Winterfell was huge.
It easily fit the Kings Party within its walls. Mayhaps the Starks boast isn't empty. Thrice he had gotten lost within the labyrinth of grey walls and halls.
He woke up at the crack of dawn and went for a run in his full suit of armor as the Blackfish made him do as a boy and finished with two hundred chin ups that left him sweaty and slightly sore, but no one would call him weak again. A lord needed to keep himself in perfect physical health! Some of the Stark men gawked, but he didn't mind. As High as Honor! Sweat froze on his skin in the northern climate, but it was worth the effort. Jasper returned to his quarters and dressed for the day, and it was a busy day.
Snow kissed his auburn curls, and he tugged the fur cloak tighter. The courtyard was filled with Stark men watching the Stark boy Lord Bran fighting with Prince Tommen. Robb Stark, a stocky youth, was watching them, as was Prince Joffrey. Robb Stark seemed to hold the same opinion of Prince Joffrey as himself. Quite low. He kept on walking along the bailey, for he had an appointment to heed. And the last thing he wanted was to be late watching Starks and princelings fight. Normally, a simple dinner with a vassal was nothing to get worked up over, but this was family. And Jasper hated the uncertainty of meeting them in such a setting.
What if I'm late? What if Aunt Catelyn believes me slovenly? Something tightened in his chest and he hurried along faster. However, his pace was not as quick as he wished. Lords could not run like heathens especially Arryns. He adjusted his collar as he descended into the lords tower. Jasper paused at the door, arm stretched outwards torn between knocking and waiting. He was a few minutes early, and it was unseemly to impose upon his hosts before they were ready. Sweat formed on his hands and the pit in his stomach grew. Men were always judged for their mistakes.
If I make one now, they'll judge me for the rest of my life.
And he wanted a warm relation with his aunt and uncle. All the stories of the famed Lord Eddard Stark, whom upheld the honor of an Andal. It brought him great pride that House Arryn had a hand in his education. More selfishly, Lord Stark was the closest thing to an Arryn like his father left in this world. If anyone knows how to behave as High as Honor it's him. And Aunt Cateyln looked incredibly like mother before her decent unto madness. Beautiful auburn hair and kind eyes, unlike the raving mad eyes that haunted his dreams. How he wished to embrace her when he first arrived in Winterfell, but that would have been unlordly.
Jasper stood at the door, practically set into stone. Reluctantly, he knocked gently against the oak. The hinges turned and a man wearing the overflowing robes of some steward. "Lord Arryn." His bow was deep. "Lord and Lady Stark are waiting for you."
He gave a curt nod.
A small feast lay before him; some bread, cooked lamb, and soup. And Lady Stark sported a concerned look. "Nephew," she quickly embraced him. "You look well and hale." The embrace was far longer than he anticipated. Something lodged itself in his throat. When she released him, he nearly forgot his courtesies.
Nearly.
"Because of your hospitality, Aunt Catelyn, and for that, I thank the Old Gods and the New."
He twisted and turned to Lord Stark. His grim face was disquieting, but Jasper offered his hand all the same. "And yours aswell my lord."
Lord Stark said dryly. "Wouldn't I be Uncle Ned? Or am I merely a lord to you?" Taking his hand gruffly and Jasper stiffened. Did Lord Stark think I slighted him? His smile crumbled to dust.
"My apologies my lord, I hardly meant any slight." He said quickly, nearly tripping over his tongue.
"Ned." Aunt Catelyn chided. "Stop teasing your nephew." He nearly sighed. Everything was as taut as some bow string. "He was teasing, I swear, nephew. Forgive him. The Gods never graced the Starks with much humor."
"In that we Arryns and Starks have in common." Jasper smiled nervously.
Lord Starks frozen face softened. "Forgive me, it's been many years since I've dealt with southern courtesies." Lord Stark put his hand on his shoulder. "Your father was much the same." He squeezed. "Always tried to instill such into Robert and me both." Few men said he was like his father. He looked more Tully than Arryn and he felt a touch of pride.
"Thank you, uncle."
And when Aunt Catelyn suggested they eat, he agreed. It would be rude to refuse her.
He took small deliberate bites, never eating too much, and quickly dabbed away with a white cloth. "I hope Robb has proved a useful guide for your stay in Winterfell." Aunt Catelyn said warmly.
