Chapter 17 - Chapter 16: A Royal Visit Part Two

Arya ran to the old Tower. She noticed Nymeria and Summer sitting close to the building, both wolves were looking up. She followed their gaze and saw that Bran had scaled the walls. He was really high up and was looking at something through the top window of the tower. Suddenly both direwolves started to growl but kept their eyes trained on Bran. She took a few steps to reach the curved wall of the tower and petted Nymeria to get her to calm down. Arya strained her neck to look up at Bran and noticed someone else was up there. She immediately recognized the blond head of Jaime Lannister, the Queen's brother that peeked out of the window. Ser Jaime scanned the environment but he failed to notice her, probably because she was standing directly beneath him. She witnessed how Ser Jaime put his hand on Bran's chest. Bran looked down at her clearly frightened. The enormity of the situation suddenly struck her. Arya screamed for all she was worth.

A few servants, who were working close by dropped what they were doing and ran up to Arya. She pointed toward Bran who was now unsteadily descending. The harness attached with rope to the iron climbing hooks had saved him twice already, once when Ser Jaime had pushed him from the window sill and again when his foot had slipped in his first moments of panic. Jaime Lannister's head had disappeared. Her little brother, normally so quick and agile was crying and shaking. Even though he was using his new tools, he still had trouble coming down.

Rodrik Cassel arrived on the scene quickly followed by Catelyn Stark.

"He pushed Bran!" Arya shouted at her mother while pointing to Bran who was almost halfway down by now. "He pushed Bran, and he would have fallen but then he dangled from Jon's rope and could grab hold of a hook. He would have …," she had her arms around her mother's waist. "Please help him. Keep him safe." She pleaded. Now that help had arrived, Arya started to shake as well. Nymeria left her position at the base of the tower to nuzzle Arya in an effort to comfort her. Arya petted his pelt in thanks and calmed down somewhat. Summer still hadn't moved a single step, the wolf's eyes never leaving Bran. The direwolf was barking to the rhythm of Bran's movements as if to encourage him to keep going.

One of the first servants on the scene had immediately fetched a few bales of straw. "Do not worry Lady Arya, he is not that high up anymore. And if he falls, the straw will help break his fall."

They all kept a watchful eye on Bran and saw that the boy had somehow calmed down enough to descend slowly but surely.

After assessing that Bran's situation was under control, Rodrik Cassel ran inside the tower. He wanted to get to the bottom of this. Who would want to push Bran? However he did not doubt for a single moment that Arya Stark had seen something and quickly scaled the stairs.

He wasn't prepared for the sight that met him when he reached the chamber at the top of the tower and opened the old door. Jaime Lannister was there in the middle of the room in his shirt and breeches.'Didn't the Kingsguard join the hunt?'

Ser Jaime had his arms around his sister who was weeping in his arms. Her hair was dishevelled, her robe was open. He saw clothes lying on the ground. And now that his brain made the connection he smelled it as well, the distinct odour left after a coupling. 'But they were brother and sister, twins even?' He looked as startled as they did when they spotted him. Cassel didn't say a word but left the room securing the latch on the door from the outside. They wouldn't go anywhere for now. His mind was in turmoil. He realised that this would not end well.

When he came down he noticed a few more servants had gathered. He signalled two Stark houseguards. "Barricade the entrance to the tower and stand guard. Nobody is allowed to leave or enter this building until Lord Stark or I say so. Do not heed anyone else, not even an order from the Kingsguard or from the King himself. You are under orders of the Hand of the King."

He turned to a third Stark guard. "Gawen, take a fast horse and fetch Lord Stark. He should come at once. Just tell him it is a personal family emergency. Try not to disrupt the hunt. Get Lord Stark to come back alone. Make haste man!"

Cassel surveyed the situation in the yard in front of the tower. Bran's harness and rope were lying on the ground and the boy was crying in his mother's arms, with his direwolf glued to his side. He quickly went over to the small group of servants, thanked them for their assistance in getting Bran safely down and sent them on their way, reminding them that Lord Stark appreciated discretion in all matters concerning his family. He was glad he recognised them all and knew they were loyal subjects of House Stark without exception. This was a catastrophe in the making. Best keep it contained as much as possible until Lord Stark decided how to deal with it. He heard Bran trying to speak to his mother and focused his hearing to find out how much the boy had seen and understood.

"They were doing something strange mama, and then," he sniffled, "and then the Queen yelled that I saw them and then…" His sentences were interrupted by his sobbing but the need to tell his mother what had happened to him soon won it from his emotions.

"And then she looked ugly and said that I would tell and then Ser Jaime looked really strange at me and then he came over to the window and then he grabbed my shirt and then…" This time the boy paused a moment to catch his breath. "And then he put his hand flat on my chest and then he said something but I can't remember what and then he pushed me. I was so scared mama. I could hear Arya yell and then I dangled in the air and then I remembered I was wearing the harness. I was so scared mama. I almost couldn't get down. But then Summer calmed me down. I would have fallen if I had not used my new harness." Having gotten everything out that he wanted to say he started to sob again.

Catelyn hugged Bran and tried to comfort him but the sobbing only intensified.

"Will Bran be okay mother?" Arya was pulling at her dress. Her usually so brazen girl still looked really upset. "Why did Ser Jaime push Bran mother? Didn't he realise how high up my brother was. He could have died."

"Shhh Arya. Father will take care of everything. And Bran is okay, he is safe now. You see," she pointed at the guards and the locked door, "Ser Jaime Lannister cannot leave the tower. They have locked him inside. Father will keep you all safe. Now I want us all to go inside and gather in my room. And Arya you are not allowed to tell anyone you saw Ser Jaime. Let father decide what he wants to tell or keep a secret."

Rodrik Cassel had joined her now and they exchanged a few meaningful gestures and glances. The man gently took Bran from her and together they hurried toward the castle.

Lady Catelyn was the first to enter the courtyard dragging Arya along. Rodrik Cassel was carrying Bran who had his faced buried in the man's chest. She motioned Lady Brienne to follow her with her children and called for Myrcella and Tommen to join them as well.

***

Rodrik Cassel waited for his Lord enter throught the gates and reign in his horse. Clearly Lord Stark had raced all the way here. The horse was lathered in sweat. Lord Stark's hair was dishevelled and his eyes were wild with worry.

"What happened, Cassel? Gawen wouldn't say a word. Only that it was a family emergency and that I should make haste."

Cassel looked around and led his Lord to a secluded corner in the courtyard. "Quite a mess, my Lord. Bran scaled the old tower and witnessed Queen Cersei and Ser Jaime coupling when he reached the top window. Jaime Lannister attempted to protect their secret by pushing your son from the tower. Luckily the boy was wearing his climbing harness and didn't fall all the way down. Arya happened to be looking for him and witnessed the whole thing. Her scream alerted enough witnesses to prevent him from making a second attempt to silence the boy forever. I have taken the liberty to lock the Lannister twins in the old Tower for now. I think nobody knows they are there. The Queen is supposed to be on bedrest in her chambers with her handmaids and everyone here presumes the Kingslayer is with the hunting party. Now I can truthfully say I am very glad I was ordered to stay behind to guard your family, My Lord. I have seen to it that all your children, including Tommen and Myrcella are safe inside the castle. I do not think the smallfolk that came running when Arya screamed caught a glimpse of Ser Jaime and I ordered them in your name not to gossip about what happened to Bran. What shall we do now?"

Ned looked really pale and his eyes sought the ill-fated window of the old tower. "They are locked inside and the guards know what to do?"

"Yes, my Lord. Both the door upstairs and the main entrance are barricaded. I have two loyal men standing guard outside." He looked at his Lord expecting further orders.

"You handled that well. The situation out here seems under control. Now I need to talk to my wife and see my children first. Get someone to fetch Brienne of Tarth and Loras Tyrell, neither of them joined the hunt and will be close by. I want to see to them as soon as I have spoken with my wife. Ask Lord Umber to help us later today. He brought enough men and we may need them to help us counter possible revolts of the Kingsguards and the other royal guards when they return and somehow get wind of what happened here. You can explain the entire situation to the Greatjon but ask him to be discreet for now. Tell him I especially requested his help. Do you happen to know where Lord Tyrion Lannister is? He did not join the hunt either. If you find him, keep him away from the old tower by all means. On second thought, as soon as I have time, I will want to speak to him as well. So bring him to my solar. And Cassel, thanks. You have once more proven you are my right hand man. I will not forget this."

Lord Stark didn't wait to see Cassel's reaction and went in search of his wife. She had just left the children in the nursery under the care and supervision of their nanny and had ordered two houseguards to guard the room. She looked relieved to see her husband and followed him to their bedroom.

"What a mess, Catelyn." He exclaimed as soon as the door was firmly closed. "This was not how we planned to expose the royal children. It is way too early. Dammit, why was Bran even up there? Didn't I tell you of the premonition? He was not allowed to climb as long as the King was staying with us." He admonished her with a disapproving scowl on his face. He paused trying to calm his mind. This was not the time for casting the blame. He should focus his energy on finding a solution for now. He took a few deep breaths. When he felt he could be civil once more he continued interrogating his wife.

