A/N So sorry for my slow updates and this probably isn't my best work, so much uni work going on at the moment I've not had time to work on it as much as before
Chapter 16 - Revealed in Trees
The new encampment situated nearer the crossing had a different air to the last one. They were making progress and moving further south; the impending war seemed a little more real than it had whilst they were still within the relative safety of the north. Robb and Theon had gathered some of the other men to shoot any ravens flying to or from The Twins.
"So how long are we going to stand here and shoot birds?" Theon complained as he notched another arrow and took aim.
"As long as we have to," Robb answered solemnly, not taking his eyes off his target. "Though I think I should go and speak with old Walder. See what his terms are in negotiating passage, no doubt he's more than aware of our presence by now."
"I knew I liked you Stark, a real do-er through and through," Theon grinned as his target plummeted to the ground with a shriek. "No doubt Alyssa would also agree with-"
"Shut it," Robb warned, cutting him off. He wasn't the best archer and Theon's comment had completely put him off. "In fact, gather my council, including my mother. I might as well inform them of my plans, maybe they can advise me on how best to butter up the old toad,"
"Rather you than me," Theon muttered, leaving to do as he was bid. Robb noticed another raven and took aim again; glad Theon had left when his arrow completely missed the target.
"You'll end up wasting those," a familiar voice called out.
"Lady Dorsinger, I didn't realise you were here," he said in surprise, putting down his bow. "Have you been here long?"
"No, just came for a wander," she shrugged.
"Do not let me interrupt you, in fact if you'll excuse me I need to be elsewhere," he greeted her with a smile and a small courteous nod of the head which she returned. Marching to his war tent, he was pleased to see Theon had already gathered those closest to him. He was feeling more confident now about addressing the older men and his mother, and in turn they seemed to place more faith in him as a leader. Carefully, he explained his plan that he would go alone to speak with Lord Frey and negotiate passage for all of them, men if he could get them.
"Alone?" quipped Theon. "Are you sure? I hear he can be a sneaky old git,"
"Aye, and greedy too. No doubt he'll try and manipulate you," added Jon Umber. The council broke out into small quarrels, as to if he should go alone and who would go with him.
"I'll go," announced Catelyn, and all of the men turned to look at her. She hesitated, but when Robb nodded she smiled and continued. "Walder Frey is my father's banner man. I've known him since I was a girl and have no reason to distrust him, nor will I come to any harm. Please Robb, let me go," Robb was silent as he considered her proposition. She spoke the truth; if any of them stood a chance at making progress it would be her.
"Alright," he finally agreed. "But you are to have an escort to and from Lord Frey's keep, and if anything untoward happens..."
"It won't," she stated, he saw the look of hard resolve in her eyes. He nodded in return.
"Very well," he turned to address the rest of the room. "My mother will ride and negotiate with Lord Frey. Meanwhile, Jaime Lannister's army is still on the move and I plan on meeting him. In battle," This made the room break out into even more ruckus, which Robb quickly and confidently got under control as they made battle plans.
Since hearing the news of his brother's impending war, Jon hadn't said a word to anyone. As soon as he had finished his duties, he headed straight for his room where he paced around so much that Ghost was visibly uncomfortable. In his head and heart, he'd already made his decision.
That night, when everyone else was asleep and knowing those on guard duty would be facing the other side of the wall, he would saddle his horse and ride to Robb. He would be an oath breaker, but despite his bastard status, family meant more. He couldn't deny the compelling force that seemed to be pulling him away from honour and duty in the night's watch.
He also couldn't deny that Robb's war and his father's honour wasn't the only reason he was leaving.
Uncle Benjen had been right.
A small crowd had gathered, anxiously awaiting the safe return of Catelyn Stark. At last, her and her escorts appeared in the distance, making good progress towards them. Robb was in his tent, having been informed of her arrival.
"So what did he say?" he asked her as soon as she had arrived and barely removed her cloak.
"Walder Frey has granted you access, as well as six hundred men," Catelyn replied with a thin smile, though her eyes revealed there was more to it.
"Go on, what did he want?" Robb urged, already knowing he wouldn't be too happy with the answer.
"Well, Arya is to marry one of his sons when she comes of age," she began. This elicited a laugh from Theon.
"She won't like that," grinned Robb.
