DISCLAIMER: I DO NOT OWN ANYTHING ONLY THIS FANFICTION EVERYTHING OTHER THEN THE SEPTA IS THE PROPERTY OF GEORGE R. MARTIN.
A/n: Wow I really love the responses people made to the last chapter and how it effects everyone. Someone once commented on my reviews about the similarities between the techniques used by the Maester and modern medicine used in Bran's operation. Well I was using my father's own back surgery as a reference. My dad got into an accident at work when I was just a kid and luckily he worked at a hospital at the time. So for them to help him get the help he needs for free that is awesome. And I get to play some youtube videos on back surgery as also a good reference. Since only the Septa of Ice knows of the ancient cultures of the known world I get to play with them for a bit.
Anyhow this one is in reference to one of my fav animated movies and as always please leave a review at the end and no BASHINGS, LORE MONGERS OR FLAMES PLEASE!
THE WARRIORS OF WINTERFELL
Chapter 9: The Wolf Riders of Winterfell
"Iā vōljes flies hen Jelmor
naejot se embar
iā zaldrīzes whispers zirȳla brōzi
isse se ñāqa"
Iā iōrves Dēmalion Āegenko
holds iā valītsos daor mazverdagon
iā pāletilla laced isse pirtra
ao ērinagon iā ao morghūljagon
se watcher umbagon
va se jelmōñe dōros
iā tala
iderēbagon bē iā vīlībāzmio's egros
iā iōrves Dēmalion Āegenko
holds iā valītsos barely mazverdagon
iā pāletilla laced isse pirtra
ao ērinagon iā ao morghūljagon
iā lēkia
bound naejot iā jorrāelagon istis ruaragon
se hāedykta's
grēze korziō iksis puñila isse se mind
iā iōrves Dēmalion Āegenko
holds iā valītsos barely mazverdagon
iā pāletilla laced isse pirtra
ao ērinagon iā ao morghūljagon
The voice who sang that song to the boy who slept in the furs sang with such a fine voice that Catelyn and the Princess were in tears.
The Septa was there with her rather strong soprano voice as she sang in High Valyrian. From her time here Catelyn had learned how to understand all forms of Valyrian fluently as her frequent conversations with Essosian traders had to prove. But this song was different as if it was not originally written in Valyrian. She even recognized some of the words from other forms of the language and from different regions. Her study of linquistics here in Winterfell taught her that.
"That was beautiful Septa!" said Princess Myrcella as she entered with Catelyn and some food.
"The Maester said it might take a few days for Bran to wake, but it will take him months to a year before he can fully train again," Catelyn said.
"I know, he was in here not too long ago to check on Bran's progress." the Septa said.
"Has Ser Rodrick been in here?" Catelyn said to her.
"Yes, as well as all of Bran's classmates and friends and Lord Tyrion. He felt as if it was his responsibility that Bran is this way." the Septa said to her.
"Bran is this way because of me. I feel responsible," Myrcella said to her.
"No you are not child. Bran made his choice when he climbed that tower, and he was foolish enough to get caught. I know what type of woman your mother is and I am not afraid to say it." the Septa said it to her and the Princess nodded her tears in her eyes as she said it, "I know, but I can't help what I feel. Bran is the first true friend I had made since leaving the Red Keep. Everyone I know is only my friend because of my status save for Arianne when she visits me from Sunspear."
"Princess why don't you sit down for a minute while I put the food to the side. I have to attend to Rickon and make sure he goes to bed then I will be back," she said and the Princess nodded to her.
When she left it was just the Septa and her.
"You are not really a Septa are you?" Myrcella said boldly.
"No I am not, Lady Catelyn's men only gave me that title as a means to a jest. I am actually not a worshiper of the Seven," she said to her.
"Oh then what were you called before that?" Myrcella said as she placed the rag on Bran's head.
"Shifu or Sensei," she said.
"Oh what does that mean I don't recognize the language," Myrcella said.
"It is a dialect of eastern Essos beyond the mountains of Morn. It is an ancient language one that was lost through time. But the First Men remembered the names and brought it with them when they first came to Westeros in the time of Stone," she said.
"Oh and what does it mean?" Myrcella asked.
"Both mean Teacher. I am first and foremost a teacher to the girls here on how to properly be ladies," the Septa replied.
"But I saw Lady Arya climb and she does not act much like a lady. Is Sansa like her or is she more like her mother?" the Princess asked.
"Sansa and Dany the other girl who went with her are more like her mother. Though Sansa is only ten and three years of age she is a skilled warrior and a lady of Winterfell. The only reason she is able to travel on her own is because in the North the coming of age for girls is different then the south." she said.
