bbb - my audio books

The Weight of a Decision

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The Red Keep, King's Landing

Late evening, Summer…

It was three weeks before Joffrey's sixteenth nameday that Tommen Baratheon had his 'accident'.

That was a polite way of saying that Joffrey had 'accidentally' pushed him down a flight of stairs. It had been an accident in that he hadn't actually meant to do anything of the sort, having been in a hurry to do…who knew what considering Tommen had long since gave up trying to make sense of his older brother's mind, but when he'd pushed Tommen aside in his haste and seen him tumble down the stairs, Joffrey only laughed instead of getting any help for the young boy of barely ten namedays old. Quite frankly, Tommen was fortunate to still be alive because on top of the bruises he'd gotten from tumbling down several stairs in the Red Keep, he'd also dashed his head against the stone floor hard enough to rattle his teeth. Not only that, the incident left him with a fairly serious concussion. Of course, the only reason he'd been in a position to be shoved in the first place was due to feeling like someone had poked him in the back of his brain right through his skull, leaving Tommen momentarily distracted just long enough to end up in Joffrey's way.

Luckily for him, Grand Maester Pycelle was quite good at his job of maintaining the royal family's physical health. Unluckily for him, Tommen only felt a flash of intense pain before he slipped into a coma. The next thing he knew, he woke up staring at the familiar ceiling of his room. His head didn't hurt anymore, but he knew something must've happened to him because he was pretty sure people didn't see strange glowing letters appearing in front of their eyes. He could read them just fine, but whatever Maester Pycelle had given him to help with the pain had left Tommen feeling rather dizzy and lightheaded, unaware that he'd been unconscious for the better part of a week and a half, so it took him a fair bit longer to figure out just what he was looking at. Even then, little about what he read made sense.

Welcome to the Chaos Gacha!

The infinite chaos of the endless and infinite multiverse condensed and refined into the form of a Gacha available at your very fingertips! Maybe you will become a shapeshifting fire monarch, or maybe you will be a supreme tinkerer... or a supreme lady killer.

The possibilities are functionally endless! So go ahead and gamble to your heart's content! The endless, ever-changing multiverse awaits, so gamble with the Nuclear Chaos and see what fate has in store for you!

The…Chaos Gacha? Tommen wondered, beyond confused as to what a Gacha was, let alone why it would be chaotic, or how it all worked in the first place. And that was assuming that it wasn't some milk of the poppy induced dream, or a sign of something still being wrong with his mind after his fall. Thankfully that thought prompted the letters to change and shift, becoming a new message that made…a little more sense, if only just.

Due to our…unfortunate timing, resulting in your largely healed injuries by this point, the normal gift of three Gold Random Tickets has been upgraded to Gold Advantageous Tickets. On top of that, you've also been given a Platinum Familiar Ticket to compensate for the damage caused to your person when we first made contact with you, Tommen of the House 'Baratheon', the first of your name. Because a young prince like yourself should never have to fear for their own safety, especially from members of their own family.

…Why is Baratheon being singled out like that? Tommen wondered, again unsure, but he pushed that thought aside in favor of the fact a strange, simple pale blue box had appeared in his lap. Slowly pushing himself up into a sitting position, the heavy fur blankets that fell away from his chest that he'd been covered with staving off the cold were forgotten as he opened the box, the lid easily pulled up and away to reveal the contents inside. The box itself felt strange, not quite wood, yet not metal either, but it was still hard and somewhat stiff when he pushed on one side of the box, unaware it was a material called cardboard. Looking inside the box once he'd finished poking at it, finding it interesting enough to distract from what was inside it until one of the strange slips of shiny parchment almost fluttered away when a gentle breeze blew in from a nearby window.

Scrambling to grab it, Tommen almost fell on his head a second time as he pitched partially over the right side of the bed. He sighed with relief when he caught the strange, shiny slip of parchment though, and got himself back into bed since his mother would be upset if she found him up and about. Once he was settled did Tommen read the new message again, and was reminded of the many times Joffrey had bullied him and at times, Myrcella, the middle child and sister to them both. The Kingsguard intervened when people tried to hurt them, but they weren't 'babysitters' to use Ser Meryn Trant's own words so they never got involved when it was just siblings fighting. To be honest, though, Tommen had never liked Ser Meryn much at all, especially since he had caught the older man staring at Myrcella in a way that made him…uneasy, even if he couldn't have said why.

Looking at the slip of shiny parchment in his right hand once he'd put the lid back on the box lest another stray breeze take any more of them away, Tommen frowned when he saw a line through the middle of the gold-colored ticket that said to 'rip here'. If this really was a dream, it felt like the most real dream he'd ever had, but with nothing better to do but go back to sleep, Tommen decided to go along with it and ripped the ticket along the line. The moment he did, the message changed again, and he was even more confused than he'd already been since he was now being given two choices, if he wasn't misreading what was now in front of him anyway. Tilting his head in a way many would've found adorable, Tommen quietly read the choices aloud, hoping they'd make more sense that way.

It didn't, but it'd been worth a try.

[Talented]

|Rare Trait|

You are a talent in every field of experience. You pick up any skill considerably faster than the average person and improve faster too.

[Sunshine Charm]

|Uncommon Trait|

You exude a vibe of goodness and purity, good-aligned beings like you more. It is easier to convince that you are doing good.

Reading both choices through again, Tommen couldn't help but let his eyes fall on the second one first. He knew he was quiet, timid, and easily upset whenever Joffrey decided to bully him, which was often, but he also knew he was kind and compassionate. If asked and they were brave enough to voice said opinion about a member of the royal family, others would likely say he was too 'soft', but he didn't see a problem with that. Better than his being like Joffrey in his humble opinion, but that led to him glancing at the Sunshine Charm again before he made a face. Tommen liked being kind, but while it might make his life a little better to be seen in such a light without him having to do much of anything at all, he also wanted to be considered a grown-up one day, as all children did, and Sunshine Charm felt like it'd have the opposite effect in the long-term.

Talented on the other hand? Tommen glanced towards a fair amount of books he had tucked away on a nearby shelf, and allowed himself a small smile. They were largely simple books, meant for someone first learning their letters, but they also had quite a lot of interesting history between their pages disguised as stories for someone younger than him. He'd since figured out the difference, but Tommen had liked the little glimpses into the Seven Kingdoms' past he'd gotten along with the reading lessons of course. Being able to learn more quickly would be a blessing, and then some, and perhaps it'd even make him a better king or at least a noble lord if Joffrey remained on the throne for any length of time. A part of him hoped not, but Tommen pushed that dark thought down hard since he was still his older brother. Needing a distraction from the guilt that followed, he hurriedly picked Talented before ripping another of his tickets.

[Reapers Presence]

|Elite Trait|

Upgrade to Terrifying Presence - The reaper is here and they know it. Your presence is that of nightmares, you can make a grown man shit himself without saying a word. If you want to, every gesture of yours seems like a death threat. Acting like the scariest thing they have seen comes naturally to you.

[Brand of Slaanesh]

|Elite Trait|

Warhammer 40k - You wear the brand of Slaanesh, the Lord of Pleasure. Greatly increasing your understanding of others, you can vaguely feel the emotions of others, in addition, your presence is naturally more charismatic and alluring to others. Note: Brands do not connect you to the Chaos Gods or Warp.

Upon reading through both options, Tommen immediately shook his head at the first one. There was no way he'd ever take something like that. The Seven Hells would have to freeze before he'd even consider becoming something akin to his older brother even if he would never actually hurt anyone like Joffrey did. At least, Tommen hoped he'd never do such a thing, certainly not on purpose at any rate. That said, the other option...he couldn't have said why, but something about the Brand of Slaanesh made him shiver with fear for a whole other reason. Despite the assurance to the contrary, something about the way it all too briefly described this 'Lord of Pleasure', made Tommen uncomfortable. He knew what pleasure was of course since he enjoyed good food, walks through the gardens during warm summer days, and the comfort of a good book like anyone else, but something told him that wasn't what was being described. Plus the very fact he might end up with some kind of marking on his skin also didn't sit well with him, but of the two options? The Brand was probably the far safer one.

The moment that the choice had been made, Tommen gasped with no small amount of pain when he felt a burning sensation on the inside of his chest. It passed quickly, but the unexpected sensation made it clear that this wasn't a dream after all. He gasped for another reason altogether when Tommen put that together, making him turn pale as a freshly washed linen sheet as he glanced down at his thin shift covered chest, half expecting to see his skin smoking. All he saw when he pulled his shirt up was smooth, unmarked skin which prompted a huge sigh of relief since trying to explain any of this was…well beyond him, to put it lightly. Thankfully he wouldn't have to, but the fact remained that he now had some kinda brand on the inside of his chest, and that he could feel something not entirely unpleasant radiating from it now as it suffused his entire being. The strange feeling also passed quickly enough, but it still left him confused and unsure if he'd made the right choice after all.

Shaking it off as best he could, Tommen ripped his last Gold Ticket apart.

