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Chapter 17
Doran Martell stared at the letter on his hand, taking his time to digest the words written there for him. Truthfully, much has been happening in the last few years. Many schemes and secret alliances he built throughout the years were slowly becoming useless as time went by. And all of that because of a particular action, of a certain king, to a certain princess. Dora couldn't help but wonder what possessed Robert to pronounce his daughter heir of the throne.
"Maybe he finally listened to reason," Doran muttered as he sat on Dorne's water gardens. Watching his children and the many other children of his family playing around, unaware of the war brewing in Westeros.
Still, Doran took his time to think carefully about his next move. An opportunity had arrived for his family to take, and something told him that the current events would become more than just a sibling dispute. A war that would soon spread across Westeros would put the Dornish people and the Martell in a position they must choose carefully. A decision Doran needed to make. But before that, he must first hear what his daughter had to say.
"Arianne, you've spoken with the princess, lived and eaten with her... what can you tell me about her?"
Doran stared at his daughter, who rested on her chair and leaned back, wearing his usual Dornish clothes. To show the heat and dry climate of the desert. Still, her face showed a strange determination and even worry.
"Oh, has our little princess fallen for the Stag princess?"
Arianne sneered at the mocking tone of one of Oberyn's bastard daughters. Nymeria was a gorgeous young woman who was not ashamed of her body. Not that she should. Nymeria had nothing to fear, especially when it came down to using her allure to get what she wanted. Still, she wasn't the kind type of girl. She could be vicious with her tongue, and it showed by how she spoke to Arianne.
"Angry? Are you angry that I insulted you, lady love?" Nymeria mocked as Arianne simply scoffed at her, almost pulling a knife.
"Shut up, whore," Arianne hissed angrily. "Go find yourself a dick to suck in."
Nymeria almost stood up before Ellaria spoke. "Girls, easy now. It's not time for a fight."
Nymeria chuckled as she leaned back on the couch, winking at Arianne, who simply gave her an obscene gesture. Ellaria sighed as the other Sand Snakes on the other side of the room giggled. Truly making Arianne's anger rise up, but it was a daily occurrence. Nothing out of the ordinary for all the Snakes and Arianne to get on each other nerves. Funnily enough, a fistfight could happen at any moment between Nymeria and Arianne. Swearing and spitting, ripping each other gowns. It was usual for those two to quarrel. Yet, it never came to the point of them trying to kill each other or that Oberyn and Doran had to step in. No one would understand it, but Arianne and Nymeria get along just fine. In fact, all the Sand Snakes got along incredibly. They were all family, after all. Arianne cares a great deal for Nymeria and would defend Nymeria from anyone. And the same goes for Nymeria, who has killed men who dared to speak ill of Arianne.
It was just that they clashed a lot. All the Sand Snakes fight among each other for whatever reason, but when it comes down to protecting the family. They were all a unit, and no one would tear them apart.
That's why, Oberyn, sitting there with his lover on his lap, chuckled.
"Do let them get at it, my love," Oberyn whispered as he held Ellaria on his lap. "A good fight can solve a lot of things."
"Of course, you'll say that lover," Ellaria rolled her eyes as Oberyn chuckled slightly.
"We don't have time for such entertainment," Doran stated before returning to his daughter, who calmed down. "Please, tell us everything you can about her."
Arianne nodded as she stared at her father. "She's kind. A genuinely kind person to everyone. I've seen her interact with people... it's genuine. She does remember every face, every name. Their families, and their children. She ensures all the maids working under her are fairly treated and well paid. Honestly, father. Galadriel Baratheon is just a good person. Perhaps, the most honest and gentle person I have ever met."
"You sound in love," Nymeria teased, waiting for the usual snarky remark, but nothing came. In fact, Arianne simply sighed deeply while playing with her fingers.
"Holy shit," Obara whispered, looking at Arianne's reaction.
"I didn't expect that," Tyene added, as surprised as her half-sister.
Nymeria stared at those eyes and was stunned by Arianne's reaction. "You fell for her?" Nymeria asked, not with her usual tone of voice but with a genuine one.
"I didn't fall for her," Arianne muttered, a bit embarrassed. "I just think she's beautiful and has a good heart, that's all."
Ellaria smiled at Arianne's reaction, as did Oberyn, who seemed to speak only with their gestures.
"So, you think she'll be a good queen?" Doran asked, although a part of him already knew the answer.
"Absolutely. The things the princess had done speak for themselves, father. You know this better than I do... and Joffrey and Cersei are everything we despise."
Doran nodded, content with that answer. Still, while he had the reply he wanted. It didn't deter Doran from the entire situation and what was a stake for him and his family. Oberyn saw those eyes on his brother's face. He recognized them well enough to know he has scheming something. But still, Oberyn needed to see that they still were looking for their revenge, for their sister and children's justice.
