The Stark That Never Was

by curt466

Jon didnt like the idea of joining the nights watch. he was meant for somthing greater. through his journy he will gain titles, land and a name. he will meet new people, explore new places and discover magic. watch as Jon starts his own house in the gift, raising it to new heights. He doesnt need anything from the Starks, but they will need him. (I had to re-upload. sorry)

4. I Swear It

Note: Hey guys just wanna say i am very sorry i haven't been updating. Reason being is because I have been moving back in with my parents. The British economy is in the shitter right now as I am sure most of you know. I mean my bills were at £1200 a month and I only make £1600 after tax so yep shit was hard. I am settled in now so i can keep giving you guys some game of thrones fiction. Now enough of my sad life and …. ON WITH THE SHOW.

Jon

He breathed a sigh of relief when Winterfell came into his view. After he was deemed fit for travel, he along with his family left castle black. Their first stop was the Last Hearth, where they were met with a warm welcome from lady Umber. Jon was still surprised how a man like Lord Umber found himself a fair bride. Helga Umber was small in stature, only standing five feet tall. She had mousy blond hair and was well kept, he laughed when he remembered the small woman slapped the Greatjon in front of everyone. She fumed at him for causing trouble for his liege lord by being held captive to the wildings. What was more surprising was Lord Umber's reaction to the slap. He kissed his wife's hand and begged her for forgiveness. Helga looked to the onlookers in the yard and simply said "Very well then, as long as you don't cause me and our children more grief". She finished with a smile and kissed him on his lips, once it was all said and done she eagerly told everyone to prepare for a feast that would be held in Jon's honour.

He could still remember how full his belly was after the feast. He was placed on the right of Lord Umber and was toasted as the man who saved his life. It was still all so strange to him, usually at feasts he was in the back of the hall and forgotten. That night however all eyes were on him, his name on everyone's lips. His smile grew when he remembered the words spoken by Lord and Lady Umber. "My i raise a mug to the man who saved my life and spared my wife the life of a widow. To Jon, the black wolf" After everyone downed their mugs it was Helga's turn to toast. "Let it be known that Jon is forever a friend of the Umbers, any who dare mess with him shal expect the Umbers as enemies. To Jon, the black wolf".

It was indeed a night to remember, he wished he could have stayed but they needed to get to Winterfell for the announcement of his house. So the Starks and the Umbers set out to Karhold to meet up with the Karstarks. There they met Lord Karstark and his children, all of whom would travel with them to White Harbour. It was a brief welcome from the Karstarks but he got on with them well. The boat journey from Karhold to White Harbour left them plenty of time to get to know one another. Alys Karstark spent her time with Helga Umber, who was the only other woman among the group. The pair of them were hard at work making Jon's new sigil. Jon had given them the design but told no one what it was. The Greatjon tried to sneak a peek but was scared off by the angry Helga. The men spent most of the time on the ship's deck sparring. Rob spent a lot of time with the heirs of course, sparring with both Harlad Karstark and Smalljon Umber.

Jon on the other hand would spar with Torrhen and Harrion Karstark. Big Ned would be the one who he would spend the most time with however. He was surprised to learn that the Greatjon had a bastard of his own, who they all had called Big Ned. His name was well earned given how tall the boy was. Even though he was only two years older than Jon he looked to be in his early thirties. He was a good six and a half feet tall, his growing beard brown and was well kept. It would often jingle as he kept it together with metal ringlets decorated with runes of the first men.

He got to know Big Ned well before they arrived to White Harbour, learning that he had a much different upbringing than his own. Lady Umber had not scorned the boy growing up, however if Big Ned was to be believed she did give the Greatjon a firm kick in the balls when he brought him home. He tried to be envious of Big Ned, being treated like a son by a mother who was not his own. He couldn't bring himself to envy him, in fact he was glad for his new friend. He did not want to wish his treatment on anyone purely based on what side of the sheets they were born on.

When they reached White Harbour they were welcomed at the docs by none other than Wylis Manderly. He was accompanied by his two daughters Wynafryd and Wylla. He blushed at the thought of the green haired Wylla, he sat next to her at the feast of White Harbour the night before their departure. When the hall was merry and the number of dishes came to their table, Wylla had pointed to a dish and grinned. "That is fermented crab, they say it is an aphrodisiac". She then gave his thigh a squeeze and whispered in his ear. "I also hear it makes a man last all night".

