Valar Morghulis, Valar Dohaeris.
Brother and sister, so alike they were in looks, yet so different.
My first Song of Ice and Fire fic; a conceptual little oneshot comparing and linking two of my favourite characters from the series, and attaching half of a Braavosi saying to each of them. I hope you enjoy it; quite frankly, it sprung from nowhere.
Each had a purpose. Hers; she was driven to kill, to avenge. She learnt for that purpose, trained for it, aspired to it; when she was herself, no matter how she might hide it, it consumed her waking and sleeping mind.
His purpose was to serve. He fought to defend people; his people, and those beyond and unknowing of his defence. He obeyed when he was told "whatever it takes" and he killed his ally. He brought enemies behind his defence, made friends of them. He led those that defended. He was the shield.
Each had a wolf. Hers was free, wild, savage, and a killer. It roamed with a pack and harassed its' and her enemies.
His remained a silent, loyal companion, and often (but not always) came when called.
Each had a sword. Hers she held on to for memories and for hope of vengeance, for the love of he who gave it to her and the memory of he who trained her.
His he kept as a gift from a leader, a gift given for his loyalty to the cause and the trust granted him. He kept it for the honour of the gifter.
The closest she came to a vow was a nightly list of people she was to kill. All men must die, but those most of all.
His vow played on his mind every minute; the mind of the shield that guards the realm of men. All men must serve, and him more than most.