Bab 3: Red Keep
The Stark by Dscot
I do not own this story.
CH3
Before entering the Red Keep, I ordered some of the northern forces to hold position and guard the entrance. I selected Lord Mormont, giving him 6,000 men to hold the gates and the surrounding grounds. When I entered the Red Keep my way was blocked by 80 Lannister soldiers. I'm not sure why they thought it was a smart move to block the passageway since I had more than 12,000 men following me. Yet they decided to stand in my way. My guess was Lannister arrogance and stupidity. As I marched forward, I ordered them to surrender. One man who looked like he was in charge of the group just smiled at me stupidly. It seems he found it amusing to be told what to do. Perhaps he believed in the reputation of the Lannister's as well as the legend of Tywin would be enough. That no one would truly challenge them. I could see a few of the brighter men slowly laying their weapons down. When I was 20 feet away from them I again ordered them to lay their weapon down and to surrender peacefully and allow my men to take them into custody. That earned me a laugh and a mocking smirk from the leader. He started to unsheathe his blade as I continued to walk towards him. When I was six steps away from them. I raised my hand which was the signal for two of my bodyguards to quickly move forward. With a quick swing from its hammer, it bashed in the leader's knees. Then moved to the next soldier to its right. Using its shield, it slammed the Lannister men away from the middle to make a growing gap for me to walk through. While my second bodyguard moved towards the soldier to the left and used its shield to push the Lannister's back making some of them fall to the ground. Using its hammer, it crushed anyone who tried to get around its shield. The last bodyguard moved in front of me. Ready to protect and block anything and anyone who might try to come towards me. A small group of northern troops quickly charged forward and engaged the remaining Lannister soldiers still stupid enough to fight. I called out to my men to try to subdue them but not to risk their lives doing so. I then turn to Lord Dustin leaving 2000 men with him to guard and secure the entrance. After walking through several hallways, we arrived at an intersection near the bottom of the stair that will lead me to the royal living area. I looked towards my uncle Ned pointing down the left passage and informed him that is the way to the throne room. Before we parted I ordered 100 men to go with him while I ordered another 6,000 men to stay in a group of 50 and start clearing out the red keep. I ordered them to round up everyone and bring them to the courtyard. If they happen to run into Lannister's or any gold cloaks, they are to order them to surrender. If not, they are to eliminate them. Reminding them that I want the main Lannister family alive. Any other soldier, even if they're from a noble family. that if they disobey the order to surrender, they should be eliminated. I told them it does not matter what rank in society they hold. I will back their decision. I also told them that if they run into Varys to cut him down before he can say anything. I ordered them to always keep an eye on each other's group never to roam off by themselves. Informing them that there are secret passages and telling them to watch their back as they can be outflanked if they're not paying attention. I don't actually expect them to encounter any resistance, but I'd rather them be cautious.
I still had 4,000 soldiers with me and I was peeling them off at every intersection leaving 100 to guard the pathways. I order them that if they find any Lannister or gold cloaks still roaming through the castle. I ordered that they demand the enemy forces to surrender. If they continue to disobey, they are ordered to subdue them. As well as to keep an eye out for Tywin Lannister, I wanted him captured.
When I turn down the hallway that the princess chamber is situated. I saw my bodyguards standing at the entrances of the hallway blocking any way of getting to the princess's room. Also noticed that there were 30 more men who were added to the prisoner pile. As well as what looks to be another 80 corpses. Walking past my bodyguards I couldn't help but give several prisoners a kick in the head since they were in the path that I was walking. One stupid one wouldn't move his head so I kicked it a few more times before I realized he was dead. I guess that's why he didn't flinch at the pain. Laughing to myself I continued my walk to the princess's chamber.
As I walked in, I surveyed the room. I saw Elia curled up in the corner, she had her arms wrapped around her knees, her eyes locked on her child's body. Aegon is a bloody mess on the floor unrecognizable as a child. Rhaenys looks to have been pulled from under the bed, her lower leg still under the bed and blocked from view from half of a comforter that slid from the bed. Her hair pulled above her head in a knot where you can see Sir Piggy using it to pull her out from under the bed before stabbing her in her chest. Taking the rest of the comforter off the bed I laid it over the child's body. Then taking a blanket and laying it over the body of Aegon. Then slowly approaching Elia. Sending a calming charm at her I started to talk to her in a soothing voice trying to get her to focus on me and stop staring at the spot where her child is.
