Chapter 24

Lannisport, Westerlands

"Good to see you back, Tyrion."

He heard his Uncle Kevan's voice greeting him at the docks as he stepped down.

"Uncle, good to see you too. Though I must admit, I'm surprised to find you here. I expected a cold reception here by our cousins of Lannisport."

Tyrion looked around at Lannisport. The city still seemed somewhat empty compared to the old times. Many of the shops, manors, and houses were still empty.

"How was the North?" Kevan asked as they began walking into the city from the docks.

"Excellent, though dreary for some parts. Whoever thinks that the Northmen are nothing more than savages is dead wrong. A bit wild and boisterous, yes, but they have big hearts" Tyrion said. "I think I'll rest for a day and head to Casterly Rock tomorrow to report to my father."

"Well, you are in luck. Tywin is here, along with most of the family." Kevan said.

"Father is here? Why?" Tyrion asked, surprised.

"Daven was wedded two days ago. So most of us are still here." Kevan explained.

Tyrion liked his distant cousin Daven. He, along with his uncles Kevan, Tygett, Gerion, Aunt Genna, and his brother Jaime, were the few in the family who were kind to him. So Tyrion was determined to give Daven a good gift. "Good for him. He's a good man. By the way, who is his bride?"

"Lana Oakheart. Though Tywin wanted a match with the Rowans of Goldengrove, they did not find the proposal worthy of them." Kevan said.

"Ah, snubbed, were we?" Tyrion said with a smirk.

"Now go and rest. Tywin will see you after noon." Kevan added.

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"This is a really good sword and pretty well balanced too. And the red-colored hilt is a nice touch, signifying our house colors." Daven said as he swung one of the swords from the pile.

All the weapons and goods Tyrion had brought were assembled in the large courtyard. Literally thousands of swords, shields, spears, etc.—all brought by him. All of them were painted with red to represent the Lannisters.

"Better than what we make," Tygett added.

Tyrion was sure his father threw a dirty look at Tygett, who remained nonplussed. The relationship between the two brothers had always been stormy.

"What are those?" Stafford Lannister asked, looking at many barrels and sacks kept aside.

"Many of you must be familiar with vodka. These barrels contain new liquor varieties from the North—whiskey, scotch, cider, and rum. Different varieties, from the poor smallfolk to the rich lords. And those bags contain tea. Not the same stuff we get from the Reach. Very strong and flavored." Tyrion explained.

"Truly? I am already content with the vodka. This new stuff you brought must be surely worthy if you speak so highly of it." Tygett Lannister said as he started to pour himself a drink from one of the barrels. After taking a generous gulp, he announced, "And I stand corrected."

"I had personally tasted or tested all the things I brought," Tyrion assured them, though he cringed internally at those words. Tywin had sent him North to find out about the North's current strength, their army, and most importantly, to ascertain Aryan Stark's plans. But by the time he reached the North, Aryan Stark was away. Still, he went to Winterfell and stayed there. Somehow, he was either drunk or incapacitated most of the time and couldn't spend much of his time on his father's tasks. He had tried his best to get the High Steward, Jaqen, to talk in the rare moments he was sober enough but failed. Jaqen proved to be a man of few words.

"So why did you bring them here?" Kevan asked, indicating the goods. "I hope you didn't spend the money Tywin gave you for buying weapons on these drinks."

"No. Of course not, Uncle. These are complementary gifts for the large purchase we made. The Northerners had not yet started selling these items in Westeros, but I found that these are very good materials for trade. And as Lannisport is seeing a slowdown in recent years, I thought we could capitalize on these goods before anyone else." Tyrion explained his genius plan—or so he thought. He didn't know he had been manipulated from the start to make this plan.

"You cannot just assume things and make plans on your own without consulting more experienced people like us?" Stafford scolded him.

Tyrion stood there momentarily at a loss for words, but help came from the most unexpected source.

"On the contrary, I agree with what he has done. I think his proposal is sound. It will be a very good idea to boost the trade at Lannisport. Now, since you've claimed yourself as very experienced, why don't you see to it that all the goods are distributed well among the merchants to procure future orders?"

Stafford nodded, gulping nervously. Tyrion felt a small affection for his father that quickly died when he heard Tywin's next words "And you come with me. We need to talk now. Come with Kevan."

"What did you learn about the North?" Tywin asked, without any pleasantries.

