Chapter 29

Walking the grounds with Lord Walder Frey was a tense situation indeed. Lady Joyeuse walked directly behind them as Nysa was urged to take Lord Frey's arm. She had insisted that the Lord and Lady should walk together and that she would walk behind them, instead Lord Frey had said that wasn't to be so. Slowly, Nysa was learning that things were a give and take with him. One moment she could flatter her way out of anything, another moment, she was being shut down.

"Am I correct in hearing there is another delay in the weddings," Lord Frey questioned.

Nysa had written to House Manderly to send some of her dresses down. She shared those gowns with Marissa first. After all, Marissa was going North. She would be in need of warm dresses. Not to mention, she'd be in desperate need of a wedding dress as well. And Nysa knew that Wynafryd had just the dress in mind. It was something Nysa had received from her Lord Uncle three name-days before. It was too soft and pretty to be in the North. Marissa could use it for her wedding. And with her dark blonde hair - the deep pink with white designs would be lovely for her. She was currently in there with some of the Frey girls, pouring gleefully over the gowns - especially the wedding gown.

The weddings weren't going to be rushed, at least that's what Nysa had requested. In a way, she knew that Robb was not happy - he had written her so. The Lords had agreed with him. And if Robb had his way, he would have marched there immediately - damn the wedding dress, he had wrote her. But Nysa had insisted that certain things would happen for this wedding to take place. She wanted the brides to feel important, special. So, she wrote to the respective people - House Manderly being one of them - and solicited help in preparing the gowns, the wine, the food - everything.

"Yes, my Lord," Nysa answered. "I want everything to be perfect for your daughters, your grandchildren and of course, my brother."

"Unfortunately, for you my Queen, that means you have delayed your departure," he chuckled.

"It means that I get to keep company with your delightful daughters and granddaughters." Lord Frey snorted. "I'm finding that I quite enjoy myself spending time with your kin and your household," Nysa smiled and patted his arm.

Lord Frey muttered something that she didn't quite catch but it caused Lady Joyeuse to giggle so it must have been something positive. She regarded the gardens and touched a few of the flowers that were there. The Lady had certainly changed a lot, Nysa had not only taken notice, but heard about it from others in the Twins. As if noticing that Nysa's attention was no longer on him, Lord Frey spoke up.

"I do not like you giving my daughters false hope. It is one thing to charm me, it's quite another to break my their hearts," Lord Frey commented.

"How am I giving them false hope, my Lord?"

"My Queen, we can stop with the theatrics," he paused in their walk and gestured for them to sit at a nearby bench. Nysa helped him to sit down first before she smoothed out her gown and took the seat next to him. "You paint these lovely pictures for them, as though they will have these loving husbands and beautiful homes."

"Riverrun and Seagard are beautiful castles. And Greenhall - though it is an abandoned castle - has a delightful village outlying it. It is not far from Winterfell," Nysa remarked. "It has wonderful fields and great potential."

"And you know this, how?"

Nysa smiled at Lord Frey. "Because it was to be mine," she answered. "There are several small castles in the North, smaller than Twins of course. But they have their own unique charm. Lord Stark was planning to bestow Greenhall upon me as a wedding gift. I was betrothed to one of Lord Karstark's sons."

Lord Frey remained quiet for a while as he watched the smile on the young Queen's face disappear. "Where is he?"

"He died at the hands of the Kingslayer."

A grunt left Lord Frey's lips before he began to cough. Nysa patted his back lightly as Lady Joyeuse came by with a cloth to assist. "And so you wed the King," he cleared his throat and gestured for a servant to bring him some water.

"Yes," Nysa sighed, "and now I am here, hoping to make amends for our actions, for my actions. I do apologize, Lord Frey, to you and your daughters. It was a dishonorable thing to have done."

"We all make mistakes," Lord Frey said before turning away from the young Queen. "Let us hope that it should never cost you."

A strange feeling came over Nysa then at Lord Frey's statement but she brushed it off. Something was stirring inside of her - and it wasn't the child she carried in her womb. It was like the fire - the gift she had - was being stoked and fueled. She didn't like it. And every time she experienced a strange emotion, that fire started to burn. She calmed herself the best she could.

"Despite being wed to a King, our wedding was far from grand," Nysa tried to get the conversation back on track. "I want your daughters to have something wonderful, something to rival a wedding at Kings Landing."

"The gowns that you have imported are good enough," he waved his hand.

"I am also asking that they send some wine and pork and other delicacies."

"And where is this coming from," Lord Frey lifted an eyebrow at her.

Nysa smiled. "My Lord Uncle."

"I thought that your Uncle was murdered by the Ironborn?"

She nodded solemnly before shifting to look out at the garden. "My father's brother, yes. But the Uncle I speak of is my mother's brother."

"I had heard that your mother is from the South," he narrowed his eyes pointedly at her.

"She is, my Lord."

"And you've never met your Lord Uncle?"

Nysa shook her head.

"How do you know that he'll aid you in this endeavor?"

"I'm not certain, to be honest. I'm hoping that he will. My brother - and others from the North - believe that my mother is the only kin he had left before she died. And since he has no other family to inherit, he enjoys doting on his only living relation," Nysa replied the best that she could. "Anything beyond that, I couldn't tell you."

