Chapter 3: Trust in surprise

Summary:

Joining with Eddard Stark the assigned room for the northerner lord in Darry Castle to discuss his protection, Marc has to disclose some information that create an upheaval for Eddard's perspective of the world...

Chapter Text

Eddard, Arya, Jory and I joined the guest rooms that lord Darry assigned to the Starks. While Arya was sent to bed to allow her to rest after her four days in the woods, in spite of her desire to attend the discussion, her father and I joined the room where he was resting, while Jory was tasked to prevent our discussion to be overheard.

As Eddard and I settled within the room, there was a brief moment of silence, allowing us to gather our thoughts before diving into the discussion that lay ahead. It was during this moment that I noticed the weariness in Eddard Stark's eyes, a reminder of the four long days he had spent searching for Arya and then dealing with the trial against her until my intervention. Concerned for his well-being, I couldn't help but ask, "My lord, are you alright? You seem to have been through a great deal."

Eddard took a deep breath before responding, his voice tinged with a hint of exhaustion, "Thank you for your concern, Marc. These past days have been trying, but the safety and well-being of my daughter were of utmost importance. I will endure."

I nodded in understanding, acknowledging his determination and resilience. Eddard, however, seemed to have a deeper reason for bringing me here. While he acknowledged my intervention on behalf of his daughter and understood my desire for protection from the Lannisters, he needed more information. He looked at me with solemn eyes as he spoke up.

"Before we make any decisions about to ensure you protection, I need to know more about you. Your actions in the hall are commendable, and Arya wouldn't have asked you to seek my help if she didn't trust you. But I know nothing of your background or your motivations."

I listened attentively, ready to answer any questions he may have.

"What do you want to know, my lord? I am an open book", I asked.

Eddard's gaze lingered for a moment before he finally spoke, his voice firm and measured.

"Tell me, where do you hail from? What land and people do you call home?"

I took a deep breath, thinking upon my answer. A part of me was earning to tell the truth, but I knew it would shape Eddard's perception of me, no matter how grateful he felt to my intervention. But I knew I couldn't completely avoid his question as it would mean I hid something from him and the idea to hid something from the man put me ill at ease as it gave me the impression to be like Cersei, Varys or Baelish. I couldn't lower myself to their level, not for something that would allow Eddard to know what kind of man I was. The idea to lie to him as would many self-inserts like the one from "The Prophet from Maine" was something foreign to me. Not that I couldn't say half-truth or say white lies or little lies, but I wasn't pretentious to believe I could play something I couldn't grasp enough because of the limits of my knowledge, not to mention as good as playing I might be, doing such tricks to lord Stark was something I didn't want, especially not for Arya's sake. I finally decide to reveal a bit without going in details and saw how Eddard would consider my answer.

"I came from a place far away, beyond any known lands. I arrived there two or three weeks ago like a shipwreck survivor with no clues where I was. I was lucky to encounter peasants that informed me I was near Darry Castle, even if my appearance puzzled them and they even consider me as a merchant or a lord. I didn't dismiss the first but dismiss the second. They accepted to host me for some days and I helped them. They gave me some clothes to allow me to fit more in the Riverlands. When they heard the king was coming again to Darry Castle, I decided to join the place. As I was a helping hand that didn't ask for reward, one of the servant allowed me to join the castle as I offered my help to relieve them in the handling of the royal household. And this evening, I found myself among the crowd that witnessed this kangaroo trial against your daughter. And you know the rest."

Eddard's brow furrowed as he considered my explanation, his demeanor shifting from skepticism to a cautious contemplation. "Your words seem plausible, especially with the lack of respect in the decorum when you spoke of the prince. However, I cannot simply dismiss the possibility that there is more to your story than meets the eye. Your arrival and knowledge raise questions that demand answers."

I looked at him with curiosity and apprehension, "My knowledge?"

The northerner lord looked straight at me with serious and vigilant eyes.

"You claimed to be a foreigner with no ties with the Seven Kingdoms. And yet, you seemed to possess knowledge and information that should be beyond your reach if it was the case. You knew Ser Barristan Selmy could be trusted, you recognized Jory Cassel, and you even knew the name of the boy who accompanied Arya on the Ruby Ford, as well as her direwolf."

