The Greedy Frog
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Hey, I Ruin Stories! Chapter 42
🕑 Added 2024-06-14 10:14:14 +0000 UTCChapter 42: Seeding Ideas
[Early Morning — Red Keep, King’s Landing]
{Cersei Lannister}
He was a handsome man.
He didn’t dress like a sorcerer, nor did he dress like someone beneath the High Septon. He was simply a handsome man of foreign descent, clad in elaborate attire. The only Westerosi trait about him was a slight resemblance to the Dornishmen. Otherwise, he claimed to hail from Ulthos.
“So, you are saying he is a sorcerer who will assist us?” My question elicited nods from Petyr and Varys.
“Yes, Your Grace,” Varys spoke first. “Darius here is a sorcerer who has brought down cities with his magic and has aided countless people.”
“Yet he has shown loyalty to the enemy, that accursed Targaryen girl.”
I felt inclined to execute him on the spot, but the presence of Varys and Petyr beside him compelled me to hear their account.
But it was not they who responded, but the man himself.
“I was compelled to aid her, Your Grace.”
“Compelled?” I frowned. “If what Varys says is true, how can a young girl compel you to serve her?”
“It is because I am a sorcerer, Your Grace,” his tone was respectful. “Sorcerers are bound by magic, and magic adheres to the laws of gods and nature.”
“And how does nature compel you to aid an enemy of the realm?”
He chose his words cautiously, knowing any misstep could cost him his life.
“I was bound by a promise to keep her alive in Qarth. She had aided me before through the desert, and thus, I was honor-bound to help her,” he explained, looking down. “I bear no allegiance to her; only a fulfilled promise.”
His response made me think further. “And if you are bound by another promise while in service to the kingdom, would you betray us and side with our enemies?”
A man easily swayed to aid the enemy could easily be swayed to betray us too.
Or perhaps not.
“You need not worry about that, Your Grace,” he replied confidently. “Once a sorcerer makes a promise, no other promise can annul the former.”
Petyr vouched for him. “He has also provided us with invaluable intelligence, Your Highness. Information about the Targaryen girl that we have confirmed with our own sources, and he is willing to share every detail he learned during his time with her.”
“I trust your judgment of character, Lord Baelish and Lord Varys. However, this concerns the safety of our kingdom. Do you have sufficient evidence to trust his words blindly?”
“We have verified it through every means available to us, my lady,” Varys stepped forward. “Having Darius with us will significantly enhance our strength, both militarily and in intelligence.”
“Will you take responsibility for all his actions while in our service?”
I anticipated Varys might falter, but he remained confident.
“I will, my lady.”
“As will I,” Petyr added.
“But remember, Lord Varys, if anything goes awry, the blame will fall on you,” I turned to Petyr. “And you too shall face consequences, Lord Baelish.”
“To prove my loyalty, I believe I can assist with a matter troubling you, Your Grace,” the sorcerer interjected.
“What matter?” I inquired, prompting Varys to speak up.
“Ser Jaime’s predicament, Your Highness.”
I paused briefly, restraining myself from speaking rashly.
“I have the power to resolve that. If I secure your brother’s release, it should serve as ample proof of my goodwill.”
“Be careful,” I warned, “If any harm befalls my brother due to your actions, the entire realm will hunt you down.”
“I would not dare.”
This opportunity, with Varys and Petyr endorsing him, might be the only way to aid Jaime.
Finally, I looked at Petyr. “I need time to consider this. Until I decide, he shall remain in King’s Landing, under your watch, Lord Varys and Lord Baelish.”
“Of course,” the two nodded.
“Meanwhile, arrange suitable accommodations for him. Let him be a guest of the realm,” I commanded.
“Thank you, Your Highness.”
I only hope... that placing my trust in him is not a grave mistake.
…
…
[Late Afternoon — Alleyways of King’s Landing]
{A Serf of the City}
"That is a hauntingly realistic painting," the voice remarked calmly, filled with awe and composure.
"The eyes convey a fear more palpable than the scene itself."
