Chapter 36

Tyrion shifted from foot to foot, awaiting the moment the doors to the great hall would open.

"Are you alright Tyrion?" asked Sansa, her blue eyes brimming with concern as she sat on her throne

"Absolutely, my Queen" he said, forcing himself to stand still

It had taken three days for news to reach lord Glover and for him to ride to Winterfell. Scouts had reported his movement along the Kings Road and to Sansa's annoyance he wasn't alone. Lord Glover had brought at least twenty men with him as well as Lord Manderly. Tyrion winced recalling the fury on his wife's face as she received the news.

"It makes sense why he's yet to reply to my letters" she'd said, her voice icy "he's apparently been hiding in Deepwood Motte"

Tyrion would not like to be lord Manderly when he arrived. Both he and Sansa had written to him regarding the issues merchants were having with deliveries from White Harbour, and the only replies they'd received were vague excuses from the castle's Maester.

Lyon barked, brushing against him. The direwolf had grown over the last week or so, his legs getting somewhat longer and gangly. He was still very young, but now stood just past Tyrion's waist.

"Best behaviour" murmured Tyrion, running his hand through the wolf's soft fur "this is a political meeting"

Lyon whined, scratching his paw at the floor.

"Intimidating them is fine" he conceded

Given the situation Sansa would not extend the courtesy of a warm greeting as she had to lord Cerwyn and lady Tallhart. At the news of lord Glover's imminent arrival the Winterfell household had assembled in the great hall. Sansa looked every bit the Queen of ice, dressed in a long black gown with a high collar and her direwolf crown glinting in her fiery hair. As her husband and the lord of Winterfell, Tyrion had taken up position to the right of her throne with Arya lurking over to the left. Guards lined the walls, all stood at ease with Maester Wolkan stood off to one side.

Tyrion smiled at the way Sansa had arranged things. It was a subtle yet firm reminder of who held the power, without being seen as aggressive. Sansa had told him he didn't need to be here, or see them at all if he didn't want to but there was no chance he would leave Sansa to face this without him.

After what felt like a lifetime the doors creaked open and lord Glover strode in, followed swiftly by lord Manderly. A small number of guards followed them into the hall before the doors were closed. The older lord's face was pinched in anger as he approached the throne.

"Your Grace" he said stiffly, bowing his head

Lord Manderly stood a little behind, but followed the same formal greeting.

"My lords, I welcome you" said Sansa "The hospitality of Winterfell is yours"

Nerves tingled through Tyrion as lord Glover lifted his head. With the proper formalities observed, the real problems would begin.

"Where is my son?" asked lord Glover, struggling to keep his voice steady

"In the dungeon" replied the Queen

"On what charges do you hold him?"

"Kidnapping, slavery, torture and treason" said Sansa without hesitating

Lord Glover's face grew red "Your Grace, I have been your loyal servant-"

"Perhaps" said Sansa "but Gawan has not"

Lord Manderly stepped forwards drawing level with lord Glover "Your Grace, I dare say these charges are somewhat troubling"

"Ah, lord Manderly I'm glad you're here. I'm very interested to know why the merchants in the villages surrounding Winterfell are not getting their supplies?"

"There have been a few late shipments" he said easily "I fear I've been away from White Harbour the past week or so. When I return I will be certain to straighten out any issues"

"I've heard no such reports of issues at White Harbour" said Sansa, narrowing her eyes "and Ser Davos Seaworth assures me there have been no issues in the six Kingdoms"

"I fear there's been some miscommunication your Grace" he said, bowing his head apologetically

"It would appear so. Until these issues are resolved, lord Tyrion's ruling will stand – you will pay the merchants affected by these 'issues' twice what they have lost and three times if it continues"

Lord Manderly shot a quick glare at Tyrion, before forcing his face into a look of repentance "Certainly, your Grace"

"To the matter at hand, if you please" said lord Glover gruffly "I demand to know what evidence you have against my son. Did you witness him engaging in any of these vile acts, or are we to take the word of wildlings?"

Tyrion drew in a breath, stepping forwards "I believe I can answer that my lord. I was in the Wolfswood where your son and Robin Flint were holding women as captives to be sold into slavery. Most were free folk though there were a few from the villages as well"

Lord Glover's eyes burned into Tyrion "You saw Gawan?"

"Regrettably so"

"I'm to take your word for it?"

"Why wouldn't you?" said Tyrion "It gives me no pleasure to tell you this my lord, but your son is guilty of all he is accused of"

The lord of Deepwood Motte looked as though he'd swallowed something sour as he glared at him, but Tyrion held firm despite the churning in his stomach. He hated thinking about the Wolfswood let alone talking about it, but he was the only witness against Gawan and Robin with any sort of credibility. Grey Worm could have been used as evidence, but the word of a disgraced unsullied captain would be taken no better than the wildlings. Sansa had assured him multiple times he didn't need to do this, but he'd insisted on getting this out in the open straight away.

"What exactly did Gawan supposedly do to you?" ground out lord Glover

"I will start by saying Gawan did not act alone, Robin Flint is equally culpable" said Tyrion "Together they arranged the kidnapping of women to be sold into slavery and held them prisoner in the Wolfswood. They sent men to take me from the path between Winterfell and the village and I awoke in the Wolfswood, where I spoke to both Robin and Gawan multiple times. You may recall the captain of the Unsullied – Grey Worm – he paid Robin and Gawan to capture me so he could kill me. When I was dead Robin Flint would move to marry Queen Sansa"

"They told you this?" asked lord Manderly

"They did, my lord"

"Please continue, lord Lannister" said lord Glover, emphasising his family name as if it were poison "what did my Gawan do to you?"

'I'm coming for you little lion' whispered the beast's voice

Tyrion swallowed thickly "What didn't he do my lord? I'm sure you've heard plenty of tales. I helped the girls escape into the Wolfswood before I was captured again. Robin and your son were rather unhappy with me, particularly when I wouldn't tell them which path the girls had taken. They-they tried many things to make me talk..."

He trailed off, trying to ignore the way his heart was beating in his chest. Tyrion had turned this conversation over in his mind for days, rehearsing what he would say and how much to divulge. Every time he'd imagined himself delivering the truth without hesitation – instead he could barely get the words out. The violent imagery of his dreams these past nights had worn down whatever resolve he had. Tyrion had promised himself to do this; to help Sansa as much as he could. The idea was almost laughable. He couldn't do this – his hands were sweating at the thought of the Wolfswood.

"What utter horse shit" snarled lord Glover

"You doubt my husband's honesty?" asked Sansa sharply

"I do not doubt lord Tyrion was in the Wolfswood and was injured there. I struggle to believe my son and heir is responsible!"

"What possible reason would lord Tyrion have for accusing Gawan and Robin of such crimes?" asked Sansa. Her face was immovable, but Tyrion didn't miss the tightness in her fingers as she clutched the arm of the throne. The Queen was not at all happy.

"Jealousy!" exploded lord Glover, stepping forwards "Both Gawan and Robin sought your affections, and either would have made a more suitable husband than the Lannister!"

The temperature in the room dropped several degrees when Sansa answered "Tread lightly my lord, I realise you love your son but I will not tolerate insults against my husband"

Lord Glover would not be warned; his hands curling into fists as he turned his gaze to Tyrion "You expect us all to believe this fantasy of yours? That two Northern lords would waste their time on you Lannister? It's bad enough you fancy yourself some sort of hero, but I will not allow you to besmirch my family's name to satisfy your own ego!"

Tyrion's heart crumbled to his boots. They didn't believe him. He knew he wasn't a hero, but he wasn't lying either – everything he'd said was the truth. Lord Glover's eyes were smouldering as he glared at him and Tyrion found his throat closing up as he struggled to defend himself.

The older man's mouth curled upwards, sensing the weakness in his prey "You come North as an exile and our Queen gives you a place here – yet you whisper your traitorous words into her ear, turning her against her own. How many monarchs have you served now Lannister?"

"I'm not lying" tried Tyrion, his voice coming out little more than a whisper

"You look fine to me" he said dismissively "What really happened eh? A couple of cutthroats get hold of you, and you concocted this wild story to save face?"

Heat spread up Tyrion's neck, flooding his face as lord Glover's men sniggered; even lord Manderly cracked a smile.

"Enough" said Sansa. The word snapped through the air like a whip, casting a deathly silence over the room "Let me be very clear; you will not speak to lord Tyrion like that ever again"

"Your Grace, please see reason-" began lord Glover

"One more word and you will join your son" warned Sansa, her voice edged with steel "You've spent the past couple of months hiding in Deepwood Motte, so it's understandable you're behind on things. You did not see the state lord Tyrion was in when he was found in the Wolfswood, nor see the weeks of agonising recovery he endured. It is as a courtesy to you lord Tyrion sought to give you his first-hand account – something I assured him was unnecessary. Everything he has told you is the truth, and justice will be done"

"You sound like you've already made your mind up my Queen" snarled lord Glover "Is there going to be a trial or will you simply feed Gawan to the hounds?"

Tyrion glanced sideways at Sansa, seeing her face had drained of all colour at the reminder of how she'd killed Ramsay. The Queen and the lord of Deepwood Motte had locked eyes, both refusing to back down. Arya's face was unreadable at the other side of the throne unless you knew her well, and Tyrion knew she was considering the different ways to end lord Glover. The room was frozen at an impasse until lord Manderly stepped forwards, laying a hand on his friends shoulder.

"Forgive us your Grace. This has been a difficult time, and I fear the journey has left us weary" he said "this conversation may be better had after there's been a chance to rest"

Sansa's face didn't so much as twitch.

