Stark Quest 2.0: The Search for Shinies
- Thread starter Mazrick
- Start date
SuperSonicSound
Shadowmancer of the Shadow Cabal
Part 2
What happens when Observation failure mixes with ta'veren.
Two-part crack story, will continue either today or tomorrow.
...This is not revenge for all this talk about waifuing Daenerys, pinky swear!
Omake: "Birth Of A Hero, part 1"
Jon was just working out the final details of their plan to attack Illyrio's mansion, when he noticed that his brother had frozen still and was breathing heavily.
"Is everything alright, Harlon?" he asked worriedly.
Harlon's form suddenly convulsed and toppled to the floor, and Jon hurried to support him, even going so far as employ Time Manipulation magic to speed himself up.
He had known this was a bad idea the moment Harlon had suggested it!
In light of Ithroen's recent... injury and the news the demon had brought, Harlon had decided to use Observation on the mansion to divine some information on their enemies. Jon had protested initially, and volunteered to do it himself, as he had more experience with the Time branch of magic, but Harlon had dismissed those arguments out of hand.
Jon, he had said with a slight hint of bitterness on his face, was their main combatant, and without him they would almost certainly fail, no matter how well they planned this strike. It was regrettable, but in this case, Harlon was the more expendable of the two. Of course, Harlon had added, he would take every possible precaution, but in the end, Harlon going slightly insane could be compensated for far more easily than Jon losing his marbles.
Looking at Harlon's spasming face and blank eyes, Jon regretted agreeing to this foolish endeavor. Harlon was far too new to Observation to try something so strenuous!
Picking Harlon up and laying him onto a free bed, the Sworn Sword used what little medicinal knowledge he had absorbed from his brother's random lectures, and tried to discern the heir's condition. Yet all he could say with certainty was that Harlon's vitals seemed to be stable.
This was obviously the result of a failed Observation, but beyond that?..
He just didn't know enough. Never had Jon regretted his own ignorance as much as at that moment. Perhaps if he had learned more magic, or taken his other studies more seriously, he wouldn't have had to wallow in this uncertainty. What if whatever afflicted Harlon was serious? What if he never recovered? Join would never forgive himself if that happened.
A few minutes passed, and the heir finally stirred, his eyes flashing swiftly finding Jon's and smiling at him with confidence. Jon would have slumped in relief if he hadn't immersed himself in the Void to keep control of his emotions.
Nevertheless, he immediately knew that something was different. Harlon didn't look crazy, but his expression was subtly offbeat, a glint in his eyes and a crook in his smile that hadn't been present before.
"Everything alright, Halron?" Jon repeated his earlier question.
It obviously wasn't, but the brothers had agreed beforehand that as long as Harlon didn't lose it too badly, they could salvage the plan.
Jon snorted. The plan, if it could be called that. What they were trying to do was already insanely risky, so Harlon could hardly make it any worse.
While he had been thinking about this, Harlon had already had already stood up and was stretching his arms and legs, probably to get rid of the cramps.
"Yes," the heir replied, "I feel fine. Better than fine, actually!"
"Hadn't your Observation failed?" Jon raised an eyebrow curiously.
"Well, yes and no," Harlon shuffled his feet in embarrassment. "There was a barrier around the princess, and it had a pretty violent reaction to my attempt at piercing it."
Seeng Jon gear up for a rant, Harlon quickly interrupted him:
"But I still got some useful visions of the future out of it, and am in control of my faculties!"
As proof, Harlon recited the solutions to a few complex mathematical problems and told Jon about a few choice memories. That reassured Jon. Perhaps the consequences were negligible and the damage only superficial?
Yet when he asked whether they should go forward with the attack, Harlon looked almost... uncertain.
Had he found something out while Observing the mansion? Did he want to call this whole thing off and try something else? They couldn't afford to hesitate, since their window of opportunity was getting smaller with every minute, but Harlon had always been the smartest of the Stark siblings. Perhaps he had stumbled upon some flaw in their strategy?
The heir seemed to have come to some sort of conclusion, and nodded in reply.
"There is indeed a problem."
Crossing his arms and sighing tiredly, Jon got ready to hear his brother's expert insights. Did Harlon think that it was too risky and they should wait for Ithroen to get better? There was nothing wrong with wanting to hedge your bets-
"This won't be enough to impress Daenerys," Harlon continued grimly.
"What?" Jon exclaimed incredulously.
"I said: 'This won't be enough to impress Daenerys'," Harlon repeated patiently, as if he was speaking about a matter of grave importance.
"Oh damn it all!" Jon smacked his face with his hand in exasperation, "You're worrying about women when your brother's very life is at stake? Are you insane-"
He stopped abruptly.
Silly question. Of course Harlon was insane, and hoping otherwise had been too optimistic. How should he salvage this-
"Don't worry, Jon," Harlon patted him on his head in a gesture of comfort, "I've already seen the ending, and I won't let anything get in the way! Robb will survive, and Daenerys will be mine! I just have to make a few preparations."
At that time, Jon had finally recognized the wild shine in Harlon's eyes.
It was Harlon at his worst, in pursuit of an idea that he wouldn't let go no matter what.
Jon almost pitied his aunt, but reminded himself that they were enemies, and his duty was to Harlon first and foremost.
"What do you need?" he asked resignedly.
"Rope," Harlon said after thinking about it for a moment, "some white paint, a block of wood and a horse. Oh, and some fur, doesn't matter what kind. That should be all. Everything else, I can do by myself."
...That didn't sound so bad. Was he missing something?
1016 Words
What happens when Observation failure mixes with ta'veren.
Two-part crack story, will continue either today or tomorrow.
...This is not revenge for all this talk about waifuing Daenerys, pinky swear!
Omake: "Birth Of A Hero, part 1"
Jon was just working out the final details of their plan to attack Illyrio's mansion, when he noticed that his brother had frozen still and was breathing heavily.
"Is everything alright, Harlon?" he asked worriedly.
Harlon's form suddenly convulsed and toppled to the floor, and Jon hurried to support him, even going so far as employ Time Manipulation magic to speed himself up.
He had known this was a bad idea the moment Harlon had suggested it!
In light of Ithroen's recent... injury and the news the demon had brought, Harlon had decided to use Observation on the mansion to divine some information on their enemies. Jon had protested initially, and volunteered to do it himself, as he had more experience with the Time branch of magic, but Harlon had dismissed those arguments out of hand.
