Fight with The Faith

King's Landing, The Crownlands

They were assembled at the docks with King Robert. Robert looked excited and restless. The ship was visible at a distance.

'Ned always had that effect on him.' Jon mused. Robert had not touched any drink or any whore today. He wanted to be completely sober when he met his friend. Cersei was noticeably absent. She never liked Eddard. Renly was absent as usual attending a tourney somewhere in the Reach. Grandmaester Pycelle was also not present due to his frail health. The rest of them, Stannis, Varys and Petyr were present.

Soon, the Northern ship came and docked. Immediately Robert sped forward with Ser Barristan Selmy shadowing behind him. A plank was lowered and out stepped Ned, followed by the hulking Lord of the Last Hearth, Greatjon Umber.

"Ned!" Robert exclaimed and hugged his friend. "You are back. So much time has passed. Where were you?"

"Guarding the Northern Realms for my nephew, Your Grace." He answered with a bow.

"I am pretty sure this was the same reply you gave when Robert asked the same question last time you met." Jon said interrupting them.

Ned shrugged. "It is the truth. And it is good to see you Jon." Ned hugged Jon.

Ned proceeded to greet the small council members present. Varys just bowed his head. Littlefinger had the same smirk on his face. Finally Ned went to Stannis.

"Prince Stannis. We meet again. How are you?" Ned asked politely.

"As good as I am Regent Stark." Stannis replied grinding his teeth. "Welcome to King's Landing."

'Same old Stannis. He will break before he bends.' Jon shook his head. Seeing Robert open his mouth again to engage Ned he interrupted them, "Robert we have time. Let us go to the Red Keep. We can talk on the way."

Robert shook his head sheepishly then started to lead the way inside. Soon the whole party fell behind. Ser Barristan followed Robert like a shadow. Greatjon did the same with Ned. As they were inside the city walls Jon asked Ned, "When do you think young Aryan will arrive?"

"Lord Manderly sent me a message when they reached Braavos. I am sure they must reach within the week." Ned told them.

"My birds tell me Lord Aryan had taken a quick journey to Qohor my Lords before they started their return journey." Varys chirped.

"Now, why did he go there?" Robert asked.

"He must have his reasons Robert. Perhaps we can ask him when he arrives. Then he will swear his loyalty to you and take his rightful place as Warden of the North." Ned said in a proud voice.

Soon they reached the Red Keep. They all went different ways with Robert ordering Ned to meet for dinner.

~

With a moan Cersie climaxed and fell on Jaime's chest. Both of them started to catch their breath after their pleasant lovemaking. Once she got her breath Cersie rolled down to the bed while Jaime put an arm across her. They stayed like that for some time.

"It seem I must be thankful to Ned Stark. He has taken Robert's attention and now I have got you all for myself after a long time." Jaime quipped.

"You are right in that. It is the reason I sent for you in the first place. With the Quiet Dog here Robert will be running behind him." Cersie said standing up in all her glory and going towards the table to pour some wine.

'Even after so many years, her beauty still amazes me.' Jaime thought. Cersie saw Jaime's gaze and winked at him. Shaking his head he asked, "You are quite harsh on him Cersei. I thought you started to like the Starks after they gifted you that glass bust of yours. You did not leave its side for quite a few days."

Cersie laughed harshly. "Make no mistake Jaime, just because those wolves gave us some wonderful gifts as they should as loyal subjects does not mean that I like them. We are lions and we stay above the others. "

"And what about what father asked you?" Jaime asked.

"What do you mean?" Cersei asked innocently.

"Don't play games with me. You know what I mean. To make Robert establish a royal alliance with the Starks and that means marrying Myrcella to Aryan Stark." Jaime pressed on.

Suddenly Cersei's face flushed and her eyes gained a fury. "No children of mine will go to those barren lands ruled by savages. I already have to deal with Robert trying to have sweet Joffery or Tommen being fostered by the Starks. Now father too. I will not have it."

Jaime asked confused, "Why Cersei? What is wrong with that? Getting an alliance with the now powerful Northern Realms through marriage or fostering will be beneficial for us. Fostering has produced great men. Look at Father or Robert or even Ned Stark for that matter. Even Aryan Stark can be said to be fostered in some way by his uncle. Joffery and Tommen would be benefitted from it. Especially considering some of the things I am hearing about Joffrey these days."

"Lies and lies, all of them. My sweet Joffrey is going to be a great king. Whatever the sheep say will not stop him from his destiny. And you will stand by his side protecting him my sweet brother." She said while giving him a kiss and then climbed on to his lap pushing his cock into her love tunnel. And just like that Jaime decided to forgo the matter, more interested in pleasing his sister. Cersei's method to make Jaime do her bidding never failed.

"One more thing my sweet brother." Cersie asked suddenly stopping herself.

Panting with lust, Jaime gasped. "Anything for you."

"Certain events may happen in the coming days. Whatever it may be, you will stay close to me dear brother and will not interfere." She ordered.

