Jasper
Myrcella was beautiful even as she snored louder than Grand Uncle Brynden. Light filtered in through the window as she lay underneath the covers wearing a golden nightgown that matched her hair. Jasper had breached the curtain that separated them. He wanted to give Myrcella some privacy in the captain's quarters. A man should not see his betrothed naked before their wedding. As he gazed down at his beautiful betrothed, his heart weakened at what needed to be done. Over the days at sea he had told her things not even his ser knew. It was easy to speak around her. He felt like Jasper and not Lord Arryn. Or at least a man he could have been. The weights on his chest vanished when they spoke as if he were on a lonely ride in the woods. Every day on the boat was a blessing that made his heart soar higher and higher. He wished it would never stop.
It made this difficult almost impossible.
As High as Honor!
Jasper sat on the edge of the bed. "Princess," He said, leaning over. "Myrcella, wake up." And touched her shoulder gently.
Her green eyes opened with some fright as she let out a quick breath. Panic overcame her limbs at his presence, like he was some phantom come to do her harm. Nails dug into his skin. "Oh, Jasper, it's you!" Her delicate cheeks reddened with embarrassment as she reached for the covers to disappear underneath them. Jasper found the action adorable and pressed them down, hands entangling.
"I've spoken with the captain. We shall arrive shortly." He said.
"I guess I'll have to get dressed shortly, then." She voiced shyly.
He nodded. "But that is not the reason I'm here." His tongue felt horribly tied as his chest twisted into knots. I didn't think it would be this hard to put up those walls again. She rubbed the sleep from her eyes.
"Jasper, what's the matter?" She asked, worried.
"These days have made me very happy. Your smile brightens my day and your laugh is a precious gift." He brushed a strand of hair behind her hair. "It makes it hard to pretend otherwise, but I must pretend all the same." He sighed. "I must be Lord Arryn once more to protect you and your brother. I wished to tell you sooner, but I've rarely felt much joy. I didn't wish to ruin it." Some disgust filtered into his voice. "It was selfish of me."
The judgement he feared and deserved never came. "You don't wish to be seen as a love struck boy by your lords." Myrcella said. "I understand. I wouldn't wish to weaken your shield in these days of war. Appearance is everything. Our roles shall protect us."
He kissed her hands like the knight he always wished he could be. "You are perfect, princess. Things will be different once we win the war." Love could truly bloom between them. A happy little family in the Vale sweeter than any song. A garden they shall build together. The hardest projects require time and effort. Unlike his father, he would be there for his family and no children of his would ever feel alone or neglected. Our flock shall know we love them. He offered a smile. "Besides, I'm sure you are sick of me."
Myrcella gasped. "How can you say such a wicked thing?"
"You seemed rather wroth during our card game. That nose of yours was wriggling like a rabbit. I think you wished to skewer me." He winked.
She gave an annoyed look. "I did not."Crossing her arms. She turned away from him.
Jasper wondered if he erred in his teasing. He tensed. "Myrcella-"He tried to apologize, turning her around and saw a mischievous smile as she giggled.
"You awful woman!" Jasper said.
Justice had to be had, and he tickled her. She showed her delight with happy squeals and half-hearted protests. Jasper rolled her underneath him. Her legs wrapped around his waist. They fit together like lock and key. His left arm propped him up to prevent himself from crushing her as breath intermingled between them. A light whimper escaped her throat. Jasper considered kissing her, but he just gazed into the green eyes he loved. I'm drowning and I must pretend otherwise. A similar gaze in her eyes glared back. She drowns as much as me. The moment would be one he would always cherish, even an old man with rotting teeth. "Do you truly understand Myrcella?" He asked.
"Do I have your heart?"
"Yes." He whispered the truth. "I hope you shall guard it well."
She kissed him, and the last shard of ice melted away.
The walls of the Gates of the Moon appeared before them as Lord Grafton rode beside of him. An amicable man with a calculating glint in his eyes. A vulture. But a rich vulture that he had to placate with his time with Nestor Royce, his appointment as Master of Coin and Lord Baelish's murder, he had need of a new steward. It would be foolish to deny greater connections with the wealthiest port in the Vale. Ser Gerald, the mans cousin, was proficient with sums and they had haggled like two fisherman wives over the appointment. He probes me and wishes to see how much I'll give him. It required a firm hand to content him with only the appointment of the steward. Banners sworn to the Lord of Gulltown rode with the party some four thousand knights and men of arms. "A fine day Lord Arryn!" He declared. "I think our journey is at an end."
"Not the end, my lord. Just the beginning!" He said with false cheer. "You shall dine with me tonight in a place of high honor as we announce your cousin's appointment!"
The man fancied himself cunning, but he enjoyed compliments and praise like all the rest. "Tis a great honor, my lord." It better be you disloyal coin counter. House Grafton did not the answer the call of his father and sided with the crown during Roberts Rebellion. They had levied punishment against them. Extra taxes and some traditional titles stripped from them. But they were too important to ignore or leave in the wind. Relationships need to be forged to keep the Vale strong. And he had answered the call, but Jasper wanted to keep it that way.
Stay loyal to me, and I shall see you restored to your traditional place.
One lord down. He thought of all the vassals he would have to entertain, all the false smiles he would give. The hands he had to shake. From dawn to dusk he would have to be outgoing, the epitome of Arryn chivalry. Already annoyance reared its head as he was growing more tired in his company playing this false dance. Jasper wished to hit the sides of Traveler, a grey beast, and fly through the gate with the wind kissing his cheeks, leaving this miserable conversation behind him. But it would be unlordly and not As High as Honor. He counted backwards from a hundred as Ser Brynden taught him to master this annoyance.