[Ring of the Bull]

|Rare Item|

This golden ring ruby ring grants its wearer increased strength and endurance when worn. These increased stats are half a flat boost and half a percentage boost.

[Sexual Calibration]

|Uncommon Trait|

All of the minor inconveniences sex once had are now gone, forget about STDs, hygiene precautions, or unwanted pregnancies because you can adjust how all of those interact with you. In addition, you are very talented in the tantric arts.

This one actually gave him pause, and not because one option was bad this time. If anything, both of them, provided he understood what the descriptions were saying correctly, were good for different reasons. The first was rather obvious since being stronger, like his father, Robert, at least until his recent death from a hunting accident, would be a boon all on its own. That said, Tommen was just smart enough to know that for all of his late father's once great strength, it hadn't helped him overcome his sadness even if he often put on a brave face whenever he made time for him and Myrcella, which…had been few and far between. Despite the somewhat frequent neglect, Tommen still missed his father dearly, and sniffled before wiping at his eyes with a sigh. Even so, if the ring did what it promised, and he, at this point, had no reason to doubt otherwise, would also ensure his health in some fashion. That would ensure he could survive whatever the world decided to throw at him, although again, he couldn't help but remember how his father had died to a boar in spite of how strong he was and eventually shook his head. No…greater strength alone wouldn't help him.

The other choice on the other hand made him blush since he knew, or he thought he knew, what sex was, and that it could be…uncomfortable if what he'd overheard from the Lannister men when they didn't realize he was there was anything to go by. Of course, most of those instances where Tommen had been in a position to overhear anything of the sort usually happened when his family's soldiers had had one too many cups of wine, so he took what little he'd heard with a pinch of salt since he'd seen Robert drunk often enough to know how foolish people got while under its spell. That and he also had a feeling they'd been boasting of their achievements of bedding this woman or that woman, rather than saying anything of value, but he shook off his wandering thoughts moments later. The point was that the only reason he was thinking about the other option at all was because Tommen knew he'd eventually have to marry, either as the new king or a High Lord of some castle or another, and the thought of accidentally hurting whoever he wound up with made his stomach roil since that was the last thing he wanted to do to his future wife. Plus well…being able to ensure she enjoyed herself was just a bonus. He was kind like that even though the thought made him blush more than ever.

Then came the time to rip the last ticket he had, the Platinum Familiar Ticket. What a Familiar was, Tommen couldn't have said, only that he wondered if it was something akin to a pet, or maybe a friend? Glancing towards where he knew a small, orange tabby cat was sleeping beneath one of the windows where the morning sun would come through, Tommen smiled at the thought of having another friend like Ser Pounce. He just hoped that Joffrey wouldn't finally carry out his threats of leaving any pets Tommen decided to keep as his own dead on his bed or something equally nightmarish. He hesitated though when he wondered if he might end up with a whole person, and if he did, would they be loyal to him at all, or would they want to go back home? Would their own family and friends miss them if they were here? That alone nearly made Tommen put the Platinum Ticket back into the strange box, and to forget it ever existed. And yet, Tommen was alone. He had no one to lean on, not like everyone else. Kids his age didn't really talk to him for fear of upsetting his mother, the Queen Regent, and Tommen was well aware that Cersei Lannister was…not a nice person. She was still his mother, and she loved him just as much as he loved her, but Tommen had no real friends to speak of because of that fact. No friends that weren't afraid of saying the wrong thing anyway, or were too afraid of his brother to risk drawing Joffrey's attention by spending time with him, come to think of it.

A clarification, your mini-Grace. A Familiar can be either a sentient animal, like Ser Pounce for example, or a person that may or may not be human. Either way, loyalty to you is enforced from the moment they're summoned to your side. How you justify their presence however is between you and them. With that said, they are only a copy, so they've no home to return to, and no one will miss them.

That was…not entirely comforting, but it did ease the guilt of even considering using his last ticket just to get himself a friend. Tommen still hesitated of course, not sure if he could trust what the strange message had said, but it had, thus far, not lied to him as far as he could tell, and loneliness eventually won out over his hesitation. Tommen took a steadying breath all the same before he slowly picked up the Platinum Ticket, and slowly ripped it in half. Like all the rest he only then realized, the ticket fragments disappeared, along with the strange box, leaving no trace they'd ever been there. He forgot all about that however when there was a whoosh of air by the right side of his bed, near the windows. Jerking his head that way, he half expected to see storm clouds on the horizon. What he saw was no storm however. And for some reason, the strong winds came with…music, as the message changed once more. He had no idea what the words meant, only that the song they'd likely come from felt…sad, yet comforting. Like those found in a lullaby, something his mother sometimes sang to him when sleep didn't come easily to Tommen.

Bless me with the leaf off of the tree

On it, I see the freedom reign

We are falling, the light is calling

Tears inside me calm me down

Midnight calling, mist of resolving

Crown me with the pure green leaf

Praise to my father blessed by the water

Black night, dark sky, the devils cry

Not that Tommen gave them more than a glance as, right before his eyes, a slash in the very air itself appeared before a second followed, forming an X of burning blue flames that didn't burn anything they touched. When the X fully formed, the air itself peeled back, revealing a black void that had Tommen turning pale all over again because it felt like dozens of things were staring out of that darkness. Hungry, evil and terrible things that wouldn't hesitate to devour him, or worse, if given the chance, but he forgot all about that too when his eyes fell on the man that slowly approached the hole he had apparently opened in Tommen's bedroom as easily as someone would open a normal doorway. He looked human enough, but even at this distance, Tommen knew that there was something not right with the silver-haired man drawing ever closer to the rip in reality itself.

He looks like a nobleman. Tommen couldn't help but think, although no noble he knew had ever dressed quite like the man that soon enough stepped out of the tear like he'd done it a thousand times before. Pale, steely blue eyes fell upon the young boy at the same time the tear behind him sealed itself shut with a quiet roar of unnatural flame, transfixing Tommen until he was able to take in the rest of the young man's sharp, angular features with swept back silver hair, his open, dark blue overcoat with gold highlights around the edges stopping just above his sturdy leather brown boots. Beneath that coat was a finely pressed black undershirt, and a matching pair of dark blue pants were the first things Tommen noticed. The second thing was the sword on his hip. It wasn't a straight sword, not like the dozens he'd seen all his life being carried by the Lannister soldiers and the Kingsguard alike. It was curved, elegant, and he had the uneasy feeling it was just as unnatural as the man who seemed to treat it like an extension of his body with the sheer ease he seemed to carry it at his side.

"H-hello." It was the weakest greeting he'd ever given, but Tommen felt the heavy weight of the man's presence ease ever so slightly as he tilted his head a fraction to the right. The air felt still all the same, as if even the room was holding its breath, and Tommen became painfully aware of every movement he made. Even the crackling of the fireplace felt muted now until the uncomfortable tension was broken by the man's first words.

"Tommen Baratheon, I take it." The man said, his tone quiet, yet oozing with a level of confidence that could've bordered on arrogance if Tommen didn't instinctively understand that it was well earned in his case. Perhaps that Brand of Slaanesh was working already? Not that Tommen gave that more than a passing thought as he shakily nodded, his gaze never leaving the nobleman's face.

"Y-yes, and y-you are?" Tommen asked, unaware that, fearful as he might be, he'd already earned a sliver of the warrior's respect for not cowing in the face of such overwhelming power.

"Vergil." The man said with a slight nod of his head only for both of them to glance to their left when they heard a soft scraping of little claws, seeing Ser Pounce looking right at the silver-haired stranger before going right back to sleep. The tiniest of lip twitches was followed by him saying, "hmph…to be young, carefree, and careless again."

Tommen was amazed since he had fully expected his little kitten to run away from Vergil. More amazingly though, he could sense the melancholy beneath a restrained mix of rage and confidence, making him relax, if only a little. Why would someone like this be sad though? It was a question he wisely kept to himself, and instead asked, "why are you…uh here?"

He immediately kicked himself for the stupid question, not at all helped by the way Vergil was now looking at him, as if he were addressing a particularly dense child which…wasn't unfair at the moment. "You summoned me. Mere chance might've seen me bound to you, boy, but you still made the choice to use what the Chaos Gacha has given you."

"R-right…sorry, this is…just a lot." Tommen managed to say, only to blink owlishly when Vergil dismissed his sword, the weapon disappearing in a pale blue blaze. "Magic?! You can do magic?"

"What gave it away? The slash in reality I opened to get here, or the Yamato disappearing?" Vergil flatly retorted, but despite the dismissive tone, there was the faintest feeling of amusement beneath the seemingly ever present anger and annoyance.

"...B-both?" Tommen timidly replied before he remembered he had no idea how he was going to explain, let alone justify, Vergil's sudden appearance here and apparent loyalty to Tommen alone if someone saw him standing by his bedside. He'd be put to the sword faster than he could try to say he wasn't a threat, or…well, he hoped he wasn't anyway. At the least he…probably wasn't a threat to Tommen himself, but anyone else might be another story. There was just too much he didn't know, and he had no idea where to even start to try and unravel the whole slew of problems he'd just had heaped onto his lap through his own actions no less.