Jon, he had said with a slight hint of bitterness on his face, was their main combatant, and without him they would almost certainly fail, no matter how well they planned this strike. It was regrettable, but in this case, Harlon was the more expendable of the two. Of course, Harlon had added, he would take every possible precaution, but in the end, Harlon going slightly insane could be compensated for far more easily than Jon losing his marbles.
Looking at Harlon's spasming face and blank eyes, Jon regretted agreeing to this foolish endeavor. Harlon was far too new to Observation to try something so strenuous!
Picking Harlon up and laying him onto a free bed, the Sworn Sword used what little medicinal knowledge he had absorbed from his brother's random lectures, and tried to discern the heir's condition. Yet all he could say with certainty was that Harlon's vitals seemed to be stable.
This was obviously the result of a failed Observation, but beyond that?..
He just didn't know enough. Never had Jon regretted his own ignorance as much as at that moment. Perhaps if he had learned more magic, or taken his other studies more seriously, he wouldn't have had to wallow in this uncertainty. What if whatever afflicted Harlon was serious? What if he never recovered? Join would never forgive himself if that happened.
A few minutes passed, and the heir finally stirred, his eyes flashing swiftly finding Jon's and smiling at him with confidence. Jon would have slumped in relief if he hadn't immersed himself in the Void to keep control of his emotions.
Nevertheless, he immediately knew that something was different. Harlon didn't look crazy, but his expression was subtly offbeat, a glint in his eyes and a crook in his smile that hadn't been present before.
"Everything alright, Halron?" Jon repeated his earlier question.
It obviously wasn't, but the brothers had agreed beforehand that as long as Harlon didn't lose it too badly, they could salvage the plan.
Jon snorted. The plan, if it could be called that. What they were trying to do was already insanely risky, so Harlon could hardly make it any worse.
While he had been thinking about this, Harlon had already had already stood up and was stretching his arms and legs, probably to get rid of the cramps.
"Yes," the heir replied, "I feel fine. Better than fine, actually!"
"Hadn't your Observation failed?" Jon raised an eyebrow curiously.
"Well, yes and no," Harlon shuffled his feet in embarrassment. "There was a barrier around the princess, and it had a pretty violent reaction to my attempt at piercing it."
Seeng Jon gear up for a rant, Harlon quickly interrupted him:
"But I still got some useful visions of the future out of it, and am in control of my faculties!"
As proof, Harlon recited the solutions to a few complex mathematical problems and told Jon about a few choice memories. That reassured Jon. Perhaps the consequences were negligible and the damage only superficial?
Yet when he asked whether they should go forward with the attack, Harlon looked almost... uncertain.
Had he found something out while Observing the mansion? Did he want to call this whole thing off and try something else? They couldn't afford to hesitate, since their window of opportunity was getting smaller with every minute, but Harlon had always been the smartest of the Stark siblings. Perhaps he had stumbled upon some flaw in their strategy?
The heir seemed to have come to some sort of conclusion, and nodded in reply.
"There is indeed a problem."
Crossing his arms and sighing tiredly, Jon got ready to hear his brother's expert insights. Did Harlon think that it was too risky and they should wait for Ithroen to get better? There was nothing wrong with wanting to hedge your bets-
"This won't be enough to impress Daenerys," Harlon continued grimly.
"What?" Jon exclaimed incredulously.
"I said: 'This won't be enough to impress Daenerys'," Harlon repeated patiently, as if he was speaking about a matter of grave importance.
"Oh damn it all!" Jon smacked his face with his hand in exasperation, "You're worrying about women when your brother's very life is at stake? Are you insane-"
He stopped abruptly.
Silly question. Of course Harlon was insane, and hoping otherwise had been too optimistic. How should he salvage this-
"Don't worry, Jon," Harlon patted him on his head in a gesture of comfort, "I've already seen the ending, and I won't let anything get in the way! Robb will survive, and Daenerys will be mine! I just have to make a few preparations."
At that time, Jon had finally recognized the wild shine in Harlon's eyes.
It was Harlon at his worst, in pursuit of an idea that he wouldn't let go no matter what.
Jon almost pitied his aunt, but reminded himself that they were enemies, and his duty was to Harlon first and foremost.
"What do you need?" he asked resignedly.
"Rope," Harlon said after thinking about it for a moment, "some white paint, a block of wood and a horse. Oh, and some fur, doesn't matter what kind. That should be all. Everything else, I can do by myself."
...That didn't sound so bad. Was he missing something?
1016 Words
Last edited:
Mazrick
Shai'tan
- Location
- The Pit of Doom
Harlon Stark, Heir to Winterfell
Underground Complex, Pentos
October 28, 297 AL
Now that Harlon's interrogation of Tavar had come to an end for the moment, he decided to let Tavar's host wake up to question her. Knowledge was power, and the woman was almost certainly a victim in this entire situation.
However, the adrenaline was leaving his system, and even with the Sequences running, he was feeling tired. The following day promised to be eventful, so he headed to the refresher. A slight delay in plans was preferable to making a mistake.
Harlon looked at Jon. "We should get some sleep if we can." He gestured towards the prisoners."I'll dose them, so that they stay out until morning. As soon as Tavar's vessel awakens, we'll speak with her. She may be the biggest victim of this entire sordid affair."
Jon nodded. "Alright, here." The shardbearer removed the cuendillar chain, and handed it to Harlon. "Help me get back in the plate. I think I'll be sleeping in it for the foreseeable future."
Good strategy. Things could get even more dangerous from here onwards.
Harlon put the chain around his neck, and carefully helped Jon put the Shards back on. When they were done, Harlon motioned towards the cuendillar seal. "We've got to find a good hiding place for that, and only we may know of its location. If things go wrong, I want her trapped in the prison for a very long time."
Thus, they spent ten minutes fashioning a hidden compartment with the assistance of a Shardblade, and placed the seal within.
Afterwards, Harlon dosed the prisoners, removed his disguise, took a hot bath, exchanged Ice for Robb's unnamed Shardblade, and promptly fell into a dreamless slumber.
The Stark woke up several hours later feeling refreshed, and performed a shortened version of his exercise routine. He wouldn't feel quite like himself if he didn't. Afterwards he awoke a grumbling Jon.
The pair ate quickly and silently from the food stores in the complex. It was well stocked, almost as if Illyrio had anticipated being besieged.
Then they headed to the cells. The three prisoners had been separated, and the two female mages had been gagged and blindfolded in case either woke up. Mages could be dangerous, and at least the princess would be hostile upon regaining consciousness.