The painting evoked sadness; I too could feel it. It spoke of genuine terror, the horrors witnessed and endured.
"What is its story?" He approached the painting, standing just inches away, awestruck and stunned.
"Fear," I answered quietly, "Fear more real than anything I have ever known."
He examined the painting, studying the colors that remained vivid despite enduring rain and sun.
"It wasn't painted with a brush," he observed, "Fingers?"
"He had boney fingers, weakened by the madness he endured."
"A family member, I presume?" He was clearly not from Westeros, lacking typical Westerosi features.
"My great-grandfather, who survived the horrors of a century ago, just to die barely a year after this painting was completed."
"It may be too much to ask, but could you tell me about the origins of this painting?" Most people avoided discussing paintings displayed on city walls and the songs composed so long ago.
Most knew, feared learning, and believed it unwise to delve into the past.
"My grandfather suffered under the cruelty of Aegon the Unworthy, a Targaryen king who may have surpassed even the Mad King in infamy."
He listened intently, falling silent as I recounted the tale.
"Aegon the Unworthy was cruel; he tortured and harmed those he disliked, no matter how trivial the reason," I continued, describing the reign that inflicted worse suffering than any other.
"People say Maegor the First, Aegon the Conqueror's son, was cruel, but Maegor ruled with strength, keeping the realm in check with an iron fist. There were rebellions, but none dared threaten the kingdom. Aegon the Unworthy, however, lacked charisma and skill; he was sadistic, inflicting cruelty not for the kingdom's sake, but for his own pleasure."
"And your great-grandfather fell victim to such a man," the man finally spoke.
"He did. He suffered more than just cruelty."
The painting before us bore witness to it: a dozen bodies piled up, men and women—naked women stacked atop one another.
And in the center, my great-grandfather, gripping the mouth of his friend shut, naked and terrified amidst the others.
"Hiding and praying to survive, to avoid detection," the man sighed sadly, "He endured great pain."
"He was ordered to be executed because his younger sister refused the king's advances." Of all the tyrants, Aegon the Unworthy was the most debauched. "Enraged by her defiance, the entire family, along with friends and relatives, faced execution."
"He survived," the man remarked, " even if only for a short time, but he survived."
I nodded. "He was strong. When all his family and friends were slaughtered and cast aside, he hid among the corpses, feigning death. He endured that night of horror, but the pain and fear haunted him until his death a year later."
"Because of his courage, you exist," the man said, prompting me to respect not only my great-grandfather but also my great-grandmother.
"He was cared for by a woman who had once nursed the king's wife. Unbeknownst to both the king and my great-grandfather, she had admired him for years by then."
"So, a love story, albeit a brief one."
"Yes. My grandfather passed, but not before ensuring my great-grandmother bore two healthy children." Yet, this too brought bitterness. "Only for the line of one of those children to end during the Mad King's reign."
"Oh."
"My uncle was slain for defeating the Mad King in one of his countless gambling matches. Alongside my uncle, his entire line was extinguished—leaving only my father's line, always subservient to the king."
"The Targaryen kings inflicted more pain upon the people than any others, didn't they?" Curiosity tinged his voice.
"You, being from elsewhere, might see it that way," I replied, cautious of his noble bearing. "The bad deeds overshadow the good, no matter the effort put forth. Such is the legacy of the Targaryens. The tales of their tyrants outshine those of their great rulers—except for one, the Conqueror."
"I understand it's much to ask, but could you share some of those stories with me? If I could see paintings and artifacts like this, it would be enlightening," his interest in Targaryen history evident. "Of course, I'll compensate you generously for your time."
"You must have a deep interest in history," I dared not inquire into his origins, as displeasing a noble could be dangerous. "Especially the tales of the Targaryens."
"Indeed," he agreed readily, "History, whether great or terrible, always imparts wisdom. Those who learn from it often achieve greatness."
"Perhaps you're right. Perhaps that's what Jaehaerys the Conciliator did—learn from history to better the realm."
