Chapter 2-A New Piece on the Board

The sound of arrows flying and hitting their target could be heard through the training area assigned to the Kingsguard to train and hone their skills. Whether it was the sword, the shield, the spear, or the bow and arrow. Many knights who became Kingsguard spent their days training to hone their skills in case there was a war and they were called into battle to fight for the King or Prince.

In this case, the training area was being used for the bow and arrow target practice.

"Impressive. Your skills with a bow are superb," commented Ser Barristan, who had been ordered by the King to be Sub-Zero's chaperone to ensure no one tried anything toward the Champion of House Targaryen.

One of the reasons Ser Barristan was impressed was due to how Sub-Zero not only hit the targets dead center, but he moved when firing at them, and hitting his target dead center each time. The Lin Kuei Grandmaster had asked for a way to hit moving target while standing still or moving as the targets moved. When Ser Barristan told him it was not possible to get moving targets, at least not in a short amount of time, Sub-Zero had to compensate, and decided he would be the one to move while firing at the target.

"Anyone can fire a bow and arrow at an unmoving target Ser Barristan. It is the moving ones which show a true test of a man's skill. Moving targets are harder to hit. Harder to gauge. And ultimately, harder to kill when aiming for the spot which would be lethal," said Sub-Zero calmly as he had fired the target in front of him.

He had moved left of the target, right of the target, further away from the target, and even crouched when firing at the target for good measure. Sub-Zero had no intention of losing the archery competition and even if did somehow lose...it was best to make his opponent work for the victory.

"I have heard stories of the Dorthraki and their riders can shoot arrows from their horses while moving swiftly across the land. Do your own people have that same skill to shoot arrows while riding?" asked Ser Barristan curiously.

"They do. Where I am from, it was a skill that took years of training, but could be done with enough time and effort," answered Sub-Zero calmly since it was true that archers could shoot from horses with enough training.

"Fascinating. Such skill in archery would be useful to the Kingsguard in the future when riding off into battle. Perhaps, you should consider joining us in order to show my fellow Kingsguard how it is done," offered Ser Barristan, who made it a bit of a habit to recruit young impressionable minds into the Kingsguard if they showed incredible skills capable of defending the King or Prince.

And naturally, he saw great potential in Sub-Zero. Perhaps the King would even allow them to alter the Kingsguard uniform to the man's specifications if it encouraged him to join.

"A tempting offer Ser Barristan, but the Kingsguard restricts my movements to serving the Crown when my skills can be used on a much larger scale. One where the people also benefit. Not just the King," said Sub-Zero before firing another arrow and hitting it dead center.

"I see. I can understand and respect that line of reasoning with how the rules we follow can be...constricting. Though I must admit I am slightly disappointed," said Ser Barristan with Sub-Zero finished firing off his last arrow.

And hitting dead center.

The archery part of the tournament was fast approaching. It wouldn't be long before Sub-Zero proved his worth in that field representing the King as his Champion. Many were hoping the man would fail. Others thought he should succeed despite being a foreigner since it would help knock down some of the more pompous and arrogant competitors in the tournament.

Some were wondering what the Lin Kuei warrior would do with all of the money earned from the archery tournament when combined with fortune obtained from the melee. With the way things were, many speculated the man could buy himself into a powerful house by marrying the daughter of a High Lord. Or maybe setup his own House in a territory of his choosing and become powerful over time.

"Life is unfortunately filled with disappointments," said Sub-Zero before holstering the bow onto his back.

"I couldn't agree more," said Tywin Lannister with a slow methodical step toward the two men and glancing from Sub-Zero to the targets.

"Lord Hand," said Ser Barristan before bowing in respect to the Hand of the King.

"You're skill with a bow is impressive," commented Tywin since he had been observing the man intently when practicing his archery skills.

"Years of practice, training, experience, and discipline," replied Sub-Zero with Tywin nodding in respect to a man who could train and hone his skills to become sharp as an actual blade.

"At this rate, those who wagered you will win the archery competition will win a hefty sum," commented Tywin while omitting the fact he had wagered for Sub-Zero to win or that he did it discreetly through several agents.

If people knew who Tywin Lannister favored in a competition, they would assume his decision was the right one, and everyone would place their bets on Sub-Zero. Which in turn meant less gold for him to collect when the conclusion of the competition ended.

Not only that, but betting on the King's Champion, if only in secret, would put Tywin in good graces with the King himself for when he made the marriage proposition for Cersei to marry Prince Rheagar. One of the servants back home had told Cersei a few years ago that she would be married to Prince Rheagar in the future. At the time, it was merely a plan to bind the Lannister's to the Iron Throne, but nothing solid in terms of making it happen. The very servant who told Cersei about the possible arranged marriage assumed it was true since Tywin was planning it out with his brother Kevan at the time when the discussion the future of their children. Tywin had sounded like it was an assured thing because of his position as Hand of the King, and because the way he talked about it to Kevan made it sound like it would happen in the near future.

Now Cersei had it in her mind that she would one day be Queen of the Seven Kingdoms and it was Tywin's duty as her Father to make sure it happened. Any child she sired with the Prince would cement the Lannister dynasty for over one thousand years.

And it was not just Cersei's future he had to ensure would make House Lannister become unrivaled in the future, but Jamie as well. The boy had no much potential at his age to be something great. Born from the wealthiest House in Westeros. Had a boyish charm at a young age, which would increase when becoming a man. Had the best teachers, tutors, and trainers gold could purchase.

