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"Speech"

'Thoughts'

Writing/Singing

"Foreign Language/Flashback"

-Scene Shift-

Chapter 24: Meeting with Titans

Ned was feeling a bit of a migraine growing.

No, no wait, not a migraine.

How about a full blown headache?

Why? Why did this have to come soon after his arrival to the capital?

He was already having to deal with the debt the crown owed to both Tywin Lannister and the Iron Bank. This was on top of the seemingly small issue of organizing the tournament in his honor, which he hoped Baelish would take care of without borrowing any more coins from the aforementioned parties.

Now one might be wondering why the Warden of the North was suddenly stressing out, almost to the point of him starting to have grey hairs sooner than expected. Why, it was because the Martells had come to King's Landing and a bloody well lot of them. And this was without him knowing of their arrival sooner!

Oberyn fucking Martell led the entourage of his House and family that consisted of his lover, several of his daughters, Nymor Sand, Princess Arianne and the formerly famed member of the Kingsguard Lewyn Martell.

One Martell was bad enough but three on top of the bundle of Sand bastards and a paramour to boot.

Was it too late for him to throw in the badge and go back home? He was seriously considering pissing on his honor and duty and just going back home to Winterfell where he could be with his people and family and simplicity.

None of this political nonsense that involved cutthroat phrases and actions that hid everyone's intentions.

He could only imagine the intentions of the Martells being here.

Ned scoffed to himself. Of course he knew why they were here, who was he fooling.

At first, it could be an all too innocent visit for some people. Wanting to come to soon take part in the upcoming tournament in a few weeks time. But for those more knowledgeable with the Dornish House… it's not so simple.

None of their blood had stepped foot inside of the capital since the end of Robert's Rebellion with that infamous moment which almost reignited the war. An action which haunted a couple of generations, which no doubt affected the continent. Because of this, none of the Martells or anyone associated with them dared to come into the capital.

Now the truth in the matter as to why they even bothered to come here was rather simple, they all wanted to see Ventus' son.

He shouldn't be all that surprised, all things considered.

And thinking of Ventus' "son", Ned could only frown one more as he thought of the boy's true nature. A Nobody not meant to exist.

How can that be explained to anyone?

Shoving the question he kept coming back to the upteenth time away, Ned went back to the present matter at hand.

With the Martells presently in the capital, he needed to be sure everything would be fine. He did not want any conflict… well little to no conflict to spark between the Martells, the Lannisters and King Robert. There is bound to be some, that is a known fact. It's just one wrong spark and things will go magnificently wrong for the realm.

Seven Hells, the Gods must love tormenting him. Ned had been constantly asking if he did more wrong then he had initially believed but all he ever got was silence. It was bad enough losing the first love of his life, his father, brother and sister in one fell swoop.

He prayed thoroughly that something like this would not happen again.

Looking over to the pitcher of wine on his desk, Ned was ready to just chug the whole thing down and take a very long nap. Hopefully once he wakes up, he will move on and properly handle these matters at a later time.

Just before attempting to do so, he heard the rapping at the chamber door to his office in the Tower of the Hand.

"Yes?"

Jory opened the door. "Lord Stark, two visitors who have come to see you."

"And who might they be?"

Jory wordlessly stepped back with the door opening in full to reveal none other than the bane of his current migraine.

'Oh great… them!'

"Lord Stark." Oberyn Martell said cheerfully, entering into the room with a flourish followed closely by Lewyn Martell. "Quite a surprise that I would see a Stark as Hand of the King in my lifetime."

"Lord Stark." Lewyn Martell greeted a bit more cordially though he couldn't fight the amused grin he had at his nephew's antics.

Ned honestly forgot of Oberyn's loud, boisterous attitude. Last he witnessed this was during the Tourney at Harrenhal when he and his family interacted with the Martells. He'd rather have conversations with Doran and Lewyn over the Red Viper any day as they were more… mellow and controlled.

"Prince Oberyn, Prince Lewyn." Ned stood from his seat.

"It's just Lewyn, Lord Stark." Spoke the elder Dornishman. "You know I gave up my titles when I was once part of the Kingsguard."

Ned only nodded. "What can I do for you two?"

"Is it wrong for newly arrived individuals of high standing to pay their respects to the Hand of The King?" Oberyn asked in a rhetorical manner.

"So you say." Ned's grey eyes briefly glanced towards the wine pitcher before speaking in a respectful tone. "Would you two perhaps want something to drink?"

"Most certainly." Said the Red Viper.

"I'm rather fine." Spoke the Viper's uncle. "But thank you for asking."

Retrieving a pair of goblets from nearby, Ned poured himself and Oberyn a cup of wine before handing one of them to the Martell. Sitting down, the Warden spoke back up.

"Now then, Prince Oberyn, Lewyn. Why have you come to King's Landing?" Ned asked straight away, making both Martells pause momentarily before the younger of the two grinned widely.

"Ah, a refreshing change of pace." Oberyn remarked. "Nothing like the feeling of Northern honesty to wake one up in the morning."

"It's midday." Ned pointed out.

"Is it?" Oberyn looked to his Uncle who nodded in confirmation. "Huh, I was unaware of that matter."

"Forgive my nephew, Lord Stark. He's like this quite often. Not knowing when to actually act his age."

Ned raised a brow that silently conveyed 'I could see that'.

Oberyn placed a hand over his heart with a mocked look of pain marrying his face. "Hurtful. Just hurtful, uncle."

The former Kingsguard member merely rolled his eyes.

"But, my Lord Hand, since you asked so bluntly I believe it is easy for you to guess as to why we came here so suddenly." Oberyn said with a vague tone. "After all, did he not accompany you to King's Landing here?"

Ned's jaw only clenched.

"It's astonishing really." Lewyn said with a faraway look in his eyes. "It's like looking at the ghost of our pasts coming back to haunt us. I had never seen one look exactly like a parent before, much less sounding the same. I may as well have been looking at Ventus again."

Oberyn hummed in agreement. "And as destiny tends to repeat itself, how poetic is it that the son of Ventus would find himself in the company of Northmen first as he did in Harrenhal."

"What do you want from Roxas?" Ned asked in a slightly defensive manner.

"We assure you, Lord Stark, we mean him no harm at all." Lewyn said defensively. "We'd rather be damned than doing such a thing."

"That's not what I meant." Ned waved him down. "I am very much aware of the high standing Ventus has with your family. It is the same for my own, if you were unaware. Ventus had done a great deal of kind and noble deeds in his short stay here with both our Houses indebted to him."

"Yet he did more for the realm during Robert's Rebellion." Oberyn pointed out. "Sure he had served alongside you and your bannermen when fighting the Targaryens and his forces."

Ned didn't have to reconfirm on who the Dornish prince spoke of. Practically their generation and the one's prior clearly knew who they referred to. Just saying his name was like a poison on their lips with how much they feared and despised him for what he'd done during the Tourney at Harrenhal and in the Rebellion.

"Whatever happened to that man?" Lewyn asked darkly.

"He disappeared." Ned firmly stated. "Same day as the day Ventus went missing. No trace of him and his Unversed."

"You sure about that?" Oberyn asked intently.

"Most certainly."

Ned received the news when he was on his way to Riverrun to fetch his wife Catelyn, with Lyanna's corpse and the infant Jon in his possession. Before reaching the Tully stronghold, he was visited by the Keybearer, who went by the name of Aqua as she knew Ventus far longer than he ever could. She told him very little, but the amount of information was great.

Asides from receiving the Wayfinder Ventus wanted to give to him, Ned learned that his young friend had defeated him in their final clash. And with that, the Unversed threat was no more.

"And what of these Heartless? Could they be related to them?" Lewyn brought up.

"It's something I often question quite often, Lewyn. They are related, yet they aren't."

Soon the sound of a goblet hitting Ned's desk brought the others' attention to the Viper in the room. Having already drank his wine all in one go with a little trickle rolling down his mouth.

"Blasted bastard." Oberyn hissed venomously. "If he were here now…"

"You wouldn't be able to do shit to him, Oberyn." Lewyn sharply cut off his nephew. "You remember how dangerous he is. Don't tempt fate as we have so many times before."

Oberyn only sneered, though it was not directed at his Uncle.

"Bad enough he almost took… might've even killed Elia and Rhaenys if it weren't for Ventus." Oberyn grumbled out.

"Yes, we know Oberyn. You don't have to remind us." Lewyn stressed out, hands tightening as he didn't want to remember that particular moment at Harrehal's Tourney.

There was a tense silence that momentarily permeated the room of the Hand with Ned clearing his throat a moment later.

"So you are here to pay back the debt to Roxas that you owed to Ventus, I take it."

"For the most part, it could be seen that way."