Lord Yohn rode with them as well, wearing a suit of bronze armor. An honorable solider."I see little joy in the coming days, my lords. Only the calm before the storm." His contributions on the campaign would be key. If I give him the van few shall complain. Fostering Robert with him bound them closer together and was an obvious move. Runestone and the Eyrie had to be bound at the hip. If Robert were healthier, he may have tried to betroth him with Ysillia, but Lelya Redfort would be the best match. Of all the Lords of the Vale, Lord Horton Redfort was his favorite. A simple drunk who loves his family and the Vale. It made negotiations very simple. A lower match than he wished, but Lord Yohn may take it as an insult if he suggested they united their lines with Robert. I shall see my brother soon as well. Andar Royce was marching with the Runestone levies and his brother came with them.
"Ah," Lord Grafton replied. "smell the roses Lord Royce. We aren't on the field."He said, smiling. "Enjoy the wine and the songs on soft cushions. I know I shall."
"I feel similarly, Lord Royce." Jasper voiced, and in the corner of his eyes he saw Lord Grafton stiffen. "But we must celebrate while we can. My uncle tells me Winter-is-Coming." A strange feeling the summer had lasted as long as he been alive. "A queer saying of the Starks, but war is certainly coming. It does us little good to dwell on the unavoidable clash."
Lord Yohn nodded. "Mayhaps."
They passed through the gate into the courtyard, the flying falcon whipping proudly in the wind. They had assembled the entire household in the courtyard as they went to their knees as he galloped in. His four wards stood in the center, dressed in their finest doublets and capes that fluttered in the wind. Prince Tommen looked taller than when he last saw him, with some of his baby fat disappearing from his cheeks. All of them looked a little older. He could almost detect some hair on Adrians chin. We are making men of them. Only Ser Arys didn't go to his knees, sworn to King Robert he would have broken his oath had he done so. The Knight of Oak filled him with some trepidation, but he buried it. He swore an oath. A sacred vow he won't harm Prince Tommen.
However, it was his ser and his withering gaze that made him feel like a boy playing lord. It shall soon be of disappointment. I have not been a good squire as of late. Jasper bade them all bid to rise as he dismounted somewhat gracefully. His grand uncles face was weathered and craggy, but he could still put him in the dirt with a sword. "I see my wards still draw breath ser."
"Count again." Grand Uncle Brynden replied. "We had five."
"Four out of five is acceptable."
The Blackfish snorted.
He inspected all of them. Tommen gave a friendly smile, while Bran gave a wolfish grin. Jon was respectful, his features neutral, and Adrian was struggling to stay still. Dawn laid at its master's feet. His golden eyes studying him and nodding. It might actually like me. The other Stark wolves hated or barely tolerated him. "Well, I'm impressed." Jasper said as he scanned over them. "You lot may almost pass for squires." Excitement and curiosity burned amongst the boys.
Jasper sighed. "Alright, I give you leave to speak." The wave of sound that struck him was incoherent and gave him a blistering headache. Sorry ser for leaving you alone with them. "ONE AT A TIME! ONE QUESTION! YOU!"
He pointed at Cousin Bran.
"Are you really taking us on the campaign?!"
"Yes."
He pointed at Adrian. "Is it true you won the Tourney of the Hand?"
"I did."
He jabbed his finger towards Jon.
"How do you think the war shall end?"
"With victory for House Arryn and the Crown." Jasper said with complete confidence.
Then he went to Prince Tommen. "Did father say anything about me before he left?"
It was a question he did not suspect. Jasper assumed they would ask questions of the upcoming campaign or fights in the capital. Not of fathers. He rubbed his pant legs. Lying, even a kind lie, tore at him. Jasper couldn't help but be honest. "He did not, but he told me he was very proud that you knocked young Bran in the tiltyard."
Prince Tommen gave a weak smile.
Jasper lowered to his level. "Chin up, my prince. I doubt your sister will wish to see your frown."
"Cella!" Prince Tommen brightened as Bran groaned as the carriages came through the courtyard. A boy that was embarrassed over seeing his mother and sisters again.
"You will hug your mother." Jasper said curtly. "Be a dutiful son. You'll cause her enough grief going on campaign." The mere thought of Aunt Catelyn made him bitter, but he wished not his kin to suffer for his bitterness.
Cousin Bran bristled, but nodded his head.
Jasper watched as the Starks reunited with tears and tender embraces while the wolves howled. A loving family. Once he thought he may be among them. He gazed at them a bit too intently before twisting away and bidding his grand uncle to follow. He didn't bother to wait for Myrcella. I'll dine with her, eventually. But he couldn't wait for her with these eyes on him. Let them see indifference. Let them see a lord.
"I see more gray hairs." Jasper told him as they wandered up the staircase, "Did they give you that much trouble ser?"
"More gray hairs than hair you can grow on your chin, boy."
Jasper snorted. "And to think I missed you."
When they were behind close doors, his ser cuffed him on the back of the head. It was a good feeling, one which he wished he had in the capital. "I deserved that." He admitted.
"How many times must I tell you not to play fucking hero?" His tone was unyielding. "Reckless boy. Charging three knights."
His cheeks became flushed. "I beat three knights!"
"And you were too tired to face the hidden threat behind you."
Grand Uncle Brynden's voice was filled with disappointment and he found his anger leave him as he slouched against the chair. If he were there, I never would have entered the melee. "It was reckless, but I do it again." He said with steel. "They have beaten Snow to death. It was the honorable thing to do."
Jasper sighed and pressed against the bridge of his nose. I deserve this scolding.
"I noted you didn't stay to play knight with your betrothed." He said. "Grow tired of her?"