"Brother, what are we going to do?" Oberyn asked as Doran hummed.
"The Lion is fighting against the Wolf and the Trout. We have the Stag brothers slowly moving at each other and the Flower taking sides. But what about us... the Spear and the Sun?" Doran's words brought everyone's attention. They all stared at the head of the house, thinking about what he would do now.
"We swore to take revenge, to bring justice to our side," Doran stared at Arianne. "Do you think the princess would help us in this endeavour?"
Now, Arianne needed clarification on it. She wanted justice as much as everyone else. However, would the princess betray her kin for them? That was the question Arianne didn't know the answer to.
"I don't know... it depends on what you are asking..."
"What are we asking? I think it is pretty obvious about what we are asking," Oberyn now spoke, with a quite icy tone. "If the princess wishes our support... she must give us the justice they'd denied us for a long time."
Arianne gulped slowly. "She has no love for the Mountain. If you talk to her, she may help us. But to ask for her to betray her grandfather or mother... that I can't say."
"That's one way to say she'll help us not," Nymeria muttered on the back. "What good she'll be to us then?"
"She will be the greatest queen in all Westeros' history, and if we help her, maybe the Martell will become something more!"
"Oh, truly, does that mean you get to shag her?"
Arianne and Nymeria were about to start another round of yelling, and even it would lead to a fight between them. However, Doran stopped it all as he raised his hand. "Enough, both of you. Whether we like it or not. We must take a stance. Our revenge, our goal, may come from the most unexpected places. But I know this... if we want to achieve anything in the future. We, the Martell, must stand behind someone."
"Brother," Oberyn stood up, watching his brother's eyes.
"Oberyn, do you trust me..."
"I do, you know this... but what about Elia and her children? Are their people who kill them part of your master plan?" Oberyn whispered, his face showing a deep and dangerous scowl that made everyone shiver in fear. As the Red Viper made his name show. However, Doran only glances at his brother.
"Trust me, for our revenge will come. Never doubt it," Doran replied as he gave Oberyn the note the princess had written him. "I believe in her. Because my daughter believes in her. But I also believe in you, my brother. That's why choosing her will put us closer to the people who wronged us all these years."
Oberyn didn't have to hear more. While he disagreed with many things, his brother did. One thing was clear. He still remembers their goals, even after so many years.
"Alright... but are you still going with that other plan? About the Targaryen girl across the Narrow Sea?"
The other Targaryen girl made Doran question if she would be necessary. In fact, currently, he had no idea that either of them was alive. But he believed that, at least, the Baratheon princess had a better chance of surviving than the other missing child. Nevertheless, Dora would play his game and see who gets crowned first.
"We must take care of all ends. And be prepared for everything but for now. Let's see, where does this piece land."
Doran sighed, and so did Oberyn, who returned to his seat while Ellaria tried to comfort him. That was, until a messenger arrived at the room, bearing news that would make them realize that war was no longer a possibility but a reality.
"Eddard Stark is dead."
In one of the Lannister camps, Tywin Lannister was on his wit's end after a rough week. His patience was running dry, and his own arrogance has to lead to their current situation. Not that Tywin would admit it publically. But he realized his mistakes now. Tywin stared at the letter, the news he had just received, and could only take a deep breath.
"They have my son," was all the Lord of Casterly Rock had to say. None of the Lords attending the meeting could honestly say more about it. They just sheepishly look around. All but one.
"The Stark boy appears less green than we'd hoped," Tyrion added. He had already been in a fight. Sort of. He was unconscious during the battle but was still present for it. Still, he attended this crucial meeting and was not genuinely nervous about making his stance known to his beloved father, who would be pretty irritated to hear his voice now. Nevertheless, Tywin knew Tyrion was right all along, making the entire situation more unbearable.
"I've heard his wolf killed a dozen men and as many horses..."
"Is it true about Stannis and Renly?"
"Both Baratheon brothers have taken up against us. Jamie captured, his army's scattered. The princess still lost. It's a catastrophe," Kevan added, looking at his older brother carefully. Tywin was still refusing to look at every one. He was still thinking deeply about what to do with the current situation. "Perhaps we should sue for peace?"
Tyrion scoffed internally as he simply pushed a cup off the table, shattering the glass on the dirt floor. Such action did bring everyone's attention to him, even Tywin. "There's your peace. Joffrey saw to that when he decided to remove Ned Stark's head. You'll have an easier time drinking from that cup than you will, bringing Robb Stark to the table now. He is winning, in case you haven't noticed."
Tyrion's words clearly state the current situation, and none of the lords could honestly say anything besides that.
"I'm told we still have his sisters," Kevan tried to bring the political approach; of course, none of the other lords seemed to share the same view.
