Stay Alive - Chapter 6

I had just sat down for breakfast when a messenger hurried into the dining area. The king had insisted that the Starks join us for practically every meal. Not that I minded. Arya was fun to tease, Sansa was cute when I flirted with her, and Jon was opening up more each day. Technically, Jon spent most meals with me regardless of others. Plus, Tommen and Myrcella loved having the others to spend time with. I caught Tommen glancing at Sansa a few times. Each look ended with a blush that told me he was harboring a crush for the older girl.

That reminded me. I needed to find someone to pair Sansa up with. Marrying her wasn't going to fit my plans. I would need to be available for potential alliances. Unfortunately, the Starks just didn't have the right qualifications to fit that. They were already loyal to the throne and their power-base was too far removed from Kingslanding.

The messenger whispered something to Lord Stark and handed him a note. I tried to keep my curiosity in check as he read the letter. His face fell for a brief moment, but that was the range of emotion he showed.

Lord Stark stood. He looked like the weight of the world rested on his shoulders as he walked over to his children.

"Sansa, Arya." His voice was as stoic as always. "Come with me."

The two girls didn't argue. They followed Lord Stark out of the room with a small goodbye to those around the table. I raised an eyebrow when he didn't ask Jon to join them as well.

Once they were out of the room I stole a quick look at Cersei who gave me a slight nod in reply. I could only hope that her man had gotten rid of Caitlyn Stark in a way that didn't raise too many questions. That thought made me realize that I definitely needed to get my own network in order. I had been lagging behind on that front. My focus had been on getting the city in better condition and finding ways to increase my funds without the king finding out.

"Jon." I leaned over to keep our conversation low. "I need you to gather our people."

He nodded and slipped away without another word.

Yet again I was reminded how much of a loss with would have been to let him take the black. Was the wall important? Yes, of course. I had initiated a program to increase their numbers as well as arrange steady supply deliveries. Those who volunteered would be trained, housed, and armed with altered terms. They didn't have to take the black completely but were signed up for a three-year paid assignment. Their pay was given in monthly payments with the option to have a portion go to their family. If they died before their assignment was complete then a certain amount went to whoever they wanted.

Ordering the armor, weapons, and supplies had caused a boom for tradesfolk and merchants which, in turn, brought in more coin. The improvised casino had already paid for itself and had allowed for a building. It wasn't all going well. My project to bring clean, running water to the city was slow going. I wasn't sure if the sketches I did were helping or just causing scholars to debate.

Thankfully, there was no shortage of prisoners to assign to cleaning the sewers. There was actually a decent network under the city, they were just in horrible condition. That was going to be one of my largest projects to date. The city was already smelling better with the street sweeper crews. Being waist deep in sewage also had the added benefit of lowering the crime rate.

The biggest surprise was my community garden project. I wasn't sure what plants were good for the area, or if they would survive vandalism. There was always some asshole who decided to break things. A week after introduction we had to expand the project. The best part was that it didn't cost me anything beyond some starting seeds. It wasn't the best option, but I went with potatoes as the starting crop. Finding a farmer who didn't think I was trying to kill them was harder than expected.

Joffrey had well and truly been an evil bastard. I was still working to replace that image. My chances of surviving to old age were better if the people loved me, or at least held me in good regard.

I finished my meal and stood from the table.

"Mother." I inclined my head. "Tommy. Mickey."

I kissed my younger siblings on their heads. They giggled at the names I had given them. It helped that Cersei glared at me every time I used them.

"Father." I gave another bow to the king.

"Joffrey!" King Robert Baratheon bellowed. "Come here!"

I kept a pleasant expression on my face as I joined him.

"Take a seat." The king took a deep drink of his goblet.

I could smell the alcohol from a few steps away.

"I've heard quite a few stories about you." The king motioned to me with his goblet, spilling some in the process. "If I had known that shitting yourself to death would have finally turned you into a son to be proud of I would have taken you North years ago."

He let out a boisterous laugh. I joined in to keep him from noticing how Cersei glared at him. Even Tommen and Myrcella looked unhappy with his comments.

"Nothing like a messy death to make you question your life." I shrugged.

"I've seen you out in the training yard," The king continued without paying attention to whatever I said. "What's that sword you've been using? A hammer not up to your standards?"

"A decent war hammer weighs as much as I do." I gave him a fake smile. "The good looks I got from mother didn't come with your muscle."

The king let out another loud laugh.

"If you'll excuse." I made to stand.

"Somewhere to go?" The king winked at me. "A special lady to visit?"

"Nothing so enjoyable." I shook my head.

"I have a boar hunt coming up," The king announced before I could stand. "Will you be there?"

