Chapter 37

"Surprised Sansa let you out of bed today big brother" said Arya, glancing along at Tyrion.

"Why's that?"

"She seems to think you're some precious thing" said Arya, eyeing his bandaged hand "thought she'd be smothering you with attention since you hurt your hand"

Tyrion snorted "It's only bruised, and your sister gave me plenty of attention last night"

"I don't need to know what goes on between you two"

"Not like that, though I do believe she wanted to" said Tyrion, a small smile crossing his face "We sat together for hours - just talking and telling stories. We read for a while too…"

Arya resisted the urge to roll her eyes as Tyrion went on describing the closeness he and Sansa had shared last night. It obviously meant a lot to Tyrion, but to Arya it sounded boring as hell. She could just imagine the two of them sat in front of the hearth, staring into each other's eyes for hours on end.

As much as Arya had wanted to check on Tyrion yesterday she'd suspected it was Sansa he needed and she'd let them be until this morning. Sansa had gone to a meeting with lord Glover and lord Manderly and Arya had dragged Tyrion down to the practice yard. His hand was just as bruised and swollen as she'd predicted, but her sister had heeded her advice and iced it last night - even so it would be a few days until he could use it properly.

"You should still wear your sword" said Arya, setting up the target across the practice yard

Tyrion lifted his bandaged hand "Not much point at the moment"

"It's still attached, and if it was life or death would you hesitate to grab your sword?"

"I have Lyon"

Arya glanced across to the golden wolf; currently lying on his back in the morning sun with his paws in the air.

"Terrifying" said Arya, raising an eyebrow

"You should smell his morning breath"

Arya scrunched her nose "Sansa doesn't mind Lyon sleeping in bed with you?"

"In fairness Lyon gives her little choice in the matter. His visits to the bed are somewhat random – sometimes I just wake up and he's there" said Tyrion "I suspect he does it to annoy Sansa. They never really bonded"

"I do many things just to annoy Sansa" agreed Arya.

It was no mystery to her or Sansa why Lyon would sometimes join Tyrion in bed or seek him out around the castle. The wolf knew when something was bothering his master and Lyon's behaviour had become an indicator for her and Sansa. When Arya went to see them this morning the direwolf had been following Tyrion like a shadow, and it had solidified her plan to spend some time with her brother. Dealing with lord Glover and lord Manderly the last two days had quickly eaten through Arya's patience; unwinding in the practice yard while Sansa dealt with them was the best way to prevent a murder.

Arya set up the last target, stepping back to inspect the post with several straw targets of different sizes attached to it; a smaller one for the head, a larger one for the torso and a couple of narrow ones for legs. She moved back to where Tyrion was waiting. He hadn't worn his sword but he'd brought along the dagger Bronn gave him, which he'd taken to wearing too – much to Arya's approval.

"Aren't you glad for all those left handed knife throwing lessons now?" asked Arya

Tyrion rolled his eyes "I suppose you had a point"

"Sword practice may be taking a break but knife skills aren't" said Arya "Unless you want to practice with your sword in your left hand?"

"No, thank you. Jamie was an excellent swordsman until he had to use his left – Gods only know what I'd be like"

Much to Arya's satisfaction Tyrion's knife throwing had improved rather a lot from when they started. Initially it had been an exercise to build strength in his weaker hand but over the few weeks of practice Tyrion had picked up the basic technique and was fairly accurate, if a little slow.

"You're thinking too much" she said, watching him line up the target

"If I miss, what's the point?"

"If you take too long they'll hit you first"

He let the dagger fly, the blade just clipping the edge of the head target as it soared past.

"Do you think it's a bit big to throw?" he asked

"You can throw any blade, and you're more likely to have that dagger with you than the smaller knives we practice with" said Arya, withdrawing the Valyrian steel dagger Bran had given her and launching it at the target. It spun through the air, landing dead centre of the head target.

"Show off" said Tyrion, moving to collect their weapons

They carried on for several rounds. Arya challenged herself to throw with her eyes closed, while Tyrion had varying levels of success hitting the targets.

"Must have felt good to hit Gawan" she said

"I thought it would, but it didn't really" admitted Tyrion "No matter how hard I hit him he carried on laughing. The stupid grin on his face...I was powerless"

"You weren't powerless, and based on the mess you made of your hand Gawan's face won't be looking so pretty today"

"I don't want to see it" said Tyrion, dropping his gaze to the dagger in his hands "it's stupid, but I don't want to see Gawan again"

"That's not stupid"

No-one was going to blame Tyrion for that. Arya hadn't needed any excuses to hate Gawan Glover, but watching him taunt Tyrion yesterday had been excruciating. When the bastard had grabbed Tyrion it had been difficult to not intervene. Sansa had barely controlled herself either.

"Sansa said it'll be a couple of days before he dies" said Tyrion

"Do you want to be the one who does it?"

Tyrion bit his lip, as if he didn't want to say what he was thinking.

"I should" he said eventually "I'm the lord of Winterfell, I should do it myself"

"Do you want to though?"

"That hardly matters; it's expected of me"

"Tyrion..."

"I don't want to" he said, turning to look at her "it shouldn't bother me, but I never want to see Gawan's face again – even if it is to see him die"

"Then don't" she said simply "I'd rather like to poke some holes in him"

"You and Sansa shouldn't need to cover for my weakness" he said, running a hand through his curly hair "I should be protecting you both"

"Because you're a man?" asked Arya, lifting an eyebrow as she twirled a knife through her fingers

"Well, no..."

"Because it's your sworn duty as lord of Winterfell?"

Arya let the knife fly, followed swiftly by a second and third until three blades quivered in the centre of the head target.

Tyrion gave a half smile at the display of skill "Because you're my family, and I want to protect you and Sansa the way you so readily defend me"

Something warm stirred in Arya's chest at his words "That's the idea of the pack big brother – there are no lone wolves and protecting the pack is a shared responsibility"

"I fear I'm still rather new to the idea"

Arya turned to Tyrion "Forget about Gawan Glover. You won't see him ever again"

"What about Sansa? I don't want to disappoint her"

"Sansa won't mind at all. If anything she'll be glad you told her how you feel"

Tyrion shifted on the spot "Can't you tell her?"

Arya smirked, turning away from Tyrion's pleading face. It was always amusing to see him beg, but this was something she wouldn't do for him. There was no reason for Tyrion to be nervous about telling his wife and that was something he had to learn on his own. Besides, if Arya had to guess she was fairly sure Sansa would smother him in reassurances when they spoke.

"Sorry big brother, but Sansa's your problem. I'll handle Gawan Glover though – don't spare him another thought"


Satisfaction curled through Sansa as she read through the statement condemning Gawan Glover – her eyes lingering on lord Glover's name and sigil at the bottom. The signatures included Arya, Tyrion, lord Manderly and herself, but it was lord Glover's she'd truly needed. This document meant so many things; justice for Tyrion, some stability in the North and most importantly the end of Gawan.

"Thank you, my lords" said Sansa, passing the documents across to Maester Wolkan "Word of the ruling will be sent to all Northern houses and reinforce the importance of finding Robin Flint and Grey Worm"

"How did Grey Worm escape exactly?" asked lord Manderly

Irritation at Bran's betrayal flickered through her "Unfortunately the details aren't clear, but Winterfell was so busy for King Bran's visit we believe Grey Worm somehow worked his chains free and escaped in the busyness of the event"

"A traitor perhaps?"

"Difficult to say my lord, but I think not. The Winterfell guards have been spread thin with the hunt for Gawan and Robin as well as the royal visit – some houses have helped greatly during this time, but it's not been enough. Somewhere a mistake was made and Grey Worm made his escape"

Lord Manderly flushed at the pointed comment "Certainly understandable, your Grace. When I return to White Harbour I can send some of my men to assist you in any way needed"

"Thank you my lord, but I'd hate to take your men away when you're experiencing shipping problems" said Sansa, smiling sweetly at him "Do you require any assistance with that situation?"

"I-I thank you, but that's hardly necessary. I'm sure it'll be easily resolved when I return..."

Lord Manderly went wittering on about trade and shipping – all to disguise the very obvious truth he'd been the one causing the delay. He was a clever enough man, and usually ran White Harbour well but Sansa trusted him no further than she could throw him and given his immense size that wasn't very far. He'd been fully supportive of the Glovers until the truth was revealed, at which point he'd slithered away from lord Glover as if he had grey scale.

The revelation of Gawan's true nature had shattered the power lord Glover and lord Manderly had been so eager to wield only the day before. While lord Manderly had quickly changed from an obstacle to an ally, lord Glover was empty. The passion with which he'd defended his son had been extinguished, leaving behind a man who looked as though his soul had been sucked from his body. When he arrived at the meeting he'd enquired only about lord Tyrion's whereabouts before adding his signature to the statement without bothering to read it.

"Do you have anything to add lord Glover?" asked Sansa, when lord Manderly finally finished

He jerked at her voice, as if pulled from his thoughts "No, your Grace"

"Very well. The details of Gawan's execution are yet to be decided" she said "the focus will remain on capturing Robin Flint and Grey Worm"

Just because lord Glover and lord Manderly had accepted the truth didn't mean she trusted them. They hadn't answered her calls for aid in the search for Tyrion, or in the hunt for Robin and Gawan. She had no idea whether they'd received letters from Robin Flint suggesting a rebellion or not, but Sansa had no intention of bringing it up to them. Who was to say if there was a rebellion they wouldn't switch sides? She didn't need to involve them. She had houses Cerwyn, Tallhart, Hornwood and Mazin on side. House Dormund was too closely linked to house Glover to trust and she didn't know house Locke or house Dustin well enough to decide either way. Tyrion had made subtle enquiries to both houses and lady Dustin claimed to have received a letter about a rebellion and discarded it while house Locke was somewhat unknown.

Sansa's stomach twisted uncomfortably. Bronn had told her men were going North, presumably to join Robin. If it came to a fight she needed more houses on side, but she couldn't bring herself to trust these lords. Sansa had been betrayed since the day she left Winterfell. It had taught her how to play the game; it had made her cautious of whom she trusted.

She glanced between lord Glover's distant face and lord Manderly's false smile before she spoke "I believe we should move onto other matters. Maester Wolkan, could you show the details of the trade agreement made with the six Kingdoms to lord Manderly please? Much was discussed during the royal visit and it will take a while to go through it all"


"Please m'lord my family are starving" said the young man "I don't know what else to do"

Tyrion shifted uncomfortably in his chair, appraising the man before him. The story was all too common and likely repeated across the North. The long night had destroyed farms and livelihoods indiscriminately, plunging most of the small folk into an even deeper poverty than they were used to. To make matters worse years of war had killed many of the working men in the villages, leaving behind children and wives with limited options for survival.