That was when the door started to open.

With a gasp, Tommen glanced towards it, was about to say something, to get Vergil to go away before he was seen…or worse, but when he looked back, the man was gone. Tommen could only blink dumbly again, but he felt…somewhere deep down, that Vergil hadn't gone far. Just far enough that he wouldn't be discovered, but how he'd been able to move that fast, and that quietly, was a mystery Tommen had no answer for. And soon enough it didn't matter because his mother took one look at him before letting out a soft gasp and closing the distance between them as fast as her night gown would allow before just as quickly pulling him into a hug that hurt his ribs, but he didn't care. "Tommen! You're awake! Oh my darling boy."

Tommen happily returned the embrace, unaware that Vergil had positioned himself to give him an unimpeded view right into his bedroom from a nearby tower, and that he was looking at the happy family moment with a mix of jealousy, envy, and longing he'd never admit to. All Tommen was aware of was his mother's warmth as she didn't quite crush him to her chest, the scent of lavender oil easy to pick up on. A familiar scent, one he associated with her alone. Cupping his face tenderly between her soft, slender fingers, he looked up and saw the relieved tears in his mother's eyes. "Are you in any pain, Tommen? Do you…remember what happened?"

"I'm…alright, I think, and y-yes. I remember." Tommen hesitantly replied, all too sure she knew what had happened, and had likely even given Joffrey an earful, crown or no crown since Tommen knew that she loved all of them fiercely. Still, his heart ached when he saw Cersei's ever so slight grimace, having likely hoped he wouldn't remember what happened to put him in this state to begin with. So instead of dwelling on that, he asked, "H-how long was I…asleep?"

"A week and three days." Cersei quietly said as she hugged him to her chest again. "I was so afraid you would never wake again, as was Myrcella." Tellingly, Joffrey wasn't included in that list, but that didn't surprise Tommen. It still hurt a little, but he was able to push that aside for now, a part of his mind hard at work in trying to figure out a way to make this work with Vergil now…bound to him through sorcery he could scarcely begin to wrap his head around. Then an idea came to his mind when he saw one of the Kingsguard standing just outside the doorway, but his mother's next words pulled him out of his thoughts, "Are you hungry, my darling boy?"

The question prompted Tommen's stomach to growl quite loudly in response. "I-I could eat a little." He admitted, blushing crimson down to his chest only for Cersei to offer a rare, genuine sounding laugh before she got up though not before wiping the tears away from her eyes. A lion didn't show weakness after all. Even so, the late hour would throw off everything that followed, but he didn't worry about it for long as his mother hurried off to fetch one of the servants.

A few moments later, and Cersei was back at his side, hugging him again, as if afraid he'd disappear in a puff of smoke. "Eat as much as you want, my precious lion. Lessons can wait a few days while Maester Pycelle makes sure you're alright." He smiled a little at that since it also meant he'd have more time to put the beginnings of a plan together since, if he was now in charge of someone else, then the least he could do was ensure that Vergil was taken care of. Now he just had to hope he managed to make it work.

It took time for something to be thrown together from the kitchens, but it was far from unheard of for nobles and for the royal family to sometimes want a late snack. The fact he was awake and, as far as they knew, himself included, mentally whole meant it was cause for celebration. Not a full on banquet by any means, just the simple joy of having their family together once more even if Tommen missed Uncle Jaime, the man having been gone from the capital since being called on to fight in the war against Robb Stark and the Northerners. He smiled more freely though when Myrcella sleepily came to Tommen's room to see what all the fuss was about, only to dash the remaining feet between them when she saw he was awake and sitting next to their mother on the bed. "Tommen!"

"Myrc-oomph!" Tommen grunted, smiling from ear to ear despite the fact his sister was now also trying to crush the life from him.

"Myrcella, you're crushing your brother." Cersei gently chastised, prompting the kind-hearted girl to let go with a hurried apology.

Tommen didn't mind though, and said as much. "It's alright mother, Myrcella. I'm…sorry to have worried you both though."

"It's okay." Myrcella said through her joyous tears as she shook her head of curly gold locks.

"Yes, you're alright, that's all that matters." Cersei agreed before the first of their late night feast arrived.

Once it was over, and he'd been ushered back to bed, only then did Vergil reappear on the balcony before approaching Tommen's side once more. The boy tensed slightly, but that feeling of melancholy he'd sensed earlier had increased, if only a little. That was the only reason he didn't wilt under the man's intimidating presence as Vergil folded his hands neatly behind his back. "I take it that woman was your mother and sister."

"Y-yes. Cersei Lannister, the Queen Regent, and my sister, Myrcella." Tommen explained before he added, "Joffrey is…the king now after our father passed away, but he's…not kind."

"A polite way of saying he's cruel to you and your sister, let alone others he sees as beneath him." Vergil stated, making the boy grimace at having been seen through so easily. "He has no idea what true cruelty is. Be grateful that you don't either, boy." That got a curious tilt of Tommen's head, but he didn't ask about it yet. Instead he moved to his books, and gathered up the last gift he'd gotten from his Uncle Tyrion before he'd left to also fight in the same war as his Uncle Jaime. The complete history and songs of the Seven Kingdoms, seven books in total. Vergil, to his relief, nodded his head as he took the offered books, leaving little doubt that he understood what Tommen was asking him to do. "You understand the value of knowledge."

"I…understand that you don't know anything about this place, yes." Tommen timidly replied while somehow maintaining eye contact. "Those should hopefully help you understand a little about where…you are now because of…me."

It was the closest to an apology he'd gotten since this mess began, but if Vergil heard it, the man made no indication, choosing instead to look over the titles of each of the books in turn. "Books can only take one so far, but they are a beginning. Tell me then, Tommen, how do you propose to explain my presence to those you might one day rule?" Vergil asked as he made the books disappear much in the same way he'd made his sword disappear earlier. Tommen must've given something away of his worry because Vergil added in that same, not quite dismissive tone, "the volumes are safe, they are merely stored away for safe keeping."

"Al-alright, and as for how…" His plan was fairly simple and remarkably straightforward, and to his relief, Vergil nodded his approval when he had finished laying out what he'd been able to put together in the short amount of time he'd been given. "You…like it?"

"It is the most efficient way forward, and it requires little in the way of deception. Lies are…beneath me, so I avoid them wherever possible." That…honestly didn't surprise Tommen to hear given what little he'd already begun to understand about the strange, admittedly terrifying man in front of him. Unfortunately, even he understood that everyone in the capital lied for one reason or another, and they weren't above stabbing each other in the back just to get ahead, or to draw ever closer to the throne as was more often the case. Then Vergil added, as if reading his mind, "Even so, the truth can just as easily be twisted. Something you would be wise to remember."

"H-how can the truth be twisted?" Tommen asked, more than a little confused by the man's words, but Vergil offered no explanation as he simply disappeared again. He only just saw the blur of motion, the trail of blue and black that faded as quickly as it appeared. It was the only hint to say which direction Vergil had just gone, leaving Tommen to wonder, yet again, how he could move that fast. How anyone could move that fast really. He did his best to put it out of his mind though, and instead crawled back into bed, having no idea the storm he'd unleashed on the Seven Kingdoms, or how far that same storm would reach before this was all said and done.

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Chapter 1 Perks

3x Gold Advantage Tickets

[Talented]

|Rare Trait|

You are a talent in every field of experience. You pick up any skill considerably faster than the average person and improve faster too.

[Sunshine Charm]

|Uncommon Trait|

You exude a vibe of goodness and purity, good-aligned beings like you more. It is easier to convince that you are doing good.

[Reapers Presence]

|Elite Trait|

[Brand of Slaanesh]

|Elite Trait|

[Ring of the Bull]

|Rare Item|

This golden ring ruby ring grants its wearer increased strength and endurance when worn. These increased stats are half a flat boost and half a percentage boost.

[Sexual Calibration]

|Uncommon Trait|

Platinum Familiar Ticket (gifted due to…reasons)

[Vergil, Son of Sparda]

|Epic Familiar| (5.8)

Devil May Cry 1, 3, and 5 - (Video game verse only) The Storm That is Approaching has arrived.

Like his late father, Sparda, the legendary Dark Knight, and twin brother Dante, a chaotic yet good hearted Demon Hunter, Vergil is a master swordsman with untapped potential to rival even the likes of Mundus, the Demon King. Carrying the reality slicing samurai sword, the Yamato, the powerful Light infused Beowulf gauntlets and greaves, and able to summon an endless stream of magically forged Mirage Blades and telekinetically throw them with his will alone, as well as being able to magically create a doppelganger of himself that can fight independently for a limited time, Vergil is a threat at any range. And just like Dante, due to his hybrid nature as half human on his mother's side, and half demon on his father's, he can transform himself, entering what's called a Devil Trigger state which increases his already considerable speed, strength, and power even more. Unfortunately, his shadow has a tendency to reveal him for what he truly is, appearing far larger and monstrous than his human appearance would lead one to believe…

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End Notes: And there you have it, Mr. Motivation himself, bound to a 'pathetic' human boy that has more spine than most would in his position even if Tommen doesn't realize it himself yet. Enforced loyalty or not, Vergil's interactions with Tommen would've been very different if he hadn't been able to push past his instinctual terror of our trauma-filled samurai. And before anyone asks, Vergil is post DMC V, but he's been set back to where he was in DMC 3 just so he isn't even MORE of a stupidly powerful character when compared to everyone else, but by having him able to reflect on his past choices, to actually acknowledge all that he'd done? It allows him to grow and change as this goes on, same as Tommen. At any rate though, I'll see you all later folks. Last edited: Wednesday at 10:46 PM Like Quote ReplyReport Reactions:00sidney00, Jeff Roy, SwordBearer and 312 others

Perks and Chapter List

Spoilers abound folks, so read this at your own discretion.

