Love Speaks Louder Than Words

by Amara Lightskipper

Bran's life seemed to be in order, until he met someone who changed it: Meera. But things turn upside down when they found out that their families were on two opposing sides of a conflict that happened years ago that still remains unresolved. How far will they go for love? Will their love open their families' eyes to seek forgiveness and move on?

10. Trekking

BRAN

Bran graduated his degree with the highest distinction, forced to do some inspirational speech, and introduced Meera to his family—but his parents' expressions when they met Meera's parents, had completely bothered him.

Just as it happened, Bran couldn't get it out of his head. And he was sure it's gonna affect his relationship with Meera.

He wanted to ask the problem was, but didn't have the courage until that Monday morning after his sister Arya had left for Moat Cailin for her seminar in Harrenhal. And while Vayon was helping Rickon carry his stuff into Bran's car, Bran went to see their Dad in his study.

Bran gently rapped his knuckles on his Dad's study's door. "Dad, do you have a minute?" He asked.

"Come in," His Dad answered and his face lit up when he saw him. "Oh, Bran, what is it? Has your brother already packed?"

"Uh, yeah," Bran replied. "Vayon's helping him with his stuff into my car." He cleared his throat. "What happened years ago between you and the Reeds?"

The question caught his Dad off guard, and his face dropped.

"Dad, don't deny it," He added. "You look like you wanted to sucker punch Howland Reed when you saw him."

Ned Stark wouldn't meet his eyes. He grabbed a pen from his penholder on the table and started signing papers. "That's a good question for another time."

"Dad, there was an obvious tension when you met again." Bran insisted. "Maybe we can help—" He started to say.

"Now is not the time for this, Brandon." Ned interrupted.

"When will be the time, then?" He asked.

"Just stay away from that family."

Bran sighed. "Dad, I love Meera. And the tension between you and her Dad is—"

"Brandon,"

"What happened back then?" Bran pried. "Is it really that messy to the point that we were all kept in the dark?"

Ned dropped his pen and glared at him. "It's not your problem to worry about."

"Probably not," He agreed. "But it's affecting us in a way, especially Meera and I."

"You know your brother's probably waiting for you."

Bran shook his head in disbelief. "I thought you said every problem has a solution and that you should face it to fix it. But you're not doing that yourself." He said, then hurriedly got out of the study.

Summer was waiting for him at the bottom of the grand staircase. Bran had then clipped the leash onto his dog's harness before walking out their front door.

Rickon had already fastened his dog, Shaggy onto his car's backseat and was currently attaching a dog seatbelt on the shotgun seat for Summer.

"Are you all set?" Bran asked.

Rickon was startled and hit his head on the interior roof of the car. "Ow!" He said, then stood up, rubbing his head. "Uh, yeah. My bags are already in the trunk."

"Well, let's get going then." Bran strapped Summer onto the shotgun seat.

"Bro, are you okay?" Rickon asked.

"I'm fine." He lied. "Just get in."

Rickon shrugged. "Alright, geez." He got into the backseat without a word.

They drove to White Harbor in silence. Bran had just turned on the radio creating background noise to cover up the awkwardness.

They arrived at 11am and ate lunch at The Burger Lab branch near the Aquamarine.

Between Bran and his siblings, Rickon has the biggest appetite—even bigger than Arya's—that his typical order is three burgers, each with different toppings. And with extra onions, of course.

That afternoon, Bran accompanied his younger brother to the University of White Harbor and gave him a quick tour. But he had never enrolled him yet because up until then Rickon hadn't decided on what degree program to take.

So by Tuesday, Bran toured Rickon around White Harbor, with their dogs, of course. And then Rickon even insisted on meeting Meera when she got off from work once they got home.

"You do know that I usually walk to see her, right?" Bran said.

"Walk as in strolling?" Rickon asked. "In the streets?"

"Yeah, with Summer." He added.

Rickon frowned at him. "Mom and Dad allowed this?"

"No," Bran shook his head. "And if you tell them, I'll fucking kill you."

Rickon raised his hands in surrender. "I won't, I promise."

"Don't make promises you can't keep, bro."

Bran had texted Meera ahead that he'd be bringing along his brother for dinner, and she agreed.

His younger brother enjoyed walking the streets with him and their dogs. Mostly, because people gave them unusual looks—the Is getting a wolf as a pet even legal? type.

They arrived at The Northern Herald office building and waited outside. Bran knew better than to enter the premises and get into an argument with Tyrek Lannister again—it's not something he's looking forward to and Summer might attack him, so he wasn't taking any chances.

A few minutes after they arrived, Meera walked out of the building's lobby.

"Hey, Branflakes!" Meera squealed as she ran to him and gave him a peck on his cheek.

"Stardust," Bran smiled, then kissed her on her cheek in return. He gestured to his brother. "You remember Rickon, right?"

"Your brother, of course," Meera said. "Hello, Rickon," Then she knelt and scratched Summer's neck, prompting him to bark in excitement and wagged his tail. "Hello, Summer."

Meera turned to Shaggy, holding out her hand. "What's his name?" She asked.

Shaggy nuzzled Meera's hand before licking it and wagged his tail playfully.

"This is Shaggy." Rickon replied.

"Aww," Meera giggled. "Hello, Shaggy."

Rickon frowned. "That's weird, he doesn't usually warm up to people he just met."

"Summer already knew her, bro," Bran explained. "It's probably why."

"So are all your dogs actually siblings?" She asked.

"Yeah, you could say that," Rickon confirmed, turning to Bran. "I mean, they were found together, right?"

"Technically, the term is littermates—" Bran started to say but was interrupted by a shriek.

"Oh, fuck!" Lyra cursed.

They turned and saw Lyra hiding behind Gwyn, using her as a human shield. "You have got to be fucking kidding me. Now, there are two wolves."

"Hello to you too, Lyra." Rickon greeted.

"Stark boys number three and four," Lyra acknowledged. "Of course, you're here with those…wolves."

"They're not wolves." Rickon corrected.

"If we are talking about taxonomy, Baby Stark," Lyra pointed out. "Wolves are of the dog family."

Rickon looked offended. "Why the fuck does everybody call me that?"

Gwyn snorted. "You should see how Lya takes it." She cleared her throat. "Anyways, we have to go. You guys obviously have someplace else to go. We'll leave you to it."

"See you around, Starks, Meera," Lyra waved them goodbye.

Once Gwyn and Lyra left, Rickon turned to them curiously. "So, where are we eating?" He asked.

Bran and Meera exchanged looks before facing him. "The Cornucopia."

Rickon frowned in confusion. "The what-utopia?"

"Cornucopia, bro." Bran corrected.

"It's food park a few blocks from where I live." Meera explained.

"A food park?" Rickon repeated, then squealed. "Yes!"

Meera watched Rickon in amusement as he seemed excited like a seven-year-old kid.

"Rickon has the largest appetite in our family," Bran pointed out. "Him and Arya."

They made their way towards the Cornucopia Food Park. Meera held Summer's leash as they walked.

Rickon had more paper plates of food than both Bran's and Meera's combined. Yep, he's appetite is that huge.

"Your brother is adorable," Meera remarked when she and Bran went to buy drinks, and Rickon was left at their table with Summer and Shaggy.

"He gets excited over the tiniest things, I know," Bran added. "He's ADHD and that itself, explains a lot."

Afterwards, they walked Meera to the Greenwoods before walking back to the Aquamarine.

The following morning, on an unusual snowy Wednesday morning—it's pretty normal to snow in the North even in summer—Rickon walked up to Bran while he was cooking their breakfast.

"Bro, I've been thinking about it all night," Rickon spoke up. "And I wanna be like Mom."

"A doctor?"

Rickon shrugged. "Yeah, so?"

"Rickon, it'll take you eight years to finish." He narrowed his eyes at him. "A pre-med program and then medicine. Are you sure about this?"

"Bran, I'm aware of that." His younger brother insisted. "And I even decided on what pre-med program I'm going to take."

"And?"

"Medical technology,"

Bran opened his mouth to speak up, but Rickon held his hand up.

"Hup, I know what you're going to say," Rickon said. "Medtechs are the ones who test and analyze blood, other body fluids, and tissue samples. And thank the gods I'm not squeamish."

Bran was still having second thoughts. Mostly, because Rickon was ADHD, but he respected his younger brother's decision. And he knew him too well where when he makes a decision, it's final—Rickon probably got that from their Dad.

After they ate their breakfast and freshened up, they drove to the University of White Harbor.

He accompanied Rickon in the enrollment process as well as fixing his class schedule and finding the 'sane' professors that will handle the classes he'll be in. They had finished by that same afternoon and Bran later gave Rickon a tour of the campus again.

"Oh, forget the buildings and whatnot," Rickon said as they strolled across the main quad, eating burritos. "Tell me about the people that roam the place. There are still cliques, right?"

"Yes, of course," Bran confirmed as they sat by one of the tables in the Main Quad. "Like high school, there are cliques. But unlike in high school, there are no rivalries, feuds, or minorities whatsoever. Everyone is equal."

"That's cool." His brother beamed. "How about this? How can you tell if a person walking through campus is a medical student, an engineering student, or an art student?"

"A medical student is easy to spot," Bran pointed out. "Because they're always in white scrubs. Engineering students, they're always bringing a lot of stuff. And art students, well…you'll know one when you see one. They dress…weird."

"Arya doesn't dress weird." Rickon pointed out as he chugged down his first burrito.

"You didn't let me finish," He interrupted. "And/or their hairs are either dyed or highlighted in the wildest colors."

"Oh, there it is," Rickon chuckled. "Arya has blue highlights in her hair." He cleared his throat. "What about other cliques?" He asked.

"The jocks—the athletes," Bran started. "You'll know them immediately, because they wear letterman jackets with the university mascot's logo. Cheerleaders, same thing, also they're in uniform."

"Ooh, do they have tryouts in the football team?" Rickon asked.

"Dude, I thought you're going to focus on schoolwork."

"Right, sorry," Rickon said. "Go on."

"The geeks, you'll find them in the cybercafés or the coffeeshops." Bran continued. "The thespians are of course, in the theater and are obsessed with Godsway musicals. The music dorks are either in a music band or just like singing and there are a lot of cliques depending on the musical genre. The frat guys and sorority girls, also in letterman jackets and uniform t-shirts—they host the best parties on campus and the Greek Row. There's also the emos/punks/goths—most people honestly can't identify which is which so we refer to them as the Men in Black, because, well, they're always wearing black. Then there are the popular ones, which is pretty much self-explanatory. And the nerds, which are often found the library and they're the smartest people ever."

"So, you're a nerd?" Rickon chuckled. "Somehow I'm not surprised."

"Most people say that as well," Bran sighed. "But I don't believe it."

"What about Robb, Sansa, and Arya?" His younger brother asked. "What were they when they were in college?"

"Sansa belongs in the popular clique, obviously," Bran recalled. "Arya is more of a drifter, and I think Robb is the same."

"What's a drifter?"

"Drifters are don't particularly belong in a group," He explained. "They interact with one or more cliques non-exclusively. They're friends with everyone and are well-known rather than popular."

