The Red Keep was aflame. The bricks were cool, the tapestries untouched and the corridors free of smoke, but everywhere Ned looked, everywhere he walked, he saw the burning stag.
The castle was filled with the rush of servants, attendants and squires; all catering to the needs of the nobles King Stannis had summoned. After the Second Siege of King's Landing, the Seven Kingdoms seemed to collectively take their breath. Men had to be buried, supplies restocked, and with four kingdoms now acknowledging Stannis as Robert's rightful successor, allegiances needed to be solidified.
"Arya, you cannot wear boots in the court," Catelyn patiently explained.
The Stark family was gathered in a private wing. Catelyn, Arya, Bran and Rickon had joined Ned and Robb in the capital. It had taken all his willpower to keep back his tears of relief when he finally held his family in his arms. Arya and Rickon had grown so much since their journey south, Ned couldn't fathom what Sansa or Jon looked like now.
Catelyn had brought servants from Riverrun to supplement their household staff. She'd gathered enough clothes and adornment to make them more than presentable for court. Catelyn also tracked down the belongings left during his hasty escape from the capital.
Ned was wearing his finest ensemble. Soft grey linen pants, thick stockings and seal skin shoes. His undercoat was fine black silk, embroidered with wire leaf designs. The heavy white velvet surcoat carried a bright silver direwolf badge over the heart, cinched tight by a belt of heavy silver links. Finishing his outfit was a black wool cloak trimmed by wolf pelt and treated with the finest oils Winterfell could procure. He selected a few of the more extravagant rings House Stark kept carefully preserved, set with sapphires and diamonds. Though he did choose an older iron ring, a single black obsidian stone in the center. It had belonged to his Flint ancestors, and passed down to his father.
Catelyn had ordered a new gown before they departed the North. It was light enough for the Southern heat but included uniquely Northern features. The main cloth was a dark grey while her sleeves were stripes of black and white. The collar and hems had meticulous bronze embroideries that matched the heavy round pendant she wore. Attached at her waist, she added a bear skin wrap that Lady Mormont sent as a gift. Her hair was pulled into traditional northern braids but sparkled with delicate crystals Ned had chosen as a wedding gift, so many years ago. In Ned's humble opinion, she was the most gorgeous woman in the city.
Robb as the Stark heir wore an outfit very similar to Ned; similar colours, a leather belt with a single bronze clasp bearing the direwolf, and a white wool cloak.
Bran, Arya and Rickon wore well made clothes of various grey tones with deep black accents. Arya had retained her Bear Island aesthetic with some minor concessions to courtly manners. Bran had taken a liking to his squire's clothes, which included a sturdier surcoat decorated with wolves and waves along the back.
"When can we go see the wolves?" Bran asked his father.
Ned smiled at his son, "Before dinner we'll go to the Godswoods and check on them."
While the Red Keep's steward had been hesitant, Ned made it clear the Direwolves would be kept close at hand while his family resided in the castle. The kennels were too small to fit the whole pack, but the Godswoods were large enough to serve as a refuge. Stark guards remained at the entrances to ensure no random passerby entered without warning (and had orders to watch for any zealots at the same time.)
Donnel Locke entered the chamber, "Lord Stark, the King has opened the throne room."
Ned sent the Locke heir to gather the other Northern Lords. He corralled his family into order and began leading them to the Iron Throne. There were dozens and dozens of nobles filing into the grand room. It had taken weeks for the principal lords of the Stormlands, Vale, and Riverlands to arrive in King's Landing.
Ned stood confidently near the front of the audience. Lord Umber, Lady Mormont, Harrion Karstark, Domeric Bolton, and Lord Cerwyn stood behind him. Representatives for many other of his vassals mingled nearby.
Arrayed around the chamber, the other Kingdoms assembled quickly. Yohn Royce stood proudly at the head of the Vale contingent, speaking with a younger blonde man wearing the red and white diamonds of House Hardyng. That must be young Harrold, Jon Arryn's heir.
The Stormlands had no definite leader. Many of the Marcher lords knew they had fallen out of favour with the King due to their allegiance to Renly. It appeared the elderly Lord Estermont was attempting to take charge. Lord Tarth, Grandison and Morrigen were deep in conversation with him.
