The king sat alone in his room, looking at the single piece of parchment that contained the long list of names of those who had died during the battle. The battle had been considered a decisive victory by Robb's commanders and his men. They had killed the enemy king and his top general, destroyed their most potent force in the Unsullied, and slew a dragon on top of it all. But the cost had been very high, at least in Robb's eyes.
Jonos Bracken, Ser Lyn Corbray, Horton Redfort, Dwan Umber, Ser Jon Fossoway, and Eddard Karstark. They were just a few of the lords and knights who had been lost in the battle, fighting valiantly against the Targaryen forces.
Robb knew that none of the dead would begrudge him for what he did. He and his son had been attacked, and the Targaryens had refused to hand over the guilty party. It had been obvious who had ordered the assassination, but Daenerys had accepted the inevitable battle as soon as she refused to hand over Connington.
Connington's head had been cut off and placed on a spike outside the castle gates, something Garlan had taken pleasure in doing. He was a kind and genial man most of the time, but the attack on Robb and Torrhen had brought out a vengeful side that Robb had never seen before. Garlan's passion for revenge, however, only served to show his devotion to his family.
Garlan hadn't been the only one who had found revenge in the battle. Apparently, a knight by the name of Gerold Dayne had been the one who had grievously injured Loras at the battle of Harrenhal. The Knight of Flowers had sought out Darkstar during the battle and had cut him down after a fierce battle that had left Loras bruised and battered. Dayne's death had helped secure a victory over the dornish as he was one of their best warriors.
The door opened to reveal Margaery, who strode into the room with Mira right behind her. Robb was immediately on his feet, reaching her just as the door closed. Relief flooded Margaery's face as soon as she laid eyes on Robb.
"I heard that you had battled Aegon." Margaery said quietly as Robb hugged her. "I told me you wouldn't fight."
"I didn't plan on it." Robb said, kissing Margaery. "It just….happened."
Margaery patted Robb's chest. "Your northern honor is going to get you into a lot of trouble one day."
Robb smiled slightly. Although his thoughts were dark and gloomy, he couldn't help but smile whenever Margaery was with him.
"It led me to you, so I guess it already has." he joked, earning himself a light punch on his good arm. He nodded kindly to Mira. "Mira."
Even with a baby in her arms, the daughter of Gregor Forrester still managed to curtsey. "My lord." she replied. "I'm glad to see that you've survived."
"Thank you." Robb said, taking Torrhen from her. "I'm sure you want to find your father and brothers. You should be with them."
Lord Gregor had stayed with Robb after the collective army had split up at Riverrun. Rodrik had gone north with Jon to help reclaim the North from the Boltons and the ironborn. Asher Forrester, Lord Gregor's second son who had been exiled to prevent a war between House Forrester and House Whitehill, had returned with the Company of the Rose. Asher, Rodrik, Mira, and Gregor had all been reunited in Robb's camp when Robb's own family had returned to him. The rest of the Forresters; Ethan, Ryon, and Talia were all still at Ironrath.
Mira glanced at Margaery, who nodded in agreement. The lady-in-waiting quickly bowed before leaving.
With Torrhen cradled in one arm, Robb and Margaery moved over to the table, where the queen immediately looked at what Robb had been staring at. Just as with Robb, Margaery's shoulders had slumped a little as she read all who had been lost.
Thankfully, the manner of their death hadn't been reported. Only Robb had that unfortunate knowledge.
"How many?" she asked quietly.
"Thirty thousand." Robb sighed. "It's not terrible. The Targaryens lost over fifty thousand, and more are dying everyday because of injuries."
"And I heard a rumor about a dragon." Margaery pressed gently.
"Aegon rode Viserion, the gold and white dragon, into battle." Robb explained. "Lord Tarly put so many arrows and spears in the beast that it was a bloody wreck by the time Aegon decided to come after me."
"And the plan worked." Margaery assumed.
"Perfectly." Robb answered. "Eyan was the one who brought the creature down and he was the one who finished it off. He has dozens of nicknames to choose from now."
"I can imagine." Margaery agreed. "Where's the body?"
"I had it dragged to the dragonpit. The other two are 'contained' to the godswood. Daenerys was in control of Drogon and Rhaegal. She was surprisingly conservative with them." Robb said with a shrug. "We have a busy day today."
Margaery raised an eyebrow. "Oh?"
"We have a lot that needs to be sorted before we hold court tomorrow." Robb said. "Are you ready to rule?"
Line Break
"My lords, my lady." Robb said, standing up as the dornish party entered. The Red Viper looked extremely weary, but he had a dangerous glint in his eye. His brother, Doran, was stone faced as his massive guardsman pushed him in his wheelchair. The girl, Arianne if Robb remembered correctly, was the only one who looked at ease with the situation.
"Can I offer you some refreshments?" Robb ordered. "Wine? I asked for a dornish red. Apparently Cersei had barrels of it."
Prince Doran shook his head. "That is kind of you, Lord Robb, but I, nor my family, is in the mood for wine. Rather, we would prefer to learn why you have summoned us."
Robb glanced at Margaery before nodding and taking his seat, motioning for the others to do the same. Robb clasped his hands in front of him and gazed firmly at the old dornish prince, knowing full well that he was Robb's best chance.
"I must first offer my condolences for what occurred." Robb began. "I do not regret the action I took, but I am sorry that you and your men were harmed in the conflict."
"That won't bring them back." Prince Oberyn grumbled.
"I know." Robb said. "But I wanted to put that forward first."
"Thank you." Doran said briefly. "Now please, why have you called us?"
"I have no wish to make Dorne my enemy." Robb said bluntly. "I have already made arrangements for you and your men to be sailed back to Dorne. No guards, no hostages taken, nothing."
"Nothing." Prince Doran said, raising an eyebrow curiously. "You are letting part of the army you fought against return home without any prisoners?"
"I am." Robb replied. "As I said, I am sorry for your losses. Connington's foul plot drew you into battle. I wanted justice and battle, unfortunately, became the only way I could get it. You and your men were…."