'The things I do for love.' He thought and said, "I will always remain by your side."

Cersei smiled and in that moment she looked very beautiful. "I know I can always count on you Jaime." And they resumed their activities.

At the same time in the Kings chambers two friends along with their mentor were gathered enjoying themselves. While Ned and Jon Arryn were simply sipping their wine Robert had already gobbled several glasses of it and now was quite drunk.

"I crave for moments like these to happen." Robert mumbled.

"It seems that life after war has not been kind on you Robert." Ned said.

Thumping his glass on to the table Robert roared. "You are right Ned. I hate my fucking life. I am a warrior. But I am wasting myself sitting on a damned ugly chair as a King. I never wanted to be a King."

"The realm needed a strong King after the defeat of the Targaryens. You are that person. You have brought peace and prosperity to the realm Robert, be proud of yourself." Jon added from his place.

"Fuck that. Fuck prosperity. Fuck the realm. Even if someone else had been King the realm could have found peace. Now I am here in this damned city which stinks of shit of millions. I am surrounded by lickspittles and traitors. I envy you Ned. Look at you. You have a more happy life in the North surrounded by a loving family." Robert said looking forlorn.

"Everyone loves their family. I am sure your family also loves you very much." Ned said trying to placate him.

Robert gave out a bitter laugh. "You don't know anything Ned. There is no love between my family. And I accept I have a small part in that. Look at Cersei. I can proudly say that she is the most beautiful woman in the realm but she hates me. She guards her cunt so closely that sometimes I wonder how she gave me three children. And she keeps them away from me. And about my brothers Stannis and Renly, the less said the better. I know about Stannis. He hates me but he is honest. He will never go against me. And Renly, my favorite little brother. But sometimes I can see the disgust in his eyes towards me."

Ned suddenly felt bad about Robert and looked towards Jon. His mentor had aged much trying to manage the realm for Robert. He then turned to Robert and said, "There is still time. You could talk to them and redeem yourself in their eyes. They will forgive you."

"You are really naive Ned. That time has passed. Now I have to manage with what I have left. I used to feel alive in a battle. But we do not have battles or fights. Along with a shitty life here I have resorted to wine and whores. They keep me sane and alive to an extent or I would have gone mad long ago. Did you know that Cersei had hinted me several times to abdicate the throne and give it to Joffrey? So that the Old Lion Tywin can have his clutches on the realm as the Hand of the new King. I will not allow them that satisfaction. I will remain the King at least to spite those golden haired shits.

Now let us leave my sorry state. What about you and your brood?" Robert asked.

Neds mood brightened at that. He was proud of his family. He leaned back on his chair and then started to talk about his and Benjen's family.

"I envy your life. I am wasting my life here while you are content. But I am still happy for you my friend." Robert said. "And what about the bastard who you named after Jon?"

"Jon Snow lives with Aryan in Winterfell based on Aryan's suggestion. He is happy there at the same time his absence at the Moat keeps Cat happy too. Currently he is squiring under Ser Brynden."

Jon raised his eyebrows at that. "How did you manage to get your bastard to squire under your wife's uncle? Surely your wife would not have been happy at that not including Lord Tully." Jon looked surprised and Robert also looked interested.

"Truthfully even I don't know the full details. Aryan somehow convinced him to take Jon as his squire. As you assume Cat was not pleased. She tried to convince Ser Brynden against the decision but it failed."

"Interesting." Jon mused. "I must also say you have aged well. You do not look like a person burdened by his duties. I had thought that you would be very busy as the Regent of the North…. I mean the Northern Realms." Jon Arryn added.

"Aryan has proven quite capable of managing the Northern Realms. So I have left him to do as he wants. Not once has he given me a reason to regret that decision. So that leaves me quite a lot of time. Even with managing Moat Cailin and Starkhaven in these days of peace I am quite content with my life." Ned said.

Jon Arryn leaned forward and asked, "Are you sure it was wise to give your nephew full freedom to do as he wished? He is quite young. Even older and experienced men need guidance to rule. Look at Robert."

Robert exclaimed at that while Ned smiled. "I know what you mean. But Aryan has proved himself efficient and capable. Even you know that. All the Northern Lords are behind him. He has changed the North from a barren wasteland to a powerful and prosperous Kingdom. He has also shown his prowess in battles that men are ready to follow him. What more?"

Jon was about say something but Robert bellowed. "Come on Jon. Don't be so pessimistic. The lad has quite proven himself very capable. With his gifts he has also managed to charm Cersei. At least she does not call you Northeners dogs which is an accomplishment."

"Of course Robert I will leave the matter." Jon said and then turning to Ned he asked. "Tell me again why Aryan went to Essos?"

"The boy has the Wolfblood like his father Brandon. He likes traveling. Since he would be busy after taking his title as the Warden of North he decided to see the world before that. I allowed him. He has taken Lord Wyman with him to establish some trade with the free cities." Ned said.

"Very wise of him. But I thought that the North is getting enough already through trade. What more does he want?" Jon asked sceptically.