"That's not all," Catelyn continued. "Arya will marry one of Walder's sons, and also you're to take another of his sons, Olyver, as your squire. In addition to that, two of his grandsons, Little Walder and Big Walder are to be wards at Winterfell," Robb ran his hand through his hair. It was a lot to ask, but he needed this crossing.
"Fine, if that will get us across then I agree," he sighed.
"There's more," Catelyn's tone grew hesitant now. Robb raised an eyebrow; he really wasn't going to like this news. "You are to marry one of his daughters. Your choice of which." She looked pained as she broke the news to him, knowing that he had strong feelings for her niece-in-law. Robb's face was expressionless, yet he felt rage build up inside him. He knew the marriage would be advantageous to the Freys, and Walder wasn't to know he was already in love with another.
"I see," he replied, looking round at the expectant faces around him. Even Theon didn't have anything to say that would not result in Robb tearing his head from his shoulders. He returned his gaze to his mother, who was still looking at him imploringly. "And I need to agree to this in order to cross?"
"Yes," she replied softly, looking at the floor.
"And there is no other way?" he added, hoping against hope there would be. His mother shook her head. "In which case, I accept if that's what it takes. Gentlemen, excuse me," he bowed slightly and left. Theon moved to go after him but was stopped by Catelyn who gently put her hand on his arm and shook her head.
Robb initially headed to his own tent, but fearing Alyssa might be there he changed his course. His head was still reeling with the news so he decided to get some sword practice in to let off steam.
Alyssa was indeed in his tent, but it wasn't Robb she was thinking of. Even though it was the middle of the afternoon, she was currently buried beneath the furs of his bed with her hand buried deep within her legs moving frantically. She bit her lip hard to suppress the moans of pleasure she was bringing herself, not even feeling guilty that it was Jon she was thinking of and not Robb. This was no dream, merely the product of her imagination. Since the dream she had back in Winterfell, she had been left with what felt like an itch she couldn't scratch. Frequently, she felt torn – she loved Robb but realised she couldn't get Jon out of her head. At least he was at the wall, far away. As her orgasm subsided, she lay back taking deep breaths in order to compose herself again.
Olivia was sitting with some of the other camp women, mainly soldier's wives and mistresses, sharing tales and gossip about the Lannisters and life in the capital.
"You must have met Jaime Lannister," one piped up. "What's he like? Have you ever spoken to him?" Olivia's face darkened and she quickly tried to regain her composure.
"Yes, I've encountered him a couple of times," she shrugged, thinking of a way to change the subject.
"Really?" she squealed; clearly these women viewed him as some kind of celebratory figure. What a shame the man was nothing like rumour would suggest. "I can't imagine what he's like! Goodness, to meet the Kingslayer in the flesh. I wouldn't trust him, though I do hear he's very handsome,"
"Some would say so," Olivia answered carefully. "But I don't like or trust any of them. What you see on the surface isn't what lies beneath,"
"I saw him when he came to Winterfell," another quipped, and all attention turned to her as she was much more forthcoming with details. Olivia sighed and looked around her, now that the focus was on Jaime she no longer cared what was being said. He just made her feel angry, though before she could dwell on it anymore Theon approached their circle with a glum expression on his face.
"Theon," she called, standing. "Excuse me ladies," she curtseyed out of politeness, "I'll speak with you later," the women were too caught up in the tales of Jaime Lannister they were hearing to pay her much mind. "What's wrong?" she asked, noticing how quiet he was.
"Fancy taking a walk?" he asked, holding his arm out to her. "Looks like there might be rain later so we may as well make the most of it,"
"That would be nice," she replied, slipping her arm in his. "Are you alright? You haven't said anything lewd and look ever so serious," he shot her a look, and guided her to the edge of camp where the woods began.
"Is that all you think of me, some lewd brute?" he snapped.
"Gods Theon, I was only trying to lighten your mood, and please slow down," she struggled to keep pace with him. Checking himself he slowed.
"Sorry, I know. I didn't mean to be so curt," he tried smiling and kissed the corner of her mouth. "Lady Stark returned with Lord Walder's terms for crossing, though if I tell you, you must keep them to yourself,"
"Of course," she replied. Whatever it was had certainly affected Theon's mood. "They're not marrying you off are they? I know you're Lord Stark's ward but..."
