826Hello everyone! Happy holidays! I wanted to post this prologue before New Year's Eve since I am still currently away. And you know, I want to take my time to enjoy being with my family!
So, this is it! A small prologue, a teasing of sorts! For this work!
I hope you guys would like it! Also, the White Wolf of Winterfell is still under work, and I am gathering opinions if people would like to read it! So, please tell me what you would like!
So, until further notice, I'll come back next year prepared and filled with energy! I hope all of you have a great time, and I'll see you all soon!
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!This chapter is edited! 23/Agust/23!
Prologue
289 AC
The streets of King's Landings were, as usual, filled with many people wondering about the future of the Seven Kingdoms, with whore disguised as ladies or thieves disguised as noblemen. Or it was the other way around. It was hard to say. Yet, although life in King's Landing wasn't the best at the moment. There was lingering light, currently walking through the streets of the dirty city. And it was a girl, but just not an ordinary girl. But the princess, the oldest daughter of King Robert Baratheon.
The half-Baratheon, half-Lannister and half-Targaryen princess, Galadriel Baratheon, was not an ordinary girl. And it was not because she was a princess. But because of how unique the surrounding circumstances were for her. Everyone expected a daughter of the Baratheon family to be just like them: black hair, blue eyes, short hair and easy to anger. But that was not the case. It seemed as if the girl was blessed or cursed, depending on who you asked, to bear more resemblance to the Targaryen side of the Baratheon family, much to the king's hatred. And it was because the princess's hair reminded him of the man it took everything from him—the hair of the cursed family Robert hated more than anything in this world. The previous monarchs of Westeros, the Targaryen family. But was it truly because of that?
The girl's hair was snow-white as if winter came and touched her head, only to leave a mark of snow forever on her hair. It wasn't at all like the Targaryen brethren. Of course, people didn't know the reality of it. They all thought it was just a different variant, a different shade of the usual silver hair, and nothing more. However, what was genuinely peculiar about the girl was her shining and hypnotising golden eyes. Those were the first things people saw, not her hair. Those golden eyes staring back at them whenever they spoke to the princes made many of the lords and ladies come to the same conclusion—the tales of how beautiful and wondrous the princess appeared to be were real, that she was truly blessed with grace and beauty.
It's like staring at the bright stars… they captivate you… You can't turn away.
Those eyes are like diamonds covered in gold. A beautiful sight to behold.
The Seven have genuinely blessed the princess… The Maiden has truly blessed the princess with those eyes and beauty.
There were many other things said about the princess, many rumours, and whatnot. Yet, for the so-called Dragon-Stag in Lion Coat. Those things weren't truly what she worried about. Not now, at the very least.
"This city stinks."
Those were the whispers of the young girl. She was just five years old, and the princess had already made sure to gather quite a reputation. A very highly artificial reputation made by her, of course. She wanted to be seen as a just and virtuous princess, filled with love and compassion for the less fortunate. It was a relatively simple thing to do since, in that world, being a decent human being was hard to come by. But it wasn't that bad, at least in Galadriel's experience.
This world is not as bad as I thought. In fact, it's a lot better than my old world. Here, there is no toxic waste. I am not living on artificial air and food. Mega corporations don't ruin the little of what is left of the world. There is a sense of chivalry and honour. And while it is far from perfect, it is a lot better than living a day in my old world. There is a lot of potential here.
Galadriel thought with a smile on her face as she smiled and gently waved at the poor peasant who stared at her in wonder and devotion.
"Seven bless you, my princess!"
Galadriel felt ticklish every time people stared at her with those eyes. Honestly, having the abilities of Yggdrasil here was a blessing. She truly wasn't even worried about a thug jumping on her. Since she could indeed just kill him instantly without even batting an eye, of course, she wouldn't do it. There was no need when you had two of the most recognised and formidable knights in the whole Seven Kingdoms. Galadriel smiled back and saw Ser Barristan Selmy and her uncle, Ser Jaime Lannister, following her with keen eyes.
Galadriel knew it was a rather strange thing to do. Allow a five-year-old to walk on the streets of King's Landing. But she was special. No one could say no to her. And it was not only because of her Demonic traits and allure that just snare people to her will. But, because, well, Galadriel was a hell of an actress.
I must act as a naïve, innocent, and good person. Let them all believe I am an angel. Let them all believe that. They are fools.
Galadriel smiled, and while it was true, she was acting like that. She was also making sure to let them know she was smarter than they realised. It was a hard thing to balance. Naivety and innocence with creativity and intelligence. Yet, she could manage to do just that. It was vital since she wanted to make sure her popularity increased each year. Galadriel was still determining what she wanted to do first, but it was a good idea to create a platform on which she could move more freely.
