The Songs of Sheeran - A CKII AGOT Narrative AAR

[EmpireofOne]

Chapter 34: The Warrior

Riverspring
Elyana Sheeran

Elyana hated her tutor. She disliked numbers and court procedures, she craved adventure and the knowledge of the world around her. When Septa Cresta had her back turned, Elyana skipped out on her lesson and made her way to Maester Wylis' library, a favourite place of hers as the hundreds of books interested her.

The Maester was out seeing to other errands and so Elyana had the whole library to herself. She walked the aisles, trying to find a book that would satisfy her. Because Maester Wylis kept the library strictly organized, she had no choice but to remember the places of the books she already read as there were no titles on the spines. She soon found herself in the history section, this area of the library was home of the most books that she had already read. Elyana picked one of the books next to the one about Visneya Targaryen, a favourite of hers.

Ten Thousand Ships was the title of the book, the name intrigued Elyana, the thought of ten-thousand ships astonished her as no fleet in Westeros could boast even a quarter of those numbers. She took the book to the Maester's chair in the study, a comfy seat with a pillow filled with fine feathers. The book was about the famous Rhoynar Queen Nymeria who lead her people to Dorne many centuries ago. Each page was turning faster than the last, every new passage only compelled Elyana to read on.

​

The door opened. Elyana shut her book and carefully made her way back to where she found it, taking care not to make any noise. Footsteps surrounded her, there was no escape. Serving women blocked every avenue of escape, keeping Elyana in place until her brother Albin appeared.

"Elyana, what are you doing?" he asked.
"Reading," Elyana answered.
"You're supposed to be learning from Septa Cresta."
"She's boring! Can't I just read instead?"

Albin shook his head.

"You'll be marrying the Lord of the Stormlands in the future, you must learn how to be a lady of the court."
"Then give me a book about court, Septa Cresta is so old and boring."
"Books, books, books, it's all about books for you. Don't you want to meet new people? Or are you just shy?"
"I'm not shy!"
"Then go out and meet new the other children of the court, or you can go back to your lessons with Septa Cresta. Either way, go and learn to be a lady instead of this Maester's work."

The serving women lead Elyana out of the library, she followed them and showed how she felt about Allbin when she passed by. She decided to go meet the other children as it was at least better than the lessons she disliked so much. Deciding to prove her brother wrong, Elyana made many new friends and became quite popular.

​

Riverspring
Sylvia Sheeran

There was a council in progress within the keep, Sylvia could not attend so she decided to take a stroll around the castle. There was nothing that caught her attention until she reached the castle courtyard. She saw her sister Elyana hitting one of the wooden training dummies with a wooden stick she picked up off the ground. There was no technique, she simply launched a series of strikes in quick succession before stopping to catch her breath. The only witnesses to this were the guards, who seemed to be amused at the young lady's desire to practice swordplay.

​

"Elyana," Sylvia called.
"Sylvia!" she greeted, running to her sister with the stick still in her hands.
"What are you doing?"
"Practising."
"For what?"

Elyana did not answer, she stopped and looked around, a habit of hers whenever she needed to think.

"I don't know, but I like practising."
"What made you want to take up the sword?"
"I was reading an interesting book yesterday, it was about a queen named Nymeria from a land far away."
"And I take it she was a warrior queen considering your desire to practice."
"A great warrior queen, she led the Rhoynar people to Dorne and married Mors Martell, together they won over Dorne."
"That sounds like it'd be quite an incredible story, a shame I've never heard of it until now."
"If I marry Lord Royce Wagstaff of the Stormlands, then I must be a warrior so we can conquer together like Nymeria and Mors Martell."

​

Sylvia laughed.

"I cannot argue with that. But that is no sword, come, let us go get a wooden sword from the barracks."

The two sisters retrieved a wooden sword from the barracks and returned to the dummy that Elyana was attacking. The young lady had a harder time with a real weapon, her attacks were slow and heavy as the weight inhibited her. Despite this, Elyana continued on and even seemed to develop an actual technique, surprising everyone that watched her.

​

"This is so much more difficult than with a stick," Elyana complained while catching her breath.
"Fighting isn't easy, how do you think father felt?"
"I will keep practising, I already feel stronger!"

Sylvia laughed again.

"Keep that up and you may surpass every knight in Riverspring. Although, try not to do this when Albin is around," Sylvia warned.
"I know, Albin doesn't like me reading, he forced me to play with the other children when all I wanted to do was read."

Sylvia leaned forward so her face was of equal height to her sister.

"Your fourteenth nameday is not that far from now, soon, Albin will not be able to control you anymore."
"There's still time for me to practice, I will be a strong lady."

Elyana rested the wooden sword on her shoulder and smiled proudly. Sylvia messed up her sister's hair with her hand and laughed once more.

"I do not doubt that, but remember-"
"Albin mustn't know," Elyana mockingly replied.

The two ladies shared a giggle. Sylvia patted her sister on the shoulder.

"Your brother's council will end soon, make a few more swings, but then put away the sword quickly."
"Yes, Sylvia. And... thank you."

Sylvia smiled and went in for another round in Elyana's hair, temporarily irritating her before both of them were smiling again. Sylvia bid Elyana farewell and left her to continue attacking the training dummy. She looked back one last time and saw Elyana try to experiment with her attacks. Elyana made a flashy attack that failed, making her drop the sword, this prompted her to pick up the sword and take it back to the barracks before Albin could see her.

Sylvia hoped that her sister would never have to fight and see the horror of battle. She was reminded of that fight during her investigation into Lelia's Moon Tea usage. Sylvia did not enjoy the small encounter, she could barely imagine how horrific the giant battles her father had fought in would be. But if Elyana did ever find herself in a position to fight, at least Sylvia knew she was a lot more ready than most girls would be,

 

[stnylan]

Typical Albin not understanding.

 

[EmpireofOne]

Chapter 35: A Dance of Siblings

Riverspring
Albin Sheeran

Master-at-Arms Selmond had disturbed Albin during his afternoon stroll. The strolls were Albin's method of coping with the job of lord, he had developed it in the years since his daughters were born. There was a matter that required the lord's immediate attention in the council chamber. Albin was mad, but he also was curious what needed him so urgently. When he was near the council chamber, Ser Selmond stopped him, allowing Maester Wylis to meet Albin before heading into the chamber.

"What is it Maester?" Albin asked.
"My lord, a letter has come from Lord Middlebury," the Maester answered, handing Albin the sealed letter.
"This is for Alekyne, my sister's husband."
"My lord, he doesn't need to know," Ser Selmond said.

Albin unwrapped the letter and read the contents. He could not help but smile, he put the letter away and thanked the Maester for his diligence. For the first time in the five years since his father had died, Albin felt powerful, knowing something others did not.

"Ser Selmond."
"Yes, my lord?" Selmond asked.
"I'd like for you to take my nephew Dunaver on a hunting trip tomorrow, make sure he has fun."
"My lord?"
"There's no metaphor hidden in there, just go and make sure he enjoys himself."
"As you wish."

With his secret business done, Albin entered the council chamber followed shortly by Ser Selmond. Albin's council were already seated, everything was ordinary except for one thing, Sylvia was among the men. After adjusting to the fact Sylvia was intruding, he also noticed Spymaster Willard was not present.

"Sylvia? This is a council meeting, please leave," Albin demanded.
"My lord, Sylvia is the reason we called you here," Castellan Tyrek explained.
"What's going on?"
"Sylvia has presented a petition, a petition to replace Spymaster Willard Moatwell," Justiciar Tywold answered.
"Well, the man is getting old, I'll see if I can find a suitable replacement."
"Albin, I'm here to replace Willard with myself," Sylvia said.

​

"You? What makes you think you'd make a good spymaster?" Albin asked.
"I have many skills that would prove useful to our House if I am made Spymaster."

​

"Like what?"
"The fact you don't know speaks volumes of my abilities."
"The young lady does have a point," Tyrek said.
"Willard is getting old, maybe it is time to replace him," Ser Selmond agreed.
"Willard is old, yes, but a Spymaster does not need to be young and strong like the Master-at-Arms would," Tywold argued.

Even though Willard was not here, Albin knew Willard would defend his position, tearing his council in half with two men on each side making Albin the deciding vote.

"My lord, we await your decision, will your sister replace Willard Moatwell?" Tyrek asked.

Albin suddenly remembered the letter he had read from Lord Middlebury, the choice became very clear.

"Sylvia, Willard is old and I fear that soon he will be unable to continue his duties. While he still may have a year or two ahead of him, I would like the transition of the position to happen as early as possible," Albin declared.

Sylvia nodded.

"Thank you, Albin. I knew you'd see things from my position, I will serve our house as spymaster with the diligence of a thousand men."

The council except for Tywold were satisfied with the result. Sylvia tapped the table and smiled, Albin made sure to notice this behaviour.

Riverspring, Three Days Ago
Sylvia Sheeran

Sylvia was invited to meet at an Inn during the night on the road to Brent Brook. She was unsure of who she would be meeting so she had brought Reyna Crakehall and several trusted guards with her just to be safe. The Inn was mostly empty as the distance between Brent Brook and Riverspring was short enough to make the trip in a single day. The tavern maid approached Sylvia and her retinue.

"M'lady Sylvia, may I offer you and your friends somethin' to drink?"
"A small cup of wine for me and each of my partners. Oh, and take this, if anyone asks, I was never here," Sylvia instructed as she handed a small sack of coins to the tavern maid.

