8 Chapter 8: S1-E7: Broken Things

Chapter 7: Broken Things

Geralt slept in, waking up late morning as he heard the sound of horses being readied. Getting out of bed and changing clothes, he'd head outside to see Robert along with the Ned, Robb and Theon all on horseback. Eddard saw the Witcher, waving him over to him.

"Rest well?" He asked, making Geralt nod and sigh.

"Yah…hope my sudden disappearance wasn't an issue." He muttered back.

"Heh, Robert seemed frustrated with you after your discussion. Rambled on a good while about you mistrusting his generosity." Ned added in a hush voice.

"Your friend tried to bribe me with knighthood in exchange for my services." Geralt quickly informed Ned, making him blink in surprise.

"Wait…he seriously did that?" The Northern Lord muttered while Geralt shrugged slightly. "He mentioned that in the crypts yet I thought he was bloody joking."

"You sound unamused." Geralt questioned back.

"In a way yes. Then again I should have expected Robert to do such a thing." Sighing, he'd look to the King who was nearing the group. "I'll talk to him again. Try to reason with him and clear things up."

"My answer is going to be no still." The Witcher calmly stated.

"I guessed that. Just don't want him debating on throwing you in a jail cell for insulting his generosity." Shaking his head, Ned look back at Geralt. "Just try to stay out of trouble today alright? I heard about the Hound and I'd rather not see a grudge match happen while I'm off hunting."

"Tell that to Joffrey. The royal prince set that up." Geralt argued back.

"Ugh…another matter to discus with the King." Ned grumbled under his breath. "Again just try to have a normal day. No sparring lessons with anyone." He'd shift his mount about, moving slightly towards Robert who was busy talking to Robb. "Although Geralt…thank you for getting Jon come to the fest. I know Catelyn is critical about him…"

"If anything you should apologize to him. You're his father after all yet you didn't try to have him take part." Geralt calmly spoke back, yet the words had Eddard grip his reins tightly.

"I know Geralt. Reminding me doesn't make that shame any less easy for me." Ned muttered, before riding off to the group. He and the King began to talk on some important matter before heading out. Eddard would pause though to wave to Bran who watched the hunting party leave. Once the group had left, Bran hurried over to Geralt, his young dire wolf following close behind.

"Wish father could have let me come along. I'm old enough to ride after all." The young boy muttered.

"Boar hunting is a dangerous thing to do. Besides doubt you could hold a long spear properly with your height." Geralt remarked back, making Bran frown before seeing the Witcher's toying smirk.

"Yet I have a dead eye shot with the crossbow! Can we shoot a bit at least…or maybe more sword lessons?" Bran quickly asked.

"Sadly can't. Your father doesn't want me drawing attention after yesterday." He said, making Bran give a disappointed look. "Maybe tomorrow or a few days later once things have settled down."

"Fine. I guess I'll go for a walk around the keep…" Bran muttered, before petting his dire wolf's head.

"Plan to go climbing again?" Geralt questioned, making Bran gulp nervously. "Don't worry, not going to tell your mother. Focus on low climbing spots and safe hand holds. Besides that stay safe." Brushing up Bran's hair, the boy chuckled and nodded, hurrying off out of the castle gates and for the outer grounds of the Hold.

Not long after, a familiar voice spoke up from across the yard. "Geralt! Why did you run off like that last night?"

Looking back it was Jon, who looked a bit ruffled up as if having just woken up, no doubt woozy after drink. From what the Witcher remembered, Graffin and Tyrion had the group on a drinking contest, one which Jon didn't last long in.

"Had a small disagreement with the King. Decided it be better to retire early before letting tempers flare." He quickly explained to the young man.

"Wait…you ARGUED with King Robert?" Jon remarked, open shock hinted in his voice.

"Not the first King I've bothered nor the last." The Witcher casually remarked much to Jon's surprise.

"Ughh…I'll pretend I didn't hear that and just…blame the headache for mishearing." The Stark muttered as he rub the sides of his head while Geralt smirked in amusement.

"So what about Tyrion? Lost count on how many mugs he had downed. Sure can handle his drinks for such a small man." Geralt asked once Jon had recovered from his short headache.

"Well…can't remember where he went afterwards. Saw him going along the yard with the last bottle we had." Jon muttered after thinking for a moment.

"Right then…so we should start at the Great Hall yard gate. Come along then."

"Wait what…why?" Jon questioned, confused at what Geralt was doing. "I'm sure Tyrion is fine. Maybe he stumbled back to his room in the end or…something."

"Maybe. Still, rather not have him passed out naked in some corner of the yard. Be embarrassing for the rest of our guests if he's found that way." The Witcher explained to Jon as they'd move across the yard and to the wall that separated the main court yard to the Great Hall yard.

"Alright fair point…yet how are you going to find one man's trail among…" Jon paused as he'd realize the mess of foot prints in the soft dirt and light mud. "…among all this. Must be dozens of people who passed through here last night."

