Chapter 8: Last advices in the morrow

Summary:

After awakening in the morning, Marc exchanges with Eddard Stark upon the advices that need to be written and of some last crucial informations that the northerner lord needed to face King's Landing and the incoming events.

Chapter Text

The rest of the night was untroubled, but my mind was still filled with lingering thoughts and questioning my purpose and intents while pondering what would be the next moves.

I finally woke up, a bit shaken by the visit of the Three-eyed Raven. As I left the bed and pondered again on the dream, I look by the window and notice morning is there. I wonder how long I had slept, even though I doubt lord Stark would have let me to sleep too long as I was able to be part of his household. My cautious part was reproaching me of rushing into the unknown and danger with my intervention in the hall and more importantly my daring revelation of my knowledge of "Game of Thrones" to someone of this world, even if Eddard Stark was among the most trustworthy.

I heard a knock at the door. I moved to it and opened it, revealing a Stark guard.

"Yes?" I asked.

The guard looked at me with curiosity and respect, leading me to wonder if he witnessed the intervention of yesterday.

"Lord Stark requests your presence", he said.

I nodded and left the room, following the guard.

As we join Eddard Stark's assigned room, I found myself face to face with the lord of Winterfell. Vayon Poole, the trusted steward of House Stark, stood by Eddard's side, attentive and ready to assist. The guard had withdrawn, leaving just the three of us. I bowed respectfully.

"Lord Stark, Vayon."

They greeted me in return.

"You ask me, my lord," I said, keeping my tone deferential.

Eddard looked at me intently, and I could sense a mix of caution and curiosity in his eyes. "I have made a decision," he began, glancing briefly at Vayon, "regarding your departure to Winterfell with Arya, Lady, and your escort."

Vayon nodded, understanding the importance of the matter. His presence indicated that Eddard had already informed him of our previous discussion and I knew that he was aware I'd join Winterfell in our discussion the previous night.

I nodded, eager to hear his plans. It was crucial to know when Arya and I would leave Darry Castle, especially considering the urgency of avoiding delays. Robert could depart at any time, and Eddard and his household would follow him to King's Landing the moment he left.

"When do you plan for us to leave, my lord?" I inquired.

Eddard glanced at Vayon once again, then turned back to me. "As soon as possible," he replied. "I believe it would be wise for you to depart swiftly. You cannot risk lingering here. I do not want you or Arya to be in the vicinity of the Lannisters. And knowing Robert, he would soon leave to join King's Landing as quickly."

I agreed with his decision, understanding the urgency, especially with the issue of Cersei or Joffrey attempting something.

Vayon stepped forward, a quill and parchment in his hand. "If the departure is soon," he said, addressing me, "it means you don't have much time to write the message summarizing the discussion from yesterday and any other advice you wish to provide to lord Stark. If it is possible, it needs to be done now or after breaking our fast."

I looked at Vayon, grateful for his assistance while touched by the way he addressed me. "Thank you, Vayon. And thank you, lord Stark"

Lord Stark nodded silently, "You advised me to ask Vayon to write down the advices you gave me yesterday. And I think it should be done now."

I nodded in approval, saluting the northerner lord's decision. With the combined support of Eddard Stark and Vayon Poole, I felt confident in my role in this unfamiliar world. The weight of responsibility rested on my shoulders, but with their trust, I was determined to fulfill my purpose and help shape a better future for the Stark and hopefully for Westeros.

"The safety of Sansa Stark and Jeyne Poole is vital," I began. "Never let Sansa be alone in the Red Keep. Always ensure she is accompanied by someone else, preferably a person you trust. Stay informed of the people she encounters, for knowledge is power, especially in court intrigues."

Eddard nodded as Vayon transcribed my words, his expression serious and focused. I could sense some internal conflict within him as he grappled with the idea of spying on his own daughter, but I knew the danger that lurked within the Red Keep and the importance of safeguarding Sansa.

"Regard the court intrigues as a battlefield of its own," I continued, "with each person playing the role of commanders with their strategies and agendas. Trust no one in the Red Keep or King's Landing, even those who claim to be trustworthy. Always cross-check any information you find or receive."

As I spoke, Vayon diligently wrote down my words, capturing the essence of my advice. Eddard absorbed the information, his eyes focused and attentive.

"Prepare with your most trusted men for any plan of departure and escape from King's Landing," I advised. "Contact Lord Manderly discreetly, requesting assistance and a ship, but do not use it as your escape route. Be cautious in your investigations, and consider all the consequences before using any truths you may uncover. And if the need arises, do not risk your life or your family's fate to save your friend if it is beyond your abilities."

Eddard's eyes locked with me as I said this point, his expression solemn. The idea of potentially leaving Robert behind, even in the face of danger, conflicted with his sense of loyalty and duty. But I could see the resolve in his eyes, as he recognized the importance of prioritizing the safety of his family.

"I understand," he said. "Sometimes sacrifices must be made to save those we can."

I nodded, empathizing with his struggle. The choices Eddard faced were undoubtedly difficult, but the welfare of his family had to be the primary concern. With Vayon's help, we concluded the message, rolling up the parchment and sealing it with wax.

"Keep it close to you. Never let it seen by anyone in King's Landing", I advised him.

Lord Stark nodded to me, understanding well the meaning of my words. With the message sealed and ready, Eddard looked at me expectantly, waiting to hear the additional points I wanted to share. I hesitated for a moment, mindful of the time for breakfast, but I knew the importance of conveying crucial informations that could save him.

"Well, you will remember what we discussed yesterday," I began, "These advices on the parchment are like reminders. However, there are still four things I want to tell you." I took a breath, preparing to reveal the critical information.

"The first is that I hope we can exchange messages in the future as best as we can," I said, emphasizing my commitment to helping him and his family. "Even if my priority will be to help your son, I want to continue supporting you as well."

