Chapter 31: Mermen and Mermaids

Jon.

Standing on the deck as the ship pulled into the docks Jon finally felt the stirring, there was something special about coming back to the north. While Casterly Rock and the west had been more of a home to him than Winterfell when he really thought about it, he was of the north and it was good to be back. He could see from looking around him that the other northerners felt the same, Smalljon was almost jumping up in down in joy, though whether that was at the thoughts of being back in the north or of northern ale, he couldn't tell.

Dacey, Ser Jorah and Lynesse too looked happy to see northern soil once again, Lynesse had surprised Loras with how much she'd taken to the north, but Jon had sensed there was far more to the lady than Loras had anticipated. It seems the ladies of the Reach were built of sterner stuff, looking down to his belt where the favor was now tied Jon smiled, he had known that to be true ever since the tourney at Lannisport.

Ser Wendel was smiling broadly as he stood looking at the dock and Jon did his best to see who it was he was looking at, there was definitely people waiting to meet the ship and it took him only a few moments to recognize Ser Wylis. Beside him there were a number of guards and what seemed at first glance to be two young girls, Ser Wylis's daughters perhaps, he thought to himself. To his own left was certainly the most excited of all the travelers to be back in the north though, ever since they'd entered The Bite, Ghost had been more eager than ever to stay up on the deck.

Last night despite Jaime's protests Jon had slept on deck with the wolf, he had found a quiet corner out of the wind and brought a blanket that was added to by the large white wolf curled on top of him. Loras had offered to sleep on deck also, but seeing his friend shiver in the cold, Jon had insisted he went back below deck. When he finally went to sleep he had dreamt of who he believed to be his mother, a young beautiful girl riding a black horse like she was born to do so, her hair flowing in the wind and her laugh echoing, just thinking of her brought a smile to his face.

"Looks like someone's happy be home." Loras said as he walked up behind him.

"Aye, don't you feel the same when you arrive back in the Reach?" Loras's own smile was answer enough.

"How long will we be staying here?"

"I don't know, a few days at least, we have to buy horses and carts, supplies for the Nights Watch and a cloak for a very cold boy from the Reach." Jon japed and Loras pushed him.

"Have you ever been here before?" Loras asked.

"No, until Lord Jaime I hadn't been anywhere, my brother came a year before I left but I was…" Jon said and the sound of Jaime's footsteps allowed him to leave the sentence unfinished.

"I think it's time we got the horse's ready Jon, I'm sure Winter will be delighted to stretch her legs properly."

"Aye." Jon said and took a last look at the docks, he could see The Wolf's Den and smirked as Ghost rested his head on the side of the ship looking on longingly as the docks grew ever closer.

It took them less than an hour to dock, in that time Jon had saddled both Winter and Honor, he led them both from the hold and out onto the deck and down the gangplank where Ser Wylis was thankfully finished the introductions. Walking forward to Lord Jaime he handed him the reins and bid Ser Wylis hello, he was thankful that horses had been provided for everyone. Though not a long journey to the seat of House Manderly, he would rather ride it then walk it and had horses not been provided, then he would not have ridden without Loras.

"She's a fine animal Jon." Ser Wylis said as he mounted Winter.

"Aye Ser, Lord Loras's brother breeds both hounds and horses isn't that right Loras?"

"Aye Jon it is, Willas has garnered a great reputation for both." Loras said proudly.

"Well looking at Jon's mare here I'd say it was well deserved." Ser Wylis smiled before adding "I heard about the joust Jon."

"Really it's been spoken of here?" Jon said surprised not by the fact it was being talked about, but that it had already managed to make it north.

"Aye, Wendel mentioned it in his raven to inform us of your visit."

"I had no choice Ser, he insulted my mother and by doing so my father." Jon said determinedly.

"You did right lad, I'd not accept an insult to my family either, wish I could have seen him fall though, Wendel said it was a sight to behold, just thinking about it had my father laughing for days." Ser Wylis said with a laugh.

They rode onwards laughing and japing, behind them came the carriages carrying Lady Lynesse and Ser Wylis's daughters, Lord Jaime, Ser Jorah, Dacey and the Smalljon were grouped together. Jaime laughing loudly at Dacey's ribbing of Smalljon, ahead of him Ser Wendel and the Karstarks seemed deep in conversation.

Passing thorough Fishfoot Yard and it's fountain which Loras found fascinating, they entered through the Seal Gate and continued on to Castle Stair, each step taking them closer to the New Castle itself. White Harbor was to Jon's mind an impressive city, not as large as Lannisport but he found it far more pretty to look at, the whitened walls, the marble mermaids and their bowls which Ser Wylis informed them were filled with whale oil which was lit at night.

When they came to the New Castle itself, even Jaime seemed impressed when Jon turned to look at him, The Wolf's Den was built by the first men and had been gifted to the Manderly's when they were exiled from the Reach, but New Castle was the home they built for themselves and it was a reminder of their time there. Far more elaborate than most of the typical functional castles in the north, it was Jon felt a welcoming sight.