Ned drank some of his wine from his goblet. Setting it down, he looked back at them. "You came with quite a sizable retinue of your household and family."

After the main Martell ship arrived at the capital, several more ships arrived with what can arguably be a small army of Dornishmen. Couple hundred if Ned were to guess.

"Coming to this shitpile of a city, we have to be careful so neither of us can get hurt by your friend and his good-family." Oberyn spoke with a grim look to his face.

"And you fear nothing from me?" Ned asked, making Oberyn scoff.

"Believe me when I say this, Eddard Stark. You are unaware of the impact you have made on the Dornish people and the Martells is just as great as Ventus' was." The Red Viper said sincerely, momentarily surprising Ned.

He certainly was not aware of this, as Oberyn had just stated.

"Sure, you slew our famed Sword of the Morning, who Elia was quite close to when growing up. That bit alone can piss off a good number of us." Oberyn said with an edge to his tone. "But… it was because of you that many of our own sons managed to return home after the war. Why my uncle Lewyn got to live to see Dorne again. You and Ventus had tried to repair so much damage even during the war. That is an admirable feat in itself, Lord Stark."

Ned hung his head. "Yet we failed to protect them. We failed to secure and protect your sister and her children."

Oberyn clenched his fists tightly at the mention of those he had lost. Of what the Martell family had lost.

"There has not been a day that has gone by when I thought of them, Prince Oberyn." Ned confessed. "Them and so many others weigh so much. I can only believe how worse it was for both you, your family and for Ventus."

Oberyn sighed shakily with Lewyn giving him a solemn look.

"You are a better man than people give you credit for, Lord Stark." Oberyn said earnestly. "I can see why Ashara fell in love with you that day."

Ned froze at the mention of his first love, eyes glazing over as his vision was filled with haunting purple eyes and a melodic laughter ringing in his ears.

"We don't blame you, if we're being honest." Lewyn informed. "We only blame Rhaegar for starting that whole mess. Taking your sister and overlooking Elia after she'd given him two beautiful children… all because of that stupid obsession of his."

"The dragon must have three heads." Oberyn quoted with utter distaste. "Was the last thing Elia could inform my uncle before the Battle of the Trident and the sack of this gods forsaken city. If it weren't for Ventus saving him, then the rest of our family would have been none the wiser."

Ned didn't need to be reminded of that for he knows of it quite clearly as his sister told him as she laid dying.

Wanting to move things along, the Warden of the North spoke the next thing on his mind. "Tell me, where are your daughters now Oberyn?"

"With my son and grand niece, no doubt." Lewyn answered before Oberyn could speak.

"And where would they be?" Ned asked rhetorically, already knowing the answer.

"Why with Roxas and that Cloud fellow, obviously." Said the Dornish prince with his mischievous smile now back on his face. "They were so looking forward to meeting his son. And after that display on the Blackwater, they wanted to have a nice chat with Cloud. Though it is clear how much Tyene and Arianne seem to favor Roxas."

Ned couldn't help but groan at the mention of daughters and Roxas.

"I… am unsure if you are aware of this, Oberyn." Ned said. "But Robert Baratheon had decreed it that Myrcella is to wed Roxas."

"Such a shame too." Pouted the Viper. "Would've been honored in having Roxas join our family."

"Come now, Oberyn." Lewyn said knowingly. "If your niece and daughter are like you as many have said them to be, do you truly believe a betrothal will stop their pursuit?"

Hearing this brightened Oberyn a little while having Ned's mood darken on the implications.

From what he knows of the vices of the infamous Red Viper… and now learning of the heir of Dorne itself with one of the Viper's daughters sharing the same appetite…

He could only worry now on what may happen to both Roxas and Myrcella. Probably station some guards in front of the Keybearer's chambers for the duration of the Martell's stay.

"Well if that would be all." Ned began, standing up as he went to escort the two Martells out of his office. "I have some matters to attend to. One of which is now finding a proper place for you and your family's retinue to stay in while at the Keep."

"That is very much appreciated, Lord Stark." Spoke the elder Martell as he went to leave the room.

"Uncle…"

Lewyn looked towards his nephew. "Yes?"

"I'll catch up with you later."

The former Kingsguard member was about to question what was going on before seeing the look of his nephew's demeanor and look in his eye. Without any other word, Lewyn left, leaving Oberyn behind in the same room as the Quiet Wolf.

"Prince Oberyn?" Ned was confused of why the Red Viper had yet to depart.

The Dornish Prince had gone over to the window of the Tower of the Hand with a melancholy look on his face. He was quiet for several moments, unmoving and unresponsive.

"I would like to personally apologize to you, Lord Stark." Oberyn said, voice low. "I had always wanted to do this but time and circumstance, it seemed, kept me from such an action."

"Whatever for, Prince Oberyn?" Ned inquired. "Had I done something to you that had offended you?"

The Prince of Dorne had not responded at first, still facing the cityscape below. He sighed a moment later, leaning against the wall with his gaze now directed at the ground.

"For a time, a foolish moment in my life, I held a deep contempt towards the Starks." Oberyn freely admitted with a blank tone making Ned blink at this revelation. "I had once blamed your sister on seemingly bewitching Rhaegar to betray my sister. But that was not the case at all as it was merely the other way around. Fulfilling his lust and obsession with fantasy and prophecy."

"It was Doran that told me and made me come to my senses, that if there was any family that would understand the pain the Martells were going through…" Oberyn's gaze now locked on to Ned's. "If there was anyone in Westeros that understood the pain of losing a sister, it was the Starks of Winterfell."

Pushing himself off the wall, he walked over to the front of Ned's desk and leaned his hands upon it. The Red Viper held an analytical gaze, his eyes boring into the Hand of the King.

"Eddard Stark. The Quiet Wolf. The Wolf of Winterfell that was the second son who became the Lord after losing his father, brother, sister and his first love all to due to the actions and madness of the Targaryens." Oberyn listed off. "I understand you have a brother, yes? I remember seeing a smaller one briefly back at Harrenhal."

"Benjen, yes."

"And your mother?"

"Died bringing him into this world." Ned said quietly, making Oberyn nod his head solemnly.

"You are a better man than most, Eddard Stark." Oberyn complimented. "Had it been any other man, I believe he would have fallen to grief and madness after suffering such loss."

Ned's face was unreadable yet his eyes told a different story altogether. It was a blistering winter storm of loss and regret, mourning over what could have been and what he failed to save.

"We've had a mutual relationship, you and I, through Ventus. I hope now we could maybe make things more than such." Oberyn confessed. "Sure your Baratheon friend may sour this opportunity, but I'm willing to look past that as best as I can."

"..."

"Do you think of them?"

"All the time." Ned admitted in a whisper.

"What of Ashara? I know you and her fell in love at Harrenhal. Do you still love her? Even to this day?"

He didn't respond at first but Oberyn could see the torment within.

"I do… God's yes, I still do. Even now." Ned's voice was hoarse now, recalling Ashara in vivid detail.

Oberyn only outstretched his hand for Ned with the Stark reaching out and grasping it with the two sharing a look of mutual respect and understanding.

"I shall enjoy my time here a bit more now, knowing there are better men occupying seats of power." Oberyn stated, leaving Ned alone in his chambers.

The Quiet Wolf was like his title, quiet in his office as he never uttered a sound. Processing everything which occurred here.

The headache he had earlier was no longer present. And the weight he held for most of his life seemed to become a little lighter now. Not a lot, but a good amount if he were to guess.

Hand rubbing his chin, Ned closed his eyes as several silent tears streaked down the sides of his face. Honestly, he'd rather stay in bed for today but as per usual duty calls.

-Elsewhere in the Red Keep-

"You sure no one will get in here?"

"I'm sure, Cloud."

"What about listening in?"

"I'm being careful about that. Did you even see what I did to the door?"

The tall blond released a frustrated sigh, leaning against the wall in Roxas' bedchambers.

After the whole debacle in Blackwater Bay, the two blondes had to get acquainted with the newly arrived guests to the capital. And interacting with the Martells, so far, had differing reactions towards the respective swordsmen.

For Roxas, they were quite chummy, for the most part. Respectful in their own right and showed their desire on wanting to know of the son of the infamous Ventus. Some more than others, given the brief discussions he had with them as they'll want to chat more later on once settling in.

Now while the interactions he had with the three elder members of the Martell party were openly respectful, the younger members were a mixed bag.

Obara and Nymeria Sand were a bit tense around him from what he noticed, but played it off on the unsettledness they had from the fight earlier. Roxas figured it was mostly due to their personality, rarely trying to be respectful on first introductions as they were more upfront, rude and trying to be intimidating. Something No. XIII could relate with both Axel and Lexaeus in terms of comparison sakes. But he figured they'll be a bit more open up in due time.