Eddard nodded, appreciating my dedication and willingness to be of assistance. He then asked with curiosity, "What are the other matters you wish to share?"

A part of me was tempted to speak of Cersei's plan to take care of Robert to settle Joffrey on the Iron Throne. However, a part of me stopped on this matter. While I was aware Cersei and Joffrey weren't good people, revealing it would play in Baelish's plans but also giving grounds on Eddard's suspicions on the Lannisters' part in Jon Arryn's death, meaning the other informations I intented to tell would go contradictory or ignored. And I was aware that while he was a very decent man in the whole Westerosi nobility, Eddard was also biaised due to his upbringing. "Woman's weapon" came to my mind as I remembered how he reacted to the possibility of poison. While I didn't condone what Cersei did and would do, her upbringing and the Westerosi social frame contributed to made her as much as she held the potential for being the dangerous woman she was. My logical part was screaming to tell it for his friend's concern, but revealing this peculiar information would wreak havoc the ground my previous advices and information created. Even if I couldn't deny the possibility Eddard would let himself blind by his bias, I couldn't allow myself to fuel them, not when the time for delivering advices and knowledge was limited. I dismissed the idea and thought of the three more crucial informations he needed to hear. I forced myself to focus and not to disperse myself when any of the information I would deliver would influence the northerner lord. A part of me hated the situation as it was looking too Dumbledore-like tactics.

I also thought of Vayon. How much did he know of what I had told to Eddard? A certain information that came to my mind was tied to the future and the last thing I needed was to create confusion and to face a comprehensively sceptic or wary steward. And no matter how trustworthy northerners could be to a larger extent than other people in Westeros, I could not take too much risk.

"Before I go on on those informations, my lord, I would like to know how much Vayon knows of… my skills. There is one information that would sound at best dubious and I wouldn't want to create confusion of any sort.", I finally said with a cautious voice while looking at both Eddard and Vayon.

Eddard looked at Vayon, exchanging a brief glance before turning back to me. "Vayon knows that you possess certain knowledge that is beyond our understanding, and he's aware that you come from a place different from ours. However, the specifics of your abilities and the extent of your knowledge are not something he is fully aware of as it is yours to say."

Vayon nodded in confirmation. "Indeed, my lord. Lord Stark explained to me that you possess unique knowledge, and I am aware that there are things you know that I do not fully understand. But I trust in Lord Stark's judgment, and I understand the importance of the situation we find ourselves in. And the advices you just said, while troubling, seem relevant and wise."

I appreciated Vayon's straightforward response and respected his trust in Eddard's judgment. "Thank you for your understanding, Vayon," I said, acknowledging his willingness to accept the unusual circumstances.

Turning my attention back to Eddard, I continued with the more critical informations. I took a deep breath, aware of the importance and of the potential consequences of such information.

"My lord, the second matter I want to tackle with you is tied to both something that has happened some days ago and to another that will happen in the incoming future."

Eddard's furrowed brow conveyed his deep contemplation, while Vayon's gaze remained fixed on me, a mix of intrigue and confusion as it marked the first time I had disclosed such foresights claims before him.

"In some weeks, around the time of your arrival in King's Landing," I began, "your wife will also be arriving in the city. There had been an attempt on your son Bran's life, and the assassin used a Valyrian steel dagger for the deed. Fortunately, your son is alright and the man is dead now, but your wife is coming to warn you of the situation and to show you the dagger."

Eddard's eyes widened in a blend of shock and concern, the gravity of my words sinking in. The revelation of an attack on his son's life, coupled with the involvement of a Valyrian steel dagger and the incoming of his wife, weighed heavily on his heart. He listened intently as I provided further details, elucidating the unfolding situation.

"She is with Rodrik Cassel, but since her physical features are well-known, she will be noticed by Varys and Petyr Baelish," I cautioned. "Officially, they will hide her in one of Petyr Baelish's brothels for her safety. Unofficially, it will be an opportunity for them to choose a scapegoat for the one who commanded the murder attempt."

Dark clouds gathered over Eddard's countenance, a mingling of anger and apprehension. He apprehended the peril his wife, Catelyn, would encounter within the city's confines, and the unsettling reality of her interactions with Varys and Petyr Baelish within such a setting as a brothel. While he grasped the necessity for discretion and her clandestine arrival in King's Landing, he abhorred the thought of her being manipulated regarding the identity of their son's assailant. His gaze bore a somber intensity as he met my eyes, a glint of danger underscoring his intent.

"Do you know who truly wanted my son dead?", his voice carried a steel edge, a reflection of his protective nature.

I sighed and took a deep breath, aware that I wouldn't be able to give a straight answer in this peculiar matter.

"Maybe. Unfortunately, it is one of these situations where my knowledge is muddled. It is either Joffrey because he had heard your friend his father saying that it would be a mercy to end your son's life because of his broken body and comatose state. But it could also be Petyr Baelish because it would help his own plans. I however personally believed the first to be the likeliest, because the catspaw had a sack full of gold and I doubt that Baelish was able to send so quickly a sum to pay the catspaw either by raven or by rider sent such a sum to someone by raven or even by rider, unless he has greensight to foresee the event of your son's fall.", I concluded while shivering in imagining the disasters with Baelish having abilities like Euron Greyjoy.

Eddard's visage hardened, his fists clenched in a silent display of his inner turmoil. The glint in his eyes, a mixture of danger and resolve, spoke volumes of his awareness of the situation's gravity and the weight of his roles both as a father and as the North's Warden. Temptations to reconsider Sansa's betrothal surfaced anew, yet he restrained them, reminding himself that my words, however accurate, could not stand as irrefutable evidence. Blinded faith was not the path he sought, even in the face of such dire revelations and my words of caution on believing my word were echoing in his mind.

