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"Speech"

'Thoughts'

Writing/Singing

"Foreign Language/Flashback"

-Scene Shift-

Chapter 25: Orphans and Bastards

Oberyn Martell was nursing his hand, wincing as he gave his sparring partner a small grin.

"Quite an arm you have there." Oberyn stated.

"Thanks."

"And I thought Ventus was a tough one to deal with." The Red Viper said, shaking his hand as the pain slowly subsided. "I figure you're probably stronger than your father when I met him."

"Er… yeah, sure."

Roxas really needed to keep track of the whole father business by this point. Becoming second nature, if you will.

Oberyn regarded the young lad with an analytical eye, noting the lack of a response pertaining to his father. But he had heard from some passing servants and some Stark men that the Keybearer was an orphan, never knowing who his parents were. That was presumably the case, but there was a little part of him which said otherwise. Yet the Viper chose not to dig too deep into the subject for the time being.

"Let us rest then, Roxas." Oberyn suggested. "Or mayhaps I should. I could only take a beating so much until I begin to grow bored of it."

At that comment, Roxas couldn't help but grin cheekily at the Dornish prince. "Ah what's the matter, Oby? Tired of losing all the time?"

Oberyn snorted. "You say that now. But soon, I shall be showing you why I'm the greatest warrior in all of Dorne."

"And while you do that, I'll continue to be the greatest warrior in Westeros." Roxas boasted jokingly.

"We'll see about that."

Off to the side, a number of onlookers were taking a little break from observing the training session. More so now that it's practically coming to an end for the day.

Princess Arianne, Princess Myrcella and Sansa were sitting by a table -with the direwolf, Lady, lying nearby- as the occupants were having a light tea session. Enjoying the refreshing brew while snacking on some small sandwiches and lemon cakes as they had their little form of entertainment. Switching from observing the training session to some mild gossip and conversations.

Not far away, Cloud was observing the two, leaning against a pillar with his arms crossed. His bangs shifted slightly in front of his eyes with him blowing them out of the way. There was a brief chirp before he felt him settle atop his head.

His pitch black feathered Chocobo was nestled comfortably atop his head, watching the sparring session before it.

Beside the blond swordsman was Tyene, Arya, her faithful Direwolf Nymeria and in the hands of the young She-wolf was a gold feathered Chocobo nestled in her arms.

ChoCho was the name of Roxas's Chocobo while he opted to name his own Jojo.

ChoCho and Jojo... they were not very creative names, but what could Roxas and Cloud do? Some of the girls tried giving them other names, but the chocobo chicks wouldn't accept anything else already liking the name their respective "father's" gave them.

ChoCho and Jojo the Chocobos. From what the Moogle Moo had told them, they were both male meaning that by this point they had probably considered one another brothers.

Roxas's Chocobo looked up at Arya for a brief moment, pecking her lightly in an affectionate manner. In response, Arya smiled at and rubbed her cheek against ChoCho's head making the little bird chirp happily.

There was an expectant huff that came out from Nymeria who was now getting closer to Arya's size as the days went on.

"Oh, don't think I could forget about you, ya big baby." Arya stated, scratching behind the ear of her companion with Nymeria leaning and showing a dopey face of enjoyment.

There was quite the interesting reaction when seeing the Chocobo chicks for the first time, more so once they were born. Now while no one, other than Cloud, saw Jojo's birth, Arya was present for ChoCho's.

-Flashback-

Roxas was spending the day in his room for the most part, with multiple candles specially made by Moo to ward off the godforsaken stench of Kings Landing.

With him was Arya who was laying upon his bed with Nymeria resting over her belly, the Stark girl being completely unbothered by the weight of her Direwolf.

Prior to their arrival, Roxas had tried to contact Alucard, Trevor and Sypha respectively through his Carpathian Mirror. And once again, the same results occurred. Yet there seemed to be a different case this time around as the image seemed to be blurry at best instead of outright black. But before he could try to see what the reason was for this, let alone deciding to take a Corridor of Darkness to just visit the three Wallacians, Arya came rapping at his bedroom door.

And while Arya came on by, because she was mostly bored in her quarters, she honestly didn't have anything in mind to entertain herself with Roxas. While training and/or exploring would be their usual way of spending time together, today she for once wasn't really feeling up for it. So for the time being, merely resting on the Nobody's bed was good enough for her.

Looking off to the side, she took notice of the Keybearer's current activity.

"Say Roxas."

"Hmmm?" He turned the page on the book he was currently reading.

"What are you reading?"

"It's a journal about the Keyblade."

This quickly piqued the young She-wolf's interest. "Really?"

"Yeah."

"Ah… What does it say?"

Roxas shrugged. "Capabilities, it's stories, previous users and such. This journal has been passed down from welder to wielder with them documenting their experiences and what they learned during their time as Keyblade Masters."

"Does it talk about anything else?"

"A lot really." Roxas said. "Just trying to make sense of it is all."

"Like what?"

Roxas hummed aloud, going back to some of the prior pages. "I know you won't be exactly interested in the 'boring' stuff, but I can say some of the past owners documented their fighting styles."

Before the young She-wolf could question him about this, there was this faint crackling sound in the air. It wasn't entirely noticeable at first, until it started to grow a little louder.

"What's that sound?"

Roxas soon picked up on the sound before realization came. "The egg!"

Leaving his guest behind, Roxas went to the far off area of the room where the gold Chocobo egg was laid in a makeshift nest composed of a blanket. A ray of light shined down upon the egg to reveal cracks started forming. Coming up to it, No. XIII saw the avian vessel start wobbling from side to side.

Arya joined him as well, with Nymeria going up on her hind legs and resting the front on the table.

The trio stared at the shaking egg with baited breath, anticipating the egg to hatch and reveal the apparent bird creature that resided within.

After several more moments, the egg stopped shaking. Confused on what's going on, Roxas drew in close. This proved to be a little mistake when he jumped in surprise when the egg shell practically exploded with small shards hitting him in the face.

"Pwii!

Roxas and Arya saw a small, lightly golden feathered bird as it chirped happily. It soon opened its eyes to reveal a nice blue as they landed on Roxas. Mustering a lot of strength into it's tiny wings, fluttered joyfully at seeing it's "parent" for the first time. Jumping out of the remains of its egg, it surprisingly got up high and fluttered it's wings more to settle into Roxas' blond locks at the top of his head, squirming around and making itself comfortable there.

"It's really cute, Roxas!" Arya said, smiling. "It must think of you as its mother."

The little bird began burying its face atop Roxas's head into his blond hair making Roxas grin slightly as it chirped happily.

"Or father."

Arya cooed, holding up a finger at the little avian creature. She did it delicately so she wouldn't spook the infant Chocobo. Unlike some animals Arya seen in the past, who were clueless to the world around them, the little bird seemed a bit more intelligent than any other bird she'd previously interacted with. More so as it was freshly born.

That was the case when it turned its attention to her. Eying the finger, the bird briefly nipped it with it's small beak before letting Arya come closer to it. Seeing the opportunity, Arya gently brushed the finger on top of it's head, causing it to chirp happily.

"If I remember what Maester Luwin told me about certain animal behavior, It's imprinting on you." Arya said. "Just like Nymeria and her siblings did with my family."

Nymeria barked out in confirmation, licking Arya's face with the she-wolf grinning at her.

The little bird let out one last happy "Pwii" before nestling itself comfortably atop Roxas' head and appearing to fall asleep.

"Well that's not gonna be uncomfortable." Roxas stated with slight amusement.

"What're you gonna call it?" Arya inquired, looking to Roxas curiously.

The Greater Nobody crossed his arms, looking up at the Chocobo atop his head.

"I… Don't know exactly." Roxas admitted.

"Can I name him… or her?" Arya asked. "Is it a boy or a girl?"

"I'll ask Moo when I see him next time." Roxas stated, rubbing his chin. "Maybe… ChoCho."

Arya gave him a flat look. "ChoCho? Didn't you tell me these guys are called Chocobos?"

"What?" Roxas said defensively. "What have you got against that name?"

"That's like me gettin Nymeria, a Direwolf and calling her Wolf." Arya said, gesturing to Nymeria.

The conversation the two were having momentarily made the little Chocobo awaken, making it flutter its wings and let out chirps.

"Well then why don't we ask our new friend right now?" Roxas challenged, reaching up to grab the little bird in his hands as gently as he could.

Holding it out before him, the Chocobo "pwii'd" happily at the sight of its 'father'.

Roxas smiled at it. "Hey there little guy. We're trying to figure out a name for you."

The Chocobo stopped in its chirping and stared curiously at Roxas.

"I figured ChoCho would be a good name for you." Roxas said. "What do you think?"

The Chocobo didn't respond right away before it began fluttering its wings in a happy jig.

Roxas grinned, looking to Arya who only huffed challengingly.

"Or~~" Arya caught the attention of the Chocobo. "We could go with my name and call you… Meraxes."

The flat look she received from No. XIII made her flinch slightly.

"What?" Arya was now the defensive one.

"You are so predictable sometimes, you know that?"

Arya huffed again. "Well let's see how-"

"Pwii."

Both looked down at the baby bird who had apparently puffed its chest and feathers out, appearing to deny Arya's name.

Seeing this, Roxas felt himself smiling triumphantly. "ChoCho it is."

The newly named ChoCho preened happily making Arya pout in defeat.

-Flashback End-

Reactions upon seeing the Chocobo's were quite varied.

Like Arya, Arianne, Myrcella and Sansa thought the infant Chocobos were outright adorable as they wanted to interact with them. Obara, Nymeria and Tyene held off on their reservation, despite them sharing similar responses. Oberyn and Ellaria were indifferent, but were interested when told of their capabilities on top of their age progression. Like the Dornish couple, Ned was the same but was already weary on what would occur, given what he remembered of his brief conversation with Cloud prior to reaching the capital.

Now as for others… well…

Tommen thought the Chocobos were very interesting, given he never saw such an avian creature like them before. When Oberyn saw the young prince's reaction, the Dornishman commented the boy started acting like a novice Maester.

Speaking of Maester, when Pycelle first laid his eyes on the gold and black featured creatures and questioning about them. He occasionally muttered something akin to dragons and nothing more.

Cersei seemed hesitant to approach it yet since ChoCho was in the hands of Roxas she was more open to at least being close to it. More so when Myrcella egged her on when wanting to show her mother the interesting bird. That wouldn't be the case with Jojo as the queen didn't want to be close to the Radiant Garden swordsman.

Joffrey didn't think highly of the Chocobos, calling them overstuffed feather freaks just waiting their turn to be cooked and eaten. He got a face full of angry flapping feathers and several staines upon his clothes by said "freaks".

Robert was honestly more questionable than everyone else. Why? Because he honestly had the hardest time picturing anyone -in general- riding a giant bird like a horse. Not like a dragon, but a horse. And yes the black one -Jojo- can fly once mature enough, but the previous knowledge just cemented the ridiculous image into his head.

But the detail of Chocobos being used like war horses, being armored up and equipped for battle, did loosen the idea a little in his head. Then again, Robert enjoyed battle above all else… besides women and wine, of course.

Upon seeing that the spar was apparently over, ChoCho flapped its wings and flew over to his father and nestled himself back atop Roxas's head.

"Are you not uncomfortable with him upon your head, Roxas?" Oberyn inquired, seeing ChoCho happily 'Pwii' on his "father's" head.

"I'm pretty much fine." Was Roxas' response, bringing his hand up to his head in order to gently pet ChoCho. "It won't be long, actually, when I can't keep the little guy up there."

