the guise of Annatar it began tracking down a means to restore Sauron to full power. Eventually he met our family in Valyria, and used his magic to save us from the Doom. For years he watched over us, and used his magic to strengthen the blood of the dragon in our veins. His goal was to create the perfect vessel for his power. For generations he did this. Each subsequent generation being stronger than the last. The inbreeding helped speed up the process, keeping our bloodline relatively pure. Eventually though, Sauron came to admire the Starks, and their powers as well, so he chose to unite the blood of the Dragon, with the blood of the Wolf to make the perfect vessel. It was Sauron's goal to have one of Rhaegar's children, marry and have a child with the children of Lyanna and Robert, which would create a child with the blood of the Wolf, and the Dragon, while also being a unity of the four great bloodlines of Westeros, the Valyrians, Andals, Rhoynar, and First Men. Rhaegar had different plans though, when he chose to take my mother as his wife. With the Rebellion, Sauron lost baby Aegon and Rhaenys, or at least he thought he did, so he was left with me. I lacked the Rhoynar blood, but I was close enough to perfect, so he influenced me in my mother's womb, changing me, altering my personality, my mind, my body and spirit, so that I could inherit his spirit and power. Upon my birth the process began. Bit by bit, Sauron's power and essence flows into me. One day, he will be gone, and I will rise in his place. A new Sauron, a stronger Sauron. The being Rómestámo fears, is dying, and one day will be gone, and I am the one who will inherit his legacy."
Daenerys listened with wrapped attention as Aegon fed her this partial truth. It had just enough elements of the truth to be believable, but he left out or changed enough to make it fit his narrative.
"So before, when you said that you were Sauron… a new Sauron…?" Daenerys began.
"A partial truth. Most people wouldn't understand this." Aegon admitted.
"So what does that mean for you when this process is complete. You seem like the man we met in Meereen, yet we all saw how quickly that changed." Barristan noted.
"Until the day the process is complete, things like that will continue to occur. As more of Sauron passes into me, the line between he and I begins to fade. The process is difficult to explain, but essentially, his spirit grows stronger in me, allowing for me to channel his darkness more efficiently, while at the same time, the barrier between he and I, becomes thinner and thinner, making such transitions less jarring and less noticeable. Eventually the process will complete. I will be Sauron, and he will be me. All that he is, now passed onto me. In many ways, I am like his reincarnation. He influenced things to make me like him, in mind, in spirit, in personality, though he has lived far longer than I, and has far more cruelly in him. If angered or spited his reactions can be volatile, but in truth, I'm not much different, our capacity for these things is what separates us, due to our age, and the difference in life experiences. To truly answer your question Ser Barristan, I'm not entirely sure what'll happen. Both Lilith and Sauron have assured me, that this isn't some form of possession. I'm not someone else, who's being taken over by Sauron. I've been Sauron since the moment of my birth, just not all of him, if that makes sense." Aegon answered, taking a few moments to organize his thoughts.
Despite continuing to lie, there was some truth to his explanation in regards to this vessel. Aegon Targaryen never truly existed. What spirit there was, had been reshaped by Sauron since the moment of his conception. He'd always been this way, there was never another person.
"Will I become more cruel? Will I become as evil as he is? I cannot say for certain. All I do know is that, with the connections that I have now, with the people that I love and cherish, I can never see myself becoming the monster that Sauron is claimed to be. Even then, I can't truly know how much of those stories are true or not. After all, Sauron was Rómestámo's enemy. I can't trust the Blue Wizard any more than I can trust Sauron himself in regards to the kind of man he was. I'm left only to come to my own conclusion." Aegon speculated thoughtfully.
Silence filled the chamber for several long moments as those present digested this information.
Finally, Daenerys spoke.
"If agree to work with you, what is it you intend for me and my companions?" Daenerys asked.
"What I intend for you Daenerys, is to be what you were always meant to be. I will return your dragons to you, and even revive Drogon, all I ask is that you join me in the taking of this world. We are dragons, you and I. Soon we will be joined by Rhaenys, and she will join us in the skies. Together we can bring this world to heel. We can put an end to the chaos and the horror. The slavery you revile so much, we can end it, truly end it. Not for a generation or two, not for while we are there, but forever. We can accomplish whatever we put our minds towards. Your companions will be free to do as they please. They may continue to serve you, or whatever they wish to in life." Aegon expressed as he stepped up the bars, and was within arms reach of Daenerys.
The two locked eyes, as Daenerys took in his words.
After a few long seconds passed she turned her gaze away. She stared off into the middle distant for a moment before returning her gaze to meet his. She then offered him a nod.
"Okay." With that one word, Daenerys sealed her fate.
She, Missandei, and Ser Barristan were let out of their cells, and given new lodgings within the castle.
Aegon was more than pleased with this outcome. He knew he still had a ways to go before he fully won Daenerys over, but the hard part was now out of the way.
With Daenerys now taking a tentative step towards rejoining her family, things in Westeros continued to go well for the Dark Twins.
While the two continued to work, deep within the heart of the Black Cells, lay the broken body of Rómestámo. The Blue Wizard, who had once stood as a defiant enemy of the Dark Lord, had been reduced to a pitiful state. Not much yet remained of the great wizard. Soon his will would snap completely, and when it did, Sauron and Lilith would be free to reshape him into something new, something horrible.
Across the Narrow Sea, the Prince of Dorne rode towards the great encampment of the Golden Company. His purpose was set. He would either convince them all to join him in returning to Westeros, or he would be leaving with just Rhaenys. Either way, the last living remnant of his beloved sister would be returning to her family. Of that, there would be no doubt.
So with a firm heart, he continued his approach. Confident as he had ever been, with just a touch more eagerness than was normal for the wild prince of Dorne.
Meanwhile, far from these lands, within the dark and twisted realm of Mordor, a lone wraith stood within the Unseen world. Before him lay the body of a fallen ranger. A man whose death bore no small resemblance to the wraith's own. Slowly, the wraith used it's powers to reforge the man's body. It would take several weeks, but soon, the may would return to life, and when he did, the wraith would join him in the physical world. Together the two would bring low, the Dark Lord and his armies. Vengeance would be had.
-To Be Continued-
Alright, there we go. Now that we've got a lot of that settled, the next chapter will finish up the two major remaining plot points in Westeros, before we move into the Shadow series, so I hope you guys are excited like I am. I know in the actual game Shadow of Mordor, some arbitrary length of time is supposed to have passed between Talion's death and his revival, though the game never really gets into it, and it isn't explicitly stated how long this gap is, even though I've seen some sources claim it was like 30 years later. Regardless of what it was intended to be, I'm not gonna wait that long to get into this. So I hope everyone is ready for some fun in Mordor. Until next time, ja ne!