Tywin knew his son had the potential to do great things. There was just one problem.

His son and Heir was also too spoiled as a result of having everything given to him by Tywin when asked. A new horse? Finest horse born and bred in the West was delivered the next day. New clothes? Finest clothing in the South made available by the end of the day. The bed sheets are no longer comfortable? Burned and replaced with softer ones just before lunch.

Another problem was his son tended to get into more trouble then Tywin would like to admit. And what was even worse, the boy always hid behind his Father's name when the people wronged demanded the boy pay for his crimes. When the boy got into a fight with a noble Lord's son and badly injured him? Tywin's name was mentioned as Jamie's Father and all was forgiven. Horrible misunderstanding. When Jamie was spying on a woman in the bedrooms when she was undressing before being caught by the woman's husband? Jamie mentions his Father and what happened to the two Houses who rebelled. The man apologies and begs forgiveness. When Jamie did something stupid in any shape or form, all he did was mention his Father and it was like any indiscretion was suddenly forgiven or wiped clean.

It was amusing yet annoying at the same time. The boy had everything, but a firm grasp on what it meant to be responsible, and to think about how your actions shape the future of your House.

Unfortunately, duties as Hand of the King made his time more difficult these days to keep an eye on his children to ensure they kept their stupidity to a minimum.

"I will do my best not to lose or disappoint those who placed their coin in my favor," said Sub-Zero while suspecting Tywin Lannister was among those who put his wealth on the Lin Kuei warrior to win.

"Not to intrude on your conversation, but why exactly are you here Lord Hand?" asked Ser Barristan to Tywin Lannister with a sense of caution in his eyes at the ambitious man of House Lannister.

"One of the reasons I came here was to talk to the King's Champion. I wanted to meet the man who has made such an impact on our King shortly after arriving in King's Landing," answered Tywin while glancing from Ser Barristan to Sub-Zero.

"And what would wish to discuss Lord Hand?" asked Sub-Zero while deciding to use the man's title since anything less would be disrespectful.

"Why the future of the Seven Kingdoms of course. One with you in it as a key player," said Tywin with Ser Barristan grimacing while Sub-Zero kept himself unreadable due to his face mask.

"With all due respect Lord Hand, I am not one who allows others to use me as their pawn in their plans to advance themselves or their House," said Sub-Zero firmly yet politely.

"I'm sure you are one such person, but in order to have a position of power, you must first serve those already with power," countered Tywin with Sub-Zero still being unreadable to him.

"And what do you see in regards to my future? Serving your House as one of its hidden agents?" asked Sub-Zero curiously while Tywin smirked.

"You catch on quickly. Though something tells me my intentions were noticeably due to my reputation, which clearly precedes me," replied Tywin since everyone knew that any conversation he had with a person involved getting them under his boot or by his side to amass further strength foe his House.

"You have the eyes of an ambitious man," said Sub-Zero with Tywin smirking with a small bow of admittance to the statement and giving the Lin Kuei credit where credit was due.

"Indeed. Which is why I see a chance for my House to grow even stronger with your help. Win the archery tournament and come see me afterwards. I want you to hear my proposal. With any luck, it will catch your interest," said Tywin before walking away from the two men.

"Be mindful of Tywin Lannister. Any deal he offers is designed to benefit him and him only no matter your decision," said Ser Barristan since he had been in the Kingsguard and around the Lord of Casterly Rock to know how the man acted around others.

Even now, Ser Barristan had seen the ambitious green eyes of Tywin Lannister gazing at Prince Rheagar with plans and schemes for the young dragon. Ser Barristan swore he would protect the young Prince and ensure not even the lion could sink his claws into the future of the Seven Kingdoms.

"I know. He is someone who seeks to leave behind a legacy his children will carry on long after he is dead and they have children of their own. But what makes him dangerous is the insight to not overreach. He knows when to stop and when to continue. There are few who know how to do that," said Sub-Zero while walking with Ser Barristan back to his quarters.

The archery tournament started tomorrow.

(Archery Tournament-The Next Day)

The crowd was in a roar. No. A frenzy. No. A roar and a frenzy all in one. Why? Because the King's Champion, who just so happened to be a foreigner from another had actually won the archery competition. The competition consisted of over 25 competitors and all of them with experience under their belt. In fact, there would have been more, but the melee tournament had effectively thinned the rank of those competing.

Regardless, the betting for the foreigner to win had increased significantly because of it. The High Lords and Wardens had been interested in Sub-Zero's performance in archery with some placing bets on his victory. Olenna knew skill when she saw one and ordered her son to bet on the Lin Kuei to win despite her slightly oafish son's minor protest. A quick glare with the words "do as I say!" behind it and Mace was quick to wager a nice significant sum. Even Rickard Stark, who normally didn't bet anything at all, much less come to most of these events, bet on Sub-Zero to win. He had seen the man's skills with a bow and arrow already in the North and when traveling from there to King's Landing.

The two had spoken a lot during that time and Rickard knew Sub-Zero was a man of many deadly skills. A warrior and assassin all in one. Skilled in weapons combat of all ranges, including hand to hand combat, and only recently learned the man can an ability to make ice form in his hands.