"Caught in the crossfire." Margaery said helpfully.
Robb nodded. "Exactly."
Doran rubbed his jaw and the soft, well-trimmed beard that he kept. He had a thoughtful expression of his face as he considered Robb's offer. Oberyn had already crossed his arms and leant back in his seat, ready to accept whatever his brother's answer was. Arianne was looking at Robb with a curious look that was a mix of intrigue and amusement.
"With anyone else, I would worry about how you might take back your word." Doran said finally. "You are many things, Robb Stark, but you are first and foremost the son of Eddard Stark, and that counts for quite a bit."
Robb smiled slightly. "Thank you, my lord. I believe that means that you are agreeing to my offer."
"I am." Doran said, nodding. "Is that all?"
Robb shook his head. "There is one more proposition I would like to broach if you would indulge me."
Doran nodded.
"As I am about to take the Iron Throne, I would like for Dorne to have a say in Westeros is ruled." Robb explained. "I would very much like for Prince Oberyn, and all his children and his paramour if he wishes, to stay in the capitol as the emissary of Dorne."
"You said no hostages." Oberyn growled.
"And you won't be one." Robb replied calmly. "Dorne still keeps its independence under Prince Doran's rule. My only wish is for Dorne to have a voice here. And between you and me, my lords and lady, I do not want a politician. I want a man who will tell me the harsh truth."
Oberyn and Robb gazed at each other. The northern king could feel that the Red Viper was close to accepting, he just needed one more push. He was a man who loved his people and his family.
"I will allow Dorne to keep its independence." Robb said, turning to Prince Doran. "A simple oath of loyalty is all that I will require. All taxes and such will be paid to House Martell. I would like there to be constant communication between King's Landing and Sunspear."
"Allies, not strangers." Margaery put simply.
Doran nodded slowly. "That is a very generous offer. I wonder how your generals feel about it."
"This offer is for the good of Westeros, not to appease anyone." Robb said firmly. "I would have your answer."
Doran glanced at Oberyn, who was still gazing at Robb. Eventually, he met his brother's gaze and nodded once.
"We accept your grace." Doran said simply.
Line Break
"Your Grace, they're here." Brienne said, poking her head through the cracked door. Robb nodded and gestured to his commander to let them in. Three men were escorted in by the giant woman, not that any would like to try and fight the warrior woman.
"Your Grace, Tyrion Lannister, Bronn, and Podrick Payne." she said.
Robb nodded and motioned for the men to take the seats across from Robb. "Welcome, gentlemen. Wine?"
Tyrion smiled slightly. "Perhaps just a little, your grace."
Robb poured the wine, a very good redwyne vintage from the Reach, into three chalices, distributing them out to the chairs in front of him. When all three took their seats, Robb retook his.
"I wish to thank you for your help, my lord." Robb said. "Yours and Willas's work was life saving."
"So I heard." Tyrion chuckled, raising his glance to Robb. "Eyan Dragon-Eye is the talk of the town."
Robb smiled slightly. "I'm sure you've figured out that I did not call you here to praise you for your help with the dragons."
"I had a feeling." Tyrion said with a shrug. "Thankfully, I will not have to wait long. You northerners do not usually beat around the bush."
Robb's smile grew. "The first issue I would like to bring up is in the Westerlands."
"Casterly Rock I take it?" Tyrion said.
Robb nodded. "Indeed. Your cousin, Daven I believe, has held out quite admirably against Randyll Tarly. But enough is enough. The war is over and Tarly leaves the day after tomorrow to take back command of the siege. Believe me, Lord Tyrion, it may take months or years, but Tarly will bring the Rock to heel."
Tyrion shrugged, taking a drink of his wine. "Will he? Forgive my arrogance, but the Rock hasn't fallen in hundreds of years. It's well stocked and defended."
Robb nodded. "So it seems. But I believe that there is a simpler way to finish the campaign in the west."
Tyrion raised an eyebrow. "Oh?"
"You are Tywin Lannister's last surviving heir, are you not?" Robb asked. "The Rock belongs to you."
Tyrion scoffed. "My father never publicly acknowledged me as his heir. For all I know, he left the Rock to Daven or Stafford."
Margaery frowned. "You are the last remaining male of your line. Surely Tywin must have acknowledged that. My cousin can not rule Highgarden before Willas or Garlan." she pointed out.
Tyrion nodded to her. "Yes, but my father has always had a particular hatred for me. I wouldn't put it past him to do such a thing."
"Nevertheless, he has not publicly announced his heir, so we must assume that Casterly Rock falls to you." Robb said. "You and your friends here will travel with Tarly and have Daven hand over the Rock."
Tyrion scoffed. "He'd rather fall on his sword than hand over the castle to your men."
Robb shook his head. "I do not want him to hand the Rock to me. He is to hand it to you so that you become the new lord of Casterly Rock."
Tyrion raised an eyebrow. "In name only I suppose. I suspect you have numerous others lining up to become lord of the Westerlands."
Robb shrugged, passing over a folder to Tyrion, who opened it and began reading it. "That is a list of titles and the new lords of the Westerlands." Robb explained. "Many died, and I've had my friend Samwell go over the most current list of families as well as the deaths in the war. Furthermore, Tommen shall become your heir. I had a moment to see him once again when he was handed over to me from the Targaryens. He's young and naive, but he should do fine as your heir."
"You're giving Tarly Lannisport." Tyrion interrupted, looking up.
Robb nodded. "Included in that folder is how our new government shall be formed. Each Lord Paramount shall have a council similar to my own to help govern. You yourself shall be named Lord Paramount of the Westerlands, a primarily political role. One you should be well suited for if the rumors are true. As for Randyll Tarly, he shall be named Warden in the Westerlands, the military counterpart to the Lord Paramount. He shouldn't interfere with your work. I have a job for him that will keep him quite busy." he explained easily.
Tyrion nodded slowly, his eyes quickly scanning over the details of the new form of government. He seemed impressed, which made Robb proud. Margaery and Olenna had worked hard to put the system together and Robb was surprised that it had not already been introduced.