Geralt kept that casual demeanor as he'd pace around the mess of footprints. "Trick is finding the one that stands out. Lucky our query is one of a kind among everyone." He'd focus his sharp senses as he'd crouch low, yellow eyes quickly scanning each foot print as he judged their size, shape and the distance of each step. Next he traced their direction as he began to thin out the number of paths.

"You're right on that, yet it will take hours to trace one small set of feet among so many." Jon remarked, making Geralt look up at him.

"Do you always get this whiney when hungover?" Geralt joked, making Jon give an annoyed look before smirking. "Anyway, sword lessons maybe over. Time I show you how to track. So get over here."

Jon was hesitant yet he'd move beside the Witcher and he'd crouch beside the white haired man, pausing to look over the mess of foot prints. "Alright…so…what now?"

"Well for one you don't have Witcher eyes." He'd tap the side of his head to remind Jon of his cat like eyes. "These aren't just for show. My sight is twice good than a normal man's and even see in low light. However even someone like you can see what I see if they look correctly." Pausing, he'd look back at the prints. "So then…looking for a man with half shoe sizes, short step and smooth sole print. Use those details to your advantage."

Jon was silent as he'd look closely, seemed unsure for a long while yet suddenly noticed something. Shifting, he'd touch over one smaller print that was partly hidden among the larger ones. Slowly he'd began to follow them, starting off slowly yet soon standing up to follow a more solid trail. The two began to zigzag around the yard, showing Tyrion's haphazard trip towards the stables. In the end, the two neared the kennels were the dogs slept and just nearing the pen they could hear snoring behind the board fencing.

Both Jon and Geralt moved in close, peeking over the short fence to find Tyrion, thankfully clothed, passed out among a bunch of dozing hounds. They looked at each other, baffled and amused at the sight as the dwarf scratched his face in his sleep, grumbling a bit as he did so.

"Water?" Jon remarked with a smirk.

"Water." Geralt answered in agreement as he'd find a clean bucket nearby and move over to a nearby water barrel to fill it up. Soon he'd splash it out at the sleeping dwarf and hounds, the canines yelping in shock from the splash, making them squirm away while the dwarf gasped out.

"Gah! Not storm season already!" He groaned as he'd spit out water out of his mouth and rub his face, blinking rapidly as he started to get an idea of his surroundings. Looking up at Geralt and Jon, noticing the bucket in hand, he'd give an annoyed look as he'd stagger up onto his feet. "That is a cruel…joke you know sir Witcher." He muttered as he'd brace against the fence for support.

"Could give you another douse to help with the smell." Geralt teased, making Tyrion roll his eyes yet smirk in amusement.

"I'll pass on that thank you very much." With a bit of effort, he'd climb over the fence, nearly falling over yet landing on his feet, even giving a small opened armed gesture as if finishing a performance. Jon in good humor gave a short clap.

"Can we expect backflips and cartwheels next?" He chuckled was Tyrion moved up to the two.

"Still working on that act I'm afraid. Anyway care to explain why you two decided to interrupt my beauty sleep?" The dwarf questioned before giving a small yawn and stiff stretch.

"Not polite to leave a drinking companion alone. Besides felt I needed to apologize for running off last night." Geralt explained to the short Lannister.

"Well considering how miffed you made Robert, I say it was worth it. Never seen the King so frustrated and lively like that. Think he was debating giving you a medal for bravery…or to have you flogged for disrespecting him." Tyrion remarked back.

"Charming…" Geralt muttered, guessing his chat had the King more bothered then expected. "Also ran into your brother when I was leaving last night."

"Ah yes dear Jaime. Far more likeable then my sister, at least from my point of view. Let me guess, challenge you to a fight?" It wasn't hard for the dwarf to know the answer from Geralt dead set stare. "Right…guess some explaining then." Glancing around, he'd see a bench nearby and hurried over to sit, almost tumbling onto his back. Geralt and Jon followed, yet decided to remain standing as the dwarf lodged back.

"Now you may have heard plenty of stories about my good brother. How he rose up from an aspiring page, trained under the fine care of master swordsman Barristan, commander of the King's Guard. He's skill at the joust is among the best in the land and he's a fury when it comes to the melee." Tyrion explained. "Overall Sandor's has been his latest opponent when it came to battles, yet he's gained the edge over the Hound. As for the Mountain well…the Mountain is another matter."

"The point Tyrion. I get it…your brother enjoys fighting." Geralt grumbled.

"Yes. It's what drives him really. Thing is Eddard has been on his list of people he wishes to duel, mainly because the Warden of the North has the claim of slaying Arthur Dayne during the Rebellion. Sir Arthur was Jaime's idol…so you get the idea." Tyrion then paused for a moment, taking a deep breath. "Then YOU show up. When the raven came telling of a strange white haired man with twin blades…well…I saw the excitement in my brother's eyes. Hearing how you battled a dozen savages single handed must have brought up old memories of Arthur who always battle outnumbered odds in many battles."

"So wait…you're saying that he sees me as some replacement for Dayne? A man who's be dead for nearly twenty years." Geralt questioned.