In the end lord Glover backed down, reluctantly bowing his head "Apologies your Grace – I should not have lost control of my temper"

The room held its breath until Sansa gave the tiniest nod "I understand your desire to protect your family, as I'm sure you understand I will protect mine. Do not presume to speak to lord Tyrion in such a manner again – he is your liege lord and the husband I chose. When lord Tyrion bent the knee to me I made him one of us; he is as much a Northerner as you and I – treat him with the respect he deserves. I will not warn you again"

Lord Glover's face contorted in rage for a moment reminding Tyrion sharply of Gawan, before the old lord gained control over himself "As you say, your Grace"

Sansa didn't move her gaze or dismiss him and Tyrion realised what she wanted at the same time as lord Glover.

With great difficulty lord Glover turned to Tyrion, his eyes narrowed "Forgive me lord Tyrion, I should not have spoken to you as I did"

Tyrion wanted nothing more than to leave, but he forced himself to nod, murmuring "Of course my lord"

"Very well" said Sansa "We will revisit this matter when you are adequately rested"

It was as lord Glover's party turned to leave that Lyon made his appearance. The direwolf had been lurking in the shadows in the back of the great hall, but now he bound forwards brushing against Tyrion.

"Is that a direwolf?" asked lord Manderly, both lords pausing to gaze at the golden wolf

"Impossible" hissed lord Glover

"That's lord Tyrion's direwolf" called Arya, her grey eyes glinting dangerously "he won't answer to anyone else"

As if to emphasise the point, Lyon turned his head to face the two lords, letting out a snarl.

"Enjoy your rest my lords" called Sansa, as they hurried out the side door – Lyon watching them hungrily as they went


Sansa breathed in, allowing the cool Northern air to reach into her body and soothe her worries. The meeting with Lord Glover had gone even worse than expected and seeing lord Manderly had been an unwelcome surprise. Of all the Northern houses they were two of the oldest and greatest – losing their support would be disastrous to her reign and the knowledge they'd both been in Deepwood Motte for the last week or so was enough to make her nauseous. There was no way of knowing what they'd been discussing but the delays at White Harbour and their absence during Bran's visit made it clear they would not support her until the situation with Gawan and Robin was resolved.

The quiet of the Godswood always reminded Sansa of her father – it was one of her favourite places to think and remember her family. Glancing sideways at Tyrion she hoped it might bring him some comfort too.

Tyrion had been determined to meet with lord Glover and officially give his account of what happened in the Wolfswood. They'd all known the old lord would struggle to accept it and likely deny it, but none of them had expected the viciousness with which he'd thrown it back in Tyrion's face. Lord Glover had accused Tyrion of lying about the whole incident, suggesting he'd been kidnapped by common brigands and had blamed Gawan and Robin out of jealousy. The thought made Sansa's blood boil; lord Glover had belittled and mocked her husband – emphasising his Lannister name as if it were a dirty word and suggesting he wasn't one of them.

After the meeting she'd asked Tyrion to join her in the Godswood and the lord of Winterfell had been her silent company ever since. Lyon had come too, though he'd wandered off into the trees while Arya had disappeared to check the security around Gawan. Sansa had hoped the fresh air and quiet of the Godswood would encourage Tyrion to open up to her – she'd seen in the great hall how deeply lord Glover's words had cut him – yet her husband was sat in silence, staring at the snow covered grass beneath their feet. Sansa shifted on the log, angling herself to see Tyrion more clearly.

"My love, won't you talk to me?"

Tyrion flinched at the question, his face contorting in pain. Guilt crept through Sansa for not intervening earlier with lord Glover, but the old man's harsh words had took her by surprise and she'd half-expected Tyrion to put him in his place as easily as he had lord Dormund.

Finally Tyrion turned to face her, his green eyes damp and shining "I'm not lying"

"Sweetheart, no-one thinks you're lying"

Tyrion shook his head "What lord Glover said...I wouldn't do that Sansa. I'd never try and turn you against the Northerners or stir trouble with the other houses. It was Robin and Gawan, I swear it by all the gods. I told you and Arya because I didn't want them to get close to you – they're dangerous, they could hurt you!"

Sansa's heart lurched at the pain spread across Tyrion's face as he pleaded his case; as if he needed to convince her of his intentions. She reached out, cupping the side of his face and brushing her thumb over the rough scar that cut across his cheek.

"I know all that Tyrion. You don't need to convince me of anything – you never have to. I've never doubted your honesty and I won't start now"

He swallowed thickly "They don't believe me. They think I invented the whole thing"

"Lord Glover's in denial and he had absolutely no right to speak to you as he did" she said "I'm so very proud of you. I know talking about the Wolfswood is difficult for you, but you did it anyway. Don't listen to a word they said my love – you are as much a Northerner as they are and you are a hero"

"I'm not a hero"

Sansa hardened her tone "You are. All those women are safe because of you and your sacrifice. The Manderlys and the Glovers did nothing to help them. Before we found you Rose told us the names she'd heard while she was a prisoner – and the names were Robin and Gawan – whether lord Glover wants to believe it or not"

Tyrion nodded though his face never changed from the deep frown that covered it. The sight stirred a deep anger in Sansa. Tyrion had been so ashamed of what happened in the Wolfswood, convinced he'd failed them somehow. Convincing him it wasn't his fault had taken weeks of hard work and looking in his lost green eyes she knew it was an ongoing battle. The accusation he'd lied to make himself look a hero had pierced through his defences to the pool of insecurity underneath - but Tyrion was a hero whether he wanted to be or not, and Sansa wouldn't allow anyone to take that from him. His courage in the battle of Blackwater had been all but forgotten and she knew the way he was tossed aside after that bothered him to this day.

"I thought giving lord Glover my account might make things easier for him to accept, but the word of an exiled dwarf counts for no more than a wildings or eunuchs" he said, bitterness tinging his tone

"Your word matters the most to me; far more than lord Glover's ever could"

A sad smile flitted across his face "Thank you Sansa, but I know I'll never be fully accepted. Nothing can change the fact I was born in the Westerlands, or that my name is Lannister"

Self-hatred lurked in the depths of his eyes; an emotion Sansa had worked hard to banish from her husband. It was improving slowly – a lifetime of ridicule and abuse would take time to heal. She'd noticed it came to the surface whenever Tyrion felt inadequate or felt that he'd done something wrong. Whatever confidence Tyrion had regained over the last couple of months seemed to shake when things changed. He'd avoided Bran's party for the first several days of the visit until relaxing a little near the end. No matter what lord Glover and lord Manderly would not make Tyrion uncomfortable in his castle.

"The North is your home; it belongs to you just as much as it does to them" she told him "I made you one of us when you bent the knee"

"Nothing will ever absolve me of my family's crimes; I'll always be a Lannister"

"You are a Lannister. You're a lion and I wouldn't have it any other way, because you're mine Tyrion" she said, gently brushing the stray tear escaping from his eye "I love you so very much. Please don't listen to them sweetheart; I saw the Wolfswood – I know what you suffered for your duty"

Tyrion's face twisted as if in pain, but he leaned into her touch "When I was Joffrey's hand I tried to improve things in Kings Landing, and do you know what the people called me in the streets – the demon monkey. They truly believed I was the little monster dripping poison into good King Joffrey's ear"

"You are not a monster. It wasn't true then and it isn't true now"

Sansa dropped her hand from his face, taking hold of his hand instead. Tyrion had fallen silent, lost in his own thoughts. The last time she'd been in the Godswood was when Bran showed her the past. Ever since she'd wondered what she was supposed to see that could help against Robin and Gawan. Watching her husband try to sort through his confrontation with lord Glover Sansa wondered if this was the reason for what she saw. Seeing the Wolfswood had broken her heart, but perhaps it was worth it if it meant Tyrion knew she had seen the truth – not that she'd ever doubted him.

"What now?" he asked, sighing heavily "My word will not convince them and we have no evidence. Unless Gawan gives a full confession you'll have to release him"

"That won't happen" said Sansa, squeezing his hand "One way or another Gawan will face justice"

"Sansa that will start a war - is it worth it?"

'Am I worth it?' was the question Tyrion was really asking, and Sansa didn't need to think on her answer to that.

"Without doubt" she said "As your wife it's my duty to protect you; as Queen it's my duty to protect the North. Robin and Gawan are monsters and they will not escape justice"

Tyrion nodded, giving her a half-smile "I wish there was more I could do to help you"

"You do more than enough" she said, leaning forwards to kiss his head "There is some evidence we have. Maester Wolkan will testify to the injuries you suffered, and several guards heard you name Robin and Gawan as your attackers in the Wolfswood. A wildings word doesn't count for much, but Rose did name them to me before you were brought back. We have all of the slave collars taken from the girls...and from you"

"Oh" he said, dropping his gaze "that is certainly evidence of a slave trade if nothing else"

"There are the letters too. With your permission I'd like to show them to lord Glover and lord Manderly"

"Of course" he said "Whatever you need"

"You think it was Gawan writing those letters?"

"I'm quite certain of it"

"We wondered why you stopped getting them, but it must have been when Bronn found Gawan"

"The timing would make sense" said Tyrion, biting his lip "Is there nothing else?"

Sansa hesitated. There was one more thing they would use as evidence but Sansa had only allowed it to be kept on the condition Tyrion never saw it. That had been a naive hope – Tyrion was the lord of Winterfell and it would be foolish to not disclose all of the evidence to him. Particularly when the evidence would be presented to other lords and whispers of it would eventually reach Tyrion.

"There is one more thing" she said "It was found in the Wolfswood by Cley's guards. I wanted to destroy it but Arya convinced me to keep it as evidence"

"What did they find?"