Chaos Gacha link is here.

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Chapter 1 Perks

3x Gold Advantage Tickets

[Talented]

|Rare Trait|

You are a talent in every field of experience. You pick up any skill considerably faster than the average person and improve faster too.

[Sunshine Charm]

|Uncommon Trait|

You exude a vibe of goodness and purity, good-aligned beings like you more. It is easier to convince that you are doing good.

[Reapers Presence]

|Elite Trait|

[Brand of Slaanesh]

|Elite Trait|

[Ring of the Bull]

|Rare Item|

This golden ring ruby ring grants its wearer increased strength and endurance when worn. These increased stats are half a flat boost and half a percentage boost.

[Sexual Calibration]

|Uncommon Trait|

Platinum Familiar Ticket (gifted due to…reasons)

[Vergil, Son of Sparda]

|Epic Familiar| (5.8)

Devil May Cry 1, 3, and 5 - (Video game verse only) The Storm That is Approaching has arrived.

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Chapter 2 perks

Silver Tier rolls

[Hawkeye Gough]

|Rare Familiar|

Dark Souls - "What is bravery without a dash of recklessness!" Hawkeye Gough is a Giant and an incredibly skilled archer, once lauded as one of the 4 knights of Gwyn, the God of Sunlight, and the former Leader of the Dragonslayers, having shot down many of them in the sky with his massive greatbow. His immense strength and size allow him to wield a massive greatbow with incredible power, and his skills in archery are so honed that he can knock a dragon out of the sky while blinded. Despite his brutish strength, he is considerably wise and intelligent.

[Holy Cow]

|Common Familiar|

"Holy Cow!" Is a Holy Cow, quite literally, a large, healthy female cow that always lactates and can be milked for 10 and up to 50 liters of milk per day, depending on how well fed she is. Thanks to her holy origins, the milk she produces is truly extraordinary, having great health benefits, nutrient-dense, and of incredible quality compared to mundane milk. It can also function as low-quality holy water against unholy. Any children she has will mostly inherit her incredible genes and holy blessing.

Gold Tier rolls

[Nakiri]

|Uncommon Trait|

Shokugeki no Souma - You are a child of the Nakiri Clan, a born gourmet and chef. You have a natural affinity towards cooking, allowing you to improve your cooking skills and recipes much faster than an ordinary person. You also possess the God Tongue, allowing you to discern taste at a level unimaginable by the average person, even being able to pick out specific ingredients and their amounts from others with a single bite.

[Power Pole]

|Rare Item|

Dragon Ball - An incredibly durable Bo Staff wielded by Son Goku(The Saiyan, not the god), that allows the user to freely extend its length by expending their energy.

[Adept Savoir Faire]

|Rare Skill|

You are one smooth bastard. Grace and Finesse are natural to you. Allowing you to move with flair and smoothness. You are skilled at acrobatics, dancing, parkour and anything that requires finesse or agility

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Chapter 3 Perks

Bronze Tier roll

[Sif]

|Uncommon Familiar|

Dark Souls - The loyal companion of Artorias, Sif is a giant dog who also possesses immense experience in battle and is far more intelligent than the average dog.

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Chapter 4 Perks

Bronze Tier roll

[Slumbering Dragoncrest Ring]

|Uncommon Item|

Dark Souls - his ring was secretly worn by a certain surreptitious sorcerer at Vinheim Dragon School. The ring is engraved with an everlasting dragon in silent slumber, and masks all sound emitting from its wearer.

Silver Tier roll

[Harem King]

|Rare Trait|

You are a harem king to be, your preffered partners are more attracted to you and society as a whole does not see a problem with you having a harem. In addition, your partners do not mind you dating others either, they might still have their own problems but the concept of a harem isn't one of them.

Gold Tier roll

[Intermediate Communication]

|Uncommon Skill|

You are skilled at understanding others and conveying your own intent through words and actions. Allowing you to better discern the emotions behind their words and make yourself understood to people who otherwise have a hard time understanding you.

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Chapter 5 Perks

Silver Tier roll

[Musk]

|Uncommon Trait|

Your smell is really good, a bit arousing even.

Gold Tier roll

[Ring of the Bull]

|Rare Item|

This golden ring ruby ring grants its wearer increased strength and endurance when worn. These increased stats are half a flat boost and half a percentage boost.

[Angel Feather Arrows]

|Rare Item|

Hota - A quiver of infinite arrows fletched with the feathers of angels, these arrows do not get slower from flying and retain their maximum speed when flying until they hit a target.

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Chapter 6 Perks

Silver Tier rolls

[Tickets Please]

|Rare Trait|

Allows you to withdraw your tickets as physical, tangible tickets that you can hand over to other people. If someone else rips the ticket, they will get the result of the roll instead, subject to the same rules as the user.

[Knight Killer]

|Uncommon Item|

Solo Levelling - A large dagger made for dealing with heavily armoured opponents, the stronger the armour an opponent is wearing, the more damage the dagger deals.

Gold Tier rolls

[Adept Hand-to-Hand Combat]

|Rare Skill|

You are very talented in unarmed combat, on the level of a veteran martial artist. You know how to move your body to unleash powerful blows, at this level your arms and legs are lethal weapons.

[Refined Heart-Shaped Herb]

|Elite Item|

MCU - A mystical herb from Wakanda blessed by the goddess Bast. This harvest has been refined to filter out any harmful side effects and mystical strings attached, making it completely safe to consume. Consuming it grants enhanced strength, speed, stamina, durability, reflexes, agility, and instincts. Restock Timer: 240 Hours

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Chapter 7 Perks

Bronze Tier rolls

[Sex Manipulation]

|Common Ability|

Allows you to alter your genitals to your liking as long as the changes are not absurd. Make your penis large, smaller, curved, horse shaped or just add another penis on top because why not? Get rid of your wiener, give yourself one if you never had one. Go wild, the possibilities are there.

Silver Tier rolls

[Litigation]

|Uncommon Skill|

You have the skills of an experienced lawyer, having a great grasp on the laws of the world, country and city you are in, to the point where you can easily defend yourself or a client in their local court of law. If someone has a problem, they'd better call you.

[Expert Management]

|Elite Skill|

You have become an expert in the art of management. Whether it is managing finances, people, assets, distributing tasks or managing your own attention and problems you can do so with brutal efficiency and expertise. You can easily run a multi-national company or a nation.

Gold Tier rolls

[Adept Arms Mastery]

|Elite Skill|

You are able to handle all conventional weapons, ranging from knives to swords to axes to polearms to guns to bows to even chained weapons and clubs with great skill, enough to match most dedicated practitioners in skill.

[Pendragon]

|Epic Trait|

You are the child of Pendragon, the destined, rightful King and Dragon. Sovereignty is in your blood; you are more resistant to negative mental conditions and are an incredible talent when it comes to anything related to ruling, such as litigation, management, military, economics, etc, as well as an increase to your natural charisma. In addition, as the child of the one recognized as a "Dragon", you have increased physical abilities as well as larger energy reserves and faster energy recovery. You also have incredible talent with blades due to carrying the blood of Excalibur's wielder, especially with magical swords.

[Hanma]

|Rare Trait|

Baki - You are a Hanma, you are incredibly genetically gifted, possessing increased resistance to poisons and your physical stats grow way faster. In addition, you have so much testosterone in you, any other men may as well be a girl in comparison. Your talent in martial arts is also greatly increased. If you are female the same effects apply without the testosterone, you are just a genetically gifted freak.

[Super Crown - Mario]

|Uncommon Item|

A magical crown that turns whoever wears it into a pretty girl.Last edited: Wednesday at 11:15 PM Like Quote ReplyReport Reactions:Bollmer, guisniperman, Black Fyre and 41 othersVergil1989 Crossover KingWednesday at 10:46 PMNewAdd bookmarkIndexVergil1989 Crossover KingConnoisseur.Wednesday at 10:46 PMNewAdd bookmark#3Reserved just in case Like Quote ReplyReportVergil1989 Crossover KingConnoisseur.Wednesday at 10:47 PMNewAdd bookmark#4Alright everyone, I'll be putting up the rest of my stockpiled chapters after this, but otherwise? Feel free to comment and the like as you wish from here. Like Quote ReplyReport Reactions:Finnish_man, Luftritter and linkline999Threadmarks Ch 2: The Board Has Changed New Threadmarks Vergil1989 Crossover KingConnoisseur.Wednesday at 10:48 PMNewAdd bookmark#5Opening Notes: Well, I'm actually pleasantly surprised that, despite how often I jump around from one idea to the next, that you all are so excited by this latest insanity of mine. Hopefully it lasts longer than ten chapters, if that, ugh. Still, sorry for my ever changing muse and the bullshit she gets up to by not focusing on anything for too long. For now though, let's see where this goes.