Typical Father. No beating around the bush. Tyrion thought as he formulated his thoughts. This was the moment he had dreaded for the past few weeks. He was without any concrete answers, but he couldn't say that to Tywin. So, choosing his words carefully, he said, "When I reached Winterfell, I found that Aryan Stark had already left for Starfall to attend his aunt's wedding. But I was received by the High Steward, Jaqen."

"Only a Steward? For somebody of your stature, there must be some highborn to receive you." Kevan Lannister, the only other occupant besides the father-son duo, said.

"It is fine, Uncle. Aryan Stark's uncles have their own lands to rule, and he is still unmarried. You cannot expect them to leave their duties just to welcome me." Tyrion answered.

"Enough trash talk. What did you learn about the North's power?" Tywin asked impatiently.

"The North had changed. Winterfell itself is the biggest castle I have ever seen, just a bit larger than Moat Cailin. Only Harrenhal is bigger than those two castles. One thing I can assure you is that no army can invade them from the Neck. They will be massacred near the Moat. They have to do it from the coast, which will be very costly."

"Moat Cailin has a history of stopping the Andals when they tried to invade the North. Now that the fortress is rebuilt, the Northerners have secured themselves. Also, Moat Cailin is in the hands of the Cailstarks, so there is no question of treachery." Kevan said.

"Did you talk to the Regent Eddard Stark about the marriage proposal of Cerena and Myrielle?" Kevan asked.

Tyrion answered, "Yes. But he did not look exactly pleased. He just took them and said that they would consider it, but the final decision would be by Aryan Stark himself. Actually, he was sounding hostile for some reason."

"Eddard seems to give his nephew a lot of freedom in making his choices. Foolish if you ask me. Now, what did you learn about their army?" Tywin asked.

'I don't know.' Tyrion screamed in his mind. So, taking a big risk, he lied, which would come back to bite the Lannisters in the ass within a few years. "From what I observed, their army must be about fifty thousand men. I learned that there had been heavy losses in the brief winter immediately after King Robert's Rebellion. The harsh cold claimed many lives. The North bought their full force of thirty thousand against the Ironborn. But with the recent migration of smallfolk to the North, I think the North's army cannot be more than fifty thousand."

"We can handle that. Even if they ally with the Riverlands, we can match them using sellswords." Kevan said. "What about the cities? The North alone has four cities."

Tyrion then explained about Wolfbay, Starkhaven, and Wintertown. He had visited them all except White Harbor. Tyrion explained the governance in the Northern cities. "No man is idle there. If you can't do any work, you cannot live in the city. The people who do not know any kind of work are sent to places where there is some kind of work, mostly construction. We could impose several of their methods to Lannisport."

Tywin listened carefully. Finally, he said, "What I am going to say now should never leave this room. Tyrion, you have proved yourself intelligent enough that I have decided it would be wise if you knew this."

Taken aback by the sudden praise, Tyrion asked, "What is so important?"

"The Lannister mines are going dry." Tywin said.

"What?" Both Tyrion and Kevan asked, surprised.

"In a few years, at most ten years, the mines of Castamere along with ours will be dried." Tywin added.

"So the rumors were true?" Tyrion mused.

"I had made sure that the miners and their families were killed in the mines when I flooded the mines. Still, somehow, the news leaked out." Tywin said, gritting his teeth.

Tyrion winced at Tywin's words. But a small part of him understood his father's actions.

"So we need to find new avenues to maintain our wealth. With the North becoming rich, it is going to be difficult, but still, it must be done. Today, we are in a position where nothing could be done to drag down the North." Tywin said, eyeing both of them.

"What exactly do you mean, brother?" Kevan asked.

"I had been in touch with Roose Bolton about bringing down the Starks in exchange for making the Boltons the next Lord Paramount of the North. Unfortunately, I recently received word that Roose Bolton had been murdered by his own bastard over some issue. And considering that Eddard Cailstark was hostile towards you, I think they have found out about my correspondence with Roose Bolton." Tywin explained.

"Now that's a very big problem. We can never expect any kind of support from them now. In fact, they might even consider us their enemy." Tyrion agreed.

"The Boltons were the only power which could challenge the Starks in the North. Now that they are gone, the Starks would rule supreme. I am worried you are right. First Theomore and now Roose Bolton, whoever assisted us against the North ended up dead one way or the other. Also, their deaths look too natural. They know it." Tywin exclaimed.

"Are you sure they know about your involvement?" Kevan said.

"Eddard Cailstark's behavior towards me and now what father revealed. They know." Tyrion said.

"I cannot do anything against the North for now. At least until Robert Baratheon lives." Tywin said.

