VIII: Dawn Is Breaking

Arya

The Red Keep, King's Landing

Twelve-O-Seventeen Hours

Day 21 of the 3rd Moon, 298 AC

21st of First Seed, 218 4E

A few days ago, Father had been arguing with The Council again. Arya could tell because of the look on his face when He came to the dinner table late again. She had gotten into another pissing match with Her Sister which both Her Father and Emperor Varnus defused. She had apologized to Mordane for storming out of the sewing circle some time ago. By then, everyone was well aware that Her Father was having The Emperor take Her on as a Warrior Apprentice. She eventually heard from Emperor Varnus that The Second Great War has begun. And that The First Battle was won through an Act of The Gods by way of a deadly Hurricane that devastated a City called Leyawiin, and hit another City called Bravil as a Tropical Depression. It then hit The Imperial City, restrengthening into a Tropical Storm before finally dissipating. It's path of destruction did not finally stop until it reached yet another City called Bruma.

For the past few days unfortunately, Emperor Varnus wasn't able to train Her. Neither were Legolas or Fathoms as they were helping Father with something, but wouldn't elaborate as to what.

So, She resigned to reading a few books about Emperor Varnus' Homeland. She had been reading The Grand Ole Imperial City since This Morning. After reading the overview, briefing the Eight Districts of the city and what was found in them. She turned to the first of the "in depth" sections. Several hours passed, and She reached the last section. However, as she just started to read it, Vayon Poole; Her Father's Steward entered the room. And then He spoke before She got a word out. "Emperor Varnus sent for Me, He said for you to meet with him in the Small Hall immediately." And then He was gone again. So, she went to where Emperor Varnus was waiting.

The trestle tables had been disassembled and benches stacked against the walls. The hall seemed empty. Then, she heard a familiar voice: Emperor Varnus. "It is now half past the hour. You're... rather late. You were supposed to be here at Noon." He said as He stepped out of the shadows with Legolas and Fathoms. "I was reading about The Imperial City, I have been since just after Breakfast." She explained. "Ah, starting at that time, you'd be just getting to the last part about the Entertainment District, or already started on it." Arya eyes went wide with surprised whereas Varnus just grinned knowingly. She noticed he was holding two thin wooden swords.

"Now, I would just like to state something for the record." Varnus began. "I am doing this because your father trusts me. And because he feels I was a better option than whom he initially considered. I am training you to fight to such a degree that you may be deemed worthy of joining the ranks of Nirn's most formidable band of warriors: The Order of the Blades. On your sixteenth nameday, should you be deemed worthy, you will undertake a ceremony conducted by the Shogun which sees you officially join his ranks. The ceremony will be over when he bestows upon you the moniker of the deadliest warriors on the planet: Samurai. Or Bushi in Akaviri. And from this day forward, you shall address your fellow Samurai as Master and Mistress. For example: Master Boromir. Mistress Fathoms."

"What about Legolas?" Arya inquired. "Legolas is a Daimyo. Daimyos are basically Generals in the Order. They have command of either a castle owned by The Blades; such as Sky Haven Temple, or an important person's retinue; such as The 500 Samurai. For example, you address them as Daimyo Legolas. And the Shogun, you address him as My Shogun."

"What about you?"

"All except Legolas address me as Dragonborn. You shall be another exception for being my Warrior-Apprentice. You address me as Mister Julius. Now that all that has been said, do I make myself clear?"

"Yes, Mister Julius!" Arya barked at attention. Varnus tossed one of the wooden swords her way, She grabbed for it midair but missed as it clattered to the floor. "Tomorrow, you are going to catch it. Pick it up."

She complied, and then realized it was more than just a stick. It was heavier than it looked. A lot heavier than Needle. She held it out in front of Herself nervously with both hands. "You don't need two hands, you're not swinging a Greatsword. Take it in one hand, your swordarm."

"It's too heavy."

"It's as heavy as need be so You become strong. And it's also for the balancing. A hollow wooden shell with a lead interior."

"That's actually not that much lighter than an Akavari Katana." Legolas chimed in. "Right, and that's even lighter than My Gladius... One hand is all you need." She took the blade in Her left hand. Emperor Varnus seemed to approve. "Ah, so you are left-handed. Good, everything's flipped. It'll make your enemies' attacks awkward when they try to get at you. I still remember seeing you hold it that way when you sparred with Mycah. Although, that was more the fighting form of an average soldier, which is not what we are learning here... okay, now you're standing wrong. Turn your body sideways to Me... Good. You're almost as skinny as the shaft of a spear, did You know that? That's also good, smaller target profile, harder to get hit, but you get hit harder in exchange. Now the grip... let Me see."

He moved closer and peered at Her hand. Prying fingers apart and rearranging them. "Just like that. Don't squeeze it so tight. The grip needs to be deft and delicate."

"What if I drop it?"

"The steel needs to be part of your arm." Fathoms said. "Can you drop part of your arm?" Legolas inquired to Arya. "You cannot." Emperor Varnus began. "I've been swinging This Gladius ever since I was even younger than you. Since I was Seven. I am now Thirty-Three. I know these things. You are a sword." He observed Her grip. "Just like that, perfect. You aren't holding a battleaxe, you're holding a-"

"-needle."

"Yes... Now, we begin the dance of death. And remember, Little Wolf. This is not the Iron Dances of Westeros or Tamriel we're learning. Hacking and hammering, no. The Legionnaire's Dance. Blocking and thrusting, no. This is the Akaviri's Dance."

"Every Samurai of The Blades must master this." Fathoms began. "It's an ancient and sacred tradition of The Order." Legolas continued from there. "Dating back to when The Order was founded right after Reman Cyrodiil came out on top in the first of Three Akaviri Invasions in History."