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Chapter 2

The Board Has Changed

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The Red Keep, King's Landing

Midafternoon, Summer, one week later…

It'd been a week since Tommen had woken up to the fact he now had some kind of strange power that let him obtain new abilities, and apparently, whole people if Vergil was anything to go by. He hadn't gotten anymore tickets yet, but he had a strange feeling that would change soon enough although he couldn't have said why. Not that he was really dwelling on all that, too focused on the fact he was doing far better with his lessons than he'd ever done before his 'accident', proving that Talented was working about as well as his Brand of Slaneesh. Speaking of the Brand, it'd taken Tommen some time to truly get a grasp on what it was capable of, but now that he had? He had mixed feelings about being able to sense what people were feeling, although he did appreciate being able to understand people a lot better than he ever could before. That said, he wasn't sure he liked the way people, mostly the female servants and maids, had started to look at him the same way some of the Lannister soldiers looked at the…to put it politely, scantily clad women that used to often 'visit' his father. Tommen knew he was cute, his mother had said it often enough, that he would become a handsome young man one day soon, but the sudden interest in him was…offputting.

To get back to Talented for a moment, if only because he didn't want to dwell on the latter power if he didn't have to given his aforementioned discomfort, while he was a bit conflicted there too since it wasn't entirely his own ability, Tommen couldn't help but feel pride anyway in being able to understand anything he read the first time through. Arithmetic, grammar, history, medicine, swordplay, horseback riding, anything he tried or studied, Tommen now excelled at. Sure, he still needed to practice since he was still a young boy and he didn't yet have the physique that would allow him to fight in something more than a sparring ring, to keep up his studies since his memory hadn't been enhanced either, at least not yet, but everything just came…more easily now. Where before he would've thought he was missing something that everyone else already knew, that he was always a step behind if only because he was too timid, too full of self-doubt, largely thanks to Joffrey, now he felt that he'd had his abilities expanded in such a way that it felt completely natural even if Tommen knew better. He might not like that it wasn't entirely his own ability, but he wasn't prideful enough to truly get upset behind his sudden, rapid growth that everyone assumed was an unexpected side effect of his head injury. In a way that wasn't entirely wrong either, so Tommen hadn't felt compelled to correct the assumption.

But then there was the Brand of Slaanesh.

While his ability to sense other people's emotions was limited, Tommen had quickly come to the realization that people were a lot more complicated than he ever would've imagined. True, his imagination was rather limited due to his youth and a lack of life experiences as a result, but he was far from simple. He was just…not used to looking up long enough to truly glean what other people were hiding behind their false smiles and soft words. Now though? Now he couldn't help but to notice the vague emotional impressions he got even when those same people didn't know he was looking their way. That wasn't the only offputting aspect of the Brand's effect on him though because he'd also come to realize something…uncomfortable about most everyone around him. They all kept secrets, even his mother was hiding something big, although what he couldn't have said. It was in the way they moved, the way they ever so subtly hunched in on themselves when they were afraid someone had found something about them they didn't want others to know. It wasn't just secrets they were concerned about though, but also their desires. He couldn't read minds, thank the gods, but simply being able to perceive so much had led to Tommen learning that everyone wanted something.

Food, wine, a reprieve from the heat that was an almost constant presence in King's landing, comfort from loved ones, and…other things he didn't want to think about. Point being, while he couldn't see into their minds, he could still 'see' enough in their body language and the way they spoke, that it was a rather moot point. But at the same time, despite his misgivings about being able to see through their masks so easily now, it was also a comfort since now Tommen could see through the lies and the manipulations that were far too common here in the capital. That said, he could've done without all of the female attention he was now receiving. Thankfully his mother and sister treated him the same as ever. It was every other woman among the servants that made him…uncomfortable. Nothing truly bad or anything had happened, but suddenly he was finding little candied treats waiting for him on occasion whenever he went to attend his lessons, his linens being given extra care by the laundry women, and the looks? The looks he'd seen leveled his way made him blush since they weren't…unwelcome, but he was pretty sure that a full grown woman shouldn't be looking at him the same way she might look at her beloved husband.

Shaking that thought off before he got any more distracted, Tommen returned to the book he'd been reading in the gardens within the Red Keep's high walls. It was a beautiful place, full of well tended-to flowers of every type and pleasant little stone and wooden benches scattered about alongside a number of gazebos that provided shade during too sunny days. That he could now name those same flowers with very little trouble was just another aspect of Talented doing what had promised on the Gacha…window? page? He honestly didn't know what to call the strange messages that had appeared to him that first night once he'd woken up. Not that it mattered, only that today was a pleasant day, and that he was intent to enjoy it now that his lessons were over for the time being. As for what he was reading? It was one of the books he'd let Vergil borrow, recently returned to his shelf just yesterday afternoon. How the man had gotten past all of the guards, the sentries, and the servants without anyone seeing him was another mystery, but with how fast Tommen had already seen him move, it wasn't hard to imagine that he'd simply…avoided everyone by being too quick to perceive. Speaking of though, Tommen had to wonder what the man was doing now? He, hopefully, was on his way to the Red Keep to enact their plan so that he could be at Tommen's side all the time if things worked as he hoped they would.

But Tommen's thoughts were derailed when he saw Sansa Stark quietly walking through the inner courtyard garden, her head hung low per usual. No surprise given how Joffrey habitually tormented her simply because she was the sister to Robb Stark, the leader of the Northern rebellion even now taking place across the Riverlands. The fact he was supposed to marry her one day soon didn't seem to matter much to Joffrey, having forced Sansa to stare at the severed heads of her father, her former septa, and a number of House Stark's loyal retainers that had been here until things had…happened that had ensured Sansa's father and their loyal bannermen were killed, with the last of them being Lord Eddard Stark when Joffrey had the man executed on the steps of the Sept of Baelor. Tommen had seen enough of Lord Stark to know that he hadn't been a bad man, and now that he could understand so much more about everyone around him? He knew that they'd lied about Eddard being a 'confessed traitor'. What he couldn't figure out was why. Tommen knew it had something to do with the throne, because everyone wanted the Iron Throne or to at least be able to influence those that sat upon it, but that wasn't the only reason. No…he had a feeling it had something to do with whatever his mother was hiding from him, from everyone.

Even so, despite knowing this, and knowing that talking to the daughter of a so-called traitor could be potentially dangerous for Sansa if not himself as well, Tommen still felt compelled to try and talk to her anyway. Because just looking at her as she got close enough that he could see the way the sun shone off of her beautiful red hair tied into a simple yet elegant braid while the rest was allowed to fall down her back, he could practically taste how sad and terrified she was even if at the moment, she only looked sad. The other reason why he hesitated was due to the Brand warning him in a way he couldn't put into words, that approaching her now would be a very bad idea. Not because Sansa herself was dangerous, but because of what would likely happen to her if the wrong person saw Tommen speaking to the Stark girl. She was a hostage, a valuable one, but she was allowed to go where she wished within the confines of the Red Keep for the most part.

Not that it offered her much comfort given what Joffrey regularly did to her, but the point was, she wasn't being watched every hour of every day. That could very well change if it was believed she was influencing him in some way. That he was even thinking such complicated thoughts would've been unheard of just a week ago, but he couldn't ignore what was now all too easy to see. That didn't stop Tommen from locking eyes with her though just as she started past. Tommen would be lying if he said he didn't find her…pretty, but he was far more focused on the glimmer of something even he couldn't name pass over her face when she read what he was trying to silently convey before she passed him without ever losing pace so as not to arouse suspicion in any way. Too distracted by the encounter now however, Tommen sighed as he marked the page he was on, got up, and started for the Iron Throne's throne room and the main hall of the Red Keep since he had nothing better to do at the moment. He was barely halfway there though when he heard excited murmurs and uneasy whispers. At the same time, he felt that Vergil was drawing close, and Tommen put on only a slight burst of speed so as not to arouse suspicion towards him either for a whole other slew of reasons.