A hand slapped him on the back breaking him from his thought and he looked to see a grinning Ned at his side. " Still thinking of that green haired beauty of yours"? Jon looked behind him to see the wheelhouse flying the Manderly colours. It was in the centre of the column of soldiers and knights that had travelled with them from White Harbour. Inside was the green haired beauty Big Ned spoke of.

Jon grinned and looked back at his new friend. "Aye, she is indeed a beauty. I have never been approached by a lady like that. I would rather fight the wildlings again". Big Ned laughed and nodded towards the approaching gates of winterfell. "Well enjoy your break while you can. Because once the ceremony is over, all the ladies are gonna want a piece of you".

Jon groaned at the thought. No doubt by now Lords and Ladies from all over the north had travelled to Winterfell to see the forming of his new house. Not only was it a new experience for them all, but the Gift would now be ruled by a Lord and not the Night's watch. It was history in the making and everyone wanted to be there. Looking at the ramparts he could see a number of them had already arrived. The two long axes of house Dustin plain to see, the iron fist of house Glover proudly next to it. The proud bear on a green field of house Mormont waved next to the pink ugly flayed man of house Bolton.

Jon was growing nervous at the thought of standing before the Lords of the north. True he had seen them all before, but to stand before them all, with their gazes full of judgement was a different story. He heard heavy trotting appear on his right side and nodded when his Uncle approached him.

"Jon, where about to enter Winterfell, i want you to ride in with me and Robb". He didn't give Jon any time to reply, he simply galloped to the front of the column to join Robb's side. Jon huffed and turned to Big Ned, he held out his arm and smiled when the taller boy grabbed it. "See you at the feast then brother". Big Ned grinned and let go of Jon's arm.

"Aye i wouldn't miss it, i can't wait to see all the ladies fight for a dance with you pretty boy". Jon laughed before riding after up the column to meet his Uncle and brother. By the time he reached them the arch way of Winterfell hung above them. Many of the castle's inhabitants had already lined up and waited for their Lord to dismount and greet his family. In the centre of the main courtyard stood the Stark family and the Lords and Ladies of the north. As they grew closer to the big group, Jon could see Lady Stark had the rest of the children lined up on her left. It went from oldest to youngest, starting with Sansa. She was the image of Catelyn in her youth, according to the Septon that stood behind Lady Stark. On her left was Arya, who stood awkwardly in a grey dress her mother no doubt forced her into. Next to her was Bran who smiled at him and his group.

He frowned when he noticed the smug face of Theon on the end of the line. The boy always grated on his nerves, always boasting how he was the heir to pyke and all of the iron islands. He hated how his Uncle treated him, Theon was a prisoner here and yet he was treated like one of the Stark children. His Monthly allowance was even bigger than his own, Lady Stark may not have liked him but still gave him respect given he was actually a pure born noble. Noble was a very loose word when it came to the Iron Born, in his eyes they were nothing but thieves and rapists.

They finally came to a stop before the crowd and waited for their father to dismount. Ned got off his horse and handed his reins over to a Stark guard. Ned watched as his wife approached with a straight face, she gave a small courtesy, being careful not to wake the small Rickon Stark in her arms. "My Lord, welcome home".

Ned frowned at her tone before giving Rickon a small kiss on the head. "It is good to be home my Lady". He looked to his gathered Lord and smiled at them. "My Lord's, my thanks for coming to Winterfell on such short notice. I am sure Lady Stark has made your stay pleasant". Ned watched as many of the Lord's gave him small nods and smiles. "You will have to forgive me. It's been many weeks since I have been home and I would like to spend the evening with my family. We shall gather in the great hall once everyone has arrived and there we will begin the naming of my son's house. I hope you all enjoy your time at Winterfell".

Many of the Lord nodded before breaking away back into Winterfell. It was subtle, but they took the hint that Lord Stark would not be seeing them at this time. Arya being the little wolf she was, ran to her father and jumped into his arms. Ned caught her, he began to laugh as he spun her round where he stood. "Ah my little wolf, did you miss me"? He let the girl down and watched her smile grow.

"I did father, Winterfell didn't feel right without you". Ned smiled before gesturing to Bran to join them. The small boy ran over and gave his father an equally big hug. "I'm glad you are back, father, I have missed you, Jon and Robb too". Ned ruffled his hair before walking over to Sansa, his daughter gave a perfect courtesy and smiled up at him. "I have missed you father" Ned gave her a kiss on the head. "I have missed you too Sansa, have you been keeping your siblings out of trouble".