"I see," he replied, his voice taut, straining to contain a burgeoning anger. "Joffrey's involvement would hardly come as a shock, given the events that unfolded in the hall yesterday."

He paused, a pregnant silence hanging between his words, as he grappled with the weight of Robert's unsettling statement about ending Bran's life as an act of mercy. His friend's words added another layer of complexity to the maelstrom of emotions swirling within him.

"Robert's words," Eddard's voice quivered with a mixture of ire, sorrow, and exasperation. "He is my trusted comrade, yet comprehending how he could entertain such a notion is beyond me. A mercy? Bran is my blood, my son, and I shall not abandon him in his hour of need."

The revelation surrounding Petyr Baelish's potential involvement in the assassination attempt only stoked the fires of Eddard's intensifying suspicion towards the man. My revelations from before, the ones that revealed Baelish's dubious nature, had already planted the seeds of mistrust within Eddard's mind, and now they had grown into a garden of uncertainty. While I had expressed my doubt in his part, Eddard pledged himself to discover the truth and to find out the real culprit, no matter if it was the prince or Baelish.

Vayon Poole's countenance mirrored Eddard's perturbation, his agreement silently given through a nod. "My lord," he interjected, his tone cautious and advising, "our path in King's Landing must tread with utmost care. With these newfound truths, the shadows seem to harbor peril at every turn. It is imperative that we remain watchful guardians, shielding your kin from those who would sow harm."

I nodded while looking gravely and apprehending a bit what the Northerner lord would do, even with my advices. A part of me regretted to having told such information, but I couldn't let him in the dark and let him being accidentally manipulated because he didn't have information that might save his life if he knew how to handle them.

I spoke with a cautionary voice, "I can just imagine what you are feeling, lord Stark. But please, do not let your emotions guide your actions. Even without me, you have the ability to find who sent the killer to your son but you need to be the direwolf hunting in the dark and unknown woods that King's Landing court intrigues are. There will be a time for justice. Do… Do not make the same mistakes like your brother Brandon did."

My cautionary words hung in the air, a whisper carrying both concern and guidance, addressing Eddard Stark's tumultuous emotions. Eddard's gaze seemed to shift inward for a moment, his eyes reflecting the storm of thoughts raging within him. The echoes of my words reverberated through his mind, resonating with his experiences, his family's history, and the fragile peace he sought to protect. His glance darkened a bit and a part of me was wary of him violently reacting to the mention of his dead brother.

Eddard's thoughts journeyed back to his brother Brandon, whose impulsive actions had ultimately led to tragedy. Brandon's fate was a raw, sensitive topic – a wound that had never fully healed. The memory of his brother's mistakes, tied to the underlying fear of repeating them, stirred a complex blend of emotions within Eddard.

Amid this internal struggle, his features remained a mask of guarded determination. He respected my counsel, recognizing the weight of my words, yet the battle between his emotions and his sense of duty played out in his furrowed brow and the subtle clenching of his jaw.

"Marc," his voice was a low rumble, his tone reflecting both gratitude and tension, "your insights are invaluable, and your caution is well-received. You speak truth; I must not let my emotions cloud my mind. The direwolf's vigilance, tempered by the lessons of history, shall guide me through these treacherous waters."

His words held a promise – a vow to temper his actions with the wisdom of experience, both his own and that of those who had come before him. The resonance of his brother's fate lingered like a cautionary shadow, a reminder that the past could wield a powerful influence over the present.

Vayon Poole's demeanour remained respectfully attentive, his gaze shifting between Eddard and myself. My words had clearly resonated with him, and his approving nod indicated his alignment with my counsel. His loyalty to Eddard was evident in the unwavering support he offered, and he seemed reassured by Eddard's composed response.

As the moment lingered, the weight of responsibility settled more heavily on Eddard's shoulders. He knew that the choices he made would not only shape his family's fate but could also reverberate across the realm. With a final, contemplative glance, Eddard's gaze met mine once again, acknowledging the complexity of the journey ahead.

I sighed in relieved but then took a breath before saying, "Promise me not to mention what I have just revealed to you on the matter of the catspaw and of your wife riding to King's Landing to anyone, not even to her. Not only that would attract attention, but people like Varys or Petyr Baelish can find ways to escape when they are not completely cornered and disarmed of their traditional weapons. They won't hesitate to take care of you if they feel you are a threat and once they find out how you knew the information, I will be on their blacklist. And I do not want to influence the interactions you will have with your wife as she would wonder how you already know she will come to King's Landing or the fact there was a murder attempt on Bran."

As I made my request, a mixture of emotions flickered across Eddard's face. He understood the necessity of keeping this information hidden to protect me and to ensure that his wife's safety wouldn't be compromised. But at the same time, he grappled with the thought of withholding such vital information from Catelyn, his beloved wife.

Eddard's gaze turned distant for a moment, as if he were weighing the potential consequences of revealing or not revealing the truth to Catelyn. His thoughts seemed conflicted, torn between his duty to protect me, his newfound advisor, and his duty as a husband to be open and honest with his wife.

The burden of responsibility was heavy upon him, and I could see the weight of it in the furrowed lines on his forehead. He had always strived to be a man of honour, and this situation put him in a difficult position where he had to make a choice between my safety to me and honesty with Catelyn. He then thought on the fact that the safety of Sansa and of his household could be threatened if the players of King's Landing suspected something amiss in his actions. He understood the need for secrecy, even though he disliked it. But the memory of his promise to Lyanna was strong enough to remind him that he had already did it, even though my request was also tied to the safety of his household, of his family. His expression finally softened, and a determined look replaced the internal struggle he had just experienced. He seemed to have reached a decision.

