Thank you to everyone who has supported the story so far.

Last 2 chapters were a bit of world building, I'll admit. Now we return to the War, here's hoping I get to hear from many of my silent readers.

Chapter 17

Invasion

Shadows moved through the dark forest like silent ghosts as they chased a fleeting scent they had caught on to.

One lost so long ago, but still familiar to them.

His ever silent younger pack brother with blood red eyes followed after him loyally. The albino colored littermate of his who was usually silent now seemed quite unsettled.

The larger of the wolves leading the charge whined softly in an effort to calm his littermate and achieved some success when the younger wolf howled back positively.

Once they had been six, with five of them whimpering blind in the snow beside their dead mother, sucking cool milk from her hard dead nipples while he crawled off alone.

Now only five remained and if they couldn't find their litter's last sister, then only four...

The White Wolf whined somberly again earning a furious but determined snarl from his older pack brother with smoky grey fur and fierce yellow eyes.

They had already lost one sister in these lands long ago, the reminder of that loss making their tails drop sadly.

They would not lose their last sister in these strange lands.

It was with that feeling the White Wolf followed after his eldest pack brother with even more speed as they both chased the familiar scent.

Robb awoke with a silent gasp and blinked away the shadows from his eyes only to catch sight of a naked girl lying next to him. Her long brown hair covered her back beautifully and her white skin reflected in the dim room of their chamber.

It was his new wife.

The memories of the Wedding, the festivities alongside celebration of Lord Bolton's wedding to another Frey, and the first night when he and Roslin Frey gave themselves to each other came rushing back making him blush a little.

All things considered, it had not been as horrible as he had imagined.

Roslin had been a sweet girl who had tried her best to strike conversation with him whenever they got a chance which weren't many due to the festivities and all the lords coming to wish them well and offer gifts. She had also done her duty as his wife on their first night quite well adding to his joy.

When he didn't see Greywind in his room as was the usual norm or feel his wolf's presence nearby, the dream came back to him.

So you're both out there searching for your sister, Grey Wind and Ghost.

Robb wondered if Jon had been having the same dream like him and was determined to ask his brother about it in the morning which would be arriving soon. A part of him felt sorry for the direwolves, they were searching for their last sister but if Arya had truly warged into her...then Nymeria was also gone in a way like Arya had.

He gently got up from the bed and walked towards the window to gaze outside the calm prevailing across Riverrun.

Tomorrow he would be riding back to War just like his Father had against the Mad King after marrying Robb's mother in this very Castle. His mother had always said Robb had been conceived on that one fateful night and the Stark King wondered if destiny would repeat itself.

A lone tear slipped from his eye as he had never imagined to be married alone like this, without the presence of his entire family except Jon.

"Your Grace..."

Robb blinked in surprise and saw Roslin arriving by his side hesitantly making him quickly wipe away at his moist eyes, an action that didn't go unnoticed by his Frey wife.

"Are you upset? Is it anything I did-"

"No, my lady. Just remembering my family, I wish they had been here to see me getting married" confessed Robb hesitantly,

Realization dawned upon Roslin as she remembered so many of her family had been present for their wedding, yet the only one from the King's family had been his half brother who had been quite kind and courteous to her.

"I'm sorry, Your Grace" she consoled her new husband gently, making him smile.

"Please call me Robb when we're alone. And it's not your fault so don't be sorry, Father and Arya are gone, so are some of my good friends including Theon Greyjoy. My mother and younger brothers- Bran and Rickon are the holding the North for me...the only one to blame for all of it are the Lannister's and the war they started" explained Robb patiently,

Roslin saw her husband again getting lost in memories even as he recalled the names of those closest to him. In his silence, she saw the pain he carried for the first time and didn't know what made her step forward to place a comforting hand upon his shoulder even as her other hand held the sheet protecting her modesty.

Robb looked back at her in surprise once again but she didn't back away.

"I know our marriage was not something you would have desired...but I am here for you should you ever need me" she proposed truthfully,

"Thank you, my lady-"

"Call me Roslin when we're alone, Your Grace" she said with a faint teasing smile,

Robb laughed heartily upon those words which made him look much younger and brought a smile upon her lips as well when the King nodded his consent at her request.

He surprised her once again by taking her hand from his shoulder and holding it gently.

"Thank you for supporting me, Roslin" said Robb honestly,

"My pleasure" she whispered shyly with a faint blush tinting her cheeks,

They stayed like that in comfortable silence for a long time and watched the water flowing across Riverrun peacefully.

"You're leaving for War today, aren't you?" she asked nervously,

"I am" admitted Robb with a determined nod,

"Will you take me with you?" asked Roslin, making Robb look at her sadly.

"I'm afraid it won't be safe, Roslin. You're my Queen and I wish to keep you safe, which is why I wish for you to remain here at Riverrun. Lord Edmure will ensure your safety until I settle this War for good. I have already lost enough family for a lifetime" answered Robb frankly, but his tone was anything but kind.

Roslin didn't look happy but thankfully she didn't argue and merely gave a somber nod.

"Will you write to me?" she asked after a long moment,

"I promise" swore Robb, and saw it made her quite happy.

"Can you tell me about my new family? It would help if I am to get to know them better" she requested,

"Of course. You've already met my brother Jon, he's usually quite reserved and speaks less. But he is loyal"

Roslin listened patiently as Robb talked more about the half-brother fighting by his side before moving on to his parents. There was genuine grief as well as guilt when he talked about them and it was easy to see he loved and respected his father and mother dearly.