"The hot iron" she said softly

Tyrion paled at her words, subconsciously rolling his left shoulder "Oh...that might be useful, I suppose"

"I think the best thing will be to present all the evidence and witness accounts we have to lord Glover and lord Manderly, before bringing Gawan into the great hall to say what he wants - sort of an informal trial. There's no reason to wait, and I don't want lord Glover and lord Manderly here a moment longer than necessary"

"A good plan" he said, nodding supportively

Despite his words, fear had flooded his face at the prospect of seeing Gawan. Ever since Bronn had brought Gawan to Winterfell, Tyrion had been on edge. Her husband had done his best to hide it but Sansa could see it in the way he kept himself busy all day – spending long hours in the practice yard until he was exhausted. Sansa wasn't aware of any nightmares Tyrion had suffered the past few nights, but every morning she woke to find him tucked tightly against her.

"Sweetheart, I don't think you should be there for the trial"

"It's quite alright Sansa, I want to help you!" he said, forcing a smile

"I know, but given how lord Glover spoke to you this morning it might be better if you're not there. This trial will be a battlefield and I don't want you to have to relive everything. You've already told lord Glover and lord Manderly your side of the story – you've gone above and beyond your duty"

She could see the indecision warring in his eyes; the part of him that didn't want to be there and the pride that told him he had to be.

"Arya and Maester Wolkan will be with me as well as some of the guards" she said "It could take hours and I could use your help to cover my other duties"

Sansa knew very well Tyrion could see through her words, but she hoped he would take the respite she was offering; that he'd let her shield him from this.

To her relief he nodded "Alright, if you're sure you don't need me there"

"There's nothing more you can do in the trial" she assured him "Covering my duties will be a huge help though"

"I'm at your disposal" he said, fiddling with her fingers wrapped around his "there is one thing I'd like to ask you"

"Anything, my love"

Tyrion's green eyes were nervous as he met her gaze "Can I see the hot iron?"


Arya wasn't sure who looked more nervous between Sansa and Tyrion as she brought in all the evidence they had. She'd joined them for lunch where Sansa had laid out her plans for the afternoon. If there was something they both agreed on it was that lord Glover and lord Manderly needed to go as soon as possible. She ground her teeth thinking about the way they'd spoken to Tyrion. Arya knew her sister had taken Tyrion into the Godswood to talk, and fortunately Tyrion had seemed in a better mood when she joined them for lunch – though the little Lannister had still pulled her aside when she arrived.

"I...I just want you to know, what I told you about the Wolfswood is the truth" he'd said, green eyes begging her to believe him "I wouldn't lie to you or Sansa, or try to cause you problems – I love you both"

"Don't be stupid" she'd told him, flicking his forehead before bending down to pull him into a fierce hug

"I didn't want you to think I was lying because I was jealous of Gawan" he'd murmured

"Why would you be? It's like being jealous of a piece of shit stuck to your boot"

Lord Glover should be thanking all the Gods the knife hadn't left her hand in the great hall. After listening to Tyrion pleading for her trust she'd been more tempted than ever to spill the old lord's blood. She'd been somewhat relieved to know Tyrion wouldn't be at the trial. Watching him talk about the Wolfswood this morning had been difficult enough, but the trial would go over everything in a detail he didn't need to hear again.

Lunch had been cleared away, leaving the table free for them to go through all the preparations for the trial. Arya dropped the sack of slave collars onto the table with the rest of the evidence, gauging Tyrion's reaction. Sansa had quietly explained to her that Tyrion had asked to see the hot iron and the item was sat on the table too, though it was wrapped in cloth.

"This is everything" said Arya, sinking into her seat at the table opposite Tyrion and Sansa.

The Queen had pulled her chair next to her husbands, her blue eyes watching him worriedly.

Tyrion had clearly seen the package with the hot iron, but he moved his attention to the stack of letters instead "This is all of them?"

"Yes" said Sansa "Maester Wolkan's kept track of them and the dates they were received"

Tyrion nodded "It's possible lord Glover will recognise his son's hand-writing"

"He'd deny it even if he saw Gawan write the letters in front of him" grumbled Arya, nudging the sack of collars "These were from all of the girls you rescued"

Sansa reached across to the one with the melted clasp; cut in half by a jagged cut "This is the one they put on you. Maester Wolkan had to cut it off"

Tyrion had lost some of his colour at the sight of the black band "Gawan melted it shut. They did that after the women escaped"

Neither of them seemed willing to unveil the hot iron so Arya reached for it instead. Sansa clearly didn't understand why Tyrion wanted to see it, but Arya did. Of all his injuries this had brought him the most shame. If Arya had suffered as he had, she knew it was the thing that would haunt her the most.

"The guards found this in the Wolfswood after we left with you" said Arya, handing the package over to him

Tyrion accepted it warily, the slightest tremor going through his hand as he pulled the cloth off. The hot iron was the length of a stick with a circle on one end that contained a pattern of curves and lines. It was nothing specific – out of context it was no more than a shape – to Tyrion it was the price he'd paid to save the women from a cruel fate.

He stared at it for a long moment, before asking in a small voice "Does it look like that?"

Sansa's face crumpled in sympathy as she wrapped her arm around his shoulders "It does my love"

Arya glanced away giving Sansa a moment to comfort her husband. She'd seen the brand a couple of times since the Wolfswood but only once since Tyrion was well enough to wear proper clothes again. When she'd walked in on Tyrion and Sansa in bed the other morning, the mark had been visible on his bare back, stoking the fire burning inside her - revenge would be had.

Tyrion swallowed thickly, turning the hot iron in his hand as if analysing it "There's nothing to link it to Robin and Gawan?"

"No big brother - I looked into it"

"This won't convince lord Glover" he said

"Gawan is a monster" said Sansa, rubbing his shoulder "but Robin is the one with any intelligence. The evidence is enough to demand answers - it's entirely possible Gawan will make a mistake under pressure"

Arya nodded, smirking at Tyrion "There'll be plenty of pressure"

The lord of Winterfell forced a smile "Thank you - both of you"

"Don't worry about a thing" said Sansa "We'll handle this"

"Very well" he said, returning the hot iron to the table "I suppose I'd best get on with my own tasks"

"You don't mind covering for me?" asked Sansa

"Not at all"

Tyrion slid from the seat, pausing to kiss Sansa's cheek before making his way around the table.

"See you both later" he said, as Lyon trotted over to join him

As soon as the door shut behind the lord of Winterfell Arya turned her attention to Sansa "He actually thought we'd believe that shit lord Glover was spewing?"

The Queen slumped in her chair "It wasn't that lord Glover didn't believe him, it was that he accused Tyrion of making the whole thing up that upset him so much"

"Even before the Wolfswood Gawan and Robin liked to make fun of Tyrion - lord Glover can't deny that"

"He's going to deny everything" said Sansa "the best chance is getting Gawan to slip up"

"If he doesn't, are you going to free Gawan?"

Sansa's eyes narrowed in annoyance "You know I'm not"

Arya nodded "Just making sure. If lord Glover proves a problem I can visit Deepwood Motte"

"We can't kill every house that opposes us. I'd be no better than Cersei or Daenerys"

"It's up to you" shrugged Arya "I'm only saying the Frey's aren't a problem anymore, and I do enjoy wearing a face"


The wheelhouse trundled along as it had for last few days, slowly winding through the North on its way to the neck. Bronn shifted on the bench, glancing across at the King. As promised no-one had complained about him spending the first part of the journey in the wheelhouse with Bran, but Bronn doubted he'd last much longer. The break from riding had been nice but Bran was hardly entertaining company - perhaps it was time to switch out with Ser Davos.

"You can ask me" said Bran, his eyes never leaving the window he'd been staring out of for days

"Read minds now too, your Grace?"

Bran's mouth twitched upwards "I don't need to be the three-eyed raven to know you have questions"

"Aye, alright then - why'd ya free Grey Worm?"

The King shook his head "I can't tell you that - but it was necessary"

"Your sisters weren't happy about it"

"Understandably"

Bronn sighed, fiddling with his the dagger on his belt "Reckon they'll forgive ya?"

"In time"

"You aint much for conversation are ya?"

Bran finally pulled his gaze from the window, the same shadows in his dark eyes that had been there since they left Winterfell "I fear I'm not anymore. I do enjoy listening though"

A slither of sympathy wound through Bronn at the look on his King's face. The young man might have strange powers, but he spent all his time in the past - surely it was a lonely place to be?

"What would you want to hear?" he asked

"I once dreamed of being a knight and having great adventures - I'm sure you've had plenty"

Bronn held back from pointing out Bran could see anything. The three-eyed raven probably knew more about Bronn than he did himself.

"Reckon I've got a story or two, your Grace. You ever hear about how I met Tyrion? Your mother weren't a fan of him for sure"

Some of the sadness lifted from Bran's eyes and Bronn found himself smiling as he regaled the King with his adventures in the Eyrie. Perhaps a bit longer in the wheelhouse wouldn't hurt.


"Lord Glover, Lord Manderly, thank you for joining me" said Sansa, inclining her head as the two old lords took their seats.

They were in the room Sansa used for council meetings, though the tables had been arranged so Sansa and Arya sat at one side with lord Glover and lord Manderly opposite. Maester Wolkan sat at the end of the table to mediate between the groups.

"Certainly your Grace" said lord Manderly "I believe the rest has done us well"

"Why can't I see my son?" asked lord Glover, glaring across at her

"As soon as Gawan was brought before me I had him taken to the dungeon. Nobody has been to see him since, apart from the guards who bring food" said Sansa "I thought given the situation it was best we were all present before anyone spoke to Gawan"

The old man nodded gruffly "When will that be?"