The tavern maid nodded and went to go get the drinks.

"Are you sure we should be here? It could be a trap," Reyna warned.
"People want Albin dead, not me, I am not afraid."

Sylvia noticed two men wearing hoods at the other end of the Inn. They both had swords and their table was empty.

"I see em' too m'lady, we'll protect you if they try anything," Sylvia's guard assured.

The tavern maid returned and placed cups of wine for everyone at Sylvia's table. One of Sylvia's guards was about to drink when she ordered him to stop, both of the hooded men stood up. The rest of the guards kept their hands on their swords but stood down when the hooded men revealed themselves to be Willard and Tywold.

"My lady," Willard greeted.
"Willard? Tywold? You're the ones that invited me here?"
"Yes, we need to talk without your Brother's eyes watching over us," Tywold answered.
"Ah, so we're here to discuss Albin."
"Yes, we are growing concerned about him," Willard said.

Sylvia looked around her.

"What concerns you?"

Willard and Tywold pulled some chairs and sat down with Sylvia and her party.

"Your father charged you to remove Albin if he were to take our house down a dangerous path. We also received instructions to assist you in that endeavour. Albin's yet to do anything requiring that, however the council that served Ed Sheeran is growing smaller every day," Willard explained.
"So Albin is aware of my father's order and is replacing everyone?"
"No, I don't think he is aware, but unfortunately his replacements will probably not carry out your father's order," Tywold answered.
"Ever since my brother replaced Cadwyn with Ser Selmond, I began thinking the same thing."
"I've seen that Selmond, he is like a dog to your brother, always at his side and always whispering in his ears," Reyna said.
"What are we to do?" Sylvia asked.
"It won't be long before both Willard and I die of old age or are replaced, it's an inevitability and soon Albin will be invincible," Tywold warned.
"I loathe the day that becomes reality," Reyna interjected.
"My lady, we need you to petition your brother to replace one of us, to prevent him from installing another person loyal to him alone," Willard said.
"You've both served my father and even my grandfather, it doesn't feel right replacing either of you."
"We're old men doing what we can while there's still time left. My lady, prepare your petition to replace either of us, we won't be mad about who you wish to replace," Tywold said.

Sylvia stopped to think about her options. She weighed the chances and results each would bring if she replaced either man. After some time and a sip from her cup of wine, she came to a decision.

"I will replace you, Willard. Tywold is an incredible Justiciar and Albin may still see use for him. But you, my lord, you are a threat to Albin, your abilities and network resemble that of Lord Varys the Spider during the time of Robert Baratheon and Daenerys' early reign. Albin most likely wants Willard out more."
"Such wisdom, gods, it reminds me of your father so much," Tywold praised.
"Enough with the sentimental thoughts, we've come to a decision, we should make haste back to Riverspring before we arouse any suspicion and make our preparations," Willard said.

Sylvia and the two men nodded. She left a few coins on the table to pay for the drinks and ordered her companions to get back to the horses so that they could return to Riverspring quickly. Sylvia thought about her new mission in her head, the first step in carrying out her father's last wish.

Riverspring, Four Days Later
Albin Sheeran

A carriage escorted by several knights had arrived in the courtyard of Riverspring keep. Albin came out to greet the men, he had been expecting them. The knight at the front of the column dismounted his horse and pulled off his helmet, revealing his face. He was young, but already had a scar across his left cheek, a battle scar.

"Lord Sheeran, my name is Ser Harlan Trentwood of Middlebury," he greeted.
"Ser Harlan, I'm glad you could come, they are ready for you," Albin greeted back.
"Over there, you can see I have the provisions and belongings they will be bringing with them," Albin said as he pointed at a pile of bags and tied parchment coverings.
"Men! Load the carriage."

Ser Harlan's knights got off their horses and helped secure the items onto the carriage, the sight was amusing to Albin as the men were in full plate mail carrying small bags and bundles. Alekyne Middlebury emerged from the keep accompanied by guards Albin sent to retrieve him.

"Albin, what are my father's knights doing here?"

Ser Harlan bent the knee in front of Alekyne.

"My lord, it is an honour to meet you. I wish we could meet under better circumstances, but your mother has passed away after a brief encounter with illness and you are now the Lord of Oakenshield."

​

"Oh, well, if you're here, then I should get packing."
"Dear brother-in-law, I've already ordered your things to be packed," Albin said, smiling.
"Really? Well thank you, I must go get your sister so we may leave for my lands."
"I've already sent men to get her."

Sylvia was brought to the courtyard, she was ahead of the guards and walked as if she was upset.

"Albin, why have my things been packed?" she asked angrily.
"Sylvia, this is Ser Harlan Trentwood, he will be escorting us to Oakenshield, I have inherited my mother's lands," Alekyne explained.
"What? Why was I not made aware of this?"
"You weren't aware? Well, that doesn't bode well for your position as my spymaster," Albin joked.
"I need more time to prepare, I must go get my son Dunaver."
"My lady, Alekyne's presence is required in Oakenshield immediately," Ser Harlan said.
"Then let him go on ahead, I will follow shortly. Albin, where is my son?"
"No, Sylvia, you're going with your husband. What kind of wife would you be abandoning your husband during an important time of his life?"
"I will go when I have my son."

Several of Albin's guards began moving behind Sylvia.

"I think Dunaver will stay here, he is a Sheeran boy, and all Sheeran boys have their place at Riverspring."
"You can't!" Sylvia said loudly as she ran toward Albin.

The guards grabbed her and Sylvia let out a great scream. They began dragging her to the carriage where Alekyne was already seated.

"I wish you well in your new life, Sylvia," Albin bid.
"Dunaver! Dunaver! Dunaver come to your mother!" Sylvia screamed as the men pushed her into the carriage.

One of Ser Harlan's knights did not have a horse and rode alongside the driver of the carriage, he decided to sit in the carriage in order to keep Sylvia from escaping. Sylvia continued screaming her son's name, piercing the ears of even the smallfolk outside. The driver of the carriage urged the two horses forward after Ser Harlan ordered the column to head back to the Reach. Even after some time, Albin swore he could still hear his sister's screams.

Ser Selmond had warned Albin about his sister, her desire to stay and at least take her son made him suspicious of her true motives. She had overstepped her boundaries when she petitioned for Willard to be replaced, she had become a threat to his rule in Riverpsring. Albin knew Sylvia would not admit defeat even if she were dragged to the lands of Asshai, he had Ser Selmond take his nephew on a hunting trip so that he would not be around to hear the screams of his mother. While he believed Sylvia was no longer a threat, keeping Dunaver as a ward in Riverspring guaranteed it.

 

[stnylan]

Does it? If I were Albin I would be afraid. He is becoming a petty tyrant nicely dominated by his favourites. A passing resemblance to Edward II.

 

[EmpireofOne]

Chapter 36: Plots and Power

Grassy Vale
Elyana Sheeran

The journey was long. It had only been a day since the carriage had crossed the border into The Stormlands from The Reach. Elyana was being escorted to The Stormlands so she could marry the Lord Paramount, Royce Wagstaff.

​

The young lady barely slept, taking in all the sights and sounds of the lands she passed in her carriage. With her was her sister's friend Reyna Crakehall, who Albin had charged to be Elyana's handmaiden. She wondered why her brother would separate the two, but Elyana was at least glad she would not be alone in her new home.

She watched the trees, they were nothing like the trees back home. Elyana swore that even the road on the ground was somehow different to the ones in The Westerlands. In the corner of her eye, she noticed Reyna was not bothering to look at anything, she stared blankly at the ground, the only time her face moved was to blink.

"You've been like that the entire time, talk to me," Elyana demanded.
"I'm sorry, my lady. I'm just not in the mood," Reyna answered.
"Why not?"
"Because of your little shit you call a brother, that's why."
"Albin's mean, but why are you so angry at him?"
"You don't know him like your sister and I do, he was a menace as a child."
"You're just sad he separated you and Sylvia."

Reyna almost looked like she was upset, but she retained her neutral expression and continued to stare at one place.

"Of course I'm sad he sent us apart, it was no accident he sent me and Sylvia as far away as he could."
"Oh come on, Albin isn't that smart," Elyana joked, lowering her head so Reyna could see her smile.
"He isn't but his new council, they're the smart ones. My father told me Willard and Tywold were the smartest men he ever met, yet, they were outwitted by Albin's new dogs."
"Would you like me to convince my husband to have this new council killed for you?"

Elyana could see a hint of a smile form on Reyna, she was getting through to the girl.

"Killing isn't the way, but thank you."
"If that's what you want."

Reyna's slight smile turned to a full one, she even began to laugh a little. Elyana joined in with short laughs of her own, hoping to keep her companion's mind away from the politics and deceit back home in Riverspring. Once the two were done laughing, Reyna joined Elyana in the watching the sights, admitting that the views were impressive.

Oakenshield
Sylvia Sheeran

Sylvia stared out her window, she watched the ships come and go in the harbour. It was a soothing sight, distracting her from the devastating defeat she was handed by Albin a fortnight ago. As much as she missed home, she had to admit The Reach was beautiful, and Oakenshield was a peaceful place to live. But it did not matter how beautiful or rich Oakenshield was, Albin was holding her son hostage.

The ships could no longer distract her, she was scared of what Albin would do to her son, she wondered if Dunaver was even aware he was being held hostage. Sylvia felt like she was winning back in Riverspring, but now she had no plans, she had no idea how this humble island would serve her in fulfilling her father's wish.