"Match for Lord Jasper!" The Stark Master of Arms voice echoed across the courtyard. Stark and Arryn men had watched with great interest as the Heir of Winterfell and Lord of the Eyrie jousted in the courtyard. His guard had let out a cheer at his victory while the Starks grumbled. He crushed him with the first tilt this time! Three to nothing! House Arryn soars ever higher! How he dominated him and showcased his skills! Normally, he would be modest and chivalrous, but he was his cousin and he could rub it in! We are having a grand time!
Lord Robb lay on the ground grimacing in pain or embarrassment. He couldn't decide which. Jasper dismounted from Arrow with complete grace. He was in his element here. Rules demanded he offer his hand. "Well met," He said as the Greyjoy boy sneered in the distance.
"I thought I had you that time."
"Of course you didn't! I've won tourneys unlike yourself!" And Jasper expected a barb back and hoped for it like brothers in the songs and they would laugh and maybe they could go on a fine hunt in the Wolfswood.
Bright Tully eyes stared at him, blinking in disbelief before putting on a forced smile. Forced smile? He almost wanted to gawk at him. "Well, Lord Arryn." Putting some emphasis behind his title, which tore at him. "How about we try swords next?" With some heat.
"Tell him Stark." Theon Greyjoy crossed his arms in agreement.
Jasper stiffened at the tone. "Well, I'm better than you! That's how it is Stark! I've done more than you! Maybe after a lot of practice, you could do better." A lot of practice. He was a terrible jouster, and that made sense there were no tourneys in the North. Why was he treating him so poorly? They were cousins, and he was trying to make him like him. He wasn't treating him like a vassal with false modesty.
"Excuse me?" Cousin Robb growled.
"Did I stammer?" Jasper said curtly as his cheeks grew flushed.
"We've had enough of your shit, Arryn!" Greyjoy remarked.
Those from the Iron Islands were not worthy of the title of Lord, and Jasper rolled his eyes at his tone. He looked him over from head to toe. "Brave words from a mere Greyjoy." All Ironborn were cowards at heart, put them against any true knight and they always broke and Theon Greyjoy had not impressed him a lick.
"I'm not afraid of the likes of you." Lord Theon laughed. "You won't last a moment against myself."
"You said similarly about jousting."
The image of Lord Theon falling to the ground, arms flailing, was terribly satisfying. Mainly the disbelief followed by the cursing. Jasper knew it was unlordly, but it pleased him putting an Ironborn in their place. Raiders, slavers, and cowards of little honor. At that, Greyjoy closed the distance between them. "You little shit! Forget it Robb, I'm going to settle this here and now with him! "
It was not going how he wanted it to go, and it made him deeply bitter.
Jasper gave a disinterested look to mask his disappointment. "I suppose we are done for the day. I have to meet with His Grace at any rate. I'm fostering his son Prince Tommen in the Eyrie."
Theon smirked. "See, I told you he's a craven."
"Word of advice, Lord Theon don't be so eager to march to defeat." Jasper said haughtily. "Like father like son, I suppose."
With that, he twisted away. Lord Theon lunged at him like the animal in lords clothing. Cousin Robb held him back. Those two had a strange friendship, especially given he was hostage. The Starks were strange like that. They even treated a bastard, a stain on his aunts honor like some trueborn. With any luck, they would not cross paths, otherwise honor would demand he treat him like the stain he was. And that was not a pleasing thought. Jasper continued to give the proper courtesy and offered light nods to Cousin Robb and the Greyjoy boy, and he thanked Ser Rodrick for hosting the affair. It was well done. Even an Andal Master of Arms could scarcely have done better.
Jasper nodded in agreement. "Yes, he's been most helpful and able. You must be very proud." Yet, Jasper despaired over how things had gone. What was he doing wrong? Why were the Starks so queer did Aunt Catelyn drop them on the head? Or maybe he spent too much time alone in the Eyrie. Jasper felt hopeless. Maybe he should go back to the High as Honor rules. No matter how lonely it made him feel. He didn't really understand what he was doing. Were there some rules he was missing out on? He was trying to be playful with Cousin Robb. Why was he being such a sore loser? In the Gates of the Moon, he spent his training around the men his Grand Uncle selected for him. Septons, maesters, and soldiers. He spent little time around boys his own age. Isn't that how you were supposed to act? When he was at tourneys, he saw brothers acting like that to one another or friends. It was embarrassing, it was embarrassing trying. He was probably just overthinking it and overreacting like his blackfish always told him he did. I'm doing great! Everything is fine! Fake it until you make it. He knows we are just japing around.