"When is a girl considered grown? In the south or at least in King's Landing a girl is considered grown when she has flowered?" Myrcella asked.
"A girl is considered grown when she starts to blossom. Meaning when she starts to show signs that she is turning into a woman. That means she is of age to start her journey around the North and go from keep to keep till she finds a man she thinks can rule wisely beside her. The only reason why Lord Rickon Stark made Ned Stark marry Catelyn Tully was to form an alliance with the Riverlands. So they had to use the more southern traditions to wed." the Septa replied.
"Won't Sansa have to wed by the time she is fully grown?" asked Myrcella
"No, she has to prove to her father and to me that she is fully capable to running a keep before a husband is chosen. That way when she has returned on her sixteenth nameday or later depending on her journey she will be able to fully understand what is at stake." The Septa said.
"But she is only one and three namedays!" Myrcella said.
"She is of age princess. Lord Robb was only one and six name days because he is a lord's son when he left, but Sansa is one and three and is protected by her half brother and wards," the Septa replied.
"I wish I could be like her then," the Princess replied.
"Oh?" asked the Septa.
"You said she was a warrior. Does that mean she trains with a sword as well? I wish to learn it, but mother said a lady is not allowed to wield a weapon. She must be poised and bring her husband many sons and daughters to keep the family name and continue their legacy," Myrcella said with some disdain.
"You truly are a Baratheon! They are known for their warriors and if you want I can introduce you to the warrior women of Bear Island. They are formidable warriors and every woman has to train to protect their home from Ironborn raiders or pirates." The Septa said to her.
Myrcella's eyes lit up at the mention of warrior women and the education they get.
Beside her Tommen who was dozing off next to Bran's bed also rose at the sound of it. "Really women who are warriors? I want to see it too?" he said.
"Now, now I know for a fact the King and Queen will not like the fact that I had instilled in their children's minds of warriors and warrior women." said the Septa smiling.
"But Septa I want to learn more father always neglects us, but Uncle Stannis and Uncle Renly always told us stories!" Tommen said.
"Oh and what sort of stories are those?" the Septa replied.
Before they could go any further there was a knock on the door. Getting up she went to answer. There at the door was a servant girl with a tray for both her and the royals.
"Lady Catelyn said that you would be up here and insisted that you all eat something. The Queen wanted the Prince and Princess to dine with her and the rest of the Royal family." the Servant said.
Nodding Myrcella accepted the food, "Tell my mother that we will join her after our meal," with that the Servant left.
"You should not have neglected her that way," the Septa said to her.
"She had stopped being my mother the day I found out the truth about her and 'Uncle' Jaime," Myrcella replied.
"In your mind she stopped being your mother, but in your heart she will always be your mother. You can't change that child. Cersei Lannister has her faults, but there is one thing I notice quite well being a former mother myself. Her love for her children is fierce and she would do anything to protect you," the Septa replied.
Myrcella looked down in what appears to be utter shame for she knew that the Septa was right. Her mother may have neglected her and Tommen, but Cersei was still her mother. But she also knew how cruel her mother can be and she saw it in Joffrey. Her spoiled bastard brother was nothing more then a psychopath and killing Tommen's cats was proof. But what was she going to do about it?
"I'm sure father has many bastards of his own all in King's Landing and the Vale. From what Mother told me once he has quite a bit. I think when I go back I want to find my half siblings and learn all I can about them. Maybe make them servants of the castle that way they can have a better life," Myrcella said.
"And what if the life they have now is the one they want?" the Septa asked.
"Then I will except that as Princess of the Seven Kingdoms," Myrcella replied.
"Good remember that for it can be your greatest ally," the Septa replied.
It was sometime later that a servant came to collect Myrcella and Tommen and they left to return to their chambers.
LATER THAT EVENING
Catelyn sat there stitching some clothes while sitting next to Bran. The maester came to check up on him and found that Bran should be waking in a few days. The medicine that the maester mixed in his drink kept him sleeping which allows his back and head to heal. She had made a ringlet with the seven on each corner of the ring. It was a thing that mothers do for their children in the south. It was part of their religion as worshipers of the Seven.
Even though here in the North such things were not part of Northern tradition. But still she did so for her sake as well as for Myrcella's when she was here.
Now however late into the night she stitched some clothes. Most of it was repairing clothes that were torn by her children during the day. The particular one she was stitching belonged to Rickon because the little wolf is unable to keep himself out of trouble. He managed to trip three guards and barrel his way through several of the King's men before being stopped by Ser Rodrick and put back in his lessons.
