Chapter 93: Three-in-One chapter

In Westeros, King Robert had recently sent letters to the North, the West, the Riverlands, and Dorne, seeking opinions on launching a campaign against the Stepstones.

His staunch allies — Renly, Mace Tyrell, and Jon Arryn — had also issued orders to their territories to begin gathering troops and supplies.

Today, no Small Council meeting was convened. Instead, King Robert summoned only the Master of Laws and acting Archmage, Renly Baratheon, to the Red Keep.

This was a private gathering between brothers. Robert dispensed with formalities, telling Renly to sit wherever he liked while he poured himself a drink.

Renly, at ease, scanned Robert's wine rack, taking his time to choose.

Robert, eyeing his younger brother, now fully grown and sporting a beard, remarked, "Time flies. When we raised our banners, you were just a boy, and now you're a man."

"Indeed, it's been over a decade. Ah, this one's good!" Renly finally selected a fine bottle, grabbing two golden goblets, pouring the wine, and setting one before Robert before seating himself casually.

Robert took a sniff of the wine before downing it in one gulp. "You've got an eye for quality! This wine's among the finest in Essos, though the bottle itself is plain. You've earned yourself a treat today."

Renly laughed. "What do you mean, I've got an eye? This wine came from a Storm's End shipment. I even opened a bottle myself. Speaking of which, have you decided on your queen yet?"

"Hahaha, you nosy brat. It'll be the second daughter of Mathis Rowan," Robert replied.

Renly looked puzzled. "Why her in the end?"

Robert sighed. "I met Mathis Rowan's eldest daughter last year and wasn't fond of her, so I declined. But that old fox has two other daughters! The second just came of age, and I saw her at a feast."

Renly asked, "What do the other nobles think?"

"My queen must be wed within the next few months," Robert said. "The great houses have no suitable matches right now. Without the complications of marrying into a major house, the other nobles won't object. The main purpose is to have her bear my child before the war."

Robert paused before continuing, "Mathis Rowan is a noble lord of the Reach, capable enough. He's my old comrade, and his wife is from House Redwyne, a powerful Reach house, so the lineage is acceptable."

He hesitated before adding, "Honestly, the Frey girls aren't bad either, but their house's reputation is terrible. I had to give up on that idea."

Renly laughed. "Well, congratulations, brother. When will it be officially announced? The nobles of the Stormlands write to me daily about it."

"Soon. I'll mention it at the next Small Council meeting. If there are no objections, I'll announce it at court. What about you? Have you finalized things with the Tyrells?"

"After Margaery Tyrell's coming-of-age ceremony next year, we'll wed," Renly said reluctantly. He loved her brother, Loras, but had no choice but to take a wife.

The Tyrells had initially hoped to marry Margaery to Robert, but with war looming and Robert needing a wife before the campaign, that was no longer possible. Since she couldn't be queen, Renly was the next best choice.

"You didn't call me here just to talk about marriages, did you?" Renly asked, refilling their goblets.

"I've received news about our brother again. The 'Red Demon of Braavos!'" Robert's smile was peculiar as he handed Renly an opened letter.

Renly read Wright's letter, which confirmed the death of Viserys Targaryen. "I've heard the rumors. While the letter only covers a fraction of it, I believe Wright has the power to destroy half a city if he so desires."

Robert chuckled. "Hahaha, I believe it too. Braavos means nothing to us. To kill Viserys Targaryen and destroy a town — this brother of ours is quite something."

Renly added, "I think Wright did it on purpose. By making Viserys's death widely known, we no longer have to worry about a Targaryen restoration. Even the troublemakers in the Seven Kingdoms will settle down. As for the girl who survived, I suppose Wright couldn't bring himself to kill her."

Robert disagreed. "Wright has never been soft on enemies. He must have his reasons. Let's see if he sends any more letters."

Renly sipped his wine. "I'll be joining the campaign against the Stepstones."

"How did you come around? Not busy with your business and magic school anymore?" Robert grinned at Renly.

Renly's tone was resolute. "My brother's made such a grand move. While I might not match his talents, I'm far stronger than most. I need to be on the battlefield. Even the apprentices from the magic school will join the war."

Robert laughed heartily. "Good. I support your decision. I've slimmed down quite a bit recently and can wield my warhammer again. I'll be there as well. When Wright comes from the east, all four of us brothers can fight together again!"

Though there was tension between Stannis and Robert, Stannis had always supported his brother on major matters.