As I approached her, I touched her head making her flinch back and focus on me. looking panicked after a second of her looking at me she slowly calmed down. Probably assuming I'm not a threat since I'm just a child. I calmly talked to her and encouraged Elia to stand up and walk out of the room. As I walked out into the hallway, I ordered two of my bannerman to gather the children. Then had her focus back on me. I told her we're going to get her out of here and back with her brothers. Elia froze again when she saw the mountain, she clung to me tighter. I had one of my bodyguards stand between her and the mountain, to block her view of him. She seemed to relax a bit seeing my armor warriors. I had brought two female healers with me and had them come over to start to help and talk with the princess. I ordered 500 men to stay and guard Elia. I also left two of my bodyguards with her. I told them to move her to one of the empty rooms we passed coming here. I ordered them to lock the corridor down and kill anyone who approaches. Looking down at the prisoners, I ordered 50 men to go to the nearby armory and bring me a hundred spears. Telling them that I need them to be at least 10 feet tall and two inches thick. I then ordered several of my men to keep an eye out for two large chests that would have been used to transport gold or treasure.
I left two of my bodyguards with my soldiers and ordered them to take the prisoners down to the main entrance of the red keep. While they were doing that, I went to the throne room. With me I had my six bodyguards, 50 crossbow men and 250 soldiers, as well as my uncle Rodrik and his 60 men. As I walked down the corridor towards the throne room I passed the men I had ordered to search and secure the passageways. I ordered at least 30 spearmen to peel off from each group to follow me. I also ordered all crossbowmen that I found to follow me as well. By the time we got to the hallway that led to the throne room I had roughly a little more than 1000 men with me.
As I was looking into the throne room, before entering I saw who I guess to be Tywin Lannister and a man in the King's guards' white armor with golden hair which I assumed was his son sir Jamie Lannister. There were also two other men near Tywin that looked like family members. One who seems to be a close age to Tywin who I assumed to be Kevin Lannister. As well as nearly 300 Tywin soldiers. Standing there with only 100 of my men is my uncle with his sword out yelling at Jamie Lannister threatening him. Whenever I feel like I forget how dumb Ned can be he always reminds me. He has 100 men and they have 300. If I did not show up. Who knows how the situation would end. He would probably get my men killed and himself as well.
Though I am not going to allow this opportunity to pass me. With a quiet whisper to my uncle Rodrik, I ordered him to inform the bowman to position themselves when they entered the throne room to be able to fire upon the Lannister's telling them not to hit the Lannister brothers but their soldiers. Uncle Rodrik then cleared his throat to get everyone to pay attention to us as we walked into the room. I supposed he didn't need to do that since having 1000 armored and armed men walking into a room where you are outnumbered. Would make anyone focus on the newcomers. After taking in my troops Tywin focused on my uncle Rodrik. Clearing his throat again uncle Rodrik ordered all Lannister's to lay their weapons down and surrender to prince Leon of house Stark gesturing towards me. Giving the Lannister's a wave to get them focus on me. I let them know in a cheerful voice that each of them will have a trial in front of King Robert Baratheon, the first of his name. I then informed them that if they do not surrender in the next 30 seconds, I will have no choice but to order half of my crossbowmen to fire upon a group of rebels who have trespassed into Robert's throne room. As I started to count, Lord Tywin straightened up and started glaring at me. He asked me if I know who he is and what he does to those who threaten him. The entire time I'm still counting with the biggest smile on my face when I hit 30, I cheerfully order half of my crossbow men to fire into the Lannister men. I had the northern soldiers lower their spears to show they were ready for battle before I informed the Lannister once again that if they did not surrender after I counted 20, I would have the other half of my crossbow men fire upon them.
With widening eyes Tywin this time ordered his men to lay down their arms. His eyes slowly narrowed as he focused on me. I ordered one of my bodyguards to take Jamie to the black cells. When Tywin started to speak to me about the order, I had my man gag him. Then my men, because we did not have chains, cut strips off the clothes of the dead Lannister's, then tied Tywin and his brother's arms behind their backs. I had Tywin and his brothers dragged to the entrance of the red keep. Where my men had arrived with the prisoners from the princess's hallway. There was another group of prisoners, who were bound, and sitting on the ground while being guarded, filled with Lannister and gold cloaks that were gathered from the red keep. By now the Riverland and Vale forces had subdued the Lannister troops. for their own protection, as well as to help calm down the citizens of the city. The Lannister army had been made to march out of the city since they took heavy casualty, fighting the citizens of Kings Landing. With the help of the northern troops, they started to bring order back to the city. Seeing a commotion, several people came over to see what was going on at the entrance to the Red Keep. Right before I started to speak to the crowd, I got a message delivered to me informing me that Robert and the rest of the army was only 30 minutes away. After I read the letter, I turn to the crowd and informed them of what happened in the Red Keep. Of what Jamie Lannister did, using his new moniker of King slayer. Telling them in a quiet but audible voice of what happened to the Princess and Prince. Of how they were brutally murdered. Telling them of how the mountain took the babe in his hands and bashed his head against the wall. How a Lannister soldier had stabbed the little princess nearly 40 times before the vile creature was taken into custody. I pointed at the men who were captured outside of Princess Elia chamber. For the crime of assisting in the death of the royal children. I announced that in the name of king, Robert Baratheon, I Prince Leon of house Stark sentenced them to death by impalement. I had every man gagged so they could not plead to be sent to the wall or ask for a trial by combat. I had my bodyguards grab hold of the first man after yanking his trousers down. My other bodyguard took a spear and shoved it up his ass until the tip came out through his chest. I had the spear placed upright in a hole that was previously drilled by my men. I watch as the man dies too fast before he fully slides down the spear. I had Tywin stand there and watch as each of his men that he had sent were impaled in front of his eyes. I guess I shouldn't be too shocked to hear the crowd cheering as well as taunting, the Lannister soldiers while they were being impaled.