"What would you have me do?" Tyrion asked.

Tywin handed him a scroll. "Here's your new appointment."

Tyrion's eyes widened. He was stunned. "What's this?"

"You're now the Mayor of Lannisport." Tywin said.

"What? Mayor?" Tyrion asked. Kevan looked surprised and happy at the same time.

"If the Northerners have Mayor there is no reason we cannot have. Increase the trade and revenue there through whatever means." Tywin ordered.

"Stafford would not like that. He would not like being under Tyrion." Kevan warned.

"Last time I checked Tywin Lannister is the Lord Paramount of Westerlands, not Stafford Lannister. He will do as I say." Tywin thundered.

Gleeful at his new position Tyrion asked, "When would I start Father?"

Giving him a rolled parchment Tywin said, "This contains my orders declaring you as the Mayor of Lannisport, effective from today."

Tyrion took the offered document and looked at Tywin gratefully for the first time.

"Get out of my sight dwarf before I change my mind." Tywin said dismissing him. All his gratefulness dissappeared as he waddled out of the room.

Moat Cailin, The North

Ned lied with his eyes open. Catelyn slept beside him, exhausted from their lovemaking. She looked so beautiful. He had dreaded marrying her during the war, but over time, they had come to love each other.

He had gone over the reports some time ago, sent to him by the High Steward Jaqen, regarding the road construction in the North. It was going well. Ned had always been wary of Jaqen. The foreigner was well aware of everything. Ned was sure that Jaqen was Aryan's spymaster.

How he gained such a loyal spymaster with such extensive reach surprises me. Still, it is helpful, he thought.

Starkhaven was now a fully-fledged city, the biggest in the North and the third-largest city in Westeros. If it grew at the current rate, Starkhaven would soon be the largest city in Westeros in a few decades, Ned mused.

He and Cat used to occasionally take strolls through Starkhaven. Its strategic location in Westeros attracted all kinds of merchants from the Free Cities of Essos. There were varieties of goods and materials which were once never seen in the North. When Aryan had initially suggested the idea almost eight years ago, Eddard was not entirely convinced. The Northerners were always very cautious and frugal with money matters. Still, he took the risk and implemented the project. Now the North was reaping the benefits. Not only had it generated income, but the Northern Canal had also made him rich. Eddard never considered himself very ambitious. He had always wanted a small holdfast for himself and his family. But his nephew had given him something much greater. A fortress and now a big city. Something which seemed to have shut up Hoster Tully for now. The city of Starkhaven was growing day by day. The revenue generated was very high. They had been able to repay the loan taken from the Iron Bank in even less time than stipulated at the time the loan was taken.

One of his biggest headaches was Aryan's marriage. There had been so many marriage offers from within the North, from the other kingdoms, and even from a few rich merchant families from Essos who could give the Lannisters a run for their money. A few months ago, Tyrion Lannister had visited him regarding the trade of weapons from Winterfell. Tyrion had brought marriage proposals for his cousins. Ned immediately wanted to just refuse. He hated the Lannisters. Those bastards were planning with the Boltons to betray the Starks. But, Cat had talked with the dwarf. She diplomatically took the proposal and told Tyrion that they would consider it. Thankfully, Ned did not have to deal with Tyrion for too long. He left for Winterfell within a day. Ned's solar had a large box full of marriage proposals for Aryan. He decided that once Aryan arrived, he would have a talk with his nephew and come to a decision on the future Lady of Winterfell. After all, times had changed, so had the North. The North had grown powerful, so they cannot just settle for nothing less than the best, especially in the case of Aryan's wife. With these thoughts in mind, he drifted off to sleep.

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The Sea Merman, the flagship of the Manderlys, docked in. The Cailstarks were assembled at the docks to receive the travelers. The workers lowered the plank, and as expected, it was Arya who first descended down the ship.

"Father," she exclaimed and ran towards him, hugging him.

Ned smiled and hugged her back. As soon as he released her from his hands, she was engulfed by Cat, who started to fuss over her.

"Oh Arya, I had missed you, my daughter," Cat said, crying.

Ned turned his attention to the others. He saw Ser Rodrick, Ser Brynden, then followed someone.

One boy came behind Ser Rodrick. "My Lord, it feels good to be back. Though I would have preferred to be with Lord Aryan, guarding his back as always," Rodrick said.

"Of course, Ser. But with your new position, you will be quite busy to do that," Eddard told him.