"Olivia," he cut her off. "Just wait until we're somewhere more private. Please," She nodded, tightness growing in her belly. They walked for some time in silence, deep into the shelter of the woods. The sun filtered gently through the canopy of trees, and birds were singing. It was quite beautiful, lush and full of life. At that moment it was difficult to imagine they were riding towards war, that Theon and Robb would be engaging in actual battle.
After a good few of hours, and having recalled his war council to finalise their plans to meet the Lannisters, the first light raindrops began to fall. Robb had been training with some of his men, still avoiding telling Alyssa of his betrothal. With a sigh, he threw down his sword and stood panting, enjoying the fresh drops of cool water on his face. The light shower quickly turned into a heavy downpour, and soon he was soaked through as he quickly made his way to his tent for the first time since his mother's return.
He took a deep breath before he entered, knowing with a heavy heart he would have to break the news.
"Alyssa?" he called softly as he stepped inside the canvas. He saw she was cured up asleep in his bed, and smiling to himself he gently sat beside her and stroked her hair. "I'm back," he said softly as she stirred.
"Mmm, Robb?" she asked, voice thick with sleep.
"Unless you were expecting anyone else," he smiled, kissing her temple as she opened her eyes. The rain grew heavier and thudded against the walls and roof of the tent blocking out all other noise from the encampment.
"You're soaked through!" she exclaimed, sitting up and pushing him away, "You'll ruin the bedding!" sighing - he seemed to do a lot of that recently - he stood and began to remove his cloak and breastplate.
"Better?" he asked, holding his palms up and turning in a small circle.
"Much. The last thing you need right now is catching a chill," she scolded. "Come warm yourself and tell me how your mother fared with Lord Walder," That was what Robb had been dreading; the moments knowing that they loved each other and everything was right in their world were numbered and getting smaller. She patted the spot beside herself and looked at him expectantly.
"Well, he granted us passage," he began.
"That's wonderful, your mother must have a silver tongue," she clapped with glee, puzzled as to why his face looked so glum.
"There are terms," he explained slowly, and recounted what those terms were. Alyssa sat staring at him with her mouth slightly open. it felt like a door had slammed on her path to happiness right into her face.
"You're betrothed to one of his daughters," she repeated, frozen to the spot. Just when everything had seemed so perfect, in one instant that world had come crashing down. Seeing the pain in her eyes wrenched Robb's heart yet he knew he had to do the right thing, the honourable thing.
"I'm sorry," was all he could say. "I really am, you know how important it is we cross and I'm not married to her now. Please believe me, it's you I want."
"I don't know what to say," she replied listlessly, avoiding his gaze as tears slipped down her cheeks. "What about us?" sharing a tent with a man who was promised - be it against his will or for political power or that - was extremely taboo in such circumstances. It was not uncommon for men to take a mistress in the towns or visit the brothels, but here Robb had to prove himself as Lord of Winterfell.
"I don't know if there can officially be an us," he replied sadly, " but please don't go Alyssa. I really, really don't want this. Stay... let me have you for at least a little while,"
"I don't know if I can," her reply was a choked whisper. Robb didn't move to stop her as she pushed away the blankets and climbed out of the bed.
"Please, stay," he begged, reaching out to take her hand but she pulled it away.
"You just said it Robb, and there's much more at stake than what happens between two young people in love," That bit got him, he managed to hold his composure as she pulled n her cloak and slowly walked to the flap.
"I love you," he called after her, and she paused for a second but didn't look back.
"I love you too," she replied, softly but clearly above the sound of the pounding rain. Robb sat and stared at the flap of his tent for several minutes after she left, allowing the tears that were threatening to spill cascade silently from the corners of his eyes.
Although the rain was relentless, Alyssa staggered slowly to her own tent where she was surprised yet relieved to see Olivia. One look at her cousin's face told Olivia that Alyssa knew the terms of Lord Walder, and silently she took her in her arms as Alyssa sobbed against her shoulder. It was such a heartbreaking sight that Olivia shed a few tears in sympathy. Exhausted, Alyssa curled up beside her cousin and fell into a restless sleep.
A few days later, early in the morning, Robb led his men to battle; 18,000 men against Jaime Lannister's army. He had sent the other 2000 to meet with Tywin Lannister's host further south as a decoy, knowing full well that none of them would return.