The King's laugh was infectious when he talked about Bran and Rickon, and all the things they did which made her laugh as well. The tales he told her about Sansa gave Roslin hope of finding a kindred spirit in Winterfell someday now that the Princess was rescued.

The only one he talked very less about was Arya...and Roslin didn't push for more as the heartbreak was still visible in Robb's eyes over his recently deceased younger sister.

It was why she diverted him to questions about the North, its lords and lands- something for which Robb gave a thankful smile before answering.

They didn't realize as time flew by and the first rays of the sun entered their room when the King finally stopped.

Realization dawned upon them as it was time to attend to their duties, him as a King and Roslin as his new Queen. The awkwardness between them had lessened greatly as they got ready and she helped him don his armor and gave him his crown and sword which he accepted with a grateful smile.

Robb hesitated for a moment before coming forward and laying a deep kiss upon her lips which she savored as much as she could before they had to part for good.

They looked at each other for a long moment before Robb steeled himself and placed a comforting hand upon her cheek.

"Till I return"

Robb found his brother waiting for him in the courtyard alongside the rest of the lords and commanding officers. Lord Royce had already marched with the first wave containing 10,000 men from Harrenhal a few days ago. Lord Gilwood Hunter had taken another 10,000 yesterday and the last 10,000 would be led by the King and his brother to carry out the Invasion.

"Had a good night, Your Grace?" teased Jon with a smirk,

"Actually I did" replied Robb with a smirk of his own, earning a round of chuckles from the lords and men nearby including his brother.

"Then let's get the hell out of here before your Father-in-law rises demanding to break his fast with you" said Jon with a barely contained smile, and laughed more when Robb shivered and swiftly mounted upon his horse.

As Jon and the rest of the lords and commanders mounted upon their horses, Robb looked upon Edmure Tully.

"Hold the Riverlands for me, Uncle. Push back any Lannister armies that try to seize it back from you, I'll leave reinforcements at the Golden Tooth and Bran has left some 3000 men at Moat Cailin who will come to your aid should you get pushed back by the Lannister's from our agreed defensive lines" instructed Robb,

"Thank you for the consideration, Your Grace. But it won't be necessary, the Rivermen and Northmen will hold these lands for you to the death!" promised Edmure boldly, earning boisterous cheers from the said soldiers and an appreciative nod in return from the King.

As Robb trotted his horse forward, Jon arrived by his side upon his own mount.

"The Wolves?" asked Jon,

"You know where they are if you had the same dream as me last night" whispered Robb, making Jon's eyes go wide for a moment.

"We will talk about this later" instructed Robb, earning a firm nod in return from his brother.

The Stark King looked back at Riverrun to see Roslin standing in the courtyard alongside Edmure and offering him a warm smile, one which he returned before marching out of the Castle.

The 10,000 strong force was waiting for them there, with the infantry having already gone ahead in the initial two waves under Lord Royce and Lord Hunter- only the cavalry units remained from the Kingdoms under him, most were from the Vale but there were also few scattered units of Northern cavalry as the Riverlands cavalry alongwith remaining Northern horsemen had been deployed under Bryden Tully to defend these lands against the Lannisters.

Jon Stark looked at his brother who watched the assembled cavalry that would be accompanying them into battles from now on, especially into the Reach. The King looked satisfied as he unleashed his sword and raised it high in the air followed by a fierce battlecry.

"We March!"

The fearsome battlecries of thousands followed Robb Stark as he rode out in force alongside his brother and supporters making the ground tremble furiously as an army of horsemen charged after them to bring War and death to their enemies.

They had made good progress after departing Riverrun and had nearly made it half way through the route to reach Wayfarer's rest. Another day or slightly more, and their cavalry force would be near the lands of the Golden Tooth.

As night settled, their army made camp upon Robb's orders as the King didn't want to run their horses ragged knowing they needed to preserve their real strength to venture into the Reach soon which would involve a long march.

There was a lake nearby and it was where Jon found his brother standing with a group of Stark guards maintaining a respectful distance but still near to come to their King's defense. They all bowed before him respectfully and greeted him which made Jon smile, as many men had started doing the same after his victories and even more after he was legitimized.

And he had to thank his brother for that who had accepted him with open arms despite the truth of Jon's parentage.

It was why Jon was shocked upon seeing Robb's eyes were moist and sadly staring at the lake ahead of them.

"Brother?" asked Jon worriedly, making the King look at him hesitantly.

"It's nothing. Just remembered all those we have lost. Father, Arya, Lady, Jory, all of our household men and women lost in King's landing, my friends- Theon, Lucas, Eddard and Torrhen Karstark...so many more faces flash before my eyes" confessed Robb in a whisper,

Jon understood his brother's feelings as he remembered the loss of Arya, Sam and Robin Flint. Even the men who had followed him into battle.

"We will lose many more before this war is over, Robb. But we have to keep moving forward and avenge them. For Father, our friends and Arya" reminded Jon with a cold determination, as he remembered the horrible manner in which his dearest sister had been murdered.

Robb paused and wondered if it was the right time to tell Jon the truth about their lost sister.

He deserves to know.

"You have been having wolf dreams more lately, haven't you? Like you were Ghost running through the forest" said Robb carefully,

"You had the same dream last night?" asked Jon hesitantly, earning a nod from Robb.