"There is something I have to speak on that matter, but perhaps later," Rodrick said. Then he introduced the boy. "He is Samwell Tarly, heir to Lord Randyll Tarly."

"Heir of a prominent house here. Why?" Catelyn asked in a low voice as she came to stand beside him. She then welcomed the boy.

"Tarly is my new squire. We will be going out soon," the Blackfish announced.

"Father, look what I learned from the Sand Snakes of Dorne!" Arya said, distracting him. She then started to spin a pair of knives in her hands. Ned was amazed at that. Everyone, other than the travelers, also looked surprised.

"That is really good, Arya. Do you know how to use them?" Robb asked jokingly.

"Of course," she answered and started to show them some moves. Robb's mouth hung open. Both Cat and Sansa looked disapprovingly.

"Who are the Sand Snakes?" Ned asked Rodrick.

"They are Oberyn Martell's baseborn daughters. They were at Starfall. All of them were interesting, far from what a lady should be. One of them taught Lady Arya some moves and gifted her those knives. Since then, till we arrived here, she used to practice on the ship every day. Also, Ser Brynden was teaching her some basic sword fighting. And looks like she did good," Rodrick said.

Ned felt proud of her.

"Aryan told me that he will look for a Water Dancing instructor for me," Arya said.

"Water dancing? You do not want to become a lady. Why do you need some dancing teacher?" Robb asked.

"Robb, Water dancing is not some form of dance. It is a sword fighting technique in Bravos. I had seen the Water Dancers at Bravos and I think that style would suit her very much," Ned explained to his son.

"Arya Cailstark, put those things down this instant!" Catelyn screeched.

"Weapons are not for ladies. A lady must be sweet and gentle," Septa Mordane voiced loudly from behind Sansa, who nodded in agreement.

"No. I worked hard to learn this. And I don't want to be a stupid lady," Arya said.

"Cat, let her be. Don't provoke her. I will talk to her," Eddard said.

"Lord Cailstark, she will never get a good and proper husband if she does not behave like a lady," the Septa toned. Catelyn agreed, supporting the Septa.

"I said enough. No more word on this topic," he spoke in a clipped and grave voice. "Understood?"

They nodded. Arya beamed at him.

"Arya, while I am allowing you to do all this, you must listen to your mother," Ned said.

"Yes, Father. Aryan also told me to behave properly. I will be good. But please allow me to practice," Arya said.

Catelyn then proceeded to take them all into the castle.

He had just broken his fast with his family and household. Arya was retelling the whole experience. All were listening attentively. Sansa looked jealous but still attentive to Arya. Ser Brynden, who sat next to him, added here and there.

"There was a melee at Highgarden. My cousin won the melee. All the others were weak. Frostbite just broke them apart and defeated them," Arya said.

"It was really a sight to behold. His sword just cleaved through the other's armor and swords. Besides, the boy was moving so fast among those other summer knights, that it was difficult for the others to get a hold on him," the Blackfish explained.

Must be the Wolfblood. But for some reason, Aryan doesn't believe in it and makes a face when someone mentions it, Ned thought. After hearing all the details from his excited daughter, Ned decided to go to his solar to look over his reports about Starkhaven.

______________________________________________________________________

Then the door was knocked and opened. Catelyn, followed by the Cailstark children, then Samwell, and finally Rodrick and Joey Cassel carrying a big box, came in.

"Is there something?" Ned asked his wife.

"Arya said that this box contains gifts and merchandise from the Reach and Dorne. So the others made me come along," Cat said.

Curious children, Ned smiled and took the offered letter from Rodrick while directing him to open the box.

Uncle Ned,

I hope this letter finds you in good spirits. My journey in Westeros is finished, and I am writing this letter as we go to the last stop, Sunspear. Aunt Allyria's marriage went well and I had the chance to meet the Martell family. The meeting went well. I am going to make a deal with them, which will make us good allies. I will tell you about that later when we meet personally. On the other hand, it seems like the Tyrells hosted a tourney as an excuse to meet me at Oldtown. I am sure by now Arya must have told you about my victory in the melee. It is possible that Wilas Tyrell, heir to Highgarden, will be visiting Qyburn in the near future for treatment of his leg. You will be proud to know that I forged my own chain in just one day from the Citadel and also obtained permission to set up a 'University' at the Widow's Watch.

"Maester Luwin, Aryan has forged his own chain in a day," he announced.

"Lord Aryan is very brilliant, my Lord. It does not surprise me," Luwin answered with a smile.

"Why is Lord Aryan getting a chain from the Citadel so important, Maester?" Sam asked.