Alyssa had been in her tent for the last few days. At first Robb had tried sending her messages yet she had thrown them straight in the fire. She needed to decide what to do; Winterfell was out of the question as no doubt Robb and his soon to be wife would be living there. As most of the men were away, she decided to venture out and speak with Lady Catelyn.
One of the guards announced her as she awaited permission to enter Lady Stark's tent,
"Alyssa!" she exclaimed, coming out to meet the young woman herself. "How in the Gods' names have you been? I've been worried about you. Come in,"
"Thank you Lady Stark," she replied, noticing not for the first time how many of her features she shared with Robb. "Are you anxious about the battle?"
"Of course," she replied. "It's not the first time someone I love has gone and risked their life, Gods know I've been through it enough times with Ned before I convinced him to stay in the North where he belonged," she smiled but Alyssa could see the pain and worry in her eyes.
"I know it's probably the last thing on your mind right now, but Robb told me about the agreement with Lord Frey," Alyssa began. "And I'm not here to beg you to help change his mind - I know his reasons are honourable and with the best intent. I'm actually here to enquire about my Lady Aunt, how fares she?" Catelyn's expression showed a slight sign of concern, though she knew it would be no use lying to the girl.
"I fear for my sister's sanity. I fear being up in the Eyrie after your uncle's death is taking its' toll on her mentally and physically yet she's as defiant as ever," she replied evenly.
"Oh," Alyssa frowned; this was not the response she had been hoping for. "My options are getting narrower and narrower,"
"Options?" Lady Stark raised an eyebrow.
"I can't stay here. Not anymore, knowing he's betrothed to another." Catelyn embraced her, seeing the girl was on the verge of tears.
"I know," she soothed. "But don't go. You love each other. He needs you, you're the one he's secretly fighting for despite my husband's status. You're the one that puts the brave face on when he faces his war council and rode into battle this morning,"
"How do you know?" Alyssa gulped.
"I'm his mother. Of course I know, and don't you think I'm old enough to know a thing or two about love?"
Alyssa elicited a small giggle at this, despite herself.
"it's just so painful," she admitted.
"Of course it is, nobody said it was going to be easy. Just take each day as it comes,"
"Thank you," Alyssa smiled for the first time in days. Suddenly, they were interrupted by a scout rushing into her tent.
"Pardon me Lady Stark, Lady Arryn, but Robb's host has been seen on their way back; they're quite a way away but it's definitely them,"
The women leapt into action immediately, the whole camp was buzzing. Joined by Olivia, they found a good viewing point on a slightly raised hill and looked out over the trees, ready for good or bad news.
"There's Robb!" shrieked Olivia, spotting him before Alyssa and Catelyn. Alyssa couldn't stop the tears of joy and relief at seeing him alive, and her and Catelyn embraced with happiness. Their celebration was brought to a halt when at the same time, all three women noticed another had joined him. "What the fuck is he doing here?" Olivia asked, menace in her voice.
"Jaime Lannister!" Catelyn exclaimed in surprise, rooted to the spot.
"Now now, surely we can settle this once and for all. You and me, one on one combat," Jaime suggested, a little too casually as he was led mercilessly as Robb marched to rejoin his camp. Robb paused and turned to look at his prisoner with disgust.
"No. I'm not settling anything with you on your terms, I would be a fool to do so," he replied, turning again and resuming his journey.
Alyssa was the only one to move, running towards Robb with tears streaming down her face. She had in that moment decided she could forgive Catelyn, Walder and Robb for his betrothal as seeing him back safe and sound was everything she had prayed for. She also felt a pang of guilt for her recent feelings about Jon. Robb's eyes lit up as he looked up and saw her, she was like a heavenly vision in a thick grey dress, not a drop of blood or speck of grime on her.
"Alyssa," he grinned, increasing his pace to meet her, dragging the bound and grumbling Kingslayer behind him.
"Robb!" she cried, tears pricking the corner of her eyes. She completely ignored Jaime, and ran to him kissing him fiercely despite the fact he was covered in blood and mud, not caring who saw.
"I'm sure Lord Walder will be delighted to see you keeping your side of the bargain, tell me which of his daughters is she?" Jaime uttered, earning him a venomous glance and a tug forwards from Robb. Alyssa glared at him as Robb forced Jaime into the hands of one of his men.
