บท 7: Chapter 7: S1-E6: The King's Feast
Chapter Six: The King's Feast
When nighttime arrived, Geralt ventured out from his room as he'd hear the sound of laughter and music filling the air. Already the guests and people of Winterfell were heading for the Great Hall where the feast was being held. As he moved across the yard, Geralt noticed Jon who was off by the stables chatting with a man dressed in black leathers and cloak. The two seemed to be in a heated discussion, yet it soon ended as the man patted Jon on the shoulder before heading towards the feast hall.
Geralt decided to check up on Jon, hurrying over to him before noticing a very short figure step out from the shadows and also approach the Stark bastard. Nearing the two, he'd just hear a few words between the two.
"Your uncle's in the Night's Watch?" The figure said in a well-spoken manner.
"What are you doing back there?" Jon countered back, on guard at first before the figure revealed himself to be a dwarf of a man, dressed in fine leather clothes and waving a flask in one hand. Despite his oversized head, he had a handsome quality about his looks and his head had the recognizable golden color of a Lannister about it even in the low lighting.
"Preparing for the night with your family." The short man simply remarked, pacing over to a nearby fence post to lean up against before sipping his drink. "I've always wanted to see the wall." He started, keeping a casual demeanor while Jon kept a questioning look and was ready to speak again before noticing Geralt. The dwarf glanced at the Witcher, a curious look showing in his blue eyes as he got to see the man's white hair, pale scarred face and sharp cat like eyes. "Well now. The Wildling slayer himself, Geralt I believe yes?" He asked.
The Witcher nodded as he'd move to stand by Jon. "You'd be right. I take you're Tyrion Lannister, the lecherous 'imp' I've heard so much of." He remarked back. "Have to say…Arya was way off on your appearance. Missing the tail and horns."
The Lannister chuckled, shrugging at the remark. "Sadly I left my costume at Casterly Rock. Normally I bring it to such occasions just to embarrass my sister. Those days though are long past." He sarcastic manner. "Jokes aside, I didn't expect to meet you so soon. I thought you'd be sleeping the night away after your duel with the Hound."
At that point Jon looked to Geralt with a surprised look. "Wait, you battled against THE Hound?" He remarked. "Heard the man is a beast in battle and doesn't hesitate to fight dirty.
"Pretty much right. Kicked the shit out of me at one point. Anyway I'm fine, a little wine and rest got me through." Geralt reassured the two.
"So I take you two are going to the feast? Perhaps I may join with you. After all we'd make the quite the show among the tables. The dwarf, the bastard and cat eyed warrior."
Jon seemed annoyed with being titled as 'the bastard' yet Tyrion was quick to raise one hand up. "Sorry I meant no offense with that."
In the end Jon sighed and nodded. "None taken. Still I'm not sure I'll-"
"He will be going." Geralt interrupted, placing a firm hand on Jon's shoulder. "Bastard or not, he's a Stark and has a place there, even if it's at the lowest table."
Jon was silent, for the moment while Tyrion chuckled a bit as he moved towards the two. "Ah a man that understand things! He has a point Snow, don't feel shame for being a bastard, never forget about who you are. The world wouldn't forget. Wear it like armor and no one will be able hurt you with it!" Taking another sip from his flask, he'd shake it and shrug. "So then shall we go crash a feast?" Already the small man was off towards the feast hall while Jon and Geralt had a last moment.
"I know I promised but…" Jon started while Geralt pushed him lightly along towards the feast.
"What did I say about excuses?" Geralt remarked back. "Look if I could tangle with Westeros's most feared warrior, you can survive one night at your own family's feast."
Jon chuckled and shook his head. "Stubborn old man." The remark got a friendly jab to the side from the Witcher. "Fine then. Guess facing one's fears is food for oneself."
Soon the two caught up with Tyrion at the Great Hall doors, the guards opening them for the group. The place was completely different to the dinners Geralt had enjoyed over the last few months as every table was packed with people. Music, cheerful laughter and chatter filled the hall as the party was in full swing.
Eddard was not at the head table but off to the side talking with the man Jon had been talking to, which Geralt deduced was Ned's brother Benjen, First Ranger of the Watch. Already the Witcher wondered what the two were chatting over, no doubt the story the deserter Ranger had given, Jon's interest in joining the Watch and Geralt's interest searching beyond the Wall. For now he left them be, deciding he'd try talking with either man later tomorrow.