"Aryan wants to bring more trade to the North to use the untapped resources of North. But most importantly he wants to bring food for the long winters. While we have enough food these days but it is the Winters that is the problem. If we have long Winters the stored food will deplete. Then we will have to bring food from the Southern Land of Essos. That is what Aryan is trying to do." Ned said. While he respected Jon Arryn, Ned was not foolish enough to divulge everything about his nephew's plans. He was sure Aryan had many plans which Ned was not privy to. But he trusted his nephew.

"The Reach is clamoring that you are not buying their food. They have sent repeated letters asking for the Iron Throne's interference in this matter." Jon told him.

"For several centuries we were dependent on them for our food. They bled us dry knowing we were dependent on them. They flourished while we suffered. Now that we are sustaining ourselves, how dare they accuse us?" Ned asked incredulously.

"It is politics Ned. To maintain peace in the realm concessions have to be made. Consider what I have said." Jon told him amicably.

Ned suddenly felt anger at that. "I didn't see any concessions from the Iron Throne which would have helped the North to help survive in Winter. Why should we consider now?"

"Enough Jon. Ned is right. Those fucking Reach Lords do not like the fact that they are suddenly losing their wealth. Next time any of the Reach Lord comes here send him to me. I will deal with them." Robert told Jon. Jon nodded at that resignedly.

Suddenly Ned asked, "That reminds me. We have sent repeated letters about the pirate attacks from the Three Sisters. Why have you not responded yet?"

Jon Arryn shifted in his seat suddenly uncomfortable with the subject. "Well Ned truthfully saying the Three Sisters are in not in our complete control. We have tried for many past years to bring them to heel but failed."

"That is very irresponsible of you Jon. How can you say that?" Ned asked aghast.

"I agree with Ned. Say the word and I will bring them to heal. Let them face my fury." Robert asked excited.

"The Lords of Eastern coast has been asking Aryan to do something about it. Aryan had temporarily assigned our Naval fleet to guard the sea while asking me to speak to you. But still the attack continues sometimes. If you do not do something soon then Aryan will deal with this problem personally. The results of which you will not like." Ned warned.

"Give me some time Ned. I will see to it." Jon said tiredly.

"Don't take it personally Jon. But sometimes the affairs of Kingdoms takes precedence." Ned told him to which Jon smiled.

They continued to talk for a few more hours.

~

It had been almost a week since they came here and Ned was already missing his home. Greatjon was even more restless. The man was growing more agitated here and had already caused a few fights. Surrounded by schemers and dishonest people he was at his wits end. He had met the small council. Varys and Littlefinger were friendly. Littlefinger was Cat's friend and they had brief chat for few a days ago. But Petyr's ever present smile unsettled him. On the other hand Varys seemed genuine in his words. Stannis was Stannis and was always showed rigid behavior. Like many were saying, Stannis would break before he bends. He was very strict and just but others hated him. He was the Master of Ships. Both Robert and Stannis did not see eye to eye. Perhaps Robert still could not forgive Stannis for his delay in dealing with both the Ironborn as well as the Targaryens several years ago. On the other hand the Master of Laws, Renly Baratheon, was absent from the city and its effect could be seen throughout King's Landing. He had met Cersei only a few times. Their meetings were curt but Ned could easily see the disdain in her eyes towards him.

Currently Ned was walking along with Greatjon and half a dozen Northern soldiers through the market looking around. He was cooped in the Red Keep for so long. So today he decided to go out.

"What a fucking shitty place. Wintertown and Starkhaven are heaven compared to this shithole." Greatjon grumbled.

"Well according to Aryan this city was developed without considering future expansion and higher population, not considering the sewage system. That is why this place smells so bad. We have learned from that and developed our cities to overcome these problems." Ned explained.

"I hope your nephew arrives soon. I am already tired of this place." Greatjon said as they walked.

As they walked Ned saw that here and there, many people dressed in rags with seven-pointed-star on their forehead were looking at him. Whenever he looked at them closely they suddenly seemed to walk away. Ned suddenly had a sense of foreboding.

"Be alert." He told his men trusting his guts, "Let us leave back to the Red Keep."

The group of Northerners started to briskly walk towards the Red Keep but fate was against them it seemed fate was against them. Ned was not much familiar with the streets of the capital city. And unfortunately for them they reached the Baelor's Sept suddenly they were surrounded by from all sides by the followers of faith. Ned's soldiers quickly surrounded him to protect their Lord.

"Who dares to attack us?" Greatjon roared swinging his sword.

"Put your weapon down Greatjon. We are already outnumbered. These are fanatics who do not care about their own lives. I didn't know that the Faith Militant was still active. Let us try to talk to them." Ned told Greatjon who reluctantly did as he was told.

Before he could say anything else he heard someone ordering, "Take the Faithless Northern Lords to the Sept."