"I think we are Wargs, Brother. Bonded to our wolves and can slip into their bodies. Greywind and Ghost are searching for Nymeria. But they will be disappointed if they found her somehow"

Jon was quite surprised upon hearing what was said by the King and his stern look demanded an explanation making Robb sigh.

"Before Arya died, she begged us to make the Lannister's pay for their crimes against our family. But that was not her dying wish" confessed Robb, making Jon's eyes go wide in shock.

"What was it and why did you keep it from me for so long?" questioned Jon angrily, making Robb look away sadly.

"You were grieving and needed time, the same as I did. We achieved a part of our vengeance when you executed Jaime, but to accept the truth- you had to grieve first" answered Robb, his gaze looking far into the skies.

"You aren't making sense, Robb. Speak plainly to me!" said Jon impatiently,

"Arya was a Warg like us. Her dying wish was for the two of us to find Nymeria because while her body died, our sister's spirit warged into Nymeria and lives on in her"

Robb watched a series of emotions appearing on his brother's face one after another.

It started with Shock, followed by disbelief, then anger and finally ended in a desperate hope.

"Arya lives?" asked Jon, the joy in his brother's voice nearly crushed Robb's heart but he had to be honest.

It was why he told him all about the dream he had in the weirwood in Harrenhal, of meeting Torrhen's Stark ghost who truly unveiled this hidden truth to Robb and all the wolf dreams he had been having more and more ever since.

Jon was stunned as a few things started making sense as to why their wolves were so desperate and out there hunting for Nymeria.

"Jon...if this turns out to be true, then you must understand- Arya will never be human again" said Robb gravely,

He watched the harsh truth only made Jon clench his fists bitterly as a bloody storm raged within his eyes.

"I'll kill them all. Everyone of those golden shits and the Tyrell's who support those butchers!" swore Jon murderously, earning a hard but determined look from Robb.

"We will make them pay dearly in blood, Brother" promised Robb, as he placed his hand upon Jon's shoulder.

Jon nodded and they settled into a long silence to stare at the lake in front of them. Neither realized how long they just stood there beside each other until Jon finally spoke...

"Arya always wanted to be free and not be a Lady. She would have called you stupid and tried to murder you if she ever learned you promised her hand to a Frey of all people for a Bridge" jested Jon with a smirk, making Robb shiver.

"If she truly lives in her direwolf now, she might just do it" whispered Robb with a defeated sigh,

At that, Jon couldn't help but burst into a hilarious fit of laughs as he imagined a direwolf possessing Arya running after a fleeing Robb to bite his arse off.

Seeing his brother laugh truly for the first time ever since he came South from the Wall made the King laugh in joy as well.

They continued laughing as they remembered all the pranks Arya had pulled upon the both of them in Winterfell so many times, all the shit they had to save her from...and all the trouble she landed them and their family in with her antics sometimes.

"We never should have left Winterfell" said Robb wistfully, making Jon pat his back in support.

"We'll go back there one day. As heroes we'll return to our home to reunite with our family after we have defeated all our enemies. Arya will be with us too even if she is a direwolf and even if I have to drag her back there" swore Jon fiercely, but with a faint grin upon his lips.

"I would like that truly. Hearing you say it gives me hope" said Robb gratefully with a smile of his own,

"You have given me hope too, Brother. Even it's faint, knowing that Arya is alive somehow even in her direwolf...it soothes the hole within me" admitted Jon somberly,

He was surprised when Robb produced a wineskin and raised it high in the air.

"To Arya and Father" toasted Robb calmly, as he took a large gulp before offering the wineskin to Jon who took it without hesitation.

"To our Fallen. May they never be forgotten"

The next day as the morning rays of the sun arrived in the skies and the army was rousing to break camp, they heard troubling reports from an advanced Scout party that Robb had sent ahead.

The King had summoned his brother and Harrold Hardyng who was cousin to Robyn Arryn and presumptive heir of House Arryn should Lysa's son die without an heir. Lysa had been quick to assign Harrold to war, not that the Young Falcon as many called him had refused. He was one of the youngest commanders leading the Vale cavalry and stood beside Jon as Robb heard the Scouts.

"There is disturbance around the lands of Wayfarer's rest, Your Grace. A large group of bandits who were in hiding when our earlier army contingents passed have now started looting villages and settlements. Many smallfolk are fleeing the lands, with a good number of House Vance's strength crushed against Jaime Lannister earlier and their remaining men currently stationed with Lord Bryden Tully at Harrenhal in Riverlands defense, there is very little the castellan of Wayfarer's rest can do to help" reported the lead Scout,

"A vigilante group calling themselves the Brotherhood Without Banners is trying to stop the bandits wherever possible, but there are too few of them to stop the bandits everywhere" said the Second Scout truthfully,

"Who leads this Brotherhood?" asked Robb seriously,

"Many say Lord Beric Dondarrion originally tasked by Lord Eddard Stark to bring the Mountain to justice and protect the smallfolk of the Riverlands from the Lannister raids. We do not know their current strength or quality of troops, but most smallfolk refugees who met us on the way said they are not enough to stop the bandits" answered the Lead Scout,

"Madness and Stupidity. I will not allow these scum to do as they please in my Kingdom! Before we march into the Westerlands, we must ensure these borderlands are secure and its people free from harassment and death" declared Robb furiously,

"Command me, Your Grace. And I will bring you their heads!" said Harrold eagerly,

"They are in our way. I will lead the attack myself, Lord Harrold. My people will know their King stands with them in their hardships and will deliver justice to those that have wronged them" decided Robb icily,

"We need to go into the Westerlands fast and from there into the Reach as per our plan, My King. This is a distraction, I am not saying we let this go unanswered. I know you care about the smallfolk and it is our duty to help them, honor demands it. Let Lord Harrold take command of a company to bring these bandits to justice while we reach the Golden Tooth, he can join us there once he has brought peace to these lands" suggested Jon calmly, earning a grateful nod from the Vale Knight.