"Right. Them growing to the size of your head in a matter of days. The weight alone would break your neck, let alone strain it considerably."

"Maybe."

"Maybe? More like actuality." Cloud jotted in, still leaning against the pillar with Jojo flapping his wings a little on his "father's" head. "Don't let me remind you of that, Roxas."

"I know." Said the Nobody. "It's just gonna be hard to get ChoCho to stop nesting and napping up on my head."

"He sure does love it there." Oberyn said. "Tell me, are they at least potty trained?"

"Yes." Roxas and Cloud said in sync.

Both blondes did not want to get soiled at all while their respective Chocobos rested on their heads. There was one instance where it came close, which almost gave them an utter panic and heart attack at once.

"How in the world did you accomplish that?" Oberyn asked in genuine curiosity.

"They're smarter than they look." Cloud remarked, Jojo chirping in agreement.

Oberyn eyed the birds with clear intrigue before shrugging and moving to take care of his hand that was slightly stinging still.

"Want some help with that?" Roxas offered.

Oberyn waved off the Keybearer. "I think I'll manage. Never really relied on magic. Why stop now. Besides, it's just a simple sprain. It'll go away later."

Roxas simply accepted the answer and walked over to a table that had a bowl of food set up. ChoCho let out a happy chirp, jumping from Roxas's head and diving headfirst into the bowl. It wasn't long before Jojo followed suit and joined his brother in the meal.

Despite their small statures, they were sure gluttonous. Eating twice their body weight all in one go.

It was quite the sight for the two blonds the other day to see their two Chocobos devour the three sets of chicken that was set up for them and the Stark household. They were also glad that the Chocobos had the apparent wherewithal to be self cleaning as they constantly fluttered their feathers to get the grime off of them or just dove into water to do so.

One can only imagine how things will go as they keep growing larger and larger until reaching their peak.

"I am curious." Oberyn looked to Cloud who had sat down before his Chocobo, idly watching the little bird stuff his face. "Where was it that you learned to fight so adaptly with your fists in that manner?"

Cloud didn't respond at first, opting to help Jojo by tilting his head up to swallow a particularly large piece of chicken in its mouth. Said black avian gobbled it up before ducking it's head into a small water bowl to help wash the piece of meat down.

"Like I told you before, from a friend."

"This must be some friend, I take it."

Cloud kept his gaze firmly on Jojo, eyes having a far off gaze. "Yeah, she is."

"Oh~ She must be very important then."

Cloud grunted in annoyance, clearing showing he did not wish to discuss this matter with a man who's libido exceeds that of half this country.

"She'd kick your ass from here to the moon if you'd try anything. I literally mean that in every meaning of that statement."

This did little to detract Oberyn's interests. "My friend, I have no intention of pursuing a lady who has taught you to fight in that regard. Though for a challenge…"

"Oby, why?" Roxas asked in an exasperated tone.

The Red Viper chuckled loudly at the younger blonds question. "Your father had the same reaction most of the time."

"Yeah, I can see why." Roxas said in a flat tone.

"I mean, I found it quite interesting your father pretty much had no challenge of women vying for him." The Dornishman then adopted a thoughtful pose. "Though I believe it was actually the other way around. The women feeling challenged to earn his attention… among other things."

The mischievous look Oberyn adopted made Roxas squirm slightly. "I can imagine you must hold some of his own passive talents as well in attracting women."

This merely earned a confused look from the Keybearer while Cloud let loose an exasperated groan. It wasn't entirely noticed, but Oberyn caught on.

"Oh~? Don't tell me you have such traits, Strife?"

What Oberyn got was an unexpected piece of food right to his face, which slid down his cheek.

"Hmph, good shot Jojo." Cloud said with an amused smirk. The little Chocobo preened with its chest puffed out in pride.

Oberyn heard his present family members all laughing aloud while wiping his face clean. He gave Jojo a flat look with the bird ignoring him entirely, returning to his meal.

"Right~" Drawled out the Dornishman. "Well it seems I'm no longer wanted here." His faux-hurtful tone was heard, earning eyerolls from several others.

"Where ya gonna go, then?"

"I'll think of something, Roxas." Was all Oberyn said before leaving the training grounds.

Seeing the Viper off, the two blonde males watched the Chocobo chicks finish up the last of their meals. Slowly drifting to sleep as they were full. Cloud merely left Jojo in his place while Roxas gently picked ChoCho up and placed him on his head.

"Heading out." Cloud stated, not questioned.

"Yeah. Need to do the patrols for the day while picking up a few things."

The swordsman from Radiant Gardens nodded, seeing Roxas head on out, before taking his place at the nearby pillar. Keeping an eye on the sleeping black chocobo chick.

At this point, everyone went their separate ways for the time being. Sansa and Myrcella headed off to attend their lessons with the septas. Lady trotted along her human before glancing at her pack sister. The direwolf, Nymeria, glanced back before walking beside Arya, who went off to hopefully spend some time with her father. Arianne decided to visit the gardens. But before getting far, she shared a glance with her cousin, who went to follow Roxas again.

-Tobho Mott's Smithing Shop-

"Thanks again, Gendry." Roxas said, leaving the smith shop with ChoCho on his head. "Arya is gonna love these."

"Send her my regards." Gendry said cheerfully. "And it was a pleasure meeting you again, ChoCho."

ChoCho simply chirped back happily.

Pocketing his new items that he had received from the shop, Roxas waved goodbye to Gendry as he walked off with his friend going back into his master's store.

He opted to come alone this time as Arya was spending time with her father as a means of keeping him company during his duties as Hand.

And it was a good thing as Roxas wished to take care of something that he had noticed a while back that drew his attention.

At first he thought it was just a coincidence or his eyes playing tricks on him. It's not like he has not dealt with coincidences before.

However, after the third time he had spotted her Roxas was fairly certain the previous times he saw her were no longer chance sightings. Which now leads him to the current question on his mind.

Why was Tyene Sand following him?

She was always hiding behind a booth or sticking to discreet corridors in between buildings. All usually within his vicinity.

He always caught her out of the corner of his eye, fast walking from one cluster of people or booths whenever she could in the most inconspicuous way possible.

Well… inconspicuous to most people. Roxas was not exactly most people. And it wasn't just in his nature of being a Nobody.

During his first few weeks being with Organization XIII, Roxas was heavily trained in his observation skills to his surroundings.

Always make sure to take note of structures and functions which in turn allowed for a greater understanding of whichever world he visited.

There was also the part of keeping a keen awareness of his surroundings. Specifically if there was anybody that he either needed to pursue, Heartless nearby or in this case stalkers.

Case in point, Tyene stands trying to remain out of his sight by examining a pear. In his direction. There were some clothes hanging around to better obscure her but Roxas knew where she was now.

Deciding to confront her, in some manner, he rounded the corner and entered an alleyway before leaping up into the air. Latching his hand onto the edge of a nearby building, he looked down to see Tyene enter. She was suddenly confused as to where the Keybearer went off to, before realizing he attempted to lose her.

Dropping down behind her, the Dornishgirl let out an 'eep' of surprise and instinctively she pulled out a hidden knife underneath her clothes. She spun round in an attempt to embed it into whoever was foolish enough to attack her from behind only for her wrist to be grabbed by a leathery black glove.

Blinking, Tyene saw that her "attacker" was none other than Roxas who was giving her an unamused look. Eyes widening, she looked between the knife in her hand and the boy she had been pursuing.

Letting out a small nervous laugh, she felt the grip on her wrist loosen till it was let go with her immediately hiding her knife way. She was massaging her wrist a moment later, wincing at the strength Roxas possessed.

Composing herself, Tyene put up a smile. "Well, look who it is. Talk about a coincidence."

"What are you doing here, Tyene?" Roxas questioned.

"Just… seeing the capital." She said airily.

Roxas arched a brow with his expression showing he didn't really believe her. "By yourself?"

"I can take care of myself, thank you very much." Tyene stated in a huff, pulling out her knife.

Roxas can understand that, given their few spars together.

The Keybearer hadn't always had bouts with Arya, Cloud and Oberyn. In the past few days, he'd been sparring against some of the Sand Snakes. He surprisingly even had a little duel against Lewyn Martell, former member of the Kingsguard, along with his son Nymor. The former was a little challenging for the greater Nobody as he still held himself back, unlike his times against Cloud.

Anywho, Tyene was quite the fighter. Experienced enough in the training grounds, but not out in the field as it were.

When Tyene sheathed her knife, she heard Roxas speak. "Back to my earlier question. What are you doing here?"

"I told you-"

"I know what you said, Tyene, but that's not really it, isn't it?" He said unto her, who was a little sheepish. "Tell me I'm wrong?"

"...You're not wrong on that."

"Then what is it?"

"Can't a girl have an opportunity to spend time with a nice strong man, such as yourself?" Tyene remarked with her fluttering her eyes at him.

Roxas snorted in disbelief of her reason. "Only if said girl isn't sneaking around and not really confronting said man in the first place."

Tyene opened her mouth yet Roxas went on.

"And you had many opportunities to "spend time" with me as you just told me and yet I noticed that many stands and other crowds of people is your idea of doing such a matter."

The daughter of Oberyn Martell couldn't help but cringe at how easily she appeared to have been spotted by Roxas.

The man that she tailed after released a sigh a moment later. "You know what, forget it."

"Huh?"

Before she could get a proper response from him, Roxas leaped up into the air and bounced up the walls of the alleyway effortlessly prior to landing on the rooftop he grabbed onto before.

"Hey, wait up!"

Roxas disappeared from her view, making her give chase. Not wanting to lose him, she looked around her present surroundings and saw several crates stacked up onto each other. From there she noticed some wall notches that could give her a means to climb up to some degree. With a plan forming together, Tyene ran, jumped and kicked herself away from the tallest crate she could land on. Reaching out with all her might, she was barely able to grasp the wall notch before pulling herself up. From there she did all she could to climb up the wall before finally reaching the rooftop. Climbing herself up, she thought she could see Roxas nearby, only to find nothing but orange tiles and smoke stacks with the occasional bird here and there.

"Where did he go?" Tyene said to herself, stomping her foot on the rooftop in frustration. "Why must he be superhuman?"

"Hey, not bad." A familiar voice said from behind making her jolt. "That was some good quick thinking."

She turned round to see Roxas standing there with a small grin, arms crossed and ChoCho appearing completely unbothered by the earlier jumps and movements his 'father' had performed a few moments ago.

Gaping slightly at him, her mouth opened and closed several times before she had her cheeks puff out and she fell onto the orange tiled rooftop. Crossing her arms and legs, she grumbled at being unable to keep up to or compare to Roxas's abilities.

He couldn't deny that seeing her like this was sort of amusing.

"You seem dedicated to catching up with me, Tyene." Roxas pointed out, holding out his hand to pull her up.

"How can I even keep up what with your building size jumps you pull off so easily." Tyene complained as she accepted the hand and was brought back onto her feet.

Roxas chuckled at her annoyed expression at being bested so quickly. He wasn't sure about encouraging this but he figured he may as well try.

"You did good so far. If you keep practicing, pretty sure you'd be able to keep up with me."

Tyene attempted to play off the compliment yet a small blush found itself upon her cheeks with a small smile appearing on her face. "To tell you the truth, it was… my first time doing that."

"What?"

"Jumping up on roofs and all."

"Honestly would've thought you had."

Tyenes' expression changed, placed her hands on her hips. "What does that mean?"

