22 Chapter 20

Two weeks have passed since my appointment as Lord Lothbruk. In this time I have acquired the aid of Maester Luwin in many things. One of them resulting in the completion of my banners.

I had also made a few purchases that would greatly help in my new venture. I even managed to convince a few desperate souls from Wintertown to join us. I simply had to explain to them the great opportunity that lay before them.

I stand at the east gate, watching my caravan make its final preparations. Men, women and even children run here and there. I believe we have four families accompanying us. I hadn't expected so many, but I wouldn't turn anyone away.

My group were spread out amongst them, helping where they could. They too couldn't wait to head out. To create something of their own. And I shared in their excitement. I heard footsteps approaching and turned to see Eddard.

"Lord, come to see me off?" I asked.

"Something like that. I see you've managed to convince a few." He said.

"More than I expected I'll admit. But they are welcome, as long as they are willing to work." I replied.

"You do have a lot of work ahead of you. But I expect you to come out ahead." He added.

"Thank you, my Lord. Is the rest of the family not going to see me off?" I asked.

"Catelyn says the children are busy, though I have no idea what it is that's keeping them. She sends her regards." He replied.

"So she's still upset?" I asked with a small smile.

"Seems she is. Didn't take to kindly to you giving a dagger as a name day gift." He chuckled.

"Even a lady should learn to wield a blade." I replied.

"In any case, I wish you safe travels." He said while turning to me and nodding before tuning to leave.

A few hours later the preparations were finished and we were ready to move out. Making my way to the head of the convoy and mounted my horse. Once mounted I looked around until I spotted who I was looking for.

"Ivar!" I yelled catching his attention. He sat astride his own horse and made his way over.

"What do you need, cousin?" He asked.

"Send word to the others, we move out in five." I said.

"Alright, I'll be back shortly." He replied before heading off to send word.

In five minutes everyone was ready and we began our March. We headed out the east gate towards the kings road and backtracked west. The going was slow, but nobody complained. Ivar rode beside me and we talked of the future.

"I must admit, I'm not exactly excited to be out in the woods again." He said.

"Hmm, you never were one for the outdoors," I replied.

"I prefer the comforts of a warm heart, a warm bed, and a warm body in it. What more could a man want?" He asked.

"That does sound rather nice." I agreed.

"So, what now? What crazy adventure have you concocted for us this time?" He asked.

"We are going to be very busy for the next couple years. Once we reach the village, you Aela and I will head out to pick a place to start building." I said.

"We don't have enough people to build." He said with a frown. I looked over to him and smirked.

"Magic, cousin, that is all we need." I replied.

"Ragnar, I think your expectations are too high. I can wield fire, and I'm quite adept at enchantments. But to create a castle with magic? Not possible." He said while shaking his head.

"How can you of all people speak of the impossible? I had hoped you, at least, would have the vision necessary for what I have planned." I said with disappointment laced in my voice.

"I am but one man, and besides, I am no master." He replied.

"It seems I will have to show you the way." I said. He whipped his head around to look at me.

"You seek to learn?" He asked.

"I have the capability, and now I have the motivation." I said coolly.

"It took me years to get where I'm at, and you think you can perform feats on the scale of a grand master in such a short time?" He asked with a frown.

"I am the Dragonborn cousin, the possibilities are endless." I replied.

"Is that so? Well, I wait to be impressed, oh all powerful Dragonborn." He said with sarcasm.

"You'll see, now hand me a book on the basics of magic." I said. Ivar pulled out a book from his inventory and handed it to me.

"Knock yourself out." He said and I nodded in thanks.

This body was not designed to wield magic. At least my specs were not magically aligned. Yet, all characters have a bit of magical knowledge. Even going as far as having learned a spell at creation. A simple flame spell.

While I haven't trained in its use, I knew with enough practice I should be able to cast it. But I wasn't banking all my chips on this plan. I had means of going about it the normal way. Magic would just speed up my plans, and I had plenty of time to learn.

Ivar had an entire library in his inventory with all kinds of useful books on the subject. Magical theory and the like. And my own knowledge on elder scrolls lord would be extremely helpful. I've watched countless videos on obscure topics about the game I loved.

With a bit of ingenuity and luck, I believe I could accomplish great things. With high spirits I dive into the book. Everything faded into the background as I read. I left the convoy in the capable hands of Ivar and the others. This allowed me the focus I needed. It would take us a little over a month to reach the village. Maybe two considering the fact that the others aren't immune to the cold like we are.

Like that, two months passed. It took far longer than I expected. There were issues with wagons needing maintenance. Having to stop many times due to weather. Also the fact that there are no actual roads, so we have to clear our own path. That's definitely on my to do list, roads, how do these people travel without them?

Regardless, the village came into view and I was surprised to see that the population had increased. Jaren and I would have to have a word later. For now though, I need a bed.