"The first order of business is ransoming Ser Jaime...!"
"No truces. We can't afford to look weak. We shall march on them at once-!"
"But first, we must return to Casterly Rock and raise more men-!"
Tyrion shook his head at the lords, just simply saying nonsense. But he paid attention to his father's back and knew that soon enough. The Old Lion would show his jaw.
"They have my son!" Tywin yelled, glaring at them as if they were nothing but sheep with clowns' clothes. "Get out. All of you."
Tywin's orders were obeyed without question. In fact, some of them were happy to leave the tent and be away as far as possible from Tywin Lannister's anger. Tyrion was one of them. However, Tywin had other plans for his son.
"Not you," he said, stopping Tyrion in his tracks. "Sit."
"Don't mind if I do," Tyrion muttered awkwardly before his father.
"You were right about Eddard Stark," Tywin finally said as he served wine for both of them. It was disturbing for Tyrion, who simply had no idea what his father was planning. The only thing he could do was take a sip of wine and stare at the Old Lion nervously.
"If he were alive. We could have used him to break a peace with Winterfell and Riverrun... which would have given us more time to deal with Robert's brother and to search for my granddaughter. But now... madness. Madness and stupidity."
Tywin threw the piece of paper on the table. "I always thought you were a stunted fool. Perhaps, all those things my granddaughter told me were true. And I was wrong."
Tywin stated, much to the surprise of Tyrion, who was checking the wine and himself. Trying to tell himself he wasn't that drunk yet. However, his father's look, those cold green eyes, told him Tywin wasn't pleased to say as much. Not entirely. But, regardless of what Tywin felt about him. The fact that Galadriel's words were affecting his father spoke volumes of how much the princess meant to the family in general.
"What can I say... I am Galadriel's favourite uncle," Tyrion replied softly. "But you're half wrong. I'm new to strategy, but if we don't want to be surrounded by three armies. It seems we cannot stay here."
Tyrion spoke gently, still trying not to get himself excited about the prospect of his father finally being proud of him. But he still wanted to believe in that little fantasy of his.
"No one will stay here. Ser Gregor will head out with 500 hundred riders and set the Riverlands on fire from God's Eye to the Red Fork. The rest of us will regroup at Harrenhal."
Tywin sighed, sipping wine before saying the most challenging thing of the entire conversation. "And you will go to King's Landing."
Tyrion then frowned, not knowing what those words meant. "And do what?" He asked, genuinely confused.
"Rule," Tywin finally said as Tyrion stood there, frozen. "You'll serve as Hand of the King in my stead. You'll bring that boy-king to heel and his mother if necessary. And if you get so much as a whiff of treason from any of the rest. Baelish, Varys, Pycell..."
"Heads, spikes, walls..." Tyrion added as Tywin simply nodded. "Why not my uncle...? Why not anyone? Why me?" Tyrion simply asked, still shocked to be given such a responsibility. However, Tywin only stared back at him with the same calculative green eyes.
"You're my son..." Tywin only replied. "My granddaughter trusts you... I'll do the same too."
Tywin only stood up and got ready to leave before leaning to Tyrion's ear and letting a last warning. "One more thing. You will not take that whore to court. Understood?"
Tyrion didn't say much nor reply to the whore comment. He just sat there, baffled by everything. However, one thing was clear. If things have gone this far out, even his father has given him such a huge responsibility. It meant that things were not going good for them.
Things were slowly changing and becoming more blur to Ser Davos, who, after a long time serving Lord Stannis, finally founds himself in a position he never intended to be in. Or at least one he had no way to reason with. The Red Priestess has poisoned his Lord's mind with tales of the Lord of Light. About him, being the Prince that was Promised and many other things that made little sense to him. All of that, of course, didn't matter to Ser Davos. However, it would be a lie if he didn't find it disturbing.
"And I declare upon the honour of my house that my beloved brother, Robert, left-"
"He wasn't my beloved brother," Stannis quickly corrected, as Ser Davos could only sigh tiredly at the reaction of his king. "I didn't love him. He didn't love me. Take it out."
"A harmless courtesy, Your Grace," Ser Davos replied, knowing full well that Stannis wouldn't allow such a word to be spoken about when referring to his relationship with Robert. Love was outside the Baratheon vocabulary.
"It's a lie. Take it out," Stannis only said, as the poor young scriber simply nodded, nervously scratching the word away.
"That my brother, Robert, left but one true heir. The princess, Galadriel Baratheon. And that the boy, Joffrey, the boy, Tommen, and the girl, Myrcella, are but bastards born of incest between Cersei Lannister and her brother, Ser Jaime Lannister, the Kingslayer, by right of birth and blood. I do this day lay claim to the Iron Throne of Westeros... until the true heir, left by previous King Robert Baratheon, princess Galadriel Baratheon is found. Let all loyal men declare their loyalty."