"The Akaviri's Dance." Varnus continued from there. "The water dance, swift and sudden. All men are made of water, did You know that? When you pierce them, the water leaks out, and they die. The People of Braavos actually practice Waterdancing as well. Though from what I've heard, Akaviri Waterdancing makes Braavosi Waterdancing look like child's play... They also have a saying that's similar to one of many back home: What do we say to The God of Death? Not Today."

"Back home, The God of Death is Arkay. He guides The Departed to The Afterlife in the various realms of Aetherius. Your Father said that He had been considering getting a Braavosi named Syrio Forel to be your dancing master. Though that was before something recently happened that changed his mind."

"What changed Father's mind about that?"

"There will be another time... now... begin as I do." He took his wooden sword into both of his hands, held it up directly in front of his expressionless face, stood at attention, and took a bow. In that order, step by step, Arya did as he did.

Eventually, when we do that, we shall be perfectly synchronized. Now, try to strike at Me."

"En garde!" He exclaimed in a language called Bretonish. She swung to the right. Varnus' wooden blade caught it. He pushed back to the left, then swung back until his wooden blade stopped at Her neck. "Dead." He said. "Again." She tried to strike at him for four hours, until every muscle in Her body was sore and aching. While The Three of Them told Her what to do. They took turns sparing with Her.

"It's coming up on Seventeen Hundred Hours, that's enough for the day." Arya handed Her wooden blade back to Emperor Varnus. Her stomach growled very loudly. It was at this moment, She realized just how hungry She was. Because of this, and having missed Lunch. Enough for Emperor Varnus to hear clear as day standing from a few feet away. "Well." Varnus said with surprised amusement. "I... missed Lunch." Arya explained meekly with a sheepish grin. Her face bright red with embarrassment as She clutched Her belly with both hands, feeling the hunger pains. Varnus chuckled and smiled. "Come on." He said patting her on the shoulder. "Let's get ready for dinner to be served." Tomorrow, their real work would begin.

Varnus

The Red Keep, King's Landing

Fifteen-Forty-One Hours

22nd of of First Seed, 218 4E

The following day, Grand Maester Pycelle called Emperor Varnus and Legolas to the Small Council Chamber just as they were finishing another day of training with Arya. Legolas let Varnus do the talking. Varnus sat at the one empty seat at the table while Legolas went to lean against the wall. "If our Lord Hand wasn't already busy, and My Brother Stannis wasn't on Dragonstone, we would have the entire Small Council present." Renly Baratheon stated. "Mine's bigger than your's." Varnus observed. Baelish grinned. Varnus looked over at him. "Yeah, very funny. So... what is it you all do? We haven't gotten a chance to discuss any of this for the few days I've been here." King Robert was off doing Gods know what, Queen Cersei was there. But for the most part, she silently listened, as well as eyeing Varnus with curiously wondering eyes. He was starting to notice The Queen's attention being directed at him more and more. This was also his second time seeing Ser Barristan Selmy.

"Well, as you already know. Lord Varys and I are the Master of Whispers and Master of Coin, respectively." Baelish said. "The duties of our Master of Whispers is identical to that of You, Lord Varys. And our Master of Coin is called Lord Secretary of the Treasury Department. Pycelle, what is it that a Grand Maester does?"

"As you know, as a Maester, I'm a Healer and Advisor. As Grand Maester however, I am as such for The King. The position was founded 293 Years Ago when Aegon the Conqueror requested for an Archmaester from The Citadel over in Oldtown, to help advise him on governing The Seven Kingdoms."

"Is the Archmaester the one in charge at The Citadel?"

"No, that's the Seneschal. He is chosen from an election process through a pool of Archmaesters. The one that draws the lone black stone from a bag full of red stones is the one elected. He serves on the position for a year before another is chosen. If he is unable to serve in the position, another Archmaester can volunteer to serve in his place. Does Your Empire have an equivalent to a Grand Maester?"

"Sorta sounds like a combination between The Chancellor and the Lord Secretary of Healthcare. And I already know that Hand of The King is basically what The Chancellor is."

He then went on to explain to them how a Chancellor is elected to the position, and that apart from being The Emperor's Number One, The Chancellor was also Leader of The Imperial Senate.

"Most of the seats on The Elder Council; that's the official name, are elected from first serving as Senators for at least Two Years. Lord Renly, what is it that you do?"

"I am the Master of Laws. As such, I am obviously The King's Advisor on matters of Justice, Law and Order."

"The Empire's equivalent to that would be the Most High Judge. They are elected from a pool of 8 High Judges. And with them, the Most High Judge also oversees the Highest Court of Law in The Empire: The House of Justice. The High Judge that occupies the seat of the one that steps up to Most High Judge is chosen from amoungst the Judges of the Lower Courts. The High Judges and the Most High Judge have no term length limit. Same for the Lower Judges and Senators."

"New High Judges are elected when someone steps into the seat of Most High Judge, and when past High Judges either pass away, or retire. Same in the case for the Most High Judge. You must be an Attorney that is at least 30 Years of Age to be considered for being elected as a Judge. And you must be a Judge for at least 20 Years in order to be considered for being elected as a High Judge. All elections are conducted by The Senate after polling public opinion, and a minimum of two thirds majority must vote in favor for an election of someone to the seat in question."

"Sounds like a disaster waiting to happen." Cersei jabbed. "As my father would likely say about that: A Lion does not concern himself with the opinions of the sheep. Or, A Dragon, in your case." She finished.

"Ugh, what is it that your brother does, Lord Renly?"

"As Master of Ships, My Brother is the Advisor that is charged with commanding the Royal Fleet. As well as being charged with the building and maintenance of Warships, obtaining Crewmen for them, and commanding naval operations. The Royal Fleet currently numbers at 210 Vessels. 50 of which are here at King's Landing, the other 160 are over at Dragonstone. My brother sees it fit to have most of The Fleet with him as He is their Commander. And he also prefers to be personally governing the island that is under his own jurisdiction. 80 Vessels in the Royal Fleet are Galleys, everything else is something larger. House Redwyne actually has an even larger Fleet. 200 Warships. Ten less than Our's, but that number is quintupled by Merchant Carracks, Wine Cogs, Trading Galleys, and Whalers."