"Do you have a trade?" asked Tyrion. The man looked no more than twenty and two, but had a young wife and two children depending on him.

Shame crept through the man's dark eyes "No, m'lord. Me father went south when I was a lad and didn't come back. He worked for a stone mason, but he's dead too"

This was a recurring theme of Tyrion's court sessions and he knew from the letters he exchanged with Cley Cerwyn it wasn't limited to Winterfell. Most trades were either taught from father to son or learned through working as an apprentice in late childhood. Tyrion had already persuaded many merchants in the village to take on more apprentices and promised them support from the crown in exchange, but it simply wasn't a long term solution.

"I fear there is little I can do to aid you" said Tyrion, watching the man's face fall "the issues you've described are replicated across the North and I will continue to search for a long term solution, but for now the best I can offer is food for your family"

"Thank you m'lord" he said, bowing his head

Tyrion didn't like not being able to do more, but work was scarce across the North. Already he'd persuaded Sansa to train some village men as Winterfell guards but even there they were at the limit of how many guards they could take. In his youth Tyrion had witnessed his father take strong young men and train them as guards regardless of birth, but the solution wasn't as simple in the North. The Lannisters had been the wealthiest family in Westeros – the cost of equipment, training and wages were hardly a concern. While Winterfell was the most powerful of the Northern houses, its wealth was a pittance compared to other houses in Westeros – there wasn't endless money to pay guards or to give in aid.

Nessa directed the man to one side of the hall with the others who would be given food and spare blankets in aid, while Tyrion turned the problem over in his mind. There was one idea he'd played with for a while now but would the Northerners accept it, or would it just be further evidence he wasn't one of them? The North was proud of its tradition – was it too proud to change? It was tempting to discuss it with Sansa but the Queen had more than enough to deal with at the moment. Perhaps it was best to do the necessary research alone and discuss it with Sansa when he had a more thoroughly thought out proposal.

"Is that everyone Nessa?" he asked, glancing at his squire

The girl nodded, turning to the packed hall "If anyone else wants to bring their petition before the lord of Winterfell speak now or hold your peace!"

Tyrion smiled as her childish voice echoed around the room. He'd just begun to move from the chair he'd spent hours in when Lyon's growl stopped him short. The crowd parted to reveal Lord Glover striding forwards from the back of the hall.

"I have something to say" he declared, instantly catching the attention of the small folk who were readying to leave the hall

Tyrion forced his voice to be steady "My lord, I am happy to speak with you. Shall we retire somewhere more private?"

The old lord's face was grim as he stood before the platform where Tyrion's seat was situated "No, what I have to say should be heard by all"

A bead of sweat trickled down the side of Tyrion's face. He could feel the eyes of the petitioners flicking between him and lord Glover and he was well aware Nessa and the guards were awaiting his decision, but Tyrion hadn't been prepared for this. Why was lord Glover here?

'He's here to tear you down' whispered his mind 'he's going to tell them all you're a liar and a traitor'

A deep pit of fear stirred to life in Tyrion at lord Glover's arrival; giving strength to the doubts that fought to control him.

"Of course" said Tyrion, curling his hands around the arms of his chair. Lyon had stopped growling but sat attentively at his side as the rest of the room fell silent.

Lord Glover's eyes were full of grief as he stared at Tyrion, before dropping to one knee "Lord Tyrion, I come to beg your forgiveness. I accused you of lying and I questioned your honour when it was my own son who was at fault"

Tyrion opened his mouth, but words refused to come as the old man continued – his voice drifting to every corner of the room.

"I denied all of the charges levelled at Gawan, up until I could deny them no more. He is guilty of treason, torture, kidnapping and slavery; that is beyond doubt now. He's dishonoured himself and in doing so dishonoured my house. There is nothing I can say to erase the heinous crimes committed against you, but that creature will die. As his father I must take my share of the blame. I took no part in his crimes, but he is-was my son"

The silence was deafening as the weight of lord Glover's words sank in. Surely there was no other part of Westeros where a prominent lord would so publicly acknowledge the sins of his house? This wasn't Kings Landing though, or Casterly Rock. Lord Glover would have fought to his last for Gawan, because he believed whole-heartedly his son was innocent. Now his belief had been proven wrong he wouldn't shy away from admitting his mistakes – or offering Tyrion justice. That was ultimately what lord Glover was offering. He'd publically acknowledged Gawan's guilt and condemned him, but the Northern sense of honour was compelling lord Glover to offer Tyrion justice for doubting him.

"My lord, there is nothing to forgive. You defended your son as most fathers would. I've always believed the child is not responsible for its parent's crimes, and the same is true in reverse. Gawan is a man grown, and was careful to hide his true nature – I hold no grudge against you for Gawan's crimes"

Lord Glover lifted his head "I questioned your honour"

"Only because you believed in your son's. The Queen will sentence Gawan, and I bear you no ill-will"

The old lord held Tyrion's gaze for a moment before nodding, moving stiffly to his feet "Thank you my lord"

Tyrion scrambled from his chair as lord Glover held out his hand. The eyes of the room followed them as Tyrion clasped his hand to shake. Somehow the tension that had entered the room broke as they pulled away. The guards began directing the small folk out of the hall as a light chatter filled the air. Tyrion didn't need to wonder what they were talking about. Word of what had happened here today would spread like wildfire, and it would add significant weight to the charges levelled at Robin Flint too.

"If you'll excuse me lord Tyrion" said lord Glover, turning towards the side door "I should send a raven to my family"

Nessa hurried to his side as he watched lord Glover leave, her hand tugging at his arm "You ok Tyrion?"

"Lord Glover apologised" he said, staring at the man's retreating form "I can't quite believe it"

"Is Gawan the one that hurt you?"

"One of them"

Nessa knew the basics of what was going on, but few of the details. With her working in Winterfell it was impossible for her not to know.

"That's why he apologised" she told him "Father used to say if me and Ethan did bad things he was guilty cause he didn't teach us better"

Tyrion nodded, struggling to process what had just happened. After so many months in the North Tyrion had thought he understood the people and the way they worked – yet somehow they never ceased to surprise him.


"Did you put him up to it?" asked Tyrion

"No, of course not" said Sansa, shaking her head "tell me again what happened"

Sansa listened intently as Tyrion went through what had happened with lord Glover once more. The Queen had been going through some correspondence when Tyrion returned with his tale, and it was one Sansa could hardly believe.

"He said all that publicly?" she asked

Tyrion nodded "The petitioners hadn't left the hall yet – Nessa and the guards heard everything too"

"Lord Glover asked where you were at the start of the meeting; I told him you were holding court but I never imagined he'd do that"

"Neither did I" said Tyrion "I thought he'd come to start an argument, but it appears I misjudged him"

"Gawan's actions have shamed him. The Glovers are an old Northern house – to question another man's honour so publicly and then be proved wrong is another stain of dishonour on his house"

"I doubt there are many who would seek to make amends as he did"

"Not anymore. It's another part of Northern tradition that's fading away"

Sansa leaned back in her chair, going over what Tyrion had told her. Lord Glover had made things much easier for them going forwards. His public acknowledgment of Gawan's guilt would add a lot of weight to the charges against Robin too; hopefully enough to discourage people from joining Robin's rebellion attempt.

She glanced across at Tyrion, sat at the desk beside her. He'd been rather subdued last night, despite their victory over Gawan. She'd done her best to lighten his mood, but Tyrion had remained quite closed off and had gently turned down her offer of a thorough inspection of his private area. That was perfectly fine with Sansa – she was just happy Tyrion had let her comfort him at all. Facing Gawan had dredged up a lot of unresolved feelings for him and she'd been perfectly content to hold him while he worked through it all.

Fortunately he'd been more like himself this morning, if a little distant.

"Lord Glover and lord Manderly both signed the statement this morning" she said, drawing his attention "Maester Wolkan is going to send word of the judgement across the North and given lord Glover has accepted the situation, I see no reason to delay Gawan's death much longer. It can be as soon as tomorrow if you like"

Tyrion dropped his gaze to the table, fiddling with the bandages around his hand "Oh – that's good"

"Is everything alright?"

Sansa sat patiently, giving Tyrion whatever time he needed to get his thoughts in order. Nervousness shone from his green eyes when he finally looked at her.

"Sansa, would it be possible for me not to be there when Gawan dies?"

"You don't want to watch?" she asked "No-one expects you to swing the sword if that's what's bothering you – Arya will be more than happy to do it"

"It's not that" he said "I know how hard you've worked to get justice for me. I just..."

He trailed off, turning his head away from her. Sansa had thought Tyrion would be excited to see Gawan die and wondered if he wanted to do it himself or not. That apparently wasn't the case. The Queen closed her hand around his, gently tugging it away from the bandages and rubbing her thumb in circles across the back of it.

"I don't want to see Gawan again" he admitted

"Then you won't see him again"

"It shouldn't bother me"

"But it does" she said, squeezing his hand "Sweetheart, is that what's been bothering you?"

"What do you mean?" he asked

"Having Gawan in Winterfell is bothering you, isn't it? You've seemed on edge since Bronn brought him here, and I know you're not sleeping well"

Tyrion's eyes were full of guilt as he looked at her "I'm sorry. I never meant to disturb your sleep-"

"You haven't. I'd hold you all night if you'd let me and consider myself the luckiest woman alive" she said "You don't ever need to apologise for wanting my comfort; it's yours Tyrion - always"

Sansa felt his fingers tighten around her own as his gaze turned downwards "I've been having nightmares"

"About the Wolfswood?"

He shook his head "No, I keep seeing Gawan in Winterfell; in our chambers. The dreams change sometimes, but some things don't. You die, and I can't wake you up...and I'm alone...sometimes Arya's dead too...but he's always there...grinning at me"

Sansa's heart ached as Tyrion described the horrible images that haunted his sleep. Sansa was no stranger to nightmares – how many nights had she woken up believing Ramsay Bolton was in the room? Even a couple of years on from his death his ghost lingered on the edge of her consciousness. Tyrion had done so well recovering from the Wolfswood it was easy to forget it had only been a couple of months ago he'd laid broken and battered on the table in Maester Wolkan's room. Guilt gnawed at Sansa as she looked at her husband's worried face. He hadn't shied away from facing lord Glover and confronting Gawan – he took everything in his stride without a word of complaint, despite how difficult it was for him.