The Blackfish arrived last, confidently taking his place with the River Lords. Catelyn had been speaking with her uncle for hours everyday. After Hoster and Edmure's funerals, Brynden had taken up the House Head title and put the Riverlands to order. His reputation preceded him and Robb's victory against the Lannisters emboldened the men. The Westerland border had been reinforced to keep a careful watch for the Old Lion's next move. Many assumed it would come from the Golden Tooth, Brynden wanted to avoid being surprised.
Ned heard the clamor of pages enter from a side chamber, led by the Royal Steward.
"All rise for their Graces!" The steward called out.
Everyone swiftly rose from their seats, conversation stopped. The entire crowd focused on the great throne.
"Make way for King Stannis Baratheon, First of His Name, King of the Andals, the Rhoynar, and the First Men, Lord of the Seven Kingdoms, Protector of the Realm, Lightbringer!"
Stannis entered, his grim face already set in place. He wore a more ornate version of his usual attire. Rubies and garnets had been added to embellish the flame designs, and a fresh stag skin had been prepared for his cloak. Queen Selyse was similarly dressed in bright colours, her crown similarly bore the flame motif and around her throat was a large ruby choker. Princess Shireen wore a dress fit for a royal, the yellow of House Baratheon covered her from head to toe, and a veil covered the scarred part of her face.
"Remain standing for Queen Selyse Barathon, Crown Princess Shireen Baratheon, Maester Ollman and Lady Melisandre!"
Maester Pycelle remained under arrest under suspicion of breaking his oaths and conspiring with the Lannisters. Stannis had appointed a Maester he knew from the Stormlands to fill the Grand Maester's duties until another was elected by the Conclave.
Lady Melisandre's presence was a given. Every meeting with the new King included the Red Woman. She was always there, sometimes silent, sometimes commanding the conversation. Even now she surveyed the room from a chair below the throne, picking out people with an eagle's gaze.
"Lords and Ladies of Westeros," Stannis began, "today many things shall be set in motion. Rewards, punishments, and decrees. Know this, though we have been victorious, I will not rest until the entire realm is brought back under the rule of the Baratheon dynasty and all pretenders are quashed. I will build this Kingdom into one whole, as is my right and as is my duty."
It was no great speech, and many were unsure if they were to applaud or bow. Stannis continued, unbothered by the silent response of his subjects, "My first act as King shall be to appoint those lords who shall serve upon my Small Council."
The Steward stepped forward, list in hand.
Ned already knew most of the appointees. Stannis had offered him the position as Master of Laws. He declined, Ned desired to stay in the South as little as possible, a year was already too long. That was not to say Ned missed the chance to influence the selection process.
"Lord Yohn Royce of Runestone!" The Steward called.
Bronze Yohn stepped forward.
"Will you accept the duties as Hand of the King? To serve, advise, and lead in the name of King Stannis?" The Steward asked.
Lord Royce answered clearly and loudly, "For the honour of Runestone and the honour of the Vale, I will accept!"
A page ran forward and presented Lord Royce with the symbol of his office, the chain of hands which he proudly put around his neck. A great cheer arose, as the Valeman saw one of their own once again ascend to the highest office in the realm.
"Ser Wylis Manderly of White Harbor!"
Ser Wylis stepped forward, already prepared for this.
"Will you accept the duties as Master of Coin? To serve as the treasurer and keep safe the kingdom's riches in the name of King Stannis?"
Wylis gave a gracious bow, "As the King calls upon me, so do I answer. I will accept!"
The Northern contingent roared in approval. Many thought it right that the money-minded Manderlys be sent to King's Landing. With their connections to the crown, wealth could flow up through White Harbour to the rest of the North.
"Lord Jason Mallister of Seagard!"
Lord Mallister looked to the Blackfish as he took a small step out of the crowd. Brynden simply nodded and moved him forward. Another choice Ned had advised against. Brynden needed to focus his energy and attention on domestic matters, he had no time to be dealing with the politics of the capital. His former squire, a well known knight and lord in his own right, was a respectful alternative.
"Will you accept the duties as Master of Laws? To serve as the King's own hand and ensure truth and justice are given to the kingdom's people in the name of King Stannis?"
Lord Jason drew his sword and laid it down as he knelt, "In the name of the Father and the Warrior, I shall uphold the laws and customs of Westeros, in the name of King Stannis."
The entire audience applauded. Lord Jason was well regarded across the Kingdoms for his skill at Tourneys and his actions during both Rebellions. He would be a valuable ally to Brynden.
