Hello everyone. I do hope all of you are enjoying this week. I am sure I am! I made this chapter long, so hopefully, all of you will enjoy it! The next set of updates is as follows, so please stay tuned! It's going to be a really fantastic week.
-The White Lion of the Red Keep (Two chapters)
-Boku No Overlord (Two chapters because I'm Shakira, and I like to give people what they want.)
See you all later!
Also, if you wish to follow me on Tumblr! You will see the next updates, Artwork, or ask me anything about my works or what you'll like to see in the future, and get more news! As well as how to support me directly!
( paulythide . tumblr . com )
Chapter 12
There was an eerie silence that echoed in the entire throne room. The many noble houses and families just stood there, watching, utterly terrified at the giant beasts accompanying the Stark family. They have never seen a Direwolf face to face. Some thought they didn't exist before today. A tale from old scary histories. But now, all of that seemed to be nothing but a lie. Those Direwolf were there, sniffing the air, growling, overshadowing any blade or armour.
Brandon's Direwolf, Blacktail, growled around, sensing those eyes from the Kingsguard and many others who wished to hurt his master's family. Blacktail was already the biggest of all the Stark's Direwolves and easily towered over a full-grown steed. All of the Direwolves were effortlessly as tall as a horse, and honestly, it wouldn't be surprising if they could ride them to battle. Nevertheless, Blacktail, just like Brandon, felt that it was their duty to protect their younger siblings from any harm or threat.
That's why the black Direwolf let a loud growl, loud enough for everyone in the throne room to flinch. The Kingsguard quickly grabbed their swords, ready to lay their lives for their precious king, but they were met by Brandon's mocking chuckles.
"Easy there, Blacktail, you can't be sneering around Southerners... they are easily frightened," Brandon stated mockingly.
The rest of the nobles didn't, particularly like being told they were cowards at whatnot. Yet, they couldn't say more as the rest of the Direwolves glared at them.
"The Wolf has ice in their blood," Aerys muttered as he stared at the Stark family with his shiny purple eyes.
Rickard glanced at Galadriel, who nodded at him. It was time to present themselves. Go on, dad. You can do this! Galadriel gave her father the thumbs up as the Stark patriarch sighed.
"Your grace. You called, I answer," Rickard stated as he and the rest of the Stark family knelt before the king. "I, and my kin, are here as you requested."
King Aerys felt all high and mighty as Lord Stark knelt before him. He glanced around the room with quite a smug face, looking at how everyone stared back at them. His eyes, those crazy purple eyes, made his madness show. But also his arrogance and pride.
"See, what doubt was out there that the Starks weren't loyal to the crown?" Aerys commented, glaring at anyone foolish enough to say anything. "Here they are, bending the knee to their king. What else there is to say?"
Some murmurs were heard as Galadriel looked around. She hissed, watching how some nobles tried to think of a solution to a problem they could never fix. Nevertheless, they weren't a bother to her. Now, it was time to let her father show that he wasn't a man to be looked down upon. As so was their entire family.
"Of course, your grace. The Stark family has made sure to show up since you called them. Only a fool would dare to go against the crown's commands. We expected nothing less from the Warden of the North and his family," Lord Tywin spoke. That made Galadriel frown, wondering what he was looking for.
"You speak of them highly, Lord Tywin," Aerys replied, narrowing his eyes on his Hand. "Are you surprised that they arrived in time?" Aerys asked, already knowing what his Hand was trying to do, and he seemed amused by it. Lord Tywin didn't smile; he simply stared down at them, and one could see a smirk in his green eyes.
"Absolutely, your grace. We know that up there, the Sun doesn't come out too often... it may lead to sleep depravity and long hours of sleep. Cold weather isn't for everyone. While we have warm water to shower, they may not have such luxuries. I was worried we'll have to wait until they fixed themselves to look properly in our present. A letter may be sufficient for them to tell us about such issues but then again... I didn't want to make them nervous about writing to us."
That back-handed comment made the Stark's clunch their jaw, as the giggles around them made them angrier. Of course, they know about the tropes and stereotypes of how Northfolk were lazy because they spent their entire lives sleeping and passing their time drinking on dark winters. About how dirty they were because they obviously didn't know how to boil water to shower. Also, they believed that every Northerner was illiterate or something. That did make Galadriel angry. Since she actually put a lot of effort into fixing all of that. Those tropes, cliches and stereotypes were a thing of the past. However, she noticed the reasoning behind that statement.
He is looking for bait...? Is Lord Tywin is just trying to anger my father and family to get a reaction from us? Quite childish but incredibly efficient.
Galadriel heard some chuckles from the rest of the nobles and could see the eyes of her family. All of them were utterly pissed off by being insulted in such a manner. However, that wasn't the time for their revenge. That would come later. Now, Galadriel stared at her father, who kept a calm face. But, in those grey eyes of his. A wolf lurked in the shadows.
Lord Tywin seemed surprised that Lord Rickard didn't take the bait, and the fact his face was a perfect poker face, made him reconsider his previous assessment of the man.