"My love, is that why I keep finding you on top of me in the mornings?" she asked gently

Redness crept into Tyrion's face "The dreams seemed so real...I wanted to protect you"

The words caught in Sansa's throat at the sincerity in Tyrion's voice "I'm well protected then"

"I'm sorry Sansa – I shouldn't be bothering you with this, or clinging to you in bed like a child" he said, straightening in his seat "Gawan will die, that's the important thing"

Tyrion was putting his lordly mask on, hiding away whatever anxiety he had about having Gawan in Winterfell. It wouldn't work. Sansa had suspected Tyrion was struggling since Gawan arrived, but he hid it well enough that it was easy to overlook. There was nothing Sansa wanted to do more than pull him into her arms and soothe the vulnerability bubbling below the surface, but there was still one issue to resolve.

"Tyrion, please be honest with me; do you want to be the one to kill Gawan?" she asked "You're the one he hurt, you're welcome to take your justice"

He hesitated for a moment, his neutral mask wavering "I don't. I never want to see him again"

"To be clear, you don't want to watch him die?"

"No"

"Is there a particular way you want him to die?"

Tyrion shook his head, muttering softly "As long as he's dead"

Sansa pulled his hand towards her, pressing her lips to the back of it "That's decided then – you'll never see Gawan again"

"Won't it look odd that I'm not at the execution? I don't want to embarrass you Sansa"

"You could never embarrass me, and if you're ok with it I was thinking a public execution might not be the best idea"

At that Tyrion lifted his eyes to hers "What do you mean?"

"Gawan is the only one who might have information on Robin. I was thinking Arya could extract some answers and Gawan would die in the dungeons. Seeing as lord Glover's publicly apologised to you it might be better to do it privately, and allow him to save some face"

"A clever plan" he nodded "A show of mercy to house Glover from the Queen in the North"

"What do you think?" she asked "If you'd rather it be public I'd more than understand"

"No, I think you're right. Lord Glover has owned up to his mistakes and publicly disowned Gawan – there's no need to add to his pain" he said "Arya would get answers from Gawan?"

"I'd be with her"

"Sansa..."

"We won't be in danger" she promised "There will be guards with us and Gawan will be restrained. Do you really think he could beat Arya?"

Tyrion bit his lip "I don't want either of you to get hurt, least of all on my behalf. I should be strong enough to do it myself – but I'm not"

Sansa couldn't hold out any longer. She slipped from her chair, to crouch next to Tyrion's – drawing him into her embrace.

"You're the strongest man I know" she told him "but you're not in this alone. Robin and Gawan threaten the whole North and as Queen it's my duty to be there when the sword is swung. You've done more than enough my love, let me handle this"

"You're sure?" he breathed, leaning his head against her shoulder

"I am" she said "When midnight falls tomorrow he'll be gone, I promise"


Bran gazed out the window of his chambers, seeing the swamps of the neck spreading out from the castle. They were still in the North, but already Bran could feel his connection to the old Gods slipping. It had been stronger at Winterfell; and stronger still beyond the wall.

"Is it true?" asked Meera "Did you take control of a guard like you used to with Hodor?"

"Where did you hear that?"

"Ser Bronn talks too much" she said "he asked me to tell him about all the weird stuff you must have done beyond the wall"

"It seems a lifetime ago when we went beyond the wall"

"You're avoiding the question"

Bran pulled his gaze from the window to his new sworn shield. Meera stood by the door, her spear in hand.

"It's true" he said "Grey Worm could not remain in Winterfell"

She grimaced "I never liked your power. Warging into animals is one thing, but humans? It's a violation"

"It is" he agreed "when it first happened with Hodor I didn't really know what I was doing, but I could feel him struggling. I had to warg into the guard – it was the only solution, and the old Gods knew it"

Meera nodded, saying nothing more on the matter. Bran hadn't liked what he'd had to do, but it needed to be done. Sansa's goodbye to him had been as cold as ice, while Arya hadn't spoken to him since the incident with Darron. She might not have spoken to him but she had been there. It was as his party left Winterfell that Bran had taken a final look at his childhood home and saw his sister hidden away at the top of the battlements. Arya had looked as if she was carved from stone as she stood in place.

Bran had known freeing Grey Worm would hurt his family – especially Arya. He'd tried to distance himself from her; hoping when the betrayal came she would be better prepared for it, but ultimately he'd made things worse. Sansa and Arya were furious and he didn't need to be the three-eyed raven to know they wouldn't trust him again.

"You don't like or trust the powers of the three-eyed raven" said Bran, folding his hands in his lap "Why did you agree to be my sworn shield?"

"I wouldn't have if I thought that was all you were"

"I am the three-eyed raven" he warned "and that is something that can't be changed"

"You're Bran Stark too" she said "he's the one who asked me to join him"


Tyrion watched Darron turn the sword in his hand; a smile lighting up the boy's face.

"What do you think?" asked Tyrion

"It's beautiful" said Darron

"Good. The Queen hopes this will in some way repay you for the false accusations you endured"

Darron's mouth turned downwards "I did it though. I freed the prisoner"

Tyrion bit back a sigh as Brice and Cayn smirked at him – despite several attempts to explain how Bran had used Darron and that he was blameless of any crime, the boy still didn't understand. Tyrion had found it was easier to move on, rather than force the issue.

It had taken a few days of thought but Sansa had finally settled on suitable compensation for Darron. Much like lord Glover had questioned Tyrion's honour, Darron's honour had been called into question when he was found guilty of Bran's crime and Sansa was determined to make amends. From what Sansa had told him, Darron's only request when asked what he wanted was to resume his position as a guard of Winterfell. To that end Tyrion had suggested a better quality sword may be a suitable gift. The new blade in Darron's hands was castle forged steel, with the Direwolf symbol engraved at the base of the blade. Most of the weapons used by the guards had changed hands many times and seen many battles – being gifted a new sword by the Queen was considered an honour.

"Sansa was very impressed with how you handled yourself, and your loyalty to her" said Tyrion "She hopes you'll use this sword well"

"I will m'lord" said Darron, hastily bowing his head "Thank you!"

The young man fumbled in his haste to attach the sword to his belt, before bowing his head to Tyrion once more. As Darron hurried off to show another couple of guards his new weapon, Tyrion clambered onto the crate where Brice and Cayn were sat at the edge of the practice yard.

"Where are our swords Lannister?" asked Brice, nudging his shoulder "Aint we loyal to the Queen?"

"If Sansa rewarded you two with anything it would be a bath"

Brice barked out a laugh "Aye, reckon it's been enough weeks"

"Weeks?"

"We aint fancy like you Tyrion" said Cayn "Once a month if we're lucky"

"Even then it's a cold one" said Brice "cold enough to turn ya balls blue"

Cayn nodded "Better you've not had to do it Tyrion - you're not as used to the cold as us"

"Lad's right Lannister; your balls would turn to ice"

Tyrion's mouth fell open at the poor conditions they were describing "Do all Northerners live like that?"

It was Cayn's snort of disbelief that gave the game away, followed quickly by Brice's booming laugh.

"Bloody hell" laughed Brice, clasping Tyrion's shoulder "you wouldn't want to sit next to me if I hadn't had a bath in a month"

A grin spread over Cayn's face "Can't believe you fell for that"

Redness crept up Tyrion's neck "Your odour made a rather compelling case. I take it you do have hot water then?"

"Not as much as the castle I expect, but we don't get home after a hard day's work and sit in a tub of ice either" said Brice, wiping at his face "You believed all of that, didn't you?"

"I know Northerners are a rather hardy bunch; unconcerned by personal grooming" said Tyrion

"That's right Lannister. It's a Northern rite of passage – you aint a man of the North till you've froze your balls off in a cold bath" declared Brice

Cayn was still laughing "Do you want us to arrange one for you?"

"That's an idea" agreed Brice "You're already one of us, but this'll seal the deal"

Tyrion found himself grinning along with them. It didn't bother him at all that Brice and Cayn were mocking him – they were his friends, and he knew it was harmless banter. Their playful teasing couldn't be more different to the cutting remarks he received from the lords of Sansa's court who liked to remind him he wasn't born a Northerner.

"I'll have you know I've already bathed in the coldest water there is" said Tyrion

"That stream me and Lyle cleaned you up in on the way North doesn't count" said Cayn

"I don't mean that" said Tyrion "I've had an ice bath!"

Brice snorted "Did the servants let their lord's bath get a little cold for him?"

Tyrion pouted in mock outrage "I did have a bath in ice; Sansa said she was covering me in snow-"

He clamped his mouth shut, just as Brice and Cayn's eyes lit up in delight. Tyrion groaned as they loomed over him.

"What was that Tyrion?" asked Cayn

"Out with it" said Brice "tell us all about how the Queen gave you a bath"

"Spare no details" added Cayn

"You're both perverts" said Tyrion

"Not at all" grinned Brice "We just need to establish if this ice bath of yours qualifies you as a Northerner"

"Details are important" agreed Cayn

"Sorry to disappoint you but there are no details" said Tyrion "I wasn't awake for the experience"

It took a moment for Tyrion to realise he'd just made things infinitely worse for himself.

"Gods be good, what the hell do you and the Queen do up there?" asked Brice

As amusing as Brice was finding it, Cayn was just as curious "What happened? Did you just go to bed and she put you in the ice bath? Were you wearing clothes?"

Tyrion held his head with as much dignity as he could "I'll have you know Sansa did it while I was unwell, and I don't recall any of it – but I do believe I was undressed for the occasion"

Brice's face was red from laughing "Aye, alright. Reckon that qualifies you as a Northerner"

"He doesn't remember it though" added Cayn "I still think he should do it again, just so we can all see"

"Never realised you wanted to see me naked Cayn" said Tyrion, turning the tables on the young man

Instantly Cayn's face flushed red, as Brice erupted into laughter "You walked into that one lad"

Before Tyrion could further his revenge on Cayn, another guard came running across into the practice yard.

"Lord Tyrion, they're back!" he called, drawing in ragged breaths "They're in the courtyard"

It took several seconds for the details to click into place, but when they did Tyrion pushed off the crate and to his feet – Cayn and Brice joining him. They hurried across the practice yard, following the other guard into the courtyard where a crowd was quickly forming around the entrance.

"Clear a path" ordered Brice

The crowd glanced around, immediately moving to the side when they spotted the lord of Winterfell. Tyrion's heart stopped when he made it to the front of the crowd. Alec stood at the front of the men; his face a mess of cuts and dirt. Torn up strips of cloak were wound around his shoulder, but blood had soaked through to the front. The Winterfell guards behind him looked just as worse for wear, and to Tyrion's increasing horror there was nowhere near as many of them as had left.

