The North. Winterfell-
-Glassware of the Winter Rose-
Since she had memory, Cersei had been educated with various things. The first is that the Lannister house is above all things. There is no house that could be compared to them. His father had shown him a long time ago that only the family was important and that the others were enemies. That's why she knew that when it came to daily life the enemies were all those who could be considered a danger and threat to the family's legacy and for the first time in her life she was seeing a real threat to the family if she had to be frank what was beyond strange.
When his father told him that they would leave for the North for Lord Stark's wedding, he complained about his reasons? First I wanted above all to get to be queen once and for all. She was the most beautiful woman of the seven kingdoms. His golden blonde hair. His emerald green eyes. His body of hourglass figure. I had everything. There was nothing and no one better than her. And despite all the attempts to achieve it, the prince had wholeheartedly refused to marry her of all things. That was not only an insult to her as a woman from the Lannister house but also as a woman herself. It made her feel bad. And I hated him with passion and reality.
On the other hand, when her father told her that she would come, she knew that something had happened. He didn't realise it until he saw the Twin Wolves where the moat was before. The twin castles had a different structure more similar to the valyria. Spherical walls that surrounded them with a smooth white colour, which was surprising. Inside the walls there were many structures. It was not too difficult to know that they were homes and also taverns of all kinds as well as places to eat. And in the centre two large towers that were launched as the so-called towers of Valyria only wider and larger. No one knew why they were inspired but they were terrifying.
Each wall had ten defensive towers designed to have a considerable number of soldiers from what could be seen. It was like seeing a restructuring of what was a great fortress. Of course, the large bridge that was there preventing any boat from passing also showed that it was a good system. I had seen ships go and come from west to east and vice versa. The one who became the lord of this place would become rich because of his position if you stop to think about it. But that was only the beginning of their new fear since then they walked north with their escort. He never thought that the north despite its cold could be so unique in reality and it was a bad thought in his mind.
They found out that there were many more constructions. They saw Cerwyn Castle that was once according to his uncle Gerion a small structure now was a large form of castle embedded in the mountain wall and that as if that were not enough were about ten different levels with a small city that was built right on the river and that from what she could see was basically a small harbour. This surprised her in many ways since she did not know that there were more cities in the north. But the city, although they passed closely and stayed, impressed it a lot, which was already very bad news since the wolves were supposed to be retarded. But nothing could prepare her for the jewel of the North.
Wintertown was a large spherical city instead of the rectangular one of what was King's landing. Another big difference in this regard with the other big city is the number of towers that were on the wall. And that was not all because there was a second wall higher than the first with the same number of towers. The walls were made of a black stone that looked like marble. So smooth and unique but at the same time he was not stupid enough to say that the wall would be so hard if not more than the granite. The doors are the same. Between each defensive wall there was a well so as is natural she was sure that an attack would at best be a complete waste of time.
Then he saw the city itself. The city was perhaps twice as large as the capital of the kingdom, which was incredible to know. As if that wasn't enough at least in his mind all the houses were quite well done. At first he thought they were made of wood and went to mock until he saw one under construction and realised that they were made of stone and then covered with wood. As if that wasn't enough, they had glass windows, which made her even more jealous, so to speak. Before going to stay in the imposing Stark fortress that, according to her, was in the centre of the big city, she went to what was rumoured to be the main glassware.
The Winter Rose clearly offered a large amount of glass material. From what I could see. There was everything and what was worse in his mind is that they offered what the personalised creation mark was said. For the first time in a long time Cersei felt jealous. How had the Stark house managed to build a powerful force to be taken into account in this way? Why had no other kingdom benefitted? She thought she could say something about this. Let him know but well if they had it it was difficult to see that nothing more could be done about it in the seven kingdoms.
"You have to admit that the Stark house has had to have a good stroke of luck to end up the way it is. Not only the two castles that are the line of Defence of the North but in addition to that they have so many advanced castles. Cerwyn Castle would make some of our castles look insignificant at best and the less you say about this place the better.'' Jaime already liked the place. It didn't smell like King's Landing which was good and as if that wasn't enough he saw something more important: order.
"It's not that good. Only the glassware I have seen in the store can be enough to cause serious problems to the other kingdoms. If they sell it through the seven kingdoms, each house will want from them. And from what I saw, personalised orders are first-class''. Cersei couldn't believe what she had actually seen. She was of the opinion that the North had been lucky. But she was sure that if the Lannister house did well they would have these crystal masters after all. Who would rather work in the north than in the south?
"Don't think about what you have in your head cousin. Trying to convince one of these people to go south would be a complete shitstorm. The North will not treat its workers like complete shit while if you allow me to say it your father will dedicate himself firmly and safely to screw their lives in every way to make it clear to them that they were below him''. Cerenna looked with interest at everything that was there, what else could not be about? The South had always disdained the North. It seemed that they were not only wrong but that they were in serious trouble.
"I can't believe in any way that you're happy with this. The North may now have a lot of money but how could they keep workers in what the North is when the South can clearly offer them better working conditions?'' Of course, with better working conditions he only referred to the heat. The lands of the North contributed certain things such as that the lord would not crush them and would keep most of the money.
"Obviously you are blind, do you really think that the people who are in the North would leave their kingdom in favour of another? Even more a kingdom in which they would have a rope around their necks and in which if they do not walk with an eye they would be doomed before they realise it? You can say a lot about the northerners wanted cousin but none of them is an idiot and believe me when I say that there are more chances that they will stay here than to travel to the south where they will be tortured by their secrets''. Cersei was short-sighted. He seemed to think that people would bow to them by their name.