There was a knock on the door.

"My lady, letter from Riverspring," the voice on the other side said.

Sylvia made her way to the door and opened it, revealing the Maester of Oakenshield, Maester Welton.

"Thank you, Maester," Sylvia said as she took the letter from him.

The Maester bowed his head and bid Sylvia a good day before she closed the door. She ripped the seal open and found that it was a letter from Willard, along with a few attached parchments to go along with it. He reported that Albin had unexpectedly put him back in his position as spymaster despite the previous events. Willard's writing went on to say several things about the happenings of Riverspring while Sylvia was gone. The part that got Sylvia's attention was about the attached documents, Willard was getting desperate and had forged several love letters between Lelia Lannister and a man that did not exist.

He explained that he had no choice but to send the letters to Sylvia after Albin sent Ser Selmond to suddenly search Tywold's room. Willard was no longer in a position to plot, he entrusted everything to Sylvia and urged her to figure out a way to divide Albin from the Lannisters, as he soon would have alliances with two different Lord Paramounts.

Sylvia remembered how much Albin despised Lelia, and she also knew the feeling was mutual. She was aware that the two did actually had a child together for the sake of the house, but that was the only thing keeping the marriage together. After spending time to think, she thought of how to really hurt Albin and his alliance with the Lannisters. She began crafting an elaborate story, detailing how Albin's daughter was not truly his.

​

There were many things that she used to spin the tale. She remembered the previous use of Moon Tea, she argued that Lelia let the child live because it was the child of her lover. Sylvia crafted the identity of the man Lelia was seeing, another dwarf who sympathised with her, it was a way to explain Albin's daughter's dwarfism. Already Sylvia was building a strong foundation from which she would fabricate enough evidence to question the legitimacy of Albin's daughter. She did not let the momentum falter, her plotting went on long into the night, well beyond the time when the last ship of the day was entering the harbour.

Riverspring
Albin Sheeran

Albin was sitting under a tree in the courtyard of Riverspring keep. It was a quiet day, he had even decided not to call a council meeting. He had removed his sisters from his lands, he was the sole Sheeran in Riverspring. Along with that, his sister Elyana had finally gotten married to Lord Royce Wagstaff and pledged to help his brother-in-law in any way he could.

​

Albin had finally found peace, he was secure, he closed his eyes and breathed in the fresh air. But when he opened his eyes, he was met with the sight of his wife Lelia walking toward him. Her legs barely left the ground as they were so short, Albin had seen children walk better than his wife.

"Lord Sheeran," she greeted, it was the standard way she greeted him.
"What do you want?" Albin asked angrily.
"Our marriage has not been the strongest in all of Westeros."
"If there's a point to this conversation, get to it."
"Hmm, I thought you would want to savour a cordial conversation, but if you insist. I must say, the way you handled you handled Sylvia was quite impressive."
"So you're here just to praise me?"

The impish woman shook her head.

"I believe you, or at least your council is talented in matters of intrigue. I would like to make a proposal."
"What do you want?"
"Casterly Rock," Lelia said, not even hesitating to answer.
"Casterly Rock's garrison alone has more men than we have smallfolk, you're not going to get it."
"Need I remind you that my brother Tymos is childless and I am his heir by law?"
"Well, every child he will have puts you further and further from the succession."
"Which is why I need your help. We're going to kill Tymos so that I may inherit Casterly Rock."

​

"You make it sound easier than it actually is."
"Tymos is a spoiled little brat that loves to explore and put himself in the dirt. There will be many opportunities."
"Listen to yourself, not only do you want to kill your brother, you're also giving me advice on how to do it."

Lelia clenched her fists. Albin could tell she was losing her patience and enjoyed making his wife struggle in any way he could.

"All my life, I wanted to be the one to succeed my father. He was an imp just like me, we're also both smart and know how this world truly is. I was ready for the Rock, I wanted it. But then, my brother Tymos was born and stole it from me without a single plot or sword."
"It's almost incredible how much you want Casterly Rock."
"I'm not stupid, you want something out of this."
"Why yes, I would like some form of compensation for murdering the lord of the entire Westerlands."
"How about the both of us trying to make this marriage work?"

Albin shook his head, he almost spit in his wife's face for even making a joke about it.

"I'm not killing a child over something I can't put on a merchant's scale."
"I knew you wouldn't take that, no matter, I will be able to give you much power and gold once I take my place at the Rock. You've heard of the words, "A Lannister always pays his debts?""
"Why yes, but tell me something. Once you take the Rock, a Sheeran will inherit it, you would destroy generations of Lannister rule over your desire to rule it?"
"When the Sheerans inherit the Rock, I will be dead, I could not even care a little of what happens to it after I die."
"You're a cold bitch," Albin said bluntly.
"A cold bitch with your child."

​

"A child? Hopefully you give me a son."
"If I do have a son, I hope he would be in line to inherit Casterly Rock some day."
"Fine, I will see that Tymos is removed so you may become Lady of the Westerlands."
"I also knew you'd accept. If you do well, maybe this child will be born healthy."
"Don't even think about it, I'm doing what you want, don't you fucking dare let that child suffer."

Lelia was surprised. But then she smiled and clasped her hands in front of her waist.

"Then you'd best get to work, Lord Sheeran."

She turned around and returned to the keep. When she was gone, Albin slammed his fist into the dirt he was sitting on. He could not believe how evil his wife was, plotting to kill her brother and keeping Albin's unborn child as a hostage to ensure he went through with it. The young lord continued sitting under the tree, trying to regain the peace and quiet he had before his fateful encounter today. No matter how hard he tried, Lelia Lannister had ruined yet another good thing for Albin.

 

[Sailormarsfan1701]

ed sheeran.....i see what you did dere....you a fan?

 

[stnylan]

Albin continues to be dominated by those around him. As for the others, well they are alive. And in places where they may yet have a freedom to act they otherwise would not.

 

[EmpireofOne]

Chapter 37: The Old Guard

Riverspring
Albin Sheeran

"Damn it, Tyrek! You fool! What made you think they could be trustworthy?!" Albin yelled.

The council looked to Castellan Tyrek. He had recently invited a group of merchants after hearing of their exotic goods. However, the merchants were actually smugglers, using their identities as merchants as a front to bring in contraband and other goods that would be better off being discreet.

​

"I'm sorry, my lord. I didn't know," the bumbling old man tried to defend himself.
"Do you know what the guard found on one of them?"
"I..."
"Moon Tea! Fucking Moon Tea! Do you know what would happen if my pregnant wife got her hands on that Moon Tea?!"
"They didn't get much before we arrested them and chased out the rest."
"Do you know how it makes me look when smugglers run rampant in Riverspring? I look like a fool, and I am no fool."
"You're not a fool, you are a kind and ju-"
"Get out! Get out before I have you removed! Think about what you've done, and pray that my mood improves when we next meet."

Tyrek quickly got out of his chair and left the chamber. Albin slammed his fist on the table and threw himself into his seat, letting out a great sigh for the remaining council to hear.

"My lord, let us hang the smugglers and crucify them along the roads smugglers use, let it be a reminder of what fate comes to men who dare commit crimes in our lands," Ser Selmond suggested.
"After this council meeting, do exactly that, spread them out evenly enough that any future smugglers will see them from the border to the outskirts of my town," Albin ordered.

Ser Selmond nodded.

"As you wish."
"On to more important matters, my wife is heir to Casterly Rock, we need only get rid of Tymos Lannister and my children will inherit it after my wife dies."
"There are several lords that were displeased with Tyrion's rule, we may be able to convince them to join us in asserting Lady Lelia's claim," Spymaster Willard said.
"The Lord of Kayce in particular is not fond of Tymos, he will be a significant ally in the future," Justiciar Tywold suggested.
"We're not going to fight a rebellion, we're going to kill Tymos Lannister."

​

"Kill him? The Lord Paramount of The Westerlands will be heavily guarded, killing would not be easy."
"As Willard said, there are lords that were not happy under Tyrion Lannister, we can convince them to join our murder plot," Albin said.
"I said they'd be likely to join us in the fighting," Willard quickly replied.
"There won't be any fighting, at least not a war's worth of fighting, murder is the only way," Ser Selmond argued.

Albin could see that Willard and Tywold were not pleased with where the conversation was going. He expected loyalty out of his councillors, not the insolence they were displaying right now.

"Willard, you have an agent in Lannisport and Casterly Rock, am I correct?" Albin asked.
"Yes, I do."
"Then have them meet with the lords you know that aren't loyal to Tymos and convince them to help kill him."
"With all due respect, my lord, I am no murderer."
"I beg your pardon?"
"I'm not a killer, Albin."

Albin clenched his fists and laid them on the table.

"What do you mean you're not a killer? You're a spymaster!"
"A spymaster, not an executioner. I am a purveyor of information, not a dagger hidden beneath a cloak."
"You dare defy an order from your lord?"
"I'm simply telling you that I am no murderer, especially of a child."
"You served my father for twenty years, and now you show disloyalty?"
"Your father never ordered me to kill anyone."

Albin slammed his fist on the table!

"If I order you to kill someone, you kill them!"
"No," Willard said, standing up.

Ser Selmond kept his hand near his sword, watching Willard carefully.

"You are a member of my council! You follow the orders of your lord!"
"Aye, as a councillor, I have to follow your orders. But I am free to resign from my position," Willard argued as he pulled his spymaster's pin off his robes.
"What? You can't!"