A part of me inwardly applauded Lord Stark for his attention, but another dreaded, wondering if Cersei or another among the people seeing the "trial" noticed the same thing. Unaware of my thoughts, lord Stark asked me with seriousness and curiosity, "How is it that you have this knowledge?"

I tensed a bit, aware of the delicate situation I was in, especially as I sensed a glimpse of threat in the lord's voice. I hesitated a bit to his question, a part of me once again tempted to dodge his question or to give him an easy answer that would use the truth in a shroud of lies. But I didn't want that, no matter how dangerous and foolishness my choice would be. I couldn't play games as we were not in Winterfell and even if it was the case, I wouldn't want that. I decided to face my responsibilities while preparing myself to prove my words to the northerner lord. I took a deep breath, knowing that my revelation could potentially shatter his perception of reality.

"Lord Stark, please bear with me as what I am about to tell you might be difficult to comprehend. But I swear on my honor, my life, and before the gods that what I am about to tell is the truth, only but the truth. The reason why I didn't tell exactly where I come is because it is a place that doesn't exist here. It is a place beyond the reality of your world which is called Earth. I do not know how or why I found myself in Westeros.

And concerning my knowledge, it came from stories of my world that depict Westeros and Essos, notably current events and potential ones that may unfold in the next three to five years.

I watched Eddard's expression shift, a mixture of curiosity, intrigue, doubt, and disbelief crossing his face. It was clear that he struggled to accept my claims about coming from another world and possessing knowledge of events yet to occur. Something I couldn't blame him for, as it would be as ludicrous if not even more so than what the deserter, Gared or Will, told him about the White Walkers before he executed him. He was also conflicted, wondering what my game or intent was, especially as I had helped his daughter beforehand or the fact I swore my words to be the truth on my honor and life. He seemed torn between dismissing my claims as the delusions of a troubled mind or delving deeper to uncover the truth behind my words, as he couldn't imagine a madman helping his daughter. His voice held a cautious edge as he questioned my motives and intentions and to consider if I was sincere or deceitful and mad.

"You expect me to believe that you come from some unknown land that doesn't exist here or to possess knowledge of events yet to occur?" he questioned, his voice laced with uncertainty and caution. "How can I trust such claims? What do you hope to gain from all this? Your words bear weight, but it is difficult for me to reconcile them with the reality I know."

Lord Stark's skepticism was evident, his sense of duty and responsibility conflicting with the fantastical nature of my revelations. I could see his mind racing, considering the implications and potential consequences of believing me. It was clear that he was considering the implications of my revelation, not only for himself but for his family and the realm, should they were revealed true. I understood his skepticism, and I knew that it would take more than mere words to earn his trust. I resisted to gulp or to fidget under his blank and grave expression, knowing that I will need all my skills in words, in knowledge and in handling people to prove what were currently considered as mad claims. I raised my hands in an appeasing manner, urging Eddard to hear me out.

"Please, my lord," I implored, my voice steady yet earnest. "Hear me out. While my words alone may not be enough to convince you, I assure you that I have ways to prove these fantastic and unbelievable claims. And if what I have said doesn't sway your judgment, then I am prepared to take my leave and seek refuge in the Night's Watch, both to ensure my own safety against the wrath of the queen and the prince and to make amends for any potential misleading I may have done to you and your family."

Eddard's mind churned with conflicting thoughts as he considered my plea. While he recognized the sincerity and weight behind my offer to prove my claims or seek refuge in the Night's Watch, he couldn't justify sending someone who had defended his daughter to the Wall without clear evidence of wrongdoing. His sense of justice, coupled with his paternal instincts, compelled him to protect me from such a fate.

After a moment of silence, he finally spoke, his voice reflecting a mixture of caution and determination. "Very well, Marc. I appreciate your willingness to prove the truth of your claims, but I cannot allow you to take the black if you failed to do so. I respect your willingness to face your responsibilities, but you have committed no crimes, and my daughter would not accept that I send the man who defended her to the Wall, especially as she convinced you to ask for my help. And you seem to be like a green boy who had never handled the colds of winter. You wouldn't survive there."

He paused briefly, his gaze fixed on me. "Instead, I urge you to demonstrate the substantiation of your extraordinary knowledge. Show me the evidence you claim to possess. If what you say holds true, it will not only alleviate any doubts I may have but also provide an opportunity for us to understand the nature of your situation and potentially find a way to ensure your safety."

