Warg Maiden
Disclaimer: I do not own Game of Thrones
Chapter 32: A Good Heart
Imogen's POV
I've never thought much about being a mother since the Three-Eyed Raven took me under his wing. The manipulation and lack of exposure diminished such desires, especially when I was convinced I would have been with Bloodraven. The Children of the Forest hardly populate. With their slight immortality and the male population practically diminished, I never saw them raise a child of their own. Yet when I was under their care, they took me in as one of their own.
So, when I returned to the world of Men, it was strange. At first, children would fear me, yet their curiosity would get the better of them to approach. Primarily for Skadi, as they wanted to ride her. I'd allow it, and Ygritte helped me to be social. But those are mere passings.
Now, I have two girls in my custody whose mother's fate is undetermined. I had Frigg stay with Karsi to keep an eye on her. From what I could see through the owls' eyes, the elders were trying to keep her alive. If Karsi manages to survive, she will have to live with many scars. It was a struggle as Willa and Johnna kept asking about any sightings of their mother. Tormund and I agreed to keep the information hidden until we know for sure of Karsi's fate.
Yet, seeing their worry was eating me alive. I was struggling to tend to these girls while dealing with the guilt. So many Free Folks are dead because of the Night King and his army. Tormund assured me many chose to stay instead of taking Jon's offer. Yet those people didn't consider the Dead outside the gate. And then the encounter with the Night King. I saw him in person for the first time. I feel the coldness consuming my flesh to near pain from the markings.
Seeing the creature that I had to kill.
A creature that was once human turned into a monster of ice.
It was too much.
I cried. I truly cried. That was not a moment before masking, but I actually cried in the pain and grief. Tormund, stepping out of his comfort, lent me his support as I cried into his furs. I cried for all the people that I had lost in the past year. Ygritte, Mance, Orell, and those who fought alongside me. And yet, I was still alive while the people I tried to protect were dying.
I knew deep down that I would die in the Great War. My end will be when I encounter the Night King with the Raven and a Dragon under a Weirwood tree. The only question is, will the Night King perish alongside me?
Things now have gotten worse with Willa and Johnna under my care. Karsi asked me to watch over her daughters if anything happened to her. I promised to ease her worry, not knowing what fate had in store. But there is a slight problem. I was Jon's Ward, bound to him until the war. A prisoner to ensure Boudica and Fenrir keep their promise that the Free Folk at the Nightfort don't attack the villages in the North. The girls would be in constant danger at Castle Black, especially with rapists there.
Therefore, I pray that Karsi survives this ordeal or finds some way to get the girls to Boudica. I'm sure my mother can take the girls under her care and raise them to be the next priestess, shieldmaiden, or spearwife. The girls are emotionally exhausted, sleeping or cuddling with Skadi and Wun Wun. Both are not bothered by this.
For me, I was just drained. Unable to respond or comprehend, I sat against Skadi and let my thoughts go blank. However, my mind was spiraling out of control in what happened in Hardhome. Tormund managed to recover quickly, ensuring I was fed and drank water. Although he was not pleased, his strong liquor was gone. Drank away after the first night of surviving the massacre.
I glanced at the deck and saw Jon walking along, talking to Edd and a crew member. It has been a few days since the massacre. Since I last spoke with Jon. He should be recovering after being beaten by a White Walker. Yet, he continues checking on his brothers and the Free Folk on the ship.
Once done with his conversation, he looked around until he spotted me. Edd seemed to notice his stare, saying something that had Jon shake his head. Afterward, the two went their separate ways. Jon made his way over and then stood in front of me. I was on the ground, leaning against Skadi, who was sleeping at the moment.
"We will be in Eastwatch in a few days," he announced.
"And then what?" I asked.
"We make our way to Castle Black and have the Free Folk cross the Wall," he answered.
I glared at him, "So you're gonna have us cross through the curse side of the Wall."
"Imogen," Jon sighed.
"No, Jon, you're still putting them at risk," I accused. "The Army of the Dead may be at the Hardhome, but it doesn't stop those that die near the Wall to attack. Or even the White Walkers."
Jon realized what I meant and sighed, "We can't have thousands of people walking through the south of the Wall when there are towns and villages that are afraid. Also, don't the Free Folk deserve to cross through knowing they are safe."
I glared at him, "Whatever you say, Lord Commander."
"Imogen," he groans in frustration. "Trust me."
I snorted, for trust goes both ways, and so far, it's hard to trust Jon.
Jon continued, "Afterwards, we will send them to the Nightfort, where they will be safe."
I only nodded.
Jon took a deep breath, opened his mouth to speak, and sighed, "How are you feeling?"
I scoffed, "What do you think?"
He shook his head.
"Look, right now, my worries are on Karsi," I said softly to ensure no one was listening. "She's on another ship, and I don't know if she will survive. I pray to the gods she will. For I can't raise her daughters in Castle Black."