"Stark!" A voice called, making Bran and his brother turn.

They saw a familiar face. Rickon looked away in disdain when the person approached them. Bran recalled seeing him a few times during one of those events their parents forced him and his siblings to attend.

The one who called their attention was a guy with a shaggy, shoulder-length strawberry blond hair with a lean build. And he had a smug expression on his face. Bran instantly didn't like him.

"Stark!" The blond guy nodded at Rickon, then frowned when he saw him as well. "Oh, Starks, then. What's up?"

"Hello, Gryff," Rickon greeted without enthusiasm. "What are you doing here?"

"Oh, I'll be attending classes in the fall here now," Gryff said.

Rickon forced out a smile. "Oh, that's great." He said. "Another familiar face for me to see around the campus."

"Nice!" Gryff beamed. "Anyways, I gotta run. I'm checking out if there are tryouts on the football team. See you guys around." He said before running off across the Main Quad.

As soon as Gryff was out of earshot, Rickon cussed. "Fuck!"

"Who's that guy again?" Bran asked.

"Gryff Whitehill," Rickon informed. "He came into Torrhen Stark Academy after you graduated."

Bran remembered the Whitehills, they're the ruling family of Highpoint—the coldest city in the North, and the highest in terms of altitude. The only person he knew from the clan was Gwyn Whitehill. And he also knew that she had four brothers, but Bran didn't know their names.

"You don't seem to like him."

"Nobody fucking likes him." Rickon blurted out. "Back in high school, he usually acts like he owns the place. He's not nice, at all. And when he is, it's because he wants something."

"His sister, Gwyn seems nice," Bran pointed out.

"Oh, the other Whitehills are nice," His younger brother confirmed. "Everyone but Gryff. He's rude and arrogant." He took a deep breath. "Anyways, enough about him. What time do we leave tomorrow?" He asked.

Bran frowned. "Where are we going tomorrow?" He asked.

Rickon made a face at him like he was an idiot. "Bro, tomorrow is Labor day, which means it's a holiday and we can go back home to Winterfell."

"Oh, right," He said. But he had obviously forgotten about Labor day. "Maybe after lunch."

That night, right before he went to sleep, Bran called Meera.

"Hey, Branflakes," Meera answered from the other line.

"Hey," He greeted. "Um, how's your day?"

"It's fine," She replied. "Oh, by the way, Lyra reminded me about mountain trekking this week. You still game?"

"Of course," Bran said. "I was just about to ask about that. When and where are we going to meet?"

"Friday morning, here in my place," Meera informed. "You can bring Rickon if he wants to come."

"Yeah, about that," He snorted. "The thing is, I didn't tell my Mom and Dad that I'm going hiking with you guys. And if I actually ask permission, they'd never allow it. And if I tell Rickon, well, all the more reason I won't be allowed."

"You can't just leave him there by himself, you know."

"I'm driving him back to Winterfell tomorrow," He said. "Trust me, he's more eager to get home before labor day. I'll drive back to White Harbor, like maybe in the afternoon. And if you're free, we can have dinner."

"Dinner?" She repeated. "You're on! I'll cook for you if you'd like. And you're welcome to stay the night."

"Ooh, you know I love home-cooked meals." He beamed. "But staying overnight? Isn't your brother there?"

"Nope, he moved back home in Greywater after he graduated," She explained. "And if you ask me, it's because he was more eager to use Mom and Dad's graduation present to him."

"What is his graduation present?"

"A greenhouse."

"Ooh, a botanist's dream." He chuckled.

"I know, and also," Meera's voice turned serious. "I wanna show you something."

"What is it?"

"Something I think can give us a lead on why our Dads hate each other."

Bran sat up from his bed. "What do you got?"

"It's better if I just show it," She said. "These are newspaper articles. It contains things that we weren't taught in school about Westerosi Politics. And I also got some tiny information from it about our Dads."

"I'm surprised about it too, you know," He admitted. "But I firmly believe that you and I will be the ones who'll fix the rift—whatever in seven hells this is about."

"I hope so too."

Bran could hear her yawn. "Oh, well, you better get some sleep."

"Good night, Branflakes," Meera said, sleepily.

"Good night, Stardust," He said before hanging up.

I love you, Bran wanted to add but decided against it. And even if he did say it, Meera might not say it back. At least, not yet.

By Thursday, Bran and Rickon drove back home to Winterfell. When they arrived, not one family member was there. They're all probably still at work. Their Dad was at the Capitol, their Mom was at the Northern Doctors Hospital in uptown Winterfell, Robb and Sansa were in Stark Industries, and Arya was at a seminar in Harrenhal.

Perfect! Bran thought. That way no one will chastise him from actually going mountain trekking.

He took essentials he didn't have at the Aquamarine, a tent, a sleeping bag, and a hiking backpack he had used when they went camping in the Wolf Pines back when he was young. The other stuff, he can get in White Harbor like a double bowl feeder for Summer that can store food and water at the same time as well, a flashlight, a small first aid kit, and extra clothes, and of course, the Swiss army knife Jon had given each of them.

Bran took the stuff he needed, placed them in the backseat of his car, before strapping Summer on the shotgun seat.

Rickon caught up to him when he did. "Hey, where are going?" He asked.

"Back to White Harbor," Bran replied.

"But it's the weekend."

"Rickon, Saturday and Sunday are the weekends," He pointed out. "It's only Thursday."

"I know, but tomorrow is Labor Day," Rickon reminded him. "So, it's considered a long weekend. What are you gonna do in White Harbor anyway?"

"I'm gonna…" Bran faltered, thinking hard of an excuse to tell his brother. "Um, I'm gonna help the Mormonts with something." He blurted out as he entered his car and shut the door behind him.

What Rickon didn't know is that Bran was actually gonna go mountain trekking with the Mormonts and Meera up on Mt. Alarra in Highpoint.

But Rickon, in his own stubborn way, came after him and rapped his knuckles on the driver's car window. "Hey!"

He pushed the button to open the window. "What?"

"When are you gonna be back?" He asked.

"On the weekend," Bran promised. "So, you'll have to tell the good news about you in school by yourself."

Rickon shrugged smugly. "Oh, it's not a problem." He assured. "Just bring food when you get back."

Bran snorted. "Of course, Rickon." He said before driving off.

He arrived in the Aquamarine at around 6pm, Bran immediately packed his stuff and he called Meera to tell her that he's on his way.

Bran decided to take a cab to the Greenwood Flats because he won't have a parking space for his car and according to Meera, it's not safe to park in the streets because you'll never know who's gonna smash your windows and grab the valuable stuff in the car. And if he walked the streets, he'll get tired easily because he'll be carrying his backpack and Summer on a leash.

Thankfully, the cabbie allowed for a pet to ride.

As he entered the Greenwood's building, Meera was already waiting for them in the lobby and she fetched them with a smile and a hug. She was in khaki pants, olive green blouse and brown boots, which only meant one thing: she had just got off from work.

"Hey," Meera greeted, then hugged and kissed him. "Dinner's ready." Afterwards, she scratched Summer's neck. "Hello, Summer." She turned back to him. "Let's go."

Meera led them to her place on the sixth floor. "Welcome back." She smiled. "Just place your bag on the couch, remove Summer's leash, and let's dig in."

She gestured for them to follow her to the dining hall. The table was already set and the food was already served.

"Whoa," Bran said. "You really prepared for this."

"Of course, I did," Meera said, matter of factly. "And I even baked some lasagna for Summer. I researched some recipes dogs like best."

"Oh, he'll definitely love that." He guessed. "Summer eats anything edible."

Meera opened all four cloches on the table. "For the appetizers, I loved your dynamite spring rolls, so I sort of, stuck to the same main ingredient: jalapeños." She said. "For the main course, bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin for us meat-lovers; and for dessert, crème caramel."

Bran smiled wide and gave her a full kiss on the lips. Meera is definitely wife material, He thought.

When they let go, she looked surprised. "What was that for?"

"For all these." He said.

Meera chuckled. "How about we just eat?"

"Right, of course."

She had placed the bowl of lasagna on the floor for Summer, to which he munched immediately. And they ate, Meera also told him the details on mountain climbing.

According to her, the Mormonts, Gwyn, and Asher agreed that Meera's flat will be the assembly place and that they should be here by nine in the morning. Gwyn and Asher will be providing their transportation to Highpoint.

"Oh, also," She added. "I didn't tell anyone that you're staying overnight."

"Well, I guess I'll make it look like I arrived very early." He said. "So, what time does Jojen get here?"

Meera shrugged. "I don't know, probably earlier than nine," She replied. "He's very strict when it comes to punctuality."

He had then helped Meera with the dishes before she had packed her own stuff for the hiking trip. But before she did, Meera had handed him an expanded envelope.

"What's this?" He asked.

"A potential clue on why our dads hate each other." She said. "Just give it a read while I pack my stuff for tomorrow, okay?"

"Alright," He said before opening the envelope.

It had six printed news articles from the Northern Herald. And Meera had labeled each numerically with a red marker.

The first one, she labeled: (1) Northern Governor Killed in King's Landing Bombing. It was about how his grandfather, Rickard Stark, his Uncle Brandon, and eight others were killed in a bombing in the capital.

The second article (2) President Targaryen, Alleged Mastermind Behind the Massacre of Wolves, stated that Aerys Targaryen was behind his grandfather and uncle's death, which was confirmed by the strong evidence presented by his own son, Rhaegar Targaryen, and it was also implied that he was dating his Aunt Lyanna.

The third one (3) The Riverlands and Vale Join the North in their Revolt Against the Targaryen Administration, Threats of Civil War engulfs—this article shook him. It wasn't taught to them in history classes at all. He didn't know that the northern half of Westeros almost went to war because of it. And the ones that declared their support were also family, his maternal grandfather, Hoster Tully, who was then Governor of the Riverlands; and his Uncle Jon Arryn, the husband of her Aunt Lysa—his Mom's younger sister.

The fourth article, labeled (4) says, Pres. Aerys Targaryen Impeached and Charged Guilty of Mass Murder, VP Robert Baratheon Inaugurated as New President. This, he knew about because it was taught in school. Aerys Targaryen was impeached and was guilty of orchestrating the Massacre of Wolves, and the inauguration of Robert Baratheon as the new president of the country on the same day. And it was weird seeing a photo of the Baratheon brothers in their youth.

The fifth, labeled (5) Former Pres. Targaryen Assassinated by Rebels on the way to the Wolf's Den Prison. This, he also knew about. Bran remembered when this was the topic in history class. Everyone in class practically loathed the Targaryens until their teacher said Aerys was impeached and charged but was shocked to hear that he was assassinated before he could even be brought to the Wolf's Den. And it was also said that the remaining Targaryens fled the country. What surprised him was that it was implied that Howland Reed—Meera's Dad, was a family friend who has known the Starks for years and he even defended them.

Bran didn't see the connection of all the news articles Meera had printed until he read the last article. Labeled (6) 1 Dead in a Zero-Visibility Blizzard in Moat Cailin. The article was about his Aunt Lyanna, who had died in a car accident in a snowstorm. And it even had a photo of her, which has a frightening resemblance to his sister, Arya. It was said that his Aunt Lyanna drove a car that wasn't even hers but it belonged to a friend, Howland Reed and that she was traveling with her six-month-old son, Aegon. But it wasn't right. His cousin's name was Jon, not Aegon.