"I'll have some guard's take your horse to the stables Jon." Ser Wylis said motioning to the standing guards.

"I had better do it myself Ser, Honor too, I'm still a squire after all." Jon said with a smile.

"All right lad, I'll send some guards with you anyway, when you're done they'll take you to the Merman's Court, come Lord Loras I'm sure my father will be pleased to meet a lad from the Reach." Ser Wylis said a smirk on his face.

Loras looked at him and Jon just nodded, dismounting Winter he walked her over to Honor and took the other horse by the reins, Ser Wendel had already led Lord Jaime into the castle so he was left alone but for the guards in the courtyard. It was at that point that Ghost decided to reappear, the wolf having practically jumped from the ship when they'd docked, looking at him now Jon could see he'd soon be hearing tales of the trouble he caused.

The white wolf's fur on his face was matted by what to Jon looked a combination of pastry and butter, Jon watched amusedly as his wolf tried in vain to lick it clea, his tongue not managing to reach it all, Jon couldn't help but laugh at the sight. Though this was quickly stopped when the sounds of alarm reached his ears, he could hear the footsteps of the guards and one look at Ghost saw his back arched and primed.

"There's the beast." a voice shouted.

"To arms." shouted another.

"Relax, there's no need to worry." Jon said his words which though not having the affect on himself, at least seemed to calm tensions a little "Ghost sit." he said loudly, his wolf looking at him as if to say, why are you speaking.

Thankfully though he got the message, the white wolf sat and played nice, Jon looked on as the guards lowered their weapons and he breathed a huge sigh of relief. He walked over to Ghost and rubbed his head, before turning to the guard who looked to be in charge, looking at him he could see the resemblance to the Manderly's. He searched his mind for memories of his lessons, before remembering the mans name.

"Forgive me Ser Marlon, I should have kept better control of him." Jon said apologetically.

"Aye you should lad, what is that thing?"

"It's a Direwolf Ser. His name is Ghost." Jon said almost as affronted as Ghost by him being called a thing.

"A Direwolf." Ser Marlon said Incredulously.

"Aye Ser, My name is Jon Snow, he's my companion." Jon said and almost laughed as Ghost gave him a look.

"Aye, we heard tale you had a wolf Jon Snow, though no on dared think he was that large."

"He's harmless mainly, I'll keep a better watch on him."

"See that you do, I'm to escort you to the Merman's court, normally I'd tell you to leave the wolf behind, but perhaps it's better to bring it with us." Ser Marlon said shaking his head.

Jon nodded to Ghost and the wolf jumped to his feet, following him as he walked past a young boy and girl looking at him with great interest, he watched as Ghost walked over to them both, sniffing the boy and licking the girls hand making her laugh. He turned to say something to them but both walked away and so after a moment he followed Ser Marlon, though something in the back of his mind told him he should be following them instead.

Jaime

White Harbor was a pleasant delight he found, he had enjoyed riding though it's bright streets, it was a proper city, something he had not found on his last visit north. Now walking through the castle itself he couldn't help but smirk at the decorations that lined the way, Mermaids and Mermen were everywhere. What was it he wondered that made house's wish to display their sigl's so extensively, his father had his lions, the Baratheon's their stags, the Starks had their wolves while the Targaryen dragon was everywhere. As he looked at yet another merman holding a trident he began to laugh, at least they were far better than trout.

"What's so funny?" Dacey said from beside him.

"Nothing, just thinking how much better a merman is than a fish."

The laugh he got from her in response to his jape almost took his breath away, it made her beautiful in a way he had seen very few women look before. His sister was a beauty though that was only skin deep, queen Rhaella was almost otherworldly as were most of the Targaryen's given their portraits. At Harrenhal he'd seen Lyanna Stark briefly and there was a certain life about her, a spirit that he found incredibly attractive and made him understand why Rhaegar fell for her.

He 'd also seen Ashara Dayne and his mentor's sister was worthy of song, her purple eyes and dark skin making her uniquely beautiful. But ever since seeing Dacey swing a mace, seeing the woman slip effortlessly into the role of a lady, Jaime believed he'd never seen a woman as beautiful as she. Sometimes he'd have to stop himself from staring at her and when he'd find her looking at him he'd feel his heart beat rise and find himself becoming easily flustered.

Shaking his head to clear it of such thoughts he found himself entering the Merman's Court itself, it's floors and walls decorated not just with the mermen and women from earlier, but with all manner of sea creature. Around him sitting at tables were men and women, ladies and soldiers, some being one and the same he found to his surprise, he looked to Dacey who was smiling at the two young women sitting to his left. Up front sitting on a raised chair was someone who could only be Lord Manderly.

"Lord Jaime, I bid you welcome to White Harbor." Wyman said a large smile on his face.

"It is an honor to be here Lord Wyman." Jaime said with a small nod.

"Ser Jorah, Lady Lynesse, it seems your family sent visitors once they heard you'd be arriving so soon." Wyman said motioning to the two women.

"Aye, tis good to see them Lord Wyman." Jorah said smiling.

"This lad, he's not Jon Snow?" Wyman said a confused look on his face as he looked at Loras.