Finally, I had Piggy and the Mountain brought forward. My men found two large iron lockboxes. I had ordered several small holes drilled into the lid of the iron boxes and had the mountain and piggy placed into a box on their backs, with their head near the hole so we could give them water as well as them being able to breathe easily. Not long after I had secured the men in their new home, I saw Robert and Jon riding up. Jon looked disturbed at all the impaled men before he noticed Tywin was bound and gagged. Before he could berate me or ask what was going on Robert started to chuckle as he watched one of the impaled men start wiggling frantically before going still.
Jon tried to take Tywin and his brothers into his custody, but my men and I would not allow him, not before we spoke to the King about a contract. An hour later we all met in the throne room. Gathering around Robert. I argued my case that the contract was broken and Tywin had two options: either he pays me 5 million gold or the entire alliance must go to the Western lands and kill every single Lannister. Tywin had already grasped the danger that he was in. Making gestures with his head towards the hand of the king, making noises as if he wished to talk. Jon ordered for Tywin to be released, Tywin argued that he should not be held to a contract that he had no knowledge of. Jon explained that his knowledge of it was irrelevant. That under the contract Jon explained to Tywin that none of the alliance would have any choice but to have him and his family executed if he did not fulfill a breach of contract. Tywin argued that he had nothing to do with the death of Rhaenys. That has men acted without his knowledge. Eventually after several hours of arguing, threatening and haggling he reluctantly took responsibility for the action of his men that he claims he had nothing to do with. Towards the end of the day an agreement was made with Tywin by Jon.
Finally, Tywin agreed to pay the 5 million gold. To my surprise Uncle Rodrik informed Tywin that he will assist me in writing letters out lining the agreement, to the iron bank. Agreeing that we will both send letters to the iron bank to set up my vaults. Jon Arryn informed Tywin that if he did not want to pay for the guarantee payment insurance from the iron bank then his brothers and his son will be held in the black cells until payment is met. That Tywin will need to pay for the insurance from the iron bank guaranteeing his 5 million gold. That since he agrees to the terms of penalty of breach of contract until payment was met it requires the imprisonment of the Lannister brothers and Jamie Lannister. Angrily Tywin agree to it, and with the help of Jon, we had the letter stamped with the seal of the hand of the king, the Lannister seal, as well as the seal of house Stark. The letter was duplicated and handed to several ships that was heading towards Braavos. With the letters being sent to the iron bank and all agreements being made final Jon decided we should have a meal to bury any hatchets. I of course thought it was a splendid idea and was extremely happy to sit next to my new friend Tywin and his brothers to discuss what Casterly Rock was like. For some reason Tywin did not seem to enjoy my company which was a shame since I've been told that I'm such a lovely child to be around.
I think Tywin was struggling with the fact that he was not in a strong position, as he usually is. With one third of the Lannister troops dead from the vicious fighting in Kings Landing, as well as almost another third injured and unable to fight. The Lannister troops were the smallest forces around Kings Landing. A good portion of the Riverland troops had to stand guard to protect the Lannister's from small folks from the city and those who live in the farming village surrounding Kings Landing. During the first night a small group of Lannister soldiers try to raid a farm stead were found hanging from a tree..