Nymor seemed to be a lot like his father, Lewyn, in many regards. Polite, yet developing a stern quality. He was quite questionable, possibly a little too much for his tastes, which was quickly noticed as he became apologetic.

Princess Arianne and Tyene on the other hand… they were acting a little like the women from the brothels. Not outright, but showed some hints of their mannerisms. Like when he briefly chatted with them, they seemed to stand a little bit too close to him. He did politely move away, which did earn this displeased reaction for some reason. Hopefully he can figure out this little inquiry later.

Now for Cloud, he thought they were intruding on his personal space. A bit too much for his taste with the way two of those Sand Snakes kept sliding over right into his personal bubble. Obara and Nymeria, if he recalled.

Everytime they got too close for his taste, the terse look he gave them made them back off yet it did little in deterring them it seems. He wasn't oblivious to their intentions. Cloud was well aware of what they wanted and he wasn't about to let a few wet behind the ears brats just sidle up to him.

Not when he has her waiting for him back home. She who gave him her light when he needed it.

They were relentless but they were barking up the wrong tree in that matter. Hopefully a blunt message will sort them straight.

Yet this didn't help as he seemed to notice the same particular gaze Obeyrn and Ellaria had with the two elder Sand Snakes. That got a shiver running down his spine.

He was not a swinger. Case closed. Some of his companions back home made fun of him on that after wearing a dress ONE TIME and never let it go. So like aforementioned: blunt message towards the Dornish Prince and his paramour, end of story.

With the other members of the Martell party, he didn't get the chance to interact with them as they were a bit more focused on Roxas before they left their separate ways.

"Good." Cloud said simply. "Don't want to break anymore of the World Order than it should anyways."

"So… to start things off," Roxas placed a hand atop the golden-yellow egg that rested upon his bed beside the obsidian-black one. "Any ideas what these could be?"

Cloud's brow furrowed in thought, looking over the oversized eggs as he tried to figure out what exactly could they be. He had some kind of an idea but he wasn't sure.

"You say you got these from a Moogle, right?" Cloud inquired.

Roxas nodded. "Yeah, Moo handed them off to me telling me this species hatches better around people then being in cold storage."

"Did he tell you what it's called?"

"Something with Choco in it."

Cloud blinked at that, eyes widening slightly. "Chocobo eggs? You got Chocobo eggs?"

Roxas eyed Cloud. "You know what they are?"

"If it's Chocobo eggs, then yes, without a doubt." Cloud stated, approaching the obsidian black egg. "Useful avian creatures that can be used as mounts when fully grown along with other tasks."

"As mounts?"

"Horses, if you're wondering." Roxas nodded as Cloud continued. "Anyways, these might prove useful in getting around more. Yet they might pose a problem."

"Which is?"

"There are no other Chocobo's in this World. So they'll no doubt stick out badly once they hatch and are fully grown."

"...Oh…"

"Oh is right."

Digesting this bit of conflict, Roxas soon asked the following. "What else could you tell me about them? Like how to raise them, much less feeding them."

"Feeding them won't be a problem since I figure we can get what they eat from that Moogle down at the Street of Steel you told me about or you can go to Radiant Garden for that matter." Cloud said. "But keeping them away from prying eyes may be a bit of a more difficult story. Unless…"

Roxas looked up to Cloud. "Unless what?"

"Once these two hatch, we'll need to bring them to the Moogle in order to make Summon charms for them." Cloud stated. "That way they can always be on our person and be kept at a safe location when we don't need them."

Roxas nodded in agreement.

"Now with raising them, we'll have to keep them in a warm bed while they're still chicks. Most of all, we need to raise them like proper parents."

"...I don't follow."

"Once hatching, they'll imprint on the first person or being they see and think of said person/being as their parent. We both need to treat them right while caring for them, creating a very strong bond in the process. This means we'll have to take them out for walks each day for proper exercise, interact with certain people and beings, and some other activities to build the relationship between "parent" and "child"."

This reminded him a bit with how the Stark children had been raising their direwolves. And it showed so far in their growth.

"And I should mention the Chocobos have an interesting growth spurt.

"Growth spurt?"

"Some days after hatching, you will start seeing them grow in size. About a few weeks in, they'll grow into becoming adolescents or "teenagers", which will be the most difficult for novices. We can't fully baby them at this point in time or else they'll become spoiled and harder to control. So don't be afraid to scold them occasionally. And by the end of the month after hatching, they'll become a fully grown adult and can be properly ridden."

"Huh." Roxas scratched his head. One month fatherhood was certainly a new prospect for him. "So when would these guys hatch?"

Cloud shrugged. "Could be today. Could be tomorrow. Could be a few days from now. It can range depending on the variation we have here."

"Right." Roxas then saw Cloud fish out the Summon Charm they acquired earlier from his pocket. "So you wanna discuss that new summon now."

No. XIII went over to the chest he had gotten from Wallachia. Opening it up, sifted through it before pulling out the book he was looking for.

"This may help us out like it did with the Ifrit Charm." Roxas stated, opening the book to a random page with Cloud going over to his side and peering down overhead.

When Roxas returned with a chest full of tomes and items, Cloud was certainly surprised to discover the Nobody brought back books that contained such knowledge on Keyblades and magic.

Cloud dangled the small charm beside the book, giving Roxas the item he needed to match within these pages.

Flipping through several more pages, Roxas soon came towards an illustration of something similar to the Heartless they fought earlier.

"Alright… So the charm we have here is for something called Leviathan, a rather violent sea-serpent dragon." Roxas said, placing his finger over a large serpent of a creature with several large dorsal fins, a pair of which resembling wings and two whiskers of sorts.

"It says here that these creatures are referred to as "the Seak King" and "Lord of all Waters"." Roxas paraphrased the text. "Is a serpent-dragon of old folklore that dates back to ancient times that has been known to be the cause of tidal waves, tsunamis, whirlpools, water spouts and other water related capabilities that can cause serious area wide damage. A bit of a wild card in controlling. Will acquiesce to those of strong domineering will power."

"Sounds a bit hard to control." Cloud noted as Roxas gave a slight nod. "Then you won't be hurt with me taking this." Cloud pocketed the charm, giving his reason. "You have this Ifrit you mentioned. I might as well take Leviathan since you have yet to pay me to actually stay in this city."

Roxas shrugged, figuring it was fair. Cloud helped fight the one Heartless afterall and he needed to pay the swordsman as per agreement at some point.

"And I'll be taking this too."

No. XIII saw Cloud take the black chocobo egg and held it gently in his arms.

"Any reason why that one?

"...I like the black chocobos."

Hearing Cloud's admitted response was a little interesting to hear before seeing the swordsman come towards the door and tried opening it, only to find it not budging. Releasing a sigh, he looked towards the Nobody and made the obvious gesture.

Summoning his Keyblade, Roxas shot a beam towards the door to his chambers as a barrier of light appeared before disappearing shortly after. Cloud grasped the door handle and was able to properly open it this time.

The tall blonde swordsman halted as he saw a slightly frazzled Arya standing there with her hand raised in a motion to knock which quickly dropped. Her clothing was the same from the port if not a little dirtier and rugged with her hair a bit unkempt.

"Cloud." she said happily, smiling up at him before giving the same smile to Roxas.

"Arya. Something you need?" He bluntly asked.

Arya nodded. "I was wondering if we can practice a bit more."

"Didn't we do that earlier?" Cloud pointed out.

Arya vigorously nodded her head again. "Well that was before the Martells showed up."

"...Okay, you lost me."

"They're so nice and wonderful." Arya declared aloud. "When I told them that I train with you and Roxas, all the girls wanted to know how good you guys are and wished to see what I had learned from you both."

"Oh yeah, that's right." Roxas began. "I remember you idolize women fighters like those from Dorne and over at Bear Island."

"Uh huh~" Arya nodded her head vigorously.

Cloud eyed the young Stark as an old memory of his childhood flashed through his mind for the briefest of moments. One fueled with determination and a goal in mind to earn a rank, a title shared with his idol.

"Fine." Cloud drawled out, hearing a muttered 'yes' from the young She-wolf with fist pumping. "Let me just put this," ushering the black chocobo egg in his arm, "away first."

"What is that anyway?" Arya asked inquisitively.

"An egg to a giant bird." Cloud said plainly, getting a blank stare from Arya.

"We'll explain later." Roxas said, patting the young She-wolf on her shoulder. "Now come on, let's go since you're still up for more training."

"Can I use Needle this time?"

"We'll see." Was all Cloud said as the Nobody locked the door behind him with his Keyblade.

If she was going to try and impress some idols or whatever they claim to be in the young pup's eyes, he's gonna have to make things tough for her.