The Red Keep was huge, its construction began by Aegon the Conqueror, and ending with Maegor the Cruel. It took three generations of Targaryens to finish the Red Keep, the seat of power for the royal family within the capital of King's Landing. What had started out as a simple fort had been expanded upon in that time period to become the royal castle and fortress that it was today, full of secret passages only known to a limited few. The only reason Tommen knew about the hidden pathways that ran throughout the walls was because Ser Pounce had slipped into one by complete accident after the silly cat had found a hidden switch. Tommen had followed, simply wanting to make sure the little orange tabby didn't end up getting hurt. Point being though, the Red Keep was a truly massive structure with the Seven only knew how many secrets all its own, but one thing it didn't do well was mute sound. The stone walls carried voices and other such noises rather well, so Tommen heard mutters of 'a stranger with silver hair' slowly approaching the castle long before the young prince found his way to the large grand throne room with the Iron Throne sitting upon its raised dais. The Iron Throne…a truly grisly thing considering it'd been made from the melted down swords of everyone the Targaryens had conquered when they'd first landed on Westerosi shores, it was a thing that Tommen had never liked, now more than ever considering Joffrey was sitting on it. But unlike what the stories claimed, the Iron Throne didn't have a thousand blades forged into what it was now. He'd counted them in the past week just to satisfy his own curiosity, and had only counted just under two hundred.

Yet another lie to add to the ever growing pile.

Seeing Joffrey sitting on the throne, Tommen kept back, out of sight of his older brother's gaze. However, he felt compelled to see what was about to happen next, so he hesitantly put himself up against one of the large columns draped with vines of sweet smelling ivy that held up the high roof of the Red Keep, and did his best to keep out of his brother's line of sight while still being able to see what transpired. He was no catspaw, but Tommen felt reasonably sure Joffrey couldn't see him with where he now stood as he did his best to keep the column between himself and the Iron Throne. He needn't have bothered since Joffrey's attention, along with everyone else's, was on the approaching crowd of the usual petitioners, but all eyes weren't on them. They were on the well dressed 'nobleman' that Tommen had brought to this world by complete accident. Vergil stood out from the crowd, and not simply because he looked like he belonged in a grand banquet, but because there was just…something not quite right with how still and composed he was where everyone else moved about far more freely by comparison. Yet even that started to slow and stop as the weight of the man's presence began to wash over everyone, and much to his astonishment, Tommen saw that Joffrey was nervous.

He hid it well, but Tommen could see the truth. His older brother was afraid, even if he didn't know why. Tommen didn't fully understand it himself, not really, not yet, only that Vergil was intimidating without even having to try, and it had little to do with the sheathed sword he carried openly in his left hand. Sandor Clegane, Ser Boros Blunt, Ser Meryn Trant, along with everyone else on the Kingsguard, those that were here anyway, let alone all of the Lannister men-at-arms that were scattered about the audience hall, instinctively tensed as they too felt their gazes drawn to the silver haired man who calmly, slowly, strode down the middle of the hall at the head of the crowd of those who wished to ask for aid for one reason or another from the king. Tommen couldn't help but be a bit envious of how effortlessly confident Vergil appeared. He didn't want to terrify people the way that he did, but he did want to be able to exude that same level of confidence, to appear as if he could do anything he set his mind to, and to never bend to anyone. At least, that's the impression Tommen got watching Vergil's confident stride down the center aisle like he owned the Red Keep, and everyone else was just inconveniences at best that should get out of his way without him ever having to open his mouth.

Joffrey swallowed once before he found his voice, putting on a brave face he was certain wasn't fooling Vergil. It certainly wasn't fooling Tommen, but he pushed that aside so he didn't miss what happened next as Joffrey slowly sat forward on the Iron Throne and said, "You stand before your king. State your name and purpose here."

Vergil's response was to put his sheathed blade's hilt between his hands as he put it upright between his feet, its tip resting lightly against the stone floor, appearing perfectly at ease before he answered. "My name is Vergil. As for my purpose here, I seek employment."

The fact he didn't appear the slightest bit deferential to his older brother wasn't lost on anyone, least of all Joffrey as he tensed slightly, his face twisting with discomfort and anger both although the former won out this time. He started to open his mouth, but no words came out at the same time Tommen saw his brother's hands tighten on the edges of the throne. Before he could find his voice again though, their mother spoke first from off to the side from her own, smaller, throne. "And why should we grant such a request… to a foreign sellsword? You arrive unannounced, offer no fealty, and yet ask for employment. Why should we entertain such boldness?"

"Because you require strength." Vergil stated simply, letting the subtle insults pass right over him since, to Tommen, it was clear that such words held no meaning as Tommen watched his gaze flick meaningfully towards the Kingsguard first before he slowly turned his head towards the Lannister men next before just as slowly letting his gaze settle on his mother and brother. "What you have is…insufficient." Most people would've been laughed out of the throne room after saying such a thing since the Kingsguard were supposed to be the best swordsmen in the Seven Kingdoms. And yet no one laughed at Vergil's bold statement however. In fact, scarcely anyone breathed as the weight of his presence intensified in those few words that he deigned to let flow from his lips even as Tommen noticed how many of those same men he'd just insulted let hands begin to move towards their weapons. Something that Vergil didn't miss as his neutral visage morphed ever so slightly, his lips pulling up into a blade thin smile that completely lacked warmth. "You prove my point with how quickly you react to mere words."

Tommen glanced towards the men in question, and was more than a little surprised with what he saw. Sandor Clegane for one, shockingly, hadn't reached for his weapon, unlike most everyone else. Joffrey's personal bodyguard and sworn shield, seemed to be aware of something everyone else had missed, and was apparently in no hurry to draw Vergil's attention unless he was given no choice in the matter by Joffrey. The Kingsguard on the other hand had started to spread out and surround Vergil in a crescent moon formation, putting themselves between Vergil and his mother and brother, but Tommen could see they were just as uneasy, their hands on their swords already, with Ser Meryn Trant having partially drawn steel already.

"Stand down, let him speak." Joffrey commanded, and the Kingsguard relaxed their grips on their weapons, but Tommen couldn't help but feel a wave of dread hit him since his brother was planning something. He was still afraid, and if there was one thing Joffrey hated, it was being made to feel afraid. So he was going to do something to reassert his control. Tommen knew it was going to end badly, for Joffrey, and whoever wound up as his instrument, but Tommen didn't dare try to warn Vergil. Not that he likely needed to, but he still couldn't help but worry for the silver haired man's wellbeing anyway. "Where are you from, stranger? You certainly don't look like you belong here in Westeros."

Another insult, one that was surprisingly subtle coming from Joffrey, and yet Vergil still refused to rise to the bait. Tommen wasn't the only one more than a little surprised when the warrior's lips merely twitched upward just that much more before he simply said, "Volantis. I grew disillusioned with the way they believed chains validated traditions, of power wasted on empty spectacle, and faith used as a leash."

Tommen was pretty sure he'd just insulted them with the same ease Joffrey and his mother had tried to do to him. They noticed it too because the Queen Regent's face twisted ever so slightly with disdain at the same time his brother's grip tightened on the Iron Throne's armrests. Yet that didn't stop their mother from saying, "Volantis breeds many things. Few of them are worth bringing to court. Why should you be the exception?"

"If you have the wisdom you believe you possess, you will determine that on your own." Vergil retorted in that same cool, confident, dismissive tone that had everyone murmuring under their breaths. Disquieted and off balance, Tommen saw the moment Joffrey's temper finally won out at the same time Cersei tensed in her chair because the simple truth was, Vergil wasn't playing their game. He was rewriting the rules they'd grown so used to simply by…being himself. The dismissive insult in his tone didn't help matters, so Tommen quietly wilted since he knew what happened next.

Joffrey didn't disappoint on that front. "You're a bold one for coming from Volantis. My mother's right, but let's say we humor you, see what you're worth. Kingsguard!" The Kingsguard straightened immediately, hands partially pulling their blades if they hadn't already, "let's see how good he thinks he is."

It was over before it had a chance to even begin.

And it started with Vergil saying simply, "you invite consequences you cannot measure."

He didn't draw his sword, that was the biggest thing that stuck with Tommen to the end of his days. Vergil didn't draw steel while everyone else did at the same time Ser Boros Blunt took half a step forward. He was the first that suffered the storm's wrath because the next thing anyone saw, Boros, in full armor, was knocked off his feet with a kick to his armored chest that was almost deafening as it was far too quick to follow when Boros hit the steps leading up to the Iron Throne's dais. Just as quickly, Vergil's sheathed blade slammed into Ser Meryn Trant's sword arm as he danced around him, a fist casually catching another man across his nose, crushing it beneath his elbow. He reversed his spin, slapped Meryn with his sword hilt on his way by, and jarred his head to the side just shy of breaking his neck. From there he closed in for the last two who didn't get a chance to do more than pull their blades free of their sheaths. One sword was broken when Vergil's sheathed blade slammed into one at the same time he kicked the other man's blade aside as he completed his spin only to go right into another spinning kick that caught the last man across the chin. The fourth man, now bereft of a sword, took half a step back, but that was as far as he got before Vergil grabbed him by the front of his armored chest and lifted him, armor and all, off the floor in full view of the court. Just as easily, he slammed the man down, knocking the wind out of him, armor be damned.