Luckily, Robb didn't seem to be interested in the prisoners, and was busying himself seeing to the men. So, no troublesome questions needed to be answered. Yet.
Dawn was still two and a half hours away, so there should be ample time to interrogate the host before moving on with the business of the day.
Upon arrival, Harlon said, "She'll be out for another hour. This is as good a time as any to practice our skills. When she wakes I want you behind her with Justice bared. I don't think she's going to be hostile, but we can't afford to take any chances. We'll have our Defensive Sequences Active, too."
Jon nodded sullenly. He was not a morning person.
Harlon sat on a stool, and began cycling through his Sequences. As he ran through Destruction, he noted that something was different. Somehow he seemed to perceive deeper. Perhaps the failed attack against Illyrio gave him some insight into the Destruction Sequence.
The mage delved inwards, and dissected the abstractions. Pathos, ethos, and logos knotted together in previously alien ways. A flurry of understanding swept through his mind, and he exulted. This thing made sense. A piece of a vast and complex puzzle had just presented itself to him.
Suddenly, it hit him. With this Sequence, he could kill a person with a thought. This was magic as great as anything in Old Nan's stories. The realization struck him like a blow from on high. This power would be both a boon and a burden.
As he came to peace with this new reality, the girl started to wriggle and squirm on the floor.
Harlon looked up, and across the room Jon already had Justice in his gauntleted hand. Harlond placed his defenses in Active.
Five minutes later she began to panic. The blonde woman was awake.
Harlon Activated Focus and Sense. They'd help perceive any lies.
"Its okay. You're safe." The scholar reassured. She went still. "Nod if you can understand me"
She nodded.
"You are bound because we know you are a Mage, and I didn't want you to do anything violent when you first awoke. I'll remove your bindings if you promise not to do anything foolish. I am not alone nor am I defenseless. Any hostile action will be dealt with accordingly."
Harlon paused to let the prisoner process his words, and then he continued, "Nod if you agree."
Another pause, and the woman nodded.
"Okay, I'm going to undo your bonds. There is a Shardbearer behind you do not be alarmed. Also, as I said I am not defenseless, do not try Mind, Time, nor Naming against me. You shall regret it." Harlon warned as he moved to free her as gently as possible.
The heir became keenly aware of how much of a woman she was. Long legs, ample bosom, soft ivory white skin, pale lustrous hair, a gentle heart shaped face, and large green eyes were revealed when the blindfold was removed. She could have been anywhere from 18 to 25 years old.
She was a true beauty, even terrified as she was. How had he not noticed before?
Harlon focused on her, and he saw confusion written across her delicate features. She was trying to keep from shaking. She reeked of fear. When she glanced at Jon behind her, her eyes widened, and she resisted the urge to throw herself on the floor in obeisance. Shardbearers were often revered in the east.
The Stark began gently. "Hello, I'm Harlon Stark of Winterfell, and that is my brother and First Sword, Jon." Her eyes went wide. For a non-Shardbearer to order a full Shardbearer about was a sign of great power in many places. "We came to rescue my brother from the Targaryen prince, and, well, things escalated quickly.
"I know that you must have been through hell. It must have been terrifying to not have control of your own body. And the knowledge that there's a chance that this month, this week, this day and hour may have been your last would have driven me mad.
"You've been freed of Tavar. We've contrived a way to bind her, so you won't have to worry about her any longer. But, I'm in the middle of something of a war with Khal Drogo and Jorah Mormont at the moment, so I can't let you go free, yet. For that I apologize."
At the mention of Tavar the girl went rigid with fear, and she didn't relax. Instead, her face went blank.
"But, this is as much for your protection as its ours. If Jorah or Drogo find you, they might react badly. Really badly. Especially since Tavar was instrumental in Illyrio's plans. The Dothraki do not have a reputation for being kind to their captives."
She flinched at the last, and Harlon regretted it immediately. Perhaps, she had been a victim of the horse lords in the past.
Still, she seemed to have calmed down, and Harlon continued, "What's your name? Where are you from?"
When she replied, it was in a somehow seductive tone. "Honored Master, this one is called Erina, and received training in the House of the Lily. This one is pleased to serve."
Slavery. This woman had been trained in the infamous city of Yunkai as a bed slave.
Fury slashed through the Stark, and he fought to control himself. Humans were not chattel, but getting angry would do no good. Harlon remained silent until he could speak evenly. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Erina, but I am no master and you are no slave. You are free now."
Erina looked at Harlon with concealed skepticism, and nodded hesitantly, "As you say, Ma... Lord Stark."
Obviously, she didn't believe him, but he would prove his words to her. Actions spoke louder than any words.
"Do you understand what happened? Do you know what the Forsaken are?" Harlon asked.
"Mas... Illyrio bought me from the House of the Lily three years ago, I think, and then he gave me to the goddess Tavar. All in order that I could be her holy vessel in this world. She taught me the three magics, and..." Erina shuddered, and her voice quivered as she pleaded, "Please bring her back, master! This one doesn't want her to be wroth! This one will is a good slave! A good conduit!"
"Its alright!" Harlon said consolingly as he put out a hand to forestall her terror. He didn't miss the slight, involuntary flinch the movement provoked in her. "She's no goddess. Instead she's a pretender. As close to a demon as to make no difference. A relic from another age that threatens this world, still. As I said, I've bound her with ancient magics, and she will be no threat to you. She, and the rest of the Forsaken, inhabit hosts to interact with the world, but if it is within my power, they will be dealt with."
Harlon realized this was one of his overarching goals, and that his tone had become steel. The fledgling mage would grow in strength, and then seek out the Forsaken wherever they hid, and cleanse the world of their taint. Ithroen, if he had not been banished, had a toehold in the Seven Kingdoms, but he would be the last.
Erina cast a searching look at him, and she nodded after a long moment. "You must be a powerful mage to have defeated the godd... I mean, Tavar."
"Mostly lucky." Harlon blushed, and concentrated on not sinking into her green eyes.
"Then you are truly favored by the gods indeed." She said with a weak smile that lit her face up like the morning sun.
No. There was business to attend to. "Now I'm going to ask you some questions. Is that alright?" Erina nodded. "How capable of using magic are you now?"
"I am skilled with the Names of Wind, Water, Steel, and Song. I excelled in the Control and Defensive Sequences and Augmentative Sequences. But, her hol... Tavar thought me unworthy to learn Observation."
"Song?" Harlon asked.