"Where are Tommen and Myrcella? What do they know about what happened? We need to keep them safe from King Robert's wrath. Best get them to the room with Prince Renly or do you have a better idea?"

Catelyn wrung her hands. "They do not know what happened. They only know Bran almost fell and was really upset about it. I am very sure they have neither heard nor seen anything. We must not scare them. Why not keep them in my quarters? They will be more comfortable here than in that little room with Prince Renly. Nobody will suspect that they are staying in my private quarters. I can sleep in your room tonight."

"That is a possibility. Let me think on that some more. I plan on involving Lady Brienne and Loras Tyrell. They can help guard the royal children. They are both honourable to a fault and will want to safeguard these innocent children. If we clearly show them that we are the ones trying to prevent the royal entourage from punishing three innocent children, we are one step closer to assure their alliance to our cause. Unless you think they will not be sympathetic to the plight of exposed royal bastards?"

"Lady Brienne will choose to protect them without a doubt. She has more honour in her little toe than the average knight in his entire body. She will respect you even more for wanting to safeguard Tommen and Myrcella. And Loras Tyrell, well as long as you help Prince Renly, that boy will worship the ground you walk on."

She heard a sound coming from the window and got a bit nervous. "Can I go now and bring the royal children here before someone belonging to the hunting party gets curious about the reason you left and sends a scout? I'll do my best to make them comfortable and keep them away from the gossip."

"Okay, you can bring them here. I will make sure to keep the King as calm as possible. The Gods know how." He left the room and called for Cassel. "Did you find the lady Brienne and Loras Tyrell?" Seeing his master at arms nod he continued. "Ask them to come to my solar. Tell them it is urgent. I also want you to come and get me the moment the King enters the courtyard. No matter what orders the King might issue, you will come here first. Do you understand? See to it that ample guards are posted around the old tower but make them blend into the environment somehow. Do you have enough men to handle all that?"

"Yes my Lord. Consider it done."

Ned took a moment to think about the possible repercussions to Jon and his cause now that probably both Ser Jaime and Prince Renly were headed for the Wall where they all knew by now about the existence of two real life fire breathing dragons. He startled when he heard a knock at the door. He gave permission to enter and invited Lady Brienne of Tarth and Loras Tyrell to sit down.

Loras didn't hesitate and used this opportunity to thank him once more for what he had done for Renly. Ned just acknowledged his words with a nod and addressed both of them.

"Where have you both been today? Have you been outside?"

He was astonished to see a blush appear on both their faces.

"We visited Prince Renly just now, my Lord." Lady Brienne replied honestly. "The guard assured me we had your permission and Loras took advantage of the fact that the King didn't allow him to join the hunt and was with him the entire time. I joined him as soon as all the children were safely inside. Please let me express my thanks to you as well."

"You have not heard what exactly happened outside earlier today then?" Ned ignored her thanks, impatient to get to the point and have this issue handled. He still needed to have a long talk with Lord Tyrion before the King returned.

"Lady Brienne told me Bran was upset about some kind of accident but nobody got hurt." Loras Tyrell was quick to answer and Lady Brienne nodded silently a curious look appearing in her eyes now that the strange behaviour of Lady Catelyn earlier took on more importance combined with this strange summons by the Lord of Winterfell.

"Well, something happened and I need your help. I need your word of honour that you will do as I tell you and if somebody else would contradict my orders you will not act upon them until you have taken it up with me first. Not even King Robert can overrule them. Do you understand? "

"You will not ask anything that might bring us dishonour?" Lady Brienne would not sacrifice her integrity.

"Quite the opposite actually. I want to ask you to perform a most honourable task. I need your help to protect the lives of innocent children." He then proceeded to explain exactly what had happened and what he needed them to do."

"Why us, my Lord?"

"Just in case King Robert does not heed my words and tries to harm Cersei's children. He will not suspect you of guarding them. He will follow my houseguards and my family members."

"Why would you believe the King would harm these three children when the culprits are locked up already?"

"He's done it before when he condoned the brutal murder of the Targaryen royal children." Ned couldn't keep the bitterness from his voice. He realised he had betrayed himself when he saw their stricken faces.

"My Lord Stark?" Brienne looked perplexed.

"I'm sorry. I am just overcome by the situation. I am the father of five children whom I love dearly. I cannot stand to let a child suffer for things they have no control over. Even if that means I have to disobey my King should he try to harm Queen Cersei's illegitimate children in a first fit of temper." He chastised himself for slipping out of his role.

"Your honour is praised throughout the Seven Kingdoms, my Lord. Now I understand why. I will serve you without question the next time you have a task for me." Lady Brienne solemnly pledged.

'You can only do right by one King and if you are not confused where your loyalties lie, then your path and conscience are clear.' Ned repeated the mantra in his head once more. If only Jon could stake his claim already. Ned was getting tired of this mummery.

When the pair left to attend to their new duties, Cassel led Tyrion Lannister to his Lord's solar. He had found the dwarf in Winterfell's library, engrossed in a thick book, a cup filled to the brim with wine and a half empty pitcher next to him.

Ned sighed and steeled himself for a delicate negotiation. "Sit down Lord Tyrion. We have a lot to discuss."

***

"I'll have his head. I'll have her head. Dammit Ned, Varys told me there were rumours but a man doesn't want to believe something like that. What do I do now? Where do I go from here? I'll be the laughingstock of the Seven Kingdoms."

Ned had convinced the King to discuss the situation in the privacy of the chambers Robert had been assigned for the duration of his visit. Before he started to explain the situation to him, he had made sure that the King was comfortably seated on his bed and he had been plying the man with ale the entire time they were talking. It had been dark outside already when the royal party finally returned from the hunt. The King had been in a bad mood because they hadn't shot anything significant after his friend had left them never to return to the hunting party again.

"Do not decide anything hasty, your Grace, Robert I mean. Let's think on this and look at all the options and repercussions. If you want, I will give you my best advice tomorrow when I have had time to look at all the angles." Ned filled the King's cup once more and tried to get him to retire.

"I do not want to lay eyes on the bitch ever again. The whore can burn in hell for all I care and take her incestuous spawn with her. What a mess Ned. Why did Lyanna have to die? I would have had such beautiful black haired children with her. The King was sobbing openly now. Ned had tried to get him so drunk so he would doze off but apparently years of drinking had made the man highly resistant to alcohol. Although the King had drunk an awful lot, he still wasn't intoxicated enough to be rendered unconscious.

"Get some rest your Grace. I will have a solution for you in the morning, one that will not make you a laughingstock. Do not forget you are their King. You control their fate. People will still kneel for you and follow your orders. And nothing will prevent you from taking a new wife and having lots of legitimate heirs. Just let me handle it. I am your Hand. It is my duty."

"What would I do without you, Ned? I am glad you are here with me and not old stern Lord Arryn who would have somehow made me believe that this was all my doing. You should have come to King's Landing to rule beside me years ago. All right, I will listen to you for now and get some rest. My head feels like bursting anyway. And I will hear your proposals tomorrow but mind you, I will make the final decision. You are too soft-hearted sometimes, Ned. A ruler must be ruthless at times."

"I'll consider that when I formulate possible solutions, Robert. Now get some rest."

The King finally complied and was asleep almost before his head had touched the furs. Ned contemplated the inert body. Where had it all gone wrong? What had happened to the exuberant child that grew up alongside him at the Eyrie? How could that kind boy have become this lazy corpulent drunk that only cared about his own pleasures and did not give a damn about the lives of his subjects? Robert hadn't even once enquired after the well-being of Benjen Stark or any of the Lords of the North that fought beside him on more than one occasion. This last thought somewhat eased the knot that was prominently present in his stomach since he had accepted the position as Hand of King Robert.

***

The next morning not many people were present in the Great Hall to break their fast. The Queen had been brought to her chambers late last night and was a virtual prisoner there. They had decided to keep Jaime Lannister locked up in the old tower for now. The King was still sleeping. Lord Stark had barely slept and was already at work. He needed to put everything in place for the contingency plan he had devised with Tyrion Lannister yesterday afternoon.

Lady Brienne was present in the great hall, breaking her fast in company of Sansa and Arya. Robb Stark and Edric Dayne sat at the same table facing them. She had excused the absence of Loras Tyrell stating that Lord Eddard Stark had given him an early assignment. Suddenly there was some commotion at the door and Prince Joffrey burst into the room. The two Stark houseguards that had wanted to keep him from entering shot Robb an apologetic look.

"Where is my father?" he shouted. "I need to speak to the King at once on business that cannot be delayed. Where is he?"

Robb slowly rose from his chair and addressed the Prince. "Prince Joffrey, the King has not left his chambers yet. We suppose he will break his fast in his room. The Kingsguard can inform you when he is willing to allow you an audience." Robb was surprised that Prince Joffrey was free to roam the castle. Late Last night his father had come to his room and had told him what had happened. Robb was sure his father had mentioned that the Lannister twins and the royal children were under guard. Perhaps his father had forgotten to assign guards to the former Crown Prince when the latter returned from the hunt.