Lord Tyrion was not his teacher that day seeing as he was attending to Library duties as well as dealing with his sister. But that did not stop the little wolf from trying.
And since then he has torn his breeches and left some impressive holes.
Bran remained resting as the drought given to him by the Maester made sure of it. She remembers reading up on spinal injuries and remembered how it was said that during recovery one must not move for so long. It would destroy all the hard work that was done on the spine and leave a person permanently crippled.
At least Bran would be able to walk again.
It was then that the door opened and Robb entered the room. His eyes landed Bran and his smile was sad as he sat down.
"How's Rickon Robb?" Catelyn asked her eldest son.
"He is sleeping for now, but he kept asking for you," he said.
"I will seen him later when Lord Tyrion comes to relieve me," she said.
"That is good to hear, So whose shirt are you repairing now?" he asked.
"It's Arya's she had torn it during training and the seem needed some stitching. Plus it helps me pass the time," Catelyn said.
"I thought you would be reading about Spinal Injuries again," Robb replied as he sat down.
"No, I wish it was the case but….its difficult looking at him like this," Robb said.
"The Maester said he was to be unconscious for a few more days, and then he can start the process of awakening him." Robb replied to his mother.
Catelyn stared at her son sleeping silently on the bed. His slow breaths coming and going each rise and fall of his chest. Summer, his direwolf slept soundly next to his bed. Greywind Robb's wolf was near the fire next to his master who was staring into the flames.
"Robb dear? Are you alright?" Catelyn asked her eldest son.
"I am worried mother," he replied.
"I know you are, we are too, even the princess and the young prince are worried." Catelyn said.
"They could send assassins to us," Robb said.
"They wouldn't dare! Not with the king still here," Catelyn said.
"I don't doubt they will wait and I will have people watching." Robb said.
"When is the King supposed to leave?" Catelyn asked.
"They leave on the morrow. The King has felt that he had intruded on us long enough and has helped in restoring Winterfell's stores to their full capacity again. Not like we truly needed it but still the gesture is there," Robb replied.
Catelyn is well aware of the hidden stores underneath Winterfell. Just like the library the stores are underground where the cold from up above is used to keep the food fresh and ready for the long winter or times of starvation.
"You must forgive the King if he felt the need to aid his host Robb. A Good King must remember to give back what he took from his host. So if the King felt that he had intruded on us long enough then he has intruded on us long enough." Catelyn replied.
"Oh speaking of which I finished the gift I have for the King. That was the other reason why I am up here mother. I wanted to show you first to ask for your approval," Robb replied as he pulled out a scroll.
Catelyn gently took it and opened it up. Her eyes lit up at the image of Lyanna Stark in her prime. She was there with armor on and the face of the laughing tree was evident on her shield. It was a look of pride on his face and right beside her was Cersei Lannister the queen sitting on a throne of gold with a golden lion at her feet. The queen had her hand stroking the Lion's head as she looked at Lyanna with pride.
It was the image of Lyanna as she always wanted to be, a Southern Knight. The message was clear to her. Lyanna always wanted to be a knight not a queen. The image was basically of Lyanna bending the knee to Cersei as if she was a sworn knight. Cersei as queen had held her goblet which was laced with gold and jewels out to her. It was the image of a toast acknowledging the fact that Lyanna was dead.
It was enough to hopefully allow the king to leave well enough alone.
Robb felt proud that his mother approved his image as he planted a kiss on her cheek and went out the door. Greywind followed leaving Summer to guard Bran with Catelyn.
SOMETIME LATER
"Oh Robb it is beautiful I'm sure father would love it!" Myrcella said to him as she looked at Robb's painting.
"Well I made it myself. Father said that I had a talent for catching the eye," Robb said.
"Mother will love this as well!" she said.
"I'm sure the King would like to frame it and hang it in his chambers," said Myrcella.
Just as she said it the door opened and in walked in the King himself. He was dressed in his full attire.
It was time for them to leave.
"There you are Myrcella your mother was looking for you," the King said.
"I'm sorry father, Lord Stark here was just showing me a picture he painted for you and for mother," she said holding out the rolled painting.
The King took it from him and unrolled it. What he saw was shocking and he looked at the painting and then up at a blushing Robb.
"Boy did you paint this?" he said.
"Yes," Robb replied now clearly embarrassed.
The King had tears in his eyes as the looked at the image of both his lost intended and his queen.
