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The Stark by Dscot

I do not own this story.

CH9

It had taken me eight arduous months to meticulously assign the rightful lords to the newly built castles, near the recently constructed canal. With the invaluable assistance of my mother, as well as administrators who I assigned to a small advisory council. We delved into the extensive pool of noble candidates - second and third sons, as well as daughters - hailing from loyal houses.

The task at hand demanded utmost caution and discernment in the selection of individuals to be assigned, as the newly built canal held the potential to bestow immense wealth upon those entrusted with its Lordship. It was important to identify and appoint only the most loyal men and women, ensuring that their newfound prosperity would not incite rebellion or lead to a misuse of power.

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I had mustered the young men and women, plucked from families burdened by the weight of poverty, and the orphaned children forsaken by fate's cruel hand, from all corners of the North. Each day, within the sacred grove of the godswoods, they congregated under watchful eye. Their education surpassed the realms of mere scholarly pursuits ensuring that they received an education that extended beyond mere academics. Their minds were enriched with the teachings of history, literature, and the arts, but I also had them trained in the basic art of combat and tactics, instilling them with loyalty to the Starks of Winterfell. Winterfell became more than just a refuge; it became a sanctuary where these young souls would learn the skills that would support the North in times of both peace and turmoil. I wish to provide them with the skills to defend our homeland and contribute to the growth of my industrial system. This first generation of my new order was guided by the firm yet compassionate hands of knowledgeable men and women from different backgrounds throughout the north. Drawing upon the expertise of trainers and educators from Essos, whom I had brought back to assist in this endeavor, I sought to impart knowledge and skills. I had their potential nurtured and molded them into knowledgeable workers. Through education and compassionate guidance, we paved the path towards empowerment and growth, forever changing the trajectory of their lives and the future of the North.

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What I wasn't sure about was that I also collected some of my younger siblings. I only accepted the orphan bastard children of my late father. Surprisingly, my mother did not hold any resentment towards the idea; she seemed to be agreeable and welcomed them into our home in Winterfell. I always knew that my mother had strong feelings for my father, no matter how often he had hurt her, and was unfaithful towards her. Taking in these vulnerable children was a testament to her strength of character. I also got the feeling as well that my mother was happy to have children around her that she could raise. Since I wasn't an ordinary child. I didn't need constant supervision or assistance that children need, to grow up strong and healthy. Among my bastard siblings, the oldest was six named days and the youngest was a little more than three named days. I had four raven-haired younger sisters and the two youngest siblings were my brothers. all bearing the signature dark locks inherited from our father. Yet, their eyes told a different story, each reflecting a unique shade passed down from their respective mothers. Though they lacked the Stark name, they were fully of first men descent. I was determined to unite our family under the Stark banner, so I made a decision. If they proved themselves capable, and confident. I would legitimize them as true Starks. Providing them with tutors that would guide them through the intricacies of mathematics and sciences through the years. I urged them to dive deep into the realms of knowledge, honing their minds to become astute strategists and shrewd tacticians. But it was not solely the realm of the intellect that I wish them to attend to; for I also deemed it essential to acquaint them with the arts of combat and castle management, instilling within them the necessary skills to ensure success in their future responsibilities. Through endless years of study, practice, and guidance, my siblings blossomed into formidable individuals. Determined to elevate their status and ensure their loyalty, I hatched a plan. Through the use of magic and careful manipulation, I bestowed upon them each a necklace infused with powerful enchantments, gradually molding their minds as they grow to release any seeds of envy or jealousy towards me and replace them with unwavering loyalty and devoted reverence.

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I commanded my golems, with their incredible strength and precision, to engage in the mass production of longbows adorned with the proud emblem of House Stark. I coordinated their distribution across the Stark lands. I insured that every individual over the age of 10 received one, no matter their gender. Proclaiming a decree, I ordered that every able-bodied person in my lands should dedicate at least two hours each week to honing their archery skills, harnessing the power and precision of the bow. In an even bolder edict, I decreed that every able-bodied person from the vast reaches of the Stark territories, must take half a day every month, to the pursuit of mastering the art of the long spear, diligently practicing their techniques on sturdy wooden dummies. This mandate would fortify our defenses and prepare us against any potential threats. As well as inspiring a sense of unity and pride within our land.