After two days of rest, I had my Northern forces and at least half of the Vale and most of Stormlands army ready to march to the Stormlands. I encourage several Vale Lords to liberate some supplies from the Lannister's before marching out of the city with me. I wished to leave sooner, but surprisingly it took me a whole day to convince Robert even with all the compulsion and spells to let me deal with the reach problem and bring them into order. In our conversations I got the feeling that Robert wished to continue the war. The fact that he was frustrated that he was still injured, and could not march into the Stormlands and smash the Reach forces into a bloody pulp.. He really tries to fight the idea of negotiating but finally. Robert relented and I had him sign a letter saying that I have the authority to negotiate on the behalf of the crown. I even had Robert demand that I add terms to get some vantages for the north in the negotiation. Jon Arryn seemed a little annoyed at Robert for demanding that to be added in, but reminded me that the most important thing is to end the fighting and achieve peace. I was surprised that Jon wasn't making such a big deal of it. I have spent the least amount of time with him so I didn't put any spells on him other than the charm parchment. He didn't seem to like that I had impaled the Lannister men. I wonder if he thought sending me away was the smartest thing to do. Getting me away from Tywin since I took every opportunity to find and have a conversation with him. I also made it sound like a lot of Tywin's new found hardship was caused by Jon. Implying it in a way that makes it impossible for Jon to accuse me of lying or even to deny anything I'm saying. Towards end of my last day, I got the feeling that both Jon and Tywin went out of their ways to hide from me.
After traveling for two months my army was finally only 5 miles from Storms End. This trip took longer but we were ahead of schedule if you count the cannon schedule. Since I knew where my aunt was, I didn't need to wait for Varys to show up before I dealt with the reach. I also had the Vale and Stormlands lords steal some supplies, I mean borrowed some supplies from our new ally, and my good friend Tywin. So, we didn't have to spend the time gathering and haggling for supplies before the army could continue marching. I also commandeered four carriages with extra wheels. So, we could bring Princess Elia with us. I also made sure to get a proper wet nurse and three healers who know about complications that could happen in childbirth.
My scouts gathered information from local villages that we passed near Storms End that the Reach forces were in a panic, recalling all soldiers when they heard that the northern army was arriving. Almost as soon as we showed up the Reach sent a rider with a white flag and a message from Mace Tyrell that they wished for a truce before discussing their surrender. The Reach did not wish to fight the northern army. Since rumor has It that we are overwhelmingly victorious in battles and we are extremely brutal when dealing with enemies. Sending the message back with my response telling them that I will meet them tomorrow morning and at least for tonight there will be a truce. Early the next morning I had my men put up a pavilion tent halfway between our armies. Sitting with me under my pavilion was my maternal grandfather, uncle Rodrik, Lord Dustin and the Great Jon. I also gathered a few of the higher-ranking Lords of the Stormlands and Vale to have our breakfast before meeting with Mace Tyrell. After we were finished. I had signal one of my messengers to ride to the reach encampment to inform them we were ready to negotiate. Before inviting the Reach lords, under the tent, we offer them bread and salt. Each of the Lord's, taking a piece of bread and sprinkling some salt on it, before taking a bite. Before I started the discussions, I handed Mace a letter with the seal of the king and the office of the hand of the king. Giving me the authority to negotiate terms of surrender. Then informing the Reach Lords that they had to recognize Robert Baratheon as the king. The crown will recognize Mace Tyrell's right as paramount of the Reach. All Reach lords that supported the tyrants of house Targaryen, will be pardoned, and will be allowed to keep their lands and titles. I added that they will collectively give a quarter million gold to the lord paramount of the Stormlands to help repair any damages from the war. They are also to deliver high quality staple foods to the north for the next two years. They're also required to deliver food to the northern realm for the following 10 years at half the price of what the food prices were before the rebellion. The Reach will pay 25% more in taxes for the next 6 years to the crown. Every house, but the Tyrells would have to reduce their man at arms by 10% for the next 5 years. The crown will give a seat on the small Council as master of law to a Reach Lord for the next 12 years. I told Mace Tyrell he will need to send candidates to be interviewed to take that position. I'm not sure if it was the parchment or the fact that the Reach was just done fighting or the fact that Mace Tyrell was a complete fool but they agreed to every single demand and did not even try to negotiate. To my amazement. He had agreed to everything even though the negotiations were extremely unfavorable to the Reach. While writing down these terms I made them harsh because, I expected them to negotiate a more favorable deal. So, I started with a harsher penalty then I would expect them to accept. I was almost certain they were going to demand lower taxes than the penalties I've added, as well as lowering the years that they had to pay it. I expected them to reject paying the Stormlands for punitive damages. That is why I had it a bit unreasonable. I was surprised and disappointed in Mace as well as the Reach lords, who should have advised him to negotiate for a better term. Even with the compulsion I was expecting to give up on some of the demands. Before ending the negotiations, I did order them to take a quarter of their troops to guard the border with Dorne. By late afternoon all agreements were signed and duplicates were made. As I was going back to my men a rider from storm's end had arrived to inform me that Stannis is waiting to have an audience with me and expects to see me in an hour. I scoffed at the fool's audacity to summon me, after I lifted the siege on his castle. I gave the rider a copy of the agreement as well as an order from Jon that informs Stannis that he is being summoned to King's Landing. Before I continued to ride back towards my men. Stopping, I turn back to the messenger knowing this will piss Stannis off. I told the rider to tell Stannis that I am too busy to waste my time on him. That some of us has to actually fight, and win this war. We all don't have the luxury of hiding in the castle.