I don't know if there are other players around. And I don't know where is Nazarick. So, I must always be prepared. It's a good thing my name is almost the same. If Nazarick is somewhere, and if my theory is true. They would be able to recognise my name. Perhaps. At this point, I don't even know. But it is always good to be prepared.
Galadriel said as she stared at the view before her.
"Ser Barristan, is this Flea Bottom?" Galadriel asked, using her childish and adorable girlish voice.
"It is, my princess. However, I advise caution and avoid it at all costs," Ser Barristan said with a gentle voice.
"Why?" Galadriel asked innocently. Already knowing the reason why, she should be cautious. Galadriel wasn't stupid. She knew what lay over there. It wasn't hard to miss. Flea Bottom is a place filled with thieves, rapists, and whores. Yet, for me, the only thing that made my blood boil. Are the rapist who targets children. They'll pay for it. I'll make sure of it.
Galadriel thought with fury as she did her best not to allow her demonic presence to leak out.
"It's a place filled with the worst of the worst, from rapists to thieves and mercenaries. Whatever you'll find, there is nothing worth mentioning. Perhaps we should go back to the Red Keep? I am sure your mother would not be happy to know you're here," Jaime replied, hoping the young girl would understand his reasoning. Galadriel tilted her, faking confusion.
"I agree, my princess. Is dangerous for you to be alone here," Ser Barristan said while looking at Galadriel, who tried to look her most innocent. Yet, she couldn't help but scoff internally at the fact that she already had a good understanding of that place.
Galadriel couldn't help but roll her eyes. But she knew, as of now, Flea Bottom was not a priority. Not yet. She must first look for a certain boy.
"Alright, but before, I want to look at the swords and armour!" Galadriel said happily.
"My princess, I don't think it is a good idea," Ser Barristan said.
"Please, Ser Barristan, I beg mother to let me out! Just this once! I leave for Casterly Rock tomorrow, please?" Galadriel pleaded, and it took not much for the old kingsguard to fall under the pressure of those golden eyes.
Galadriel knew the old knight had a soft spot for her. She believed it was, perhaps, because of her Targaryen heritage. Or maybe something more. Regardless, Ser Barristan was someone who she truly liked. A knight through and through, like the ones for her fantasy books. That's why Galadriel smiled at the old knight, who seemed to look for support, and Jaime was having a hard time looking the other way.
Those golden eyes. Jaime thought with dread.
"Please, Uncle Jaime! I won't tell Mother," Galadriel whispered, and it made Jaime's resolution crumble as he could see the same face—the same gesture of Cersei on her.
Let's keep it a secret, Jaime. Our little secret, I won't tell father.
Jaime recalled those memories with fondness, a twisted one for sure. But a good one, at least for him. Galadriel smiled brightly; a bit Machiavelli, sure. But she knew about the incestuous relationship between her mother and uncle. It was disgusting, perhaps. She won't judge. But it allows for a bit of leverage. Galadriel has studied her mother's teasing and attitude around Uncle Jaime. And tried to copy the same gestures in order to make sure to captivate Uncle Jaime even more. No one could say Galadriel was someone who only depended on Yggdrasil's abilities to achieve what she wanted. She was resourceful and intelligent.
They both sighed, and Galadriel smiled victorious.
"Let's go!" Galadriel smiled as she took Jaime's hand and Ser Barristan.
Galadriel, while she was there for something else. The way the blacksmith performed his craftmanship actually mesmerised her. Galadriel was having a blast, just looking at the armour, swords, and everything. And while she has literally weapons and artefacts capable of destroying cities, shifting reality at her will, and bringing meteors from the skies in her inventory. There was something about normal weapons, being made by hand in a typical setting, that infatuated her. It was like watching a part of history being made in front of her. Galadriel loved watching documentaries about the medieval ages. And having the opportunity to watch how they would make the weapons, like swords in the traditional sense, was something she was enjoying. Look at that! The blade is… super red! It's super amazing! Holy Mother of Jesus Christ! Amanomahitotsu would have lost his mind watching this! He was a nerd about this. Galadriel thought with a smile. But she suddenly felt sad, thinking about one of her old companions. A bittersweet feeling came over her. But she shrugged it off. There was no need to think about it now.
"Look, uncle! Look at the sword!" Galadriel exclaimed excitedly. The sparks of the sword, being hit with a hammer, fascinated her.
Jaime couldn't help himself but chuckle at the sight of his niece smiling at the simple act of making a sword. He was still apprehensive about the princess. It was not his daughter. Yet, the girl was a part of Cersei—a part of their family. And there was something off about the princess. He couldn't hate her, no matter how much he tried. It was not possible. I wonder why… could it be my love for Cersei? He wondered.
"Ser Barristan, is this how they made your sword?" Galadriel asked, watching the swords closely.
Ser Barristan chuckles at the young girl.
"This is how all swords are made, my princess," Ser Barristan replied gently.