After reading Bran carefully placed them back in the envelope. He didn't know what to feel. He learned stuff he wasn't taught in school and he even learned things about his Aunt Lyanna in reading those news articles than information his Dad ever told him and his siblings.

So, it's safe to guess that his Dad blamed Howland Reed for his sister's death, and he changed his cousin's name from Aegon to Jon. His father lost three family members in two years.

But there are still unanswered questions. How come none of those were even mentioned to them by their own father? Why did his Aunt Lyanna come to Howland Reed to borrow his car? What did she want to go to White Harbor for? Why did she bring along baby Jon with her?

He was so deep in thought that he didn't notice Meera carrying out her trekking backpack in the living room and calling his name. She had also changed into a white t-shirt and loose shorts and was also barefoot. And she had a quilt hanging over her shoulder.

"Bran?" She called. "Branflakes, hey!"

It shook him back to reality and he turned to face her.

He noticed her folding the quilt and placed it on the backrest of the couch. "What's with the quilt?"

"It's for Summer," Meera said. "But I don't know where and how he sleeps so," She shrugged.

"It's fine," He sighed. "Normally, he'll sleep by my feet. But in any case, he can sleep anywhere, as long as I assure him."

"So, he's okay with sleeping on the couch then?"

"Yeah, of course," He nodded in agreement. Then his thoughts went back to the news articles he had just read.

"I see that you've read it." She noticed as she folded the quilt on the couch enough for Summer to curl up and get comfortable on it.

Bran shrugged. "I'm still confused, honestly." He admitted. "And I have a lot of questions."

Meera sighed as she sat next to him on the couch. "Me too," She said. "The first article I found was the one I labeled number six. It links to the conversation I overheard my Mom and Dad talked about someone named Lya who died in a car accident in a snowstorm." She explained. "But I found holes in the story. Firstly, why was she using my Dad's car that day? And it even has your cousin's name wrong. And secondly, the last paragraph struck me, why would anyone plot her death? So I dug deeper. And I found those other five news articles, connecting the Starks to the then first family, the Targaryens."

Bran nodded. "Aunt Lyanna dated Rhaegar Targaryen, a president's son." He made a face. "It's a weird coincidence. And this guy could be Jon's father."

"Were you not told about your cousin's father?" She asked.

He shook his head. "Only that he's probably dead. Even Jon wasn't asking questions about his Dad. And I've tried getting some information from my Dad, but nothing. He just gave me the that's a good question for another time bullshit."

"My Dad said the same," She pointed out. "I honestly don't know how to make him talk about that issue. He just evades every question I ask about you Starks."

Bran suddenly took her hand and gently squeezed it. "Look whatever in seven hells is this, and whatever's gonna happen, it's not gonna change how I feel about you." He then kissed her hand.

"Bran—" She started to say.

"I love you, Meera." He blurted out. "If there's anything good this stupid feud ever brought, it's me finding out how I really feel about you." He said. "I know, it's probably too early to say—"

Meera interrupted him by planting a kiss on his lips. And when they broke apart, she smiled at him. "I love you too, Branflakes."

Hearing her say that she loved him back made him wanna scream in delight. He was so happy, he cupped her face and kissed her again. They were giggling when they broke apart.

"Oh, gods," Bran said, smiling. "You have no idea how happy I am." He then stood. "YESSS!" He screamed giddily. "Oh my gods, I love you so much!" He then gave her another quick kiss.

"Whoa! Calm down," Meera scolded. "Our neighbor will think we're having sex. These walls aren't as soundproof as the ones in the Aquamarine." `

"I don't care what people think," He said. "I'm just so happy right now." Then he scooped her up from the couch and carried her in his arms.

"Bran—whoa, what the fuck?" She complained, then giggled. "What are you doing? Put me down."

Bran did as she asked. "Sorry," He was still smiling as he sat beside her on the couch. "Meera, I know the whole thing with our Dads will probably get worse," He said. "But whatever happens, I want you to know that I'll never stop fighting for us." He promised. "For what we have and what we will have."

"We will never stop fighting," She corrected. "I promise that too."

Bran leaned in closer and kissed the top of her forehead.

Suddenly, Summer barked. For a moment, Bran felt horrible as he had forgotten his dog was there with them too. And he was left out.

"Don't worry Summer," He assured. "You're a witness to everything we had just said."

Meera chuckled, then patted the seat next to her. "Come here, buddy."

Summer excitedly jumped to her side, playfully wagging his tail.

"And Summer approves of you as well." He noticed as he wrapped his arm around her.

Meera frowned when he did.

"Oh, sorry," He apologized as he tried to remove his arm from around her shoulder.

But Meera pulled it back. "Bran, it's not the first time you've put your arm around me." She said. "I was just startled, that's all."

"Well, then," He smirked, softly squeezing her shoulder and gave her a peck on her cheek. "We've done more than just hand gestures."

Meera raised an eyebrow. "Are you suggesting what I think you're suggesting?"

"Wait, so…" He smiled. "Are you saying that…" He faltered.

"Well, if you're not starting it, I am." Meera winked at him before surging forward and kissed him.

Bran kissed her back, of course.

Summer seemed to get the idea of what was going on and jumped back down to the floor and on to the armchair.

Meera pushed him back, still kissing him, and began to sit on his lap. It was when she straddled him that he broke apart.

"Meera, I don't think this is a good idea," He said. "We're supposed to be gathering strength and resting because we're climbing a mountain tomorrow."

"Don't worry, Branflakes," She assured, planting soft kisses on his face. "Just sit back and relax."

"Meera—oh, shit!" He yelped as Meera cupped the bulge in his pants and gently massaged it. "Hmm," He moaned. "You're getting persuasive." Then he leaned closer and caught her lips with his.

Her kisses were soft at first, then it got hotter. She had then started grinding on his bulge, making his cock harder.

Bran went down on kissing jaw, then down to her neck before sucking spots on it, making her moan softly.

Meera gripped the hoops of his trousers and grabbed his belt, unbuckled it before reaching into his boxer-shorts, and massaged his hard member.

"Hmm, oh my gods," He whimpered. "Meera…"

She had then removed her hand from his trousers. "Let's move to the bedroom." She said before pulling his hand.

"Okay," Bran replied, then allowed himself to be dragged by Meera to her bedroom, the door adjacent to the bathroom.

Summer started to follow them, but Bran turned back to him.

"Summer, stay." He instructed. "You can sleep on the couch, buddy."

Summer barked, hopefully in agreement, before running back to the living room.

The size of Meera's bedroom is just about the same as his bathroom in Stark Manor. And yes, he considered it a large bathroom for just one person. But then again, that mansion was built way before his Dad was even born.

The full-sized bed was neatly made and placed in the corner of the room on two of its sides. Her desk had a laptop, a penholder, car keys, and her work binder. Above her desk had a corkboard with sticky notes, pinned papers, and Polaroid pictures of her friends and family and a small calendar that had a few dates encircled with a red marker. She also had a bookshelf filled with books, a wardrobe, and a table dresser with a mirror. In other words, her room was clean and orderly.

"Sorry, it's cramped in here." She apologized.

"It isn't, actually," He complimented. "It's quite nice."

"Well, it's not as big as your room in the Aquamarine," She pointed out. "Or probably, your room in your house in Winterfell, but—"

"Shh," Bran interrupted, putting a finger before her lips, hushing her up. "It doesn't matter how big or small a room is. What matters is that you're with me in it." He then surged forward and caught her lips with his.

Meera giggled before pulling up his shirt to remove it. Bran had also slid out of his trousers, dropping them to the floor as he slid his hand inside Meera's t-shirt, gently rubbing her soft skin.

She had then pushed him to the bed and started removing her clothes. She first took off her t-shirt revealing her perky breasts, before moving on to her shorts and panties.

"Damn," He said before he could stop himself.

Thankfully, it only made Meera chuckle and climbed on to the bed on top of him. Bran backup and leaned his back on the bed headboard as she did.

"Just sit back and relax," She whispered before she wrapped her fingers around and began to slowly jerk him.

Bran muttered nonsense as he threw his head back on the bed's headboard. He then reached out and cupped her breasts, making her moan.

"Oh, fuck it!" She cussed, before kissing him again and climbed over him, locking her knees tight to his sides. "Let's get this over with."

Meera settled one hand on his shoulder and used her other hand to position his hardened cock at her entrance, but Bran sat up straight and stopped her.

"Wait, Meera," He said. "We can't—there's a condom in my wallet—"

"Shh," She interrupted, placing a finger before her lips. "Relax, okay?"

"But we can't just—"

"Branflakes, it's okay," Meera assured. "I'm on birth control. And besides, I wanted to feel you bare."

He nodded. "Okay." He said as he leaned back on the headboard as Meera slowly impaled herself on his cock.

Bran moaned as he gripped her hips hard. Then Meera began rolling her hips and rode him. She pulled herself up and dropped back down, making Bran shut his eyes.

Meera wheezed and had her mouth dropped open and as she submitted to the unbearable pleasure. "Oh, Bran…" She moaned. "You feel so good."

Suddenly, Bran sat up and caught her mouth, and not long after, their tongues were exploring each others'. He then moved his hands down to her arse, grabbing and squeezing it firmly and guiding her movements, making his length enter deeper and deeper than the last.

"Bran, hmm." She repeatedly muttered his name.

Bran started thrusting against her, making her shut her eyes and arched her body into the surge.

"Bran, oh my gods." She whimpered, then bit her lip, probably stopping herself from screaming.

He started sucking and biting on her neck again, before going down to her breasts and sucked one of her nipples, making her muffle a scream as she continued riding him.

Then his body became rigid and he stopped thrusting against her. "Meera," He said, gripping her buttcheeks hard. "Meera, I'm gonna cum. I need to pull out."

"Cum in me," She replied, still riding him. "It's fine."

"Meera—oh!" Before he could say anything else, he spurted his seed into her.

Meera slumped on top of him. "Bran, you feel so fucking good." She giggled, then gave him a kiss before pulling out of him. She examined her cunt and noticed some of his seed sipping from it.

"Wow, that's a lot." She said, then reached for the drawer of her nightstand and pulled out a pack of wet wipes. Meera took one and wiped her cunt before throwing off the used wet wipes on the bin near the nightstand.

Bran lowered himself and wrapped an arm around Meera's waist and planted a peck on her cheek.

"You've worn me out, Branflakes," She snickered and she turned to face him and used his arm as a pillow. "That was some extreme workout."

"Hey, you asked for this." He pointed out. "And for some reason, I couldn't resist the urge to give you what you want."

It took him a few seconds to realize that Meera had already fallen asleep in his arms.

Bran snorted, then kissed her temple. "Good night, my Stardust."

. . .

The following morning, Bran woke up to a gentle kiss on his forehead. He groggily opened his eyes to see Meera sitting up, covering her chest with the comforter.

"Good morning," Bran said as he stretched.