"It is very good work, I had forgotten what she looked like. You were just a babe when she was killed," he said.
"Father described her for me down to the very detail. I wrote it down and then applied it to paint," Robb replied.
"I also have another one for the queen if you don't mind giving it to her," he said.
Just as he said it the Queen herself entered the room. She was also dressed for travel in a shorter dress then the ones she normally wears. This one was cut just above the ankles to allow her to walk in the mud.
The King held out the rolled parchment for her, "A gift for you from Lord Robb Stark," he said.
The Queen nodded to him graciously as she opened the parchment. When she saw the image her eyes looked shocked as she gazed at the image before her. The painting shown in all its glory and the image that came from it was astounding.
"Thank you," she all but choked.
"You're welcome My Queen," he said bowing.
The Queen then curtsied to him before walking down the now assembled line of Starks. The whole house hold had assembled to see the King off. As they were about to leave Joffrey spoke and his comment had all the Starks glaring at him.
"It's too bad Lady Sansa isn't here I bet she would be lovely in bed," he spoke with arrogance in his poise. The Queen winced and apologized to the Starks before glaring at her son.
The King however was more vocal, "Shut your mouth boy! You are not to say one more damn word about it. If you want to fuck so bad you can fuck a whore," the King shouted before leaping onto his horse. The horse itself was a large Destrier because it was the only horse that can carry the weight. The horse moved a bit before the King was satisfied and then he turned to Lord Stark.
"Well Ned I'm sorry I couldn't convince you to come down with me to King's Landing. It was at least not totally for nothing, I did get to say goodbye to Lyanna. I hope your boy gets well Ned and may you prosper in this shit hole." the King said with a smile.
"As do you, you fat bastard," Lord Stark shot back with a smile.
The King gave a bellowing laugh before he rode off out of the castle with his troop. As they past Ser. Jaime rode up to the Septa who was standing next to young Arya.
"Maybe if you ever come to King's Landing we can have a rematch," he said with a wink.
The Septa was unfazed, "I would gladly accept Ser. Jaime," she said and the man rode off with the rest of his troop.
The Starks then made their way to the wall of Winterfell to watch them leave. As they rode away Lord Stark himself gave a sigh of relief. "If I was any other man or in any other time frame I would have said yes."
"Any other world and you would be a fool husband and I would be a completely ignorant twit," Catelyn said to her husband.
Lord Stark could not help but crack a smile at the jest with his wife. Even Robb and Arya couldn't help but laugh at their parents antics.
"Well then shall we get back to business Lord Stark or do you want to wait?" Tyrion said to him.
"We shall wait for a full day then we go back to business. Personally I miss practicing. Now that they are away I can finally stretch my legs again. They are getting awfully cramped in these boots," he said.
The other Starks started to laugh leaving little Rickon confused at the words.
LATER THAT NIGHT
After the King left the children set to clean up the royal chambers. The Stark's take great pride in doing the cleaning themselves. As they cleaned the children's chambers both Tommen and Myrcella's chambers were very clean and tidy. The Queen's however was a bit messy with goblets around and large pitchers of wine. No one could blame her for hearing the King. Joffrey's chambers were full of holes that had to be patched and torn linens that had to be taken out every day of their visit.
However the King's chambers were a different story.
"Ah gross!" Arya grumbled as she held up another fur blanket with something slick and smelly on it. Robb who was beside her winced at the smell along with a few others.
"Throw it there please I can't stand the smell!" grumbled Jayne Poole.
Arya quickly threw it in the pile that was to be burned for the smell was horrendous.
"Awk! Who could stand the smell anyways!" she grumbled.
It was then that one of the girls screamed as she backed away. There amongst the piles of linens and furs were a very messy pile of blood and bones. An animal that was shot in the bedroom by a crossbow from the looks of it.
The smell was horrendous and many of the people in the room had to rush to the windows to open them. Others ran out to lose their lunch. Arya had to hold her stomach in before she followed the others.
From the looks of the carcass it was a dead bear cub tortured and killed for the King's entertainment.
"I will tell my father," said Arya as she went out of the room.
The others disposed of the body while she was doing so.
LORD STARK'S SOLAR
Lord Stark was busy working in the solar going over the finances of the realm. He had just returned from the fields when Arya came through the door.
"Arya dear what's the matter?" he asked.
"The King is a filthy pig! He killed a bear cub in the room and left the place stinking," she said to him.
Lord Stark rose from his seat, "Where?"