The dwarf gave a half nod and shrug. "You're skills seem to match the legendary knight…Eh thought you lack Dayne's dashing looks…"

Geralt's gaze narrowed as he swore he was getting tired about the 'lack of looks' remark.

"…no offense." Tyrion finished. "Point is he sees you as a chance to face his idol. Already he's been listening to every rumor about you and no doubt will be trying to study the way you fight. He'll size you up, learn your strengths and weaknesses before then crushing you…eh…possibly."

"Explain his pushy nature. Wanted to test my temperament…and my reaction. Guess I surprised him considering." Geralt muttered.

"I'd not be too certain. The more one rivals against him the more serious he'll get and when he's serious can become quite deadly." Tyrion remarked in a concerning manner. By now the dwarf shift off his seat, seeming to be mostly recovered by now. "Overall I tell you this as a warning. Don't challenge Jaime."

"Don't plan to…more worried he'll force me into a fight somehow." Geralt remarked back.

The dwarf just shook his head as he'd pace by the Witcher and Jon, his direction towards the Great Hall again. "Anyway while I enjoy chatting I feel I'm in need of a little breakfast."

"It's nearly lunch time by my guess." Jon piped in.

"Then brunch then!" Tyrion quickly answered back as he'd already be headed off on his own

Jon and Geralt looked to each other, unsure what to make of the eccentric Lannister. "So what do you think about what he said Jon?" The Witcher asked the young man.

"Can't say for sure. I've heard of Jaime's many tournament accomplishments and the stories about the Mad King. Man seems like a natural talent seeking that 'dragon' to slay." Jon answered back.

"Wonderful…" Geralt sighed as he'd pace around a bit, already trying to figure out a solution to this new annoyance. "Any plans for today?" He'd ask Jon.

"Have a few studies to finish along with some chores. Besides that nothing else by evening time."

Thinking for a moment, Geralt sighed as he realized he'd have little ease to do today. "Maybe I'll leave the keep for a bit. Go on a long walk to avoid everyone trying to bargain or fight with me. Just back home…same problems."

"These kind of things happen to you all the time before you came here?" Jon questioned curiously.

"Not important. Overall I've dealed with worse." Pausing for a moment, he quickly remembered one last thing. "By the way. Good work finding the right trail. Didn't expect you to get it on the first try."

"Oh…umm…thanks." Jon muttered, a bit off guard on the compliment. "Anyway should get to my chores. See you later Geralt."

Nodding, the Witcher watched Jon hurry off across the yard to talk to some of the workers. Now on his own, Geralt sighed as he'd think over what he could do until hunting party returned in the evening. After a moment of thinking, he decided to go check up at the black smith to see how Bran's crossbow was going. He was certain it be finished by now. The smithy was close by the kenals and from the sound of it, the blacksmith was already at work hammering away at something.

Nearing the small building, he'd hang back when he heard a gruff voice speak out. "You can fix the armor right? Got it dented up after yesterday." Sandor asked the bearded blacksmith. The tall warrior wasn't in the same armor as before, having changed into a lighter set of chain and metal armor with leather under it all.

"O-Of course. Doesn't seem serious so I can have it fixed up by tomorrow." The blacksmith quickly remarked, obviously nervous with the scarred man.

"Good." The Hound turned about yet stopped as he realized Geralt was standing close by. His eyes narrowed, his right eye almost closed because of the burn scars. "Ugh…you again. What do you want?"

"Checking up an order, that's all." Geralt simply answered back.

Sandor gave a grunt of disinterest as he'd move closer towards Geralt, who didn't move an inch back from the intimidating warrior. Up close his sharp nose could smell alcohol coming off the man, explain his gruff speech and heavy step to keep balance.

"So what is you big plan huh? Why are you sticking with the Starks?" The man asked gruffly. "Not exactly the wealthiest family among the Kingdoms, especially compared to the Lannister's. They have a good reputation yet too stuck on it from what I can tell. Have a lot of land…that is if you don't mind forests and snow.

At that point Geralt realized what Sandor was getting at, making him frown slightly at the man. "If you're saying I'm here for personal gain, you're wrong." He'd remark back. "The Starks took me in after my encounter with the Wildlings. They could have sent me on my way after questioning me, yet they let me stay. Even offered to help me find my missing daughter. Besides that they've also shown me more respect and kindness then most back home."

Sandor laughed quite loudly at Geralt's answer, shaking his head in amusement. "So you're here because of gratitude? Heh…quite the softy for such a fierce fighter." The man remarked back even as Geralt's eyes narrowed in annoyance. "The Lannister's earned my loyalty by making something out of my family. As for Robert I respect him for his efforts during the Rebellion. Yet you…" He'd look right at Geralt, smirking slightly. "…you'll just cling to anyone who shows you a hint of kindness. They'll drag you down in the end when times get tough. That is the price you pay when you make friends of others." Pausing, he'd saw how Geralt's expression not weaving, making him grunt and wave a gauntleted hand about. "Just the advice 'friend'. Overall I recommend you move on from here while you have the chance."

