15

The Stark by Dscot

I do not own this story.

CH15

As I entered the room, my uncle Benjen guided me towards a young man named Marro, bearing news of my long-lost aunt, Lyanna. His eyes were filled with a mixture of fear. The young man's voice trembled as he began to speak, his words hung in the air. He revealed that he had been purchased in Qarth. He had crossed paths with Lyanna.

Using an application of magic, I gently waved my hand, freezing him in place. With a calm demeanor, I dissolved into his mind, delving deep into the labyrinth of his thoughts. As I navigated the intricate network of memories and emotions, I sought the truth, like a curious explorer unraveling hidden secrets.

As I delved into the depths of this man's mind, I found myself traversing through his memories. Amongst the fragmentary recollections, I stumbled upon a vivid image of two women, one who was my aunt and the other whom I soon discovered was a slave that was sold alongside them. It was through her that he had learned who Lyanna really was. This woman held a haunting and painful significance in his memories. I witnessed the sorrow etched in his mind the depths of his recollections unveiled that she did not survive the atrocities inflicted upon her. The weight of her suffering resonated in his thoughts.

He had escaped to the city of Braavos and allowed himself to fall into despair. It wasn't until he heard the tales of what I did to the Ironborn that he started to get a sense of purpose again. With rumors of the prosperity and the military might of the North he remembered my aunt. It woke something in him, sparking a determination to make his way to the North. He had come to me, a determined man with a fiery spirit and a heart filled with both hope and vengeance. It was evident that he had embarked on this journey in search of justice. It had taken him a long time to gather the necessary resources and the strength to venture across vast distances to reach my lands.

As we stood before him, I could see the lingering pain in his eyes. I erased his memory of being frozen as I rummaged through his mind. I then presented him with the opportunity to join us on our excursion to the city of Qarth. His face lit up, a flicker of excitement replacing the shadows of his past, he expressed his eagerness to exact his vengeance upon the masters who had once held him captive.

After he was escorted out of the room, I turned to my uncle Benjen and the rest of my relatives in the room, their thoughtful expressions as they recognized the depth of my ability to delve into another's thoughts. I declared, "He is telling the truth." The weight of my words hung in the air, unsettling yet necessary. Uncle Benjen wasted no time, his voice filled with urgency. "We need to go and get her," he asserted. Uncle Ned, on the other hand, seemed uneasy, his discomfort palpable as he grappled with the idea of me of the mind arts I just performed.

"I'll get my men together," Benjen declared. Sighing, I couldn't help but voice my concerns. "But Uncle Ned, we don't even know if she's still alive." The air grew heavy. Uncle Benjen, his face contorted with disbelief, interjected, "You're not planning on leaving her in slavery, are you?" Irritation flared within me, and I replied in a firm, resolute tone, "No, of course not. But we mustn't let our hopes soar too high. It has been more than three years since this man last encountered Lyanna."

"Qarth is on the other side of the world. It will take us time to gather resources and get there," I replied to Uncle Benjamin, trying to reason with him. He seemed lost in his thoughts for a moment, his brows furrowed in frustration. Finally, he spoke, his voice filled with determination, "I know, nephew. It's just...when I heard this news, I felt an overwhelming need to rescue her. I cannot bear the thought of her suffering alone."

"It's a good thing that we have a flying ship," Sybelle spoke up confidently. I looked at her, my eyes widening as the truth of her words sank in. "Wow, Sybelle, you're absolutely right!" I exclaimed, a newfound enthusiasm igniting within me. "Having a flying ship is more than just a convenience—it's a game-changer! We can reach our destination in record time."

If we crammed as many men as we could into the ship with our supplies, it would be very tight, but we could get at least 3000 soldiers onto the ship. We could assemble a formidable force. My enemies won't know what hit them when we descend upon them from the skies, our numbers overwhelming.

While we were working on creating a gate that could teleport us from the flying ship to the ground and back again, something unexpected happened. We accidentally stumbled upon a way to make a gate that allows us to travel long distances, just like walking through a regular door. It was quite remarkable! However, there were a couple of conditions for this gate to work. Firstly, it had to be anchored, meaning the ship needed to be firmly connected to the ground. This was essential for the gate to function properly.