Aerys chuckled, looking down at Lord Rickard. The king simply smiled, deciding to put more wood on the fire. "You hear my Hand, Lord Stark. Was it true, then? All of what he said?"
Aerys smirked widely, wanting to see what'll happen. Yet, Lord Stark simply remains stoic.
"I appreciate Lord Tywin's concerns. But, he shouldn't be worried about us, Northfolk. We have quite the hard time showering true," Lord Rickard stated, much to the surprise of everyone. However, he still needed to finish his sentences. "Our people have a hard time finding Jasmines and Roses to wash our hair and bodies. It became so hard that we simply used Lavender and White Lily Oil. It is truly a challenging time for us. Especially since our natural Hot Springs are always full after each evening. Since a good bath is every Northener's reward after a hard day's work."
Lord Rickard's words shocked everyone; even the King was confused about the products they used to wash their hair. It was something used sparingly. Galadriel knew that currently, in Westeros, there were few ways to wash one's hair. So, with the help of Albedo and Pandora's Actor, they went beyond to find a way to create products to clean themselves better and make it public knowledge. Everyone in the North knew how to make White Lily Oil now. A straightforward, effective substance to wash hair. Of course, it was a product they didn't sell down South. Since White Lily only grows North. Galadriel smirked, happy that all of their new hygienic products were slowly starting to become popular, not only with the Northerner nobility but also with the common folk. Galadriel would make sure, everyone learns how to shower properly. However, she also wanted to create those products and sell them for profit. She'll start in Essos, then the South of Westeros. And a good revenge would be selling those things a quite an expensive price.
Still, Galadriel was happy to see her father deal with Tywin's arrogance.
"Of course, I'll love to speak more about it or perhaps even write Lord Tywin about said products. However, I'll like for him to write my name correctly. It's Rickard, not Rickkard. A small misspelling, no doubt. So don't worry."
Galadriel was about to burst out laughing. Lyanna snorted loudly, earning a glare from Lyarra, hiding her smile behind her hand. She was genuinely proud of her husband.
Lord Tywin's face went red, with either shame or anger. Galadriel was curious to know if that misspelling was real or not. However, she knew her father wasn't a person who lied. So, that made her believe that Tywin knew about that error but believed Lord Stark didn't notice it. Galadriel truly believed that Tywin purposely misspelt her father's name wrong in order to use it later as a small back-handed comment. About how the Warden of the North couldn't even read his name properly, or something along those lines. However, it was now being used against him.
Congratulations, Lord Tywin, you've played yourself. Galadriel smirked, watching Aery's smile now. The rumours were true. Everyone mocked Tywin before he earned his approval.
"Good! Good!" Aerys replied, fascinated by the Stark Lord. "A good way to show some decency to my Lord Hand."
Tywin Lannister's face went dark, but he kept calm and didn't let it show. He'll get his due in time. But now, Aerys turned to watch the Direwolves and Galadriel.
"Those Direwolves. Are they like in the legends of old? What about the supposed Warping abilities of your kin?"
Now, that did surprise the Stark family. It seemed that while Aerys was mad, he had quite the mind still. And it showed that he was a person who had read a lot in the past.
Rickard turned to Galadriel, who looked tentative. Yet, she simply shook her head at him.
"My children have yet to discover such a thing... but the Direwolves are fully obedient to my children."
"Fully obedient?" Tywin asked, now confused about such a possibility. He didn't believe it. Nor wanted those things nearby. "I doubt such a thing. Those are beasts. They can't be tamed. You're putting everyone at risk here. Especially the king and the Royal family."
"We aren't a threat unless you wish harm upon us," Rickard stated, now glaring at Tywin. He also had his own cold eyes and could compete with Tywin.
"It's that a threat... Lord Stark? Are you threatening your grace?" Tywin's voice would have made anyone quiver in fear. Everyone remembers the Rains of Castamere. And knew what the Great Lion of the Rock could do if angered. However, Tywin wasn't dealing with a Southerner Lord. No, he was dealing with a Northerner. A Stark and they weren't scared people.
"No, I'm not threatening your grace. I'm threatening you."
Everyone gasped at that declaration, and some whispers began immediately. Tywin didn't like being played with. He didn't like challenges from anyone. And to see, Rickard Stark, staring at him, warning him, daring to look down upon his title. Made him furious.
"Explain why we should let you have this... mutts around the Red Keep?" Tywin hissed slowly, clutching his teeth.
The Warden of the North simply scoffed at him.
"Explaining such a topic to you will be a waste of time, Lord Hand," Rickard declared, almost jokingly, as if he were making fun of Lord Tywin's title as Hand of the King. "This is beyond a family like yours, Lord Tywin. Only those with histories, such as the Targaryen and the Stark, will understand what type of blood ruins in our veins."
Now, Aerys looked mildly offended. Yet, intrigued all the same. "Are you saying that the Stark are equal to the Targaryen?" The king asked, and Rickard knew he had to tread carefully now.