"It would not be lordly in these days of woe." Jasper replied, trying to fool him desperately. I don't have the right words to tell Grand Uncle Brynden and he needed him to approve of her. It made him beyond nervous, imagining them at odds. What if they didn't like one another? Everyone loved Princess Myrcella, but what if his ser was the one that didn't? If I tell the perfect exchange of words, he'll love her. "I don't feel anything for her. I do what the Vale needs from me and when the war is won, I shall play the knight once more." He committed himself to his act as he did every waking moment of his life. Bright Tully eyes, as harsh as the stone walls, stared at him, and Jasper fought the urge to gulp. Fall back into the mask. It was like putting on a glove and he was an Arryn and would do it perfectly.
A flippant wave of his hand. "Let us move on to more important matters."
"I suppose the princess was a rather silly thing." Grand Uncle Bryden mocked. "I suppose most would grow bored with her."
Jasper's eyes narrowed like a falcon.. "Mind your tongue. She will be my wife, ser." His voice chilled.
His ser stroked his chin. "Ah, so you do like her."
"What? Of course not! It's a matter of honor little more." And Jasper added some haughtiness to his voice to sell it. "She's pretty, but what of it? I've seen many pretty maidens." Myrcella was beautiful, as the dawn, sharp as Valyrian steel and her lips tasted of strawberries. The sweetest strawberries. Jasper thought. He loved the taste, and the feeling of her soft hands in his own. And he still worried he would ruin it with some wrong remark, but he hoped maybe he could manage something after all. She made him feel more normal and Jasper knew he was idiotic about many important things, but she didn't seem to mind. But he would not admit such girlishness to his ser. He raised him to be a martial lord without an ounce of softness in his breast.
Ser Brynden leaned against the wall, arms crossed, unconvinced. A slight raise of his bushy brows told this as clear as day. "Huh, is that so." He said.
Jasper held firm. "It is." He blurted out with some heat. "Nothing exists between her and I save the duty I owe a princess of the realm and the future Lady of the Eyrie." And held his ser down with a stare that might have made a lesser man wilt, but it was the Blackfish. Jasper wondered if he had some underhanded trick to get him to fess up before he was ready. "If you can't win a fight fair, what do you do?"
"Everything is fair in a true fight!" Jasper repeated his instruction. "As long as the cause is just and honorable!"
But there were no tricks that would get him to bend on this. You taught me everything I know. Jasper wondered if there were some tricks he kept for himself? I'm not ready to tell him. I'm not ready. And his jaw tightened, and he felt the satisfaction of victory knowing he had won the day. "Now-
"You must have taken her maidenhead, then." He snorted. "So much for Arryn honor. Not what you expected? Did someone beat you to it?"
It was too much. His face went red and his hands shook and he saw stars. "DO NOT SLANDER MYRCELLA'S VIRTUE WITH THAT VOICE! I"LL BEAT YOU!" Jasper raged, throwing a finger at his chest. For the first time in his life, he considered laying a hand against him as his eyes glistened with amusement at his fury.
Amusement?! Jasper paused, puzzled.
"Myrcella? Informal aren't we."
And Jasper realized his mistake. "Shit, you goaded me." He mumbled. "What gave me away?"
His grand uncle softened. "I've been around a while." He cuffed him lightly on the head. It was like a hug from the man. "You pick up a thing or two, and I've watched you since you were a boy. I know you better than most."
"And if you were wrong?"
"Well," He said dryly. "I imagine you would have swung with a right hook and I would hope you knock my old bones down or I raised a pissy squire. A damn shame."
Jasper snorted with laughter. "Your crazy." He mumbled. "You stubborn old trout." It was good he knew it would have pained him to lie to his ser. He poured them two glasses of ale as his grand uncle bade him to drink. Jasper drank until his skin felt warm. He talked about her and every little trait he adored, her sweet words and intelligent mind as he dreamed of her strawberry lips. Jasper knew he sounded like a love-struck fool. Every time he paused, he drank more and more. It wasn't even midday, and he drank like a sailor on leave.
"Gods, she has you good, doesn't she?"
"Afraid so. I swear I didn't mean for it to happen." Jasper took a larger gulp than before. "I swear on the Honor of House Arryn!" He took another drink. He found he had a man's thirst then. His tongue loosened. "By the Seven I love her. It's been a week and I'm going crazy without her!"
The Blackfish chuckled.
"You think you're so clever? I know this was your little plan." His voice slurred. "Get me drunk and have me spill my guts like some soft-hearted girl." But Jasper found he didn't care a lick. "I miss her. I REALLLLYYYY miss her." Jasper needed to see her and woo her! My precious golden doe. It almost felt like a good idea to exit his solar and seek his betrothed, but he still knew enough to realize that would be a bad idea. It would end with him trying to bed her and that wouldn't be As High as Honor.
"I can tell." Grand Uncle Brynden smiled. "I'm happy for you. Love is a sweet thing."
Jasper beamed at his approval. It made everything to him. As his vision blurred, he was drunk enough to admit the truth. He's more of a father to me than my own. Still, he didn't utter the truth. It was not something that needed to be said. "Gods, I haven't been this drunk since I was a squire and I stole your wineskin! What an adventure that was!" He wanted to drink a mans drinks like his household guardsmen."I thought you would cuff me for it, but you said the hangover would be punishment enough!"
He rubbed his chin. "And I was right. You were fucking miserable that morning as I made you do drills."