"Fewer." Baelish suddenly said. "Huh?"

"Ten fewer than Our's, not less."

Varnus had a look on his face that read "I'm not so sure it's a good idea having most of the Royal Fleet not at King's Landing, and to let a Vassal have a Fleet that rivals Your Own." They all read the expression on his face clear as day. "Well..." Varnus began.

"Master of Ships sounds like he's the equivalent to Grand Admiral of the Imperial Navy. While not an Elder Council Seat, rather a Chiefs of Staff Seat, The Grand Admiral is equal to Legate of the Shadow Legion, Legate of the Imperial Legions, and Lord Commander of the Auxilia Companies. They answer to the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. Which is a Council Seat."

"Ser Barristan, I'm guessing you're Master of Armies?"

"Uhh... no, there's no such Seat, heh. I am Lord Commander of The Kingsguard, you see. As such, I am charged with commanding The Kingsguard in defense of Our King. In collaboration with the City Watch, We route out and put down any would-be assassins and put down anyone that attempts any harm to Our King, and we question those that appear to threaten him. And if it wasn't a threat, we let them go, warning them to be more careful with their words."

"Sounds like a combination of The Blades and The Penitus Oculatus... I only recall seeing Six other men with white cloaks like your's. One of them didn't have the armor you and others have. And most of the Palace Guards seemed to consist of City Watchmen, with some Baratheon Soldiers and Lannister Soldiers here and there."

"That's because The King only ever has Seven Kingsguard at once. It's always been that way." Ser Barristan could tell from the look on Varnus' face, that he thought it was a very bad idea to have a mere seven men that are supposed to be unquestionably loyal guards to Their Reigning Monarch. "There aren't even that many Soldiers in this city... How many people even live here?"

"Our latest census places King's Landing's population at approximately 500,000." Pycelle answered. "And The City Watch's Numbers?"

"Commander Janos Slynt says they number at around 2,000. I; along with several others; believe that only a small fraction of that number would make formidable Soldiers." After hearing this, Varnus' eyes went wide as he put a fist up to his mouth and leaned an elbow against the table. "Great Gods!" He quietly exclaimed. He silently thought to himself:

2,000 Watchmen and a token force of Soldiers to keep the peace in a City of 500,000?! And only a small handful are in good fighting shape?! What in Oblivion are these fools thinking?! Gods! I really hope I'm able to help whip This Land into shape for confronting Our Undead Adversary. The Wall could even use some shoring up of It's defenses. Castle Black has no walls except for The Wall. And what of this mysterious Sixth of His Name? Where will I find him? Ugh, if helping Daenerys Targaryen is what it will take to find this Sixth of His Name and that being what it will take to reveal The Warrior Born in Ice and Fire when Dawnbreaker suddenly starts glimmering... I'll have to prioritize finding Daenerys and this Future King so I can find and train The Warrior. And to have Dawnbreaker shipped over here from it's hiding spot. What city in Essos am I even supposed to find Daenerys in?! And yet, preparing Westeros to face The Night King is just as important! Is this the prophesied choice That Red-Robed Woman was referring to?! Damn her! Damn her for setting in stone something that could prove costly either way! Which God does she even serve? I don't recall Red Robes being associated with Cultists to any God! ...

Then, he inadvertently began muttering his thoughts aloud. Loud enough for all of them to hear. "Except for-No... no, it can't be. They dissolved two hundred and eighteen years ago!" A worried look came across Legolas' face, while as the others just looked confused. "They did, didn't they?! Just Silus and His Little Museum in Dawnstar. Nothing more, right?" His heart began to quicken.

"Umm... Your Grace?" Pycelle stated. "Fuck... if some of-" Somehow, Littlefinger understood what was going through Varnus' head as a face of worried realization came across him. "Varnus... ?" Legolas said worriedly. Varnus' muttering grew into shouting. "Fuck... Fuck... Fuck! Fuck!" His heart feeling it was going to leap out of his chest. He then remembered he had a copy of the book titled History of The Mythic Dawn brought with him. "Legolas, I need to check something in a book in my quarters! Everyone, I'll be right back!" Varnus shouted as he bolted from his chair and out of the room.

He went running through The Red Keep to his quarters, passing numerous confused onlookers as He went. He passed King Robert and 5 of his other Kingsguards. "Emperor Varnus?" He called out confusedly with a hint of concern. He also passed Jamie. Who didn't say anything, but he looked confused, even a bit worried. And, he also passed Sansa, Joffrey and Sandor. "What's the matter?! World coming to an end?!" Sandor mockingly called out. This made Joffrey burst out laughing. Sansa didn't join in and simply looked as if She felt bad they were making fun of him. Even though The Hound said that as an insult, She knew that The World basically was.

Once he got back to his quarters, he began digging through the books he had. "What's going on?" Legolas inquired once he caught up to Varnus. "A few nights ago, I had a vision from The Elder Scroll of a Red-Robed Woman, and I think she might be a member of The Mythic Dawn!" He shouted back, as he found the book in question. Lord Stark came over, having heard the commotion. And Legolas filled him in on what Varnus just told him. "They're those cultists that killed off The Septims, right?" Ned asked for clarification. "Basically." Legolas said. "I thought Silus was the only one left of that lot." He then said to Varnus. "So did I, but it turns out that might not be so... Lord Stark, what have you found in that book on The Great Houses that Pycelle gave you the other day?"

"Nothing major yet, but as soon as I do, I'll let you know."

