A new Alliance

Chapter 2: A New Alliance

As Cedric stepped into the courtyard of Winterfell, he couldn't shake the feeling of unease that gnawed at him. The world of Westeros was a dangerous place, filled with hidden dangers and deadly enemies. But he was determined to navigate its treacherous waters and emerge victorious.

Ser Robert fell into step beside him, his sword clinking softly against his side. Cedric glanced at the knight, feeling a sense of gratitude for his newfound ally. Ser Robert had pledged his loyalty to Cedric, and Cedric knew he would need all the help he could get in the days ahead.

"Thank you, Ser Robert," Cedric said, breaking the silence that hung between them. "Your support means a great deal to me."

The knight nodded, his expression solemn. "It is my honor to serve you, my lord," he said. "I swore an oath to House Stark, and I intend to uphold it, no matter the cost."

Cedric smiled, grateful for Ser Robert's unwavering loyalty. With allies like him at his side, Cedric knew he stood a fighting chance against the enemies that lurked in the shadows.

But even as he basked in the warmth of Ser Robert's support, Cedric couldn't shake the feeling of foreboding that lingered in the air. He knew that danger loomed on the horizon, and he would need to be prepared if he hoped to survive.

As they reached the heart of the castle, Cedric's thoughts turned to his family—the Starks of Winterfell, his new kin. He had read about them in the books and watched their struggles unfold on the screen, but now they were his flesh and blood, his responsibility.

Cedric's gaze swept across the great hall of Winterfell, taking in the faces of those who called this castle home. There was Lady Catelyn Stark, his mother, her face lined with worry as she watched over her children. And there was Robb Stark, his half-brother, a look of determination etched into his features as he prepared for the battles to come.

Cedric felt a pang of guilt as he looked upon his family. They had welcomed him with open arms, believing him to be their lost brother returned from the dead. But Cedric knew the truth—that he was an imposter, a stranger in their midst.

But he couldn't dwell on his guilt, not now. He had a duty to fulfill, a destiny to embrace. And he would do whatever it took to protect his family and secure their legacy.

With a determined stride, Cedric approached his mother, his heart pounding in his chest. Lady Catelyn turned to face him, her eyes widening in surprise as she took in his appearance.

"Cedric?" she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "Is it really you?"

Cedric nodded, his throat tight with emotion. "Yes, Mother," he said. "It's me. I have returned to Winterfell, and I intend to take my place as your son once more."

Tears welled in Lady Catelyn's eyes as she threw her arms around Cedric, pulling him close in a fierce embrace. "Oh, my son," she said, her voice breaking with emotion. "I thought I had lost you forever."

Cedric held his mother tightly, feeling the weight of her love and her grief pressing against him. He knew he had deceived her, that he was not the son she had lost. But in that moment, he couldn't bring himself to tell her the truth. He couldn't bear to see the pain in her eyes, the betrayal on her face.

And so, he held her close, promising silently to protect her and his family with his dying breath