"There are novices still in Oldtown who are very old and still without a single chain. They had studied there for decades and still have not gained a single link. So don't you think Lord Aryan Stark gathering his chain in one day is a big achievement?"

Sam nodded with wide eyes. Ned saw the others looking at the contents of the box. They were mostly clothes and jewels for the ladies. He continued with the letter.

On another matter, I have decided to give Dreadfort to the Cassels. They have been loyal for long. I have given details in my signed decree. Just ask them to change the damn name of the castle. And arrange a marriage to Jory Cassel with the Ryswells to placate them. My signed decree also contains my judgment on Ramsay Snow. Read it to the concerned parties.

Well, those are the important things. On another matter, I would like to draw your attention to the fact that little Arya is seeing sights she should not see for her age. So please close your door when you show your personal affection to Aunt Cat. Also, curb your guards. They talk too much in front of children.

Eddard choked on his drink suddenly, reading that.

"What happened, Ned?" Cat asked, coming to him.

He showed her the letter. Cat blushed on seeing that. Then she said, "I will deal with this."

Ned continued reading.

Finally, I think I will send you a letter one month before I reach Kingslanding. From there, back to the North. I will see you all soon.

With Regards,

Aryan Stark

He folded the letter. Then called Ser Rodrick. "Ser Rodrick, I am sure you already know. The lands of the Boltons now belong to you. Aryan orders you to change the name of the fort."

Jory Cassel's eyes widened on hearing that. "What?"

Rodrick said, "My Lord. I had served three generations of Starks of Winterfell. I wish to continue so till my last breath. So I would like you to please name Jory as the Lord of Bolton lands."

Pleased with the loyal knight, Eddard said, "Wait till Aryan arrives. Follow his orders till then and tell him your desires when he returns. I am sure Aryan will listen to you. Also, I will have to arrange a match for Jory with the Ryswells."

"Thank you, my Lord. Until Lord Stark arrives, I will do my duty and then tell him about it," Rodrick said.

Ned thanked the veteran knight. His daughter Beth Cassel was Sansa's friend and came to Moat Cailin instead of staying with her father at Winterfell.

Eddard then announced, "Aryan will send me a letter one month before he arrives in Kingslanding. I will depart for Kingslanding then. Aryan will be there to swear his fealty and I could meet Robert again. He has been pestering me for so long."

The grown-ups nodded. Everyone soon started to leave the solar while Eddard remained.

Somewhere, Beyond the Wall

The biting cold did not deter him from his mission. The Lord Stark had given the Free Folk the golden chance. A chance they would never get again. The Lord Commander had designated him to talk and convince the Free Folk to come south of the Wall. Since then, Jeor Mormont was busy convincing the brothers of the Night's Watch. Though there had been some silent protests, but with the backing of the North, none dared to disagree. Considering what Lord Stark did on the Iron Islands and Skagos, no one dared to speak against him openly. He had been there when Jeor Mormont told Maester Aemon the fate of the Bloodraven. The old man had smiled and cried at the same time. Mance had readied his supplies. Once that had been done, he began his journey.

He had started alone, knowing that his brothers were not looked upon kindly by the others. His first stop was at Craster's Keep. He loathed to step into that damn place. Craster was a cunt who married his own daughters. He had wondered many times what about the fate of any possible sons of Craster. But decided not to dwell upon it. Let Craster worship whatever cold god he likes. Still, he had extended the offer to the old man, but Craster refused. But Mance noticed the looks exchanged between his wives or daughters, whichever they were.

His first stop was at the large river clan under a fierce and comely woman named Karsi. They proved to be very reasonable. He did not have to do much to convince them. Somehow the clan agreed to his reasons and promised that they would be at Hardhome in time. Personally, he thought that this clan had too many old and children in them and with the onset of cold, the availability was rapidly decreasing.

He met many other clans on the way. Some proved to be more amiable while others not. Till now he was able to stay clear of the more dangerous tribes like the Weeper or the Rattleshirt. Once that had been done, he went to meet Tormund Giantsbane. This one proved to be a bit difficult. Tormund challenged him to a wrestling match, which he had to accept. Thankfully, he won and was allowed to speak to them about the threat.

Flashback

"So you are telling that the creatures of cold are coming and we are all allowed to come south of the Wall?" one of the elders asked.

Though Tormund was well respected among them, it was still the elders who had the final say.

"Yes. The current Lord Stark has generously allowed all of you into the North," Mance answered respectfully.