As they celebrated in private in his tent once Robb was cleaned up, it actually felt like things were going in their favour despite what the future would inevitably hold; more war, more death, more blood and Robb's marriage to one of the Frey girls.
Theon and Olivia were doing some celebrating of their own, throwing caution to the wind by finding a secluded spot deep in the woods surrounding the camp. They were lucky there were no scouts passing by, as Olivia currently had her back against the rough bark of a sturdy oak and her legs wrapped firmly around Theon's waist as he took her, raking his teeth over her neck and collar bone. Olivia responded by increasing her grip, biting her lip to try and silence herself as she cried out in a delightful mixture of pleasure and pain.
As he neared his own climax, Theon increased his pace and thrust into her harder; he now understood the need for a woman after battle. After they were both spent, he gently lowered her so her feet were on the floor and pulled her close to him.
"Don't you dare go getting yourself married off, Theon Greyjoy. I insist," she gasped, still getting her breath back.
"I have no intentions of doing so any time soon," he replied with a smirk. "What was that?" he asked sharply and suddenly, swooping Olivia between him and the tree so that he could protect her and survey his surroundings.
"What was wha-?" she began
"Shh," he whispered, cutting her off. He was grateful that although he didn't have his trusty bow, he had a sword and hunting knife to hand of which he fingered the hilts. They both heard it that time - a faint yet distinct rustling noise. Olivia suddenly felt very scared and very far away from the main encampment.
"Who's there? Show yourself now!" Theon called out, sounding a lot braver than either of them felt. It could be a Lannister spy for all they knew, taking stock after the recent encounters. Instead, a huge white creature stepped out from a dense patch of trees roughly thirty feet away.
"Wolf," hissed Olivia, voice catching in her throat at the size of it.
"It can't be," muttered Theon. There was only one wolf of that size and colour he knew of, and it belonged to - "Jon?" he called aloud, feeling stupid the instant he did. The wolf stayed where it was, not making a sound yet not coming any closer, merely seeming to contemplate them as if it were a casual game of chess.
Olivia held her breath - what in the seven hells was going on? Jon was at the wall - Theon must be mistaken. That was until a figure in peasant's garb emerged from a little way behind the wolf. Theon was taken aback - it bloody was Jon! He didn't know whether to be angry with him for missing the battle, leaving the wall or pleased to see him.
"Seven save us - Jon! What are you doing here?" Theon demanded, leaving Olivia open mouthed by the tree as he strode over to greet his friend.
"Quiet! I've not been here long, Ghost and I have been living further in the woods for the last couple of days. Please don't tell Robb," he implored.
"How can I not? Jon, do you know what they'll do if they find you? You can't expect Robb to hide you and fight a war - what were you thinking?" he scolded, not sure whether to be pleased Jon had risked his life for his brother's aid or angry with him for causing more problems.
"I know, I know. Look, I just need to figure it out, I've been keeping an eye on the camp since I got here - out of sight of course. And if it hadn't been for Ghost you'd never have known I was here!" he argued.
"And what was your next move going to be? Casually stroll into camp? Can you imagine what Lady Stark would have to say if she knew you were here?"
"No doubt she'd be first to call for my head," he smirked, in spite of himself. It was quite ridiculous, the journey he had undertaken. He'd sold his horse in a nearby town, thinking it easier to sneak around on foot. His clothes he had stolen when they were left drying on a rock - he'd thrown all of his black garments in the river and wore a simple brown tunic over dark green breeches.
Olivia strode over to join them, not sure whether to hug Jon or throw a rock at his head.
"So what are you going to do?" asked Theon, idly petting Ghost who had come for a closer look and seemingly recognised their two companions.
"I'm going to speak to Robb," Jon shrugged. "I'm still working on that part of the plan," Theon sighed and ran his hand through his hair. He updated Jon on the events of the last few months, triumphantly finishing with Robb's capture of Jaime Lannister at which Jon's eyes grew wide as saucers.
"I can't leave you out here," Theon huffed, kicking at the leaves on the ground. "You will be easy enough to deal with, but that bloody wolf? With him I'm not so sure. In fact I'm surprised Grey Wind's not picked up on his scent,"
"Well, I've been careful so far and not been here long," Jon reminded him.
"Look, meet me here just after sundown. I'll bring you something to eat and we'll figure this one out,"
Meanwhile, in King's Landing, Lord Eddard Stark was executed for treason.