The crowd surrounding them started to get excited and started to push them towards the Baleor's Sept. He heard the cries like 'False tree gods' and 'Burn the blasphemers'. The Northern soldiers were trying hard to keep the Militants from reaching their Lord.

Again they heard the same voice saying, "We only need the Tree worshiping Lords. Kill the others."

And then the fanatics turned violent and started to attack. His men resisted valiantly but succumbed. And then only the two remained. They were dragged inside the Sept. And soon they were deposited into a circular hall. The hall statues of the Father, the Mother, the Maiden, the Crone, the Warrior, the Smith and the Stranger, the seven important deities of the faith surrounding it. They were kept there for some time while several of his captors stood surrounding them.

After sometime, a person wearing white and flowing robes fitted with expensive jewelry came near them. With flesh rippling below the dress and puffed up cheeks and a rotund belly.

The men surrounding them bowed deeply and one of them reported, "Your Holiness, the blasphemers. How are we going to deal with them?"

"We will see about it later after I speak with them." The High Septon told his followers.

"I didn't know the Faith Militant was active again." Ned told the High Septon.

The man suddenly became angry but quickly composed himself. "We are not the Faith Militants. We are the defenders of the Faith."

One of their captors kicked him from behind. "Address his Holiness with respect."

Ned looked at the man who kicked him angrily while the High Septon calmed the man with a smile. Ned asked grimacing with pain, "Why did you kill my men and capture me?"

"You will be an example to the others. Already you do not follow the teachings of faith and worship those trees and pray to non-existent gods. Now you do not allow the faith of Seven in the North. And now your pagan religion is spreading across Westeros. UNACCEPTABLE." He roared near the end.

"Anyone can practice any religion in North as long as they coexist with each other. Yours did not. And most smallfolk follow the Old Gods of their own free will. We do not force them." Ned said.

"Regardless, we the Faith watched along as our people were prosecuted and pagan religion took roots under our nose doing nothing till now. No more. We are sworn to protect the faith and we will do so starting with you." The High Septon said with a crooked smile.

"And how do you plan to do that?" Ned asked.

"We will begin by you decrying your Old Gods and embracing the true gods the Seven here in front of the people." The High Septon said.

"And?" Ned prompted.

"You will propagate the Seven in your Northern Realms." The High Septon said.

"And if I refuse?" Ned asked challengingly.

"For your sake I hope you don't. You have a wife and children. Don't you want to see them?" The High Septon asked.

"Firstly, I am a Northener and will proudly follow the Old Gods to my death. Secondly, you know you will not get away with this, don't you?" Ned said.

"If you are thinking that His Grace Robert Baratheon is going to protect you, then you are wrong. He is also the defender of the Faith. And we have ways of keeping him away from this." The High Septon said smugly.

Ned kept the word 'We' in his mind. "Actually I was referring to my nephew."

"The so called Bloody Wolf. He is just a boy. He will find that this not a battle he can win easily." The High Septon said.

Turning to Greatjon, Ned said, "Now I think I know why Aryan likes only the Stranger among the Seven." Looking back at the High Septon who was frowning Ned said, "We have nothing more to talk about. Beware, High Septon, my nephew will come and he will bring winter with him."

~

He hurried towards the Red Keep as fast as he could. His plan had worked so flawlessly. Ned Stark and his bannerman was captured by the Faith. A situation that the King Robert cannot handle easily in his usual way, that is to smash with his hammer, unless he wanted to be labelled as the second coming of Maegor 'The Cruel' Targaryen. If he could play his cards right, perhaps Eddard Stark could die too, paving way for a conflict. Petyr had learned from his mistakes and that is why he was going to meet the King, to be the one who reported to him about the capture of his friend. And soon he reached the King's chambers. The Kingsguard Ser Barristan Selmy and Ser Jaime Lannister were standing vigil outside. He could hear shrieks and grunts coming from inside.

"Ser Barristan, I need to meet the King. It is a matter of utmost urgency." He told them.

With a smirk Jaime said, "As you can hear from the sounds, His Grace is busy." Ser Barristan gave Jaime a disapproving look.

"His Grace would be very angry if he did not hear this." He persisted. Seeing the uninterested expression of both the Kingsguard he continued, "It is a matter regarding Lord Eddard Stark and his current capture by the Faith."

Now that got their attention. Jaime raised his eyebrows while Barristan asked, "Explain."

"I think it would be better if I explain to His Grace and you hear me there. That way we can save time." Petyr said. He wanted to tell Robert before Varys told him.

Sighing Barristan knocked and opened the door and led them inside. Jaime stayed near the door no doubt to get a view of both inside and outside.

Seeing unexpected visitors Robert roared as one of the whores bounced on his cock, "Can a man not even fuck in peace? Barristan I told you that I didn't want to be disturbed."

"Forgive me Your Grace. The Master of Coin brought some grave news which I felt definitely needs you attention." Barristan said.

"What is it Baelish?" Robert said looking at his attempting to sit down while he kneaded the whore's breasts.