A year before the canal was completed, I embarked on a mission to introduce the game of lacrosse to every community and village in the Stark lands. Providing equipment to every large village and town. Recognizing the immense value of this sport, I believed it had the power to teach the small folk important lessons in tactics and strategy. I was inspired by the natives from the Americas, who I believed, hopefully correctly, had used lacrosse to train their warriors to function as a cohesive unit and foster camaraderie among the youth. I set out to spread the knowledge and passion for this game. As I embarked on my mission to bring my communities together, I was determined to not only find passionate individuals but also to establish a regular schedule for games between villages. After months of practice, I successfully gathered a group of dedicated individuals who were willing to set up and organize these games at least twice a month. To celebrate the spirit of competition, I constructed a grand stadium outside of winter town, where the two teams would meet every year for the championship, captivating the crowds with their skills. I introduced a rewarding system that will have villagers exhilarated and brimming with excitement. With each team that fought their way to the Winter town Stadium championship, their home village would be bestowed with a gift of 20 gold coins. The champions who emerged victorious, would receive a reward of 6 gold coins per player, while an additional 12 gold coins would grace the winning town. Even the gallant losers were not left empty-handed, earning two gold coins per player.

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In a tedious process, but my mother and I were determined to find the perfect group of men to serve as my loyal bodyguards and companions. We scoured through countless applications and conducted multiple rounds of interviews, searching for individuals who not only possessed the necessary skills but also shared a favorable attitude towards magic. Magic will always be a significant part of my life. It was an art I had honed and refined over the years, and now, it was time to share my abilities with those who would be by my side at all times. After weeks of meticulous screening, we finally narrowed down our choices to fifty candidates. They were a diverse group, but each one a devoted follower of the old gods. With their unwavering faith and belief in the supernatural, I devised a plan to make them believe that I was chosen by the old gods. It was a bold move, but it worked. As the leader of this exceptional group, I could feel their loyalty and dedication radiating from each individual. They brought their unique strengths and experiences to the table.

With the support of my mother and my own determination, I set out to solidify the loyalty and commitment of my chosen companions. Seeking guidance from the master of arms of Winterfell, as well as the expertise of skilled scholars and soldiers brought from Essos by Lord Wyman Manderly, we delved into the depths of training and education. Together, we transformed into a formidable force of elite warriors, proficient in a wide range of combat techniques. But my ambitions did not stop there. We delved further into the realm of knowledge, acquiring expertise in diplomacy, strategy, and even healing. This comprehensive training ensured that success would be mine in every endeavor, and to solidify the bond between us, I turned to the potent magic of enchantment. Through this powerful and lasting enchantment, their loyalty to me became unbreakable.

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Towards the end of the construction of the canals and the Bay at Moat Cailin's port, town of Ayra. Named after my great grandmother, my grandmother's mother Arya Flint. I had allocated the majority of the golems To start the creation of a road between Wintertown and Torrhen's Square. I planned and managed the construction of a canal that would unite these two towns. Additionally, I envisioned another canal that would gracefully merge with Lyarra Bay, ensuring a smooth flow of trade and commerce. Though shallow, I ensured these canals were deep enough to accommodate flat river boats, enabling the transportation of goods. Even in the harshest of winters, I devised a solution, allowing sleighs to glide effortlessly over the frozen rivers, maintaining uninterrupted transportation.

Recognizing the significance of efficient transportation. I commissioned the construction of multiple roads to enhance connectivity within the North. Roads were laid from the bustling White Harbor to Winterfell, ensuring smooth passage for traders and travelers, another road emerged, forging a direct route from Torrhen's Square to Winterfell. Not to overlook the importance of the Rillseat where my grandfather resides. I directed the development of a road connecting it to Winterfell, enabling swift travel. These roads with the help of the canals will become the lifelines of northern commerce. The roads were designed, with great attention paid to both functionality and security. My blueprints ensured that a gentle slope was incorporated into the construction, allowing water to naturally flow away from the center of the road and into well-placed gutters. This design prevented any potential waterlogging issues and ensured that the road remained in excellent condition throughout the year. With a width of three meters, these roadways provided ample space for a variety of travelers, including pedestrians, wagons, and horses. However, I was not only concerned with ease of movement but also with the safety of those using the road. To enhance security, grasslands will be maintained on each side of the road, spanning approximately 18 meters. Additionally, at the edge of each grassland, a three-meter ditch was strategically constructed to deter any possible ambushes or unauthorized access by other vehicles or horses. From the northern part of Lyarra Bay, I embarked on an ambitious endeavor - the construction of a grand road with wolf patterns, the road will be 12 meters wide, that would stretch all the way to the stronghold of Winterfell. I ensured that this road would not only connect distant lands, but also provide comfort and convenience for future towns along its path. At every 25 miles, carefully-designed rest stops were constructed, offering weary travelers a place to rest, refuel, and recharge for their onward journey. Furthermore, I foresaw the importance of safety and security, and thus had a clearing carved out to accommodate guard posts every 5 miles, fortifying the road against any potential threats. I had named this pathway of the Starks. Decided in the future to have commissioned statues laid out on the road, of every lord that ruled the north on one side and their mother on the other side.