I nodded, understanding his perspective and appreciating his protective nature. With a momentary pause to gather my thoughts, I prepared to demonstrate the extent of my knowledge. I reached beneath the smallfolk clothes I had been wearing, removing them to reveal my 21st-century attire underneath. The sight of the unfamiliar garments elicited a mix of surprise and curiosity from Eddard.

"Do you think an Essossi or any person from the known world would bear such clothes?" I remarked, sensing his curiosity. "I was wearing them back in my world when I..." I hesitated for a moment, realizing the implications of what I was about to say. "... When I was rewatching the first season of Game of Thrones."

Eddard's brow furrowed, his eyes narrowing as he took in the revelation. The significance of my attire and the mention of Game of Thrones sparked a flicker of recognition within him, even though he wondered what I mean by rewatching the Game of Thrones. The pieces of the puzzle started to align, and he began to comprehend the fantastical nature of my claims.

"You speak of another world, and these clothes... they do not belong to Westeros," he stated, his voice tinged with a mixture of astonishment and intrigue.

I nodded, confirming his observation. "That is correct, my lord. I come from a world different from your own, a place called Earth. It is a world that exists beyond the boundaries of Westeros and Essos, a world where stories on your world like Game of Thrones are known and watched."

Eddard's mind raced, grappling with the enormity of the situation. The realization that I might truly come from another realm, that my knowledge extended beyond the known lands, started to take hold. The skepticism that once clouded his thoughts gave way to a more open-minded consideration of my claims.

Eddard's mind grappled with the implications of my revelation and the proofs I had presented. While the sight of my unfamiliar attire and the mention of Game of Thrones sparked a flicker of intrigue, he remained cautious and reserved in his response.

"Marc, your claims and the proofs you've presented are indeed extraordinary," Eddard began, his voice measured and thoughtful. "The revelation of your attire from a different land and the mention of this...Game of Thrones...certainly provide some intriguing evidence. However, you must be aware that it may not be enough as your extraordinary claims require extraordinary proof."

I nodded in understanding, "I know. That's why I will give you three others clues. One tied to me and my world and the two others to my knowledge."

Eddard's eyes grew more curious and intrigued on me, wondering how I'd manage to prove my claims.

I take a breath before saying, "Quand arrive la neige et que surviennent les vents de l'hiver, le loup solitaire meurt, mais la meute survit."

Eddard's brow furrowed in confusion, clearly taken aback by the foreign words. "What is this? I have never heard such a language before," he admitted, his curiosity piqued.

I smiled gently, aiming to provide clarification and intrigue. "It is French, my mother tongue. And what I just said is the translation of a phrase you would say to your children: 'When snow falls and the winds of winter come, the lone wolf dies, but the pack survives.'"

Eddard's eyes widened with surprise and recognition. The familiarity of the phrase resonated with him, triggering memories and associations. It was a phrase he himself had spoken to his children, a deeply meaningful sentiment within his family. He felt a start of acknowledging my claims, even though he was still struggling a bit because of his pratical mind and caution.

"Anything else?" he asked with caution and intrigue.

Thinking a bit on how to prove my knowledge and truly earning his trust, I then decided to reveal something that only someone with intimate knowledge of Eddard's past could possibly know, even if I was a bit wary as I kind of felt like a stalker or a voyeur once I revealed these two facts.

"Let me tell you two things, my lord, that you have experienced and that I couldn't have known in detail unless it was true."

Eddard leaned forward, his gaze unwavering, a mix of curiosity and cautious anticipation filling his eyes. He silently urged me to continue.

I took a breath before beginning, confident in my revelations and yet aware of the potential impact they would have on the northerner lord.

"Several weeks ago, before you learned of the death of the previous Hand, Lord Jon Arryn, and the arrival of your friend the king, you executed a deserter from the Night's Watch who told you he had seen the White Walkers. The execution was witnessed by your sons Robb, Bran, Jon Snow, but also Theon Greyjoy, Jory and Rodrik Cassel. It was Bran's first execution. After the execution, you spoke with Bran, explaining why you had to carry out the sentence yourself with the fact that the man who passes the judgment must use the sword. Later, you stumbled upon the corpse of a female direwolf killed by a stag's antler and discovered her cubs. Theon was about to kill them, but Jon convinced you to spare them, saying that the direwolves represented your House, with one for each of your children. You relented and accepted, and as you were leaving, Jon found the runt of the litter. The direwolves were named Grey Wind, Ghost, Lady, Nymeria, and Shaggydog, while Bran's direwolf remains unnamed."

