Posted originally on the Archive of Our Own at http://archiveofourown.org/works/5722618.

Rating:
Archive Warning:
Fandom:

Teen And Up Audiences

Relationship:

Sandor Clegane & Lyanna Stark, Sandor Clegane/Sansa Stark,

Sandor Clegane & Sansa Stark, Sandor Clegane & Arya Stark,
Sandor Clegane & Jaime Lannister, Sandor Clegane & Brandon
Stark, Sandor Clegane & Ned Stark, Sandor Clegane & Catelyn
Stark, Sandor Clegane & Robb Stark, Sandor Clegane & Syrio Forel,
Sandor Clegane & Brienne of Tarth, Sandor Clegane & Bran Stark,
Sandor Clegane & Rickon Stark, Sandor Clegane & Jon Snow,
Sandor Clegane & Theon Greyjoy, Jory Cassel & Sandor Clegane,
Sandor Clegane & Rodrick Cassel, Sandor Clegane & Osha, Sandor
Clegane & Gendry Waters
Sandor Clegane, Brandon Stark, Ned Stark, Lyanna Stark, Robb
Stark, Jon Snow, Sansa Stark, Arya Stark, Bran Stark, Rickon Stark,
Catelyn Tully Stark, Syrio Forel, Brienne of Tarth, Jaime Lannister,
Gendry Waters
Mild Language, Violence, Vignette, Fluff and Angst, Family Fluff,
Alternate Universe - Canon Divergence, Alternate Universe - Sandor
Clegane Is A Stark Man, Friendship, Mallory (see FancyKid's A
Lightness) - Freeform, Trolljen Stark (Benjen the prankster), Jory
Lives!!, Syrio lives!!, Syrio becomes a Stark man, Robb lives!!,
Eventual Romance, Slow Burn, SLOW AF, Seriously it's been 50
chapters and still nothing but fluff and friendship, SanSan is a go - I
REPEAT - SanSan is a GO, Finally!! At chapter 56, Background
Relationships, Robb Stark/Jeyne Westerling - Freeform, Minor Jaime
Lannister/Brienne of Tarth, Minor Arya Stark/Gendry Waters,
Daenerys/Margaery - Freeform, Stannis/Davos - Freeform, I blame
AsbestosMouth, Rickon/Shireen - Freeform, OR IS IT,
Sweetrobin/Shireen, I blame SwimmingFox, Oberyn lives!!, Benjen is
found!!, The actual details of beating the White Walkers is
AMBIGUOUS at best

Character:

Additional Tags:

Series:
Stats:

Major Character Death

A Song of Ice and Fire - George R. R. Martin, A Song of Ice and Fire
& Related Fandoms, Game of Thrones (TV)

Part 1 of The Many Relationships of Sandor Clegane

Published: 2016-01-14 Completed: 2016-04-30 Chapters: 64/64
Words: 41698

Friendship Is A Wonderful Thing

by SnowWhiteKnight
Summary

Show a dog kindness and you will earn its undying loyalty.

Notes

Something I was playing with. No rhyme or reason to it. Most of the chapters are pretty
short, not quite drabbles, but close to it. Some are super long though. Inspired partially by
Kallielef's AU drawing of an unburnt Sandor living with the Starks.

An Offered Hand
It was the week after it happened. Rickard Stark and his eldest son came for a visit. He heard the
whispers from the maids who came in to clean his room. It was a welcome distraction from the
pain, listening to them talk, even if it wasnt to him. On their way to Casterly Rock, they said. I
wish I could go with them. Just to leave this awful place.
His father made excuses for his younger sons absence. Bedding caught fire. He wanted to laugh.
He wanted to cry. He wanted to scream. Might have done that one, with the way people would
sometimes come rushing to him, he suspected he might have screamed quite a few times. He
wanted to shout to the world at the top of his lungs that it was Gregor. His brother, his family, his
blood. Gregor did this to me!!
The pain, oh gods, the pain. It would drive him mad. Maybe it had already. He didnt sleep, only
slipped into blessed unconsciousness. The pain. Why would the gods allow this much pain? There
must not be any gods. No being of higher existence could allow this much pain to someone so
young. Did Sister feel this? Did Mother? His thoughts were melding, his voice was raw. He may
have spoken aloud, but maybe it was all in his head.
Then, one day, his head was clearer. The pain wasnt as bad. Still there, but not as terrible. Every
day, it was a little better. Every day, he was a little stronger. Every day was a day closer that he
would be able to get out of bed, and not have to worry that Gregor would come to finish the job
while Sandor lay there helpless.
It was the day he was able to sit up on his own that he had a visitor.
May I come in? an unfamiliar voice asked. Sandor looked up to see a tall boy, nearly a man,
standing at the threshold of his room. He nodded and the boy entered. Pulling up a chair, he sat
next to Sandors bed. I hear youve had some bad luck. Candle fell on your bedding?
Sandor clenched his jaw, embracing the pain it brought to the burnt side of his face. His father had
sworn to beat him if he told anyone the truth, so he nodded fiercely, trying not to cry. The tall boy
looked at him solemnly.
Dont lie, boy. Wolves are better at sniffing out lies than dogs. The tone was gentle, but firm.
Sandor stared at him, unsure of what to say. The maester said your voice hadnt come back yet.
So, how about this? One finger for yes, two fingers for no, and three fingers for unknown. Sound
good?
Sandor thought about it, and showed one finger.
Good, very good. Now, the tall boy lowered his voice, the bedding, did it really catch fire?
Two fingers. Thats what I thought. I heard another story. About a mean, nasty giant of a rabid
dog, heard it tossed a pup into the embers of the hearth. Truth? Hesitation, then one finger.
Figures. Nasty temper on that one. Fought some wolves in the yard a few days ago, nearly took
some heads off. Neither Lord Clegane nor Lord Tywin were pleased about that. Ok, next
question, would you like to leave this place?
Sandor hesitated longer, and finally showed three fingers. The tall boy chuckled.
My father is willing to take you on as a ward. Hes over at Casterly Rock at the moment, but I
came by early to speak to you. I wanted to take you from here as soon as I heard what had
happened, what truly happened. I have younger siblings, two brothers and a sister. If anyone hurt

them, I would kill them. As they would for me. But you...your own family turning on you like
that, I cant even begin to comprehend. It is your choice. Think about it. Ill come back, say this
evening? If you have an answer, great. If not, I can tell you about my home. Regale you with
stories of the north. He laughed. But whatever your answer is, Ill accept it. Rest now, Sandor.
Youre going to need it. With that, the tall boy left the room.

Of Course He Said Yes

Sandor spent the day looking out the window, watching the activity in the field below. The
farmers were hard at work, plowing the field, getting it ready for the new crop. True to his word,
the tall boy returned in the evening, with a plate of food for each of them. He was still in a lot of
pain, but he put on a brave face.
So, what do you say, Sandor?
**********
It was another month before Sandor was allowed to leave Cleganes Keep. The maester wanted to
keep him there longer, but his father insisted if he was well enough to travel, then he should just
go.
Let the maester at Winterfell deal with him, Lord Clegane said, spitting out the name as if it was
poisonous, bitterness and jealousy dripping from every word. Sandors face was carefully
wrapped in bandages, and he set out with the small band of Stark men and his new friend,
Brandon Stark.
**********
Brandon told him stories about the other Starks, how Eddard was too serious for being seventeen
years old, how lovely Lyanna was as wild as the direwolf that was their sigil, and how the
youngest, Benjen, was too adventurous for any of their own good.
Benjen is still older than you, so mind what he says, but dont follow him anywhere unless
Eddard or I give the okay. Got it? Sandor nodded. His voice was still raw and it hurt to speak.
Good. And should anyone say something about your injury that makes you uncomfortable, let
me know.
He spent the rest of the trip listening to stories about the people of his new home, Winterfell.

Meet the Starks...and Jory!