Willard threw the pin onto the table, it landed right in front of Albin between his two clenched fists.

"I can and I will, here boy. You might as well melt it down because unless you can bring Lord Varys back from the dead, you'll never find a better spymaster than me."
"I order you to stay here and do your duty!"
"Eat shit and die, Albin. I'll be sure to tell your father how much of a little cunt you've become."

Willard quickly made his exit and slammed the doors shut.

"Fuck!" Albin yelled, slamming his fists on the table once more

He continued slamming the table and yelling profanities, his hands were dangerously close to the sharp pin on the table. Ser Selmond took the pin away before Albin slammed his hands on it.

"My lord?" Ser Selmond inquired.
"How dare he? After all his years of serving my father."
"He had his reasons, my lord. Murder was never one of Willard's duties," Tywold said, trying to calm Albin.

Albin suddenly realized Willard would most likely leave the castle, he also remembered that Willard was privy to the murder plot. He could not allow Willard to leave with information that could see Albin sent to the gallows.

"Ser Selmond, Willard Moatwell cannot leave this castle, he knows too much."
"As you wish," Selmond acknowledged and stood up from his seat.
"Willard will already have left the castle by now, my lord," Tywold said.

Albin kicked one of the legs of the table out frustration.

"Selmond, you are to go to the Moatwell estate and find him, take his wife and children in for questioning if he's not there."
"I will go immediately."
"Wait, Ser Selmond! The Moatwell family is innocent, arrest Willard, but spare his family of the trouble," Tywold pleaded.
"Willard condemned his family the moment he showed his disloyalty. You'd best sit down, Tywold. I might want Selmond to also visit the Yellowbrook estate."
"My lord!" Tywold yelled, before finally sitting down.

Tywold was looking down at the table, refusing to look Albin in the eye. Ser Selmond nodded at Albin and left quickly to pursue Willard before word of the murder plot could spread. Albin quietly dismissed the council and left Tywold alone as he left the chamber. He could not understand why his council was being so difficult, all of the meetings he observed in his father's time were filled with competent and loyal men. But now, the council was a disloyal and foolish bunch, the only man he could trust was Ser Selmond.

Tysha was seen down the hall and began approaching Albin. Albin could also trust Tysha, even if she was willing to receive a sack of gold to betray the woman she was handmaiden to. She had been doing the job Albin had payed her to do diligently, ensuring Lelia would never use Moon Tea ever again. He expected her to report to her on the pregnancy, Lelia was due any day now.

"M'lord," Tysha greeted.
"Tysha, do you have good news for me?" Albin asked.
"Your wife has given birth to a child, m'lord."
"Finally, some good news on this horrible day."
"She has been named Joanna, m'lord."

​

"Joanna? A daughter? Damn, I wanted a son. Is she a dwarf like her older sister?"
"No m'lord, she is a healthy little girl."
"Then there's hope for her yet."

 

[EmpireofOne]

ed sheeran.....i see what you did dere....you a fan?

I'll listen to his songs if they come on the radio, but I'm not going to his concerts anytime soon. This AAR was started because of his cameo in the season seven premier of the HBO Game of Thrones series.

 

[Twighlight Array 17]

Well, Albin certainly has come a long way from the bumbling, naive, but basically decent person he was at the start of his rule. Sycophants, powers, jealousy, fear, and a nasty, nasty wife can do that to a person.

 

[stnylan]

His descent continues.

It is really a fascinating journey.

 

[EmpireofOne]

Chapter 38: A Great Stain

Storm's End
Elyana Sheeran

Lord Royce Wagstaff of The Stormlands mounted his horse. While technically not at war, he had called the banners. Dorne had declared open rebellion against Daenerys Targaryen, once again trying to reinstate Joffrey who had escaped Tyrion Lannister's prison after his death with the help of his mother Cersei Lannister.

​

Elyana stood at Royce's side, seeing him off before he left with his retinue. Alongside Elyana was Reyna Crakehall, her handmaiden.

"Why don't you just declare for Daenerys? She always wins," Elyana asked.
"If I were to join the rebels, we would control the entire south," Royce argued.
"And if you join Daenerys she will win much quicker."
"You're far too young to understand the politics of this land."
"You're not that much older than me," Elyana snarled as she rested her hands on her hips.

Royce laughed.

"True. I simply wish to gather my vassals and see who they want to support, have no fear, my love, most will probably want to side with Daenerys anyways."
"Will you fight?"
"When the time comes. But stay your fears, I shall come home so I may see the second child you will give me."

Elyana rubbed her belly which was starting to grow from weeks of being pregnant.

"Is that a promise?"
"I intend for my promises to be worth all the gold in the land."
"Well, at least wait a bit before getting yourself killed, I think it's going to be a boy this time."
"That is wonderful! I wish I could stay longer, my love, but I must join my bannermen before they wonder where I am."
"Farewell, my love."

Royce yelled for his retinue to follow as he urged his horse forward. The men followed quickly behind the lord who had a considerable lead. Elyana walked to the gate of the keep and watched her husband and his men ride into the distance. She turned to Reyna and suddenly felt movement in her stomach.

"My lady?" Reyna asked, concerned.
"It's nothing, Reyna. My son's going to be a warrior, I can feel it."
"The second coming of Robert Baratheon he'll be."

The two ladies laughed. Reyna began helping Elyana back inside the keep so that she may rest for the remainder of the day.

Oakenshield
Sylvia Sheeran

Sylvia waited at the docks with her husband Alekyne. She had received an anonymous letter that stated the author would be heading to Oakenshield. Accompanying the pair were a few knights led by Ser Harlan Trentwood who was ordered by Lord Middlebury to guard Alekyne. Sylvia did not ask her husband to join her, but he was interested, and offered his time to greet her guest.

"Our guest will be here soon," Sylvia said.
"I wonder who it is, maybe it's your old friend Reyna," Alekyne suggested.
"She is handmaiden to my sister, Albin made sure we would never see each other again."
"Hmph, I didn't think he could be so cruel until you told me about the things he did, I had no idea."
"It's too late for that now."
"I never did say my apology. I'm sorry, Sylvia, I should've done something when I heard you screaming for your son. But Ser Harlan..."
"My lord, if you wished for me to slay Albin Sheeran on that day, I would've done so without hesitation, even with the knowledge that all of Riverspring would come upon me," Ser Harlan said.

Sylvia smiled, as much as she missed her home and son, the hospitality and loyalty of Oakenshield's people settled her in nicely. A ship finally entered the harbour and began making preparations for goods and crew to disembark. A hooded man walked down the ramp, his strides were slow and he almost lost his balance on the flimsy piece of wood.

"Who is that?" Alekyne asked.
"Ser Gellen, demand that man remove his cloak immediately," Ser Harlan ordered.

The knight rushed ahead and kept his sword hand ready. Sylvia gasped when the man removed his cloak and revealed himself to be Willard Moatwell.

"Ser Gellen, stand down! He's a friend," Sylvia yelled.

She ran over and wrapped her arms around the old man. He almost fell over and let out a hearty laugh.

"It is good to see you again, Lady Sylvia," he greeted.
"Willard! It's been so long!" Alekyne greeted as he came over.
"Lord Alekyne, I am also glad to see you."
"How is my son?" Sylvia asked, wanting an immediate and truthful answer.

Willard frowned slightly, it was obvious he was going to say something that would upset Sylvia.

"He has not been harmed, my lady. Although, Albin has subtly crafted a narrative that says you simply abandoned him."
"That bastard! But, Dunaver is unharmed, that is what matters."
"Willard, what brings you here?" Alekyne asked.
"We need to follow through with your father's wishes now, he is gambling the lives of every member of House Sheeran as we speak."
"Is it that serious?"
"He plans to murder the Lord of Casterly Rock."
"Seven Hells!" Alekyne yelled.
"It is his wife Lelia's doing, Albin is not that ambitious," Sylvia argued.
"You're correct, my lady. As Lelia is the heir to Casterly Rock, she has manipulated Albin into plotting to murder Tymos Lannister."

Sylvia clenched her fist in front of her chest.

"And if things go wrong, she can simply deny it and throw House Sheeran to the dogs. That bitch."
"Aye, which is why we need to make our move now, our hesitation could mean the extermination of all Sheerans still in the Westerlands, and that includes young Dunaver."
"That monster, holding a poor innocent child in the middle of his plots and intrigues, I would cut his head off with my own sword if I could," Ser Harlan declared.
"If there's anything I can do to help, please, do not hesitate to ask," Alekyne promised.
"Thank you, Alekyne, you are a bright light in these dark times," Sylvia said.
"I will leave you two, I shall have a room prepared for Willard and his family. Ser Harlan, come with me."

Alekyne left with Ser Harlan who took several guards with him. The few guards assigned to Sylvia stood at some distance, respecting the private conversation.

"Your family, where are they?" Sylvia asked.

Willard frowned again, he looked down at the ground.

"I, I had to leave immediately. If I went to get my family, Ser Selmond would have caught me," Willard answered.
"You sacrificed your family so that you could come here to warn me about Albin's plot?"
"I watched your father take House Sheeran from a fledgling and confused house, to a regional power in its own right. I will not let your little cunt of a brother destroy everything I helped to build."

Sylvia was almost shocked at this new Willard, it was the first time she heard him use such profanity. She was humbled, Willard had placed his loyalty to House Sheeran above the safety of his own wife and children.

"Willard, I will never forget your loyalty."

Willard bent the knee in front of Sylvia.