Moreover, there was another requirement - only those with magic flowing in their blood could use this gateway. Initially, my intention was to create gateways like this for mass transportation, but since it couldn't be accessed by everyone, I decided to restrict it to those with Stark bloodline. After all, the last thing I wanted was to give magical people unrestricted access to my home.

Now, thanks to this incredible creation, I can seamlessly travel from the ship to Winterfell, as if I were simply walking through a regular door.

000

"What news do we have from the north?" Jon Arryn demanded, his voice laced with exhaustion. Baelish straightened his posture, his tone becoming more assertive as he delivered the information. "They are becoming extremely wealthy with their new ships and the new canal," he emphasized. "They are selling vast amounts of high-quality products throughout the seven kingdoms and Essos."

He paused for a moment, letting the weight of his words sink in. "The north is flooding the rest of the kingdom with high-quality fabrics and furniture," Baelish continued. "And the amount of steel they produce... it's staggering. They still sell it at a high price that most kingdoms cannot afford."

A deep sigh escaped Baelish's lips as he shared another piece of information. "Many lords in the crown lands and around the realm have written to me, begging for help to persuade Prince Leon to sell at a more reasonable price." Baelish's voice grew even bolder "The fact that they can produce and sell such an enormous amount of steel is bringing in huge profits to the Kingdom. I have discovered that many mercenary companies in Essos have made significant purchases of steel armament from them."

Varys leaned forward and began, "You know, my little birds brought me some interesting news. It seems that Prince Leon has been heavily arming and outfitting the sell sword Company of the Rose. What's more, he's even sent 1000 men to join them for training and such." Pycelle, the aging Grand Maester, furrowed his brow as if in deep thought and asked, "Wait a minute, weren't they founded by northerners who wouldn't bend the knee?"

Baelish, chimed in with a sly smile and a friendly tone, saying, "Oh, I've heard whispers about Prince Leon hiring them. But as for the purpose, I'm afraid I haven't got a clue." Renley, his voice tinged with suspicion, questioned, "Hold on a second. Are you implying that Prince Leon is up to something?" Varys calmly replied, "Oh, no, no. I'm simply offering some information to the small Council." His tone remained friendly, but a glimmer of intrigue danced in his eyes.

Interrupting the conversation, Baelish redirected the focus back to the economy of the north. Leaning in closer, he delivered the final blow. "My man in the Iron Bank has told me that they have made more than 3 million gold in just steel products to Braavos in the last year." The room fell into a stunned silence. The implications of such wealth and power emanating from the north were hard to comprehend. Varys, spoke up, "The North, they sold the ships they acquired from the ironborn rebellion." "Sold them to Ibben and Lorath." Varys continued "Lorath, rejoiced at this boon. With these additional ships, their defenses have been bolstered.

Pausing for a moment, "But that is not all," he continued,"My little birds have whispered secrets that the North has forged an alliance, a pact sealed with these very ships as bargaining chips." "Doesn't the north need to have permission from the iron throne to make deals with foreign nations?" Baelish questioned, his voice dripping with skepticism.

"No," Jon replied with annoyance, "The treaty that was signed with Robert gave them independence in creating and maintaining alliances." "The audacity of the North to sell the ships they had taken from the Ironborn rebellion! I had specifically requested Prince Leon to hand those ships over to the Royal Navy to strengthen our fleet. But what does he do? He completely disregards my command and sells them off for personal benefits!" Stannis's voice dripped with contempt.

Renley chimed in, "What right did you have to those ships, brother? The North rightfully won them from the Ironborn. They had no obligation to hand them over to you." Stannis's anger flared, "They should have put their duty to the realm above their own greed! Instead, they chose to line their pockets while disregarding the needs of the kingdom!" Renley's smile hinted at a playful retort. "Well, perhaps if the Royal Navy wasn't in such a dire state, we wouldn't have needed to rely on Prince Leon's generosity in the first place."