A flash of information sparked in my memory. This was how he died, but I was pretty sure it happened after the tournament to welcome the Starks. I had been so busy with the various projects that I had completely missed the celebration. That was when the gambling house really gained traction and gave us the push to fund things. Damn, I needed to pay more attention to the world around me or I would miss something important.

"Sorry, father." I stood. "I would only slow you down." I paused. "Or fall off my horse a few times."

The king laughed once more. Thankfully, his attention was drawn to a busty servant. I glanced over to Cersei to see her hide a smile behind her goblet. She subtly toasted me, letting me know she was the one to provide the distraction. I nodded in thanks and left before the king remembered I was there.

I made my way through the castle to my chambers. There was plenty of room for all to gather while not as impressive as an actual council room. Jon had done his job. Tyrion, Clegane, Varys, and at some point Bronn had appeared among the group. I wasn't going to argue, the guy was an asset. His mind was sharp, he fought dirty, and wasn't shy about teaching me and Jon his tricks.

Varys looked rather confused, and a little skittish, to be among the others.

"Gentlemen." I inclined my head as I entered. "Uncle."

"Do you not count me among the gentlemen?" Tyrion quipped.

"Uncle, I know you," I chuckled. "Of course not."

That got a little laugh. I turned my full attention to Varys. The bald man didn't flinch under my gaze but did seem curious.

"What was the message Lord Stark received?" I asked.

Varys didn't bother playing dumb.

"His with, Lady Catelyn, had an unfortunate accident which resulted in her death," Varys said. "She was said to be ill the day before and was unsteady on her feet. One of the servants said they heard her sneeze then scream before she fell down a long stairway."

The news settled on the room smothering the embers of humor. I shifted my attention to Jon to gauge his reaction. His brow was furrowed in thought, but he didn't appear overly emotional. I had to give it to Cersei, her people did good work. The assassin sent after Bran was sloppy, but I was fuzzy on the details if she was the one who ordered it. There was something about a dagger traced back to Tyrion, but that felt wrong. It didn't matter now.

"Jon." I cleared my throat to get his attention. "If you wish, you can go to Lord Stark to pay your respects. Though we should wait until we are officially given the news."

Jon nodded.

"I sent Jon to gather you here for a reason." I motioned to the young man. "Everyone, barring Lord Stark and the King, knew what the message was before it arrived. I just found out now. Do you see the problem?"

I let the question hang in the air.

"I want information," I continued. "Soldiers, guards, cooks, maids, and working women. All the people others overlook and hear more than anyone can imagine. Start in the city but the entire kingdom is our goal." I turned to Varys. "We work together now. I hope my actions have proven my intentions. It doesn't matter if you trust me. I need to know what is going on to make the best decisions for the kingdom."

The eunuch studied me but didn't speak. Tyrion seemed rather amused at the exchange.

"Why are we here?" Clegane inclined his head to Bronn.

"You." I pointed to Clegane. "Are known to be a man not to fuck with."

Clegane nodded at the assessment.

"I want you to start gathering solid men," I instructed. "Those that keep their word and that you know their worth. I want guardsmen that are loyal to me, not the throne." I turned to Bronn. "You are a sneaky bastard that managed to get into my uncle's circle. That shows you're clever, resourceful, and not afraid to play dirty."

Bronn smiled at the assessment.

"Your task is the same." I motioned to Clegane. "Find those among your circles that would be an asset. Those that you trust are a boon. If not them, then those with goals that align with yours."

"Such as?" Bronn asked with his smile still in place.

"Men who see this opportunity as one to increase their station and fortune." I flashed a quick smile before I turned to Tyrion. "What have you found about our small fingered friend."

"I've made progress on his businesses." Tyrion replied. "He might own a few dozen whore houses, but he doesn't know how to run them. They aren't the worst equipped in the city. The buildings are well maintained, and the girls don't get murdered too often."

"Too often." I rubbed my temples.

"He mostly uses them to clean his stolen gold and gather information," Varys spoke up.

I turned to him with interest.

"Go on." I motioned.

"He has been steadily robbing the royal coffers for years," Varys continued. "It has been ever since Robert took the throne. The king is loose with his money and never questions how expensive his tournaments and feasts run."

"Thank you." I inclined my head in a slight bow. "I appreciate the information." I turned to Tyrion. "Uncle, I believe your services on this matter are no longer needed. Focus on the gambling houses and branch out into our own brothels. I want the health and security of the ladies as a priority. Ask Clegane or Bronn for men who would be best to keep them safe. A few that are fine with disposing of problem customers too. Subtly, by default with the option to get messy."

Tyrion nodded.