"Eh… Thought that since you're Oberyn's daughter…"

"Ah~ That's how it is, then? Assuming that I'm clearly his daughter that I'd be all adventurous and the like?" She saw him about to speak, hoping to quickly apologize. "Well you'd be right."

Roxas let out a little sigh of frustration as the Dornish girl giggled a little.

"Mind you that even if I'm my father's daughter, I haven't had all of the opportunities he had to experience." Tyene then smiled. "And so far, it was a little exciting."

"Then expect that and more."

Tyene briefly wondered what he meant by that. It was soon answered as he walked away from her and started walking along the orange tiled rooftops.

"Hey, wait up!"

As the Sand Snake was catching up with the Keybearer, she was able to get a good look of her surroundings. Here she's having a different perspective of the capital. Not from the crowded streets down below or from the Red Keep's gates or from far away, but from a higher vantage point. Peeking from over the side, she could see small folk minding their own business with the occasional Gold Cloak passing by.

Eventually coming across a large gap, Roxas effortlessly leaped across it. Before he could continue, he heard Tyene call up to him from behind. "Hey, wait! Give me a moment!"

Looking back, Roxas saw Tyene moving back a bit before doing a dead sprint. At the edge, she jumped and was barely able to land onto the other side. She swung her arms a little in order to lean back up so she wouldn't fall.

Calming herself down, she looked at the blue eyed blond before her. "Can you please try not to get too far ahead next time?"

"No promises, Tyene."

Once again, Tyene puffed her cheeks out as she followed after him.

This occurred several times as the Sand Snake was "joining" Roxas in his patrol of the capital. The jumps across some gaps between buildings weren't all that bad for her to handle. She was starting to get the hang of it at this point.

"Easy now, Tyene."

"You worry too much, Roxas."

It was when Tyene jumped towards another rooftop, only for the tile her foot landed on shifted down. Eyes widening upon realizing what was about to happen, her body failed to react in time as she soon fell to the ground below.

"SHIT!"

She expected to land hard upon the ground, waiting for the surge of pain or worse yet it never came.

Instead, she felt herself jolt to a stop as a pair of strong arms were holding her up on her back and underneath her knees.

Slowly opening her eyes, she saw a set of concerned blue eyes staring at her.

"You alright Tyene?" Roxas asked.

It took her a moment to realize what had just occurred with a light blush dusting her cheeks with a coy smile appearing.

"Oh Roxas~" Tyene swooned jokingly (with some seriousness). "My Hero~~"

Feeling bold, she pecked the teen on the cheek feeling a sense of victory at the sight of his face reddening slightly. Her smile stretched a little as he stiffened soon after.

"Catching a maiden in a time of need." Tyene went on, hand up her forehead with one leg up and her dramatically throwing her head back.

Roxas found himself smiling slightly, shaking his head as his face went back to it's normal color. "Glad I can be of service, milady." He took her hand in his and bowed his head with Tyene laughing. "I have a feeling there won't be any dull moments with you."

"Is that a compliment?"

Roxas didn't know how to respond to that. All Tyene did in response was giggle. And as much as she'd like to stay in his arms in a bridal carry, she had him bring her down back onto the solid surface beneath them.

"Thanks anyways."

Looking back to where Tyene fell from, a frown marred his face. "Surprised no one has bothered to retile the buildings."

"Do you really expect that, Roxas?" She said rhetorically. "No one has even bothered to actually take care of the damn smell this city has."

"Good point." Roxas conceded, grimacing at the mention of the smell. "Glad this necklace works."

"Necklace?" Tyene repeated in confusion. "What necklace?"

Roxas reached beneath his shirt and fished out a small green pendant that had a radiant hue to it.

"This here helps with the smell of Kings Landing." Roxas stated. "Had it made a few days ago cause the stench of this place was really getting to me."

Tyene's eyes widened considerably, holding the pendant in her hand and leaning in close to get a better look at it. It looked like a plain emerald of some kind but there was some kind of symbol on its center.

"Where did you get this?" She asked in astonishment.

"It was made for me."

"You got this from that Moogle?"

He was about to respond with 'yes' before quickly realizing what she just said. "Where'd you hear that?"

She soon let out an 'Eh…' from her lips.

"You saw them at Mott's shop, didn't you?"

...

"So you have been following me since then, huh?" Roxas said, knowing this as fact rather than a question.

Her expression was sheepish. "...Yes."

He sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose. "I'd like to know why but I figure I'd get a headache out of it."

"Sorry." Tyene said earnestly.

What she got in response was ChoCho flapping off of Roxas' head and landing upon hers.

She was momentarily confused as to why the Chocobo flew upon her when…

*Peck*

"Ow!" Tyene exclaimed, rubbing her forehead more in disbelief then pain as ChoCho returned to his "father" and comfortably settled upon Roxas' head again.

Roxas grinned openly, reaching to rub ChoCho's head.

"Thanks for that, boy." Roxas praised. "Really cheered me up."

"Pwii!"

Tyene scrunched her face and mildly glared at the Chocobo chick. It only gave her a happy look which soon made her drop her irritated look.

"Wanna continue traveling by rooftop or…"

"I'd rather stay on the ground for now." She soon walked ahead with a small smile. "This time, I'm going first. After all, I can't count on you to wait."

Roxas reluctantly followed Tyene through the backstreets. She didn't get too far ahead from him, but occasionally looked back to see if he was still near her. Got to a point where they were almost side by side or just a foot behind her.

The Sand Snake did notice his attention was usually elsewhere, but that was expected with him wanting to take his patrol duties seriously. Doing his duty to help Renly Barathon and the City Watch in taking care of the unrest to solve some Heartless popping up here and there.

Speaking of Heartless, they had been starting to show up for several days now. A bit more frequent if one were honest. After learning a bit about them, Tyene was surprised they only showed up in small numbers in their groupings at a time instead of a large number of them. Especially with how bad this city is in passing years.

When asking about the matter of large groupings of Heartless, Roxas's expression was grim. He recalled the time back in Hollow Bastion/Radiant Garden when the army of Heartless was attacking the central city and how every defender of that World fought valiantly to halt their advance.

All he told her was that should a swarm or army of Heartless attack this city, there would be a likely chance of no one getting out of here alive. Even with somebody as powerful as Roxas and Cloud hanging around.

She couldn't deny the shiver down her spine as the look and tone that Roxas conveyed was enough for her to drop the matter for the time being.

It was something to look into as to why they only showed up the way that they were. Not that anyone was really complaining about it. No one wants to be overwhelmed for the time being.

"Hey, Roxas!'

Both the Keybearer and Sand Snake looked over to the source. There they saw a little boy waving at him.

"Oh, hello there." Said the Nobody, who waved back.

"You know him?" Tyene questioned.

"Somewhat." The boy came up to Roxas, who spoke to him. "Is there something the matters, George?"

"Not really. Just some of the others were wondering when you'd show up again."

"Well why not now?"

George smiled, understanding the meaning of it. The young boy soon took notice of the young woman beside the Keybearer. "Who's she?"

"A tag along." Answered Roxas, earning a small pout from Tyene. "You go on ahead. I'll see ya and the others soon."

"Okay~"

When George headed off, Tyene asked the obvious question. "How is it you know him?"

"And here I thought you were knowing a lot of what I was doing, stalker." Roxas said playfully a little when emphasising 'stalker'.

"I wasn't following you all the time, you know."

"Figured."

"Back to my question. How is it you know him?"

"George? He's a resident at one of the orphanages."

"And?"

"And… I came across it while on patrol. Helped spend time with the kids there, even the matron who runs the place."

Tyene smiled at that. "That sounds nice of you to do."

"Thanks. I'd ask if you'd wanna come, but…"

"You'd already know my response."

"Something like that."

Taking the lead this time, Roxas moved along with Tyene following after him. It wouldn't be long before they came across the entrance of the many orphanages this city had to sadly offer.

Coming through the door, the two were soon greeted with a number of orphans. They seemed to brighten up more upon seeing the Keybearer.

"Roxas!" They coursed, coming up to him.

"Hey guys. What have you been up to?"

"Nothing much." Said one of the orphans.

"Just attending lessons." Said another.

"Mostly playing, really." Spoke a third child.

Roxas nodded. "And have you still been good to Melinda?"

"Why wouldn't we?"

"She's great."

Once more, Roxas nodded. "Do you know where she's at?"

"She's out." Spoke an orphan, who appeared older than most of the present children. "Said she'll be back soon. Needed to take care of something."

"Is it money issues?" Roxas inquired. "I thought the amount I gave last time was-"

"It's not that. Just something else. Didn't say anything else."

Roxas nodded as the orphans scampered off to do their own thing. When looking at Tyene, he saw the look on her face.

"What?"

She gave him a knowing smile. "Nothing. Just didn't expect this out of you. It's really wonderful."

Roxas let out a small bashful laugh, rubbing the back of his head with ChoCho chirping happily.

"Just… wanted to help is all."

"Come on." Roxas gestured with the two following after George who ran ahead of them.

Heading off to the back, the pair saw many of the children playing about. Hardly having little to no care of the problems outside of their home.

Upon gazing at the varying groups, his eyes landed on a particular trio. For the briefest of moments, their forms were replaced with Sora, Kairi and Riku of their younger years.

When looking away from them, Roxas' gaze landed on another trio as they were sitting on a ledge nearby. And like before their forms were replaced. This time, it was with himself, Axel… and…

"Xion…" Roxas said in a soft voice.

"Xion? Who's that?" Tyene inquired before noticing the sudden chance of mood in the Keybearer's features. "Is something wrong?"

"It's nothing."

"...This Xion… is she your friend… or something?"

"An old friend."

"Is she someone special?"

"Pretty much."

"Like…"

"One of my first friends." Roxas stated. "One of my best friends."

"...I see." Tyene bit her lip, feeling as though she was going to regret this next question. "What… what happened to her?"

ChoCho chirped softly, rubbing its forehead up against his 'fathers', picking up on the somber mood he was giving off.

Roxas smiled in appreciation, reaching up to rub ChoCho's head.

"She's not here anymore." Roxas stated. "She died saving me."

Tyene saw his face was stoic but his eyes… his eyes were glassy with a look of profound sorrow. She hesitated before placing a hand upon his arm.

He tilted his head in her direction with the young Sand Snake, seeing her worried face made him smile slightly.

"Oh, Roxas," said a voice from behind, "good to see you again."

The pair turned around to see an elderly woman as she wore a soft smile on her face.

"Hey, Melinda." Greeted the Nobody. "Having a good day?"

"Why wouldn't I?" Melinda asked with a happy smile. "The kids favorite hero has come to visit."

She then noticed Roxas wasn't alone. There was also a bird of some kind atop his head that was looking around the area with curiosity.

"And who is this?" Melinda asked kindly.

Blinking, Tyene moved her hand back and gave the caretaker a smile. "Tyene Sand."

The elder lady nodded with a small bow. "Melinda Waters, at your service."

Seeing as the children were getting restless now, Roxas quickly excused himself in order to help entertain them. Once he was away, Tyene decided to lightly interrogate Melinda on a few things out of utter curiosity.

"How long have you been a matron here?"

"Nearly a decade." Was Melinda's response. "Used to be a septa in my younger years before becoming a governess for House Darke of the Crownlands."

"Why'd you decide to become a matron here?"

"Felt like it, if I were being honest. Hardly had anything to do when I retired from being a governess. Had thought of going back to being a septa again, only to decide to help the less fortunate here in the capital."

Tyene nodded in understanding. "I briefly heard Roxas saying there were some money issues or something?"