Once dropping off the black chocobo egg into Cloud's quarters, they went back to the training grounds they were at earlier today. With Arya walking with a skip to her step, they eventually saw the number of Martells waiting patiently for their arrival.

Well patiently is a strong word in a few of their cases. The three daughters of Oberyn were merely walking in place or rapidly tapping their foot or hand.

Hearing the number of steps coming their way, some briefly thought it was just another passing guard or servant. That wasn't the case when seeing the people they were anticipated to see again.

"Ah, Roxas." Oberyn Martell greeted him with a friendly grin. "And Cloud Strife. Wonderful for the both of you too join us." The Red Viper noticed the young Stark girl with his grin widening. "And if I recall correctly, you must be Arya Stark. I think in the madness of our entrance, we hadn't the proper chance of meeting."

"Hello." Arya said pleasantly. "Arya Stark."

"I've met your father, Eddard." Oberyn said with glin of mischief in his eyes. "Now that I got a good look of you, you almost look like your late aunt."

"...I've heard of that a lot."

Roxas could only look at the young She-wolf with a bit of shared sympathy. At least hers was not as bad.

"You guys wanted something?" Cloud asked, crossing his arms.

"Ah yes, of course." Oberyn said, moving to the weapons rack nearby. "I have seen a great many deal of extraordinary things in my life. And the skills displayed by you and young Roxas are quite astounding to say the least."

Eyeing the many swords strapped onto Cloud's back, Oberyn briefly thought they were all just for show. In fact this was not the case, given he had seen they made up all one giant sword as he saw Cloud pull out one part when fending off against the Leviathan Heartless earlier.

It was a unique set of weapons that would no doubt be a hassle for any to fully carry. One or two was fine at best, three or more made one think the wielder was compensating for something while merely showing off. But this Strife person carried them just fine, showing that with all that weight on him, he had no problem at all. And seeing the visible toned muscles showed he trained long and hard to make that all happen.

Grabbing a spear with a twirl, Oberyn whirled round to face the two blondes with a challenging smirk.

"And I must say myself, it has been some time since I've had a fair challenge of my skills." Oberyn slammed the bottom of his spear at the ground. "If you are willing to indulge me."

Cloud released a sigh, pinching the bridge of his nose. "And here I thought it was just going to be a simple training session or something."

"Or something." Said Obara, eyeing the tall blonde with a smirk.

Cloud gave Oberyn's eldest daughter a bland stare. After a few moments, he looked back at the Red Viper. "Then you just want to spar against me?"

"Why not. I'd like to gauge your capabilities."

"You might come to regret that."

"I'd like the challenge."

Any challenge the Viper faces is one step closer to properly take down Clegane once and for all. He needs every experience he can get against that monster.

Cloud went over to the side and pulled out five of the six sword components which made up his Fusion Sword from his holster. Leaning them against the wall, Cloud pulled the last one and carried it in his grasp.

"Alright, you asked for it." Said the blonde swordsman, wielding his Hollow Blade; a thin sheet of metal with a two handed handle wedged in the back instead of the initial bottom.

Seeing as Oberyn currently wielded a bladed weapon, Cloud had to somewhat comply with using live steel on this spar.

Wanting to get a comfortable spot to sit at, Arya went over to where the other Martells were at, dragging Roxas with her. Seeing them come over, Tyene and Arianne scooted over to make room for them. The Keybearer sat down first, making the two girls briefly wonder who'll fully sit next to him. This was answered with Arya sitting next to Arianne, having Tyene smirk a little more.

Both men stood in the middle of the training ground.

Cloud stood straight, one hand grasping the handle of his Hollow Blade as it was held down towards the ground. Oberyn had his left foot forward, body angled with his shoulder facing Cloud. He grasped his spear with the blade held in a diagonal fashion with the steel held above his right ear.

Both were motionless for a brief moment until Oberyn made the first movement. He made an elaborate spin of his spear and moved for a downward diagonal swing.

*KSSS*

Oberyn and everyone, save for Roxas, all blinked at the sight of the Red Viper standing stock still with the edge of Cloud's sword being a mere inch away from the Martell's neck.

"First off, poor choice of weapon if it's mostly wood."

"Point." Admitted the Dornish prince, holding both pieces of his spear. "But that doesn't mean I'm utterly defenseless."

To prove the point, Oberyn jumped back before charging in with both halves of the spear.

Raising a brow, Cloud merely pivoted his sword to its flat side facing Oberyn and held it up to block the attack before shoving the man back.

Oberyn stumbled slightly before throwing himself into a mid air spin to land gracefully on both feet.

"Nice dexterity." Cloud complimented.

"My thanks." Oberyn remarked, tossing aside the two sticks in hand to catch a new one tossed to him by Nymor. "Though I feel that dexterity will not be enough with someone like you."

Cloud smirked slightly. "Maybe."

The Red Viper went on the offensive.

Switch step, shuffle step, load weight on his left leg before coming in with a feint. Then came in with the other stick for the actual strike, hoping his opponent was thrown off. Yet he was seen rather quickly, which the incoming attack was avoided before Cloud went to attack once more.

On some part, how Oberyn fights is like how Cid fights with his spears. But while Cid was more serious, Oberyn was a bit more playful. Merely "playing" with his food in order to see how they function in order to exploit them while doing his best to throw off his opponent.

So he would end that charade with a single swing of his sword once more.

"You fight with anger. Anger keeps you sharp unless you let it overtake you." Cloud stated while deflecting the various strikes from the Martell Prince.

Oberyn snorted. "Really?"

"Really."

"...I do hide it well, you know."

"I have a knack of finding that."

"Coming from experience."

"Plenty of it."

Cloud let out his first and only offensive swing for this round, splintering the spear once again. Oberyn blinked before huffing now.

"Alright, how am I supposed to compete with that raw strength?" Oberyn asked somewhat petulantly though the underlying joking tone was easy to hear.

"I'm sure you're smart in figuring that out."

Oberyn merely smiled, throwing the ruined pieces at the blonde wolf. As they were swatted away, the Viper came in with a series of punches.

Cloud used his free arm to block and catch the punches and kicks, quickly placing his Hollow Blade on his back to switch to this hand to hand spar.

He had to admit, though she was far more proficient than Oberyn the prince's skills weren't one to scoff at.

The two traded blows as they blocked and parried.

"And where'd you fight like that?"

"From my time in Yi Ti. You?"

"From a friend."

"Some friend you have."

Cloud didn't respond at first. "She's one of the best."

Strife grabbed Oberyn's wrist and delivered a quick haymaker to the Prince, sending him sprawling into the ground with a dramatic groan.

Getting back up, Oberyn wiped some blood off of his mouth. "You fight like a whore." He said before rubbing his jaw.

"No, I fight more like a bastard."

Oberyn smiled before delivering a roundhouse kick at Cloud in order to continue the spar.

Off to the side, the young teenagers all stood and watched as the two sparred with one another.

"Are we just gonna stand here and watch uncle Oberyn get thrashed all day?" Nymor asked dryly.

"Shh." Obara and Nymeria shushed their cousin, eyes intently locked onto the muscular biceps of the larger swordsmen.

Tyene saw this and after sharing a look with Nymor, both rolled their eyes at the older twos blatant lust and interest directed at Cloud.

After falling onto the ground from quite the impressive punch coming from Oberyn, Cloud merely shrugged off the pain as he dealt with worse. In a blink of an eye, the Blonde Wolf came right at the Red Viper, engaging one another again.

Oberyn lashed out with controlled, violent punches towards Cloud's face before attempting to deliver a successful drop kick. Cloud swiveled his head away before performing a backflip to avoid the kick. Once back onto his feet, he saw the Viper tried to get too close into his comfort zone. But that was a bit of a crucial mistake when the Martell delivered a right hook to his temple. Strife swiftly ducked under the right hook and took the opportunity to deliver a swift uppercut to the Dornishman's chin.

From their placement in the training ground, the Martell group thought Cloud had missed that hit. But Roxas clearly saw it was met. Everything seemed fine and all, until they saw Prince Oberyn not move after several moments, which made them quite worried.

The Viper went to throw another punch, yet he fell to the ground as he lost all sorts of balance. He tried to stand back up, but his legs just wouldn't support him.

The daughters of Oberyn snapped out of their admiring daze at the sight of their father struggling to get back up.

"Hey! What the hells did you do to him?!" Nymeria roared out, stomping towards Cloud. "If you crippled our father-"

"I merely hit his sweet spot." Defended the Blonde Wolf, which briefly stopped her murderous advancements along with everyone else in the training yard.

"What does that mean?" Arya asked. "His sweet spot?"

Having enough experience in fighting, both personally and from Sora's memories, No. XIII explained. "There are some parts on a person's body that when hit just right, it sends shockwaves and disrupts it. It makes it impossible for the brain to tell certain limbs or whole sections of the body on how to work right."