Sansa looked to the floor and rubbed her hands together. "I have been too busy practising my needlework. I didn't have much time to play with Arya and Bran". Ned chuckled at her words, it was just like Sansa. She always behaved like a proper southern lady, always aiming to be like her mother. "You will have to show me what you have made at dinner". Sansa smiled up at him and nodded.

"JON"

Ned zipped his head behind him to see Bran and Arya tackle Jon to the ground. He laughed along with Ser Rodrick as two lay on top of Jon. "We heard what happened, are you ok"? "Were the wildlings scary"? "Were you scared"? Robb jumped off his horse and marched over to the three, he pulled Bran and Arya off and chuckled.

"Alright you two enough, Jon is still healing from his injuries". The pair stopped in their tracks when they heard Jon wasn't fully better. Bran looked up at Jon with worry. "You're still not better, we heard you were asleep for days. If I slept for days I would feel great" Jon and Robb burst into laughter at their youngest brother's naivety. Jon knelt to get eye level with Bran and placed a gloved hand on his brown curly hair.

"I'm all better, don't you worry Bran. The Maester at castle black said I should be taking it easy for a while longer. Which means I can't let you or Arya swing off my arms anymore". Bran smiled as Jon stood and turned to Arya. She was red in the face and looked down to the ground. Jon put a hand on her shoulder and gave it a small rub.

"Arya, what's wrong" she looked up at him with tear filled eyes before kicking him hard in the shin. "Stupid"! She shouted before storming off back into the keep. Jon leaned down and rubbed the spot Arya just kicked. Robb stormed past them and chased her into the keep.

Jon looked down at Bran and frowned. "What was that all about"? Bran gave a small sigh before walking off towards the keep himself. "She's been like this ever since it got announced you would be the Lord of the gift. She was fine at first but once she realised you would be leaving she started being mean and wandering off".

Jon frowned and grabbed Bran in close as they walked. "And what about you? Are you going to miss me"? Bran wrapped one of his small arms around Jons back and nodded. "I don't want you to go either, but Maester Luwin says it's your duty. You wouldn't be going if it wasn't, Right"?

Jon smiled down at him once again. "Of course brother, it's not that I want to leave. I have too, our father has made me Lord of the gift. A Lord must look after his people, to provide and protect them. Do you understand Bran"? He felt Bran's head nod up and down against his belly and smiled. "Good, now let's go see if Gaige has made any of his famous pies for dinner"

Ned

Tonight's dinner was stale, the tension was thick and it was beyond awkward. The food as always was delightful, Gaige's meat and onion pies were always amazing. The crust was dense and flakey, lard was the key to it according to his cook. On the side they had roasted potatoes and boiled carrots, all seasoned with salt and rape seed. It wasn't a fancy dinner, just a nice family meal after being apart for so long.

However the dinner was soured by everyone's mood. Little Arya spent the meal holding her knife in a reverse grip, jabbing into her food. She glared at Jon the whole meal and barely spoke to anyone. Jon looked uncomfortable, it was rare for him to sit at the head table. Even more so when his wife was present, he ignored Arya's glares and spoke to his siblings only when he was spoken to.

His wife was his main worry, she hardly spoke a word all meal. She only picked at her food and when she wasn't looking at her plate she was glaring at him or Jon. He knew this would be coming, the moment he made Jon a Lord he knew he would have to have a confrontation with his wife. He took a deep breath before marching down the family wing of the castle.

He approached his bedchamber, he looked to the two guards and motioned for them to leave. He looked down the hall and waited for his guards to turn a corner. Once they were out of sight he grabbed the door handle and entered. He watched as Catelyn stormed about the room, grabbing some clothing and placing them in a trunk. She slammed it shut and began to storm over to her dressing table.

Ned sighed before shutting the door behind him. "Would you like to explain yourself"? She stopped at her dressing table before zipping her head round to look at him. "Explain myself? Forgive me my Lord but it isn't I who should be explaining anything".

Ned winced internally at that, his wife never calls him Lord unless it's in public or she was furious with him. "Cat, I have my reasons for making Jon Lord of the Gift. Is there a reason you have been putting poison in our son's ear"?

She looked at him with anger and an equal look of confusion. "I have no idea what you're talking about". Ned stormed up to her, making the woman take a slight step back in fear. He looked down at her and frowned.

"After the wildling attack Robb embarrassed himself in the yard. After I had a strong word with him he told me you said to him that Jon was aiming to take winterfell from him. Because that's what Bastards do".

She looked away, not being able to meet his stern gaze or listen to her own words being used against her. "On top of all that Cat you ruined the family dinner with your behaviour. The children will no doubt take notice".