When I return to my encampment, I gave in order to gather my forces. While everyone was gathering I informed the Vale and Storm Lords that didn't come with us to the negotiation that the war is over. Thanking them for their service and letting them know that they may return to their homes or return back to the capital to assist Robert in securing his rule. I informed them that I would have liked to have a final feast with them to honor their sacrifice before we parted but that I had received time critical information about my aunt. On top of that I also still needed to deliver Princess Elia to her brothers and negotiate permanent peace with Dorne. I decided to take 200 light cavalry and mounted archers with me and ordered my grandfather to start moving the northern and Vale men back home. I then walked up to my uncle Rodrik and handed him a heavy sack of gold and ordered him to take some men and ride to Wyl. I told him that I will need three ships. Two that will travel all the way up to White Harbor. Another one that will go to Sunspear. Telling him to let the captains know that if they'll wait for me that I will give each one of them 50 more gold pieces.
Bab 4: Journey
The Stark by Dscot
I do not own this story.
CH 4
The journey through the terrain was challenging. The forests were dense, full of hidden paths and secret glades. Despite the harshness of the land, there was a rugged beauty that captivated the senses. The windswept plains with golden grasses waving in the breeze. The rocky cliffs and crags of the mountains were awe-inspiring, and the forests were alive with the songs of birds and the rustling of leaves.
As we continued our journey towards the southernmost part of Westeros, we encountered many different landscapes and terrains. The dense forest turns into rolling stony mountains. our carriages struggled to keep up with the pace. This is the worst terrain to try to drive a carriage through. We had to replace six wheels. Thank the old gods I was so insistent in bringing three spares for each wheel. We spent a half a day just digging one of the carriages out of a hole. Just as we were about to continue our journey, we were hailed by lord Beric Dondarrion and his forces as they were traveling back to Blackhaven. With the help of Lord Dondarrion and his men we were able to have an easier time, navigating through the region.
I had placed Theon Snow as my second in command and had him help me organize and lead the 200 men. He and Lord Dondarrion seem to have spent time together at the Stoney Sept. Each night, we would make camp and Lord Dondarrion and Theon would regale me with stories of his adventures. They spoke of battles won and lost, of comrades fallen and enemies vanquished. After traveling together for eight days, we finally arrived at Castle Blackhaven. I rode next to Lord Dondarrion as we crossed the bridge over the moat, and into the castle. I took my time admiring the black basalt walls that defended the castle. We only stayed the night and thanked Lord Dondarrion for his hospitality. I wished we could stay and enjoy his company longer but I explained how urgent it is that we find my aunt. Before heading out Lord Dondarrion was kind enough to top off our water and food supplies as well as giving me a more detailed maps of the area to make this journey, much smoother.
The last four days before we arrived at the prince's pass the landscape slowly began to change. The marshlands gave way to rocky terrain revealing a harsh and unforgiving landscape. As we were climbing down the side of the mountain and into the pass a storm hit us out of nowhere. The sky darkened and it poured down rain for almost an hour. Only through luck we were in a high area that we didn't need to worry about being washed away by flash flood. I order the men to make camp and at least wait a day before continuing to let the ground dry up again. Surprisingly by the end of the day most of the water had vanished into the ground or had evaporated.
Before I left Kings landing, I had carved some rune into five barrels that would work like dehumidifiers pulling water from the air so we will have fresh water to drink. They were not permanent and probably would last us another two months before they would start deteriorating the barrels. Already the water had a hint of a strange taste to it. The next leg of our journey was through the deserts of Dorne. During the day the heat was oppressive. After the first day of traveling through the princes Pass. I decided to take Lord Dondarrion's advice and travel during the night since the sky was clear, and the moon was full and it was giving off enough light for us to see our path. I was grateful for the extra food and more accurate maps that Lord Dondarrion had provided us.