Meera turned and smiled at him. "Hey, good morning," She said. "Now, that you're awake, get up and hit the shower."

Bran sat up and frowned. "What?" He asked as if he'd misheard her.

"Bran, I thought you're gonna make it look like you've arrived very early."

"Oh, right," He threw the covers over and bent down to pick up his clothes on the floor.

But as he was about to fix the bed, Meera waved him off. "Just go already," She insisted. "I'll take care of this. If Jojen gets here and catches us, we're both dead. Oh, and you can use my towel on the rack."

"Okay," Bran agreed, then went for the door. "But I'll check on Summer first."

He got out of Meera's room and peeked towards the living room.

Bran had to smile seeing Summer curled up on the folded quilt on the couch, sleeping soundly. And then he could hear his brother, Robb's baby voice in his thoughts saying, Aww, he's so cute. Who's my best buddy? Yes, you are.

Not wanting to disturb his dog's comfy slumber, Bran went for the bathroom to shower. Afterwards, he had Meera's towel wrapped around his waist before stepping out.

Bran could already smell eggs and bacon cooking. "That smells good." He said as he walked towards the living room. "Do you need help?" He asked.

Meera was in the kitchen, in a bathrobe and her curly hair in tangles. But regardless, she still looked beautiful.

"No, I'm good," She assured. "Now, put on some clothes before Jojen gets here."

"Yes, ma'am," He said.

"And put your used clothes in the hamper," She added. "I'll put those in the washer later."

"No, it's fine—" He started to say.

"Bran, those are just extra kilos you're putting on your trekking bag," Meera pointed out. "I'm actually doing you a favor here. And besides, It'll count as a souvenir for the trip."

He made a face at her.

She snorted. "I'm kidding. You'll have it back, I swear. But for now, just please do what I say?"

He raised his hands in surrender. "Alright," He had then pulled out his extra clothes from his trekking bag and went back to the bathroom to change.

By the time he got out, Meera had already placed their breakfast on the dining table.

"Breakfast!" She announced, then she placed a bowl of scrambled eggs and chopped bacon on the floor for Summer, which made Summer ran towards it and ate the food immediately.

"Ooh, that looks and smells good," Bran said as he sat down by the dining table.

Meera had then brought two mugs from the kitchen and placed them on the table. "Here's your tea." She said as she sat down on her seat. "It's Wildberries Fusion. It's what Jojen prefers, hope it's okay."

Bran sipped tea from his mug. "Hmm, it's actually better than what I usually drink."

As they ate, Bran found himself staring at her. He was suddenly imagining himself in the future. Married to her, eating meals and doing stuff together.

Of course, Meera noticed him. And he's probably smiling like an idiot.

"What?" Meera frowned at him.

Bran shook his head, then look away. "Nothing, it's just…it's our second breakfast date together. The first time was—"

"I know, I fell asleep on your couch," She recalled. "When I woke up, it was morning, I remember. That was very spontaneous, I have to say. But I'm glad it happened."

Bran helped her with the dishes after they ate. Afterwards, she had then had him sit on the couch and watch TV while they wait for the others to arrive. She had also taken the quilt from the couch and back to her room.

Sure enough, just as his wristwatch beeped, saying it's seven in the morning, the flat door opened and Jojen entered in a jacket and a trekking backpack. Meera was right, her brother did arrive early.

"Oh, fuck!" Jojen nearly jumped back when he saw him on the couch. He took a deep breath before speaking to him. "Hey," He nodded at him.

"Hi," Bran greeted, not knowing what else to do.

"You're early," Jojen declared. "What time did you arrive?"

"Oh, just thirty minutes ago," He lied.

Jojen was about to ask more questions when Summer approached him and got him distracted.

"Hi, boy," Jojen knelt, putting his trekking backpack on the couch next to Bran.

Summer approached Jojen and wagged his tail and allowed himself to be scratched on his neck.

Jojen turned back to Bran. "He's coming with us, right?" He asked.

"Yeah, he is," Bran confirmed.

Then Jojen used a baby voice while petting Summer. Bran was somehow not surprised, as Jojen did it the first time he met Summer.

"Branflakes, here's—" Meera came to the living room, carrying a handful of Cheetos, but stopped at her tracks when she saw her brother sitting on the floor, petting Summer. "Oh, you're here. You came earlier than expected."

"Hello to you too, sis," Jojen said. "How are you still not ready?"

Meera rolled her eyes at her brother. "Little brother, it's only—" She turned to Bran. "What time is it?" She asked.

"Seven." He replied.

She turned back to her brother. "It's only seven, and our ride will be here at nine. So, I have two hours to get ready."

"Mm-hmm," Jojen said. "Have you watered my plants already?"

"Not yet, but—"

"I'll do it." Jojen interrupted. "Just go get ready. Oh, by the way, where did you put the ADIS watering spikes?"

"Second drawer to the left from the sink." She answered as she entered the bathroom.

As Jojen rummage through the kitchen, Bran remained seated on the couch. But he felt awkward, not doing anything when everyone else is busy.

"Hey, Jojen," He spoke up, turning his head to Jojen's direction. "Um, do you need help?"

"No, no, I'm good," Jojen replied. "You're our guest, just make yourself comfortable."

"I feel weird not doing anything," He admitted.

"Really?" He frowned. "Aren't you the Governor's son? Don't you have people who'll do stuff for you?"

"Yeah, but my Dad says that I shouldn't always rely on other people if I could do stuff myself."

Jojen gave a half-hearted smile. "Hmm, and here I thought you were some spoiled rich boy."

Bran's eyes widened. "What? Do I really give off that vibe?"

Jojen shook his head. "Surprisingly, no," He admitted. "But when I heard your last name, I sort of, thought that you were like that. But I was wrong, you're nothing like I expected." Then he smiled. "I'm glad my sister met you."

"You guys talking about me?" Meera spoke up.

They both turned and saw Meera in a different bathrobe and her towel wrapped around her hair like a turban.

"Uh, no," Jojen answered. "Not everything is about you."

Meera frowned. "What in seven hells are you talking about? I'm just checking in on Bran."

Bran smiled at her. "I'm fine," He said. "I just had a little talk with your brother."

"He didn't threaten you or anything, right?"

"Meera, what the fuck?" Jojen snapped. "I'm not like one of those types who threaten the boyfriend/girlfriend of their sibling."

"Okay," Meera shrugged. "Oh, by the way, if the Mormonts arrive, just let them in." She said before going to her bedroom to change.

Bran continued with his conversation with Jojen, still trying to find more common ground with his girlfriend's brother while he tries to find whatever he needs in the kitchen. And he was surprised to see that Jojen was like him, introverted, socially-awkward, and is smarter than most people think. Even Summer seemed to like him too, as he occasionally went to Jojen when he was watering the plants from the balcony.

At around eight in the morning, a series of knocks came from the flat's main door.

"Reed!" They could hear Lyra Mormont's voice on the other side. "Open up!"

"Oh, the Mormonts are here," Jojen announced.

"I'll get it." Bran volunteered, then went for the door.

He opened the door and sisters, Lyra and Lyanna invited themselves into the flat.

"Hey, Bran," Lyanna greeted.

"What's up, Stark boy number three," Lyra nodded in acknowledgment.

Lyra and Lyanna were already dressed for hiking. Well, sort of, except they hadn't worn their jackets yet. They placed their trekking bags on the floor right by his, Meera's, and Jojen's on the couch.

"Where are the Reeds?" Lyra asked as she sat on the other couch.

"Right here," Jojen snorted as he entered back from the balcony, with Summer following after him. "Hello, Mormonts."

Summer approached them as he usually likes saying hi to 'hoomans'.

Lyanna grinned when she saw Summer and practically spread her arms open to hug him. "Oh my gods!" She squealed. "Hello, Summer!"

Lyra, on the other hand, turned pale and raised her feet on the couch's armrest. "Oh, fuck no!" She cursed. "Please tell me that thing isn't coming with us."

"He is," Bran confirmed.

"Really?" Lya beamed, then sat on the floor, petting Summer. "Oh, that's even better." She began scratching Summer's neck. "It's great having a cuddly buddy with you and protector as well." And then Lya's baby voice begun. "Who's a cuddly buddy? Yes, you are!"

Lya looked at her sister in disgust. "Lya, what the fuck?"

Bran only had to laugh at Lyra's reaction to Lyanna playing with Summer.

"Seriously, Lyra," Jojen spoke up, slightly giggling. "How are you not falling for its cuteness?"

"Dude," Lyra snapped. "It's not cute. That's practically a wolf." She argued.

"Lyra," Bran chuckled. "How many times do I have to tell you? Summer and his littermates are not wolves but a mixed breed of large dogs."

"Wait," Jojen interrupted, placing his watering can on the kitchen counter and turned to Bran. "Summer and his littermates?" He repeated. "You mean, there's more of them?"

"You said it, Jojen," Lya confirmed. "There's like six of them. They're a whole pack."

Jojen's eyes widened. "Whoa!" He exclaimed. "Your house must be dog heaven."

Bran snorted. "You can say that."

"It's hell," Lyra declared.

Lyanna gave her sister an annoyed expression. "Sis, you're a total vibe killer," She gently patted Summer's head. "Hey, Summer, maybe you can give Lyra hell!" She then gestured for him to approach Lyra.

Thanks to Jon training the dogs at Castle Black, Summer and his littermates tend listen to commands given to them. So, as expected, he approached Lyra.

"Oh, fuck, no!" Lyra removed her hiking boots and stood on the couch's cushions. "Lya, what the fuck!"

"Go get her, Summer!" Lyanna ordered.

Summer was playfully wagging his tail, trying to get to Lyra on the couch.

"Lya, I'm gonna fucking kill you!" Lyra threatened as she desperately tried to shoo Summer away from her. "Go away, wolf! Lya!"

"This is gold," Lyanna chuckled, then pulled out her phone and started video-recording her sister. "I'm sending this to Jory."

Jojen was laughing his arse off in the kitchen. "Go, Summer!" He cheered.

Lyra had tried to throw a pillow at Summer, but he started barking, making Lyra even more scared. She turned to Bran. "Stark, do something, please!"

At that same moment, Meera got out of her room. She was already dressed up but still had a towel on her head.

"What is this commotion about?" She demanded.

"Meera, oh my gods!" Lyra exclaimed. "Please, help me." She pleaded.

Meera turned to them. "Guys, come on," She said, then turned to Bran. "Branflakes."

Bran sighed. "Summer, heel." He commanded.

Summer obliged, then ran to his side and rested his head on Bran's knee.

"Thank you," Lyra said, sighing in relief. Then she frowned. "How are you still not ready?"

Meera narrowed her eyes at her. "I'm already dressed," She insisted. "I just need to dry my hair."

"I'm coming with you," Lyra said, then jumped from the couch and ran towards Meera's room.

As Lyra went with Meera back to her bedroom, Jojen went back to his plants. Lyanna, who probably got bored, joined him.

"Wow," Lyanna said. "Very organized with the labels and all. And are those their actual scientific names?" She asked.

"Uh, yeah," Jojen explained. "That way, it helps me with school work as well, because it counts as studying when I water the plants."