"Your Grace, Lord Eddard Stark and Greatjon Umber had been captured and their men were killed. The Faith has risen and taken them captive. They want them to renounce the Old Gods and follow the Seven as well as assurances to spread the Faith through the Northern Realms." Petyr said.

And just as expected Robert Baratheon stilled in his activities stunned by the news. Slowly his eyes turned red and he roared, "How dare they?"

He started to get dressed throwing down the whore to the side. "Kingslayer get the horses ready?" He ordered Jaime as he dressed. Jaime Lannister hurried away. Robert hefted his hammer from its stand as he started to walk outside. The fury in his face was very evident which resulted in whoever came on the way quickly hurried from the way. At the entrance of the Red Keep they were met by the rest of the Small Council along with the Queen.

"Robert we just got news that..." Jon Arryn said as they met.

"Ned and his men have been taken captive by the fucking Faith. I heard that. And I am going to deal with them." Robert said.

It was then their attention turned to Robert's hammer. Jon Arryn looked alarmed. "Robert why are you carrying your hammer?"

"To deal with those fuckers and bring back Ned." Robert said.

"The Faith is taking too much power into their hands. They must be shown the error of their ways." Stannis said gritting his teeth.

"I am glad you agree with me brother." Robert grunted nodding at Stannis.

"And how do you plan to do that?" Jon asked looking worried.

"My usual way. I am going to smash them." Robert yelled.

"Robert, you are the King. You need to restrain yourself. Besides this is not some enemy you can just kill. This is the Faith of the Seven." Jon advised.

"Yes Robert. You are the Defender of Faith. If you go against them you and your legacy, our children will be cursed by the seven. You can't just turn your back on the Faith." Cersei argued quite passionately.

"The King is also the Protector of the Realm. He has a duty to protect his people even from the Faith." Stannis said. This gained him a dirty look from Cersei and a nod from Robert.

"Robert..." Jon tried again.

Robert stilled and looked at Jon pointedly. "Can you hear yourself Jon? My best friend Ned, whom you too love very much, is at this time held captive and you are telling me to stay here and not do anything?"

"No Robert. I am not saying that. I will negotiate with them. I am sure we can have him back in no time." Jon said encouragingly.

"Then get out of my sight and tell those shits to release him your way. Or I will come and do it my way even if it earns me the name Robert 'The Cruel'." Robert Baratheon said angrily. Then he walked back inside saying, "Baelish, bring me wine and whores."

Jon Arryn then said, "I will go to talk with the High Priest. Come with me Lord Varys." Varys nodded.

"I will accompany you. The presence of Royalty will perhaps do some good." Cersei announced. Rest unsaid was that Jaime Lannister would also accompany them.

"If you would allow me to accompany you, I believe that I could be useful too." Littlefinger said with his usual smile.

Before Jon Arryn could say anything to that Cersei replied with a fake smile, "I believe Robert gave you an important task right now. It would be prudent fulfill it especially in his current state of mind."

There was brief flicker in Petyr's smile. Still he nodded and went away. The negotiators too proceeded to the Great Sept of Baelor.

~

Aryan was awakened from his blissful sleep by a horrible smell. Blearily wiping his eyes he concluded 'We must be nearing King's Landing.' He then proceeded to his morning rituals and wearing a fresh dress he went above the deck. Lord Manderly and Marwyn were already there. Wyman Manderly seemed to have lost half his weight following Marwyn's advice as well as due to the tiring journey. But he seemed to be quite pleased with the results.

"King's Landing is very unique. Unlike other cities it is the smell of shit that welcomes visitors." Aryan announced his presence. Everyone on the deck bowed.

"I am quite happy to be back in Westeros. I have missed home." Wyman said.

"You and everyone else too, Lord Manderly. But I don't consider anything south of the Neck as home." Aryan agreed. "Once I swear fealty to King Robert we will go back home."

"How do you feel about formally taking over your position as the Warden of North?" Marwyn asked.

"It will give me more freedom. Like making a remake of the 'Rape of the Three Sisters' that uncle Ned is refusing for his misguided friendship with the Andal fool that is our Hand of the King." Aryan replied.

They continued to talk as they came near the docks. Aryan noticed the presence of many troops along the docks.

"Is that normal?" He asked Marwyn.

"We are at the capital. It is normal to have guards around. But I agree, not this much." Marwyn replied.

As soon as the ship anchored Aryan descended. He felt something was wrong. They were approached a group of guards led by a man tall man with blue eyes and balding black hair.

"That is Prince Stannis." Marwyn whispered.

"Lord Stark. Welcome to King's Landing." Stannis said as he arrived.

Aryan nodded and replied, "Prince Stannis, it is an honor. I am pleased to meet you."

"I wish we could have met under better circumstances." Stannis said.

"I see an usual number of troops here. Is there something wrong? And where is my uncle. I thought he would be here to greet me." Aryan said.

"Well that is the problem. I won't waste your time. Lord Eddard Stark was taken yesterday as a captive by the Faith." Stannis said gravely.