"Ser Rodrick tells me you did well with the lance." Lord Stark said,
"Lord Theon performed admirably." He deflected. "And your son has shown great improvement. In a few years he would give the best a run for their money!" It wouldn't do to lie to his uncle and aunt, but he didn't wish to speak the truth either. It was just a small fib.
Jasper saw a small glistening of pride in Lady Stark. "He has Stark blood. A fierce thing." For all the Starks claims at being unfamiliar with southern courtesy, they followed it nearly perfectly. The first few minutes they talked about family and inconsequential things. The Stark family was a good and noble one. Only to turn to politics as servants cleared plates.
"Speaking of the South." Jasper said with a smile. "Congratulations on your appointment as Hand of the King." He took a bite of dessert.
Lord Stark's gray eyes flashed with surprise. "How did you know? His Grace has not announced it."
Jasper lowered his spoon. "His Grace bragged of such to any whom would listen."
"Then you know my daughter Sansa is betrothed to Prince Joffrey."
Jaspers faltered briefly. A Stark for a Queen… That was very bold of his Grace. The Handship and future Queen for House Stark. If the Gods were good, Prince Joffrey would never sit on the Iron Throne. A long betrothal between Cousin Sansa and Prince Joffrey would suit him just fine. It would be more easily undone. Arryn. Tully. Stark. The alliance that won King Robert his throne had to be shored up properly. King Robert meant to bind the Iron Throne with the Starks of Winterfell through marriage. He would bind them with a fostering. And the trout swims away from both of them. Jasper wished to send Robert to Riverrun to foster, but he needed to secure the Vale. Harry the Heir was ever a threat. A dagger poised straight at his heart. Runestone was the only correct choice. Both he and Robert would have to marry in the Vale. Ysilla Royce would be the safe choice. All the plotting of fosterings and marriages made him feel like an old man of fifty name days. This was not something a boy like himself should think of, but he was the Lord of the Eyrie and he would make due.
"Lady Sansa shall make for a fair queen." Jasper acknowledged. "However, I wish to rectify a grand injustice with House Stark."
His aunt made a small choking sound. "Injustice?" She exchanged looks with her husband, whom looked just as worried.
"Yes, we have no Starks in the Eyrie these days." He tried to quip. He had worked on them the entire journey. Somehow, it still sounded stilted. "Mayhaps young Bran could remedy such? His Grace has already agreed to foster Prince Tommen with myself as a page."
"The Eyrie is a noble home." Lord Stark said wistfully. "I have many fond memories of such." His hands entangled with his wife. "I would love to send Bran, but I promised my lady wife that he would with me in Kings landing."
"I feel more comfortable that my children are with family." Aunt Catelyn said tactfully,
Jasper nodded, trying to hide his disappointment. "Think nothing of it, my lord. Vows are important. I understand such." You should have made more plans, father. They were faltering behind everyone else.
"But you are our nephew, mayhaps Bran could serve you as a page or squire." His aunt offered, and Jasper could have kissed her for her shrewdness. "Yes, I would certainly find that agreeable. I swear I'll be a noble liege for him to learn knighthood and lordship. I shall work him until he becomes the finest sword in all the North. I-"
Lord Stark chuckled. "Easy nephew. I agree you need not convince me. No doubt Bran will be thrilled."
"Excellent!" Jasper grinned briefly before his lordly facade took over. "However, uncle, I would be remiss in my duty as a Lord of the Eyrie if I did not offer our new Hand of the King some advice and counsel. I know I'm young." He admitted. "But honor demands it all the same."
"And what advice would you give me, nephew?"
"Clean house." Jasper darkened. "You must clean the court of Lannister influence. Sack their lackeys from their positions of power. Ride south with your most trusted vassals and their retinues. You need men you can trust in the capital; it was my father's greatest failing. He tried to placate and conciliate House Lannister. Peace was his aim, but at what cost, my lord?"
Lord Stark was silent. "Jon desired peace." He said. "With peace would come justice."
He grumbled. "You can't have peace with dishonorable lions. They have claimed more than they require and still are not appeased. They are always hungry for power and influence. Only a show of strength will deter them. This peace is false and shall end with fire and steel if we don't act."
When he looked up, Lord Starks face was frozen, and his aunt studied him. "Lord Tywin Lannister would not reply kindly to such." She said and shuddered. "And he is not a man to provoke needlessly."
Jasper scoffed. "It's a farce. Casterly Rock stands alone, my lady. Fear their only weapon. No Great House stands with them. Storms End lies with Highgarden. Riverrun. Eyrie. Winterfell stand together. Dorne is no friend of House Lannister and the Greyjoys are irrelevant opportunists of little worth. Nay." Jasper declared with the certainty of youth. "House Lannister is a paper lion. We only need the resolve to face them."