---

Winterfell, the North

Eddard Stark, having received Robert's letter, summoned his council for a meeting.

Jorah Mormont was among them, as he was in Winterfell for business with Eddard, trading spices.

Spices from Dorne were processed and bottled at Storm's End, then shipped through the Narrow Sea to the North, where they were highly sought after. Jorah had first tasted them at a feast in Winterfell and took on the business of selling them to the West. Eddard didn't mind, as long as there was a buyer.

The "Great Bear" would pick up goods from Winterfell, sell them along the western coast, and then head south. Gradually, the spices gained popularity in the Westerlands and the Reach, regions that had long held animosity toward Dorne. Since the spices had been processed and bore no resemblance to their origins, they quickly became a sensation. People praised them as "Northern goods."

When Eddard called the meeting, Jorah attended as the Lord of Bear Island. Most Northern lords had arrived by then, except for a few from remote regions.

Maester Luwin passed Robert's letter around for everyone to read as the servants poured drinks.

Eddard began, "What are your thoughts on the campaign against the Stepstones?"

Wyman Manderly, Lord of White Harbor, was the first to speak. "I support it. My fleet isn't large, but pirates have plundered my ships near the Stepstones. The southern fleets have suffered even more. If we don't act now, these pirates will become wealthier than us!"

His words garnered the support of most lords involved in maritime trade.

However, Glover of Deepwood Motte had a different perspective. "These losses are minor. There have always been pirates. Such losses should fall within your means to bear. The King rallying the Seven Kingdoms for this seems an overreaction."

Wyman retorted, "That was before! My fleet is small compared to Storm's End's, but it's twice the size it was before! Your Deepwood Motte is nestled in the woods; of course, you don't care about our struggles!"

Northerners were known for their tempers, and heated arguments were common, though rarely damaging to relations. Many noble households operated similarly.

Catelyn Tully intervened. "Maester Luwin, please share your insights."

Luwin rose from his seat, holding a sheet of paper covered in notes. "I've compiled data on trade and resource flows across the North. Over the past decade, our trade volume has nearly tripled. Allow me to show you."

As the lords passed the document among themselves, Eddard leaned toward Catelyn and Luwin, whispering briefly.

Once the lords finished reading, Eddard spoke again. "Trade between the North and the South has increased significantly. If the southern lords are impoverished, who will buy our furs? Who will purchase our meat? Without this income, several noble houses in the North would go bankrupt trying to afford southern iron. What's your opinion, Lord Roose Bolton?"

Roose Bolton, ever composed and soft-spoken despite his reputation, replied calmly, "I can't speak for other lords, but Dreadfort sustains itself entirely from selling smoked beef jerky, which covered all our expenses last year. Add to that the leather goods made from hides — all sold to the South. If their pockets are emptied by pirate raids, I certainly can't eat all this beef myself."

Rickard Karstark, Lord of Karhold and a cadet branch of the Starks, clad in a wolf-fur coat, stepped into the center of the hall.

"I wholeheartedly support this campaign! But has anyone noticed? Robert's mobilized the Seven Kingdoms but only intends for us to garrison the Reach and the Crownlands to maintain order. On the battlefield, we all know the rules: You gain what you defeated. what do we gain, even in victory, from this kind of war?" Turning to Eddard, he said, "Lord Stark, if this is the kind of war we're joining, I might as well send a squire on horseback carrying my banner."

"Hahaha!"

"I'll send a banner, too."

The hall erupted into laughter. Fighting for spoils made sense; maintaining order would only mean spending money and effort for others to take the leftovers.

Catelyn Tully glanced at Eddard, who nodded. She stood, holding a rolled-up letter. "I've received a letter from my father, Lord Hoster Tully." She unfurled it.

"The Riverlands have decided to support King Robert's proposal and have already begun preparing troops and supplies."

"What? The Riverlands are already mobilizing?"

The lords broke into murmurs of discussion.

Eddard stood, commanding the room's attention. "Everyone knows the Stepstones comprise dozens of islands, many large enough to sustain castles and agriculture, and countless smaller ones. Once incorporated into the realm, trade with Essos will flourish, and our people will prosper."

With leadership and the prospect of wealth established, the lords began to voice their support. After all, Northerners were not skilled at naval warfare; they could profit without fighting.

Two lords stepped forward, bowing to Eddard.

"On behalf of House Bolton, I support this campaign."

"On behalf of House Karstark, I do as well."

Other lords quickly followed suit, voicing their support.