Baelish asserted, "I vehemently agree with Prince Stannis! The realm could have reaped immense benefits from those ships, yet they were shamelessly handed over to a foreign entity, all in the name of securing trade deals and profitability for the North. How could such a decision be justified? The very notion of prioritizing the interests of another region over our own is a grave betrayal to the realm. We must demand accountability and rectify this travesty, for the sake of the realm's prosperity!"

Jon Arryn responded, his voice carrying an air of authority. "There is nothing that can be done. The North is not required to offer assistance, not in times of peace. They are not obligated to join our forces or share their supplies."

Pycelle, the grand maester, added his insight. "Indeed, their lucrative trade agreement with Lorath and Ibben has made them the primary distributor of whale oil in the southern kingdoms. Many of my brethren in Oldtown are dismayed by the exorbitant prices they demand for the oil."

As he locked eyes with Stannis, his tone grew even bolder. "I agree with you, Stannis. Though it would have been nice if Prince Leon had handed over those ships. They would have been a useful resource to help bolster our defense and economy."

Baelish leaned forward, his eyes gleaming with curiosity as he posed his question. "Is there a way for us to tax the north?" His voice carried a friendly tone, "They are making a lot of income with their canal and trade, aren't they?" Baelish's mind buzzed with the potential benefits such taxation could bring, envisioning some of the northern gold lining his pockets.

Jon sighed "The agreement that they made during the rebellion. They don't pay taxes."They are technically independent and only connected to the rest of the seven kingdoms through military alliance." Baelish frustration grew, he has been trying to get his hands on the north, newly created wealth "The rest of the kingdom contributes to the crown's coffers, yet the north remains untouched. We need their resources, and their gold!"

Jon met his gaze, "Your determination is commendable, but we must tread carefully. The north is a strong and proud region, and any attempt to infringe upon their rights may lead to unrest." Baelish furrowed his brows, deep in thought. "But surely there must be a way to benefit from their income. The North is thriving, and it seems unfair that they are exempt from taxation."

Jon nodded, understanding Baelish's concern. "I agree, it does seem unfair. However, we must honor the agreements made during Robert's Rebellion. The North fought alongside us, and in return, they were granted certain privileges." Pycelle, the Grand Maester, chimed in with a skeptical tone. "It does seem like an unusual agreement, my lord. To exempt an entire region from taxation, especially when they are making substantial income, is quite unprecedented." Renley, interjected, his voice filled with admiration. "But let us not forget, that the North played a crucial role in securing Robert's victory. Their loyalty and bravery should not be overlooked."

Jon nodded in agreement. "Indeed, Renley. The North's support was instrumental in the war. And as per the treaties signed and agreed upon after the war, they are technically an independent region. They have pledged to support us in times of war, but in peacetime, they govern themselves.

Baelish pondered for a moment, his mind working through the possibilities. "Perhaps there is another way to benefit from their prosperity without imposing taxes. Jon raised an eyebrow, his gaze unwavering, "And how do you propose we do that, Lord Baelish? They are a powerful and independent region, not easily swayed by threats or force."

Baelish leaned forward, his eyes gleaming with determination, " The north relies heavily on trade routes controlled by the throne. We can impose tariffs and tolls, making it increasingly difficult for them to prosper without contributing to the kingdom's coffers."

Pycelle nodded slowly, his wrinkled face reflecting the weight of the situation, "It would certainly put pressure on them, but we must tread carefully. The north has never been one to back down from a challenge, and such actions may only lead to further division and conflict."

Stannis, interjected, "We cannot let fear of conflict hold us back. The north owes us its allegiance, and it is high time they pay their dues. If they refuse to comply, we must be prepared to take more drastic measures."

Baelish flashed a sly smile, his eyes glinting with mischief, "Indeed, Prince Stannis. Sometimes, drastic measures are necessary to ensure the stability and prosperity of the realm. Let them see the consequences of their defiance."

Baelish's eyes glinted with a cunning determination as he contemplated his next move. The North, with its vast resources and flourishing trade, had become a tantalizing prize that he yearned to claim. The fact that they were exempt from taxation only fueled his burning desire to exploit their wealth.