As I spoke, Eddard's face underwent a remarkable transformation. Shock, disbelief, and a surge of raw emotion swept across his features. It was evident that he had not expected me to recount a recent event in such vivid detail, especially considering I hadn't been present, and the fact that I knew the names of many of his children and their direwolves. However, I pressed on, revealing one more piece of information that would leave no doubt about the authenticity of my knowledge, even though I tried to be careful in how I phrased it, unsure of the fact our discussion would completely go unnoticed.

"I also know the final words your late sister, Lyanna Stark, whispered to you in the Tower of Joy. 'Promise me, Ned.' You promised her to watch over her newborn son. A son who is now riding to Castle Black on the Wall to join the Night's Watch."

Eddard's face went ashen, his eyes widening with a mixture of astonishment, profound sadness and deep fear. The weight of my words, revealing such a closely guarded secret, bore down on him. His mind raced, grappling with the implications of my knowledge and the breach of trust it suggested.

For a fleeting moment, Eddard's gaze drifted away, lost in the depths of his memories. His thoughts were filled with Lyanna's face, the promise he had made to her, and the countless years he had spent protecting Jon, knowing the truth but veiling it from the world. The conflicting emotions of love, duty, and the burden of this secret swirled within him, threatening to consume him. For a short moment, I almost thought that he would unleash on me to protect this secret, but I chased away this thought because while Eddard could strongly react when it concerned his family, he was not like Robert Baratheon. But I awaited his reaction, aware that my answers completely affected the northerner lord on how he might perceive the world and on a personal level.

Eddard's voice quivered, betraying the turmoil within. "How... How could you know this? How could you possess such intimate knowledge that only a handful of people hold? Are you toying with me? Is this some cruel jest?"

I looked at Eddard with sympathy, fully comprehending the weight of the information I had just revealed to Eddard. His cautious and wary demeanor was to be expected, considering the unbelievable nature of my claims. I felt a pang of guilt for causing such turmoil. Taking a moment to collect my thoughts, I nodded earnestly and responded to his questions.

"I apologize for putting you in such state, Lord Stark. I can understand your disbelief. If the situation were reversed, I would likely react in the same way. But please know that if I were an imposter or someone trying to abuse your trust, I would have chosen a more believable story. I would have claimed to possess greensight or of being a red priest like Thoros of Myr. However, that wouldn't have been me and since you have noticed the details that came from my knowledge, I'd rather be sincere and honest with you, especially for the sake of your daughter and for the sake of the request I've made to ask your protection."

Eddard's expression shifted, displaying a mix of confusion and curiosity as he contemplated my words. It was evident that he was attempting to reconcile the information I presented with his own understanding of the world. He also seemed to grasp the meaning of my words and the intent behind them. Sensing his curiosity and his desire to understand my motives, I continued speaking in calm and measured tone while feeling a strong apprehension.

"To be honest, Lord Stark, I didn't expect to reveal this truth to you or anyone. The knowledge I possess is both restricted and fragmented. It is limited to the perspectives of key individuals in your world, such as Tyrion Lannister, Daenerys Targaryen, and yourself. Furthermore, it is important for you not to take my word for face value, as it could influence your decisions and the actions of those around you. I am aware of the dangers of attracting attention and the risks involved in altering the course of events."

Eddard listened intently, his eyes fixed on me as I spoke. He seemed to absorb my words, contemplating their implications and the potential consequences they carried. After a brief silence, he finally responded, his voice cautious yet tinged with curiosity.

"Then, why did you choose to reveal this information to me? And why should I trust you?"

I answered him in an assertive yet impassioned voice, expressing my motivations and reasoning. "There are three reasons, Lord Stark. First, as I said, you noticed the details and I couldn't dismiss your findings without destroying any good will I might have created with you. Second, when I witnessed the confrontation between Arya and the prince before the king, it played out exactly as I had read and watched in the stories. I couldn't stand idly by and let injustice occur when I had the ability to make a difference, no matter how small it will be. I relied on my analytical mind and understanding of how Joffrey and your daughter presented their sides of the story to intervene. And I did so knowing the risks involved, aware that I had more to lose than to gain."