"Where's Lyle?" asked Cayn, his voice wavering as he searched the men for his brother

"I'm here" came the weak reply

Relief flooded Tyrion as he finally caught sight of Lyle. He was towards the back of men; leaning heavily on one of the others. Tyrion couldn't quite see past the rest of the guards, but he just caught sight of Lyle's face and that was enough to reassure him his friend was alive.

"What happened?" asked Tyrion, stepping forward to greet Alec

The captain of the guard shook his head "Not here. The Queen needs to know first"

Tyrion nodded, taking in the state of the men behind Alec. He turned to the gathered crowd "What are you all waiting for? These men are injured – send for the Maester. Find food, clean water and blankets"

The crowd lurched to life at Tyrion's order, scrambling around the courtyard. Tyrion caught the eye of a young woman from the kitchens, beckoning her over.

"Will you run a message for me?" he asked "There isn't time to summon my squire"

"Certainly m'lord" she said, nervously bobbing her head

"Find the Queen and tell her Alec and the guards have returned. Tell her it's urgent" he said

"Aye, m'lord"

The servant made a clumsy attempt at a curtsy before hurrying off. The courtyard was alive with activity as the Winterfell household moved to aid the wounded guards. Cayn had darted quickly off to his brother, while Brice had paused to see Alec before following Cayn.

Tyrion stepped closer to his friend "Are you alright?"

"I'll live, which is more than I can say for some of our men" he said grimly "This is a bad business Tyrion – the Queen won't be at all happy"


Sansa hurried through the halls of Winterfell with Arya at her side. They'd been sat in her chambers since lunch, planning the execution of Gawan Glover that would take place tomorrow – or they were until a servant knocked on the door, delivering a message from Tyrion that Alec and the guards had returned.

Immediately they'd set off for the courtyard, with Sansa going through every possible situation. Alec and the guards had been due back days ago and there had been no communication from them since they'd been gone. Something hadn't gone to plan – if it had Alec would have come straight to her and Tyrion wouldn't have sent the message he had.

"Lord Glover and lord Manderly will wonder what's going on" said Sansa, worry curling through her "I haven't told them about Robin's attempt to start a rebellion"

Arya shot her a look "Who cares what they know or don't"

"I don't trust them" she hissed "the last thing I want is them asking questions"

"I thought your priority would be the Winterfell guards" said Arya, narrowing her eyes "You know, the men who followed their Queen's orders and clearly ran into some trouble?"

The sharp remark stopped Sansa short "You're right...I just..."

They slowed down as the main doors to Winterfell came into view.

"You think too much" said Arya, striding towards the doors "Tell the lords where to go if you don't want to give them answers"

Sansa watched her sister push through the doors and disappear into the courtyard – already the sounds of commotion were drifting into her. Arya made it sound so simple; it was the same kind of thinking that had caused Jon and their father such problems.

'When you play the game of thrones, you win or you die' whispered Cersei

The Queen drew in a breath, steadying her nerves. There was no point speculating on what had happened when the answers would be in the courtyard. The cold Northern air sliced into her skin as she stepped from the warmth of the castle and into the chaos of the courtyard. At first glance it was hard to see what was going on because of the commotion. Servants and guards hurried around the area as Sansa's eyes fell on the group of men stood just inside the entrance. They were covered in dirt and blood, with several leaning on another for support.

Sansa's heart sped up, watching the scene unfold as if through another's eyes. This was her fault. The men were clearly injured and Sansa knew without counting there wasn't as many as had gone out. She was the Queen; this mess was her responsibility – she needed to take charge. Sansa took a few steps forward when her eyes fell on lord Glover and lord Manderly watching the commotion from the ramparts. A couple of their own guards stood beside them, more than likely relaying what they'd seen.

Rather than move further out, Sansa froze in the shadows of the castle. What was she supposed to do? This wasn't how things were supposed to happen. It was then Sansa realised someone had already taken charge of the situation. Tyrion stood in the midst of the chaos, directing the servants and guards to help the injured and get things moving.

"Take the men into the barracks and find clean blankets for them" Tyrion said to one of the servants, before turning to another "Where's Maester Wolkan?"

"On his way m'lord" said the older woman "He's gathering supplies"

Tyrion nodded, turning to a couple of lord Glover's men who stood watching "You two – go to the Maester's room and help him carry whatever he needs. Some of these men need urgent care"

The two men glanced at each other, but didn't move from their position. Tyrion's face twisted into a glare "Are you hard of hearing?"

"We don't take orders from you" said one of them

Nobody had noticed Sansa hovering in the shadows of the doors, nor the two old lords on the ramparts. The Winterfell household followed Tyrion's orders without question. As lord of Winterfell, lord Glover's guards should have followed his orders just as quickly – particularly given the situation. It wasn't as if Tyrion was asking them to commit treason against their own lord.

"You take your orders from lord Glover" said Tyrion, glaring at the men "I've never been to Deepwood Motte but I doubt it resembles Winterfell, of which I am the lord. I am your liege lord whether you like it or not, and I've asked you to assist with the injured – hardly unreasonable"

The activity in the courtyard stilled to watch the unfolding scene. The younger of the two men shifted uncomfortably, but the elder crossed his arms.

"I don't serve Lannisters, even if they're pretending to be a Stark"

Tyrion's lip curled in distaste "I can take your insults, but your disobedience is wasting time better spent getting my men seen by the Maester. Either do as I've asked with all the speed the old Gods will grant you, or you can go to the dungeon and when my men have been seen to I'll bring you before your lord and remove your head from your body"

Anger flashed across the older guards face. As he opened his mouth to respond, lord Glover's voice cut across the courtyard.

"Enough!" he bellowed, slamming his hand against the railing and dislodging some snow "You men would dare bring more shame to my house? Do as lord Tyrion has asked and pray to all the Gods I don't hang you both when you return"

Both of the guard's heads jerked towards the ramparts, paling instantly at the sight of lord Glover's thunderous expression. Without a word more of protest the men scurried off. Tyrion glanced at the ramparts, nodding his head to lord Glover before returning his attention to the injured guards. Alec was stood beside Tyrion, directing the focus to the men who were the worst off. Arya was among them too, but her focus was on Sansa. Grey eyes burned into hers from across the courtyard, conveying a silent challenge.

'Why aren't you out here?' they seemed to say

Shame bubbled through Sansa, and she took several quick steps forwards. A few of the servants noticed her first, bowing their heads as they hurried about their duties. The Queen glanced up to the ramparts again where lord Manderly was whispering away in lord Glover's ear. The sight caused her stomach to lurch, even as Alec's voice drifted to her.

"Your Grace" he said, drawing her attention. His face was a mess of cuts and dried blood, and his clothes were torn to shreds. Blood had seeped through the makeshift bandages on his shoulder and the man's face was heavy with tiredness.

Alec's greeting had caught Tyrion's attention, pulling him from his hurried conversation with Brice to her side. The lord of Winterfell offered her a tight smile as he joined them.

"What happened?" asked Sansa, studying Alec "You need to see the Maester"

"There are others worse off your Grace" said Alec, swallowing thickly "Apologies for the late return. I tried to send word, but the situation...was difficult to say the least. I didn't realise house Glover and house Manderly were here either – I know you didn't inform them of the plan to take Widows Watch"

"It was impossible to avoid them knowing" said Tyrion "Some of their men were in the courtyard when the gates opened, and word would get around the castle sooner or later"

Sansa's chest tightened, as if anticipating the bad news that was about to come. Alec and the guards looked as though they'd come from battle, when there should have been no need for one. Widows Watch had been empty when they'd sent men there before.

"You ran into trouble?" she asked, dreading the answer

"We were ambushed your Grace" said Alec "but we did complete the task – the wolf and the lion now fly over Widows Watch"

"The lion?" asked Tyrion, scrunching his nose

Sansa ignored Tyrion's questioning look for the moment, focusing instead on Alec "Who ambushed you?"

"Your Grace, it might be best to do this privately..."

"I need to know" she said "we can go over the details when you're rested"

Alec sighed, dropping his head "House Locke of Oldcastle. It appears they've joined Robin Flint's rebellion"


Arya tapped her fingers against the table in the great hall, trying hard to ignore the knife that seemed to call to her. If lord Manderly didn't shut his mouth soon she might be forced to close it for him. Just this afternoon Sansa had been making plans for the execution of Gawan Glover. For once her sister had allowed herself to be satisfied – they could finally give Tyrion some justice and they would have one less enemy. Whatever satisfaction Sansa had allowed herself had quickly been stolen from her however. Alec's return and the grim news he brought seemed to have blindsided the Queen.

Glancing along at her sister, sympathy curled through Arya. They'd met with Alec after Wolkan had seen to him and he'd told them the blunt truth of what happened. As planned, Alec had led a combined force of Winterfell, Cerwyn and Tallhart men to retake Widows Watch in the Queen's name. Lord Hornwood and Lord Mazin had sent men to join up with them on route. The young lord Mazin hadn't been able to join them as he was still a day's ride away with the free folk, but that was hardly a disaster. Sansa's plan had been simple – a show of power that would reinforce the message traitors to the crown would not go unpunished. Widows Watch had been empty since the Wolfswood; there shouldn't have been a battle at all. It was as Alec and the men were returning from Widows Watch that house Locke struck.

There was no way of knowing how house Locke knew of the force targeting Widows Watch, but if Arya had to guess she would say there had been scouts watching for any movement with orders to report to their nearest ally; lord Locke. Bronn had told Sansa men were quietly being recruited from the villages to join Robin Flint – who's to say they weren't being used as eyes and ears?

From what Alec had told them it was by the Broken Branch river that house Locke struck. There had been two hundred Locke men lying in wait, compared to only ninety of the combined force – it had been a bloodbath by all accounts.

"I don't understand how lord Locke managed to move his forces to the Broken Branch without being noticed" commented lord Manderly, in-between mouthfuls of food

"A ship" said Tyrion, toying with the fork in his hand "Moving by land would have been too slow and easily noticed. Lord Mazin's men sighted an unknown ship sailing from the direction of Oldcastle. It was sheer good fortune the old lord was suspicious and sent his son to investigate. The young lord Mazin and his men arrived just before the battle was lost from what Alec reported"

"House Locke has no naval strength" said lord Manderly "White Harbour is the only port in the North"

"True, but both Widows Watch and Oldcastle are on the coast" explained Tyrion, as if explaining something very obvious "they'd hardly need a trading galley to transport men around the coast of the North"

Sansa sank further into her chair, staring emptily at her plate. While Arya was sympathetic to the fact this latest development was the last thing Sansa wanted to hear, the Queen hadn't taken charge of the situation either. Even in the courtyard Sansa had hung back while Tyrion organised treatment for the men. To Arya, it appeared as if Sansa had tried to retreat behind her Queenly mask – only to find it no longer worked.