Prince Joffrey studied everyone seated at the head table with barely concealed disdain. Then he turned around and left without uttering another word.

***

"Lord Stark, you are needed in the King's chambers at once." Ned looked up to see a distressed Ser Arys Oakheart standing in the doorway of his solar. He immediately rose from is chair and circled his desk. "Gods, Ser Arys, what has happened. Is the King all right?"

"He is, Lord Hand, but in great need of advice. Please follow me." Ser Arys looked really pale and Ned was certain something grave had happened. He surmised he would not learn what it was before he heard it from the King himself. He prayed that Tommen and Myrcella were still safe in his wife's room and hurried after the Kingsguard to the King's quarters.

The first thing his eyes noticed was a body covered by a white cloth on the ground next to the King's bed. The single red stain on the otherwise pristine material was growing larger under his stare. He noticed Ser Meryn was not wearing his white cloak. King Robert was standing at the other side of the room. Two servants were helping him dress as if it was just a normal day. Ned cleared his throat. "Your Grace?"

"Ah Ned, you're here. Now you will see what I mean when I say leniency gets you nowhere. He gestured to the corpse on the ground. That bitch's spawn tried to murder me in my sleep. Show it to him, Ser Meryn."

The knight stepped closer and handed Ned a tiny scroll. It was a message from Cersei. It stated that King Robert was planning to declare her a traitor and would disinherit Joffrey, perhaps even have him murdered. She urged her son to kill the King without delay and claim the throne for himself before his father could give the order.

Ned looked at the body. "This is Prince Joffrey? Is he dead?"

"That was the assassin Joffrey Waters." The King corrected his Hand's statement. "Ser Meryn saved my life by stabbing him in the back. We shouldn't have delayed, Ned. We need to punish the culprits now before the Lannisters revolt. They won't stay ignorant for long now that the twins as well as the Crown Prince will be missing."

Ned instructed the Kingsguard to remove the body from the room. "For now, just put his body in the antechamber. We will bring him to his own room and summon the Maester when we've debated how to handle the situation." Ser Meryn and Ser Arys needed no further encouragement. They lifted the body, keeping it covered with the white cloak.

The King watched with cold emotionless eyes as his wife's bastard was carried away. "What miraculous solution have you come up with to rescue my reputation and punish the culprits?" His voice was icy calm.

"Your Grace, let me start by apologising for not putting sufficient guards on Joffrey Waters. I will find out how he was able to leave his chambers."

The King waved his words away, impatient to hear how his Hand would make this all go away. "Never mind that now, I want to hear your solutions."

Ned took a deep breath and hoped to get his tone just right, not too pleading, but no too commanding either. It would have to be the King's decision.

"First I will tell you the story we will spread throughout the realm and next what I propose what we can really do. Will you try to stay patient enough and listen until I have finished explaining?"

The King stayed silent but his entire demeanour warned Ned he best got on with it.

"We will tell the realm that Prince Joffrey has fallen ill and died. It appears he suffered from the same hereditary affliction as his grandfather, Lord Tywin Lannister. Since there is a distinct possibility that the Queen's other children also carry the disease, you have discussed this tragic discovery with your wife. For the good of the realm, Queen Cersei has agreed to the immediate annulment of your marriage and the removal of her children from the line of the succession. You will take a new Queen who can bare you several healthy children as soon as the High Septon has granted you an annulment."

Ned had only slightly adapted the story he had devised late last night. He had intended Cersei to be the one inflicted by the imaginary disease. He studied the King and saw him struggle to keep his composure. A myriad of emotions flittered across the man's face. At first the King seemed intrigued but this soon changed to frustration and now he just looked angry.

"Too lenient, Ned. I warned you dammit! Is that all you can come up with?" He frowned.

"This is just the story we will present to the realm, your Grace." Ned tried to stay calm. "That way you will not be known as the King who was cuckolded. It is an acceptable reason to annul your marriage without delay. I suggest we imprison Cersei Lannister on Bear Island. That is the most northern island on the west coast of my Kingdom. You surely recall it is ruled by Lady Mormont. There is no way the former Queen can charm her way out of there. The Mormonts are my most loyal subjects. The island is isolated and cold and very far from the Crownlands. She will be afforded only the barest necessities. It will be a harsh punishment for her, your Grace."

He took a deep breath and addressed the most delicate issue. "I have taken the liberty to discuss the children's fate with Tyrion Lannister yesterday evening. He is prepared to take them with him to Casterly Rock. They relinquish the Baratheon name of course and sign away all rights to the Iron Throne. In exchange for their lives, Lord Tyrion vows he will not allow them to leave the Rock unless a royal decree lifts this banishment. If you agree to this, he will forfeit every loan Tywin Lannister has offered the Crown. He will leave for the Rock as soon as you permit it."

King Robert's frown had only grown deeper while Ned talked. "That story you've woven lets her fucking twin brother of the hook. Unacceptable Ned!"

"You can punish him for treason, your Grace. Pretend you gave him a trial behind closed doors and condemn him to the Wall. A King doesn't need to provide more details. The situation at the Wall is very dire. Every support is welcomed. I know the Lord Commander personally and will ask him not to allow Jaime Lannister any privileges. I will make sure that he is assigned to the rangers and will be on the front lines of every mission beyond the Wall. On the off chance that he survives the next few years, he will lead a very harsh life, your Grace."

"I will think on it Ned. I still feel they are getting away too easily."

"Not necessarily, Robert. What would you choose if you were Cersei? A quick death or being kept alive against your will isolated in the North, separated from your children and stripped of all power and wealth. She has been pampered all her life. The same goes for Ser Jaime, except he will have the possibility to get himself killed at the first opportunity beyond the Wall if he can't cope with his harsh punishment." Ned did his best to convince his former friend.

"As I said, I will think on it. The removal of the incestuous bastards from the line of succession must be ironclad, Ned. It can't contain any loopholes."

"The moment your marriage is annulled, their claim is null and void. The written statement is only to support our story that they relinquish their right voluntarily. But I will do as you order and present my draft to my maester and have it checked later on by the Grand Maester as well.

I will make sure they will never be the ones to threaten your reign, Robert." Ned silently repeated his mantra once more in his head. If anyone had mentioned to him eighteen years ago how duplicitous he would become, he would have challenged the man to a duel for such an enormous insult.

"I will want to read it as well. That doesn't mean I have decided to accept your solution, mind you. Where are the little bastards now?" Robert's recalcitrant tone interrupted Ned's musings.

"Tommen and Myrcella are safe and in the custody of Lord Tyrion. I will not apologise for taking steps to protect them, Robert. You knew my feelings regarding a similar situation and made me your Hand regardless. If you were thinking this favour you've shown me would change my disposition toward innocent children and are disappointed that this is not the case, I am willing to resign as your Hand this instant. Tommen and Myrcella are not to blame for anything. I will not let any harm come to them if I can help it." He kept his voice firm so Robert would understand that there was no chance he would ever relent. He was glad he had finished the last travel arrangements before he had been summoned by Robert. At the slightest hint of danger, Lord Tyrion was ready to abscond with his niece and nephew.

"You did not answer my question, Ned. Where are they?" The King tried once more.

"Safe for now, your Grace. They will not show their faces and are under guard. I will not tell you more. As soon as Lord Tyrion has signed the necessary papers they will disappear from Winterfell without anyone noticing. With your leave, I will ask Lord Tyrion to take the body of his deceased nephew with him. Let it be his responsibility to dispose of the body in any way he wants."

"What a bloody mess." The King sighed and let the subject drop for now. "The situation at the Wall is dire, you say? How is that possible? The reports I read only mention more recruits and plenty of funds for reinforcements."

"They also mention the Wildlings are settling closer to the Wall and number over a hundred thousand strong. Not to mention the fact that rangers of the Night's Watch keep disappearing."

King Robert hardly let him finish his last sentence. He was eager to discuss a new topic. "Who can I marry? Do you have any candidates lined up? I will enjoy making new heirs." The glee was apparent on his face. Ned hid his disgust and hoped Jon would make his move before the King had the time to remarry.

"Once the realm hears of your annulment you will be the most eligible bachelor in the Seven Kingdoms once again, Robert. Offers for betrothals will abound. It would be wise to wait and to see what they will offer you in exchange. You could gain a beautiful young wife and an exorbitant dowry in one fell swoop. I'll draft you an initial list of candidates soon. But bear in mind that I could overlook someone important. I fear I do not know every candidate in the South and would put too many northern ladies on it. So I repeat my advice to give the noble houses of Westeros a chance to dangle their most beautiful maidens and dowries in front of you. It would be unseemly to publicly search for a wife before the annulment is granted anyway."

"And the Lannisters will not call in their loans?" King Robert was now focusing on the advantages of his current predicament.

"I have Lord Tyrion's word of honour and also his signature as head of House Lannister." Ned promised. It looked more and more likely that Lord Tyrion wouldn't have to steal away like a thief in the night and that the children would remain safe.