"On the history of our houses, your grace. The Targaryen had their dragons. The Starks have their Direwolves. The Starks became Kings of Winter 8000 years ago and protect the real of what lies beyond the Wall. The Targaryen are one of the Great Families of Ancient Valyrian, and the blood of the Dragon runs in their blood. Like the Blood of the First Man and the Old Gods runs in ours. Magic is something our families understand and respect. Others do not."
Aerys stared at Rickard carefully, and for a moment, no one knew how the king would reply. "True words, Lord Stark. Those of lesser history mock the notion of magic. They believed it was long gone. That Dragons do not exist anymore. And that magic is nothing but an old woman's tale. However, watching those Direwolves with my own eyes. I can see... that magic is returning to this world. And that the Stark... are true, above the rest. Perhaps, the only house worth something."
He only replied as he started scratching his long bear for a while, thinking or planning something. The king turned to see Rhaegar, who had kept silent for a time, as he watched everything unfold.
"A Song of Ice and Fire... the dream of Aegon... the rise of the Dragon."
Aerys looked at Galadriel for a brief moment. And those golden eyes seemed to send him into a trance before making him smile.
"So be it," Aerys stood up, glancing at everyone. "My son Rhaegar, the prince of the Seven Kingdoms, and your oldest daughter will unite our houses. They will bring magic to our blood. Dragons will fly in the skies once more. All those lessers will kneel. The wedding shall the place as soon as possible."
Aerys's words practically brought panic to the entire throne room. A certain lord of the Stormlands was almost fuming as the woman of his dream was being shipped away to a dragon. Tywin Lannister's dreams of building a legacy were being ripped away from his hand, and there wasn't anything he could do about it. However, for the Stark family, it was something they expected. It didn't matter how much they hated the idea of it.
Galadriel simply nodded. "Well, this is just as we expected it."
The night came, but the day wasn't over. The start of a large party that would begin tomorrow's tourney would just initiate soon. But, among all the people there, the Stark family was utterly baffled and furious about the king's decision.
"Can we do anything about it, Rickard?" Lyarra begged her husband for an answer, but he shook his head.
"Nothing. Aerys is the king... he takes what he wants," he muttered, doing an incredible job of hiding his anger.
Brandon was sitting on his chair as Blacktail looked at his master with worried eyes, whining softly. He didn't have to say anything to let his feelings be known. Those grey eyes showed enough. "So, he ordered you to give Galadriel's hand? And we are just going to simply accept it? That's it...?"
Rickard glanced at his oldest. "We have no choice."
"No choice..." Brandon hissed angrily. "No choice? I see many..."
"I agree, father... I don't like giving into the king's desires," Ned added, showing his overprotective side. "Are we truly going to... give Galadriel as if she were a sheep? Are we truly selling her...?! My sister, like a toy for him to enjoy?"
"Fuck the king," Lyanna muttered. "Fuck him and his silver-haired cunt of a son."
"Lyanna!" Lyarra glared at her daughter. "We don't speak like that... Never! We don't call other people cunts! Especially here, where they have ears and eyes everywhere. Wait until we return to Winterfell."
Galadriel sighed at her family and knew their anger was justified. However, they had to look into the bigger picture. The Stark becoming part of the royal family was a huge deal, putting them on a higher pedestal than before. As well as to serve Galadriel's future plans she had in store. But, also, those words of the king. "The Song of Ice and Fire." That did make her wonder what the king meant by it. Nevertheless, Galadriel needed to let her family understand everything was going according to her plans.
"Alright, enough," Galadriel said as everyone turned to see her. "I hear you. I truly understand what all of you mean by this. But, causing problems with a king known to burn people who look bad at him isn't a good idea."
Galadriel's words seemed to calm them all, albeit shortly. "It's going to be problematic refusing the king and dangerous. That's why I'll marry the prince."
"Galadriel?!" Lyanna and Brandon exclaimed, followed by Lyarra's gasp.
"Galadriel, surely, you're not thinking of accepting this...!" Ned exclaimed, now staring at his sister, completely stunned.
"It's not a matter of wanting, but something that'll happen regardless of what we want. We knew this was the outcome. Don't we?" Galadriel stared at everyone there, as they couldn't deny such truth. "Besides, we must look at the bigger picture. This will benefit the North as a whole. And I'm not talking about gold or prestige. But the dark future ahead of us."
Rickard frowned as he stared at his oldest daughter. "What do you mean?"
"Father, what's the Night's Watch duty?"
"To protect us from what lies beyond the realm of men..."
"Exactly..." Galadriel sighed, and her father had the calmest head among her family members. But he was also incredibly aggravated by the entire situation. "We must be prepared for whatever it's out there... all of us."
Galadriel knew that whatever magic the Drowned God had would spread worldwide. And the rest of the gods would become slightly powerful and aware of it. That action would certainly cause a sudden uprising of the Magic of the world. She had yet to see how much that would affect her siblings, but thankfully, it would be positive for them.
Still, Galadriel would be out there, hunting those creatures that called themselves Gods.