MEANWHILE
Robb was in the smithing shop with Micken working on a pair of swords that needed to be repaired. He went there after the rooms had been cleaned to give the old smith a hand. The King's men had done a number on them in the practice yard and the poor smith could use some help. So Robb decided to get a couple of the boys to help out as well.
As they pounded the metal back into shape and sharpening the blades conversations broke out.
"Hey Robb the King sure as hell messed up the place yah?" said one of the boys a bastard from Greywater Watch from what his patch told him.
"Aye, that he did look at that armor it need to be pounded out," Robb replied pointing to the armor that the boy was working on.
The armor sported several dents and the leather underneath was torn and shredded Robb felt a sense of disgust at having to host these people. The mess they left for the Starks to clean up was phenomenal. It was a good thing the only ones who left the room clean were the younger siblings. The others on the other hand were horrid and the King was the worst of the lot.
No wonder father often complains about his friend's lack of cleanliness. Robb thought as he finished hammering out another sword.
LATER THAT NIGHT
Arya was now in Bran's room her book was in her hand. She was catching up on her true studies as the month of absence left her behind along with Bran and the others. Robb is past graduation already but he was behind on his adult studies. So the Stark children had taken up studying in their rooms.
The door then opened revealing Old Nan the wet nurse that had taken care of them all when they were little. She walked in with a tray filled with food and something warm.
"I brought you dinner Lady Arya along with some spiced milk." She said as she laid the tray on the table beside Arya and allowed herself to sit. Bran's quiet breathing was heard through it all. The boy was once again administered his medicine for the pain. However Maester Luwin did not give him the drug that would allow him to sleep. Instead he said it was time for Bran to wake but it will take a few days for the drug to fully leave his system to allow him the time to do so.
Nymeria and Summer were already there beside Bran guarding him from any sort of harm. Arya began to take in the stew and bread that Old Nan left her. The woman then pulled out a couple of needles and started to knit with the balls of yarn below her.
"Do you want to hear a story young lady?" she asked.
"What sort of story?" she asked.
"What are you studying now?" asked Old Nan.
"I was studying for my history exam." Arya replied.
"Oh and what are you studying?" Old Nan asked.
"I was asked to find something in our history of interest and make a report on it. So far nothing," Arya said.
"Oh did you look hard enough?" asked Old Nan.
"Alright you got me what do you suggest?" Arya said as she put her book down.
"Well if you want this old woman's opinion I would suggest look into your own history. Perhaps ask the Septa if she knows anything." Old Nan said as she continued to work.
At this point Arya yawned and Nan put down her knitting kit, "Lady Arya perhaps it is time for bed. The hour grows late after all and you had a rough day. I will watch over Bran until he wakes." she said and Arya nodded before she and Nymeria left the room.
When she closed the door Old Nan sighed as she continued knitting much to Summer's annoyance.
DREAM SEQUENCE
She held on as her mount flew through the woods. Her hands held onto the soft fur of her steed as the forest was nothing but a blur. The smell of the earth filled her nose as she felt herself rise as her steed rose higher into the forests. When she reached the summit she could see the world below. The mountains stretched far into the distance with the snow covered peaks gracing the view.
She inhaled sharply as the cold mountain air filled her. Beside her she could see her brother joining her riding his own steed, a proud gray wolf. The wolf itself was like the wind while hers was more white and gray. A rustle in the woods and another this time her younger brother emerged from the forest on his tan and white wolf. And her youngest sibling with his black wolf steed.
She smiled as she saw them Nymeria howled to the wind followed by the howls of other wolves. She looked over the horizon and saw her sister Sansa with her cousin Jon and their wolves. Though Ghost looks more dragonlike in her dream. Both took off running towards them. Urging Nymeria on Arya raced towards them.
When she got there it was when she heard the sound of someone calling her name.
END OF DREAM
Arya woke with a start. Sweat poured from her head as she looked at the time. The air was still cold but the outside was still dark. Looking at the window she could just make out the first rays of light starting to peak over the horizon. Groaning she rose and started to get dressed for the day. Putting her hair up in a pony tail she rushed out of her room.
Just as she rushed out she met up with everyone in the Kitchens. The younger kids usually do the breakfast dishes before lessons.
"Morning Lady Arya!" said one of the girls.
"Morning," she said as she got to work on the dishes which were bagels, eggs, and toast with some jam, bread and meats. The drinks are usually some green tea that was imported in from the northern mountain regions. This was to give the people some energy.
Arya got to work on kneading the breads for the breakfast tray. Adding the ingredients in and mixing it up together before bringing it up to her nose to smell.
At least the yeast is still good she thought as she continued to mix them together.