What I did find interesting was several plants that we ran across in our journey, many of them mundane but useful. The greatest finds were on the day after the flash flood. I found several magical plant specimens that I recognized. I admit I have not been looking at the fauna and flora while traveling through Westeros. Because of the slow pace of our travels. Having to deal with the carriages and the terrain. We took long breaks. While sitting down one day and digging my fingers through the dirt I discovered Blackroot Dittany. Blackroot Dittany which has extremely potent healing sap in the roots. The stems of the plant when soaked in water for a day will turn the water toxic. It will kill off all bacteria and harmful parasites. If you let the water sit for around a month then boil the water, poison will dissipate and become harmless. You'll be left with pure clean drinking water that has a small healing effect.
I was able to uncover several more magical plants. I was extremely surprised to run across shriveled figs after the flash flood. I climbed back up the mountain to where the water had washed down from. I found a whole bunch of shriveled figs growing on the western side of the Red Mountains. I was surprised to find them in Dorne since they normally grow in cold environments.
Several days into our trip through the princes pass I was informed that the mountain was starting to smell that his broken arms and legs may be infected. I had my men set up an encampment while I work on a solution to keep them alive. It took me several days to figure out how to create this unholy healing concoction without the proper equipment. In the end I made a syrupy mixture using the sap of the Blackroot. I force the concoction down the mountain's throat. It will not fully heal his arms and legs but should get rid of the infection. They will be in extreme agony since part of the poison is still active. I believe it is non-life-threatening, and will wash out of their system in several hours, but during that period they will be in unbearable pain. I also used what was left in the pot to dose sir piggy.
Two nights after we continued our journey again, I was sitting in my tent looking over the maps. I've calculated how far we have traveled, and how far we still have to go. If I've read the map correctly. We should arrive at the tower of joy early in the afternoon the next day. Only two days before Ned should have arrived in canon. So, my aunt shouldn't have gone into labor. As pleased as I am with the situation of finding magical plants. I'm annoyed at how close we are to the canon timeline. I was hoping to have more time and even move her to Wly before she went into labor.
Just after mid-day my sentries were notified by the scouts that we had riders coming. A few minutes later Ned Stark rode into the camp followed by Howland Reed and of all people Roose Bolton. I groaned inwardly as I saw this moron and wondered what he's going to do to mess things up. He climbed off his horse and walked towards me angrily. I invited him into my tent to talk and rest. Once inside the tent he asked me why I abandoned him in King's Landing. He accused me of sneaking out of King's Landing.
I rolled my eyes and asked him if he was accusing me of sneaking 17,000 soldiers from three different kingdoms without being noticed. He looked away and flushed with embarrassment for how stupid that sounded. All along I was grinning inward to myself, because that is exactly what I did. I didn't want him hanging about potentially questioning everything I was doing. trying to bud in when he is not needed. So, I had placed a small compulsion on him and Robert to kind of forget about everything that's happening around them and just enjoy their time together. I also encouraged his morals to be loosened so he can go drinking and whoring with Robert without feeling guilty or worrying. Who knows we might get a Jon for Catelyn to hate and worry about.
Looking a little hurt and angry I explained that I tried to get his attention several times before leaving the Red Keep. Each time he was too busy to listen because he was off with his best friend or he was passed out in a tavern or a brothel.
He tried to change the subject again and brought up that he cross paths with Stennis and how he was angry that I showed him such disrespect. I then cut him off again and informed him that Stennis is being dramatic. I lifted the siege and saved him and his people's lives from starving. On top of that I negotiated for him to get a quarter million gold to help rebuild Storms End. When I found out about where aunt Lyanna was, I was more focused on that than having to deal with his power plays. I then told him to go find a place to sleep out of my tent since I do not have time to hear him whining and complaining. Ordering my bodyguard to escort him out.
Though I was annoyed to see Ned, what I was happy about was the fact that Bolton was here. I have been thinking of a way to get rid of that family and take possession of their land. I want to build in control a harbor in Stark land. While thinking about Bolton. I recalled seeing a Red Viper slithering across the sand about a day ago. From what I recall you would need to take the antivenom in the first ten minutes after being bitten. If you don't, you'll likely die. I decided that I would need to keep an eye out for another one.
Around midday, we could finally make out the tower of joy situated on a huge slab of stone at the base of the mountain. We slowly rode up the hill then dismounted near the rocky entrance to the tower.
Trusting Ned, I ordered my uncle to parlay with the king's guards while I organized my men in case the situation turned hostel. Getting the crossbowmen in good position, so that they can fire into the king's guard as well as having the spearman able to surround them, if hostility breaks out. If conflict breaks out, we need to take them out fast and to do that we would have to work as a unit. We also need to make sure they did not fall back to the tower. Knowing that if they get in the tower the three guards could hold us off for a good amount of time and cause a good number of casualties before we were able to route them out. We needed them to stay in the open, where are numbers would give us the advantage. I had ordered the cross bowman to focus on the sword of the morning first, before dealing with the other white cloaks.