"When we are finished here Gawan will be brought to the great hall where he can present his side of the story. Before that I wish to present the evidence and testimonies against Gawan"

Lord Glover was far from pleased but he said nothing against the plan, it was lord Manderly that spoke "Very well, your Grace. We are keen to see what evidence you have"

Sansa's stomach rolled as she nodded to her sister to proceed. Lord Glover alone would be difficult to deal with, but lord Manderly had been an unwelcome surprise. There was no reason for him to be here, but she could hardly deny him either – he was a member of her council.

Arya reached into the bag of evidence they'd brought, pulling out the stack of letters and sliding them to Maester Wolkan.

"These letters have been coming to Winterfell for weeks addressed to lord Tyrion" said Arya "they stopped around the time Ser Bronn captured Gawan"

"Maester Wolkan, could you read these letters to the council?" asked Sansa

The lords were perfectly capable of reading the letters themselves but Sansa wanted to make sure they heard every vile word. As Maester Wolkan began to read from the first one Tyrion had received Sansa's heart twisted at the cruel words. Tyrion had said he thought it was Gawan writing the letters and having seen Gawan in the Wolfswood Sansa knew he was right – she could hear his voice in the taunting words. By the time Maester Wolkan made it to the last letter, both of the lords had paled considerably.

"It would take a sick mind to write letters such as those" said lord Manderly

"Agreed" said lord Glover "whoever has sent such letters to lord Tyrion wants hanging"

Sansa nodded as Maester Wolkan passed the letters to the lords to view. Lord Manderly's face never changed from disgust at the cruel words, but it was lord Glover she and Arya focused on. It was barely noticeable, but as soon as he saw the first letter recognition flickered through his eyes for the briefest moment.

"Anything familiar?" asked Arya, having noticed the same reaction

"Of course not!" grumbled lord Glover "You think my son would write letters like this? They're unsigned, using no seal"

"We're suggesting nothing" said Sansa "merely presenting the evidence"

"Aye, and what other evidence do you have?" asked lord Glover

The slave collars were presented next with Maester Wolkan giving testimony on the state of the girls when they arrived at Winterfell.

"Your Grace, there is no doubt a slave trade was being operated in the Wolfswood" said lord Manderly spreading his hands "this evidence is unnecessary"

"I believe it's important to cover all bases my lord" said Sansa, pulling out the collar that had been on Tyrion "this collar was around my husband's neck when he was brought back. The clasp was melted shut so he couldn't remove it"

Arya leaned forwards in her seat "I found Tyrion in the Wolfswood and that collar was chained to a post in the snow. They had him tied up like a dog – there was even a sign above the post that said 'the lord of Winterfell'. They humiliated him"

Lord Glover bristled "Whoever took lord Tyrion must be brought to justice. Such acts as you've described are wholly unacceptable"

Sansa curled her fingers into a fist, tension coiling through her. It wasn't enough. Lord Glover would deny all of this, and a rational part of Sansa understood – the evidence was enough to show terrible crimes had taken place but not who committed them.

"Is there anything more?" asked lord Manderly

"There is my lord" she sad, nodding to Arya "After my husband was rescued from the Wolfswood; guards searched the area for evidence. This was brought back to Winterfell"

"A hot iron?" asked lord Glover as Arya passed the implement across to him

"I fail to see how this is evidence of anything your Grace" said lord Manderly "Items such as this are hardly unusual in the North, though the shape at the end is rather odd"

"I bring this as evidence my lords, because that shape on the end is burned into the back of my husband's shoulder"

Lord Glover dropped the hot iron onto the table as if it were on fire "You can't be serious"

Maester Wolkan answered "Regrettably it is true. I tended to lord Tyrion when he was brought back to Winterfell, and I can confirm he was branded on the back of his left shoulder in that shape"

To their credit both of the lords looked thoroughly disgusted at the evidence they had seen. They might not believe Gawan Glover and Robin Flint were responsible but they didn't support the cruelty Tyrion had endured either.

"We heard lord Tyrion was badly injured following the Wolfswood" said lord Manderly "Rumours are running wild throughout the North - it would be helpful to establish the facts"

"Certainly" agreed Sansa "Maester Wolkan will give you his full account, and there are a few witness accounts to hear"

Sansa was relieved Tyrion wasn't here to relive this. Maester Wolkan spoke about the poor condition Tyrion had been in, including every injury and his subsequent illness.

"The damage I saw was shocking my lords" said the old man "and it was quite deliberate - of that there is no doubt. The manner of his injuries is too specific to have been accidental"

The long weeks Tyrion had spent recovering drifted through her mind as Wolkan spoke; Tyrion had been so ashamed. The Wolfswood had left him unable to feed, clothe or wash himself – yet these lords had brushed his suffering off as Tyrion looking fine now. They hadn't been here to see how badly hurt he was; or held him when nightmares woke him in the night. It was a testament to her husband's strength that he looked so well now, but it had been a hard won battle.

Cayn was called in as a witness along with two other guards who had been present in the Godswood.

"Grey Worm went to kill him when we showed up" explained Cayn "we were too far away to stop him"

"What saved lord Tyrion then?" asked lord Glover

"The direwolf" said Arya "I was at the front when we reached Tyrion. The direwolf pup jumped from the bushes and attacked Grey Worm. The spear sliced Tyrion but it didn't impale him"

Lord Manderly eyed the guards "Was there anyone else around lord Tyrion?"

An older guard answered "No my lord. Lord Tyrion was badly hurt but he did say it was Robin Flint and Gawan Glover who hurt him"

"Did you see any evidence either of those lords were there?" barked lord Glover, his eyes igniting at the accusation against his son

"No, my lord - though several of the rescued women mentioned the names Robin and Gawan"

"Thank you for your testimony" said Sansa, inclining her head to the guards "you may leave"

A letter from the captain of lord Cerwyn's guard was read out by Maester Wolkan that detailed the condition of lord Tyrion when he was found and the used state of the farmhouse. Every bit of evidence they had was brought before lord Glover and lord Manderly, but Sansa knew without asking neither believed Robin or Gawan were responsible. Arya had realised the same; her mouth a grim line as she sat beside her.

Lord Glover sighed, rubbing his chin "Your Grace, it is clear lord Tyrion has suffered a terrible ordeal - and you have the support of my house in finding justice for him. Yet I've seen nothing that implicates my son or lord Flint. There is nothing more than two first names heard by wildings and lord Tyrion's assertion he saw them. Given the injuries he suffered is lord Tyrion's word even reliable?"

Lord Manderly nodded "I fear I must agree, your Grace. It's clear dark deeds took place in the Wolfswood, but there is no true evidence of who committed these acts"

Sansa swallowed down the lump in her throat, determined not to focus on her failure. There was still Gawan - still a chance he would incriminate himself. As much as she wanted to focus on what lay ahead, her mind kept flitting back to Tyrion's face when he saw the hot iron.

'Does it really look like that?'

She knew Tyrion had looked at it in the mirror, but the placement on his shoulder made it difficult to see clearly. Seeing the hot iron had given him an up close view of the mark, and Sansa had been forced to tell him the truth - that it looked exactly like the piece of metal that had made it.

Hearing everything Tyrion had endured once again was torturous, but it steeled her determination to see justice was carried. Glancing at Arya, she saw her resolve mirrored in her sister's grey eyes.


"What does that word say?" asked Tyrion, pointing to a spot in the battered book

The little boy furrowed his brow in concentration "cas-tle"

"Good lad" said Tyrion, smiling at Ethan "You know what a castle is?"

He nodded excitedly "Winterfell!"

"Exactly" he said

"Well done Ethan" said Nessa, clapping at her little brothers reading skills

"Dinner's nearly ready" called Tess, bustling about in the tiny kitchen

Tyrion hadn't meant to stay for dinner or even go into Nessa's house but after a long afternoon of meetings; hearing petitions and dealing with business in the village, it had been impossible to refuse Tess's invitation of warming himself by the hearth when he brought Nessa home. That had quickly spiralled into Lyon flopping down for a nap while Ethan and Nessa dragged him into their games. Over the past few months Nessa's reading had rapidly improved and she'd attempted to teach her little brother, despite the boy being two years old - or nearly three as Ethan proudly told him.

"You're getting very good" said Tyrion, as Ethan's smile widened "Nessa's teaching you very well"

"I practice lots!" he said, his mop of dark hair bobbing up and down

It never ceased to amaze Tyrion how these children accepted him so easily. After a couple of games Ethan had pulled out one of the few battered children's books they had, asking Tyrion to read it to him. When Tyrion had first met Nessa the girl had been able to read a few words she'd learned from her father. According to Tess her husband had been able to read a little and would guess the words he couldn't decipher from the worn out books.

"He liked to learn new things" Tess had once told him "A lot like Nessa really"

As much as Tyrion loved visiting Nessa's family and enjoying the warmth they so easily gave to him he always felt somewhat guilty. Like most of the families in the villages they were quite poor - but whatever they had they wanted to share with him.

The wooden table was battered and slightly unbalanced but the children eagerly pulled him towards it at the sound of dinner.

"You not got much food Tyrion" said Nessa, staring gravely at his small plate. Tess had insisted he join them for dinner, but he'd also insisted on not eating much - Winterfell was full of food and Tess's family struggled enough.

He smiled at her "I'll be eating with Sansa later on, when she's finished her duties"

"Queen says if you don't eat I gotta tell her"

Tyrion raised an eyebrow "My own squire working against me!"

"For your own good Tyrion" said Nessa, the adult words sounding strange in her childish voice "Queen Sansa says you got sick cause you didn't eat and sleep properly"

"You sick?" asked Ethan, his brown eyes filling with concern

"I'm perfectly fine" he told the boy, glancing sideways at Nessa "I thought you were afraid of Sansa?"