"What? The Faith took him and is holding him? Why?" Aryan asked.

"It is not clear. But we believe it is because of a sudden increase of the popularity of the Old Gods south of the Neck as well as a decrease of the Faith in the Northern Realms." Stannis said.

Aryan tried to process the information. 'The Faith could not have made this decision on their own. The High Septon is a coward from what I know. Somebody played his move.'

Lord Manderly asked the question that he had in mind, "And the crown did nothing to rescue Lord Stark?"

"Unfortunately I am not the King. Robert was ready to smash them apart. But the Hand and the Queen disagree. As we speak, they are negotiating with the Faith to release Lord Eddard." Stannis said.

"Do you believe they will succeed?" Aryan asked.

"Religious fanatics are difficult to deal with." Stannis said grinding his teeth.

"I agree." Aryan said.

He then ordered all his men to wear armor and weapons. Aryan also wore his armor and strapped Ice to his back. Keeping fifty men in charge of Lord Manderly to guard the ship in case of emergency. They then proceeded to go with Stannis.

The large party quickly went inside. Stannis led them towards the Great Sept.

"I thought we would be going towards the Red Keep to meet the King." Aryan asked Stannis as saw their route.

"It was His Grace who asked me to take you to the Great Sept. He will be waiting there." Stannis said without turning back.

Aryan felt a sudden respect to Robert. For all his faults he was a man of action and valued his friends. As they neared the Sept, Aryan saw a large group of men on the steps holding crude weapons. They had the seven pointed star carved on their foreheads. A large crowd was assembled nearby to watch the proceedings. In the courtyard was King Robert sitting in a chair with Ser Barristan and another Kingsguard behind him.

Stannis approached Robert. "Robert, Lord Stark is here."

Robert got up from his seat and immediately hugged Aryan. He said, "I am truly sorry Aryan. I could not do anything more for Ned. It seems my hands are tied being the Defender of Faith."

"I understand Your Grace. Even I agree that this must have been a surprise. The Faith's sudden move has indeed surprised all of us." Aryan told them. He did not share his suspicion with them.

"I am waiting for Jon and Cersei to come back. Let us hope they succeed." Robert said.

"The Faith should not take law into their hands. If the Master of Laws had been competent this situation could have been avoided." Stannis added gritting his teeth.

"Not now Stannis." Robert said.

"Prince Renly is not here?" Aryan asked.

"He is somewhere in the Reach playing with his sword." Stannis said.

"Interesting." Aryan replied as he followed his gaze to the negotiators coming back.

As soon as Jon Arryn and Cersei followed by Varys and Jaime arrived, Robert immediately asked them, "Where is Ned?"

"Calm down Robert. There had been some complications. But we will get back him soon." Jon tried to assure them.

Aryan's eyes narrowed at that. "You do not seem quite sure Lord Hand. What is their demands?"

"They want the Faith of Seven to propagated through Northern Realms as well as to abandon the Old Gods. Eddard Stark must forsake the Old Gods and embrace the Seven publicly here in King's Landing." Jaime said.

Aryan felt his temper rising. He closed his eyes to calm down. Then he asked, "Is Uncle Ned alright?"

"He is unharmed. Though I must say he had some bruises." Jaime said.

"Then I am going to deal with those cunts." Robert bellowed.

Immediately Jon blocked his path. "Robert calm down. We will meet with them again tomorrow. I am sure Ned will be alright. You are the Defender of Faith. If you go against the Faith it will create a bad precedent."

"As much as I like to teach the High Priest his place I would have to agree with Lord Jon Arryn. You cannot deal with them your way Robert. It will create problems down the line. When sweet Joffrey ascends the throne he will have a hard time." Cersei said.

They continued at argue back and forth for some time. Jon Arryn noticed Aryan standing in the sidelines busy in thought. "Lord Stark I am sure you would be tired from your journey. You can rest inside."

Aryan ignored that and asked back, "So you will not do anything to free my uncle?"

"You must understand Lord Stark, this is politics. We must reach for a peaceful solution. Till then, we cannot do anything." Varys tittered.

"I did not ask your opinion, eunuch." Aryan told Varys. He then asked Jon again,"So you will not do anything from your side to save my uncle?"

"I am sorry Aryan. This situation will take some time to be resolved. So till then, we cannot do anything." Jon said.

"No. You choose not to do anything." Aryan said. "But not me."

Aryan then turned to Robert and knelt before him to take his fealty. "Your Grace, I Aryan Stark here swear my fealty to His Grace Robert Baratheon, First of his name, Protector of the Realm, King of the Andals, the Rhoynar and the First Men. I pledge my undying loyalty to you till your last breath."

The vow was given in front of whole people of King's Landing. Cersei said, "I think you did not say the oath correctly Lord Stark. You must say you will serve Robert and his descendants in perpetuity."

Robert ignored her and lifted Aryan by his shoulders. "I accept you fealty. I hereby appoint you formally as Aryan Stark, Lord of Winterfell , Lord of the Northern Realms and Warden of North."