"Lord Monford Velaryon of Driftmark!"
The Velaryons may seem an odd choice to be favoured, but their naval power was crucial to Stannis' hold on the Narrow Sea and they had declared for him from the beginning. He was classically dressed in Velaryon green with long hair.
"Will you accept the duties as Master of Ships? To serve as the King's captain, guide his ships and protect his seas, in the name of King Stannis?"
Lord Monford gave a formal bow, "As I did so many moons ago, I swear my allegiance and abilities to you, Your Grace. I accept!"
The Crownlands certainly showed their appreciation, the Velaryons had historically been one of their strongest representatives until the Rebellion had thrown their Targaryen ties in disfavour. It seemed their fortunes were once again changing.
"Finally," The Steward said, "King Stannis has decreed the creation of two new titles that will join the Small Council. His Grace formalizes that the office of Advisor to the King shall hold a special place of counsel and shall aid the Hand of the King in the execution of his duties. Lord Eddard Stark of Winterfell has agreed to continue serving as an Advisor to the King, as he did the late King Robert."
Ned had made the concession to display his support and solidarity with Stannis. A negotiation made to guarantee the Master of Coin position, and to ensure Ned could act with authority in the South for the foreseeable future.
"The second position, Mistress of Fire, has been created for Lady Melisandre, so that she may continue to guide the King in matters of faith."
That announcement was met with whispers. The peculiarity of the title, the undercurrents of the Red Faith, and the formalization of Lady Melisandre's authority sat ill with most of the audience. Casting his eyes up to the gallery, Ned noticed the crowd of knights and ladies clapping politely, with their red cloaks proudly on display. The converts to R'hllor had only grown since the departure from Storm's End. Stannis' victory had seen a swell of recruitment, especially among the younger warriors who were knighted after the siege. They had the favour of the Queen and a few key lords.
"On to the next matter," Stannis said, drawing control of the proceedings back. "It is time for my Kingsguard to take their rightful place."
Seven squires emerged bearing pristine white cloaks. They lined up in front of the throne in a semicircle. Stannis stood and stepped down from the throne as they arranged themselves.
"I summon forth these knights who have proven themselves to me, with word and deed." Stannis held his hand forward.
The steward read off the list of names, many were familiar to Ned. They were men who had earned their fame during the Rebellions, a few had distinguished themselves during the siege. He'd listened to Stannis debate the various appointees with his council. What merited a white cloak was very different from a sworn sword. A Northern Lord would look for a mix of loyalty and ability, dosed with a healthy mix of personality, after all in the North a sworn sword needed to have the right temperament to fit his charge. The Kingsguard were murkier. The men who took up the oaths of the White Tower came from political appointments, personal preferences, no doubt a healthy share of bribes. Robert's Kingsguard had been filled with lethal lapdogs, men who Ned would not trust to guard his family but who cut down any they were ordered to. Cruel men, most of whom were dead.
"Richard Horpe," The Knight of Moths, Stannis' men called him. Ser Richard saved the King's life during his attack on the Mud Gate, nearly losing an eye for his effort.
"Roland Storm," the Bastard of Nightsong, sworn to House Caron. One of the men Davos Seaworth considered loyal to the core. He led the charge against the Red Keep and raised the King's banner above Maegor's Holdfast.
"Guyard Morrigan," A controversial choice for Stannis. Guyard had been an ardent Renly-supporter, a member of the so-called Rainbow Guard. Some protested his appointment but Guyard had a well-earned reputation, he even led Stannis' vanguard during the Siege, taking a number of prisoners.
"Lyn Corbray," Ser Sorrow, the footsoldiers named him. An experienced but hot-tempered warrior with a Valyrian steel sword at his waist. His blade had cut through swathes of Goldcloaks during the siege. He slew two of Joffrey's Kingsguard in the fighting, Ser Blount and Ser Moore.
"Thoros of Myr," A choice made by Lady Melisandre. A fully ordained Red Priest standing guard at the King's side? You couldn't hope for a stronger message to the Red Faith. The Thoros who fought at the breach in the Greyjoy Rebellion had fallen into a drunkard who had joined Robert in his sport and revelry. Ned was unsure why Thoros had accepted the cloak, but he looked more sure-footed than Ned remembered.
The men stepped forward and donned their cloaks. As one, they kneeled to the King and took their oaths.