She stood up straighter and glared back at him. "He is not my son, i shouldn't be expected to dine with your bastard-"

"No but you are expected to dine with my vassals. Jon is now Lord of the Gift and therefore is due the respect he deserves. I know he is not your son and I have never asked you to treat him as such. But why tell our children these horrible things"?

She was taken back by Ned's outburst. It was rare for him to raise his voice at her. It had happened on a few occasions in the past and even today it still startled her. She gathered what courage she had left and met his stern gaze.

"You are Lord of Winterfell and Warden of the North. You may do as you please, now if you will excuse me my Lord I will spend the night in one of the guest rooms".

She made a move for her travelling trunk but her hands were grabbed by Ned. She closed her eyes and flinched when he spun her round to face him. "Look at me Cat".

She opened her eyes to see she was face to face with her husband. He wasn't angry nor was he upset, he looked tired. She relaxed when she felt him let go of her arms. She knew he would never strike her, he was too honourable for that. It was one of the many things she loved about the man.

"Cat, all through our marriage we have slept in the same bed. Our marriage was not one of love but of necessity. However over time I grew to love you, you have given me five wonderful children and you have been by my side through it all. I don't want something like this to separate me from you even for one night".

She felt her stomach flutter at Ned's words. Every one he spoke was true and she often thought about how well her life had turned out. She knew he loved her and she loved him too. It was rare they argued like this. The only other time they had a fight like this was when Ned came back with Jon in his arms after the war.

She took a step back from him and sat on the side of their bed. The adrenaline was starting to leave her system and she grew tired. Ned watched as she picked at one of her nails, no doubt thinking about what to say to him.

"Why did you make him a Lord? Why give him the Gift, would a holdfast and some servant not be enough? It's too generous Ned, What of Rickon and Bran. Could they not have been Lord of the gift in the future"?

She didn't raise her voice this time, it sounded like she was really trying to understand what he had done. He sat next to her on the bed and took one of her hands into his own.

"The night's watch is a decaying Cat. It can't keep the wildlings out, range North and provision itself. The Gift needs proper management and someone to oversee it. The wildlings not only captured Lord Umber but our son, my heir. If i did not give Jon a proper reward like a Lordship then Lord Umber would have taken it as an insult, it would mean i did not value his life. It would say to the other Lords that I do not reward loyalty, so in the future they will not answer my call to arms".

She gave a small nod before squeezing his hand. "But why give him the Gift? It's a lot of land, all of it will belong to him instead of one of our sons. Why not give him a small plot of land and in the future give it to Rickon or Bran".

Ned stroked his chin with his free hand and frowned. "It would not work Cat. I can't go back on my word, it would make me look weak in front of my men. Even if i wanted to i can't, it wouldn't be fair to Bran or Rickon".

She was confused, why would it be unfair to her sons to be given the Gift. Ned noticed her confusion and stroked her hair. "The gift is a harsh place Cat. It's the coldest region in all of the North, it's hard to grow anything there. The people there are hard and live rough lives, Wildlings are constantly invading their lands. It's Jon's job to unite them, it's his job to improve their lives and tackle the wildling problem. This Lordship is a burden as much as it is a gift. I would give Rickon or Bran much better and easier lands to rule".

Her eyes widened at her husband's words. She hadn't really thought about it in that sense. She had heard rumours of the Gift and how hard it was up there. She actually shivered at the thought of how cold it could be, perhaps her husband had a point in not sending her sons there.

She leaned in close and rested her head on her husband's shoulder. All the tension and angst left her body. She now realised why it had to be Jon. The Gift would be a hard region to rule, it would take someone who had been there to rule. It would take the famed Black Wolf of the Gift to get it into shape. Ned looked down at her and smiled.

"I know it's hard to see, but really I am giving Jon a hard task. But it needs to be done, I thought it would also be good for him to finally leave home". She frowned when she heard that. Whenever Jon came up in their conversations, Ned was adamant he would stay in Winterfell.

"Are you sending him away to please me"?

She hated how desperate she sounded. Ned moved her head off of his shoulder. He played with her auburn hair as he looked her in the eye. "I am doing this to try and please everyone Cat. Jon confessed he did not want to join the Night's Watch. I need a Lord in the Gift, I need to give Jon a future and I also need to keep my wife happy. By making Jon Lord of the Gift I solve so many problems".

She leaned into Ned's hands as he began to rub the back of her neck. She grabbed him by his wrists and sighed. "What is it you want, Ned"?