Cersei scowled behind them. Aryan ignored her and told Robert. "Your Grace I would like to take care of this problem and save my uncle."

"I would advise against that. The Faith must be dealt with in a more peaceful manner. Or it will create problems for the King." Varys added.

"I am not talking to you eunuch. Do not interrupt again." Aryan warned him. Since the moment he met Varys, Aryan's instincts made him alert. Varys was very dangerous.

"Your Grace while your hands are tied since you are the Defender of Faith, mine are not. We Northerners do not follow this religion. Please allow me to rescue my Uncle. I am ready to take all the blame. This way you will not have much trouble." Aryan told Robert. He also used leglimency on Robert to make sure the King did not have any hesitation.

"Now, look here Lord Stark there is no need for that. Robert, don't do anything stupid." Jon Arryn said looking worried.

"Go rescue Ned, Aryan. And leave this place for now." Robert said.

"Thank you, Your Grace. I hope we meet again under better circumstances." Aryan told Robert.

Robert Baratheon started to walk back into the Red Keep with Jon Arryn running behind his back to convince him. Cersei too scowled at Aryan and proceeded to follow Robert. Jaime nodded at him and accompanied his sister. Stannis instead stayed behind and made the soldiers to control the crowd.

The fully armored Northern soldiers assembled behind Aryan. Aryan drew Ice from its sheath. All the soldiers behind his did the same. Suddenly the Faith Militants did not seem sure of themselves and started to shuffle on their feet.

"Did you forget who I am? I will give you one chance. Step aside. Go to your home. Let me take my uncle and go back. There is no need to fight. Else I will not be responsible for your missing limbs, missing head or missing soul."

The assembled followers started to look at each other. But a voice from above, near the doors shouted, "Followers of Faith, the warrior will give you strength. Fight with all you strength. Show these heathens the error of their ways and send them to the Stranger."

This encouraged them a bit and they started to cheer.

"So be it. Slaughter them all. Leave none alive." Aryan said. He then went into his men's lockstep formation with shields and spears and started to proceed forward. The Northern soldier movement was precise and calculated that they tore through the Faith easily. Each and everyone was murdered brutally. The steps leading to the Sept were soaked in blood as the Northern soldiers secured it. Aryan calmly went up and inside the doors. He saw a few of Septas huddled in a corner and whimpered when his gaze fell on them. Aryan decided to spare them. 'After all someone must be left alive to tell the tale.' He thought.

By the time he went inside his men had freed Ned and Greatjon. He went near them. "Uncle, Lord Umber, I am sorry this happened."

Ned hugged his nephew and replied, "Me too.I did not expect that your swearing ceremony will lead to this. I wanted to surprise you."

"Well you did certainly surprise me. But not the way you wanted." Aryan told him jokingly. Then he looked to his men and said, "Take them both to the ship. I will be back soon."

"Words cannot describe how happy I am to see you Lord Stark. I must truthfully say, for a moment I was afraid I would be gone." Greatjon said coming near them.

"I am too glad to see you too Greatjon. Lord Manderly will be at the ship. Go with my men. I will join you soon." Aryan told him.

He watched as both Ned and Greatjon went away. By then his men had dragged in a kicking and wailing High Septon to him. "My Lord, We caught him trying to escape through the doors."

"Curse you savage. The Seven will curse you. May you rot and burn in the seven hells." The High Septon cursed him.

Aryan started to access his mind while he taunted the High Septon. The High Septon was very corrupt who had so many riches gathered inside. He was also indulging in sex whenever he got time. He preferred young boys the most. Since young children were abundant in King's Landing he could easily get them and use them. But what was more interesting was that the High Septon was a pawn. It was Petyr Baelsih who convinced him to capture Eddard.

Getting the information he required he told him, "Look at you. A High Septon who must be example to his people but you are looting their money in the name of religion and fucking young boys. And you attacked my uncle and his men. The last time someone touched a Stark his fate was very painful. Such will be yours too."

The High Septon was a coward. He knew what the Bloody Wolf was talking about. The Fate of Rodrick Greyjoy. "I beg you to spare my life. I will take the black. I will leave Westeros."

He ignored the High Septon's ramblings and told his men. "Rip out his tongue. Cut off his limbs. Crush his manhood. Gouge out his eyes. But make sure he lives." And he went outside. His men had brought all the riches and money from inside the Sept of Baelor. Aryan gathered all the Septas and told them to distribute the money. He also cast a confundus charm on all of them so that they will spread how corrupt the High Septon was.

He went outside and in front of all the assembled people. "People of King's Landing. This is not the way I wanted to meet you all when I came here. But the circumstances forced my hand. My uncle was taken captive and I had to rescue him. I also found that the High Septon was a corrupt person who not only stole you hard earned money in the name of God but was also a pedophile."

"Lies." He heard a few shouts in the crowd. But thankfully it was isolated voices.