Lord Stark would be foolish and miss an opportunity here if he didn't place a wager on Sub-Zero to win the archery competition.

In fact, the only noticeable person who bet against Sub-Zero was Grand Maester Pycelle himself, who seemed to think the young man would lose. He had bet against the Lin Kuei warrior and convinced some of the other minor Lords to do the same, using his "years of experience" as a Grand Maester to convince them that the foreigner couldn't possibly best the archers born of Westerosi blood. How those born within the Seven Kingdoms had the finest archers and were superior to anyone or anything overseas.

In any case, the overall wager was roughly in Sub-Zero's favor.

And Sub-Zero did not disappoint.

It started off simply enough. Firing arrows, hitting the targets, thinning the ranks of the competition before hitting more difficult targets in order to advance. As the ranks thinned with losing five at a time per match up, Sub-Zero was soon shown to be the favorite to win the competition. Hitting target after target dead center to shock and awe of the crowd seeing the chosen King's Champion advancing himself through the tournament.

Sub-Zero even showed more of his skill by moving and shooting his target dead center when it came down to the final match. His opponent had hit the target right at the center, but the arrow was so deep, it could not be pulled out. The man in question was from Dorn and looked rather smug about besting the King's Champion since the arrow was too deep to pull out and the rule stated both men had to hit the same target. Even if Sub-Zero hit the bulls eye, the Dornish archer figured it wouldn't be deep enough to win.

Only for Sub-Zero to surprise everyone by moving by kneeling at a very low, almost painfully low, angle, and calculating the shot of his arrow's trajectory. With one calm breath, he fired his arrow, hitting dead center just like his opponent did. As a result, the arrow was not only imbedded deeper then his opponent's, but the opponent's arrow was destroyed in the process after being pierced from underneath. It had caused an uproar with the people, cheering at such a display of skill to do that.

And all the while, the King smiled his maddening smile, yet cheering all the same with the crowd for the King's Champion.

"Ser Barristan, invite my Champion to dine with me and my Queen for dinner. I wish to have a discussion with him," said King Aerys II with Ser Barristan nodding.

"What should I tell him about the discussion your Grace?" asked Ser Barristan with the King looking over to the side as if hearing another voice talking to him.

"Tell him, it is about the future. His future in the Seven Kingdoms," ordered King Aerys II with Ser Barristan nodding.

"As you command your Grace," said Ser Barristan while ignoring how Varys was easily listening and was yet enjoying the celebration at the same time.

(The King's Tent-Sometime Later)

Sub-Zero walked into the tent slowly, calmly, yet politely before giving the King and Queen the respectful bow at the long table in front of him. He walked like a man who was expected, yet did not walk into the tent as if it was his tent, or that everyone in it should acknowledge his very presence just from entering. A servant had pulled a chair out and Sub-Zero gave the servant a nod before sitting down at the opposite end of the table while the King watched his every move. As for the Queen, she was smiling her ever polite smile, but it was clear she did not want to be here, or anywhere near the King for that matter.

Behind the two members of the royal family were several members of the Kingsguard, including Ser Barristan, Varys the Spider, and the Hand of the King himself. All three men were not here to eat, but to observe, guard, and advise the King when required to ensure proper decisions were made at any event the King attended.

Even simple dinners that were not so simple when it came to the King. Especially when the King was slowly losing his mind to madness.

"I am honored by your invitation your Grace. Thank you for having me here to dine at your table," said Sub-Zero politely.

"Thanks are not necessary. We are but two dragons meeting at a dinner table," said King Aerys II while servants came into the tent to bring them food.

"I am still honored," said Sub-Zero while a servant put down a plate of food.

"You dress nicely out of your unique clothes and armor. If it wasn't for the way you walk, talk, or that Ser Barristan had told me of your impending entrance, I wouldn't have been able to recognize you," said King Aerys II with a small laugh before he began eating.

"Thank you your Grace. Your tailors were generous in providing me clothing worthy of being able to dine with a King," said Sub-Zero, as he was wearing a form fitting tunic and pants made forged from the finest cloth to come out of Highgarden while the boots were made from the finest tanner in the West.

Leave it to the King of the Seven Kingdoms to ensure his Champion had the very best in clothing to where for a dinner meeting.

"One of the reasons I asked for you to come here my fellow dragon, was to discuss the future. Namely your future. Living here within my Kingdom. Or one of the Seven I rule over," said King Aerys II before drinking his wine.

"I am glad you wish to discuss such a thing with me your Grace. I have been giving my future here in your Kingdom a great deal of thought as well," said Sub-Zero with the King smiling with his yellow mangled teeth showing.

"I knew you would. We are dragons after all! We think alike!" exclaimed King Aerys II with a laugh that followed.

"In regards to my future, I was thinking of how I could contribute my life to serving the Seven Kingdoms with my skills," said Sub-Zero with King Aerys II nodding since he was thinking the same thing.

"Yes. Your skills in combat and archery are most impressive. There are a few in all of the Seven Kingdoms who could fight and possibly win against you in a fight. Such skills and abilities will be a thing of legend, written into song, and sung by the bards on the streets," said King Aerys II with a laugh that made his Queen/wife/sister cringe slightly.