"Still, we will have to become kneelers. And we Free Folk do not bow to the Southerners," another added.

"I know. Even though I am a member of the Night's Watch, I was born among the Free Folk. So I know how much you hate to become kneelers. But don't you think survival is more important here than pride? Besides, you would get food, work, and shelter there. Times have changed. Unlike the past, today the North has grown powerful. They still follow the Old Gods, so in most ways both of you are similar," Mance said.

"We were hunted down in the past by them. How can you be sure that this time it is different? Perhaps your Lord Stark is planning to kill all of us once we are at their mercy," an old woman asked.

"Look, if we started pointing the fingers, then it will never stop. They will also say that you raided their lands, killed and kidnapped their people. It has to stop somewhere. I cannot give you my word. I have met with Lord Aryan Stark. He is young but has accomplished great things. If he wanted, he could have just sealed the Wall and sent his men to assist the Black Brothers. All of you would have died even before trying. But for the first time since the Wall has been built, you are being allowed to go South. He is willing to put aside the past and is extending his hand. It is regrettable that you are not taking it," Mance added.

"Crow, you cannot expect us to just accept everything you said. The history between us is bloody. Still, what you said deserves merit," the same old woman said.

"Grandmother, perhaps I can steal this Lord Stark and make him agree to our needs," a beautiful blonde-haired girl called out from beside the old woman.

I doubt that little girl. If the stories I heard about the Bloody Wolf are true, he will steal you before you even know Mance thought amused. She was really beautiful.

"This is my granddaughter Val. Quite fierce she is. Few had tried to steal her, but none succeeded till now. Others fear her as the last one who tried to steal her lost his cock," the old woman said.

There was a chorus of laughter among them on hearing that.

The elder of the clan said, "Our scouts had come across a few abandoned camps and villages. Whole clans who just seemed to have disappeared without their belongings. We had thought that they must have traveled somewhere else as the true Winter is coming. Now that you've come and said about the Others, it seems that is the cause. Why don't you go out and let us have a discussion among ourselves?"

"Of course. I really hope you accept my proposal," Mance said as he went out.

Flashback Ends

That was a few weeks ago. The clan had assured him that they would be at Hardhome in time. Tormund Giantsbane and a woman named Dalla, who was Val's elder sister, along with two others, had joined him. Dalla was a good tracker.

They were currently at the Skirling Pass.

"Are you sure this is the way?" Mance asked, squinting his eyes in the fog.

"I knows my way around here. I can go anywhere with my eyes closed," Dalla said in a clipped tone.

"I am a seasoned ranger and familiar with these parts. But this snow and low visibility is taking its toll," Mance answered.

They were nearing the borders of the Lands of Always Winter, where the Thenns resided.

"Those proud cunts better be thankful and agree to us, Crow," Tormund said. The man was boastful. Mance didn't give a rat's arse about anything he said. He was longing for some warmth and a good sleep.

"We should clear the pass to rest. If we get trapped here, the cold and whatever accompanies it will kill us," Dalla said as she led the way.

Mance had a guilty look on his face, which Dalla noticed. She said, "I know you feel bad about leaving them. But Harma, Rattleshirt, and the Weeper and their clans are true savages. They eat other men. And trust me, they will not give a shit about your terms. That is why we are not going to talk to them. Who knows? They'll even kill and eat you before you even get the chance. But still, they may know as there is enough time. Perhaps they will be at Hardhome by the time we reach there," Dalla said.

One of the men who had accompanied them added, "They will not bend knee and also won't accept your demands. They will attack."

"Then they will be crushed by the Starks. Do you know that Lord Stark has earned the name the Bloody Wolf at the age of ten and two? The things he did on the Iron Islands and then later on Skagos," Mance said. He then proceeded to tell them about the Ironborn rebellion and the recapturing of Skagos.

As they neared the exit of the pass to the other side, suddenly he heard a sound. 'Crunch.'

"Wait! Do you hear that?" Mance asked through the howling winds.

"What are you barking about, Crow?" Tormund asked loudly.

"Shh. I hear them too," Dalla shushed everyone.

The voice of footsteps and crunching of ice was heard. Someone, or rather something, was coming from the other direction. The fog and cold suddenly seemed to increase, reminding him of the conversation with the Lord Commander.

"Quick. It is the Others. Come on. Hide," Mance said as he scrambled behind a large rock.

"I am not afraid of anything," Tormund roared as he hefted his axe.

