Chapter 13

After the Welcome Feast for the royal party, Harry and Dany slipped away into the night, eager to escape the oppressive air of the Great Hall. Dany, in particular, needed to distance herself from Prince Joffrey's lecherous gaze. The training grounds, bathed in the cool glow of moonlight, offered a sanctuary of quiet amidst the growing storm.

As they approached, they saw Jon Snow, his focus entirely on his archery practice. The twang of his bowstring cut through the night, each arrow flying true to its mark with the precision of a seasoned hand.

"Jon," Harry called out, his voice low yet clear, carrying easily in the stillness. Jon turned, a rare smile breaking across his usually somber features at the sight of them.

"Dany, Harry," he greeted, lowering his bow. "I didn't expect to see you here. The feast too much for you as well?"

Dany nodded, her relief evident. "I needed some fresh air. And some distance from Prince Joffrey."

Jon chuckled, a knowing look passing between them. "I don't blame you. He's insufferable."

Harry stepped closer to the targets, examining Jon's work with a critical eye. "You've improved," he remarked. "Not a single arrow out of place."

Jon shrugged, ever modest. "I've had a lot of practice. It helps clear my mind."

Dany, intrigued, glanced at the bow in Jon's hand. "May I?" she asked, extending her hand.

Jon handed it over with a nod. "Of course."

Dany nocked an arrow, her movements smooth and confident. She drew the bowstring back, holding it steady for a moment before releasing. The arrow flew straight, striking the center of the target with a solid thud.

"Impressive," Jon said, genuine admiration in his voice.

Dany smiled, lowering the bow. "Harry taught me well."

Harry leaned against one of the posts, a grin on his face. "You've always had a natural talent."

For a moment, they stood in companionable silence, the training grounds offering a brief respite from the weight of their duties. But the tension that had shadowed them all evening was not so easily dispelled.

Jon was the first to break the quiet, his voice thoughtful. "So, what do you think of the King and his entourage?"

Harry and Dany exchanged a glance, their expressions darkening as they recalled the secrets they had uncovered during the feast. Both had employed the subtle art of Legilimency on the royal party, and what they had gleaned was both troubling and dangerous.

With a heavy sigh, Harry began. "The King… Robert Baratheon is a shadow of the man he once was. The warrior who claimed the throne with fire and blood has been consumed by his own appetites. Now he's little more than a fat, drunken fool, more interested in the bottom of his cup and the warmth of whores than in ruling the realm. He lives in the past, reliving his glory days in the shadow of his prime."

Dany's expression turned grim as she continued. "His obsession with Lyanna Stark is nothing short of madness. To him, she was never a person, but an object—something beautiful he desired but could never have. The rebellion he led, the war that tore the realm apart… it was less a fight for justice and more the tantrum of a man-child who couldn't bear being denied."

Jon's face hardened, the weight of their words sinking in. "And Queen Cersei?"

Harry's gaze darkened. "Cersei Lannister is a creature of cruelty, driven by insecurities that twist her every action. She's a woman who lashes out when she doesn't get what she wants—and what she wants, more than anything, is her twin brother's bed. Jaime has his limits, though, and when he denies her, she seeks her revenge in the arms of their kin."

Dany's voice grew colder as she elaborated. "She's had affairs with both Kevan and Tygett Lannister—her uncles. From those unions, she bore three bastards: Joffrey, Tommen, and Myrcella. She passes them off as the King's children, but they're nothing more than pawns in her game of power and spite."

Jon's eyes widened in shock. "Joffrey… he's one of them?"

"Joffrey," Harry said, his voice laced with disgust, "is a vicious, sadistic little wretch. He delights in cruelty—cutting open animals, tormenting his siblings. If he ever takes the throne, Westeros will suffer under the rule of a true monster."

Jon's fists clenched, his anger barely contained. "We can't let Sansa marry him. It's too dangerous. He'd destroy her."

Dany placed a hand on Jon's arm, her touch grounding him. "We won't let that happen, Jon. Sansa deserves better than Joffrey. She deserves kindness, not cruelty."

Jon's gaze sharpened, his resolve hardening. "And Jaime? What's his part in this?"

Harry sighed, the conflict clear in his eyes. "Jaime Lannister… is a man caught between honor and the love he cannot shake. The world sees him as the Kingslayer, a man without honor, but they don't know the truth. When he killed King Aerys, he was saving the realm from a fate worse than death. The Mad King had planned to ignite the wildfire hidden throughout King's Landing, to burn the city and its people to ash. Jaime's blade stopped that madness, but it cost him his honor."