"Can I have one?" Galadriel asked innocently. "It looks so amazing!"
"A sword is not a toy, my princess," Jaime stated with an amused eyebrow.
"I bet I can beat you, uncle," Galadriel teased, smiling.
Ser Jaime chuckled internally. "I doubt it, my princess. I am very good with a sword." Jaime said with an arrogant smile as Ser Barristan rolled his eyes.
Galadriel hummed. "Are all swords made of steel?" She asked, again, faking innocence.
"Not at all. There are ones made of Valyrian steel. Those are incredibly rare," Ser Barristan replied, which caused Galadriel to think deeply about what sort of mysterious material Valyrian steel was and where she could find it.
"Ah, I remember. I think the Lannisters had one, yes? Granddad told me about it. He seemed particularly upset about it," Galadriel said innocently.
Jaime shook his head, still having problems thinking about how his niece was capable of captivating the stern lord of the Westerlands. It was madness. But if he believes what Tyrion told him in that letter. Well, it seems as if the princess was The Old Lion's favourite person. Not that Tywin would ever admit it.
"I would not use the word upset while talking about my father," Jaime muttered, snorting at the thought of his father behaving like an ordinary grandfather.
"Angry? I can't imagine grandfather angry. He seems like a nice person," Galadriel said softly. Although, inside, she was almost laughing. Tywin Lannister was a scary person. And if she was honest. Galadriel was quite fearful of him. My grandfather is a dangerous person! Like, he executed two people because they just stole bread. Like, what the hell! Chill out! Galadriel thought, remembering the first time he went to Casterly Rock and saw those bodies hanging out of the gates.
Ser Barristan coughed loudly as he tried not to laugh about those words. However, it was Jaime who couldn't hide his amusement.
"Next time you see him, please tell him that," Jaime said, smiling.
Galadriel scoffed. Yet, she wanted to know more, especially about a particular sword.
"Ser Barristan, what about the Sword of the Morning? It was made of Valyrian steel?" Galadriel asked, noticing the change of gestures on both Ser Barristan and Jaime.
"No, they made it out of a falling star if the legends are true. It's a sword only wielded by a member of the Dayne family. The last one was Ser Arthur Dayne… a member of the kingsguard, years ago," Ser Barristan said with a gloomy voice.
Mm, a sword made out of a star? That sounds cool and quite strange. Galadriel thought, wondering if that sword had unique properties of some kind.
"Was he good?" She asked now, staring at both knights and could see truly genuine respect on their faces.
"Yes, he was… one of the best," Jaime said, without his arrogant voice. "One of the deadliest swordsmen I have ever seen," Jaime said before giving Ser Barristan a brief nod of respect. "Besides you, of course."
"One of the best truly, he could do things with the sword I had never seen before, died before his time, but did his duty," Ser Barristan added, voice filled with melancholy and a bit of regret. Galadriel wondered what sort of relationship the old knight had with the so-called Sword of the Morning. In fact, she wondered if Jaime idolised him. Since it was the first time Galadriel heard her uncle praise another swordsman besides Ser Barristan.
"I would have loved to meet him," Galadriel said. The Sword of the Morning. That's such a badass name.
Galadriel nodded as she wondered how many more secrets she would discover soon. Yet, all of that had to wait as she soon saw the boy she was looking for.
There he is.
There, moving some steel ingot from one place to the other, a dark-haired boy with blue eyes was standing, working.
Galadriel entered the store, or rather, the large place where swords and armour were being made. And was soon met by a man who was all sweaty from the endless hours of work.
"Hey, no kids allowed!" He said, as he was having a hard time distinguishing who he was speaking to. Of course, it didn't take long until he saw the shining golden cloaks and the stern faces of the kingsguard next to the girl with the white hair.
"Mind your tongue. This is your princess," Ser Barristan said with a stern voice as the man shivered at the sight of the legendary knight.
"I-I apologise, my princess, my eyes fail me," the man replied quickly, watching the kingsguard's cold expressions.
"Don't apologise, my good man. A young child shouldn't be in a place as dangerous as this. The curiosity just got the best of me. Sorry for disturbing your work," Galadriel said, using her natural allure to appease the man's nerves. As well as to bring the attention of the boy to her. Something that worked.
"What is your name, my good sir?" She asked gently, using her innocent voice to bring peace to the blacksmith.
"My name is Tobho Mott, my princess," he said. "What can I do for you?"
"I was just looking around, exploring the city. Can I look around?"
"Of course, my princess!"
Galadriel smiled gently and, waving to the kingsguard behind her, she went inside the store and explored. Of course, she could feel the eyes of a young boy on her. Cute, he is hiding. Galadriel thought, as she then saw a draw on a sheet of paper. It was a sketch of sorts, but it was clear what it was—a helmet.
Galadriel picked it up and inspected it. Uh, not bad at all. It has horns and everything.