"I understand the importance of keeping this information concealed," Eddard said, his voice measured and resolute. "I promise you, Marc, that I will not breathe a word of what you've revealed to anyone, including Catelyn."

I looked at him with sadness, "Thank you. I know I put you in a complicated situation, but the context is not ideal for complete openness. You need to convince the people in King's Landing that you are the honourable lord and yet unaware of the true political balances of the capital and doing things in a predictable manner that allow them to plan their next moves. And the secrecy on my role and my knowledge to your wife would last as long as she is not with your family, away from prying ears, in order to allow her to understand my situation and my purpose."

Eddard's gaze met mine with a mixture of understanding and sadness, as if he sensed the weight of my own burdens. His demeanour remained steadfast, a reflection of his commitment to uphold his principles even in the face of the complex circumstances I had woven around him.

"There is no need for apologies," his words carried a tone of reassurance tinged with empathy. "I do not like it, but I recognize the necessity for this discretion, for the intricacies of this perilous game demand it. You're right; King's Landing is a den of vipers, and maneuvering within its labyrinthine politics requires a delicate balance. If the people of King's Landing believe me to be predictable, let them believe that if it allows me to find the truth, to do my duty and to survive this place."

As he spoke, his voice resonated with a sense of both resignation and determination. It was clear that he comprehended the gravity of the situation and the reasons behind the veils that we must maintain.

His expression softened as he continued, a reflection of the protective instincts that guided his actions. "As for Catelyn, you speak true wisdom. She is fiercely loyal to her kin and would be wary of any stranger who appears to hold sway over me, especially in matters that concern our family's well-being."

Eddard's mind seemed to be working through the intricacies, his thoughts both strategic and compassionate. "I understand the need to wait until she returns to Winterfell, until she is shielded by the walls of our home, to reveal your role, especially since you will be there. Only then can she truly comprehend the depth of your purpose and intentions."

He paused for a moment, his cold, judgmental eyes, as some would perceive them, carrying a warmth of trust as he met my gaze again. "Though the path ahead is treacherous, I will navigate it with the same sense of honour that has guided me thus far. You have my word that your identity and your involvement shall remain hidden until the time is right."

The way he spoke reassured me that he valued my counsel and respected my reasoning. It was a testament to the bond that had formed between us in such a short time.

"I appreciate your understanding, my lord," I replied, grateful for his trust. "I will do my best to guide you through this treacherous path and to safeguard your family's well-being."

Vayon Poole, who had been listening attentively to our conversation, spoke up, his voice filled with concern. "My lord, I believe it would be prudent for you to also have a contingency plan in case your wife's safety is compromised. We cannot predict every eventuality, and it would be wise to be prepared for any potential threats that may arise."

Eddard nodded in agreement. "You are right, Vayon. I will make sure to have plans in place to ensure Catelyn's safety, even if our secrets are revealed. Her well-being is of utmost importance to me."

I nodded in approval, "That is a good and wise idea. With how the events may change because of my presence and choices, your wife's path once she left King's Landing after meeting you won't be exactly the same."

I then added, "By the way, just to conclude on this matter, I know who Petyr Baelish and Varys intended to make a scapegoat for the attempted murder, but I won't reveal it to avoid to influence too much the way you will react once it will be revealed to you. Your sincerity will be both your weakness and your strength in King's Landing. However, I can tell you that once I'll be in Winterfell, I will be hopefully in time to delay or to prevent an incoming disaster because the scapegoat would go through Winterfell before going south."

Eddard listened attentively to my words, taking in the information I provided. The mention of a potential scapegoat for the attempted murder piqued his interest, but he respected my decision not to reveal the identity just yet. While he disliked it, he knew that surprises and sudden revelations could be powerful tools in the political game, and he trusted my judgment in this matter.

"I understand, Marc," Eddard said, his tone serious. "I will trust in your guidance, and when the time is right, I will face the truth and act accordingly. As you said, my sincerity will be both my weakness and my strength in King's Landing."

He then asked, a hint of curiosity in his eyes. "What is the last thing you wanted to speak to me?"

I hesitated for a moment, considering it might unweave my efforts to advise caution and discretion to Eddard. But I knew that if I was to give Eddard Stark any chance of survival, he needed the information, both to avoid him to make the mistakes his future-self did without the exact information. But I disliked it because it was a half-truth I was giving him and there was no guarantee it would be enough. But like the issue of revealing Cersei's agenda, it wasn't worth to reveal if it was to propel Eddard to his death.

I reminded myself that Cersei's secret was solely tied to her relation with Jaime and that the only proofs that her children were not fathered by Robert were coincidental at best and I couldn't forget the possibility of exception, especially in regards of Robert's grandmother, Rhaelle Targaryen. A clever man or woman could claim that Robert's three children inherited from their grandmother's side to explain why their hair wasn't their father's colour. And no matter how the author justified by claiming genetics didn't work the same way in Westeros as on Earth, it wasn't an information within the universe story and the possiblity of the reality of Westeros being distinct on some levels to what GRRM envisionned wasn't to dismiss, even if I couldn't regard such hypothesis for granted.

But no matter if Cersei's secret was true or not or that I had not love for Joffrey, condemning his siblings for the stigma of incestuous bastards was the last thing I wanted, especially if the truth wasn't guaranteed. Who I was to put their heads on the gallows for something they didn't do if they truly were Robert's children? I couldn't make the mistake of Eddard or eve Stannis when it concerned such a complex, uncertain and grave information, especially when the physical proof could be used as a fallacy to deny inheritance in other circumstances: by the logic that guided Jon Arryn, Eddard Stark and Stannis Baratheon, a northerner lord could claim that Robb wasn't legitimate because of his hair colour and that Sansa was a by-product of an incestuous and adulterous relation between her mother and her uncle. And even if it was the truth, my word wouldn't be enough and would ironically bring Eddard Stark to do the investigations in King's Landing, playing in the hands of Littlefinger and of the other players, while creating the conditions for a civil war. The only condition in which such issue could be settled would be through a Great Council, but I knew such solution would have its own issues as Tywin would never accept his legacy to be questioned in such a way. Inwardly, I prayed God for giving me peace of mind and to forgive me should my move proved to be an incoming disaster.