"Gracious of your Uncle to assist you," Lord Frey noted. "But we did not need wine or pork or beef. We have plenty of it here."

"I know you do, but I did not want you to empty your storehouses, Lord Frey," Nysa turned back towards him and smiled. "Consider this our way of making amends," she nodded. "Truly, I am deeply mortified that we have dishonored you and your House. Let me plan this for your daughters and your grandchildren. You shouldn't have to worry about a thing."

Lord Frey thought about it for a moment before he nodded.

"As for filling them with false hope, I apologize if I am approaching the matter as that," Nysa continued. "I only want to show them that they are valued. As mentioned before, I enjoy spending time with them. I meant no harm. I merely want to show them that they are important - not just for creating alliances, but they are important to me, as their Queen."

Lord Frey went to stand and Nysa did the same. "I'll have my wife escort me back, my Queen. Thank you for your time."

"Of course, my Lord," Nysa curtsied and watched as the Lord and Lady of the Crossing departed. She truly hoped that Lord Frey would see that she wanted to make things right, wanted to make his daughters happy. She attempted not to dwell on the matter once more as she glanced down at her hands and felt them burning.

"What is that, Lady Stark," Jory gestured to the parchment.

"A letter to Prince Doran," she replied as rolled it up. "Nysa is requesting some wine and gold for the weddings that are taking place."

"Has she been told yet?"

"About her kin," Lady Catelyn looked up at him, "or about who she is?"

"Either one," Jory answered.

"I haven't told her, yet. I want to wait until we get back home, that way we can discuss things with Jon, also."

"You know who his mother is," he pointed out.

Catelyn looked Jory over. "I do," she nodded.

Jory had been sorely tempted on two occasions to inform Robb Stark that his wife was a Targaryen Princess. He knew that Nysa would certainly be angry with him when she discovered that he had found out and neglected to inform her of her kin.

"It will take some time to send the wine and gold to the Twins," Jory noted, going back to the previous topic of conversation.

"Aye, it would," she smiled. "Robb is not too pleased with postponing the wedding date."

"I do not particularly like it, either," Jory confessed. "However, knowing her, she probably feels that if she makes this wedding something magnificent that it would earn Lord Frey's forgiveness. And if that be the case, she would insist that they wait for those commodities before engaging in a wedding," Jory stated.

He could picture her now, standing in the middle of the hall demanding that Lord Frey insist upon creating a grand spectacle - no doubt that was something she would flatter him with. For the past moon he had been wondering how she had managed to tempt Lord Frey into this arrangement. Wyl and Cayn had laughed at him before responding, stating that she probably used the same tactic she used on him and Ser Rodrik - compliments and an innocent smile, perhaps a little pouting as well.

"Do you think he'll listen to her, Jory," Lady Catelyn asked.

"I've seen her talk her way out of many things, my Lady," Jory replied with a smile. "Waylyn was telling a story of when she went on a hunting trip with Eddard and Harrion Karstark - dressed as a boy. When she returned, Lady Karstark waited on the steps for her - upset and beside herself," he added. "Nysa claimed that the boys dragged her along with them. She got out of it," he chuckled as Lady Catelyn shook her head, "but the Karstark boys got punished."

"That girl," Lady Catelyn smiled before turning to Jory with a serious expression. "Are you sure, Jory? Are you certain about wedding a Frey?"

Jory thought about it for a small moment and then nodded. "I am. I know that Nysa wouldn't reserve the prettiest face for me. But she would look for someone suitable." Lady Catelyn hid a smile. "I know what they say about Lord Frey's daughters. I've heard the tales," he gestured towards the outside of Lady Catelyn's room. "But I know Nysa. She wouldn't have made the choice half-hearted. We've spoke about marriage - more than once. And though I've told her to seek love and respect from a man she desires to wed and that I would look for the same in a Lady, I understand how much she and the King need House Frey. Love may not come but I know that respect most certainly would," he finished, "because I have faith that she chose well for me."

Two of Lady Arwyn's younger brothers were going with her to Seagard. She had received permission from her betrothed in the last letter.

The first time Arwyn had received a letter, along with it came a small chest of gifts - shells, a bottle of sand and sea water, along with a necklace with Seagard's sigil - from Ser Patrek the day before. It had sent the ladies in commotion and excitement all over again. Arwyn had been ecstatic for the remainder of the day. She had asked Nysa if it would be proper to write back to her betrothed. Nysa said that he would most certainly expect it.

"Remember, strong mind," she pointed to Arwyn's temple as the two smiled. Arwyn had wrote two letters - one with requests for her two brothers to come, serve as squires to Ser Patrek, something that Lord Mallister would see. And the second letter was for Ser Patrek's eyes only - written as Arwyn blushed profusely.

Ser Patrek would certainly have his hands full with her.

Jeyne looked warily out of the window as her Uncle left her room. Her brother remained and waited until the door had closed behind them. She had failed to seduce the King. And because of her failed attempt, her mother had demanded that they return. Raynald had suggested against it - said that to ensure father's safety they would accept the betrothal to House Frey.

"It is the least we could do to pacify the Queen," Raynald said as their Uncle - their mother's brother - fumed.