"I see." Tyrion said.
Robb turned to Bronn, who was pouring himself another glass of wine and looked quite bored with the meeting. "I have even found a place for your friend Bronn. I have spoken to the Hound, and he has no wish to take over the lordship of his family Keep. Therefore, I am able to offer the place to you, Bronn."
The sellsword raised an eyebrow, but shrugged. "Sure."
"I must admit, your grace, this is well done." Tyrion said, closing the folder. "I am rather surprised others haven't come up with it already."
"I mean to bring good change throughout the realm, and I intend to start as soon as possible." Robb answered, standing up to walk over to a nearby table where a small collection of items sat. He picked one up, putting his back to Tyrion as he spoke. "As an experienced politician, would you not say that it is like war?"
Tyrion raised an eyebrow, glancing towards the queen, who was regarding the Imp with a curious look. He looked back at Robb, who still hadn't turned around. He nodded. "I suppose so."
"When I first fought your brother at the Whispering Wood, I took a risk. When I traveled south to treat with Renly Baratheon, I took a risk. After your father defeated me at Harrenhal and I made a stand at High Heart, I took a risk. When I met the Targaryens in open combat, I took a risk. War is won through risks, and I have taken many to get to where I am now." he explained, turning around finally. He tossed what was in his hand towards Tyrion, who caught it. He looked down and was unable to hold back his surprise as he found himself looking at the Hand of the King pin. The very same one he had worn for months while his father had fought the Young Wolf in the Riverlands.
He looked up, meeting Robb's clear blue eyes. "Why?" he asked, the only word that came to his mind.
"My brother and sister both spoke well for you." Robb responded, retaking his seat. "Jon said that you were witty and sarcastic, but also quite realistic. Sansa spoke very highly of you, how you defended her from Joffrey and generally kept the capitol together as Cersei and her son tried their best to tear it apart. Willas has praised your intelligence to the stars. My other allies, and indeed my wife, are very skeptical of the appointment, but I am taking a risk." he said, leaning forward, gazing steadily at Tyrion. "Did I make the right one?"
Line Break
Robb and his wife sat around the table with eight men, some of which were enemies just a few days ago. Robb and Margaery had been very careful on where they placed each man. Robb's father was placed on Robb's right, and the rest followed in this order: Doran Martell, Rodrik Harlaw, Tyrion Lannister, Willas Tyrell, Harrold Arryn, Edmure Tully, and finally Lord Bryce Caron sat on Margaery's left, while the queen herself sat on Robb's left.
Robb had to be very particular where each man sat. He had employed his two most level headed men, his father and Willas, to bookend the area where his former enemies had sat. Normally, it would have been unwise to place a man of the Reach next to an ironborn, but Willas had managed it with exceptional grace, as he always does.
"My lords, thank you for joining me today." Robb said, standing up to start the meeting. "I have called you all here today because I require your assistance as we put the realm back together. There are vacancies that need to be addressed in each realm, and I would hear your thoughts on who should fill them."
"We understand that this is the job of Lord Paramounts," Margaery said, adding her voice to her husbands. "This is how the meeting will be conducted. The king will go around the table, asking each lord if there are seats that need to be filled, and who they believe will fill them."
Robb nodded. "Instead of meeting with you all individually, I have decided to see it all done in one meeting." he explained. "I understand that we are not all friends," he said, glancing towards Harlaw, Tyrion, and Doran, "but I expect there to be civility among you all, regardless of past deeds. Am I understood?"
A murmur of agreement went around the table as Robb retook his seat, gesturing to his father. "Father, please."
Eddard nodded. Robb had already sent notes to all men present to have a list of names already written down for who will take up what seat. Then, when Robb holds his first court, the positions will be officially announced.
"Thankfully, most of the seats are easy to fill thanks to the Company of the Rose." Eddard said. "The Dreadfort, Barrowtown, and the Rills shall go to Dannis Dustin, Maxar Bolton, and Carsen Ryder."
"Ryder?" Edmure asked curiously. "I thought the Ryswell's ruled the Rills?"
"House Ryder is….was an extinct northern house." Tyrion explained. "It seems many of the once extinct northern houses have stayed alive through the company."
Eddard nodded to the dwarf. "Lord Tyrion is correct. House Ryswell was formed after the arrival of House Targaryen, and such were never part of the creation of the Company."
"Is there anything else father?" Robb asked.
"Because of the mysterious disappearance of my son Bran, the title of heir falls to my youngest, Rickon. My cousin Derren shall take up the position as Master of Moat Cailin and Dacey Mormont shall become Lady of Bear Island. For House Whitehill, their male line was killed during the storming of the Dreadfort, leaving only Gwyn Whitehill as the only surviving member of her house. Asher Forrester, second son of Lord Gregor Forrester, will take her for wife and take Highpoint as his seat."
"What about the other families that have returned with the Company of the Rose?" Harrold asked curiously.
"For Umbers, Mormonts, Karstarks, and all others, they shall return to their family home, and I will leave the current lords to decide what will be done with their newly returned cousins. For the once-extinct houses like Redstarks, Greystarks, and Fishers, I shall find them castles and seats in the North close to where they once ruled." Eddard explained. "They will be run down holdfasts, but thankfully the company has saved up a lot of gold and will be able to rebuild these castles back to their former glory."
Robb nodded. "Perfect." he said, looking towards Prince Doran. "Prince Doran, if you'd please."
The partially crippled prince nodded. "I have only a few changes, your grace. Cletus Yronwood shall take up his role as Lord of Yronwood after the death of his father Anders. Other than that, all the lords of the Dorne remain intact. The only seat that remains a concern is Starfall."
"Why is that?" Willas asked.
"The Lord of Starfall died during the war, before Daenerys Targaryen ever set foot on Westeros. He was an old man. His son, Edric, was a squire for Lord Dondarrion, who has also disappeared."
"Beric's master-at-arms rallied the men of Blackhaven when Renly called his banners." Bryce Caron added. "We never knew what happened to the man himself."