Robb clenched his fist and looked extremely reluctant to the option being recommended by his brother.

"I wish to help my people. They have already suffered more than enough at the hands of Lannister's, these bandits are in the way of us reaching the Westerlands. I understand where you are coming from, Jon. The Lords of Riverlands may have declared for me, but it must be me who helps its people. Certainly when the problem is right in front of me. My decision stands" said Robb unflinchingly, his look reminding Jon of Eddard Stark when the lord had made up his mind on any matter.

Jon wanted to argue against the decision but the look in Robb's eyes was enough to show he would not change his decision.

"Then we will ride with you to bring this problem to a quick end, My King" replied Jon finally, earning a nod from Lord Harrold as well.

"Good. Ready the men as per this plan of mine" ordered Robb with an appreciative nod,

Contrary to his expectations, Jon had been surprised when Robb had not immediately dispersed their mighty cavalry host across multiple villages to stop the bandit raids. Instead, the King had asked majority of their forces to remain in camp and only taken command of some 700 horsemen to accompany him.

Their scouts had been ordered to secretly shadow the bandits as they retreated with their loot and slaves in the form of smallfolk women to their hideout within the forest.

They had fallen for the illusion Robb had created and made them believe the King had not yet moved with his force, and they were free to take away their loot and disappear into the forests.

It would be their last mistake as Jon found himself beside the King whose 700 strong force surrounded the camp from all directions at a distance.

It was the first time Jon found himself in battle directly under Robb's leadership, and as he looked at his brother alongside the planning that was executed- he saw glimpses of the Hero of the Whispering Wood and Liberator of Riverrun come alive once again.

For all his faults and shortcomings, Robb was good at War like their shared childhood hero Dareon- The Young Dragon.

As the wolf's hour fell and darkness descended upon the forest with only a faint moonlight in the sky, the Stark King raised his ancestral sword Ice marking the beginning of the attack.

"Take no prisoners among the bandits, I want their heads on spike by sunrise. Save their prisoners!" commanded the King,

War horns blew from every direction as 700 cavalry readied themselves to bring ruin upon the mid sized and lightly barricaded bandit camp. Most of their force was made up of Valemen but Jon also found himself leading some Northern Cavalry units who had volunteered to serve under him.

The Northerners knew their King after having fought by his side in great battles of past, but the Valemen would be seeing it for the first time. Jon didn't miss the brief surprise followed by admiration when Robb actually came through upon his promise of fighting beside them in every battle.

Lord Harrold was quite shocked upon seeing King Robb not hesitating for a moment as he lead the charge of their main contingent by being the first to gallop his horse forward.

"CHARGE!" roared the Stark King, pointing Ice forward at their enemy's camp.

Jon and the Northerners couldn't help but swell with pride upon that sight and roared as one.

"THE KING IN THE NORTH!"

The Knights of the Vale roared back with even more ferocity with cries of the Wolf King as they followed after their monarch loyally. It was in that moment Jon realized Robb's hidden intention apart from helping the smallfolk.

His brother wanted these Valemen to see him come through upon his words, to see him not be afraid in the face of battle and lead the charge as he had promised when he asked their support. It was a risky gamble, but if he was to take these men into dangerous campaigns especially into the Reach- then he had to earn their true loyalty before.

What better way than in the fire of battle seeing their King fight with bravery, cunning and determination to inspire loyalty before they faced formidable enemy forces of the Lannister's and Reachmen.

Jon unleashed Longclaw and rode beside his brother with a mad grin upon his lips, one matched by Robb as the King looked at him.

"Let's fight our battles together from tonight, Lord Jon Stark!" teased Robb,

It was all they had dreamed of as boys with Jon wanting nothing more than be recognized as a Stark instead of a bastard, alongside Robb and him fighting side by side in glorious battles as true brothers.

"It would be an honor, Brother" replied Jon with a true smile,

Together the eldest sons of Eddard Stark smashed through the barely armored bandit sentries, with their Valyrian swords staining themselves red with their enemies blood.

They crushed a small group of men underneath their horses as they got up from their sleep and stumbled out of their tents upon hearing the attack.

Their cavalry was attacking from all directions and easily steam rolled over the ill-prepared bandit forces.

Robb and Jon were grinning as they entrenched themselves into the thick of battle, often calling out their enemy kills as a harmless jest to each other and kept up their spirits in battle.

Their glory didn't last long when their overwhelming force made quick work of the bandit forces who were in no position to face a surprise attack in the thick of night from the heavy horsemen of the Vale and North.

By the time it was over, Robb and Jon were covered in blood, guts and dirt but couldn't help but seem satisfied when they watched their men free the grateful smallfolk who were stunned to see their new King had came in person to their aid.

They fell to their knees before Robb and thanked him profusely alongside his men earning a thunderous cheering from their cavalry forces. The King quickly commanded the wounded among the smallfolk to be tended to and even distributed enough provisions to let the smallfolk return back to their homes to resume their lives once again.