"You heard that?" Melinda said, releasing a sigh soon after. "Well you weren't wrong on that one."

"What was it?"

"Had a steady flow of coin coming towards not just this orphanage but several others throughout this city. But that amount started to decline when Jon Arryn passed away."

"And the reason behind that is…"

"Lord Arryn did all that he could to help support the orphanages. Putting some extra coin into what he distributed out of his own coffers. Apparently it was quite a lot. And it showed once he passed on from this world."

"Why'd he do that?"

"He wouldn't say after he first visited each and every one some time ago. Being a bit more insistent on the amount given to us to keep the orphans taken care of."

Tyene narrowed her eyes on this, quite curious as to why the late Lord of the Vale was doing this. Something to fully question for another time.

"So about my question earlier…"

"Oh right. Roxas." Melinda smiled warmly at that. "When the young lad heard of the problem, he gave me a good amount of coin to help take care of this place before saying he'll bring this up with the new Hand of the King."

"And?"

"He'd kept his word. Right now the flow of coins has come back to the regular amount. Checked so myself with the other orphanage matrons."

Once again, Tyene nodded and was a bit more happy to hear of Roxas' good deed to this place and the other orphanages.

He wasn't a glory hogging warrior like so many that boasted across Westeros. Honestly a rarity these days.

For a while, Tyene and Roxas spent time at the orphanage as they entertained the children there as best as they could. While the Sand Snake decided to perform some tricks, like knife juggling to handstands, Roxas performed a little magic show. Even she was entertained by the spectacle.

Eventually the two had to leave. Saying their goodbyes, they departed the orphanage with many of its occupants waving at their departing forms.

"That was quite the nice, little experience." Tyene admitted.

"Of course it was." Roxas said with a smile.

"Had thought the orphanages here at King's Landing were really bad."

This quickly drew in Roxas' curiosity. "How so?"

"Complete dung heaps, if you were wondering. Not enough coin sent to the orphanage, not enough workers to help take care of the children, so on and so forth."

"Who brought up this idea?"

"Almost everybody." Tyene went on to explain as they were walking near the public docks, where much cargo was being delivered and received. "As you can see, this city is very overcrowded. Not enough good housing, so the majority of the small folk have to live outside of the city gates. And don't get me started on-"

"Good Ser! I have come to challenge you once again!"

Both Tyene and Roxas turned to see a middle-aged man with black hair, blue eyes wearing primarily blue garments with a large shield upon his back.

"Pwii?" ChoCho chirped out, tilting his head in confusion in the confines of Roxas' hair.

"En Garde, I say. Victory will be mine this time." The man boisterously proclaimed, hands upon his hips whilst puffing out his chest. "I've practiced with shield and sword. Many a headless training dummies and scarecrows throughout Westeros. Heed my warning and stand and fight."

Tyene blinked at the sight before her before turning her head towards the blue eyed blonde. "Er… Roxas?"

"You again?" Roxas finally recognized who this man was. "What are you doing all the way down here, Ronvid?"

"I have been traversing the kingdoms for many moons until I heard of the tourney for the new Hand."

"Okay… I can understand that, but-"

"And now it is time to fulfill my prior promises and vows." Ronvid declared. "And best you in single combat. You shall not get me again like last time."

"Again?" Tyene looked on in bewilderment.

Roxas simply rubbed the bridge of his nose. "Ronvid, I'm a bit busy right now and I have matters I gotta take care of."

"Oh Ho, I see the fair maiden you are with." Ronvid stated, bowing in Tyene's direction. "She is a lovely sight to see and one who should be honored for a man of your status to be fighting valiantly for her hand."

…

...

"...I don't know if you need some more proper lessons on this, Ronvid." Roxas said dryly, calling for Oblivion.

"Tis I who shall give thee the lesson here!" Ronvid said, drawing forth his shield and sword. "En Garde!"

Ronvid swung his sword horizontally with Roxas casually raising Oblivion to deflect it.

The man stumbled yet remained firm and went in for several more swings, with Roxas easily deflecting them all. However, he was not blind in the fact that there were some improvements to the man's fighting prowess

Mediocre as it may be.

With a mighty swing of his Keyblade, Roxas utterly shattered Ronvid's shield and swatted away his sword. A moment later, he "lightly" bonked the man atop his head with the bottom of his Keyblade.

Ronvid fell to the ground, clutching his head with one hand whilst holding up the other in surrender. "Enough! I yield!"

Tyene blinked at the sight before an expression which clearly screamed a mixture of utter confusion and "WTF" was formed on her features.

"Had enough?" Roxas asked expectantly, dismissing his Keyblade.

"Yes." Admitted Ronvid before looking up and giving Roxas a look of determination. "But next time…"

The Keybearer suppressed a sigh as he shook his head. "Look… Go back to Maid Bilberry and apologize for doing this sort of thing." He gestured to their current surroundings as their current bout caused quite the disturbance. From many small folk running away to some calling out for the City Watch. "As you can see…"

Ronvid nodded and accepted it fully. "Of course, I apologize. We shall meet again. Hopefully at the Hand's Tourney."

Standing up, Ronvid retrieved his sword and departed with his head held high and his hand over the new bruise growing atop it.

"What in the Seven Hells just happened?" Tyene inquired. "And what was he to you? Seems like you two knew each other."

"Just a man who is a lot more persistent then I thought he'd be." Roxas said with a shrug. "I encountered him up North near Karhold, though I didn't expect to see him all the way down here. It was during a mission to clean up some Heartless around that holdfast with Robb and Jon. He was… something…"

"What ya mean by that?"

"He wanted to become a great warrior-"

"Who doesn't these days."

Roxas ignored the abrupt interruption and continued. "And challenged me as part of him wanting to beat a hundred men in order to impress this Maid Bilberry."

Tyene hummed. "Sounds like something from a song or a tale."

"It does, doesn't it." Roxas smiled a little. "At least Ronvid put up a better fight than last time." Seeing her confused look, he answered the inquiry forming in her mind. "Only took one move from me till he surrendered the fight."

"That's quite sad, if you ask me."

As Tyene spoke, Roxas noticed two odd individuals amongst the crowd. For a moment he thought he was just seeing things.

Yet after spending so much time in Winterfell, he can clearly recognize the strange muttonchop tied under the chin style anywhere. Said man was guiding a dark cloaked woman through the crowd.

"What the-? What's Rodrik doing here?" Roxas said to himself in a low voice that Tyene picked up on.

Tyene looked over to where Roxas was staring then back at him. "Who?"

It was at this moment did Roxas get into action, running up a nearby wall in order to get onto the rooftops above. With a groan and muttering "Not again.", Tyene did her best to catch up to the Keybearer… after climbing up the same wall he ran up from.

Once again on the orange tiled rooftops, she spotted the black hooded teen and ran after him. She was careful in her sprint, not wanting to slip and fall from quite the height like last time. And by some miraculous feat, she didn't know if she was able to catch up to him in no time.

Then again, all the blood was rushing to her head and her lungs were burning… so there's that.

Tyene was panting, hands on her knees as she attempted to catch her breath.

"Could you…*GASP*... at least give me a… *PANT*... warning…" Tyene sucked in a large breath. "When you run off like that."

Roxas cringed sheepishly, scratching his cheek. "Sorry about that, Tyene. Didn't mean to leave you behind like that."

Tyene was still breathing hard but was slowly calming herself with a hand over her heart and wry look directed at the blond.

"Well… at the very least it's good practice for me." Tyene remarked. "I'll be able to keep up with you someday… way off in the future."

Roxas couldn't help but chuckle slightly. "That's one way of looking at it."

"What the hells were you doing anyway?" Tyene finally asked.

"I did not want to lose track of them."

"And who is it you were tracking down?"

Before Roxas could give a proper answer, he heard screams coming from down below.

Looking over at the latest commotion, the pair saw the creatures of darkness coming out from plumbs of blackened vapors. Many small folk quickly fled for their lives as the Heartless were surrounding Ser Rodrik and the dark cloaked woman.

"Heartless." Roxas said aloud, summoning Oathkeepr and Oblivion. "Stay back Tyene."

She wanted to deny such an order but…

The Sand Snake watched as Roxas leapt towards the nearest two Heartless which had swords for arms. With two quick parrys with counter slashes, he destroyed them both.

He pivoted upon landing on the ground, swinging Oathkeeper horizontally to eliminate another armored knight with Oblivion following after in a diagonal slash.

Roxas embedded Oblivion into the ground and used it as he propelled his body to jump over the next Knight to deliver a vertical killing blow to another Heartless. He spun Oblivion into a backhand grip and thrusted it back into the head of the Armored Knight behind him.

With a quick twirl, Roxas held Oblivion normally once more as he got into his usual combat stance.

"Rodrick, I hope you've got Ironwood Resin on your sword." Roxas said to the man behind him, the Cassel jolting at being called out.

Nonetheless, Winterfell's Master-at-Arms drew forth his blade and to Roxas's relief he saw the hue of the Ironwood resin emanating off of Rodrick's sword.

"Stay behind me, My Lady." Rodrick said to the cloaked woman next to him with her simply nodding and moving back.

"Get her out of here, Rodrick." Roxas instructed, holding back an Armored Knights sword arm and shoving it back. "I'll take care of these guys."

Rodrick simply nodded, having the woman hold his arm as he guided her away whilst Roxas threw Oathkeeper up into the air.

"Thunder!"

A small shower of lightning bolts rained down around him, taking out a few more Knights while paralyzing several more.

Dropping down into a crouch. Roxas clenched his Keyblades tightly before unleashing a spinning 360 slash with small energy blades flying out from the spin to strike down the paralyzed Heartless.

Seeing there wasn't much left, Roxas zipped about the air with extreme proficiency as he took out every last Heartless with dual slashes and strikes to make quick work of them.

In a matter of moments, the Heartless were cleared of the area, Roxas checking his surroundings. Seeing that no more were coming, his Keyblades flashed out from his hands.

When the fight was over, Tyene saw this as a chance to finally get off of the rooftop and onto the safe and sturdy ground.

As the Sand Snake was carefully "slithering" down from up high, Roxas placed his full attention at Winterfell's Master-at-Arms and the dark cloaked woman.

"Roxas, it's good to see you." Said the muttonchop Northerner, who was coming down from his state of surprise.

"Same to you." Was Roxas' response. "Call me curious, but why are you down here so far from Winterfell." He then placed more attention to the cloaked woman. "For that matter, who's-" His question quickly died before fully leaving his lips as the shall was brought down to reveal the woman's features. "Catelyn?"

"Hello, Roxas." Greeted the Lady of Winterfell.

Many thoughts quickly formed in his head. Most prominent were quite obvious with wondering why these two were in King's Landing all of a sudden. Shouldn't they be back in Winterfell?

Seeing the utter confused state the Keybearer currently bore, Ser Rodrik spoke up. "Now I know you have questions-"

"That's quite the understatement." Roxas interrupted flatly. "Why in the hell are you down here in Kings Landing of all places? And why are you hiding? Doesn't being the wife of the Hand mean you don't have to hide?"

"You forget where we are, Roxas." Catelyn pointed out. "The Den of vipers and snakes."

Tyene cleared her throat rather loudly making Catelyn and Rodrick turn to her as she gave them an unamused look.

"Tyene, you know what they mean." Roxas stated.

She only rolled her eyes while puffing her cheeks out with a huff.

"This place gives snakes a bad name." She muttered under her breath, crossing her arms and turning away.

Both Catelyn and Rodrick gave her and Roxas bewildered looks with the latter shaking his head.