"This oversteps my authority as Hand. Robert-"
"Needs you to act. The Realm needs you to act." Jasper interrupted. "Don't you see Lord Stark? Only you can do it. You're the last chance for an honorable and peaceful realm." He had to make him see the truth. "You are the Kings closest friend. He'll listen to you. He desperately needs you. Anyone can see that. You were all he spoke off from the Neck up. Make the demands and they'll be granted."
Lord Stark shook his head. "You would have me abuse my friendship with Robert?"
"For his own good." He said, tensing at the insinuation of dishonor, and took a breath to calm himself.
"You would have me behave like the Lannisters. Stack the court with my men. Seek honors like a bloodhound." Lord Stark voiced with unease.
Jasper nodded. "No." His voice quieted. "I don't want you to stack the court with only men of the North." He chuckled. "I'd wish you to add men from the Riverlands and Vale as well. Three is better than one, you know."
"Mayhaps you should consider his words, Ned." Aunt Catelyn said. "They have some merit and it would make you and the girls safer."
"In fact, I'll even lend you my Blackfish. I think he'd make a fine Commander of the City Watch, don't you?"
A thick silence held between them as Lord Stark and Lady Stark shared a troubling look. "He needs to know Cat."
"Not that Ned! Gods, he's barely a man." Aunt Catelyn said, thick with doubt.
Jasper hardened. "I'm the Lord of the of Eyrie, and Warden of the East." He declared with his lordly voice. "I know you northman say I'm a green boy." That pisses grass, Jasper thought, but that was hardly appropriate for a lady to hear. "But I know of honor and duty. I'm an Arryn through my father." His hand was turning white from grasping the silverware. "And I have Tully blood in these veins. I know the words 'Family, Duty, Honor' And the Starks of Winterfell are my kin." He dipped his head. "I know we aren't terribly close…" His voice trailed at that regret. "But I'm more than willing to defend them with steel or words."
Lady Stark nodded with approval. "Tell him Ned."
Every word from Lord Stark had his cheeks turning a brighter red. Hot with embarrassment. Even half a world his mother was causing him grief and headaches. "Did Jon Arryn mention anything of Lannister threats?" He asked.
"Nothing." Jasper said. "My father mentioned nothing." He darkened. "I'm terribly sorry, my mother spoke this madness to you."
Lord Stark raised a brow.
"You don't believe your mother?" Aunt Catelyn said, exasperated. "Something utterly terrified Lysa nephew."
He rubbed his temples. "I know." He frowned. "I wanted to believe her truly. Everything would be easier believing my father had a killer, someone to avenge, but you didn't see her eyes, my lady." Jasper recalled those pits of grief. "She is not well."
"Why are you so certain?" Lord Stark asked gently. "Robert tells me that Jon was well and hale a night before."
"Tis true it was quick." Jasper admitted with a practiced, pained look. "Otherwise, I would have been at his side like a dutiful son. Not in the Eyrie hearing disputes between vassals." He brushed his hair back and shoved his feelings into a chest and buried that chest in the ground.
"Some sickness are quick."
Aunt Catelyn gave him a look of sympathy. "Mayhaps, nephew. But why would she blame the Lannisters unless she had proof?" And those words cut deep. He had thought similarly once. I was a fool for listening.
"Just trust my words to be honest." Jasper said, far too brusquely.
Please, just let it rest.
"I'm sorry for troubling you." Lord Stark said. "But we need to know the truth. I'm aware the Lannisters are no stranger to dishonor, and your mother was a Tully of Riverrun. I struggle to see why she would go through this trouble. Secret letters in the night." Lord Stark grimaced at the thought of courtly intrigue.
"We have your best interests at heart." Aunt Catelyn reached out for him. He batted her hand away.
"You understand not." And he winced at his poor manners. He bit his tongue until blood flowed.
"Nephew," Lord Stark said somberly. "That was ill done."
"It's alright Ned."
"No, it isn't." Jasper confessed. "I'm deeply ashamed." He rose from his seat. "I wish to speak the truth, but I must safeguard my mother's honor. One moment of dishonor should not define her." As if it was only one.