"That bastard Queen doesn't deserve anything but a proper lashing! She would sell you, a high-born Lady," their Uncle pointed at her, "like you were some piece of cattle?"

"And you all would do the same," Raynald threw down their mother's letter. "It was mother's idea to use Jeyne as a pawn - whoring my sister out like she was some common brothel wench!"

The argument had gone back and forth for some time and Jeyne was certain that the guards outside had heard. She silently pushed away her tears and asked that her Uncle leave them.

"I'm tired," Jeyne admitted once she was sure the company consisted of her and Raynald. "I'm tired of being treated as though I have no say in the matter."

"If you wished to go home..."

She turned around to face her brother. "And have mother push me onto the Lannisters," she scoffed. "Father already tried that, Raynald," she shook her head and looked away. "And before that it was House Prester and House Sarsfield. Mother's schemes have gotten us nowhere. Another man - who doesn't want me."

"Sister," Raynald stepped forward as Jeyne's shoulders dropped and her eyes brimmed with tears.

"I did try," her bottom lip trembled. "I did."

"I know," he said as he wrapped his arms around her, pulling her to an embrace.

"She could have betrothed me to one of the older Freys - one who already had a wife," Jeyne sobbed. "She could have betrothed me to a little boy just to spite me! This is the price I am paying for attempting to seduce the Queen's husband. She would see me wed to some fat drunkard who mistreats his wife. She could have. I just know it! What do I do, Raynald? What do I do?"

"Sh," he patted his sister's head comfortingly. "You can always say 'no'. We haven't ridden for the Twins, yet."

Jeyne shook her head against her brother's chest. "No, Raynald. Don't you see that I have to?" She pushed back lightly and looked up at her brother. "I have to."

Nysa woke suddenly to the soft banging on her door. She hurried to grab her brother's dagger - wondering who it would be at her door in the dead of the night.

"My Queen! My Queen!"

"Queen," another squeal sounded.

She pulled the door open to see little Walda Frey and her sister Emberlei - scared expressions on their faces as they stared up at her. A sudden look of relief at seeing that the Queen was in one piece - both little girls flung themselves to her, Walda's arms reached for Nysa's waist, tightening around her. Emberlei's hands clung to Nysa's gown around her legs.

"What is going on, my little ladies," Nysa patted Walda on the head, ushering her to take a step back before she knelt to face the two concerned faces.

"Father said that there was a monster outside the Twins," Walda screamed in a panicked voice.

"Monster," Emberlei copied her sister, head little head bobbing up and down.

"There is no need to fear something outside of the Twins," Nysa embraced them both. "Your father and the rest of the guards here will protect you. They won't let anything get through the gates."

Walda shook her head and pushed back. "He said that they were going to feed you to it," she protested.

So, that's what this was about. Nysa looked up to see Lothar Frey along with a few others - Ser Aenys, Ser Whalen and Black Walder included - walking down the hall towards her. The two girls gripped onto her dress harder. For a moment, fear flickered through her chest. Were they really going to throw her out of the Twins? She thought the arrangements she made with their father would tamper down any feelings of resentment.

"I hear there is a monstrous creature outside," Nysa attempted to smile.

"There is," Black Walder smiled wickedly, "would you like to see it?"

"No," Walda and Emberlei held onto her skirts. "Don't go, my Queen!"

"Don't go," Emberlei repeated the sentiment.

Lothar Frey bent down towards them, ready to drag them away but Nysa put up her hand quickly. "As I said before, there is nothing out there that can get into the Twins," she assured the two girls. "What did I tell you earlier, my little Lady?"

Walda wiped her nose with her dress sleeve. "That my father and the others would protect us."

"Indeed, they will," she looked up at them as she noticed a couple of them shrink back at the praise. "Go with your father, back to your mother," she urged, turning back towards the two children, "go on. I will go outside with your Uncles and cousins."

"No," Walda hugged her again.

"I'll show you that there's nothing to be afraid of, little one," she rubbed Walda's back before pushing her gently off, "not when I have such brave knights as those who belong to House Frey," she smiled reassuringly at the little girl - glad that Ser Perwyn, Ser Jared, Ser Stevron's youngest son and two of his grandsons appeared then.

Immediately as the girls ventured down the hall towards their rooms, Ser Perwyn took Nysa by the arm and protectively stood in front of her.

"What is the meaning of this," he questioned them.

"There is a wolf outside," Ser Aenys narrowed his eyes at Nysa. "We thought the Wolf Queen would like to make friends with the beast."

"If the wolf is outside, then there is no need to..."

Ser Aenys cut off Ser Perwyn's sentence with a wave of his hand. "The beast has attacked a couple of our men. We can't ride out without that thing, lunging out at us."

"It could be the King's direwolf," Ser Jared suggested.

"I've seen that wolf," Ser Aenys shouted. "This one is different."

Nysa suddenly remembered the conversation that she had with Robb, followed by the conversation that she and Robb had with Lady Catelyn. Lady Catelyn admitted that Summer had protected Bran while he was asleep. The direwolf attacked a man who was intent on assassinating him - also protecting Lady Catelyn. Robb stated that Bran had spoken through Grey Wind, that his father had told him of a connection, a bond that the Kings of Winter had with the direwolf. Perhaps that wasn't Robb's direwolf out there but that may have been another. "You don't understand. If you stay, they'll have your head. Go and find Nymeria. Find your sister, stick together."