Relegating these thoughts, I took a deep breath, "I know you believe the Lannisters behind Jon Arryn's death," I spoke, addressing the conclusions Eddard had drawn based on Lysa Arryn's message. "I know how you suspected their part, but you only have one claim and no other evidence, only words in a paper. While Lysa Arryn is your wife's sister, when was the last time your wife spoke with her? How much do you truly know her?"

Eddard's initial curiosity transformed into a complex interplay of surprise and realization as my words took root within his mind. The conviction he had held, fostered by the communication from his wife's sister, seemed to waver in the face of my reasoning. My line of thought urged him to reevaluate the assumptions he had made based solely on Lysa's message. The weight of my potential insights into the political machinations carried a resonance that seemed to give his convictions pause, even though it was a conflicting thought because of my warning on Cersei's intents.

My words prompted him to contemplate the relationship his wife had with her sister, the true extent of his knowledge of Lysa's character, and the reliability of the information she had shared. He had been relying on her words, convinced of their veracity, but the seeds of doubt I planted began to sprout. A part of him was however questioning, wondering why I would shed such doubt, especially when I asked his protection to preserve myself from the Lannisters.

"Are you suggesting that the Lannisters may not be responsible for Jon Arryn's death?" Eddard's question hung in the air, a cautious seeking of confirmation from me and testing my reasoning.

I nodded gravely in response to Eddard's inquiry, my demeanor a reflection of the solemnity of our discussion.

"I do, my lord. While the Lannister are responsible for many crimes because of wounded pride and short-sightedness when it concerns fulfilling their ambitions, Jon Arryn's demise is not their doing."

I straightened my glance and raised a warning finger, "Moreover, it's well-known how you hold a deep-rooted aversion to their house due to their past deeds as it is a known fact they are so predictable in cruelty and violence. It would be very easy to pin blame on them for something they could have done and then to warn you, making you a pawn in another's hands."

Eddard's thoughts appeared to be in turmoil as he weighed the truth of my words against his convictions. His internal struggle was apparent, his brows furrowed in contemplation. My revelation clashed with his preconceived notions, pushing against the enmity he had harboured towards the Lannisters ever since the sacking of King's Landing. The idea that someone might manipulate his loathing and the Lannisters' notoriety for their own gains unsettled him deeply, especially when he considered the treacherous political landscape awaiting him in King's Landing. A part of him wondered why I was telling this, but he decided to understand where I would go with my claims and knowledge.

"You present a valid argument," he finally conceded, his voice a mixture of acknowledgment and vulnerability.

His eyes, cold and judgmental by reputation, now bore a wary but expectant expression as he regarded me. His question hung between us like a suspended sword, and I understood the gravity of the moment. He sought answers that could unravel the mysteries he was confronting, and in his gaze, I sensed a newfound willingness to consider perspectives beyond his own.

Vayon's gaze flickered between us, his curiosity piqued by the revelations that had unfolded in our conversation. The disturbing nature of the information was clear, and it seemed that the intricacies of the unfolding intrigue had captured his attention.

Eddard's gaze bore a mixture of wariness and anticipation, his eyes locked onto mine as he voiced his question with a blend of hope and trepidation. "If it is not the Lannisters, who is truly behind Jon Arryn's death?"

Vayon's gaze shifted between us, his intrigue and curiosity apparent. The revelations of our ongoing discussion had undeniably surpassed the threshold of the expected, leaving him both captivated and unnerved by the unfolding complexity.

Drawing a steadying breath, I met Eddard's expectant eyes with a demeanor that reflected both gravity and resolve. "Well, my lord," I began, my voice even and unwavering. "Before his death, your foster father was handling matters that impacts the realm with the support of Stannis Baratheon. Due to this collaboration, he confided in his wife his intention to send their son to Dragonstone under the wardship of Stannis Baratheon."

I continued, my voice measured as I illuminated the complexities of the situation. "Lysa, however, couldn't bear the thought of being separated from her only living child, having endured the agony of multiple lost pregnancies. Her attachment to Robin was profound, evidenced by her continued breastfeeding despite his age."

Eddard and Vayon looked at me a bit disturbed, probably imagining the scene. I suspected Eddard wondering how sane his goodsister was for handling in such a way her son, the heir and now lord of the Vale.

A sense of calculated manipulation hung in the air as I delved deeper into the deception. "It was Petyr Baelish who seized upon Lysa's vulnerability, exploiting her love for her son and her affection for him. He insidiously planted the idea that her husband's demise would free her from the prospect of sending Robin away. This, in turn, would allow him to solidify his own ambitions."

I paused, the weight of my words echoing in the space between us. "Baelish's orchestration extended further," I continued, each word a revelation of the dark tapestry woven by his schemes. "He prompted Lysa to write the coded message to your wife, Catelyn, knowing that the intricate cipher would lend an air of authenticity. He wagered on your loyalty to your former foster father, your friendship with the king, and your disdain for the Lannisters. These elements were skillfully woven into the message, compelling you to accept the position of Hand and, ultimately, to investigate Jon Arryn's death as orchestrated by his manipulative tune."

Eddard's countenance, that was already shaking, finally contorted, a fusion of anger, disbelief, and shock settling upon his features. The revelation that his wife's own sister could have played a part in Jon Arryn's demise was a bitter pill to swallow. The gravity of Petyr Baelish's malevolent orchestrations weighed heavily upon him.