"But couldn't they work better in the south? That is to say in our lands they would have the resources of the Lannister house and well the father always rewards those who are loyal to him''. Jaime couldn't understand what they refused. His father could be a little tyrant but he rewarded those who were loyal to him. However, I could see the look of a person who was clearly trying to contain a funny laugh from his cousin.
"Primo at the moment these people went south. They would give the secrets to a lord. And if they expected to win gold, the only thing they would win is a sword in the heart and their corpses being for animals. Do you really think that your father or any lord would tolerate in any way a man who betrayed his master for the golden promise?''. Cerenna had to question Jaime's education if he was unable to realise such a simple plan.
''So the reason why none of these men and women will go to the south is that they know that they will be betrayed by the lords of the south. He talks about the very bad publicity they have from the lords of the south, which I don't think is entirely true.'' Cersei sneered a little but saw the look of the woman in the store. That woman was not afraid of him. If it wasn't for the warning that starting any fight guaranteed the execution that meant that she could have ordered some of the men of the Lannister house to do something to her.
'Well, Cersei, look at the history of not only the seven kingdoms but in addition to that, look at the history of each of the families of the south with the North and you will realise a little that the north has no choice but to tell the southerners to fuck off. There are no more options in this regard if I may say so.'' She was serious about it. There was nothing else that could be done.
"Well, what a shit. But anyway, do you think the father will want to open business with the North about this? Obviously it offers the possibility of doing business so it is the purchase of unique elements. Not only the glass that is of first quality but I have seen more things since we arrived in the city''. Jaime del Norte's opinion was growing.
"It's very possible. But if he expects the North to bow to him for being the hand of the king and the lord of the West, he will quickly learn that he is beyond wrong and that it would be in his best interest not to look for problems with them''. Cerenna was possibly one of the best minds born in the Lannister house. She was a believer that the Lannister house, although powerful, had to start using its head more in this regard than simply moving forward without more.
"It would be the best in your interest. If I have to say it, it would be sad to fight over stupid things.'' A voice sounded at that moment caught the attention of all the Lannisters.
There was a young man with brown skin and platinum hair and violet eyes. It was like mixing a Dorniense with a Valyrio what they had to admit looked good. This was Dareon Rogare. Although he dressed decently with leather pants and boots, he looked dressed in what was a leather jacket and underneath a vest with a shirt that seemed to warm well. Instead of wearing animal skins. If the Lannisters had to be honest, it was a completely different way of dressing from what they would have expected from the North in any case.
"It is very rude to get involved in the conversations of those who are above your position." Cersei didn't waste time looking down at him as if she thought he was in a superior position. The man just gave him a look. But it wasn't the look of a worried person. It was the look of a person that could easily be translated with that it was difficult to put fear in the body of what they thought.
"And it's stupid that you think you're important. You're just your father's daughter. At that moment your only value is as merchandise, no more, no less. Learn to behave in the lands of another lord, especially one who feels that the South is full of vipers whose heads must be cut off and then set fire to their bodies in case the flies''. Dareon mocked clearly not too impressed by the girl. Why should he be? From what the girl could say, she had a right of the being that was full to the top.
"I apologise for my cousin. She has a lot of pride in the house which I don't say is bad but I think she should have been able to easily see that she is in the presence of someone who has obviously been sent by Lord Stark. You just have to look at the looks that people give you''. You didn't have to be an idiot to notice how people looked at him.
"You seem to have good eyes at least. It's true. I'm here on behalf of Lord Stark. He has finished his business conversations with your uncle Lord Gerion Lannister and he hoped they presented where you are going to stay and where your men will make their place. He also wants to show and get a guide to be able to show you better what the city is if you have any interest in it.'' Dareon could practically see the grimace in the girl's eyes.
"Lord Stark then must trust you and judging by the looks that everyone is giving you, I don't have to be a fucking genius to know that you are basically the one in charge of something of great value. We'll follow you so there's nothing to worry about.'' He could see his guards tense up. Cerenna did not lose sight of the man who just nodded and began to move.
And then he noticed the guards who, unlike being ostentatious, who were the Lannisters with their red and gold armour or those of King's Landing with their golden cloaks, these were very different in the way they moved and also the way they dressed with dark gray uniforms and although well armed in any way striking.
"You'd better not stare at them too much. The Winter Guard are very serious about what they do and all of them have been trained to be good at their job. If you look at them too much, they may put in their reports that there are some gossips and that will mark you for life''. Dareon laughed. The guards had been trained to be professional and efficient. His salary was decent and everyone had been made to sign a contract. In exchange for being guards they had a roof, three meals and a salary that was quite decent.
"They look good. Impressive. Pretty decent figures. The outfit surprises me although of course it is much better if I have to say it. A short sword and a knife of what I can say. They don't wear clothes that make it difficult for them to fight and they seem to observe everything in detail.'' The guards did not wear capes like many other guards did. The armour seemed to consist of a gray armour that protected with plates and what seemed to be a mesh armour but instead of wearing a hood they wore a unique helmet. If she had to say it, they also seemed more intimidating.
"The guard represents one thing and it is only one: order. They are there to assure everyone that they are in every sense of the word the Defence of the city and above all they have the firm intention of making sure that the North knows that Lord Stark takes any visit very seriously. I don't want to imagine annoying faces for lack of efficiency or what is worse professionalism. It wouldn't end well at all in reality.'' Professional soldiers had to behave as such. They were trained hard. That's why the North could say Dareon could be the most powerful kingdom.
You Northerners do it well. I hope you don't mind that I'm travelling a little more. This city is much bigger than any other. And it doesn't look like just a shopping centre if I have to say it.'' Cerenna knew that anyone with two fingers in front would know that she was fishing for information at that moment.