"Sylvia Sheeran, allow me to reaffirm my oath to House Sheeran. I am and will always be loyal to your father, Lord Ed Sheeran. I am not long for this world, but even if I were to die tomorrow, I would die serving House Sheeran to my dying breath. I will use what resources and strength I have left to help you in fulfilling Lord Ed's final wish."

Sylvia began tearing up. She lowered herself to Willard's height and embraced him.

"There's not a man in all of Westeros who is as loyal as you are Willard. I thank you, my father thanks you."
"Wipe the tears from your face, my lady. We have work to do."

Sylvia quickly wiped her face with the sleeve of her dress.

"Yes, our first move should be to write a warning to Tymos Lannister. If we warn him of Albin's plans, he may be willing to spare us and Dunaver."
"No need to trouble yourself, my lady. A raven is already on its way to Casterly Rock."
"Then, let us think of our next move. Here, let me take you to the keep so you can get settled."

Sylvia helped the old man walk up the hill from the harbour to the keep where Alekyne and Ser Harlan were already waiting for them.

Riverspring
Albin Sheeran

Albin's new Spymaster, Lucion Egelston was preparing his report. Everyone had expected Albin to designate Lucion to be his new Castellan after removing Tyrek, but he surprised everyone by appointing him spymaster. His replacement for Tyrek was Master Stafford, an old enemy of his father which made many uneasy.

"My lord, we prepared a few traps for Lord Tymos, Lord Dake of Kayce had some of his men infiltrate Casterly Rock while a few others have hired the Master of the Hunt to kill Tymos on a trip," Lucion reported.

​

"Very good, I was right to replace Willard with you," Albin said proudly.
"Tymos Lannister will soon take a bride, we must kill him quickly before he has children of his own," Ser Selmond warned.
"We should hear word from our allies soon, we can only wait," Lucion said.
"Think Lady Lelia will make me Castellan of The Rock?" Stafford joked.
"Tymos will have to die first before that even becomes a possibility," Justiciar Tywold said.
"Ah fuck you, Tywold. The plan's going to work, we have plenty of supporters."
"Yes, my allies will kill Tymos and my children will be the heirs to Casterly Rock, father would be so proud of me," Albin declared.

Albin watched Tywold carefully and gauged his reaction. Tywold may have been aware of Albin's staring as he suppressed any real reaction.

"The plan was set in motion many days ago, we should have received word yesterday," Lucion said.
"I will be patient, there is no way Tymos could survive a plot of this size. The wait for news of success will be worth it," Albin said, smiling.

The Maester's chain announced itself outside the door. Maester Wylis abruptly opened the doors and stormed into the chamber.

"My lord, a raven arrived with a letter, it says it's urgent."

The Maester jogged around the table and handed the letter to Albin. The words "urgent" were written on the outside of the letter. Albin ripped the seal and began reading. It was from Lord Dake of Kayce who was reporting on the fate of Tymos Lannister. He described how Tymos was somehow aware of the plot and managed to evade both attempts on his life with ease.

Tymos' guards ambushed Lord Dake's infiltrators when they attempted to throw Tymos off the parapets.

​

And Tymos' hunting trip became a sudden interrogation when guards hiding in the forest seized the Master of the Hunt.

​

Lord Dake warned Albin that the plan may have been leaked before the attempts were even made. He also warned that his spies in the court reported that Tymos' eyes had turned to Riverspring, what Tymos would do, Lord Dake did not know.

"Impossible..." Albin said, his hands trembling with the letter still in his grip.
"It's failed then," Lucion said, not even having to read the letter to know what had happened.
"What happened? The plan was perfect!" Stafford complained.
"Someone must have told him about the plan, there's no other way," Ser Selmond suggested.
"Someone did warn Lord Tymos, a traitor has condemned House Sheeran to death," Albin said.
"Who could have betrayed us?" Stafford asked.
"Tywold, you say nothing and have shown disloyalty to Lord Albin in the past, you warned Tymos!" Ser Selmond yelled as he stood up and drew his sword.

Tywold got out of his seat and retreated to the wall of the chamber, giving him distance from Ser Selmond and his sword. Lucion joined the men in standing and stood in front of Tywold.

"Tywold didn't betray us, don't be so rash," Lucion said.
"He's right, Tywold did not warn Tymos, Willard did," Albin said, slamming his fist on the table.
"Where could that slippery bastard have gone?" Stafford asked.
"If I ever get my hands on him, I'd give him the most gruesome death I could imagine," Ser Selmond declared.
"The damage is done, your reputation has suffered, my lord," Tywold said.

Albin kicked the leg of the table and exclaimed loudly.

"Not being the traitor that warned Tymos doesn't absolve you of your disloyalty," Albin warned.
"I was against this plot, and now, you've tarnished the good name of House Sheeran," Tywold said.
"Shut your mouth, traitor. What's to be done with this one, my lord?" Ser Selmond asked as he raised his sword up, disregarding that Lucion was still in his path.
"My lord, allow Tywold to show his loyalty, give him a task and he will diligently perform his duties out of loyalty to House Sheeran," Lucion suggested.

Albin tried to calm himself. His spymaster's counsel was wise.

"Yes, you're right. My reputation is in ruins and I now need my Justiciar more than ever. Tywold, prove your loyalty to me by putting those diplomatic skills of yours to use. Repair my reputation, spend day and night making me a reputable lord of the Westerlands again."

Lucion got out of the way so Albin could see Tywold's reaction.

"My lord, you're asking me to do a task that could take years, we may see hundreds of generations of Sheerans before your reputation as a dishonourable man is forgotten."
"Then you have your work cut out for you, best get started now," Stafford said bluntly.
"My lord!" Tywold yelled.
"You will do your duty! Or does Ser Selmond need to take a few guards to see how Yellowbrook Manor is doing?" Albin threatened.
"No, I will do what is asked of me," Tywold said.

Albin could see the tears and displeased expression on Tywold's face, his weakness was the fledgling house he spent years to build up. Tywold almost looked like he would start bawling like a child, it was obvious he was not satisfied with his current task, but Albin simply did not care.

 

[stnylan]

Well, it wasn't like we couldn't see that coming.

Albino really creating his own nightmare isn't he? And with Sylvia away ... bad move. Whilst Sylvia wishes her child safe, I believe her loyalty to family is broader than a single life.

 

[Twighlight Array 17]

I wonder how long it will take before Albin is rotting in a dungeon cell...

 

[EmpireofOne]

Chapter 39: An Unexpected Turn

Oakenshield
Sylvia Sheeran

Sylvia was sitting in her chamber with Willard, they were discussing their plot to weaken Albin's position. It was a race against time, Tymos Lannister evaded two attempts on his life, his retribution would be swift and horrific to all of House Sheeran.

"Even without the Lannisters, Albin still has an alliance with Royce Wagstaff. Once the rebellion against Daenerys is over, he will be in a position to help Albin," Willard warned.
"The only way we can end his alliance with Royce is to divorce him and my sister, I love Elyana too much to get in the way of her marriage," Slyvia said.
"Oakenshield has a considerable army, and if we gathered a few sellswords..."
"My father worked too hard to make Riverspring and Brent Brook prosperous for it to be ravaged by armies and battle."
"Of course, my lady, it was foolish of me to even think that."

There was a knock at the door. Sylvia got up and went to greet whoever was knocking. When she opened the door, she saw Maester Welton and her friend Reyna Crakehall.

"Reyna!" Sylvia greeted in shock.

The two hugged in the doorway, blocking the Maester from entering the room.

"Master Willard, a letter for you," he said.

Willard stood up and moved his old bones to the door. Sylvia grabbed the letter out of the Maester's hand and gave it to Willard. The Maester bid Sylvia a good day and closed the door.

"Master Willard? What are you doing here?" Reyna asked.
"I could ask the same to you, I thought you were Elyana's handmaiden."
"How is my sister?"

Reyna hesitated, Sylvia had gotten so much bad news in the past few years that she knew all the signs.

"The reason I'm here, I'm here because Elyana died giving birth to her son."

​

Sylvia sat down and pondered the words of her friend.

"I curse all the gods!" she screamed, throwing around anything that was not weighed down. "How is it that Albin lives yet my innocent sister had to die?!"
"Elyana wanted me to come here, it was her last wish. She wanted us to be together again."

Sylvia wiped the tears from her face and sniffled.

"Such a sweet young girl, she only deserved happiness."
"I'm here for you, always," Reyna assured.

Sylvia turned to Willard who was reading the letter the Maester gave him.

"What is it, Willard?" Sylvia asked.
"Tywold was forced to work day and night for your brother after his reputation was ruined. The poor man died a few days ago from the stress, our last loyal friend on Albin's council is gone."
"Damn him, Tywold was nothing but loyal to my father, and this is the reward Albin saw fit to give him?"
"It cannot be helped, I haven't heard from Cadwyn for a few days now."
"Oh, Master Cadwyn! When I was looking for a ship to come here, I saw him and we travelled together. But..."
"But what? Where is he?" Sylvia asked.
"He had gotten ill and died on the way. I tried to tell the crew to keep his body, I swear it. But they threw his body overboard."
"Damn them, if that ship is still in the harbour, I will tell Alekyne to burn it down and put the crew to the sword."

Willard rested his hand on his chin.