"I sent him to lead a group to arrest the Mountain." Eddard said quietly. "I know not what happened. I was betrayed and arrested after they left."
"The Brotherhood without Banners." Edmure said. "Lord Beric must be leading them. Lord Dayne might be with them."
"Speak with Ser Brynden. Catching the brotherhood must now be a main priority." Robb said, nodding to his uncle. He turned to Prince Doran. "If Lord Edric is alive, then I will have him sent to Starfall to take up his place as lord. If he is not, then I will leave you to decide who shall take over the castle."
"If I may, your grace, if the boy is not alive, what will happen to Dawn?" Eddard asked carefully.
Prince Doran rubbed his jaw. "That is a good question, Lord Stark. I will think most carefully on this. May I ask why you are curious?"
"Ser Arthur was a great man." Eddard explained. "One of the finest Swords of the Morning. I would hate to see the blade fall to a man who is unworthy of wielding it."
"I share your concern, Lord Stark." Doran said. "But the decision must wait until we determine what has happened to Edric Dayne."
Eddard nodded, ending the conversation. Robb looked between the two men, making they had nothing else to say before going on to the next man.
"Lord Rodrik, it is your turn." Robb said.
The man known as the 'Reader' nodded. "Denys Drumm will take up his seat of Old Wyk." he started, glancing towards Robb. "He thought about stealing his ancestral sword back, but I persuaded the lad against it. Dunstan lost the sword through combat, and the boy had to understand that."
"I appreciate that. The sword is now in the hands of one of my most capable warriors. I would hate for someone to die doing something stupid." Robb said.
Rodrik nodded. "Other than that, there is nothing else. My one question is: what will happen to Asha Greyjoy?"
All eyes turned to Robb, whose gaze rested firmly on Rodrik Harlaw. "She will be released." he said finally.
Harrold Arryn frowned. "I mean no offense, your grace, but is that wise?"
Eddard nodded. "The girl is currently residing in a cell at Deepwood Motte. She followed her father's orders, but she also had honor. Sybelle Glover and her children are only alive because of Asha Greyjoy."
"The Greyjoys are no longer rulers of the Iron Islands." Robb explained. "Asha Greyjoy will be Lady of Pyke, but Lord Paramount and Warden of the Iron Islands fall to Rodrik and his heir, Ser Harras."
Rodrik nodded. "I have nothing else, your grace."
"What will happen to the Iron Fleet?" Lord Caron asked curiously.
"As per the king's, the Iron Fleet has been separated and destroyed." Harlaw explained. "All crews and captains have been forced to give up their ships, most of which have gone over to House Redwyne to rebuild their fleet. The rest are going to the North…." he said, looking at Lord Stark to finish.
"The remaining longships shall go the Fishers, Hawkers, and Mormonts." Father explained.
Robb nodded. "Lord Tyrion, you are next." Robb said, moving down the table.
The little lord glanced at the parchment in front of him before addressing the table. "I'm not sure if his grace has said, but Lannisport has been gifted to Lord Randyll Tarly to take as his seat. He will also be taking on the title of Warden of the Westerlands."
Everyone nodded, accepting the fact. Robb had made sure to disperse proper information to his Lord Paramounts about how the new ruling structure would work. Lord Paramounts would handle the day-to-day problems of governance, while Wardens would deal with military problems and lead armies. In most cases, Lord Paramounts and Wardens were the same person. The only places where that wasn't the case was the Reach, Westerlands, Stormlands, and Dorne. In the Reach, Willas was Lord Paramount while Garlan was Warden. In the Stormlands, Lord Caron was Warden while Ser Courtney Penrose was acting Lord Paramount until Edric Storm, now Edric Baratheon, is old enough to take on both responsibilities. And in Dorne, Robb allowed them to keep their government independence.
Robb glanced around the table, happy that the government that Margaery and he had created was so widely accepted. "Please continue, my lord." he said, gesturing to Tyrion.
"Sandor Clegane has refused to take over Clegane Keep, and so my friend Bronn, a sellsword under my employ, shall be taking that as his seat. As for the other houses, Tytos Brax is now Lord of Hornvale, Addam Marbrand is Lord of Ashemark, and other than that, there is nothing else."
"Lord Willas." Robb said, pleased that things were going so smoothly.
Margaery's brother nodded. "Thank you, your grace. With Lord Randyll's departure, his son Dickon has been raised to Lord of Horn Hill." he looked back over his notes once more before nodding. "That should do it. My one question is the Florents. Axell and Alester are still imprisoned in Highgarden and I believe that there are a few more currently imprisoned in Riverrun?"
Edmure nodded. "A few cousins who survived the Battle of High Heart." he confirmed.
Robb scratched his jaw. "I will have them all sent to the Wall." he decided.
Willas frowned. "What of their wives, your grace? And Alekyne Florent, Alester's son?"
"One of my protectors is Ser Parmen Crane, whom I believe is related to Alester's wife. Perhaps the boy can squire for the knight and his mother may go back to Red Lake." Margaery answered.
Robb nodded. "A wonderful idea." he said happily. "The wives and families of Alester and Axell, as well as the cousins at Riverrun, may go back to their original house."
Willas nodded, making a small note. "Of course, your grace. Who will receive Brightwater."
"Garlan." Robb said firmly. "He's more than earned it."
Willas couldn't help but smile a little. "Of course, your grace." he said happily. "That is all."
Robb turned to Harrold. "Lord Arryn, please." he said, gesturing to the young lord.
Harrold glanced at the table, clearing his throat. "Of course," he said. "With the death of Lord Horton, the Redfort falls to his heir, Ser Jasper." he said slowly. "That is all, your grace."
Robb nodded, smiling. "Thank you, my lord. Lord Edmure, you are next."
Edmure nodded happily. "Thank you, your grace." he said. "Fortunately, most of my bannermen get to return home. Unfortunately, the two houses currently without a leader are House Bracken and House Frey. Lord Jonos only had daughters and most of House Frey has been sent to the Wall by my uncle, leaving Ser Nolan Rivers as castellan of the castle."