"If you are interested, this is the commercial sector as my lord calls it. It is where most of the products made by the different guilds of the Stark house are sold. Not just glass. Dressmakers. Goldsmiths. Anything you can think of. There are also artists and masters of tapestries. If you want to see something like this, this is the ideal place if I may say so.'' Dareon had fun. The girl was clearly sensible if he had to say it.
"Wait a minute, are you saying that the city is divided into sectors? If so, how many sectors are there in the city? What's in them? Why do it like that?'' Jaime was curious about what he was seeing. Frankly, the city was much better than the capital. Not only did it not smell like shit if I had to say it but I could also say honestly that it was a place a thousand times better than what the south was in the sense of the aesthetics of the city.
''Patience young lannister. You're right. The city is divided into four sectors: commercial, residence, leisure and work. Each of these sectors fulfils a requirement. Except for the labour sector you can go to anyone but well you look like a young man who likes action so I recommend you more that you go to leisure. There are fighting fields where young people can fight and show their sword skills to members of the north who can correct their skills if they see damage in them.'' Hariric had told him that it was very possible that someone like the Lannister found the place of very decent leisure at least in the fight and training area.
"I find it hard to believe that there is something better than the Northerners that there are. We the people of the south are always fighting in tournaments perfecting our skills in reality which gives us a considerable amount of experience''. Cersei mocked Dareon believing that he had finally found a weak point for his surprise, he just laughed amused as if he thought it was comical. She didn't like it in the least that they laughed at her.
''Young Cersei let me say this so you know it well. There are three ways to gain experience. One is in combat. Another is surviving. And another is observing. We Northerners, even I, who am not of Northern blood, believe that with these methods we earn more and learn more. There is a reason why you will not see a Northerner in a fair: because they are not really valuable for battle.'' Dareon mocked amused. The young girl thought so well of herself. It would be fun if it weren't for the fact that he was sad in his mind.
"Cersei before you say more remember that this is the North. Here they fight to survive every day. They have pirates that attack both in the west and in the east. The savages in the North. And the bandits everywhere. So you'd better be careful with what you say, it won't really bother the wrong person.'' Cerenna mocked. Just by the appearance of the guard I could say that the Starks were making sure to produce a professional, capable, efficient army with the right mentality.
"Thank you for your kind words. We're coming anyway. I would like you to look at Winterfell. The seat of the power of the north''. And with that they arrived.
Dareon smiled at the looks of each of those who were with him. Even the Lannister guards were surprised not only by the structure but how imposing it was. He looked at the girl and quickly realised that she was jealous. That didn't bode well if I had to say it. Anyway, if I tried something, I would learn the hard way that there were more terrifying people who played the big game.
-Northern Spas-
Throughout her life, Catlyn Tully had received simple words. She had been educated to be a wife and mother. To raise your children in the expected way. Respect the faith of the seven. Follow the family code. This kind of thing.
Another thing that had been made clear to him is that the Northerners were nothing more than barbarians at their best and that they did not deserve so much respect. That was something taught to her by the septa that she had little confidence in the Northerners (it did not help that the northerners did not bow to her faith in any of the ways of course) and therefore she had been very puzzled when her father declared that he would marry one of Lord Stark's children which was obviously not within his plans.
He had spied on his father wanting to know about the Starks. I was curious. It was a few days ago that he saw a meeting of his father and uncle. His father was a politician. Not a soldier of any kind. His uncle on the other hand was a military man and was known for being an accomplished commander who was very capable. When his father spoke he was screaming at his uncle since he said in a few words: you are a fool if you think you can break the north. She didn't know why her uncle said such things. The north was uncivilised. It was almost in a few words insignificant compared to any other house in the south.
His uncle had made one thing very clear: not to offend the Starks. She was surprised by this. His uncle was a man worthy of respect who was clearly capable of telling the truth. His uncle didn't mince words when it came to saying things. That's why when they were on their way to the North and the two of them were alone, she told her one thing and that was that if she married a Stark, she took into account that she was in the North. Not in the South. That offending a Stark was the worst and most stupid thing. She had of course questioned why and quickly knew the reason and if she had to be frank, she filled her with a certain fear.
His uncle was known as a mediator between the houses of the rivers. He was in charge of maintaining a firm balance and peace between each house. That's why he was highly respected there. When his uncle went to solve a problem, he returned to Riverrun very upset. It turns out that his father had let Walder Frey attack the people of the neck with total impunity. He had even called it something like the blood payment. He couldn't believe it. That's why his uncle returned marked since an assault of the Freys with one thousand five hundred men had found a result of each one dead and each Frey his head cut off and sent to the home of the Freys. His uncle had later discovered the truth.
Rickard Stark, who had already left his position, said that his son had given an order and only one. If a single Frey or soldier of the rivers put a foot on his neck, the orders were to kill them all and then begin a complete massacre of each lord and heir of the Rivers. When she heard that, she felt shocked. Why do such a thing? His uncle then told him that if there was something for which the Starks were known, it was to protect what was theirs. The North was his. No one could take it away. And that if someone tried it, it would easily have consequences beyond terrible.
When he found out that he had to marry a Stark, he knew immediately why his uncle claimed to break the North. His father wanted to use his descendants in some way to put the North under control. Remembering his uncle's explanation and how the North was clearly so capable of killing every living being that threatened him, he came to a conclusion.
The duty to the family dictated that he did what was necessary to protect the family. Her honour as a woman was absolute and she was clear. She would not let her father in his political ambitions of any kind unleash a total war that she, from what her uncle said, could not win in any way, which surprised her a lot.
A part of her wanted to tell her uncle that there was nothing to worry about. Why should they be worried? They could call support from houses like Arryn and Lannister. I was sure they would help them. But then he realised that the battles would be brutal and people will die in his kingdom.