"Let me see it."

"My Queen," Ser Perwyn turned around to face her, pushing her back towards her room. "Perhaps you should stay in your room, lock the door behind you and keep your sword at the ready," he suggested softly.

Nysa shook her head. "Thank you for your concern, Ser Perwyn. But I have a feeling that I know exactly what is outside," she replied. "And if my assumptions are true, then there is nothing to worry about."

Sansa sat next to Margery Tyrell as they discussed jewels and other finer things of her upcoming wedding. "Isn't this one pretty," Margery touched the jewel before turning to look for Sansa's reply.

She gave a half-hearted smile. "It is, my Lady."

Margery offered a kind smile before gesturing with one hand for her ladies-in-waiting to disperse. She linked arms with Sansa and guided the woman around the gardens of King's Landing. Margery could see through Sansa's false flattery.

"I am sorry about my brother's absence," Margery started. "However, you must understand that he is most displeased with the present circumstances."

"He is to wed a fine Lady. She is the Queen, after all."

"She is the Queen Mother," Margery corrected. "I have reminded you of that. And when I wed Joffrey. I will be Queen. I had hoped to wed him sooner."

"Really," Sansa asked in surprise.

"If I had been Queen, you and my brother would have been wed. How I dread seeing two people who are so close to me torn apart," Margery waved her hand through the air. "Nevertheless, we must not think too little of our present circumstances."

Sansa almost began to sob, but Margery turned her so that they were facing one another.

"Do not fret about a thing, Sansa. Lord Tyrion is a fine man," she held Sansa's hands in hers. "If I were you, I would demand that Tyrion be made Lord of Casterly Rock."

"Lord of Casterly Rock?"

"Surely, you know that Lord Tywin couldn't name Ser Jamie as his heir," Margery pointed out, "not when he serves as a member of the Kingsguard. And even now, Ser Jamie is still missing. No one knows where he is or where he has gone to. He escaped imprisonment from your brother's camp. Surely, you know this."

"I..."

Sansa did in fact know it. Lord Tywin had informed her - in fact, he had been informing her quite frequently as to the circumstances surrounding her brother. She had learned that Nysa was with child and that her bastard brother Jon had left the Wall - forsaken his vow - and is defending the North from the Ironborn. After Lord Tywin left her - and after she had dismissed Shae - Sansa wept in joy. All was not lost. And despite the current announcement - that she was to wed Lord Tyrion instead of Loras Tyrell - Sansa found comfort in the fact that things were still going well for her - beyond the walls of Kings Landing.

"Forgive me," Margery's hold tightened on her hands. "I often get carried away when I see injustice done, especially to someone whom I was hoping to call 'sister'."

"If Lord Tyrion was to be Lord of Casterly Rock, then I would be Lady of Casterly Rock. Is that what you're saying?"

Margery laughed lightly before patting her friend's arm and continuing their journey through the gardens. "You make me smile, dear one. Did that thought only occur to you now?" Margery waved her hand again dismissively. "As I said earlier, we must not think too little of our present circumstances."

"Of course not," Sansa replied. "Do you think that Lord Tywin would truly consider..."

"It only makes sense."

Margery may have alluded to the thought but Sansa had never truly looked at it from that point of view. If she was Lady of Casterly Rock, then she could change things in the Westerlands, couldn't she?

"My requests are rarely heard by the King. And Lord Tywin is..."

"He is an intelligent man, but trust me with the correct persuasion he'll see that making Tyrion his heir would be most beneficial - especially if you are to bear a child for House Lannister," Margery reminded. "He'll need a Lannister heir to rule Casterly Rock. All you would need to do is put the idea to his head. And if you fear speaking up, I'm sure I could speak to Joffrey about it."

"Do you really think you could arrange that?"

"Of course. I will soon be Queen of all of Westeros," Margery commented before releasing Sansa's arm and walking towards the table where they would take tea with Lady Olenna.

Sansa stood there for a moment before smiling slightly. "Not all of Westeros," she whispered so softly, her voice was barely heard. Not of the North, she thought before walking over to the table to sit down next to Margery.

Nysa had done all that she could to keep Sansa safe. Ser Preston lost his life for it. Lord Tywin had said that he desired to know about Nysa. Sansa could construct something, some tale so as to get this request. The thought of becoming Lady of Casterly Rock, the wife to the Warden of the West - there was power behind that, she was certain. She could help Robb, couldn't she?

The main thing was that she would be leaving Kings Landing, surely that looked appealing?

And Cersei would be moved to Highgarden.

Joffrey would be here - no longer hurting her, threatening her.

She could learn to control the House, the castle, couldn't she? Sansa smiled as Lady Olenna came into the garden then, ordering the servants about. If Nysa - a bastard - could become Queen, then Sansa - a true-born daughter of a noble House and honorable Lord - could surely become a good Lady?

"Lady Olenna," Sansa greeted her.

"Ah, girls," Lady Olenna sat down and smiled at Sansa before patting her granddaughter's hand. "Now, what were you two speaking of?"