"Noted…now will you move aside?" Geralt calmly muttered. In the end, the Hound grunted as he'd shift by Geralt and walk across the yard for the Great Keep, no doubt to watch over the bothersome prince. His attention focused to the blacksmith, who seemed quite baffled that the Witcher had talked down the Hound with such ease. "So how is the crossbow doing? Is it ready?" The Witcher asked casually, making the man snap to attention and nod.

"Yes indeed! Followed the instructions to the mark. Used the best materials we have so it will be more durable as well." The man remarked before picking out the one-handed crossbow from the workbench, offering up for Geralt to inspect. Taking the weapon, he'd examine it over closely to ensure it was in working order and good quality.

"Draw seems strong…flexible and easy to pull…" He muttered as he'd test it out. "Quite well done."

The man nodded, giving a small smile from the compliment. "Give my regards to Bran. I'm sure he will put it to good use."

The two shook hands before Geralt departed, heading back for his room to get the last part of Bran's gift ready along with relax for a good while.

…

As the afternoon began to creep in, Geralt gathered up Bran's crossbow along with the leather bolt quiver had he also ordered, a small yet flexible holder which even had the Stark house symbol on it. Yet as he got the holder filled with extra bolts, there be a sudden knock at his door.

"Come in." He spoke out, the door opening to show it was lady Catelyn and Sir Rodrik. The woman had a worried look in her eyes, something he hadn't seen from her. The Master-at-Arms seemed tense, yet calm overall.

"Geralt. There is a matter that I need your help with." Catelyn asked in a calm manner. "It's about Bran…"

Curious, he'd turn to look at the woman. "What do you mean? Last I saw him, he was off exploring the grounds just outside the walls."

"Wait…you let him go off beyond the walls alone?" Catelyn asked in surprise, a hint of anger in her tone.

"He has Summer with him. The dire wolf maybe young, but it's big enough to guard him while he explores the grounds." Geralt assured her. "Besides, he can be too far off from the keep's walls."

Despite her frustration, Catelyn composed herself from snapping out at the Witcher. "Then I take you'll go off to find him. He's been gone for hours and I'd like him home for when his father returns from the boar hunt." Her tone of voice made her request sound more like an order, despite the formalness.

"Alright. I can understand that." He'd put Bran's crossbow and quiver aside before looking for Sir Rodrik. "I haven't been outside the keep too much. Any unique landmarks or areas that Bran may have gone to?"

"Aye. I have a few worth seeing. The area around Winterfell did have extra fortifications from past generations. Watch towers, walls and minor buildings. Good few are still around yet been neglected for a long time." The Master-at-Arms answered back.

Geralt nodded, before grabbing his swords, which made Catelyn nervous for a moment. "Sounds like a lot of ground to cover. Get a few horses while I gather some of the men. Think Jon and some of the guards should be finished with their duties for now."

"Good idea Witcher." The knight said with a nod before he'd move to leave, waiting for Catelyn to follow. The noble woman, did show a hint of dislike at the mention of Jon being part of the search party yet she didn't speak out against it.

"Thank you Geralt. Please have Bran back soon." With that she'd leave the room while Geralt finished getting his gear sorted out. Heading outside, he'd see that Jon was chatting with Graffin and the other guards who had finished sorting through the armory for the day. The group quickly noticed him approach the group and cut the chatter down.

"Hey there Geralt." Graffin spoke out, waving slightly while the Witcher gave a small nod to him.

"Didn't expect you out and about so soon." Jon remarked. "Still going on that ride around the grounds like we planned?"

"Small changes of plans on that. Lady Catelyn asked me to look for Bran. He hasn't come back since the late morning and she's worried." Geralt quickly explained. "Good chance to practice your tracking some more. Larger area like the grounds be fitting for that."

"Sure that's a good idea? Bran is missing after all." Jon questioned.

"I'm sure he's fine. Doubt an animal could bother him when Summer is around him and he has a dagger last I checked. I doubt there are hardened criminals sneaking around the plains of Winterfell." Geralt reassured Jon before looking to Graffin. "Can you and some of the men come along?"

"Sure! Sort of our job to protect the Stark's after all." The soldier chuckled before nodding to two of his fellow men.

By this point Rodrik arrived with horses for the group. They quickly split into groups with Jon paired with Geralt, Rodrik with one of the soldier and Graffin with the other soldier. They'd ride out of the main gate of Winterfell before splitting up to cover a different area around the vast castle. Geralt's group to the north, Graffin to the south and Rodrik to the east. Geralt and Graffin agreed to meet in the western area if they found nothing in their sections.

Jon and Geralt rode for a while, going at a slow place as the two looked across the vast plains. The Witcher's sharp eyes glanced around the grassy ground, noticing for any hint of a trail Bran or Summer could have left. Yet after a while Jon spoke up to get his attention.

"So how did you get so good at tracking?" He questioned.

"Experience and a damn good teacher. Most of the things I hunt can be quite mobile and sneaky. People however are a mix bag, yet there are always clues to follow if you know you who're following." Geralt answered back.

"Makes sense…yet what are we even looking for? This isn't the yard after all and we got miles of plains to cover." Jon added.