"Lysa," Eddard murmured, his voice carrying a mixture of sorrow and regret. "My wife's own sister..."

Vayon Poole's expression mirrored Eddard's shock, a testament to the profundity of the revelation. He spoke with a measured tone, encapsulating the collective sentiment in the room. "It's a distressing revelation indeed, my lord."

In this moment, the room seemed to hold its breath, encapsulating the shockwaves generated by the revelation of Petyr Baelish's sinister role in the grand tapestry of events. The air was heavy with the weight of betrayal and manipulation, leaving the three of us to grapple with the tangled threads of truth and deceit.

Eddard's response was a deep inhalation, a measure of the weightiness of the revelation he had just absorbed. "So, Baelish employed Lysa's vulnerabilities to orchestrate this heinous act," he murmured, his words heavy with the gravity of realization. "He aimed to sow discord between my House and the Lannisters while advancing his own clandestine ambitions."

With each piece fitting into the puzzle, the contours of Baelish's insidious plot became clearer. My initial nod affirmed Eddard's understanding, a silent confirmation of the truth that had come to light.

"Precisely, my lord," I affirmed somberly. "Petyr Baelish is a master at navigating the intricate dance of power. He thrives in the shadows, using every tool at his disposal to achieve his ends. Approach him in King's Landing with the utmost caution, for his cunning knows no bounds."

Eddard's visage shifted, his features sculpted by determination as he responded with an unwavering resolve. "Rest assured, Marc. I will not underestimate Baelish's cunning and treachery," he proclaimed firmly. "I shall remain vigilant, striving to unravel the tapestry of his deceptions. My duty to my family and the realm compels me."

I acknowledged his commitment with a nod, but then offered a cautionary reminder, my tone weighted with concern. "But do proceed with care. Petyr Baelish is akin to a serpent, slithering through the shadows and exploiting every weakness he finds. He can easily elude threats if he anticipates them. Even with your knowledge now on his deeds and his agenda, my word alone won't suffice. Gathering concrete evidence against your goodsister and Baelish's role in your foster father's death will prove exceedingly challenging. He possesses spies and an acute sense of perception. Should he perceive you as a threat to his designs, he won't hesitate to align with the queen to orchestrate your downfall, something he would do in future."

Eddard's expression retained its seriousness, his thoughts evidently absorbed by the implications of my words. Meanwhile, Vayon Poole appeared intrigued and perturbed by the concept of potential futures, his gaze shifting between us as he attempted to decipher the intricate layers of our conversation. A part of me was wondering if he wasn't thinking me to be some sort of sorcerer for the best or a charlatan for the worse.

"I am well aware of the risks involved in confronting Baelish," Eddard declared, his voice unyielding. "From your descriptions, it's evident that he's a puppeteer of manipulation, and I shall not underestimate him. Every step I take will be marked by vigilance and caution."

I nodded, acknowledging the depth of his commitment. "Indeed, vigilance is your best ally in such matters. Just as Petyr Baelish is a master of deception, so is Varys, weaving intricate webs of intrigue."

I took a breath before continuing, "Concerning Lysa, you can't make her leave the Eyrie and informing her in one way or another on her part in her husband's death would make her inform Baelish that something is amiss.."

Eddard nodded, understanding the difficulty of confronting Lysa directly while deeply disliking the intricacy of the situation.

"You're right. I cannot risk confronting Lysa directly, not without solid evidence," Eddard replied, his voice tinged with frustration. "If she were to deny any involvement and I failed to prove her guilt, it could lead to further complications, and I dare not create tensions with the Vale."

Vayon Poole contributed his insight, suggesting an alternative course of action. "My lord, perhaps seeking counsel from the Valemen lords could provide a way forward. You know them and the ties you have built with them could lead to valuable insights into Lysa's actions and behavior."

Eddard's contemplative nod acknowledged the merit of the idea. "Indeed, involving the Valemen lords is a prudent step. They may also have their suspicions regarding Baelish's involvement, considering his position and influence. I shall draft discreet letters to them, seeking their guidance without fully divulging our suspicions."

I chimed in, offering my agreement to the proposed plan, glad to see that they were able to find solutions I didn't think of. "It sounds like a wise strategy, my lord. Tapping into the knowledge of the Valemen lords and enlisting their cooperation could prove instrumental in unraveling the truth surrounding Jon Arryn's death."

Eddard's expression shifted into one of determination as he accepted the direction to take. "Very well, I will set this plan into motion immediately. Vayon, prepare the necessary correspondence and ensure they are dispatched through reliable channels. We shall proceed with caution, allowing each piece of information to guide our steps through this intricate puzzle."

Hearing those words made me proud as they found a solution to one of the issues without my own inputs. My cautious self was however still wary as I knew that those first steps wouldn't be enough and that anything could go awry in one way or another. I suddenly remembered something that could be helpful to Eddard Stark if it was well done.

I looked at the northerner lord, "There is a potential lead within King's Landing itself, in the form of Jon Arryn's squire, a knight now by the name of Hugh. However, time is of the essence. Baelish will likely move to eliminate him as a witness and to further his designs of stoking tensions between your House and the Lannisters."

Eddard's nod indicated his grasp of the situation, his eyes focused on the information I presented.

"Furthermore," I continued, "Hugh's newfound status as a knight has fueled his pride, making him resistant to speaking to anyone other than yourself. Even then, his loyalty might be swayed if Baelish has gained influence over him. Should you manage to communicate with him, exercise extreme caution in handling the information. Remember, the queen, Baelish, and Varys will have their eyes on you and your moves through their web of spies."

Eddard's expression remained serious, his eyes reflecting his acknowledgment of the complexity of the situation. The potential lead was both a ray of hope and a potential trap, and he recognized the need for careful maneuvering.