"In regards to my skill, I wish to rebuild my clan. Or rather my House if you will. Where I am from it was not built entirely on blood. We took in orphans, the homeless, and any other we saw with potential. I wish to restore my clan to its former glory here in the Seven Kingdoms. With your permission of course," said Sub-Zero with King Aerys II looking at him in thought and apparently listening to an invisible voice next to him.

"And what would your clan do once restored?" asked King Aerys II curiously.

"We would be a pillar that assists in holding the Seven Kingdoms together. To find and seek enemies that would wish to destroy and cause chaos within your domain. To protect the very people who live under your rule and from those who would wish them harm in their quest to destroy the stability of the Seven Kingdoms," said Sub-Zero while seeing Varys smile slightly and Tywin was interested in such an ambitious undertaking since it would take many years for such a thing to happen.

"I have many enemies within the Seven Kingdoms. Some within the High Lords possibly. Or the very Houses who have sworn fealty to them. They wouldn't dare fight against their Liege Lord alone, but if the smaller Houses were to unit and rally a strong enough army, it would be disastrous. And what you are proposing will take years, many years in fact, to complete your plans," said King Aerys II with Sub-Zero nodding since he knew it would take time.

"Which is why I need the support of the High Lords and Wardens from each of the Seven Kingdoms to provide additional support to add to your own," replied Sub-Zero with the men in the room looking a tad surprised.

"And in what are you offering these High Lords and the Wardens of the North, South, East, and West that would make them keep the lower Houses in line?" asked King Aerys II curiously.

"Simple. I intend to become a teacher to their Heirs. Including yours," said Sub-Zero with King Aerys II looking at him for a second before he laughed like he was told a joke.

"Not to throw away such a generous idea Master Liang, but what exactly could you teach my Heir or the Heirs to the other Great Houses of Westeros?" asked Tywin curiously, as he found the idea intriguing, but dared not say as much in front of the King.

"As you know, I am a foreigner. I am not from Westeros. But it is because I am different, I can show them things they would never experience in their lifetime. I can provide them with a firm education on the ways of war, strategy, and how to fight," said Sub-Zero with the King's laughter ending and drinking some wine.

"Your proposal is indeed interesting my fellow dragon. But many of these Heirs either know how to fight or are already being taught how to fight. While I am sure your way of fighting and teaching would be interesting, I doubt many would allow a foreigner to teach their Heirs. They would most likely feel you are going to poison the minds of their Heirs, turn them from the faith of the Seven, or overall family traditions," said King Aerys II before he laughed again like it was funny to see the Heirs to the High Lords and Wardens betray their families.

"I would do nothing of the sort. Which is why I propose your son and Heir, Rheagar, join my class with the other Heirs to show your support. If the King of the Seven Kingdoms entrusts his own son and Heir to learning from someone like myself, it would make them send their Heirs as well," said Sub-Zero while King Aerys II nodding and thinking it over in his head.

"I would be willing to have my son join such a class and learn under Master Liang your Grace. If both the King and the Hand send both their Heirs to learn under him, it would show the crown believes there is something for them to learn. You did choose wisely in making him your Champion during the melee and archery competition. They will not be able to question your actions after that or my own support," added Tywin while seeing this as a chance to give Jamie some additional education and maybe a means to get the boy from constantly hiding behind his Father.

"Many would be curious to see what Master Liang would be able to teach them and if it would benefit their House's in the future. At the very least, it will hold off any dissent throughout the Seven Kingdoms your Grace. If Master Liang's teachings were in fact productive, it would make many see that your decisions regarding him to be the right ones. The whole of the Seven Kingdoms would benefit from his actions and all would know it was through your decision to support it," said Varys while he saw the King now looking more interested in the idea.

"You say you wish to help train my son? Into being a true dragon? A proper dragon?!" asked Aerys II with Sub-Zero nodding.

"I can even teach him a fighting style said to imitate a dragon. Where I am from, we have various fighting styles based off of animals. One such fighting style I myself learned was the Dragon fighting style," said Sub-Zero while the King was now fully focused on him.

"A fighting style of a dragon you say?! It's settled! You will teach my son and the other Heirs of the Seven Kingdoms what you know. BUT, you must teach my son this Dragon fighting style! No objections!" exclaimed Aerys II with a madness filled look in his eyes.

"I accept the condition your Grace. I will need a place, materials, and access to resources capable of helping in my means to teach them," said Sub-Zero while glancing at Varys and Tywin knowing those two could be crucial to such things.

The King provided his authoritative blessing. Tywin would provide the influence. Varys supplied materials, servants, and resources.

"All will be provided and anything required will be obtained for your use my fellow dragon. I hope to see your clan rise to become something great. Varys! You will assist him in gathering potential recruits to his clan. Under his leadership, we will have a true friend of the Crown!" stated Aerys II with Varys nodding, but the Spider knew that the Lin Kuei would not be loyal to the Crown.

Not exclusively.

Varys knew what Sub-Zero intended for the revival of his clan. It was clear to him as nose on his face. Sub-Zero would build his clan to be a third entity in the world. One that was truly loyal to the Seven Kingdoms, but none of their Princes, Wardens, Liege Lords, or even the Kings that sat on the Iron Throne. A clan that would destroy any and all those who would put the Seven Kingdoms in true danger. The minor battles and wars that could be contained wouldn't matter to Sub-Zero's clan or their purpose. It would only be when these wars became a danger to the entirety of the Seven Kingdoms or an invasion from Essos, if ever happened, would the clan intervene, and show their true might.