"That's not for you!"
Galadriel turned around and saw the boy there, looking at her and practically taking the sketch from her hands.
"This is mine!" He said, and of course, it was met with quite a reaction.
"Gendry, show some manners. This is your princess!"
"This is mine," Gendry said again, looking at Galadriel directly into her eyes.
Definitely my father's seed. Those eyes, the attitude. All of it. This is one of my half-brothers. Mm, interesting.
Galadriel thought, amused.
"Sorry, I didn't know," Galadriel apologised with a soft, trembling voice, making Gendry suddenly feel horrible about it. The nine-year-old boy saw those golden eyes and knew exactly who the girl was. And, of course, Ser Jaime felt obligated to reply to such an attitude. He couldn't let a boy make her niece cry in such a manner.
"A helmet? Boy? Why would you want such a thing?" Jaime teased with quite a crude voice.
"It's for me… to fight," Gendry replied, to which Jaime would applaud. The boy had quite the fire in him—a somewhat quite familiar one.
"Do you know how to use the sword, boy?" Jaime asked while approaching Gendry, who gulped as he saw the kingsguard.
"I… I have learned… I can learn!" Gendry replied, stuttering the voice.
"Really…? I would have to make sure to… see if what you say is true, right?" Jaime hissed, slowly walking towards him, intimidating the poor lad.
"Jaime, enough," Ser Barristan said, to which Gendry's eyes went big.
"You're the Kingslayer," he whispered, earning quite a glare from Jaime.
"Aye, that I am. Would you like a demonstration, boy?" Jaime tilted his head, mocking the boy.
"Uncle, please, it was my fault… I shouldn't touch what is not mine," Galadriel pleaded. Such a talented actress I am!
"You're a princess, my dear niece. You shouldn't apologise to the peasants of King's Landing," Jaime said in a very condescending voice. And Galadriel didn't like it, even with the Demonic Empress traits. She was still someone who understood the world, back in my world. I was a peasant, or worse.
"Well, good thing I am not like that, uncle," Galadriel replied as she huffed. She put her hand up in front of Gendry as the older boy stared at her, wondering what she was thinking of.
"My name is Galadriel Baratheon… princess of the Seven Kingdoms… but just call me Galadriel!" She said, with a big, pure smile on her face. "What's your name?"
Ser Barristan couldn't shake the feeling of wonder and a sense of pride. The princess was something different. He could feel it in his old bones. I hope to live to see her be something more… I failed the Targaryen family. I failed Rhaegar. But perhaps… I won't fail her. He thought with a determined fire in him.
Gendry stared at those golden eyes, wondering if she was lying or something. But he couldn't find anything.
"I am Gendry…"
Their hands touched, and Galadriel smiled; she couldn't help but think that sweet Gendry was quite the cute boy. Even while covered in dirt and ashes.
Let's see if you are helpful to me in the future, my dear Half-brother. Otherwise, if you become a nuisance, I'll simply kill you.
Galadriel knew about the many plots going around. And, well, she was not going to fall behind. She was going to charm everyone while portraying herself as innocent, pure, and naïve. While at the same time slowly building her own circle of supporters and loyal people to her. And having her half-brother, one of the oldest on her good side, was necessary. After all, technically. Her siblings had no right to the throne or other titles from the Baratheon family. So, she must move fast and put seeds of loyalty in some of her other siblings. Or, well, make sure they won't be a bother or try to go against her. A win-win situation for her.
Ah, I forgot. There is a half-sister I must look after, too.
"Please to meet you, Gendry! I hope we can become good friends!"
Gendry blushed as he could feel the soft hand of the princess.
"Do you make swords? Or armour?" Galadriel asked innocently and with a smile.
"I am learning, still," Gendry replied, blushing.
Galadriel decided to shock everyone. Why? Because she wanted, and because she has to make sure to show them. That she was a Targaryen. Kind of. Maybe she just wanted to surprise her half-brother and everyone around. Or, perhaps, because she wanted to have fun.
Galadriel quickly moved to one of the big forges, where a steel half-made sword, burning red, was resting. She did not bother to listen to the shouting of the surrounding people. Took the sword by the edge, which was of orange colour, almost at the melting point, and, like nothing, held it in her palms.
Jaime, Ser Barristan, Gendry, and the owner of the forge stared dumbfounded at the way the princess was holding the sword, like nothing.
"Can you show me?!" Galadriel exclaimed happily.
Gendry stared, shocked by the way. Her hand looked unharmed by the heat of the blade. Gendry has suffered burns, and they would hurt a lot. But now, staring at the princess, who seemed unbothered by the scorching heat of the blade, wondered if he was perhaps overdramatic.
"My princess, it would be for the best for you to leave the blade," Ser Barristan whispered carefully, watching how the princess's hand was still unharmed by the heat and fire. Targaryen's blood runs in her. I thought it was just looks, but she is a dragon in disguise. The old knight thought.