"I confess I know little of these kings you speak of. I've heard their tales of greatness or infamy, but to hear from someone whose family lived under their rule is a rare opportunity."
His words brought a smile to my face; a curious man was always intriguing.
"Most of the roads, architecture, and city planning you see were built under the rule of the visionary King Jaehaerys," I began. "He endured the cruelty of Maegor, evaded capture for years, and once crowned, he listened to the people more attentively than any other king." Jaehaerys had always been the most revered king. "If Aegon the First was a great Conqueror, Jaehaerys the First was a great King and a remarkable leader."
This reminded me of a story about Jaehaerys.
"Jaehaerys the First was a noble man and a respected king. At the age of sixty, he confronted the man who had abducted and raped his daughter," I shared, leaving the man astonished. "Jaehaerys is arguably the greatest king this realm has ever known."
I glanced at him, expecting him to inquire about the current royal family. If he did, I was prepared to clarify that I was only comparing Targaryens.
However, he did not ask. Instead, he inquired about others.
"Are there any other Targaryen kings who can compare to him?"
He posed this question knowingly, specifying 'Targaryen' to avoid complicating my explanation with the current royal family.
"Not even close," I responded honestly. "There have been kings who achieved great fame and renown, but none come close to what Jaehaerys accomplished."
I wanted to delve deeper into the topic, but the sun was setting, signaling my return home to prepare dinner for my son.
"I'd love to share more, but as a widower, I must attend to my son. It's already evening, and he needs to eat."
He nodded and looked around. "How about we walk to your house, and you can tell me more about the kings? And as I mentioned, I won't let you go unrewarded."
Initially, I thought he was merely saying that to pique my interest in sharing stories, but he wasn't exaggerating.
"For this knowledge, even this amount of money seems insufficient," I admitted, my heart raced as he pulled multiple gold dragons from his pockets. What he showed me was more than I earned in several months.
"I, uh..." I hesitated, overwhelmed by the opportunity. "Well, I suppose we could do that."
"Perfect."
He appeared enthusiastic, clearly invested in the tales enough to spend generously.
And for that, I could only be grateful.
…
…
Seventeen kings.
Aegon I Targaryen (Aegon the Conqueror), Aenys I Targaryen, Maegor I Targaryen (Maegor the Cruel), Jaehaerys I Targaryen (Jaehaerys the Conciliator), Viserys I Targaryen, Aegon II Targaryen, Aegon III Targaryen (Aegon the Younger), Daeron I Targaryen (Daeron the Young Dragon), Baelor I Targaryen (Baelor the Blessed), Viserys II Targaryen, Aegon IV Targaryen (Aegon the Unworthy), Daeron II Targaryen (Daeron the Good), Aerys I Targaryen, Maekar I Targaryen, Aegon V Targaryen (Aegon the Unlikely), Jaehaerys II Targaryen, Aerys II Targaryen (Aerys the Mad King).
Certainly, a formidable list, though none of them enjoyed a long life. Some met violent ends, others succumbed to illness, and a few fell due to folly.
"They say that when a Targaryen is born, the gods flip a coin and the world holds its breath," the man mused. "Greatness and madness are two sides of the same coin, and which side lands up determines what the world sees in a Targaryen."
I wondered what Daenerys would have been like, which side of the coin fate would have bestowed upon her had she ascended to the throne.
There is still time for that, so we shall see.
"But I believe that's all I can share for now."
I shook my head, grateful beyond measure. With that, I pulled out several gold dragons, a sum most would kill for. "Thank you for answering my questions."
"Oh, what you're giving me is more than I deserve."
Such gestures often prompt quicker responses.
"With this, I can finally tend to my sick son."
His mention of a sick son caught my attention. "Your son is ill?"
He nodded sadly. "He's always been frail, but his condition worsened two nights ago. I lacked the funds to take him to a Healer, let alone a Maester."
"If you don't mind, may I see your son?" Before he could decline, I offered a reason. "I've studied herbology extensively and might be able to alleviate his symptoms."
"This..." His eyes widened. "Please, come see my son."