Although she could be a proud defender of the faith of the seven, she was at the end of the day intelligent enough to know that the war would not end well at all and that Stark if what his uncle said was true he would not care about women, men, children or the elderly. Everyone would die under his hand if they attacked him for some reason.
So here I was. He had witnessed the Twin Wolves and knew that the North now had more than ever a solid Defence. The main city of the North was a unique wonder. They were more advanced than anyone in the south. I saw how everyone was treated. I saw people who were obviously from the south. His accents made it clear. And despite everything, they were treated with more respect than the vast majority.
I saw obvious gentlemen by the emblems they wore that acted with more tact and kindness than someone from the south. That surprised her. And he understood even more what the Starks wanted to defend. That's why she deduced that a plan by her father would be defective and at best if they were successful.
Next to him were two people. On one side was her sister Lysa Tully who was in a few words a great friend to her. As the older one had been his duty to help her but he knew that he had a certain resentment with her because in his words he was better than her. I found him stupid. The family had to support each other. But here I could frankly see one thing and nothing more than one and that is that even she could be considered as less.
I saw women in different places. Help. They weren't just at a woman's expected job. If they brought a Septa of all things, I had no doubt that my head would be very full of anger because of the attitude of these people.
Another person who was nearby was Petyr baelish. He was like a brother to her. Petyr was not the typical man if he had to say it. He was a more outstanding man at work than not being a warrior. He was loyal to her and a good man. I could practically see him devouring everything he saw. What she didn't see was the jealousy in the eyes of her friend who was watching everything with a critical eye while at the same time he thought he was not seen.
Catlyn was looking at everything fascinated while Lysa was just looking at Petyr like a maid in love at best which meant little less than nothing at any other point. Anyway, everyone still agreed on something.
"You have to recognise that the North is nowhere near the place that was said. They called it the most retarded kingdom of all and yet here it is. The cleanest city. Soil that instead of being made of earth is ready and well made stone without any damage to it. Frankly, it makes you wonder how much they spend on this.'' Petyr looked at everything with jealousy and anger. I had heard of Catlyn's planned future wedding. They were about to marry her to one of Stark's children.
"I have to agree. The North has flourished a lot. I have heard that the current Lord Stark is responsible in a nutshell for all the improvements. That he and nothing but him is actually the one who has pushed the north to change course and to become the powerful kingdom that is forming here and now''. Catlyn had paid attention to many things that people said.
''Tch for a dog nest things are fine but if they had helped the other kingdoms instead of keeping their secrets the way they are doing it I am sure that any kingdom of the south would have already surpassed them in all fields or skills''. Lyssa mocked the North. He saw them as savages. Despite being better dressed and despite the best city they had. In his mind they were no better than dogs. Of course she was very careful to speak in a low voice.
"I'm not so sure. The North has flourished by itself without the help of any lord of the south and what is more important they have built themselves while at the same time I can honestly say that the North does not share good for the simple fact of how they see the south of all things''. Catlyn had heard enough people in what was the street to thank the ancient gods and some who came from the south talked about how lucky and lucky they were all that the North did not take them into account for the actions of the south against them when their time came.
I'm so I'm exaggerating Cat. The South is possibly more benevolent than the people of the North. I've heard stories from the northern warriors. Strong, fierce and without compassion. Why else would a kingdom like this not accept the cavalry without more and they would think so well of themselves if you have to believe it?" Petyr looked with disgust at everything around him. He didn't like how the woman he loved was looking at everything around him as if it were interesting.
"I don't know. Look and you have heard as well as I have as some people talk about the south. As they mention the kingdoms as if they didn't take them into account. As the noble lords trampled on them in some way. And yet here they are happy to have made their home. They may not have the faith of the seven but they seem happier here than in their old home.'' Catlyn could see people. I had a gift for listening. And I could see practically how every person who was here toresed the Starks as true rulers.
"Maybe they think that now but wait until Winter arrives and then they will run to return to what the South is and its quality. Frankly abandon the South for the North of all things. Look, there are people who do silly things but well, you know what they say about the little ones. They are not endowed on the basis of intelligence that we gentlemen have''. Lysa made fun of the little ones. I found it fascinating to be able to do it. But he noticed that some people gave him looks. He doesn't like me. She was the daughter of an important lord while they were just simple people which enraged her in the worst possible way.
"I doubt very much that if someone as intelligent as Lord Stark has built all this and has made sure to give opportunities to the people of the north, he has not somehow built to make sure by all means that the North would be able to survive the winter. I doubt very much that it will be so easy sister''. I sincerely doubted it. Catlyn could say that judging by the way Lord Stark acted, he looked too much like a man who reasoned and planned for each step.
"Well, however, he has spent the money he had on stupid things. Why build that canal and those two cities called Twin Wolves when he only had to build the moat once again to make it a real impregnable fortress? It doesn't make sense. Obviously Lord Stark wanted to show off.'' And what's worse is that he got it. The two cities of Valyria appearance and other architecture bothered him a lot. Also as an economist I could see the bright future of that channel allowing West and East to connect.
"Once again you seem to be looking at what you think you see Petyr. I think if Lord Stark built that it was for a good reason. And don't tell me it's not a brilliant plan because by making this channel now that single location will benefit from all the commerce that will go to the North. Frankly, I see the one who sits there strengthening himself and becoming a person of great value for the Starks''. Catlyn could practically see a person's hand driving and creating that in order to strengthen herself economically.
"Tch anyway, how do you feel, sister? I know that father wants you to marry his brother Eddard. What an insult. You are the daughter of a big house and you are being punished to marry a second child. Frankly, I find it more than insulting sister''. Lysa enjoyed rubbing in her sister's face how bad things were for her.