That was something Varys could get behind and allying with Sub-Zero would be the best way to do it since this would help protect the smallfolk from harm. Many High Lords had waged war with each other in the past throughout the Seven Kingdoms. Their very armies marching, killing, pillaging, raping, and murdering any who stood in their path. Not once did these men care for the smallfolk because they felt the Gods would forgive them or the smallfolk themselves were beneath them.

"Thank you for this your Grace. I promise, you will not regret this decision," said Sub-Zero with King Aerys II looking at him intently through his madness filled gaze.

"For your own sake my fellow dragon, I should hope not," replied King Aerys II with the hidden threat staring Sub-Zero right in the face.

(A Few Miles from King's Landing-Seven Months Later)

"I don't get it Ned. Why do we have to be here for this shit? I would rather be back in the Vale. At least there it doesn't smell like horse shit," said Robert Baratheon in a grumbling angry tone.

"You heard Lord Arryn. We have to attend. My Father and your Father agreed. Even my brother Brandon will be attending to see if he can learn something from this man," said Eddard or as Robert called him "Ned" Stark while they rode their horses side by side to the designated area with their House bannermen escorting them to the designated location provided.

"Piss on that Ned! I want to hit something and I can easily do that in the Vale or in the Stormlands without having to smell shit everywhere," said Robert with a sigh and gave a glance back at his younger brother Stannis Baratheon.

Their Father wanted them to learn under this foreigner, who from what they had heard was made the King's Champion during the tournament during the Prince's last nameday. Robert and Ned had been fostered over to Jon Arryn at the Vale for four months now when a raven arrived for Jon Arryn telling him it was time and their new instructor would be teaching them.

Stannis had also been sent because their Father thought it would give Robert a chance to bond more with his brother so they wouldn't be too far apart during this time.

Further behind them was Jamie Lannister along with his Father, Tywin Lannister, who were having a conversation of their own.

"Is this really necessary Father? Learning from a foreigner? And all because he won two out of three parts in a tournament and was made the King's Champion for it. Isn't that a little...much?" said Jamie while Tywin looked at his son with a cold glare.

"The fact you ask me such a question after over half a year since the tournament further proves you need to learn from him Jamie. The man was the head of his own house before an internal strife brought it to ruin with him being the only survivor," said Tywin since he and Sub-Zero had several conversations within the Tower of the Hand about the Lin Kuei clan.

"Doesn't that further prove this foreigner isn't qualified to teach us anything?" remarked Jamie with Tywin's scowl increasing.

"The fault in the clan he served before it failed was not his own. They grew strong and prospered under him. Outside forces who they pledged to serve wanted them removed out of madness and used a few ambitious fools within to tear it apart. No one, not even our own House is immune from such things. Or do I need to remind you what happened with your Grandfather and the two rebelling Houses, which I had to put down to ensure no one did it again?" Tywin countered with Jamie looking down in embarrassment and shame.

"I just don't see what this man can teach me that you can't Father," said Jamie with Tywin looking toward the compound which had been put together at the order of the King.

"You will see soon enough," said Tywin with an air of finality to it.

While this was happening, Ser Barristan along with a small group of the Kingsguard were also on horseback with young Prince Rheagar. The Prince had a slightly sullen look on his face since he was as unsure about learning from the Lin Kuei Grandmaster. His Father would go on a madness filled rant to him about how another dragon would be teaching his son, and how to turn him into a "true dragon". But Rheagar didn't want to become a "true dragon" like his Father believed he could become under the Grandmaster. He just wanted to rule justly, have subjects who were happy, and one day be remembered as a great King.

"Do not worry my Prince. Master Liang has assured me that while he will be strict in his teaching methods, he will never be cruel. If anything, his way of teaching maybe exactly what you need to become a great King one day," said Ser Barristan with Rheagar looking uncertainly at him.

"Do you believe that Ser Barristan?" asked Rheagar while Ser Barristan smiled at the Prince he was sworn to serve and protect.

"With all my heart my Prince. Master Liang will teach you and the others everything and anything there is to know on how to become a better person in life. The better you are as a person, the better you will be as a King when ruling on the Iron Throne one day," said Ser Barristan with Rheagar smiling at the loyal Kingsguard.

"Thank you for your words Ser Barristan. Know when I become King, your loyalty to my House and to me will be rewarded," said Rheagar with Ser Barristan bowing humbly.

"Serving you is reward enough my Prince. I merely wish for you to become the King I already know you can be," said Ser Barristan while they rode toward the compound.

"It seems a bit...weird in its construction," commented Brandon Stark while gazing at the structure Sub-Zero had asked to be constructed as his place to train his students.

"From what I know, it is quite similar in design to the one back where Master Liang is from and ran his clan. Now remember, when you address him Brandon, it must be either be as sensei, teacher, or Grandmaster. Understand?" said Rickard with Brandon nodding.

"I just hope we can learn something while here," commented Edmure Tully while he had dismounted his horse while his Uncle Blackfish dismounted behind him.

"Like showing respect and intelligence when addressing your instructor when learning from the man. Do not act like an idiot around him nephew," commented Blackfish Tully while Edmure scowled at him.

Only for Sub-Zero to be standing there with his arms behind his back, in full Lin Kuei armor, and mask with his intense stare gazing at them.