"Husbands," Sansa answered. "I should dearly love to know how you and your husband got along, Lady Olenna?"

The older woman smiled and pointed towards her cup as a servant hurried over to pour her some wine. "That is a wonderful tale."

Nysa gripped her cloak around her body and shivered at the cool air. She waited just outside of the gates. Ser Perwyn stood inside them - more like under them. Should anything happen to her, he'd be able to get to her quickly. And should one of his brothers decide to trap the young Queen outside, they'd have to kill him first. A sound to her left had her falling over. She caught herself just before she rolled over onto her stomach.

"Oh, my little one," she wrapped an arm protectively around her midsection. "We can't have you hurt now, can we," she smiled, rubbing her belly.

A soft growl made her body shiver. Whatever that 'monster' was, it was right by her. She contemplated shouting but something inside of her told her that it would be okay. She saw the paws of a wolf in front of her before glancing up at familiar eyes. Fear was the first thing to hit her as the body of a wolf towered overhead. As immediately as it came, it also left, and she was filled with relief.

"Lady," she smiled and was about to wrap her arms around the neck of the wolf when Lady fell to her side and whimpered.

Spasms shook the direwolf's body. Nysa had just been prepared to call Ser Perwyn when she heard a voice she had not heard in a long time.

"You're with child."

It couldn't be, she thought. Lady looked at her, her head tilting from side to side. It was almost like... No, it couldn't be. Nysa drew Lady's snout into her hands and stared at her eyes. "Bran?"

Lady's eyes softened and nudged Nysa's hand before coming to stand. Lady circled Nysa, smelling her, bumping her head and snout on Nysa's side and head.

"You're really alive, aren't you," Nysa questioned. "Robb said that you spoke to him through Grey Wind, but I never imagined that..."

"Jon is here."

Nysa cried softly and nodded. "We received word from Lady Glover. I had prayed that Jon would find you and Rickon, that you all would stay together in the North. I prayed," she wept happily.

Bran was alive. Jon was there with him. They had found one another - all was not lost. She couldn't wait to tell Lady Catelyn, to tell Arya that Jon was well, along with her other brothers. Her heart felt lighter, despite where she was currently staying as a 'guest'. Jon had found Bran and Rickon. She smiled and threw her arms around Lady's neck, burying her face in the soft fur and allowed herself to cry and laugh.

Lady licked Nysa's head as Nysa pulled away, laughing at her self. She lifted the edge of her cloak up and wiped her face. Another shocked sob escaped as she covered her mouth and shook her head in surprise at how good things were going at the moment. Bran and Rickon were alive! Jon had gone back to Winterfell. He had found them. They were home. Home, she thought.

"You can do so much more, Nysa."

Nysa sighed and remembered that she wasn't just a young maiden. She was a Queen. "I'm trying to, Bran," she closed her eyes. "I'm trying so hard to be a good Queen, but..."

"The fire," Bran's voice interrupted.

"I don't understand," Nysa shook her head.

"The fire can become so much more."

"Bran, how did you know about that," she asked in surprise, but Lady shook her head and it was gone.

The direwolf regarded her for a moment before licking Nysa's face, then quickly disappearing into the woods where she came. Nysa looked on as another wolfish form regarded her.

"Arya," she said softly as the second wolf's head bowed before following Lady.

Ser Jared nodded at his son as their party returned from Riverrun. The other five-hundred Frey guards who had left were to stay in service to their King - for now. Ser Tytos along with several of his cousins - Ser Arwood included - rode through the gates of the Twins, dismounting from their horses and nodding towards Lord Walder Frey who stood solemnly at the top of the steps to welcome them back.

"My Lord Grandfather," both Tytos and Arwood bowed their heads towards him.

He acknowledged them quickly and dismissed them just the same. Tytos followed his father, along with his cousins. He inquired after their grandfather's wife - who normally was always at Lord Walder's side. Ser Jared said that now she could be found with the group of women who surround the Queen. However, Lady Joyeuse is seeing to a recent delivery of wine that had come in from the Queen's family.

"How is the Queen," asked Tytos.

"She gets along very well," Ser Jared answered before emitting a soft smile, "with practically everyone. I will show you," he gestured for them to follow him.

They entered a part of the courtyard that Tytos and the others were certain had never been used before. Water was moving through one of the stones - like it had done in the past and there seemed to be little plants now in the ponds. Laughter echoed the halls and for a moment they all wondered what sort of madness they were venturing into.

"Ser Jared," the Queen smiled brightly at seeing them.

"Papa," two little figures squirmed from the Queen's lap and bolted pass Ser Jared, both throwing their arms around another Frey knight.

"Where were you?"

"Were you with the King?"

"Did you see his direwolf?"

"The Queen said we could pet him."

"The direwolf, not the King," one of them quickly corrected.

Nysa stood slowly and turned around. "You must be Ser Arwood," she curtsied. "I understand that you were with Ser Tytos," she looked towards Ser Jared's son who nodded at her, "delivering my terms to the King."

"Aye, my Queen," he nodded. "If my sons were bothering you..."