Their conversation was interrupted by an urgent knock. Ned walked to the door to check who dared to go against standing orders of the King and disturb them.

"Lord Hand, Winterfell's Master at Arms informs us of the imminent arrival of Lord Willas of House Tyrell." Ser Arys informed him

"He comes for his brother, Loras," Ned stated the obvious to King Robert as soon as he closed the door. "What will you decide, my King? I would prefer to keep Loras in the North for now. That gives you leverage against lady Olenna. Surely you know from past experiences that you need every advantage to keep her from dictating the way you should run the Seven Kingdoms."

Ned was at a loss. How could he prevent the King from offering for Lady Margaery? That would most certainly harm Jon's cause substantially. They had been so sure that they were on the brink of bringing the Reach into the fold.

"I hate to refuse him in open Court. What a mess, Ned. Can you deal with it?" Robert Baratheon looked up trusting his new Hand to make this issue go away as well.

"I will simply prevent him from petitioning you in open Court. I'll see to it, Robert. I will promise to hear him out in private and intimidate him by stating that ambushing you before the Court will only force your hand since you are still doubting his innocence."

"Handle it, Ned. And then prepare everything for our journey back to King's Landing. I won't stay here a day longer than absolutely necessary.

"I can make arrangements to travel to White Harbour and sail to King's Landing from there, your Grace. That will shorten the journey substantially and make it more comfortable for you at the same time. You will not be slowed down by a big wheelhouse this time. We'll use that to convey Cersei north."

"That's the first idea I really like, Ned. How soon can we leave?

"The day after tomorrow. I need to get a ship commissioned and fitted out to cater to a royal entourage." He watched King Robert relax.

"That sounds reasonable. You will send me some female company to help me endure my last two nights in the North?"

"I'll delegate that responsibility to your servants, your Grace but will be sure to point them to the right establishment. If I may be excused? I have a lot of arrangements to make." Ned bowed and left the room in a hurry.

***

Lord Willas Tyrell received a warm welcome from the lady of Winterfell. She presented her children to him and Willas couldn't miss her calculating eyes studying his reaction to her eldest daughter. Sansa was a beauty but still so young. He remembered his grandmother's wishes and gallantly greeted her by kissing her hand. Her reaction seemed a bit off though. Now that he thought on it, the children all seemed pale and silent. Well his grandmother had warned him it was dreary in the North.

He accepted Robb Stark's proposal to look for his brother in the training yard and listened to Robb Stark telling him what a great friend his brother had become. Loras was indeed at the training yard. He was sparring with someone whose looks betrayed that he was not a northerner. He guessed it was someone from the royal entourage.

Loras greeted him warmly but expressed his surprise at his brother's arrival. Then he introduced his brother to Edric Dayne the heir of Starfall. It astounded Willas that his brother had not only developed a close friendship to the heir of Winterfell but also to a Dayne. He wondered how his grandmother would receive this news.

After the obligatory courtesies were exchanged, he quickly excused himself and his brother to Robb Stark and took Loras to a remote spot where they could talk in private. Loras gave him a brief summary of the events of the day before. His brother had gotten pale and inquired after the fate of the two remaining children of Cersei Lannister.

Loras remembering that Willas once had a crush on Myrcella reassured his brother immediately. "Lord Eddard Stark is looking out for them, Willas. You can trust his honour. If necessary, so he told me personally, he will go against his King's orders. He cannot condone the suffering of innocent children. However he could do nothing to prevent the King from stripping Tommen and Myrcella of their titles and their place in the succession. The King will proclaim them illegitimate as soon as the royal marriage is annulled by the High Septon. He trusts me not to spread this story, so please keep this to yourself. They have fabricated some nonsense about a hereditary affliction."

Willas immediately realised the repercussions. "Grandmother will surely" A small smile broke on Loras' face when he joined his voice to his brother's and they finished the sentence together. "want King Robert to marry our sister."

His mood sobered however when he heard his brother had travelled all this way because Grandmother had ordered Willas to fetch him home. Loras had no intention of leaving Renly behind. He grew nervous and informed his brother in a halting manner of Prince Renly's presence at Winterfell.

Willas expressed his empathy for his brother's plight but urged him to be cautious all the same. Now he understood why Loras seemed so a happy at Winterfell as well as the friendships he had developed here. He only wondered how his brother would convince their grandmother to let him stay in the North. Lady Olenna wanted him home sooner rather than later. Willas decided he would hold off on writing home for another day. He needed to gather more information on the ambitions of House Stark before he let her overreact to the news of King Robert's search for a new Queen.

No wonder Lady Sansa and her siblings had hardly reacted to his presence earlier. Their brother had nearly been murdered yesterday.

***

The last evening of the royal party's stay at Winterfell a modest feast had been organised. The Lannisters were noticeably absent. Lord Tyrion had already left with Myrcella and Tommen. They would make the long trip to Casterly Rock over land and were accompanied by the entire Lannister retinue that had formerly been a part or the royal entourage. Eddard Stark had promised Robert to replace these men with Stark guards. He didn't betray to King Robert how he had taken every precaution to assure that Tyrion Lannister would be granted safe passage through the Neck and the Riverlands by giving him a small northern escort to ease their way through the northern villages. He also didn't tell him of all the other things he had discussed with Lord Tyrion to make him compliant enough to sign anything he had put before him.

The Queen's wheelhouse had left Winterfell in the middle of the night. Lord Umber had offered to escort Cersei Lannister to Bear Island. The Greatjon had split up his men. The other half would accompany Jaime Lannister and Renly Baratheon to the Wall. Earlier today Eddard Stark had sent a raven to the Lord Commander with detailed instructions. In the end the King had decided to follow his Hand's advice without any further protestations. The man was already considering every fair maiden he knew of and was glad enough to leave the sordid details to his Hand.

Maester Luwin entered the great hall and whispered something in Lord's ear. Ned excused himself to the King stating a problem had arisen and needed his immediate attention. He would probably not return until much later but he needed to leave now in order to ensure nothing disturbed their departure on the morrow. He softened the blow substantially by reminding Robert of the two female companions that were awaiting him in his room as soon as his Grace was ready to retire.

"What could possibly be so urgent that you asked me to leave King Robert for the rest of the evening? Not another royal scandal I hope?" Lord Stark asked as soon as they entered the corridor. He eyed his Maester with exasperation.

"My Lord, a raven landed on my shoulder." A significant look accompanied his words and a tiny scroll was handed to Eddard Stark."

Ned startled. "Jon is here? Why would he take such a risk knowing Robert is at Winterfell? Where? How? The message states 'take a horse and follow the raven' , my Lord. You should leave now and go alone. I am sure it is not a trap. Who else but Jon could deliver a message in such a peculiar fashion?"

"I'll leave immediately." Ned accepted the cloak Maester Luwin handed him.

"I took the liberty of sending someone to fetch your horse for you. I'll inform your lady wife and Lord Robb as well as soon as you are gone, my Lord." The man bowed and went back to the Great Hall.

Ned followed the raven and was glad that the bird flew along a familiar path that circled around the exterior walls of the Godswood. It was getting rather dark and the clouds prevented the moon and the stars from providing extra light. Soon enough he saw Jon sitting against a tree. He scanned the environment but saw nobody else.

Jon got up when he dismounted and he was surprised to see his nephew's imposing posture. He remembered Robb mentioning the same to him. Well it fit with the impression his last letters had given him of the youth's newly developed authority. His nephew was growing into a strong leader and started to look the part as well. He didn't hesitate and hugged him. Ned was relieved to feel the young man returned his hug with alacrity. Apparently things hadn't changed that much.

"Good to see you, Jon. Oh Gods, look at you. I am so proud of you. But why did you come here? Did anyone see you?"

"Do you know how fast I can get here on the back of my dragon?" Jon replied a smile on his face. "It was a cloudy night, Uncle. We flew above the clouds the entire way and only ventured below them to land here behind the Godswood. Nobody noticed a thing."

"I am glad to hear it. I was sorry to hear about Maester Aemon."

Jon swallowed but didn't offer any comment.

"Why did you come however?" Ned repeated his earlier question.

"I was at the Wall when your raven arrived, describing Bran's attempted murder. The early discovery of the royal bastards can have severe repercussions. A lot has happened after Robb left me at Sea Dragon Point at our end as well and we've had to make some difficult decisions. Since I was such an easy distance from Winterfell, I concluded it would be easier if we could talk face to face. What's more, Lord Reed urged me speak to you. He had another premonition. If we can bounce ideas of each other, we will accomplish more than sennights of exchanging messages ever could. Davos and I even fabricated a little list in order not to forget anything. Jon took out a tiny scroll.

"Don't you have a Hand to discuss all of that with?" Ned couldn't prevent the remark from slipping out.

Jon studied his uncle and exhaled deeply before responding. "Davos is always at my side, Uncle. You and I are in contact as much as we can but it often takes too long for your advice to reach me to still be timely or relevant when it arrives. I hope I do not need to repeat how much I appreciate all that you have done for me and how I look up to you as an example of a good leader." Jon swallowed and continued. "I have taken the trouble to fly here to talk things over with you. Doesn't that prove anything?" He scrutinized his uncle who although clearly moved by his nephew's words stayed silent all the same.