"Geralt! You crazy bastard! Up after dancing with the Hound!" The familiar voice of Graffin spoke out to the Witcher. The trio moved towards the guard's table where the man's group of friends sat about over roasted boar and mugs of ale. "I knew you were made of tough stuff, yet to survive the Hound is a rare thing." By then, Graffin noticed Jon and Tyrion, staring a bit at the dwarf. "Hey you're that Lannister fellow."
"Tyrion at your service." The dwarf introduced with a jesting bow before hoping up onto one bench seat and already getting a plate of meat for himself. "Geralt here has been kind enough to invite me along, so I hope you have no issue."
"Heh…never thought I'd be sharing a table with the Imp. Ah hells with it, no issue with it." He'd nod for Jon and Geralt to get a seat while his companions got plates cut meat passed over to the pair. "Good to see you with us Jon."
The Stark nodded, giving a small yet welcomed smile back as he'd cut into his plate of boar. "Thank Geralt for bringing me along. Thought he'd drag me here back at the yard."
"A little force can be quite convincing." Geralt chuckled before Jon gave a short elbow jab to the Witcher in annoyance.
"Blunt yet wise words friend!" Graffin laughed out before raising a mug. "Toast then to the Witcher! The White Wolf who clashed with the Hound!" Everyone raised up a mug and leaned in to clack them together, Tyrion having to stand on his bench seat to do so.
Time passed as the group chatted about, Tyrion being the most active as he focused on Geralt. The Witcher spend a good while sharing his half truthful story, having refined it further after studying more about the world. He'd go on to share the tale about what a Witcher on, even casually remarking about the monster slaying as the ale loosened in his tongue. Despite the fact he could drink the most toxic of potions and endure the deadliest poisons, booze still affected him like everything else.
Strangely though Tyrion seemed more fascinated and curious about Geralt's claims of monsters. "Can't remember the last time someone admitted to believing such things with such a dead serious look…while half drunk" The dwarf chuckled. "Yet you seem like no lying man Geralt, even if what you say is outlandish."
"Same could be said about dragons and generation long seasons." The Witcher countered back.
Tyrion paused, thinking some counter argument. "True…right another mug then!"
As the Lannister refilled his mug, Geralt took a sip from his. "So what were you saying about the Wall earlier? Not planning on joining the Watch are you?" The Witcher questioned.
"Gods no!" Tyrion laughed out. "I enjoy my role in life, being my family's amusing sideshow while I go off enjoying all the whores and finest drinks I desire…all on my father's gold of course."
"Quite the carefree career you have. I bet many envy your way of life." The Witcher chuckled while the dwarf a grandiose wave of his hand.
"Life is short Geralt. Too often men are focused on achieving fortune and power, even those with it already. I'm happy with my lot in life and plan to enjoy all the world's pleasures and see its many wonders." He declared to the group.
"So you seeing the Wall just to…for sightseeing? The Witcher questioned.
"It is one of the many wonders of our world yet…" Tyrion paused to think for a moment, tapping his fingers along his mug before a mischievous grin crossed his lips. Standing on his bench seat, he'd suddenly climbed onto the table quite agilely, nearly knocking a few plates and mugs doing so. "I do one amusing idea in mind. I plan to go up to the top, watch the sunset with the best wine I can find…and piss off the edge of it!" The group burst out in laughter at his crazy idea. "Bet that will give the Wildlings pause to near it!"
Jon shook his head in embarrassment, yet smirked in amusement as Tyrion gulping down his drink before returning for his seat. Geralt smirked, yet glancing at the head table where he could see Cersei eyeing the group, a distasteful look showing towards her noisy younger brother. Seemed the stories of the two have sour relations were true if that look meant anything. The woman however noticed the Witcher's gaze, giving a soft smile before looking to Catelyn who she quickly began to talk with.
"So what about you Witcher? From what I hear you plan to go to the Wall as well. Perhaps you can tag along with me. It surely make the journey more interesting with us sharing tales along the way." The dwarf offered.
Geralt thought for a moment. "Maybe. Haven't decided when or if I should go yet."
"I know I'll be heading up there once the King plans to leave." Jon quickly remarked. "Planning to join the Watch, work my up to being a Ranger."