"Alright... well, I'm an idiot. It seems my worries have risen a false alarm. Silus and His Museum are indeed all that is left of The Mythic Dawn after all. One notable feature That Woman's red robes was actually missing was the Golden Rising Sun. I had thought The Mythic Dawn was even behind The White Walkers returning, and ultimately under the direction of Mehrunes Dagon. But... it seems that it really isn't Him that's behind this." Varnus finished. "So you think a Daedric Lord is behind Their Return? If not even Their Creation?" Legolas inquired. "Yep, and I think it might be the one that was behind a Daedric Invasion of Tamriel that began 751 Years before The Oblivion Crisis. And it was just as bad. If not worse since it lasted 4 Years."

"You don't mean..."

"Yes, I do. I believe Our Ultimate Adversary is Molag Bal. Not Mehrunes Dagon and The Mythic Dawn. Dagon has a more... burning personality. Whilst His Brother has a more... freezing one. And that fits the nature of these monsters."

"What of this Silus?" Ned inquired. "Bah, he's harmless." Varnus began. "And Shadow Legionnaires keep an incredibly close eye over him for good measures."

"The Planemeld... It's been 966 Years since it ended." Legolas said. "Yeah, and My Father once said that an ancestor of mine named Varnius was key to defeating Molag Bal and ending the crisis... plus some other stuff afterwards... Including the killing of a handful of Dragons. Father said that he essentially named Me after the man. And that an ancestor of his named Gallus married Princess Miveria; Reman Cyrodiil's Daughter and Kastav's Sister."

"Pertaining to that book on The Cyrodiils that had an unsigned letter from someone that said they were a friend of Your Father? When we got the first shipments of supplies for Novae terrae a few months ago?"

"Yeah, that book confirmed it. Gallus was one of Reman's most dedicated and decorated soldiers, it said... Descended from The Cyrodiils and The Septims. Two Dragonborn Dynasties hundreds of years apart, what are the odds? Father said that a man named Gaius was the first of the Julius name and was allegedly born the day Alduin was banished through time. Which he insists coincided with King Eplear founding the Camoran Dynasty in Valenwood. When The Merethic Era ended and began The First. Gaius was a Brainchild of Akatosh, Father said. In other words, a Dragonborn. He was found by the Nord Heroes: Hakon and Felldir that same day, wrapped in a blanket that read: Gaius. They raised and trained him, and before he was even 20, he had killed nearly a hundred Dragons. When he killed his first at 13, that's when they discovered he was a Dragonborn."

"Into his mid 20's, he had taken a great amount of treasure from Dragon Cult Tombs and Temples as loot. People starting calling him a nobleman because of it, and he coined the surname Julius. That was the day when House Julius was said to have been founded. Sometime before the rise of Reman Cyrodiil is when House Julius had moved from somewhere in Skyrim to the city of Skingrad in Cyrodiil."

"Sounds like a mythological story." Lord Stark said. "If there's one thing I had come to know of My Father, is that he would tell no lie. Especially about Family History. Many that knew him even took to calling him Honest Titus. Plus, tales of Gaius Julius the Dragonborn have been told throughout The Ages."

He and Legolas left out the part that when they was in Sovngarde, after defeating Alduin, Varnus asked The Nord Heroes about this, and they confirmed it. Gormlaith said "I had a perfect view of him growing up from up here." When Varnus asked if all Dragonborns go to Sovngarde, Hakon responded saying "No. Most of the Dragonborns weren't even Nords, but Imperials. Gaius, Queen Alessia, The Cyrodiils, most of The Septims, and everyone of the Julius name. And unfortunately, when your time does come, you won't come back here to Sovngarde. This is the afterlife for The Nords, after all. You'll end up going to The Imperials' afterlife: The Domain; the realm of Akatosh. Perhaps The Gods will allow us to visit. Especially your dear Aela." This was obviously almost a year before she and Varnus (happily) parted ways. So at the time, they obviously presumed he would marry her.

"Us Juliuses have always been good with money. Although My Father ended up loosing everything. Thanks, Granthar. However, I was able to quickly accumulate great wealth, even before I become Emperor. They even say we shit gold, they say the same thing about The Tharns."

"We say that about The Lannisters." Ned added with a smirk. The three of them had a laugh. "Ah, you two have indulged my weakness for talk of family heritage long enough." Legolas and Ned chuckled. "Now, if you'll excuse me, Lord Stark. I must return to the Small Council chamber now." He gave Varnus and Legolas a departing nod, And they were off. He was relieved to find everyone still there, waiting patiently.

"Have you finished panicking?" Cersei japed when Varnus took his seat and Legolas went back to leaning up against the wall. Varnus decided to go along with it. "Yes, yes I have. Just a false alarm that made me look like an idiot, no matter. Shall we continue?"

"Gladly." Ser Barristan began. "We were... comparing The City Watch?"

"Ah, yes. How is the chain of command structured?"

"Nothing special. Just Commander Janos Slynt and His Lieutenant. The Men in each of the districts pick their own man to represent them to The Commander and His Number One."

"Tsk tsk tsk tsk. Streamlining Law Enforcement like that makes for a slue of problems. For example, in The Imperial City, The Higher-Ups decide who watches over where. And the chain of command is more complex: From Watchman/Agent, to Sergeant, then Lieutenant, then Captain, then Commander, and finally Deputy Chief, and Chief."

"Two Sectors. Divided into Eight Districts. Each divided into twelve Subdistricts. Except for the Palace District, which has no Subdistricts. And the Waterfront District has twenty four. A Lieutenant is charged with the Command of a Subdistrict. 24 Sergeants report to them. A 25th Sergeant is their Number One. All Watchmen and Agents report to them. A Captain is charged with the Command of a District. The Lieutenants of the 12/24 Subdistricts report to them. A 13th/25th Lieutenant is their Number One. A Commander is charged with the Command of a Sector. The Captains of the 4 Districts report to them. A 5th Captain is their Number One. The Two Sector Commanders report to the Chief and their Deputy Chief."