Jasper laughed and forgot what they were talking about. "The Capital is a shit place." He said. "Schemers and ambitious lords. They don't have a decent bone in their bodies. Those fucking stewards." He slurred. "Would have made the Tyrell girl queen and the next day would have killed my ward with a smile on their pretty little faces. They deserve this beating we are about to give them. They deserve every lick. I shall make them regret their ambition!" It made him boil thinking about that dreadful place. "And the Lannister Queen is an absolute monster. Vile. Cruel. She deserves the headsman for what she did to my sweet betroth, but justice is denied to me."
The light-hearted smile vanished from his grand uncle's face. "What do you mean, lad?"
"I can't speak of it. I swore a vow, but she made my innocent doe commit a vile act. She was unaware of it, I swear!" A fear seized him like the Stranger. "I don't know what Lord Stark would do if he ever discovered the truth. Myrcella is this sweet, innocent thing and means the world to me, but my uncle and aunt care not for my feelings." They would have stabbed me in the back. The interests of House Stark are not his own. "But I swear by the honor of my house if they command me to hand her over, I'll refuse. They'll have to pry her away from my cold corpse."
"Lad, you make not a lick of sense. What did she do?"
"I can't." Jasper shook his head defiantly. "I'm sorry, ser, but I cannot speak it. I'm only as good as my word. You taught me that."
The Blackfish cursed.
"Listen, I know my niece. I know she wouldn't have any conflict with you, and Lord Stark is a man of honor."
"I trust neither of them." Jasper spat back. "Daggers in the dark, the both of them."
"You've written nothing of this. What has caused this divide between you?"
Jasper told him everything. He told him about how they plotted behind his back to have his mother arrested in open court for the murder of his father. A scandalous lie!They would have torn apart my family for a lie! If they had only come to him, they could have handled it quietly. Instead, they wished to drag him through the muck of a public trial. Dragging the reputations of his parents through the filth. Even in victory, the whispers would haunt his family for a generation. She would always be guilty in some eyes. If they were actually my family, they would have handed it quietly. It confirmed what he knew in his heart that they were barely kin. They would stab me in the back and leave me for the crows. He told of the murder of Lord Baelish and the subsequent coverup. A loyal man died for the madness of his mother and the Starks were her catspaw.
"They trusted the word of my mother. A SICK WOMAN. YOU KNOW HOW SICK SHE IS," Jasper said hotly.
His ser flinched with some shame. "She is."
Jasper waved him off. "tis not your fault." He sighed, his mind wandering to their conversations while he was Lord of the Eyrie. "I've been a poor squire as of late. I've allowed the weight of my title to crush me." He paused. "I shoved you away when I should have relied more closely on your counsel. Things will be different, I promise. I'm going to need you in the coming days." The actions of the Starks had strengthened his resolve in what he desired. The threat they posed to Myrcella and his family. Lord Stark had to be removed from the Office of his father. I may be unworthy of it, but I don't trust him. But not now. Lord Stark was a capable soldier and leader of men, and he would lead them well. Their interests aligned and he would defer to him as he was experienced in war. But during the conflict, he would lay the seeds of his removal, improving his relationships with his Uncle Edmure, whom the Starks ignored to their detriment. Since he became Lord of the Eyrie he had engaged in correspondence with the man. Jasper intended to deepen that relationship. And what remains of House Lannister at the end of this conflict would make a natural ally in his bloc. Lannisters, Tully, Arryn. He had Crown Prince Tommen in his custody and in a few years when he was a man grown married to his Stark bride, a perfect symbol to rally behind. Prince Regent, we shall name him in the throne room. And Lord Stark didn't enjoy his office faced with such pressure he would surrender his office and return to the North. Historically House Stark didn't stay long in the south and it was only natural that the power of the realm shift to the Eyrie where it belonged.
"Do I have your support ser?" He asked.
The response was a cuff to his head and Jasper raised a brow and chuckled. "Stupid question, I know."
"Aye, lad, it was a stupid question. Now let me get you a bucket. You look green."
And Jasper certainly felt green.
Tommen
Myrcella was here!
Tommen adjusted his bronze broach of a stag as he stood sheepishly at her chamber door holding some flowers he had picked for her. Red roses and blue lilies with some yellow daises. Beautiful flowers from one of the many meadows that surrounded the castle. Tommen commanded Ser Arys to help him in his escape and his expedition. He told me if I'm ever in need of escape he needs to be my side. And Tommen didn't wish to upset his noble protector who suffered for him. His sworn brothers were with father across the Narrow Sea, earning glory while he protected him.
He should be with father not myself. I'm safe in the Vale.
Though it pleased him he was bound to him. Tommen knew he was selfish in wanting Ser Arys to remain. It made him feel braver having a man of the kingsguard trailing his every move. I must be brave or at least try to be. A Crown Prince had to be brave. He knocked on the door as Ser Arys watched with silent approval. Had Myrcella changed? Did she still love him? He enjoyed her letters, but it was not the same as before when it was just the two of them in the Red Keep. Time in the Eyrie had changed him. He found brothers in his ward mates. Myrcella, have you changed as well? Or are you still my sister?
Every doubt vanished when the door opened and Myrcella jumped at him, nearly toppling him over. "Tommen!" He yelped as she strangled him. "You are getting so tall! Just like Uncle Jaime!"
"Myrcella, the flowers!" He tried to shield them from her.
Myrcella giggled. "Oh, they look lovely!"
However, Tommen realized they were not alone in the room as she was having tea with her ladies. There was Rosamund Lannister, a soft-spoken girl from the Westerlands. Tommen recalled her fondly. But it was his betrothed that made him redden. She was beautiful, with fiery red hair and light blue eyes as soft as the sea. Septon Layne told him that ladies like being complemented on their beauty. "My lady," He extended a red rose. "It's almost your equal." She was taller than him and several years older. I must not be the knight of dreams.