"I'll explain later."

It was then when a couple of Gold Cloaks appeared on the scene. A little too late in Tyene's opinion, but hey Roxas made quick work.

"Your timing was quite impeccable." Drawled out the Sand Snake.

One of the Gold Cloaks mildly glared at the Dornish girl while the rest ignored the jab.

"Glad to see you were able to help take care of the Heartless, Prince Roxas." Said one of the City Watch members.

Ser Rodrik and Catelyn became very curious, wondering why Roxas was called "Prince".

"Can you just… stop calling me that?" Roxas asked in an exasperated manner. "Just cause I'm betrothed and all doesn't make it official."

Another question formed in the Northerner's minds, which they hoped would be answered soon.

Yet that wouldn't happen for a while as the Gold Cloaks soon placed their attention towards the new arrivals to King's Landing.

"Welcome to King's Landing, Lady Stark. Would you mind following us?"

This alarmed the group in full, wondering how they quickly recognized Catelyn.

With the attention heavily placed on her, Catelyn hesitantly spoke. "I would… but I've done nothing wrong."

For the quickest of moments, Roxas' earlier inquiries popped back up into his and Tyene's heads.

"We've been instructed to escort you into the city." Informed a City Watch member.

"Instructed?" Catelyn stressed out. "I don't know who's providing your instructions, but-"

This didn't sit well at all with Roxas, narrowing his eyes at the Gold Cloaks.

"Who instructed this?" He asked, stepping protectively in front of Catelyn. Said woman was a bit thankful for the act as the Gold Cloaks momentarily stepped back a little. "Well?"

Their answer would soon be answered as they were escorted to a particularly popular brothel.

-Baelish's Brothel-

Nine years… Nine years since she set foot inside of the Westerosi capital. Back then, no one really noticed or even cared for who she was. It was something Catelyn hoped to happen again.

After nearly two months worth of traveling, from Winterfell to White Harbor by horse and to King's Landing by sea, she kept her features hidden. Call it an extra precaution, but she needed to be sure no one would be the wiser on her coming down south after so many years.

Everything worked out so far, even when stepping off the Northerner ship. Both she and Ser Rodrik were ready to get into the next step of their plan… well more like Catelyn's.

For one part of her mind, she wanted to immediately head straight to the Red Keep, but chose against it and took up residence at a clean and comfortable inn near the Blackwater River. If things particularly go south, they could quickly hop aboard a ship going back to the North in order to be safe.

But things seemed to change once the Heartless popped up from out of nowhere and surrounded both her and Ser Rodrik.

The Master-at-Arms was ready to draw out his blade and coat the weapon with the Ironwood resin in order to combat the creatures of darkness. And if things went south, Catelyn would use the Valyrian steel dagger in her possession to help defend herself.

That wasn't the case when an all too familiar blue eyed blonde Keybearer appeared and took care of the Heartless threat.

She was truly thankful for his timely arrival until the Gold Cloaks appeared.

And now...

She was in a brothel.

Of all places to come first in King's Landing, this certainly was not on the top of her list. As a matter of fact, this wasn't on her list in the slightest!

It was utterly embarrassing for the Lady of Winterfell. She did not want to enter such an establishment in the first place. Where so many whores were performing their practices for hours on end and their screams and yells could be heard along with their partners groaning and moaning.

Their sounds were poison to her ears. Let alone the sights of such debauchery!

Upon entering the room that she, Rodrick and Roxas were being guided to she spotted a familiar face from her past that she was certainly displeased in seeing.

"Cat." Petyr warmly greeted her… while he sat in between a pair of his brothel employees.

He quickly ushered them to leave with him gazing at her with a warm smile.

And what was the first thing Catelyn did?

"You little worm!"

Catelyn grabbed the nearest object within reaching distance and chucked it at Littlefinger, who quickly dodged the projectile. Luckily for him, it was a lightweight object or else it would've hurt severely if it was a heavy one.

Roxas blinked at her being so aggressive so suddenly. Then again, Petyr never really sat well with him since he had first met him. So this was cathartic to say the least.

Oh if only there was more fuel to add to Catelyn's anger right now.

"You take me for some hack-alley Sally you can drag into a-"

And low and behold, more fuel just appeared and in the form of several brothel girls strolling into Petyr's office, bare breasted for all to see.

Upon seeing the growing anger rolling off of Catlyn, Petyr practically hissed and snapped at his employees; shooing them away. Getting the message, they went back whence they came…

Well not before giving a flirtatious wink and smile at Roxas, who ignored it as he was more focused at the spectacle before him.

Seeing the brothel girls were gone, Petyr could practically hold up his hands in forgiveness. "I meant no disrespect, to you of all people."

This didn't settle Catelyn down at all. "How dare you bring me here!" She hissed. "Have you lost your mind?"

"No one will come looking for you here. Isn't that what you would have wanted?" Questioned the Master of Coin. "I'm truly sorry about the locale."

It was at this point did Roxas voice an inquiry. "How did you know Catelyn and Rodrik were coming to King's Landing? I didn't even know of that at all."

"Well my boy, you specialize in hunting down and eliminating monsters." Petyr remarked with a sly grin that made Roxas glare at him. "Where like our friend here, I specialize in information."

Looking behind them where Baelish gestured to, the trio saw Varys appear from the few doorways into Petyr's office.

Stepping in, the Master of Whispers greeted the Lady of Winterfell. "Lady Stark."

"Lord Varys." Catelyn said evenly.

After the greeting, both Roxas and Varys locked eyes, the latter of whom gave the boy a polite smile.

"Another day saved, Roxas." The Master Of Whisperers commented. "The people of King's Landing, nay, Westeros, should be so fortunate as to have a brave warrior and protector such as yourself."

He opted to remain silent for the time being, only nodding his head with Varys turning his attention back to Catelyn.

"To see you again after so many years is a blessing." Varys said gently, right before grasping Catelyn's bandaged hands. "Your poor, delicate hands."

Catlyn pulled back her hands from the sudden act, guarding herself in the process. This did make Roxas wonder what went on with Catelyn since he saw her last.

"How did you know I was coming?" Catelyn repeated Roxas' earlier question.

"Knowledge is my trade, my lady." Varys soon huffed a little. "Did you bring the dagger with you, by any chance?"

Catelyn and Rodrik shared a look while Roxas formed a curious one as to what Varys was referring to.

"My little birds are everywhere… even in the North." Revealed the Spider. "They whisper to me the strangest stories."

Seeing as neither can't hide it any longer, Catelyn motioned Ser Rodrik to reveal the Valyrian Catspaw dagger to Varys. Once handing it over, the bald man inspected the ornate dagger; more so once drawing the blade out of its sheath.

"Valyrian steel." Varys carefully handled the weapon with utmost care. "Nothing holds an edge like it. And such sweet balance to it."

Upon seeing the weapon, Roxas had several questions quickly forming in his head. Turning to Ser Rodrik, the Keybearer asked the obvious one. "Mind telling me what's going on? I don't like being left in the dark here."

Both Catelyn and Rodrik shared a look, no doubt worried they'll witness Roxas' reaction as to what occurred back in Winterfell. But the blue eyed blonde deserved to know.

"What do you know of Bran's condition?" Rodrik asked.

"All I know he's fine and well back home. Walking and playing like the fall at the Broken Tower never really happened."

Releasing a troubled sigh of frustration, the Master-at-Arms finally told the Keybearer the bad news to it all. "Prior to his awakening, Bran was almost killed by an assassin in the dead of night if it weren't for Lady Catelyn's interference and Bran's direwolf, Summer, killing the man."

…..

…..

…..

"WHAT!?"

The occupants within the room flinched at his rather loud outburst with Varys picking his ear slightly.

"When the hell did this happen?" Roxas asked in complete seriousness. Looks like he's gonna need to pay Winterfell a visit.

"We wished to come here discreetly." Rodrick stated, eyeing the two other men in the room distrustfully. "It appears we were unsuccessful."

Lady Stark however did not wish to dwell on this matter.

"Do you know whose dagger this is?" Catelyn asked, no doubt wanting to get on with this.

Varys, for once, actually looked sheepish and a little embarrassed. "I must admit, I do not."

This drew out quite the chuckle from Littlefinger, drawing in the attention of everyone present. "Well, well, this is an historic day. Something you don't know that I do." With everyone waiting in utter anticipation, Baelish revealed the information. "There's only one dagger like this in all of the Seven Kingdoms… It's mine."

"Yours?" Chorused Roxas and Catelyn, the latter having her anger quickly rising.

But that rising anger was quickly quenched upon what Petyr said next. "At least it was, until the tournament on Prince Joffrey's last nameday. I bet on Ser Jamie in the jousting, as any sane man would. When the Knight of the Flowers -Ser Loras Tyrell- unseated him, many of us became a trifle poorer. Ser Jamie lost a hundred gold dragons, the queen lost an emerald pendant, and I lost this dagger. While her grace got her emerald back, the winner kept the rest."

"To whom? Who did you lose the dagger to?"

Petyr smiled a little while answering Catelyn's demanding question. "Tyrion Lannister, the Imp."

"Hold on a second." Roxas piped up, glaring at Petyr. "What are you playing at here?"

"I beg your pardon?" Baelish said in surprise.

Roxas however wasn't having it and got right in the Master of Coins face.

"You better be careful whose name you throw around like that, Baelish." Roxas said with a dangerous edge to his tone.

The glare he received was enough to make Petyr gulp nervously, adjusting his collar as he felt a shiver go down his spine.

"Wha-whatever do you mean?" Petyr asked with as calm a voice as he was able to muster.

Roxas kept up his intense gaze, stepping forward which only made Baelish step back.

"Don't try me, Petyr." Roxas said. "I don't do this whole 'Game' bullshit that I've heard about."

Varys had to raise his sleeves up to his mouth to hide the grin forming on his face at the sight of a thoroughly intimidated Master of Coin.

"Why would Tyrion want Bran dead in the first place? He'd never done anything wrong to him during his time in Winterfell."

"Why would you think I would insinuate that the one who wanted Brandon Stark dead to be Tyiron?" Baelish inquired only to jump back slightly at the sight of the tip of Oblivion appearing before his face.

"You just said that dagger belongs to Tyrion." Roxas pointed out. "You named him and all. There's a lot here that isn't exactly adding up if you don't mind me saying."

Petyr raised his hands as a gesture of surrender.

"That is all I know. Honest." Petyr defended, doing his best to back away from the Keyblade. "Whatever occurred after it came into the Imp's hands is beyond me."

Roxas kept the Keyblade pointed at Petyr's face before he dismissed it and turned his back upon the brothel owner.

"Watch what you say then, Baelish." Roxas said in a harsh tone. "Catelyn, Rodrick. If you need me for anything, don't hesitate to call for me."

"Where are you going?" Asked the Lady Stark.

"Getting Ned. He'll need to know you're here in King's Landing."

She couldn't really deny that this was why she had come in the first place. To see Ned and inform him on what had transpired back home.

With Roxas doing it, she feels a swell of relief upon hearing the boy's intentions of personally going to bring her husband here.

Roxas didn't get far after leaving Petyr's office when he almost bumped into the Sand Snake he's been with for the majority of the day so far.

"Tyene?" Roxas was glad to see her again. "Where'd you up and disappear to?"

"What, couldn't spot me that time?" Tyene teasingly asked.

"I was a bit distracted." Roxas said, gesturing his head towards where Catelyn and Ser Rodrik was.