"She's not so scary"

"Ah, I see. Would you rather squire for Sansa?"

The girl's eyes widened "No! I wanna serve you"

"You'd rather serve a grumpy dwarf than a Queen?"

She nodded eagerly "I don't wanna serve the Queen – I'm gonna be your squire forever"

Warmth flooded Tyrion's chest "Then I will be very well served"

After the confrontation with lord Glover this morning visiting Nessa and her family was a welcome distraction. As much as he hated to admit it the old lord's words had cut him to the bone, sending him into a spiral of panic that the rest of the North might share his view. The last thing Tyrion wanted to do was cause more problems for Sansa, and as much as he wished he could be there to support her now part of him accepted it was for the best. Tyrion had thought he was ready to face the Wolfswood – that the slow weeks of healing had allowed him to move on from what had happened. Unfortunately this morning had proven only that his body had healed while his mind hadn't. Ever since Gawan arrived at Winterfell, Tyrion's dreams had taken a bloody turn. Even walking through the castle he jumped at every shadow – as if Gawan had slipped free from the dungeon to find him.

When the plates had been completely cleaned of food, Tyrion insisted on helping Tess clean up while the children doted on Lyon.

"Nessa and Ethan are rather attached" observed Tess, pointing him towards the cupboard her few plates were stored in

"Lyon loves the attention" said Tyrion "He's been rather sad since King Bran's party left – he quite enjoyed all the ear rubs and attention"

"They enjoy giving Lyon their attention" she agreed "but I meant they were attached to you"

"I am something of a novelty"

Tess laughed lightly "They adore you"

Tyrion's face flushed at her words but it was difficult to deny it. Ethan had all but climbed into his lap when they were reading, while Nessa had been lying against him too. Nessa was his squire and when she was fulfilling her duties she was as stoic and dependable as every other Northerner. As soon as she was back with her family she was a child again – a child who cared a great deal for him. Even little Ethan had followed his sister's lead, asking him to play or read whenever he saw him. Never had Tyrion expected to find such acceptance in the North, and he'd be lying if Nessa and Ethan didn't remind him of his own dearly departed niece and nephew. It had been years since he last saw them, but the pain of their deaths still hurt. It was impossible to not miss the way Myrcella would happily wrap her arms around him – never ashamed of her dwarf uncle. Or how Tommen would eagerly ask him for stories when his mother wasn't around; his nephew would have loved Lyon.

A smile pulled at Tyrion's mouth as the children eagerly waved him over to join their game. What did it matter if the other lords and ladies of the North didn't like him? His duty was to Winterfell and its people. All he had to do with the other lords was sit by the Queen's side as her dutiful husband. If the Starks and the people of Winterfell accepted him, did he really care what a couple of stuffy old lords thought?


Bile crawled up Sansa's throat as Gawan Glover was brought into the great hall. The crown rested heavily on her head as she sat the throne. Arya sat to her left while lord Glover and lord Manderly were in seats over to her right. Winterfell guards lined the hall with several of lord Glover's guards also present. Maester Wolkan was positioned at a small desk in the corner, recording notes.

Gawan's hands were in chains as he stood before the throne, his dark hair scruffy and overgrown – he had the look of a man who'd been living off the land for weeks.

"Gawan of house Glover" called the Queen, her voice echoing around the hall "You are accused of kidnapping, slavery, torture and treason. At my order you were taken prisoner to answer for these crimes. If you are found guilty you will face the consequences of your actions"

Her voice echoed around the hall, though her eyes landed on the black banners with the golden lion mixed between her Stark banners. Tyrion had suggested earlier they take them down so as not to further aggravate lord Glover and lord Manderly but Sansa wouldn't hear of it. He was the lord of Winterfell and she was proud to display his sigil. Reluctantly, she dragged her eyes back to Gawan; steeling herself to lay out the full accusations against him.

"Lord Tyrion gave his testimony to the council this morning where he claimed he was kidnapped between the village and Winterfell and taken to the Wolfswood. He further claimed you and Robin Flint held him prisoner along with forty women you intended to sell into slavery" she continued, knowing Tyrion's words were the truth but bound by her role as Queen to be impartial "Lord Tyrion helped these women escape before he was recaptured, at which point he claims you and Robin Flint tortured him for days before leaving him at the mercy of the Unsullied Captain Grey Worm. How do you answer these accusations?"

"Queen Sansa" said Gawan, dropping to one knee "I beg your forgiveness"

Sansa's heart leapt "You confess to these charges?"

"No, your Grace" he said, raising his shaggy head "Robin and I were hunting when we heard lord Tyrion had disappeared. Of course we made to return to Winterfell to assist you in searching for him, but then we heard there was a warrant out for us and we'd been named as lord Tyrion's kidnappers"

Ice curled through Sansa's stomach as she stared down at her former friend. His mouth was turned downwards and his eyes heavy with guilt as he knelt before the throne – the sight sickened her, for Sansa knew it was nothing more than a thin mask. She'd seen the Wolfswood herself, she'd seen this beast brutalise Tyrion. Yet the boy standing before her was playing the part he was expected to – and lord Glover was readily buying into it.

"Why did you not return home?" asked lord Glover, straightening in his seat to hear his son's excuse

Gawan stood once more "Father, I'm sorry – but I panicked. Lord Tyrion is the Queen's husband and I know how she cares for him. Robin and I didn't think anyone would believe our word over his"

Lord Glover nodded, struggling to hide the smirk on his face "It was immature to run, but given lord Tyrion's status I can understand your concern"

"It wasn't only lord Tyrion who named you as present in the Wolfswood" cut in Sansa "My husband rescued forty women who were to be sold into slavery – a mixture of wildings and girls from the local villages. The names they heard while held prisoner were Robin and Gawan. They said these men sounded highborn"

Gawan shook his head "I'm sorry your Grace, I know nothing about that – only that lord Tyrion was investigating the stories of missing girls"

"Grey Worm was taken prisoner in the Wolfswood, but unfortunately escaped a few days ago" said Sansa, unable to hide the bitterness in her tone "He was questioned several times and claimed he made a deal with you and Robin to buy Tyrion"

"Your Grace, the word of a foreign savage is hardly reliable - let alone one that isn't here to give his own testimony" said lord Glover, glaring sideways at her

Arya stiffened next to her, her voice barely a whisper "We know who's to blame for that"

"Queen Sansa, I swear to you I've never met anyone called Grey Worm nor would I attempt to sell the lord of Winterfell. To do so would be treason and my loyalty is to you, your Grace"

A bead of sweat trickled down Sansa's spine. This story was rehearsed; designed to put on a show that would fool the lords and make Tyrion look a liar. No matter how much Sansa told Tyrion he was one of them, old loyalty ran deep in the North; Gawan's word would hold more weight with many houses.

Sansa breathed in, forcing her voice to remain neutral "To be clear you deny running a slavery business in the Wolfswood and kidnapping innocent women?"

"Yes, your Grace"

"You deny kidnapping the lord of Winterfell - Tyrion Lannister?"

"I do"

"You deny the allegations you held Tyrion Lannister prisoner and tortured him for days, while plotting with Robin Flint to sell him to the Unsullied Captain Grey Worm?"

"Yes, your Grace" said Gawan, glancing around the hall "Might I ask how lord Tyrion fares? I heard he'd been badly hurt"

Sansa's knuckles turned white as Gawan looked innocently up at her. She could see it in his eyes; the creature was taunting her.

"Your answers have been noted" said Sansa stiffly

"Your Grace, I don't believe Gawan had anything to do with this" said lord Manderly, leaning forwards to catch her eye

Lord Glover nodded eagerly "He's explained things well enough. Hiding from the crown was stupid, but he's young. Given what he was accused of it was understandable he was scared"

Sansa ignored him, turning back to Gawan "You have nothing else to say?"

"What else can he say?" snapped lord Glover "The Lannister's clearly lying"

"Watch yourself" she warned

"Your Grace-"

"It's alright father" cut in Gawan "I've heard lord Tyrion suffered terrible things – enough to break any man. I didn't treat him well when he arrived at Winterfell, it's understandable he views me as an enemy. I'd like to apologise to him if possible, for the jokes I made at his expense. I had nothing to do with what happened in the Wolfswood, but I've heard trauma can change a man. Whatever help I can offer is yours"

Bile burned hotly at the back of Sansa's throat. She'd spent enough time around liars to see recognise them, yet Gawan had lived under her roof for months without her seeing through him. The walls of ice she'd built to protect herself had blinded her to everything, but now they were gone she could see Gawan for what he really was; another Ramsay, another Joffrey – another monster to threaten her family.

The hall fell silent awaiting her verdict. She could give the order now and Arya would kill Gawan before anyone could stop her. There were enough Winterfell guards in the room to defend her and Arya from lord Glover, lord Manderly and their men. The beast could be gone in a minute – but it would unleash chaos across the North.

"You have given your side of the story, and lord Tyrion has given his" said Sansa "Evidence was presented to the council earlier today which neither proved nor disproved your innocence. As Queen I must consider all that is brought to me equally and impartially, therefore you will remain a prisoner of the crown until I have made my decision"

Lord Glover spun to her, his face etched in anger "My son is innocent"

The words hurt Sansa's throat as they left her mouth "It appears so. Nevertheless this situation has drawn attention from across the North. I would like the time to review everything in detail before I send official word of my ruling to the other houses"

The old lord's mouth turned up at the corner "Of course, your Grace – I'm sure Gawan understands?"