At this point Geralt slowed his horse to a stop and looked to Jon. "Alright point taken. First off we know Bran can't have gone too far on foot, at least a mile or two to be in range of Winterfell. Also think back what did I said to you back when we looked for Tyrion."

"His size, being drunk and other details. Made it easier to figure…" At that point Jon quickly realized what Geralt was meaning and shake his head. "Of course. Bran's trail stand out to anyone else's!" Already the young man shifted on his saddle to look at the distant gate of Winterfell then the surrounding plains. Jon was silent as he'd move his horse slightly about, eyes focused to the ground while Geralt hanged back and followed to not get in Jon's way. After a while, Jon would stop and suddenly drop off his saddle, moving over to a more exposed patch of wet soil among the grass.

"Got something." He muttered as Geralt joined him, letting him see the small boot prints and canine marks on the ground.

"Sharp eye." Geralt remarked yet Jon was focused as he'd look to the northwest, scanning the hilly horizon. There were ruins in the distance, a sizable tower with a collapsing wall next to it. No doubt the two structures had once made a border of Winterfell's territory.

"Knowing Bran, he'd go off there. Lady Catelyn hates how he climbs around the keep, so make sense he'd go practice and explore there." Jon deducted.

"Logical deduction. Let's hope you're right." Geralt remarked as the two mounted up and rode off to the distant structure at a casual pace. After a while though Jon again spoke up.

"So Benjen said I could join the Watch. I talked to him last night and he said father would let me to join." Jon suddenly revealed.

Geralt looked at him, a questioning look in his yellow eyes. "Didn't we talk about this? Rushing off to join the Watch isn't a smart move. Also you seem to forget it's not the orderly group it use to be like in the tales and history books."

"I know…Tyrion jested about it…and then I questioned Benjen about the fact criminals make up most of the Watchers." Jon was silent for a moment. "He told me it was all true, even told me how in a few days he was going to the next convoy from the capital with a new host of 'recruits'." Jon gripped his reins more tightly in frustration. "Thing is I'm not mad about that though, it's the fact that my father never thought to tell me this himself."

Geralt was silent for a long moment. "Because no parent wants to crush their children's aspirations. It's the same for those who dream growing up to become a knight or soldier. Often the role isn't what it seemed to be and is often lacking."

"Yet he was misleading me!" Jon snapped back. "And I question why…maybe he wanted me eager to run off to join just to please Catelyn. Maybe deep down he's always resents me and just been that good at hiding it."

However Geralt spoke up after that last remark. "Bullshit." Jon looked at the Witcher with a confused look. "I don't agree with your father on every matter. Heck this morning I questioned him for not personally including at the King's feast. His reaction was frustration and shame for not doing so. He hated the fact he didn't try." Riding closer beside Jon, he'd continue. "Eddard is a good man yet in the end he has to follow the expectations others place on him, be it the other nobility or his wife."

Jon was silent yet would speak up in the end. "You are right about it. In the end he has no little choice because I'm his bastard." He calmly spoke back. "Despite it all…I still feel that Wall is my best choice."

"Yet you can't-" Geralt started yet stopped as they neared the tower. His sharp ears heard familiar barking and howls. He'd focus his gaze at the base of the mainly at a set of rubble below it where he saw the young direwolf circling around. "No." He'd suddenly kick his horse into a full sprint, Jon being surprised by the Witcher's reaction before seeing it too.

"Oh gods…" Jon muttered as he chased after.

Geralt slowed his horse, leaping off before hurrying to the rubble where Bran laid dead still. Quickly he had one hand at the boy's neck while leaning his head close to his face. He'd feel a weak heartbeat and hear the shallow breath escape from the boy's lips. "He's alive!" Geralt called out to Jon as the young man hurried beside his fallen brother.

"How…what the hell happened?" Jon asked, a hint of panic in his voice.

Geralt checked over the boy, noting how blood was pooling only from the back, hinting a major injury there. "Can't be sure without examining the area and his injuries. Right now he's bleeding badly right now…can't imagine in internal injuryies." Pausing, he'd look at Jon. "Your cloak. Give it to me. We're going to wrap him up and you're going to take him back to Winterfell."

Jon started to, yet he'd realize Geralt was more experienced in this matter. The Witcher showed no panic or fear, only focused on the task at hand. Getting his black cloak off, Jon crouched down while Geralt carefully lifting Bran up. Blood soaked his hand just touching at the boy's back, feeling the mark of the injury started at the lower spine. Getting the cloak around him, he'd carry the boy towards Jon's horse while the young man mounted up.

"Take him. Keep pressure on the wound and hold him close. Ride on the nearest trail and keep the horse steady. When you see any guard you tell them to get Rodrick. You understand?" Geralt calmly instructed. Meanwhile Summer moved up to Geralt, whining as she looked between him and his wounded master. "Follow them back boy. Keep an eye on Bran." Geralt softly ordered. The dire wolf barked, understand before looking to Jon, pacing around his horse as he was ready to follow along.

"I'll get there as fast as possible. Good luck finding out what happened here Geralt." Jon answered back, composing himself after a moment.