000

As my majestic ship soared through the sky, defying gravity, we embarked on a daring journey from Winterfell to the city of Qarth. With a distance of approximately 4000km to cover, our vessels proved their mettle, boasting a maximum speed of 112km for brief bursts, while maintaining a steady pace of 95km for the majority of the flight.

The voyage was not without its challenges, for the heavens above can be unpredictable. A thunderstorm loomed in our path, threatening to disrupt our course. But with skillful navigation, we charted a detour, skillfully circumventing the tempestuous clouds.

As we glided through the heavens and over the vast expanse of the sea, our anticipation grew. Finally, after a day and a half, the sprawling city of Qarth came into view. But such was our altitude that the naked eye could not decipher the intricate details of the city below. We had to rely on the enchanted spyglass, a magical tool that brought the city into focus, revealing it even from our lofty vantage point.

During our flight, my sister and I embarked on an intriguing endeavor - crafting potions with the intention of gently lulling the city into a peaceful slumber. Our plan was to release these potions, allowing their calming effects to spread throughout the streets, making it easier for my forces to approach and conquer the city. With the city blissfully asleep or at least groggy, I resolved to lead my men down and initiate our invasion. We arrived at the city sooner than we expected, and sadly the potion was not finished by then. We discussed that by the next day, we would have enough of the potion that we could probably put this city into a sleep.

As we hovered over the city of Qarth, the gem amidst the sand, stood tall and proud, a testament to the ancient civilizations that once thrived within its walls. Its towering structures, casting shadows upon the labyrinthine streets below. This city, with its magnificent design and undeniable beauty, is a sight to behold.

But beneath its glorious facade lies a dark and twisted reality. For within the heart of Qarth, the rich and powerful rule with an iron fist, their wealth built upon the backs of the oppressed. Slaves are brought in, their lives sacrificed to serve the insatiable desires of the elite.

Qarth remains a stark reminder of the stark contrast between beauty and brutality, a testimony to the depths to which humanity can sink when power and greed take hold.

I decided to take five elite soldiers who were trained in stealth and infiltration. After our ship quietly landed a distance away from the city, we swiftly made our way towards our target on foot. I brought along my magical carpet bag as we snuck into the city. the inside of that carpet bag was way bigger than it looked from the outside. It could comfortably fit about 20 people and fit many more if we squeeze them in, which was perfect for my secret mission. And to top it all off, this carpet bag was so light that it felt like I was carrying a feather.

As we arrived at the city's perimeter, I attempted to transfigure the towering wall into a small, inconspicuous door. However, to my dismay, the transfiguration spell dissipated as soon as I completed the incantation. Frustration crept in, but I refused to let it deter me from our mission.

I pondered alternative strategies to breach the city's defenses. It was then that a daring idea struck me like a bolt of lightning. I decided that I'll dig beneath the city silently removing layers of earth to create an underground passage.

With methodical precision and utmost care, I began excavating the ground. However, as I delved deeper, it was soon discovered that the wall extended far below the surface, reaching the bedrock. Momentary doubt threatened to cloud my mind but I quickly banished it.

I realized that the wall beneath the earth was surprisingly unprotected. I channeled my magical prowess once more, skillfully transfiguring the hidden section of the wall into a secret passageway. I did the same for the next two walls that circle the city.

My loyal soldiers and I moved with utmost silence, our steps barely making a sound as we traversed the cobblestone paths. We stealthily slinked past the majestic buildings, their facades adorned with opulent hues of rose, umber, and violet.

Beneath the moonlit sky, we tiptoed past bubbling fountains, their stone surfaces expertly carved into the forms of mythical creatures. The sound of water cascading provided a soothing backdrop to our covert mission.

As we ventured further, we maneuvered through an expansive open square, its expanse cloaked in darkness. The streets leading to our destination were flanked by magnificent bronze statues, frozen in time, immortalizing the heroes of this fabled city. We paid them no mind, our focus solely on the task at hand.

Finally, we arrived at a green painted building, nestled in the heart of the city. It was here that one of the nefarious Councilmen resided, the very individual responsible for the captivity of my aunt Lyanna.