After coordinating and positioning the spearman with Theon Snow I walked to where Sir Arthur Dane was talking to my uncle. I was not able to fully make out what Neds response to sir Arthur Dane was. Then my uncle drew his sword and rushed towards Arthur, followed by Howland Reed and Bolton. As I started to shout for everyone to stop, and to stand down I saw Arthur Dane get hit by multiple bolts. It seemed that my crossbowmen saw Ned charged the kings guard and believing that the negotiations have failed started to follow my orders by taking Sir Arthur out first. Seeing Arthur moving forward ignoring the impact of several arrows that hit him, each one deflected off of his armor. Finally, three arrows penetrating through his armor causing Arthur stumbling back. Two of the arrows penetrated close together in his lower chest. Having one of them lodged in his shoulder, piercing through the gap in his armor. Even with this injury Arthur was still able to deflect Ned's sword and push him back before another bolt landed in his neck. As Arthur started to fall. Lord Commander Gerold Hightower raising his shield and sword, charge forward to dispatch an off balanced Ned Stark. His strike was deflected by both a recovering Ned and Bolton who came to defend my uncle. I watched as Ser Oswell easily dodged Howland's sword swing before punching and knocking him to the ground. Before he could finish off Howland. He jerks back, as five arrows were shot at him. One was able to penetrate through his armor just below his arm pit. The other two ricocheted it off his armor. One off of his shoulder, the other deflected by the side of his helm. It was the last one that ended his life. It found its way past his helms face shield around his eyes and into his skull. I stood still watching the skirmish, and was shaken out of my thoughts, when my spearman charge past me to engage with Lord Commander Gerold Hightower. I watched as Ned even with the help of Bolton was being pushed back by Lord commander Hightower. In less in two minutes, the first of my spearman were able to engage with lord Hightower and with their help, Ned in Bolton was finally able to push him and started to slowly break through his defense. To my amazement, Arthur Dane started to push himself off the ground onto his knees before slowly standing up with an arrow still lodged in his neck. Arthur was able to dispatch three of my spearmen before turning so he could assist his commander. By then, five of the spearmen were able to surround Arthur. He was then pierced by one of my men from the side and another one got him from his back. At the same time Arthur was finally put down several of my spearman were able to outflank the Lord commander, and three of my men speared him through his back.
I limit I was a little frustrated with the outcome. I wanted to parlay with the Kings guard. I hadn't made my decision if I wish for them to be dead or not. I will admit most of my fascination was to do with Sir Arthur. Since I recall few positive feelings from him from the books in the movies, though not in any detail. Sighing, I let out my breath, realizing that perhaps this was the best ending to this solution. Knowing that there was no way that I'm going to have my Targaryen cousin ever be named King.
With seven of my bodyguards with me, I walk past Ned to the steps to tower entrance. As I walk past my spearman, ordering I ordered one of them to go collect the healers to deal with the wounded and dead. I also ordered the healers with knowledge on birthing to be order to come into the tower. Before I entered the tower, I also ordered the spearman to guard the entrance and not allow anyone not even my uncle access to the tower. Leaving three of my bodyguards with them at the entrance.
I started walking up the stairs I ignoring my uncles shouts to me and my guards to let him pass. Ignoring him I started to focus on what I will find at the top of the tower. I was anxious and worried since I haven't made my decision on what to do. I did like Lyanna and she was kind to me. Having her around wouldn't really be a hindrance to me. Her presence in Winterfell may actually be beneficial. There is also Jon it might be easier to have him die in childbirth. Though it would be nice to have a source of willingly given Targaryen blood to play with.
As I got to the entrance of the room at the top of the tower, I found it barricaded. Gesturing to my bodyguards, I had them, slamming their hammers against the door, splintering it. After a path was cleared I walked into the room I could see my aunt standing up, using the bed as a barricade, while holding a knife. Several servants were huddling in a corner, covering their heads with their hands.
Seeing her stand which is a good sign I think since that means she's not going through labor. I actually have no idea of anything to do with childbirth but I've been listening to stories when I had the time from the midwives that I brought. She seemed shocked, which turned into happiness when she saw me and got up and walked over to me to give me a hug. Before I knew it I realized that I had tears coming out of my eyes and I was actually really happy to see her. These emotions caught me by surprise. I knew I cared for her but I didn't realize how much. Panicking, I started to search my feelings and felt some relief knowing that as much as I care for her that if she stepped in my path I wouldn't hesitate to remove her. I would feel really bad and shitty but I wouldn't hesitate if I felt like she would stand between me and my ambitions.