"Thank you for this information," Eddard replied, his gratitude apparent. "I will proceed cautiously, keeping these considerations in mind. My goal is to uncover the truth behind Jon Arryn's death while safeguarding my family and my own position from the dangers lurking in King's Landing."

Vayon Poole nodded in agreement, his loyalty unwavering. "You have my full support, my lord. We shall navigate this treacherous landscape together, one step at a time."

Eddard nodded gratefully to his loyal steward. "Thank you, Vayon. Your loyalty is invaluable to me, and I know I can trust you with my family's safety."

I observed the northerner lord and his steward interacting, a part of me glad that at least, Eddard would first rely on his advisors and friends to make decisions. My knowledgeable and cautious sides reminded me that it wouldn't be enough as they would face the dangerous and uncertain intrigues of King's Landing, but there was a start for everything and only lord Stark and his household and those that would join him in King's Landing could make the call from my information and advices. Eddard turned his eyes on me, "Is that all?"

I pondered his words for a short while, thinking on something he needed to know. I immediately thought of Varys. If I informed the northerner lord of the mockingbird's plot, it was fair and necessary for him to know about the spider's plans.

I spoke in a steady and wary voice, "No. There is the matter of Varys."

Eddard's brow furrowed in cautiousness and wariness, "The Spider? What can you tell more of him?"

"The man will claim he is working for the good of the realm, but in reality, he is pursuing his own agenda, putting his own champion on the Iron Throne through the means of a future civil war as a means to bring his champion as the peace Harbinger with the fallacious excuse that peace was always present in Westeros under the Targaryens' rule on the Iron Throne.", I explained.

Eddard's expression hardened, realizing the extent of Varys's manipulations and the danger posed by his schemes. The depth of the eunuch's manipulation and the peril his plans posed were no longer obscure. He knew he had to be wary of both Baelish and Varys, who were playing a deadly game of thrones, using any means to achieve their objectives. He already disliked the eunuch and hearing my words fortified his views on the man.

I concluded my warning, emphasizing the complexity of the situation they faced. "As much as I dislike to tell you this, especially after the revelations I've just made, do not try to topple too quickly Baelish. While he is your main enemy, neutering him would mean open gates to Varys and his plans, which mean a civil war to carve the path for the return of Dragons, whatever they are black or red. And if the eunuch thinks you will prevent it from occurring, he won't hesitate to kill you, no matter how friendly and helpful he would have been with you in the past."

Eddard nodded solemnly, fully aware of the dangerous game he was about to play in King's Landing. He knew that the balance of power was delicate, and one wrong move could lead to disastrous consequences for both his family and the realm.

A part of me wondered if it was a good idea. However, no matter how helpful the Targaryens might be in the future in the fight against the White Walkers, I had very strong reservations about their abilities to rule, especially since Daenerys, Young Griff and Jon were completely unaware of Aegon's dream if such secret was real in this reality And I couldn't trust people like Varys or Doran who intended to use them as their pawns for their own agendas, one trying to settle his own vision of the Seven Kingdoms with the excuse of the Greater Good, the other playing Tywin 2.0 for daughter's foolish betrothal and Kingmaker at the same time. The legitimacy they might have earned through the Conquest was now in shreds because of their lack of foresight in building their legitimacy, relying too much on their dragons. Fools all of them. Relying too much on one strength to build its power is the quickest way to either being dependent to the point it crippled you or made you easy to topple or allow other to gather against you, putting you in a permanent state of paranoia and weakness. Dragons might be dangerous and powerful creatures, but relying too much on them as inviting trouble to its door.

"Thank you for your counsel, Marc," Eddard said, his voice tinged with determination. "I will be cautious in my actions and seek counsel from those I trust before making any decisions. The future you speak of is troubling, but I will do my best to prevent it from becoming a reality."

Vayon Poole nodded in agreement, "As Lord Eddard said, we are grateful for your counsel. We understand the importance of being well-informed, even if the knowledge comes from sources beyond our comprehension."

Eddard then asked, "That was all you wanted to tell us?"

I thought upon it, considering revealing the potential secret of the dagger he would soon see and have. But I hesitated. Even if he believed me, he remained a practical man who wouldn't regard prophecies with much regards, especially if he found out that was why Rhaegar did his deeds and stunts. And I wasn't certain how much of "House of the Dragons" would be reliable in this reality, not to mention the fact I only heard of it and saw extracts on Youtube. Even more than my knowledge of the current and incoming events, the knowledge of the potential truth on the Dance of Dragons was something I needed to thread with cautious.

I finally answered, "All that may help you for the incoming future, my lord."

A part of me prayed that what I have given to him would be enough and that what I didn't inform him wouldn't come back to haunt me later in one way or another. Otherwise, I could wish to take the black for misleading and creating a worse situation. I chased away such strong thought as it was my very sensitive side that was expressing itself with no relevant reason.

Eddard nodded before saying, "All right, then. Let us join the others and share a meal together."

As we made our way to the main hall, I couldn't help but feel a mix of responsibility and trepidation. I had revealed information about potential future events, and now it was up to Eddard and his household to decide how to proceed. I could only hope that my advice would prove beneficial and help them navigate the dangerous waters of King's Landing. As we were moving in the corridors of Darry Castle, I also felt a mix of trepidation and concern, knowing that I would soon be formally introduced to the household, even though Arya and Vayon Poole had already interacted with me.

"I would like to know," I asked, "would you prefer to introduce me, or would you like me to do it?"

Eddard thought for a moment before responding, "I believe it would be best if I introduce you, given the circumstances. It will lend a sense of authority and legitimacy to your presence."