Nodding, Geralt watched Jon move his horse ride out at a brisk pace for Winterfell. Watching them for a long moment, his attention shifted to the bloody rubble Bran had been on. "Time to work." He muttered to himself as he'd crouch low to examine the area. "Blood splatter matches for a fall, yet not from tripping." He muttered as he noticed the impact spot being a jutting piece of stone in the center of the rubble pile. "More fitting for a high fall, explain the focus point too."

His gaze looked up to the ruined tower, noting the viable heights that could explain the landing spot. "Should go up there. Get an idea of where the fall happened and what caused it." Moving around the tower, he'd find the entrance yet slowly drew his steel sword. If this had been an attack he had to be sure no one was waiting to ambush him within the ruin. Being light with his step, he'd be careful where he stepped, not wanting to ruin any foot prints in the dirt and dust. His sharp eyes focused on the ground as he'd note two sets of fresh foot prints.

"Huh...boot prints and ladies shoes. A couple? Two tracks as well leading in and out." He muttered curiously. Pacing towards the stairs, he'd move up to the higher floors until reaching the top floor the damaged stairs reached. The area seemed clear, letting him relax as he'd sheath his blade once more. "Foot prints leads up here." Following it along he'd see that it ended at the corner of the room.

"Seems they cleared this spot. Set something down too, cloak or blanket..." However he'd notice how the dust was spread about, giving him ideas why the cloth had been set down. "Heh…no doubt some lovers came here for some privacy. Place is far away enough to be secluded." He'd catch an odd scent near the spot though, something flowery. "Perfume? Not something a commoner girl would have. Maybe a courtier or noble?" His attention moved to the nearby opening in the wall, a window that widened from the tower's neglect. Moving towards it, he'd notice bare foot prints on the ground, fitting for a man's when considering the size and shape.

"Now why did you move there for suddenly?" He'd see the prints end at the rubble window which he'd gaze out from. Looking down he'd see the spot Bran had fallen onto, the height matching for the place right where the window opening was. Stepping out carefully to the ledge, he'd notice the loosened stone where the fall happened, mainly on the edge and on the very side of the opening. Focusing he'd see the faint marks of nail scratching and hand print from lingering dust. "Lost his grip or balance…or trying to keep hold?" Looking back at the foot prints he already questioned what was going on here.

"Alright time to review…" Pacing back towards the blanket spot, he'd think for a moment. "A couple sneaks off here while Bran arrives unknowing. He climbs up the tower yet hears something, voice or moaning I'd guess." Looking to the window, he'd continue. "Climbs closer and peeks in, seeing the couple in the middle of the act. Could be he was surprised and lost his grip. Couple hears the yell and fall, man comes to check which explains the prints by the window. Still…doesn't explain why they didn't go for help or take him away. Winterfell isn't far after all." Pausing though, he'd think over the details.

"Other possibility. Other is Bran see's the couple and his noticed. Man quickly reacts and grabs him before he can climb out of reach. Pushes Bran down to silence him before the two flee." His gaze drifted back to the lover's spot. "That means the couple must be someone Bran instantly recognized. Yet who could it be…" The sunlight shined in more, catching a faint gleam in the wooden floor which makes him crouch low to check. "Pieces of hair…long and golden." Collecting the strands, he'd examine them closely. "Only one person at the keep with this color and lengths. Guess infidelity goes both ways between the King and Queen." He'd pocket the hair as poof before moving back to the window.

"So the woman must be Cersei considering the hair and perfume. Just leaves us our mystery man." However he'd stop muttering as he'd see a nearing group of riders in the distance, approaching the tower. He'd head down and back outside as the riders arrived, Rodrik being at the lead.

"We came here as fast as possible. Jon brought Bran to the keep and Luwin is already tending to him." The Master-at-Arms quickly explained. "Was it an accident? I'm surprised the boy would climb this tower despite its worn age."

Geralt crossed his arms, shaking his head. "I searched the inside of the tower. Seems someone was there recently, at least a few hours." He started off. The Witcher would explained his findings yet pull Rodrik aside to privately share the details about the blond hair and who he believed it to be. The knight was shocked at the idea.

"Look Geralt…what you're suggesting is…" Rodrik muttered.

"Just going off the facts Rodrik. We don't know who the man was or if he pushed Bran off or not. All I can say is the clues I found suggested that outcome." Geralt answered back.

"Who else should we share this with?" The knight questioned.

"Lord Eddard for sure yet I don't know if Lady Catelyn is fit to know this. She'll be too hasty and accuse the Lannister's." Geralt advised.

Rodrik was silent, yet nodded in agreement. "She is distraught. You make a good point Witcher." Looking to the men who were fanning around the area for any other clues, he'd continue to speak. "Well search the area more. Maybe can find out where they were heading."

"They'd need to horses at least to arrive separately or gone by foot. Try to check the paths leading back to Winterfell, especially one that is partly hidden."

The Master-at-Arms nodded. "And what will you do now?"