"He's correct." Cloud said, confirming Roxas' assessment. "And don't worry, it only lasts for a few minutes. Or if you all are really impatient." Holding up his left hand, he tightened his grip as a green aura surrounded it as he was casting Cure. As if tossing something in his grasp, Cloud threw a small ball of green light onto Oberyn's prone form as he was surrounded by a green light. A moment later, the Viper felt good as new.

Getting back up onto his feet, Oberyn moved his body around as he felt good as new. "Haven't felt like that in a long time."

"What? Getting your ass handed to you or being healed by magic?"

"Both."

"Hmm… at least I pulled my punch there or else you'd have a harder time getting back up."

Oberyn chuckled, knowing that to be true as Strife was far stronger than he initially expected.

"I believe that's enough out of me for today." Oberyn looked towards the others present in the training yard. "Anyone else want to go next?"

"I'll be sitting this one out." Cloud said, going back to retrieve his swords. "Only came over here to train Arya."

"Oh, don't be like that Strife. I'm plenty sure one of my daughters or Nymor would like to go up against you next."

"Not interested."

The Viper could see his two eldest daughters pouting a little in their own respective ways on not having the chance to spar against Cloud. Wanting to get in close and having one on one intimate moments with the swordsman.

"Then perhaps Roxas could have a turn."

At the mention of this, the present fighters of the Martell party looked towards the Keybearer, who soon moved his head side to side to see the deep looks aimed towards him. All the while, Arya was getting more and more giddy in seeing how all this will play out.

-The Next Day-

"So, where are we going again?" Arya asked, following after Roxas down the Street of Steel.

"I figure that since I've gotten some stocked up materials with my… account, so to speak, with the Moogles we can use what I've got to help improve your sword." Roxas said, turning a corner with Arya now skipping slightly.

"Improve my sword?" Arya asked excitedly. "Are you serious?"

Roxas smiled slightly and nodded which served to make Arya jitter more with excitement.

This had been the first time Arya had gotten to explore King's Landing as a whole and while her father was resistant to it at first, Roxas being the one to accompany her swayed him to her request.

So now, here she was, walking amongst the people of the capital. And in all honesty, the smell of metal and fire was a more welcomed smell in comparison to the literal stench of shit the city usually permeates.

Her own Direwolf Nymeria had constantly sneezed and occasionally rubbed her nose to show her how much the smell of King's Landing didn't agree with her. Same thing with Sansa's Direwolf, Lady.

She wished that Nymeria would join her right about now, but even she had to agree with her father that the sight of a giant wolf walking amongst the people of King's Landing would lead to unnecessary attention and drama. And the young She-wolf did not want that on both herself and her precious direwolf.

"How far is this place?" Arya asked.

"Not that much further." Roxas said. "Just up ahead and around the corner. See that sigil of the red hammer and anvil?"

Arya nodded, continuing to follow after her mentor.

Arya had wondered if anyone would be looking towards Roxas with reverend and awe, given what she'd been hearing since yesterday. Of both him and Cloud taking down that dragon-like Heartless in Blackwater Bay. She had heard servants and guards calling them Dragonslayers or some other titles given their action yesterday. Hells, King Robert even liked the title and wanted to make it official, just to annoy the two blondes.

That wasn't the case as Roxas currently wore something other than his black leather hooded coat for once in a long time. Saying he got his present attire from this one seamstress called Edna Mode or something.

Arya had admitted it looked pretty good on him while some others like Sansa and Myrcella merely blushed when seeing him in this present attire. The adults, however, merely looked at Roxas a little longer in complete and utter bewilderment. They had never seen garments like that with only Ventus being the only one they had ever seen wearing unusual clothes similar to Roxas though not in style.

"So how are these two blacksmiths like?" Arya inquired.

"Well, you'll meet them in a few moments." Roxas said. "But one of them is about my age. Not that much older than you. I think you and him might get along."

Arya nodded as she sticked close to Roxas, holding onto the handle of her sword given how nervous she was. It was not by much, but just enough given what she heard of what occasionally happens in this city.

Unbeknownst to them, there was someone following them a good safe distance away.

Using all of the skills she'd learned back home, Tyene Sand was doing her best in not being noticed by the two. And she was a bit thankful of the amount of people around them to make this happen. But this was a little double edge sword as she might have the off chance of losing them.

Thankfully, Roxas' blond crop of hair stood out from the crowd as well as what he wore so spotting him in the crowd was easy enough. If he had kept on wearing that black hooded coat of his, she could have a little easier time seeing him given how unique it looked. But his present attire wasn't all that bad at all. In fact, it made him look quite handsome.

Now as to why she was tailing them was simple, she and her family wanted to know a bit more of the mystery that is Roxas.

There was plenty of time to have the chance to get to knowing him better. There was no exact planned time on them having to return back to Dorne. But given how mixed their feelings are in the capital, they would return sometime after the coming Tourney of the Hand in a matter of weeks. Hopefully by that time, they can learn plenty enough.

But that wasn't all that was initially planned.

Eventually coming towards a large building, Tyene saw them enter the establishment. Not wanting to lose sight of them, she made it towards the entrance and looked inside to see them going a little further in as Roxas came towards a tall black haired teenager working on an anvil.

"Hey Gendry."

The tall teen looked back and smiled slightly at the sight of Roxas.

"Roxas, good to see you." Gendry greeted, setting down his hammer before looking down to the girl standing by Roxas' side. "And you are?"

The young She-wolf shifted about uncomfortably. "I'm Arya Stark."

Gendry blinked. "Like, Eddard Stark, the King's hand? That Stark?"

Arya squirmed slightly now before nodding. Roxas noticed this and on top of knowing her usual reaction to formalities and titles, intervened on her behalf.

"You can just call her Arya." Roxas remarked, making Arya look up to Roxas for a moment before smiling and nodding in agreement.

"But wouldn't that be inappropriate?" Gendry questioned slightly nervously. "I should be calling you my lady."

"Do not call me a lady." Arya fiercely corrected, any signs of hesitation gone.

Gendry blinked, bowing his head a moment later. "As my lady commands."

The young She-wolf suddenly got a quickened twitch in her eye. She abruptly walked over to him and pushed him against his stomach.

Gendry titled his head. "Well that wasn't lady like at all."

Arya pushed him once more with Gendry now chuckling with Roxas joining in. The young Stark girl huffed, crossing her arms in annoyance.

"So is there any reason why you're here, Roxas?"

Roxas turned towards Arya, ushering her to unseath Needle. Once drawn, she handed it to the young black smith.

Once in his grasp, he looked over the thin looking blade. He can tell how well made it was. Pretty much one of the best he'd seen outside of this shop he called home.

"Where'd you get this?"

"Roxas and Mikken made it for me."

"Did he now." Gendry muttered, eying Roxas. "Who's Mikken?"

"The blacksmith back in Winterfell. Was her name day present."

"Okay, but what do you need this for? It doesn't look broken at all."

"I know that, Gendry. I'm asking if Moo could help improve it."

Gendry stiffened a little before looking back and forth between Roxas and Arya.

"If you're wondering, yes she knows about them."

Gendry looked at them again, seeing no lie coming from them.

"Did someone call my name, Kupo?"

It was at this moment that both Arya and the hidden Sand Snake widen their eyes upon seeing the sentient winged ball of sooted white fluff.

"Well hi there KupOOOOH!"

Moo the Moogle suddenly found himself ensnared in a powerful bear hug with Arya Stark rubbing her cheek against his own.

"You are one of the most adorable things I've ever seen!" Arya squealed aloud, making Gendry and Roxas cringe at the ringing in their ears.

"Ah geez Kupo." Moo strained out, feeling his breath get taken away from the sheer force of the hug. "I'd be more flattered if I could bre-*wheeze*."

"Who's a cute wittle guy? Who's a cute wittle guy? Is it you?! Is it you?!"

Within her grasp, the Moogle's smooth white fur started changing color from pink to slowly transitioning to purple. "Please help me, Kupo! I'm-GAH! You're squeezing too hard!"

"Arya." Roxas chuckled aloud. "I think you need to let the little guy breath."

Blinking, Arya pulled away to see the Moogle's eyes in a swirl with its color returning to normal. Realizing what she had done, Arya went over to a table and set Moo down who was dazed as he slowly regained his wits about him.

"Sorry."

"It's alright. Sometimes our kind enjoys hugs, but I don't like it all that much. With us being so soft and whatnot…"

"Wait… Are there more of you here?" Arya asked in awe at the thought of there being more adorable little creatures like this one.

"...I've just doomed us."

"What are you?" Arya inquired, poking at Moo's belly which made him chuckle at being tickled.