But Lady Sansa gave a gracious smile and accepted. "Thank you, my prince." She said. "Your gallantry knows no bounds." It made him blush. He noted at her feet lay her direwolf Lady he recalled was her name. Her fur had been braided and a bright pink bow placed on her head. She didn't seem to mind. Her claws could still cut down a knight with ease.
Myrcella beamed. "Your becoming such a charmer Tommen. Do join us. Tell us about your days in the Gate of the Moon."
"I wouldn't wish to impose on your gathering." Tommen whispered. It would be improper and in the Vale they were very firm on good form and spoiling ladies' tea time struck him as poor form.
"Don't be silly!" she yanked him around. "You must stay!" And his sister would hear no argument from his lips and he didn't wish to upset her.
"Please stay, my prince." Lady Sansa asked. "I wish to hear about how Bran has been."
Rosamund nodded in silent accord.
Tommen raised his hands up in surrender. "Alright I'll stay, I'll stay."
They clapped and giggled as he told of some of his misadventures in the Vale. He told them of the time they had snuck out of the castle to go to the local tavern for Adrians name day and how they dragged a very unwilling Ser Arys along. A boy only turned thirteen name days once. "Ale is not a sweet thing." Tommen mumbled. "It was awful Cella, so bitter." Why do men like such a foul drink? "We tried to sneak back in, but the Blackfish was waiting. I swear he has some dark art in snuffing out our fun. Bran came up with this full proof idea of having straw dummies wearing our night clothes in our beds. It should have fooled him." They were made to clean the stables and mule stalls the next morning. For weeks Tommen swore they smelled of shit and straw.
"Does Bran truly enjoy his time here?" Lady Sansa asked.
"Yes, my lady." He declared. "I'll admit, him and Adrian got off on the wrong foot, but Adrian is as loyal to Bran as myself." They had sworn vows of brotherhood. It was just like fathers days in the Vale. He had made loyal friends. Bran was the mischievous one of the group. Adrian was brash and stubborn , but the first at your side in a fight. Jon was the quiet and clever one. No one knew more about the histories of Westeros than him. Every day was as fun as the last and now they were going off to battle together to put his realm to right. Even if bloodshed frightens him. At least they would be by his side, and he could try to be brave and courageous.
Myrcella smiled with fondness.
Tommen adjusted his collar. "And mother?" He asked with hope. "It surprised me she did not come with you for the wedding." A mother should see her daughter wed, and he knew how close they were to mother. She loves us both!
Myrcella's bright smile dimmed. "Yes," she said. "It's very sad Tommen, but Lord Stark wished her to remain and he is the Lord Regent that father left behind."
He sighed. "I guess. I'm sorry she won't be here."
"Don't worry, I have you." She smiled. "That's all the family I need."
Tommen blushed as the ladies giggled at him.
The Falcons Tower was not a place you wished to be summoned. Have I erred? He had been japing with Bran and Adrian in their quarters when Ser Edmund entered and declared that Lord Arryn summoned him to his solar. Bran offered to go with him, but Ser Edmund was adamant that Lord Arryn only desired him.
Tommen arrived into the spacious solar with Lord Arryn sitting at his desk with two plates set. Since his return from the capital, he seemed less harsh and more relaxed. Myrcella does that to everyone. Once she even made grandfather smile. It seemed even Lord Arryn wasn't immune to her tender warmth. "Please sit, my prince." Lord Arryn said. "Your not in any trouble." As if he were reading his thoughts.
Tommen nodded. "Then why am I here, my lord?"
Lord Arryn chuckled as he took out some parchment. "Why I wish to discuss this letter, you sent me. I wish to hear your reasoning from your own lip."
"Well," Tommen said, rubbing the back of his head, trying to recall his reasoning. "I picked Lord Stark to remain as my Hand of the King as he would be my goodfather and kin is important for keeping the peace. He's a veteran of two, well, soon to be three wars." He paused, gazing at Lord Arryn for a reaction. A twitch of his lips. A sigh of disapproval, but he only saw a blank, lordly look.
"Go on." Lord Arryn said as he took another sip of his water. "Explain further."
Tommen went into everything. He explained that Uncle Stannis held experience as Master of Ships smashing the Ironborn at Fair Isles, and he was bound by blood as his uncle and made sense to keep his post. The Master of Laws he held it should be Lord Arryn since they were soon to be brothers by marriage, and if not him, then Lord Royce. Men of Vale were known for honor and justice and they would enforce the Kings Laws the best. His Uncle Tyrion he would name to Master of Coin since Lannisters understood gold and Uncle Tyrion always struck him as a brilliant man. Tommen explained, growing more and more confident until his voice went hoarse with Lord Arryn only asking the occasional question. By the end, he was smiling.
"You are ready, then." Lord Arryn said. "It is time we move beyond Small Council Hypotheticals. Tell me, my prince, how shall we bring this war to an end? How should Lord Stark end this war?"
"Lord Arryn! I'm not ready for that!" Tommen stood up, reddening. "That's real!" How could he think I'm ready for that?
Lord Arryn chuckled. "As will all things be for you one day. One day, you shall be king and shall face a crisis like this. From the tundra of the North to the scorching deserts of Dorne, you shall rule. It'll be your responsibility and now is a perfect time as any to learn." He sighed at his vow of silence. "There are no stupid answers, my prince."
He very much disagreed with that statement. There are certainly stupid answers as the silence choked them both.
"Whats the best way to make peace?"
"Marriage." Tommen said sheepishly.
Lord Arryn smiled. "Yes!" He said happily. "Marriage is very important in keeping the peace. What marriages are holding up the Crown?"