Lyanna bent over and read the label on the plant on the bottom row three-tier wooden pot plant stand. "Mandrake, Mandragora officinarum " She read. "Holy crap, these plants actually exist? I thought those were made up for Harry Potter."

"Nope, the ones in Harry Potter are based on the real Mandrakes." Jojen informed.

Lya seemed unconvinced.

"Lya," Bran spoke up. "You won't hear baby cries when you pull it out from the pot, by the way."

"Do I look that stupid?" Lya glared at him, then turned to Jojen. "I just don't understand how it's linked to witchcraft."

Bran nodded at Jojen. "Dude, you take this one."

Jojen chuckled. "It was linked to witchcraft because of its hallucinogenic and narcotic properties. Particularly, because it induces a state of unconsciousness. And most people assumed it's an ingredient to make poison."

"More so than nightshade berries?" Lya asked.

"Apparently, yes," Jojen confirmed. "But a lot of people don't know that. The Mandrake is widely used for medicinal purposes. It even used as anesthesia for surgery in ancient times."

"Oh, cool!" Lya beamed. "So, what else do you grow here?" She started reading the labels of the other plants on the tier stand. "Don't tell me you have a Valerian plant as well."

"I do, actually," Jojen said, matter of factly, pointing at a pot on the far right of the top row. "Right there."

"Valerian, Valeriana officinalis," Lya read. "Oh, wow. Do you have onions and garlic as well?" She asked.

"Yes, I do," Jojen replied. "It's just not here. I brought it home to Greywater." He said. "I still have to bring these back home, but I'm leaving behind the herbs Meera will use for cooking."

"Hmm, so what are those things you're putting on the pots?" Lya asked.

"Uh, these are watering spikes," Jojen explained. "Because, well, we won't be back until tomorrow and no one will be here to water the plants. So these will do the trick."

"Can I help?" Lya suggested.

Jojen hesitated. "Um," He started to say.

"Come on," Lya pleaded. "It might be a while before Gwyn and Asher get here. Might as well have something to do to pass time, and also for the job to get done faster."

"I guess," Jojen shrugged.

"Just tell me what I need to do," Lya said.

Jojen had then instructed Lya to assist him in placing watering spikes on the potted plants.

Bran watched them both in amusement, while petting Summer, to the point where he didn't notice Meera and Lyra (carefully not getting near Summer) coming out of the bedroom and were suddenly with him in the living room, also watching what he was watching.

"Dude," Lyra spoke. "I ship it."

Meera looked confused. "What in seven hells is going on?"

"Oh, Lya offered to help with the watering spikes," Bran explained. "And Jojen agreed."

"That's weird," Meera said, raising an eyebrow. "Jojen never even lets me touch those things. And now suddenly, Lya's an exception."

"Even better," Lyra smirked, then took out her phone and took a snapshot of Jojen and Lyanna tending to the plants. "I'm so telling Jory about this."

Suddenly, both Jojen and Lyanna turned to them.

"Tell Jory about what, Lyra?" Lya asked.

"Oh, nothing," Lyra said. "Don't worry about it, baby sis."

Meera turned to Lyra. "By the way, where is Jorelle?" She asked. "I thought she wanted to come with us."

"Jory is in Harrenhal," Lyra replied.

"With Arya," Bran added.

"Yes," Lyra agreed. "On some seminar to earn CPD credits. But don't worry, we'll see each other tomorrow."

"We'll be in Mt. Alarra and Jory's in Harrenhal," Bran pointed out. "How will we see each other tomorrow?"

"Stark, relax," Lyra said. "The seminar ended yesterday. Jory's probably on her way back North. And then she and her colleagues will be on a team-building exercise trekking Mt. Alarra tomorrow."

"Oh, nice." Meera then frowned turning to Bran. "Wait, if your sister is with Jory then—"

"Arya isn't an employee of Stormbreaker Telecom," Bran reminded her. "So I doubt she'll be there. I wouldn't worry about it."

And then the doorbell audio intercom buzzed, which meant their ride had arrived.

"I'll get it," Lyra volunteered as she ran to the audio intercom by the main door. She pressed a button and leaned closer. "Gwyn, Asher," She called. "It better be you guys."

"Hello to you too, Lyra," Gwyn's voice answered back. "Can we come in?"

"Hurry up!" Lyra removed her hand from the intercom and turned to them. "They're here."

A minute later, a knock came and Lyra opened the door. Gwyn and Asher came in.

"Hi guys," Gwyn greeted them cheerfully. Then she knelt and gently patted Summer's head. "Hello, Summer." She then narrowed her eyes and searched the place. "I thought you said everyone's here. Where's Jojen and Lya?" She asked.

"Babe," Asher called. "They're over there." He said, pointing at the balcony.

They all turned to see Jojen and Lyanna smiling and laughing together.

"Oh my gods!" Gwyn squealed. "Are you guys seeing what I'm seeing?"

"We're not blind, Gwyn," Lyra said.

"You know what?" Meera spoke up. "I think I ship it too." She declared.

Lyra gave her a high five. "Nice!"

"Um, hello?" Gwyn raised her voice to for Jojen and Lyanna to hear.

Finally, Lya noticed and hugged Gwyn. "Gwyn, hey!"

"You had me nervous for a while there, baby bear," Gwyn said as she returned the same hug, then gave Jojen as fist bump. "Hey, Captain Planet."

"Captain Planet?" Lya repeated.

"It's what she calls me," Jojen explained. "Because of my plants."

Gwyn cleared her throat. "Anyways, guys," She said. "Our ride is waiting downstairs, and we have to go so we can arrive at Highpoint just in time for lunch."

"Hells, yeah!" Lyra cried, grabbing her trekking backpack. "Let's go."

As it turned out, Gwyn never really hired a van service. She had just made a simple phone call to her Dad and he sent their family chauffeur, Harys, and a white van.

They all got in and they drove off. But at around eleven most of them were already feeling hungry, so they had to stop at Winterfell for lunch.

"So," Gwyn spoke up. "Where are we eating?"

Everyone's eyes turned to Bran.

"Why are you all looking at me?" He asked.

"Stark, this is your hometown," Lya pointed out. "You should be the one suggesting where we would eat. Oh, wait! Do you still have that VIP card, right?" She asked.

"Of course," Bran said. "It's always in my wallet."

"Well, then—"

"Lya," Lyra interrupted. "If you're gonna say the CARNEval, I swear to the gods! I'll fucking climb a mountain first before I get raw meat that I have to cook by myself."

"The Burger Lab, then?" Lya suggested.

"That's fine," Bran said. "But I would suggest a branch away from Stark Industries and the Capitol because if any of my siblings or our staff, or worse, my Mom and Dad, sees me, I'm dead. I never told anyone at home that I'm going mountain trekking."

Asher, who was sitting next to Gwyn on the row behind the driver, turned to him in surprise. "Are you serious?"

"Dead serious, man," Bran said. "My Mom wouldn't allow it."

"Um," Meera spoke up. "Maybe we should just come up with a disguise for you, so you won't be recognized."

"Oh, you can wear my extra pair of reading glasses," Jojen brought up. "Its grade is just 0.25, so it won't give you a headache."

"That'll work," Asher agreed. "And I'll lend you one of my beanies."

"Boom!" Lyra said. "Problem solved. Now let's get out of here, I'm starving."

Harys had parked the van and they all got out and ate on The Burger Lab, in a branch on Winterfell's midtown district.

Bran considered it a smart choice because it's nowhere near the Capitol or Stark Industries, which are located on the uptown district.

Thankfully, The Burger Lab was a pet-friendly fast-casual restaurant chain so Summer was allowed inside. And as for Bran, he actually wore Jojen's glasses and Asher's beanie just so no one would recognize him.

"Why would anyone recognize him?" Gwyn asked.

Lyra snorted. "Oh, no, he's just a normal guy—HELLO?" She said, mockingly. "He's a fucking Stark of Winterfell!" She blurted out. "Of course, someone might recognize him."

They sat at the table and ordered their meals. Bran had his usual, the Chemical Explosion Burger, of course with extra onions and bacon, and with onion rings on the side with a spicy dip. He also ordered a pan of nacho fries for all of them and chicken nuggets for Summer.

"Oh, crap!" Bran cussed. "I totally forgot about Jojen being vegan. Sorry, man."

Jojen snorted. "It's fine, dude." He assured. "I eat the fries, just not the ground meat."

Then Summer started barking excitedly from his dog seat.

"What is it now, Summer?" Bran asked.

"Uh, oh, I think I know why." Lya suddenly blurted out, nearly choking out on her burger. "Guys, we have a problem."

"What kind of problem, baby bear?" Gwyn asked.

"If Bran doesn't want to be seen," Lya informed. "It's gonna be a big problem because I see the Stark wolf pup at ten o'clock."

They all turned to see what Lya meant, and Bran's eyes widened in surprise. What in seven hells is he doing here? He mentally screamed.

Bran saw his younger brother, Rickon with his dog, Shaggy (of course, they were inseparable just like himself and Summer), and also with him were their chauffeur, Hullen, and their head of security, Jory Cassel.

He found it odd because Jory Cassel was always with his Dad, Ned Stark's entourage. But just as he thought about it, his Dad walked in, making Bran duck and hide.

"Oh my gods, it just took a turn," Lyra said. "Papa wolf is here too."

"Fuck, I need to get out of here." Bran declared, then glanced back at his brother and father from the restaurant doors, who were led by restaurant staff to an isolated glass-partitioned room where children's parties were booked to be celebrated.

Bran pulled out his VIP card and a one-hundred-gold dragon bill from his wallet and placed it on the table. "Just take care of it, I will be outside by the van." He said as he got Summer down from the dog seat and clipped the leash on his harness.

"I'm coming with you," Meera volunteered, then turned to the others. "Just please take care of it, you guys."

Thankfully, The Burger Lab branch they had eaten in had two main doors, so Bran and Meera went out the other one and headed to the van with Summer.

"Branflakes," Meera spoke up. "I know you don't wanna be caught, but it seemed like it's more than that."

"Meera—" He started to say.

"Do you think I never saw the expression on your face when you saw your Dad walk in?" She pointed out. "You looked like you wanted to punch him."

Bran sighed. "I'm sorry about that." He said. "It's just…um, remember when I told you about when I asked my Dad what the rift was between him and your Dad and he just gave me the that's a good question for another time bullshit?"

"You told me that last night."

"Well, it's actually my last conversation with him," He admitted. "Last Monday, before I helped Rickon with the requirements for enrollment. I left home angry."

"Bran," Meera said, gently grasping his arms. "You shouldn't be angry at your Dad."

"I just wanted him to know that happened with them back then is affecting us right now," Bran recalled. "And I get the most cliché answer ever."

"Look, it's obvious that we'll have to do some adjustments," Meera shrugged. "But we'll get to the bottom and fix it."

"I believe we will," Bran nodded. "It's just…I don't want it to go to a point where our families make us choose."

"Let's hope it won't get to that."

Bran caressed her cheek. "I love you so much."

She smiled. "I love you too."

Then he kissed her, right there in the middle of the parking lot.