"I saw that." Tyene said understandingly. "Besides, I wasn't far off. I just wanted to see what my mother and father were up to."

Roxas was a bit surprised by this news. "Oberyn and Ellaria are here?"

Tyene nodded with an exasperated sigh and cheeks turning red. "Yes… they are."

"Wh-what are they doing?" Roxas found himself asking.

Tyene stared at the Keybearer, a small smile appearing on her face.

"Nothing that would concern you, Roxas."

"If you say so." He said as they walked side by side

Tyene only hummed in content. "Where are you off to now?"

"The Red Keep. I need to fetch Ned and bring him back here."

"What for?"

"His wife is here."

"Ah, yes. Forgot about that for a moment." Tyene said. "Well, I'm returning to the Red Keep as well. I would enjoy an escort."

"Figured you'd be the kind who wouldn't need an escort." Roxas pointed out.

Tyene only laughed, wrapping an arm around Roxas's.

"I'm still a fair maiden, Roxas." Tyene said, batting her eyelashes again.

"Right, right." Roxas said.

"And if I said if I wasn't?"

"I'd still probably go with you."

"Then you are a greater degree more chivalrous than most other men." Tyene declared, leaning up to peck him on the cheek as she did earlier.

She grinned upon seeing a flustered expression upon the Keybearer's face, glad he looked away since hers had regained her crimson hue.

Shortly after Roxas' departure, Catelyn was left alone in a reserved room courtesy of Petyr. She didn't want to lay down on the large, lavish bed present in the room, no matter how tempting it was. With the silkened sheets, the fluffed pillows and nicely firm feathered mattress.

The ship she was on for nearly a month did not have any good bedding at all as she missed the one she had back in Winterfell. So the Lady Stark could be considered quite tired and wanted to get a proper rest prior to her husband's arrival.

Yet she remembered this bed was no doubt used. No matter how many times it's been cleaned up, it's been used by Baelish's whores. Catelyn did not want to have any part of her body touching that piece of bedroom furniture… let alone most of what was in this godforsaken room.

'Men and their sullen depravity.' Catelyn thought, gritting her teeth as she sat in a chair tucked in a corner.

Not far away was Rodrik as he stood guard, as per usual habit. And it didn't take much guess for one to notice how uncomfortable he was staying in a brothel longer than he should.

"My, my, what is this?"

Both Catelyn and Rodrik turned to see a man of Dornish descent enter the room, wearing a robe with various suns upon it. Behind the man was a woman who was of Dornish descent as well, given her complexion.

And he looked familiar to her. Where…?

"Well hello, hello, Lady Stark. It's been years." The Dornishmen greeted with a flourish and bow.

"...Prince Oberyn?"

"The one and only." He said with a cheeky grin. "I must admit, it is most certainly a surprise to see one such as yourself in an establishment such as this."

Catelyn's expression became stoic. "Not of my own volition, mind you."

"I believe you, My Lady." Oberyn said. "You are not the kind to be found in places like these?"

"And if it's fair on surprises, I'm quite surprised to see you here of all places."

Oberyn tilted his head with a confused expression. His reputation was known quite well throughout the Seven Kingdoms and some parts of Essos of being a lover to many women and most men. And with his infamous leisurely activity, he might as well move into a brothel and stay there.

"Not a brothel. The city, this city." Catelyn clarified.

"Ah~" Oberyn nodded understandingly. "Yes, I myself never would have dreamed of returning here unless under very specific circumstances."

"And would you be here in King's Landing? I clearly remember neither you or your family would even dare step foot within the capital after what occurred."

"LIke I said, very specific circumstances."

Catelyn looked to Rodrick who only shook his head as this wasn't his field. Only left in the dark as she was.

"And… what would those circumstances be?" Catelyn found herself asking.

Oberyn hummed aloud, leaning back toward Ellaria who simply encircled her arms around her lover.

"A certain boy who wields a key -of all things- that many from our time still recall."

"...Roxas."

Oberyn nodded. "Correct."

"Why would you be here for him?"

"His father left a profound impact upon my family, if you have forgotten." Oberyn said. "Saving my sister in Harrenhal. And making sure my Uncle Lewyn would live to see Dorne and his family once more after the Battle at the Trident."

"Ah yes." Catelyn recalled how much of a stir Ventus had caused in his introduction to the Seven Kingdoms.

The Stark Matriarch turned her gaze to the woman draped around Oberyn's shoulders, a sultry gaze in her direction. Something Oberyn picked up on.

"Oh, right. How rude of me. This here is my paramour and mother to four of my children, Ellaria Sand."

Catelyn found herself shifting uncomfortably. "A-a bastard."

Oberyn quirked a brow. "Ah yes. I tend to forget the rest of Westeros' view on lovely individuals such as Ellaria."

His paramour only smiled lovingly at Oberyn, kissing his neck and cheek repeatedly.

Both Northerners were uncomfortable by the open display of affection. It was certainly… lustful and promiscuous.

"So all of your children…"

"Bastards, yes." Oberyn said with a proud smile. "All eight of my beautiful daughters are considered bastards. But as most Westerosi look down on them, despise them even, we do not see bastards as such."

"Like how sand gets everywhere, it's always present in Dorne." Ellaria said with a warm smile. "Our people have grown to love and accept them, unlike the rest of the kingdoms. Not one of us alone as all of us bastards have thousands of brothers and sisters."

If Catelyn wasn't uncomfortable before, she most definitely was now.

"You would subject your own daughters to such a life?" Catelyn couldn't help but ask.

"Why is it such a problem?" Oberyn asked casually. "Bastards are born out of love and lust. Why should they be the ones to carry the burden and sins of their mothers and fathers? They are born without sin until the day they are able to make the choice themselves."

Oberyn had his head tilted back toward Ellaria who ensnared him in a passionate and loving kiss which made both Northerners look away at such an act.

This went on for several seconds until Oberyn pulled away with a roguish and lustful grin, one shared with his Paramour.

"Ah~ Love and passion." Oberyn said, looking to the now very uncomfortable Stark matriarch. "For me, it has given me more family to nurture and love even as the years go by. If I have heard the rumors, is it not true that your husband himself has a bastard?"

At the mention of her husband's bastard, Catelyn bristled while Rodrick looked away with a more somber face.

"Oh~?" Oberyn took note of her face with a face of slight surprise. "I take it you are not a fan of such a boy."

"He is a bastard." Catelyn said with a dark tone.

"And are my daughters not?" Oberyn asked with a light tone. "Would you talk down to them in that manner to their face?"

Catelyn opted not to answer instead looking away with a conflicted yet angry expression

Oberyn shook his head, interlacing his hand with Ellaria's.

"This spite against Bastards has always bewildered me." Oberny remarked. "Tell me, Lady Stark, what is it that the Bastard of Ned Stark has done that has gained your ire?"

"He is a Bastard." Catelyn stated in a cold tone.

"Yes, yes." The Red Viper said dismissively. "But what has this boy done to you specifically. Has he done something to harm your family? Your husband? Your children? What is it that the Bastard of Ned Stark has done that has ruined your life?"

Catelyn attempted to formulate a counter.

"H-he besmirched Ned's honor. Besmirched the honor of our union, his name." Catelyn said, voice growing more confidently. "Was disloyal to me after our wedding."

"Besmirched the honor of Ned Stark?" Oberyn laughed aloud at such a statement, something even his paramour joined in. "I am surprised you believe such a thing. All the Seven Kingdoms spoke of the level of Honor that your husband possesses and even having a Bastard didn't appear to lessen his reputation."

Cat's teeth clenched, now glaring at the prince who was nonplussed by her expression.

"You have not answered my question, Lady Stark." Oberyn stated with an unreadable face. "What was it that this bastard did that gained your ire?"

She was finding herself cornered mentally at such an argument. There are so many reasons she has at her disposal yet against a man such as Oberyn, her arguments would feel fruitless.

Oberyn 'tsked' aloud, shaking his head. "Just like every other wife within the Seven Kingdoms. They seem to focus on the bastard more than others do."

Catelyn Stark felt her anger begin to rise now. Not because of his tone but because of the truth Oberyn's words held.

Even if father's don't recognize their bastards as such, their lawfully wedded wives do; more so when the father has too many daughters and not enough sons. Often than naught when a father has too much gold in his coffers, he'd ask the reigning king to legitimize his child in order for them to take on the family name. And surely when said child has become legitimized, they'd be placed at the bottom of succession to inherit anything.

This isn't any sort of problem most argue about. Only that many wives see it differently, thinking the bastard will always be a bastard and nothing more. Seeking to gain more ground in their father's favor to inherit everything over the legitimate, true born children and ruin the family name and House.

In most points of view, people think the gods would enjoy playing with the mortals and give a father an actual true born son, sit back and watch it all play out to their heart's content.

"You're not scared of him are you?" Oberyn's question cut through Cat's thoughts.

"Wh-what?"

"Are you afraid of Eddard Stark's bastard?" Oberyn inquired with a raised brow. "Judging from how you reacted, there's a part of me that believes that to be the case."

She was fuming now. How dare he? How dare he claim such an audacious belief?

"Bastards are not to be trusted." Catelyn vehemently declared, earning a flat look from both Oberyn and Ellaria.

"Is that your only reason?" Ellaria asked with an unimpressed look.

Catelyn now scoffed in her direction. "Have you not forgotten the Blackfyres-"

"Oh Seven Hells not that one again." Ellaria groaned with Oberyn chuckling.

Ah yes, the Blackfyres, the infamous cadet branch of House Targaryen.

King Aegon Targaryen, fourth of his name, is remembered by history as "The Unworthy". Quite the accomplished feat, considering the other kings of Westeros. But even in a family not known for equanimity, Aegon stood out the most for spiteful incompetence. Tearing apart the realm simply because he couldn't rule himself, much less Westeros.

Now the problems with him began when he was a young prince, his wit made beloved at court and won him forgiveness for youthful indiscretions; but the cold steel of the Iron Throne didn't temper his passions.

He proclaimed that if he had to spend his morning hours being pricked by a thousand swords, he'd spend his nightly ones pricking others with his personal one. Lords sent their daughters to and from court so they would hopefully catch the soon-to-be king's eye so one of them would be lucky enough to become his wife. Yet the only woman in whom he took no pleasure at all was his sister and wife Naerys, even after she gave him a son and heir, Daeron.

Perhaps Aegon was jealous of her supposed love for his brother, the legendary hero Prince Aemon the Dragonknight. But nonetheless, Aegon was most certainly jealous of him. Not of his bravery or honor, but how young maidens swooned and old whores cried at the songs about him. But most likely, Aegon disregarded his wife and son because he chafed at restraints of any kind. Be they the bonds of marriage or patrimony or even reason.

So when Prince Daeron objected to his father's foolish plan to invade Dorne, Aegon incited a lickspittle lord to accuse Naerys of adultery with Aemon, making Daeron illegitimate and labeling him as a bastard. The Dragonknight defended his queen's honor in trial by combat and won, but while the lord's claim publicly died, the rumor hadn't.

Out of spite and pique, Aegon had seeded doubt into his own heir's claim to the throne, which bore bitter fruit with the birth of another son, the bastard Daemon Waters, by the king's own cousin.

You see, another thing as to how "The Unworthy" was so well known was due to him having a good dozen or so mistresses outside of his lawful marriage. With these actions, he sired a good number of bastards from ladies of noble Houses to the simple small folk servants and whores. And each and every one of them was raised in the Red Keep due to them carrying Aegon's royal blood through their veins.

With the number of women Aegon bedded, it made Robert pale in comparison. Or could it be the other way around?