"Yes, Song. Like the Wind it is ever changing, but it allows me to see deeper into the songs that I hear. To understand it on a level that is beyond instinctual. It is a hard thing to describe, and her... Tavar thought it useless. But, perhaps I could show you some time."
"I would like that very much." Harlon said sincerely. That sounded very advanced indeed.
She matched his smile with a genuine one of her, and Harlon breathe caught in his throat. She fairly glowed.
He gulped, and asked the next question. "Were you aware while Tavar was in control?"
Erina's smile fell, and she seemed to sink back within herself. Harlon cursed himself for a fool. He had never been good with the fairer sex.
"Yes. Tavar said that it was so that I could witness her holy will be done." She answered timidly.
Harlon paused. "Would you be willing to tell us the things you saw while Tavar was controlling you? I apologize for the necessity, but it could be very important. Our lives, and so much more, could rest on any information you have."
Erina paused, and then nodded.
"We have Daenerys and Viserys as prisoners. Do you knows what Tavar taught Dany, and how skilled she is?" Harlon asked.
"Yes. Tavar spent much time teaching the Princess, and she knows the name of Fire and Earth as well as being a beginner in the mind arts. With Fire, she is particularly adept."
"Thank you. Did you see anything that you believe would be important we should know?"
"No, my lord. Illyrio kept Tavar ignorant as he could, and kept her assigned to the Princess as a tutor and a bodyguard."
"Did Illyrio know I was in the city? If so, how?"
"I don't know." She sounded worried now, and seemed to be holding back tears.
"It's alright. I kind of expected these answers. The slaver scum was no man's fool. Still, I'd like to finish asking some questions." Erina nodded. "Do you have any information on Drogo?"
"Only that they planned on the princess marrying him, and using his army to invade Westeros. I never met him. Tavar claimed that he was the Champion of an enemy god, and that he might see her divinity." She bit her lip.
Champions of the Gods? That didn't sound good.
"Is there anything else you know about the princess? Or what her artifacts do?"
"She was not aware of the go... Tavar's true nature, and Tavar used Sequences to make her act more assertively. I... I think she wanted to take for her own, even though she did not say as much to me. Her artifacts: the ivory pendant is an artifact to stop Observation of Daenerys. Tavar called the ruby necklace an Angreal, though I don't know what that is."
Harlon chewed on this information for a minute, and then realized that it was near time to begin the day.
"Do you want or need anything? This is going to be a busy day indeed." Harlon asked.
"I'm a little hungry, and thirsty, too. Also, I'd like a lyre and a book." Erina answered.
"Any book in particular?" Haron said excitedly. Rare was the woman who could appreciate literature!
"I'm sure you'd know best, but I do like books about the gallant Knights of the West." She blushed prettily.
"Ah, I know just the one!" Harlon exclaimed. "It's a collection of tales of the knights of Westeros written by King Jaehaerys himself! Within you-" Jon cleared his throat loudly and Harlon stopped short. He blushed. "Right, well, um, I'll see that you have everything you need."
Harlon retrieved a quill and some parchment. Luckily the stores in the complex had included writing implements!
And quickly scratched out a note with a list of items he would need. "Jon take this and give it to some of the men."
The list included:
Pentoshi clothing, to make the men blend in better.
A bowl, an assortment of herbs, and a silver knife.
More Essence of Night.
Some books to keep any prisoners you keep awake and unbound entertained.
A decent cyvasse set.
Some decent food and wine.
A lyre
Some caged birds. Preferably ravens.
As Jon left, Harlon turned to face Erina.
What do you do with Erina?
[ ] She's trustworthy. She may accompany.
[ ] She seems like a victim, but still she needs to stay in her cell
[ ] She needs to be bound
[ ] Write-in.
Plans
[ ] Continue with your earlier plan.
[ ] Launch a strike at Jorah when he's alone.
[ ] Focus on Drogo. Find out what a CHampion of the Gods is.
[ ] Write-in.
Name your new Shardblade
[ ] Certainty
[ ] Wrath
[ ] Judgement
[ ] No name
[ ] Write-in
Underground Complex, Pentos
October 28, 297 AL
Now that Harlon's interrogation of Tavar had come to an end for the moment, he decided to let Tavar's host wake up to question her. Knowledge was power, and the woman was almost certainly a victim in this entire situation.
However, the adrenaline was leaving his system, and even with the Sequences running, he was feeling tired. The following day promised to be eventful, so he headed to the refresher. A slight delay in plans was preferable to making a mistake.
Harlon looked at Jon. "We should get some sleep if we can." He gestured towards the prisoners."I'll dose them, so that they stay out until morning. As soon as Tavar's vessel awakens, we'll speak with her. She may be the biggest victim of this entire sordid affair."
Jon nodded. "Alright, here." The shardbearer removed the cuendillar chain, and handed it to Harlon. "Help me get back in the plate. I think I'll be sleeping in it for the foreseeable future."
Good strategy. Things could get even more dangerous from here onwards.
Harlon put the chain around his neck, and carefully helped Jon put the Shards back on. When they were done, Harlon motioned towards the cuendillar seal. "We've got to find a good hiding place for that, and only we may know of its location. If things go wrong, I want her trapped in the prison for a very long time."
Thus, they spent ten minutes fashioning a hidden compartment with the assistance of a Shardblade, and placed the seal within.
Afterwards, Harlon dosed the prisoners, removed his disguise, took a hot bath, exchanged Ice for Robb's unnamed Shardblade, and promptly fell into a dreamless slumber.
The Stark woke up several hours later feeling refreshed, and performed a shortened version of his exercise routine. He wouldn't feel quite like himself if he didn't. Afterwards he awoke a grumbling Jon.
The pair ate quickly and silently from the food stores in the complex. It was well stocked, almost as if Illyrio had anticipated being besieged.
Then they headed to the cells. The three prisoners had been separated, and the two female mages had been gagged and blindfolded in case either woke up. Mages could be dangerous, and at least the princess would be hostile upon regaining consciousness.
Luckily, Robb didn't seem to be interested in the prisoners, and was busying himself seeing to the men. So, no troublesome questions needed to be answered. Yet.
Dawn was still two and a half hours away, so there should be ample time to interrogate the host before moving on with the business of the day.
Upon arrival, Harlon said, "She'll be out for another hour. This is as good a time as any to practice our skills. When she wakes I want you behind her with Justice bared. I don't think she's going to be hostile, but we can't afford to take any chances. We'll have our Defensive Sequences Active, too."
Jon nodded sullenly. He was not a morning person.