The fact that the King's force had suffered no casualties except for three men with minor wounds was a blessing which all of them were thankful for.

In the grand scheme of this War, this was not even a noteworthy encounter.

But Jon watched the elevated morale among their forces and was sure the tale of this encounter would soon spread among the Valemen like wildfire.

"This felt good, Robb" said Jon honestly, as he watched the smiles upon the faces of the smallfolk.

"We needed a victory, no matter how inconsequential. For what is to come...and our people needed us to answer their call" answered Robb truthfully, making Jon give a firm nod in return.

Few hours later they returned in triumph to their army camp where news of their success lifted the spirits of their main force and brought smiles upon the faces of thousands of men, especially the Vale Knights who approved their King's decisive action.

The cheering quieted down after several long moments only when King Robb Stark stepped before his men mounted on his horse and with a bloodstained Ice in his hand.

His words were simple.

"Ride with me and face our enemies!"

Jon had led men into battle and won his own victories, but there was something in the way his brother led them in War that tugged at his heart immensely. Made him feel nearly invincible, no matter the odds against them.

The same feeling arrived in the eyes of nearly every man in the army as they roared for their King and mounted upon their horses as Jon arrived by his brother's side upon his own horse.

Robb grasped Ice more tightly in his hands as he watched his cavalry army forming up in a disciplined formation under the command of its officers. He looked at his brother standing loyally by his side.

"We'll ride into hell with you, My King" said Jon fiercely,

Robb looked at the road ahead knowing miles away lay the heart of their enemies country, ones who had brought nothing but pain and misery upon his family and people. He remembered the last moments shared with Arya which hardened his heart even further.

"For Arya" whispered Robb with vengeance in his eyes,

"Our sister" agreed Jon with equal cold fury,

After another day's hard ride, they were approaching the borders of the Westerlands and had camped for the night. While their men and horses rested, the Stark brothers were wide awake.

"Do you feel it, Robb?" asked Jon, as they waited near the edge of the forest.

"Grey Wind and Ghost are close. I can't explain why...but I feel it in my bones. I also feel another presence with them" confessed Robb calmly,

"Nymeria?" asked Jon with hope in his voice,

"Only one way to find out"

Jon understood what his brother meant and closed his eyes to imagine Ghost's face. The albino wolf was silent as ever but soon Jon realized the direwolf was also content when he finally found himself in the Wolf's body.

He stood beside his eldest packmate brother who stood tall and imposing as they both faced a vicious pack of wolves led by another large and fierce Direwolf.

Grey Wind didn't flinch when Nymeria emerged from the shadows and looked at her packmate brothers.

Ghost watched in silence as his two packmates looked a little similar and Nymeria had grown larger in size, even more than him. But not as large or imposing as Grey Wind whose mere presence made most of the wolf pack gathered around Nymeria to whine in fear.

Nymeria just looked at her packmate brothers for a long moment before a soft whine escaped from her mouth and for a moment Ghost saw her eyes looked the same as her two legger's who had sadly died not long ago.

It made him whine in joy and sadness which was all it took for Nymeria to rush towards Ghost and for him to do the same.

They crashed into each other and started patting each other happily with their paws and licked each other affectionately, all the while Grey Wind watched in silence and stood as an impregnatable barrier between his younger packmates and the rest of the wild wolf pack.

Some of the smaller wolves from the pack growled and Grey Wind roared right back at them which was the final straw as they all whined in fear and sat down on all fours accepting his dominance. Only when the pack was subdued, Grey Wind turned towards his littermates and approached towards Ghost and Nymeria making both direwolves rush towards him happily.

They played and licked each other happily, and as their heads touched each other in unison something unexpected happened.

Jon felt a jolt pass through him as if struck by lightning and found himself in a white plain. He saw Robb was right beside him and before he could ask his brother what was happening- they heard a sniffle from behind and turned swiftly.

And they found her there.

Jon's eyes teared up as he saw his lost sister standing before them, her hair was shorter than what he had last seen but it was definitely her.

"We found you, little sister" whispered Jon in a joyous voice, making her smile.

"I'm right here" she whispered happily with tears in her eyes,

The vision came to an end abruptly and Jon found himself back in Ghost looking at Nymeria as she licked at his wolf's face affectionately. Grey Wind nuzzled his packmate sister's side affectionately making her whine happily and return the gesture.

The turmoil in Jon's heart grew too strong and he found himself pushed out of his wolf and return to his human form, he found Robb had also returned to his own body and was looking at him happily.

"She lives...our sister lives" whispered Jon in disbelief and sheer joy,

"Grey Wind and Ghost will bring her back to us. The pack will be united again" promised Robb,

"I want nothing more. Did you see the real Arya like I did if only for a brief moment?" asked Jon earnestly, making his brother nod happily.

"It was when our wolves touched their heads, perhaps Arya initiated the contact. We need to get better at Warging if we hope to see her again if only for brief moments" suggested Robb, and saw a terrifying determination arrive in Jon's eyes.

"Then we shall make it happen"

It wasn't statement but a promise, one which Robb agreed with whole heartedly.

Lord Harold Hardyng and the cavalry force had made good progress the next day in reaching the Westerlands borders under the leadership of their King and Jon Stark. The men were highly motivated and there was an aura of invincibility in the air.

He had his reservations before about the abilities of the King and his brother, having only heard tales of their victories in recent past but not seen them in action with his own eyes.