"Where would house Locke have gotten a ship?" mused lord Manderly

While both Sansa and lord Glover were lost in their own misery, lord Manderly was quite keen to discuss this latest development as if it was interesting gossip. Sansa hadn't wanted either of these lords to know about Robin's rebellion attempt, but it was impossible to stop the whispers around the castle. Lord Manderly came across as genial enough but Arya could see straight through him – he wanted to know everything, but didn't want to be blunt about it. If lord Glover wasn't drowning in shame he'd have likely been upfront in demanding answers. Sansa had been the one answering lord Manderly initially but unusually for Sansa she'd seemed unsure of what to say and ended up babbling. After the first few questions Tyrion had taken over, displaying far more patience than Arya possessed. Even so, the lord of Winterfell was quickly growing bored of lord Manderly's game.

"I suspect it was Robin's ship" said Tyrion

"Where would house Flint have gotten the necessary gold?" said lord Manderly "White Harbour is full of ships, and even a small one as you're suggesting wouldn't come cheaply"

"Again, I fear I wasn't invited to Robin and Gawan's planning sessions" said Tyrion, as lord Glover flinched "but from what we do know, they made a large sum of gold by selling me to Grey Worm and clearly have a contact across the narrow sea where they intended to sell the women. It seems likely this contact sold them at least one ship"

"Perhaps" agreed lord Manderly, rubbing his chin "I don't understand why lord Locke would support Robin Flint though? Such an act is treasonous"

"Robin Flint fancies himself as King and he's somehow convinced lord Locke it's a good idea. It's a fool's quest – no better than Balon Greyjoy's rebellion years ago. He's a green boy playing at being King"

Tyrion passed it off like a minor annoyance, rather than a major concern. They'd been forced to acknowledge what Robin was doing to the two old lords, but there was no need to go into detail. Sansa didn't trust either house, but they couldn't lie to their faces either. Both Arya and Tyrion had suggested telling the lords everything – their support for Sansa could end the rebellion quickly. Yet the Queen refused to involve them, forcing them into the awkward situation of giving the lords enough information to satisfy without provoking involvement.

Arya moved her gaze to lord Manderly across the table. He was smiling cheerfully, but there was an edge in his eyes that told Arya he didn't quite believe Tyrion.

"It's rather strange, wouldn't you say? Why would house Locke commit treason by attacking your men, for the fantasy of a boy who thinks himself King?"

Tyrion dropped his fork to the table, straightening in his chair "I'm glad you brought this up my lord, I was hoping you would have the answer"

"Why would I have the answer?"

"Well, both house Flint and house Locke take their lead from house Manderly do they not?" asked Tyrion innocently

"Are you suggesting I'm involved in this?"

"Certainly not my lord, I'm merely suggesting there is an issue with your banner men. Perhaps it's linked to the issues you've been experiencing with shipments at White Harbour?"

Arya stifled a laugh as lord Manderly floundered under Tyrion's questioning. She glanced to her right, wondering what her sister thought of the proceedings but the Queen was staring vacantly at the table in front of her.

"The shipping issues will be resolved upon my return to White Harbour" said lord Manderly "and I can assure you I do not tolerate dissent among my banner men"

"That is reassuring to hear" said Tyrion, nodding approvingly "I believe lord Mazin is organising a force to search Oldcastle. From the report Alec gave, it's unlikely there's anyone there but it's better to be cautious"

The old lord lifted his chin "As you pointed out house Locke was sworn to house Manderly – my men will join the search too"

"Excellent" said Tyrion "I shall write to lord Mazin and inform him. After what happened to our own men it's better to send a large force"

"I don't understand why you didn't ask for my help taking Widows Watch" he said

'Because you're a snake' thought Arya 'because you slithered off to Deepwood Motte rather than help us'

Lord Glover wearily lifted his head "Because of Gawan. Neither of our houses aided the search for lord Tyrion nor the hunt for his attackers. That's why the Queen didn't seek our help – it's damned obvious"

Sansa's blue eyes were dull as she looked between the lords "You're quite right"

"Your Grace, do you need the aid of our houses in dealing with this?" asked lord Glover, clearly as fed up of the games as Arya was

Sansa's face was nothing but a regal mask, unless you knew her as Arya did – then you could see the cracks in the facade.

"I need any word of Robin Flint, Grey Worm and now lord Locke reporting to me. I suspect they're hiding further North but searching it without a lead is a waste of time and resources. Sooner or later they'll emerge like Gawan and we'll capture them" said Sansa "There is no need for further involvement of your houses"

Lord Manderly opened his mouth as if to protest, but lord Glover cut him off "As you wish your Grace"

Sansa nodded "Gawan Glover will die tomorrow"

"Aye, your Grace" said the old lord, his face hardening "I'll be there"

"No, you won't" said Sansa "Gawan shamed your house, but you humbled yourself before my husband. As a sign of good faith between our houses Gawan's execution will not be done publicly, though notice of his death will be spread across the North"

Lord Glover sagged in his chair, a hint of relief in his eyes. He might have accepted his son was a monster, but Arya doubted he truly wanted to watch him die.

"I'd implore you both to return to your own keeps as soon as possible" said Sansa, pushing back from the table with Tyrion rising next to her.

"Your Grace, I am happy to stay and help you navigate this challenging time" said lord Manderly

"It's quite alright my lord – I know you have your own duties to attend to" said Sansa.

Lord Glover looked thoroughly resigned, but lord Manderly didn't seem to understand his own dismissal. As Arya stood from her seat, she turned a wicked grin on him "If you need any assistance in White Harbour do let me know. I've been quite eager to kill the traitors that hurt my brother, and your banner men all appear to be turning their cloaks"

"There will be no difficulties I can assure you" said lord Manderly, bobbing his head up and down

Arya brushed her thumb over the hilt of needle "I hope not my lord"


Sansa brushed her hair without conscious thought, her mind still reeling from yet another betrayal. In truth she knew relatively little about house Locke - only that the heir to that house had been Ser Donnell Locke and he was killed at the red wedding. The head of the house had been lord Ondrew Locke, but the old man had died not long before the long night. Arron Locke had taken control of the house but Sansa knew very little of him, or his relationship to the main branch of the house. Tyrion had written to him before but the replies he received were always short and vague.

Why hadn't she taken more of an interest? Sansa had placed too much importance on the major houses; naively believing the smaller houses would cause her no issues. Now Robin had gained the support of a Northern house, would more follow?

'What we don't know is usually what gets us killed' advised Littlefinger

How could she know who was loyal to her? Robin and Gawan had been charming to her face - and then brutalised her husband. Lord Locke had kept to himself, but given no indication he was a turncloak.

Sansa's brushing was halted as a hand closed around hers, followed by Tyrion's deep voice "Your hair looks wonderful wife, not a strand out of place"

A faint blush rose in Sansa's face as she realised she'd been mindlessly brushing the same section of hair for several minutes "I'll take your word for it my love"

"As you should, I happen to be an excellent judge of such things"

She turned her gaze to Tyrion, some of her worries easing as she met his warm green eyes. Placing her brush on the table she cupped his face, letting her fingers fiddle with his hair.

"You were wonderful today" she told him "I didn't know how to handle things in the courtyard. I never expected Alec to run into trouble, or for lord Manderly and lord Glover to be here when he returned"

"None of us expected it" said Tyrion "and I'm quite happy to have been some help"

"Robin has a ship Tyrion" said Sansa, her voice shaking "When I spoke with Grey Worm he said Robin and Gawan had been making a deal across the Narrow Sea…we thought they might be hiring sellswords…what if he has…"

"You worry too much dear wife. Robin isn't as clever as he thinks he is. I understand the betrayal of house Locke is an unexpected problem but it is only one house - there's no reason to suspect any other houses will follow, nor do they have reason to. You're an excellent Queen, but you're far too hard on yourself"

She swallowed thickly "Men died because I sent them to retake Widows Watch in my name"

"Those men died because a Northern house turned on them" said Tyrion, covering her hands with his own

"I sent them to their deaths"

"You didn't know that would happen; nobody could have known" said Tyrion

"I never wanted any of them to die for me"

"Your brother Robb sent two thousand of his men to their deaths at the battle on Green Fork; while taking the larger part of his army to defeat my brother at Whispering Wood" said Tyrion "Tactically it was an excellent decision, but I've no doubt he lamented it. The burden of ruling is a cruel one - you can plan things to the last detail and something unexpected will come along and make a mockery of it"

Part of Sansa wanted to latch onto the comfort Tyrion was offering, but her fears and regrets were difficult to ignore.

"Are you sure you don't want to seek help from lord Glover and lord Manderly? They may be difficult to work with but I don't believe they would betray you either. I know we told them Robin was hardly a concern beyond capturing him but if you're worried about sellswords and his attempt to build a rebellion, involving house Glover and house Manderly could make things easier. It would show the North is united against Robin and those who stand with him"

Sansa's resolve shuddered under Tyrion's logic, but didn't break. What Tyrion said was true - the support of all the major houses would strengthen her position and weaken Robin's, but Sansa couldn't trust them. Lord Manderly was everybody's friend and nobody's, while lord Glover was clearly struggling with what his son had done and wanted nothing more than to hide in Deepwood Motte. House Dormund was too close to house Glover to trust, and Sansa barely knew lady Dustin of Barrowton. She could rely on houses Tallhart, Cerwyn, Mazin and Hornwood without question. Whatever Robin was planning, they would have to be enough. The risk of the other houses turning their cloaks to Robin was simply too great to ignore.

"I'm sure" she said, shaking her head "I think it's better we don't involve them"

Tyrion nodded "As you say my Queen. Now tell me – why is the lion flying over Widows Watch?"