"Well I'm a Moogle, Kupo." Moo answered. "Our kind specializes in synthesis material. We can make just about anything given the proper materials."

Arya 'Oooh~' with open interest. Moo then turned to Roxas and Gendry.

"What can I do for ya Kupo?" Asked the Moogle.

"Wanting to improve this apparently."

Gendry handed the thin Braavosi styled sword into the Moogle's hands. And surprisingly, the white sooted ball of fluff was easily able to hold the weapon with ease.

"Really?" Moo eyed the weapon while giving the occasional nod. "Yeah I can probably see that you'd want to improve this. And I can see there being some flaws into this."

"What do you mean flaws?" Arya demanded.

"It was made by human hands with materials that your kind are not familiar with." Stated the Moogle.

"You got that right." Roxas muttered out. "Went through a bunch of synthesis materials to help make that sword."

"Uh huh. Well don't fret as I'm here to help fix all this. Provided, of course, with what you have in stock in your account, Mr. Keybearer."

Roxas nodded. "Do what you have to, Moo."

"Happy to hear that, Kupo~." Moo said with a jovial tone. "And since you're new and I expect to see you more often little lady, I'll give you this on the house."

Moo pulled out a pouch of some kind from nowhere that was blank. Curious, Arya took the bag which glowed with its color changing. After the flash of light, there was a silver Direwolf emblazoned on the center with the bag being the same color as her hair.

"What is this?" Arya asked in wonder.

"That's your brand new Munny pouch, specifically tailored to you." Moo said cheerfully. "You'll never lose it and will always be on hand at all times with you even when you don't know it."

Arya's eyes widened with amazement shining in them as she held the pouch closer to her.

"Hey, why didn't I ever get something like that?" Gendry complained jokingly.

"You never asked Kupo." Moo replied plainly making Gendry hang his head at such an obvious answer. Shaking his head, the young blacksmith turned to the greater Nobody.

"Was that the only reason why you came here Roxas?" Gendry inquired. "All of your commissions aren't done just yet."

"I'm not here for those, Gendry. I would like to talk to Tobho Mott on a few things."

Gendry nodded before escorting the Keybearer to his teacher's office.

When this happened, Tyene had to pull herself away from the cracked open entrance. As much as she'd like to venture deeper into the blacksmith shop of the infamous Tobho Mott, she did not want to be caught in the act. She didn't know how long Roxas will be staying there with the Stark kid. It could be a short little while or maybe some hours. And the Sand Snake did not have all that patience to stay near and watch Roxas' every move.

Instead, Tyene decided to head back to the Red Keep to inform her family as they'll no doubt be highly interested to learn what she just found out.

Reaching Tobho's office, Gendry rapped on the chamber door.

"Come in."

Obeying the command, the young blacksmith opened the door before speaking to his teacher. "Master Tobho, Roxas is here for you."

Looking up from his paperwork, the blacksmith from Qohor took notice of the Keybearer. Nodding, he ushered the young man in before Gendry closed the door to return back to his work.

"Is there a reason why you've come back so soon, young man? Your orders are not ready yet."

"I know that, but I wanted to talk to you on a few things. But first…" Roxas soon pulled out and placed the book on Alchemical Theory onto the blacksmith's desk. "Here as promised."

"Ah, this Alchemical tome you spoke of yesterday." Bringing the book closer to him, he opened the cover and started flipping through the pages. "Oh, yes. This will be quite the fascinating read to expand my craft." He looked back up before asking the obvious question. "What else were you here for?"

"Requesting some more commissions." Roxas said, pulling out a parchment of said commissions.

Taking the parchment into his hand, Tobho looked over the desired items. Some he could readily name right away, others he'll have to consult with the Moogles to know what needs to be done to get the desired results.

"You've brought me quite the challenge, Roxas." Tobho stated. "I believe my students, my workers and I shall rise to the occasion."

"It's why I came here." Roxas remarked.

"Now, for the payment."

Roxas nodded, pulling out a small sack of gold coins he already prepared prior to coming here. It was the first payment as he'll have to pay for the rest once the orders are completed.

Tobho didn't need to look inside to double check the amount. Roxas was an honest lad as there ever was one.

Rising from his desk, he went towards a nearby wall before pulling out a key from his robes. Inserting it into a hole in the wall and twisting the key, a compartment opened up to reveal a safe. Looking inside, he saw a substantial amount of coin inside.

"Hmm… seems I'll need to go to the bank today."

Bank? Was Tobho talking about the Iron Bank?

"You sure leaving now would be such a good idea, Tobho?"

"Yes, I'm very sure."

"But Braavos takes about a month to get over there from here before coming back for an additional month."

"...Why are you thinking I'm going there of all places?"

"But you said you're going to the bank."

"Which I am."

"But-"

"Roxas. Did you think the Iron Bank was only located in Braavos?"

...Well this was a surprise.

"Tell me, did you even know the Iron Bank had branched out in recent years? With one of their branches was here in King's Landing?"

Roxas said nothing, dumbfounded on what he just learned.

"Judging by your look, I'm realizing you have not. And by extension the new Hand of the King."

Upon hearing this bit of information, Roxas' mind was starting to work overtime. Things coming together with some problems possibly solved right away.

"Would it be too much trouble if I came along?" Roxas asked, surprising Mott.

"Pardon?"

"I… have something I want to do at the Iron Bank."

Tobho Mott looked at the Keyblader for a few moments before nodding his head in acceptance. "That's fine, young man. You'll be my armed escort on this errand."

Once Tobho retrieved whatever gold from his safe, the two made it out of the smither's office. Making their way towards the entrance, Roxas spotted the young Stark girl.

"Arya." Roxas said to the young girl who had apparently been conversing with Gendry.

"Yes Roxas?"

"Stay here with Gendry for a while." Roxas said. "I gotta handle something with Tobho here with the Iron Bank."

"The Iron Bank?" Arya repeated in intrigue. "Why?"

"Just money matters." Roxas waved off with Arya opening and closing her mouth several times.

"B-But… You'll be gone for a month!" Arya blurted out. "No, wait, two!"

"Apparently not." This further confused the young Stark girl. "There's a bank location here at the capital."

"...When did that happen?"

"That's something I just found out and wondered about myself." Roxas said with a shrug. "So just stay with Gendry here for a while. It hopefully shouldn't take too long."

Arya looked hesitant, looking to Gendry who was staring at Roxas.

"Think you can entertain Arya for a bit, Gendry?" Roxas asked the blue eyed blacksmith.

"I-"

"Thanks, I owe you."

Gendry didn't have time to properly give his answer as Tobho and Roxas left the shop, leaving him and Moo all alone with Arya.

...Well not all alone as soon enough the other employees and students of Tobho will arrive later today. But still…

Exiting the establishment, Roxas walked beside Tobho as the blacksmith led the way towards the bank branch here at the capital. It took some time as it was a little crowded on the Street of Steel. Exiting out of the street, they made a turn from Fishmonger's Square, making their way up Muddy Way. Once making it halfway up, they turned into the Hook. Eventually, Tobho Mott came to a stop in the middle of the street with Roxas following suit.

"This is the place, then?"

"You'd be correct, young man."

Looking at the King's Landing branch of the Iron Bank of Braavos, Roxas saw it was a three, maybe four storied building as it spanned quite the amount of length on the sides. There was white marble and stone comprising it as it was stylized in something akin to what he'd seen on the World of Olympus. Even what carved up artwork he could make out depicted something akin to battles and conflicts. And shown above the entrance was a symbol of an hourglass with some wavy lines crossing through the center and bottom portions.

After taking a hard look at the bank's exterior, Roxas figured it was more akin to a small fortress than a standard building. Given how infamous the Iron Bank was, it probably needed to be so no one would rob it's contents.

"Come along, Roxas."

No. XIII snapped out of his bit of inspection as he followed the blacksmith inside once passing a pair of armed guards.

Stepping through the entrance, he saw an assortment of people sprawled about as they quietly talked amongst each other. Along the one end, there was a row of booths where he saw several bank tellers ready to help take care of withdrawals and deposits for anyone.

Taking his eyes off of them, Roxas looked around the bank's interior as he saw the tiled floor composed of polished granite. The stone support pillars were not of marble, but of some brown stone. There were some staircases which would lead towards the upper and basement levels of the bank branch. What light came through into the entrance area were from the high up windows. And along several parts of the walls and pillars were unlit torches for the nightly hours or dark, overcasted days.

Roxas looked on ahead and saw Tobho come towards one of the bank tellers. When walking up to him from behind, the Keybearer saw the male bank teller speak in a polite, yet tired voice. No doubt being there for a long period this day.

"Welcome to the Iron Bank, where we look after your coin as if it were our own. How might I be of service?"