"No my lord, may I present Lord Loras Tyrell, my squire." Jaime said as Loras took a step forward and bowed.

"Welcome to White Harbor Lord Tyrell." Wyman said a little glint in his eyes.

"I thank you my lord." Loras replied.

"Is young Jon not part of your party Lord Jaime?"

"He is my lord, but he's putting the horses away, as is a squires duty." Jaime said and was pleased to see the almost proud nod the lord gave him when he spoke.

"Tonight my lord we shall feast you, for now though I shall have my men show you to your quarters, should you need anything at all feel free to ask."

"I thank you my lord." Jaime said and turned to leave just as Ghost stormed into the room, followed by an exasperated Jon.

"Come back here, no Ghost stop." Jon said.

Jaime heard the gasps and watched on in amusement, the wolf had made his way to the nearest table, almost knocking the man who was sitting there to the ground in his haste to eat the pie which had just been placed there. Ghost's front two paws were resting on the table, his snout buried in the pie and the sounds of pastry being torn into resonated along with the gasps and the boisterous laughter from Lord Wyman.

"Get down from there, this instant." Jon said his hands trying to drag Ghost away to no avail.

Finally when the pie was finished Ghost allowed himself to be pulled away from the table before looking to Jon with his head lowered and his tongue lolling out.

"Really, now you want me to give you water, after that." Jon said before the wolf rubbed his head against his hand.

When Jon turned to see everyone in the room looking at him Jaime almost laughed at the embarrassed look on his face, Lord Wyman though was laughing loudly.

"My lords and Ladies, I give you Jon Snow and Ghost the Direwolf." Lord Wyman said as if he'd presented a mummer's show.

Jaime looked to Jon who shrugged before joining in as those around the room began to laugh, a servant nervously approached Jon and handed him a large bowl of water before she quickly moved away. He laughed even louder at the noise of the water being lapped by the clearly thirsty wolf before Jon turned to look at Lord Wyman.

"It seems you use too much salt my lord." Jon said and the large lord almost burst he laughed so much.

"Aye been telling them that for years, come forward young Jon let me take a look at the boy who's done so much for my house."

Jaime watched as Jon moved towards the front of the hall, Ghost walking alongside him his thirst obviously satiated. As he reached Lord Wyman's seat Jaime was surprised to see the large lord get to his feet and walk to Jon. Before he embraced him like a long lost son catching both Jon and the rest of the hall by surprise. He stood in front of Jon his eyes roaming his face before he nodded and smiled, all the while Jaime looked on nervously.

"You have the look of your father Jon, though I dare say Ned was never so pretty." Wyman said to laughs from the room.

"Perhaps I take after my mother more my lord." Jon said and Jaime had to stifle a laugh.

"Indeed, she must have been a pretty lass, come Jon sit, I know you wish to get to your rooms, but I'd like to speak to you if I may."

"Of course my lord I'd be honored." Jon said.

Jaime thought about staying but looking to Jon he saw him nod he'd be fine and so he, Loras and their guards made their way to their rooms, Dacey stayed behind with whom Jaime had since learned were her sisters. While the Smalljon and the Karstarks seemed more eager to partake in the northern ale than anything else, so Jaime and Loras walked down a long corridor and were brought to a very elaborate set of rooms.

"My lord this is your room, Lord Loras is down the hall and there are a couple of rooms for your guards, the rest are welcome to billet in the barracks." the small slender man said.

"I think my captain can find them rooms at a nearby tavern if you could recommend one, I'd like to treat my men while we're on land."

"Of course my lord, I shall be happy to help."

"Where's Jon's room?"

"Jon my lord?"

"Aye Jon Snow my squire." Jaime said if they'd placed his king in inferior rooms Jaime would not be happy."

"Ah my apologies my lord, Lord Wyman has insisted Jon be given a room in the family wing."

Jaime smiled, now that was not what he expected, was it because he was his liege's son or because of what he'd done for them, or was the crafty old lord up to something. Whatever it was he would find out soon enough.

Loras,

For once Loras was missing Genna's fussing, he had haphazardly packed his things and couldn't find one of the warmer undershirts he had bought in Gulltown. They had been a life saver on the trip through The Bite and now here in White Harbor he knew he needed them, the problem was he couldn't find them, he knew they were here but where he couldn't say. When he heard he knock at the door he groaned, it couldn't be time yet surely, he opened it to find Jon dressed already and with a large smirk on his face.

"Really Loras, you must do better." Jon said in a passable impression of Genna.

"Get in here you fool." Loras said his uncovered chest feeling even colder with he door open.

"Looking for these?" Jon said holding up the undershirts.

"Wait, how did you? Did you hide these on me?" he said miffed.

"No stupid, somebody put them in the wrong trunk, now who do I know who's empty headed enough to do such a thing." Jon japed.

Loras couldn't help but laugh, the two chests did look the same, Jon's other chest was a much darker wood, but the one he kept his clothes in and Loras's were both bought by Genna for them. He took the undershirt and quickly put it on, dressing himself rather fast once he'd done so, as he was checking his hair he was again interrupted by a knock on the door, thankfully Jon answered leaving him to his own devices.