"Because I told Alec to make sure both of our sigils were raised when the castle was taken"

"Why?" he asked, furrowing his brow

"You're my husband and the lord of Winterfell" she said, pride filling her voice "After everything Robin did to you it's only right your sigil flies over his family home. They treated you as if you were worthless and I won't let it stand – you mean more to me than anything"

Tyrion's eyes brightened at her words, a smile taking over his face "Thank you"

"I just wish we could find Robin and end this" she said "it's taken so long to get any justice for you and the women who were kidnapped"

"There's nothing more we could have done" he said "its possible Gawan's death will draw Robin out of hiding, or rattle him into making a mistake"

"Possibly. We'll see what answers Gawan has for us tomorrow" said Sansa "Arya's rather excited to interrogate him"

"Are you sure you need to do this? I can be there if you want" he offered - though the way his fingers were fiddling with hers showed his nerves at the idea

"Arya and I will handle Gawan" she promised "I don't want you to worry about it"

"I don't want you to worry either. You may be Queen but you're not alone – Arya and I are here to help you"

"I appreciate that more than you could ever know my love" she said "I'm sorry I've been so distracted this afternoon"

The corners of Tyrion's mouth turned upwards "You have been distracted all afternoon, and it's unacceptable"

"Oh, really?"

Tyrion nodded "Absolutely. As your husband it's my duty to fix this"

A hint of a smile crossed Sansa's face "And how do you plan to do that?"

"I shall distract you from distraction" he said, running his fingers up and down her arm in a way that sent a thrill through Sansa. Tyrion leaned forwards, pressing a kiss to her mouth that was over far too quickly

"Your face is rather distracting" she agreed, brushing her thumb over his cheek

Tyrion's smile widened as he took hold of her wrists "Shall we move to the bed wife? You can tell me all about how distracting my face is"

A giggle escaped Sansa as she let Tyrion lead her over to the bed, and they settled on top of the blankets. He was right - she may well be worrying for nothing. One way or another they would get answers from Gawan and it was entirely possible they would capture Robin before his rebellion could gain any more momentum. The Queenly voice in her head told her to not get distracted - to rebuild her walls and protect herself. Yet the soft smile on Tyrion's face as he leaned over her in the bed drowned out everything else.

His hand caressed her cheek as he trailed kisses down the side of her face and neck.

"Am I distracting you?" he breathed in her ear

Sansa hummed in consideration as Tyrion continued his affections, stoking a fire deep inside her. She brushed her hands through his hair, drawing him closer.

"You are" she admitted "but I think you can do better"

Tyrion paused, propping himself up to grin at her "How so?"

She leaned forwards, kissing his cheek "You can take off your clothes"


Tyrion eyed the grey horse warily as the stable boys readied the creature to go riding. Distracting Sansa last night had proven exhausting, and Tyrion had been sound asleep when his wife woke him this morning. Fortunately the Sansa that had kissed him awake wasn't the one who retreated behind her shield last night. As soon as Sansa had seen the courtyard and the state of the men she'd withdrawn; spiralling down a tunnel of doubt and blame.

"It's a beautiful horse" said Alec, admiring the grey stallion next to him

"Let's hope it accepts its rider"

"He seems quite relaxed" said Alec, patting the horse "wasn't scared by Lyon either"

Tyrion glanced to the golden wolf stood in front of the horse. Before they went riding Tyrion thought an introduction to Lyon was in order and he'd instructed his friend to be on his best behaviour. Nevertheless Lyon had stared at the horse for a moment before letting loose his puppy bark. The horse had barely lifted his head at the direwolf and Lyon had sat with his head cocked to one side ever since – as if he couldn't understand why this much larger creature wasn't cowering in terror of him.

"It's been a long time since I've been riding" said Tyrion "at least without sharing a horse"

"You didn't enjoy our journey North?"

"Who wouldn't enjoy weeks of traveling in chains, while being passed between horses like a child?"

Alec snorted "Fair point"

Tyrion turned his attention to his friend. Compared to yesterday Alec looked much fresher, though there was still a heaviness in his face. Of the ninety men Alec had taken with him, only twenty made it out of the battle by the Broken Branch. Winterfell lost fifteen men, with the other houses losing trusted guards as well. The remaining Cerwyn and Tallhart men had returned to Winterfell with Alec, and Sansa had offered them the hospitality of the castle until they were well enough to return to their own homes.

"How's your shoulder?" asked Tyrion

"Better" said Alec "Maester Wolkan fixed it up. Back to normal in no time"

"How's Lyle? I didn't get much chance to see him yesterday"

"It was a bad injury" admitted Alec "the sword cut through his side, but missed anything vital. If lord Mazin hadn't turned up when he did we'd have all been dead"

Tyrion nodded, guilt winding through him – it wasn't just Sansa who regretted the injuries the men had suffered. No matter how hard he tried Tyrion couldn't ignore the fact this had all started with the Wolfswood. If not for old lord Mazin sending his son and reinforcements to Alec's aid, Tyrion would have lost two good friends, and many more decent Northerners would have died.

"The Locke men hadn't expected Karlon Mazin to arrive with reinforcements" continued Alec "Some of them fled I'm sorry to say, but we were in no position to follow. I can't help but feel I let the Queen down"

Tyrion shook his head "Certainly not. The priority will always be protecting our men, and there was no indication house Locke would turn against us"

"The young lord Mazin saw us back to Ramsgate and sent out scouting parties to see if they could find any more but they'd long gone"

"A ship you think?"

"Aye, the old lord Mazin had heard reports of an unknown ship lurking around the coast and grew suspicious. He doesn't know Arron Locke very well either, but told me the Lockes were close to the Flints in the past"

"Whatever the case, Sansa hopes to get answers from Gawan tonight"

Knowing what had happened yesterday and what would happen tonight made the idea of going for a ride seem ridiculous, but it was Sansa's idea. When he'd eventually woken to Sansa's repeated kisses around his face she'd told him in no uncertain terms their plans for the day.

"As soon as lord Glover and lord Manderly are gone we're going riding" she'd told him

"Is now the best time?" he'd asked, rubbing the sleep from his eyes

"I told you we'd go riding when you were better, and Winterfell has been so busy the last few weeks. I'd quite like to have you to myself for a while"

That was all it took to convince Tyrion. Despite what she'd said, it was quite obvious to him she was seeking an escape from her crown for a few hours and Tyrion was happy to oblige. When Alec brought the news yesterday afternoon Sansa had withdrawn so suddenly it terrified him. Sansa protected herself by withdrawing and he always worried she'd go to a place he couldn't reach her. It had taken a little coaxing but she'd let him distract her last night and if going for a ride took her mind off her troubles he would ride all day and night with her.

"I'll meet you by the gates at dinner time, if that's ok?" asked Alec

Tyrion shuffled on the spot, glancing down at the floor "I know Sansa put you up to this but there's truly no need. You've been away from your wife for over a week and you're injured – the last thing you need is a guest"

The captain of the guards smiled easily, grasping his shoulder "I've invited you to dinner before if I remember right"

"Yes, but I'd more than understand if you wanted some peace. Gods know you've earned a break"

"And I'm taking a break" he said "I'll be at home with my wife, and my friend is coming over for dinner"

"Alec..."

"The Queen didn't force me Tyrion. If you must know she asked if I had any ideas how to get you out of the castle for a while and I suggested having you over for dinner"

"I'm not a child" he grumbled "I hardly need a minder because Sansa will be gone for a few hours"

Alec laughed "Don't be like that – she was worried you'd sit in your chambers, hating yourself all night for not being there when the piece of shit dies"

As much as he wanted to deny it what Alec said was true. He would have likely spent the evening torn between self-hatred and worry for Sansa and Arya. At least Alec had made him feel slightly better about intruding on his evening. When Sansa told him about that part of her plan he hadn't been particularly thrilled.

"You're getting rid of me?" he'd asked

"Of course not. I just thought you'd like a break – we've had weeks of formal dinners after all, and I thought Alec might appreciate your company. A lot of the men he set out with died; a friendly ear could be good for him"

Despite his initial irritation at being evicted for the evening Tyrion couldn't be angry with Sansa; not when he knew her actions were motivated by love for him. The concept was still rather new to him. All his life any show of concern towards him was nearly always motivated by something else; the only exceptions had been Jamie and Podrick. Having a wife whose only motivation was genuine care for him was still a learning curve – he was too used to being the last concern rather than the first.

"Ready sweetheart?" came Sansa's voice as she rounded the corner into the stables. A faint blush coloured her cheeks as she realised Tyrion wasn't alone "Hello Alec"

The man smiled, inclining his head "Your Grace, I was just leaving"

"How are your injuries?" she asked

"Quite well, thank you. The Maester assures me there's no long term damage"

"That's good to hear"

"I'll leave you in peace, your Grace – safe travels"

"Thank you" said Sansa, stepping aside to let him out of the stables

Alec patted Tyrion's shoulder before moving off "I'll see you tonight then, my wife's quite excited"

"She hasn't met a dwarf before?" snorted Tyrion

"It's Lyon she wants to meet!" called Alec, flashing him a grin as he left

With the Winterfell captain gone Tyrion turned his full attention to Sansa, his throat tightening as he drank in the sight. The Queen wore a long grey gown, covered by a dark grey cloak with thick fur around the top. Dark gloves covered her hands, while her fiery hair hung freely around her face and the necklace he'd given her sat proudly around her neck. Tyrion was certain if someone was asked to describe what a Queen looked like they would describe Sansa; powerful, regal and breath-taking.

"You look stunning Sansa" he said

Her face lit up at his compliment "Thank you my love – you look rather dashing yourself"

Tyrion nodded his appreciation, but he knew how odd a man like him looked beside a woman like Sansa. When their marriage was announced surely many Northerners thought Sansa had lost her mind.

He pushed the thoughts away as Sansa came to his side. It didn't matter what anyone else thought; Sansa had chosen him – that had to count for something.

"Is your horse ready?" she asked

"I think so. Lyon's intimidation tactics have failed"

"Is that why he's moping?"

"Probably" said Tyrion "He barked and the horse barely lifted his head"

Sansa turned her attention to the wolf still sat opposite the horse "I think your bark's very impressive Lyon. Anyone would be terrified"

Lyon lifted his nose as if Sansa's compliment was an even greater insult.

"He still doesn't like me" sighed Sana

"Of course he does" said Tyrion "he's just being playful. If he didn't like you he'd ignore you completely"

"I think its jealousy"

"Oh?"

Sansa wound her hand into the back of Tyrion's hair, sweeping down to kiss him.

"He doesn't like to share, and you're all mine" she said, pulling back "Wolves can be possessive you know. We both want the same lion"

"For different reasons I hope. As much as I love Lyon, there are certain things he's unsuited for"

Sansa ran her finger down his cheek, toying with a strand of hair "What things would those be?"