"Poor Cadwyn, Lord Ed raised us up to different noble houses, but he was still my brother. But, Reyna, why was he coming here?" Willard asked.
"Ser Selmond surrounded his estate, Cadwyn's son Norbert helped him sneak out while he lead one last defence. He was coming to join you, Sylvia."
"All these loyal men, dying lonely and horrible deaths because of Albin. I will not forgive him for this."
"With Elyana gone along with Cadwyn and Tywold, we're all that's left of those loyal to your father," Willard told Sylvia.
"Alekyne and Ser Harlan will help us, but you're right, we're the only ones truly loyal to House Sheeran."
"I mean no disrespect, my lady, but now that Elyana is dead, the alliance between Royce Wagstaff and Albin cannot be sustained."
"No, Willard, you are right, without the backing of the Stormlands, Albin is in a bad position."
"Even if it was just us three, we can defeat Albin, I know there's still justice in this world," Reyna declared.
"After what happened to my sister, I'm not so sure about that."

There was a brief silence. Willard quickly changed the subject and continued the discussion about a plan to remove Albin from power. Sylvia wanted to continue the fight, but she knew the situation was grim considering the entirety of her support was with her in this room.

Riverspring
Albin Sheeran

Albin was in a good mood. A month ago, Lelia had finally given birth to a son, a boy named Dale.

​

He finally had his heir, and he felt pride at giving his late father a grandson that guaranteed the line of Ed would continue on. The proud lord was especially glad that Dale would be the one to inherit Casterly Rock after Lelia's death, removing the need of careful matrilineal marriages to keep The Rock in the hands of House Sheeran. Tymos Lannister's death would mark the beginning of a golden age for House Sheeran, at leas that was what Albin believed in his head.

Albin and Ser Selmond watched the household guard train in the courtyard. Some were sparring while others were alone training with a practice dummy. Most of these men were recruits who were beginning to replace the old men that served Lord Ed. They were instructed and supervised by the older men that were still in service, showing off techniques and offering their wisdom.

"Ser Selmond! Why don't you join us?!" a younger recruit yelled.
"I could send you to the dirt without even having to draw my sword!" Ser Selmond laughed.
"I think I would like to join in," Albin said, stepping forward.

Everyone stopped what they were doing. Albin grabbed a wooden sword off the rack and looked around at all the recruits.

"M'lord, your Master-at-Arms can train with you," an older soldier said.
"As he said, he could send a man down without drawing his sword, I think I'll spar with you," Albin answered as he pointed at a recruit.
"M-m'lord," the recruit stumbled.

Albin positioned himself in front of the recruit and readied a stance while the recruit also prepared himself. Albin saw the man favoured his right so Albin launched a strike at his left. The young man barely defended himself and Albin scored a hit.

"Come on, if this is the standard for my personal guards, I will find myself dead within the week, defend yourself!" he taunted.
"My lord, the men fear that harming you could bring consequences," Ser Selmond suggested.
"Men, what will a wooden sword do other than bruise me? Show me how you fight! I swear that none of you will be harmed if you send me to the dirt, at least right at this moment."

Some men laughed and everyone began easing up. Suddenly, the recruits Albin sparred with became even more difficult to defeat. He enjoyed himself, the men showed him their skills and revealed their secrets when they sent him to the dirt.

​

Albin was being helped up by one of his guards when he saw his wife Lelia angrily stomping her way toward Albin.

"Your wife is coming, my lord," Ser Selmond warned.
"And I was just enjoying myself," Albin silently joked to Ser Selmond.

The two snickered but stopped when Lelia was within speaking distance.

"Lady Lelia," Ser Selmond greeted.
"Lelia, wha-" Albin said before being interrupted.
"I need you to stop," Lelia demanded.
"It's only a few bruises, so glad to see that you care though."
"No you idiot, I need you to stop plotting to kill my brother."
"I beg your pardon? You were the one that wanted me to kill him in the first place."
"We can't stop, your brother wants Lord Albin dead for what happened," Ser Selmond explained.

Albin looked down even more and saw the dwarf clench her fists.

"I can protect you from my brother, I have influence, I just need you to stop."
"What's gotten into you? You hit your head recently?" Albin asked.
"I just got word from the Maester of Casterly Rock. According to the laws of succession, Casterly Rock will pass over me and be given to Dale upon Tymos' death."

​

Albin's eyebrows raised up as high as they could upon hearing her reason. He was prepared for a long term plan that involved House Sheeran rising up to The Rock, but now, he was in a position to grant House Sheeran Casterly Rock immediately.

"You wanted me to kill Tymos, I shall kill him."
"No, I wanted you to kill Tymos so I would get Casterly Rock, I don't want him to die knowing I will never get The Rock."
"You are nothing but a treacherous whore, willing to sell out your brother for a castle. And now, with the castle off the table, you act like you're innocent," Ser Selmond berated.
"How dare you speak to me like that, keep your man in check!"
"Why? He is right, you are a treacherous little dwarf. I've dug myself into a hole that is too deep, I would rather dig to the other side than try to climb back up."
"Albin, you can't! I cannot protect you if you kill my brother! Your house will burn to the ground," Lelia threatened.

It was the first time Lelia said Albin's name for as long as he could remember. After all the manipulation and torment, Albin was in the position of power.

"Why do I need you protect myself, if Dale Sheeran becomes Lord of The Westerlands?" Albin asked, not hiding his smile from his wife.
"Fuck you, Albin! I will not let you take The Rock from the Lannisters!" Lelia screamed as she ran toward Albin.

It did not take much effort for Albin to push her away, she fell to the dirt and screamed again.

"Take her away and lock her in her room, I'm done talking to her."

The guards dropped their wooden swords and grabbed Lelia. They lifted her up by the arms and carried her away from Albin, the sight was amusing but Albin kept his composure.

"Let me go! Let me go! You will regret this! A Lannister always pays his debts!" Lelia screamed, kicking at the air around her as the guards continued taking her away.

Albin leaned over to Ser Selmond.

"Ensure that she and my son are well guarded, no matter what, my son must live."
"As you wish, my lord. But what about your daughters?"

Albin took a second to think about it.

"They're not the heirs to Casterly Rock, if the bitch wants to kill them, let her do it, Dale is the future of House Sheeran. My dwarf of a daughter and her sister are pawns, expendable means to an end."
"I will see to your son's protection personally, my lord."
"I wish my sister was still alive, I would have liked to keep my alliance with Royce Wagstaff. But once Tymos Lannister is dead, we will never need him again."
"Soon all the houses of The Westerlands will bow to House Sheeran."
"My father would be proud, no, he would be envious. In his life he took only Brent Brook, in my life, I will take all of The Westerlands. I am truly the greatest Sheeran to ever live."

 

[stnylan]

Oh Albin.

Sylvia is not having the best of times.

And Dale ... not the only Dale who is heir to Casterly Rock and son to someone not entirley well-hinged in AARs right now.

 

[EmpireofOne]

Chapter 40: Moving Forward

Riverspring
Albin Sheeran

Ser Selmond had requested Albin's presence in the council chamber. Albin trusted Ser Selmond, and so he went even though he had other plans for today. When he entered the chamber, he was met by Ser Selmond, Castellan Stafford, and Spymaster Lucion. The council table had been covered with a giant map, Albin recognized it to be the area around Riverspring.

"My lord," Ser Selmond greeted.
"Selmond, what are we doing?" Albin asked.
"Our allies will soon be making another attempt on Tymos Lannister's life in a month's time, should we succeed, your son Dale will inherit Casterly Rock. However, there will be many that disapprove of a new house taking over, you will most likely be at the head of the loyalists and therefore need practice in the art of war," Lucion explained as he walked over to the table.
"So we decided to set this up, so we can practice together," Stafford said.

​

"An excellent initiative, I've yet to fight a battle like my father has, so I need all the practice I can get," Albin said.

The men gathered around the table where the map and many wooden pieces were laid out. All of them were carved by hand, there were knights, swordsmen, and archers.

"So, how we splitting the teams?" Stafford asked.
"I will be judging and observing the battle, Master Stafford, you will join our lord in defending against Lucion's army," Ser Selmond answered.

​

"Damn, I hate defending, too much waiting around."
"We must all be adept at defending if we are to defend our lands against any invasion," Albin replied.
"You're right, let's send Lucion's men running for the hills."

Lucion laughed.

"There is a large hill on the battlefield, I might just run for that first."
"Allow me to prepare the scenario," Ser Selmond said.

Ser Selmond began distributing pieces to the two sides and positioned the armies. Lucion's force was slightly larger but was comprised of mainly infantry with light cavalry and archer support. Albin's army was more balanced in its roles, but it had the disadvantage in numbers. The armies were some distance apart, a hill stood in between the two armies making it the determinant in who would win or lose the engagement.

"I wish you good fortune in battle, my lord," Lucion said.
"Good luck to you as well, Lucion."
"Don't wish him luck, my lord, he just might get it," Stafford joked.
"I will give the attackers the first move," Ser Selmond announced.

Lucion wasted no time, he began pushing his giant army of infantry as far as Ser Selmond would allow toward the hill.

​

The defenders started closer to the hill, but did not have the men to contest the ground if it was taken. Albin decided to move without consulting his ally, he moved his archers and cavalry ahead first, as they were allowed to move further than the infantry. Lucion had kept his own archers and cavalry behind the main line, ensuring Albin's forces would reach the top of the hill first.

Lucion tried to respond quickly but Albin's troops managed to reach the top of the hill first. He began skirmishing with the infantry trying to climb the hill, Ser Selmond informed Lucion that his troops would move slower unless he could mitigate the barrage.