It was odd to be embraced in general. It was even more odd to be embraced by the rest of the
Stark family, even the ever stoic Eddard. The older boy smiled warmly at Sandor. Ive heard a lot
about you, I hope we can be good friends.
Another boy, only two years older than Sandor, introduced himself after the Starks. Im Jory. Ill
show you around, ok? Ask me anything you want, I know all there is to know about Winterfell.
His big grin made Sandor want to grin too, but his face still hurt, so he settled for nodding his head
vigorously. Come on, Ill take you to see Maester Walys, he wants to take a look at your wound.
Then Ill take you to meet my uncle. Hes the master-at-arms. Youre to join us in training once
the maester deems you well enough.
**********
Hmm...yes, well, youll heal, but it will leave a nasty scar. Your previous treatment of it wasnt
as skilled as it could have been, but never worry. I have just the thing to help. The man began to
apply a pungent ointment to the wound. He chuckled as Sandor scrunched up his nose. It stinks,
but it works. Youll need to come see me at least twice a day. Three times if you can manage it.
This will help the flesh grow back, not completely, but at least you wont have any bone showing.
Id say that you can join training as early as next month. Youll have to sit on the side and watch
until then, however. Walys was direct and to the point. Sandor appreciated his honesty, even if
the mans eyes were a bit shifty. The maester at the Keep hadnt even told him that much. Jory
was fidgeting near the door as the maester wrapped Sandor in new bandages.
Come on! Uncle Roderick is going to start without us! Jory grabbed Sandors hand and the two
boys took off.

Sisterly Advice
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

He watched with a wry grin as Brandon easily beat the young upstart that had challenged him for
Lady Catelyn Tullys hand. Small, beady eyes filled with so much anger and hatred, the boy was
older than Sandor, but didnt act like it.
Jory and Lyanna stood next to him. Littlefinger must have some large ones to challenge Brandon
like that, Jory said.
Sandor scoffed, Might have big balls, but Littlefucker doesnt have the skills to back up his
challenge. Did you see the way he moved? Might as well have been standing still. Jory walked
off when Brandon called him over, leaving Sandor behind with Lyanna.
She chuckled, Yes, well, we arent all born natural warriors like you, Sandy.
What did I tell you about calling me that? Sandor growled.
Dont get your smallclothes in a twist. No one else is around, besides Jory, I mean, and hes too
far away to hear by now. Lyanna pointed over to Ned and Benjen who were teasing Catelyn
about the would-be suitor, while Brandon and Jory escorted Petyr to the gates. See? Those idiots
are too busy trying to cheer up Cat.
Is that what theyre calling it? He was close with Brandon, Ned and Benjen, but it was only
Lyanna and Jory he considered his family.
She was near tears when she heard Petyrs challenge. She blames herself. Listen, little brother,
and listen well. Sometimes the only way to get a woman to smile, is to be an ass. Not mean, just
an idiot. Lyanna clapped a hand on his shoulder. One day, youll meet someone who will love
you, and youll be glad for my advice then.
Not likely, he said sourly. The women of the village only looked at him with pity, and the girls
with disgust. At age ten, he had no illusions on having anyone fall in love with his pretty face.
Hey, come on. Somewhere out there, there is the perfect girl for you. Her voice was soft. He
knew she hated it when he was down on himself, but he couldnt help being a realist about it. The
news that his brother had been knighted and then of his fathers death hadnt helped his view of
the world. Being with the Starks or Jory calmed the rage he usually carried with him.
Youre the only female who can look me in the eyes, Lee, and youre my sister. Setting aside our
stations, I cant marry you, thatd be gross.
Ugh, yeah, that would definitely be weird. I guess we lucked out that Father betrothed me to
Robert. Lyanna was looking at the ground studiously.
You are unhappy with the match? Sandor had thought it would make her happy, since Robert
was a family friend and known for his jovial nature. She didnt know him well enough to know
the man was a blowhard, but at least he wouldnt be cruel to her. It could have been much worse.
I have doubts on his fidelity. Ned says hell be loyal once were married, but Lyanna trailed.
Roberts an idiot, Sandor said suddenly. He clearly doesnt know you, even with being friends

with Ned for so long.

Lyanna chuckled. Yeah, that gift he sent the other day was interesting, to say the least.
The man sent you flowered perfumes from Lys. Clearly he doesnt know you prefer to the scent
of horseshit to flowers. Lyannas love of horseback riding was common knowledge, and it had
amused Sandor to no end when he saw the present she had received.
Lyanna covered her mouth to hold in the laughter, At least hes trying. Youre such an ass!
Sandor grinned, Gotta practice for my future wife.
Lyanna wiped a tear from her eye. Tell you what, you can have the perfumes. Save them away
and give them to her on your wedding day.
No woman of mine would want it.
Lyanna smirked, I wouldnt bet on that, but I have to get ready. Were leaving for the tourney at
Harrenhal tomorrow. You and Jory be seeing us off tomorrow, won't you?"

Chapter End Notes

Edited 2/10/2016
I mathed wrong, Sandor should have been 10 in this chapter, not 11.

The First War

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

He knew it would bring disaster but Lyanna refused to listen. Women in love rarely do, he
learned. He found her putting supplies in her saddlebags, her horse cobbled to the lone tree outside
of Winterfell near the Kingsroad. He had found the letters she had been writing to the prince in her
fireplace for nearly a year, most of them burnt, but enough was left of the most recent one that he
knew he had to find her quickly. He threatened to drag her back and lock her in one of the towers
until she came to her senses. She dared him to do it, that she would escape no matter what. He
could not stop her, she told him. No one could. She caught him off guard while he tried to think of
a way to convince her to stay, and tied him to the tree. He watched as she rode off into night to
meet up with the man who had stolen her heart, crying for his sister to come back. Ned and
Benjen found him the next day.
He waited for Brandon and Lord Rickard to return, they were due back within the week, so that
he could tell them himself. Ned agreed, though Benjen wanted to ride after her himself. They
could organize the Stark men and go after Lyanna and the prince. The news reached Lord Rickard
and Brandon before they even made it to Riverrun. Sandor cursed the fact that he couldnt have
ridden after them.
The day Eddard and Robert went to war was the day life for Sandor changed again. After Lyanna
had left with Prince Rhaegar, Lord Rickard and Brandon died at the hands of King Aerys
providing the catalyst for Roberts rebellion against the crown. He was twelve, almost thirteen, but
nearly as big as Ned and Robert, and had proven himself to be an apt fighter. Jory rode beside
him, his brother in arms. He killed his first man before his nameday arrived, fighting alongside his
friends and the man Lyanna had run away from. He killed many men before it was over and done
with, tapping into the rage he felt towards his brother, towards the people who shunned him,
towards Lyanna for being so foolish. He was good at killing. The other Stark men started calling
him The Hound, for his ferocity and tenacity in battle. The three dogs that were his sigil didnt
help. He half hoped and half dreaded coming across Gregor on the field, but fate did not grant
them a meeting. He just wanted his sister back.
He returned to Winterfell nearly a year later with the other Stark men, after the siege of Storms
End was lifted. Ned was on the trail of Lyanna and would return after. Jorys father, whom
Sandor didnt know as well as Jorys uncle, and several other bannermen went with him. Thirteen
years old and he had seen more than his share of blood and violence. They were greeted by the
new Lady Stark and her newborn son, Robb. Catelyn was warm to the others, but her greeting to
Sandor was chilly at best. He knew she didnt trust him, though he had never given her cause to
doubt his loyalty to House Stark.
The news of Lyannas death hit him hard when the rider came in the night. She was his sister and
he mourned her as he waited bitterly for Neds return. Jory took it even harder. Sandor had
suspected Jory had feelings for Lyanna, but he had never spoken of it. Sandor suggested they take
their agitation outside. Several of the wooden dummies in the training yard were found in splinters
the next morning.
He said nothing about the bastard son Ned brought back with him, though it would be a lie that
the look on Catelyns face when presented with the babe didnt bring a small smile to his lips. He
did the math, and knew there was no way the boy could have been sired by Ned. They had been
on the battlefield with no camp followers or other females anywhere within a decent distance, but
there was no denying that the boy had Stark blood. He had his suspicions, but kept them to

himself. If Ned wanted everyone to believe the boy was his, then who was Sandor to question
that?

Chapter End Notes

One of the rules I set for myself is that I have to try to follow the characters'
personalities as closely as possible. Lyanna was a stubborn woman, and I don't think
even her brother Sandor could have stopped her. Sandor is able to prevent some of
the deaths, but not all of them.