Jon made another effort to sway him. "Didn't you read my letter? I wrote that if at any given time you decide you want to become my Hand and live by my side in King's Landing, I will name you my Hand as well and will become known as the King who ruled with the assistance of two of the best Hands in the entire history of Westeros."

"I am sorry." Lord Stark didn't stall his answer any longer. "You were absolutely right in appointing Davos Seaworth and I am honoured you came all the way here to seek my advice."

Clearly relieved, Jon asked his uncle to give a detailed account of the aftermath of Bran's climb. He paled when he heard of the violent death of the former Crown Prince. He didn't have time however to examine how he felt about that now. They needed to discuss the repercussions the presence of Jaime Lannister and Renly Baratheon at the Wall would have on their plans. When they had exhausted that subject Jon remarked with wry humour. "It will become crowded at the Wall. Did you know Prince Oberyn is on his way there as well?"

His face turned serious once more when he continued. "I was thinking of asking Prince Oberyn to return to Dorne. That or have him come up with another way to bring his brother into the fold. That last stunt of Prince Doran Martell, sending Prince Quentin Martell to Pentos doesn't sit well with me. Besides, it is time, Uncle. We are making our move on Dragonstone." He then told his uncle most of what had happened since Robb had left them. Uncle Benjen sends his greetings but you should have received a raven from him already.

Jon also elaborated on his temporary solution for the Free Folk without revealing anything about his turbulent stay at Castle Black. "I do not have the authority and we gather it is too early to convince the Lords of the North to offer the Free Folk sanctuary south of the Wall until the White Walker threat has been dealt with. I have ordered a large part of the fleets stationed at Bear Island and Skagos sail beyond the Wall. They can harbour the woman, children and everyone too weak to fight for a while." He looked at his uncle. "I took these decision mere moments after seeing their predicament. I decided I could not wait to hear your opinion on the matter. I figured time was of the essence. The ships are already on their way. I contacted Lord Manderly directly. I hope you will understand."

"I think it is an excellent solution." Ned reassured his nephew. "I pray that one day we can get the Free Folk and the Northerners to live together in peace but you are right. It is much too soon and you will need the Lords of the North on your side. Forcing them to accept Wildlings on their territory would have alienated them. I do not think I would have come up with that alternative as fast as you have." He saw Jon's face lose its apprehensive expression at the unexpected compliment.

"What can you tell me about Lord Reed's premonition?" Ned had been waiting for that to come up the entire time.

"What do you know of the situation at the Vale?" Jon reacted with a question of his own.

"Funny you should mention the Vale." But his serious slightly guilty expression belied the lightness of his words. Ned proceeded to tell him of his wife's correspondence with Littlefinger and the news he had inadvertently learned. "Littlefinger intends to become Lord of the Vale and even plans to make Lord Robin the next heir to the iron throne by marrying him to Shireen Baratheon. That way he will become Lord Regent." He then informed Jon of his letters to Lord Royce and the man's efforts to try and bring Robin Arryn under his protection.

Jon looked thoughtful. He had not missed the unspoken question of his uncle. He astonished him however with his part of the news. "Littlefinger has almost instigated a war with Dorne by providing false information to the small council. King Robert has insulted Prince Doran and only Prince Oberyn's timely intervention has defused the situation. Littlefinger believed rumours Varys and Oberyn successfully sabotaged as they set Baelish up for the fall."

"What false rumours?" This was news to Ned.

"That the dragon that presumably attacked pirates over the Narrow Sea belongs to Dorne and the attack was a test run before they would target King's Landing to revenge the death of Elia Martell and her children. But that is not all. Lord Reed knows that it was Lysa Arryn that killed her husband with poison handed to her by Littlefinger. He is not sure but he suspects that Lord Robin Arryn is actually Baelish's bastard."

"Poison? Do you know which one?" Ned asked

"Tears of Lys."

"Do you have any evidence to support this accusation?"

"Prince Oberyn has described the exact symptoms and they match Lord Arryn's ailments. Varys has gotten Maester Pycelle to confess a bottle went missing after a visit of Petyr Baelish but he hadn't connected the dots before. It is time he retired." Jon sighed. If the Citadel insists that a Maester's position is for life, they should at least instate a new rule that after a certain age, they send a young Maester to assist him at first so he can slowly take over when his older colleagues is no longer capable. I am sorry. I have gotten off track. I think we have sufficient proof to condemn Littlefinger. Add that to the other indictments you already collected."

'It will be my first order of business when I arrive at King's Landing as Hand of the King. I will also be proclaiming Lord Royce as regent of the Vale until the time Lord Robin comes of age or you decide otherwise when you are King. I hope that meets with your approval."

"It is the right thing to do. What about the Freys in the Riverlands? Do you think that situation will resolve itself by eliminating Littlefinger?"

"I'm not sure. Who knows whether he is the only mastermind of this situation? I will be grilling the small council at the first opportunity. For now I have sent a small contingency of men to the Riverlands. I hope that will send the message to the Freys that the Tullys are not without support."

"I hope Robb has told you about the offer I got from Yara Greyjoy." Jon proceeded to tell his uncle the details about their tentative alliance and the fact that Euron Greyjoy would be attacking somewhere south. "I have warned the Reach and Oldtown." He concluded.

"Talking about the Reach," Ned said. "I fear lady Olenna will no longer be persuaded to join your cause. She will surely try to marry her granddaughter to King Robert."

Jon was silent for a while. Ned could almost see the wheels in his head turning. "What if we gambled a bit? You told me Willas Tyrell is also at Winterfell. You have the future of her house right there. I suggest we inform him about the three surviving Kingsguards of House Targaryen who are fostering a male heir with dragons.. We tell him what you did for Renly Baratheon, Loras Tyrell and the former royal children. We conclude by proposing a marriage alliance between your houses as further enticement and my assurance they can stay on as ruling house of the Reach." Ned saw him look in the distance before continuing. "What if we talked to Loras as well?"

"While you're at it, why not invite lady Brienne to your coming out party?" Ned said taken aback by the risky approach.

"Actually, that is not a bad idea." Jon replied, "Although not simultaneously. I think I can get her on board easily if we have the support of both Tyrell brothers. In the event that Willas and Loras take King Robert's side, well, they are at Winterfell and completely in your power.

Just Imagine Uncle, if this succeeds, I can almost walk up the stairs of the Red Keep and seat myself on the iron throne without encountering any opposition."

"You forget King Robert and his Court, Stannis Baratheon and all the bannermen of the Stormlands, The Westerlands with the Lannisters, The Ironborn. And the Reach can still turn around and betray our secrets or plan to blackmail this male Targaryen into marrying Lady Margaerry Tyrell."

"I said almost, Uncle. The Lannisters will pose no problem. One good talk with Tyrion Lannister and he will stay neutral perhaps he might even be persuaded to support us. Stannis will stand alone. I do not see him align himself with the Ironborn. Did you know that Lord Reed has found a possible weakness? Allegedly, Lord Stannis has started to worship the Lord of Light. Lord Reed is sending someone his way to see if we can use this knowledge to our advantage. He will keep us informed as soon as they have made significant progress. I just think he enjoys being this mysterious greenseer. But I can't fault him for that. He has helped our cause tremendously. As far as the Lady Olenna is concerned, she does not need to know that the male heir of House Targaryen is still single."

Jon stopped his discourse to debate the issue of the Tyrells once more. "On second thought, I do not like to gamble with the Tyrells. They are loyal only to themselves. But could we not compromise. We could slowly try to get Lord Willas on board. Drop little hints and see how he reacts before we proceed any further."

Ned looked perplexed but Jon just continued. "The timing is tricky however. The royal party leaves Winterfell on the morrow." Jon finally noticed his uncle's expression. "What?"

"Do you always change your mind that quickly on important decisions like this? I do not know how to respond." His uncle hesitated to say more.

"Uncle, I haven't made up my mind yet on how to deal with the Tyrells. This is the way I usually work through my issues. I think aloud with my advisers listening and commenting. Sam calls it brainstorming. We bounce ideas of each other and only reach a final conclusion after we have looked at all angles. Davos often takes on the role of spoilsport and opposes or challenges every detail of my plans. That way we find the weak spots and adjust our strategy or come up with entirely new plans."

"So help an old relative out then. One who is not familiar with your strange ways of developing strategies. Did we already reach a conclusion or are we still racking our brains? How in the Gods' names do Davos and Ser Gerold keep up with you?" Ned complained but his eyes twinkled.

"Would you agree to let Robb bait Lord Willas a bit? See how he reacts to the rumours of dragons and the possibility of Targaryens returning? You cannot do it yourself since you are leaving on the morrow. It also gives us the possibility to deny everything should the Tyrell heir react badly at the first few hints. You as Warden of the North and Hand of the King could still laugh it all away claiming that your son has a vivid imagination and does not speak for House Stark yet."