Jon nodded in agreement.
"I know I agreed to be your ward…but if Karsi doesn't survive, will you allow me to leave to escort the girls to my mother. I will leave my spear to ensure I return."
Jon thought about it, "As long as Edd joins you."
I sighed in relief with a nod. At least Jon was not heartless like those in The Night's Watch.
Jon stared at me momentarily, opening his mouth to speak, but stopped himself. He sighed before saying, "Get some rest."
I only nod since there is nothing else to say at the moment.
For the next few days, I observed the ocean, savoring my freedom before I was confined to Castle Black. I'll be back to being locked up in my room until Jon needed something or until the Crows tried to eliminate me. Even if Jon gave his words for my protection, there are Crows who will not listen.
When we docked on the cursed side of the Wall, the Sea Crows were at the ready, not for battle but with supplies that Jon had ordered. It took some time to get the survivors on land. As I stood by their side, the girls were on Skadi for their protection. I was keeping an eye out, looking to find any members of the Ice River Clans on the Antler River.
Hours passed, and I was tempted to warg into Frigg when, all of a sudden, the owl landed on my shoulder. I winced as her talons dug deep. I glanced at her, about to speak, when Willa screamed, "Mum!"
She nearly fell off Skadi, and I caught her.
I set her down, followed by Johnna, as the two girls started running in the same direction as Clan members were aiding a person through the docks. The girls shouted as the person lifted their head to reveal Karsi. She was alive, though, based on her condition, frail. The girls practically tackled their mother to the ground as she wrapped her arms around them in near tears. I sighed in relief, glad to see she was still alive.
Once she gets to the Nightfort, I'm sure Boudica can help her recover.
I stood there watching them. Thinking back to when Ygritte helped me back to my Clan. Fenrir was doing trade in the Red Clan, and when he saw me, it took a moment for him to recognize me, yet seeing Skadi by my side and the torc I wore as a bracelet at the time had him recognize me. The man who stood firm broke down as he held me in his arms. My eyes water as I try to reciprocate his feelings. My mother, Boudica, when she saw me, she broke down in tears and held me tightly. As did my brothers, Ethan and Aiden. Let's just say when I was brought to Lunar Haven after talking with Mance, none left my side.
Slowly, they helped me back to the Dire Culture. Especially being there as Boudica inked my neck to give me the family crest. Now, I would do anything to protect my family, my Clan, and all those who live beyond the Wall. And that includes Karsi and her daughters.
Karsi looked up at me. Her face was severely injured with wounds that were clean, yet clear that her face was scratched by wight nails.
"Thank you," Karsi said.
For a Free Folk to give thanks is rare and meaningful, like gold.
"You're welcome," I said.
Karsi nodded as she kissed both of her girl's foreheads.
.o0o.
What took five days of nonstop galloping took nearly two weeks to get back to Castle Black. With the numbers and still recovering from the battle, it had taken a toll. I did my best to treat those who were severely injured. Stitching flesh and other medical needs that Boudica and Bloodraven have taught me. When traveling, I stayed by Karsi and her children's side. Karsi and the girls rode on Skadi to make travel easier. Especially for the Chieftess to rest.
When I was not tending those in need, I was with Tormund by the fire. He told his stories, especially the supposed encounter with the bear. I doubt he fucked a she-bear, but hearing his stories was relaxing. Jon and Edd walked around, ensuring things were secured, and soon joined us by the fire.
We know the dangers that lie in the True North. Let alone, we have been traveling on the curse side of the Wall. Never knowing if a wight or an Other is hiding in the Haunted Forest. I don't think anyone truly slept in the last two weeks.
Let alone the blizzard that came that we took refuge in the Haunted Forest.
When we reached the Gate to Castle Black, we all made our way through the open field, standing by the gate. It was close to what I expected. Up on the top of the Wall, we could make out that the Crows were standing perched, ready to strike if need be. Jon stood at the front with Tormund and Edd by his side. I stood behind Skadi, securing Karsi and her girls. Out of all the Free Folk, she deserves to cross.
Tormund raised his hand as someone yelled halt. We all stopped, waiting for the gate to open.
Now, we are waiting for Ser Alliser to open the gate.
Time seemed to vanish as we all stood there waiting.
Jon glanced at Edd before stepping forward.
The Free Folk will go after Jon if the Crows don't open the gate. Returning to Eastwatch or continuing to the Shadow Tower, where their gates work, would be tedious. However, we all wanted to get out of the cursed side of the Wall. I was mainly ready to hurt Jon, for I told him we should travel on the safe side, yet he believed the Southerners would not approve.
A rumbling could be heard as the gate started to open. I sighed in relief, knowing we had brought the survivors to sanctuary. We watched as the iron door rose, allowing entrance. Once it was fully opened, we made our way through the tunnel.