A Pox Undeserved
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Sometimes he would venture into the nursery to visit Robb and Jon, whom he had dubbed the
twins. Catelyn wasnt very keen on it, but Ned reminded her that Sandor was just as loyal as any
other Stark man, and could be trusted. She still grumbled, but only when he got close to Robb.
The boys were two years old when Jon came down with the pox. He was put in a separate room
from Robb and Sandor spent a lot of time with him there, speaking softly to him. He listened to
Jons ragged breath and he wanted to hold him, but the maester said it was better for him to lay in
the bed, so he only held his hand. Catelyn would often appear at the threshold, watching him with
Jon.
What are you saying to him? she asked.
To stay strong. His time in this world is not done yet. How his brother would miss him. How I
would miss him. Telling him stories that Brandon once told me, Sandor replied, not turning to
look at her. She had a hard time looking at his face anyways.
You care for him? Why? Hes a bastard of a lowborn woman.
Not his fault he was born. Blame his parents, if you must, but hes just a child. Innocent. Hes a
good boy. They both are. You know that, Lady Stark. I saw the wreath you made for him. I dont
know what prayers you made, but you wouldnt make that if you didnt believe he does not
deserve this. I only hope you really meant those prayers.
She said nothing, and he heard the angry swish of her skirts as she walked away. A few days
later, Jon began to get better.

Chapter End Notes

Can't actually remember if this is canon in the books, but I really liked it in the show
when Cat is talking to Talisa about the wreath.

The Day The Bells Rang

He was sixteen when the little lady was born. The bells rang all day in celebration, crying out their
joy.
He waited with Ned and Jory, outside of the bedchamber as the new maester helped Catelyn
through her second birthing. Jory had to leave for his watch before the septa brought her out,
cocooned in a soft little blanket. Ned cooed to his new daughter as he held her, Welcome to the
world, my little Sansa.
Septa Mordane, would you please come back in here, I need your help, Maester Luwin called
out. His voice held an edge of panic. Ned stiffened and wordlessly handed his daughter to Sandor
before following the septa.
Sandor stared at the now closed door to the bedchamber, then down to the babe in his arms.
Nervousness set in. Oh gods, what if I drop her? What if I crush her? Why would he put her in my
hands? Killers hands? The septa came rushing out, but ignored Sandors attempt at handing her
the newborn.
Just sit with her, she hissed at him, as she returned with more servants. He gulped and looked
down at the little girl. He trudged over the long seat in the room and sat down, careful to not
squeeze her too tight. The twins, as he referred to Robb and Jon, were always screaming for one
thing or another, but this little one, she was relatively calm despite just being born. He wondered
at that, if she would always be such a little lady, or would she be like her brothers, like her aunt?
He couldnt quite picture it. He was startled when she blearily opened her eyes and locked those
Tully blues on him. He wanted to believe she was smiling at him, but the wet nurse for Robb and
Jon had told him babies dont smile, that it was just gas. Still, she was calm and so very small, he
let himself believe that smile was just for him and not gas after all. She yawned, her little mouth
making little smacking noises as she settled into Sandors arms. Her hand had gotten loose from
the blanket. Sandor poked it curiously, trying to get it back under the warm wool. Infantile
instincts kicked in and she gripped it lightly. He chuckled when he saw that her tiny hand barely
fit all the way around his finger. Everything about her was just so tiny. He didnt remember either
of the twins being like this.
Youre like a little bird, he whispered to her.
He sat there with her, in a daze, but also with a calm he hadnt felt since he first met the Starks.
This little life in his arms was precious, and he swore to keep her safe.
**********
He swore when the screaming babe was going on three hours without showing any signs of
stopping. The little bird was unhappy with something, and was letting everyone know about it. It
was late, and nearly half of Winterfell was being kept awake. Ned wasnt helping, as he was
walking her around the castle, trying to soothe her. Catelyn followed behind him. They were
taking turns holding her, but it wasnt doing much good. Sandor and Jory were trailing behind
them. Maester Luwin had given the little bird a tonic, which was supposed to have started
working almost immediately. After listening to her stomach, he said that the tonic had indeed
worked, but the reason for her continued fussiness was unknown.
Oh, I cant walk any further, Catelyn said. She still hadn't fully recovered from her scare during
Sansa's birth, and Sandor knew she was ignoring the maester's orders by being here. She just
wont calm down.

I can go a bit longer, Ned said, though he looked dead on his feet. Ill take her to Maester
Luwin again.
Give the little bird here. Ill take her to Maester Luwin. Sandor noticed the wariness in Catelyns
eyes. He sighed, Jory will accompany me, wont you, Jory? Jory did not look pleased to be
volunteered but nodded.
Ned handed Sansa to Sandor. He murmured to her, rocking her slightly as he walked away from
Ned and Catelyn, There now, little bird, Ive got you. Were just going to go visit the nice
maester.
To everyones astonishment, most of all Sandors, Sansas cries lessened with each step, until she
was sleeping peacefully in Sandors arms.

Bastards Are People, Too

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Sander, Robb said, looking up at him as he held baby Sansa. Jon was next to him, sucking on
his thumb.
What is it, pups? he asked in a low voice. She still had trouble sleeping, even though her first
nameday was fast approaching, and he didnt want to wake her. He had been walking with her for
nearly an hour to make sure she was deep in her dreams. He sometimes wondered what babies
dreamed of.
Is Jon a basser? Robb asked. He means bastard, Sandor realized.
His eyes narrowed. Where did you hear that?
Mudder said it. Of course she did. Whats a basser?
A bas-tard, he said, enunciating the word as he sat down in a chair, is one whose parents were
not married when the babe was born. That doesnt mean he is lesser than you, though, so dont
forget. He is your blood and you both owe each other your love and respect as family. Unless one
of you betrays the other, he said thinking of Gregor, but then his thoughts shifted to Lyanna as he
looked at Jon. But, you should still give each other a second chance, if you can. Just remember,
just because hes a bastard and youre not, doesnt mean its alright to treat him badly. Got it?
Robb rolled his eyes. Yeeesssss. Can we hold Sana? he asked. Jon had crept forward and was
trying to peek at the baby.
Maybe later, Sandor replied.
**********
He pulled Ned aside after dinner. Can I speak to you alone?
Of course, lets adjourn to my solar. Shall we? Ned asked and led the way.
Once there, Sandor began without preamble, I think you should tell Lady Stark the truth about
Jon.
Ned looked surprise. I dont know what you mean
Sandor scoffed, You know exactly what I mean. Anyone who was with you in the field and had
enough sense to figure it out knows what I mean. Look, I know you think youre doing the right
thing, but that boy is the last we have of He needs a mother. And Lady Stark is not going to be
the mother he needs so long as she believes what you told her. Is that what you think Lee would
want? Is that what you think Brandon and your father would want?
Ned fell silent for several moments, deep in thought. He shook his head. I made a
promise...but...what you say is true You will say nothing to anyone else?
Im sure I have no idea what youre talking about, Lord Stark, Sandor said with a half-smile.
Ned chuckled.

**********
He heard voices in the boys room. Im so sorry, little one, Im so sorry he heard a soft voice
say. Lady Stark.
Is ok, mudder, Robbs voice said. Right, Jon?
Yes. Is ok. Soft hugs Jons voice was drowsy. I like your hugs.

Chapter End Notes

Sandor will not tolerate Ned's hangups. Do it right, or face the consequences! Lol

Bruthers Are Mean!

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

A dripping wet set of naked twins were running amok in the halls of Winterfell, having just
escaped their bath and were on a mission. Three year old Sansa was the target. Saaaannsaaaaaa! the boys cried. She shrieked in terror when she saw them and took off in a flash,
running as fast as her chubby little legs could go.
Come give brothers a hug! yelled Jon happily. Sandor rolled his eyes. The twins loved to tease
their little lady of a sister. Catelyn couldnt keep up with them, as pregnant as she was with the
newest Stark, and it was up to the others to keep them in line.
She spotted him after he waved and raced towards him. He had been through this many times
before, the twins being little hellions nearly all the time now, and knelt down as she launched
herself into his arms. He towered over the twins as he stood up, the little bird safely in his arms as
he scowled at them. The hellions merely smiled back at him and reached up for their sister.
Will you two give it a rest already? Look at what youre doing to poor Sansa, Ned said, as he
and Jory werent far behind them, but even they had trouble keeping up with the two energetic
boys. On cue, Sansa sniffled and buried her face in Sandors shoulder as the boys were taken back
to their bath.
Saaan-dee, she cried, not quite able to pronounce Sandor. Bruthers are meeeeeannn.
He patted her on the back, There now, little bird, Ive got you. They just dont know how to play
with a little sister, thats all.
She sniffled again and hugged him tight. I stay here. I safe here.
Catelyn had waddled up and reached for Sansa, Come with me, darling, Sandor has duties to
attend to.
Nooooooo! she screamed, hugging him tighter. He cringed from the volume. San-dee protect
me! I marry San-dee!
Sansa! Catelyn said, shocked from the announcement.
I marry you. Right, San-dee? she asked, suddenly shy. He chuckled.
Sure, little bird, as you wish, but you really should go with your mother now, he said, knowing
she would most likely forget about it once she got older.