"Certainly Father. Whatever you need from me your Grace" he said, inclining his head "please pass on my best wishes to lord Tyrion"

Sansa signalled for the guards to remove Gawan, her stomach churning as he left. Lord Glover had brightened considerably at the knowledge his son and heir would likely be freed in a couple of days. That wouldn't happen – Gawan would never leave Winterfell, but Sansa was running out of options that wouldn't start a war.


Tyrion tossed and squirmed on the bed, fear surging through him. He shot awake, his eyes darting around the dark room.

It was just a dream; a terrible nightmare.

"Sansa?" he said, rubbing his eyes "Are you awake?"

He knew it was selfish, but his dream had been horrible. Tyrion turned on his side to wake Sansa, seeking the warmth and comfort only she could provide.

He reached across, lightly shaking her "Sansa?"

There was something damp beneath his hand as he shook Sansa. Before he could work out what it was a torch flickered to life across the room, illuminating the pool of blood spread over the still Queen.

"No!" he cried, his heart shattering as he shook her "Sansa, wake up!"

Tyrion pushed the sheets against the wounds but her body was a mess of stab wounds and it was far too late. Her face was pale and still; the light in her blue eyes permanently extinguished as they stared at the ceiling.

"Don't leave me" he begged, cradling her cold face as tears spilled from his eyes

The torch at the side of the room moved closer to the bed, until Tyrion could see the grinning face of Gawan Glover "I'll never leave you my pet. It's just us now"

Tyrion jerked upright in bed, his eyes flying open. Desperately he turned on his side to check on Sansa. The pounding of his heart relaxed somewhat at the sight of her chest rising and falling steadily. The room wasn't as dark as in his dream. Moonlight slipped in through the window, casting a soft glow over his sleeping wife.

It was just another dream; Sansa was fine.

He relaxed a little, propping himself up to watch Sansa sleep. Gawan was like a ghost haunting his every move. He hadn't seen the cruel boy at all since he arrived at Winterfell but his presence followed him like a dark cloud. Dreams like that had become the norm the last few nights.

Tyrion reached out, tracing his hand down Sansa's face and relishing the warmth he found there.

The trial hadn't gone well.

Sansa had spared few words for it when she eventually returned to their chambers, but he suspected that was for his benefit. It wasn't fair that Sansa had to play politics like this. She had seen the Wolfswood and knew the truth, but without physical evidence she was stuck between letting Gawan go free and starting a war.

"I love you" he whispered softly "I'd do anything for you"

Tyrion hated how powerless he was to help Sansa. The Queen never complained about the burden of ruling or lost her patience with him when he was weak - she took everything in her stride as a true Queen.

The imagery of his dream was impossible to shake. Every shadow seemed to contain Gawan's smirking face, just waiting for him to close his eyes before killing what remained of his heart. Tyrion scooted closer to Sansa, tugging the covers over them as he gently laid his head on her chest, draping his arm across her. Sansa didn't seem to mind if he got close to her in the bed, and didn't wake as he positioned himself. Her heartbeat sang in his ear as he closed his eyes.

"I'll protect you" he murmured "I promise"

It might have been a nightmare, but Tyrion would never rest unless he knew Sansa was safe. This way, if anyone wanted to kill Sansa they'd have to go through him first.


When Sansa stirred to life in the early morning sun the first thing she noticed was the weight on her. For the briefest moment panic flashed through her that she was in bed with Ramsay. Her eyes darted open, quickly noticing the mess of golden curls brushing against her face. The sudden tension eased out of Sansa at the sight of her husband lying on top of her.

For the last few days she'd woken to Tyrion cuddling against her, and while she loved having him so close Sansa suspected it was being driven by nightmares. Unlike the early days of their marriage Tyrion no longer curled up as far from her as possible, though he didn't usually cling to her either – unless they both fell asleep like that.

Something had clearly upset him in the night. Tyrion's head was just below her jaw while his right arm was draped across her. The lord of Winterfell was fast asleep, a frown on his face as he drooled onto her shift. If Sansa needed further evidence of Tyrion's inner distress she needn't look any further than the direwolf lying across her husband. While Tyrion was half on top or her, Lyon was lying across him – also managing to drool on her shift.

"My love you can share your fears with me" she whispered, extracting her hand from the covers to brush through the back of Tyrion's hair

After Gawan's trial yesterday Sansa hadn't had any more energy to spare on the cruel boy. Everything had happened as she feared it would, leaving her little option but to kill Gawan without the other lords agreement. At best it would result in a war with house Glover and possibly house Manderly – at worst the North would tear itself apart and a rebellion would rise against her.

There were no good options and eager to escape from the situation she'd asked Tyrion to tell her about his day instead. Mercifully he seemed to understand her need for a break and had launched into a cheerful tale of what he'd spent his afternoon doing.

In the light of day she reluctantly turned her mind back to the problem of Gawan. There had to be something she'd missed. Bran had shown her the Wolfswood saying it was the only help he could offer and there was something she was supposed to see – yet Sansa had no idea what. After the way lord Glover had spoken to Tyrion yesterday she'd thought Bran's reason was to simply show her the Wolfswood so she knew the truth. Somehow it didn't seem quite right; Sansa hadn't doubted Tyrion in the first place.

Gawan hadn't made any mistakes yesterday. Everything he'd said had been believable, giving her and Arya nothing to work with. His excuse for hiding all these weeks was a bit flimsy but he'd played the part of naive young man well enough to convince his father and lord Manderly. Disgust stirred in Sansa; Gawan had been brazen enough to fake sympathy for Tyrion - going so far as to ask her to pass on his best wishes. As if she'd do that to her husband; it would make a mockery of everything Gawan had done to him.

"You were right" she breathed, gently stroking Tyrion's face "Gawan is like Joffrey"

It seemed a lifetime ago when she'd asked Tyrion his opinion on her potential suitors before telling him he would be her husband. His analysis of the young lords had been sharp and accurate. Joffrey, like Gawan, had been good at wearing a mask in public, hiding the monster beneath it all. She'd seen the way Joffrey acted around Margaery and her family, compared to the way he acted around her. As soon as they were out of sight Joffrey's thin mask had crumbled and she saw his real face. Gawan was no different. The young lord who'd tried to win her affection and the monster who tortured Tyrion for fun were like two completely different people.

Her hand stilled against Tyrion as her heartbeat sped up.

Sansa knew monsters better than anyone. Ramsay and Joffrey had been quite different, but beneath it all they were the same – all monsters were.


Sansa's blue eyes bubbled with concern as she watched him "Are you sure about this?"

Tyrion nodded, forcing a smile for Sansa "Quite sure"

Arya patted his back reassuringly "You've got this Tyrion. You're a lion and he's nothing"

All morning they'd talked about this and Tyrion had been set on doing it - yet now the time had come his fears were running rampant. He was the lord of Winterfell; there was no reason for him to be afraid of Gawan. The concern on Sansa's face was hardly helping matters.

"Maybe this isn't a good idea" said Sansa, biting her lip

"I need to do this Sansa" he said, fumbling to remove the sword from his hip - along with Bronn's dagger.

"Here, let me do it" said Arya, tugging him over and deftly removing the weapons

Tyrion was keenly aware of the loss of his sword and the subsequent vulnerability spreading through him. It was the smart thing to do - bringing weapons to see Gawan Glover wasn't a good idea. If the cruel boy got hold of one there was no telling what he could do.

"Bring Lyon with you" said Sansa

"He's quite prepared"

Arya grinned supportively at him "Don't worry Tyrion - you'll be fine"

The golden wolf barked in agreement, brushing against his side. Tyrion tried to bring his mind under control. He had to do this, no matter how much the thought made his stomach twist. When he'd made the decision Sansa and Arya had insisted on getting him ready. His tunic had been changed for one covered in golden lions, his hair had been brushed and Arya had spent the last twenty minutes giving him a pep talk.

He'd intended to wear his weapons as he was now in the habit of doing; but Arya had gently pointed out it might not be a good idea.

"You're sure?" asked Sansa, for what could have been the tenth time

"You worry too much dear wife" he said "It'll be fine"

"That's the spirit" said Arya, squeezing his shoulder "You're the lord of Winterfell - the Queen's husband. Show him you're a lion Tyrion"

She stepped back as Sansa bent down to meet his eye level. The Queen brushed her hands over his shoulders, smoothing out his tunic.

"I'll be fine" he promised, giving her a half-smile

"I know you will" she said "my brave husband"

Sansa reached into the folds of her gown before placing her hand over his chest. She kissed his forehead before stepping back, leaving a silver direwolf pin on his tunic.

"You'll always be a lion" she said, smiling "but you're a wolf too"

Tyrion's throat tightened at the gesture, heat pricking at the back of his eyes "Thank you"

"We'll see you later" said Arya, heading to the door.

Sansa hesitated a moment later before following her sister, leaving just Tyrion and Lyon in their chambers. The direwolf whined, tapping his paws impatiently.

"Just a moment" said Tyrion, moving to the mirror in the corner of the room

It was something he tended to avoid, but today he wanted to see himself. Studying his reflection, Tyrion thought perhaps he didn't look as bad as he imagined. His golden hair had grown out since the Wolfswood, looking far less severe than it had originally been cut. The scar across his face was still quite red, but no longer as raw looking. Sansa had insisted he wear his good clothes - a show of power she called it. The black tunic fit him well and the golden lions stood out across the sleeves and chest. His eyes were drawn to the silver pin gleaming above his heart; where the hand of the Queen badge had once sat. At one time that pin had meant the most to him, but now it seemed trivial compared to the direwolf that made it clear to all he was part of the Stark family.

Turning away from the mirror, Tyrion called to his friend "Ready Lyon?"