I could feel the change in the atmosphere. The Wall deflected the Night King's curse and the ability to easily breathe as the air became slightly warmer. Willa and Johnna were in awe, being able to see the inside of the Wall, while Karsi remained on guard.
When we got to the other side, the Crows were cautious. However, Men who serve Lord Overton were there, ready to lead the escort. There was no room for Castle Black, and we know they will be safe once they reach the Night Fort.
I helped Karsi onto a wagon, along with the girls.
"You're not coming?" Johnna asked.
"I'm afraid not," I told her.
"Why?" Willa asked.
I forced a smile, "Someone has to keep the Crows in check."
The girls, including Karsi, frown at this.
"Will you be safe here?" Karsi asked.
"I do not know," I told her honestly.
Her frown deepened.
I took her hand, "Get your girls to the Nightfort. Enjoy the peace you'll have before the Long Night."
Karsi nodded as she squeezed my hand back.
With nothing else to say, I stepped back, watching the wagon depart with the caravan that would take them to the Nightfort.
Tormund came over, resting a hand on my shoulder, "Little Crow has told me to take them to the Nightfort."
"They trust you; they need to know they are in good hands," I told him.
Tormund scowled, "But you are here."
I faced him, "I know."
"I don't like this," he said.
I glance over my shoulders, seeing the Crows who disagree with Jon's decision glaring at everyone, "None of us do."
Tormund glared at them.
"But we must do what we can for the Long Night."
Tormund sighed but nodded as he gave my shoulder a hard squeeze before going with the survivors. He'll be back. As he will not leave me here for long. But I was a ward…a hostage to ensure the Dires and the Free Folk keep the peace.
.o0o.
Jon's POV
Jon stood by, watching the survivors travel through the tunnel and into the North. Seeing caution and relief written on their faces. If it weren't for Lord Overton's men, there might have been chaos between his brothers and the wildlings. However, things have been as civil as possible so far.
Sam came over to him, and for once, Jon was glad to have his best friends here—including Ghost, who sat on his other side. Jon petted the top of the direwolf's head, noting that Ghost had grown yet again. Imogen said it took Skadi nearly a decade to become as big as she is now. And with Ghost being the runt of the litter, how long will it be for the White Wolf to be as big?
The slight distraction from Ghost vanished, seeing the survivors' guilt written on the Wildlings' faces. There were over fifteen thousand wildlings in Hardhome. And roughly half of them made it out alive. Followed by the other half being wights for the Night King's Army. He can never get that image out of his head. A man of white dressed in black armor with icy blue eyes raised his arms in the air, resurrecting them.
Most of all, he could never get the image of Imogen's face in full horror. She warned him of the Night King. Recalling the visions, the Icey supposed Three-Eyed Raven showed her. Yet, in Tormund's arms, she was petrified as if seeing Death himself.
"The Night King," She whispered.
Not the legend of the Lord Commander who took a woman of white as his Queen.
No, the Night King who started the Long Night.
The creature that has been terrorizing the Wildlings for centuries since his reawakening.
And Jon knew he had to help them.
Before the Night King sends his army.
Yet, so many lives have been lost, all because he was following orders as a brother of the Night's Watch. Lives were lost in the Battle of Castle Black and now Hardhome.
A common enemy that no one truly knows about.
"It was a failure," Jon murmured.
"It wasn't," Sam tried to reassure.
Jon looked at him, "I went to save them. I failed."
"You didn't fail him. Or him. Or her." Sam said, gesturing to the wildlings, especially a father carrying his daughter. "Every one of them is alive because of you and no one else."
Jon faced Sam again, "I don't think that facts lost on them."
His attention turned to brotherhood members glaring at the Free Folk. Sam and Edd follow his stare, seeing all of it. The disdain and hatred towards the survivors.
Soon, Wun Wun came out of the tunnel, terrifying the Night's Watch in utter shock. Yet the giant continues onward, ignoring them, watching his step. Including Dire tribe members who came with massive animals of snow bears, direwolves, and shadowcats. Animals that managed to swim until they were carried onto the ships. With the giant, this baffles the brothers to see creatures they have hardly ever seen.
Jon was careful not to look at Wun Wun funny; the same was true of Edd. Yet Sam stood there, amazed to see the giant.
Jon spotted movement in the battlement and saw Olly glaring at everything. Jon knew the boy was not happy with this arrangement, especially when the Wildlings, more precisely the Thenns, slaughtered his family and hamlet. Hopefully, the news that the Thenns had gone extinct would be enough for the boy.
Jon gave Olly a small smile. Only for the boy to glare at him, walking away.
Ser Alliser soon made his way over, which Sam left. Indicating something happened during his absence. The First Ranger stood beside Jon, staring at the Wildlings crossing over.
"You have a good heart, Jon Snow," Ser Alliser said, staring at him. "It'll get us all killed."
With nothing else to say, Ser Alliser left.
Jon glared at the First Ranger.
As his words sink in.
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