"What do the Agents do?" Renly inquired. "They're private detectives that search crime scenes for anything The Watchmen may have missed. They handle the forensics. The Watchmen will just do a superficial search. More importantly, The Agents interview suspects and witnesses. And go undercover infiltrating crime syndicates. Finding out what they can, and then blowing the whistle. They secretly contact Lawmen, whom come in and arrest everyone, and then the Agent goes on to their next target. And they're technically part of the Penitus Oculatus. Forensics, Interviews and Syndicate infiltration is their specialty."

"Interesting."

They were none the wiser. The Thieves Guild and the Dark Brotherhood covered their tracks efficiently enough none outside at all suspected that The Emperor was involved with Them. That the Master of Whispers was also Master of The Guild, and that the Maniacally Morbid Court Jester was part of The Brotherhood.

"Ahem, anyway... at present, the Chief of the Imperial City Watch is an Imperial named Pritch Mucello. He's a good man. One-hundred-and-eight Subdistricts, Eight Districts, Two Sectors, One City. The Waterfront District, Temple District, Talos Plaza District, and Elven Gardens District make up the Western Sector. Whereas the Arboretum, Entertainment District, Market District, and Palace District make up the Eastern Sector. The Palace District's piece of the City Watch consists only of War Veterans from The Legions. These men have served for at least a decade. And they are known as the Imperial Guard. They guard my palace, and they guard the palaces of my representatives in the Empire's other Provinces. Their official name is the Praetorian Guard. The Elite Guardsmen. And thus, the Captain of the Palace District and the Lord Commander of the Praetorian Guard are one in the same."

"Presently, the Praetorian Lord Commander is an Imperial named Oritas Jucinius. He's the best of the best. The Praetorians also wear armor and cloaks painted Violet, whereas the rest of the Watchmen wear Black, and the Legionnaires wear Red. This is to better distinguish them from one another. Apart from the shape of their helmet, and the insignia on their left shoulder pauldron indicating their affiliation and rank. Also, only Officers wear cloaks in The Legions." Varnus set a map of City Isle down on the table. "From looking at this map of the city, You'll notice that the Palace District is much smaller than the others, and The Waterfront District is considerably larger than the others."

"Interesting... how many people live here?" Pycelle inquired.

With The City's population census from Last Year being close to 10 Million, 1 Million are on the City Watch. The Imperial City is massive, encompassing a significant portion of the Western half of City Isle, which is massive in of itself for a non-volcanic island, and The Imperial City is the most populous and largest city in all of Tamriel. Easily dwarfing the mere Half A Million living here in King's Landing, which is Westeros' largest and most populous city, is it not?"

"It is." Pycelle confirmed. "And I thought King's Landing was massive." Renly commented aloud. All their eyes went wide when Varnus went and said "Heh, how's this for massive? You can easily fit seven King's Landings in The Waterfront District alone. A colossal hub of industry and commerce."

They went into a more back and fourth on The Imperial City and King's Landing. Varnus told them about the other members of The Elder Council: Lord Secretary of Foreign Relations. Lord Secretary of The Interior. Lord Secretary of Agriculture. Lord Secretary of Commerce. Lord Secretary of Labor. Lord Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Lord Secretary of Transpiration. Lord Secretary of Energy. Lord Secretary of Education. Lord Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Imperial Battlemage. President of the TSC; Tamrielian's Science Committee. Lord Secretary of Homeland Security. Chairman of the Small Business Administration. And the Chairman of the RPAPS; Rare Plants and Animals Protection Society. The Shogun of The Blades and the Director of the Penitus Oculatus also on the Elder Council, they also filed reports to the Lord Secretary of Homeland Security.

Varnus also told them about The Arcane University in the the Arboretum of The Imperial City. And Mannimarco's Pit; named after the legendary necromancer; located in an outcrop of the Market District. Mannimarco's Pit is the largest and toughest prison in The Empire. He told them a bit about who Mannimarco was, which Cersei dismissed as a mummer's farce, much to the annoyance of Varnus and Legolas. Varnus also said that Mannimarco's Pit used to be home to the Headquarters of The Empire's Armed Forces. Until a large-scale prison riot saw an attempt on the life of Supreme Commander Tullius seven years ago. Possibly instigated by what were believed to be Thalmor Moles that intentionally got themselves arrested and put there. After which, The Armed Forces Headquarters was moved into the White-Gold Palace.

He mentioned one of the Black-Briar Meaderies that was in Cyrodiil; the one in The Imperial City; was found in the Entertainment District. He also told them a bit about the Entertainment District.

"There's the largest Gladiatorial Ring in all of Tamriel: The Coliseum. The largest Racetrack for Chariot Races: The Circus Maximus. The largest Racetrack for Horse Races: Talos Racetrack. And the countless Gambling Parlors and Theatres among other things present in the district. As prostitution is now illegal in The Empire, the brothels were all replaced with additional Gambling Parlors, and Theatres, one of which is dedicated to the singing genre called Opera. And a large Concert Hall named after an ancestor of mine. It's called Augustus Centre. which is where a famous large group of Musicians called the Imperial City Symphony Orchestra performs."

"What of Religion?" Pycelle inquired. "The largest place of worship for the Imperial Pantheon is named the Great Temple of Martin. Also referred to for short as The Great Temple. It was built as a new housing for the Dragonfires that were in what was called the Temple of The One. The Petrified Avatar of Akatosh was also left there. It's perched over The Dragonfires, and these are the first things you will see when you first enter. Your Great Sept of Baelor is puny compared to the Great Temple." They then went into comparison of The Seven and The Nine. As well as the organization of how things were run. "I'm sure the High Septon would enjoy talking about this." Pycelle suggested. "Even more than we did." Cersei said with boredom. "He might even try to get you to convert." Littlefinger jested. "This experience has been most enlightening of our new, distant neighbors. Emperor Varnus, Daimyo Legolas. We bid you two good day."