A father's love knows no bounds.
Once I mentioned herbology, he didn't hesitate to lead me inside his home.
It was modest, showing its age with worn-out walls and creaky floors, yet sturdy enough to withstand storms.
He even tended a small garden that he proudly showed me, boasting of lovely flowers I hadn't seen elsewhere.
"My wife adored these flowers," he shared softly. "Since her passing, they've been her only remembrance."
Men endure pain without showing it on their faces. They grieve the hardest but shield their loved ones from their pain.
He guided me through the wooden door, navigating the bad odor that permeated the air.
"He's been suffering from severe diarrhea," he admitted, ashamed and saddened. "Alongside that, he's been battling high fever, loss of appetite, coughing, abdominal pain, and rashes."
These symptoms could indicate several illnesses, but given the limited medical resources in this medieval setting, there were only a few treatable options.
As I entered the room, I had to cover my nose due to the foul stench, and the boy looked paler than anyone I'd seen.
I approached cautiously, examining his body. Drawing upon my elemental magic, I identified the disease's components.
In this world, my magic was attuned differently, more potent despite the weaker inhabitants.
Perhaps more potent than in my previous world.
What did that imply?
It meant this world concealed strong beings and magic.
In this instance, it meant my magic was attuned to this realm's absolute.
Utilizing my elemental magic, I dismantled the bacterial elements.
"Typhoid."
"Excuse me?"
Without explaining further, I focused on eliminating the bacteria inside his body. It was painstaking work, but it did bear results.
Had I wielded Dark Magic, the task would have been easier. However, I'd chosen stupidly and couldn't turn back.
So, I did what I could. Breaking down the bacteria swiftly before they could regenerate, fortifying his body to enhance his immunity.
Seconds turned to minutes as his father and I stood focused over the boy.
After a considerable time, I sensed the final bacteria dissolve, eradicating the typhoid from his system.
Looking at the boy, I observed his complexion improve, his face relaxing without the pain of illness.
"Y-You did it?" His father trembled, tears welling in his eyes, perhaps the first time he'd openly wept in ages. "You've saved my son."
"He still needs nourishment, rest, and improved hygiene," I advised the teary-eyed man. "Care for him well, and he'll recover."
"I-I..." He struggled for words. "What can I pay you?"
I shook my head firmly. "Oh, your stories have more than sufficed. It's more than I could have hoped for."
"But—"
"It's fine. I merely followed the path my god illuminated."
"God?" His astonishment was palpable. I nodded.
"The true path of the one god. Not old, nor new. He's the one true god."
He fell silent as I continued.
"You'll learn of him soon. For God loves all equally."
He stared at me, lost in thought. I understood his contemplation and delved into his mind.
He moved in the direction I anticipated.
Toward an idea I'd implanted.
An idea for a specific tale.
And what story surpasses religious conflict?
A clash of beliefs, where each side champions its god as absolute truth.
As for me? I'll wait to see how this subplot unfolds.
Planting seeds, one mind at a time.
________________________________________________________________________
[[A/N: Back home and will continue with the daily uploads.
Also I tried to use the writing style used in books of kinda old stories, more like stories based on medieval times since GOT is based on old times. Tell me if you like this or should I use the normal tone.
P.S. Since some of you might not know much about this world, let me list out the kings below in order:
Also, about the painting on the wall, it’s inspiration from the painting for Erebos (2022)
Aegon I Targaryen (Aegon the Conqueror):
Aegon I Targaryen, known as Aegon the Conqueror, stands as one of the most significant figures in Westerosi history. Through unparalleled military prowess and the might of his dragons, he united the fractious Seven Kingdoms into a single realm, forging the Iron Throne as a symbol of Targaryen authority. His conquests laid the foundation for the Targaryen dynasty's rule over Westeros, establishing King's Landing as the new capital and implementing an administrative framework that reshaped governance across them realm.