"Your marriage with my sister will tie the Crown with the Vale, and mine with Lady Sansa would secure the North."
"It would." He agreed. "Do you think marriage is important for restoring the Tyrells and Lannisters to the fold?"
And Tommen felt it was a trick question. "I know marriage is key to keeping the peace, but I don't see how it'll end the war."
Lord Arryn nodded. "Tis true, but when this conflict ends marriage will be a needed tool to maintain the peace. Marriage can be a punishment and a gift. It can weaken as well as strengthen."
Tommen nodded along as he went over troop strengths of the Reach and the Westerlands. He spoke of the wealth of Casterly Rock and Highgarden and how both regions were vital to the Crown. Lord Tywin was his grandfather and one of his strongest supporters, but his reputation made him a bitter drink to swallow for the other allies of House Baratheon. Lord Arryn asked if they should send Lord Tywin to the Wall for the devastation wrought against the Reach.
"NO!" He slammed his fist against the desk. "I will not punish my grandfather. He's family."
"Will you punish Lord Renly? He is your uncle. Will you blame no one for this? Your banners will scream for justice, my prince." Tommen slumped back into his chair. He remembered Uncle Renlys charming smile and his friendly demeanor. It wouldn't be right to punish him, either. It must be the Tyrells who started this. "He is only defending his wife."
"His defenders will say that." Lord Arryn said. "His detractors will say he ignored the Iron Thrones commands. He played outlaw lord."
Tommen sighed. Why must everything be so complicated? "I would seek to slap all parties on the wrist. A generous peace. If all parties are to blame…"His voice trailed. "then the peace should be lenient. Reparations to the Reach in return for hostages housed in the Red Keep."
"It may be just a soft peace, but it is not wise." He voiced curtly. "Your duty as king is to secure it. A harsh peace would be a better one, my prince. We'll need to prevent this from happening again."
His stomach churned. "I wish not to hurt anyone, my lord."
Lord Arryn softened and rose from his seat. "I know. It's unpleasant isn't it? It's a heavy burden securing the peace,. But you are not alone." Lord Arryn squeezed his shoulder. His cold eyes softened with understanding and Tommen felt protected. "You can rely on your advisors to share this burden and your family and friends as well." Once Tommen ventured into the courtroom and heard Lord Jon Arryn speak to petitioners with a quiet voice of great nobility. Now, Tommen swore it sounded just like Jasper Arryn.
"I thought a king must decide on his own. Only a king may make his choices." Tommen said with a confused look etched on his brow.
"I was wrong." Lord Arryn sighed. "I've told you squires, it's fine to admit to your mistakes when you are wrong and I was wrong. It's foolish to do things on your own. You can rely on others and you must. No one man can do it alone. Men are not mountains." A hint of shame behind his voice before he gave a confident look.
He chuckled. "I know, I am seventeen name days, I must be as wise as a maester. I hate to inform you, but you never stop growing." He winked. "Even when you are an old man of thirty name days!"
"That's so old!"
"You think? My grand uncle is even older."
Lord Arryn ruffled his hair as Tommen laughed.
"Alright, my prince, enough education on politics. Have the day to yourself. Spend it with your sister or ward mates and feel the joy they inspire in us."
He flung his arms around Lord Arryn and hugged him. "I'm happy we are going to be brothers soon." He was the older brother he always wished he had. If only Joffrey could have been like you. Confident and protective, like a true knight. Joffrey always hurt him and anything he loved. If you were our brother, you would have beat him bloody for it. Jasper Arryn stiffened as he patted him awkwardly on the back and Tommen clung to him for too long as he grew annoyed.
"Enough of this girlishness." Jasper said with his lords voice and Tommen mumbled an apology as he unentangled his arms.
"It's fine. Off you go." He waved him away.
Thoughts swirled in his mind as he wandered, with no destination in mind with the hulking suit of steel behind him. The pride in Lord Arryns voice touched him even if he walked away feeling more foolish with every conversation about what it meant to be king. When he was around Bran, it was simple. They could do no wrong, but Lord Arryn always spoke of consequences of ones actions. Tommen would rather clean suits of armor or get into trouble with Bran and the rest. The life of a squire was a simple one. He mused. Far simpler than that of a king.
Tommen paused.
I think I shall feed Lady Whiskers. The orange tabby cat had proved a sweet friend during his stay. She had gained a few pounds since he ordered the kitchens to see the stray fed. It was one of the few perks of being the Crown Prince. They seemed eager to help him and follow. Joffrey enjoyed the groveling, he just wanted the poor cat to get a good meal. Lady Whiskers always found the best perches to lounge in the sun. And when he petted her, she purred. A soft sound that made him smile and wish to seize the animal and hold it tightly. I tried that once, and it scratched me. He almost giggled. Lord Arryn forbade him from taking the cat to his room, claimed it was an unworthy pet for a prince. Tommen couldn't see how a cat was an unworthy pet, but this was his home and so he listened to his ser. When Tommen turned the bend, he tightened at the sight as the shadowy figure stalked Lady Whiskers. One of the cook boys! He told them to leave her alone! I'm their prince and they defy me. Tommen did as they taught in the training yard and just reacted. He propelled himself forward and collided with the boy. "Leave Lady Whiskers alone!"
"Get off me!" a distinctively girlish voice replied as they tumbled to the hard floor. It made him pause, and she used it against him, wrestling herself on top of him, bending his wrists back. He was thankful for the shadows, for he was blushing, being this close with Lady Arya. She was pretty, but beyond frightening, with piercing gray eyes and his courage left him.
"My lady-"He stammered.
"I'm not a lady, stupid!" She snarled.