They were laughing when they broke apart.

"It's weird that you always knew how to calm me down." Bran said.

Meera smirked. "Well, I believe it's now one of my talents." She fixed his glasses, the ones Jojen handed to him. "And honestly, with this disguise, you look like a programmer ready to hack into some classified government database."

Bran was so focused on Meera, that he didn't notice their other companions approaching them near the van.

Jojen cleared his throat. "Sorry to interrupt your moment, lovebirds," He said. "But we need to go."

"Oh, and if you're gonna ask," Lya spoke up. "No, your brother and father did not see us."

"Oh, and," Jojen added, handing Bran his VIP card and forty-three gold dragons. "Here's your VIP card and the change. You basically paid for our entire meal."

"Dude, don't worry," Asher interjected. "We'll pay you back."

Bran took back his VIP card and the change. "Don't sweat it, guys," He assured. "We're in Winterfell. This is my home turf, so just consider that meal as my treat." He then returned the stuff he borrowed for his disguise.

The route they used to get to Highpoint was through the Howling Road, with its official name being Rickard's Road after Bran's grandfather, Rickard Stark, who had it constructed years ago. It was called the Howling Road because travelers who pass the road often hear wolves howling. It's also one of the major access roads with the shortest route to the highland city.

The city of Highpoint is sitting on a plateau hill on the southern edge of the Kings of Winter or the Northern Mountain range. Located at about two thousand meters above sea level.

Only then did Bran realize something. "Hey guys, if Highpoint is at the southern tip of the Kings of Winter, and we're hiking up to Mt. Alarra from Highpoint, isn't it sort of, cheating?" He asked.

"Technically, yes," Gwyn confirmed. "From riding to Highpoint we're already halfway up to Mt. Alarra. But you know, no really cared about that. And it just made people firmly say that they actually climbed a mountain."

The entrance to Highpoint from the Howling Road had a massive wolf's head carved on into part of its granite face of the hill. The Wolf's Head, Bran remembered, was a landmark and monument to his grandfather, who was killed in King's Landing long before he was born.

And the Mormonts insisted that they stop at the Wolf's Head for pictures.

The ride up to Highpoint has picturesque views of the snowcapped mountains of the Kings of Winter, the lush vegetation and pine trees of the Wolf Pines National Park (Which is located just below in the lowlands.

Gwyn and Asher were their sort of, unpaid tour guides.

"To your right," Gwyn said. "You see Ironrath, the town in the middle of the woods, as people would say."

"And, my hometown." Asher added, then pointed to the left. "To your far right, just by the shores of the Bay if Ice is Deepwood Motte. To your far left, is the metropolis capital of the North region, Winterfell. Below us is the Wolf Pines National Park and—"

"Holy shit!" Bran exclaimed. "I can see our house from here."

He couldn't believe it. Stark Manor is actually visible from the Wolf's Head in Highpoint. Well, not really, it's just a tiny white spot, and it's covered by a few tall pine trees, but still.

"What?" All the others, except Gwyn and Asher, cried in disbelief.

"Dude," Asher continued. "I was just about to point that out. You can see Stark Manor from here, though it's not really visible in the morning than it is at night, because of the lighting."

Lyra and Lya took more pictures with their camera as Jojen turned to him.

"Your house has a name?" Jojen frowned. "I mean, I know it's the ancestral home of your family for countless generations, but is that really still a thing?"

"In this century, not anymore, little brother," Meera confirmed. "Unless it's a commercial building or a block of flats."

"Wait, if your house is centuries old," Gwyn spoke up. "It must be haunted, right?"

"Um, not that I know of," He admitted. "Plus, it's been renovated, retrofitted, and refurbished multiple times so…yeah."

"Aren't those three words the same?" Asher asked.

"No, they are not," Gwyn said.

"Yep, we would know," Meera added. "We're journalists."

Bran then took a closer look at the Wolf's Head and noticed that there's a plaque on its pedestal.

The contents of the plaque said:

The Wolf's Head was carved into the face of the hill in protest for the deaths of ten Northmen during the King's Landing Bombing of 282 A.C. or famously known as the 'Massacre of Wolves'. Their deaths fanned flames of rage across the entire Northern region and almost led to a civil war until the person behind the bombing was rightfully sent to prison.

Now, it stands as a monument symbolizing the justice these ten victims had attained:

Rickard Stark Brandon Stark

Martyn Cassel Willam Dustin

Ethan Glover Theo Wull

Mark Ryswell Kyle Royce

Elbert Arryn Jeffory Mallister

Meera frowned at the plaque. "It's kinda weird that I see your name on it."

"That's my Uncle Brandon," Bran explained. "My Dad's older brother, I was only named after him."

"Hey, I was wondering," She said. "Why wasn't your older brother named after him? I mean, he was born like around that time."

Bran shrugged. "My Mom said she was still pregnant with Robb when my grandfather and uncle were killed. But my parents didn't name him after them because they've already decided on Robb's name." He explained. "So, they vowed to name their second-born after Uncle Brandon, hence, me. And according to my Uncle Benjen, Rickon's name is a combination of Rickard and Brandon."

"Okay," Lyra called as she walked towards them. "I'm done taking pictures, let's go."

They went back in the van and drove into Highpoint proper then through an entrance arch that said, Kings of Winter National Park and Preserve.

They reached the parking lot, which had about four cars parked. Not far from the parking lot, there's a small wooden cabin labeled, Park Rangers' Station.

There was also a large map and trailhead signs, to which the Mormonts had already taken a picture of, in case if they got lost.

A man in a park ranger uniform approached them. He was similarly dressed in their usual khaki outfit. But he had a sweater and a jacket over his collared polo shirt. He wore trousers instead of shorts and winter boots, despite being summer; and he also had a scarf around his neck. And obviously, their uniforms were modified because of Highpoint's colder climate.

"Hello friends," The park ranger greeted. "Welcome to the Kings of Winter National Park and Preserve, here at Highpoint."

As far as Bran can recall, there are three other entrances to the Kings of Winter National Park and Preserve. One is in the city of the Last Hearth, one is in the town of Long Lake just North of Winterfell, and the other is in the Gift.

It was Gwyn and Asher who were mostly the ones talking to the park ranger before they were asked to ride one of those electric shuttle carts.

At first, Summer seemed too scared to get into the shuttle cart. So Bran had to carry him, which got him a lot of awws from the people present.

The park ranger told the driver, "Take these hikers to the Mt. Alarra Camp 3," He said, then turned to them. "Bryce here, will take you to your next destination."

As they rode, they saw other people doing their thing, either families and friends camping in the wilderness or co-workers doing team-building trust exercises.

"That looks fun," Bran spoke up.

"Seven hells, yeah it does, Stark!" Asher agreed. "But you know, we'll only gonna do the whole camping thing after we climb Mt. Alarra."

They hop off at someplace with a trailhead sign that said, Mt. Alarra Camp 3. And a smaller version of the wooden cabin similar to that of the park ranger's station.

Another park ranger came to greet them, a woman this time. "Hello, hikers," She greeted. "My name is Alyssa, but you can call me Aly. Welcome to Mt. Alarra's Camp 3. It's named such because we are currently standing midway from the foot mountain to its summit."

"Okay, since I just saw you riding the shuttle," The park ranger, Aly pointed out. "I take it that you entered the park from Highpoint."

"Yes, we did," Gwyn confirmed. "It's easier and I'm a local."

"Well, anyway," Aly continued. "There are six camps from the foot to the summit. And we're on camp three. So, halfway there. And in each hike, it's mandatory that we assign a guide."

A guy came out from the cabin. He was all dressed up for a hike, carrying a hiking stick and nothing else but a sling shoulder bag with a bottled water on it.

"I'll take it from here, Aly," Their guide said, before flashing them with a smile. "Hello, hikers. My name is Gilwood and I will be your guide to the summit. And—" He faltered then frowned at Gwyn. "Gwyn?"

Gwyn looked confused at first, then her jaw dropped. "Oh my gods!" She squealed. "Gilwood, it's been a long time." She said as she gave their guide a hug.

"Uh, babe," Asher interrupted. "You know this guy?"

"Yeah," Gwyn replied. "He's a friend from high school. Oh, by the way," She introduced them to their guide. "This is my boyfriend, Asher Forrester, and our friends," Then she gestured to the others. "That's Lyra and Lyanna Mormont, Meera and Jojen Reed, and Bran Stark. And the dog is Summer."

"Holy crap," Gilwood said in awe. "Who knew your friends have big names. And is it legal to adopt a wolf?"

"Technically, Summer's not a wolf," Bran explained. "He's just a mixed breed of large dogs."

"Big?" Lyra repeated. "Did you really have to use that word?"

"The Mormonts produces electric power through the entire North," Gilwood recalled. "The Reeds had the only berries plantation in Westeros and the Starks, well, they are the North." He turned to Bran. "And if I'm not mistaken, you're probably related to Ned Stark."

"Dude," Jojen interjected. "Ned Stark is his Dad."

Gilwood's eyes widened, then cleared his throat. "Okay, um, maybe should start hiking." He said. "Anyways, the average time hike from the foot of the mountain to the summit is six hours. But since we're already in Camp 3, it's just a three-hour hike to the summit."

"How many camps do we have to pass?" Lya asked.

"There are six camps from the base to the summit," Gilwood explained. "We're already at Camp 3, which means there are three more. These camps are rest stops for hikers. There's a store if they need food and water, extra t-shirts and jackets, whatever you need. A restroom for potty breaks and each camp also has an assigned Advanced Paramedic for health emergencies."

"Now, when you go hiking," Gilwood continued. "You have to be alert at all times and be careful. Because there are times that the paths are narrow and right beside a cliff. As for flora and fauna, there's not much of that here except for a few pines trees and it's just foggy when it's colder than normal. I mean it's always cold, but the temperature usually varies in the time of day. Afternoon hikes are better than morning hikes. Well, at least, in the North because there isn't much sun here."

"What's wrong with morning hikes?" Meera asked.

"There's usually fog along the trail," Gilwood replied. "And most recoded accidents that have happened here were on morning hikes. Caused by the fog blocking their way or the cold temp."

Before they started hiking, they were asked to sign a waiver. It had something about the Kings of Winter National Park and Preserve is not responsible for any deaths or something.

It was around 2pm when they started hiking from Camp 3 up to the summit. The path to Camp 4 to Camp 5 was particularly dangerous, it had the narrowest path and there are times that it was beside a cliff. In fact, Lyanna had a misstep and almost fell into the chasm. But luckily for all of them, Jojen was able to grab hold of her.

"Seven fucking hells, Lya," Lyra said, hugging her younger sister tight. "You need to be careful. I'm not ready to lose a sister and especially not to a fucking mountain."

"Hey, Gilwood," Lyra called as they went back to hiking. "Did you guys have casualties in hiking?"

"For the last twenty years, we've had twenty-seven casualties," Gilwood informed. "Twenty major and minor injuries and seven deaths. Twelve of those were either cuts, scrapes, or bruises, the other eight were hypothermia and frostbites. As for the deaths, hypothermia or they have fallen off the cliff. And those records are only on Mt. Alarra. There are more on the other mountains in the Kings of Winter, especially on Brandon's Peak." He explained. "They even have a zone called the Iridescent Valley, because of the colorful jackets and hiking equipment of those who died."