"Now I do not have time to convince you. So I will be giving you all the money in the Sept." He then pointed to the Septas who were coming down with many boxes. "All those boxes contain money which we found hidden inside the Sept. The Septas will distribute the stolen money to you."

He then proceeded to walk towards the ship with his men following him. Thankfully it seemed that his words had an effect on the crowd. They did not become violent.

It had been a few days after they left King's Landing. After traveling through the Blackwater Bay they had just passed Dragonstone. Currently the Northern Lords were sitting inside Aryan's office in the ship.

"While Robert is the same, Jon has changed certainly." Ned said nursing a mug of ale.

"I never trusted him one bit." Aryan told him.

"The city has not changed. It smells like shit and is also full of shit." Greatjon mumbled. Everyone laughed.

"Let us leave that topic. How was your journey ?" Ned asked.

"It had been tiresome but very productive." Aryan said. He then started to give them a brief recounting of his journey.

Aryan showed him the reforged Ice. "How is this Uncle?"

Taking the sword into his hands Ned examined the weapon for sometime and passed it to the others. "It is beautiful nephew but still sharp. But where did you get it done?"

"While waiting for Lord Manderly I decided to visit Qarth." He then told them an altered version of the story. "Now I also got our own blacksmith who knows how to forge Valyrian steel."

"Other than this trade and money matters did you meet any girls there? I heard that most of the women there have Valyrian features. Even whores look more beautiful than our Queen." Greatjon asked.

"I believe I heard Grandmaester talking about a Lady Gabriella Rogare." Wyman butted in with a smile.

Aryan decided to end the topic for now. It was not time to bring in Gabi now. "Let us leave that topic for now. Let us drink some more. Cheers." And gulped down some more ale. They continued to talk for sometime after which the others left leaving Ned alone with Aryan.

As the door closed behind Ser Rodrick Cassel, Aryan told Ned, "You know Uncle it seems King's Landing is very dangerous for us Starks. First grandfather then my father and now to an extent you too, suffered here."

"I understand. Even if I hate to accept that it is the truth." Ned agreed.

"At the same time we cannot just avoid this by never coming to King's Landing. Something tells me that we will have to come to this shitty city again." Aryan said in a grave tone. "And we must make sure that we are not caught unaware."

"What do you suggest?" Ned asked curiously.

"Like it or not even though we are wolves, we are sheep here far from safety of our home among treacherous wolves. We must make sure that we come at top next time. So we must have enough resources in King's Landing right beneath everyone's noses. I will come up with something soon." Aryan said.

"This place is full of spies. Not only Varys but several other people also have spies here. Petyr Baelish showed me some of them. So whatever must be done will have to be done skillfully." Ned said.

'That name again. I must really know more about him. But there is no need to tell Uncle about Petyr's involvement in this incident. At least not yet.' Aryan decided. "Petyr Baelish, the Master of Coin? You know him?"

"Well. Petyr was once a ward with Lord Tully and was friends with your Aunt Catelyn and her sister Lisa. When my father engaged Brandon to Catelyn, mind you Brandon never told us about his marriage with your mother Ashara, Petyr had challenged Brandon for Cat's hand. Your father defeated him soundly." Ned explained.

'A potential vengeful enemy. So Petyr Baelish has a reason to hate Starks.' Aryan concluded. He wanted to talk about a few of his plans to his uncle but there was a knock on the door and a soldier came in. "My Lord, the captain requests your presence at the deck."

"Why?" Ned asked getting up.

"A ship bearing a silver seahorse on sea green sails is asking to hail." the soldier replied.

" A Velaryon ship. Let us see." Ned said as he went out. Aryan followed him to the decks.

It was evening as the sun was setting. The orange skies were devoid of clouds. The aforementioned ship came near them soon and a plank was laid between the two. Five people came abroad of which one wore the dress of a Septa. Her face was not visible.

The person leading them came forward and introduced himself. "Lord Stark. I am Monford Velaryon, Lord of Driftmark. It is an honor to meet you finally."

"Of course Lord Velaryon." Aryan said.

"Why did you want to meet us here? You could have sent a letter and perhaps we could have come to Driftmark to visit you." Aryan said.

"The matter I want to discuss with you is very sensitive and dangerous. Some would say it is treachery too." Monterys said looking worried.

Both the uncle and nephew looked at each other. "Let us go to my solar." Aryan said as he nodded to his Uncle.

Lord Velaryon went inside and the Septa too followed him. Aryan raised at an eyebrow at that while Ned frowned. Soon they were in his solar.

As soon as the door closed Aryan asked, "So what is this matter you wanted to discuss with us?"

"It is not him who wanted to talk to you Lord Stark. It was my idea." The Septa who came with Lord Velaryon spoke for the first time. She lowered her cowl revealing her face for the first time. She appeared almost fifty years old but still managed to look regal. Her purple eyes looked tired and her silver hair were graying here and there.

Aryan recognized her from Bloodraven's memories so he wisely kept his mouth shut. But his uncle gasped in surprise, "Queen Rhaella..."