"Welcome. All of you. Heirs and Lords who could attend. During your time here at this training compound, you will learn under me and what I have to teach that will benefit your futures. Not only the future that will be your life, but the future of your Houses. While here, you will be learning not only how to fight, but learn how to rule over the House from which you will inherit from your Fathers. Before we begin, know that despite your titles, your Father's titles, and the influence they may have over the Seven Kingdoms, they count for nothing here. I do not play favorites. I do not care if you are the son of the King or a bastard son of a High Lord seeking to have you prove yourself. In my eyes, you are equal in terms of status, and no one here can claim to be better than the other. I won't allow it!" stated Sub-Zero while he gave each Lord and Heir a hard look.

"Piss on that! Are you telling me that being an Heir to the Stormlands counts to shit with you?!" questioned Robert while Ned grimaced at his sworn brother's brash words.

"Yes. Even though the Prince himself will be here, learning like the rest of you, there will be no special treatment. Everything he will learn, you will learn. Nothing more. Nothing less," answered Sub-Zero while walking toward them and glancing at his chosen students for this form of teaching.

"How long will be learning from you Grandmaster?" said Ned since he had overheard his Father talking about being polite to this man.

"Until I deem fit. Your parents will be given monthly reports on your progress and my own recommendations based on what I see during your time here. Any and all reports will be truthful. No lies. No deceit. I will not embellish or lie to them. If I say you are lacking in a skill, I say because it is true. If I say you are doing well, it is because my words are true," said Sub-Zero while glaring at each Heir to make them understand he would not lie in any shape or form just to appease their Fathers.

"What will we be learning exactly?" asked Edmure Tully curiously.

"You will find out tomorrow. For now, I will show you all to your rooms. Each of you will be assigned a one person room. While here, it can be altered to your own unique specifications, but within reason. However, I will make something very clear to each and everyone here. This is a place to learn, to grow, and become something better. It is not a place where you can relax and do nothing. You are here to learn what I have to teach. If any of you are found slacking off, I will remove you from this compound, and I will be informing your Father or foster Father of my disappointment so they can punish you in their own way," said Sub-Zero firmly while motioning for all of them to follow him into the compound.

They walked through the corridor with different rooms for different purposes. Some were locked since they were restricted to only Sub-Zero with the Grandmaster holding the only key. After walking to the second floor of the building, the Lin Kuei Grandmaster showed them where their quarters were located with each one living next to the other. Each room was the exact same size as the other to further prove that not one of his new students was unequal to the others here.

"Your schedule starts tomorrow morning when the Sun rises. I expect you up when it does. I will not allow anyone of you to sleep in. Every moment you waste is a moment you waste my time. Of your Father's time in sending you here. And the time of the Heirs here who wish to learn. If you cannot handle the simple task of waking up at the time the Sun rises, speak up now so I can expect you to leave immediately," said Sub-Zero while many in the room were taken back by this.

"Aren't you being a tad unreasonable?" asked Edmure with Sub-Zero's eyes looking at him with an intensity that made the young Tully shrink back slightly.

"Unreasonable? Hardly. When I was training in my clan before leading, it was the strict policy of all members to awaken either before or when the Sun rose into the sky. If you failed to do so, you were dragged out of bed, tied to a post, and whipped violently until the Sun rose to the middle of the day. The only reprieve from the whip was when there was a rotation on the clan member carrying out the punishment," said Sub-Zero firmly while Edmure gulped fearfully and even Jamie looked a tad nervous.

"You would do that to us if we failed to rise with the Sun? asked Ned while worried for Robert since the man did not rise with the Sun and was quite mouthy at times.

"Fortunately, for all of you, the answer is no. But the punishment you would endure is not something to risk all the same," answered Sub-Zero with the Heirs and their family with them letting out a small sigh of relief.

Even Tywin Lannister was grateful since the idea of his son being whipped ruthlessly for simply not rising with the Sun left a bad image in his mind.

"How can you expect us to rise with the Sun when none of us ever have before today?" asked Robert while Ned was wondering about that too.

"Learn. Since none of you have ever had to make the attempt, I am giving you one week to adjust to that change. One week. If you can't do that, you are gone. No exceptions. If you can't handle this one simple task, you can't handle what follows," said Sub-Zero, as he walked away from them.

"And what follows exactly?" asked Jamie before Sub-Zero stopped and looked back at him.

"Pain...and the strength that goes with it," said Sub-Zero before he went to handle other matters.

"Come on my Prince. Let's get you settled into your room," said Ser Barristan who had taken the role of foster Father and decided to help the Prince get settled in.

"This better be worth it Ned," commented Robert before entering his room and Stannis entering the one on the left next to it without saying a word with a serious expression on his face.

Ned sighed and entered his room to the right of Robert's to assess his own living space.

"Still think this foreigner knows what he's doing?" asked Jamie with Tywin glaring at his son.

"More then ever. Do as Master Liang says and stay out of trouble. I will be waiting for the monthly progress report. I expect results. I do not want to come back here in a week and find out that simply rising with the Sun was too much for you," said Tywin with his son scowling at him.

"As if I would let something so simple stop me," remarked Jamie while Tywin wasn't as convinced.

"Not everything is as easy as it looks. That is the reason he is giving you a week to learn how," said Tywin before he decided to leave so his son could get settled.