The words were spoken, and Ser Davos glanced at Melissandre, the Red Priestess, who hummed deeply. He didn't know what that woman was thinking. Perhaps he honestly didn't want to know. But there was one thing clear. The woman disagreed with Stannis on that small regard. She wanted him to be king of Westeros and purge those who still pray to the Seven. But Stannis was oath-bound to follow his brother's judgment and serve his niece. The true heir to the throne, regardless of his personal belief. That was the type of man, Stannis Baratheon was. A man of integrity and honour.
"Honorable words, Your Grace," Ser Davos added quickly before Melissandre had any say. "Few men would not take this opportunity to claim the throne for themselves."
Stannis now stared at him. "I'm not just a man," Stannis answered stoically. "Let rats and pigs play in the mud. I'm Stannis Baratheon of Stormlands. The Prince that Was Promised, and I'll do my duty, no matter how small, or if I agree with it. That made me different. My brother was the oldest. I am bound to serve him. That's a law as old as mankind itself. And he made princess Galadriel Baratheon, his true heir. A queen. And I shall serve her, as I did my brother. The rest doesn't matter."
Stannis' words echoed throughout the room as he stared at anyone who dared to say anything different. "When Eddard Stark told me the truth, he only told me. I will not make the same mistakes. Send that letter to every corner of the Seven Kingdoms, from the Arbor to the Wall. The time has come to choose. Let no man claim ignorance as an excuse."
"Your Grace," Ser Davos interrupted. "The whereabouts of the princess is still unknown. Our reports told us that she escaped King's Landing with Ser Barristan and her two... bastard siblings."
"Her blood may have the Dragon taint and Lion's greed. But she is still a Baratheon. She's alive," Stannis replied, almost shrugging off; Ser Davos' concerns about the princess. "She has a veteran and experienced knight on her side. A man whose honour is unquestioned. And while Mya and Gendry are bastards, they are still her blood. My blood. They'll protect her."
Ser Davos nodded slowly. Truth be told, from what he knew. Mya and Gendry were Robert's oldest bastards and incredibly loyal to the princess. In fact, it seemed they adored her. But who wouldn't? Ser Davos has only met them a few times, the princess. Her allure, her entire being, just screamed devotion. A gentle soul, fit to be revered. And putting that aside, he has seen what Gendry and Mya could do. He was there when Robert and the Queen put them to the test, fighting almost to the death to show their ability to defend the princess against anyone who dared to harm her.
And they succeeded, with shining numbers. They were deadly killing machines, and with Ser Barristan on her side. Maybe, the princess was the most protected person in all Seven Kingdoms now. But still, he also believed the princess was unharmed. There was still a significant problem before them.
"I don't doubt it either, Your Grace. But still, the Lannisters are our true enemies, but they are led by the princess's grandfather, Lord Tywin Lannister. Wouldn't it be better if we found common ground with him to start a truce and focus on Renly and King's Landing?"
Ser Davos asked, and truth be told, Stannis could see what his loyal knight had in mind. However, they were talking about Tywin Lannister, a man who would do whatever it's necessary to win. The entire ordeal was beyond a few words now.
"I will not make peace with Renly while he calls himself King, or Tywin Lannister," Stannis replied with an icy tone of voice. "He's a man who will stop at nothing to protect his legacy. And Joffrey, while a bastard, is still his blood and king. Tywin Lannister will like it to remain as such."
"Still... they have enough soldiers and supplies in the Crownlands... and with Renly's forces gathering. We are at a disadvantage."
"And many have already declared for him. There's Tyrell, Ronald Tarly..."
"And we don't have enough ships either..."
"Stannis does not need to beg this lord or that lord for support," Melissandre quickly intervene. "The Lord of Light stands behind him."
"And how many ships have the Lord of Light got in his fleet?" Ser Davos asked now, staring at the Red Priestess, who simply smiled at him.
"He has no need for ship."
"I'm sure he doesn't, but we do if we want to win this war," Ser Davos' words seemed to make Melissandre only smile wider. One must ask if she understands they were in a war or not. Truthfully, Ser Davos couldn't care about the Lord of whatever. He was a rational man, not a devoted one. Still, he could see Stannis thinking deeply about what was a stake.
"If not Tywin Lannister... join forces with Robb Stark. We haven't heard about him declaring to anyone yet."
"The boy is deep in the Riverlands, facing the Lannister's forces. And I wouldn't be surprised if he calls himself king after his victory at the Oxcross."
That shut everyone up, but Ser Davos wasn't sure such a thing would occur. However, he couldn't truly convince Stannis otherwise. He couldn't think of something more. After many victories, any man would believe they could take a crown and a throne. What would make Robb Stark so different from the rest?