The Lannister chuckled, shaking his head at Jon's plans. "Ah boy…you are making a rash choice there." Tyrion remarked.
"I've thought hard on this choice! Uncle says I'd fit in well at Castle Black." Jon argued back.
The dwarf chuckled at the remark as he'd stir mug about in one hand. "Matters if you enjoy the company of criminals and cowards. Trust me, you're better off here or seeing the world like me before giving up your freedom there."
Jon was silent on the matter as he'd sip at his ale, no doubt wondering why so many people kept warning him away from joining the Watch.
Smirking and shaking his head, Geralt looked over the party to see that Robert was about the crowds…and currently fondling up a comely servant girl gleefully. Just a glance at the main table and he could tell Cersei was not amused considering the cold look she had.
However Robert stopped his toying before noticing Geralt looked at him. "White haired one! Gah right, Geralt!" The King loudly called out. "Time we had that talk yes?"
Everyone at the table looked at Geralt, surprised at the King's request. The Witcher shrugged as he'd set his mug down and give a short wave to the group. "The majesty calls."
"Try to be respectful. From what I heard, Robert can have quite the temper." Tyrion warned before chatting with Graffin, seeming curious to know the full story of the soldier's first meeting with the Witcher.
"Best not keep the King waiting." Jon added, patting Geralt on the back. "And don't worry, not planning to run off while you away."
Geralt nodded before he'd leave the table and head towards Robert who shifted off from the crowded area to a more open spot off to the side. The large man found a loose chair to sit down, giving a sigh as he'd stretch out before taking a deep gulp from a large goblet.
"Ned told me a bit more about you. How you're some warrior monk type from far beyond the seas, chasing the future empresses for some empire, if I'm correct?" The man bluntly asked.
Geralt moved to lean back against a nearby pillar, giving a small shrug at the King's answer. "In simpler terms…yah pretty much."
"Heh I always prefer it that way, if you'll forgive me." Robert chuckled with a big grin. "Soldier's life does that to you. Never been one for formal matters that kingship shoves onto you." Yet he'd shake his head and give a small frown. "Bah but I'm focusing on me. Let's talk about you Geralt. I know you wish for my help to find your missing adopted daughter? You claim she perhaps beyond the Wall right?"
Geralt simply nodded. "Yes. It's my best guess that is where she'd be."
"Must be crazy or brave to go off there alone. Care to tell me why she'd do that?" Robert questioned.
"It's complicated."
"If you mean prophecies and fate…" Robert started, making Geralt give a surprised look. "Don't be take me for a fool Geralt. When I asked Ned he told me much about this Ciri. I'm not one to believe in such things…then again I never believed I'd be ruler of the Seven Kingdoms." He'd chuckle at the title, yet there seemed something…off with the tone. "So what do you want?"
"Resources and men to go beyond the Wall. Been studying the known maps and already have a chart of an expedition to follow. Should lead me to her or at least find her trail." Geralt calmly stated.
"Already quite prepared it seems…"The King muttered as he'd have one hand tap lightly at his goblet. "You seem to think we'd already be at an agreement. You may have done my kingdom a service, yet
Geralt's eyes narrowed sternly, yet Robert didn't flitch at the intimidating stare. "You're making a mistake." The Witcher started before the king spoke up again.
"And you think you can make demands from me." The man said sternly. "You're asking me to commit a fortune's worth on a suicidal mission to find a girl who may very well be dead. I understand your desperation Geralt, yet no but the Wildlings can survive beyond the Wall."
"Ciri's endured worse." The Witcher argued. "Yet leaving her alone endangers all, both your land and mine."
"That's another thing. I have to go off your word! I'm not a man of superstition as I said, so excuse me if I find this 'White Frost' that Ned described to be exaggerated at best." Robert pointed out sternly, yet he'd quickly compose himself. "That aside though, I like you because of your bluntness since few men are brave enough to do so. I respect you because you defended my lands from raiders from beyond the Wall. Yet trust is something you must personally earn." He'd clench one hand tightly, striking it at the arm rest of the chair. "So that is why I have an offer to make for you."
"Offer?" Geralt questioned.