"I believe I have an answer for the Frey's." Robb said. "Olyvar Frey is still in my service. I will no doubt knight him soon. I very much like for him to have a worthy match when he takes up as Lord of the Twins."
"Myranda Royce might be a good match, my lord." Harrold offered. "She is the daughter of Ser Nestor, the Knight of the Gate."
"Wasn't she married?" Edmure asked.
Harrold hesitated, but Eddard stepped in. "She was." he replied. "But he was an old man who died on their wedding night. The maester's say that his heart just stopped. She is still young and quite lively if Yohn is right."
Robb nodded. "I will talk with Olyvar about this. But Myranda Royce will be kept in mind." he promised.
"My lords, if I may." Margaery said. "I believe I may have a solution for House Bracken. Lucas Blackwood the second son of Lord Tytos. If he were to marry Lord Bracken's eldest daughter, then that would mend the rift between the two houses."
Edmure grinned at the queen. "An excellent idea, your grace." he praised. "If Lucas were to take on the name Bracken, then all would be fixed."
"Speak to Lucas on this, would you uncle?" Robb asked. "This would be a momentous occasion and Lucas is a great man."
Edmure nodded. "Of course, your grace. I will speak to him at once."
Robb turned to the final man, Lord Caron. Technically, he was not Lord Paramount of the Stormlands, but because Edric Storm was too young, he was the next best option.
"There is not much to say, your grace." he admitted. "Lord Gulian Swann died in his bed some time during the war, but Ser Donnel can easily step in and take his father's place. Aemon Estermont is now Lord of Greenstone. With the planned legitimization of Edric Storm, that only leaves Blackhaven without a lord." Lord Caron explained.
"Did Lord Dondarrion have any nephews or brothers that we know about?" Robb asked.
Lord Caron shook his head. "He was an only child, I'm afraid. Lady Allyria, Beric's betrothed, is currently lady of Blackhaven, but she was never married to Beric nor had any children with him."
Robb tapped the table thoughtfully. "An unfortunate case to be sure," he muttered. He looked at Margaery. "Do you have any thoughts, my dear?"
Margaery nodded slowly. "If Lord Dondarrion is found dead, why not legitimize Lady Allyria as Lady of Blackhaven, and allow her to take on the Dondarrion name. If we allow her to remarry, then the house of Dondarrion can continue."
Caron nodded. "A sound plan, your grace," he said respectfully.
Margaery graced the Stormlord with a pleasant smile. "Thank you, my lord."
"Are there any issues in the Crownlands that need to be addressed?" Lord Tyrion asked, looking at Robb.
"What of Dragonstone?" Edmure asked.
Robb shared a look with Margaery, who nodded back. Robb sighed and looked around the table at the faces staring back at him.
"I intend to give it to Daenerys Targaryen."
Everyone around the table, save for Robb's father and wife, were in utter disbelief. Robb had just fought a massive battle with the woman, and now he wanted to give her a castle.
"Your grace!" Edmure said, struggling for words. "This is….is…."
"I know exactly what it is, uncle." Robb said, cutting him off. "I understand what you all are thinking, but allow me to explain. First and foremost, Jon Connington tried to have me killed. Daenerys had nothing to do with that. Second," he said, looking towards Doran Martell, "Prince Doran, is there any madness within the girl? You've spent the most time with her than anyone at this table."
The Prince of Dorne shook his head. "I saw no traces of insanity, your grace. Dorne would not have supported her and her nephew if we had."
Robb nodded. "I believe that Daenerys is a good person, and although her family has lost the right to rule Westeros, Dragonstone still belongs to her family, just as Winterfell belongs to mine and Casterly Rock belongs to the Lannisters. The Dragons are another reason. We cannot keep them in the godswood."
"You want to set them free as well?" Tyrion asked.
Margaery nodded. "On Dragonstone, they would have a lot of space to fly and hunt away from civilization."
"And when they grow?" Bryce Caron asked.
"Daenerys will not be able to stay alive long enough to ride dragons like the Conqueror had," Willas explained. "Her dragons now are just a few years old."
Robb leaned forward. "My lords, please understand. I will have a long talk with Daenerys about many things. First and foremost is that if her dragons kill any innocent soul then they will die. Second is that she no longer has a claim to the Iron Throne or Westeros. That claim was destroyed thanks to the actions of Aerys, Rhaegar, and Connington."
"Is a second chance the best choice, your grace?" Harrold asked.
Robb turned to Tyrion, who was watching the king with a thoughtful and intrigued expression. "I am taking a risk," he said, "but I can not blame the child for the crimes of their father."
Tyrion nodded, understanding what Robb was hinting at. Robb looked around the room. "Perhaps, by the end of her life, Daenerys can turn around her house and leave a better legacy than what she was left with."
Doran coughed. "If I may add, your grace. I am afraid the girl can't give birth." he said awkwardly.
All eyes instantly turned to Doran, who was looking down at his hands in shame. It was obvious that he was hesitant to give up any more information, but he had started and now he had to continue.
"How did this happen?" Eddard asked.
Doran shook his head. "There was an incident in Essos, if Varys is correct, but I am not sure. All I know is that she has lost the ability to conceive."
Robb resisted the urge to look at his father. They both knew the truth. Everyone believed that Daenerys was the last Targaryen, and indeed the girl thought it too. No one except for Robb, his father, Howland, Samwell, and Jon knew the truth.
"We will wait and keep an eye on how this develops. But for now, let's give the girl a chance." Robb said slowly.
With the matter settled, Robb looked around the room. "Daenerys will become lady of Dragonstone. Is there anything else that needs to be addressed before we convene the meeting."
"I believe we are done for the day. All I ask is that you deliver official lists to my steward so that I can announce the changes at court tomorrow." Robb said when no one said anything. "I will also announce the King's Council, Kingsguard, and other such positions."
Line Break
"Your graces, he's here." Brienne said.
Robb and Margaery shared a glance before Robb gestured for Brienne to show the man in. When the large woman brought the hooded figure in, Robb nodded again to his captain.
