[Chapter Size: 700 Words.]
---------------------------------------
As the first rays of sunlight broke through the sky, the refugees in the slums began another day of struggle.
Although the Cult of the Sun occasionally distributed black bread, their charity made little difference against the ever-growing tide of refugees.
Inside the Great Sept of Baelor, Schiller and the High Sparrow debated the refugee crisis.
The number of displaced had grown drastically, and judging by the current situation, riots seemed almost inevitable.
Hunger had stripped away faith and obedience. Animal instinct ruled the refugees now. Schiller had even heard repeated reports of cannibalism.
These were only the most obvious horrors; unspeakable tragedies plagued the slums daily.
"There is nothing we can do. It is plain as day," the High Sparrow said, pointing toward the slums. "Those who live there are no longer men, but beasts."
"Give them all the food you have, and they will not thank you. They will kill you for more."
Schiller did not argue. The High Sparrow's words, grim as they were, rang true. Refugees fought over scraps each day. Presenting them with plenty would only drive them into greater frenzy.
Seeing Schiller's silence, the High Sparrow pressed on: "Your master is here. Will you not go to him?" His tone was thick with sarcasm. To him, divine power outweighed any crown, for true strength lay in the hearts of the people.
"That is not my master. He is the incarnation of God," Schiller replied, rising to his feet. "One day, you will understand." With that, he turned and left.
The High Sparrow dismissed Schiller's words. His rise to power had been swifter than in the original tale, and the hand behind it was not Cersei, but Tyrion.
From his robes, he pulled out a letter from Cersei. Tyrion held command of the Gold Cloaks, and Cersei sought to gather an armed force of her own.
Her eyes first turned toward Schiller and the Cult of the Sun. At first, she had hoped to win over both factions, but once she discovered Schiller was Theon's man, she flew into a rage and cursed his name.
Left with no other option, she sought an alliance with the High Sparrow. And the Sparrow, for his part, knew that if he was to compete with the Cult of the Sun, he needed the support of high lords, at the very least, a Lord.
Thus, they struck a quick accord. As Queen Regent, Cersei offered food and political favor; in return, the High Sparrow gave her armed followers to suppress dissent.
…
A day later, Joffrey returned to the Red Keep. Upon learning of Theon's arrival, he immediately summoned him.
When Theon entered the throne room with Myrcella at his side, Joffrey sat gleefully upon the Iron Throne.
"I heard you chose Riverrun?"
Theon studied the boy-king in his splendid attire, seated upon the great throne, and could not help but sigh inwardly. Victory had been within Joffrey's grasp, yet he squandered it.
"Indeed, Your Grace. Riverrun is now ours."
At this, Joffrey leapt from the throne, elated. The battle reports had been filled with defeat after defeat, but now, at last, there was good news. And not just any city, but Riverrun, the very heart of the Riverlands.
Then Joffrey's gaze fell on Myrcella. "I hear my uncle wed you to her? At last, he's done something useful!"
Theon curled his lips. Joffrey's hatred of Tyrion was notorious.
In the years to come, especially after Tyrion's fall as Hand, Joffrey would heap humiliation upon him without restraint.
Foolish, twisted boy.
"Fear not, Your Grace. I shall take good care of the Princess."
Joffrey hardly cared about Myrcella's well-being. His concern was whether Theon could defend King's Landing.
"How many men have you brought?"
"Five thousand, Your Grace. All seasoned warriors."
Joffrey's excitement dimmed. He had expected more. Surely after taking Riverrun, Theon should have gained at least three thousand additional men.
Theon read his thoughts at once. "Your Grace, two thousand remain at Riverrun. With Riverrun held, Robb Stark will no longer be a wolf ranging south, but a stray cur without a pack."
—————————
Author's Note:
If you're enjoying the story and wish to support me, you can visit my P-@-t-r-3-0-n, where you can read 50+ extra chapters ahead!
Thank you so much for your support. It means the world! 💙😊
P-@-T -r-3-0-n [.] com / DylanBriak