"There you are Jon, you should have let me known where you'd be." a tall brown haired girl said.

"Indeed sister how very mean of him." a younger small blond said from beside her a smirk on her face.

"I'm sorry my lady, it seemed my friend needed some help to look presentable. Loras are you ready yet?" Jon said and Loras cringed both at the mocking in his friends voice and the giggles from the two girls.

"I'm ready." Loras said walking to the door.

"Ah finally, Lady Wynafred, Lady Wylla may I introduce Lord Loras Tyrell." Jon said with a bow.

"Lord Tyrell, may I present Lady Wynafred and her sister Lady Wylla Manderly, whom we have the honor of accompanying tonight."

"My ladies, " Loras said with a perfect bow.

"Well at least this one knows how to bow properly, not like you Jon." Wylla said mischievously.

"Lord Loras is far more refined than me my lady, for I'm just a northern savage." Jon said and both girls giggled.

"Shall we." Lady Wynafred said holding out her arm which Jon took."

"My lord." Lady Wylla said an even bigger smirk now on her face.

"My lady." he replied as he took her arm.

Jon and Wynafred spoke in front of him almost effortlessly and Wylla beside him was an absolute chatterbox, switching subjects while giggling every few moments. Loras though felt decidedly uncomfortable when they reached the rest of the party, all of them standing waiting to enter the room. Ahead of him Ser Wylis stood with a woman who was clearly the mother of the two girls he and Jon accompanied. Lord Jaime stood with Lady Dacey while Ser Jorah and his wife stood behind them, there were some other men Loras didn't recognize including a small man who looked at Jon intently.

After a few moments the music played up and they began to walk forward, before stopping at the entrance to the Merman's Court, a herald quickly entered and began to announced them.

"Lord Wyman Manderly, the Lord of White Harbor, the Warden of the White Knife, the Shield of the Faith, Defender of the Dispossessed, Lord Marshal of the Mander and Knight of the order of the Green Hand.

Lord Jaime Lannister, Lord of Casterly Rock, Warden of the West, Friend of the North."

Loras looked to Jon who was staring at a confused looking Jaime, apparently he didn't expect the last bit either, only to quickly look back as Lady Dacey was introduced.

"Ser Wylis Manderly, Heir to White Harbor and Lady Leona Woolfield.

Ser Jorah Mormont lord of Bear Island and Lady Lyneese Mormont.

Lord Howland Reed, Lord of Greywater Watch."

At this Jon's head snapped around and stared at the small man who gave him a nod and a smile, Loras watched as the two looked at each other for a few moments, Lord Jaime looking at them both also. Before too long they began walking in, Jon almost needing to be dragged by Lady Wynafred. The hall was decked out even more extravagantly than before, lighted torches accompanied by bowls of fiery liquid creating shadows on the wall.

Jaime, Lady Dacey, and the others walked to the high table, he and Jon were led to a table right at the front which seemed to contain more of the younger people of White Harbor. He saw Jon look intently at a young boy and girl who were already sitting down, the boy had a serious look on his face and his green eyes were sparkling as they looked at Jon. The girl who was obviously his sister was older but shared the same brown hair and green eyes the boy did.

"Meera, Jojen." Wylla said from beside him when he pulled her chair for her to sit.

"Wylla." the girl said with a smile, the boy sat silently looking at Jon.

"Have you met Lord Reed's children before Jon?" Wynafred asked.

"No my lady I haven't, though we almost met earlier in the courtyard."

"Aye, we would have stayed had we been able to, but it seemed you were a bit busy with your wolf." the girl said with a smirk.

"Where is Ghost anyway?" Loras asked.

"He's asleep in Jon's room." the boy said his voice sounding far older than it should from such a young boy.

"How did you know that?" Jon asked suspiciously.

"Just a guess Jon, my name is Jojen, my sister Meera and I have been looking forward to meeting you for a long time."

"Really, why?" Jon asked and Loras felt almost as uncomfortable, as lady Wynafred now seemed to be sitting beside his friend.

"Our father spoke of you often Jon, you and your white wolf." Meera said with a smile and Loras was pleased to see Jon relax some.

"I must thank him, he and my uncle along with Lord Manderly are the reason I have Ghost."

"I'm sure father will be most pleased to speak with you Jon." Jojen said.

"Come on this is a feast, lets have some fun." Wylla said from beside him and Loras laughed feeling the tension dissipate.

Jon just sat looking at the Reed boy an indecipherable look on his friends face, it seemed every time the boy spoke Jon's heckles were raised, Lady Wynafred said something to him though which made him laugh. But Loras couldn't help but look at the small green eyed boy, while around him even his sister joined in the japing, he instead just stared constantly at Jon.

Dacey.

By the gods the Manderly's could throw a feast, how many courses did it take before someone was full, looking down the table at Lord Wyman she guessed maybe just a few more. Lord Jaime had been extra attentive tonight, he had smiled at her dress and complimented her more than once. Perhaps she may even get a dance from the man later on she thought as she looked down at her sisters who were sitting near the front. Having Jory and Lyra here was a surprise and seeing them sitting with Torren and Harion and the Smalljon almost made her wish she was at that table.