Harlon sat on a stool, and began cycling through his Sequences. As he ran through Destruction, he noted that something was different. Somehow he seemed to perceive deeper. Perhaps the failed attack against Illyrio gave him some insight into the Destruction Sequence.
The mage delved inwards, and dissected the abstractions. Pathos, ethos, and logos knotted together in previously alien ways. A flurry of understanding swept through his mind, and he exulted. This thing made sense. A piece of a vast and complex puzzle had just presented itself to him.
Suddenly, it hit him. With this Sequence, he could kill a person with a thought. This was magic as great as anything in Old Nan's stories. The realization struck him like a blow from on high. This power would be both a boon and a burden.
As he came to peace with this new reality, the girl started to wriggle and squirm on the floor.
Harlon looked up, and across the room Jon already had Justice in his gauntleted hand. Harlond placed his defenses in Active.
Five minutes later she began to panic. The blonde woman was awake.
Harlon Activated Focus and Sense. They'd help perceive any lies.
"Its okay. You're safe." The scholar reassured. She went still. "Nod if you can understand me"
She nodded.
"You are bound because we know you are a Mage, and I didn't want you to do anything violent when you first awoke. I'll remove your bindings if you promise not to do anything foolish. I am not alone nor am I defenseless. Any hostile action will be dealt with accordingly."
Harlon paused to let the prisoner process his words, and then he continued, "Nod if you agree."
Another pause, and the woman nodded.
"Okay, I'm going to undo your bonds. There is a Shardbearer behind you do not be alarmed. Also, as I said I am not defenseless, do not try Mind, Time, nor Naming against me. You shall regret it." Harlon warned as he moved to free her as gently as possible.
The heir became keenly aware of how much of a woman she was. Long legs, ample bosom, soft ivory white skin, pale lustrous hair, a gentle heart shaped face, and large green eyes were revealed when the blindfold was removed. She could have been anywhere from 18 to 25 years old.
She was a true beauty, even terrified as she was. How had he not noticed before?
Harlon focused on her, and he saw confusion written across her delicate features. She was trying to keep from shaking. She reeked of fear. When she glanced at Jon behind her, her eyes widened, and she resisted the urge to throw herself on the floor in obeisance. Shardbearers were often revered in the east.
The Stark began gently. "Hello, I'm Harlon Stark of Winterfell, and that is my brother and First Sword, Jon." Her eyes went wide. For a non-Shardbearer to order a full Shardbearer about was a sign of great power in many places. "We came to rescue my brother from the Targaryen prince, and, well, things escalated quickly.
"I know that you must have been through hell. It must have been terrifying to not have control of your own body. And the knowledge that there's a chance that this month, this week, this day and hour may have been your last would have driven me mad.
"You've been freed of Tavar. We've contrived a way to bind her, so you won't have to worry about her any longer. But, I'm in the middle of something of a war with Khal Drogo and Jorah Mormont at the moment, so I can't let you go free, yet. For that I apologize."
At the mention of Tavar the girl went rigid with fear, and she didn't relax. Instead, her face went blank.
"But, this is as much for your protection as its ours. If Jorah or Drogo find you, they might react badly. Really badly. Especially since Tavar was instrumental in Illyrio's plans. The Dothraki do not have a reputation for being kind to their captives."
She flinched at the last, and Harlon regretted it immediately. Perhaps, she had been a victim of the horse lords in the past.
Still, she seemed to have calmed down, and Harlon continued, "What's your name? Where are you from?"
When she replied, it was in a somehow seductive tone. "Honored Master, this one is called Erina, and received training in the House of the Lily. This one is pleased to serve."
Slavery. This woman had been trained in the infamous city of Yunkai as a bed slave.
Fury slashed through the Stark, and he fought to control himself. Humans were not chattel, but getting angry would do no good. Harlon remained silent until he could speak evenly. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Erina, but I am no master and you are no slave. You are free now."
Erina looked at Harlon with concealed skepticism, and nodded hesitantly, "As you say, Ma... Lord Stark."
Obviously, she didn't believe him, but he would prove his words to her. Actions spoke louder than any words.
"Do you understand what happened? Do you know what the Forsaken are?" Harlon asked.
"Mas... Illyrio bought me from the House of the Lily three years ago, I think, and then he gave me to the goddess Tavar. All in order that I could be her holy vessel in this world. She taught me the three magics, and..." Erina shuddered, and her voice quivered as she pleaded, "Please bring her back, master! This one doesn't want her to be wroth! This one will is a good slave! A good conduit!"
"Its alright!" Harlon said consolingly as he put out a hand to forestall her terror. He didn't miss the slight, involuntary flinch the movement provoked in her. "She's no goddess. Instead she's a pretender. As close to a demon as to make no difference. A relic from another age that threatens this world, still. As I said, I've bound her with ancient magics, and she will be no threat to you. She, and the rest of the Forsaken, inhabit hosts to interact with the world, but if it is within my power, they will be dealt with."
Harlon realized this was one of his overarching goals, and that his tone had become steel. The fledgling mage would grow in strength, and then seek out the Forsaken wherever they hid, and cleanse the world of their taint. Ithroen, if he had not been banished, had a toehold in the Seven Kingdoms, but he would be the last.
Erina cast a searching look at him, and she nodded after a long moment. "You must be a powerful mage to have defeated the godd... I mean, Tavar."
"Mostly lucky." Harlon blushed, and concentrated on not sinking into her green eyes.
"Then you are truly favored by the gods indeed." She said with a weak smile that lit her face up like the morning sun.
No. There was business to attend to. "Now I'm going to ask you some questions. Is that alright?" Erina nodded. "How capable of using magic are you now?"
"I am skilled with the Names of Wind, Water, Steel, and Song. I excelled in the Control and Defensive Sequences and Augmentative Sequences. But, her hol... Tavar thought me unworthy to learn Observation."
"Song?" Harlon asked.
"Yes, Song. Like the Wind it is ever changing, but it allows me to see deeper into the songs that I hear. To understand it on a level that is beyond instinctual. It is a hard thing to describe, and her... Tavar thought it useless. But, perhaps I could show you some time."
"I would like that very much." Harlon said sincerely. That sounded very advanced indeed.
She matched his smile with a genuine one of her, and Harlon breathe caught in his throat. She fairly glowed.
He gulped, and asked the next question. "Were you aware while Tavar was in control?"
Erina's smile fell, and she seemed to sink back within herself. Harlon cursed himself for a fool. He had never been good with the fairer sex.