Geralt paused looking to Winterfell in the distance. "Need to examine Bran. He could have clues on him to identify the man. Plus I feel my skills can help Luwin treat his injuries."

"Agreed. You've done your part here Witcher." The two shook hands while Geralt climbed back onto his horse. "We'll search until nightfall before returning. I'll be sure to inform you of anything new we discovered."

Nodding, Geralt had his horse quickly move out across the plains, heading for Winterfell in a hurry. Arriving back to the main courtyard, there was already a crowd of people gathered around, quickly chattering about what was going on. Avoiding the group, he'd head to the stables to return the horse before hurrying across the yard quickly for the Great Keep. A few people couldn't help but give a double take noticing Geralt's sprint inhumanly quick, yet guessed that the crisis at hand had him in a hurry.

He guards directed the Witcher to Bran's room where Luwin was treating Bran's injured. The bed was cleared of its fur covers and placed with clean sheets while Bran lay on his front, shirt remove which revealed the extent of his injury. His back was bruised and cut yet the lower part of his back had gash at the spine. Luwin was already stitching the wound carefully, the old man having a steady hand as he used the threat and needle. At times he'd get more ointment to clean the wound and prevent infection, correcting treating the injury.

Beside the bed Catelyn was next to Bran, holding one of his hands while staring at his face. The boy was still unconscious yet he seemed more relaxed from his peaceful expression. The woman's face was still damp with tears, yet she had composed herself for the moment while Luwin worked. However, hearing Geralt enter, she'd look to him. Those eyes had a mix of emotions in them, making it hard to read how she felt.

However he didn't speak to her as he'd move beside Luwin. "How bad is it?" He calmly asked.

"The drop was a high one for sure…yet it was the landing that was the most life threatening." The Maester muttered. "From what Jon told me, the jutting rubble has dislocated his lower spine and cut through his nerves. I've seen men cut in such ways lose all feeling to their lower bodies in such a way." Geralt was silent as he'd watch the Maester finish the stitching and sigh. "The boy may never walk again. I need to do more tests to judge his muscle reactions yet so far they don't look good. We won't know the full extent until he wakes up."

At that point Catelyn spoke up, her voice low and cold. "You let this happen…"Both Geralt and Luwin looked at her, confusion showing across their faces while the woman continued to speak. "You knew that he'd go climbing beyond the Keep despite being disallowed from it. You didn't even come along to watch him." She'd sob, looking right at Geralt harshly. "Now he's like this…crippled forever because of your choice!"

Geralt's expression didn't change as the woman accused him of being the cause for all of this. He'd step closer to her, yet she didn't move an inch. "I understand your anger Lady Catelyn, yet putting blame on others isn't going to help Bran or anyone else." He calmly stated before glancing at the sleeping boy. "Maybe I should have gone with him, kept watch to make sure he was safe." Yet he'd look back at her, yellow eyes stern towards her. "Yet I promise you…I'll do everything I can to help him and the truth on what happened.

Catelyn was silent, letting those words sink in. "Are you saying someone caused this?" She asked in a low voice.

He'd nod. "Found clues of a couple at the tower when he was climbing. Not completely sure if they made him fall or witnessed it thought…either way they either caused it or neglected to get help." Pausing to let the details sink in, he'd continue. "Already have some suspects as well. Best I can say is that it was someone from Winterfell, one of the guests from the King's caravan"

"Can you not share details with me?" She asked calmly back.

Geralt was hesitant, before shaking his head. "It is too soon Lady-" He started before she interrupted him.

"Bran is my son and I have the right to know!" She'd snap back sternly.

"And your right but we've only started investigating. Right now your emotional and acting rash. If I told you who I believed was behind this, you'd rush off and create a scene. You'll make the real suspect be on guard and make it harder to catch them." He calmly explained to the noble woman. "Trust me on this matter. I've solved plenty of crimes far more complex than this, yet everyone needs to be calm and silent on the matter."

Catelyn seemed ready to argue, yet she'd give a deep sigh and look back at Bran. She'd gently touch his face caringly before she'd speak once more. "Then I put my trust with you and the others. Don't let those who did this go unpunished."

"Trust me…" Geralt moved away from the bed, heading for the door. "…I won't."

…

Not long after leaving the room, one of the guards approached Geralt in the hall. "Witcher, Lord Stark and King Robert have returned from the hunt." He quickly informed him.

"Good. Tell Eddard that I'll be waiting for him at his study. We have a lot of discus." He'd quickly tell the guard, who nodded and hurried off.

Turning to head for the study, Geralt ran into Jon who was hurrying for Bran's room yet stopped when he found Geralt. "Did you find anything?" He asked the Witcher, who simply nodded. "Can you tell me who-" He started before the Witcher shook his head.

"Too soon to start accusing anyone. Rather not go through the same conversation like I did with Catelyn to explain why." He quickly explained to the young man. "Right now be proud that you saved your brother and focus on what you can do to help him."

Jon didn't answer for a moment before nodding. "I'm just glad he's alive really…" Pausing, he'd continue to speak. "I'm going to see him. I know he's not awake yet I need to just speak my mind to him…hope he can just hear me."