"Getting to the top of the hill's the easy part, now we have to hold it," Stafford said, eyeing the board.
"As long as I can get my infantry up the hill safely, then this battle will be mine," Lucion said.

Stafford leaned over to Albin so he could whisper.

"He's right, maybe we should make a forced march up the hill while our archers can still slow them down."

​

"Our troops would be tired, would they be able to fight?"
"They'll fight a lot better than if Lucion took the high ground."
"Alright, we will make a forced march to send our infantry up the hill," Albin announced to his opponent and judge.
"Are you sure, my lord? Your troops will be quite tired after making the climb," Ser Selmond asked.
"Yes, I'm sure of it, we must take the high ground."

Albin moved his troops to the top of the hill, just in time as Lucion was within range to move his infantry to the top on his turn. Despite the volley of arrows and the defenders having the high ground, Lucion launched a full-frontal assault. The fighting was fierce, as Ser Selmond was taking away pieces every turn, but after many exchanges, Albin and Stafford's men prevailed and Lucion was forced to retreat.

​

"A good battle, my lord," Lucion congratulated.
"Wish you talked to me before launching that first attack, but we won, so I'm not mad," Stafford said.
"Thank you for the opportunity, I had a great amount of fun."
"My lord, you fought well, we hope you will be able to replicate those successes should a real battle come," Ser Selmond praised.
"Only with more practice will I be able to become a better tactician. Ser Selmond, prepare another scenario for me tomorrow."
"As you wish, I will try to make it an interesting one."
"Oh please do, I will become a great commander, so that I can lead my armies against anyone that would stop House Sheeran's ascent to Casterly Rock."

Oakenshield
Sylvia Sheeran

Sylvia cradled her son in her arms. A week ago, she gave birth to another son whom she named Ermond.

​

The Maester and serving women warned that the boy was sickly and might not survive his first month. Sylvia had lost her father, her first love, and her first son, she refused to lose anymore that she cared for. She had retreated from the plotting and scheming with Willard and Reyna to ensure that young Ermond would make it through the month.

The child had a fever. Sylvia had placed a blanket soaked with cold water over his forehead, keeping him cool. While Ermond was suffering, he had somehow found peace and was sleeping quietly. Sylvia had forgotten about her dispute with Albin for the moment, focusing every fibre in her being on an opportunity that was stolen from her. Ermond woke and began crying when there was a loud knock on the door. The door opened, revealing Willard and Reyna who invited themselves inside.

"You've woken Ermond," Sylvia complained.
"Gods, I'm so sorry," Reyna aplogized.

Reyna approached Sylvia and whispered a greeting to Ermond, the words and tone vaguely reminded Sylvia of the times she had with her father and mother. Willard stood behind Reyna and simply looked at the child.

"What's happened? Why do you come here so suddenly?"
"My lady, my agents say that the plot to murder Tymos Lannister is preparing for another attempt and will be ready by the end of the month," Willard reported.
"Have you warned Tymos?"
"Of course we warned him, but something else is going on," Reyna said.

Sylvia rocked the child carefully, finally calming him from his loud crying.

"And what is that?"
"Your nephew Dale Sheeran stands to inherit Casterly Rock once Tymos is killed," Willard answered.
"Are you certain?"
"Since there are no male heirs in Tyrion's line, Lelia Lannister will be skipped over in favour of your nephew."

Sylvia stopped rocking Ermond. The thought of House Sheeran rising to Casterly Rock conflicted her thoughts.

"I never thought I would live to see the day our house would inherit The Rock," Sylvia said.
"Albin will do everything in his power to make sure Dale becomes Lord Paramount," Reyna warned.
"Yes, and he will surely make many enemies doing so, enemies that will look to destroy House Sheeran," Willard said.
"I'd be lying if I said my father wouldn't be happy to see his family become that powerful."
"As great as it sounds, my lady, House Sheeran is not rich or powerful enough to hold The Rock. Even if Dale survived all the way to his sixteenth nameday, he would still not be in a good position," Willard warned.
"You're right, Albin is moving too quickly, barely over thirty years ago my father was struggling to keep our house together in an age of war. Houses can only rise up so fast with the backing of others, not on its own merit."

Reyna was playing with her fingers in front of Ermond, making the child smile.

"How are you doing on those letters and evidence?" Reyna asked.
"I believe we have everything we need."
"Good, we should head to Riverspring immediately," Willard said.

There was another knock on the door making Ermond cry once more. Alekyne came into the room.

"Ah, sorry, I keep forgetting he doesn't like knocking."
"I will get him to stop crying."
"Discussing your plans? What's our next move against Albin?" Alekyne asked.
"We will be heading to Riverspring to present the evidence that Lelia Lannister has been unfaithful. If we can convince Albin, his children will be illegitimate and Dale Sheeran will be unable to inherit Casterly Rock," Willard answered.
"You're going to Riverspring? Why didn't you tell me? You're going straight into the jaws of a dragon ready to spit its fire," Alekyne warned.

Sylvia sighed. She finally got Ermond to stop crying again.

"We have no choice, I must prove my sincerity and go in person."
"Even though he has Dunaver, he's still threatened by you, this is the perfect opportunity for him to do whatever he wants."
"She has to go, Alekyne. Everything we've written down are lies, there's no way he'd believe any of it if we simply sent a letter," Reyna said.
"Then, allow me to come with you."
"Alekyne, you're the lord of Oakenshield, you must stay here," Sylvia said.
"If you go, I don't know what Albin will do to you. I will bring along Ser Harlan and his knights."
"My lord, it is very noble of what you're doing, but you should stay here," Willard suggested.
"If I go, I will stand in the way if Albin tries anything. My father is a powerful man and now that Albin's lost his alliance with the Lannisters and Wagstaffs, he cannot afford to make an enemy of my father. Albin will not harm me even if it means getting rid of you."
"Alekyne..." Sylvia said.
"Please say no more, I will go with you to Riverspring."

Sylvia nodded.

"We will go after Ermond recovers," Sylvia declared.

Willard's face lit up, he quickly turned to Sylvia.

"My lady, the murder plot is preparing to make its next move, we should make our move now while Dale has still yet to inherit anything," Willard argued.
"Ermond will die without me, I cannot leave him."
"Sylvia, the rest of your family could be in danger," Reyna warned.
"There are only two Sheerans I care for in this world, Dunaver and Ermond. If we fail, Dunaver will perish, I cannot lose Ermond too if it comes to that."
"My lady!" Willard said angrily.

Ermond began crying again.

"Willard you've made my child cry, get out, I will hear no more. We leave after Ermond recovers."

Sylvia's three companions looked around at each other.

"I'll go have a talk with Maester Welton," Willard said before storming out.
"Sylvia, as much as I love my son, your hesitation could put your plans in a disadvantageous position," Alekyne warned.
"Are you really prepared for what's going to happen to everyone at Riverspring if we fail?" Reyna asked.
"I've been prepared for our failure since the day Ermond was born. If House Sheeran falls, Ermond will be the one to carry the name."
"Do you really think we're going to fail?" Reyna asked, shocked at her friend's defeatist attitude.
"I didn't want to say it in front of Willard, but I think we lost this war many years ago, we're just delaying the inevitable," Sylvia said calmly.

While everyone around her was taken for surprise, Ermond slowly went back to sleep.

 

[stnylan]

Sylvia has a keen eye.

It is a bold move, but a desperate one.

 

[EmpireofOne]

Chapter 41: No Turning Back

Riverspring
Sylvia Sheeran

Sylvia's party stood outside the doors of Riverspring keep. To her right were her oldest friends, Reyna and Willard, the last of those willing to carry out her father's wishes. To her left were her allies, Alekyne Middlebury and Ser Harlan Trentwood, men who pledged to help her despite having no obligation to do so. With a small group of knights behind her, Sylvia had the strength to finally confront Albin in order to prevent House Sheeran from getting into a situation it was ill prepared to handle.

The doors opened and Ser Selmond came out accompanied by knights and guardsmen.

"Lord Albin will see you now," he announced.

Ser Selmond's group turned around and led Sylvia's band inside.

"Whatever happens, we will protect you, my lady," Ser Harlan assured.

There were whispers among the courtiers and those of Albin's council that were present. Albin sat in the lord's seat and locked eyes with Sylvia. Her hands trembled, there were an unusual number of guards in the chamber, what unsettled her even more was the fact she could not recognize a single one of their faces. She began thinking of what words to say, as the wrong sentence could force Ser Harlan's knights into a fight they would be unable to win.

"Sylvia, it's been so long, sister," Albin greeted.
"Albin, I hope you've been well," Sylvia greeted back.
"You brought Willard back home! I hope you're here to give him back to me, there is a bounty on his head."
"I never thought you valued me so highly," Willard said.
"You'll have to kill me if you wish to harm anyone," Alekyne warned.
"I never would've thought about harming anyone, but I do wonder why you all have come here."

Sylvia noticed Lelia was among the crowd, she had hoped that the imp would not be present as she served to make her plans difficult. She then looked around for her son, he was nowhere to be seen as Albin most likely sent him away to keep him from seeing his mother.

"Albin, your children are not yours. For the past few years, I have been gathering evidence, your wife Lelia has been meeting in secret with another man and passing the children of as yours," she began. Sylvia pulled out many parchments from her bag and lifted them up for everyone to see. She noticed Albin lean in from his seat. "Here are letters she has sent and received along with the genealogies of House Sheeran and Lannister."