Over the years as he trained, Daemon grew tall and powerful, excelling at all the marshal skills that men wrongfully valued in leaders. Instead of protecting his own heir from a rival, King Aegon knighted Daemon at twelve years old and shocked the entire realm by bestowing on him the Conqueror's own Valyrian steel sword. He even let the boy renounce his common bastard's name and take the Targaryen sword's name for his own, becoming Daemon Blackfyre.

Still, though a name can change a person, blood can't. And Daeron was Aegon's only trueborn son… until he wasn't.

You see, on his deathbed, "The Unworthy" forever earnt his epithet by legitimizing all of his bastards. Fittingly, Aegon's last act was to thrust himself into the realm and seed chaos.

A Targaryen without self-restraint may have led Westeros to the brink of ruin, but the highborn pushed it over the figurative cliff. While Daeron governed justly and wisely, correcting the worst excesses of his father's rule, many lords had grown rich off these excesses and did not approve of Daeron's reforms.

Particularly the peace he'd struck with Dorne once King Daeron -second of his name- was married to Myriah Nymerios-Martell while his sister, Daenerys, married Prince Maron Nymerios-Martell.

The malcontents rallied to Daemon and whispered that he should be king instead of his brother, whom -thanks to "The Unworthy"- many suspected was a bastard. At first, Daemon indulged these lords out of courtesy and vanity. But over time, their grievances and flattery wore down his objections, along with any sense of obligation to the half-brother who had granted him lands and a wife to continue the cadet branch of their Household.

Daemon eventually agreed to claim the Iron Throne by right of birth and, more importantly, arms.

A wheel with two hubs will not turn, and a kingdom with two kings will burn, as the saying goes. Not that such a cost stopped anyone with even the remotest claim and opportunity, much less House Blackfyre.

The constant cycles of rebellious wars that were perpetuated by the Blackfyres plagued Westeros for a century to come up until a few decades ago; claiming thousands of lives throughout the five Blackfyre Rebellions. The last of the Blackfyres came to an end with none other than Barristan the Bold slaying Maelys Blackfyre "The Monstrous" at the Stepstones. And thus Barristan's actions brought an end to the Rebellions of the Targaryen pretenders.

It seemed appropriate if one thought about it. Fire is only black when it is burned to ash.

Now because of the Blackfyres, the idea was cemented to many people throughout Westeros that bastards are no good to have at all. Yet many of them are overlooked with the good they've achieved… only if one knows where to look and take notice.

"If not for the Blackfyres, bastards may have a more positive light." Oberyn said.

"Hmm, if only my love." Ellaria said. "Most people within Westeros simply refuse to even attempt at giving them a chance. Their potential of becoming something greater than what one is led to believe."

"But not Dorne."

Ellaria gave him a loving smile. "But not Dorne."

Catelyn wished for them to leave but it appeared that Oberyn wasn't quite finished.

"Tell me then, Lady Stark. What would you say to Roxas if he was a Bastard?"

She froze, thinking of the Key Bearer who was a copy of his father who had once been known by many for his chivalrous and brave nature in protecting others. Something Roxas replicates to a T.

He had saved her daughters on many occasions by this point and had even taught her own son on how to be able to take on the dangerous Heartless that now threatened the Seven Kingdoms.

If he were to be a bastard...

Oberyn hummed aloud. "None of us really knew if he had found a girl to settle down with after his disappearance. Marrying her and having a family of their own. But…"

"Don't you say it." Catelyn hissed.

The Red Viper raised a brow at the Matriarchs reaction, shaking his head in disappointment.

"A foolish stigma indeed." Oberyn remarked. "One that has held back Westeros for too many decades now."

Lady Stark only huffed aloud, crossing her arms and turned away refusing to listen to the Martell prince anymore yet he went on.

"I do admire Brynden Rivers for his cunning and recorded works on the battlefield." Oberyn mused aloud. "Being both the very respected Hand of the King and Master of Whispers to King Aerys the First for a good number of years before leaving to join the Night's Watch at the Wall. And from there, he became the Lord Commander of the ancient order."

"What about the Golden Company, my love?" Voiced his paramour.

"Oh yes, can't forget that formidable sellsword company. Never breaking their contract as 'their word is as good as gold'. Had actually thought of joining them, once upon a time, but chose against it." Oberyn admitted offhandedly before turning towards the Stark Matriarch. "Imagine, if you would-"

"I don't." Catelyn interjected the Viper.

Before anything else could be spoken, they'd heard a sudden yell and grunt outside of the window. It was soon followed with a hushed angry voice. "You're a funny man, you know that?!"

Those present in the private room recognized that voice. Yet before the Dornish prince and his paramour could move, alongside the Northerner Master-at-Arms, Catelyn rushed at the open window. She leaned out and looked down below seeing a swordsman in black who could've possibly looked like a Lannister at first glance. She kept looking until she gave out a small gasp upon seeing Petyr being held against the wall of his establishment, with a hand around his throat, courtesy of-

"Ned!"

Her husband below looked up with a smile appearing on his face. He briefly looked to his side and Cat saw that it was a blond swordsman with a particularly large broadsword hanging from the bottom of his back that seemed to have accompanied the Hand.

Just who in the world was this man?

The blond silently gestured his head towards the direction of the brothel and promptly leaned against the side of the entrance. Ned nodded to him and walked in with Petyr muttering something under his breath before following after the Lord Hand with some laughter heard in the background.

Catelyn didn't waste any time to rush out of the private room, brushing past the Dornish prince and his paramour, before ending up in Petyr's study. Shortly afterwards, Ned rushed in and gazed at his wife. For a moment or two, they stared at each other before hurrying into an embrace, sharing a short kiss.

When Littlefinger finally entered his study, the Stark couple shifted away, yet remained close beside each other when facing the Master of Coin.

"As you can see by Roxas' proclamation, she is here." Baelish pointed out.

"Yes, I can see that." Ned said evenly. "Still have to thank him for finding and protecting both her and Rodrik." At that moment, Winterfell's Master-at-Arms was seen by one of the doorways, giving his liege lord a curt nod, who was given one in kind.

"Lord Stark."

Ned turned to see Oberyn leaning against a doorway with Ellaria having her head resting against her lover's shoulder.

"Oberyn, Ellaria." Ned said politely.

"I was just having a lovely conversation with your wife a few moments before your arrival." Oberyn said with a small grin.

"Oh?" Ned looked to his wife then back at the Prince of Dorne. "What of?"

"Simple matters." Oberyn said with a shrug. "How time has gone by, our children, bastards and such."

Leave it to Oberyn to make Ned squirm at the mention of more taboo topics that are usually not discussed so openly.

"But this is certainly an establishment I never would have thought I'd see you in, Ned." Oberyn joked.

"There's a lot this place makes me venture into, which I'd rather avoid." Ned begrudgingly admitted making Oberyn give him a knowing smile. "You seem to be comfortable, Oberyn."

He threw his free arm out in a grandiose manner. "Much does not bother me, Lord Stark. This could be a second home for me for all intents and purposes."

"Naturally." Ned said flatly. He had gotten a serious sense of Deja Vu just now.

'Brandon once said the same to me.' Ned thought to himself.

"Ned." Catelyn's voice broke him out of his thoughts. "Who was that man with you outside with the large sword?"

Eddard blinked, looking at his wife for a moment before realizing she had never met the aforementioned swordsman.

"That was Cloud Strife." Ned explained. "He was someone we had encountered at the Twins during our travels towards the capital. He has been assisting Roxas in effectively combating the Heartless."

"Truly?"

Her husband nodded in confirmation. "His skills and abilities with a blade mayhaps rivals that of Roxas'"

"So Cloud is here then?" Oberyn asked.

"If you want some words with him, he's right outside."

The Dornish prince smirked at this bit of new knowledge. "And?"

"...He doesn't seem too keen in being here."

Oberyn merely shrugged. "Thought so."

"If you would like, attempt to convince him to unwind and relax." Ned suggested with Oberyn guffawing.

"The honorable Ned Stark telling others to relax and unwind." Oberyn said. "I am truly glad to have come to King's Landing now."

"Such a day to remember, let alone witnessing in person." Ellaria added in, much to her lover's humor.

Eddard couldn't help but 'hmph' slightly in amusement.

"Come, my love." Oberyn said, arm laced with Ellaria's. "Let us attempt this folly and mayhaps have Cloud "relax and unwind" as the Lord Hand had suggested."

The two left, saying their goodbyes with Catelyn having a rather terse one to say the least.

"We have a lot to talk about Cat." Ned said onto his wife. "Roxas… told me the bare essential on what happened, but I want to hear it from you."

Catelyn nodded, firmly held his hand and recounted the tale as to how they almost lost their boy in his bed chamber.

It was honestly easy for her to speak out on the details, at first. Recounting each detail as if it were yesterday. But as it went on and on, it became a difficult struggle until the very end. And the awkward way as to how it all ended, with Bran waking up to the end events was quite troubling.

No doubt their little climber would have nightmares from such a startling wake up call.

"Now… the mere suggestion of the queen's brother trying to kill your boy would be considered treason." Baelish brought up.

"We have proof. We have the blade." Said Lady Stark.

It was then that Ser Rodrik spoke up. "Yet Roxas had brought up a good point that Lord Tyrion wouldn't have considered doing such an act."

"Keep in mind Tyrion would probably say the blade was stolen from him." Came Petyr's argument. "The only man who could say otherwise no longer has a throat, thanks to your boy's wolf."

Catelyn turned to her husband soon after. "Petyr has promised to help us find the truth. He's like a little brother to me, Ned. He would never betray my trust."

"I'll try to keep you alive, for her sake." Baelish said onto the Lord Hand. "A fool's task admittedly, but I've never been able to refuse your wife anything."

Catelyn gave her old friend a soft, warm smile. "I won't forget this. You're a true friend."

Petyr merely snorted a little. "Don't tell anyone. I have a reputation to maintain."

Ned simply kept a hard stare in the direction of the shrewd man with Petyr offering Cat a room where she may relax after a long journey as she had been unable to do so upon her arrival to the capital.

When Catelyn left in order to properly freshen up, Ned came up and spoke to his Master-at-Arms. "Is something bothering you?"

The old muttonchop-bearded knight sighed and nodded soon after. "Just this whole matter, Lord Stark. I understand your wife's drive to find the truth behind your son's accident, yet I feel coming here was a mistake."

"How so?"

"I tried to dissuade her, but she was committed to coming to the capital. And while I wished to stay and guard Bran, it would mean that I couldn't help your wife as she traveled alone."

Ned understood Rodrik's sense of conflicted duty, giving him a thankful nod. "Don't be too hard on yourself, old friend. You did well in keeping her safe and hidden as best as you could. Just be sure you'll do that and more when you both return to Winterfell."

Ser Rodrik snorted a bit. "That'll be a journey, no doubt about it. But I believe it'll occur tomorrow, given your wife hardly slept on the whole trip on both road and sea."

"I see." Ned muttered out. "I can probably be sure to have some rooms set up at the Red Keep-"

"As much as we'd like to stay there, Catelyn would probably want to stay at an inn."

"...Pardon?"

"She'd like to stay-"

"I know what I heard, but why at an inn? Surely she'd want to see our girls after so long."

Rodrik held up his hands defensively "You'd have to talk to her about it, Lord Stark. I, for one, haven't been able to convince her throughout the trip."

This was certainly not what he had expected to hear from Rodrick nor about his wife. Why in the Seven Hells would she refuse a chance to see her daughters? They would absolutely love to see their mother after what occurred during the trip to the capital and since arriving here.