Stannis took his seat, "As you can see there are only five knights who stand. I have reserved the position of Lord Commander for Ser Barristan Selmy, until such a time as his death or his refusal can be confirmed, the position shall remain vacant. There is however another cloak ready for its bearer. In the weeks ahead, I hope to find a knight worthy of it."
The newly anointed Kingsguard took up positions upon the dias and at the Royal Family's side. Thoros of Myr took a stand behind Lady Melisandre.
"Now those matters are settled, we must turn to my Kingdoms," Stannis ordered, "With the death of Lord Hoster Tully and his heir, Edmure Tully, a new Lord Paramount of the Trident must be appointed. Lord Brynden Tully, step forward."
Brynden came to the centre of the chamber.
"As the Head of House Tully and Lord of Riverrun, I charge you with the rule of the Riverlands as the Paramount of the Trident. You will hold these lands in the name of the Iron Throne, you will command your vassals to defend it, and you will ensure its people pay proper homage to your King." Stannis recited the old oath.
"I swear on the name of Tully, the stones of Riverrun, and the waters of the Trident, that I shall hold the lands under my charge in good faith," Brynden replied, the same words that Edmyn Tully had said before Aegon the Conqueror.
Now came the more tenuous announcement.
"Your Grace," Brynden began, "I ask that you bear witness to my selection of a new heir. As I have no sons, no daughters, and no wife."
Whispers erupted, with no remaining sons, the Tullys needed to select someone from outside the main line to continue their family, leaving only cousins for consideration. Brynden had refused the idea of marrying. House Tully needed an order of succession now.
Stannis nodded. Brynden bowed and pulled forth a sealed document, copies of which had already been given to the King and to other close allies of the Tullys.
"I, Lord Brynden Tully, name as the heir to House Tully and the Lordship of our holdings, my squire and grand-nephew, Brandon Stark of Winterfell!"
Ned laid a hand on his son's shoulder and the two walked to Brynden's side. The eyes of the court now laid upon his boy's back. Another long conversation led to this moment. Of Brynden's living descendants, there was only Robb, Bran and Rickon. Robb was obviously already committed to the lordship of Winterfell and Rickon was too young to begin learning his duties. Catelyn and her uncle worried that Brynden may pass on before Rickon even reached six-and-ten. In the Riverlands, a child-lord was a dangerous position to hold.
Bran was already a squire, had a passing knowledge of southern customs, and was familiar with the Faith of the Seven. His squireship with the Blackfish and Robb's new found fame with the Riverlords would lay the groundwork for his rule.
"Brandon Stark," Stannis addressed, "The Crown finds your heirship acceptable, owing to ties of blood and loyalty."
Bran swallowed and bowed, just as he was taught.
"Thank you, your Grace, I shall do my best to be worthy of this station," the boy said, "I also wish to make it know that upon the passing of my great-uncle, I will also take up the Tully name, to honour my Grandfather Hoster, and my Uncle Edmure."
A well-spoken speech that elicited praise from most of the room. The Riverlords would now begin their plays for Bran's favour, and no doubt his choice of wife.
Adopting the Tully name had been Bran's idea. The boy took the loss of Hoster and Edmure hard, he'd bonded with them both during his stay and had voiced his concern that becoming House Stark of Riverrun felt disrespectful. Robb had argued it would help secure his title, being so visibly tied to the North. Bran had actually countered that could become a detriment to his own children, and give strength to any potential challengers in the future. A keen insight from a boy so young, Ned was very proud at how well Bran had taken to his lessons.
The three of them retreated from the spotlight, allowing Stannis to bring the next matter forth. "With the deaths of Lord Jon Arryn and his heir Robert Arryn at the hands of the Lannisters, a new Warden of the East must be named. Step forward Ser Harrold Hardyng of Ironoaks."
Harrold swaggered forward with a smile on his face. Ned swore he could hear the maidens swoon.
"Ser Hardyng, kneel," The King was in no mood for pageantry, "I charge you with the rule of the Vale as the Warden of the East. You will hold these lands in the name of the Iron Throne, you will command your vassals to defend it, and you will ensure its people pay proper homage to your King."
Harrold looked up at the throne, "I swear to defend the Mountains, the Vale and the Fingers in the name of the Iron Throne, with all my strength and valor, and by the grace of the Seven Who Are One. May my word be as High as Honour!" Harrold declared.