Eddard's expression softened slightly, his brows furrowing as he pondered my words. It was evident that my acknowledgment of his astute observations had caught his attention, stirring a glimmer of curiosity within him. His guarded demeanor began to crack, replaced by a growing willingness to consider the possibility of my claims being genuine. My second reason fortified his demeanor as he was processing the implications of my intervention, understanding the potential impact it could have had on the events that followed.

I continued, addressing his second question. "As for why you should trust me, Lord Stark, I want to assure you that I am not an imposter or a schemer. I am someone who values sincerity and strives to do the right thing. While I possess this peculiar knowledge, it is not the sole skill I have and I do not neglect my skills or the responsibilities that come with them. I am not here to take advantage of the situation, but rather to offer assistance where I can. I am deeply invested in the well-being of your family as they hold a special place in the stories I know. I want to help you through my strengths—my heart, my values, and my analytical mind. Revealing this truth to you is part of my commitment to honesty and transparency, despite the risks it entails."

Pausing for a moment, I concluded, "However, I understand if you find it difficult to trust me after such revelations. I apologize for putting you in this position, but I wanted to be open and show you the extent of my skills, despite the peculiarity of my situation."

Eddard's reaction was a mix of contemplation and emotion. He took a moment to let my words sink in, carefully considering them. It was clear that he was grappling with a multitude of thoughts and feelings.

Finally, he responded with a measured tone, "These are extraordinary claims, and I must admit that it is difficult for me to fully comprehend and accept them. However, I am not one to dismiss possibilities outright, especially when presented with such detailed knowledge. I appreciate your honesty and willingness to explain your motives. For now, I will reserve judgment and continue to observe. But know this, if I find any reason to doubt your intentions or the authenticity of your information, I will not hesitate to act."

"I understand, Lord Stark. Your vigilance is commendable, and I respect your decision. I only ask that you keep an open mind and consider the information I've shared as we navigate the challenges that lie ahead. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to voice them. I am here to assist in any way I can, as long as it aligns with the values and goals you hold dear."

The weight of the conversation hung heavily in the air, as silence enveloped the room. Eddard Stark's gaze remained fixed upon me, his eyes searching for answers amidst the tumult of thoughts swirling within him. I could sense the weight of his exhaustion, the weariness etched upon his face after days of searching for his missing daughter. My own mind raced, trying to comprehend the enormity of the situation and the risks involved in revealing such knowledge.

Minutes stretched into eternity as the silence persisted, punctuated only by the distant crackle of the hearth's dying embers. Each passing moment allowed the gravity of the revelations to sink deeper, binding our fates together in a tapestry of uncertainty and intrigue. The room seemed to hold its breath, as if waiting for the next words to break the stillness.

I watched Eddard's face closely, observing the play of emotions that flickered across his features. His brow furrowed with deep contemplation, lines etched on his forehead betraying the weight of responsibility he carried as Lord of Winterfell. I could see the conflict within him, torn between skepticism and the undeniable evidence that had been presented.

As the silence stretched on, I respected the need for reflection. It was a crucial moment, one that demanded patience and understanding. We both needed time to process the implications of my claims, to reconcile the extraordinary with the familiar, and to determine the best course of action.

The minutes turned into an hour, the silence unbroken save for the faint sounds of distant footsteps echoing through the corridors of Darry Castle. I resisted the urge to break the stillness, recognizing the importance of allowing Eddard the space he needed. The weight of the world bore down upon him, and I understood the magnitude of the decision he was about to make.

Finally, as the silence began to give way to a subtle shift in energy, Eddard's eyes met mine once more. In his gaze, I detected a glimmer of determination, a resolve taking root amidst the lingering doubt. The silence had served its purpose, allowing the seeds of trust and understanding to germinate in the fertile soil of contemplation.

Breaking the silence, Eddard spoke with a measured yet resolute tone, his voice carrying the weight of responsibility. "Your words and actions have shown a depth of knowledge and insight that I cannot ignore. Though I still struggle to comprehend the full extent of your claims, I cannot dismiss the evidence before me. I will consider your request for protection, and I shall take steps to ensure your safety."

A sigh of relief escaped my lips, knowing that the first hurdle had been cleared. The silence had played its part, allowing Eddard to process the revelations and arrive at a decision that would shape the path ahead. Though uncertainty still lingered, a glimmer of hope emerged amidst the shadows, born from the understanding that our destinies were now intertwined.