Silencing the door with a spell, I slowly opened it. I surveyed the scene before me in the inner courtyard - several guards stood, unsuspecting of the imminent fate that would befall them. I silently summoned the power of somnus, casting the spell upon them, effortlessly lulling them into a deep slumber.

we scoured the premises, our steps as silent as the whispers of the night. My men, dispersed throughout the sprawling villa, each with a mission to uncover any trace of my aunt. We moved swiftly, our senses heightened, as we ventured from room to room, methodically searching every nook and cranny. Finally, in a large luxurious room, amidst a group of women reduced to mere pleasure slaves was my aunt, bound and chained

Seeing my aunt, shackled and humiliated a surge of anger coursed through me, a fire ignited within my veins, fueled by the injustice and cruelty inflicted upon my blood. The slavers, the vile perpetrators of this heinous crime, would pay dearly for their sins. But at that moment, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of anger towards my aunt as well. How could she be so reckless, so foolish, to venture into such perilous territory, abandoning the safety of the north?

With a flick of my wrist, a surge of energy emanated from my fingertips, stunning them both in a momentary state of bewilderment. Carefully, I guided them into my magical carpet bag, a vessel that held a concealed and expansive interior space, ensuring their safety.

I ventured further, discovering the slave master sleeping naked on the bed, unaware of his impending fate. Without hesitation, I directed my magic towards him as well, rendering him temporarily incapacitated. Utilizing my conjuring abilities, ropes materialized in my hands, allowing me to securely bind and gag him, ensuring his compliance.

As the slaver lay unconscious, I found myself compelled to explore his mind and gather some useful information. I opened his eyes and began delving into his thoughts. It was like peering into a labyrinth, but with every twist and turn, I discovered valuable insights. My purpose was to understand the layout of the house and identify any precious belongings that might be safeguarded within. Additionally, I sought to ascertain the presence of any of his loved ones.

After that, I walked around the house, With each room I entered, I carefully moved the remaining slaves into the carpet bag, ensuring their safety and freedom. As I ventured further into the house, I stumbled upon rooms that belonged to the rest of the slave master's family. In one room, I saw a young boy of twelve stunning him and gagging him as well and put them into the bag. When I ran across to their younger children, who were under the age of nine. I sent the killing curse of both of them giving them the mercy of death.

When I stumbled upon the man's wife, I was taken aback to find her in a room with three naked slave boys and men. However, as I delved deeper into her thoughts, a rush of mixed emotions flooded my mind. I discovered that these men may be slaves, but they seemed content in their current circumstances. They seem to actually care for their masters, and one of the men were responsible for my aunt being captured when she tried to escape. Stunning them and binding them, I also laid them into the bag. Meanwhile, my comrades went around and swiftly eliminated the guards.

As we made our way out of the grand mansion, a group of men caught our attention. They stood on the street, their eyes darting around with a wary expression. It was evident that they were searching for something, yet unable to find it, confusion etched on their faces. Clad in long, beaded robes, they possessed an otherworldly aura. What intrigued me the most was their appearance as I passed them. Not only were their lips a ripe violet-blue, but their entire flesh seemed to exude that unique hue. Their nails were almost black, and even the whites of their eyes had a hint of blue. I couldn't help but sense a touch of magic in the air, as if their presence was imbued with some mystical power. "So these are the famous undying warlocks" I'm mused to myself as we slipped past them unnoticed.

Back at the ship, I made the decision to cast a magical spell to keep the women and the slave master in a state of temporary paralysis. As I revived my aunt Lyanna, I could see the fear and surprise in her eyes, tears forming. I tried my best to comfort her, assuring her that she was safe, until finally, she couldn't hold back any longer and broke down in tears, embracing me tightly. My uncle Benjen approached her, offering his support and whispered words of comfort. Lyanna hugged Benjen back and apologized, expressing remorse for running away.

The next day was quite eventful for us as we decided to observe the city of Qarth through our magical spy glasses. It wasn't until late afternoon that we noticed something unusual happening. The entire city seemed to be in a state of panic and chaos.