Dany's voice softened, tinged with a pity that she rarely allowed herself to feel. "And yet, despite this, his sister torments him. Cersei lures other Lannisters into her bed—any who will have her—and forces Jaime to guard her door as she lies with them. It's her twisted punishment for his refusals, and Jaime endures it, silent, because he still loves her. But the honor he clings to, the last remnants of it, are fraying."

Jon looked as though he'd been struck, struggling to reconcile the truths he'd just learned with the world he thought he knew. "How can they live like that? It's… monstrous."

Dany nodded solemnly. "It is. But we need to understand their game if we're to survive it. They are powerful and dangerous, and they won't hesitate to crush us if we stand in their way."

Jon's fists slowly unclenched as he absorbed their words, his expression hardening with determination. "I don't like Joffrey. We need to be careful around him. And we can't let Sansa be tied to that… creature."

Harry gave Jon a small, reassuring smile. "We'll stay vigilant, Jon. We'll watch out for each other, and we won't let them play us."

Jon nodded, the weight of their shared resolve settling over them like armor. "We're stronger together. As long as we remember that, we'll face whatever comes our way."

—

As the conversation wound down, Jaime and a notably inebriated Tyrion Lannister stumbled onto the training grounds. Jaime's sharp gaze, unfazed by the revelry of the evening, settled on Jon Snow, who was diligently adjusting his bowstring.

With a smirk that bordered on condescension, Jaime approached Jon. "So, you're the Stark bastard. I've heard whispers about you," he said, his voice dripping with feigned disdain. "I hear you're set on joining the Night's Watch. Quite the noble pursuit, though I doubt I would trade the comforts of Winterfell for a life of celibacy and frostbitten nights. Is there something you seek to escape?"

Jon's jaw tightened at the sarcasm, yet he held his composure. "It is a duty of honor," he answered resolutely.

Jaime chuckled, a glimmer of genuine respect breaking through his derision. "Honor, indeed. But I can't say I envy you. A life among the icy wastes and the wildlings? You must have strong reasons to seek such a path."

Before Jon could respond, Harry interjected. "Ser Jaime, Jon will not be joining the Night's Watch."

Dany, her voice steady, added, "He'll be traveling with us instead, serving as my sworn shield."

Jaime raised an eyebrow, taking in the exchange with a mixture of curiosity and surprise. "Is that so? And what prompts this change?"

Harry's gaze remained firm. "Jon's skills and loyalty are better suited to our journey. We need someone of his caliber."

Dany nodded, her tone unyielding. "Jon has proven his worth. He will serve us well, and we trust him implicitly."

Jaime regarded Jon thoughtfully, his smirk fading as he considered their words. "A sworn shield, you say? It seems fate has charted a different course for you, Snow."

Jon stood taller, buoyed by the support of Harry and Dany. "It does. I have a new path to follow."

Tyrion, watching with a sharp eye despite his inebriation, spoke up. "Well, that certainly shifts the ground beneath us. Perhaps our paths will cross again."

Harry responded with a wry smile. "Perhaps. The world has a way of converging the paths of its players."

Jaime's gaze narrowed slightly but he nodded in acknowledgment. "Very well. We shall see how this new arrangement unfolds. Good luck, Jon Snow."

Tyrion stepped closer, his tone unexpectedly somber. "Jon Snow," he began, "you are a bastard, yes. Let me offer some advice. Never forget what you are. The world will not let you forget. Wear it like armor, and it will never be used to wound you."

Jon looked at Tyrion, intrigued by the depth of his words. "And what would you know about being a bastard, my lord?"

Tyrion's eyes, sharp despite the haze of wine, met Jon's. "All dwarfs are bastards in their father's eyes," he replied, his tone grave. "A Lannister name may shield me from some scorn, but it doesn't alter how I am seen by my family or the world."

Jon frowned, grappling with the concept. "But you're still a Lannister. You hold power—"

"And yet," Tyrion interrupted, "I am still a dwarf. Still the source of my father's shame, the subject of whispers and scorn. Bastard or dwarf, we both bear the burden of being different in a world that prizes conformity. Never forget what you are, Jon Snow. Wear it like armor, and it will never be used to harm you."

Jon considered Tyrion's words, feeling a kinship with the sharp-witted dwarf. "I will remember that," he said quietly.

Tyrion's smile softened, genuine warmth in his eyes. "Good. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to procure more wine before the evening's chaos fully unfurls." With a final nod to Harry and Dany, Tyrion ambled away, leaving Jon with much to ponder.

