Chapter 74

In his eagerness to explore the mysteries of the Dreadfort, Bahamut had unintentionally surpassed Winterfell, the seat of House Stark. It wasn't until he arrived at Last Hearth, the seat of House Umber, that he realized he had veered off course. Recognizing his oversight, Bahamut adjusted his course, turning his attention back towards Winterfell.

His purpose in the North was twofold—to warn House Stark about the impending threat of the White Walkers and to inform them of his decision to permit the entrance of the Free Folk into their territories.

As Bahamut made his way to Winterfell, the biting cold in the air signaled the encroaching arrival of winter. The North, accustomed to harsh climates, seemed to brace itself for the icy grip that would soon descend upon the land. By the time Bahamut arrived, morning had bathed Winterfell in a muted light, and the stronghold had resumed its daily activities.

Within Winterfell's walls, discussions buzzed about the future of the North. The recent upheavals and the uncertainty surrounding House Targaryen's return stirred dissent among the Northern lords. Some argued against pledging allegiance to the Targaryens once more, wary of the potential consequences. Others proposed a change in leadership, advocating for Robb Stark to become the new Lord Paramount of the North.

In response to the growing sentiment, Eddard Stark, the current Lord Paramount, chose to step down from his position. The decision paved the way for Robb Stark to assume the mantle of leadership in the North. However, the question of allegiance lingered, as the North debated whether to bend the knee to the Targaryens once more even thought they did once already.

Eddard Stark, reluctant to marry his daughter Sansa to a Southern lord, sought an alternative. Considering the complex dynamics of the North and South, he contemplated uniting Sansa with a Northern lord. However, the suggestion would clash with the silent intentions Bahamut harbored for Sansa, particularly regarding her union with Aegon. Despite presenting Eddard with the choice, Bahamut silently opposed any decision that might separate Sansa from Aegon, especially with the lingering influence of the Tyrell girl on the young lord.

Descending from the skies, Bahamut made a majestic entrance into the vicinity of Winterfell. As his colossal form drew closer, a mighty roar resonated through the air, capturing the attention of everyone within and outside the castle walls. The inhabitants of Winterfell, unaccustomed to the presence of a living dragon, were seized by panic. Commoners scattered in fear, their imaginations running wild at the sight of Bahamut, a creature believed to exist only in legends.

Undeterred by the commotion below, Bahamut circled Winterfell in the sky, his keen eyes scanning the ancient structure. Intrigued by the runic magic that Bran the Builder was said to have embedded into the castle's foundations, Bahamut pondered the significance of such enchantments. The Bahamut marveled at the enduring strength of Winterfell, standing the test of time.

Amidst the commotion and confusion, the Starks, including Eddard Stark and his children, rushed out of Winterfell, their faces etched with a mix of curiosity and trepidation. Ser Rodrik Cassel, the Master-at-Arms, led the guards to the walls, unsure of how to confront the unexpected visitor. The sight of the dragon hovering above the castle walls had left everyone in awe, their minds grappling with the unimaginable.

As the dragon descended towards the Godswood, the tension reached its peak. The dragon transformed into a human figure, landing gracefully in the sacred space of Northerners. The shock among the Starks and the guards deepened, for this was no ordinary dragon. Arya, who recognized the true form of Bahamut, was both amazed and apprehensive.

Not wasting any time, the Starks, led by Eddard, hastened towards the Godswood, their strides filled with urgency and uncertainty. Arya attempted to join them, driven by her curiosity, only to be stopped by her mother's protective hand.

In the Godswood, Bahamut, now in his human form, stood near the Weirwood tree, a serene expression on his face. He gently placed Aithusa on the ground, allowing the small dragon to explore and play. Awaiting the arrival of the Starks, Bahamut observed the approaching figures with a knowing smile, prepared to reveal the purpose of his unexpected visit.