Aenys I Targaryen:
The reign of Aenys I Targaryen, Aegon's firstborn son and successor, was marked by internal strife and challenges to Targaryen authority. Despite his lineage, Aenys faced rebellion and unrest due to his perceived weakness as a ruler. His inability to control the militant Faith of the Seven exacerbated tensions, leading to significant challenges to Targaryen rule and sowing seeds of dissent that would echo through subsequent reigns.
Maegor I Targaryen (Maegor the Cruel):
Maegor I Targaryen, known as Maegor the Cruel, ruled with an iron fist marked by brutality and authoritarianism. His reign was defined by ruthless suppression of rebellion and dissent, often employing the fearsome dragon Balerion the Black Dread to enforce his will. Maegor's construction of the imposing Red Keep and the infamous Dragonpit in King's Landing reflected both his power and the terror he instilled in those who dared challenge him, leaving a legacy of fear and defiance in his wake.
Jaehaerys I Targaryen (Jaehaerys the Conciliator):
Jaehaerys I Targaryen, the longest-reigning Targaryen king, ascended to the throne amid the aftermath of Maegor's turbulent rule. His reign was marked by efforts to reconcile and stabilize the realm, earning him the epithet "Jaehaerys the Conciliator." Jaehaerys instituted significant legal reforms, including the establishment of the first official laws of succession through the Great Councils, which sought to prevent the kind of succession crises that had plagued previous Targaryen reigns.
Viserys I Targaryen:
Viserys I Targaryen's reign brought a period of relative peace and prosperity known as the "Peace of the Dragon." However, his decision to name his daughter Rhaenyra as his heir sparked succession issues that would erupt into the devastating civil war known as the Dance of the Dragons. Viserys' rule, while initially stable, set the stage for future conflict and division within House Targaryen, ultimately testing the dynasty's strength and unity.
Aegon II Targaryen:
Aegon II Targaryen's claim to the throne during the Dance of the Dragons civil war was fiercely contested, leading to a brutal conflict that tore through the realm. His disputed rule and the violent nature of the civil war, which saw dragons pitted against each other and rival claimants vying for power, left a lasting scar on Westeros. Aegon II's reign was marked by the destruction wrought upon the realm and the weakening of Targaryen authority, setting the stage for future challenges to the dynasty's rule.
Aegon III Targaryen (Aegon the Younger):
Following the tumultuous Dance of the Dragons, Aegon III Targaryen ascended to the throne, facing the daunting task of rebuilding a fractured realm. His melancholic nature reflected the sorrow and loss that had befallen the kingdom during the civil war, as he sought to restore stability and order. Aegon III's reign was characterized by efforts to heal the wounds of war and oversee a period of recovery, marking a pivotal chapter in Targaryen history as Westeros sought to rebuild amidst lingering tensions and challenges.
Daeron I Targaryen (Daeron the Young Dragon):
Daeron I Targaryen, known as Daeron the Young Dragon, ascended to the throne as a young king filled with ambition. His reign is best remembered for his military campaigns, particularly the conquest of Dorne, which briefly united the region with the Seven Kingdoms. Daeron's conquests expanded Targaryen influence but also sparked resentment and ultimately led to Dorne's rebellion and independence shortly after his death.
Baelor I Targaryen (Baelor the Blessed):
Baelor I Targaryen, often referred to as Baelor the Blessed, ruled during a period marked by extreme piety and religious fervor. His devotion to the Faith of the Seven led to drastic measures, such as the construction of the Great Sept of Baelor in King's Landing and his own ascetic practices. Baelor's reign was controversial, particularly his decision to imprison his sisters in the Maidenvault within the Red Keep, which fueled intrigue and unrest within the court.
Viserys II Targaryen:
Viserys II Targaryen, despite never officially being crowned king, wielded significant influence as Hand of the King during the reigns of his brother, Aegon III, and nephew, Aegon IV. Known for his political acumen and ability to navigate the complex intrigues of the royal court, Viserys II played a crucial role in stabilizing the realm and preparing the groundwork for his son, Aegon IV's controversial rule.