"Thank you, Pycelle."

Boromir

The Riverlands

Sixteen-Thirty-Three Hours

23rd of First Seed, 218 4E

"My lady, you ought to cover your head, you'll take a chill." Ser Rodrik said to Lady Stark. "It's only water, Ser Rodrik." She replied. "I'm soaked through, even my bones are wet." He whinged. "Yeah, this cloak is sticking to me like wet cement. It's at the point if I try to take it off, I'd effortlessly rip it to pieces." Boromir added. "It's been raining for nearly two hours nonstop." Ser Rodrik continued. "We will want a fire tonight, My Lady. And a hot meal that would serve the three of us."

"There's an inn at the crossroads up ahead." She said. "An inn..." Ser Rodrik repeated. "If only... but we dare not risk it. If we wish to remain unknown, I think it best we seek out some small holdfast-" He broke off as they heard the sounds of water splashing, a horse whinnying, and the sound of mail clinking just up the road. "Riders." Ser Rodrik warned, as he let his hand fall to his sword hilt. They rounded a bend in the road to the source of the sounds to see an armed column of men nosily fording a high stream. The three of them reined to let them pass. The flag that the foremost rider was holding was hanging limp and sodden. They wore indigo cloaks and their sigil was a silver eagle. Boromir made out a finely dressed man among them, plus a similarly dressed one with a younger-looking face. "Mallisters." Ser Rodrik whispered. "My lady, best pull up your hood."

She didn't move. Boromir nonchalantly looked off into the trees so they wouldn't see his face. He also faked a quick inspection of his saddle and patted his horse for good measure. However, he was afraid they already made him out. Please don't say Lord Stark, for the love of The Nine, please don't say it! He thought to himself. He figured Lady Stark and Ser Rodrik knew what he was doing. It was bad enough that several whores down in King's Landing mistook him for the man. But another Noble Lord doing so is something they DID NOT need to deal with, especially now. But surely enough, no one said anything. Once they all passed by and were out of earshot, Boromir looked back to Lady Stark and Ser Rodrik and sighed in relief. "He did not know you." Ser Rodrik said wondering. "Thank The Nine for that." Boromir said.

"Lord Jason Mallister saw only three mud-spattered travelers by the side of the road, wet and tired." Lady Stark said. "Is that who that was?" Boromir queried. "Yes." Lady Stark replied. "His son Patrek too. It would never occur to him to suspect that one of them was the daughter of his liege lord. I think we shall be safe enough at the inn, Ser Rodrik." She finished. "So who are The Mallisters?" Boromir further queried as they spurred their horses onward. "One of the most prominent houses of The Riverlands." Lady Stark began. "They built their castle along the coast of Ironman's Bay to the West, to help protect against Reavers from the Iron Islands. As such, they have a deep distrust of The Ironborn. And eventually, a city named Seaguard sprung up around their castle."

A short time passed before they reached the Crossroads Inn and they headed inside.

"Two rooms at the top of the stairs, that's all there is. One has two beds." The Innkeeper said. "They're under the bell tower, so you won't be missing meals, though there's some that think it's too noisy. Can't be helped. We're full up, or near as makes no matter. It's those rooms or the road." She finished. "We'll take them," Lady Stark declared. "Fine, fine, and leave your boots down here. The boy'll clean them. I won't have you tracking mud up my stairs."

"No worries." Boromir said. "And mind the bell. Those who come late to meals don't eat." So they went up to their rooms for a short while. Boromir was going to take the room with two beds that Ser Rodrik was taking as well. Lady Stark wished for a room to herself. "Bah!" Boromir muttered as he tried taking his cloak off, only for it to tear wide open, now useless. When the supper bell came a short time later, Boromir shouted in surprise. "Gods!" He exclaimed, rubbing his ears. So the three of them went back downstairs for supper.

Ser Rodrik and Lady Stark went to sit at a table and Boromir went up to the counter to order for himself. He overheard Ser Rodrik call out for bread, meat and beer in a tone that meant now. Easy, man! Boromir thought to himself as he glanced back at them. "And what'll you be havin'?" The innkeeper Lady Stark identified as Masha inquired. "A venison chop, and a flagon of your best wine." Boromir responded as he set the appropriate amount of coin down. "So you a Knight or somethin'?" She said gesturing at his armor and Akaviri Katana as she collected the coin and poured a flagon of wine for him. "Something similar." He answered, taking a sip from the flagon. "Hmm... so what of your two compatriots over there?" She further inquired.

"I uh... really shouldn't say." He responded. "Fair enough." She finished as she handed him his plate of venison. He then went back over to sit with them. "She was asking about us. She apparently didn't recognize you, Lady Stark. Neither did she ask if I was your Lord Husband." He whispered to Lady Stark and Ser Rodrik. "That's good to know." She whispered back. "Why are we whispering?" A man whispered to them. Boromir shouted in surprise as he held a fist over his mouth and shut his eyes for a moment. "W-who's this?" Boromir inquired with a slight stutter. "My name is Marillion, good ser." The man responded to him in a normal voice, he apparently assumed Boromir was a knight. "I... didn't see you there."

"No worries, and apologies for startling you."

"You're a minstrel?" Boromir inquired when he noticed his woodharp. "Indeed I am, doubtless you've heard me play somewhere?"

"Afraid not." Lady Stark replied. The man drew a plaintive chord from his woodharp. "That is your loss, who was the finest singer you've ever heard, ser?"

"Pantea Ateia of Solitude." Boromir answered. "Hmm... I can't say I've ever heard of him or that city."

"She."