Tommen didn't know how that worked because she was Lord Starks daughter. A lord's daughter was always a lady. It made his head hurt. "But your father is a lord." He blurted out as she scowled fiercely, only to be pulled back with a loud yelp by steel gauntlets as Ser Arys finally arrived to save him from his fierce adversary.
"Are you well, my prince?"
"Let me go!" She wailed, trying to squirm free, but it was the iron grip of a Kingsguard. Lady Arya was going nowhere without his leave. It returned some confidence to him.
Tommen nodded mutely. "Please release her ser. I'm sure it was just a misunderstanding." He didn't like the discomfort he was afflicting against her. It didn't feel right and Ser Brynden told him he should trust his gut.
Ser Arys did as bid.
"Why were you chasing Lady Whiskers?" Tommen asked the strange Stark girl.
She crossed her arms defiantly. "Whats it to you?" She barked.
"My prince." Ser Arys corrected, abashed.
Tommen didn't mind. It was refreshing being treated with such bluntness, even if her gaze was unnerving. He smiled as Lady Whiskers returned to him, brushing against his pant legs purring. "She is my friend, and I thought you were one of the cook boys. They have tormented her." He sighed at the memory and tried to be stern, like Lord Arryn. "You should not have chased her. How would you feel if you were hunted and stalked?!"
Lady Arya didn't seem impressed by his princely voice. "I'm sorry Tommen." She mumbled, and it seemed genuine as the flash of guilt in her grey eyes said as much.
Ser Arys raised his hands up in surrender, mumbling about propriety.
"Don't apologize to me. Apologize to Lady Whiskers."
"Sorry Lady Whiskers." Arya said. "But I wasn't going to hurt her. I was just trying to capture her. Syrio said I have to be quick as a cat!"
Tommen picked up the fat cat into his arms, stroking his soft fur and this time it didn't seem to mind as she purred loudly. "Oh." He replied, his head hurting. His head always seemed to hurt when speaking with her. "Why do you have to be as quick as a cat?"
"For Water Dancing!"
"I thought you didn't like dancing."
"I don't! I said water dancing!"
Tommen was puzzled.
Arya was looking at him like he was some stupid simpleton for not knowing the difference. "Oh, tell me about it." Tommen said with a friendly smile. She closed to the gap between them with a scowl on her face until their noses were almost touching. He almost gulped as Lady Whiskers lept out of his arms.
"Are you mocking me?"
Tommen shook his head. "No. I'm not one to mock." He said, wondering if she was about to strike him. Most would have been deterred by Ser Arys presence, but it didn't matter to her. The White Cloak meant nothing. Thankfully, she softened and gave a bright smile and told him all about it. Tommen nodded along and asked the occasional question about the foreign Bravosi fighting style. "Oh," He beamed. "That sounds like a lot of fun! Do you think I could join your instruction once or twice?"
Arya blinked and mumbled, "Bran said it was stupid."
"Well, Bran is an idiot sometimes. I've seen several dares he should not have done." Tommen japed. "It sounds like a lot of fun unless you wouldn't want me too? It wouldn't be princely to impose." The words of House Arryn were as High as Honor and Tommen felt they were good words to live by. A king should be governed by his honor.
"You are nothing like your brother."
His shoulders slouched as he heard his laugh in the back of his ears and felt his hand around his throat. His hand in other places. Joffrey haunted him and he didn't look forward to his eventual he have the strength to stand up to him? Would he be strong enough? Tommen had a sinking suspicion he wouldn't. Weakling. "I know." He whispered.
She punched him on the shoulder. "That's a good thing, you stupid prince!"
Tommen shrugged, at a loss for what to say. Joffrey was the strong one. Mother always said so.
"Meet me in the courtyard at dawn!" She jabbed a finger into his chest. "don't be late! And don't be a baby and complain about anything!"
"Okay." Tommen replied lamely as she bolted from him with a wolfish grin on her face that reminded him of Bran. It made a small smile grace his face. Ser Arys was struggling not to laugh at him. It had him blushing a deep crimson. "Whats so funny?" He asked.
"Nothing, my prince. It's nothing." Ser Arys chuckled at a joke only he seemed to know.
Catelyn
The direwolves were playing underneath the table in mock battle, as her children encouraged them. Even her proper daughter acted like a heathen rooting for Lady. Catelyn should reprimand them, but having them all under one roof again stayed her hand. If only Ned and my two other boys could be here. Still, being with her daughters and Bran made her content. She wiped some food off Brans cheek. "Stay still, my boy." As he groaned in discomfort.
"Mother, I'm a squire!"
"And you're still my boy." Catelyn smiled as she wiped the mashed potatoes from his cheek. "I've missed you very much." She probably overdid it in the courtyard, babying him. She promised herself she wouldn't, but then she saw him in his dashing cloak and the months apart became unbearable. Her worry over the events of the Trident and his wounds manifested the moment she saw her favorite child. It was a terrible thing having a favorite, but Bran had such an easy smile it made it hard not to love him. Her Bran had already done much befriending the Crown Prince was beyond beneficial to his future. It opened up many doors to him.
Arya fed Nymeria underneath the table. She was the victor of the friendly little spat. How you convinced Ned to be sent to Bear Island, I'll never know. She had nothing against Lady Maege. She was a fine woman and her daughters were always welcome in Winterfell, but it was not a life she considered for her daughter.
"Cat," Ned said as he held her."We've tried your way, but she has too much of the wolfsblood in her."They had finished their coupling. A sweet one, just like the ones in Winterfell as they cuddled against the other. If the Gods were good, they would grow old together and see their babes become fathers and mothers.
"But Bear Island, it's such a hard place."
