The fifth day in King's Landing began with a loud announcement that echoed through the Red Keep.
Trumpets sounded from the outer walls as heralds rode through the courtyards. King Robert had officially declared the Tourney of the Hand — a grand tournament to honor Ned Stark's appointment. Jousts, melees, and archery contests would be held in three days' time.
The news spread like wildfire. Servants buzzed with excitement, lords and knights began sharpening their lances and polishing their armor, and the entire city seemed to come alive with anticipation.
Ethan stood in the training yard, wiping sweat from his brow after another intense morning session. Robb was beside him, breathing heavily.
"A tourney," Robb said with a grin. "Finally something fun in this cursed city."
Jon, who had been watching from the side, shook his head. "Tourneys are dangerous. One wrong tilt and you're dead."
Ethan remained quiet. He knew what this tourney meant in the original story — the beginning of many tragedies. But he also saw opportunity.
Ser Rodrik approached them. "Lord Stark wants northern men to represent him well. Some of you will compete. Ethan, you're strong enough now to enter the melee if you wish."
Ethan nodded. "I'll think about it, ser."
Midday – Tower of the Hand
Ned Stark was clearly unhappy about the tourney. He sat at the head of the table during lunch, frowning.
"I have no time for games," he said gruffly. "But the king insists. Robb, you may joust if you wish. Ethan… you may enter the melee."
Ethan bowed his head. "Thank you, my lord."
Sansa sat across the table, stealing glances at him whenever her mother wasn't looking. Her eyes were bright with a mixture of worry and pride.
After the meal, she found him in the corridor.
"You're really going to fight?" she asked softly, pulling him into a quiet alcove.
"I need to prove myself," Ethan replied. "If I do well, it might help me gain a better position here."
Sansa bit her lip. "I hate the thought of you getting hurt… but I also want to see you win." She stepped closer, her voice dropping to a whisper. "I'll be watching from the stands. Promise me you'll be careful."
"I promise."
She rose on her toes and kissed him — slow, warm, and full of unspoken feelings. Her hands rested on his chest as the kiss deepened. Ethan held her gently, one hand on her lower back. Sansa sighed softly into his mouth when he pulled her closer, their bodies pressing together.
The kiss grew more heated. Sansa's fingers curled into his tunic as she allowed his hand to slide down to her hip, gripping her gently. She trembled but didn't pull away.
When they separated, her cheeks were flushed and her breathing unsteady.
"After the tourney…" she whispered, eyes shy but determined, "maybe we can find a safer place. Just for us."
Ethan's heart raced. "I'd like that."
[Sansa Stark Favorability: 91/100 (Deep Romantic Love + Physical Desire)]
Afternoon – Training Grounds
The yard was much busier now. Knights from all over the realm had begun practicing for the tourney. Ethan joined the melee training group.
He fought hard, using the new footwork he had learned. He managed to defeat two lesser knights and lasted longer than expected against a veteran from the Reach. His body was improving steadily, but he was still far from the level of seasoned warriors.
Jaime Lannister watched from the sidelines again. When Ethan finished, the Kingslayer approached.
"You're entering the melee?" Jaime asked, sounding mildly impressed.
"Yes, ser."
Jaime smirked. "Try not to die too quickly. It would be a shame."
[Favorability with Jaime Lannister: 31/100 (Growing Respect)]
Evening – Royal Gardens
While walking back to the Tower of the Hand, Ethan once again crossed paths with Margaery Tyrell. This time she was sitting on a stone bench beside a fountain, reading a book. She looked up and smiled when she saw him.
"Ethan Snow," she said warmly. "Come sit with me for a moment."
He hesitated, then sat a respectful distance away.
Margaery closed her book. "I hear you're entering the melee. How brave. Most bastards avoid such public displays."
"I need to prove my worth," Ethan said honestly.
Margaery studied him with those intelligent brown eyes. "And what is it you truly want, Ethan Snow? Gold? A title? Or something… more personal?"
Her tone was light, but there was real curiosity behind it. She leaned forward slightly, the scent of roses reaching him.
Ethan met her gaze. "I want to protect the people I care about. And build a future worth having."
Margaery smiled — a genuine, beautiful smile. "A rare answer in this city." She reached out and lightly touched his wrist for a moment. "I look forward to watching you in the tourney. Perhaps we can speak again afterward… in private."
[Margaery Tyrell Favorability: 47/100 (Strong Romantic Interest)]
She stood gracefully and left, leaving Ethan with racing thoughts.
Night – Ethan's Room
Sansa visited him again after midnight. This time she stayed longer.
She wore only her nightgown and robe. The moment the door was barred, she kissed him with clear hunger. They moved to the bed and lay together, bodies pressed close. Sansa allowed his hands to explore more freely tonight — over her nightgown, tracing her curves, gently cupping her breasts. She gasped and shivered at his touch, pressing herself harder against him.
"Touch me," she whispered, voice trembling with both nerves and desire.
Ethan was careful and gentle. He caressed her body with respect, kissing her neck and collarbone while his hand moved slowly. Sansa moaned softly, burying her face in his shoulder as pleasure built. She didn't reach her peak tonight, but she came very close, breathing heavily and clinging to him.
When they finally calmed down, she lay curled against his chest.
"I've never felt like this before," she whispered. "You make me feel… alive."
Ethan stroked her hair. "You're safe with me, Sansa. Always."
She fell asleep in his arms for nearly an hour before she had to sneak back to her chambers.
[Sansa Stark Favorability: 94/100 (Borderline Love)]
Late Night
Ethan opened the system after she left.
He had earned enough points to buy a new item:
[Minor Strength Enhancement Potion purchased – 450 SP]
He drank it slowly. Warmth spread through his muscles.
Strength: 27
Small. Controlled. Earned.
A new notification appeared:
[Tourney of the Hand Quest Activated] Objective: Perform well in the Melee. Reward: 2500 EXP + Increased Reputation + Mystery Box
Ethan looked out at the dark city, the Red Keep looming around him.
The tourney was coming.
Danger was coming.
But so was his chance to rise.
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