Dalla slapped him hard. "Shut up, you idiot, and hide. We will fight later," she said, following Mance. The others followed her. The sight of Dalla slapping Tormund amused Mance, even though there was danger lurking near.

Soon they saw the ungodly sight. There was an Other with icy skin and glowing blue eyes sitting on a dead and decomposed horse, leading hundreds of undead men, women, and children. Some looked like they had died recently, while others looked like they had been dead for years.

All of them sat there with halted breath.

"By the Old Gods. What the fuck? I am suddenly feeling a chill in my bones," Tormund whispered.

"That feeling is called fear. Death is passing near you. You are feeling fear of death," Mance said, amused.

"And you were trying to attack them?" Dalla said, looking at Tormund, who turned his face away.

"They are coming here, crossing the Skirling Pass. I hope by the time we reach the Thenns, they are still alive. It would really be sad if we reached there only to find a whole clan of dead," Mance said.

Soon the Other and his undead party passed. Slowly, the fog and the cold decreased.

"The magic of the Others. This is their domain. They can easily crush us in the cold and ice," Mance said. "One of you should immediately go and warn the others about what we saw."

One of the men volunteered and started his journey back. Mance continued his journey forward. Mance lost his sense of time and direction. Had it not been for Dalla, he would have been lost. But still, they persisted. Another week passed. Soon they saw a large settlement in front of them.

"Are we there yet?" Mance asked.

"No, we are not supposed to be. It will take perhaps another two weeks. But I don't know about this settlement here," Dalla whispered, eyeing the tents warily.

They could see many people outside. Mance decided not to waste any time and started to go near them. Soon they reached the tents.

One of the persons lifted his spear and asked him who he was in Old Tongue.

Mance replied in Old Tongue, "I am a man of the Night's Watch. I want to meet your leader."

The man said, "He does not meet crows like you."

Tormund roared, "Move away, you cunts. We need to meet your leader now."

A commotion began, and fists started to fly between Tormund and the guards. Soon, people separated them.

"What is going on? And who are you?" A regal-looking man asked, appearing suddenly.

Mance observed that the others stood respectfully around him. He heard Dalla gasp behind him.

Still, he said respectfully, "I am Mance Ryder, a brother of the Night's Watch. We were on our way to see the Thenns."

"An interesting sight. A Crow with the Free Folk. What do you want with the Thenns?" he asked.

"Something grave and important. A matter of life and death," Mance said.

"Then you are lucky. We are the Thenns. I am Magnar Styr of the Thenn," he said, introducing himself.

His eyes widening in realization, Mance said, "You are far away from your home. Why?"

"It is a long story," Styr said.

With a smile, Mance said, "I think I can guess."

Pentos

Rhaella Targaryen sat back in her chair, exhaling softly as she pushed her empty plate aside. Even now, years after their escape, she sometimes found it difficult to believe that she, Daenerys, and Aegon had survived.

But their survival had come at a cost. They live in the constant fear, knowing that usurper's assassins are out there.

She had been a queen once. A wife. A prisoner in her own home.

She could still hear the screams echoing through the halls of the Red Keep, the scent of burned flesh lingering in the air long after Aerys had ordered another man put to the flames. She remembered the paranoia, the way his fingers would tighten around his armrests when he spoke of traitors lurking in the shadows. How easily he would decide who lived and who died on a whim, how his cruelty had known no bounds.

The worst of it had not even been the burnings—no, the worst was what came after. After every execution, after every scream had faded to silence, Aerys would come to her chambers. And each time, she prayed it would be over quickly. That it would be less painful than the last. That perhaps this time, he would not whisper of treason in her ear as he forced himself upon her.

Her sons had not been spared his madness either.

Rhaegar—her beautiful, brilliant Rhaegar—had once been the only light in her life. But even he had been consumed, first by duty, then by prophecy. He ended up dooming them all.

And then there had been Viserys. Her poor Viserys. He was born into a prison, instead of a castle. She had tried to shelter him, to love him, but he had been poisoned by Aerys' words. And in the end, he was killed by the hands of Lannister men during the sack of King's Landing.

She had heard, in excruciating detail, what had been done to her good-daughter, to her granddaughter, to her youngest son. The Lannisters tried to make it certain that no Targaryen would ever sit the Iron Throne again. They had sent Gregor Clegane and Amory Lorch to do their bidding.

Rhaella's fingers curled into fists. She had wept for them, had cursed the gods for their cruelty.

Fortunately, they had managed to keep Aegon's survival a secret. If not for Varys, she doubted they would have been able to do so. The world works in strange ways, she thought. There was a time when I distrusted him, when I kept him at arm's length before the rebellion. Now, I find myself relying on him.