"Maeges daughters are more traditional than you think." He chuckled. "And it'll keep her out of trouble. She is so wild and gods, I can't keep up with her and run Robert's realm." And she knew he was right, but it still made it bitter. How will she be able to get Arya a good match if she dresses a man and wears chain mail? But her Ned had made his choice, and she supported him, however reluctantly.
"I'm going to miss you." She told him. "Are you sure you don't want Sansa to stay with you in court?" It pained her knowing her Ned would be alone.
"I would love nothing more, my lady, but it would be safer to be in the Eyrie and it would do her well to be friends with Roberts daughter." She wondered if another child had been born this night from their lovemaking. Another son could still be born. They could name him Ben for Neds brother. Ben Stark with Neds coloring. "And I'll see Bran soon enough. He shall come with our nephew."
"Promise me, Ned, you'll keep our son safe." Catelyn asked.
"I promise, Cat." He kissed her on the brow. "He won't leave my sight."
And her Ned always kept his word. He was a good man that she had grown to love unconditionally. Still, she tensed as she thought of their nephew. "What is the matter, lady wife?" He asked her.
Catelyn sighed. "I worry about our nephew. Our actions hurt him." When she went to see him in the stables, his eyes were pure ice, but behind them was pain. A pain she didn't mean to inflict.
Ned didn't seem worried in the slightest. "He's fine Cat. I've seen him in our war meetings. I see little bitterness between him and I." He stroked her hair. "He knows we acted in his best interest." Her dear Ned's words did not convince Catelyn, and she told him as much.
"Then you shall set in right." Ned whispered. "I have complete confidence in you, my lady, to mend the fence."
Catelyn laughed. "Have you developed a silver tongue husband from your days in court?"
Ned said with good humor. "I suppose your southron ways are rubbing off on me." As they shared another kiss.
All of her children gathered around made her content, and Catelyn enjoyed all the noise. It had grown too silent in Winterfell without her children running around. Her children safe and happy is all she wished for. "Are you well, mother?" Sansa asked, gazing at her with her eyes. Soft Tully eyes. She has grown more astute from court. It made her wish to weep for the girl she had been.
"I am sweetling just thinking of your father."
"Father is going to skin the Lannisters and Tyrells!" Bran declared with heat. "All the men say so! Father can't lose!"
Arya rolled her eyes. "There won't be any battles, stupid. We have too many men. They would be fools to stand against Father."
"There are going to be battles!" Bran said with a stubborn glint. He imagined duels of valor, no doubt.
"Liar!"
"Stupid!"
They shot at each other in quick succession as the wolves joined in the argument. "Enough," she raised her voice. It cracked like a whip and the wolves quieted. "Bran, apologize to your sister."
"But-"
"Apologize Brandon Stark." Catelyn said his full name, and he wilted.
"Sorry Arya." He said with a contrite voice.
Catelyn glowered at Arya to accept. "It's okay Bran." She said. As the small argument was soothed over. If only this was all I had to worry over. Small quarrels at the dinner table.
Ser Rodrick opened the door. "My lady." He dipped his head. "Your uncle wishes entry. Your answer?" Uncle Brynden always inspired a warmth in her chest. When she was a child, it was always to him they would go to settle their childish problems. He always had a warm look in his eyes and he was always welcomed at her hearth. She nodded her consent.
The years had been kind to her uncle. He had aged well. Even an older man, he held a sturdy frame of a knight with a wry smile on his lips. Bran offered a dutiful nod." Ser." He gazed with a worshipful look of a boy staring at his hero. She smiled. If my nephew didn't offer, I may have suggested Bran to Uncle Brynden.
"Shall you join us uncle at our table?"
"Little Cat," Ser Brynden said gruffly. "Forgive me, I'm afraid my table manners aren't what they used to be." He offered a kind smile to her daughters.
Sansa smiled sweetly. "Tis a pleasure to meet a knight of such valor as yourself."
"Did you ever kill anyone?" Arya asked with no tact as her uncle snorted with laughter at her bluntness.
A reprimanded lay on her lips when he replied. "It's fine Cat, the girl is just curious." He rubbed his chin. "I've killed aye. Not as many as those damn singers claim. Never trust a man who brags about his kills. He's usually full of-" He coughed. "Never mind that last part."
Bran begged him to tell Arya a story of the War of the Ninepenny Kings. Their eyes went big, and even the stern look of her uncle faltered as he launched into some tales. The rest of the dinner passed with little of note. However, his deep blue eyes gazed at her as the children left the table. She saw little warmth behind them. It bothered her. It was so unlike him.
"We need to talk, Cat." He told her. "We need to talk now."
Authors Note: So the reason it took so long was I made the mistake of doing the back end chapters first. The wedding arc is huge, and I didn't realize how big it would get so I had to back and do the first few POVs. I pretty much have two chapters, and the other ones are done. But I'm going to wait at least a week before submitting it. I want to look over it and I figured you guys wouldn't want me to dump like 20K words on you in some mega wedding chapter. Alright that said, next up Mya makes her debut as a POV, reconciliations are made between Stark/Arryn, a wedding/bedding is had and they march off to war. Afterwards, we are heading to the Reach/Stormlands as Tywin and Renly make their moves and the War for Margaerys Ear enters a new stage!
As always I love seeing reviews! They give me inspiration!
gangui: Glad you liked it!
Luthanora: Well, thank you for the review. I try my best, but I'm sorry you didn't enjoy it. I hope you find other stories that you'll enjoy! I appreciate this criticism, I like to think Jasper gets better cause I wanted to do a character arc as he makes most of his biggest mistakes early on and grows from them. I wouldn't consider myself a skilled author, but I love the world and I love playing in it! I hope you have a good day!