When the mixture was ready she made out her shapes before putting them in the ovens to bake.
As she made her bread rolls her mind drifted towards the dream she had.
What was that about? She thought as she finished.
Breakfast came and went without a hitch. Then came time for studies. As she was sitting in class Tyrion lectured the class on the history of the First Men and how they crossed into Westeros from the other side.
"Now as you know the arm of Dorne is or was a land bridge that stretched from Westeros to Essos from….Lady Stark are you listening?" he asked noticing at last that Arya was not paying attention to anything he has to say.
"Um...sorry what?" she said.
"Lady Arya what did I just say?" Tyrion said to her.
When her mind became blank Lord Tyrion sighed, "See me after class young lady as for the rest of you time is up report to your Master of Arms for training," Tyrion said.
The students filed out making their way to the elevators that would take them to the top floor and out into the courtyards. Arya however stayed behind her face looking solemn.
"Now Lady Arya mind telling me what has gotten you so distracted?" he asked.
She looked down, "You would laugh if I told you so," she said.
"I would not laugh Lady Arya. If it is serious enough to distract you from your studies you must tell me," Tyrion said.
"I have been having this dream. The dreams are always the same I am riding Nymeria as if she were a horse and I come upon a mountain cliff. There I meet up with Robb, Rickon, Bran and even Sansa and Jon though Ghost looks more dragonlike then wolf," she said.
Tyrion thought about it and then a memory came to mind, "You know the Septa once told me a story about people who used to ride wolves. You might want to ask her about it sometime," he said.
"Really?" Arya asked her eyes lit up.
"Yes, we were having a conversation once about the history of the first men and she brought it up. You might want to ask her about it," Tyrion said.
Feeling a lot better now she quickly grabbed her books and rushed out, "Thanks Lord Tyrion," she said.
"No problem,"
MEANWHILE
Robb was having his turn watching Bran when the door opened. He looked up and saw his father standing there at the door.
"How is he?" he asked.
"He is still the same though his eyes are rapidly moving so that is a good sign," Robb said to him.
Lord Stark sat down on the other side of the bed and held Bran's hand.
"The Maester told me his latest checkup. Things are looking good that is for sure," Lord Stark said to Robb.
"I hope so father, Bran had one hell of a fall. If he were anywhere else he would have been crippled for life," Robb replied.
"I know, and I brought this," he said holding up the scroll. It had the seal of House Stark on it.
"What is it father?" Robb asked.
"It is a letter from Sansa saying that they are on their way to Deepwood Motte. The Greyjoys managed to return to give them a lift to shore. There she will make her way to Ironwrath and then to the Wall. To the Shadow Tower and to the Ice Dragon sanctuary," Lord Stark said.
"The Ice Dragon Sanctuary? In the Northern Grove?" Robb asked.
"Yes, remember we have two Targaryens with us they could use the education," he said.
"I understand father," Robb replied.
It was then that the door opened again and Arya appeared. Her eyes lit up at the sight of her father and brother conversing.
"Sorry, I will come back later," she said and went to close the door.
"No, it is alright Arya I was just on my way out," Lord Stark said as he walked out leaving Arya at the door. Nymeria always at her side moved out of the larger man's way. Greywind and Summer were already on the floor sleeping. Nymeria went to join them on the floor.
"So Robb why did you name Bran's wolf Summer?" Arya asked as she bit into an apple that was on the stand.
"Why not? I mean look at him he reminds me of the Summer's sun. That and Bran was taking his sweet time naming him," replied Robb as he sat down to finish reading his study guide.
Arya went to sit down her legs dangling from the chair as she herself opened her own book to read. Her mind was boggled as she tried to make sense of the words in the book. But the letters proved to be a blur and her mind kept going back to the dream.
"Something troubling you?" Robb asked.
"Yes," Arya said.
"You can tell me," Robb said.
Arya sighed she might as well tell him even if he was going to laugh it off.
"Alright, it was about a dream I had last night. You were in it as well as Bran, Sansa, Rickon and Jon. We were all in it and we were riding our direwolves. Though Ghost looks more like a dragon then a wolf. But we were all riding our wolves like they were horses though the forest and into the mountains. I thought it was odd yet cool at the same time." she said
"That is an interesting dream," Robb said.
"It sounds like someone was dreaming of the wolf riders," said a new voice.
Both Arya and Robb looked up to see the Septa there along with Old Nan. The older lady walked right when the Septa made herself confortable.
"Arya, Lord Tyrion told me you had some trouble with dreams is that right?" she said.