"Please, stay Brienne." Robb asked. "Ser Balon will be fine outside."
The man chuckled. "Do you think so highly of me, Young Wolf?" he asked, his voice gruff, with just a hint of arrogance. The man removed his hood to reveal a dirty, haggard face. His beard had grown full and his hair had become shaggy and tangled. The mud and dirt from the dungeons of Riverrun had turned the man's hair dark blonde. But the eyes, those he could never change. They were still bright green, like emeralds, full of confidence and amusement. On his face was the same smirk he had when he rode into Winterfell all those years ago.
Ser Jaime looked far different than when Robb had seen him in Winterfell and at the Whispering Wood. But from the looks of it, his personality hadn't changed at all. He was still the arrogant golden knight, the man forever known as the Kingslayer.
"You still have both your hands Kingslayer." Robb pointed. "I wouldn't trust you with a spoon."
Ser Jaime laughed. "There's that vaunted Stark hospitality."
"That's saved for people who didn't try to kill my brother." Robb growled. "Sit."
The Lannister knight pulled a seat back and sat down, his eyes landing on the wine pitcher. "Can I bother you for some wine?"
"No." Robb answered immediately, glancing down at a piece of parchment before looking back up. "Your brother made a plea for your life. Normally, I would have you beheaded for fucking your sister alone. Attempted murder of my brother and attacking my father unprovoked just further's the list of your crimes."
"Did you drag me all the way from Riverrun to read me a list of my sins, Stark? Or do you have something you actually want to say to me." he asked boredly, although there was a dangerous light in his eyes.
Robb glared at the tarnished knight, but held his anger in check. "The only reason you are here is because your brother did something for me, and this is me returning the favor." he explained. "Furthermore, you will be the first to hear, your brother shall become Lord of Casterly Rock and Lord Paramount of the Westerlands. Tommen shall be his heir."
Jaime nodded, not looking all that surprised with the news. "Good." he said quietly, all the arrogance he previously had now gone. "Tyrion deserves it more than Cersei or I ever did. Tommen will be a good heir and will become a good lord under Tyrion's guidance."
Robb raised an eyebrow. The sincerity in the knight's voice was obvious. "Tyrion will take the title of Lord Paramount, while the military title of Warden shall go to another."
Jaime once again nodded. "Smart. Tyrion's biggest advantage has always been his mind, not his sword arm. That was always my talent."
Robb shared a look with Margaery before continuing. "With that out of the way, I brought you here to ask you two questions. The first, why did you kill the Mad King?"
Jaime shrugged. "You knew the tales of the man, was that not reason enough?" he asked, his voice bitter now as he was reminded of his most infamous achievement.
"Understandable, but rumors are that you killed him on your father's command." Margaery said. "We would hear the truth from you."
Jaime gazed at the queen, and for the first time, he allowed his true self to show. He was a broken man, who had spent the entirety of the war wallowing in the cells of Riverrun. Defeated at the onset of the war by the Young Wolf and was only allowed to sit and think of how low his reputation had dropped in the last twenty years. In that time, his failures as a man, a knight, a kingsguard were all he had to think about. It had left him bitter and angry, angry with himself.
"You want to know why I killed that mad man? This is why. Aerys Targaryen raped his wife after every time he burned a man. Daenerys Targaryen is a spawn of rape! I watched that man kill and rape at his pleasure, and while my knightly vows told me to defend the weak, fight back against tyranny, my vows as a kingsguard prevented me from doing a damn thing. 'We are sworn to defend the king, not judge him'. That is what Ser Gerold Hightower said to me after the burning of your grandfather." Jaime snarled. "At the end of the rebellion, while my father was sacking the city and the Mountain was killing the royal family, do you know what the Mad King did. He sent his Hand, a pyromancer named Rossart, to ignite wildfyre caches that he had set out throughout the city. Under each gate, under each main road, under the great sept and dragon pit. The man was going to blow the city to hell and take everyone with it. The man probably thought was going to be able to turn himself into a dragon or some other sort of madness. When I saw the king give the order, I followed Rossart out of the room and put my sword through his back. When I came back in the room, I put my sword through Aerys' back as well. I broke my vow for the most honorable of reasons, I saved half a million people, the populace alone, and your father called me Kingslayer!" Jaime roared, standing slightly. Brienne stepped forward, half drawing her blade, but Robb held up a hand to stop her. Jaime continued, his voice coming back to a normal volume. "That, my lady, is why I killed the Mad King."
"Aerys was going to blow up the city?" Margaery said, the blood draining from her face. "Did you ever say anything?"
Jaime shook his head. "No. it would cause a mass panic. Besides, it deteri….detori…." he said, trying to find the word.
"Deteriorates?" Robb offered.
Jaime nodded. "That one."
Margaery shook her head sadly. "No, it doesn't. It grows more unstable as time goes on."
Robb glanced at his wife. "You're saying there's barrels of wildfyre hidden in the city?"
The fear in Margaery's eyes told the young king all he needed to know. Robb shot to his feet.
"Ser Balon!" he shouted.
The stormlander knight burst into the room, his sword drawn. Robb held up a hand to stall the man. "Get Lady Olenna, my father, Varys, and Lord Tyrion." he ordered.
"Get Willas as well, along with any maester you can find and the leader of the pyramancery guild." Margaery added. "Immediately."
The knight nodded and ran off, running as fast as his feet could carry him. Margaery put her hand on Robb's, looking up at him. Robb turned to Brienne. "Brienne." he said, his voice brokering no room for argument. "Send word out to the army and have them ready to move. Have word spread throughout the city to have them ready to leave. Prepare as many ships as we can."
Margaery shook her head. "We can't do that Robb." she said. "We can't cause a panic, not now. Let us try to resolve this before we do anything rash."
"You said so yourself, the wildfyre could…." he tried to argue, but Margaery squeezed his hand, stopping him.
"It's been hidden for over twenty years. It can wait another day. But we need to know if we can get it taken care of first." she pressed.