"It's no bother at all," Nysa assured him as one of them came back to hold her hand. "They are merely curious about King's Landing and all the knights that I've met. Like your daughter, Ryella, they enjoy a delightful story. She has a bright mind, Ser. I think she'll grow up to be as beautiful as her mother. You'll have your hands full, if you don't already with these two," she gently patted the head of the boy by her.

"Thank you, my Queen," Ser Arwood nodded again, a smile forming on his lips then.

"All of you are just in time," she looked over her shoulder, "the young men of the Twins seem to be telling me a tale."

"What of, your Grace," Ser Tytos stepped forward.

"The history of Harrenhal," Nysa smiled before leaning in slightly to whisper, "at least the bits and pieces they remember from their lessons. And considering that Oswell," she spoke at a normal tone this time and glanced at the young man sitting by her, "will become Lord of Harrenhal and carry on the Frey name in that castle, I thought it would be wonderful for him to enjoy the story-telling as well."

"I've heard about that," another man spoke up. "It was rather generous of you and King to compensate my grandfather well - especially after breaking a pact the King made with us."

Nysa attempted not to allow the comment to bring her down.

"My nephew, Rhaeger," Ser Jared gestured towards the short, plump man next to them.

"I have met your father, Ser Aenys," Nysa tried her best not to grimace at the memory of Ser Aenys welcoming her to Riverrun. Like father - like son, she thought. She bravely smiled and looked Rhaegar in the eyes, "he is a very clever man and an excellent fighter." Hoping to draw the attention back to the boys, she began, "there was a monster outside of the Twins less than a fortnight ago and he bravely ventured out to the beast."

"He did," one of the boys ran by her, eager to hear the story.

Glad that it worked, Nysa nodded her head as the young boy smiled.

"That's my grandfather!"

"Oh, is he," she smiled and looked at Rhaegar, who didn't want his son anyone near her. "Perhaps you can become a commanding soldier as he," she suggested which made the other young boys laugh. "What is so funny?"

"Jonos," the one they call 'Little' Walder laughed and pushed the young boy in the back, "become a soldier. He isn't strong enough, your Grace."

"He likes reading," another one of them pushed him.

"He wants to become a Maester!"

The boys began to laugh again.

Nysa watched as Jonos went to turn around, but she took his hand in her free one. "If becoming a Maester is what you wish, there is no shame in that," she stated with a smile. Moving back to sit down on the bench, she placed Androw back in her lap and moved the young Jonos to stand in front of her. "Maesters have important responsibilities."

"They do," one of the boys questioned.

"Aye they do," Nysa answered. "They do more than just assist in childbirth and treat illnesses. They teach life lessons that you will take with you, wherever you go. Did you know that the King didn't like his lessons with the Maester," she said as Jonos's interest piqued. "He most certainly did not. But I enjoyed it. I looked forward to my lessons and do you know why?"

Jonos and the others shook their heads.

"Because," she shifted Androw on her lap, tighter to her but gently pressing against her belly, "I learned from Maester Luwin at Winterfell and Maester Sylas at Karhold the words and sigil of each House in Westeros. They taught me the traits and characteristics of each House. For example, House Tully's words are..."

"I know, I know," one of them raised their hands. "It's 'Family, Duty, and Honor'."

"That's right, Walder," she said as the older boy puffed out his chest. "They are more than just your liege Lord. Riverrun's Lady is your kin, it's best to know their words," she added as they all nodded. "Knowing a lot about Riverrun and House Tully made me proud to know Lady Catelyn. She lives her life with those words in mind, she keeps them close. Other Houses speak of courage, compassion, determination and their steadfastness. Other Houses describe their fury, their roar," she said as they all continued to smile and hang on every word, "their fierceness, their tirelessness, their truth, their burning. That is something that I'll always remember Maester Luwin and Maester Sylas stressing," she looked at Jonos, giving him her undivided attention. "Each House is different, has their own strengths to offer their Realm and their Kingdom. Without Maesters to teach us, we would never know that House Bracken is never to be trampled, House Mallister is above the rest or that the House Frey of the Twins and Harrenhal," she smiled at Oswell, before glancing back at Jonos.

"No Limits," Jonos replied.

"I don't think I heard you," she smiled.

Jonos smiled and puffed out his chest, "No Limits," he shouted as did the others.

"There is no limit on what you can do and what you can become, Jonos Frey. If you wish to be a Maester, remember that they help the House in no other way possible. They teach little Lords and little Ladies. They help the current Lord and Lady with timeless advice and knowledge. You will help raise the next generation of Westeros. Without the Maesters, I wouldn't have known just how important every House is, such as House Frey. So, if you want to become a Maester, you have that hefty responsibility, too. Remember 'No Limits'," she repeated as he smiled and nodded.

"No Limits," Jonos said as the other boys began to pat him on the back and praise him for the journey ahead.

"Good," Nysa straightened out. "Now, where were we in our story," she asked as the boys began to scatter about.

"My Lords, knights," one of the Frey boys bowed, "my Queen." Nysa nodded her head at him. "I give to you my favorite Harrenhal story - the death of the Mountain," the little boy made his voice shake as Nysa, Oswell and the others present began to clap.

"What would Arya be doing with a letter," Lady Catelyn questioned as she took the letter from Ser Brynden before handing it to Robb. "I can barely understand this," she shook her head before looking up at Arya - standing in the middle of the room with a thoughtful expression.