"Huh?"

"Pantea is a woman."

"Ohh, perhaps one day I might cross paths with her and we might perform together."

"You'd have to go to Solitude, for that. She doesn't go on tours anymore. And, she now spends her days teaching at the Bard's College there. Maybe pick up some tips from the best?"

"That place sounds wonderful! I'll have to look in to that... Who's would you say is the finest singer?" He then said looking at Ser Rodrik. "Alia of Braavos." was his answer. "Oh, I'm much better than that old stick. If you have a silver for a song, I'll gladly show you."

"I might have a copper or two, but I'd sooner toss it down a well than pay for your howling." Boromir nearly choked on his wine as his eyes went wide and a grin came across his face. He then looked in Ser Rodrik's direction. "Your grandfather has a sour nature." Marillion said to Lady Stark. "I mean to do you honor. A homage to your beauty. In truth, I was made to sing for kings and high lords." Oh shit. Boromir thought to himself. "Oh, I can see that." Lady Stark replied to the man. "Lord Tully is fond of song, I hear. No doubt you've been to Riverrun."

"A hundred times, they keep a chamber for me, and the young lord is like a brother." Marillion finished. I doubt that very much. Boromir thought to himself. "And Winterfell? Have you traveled North?" Lady Stark asked Marillion. "Why would I?" He countered. "It's all blizzards and bearskins up there, and the Starks know no music but the howling of wolves."

"Bullshit." Boromir said through a fake cough. Lady Stark grinned. So did Ser Rodrik as he snickered through his nose. Marillion gave a pretentious "Pffft." And then left them. Ser Rodrik started saying something to Lady Stark, but Boromir didn't catch it as he caught sight of four men that just walked in. A Brother of The Night's Watch. And two men that must've been soldiers guarding the dwarf that was with them: Tyrion Lannister. Boromir patted his hand hard on the table twice without breaking eye contact. Ser Rodrik and Lady Stark turned to see what he was looking at. "Oh, Gods." Ser Rodrik muttered. "Innkeep, we have horses than want stabling, and My Lord of Lannister requires a room and a hot bath." A guard called out as they went up to the counter.

"I'm sorry, m'lord, truly. We're full up every room." Masha responded. "My men will sleep in your stable." Tyrion began. "And as for myself, well... I do not require a large room. As you can plainly see. So long as the fire's warm and the straw reasonably free of fleas, I am a happy man." He finished grinning.

"M'lord, there's nothing, it's the tourney, there's no help for it. Oh..." Tyrion had pulled a gold coin from his purse and causally flicked it up and down through the air. Someone in leather armor suddenly stood up. "You're welcome to my room, M'lord."

"Now there's a clever man." Tyrion said as he sent the coin spinning across the room. The freerider grabbed it from the air. "And a nimble one to boot. What's your name, ser?"

"Bronn. And I'm a sellsword, not a knight."

"My mistake... You will be able to manage food, I trust?" Tyrion said looking back at Masha.

"Anything you like, M'lord, anything at all." Masha promised them. "My men will have whatever you're serving these people." Tyrion began. "Double portions. We've had a long hard ride. I'll take a roast fowl-chicken, duck, pigeon, any meat will do. And send up a flagon of your best wine... Yoren, will you sup with me?"

"Aye, M'lord. I will." The Black Brother replied. Tyrion had not so much as glanced in their direction, which the three of them were thankful for. But such thankfulness was short lived. "My Lord of Lannister!" Marillion suddenly shouted, bounding to his feet. "I would be pleased to entertain you while you eat. Let me sing you the lay of your father's great victory at King's Landing!"

"Great massacre at King's Landing, more like it." Boromir muttered loud enough for Lady Stark and Ser Rodrik to hear. "Nothing would be more likely to ruin my supper." Tyrion responded dryly. His eyes moved away from the singer and found Catelyn's. He look at her for a moment puzzled. She turn her face away, and Boromir looked down at his now empty plate. Too late. "Lady Stark, what an unexpected pleasure." Tyrion said smiling. "And Boromir Jorgenson the Samurai looking as well as ever." He continued. "Fuck!" Boromir muttered. Boromir looked up to see Marillion gaping at Lady Stark. Ser Rodrik muttered an expletive, as Cat slowly rose to her feet. "Lady Stark?" Masha said thickly. "I was still Catelyn Tully the last time I bedded here." She said to Masha.

"You, in the corner." She suddenly said to a man behind Boromir. "Is that the black bat of Harrenhal I see embroidered on your surcoat, ser?" The man got on his feet. "It is, My Lady." He responded. And is Lady Whent a true and honest friend to my father, Lord Hoster Tully of Riverrun?"

"She is." The man stoutly replied. Ser Rodrik rose quietly and loosened his sword in it's scabbard. Tyrion looked at him confused. "So much for savoring the rest of this." Boromir muttered as he saw where this was going and proceeded to slug the remaining three fourths of his wine. He let out a satisfied exhale and wiped his mouth. He then stood up himself, picked his helmet up from the table and put it on, He then gripped his hand on the hilt of his Akaviri Katana. Tyrion looked on confused. "The red stallion was ever a welcome sight in Riverrun." Lady Stark said to the trio by the fire. "My father counts Jonos Bracken among his oldest and most loyal bannermen." She continued. The three soldiers exchanged uncertain looks. "Our Lord is honored by his trust." One of them said hesitantly.