"I think that's it." I scanned the gathered men. "Anything to report?"

"The prisoners are making good time clearing blockages in the sewers," Tyrion answered. "The guards aren't too happy, but they aren't complaining about the extra pay. We've identified a few problem areas that will need repairs. The street sweeper crews are taking bribes by shopkeepers and a few others to pay extra attention to their property."

"Cut them off," I ordered. "Tell the crews taking bribes that they can continue working with those that are paying them. Give them one week to decide if they want to continue on with us or use this chance to start their own enterprise. They can keep the equipment, but those bribes are now their pay."

"And if they want to stay on?" Tyrion asked. "Confiscate the bribes?"

"No," I scoffed. "Rotate the workers through and make sure they all get a cut. Anyone caught skimming off the top will be added to the sewer project." I paused. "That goes for everyone, including those in this room. I don't care if they spend their day with a scroll or a shovel, stealing will be punished. If you find yourself in need of some extra pay, or feel unappreciated, then approach Jon to arrange a meeting. You are all doing important work and deserve to be heard." I let my words settle for a moment. "That being said, if you cross me I will not hesitate to have you tossed in a cell until I forget your name."

"I need to piss," Clegane said ever the eloquent one among us.

"That will be all," I announced. "Varys, stay behind."

The others shuffled out of the room leaving Jon, Varys, and I alone. We stayed silent until the door was closed. Jon moved over to guard it without needing to be told.

"Thank you for your cooperation," I said. "I doubt you, or the princess, will accept my direct assistance."

Varys nodded.

"Has she married the horse lord yet?" I asked.

Varys nodded once more.

"Is her brother still alive?" I sighed.

Once again, he nodded.

"Bah." I pinched the bridge of my nose. "Listen. The sooner he dies the better it is for everyone. I don't want to stifle her growth, but I want her to know she has an ally in me. How would you suggest I do that? You're my best option to reach her without one of my people getting killed."

"Please." Varys motioned. "Continue."

"As I have told you," I said. "I am not my father. His sins are not mine. I hope to do right by her and the people of this kingdom. She does not need to fear my intent. I'd offer her safe passage to return here if I thought she'd take it." I paused. "Wait. She has that man with her. Damn, I forgot his name. Jonah, maybe?"

"Jorah," Varys corrected.

"Thank you," I replied. "Could we contact her through him? After her brother is dead, of course."

"Are you so sure of his death?" Varys asked.

"Visions," I tapped my forehead. "They are fading, unfortunately, but I still recall that much."

"Perhaps you will have another," Varys offered.

"I saw myself order Lord Stark beheaded. I was a monster and I saw myself die by poison on my wedding day," I stated flatly. "People celebrated my death. That's not a vision I'd like to see again."

Varys blinked in shock. Even Jon seemed taken aback.

"Why did you have him executed?" Varys asked with clear interest.

"Things beyond his control and imagined slights," I waved off his question. "I will not let it happen."

Varys nodded. Jon relaxed a little. I didn't miss the fact that his hand had drifted toward the dagger on his belt. He was loyal, I had to give him that.

"Now," I rubbed a hand through my hair. "I'll speak with you tomorrow for ideas on how to proceed. Keep this quiet from the king. I'd rather he be lost to madness hearing about dragonspawn."

The last word was said in a tired tone. Varys bowed and left the room leaving me alone with Jon.

"You never mentioned killing Ned," Jon said once the door was closed.

"I won't let it happen," I said firmly. "I have no idea what this new future we are building has in store. I do know that the Others beyond the wall are a problem overlooked for too long." I gave him a tired smile. "As you Northerners like to say. Winter is coming. I give it two years at most before the first frost reaches the city walls."

Jon took the news in stride.

"How is Ghost?" I changed the subject before he could fall too deep into his thoughts.

"He's enjoying the hunting in the forest," Jon brightened at the new topic. "He's going to miss Lady and Nymeria once they leave back North."

"Do you want to go with them?" I asked.

"No." Jon shook his head. "Lady Stark was never my mother. She made that quite clear. Being at her funeral would be an insult to her memory."

"You can go, if you must," I offered. "She might not have been your family, but the Starks are."

Jon nodded. He drifted into thought for a long moment.

"If you will, I would take my leave." Jon motioned to the door.

"Go on," I said. "Sansa and Arya will need their brother."

Jon left without another word. I slumped into my chair once I was alone. A nice, hot shower sounded wonderful right now. Would an elevated water tank work? Something small enough to fit safely and be heated without getting too hot. I grabbed a fresh piece of parchment to start sketching out another idea.

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NOTE:
Smut is planned. I want to get to a point where it doesn't come out of the blue.