And slowly, I'll craft the perfect path to bring everyone to heel. Galadriel smiled, although it would take time for that. Well, in any case... it has to be done. Although, I wonder if what Pandora's Actor said would be true? And we will only have to do a little before the South does something stupid and give us the perfect excuse to act.
Galadriel thought as she stared at her father, who looked at her sadly.
"So, you consent to this match?" Rickard whispered, watching his oldest daughter nod.
"Yes. I do," Galadriel replied while earning groans from everyone in the room. Quite melodramatic. But don't worry, my dear family! This marriage isn't going to be like you all expected it! In fact... this is the start of Stark's legacy in the world.
"I see," Rickard muttered slowly. Galadriel did feel horrible but gave her dear father a gentle peck.
"Everything it's going to be alright... trust me. This is for the good of our family and our people."
"Our people..."
"Yes, we must think how this will benefit the North in the long run. It's our duty."
"But..."
"Lyanna," Galadriel said softly, looking at her younger sister. "Remember what I told you about our duty to the people of the North?"
"Y-yeah," Lyanna muttered back.
"All of us. We must play the South game during this night party. Now, some will try to seduce Rhaegar or me... for one reason or another. Maybe to score one of Rhaegar's bastards or take me out of the picture by me having the bastard of some noblemen. And that's one of the most obvious plots going around... there are more to come."
Galadriel's statements were harsh for them to listen to. Yet, it was something true to them. However, Galadriel just found the whole thing amusing.
"You mean someone will try to kill you?" Eddard whispered as his ice eyes became colder.
"It is a possibility..."
"Seven fucking hells," Brandon muttered angrily.
"However, we must be careful of those who want to get closer to our family. And since Brandon, Eddard, and Lyanna are still unwed. This is a good score for them."
The Stark siblings just sighed deeply, realizing they have a target on their heads as well.
"We should have stayed in Winterfell," Lyarra whispered, suddenly exhausted and stressed.
"Don't worry, mother, everything will be just fine."
Galadriel hummed slowly, preparing herself for what would surely be an entertaining night.
The night came down, and the large gathering of nobles' houses proved how vital the dance would be. It was the most critical fortnight for all families there. The announcement that Rhaegar, the King's son, was now officially betrothed to the oldest Stark daughter created chaos among all nobles who wanted their daughters to become future queens. But now that it was announced it. Those who still wanted to play game of thrones needed another route to achieve their goals. One that was doomed from the start.
Those petty ladies tried their hardest to look elegant and beautiful. And while some were undoubtedly a sight to behold. None of them compared to Galadriel's beauty and delicacy.
Her white-snowy hair reflected beautifully, those deep golden eyes. Her gown was elegant and seemed highly expensive, clearly above everyone else. An elegant Wolf, fit to be Queen.
Although, to be honest, the Starks were the centre of attention. It was clear to some of the most intelligent families there knew they must adapt quickly and get closer to the Starks now. Especially since three of them were unwed so far.
So the game was on, and Galadriel found it thoroughly amusing.
Rhaegar approached Galadriel and offered his hand to his betrothed. Galadriel took it with a smile as both walked towards the dancing floor.
"I must ask forgiveness, my lady," Rhaegar whispered while slowly putting his hand around Galadriel's waist.
"Why would you ask for forgiveness?" Galadriel asked, tilting her head and focusing on her steps. Trying not to smash the prince's feet.
"I had envisioned asking for your hand a while ago... but correctly. I wanted to... do it gently."
"Ah, I see," Galadriel only hummed. Well, at least he tried, correct? In anycase, where are my siblings?
Galadriel looked around and could see immediately, without problem, where was Stark's siblings. Brandon was surrounded by beautiful ladies, all giggling and moaning deeply, just in love with the man that was Brandon Stark. Galadriel could know that he was still incredibly furious about everything. However, Brandon was still extremely horny. Angry and lustful, a terrible combination. And no doubt, Brandon would use that as a coping mechanism, making Galadriel sigh internally. She knew that he would take the maidenhood of a few ladies there and would not be surprised if some of those ladies near Brandon, chuckling and blushing, would bear a Stark bastard.
Well, truthfully, I don't care... as long they aren't Notherner ladies, Brandon can have at it. Go, my dear brother... sire babies all over King's Landing.
Galadriel then saw, Lyanna and chuckled internally. Lyanna simply looked quiet, aghast at the attention she was receiving. Galadriel's little sister was quite beautiful, and her unusual, tomboyish and still mature look was exotic. Still, Lyanna looked very uncomfortable and right down angry. Maybe, she was still too young to be awed by men's flirting, or perhaps Lyanna didn't find them particularly attractive. It was hard to say. Galadriel still needed to learn what Lyanna liked.
Still, she'll keep an eye out for her little sister. It was her duty to protect her.
Galadriel then looked at Eddard, her beloved twin brother. And just like Brandon, he was surrounded by ladies of all sorts. The thing was that he wasn't Brandon. Eddard simply had a permanent scowl on his face and kept his hand close to his chest. Ignoring all ladies there. However, Galadriel noticed a spark of interest in Eddard's eyes. Galadriel quickly glanced in the direction those eyes were staring and saw a charming woman sitting and blushing in the corner of the throne room, away from everyone.