"Joffrey, Renly, Robb Stark. They're all thieves. They'll bend the knee, or I'll destroy them. No more."
Ser Davos sighed deeply before watching Cressen trying to understand what had happened during the last ritual. The maester attempted to poison the Red Priestess, only for him to end up on the other side of the cup. Stannis only saw the man who taught him how to read and write on the floor, blood spewing out his mouth. In seconds, he was dead.
"The night is dark and full of terrors, old man. But the fire burns them all away."
Ser Davos knew, then, that whatever the Red Priestess was or wasn't. Stannis was far too deep inside this cult to ever get out.
Cersei's face showed the usual smirk and a beautiful and young appearance, however, inside those green eyes of her. A woman carrying anguish, pain and stress began to appear. When she entered the throne room, she saw her son, Joffrey, looking around as the workers started dismantling everything and transforming the throne room into whatever this twisted mind wanted to look like. Her heart clenched as Joffrey's appearance began to look more like Jaime every single day.
But Cersei found herself disappointed, as she wanted to see the golden eyes of her daughter again.
"What is all this?" Cersei asked as she approached Joffrey, who only smirked at her.
"Turning this room to its proper appearance. Say what you will about the Targaryens; they were conquerors. That is a seat for a conqueror," Joffrey pointed at the Iron Throne, believing that soon enough, once the war was over. He'll sit there with the head of all his enemies around him. Joffrey could almost smile at the vision in his mind. However, Cersei only stared back at him, wondering what he had conquered.
"So you're remoulding the throne room?" Cersei only whispered, looking as they took apart the beautiful murals Galadriel put. The elegance it was surrounded the throne room was now being replaced by whatever Joffrey wanted.
"Of course. I need room to match my dominions. My rule. No vines, flowers, and murals of the Crownlands. Gods, Galadriel's taste truly reflects how weak women are," Joffrey sneered mockingly. Cersei only glanced at him and tried to shrug his comments off.
"We can't find Arya Stark, nor your sister," Cersei asked, as Joffrey scoffed.
"Well, with luck, that beast of a girl is dead in a ditch somewhere..."
"And your sister?"
"She has those two bastards and that traitor Ser Barristan with her... I doubt she death," Joffrey muttered, still sore that the old knight took off with his sister instead of being with him. The true king. But he didn't care about that ancient relic. His Kingsguard was better off without an old man among them. "Galadriel may be somewhere running like always."
Cersei took a deep breath but continued her charade. "We need them; with Arya Stark, with can trade them to the Starks for your uncle Jaime. We need more than just Sansa. And your sister is still important to us. The entire common folk want their princess back."
Joffrey's demeanour changed because the people wanted the princess more than him. He was not a fool. Joffrey has heard the songs, the people chantings about him not being a true Baratheon, about how the princess was the true heir. All wanted her as their Queen and not him. He had the same reaction since he was a child. The exact words, on repeat, inside his mind.
Galadriel is so bright! Look at everything she has accomplished! When is the Prince going to do something?
The princess has been blessed by the Seven. There's no doubt about it. She overshadows the Prince.
The princess would be a far better ruler than Joffrey. I mean, that's the reason King Robert made her his heir.
Joffrey has heard those words and made them pay for such slander. Nevertheless, he would never rest until his sister was dead. He didn't care about anything else. Joffrey would rejoice, having her head on a spike for everyone to see. But he'll wait. Joffrey wanted to hear the screams of his sister. He would personally torture her for days before she begged him to kill her.
But Joffrey would wait. Now, he had to go on with whatever his mother wanted to do.
"Who cares about what the common folk wants? I am their king," Joffrey stated. "And the Stark will take what we want. Because they're weak. They put too much value on their women."
Cersei noticed the sneer on his son's face, which hurt her. It undoubtedly did, how he looked down on her. If I were born a man... Cersei could only think, as she kept on her strong face of her. Trying to keep her son under control.
"We need to send people to find her. Maybe those mercenaries of yours."
"No... they'll remain here at my side."
"Joffrey, we must find her... we need to send as many soldiers as possible. I'm sure if you asked grandfather-"
"A king does not ask," Joffrey interrupted. "He commands."
Cersei knew that if Tywin was there, Joffrey would not dare to say such words.
"My grandfather's stupidity on the battlefield is why Robb Stark has uncle Jaime in the first place. If I were out there, Robb Stark would've been dealt with already," Joffrey announced loud enough for some soldiers and workers to hear. Whatever the reaction Joffrey was waiting for, it was ultimately the opposite. No one believed Joffrey could swing a sword, let alone command an entire army. But no one dared to say anything.