Robb looked into her eyes, the two sharing a silent debate which Margaery won. The Young Wolf nodded and slowly retook his seat. "Fine." he said quietly, turning his attention back to Ser Jaime. "We will deal with the wildfyre situation." he said. "But I have one other question."
The Kingslayer seemed to be in shock over the wildfyre scare. For years, the only consolation that he had when he killed the Mad King was that he saved the city from being blown up. As it turns out, he had put the city under a suspension of death.
"Ser Jaime." Robb snapped. "You made a mistake, now get over it."
The Kingslayer shook his head, gazing unnervingly at Robb. "What?"
Robb glanced at Brienne and gestured to the door. "Hold anyone outside. This will only be a moment." he ordered. The large woman nodded and walked out, closing the door behind her. Margaery glanced at her husband, curious to see what he had to ask the man.
"You said that you didn't know which vow to uphold. Your knightly vows or your vows as a kingsguard. I want to know: Should they be one in the same?" Robb asked.
Jaime's head snapped up, now alert. "What do you mean?"
Robb gestured towards the door. "After hearing your story, I want to make sure there is never a chance where a Kingsguard is forced to pick between the innocent and his king. What I am asking is….should a Kingsguard be able to kill his king if for the betterment of the realm?"
Margaery grabbed Robb's arm, but the Young Wolf had his gaze firmly fixed on the Kingslayer, who was meeting the young man's gaze. "You would allow your sworn swords to defy you?"
Robb nodded. "I never want to put them in a position where they are forced to choose between vows," he explained. "You broke your vow to your king to uphold your oath as a knight."
Jaime nodded slowly. "I see. I was a part of what might have been the greatest kingsguard ever assembled. Ser Barristan the Bold, Ser Gerold Hightower, Prince Lewyn Martell, Ser Arthur Dayne, the Sword in the Morning. And then, I was a member of what could be considered the worst collection of kingsguard in over three hundred years. Most of them were political appointments for Cersei, knights under her employee. Men like Meryn Trant and Preston Greenfield. There were a few good ones, Oakheart and Moore, but it was a terrible group of men." the knight had a far off look in his eye as he spoke about the various knights he had been around. "I will give you this, Stark…."
Line Break
The sky outside had turned from light blue to shades of orange and purple as the sunset and the night emerged. Robb and Margaery had been sitting in the chambers all day, meeting with all sorts of groups. Their last meeting had been rushed, but it had to be. Varys, Tyrion, and Samwell Tarly would begin immediate work on locating the wildfyre, along with finding ways to destroy it. Robb's father, Willas, and others would help tomorrow. Robb needed them once more before the night was out.
The door opened suddenly, allowing Daenerys Targaryen, followed by Barristan Selmy and Jorah Mormont to walk in. Both knights wore normal clothes and were completely unarmed. Daenerys herself wore a cream-colored dress and had the same silver dragon choker around her throat.
"Robb." she said simply, standing across from him.
"Please, sit." Robb said quietly. "I have troubling news. It involves your father." he said, nodding to Daenerys.
The silver-haired girl gave Robb a bored, exasperated look. "What great sin have you accused him of now?"
Robb glared at her. "Your father planned on blowing up King's Landing." he said bluntly. "He had barrels of wildfyre planted underneath the city. On the day Tywin Lannister sacked the city, Aerys ordered the head of the pyromancer's guild to ignite the barrels."
Daenerys went to say something, but Robb held up a hand to stop her.
"I have already tasked my allies with securing the barrels." Robb continued. "Every precaution will be taken to ensure the safety of the citizens of this city, my men, and the prisoners."
Daenerys nodded slowly. It was obvious that she was trying to overcome her shock in order to keep the conversation going. Thankfully, Ser Barristan stepped in and asked the question that Daenerys was going to.
"Why have you called us here, my lord." he asked politely.
"With Aegon's and Connington's death, that leaves only Daenerys." Robb said. "The sellswords, the dornish, and the crownlanders have all laid down their swords and surrendered fully to myself. The remaining companies will be sent back to Essos. The crownlanders and the dornish will be allowed home without repercussions. All that leaves is your Unsullied."
"How many are left?" Daenerys asked quietly.
"About five hundred." Robb answered. "Once my men broke their ranks….it didn't go well."
"So what are you going to do?" Daenerys asked bitterly. "Am I your war trophy?"
Robb couldn't help but have flashbacks of his fight with Aegon. Those had been his exact same words, and the way in which they were spoken was uncanny. The bitterness of defeat was obvious. It was as if they felt like a rare animal about to be caged and put in display.
Robb had no intention of caging anyone.
"You had no part in the attempt on myself or my son." Robb said, keeping his voice neutral. "Your only fault was backing your nephew, and even then, it's understandable. So if you are wondering whether I will have you killed or imprisoned….the answer is no."
"No?" Daenerys said, not sounding convinced.
Robb shook his head. "I am not Tywin Lannister, nor am I Robert Baratheon. I do not hate you for who you are and I do not want to kill you because you fought against me."
"What will be done with me then?" Daenerys asked.
"You will be given Dragonstone." Robb said. "You, the two knights by your side, your Unsullied, and your dragons will be allowed to take the island as your own, but," Robb held up a hand, "I require something from you."
"What?" Daenerys asked.
"An oath of fealty." Robb said firmly. "And a promise that you will not leave your island for five years."
"You are asking me to give up my crown, my claim to the throne, and to accept a prison sentence where I am a prisoner in my own home." Daenerys said, summarizing Robb's words. "What if I say no?"
"Your dragons are dead." Robb replied immediately. "The Unsullied will be deported back to Astapor, and every supporter you have will be sent to the Wall or executed."
Robb hated himself as the words came out, but he knew that it was the only way to convince Daenerys to agree to his first offer. He knew how much her dragons meant to her, and he was well aware of her relationship with the eunuch warriors and her knights. They were all she had left now after the battle. Even her dothraki had been wiped out to the last man.