Wiping the tears from my eyes she tried to pull me onto her lap while sitting down. Her belly was so big that I nearly fell off her lap having to brace myself with one of my legs so I didn't fall. Laughing, she had me sit next to her on the bed. Before we continued, I told her I needed to know about what happened to her. I asked her about any healer she has, and informed her I had vetted the ones that I have with me and would like them to look her over to make sure everything will be alright. She looked at me curiously commenting about how mature I've been acting. I blinked. This is the first time anyone has seen through my charm bracelet. I've been around her for more than a couple of minutes and usually when I start speaking, the compulsion on the bracelets makes people overlook my age.
She told me the story of how she didn't wish to marry Robert. How grandfather kept receiving letters from Ned and Jon Arryn encouraging the marriage and writing about all of Roberts' virtues. How grandfather still wanted his southern alliance even more than before. She was not happy with it, but was resigned until she met him at the tournament of Harrenhal. That most of the interactions she had with him he was drunk or getting drunk. How he would come up to her after crawling out of a tent of a camp follower still having the woman smell on him. He would make grand proclamation he wanted no other woman but her. When he was sober he would make promises after promises to her about how grand their life together will be. She seemed to think that he was more excited about becoming Ned's brother than actually marrying her.
Then she told me about the Knight of the laughing tree and how Prince Rhaegar and Sir Arthur Dane found her. How she listened to him sing how they ran into each other several more times at the tournament. How she felt being given the crown of beauty. How she's received several letters from him secretly sent to her. When he asked her to run away with him she willingly left. She told me about her marriage, and when she got the news about my father and my grandfather. They didn't hear about their death until almost two months after it happened. She was planning on going with Rhaegar, but had a really bad episode of mourning sickness. I got the feeling that she was racked with remorse and self-loathing. I reminded myself that she was a sheltered 14-year-old when meet, and started having feelings for Rhaegar. She was a lovesick 15-year-old who didn't fully comprehend the consequences of her actions when she ran away.
When I asked why, she didn't leave or send any letters to inform us that she ran away. she informed me that she was afraid that if she left a letter that it would be found before she could escape. She didn't believe that anyone would think that she was kidnapped since Benjen was with her helping her escape. She said she sent a letter to Riverrun addressed to my grandfather since she heard he was on the way to visit and negotiate with Hoster. That actually caught me by surprise. I know my father and grandfather went on a trip. I was under the impression they were going to the Vale to meet up with Lord Arryn and Ned. As well as finalizing the arrangements with Robert. I knew my father went ahead with a bunch of his friends and I guess it's possible that he would've passed by Riverrun. My grandfather Stark on the other hand I believe was going to take a boat from white harbor. They wouldn't be discussing marriage since Hoster without my compulsions, wouldn't marry his daughter to a second son. My father was married as much as he pretended he was not. On top of that I was his legal and recognized heir.
By then the midwives and the healers arrived. I got up and I introduced my aunt to the three ladies. Telling her that I had brought a wet nurse as well. She looked at me questioningly asking me why I would have brought them. I told her seriously that if she was kidnapped the likelihood of her having a child was high. I am happy that she is with child and there was no kidnapping. Again, she looked at me oddly. commenting again about how mature I am acting. That sort of freaked me out. Perhaps when I first arrived the magic may have not weaved into her mind since it has been active for such a long time but it should have sunk in by now. I would think something is wrong with my bracelet, but no one else seems to think that it was odd.
As I left the tower to go talk to my men. I started fiddling with my bracelet making sure the runes were not damaged and it still had power running through it. Everything seems to be correct. I can still feel the power flowing through it. I would have to examine it more carefully later but so far it looks like it should be working. Gathering my troops as well as my uncle, Howland and Lord Bolton I told my aunt's side of the story. Not leaving anything out during the discussion of Robert, many of my men were glaring at Ned. I was glad to see my whisper campaign to have him viewed less favorably in the North is working.
I know people will say why am I picking on him. Mostly I just do not trust him in any position of power that might affect me. He's a simple man who likes simple things. Normally that would be okay but not if he's responsible for the betterment of the people under his rule. For example, I don't believe he likes change even if it would improve the lives of the people of the North. I am not saying that Ned is stupid because he is rather smart and well educated for a second son. It is his notion on how the world should work. It was his belief that he taught to his kids that almost destroyed house Stark. I also know that deep inside I still resent my father and my grandfather. Though I am the legal Prince of the north there is always a possibility with Neds connection to Robert that he or his children might be able to successfully usurp me. I cannot have the chance that anyone in the north would actually support Ned over me. I also knew I could not have Ned named as my regent.
Status Power Mingguan
200+ Peringkat
Power 
0 Power
stone 
Komentar Paragraf