Now he had as did all the Valemen in their force either through fighting by their side or hearing first hand reports from their fellow countrymen.

King Robb Stark was all their Vale lords had promised- Brave, Cunning and Charismatic.

Jon Stark was a talented swordsmen and a loyal commander who had also proven himself. The White Wolf had lived upto his ever growing reputation equally.

Many in their force, especially the ones who had fought alongside their King against the bandit force had started referring him as "The Gale Wolf" for his unexpected and blinding fast assaults upon enemy forces that left nothing but destruction upon their foes. The King had been quite pleased as the name was far better than "The Young Wolf" which was a title given to him when he was still a novice commander who had just won his first victory, or even "The Wolf King" which didn't suit much as their King ruled over men.

They were all even further shocked when three direwolves had met them on their route alongside a pack of wild wolves. The largest had been the King's own battle partner- Grey Wind, whom many of the Valemen had seen in their homeland when Robb came to them requesting for aid. Accompanying him was Jon Stark's direwolf- Ghost.

The last and newest direwolf was an unknown to all Valemen, thankfully the few Northmen among their ranks had remarked it was the direwolf- Nymeria of their lost Princess Arya Stark. What was even more intriguing was the pack of wild wolves that followed after her deferentially.

The three direwolves looked at the Stark brothers for a long moment and shocked the army even more when they lowered their heads which made the rest of the wild wolves get down on all fours.

It was a sight which neither Harold or the rest of their army would ever forget as their King marched forward alongside his brother to pet their Direwolves affectionately before the dangerous beasts which would tear any man apart assumed protective positions around the Stark brothers making the rest of the pack do the same.

Robb turned back to look at Lord Harrold and the rest of their men who were speechless upon seeing what they had just now.

"Advance!"

(Golden Tooth)

A large camp had been setup beneath the Castle of the Golden Tooth as more and more Stark forces arrived into the Westerlands. The first wave consisting of 10,000 infantry led by Lord Royce, followed by a second wave of equal numbers led by Lord Hunter. They had made a tough forced march to reach here swiftly and Ser Barristan alongside the rest of the Commanders of the Strike force led by Jon Snow who had conquered this Castle and destroyed Stafford Lannister's army had made all possible efforts to help their new allies assemble their camp and get some much needed rest.

Now they awaited the arrival of their King with the last of their reinforcements- the infamous Vale cavalry.

They weren't kept waiting longer than two days as their Scouts reported their King's arrival which was why Ser Barristan found himself alongside all the lords under their faction standing at their army base's entrance.

The ground trembled with the familiar movement of thousands of horses at once, but it was the emergence of three fearsome direwolves leading a pack of wild wolves first that stunned them all.

The beasts were galloping forward fearlessly towards their camp making many of their men raise their weapons nervously, only Lord Umber's stern command made them stand down and just in time as they saw their King arrive alongside their cavalry behind the wolves.

A mad grin arrived upon Lord Umber's lips as his voice echoed across nearly the entire camp and every man's very soul.

"THE KING HAS ARRIVED!"

It was the first time Ser Barristan had seen Robb Stark after King Robert's last visit at Winterfell. As the young Stark ruler came near them, the veteran knight saw the young boy's face had hardened due to war. His eyes had lost his boyish innocence and were now reflecting those of a Commander who had led men to victory and killed men.

He was equally pleased to see Jon beside the King, healthy and strong unlike the distraught boy who had rushed earlier to the Riverlands upon hearing of his sister's situation.

All the lords knelt when the King arrived before them making the men behind them in the camp do the same.

"Rise my lords and soldiers, we have a war to execute!" commanded Robb with a smile,

Without wasting any time, the King had called his War Council making all the lords report to the freshly setup command tent within a few minutes. He spent the first few minutes greeting all his noble supporters with the most informal being a monstrous bear hug bestowed upon Lord Umber earning a hearty laugh.

Watching the King interact with his men made Barristan somber as he was reminded of Rhaegar Targaryen for a moment. He watched Jon interact with the lords who had accompanied in his Strike Force with equal vigor and happiness while also making introductions with many Vale lords he had never met before with Robb's help.

Barristan was quite shocked upon learning as had many others that Jon was no longer a Snow, but a legitimized Stark.

If there was any lingering doubt in Barristan's heart about Robb Stark, then it vanished with this last act.

None could dare deny Robb Stark's talent at War or charisma, it was right there for all to see. But his act of rewarding and trusting his brother with all his heart made Barristan understand with certainty that the King was a good man. The veteran Knight trusted Jon's judgment and character after all they had been through together, and the way the lad looked at his King and Brother was all the confirmation Barristan needed.

It was why the old Knight bowed deeply before the King when he formally stepped before him in the tent.

"It is an honor to meet you, Your Grace" said Barristan respectfully, and was surprised when Robb grasped his shoulders firmly and made him rise up.

There was a smile upon the King's face and the respect that no Lannister had ever given him before.

"The honor is mine, Ser Barristan. My Brother Jon has told me of all you have done to aid our family and cause. If not for you, I wouldn't have my ancestral sword or my father's last words. You helped Jon achieve the conquest of the Golden Tooth and defeating Stafford's reserve army...I am in your debt" replied Robb gratefully,

"I couldn't protect your Lord Father due to being bound by oath as the Kingsguard Commander. All I have done ever since is to make up for that mistake, Your Grace" answered Barristan somberly,

"And you have, Ser. I have nothing but respect and gratitude for you" praised Robb honestly,

"Ser Barristan wishes to serve you as Kingsguard, Your Grace" revealed Jon, and earned a hopeful nod from the old Knight. The rest of the lords looked quite curious to the development and were watching their King's reply.