Lord Stark said coldly. "I swear by the honor of House Stark I mean your mother no ill will." And Jasper wanted to trust him. All the stories told him that Lord Stark was the noble lord that could be trusted with anything and his reluctance to pressure King Robert out of love and loyalty touched him. No other lords could be as loyal or honorable. All men would jump at the power and Lord Stark seemed more troubled by it. That is what High as Honor looks like. Jasper thought. He lives and breathes with ease. Why doesn't it come easy to me? Why do I struggle with these words?
"And you Aunt Catelyn?"
She nodded her consent.
"Very well." Jasper conceded, taking his seat. "I promise on the honor of my father I speak truthfully." They gave him looks of encouragement. "I believed once as you did. I believed my mothers word to be truth." And he frowned at the memory. "How could I not? She was my mother and the Lannisters are an ambitious family." He scoffed. "I behave like a boy rather than a lord. I told her I was going to seek justice. I would not let such a crime stand."
"She reacted poorly?" Aunt Catelyn said perceptively.
"Tis an understatement."
"Well, she is a mother." She defended her sister. "Most mothers would not wish their sons to take such risks."
Jasper snorted. "That is not her crime. I would not fault her for that." He recalled the argument it still rung in his ears. The horrible things they said of the other. "I had informed her of my choice and she was deathly quiet, before ranting and raving about Lannister treachery. How I should hide like a coward." His voice dripped with disdain. "I commanded her to accept my choice, and she went into my brother's room." He faltered briefly. I was barely a lord. Jasper remembered. For barely a moon and he nearly failed.
Failed Robert and the Vale.
"He was kicking and screaming, as she dragged him to the Moon Door." He winced as the pain overcame him. "And she threatened too…" He refused to say the dishonor. "Thankfully, I convinced her otherwise."
"This is not Lysa." His aunt protested. "Surely you don't believe such Ned?"
Lord Stark said quietly. "Peace, Cat. The lad speaks the truth. It's too vile of a thing to lie over."
"Nor my mother." Jasper conceded. "But she did it all the same. You must understand, that was not my mother. She doesn't know what she says. I hope her time in Riverrun will prove just and she regains her sense."
Silence held thick between them. For what could they say after that? "My lord, I mislike House Lannister, but I know in my mind they didn't kill my father. I hope you believe me honest."
"I do." Lord Stark said gravely. "And I look forward to working with you in helping Robert." Despite a sharp look, his aunt embraced him and said her farewells. He promised to escort Lady Arya to the Great Feast. A slender girl with a long face of a Stark.
Afterwards, when he was alone, his hand shook. I didn't speak the whole truth… The rambling voice of his mother echoed in his skull. When she dangled Robert over the Moondoor…
"Mother?" He asked as his brother wailed. "Release him this instant!"
A crazed look burned in her bright blue eyes as the winds from the moon door howled. "MOTHER! MOTHER! MOTHER!" Robert cried out.
"As my lord commands."
She tossed him out the Moon Door.
Robert screamed.
Jasper dove, scrapping his knees across hard floors and barely caught him. The momentum nearly taking him over the edge. Wind kissed his cheeks and Roberts tears were overflowing. "Hold on." He pleaded, trying to pull him up. "Hold on Robert. It's going to be alright." Mothers heel made contact with his stomach, and his grip loosened.
"I'd rather him die than become a plaything of Royce." Mothers voice cracked like a whip. "Now let him go! Let him go!" Something cracked when she struck him.
"Mother." He whimpered. Robert was slipping…
Stop thinking about it. Jasper commanded.
Robert is safe. And she'll never harm either of you again. Instead, he thought of happy songs with kind mothers and noble fathers with smiles and laughter. Heroes beating the villains. Knights rescuing fair maidens in towers.
He navigated across the bailey and past the courtyard to the stables. He needed to see Arrow, to feel his sleek fur and gentle neighing. To brush him until he could think of nothing else. None of the stableboys were nearby his private stall. He had made it painfully clear that he wouldn't tolerate a soul near his beast. He trained him to whine when someone was with him that was not himself. Jasper unlocked the stall and was going to give whomever it was a piece of his mind. He was not having a good day.
A boy was with him. Defying him. A mere commoner with lowborn blood.
"You!" He snapped, seething. Jasper knew commoners were stupid, but this was incredible. How stupid are they? Don't they know rules I'm honor bound to follow? You best have a good excuse or I'll punish you for this disobedience. The boy stilled as he yanked him roughly. "What do you have to- " He expected it to be a stableboy, not the long face of a Stark.
"Cousin Arya?"