But the man beside her made her glad she was sitting where she was, her sisters had teased her when they saw the golden haired Jaime Lannister, both saying he was even prettier than her. When they had seen how interested she really was though both had stopped their ribbing and had instead been very supportive. So much so that the confidence she'd not felt since being around the man had returned and given his attentiveness tonight, she felt that perhaps something may happen between them.

Unfortunately it was then that fate decided to play it's part, to her left Lynesse had barely touched her food all evening, when she felt her hand being grabbed by her cousin's wife she knew something was wrong. She almost panicked at the look on her face when she turned to her.

"Are you all right Lynesse?"

"Can you take me to the privy Dacey, quickly?"

"Aye come on."

The two women stood up and quickly made the way to the nearest privy, though not being used to the keep instead quickly came upon an empty garderobe. Inside they were happy to find a privy and Lynesse quickly went inside, Dacey turned to give her privacy but was almost dragged into the room with her. Within seconds it started, Lynesse began to vomit, even though she hadn't had much to eat, all of it came out of her. For the next hour or so Dacey stood with her, holding her hand and finding a damp cloth to wipe her face.

They talked about some non important things to pass the time, while outside she heard the music play and knew they were dancing, despite longing to go back into the hall though she wouldn't leaver her sister by choice. Lynesse and she had become very close, probably closer than she was with her own sisters, none of whom really cared about the more ladylike pursuits. With Lynesse she had someone who she could talk to of such things, share a love of fine dresses and embroidery, while also not be judged when she was dressed in her armor.

"How are you feeling?"

"I'm better I think, is there any water?" Lynesse answered.

"Aye, I'll get some." she moved and grabbed a jug filled with water from the nearby table.

Filling a cup she handed it to her, watching as she swallowed and asked for another, when she was finally satisfied the two of them sat down on the chairs, Dacey holding Lynesse's hand in hers.

"When was your last moon blood?" she asked.

"I don't know, a couple of moons, no three moons ago, you don't think?"

"Aye I do, you're with child Lynesse." Dacey said and watched as the smile beamed on her friends face.

"I should see a Maester, but not here, perhaps at Castle Black?"

"Are you sure Lynesse, would it not be best to know for certain?"

"No I want to meet your uncle, Jorah's father. He couldn't come to the wedding, so we can go to him, besides if Jorah knows he'll make us go back to Bear Island."

"Aye you're right, just well be careful all right."

"I will, thanks Dacey for being here."

"Of course." she said hugging Lynesse.

By the time they made it back to the hall the dancing was mainly over, Jaime was talking to Jon in the corner though he smiled at her when he saw her enter which made her heart flutter, she walked with Lynesse back to the table. Jorah looked concernedly at his wife who just smiled and nodded at him before taking her seat, Jaime came over a few minutes later while Jon walked back to his table.

"Lady Dacey, Lady Lynesse I trust all is well?" Jaime asked looking from her to Lynesse.

"Aye, it's fine Lord Jaime, though it seems I missed the dancing." she said looking coyly at him.

"Indeed my lady, though I've no doubt our host will throw at least one more feast before we depart."

"Of that you can be sure my lord." Jorah said clearly happier now that Lynesse seemed in better spirits.

"So what did we miss?" Dacey asked as both Jaime and Jorah laughed "What?"

"Where to start, how about a clearly drunk Smalljon trying to dance while being hit by Jory, or Loras basically being dragged around the floor by Wylla, no not enough, then how about my other squire being the belle of the ball." Jaime said laughing loudly now.

"Jon? What do you mean?" Lynesse asked her interest peaked.

"It seems your niece has been given him lessons my love, something which the young ladies appreciated." Jorah said as he laughed.

"Aye, seems once the ladies saw a boy who could dance, well, that was it, he practically ran to me as soon as the dancing was over with." Jaime said and she looked to see a miserable looking Jon Snow being teased by Loras.

"Surely Loras had lessons too?" she asked.

"Aye, but unlike Jon his politeness didn't extend to dancing well, after stepping on Lady Wylla's feet one too many times, he found his services no longer required." Jaime said.

"Now I really hope we get another feast." Dacey said smiling.

"As do I my lady." Jaime said looking at her intently.

Wyman.

When he heard Lord Jaime and Jon Snow would be joining his son on his return home he'd been delighted, he had long wished to meet the young man who had done so much for his family. The fact the boy was still doing things which benefited him and also the north was something Wyman found interesting. When Wendel arrived earlier without Jon with him he had been a little disappointed, he was glad to meet Lord Jaime though and looked forward to properly taking the measure of the man.

But it was Jon Snow he most wanted to see, luckily he didn't have to wait for long and when he saw him he was stunned. He had heard the boy was the perfect image of his father and while Wyman could see the resemblance, the boy was far too pretty to be all Stark. Watching the lad with the wolf had been en experience in of itself, but as impressed as he was with the control the lad showed with the wolf.