"Uh, why?" Galadriel faked confusion.
"It's not normal for one to… be rather unharmed by fire," Jaime added slowly, watching the perplexed look of his niece.
The Targaryen blood runs deeper than I thought. Jaime stared at the way. The princess slowly put the blade away and noticed that her palm was unscarred.
"I thought it was normal," Galadriel whispered, looking down.
Ser Barristan slowly approaches the princess. It wasn't the first time he saw something like that. The last time, he saw something akin to it. It was when Rhaegar was alive when he was a child. A long time ago.
"It's not something you should be ashamed of," Ser Barristan said softly.
"It's because of… the dragonspawn thing?" Galadriel asked in a whisper. It wasn't hard to fake hurt. But if she could be honest. Galadriel just doesn't feel great while talking about how her father hates her. The last one, in her old life, despised her and made sure to let her know that. And while Robert was better than the last one. He would still make sure to let Galadriel know he did not love her nor care for her.
Maybe it was something in her brain, psychological. The lack of a father figure. It was hard to know. But Galadriel would often wonder. What it was to have a typical family.
"Don't let it deter you. It's nothing you should be afraid or ashamed of, my princess. It is you, and that's the only thing that matters," Ser Barristan said.
Galadriel stared at the old man before her and smiled. You're such a gentleman, Ser Barristan. Truly, a wonderful person to have around.
"Thank you, Ser Barristan," Galadriel smiled at the old knight.
Gendry wasn't sure of what was going on. But he knew it had something to do with the Targaryen family.
But before he could say anything, or anyone else, for that matter. The bells of the Red Keep sounded. And both Jaime and Ser Barristan knew there were only a few reasons why the bells would ring.
"My princess, we must go back to the Red Keep now," Ser Barristan said, leaving no room for arguments.
"Oh, alright! See you later, Gendry!"
Galadriel said as she left with her two kingsguard. Leaving a very confused Gendry behind but with hope and something pure growing inside him. Without him realising that, he just shook hands with the devil.
Galadriel now knew why the bells rang as she stared at the king. Her father, with quite an amused face. She arrived just in time to see her father's look as the news of a rebellion came to them in the form of a raven.
"Finally… the time has come."
Galadriel expected to see him throwing a chair or two in his famous anger. But he seems rather pleased to go to war. And well, she shouldn't be surprised. He would often say that he wasn't fit to be a king. He was meant to whore, drink, and fight. As he would often claim.
"I guess I will not visit, grandfather, for a while," she whispered after learning that the Greyjoy fleet was capable of burning the Lannister fleet during the night.
Yeah, I would rather be away from my grandfather right now. He must be… really pissed off by those squids. Galadriel shivered as she wondered what would have been the Old Lion to what happened.
Yet, from what Galadriel could see. Robert, her father, the king, was smiling as he stared at the window.
"Jon, send the ravens. Gather the royal army," Robert said with a chilling voice, almost sounding like an excited child.
Jon Arryn took a shaky breath. "All of them?" He asked a stupid question, but one he must ask.
Robert looked back and stared at his mentor and somehow father figure.
"I'll write a letter to Ned personally… It's been a long time since we have seen each other. Bring Ned out of the North. He's doing nothing there," Robert said with a smile. However, Galadriel did notice the distant gaze of her uncle, Stannis Baratheon, who seemed to show no emotion at the name of Ned Stark.
Galadriel tilted her head as she listened to the name of Ned Stark again. The man, the myth. He was the only person who seemed to hold any significance in Robert's life. Well, that and the woman of his dreams, Lyanna Stark, a name who only seemed to bring hatred and bitterness to her mother, Cersei. Which currently, was already thinking of leaving the Small Council chamber. Galadriel noticed the growing belly and cringed, knowing to whom the baby belonged. Yet, she decided to ignore it.
Galadriel was just standing there as she stared at the small council, all of which seemed already working in whatever the king ordered them to. Yet, she did notice, then, even though she was there, Joffrey, her beloved brother, wasn't there. Mm, maybe he is torturing a dog or cat. She thought, however, her mind travelled to the map on the table. And wondered what on earth possessed the fool of Balon Greyjoy to declare himself king? It was such a stupid endeavour. The Iron Island had nothing but rock and steel. Their population was small, and while it was true, there were no better sailors in the world than them. They weren't unbeatable and were outnumbered, 4 to 1, in the sea if you put the Redwyne fleet, the Baratheon fleet, and the Royal fleet together. And about 6 to 1 in the land, with just the armies of Storm's End, the Crowlands, and the North combined. Although she believes the numbers could vary, it was still a stupid decision to start a war. They couldn't win.