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One of my biggest desires was to repair the damages that were done to the north by Brandon the burner. In my vision for the future, I yearn for the north to emerge as a formidable leader in shipbuilding. I dream of a region bustling with activity, where ships are crafted with utmost precision and expertise. To support this dream, I have established three drydocks near the canal that leads into Lyanna's bay. These drydocks serve as havens for damaged ships, providing them with the necessary repairs and restoration they require. Harnessing the power of water wheels, I had powered forges, infusing them with the energy needed to mold and shape the finest metals. Additionally, a water power sawmill stands tall, this mill, with its unyielding power, is designed to effortlessly cut through timber, its echoes resonating with a bold tone that reverberates throughout the region.

I forged and crafted two personal vessels. Combining the strength of steel and the malleability of wood, these ships were a marvel to behold. But it was not just the craftsmanship that made them extraordinary. Each ship had a crew that I had personally trained in the art of naval warfare, instilling in them unwavering loyalty and deep respect. Together, we honed our skills, pushing the boundaries of our abilities through rigorous drills on the unpredictable waters of the Long Lake. As if that wasn't enough, I had also infused my ships with the power of ancient runes. Carved with intricate precision, these runes enhanced the durability of the vessels and imbued them with a ferocious energy. To further strengthen the enchantments, I captured ironborn and wildling raiders, utilizing their blood and life force to empower the runes etched upon the hulls of our ships. On my main ship, I had crafted magically powered cannons. With ingenuity and immense effort, I placed three cannons facing forward, ready to unleash their devastating power upon any foe that dared cross our path. But my ingenuity did not stop there; I also equipped the ship with three cannons at the rear, designed as motors to swivel around, allowing us to swiftly maneuver and strike from unexpected angles. And as if this weren't enough, I adorned each broadside of the ship with a formidable array of ten cannons, With these cannons at my disposal, the enemy shall tremble in the face of my might.

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While my mega-greenhouses were still being constructed. I decided to work on and distribute new farming techniques and newly created equipment. Winterfell's lands were fertile but the crops were scarce. I had a group of local farmers brought together to learn a new method of farming. With hopes of yielding more crops and ensuring sustainability for years to come, I introduced them to the concept of the four crop rotation. This technique involved dividing a field into four sections, each dedicated to a specific crop. The sequence began with wheat, followed by turnips, then barley, and finally clover. This rotation included both a fodder crop and a grazing crop, allowing livestock to be bred year-round. The implementation of the four-field crop rotation will become my pivotal development in the agricultural revolution, transforming the way farmers cultivated their land. With a firm understanding that, initially, we would experience a reduced yield in the first two harvesting cycles. I believed that this temporary setback would be outweighed by the ultimate goal of producing an abundance of food. This new approach to agriculture, and then with my soon to be finished construction of my futuristic greenhouses, held the promise of revolutionizing our food production to make the north independent, and even having an extra surplus to be able to sell. Another major project was having steel ingots made with magically built industrial blast furnaces. With their fiery cores, we produce an abundance of steel, surpassing the rest of Westeros combined in a mere two months, what they couldn't accomplish in an entire year. Alongside these groundbreaking innovations in steel manufacturing, was the sight of countless water wheels adorning the newly built canals located near the hot springs so they will still be functional even during winter time. Tirelessly they churn and spin, their force harnessed to aid in my future textile manufacturing endeavors. One of the most significant tasks I undertook was the strategic placement of granite rocks near every major town and village in Stark and allied lands. These rocks possessed an enchantment that emitted powerful waves, enhancing the fertility of the soil and, remarkably, the women in those regions. The magic within these stones contributed to repairing and maintaining the health and safety of women during childbirth. Previously, the survival rate was uncertain, but now, there was a remarkable 70% chance of successful childbirth without complications and a staggering 90% chance of survival. As a result, within the nine years leading up to the Greyjoy Rebellion, the population in the North, especially in Stark territory, experienced a tremendous boom. The Stark lands, already known for their high population, now housed more than half of the entire Northern population.