"Of course," Cersei said only filling Joffrey's ego. "But Jaime's life is in danger."
"We're at war. All our lives are in danger," Joffrey remarked, now staring at his mother with a nasty sneer. But soon recalled a specific lie. One that ate him inside. He didn't believe it, but Joffrey was the most inside person in all Seven Kingdoms. "I heard a disgusting lie about Uncle Jaime and you."
Cersei only saw those green eyes staring at her and only smiled. "Our enemies will say anything to weaken your claim to the throne."
"It's not a claim. The throne is mine. Not Galadriel's... not my uncles, but mine alone."
Cersei's just nodded at him again. And again.
"Of course it is."
Joffrey only scoffed at his mother.
"No one believes this fowl gossip."
"Someone believes it," Joffrey replied quickly. "Father had more children, did he not? Besides those bastards, Mya and Gendry. He has more of them around... right?"
Cersei simply stopped in place, dreading what her son was thinking.
"What are you asking...?" Cersei asked worriedly.
Joffrey now smirked. "I'm asking if he fucked other women when he grew tired of you?"
Soon enough, a resounding slap was heard, stopping everyone in the throne room from continuing their job. Joffrey looked at his mother, utterly shocked she dared to raise her hand upon him. Soon, the workers continued their duty, trying to ignore whatever was happening. Joffrey only stared at her, at Cersei. And while those eyes of him reflected fear and submissiveness, the Queen noticed a wave of increasing anger. Fury, and a twisted lack of control.
"What you just did... it's punishable by death," Joffrey warned. "You will never do it again. Do you hear me? Never. Again."
At that moment, Cersei realized that Joffrey was slowly slipping away from her grasp. How long until she loses total control over him? She was afraid to even think about it.
Galadriel sighed deeply as she finally understood how unforgiven the climate of the Stormlands was. Always raining and wet. The sun was always hidden behind a thick fog or clouds. And it seemed a rather harsh place to live. Yet, life finds its way. And from what Galadriel could see, it was clear that currently, the Stormlands were filled with quite a large group of people.
Galadriel was hiding under a cloak, just like the rest of them, and riding with Mya while avoiding the biggest towns, making their travel longer than it should have. However, they noticed it was becoming impossible, especially with the sizeable bannermen gathering on the coast.
It was an incredibly sizeable camp, with riders everywhere and an equal number of large ships on the shore. All with the same flags.
"The is a war camp," Ser Barristan quickly noticed approaching a group of soldiers with the banner of the Stormlands.
"Are we sure about this...?" Gendry whispered as the group came to a stop.
"Well, it's too late to run," Mya muttered as Galadriel hugged her from behind.
"It's fine, trust me..." Galadriel whispered, noticing the group of soldiers pointing their spears at them.
"You're approaching the camp of King Renly Baratheon. State your name and purpose here."
Ser Barristan glanced at Galadriel, who nodded at him as she removed her cloak, just like him. The moment they saw that unusual white hair, the soldier knew who she was and who the rest were.
"I'm Ser Barristan Selmy, Knight Commander of the Queensguard of the true Queen of Westeros, Galadriel Baratheon," Ser Barristan, while old, his voice still carried a powerful and authoritative tone of voice. And it makes sure to remark to whom he swore allegiance first.
"Please, my good sir... I came here to look out for my uncle," Galadriel stated as the soldiers looked at each other and nodded slowly.
"Please, follow us, my princess."
"She's your queen," Mya muttered angrily before Galadriel patted her back.
"It's okay," Galadriel stated amusingly. It's time to meet with my dear uncle Renly.
They approached the middle of the large camp, where a loud commotion was being heard. Galadriel tilted her head, wondering what was happening, but soon enough, she found out that, in the middle of what looked like a sort of tourney, where a battle was held. A woman stood before Renly, and his Queen, Margaery.
Well, well, isn't that Catelyn Stark? Mm, time does fly by when you're enjoying the peace and quiet of the large forest of Kingswood. Galadriel has, of course, heard everything going on. The battles her grandfather lost against the young wolf, Robb Stark. Which was in itself quite surprising to hear. And the capture of her uncle Jaime. The many proclamations of kings left, right and centre. And the soon movement of the Iron Island to start their own little rebellion too.
Quite the madness going around. But one, Galadriel genuinely enjoy watching. Still, her presence made waves across the establishment as soon as everyone noticed her presence.
"Your Grace," one of the soldiers said. "I have the honour to bring you, princess Galadriel Baratheon."
Renly and Margaery quickly moved their heads and noticed the golden eyes. Catelyn saw the girl, now a woman, who, in another life, would have married her son. Honestly, she has become more beautiful as time goes by. Still, Catelyn saw the sword being carried by Gendry. She knew immediately that it was Ned's ancestral Vayrian sword, Ice.