Oh? A woman has earned the attention of my dear brother? Galadriel smirked, now entering on her jealous sister's behaviour. If there was a woman who would captivate her twin's brother's love, it had to be, unique, and beautiful. She would take no less. In fact, for a short while, she doubted anyone was worthy of Eddard's love. Mm, the woman is very attractive. She does have quite the childbearing waist man do love a lot. Yet, it's that smile and those eyes. They are... pure. Mmhm, truly pure. Galadriel thought, as she saw how that woman with long dark hair blushed at Eddard's stare, simply looking away, while nervously playing with her hair. Like a sort of high school girl.
Cute... she's truly cute.
Galadriel smiled before glancing at the prince, who seemed to have been talking all this time.
Oh, was he speaking to me?
"That's what I thought at the beginning," Rhaegar whispered softly, trying to look at her golden eyes that mesmerized him so much. All the while, Galadriel was trying to look interested.
"Yeah, I think the same," Galadriel only replied, not knowing what the prince said.
"T-truly? You felt the same...?" Rhaegar whispered, with his purple eyes shining brightly.
Uwah, what with those puppy's eyes of him? What was he talking about? Galadriel kicked herself, realizing she had to pay more attention to whatever that guy was talking about.
"Umh, absolutely... I guess?"
Rhaegar smiled brightly, kissing her hand. "Thank you, my lady. I'll remember that."
"Uh, yeah..."
Galadriel then looked at her mother, sitting near the Queen on the high table. Both were simply silent all this time. Not saying much. However, the Queen looked quite intimidated by Lyarra's aura. It just said "kill", making Galadriel sigh.
Easy there, mother. You're scaring the Queen.
"My prince, please allow me to spend time with my siblings. There are still a lot of people who wish to dance with you... and I. It's only proper for the prince to listen to his subjects."
Rhaegar sighed, looking like a kicked puppy again. "I wish not to touch no other women's skin but yours."
Galadriel tried her hardest not to snort but smiled at him. "Of course, my prince. But don't worry, everyone knows who will be your wife in a fortnight. Nothing will change that. And worry not, for any other men who wish to dance with me. I shall let them know... that I am only yours."
Galadriel held back the gagging reflex from saying those words. No one would dare to say she couldn't act appropriately.
Rhaegar's smiled brightly and had quite a smug face. "And every one shall know it."
Galadriel bowed gently before walking towards, Lyanna, who seemed to be against the wall and ready to explode. She was leaning on the wall, just utterly irritated by those older men looking at her. Do they know I'm not even old enough to marry yet?! Lyanna growled, perhaps not wanting to hear their excuses.
"Such a delicate flower of the North; tell me, dear, have those savages told you about the pleasures of being a woman?" A Reach Lord, with long and ludicrous hair, whispered trying to sound like a man who seduces women on a daily. However, paying for whores wasn't the same as seducing ladies. Still, the old man, couldn't look away from the young girl. He liked them like that. Not old, just barely fifteen, and from what she knew, Lyanna Stark was still to reach that age. Still, he couldn't look away from those chests of hers, that waist and exposed shoulder and neck. Lyanna was truly gifted to look already mature. No doubt, thanks to Galadriel meddling with her magic. Allowing her little sister to sprout like a gorgeous winter flower.
"Mm? Have those unwashed men, make you feel glad to be born a woman?" He leered at her, as Lyanna scoffed.
"No."
The Lord smiled at those words, liking that no man has touched her yet.
"A Northener maiden... a rare sight truly," the lord approached her and had the audacity to touch Lyanna's hair. "I'll bring you to my room tonight, and take you from behind, and make him into a woman, perhaps maybe a mother too... what you say? My dear innocent wolf?"
Lyanna gritted her teeth before snapping back at the Reach's Lord. Thankfully, Galadriel arrived first.
"My lords, please, can I have a word with my dear sister?" Galadriel said before stepping hard on that Lord's feet, shattering all the bones. However before the lord could scream in pain, Galadriel was quickly cast an [Time Lower Pause] before using [Knock Out] and [Slow Death]. No one noticed it, of course. For Galadriel, time slowed down making it easier to cast all of that in a quick motion, but for them, it was in a blink of an eye, as if nothing had happened. All of that allowed her to kill the Lord, who disrespected her sister without no one realizing it. It would look like he had a heart attack and nothing more.
If I were a Necromancer, I'd love to use [Grasp Heart], but this one is almost the same... although [Slow Death] is weaker. But you're lucky you disgusting pig... you're lucky to have a quick and painless death all things considered.
Galadriel hissed, looking at the Lord pass out on the floor while many tried to find out what happened to him.
"Lord Durwell?! Lord Durwell?" One of the lord's acquaintances approached the pass-out lord who didn't reply at all to their screaming.
"Hey...! Bring help! The maesters!"
"Oh, father?! Father, what happened?"