Five grown men, people who had been a part of the Kingsguard for years, and they were out cold at Vergil's feet. And what was even more shocking, beyond the fact that he hadn't drawn his sword, was that Vergil had made it look absolutely effortless. To rub salt into the wound, Vergil returned to his earlier pose, sword nestled between both hands with the tip resting between his feet, appearing as if he hadn't just taken down five of the kingdoms' best like he'd been out for a stroll through the city's streets. Everyone, needless to say, were utterly stunned into deafening silence as they tried to wrap their heads around what they'd all seen. Tommen was just as astonished, but unlike them, he wasn't afraid. He was practically vibrating with excitement since, while he still had mixed feelings about what he'd done to get Vergil here in the first place, it fully hit him that this man would protect him and him alone. And best of all, there was no way for his mother or Joffrey to refuse Vergil's employment, not without proving him right and thus appearing even weaker in the eyes of everyone here. Later he'd realize that the situation he'd orchestrated was accidental genius on his part, but at the time? At the time all Tommen could think about was the fact he didn't have to be afraid anymore.

Trapped as they were, Cersei could only do one thing, and Tommen didn't need his Brand to know she hated every moment of it as she said, "It would seem we've sorely underestimated you, Vergil. Perhaps we were…unkind in our initial assessment." It was the closest to an apology he'd ever get, but Vergil, Tommen knew after looking his way for a moment, wouldn't have cared either way. It was then she finally saw him standing behind the pillar, and her icy demeanor cooled, if only a little as she added, "I realize that my youngest son, Tommen, and my daughter Myrcella, are without their own sworn shields whereas King Joffrey has Sandor Clegane."

"The Hound's reputation precedes him." Vergil replied, causing another wave of disbelieving murmurs at the same time Sandor stiffened slightly, torn between quiet pride and unease at having someone clearly his superior acknowledge him at all. "As for your offer, your Grace," the title was said neutrally enough, yet Tommen couldn't help but hear the subtle note of sarcasm behind it, but he was the only one to have noticed it this time, "it would be an honor to serve in such a capacity although I fear even I cannot be in two places at once."

"Nor would you be required to be. I'd only ask," no one was fooled by the word, hearing the command behind it all too well, "that you keep them safe as best you can, but to focus your attention towards Tommen's safety first and foremost. Arrangements will be made for Myrcella's own sworn shield once we find someone…suitable to the task." Tommen was tempted to try and figure out a way to get another Familiar just so his sister would also be protected with the same ferocity, provided he were so fortunate to find anyone half as skilled as Vergil anyway. Still, that this had worked out as well as it had was all that really mattered at the moment, and the fact that Vergil would be protecting them both regardless was a huge weight from Tommen's small shoulders. Even so, he wilted somewhat when he saw Joffrey's quiet fury growing by the moment, unable to do anything about it since Vergil had already proven himself far too strong to control with petty threats. That wouldn't stop him from trying something anyway, but before Tommen was able to dwell on it more than he had, Vergil was dismissed and allowed to go to his side.

"And Tommen?" His mother called out as everyone instinctively took a step back, clearing a path for Vergil to reach him without hindrance, no one about to get in his way if they could help it, "be careful with him, my precious lion. He might be formidable, but I would have you avoid…strange influences." It was much a gentle push to be cautious as it was a threat towards Vergil in the hopes he wouldn't 'influence' Tommen.

"I'll be careful, mother." He promised, but he couldn't have kept the small smile off his face when Vergil glanced over his shoulder which made Joffrey lean back in his seat when the man's gaze fell on him once more. Without another word, they left the grand hall together, Tommen planning to head back to his room to drop his book off if nothing else. That and he needed time to just…think over everything that'd just happened.

It was only as they started towards a flight of stairs that would lead them back up to the royal quarters, that Vergil quietly said, "You handled yourself well."

Tommen nearly tripped over his own feet since he hadn't been expecting an actual compliment. It wasn't much of a compliment, sure, but it was certainly more than he'd have ever expected to hear from the man at his back now. Even so, Tommen couldn't help but sadly sigh out, "I didn't feel like I did. All I did was hide from Joffrey."

"Perhaps," Vergil began as they slowly made their way up ever higher into the Red Keep, "but afraid as you were, you still stood your ground. Bravery is foolishness disguised as bravado. Courage is being able to overcome that fear."

"I was…still afraid though." Tommen softly replied, unsure if he believed what Vergil was saying applied to him.

Vergil, likely sensing as much, tried a different approach. "Look around you, Prince Tommen. Tell me what you see."

Tommen tilted his head slightly, confused, but willing to go along since he was too curious not to heed his words. Glancing around as they continued to walk towards his chambers, and at first didn't see it as he saw the way everyone, from the common servant to the noble lords and ladies they passed, took an instinctive step away from Vergil. It wasn't entirely out of fear either like it would've been had it been Joffrey walking by, yet he had always had to try to be feared. Vergil didn't have to do anything at all as whispers and heavy stares followed them at every turn. "They're…afraid of you, but you aren't even doing anything."

"Exactly, but I did not become this powerful overnight. I had to sacrifice much to obtain this strength." Vergil replied as he gestured with one hand, his still sheathed blade in the other. "Power is taken, not given. Without restraint, it becomes meaningless. Your brother confuses fear for strength. True strength does not announce itself. It simply is."

Tommen couldn't help but see regret and self-loathing in Vergil's otherwise composed demeanor. Was he…talking about himself? He couldn't say for sure, and he didn't dare ask if only because they'd only just started to get to know each other. That said, Tommen felt compelled to ask something because the silence was too uncomfortable for reasons he couldn't put into words. As such, he started to open his mouth, closed it, and finally found the strength to ask, "why tell me at all? You…don't even like me much. Not that I can blame you since I dragged you here without knowing what I was doing."

Vergil tilted his head slightly, giving Tommen the impression that he was genuinely confused by his question before the barest flicker of a smile pulled at his lips. One that wasn't condescending, or full of his usual cold dismissiveness either. "Don't take it personally. I don't like most people." That made Tommen let out a surprised laugh even if he knew Vergil wasn't joking. It helped to know that he wasn't being singled out though. "As for my being here, what's done is done. Dwelling on it serves no purpose. In regards to the rest, I serve you now, but I will not tolerate foolishness. That you listen when I speak does you more credit than you realize."

The silence that followed was far more comfortable, both of them lost in their own thoughts. It helped that Tommen couldn't help but stand a little straighter since he got the distinct impression that he'd just received high praise from the man at his side now. Soon enough though they reached their destination, and Vergil stayed outside his room, giving him time to process all that had occurred, privacy that Tommen greatly appreciated since there was a lot to consider. There was also the fact that he had a feeling the Gacha had finally sent him something new, and he wanted to see what it was. Pouring himself some water from a nearby pitcher, Tommen let out a sigh of relief once he didn't quite inhale the mug's contents, having only then realized his throat had dried up quite badly during the confrontation in the throne room. Now though…now things had changed, and he could barely contain his joy at that fact. Yes, he was still afraid of what Joffrey would try to do, 'try' being the key word there, that when his attempts to hurt or kill Vergil failed that he'd get a chance to isolate Tommen just to torment him directly while Vergil was distracted elsewhere, but all of that paled in comparison to everything else that had occurred.

He took down five members of the Kingsguard on his own! Tommen silently exclaimed, still unable to believe what his eyes had seen. The fact none of them were dead was no accident either. He knew very little of fighting, what it truly took to kill another person, but he could spot restraint when he saw it if only because of Talented and Vergil had held back. How much he'd held back, Tommen didn't know, but what he did know was that he could've easily killed them all if Vergil had wanted to. That he hadn't, just put further emphasis on what they'd just talked about on their way here. He hadn't needed to show off just how strong he was. Vergil had simply needed to demonstrate what little he needed to get his point across, nothing more, nothing less, and everyone had about soiled themselves after they realized what had just happened to five of the best fighters the Seven Kingdoms had. Then again, with everything else Tommen had started to put together, perhaps they weren't as good as they thought themselves to be? Only Ser Barristen Selmy might've been able to stand against Vergil, and even then Tommen wouldn't have put any of his monthly allowance on that.

…He missed Ser Barristan now too.

Shaking off his melancholy as best he could, Tommen sighed as he poured himself a little more water as he mentally turned towards the…strange window that displayed the Gacha once more. He didn't know what else to call the box with the ever shifting words within its confines, so 'window' felt like the most accurate thing he could come up with. Whatever the case, he soon enough tilted his head slightly when he saw a new message appeared, this one saying something about 'achievements' and 'rewards'. Flicking his gaze towards the 'achievements' window first, he soon enough was greeted with a number of messages contained therein.

Silver Tier Rewards

Making a Statement - Accidental genius as it might've been, mini-Grace, you flawlessly set up a situation where the cutthroat 'nobles', including your own mother and brother, were powerless in the face of Vergil's sheer presence and motivation to ensure your safety.

He blushed crimson even if a part of him realized he was being mocked somewhat even as he was being praised for what he'd done. All Tommen had wanted was to make sure Vergil was able to remain at his side. He hadn't actually meant to put his mother on the back foot as he had, but on the other hand, Tommen also knew there likely hadn't been any other way to get what he wanted either. He still felt guilty of course, but…his need to feel safe won out over any guilt he felt backing his mother into a corner. Joffrey he…didn't feel bad about though, and he'd be lying if Tommen said seeing him so uncomfortable with Vergil staring him down hadn't felt satisfying. He did feel some slight guilt over taking enjoyment from Joffrey's discomfort, but he was able to push that aside fairly easily.