Robb read the letter.

You sent me away.
I understood what forced you.
Remember the crossing,
the saving of two.

"What does this mean," Robb held that up for his sister.

Arya fidgeted before looking around the room. "I need everyone to leave," she stated plainly.

"Arya," Lady Catelyn began to censure her but Robb shook his head.

He nodded towards a few of his Lords who were gathered there. When they had received a raven from the Twins with Nysa's handwriting, Robb decided to call together Edmure, Ser Brynden and a few others to consult about what was to be done. Instead Ser Brynden had shocked everyone when he said the letter was to Princess Arya. There remained in the room, Lady Catelyn, Robb, Edmure and the Blackfish - only kin.

Once the doors had shut, Arya waited for another moment before smiling at Grey Wind in the corner. "Nymeria and Lady are at the Twins."

"Who is at the Twins," Edmure turned towards his sister.

Lady Catelyn sighed. "Robb is not the only one with a direwolf," she answered her brother. "Nymeria belongs to Arya and Lady belongs to Sansa. When you saw them last," her attention was on her daughter once again, "that was quite some time ago, Arya. How can you be sure?"

"I just know. I can't explain it, but I know," Arya glanced nervously at Robb before lifting her head higher. "And Nysa's letter says it as well."

"You got that from this odd poetry," the Blackfish questioned.

"Why not just say that in front of..."

Arya shook her, stopping Edmure from finishing his question. "While we were at the Inn at the Crossroads, Nymeria attacked Joffrey to protect me. Cersei wanted Nymeria dead. I sent her away. Because they couldn't find her, they wanted Sansa's direwolf. Nysa let her go in the woods, helping to save them both. My father presented a wolf's skin to Cersei, but it wasn't Lady," she shook her head.

"The Lannisters think they're dead," the Blackfish smiled.

Arya nodded. Then, she looked back at her brother and mother.

"It's obvious that House Frey doesn't know about them, either. If they did," she gestured to the letter, "Nysa wouldn't have phrased the letter in such a way. The crossing instead of crossroads," Arya said, "it means that they are there at the Twins. I sent Nymeria away, Nysa saved Lady - the saving of two. And now the two of them are there, protecting her. I know it."

Nysa sighed as her arrow missed the center, but hit the outer rim. She stared at the target before taking a step back. She wanted to use the excuse that she was with child - her swollen belly getting in the way. In all honestly, it wasn't that much of a problem. Perhaps it was because it wasn't Torrhen's bow that she was using.

"You aim against the wind," Tyta told her, nodding towards the target. She notched an arrow and lifted her bow in the air. "Use it to your advantage," Tyta said before releasing the arrow and making her mark on the target.

Cheers and claps were heard in the back - louder than when Nysa shot her arrow. Nysa smiled as Tyta turned around and curtsied for her sisters and nieces.

"You truly are an amazing archer," Nysa turned to look at her. "Why do you not fight with your brothers - for the King, that is?"

Tyta looked at her Queen in confusion. "Women aren't allowed to..."

"You do know that one of the King's personal guards is a woman," Nysa pointed out. "Not to mention that other than your brother Stevron and several guards under my brother's command - I, too, also have a woman as my personal guard."

Tyta shook her head. "My father would never allow it. He is still upset with me that I haven't found a good husband, yet." Nysa tilted her head. "I scare them away, apparently. No Lord wants a soldier for a wife."

"I know exactly what type of woman your father thinks makes a suitable wife," Nysa sighed.

"He truly isn't a bad man. He has his moments, of course," Tyta explained. "But we are all well-cared for, my Queen."

"I know. I just wish that I could do more. Not just for the brides to be, but for all of you," Nysa stepped forward as a sudden idea struck her mind. "What if I was to ask your father if you could come with me?"

"You have a Lord in mind for me to wed?"

"I had not thought of it. Perhaps one day there could be, if you wish for me to arrange it. But, I meant as a guard - a Queensguard."

Nysa could see that with that small statement, Tyta's interest had been piqued. For the past few weeks - other than sewing and breaking fast with the other Ladies, Nysa had been out here in the yard training with Lady Tyta, Ser Perwyn and Ser Jared. Oswell had come out a few times to learn how to use a sword properly - every Lord should. But on the occasions that Tyta had been allowed to spar with her brothers - she had shown that she could best all of them. And as Nysa had learned, not all the Ladies were permitted to leave the Twins. Tyta could grow and thrive beyond these walls - just like the rest of them. She was sure of it.

"It's not an easy task, I assure you," Nysa began as Tyta continued to think on the matter. "If you were to come with me, you'd have to guard me, watch over me and my children. And I'm sure Lyra Mormont could tell you that I do often share my concerns, so, a patient, listening ear is a quality you would need," she smiled. "If you desire a husband, then I could always..."

"I don't," Tyta looked up suddenly. "At least not right away."

Nysa nodded.

"It's just that," she paused before continuing, "I want my freedom, your Grace," Tyta stood tall. "These past few days, you gave me a taste of that. You gave all of us a taste of that," she gestured towards the other women in the distance. "My father's wife smiles," Tyta said with a small laugh, "everyone smiles. I do not know what will happen when you leave this place."