Galadriel simply looked coldly at the unconscious lord who was seconds away from death. Yet, she showed an innocent face.
"Maybe he drank too much?" Galadriel simply stated innocently before taking Lyanna's hand, who looked shocked at the sudden Lord falling to the ground.
They left the lord's family behind, who were all trying to seek out help without any luck. It was too late, for them already. Galadriel only counted to fifteen, and the last breath of the lord was exhaled.
"What happened?" Lyanna asked, confused.
"Nothing, don't worry about it," Galadriel only said, smiling at her sister. Lyanna saw the Lord being carried away and simply shrugged it off. She thought that whatever happened to that annoying person, he deserved it.
"Now, Lyanna, before anything begins. We must do something important."
Galadriel said it in a way it sounded like it was necessary as if secrecy was a must in whatever conversation they were going to have. Lyanna stared at her with keen eyes, wondering what does it mean. But nodded seriously at Galadriel.
"What is it?" She asked urgently before Galadriel simply smiled at her.
"Look," Galadriel pointed at Eddard, who was still looking at the same woman with purple eyes all this time. That was all Lyanna needed to see before smirking widely.
"Well, well, what do we have here?"
Galadriel then stared at her and smiled. "Let's go."
Ned stared at the woman with purple eyes and dark hair. He couldn't simply look away. Something in her drew him in. And just wanted to go and approach her. But those ladies around him made it hard to say anything at all.
"So, milord, no woman to yet call wife? No one to give you many children?" One of the Southerner ladies asked, trying to show off her ample breast. Still, Ned simply ignored it. He wasn't Brandon, who could merely glare back with lust.
"No," he simply replied, ignoring the ladies' smirks.
"Oh, there's no lady to warm your bed tonight?" Another lady smirked, slowly caressing Ned's arm. "I heard how Northerner men are all... savages, just like your women. But in a good way. Beasts in the shape of men. I wonder... if you're like one of your wolves in bed?"
The lady honestly thought her prejudiced remarks would make Ned take her. That he would lose all cool and show that he lusted for her. Honestly, not the most intelligent lady in the bunch. Ned simply stared at her, wholly furious and disgusted.
"Please, stay away from me," Ned hissed, much to the woman's surprise. However, before she could say anything else, a certain voice made them all stop.
"My dear brother, care to dance with your sister?" Galadriel's words were a godsend to Ned, who was thankful to be out of that situation. Galadriel and Lyanna practically made their way in, pushing away all those nasty ladies of the South.
"I was talking with him...! You-!" The lady exclaimed, earning a grow from Lyanna, who hissed lowly.
"Be wary. We Northerner girls are savages, remember? We can snap at any moment... and you don't want a wolf ripping your face off, don't you?" Lyanna growled like a wolf would, surprising even Galadriel, who saw Lyanna's eyes shining brightly.
That's... new. Galadriel would check her sister out later and find out how she could sound like a wolf and have her eyes shine like that.
"I-"
"Shut it," Lyanna growled before the three Stark siblings left those ladies behind.
"Thank you," Ned whispered, tired. "They couldn't take a no for an answer."
"You're very popular after all," Galadriel teasingly whispered as Ned whined.
"Don't go there..."
"Why, my dear brother? Aren't you happy that many Southerner ladies want to jump you?" Lyanna now added teasingly.
"No," Ned simply replied, earning a scoff from Lyanna.
"You aren't funny... but we should be thankful. We have our hands full with Brandon already," Lyanna huffed as the three siblings watched Brandon already with two beautiful ladies at his side and one on his lap. Smiling and chuckling. Truly enjoying himself.
"Wasn't he supposed to be angry...?" Galadriel muttered, amusingly.
"Well, he was..." Lyanna added with a scoff.
"Yeah, our mother will tear him a new one," Ned whispered, just shaking his head.
However, soon enough, Lyanna and Galadriel keep on walking with Eddard between them. Now, Eddard was confused about where they were going but quickly panicked when he saw the direction they were all walking towards. Galadriel and Lyanna then smirked as they took her brother by the arm where the lady with purple eyes was sitting, much to Ned and that woman's surprise.
"Wh-what are you two doing?"
"Nothing," Galadriel and Lyanna teased, soon approaching the quite nervous.
"Hello, my lady, pleasure to meet you," Galadriel's smile made the woman nervous, and she blushed. But not just by looking at her, but Ned too. "May we know your name? Please?"
The woman coughed nervously, trying to sit straight, still, the anxiety was visible on her face.
"Pleasure... my ladies, my Lord. My name is Ashara Dayne."
Dayne...? Dayne... where did I hear that name before? Galadriel hummed before remembering it. "Are you related to Ser Arthur Dayne, perhaps? The Sword of the Morning?"
Ashara's eyes blinked at that, and a vast smile appeared. "Yes, he is my older brother," Ashara replied with a genuine smile.
"Oh, the Sword of the Morning is your brother? Nice, is he as good as they say?" Lyanna asked, tilting her head as now Ashara frowned.