After that incident, Meera had made sure Jojen was close to her, especially since the dropping temperatures kept fogging up her brother's eyeglasses. As for Bran, his hands were already full. He has one hand on Summer's leash and the other holding Meera's hand.

"What did they do with the bodies?" Bran asked. "I mean if they died while hiking, do they get the bodies or...?"

"That depends on the victims' families," Gilwood replied. "The ones who died of hypothermia here on Mt. Alarra, had died on the summit camp. They mostly ask to take the body back to Camp 3, and from Highpoint, back to their families. But it costs a fortune to do that, and the ones assigned to remove the bodies are also exposed to fatalities. They could die from trying to recover a body too. As for the ones on Brandon's Peak, most of the bodies were just left there in the Iridescent Valley."

Meera cringed. "That's a pretty ironic name for piles of dead and frozen bodies."

It was around 5pm when they reached the summit Camp. The wooden cabin at the summit was called Summit Six. It was the only thing with electricity up there and they were allowed to rent items they can use for camping.

Since Bran had brought a tent that can accommodate five people and Asher also had a tent that can accommodate four people, they didn't rent tents anymore. All they rented was a grill to cook their dinner and breakfast.

The camping ground looked like it was in the middle of a seasonal transition from winter to spring because it had patches of melting snow on the ground. They had quickly made camp and sat up their tents before the sun went down.

While setting up their tents, Summer played and rolled around the patches of snow on the ground.

"Isn't it too cold for him?" Meera asked.

"Nah, he loves snow," Bran said. "Contrary to his name, winter is his favorite season."

After setting up camp, Gilwood had gone to the Summit Six and reminded them that if they need some help of any sort, they should not hesitate to call him.

They also did not miss the opportunity to take pictures before it became dark.

As the night fell, the Northern lights began to be visible in the sky. Yes, they were visible in the North, but not visible by anyone south of Winterfell so naturally, the Reeds were in awe.

"It's breathtaking," Jojen said. "And it's not fair that you only get to see these in the Northern part of the North."

It was also starting to get colder so they made a campfire as their source of heat. They also made the fire close to the tents for warmth when they sleep.

Asher and Gwyn grabbed some sticks from their campfire to stoke the grill for their food. While the others were roasting marshmallows for s'mores.

They surrounded the campfire. From Bran to his right, were Meera, Jojen, Lyanna, Lyra, Gwyn, and on Bran's left was Asher. And between them was Summer, lying on his patch of snow.

Also while they were waiting for dinner, they played Talking Points with content prepared by Lyra. Their version is placing rolled pieces of strip paper in a small jar. Each one of them has to draw one, read the question aloud and everyone has to answer. And after the question is read, they throw it at the fire.

"Oh, I'll take the first one," Lyanna said as she picked a rolled piece of paper from the jar. She was about to read it but frowned and turned to her sister. "These are the questions? Really? What the fuck? It's kinda lame. Though, I'm a fan of this—"

"Lya, just read the question," Lyra interrupted. "And toss it into the fire before you and all of us will answer it."

"Fine," Lya shrugged. "Round goes counter-clockwise." She cleared her throat and read aloud. "What is your Hogwarts House?"

"Hey, that's not a lame question," Jojen commented.

"Thank you, Jojen," Lyra said.

Lya glared at Jojen. "Don't start with me, Reed." She took a deep breath before talking again. "Anyways, I'm a Ravenclaw."

"I'm a Slytherin," Lyra answered.

"Wow, somehow I'm not surprised," Gwyn chuckled. "I'm a Hufflepuff. And no matter how much I tried taking quizzes to get into Gryffindor, they always sorted me to Hufflepuff. So, that's that. And I've learned to embrace it."

"Babe," Asher spoke up as he flipped shish kebabs on the grill. "Too many side stories. Anyways, I'm a Gryffindor—the brave and courageous." He turned to Bran. "What about you, Stark?"

"Well, I'm a Ravenclaw," Bran answered. "And honestly, it didn't really matter to me which house I was sorted into, each one has their own special trait that everyone wishes they have." He turned to Meera. "You're next."

"I'm a Gryffindor," Meera blurted out.

"Hey," Asher beamed, then he gave Meera a fist bump. "Didn't know there's a fellow Gryffindor in here. Is your brother the same?" He asked.

"Nope," Jojen replied. "I'm actually a Ravenclaw."

"Wow," Lyra clapped her hands. "So we have three nerds, two braves and righteous, one who is too nice to hurt other people's feelings and—"

"One who is cunning and ambitious," Lyanna finished.

Lyra glared at her sister.

"What?" Lya shrugged. "It's a Slytherin trait. And you just called me a nerd."

Lyra rolled her eyes and took the jar from her sister. "Okay, next question." She pulled a piece of paper and read, "If you could bring back one deceased family member, who would it be and why?"

"Ooh, that's a good one," Gwyn said.

Lya made a face. "How come you get the meaningful ones?"

Lyra raised her hand. "Baby sis, we just started, okay?" She held the jar and shook it. "There's still a lot for questions left." She took a deep breath. "Anyway, I want to bring back…my Dad because after he died my sisters and I didn't really have a father figure because Mom never remarried. And I wish he could've seen us grow up." She turned to Gwyn. "What about you, Gwyn?"

"My Mom," Gwyn answered. "She died when I was five, after giving birth to our youngest brother, Gryff. And growing up, I was the only girl in the family. I didn't have a mother so I mostly had to figure girly stuff by myself."

Asher started placing the shish kebabs on paper plates. "My brother, Rodrik," He said. "The last time I saw him was when my entire family was sending me off to study in Essos."

"Wait," Lya interrupted. "You studied in Essos?"

Asher shrugged. "It's a long story. Rodrik was someone I looked up to. He wasn't just my brother, he was my bestfriend too. And it pissed me off that he died defending a stranger from being mugged."

At that point, Gwyn grabbed hold of Asher's arm and gently squeezed it. "Don't get tears on the shish kebabs, babe." She said.

Asher chuckled and nodded at Bran. "What about you, Stark?"

If he was asked that question weeks ago, Bran wouldn't know what to answer. But after everything he and Meera had just figured out and the other things their Dads had been hiding, there's only one person who can answer all of his questions.

"My Aunt Lyanna," Bran blurted out.

Gwyn, Asher, and Jojen's expressions were like, mmkay. The Mormonts and Meera were mostly curious and surprised like, Really, why?

Lya made a face at him. "Your aunt who looks like Arya?"

"Yeah, her." He confirmed. "For three things. First, it'd be awesome if Jon had at least one parent back. Second, I wanna sit her and Arya beside each other to, you know, spot the difference. And lastly, she's probably the only person who can answer all the questions that have been bothering me for that last week." He turned to Meera. "Stardust?"

Meera cleared her throat. "Not just one person," She said. "My grandparents, I've never met them. And I heard grandkids are always spoiled by their grandparents."

"Yeah," Jojen agreed. "Same answer. I wonder how that's like."

Lyra turned to her sister. "Baby sis?"

"Also, Dad," Lya replied. "Because between the five of us, I'm the only one who hasn't actually met him."

Bran frowned. "I thought your Dad died when you were five."

"Aly was five," Lya corrected. "I was five months…in the womb, Stark. He died before I was even born. But you know, it's life."

"Okay," Gwyn said, taking the jar from Lyra. "My turn," She shook the jar before taking a piece of paper and read it aloud. "When was your saddest/lowest point and how did you overcome it?"

"Ooh," Gwyn muttered, then tossed the paper into the fire. "These questions are getting deep. Um, I think…it was when Asher and I struggled to stay together since everyone, especially our families, were trying to break us up."

"What?" Everyone except Asher exclaimed.

"Struggled?" Meera repeated.

Lyra narrowed her eyes at Gwyn. "How did you not mention it to me or Meera?"

"Look," Gwyn said. "I just…don't wanna dwell on the past. It's all good now."

"Yeah, it's my answer too." Asher agreed. "We were Romeo and Juliet, except for the dying part. Our families were rivals of some sort, that we don't even know the reason behind their squabble."

At that point in Asher's story, Bran exchanged glances with Meera, then she clung onto his arm tight, like she's afraid that he might remove her hand.

"They even sent me off to study in Essos," Asher continued. "Just so I would be far away from Gwyn. Other stuff happened too, my brother died in the Crossing. I dropped out and transferred to the University of White Harbor without their knowledge until I graduated, of course. I, honestly don't even remember how they managed to patch things up but now, it's all good."

Bran once again glanced at Meera. "Dude, I think we're getting there." He blurted out.

Asher frowned at him. "What do you mean?"

Bran sighed. "The whole family rivals thing," He said. "Well, actually it's just my Dad and her Dad, not our Moms or siblings."

"Wait, what?" Jojen interjected. "What in seven hells are you talking about?" He turned to his sister. "How come Dad never mentioned anything?"

"Obviously, he didn't want us to be involved." Meera said.

"Yeah," Bran made a face. "But that's not exactly how my Dad thinks. He's already told me to stay away from the Reeds and it's total bullshit if you ask me."

"Oh, seven hells, no," Lyra grumbled. "No one can fucking tell you that. Not even Ned Stark."

Jojen shook his head in disbelief. "I'm gonna talk to Dad when we get home."

"Don't sweat it, little brother," Meera said. "I've already tried that, but nothing."

Lya threw her hands in frustration. "What is the deal with parents nowadays? Don't they want us to be happy or not? What the fuck."

"Wait, wait," Gwyn raised her hand. "So what was…what were they fighting about?"

"That's the thing," Meera answered. "We don't know. And if we ask, they just gave us the that's a good question for another time crap."

"But," Bran added. "I think it has something to do with my Aunt Lyanna."

"How can you be sure?" Asher asked.

"Meera found a news article," Bran said.

"Yes," Meera confirmed. "I overheard my Dad talking to my Mom about someone named Lya who died in a snowstorm in Moat Cailin twenty-five years ago." She recalled. "Then I thought if it's an accident in a snowstorm, it would be reported in the news, right? So I did some digging, and found a Northern Herald article about it."

"What did it say?" Lyra asked.

"It was about Lyanna Stark," Meera explained. "And it was said that she was borrowed my Dad's car to get to White Harbor, but she died in Moat Cailin because of a snowstorm."

Jojen leaned forward. "And?"

"And nothing," Meera replied. "That's the only lead we have. We don't know how deep this went, how many people are involved," She shrugged. "We're all in the dark."

"Well, we gotta something," Jojen insisted, then shrugged. "I like Bran and Meera seems happier when he's around, so there's no way I'm putting a stop to that."

"Aww," Gwyn swooned. "I wish my brothers were that supportive."

"You know what," Lya spoke up. "I agree with Jojen. We have to do something. I mean, if I'm gonna be a bridesmaid to their wedding—"

"Whoa!" Lyra interrupted. "How in seven hells did you get to a wedding?"

Lyanna shrugged. "I'm just pointing out that relationships usually last longer when you trust each other a hundred percent and think long-term, right?"