Chapter End Notes

Oh, Sandor, you sweet summer child...

Let's Go to Pyke
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Youre leaving tomorrow? Catelyn asked in desperation. Sandor was sitting with the children.
Robb and Jon were making a castle of sticks while Sansa was making a flower crown. She had
already made five for the as yet unborn baby. They were in the godswood, sitting beneath the
heart tree. Ned and Cat were speaking off to the side. The children were ignoring their parents, but
Sandor heard every word.
If I could wait until the babe was born, I would, Eddard said softly. Robert needs the strength
of Winterfell. The Greyjoys are not to be trifled with. Ill return as quickly as I can, I promise. Jory
will be staying here with Ser Rodrick to protect Winterfell and you and the children. You will be
safe. Ned embraced Catelyn. I will return.
And who will keep you safe so that you do return? she asked sullenly.
San-dee will! Sansa said happily, placing the flower crown on his head. Guess she was paying
attention after all.
Yes, Mother, Jon said. Sandor will keep Father safe. Robb nodded along with him. Catelyn
glared at Sandor, but nodded before turning back to Ned.
**********
If you dare let anything happen to Ned, dont even bother coming back, Catelyn hissed at him.
The army of Winterfell was about to depart and the Stark family, among others, were seeing them
off.
Cat Ned started, pulling her off to the side to speak to her. Sandor merely shook his head.
The twins and Sansa ran up to him.
Sandor! Are you going to kill anyone on the battlefield? Robb asked.
Of course he is! Jon said, Hes a warrior and warriors kill people in battle. Right, Sandor?
Yes, pups, I will most likely kill people in battle, he said with a grin. He was going to miss these
two.
But, you come back, right? Right, San-dee? Sansa asked, her lower lip quivering. The twins
looked at her, then each other, and finally back to Sandor. They hadnt considered that.
He knelt down to be at her level. Do you want me to come back? he asked.
He knew her answer would be yes, but he didnt expect her to throw her arms around his neck
and sob, Yeeesss! Imma marry you. You hafta come back!
He froze for a moment, unsure of what to do, but she was crying so hard, he gave in and wrapped
his arms around her. Enough of that now, little bird. Ill miss you, too. And Ill be back. I
promise. You know how I feel about promises and vows. She pulled away enough to look him
in the face and nodded. He wiped the tears from her eyes. Now, be a good girl. Your brothers
will protect you in my stead, wont you, pups? No terrorizing your baby sister? He turned to the
twins, who nodded vigorously. See? And Ill bring you something. Just so you know I was

thinking about you, too.

She sniffled and nodded again. She pulled a handkerchief from her sleeve and gave it to him. A
small red bird was embroidered on it, not particularly well, but he could at least tell what it was.
Septa Mordane says ladies givva favor to their knights as good luck. Muther helped me, but I
dinnt tell her what it was for. Yor not a knight, yor better, so I give you this. Oh! An this! She
stood on her tiptoes and placed a kiss on his burnt cheek. Septa Mordane says a kiss is good luck,
too! So now you have double luck! She smiled happily at him.
Sandor was a little choked up from emotion. The whore he visited in Wintertown had said she
would miss him, but he hadn't really believed her. Sansa, on the other hand...he managed to kiss
Sansas forehead as thanks before he had to join the rest of the army. The twins hugged him as
well before running off with Sansa in tow to say goodbye to their father.

Chapter End Notes

I almost had Sandor stay behind, but it was pointed out to me that while he's the
unofficial Stark babysitter, it would make more sense for him to go, since he's still on
the path to becoming the battle hardened warrior we all know and love. Thank you,
SassyEggs, for keeping me on the straight and narrow! :D
Coming up next time! The return from Pyke and the new ward of Winterfell, Theon
Greyjoy!

Battle A Squid; Return With A Ward

The battles were long and grueling. He felt like he was half dead as he fought day after day. The
Ironborn were not skilled warriors, but they were tough and determined, and it took a lot to kill
them. Every night when he went to sleep, he half expected to not wake up again. It was similar to
when he fought in Roberts rebellion, but this time he knew someone was waiting for him. Three
someones, to be precise, even if she was just a child of nearly four years, and the twins were just
wanting to hear tales of the war, but it helped. He was able to focus, his sword seemed lighter, his
aim truer. Or maybe that was the fatigue talking. Either way, the Ironborn were dead men. He had
made a promise. He would come home.
He was not privy to the negotiations between Robert and Balon Greyjoy, but the entirety of the
Stark men knew soon enough. They were taking a hostage, Balons remaining son, as a ward of
Winterfell. The other two sons had been killed in battle. He didnt really get a good look at the
boy until they arrived back at Winterfell, and he was presented to Lady Stark and the children.
The Greyjoy boy was welcomed by the Stark children, though Sandor did not appreciate that
Theons attitude towards Jon turned cold once he learned he was a Snow. He may have enjoyed
the look of fear Theon had when he saw Sandors burns a bit too much because of this.
Sansa ran to greet him, despite her mothers pleas to act more ladylike. He thought he was going
to be choked to death, she hugged his neck so hard. She kissed his cheeks and said she knew he
would keep his promise. He got another death hug when he presented her with a seashell he had
found on her name day. It was small and delicate, and had looked out of place on the grey shores
of Pyke. It seemed perfect for her.
Catelyn presented Ned with the child born in their absence, a little girl named Arya. Ned held
embraced his wife tightly, then held his new daughter. She looks like Lyanna, he whispered.
Sandor thought it was too soon to tell, but then the babes mouth did that little half-smile he was
used to seeing on his sister, and had to agree. He wondered if it was gas.
The Greyjoy boy grew lenient much too quickly for Sandors liking, however, when he saw that
little Sansa had no fear of the scarred warrior. Theon joined Robb and Jon in the training yard,
though Theon was old enough to practice with the men and see Sandor spar. He was even given
an opportunity to spar with Sandor himself. He left the yard with a healthy fear of the Hound.

Storytelling And Buggering Knights

Catelyn was pregnant again. The twins and Sansa took care of Arya under the watchful gaze of
the wet nurse, Old Nan, Sandor, and Septa Mordane, with Theon sometimes hanging around. The
wet nurse ignored all of the adults. Old Nan couldnt remember who he was half the time, and he
and the septa had come to an understanding. He wouldnt curse and she wouldnt preach at him.
They didnt always keep to their understanding, though he was proud to say he was the better of
the two of them. At least until the children started mimicking him. Sansa was easy enough to bribe
with lemon cakes, but the boys were more stubborn and more than once he had to make good on
his threats if they repeated his colorful language.
Septa Mordane would often read them the fanciful tales of knights and their ladies, while Nan
would tell them the tales of the North, of Beyond the Wall. Sansa had stars in her eyes after the
tales of the knights. Robb was the one who asked, Why are there so few knights in the north?
The customs of the North do not recognize the ways of the South in this matter. Ser Rodrick is an
exception. If Sandor Clegane had grown up in the South where he was born, instead of here at
Winterfell, he would have become a knight.
Bugger that, he sneered. I spit on knights and their vows.
Language! Septa Mordane said, horrified. The children just giggled. Sansa got up from her spot
on the floor and went to sit in Sandors lap.
I still like you, even if you she looked over to the septa, who was beginning another story.
She beckoned him to come closer and she whispered in his bad ear, Even if you spit on knights.
Because yor Sandor! An yor the bestest! She grinned and hugged him.
He smiled back at her and returned the hug. It was still one of the nicest things anyone had ever
said to him.

Horsey
Chapter Notes

Short chapter. Will upload another one later today.