"Such a fool's endeavour," Galadriel muttered, bringing the attention of everyone at the table. Ah, I shouldn't speak out loud.
"My dear niece, I would love to hear about your little adventurer in the beautiful streets of King's Landing, but we are currently busy," Renly Baratheon, her other uncle, said with that charming smile of his.
Galadriel noticed the stoic face of Stannis and the sudden change on her dear father's face. Ugh, those two! I understand why my father hates me, but please, whatever I did to deserve Stannis' hate? Or is it hate? Galadriel thought.
"I do believe it would be for the best if the young princess… leave… this place. It not a place for children," Pycelle, the stuttering fool, muttered.
Cersei frowned at those words, not liking what the old Maester was talking about. "My daughter understands, better than most, what is going on," Cersei practically hissed those words. Of course, Pycelle only nodded submissively, but Galadriel knew better than to trust the masquerade of the old fool. But I must compliment his acting. He surely knows how to act around people. Well, I guess, except grandfather. He knows too well the old man's fake act.
"I do believe she just refers to the rebellion as a fool's endeavour," Varys chipped in, and Galadriel tilted her head, wondering what the Spider's game was.
"Everyone can see it, eunuch. The rebellion has no chance of survival. Balon Greyjoy is an utter fool if he believes the Iron Island can be independent of the Iron Throne," Stannis added, with the usual voice.
"I am just pointing it out, my lord. After all, our princess has quite the mind," Varys said, smiling at the princess, who looked at him curiously.
"She has a great mind, no doubt," Pycell added, with a bit of a smile himself; of course, Galadriel almost gagged at the way he was staring at her.
Stannis said nothing since he couldn't deny it. His niece, in just a few years, has life. Has proven to be a blessing. She learned to speak and write by herself. She was already holding a conversation at the age of one. And understanding concepts in a way that has never been seen before. Yet, she was still a baby in his eyes. She was too naïve, innocent, and pure. And while there were moments where he could see the Baratheon's fury. The goodness of her heart was her great weakness. They want to take advantage of her. I can't allow it.
"She is still a kid with no real experience. Talking like she is an adult is an insult," Stannis stated, making Galadriel simply scoff silently.
Hey, I take offence to that! Galadriel thought, mildly offended.
"But, it's a surprise to see our young princess realising it at such a young age, won't you agree, your grace?" Petyr Baelish said, with the usual good-hearted voice he was famous for. Yet, Galadriel felt something off going on in the Small Council. She stared at Varys and Petyr and watched their gestures. Mm, what are they playing at? She wondered.
"My daughter is smart. The smarter princess that has ever existed. She could easily do any of your jobs. As Pycelle has said before, my child is a genius. And has no problem solving even the hardest mathematical problem," Cerseiher haughty voice of her. Showing off how proud she was of Galadriel's intelligence. Then, Galadriel glances over the smile of Renly, Varys, and Petyr. They were all playing at something.
"I do agree, my niece is incredibly smart… perhaps, since my brother would be away for the time being. Don't you think it would be a great idea to… perhaps, see how smart the princess is?" Renly said, truly hiding his intentions. But some could already see it—especially the Spider.
Ah, where is this going? Galadriel contemplated. As she stared at the battle of minds going before her.
"What do you mean?" Jon Arryn asked.
"Perhaps we could give the princess a bit of authority? As Robert's regent? For just the time being, of course," Renly said, and it brought chaos to the room. Or, well, not chaos, but it was met with quite the expectation.
"You want to make the princess the regent while the king is away? Do you understand what you are talking about, Renly? Not only it's unnecessary since Jon Arryn would be here, acting as Hand of the King, but it goes again, the right of the eldest," Stannis said, with quite a hostile voice. Yet Renly seemed to shrug it off with an innocent smile.
"Joffrey is the oldest and Robert's heir, if anything. He should be the one in charge," Stannis declared dryly.
"Joffrey doesn't know how to write his own name, as of now. And he is older than our princes. But truthfully, he doesn't have what it takes to be a ruler, but that is my humble opinion," Renly said charmingly as he stared at Petyr, who smiled back at him.
"The princess doesn't need to lead or act as a regent. She can just sit on the throne as a symbolic gesture," Petyr replied, simply playing Renly's game from now on. Yet, there was a hidden agenda both had, and neither wanted to lose against the other.
"It's more than just a symbolic gesture. You know this, right?" Jon Arryn replied quickly. "People would believe that, we trust her more than the crown princes."
"It's unnecessary," Stannis said again.
"It can come in handy in the future for experience," Petyr added.
"Putting such a responsibility on a child, would that be wise?" Varys asked, hiding his true intentions.
"But she is already well-liked by the common people… oddly enough," Varys said, wondering how it could be that the princess' reputation was growing fast each year. Interesting, very interesting indeed. Varys was going to make sure to put an eye on the young princess. She was currently a wildcard on the grand scale of things.