Robb looked at the veteran for a long moment and to the older Knight's credit, he didn't look away and met his gaze with strength and conviction.

"It is true, Your Grace. In my final years, I wish to serve a good King" said Barristan sincerely,

"I can't find anyone more worthy for such an important role in the Seven Kingdoms even if I tried. I want you to not serve but lead my Kingsguard, Ser Barristan. Help me eventually build up this ancient and noble order with good and brave men like you. Will you accept?" asked Robb with a smile,

"I would humbly accept this honor, Your Grace" said Barristan happily, earning a smile from Jon.

All the lords watched the spectacle with a keen eye as Ser Barristan Selmy knelt before their King and laid his sword before the King's feet.

Jon was smiling widely as the veteran knight swore his vows earning a solemn promise from the King in return with absolute conviction present in both of their eyes.

Many were even more surprised when Robb helped his new Kingsguard Commander rise back up on his feet and concluded the ceremony as Ser Barristan now took up his rightful position by the side of his King and gave a grateful nod to Jon and many of the Northern lords like Lady Maege, Lord Umber among others who cheered for him.

With that, Robb stepped before the war table where their aides had already setup a detailed map of the Seven Kingdoms.

"Now that we are here with our entire force, I will reveal our plan of action. The Tully's under Ser Bryden and Lord Edmure will hold the Riverlands for us with 20,000 men we have left behind. My Brother Bran will hold the North with nearly 16,000 men in total. With those areas secure for now and the Vale closed off, we can focus upon our main enemies. Lord Rickard Karstark and the Vale Navy has been successful in rescuing my sister, now they are laying siege to Dragon Stone to end Stannis's hold on his seat now that he is trapped in King's Landing trying to keep out Lannister and Tyrell forces" announced Robb, surmising most of the key developments that had happened for the benefit of everyone in the tent.

"With the fall of the Golden Tooth and destruction of Stafford's host, there is virtually no army left in the Westerlands to oppose us. The seats of Lannisport, Crakehall, Sarsfield, Deep Den and Ashemark are poorly defended after most of their men died when Stafford lost his army and the remaining currently fighting alongside Tywin Lannister" reported Jon,

"That was a brilliant victory. Lord Jon Stark and his Strike Force have my gratitude for their service" declared Robb proudly, making almost everyone of the Strike Force lords grin happily.

"But there is plenty still left to be done. Lord Bolton!"

The Lord of Dreadfort stepped forward upon being called by the King as many eyes turned to him in surprise.

"Take 3,000 men to capture Sarsfield with all haste. I trust you can handle this task" commanded Robb, earning a nod from Roose swiftly.

"It shall be done, Your Grace. Thank you for the honor" answered Roose respectfully, earning a firm nod from the King.

"Lord Gilwood Hunter!"

The head of House Hunter of Longbow Hall saluted the King and knelt before him.

"You shall capture Hornvale with 4,000 men and bring House Brax to heel"

Jon watched the young Lord Hunter assure his commitment to this task as one by one Robb called out various notable commanders from across his Kingdoms for the tasks he had in mind.

"Lord Harrold Hardyng to capture The Crag with 2,000 men"

"Lord Mallister to seize Ashemark with 3,000 men"

"Lord Royce will be Divisional Commander in the Westerlands overseeing all the engagements in my stead. You will have 8,000 men in reserve and will be stationed at the Golden Tooth. I want 5,000 men from this force stationed at the Golden Tooth at all times to be dispatched to our allies in the Riverlands should they need reinforcements in the event of Lannister's trying to overrun them and strike us from the rear. The rest of the forces are free to be deployed for the other commanders should they need reinforcements in their task- not that I expect such requests to be made lightly" warned Robb,

Jon knew most of the intelligent commanders understood the King's subtle message.

Failure would not be treated kindly and stupidly wasting troops for their personal ambitions would be detrimental to their rise in the King's favor.

"It will be done, Your Grace. But what about Lannisport and Casterly Rock?" questioned Lord Royce seriously, earning nods from almost everyone as they all knew what was their ultimate target to truly hurt the Lannister's.

"Once few of our commanders achieve their objectives, they are to rejoin with Lord Royce after leaving respectable garrisons to hold the Castles you have seized. Lord Royce with that bolstered strength is to attack Lannisport and initiate a siege of Casterly Rock- do not try to attack it until I advise otherwise for we cannot waste men needlessly to capture such a stronghold without sufficient strength or a real plan of action" explained Robb in detail,

"And the noble prisoners that we take upon seizing the Castles? Where are we to hold them as hostages?" asked Lord Bolton frankly,

"Send them to the Golden Tooth under armed escort. From there, Lord Royce is to transport them to Riverrun in similar manner. By any chance, the Lannister army breaches our lines in the Riverlands and routes Ser Bryden and Lord Edmure there, I want the Westerlords to see the faces of their families at Riverrun. Even if Tywin and his family want them to march, their bannermen would be reluctant if we threaten to execute their captured family and retainers" answered Robb,

"Wouldn't it be more beneficial to ransom them?" asked Black Walder with a disturbing smirk, earning a sharp glare from the King.