Aegon IV Targaryen (Aegon the Unworthy):
Aegon IV Targaryen, infamous as Aegon the Unworthy, ruled with indulgence and irresponsibility, leading to widespread discontent and turmoil within the realm. His decision to legitimize his numerous bastards on his deathbed, known as the Great Bastards, set the stage for future conflicts and rebellions, including the Blackfyre Rebellions. Aegon IV's reign was marked by excessive behavior, mistreatment of his queen, and arbitrary executions, leaving a legacy of discord and division within House Targaryen.
Daeron II Targaryen (Daeron the Good):
Daeron II Targaryen, known as Daeron the Good, succeeded his father, Aegon IV, and sought to stabilize the realm after years of turmoil. His marriage alliance with Dorne, known as the "Dornish marriage," brought the contentious region into the fold of the Seven Kingdoms, albeit with lingering cultural and political tensions. Daeron II's reign was marked by efforts to consolidate power and maintain peace, despite ongoing challenges and the looming threat of future conflicts.
Aerys I Targaryen:
Aerys I Targaryen, scholarly and introspective, ascended to the throne with little interest in governance, preferring to focus on intellectual pursuits and studies. His reign saw the rise of his Hand of the King, Bloodraven, a sorcerer and spymaster who governed in his name. Aerys I's disinterest in ruling directly contributed to growing discontent and instability within the realm, setting the stage for future conflicts and power struggles.
Maekar I Targaryen:
Maekar I Targaryen reluctantly assumed the throne after the death of Aerys I and the exile of Bloodraven. His reign was marked by conflicts with his brothers and the looming unrest that would eventually erupt into the Blackfyre Rebellions. Maekar I faced challenges in maintaining stability and unity within the realm, as tensions simmered and rival factions vied for power and influence.
Aegon V Targaryen (Aegon the Unlikely):
Aegon V Targaryen, often remembered as Aegon the Unlikely, sought to enact sweeping social reforms aimed at benefiting the smallfolk and limiting the power of the nobility. His reign, however, faced numerous challenges and setbacks, as entrenched interests and historical precedents hindered his reform efforts. Aegon V's attempts to improve the lives of the common people ultimately proved unsuccessful, setting the stage for future discontent and upheaval within the realm.
Jaehaerys II Targaryen:
Jaehaerys II Targaryen's brief reign was characterized by his poor health and efforts to strengthen alliances within the realm. Despite his short time on the throne, Jaehaerys II played a crucial role in shaping the political landscape and preparing for the challenges that would come to threaten the Targaryen dynasty's continued rule.
Aerys II Targaryen (Aerys the Mad King):
Aerys II Targaryen, known infamously as Aerys the Mad King, ruled during a period of increasing instability and paranoia. His reign was marked by erratic and cruel behavior, including his obsession with wildfire and suspicion towards his subjects. Aerys II's descent into madness ultimately sparked Robert's Rebellion, a continent-wide conflict that ended Targaryen rule over Westeros and led to the downfall of House Targaryen.
Robert Baratheon:
Robert Baratheon's claim to the Iron Throne came through his paternal grandmother, Rhaelle Targaryen. Rhaelle was the daughter of Aegon V Targaryen, also known as Aegon the Unlikely. This makes Robert Baratheon a distant Targaryen descendant, as Aegon V was a member of House Targaryen. Therefore, Robert Baratheon's claim was partly based on his Targaryen ancestry, alongside his rebellion against Aerys II Targaryen, the Mad King.
Joffrey Baratheon:
Joffrey Baratheon, on the other hand, was not a Targaryen descendant but claimed the throne as Robert Baratheon's supposed son (actually the incest secret child of Cersei and Jaime). His reign began after Robert's death and was marked by instability and controversy, notably during the War of the Five Kings.
P.P.S. Took these descriptions directly from the web, you can research more if you want to learn of them.
P.P.P.S. Tell me if you want such descriptions of characters or random history at the bottom to learn more about the ASOIAF world. And I will urge you all to read the ASOIAF books, they are really well written and the world is extremely large and mysterious.]]