Arya looked down, "I'm sorry that I caused a distraction with my training."
"What does these dreams have to do with these 'Wolf Riders'?" Robb asked.
The Septa smiled as she pulled a chair from the side, "A lot of things." she said.
Robb quickly poured a glass of water for her, Arya and himself before sitting down. The Septa looked outside the window at the torches that lit the castle and the moonless night. Then looking down at the three sleeping direwolves and then at the humans who claimed them.
"The wolf riders are a group of people from the time of the First Men who ride on direwolves. They were both Wargs and riders. But unlike a normal Warg that uses his powers to control the mind of the direwolf the Wolf Rider is part of them. So much so that they can speak to their wolves using their thoughts, and the wolf answers back." The Septa said as she took a bite out of some bread.
"So Arya's dream about us riding our direwolves?" Robb asked.
"Is a sign that the Wolf Riders are returning," she said.
THE NEXT DAY
Arya was scouring the library looking for anything about the wolf riders. She searched the myth section from top to bottom. It was not till she gotten to the very oldest books in the mythology section that she finally found the story of the Wolf Riders. She was surprised by the sheer thickness of the book. But the glass wolf's eye and the sigil on the book was enough to convince her.
Tales of the Wolf Riders was the cover of the book.
She slowly opened her book and read the first part of the chapter, The Wolf Riders were those who rode on the backs of dire wolves. Having a bond that can only be compared to those of the dragon riders of Valyria. These people formed a lasting bond with their wolves. So much so that they can sense where the wolf is at all times. They share dreams with their wolves from the moment they are bonded. This book details how the bonds are made to how the wolf riders came to be. And how they fell.
Arya spent a good portion of her afternoon in the library working on her studies. She managed to finish her report for her lessons by the time dinner came around. It was with the sounds of a small breeze that she knew that someone was in the room.
"I am surprised you took the stories so seriously Arya." The Septa said as she came up to her.
"I needed a subject for my lessons so I found this," Arya said and showed her the book.
"Well the library is closing and you can ask Lord Tyrion if you could take that book with you," she said raising her eyebrow.
"It is that late! Oh man I missed…..I'm so sorry Septa I will accept any punishment you give me!" she said.
"You are not being punished I understand the need for yours studies. Now go on and get dinner and then resume your watch over your brother," The Septa said.
Arya rushed out of the library not noticing Lord Tyrion as he entered, "You know she has been here all day reading that book and writing her report," he said.
"Give her credit at least she is trying," The Septa replied.
"True, the girl was enthused when you told her about the wolf riders," Tyrion said as they both exited the library to make their way towards the main hall.
LATER THAT NIGHT
Arya sat in her room with her book in hand as she opened it to reveal the page she was on.
Tale of San and Ashitaka
Ashitaka was a warrior of the Vale who had to travel west due to a curse he received from a demon. There he met San a wolf rider from the Westerlands who was in a war with a group of people that were destroying the forests there. The war was tragic and they both watched the leader of the city kill a god and took its head. Hoping to give it to her king as a prize. That only led to the land being placed in tragedy and death. It was only with the combined efforts of both warriors that the head was restored. This story is amazing! Arya thought.
Her mind was reading the entire tale as she read others of wolf riders throughout history. From the Famous tribe of wolf riders whom were among the children to this tale of San and Ashitaka. Arya was enchanted with the stories. It was well into the night when she finally felt her eyes droop. As she put the book down and blew out the candle her dreams were once again filled with people riding wolves.
LORD STARK'S SOLAR THE NEXT AFTERNOON
"We have received even more reports from the tribes to the farthest north that the White Walkers are on the move," said a man dressed in animal skins. He was one of the Free Folk scouts that had spent generations keeping an eye on the White Walkers.
Lord Stark was busy checking the latest reports, "They are moving rapidly then and they already crossed the mountain pass from where we last spotted them," he said.
Right beside him Robb was looking just as worried, "Isn't Sansa supposed to head towards the Ice Dragon Sanctuary soon father?" he asked.
"Aye she is and won't be there for sometime," Lord Stark said to his son.
"Oh," was the reply from Robb.
"Now then what is this I've been hearing that Arya is not obsessed with legends?" asked Lord Stark.
"It's her dreams father. She has been dreaming or riding Nymeria for sometime and seeing me on Greywind and so froth," Robb replied.
"It is the bond Lord Stark. The legend of the wolf riders is those of a bond like those of Valyria with dragons. A wolf pup is chosen to be with a rider of the blood of winter. The bond is forming and I wouldn't be surprised if your other children also share the same bond," the voice of old Nan said to him.