Jon insisted on being carried by Sandor on his nameday. He wasnt sure how a twenty year old
became the official Stark babysitter, but he had somehow accomplished it, much to Catelyns ire.
If Sansa was his favorite Stark, Jon was his second (he refused to think of him as a Snow), though
baby Arya could possibly be a contender for second place, since she was already exhibiting
mannerisms like Lyanna, even at such a young age.
Sansa and Robb followed after Sandor like little ducklings as he carried Jon on his shoulders
throughout the castle. To his great amusement, they started quacking and tucking their arms to
their side as wings when he remarked on it to them. Jon loved it and joined in. Theon Sourface
followed as well, but Sandor knew it was because he wanted to be around Robb, and not because
he wanted to join in the merriment.
Someday, Imma be as tall as you, Sandor! Jon proclaimed after the ride was over. Sandor just
chuckled as he handed the boy the wooden horse he had gotten him as a present.

Baby Brother, Not A Sister

Chapter Notes

Two short chapters make a big chapter, yes?

The bells rang loudly for the birth of the newest Stark. Brandon was already the apple of his
mothers eye and he was only a few days old. Ned held one year old Arya up to meet the new
baby, while Sansa peeked around her fathers legs. Sandor stood outside the door, waiting to talk
to Ned. The twins were over the novelty of a new baby and were out playing with Theon. The
boy was still standoffish to Jon, but Robb defended him and that was good enough for Sandor.
Mu-ther, Sansa said, Is the baby a boy?
Yes, my darling. Why do you ask? Catelyn looked tired still, but happy.
Sansa pouted. Now therere three boys, only two girls! Can the next baby bea girl?
Catelyn laughed. Ill try, darling.

A Shield, A Realization
Chapter Notes

Bonus Update
:)

Today is your nameday, Sansa. What would you like as a present? her father asked her at the
breakfast table. She was five years old, and looked like a miniature version of Catelyn, right down
to the dress she was wearing but without all the hostility Lady Stark could hold in her eyes.
She scrunched up her face in intense thought. I want...for Sandor to be my shield! She smiled
up at him. Will you, Sandor? Pleasepleaseplease? Its all I want!
Ned looked over at Sandor, a very tall twenty-one year old. He shrugged. As you wish, little
bird, he said, hiding the doll he had gotten her behind his back.
Later, Ned pulled him aside. They sat on a bench, watching Sansa show off her presents to Jeyne
Poole amidst the small feast being held in Sansas honor. The doll wasnt allowed in anyones
hands except Sansas. You sure you want to be a shield? Shes only five. She wont need a
formal protector for several more years.
Ned, I dont mind. Ive been watching over her for years. Might as well make it formal now.
Maybe Lady Stark will stop fussing over how much time the girl spends with me. Sandor still
had yet to win any of Catelyns approval.
Ned laughed. Shell come around eventually. I hope. No one else doubts your loyalty to the
Starks, and especially to Sansa.
**********
How come Sansa has a shield and we dont? Robb asked Ned one day. The family was taking a
rare picnic near the Wolfswood. Sandor and a few other men were with them as guards. Theon
was with them as a trainee.
You dont really need one, Ned replied.
Neither does Sansa, Catelyn retorted. Sansa frowned but the twins nodded vigorously.
Yeah! Why does she get one if she doesnt need one? Robb asked.
Its only fair, Jon added.
Ned gave Catelyn a look that said Why?! To the twins he said, Sansa is a lady, and unable to
defend herself as you two have been taught. Besides, she asked Sandor. Nicely. And he agreed.
Well, why cant she just learn to fight then? Like us? Catelyn was horrified, but Ned just gave
her another look, This is what you started.
She cant learn to fight, shes a lady! Catelyn exclaimed.

What do ladies learn then? Jon asked.

Well, for instance, embroidery, etiquette, singing, managing a household Catelyn listed.
What?! Thats useless! Robb said. Ned smacked him. Well, it is! Most of it. What happens if
someone tries to hurt her? Sing the attacker away? Ask nicely that he Please would you go
away?
Thats what Sandor is for, Sansa said stubbornly. Its why hes with me constantly.
But what if he cant, for whatever reason. Theres multiple attackers, or something. Shouldnt
you be able to defend yourself, as well? The gods help those who help themselves, Jon pointed
out. Shouldnt she learn at least something ? Shes only five, but we started learning when we
were seven.
Ned looked at Sansa, and then Arya, realization dawning in his eyes as Catelyn continued to
argue her points.

Catelyn Puts Her Foot Down

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Sandor sat with Jon in the training yard. Robb and Theon were sparring at the moment, Ser
Rodrick overseeing the exercise.
If you twist as you attack, Sandor was telling him, then--
Sandor!!
They all turned. Sansa was running across the yard, tears streaming down her face. He barely had
time to kneel before she launched herself into his arms. He held her as she sobbed.
Little bird, he murmured, stroking her hair, whats the matter? Wheres your mother? You
were supposed to be in embroidery all afternoon.
She kept crying and shook her head.
Yes, you told me you were going to make your first dress. You had a special fabric all picked
out.
She didn't speak, just sobbed all the harder.
Sansa, Jon whispered. Do you want me to go find Mother for you? She shook her head
violently. Did something happen?
Sansa did not answer. She just kept crying. Jon exchanged a look with Sandor, both of them were
at a loss here.
Sansa, Catelyns voice came to them. She had a pained look on her face. Sansa gripped at
Sandor harder. Sansa, come here, darling. You are bothering the training.
Sansa slowly ceased her crying. She looked up at Sandor and then to the other people in the
training yard. Sandor pulled out a handkerchief and wiped Sansa's face clean.
There now, little bird. All better. Will you tell me what's wrong now? he asked gently.
Sansa! Catelyn said sternly.
Sansa looked up at him again. She shook her head. I shouldgo with Mother, she said meekly.
She kissed Sandor on the cheek before leaving his embrace. He couldn't say why he thought it,
but it felt like she was saying goodbye.
Sansa, Ill see you after embroidery, he said. It felt more like a question to him.
She nodded and smiled widely, but it lacked her usual warmth. Yes, after embroidery.
Two weeks later, Sansa wore the dress she had made. It was dark grey, almost black. Robb joked
that she looked like a silent sister or someone off to become a septa. Sansa smiled, but it was the
same fake smile Sandor had seen in the training yard. She still refused to tell him why.
Jon spoke with him after dinner. Finally got Jeyne to talk. She said that Sansa picked a color
Mother refused to let her use. She forced Sansa to exchange it after they left the training yard that

day. Something about it being inappropriate for a lady of her rank. That it would make people
think wrongly of her. Jeyne didn't hear all of it.
I would think it be the cut of a dress that would do that. What color did she pick?
Jeyne wasn't sure, she didn't see it. She thought it might have been light orange or yellow. Jon
shrugged, at a loss for what else to say.
It made no sense to Sandor either.

Chapter End Notes

Please don't kill me. I did add "Angst" as a tag. Technically, "Fluff And Angst".

Arya To The Rescue

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Sander, the little voice said. Whyr you in mud?

Hush, wolf girl, and get down, he whispered. Four year old Arya immediately squatted down in
the mud next to him. It had been the only hiding spot big enough for him, and was unfortunately
also the place where the maids had dumped some dirty water out from cleaning. Arya had no
qualms about getting down and dirty, as opposed to Sansa, who tried to stay clean as much as
possible.
Whatre we doing? she asked in a whisper.
Trying to figure out whats bothering your sister. Shes been depressed for nearly a month now.
He gestured over to where Sansa was sitting with Jeyne. The other girl was talking animatedly,
but Sansa didn't look like she was paying much attention. She wont tell anyone why. I think
your mother knows, but shes not saying anything either. To her credit, shes tried to cheer Sansa
up, but its not working.
I ask, she said, getting up and walking over to the two older girls.
Get back here! he hissed. Arya ignored him.
He couldnt hear what they were saying, but Arya was gesturing wildly. Finally, she pointed over
to where Sandor was hiding. Sansa looked over with wide eyes, surprised that she hadnt noticed
him. She patted her sisters head and headed over to Sandor. Were jus worried, Sana!! Arya
called out.
He stood up as she got closer. She looked him up and down, covered in mud from his hiding spot.
Youre really worried, arent you? she asked quietly.
Of course. We all are, he said, then added, I dont like seeing you so sad. Tell me, little bird, is
there anything I can do?
Her eyes glistened a little, but she shook her head. No, there isnt. I wish you could though. I
just...I had to learn an unfair truth. Ill try to do better, Sandor. She smiled up at him, a genuine
smile that released the pressure on his heart that he hadnt even realized was there. Arya came
running up and hugged her sister from behind, leaving muddy hand prints on Sansa's dress. Sansa
merely sighed and turned around to return the hug to her sister. "Thank you, Arya."