Jaime then turned his attention to Hadrian, his gaze appraising as he regarded the young man. "Hadrian Peverell," he began, his tone casual yet edged with genuine curiosity, "I've heard you're a skilled swordsman. Care to test your mettle?"

Hadrian met Jaime's gaze with an even look, a spark of challenge in his eyes. "I'd be honored, Ser Jaime," he replied, his tone edged with anticipation.

Jaime's lips curled into a smirk, a glint of excitement in his eyes. "Excellent. Let's see what you're made of, Lord of Avalon."

Dany interjected gently, her voice calm but firm. "Perhaps it would be wiser to defer the spar until morning. Both of you have been drinking, and it wouldn't be fair to judge each other's skills under such conditions."

Jaime raised an eyebrow, contemplating her words before nodding in agreement. "Very well. Tomorrow morning it shall be."

Hadrian inclined his head in acknowledgment, a faint smile on his lips. "Agreed."

With the matter settled, the tension in the air eased, and the group dispersed, each anticipating the challenge that awaited them with the dawn.

—

As Harry, Jon, and Dany entered Lord Stark's solar, they found Robb and Ned already present. Fleur quickly cast privacy charms at the door, ensuring their discussion would remain confidential.

The room settled into a tense silence as Ned's gaze fell upon Harry, Jon, and Dany with a mixture of curiosity and anticipation. "Did you uncover anything about Lord Arryn's death?" he asked, his tone heavy with concern.

Harry and Dany exchanged a meaningful look before Harry spoke.

"We've learned that none here at Winterfell were involved in Jon Arryn's demise," Harry began, his voice steady. "However, we discovered from the queen's thoughts that Jon Arryn had uncovered a dangerous secret—the true parentage of the royal children."

Ned's brow furrowed. "What secret about the royal children?"

Harry's voice grew solemn. "Joffrey, Myrcella, and Tommen are not Robert Baratheon's trueborn children. They are the result of incest between Queen Cersei and her brothers, Kevan and Tygett Lannister."

Dany nodded in agreement. "Indeed. Jon Arryn learned of this scandalous truth, and it was this revelation that led to his death. The Lannisters have been passing these children off as Baratheons to solidify their claim to the throne."

The gravity of the revelation struck Ned and Robb hard. Ned's face hardened as he processed the implications, while Robb's expression darkened with concern. They exchanged a look, silently acknowledging the seriousness of the information they had just been given.

Robb spoke up, his voice resolute. "Father, we cannot allow Sansa to marry Joffrey. Not after what we've discovered."

Ned nodded, his worry palpable. "You're right, Robb. But rejecting the king's offer without exposing the truth about Cersei's treachery... It's a perilous situation that demands careful handling."

Harry agreed, his tone grave. "Revealing the truth without solid evidence would be reckless. We must gather proof before taking any definitive action."

Dany, her resolve firm, added, "Harry and I will find a way to annul Sansa's betrothal and expose Cersei's betrayal. We are committed to ensuring justice prevails, and we will not rest until the truth is revealed."

Ned and Robb nodded, their expressions a mix of determination and apprehension as they prepared for the difficult path ahead.

"Very well," Ned said, his expression resolute. "I will accept the position of Hand of the King. Together, we will uncover the truth behind Jon Arryn's death and bring justice to those responsible."

"Indeed," Harry replied. "Is there anyone in King's Landing whom you trust, someone who could assist us and make our task easier?"

Ned nodded thoughtfully. "Catelyn suggested we reach out to Petyr Baelish, the Master of Coin. He's an old childhood friend of hers and, according to her, trustworthy. He might help us navigate the complexities of King's Landing."

Harry's disdain was evident. "Trustworthy? Baelish is rumored to be quite the scoundrel. From what we've gleaned using Legilimency on various members of the king's entourage, Baelish has been spreading vile rumors."

Dany, with a somber expression, added, "He's been boasting about his conquests with disturbing frequency. According to the whispers, he's been claiming to have had intimate relations with both Lady Catelyn and Lady Arryn. It's a scandalous boast meant to elevate his standing and diminish their honor."

Ned's face darkened, his jaw clenching with anger. "If Petyr has spoken of my wife and Jon Arryn's widow in such a manner, he is beyond redemption. I will not involve such a man in our plans."

Jon's eyes narrowed, his stance firm. "We need allies who will stand by us with true loyalty, not someone who spreads vile rumors to serve his own interests."