"I don't know. But the guy has already warned me exactly that no matter what happens, he thinks very carefully about my actions when dealing with the Starks. That they are in no way to allow stupid behaviour. It seems that the uncle met Lord Rickard and left a very strong impression on him. His uncle was a great knight recognised by the seven kingdoms for his skills not only military but also for his ability to read people.
"I still find idiots who force you to marry a second child. Which will happen to you to be neither more nor less than a simple lady from the north. It's better to stay as a lady from the south than to become a lady from the north, I say.'' Petyr, of course, what she didn't say is that he would become her husband. At least that was the idea. To his chagrin, Catlyn gave him a look around as if he was trying to imply that basically everything he had said was a lie. He made a grimace.
"Petyr is my duty. If I want to guarantee that the North and the Lands of the rivers have a good agreement and at the same time stop being in the throat of the other I have to do what is necessary for them. As a member of the Tully house, it is my duty and nothing more than my duty to ensure by all means that the alliance is strong''. Catlyn could see the discomfort in her friend's eyes but what could be done? There was nothing else that could be done.
"That speaks better of you than of most southern ladies. I've heard that most southern girls are stupid babies who believe that gentlemen are the most important thing in the world.'' A voice came out surprising the three.
When they turned around they found a young man of no more than fifteen years old with decent clothes if they had to say it. He wasn't dressed like a southern gentleman but what was clear is that he dressed better than most people. The young man approached and earned an immediate look from Petyr. It was quite obvious that Petyr didn't like it. Although the young man was not a muscle monster, he looked better than the larguirucho and the most important thing was his presence. The guards of the area relaxed in his presence.
"I don't know who you are but I thought that at least the Northerners would have some respect for private conversations of all things." Petyr looked at the newcomer and realised that he was going to hate him. Good physical shape. Good face but a little more serious than expected from a young man. However, at the same time he lacked that typical lord's arrogance, which made him attractive to the ladies since he didn't seem like one of those to throw himself into shit. Frankly, this was bad.
"I wasn't very watching what was happening. I was just passing by the area because I have orders. However, I would recommend that you be careful with the way you speak. Even small people who come from the south have a very bad temper when people speak ill of the Starks since many consider their good fortune thanks to them.'' The young man looked so calm while talking about the Starks that it was obviously as if he was close to them. Also the way I spoke felt bad for Petyr because he fired him as if nothing had happened. Lysa immediately got angry when she saw her lover badly. And Catlyn looked at the young man with curiosity.
"I would be very careful with the way you talk to us. We are the daughters of Lord Hoster Tully, the Lord of the Rivers, while here with us is our friend and educated by our Father Petyr Baelish. If you don't want it to look bad in your name, it would be better to be careful how you talk to us''. Lysa raised her head as if she thought that looking at him in such a way would scare her or something like that. However, the young man only looked at her for a moment as if he found her amused.
Here in the North, not much attention is usually done to anyone's demands. Words must be demonstrated with deeds. Lord Stark is so tired of accusations and demands from different gentlemen from all over the north about complaints that he even investigated a truth serum just to know when someone was lying or something like that.'' The young man enjoyed the look of the three. One was surprised that it was the older sister. On the other hand, there was the boy who looked clearly upset by what he was saying. The girl, on the other hand, looked clearly furious.
"Vile lies. If such a serum were true, the word would have already spread through the seven kingdoms. Your lord would need help from the teachers just to be able to create and invent that serum as you call it and it is quite obvious that the teachers would have made it run as if it were the most important thing in the world''. Lysa couldn't believe what she was hearing, had the North really created a serum? If so, it would be a danger to anyone who put themselves in bad sights. How many secrets would be known to Lord Stark just for that?
"That's an idiotic thought. According to rumours, the North is discussing kicking out and expelling the teachers. It was discovered that some teachers had tried to sell confidential information to houses in the south, so as it is natural I do not see why our lord and lord would tolerate rats like those in our lands. It's the most sensible thing to do anyway''. The young man sneered. When he discovered himself, he understood why his brother had built Isengard.
The three of the rivers could not believe what they were hearing. Was an entire kingdom about to expel the masters? That would immediately make each lord of the seven kingdoms look at the masters differently although of course some would argue that the masters were fulfilling their duty to the kingdoms just to make sure that it was known how the North was advancing from all things.
However, I raise other very different doubts. To begin with, how would future gentlemen be educated? How will the gentlemen stay healthy? That was important to know in any case. However, they had to think about it at another time since there were things to do like knowing who the young man they had in front of them was.
"He still hasn't told us why he's here for all things and what he's looking for with us. It's not that I'm going to say anything bad but I doubt very much that a Northerner gets involved in southern conversations just like that without a weighty reason''. Catlyn had to find a way to save her face. It had been clear that this man was not here for being friendly to the families of the south and what is more important he had possibly heard them talk about how they did things and much more than the opinion that his two close to the north had.
"Ah yes, I'm here because it's good to be Bryden, he's apparently finished accommodating the people who are his guard and I ask Lord Stark for help to find you. He told me exactly where you were and sent me so that I can help you return and settle in the fortress of Winterfell so if you excuse me you have to go back home.'' The young man began to move and then the three young people noticed that he was surrounded by soldiers. That meant two things. The first is that it could possibly be a person of high position placed by Lord Stark or what is worse and that they could have caused a big problem... a relative of the same Lord Stark who had been insulted before both Petyr and Lysa.
"Excuse me, you know who we are, however we don't know who you are since you haven't introduced yourself. It is a tradition to introduce yourself before starting any conversation anyway. Petyr tried to save face. But when the young man turned goodbye to the funny but serious smile. Now the eyes promised winter and death.