I nodded understandingly, realizing the significance of this moment and aware that I was now part of his household. It marked the transition from being an outsider to becoming a recognized member of Eddard Stark's household. With a deep breath, I steeled myself for what lay ahead as we continued our discussion while preparing to break our fast in Darry Castle.

A.N.:

1. Back to the MC in this eighth chapter ! A chapter where he gave new and last advices given in a context of uncertainty for the time of departure towards Winterfell. This chapter is the result of different rewrite, both from ChatGPT's help through my requests and of my own.

2. Initially, there was only Eddard Stark that was writing the advices. However, I found that a bit dubious and problematic that a highborn lord would write himself these kind of advices, even someone from the North, not to mention the fact that I introduced the idea of Vayon Poole writing down the advices afterwards. Moreover, I found it more interesting that Eddard has someone he knows who would be aware of the peculiar nature of the advices and knowledge to help him to make his own decisions without relying too much on the advices the SI would give him, not to mention the fact he can offer some ideas and perspectives (the Vale lord contact is one example). For the same reason, adding last revelations in the chapter was a later inclusion and rewrite because no matter his wariness on backlash due to the way his deeds would bring, the SI can't let Ned go into complete dark as his main enemies are not obvious in their strategies and moves.

3. Of course, that raised the issue of how to tackle the revelations in the second part of the chapter and I include in one of the last rewrite the passage where the MC asked about Vayon's knowledge extent on the pecularities he has. As he didn't ask any promise to Eddard to hide his knowledge before the revelation on the murder attempt on Bran and the fact he would be away in Winterfell, I consider it possible that Ned would have to say what has been discussed in the previous discussion with his steward, not to mention that Vayon would write down the advices, meaning he would find them a bit puzzling and dubious coming from a complete foreigner claiming to have no ties with the Seven Kingdoms. That doesn't mean he would completely trust them, but he would understand how and why.

4. You may have noticed the addition of a new advice among those written down that wasn't mentioned in the fourth or fifth chapter. This advice is an hidden reference to what Ned did in canon when he found out the "truth" on Cersei's children and when his friend was dying. Perhaps one of the most conflicting advices due to Eddard's sense of duty and his friendship to Robert, but that was something I thouht would be interesting to explore.

5. You surely have noticed a little reference tied to the HOTD in the end of the chapter. Initially, the SI tells a little bit more, but I decided against it for many reasons and to add other layers on the SI's personality and reasonings. I didn't see the first season, but saw some scene extracts on Youtube, not to mention the analysis videos on some of the matters, while add more complexity to the knowledge of the MC. Is the events of HOTD relevant in this reality of Westeros or not ? Even more than Game of Thrones or A Song of Ice and Fire, the fragmentary knowledge is a huge flaw and weakness for the SI who is even more wary to dispell informations he had known on the matter due to deep uncertainty.

6. Concerning the revelations, it was a bit complicated matter I thought upon before choosing this final approach. Among the issues that Eddard would have to handle in priority to survive King's Landing, the fact that two members of the Small council play a far dangerous game than they seemed to play due to their status was for me far more important than the issue of Cersei's children or Cersei's agenda. Moreover, due to their position and their past deeds, the Lannisters are IMO one of the most predictable actors in the Game of Thrones, the only unpredictibality is tied on to what extent they may go into violence and cruelty. Conversely, people in the shadows like Varys or Littlefinger are more difficult to predict and while their dangerosity may be suspected, it is generally not easy to decipher it. And finally, there is the fact that Eddard's distrust of the Lannisters can be a dangerous bias to use against him, which kind of happened in the canon. Revealing those secrets would play full time in his biais and in Baelish's plans while threatening the strength of the other advices (at least from the MC's perspective), not to mention the hazard to attract more unwanted attention. And there are other reasons as mentionned in the chapter that are reflections of my own. The SI assumes that Ned Stark's distrust of the Lannister is strong enough not to be fooled by them, especially after how the events in Darry Castle Hall prevailed.

7. Of course, revealing such information present their own challenges due to the emotional dimension, especially regarding Bran and Jon Arryn. That's why reminding the advice of thinking like a commander and highlighting the advice of not revealing anything that would indicate he is aware of more than he is supposed to know are vital. I am aware of the cliche opinion of Ned the honorable fool, but this is not that came to my mind when I had read the first book and watched the show. All I see is a man of principle sure, but a man who is not jumping straight into easy traps and when he did, it is because of a lack of information, of awareness of the situation and of biais (not to mention specifics circumstances like the wound after the fight against Jaime). The reference to his brother, while risky, is like a reminder of what happened whe you jumped straifght forward due to emotions. Same reason why he asks Ned not to reveal anything to Catelyn or to show he knows more than he should. It is a game of cat and mouse Ned has to play, at least from the SI's perspective.

8. Would it be enough ? Of course not. On the one hand, while Ned will be more prepared to face King's Landing, he has also to play a game of fooling those who would seek harm to his family and him. On the other hand, he has to check himself the knowledge and information, both due to his own personality but also because the MC warns him about the limits and flaws of his own knowledge and the hazards of overreliance, not to mention his own biais especially concerning the fact his goodsister might be a murderer. And there are of course the ripples and the butterfly effect that can detract everything, especially well-planned projects. And while the SI tries to make small steps to make changes, he is aware and wary of the fact it might fall into chaos.

9. I admit this was the harder chapter to imagine because of the thin balance of plausibility in the context of this fanfiction but also because I had to handle a certain context and timing. One way to see it is the extent of the dilemmas and inner conflicts of the SI on how to deliver key information in a context he considers as relevant. If he reveals some crucial information, he might contribute to spark the conflicts much earlier or in much murkier ways. That won't excuse the potential flaws I didn't notice, but that would give a certain idea of possibilities that the SI's choices can bring.

10. Next time, a breakfast introduction to the household and a sibling quarrel...

11. Have a good reading !