Stannis continued to frown, he appeared unimpressed with the young man before him.
"Then rise as Lord Harrold Arryn, Lord of the Eyrie and Warden of the East," Stannis pronounced.
Harrold rose to the cheers of his countryman. He motioned to the crowd and a servant came forward with a blue cloak. Harrold donned it, proudly carrying the eagle of House Arryn upon his back.
"Your Grace," Harrold called out, "With your blessings, I would announce before this court of great Lords and Ladies, my betrothal to Lady Ysilla Royce!"
Another round of applause and congratulations. The new Lord Arryn certainly enjoyed the attention of others. Ned would have to go and give Yohn his congratulations. It seemed the Royces would once again have their blood upon the Arryn seat.
Harrold himself had little in the way of wealth or renown, the Royces would be his main supporters. Would the Arryns of Gulltown take this shift lying down? Jon had never spoken of his merchant cousins, but no doubt they would feel doubly wronged for being passed by in succession.
"Enough!" Stannis shouted. The crowds quieted and Harrold quickly retreated.
The King continued, "My final act today is to set the Stormlands to rights. As the Crown Princess and my heir, Lady Shireen shall take up the mantle of Lady Paramount of the Stormlands and Lady of Storm's End until her marriage. Until that time, when she and her husband take up their full duties, my kinsman, Lord Gunston Estermont shall act as Steward of the Stormlands and Castellan of Storm's End."
The King abruptly stood, "I declare this court adjourned."
Stannis swiftly led his household out of the throne room, the Kingsguard and Small Council in tow.
Confused by the sudden departure, the crowd took a few minutes to orient themselves and began to leave, heading for tea rooms and chambers, ready to gossip and send messages home.
/
"I miss Winterfell," Catelyn commented.
"As do I," Ned told her.
It was mid-afternoon, a few days after the King's first announcements. Busy as His Grace was, Ned was unsurprised to awaken to a summons at his door for himself and Catelyn. There were still conversations yet to be had. Stannis made it clear he would not let the North easily return to its blissful isolation. Not that the Starks were looking to return either.
Ned and Catelyn were led through the many chambers of the King's Wing to a large study that Stannis had taken over. It was apparently one of King Jaehaerys' old rooms. Shelves had been moved in and filled with books, ledgers and piles of paper. Tables were covered with parchment and ink, with a small group of scribes moving in and out, writing and copying.
"Lord Malister," Catelyn greeted.
Jason Malister looked up and smiled. The new Master of Laws was standing over a page's shoulder.
"Lord and Lady Stark," he said with a firm shake and a kiss of the hand, "Wonderful to see you."
"We didn't mean to interrupt your duties," Catelyn apologized.
Jason shook his head, "No apologies necessary, my lady. A small break is warranted I think."
"I doubt I've ever seen this much paper in one room since I came to King's Landing," Ned commented.
"I can imagine. Normally these would be confined to the lower floors, but King Stannis insisted he wanted to oversee their work," Jason explained.
"The King ensures his record-keepers are busy," Catelyn noticed.
Jason swept his hand around the chamber, "As Master of Laws, I have been charged with preparing a review of the current royal records and agreements. The Master of Coin and Maester Ollman have been given similar tasks."
Ned frowned, "The King is worrying over records at a time like this?"
Jason chuckled, "The King and his Hand haven't looked at a single page written in this room," he revealed, "They are focused on the west, and His Grace's enemies."
They made small talk with the Lord of Seagard until another aide found them. They walked through more rooms until they entered the King's solar. Stannis was seated at a large desk, Yohn Royce beside him with Lady Melisandre and Davos Seaworth in opposite corners.
"Lord Stark," Stannis greeted.
"Your Grace," Ned and Catelyn bowed.
"Take a seat, Ned, we've much to discuss," Yohn told them.
There were maps and tokens set out before the King, maps of the Crownlands and Riverlands marked with Stags, Wolves and Trout. The Reach and Westerlands lay opposite, with Lions and Roses spread about.
"Are your men ready to march?" Stannis pointedly asked.
Ned nodded, "Yes, my cavalry have been reinforced and the footmen equipment replenished. My injured have been sent back via ship and I've ordered the garrison at Deepwood Motte doubled. Reserves are beginning to gather at the Neck and will march south to Riverrun on my order."