"Recent events at King's Landing has many people tense. My Hand is dead and Ned is to be my replacement. He's the only man I truly trust, yet I can't rely on just him." He'd sip from his goblet, giving a refreshed sigh tasting the fine wine. "Yet you Geralt…I've never seen Ned supportive to anyone, much less an outsider like yourself. I can even tell that his family looks up to you…well…except Cat, yet the woman is tough to win over."
"And your point sire?"
"It's simple. Come with us to King's Land and serve alongside Eddard. Despite how the Seven Kingdoms look, there is a storm of conflict brewing. I can't share what may come…yet it could lead to war." Robert's eyes had a fierce gleam in them, almost an eagerness at the mention of conflict. "Dueling the Hound shows you're a masterful warrior and from what Luwin has told me you're as wise as any Maester. A rare and useful mix of skills, one that I can rely on."
Useful. Geralt hated when people said that about him. Made him feel like he was some tool. "So what are you offering then? Be you're enforcer and in exchange earn the support I need for my expedition?"
"Nah...I'm thinking possibly knighthood." The King boldly declared, making Geralt give a surprised look. "Hahah, surprised you there! I take past kings never offered such an opportunity?"
"I was in fact knighted once did by the queen of Rivia when I stepped in during a major battle. Although…I'm no longer under her service after certain circumstances." Geralt explained.
"Interesting…you'll have to share that tale another time." Robert muttered with a small nod before looking back at the Witcher. "Yet I'm not jesting with you Geralt. Come serve at my court in King's Landing and earn my full trust. In due time I'll can provide everything you'll need to go on your expedition beyond the wall."
Geralt silently studied the King, trying to get idea of his intentions. Yet the man's gaze was steadfast, stubbornly hiding any inner emotions. "Wouldn't the Lannister's and other nobility take issue with you accepting a low born sell sword to your court?" The Witcher questioned.
"Hah! If anything my extended family are interested in you. They may be stuck up at times, yet they know when an even a low born has worth. The Hound and his family are an example of that. Also fuck what the rest of the nobility think! I'm the damn King and I decide who's worth serving me or not!" The fat king laughed out.
It was hard to deny that Robert cared little for tradition on this matter, hinting how the man favored talent over noble standing. It was obvious he wanted him as an ally, a wild card for whatever events were playing out in the continent's capital. "I'm not one to get involved in politics and intrigue. It has never worked well for me."
"I understand your hesitation Geralt. Yet I'm a patient man, so no need for you to accept my offer now." Robert quickly answered back. "Just think this over. After all, allying with me can do more then find your lost daughter. Think of the power and wealth you can gain as well."
Geralt was silent, hands clenching slightly at how the man was trying to bribe him at this point. He hated how men like him thought gold and status could win him over. Yet he'd calm him, holding back any spiteful words before speaking back. "I'll think about it my lord." He said, voice calm yet having a cold hint to it, one which Robert noted.
By that point the king would stand up fully from his seat, showing off just how tall he was as he stared eye to eye with Geralt. "I'd like your answer within the week. By that point we will be leaving for the capital." He'd hold out one large hand, not breaking the deadlock stare with the Witcher. "Consider my offer well. It's one that is not lightly refused."
Geralt looked to the king's hand before grasping it, Robert's grip becoming iron strong as the two shook. Despite being overweight, the man had a shocking hidden strength about him. Yet Geralt didn't yield, his own grasp matching up to the king's. "Enjoy the feast King Robert. I think I've had my fill for tonight." At last the two let go of each other's hand before the Witcher gave a short nod to the king. Turning about, he walked away through the crowd. Jon and Tyrion saw him hurry by, even calling out to him, yet Geralt ignored the two as he left the hall.
Robert growled lowly as he flexed his hand, feeling the soreness left from their short grapple. "Just as stubborn as Ned." He muttered, his frown turning to a small smirk before he'd head back to rejoin the feast. He still had that servant girl on his mind and he had no plans on letting her slip away!
…
Outside, Geralt moved back for his room, thinking deeply over tonight's events. In the end it came down to a simple aspect…everyone wanted to use him for their own ends. Joffrey saw him as some gladiator to amuse him. Ned saw him as a sympathetic man willing to help for an honorable cause. King Robert saw him as a tool to further whatever political plans he had in mind.