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Seven years had passed since the completion of the grand canal, a monumental feat that connected the vast seas. It has taken me longer than I expected to carve runes along the bottom of the canal. Which delayed my opening of the waterway. The Lords, having been assigned to govern these newly developed lands, had settled into their castles, strategically positioned along the canal's banks. It was a year since I had dismantled the magic that had kept the construction hidden from the curious eye. With the canal now ready to start its operation, it was time to showcase its magnificence to the world. Invitations were sent far and wide, reaching every inland kingdom and even the free cities of Essos. A special invitation was extended to the city of Braavos, known for its mastery of trade and commerce. The stage was set for a grand event, where the realms would gather to witness the marvels of the canal.

This will be the first look anyone will have of the northern realm since I have taken over as the ruler. With the help of my companions, I have established an extensive spy network, spanning far and wide. With a mixture of magic and spy craft, we have tirelessly worked to root out any infiltrators. No longer shall the shadows hold secrets against us, for we have honed our skills to perfection. I had established my version of mall council besides the advisory committee. Organizations are designed and built to work together with the council made of my companions. I had 12 seats in my council.

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Technically, I had only one seat reserved for Jeor Mormont, the Minister of Defense, in my council. However, recognizing the breadth and complexity of the responsibilities that came with this crucial role, I decided to assign him a couple of skilled and knowledgeable advisors. These advisors would serve as the pillars of expertise, ensuring that no aspect of our nation's security was overlooked or neglected. First advisor Wylis Manderly was entrusted with the intricate matters concerning our naval forces, overseeing their operations and strategic planning. Another advisor Theon Snow took charge of our ground forces, crafting robust defense strategies and ensuring their readiness.

I held two seats dedicated to advisors for intelligence - one for domestic affairs and the other for foreign affairs. These positions were of importance, demanding individuals who possessed exceptional knowledge and strategic thinking. The advisors selected to occupy these seats were not mere figureheads, but rather the backbone of our decision-making process;they constantly monitored and evaluated the complexities of our internal and external landscapes. In the realm of currency management, I appointed two ministers, each with distinct responsibilities that complemented one another. The first minister, Wendel Manderly, was entrusted with the crucial task of budgeting and monitoring expenditure, ensuring a prudent allocation of resources within the realm. This minister scrutinized every transaction, tracking not only what was being spent but also what had been expended by other lords in the north. This meticulous record-keeping and shrewd financial insights laid the foundation for a fiscally responsible kingdom. The second minister Helman Tallhart, took charge of overseeing the inflow of resources into our realm. This minister deftly handled the intricate web of trade, meticulously tracking the origins and destinations of our imports and exports. They also took it upon themselves to restructure and refine the tax collection system, ensuring its efficiency and fairness. Since the north was so vast and required efficient management, I devised a plan to divide it into three distinct segments, with each segment having its designated seat assigned to a minister of interior. These ministers held the crucial responsibility of ensuring the smooth functioning of their respective regions. Their duties encompassed overseeing the maintenance of infrastructure such as the roads and canal, facilitating trade activities, and upholding law and order by diligently enforcing regulations and reducing crime levels. Additionally, it was their duty to closely monitor the actions of the Lords within my domain, ensuring their compliance with the laws I had established. The last two seats of my council were assigned to none other than my mother and me, My mother, held the position of Stark's Advisor. This role was akin to that of the Hand of the King in the small council. Making her my right hand. Not only was she the leader of the advisory council, but she was also second in charge of the Weirwood Council. She effortlessly ensured that the two councils worked in perfect harmony. The advisory council served as a vital ministry council, providing valuable information and resources to support the decisions of the Weirwood Council.