"I suppose it's normal even though you are on the land that my ancestors fought and killed to unite. The Lord Eddard Stark of the Stark house. Future lord and lord of the Twin Wolves and brother of Hariric Stark lord of Winterfell. Now let's go. My brother has called and frankly I don't feel like explaining to him why I'm late''. With his words said, he began to advance. When his brother told him to go see them, it was to give him an idea of them. He never thought he would see two assholes so big with egos and arrogance to match.
-Winterfell. Mr.'s room-
Hariric had had a couple of very exhausting weeks. First he had to go to the shitty capital. He decided to send more agents... just in case the flies. He knew that it was only a matter of time before some imbecile from the south told the king (because demanding he would end up dead) that the North gave his secrets to what he would fully refuse.
They were yours. When the North needed food, didn't they exploit them? When the north needed help with the savages came to their aid? The answer is no. Help from the south had never arrived. The food had been expensive. So if they wanted to fuck with him they would learn the hard way what a bad idea it was to fuck a wolf.
The king was unstable. During his time in the afterlife he had met many crazy people. Curiously, Tom Marvolo Riddle was of a kind of madness caused by the magic of the soul. The magic of the Soul was possibly one of the most difficult taboos to touch in Hariric's mind.
Touching that topic was not only idiotic at best but also risky. An example was those who used the three curses. The first one gave a pleasure for control and if you didn't feel in control you went crazy. The other one drove you crazy to feel what the desire to make you suffer was. And the last one drove you crazy because of the hatred you felt. The magic of the soul could only be touched on rare occasions and had to be very controlled.
Aerys was the typical example of someone who went crazy because of some kind of brain degeneration. He would like to know why. He had been informed about the king. Curiously, he had learned that at first he was promising. It seemed that he would become a good king. Except for the small problems in the form of his love for being recognised and loved above all and wanting to bring glory to the house Targaryen did not see so many problems. Hariric had actually met many people like that.
If he were back in his old world he would suspect magic. One of the most used tactics to destroy an enemy was to isolate him. Completely destroy its command structure. Destroy your allies. And isolate him so thoroughly that no one would realise he was screwed. Aerys had started as a decent king with two very powerful allies.
Steffon Baratheon was a loyal man according to his information who was extremely loyal to the family. Tywin Lannister was in his day a good ally of the king considering him a friend. And then he got screwed. Obviously something had been destroying the king's trust in everyone and his mother. And then came varys that was in Hariric's mind one of the biggest problems.
Hariric felt that trusting an espionage network in the hands of someone who is not known to you and you do not have a strong relationship is stupid. There was a reason why I trusted Shelia. It was not only for the reason that she, like her brother, held him in high esteem. Hariric had trained Shelia in magic and he knew that she had a good idea of how powerful she was (and still fell short) and had given her ways to win.
In fact, I had already thought about how to reward Dareon and Tykren. Each of them was going to receive a good reward for being the loyal friends they were. But that left Shelia who knew that she didn't want to marry more or less with some gentleman from the north.
It's not that Shelia didn't feel comfortable with the lords of the north. Hell, she had connected with many and they were friends. But Shelia had one thing clear and that is that she wanted above all a husband who could follow her as she said so kindly. I couldn't blame her for wanting something because the hell it was in a similar way. Why do you want a weaker partner? A union must not only be of equals but also of people with capable minds and a brain to use.
However, Hariric looked away to a part. On the one hand there was Ashara (she liked that name more than Nymphadora) who was reading her own reports. Can you imagine her look when she arrived and told him that she wanted to found a bank? That surprised him more than a little for a moment. I couldn't blame her. Ashara knew that Money had to be well managed and a Bank was better than just having it.
He also wanted to have good control of money because hariric was clear that if a single man became an idiot who spends and ruins he would get the bastard out of the way faster than anyone can even think of it or what it takes to take out a sword.
However, his thought was more in a small black wolf with red marks on his face and side. On a hanger was Hedwigg looking funny at the little wolf and then there was Ophis who was also looking funny at the little wolf of all things. Why were they looking at the wolf? It could have to do with said wolf biting a figure made by him in the form of some nobles.
Hey, the animal needed a toy and he had to admit that he found the funny idea just to imagine the face of each lord of the south of seeing some of the leaders being eaten of all things by an animal they considered inferior and Ashara found him hysterical.
"You know I wouldn't like to see the face of someone like the king to see an action figure of his that is being eaten by a wolf of all things. He could be stupid enough to order them to kill him''. Ashara sneered. I knew that the only reason why Hariric did not really govern is that the North was already enough. Who wants to deal anyway with every idiot who was in the court and also with every nobleman who demanded and asked for?
"It's not my problem. I also think the funniest thing would be to tell him that my wolf needed a toy to chew and I found that he was the best possible victim. Sacrificing himself in the name of the kingdoms could become the best thing that really happened to him''. Hariric just mocked amused about it. However, despite how fun it would be to see the people of the south, he knew the consequences very well and preferred to deal with the headaches of the north.
"Yes. However, you know as well as I do that when the dear king feels that it is time he will want to know why you have not shared with the other kingdoms the new grace of benefits. The glass. The new drinks. All that. He will want to know what your reason is for not sharing it with all the houses if you know what I mean beloved husband''. She practically knew hariric's answer. I could only imagine it. A part of her was excited about the idea that she would put people in their place. The war was bad. People were dying. But she as hariric were Black. They were people who prospered in the war and saw their enemies writhing.
"There will come a day when the king sends me to call and tells me to explain to him why all the kingdoms are complaining that they do not receive the same benefits. That they don't know the same secrets as the north. That the north has founded its own city of knowledge and education. And my answer will be that they will have to accept either for better or for worse. I'm a Stark. If I've been able to find out and supposedly I'm a savage, let them move their asses and do the same.'' Hariric growled. Someone telling him about all the things that could fuck his life just by calling a king like children that bothered him. If they wanted a fight, they would have it.