"Of course," she replied. "The best knight in all the Seven Kingdoms, only behind Ser Barristan."
"Mm... really?" Lyanna didn't look convinced. "I think I can take him."
Ashara's scoffed quickly, almost amused. "I doubt it, my lady."
"I'm no lady..."
"Alright," Galadriel clapped before Lyanna got ready to start a fight. "I knew I recognized those eyes. I had the pleasure of meeting Ser Arthur before. He looks... uhm... kind? A bit standoffish and a bit serious. Perhaps too serious."
Ashara chuckled, nodding. "Yes, that sounds like my brother, alright."
Galadriel gave a slight shove to Ned, who was lost in Ashara's beauty and scoffed slightly, glaring at Ned to say something. "My lady, why are you by yourself?" Ned finally spoke.
Ashara stared at him, and Galadriel and Lyanna just knew it. There was a connection there. It was funny and ridiculous to see. Almost love at first sight.
"I came here with my dear friend, princess Elia Martell, but she's currently trying to find her brother," Ashara replied, and for the looks of it. She looked pretty annoyed. There was only one place that man could be.
"So, you're by yourself... that needs to be fixed," Galadriel stated as Lyanna smirked.
"Definitely, that's why I believe my dear and handsome brother should stay here with you. Making sure you're safe and protected."
Ned's face became red, and Ashara's seemed to follow. Both began muttering words, that made no sense, all the while blushing deeply. Lyanna snorted at the sight and Galadriel simply shook her head at both dorks.
What are they...? High school students? What's with all this blushing? Galadriel thought, amused.
"If my lady doesn't mind me staying next to her. I'll love to spend time with her..."
"I-I don't want to bother you, my good lord!" Ashara sputtered nervously. "It's not that I don't want to spend time with you. It's... I just don't want to trouble you!"
"You trouble me, my lady? Never," Ned stated quickly.
"But... I'm a bored woman... I don't have much to offer... I'm not a lady of a great house..." Ashara whispered, blushing deeply, as Ned simply smiled at her.
"I may not know you well enough to say anything, my lady. But spending time with you should never be boring. And titles, I don't need them... just you."
Ashara's face turned bright red as she looked down, and she started to play with her fingers, muttering slowly.
"Can we dance, perhaps?" Ashara rumoured shyly.
Ned took her hand and kissed it softly.
"All night, if you wish."
Lyanna and Galadriel simply glanced at each other with a huge smile as they left both lovebirds alone. To pure! Those two are the way to pure for this world! Galadriel screamed internally, happy for her brother to find at least someone worthy.
"I want at least five nieces and nephews," Galadriel muttered.
"Ten... let's make it ten," Lyanna added and Galadriel only nodded.
"Wise words, Lyanna, wise words."
The night went on, and it was clear things were slowly becoming dull as more people drank and ate. For Galadriel, however, it was becoming tiresome, as she was now the focus of a certain prince who had just arrived a few minutes ago.
"My dear lady... if I had known about you sooner. I would have ridden all the way north just to see you."
Galadriel rolled her eyes as she danced with prince Oberyn Martell. The prince had quite a charming tongue. She would not lie about that, and he does have a distinct way of expressing himself. Oberyn wasn't an ugly man, either. Maybe it was his rough and clearly dangerous side that make girls weak. Honestly, one of the reasons he had so many bastards himself was that he knew how to speak and seduce, and his elegance and prince status truly gave him what was necessary to snare anyone he wanted.
Of course, anyone but Galadriel.
"Would you now?" Galadriel replied, raising an eyebrow as the prince spun her during their dance. He touched her waist and teasingly smiled at her before continuing their dance.
"Oh, truly..."
Oberyn caressed the exposed skin on her shoulders, trying to use his chocolate eyes. "What can a mortal man do to spend a night with a goddess like you? What can I do... to just experience you for one night?" He whispered into her ear, and commonly. A woman would squirm and moan at such action. And Oberyn expected as much. Yet, he heard a chuckle.
"My dear prince... are you suggesting I break my vows to my prince for a night with you?" Galadriel stared at him amusingly. Are you dumb or something? Do you know people are looking at you and want to kill you? Galadriel thought, since not only was her family looking at the scene but also Rhaegar and a drunk lord who was fuming. But, a particular Succubus demon who had been there all this time, watching in the shadows, was almost ready to smash the prince's head.
"One night, a sinful night... you and me... and let the gods decide our fate," Oberyn whispered as his hands slowly travelled further way down, below her hips.
Yeah... no. Galadriel thought, amused by the man's gall. You're lucky that you're a prince and that the Martell family and Dorne are our great customers. Otherwise, I would have killed another person today.
Galadriel stops his hand from travelling way down. "I thank your kind words. But, I take my compromise to the prince seriously."
Oberyn seemed disappointed but smiled. "But of course... yet, if your life with the future king proves boring. I'll always be ready to satisfy you."
He is truly a man who aims way above his tier. You're nothing compared to my dear Albedo.