Yohn nodded and turned to the King, "With fresh Northern troops, the Vale and the Riverlands can combine to strike at the Lannisters."
Catelyn spoke up, "Has news arrived from Casterly Rock?"
Yohn picked up a bundle of letters, "Reports and rumors, not nearly as many as we'd like. Lord Varys has yet to reappear and only a small portion of his network is known to us. We've Ser Davos to thank for most of this news, his connections among the sailors and docks has proven very valuable."
Ser Davos simply inclined his head, a stoic frown on his face.
"An official declaration arrived this morning," Stannis revealed, handing over a thick parchment to Ned.
"In the name of King Joffrey Baratheon…" Ned read through the typical titles and exaltation, "the true King of the Seven Kingdoms, I denounce the actions of my traitorous uncle, the false King Stannis, Eddard Stark, Hoster Tully, and the Lords of the Vale. These traitors have left the Light of the Seven and would drag the good people of Westeros into heathen worship of the Red God of Essos or the Tree Gods of the North. Any true and pious Lord in this land may seek clemency, mercy and reward by returning to the fold of their true King," Ned flipped the page over, "and it goes on and on."
"No doubt every keep from Lannisport to Maidenpool has received a copy," Catelyn noted. "The Lannisters have certainly made their case to the Faithful."
"As if Tywin Lannister ever stood in a Sept and made a sincere prayer. Joffrey is many things, and holy is none of them," Stannis derided.
"When did he arrive at The Rock?" Catelyn asked.
"Our best guess is two weeks after the Siege," Yohn said, "A sellsail docked in Lannisport about that time and was met by Lord Tywin and a full company of Red Cloaks. Joffrey, Lady Cersei and Baelish were seen debarking."
"No sign of Lysa or the younger brother, Tommen?" Ned wondered.
Yohn shook his head, "None. We've asked the Imp but he insists the boy was with his family during the Siege."
Catelyn leaned forward, "What is to be done with Lord Tyrion? With him and the Kingslayer as hostages, surely we have some leverage over Lord Tywin?"
Ned placed the declaration down, "The crux of the matter is Joffrey's claim to the throne. I'm not confident that Lord Tywin would sacrifice his grandson's crown for anything."
Stannis leaned on the table, "If he will not submit, then his sons shall pay the price."
Yohn glanced at Ned, "It may be useful to have the potential heirs of Casterly Rock under our power. No matter how this war ends, Tywin cannot be allowed to remain as Lord."
Catelyn glanced down, "The Kingslayer will never ride or fight again. Grey Wind shredded his legs to ribbons. He barely survived the surgeries that saved his life."
"Would the Westerlands accept the Imp?" Yohn proposed.
Stannis lifted a finger, "If I allow the Lannisters to remain Lord Paramounts. I have a strong desire to choose another."
That drew looks from everyone. The Lords Paramount and the Wardens had remained unchanged since The Conquest. It was clear to Ned that the unseating of a Paramount would require not only overwhelming support for the Crown, but also the House in question needed to be in no position to resist. Honestly, if the Rebellion had failed and the Mad King still ruled, Tully, Stark, Arryn and Baratheon would be empty names now.
"Who would replace them?" Yohn asked.
Stannis ran his fingers across the maps, "There are many who would prove more loyal among their bannerman," he stopped his fingertip on Highgarden, "if only I could do the same to the Tyrells."
The King sat back with a sigh, "That is a matter for the Small Council. It's not why I summoned you both. Your youngest daughter, Arya, would be a suitable companion for Princess Shireen."
Catelyn bit back her first reaction, waiting for Ned to respond.
"Our daughter would be more than happy to attend the Princess. I would caution that she is a Northern Lady, there is much about a southern court, especially a royal court, that she may be unused to," Ned explained.
The King looked over to Ser Davos and back, "Those things can be learned. The Lords of the Realm must see your family and mine side-by-side, and Shireen must begin developing her ties to the Great Houses."
"Can we assume that a guard and sworn shields would be permitted?" Catelyn asked.
Yohn nodded, "Of course, she would not be the only noble lady around the Princess."
"Arya is betrothed to the heir to Deepwood Motte, but it will be many years before they marry. I would only ask that Arya be able to visit her betrothed and Winterfell every few years," Ned said.
Yohn looked to the King.
Stannis gave a simple nod, "Until this war is over, Lord Stark, you shall attend my councils. Soon, we will march again."
/