"Different world…same selfish motives." Geralt muttered to himself as he'd stop at the small yard before the Great Hall. Taking a deep breath of cold fresh air to clear his head, he'd clear someone approaching him from behind, making him glance about.
"You…Did the King send you to double his offer?" Geralt offered, making the blond haired man chuckle out in amusement.
"No, although I now wonder what he did try to buy you off with now that you mentioned it." Jaime Lannister asked in a jesting manner. "The King is known for throwing quite the lavish gifts to win over even the most troublesome of people."
Jaime wasn't in his King's Guard armor, wearing instead fine tanned leather and gold threaded outfit, a quite dashing one considering its custom design. "I see you and Robert chatted at long last. From the way he looked you must have angered him as well." The dashing royal guard said in a formal yet friendly manner.
"I do that often to everyone. Kings, nobles and their fancy guards." Geralt muttered back as he moved for the gate door.
The Lannister laughed out at how Geralt rudely dismissed him, yet didn't back down. "My…they weren't joking about you. Old wolf is a fitting title considering those gruff manners." Jaime chuckled, much to the Witcher's annoyance.
"Old Wolf?" Geralt grumbled, wondering who came up with the name. "Pretty boring name considering."
"I fitting nickname though. Scarred face, white hair and those strange eyes…very wolfish. Even the way you fight matches. Fast yet fierce." Jaime remarked, although his tone had a hint of respect mentioning how Geralt fought. "Still didn't stop you from taking a beating from what I saw."
"Match was a draw last I checked. Had Sandor on his ass in the end." Geralt remarked back.
Jaime nodded his head in agreement. "Ah yes you did…though people say you cheated." He'd pace around to be in front of the Witcher, getting between him and the gate out. "Everyone baffled at how you knocked him down with little more than one hand. Man is nearly seven feet tall after all and decked in heavy armor. Bet it take Robert in his prime to knock him down with a single strike to the chest."
Geralt shrugged, keeping that cold stare towards the Lannister. "Maybe I just spooked him, made him over reacted and just trip over himself." He simply stated back.
"Possible." Jaime said, yet witty hinted in those eyes showed his doubt as he'd step closer, although Geralt didn't back off. "Yet perhaps when you're cornered like that again you may just be desperate enough to try that move again." The Lannister have one hand reach forward to give a mocking prod at Geralt's chest…a big mistake.
At this point the Witcher's considerable patience was thin as his right hand moved lightning fast, grabbing Jaime's wrist roughly. The knight's expression quickly shifted from confident to tense as he locked gazes with Geralt, seeing frustration in them. If anything his gaze showed true shock, unsure how Geralt had moved so fast in just the blink of an eye.
"Don't you have a half drunk king to babysit? Last I checked he was fondling some girl right in front of his dear wife." Geralt remarked, voice low and almost growl like while his grip loosened slightly after a long moment.
Jaime was silent for a long moment before he'd force his arm back to free himself from the Witcher, rubbing at the sore spot and flexing his hand. "You have a point. Rather not have the King embarrass himself in front of everyone, especially my sister." He calmly stated before walking around the Witcher and back towards the Great Hall to rejoin the feast. "Enjoy your rest Witcher. Remember that I'll be keeping an eye on you." He added before entering the bustling hall.
"Smug bastard…" Geralt muttered to himself. If anything he'd have to watch on for that one. While overconfident like Theon, Jaime obviously had a sharp eye to have noticed Geralt using a Sign in close quarters. Last he needed was someone learning about the magical skills he had been keeping hidden. Returning Guest House and to his room, Geralt drop onto the large bed, sighing as the ale and bothersome conversations lingered in his head made his head throb. "Guh…now I remember why I hate feasts and parties." With that said, he'd shift to reach for his pack.
Normally he saved White Honey when he over used his more toxic potions, yet he always found a light sip of the stuff to be a potent hangover cure. The sweet mixture didn't mix well with the alcohol aftertaste, yet swallowing it down clearing the burning feeling in his throat and settling his stomach. Sighing, he'd shift to lay on his back before closing his eyes, trying to shut out the pestering thoughts that filled his mind.
Notice: A shorter chapter, yet I feel it is needed considering. Have no worries though another chapter will be coming out this week, maybe even the same day as this chapter! Overall I hope you liked Geralt's first real chat with Robert and Jaime. Please share your reactions and thoughts be it through review or PMs!
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