He let go of his wife. He stood and walked over to the right side of the room. On the cobbled wall hung two clay masks, one of a woman and the other a man. He traced his finger over the woman's face and let a lone tear fall down his cheek.

"I want my family to be whole Cat. I want my children to stay in this castle forever, everyone of them. I lost too much growing up, I fought in a war before I reached twenty winters. I don't want my children to go through that. But no matter how hard I try I can't protect them forever, I won't always be here to help them"

Cat stood quickly to make her way over to Ned. She placed a comforting hand on his back and took one of his hands into her own. She looked up at the clay faces, both of them cold and white. She looked at the male face and felt a pang of guilt. The face that hung on her wall was to be her original husband, Brandon Stark. While she looked at Brandon, Ned looked to his sister, Lyanna Stark.

Ned very rarely spoke of his past. Everyone in Westeros knew the tale of how his family was murdered by the Targaryen's. She looked at him and realised now how hard all this must have been for him. He didn't want to send Jon away, he didn't want his son to go off and be a man. Yet he was duty bound to do it.

She stroked his back and smiled at him. "Come on Ned, it's getting late. We should head to our bed and sort this all out tomorrow". Ned looked at her and smiled. He startled her by picking her up and throwing her on the feathered bed. He laughed when she yelped and threw a pillow at him.

"Hurry and take your leathers off you buffoon, I need you to come and keep me warm".

Jon

The past three days have been stressful. Ever since he got back to Winterfell he hasn't had a moment to himself. He and his father had to draft and sign a letter to the Citadel in oldtown. Informing them of his new Lordship so they could send over a Maester to aid Jon and his new house. Maester Luwin said the Citadel will be buzzing with life after receiving their message.

Old tomes would be read to see the history of the Gift. The catalogue of the Northern houses would be updated with Jon's sigil, banner and house words. Many of the Maester's would mark down the date and the events that led to Jon's rise to Lordship.

The deed to Jons Lordship was copied and stored away in Maester Luwins library. Inventory was the worst part of it. His father was kind enough to give him some supplies to help make a start rebuilding his castle.

He was given three wagons full of supplies, each one carrying everything he needed to get started. Items such as leather, rope, various tools and even some steel and coal. His father also gave him fifteen hundred gold dragons, six hundred silver and eight hundred coppers to get his treasury started. He was also given permission to go out into Wintertown to see if anyone was willing to go with him.

He set up a small stall and with the help of Maester Luwin took down the names and professions of people who were willing to go. All of them were promised coin and steady feed if they joined him. So far he only had twenty two people willing to join.

Six out of the twenty two had trades. Stone masons, carpenters and even a Bowyer. The others were just second and third sons with nothing to inherit, all of them signed up to join the guard. All of them were gathering their things and saying goodbye to their families. He thought about his own family and how he wouldn't be seeing them for a long time.

Things with Robb were a bit awkward right now. The dynamic between the two shifted when he was made a Lord. Robb was not cold or mean to him, he just seemed awkward. He couldn't blame him for it, it did feel strange now. He was confident before he left they would put things to right.

His Uncle was being really supportive and was giving him lessons wherever he could. He tried his best to soak it all in as best he could. Bran and Rickon were just the same as they always were. Bran was sad to see him go but did his best to hide it. Rickon was still just a babe so he had no idea what was going on.

Sansa was also acting her usual self. She paid him no mind and decided to spend time with some of the younger Ladies that had come to winterfell.

Lastly was Arya. She has been avoiding him, everytime he tried looking for her he couldn't find her. On the odd times he saw her, she would run from him. Between that and doing Lordly duties he was mentally exhausted. Tonight was the night he would stand before all the Lords of the North and pledge his fealty to his Uncle.

He would announce to the world his house name, his house words and show his banner. He wanted to do it with a clear head, free from family trouble. So he decided he would catch Arya at one of her lessons. He stopped before the Septa's door and gave it a knock.

"Enter"

He cringed when he heard the sour old woman's voice. She never liked him and would always thrown at him with Lady Stark. He pushed open the door and entered a room full of young ladies. All were seated and hunched over the needle work they were crafting. He held in a chuckle when he saw Arya's annoyed face as she jabbed at the handkerchief she was making.

The septa stood and walked over to him. He braced himself for a tongue lashing but was surprised when the woman gave a small bow. "Lord Jon, to what do we owe this visit". Jon cleared his throat before gesturing to Arya

"Pardon the intrusion Septa. I was hoping I could speak to Arya" The Septa turned to Arya and gestured for her to get up from her chair. Arya put down her needle work and walked over to the pair.