"Yes. Tavar said that it was so that I could witness her holy will be done." She answered timidly.
Harlon paused. "Would you be willing to tell us the things you saw while Tavar was controlling you? I apologize for the necessity, but it could be very important. Our lives, and so much more, could rest on any information you have."
Erina paused, and then nodded.
"We have Daenerys and Viserys as prisoners. Do you knows what Tavar taught Dany, and how skilled she is?" Harlon asked.
"Yes. Tavar spent much time teaching the Princess, and she knows the name of Fire and Earth as well as being a beginner in the mind arts. With Fire, she is particularly adept."
"Thank you. Did you see anything that you believe would be important we should know?"
"No, my lord. Illyrio kept Tavar ignorant as he could, and kept her assigned to the Princess as a tutor and a bodyguard."
"Did Illyrio know I was in the city? If so, how?"
"I don't know." She sounded worried now, and seemed to be holding back tears.
"It's alright. I kind of expected these answers. The slaver scum was no man's fool. Still, I'd like to finish asking some questions." Erina nodded. "Do you have any information on Drogo?"
"Only that they planned on the princess marrying him, and using his army to invade Westeros. I never met him. Tavar claimed that he was the Champion of an enemy god, and that he might see her divinity." She bit her lip.
Champions of the Gods? That didn't sound good.
"Is there anything else you know about the princess? Or what her artifacts do?"
"She was not aware of the go... Tavar's true nature, and Tavar used Sequences to make her act more assertively. I... I think she wanted to take for her own, even though she did not say as much to me. Her artifacts: the ivory pendant is an artifact to stop Observation of Daenerys. Tavar called the ruby necklace an Angreal, though I don't know what that is."
Harlon chewed on this information for a minute, and then realized that it was near time to begin the day.
"Do you want or need anything? This is going to be a busy day indeed." Harlon asked.
"I'm a little hungry, and thirsty, too. Also, I'd like a lyre and a book." Erina answered.
"Any book in particular?" Haron said excitedly. Rare was the woman who could appreciate literature!
"I'm sure you'd know best, but I do like books about the gallant Knights of the West." She blushed prettily.
"Ah, I know just the one!" Harlon exclaimed. "It's a collection of tales of the knights of Westeros written by King Jaehaerys himself! Within you-" Jon cleared his throat loudly and Harlon stopped short. He blushed. "Right, well, um, I'll see that you have everything you need."
Harlon retrieved a quill and some parchment. Luckily the stores in the complex had included writing implements!
And quickly scratched out a note with a list of items he would need. "Jon take this and give it to some of the men."
The list included:
Pentoshi clothing, to make the men blend in better.
A bowl, an assortment of herbs, and a silver knife.
More Essence of Night.
Some books to keep any prisoners you keep awake and unbound entertained.
A decent cyvasse set.
Some decent food and wine.
A lyre
Some caged birds. Preferably ravens.
As Jon left, Harlon turned to face Erina.
What do you do with Erina?
[ ] She's trustworthy. She may accompany.
[ ] She seems like a victim, but still she needs to stay in her cell
[ ] She needs to be bound
[ ] Write-in.
Plans
[ ] Continue with your earlier plan.
[ ] Launch a strike at Jorah when he's alone.
[ ] Focus on Drogo. Find out what a CHampion of the Gods is.
[ ] Write-in.
Name your new Shardblade
[ ] Certainty
[ ] Wrath
[ ] Judgement
[ ] No name
[ ] Write-in
Name: Harlon Stark
Sex: Male
Age: 18
Favored Status: Old Gods
Attributes
Mental
Intelligence- 10
Wisdom- 9.1
Will- 7.7
Physical
Appearance- 7.5
Strength- 5.1
Dexterity- 5.1
Vitality- 7.1
Social
Reputation- 4.8
Presence- 8.3
Skills
Knowledge
Lore:
Combat:
Armor Proficiency: Shardplate, Leather
Technique: Archery 1; Axe 2, Dagger 2; Greatsword 3.75; Shardblade 4.35; Spear 1; Sword/Board 2.5
Awareness: Strategic 8; Tactical 7
Social:
Perception: 8
Manipulation: 4.5
Leadership: 5.5
Harlon Stark's Personal Inventory
Funds: 100,000 Gold Dragons
Attire:
Transportation: 1 wagon and 2 horses
Rare Books: Illyrio's cyphered book; Defensive Warding
Arms and Armaments: Ice, a Valyrian Greatsword; 3 Daggers; One set of Leather Armor non-descript); a bracer of the same strange metal engraved with strange red and gold flowing creatures that spiraled along the length
Vassals:
Sex: Male
Age: 18
Favored Status: Old Gods
Attributes
Mental
Intelligence- 10
Wisdom- 9.1
Will- 7.7
Physical
Appearance- 7.5
Strength- 5.1
Dexterity- 5.1
Vitality- 7.1
Social
Reputation- 4.8
Personal Guard- 10
Charm- 5.4
Presence- 8.3
Skills
Knowledge
Lore:
Cyvasse 10; Economics/Business/Trade 6; Herblore 6; History 9.1; Medicine 10; Medicine (Disease) 2; Religion 8; Warcraft 4
Languages:High Valyrian 10
Practical:Flame and Void 4.5; Hunting 2; Ravenry 6; Riding 5; Seamanship: 5
Art:Wood Carving 6
Occult:General 4.5
Demons 4.5
Wards 3
Mind 3
Demons 4.5
Wards 3
Mind 3
Attack (1): Aura 1; Control 1; Destruction 7; Illusion 1; Possession 2; Reading 1
Defense (1): Barrier 2; Detect 2; Fortify 3; Mirage 1; Reflect 2; Trap 2
Augment (2): Accelerate 2; Endurance 1; Focus 1.1; Multi-tasking 1; Regeneration 3; Senses 1
Current Array:
Time 1Defense (1): Barrier 2; Detect 2; Fortify 3; Mirage 1; Reflect 2; Trap 2
Augment (2): Accelerate 2; Endurance 1; Focus 1.1; Multi-tasking 1; Regeneration 3; Senses 1
Current Array:
Active:
Senses level 1
Fortify level 2
Trap level 2
Passive:
Multi-tasking level 1
Accelerate level 1
Focus Level 1
Barrier Level 2
Senses level 1
Fortify level 2
Trap level 2
Passive:
Multi-tasking level 1
Accelerate level 1
Focus Level 1
Barrier Level 2
Short Term Precog 1
Naming 1.5Fire 1
Ithroen 0.5
Ithroen 0.5
Combat:
Armor Proficiency: Shardplate, Leather
Technique: Archery 1; Axe 2, Dagger 2; Greatsword 3.75; Shardblade 4.35; Spear 1; Sword/Board 2.5
Awareness: Strategic 8; Tactical 7
Social:
Perception: 8
Manipulation: 4.5
Leadership: 5.5
Harlon Stark's Personal Inventory
Funds: 100,000 Gold Dragons
Attire:
Transportation: 1 wagon and 2 horses
Rare Books: Illyrio's cyphered book; Defensive Warding
Arms and Armaments: Ice, a Valyrian Greatsword; 3 Daggers; One set of Leather Armor non-descript); a bracer of the same strange metal engraved with strange red and gold flowing creatures that spiraled along the length
Vassals:
Jon Snow- Full Shardbearer, First Sword
Ithroen- Forsaken, Possessing Lord Leyton Hightower
Forces:Ithroen- Forsaken, Possessing Lord Leyton Hightower
7 Stark Guardsmen
30 Hightower Guardsmen
Miscellaneous: Cuendillar Ring Ter'angreal; Cuendillar Amulet (Circular disk half white and half black); Cuendillar chain; an ivory pendant, a ruby encrusted necklace; several documents written in Illyrio's hand; a rib bone from Illyrio Mopatis; Three petrified Dragon eggs30 Hightower Guardsmen
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SuperSonicSound
Shadowmancer of the Shadow Cabal
Well, if we need a mistress... She's not an appropriate waifu candidate though.
