Shadows of the past

Chapter 8: Shadows of the Past

The corridors of House Royce's castle were dimly lit, casting long shadows that danced across the ancient stone walls. Cedric and Robb followed their guide, a stern-faced knight named Ser Waymar Royce, as he led them deeper into the heart of the stronghold.

The air was heavy with the scent of torch smoke and musty old books, the sound of their footsteps echoing through the empty halls. Cedric couldn't help but feel a sense of unease as they walked, the weight of the castle's history pressing down on him like a suffocating blanket.

But despite the oppressive atmosphere, Cedrics mind was filled with thoughts of the task that lay ahead. They had come to House Royce seeking allies in their fight against the White Walkers, and Cedric knew that their success depended on their ability to convince Lord Yohn Royce of the urgency of their cause.

As they reached the great hall of the castle, Cedric and Robb were greeted by the sight of Lord Yohn Royce himself, seated at the head of a long wooden table. He was a formidable figure, his face weathered by years of battle and his eyes sharp with intelligence.

"Greetings, my lords," Lord Yohn said, his voice booming through the hall. "I trust your journey was uneventful?"

Cedric nodded, his gaze steady as he met Lord Yohn's eyes. "It was, my lord," he said. "But we have not come here for pleasantries. We come bearing urgent news of the threat to the realm, and we require your aid in rallying the forces of the Vale against the White Walkers."

Lord Yohn's expression darkened, a furrow forming between his brows. "The White Walkers," he said, his voice heavy with concern. "I had heard rumors of their return, but I had hoped they were nothing more than tales spun by drunken fools."

Cedric shook his head. "I assure you, my lord, they are all too real," he said. "And unless we unite the lords of the realm against them, we are doomed to fall."

Lord Yohn regarded them thoughtfully for a moment, his gaze lingering on Cedric with a hint of suspicion. But then, to Cedric's relief, he nodded slowly, his expression grave.

"Very well," Lord Yohn said. "If what you say is true, then we have no time to waste. We must prepare for war."

And so, with Lord Yohn's support secured, Cedric and Robb spent the following days in council with the lords of the Vale, laying out their plans to defend the realm against the coming darkness. They spoke of alliances and strategies, of sacrifice and courage, until finally, the lords of the Vale pledged their support to their cause.

But even as they celebrated their victory, Cedric couldn't shake the feeling of unease that gnawed at him. There were shadows lurking in the corners of his mind, memories of a past life that whispered of danger and betrayal.

As they prepared to leave House Royce and continue their journey, Cedric knew that the road ahead would be fraught with peril. But he was determined to press on, to face whatever challenges lay ahead, for the fate of the realm rested on his shoulders.

And so, with their hearts filled with resolve and their minds set on victory, Cedric and Robb Stark rode forward into the unknown, ready to face whatever darkness awaited them.

For the night was dark and full of terrors, but they would not falter in their quest to save the realm from destruction