It was his attitude more than anything that Wyman reflected upon, to say the lad was confident would be an understatement, to see how far he'd come from that quiet boy he'd met years ago made Wyman thankful once more for Jaime Lannister. His time in the west had done wonders for the boy, which in turn had done wonders for he and the north, as he sat at the high table looking out on the those feasting, he reflected upon their conversation earlier.

" Well young Jon it's good to see you again after all these years."

" You too my lord and may I thank you for delivering Ghost to me, it was very much welcomed."

" Think nothing of it, you should thank Lord Reed too should you ever get the chance to meet the man." Wyman said laughing loudly.

" I would be more than happy to my lord."

" I heard what happened with the fish in Kings Landing Jon."

" You did, I wasn't sure it would travel all the way here." the boy said softly.

" Aye that it did, you did the north proud lad, did your family proud." Wyman said and watched as Jon gave him a surprised look.

" You think so my lord?"

" Aye I do, I heard how he acted, Wendel's raven made it clear, you were standing up for you're mother and father if I read it right?"

" Aye I was my lord, he insulted them both and refused to apologize." Jon said indignantly.

" Well you knocked him on his arse then didn't you, thought him not to mess with a wolf didn't ya lad." Wyman said and this time Jon laughed with him.

" Do you think Lord Stark has heard my lord?"

" Aye, I reckon he has Jon, but you were in the right, don't let anyone tell you different lad."

" I won't my lord." Jon said emphatically.

" Good lad, now go with Arlene to your rooms lad, we'll speak later, White Harbor and it's lord are most pleased to have you here." Wyman said with a smile, which Jon returned.

As he looked down the table he saw Howland and that was a surprise that he still was processing, it had been almost eight years since he seen his old friend, the man more content to stay in the neck than to ever leave. The last time Howland had he'd more than likely saved his life, so Wyman felt an obligation to the man that others in the north did not, he'd not have the Crannogmen spoken badly of in his presence because of it. But to see Howland leave the neck and arrive here at the same time Jon Snow did, well that was far too convenient to be a coincidence.

He had spoken to Howland only briefly to welcome him, but the mere fact he'd come would have been enough to raise Wyman's intrigue, the fact he'd also brought his children well that had Wyman scrambling. What was he doing here? Why now? What had this to do with Jon Snow? For he was certain it was the lad he'd come to see. If there was something afoot he'd get to the bottom of it, if it could help Jon Snow in anyway then he'd be a part of it, he owed the lad after all.

When Wendel told him of the changes he'd negotiated to their deals Wyman had been astonished, he'd been meaning to send Wylis to speak with Lord Tyrion about expanding more into Essos. But he'd put it off knowing it would limit their operations in Westeros, only to find that Jon had once again found a solution. What a solution it was too, in one stroke he'd just made the Mormont's probably the second richest family in the north, while also helping both the Umber's and Karstarks.

" You're saying this was Jon's idea son?"

" Aye father I am, Ser Jorah is overjoyed and though the deal with the Umber's still needs the Greatjon's approval, he'll be a fool to turn it down, as for Lord Rickard well the benefits are massive."

" The boy continues to amaze me son, what was the joust like?

" Father you should have seen it, you too Wylis, I've not seen the like of it before, on the first tilt he got caught with a heavy shot, it should have unhorsed him, but it didn't. The second tilt though, he lost his shield father, then almost fell from the horse, the effects of the first tilt clearly, but how he managed to win it I know not, he caught the fish square and knocked him flat on his arse." Wendel said and all three laughed.

" He's a good horseman then?" Wylis asked.

" Aye, I've not seen a better one."

" You never seen the lady Lyanna ride did you son?"

" No father."

" The girl was a centaur I'll tell you, no better horseman or woman in the north, the she wolf would leave us all in the dust." Wyman said.

" Mayhap he takes after her then?" Wylis said.

Mayhap he does Wyman said his eyes glassing over as he thought of Lyanna Stark, the she wolf was just what House Stark needs right now he thought. He'd been disappointed in his liege lord on the few occasions he'd visited since Jon Snow's departure, both in the lack of recognition the boy got and the lack of speaking about him he'd heard when there. Apart from the oldest daughter which had surprised Wyman, none spoke fondly of or seemed to miss the lad at all.

He shook his head, this was a night of celebration, on the morrow he could worry and think on such things, he'd speak to Lord Jaime and Howland and try to find out more of what his friend was up to. He'd also speak to his granddaughters and see what their impression of the lad was, both had danced extensively with the boy and Wynafred had seemed especially happy to do so. For now though he'd enjoy the rest of the feast, even though it was winding down for the evening.

Jon.

Laying in bed Jon felt more tired than he had ever felt during sparring or dueling, he had danced more times tonight than he had thought possible and looking down at the favor tied to his belt he felt a little guilty about it. Twice he had danced with Margaery and both times had needed to hide it from view, yet here he was allowed to dance with the Lord's granddaughters and while both girls were pleasant, they weren't Margaery.