The boy was going to have a hard time ahead of him. Just like the others.

(Lin Kuei Compound-The Next Day)

Sub-Zero had to give credit where credit was due to his young charges. Out of all of the student before him, only Jamie and Robert were unable to rise with the Sun. Ned and Stannis had tried to help Robert, but the blusterous boy was impossible to control, much less listen to reason. Both Ned and Stannis were shown to be the more responsible of the students under his guidance. They had understood right away the concept of what it meant to rise with the Sun since it allowed more to be done during the day. Ned's older brother Brandon did as well and had actually awoken shortly after the Sun had risen.

Prince Rheagar understood since a King must rise with the day no matter what and spent the entire week trying to complete this task. Nearby, Ser Barristan was awake in his own uniform, and was out of the quarters Sub-Zero provided for him. The man was truly loyal to Rheagar and wished to fulfill his duties as a member of the Kingsguard to ensure that no one attempted to assassinate the Prince. While unlikely given how he would never allow it and the defenses in place would alert him of any intruders, the Lin Kuei warrior allowed the man to stay on the grounds that there would be no interference. Ser Barristan agreed since the King himself wouldn't allow anyone to interfere with his son learning from another dragon.

Even Edmure Tully managed to get his form out of bed, but it was clear the boy was extremely tired from getting out of bed so early in the morning.

The only ones who Sub-Zero saw issues with was Robert and Jamie. One being stubborn to the point where you give up on reasoning with him on something. The other one being arrogant in the belief that his Father would not allow anything bad happen to him.

Which is why Sub-Zero made sure to wait until his students who were awake were front and center outside their rooms dressed in their bed clothes. Soon after waiting a full ten minutes, the Lin Kuei Grandmaster silently went to Jamie Lannister's room with a bucket of ice cold water and splashed it on the boy's body.

And causing the Lannister boy to make a very unmanly shriek before Jamie was dragged out of his room, in soaking wet sleep clothes by Sub-Zero for everyone to see.

Surprisingly, the sounds made by Jamie did not wake up Robert Baratheon from his own slumber. Which was fine with Sub-Zero since he had another bucket of ice cold water on hand and did not hesitate to dump it on an unsuspecting Robert.

Who unlike Jamie, yelled out in frustration, cursing up a storm, and threatening to put the head of whoever did that to him on a pike. Only to be hit in the back of his head and was dragged out of the room by Sub-Zero to stand there with everyone else.

Naturally, Robert and Jamie glared at the others around them to ensure they didn't laugh at their humiliating experience. Fortunately, no one did, but not because of the glare. It was more likely they knew this could happen to them and didn't want to risk such a thing happening to their person.

Adding in Sub-Zero's own glare for everyone to not laugh also helped.

"For those of you who are attempting to do what I asked, you are to be commended. I know it is not easy for you now. But in time, you will learn to control your mind, and your body to rise at a designated time. In the future, when each of you are full grown adults, this will seem like a minor task that any child can do. For those of you who have failed to do what I ask, I strongly recommend that you try harder before the end of the week. For now, get dressed before meeting me in the Main Hall to eat breakfast. If you are not there fully dressed and ready for the day within 15 minutes, you will not eat until much later on, and only under my authority. Do you understand?" said Sub-Zero with his charges nodding though Robert and Jamie were glaring at him before they went to their rooms.

(Main Hall-15 Minutes Later)

"Fucking cunt of a teacher! Soaking me like that. For a moment, I thought I was thrown into the fucking Narrow Sea!" complained Robert to Ned when they sat down to eat.

"You were warned Robert. You're lucky he is not going by what his own teachers did to those who disobeyed their instructors?" questioned Ned with concern for Robert while the Baratheon grumbled about how "his sworn brother was siding with heartless cunts".

"Young Stark is right brother," said Stannis while finding himself slightly eager to learn under the Grandmaster.

"Piss off Stannis! You're lucky we have the same blood or I would punch your teeth out!" exclaimed Robert angrily at his younger brother.

"Robert," said Ned with a sigh escaping him.

"I just hope the food served here is good," commented Jamie since he wondered how they would eat.

"I am more curious about the training. I hope it is as enlightening as our Fathers claim," said Rheagar while Brandon, Ned, and Stannis nodded in agreement.

"It better be or I'll spear him to a wall," threatened Robert angrily.

"You are far too young and inexperienced to succeed in carrying out your threat young Baratheon," commented Sub-Zero who walked into the Main Hall and looked to see how everyone was present.

Good. No one would have to starve for half the day.

"Robert. Don't do something stupid," whispered Ned while Robert looked ready to get out of his seat to fight the Grandmaster.

"Since all of you are here, we can begin our meal for the today. Cooks and servants were graciously provided from the Red Keep to come here. You will treat them with respect while they are here. No insults. No humiliating commands. No orders to do any and all tasks I assign to you. Any form of disrespect toward them while they are here will be met with severe...consequences," said Sub-Zero while glaring at Jamie and Robert since they were the ones who most likely do that sort of thing.

"What happens following breakfast?" asked Edmure curiously.

"Your training starts. And it does not end until the Sun sets or I say otherwise," said Sub-Zero before he snaps his fingers and the servants came out with the food and drink.

Only for Robert to nearly choke on his drink.