"I will still be Queen of the Trident," Nysa replied. "I will do all that I can."

"Do you know just how much you've given the Ladies in the Riverlands? When you hear of how you arranged a marriage between House Bracken and House Blackwood," Tyta drew close to tears, "to hear of a Queen - our Queen - listen to our concerns, answer our daughter's questions, ease the minds of the guards' families - it gives us hope that someone cares for us. And when you leave, you take that with you."

Nysa shook her head. "I'll still be looking out for those under my rule. It's why I'm taking Alyx, Merianne and Shirei with me. I need to know the concerns of the Riverlands. If I truly am your Queen..."

"To many of us, you already are." Tyta took another step back and looked at her target that they had shot. "That is why we believe in you and why I'll accept. I'll become your Queensguard, my Queen."

Robb sighed and pulled his horse to a stop just before they reached the bridge to the Twins. Grey Wind had been leading the party but had also stopped to stare out into the nearby woods. Robb called him back before looking at the woods as well. After the meeting - after Edmure and the Blackfish had left - Arya had stated that sometimes at night, she could see herself running through the woods, alongside Lady and several other wolves. That's how she knew they were by the Twins. She had seen Nysa. She had seen Bran. She had seen Jon. She thought it was all madness, but Nysa's letter confirmed it for her.

Robb knew then - knew that his sister had the same bond as well.

The direwolves of House Stark were watching over their Queen, too.

"I extend to you my hospitality and protection in the light of the Seven," Lord Frey continued as he was then offered up the salt and bread.

"We thank you for your hospitality, my Lord," Robb replied.

"Yes, yes, well four weddings," he smiled, leaning forward, "and three more have been promised to my House. The Queen has truly made amends."

"I am glad that she did. Now, I also hope to offer up my apologies to you and your daughters," Robb spoke. "It was cruel and unjust for me to break an oath to both you and them. Is there any way I can beg for their forgiveness for my actions?"

"That would be fitting, but they are not here."

"Then where are they, my Lord?"

"Getting ready for this wedding. It's costing nothing to me, I daresay, but to open my gates to all the guests who are present," Lord Frey opened his hand. "I do not know how she did it, but the Queen was able to get Arbor gold and Dornish red wine," he smiled as the men cheered. "Said I could have the left-over barrels which would amount to plenty," he looked towards the door way as it opened and closed.

"Forgive me, your Grace," a small voice spoke up from behind the Frey men. Some of them scoffed and didn't move, that was until whoever had entered the room began to stomp her foot impatiently. "If you will not move, then the Queen shall be most displeased with all of you."

Robb noticed that a couple of them showed fear in their eyes before moving out of the way. His eyes then settled upon a young woman - perhaps the same age if not younger than Arya. She held her head high as she walked past the Frey men - a small smile displayed on Ser Perwyn and a few others. While Ser Stevron and the other Frey men with him looked shocked. She walked briskly past them and curtsied in front of Robb as he nodded his head towards her.

"My youngest, Shirei," Lord Frey spoke up. "The Queen has requested that Shirei be among the four Frey women who she is taking with her North."

Robb noted that the presence of the young girl was met with shocked whispers from behind him. Ser Stevron had murmured that surely this wasn't his youngest sister. She had been the first Frey woman - girl, in this case - that they had come across. She was dressed in a beautiful green gown and her hair was arranged in a braid befitting a Princess. He glanced at Arya to see that she was fidgeting in her grey gown from Lady Whent but her hair - now shoulder length - hung around her face. It was the best that his mother could do, considering Arya had put up a fit about dressing.

"It is a pleasure to meet you, Lady Shirei," Robb bowed.

"Pleasure is mine, your Grace," she dipped into a curtsy again to Robb and then swiftly looked over to Lady Catelyn. "My Lady Stark, I am so very pleased to meet you. The Queen has told me many kind things about you and to meet someone from House Tully, I consider it an honor indeed."

"The honor is mine, I assure you," Lady Catelyn smiled and curtsied to the girl in reply.

Another woman stepped in the room, behind Lady Shirei and curtsied. Ser Stevron and the others behind him cursed and murmured. Edmure noted that the woman was tall, decent looks but plain - according to him. The Frey men noted the obvious difference in their sister, though. What had happened while they were in Riverrun? Jory noted that the woman wore a dagger on her side and had a bow strung across her shoulder - just as Nysa would.

"My other daughter, Tyta," Lord Frey stated. "She has become somewhat of guard or, what have you..."

"I serve as Queen Nysa's personal guard," the Lady answered.

Lyra Mormont stepped forward. "For now, my Lady," she replied hotly.

"It seems as though we both will be in service to the Queen," Tyta smiled.

"Women," Lord Frey scoffed. "Your wife chooses women to guard her, bah," he chuckled and waved at his daughter dismissively. "She thinks she can shoot an arrow better than my sons," he laughed again. "I've told them, though, there's only place where a woman belongs and it's not out in the yard."

"Come, come, Lord Frey," all heads turned to see Nysa walked in slowly behind Lady Tyta. "There's no need to be so forward. At least let us wait until we've had some food and wine in our bellies," she said as the men cheered again, "before we let the crude remarks fly."