Winterfell hummed with activity as Tyrion made his way through its many corridors. Every step brought him closer to facing the creature that haunted his dreams, causing his heart to beat quicker in his chest. When the door to the dungeon finally came into view Tyrion's hands were trembling.

"My lord" greeted the two guards on the door

Tyrion inclined his head in greeting "I'm here to see Gawan Glover"

He was the lord of Winterfell and short of an order from Sansa the guards would obey him. The two men stood aside, leaving Tyrion to descend into the dungeon with only Lyon at his heels. A few torches in the wall cast an orange glow around the area as he moved past the empty cells to the one Grey Worm had occupied several days ago. Gawan's cell was marginally better lit than the others, and given his status he'd been given a thicker blanket to cover the thin bed on one side of the room.

Tyrion planted his feet outside the bars of the cell, curling his hands into fists as he saw Gawan. The young lord was wearing ragged breeches with his grey tunic hanging open over his shift. The dark scraggy beard covering his face had grown out a little, as had his wild hair - he was a far cry from the young man who'd tried to win the Queen's hand, but this Gawan looked far more real.

The boy was lying on the bed, though he lifted his head at the sound of his visitor.

"Lord Tyrion" he said, his dark eyes lighting up in surprise "it's good to see you"

Tyrion's skin crawled as Gawan pushed up from the bed, coming to stand at the bars of the cell.

"It's nice to see you where you belong" said Tyrion

Gawan wasn't completely stupid; he pushed his head against the bars glancing into the darkness of the corridor.

"We're quite alone" said Tyrion, gesturing to Lyon behind him "Apart from my friend here"

The direwolf had followed Tyrion's instruction to sit against the back wall, though a growl erupted from him at Gawan's gaze.

"I heard rumours you had a direwolf" snorted Gawan "Is that thing supposed to scare me?"

"Wolves are quite vicious"

"That thing's as runty as you"

"Grey Worm lost a couple of fingers to him" said Tyrion

Gawan appeared to be satisfied they were alone, for when he turned his gaze back to Tyrion all traces of the young lord were gone - replaced by the monster that lurked beneath.

"Look at you - all dressed up like a proper little lord" said Gawan "Does Sansa let you sleep in the bed, or is it on the floor like the docile little lion you are?"

"That's not really your concern"

"Isn't it?" he said, grinning at him "You're my pet, not Sansa's - when I'm free I'll train you properly this time"

Tyrion's stomach rolled "I'm not your pet"

"Yes you are" he said "I wondered where you were hiding. I asked Sansa to pass on my best wishes"

Tyrion forced his voice to be steady "I am the lord of Winterfell and you are nothing"

Gawan's face twisted into a snarl "Big words for such a little man. I know you're afraid of me"

"You're nothing more than a pretender. My own nephew was a mad King - you think you scare me boy?"

Before Tyrion could react, Gawan's hand shot out between the bars, grabbing a handful of his tunic and dragging him in.

"I know I scare you" he said, cruelty dancing in his dark eyes "Nobody believes you Lannister. I'm surprised you told them what happened in the Wolfswood, but I guess an imp has no shame - I'm more surprised Sansa believed you"

"I told them the truth - that you're a monster"

"What good did it do you? I'll leave here and return to Deepwood Motte. Sansa needs my father's support more than she needs to keep her pet lion happy"

Panic rose in Tyrion as he was trapped against the bars "Given up on your slavery business then? Was that before or after Robin abandoned you?"

"Robin didn't abandon me imp - we had different tasks"

"He didn't want his mad dog around you mean"

Gawan's hand tightened, rattling him against the bars "Such disrespect. Robin will be King and then I'll be free to do as I like. No more duty or listening to father prattle on. The wolves will die slowly, but not you - you'll be my pet"

"You think your father and the North will just accept that?"

"They'll have no choice. The icy bitch isn't as popular as she thinks - too much time in the south" he said "Robin will rule and I can restart our slave trade - starting with the girls you let go"

"You have a sister a similar age to those girls. You actually think your father will let you do that?"

Gawan's face turned downwards "My father won't be around to stop me, and my sister will be sold too. Highborn girls get the best price"

"You're sick" said Tyrion, squirming in the mad boy's grip "Sansa trusted you"

"Enough about the bloody Queen - you're boring me" said Gawan, his eyes studying him like a predator "I'm glad Grey Worm didn't kill you. It bothered me that you never screamed during our time together - I'd like to hear a lion cry"

"Let go of me" said Tyrion, pulling back from Gawan's grip

The boy tightened his hold, lifting Tyrion so he was on his toes. His face twisted into a smirk "I'll train you properly this time pet"

The feeble strength Tyrion had pulled together to come down here was rapidly crumbling under his fear. How could it not, when he was face to face with one of the monsters that haunted him? Gawan was going to go free - he was going to kill his family.

Tyrion was so trapped in the terror spreading through him he didn't notice Gawan's beaming smile until a hand closed around his groin.

"You'll be much more obedient when all this is gone" said Gawan, squeezing his manhood "Don't worry, I've been practicing - or I was until that bastard sellsword found me"

Trapped against the bars of the cell with Gawan's hand grabbing his breeches, a new emotion raged through Tyrion that overwhelmed his fear. Before he realised what he was doing, Tyrion had pulled his right hand back, firing it through the bars and into the face of Gawan Glover. The mad boy reeled back as blood spurted from his nose, a maniacal laugh escaping him.

"That all you've got imp?"

Tyrion stumbled back from the bars, his hands shaking as he reached for the key in his tunic pocket. Lyon lurched towards him, a low growl rumbling in his throat.

"Stay" said Tyrion, throwing himself at the lock and ramming the key inside

He was vauely aware of Lyon reluctantly returning to his place, but Tyrion's focus was on the laughing boy in the cell. The lock fell open with a click as Tyrion staggered into the cramped space, dragging the cell door shut behind him. The lock was still open but it didn't matter - the guards on the door wouldn't allow Gawan past.

Tyrion's breath came in short bursts as he stared at Gawan Glover. Blood covered his face and had splattered onto his tunic, but Gawan was still grinning.

"You'll need to be punished for that" laughed Gawan

"Shut up" growled Tyrion, launching himself at Gawan

The boy laughed as if Tyrion were no more than a child having a temper tantrum. The lord of Winterfell aimed for his knees, toppling the young lord who crashed onto his back against the floor.

As soon as he was down Tyrion scrambled on top of him, driving his fist into the boy's face "I'm not your pet!"

Gawan's head jerked back under the force of the blow, though it did nothing to erase the smile from his face.

"Yes you are" sang Gawan, grabbing at Tyrion's shoulders "I'll enjoy hearing you cry"

"Shut up!"

Gawan grunted as he struggled to avoid the blows "You're not as weak as I remember imp - still no match for a real man though"

They grappled on the ground, Tyrion landing several more punches until Gawan gained the upper hand. Lyon had abandoned his post, barking furiously at the bars that stopped him reaching his master. Gawan's face was covered in blood as he finally dislodged Tyrion, immediately throwing his weight on top of him

"You'll always be my pet" mocked Gawan, forcing Tyrion flat on his stomach as his hands clawed at his tunic "my mark will always be on you"

The direwolf pin pressed against Tyrion's chest as he struggled to free himself. It was hopeless - he might have taken Gawan by surprise but the boy's weight was too much to move. Gawan's hand had just made contact with the brand on his shoulder when the weight suddenly left him. Tyrion raised his head to see lord Glover had lifted his son by the front of his shift and slammed him against the wall of the cell. Lyon's growl drew Tyrion's attention to the door of the cell where Sansa, Arya and lord Manderly stood. The little wolf darted to his side, licking his face and standing between him and Gawan.

"Father..." stammered Gawan, the colour draining from his face "he attacked me"

The old lord slammed him against the wall "Enough lies!"

"No, father – I wouldn't..."

"You disgrace yourself, your family - you make a fool of me"

Tyrion crawled to his knees as Arya's hand closed around his arm pulling him to his feet. Sansa's attention was on Gawan and his father but her eyes kept darting to him in concern. Tyrion smiled shakily at her, signalling he was ok.

"Father it's not what it looks like" tried Gawan

Robett Glover was shaking with anger as he stared down his son.

"We saw everything!" he roared "We were in the passage behind your cell. We all heard exactly what you said - we saw exactly what happened!"

Gawan's face contorted at the knowledge he'd been tricked, his eyes darting over his father's shoulder to find Tyrion.

"You little bastard!" snarled Gawan

"Don't blame him for what you've done – you've brought this on yourself!" said lord Glover, pressing Gawan tighter against the wall "I defended you; I'd have gone to war for you"

"The imp's lying" tried Gawan "Sansa and Arya too – they're out to get me!"

Lord Glover's voice dropped to a cold whisper "Still you dishonour me"

Tyrion's mouth twitched upwards as he tried to get his ragged breathing under control. Arya had her hand on needle, but it was hardly necessary - lord Glover was restraining his son. Her exploration of the tunnels had led to the discovery of a narrow passage that ran just behind and slightly above the cells. Presumably it had once been used to spy on prisoners and it had certainly saved them. Small gaps in the top of the brickwork were enough for the lords to see and hear everything that had just happened – hardly noticeable unless you were looking for them.

"Is this enough evidence my lords?" asked Sansa, her blue eyes icy as she looked at Gawan

"Certainly" said lord Manderly, hovering just at the edge of the cell as though to disassociate with lord Glover

"Father, please…" tried Gawan

Lord Glover ignored him, turning to the Queen "Yes, your Grace"

"Father, they'll kill me" pleaded Gawan

Lord Glover dropped Gawan, disgust curling over his mouth as he moved out of the cell. Tyrion and Arya quickly followed with Lyon, making sure the door was locked behind them. The boy's bloodied face appeared at the bars, panic spreading through his eyes as he followed his father's retreating form.