"I'll speak to Robb and see how he feels about it." Ned was glad his nephew had decided on a more subtle approach and had not insisted on going through with his his initial risky idea.

"You know," Jon continued unaware he was stepping into a hornet's nest, "there is another solution. If you get Lady Olenna to sign off on a betrothal between Robb and lady Margaery, she would no longer have the option to catch King Robert as a bridegroom."

"I have already opened up negotiations with Lord Manderly. His granddaughter Lady Wylla and Robb are friends and Lord Manderly has supported your cause almost from the beginning." Lord Stark had stiffened slightly and watched Jon's reaction closely.

"Strange," Jon replied deep in thought. "Robb has not mentioned that to me. How does he feel about it?"

"He stalls," Ned couldn't keep the truth from his nephew. Robb had probably already sent a message to Jon's entourage.

Now it was Jon's turn to study his uncle. "I would understand your desire to arrange this betrothal if Robb really liked the girl. House Manderly is a rich and loyal House. Politically speaking though, it is not the best marriage. So if Robb stalls because he is not partial to the girl, why not be more ambitious and try for the beautiful unwed daughter of the lord Paramount of the Reach."

"He only stated we needed your approval and that you might have other prospects in mind. He named several, Lady Margaery being one of them. Have you discussed this with him?"

"We spoke of the fact that you swore allegiance to me and that I might have some influence on the decision if ever he was forced to marry an ugly fat woman of House Frey. Nothing more specific was discussed. I am not sure what to say to you here, Uncle." Jon seemed hesitant.

"Let's table it for now then. I'll stall Lord Manderly." Ned relented. "But think on it. It is a good proposal."

"Do you mind if I speak to Robb about this? I would like to hear his thoughts on both proposals. He knows he will have to marry for political reasons, but since he is the one that will be living with the girl for the rest of his live, I would like to hear his opinion on the subject before you and I make a decision. It will have to be by letter though. I need to concentrate on the threat beyond the Wall first."

"I can get Robb here in no time, Jon. I would really like to resolve this matter with Lord Manderly." Ned tried once more.

"Well, I wouldn't mind seeing Robb. Jon face lit up at the thought of seeing his cousin but his smile lasted only an instant. He wouldn't do to give his uncle false hope. "Bear in mind that I can't promise you that I can make such an important decision tonight, Uncle. Besides, Robb has not reached his eighteenth nameday yet. You do not have to marry him off right away. I would prefer to focus on the situation at the Wall first. I just brought up his possible betrothal to help keep Lady Olenna's ambitions away from King Robert."

"I understand, Jon. I only wish things could be different. I hate this mummery. I will be glad when everything is out in the open and I can be honest and straightforward again. I feel guilty every time King Robert praises me for being such a good friend. I had hoped that now that you are using the dragons and rumours have started, that it wouldn't be long before you made your move and I could stop lying to everyone. You can't expect me to be happy about your decision of changing your focus to situation at the Wall when we are so close to starting your bid for the throne."

Jon realised his uncle was tired and knew by personal experience that problems always seemed larger when you were exhausted. "I am sorry, Uncle. I know you have by far the most difficult role and that it asks a lot of your mental strength. Once everything is resolved I will stress to everyone in Westeros how nobly you saved the life of the rightful heir to the Iron Throne. Your honour will be loudly praised. Do not forget, history books are written by the victors. We will not allow King Robert or anyone else for that matter to smear your good name. I have even come up with a reward for you and the North." Jon proceeded to tell his uncle how he saw the North's role in this new world he would be creating.

Ned was speechless. He just stared at the sky and contemplated the unexpected path this one decision he had made seventeen year ago had taken him on and tried to imagine what was still to come. When he felt Jon shift beside him he came back to the present. He told Jon he was going to fetch Robb and would be back in not time.

Jon stalled him however. "I still have a few things I would like to go over with you. But first, can you assure me you will heed Lord Reed's other warning and not take your children to King's Landing?" Jon asked his uncle.

Ned assured him he was leaving them all behind and added that his wife had given him a lot of grief over it these last few days. Then he encouraged Jon to get on with his next topic.

"I can't help but think we should exploit the fact that I am helping the North out at the Wall to gain the recognition of the Lords of the North. The people at the Stony Shore have seen me in action and I am fairly certain they will support my claim if I ask for their help with your backing. Is there a possibility you could send representatives of the more important Northern Houses to the Wall to bear witness to what is really happening there? Only if they believe there really is a White Walker threat, will they be able to fully appreciate the lengths we all went through to protect the people of the North and the rest of the realm."

"I'll talk to them, or let Robb talk to them if I do not find the time before we depart on the morrow." Ned sighed. "Is that it?"

"I had thought to tell you in detail how we are planning to invade Dragonstone but I can also send you the report."

"Just give me a quick summary, mention only the things that weren't mentioned in your last scroll."

Jon spoke quickly and Ned was glad that this one was a well thought out plan and would be carried out with minor upheaval. Finally Ned got up to fetch his son. It was getting rather late. He knew his wife would be growing anxious.

Lord Stark returned swiftly with Robb and allowed them some privacy. He saw both cousins embrace each other. It was evident they enjoyed a close bond. Jon and Robb sat down with their backs turned to Ned. Suddenly Greywind stormed onto the scene and toppled Jon. The young man just laughed and hugged the wolf talking softly to him. When Greywind had calmed down and settled himself at Robb's feet, the boys resumed their talk. Ned waited patiently until they stood up and walked over to him. He met them halfway. It was Jon who broke the silence.

"No betrothal to House Manderly yet, Uncle. Let's first wait and see what can be done to bring the Reach into the fold. There are other possibilities. Perhaps Lord Willas will offer for Sansa? We need to know more before you commit your heir. He is our biggest trump card."

"No Jon," his uncle replied the disappointment evident in his tone of voice. "You are. You do realise you risk becoming Lady Olenna's prime target."

"Then I will stall her as well." Jon kept his voice firm. "Things will move fast. Just stall Lord Manderly a few moons". He looked towards the clouded sky. "I hate to part from you with this awkward feeling lingering between us, Uncle." Jon felt his uncle's disappointment keenly."

Ned made an effort and smiled. Jon was right. They should part on a better note. A pack had only one leader and needed to rally behind him if they were to succeed. He knew just the thing to lift everyone's spirit. "Anyone here wants to hear about the origin of our inexhaustible war fund?"

"Are you finally ready to tell us, Uncle?" Jon replied fully conscious of the effort Lord Stark was making. He returned his smile and lightly touched his uncle's arm to convey a silent thank you.

Ned's smile grew more mysterious when he replied. "Only if you boys can keep a secret." A bit later he enjoyed their looks of utter unbelief.

When his uncle started to take his leave Jon stalled him once more. Uncle, Robb just relayed something to me that Bran told him in confidence yesterday. It seems his direwolf helped him descend the Wall of the old tower safely. Bran described to his elder brother how Summer had talked to him in his mind. He claimed his wolf had calmed him down and had encouraged him step by step. You should talk to him since I can't do it myself. There have been more instances where he and his wolf connected. Let Robb tell you the particulars. Perhaps you should consider fostering him out to Lord Reed for a few years. With the right tutoring Bran could become a powerful warg."

Ned promised to take that in consideration. Then all three agreed that it was high time that Ned and Robb returned to their guest. Jon hugged Robb first and then turned to his uncle who initiated their embrace. "Thank you Uncle, for everything." Ned felt his nephew's words came from the bottom of his heart. He tightened the hug a bit accentuating their restored bond.

"Stay safe," Ned said, reluctantly ending the hug.

"You as well, Uncle." Jon took a few steps back, closed his eyes and called for Rhaegal. "Best keep your distance,' he warned them. "And Robb, do keep Greywind in check."

Ned would never forget the awe inspiring sight of Jon mounting Rhaegal and how gracefully both dragons ascended the sky to disappear from his sight only moments later when they reached the clouds. He often summoned this memory when he felt guilty during the journey south in the company of King Robert. It would only be when he reached King's Landing and heard the rumours floating around, that he realised that Jon had not flown off in the direction of the Wall but had taken his dragons south.

***

Loras had said a tearful goodbye to Lord Renly. For all they knew, it could be several years before Renly would be allowed to leave the Wall. Robb urged him to keep faith, reminding him that his father was working on a solution. As Hand of the King, Lord Eddard Stark had the power to change things for the better in the Seven Kingdoms. The Starks had been nothing but amazing these past few days.

Earlier when Robb had informed him that Lord Tyrion Lannister was about to leave, they had both petitioned Robb's father to allow Prince Renly to say goodbye to the children he had loved as Niece and Nephew all these years. Lord Stark had immediately arranged for Tommen and Myrcella to pay a short visit to Renly's room. Loras had seen to it that Willas happened to be calling on Prince Renly at the exact same time. His brother had not wasted the opportunity and had pressed a small scroll in Myrcella's hand when he wished her a safe journey. The pale teary eyed girl's cheeks had flushed with colour. She had quietly accepted the scroll and concealed it in her sleeves.