"Have you forgotten last night already?" he teased

"I might well need a reminder. If I recall I was very distracted"


Arya sank back in her chair, reading through the letter she'd written to Jon one more time.

Jon,

I suppose you're enjoying life beyond the wall since you haven't replied to any of our letters, and Bran assures us you're still alive.

What would you say if I told you Bran warged into an innocent man and used him to free Grey Worm? I didn't think I'd ever come close to killing one of our family but Bran pushed me to the limit. Sansa wasn't happy either but for the sake of 'unity' between our kingdoms Bran got away without punishment. Tyrion thinks there must be a good reason for Bran to do something like that and I don't know what to think. He acts like he's not Bran Stark anymore, but part of him is. I don't want to lose another brother.

We've got one of the bastards that hurt Tyrion, but house Locke have joined Robin Flint. I'm going to enjoy killing them all when the time comes.

Not much news to report other than that. Exploring what's west of Westeros is still my aim, but it'll have to wait until the North's stable. Bran's no help and you're beyond the wall - someone has to look after Sansa and Tyrion. They're both fine, but this situation is straining both of them in different ways.

Look after yourself big brother.

Arya

Not her most cheerful work but there was hardly good news to share with Jon either. The satisfaction of being able to kill Gawan had been overshadowed by the betrayal of house Locke and the loss of so many men. Bran's betrayal was impossible to forget either. No matter how Arya looked at it she could see no reason for her brother to free Grey Worm - rather than help them he'd released another enemy.

She sighed, going through the motions of sealing the letter. At least lord Glover and lord Manderly had gone. Sansa had insisted they see them off this morning but it was hardly a fond farewell. Lord Manderly had looked put out he was being dismissed and lord Glover had been desperate to leave. Sansa had asked the old lord if he wanted Gawan's bones when he was dead, and the man had paled considerably at the question.

"No" he'd answered, his voice heavy "I have no son"

It was better the lords were gone - it would make Gawan's death much simpler. Sansa had made it clear to her they would respect Tyrion's wishes with regards to Gawan. If Tyrion wanted it to be public, or swing the sword himself they would support him completely.

A smile spread across Arya's face as she placed the letter to one side of her desk, and reached for her knives piled ready for sharpening.

Tyrion would never know, but they'd both hoped he wouldn't want to be there. Their goal tonight would be two-fold; to get as much information from Gawan as possible, and make him suffer for every injury, insult and indignity he inflicted on Tyrion. For once both she and Sansa were in full agreement.

After yesterday Sansa had wisely decided she needed a break. Watching her freeze in the face of Alec's return and the news he brought hadn't been pleasant, but it was a sign how much her sister had grown that she recognised her behaviour. Sansa couldn't retreat behind her icy façade when faced with a challenge - it blinded her to so many things and hurt all those around her. Fortunately she'd corrected herself. There was nothing to be done until they interrogated Gawan and going for a ride with Tyrion would give them both a break. From what her sister had said earlier Tyrion had been rather put out at being sent to dinner with Alec tonight, but Arya knew it was for the best.

There was no telling how long they'd be with Gawan, and if Tyrion was left alone he would undoubtedly spend the evening worrying over them and hating himself for not being there. The last thing they wanted was Tyrion wandering into the dungeons looking for them.

Arya lifted the nearest knife, twisting it in her hand. She disliked keeping her brother in the dark, but it was better he didn't know the full details of tonight. Gawan would die, and they'd tell Tyrion all the details they learned from him. Sending him out of the castle for a few hours was only to protect him. Sansa would no doubt spend the day smothering him with affection to soothe any insecurity he felt, and Arya would do something with him tomorrow.

It had been far too long since Arya had a chance to use her skills, and if anyone deserved a painful death it was Gawan Glover.


"The North has a surprising beauty" said Tyrion

Sansa nodded her head in agreement "I couldn't wait to leave the North and see the rest of the Westeros. I thought Kings Landing would be this beautiful place, but in hindsight it was horrible – even before I saw what Joffrey was"

"Too many people crowded into too little space, and the whole place smelling of shit"

Sansa giggled, glancing across at her husband. Tyrion was dressed in a dark navy tunic; a grey cloak with fur trim hung around him. A smile covered his face as their horses moved forwards, with Lyon trotting along beside them. They'd been riding for about an hour, and to Tyrion's relief it was the opposite direction to the Wolfswood. To the east of Winterfell there was a small woods located near part of the White Knife river. While the river ran from White Harbour a few streams had developed from the main source and it was here Sansa wanted to take Tyrion. Ten guards had accompanied them for protection, but Sansa had instructed them to leave some distance. She didn't want to be the Queen in the North today; she wanted to be Sansa Stark – a young woman enjoying a ride with her husband.

"How's your horse?" she asked

"Wonderful" he said, patting the grey horse "Thank you Sansa"

She smiled, pleased to see him enjoying his name day gift "Not much further to go"

"We can go as far as you want my dear" he said "I'm perfectly fine"

To Sansa's joy that appeared to be true. The saddle Tyrion had designed apparently made riding easier for him and he hadn't struggled at all so far. Nevertheless she didn't want to push him. This was the furthest he'd been since the Wolfswood, and despite the improvements in his health she knew he still tired easily.

"You ride very well" said Tyrion, watching her snowy white horse trot forwards

"You sound surprised"

"I never imagined you would like riding" he admitted

She raised an eyebrow "You think I spent my whole childhood doing needlework?"

"That's what my source told me"

"Would your source happen to be Arya?"

"I can neither confirm nor deny that"

Sansa laughed "You need a less biased source love. Yes, I have always loved needlework but riding was enjoyable too. I could get out of the castle for a while and I felt like a Queen going around on a horse"

"And now you are a Queen riding around on a horse" he teased "dreams can come true"

They continued forwards, with Sansa taking the lead. The trees weren't particularly dense in this area but there was enough to give them some privacy. She took her time leading them through the woods in case Tyrion struggled with his horse, but much to her surprise he easily kept up.

"Are you examining every tree wife?" he called from behind her

"You've not seen much of the North" she called back "I don't want to lose you"

"Ah, can you imagine the ravens you'd send? Lord of Winterfell – lost after stepping foot outside castle"

She rolled her eyes, urging her horse into a trot "If I'm going too slow for you..."

Her horse was eager to stretch its legs as it rumbled to life beneath her with the cool Northern breeze whipping her hair back as she increased the pace. A thundering of hooves behind her indicated Tyrion had accepted the challenge and the guards were keeping up somewhere further back. The trees and bushes rushed past as she charged forwards, a lightness filling her chest that drowned out the fear – if only for a little while. The path opened up in front of her as flicks of snow covered her gown and cloak. Sansa didn't care; she was free. There was no crown, no threats or duty out here.

The bray of a horse to her right caught her attention, as Tyrion's horse caught up to hers. He grinned at her, his hair blowing wildly around him as they drew level – Sansa thought he'd never looked as handsome as he did then. Mischief shone in his bright green eyes, and the carefree laugh that fell from him warmed every inch of her.

"Trying to escape me?" he laughed

"Never"


The sun was just beginning to make it's descent in the distance, signalling it would soon be time to return to Winterfell. Tyrion wound his arm tighter around Sansa, not quite ready for the day to end. Sansa had taken him to a secluded spot near a stream; hidden by the hills and valleys that made up the Northern landscape – it had been nothing short of perfect.

A thrill went through Tyrion recalling their race through the woods. Sansa had been so full of life – warm, and bright with an innocence that had long been stolen from her. They'd jostled for position with Sansa's horse beating his own by mere feet. The day had only gotten better from there. The guards had remained out of sight as they settled onto blankets by the stream, where Tyrion had managed to build a fire much to Sansa's surprise. They'd brought food from the kitchens with them, and wasted the afternoon away talking and enjoying each other. He'd taught Sansa how to skip stones on the stream, and in return she'd shared the secret art of building a castle from the sludgy snow – their model of Winterfell sat off to one side with Lyon studying it in confusion.

They'd lain onto the blankets again not so long ago, with Sansa resting her head on his shoulder as he ran his hand through her soft hair.

"What does that one look like?" asked Sansa, indicating the cloud currently passing over head

"I'd say it most closely resembles a cat" he said "after it fell from a window"

Sansa swatted him "You're such a cynic"

"Guilty as charged" he said "What would you say it looks like?"

She turned her blue eyes to the sky, a soft smile on her face "It could be a lion"

"A lion with a squashed face?"

"That's its hair" she said, before pointing to the other end "and there's a tail"

Tyrion squinted, trying to see what his wife did "Have you ever seen a lion before?"

"I'm looking at one right now" she said, kissing his cheek

"I do hope my face is less squashed than the cloud lion, though our tails look accurate"

A soft laugh fell from Sansa "You're terrible"

"You're not denying it"

"You're my perfect lion" she told him, kissing her way down the side of his face "and I won't hear any other opinions"

Warmth ignited in Tyrion at the conviction in her voice and he pulled her tightly against him "I love you"

"I love you too" she said, snuggling into him "We'll have to head back soon"

"Do we have to?" he groaned

"I think people might miss us if we disappeared"

"We could become free folk" he suggested "I'd happily be your spear husband"

Sansa snorted "Wouldn't I be your spear wife?"

"You're much fiercer than me" he said "I would happily cede to your leadership"

"Think of the people" said Sansa, rubbing her hand down her side "If we disappear, who'll be in charge?"

A shudder ran through Tyrion "Gods, you may be right. Can you imagine what Arya would be like as Queen?"

"I try not to. I imagine there would be a lot of bodies involved – if she stuck around long enough to accept the crown"

"She'd probably hunt us down" said Tyrion "Drag us from our hut beyond the wall and back to Winterfell"

"Probably" said Sansa

Tyrion turned to Sansa, pressing a kiss to her forehead "We have to go back, don't we?"

She nodded but made no effort to move "I have plans with Arya and you have a dinner to go to"

"I'd rather not" he said "What if you need me?"

"I'll always need you Tyrion, and tonight I need you to do this for me"

"You could come with me. Arya's quite capable of slitting the bastard's throat – a large number of the guards would do it in a heartbeat"

Sansa shook her head, gently untangling herself from his grip until she was sat over him "You know I can't do that. I need answers from Gawan, and I will be there to hear them. This is our only chance, and if I'm going to focus I need to know you're ok"

"I'll be fine in our chambers with Lyon"

She bent over him, kissing his forehead "Please Tyrion. I know how much Gawan bothers you – for my peace of mind enjoy a night with your friend and forget about him"

Sansa's blue eyes bore into him, silently pleading with him to agree. It was his own fault for not being strong enough to kill Gawan himself. Sansa and Arya shouldn't be cleaning up his mess.