The northern lords, accompanied by their loyal retinues, filled the halls of Winterfell, after all the Lords had arrived the next day we began our journey. As we made our way down the newly constructed Pathway of the Starks, the atmosphere was electric with excitement and anticipation. By my side, rode my mother, as well as my trusted companions and council. The Stark household guards, donned in formidable steel armor adorned with the striking image of a howling dire wolf, exuded an aura of power. Each soldier was equipped with the finest steel weaponry. Even our Stark horses were not spared, as they too were adorned in the finest steel armor, exuding a commanding presence. The construction of the road impressed even the most discerning of eyes with its impeccable quality and thoughtful design. As onlookers observed the smooth, sturdy surface, they marveled at its durability, confident that it could withstand the test of time. But what truly caught their attention was the ingenious design to handle water flow. The design of the road had implemented a system that allowed water to effortlessly escape, preventing any potential damage. The defense measures were equally impressive, with 18 meter flat grasslands flanking the road on either side, acting as a protective barrier. And at the end of these grasslands, a meticulously crafted ditch further ensured the road's safety. The overall effect was striking, leaving observers in awe of the road's presence. The construction of the roads in the north puts the Kings Road, created by Jaehaerys I, to shame. The northern Lords, filled with an overwhelming sense of pride, muses out loud about how the Targaryens were astounded by a mere dirt road. Starks had gone above and beyond, building a paved road that was not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. The elegant designs of wolves, intricately patterned into the road. With a bolder tone, the northern Lord speculated on the craftsmanship, wondering why they did not hear of this project. It was a testament to the resourcefulness of the north, an inverted flex of power that showcased their ability to create something magnificent. As they rode along the newly paved road, the northern Lords fluctuated between a deep sense of amazement and gratitude towards those who had toiled to transform the rugged terrain into a work of art and a surge of pride for Prince Stark. As we ventured further on our journey, statues began to emerge on the horizon. These statues, visible from a distance, stood proudly and will be testament to the grandeur of the North. As we approached two statues became clearer. Crafted meticulously from shimmering obsidian fused with stainless steel for stability. The obsidian used for these masterpieces was sourced from the surrounding hills of Winterfell. Positioned on the right side of the road, a striking statue depicted my mother, forever immortalized in stone. On the opposite side, a statue of myself stood tall, a symbol of my own legacy. Each statue boasted an impressive height, measuring 8 meters from head to toe, firmly anchored to a base standing at 2 1/2 meters. With a sense of pride, I shared my future plans to expand this collection, envisioning statues of every Lord who had ruled the North on one side, and a tribute to their mother on the other.

I have created guard towers every 5 miles, a feat that caught the Lord's attention. As they stopped and marveled at the first two towers, their eyes widened in awe. The towers are a magnificent sight, with their sturdy granite stone bases that stood four meters tall, seamlessly transitioning into towering wooden structures that reached a height of 9 meters in all. Encircling each tower was a formidable wooden wall, standing at 4 meters. It was a fortress, a stronghold for the guards and at least two mounts. The Lords ventured inside, visiting the guard station and taking a tour around the tower. They admired the craftsmanship and durability of the construction which left them impressed.

As we journeyed, we stopped at every inn along the way, these inns and guard towers were newly constructed. The Lord and their retinues, couldn't help but marvel at the grandeur of the buildings and the efficiency of the guard stations. Each establishment showcasing the advancements made in architecture and infrastructure. Moreover, scattered nearby were small villages that had sprung up, seemingly thriving alongside these remarkable inns. It was a sight to behold, a testament to my vision, who had created these opportunities. As we rode down the road, the road started to parallel the canal until it flowed into Lyarra's Bay. I have seen this site multiple times but I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. The canal, stretching from both sides of the bay as far as I could see, was a testament to the power and ingenuity of House Stark. It had taken years of planning, hard work, and coordination to complete this ambitious project. I enjoyed the northern Lords' reaction when we arrived at Lyarra Bay. They could see port Arya and Moat Cailin in the distance. I enjoyed watching their reaction to see the rebuilt and improved Moat Cailin, alongside the bustling port town of Arya, named after my great grandmother Arya Flit, was a sight to behold. The lords of the north, usually stoic and reserved, were visibly impressed by the sight before them. They marveled at the engineering marvel that lay before them, the sheer magnitude of the canal's construction. Their questions filled the air, curiosity evident in their voices. "Who built this magnificent canal?" Lord Karstark asked, his eyes scanning the length of the waterway. I smiled, choosing my words carefully. "The Stark men are skilled in many things, my lord. Construction and engineering are no exception." Lord Umber, known for his straightforward nature, grunted. "But how did they manage to keep it a secret? Surely such an undertaking required a grand workforce." I glanced at him, a twinkle in my eye. "The North is vast, my lord. There are many secrets hidden within its borders. Some things are best left to the imagination." The lords exchanged glances, their curiosity piqued. They understood the unspoken message - that House Stark had resources, knowledge, and abilities beyond what they had previously imagined. The mysteries of the canal and the bay only served to deepen their respect for my house and its capabilities. As we continued our journey, I shared my plans for each lord's land, offering suggestions for improvements and increased income. The lords listened attentively, realizing that the canal held not only aesthetic beauty but also economic potential. The once barren fields of the Stark lands, now flourished with thriving crops, a testament to the improvements in agriculture and animal husbandry. I didn't need to convince the Lords to listen and follow my instructions to improve their lands. The tour proceeded smoothly, and the lords of the north left with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. They had seen firsthand what could be achieved with vision, hard work, and the support of House Stark. And so, as I bid farewell to each lord, I couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. The canal had served its purpose, not only as a symbol of House Stark's power but also as a catalyst for change and progress in the north. In the back of my mind, I secretly hoped that the mysteries surrounding its construction would forever remain a testament to the greatness of House Stark.