Wylla's giggles or Wynafred's smile didn't compare to Margaery's lopsided grin or her smirk, their dancing though clearly well trained didn't make his heart race as his dances with Margaery did. In fact apart from Lady Meera he had in some way found himself comparing them unfavorably with Margaery all night. Lord Howland's daughter though was different, she intrigued him mainly because of how she and her brother seemed to always be looking at him when he turned to them.

Jojen was odd, plain and simple, how he spoke, the look he got in his eyes, the boy was no more than seven name days yet sounded more world weary than his uncle ever had. Meera on the other hand was everything the boy was not, where he was quiet, she was lively, where he was serious, she was a japester. Dancing with her she asked questions unlike any girl he had ever met, she spoke of Ghost and asked had he brought him hunting yet, had he let him run free in the north, all things which he would never have expected her to be interested in.

He tried to clear his mind of his thoughts knowing if he did not then he'd find no rest this night, Ghost lay by the fire, his wolf seemingly happy to be back in the north. He had assumed he'd want to go hunting or at least run free outside of the city, but when they'd been shown to his rooms, the wolf had laid down and just seemed happy to be there. The large leg of elk he'd been given helped somewhat in that regard Jon suspected.

The rooms themselves had been a surprise, having been expected to at best be given a room close to Lord Jaime he'd been stunned to be shown instead to the family wing, he'd wished to protest but thought better of it. Perhaps Lord Wyman would consider it an insult should he raise a fuss and not accept the honor he was being afforded. His egg lay untouched in its chest, it was still giving him the same problems he had been having with it since they began the journey. As he lay in bed he looked longingly at the wooden chest, he missed having it close, sighing he turned over to get some sleep, but the dream came not long after he closed his eyes.

The girl ran from the hall, tears streaming down her face, tears of anger, tears of frustration, the courtyard was full though no one dared get in her way as she ran to the entrance to the godswood, sitting down in front of the heart tree she shouted out in rage.

Why couldn't they understand?

Why couldn't they see?

She had not expected her oldest brother to take her part, his own wild nature was being curbed and he wouldn't allow anyone else the freedom he was being denied. Her quiet brother though she had thought would understand, thought he would be on her side, though he cared only for his friend's feelings and not for hers, she heard the footsteps behind her and turned, her youngest brother carrying something warm in a bowl.

" What's this?" she asked.

" I thought you'd be hungry, it's been hours since you were inside."

" Has it really, I didn't notice." she said and wolfed down the deliciously hot stew.

" What will you do?"

" I'll not marry him, I'll run rather than marry that boy."

" Is he really that bad?"

" He's a fool, he cares not for me, while I was there he bedded at least two servants."

" I'll fucking kill him, why didn't you tell me?"

" It's no use, they're all against me, Father, Brandon, Ned, only you're on my side Benjen."

"I'll a lways be on your side Lya."

Jon woke up with and found Ghost laying on the bed beside him, his head resting on his chest, he had seen her, seen his mother, that was his mother and the smile on his face made him ignore the pain in his heart. Benjen his uncle knew, he knew she didn't want to marry Robert, so did his other uncle, what was it that his mother had felt that he cared more for his friend than her.

Was that true? Did he care more for Robert's feelings than for his own sisters? Does he still? Ghost woke up and licked his face as he was trying to make sense of those thoughts, Jon though had an idea. He got out of bed and washed and dressed himself quickly, walking from the room he went looking for the Maester's chambers, Ghost following behind him.

After meeting a serving girl who pointed him in the right direction, he walked up the stairs and knocked on the door. It took a few moments but finally the door was opened, a fat blond man stood there looking dismissively at him, before he then saw Ghost and moved to pet the wolf. Ghost though showed his teeth in a silent snarl, which clearly scared him so much that it almost made him to slam the door on them.

"What do you want boy?"

"Maester I was wondering if you have some ink and parchment."

"Who are you boy?"

"Jon Snow Maester."

"Be off with you lad, I'll not waste good parchment on an illiterate bastard." the Maester said and made to close the door.

"I'm sure Lord Jaime will be pleased to hear it." Jon said and grimaced at the lie.

"Lord Jaime Lannister, you serve lord Jaime lad?" the Maester asked his voice much friendlier now.

"Aye I do, I'm his squire."

"Ah, you're that Jon Snow, why didn't you say, come in, come in, bring your wolf with you."

"Ghost is a Direwolf, Maester."

"Indeed, how fascinating, I'd love to examine him if given the chance."

Jon looked to a clearly unimpressed Ghost, if the wolf could speak he'd be certain that he be telling the Maester off very rudely.

"I don't think Ghost would allow that would you boy?" Jon said and sniggered when the wolf emphatically shook his head.

"Remarkable." the Maester said and walked to a set of shelves, returning with some parchment, a quill and some ink."

"I thank you Maester."

"Think nothing of it lad, Lord Jaime and I are kin after all." the Maester said with a large smile on his face.

Jon just nodded and left before making his way to the nearest alcove, luckily he found one with a large window seat, sitting down he began to draw, the first pic was good but not good enough. It took him until the third to get the image right, when he was finished he looked closely at it, had he colored ink he'd do a better job, but it was as he'd seen her.