***

Willas Tyrell had decided to stay on at Winterfell for a while longer since Loras refused to leave the North. Two sennights later, Willas cornered his brother in his room where Loras was changing his outfit before supper.

"I know you consider Robb Stark a friend but I am growing more suspicious of House Stark's hidden motives." When his brother darted him an astonished glance he tried to explain the reasons for his mistrust.

"It started the very day King Robert left. Do you recall how after supper he invited us to stay a little while longer and ordered more wine? The conversation started innocently enough but then he alluded to the lucrative trade deals between our regions the North had instigated. Over the next few days he dropped more hints. He mentioned the gardening techniques the North had shared with us that had increased productivity in the Reach, the recent warning of a possible Ironborn attack and some less important things."

Loras had finished fastening the buttons of his tunic and lifted his head, his eyes silently mocking his brother.

"Try and think for once, Loras. I have replayed every conversation in my head and have not found a single encounter without the heir of Winterfell trying to point out how much the Reach needs the North."

Loras smile reached his eyes now. "Robb Stark is a good friend and House Stark is trustworthy, Willas. I am well aware that Robb Stark has a hidden agenda although he is not very good at hiding it from me."

"If that is your way of reassuring me," Frustration radiated from the elder Tyrell. He saw his brother's smile grow even wider.

"Relax, Willas. When you are not around, Robb can't stop asking questions about Margaery. He wants me to describe her looks, her personality and asks why she is not betrothed yet. It is rather obvious that Robb Stark has set his sights on our sister." When he noticed his brother was not convinced he continued. "Willas, the Starks have helped me and Renly any way they could. Myrcella and Tommen owe their present comfort to Lord Stark, if not their lives. There is more at play here than you know." Loras avoided eye contact with his brother now. He had a faraway look that made Willas even more worried.

Willas knitted his brows. "Loras, whatever do you mean?"

"I am sorry, brother. I vowed on my honour as a Tyrell not to reveal anything I discovered during my stay at Winterfell or during the trip across the Riverlands."

Willas scrutinized his brother who just glared back not giving an inch. "Loras what have you done now? What did you vow exactly?"

"Not nearly as much as I swore to Edric Dayne after he found out where Renly was being kept and obtained Lord Stark's permission for me to visit him as much as I wanted. I believe I literally promised him he could ask any service of me, anytime."

"You do realise they can ask you to murder the King and you would be honour bound to do it?"

"Edric is my friend, Robb is my friend and Lord Stark literally told me we are all on the same side. I figure I can reveal you that much at least. Besides, my vow to Lord Stark released me from my vow to Edric Dayne sort of." Loras crossed his arms and pursed his lips. Willas realised he would not get more out of his younger sibling for now.

"Just do not tell Grandmother any of this, Loras. She will not rest until you have told her every tiny discovery you have made since leaving King's Landing. I am not happy about any of this but I will not force you to break a vow. That doesn't mean that I will not try to find out what is going on by keeping my eyes and ears open."

"I wish you luck, brother. But keep in mind that the Starks are not the enemy. If there is one thing I am sure of after all I have witnessed, that is it. Come on, I am hungry. Let us find the heir of Winterfell and tell him some more about the paragon that is our sister." Loras put his arm around his brother and led him out of the room.

***

After breaking their fast the next morning, Robb invited them to join him in the Godswood. Willas had not been allowed in there before. He was eager to follow his brother's example and removed his boots so he could bathe his feet in the warm water of the famous hot springs. He should have known it was all just a ruse of Robb Stark to get them to relax and lower their guards.

They had hardly finished some observations about the enchanting weirwood tree when Robb surprised them by changing the topic to the rumours concerning the dragons that were spotted in Westeros.

"Do you believe there is any truth to them?" Robb asked casually.

Willas saw through his innocent remark immediately. Loras' so called friend was up to something. Only he didn't have the faintest idea what is was. Willas exchanged a look with Loras, while he contemplated whether it was safe to reveal part of his grandmother's suspicions. "We do not know what to think. Some say the dragon belongs to the Targaryen Princess across the Narrow Sea." He hedged.

"Wouldn't it be something if that were true? I heard Princess Daenerys is supposed to be a rare beauty. Wasn't your house loyal to the Targaryens?" Robb seemed glad Willas had mentioned the Targaryen Princess.

"Almost everyone in the Seven Kingdoms was loyal to House Targaryen at one time, House Stark as well." Willas kept his face neutral but his stiff posture revealed he was on his guard.

"True, but doesn't your house owe their current position of Lord Paramount solely to House Targaryen? Would you raise your banners for them if they asked for your support?"

Only the rustling of the leaves of the trees and the faint rippling of the hot water could be heard as Willas and Loras stayed silent.

"What if I told you House Stark might consider an alliance with House Targaryen?" Robb tried once more to get a reaction out of both Tyrells.

"What? That's impossible. Your father is Hand to King Robert. The entire realm knows what the King calls the Targaryen offspring." Willas was even more wary of Robb Stark now. The boy had an agenda and it was not simply ingratiating himself with House Tyrell. It almost seemed as if he was trying to get them to expose themselves as traitors to the Crown so his father could call for their heads.

"You have my word as a Stark that whatever we talk about here in the Godswood stays between us and I only asked you hypothetically." Robb reassured the elder Tyrell. "Perhaps I am just curious because I heard rumours that House Tyrell had opened up negotiations with the Targaryen Princess in Essos? Hypothetically speaking, we could one day find ourselves on the same side."

Loras looked at Robb in a peculiar way. "Is this related to what I have seen in the Riverlands?" he ventured.

"It might be, but remember your oath. You will only be allowed to tell your brother if he swears the same oath in my presence."

Willas looked at his brother with dismay. The boy had done nothing but swear vows lately. He turned his attention to Robb. Now it was his turn to throw Stark off balance. "If this is your way of courting our sister, you sure go about it in a strange fashion.

Robb didn't flinch but laughed away this last comment. "As if I am able to decide that for myself. No, I will have to marry for political reasons and my bride will be chosen for me. I am just intrigued by all the rumours of dragons lately. Did you know two were spotted here in the north at the Stony Shore?"

Willas Tyrell did not react and a subtle gesture to his brother resulted in Loras staying silent as well.

Robb decided to give up for today. "Will we ask Lady Brienne to join us for a sparring session? I have been inactive for too long. I want to release some energy, before Maester Luwin summons me for some boring task I need to perform now that I am acting Lord of Winterfell.

Loras was quick to oblige him, and started to put his boots back on. Willas politely declined by mentioning his leg would not allow him to join their session. He retired to the library where he could strategize in peace. He had to find a way to get Loras to reveal under what circumstances he had given these vows and to repeat them to him word for word. Perhaps he should write a long letter to his grandmother after all. If anyone would be able to make sense of all this, it would be her.

On their way to the courtyard Loras and Robb startled Edric who was sitting on a bench next to Sansa. Robb had noticed them from afar. He had observed how Edric was listening intently to his sister the entire time it took them to approach. The couple did not notice their arrival until the others were already upon them. Sansa blushed while Edric jumped from the bench and joined his friends. Upon hearing their plans Sansa volunteered to go inside and fetch Lady Brienne. They were just about to tease Edric when the young Lord forestalled them by blaming his friends for leaving him alone. Edric complained he had looked all over for them. Robb diverted his attention by challenging Edric and Loras to a small competition. He had been winning more lately and boasted he could win against them both today. They spent an enjoyable morning together.

Interlude 16: Useful allies

Part one: Greywater Watch

For the first time in his life, Lord Reed doubted whether the Old Gods were the only Gods that mattered. Unexpected visitors had challenged his beliefs. His scouts had informed him that two men had already ventured half way through the swamps on their own. They described them as a Westerosi knight and a priest from Essos. Lord Reed had ordered his scouts to guide the two men the rest of the way to Greywater Watch and bring them to him.

Howland Reed personally greeted his unexpected guests at the entrance of his keep. The men introduced themselves as Lord Beric of House Dondarrion, Lord of Blackhaven in the Stormlands and Thoros of Myr a red priest who lived in Westeros but had kept to his own faith and still worshipped the Lord of Light. Lord Reed had heard of both men. He remembered the priest was an experienced fighter. Ned Stark had told him of the man's brave but reckless exploits during the Greyjoy Rebellion. He offered his visitors salt and bread while they were still standing outside in front of the hall.

A bit later the three of them were safely ensconced behind closed doors in Lord Reed's solar. The two travellers were staring as if transfixed into the fireplace around which they were all seated in cosy chairs strategically placed in a half circle. Lord Reed ignored their behaviour and came straight to the point.

"My Lords, can you oblige a surprised host and inform him of the purpose of your visit to his remote domain?" he started the conversation.

"The Lord of Light has sent us here to help your cause. " Thoros of Myr proclaimed reluctantly shifting his eyes from the fire to his host. "Your Prince needs our help."

"My Prince?" Lord Reed exclaimed not able to hide his shock. It was not often someone could catch him entirely off guard. It usually happened the other way around.