"Arya dear, Lord Jon would like a moment of your time". Arya looked at the Septa then at Jon. "Does this mean i am finished with my lesson". The Septa looked at Jon, he gave her a nod and smiled.

"I will explain to Lord Stark why I pulled her from her lesson Septa. I am afraid I must speak with her before tonight's feast" The Septa once again bowed and turned to Arya "Very well my Lord. Arya remember what you learned today and enjoy the feast" Arya gave the Septa a crooked courtesy before stepping out of the room with Jon.

Jon stepped out of the room first and held his out to Arya. She was not getting away from him this time. Arya took his hand and he led her to his room on the far side of the family wing. Neither of them said anything on the way there. The only time they spoke was when they passed serving staff and gave them a quick greeting.

When they reached Jon's room he opened it up and nudged her inside. Arya went straight for the bed and plopped on its edge. She folded her arms and pouted, not looking at Jon. Jon sighed before he grabbed his desk chair and placed it across from her. He sat in the chair and leaned down to get level with Arya.

"You've been avoiding me, little wolf. What's the matter"? Arya grew red in the face when she heard the question. "Nothings the matter, And i haven't been avoiding you stupid"

Jon got up from his chair and moved to his desk. He pulled open one of the drawers and revealed an item covered in a leather bag. "Oh really, so you kicked me in the shin and nothing is wrong. I see, you just don't like me anymore. Well it looks like this gift I got you from White Harbour will just have to go to Bran".

He almost laughed when he saw her eyes go wide at the idea. He held the parcel infront of her and watched as she struggled to come to words. He knew it was manipulation, but it was the only plan he had.

"I don't hate you, I'm mad at you. Everyone says you're leaving to go be some fancy Lord. Why would you want to leave your family? Why do you want to leave me"?

Jon placed the bag on the desk and plopped down next to her on his bed. He wrapped his arm around her and pulled her in for a hug. "I don't want to go Arya, but I must. Father has made me Lord of the Gift, which means I have to go to the Gift and oversee things".

He could see tears welling in her eyes now, the anger she felt before was fading. "Why can't you just rule from here at Winterfell. Father would allow it" Jon shook his head at the girls words, she was smart for her age but still held her innocence.

"Arya, a Lord, a real Lord can't lead from afar. He must be there with his people. Like father does here, he can't exactly be Lord of Winterfell if he isn't in Winterfell. Do you understand"?

She held onto him tighter and nodded her head up and down. He buried her face into his cloak and let it soak up her tears. "Why do you have to be a Lord? You could have said no. You could have stayed here with me".

Her words were muffled but he could still make them out. He removed her head from his cloak and held her at arm's length. He watched as she used her hands to dry her tears.

"Arya, all my life I have never known what to do. I thought I wanted to join the Night's Watch but I realised I don't want that for myself. When father gave me a Lordship I was grateful, I finally have a purpose. Even if I refused it, I would still have to leave Winterfell. At least this way I will be able to visit".

She looked at him with red puffy eyes and gave a small smile. "Will you really come visit"? He grinned and scooched closer to her.

"Of course I will, as often as I can. That's a promise, as long as you still like me that is". They both laughed and she looked at the floor in shame.

"I am not mad at you, not really. I am just sad, I don't want you to leave. Who am I going to play with"? He chuckled before standing and walking over to Aryas gift. He grabbed it before asking her to stand and join him.

She stood up eagerly and walked over to him. He held the bag in front of her and gestured for her to take it. She grabbed the worn leather bag and was surprised at how heavy it felt in her hand. She opened it up and looked inside. Her head zipped up at him and her face was full of shock. She put a hand inside and pulled out an eight inch dagger. She let the leather bag drop onto the floor as she held the dagger in both of her hands.

It was nothing fancy. It had a black leather handle and a simple metal cross guard. Its steel blade was hidden in its black leather sheath that had a small leather belt so it could be worn at the hip.

"Is it really mine"?

Jon smiled down at her and nodded. "Of course, however this is no toy Arya. It's real steel and deathly sharp. You will have to practise with it, every day".

She pulled the blade out and smiled at her reflection on the steel. She looked at Jon before giving him a big hug. Jon flinched when he felt Arya hug him with a blade in her hand. He couldn't shout at her though, he was just relieved she was no longer mad at him.

She let go of him and he knelt down to adjust her grip and her stance. "Now lesson one stick'em with the pointy end". She laughed before placing the dagger back in its sheath.

"I know that stupid". She placed the dagger under her mattress and turned back to Jon. "Thank you Jon, it's the best gift ever. I am sorry I was horrible to you over the past couple days".