Pulling out the bag of gold from his coat, the blacksmith gave his response. "I'd like to make a deposit today, please."

"Most certainly. And what is your name?"

"Tobho Mott."

The two soon chatted on for a little bit as Roxas looked over and saw an available teller booth. Coming up to it, the female teller there spoke in a polite voice and was a bit more energetic. Either the person recently checked in for work or was recently new to the position.

"Welcome to the Iron Bank, where we look after your coin as if it were our own. How might I be of service?"

Roxas scratched his cheek, racking his mind a little to pull the desired information Ansem the Wise placed in there. After some moments, he spoke. "I'd like to speak with your manager, if you'd be so kind."

The bank teller blinked a little, being put a little off guard on the given request. "Any reason for?"

"I'd like to settle some matters, please."

"Then are you here to ask about your account? The status? If so, then I'll fetch one of our supervisors?"

"No." Roxas said politely. "I'd like to talk to a manager."

The bank teller stood there for a few moments before nodding. "Then if you'd be so kind as to sit over there. I'll inform our manager on your request."

Roxas complied to the request and went off to sit at a bench on a far off wall.

"Is everything alright, young man?"

Looking up, Roxas saw Tobho Mott standing before him.

"Yeah, I'm alright. Just waiting to speak with the manager." This made the blacksmith rather curious, making Roxas speak again. "I have my reasons."

The older man nodded, not wanting to pry into whatever business Roxas wanted from the bank manager. "A word of advice. You will be here for a while while waiting to discuss matters with a manager of the Iron Bank. I learned this the hard way before I came to Westeros years ago."

"Whatever for?"

"I was fresh out of my training and studies in Qohor, but I had little to no coin to my name. I needed to request a substantial loan so I may open my shop here at the capital. And sadly it took some years to pay back my debt to them in full. But it was well worth it."

Roxas nodded in learning that bit of information before requesting to know something else. "But why the little warning on the wait?"

Tobho released a tired sigh. "A tactic to unsettle people with impatience. Makes them less composed if having to wait for so long. If you know of this beforehand, then you will have the chance of having things going a bit towards your favor as you need to impress them by the end of your meeting."

"Thanks for the advice."

"Seeing as you'll be here longer than expected, I best be on my way."

"Have a good day, Tobho."

"You as well, Roxas."

With the blacksmith leaving the Nobody alone, Roxas took the advice to heart and played the waiting game now.

To preoccupy himself a little, Roxas let his eyes wander to inspect a little more of his surroundings. He soon found himself bored as there was nothing interesting to look at. Not any paintings or tapestries to gaze upon.

He suddenly wished he had brought some reading material with him.

About to rise from his seat in order to walk around a little, he saw someone peculiar walking past him.

'What is Littlefinger doing here?' He thought, seeing the Master of Coin heading towards the exit.

Was Baelish settling some of the large debt? Was he taking out another loan? Roxas wished that wasn't the case.

He wanted to speak out to him, but he was stopped when the one bank teller he spoke to earlier approached him.

"The manager will see you now." Roxas stood up as she continued. "If you'll follow me please."

Being led up the stairs, Roxas came towards a chamber on the highest floor. It was larger than any of the offices he was previously in since coming into this World. In fact, all of them could fit in here with some room to spare.

Either the people who designed this place really liked large offices or it was another tactic to try one's patience when meeting someone on their "home turf".

Outside of the size dimensions, the interior design was much like what he saw back in the main lobby. Though it was more cleaner, given not many people use this space all at once. And the only pieces of furniture in here was a large desk polished to a decent shine, a few benches on one side and a large chair on the other as it was placed closest to the only other door in the room.

Roxas wondered how long he'll have to wait this time. Earlier it was by some amount of minutes. Perhaps he might have to be here for maybe half an hour or maybe much longer than that.

Tobho didn't exactly say how long he had to wait to request for his one loan. He should've asked before the blacksmith left.

Seeing as there was nothing else to do, Roxas sat down on the bench and waited.

…..

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When was someone going to-

The only other door to the large room creaked open, having Roxas stand up from his seat. Coming out from the doorway was a tall man with a receding hairline with a trimmed beard on his face. And his attire consisted of a regal, yet simple robe with a chain-like cord wrapped around his waist.

As the door closed behind him, the man sat down into the chair on the other side of the desk.

"Welcome to the Iron Bank, young man. I am Tycho Nestoris, the manager, what can I do for you?" Spoke the identified manager with a polite smile on his face.

Roxas nodded before addressing himself. "Hello, my name is Roxas."

The manager was silent, processing the name. "Roxas… You wouldn't happen to be the same Roxas marrying into the royal family, correct?"

"...Yeah."

"And the Keybearer as well?"

Roxas nodded. Feeling as if he needed to confirm the manager's inquiry, he summoned Winter's Howl into his grasp. Seeing the look of affirmation on Tycho's face, Roxas dismissed his weapon.

"And how would you know of this?"

"Word travels fast here, young prince. More so after what happened yesterday in the Blackwater."

"I'm not a prince."

"Not yet, but in time you will." Tycho said. "Now, I was told you wanted to speak to me, yes?" Seeing the Keybearer nod once more, the bank manager continued. "Are you here for your father's account?"

"...I'm sorry, but what?"

Tycho hummed, seeing the young man was not intended to be here for that. "I believe I should help clear things up for you, if you don't mind."

"Not at all." Spoke the blonde Nobody, curious on what this account was exactly.

"The origin of your father's account dates back around the time of Robert's Rebellion," Tycho began. "During one of the conflicts of the war, your father came across one of our bank representatives. He came here to strike a deal with one of the Rebel lords, seeking a loan to help supply them with funds."

"Shouldn't this lord go over to Braavos instead?"

"Normally, yes. But many lords were having a hard time crossing the Narrow Sea due a mixture of loyalists and blasted Unversed ships taking the sea. So our representative, who was new at the time, took a chance to come to Westeros. It was prior to his landing when his ship was attacked, where your father came in and saved everyone on board from both of the rebels' adversaries."

Roxas nodded, processing the given information.

"After negotiations were completed, he wanted to repay your father for saving his life. He declined, stating it was merely the right thing to do. Yet our representative felt he still owed him."

"But what does this have to do with this account?"

"When he got back to Braavos to retrieve the funds for the rebels, he opened an account in your father's name. He sent word of the status of this account over along with the loan, stating that Ventus can procure the debt. Unfortunately we had received word of Ventus leaving and was never seen again sometime after the Sack of King's Landing. Feeling that Ventus was still alive while others thought he was dead, the same representative proposed to open up a branch of our bank here in Westeros."

"No doubt back then your colleges were hesitant on the idea." Said Roxas. "But seeing the current state of the branch here, your business is doing better."

"Quite so. Saves a lot of time for many on this continent to speak with us."

"Then can I ask you this? Why would you know of my father's account?"

"It's something I and my fellow managers are told to remember before we take turns operating this branch of ours." Tycho informed. "And now that you are here, our small request is fulfilled. Before you leave, I'll give you the key to access your father's safety deposit box as you are his child as I fully activate the account connected to it."

Roxas nodded, fighting back the urge to correct the bank manager, like everyone else, for the upteenth time. And while it was interesting to learn of this bank account, he saw no use to get into it at this time. Perhaps at a later time, in case of anything.

"Now, I believe you wanted to discuss matters with me instead of your brand new account."

Roxas nodded before stating his original intention of being here. "I want to pay off the debt owed to the crown."

The Iron Bank representative blinked for a moment. "I beg your pardon?"

"I wanna help pay off the debt the crown owes you guys, in full." Roxas said firmly.

"And how can you do that? Forgive me, but prior to this meeting and informing you of your father's account, you have not a coin to your name. And last I know, your father's account does not have the amount to pay the entire debt owed to us."

Roxas wordlessly reached behind him to pull out his munny pouch that he carried everywhere with him. And with a smile, Roxas opened up his pouch and let it's contents pour onto the floor.

-Later, The Red Keep-

'That took longer than I would've thought.' Thought No. XIII as he escorted Arya back to the palace.

He was rather grateful for that large room he and Tycho were in. All of the coins that came out of his Munny pouch filled up the majority of the space. And it was rather funny to see Tycho's shocked face in seeing the display before him.

Roxas hoped all the Munny that was left in that one room was enough to pay off the debt. It was no doubt going to take hours for Tycho and his employees to sort and count through it all. Reason why he informed the Iron Bank manager that whatever was possibly left will be given to them as a commission for their time on this sudden task.

Naturally, Tycho was both immensely impressed and thankful. Before leaving, Roxas procured the key to Ventus' safety deposit box while being informed the manager would inform him when everything was all taken care of.