Lasting Impression - The court of King's Landing will be talking about this day for years to come, mini-Grace. Congratulations, because strength normally invites challenge, but no one in their right mind will ever dare test your new guardian's patience. And those few who do? They won't like the storm that will fall upon their heads when he or you realize who dared to try.

Tommen…wasn't sure how he felt about that. He was smart enough to know, especially now, that having someone like Vergil around, even if he never killed anyone, would more than likely ensure no one would try to do anything against Tommen himself. Not if they didn't want to see firsthand what his new sworn shield was capable of, and the stories alone that would spread like wildfire would likely end up becoming the stuff of legend, or nightmare. Another 'Rains of Castemere' in a sense, a song he'd honestly had never liked since it detailed the total annihilation of another House due to his grandfather, Lord Tywin Lannister, ruthlessly orchestrating every man, woman, and child's death of said House. Tommen never wanted to be like that either, even if he also respected his grandfather a great deal since he was one of the few in his immediate family that treated Tommen like he mattered while also not coddling him at the same time. He loved his mother dearly, but he wasn't a child anymore. Well…he didn't need to be sheltered like one anyway.

Gold Tier Rewards

Checkmate in a Single Move - Against players who have spent their lives mastering the game, you reshaped the board without even realizing it. The crown wobbles when the rules no longer apply.

Tommen swallowed the nervous lump in his throat since attention wasn't something he wanted. What was worse, he only had himself to blame, but…as Vergil had already said, what was done was done. Dwelling on it would serve no purpose. That was easier said than done though for a boy of only ten namedays who'd not had much in the way of support, confidence, or safety from his own brother, but Tommen valiantly tried anyway.

All Eyes on You - From whispers in silk to daggers in shadow, the court has taken notice. You are no longer invisible.

…Why did that sound like it was talking about Lord Varys, the Master of Whispers, and Lord Petyr Baelish, the Master of Coin? Tommen couldn't have said for sure, only that he felt a chill go down his spine since Lord Varys at least had eyes and ears everywhere. Everyone knew that their secrets rarely stayed secret for long whenever one of his 'little birds' were moving about in full sight of everyone, yet unnoticed all the same. He'd been too distracted by Vergil's performance to have paid the two men any mind, and they'd been present since they were part of the Small Council and thus needed to stay informed of the goings on in court, but now Tommen wished he had looked their way because he might've seen something. Gleaned some kind of clue about what they might have planned now that Tommen had…made himself visible. As for Petyr Baelish, nicknamed Littlefinger, the man was…kind enough the few times Tommen had had to speak to the tall, thin man in question, but something about him had never sat well with Tommen long before he'd gotten Talented. Now he wondered what he might've 'seen' all the more intensely now that he had reason to worry what Lord Baelish might do.

Silver Tier rolls

[Hawkeye Gough]

|Rare Familiar|

Addendum, mini-Grace, but because of his massive size, Hawkeye Gough has been given an ability to change his size. That way he can actually navigate the narrow halls of the Red Keep, let alone anywhere else.

A Giant…he had a Giant that could've come right from Beyond the Wall far to the North of here. Tommen nearly fell into the seat by his room's small dining table as the implications hit him like a mail fist to the face. He'd wanted a Familiar for his sister, but he hadn't been expecting this! That said, from what the message said, this…Hawkeye Gough sounded like a kind, honorable man. He didn't know who or what the Four Knights of Gwyn were, or this God of Sunlight, but his being able to take down dragons despite his blindness? And the fact he was apparently wise and intelligent if a bit reckless? He was practically perfect to protect his sister! The only problem is that Tommen had no idea how he was going to hide a Giant, even one able to apparently change his size at will. A blind Giant at that no less!

He'd…worry about that later.

[Holy Cow]

|Common Familiar|

"...What?" Was all Tommen could think to say after reading this upon ripping the second of his Silver Tickets in half. "Just…what?" He asked again, feeling oddly cheated since he'd just gone from obtaining a perfect guardian for his sister to…a cow. Apparently a holy cow, but…still a cow. He thought about it for a few moments though, and something slowly began to dawn on him. If this…cow, was anything like all the other things he'd gotten since this began, then her milk might very well make any efforts he made to physically improve himself that much more quickly. He just had to hope the kitchen staff weren't told to butcher his new cow, albeit once he figured out how he was going to sneak her into the castle stables without anyone asking any questions he couldn't answer. On top of that, he couldn't even begin to think of a way to explain why her milk was better than anything they currently got from their far more mundane cows. Still…he'd think of something later, probably around the same time he figured out what he was doing with Hawkeye Gough.

Gold Tier rolls

[Nakiri]

|Uncommon Trait|

"...I don't know how to feel about this." He admitted after taking a moment to process what he'd just read. There was little chance that he'd end up in a position to be allowed anywhere near the kitchens unless he was trying to sneak out sweets or something so being able to learn how to cook quickly didn't…seem all that useful to him. But then he remembered something from his history lessons, that being the amount of nobles and even a few kings had been killed through poison. If the God Tongue was half as good as it appeared, this could very well save his life one day. That said, he wondered if he'd be able to eat like he normally did if he came across poorly prepared food or something. While wasting food wasn't really a problem for them given they were in charge of the entirety of the Seven Kingdoms, Tommen didn't like the thought of throwing something away because he couldn't force himself to eat it. Even so, he shrugged, accepted it, and moved on. Or at least he would've, but then he saw the last Gold Ticket was another Advantageous one. He ripped it all the same, but he wondered why he'd been given another choice Ticket as he'd been since the achievements didn't seem all that impressive to him.

[Power Pole]

|Rare Item|

Dragon Ball - An incredibly durable Bo Staff wielded by Son Goku(The Saiyan, not the god), that allows the user to freely extend its length by expending their energy.

[Adept Savoir Faire]

|Rare Skill|

He frowned at both choices, unsure what to think of either of them. On the one hand, the Power Pole sounded like a neat weapon in theory. He wasn't a fighter though, and he likely never would be unless of course he was given little choice in the matter. He could give it to Vergil, he'd probably even make great use of it, but…the fact it needed energy to use wasn't something Tommen was sure Vergil would appreciate so it felt like the Power Pole would just end gathering dust.

Adept Savoir Faire…he didn't even know how to begin to sound that out, let alone read it, but the increase in his outward composure sounded…useful. Even before his recent changes, Tommen knew how the Game was played. His mother did it plenty after all, but he wasn't nearly that confident, not like she was. Then again, she probably kept up a mask for him too so he wouldn't be worried about anything that might happen between the other nobles. To put it simply, he'd already begun to understand that appearances mattered more than the truth, and now? Now he knew that with far greater certainty, and…he honestly didn't like it. Even so, Tommen chose the latter option, and got up from his table before moving to the oval shaped mirror that was near his closet sized privy. He hadn't really looked himself over since this began, and well…Tommen couldn't help but be curious now that he'd changed a fair bit already if only on the inside.

Tommen frowned again since he didn't look any different even though he'd been expecting as much. He still had a round, slightly chubby face, a head full of short, light brown hair that would eventually turn as blonde as the rest of his family's, and kind emerald green eyes. He was also still short, a bit rotund if only because he hadn't lost his baby fat just yet, and well…it was no wonder people often said he was cute if nothing else. He didn't see how he was more alluring according to the Brand however, or why women were…so interested in him now. Even so, he also didn't dwell on it too much since today had already been a lot and the day wasn't over yet. He still needed to figure out what he was going to do about Hawkeye Gough, let alone his Holy Cow.

He needed to talk to Vergil, see if maybe he had an idea or two.

=========

Chapter 2 perks

Silver Tier rolls

[Hawkeye Gough]

|Rare Familiar|

[Holy Cow]

|Common Familiar|

Gold Tier rolls

[Nakiri]

|Uncommon Trait|

[Power Pole]

|Rare Item|

Dragon Ball - An incredibly durable Bo Staff wielded by Son Goku(The Saiyan, not the god), that allows the user to freely extend its length by expending their energy.

[Adept Savoir Faire]

|Rare Skill|

========

End Notes: …The Chaos Gacha is laughing at me, I swear to the Seven and the Old Gods alike because the very first roll I did, I got Hawkeye Gough from the first Dark Souls. Yeah…a giant of an honorable knight that can shoot immortal, stone-scaled dragons out of the sky despite being blind as a bat. Daenerys would be wise to stay in Essos because Gough would use her three dragons as target practice. All in all though, I think this turned out alright overall. Still, your thoughts, criticisms, etc, are as ever appreciated folks. For now, take care, stay safe, and I'll see you soon. Last edited: Today at 3:22 AM Like Quote ReplyReport Reactions:ELS713, 00sidney00, SwordBearer and 261 others

Chapter 1729 - bbb