Whatever happens she needs to stay in her cell, and away from Harlon and Jon. There's something seriously dubious about quite how attracted to her he is that I don't like.
The thing about the 'gallant Knights of the West' sets off all sorts of alarm bells, given how clear manipulation it is.
If there any of the soldiers with us that we suspect don't like women, we should set them on guard.
Whatever happens she needs to stay in her cell, and away from Harlon and Jon. There's something seriously dubious about quite how attracted to her he is that I don't like.
The thing about the 'gallant Knights of the West' sets off all sorts of alarm bells, given how clear manipulation it is.
If there any of the soldiers with us that we suspect don't like women, we should set them on guard.
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A subtle Patrick Rothfuss omage?
...
Harlon X Erina OTP!
There must be limits to paranoia, Alratan. Yes, she's clearly trying to manipulate us and Harlon's hormones are acting up because she's apparently seriously hot. No, there is nothing unnatural about either fact, and we should look for ways to get her on our side instead of panicking.
Harlon X Erina OTP!
*sigh*
There must be limits to paranoia, Alratan. Yes, she's clearly trying to manipulate us and Harlon's hormones are acting up because she's apparently seriously hot. No, there is nothing unnatural about either fact, and we should look for ways to get her on our side instead of panicking.
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Oh, and the fact that Drogo might be able to spot a Forsaken in their host means that not checking on Drogo immediately could have been a critical error.
I recoil at the inefficiency. As I said, mistress material at best. She's probably too damaged even for that. We'd best keep her away from Jon though. Might be interesting to set her on Robb to break any hold Dacey Mormont has on him though.
I'm also curious about why she can speak Westerosi.
...
Harlon X Erina OTP!
I recoil at the inefficiency. As I said, mistress material at best. She's probably too damaged even for that. We'd best keep her away from Jon though. Might be interesting to set her on Robb to break any hold Dacey Mormont has on him though.
I'm also curious about why she can speak Westerosi.
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It's a joke. She's got the looks, but that's hardly enough.
My apologies. I stand by my comment that she's perfect for Robb though.
Or if we had Ithroen checking him he would have noticed. This certainly does complicate things.
1. Harlon isn't that great with women. Not a virgin due to brothers getting him drunk, but not really that experienced with them either. You have to remember that Harlon is basically a nerd.
2. She was raised and sold to be a sex slave, basically. Meaning she's likely very attractive.
It's a problem even for Robb. She's not a noble, and he'd be expected to marry a noble. Feudal political bullshit, and all that.
- Location
- Tel'aran'rhiod
Or it could have saved our bacon since he never saw Itheron and set off his suspicions
[X] She seems like a victim, but still she needs to stay in her cell
-[X] She still perceives Tavar as a goddess. That could bring trouble. Assign two good men to guard her. They should be physically strong but not intimidating. As a pleasure slave, she must have a certain distrust of big men. The guards should also be men who won't lose their heads because they see a pretty woman. Tell the guards that she has some...esoteric skills and that she could be dangerous if she wants to be. Tell them to keep an eye out for unusual things, like if one of them acts strangely. In such a case, it would be likely that this is Erina's doing. If something like that happens, they should not shy away from knocking her out. Though do try not to harm her.
[X] Write-in: Take counsel with Jon. Run all the plans that you've come up with by him. From all that he's heard about Dany, how does he think we should approach her? We'll have to deal with her soon - and with Viserys too. Kal Drogo seems too dangerous now - especially, because we don't know what exactly being a Champion of some heathen gods implies. Until we know more, we should not act, if at all possible. Also talk about how to deal with Robb. He will want answers soon and Jon, who is much more warrior than we are, knows Robb better in some ways. What does Jon think? He is our brother and our most trusted man. He gives us good advice and keeps us from going too far. We understand that now and appreciate it.
[X] No name
So, preliminary plan. Strategy meeting with Jon. He might give us some good ideas or approaches we didn't think of.
-[X] She still perceives Tavar as a goddess. That could bring trouble. Assign two good men to guard her. They should be physically strong but not intimidating. As a pleasure slave, she must have a certain distrust of big men. The guards should also be men who won't lose their heads because they see a pretty woman. Tell the guards that she has some...esoteric skills and that she could be dangerous if she wants to be. Tell them to keep an eye out for unusual things, like if one of them acts strangely. In such a case, it would be likely that this is Erina's doing. If something like that happens, they should not shy away from knocking her out. Though do try not to harm her.
[X] Write-in: Take counsel with Jon. Run all the plans that you've come up with by him. From all that he's heard about Dany, how does he think we should approach her? We'll have to deal with her soon - and with Viserys too. Kal Drogo seems too dangerous now - especially, because we don't know what exactly being a Champion of some heathen gods implies. Until we know more, we should not act, if at all possible. Also talk about how to deal with Robb. He will want answers soon and Jon, who is much more warrior than we are, knows Robb better in some ways. What does Jon think? He is our brother and our most trusted man. He gives us good advice and keeps us from going too far. We understand that now and appreciate it.