​

Ser Selmond approached Sylvia, Ser Harland readied his sword hand but relented when Ser Selmond gestured for the letters to be handed over. He took them and walked over to the Lord's chair and gave them to Albin for him to see. Sylvia watched her brother closely, checking to see the reactions on his face. He looked concerned, every page making the expression more apparent.

"All lies, of course," Castellan Stafford said loudly.
"Albin, it is true, you have to believe me. Your children are bastards, even your son Dale," Sylvia pleaded.
"Forget how much you dislike us, come to your senses and believe in the truth," Reyna argued.

Albin finished looking at the last of the letters.

"It is quite convenient, if my son is a bastard, he cannot inherit Casterly Rock," Albin said.
"What do I gain from this? Absolutely nothing, I am doing this for the good of House Sheeran's honour," Sylvia argued.
"Letters are not enough for me to be convinced my children are not mine," Albin said.
"Which is why we have provided you with the genealogies of House Sheeran and Lannister," Willard said.
"Compare our features to theirs. Dwarfism, gold hair, the noses, your children look nothing you," Sylvia argued, she was making a risky guess as she had only laid her eyes on Ellyn the Dwarf.

Spymaster Lucion stepped forward.

"Tyrion Lannister was a dwarf and yet it is verified that he is Tywin Lannister's son, your argument is weak. And I would think the father of the children would know exactly what they looked like, it seems you don't."
"He is right, other than the dwarfism in Ellyn, my children are quite like me. If all you've brought are letters and guesses, you have failed to convince me. Bring me this so called dwarf that's been fucking my wife if you want me to believe you."

Sylvia clenched her fists and moved closer to the lord's chair. Ser Selmond stepped in the way but Albin ordered him to stand down.

"Do you love your wife, Albin?"
"Do I love her?"
"There's no need to lie, Albin, everyone here knows the two of you hate each other. And what does a wife, displeased with her marriage and life do? She finds solace in the arms of another. So can you tell me truthfully that you love your wife and that she loves you back?" Sylvia explained.
"It matters not whether you say yes or not, it is widely known about the state of your relationship with Lady Lelia," Willard said.
"And this affair could have happened in Riverspring, we all look pretty similar to each other; I swear half the men in your guard could be my brothers if I looked from far enough," Reyna argued.

Albin hesitated. Sylvia believed she was finally getting through. Her evidence was all false and weak, but she realized all she needed to do was appeal to his emotions. Finally, she had her opportunity to stop Albin before it was too late.

"They're not his!" Lelia suddenly yelled.

There was a sudden volley of whispers among the courtiers. Sylvia was shocked, she did not expect Lelia to come out and admit they weren't Albin's children. Why was she helping the side that stood to tarnish the reputation of her children? Albin had to be planning something, this was to throw her off, Sylvia readied herself so she could adapt to the new development.

Riverspring
Albin Sheeran

Sylvia had to be planning something, this was to throw him off, Albin readied himself so he could adapt to the new development. He regretted having Lelia around as he planned to keep her locked in her room. Ser Selmond tried to quiet down the people so the discussions could continue.

"She even admits it! Your children are not yours," Alekyne yelled as he pointed.
"They are mine, she is so desperate to keep Casterly Rock from falling into my son's hands that she would be willing to lie to disinherit them. She's a crafty one, it was her idea to kill Tymos Lannister," Albin said.

He just needed to stall for time. His allies had moved forward with the plan to kill Tymos, all he needed to do was wait to hear whether or not he succeeded.

​

"Albin, listen to me. She's not only crafty, but she's been lying to you, those children were never yours to disinherit!" Sylvia yelled.
"Albin!" Willard said loudly. "You are not ready for The Rock, none of House Sheeran is ready. You are but a sheep preparing to fight a dragon if you kill Tymos Lannister. Albin, you're in no position to hold it, don't let the temporary prestige blind you from the fact that you're gambling away everything your father built."

Albin wished to see Willard's head on a pike for his past betrayal, but maybe he was right. He had no allies other than Lord Middlebury who was cordial at best. Riverspring and Brent Brook were not even High Lordships, his powerbase was weak. Finally, the Lannisters still had considerable holdings in Lannisport and Castamere, inheriting Casterly Rock would not remove them or their claims. The fight to hold Casterly Rock would be a great challenge, and Albin was starting to see it.

As for Sylvia's arguments, the evidence she presented were obvious fabrications, but Sylvia's previous appeal did have some merit. Every time he allegedly conceived his children, the moment was short and unpleasant for both sides. Maybe Lelia lied to keep the children's legitimacy as one final card to play and now she was making her move. If the children were not his, he would have to petition Tymos Lannister to legitimize them which would be as likely as successfully swimming across the Narrow Sea. He was so focused on the reward that he forgot about the trials to earn it.

"Hmph..."
"Albin, you're starting to see the truth, aren't you? Yes, please, believe me, I am doing this for our house., for father."
"My children..."

Before Albin could finish his sentence, Lucion approached him and whispered into his ear.

"Our allies have successfully killed Tymos Lannister. His body fell into the sea and has yet to be recovered."

​

"Albin?" Sylvia asked.
"My children are mine, I will never believe otherwise."
"What? But, but what about what I've told you?"
"I was misled and deceived by you at first, but I know the truth, my children are trueborn Sheerans, Sheerans father would be proud of."
"Albin no! They are bastards! Lelia even admits it!"
"Lelia will do anything to gain even the smallest bit of power, declaring her children illegitimate is not beyond her."
"Albin, declare your children as bastards and I will convince Tymos to not to harm you, you can live your life in peace, maybe we can even become closer as man and wife," Lelia begged.

Albin let out a hearty laugh. Never before did he feel such euphoria, he savoured the moment and made sure that everyone in the hall could witness him in his moment of triumph.

"Albin, listen to her! She's even offering to make the marriage work, she's offering to protect you from Tymos Lannister!" Sylvia pleaded.
"Why would I need protection from Tymos Lannister? He's dead."

Silence swept the entire room.

"No... no... no..." Sylvia said quietly.
"Albin, even if Tymos is dead, Dale's inheritance is illegal!" Willard yelled.
"Casterly Rock's army now pledges its allegiance to House Sheeran, we will make it legal!" Albin declared proudly.
"Aye!" Ser Selmond and the household guard yelled in unison.
"You murderer! You killed my brother!" Lelia screamed.
"Albin, you can still save our house, just have Dale declared a bastard and let the inheritance pass over him, you're walking into a fight you will not win!" Sylvia suggested quickly.

Albin raised his hand, a signal to Ser Selmond and the guard.

"Ser Selmond, I am done listening to my sister and her companion's lies, send them home!"
"As you wish, my lord. Men!" Ser Selmond yelled.

Ser Selmond and the eighty men that he had brought began surrounding Sylvia and her group. Ser Harland Trentwood and his knights drew their swords prompting Ser Selmond and the household guard pulling out their weapons in response.

"Do you really want to fight my men, Sylvia? You're hopelessly outnumbered."
"Albin! You have doomed our house!" Sylvia screamed.
"Sheathe your weapons and leave quietly, I do not wish for any bloodshed on this auspicious day, my son will be Lord of The Westerlands."

​

"Albin!" Sylvia yelled one last time before the guards started moving in.
"Ser Harlan stand down! Sylvia, let's get out of here," Alekyne said.
"Listen to your husband, Sylvia. He's making sure you make it home to your son, his name was Ermond, right?" Albin asked, forcing the greatest smile he could for Sylvia to see.

Sylvia's eyes widened, she simply stood in place.

"How... how..." Sylvia mouthed.
"Willard's not as skilled as he used to be, you put so much faith into an old man without a home. Oh how father would be disappointed in your choice of councillors."
"I am sorry, Willard, but your time is over," Lucion spoke up.
"Lucion Egelston! I knew your father well, how could you serve Albin? Such a waste of great potential," Willard berated.
"If I recall, you're the one causing trouble for us in Riverspring," Lucion replied.
"Are you still here? Ser Selmond, I thought I ordered you to remove them from my sight. Oh? Send Lelia back to her room, if she behaves, she might get to have supper tonight."
"You son of a whore! I will see your entire house burn for this," Lelia screamed.

Men grabbed Lelia whose face was drenched in tears. Just like all the other times she was taken away, she refused to go quietly and kicked and screamed the entire time. The army of guards turned their attention back to Sylvia's group after Lelia's cries went to silence.

"We've sheathed our weapons, let us leave in peace," Alekyne said.

Alekyne had to take Sylvia's hands to lead her away, it was as if she died where she stood, but Albin knew she was simply frozen in fear. He had to admit, he was very close to faltering and agreeing to Sylvia's arguments even though they were weak at first. Had it not been for the timely arrival of the news, he may just have taken Lelia up on her offer, especially if he failed to kill Tymos for the third time.

But that was the past, after years of planning and manoeuvring, House Sheeran finally ascended to Casterly Rock as planned. There was no turning back now, the letter demanding Dale's presence would arrive any day now. Even though everyone knew Albin had murdered Tymos Lannister, he hoped that everyone was aware that he would do everything he could to keep Casterly Rock.

 

[Twighlight Array 17]

And with that the Westerlands will be plunged into a terrible civil war, one the isolated House Sheeran will have little hope of winning. This was an exciting chapter, I especially like how both siblings were suspicious of each other in the same way, and how dramatic each revelation in the chapter was. However, I have a hard time feeling sorry for Lelia, considering how she was ready to kill her brother if she got the Rock, and was willing to use her unborn child as a bargaining chip.