'Hopefully that part of the debt is taken care of.' Roxas thought, walking through the hallways blindly. 'All that is left is the debt owed to the Lannisters.'

Before rounding one corner, Roxas was met with a smell of perfume in the air. He was curious about it as he almost came across the Master of Whispers himself.

"Ah, Roxas. A pleasure seeing you today." Varys said, briefly surprised on the sudden interaction, but hid it well.

"Uh… Hello Lord Varys. Can I do something for you?" Roxas asked.

"Sorry, but I'm not a Lord."

"But I keep hearing others calling you Lord."

"A courtesy out of respect for my position, I assure you." Varys stated. "Similarly to how many refer to you as a knight, I'd imagine."

He had a point there.

Varys was a bit of an oddball in comparison to the other members of the Small Council that he had met.

Renly seems to be all about popularity since he seems to be well liked in court. Ned is about doing his duty properly and justly, appearing to work well with Renly and Ser Barristan at the very least.

Baelish…. He didn't like him nor the vibe the guy gave off. It felt condescending half the time. Kinda like the way Ansem The Wise acted towards him when he was DiZ in his last few days of existence before returning to Sora.

Pycelle was… old. He may be the Maester but half the time feels like he's not all there. Or maybe it was a ruse. Who knows if it's a trick or not. Frankly, that guy gives him the creeps, no matter how respectful he is towards him.

The only two he had yet to really interact with properly was the missing Baratheon brother and the Master of Whisperers who stood before him.

"May we speak with one another, Roxas?" Varys inquired politely. "I do admit, I would like to know more about the man who has made such an impact to Westeros in such a short amount of time. Much like your father Ventus had done during his brief time here."

"Er… sure, if you say so."

"Wonderful." Varys said pleasantly. "If you would, I believe the gardens would be a sufficient area for discussion."

Varys walked away with Roxas momentarily unsure if he should follow after him but he didn't see a reason not to. He appeared friendly for the most part.

Appeared friendly being the key two words. What did Varys want with him? This entire capital revolved around asking for one thing in hand but hiding an ulterior desire in the other.

Honesty seemed to be a rare commodity brought in only by the men of the North.

Still, there was no reason not to trust Varys for the time so he may as well go along with this little conversation.

He followed after Varys into the gardens of the Red Keep, the two strolling through the shrubs and bushes silently.

"So~... uh, what'd you want to talk about?" Roxas asked after several moments, arms swinging back and forth absentmindedly while clapping.

Varys chuckled softly to himself. "It's quite simple, my boy. I only wish to know you better, if that's alright with you. As Master of Whisperers, Information is my trade after all."

Roxas narrowed his eyes a bit on that remark.

"Information eh? What kind of information?" Roxas asked with his eyes boring into the bald eunuch.

"Now, now." Varys tittered. "I apologize. I didn't mean to come across like that. I had already heard much about your escapades in the North with my little birds."

"Little Birds?" Roxas repeated. "Like… like actual little birds that send you messages?"

"Well they are the primary means of getting the information to me." Varys chuckled. "But no, my little birds are a little something more special. They have spoken a great deal of your grand displays of heroism and selfless character towards the people of the North. There are even songs brewing about you, you know."

"Songs?" Roxas blinked. "About me? What are they about?"

Varys gave the boy an amused smirk. "Oh, the hero in black, he who stands against Darkness. The warrior of light and dark, a crescendo of action to ensure the safety of the innocent."

Now Roxas couldn't help but emulate the way Sora acts when being bashful, smiling slightly with his hands resting behind his head.

"Really?" Roxas was blushing slightly with a bit of embarrassment. "I didn't know that."

Varys eyed the young lad and found his reaction rather amusing. It was rather similar to someone who had done the same before many years ago.

"It's astonishing really." Varys said offhandedly. "Just how much you are like your father, Roxas. It's as if Ventus was standing before me once again and hadn't aged a single day."

Roxas found himself frowning. "Yeah, I've heard that a lot since coming here."

"I can imagine." Varys said, gazing up at the sky. "You do look and sound exactly like him after all."

The greater Nobody was silent for a brief moment.

"What did you know about him?" Roxas found himself asking. "Did you know him personally?"

Varys shook his head. "Not as much as ones such as Lord Stark and the King. They fought side by side with him on the battlefield. The only time I had ever met with him was perhaps… twice in Harrenhal and the day of… Elia and her children's death. The Sacking of King's Landing."

Roxas felt a pang of remorse coupled with momentary anger at the mention of the Sack. There was the ringing sound of anguish and cries of sorrow coming in and out of his ears.

"Yeah…" Roxas said slowly. "Ned only brought up that was the last day Ventus was seen. He disappeared after that day."

"That's to be expected." Varys said wistfully. "Are you aware as to why?"

Roxas shook his head in the negative.

Varys let out a sigh. "It was a dreadful day. So much death for nothing more then the sake of ensuring loyalty. Tywin Lannister's mad dog Gregor Clegane was responsible for the death of princess Elia and her children. Something that was used to appease Robert."

Roxas froze slightly. "Why?"

"For ensuring loyalty." Varys shrugged. "It was Tywin's goal."

"And did Tywin issue the order for the death of the princess?" Roxas asked with a sharp edge to his voice.

"To my knowledge, it was not his intention for their demise. Only wanting to hold them captive to reign in the remaining loyalists before having Elia abdicate her childrens' claim to the Iron Throne. After that, they would've been sent back to Dorne."

Roxas narrowed his eyes on that. He felt there might be more to what Varys was saying. If he were to have the chance, he'd want to talk to Tywin on the matter. Then there was the matter of Elia and her children. Something felt off about all this.

"And yet they were killed."

"And yet they were killed." Echoed the Spider.

Wanting to rid himself of the present feeling inside of him, Roxas went back to the earlier topic. "What were your impressions of Ventus?"

"Bright lad, loyal, cheerful, wearing his heart on his sleeves as it were." Varys said with a slightly fond look. "Never seemed to hold any sort of ill intentions towards anyone he met. Very polite and heroic, especially for his grand debut in protecting Princess Elia and her child Rhaenys. That certainly endeared him to the Martell's."

"Yeah, I could tell."

Varys gave the young lad another analytical look as the boy seems rather ignorant of his father. There were things he left out when informing the young Keybearer of his thoughts on his father, but Roxas didn't need to know any of that. And if the lad in front of him was very much like Ventus, then his opinions will relatively be the same. Perhaps even improve in time.

"There is something I have always wanted to know, Roxas." Varys spoke up, making the young man look to him. "Your… magic."

Roxas tilted his head, put off by the change of tone.

"What about it?"

Varys didn't reply straight away, finding himself at a momentary loss for words as his expression displayed one of great contemplation.

"I originally thought all magic was relatively… bad. But later, I thought otherwise as magic wasn't really good or bad, white or black. It's mostly grey."

"Grey? Whatever for?"

"I consider it grey as it can go brighter or darker depending on the one using the magic and of their intentions."

Thinking about it, Roxas realized Varys was right as he remembered something.

It was one of the lessons he learned when he interacted with Sypha back in Wallachia. She stated this as such with using Alucard as an example. The dhampir was a really good man, yet he had used several spells that were considered dark in nature by any observer; such as his Hellfire spell along with his wolf transformation he saw later on. And there could be an evil magic user who could be using spells considered light in nature for ill intentions.

"What does that mean?" Roxas asked. He was familiar with the concept of those who abuse magic but that's usually the more nefarious enemies he's encountered in his life.

"Let's just say that in my life and experiences, magic hasn't done me any favors." Varys said enigmatically. "All you need to know is that it warms my heart knowing a lad such as yourself would use magic for a purpose greater than himself."

Varys removed one of his hands from his sleeves and placed a small pat on Roxas's shoulder with a small nod before walking off.

Roxas merely looked onto the retreating Spider as the man had other matters to attend to.

With that out of the way, Roxas decided to head towards the Tower of the Hand and inform Ned on several matters; which he hoped will put them in a better mood.

-End Chapter-

AN:

Stressful times are upon us all and we are all sick and tired of it. Hopefully things will be better, but then again we are all knowing this constantly on the wishful ambition.

FMW: I think we can all unanimously agree 2020 fucking sucks, can suck a dick and hurry up and go die in a ditch.

Jeb: Agreed. Anywho, we get some more interactions with several more people here and a surprise visit to the Iron Bank. Thought it would be good to have the infamous Braavosi bank make a branch in Westeros as it would make better business. Just curious as to why no one has really done that in their stories from what I've read.

FMW: There is so much crazy shit I wish we can talk about right now but good things come in good time cause the twists and turns to come are gonna be wild.

Jeb: I'm in the same boat as we'll be saving more for later.

Anyways, be sure to review this story guys! Would like the criticisms. Please and thank you!

R&R