Eddard added, "I understand the North's limitations in naval combat, but I'll propose to the King that we deploy a fleet and landing forces."

By this point, there were no dissenting voices; all the lords had declared their backing. Roose Bolton and Rickard Karstark exchanged subtle smiles with Eddard, who nodded in return.

Winterfell's steward, Vayon Poole, rose and rang a small bell. "Lords, please take a rest. A banquet will be held here shortly."

"Good!" "Hahaha!" "Tonight, we'll drink till we drop!" The lords roared with laughter.

Jorah Mormont, though experienced, still seemed young and inexperienced among the elder lords. He remained silent throughout but ultimately supported the campaign. He contemplated Bear Island's growing fleet and whether they could directly participate in combat at the Stepstones rather than merely maintaining order. He decided to discuss the matter with Lord Stark during the banquet.

Eddard and Catelyn retreated to a small hall to rest.

"Convincing them was exhausting!" Eddard sighed.

Catelyn approached and began massaging his shoulders.

"You managed it because the plan didn't directly harm their interests. Even if you had issued a forced conscription as Warden of the North, they would have only put in half-hearted efforts. This is the best outcome we could hope for."

Eddard replied, "It's a good thing I took your advice and secured Roose Bolton and Rickard Karstark's support beforehand."

Catelyn nodded. "This is a war beyond the North's borders, far from our lands. The Tullys, like us, are not the primary force in this campaign."

A knock came at the door.

"Who is it?" Catelyn called.

"Asha and Theon Greyjoy seek an audience with Lord Stark."

"Come in," Catelyn replied, adjusting her posture to sit formally. She was well aware of the siblings' situation. After Wright returned to the North and her son left for King's Landing, the Greyjoy siblings had begun rigorous training. Subtly probing Eddard, she had eventually uncovered the truth.

Asha entered first, now slim and composed, followed by Theon, who had transformed from a lanky youth into a muscular and spirited man.

"Lord Stark. Lady Catelyn." The siblings greeted them formally.

Eddard retrieved a letter sealed with a stag insignia, already broken. "This is a letter from the King. Read it first."

The two quickly read through it. Asha then moved to the candle stand and burned the letter without hesitation.

Eddard spoke, "Wright Baratheon has already killed Viserys Targaryen. This news will soon spread. Robert's orders for you are clear: infiltrate Daenerys Targaryen's circle. You'll participate in the Stepstones campaign, after which you'll feign defection."

"Lord Eddard, we are ready!" Theon was full of excitement. The year of training had been grueling, though voluntary, and he was no longer eager to endure such hardships.

"I've taught you how to live, trained you, but once you leave Winterfell, I won't be able to look after you anymore," Eddard said with a touch of sadness.

"Lord Eddard, although we were born in Pyke, Winterfell will always be our second home," Asha replied.

"Lord Eddard, we will never forget your teachings," Theon responded firmly.

Eddard nodded. "I'm not sure about the exact plans, but you'll join the Northern fleet heading to the Stepstones, where you'll meet up with the main force. Once you arrive, find Renly Baratheon — mention your names, and his guards will take you to him. He should be easy to recognize, as he looks like Wright."

The siblings nodded in agreement.

Eddard thought for a moment. "But who should accompany you to the Stepstones?"

There was another knock at the door.

"Who is it?" Catelyn Tully asked.

"I am Sir Jorah Mormont of Bear Island, here to see Lord Eddard Stark."

The four exchanged glances — this was a fortunate turn of events.

---

Casterly Rock, Westerlands.

Jaime Lannister was no longer a member of the Kingsguard, but he still insisted on wearing his Westerlands armor. As he put it, it was a habit he could not shake.

However, as the heir of the Westerlands, Jaime typically resided at Casterly Rock, though he had come to the city for an urgent summons from his father. On the outskirts of the castle, he met his younger brother, Tyrion.

"Aha, my dear brother, how are you?" Jaime greeted, dismounting and tossing the reins to a guard before giving his brother a hug.

Tyrion Lannister grinned. "I came to meet you. You know, there are rumors swirling around. They say you have your eye on Ser Melwyn Sarsfield's wife, and that the two of you share a wife."

Jaime chuckled as he walked with Tyrion into the castle. "You and I both know that's just a rumor."

Tyrion Lannister: "But rumors will ruin your reputation. You're the heir to the Westerlands now, not some knight with fifty thousand golden dragons!"

Jaime's expression stiffened. "Should I move to a different place every month then?"