Geralt heard how people did that for those in a coma. Sometimes it just eases the family's worries or could rarely trigger a reaction from the inflicted. "Catelyn is with him. She's very emotional right now yet she's calmed down for now."

"I'll be careful around her…if anything she…thanked me for bring him back." Jon remarked. Glancing away from Geralt, he'd move pass him for the bedroom, opening the door and stepping in before closing it.

The Witcher paused for a moment before continuing on for the study, not letting anything else delay him. Already he'd see the door open and hearing Ned along with Robert speaking. He'd hang back as the two seemed to be arguing.

"He's my son! I can't just leave him!" Ned snapped back at the King.

"Damn it I know that Ned." Robert sternly remarked. "I'd be just as angry and stubborn if my own child was in that bed! Yet there is more at stake here then just your family…it's the whole damn kingdom."

Ned was silent for a moment, before he'd continue to talk. "You have to find someone else Robert. Cat will be devastated if I leave now and I don't think I could fulfill my duties as your Hand."

Heave footsteps followed, no doubt Robert stepping up to Ned. "There is no one else I can trust though. I know there are many qualified lords to choose, yet you're the only one I fully trust!" The king paused for a long moment before speaking. "We'll delay our journey for a few days. That should give you time to think this over and sort matters with your family. Again Ned…I understand family…but in the end your duty comes before all else."

Geralt kept hidden as the King left, although he'd wait a moment longer as Ned muttered lowly. "Duty…the damn chain that binds us all…"

At this point, Geralt would walk into the room, making Ned look up calmly to the Witcher. "How much did you hear?" He questioned.

"About half of it." He truthfully answered. "Besides, I'd rather not reveal my findings to the King. This isn't a matter he should get involved. If anything the less people know the better."

Eddard nodded as Geralt closed the study door and moved towards the desk which the lord stood behind. "So tell me what you found at the tower. Every detail."

The Witcher did so, explaining all the clues he had found. He'd reveal the collection of golden hair and explain who it was from, yet Ned's look beforehand showed he already knew.

"Who else knows?" Ned calmly asked in a low voice.

"It's just you, me and Sir Rodrik." Geralt calmly answered back. "So what should we do? If Cersei was there this will…complicate things."

Ned tapped his knuckles against the solid wooden desk, a hint of frustration in his eyes. "Yes…which is why we have to bide our time." He calmly stated. "The final clue is finding out who she was with and questioning them. Whoever they are they are no doubt far less protected then she is."

"Agreed…problem is I don't know who it can be. King came with dozens of men ranging from courtiers, knights and servants. Can't go interrogating them all without drawing attention." Geralt remarked back.

Ned thought for a moment before an idea came to mind. "Her younger brother, Tyrion. You and him seem to be on good terms considering last night's feast. He knows his sister well, perhaps he has an idea who she is with."

"Kind of a stretch there. She can't be stand looking at him, much less share stories of infidelity over dinner." Geralt argued in a sarcastic manner.

"Jests aside, he's a perceptive individual and he is at least open towards you." Ned answered back. "If anyone knows the queen's secrets it be him and if not then he may know someone else who can."

"Maybe tricky to get the details from him privately. If the queen is behind this she'll have those loyal to her keeping an eye out, especially her brother." Yet he'd pause thinking over last night and what the dwarf had discussed. "Yet I have one idea…"

"What would that be?" Ned questioned.

"Tyrion plans to go to the Wall soon. He'll be mostly by himself, far from any royal servants or people loyal to the queen. Give me time to figure out what he knows." The Witcher explained.

Ned thought over the details, nodding in agreement. "It does. In the meantime I'll try to keep an eye on the queen's actions and movements. News of Bran's survival is already spreading…so if she tries anything in Winterfell, we will know."

Geralt gave a small sigh as he'd pace to the nearby window, looking out at the yard. Robert was talking to the Lannister's, Joffrey standing by the man with an adoring look while the Hound stood by cross armed and bored. Cersei was listening intently to Robert and chatting back, no doubt discussing the news of Bran's fall.

"Thought I'd have a break from this. Had a life time of intrigue already." Geralt muttered to Ned.

"The fate of all involved in politics is it not?" Ned chuckled lowly. "As for Robert's offer…I think I have a solution that keep you independent from the Crown. Have to finalize a few matters though before we discuss it."

"That is good to know. At least the King won't be throwing me into any dungeons any time soon." Geralt remarked with a small smirk. "Be on guard Lord Stark. Doubt this is over."

"I know." Eddard muttered as Geralt moved to leave the room "It's only just the beginning…"

…

Notice: Surprise! An extra chapter for all of you this week. Time for mystery and intrigue to truly begin, yet who better to find the truth then Geralt himself. Currently I'm on a roll with my writing currently and plan to go for possibly another chapter in a few days. Overall I hope this chapter put on a good show of Geralt's investigating skills…along with the fact that he just loves talking to himself while doing so. Overall review and PM your reactions and thoughts. I read and often reply to all reviews and messages, because you guys truly do motivate me to write!