"My prince... I don't like-"
"Prince Oberyn," Rhaegar spoke, approaching the dancing floor. "I believe you're making my betrothed uncomfortable with your statements."
"My prince Rhaegar, that's not what I intended to do," Oberyn replied, smirking. "I was merely mentioning a future prospect."
"A future failure," Galadriel replied, stepping away from the prince. Quite irritated.
Oberyn simply raises his hand, quickly trying to ease things out. He knew when a fight was lost, and a woman was beyond his reach. "Apologize, my prince, my lady. Never intended for this to go far. In the name of the Martell family, I wish to ask for forgiveness."
Galadriel looked at Rhaegar, who nodded. "All forgiven, prince Oberyn."
Galadriel watched the prince flee before getting attacked by his sister, Elia Martell, who was furious. Thankfully, Princess Elia Martell would get some sense into him.
Galadriel sighed as Rhaegar then approached her. "It's everything... did he touch you inappropriately?"
The evening was taking a toll on Galadriel's temperament and increasing her annoyance. Taking the role of a lady was hard, especially when one had to just act like one.
"No, he didn't."
Galadriel gagged as she touched his shoulder. "Nothing bad happened to me, Rhaegar."
Rhaegar simply closed his eyes and hummed. "Good. We don't need more people speaking about... you not being pure."
Rhaegar whispered those words, so no one could hear them. Galadriel knew, of course, what does that mean. She has heard them before. The whispers about if her maidenhood was still intact and whatnot. All irritating and whatever. Still, it was a sacrifice to pay for her plans to come to fruition.
"My prince... it's late, and we have two weeks ahead of us... including the tourney starting tomorrow. I wish to rest now."
"Please, let me guide you to your room..."
"Of course... but I fear it would be better if my sister did it. People don't need to come to wrong assumptions."
"Ah, you're right... of course," Rhaegar replied, a bit sad.
"Until tomorrow, my prince."
Galadriel glanced at her family and knew they would all retire for the night. Lyanna looked simply exhausted like her and ready to fall asleep. Ned was still with Ashara, and both looked utterly in love. Yet, she knew Ned wouldn't try to do anything with her. He wasn't Brandon, who was already gone, definitely enjoying his night activities with some ladies. Lyarra and Rickard were still with the Queen, talking slowly. The king was nowhere to be seen, surprisingly. However, Galadriel hoped both her parents were trying to appease the scared Queen and that nothing terrible would happen.
Lyanna leaned on her shoulder as both walked towards their room. When they entered, Ainz and Lya practically welcomed them with open arms.
"Lya...! I miss you so much!" Lyanna whined as she fell on the bed, hugging her Direwolf. "Did you miss me?!"
Lya whined as she started to lick Lyanna's face.
"Did you get bored, Ainz?" Galadriel asked, softly caressing her Direwolf head. Ainz nodded slowly, enjoying the pats from her. "Sorry... it's been a long night."
"Yeah... I want to sleep!"
Galadriel chuckled as she started to take her clothes off. "At least wash your face... and don't forget to fold your clothes."
"Yeah..." Lyanna slurred the words. "Can you help me remove this horrible and annoying gown?"
Galadriel took a deep breath. "Yes, here, let me help you."
The night came down, and Lyanna and Lya were utterly passed out. The youngest Stark daughter was cuddling her Direwolf, like a big teddy bear, while snoring softly.
Meanwhile, Galadriel sat near the balcony, looking at the city below her. The smell was disgusting even from there.
"Such a pathetic little city," she hissed before hearing a hum from behind her. Galadriel smiled before glancing back.
"You had a rough night, didn't you, Albedo?"
The succubus may herself, known as she, turned her invisibility off.
"It was... quite hard watching those lesser men touch you, yes," Albedo whispered, wasting no time taking her beloved lady into her arms.
Galadriel chuckled. "Sorry for putting you through this. But, it's important."
"I know, I know," Albedo muttered, slowly kissing Galadriel's cheeks, caressing those lips she loved so much. "All for the sake of the mission."
"Exactly. Now, have you learned more about Rhaegar and his family?"
"Yes, my lady. I have, but I'll need more time to learn his behaviours."
Galadriel smiled at the succubus. "Good. Don't worry, we have two weeks. And, who knows? Maybe, something will happen..."
"Are you expecting a conflict to emerge?" Albedo asked with a teasing smile.
"Obviously, they are humans... and they can be pretty passionate. Besides, we have a mad king ready to burn people who looked at him poorly. A bunch of angry lords and ladies who do not want a Northerner as Queen. A certain lord of the Stormlands getting mad at the minute and is beginning to drink more. Jealously from all the rest of the Great Houses who wish to take out the Stark's gold and power. And we have a powder barrel ready to explode. We just need to ignite it."
Albedo kissed Galadriel as the white-haired woman put her arms around the succubus.
"And what will ignite it...?" Albedo asked huskily.
"Oh, many things... but instead of us doing so... let the humans start the fire. It's fun that way."
Galadriel whispered what would transpire in the following weeks as she couldn't wait to see. It would be genuinely quite entertaining for her.