"What do you say, your grace?" Renly asked the queen.
And, of course, Galadriel then stared at her mother. The queen seemed to ponder about it, too. Everyone knew that she adored Joffrey, even though he was quite the troublesome boy. Yet, they also knew that between both Joffrey and Galadriel. It was the princess whom Cersei loved the most. And would choose her over Joffrey. Galadriel now understood what they were playing at. But it was strange. She doubted the king would allow such a crazy idea to begin with. And it was just what her uncle said. Jon Arryn was there. There was no need for a regent. Still, she wonders how she could use that opportunity to her advantage.
Cersei huffed. "My daughter would not be alone. And she can handle the responsibility. But perhaps we could put both Joffrey and Galadriel together? I know they would do just fine."
Galadriel scoffed internally. Joffrey was not a smart boy and was already showing signs of cruelty and lack of empathy. Suppose they give him more power at such a young age. He would genuinely become a rather obnoxious brat. And it didn't help that Cersei practically showered him with gifts and more. Joffrey is a tyrant in the making. Galadriel thought, amused by the whole thing.
Yet, the one who had the last say was Robert, who was, surprisingly, quiet about the whole thing. Galadriel stared at him, wondering what was going on inside his head. Robert wasn't a fool. He could see that Joffrey would not be a great king. Gods forbid, he wasn't a good king at all. But he felt something off in his only son. Robert doesn't care about him, a sad thing to admit. Yet, her daughter, the reminder of his hatred of the Targaryen family, was different. If only she were a boy, she would have been an excellent king. Perhaps, just for now… let's see how she handles it.
Robert wasn't proud of the man he had become. His daughter did not deserve his hate. But he couldn't shake it off. He couldn't forgive them.
She deserves something better.
"I agree," Robert said, surprising everyone.
"Eh?" Galadriel replied, a bit stunned by Robert's words.
"Jon Arryn is going to act as your mentor, the same way he was to me… and the rest of the council will be there to help you," Robert declared in his famous tone of voice.
"Robert, this is not…" Jon Arryn tried to argue.
"I am the king. I do what I want. Let her rule in my stead, small things. She'll hate it more than I do," Robert stated again. It was clear to everyone that no one could convince the king otherwise.
Ah, wait a minute! I wasn't preparing for this! Argh, this is too soon! Galadriel thought, but of course, outside was calm.
"I understand… father," Galadriel said, as everyone saw the calm face of the princess. Those golden eyes were staring at the king with those golden eyes of hers and almost challenging him to say anything.
"Do you remember our words?" Robert asked the small girl, who just couldn't quite grasp what was going on inside her father's head.
"Ours is the fury," Galadriel replied quickly.
Robert didn't reply to that.
"Stannis, gather the fleet now, Ser Barristan, with me, Kingslayer, you too," Robert said, leaving the Small Council chamber. Ser Barristan looked troubled but sighed and followed the king. Jaime gave a brief look to Cersei and his niece and left.
Galadriel groaned internally as she stared at the Small Council. Ugh, well, it is what it is. Mm, let's see, how do I play the Game of Thrones? Galadriel thought as she felt the stares of Petyr, Renly, Pycell, and Varys on her.
The day in which the king and the royal army would march to war came, and Galadriel, like her mother and the rest of the small council, stared at the king, marching away. Galadriel noticed how melancholy Cersei, her mother, looked. Perhaps it was the pregnancy. Or, maybe it was her uncle Jaime leaving with the king. Whatever it was, Galadriel decided to show affection and took her mother's hand.
"Don't worry, mother. I know Uncle Jaime will come back safely," Galadriel said, smiling at the reaction of her mother, who slowly and gently caressed her already-showing belly. Yes, I know that, my dear. No knight in Westeros can defeat Jaime. But now I must make sure to guide you. Poor Joffrey, he was distraught upon hearing the news. Cersei thought sadly.
But he knows he is the one who will become king. I'm so sorry, my dear daughter. But this world won't tolerate a woman in control. Yet, you're still special—more than anyone else.
Cersei thought, with madness in her eyes, as she stared at her daughter.
"Don't worry, my love. I know," Cersei replied.
Well, whatever, my sibling is growing up there. I hope it's not another Joffrey.
Galadriel thought with a sigh.
"So, it is done," Renly whispered as she stared at the young princess with a gentle smile. With Stannis and Robert gone… I can bring my niece to my side. Yeah, I must be fast and make sure to keep Cersei away. And I need to make sure to send letters to the Reach. Renly thought, however, he wasn't the only one thinking of something like that.
"As the king leaves the capital. We must not forget our duty," Varys said with the usual mysterious voice.
"That's true, my princess. We are at your service," Petyr added as he stared at both Varys and Renly.
Jon Arryn took a deep breath, feeling exhausted already. "Indeed, now, there is a lot we must do today, my princess."