"Let me go!" Arya said, trying to squirm away. He released her awkwardly, and he beamed at the chance to make an acquaintance with her. "Oh, did you want to see my horse?" His voice became cheerful. "Arrow bow! A lady is here!" Arrow did as bid as he taught him and bowed his head. He loved teaching Arrow tricks. Horses were very intelligent and noble creatures.
"I don't care about your dumb horse! " She pouted her lips. "Your stupid for thinking that!" Her frozen face turned into a scowl. "And I'm not a lady!"
"But Arrow is great. He does a lot of tricks!" Jasper said quickly, trying to stave off disaster. It was the first thing that came to mind to win her over, and he wanted her to like him. "He answers yes or no, jumps on command, he whines if someone is in the pen when I approach. And a lot of other things! You can feed him!" He handed her a carrot. "Or I could take you for a ride!"
Jasper cringed. I'm begging with her like I'm a boy of eight.
Grey Stark eyes looked him over. "Huh? Does he really do all of that?" She asked curiously. Go on, master! Arrow said, his eyes filled with mirth. Jasper wanted to thank him, but Cousin Arya would think him strange if he did that. His eyes widened and his heart beat in his chest as loud as a drum as he babbled about horses. Jasper loved them and could talk about them for hours. "They can even sleep upright! Isn't that amazing? What other creature can sleep standing on its legs!" Jasper finally took a breath and his cheeks were as red as his hair by how childish he must sound. "And they have ten separate muscles in their ears." He thought she needed to know that. Cousin Arya looked at him strangely. It was a look he couldn't quite place, but she smiled. And smiling was good.
"That's interesting cousin." Arya said causally. "Do you know anything about direwolves?"
He shook his head. "Afraid not. Never thought I'd meet one, but they are majestic creatures." And he wondered how intelligent they were. According to legend, they were fierce and cunning true masters of the wild. Not even the polar bear or the shadowcats were their equal. One should respect such nobility.
"I named my Nymeria." She chimed.
"After the Dornish queen?" Jasper asked. "Really? Most girls would have chosen something more girly."
"Most girls are stupid!" Arya retorted fiercely.
Jasper snorted and stretched his collar. "Excuse me, that was unlordly."
Arya smirked. "Huh," she petted Arrow's mane. "Don't know why Robb thinks you're a piece of shit. Well, I guess I know why."
He bristled, as if someone had punched him in the gut. "Excuse me?" He snapped with steel. "Cousin Robb doesn't think of me like that." He crossed his arms and gave an icy look. What does Cousin Arya know, anyway? It was going well as rain. He regaled to him his accomplishments and showcased his martial skill and japed with him. She must have misinterpreted everything like a silly little girl. She didn't understand the rough nature of the courtyard.
Arrow bent his head, allowing his cousin to stroke his mane. "You make light of him in the courtyard and mocked him."
"But I was just horsing around." His voice deflated slightly. "It's what cousins do." He paused uncertainly. "I think anyway." Jasper's shoulders slouched.
"You don't know how to treat us, do you?"She rolled her eyes when he gave a sheepish smile. "I told Robb and Jon that, but they didn't believe me. They just think you're another southern prick."
Jasper leaned his head against the wood. Did he really think I'm some piece of shit? He wanted to groan. How was he going to fix this? You came on too strong. Apologize to him! Oh, and feed me more carrots! Arrow told him. And he was not going to feed him more carrots, it would make him fat, but Jasper supposed he should make amends to Cousin Robb. He wasn't trying to be some shit head.
"If only I knew what to do with you, Starks."
She rolled her eyes. "Gods," His cousin snorted. "That is quite stupid. You think far too much. It's really easy." She touched his shoulders. "Relax, you were fine talking about what you like." Her voice brightened." Just be more honest like that."
"I was being childish." Jasper remarked curtly. "I shouldn't even bother with you lot." It was too awkward and embarrassing. "I suppose it was stupid of me coming here and trying to make something fit together." He came too late to make it work, but he would apologize to Cousin Robb for any slights against him. "I'll just go back to what I normally do." Mindless courtesy and false modesty. "Don't worry, I'll apologize to your brother."
"I'll show you what to do." Cousin Arya promised.
He waved her off with a lords voice. "Tis unneeded, I'm fine." A sinister look formed on his cousin's face. What are you doing? Jasper watched her narrowing his eyes much like a perched falcon does, watching all the creatures underneath him.
He watched with horror as she stuck her hands in the straw and dung."Like this!" Dung and straw smeared all over his face. He glowered with a wroth look at his laughing cousin. Jasper didn't think he stuck his hand into the filth and flung it hard at his unexpecting cousin. It took her straight in the face. She stumbled back, wiping two slits where her eyes once lay and smirked.