Tyrion looked at the squire following Jaime, then pointed at him and glanced at Jaime. "You could take him on a trip somewhere else, or claim you're going on a bandit-hunting mission with him. Anything works."

The squire, not wearing armor or a helmet, had duties similar to that of an apprentice — taking care of the knight's horse, armor, and weapons, as well as attending to the knight's personal needs. Many noble children chose well-known knights as their squires.

Although the squire wore the typical attire of his rank, the fabric was the finest, and his shoulders and chest bore the green arrowhead emblem of House Sarsfield, indicating his noble status. However, his golden hair was strikingly different from the brown hair of the Sarsfield family.

Jaime: "I don't care about all that. What are you still concerned about? Forget it. Why did father call me back so urgently? Spill the details."

Tyrion: "I just finished my duties as a menial servant, and now I've been promoted to the Chief Janitor of Lannisport. What do you think I could know?"

Jaime looked puzzled. "There was no such position before, Chief Janitor, sounds pretty good."

Tyrion: "That's because I'm the only janitor in all of Lannisport now!" He said with a frown. "Father fired all the other janitors and left me to clean up the entire port. Do you think this position is great?"

Jaime chuckled. "But you look fine, you must be doing well!"

Tyrion: "What else can I do? I collect the rotten fish and shrimp from the port and sell them to the poor. They help me clean, and that's how it goes!"

The two brothers entered Tywin's room, and the golden-haired squire followed but stood by the wall behind Jaime.

"Father, what's so urgent?" Jaime poured two cups of sweet wine for himself and his brother.

Tywin was discussing matters with his brother Kevan. Two letters sat on the table beside them.

Tywin didn't address them immediately but gestured at the letters, continuing his conversation with Kevan.

Jaime took the letters over to Tyrion, knowing his brother's small stature, and without thinking, he always helped Tyrion with such things.

"The combined forces of the Seven Kingdoms are to attack the Stepstones?"

"Tyrion, look here — Wright killed Viserys Targaryen?"

Both brothers were stunned by the contents of the letters, which clearly weren't related but were both shocking. They quickly handed the letters back.

Tywin and Kevan stopped talking and turned toward them. Kevan spoke first:

"Wright killed Viserys Targaryen — what does that have to do with us? What you should be concerned about is how he killed him."

"Magic. Destroyed a whole town! Killed over a thousand Golden Company mercenaries in one go!" Both Jaime and Tyrion were taken aback, realizing this was even more devastating than the legendary dragon flames.

Tywin: "Wright Baratheon's personal power has reached a level that can no longer be ignored. At this point, he alone is worth an entire army."

Tyrion quickly chimed in, "I completely agree!"

Jaime remained silent. He had trained with Wright before and had witnessed his magic, but now Wright was growing at an extraordinary pace, beyond the comprehension of ordinary men.

Tywin: "But he's still human, and he's in Essos. The most important thing now is for the Seven Kingdoms to send forces to the Stepstones. Jaime!"

Jaime snapped back to attention. "The pirates of the Stepstones have also raided our Lannister merchant ships. Sending forces to wipe them out doesn't seem like a bad idea."

Tywin: "I'm not talking about whether or not we send forces, but how many! The North, the Riverlands, and the Vale, Robert has them camped at the Crownlands — his aim is to keep us in check!"

Kevan added: "After the last incident, the king is wary of our House. If we send too few soldiers, the three northern kingdoms may directly go to war with us. If we send too many, we risk leaving ourselves vulnerable to raids — many of our own vassals have personal grudges."

Jaime looked at Tywin. "Then I should personally lead the forces to the Stepstones."

Tywin didn't reply immediately. He turned to look at the squire standing by the wall, who had gone from being arrogant to much more composed now.

"You know what to do. I've already received word. The combined forces of the Seven Kingdoms to conquer the Stepstones are inevitable. Some of the nobles have already begun recruiting soldiers."

Tywin looked at Jaime seriously and said:

"Once the Stepstones are taken, a new Lord will arise there, probably a Warden one. You, as the heir to House Lannister, don't need to claim that title for yourself. What you need to do is find out who this new High Lord is and make sure to establish a good relationship with him beforehand."

Jaime understood immediately. "I understand, father. I'll make sure to do that."

Tywin then turned to Tyrion. "You go to Casterly Rock and assist with the logistics and defenses there. Kevan will go to the Golden Tooth to organize our defenses."

Tyrion: "Has it really come to this?"

Tywin: "If we are even slightly careless, House Lannister could be finished."

---

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