"The wolf riders? The old stories about the men and women who rode direwolves to protect us?" he said.
"Aye the chose warriors from what I understand the Septa should know a thing or two about them." Old Nan said to him.
"Very well," Lord Stark said.
"Direwolves south of the wall? I've heard you had some but I thought those are rumors," said the Free Folk man.
"No, we found the mother dead alongside a bridge. She had six pups with her five for my children and one to Prince Jon Targaryen who is of Stark Blood." Lord Stark replied.
"I shall inform the chiefs at once and to see if there are any other Free Folk who have direwolves in their midst." he said.
"Alright you take care now and have a safe journey back," Lord Stark replied.
"I will," the man said and hurried out.
"Robb, you said Arya had dreams yes?" Lord Stark said.
"Aye, father she had and she dreamed of all of us," Robb replied.
"Summon the Septa now!" he said.
LATER THAT NIGHT
Thrusting her fists into the air Arya practiced her moves with fluid ease. She used this moment of silence in the room to go over the latest maneuvers that she had learned in her fighting lessons today. Learning to flair her arms out before striking was harder then it looks and she wanted to make it look right. She was concentrating so much that she was easily startled when the door opened and the Septa entered.
Remembering her manners she shot up straight and bowed.
"Ah I now see why you didn't take a bath with the others," she said as she sat down.
"What can I do for you Septa?" she asked.
"I came to ask you about your dreams...and your obsession with the Wolf Riders," she said and Arya realized that she noticed the book on the table.
"I can't help it I dream about it every night and I think the others might dream it too. But they don't know it yet," she said.
"That is because you are most attuned to it. Women are more attuned to their environment and to magic then men are. Our senses are sharper then theirs and our minds and wits are sharper as well. I am not surprised that you are dreaming such dreams." The Septa replied.
"Is it a bad thing?" asked Arya.
"What does the book tell you?" the Septa asked.
"It says nothing, it only tells stories about them and that there are good and bad ones," she replied.
"Precisely, I should know I used to be one," the Septa said.
"Really?" asked Arya.
"That is why I asked I wanted to see you and to teach you how to be one when Nymeria is older," she said noticing the size of the wolf.
"When will she be ready to ride?" Arya asked.
"In a few months she should be ready to start training to have a rider. I still have my old weights for training wolves in my chambers. Right now she is still a pup and has much growing to do. When she is of the right size to start her training we can start then," she said.
"Wow, I thought you would laugh at it like it was a joke?" Arya asked.
"No, I am not joking and I sent a raven to Ironwrath and the Ice Dragon Sanctuary to inform them that your sister and cousin needs training as well," the Septa replied.
"So, I am a wolf rider," she said.
The Septa smiled, "It has been nearly eight thousand years since the last wolf rider had come to this land. With the rise of the dead I fear the time has come again for them to ride," she said.
"Will we be ready?" she asked.
"I don't know Arya, I don't know,"
DREAM SEQUENCE
He could feel the fur underneath him as he held on. His direwolf Summer raced through the forest with him on his back. Robb had named him for the wolf's fur reminded him of the summer's sun. But he was determined to show them all that he was the best. Dressed in armor with his bow in his hand he held on as the wolf ran faster. He could feel Summer's joy as the trees flew past him. Alongside him he could see Shaggy Dog and Rickon on the wolf's back. Both boys dressed in furs like those of the Free Folk and playing in the woods.
The moon was bright behind them until a howl was heard and they saw their sister Arya on top of Nymeria. The wolf's white belly and face shown in the light of the full moon. Beside them another form caught up and they looked to see Grey Wind. The wolf easily passed them with a laughing Robb. They eventually reached the top of the mountain where Arya waited for them.
Then from the forest came Jon and Sansa together as they raced to the top. When they got there they all howled their ancient song to the moon. He had never felt so happy or so free in his life….if only….
For the first time in what felt like years Brandon Stark awoke from his deep slumber….
TBC
A/N: how do you like that for a chapter?
I had been busy with updating my other stories as well as real life situations so it was tough. But I managed to get this done and now here I am writing another chapter of Warriors of Winterfell.
So how do you like this so far. The idea for this came from the movie Princess Mononoke and from my old Elf Comics about the Wolf Riders. It was something and I wanted to show you what I did so far.
Now however we break away from Winterfell and go back to where Sansa and her group are. That is where I will cover the next chapter until then….see ya latas…. And remember no FLAMES, LORE MONGERS OR BASHERS THANKS