"I agree. That made me feel better."
This is fun! Jasper thought happily.
When she flung another projectile, Jasper caught on pretty quick. Arrow neighed mirthfully in delight at the chaos. Soon Jasper was laughing loudly. "Gods, I feel like a boy! This is fun!"
"You still are one stupid!"
Smack! Wack! The stall erupted into a fury of shit and straw. He gave more than he got. "I thought Starks were supposed to be fierce, cousin! Is this the best you got?" He egged her on. Come on, throw it. Give me the best shot Ayra came out of her spot behind Arrow with a wolflike grin.
He flung his missile, ending with a great thud. "Hey unfair?!" It had him beaming like a fool.
"I'll give you a free shot." Jasper said with a mocking bow. Pointing towards his chin.
That wolflike grin faded. Arya's mouth stood agape, and she dropped her dung.
"Cousin, are you alright?" Jasper said, his laughter fading. He rushed to her side. "Arya," He took a knee. "do you need a maester?" Fool! Fool! Fool! Why was he playing such a childish game with her? She seemed to be fine despite an agape mouth. "Gods, whats the matter with you?"
Cousin Robb cleared his throat. "I believe I am the reason." And he stiffened at once. Trying and failing at a lordly look. It was laughable, everything covered in shit and straw. He looked like some stableboy than a Lord of the Eyrie. "Cousin Robb." Jasper said curtly. "I can explain."
How do I explain this?! He was in no fit place to apologize for his earlier acts.
"Oh, I can't wait." Robb said, crossing his arms with an annoyed look.
"Leave him alone, Robb." Arya protested loudly.
Arrow neighed loudly before eating some hay.
Jasper sighed. "It's well." He said, resigned to his faith. "A lord should know better than to hide a lady from her septa." Arya's eyes widened. "What that-"
"Is exactly what happened." Jasper declared finally. Worry not, cousin. I'll take the fall for this one. It was unlikely any ill would come to him. Worst thing, an apology to Lord Stark for the disturbance.
Robb raised a reddish brow. "Is that so?"
"Yes." He twisted over his tongue. "Tis what happened." Jasper ran a thumb over his breaches. Everyone in the Eyrie knew him to be a horrid liar. And Robb certainly didn't look convinced.
"Mother is looking for you." Robb said. "Fortunately, I've yet to find you." He winked, and Cousin Arya took the hint. She gave a cheeky smile and bolted out of the stables. Her departure left him alone with Lord Robb. (And Arrow) How I wish you were my brother, Jasper decided then. He had always wanted a brother like Robb. Someone whom loved all of his siblings and was even willing to lie for them. To protect them and their honor. Robb Stark appearance made it appear they could be brothers. Both favored the Tully line, and that tore at him, he thought so lowly of him.
I wish I could have been more like Robb
Jasper only had one sibling to protect, and he barely knew him. No doubt Robb Stark knew everything about his siblings. Hopes. Dreams. Ambitions.
"You're a shit liar, you know." Robb said.
"I am covered in it." Jasper said, laughing awkwardly. No doubt he looked absurd, with a stupid smile and a stiff back. Not to mention straw and dung in places he didn't wish to think of.
Robb laughed. "Don't feel too bad about getting roped in one of Aryas schemes." He softened his look. "It's given me many headaches and lectures." Robb brushed his fingers through his curls. "I'm surprised she managed with you though."
"Because I'm a piece of shit."
Robb had the grace to blush. "She mentioned that? Didn't she?" Jasper didn't even nod and Robb winced. "I said it in anger. I was simply was frustrated with how you defeated myself." He sighed. "Always prided myself as the best lance in the North!" I hope not. You weren't even average. And that made sense northman didn't have a strong jousting culture like in the Vale. But Jasper figured that would be ill said.
Jasper shook his head. "No, no, no." He waved him off. "I behaved poorly." He brought his hand through his hair, trying to get rid of the nerves that gripped him. "I guess if some lord came into my halls and showed off like that in front of my household, I wouldn't like him much." And he couldn't help but wince as he extended his hand forward. "I apologize cousin, I pray you can forgive me for being a shithead. It wasn't as High as honor of me."
Robb accepted it with strength. He yanked him forward as he patted him once awkwardly on the back and maybe Jasper hoped things would be alright. "Now," Robb said cheerfully. "I would ask you to come on a hunt in the Wolfwood on the morrow." He sniffed. "Granted, you smell halfway decent."