"Mother." he said softly as he held the picture up.

Howland.

When Jojen came to him to tell him that they had to go to White Harbor Howland had not questioned it, if his son said it was needed then it was the old gods who had told him so. So he, Meera and Jojen and some guards had made the journey and arrived a few days ago. He had initially stayed at the tavern his men used wanting to get the lay of the land before going to meet Wyman. It took no more than a few days for the reason for their journey to be made clear to him.

Hearing Jon Snow was on his way made him feel a sense of nervous excitement he'd not felt in a long time, to see her son here and in the flesh was something he had wished for a very long time. He had been surprised at some of the gossip doing the rounds, that there had been a tourney in Kings Landing was no surprise. That Lord Jaime Lannister was apparently coming to White Harbor though had been, he had expected Jon to be coming alone, but he was glad Jaime was coming with him.

He wished to get the measure of the man, though everything he'd heard was positive he was still a man who stuck a sword in the back of a king, a man his liege lord had dubbed the Kingslayer. To know this was the man who Lyanna's son was being looked after by had worried him, but the reports he'd gotten back had lessened his concern. Still far better to see the man for himself and be his own judge, his lieges opinion not one he was sure could be counted on anymore.

Ned had disappointed him time and time again, both in word and deed, his actions towards Lyanna's son had made him furious, but funnily enough it was his actions since the boy had left that annoyed him more now. Wyman had informed him in a letter of what had occurred during his visit, it was after that for the first time in years he had been invited to come to Winterfell, something he had no intent of doing.

"Father, they've arrived." Meera said coming into the room.

"You saw them, saw him?"

"Aye father, both him and the wolf, he's enormous father, bigger than any wolf I've ever seen."

"He's a Direwolf Meera, what's the boy like?"

"He seems nice father, friendly. The wolf seems friendly too." Meera said a smile on her face.

"What say you Jojen is it time to visit the Merman's Court."

"It is father, we should make ourselves known."

Howland sighed, he was a man who kept things close to his chest but compared to his son he was the most open person alive. His son did not do explanations until things needed to be explained, something about things needing to happen in a certain way. So they made their way to the New Castle and were welcomed in. He spoke only briefly to Lord Wyman, not sure what he could say to explain their visit, since apart from seeing Jon Snow the other reasons were still unknown to him.

That night at the feast he finally got the chance to watch the boy closely and he didn't disappoint, he was her son that much was clear, though some of the dragon prince's appearance and mannerisms were present. He had no doubt that those who knew the prince best would recognize his father in him before long, while those who knew Lyanna would see only the she wolf.

A few times during the night he watched as Jojen clearly unnerved the boy, Meera though was quick to step in and smooth things over. At one point he'd almost came over to him and Howland had been glad to see something else distract him. He wasn't sure what he would say to the boy, what he would tell him, did he know the truth? If not should Howland tell him? Would he break his word to Ned?.

Luckily in the end he didn't need to do anything, the night passed without incident and he went to bed that night glad for the respite. He knew he'd need to speak to the boy on the morrow, knew he could give him answers to questions no one else could, but should he? His dreams that night were fitful and almost merged into one.

He stood on the Isle of faces, the weirwoods surrounding him almost boxing him in, he could hear one whispered word over and over, Harrenhal. He was on the ground the kicks coming in he felt helpless until a voice called and he was saved. They marched to war, he rode near his liege lord who laughed with the stag, they were in a camp, he came to a tent, the sounds inside were of someone coupling, he moved to walk away but the flap opened and he saw the large lord of the Stormlands as he pushed in from behind, the young girl seeming tiny in comparison.

They rode through a desert, a rocky landscape in front of them, a tower rising from high. There were bodies on the ground, white cloaks covered in blood, one man alone still breathing. The screams came from high in the tower. He was riding while carrying a babe, his dark eyes looking up at him, his heart felt heavy but he did what he had sworn to do.

A voice came out of the ether, a voice he knew all too well, he turned hoping to see her face or see the horse she was no doubt riding only for there to be no sign of either, he was back then in front of the tower, leaning down he poured the liquid into the mans mouth, his purple eyes looked at him sadly. He heard it again the voice louder now, the words clearer in his mind.

" He needs to know the truth Howland, it's time."

" But I promised I would not tell."

" He promised too Howland, you know what he promised, you heard it did you not."

" Aye, I heard."

" Tell him, tell him all, everything, tell him of Arthur, it's time Howland, it's time for him to return, to serve the king, tell him and consider your debt paid in full."

Waking up Howland knew what he must do, he dressed and made his way to break his fast, his daughter and son were sitting at the table with Wyman's granddaughters and the Tyrell boy, beside them Lord Jaime was laughing. The white wolf was leaning against the table and grabbing the sausage Lyanna's boy was holding for him.

"Father, good morning, here sit." Meera said bringing everyone's attention to him.

"In a while Meera, Lord Jaime, Jon, may I have a word.

"Lord Reed?" Jaime Lannister said looking at him confusedly before looking to Jon who nodded and stood up.