"And that day every house will take up arms against you. For the moment they will try to steal the secrets of the north. When that fails, they will ask the king for help. It's crazy hariric. Very unstable. In ways that I think you should know more or less that no house wants him focussed on them''. Of course she knew that Hariric would not hesitate to drop one of his igneous bombs in King's Landing if the king bothered him or much worse a plague.
"I wan't get that far. If there is a need, the north will only claim independence. Between the western and eastern fleets we have enough firepower to attack their fleets and also their coasts. Then if you obviously add to that our land defences we have advantages that you will not be able to count on. That and the wolves of War are our weapons to deal with them.'' Hariric of course knew that if the thing was forced it would have to release a lot of firepower but he was not afraid to do so.
"You've been getting ready. You knew that the Targaryen would one day be a nuisance, but are you really looking for independence? I know you well, husband. Be your way of thinking. To act. I know that you will not make any move that has the effect of more loss than benefit and independence will be a very great loss''. Hariric had never acted stupidly.
"Please, as if it were going to leave the North weak in the face of junk kingdoms that believe that innovation is wrong. Look at the free cities. Each of them represents a problem and a danger. Each of them has great potential. And yet instead of emulating them and trying to strengthen the kingdoms in this regard and make them stronger, each ruler prefers to live a mediocre life. I don't like it. Hariric didn't hide his contempt when someone did something that pissed him off.
"No. In no way would you hariric Stark let the North be weak. You're a Black from the beginning to the end. How do you take it by the way? I know that the blood of nemesis dictates you to execute those who have offended you and seeing that you have taken the Stark as yours I guess there are many enemies to destroy''. Ashara approached his soon to be husband (again) and placed himself on his lap enjoying his body and magic.
"I'm going... more or less well. I have managed to get the targets selected. The targaryen are a worrying part. So are the Lannisters but in the case of the latter a small punishment blow will be enough. The Tyrells and Tully have it really fucked because I think they will literally become my bitches. And the less you say about Arryn the better''. With the Targaryen it was simple. He was not offended by the conquest. It Happened. No. What offended him was the betrayal of the pact. Of how the Targaryen had allied themselves with the Stark house and then spat in their faces.
"I shouldn't have questioned it. The Arryn house... between everything they have done and all the deaths and harassment there was also the point that the Arryn house tried to turn your brother into his slave. You're going to destroy them. I don't need to be a seer to see it. It's in your eyes. As clear as the day itself. You'll tear them to pieces. You'll destroy them. I can't say I feel mercy of any kind.'' Ashara didn't make a face. If there was something she knew, it was that Hariric had always controlled his nemesis blood very well. Possibly the Black with more control of her.
"If it weren't because I agree with it, believe me, I'm very tempted to let him guide me. But the last time I let my Nemesis blood get out of control innocent people end up in shit up to my neck. I will not tolerate it. Although I won't be the one to say that a little revenge is not in order''. The blood of nemesis was the black curse. It gave those who possessed it the ability to pay and reward. It was a form of magical bondage. To make the Black reward according to the actions of a person and punish according to them.
"It's not important anyway. The important thing is that you're not losing it. You must prepare for the future. Anyway, I'd like to talk about more things. I'm more than grateful for how things are and I would like to be able to enjoy a time without blood and death if possible''. Ashara hugged her husband. He could understand that his gift told him what he had to do.
"We won't have war. Not unless necessary. I refuse to sink into the war for no reason. Although diplomacy is not the best, I have always been a believer that it is better to die a single man than for hundreds to die, especially if those hundreds are on our side. I don't like wasting lives on our side''. Although Hariric was a war magician, he didn't mean that he liked the idea of his people dying in the least.
"The war is shit but we will ignore it. I have a much more pleasant idea of what to do''. Before Hariric could say anything, she began to kiss him passionately.
Soon their bodies despite being dressed were almost melted. Hariric began to channel his magic in his wife and made her feel more alive. The moan that escaped from his lips was an indication of how strong his magic was. In response, Ashara let her own power reach her husband's entire body. They were so affected that the atmosphere was being saturated when a knock was made on the door which could almost have led to the death of someone.
Lord Stark Lord Gerion Lannister is here to have dialogues according to him. Apparently he had already reported this in reality''. The guard (a poor brave soul actually) had no idea what had been going on although he knew that despite not being married both man and woman were as good as they were married in reality.
Anyway, he still had the duty (and he was beginning to curse someone for what they had done to make him the one who did this) to report it. He could hear the furniture, which meant that they were in another intense moment. I pray not to be punished for it. Curiously, Gerion Lannister was actually giving him a funny look.
Gerion Lannister was a man who could only be described in one way. It was big. And he was in good shape. But there was a light in his eyes. Unlike his brother who was known for being a well of coldness except for his loved ones. However, this man in such good shape that he also seemed pleasant hid a very Lanister mentality. Gerion was the kindest of his brothers, it's no less true. Also with his brother Tygett was the one who was in the best shape of them. But despite everything, the Lannister personality was very firm in him.
"I must say that when they told me about the new Lord Stark I wanted to get to know you a lot. It's not very common for someone to take my older brother by the nose. Surprising and scaring my brother is difficult. Do you happen to have something to drink with to celebrate with it? It's just a transcendental moment if I have to say it.'' Gerion didn't lie. He could love his brother but seeing him surprised and a little scared was always good if he had to be honest.