"My dear niece...!" Renly quickly approached Galadriel, much to the irritation of Ser Barristan, Gendry and Mya. But Galadriel simply hushes them. "When I heard what took place... I fear the worst."
Renly said, hugging and kissing Galadriel's cheek.
"I tried looking for you but couldn't take you with me."
Galadriel smiled, pretending to be happy. Of course, she knew. It was a lie. Renly left King's Landing the moment Robert died. And when Ned proved to be not following his lead.
"Uncle, it's good to see you," Galadriel said before turning her sight to Catelyn. "My lady... I have heard of what happened. I'm sorry."
Catelyn looked at her and gulped deeply, still mourning the loss of her husband. "You're most kind," Catelyn whispered.
"I tried to bring Lord Stark with me... but he didn't want to leave unless his children were safe."
"I know, I have read the letter," Catelyn quickly said. "It's something Ned would have done. No doubt."
"I brought his sword... he wanted me to give him to Robb," Galadriel whispered as Gendry quickly pulled the large Valyrian sword.
Catelyn simply closed her eyes as the pain came back to her. But simply shook her face, trying to not break down in front of so many people.
"Thank you... but for now, it is better in capable hands. I know, Robb will agree."
"I'm sure to give it to him if we can see each other again... Gods be good."
Galadriel only smiled, portraying her role as the angel she was. However, she then stared at Renly with a hurt face.
"Uncle, is it true what they say?" Galadriel faked hurt as she stared at him. "That you have proclaimed yourself as king?"
Renly was taken aback by that expression. Honestly, it was hard to look at those golden eyes without feeling hurt by them. "I apologize, my niece. But the Seven Kingdoms deserve a man who will look after them. A King who will bring them to a new age of prosperity."
"And you decided that becoming a usurper will make people think you're that person?" Ser Barristan snapped.
Many knights there quickly growled at him. Ser Loras and Brienne of Tarth promptly drew their swords, but Renly stopped them. "Ser Barristan, no men here will question your honour or duty. And while you may disagree with my motives. I can only thank you for being there for my niece."
Renly then stared around and did what he was known for, to bring everyone's attention to him. "My niece, the princess, shall not be harmed by any sword. She's an honourable guest. And hopefully, we may find common ground for the good of the realm."
"The good of the realm...?" Now Catelyn added, wondering what Renly was genuinely thinking. So far, he didn't look like a man who knew a war was happening. He, in fact, looked like everything was a game for him. A big show and nothing more.
"Please, my niece, my lady, we should talk more about this once both of you rested. Please, do not be afraid. I'm not a Lannister. I tread envoys and family, as a king would."
Galadriel rolled her eyes internally. Almost scoffing at her uncle's behaviour. Yet, it was amusing to see someone pass out when looking at blood, acting all high and mighty in front of people. However, it does allow for some breathing room, and now she only had to wait and see what the rest do in these situations.
Galadriel sighed after finally taking a long and warm bath. She did enjoy travelling, but she does enjoy showering every day too. However, she was keeping an ear out for what her loyal companions were speaking.
"Renly Baratheon has gathered a hundred thousand men. All the knights from the Stormlands and the Reach. He now possesses the biggest army in all Seven Kingdoms."
"An army doesn't make him a king..."
"Yeah, but it does help..."
Galadriel hummed deeply, wondering what was to happen now. She wanted to hear her uncle's movements and what he'll do now. If Galadriel were to guess, Renly would not take her to meet her dear uncle Stannis, who had sent a raven to his brother to meet. Renly wasn't a fool, he may act as if he cared for her, and maybe he does care for her. But, Renly would also use her as a bargaining chip. Renly knew that having the princess on his side solidified his claim. Better than anything else. But also, he wanted to keep her unaware of who was trying to aid her. The fewer enemies the better. Perhaps, he'll try to convince her to simply gave up the throne, in order to have peace or whatever.
Very smart, uncle Renly. You do have a brain, after all. Galadriel chuckled. However, you're not going to be using me as a toy.
"So, what should we do now?" Gendry asked.
"I don't know..."
"We should leave as soon as possible. I don't trust Renly..." Mya whispered as she was standing just outside Galadriel's changing room.
"Margaery is with him now. Queen..." Galadriel called behind the curtains covering her small lavatory.
"I knew she'll do something like this," Mya murmured angrily. "She wanted to be the queen, remember?"
"And now she has accomplished that," Gendry added. "And has an army big enough to storm King's Landing."
"I hate to admit it, but yes, and with the Reach support, Renly's army will not get hungry... not for a long time."
Galadriel then Shadow Demons appeared from within the shadows, whispering to her. Of course, no one could hear them, but it certainly allowed Galadriel to smile brightly. Of course, he'll be here... what a fast-moving man.