"What the fuck is this? This isn't wine!" exclaimed Robert angrily while Sub-Zero was not intimidated by the boy's sudden outburst.

"Nor will you drink it while here. Not only are you too young to drink wine, it dulls the senses if you have too much. While living here, you will drink water, juice, tea, and milk. This very principle applies to eating the food prepared in this compound. Only healthy foods will be provided in order to help your body grow. Anything you eat here will be of the healthy variety. This will help ensure your overall health is extended and your body becomes strong in the years to come during the crucial years of development," said Sub-Zero while Robert grumbled at how unfair it was to not drink wine.

"Just endure it Robert. You can drink wine after becoming a full grown adult," said Ned while he saw Robert glare at him despite being right about the issue.

"When you are finished eating, return to your assigned rooms. Once there, you will find on your bed several rolls of parchment, a writing quill, and a bottle of ink for writing. Once obtained, meet me in the room I have marked on the door with the number forty five. I expect see all of you there soon. You have an entire hour to eat and twenty minutes to come to the room where we will start your lessons. Do not be late," said Sub-Zero before he left the room.

Not wanting to be punished or disciplined by Sub-Zero, the group of young future Lords quickly ate their meals before heading to their rooms. Sure enough, they found the items mentioned were there on the beds before picking them up. Deciding to find the room their teacher had told them was numbered forty five, the group eventually looked and located it.

Ned suggested they knock first, but Robert being Robert said "piss on that Ned!", and proceeded to enter the room like he owned it. Only to freeze when he met the cold gaze of Sub-Zero, which immediately reminded Robert that he was not the one in charge of this place.

"I see you all made it. Good. Each of you has an assigned seat. Sit down," said Sub-Zero while waiting for his students to sit in their assigned seats.

"With all due respect sensei, we were under the impression you would be teaching us how to fight," said Brandon Stark with a hint of curiosity.

"And I will. But first, you must learn how to think before you learn how to fight," said Sub-Zero while everyone in front of him looked confused.

"Think before fighting?" asked Jamie in confusion.

"Yes. Anyone can pick up a sword, spear, knife, or any other item to use as a weapon in combat against someone. But a true leader and warrior thinks before he acts. In this room, I will be teaching you how to use your mind before you learn how to use a weapon," said Sub-Zero while Rheagar, Ned, Brandon, and Stannis were more focused.

Edmure was confused. Jamie was uncertain. And Robert was looking angry.

"What?! I don't need to know how to think when it comes to fighting. All I have to do is thrust my sword into some shit in front of me and watch his guts come out," said Robert with Sub-Zero sighing in minor frustration at the boy's lack of understanding.

"If you wish to be Lord of the Stormlands one day young Robert, it is required that you understand how things work. Without a strong mind to go with a strong body, your life will not be balanced. An unbalanced life will result in misery and suffering for you and those you care about. Do you think your Father or Jamie Lannister's Father focus on just fighting? That Brandon and Eddard Stark's Father relied on swords, shields, and spears alone? What about Holster Tully? Do you think the Riverlands are run by a mindless fool who prefers to punch and fight over thinking how to run his territory as a Liege Lord?" said Sub-Zero with Robert looking like he was struggling to keep his anger in check.

"So you are instructing us on how to run our various Kingdoms and lands we will inherit one day from our Fathers," surmised Stannis with Sub-Zero nodding.

"If that is true, why are Stannis and the younger Stark here? Neither can lay claim unless their older brothers die and have no children of their own," said Jamie while not seeing the reason behind the younger family members joining them here.

"Because there may come a day when Robert Baratheon or Brandon Stark die without any Heirs to their name. Granted, such a situation seems impossible now, or you do not believe will happen anytime soon. But it does not mean it cannot happen. If there is a war with Robert and Brandon riding off to join, who runs the Stormlands or the North?" said Sub-Zero with a sense of understanding appearing in their eyes.

"Stannis Baratheon and Eddard Stark," replied Edmure with Sub-Zero nodding.

"Correct. Say a war came with Brandon and Robert riding off to fight in it. This leaves both Stannis and Eddard to rule over their territories in place of their older brothers. If neither of them are equipped to run the Stormlands or the North, both territories will fall to ruin. By teaching the Heirs and their siblings what they need on how to rule, I help ensure the future of these territories, and your House are secured," said Sub-Zero with each student now looking at him in understanding.

Even Robert understood despite his pissed off attitude toward the Grandmaster.

"Now, I have spoke or written to each of your Fathers on the subjects you have already been taught by your previous instructors. We will continue where they left off and in some cases, repeat what they taught for those here who have not learned it yet," said Sub-Zero while intending to put his own way of teaching them what it took to rule.

Sub-Zero intended to alter the landscape on this supposed Game of Thrones and become an influential piece in it.

But first, he had some students to train. With any luck some more should come along if the time permits.

And if he was really lucky, his entire clan would rise again.

(A/N: YAY! Another update. Hope you liked. Remember, Sub-Zero is trying to gain some good will with some of the major Houses in the Seven Kingdoms, but he can't get all of them. Not yet. Plus, this is during the time before Robert's Rebellion when he was still a young kid becoming a young man. This will give Sub-Zero time to rebuild the Lin Kuei again for when this story starts when Season 1 of the show starts. With him now in the Game, not everything will be what it was in the show. Until next time...PEACE!)