"Of course, lord hand, lead the way."
Galadriel said confidently as she allowed the adults to walk before her. Letting them know she was not a threat. Fools.
Galadriel felt strange as she sat down in the chair where the king sat, sometimes. Galadriel felt confident, and if she was honest with herself. Arrogant. She noticed the kingsguard left behind. He was Mando Moore, and she didn't even know him. Then, there was Boros Blount and Ser Meryn Trant. They were, perhaps, the most useless kingsguard in the whole history of kingsguard. Yet, she also knew they were under the payroll of her mother. So, they would serve their purpose, she guesses. Although, if the information that came to her was right. Ser Meryn Trant was a paedophile, and well, she couldn't allow him to live any longer.
All in time. All in time.
Galadriel smiled.
"How does that chair feel, my dear niece?" Renly asked with a friendly voice.
"It's rather big for me," Galadriel said, truthfully.
"It's fit for a king, but I guess it is now for a queen," Petyr said, smiling. And Galadriel replied with the same smile, already knowing full well the meaning behind those words.
He surely likes the sound of his own voice.
Galadriel thought with an amused tone.
"She is only a temporary regent. Let's not forget that the crown prince and heir to the throne is Joffrey," Pycell pointed out, which was met with some glares. Galadriel was aware of some of the plots. Renly wanted to appeal to her. He wanted to become the father figure for her. And slowly bringing her to his side. Galadriel wasn't sure yet what was the end goal of her uncle. Perhaps Renly wasn't sure yet. But it had to do with the Tyrell family. They were the ones supporting Renly behind closed curtains.
Varys was playing different cards at the same time. To the point that Galadriel wasn't sure of where he would choose to go. Pycell was just a fool who wanted to keep his head. And Petyr was maybe one of the people she needed to watch out for. His true intentions elude her so far. But he was resourceful. And she would need him.
"Details, of course. But, perhaps Robert saw something in our princess that he didn't see in Joffrey?" Renly said, earning some stares.
"That's quiet, the statement, lord Renly," Varys said.
"Untrue?" Renly replied.
Varys shrugged it.
Cersei, who sat down next to her daughter, felt trouble about what they said about Joffrey. Her son was currently, perhaps, letting his young frustration on a poor stray cat or dog. But she knew it would be fine. Right now, her daughter needs her.
"We must not forget why we are here… currently. The kingdom is in war, and we must make sure everything goes smoothly," Jon Arryn said.
"We are the lords of small matters here, my little princess," Petyr said, changing his tone to a more friendly one. Galadriel also noticed the little princess.
Interesting. Let's play.
Galadriel smiled and faked nervousness.
"Thank you all of you, milords. While my father is out there fighting. I want to make sure everything is going accordingly."
Galadriel was now in a position in which she had to make sure to show everyone how competent she was at the same time. To let them get their guards down, to make them believe she was gullible and easy to control. Of course, she wasn't. And everything was just a plan for her. To play around with them.
"Now, please, lord Arryn, I had the fortune to peak into our treasury and our administration layout. At the same time, I find myself impressed with lord Baelish's skills. I discovered that the Iron Throne is slowly sinking into debt," Galadriel said quickly.
Petyr almost stumbled from the chair as he heard those words. And, of course, Galadriel noticed and smirked internally.
"Bu-but, of course, it's not your fault, lord Baelish! I know, father has been… wasting a lot of it," Galadriel said, hiding her sneer.
"I am the master of coin. I can only get the money. The hand and the king are the ones in charge of spending it," Petyr said, pushing the blame away.
"I have told Robert many times not to waste our gold on stupid tourneys and parties. Yet, he doesn't listen," Jon Arryn said with a sigh.
"What does it matter? We have the gold… Lannister gold," Cersei said, not understanding the concern.
Galadriel wasn't sure of that. She wanted to visit Casterly Rock in order to see for herself the state of the mines. But that would have to wait.
"That's not the problem. But the large mismanagement of resources," Galadriel said, as she picked up a book, that none of the lords there, or even the queen, knew where she got it.
Galadriel got into her account manager mode. After all, that was her old job. One she excelled at.
"We have many influxes of gold in many parts… but we haven't used them correctly," Galadriel said, earning an interesting stare from Jon Arryn.
"What do you suggest?" He asked.
"We must invest them, of course. There are many things we can do in order to bring foreign investment to our ports."
The small council listened carefully to the tiny princess' words and were truthfully mesmerised by how easy it was. The princess explains her plans. It was so logical and relatively easy to follow. That even Cersei understood it.
Galadriel's soft voice snares them, and without them realising. Galadriel's objectives were growing.
Yet, there is a lot I must do first. This is just the beginning.
Galadriel thought as she gave a brief look at the many spiders hiding in the shadows.
There is a lot I need to do first.