Galadriel then put on some clothes quickly and made her presence known. "Regardless, we can't stay with uncle Renly. Otherwise, I'll be used as a prisoner of war. Not that my uncle will ever say it in such a manner..."
Galadriel said, and soon, Baelish made himself known. "Wise words, my princess."
Ser Barristan and Gendry quickly noticed someone entering the room and got ready for anything that may happen. Mya put herself between her Queen and whoever dared to enter. But soon enough, they met the smirking smile of Littlefinger.
"Lord Baelish," Ser Barristan stated, surprised to see him. "What are you doing here?"
"Doing my duty as a loyal servant of the crown," Ser Baelish said, watching Galadriel keenly.
"My mother's bidding, or Joffrey?" Galadriel asked now, looking at the Master of Coin simply smile.
"You know your mother's reach better than I do, my princess. And your brother, well, he certainly lacks the tact for political manoeuvres."
"Queen! She's your rightful Queen," Mya hissed, not liking how Littlefinger observed Galadriel. The Mockingbird simply chuckled at Mya's expression.
"Ah, I apologize. So many kings and queens lately. It's hard to keep up, I know, Your Grace will understand."
Galadriel knew Baelish's game all too well. She was surprised to see him on the field, walking from one point to the next. No doubt, he already spoke with Renly and promised him to open the gates of King's Landing for him as long he kept his position and head. Although, she doubted it would happen. Baelish knew about bad investments, and aiding Renly was one of them.
"So, you already spoke with Uncle Renly, then?" Galadriel asked, tilting her head as Baelish nodded.
"Not a long conversation. Lord Renly seems to not like my presence. But he understands the need to keep friends at court."
Galadriel hummed deeply, but then she decided to make her move too. "And you, Lord Baelish. To whom do you swear loyalty at the end of the day? Who are your friends at court?" Galadriel asked, strolling to him. "My mother? My dear beloved brother? My grandfather's gold? Or yourself?"
Baelish now stared at the princess with calculative eyes. These prior experiences have made her more mature. Baelish thought with a smirk. "Who can say? But, I have always shown my loyalty to the crown."
"Whoever wears it seems," Gendry scoffed slightly.
"Practically all around. A man in my position has to be flexible," Baelish stated happily. "Won't you agree, Your Grace?"
Galadriel could read Baelish's intentions from miles away. She had met people like him before. Sneaky, two faces, relatively easy with the words and much more. Nevertheless, Galadriel wants him on her side. Otherwise, she'll have to kill him. And he was too much fun, a truly wild card.
"I do; that's why I want your help, Lord Baelish," Galadriel said, now Baelish paying attention to the girl's words.
"My help?" Baelish smirked. "Why should I...?"
"Because not only I'm your Queen. I know, that you're a smart man," Galadriel said, now staring at him. "Adding, Renly is not in your best interest."
"Is it not...?" Baelish replied tilting his head, letting Galadriel say whatever she wanted. Trying to see, what she could offer him.
"You're not a fool. And won't make enemies of my family. A Lannister always pay his debts, right? And not only that, you know, I'm well loved by my grandfather, the most powerful man in all Seven Kingdoms. I'm not alone, and even in the Reach are those who are still loyal to me. You may want to play all sides, but we know what side is going to come victorious at the end."
Baelish hummed, looking at her, thinking deeply. "You seem very confident in your success, Your Grace."
"Yes, I am."
Baelish then smiled at her. "What would you have me do, then?"
"I want you to go to Dorne."
"Dorne?" Now, Baelish tilted his head but was confused. "What would I ever do there?"
"The Martell, ask for the allegiance to me... I have written a letter to Prince Doran Martell in the past, and Arianne has told me that if it ever comes to war. They'll support me."
"And you trust their words? They hate the Lannisters, remember?"
"Yes, they do. But I know we can come to an agreement," Galadriel then began to write a letter, knowing that Baelish was going to read it anyway. "I want you to take this to them. We are not going to spend more time here. I shall meet with Uncle Stannis."
"Lord Stannis? Are you sure, Your Grace?" Baelish asked, frowning, wondering what the princess was thinking.
"He's a man who puts duty before anything. I know he'll support my claim. Also, I know my grandfather will also support me when it comes down to it. And if I'm lucky, I may break a peace treaty with Robb Stark. But before that... I have to stop uncle Renly."
Baelish took Galadriel's letter and stared at those golden eyes with curiosity. "I'm sorry, Your Grace, but, I doubt, you'll convince Renly to give up his claim. Or Joffrey, for that matter. Also, have you heard Robb Stark is now King in the North? Westeros is now filled with pretenders all over the place. You'll need more than just words to stop this war now."
Galadriel then stared at him and nodded. "I know. I need an army."