"I envy your father of all these fine friends." Tyrion quipped. "But I do not quite see the purpose of this, Lady Stark." She ignored him, turning to a large party of over twenty in blue and gray. "I know your sigil as well: The twin towers of House Frey. How fares Your Lord, good sers?" Their officer rose and responded. "Lord Walder is well, My Lady. He plans to take a new wife on his ninetieth name day." Boromir looked shocked that such an old man was about to marry. Again? Boromir thought. I'm guessing this isn't even a second wife. "He has asked Your Lord Father to honor the wedding with his presence." Tyrion snickered. Ser Rodrik and Boromir stood side-to-side by Lady Stark as she then declared to the entire inn:

"This man came a guest into my house, and then conspired to murder my son, a boy of seven." She began, pointing at Tyrion. "In the name of King Robert and the good lords you serve, I call upon you to seize him and help me return him to Winterfell to await The King's justice." Boromir drew his Akaviri Katana and pointed it at Tyrion. Ser Rodrik already having done so with his sword. The Black Brother Yoren stepped aside. The Whent Soldier drew his sword. The three Bracken Soldiers, and the twenty-something Frey Soldiers all followed suit and moved to surround Tyrion and his two guards.

Eran

The Crystal Palace, Alinor, The Summerset Isles

Eighteen Fifty-Eight Hours

23rd of First Seed, 218 4E

"Oh, who is it that must urgently speak with me at this time a night, Allios?!" King Eran snapped at his Bosmer steward. I need to get ready to head out tomorrow! I am to relieve my fool of a son Orthir of command of our remaining forces so we can actually breach That Line. They can speak to me on the 'morrow."

"But sire, this Altmer was most insistent. And he said that he would leave if you didn't come immediately." Allios protested. "Well, that's his loss. Now get out of my chambers!" Eran countered. "S-sire..." Allios stuttered. "He could be a very powerful asset. One that could end the war in our favor." Eran let out an irritated sigh. "Fine. Where is he?"

"Follow me, sire." King Eran swore Allios led him from one side of the palace to the other before he finally said something. "Here we are." He said as they stood at the door to a room at the end of a hallway. "Now, do you mind finally telling me who in Oblivion I came out here to speak with?!" Eran snapped at Allios. "He could be a very powerful asset. One that could end the war in our favor." He answered. "You're... repeating yourself." Eran said to him with a confused look. He opened the door and stepped inside. he saw a figure in a black cloak sitting in a chair, facing away from him. "Who are you to demand my presence at this hour?!" King Eran demanded. "You know who I am." The Altmer responded in a low voice. Eran laughed. "Really?! Then refresh my memory before I have you executed!"

Allios suddenly shut the door and locked it. "Wh-?! Have you lost your mind, Allios?! What are you doing?!" Eran furiously exclaimed as he turned to face Allios. He saw the Altmer rise out of the chair and turn to face him out of the corner of his eye. Eran turned back towards him as he lowered the hood of his cloak. Eran's eyes went wide with horror. "Impossible." He exclaimed with a whisper. This Altmer wore the Necromancer's Amulet and the Bloodworm Helm. And he grasped the Staff of Worms in his right hand. A red skeleton was painted on the front of his cloak.

"Oh, Eran. You have no idea what is possible." Mannimarco taunted. Eran realized that Allios had been enthralled. Eran turned to get out of there, but before he could grab the lock on the door, Mannimarco put him under his spell. The King of the Third Aldmeri Dominion had just been turned into a puppet of The King of Worms. "Phase One complete. Lord Bal will be most pleased." Mannimarco remarked aloud.

Authors Notes:

Greet the new day.

Let's start off by addressing the elephant in the room. I'm really sorry for this unusually long intermission between Chapters 7 and 8. It was basically a hiatus that lasted nearly two months. Infact, there was a second that lasted only about a week that ended with Me finishing Boromir's POV Segment and Eran's short POV Segment the other day.

Also, back last weekend, This Story hit 10,000 views. As of posting the chapter, there has been a further 326. And undoubtedly countless more once I posted this. And I thank you all for helping me achieve this important milestone.

How is Mannimarco alive, you may ask? Well, despite the final events of the Mages Guild Questline in Oblivion. I'm convinced that Mannimarco's not dead. Not yet. I have a rather simple theory for my explanation in this story, but I won't reveal that until a later chapter. I'm also convinced that Molag Bal still "owns" him. Maybe he'll show up in The Elder Scrolls VI.

Speaking of The Elder Scrolls VI, I think it's suffice to say that, no matter when the game takes place, it won't be canon in my story. Infact, you can consider The Elder Scrolls of Ice and Fire as essentially being The Elder Scrolls VI.

Just like Chapter 7, Chapter 8 underwent a few name changes as well. First it was "The Eyrie" Then, when I realized I wouldn't be "getting there" in this chapter, I changed it to "Not Today" Then, very briefly, it was "Say It Isn't So!" before I settled on the name you all got.

A couple other things to address:

You bet your sweet ass I made The Last Dragonborn descended from Two Dragonborn Dynasties and the founder of House Julius a Dragonborn himself!

As you saw, I've also implied that House Tharn is still around.

I've basically modeled The Elder Council after the Presidential Cabinet of the United States.

I'd also like to take this time to give a shout out to GreyWolf93. (He went by Trap3r when I first started following him.) Dude, if by some chance you see this, or someone else tells you about it. I'd like to thank you for giving Me the inspiration I needed to move forward to writing and posting the first chapter of: The Elder Scrolls of Ice and Fire. One day in the early morning a few years ago, I decided to Google for Elder Scrolls-Game of Thrones crossover fanfics, and "Ice and Fire: Total War" was the very first of the search results. I started reading the Prologue Chapter, and before I even finished reading that I was grinning like an idiot. And your shout out to DoctorEagle for "Of Kings, Draugr, and Dragons" are how I found him. He was just as much of an inspiration as you were.

Does anyone know if he's even still around? I'd kinda like to find out what happens next in the sequel "In Chaos and Darkness"

And Grey, I'm really looking forward to the climax of "A Song of Ghosts and Wolves I: A Game of Spectres" and for "Ice and Fire: Total War" to come back up, I'm dying to find out what happens next.

Until next time,

stay spoopy, my friends!