''...I guess it's true what they say that you can't get a good image of a person until you've met them. There on that shelf. There are three different drinks. Choose one and I'll choose another.'' Hariric got up and took out his own Whiskey. This was Whiskey of Fire. Just like it was sold with Winter Vodka (much stronger than normal vodka with a cold touch in it), Sumset Ron (it was a stronger rum but with a feeling of home) and other drinks. They were not so magical but stronger than their Muggle versions. He saw the Lannister look before taking some Vodka. That was actually funny to him and he sat down with Ashara to get his own drink in also Vodka.
"Oh, I like it. A new drink. When I heard that the North was in the trade of new drinks I was very surprised if I have to say it. I can already say that the people of the green pastures will not sit well at all. It's not that it's too big a problem in my mind now... to the new experiences''. And with that he gave a drink to his drink. He was surprised. The drink was quite strong with a fresh touch if I had to say it and a touch of lemon (another benefit of Hariric was that in the process a soft touch of lime was added) that sat very well with him.
"I see you enjoyed it. Well, I know that this is going to be very straight to the point and I know that you southerners really like to play with nice words groping each other but I would like to go fast. You are here for something special and I would like to know what you are looking for more or less. I don't like to waste time in the slightest''. Hariric smiled when he saw the lannister nod.
"Ah, such a decent conversation. We are not in politics but in commerce so I understand that you want to get rid of it as soon as possible. Well, let's start with the basics and simple. It turns out that I have seen the list of products that the North sells to Braavos to sell to all of Essos. By the way, very smart. By selling only to one city and from there selling it to the others, no one noticed your movement. Very cunning''. I knew how to say it. Lord Stark would have earned much more money going from city to city and instead sold everything in bravos for less money and in return he was not discovered very intelligent.
"I like to think of myself as a sensible guy. I knew that the moment the south knew about my products you would start to stick your noses in it trying to know how to do it. Thank you, but no thanks. I guess you want to do business for the sale of products in the West or at least have an idea more or less of how the system works, isn't it?''. Hariric could see in gerion Lannister a potential player from what he could say.
''Ahahaha if well thought out. Yes. I would like to open business with the North and know what products the North offers to sell all things so that in this way I can offer it to my brother and that he decides if business is done and in this way we all win if you stop to think about it in reality''. Gerion could tell that Lord Stark was not stupid. I was studying it in detail to know exactly which foot I was lying. Very smart.
"Business is always a welcome thing, Lord Gerion. And my budding husband knows that he must work on it. However, we are also aware that you can't just expect to buy. You have to win... a little incentive if you know what I mean. That's why I think it will be convenient if my husband agrees to send a package of products to see what the North to the South offers. A first impression if we are going to call it that''. Ashara entered her player mode. He could easily see Gerion's mind working as fast as he could.
That would be good, but is the range of northern products so wide? I am aware that the north offers what is completely new drinks and spices of various types to Essos. But I didn't know that there were more products that the North was working on making if I may say so.'' Gerion knew this was interesting. The woman in front of him was already very aware of the business of the Stark house. That spoke of two things. Either he had complete loyalty deposited more in the Stark house than in the birth houses or he had Lord Stark in his pocket.
"It is true that the North offers those resources but there are more. Much more. According to what my husband has shown me, there are a series of products in glass artefacts. We also have silk if my husband is right. That and you also have much more. You will have to bring in an expert merchant to take a real look at the commercial sector and even you would have to take a look at Black Wolf Port and also at Whiteport''. Ashara had to admit that she found the Lannister man funny. Very funny. I had hoped I wouldn't be too overwhelmed.
"That's surprising. Let me be the first to congratulate you on the progress of your house. Clearly the Stark house has been well received with an heir like her husband to be. I'm very sure of that but why would I have to go to these two ports? Wouldn't everything be visible from right here?''. Gerion had not counted on this in the least.
"Well, I don't have all the information. I just came to the family and my husband is showing me the ropes as he likes to expose it anyway. But according to him, it is neither more nor less than the matter that the Stark house cannot sell all its products together with its vassals in a single port. He has to hand them out. In one harbour you will find products from the West and in another from the East. Hence also the construction of the canal''. Ashara could see Lord Lannister's clearly surprised look.
''Lord Lannister when you go out you have nothing to worry about I have arranged a caravan with a small amount of products and at the same time you will have a list of everything offered not only by the Stark house but every house in the North. Not only in terms of valuable objects and drink but food and some other resources if I may say so.'' Hariric could see the Lannister's mind working overtime.
"Thank you Lord Stark. I'm sure my brother would like to know all this. I'd better go. Could you ask one of your men to pick up the children who came with me? I think it's more convenient if I'm allowed to say it Lord Stark''. Gerion was not happy. He knew Tywin well enough to know that he would not take it well and would look for any possible advantage including trying to rob him from the north.
"Of course. When I leave, tell one of my guards to talk to one of my friends, his name is Dareon. Tell him the name of the children he is looking for and believe me he will find them. If you need to discuss any more matter or have dialogues regarding commerce, I just want you to know that the Stark house is more than willing to have conversations.'' Hariric could see the Lannister nod before getting up and leaving. However, hariric knew better. I knew that the man was already thinking about all possible scenarios.
''...You know that Tywin lannister won't stay still. The only way to say that we are producing high-quality viable goods will make him want to move against the North. I'm more than sure that I could actually try to do some idiocy like trying to create marriage contracts and then use the wives to try to get something out of all that''. Ashara sneered. Tywin Lannister was a good player of the so-called game but he was so predictable.
"By the time Gerion sets foot in the lands of Westerland with all the new resources, Tywin will already be planning. It will seek to create marriage contracts. One fact is that he thinks that with his position of the king's hand he can practically force marriages thinking that there is no one who will oppose him. He has forgotten the first lesson of any attempt to make a demonstration of power and strength.'' A lesson that his grandfather Arcthurus taught him well enough: only do it when you are sure you are going to win.
"Everything looks like it's going to get fun."