'There are no lone wolves'

Arya's words came back to him, and Tyrion found himself nodding his agreement to Sansa. He was part of their pack – if this is what they needed him to do then he'd do it. The prospect of seeing Gawan's grinning face again made him nauseous; there was no point denying it. Just like in the crypts during the long night, Tyrion was forced to accept there was nothing he could do.

"Thank you" breathed Sansa, brushing her mouth against his for a sweet moment "There's nothing at all for you to worry about, and I'll be in our chambers when you get back"

"Is that a promise?" he asked, already missing her warmth against him as he sat up too

Her eyes twinkled with mischief "It is. I do believe it's my turn to distract you tonight"

"I rather like distracting you"

"You can't have all the fun love" she said "your distraction techniques have given me several ideas to try"

Heat raced through Tyrion at her words, setting every nerve on fire "That sounds intriguing"

Sansa smiled widely "It will be"


Arya didn't bother lifting her head when the door creaked open "You're late"

"Did you have other plans?"

Her mouth twitched upwards as she lifted Needle for her sister to inspect "I've been ready all day"

Sansa folded her hands in front of her, lifting an eyebrow at the sword "Good"

"Did you enjoy riding Tyrion?"

A blush crept across Sansa's face "Excuse me?"

Arya grinned wickedly at her older sister "You heard me"

"We had a lovely day. The only reason we came back at all was so the North didn't have to suffer you ruling it"

"I wouldn't rule it" snorted Arya

"You're my heir" taunted Sansa "If I die you'll be Queen"

"I'd suggest you choose someone else, or ride your husband more often"

"If we get this on with this perhaps I will"

Arya smirked, pushing up from the chair to join her sister by the door. Embarrassing Sansa about her bedroom activity was getting more difficult, but Arya saw it as a good sign. After everything she suffered at Ramsay's hands Sansa's idea of intimacy was badly damaged. Little by little Sansa was gaining confidence in that area and Arya didn't doubt it was because of Tyrion. Her sister had admitted to her before Daenerys came to Winterfell that she hated the idea of being bedded again. Arya didn't need the details of what Sansa and Tyrion did to know it was good for her sister – that wasn't to say she wouldn't mock them about it.

"Come on then" said Arya "let's have some fun with Gawan Glover"

Sansa's eyes hardened "It's time that justice is done"


Tyrion smiled watching Alec help his wife clear the plates. He'd gone to help them, but they'd both insisted he was a guest and therefore wasn't to lift a finger. Alec's wife was a petite woman with long brown hair and a warm smile. Her name was Alise and upon meeting him she'd thanked him for saving her in the crypts.

"You and Queen Sansa saved so many of us m'lord" she'd said "the children were crying and we all thought we would die – but you and the Queen didn't hesitate to defend us"

In truth Tyrion didn't remember the woman. The crypt had been full of women and children, and to his shame he'd spent most of the long night drinking too much wine and complaining he shouldn't have been down there. Nevertheless Tyrion had assured her the gratitude was unnecessary and implored her to call him Tyrion.

Dinner had been lovely and Alise had been every bit as welcoming as her husband, with conversation flowing easily between them. Alec's home was marginally better kept than others in the village, but still rather cramped. The long ride today had quite exhausted Lyon and Alise had quickly taken to fussing over the little wolf. Lyon was currently lying on a spare pillow in front of the fire, with a bowl of water and a plate of scraps set before him.

"You realise he'll be scratching at your door every time we come to the village now" said Tyrion, as Alec and Alise joined him on the mismatched chairs around the hearth

"He's more than welcome" said Alise "such a sweet little thing"

Alec wrapped his arm around her, a smile covering his face "Tyrion says it'll be Lyon, but he means himself really"

"Quite true" he agreed "dinner was wonderful, thank you both very much"

"It's no bother" said Alise "it's lovely to meet you – Alec's told me a lot about you"

"And you" said Tyrion "I don't understand why it took him so long to introduce us"

Alec snorted "Getting you away from the Queen is impossible"

"I can't help being in demand"

The hearth crackled warmly as they shared stories, but Tyrion's mind couldn't help but drift to Sansa and Arya in Winterfell. This was what Sansa needed him to do, and deep down he knew she was right - though it did little to ease his guilt. He had to get stronger, no matter what.

He was part of the Stark pack and had no intention of being the weak link.


Gawan tugged his arms downwards but the chains refused to budge. When lunch had come to his cell he'd eaten it without a second thought. It was only when an unnatural tiredness overtook him soon after he realised it had been laced with some kind of potion. Rather than the cell he'd spent nearly a week in Gawan had awoken to find himself in near darkness – in a different dungeon than the one he'd been kept in. His arms were chained above his head, pulling him upwards until he was practically on his toes, while chains around his ankles kept his legs spread apart and allowed him no movement in any direction. A single torch burned in the cold dungeon, illuminating a space that appeared to have been abandoned years ago. Everything about it was old fashioned, including the stall like cells that lined each side. He was strung up like a piece of meat in the corner rather than in one of the rooms and Gawan hadn't seen anyone since he awoke.

He clenched his teeth, tugging again at his hands.

This was the damned dwarf's fault. The creature had tricked him into making mistakes and his father had been there to hear it all. It was just a waiting game – his father was angry, but he wouldn't abandon him. Robin had surely heard by now too; there would be men coming for him. This was just scare tactics. Sansa wouldn't kill him and risk offending his father for the sake of her pet lion.

Gawan's shoulders ached as he hung in the darkness. Even his face was still sore. The imp had managed to break his nose before he got the upper hand. A sour taste filled his mouth at the memory - his father had been hiding behind his cell with the others. They'd all seen the little runt hit him; it was humiliating. The imp wasn't as weak as he remembered but it hardly mattered - when he was free he'd teach his pet some manners.

After what seemed like hours a light flickered to life in the corner of dungeon, followed by another. Arya Stark entered first, followed by the Queen.

"Queen Sansa, lady Arya" he called, inclining his head "I think there's been a misunderstanding"

Sansa stopped a few feet away; her face could have been carved from stone as she looked at him. Arya paid him no attention – lighting a few more torches around the corner of the dungeon and starting a fire in the corner. He tried to follow her movement, but his position gave him no room to turn.

Instead he focused on Sansa "Your Grace, if you'd let me explain I'm sure you'd understand the situation"

"Understand what?" she asked "That you're a monster. That you and Robin Flint plotted against me and tortured my husband"

"That's not true" he said, shaking his shaggy head "the dwarf's lying to you"

"No, he isn't" she said, her voice sending a chill through the dungeon "You're going to die tonight Gawan, but first you're going to answer all of my questions"

"I already told you everything that happened your Grace - I was never near the Wolfswood"

"You're a poor liar. I was blind to it before, but I know exactly what you are now"

'You have no idea' he thought, struggling to hide his anger. He hated playing the role of Gawan Glover, heir to Deepwood Motte. It had its uses but it got in the way of everything else; the things he really enjoyed.

"Your father's disowned you and gone back to Deepwood Motte" she continued "There is no-one coming to rescue you, and one way or another you will tell us everything we want to know"

Gawan's mind fought with itself. Was it true what she said, or was it another trick? Arya had moved back to join her sister, her grey eyes studying him like an animal for slaughter. Looking between them Gawan decided to give up the pretense. They'd seen what happened with the imp and judged him guilty. The time for games was over.

A smirk spread across his face as he eyed them "Where's lord Tyrion?"

Sansa's eyes narrowed at his words. She stepped forward, lifting a piece of iron with a curved end for him to see "This is yours. Don't bother denying it – I can see the excitement in your eyes. It's the same look you had when you branded Tyrion with it"

Somewhere in the distance Gawan's mind registered the strange words, but he was passed the point of caring. Excitement rushed through him that he could finally take credit for his work. Playing the part of dutiful son had been so painful; particularly denying what he'd done. Seeing his pet looking like a little lord again had been the tipping point.

"The mark suits him doesn't it?" said Gawan, his mouth curling upwards "I designed it myself"

The Queen ignored him, tracing her fingers over the pattern on the end "I brought this down here to use on you. So you'd suffer as Tyrion did"

A flicker of nerves stirred in Gawan's stomach, but he quickly pushed it aside. This was all talk; the wolves had come down here to intimidate him but it wouldn't work.

"The imp kept begging me not to" taunted Gawan "pathetic little creature"

"I'm not going to use this on you" she decided, setting the hot iron down "You made sure Tyrion would bear that mark forever, and you wanted him to be ashamed of it. That won't happen. I'll make sure he bears it with pride - the price he paid to save innocent women from slavery. You wanted it to be a mark of ownership, but I'll make sure it's his badge of courage instead"

"A piece of shit like this shouldn't have the same mark as my brother" agreed Arya "I have plenty of tools for new ones"

"Good" said Sansa "Where should we start?"

"Your choice, but I'd start easy" said Arya, drawing a knife from her belt "he's only weak and we want this to last as long as possible"

Gawan lurched forwards making his chains rattle "Weak? You'd call me weak after you married the twisted little freak?"

"You are weak" said Sansa, her blue eyes as cold as winter "and when we've finished you'll be nothing"

"You should have seen your dwarf – begging and crying for mercy. He squealed like a pig when I branded him"

"No, he didn't" said Sansa, with an unnatural certainty "but you will"

Gawan grinned, a laugh escaping him "You won't do anything to me. This is all an act - you need my father's support"

"He disowned you and signed the order for your execution" snorted Arya "he doesn't even want your bones back"

"I might let Tyrion's direwolf have a couple of bones" mused Sansa "I think he wanted a piece of you"

His gut twisted unpleasantly at their words. That couldn't be true, could it? Gawan shook his head. What did it matter - he didn't need his father. The man was an old fool. The wolves wouldn't kill him; he was too valuable as a hostage. Robin would send a force to rescue him.

"You're wasting your time" said Gawan, a wild grin covering his face "I know you won't touch me. You're Starks - too honourable to do what needs to be done. That's all you and the old lords care about; duty and honour"

"I think I've heard enough for now" said Sansa, nodding to her sister "begin when you're ready"

Arya moved forwards, lifting her knife to cut away his tunic.

"You won't do it" he said, shaking his head in denial as the cold air brushed against his skin "You're a Stark"

Sansa stepped forwards, her icy blue eyes piercing into him without a trace of warmth.

"I'll always be a Stark" she said "but I'm a Lannister by marriage - and a Lannister always pays their debts"