[X] No name
So, preliminary plan. Strategy meeting with Jon. He might give us some good ideas or approaches we didn't think of.
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SuperSonicSound
Shadowmancer of the Shadow Cabal
Could you explain how we would run an example through this? Is every bit of time magic an entirely new branch of time magic? So would observing your own future be a different skill to observing the future of say Ned stark?
Any way I've updated the spread sheet with the time magic information presented thus far and i've colour coded the two sections to make comprehension quicker.
If any one wants to let me know if they have difficulty with the current colours due to colour blindness let me know and I'll try and find a better colour combo.
Van Ropen
Angry, angry about elves.
Exactly. "20 million dragons" has the personality, and we shouldn't forget that "Essos" is a looker too - remember dem coastlines.
More seriously, trusting her with us is probably foolish. Let's just lock her in the room with the book and a reminder not to try anything.
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Romv
A Memory of TREES
All the Naming magic in the quest is.
She seems honest, and someone who can use wind could be a big help. Both as a mage and a tutor for Harlon.
That is, if she can be trusted. Then again, so far she has done nothing to deserve distrust. If we are willing to extend support for Dany, I see no reason why she would not deserve it too.
EDIT: Though we probably can't trust around Tavar. She might have somekind of stockholm syndrome or somesuch. Maybe Ithroen can tell her something about Tavars true nature later.
Anyway, we should find out what happened to Ithroen fast. Tavar was concerned Drogo might see something off about her, and that might mean Drogo might detect Ithroen inside Leyton. We have to get him out fast, if he is still alive.
So the last artifact is an angreal. Unfortunately, its presumably a saidar angreal. Ohwell, maybe one of Harlons siblings could use it or something.
That is, if she can be trusted. Then again, so far she has done nothing to deserve distrust. If we are willing to extend support for Dany, I see no reason why she would not deserve it too.
EDIT: Though we probably can't trust around Tavar. She might have somekind of stockholm syndrome or somesuch. Maybe Ithroen can tell her something about Tavars true nature later.
Anyway, we should find out what happened to Ithroen fast. Tavar was concerned Drogo might see something off about her, and that might mean Drogo might detect Ithroen inside Leyton. We have to get him out fast, if he is still alive.
So the last artifact is an angreal. Unfortunately, its presumably a saidar angreal. Ohwell, maybe one of Harlons siblings could use it or something.
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We shouldn't name the shardblade. It will just complicate giving it to Ithroen.
I'm much more concerned about how this essentially means that Drogo might have executed him with a shardblade rather than taking him captive.
Harlon is one of the most important people in the world. He should have had beautiful women throwing themselves at him since he hit puberty. This level of distraction is suspicious when it's caused by someone we know is magically talented.
I don't expect him to marry her. I expect him to seduce her and distract her from any gold digging attempts on Harlon given his greater experience and sleaziness, and be much more willing and able to dump her cleanly when the time comes.
Or he captured Hightower from the boat and stuck a shardblade in his heart because he knew what he was.
I'm much more concerned about how this essentially means that Drogo might have executed him with a shardblade rather than taking him captive.
Harlon is one of the most important people in the world. He should have had beautiful women throwing themselves at him since he hit puberty. This level of distraction is suspicious when it's caused by someone we know is magically talented.
I don't expect him to marry her. I expect him to seduce her and distract her from any gold digging attempts on Harlon given his greater experience and sleaziness, and be much more willing and able to dump her cleanly when the time comes.
Or he captured Hightower from the boat and stuck a shardblade in his heart because he knew what he was.
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- Location
- Tel'aran'rhiod
Let's not give her a lyre, it might help with Song which probably is used for enchanting people
Dunno if this is really accurate?
@Mazrick, willing to shed light on Harlons experience with women?
Also, Harlon is magically talented too, was using all the mental defenses, AND wearing a very powerfull mind-protective ter'angreal. Theres valid suspicion, and then there is sheer paranoia.
Btw, we should probably only name the swords after we find out whether or not we are going to keep it. It might go to Ithroen if he still alive.
Though when we do, I wonder if we should go with a more magic or scholarly motif? We are going to have Midnight as a huge direwolf, so we don't really need to name a sword anything wolf-related. And our first sword was already named "Justice", so things like "Judgement" seem more like copying that.
How about something like "Wisdom" or "Knowledge" or "Prudence" or something like that?
Though when we do, I wonder if we should go with a more magic or scholarly motif? We are going to have Midnight as a huge direwolf, so we don't really need to name a sword anything wolf-related. And our first sword was already named "Justice", so things like "Judgement" seem more like copying that.
How about something like "Wisdom" or "Knowledge" or "Prudence" or something like that?
That's what Defensive Sequences and F&V are for. We can monitor her behavior to see whether she has sinister motives.
Please, let's not devolve into mindless fear. Yes, she could be dangerous, just like any other mage. But that doesn't mean we shouldn't try to accommodate her and get her to like our company. We obviously shouldn't trust her with Tavar's amulet or it's location due to the already mentioned Stockholm Syndrome and her belief that Tavar is a goddess (which we can hopefully debunk in time), but she's a slave. And it's our sworn duty to free all slaves.
"Justice #2"
Dunno if this is really accurate?
@Mazrick, willing to shed light on Harlons experience with women?
Also, Harlon is magically talented too, was using all the mental defenses, AND wearing a very powerfull mind-protective ter'angreal. Theres valid suspicion, and then there is sheer paranoia.
Even if she isn't using magic, and, to be fair, she probably isn't, she's still good enough at seduction to seriously distract Harlon while she's recovering from serious illness and in very unfavourable conditions. It doesn't really matter whether Harlon's little head gets a casting vote on how to treat her or whether she's mastered the Name of Desire and is supernaturally seductive. Either way his judgement seems compromised around her.
We don't know if they help defend against Naming.
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Possibly, but given the fire has been hinted at by the GM to be due to us not stealing shinies from Ithroen, I'm hoping he escaped.
Harlon lives in Winterfell, which is hardly a gathering place for beautiful young noblewomen. It would be another matter if Harlon was born in Highgarden, but he wasn't.
Robb is in love with Dacey Mormont, most likely, and he's not Theon for crying out loud - he's impulsive, but not really the type to get a woman in love with him and dump her at a moment's notice.
I was thinking "Wit", but yeah, I like the general theme there as it fits Harlon.