He placed a hand on her shoulder and gave her a small smile. "I understand Arya. I know this is hard for you but believe me when i say this is going to be harder for me. I will be all on my own, in a different place. Making important decisions and being responsible. Tonight I have to stand in front of all the Lords in the North and pledge fealty to father. I would much rather be staying here with you and playing Knights and Brigands".

She giggled at him. It had been a while since they played Knights and Brigands. She smiled up at him and gave him a hug. "Don't worry Jon, I will be there tonight. If anyone gives you trouble they have my dagger to fear".

Jon pretended to be a swooning maiden and fell on his bed. "Oh Sir Arya, please save me from the mean Lords" She jumped on him and began to bang her small fists on his back. "Don't be so silly Jon"

He laughed as he felt the small fists of his sister bang on his back. He was relieved he sorted everything out with Arya, now he just had to face all the Lords tonight. It would be his first test of Lordship, to stand amongst men who were his equal in position and not embarrass himself.

Ned

He shifted in his seat as he watched his Lords file into his hall. He along with his family sat at the high table at the head of the hall. On his left sat his wife, he looked at her and couldn't help but smile. The morning after their argument he woke to an empty bed. When he found his wife mid day he found she was up early and making preparations for Jon's feast. She did everything by herself with the aid of the house staff.

He looked to the hall and could see the four long tables covered in various food and drink. He could pick out the roasted boar, the bowls of roasted vegetables and boards full of roast chicken. Each table had a big cask of ale at the end of it, all open and ready to be drunk. The three hearths in the hall were ablaze with roaring fires and filled the room with warmth and light. Along the walls he could see the banners of all of his vassals. One banner for each house as to not show any favouritism.

His wife had gone all out on tonight's celebration and it filled him with joy. He looked to the empty chair on his right. Soon enough Jon would enter the room, announce his house and sit beside him. No longer a son but one of his vessels to do as he commanded.

He looked down the table to see his children all looking presentable and behaving themselves. He was happy to see Arya in her grey and blue dress and sitting like a proper Lady. He didn't want an earful from his wife about her behaviour later. He looked back out into the hall to see the majority of his Lords had taken their seats and helped themselves to some ale. It was customary for them all to wait for the announcement of the feast before touching the food.

He watched as a smaller gentleman entered his hall and was surprised when he caught the man's sigil on his leather chest. A black lizard lion on a green field. The sigil of house Reed. He felt his heart stop in his chest, Lord Reed was not a man who left the Neck often. Whenever there was a feast or a small tourney the Reeds never came, always politely refusing.

He watched as the man sat at the very back of the hall, he leaned against the wall and scanned the room. When Lord Reed made eye contact with him he felt a sense of dread wash over him. Why would Howland come tonight of all nights. The last he had seen of him was when they returned from the rebellion. The last time they spoke it was a heated conversation. He was the only other man alive who knew of Jon's true identity. He was wroth with Ned when he was told Jon would be raised as a bastard.

Lord Reed was a man of his word and Ned trusted him with his life, but him coming tonight made him feel uneasy. He was broken out of his worry when he felt his wife's hand on his shoulder. "Ned, it looks as if all the Lord and Ladies are here".

He looked at her before nodding his head. He banged his mug on the table and stood. When he noticed all the Lords stopped their conversations and gave their attention he spoke.

"My Lords, It is an honour to have you all in my hall again. It warms my heart to see you all happy and healthy". His words were met with cheers and mugs banging on tables. He held his hand up to calm them down before continuing.

"Weeks ago me and my sons travelled all over the North to visit you all as I am sure you remember. During that journey we visited the wall with Lord Umber. While we were there we were set upon by wildlings, regrettably my heir Robb and Lord Umber were taken captive".

"Fucking savages"

"Goat fuckers"

All the Lords and Ladies grumbled and spat at the mentioning of the wildlings. Ned smiled before banging his cup again to quieten them down. "Fret not my Lords. For the invaders are dead and my son and Lord Umber were rescued. Rescued by the man we honour this night, my son Jon".

When Jons name was mentioned the doors to the great hall were opened and in walked Jon. He smiled when he saw his son walk in standing tall and proud. His polished leather boots clacked against the cobbled floor. His hair was pulled back and tied in a knot so as to not get in his face. It revealed the forming Scar on his right eye and the growing beard on his chin.

He wore a black tunic that had white hem lines on the edges of the arms. It hung over his black breeches that were kept up by a black leather belt. At his side hung his sword and his dagger. Ned smiled even more when he heard his Lords shout their approval.