Chapter End Notes

Next chapter is one of my favorites, so there will be another extra update for it! I'm
just super impatient and I don't want to wait two whole days for the regular schedule.
It's also one of the longest chapters of this story. Generally, most of the chapters
happen after an extended period of time from the previous one, so the events I wrote
were so close together, I made them into one super-chapter. Stay tuned for tomorrow,
Wednesday! Regular update schedule will resume on Thursday.

The Trouble With Whores

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Sandor had the afternoon off. Not that you could really tell. Sansa was still there, braiding some
long grass blades into a little crown, humming to herself. Her nameday was approaching and she
was making the crowns as a lead up to it.
I really need a hobby. Or a trip to Wintertown. Maybe visit Mallory She was one of the few
whores that didnt flinch when they saw his face. And she made him feel like a king when he
visited her.
He scooped Sansa up. She was too old for it, but he sometimes missed holding her as he did when
she was a baby. She never complained about it, so he didnt see the harm. Where are we going?
she asked.
To your mother, little bird. Time for your lessons anyway, and I have to go see someone in
Wintertown.
May I come, too? she asked. Please? Ill be good.
Trust me, little bird, its not a trip for a little lady such as yourself. She huffed a little. Ill bring
you back something nice, ok? No sad faces. Deal? She thought about it seriously, sighed
melodramatically, nodded in extreme seriousness, then grinned and wrapped her arms around his
neck to hug him. He was glad she wasnt in her depressed state anymore, but he had an odd
feeling she was keeping a distance, despite her affectionate nature. Sometimes he would catch her
staring into the distance with sad eyes.
**********
Jory went with him, and laughed as they left the brothel. You have to bring her back a gift?
Nothing big, maybe a hair comb?
You know shes going to be devastated if she ever finds out you regularly visit a brothel. And
once she learns what one is, Jory said as they headed to the small merchant area. The gods help
us that day.
What? Why? he asked in genuine confusion.
Jory looked at him in surprise, then laughed again. You poor blind fool, he said, and refused to
say anything else on the matter, but would look over at Sandor every so often and start laughing
all over again.
**********
Sansa.
She turned away from him, her little chin jutting out adorably.
Sansa, he stepped in front of her. She turned her head the other way, but he captured her chin
and gently forced her to look at him. It wasnt difficult. She wasnt mad, just upset. He was
determined to find out why. Look at me, Sansa. She did, but she made a huff about it and it

amused him to no end. He wanted to laugh, but that wouldnt help right now. He steeled his
features and said, Whats wrong?
Nothing.
Youre making a lot of fuss over nothing, girl. She frowned. He knew she hated it when he
called her that.
She huffed a little more. He could be patient. Being a caretaker of this many Starks required it.
Jory was standing in the doorway, leaning against the frame. He managed to muffle his laughter,
but Sandor could still see his friends shoulders shaking with mirth. It was making it harder to take
this situation seriously. He made a note to get him back later in the training yard. Any moment
now, shell start chirping.
Mother said you were going to go see a woman in Wintertown, she said finally.
A woman? he asked in confusion. He only went to Wintertown to see a woman for one reason
and...oh. Even Jory had realized what she was referring to and had ceased his laughter. Sandor
wasnt sure, but he thought Jory was mouthing I told you! Sandor just glared at him.
What did she say about this woman? he asked carefully.
That she was the most likely candidate to be your lady wife, Sansa said, her lower lip pushed
out in a pout. Damn it Catelyn. But you cant get married! You have to stay here as my shield!
You have to protect me! I cant lose you like this! she suddenly sobbed and threw herself into his
arms. He had been her shield for nearly two years now, and the most dangerous threat to her had
been Theon with his unwelcome kisses. Why would she believe she needs me when shes so safe
here? he wondered.
Sansa, Im not going to marry her, he said. Mallorys not wife material anyway. She pushed
away from him enough to look up at him with a tear streaked face.
Youre not? Promise?
I promise. Ill always be here for you, to protect you and keep you safe. Do you believe me?
She nodded and wiped her face with her hand. He handed her his handkerchief. She daintily
cleaned herself up, though she still made a slight honking noise when she blew her nose. He
smiled at that. Now, did your mother tell you that directly? Sansa looked down at her feet
guiltily. You were eavesdropping, then. She looked up at him sheepishly and nodded. Well,
that is very unladylike. As the person who watches over you, I am burdened with administering
punishment as well. Her face fell. She was really making this too easy. Soyou will have to
help Arya with her etiquette lessons today.
Her scream of horror let him know she wouldnt be doing any more eavesdropping and was worth
the splitting of his eardrums. Jory did not agree.
**********
He and Sir Rodrick were trailing behind Lord and Lady Stark as they toured Wintertown with
their children. We have some new recruits coming in next week, Sir Rodrick said. Would you
be willing to train with them the first two weeks?
Why not ask Jory? Sandor asked, noticing that Sansa was distracted by a food stand that had
lemon cakes and had fallen behind the rest of her family. Jory and another man-at-arms kept up
with them, so Sandor wasnt particularly worried about their safety. He shook his head as he saw
her eyeing the sweets. Honestly, that girl Though he knew he would ultimately end up buying

her one and telling her not to tell her parents.

Hell train with them as well, but you have a knack for getting them to buckle down, despite your
youth. Id like to groom both of you to become the next master-at-arms. Lord Stark will have the
final say, of course, but I think both of you have potential.
Sandor chuckled. I appreciate the thought, he said, noticing that Mallory and another whore
were standing very close to Sansa at the food stall. They hadnt noticed the girl, but Sandor
suddenly had a bad feeling. I do have my hands full as Lady Sansas shield, however, he said,
just as Sansa started screaming at Mallory.
Dont say that about him!! Take it back! Take it BACK! she shrieked, pounding her small fists
against Mallorys legs.
Oy! You little brat! Didnt anyone teach you any manners? Mallory hissed and raised her hand,
to slap or hit, Sandor didnt know, but he caught her wrist before she could do anything.
Sandor! she exclaimed in surprise, but schooled her features and voice to the honeyed tones he
was used to hearing from her. Come to save me from the little beast? she purred.
Sandor raised an eyebrow at her. Keeping my lady from getting hurt, he said gruffly, letting go
of Mallory and turning to Sansa. Lady Sansa, what happened?
Lady Sansa?! he heard Mallory exclaim in horror behind him. She tried to run, but the other
whore wouldnt let her. Its useless to run, idiot, he heard her hiss at Mallory.
Sansa was crying, her eyes were red and she had forgotten her manners by wiping her nose with
her sleeve. She sniffled and said meekly, She was saying... not nice things about you. She
looked uncomfortable that all eyes were on her at the moment.
Clegane, should I go get Lord and Lady Stark? Sir Rodrick asked. Mallory yelped.
Sandor grimaced, but said, No, I dont think its necessary right now, but if they head back in this
direction, flag them down. He turned back to Sansa. What did she say that pushed you into
hitting her? You know violence isnt the answer for you.
Sansa sniffled again. I...I know...but she said...she said you were a stupid fool to believe her
sweet words. And that she didnt even have to use half her charm to get the best coin from you.
The other one said she shouldnt speak that way of a regular, so shes alright. But then this one
laughed! She laughed at you! Sansa turned to Mallory, the rage back on her face. Youre the
stupid fool! Sandor is the best and he deserves every bit of respect you can scrounge up, you
lying...lying She scrunched her face up and then said the worst insult she could think up,
whore!
Sandor wasnt sure whether to be flattered she was defending him, angry that Mallory had duped
him so completely, or amused that Sansas worse insult was Mallorys actual profession. The other
whore laughed. He shook his head and smiled fondly at Sansa, who was still glaring at Mallory.
Lady Sansa, he said softly. She turned to look at him, fear and shame in her eyes. He knew she
didnt regret her actions or words, but was fearful of his reaction. Thank you for defending my
honor, he said with a barely suppressed smile. Go with Sir Rodrick. I will settle things here and
catch up in a few moments. She returned his smile with a shy one and nodded.
In a staged whisper, she said, Dont kill her though, shes not worth the effort of cleaning her
dirty blood off your blade. A final glare at Mallory and Sansa haughtily walked off with Sir
Rodrick to join her family.