His nostrils recoiled at the thought. "After a bath," Jasper grimaced after a small whiff. "Maybe a dozen." And he felt very foolish for thinking this challenging. I think too much.
"Robb." Jasper said. "Could I ask you for a favor?"
"Name it." Robb said.
"Your brother Bran is to be my squire." Jasper said. "I wish to inform him myself. My ser, Brynden Tully, did likewise." Of all the days that had been one of the happiest. He hoped Cousin Bran would feel likewise.
Robb smiled. "Granted." He gave a puzzled look. "But why do you need myself?"
"Winterfell." Jasper said bluntly.
"Winterfell?"
"It's rather big." Jasper said, his cheeks flushed. "I'm always getting lost. I doubt I find young Bran before the feast." The greyish walls looked incredibly similar and from he knew of Brandon Stark, the boy was half squirrel always climbing the walls.
Robb gave a flash of understanding. "Very well Arryn," He said. "Now us do a favor and change." He offered his thanks and took a left. "Other way." Came Robbs amused voice.
Accursed halls.
After several baths, Jasper was finally a lord once more. He was prepared for the Feast in the Great Hall. Dressed with a cape lined with silver, and a finely stitched doublet of white. A golden broach of a gavel held it in place. It named him the Lord of the Eyrie. Jasper sniffed, and the baths had stripped any lingering smell of straw from him. The simple door of oak creaked open."My lord." Ser Egren bowed. "Lord Brandon of House Stark has arrived."
Jasper gave a small curt nod.
The boy held the auburn hair of his mother. He shifted nervously before him. "Lord Arryn," He babbled. "Robb, my brother wouldn't say to the reason." Those bright blue eyes refused to meet his. "I apologize if I have done something wrong." No doubt how he gets away with any mischief.
"You have done nothing ill." Jasper said, raising his hands to calm him. "Sit." He commanded with a lords voice.
Bran nodded reluctantly.
"I'm told you wish to be a knight. Is that accurate?"
"Yes!" Bran Stark beamed happily. "I wish to be named to the Kingsguard once day!" He launched from the chair. Jasper guessed, like every boy in the Seven Kingdoms, he could name the renowned knights of the Kingsguard. Ser Jaime Lannister. Or Ser Barristan the Bold. Jasper had once been the same.
"Then you know the best knights in the Realm. Name them the best one."
Bran bobbled his head with all the pride of a 12 year boy. "Jaime Lannister is amazing with a sword. Or Barristan the Bold, but I'm told he is rather old." Brans voice remained cheerful. "Ser Loras is brilliant and everyone thinks he'll make the Kingsguard one day. However, the greatest." He huffed with his little chest. "Must be my father. He beat Ser Arthur Dayne, the Sword of the Morning!"
"Remarkable." Jasper said dryly. "You forgot the greatest of them all."
Bran reddened." What?!" He snapped harshly. "I didn't forget anyone!"
Jaspers eyes narrowed. "Does the Blackfish not deserve such?"
His little cousin crumbled like a weakened castle. "Oh, I forgot about him." He begrudged before looking at him with wide, bright eyes. "Why are you inquiring about such?" He saw an intelligent glint in his eyes. The boy was bright and certainly would make for a fair squire.
"You are to be my squire." Jasper said. "I wish to compare heroes."
Disappointment was plain on Cousin Brans face. "Your squire?" He sounded dazed. "That's an honor." His eyes were looking down at his boots. An easy tell. He probably hoped for a kingsuard rather than himself.
Jasper chuckled. "All is well." He said. "I've won little renown, but don't forget the Blackfish is in my employ and if you do well." Bright Tully eyes widened like lemons. "He might even teach you a thing or two." Cousin Bran leapt from his seat. "I won't let you down. I promise Lord Arryn."
"No doubt." Jasper smile soured as his face froze. "But Bran." He lowered himself to his height, bending on one knee. "Your mother tells me you've been climbing. Is this true?"
Cousin Bran shifted before him, unable to lie, nor speak the truth.
"It is." Jasper answered with disapproval. "Such ends. Boys climb, but squires don't. You represent House Arryn and House Stark and I will not tolerate dishonor. Am I understood?"
"Yes." He said solemnly. "I swear it Lord Arryn."
He nodded and departed for a feast.
Authors notes: Only reason I got this out this out quickly was I have the first 4 chapters all roughly done. Next up the Great Feast and Jaspers fateful meeting with the Bastard of Winterfell.