"Aye"

"The Black Wolf"

"The sword of the damn North that boy"

Jon took it all in stride as he walked past the tables and stood before the high table. When he stood before Lord Stark everyone grew quiet. The only thing that could be heard was the footsteps of helga as she came in carrying a folded up banner. She stopped just behind Jon and gave Lord Stark a small bow.

Ned smiled down at his son, he picked up the deed to his Lordship from his table and held it in his hands. "Jon, as a reward for your loyalty to this family. As a reward for not only saving my heir but Lord Umber I grant you Lordship over the Gift. All I need to know now is your house name, your words and your sigil. Present them proudly for all to see and hear".

Jon gave a nervous swallow before looking across the assembled Lords and Ladies. He looked at the high table to see Arya and Bran smiling at him. Robb gave a small smile and a nod of encouragement. Oddly enough even Lady Stark gave him a small smile. He took a deep breath and looked to his uncle.

"Lord Stark, I thought long and hard about my new name. People as of late have been calling me the Black Wolf, a name I take pride in. I also wish to pay homage to the old gods. That is why my new name shall be Jon Fenrir"

Ned smiled at the name. Fenrir was the mother of all wolves and watcher of the wildlife in the North. It was a fitting name for Jon and the Lords seemed to approve of his choice.

"And your house words"?

Jon smiled and winked at Lord Umber. "I am the new Lord of the Gift, its people are mine to protect. Should any invader come and do us harm, they will get nothing but two things. Ice and Blood"

The Greatjon stood and raised his mug in the air "ICE AND BLOOD"!

The rest of the hall repeated after the Greatjon and took large gulps from their mugs. Jon smiled and looked across the gathered Lords. He meant what he said about invaders and what they would get if they crossed him. But it was also to pay respect to his real fathers house.

Jon then gestured for Helga to step forward and present his banner to his Uncle. "Finally, to pay respect to my family and you my Liege Lord. May I present my sigil."

Helga unravelled the banner until it was fully revealed to all in the hall. The banner showed the head of a snarling black direwolf on a field of white. Its eyes were a bright red and its teeth had specks of blood on them.

The room once again was filled with cheers and howls from the assembled nobility. It was a fantastic banner and its message was clear as day. Ned held his hand up to silence the Lords and Ladies in his hall. He moved to the front of the table and motioned for Jon to join him.

"Now Lord Fenrir is the time where you swear fealty to me. Let the men and women of this room and the old gods bear witness to your oath".

Jon drew his sword from its sheath and knelt before Lord Stark. He placed the tip of his blade on the floor and held the crossguard to his forehead.

"I, Jon Fenrir, pledge fealty to the Stark of Winterfell. Hearth and heart and harvest I yield up to you, my Lord. My swords and spears and arrows are yours to command. Grant mercy to my weak, help my helpless and justice to all, and i shall never fail you"

Rob, Catelyn and Theon looked on in confusion. They had heard oaths of fealty before but not in this fashion. Many of the Lords and Ladies slowly stood when they heard the beginning of Jons oath. They looked sombre and serious, all except the Greatjon who was sporting a big grin.

Ned looked at his kneeling son with pride. He swallowed the lump in his throat and spoke. "Do you swear it"

Jon looked up at his father and looked him dead in the eye. "I swear it, by earth and water. I swear it, by bronze and iron. I swear it, by ice and fire".

Ned looked to the assembled Lords and Ladies and noticed how none had dared make a sound. They looked to his son as he swore the ancient vow of the first men. Those words aren't commonly used these days. Most Lord's were content with a simple pledge, but Jon wanted to make a show of his support and fealty to the Stark's. It was a way of showing he kept the old gods and the old ways.

"Then rise Lord Fenrir and be recognised as the new Lord of the Gift". Jon stood and sheathed his sword. He turned to the assembled Lord and Ladies and smiled. His smile was met with cheers and shouts of approval from his fellow Lords. Many of them stormed up to him and began shaking his hand. The Greatjon of course picked him up and gave him a bear hug. He was starting to feel dizzy with all the commotion. It had finally happened, he was now officially a Lord. He would be setting out soon and managing his own Land.

The Greatjon held his mug up high and scream "TO LORD FENRIR"

"TO LORD FENRIR"!

Note: WOW what a long chapter =0 it's been a while since i have written anything for this story so i thought i would make an extra long one for you guys. I hope you guys like some of the decisions I have made and enjoyed reading it. Please leave a review and some constructive criticism if there is any. See you all next time