But like Ser Rodrik said, it would be best to talk to her about it.

Honestly, it's like coming here needlessly complicated everything. And in more ways than one.

-Red Keep-

When walking through the corridors, Roxas had several things in mind. One of which most prominent being Catelyn's appearance here at the capital.

Seems that trouble is stirring in more ways than one and Roxas wasn't exactly sure of how to tackle it. For the time being, all he could really do is take care of any Heartless show up train with Cloud and Arya and deal with his whole betrothal nonsense.

But his mind kept drifting back to the attempted assassination on Bran and Catelyn's apprearance here. For one, it honestly made Roxas think Bran's accident was not really one at all, but something else. And if that wasn't enough, whoever was behind said incident would become a bit more cautious now that he's awake along with possibly catching wind of Catelyn's arrival here today.

He honestly felt as though things were about to become a mess and quite frankly, he wasn't really up for one.

This place was bad enough as it is.

"You are late, boy."

Roxas quirked a brow when he passed by an opened doorway. Stepping back, he peered inside and saw a dark, bushy haired, bearded man looking towards Arya. And in his hands were a pair of wooden training swords

"Tomorrow you will be here at midday." The bushy haired man declared.

"Who are you?" Arya asked while voicing Roxas' present question.

The man held out the two wooden swords in front of him. "Your dancing master, Syrio Forel."

Syrio threw the wooden blade with Arya catching it though with a slight fumble on the sudden act.

"Ah, you have had practice already I see." Syrio said approvingly. "Good. the next time you shall catch it with grace and ease."

"I've had a few good teachers." Arya said with a proud smile.

"Good?" Roxas said in a mockly affront manner. Both Syrio and Arya looked over to see the Keybearer walk into the present with a playful frown. "I thought you told me I was great."

Arya flushed with embarrassment. "I- I didn't mean you were bad. It's just-"

Roxas chuckled, ruffling her head. She swatted the hand away with a mild glare. "I'm just teasing ya."

Syrio cleared his throat with a small smirk. "Pleasure in meeting you…"

"Roxas." Said the blue eyed blond, holding out his hand.

"Syrio, given you no doubt heard of me moments ago." Said the dancing master, grasping onto the lad's hand and giving it a firm handshake. "Quite the good grip you have there."

"Thanks." Roxas gave him a sheepish smile. "You know how to announce yourself."

"The First Sword of Braavos must always display his title with pride." Syrio said dramatically. "I have the name of my homeland to live up to and defend."

"And how long have you been this First Sword of Braavos anyways?"

"Nine long years in the Sealord's service." Syrio stated. "A journey of constant growth and change. As I am now with a student before me that has much to learn."

"Well you won't find a more eager student." Roxas declared, intentionally ruffling Arya's hair a few more times despite her trying to swipe at him.

Syrio chuckled in amusement.

"I can sense truth in those words."

The Dance Master walked around now, tapping his own wooden sword against the ground.

"Now then, let me see your stance, boy."

"I'm not a boy. I'm a girl." Arya corrected the Braavosi.

Syrio waved her off. "Boy, girl, it does not matter. For you are a sword, that is all."

This perked Arya's interest, making her think and wear an expression that read along the lines of 'I like this guy'.

Roxas opted to walk over to some nearby steps and seated himself as he watched Arya have her first lesson with her new instructor.

"Now..." Syrio took several steps away from her, holding his sword horizontally. "Your grip."

Arya held up her own sword though strained slightly. "It's a little heavy."

"It's supposed to be."

"And here I thought you were used to the weight of your sword, Arya."

The She-wolf stuck her tongue out in the direction of her other mentor figure. "I'm not crazy powerful and strong like you, Roxas."

"I mean, wooden swords are much lighter than steel ones, ya know."

"Regardless." Syrio said, tossing his sword up and having it land perfectly upon the back of his hand. "Balanced as you can see. The weight is something you shall adjust to in time. You are not holding a battle axe or a cleaver, you are holding-"

"A Needle." Arya said with a smile one matched by Syrio.

"Ah~" Syrio nodded approvingly. "Just so. I take it she had practice with needles?"

Roxas shrugged. "In a manner of speaking. She has one of her own, which she's still working on her own style."

"Then perhaps this is what she needs." Syrio said. "Now, stand at side face. A girl such as yourself is perfectly suited for what I shall teach you."

He adjusted Arya's stance, tapping the back of her left shoulder, left knee and raising her chin up.

"One dance may not suit one person. Many, perhaps, but not all. But this is not one of Westeros you'd be learning, boy, with their Knight's Dance of their hacking and hammering. For you shall learn the Water Dance of Braavos, swift and sudden."

Arya held back her wanting to correct Syrio again, only nodding in response.

"All men are made of water, do you know this?" Syrio asked before gently jabbing Arya's stomach with the wooden sword. "If you pierce them, the water leaks out and they die."

Roxas thought of Demyx at the mention of this water comment. He technically was water embodied with his element. Wonder what Syrio would say about that matter.

"Now then," Syrio fell into his fighting stance with his wooden sword pointed out, "shall we begin?"

Arya looked to Roxas briefly with the Keybearer only nodding in encouragement.

She looked towards Syrio with a determined expression and moved forward. She swung several times, clashing with Syrio each time until he swatted the sword aside.

"Very impressive first outing." Syrio stated, retrieving the down sword and tossing it back to her with the She-wolf catching it with a slight flourish.

"How is that impressive?" Arya asked while Syrio grinned.

"All it takes is one strike." Syrio lunged forward in a burst of speed that surprised Arya as he held it up to her neck. "And you managed a few. Now, again"

From the doorway Roxas entered from earlier, Ned stood there silently. He observed the lesson Arya was partaking in for the first time from the Braavosi Dance Master.

When he learned of Arya's lessons for the first time, on top of knowledge of her sword Needle, Lord Stark decided to seek out a teacher for his youngest daughter.

Sure she had Cloud and Roxas to count on, along with some of the Martell retinue, but Ned thought she needed someone more appropriate with her given weapon.

It was at that time he received word from Lord Varys of Syrio Forel venturing outside of Braavos for the first time in nearly a decade as he wanted to travel to Westeros in some manner. Ned wondered why the Spider gave him this bit of information in the first place, but figured it was a means in being in the new Hand's good graces to some degree.

When Syrio appeared in port, Ned had summoned him and hired the Braavosi as Arya's new teacher in order to expand her potential. The man gladfully accepted and would begin the lessons the next day after his rest; which was today.

As the new teacher/student pair went on with their first lesson together, Ned's smile slowly became a frown. The sounds of wood beating against wood were replaced with steel clashing against steel. The sounds of joyful laughter were met with sorrowed yells. And soon enough, the sight before him of a simple training session was replaced with battle for one's life.

Squeezing his eyes shut, Ned took some calm, deep breaths in order to help bring him back to reality. But it was hard, given the experiences of war still haunt him to this day.

Roxas sat comfortably, watching as Arya threw herself into this "dance" with a passion and smile that made him blink for a moment.

What was that?

For a moment, he saw an older version of what looked like Arya with the same smile and slightly longer hair that floated about her with every twirl and spin.

There was an ache in his chest and feeling of regret and longing.

Frowning, he tilted his head down now going deep in thought.

Why was this happening again?

Those memories. They were not his own and yet it felt like they were all the same. What were those mem-

"Roxas?"

The Greater Nobody jolted, looking up at a concerned Arya. She had apparently noticed her friend's demeanor and had stopped her own lesson.

Syrio himself was looking on with a curious gaze.

"Are you alright, Roxas?" Arya asked, a look of worry flashing across her face.

"Uh… sort of." Roxas said, rising to his feet. "Just have a lot on my mind right now."

"Seems like it." Arya said. "Do you wanna talk about it?"

Roxas smirked slightly, patting Arya's shoulder.

"No need for my troubles to disturb your lessons right now." Roxas said. "Otherwise, I'd be wasting both yours and Syrio's time."

"Oh, I would not say that to those dear to my student." Syrio remarked.

"Still, it's your first lesson." Roxas said. "I'll see you later Arya. Good luck."

Walking away he didn't see Arya momentarily reach out to him only to have Syrio step forward and lower her hand with his wooden sword.

Once he was out of ear shot, Syrio placed a comforting hand upon his new student.

"He will come to you in time." Syrio assured. "Men like him at times need time to themselves in order to gather that which roubles them before going to others for assistance."

Walking through the hallways of the castle, Roxas was deep in thought. These memories were becoming more and more frequent. If it wasn't from looking at Ned, Robert or anyone that has spoken of or is connected to Ventus it was during the times when he was alone in his thoughts or even sleeping. These visions and memories just kept coming to him at random intervals.

And if he were being honest with himself, it was a lot like the last seven days of his existence being entrapped in DiZ's fake Twilight Town.

*FFF*

Feeling the ruffling from within his hair, Roxas didn't have to look up to see ChoCho waking up from his little nap.

"Pwii…"

"I have a feeling you're hungry after your nap, huh?"

"Pwii! Pwii!"

"I'll take that as a yes."

Not wanting to go straight to the kitchens or seek out a servant of the keep, Roxas chose to head back to his room. Waiting there would be some of the Chocobo feed by the little avian creature's bed.

It took a while to get to his chamber, given the slow pace he walked in getting there. Once unlocking the door with his Keyblade, he entered and locked the door with his Keyblade once more for privacy purposes. Gently plucking ChoCho from the top of his head, the Nobody set him down on the bed before fetching his "child's" meal.

When he did so, Roxas didn't notice the small chest containing the Carpathian Mirror opening up. The pieces floated in the air before assembling themselves. With a simple glow, the basic reflective image was replaced with something else.

"-xas? Are you there?"

The Keybearer snapped his head, hearing a voice in the room. He thought it was nothing, until-

"Roxas? Can you hear me?"

It was more noticeable this time, making the greater Nobody look off to the side to see the formed Carpathian Mirror. And with widened eyes, a smile soon formed on his face.

-End Chapter-

AN:

Been a while since updating this, but hey that's life for ya.

Anywho, a lot has come up as of late that has given me mixed feelings. For one, the Christopher Nolan film 'Tenant' has been put on indefinite hiatus apparently. Had high hopes of seeing it in the coming months as it was supposed to be the first movie to be released in theaters after so many months. But now that's no longer happening and along with so many people, I'm rightfully pissed.

Asides from that bit of downer, I saw a good number of game, show and movie trailers and announcements and I'm anticipating how they'll turn out upon release. More so very soon when Playstation brings up their State of Play.

Free Man Writer: Yeah, it appears that we're still in for a long haul of a quarantine and such. Though the advent of the Comic-con game trailers were a welcome reprieve from all the madness going on in the world. Halo Infinite being the biggest one for me considering how much of Halo has influenced my life and writing overall. Here's to hoping that this one is knocked out of the park cause hoo boy did Halo 5 leave a bad taste in everyone's mouth.

Jeb: Yeah with Cortana going all Skynet being the top of the complaints of said game. Even if Halo Wars 2 tried to make up for some of the problems, but not by much.

FMW: Indeed. I loved the Banished and Spirit of Fire going head to head but there was a lot to be desired in the end. Though Infinite's gameplay and story is leaving us with WAY more questions then I would have expected. Then again, let's hope they're answered in a satisfying manner. Good to be back on this story after a hiatus and with everything J and I are working on, on top of work we'll try to be as consistent as we can but responsibilities always come first.

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

R&R