As the silence dissipated, the room seemed to come alive once more, infused with a renewed sense of purpose. The discussion would continue, with plans being laid and alliances formed, as we navigated the treacherous waters of Westeros together. The ensuing silence had served as a crucible, forging a bond that would be tested in the fires of truth and consequence.

I take a breath before saying, "What is your decision concerning my situation, now that you know a bit more about me, my peculiar knowledge and my motives?"

Eddard took a moment to consider my question, his expression reflecting the weight of the decision before him. It was evident that he was carefully weighing the implications of my situation and the options available. After a brief silence, he finally spoke.

"Your situation is a delicate one, and the knowledge you possess is both intriguing and unsettling. While I am cautious about accepting everything you claim, I cannot ignore the detailed insights you have shared. Your motives seem genuine, especially as you have helped my daughter without asking for a reward, and I appreciate your transparency. Considering the potential dangers you face from the Lannisters, I believe Winterfell could provide you with the safety you seek."

I nodded in understanding as Eddard mentioned Winterfell. It was the logical choice, considering its remote location and the protection it offered from the Lannisters. A part of me shivered as I dislike extreme climates either too cold or too hot, but I couldn't reject such proposition for comfort.

"That's what I thought as well, Lord Stark," I responded, my voice grateful. "Winterfell's distance from King's Landing and its formidable defenses make it an ideal haven. Your protection and that of your household would provide me with a sanctuary, shielding me from the retribution of the Lannisters. I am grateful for your willingness to consider this option."

Eddard listened attentively, his gaze fixed upon me. I could see that he was interested in hearing my reasoning for the alternatives. Taking a breath, I continued, even though my cautious-self was immediately screaming against the idea I was about to present, considering it as more suicidal as my intervention this evening..

"However, I would like to share another perspective that crossed my mind. It revolves around the events in King's Landing and the challenges you will face there. As the stories unfold, the decisions you make and the situation in the capital hold significant weight and have far-reaching consequences. My knowledge of these events could be of great help to you, allowing you to navigate the complexities of the Red Keep more effectively and avoid some of the mistakes your future self made."

Eddard's brow furrowed slightly, indicating his consideration of this proposition. I pressed on, explaining further.

"In addition, my presence in King's Landing would allow me to serve as a companion to your household, sharing stories and songs from my homeland. I could provide solace and entertainment during these trying times. However, I am aware that being in such close proximity to Cersei and Joffrey would increase the risk to my safety, given their vengeful nature. Their resentment toward me for intervening this evening would undoubtedly remain."

Pausing for a moment, I concluded, "Ultimately, the choice is yours, Lord Stark. Whether it is Winterfell or accompanying you to King's Landing, I will respect and abide by your decision. My primary concern is finding safety and assisting you and your family in any way I can."

Eddard's gaze lingered on me as he absorbed my words, his mind seemingly working through the possibilities. The weight of the decision was not lost on him, especially considering the limited time available to make a choice. I awaited his response, ready to accept whatever path he deemed best for my safety and the greater good, even though a tiny part was hoping to be able to help him and to give him a chance of survival. After a moment of contemplation, he spoke, his voice carrying a mix of concern and determination.

"With what you presented, I can imagine the value of your knowledge and the potential assistance you could provide in navigating the challenges that lie ahead in King's Landing. Your offer to be a companion and a source of solace for my family is also appreciated. However, I cannot ignore the risks involved in bringing you to the heart of the capital, where the Lannisters hold significant power and where your safety would be compromised."

He paused briefly, his gaze meeting mine before continuing, "Moreover, you asked for my protection and your safety is of utmost importance. Winterfell offers the best chance for protection from the Lannisters. Your presence there, while it may require some adjustments to ensure your safety, would not only shield you but also provide an opportunity for you to share your knowledge with my son Robb, who may greatly benefit from your insights."

I nodded, acknowledging the validity of his concerns and the importance of my safety. Eddard's decision aligned with my initial expectations, yet I couldn't help but feel a tinge of disappointment and of disarray. Nonetheless, I remained committed to respecting his judgment and accepting the path he deemed best.

"I understand your reasoning, Lord Stark," I replied, my voice tinged with a hint of resignation. "You prioritize my safety, and Winterfell truly seems like the most secure option. I will abide by your decision and make the necessary adjustments to ensure a smooth integration within your household."