Robb's expression was a mix of anger and resolve. "Mother has always believed in Baelish, but if he's as dishonorable as Harry and Dany say, we must reconsider. We cannot risk Sansa's future or allow a man like Baelish to get close to us."

Ned nodded in agreement. "We will find another way. Our plans must proceed without the involvement of those who cannot be trusted."

A sharp knock at the door interrupted their conversation. Ned exchanged a quick, wary glance with Harry before speaking.

"Enter," he called out.

The door creaked open, and Maester Luwin stepped inside. "My lord, your brother Benjen has arrived from Castle Black." He paused, casting a glance at the assembled group. "Shall I return later?"

Ned's brows rose in surprise, but his demeanor remained composed. "No, Maester Luwin. Bring him in."

Maester Luwin nodded and stepped back out, leaving the door ajar. Moments later, Benjen Stark strode into the room, his heavy cloak dusted with the chill of the North.

"Benjen," Ned greeted, moving to clasp his brother's arm in a firm embrace. "It's good to see you. How fares Castle Black?"

Benjen's grip was as steady as his gaze. "Ned, it's good to be here. Castle Black remains as somber as ever. I came to pay my respects to the King and his entourage, but we also need to discuss the deserter you executed."

Ned's face darkened. "The man was driven mad by fear, babbling of White Walkers and the dead rising. His mind was lost."

Benjen's face grew graver. "That's what I feared. There's unsettling activity beyond the Wall. The wildlings are stirring, and darker whispers reach our ears. Will had seen something troubling. We cannot dismiss these warnings."

Ned frowned. "We will discuss this in detail. For now, join us. There is much unfolding here that you need to be aware of."

Benjen nodded and entered the room fully, Maester Luwin quietly closing the door behind him.

Benjen greeted his nephews with a warm embrace. "Robb, Jon," he said, his voice carrying the warmth of family. "It's good to see you both." He then turned to Harry, a genuine smile breaking through his otherwise stern demeanor. "And Hadrian, it's a pleasure. How have you fared?"

Harry returned the smile. "Good to see you too, Benjen. I've managed well, all things considered."

Benjen looked around at the faces in the room. "It's good to be back, even briefly. We have much to discuss, both concerning the Wall and the unfolding events here."

Ned nodded and gestured for Benjen to join them. "Indeed, Benjen. Let us sit and talk."

Harry turned to Benjen with a grin. "Benjen, allow me to introduce my wife, Fleur."

Dany stepped forward, extending her hand with a warm smile. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Benjen."

Benjen's eyes widened in pleasant surprise. "Your wife? Congratulations, Hadrian! That is wonderful news."

Harry's grin widened. "Thank you, Benjen. We finally made it official last week."

Benjen chuckled. "Well, I'm glad to hear it. Congratulations to both of you." He clasped Harry's shoulder with genuine affection before turning to Dany. "Welcome to the family, Fleur."

Jon, with a mischievous glint in his eye, spoke up. "Well, Uncle Benjen, you've arrived just in time. Tomorrow morning, you'll witness Harry giving Ser Jaime Lannister a lesson he won't forget."

Ned and Robb exchanged startled glances, while Dany stifled a laugh. Harry raised an eyebrow at Jon's bold proclamation.

Benjen's eyes sparkled with amusement. "Is that so, Jon? I look forward to it. It should be quite the spectacle."

Jon's grin widened. "Oh, it will be, Uncle. You won't want to miss it."

Ned sighed, rubbing his temple in resignation. "Harry, couldn't you delay your mischief for a single day?"

Harry held up his hands defensively. "It wasn't my doing, Ned. The 'Golden-haired cunt' made the challenge, not me."

Dany couldn't suppress a laugh, while Jon, Robb, and Benjen all burst into hearty laughter. Benjen's laughter echoed through the room, mixing with the general mirth of the others.

Ned's expression softened despite his exasperation. His weary eyes, accustomed to the burdens of leadership, showed a flicker of amusement. The room was alive with warmth and camaraderie, offering a rare respite from the encroaching shadows.

Benjen's laughter subsided, though a smile remained on his lips. "Well, it seems Winterfell will have some excitement after all. Who could have predicted that we'd see a duel between Harry and the 'Golden-haired cunt' on our doorstep?"

Ned sighed, a wry smile tugging at his lips as he surveyed the lively group. Despite his weariness, he found solace in the unity and humor of those he held dear. With a shake of his head and a chuckle, he resigned himself to the playful banter, grateful for these moments of light amidst their darkening world.

---

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