Aegon shifted in his seat, watching her with a concerned expression. "Are you all right, Grandmother?"

Rhaella forced a small smile. "I am, my love. Just thinking of how much has changed."

Before Aegon could respond, footsteps were heard. A moment later, Jon Connington stepped into the room.

"Your Grace," Jon greeted, inclining his head. "Is this a good time? I have news to share."

"We have finished eating, Jon," Rhaella said, folding her hands in her lap. "Tell us what you know."

Jon hesitated for a brief moment before asking, "Would you like the good news or the bad news first?"

"It has been long since we heard good tidings. Start with that," Rhaella decided.

Jon nodded. "The first piece of good news is from Varys. The opportunity to reclaim the Iron Throne will come soon. Westeros is fracturing. The Baratheons and Lannisters are alienating the other kingdoms. The ruling of the small council is a disaster. Their internal scheming ensures that the realm remains divided. There is no unity among them."

"That is promising," Rhaella said cautiously. "But the usurper still sits on the throne."

Jon allowed a faint smirk. "Yes, but there is division among the three Baratheon brothers. Cersei is actively driving them apart. On the surface, Westeros appears peaceful, but Varys believes the situation is dangerously delicate. A single spark, and the realm will plunge into war. That will be the best time to strike."

Aegon sat forward "We cannot wait until the war begins. We have to be prepared before that."

Jon smiled approvingly. "You are right, your grace."

Rhaella exhaled softly, her gaze lingering on her grandson. "Reclaiming the throne will not be a simple task. Blood will flow, and the realm will be thrown into chaos. I only pray that you and Daenerys will be ready for it."

Daenerys said quietly "I may be young, Mother, but I understand what is at stake. We are doing our best in our studies."

Rhaella thought It is not your studies I am worried about. It's your inexperience.

Jon nodded before continuing, "The second piece of good news is that it seems highly likely that an alliance has been formed between House Martell and House Stark. The Bloody Wolf stayed in Sunspear for four days and met with Prince Doran. His mother was there as well"

Rhaella inhaled sharply. "That is good news. At the very least, it means he will not side with the Baratheons."

Aegon frowned. "So does that mean they will align with us?"

Jon hesitated. "That is hard to say."

Rhaella exhaled in relief. "That was my greatest fear—that Aryan Stark would take up arms against us. We could not have won against him. Not with the power of the new North behind him. There is a saying in Westeros: Where the Stark goes, the North follows."

She shuddered slightly at the thought. The name Bloody Wolf had been well-earned. If he had turned his gaze upon her family, she doubted they would have lived to see another year.

Jon continued, "The third piece of news is even better. Tywin Lannister attempted to conspire with the Boltons. He sought to weaken the Stark hold over the North before moving against them. However, his plans unraveled when Roose Bolton and his son were both killed by Roose's own bastard, Ramsay Snow."

Rhaella's brows lifted in surprise. "And what of Tywin's involvement?"

Jon smirked. "Discovered. The latest letters exchanged between Roose Bolton and Tywin Lannister have been found. By now, the Northern lords know of Bolton's treachery."

Rhaella laughed.

When she somehow composed herself, she said, "Tywin has made a terrible decision. Now he has earned a most dangerous enemy. One who does not fear him and has the power to destroy him." She glanced at Jon. "And knowing what the Bloody Wolf is capable of… this will be brutal." and she started laughing again.

Jon was amused too "Indeed."

Then, his face darkened. "Now for the bad news."

The room grew still.

"Aryan Stark is now in Essos."

Aegon stilled. "What?"

Jon's voice was measured. "Varys believes there is a chance that he may pay us a visit."

Daenerys stiffened. "Why?"

Jon shook his head. "That, we do not know. But it is a dangerous situation. Everyone in Westeros knows that you and your mother are alive princess, but Aryan Stark... Varys suspects that he might know about Prince Aegon's survival. We don't know what is going on in his mind. He is unpredictable."

Rhaella felt her blood run cold. "What do Oberyn and Doran think? They have been in contact with him."

Jon hesitated. "They do not believe Aryan Stark is an enemy, but even they cannot say for certain what he intends."

Rhaella swallowed. "If he meets us… we will talk to him. We have not done anything against him. It was Aerys and Rhaegar who wronged his family, and they are dead."

They had no idea what the Bloody Wolf wants. It's not like they can always run from him. They had to meet him someday.