Sandor...I
Give it a rest, Mal. Suffice it to say, I will not be returning for your services. Sandor turned to
face her fully, his anger extremely evident on his face. Mallory shrank back from the Hound a bit.
He leaned forward to whisper harshly in her ear, However, you tried to strike my lady, your liege
lords daughter. Come near her again, and you will regret the day your father failed to pull out.
He left her speechless as he ordered and paid for lemon cakes for all of the Stark children.
As he walked away, he heard the other whore, Ros, tell her, I told you so.

Chapter End Notes

Hope it's ok that I borrowed Mallory again FancyKid!

Stark Family Prankster

Chapter Notes

Or "Why It's Not A Good Idea To Follow Benjen Blindly"

Benjen! Sandor exclaimed. He hadnt seen the man since he hightailed it to the Wall after Ned
returned from Roberts rebellion. Black suits you. What are you doing here?
Robbs nameday celebration. Ned asked me to come. Said it's about time I meet the kids,
Benjen grinned as he embraced his friend. How are things here? Howre the children?
Come see for yourself. Benjen followed Sandor to the lesson room. Robb, Jon and Theon were
learning numbers from Vayon Poole, while Sansa, Arya and Jeyne are learning letters from Septa
Mordane. It was Jon who noticed them first. He nudged Robb. Theon noticed next. Arya noticed
the boys attention was drawn away from the lessons, which drew Sansa and Jeynes attention.
Benjen Stark! As I live and breathe! Come here, boy! Give an old man a hug! Vayon
exclaimed, though he wasn't that much older than Brandon would have been. After embracing,
Valon turns to the children. None of you will remember, but this is Lord Eddards younger
brother, Benjen. Robb, Sansa, Arya, Jon, hes your uncle. The four children got up from their
seats to greet him.
You look like Father, Robb exclaimed. And Jon. And Arya.
Benjen chuckled, Well, I am a Stark and your fathers brother, afterall. You and Sansa look more
like your mother than your father. He sat down with them, Now, tell me all about yourselves.
And then, Ill tell you of a great joke we can play on Lord and Lady Stark!
Sandor shook his head, but couldnt hide his grin as the children flocked to their uncle. Even
Jeyne and Theon found their way into the huddle. Septa Mordane tsked at the joke, but Sandor
could see that she was trying very hard not to laugh. Veyon chuckled and returned to his other
duties, knowing he had lost the childrens attention for the day.
Later, Sandor managed to hold back his laughter as Benjen predicted the personalities, hobbies,
likes and dislikes of each child that he had never met before to Ned and Catelyn.
Knowledge from Beyond The Wall, Benjen said cryptically, when Ned asked him about it.
Sandor had to leave the room to laugh, though Ben eventually told them the truth.

Oss! And Bow

Sandor, what are we doing in here? Sansa asked. They were standing in a room of one of the
abandoned buildings. The inside of this one had been fixed up and sparsely furnished. The floor
was covered in thick, dense mats and various practice weapons adorned the walls. Jon was there,
too.
Your father wants you to at least be able to defend yourself, little bird. Just in case, something
happens to me, he said, raising his hand before she could protest. You are the same age as your
brothers when they first started training, a little older actually. Your mother doesnt know about
this. No one does. Just you, me, your brothers and your father. Youre not going to tattle on us,
now are you?
She shook her head. But... I...Im scared. What if I get hurt? she asked meekly.
Sandor sighed and knelt down. I would never lie to you, you know that. She nodded. There is
a possibility you may get hurt, but if its a choice between getting hurt in practice or getting killed
in a real situation, then I think Id rather you get hurt here. Once Arya is old enough, shell be
receiving these lessons, too. Fair? She nodded again, sullen but wouldnt argue with him.
Alright then, youre going to need to change into these clothes. Wont do to mess up your nice
dress. Jon and I will wait outside until you finish changing.
She let them know once she was done. Ned had had the clothing specially made, breeches that
were hidden by the skirt of the dress, the arms were looser around the shoulders, to give more
range of motion.
Alright, Jon is going to play the part of the attacker, then well switch to me. Well go slow at
first. If you dont understand something, just ask. In future lessons, Robb and your father will join
us to help give you a variety of body sizes to fight against. Jory may help as well. Basically, your
father wants you to be prepared in as many instances as possible. You will not be learning to
attack, just how to defend, but you will learn how to hit someone and how to take a hit. Are you
ready, little bird?
She didnt look ready, but nodded. I am ready. I trust you, Sandor.
She did rather well, keeping her fears tamped down during her lesson, and listening attentively so
that she could react appropriately. Ned came in for a while to watch and see how she was doing.
Later, after her lesson and once Jon and Ned had left, she curled up in Sandors arms and cried her
fears to him.
Itll be ok, little bird. This is for your own good. Ill be here after every lesson if you need to cry
about it again. Hopefully, you will never have to use these lessons, but it eases your fathers mind,
and mine as well, to know you will have this knowledge.
It does? she asked. He nodded and wiped away her tears, glad that she had calmed down.
Im doubling my own efforts as well, he said. She looked up at him curiously. Ive been
training to fight groups, larger and larger groups. Ever since Jon pointed it out two years ago. At
the time, I could maybe handle five men. Right now, its up to ten. Switching between fighting
one man to ten is difficult, but not only am I benefitting from it, so are the warriors of Winterfell.
Ser Rodrick is extremely pleased by all of our progress. So see, youre not alone in this. As one of
the Starks of Winterfell, you have all of its power standing behind you.

She nodded solemnly. I will do my best to not disappoint, she promised.

The Last Time The Bells Tolled

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

The bells rang again. Sandor stood at the door of the master bedchamber, watching his charge and
her family. Maester Luwin and Septa Mordane stood with him, waiting to finish caring for Lady
Stark. Rickon Stark was the last child born to Lady Stark, though they did not know it at the time.
He was born with a head full of wild locks that only Jon had had. All of the children greeted their
new brother, at Neds insistence, though all the boys and Arya wanted it to be over and done with
already. Sansa stayed behind as the others rushed off to go play before lessons started.
Mother, may I hold him? she asked politely.
Of course, darling. Remember, support his back, neck and head. She handed Rickon over to
Sansa. Ned curled up to his exhausted wife, whispering sweet nothings in her ear. Sandor felt a
slight pang at the sight, knowing that he would never have such a moment for himself. What
woman would want the dreaded Hound as a suitor, much less a husband?
Hes beautiful, Mother, Sansa whispered. Sandor watched her with Rickon. The patience and
childcare she learned from helping with Arya and Bran was being reflected. He smiled to himself.
She had only learned it because she had insisted on being around him when he was roped into
helping by Septa Mordane. Shes going to be a wonderful mother someday.

Chapter End Notes

Sansa is approximately 9 years old in this scene. Should I just start listing the ages in
the end notes?
Edit: Adding ages, as requested. To tell the truth, I get them a little fuddled so I
constantly have to remind myself how old everyone is. X_x' Since I don't know
exactly when all these characters were born during the year, the ages might be off by
a little bit.
Ned - 32
Catelyn - 31
Sandor - 25
Theon - 17
Robb - 12
Jon - 12
Sansa - 9
Arya - 7
Bran - 6
Rickon - newborn