"I'm your son!" he shouted

The old lord turned, his voice devoid of emotion "I have no son"


Sansa shifted in her seat, waiting impatiently for lord Manderly to finish speaking. It had been about an hour since the incident with Gawan and the Queen was desperate to see her husband. As soon as they left the dungeon lord Glover had asked to be excused.

"You understand that Gawan has confessed to the charges and will face the punishment?" she'd said

"Will you kill him?" he'd asked, his voice empty

"He will die"

The old lord had nodded "Good. I don't ever want to see that beast again"

Gawan's conversation with Tyrion had gone better than Sansa could have hoped. The boy might have been able to wear a mask in public, but Sansa knew monsters – as soon as he was alone with his victim the real Gawan had come out. It hadn't taken much provoking for him to start taunting Tyrion, carelessly confessing to the horrors he'd committed. Gawan had effectively signed his own death warrant. Getting lord Glover and lord Manderly to agree to the plan hadn't been easy, but lord Glover had truly believed his son was innocent. Watching his face change as he saw what his heir really was had been both vindicating and saddening. Lord Glover seemed to age a decade as they observed Gawan and Tyrion.

The biggest political problem had been resolved, but there were several smaller issues to address before Gawan died. Looking at lord Glover's tired face she'd known it was a conversation that could wait until the next day.

Her biggest concern was Tyrion. Blood was splattered across his tunic and he'd been white as a sheet when they emerged from the dungeon. Sansa had wanted nothing more than to take him upstairs and check he was ok, but her duty as Queen had held her captive. Tyrion had quietly asked if he could go as soon as lord Glover was gone and she'd quickly agreed with the promise to be there soon. Watching him wander down the corridor with Lyon was one of the hardest things she'd done, but if she'd given into her instincts and pulled Tyrion into her arms then and there she'd have never let go.

It wasn't easy but Sansa forced her mind to focus on more practical matters for the next hour. Maester Wolkan had been summoned to write out a statement lord Glover would be asked to sign. Arya and lord Manderly had joined her to ensure the events depicted in the statement were accurate – in effect it was a witness statement and it needed to be done as quickly as possible.

"Anything else your Grace?" asked lord Manderly, as the Maester finished his notes

"Not today" she said "The council will meet tomorrow to decide on how we proceed, but there's been enough done today"

"Quite so, your Grace" he agreed, his chins wobbling "I fear lord Glover will need some time to deal with this"

Arya nodded "Finding out your son is a depraved monster must be difficult"

"That will be all, my lord" said Sansa, pushing up from her chair "I appreciate your time"

The old lord took the hint, hurrying to his feet "Of course your Grace"

"I shall compile these notes into a proper statement your Grace" said Wolkan "Is lord Tyrion in need of my services?"

Sansa shook her head "Thank you Maester, but I will take care of him. I shall summon you if there are any issues"

The old man bowed his head, his chain clinking as he gathered up the notes and followed lord Manderly out the door. Sansa and Arya quickly followed, relief flooding the Queen that she could remove her crown for the remainder of the day.

"That was a clever plan" said Arya

"I'm only sorry it asked so much of Tyrion" said Sansa

"I think he needed it. Punching Gawan must have been a relief" said Arya, her eyes narrowing "The way Gawan spoke to him…"

"I know" said Sansa "That was the Gawan I saw in the Wolfswood. I think that's what I was supposed to see"

"I could have seen that. Bran didn't have to make you do it"

Sansa shook her head as they made their way upstairs "No, it had to be me. I spent a long time around monsters like Gawan - I know what they want. It bothered Gawan in the Wolfswood that he couldn't get a reaction out of Tyrion; letting him see all his torture hadn't had any effect would infuriate him"

That wasn't entirely true - they both knew the Wolfswood had deeply affected Tyrion, but Gawan wouldn't look beyond the image Tyrion had projected. He'd seen a strong lord unbothered by his experience and it had freed the beast in Gawan.

"Are you coming to see Tyrion?" asked Sansa as they turned down the corridor towards the family rooms

"I would, but I'm fairly sure it's you he'll want" said Arya, turning towards her rooms "tell him I'll see him in the morning and to put some ice on his hand"

"Ice?"

"Yes, ice - Gawan has a thick head"

Arya said nothing more as she disappeared down the corridor, leaving Sansa to hurry towards her own chambers. The Queen took a brief detour to find a servant, giving the woman instructions to bring ice and other supplies to their chambers before finally reaching the door. Sansa eased it open, her eyes searching for her husband.

The lord of Winterfell was sat in the small window ledge, gazing across the North with Lyon lying across his lap.

He turned at the sound of the door opening, a smile flitting across his face "Hello Sansa"

Sansa wasted no time reaching him, drawing his face to hers for a kiss.

"I'm sorry it took me so long" she said "I needed to make sure everything was set before I could relax"

"And?"

"It's done" she said, allowing a small smile "Maseter Wolkan is writing up the statement of what happened for lord Glover and lord Manderly to sign tomorrow. It will take a couple of days to sort out the details and spread word of the ruling but Gawan will die - I promise"

"Good" he said, breathing out a little

Sansa raked her eyes over Tyrion. He was still dressed in his blood-covered tunic and if she had to guess she'd say he hadn't moved since he got back here. A little colour had returned to his face, though his eyes were distant. Guilt stirred in Sansa. When the beginnings of the plan had taken root this morning she'd quickly sought the help of Tyrion and Arya to make it a reality. Tyrion had readily agreed to go and speak with Gawan - despite what the cruel boy had done to him. Sansa hated asking so much of him, but she knew no-one else would get Gawan to drop his guard.

"Lyon's not very happy with me" said Tyrion "I think he hoped to get a couple of fingers"

The wolf huffed, nudging his nose against him.

"He was in quite the panic when we got around to the cell door" agreed Sansa

Their plan had rested on Tyrion provoking the truth from Gawan and they'd given him the key in case he had need of it. Sansa hadn't expected Tyrion to actually use it, let alone go into the cell.

"Are you ok?" she asked, brushing her hand through his hair

"I'm fine" he said quickly

Sansa could see his left hand but not his right that was hidden by Lyon.

"What about your hand?"

He grimaced at the question, reluctantly lifting the limb so she could see it. Sansa drew in a sharp breath at the sight. The hand was bruised and swollen, with the knuckles split open and covered in dried blood. She carefully turned the hand, inspecting the damage.

"That must hurt" she said

"It's quite alright" he said

Tyrion was withdrawing from her; she could see it in the short answers and distant eyes. Confronting Gawan had clearly brought back unpleasant memories and he was retreating to a place no-one could hurt him.

'Go away inside'

The advice she'd seen Jamie give his little brother in childhood whispered through her mind, shining a light on her husband's coping mechanism that wasn't so different to her own. It was a useful skill in certain situations, but Sansa had learned the hard way it was no way to live and she wouldn't let Tyrion hide away from her.

"Come love; let me help you" she said, offering her hand

She helped Tyrion out of his tunic, handing him the direwolf pin to hold as she eased the sleeve over his sore hand. There wasn't as much blood on him as she'd feared and it seemed to mostly be Gawan's. Sansa put the tunic aside for washing, returning to find Tyrion holding the pin out to her.

"Here you are" he said

Sansa shook her head, gently closing his fingers around the pin "It's for you"

Tyrion's face brightened as he rubbed his thumb over the pin. A servant knocked on the door soon after, delivering a bowl filled with ice, a cloth and bandages.

"Arya said she'll see you in the morning and to ice your hand" said Sansa as she guided Tyrion onto the chaise.

It was too early to get ready for bed and with no point getting dressed properly Tyrion sat in just his shift and breeches. Lyon had curled up in front of the hearth as Sansa tended to her husband. The dried blood easily came off his hand, revealing the split knuckles beneath. His hand was already black and blue when she placed it in the ice.

"You said no more ice baths" he grumbled, wincing at the cold

"Just a little longer, my love" she said

When Sansa had dried his hand and wrapped the bandages around it, she finally sank onto the chaise next to him.

"Thank you" he said, examining the limb

"No problem"

Tyrion offered her a smile "I'd be hopeless without you"

"Good thing you won't be without me then"

"I never intended to punch Gawan" he said, staring at the hearth "or go in the cell…but when he grabbed hold of me…"

Sansa nodded her understanding, her eyes flitting to his breeches "Is everything ok there?"

"Oh, yes" he said, his cheeks reddening "Quite alright"

The Queen wound her arm around her husband, drawing him into her side.

"What you did today was incredibly brave" she said "I know how difficult it must have been - I'm sorry I couldn't think of another way"

"Don't apologise" he said, leaning into her "Your plan was quite brilliant"

"It's over now. Lord Glover and lord Manderly have seen a truth they can't deny"

"At least Gawan's death won't start a war"

Sansa nodded, enjoying the feel of her husband against her. There was nothing more to be done about Gawan until tomorrow and Sansa had no intention of returning to her work today. More than anything she wanted to lift some of the melancholy from around her husband.

She turned to Tyrion, lightening her tone as she ran her fingers over his chest "Time for more important matters; you're banned from work for the rest of the day"

"Oh?"

"Your poor hand needs a break - Queen's orders"

"I suppose"

"As your wife I'll be taking the day off as well"

"Makes sense" he nodded

Sansa leaned in kissing his cheek, as her hand wandered around his shift "What can I do to bring a smile to your face?"

Tyrion looked up at her, the familiar warmth of his green eyes clouded by a vulnerability he usually hid from her "Hold me?"