"Not until we have dealt with the Lannister's or I command otherwise! Anyone who disobeys this command and puts our strategy and army in jeopardy will be punished severely" warned Robb icily,

Black Walder flinched and looked away from the King's challenging gaze which only earned a series of nods from the rest of the nobility swiftly.

"I will take the rest of the 10,000 men into the Reach. First we will destroy Old Oak thereby denying our enemy a chance to establish a supply base should they try to counter our hold in the Westerlands from that direction. Once that is done, we will march further into the Reach to seize or destroy their farms, logistics centers and warehouses to finish the critical supplies that feed the vast forces of the Lannister-Tyrell alliance. Should I get a chance to seize Highgarden and take hostages, I shall do so" announced Robb,

"Your Grace, I feel you should take atleast 3,000 more men into the Reach alongside you. We can spare such limited numbers and it will make us all a little less worried if our King has ample protection" advised Lord Royce,

"I agree, Your Grace. The Reachmen will have left atleast 10,000 to 15,000 men as reserves to defend their lands even if their main army is in the field with Mace Tyrell at King's Landing. Should they receive additional reinforcements, we will need the added help to beat them or make a tactical retreat after achieving our objectives" suggested Ser Barristan respectfully,

"We could use the extra help, My King" agreed Jon, making Robb look at his brother and earned a firm nod in return.

The King was silent for a moment before nodding his consent but still advised Lord Royce to always have 5,000 men stationed at the Golden Tooth to aid the Tully's in the Riverlands at all costs to which the Vale lord agreed.

There was a smile upon Robb's face as he then looked at some of his most trusted lords, commanders, fierce warriors and close friends.

"Lord Jon Stark"

"Lord Greatjon Umber"

"Lady Maege Mormont"

"Lady Dacey Mormont"

"Lord Harrion Karstark"

"Ser Wendel Manderly"

"Black Walder"

"Ser Damon Vardon of the Eyrie"

The said men and women stepped forward before their King as he looked at them all with confidence and absolute faith in his eyes.

"Will you ride with me?" asked Robb with a smile,

"To Victory or Death, Your Grace" swore Lord Umber fiercely, making the King smirk.

"Leave Death for our enemies, Lord Umber. We ride to Victory"

The proclamation only lifted spirits even further for everyone in the command tent upon seeing their King's conviction.

"I expect the best of all of you"

"Your Grace!"

(Next Day)

Jon Stark stood beside his brother and King upon the battlements of the Golden Tooth in the early hours of morning. Both of them were watching the movement happening across their vast army camp below as the various Commanders had started readying their respective men to accomplish the objectives given by the King.

Lord Umber and Lady Maege were doing the same for the King's own force that would march into the Reach.

"It's finally time, Robb" whispered Jon, making the King nod.

"Do you remember the promise we made to each other as young boys if a moment like this ever arrived?" asked Robb nostalgically with a fleeting smile, making Jon smirk.

"That we would stand at the front of our armies and win every battle with courage and honor" answered Jon honestly,

"Aye, it's a part of it. But there was another more important part of our promise that you have forgotten, Brother" reminded Robb,

"What am I forgetting?" questioned Jon, now truly curious as Robb turned towards him with unflinching determination in his eyes.

"To Win the Universe together"

Jon's eyes widened in surprise for a long moment as he stared at his brother, best friend and King. It had been nothing but an innocent dream of young boys, but he saw it was no longer the case as he saw actual belief in Robb's eyes as the King looked at him without a flinch and offered his right hand.

Despite the odds against them, he saw a vision of something truly bigger in Robb's eyes in this moment.

A dream far bigger than just a thirst for justice or revenge.

"Already, we have lost quite a lot. It's possible we may lose more, even so we shall fight. To keep our promises and achieve justice for our family...and to make this world better than the one we inherited for our children. To grasp the strength to achieve our dreams and never again bow to summons of those we despise" explained Robb in all honesty,

"You have a far bigger dream now, don't you?" asked Jon with a knowing gaze,

"Aye"

Jon nodded and understood a little from where his brother was coming from, there were a lot of things wrong within their society, nations and their way of life. If they were truly to create a positive change beyond winning wars, then a larger vision was needed- something which Robb had started thinking of.

It only validated Jon's decision to support his brother's Kingship and gave him hope to bring some reforms that he personally desired as well.

To achieve all of that would demand nothing less than what was being proposed by the King, which was why Jon nodded and shook his brother's hand firmly with a smile upon his lips.

In that moment, they both made a solemn promise to each other that would change their lives forever.

"Let's win the Universe together"

Author's Notes: End of chapter.

Hope you guys liked it.

Damn, finally crossed the 100K+ word count for this fic and I'm happy it arrived at such an important moment in this story perfectly. I love writing War fics with politics and little romance mixed in. And I'm equally excited for the so many glorious battles and intrigue yet to come throughout the story.

Without giving any spoilers for future chapters, we have finally arrived at the pivotal moment where Robb and Jon's saga truly begins. Their Wars of Conquest, Justice, Dreams...

All the great lands they shall see, the battles they shall Win and lose, their joys and sorrows...all of it.

This solemn promise of theirs to each other, of winning the Universe will take them further beyond most notable figures in the histories of the Seven Kingdoms. The grand vision that I have in my mind is just getting started and we have a very long way to go.

A humble request to all my thousand plus readers to leave a Review whenever possible so I can know how you are going through this story. It motivates me even more than you can imagine when I hear from you as writing to a silent audience can be a bit dull sometimes.

So Review, please?

Until Next Time,

Blackwolf501