Eddard's expression softened as he regarded me, his voice carrying a touch of gratitude, "I appreciate your understanding and willingness to accept this choice. Your safety and the well-being of my family are of paramount importance. We will take all necessary measures to protect you once you arrive at Winterfell."

Before finalizing the decision, Eddard posed one final question, his voice filled with curiosity, "May I ask why you would be ready to sacrifice your own safety and put the needs of others before your own?"

I met his gaze, a mixture of determination and selflessness in my eyes, as I replied, "My safety would have been a priority before the moment I revealed my knowledge to you. However, I have no ties in this place and I am someone with few expectations. I know your role in this realm and the significance of your actions, especially in the weeks to come. While I would prefer to live and thrive, I understand that my death, as regrettable as it would be, would not have the same impact as would yours. The preservation of your life and the well-being of your family carry far-reaching consequences for the realm."

Eddard absorbed my response, his expression a mix of gratitude and a touch of sadness. He recognized the depth of my sacrifice and the weight of my words. After a moment of reflection, he finally spoke, his voice firm and resolute.

"Your selflessness is commendable, and I am grateful for your willingness to put the greater good above your own safety. Nevertheless, I can't in good conscience put your life in danger when you came to ask for protection. We will make the necessary arrangements for your journey to Winterfell, ensuring that you are protected and able to share your knowledge with my son. I trust that your presence will be a valuable asset to our cause."

I nodded, understanding his decision. While a part of me was torn apart as I felt I would allow Lord Stark to face his fate, I was glad he considered my well-being before the gains he would have with my presence. However, I couldn't in good conscience leaving him to Winterfell while he will join King's Landing. I couldn't imagine leaving in complete dark while whatever information and knowledge I could give him might save his life and prevent his daughters' fates.

"I will do my best to help your son, my lord. But please allow me to give as much as I can to help you to prepare yourself for King's Landing and to give to your daughters and you the best chances to face the events to come. In that way, while I'll be in Winterfell in helping your son and those who advised him, you'll some tools that could help you and your daughters." I said with determination and apprehension.

AN.:

1_ The big potential controversy from this chapter in regards of how Eddard might have reacted in such a situation. I tried to make a compromise between his pratical and cautious mind and the fact my MC defended Arya in the hall of Darry Castle and in the same time develop how the MC would try to handle the matter in regards of both who he is and how he would use his knowledge and skills.

2_ I know that many of the lone SI that didn't reincarnate in one of the canonical characters tend to pretend to be prophets, to come from one of the unknown places of Planetos to hide the unbelievable fact of their origins. And initially, my MC didn't intend to tell this unbelievable or to out lie, just to withold informations that would be regarded as unbelievable or madman's tales.

3_ Originally, in the initial draft that was created by ChatGPT, Eddard directly commented on the fact I told names that I wouldn't have known if I was truly without ties without the Seven Kingdoms. But I found it was so abrupt that it needed a soft introduction in the discussion that could allow this comment from the northerner lord and to develop the initial intent of the MC on his origins and knowledge.

4_ While it has been made in the same manner as the two previous chapters, the core of my character's answers and thoughts are mainly what I have thought on the matter if I was in such a situation. Just for thoughts, if it has been the Lannisters, they wouldn't have this luxury because a) they would dismiss such claims or b) they would imprison me or c) they would be tempted to exploit it to further their agendas if they believe it. And since I don't share their values and have a certain opinion of their methods in GOT and ASOIAF (that would be explored in later chapters, no spoilers, except those who have read my comments on other works), I would have said nothing or claimed to have heard hearsays.

5_ The clothes' proof has been added in an additional chat. It wasn't part of the first draft but I thought that in the matters of proving unbelievable claims, 21st century clothes would be a good argument.

6_ I decided to use two clues, one obvious and the other "uncertain" (you can guess which one is "uncertain") as proofs of knowledge of some facts on Westeros that no many people would know. I was tempted to add a third, but I consider it would have been too much in the tale of this chapter.

7_ As I took inspiration of myself for the MC, I increase a bit some of his features (for example, the need to be well understood and though "long" explanations or the very cautious hand on how to handle certain matters).

8_ You may have a guess of how the MC intends to use his knowledge with the advantages and flaws that come along. Something that will be explored first in the next chapter that will be an immediate sequel to this one.

9_ Have (hopefully) a good reading !