"The Prince Who Was Promised, he who will lead the fight against the Darkness. The Lord of Light has shown him to us in the fires. My God guided us through your swamps and kept us safe. This alone should convince you that we are speaking the truth." Thoros of Myr told all of this in a flat tone of voice which was in stark contrast to the high pitched tone Lord Reed had just used during his short outburst. The priest didn't need to raise his voice to get his meaning across. Absolute belief in the message of his God radiated from his entire being.

"Do you know where to find this Prince?" Lord Reed was on high alert now. His Gods had not warned him of this strange visit. Did these strangers know of the existence of the Targaryen Prince? Were they even talking about Jon or was this Prince they mentioned someone entirely different? Somehow he didn't believe that.

"He is where the Darkness grows and the snow never melts. Only he is worthy to take on the threat that lurks there. Rest assured. We are here to serve your Prince, not to harm him." Thoros tried to reassure his host.

"He speaks the truth." Beric Dondarrion spoke up for the first time. "I've seen it in the flames as well. We came to warn you about the false Prince."

"Beric, now you are scaring the poor man." Thoros admonished his traveling companion. "We came to warn you that a red Priestess has singled out another as the Prince Who Was Promised. The deluded man believes her every word. He has already made a human sacrifice on her orders to please the Lord of Light. Her magic makes him stronger and he will become a threat to the cause of your Prince. If the red Priestess succeeds, the real Prince Who Was Promised may never fulfil his destiny."

"So that is how you do not scare the man, is it?" Beric admonished the red Priest.

"I am sorry," Lord Reed interrupted the two bickering men, "why exactly are you telling me all this?

"R'hllor, our Lord of Light acknowledges that you are guiding the real Prince. But the red Priestess' magic shields the intentions of the false Prince from the Old Gods." Thoros of Myr knew the existence of the Lord of Light would be a difficult thing to accept, especially to this man who had such a close relationship with his own Gods. And they needed Lord Reed not only to believe in His existence, they had to convince him that their Fire God and the Old Gods were on the same side for once.

And will you reveal the identity of this false Prince my Gods are unable to warn me about or do you enjoy speaking in riddles?" Howland Reed needed more information before he was willing to disclose anything himself.

Thoros of Myr on the other hand knew with absolute certainty that their purpose was to help the Prince who would save them all and was confident that they could safely reveal their sacred mission to this man. He signalled his companion that he should go ahead.

Lord Dondarrion spoke up "The Red Priestess, Melisandre is it at Storm's end and has Stannis Baratheon under her spell. The Lord of Light guided us here because you will need our assistance to deal with this situation. Will you now repay our trust and reveal the identity of the real Prince Who Was Promised to us?" Thoros leaned forward in his chair and stared firmly in the greenseers' eyes to make his words more convincing.

"How do I know you are not looking for my so-called Prince to offer him up to your Lord of Light? Red priests burn their sacrifices, don't they? If you presume rightly that I have protected him for this long, why would I risk him now?"

"You can trust us. I swear it upon my honour. It was the Lord of Light who guided us through your swamps because he realises your Prince, born of ice and fire is the only one who can bring the Dawn. Our God and your Gods have the same purpose. They are working together to save the realms of men from the danger that lurks behind the Wall." Lord Dondarrion looked beseechingly at Howland Reed.

Lord Reed sighed. There was no doubt left in his mind. They were talking about the son of Rhaegar Targaryen and Lyanna Stark. However he still wanted to try and contact his Gods before he went against the directives the Conspiracy had held onto for more than seventeen years.

"If that is the case, let us drop this subject for now. I will consult the Old Gods tonight. You are of course welcome to stay the night. Even with your God's guidance, it is too dangerous to navigate the swamps at night. And I am eager to finish our discussion tomorrow morning. I sincerely apologise for stalling you like this."

Not waiting for their reaction he pulled a chord and a crannogman appeared in the doorway. "This man will escort you to your rooms. As soon as you have refreshed yourselves, we will enjoy supper in my hall. My man will show you the way there as well. I hope you can tell me about your travels during our meal. I'd love to hear more about the Stormlands. You are the first visitors that we have received from that part of the realm." Lord Reed had tabled the delicate topic for now.

"No talk of prophesies at the dinner table. I get it." Lord Dondarrion promised and both men followed their appointed guide out.

Lord Reed closed his eyes. 'If this is how the others feel when I reveal my sometimes vague green dreams, I finally can commiserate with their frustration.' He fervently hoped that the Old Gods would be willing to provide him with their guidance tonight.

***

The next morning Lord Reed felt much better. Even though the Old Gods had not given him another premonition, they had been unequivocal in relaying to him that his guests were trustworthy. He was grateful now that they had come all the way to warn him about Stannis Baratheon posing a threat to his Prince's cause. He did not disclose Jon's true identity but told them that the one they called the Prince Who Was Promised went by the name of Jon Celtigar to hide his royal lineage for now and was currently at the Wall more specifically at Castle Black. He added that the Old Gods had proclaimed his Prince to be the shield that will guard the realms of men against the Long Night a long time ago.

Thoros of Myr and Beric Dondarrion accepted his answer without blinking and enquired no further. The three men shared the belief that the Long Night and the Darkness were just different terms their Gods used to describe the same evil. The two travellers thanked Lord Reed for his hospitality and left immediately after breaking their fast. They were heading back to Storm's End to further investigate the actions of the false Prince and his Red Priestess so they would learn how to stop them from endangering the realms of men with their deluded cause.

Lord Reed watched them disappear from his sight and hurried to his solar to prepare several messages.

Part two: The Vale of Arryn

Lord Yohn Royce contemplated the scroll he had received from Winterfell. He knew way before he read the message from Lord Stark that the situation at the Vale was deteriorating. Ever since his last conversation with Lysa Arryn about fostering options for her son, the woman had isolated herself high up in the Eyrie and had cut off all communications with the other houses in the Vale. He feared for the wellbeing of Lord Arryn's son, the future Warden of the Vale. The woman was unstable, if not mad outright and had totally hampered the development of her son. The nine year old boy still suckled at his mother's breast, never left her side and had uncontrolled anger outbursts that were typical for a three year old.

The only thing that went up the mountain for now, were the donkeys guided by female servants loyal to Lady Arryn, carrying baskets with food and drink. The few servants and small retinue of guards that had been allowed to stay in her presence were virtual prisoners up there. She had sent all the others down a sennight ago.

He wondered how he could get to the boy without bloodshed. The Eyrie was an impregnable fortress. As leader of the Vale's forces, neither the Bloody Gate at the mouth of the Vale nor the two Moon Gates could hold him back. It would take him no more than two intimidating sentences to convince the guards to ignore Lady Arryn's orders. It was the steep, narrow mountain path, the only way to reach the Eyrie that took most of the day to climb that presented the problem. He feared the guards high up the mountain under direct orders of Lysa Arryn would attack any approaching party by dropping rocks, boulders or even oil to light them on fire.. Strategically positioned archers were a danger as well. Unless he could figure out a way to get these guards on his side, it would be mere suicide to start the long ascend along the narrow mountain path where a man needed all his concentration not to take a false step and fall to his death.

He had thought of tampering with the daily shipments of ale and wine by adding a touch of the shade of night to it to drug the remaining adults in the Eyrie. There were however two big issues with that plan. First of all it would risk the already precarious health of Robin Arryn since you could not be sure what Lysa permitted the boy to drink. But also the plan was not full proof plan since one could not be certain that the guards would all receive their drinks at the same time. The drug would only keep them asleep for part of the day.

The message from the Lord of Winterfell had convinced him to take the only action he could come up with for now. He had dispatched some of his finest archers to a mountaintop situated between the Giant's Lance on which top the Eyrie was situated and King's Landing. If they could shoot down the ravens that flew to and from the capital, they could stop Peter Baelish from further poisoning the mind of Lady Arryn. If the treasonous coward really wanted to marry her, become Lord of the Vale and conspire to put Robin Arryn on the Iron Throne, he would have to come up to the Vale himself to convince her. And when he did, Lord Royce would be waiting for him.

Meanwhile he still needed to think of a way to infiltrate the Eyrie. The only plan he had in motion was his search for a female servant, someone not only indubitably loyal to him but also willing to take the risk. She would be tasked to get subtle messages to the guards. These men were surely getting desperate. Not only were they isolated from friends and family, they were also obligated to obey the ridiculous orders of a paranoid woman who was growing more erratic by the day. He only needed to get a handful to cooperate with them. It could work. It would only take a while.

If not for the boy, he would just poison the murderous bitch and be done with it. If Eddard Stark wrote that Lysa Arryn and Littlefinger had conspired to murder the former Hand of the King who had been their highly respected Lord Paramount and Warden of the East for decades, Yohn Royce didn't doubt that it was true. The bitch would have to die but he agreed with the constraint Lord Eddard Stark had insisted upon. By no means should they take any action that could potentially endanger young Robin Arryn.

The message ended with a vague warning not to turn away help should it arrive from the skies. As if Yohn Royce was in a position to turn away any help at this point. It was high time they eliminated that mad woman before she harmed herself and her son.