"Those are your two choices, Daenerys." Robb said. "Believe me when I say that I am being generous. There is no one else inside the castle or even within a hundred miles of the city that wants those dragons alive. But I will warn you now," Robb leaned forward, "if you lose control of your dragons, I will not hesitate to kill them. We both know it's possible."
Daenerys leaned back in her seat, crossing her arms. Her mouth was screwed shut in an angry line, but Robb had intentionally placed her between a rock and a hard place. She, and her remaining followers and dragons would remain alive, but confined to an island that was limited with resources.
"How do I know that I can trust you?" Daenerys asked finally.
"Because anyone else wouldn't be giving you this option." Robb said. "You're a good person, Daenerys. You have good people advising you. You believed in peace as much as I did. What I'm doing now; it's all in the name of peace."
The last Targaryen looked at the knights on either side of her. Ser Jorah looked sour, but didn't seem opposed to the offer. Ser Barristan, on the other hand, seemed relieved that Robb wasn't going to kill the girl.
"I would have your answer." Robb said.
Line Break
Robb was in his final meeting of the day, and it was the one he was more nervous about, even more so than the Martell's and Danaerys. He was surrounded by the smartest people he knew; Willas, Olenna, his father, and as always, Margaery was at his side.
"Thank you all for coming." Robb said tiredly, running a hand through his hair. He was amongst family, and knew that he could drop the facade of a strong king just a bit. "I understand that it is late, but I would hear your opinions."
Willas nodded. "Of course," he said easily. "How can we help?"
Margaery placed her hand over Robb's squeezing it reassuringly. The young king picked up a report from in front of him and passed it to his father who sat on his right. "These are who I plan on naming to my council and my kingsguard."
Robb's father looked over the list, nodding slightly as he saw who would be given a white cloak. It was when he reached the King's Council, and saw the first name written, did he stop and stare at Robb, stunned.
"Robb?"
But the Young Wolf waved aside his father's question. "Keep reading and pass it along. I will answer questions after everyone has seen my decisions."
Eddard sighed and quickly looked over the rest of the list before passing it along to Lady Olenna, who looked at both Robb and his father before looking over the sheet, not showing any response to the names listed. After passing it to her grandson did she put both hands on the top of her cane, sighing as well.
That made two people who did not look all that pleased with the list, and Robb knew that it was one name that made them question the entire thing.
Willas raised an eyebrow when he went over the list, but said nothing. He alone didn't look all that fazed by the list, which didn't surprise Robb. Willas had always been one of the more open minded men Robb had ever come across.
When he gave the list to Margaery, she put it face down on the table, folding her free hand in her lap as all eyes were on Robb, who was leaning on the armrest of his chair, gazing at the table.
"Robb….are you sure?" Father asked finally.
Robb nodded slowly. "I am." he said. "Father, you always told me that to be a good ruler, I had to put the best people in the positions I needed them. I'm doing that."
Eddard sighed. "Robb, you're going to name Tyrion Lannister as your Hand. What are the repercussions?"
"What are the repercussions if I don't?" Robb asked, looking around the table. "If there was anyone else, then I would take them, but there's not. Willas," Robb said, turning to his good brother, "you are the only man capable of matching Tyrion's intellect, but you are needed in the Reach."
Willas nodded. "I appreciate the compliment, your grace, but I do not share Lord Stark's apprehensions. I spent the last few days with Lord Tyrion and can say that he is possibly the best man, besides his late father, to be Hand of the King in quite some time." he said, nodding to Lord Stark. "No offense."
Eddard waved aside the apology. "It's alright." he said. "I was not meant for the south. I will not lie."
"Your grace, Lord Tyrion is smart, amazingly so, with a mind for politics. I will not withhold praise from my sister and grandmother, who will also be on your council, but Lord Tyrion is just as smart as they are and twice as ruthless. Let us be honest with ourselves, that will be needed here." Willas continued.
"What about Casterly Rock?" Margaery asked, looking at Robb.
Robb shook his head. "Tommen will be fine with the help of whomever Tyrion leaves as castellan. After all, Tywin ruled for two decades with the Mad King." he looked around the table. "Are there any other appointments that should be further looked at?"
Eddard shook his head. "Your kingsguard is solid." he said. "Good, honorable knights one and all. Brienne as your lord commander will be odd to others, but I can think of none better. I see shades of Barristan Selmy in her. The others are used to taking orders from her as well. That power dynamic is already in place, thankfully."
Lady Olenna nodded. "Indeed. The others on your council are good choices as well. Lady Anya is an interesting choice for Master of Coin, as is Alec Reed."
"Alec Reed is the spy master for the Company of the Rose." Eddard explained. "He's system is nearly as vast as the Spider's, and he's currently working on flipping as many of Baelish's sources as he can."
"Willas was my first choice for Master of Coin," Robb said. "But as I've said, he's needed in the Reach. Lady Anya is highly favored amongst her countrymen, especially Lord's Royce and the late Lord Redfort."
"What of the northerners?" Willas asked. "I saw that you had all the realms represented save for the Iron Islands and Dorne, for obvious reasons. The only northerner I saw on your list was Eyan Hawker, your captain of the household guard."
Robb nodded. "I will watch out for northern interest," he said. "Besides, I doubt there's a northerner who would want to be here not named Manderly."
"Eyan Hawker is a third son and is known to be quite observant and quick-thinking. We believe that he will make a fine captain." Margaery explained. "For Dorne and the Iron Islands, Prince Oberyn will remain in the capitol to ensure that Dorne has a voice even though it will remain somewhat independent from the Iron Throne. As for the Iron Islands, they have been decimated by the battles in the North, the Reach, and on the islands themselves. It will be years before Lord Harlaw can rebuild the islands."
"He means to make them more of a trading post in the Sunset Sea." Robb continued. "When they gain more power, Margaery and I will take the necessary steps to maintain a firm hand on them."
"Well, your graces," Lady Olenna sighed, "I must say, I am rather intrigued to see how this works out."
Robb smiled slightly. "My lady, you helped put many of these changes in place. I have a feeling that everything will work out just fine."