"I agree, baby bear." Gwyn nodded. "Trust is vital, I would say."

"Or," Lyra sneered at her sister. "You're just saying that because you wanna be paired to Jojen on Meera's wedding."

All of them cheered, much to Lyanna and Jojen's dismay.

"That's a wonderful idea," Meera considered it, earning a glare from Jojen.

"What the fuck?" Lya complained. "Really?"

"Oh, come on," Lyra said, repeatedly poking her sister's shoulder. "He saved you from falling off a cliff, it's the least you can do."

"Damn, I ship it." Gwyn smiled.

And at that point, Jojen and Lyanna had scooted farther from each other and were obviously blushing.

"We're totally sidetracking," Lya reminded them. "Let's go back to the questions in the jar."

"Right," Asher spoke up, facing Bran."Dude, you probably don't know what to do about it. It's fine, I know that feeling, I went there. But you just gotta do what you think and believe is right," Asher continued. "In the right sense, of course. Because at the end of the day, life's what we make it and things will always get better."

Bran nodded. "Thanks, man." He said. "I needed that."

"Hey, look at me and Gwyn," Asher smiled at his girlfriend.

"Yeah," Gwyn agreed. "We pulled through. And I know you and Meera will as well."

Bran turned to Meera and he was glad that she was already smiling at him. "Don't worry, Stardust," He said, grabbing Meera's hand and gently squeezed it. "I already told you this, I'm tell you again. I'm not gonna let some old family feud stop us. And I promise that I won't give up on what we have because I love you."

Lya gasped. "Oh my gods, he said the L-word."

Lyra elbowed her sister. "You're ruining the moment."

Meera booped his nose. "I love you too, Branflakes."

"Alright," Asher interrupted. "Enough of this sadness stuff. Let's just eat dinner."

"Finally!" Lya said. "I'm starving."

"Ooh," Jojen rubbed his hands together. "That smells good."

Everyone stared at him.

"Dude, I thought you were vegan." Asher recalled.

"I am," Jojen confirmed. "And you're stereotyping me again. Meat smells good when you cook it, not gonna lie. I just don't eat it. So you better have something for me."

"Of course, man," Asher assured took one of the paper plates he and Gwyn had prepared and handed it to Jojen. "Tofu and fruit kebabs for you."

Gwyn and Asher had then distributed the paper plates to them. They even prepared some for Summer, which he was excited about and immediately munched on. And Bran was thankful for the fact that Asher had the sticks removed for his dog.

"Alright," Gwyn spoke up. "Talking points can resume later, but for now, let's dig in." She raised her paper plate. "Bon appétit everyone."

As they ate their dinner, Lyra found a way to tease Lya to Jojen. Lya kept giving Lyra glares, but nothing seemed to scare her.

Afterwards, they continued playing Talking Points with the most ridiculous questions like, if you were to choose another profession besides what you have now what would it be? Or if they could migrate to someplace other than the North where would it be? Or what inscription would they put on their gravestone? Or which place would you first go in a zombie apocalypse? Or if you could invent something that could help humanity what would it be? Or what is your comfort food? Or what do most people think about you that is absolutely not true? And or what were their phobias or zodiac signs.

It was weird enough to know that Asher would've been a chef or that Gwyn wanted to visit Oldtown or that Jojen wanted to put Unable to Respawn on his gravestone and plant poison ivy around it. Lyra would first go to a hardware store in a zombie apocalypse to gather supplies and Lyanna would want to invent a truth serum because it'll make court proceedings easier. Meera's comfort food is ice cream and that everyone's first impression of Bran, whenever he introduced himself, was that he was some spoiled rich kid.

It was already about 2am when they all decided to sleep. Lyra insisted that the girls use Bran's tent since it could accommodate five people and the boys use Asher's tent because it could accommodate four people.

"And," Lyra continued. "Also so I can guarantee that no fornication will be happening."

The boys' tent was slightly open just so Bran can tend to Summer who stood as their guard.

The following morning it was Asher who got up first so he can cook them all breakfast. Bran only woke up because Summer kept howling. Not long after, the girls and Jojen got up for breakfast.

Their surroundings were misty and foggy from the cold morning. Thankfully, Asher had lit the campfire again even though there was daylight.

Asher had grilled hotdogs before putting them on buns and adding ketchup.

"Those are vegan-safe, right?" Jojen asked.

"Oh," Asher handed Jojen a paper plate with two hotdogs on buns. "I thought you were gonna say that. These are tofu dogs, by the way. Gwyn kept reminding me that you're vegan when we were buying food."

Jojen smiled. "Thanks, man. I thought you've forgotten about me."

Summer was also given hotdogs and Bran mixed it with the Ziploc of dogfood he brought. But after Summer finished his breakfast, he started barking excitedly at the foggy trail from that led to Camp 5.

"Hey, Stark," Lyra called. "Is your dog okay?"

Bran had placed Summer on a leash and clipped its end to a tie-out stake he had nailed to the ground.

"Summer," Bran said as he gently patted Summer's hide. "What's wrong, buddy?"

Summer kept restraining until the end of the leash snapped and he ran towards the foggy trail.

"Summer!" Bran called as he stood and started to follow his dog. "Oh, shit!"

Meera grabbed his hand. "Hey, where are you doing?" She demanded.

"I have to find him." He insisted. "He might've sensed something," He sighed. "I don't know. I'll be back, I promise."

"I'll go with you," Jojen volunteered.

"Me too," Lyanna agreed.

"Lya—" Lyra spoke up.

"You won't understand, Lyra," Lya argued. "Just let me be."

"I'm going too," Asher said. "You girls stay here."

Bran led the way as Asher, Jojen and Lyanna followed him, calling out Summer's name.

They walked for about ten minutes on the trail when they heard screams, making Lya clutch on to Jojen's arm.

Jojen glanced at her, but he didn't swat her hands away and instead comforted her. "It's okay."

Wolf! They heard someone yell further down the path. Summer was always mistaken as a wolf by most people to the point where they even ask him if it was legal to own a wolf as a pet. And now, Summer may have frightened a group of hikers trekking towards the summit.

"Oh, no," Bran muttered, then trudged down the trail. "SUMMER!" He called for his dog.

Asher, Jojen, and Lyanna called out Summer's name too, but he's no sight of him.

Bran looked around, trying to see past the mist. "Summer!" He cried.

That's when they heard barking again. And Bran was sure it was his dog.

"Summer?" He called out again.

A few meters down the path, Bran started to see people, hikers looking panicked and scared to which he assumed that Summer had scared the living daylights out of them.

He spotted Summer barking excitedly near a girl in a white parka jacket, who was probably the one holding his leash.

Oh, thank the gods, Bran thought.

But as he got closer, he began to notice who the girl was. Bran's eyes widened and he stopped at his tracks.

"Hello, little brother," The girl greeted.

Bran had to blink to make sure he wasn't imagining it, but nope, it was definitely her. He recognized the blue highlights in her hair—it was his sister, Arya.

Asher, Jojen, and Lya stood by his side and they probably looked confused and surprised.

Arya raised an eyebrow at them. "What the fuck are you all doing up here?" She demanded.

Before any of them could say anything, Lyanna spoke up. "Arya?"

Arya nodded at her. "What's up, namesake?"

Of course, Bran thought. Technically, Arya's full name is Arya Lyanna, meaning Lyanna Mormont is her namesake.

Arya had then nodded at Asher and Jojen's direction. "Forrester, Reed." She snorted. "This is a weird coincidence."

A tall, muscular guy went to stand beside Arya and leaned down to her ear level. "You know these people?" He asked.

Only then did Bran notice that the muscular guy was Gendry Baratheon, President Robert Baratheon's firstborn son. Suddenly, a hundred questions just popped into his head. How and when in seven hells did Arya started hanging out with him?

"Of course," Arya assured. "This is my brother, Bran." She pointed at Bran. "Summer is his dog." Then gestured to the others with him. "And friends, that's Asher, Jojen, and Lya."

"Lya?" A familiar girl's voice repeated from a few meters behind Arya.

Bran could see someone pushed passed a few hikers. As the person got closer, he recognized who it was: Jorelle Mormont.

"Hey, sis," Lyanna greeted.

Instead of Jorelle being happy to see her younger sister, she looked pissed. "What the fuck?" She exclaimed. "You didn't wait for me? This is all Lyra's doing, right?"

Lyanna rolled her eyes. "Will you calm down and stop complaining? We're all here now, aren't we?"

Arya cleared her throat. "Alright, Mormonts," She said. "Let's cut the chitchat and just continue hiking to the Summit Six, please?" She turned to the others who were just watching them. "Everyone, it's all good."

"Alright," Some guy who looked like a guide. "Stormbreaker Team 1, follow me," He went up the path and about nine hikers followed him. "This way to Summit Six."

A few others stayed as the first group went ahead.

Bran took a deep breath before speaking. "Thanks, by the way," He said as he tried to get Summer's snapped leash.

Arya pulled it far from his reach. "You didn't answer my question," She insisted. "What are you doing here?"

Bran shrugged. "What do you think?" He replied. "You think we'd come up here for grocery shopping?"

Arya glared at him. "Ha-ha." She then handed him Summer's leash.

Bran knelt and scratched Summer's neck. "You scared me a moment there, buddy."

Then Nymeria lunged at him, knocking him to the ground and licked his face.

"Ow," He complained, then pushed Nymeria's snout away from him. "Yeah, yeah, I miss you too, Nym."

Gendry chuckled. "Do your dogs always do that?" He asked.

"Yeah," Arya replied. "Sometimes, they're a little too friendly."

When the guide on Arya's group told them that they should go, they all followed.

Turns out, Asher, Jojen, and some guy Bran recognized to be Harald Karstark were good friends, so they walked alongside them going uphill. Lyanna also walked alongside her sister, Jorelle.

Bran walked beside his sister and Gendry, with Summer and Nymeria on leashes.

"So," Arya spoke up. "How did you make Mom and Dad give you permission to go hiking?" She asked.

"They don't even know I'm here," He admitted. "And don't tell them I'm here. What about you? And aren't you supposed to be in Harrenhal?"

"It's Labor day, little brother," Arya reminded him. "The seminar is over and Gendry invited me to go hiking with them."

"That's right," Gendry confirmed. "We're doing a team-building exercise. And I picked Arya up from your house."

Bran frowned at his sister. "Wait, so Mom and Dad allowed you to go hiking?"

"Not exactly," Arya admitted. "Mom didn't, of course. And there's no surprise there, she never lets us do anything fun. But Dad did," She shrugged. "For a price."

"Oh my gods, what price are we talking about here?"

"That I supervise the Winter Rose Foundation on Jon's behalf and other stuff," Arya said. "You, however, are in big trouble."

"Let's not go there." He insisted. "That's only part of the trouble I'm in if Dad finds out who I'm hiking with."

Arya turned to him with a concerned and confused expression on her face. "Little bro, we have a lot to talk about. But save it for later after I'll have a chat with Meera at Summit Six."

He frowned. "Wait, how did you know—?"

"Why else would her brother be here?" She said.