Reactions May Vary

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Arya was more than thrilled to have her first defense lesson. Sansa told Sandor later that she found
it amusing the difference between her reaction and Aryas to learn about the lessons. Sandor just
shrugged and said, Youre different people. Its ok to have different reactions.
He was impressed with the speed Arya adapted to the lessons, though he reflected that he
shouldnt have been surprised. She was more like Lyanna than anyone had ever guessed, though
without the ability to still be ladylike when it was needed. In that regard, it would be Sansa who
was more like Lyanna. Their temperaments were similar, though Sansas courtesy was more
refined, thanks to Lady Catelyn, and her wolf nature didnt rear its head very often, unlike
Lyanna.
Courtesy is a ladys armor, she told Arya. You really ought to learn to control your temper at
least.
I dont want to be a lady, Arya whined. I want to be a warrior. Like Father. Hmmm...should
talk to Ned about that. Defense lessons are fine, but this one might need offensive lessons as well.
Then be a lady warrior. No one will be able to touch you then, Sansa said. They were sparring
against each other today. Arya was playing the attacker, which she was rather good at, Sandor
noted. She lunged for her sister with a mock roar. Sansa shrieked, but she managed to remember
what to do and Arya went flying past her into Jon.
Little sister, if you keep announcing where you plan on going, Sansas not going to learn much,
Jon chuckled.
Arya dusted off her training clothes determinedly and said, Im trying to throw her off balance.
She still reacted, even with me screaming, so shes still able to learn. Not everyone who attacks
her is going to be quiet like you, Jon. Or you, Robb. And if Sandor did that, shed likely faint from
the force of his bellows alone. So really, its up to me to toughen her up. Arya put her hands on
her hips with authority.
Everyone laughed as Sansa snuck up behind her sister and caught her in a spinning hug in
revenge, Arya's short legs nearly hitting Robb in the head.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Ned - 33
Catelyn - 32
Sandor - 26
Theon - 18
Robb - 13
Jon - 13
Sansa - 10
Arya - 8

Bran - 7
Rickon - 1

I Am A Prisoner, Not A Guest

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Theon was sitting on a barrel, watching Robb and Jon practice their swordplay. Sansa and Arya
were practicing their embroidery with their mother and a few other women. Their defense lessons
would be later that day and Sandor was considering introducing small weaponry into those
lessons. It was something to discuss with Ned later, but for now, Theon should be practicing his
own swordsmanship.
Tired already? Sandor asked him.
No, not physically. Its just...I dont understand.
Understand? Understand what? he asked Theon.
Robb asked me why I wasnt happy that my nameday celebration is coming up soon. How am I
supposed to be happy when Im a prisoner of Winterfell?
Sandor stared at him. Youre a ward of Winterfell. Same as I was. Not a prisoner. Prisoners dont
get their own rooms in the castle.
You chose to come here. Chose to stay and become a Stark man. I didnt. Im a prisoner, Theon
insisted. I cant go back home. Ever.
Sandor sat quietly for a few moments. Most wards are not consulted before becoming one. Its
something their parents decide, he said. I was given a choice to come here, or stay at Cleganes
Keep. If I had stayed, I would probably be dead right now, by Lord Gregors hand. It wasnt
much of a choice but I chose this, and I have never regretted it. Can you really say your stay here
has been so awful?
Theon grunted, but made no other reply.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less, the same as previous chapter plus a few months)
Ned - 33
Catelyn - 32
Sandor - 26
Theon - 18
Robb - 13
Jon - 13
Sansa - 10
Arya - 8
Bran - 7
Rickon - 1

Step Down/Back Off

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

You should step down as Sansas shield. Catelyn was quite blunt for a lady, when she wanted
to be, Sandor noted.
Lady Stark he started.
No! It is unseemly! You are sixteen years her senior, and she hangs onto you like a lovesick
child. She is fourteen, nearly fifteen! Catelyn said harshly.
He sighed. Lady Stark, of all the men in Winterfell, who is the best warrior?
She looked away, her frown set firmly in place. You are, she said grudgingly.
Of all the people in Winterfell, who does she listen to the most?
Catelyn huffed and said, You. You have too much influ--
I always encourage her to do the right thing, he pointed out. And do you know how much Ned
pays me to stay and be a warrior for Winterfell? A shield for Sansa?
She shook her head. Probably the same as Jory, since hes captain of the guards.
Lady Stark, he pays me room, board, and a small stipend.
Her head snapped up so quickly, Sandor thought it was a wonder it didnt separate from the rest of
her. That cant be!
You can check with Ned if youd like, ask to see the castle ledgers. Being Lady Sansas shield is
an honor. I do not require much in the way of payment. She is my friend as well as my charge. I
would die for her, Cat. Never doubt that. Ever since the day she was born, I swore I would keep
her safe. If you still feel I should step down, then I will, but I will never stop protecting Sansa, nor
will I stop being her friend.
She turned on her heel and stormed out of the room. Later at the evening meal, she caught his eye.
It was the first time Catelyn Stark had ever looked at him with anything other than contempt. He
might even call it respect.

Chapter End Notes

Time jump!
I honestly have no idea how a sworn shield is compensated, so I kind of just made
stuff up. He protects her because he loves her, though it's not quite at love love yet.
Ages (More or less)
Ned - 37
Catelyn - 36
Sandor - 30

Theon - 22
Robb - 17
Jon - 17
Sansa - 14
Arya - 12
Bran - 11
Rickon - 5

Black And White

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

A horse trader had travelled to Winterfell, and the Stark brood were just as interested as the rest of
the smallfolk. Robb, in particular, was looking for a new horse, something to train in warfare.
Arya was curious if any of the horses would be a good match for her. Her thirteenth nameday was
three days away, and Ned had agreed to get her a pony as her present. Her mare was too gentle
for her tastes, not surprising, considering the age of the horse, and she wanted one that would keep
up with her need to race with her brothers. Sansa, Bran and Jon had no interest in buying horses,
but they were curious in general. Rickon was too little, and stayed with Catelyn. Sandor followed
along, of course. He was somewhat interested, and Ned had said he would pay for one if Sandor
found one hed like. The least I can do since you wont let me pay you higher wages, Ned
joked.
The horse trader showed several potential choices to Robb and Arya. Ned had given Sandor a bag
of coins if the children found horses they wished to buy. From the weight of it, Sandor estimated
that there was enough to buy two horses for every Stark, though he fully intended to haggle the
man down as low as possible.
Robb was inspecting a young stallion when another suddenly charged him. There was a fence
separating the black stallion from the others but Robb was still wary. Another smaller horse was in
the pen, this one was as white as the other was black, and much more calm. Sandor judged them
to both be about two or three years old.
Whats that ones problem? he asked the trader. Sandor walked over to join the two.
Wild stallion got to one of my breeding mares. Thats the result. Twins. Hes a wild one. His
sister is calm, but refuses to be separated from the other. No ones been interested in him because
he tries to bite, charge or kick anyone who comes near him. The trader sighed. Well, theres one
man interested. I dont want to sell to him, but at this rate, I might have to.
Oh? Robb asked. Who in their right mind would want this beast? Sandor silently agreed.
Anyone who wanted this horse would need a lot of patience to deal with him.
Ser Gregor Clegane, the man said, not noticing the sharp intakes of breath and looks of shock
and horror on the Starks faces. They were all well aware of the man related to Sandor by blood.
He liked the viciousness of the animal, but Im afraid he wont have the temper to break him in
properly.
I will take him! Sansa exclaimed. I will take both of them.
Little bird Sandor warned her. She looked up at him with her soulful eyes.
That monster is the worst kind of person there is, she whispered to him. I cannot let these
innocent creatures fall into his hands, not if I can help it. Even one as surly as the black one.
Sandor sighed. Youre such a soft touch, he said, but he was smiling as he shook his head.
Alright, Ill bargain for them. Im only getting you the calm one though. She started to protest,
but he continued speaking. Im getting the black one for myself.
They left the horse trader with four less horses an hour later. Arya had found a mottled colt that
suited her, and Robb found a brown horse that was perfect to train for battle.

suited her, and Robb found a brown horse that was perfect to train for battle.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Ned - 37
Catelyn - 36
Sandor - 30
Theon - 22
Robb - 17
Jon - 17
Sansa - 14
Arya - 12
Bran - 11
Rickon - 5

It Begins
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Sandor sat with Sansa and Arya as they awaited the return of Lord Stark and the small party he
had taken out to deal with a deserter of the Nights Watch.
Oh, look! I think I see them, Arya said, squinting at the horizon. Sure enough, Ned was leading
the men and boys back to Winterfell. Bran dismounted from his pony first and ran excitedly
towards them.
Arya, Sansa! Look at what we found! Bran said, pulling his cloak back and revealing a small
wolf pup hidden in his clothing.
Is that? Sansa asked, her eyes wide with wonder. A direwolf cub? Arya hopped around
with glee.
Yes, theres one for each of us, even Jon! Bran said. Robb, Jon and Theon had caught up to
them by then. Arya and Sansa were each handed a pup. Robb tousled Aryas hair before going off
to find Rickon. Arya held the smaller of the two grey pups. The one in Sansas hands was
wriggling and whining. The pup jumped from Sansas hands to the ground, causing the girl to
yelp. Arya just rolled her eyes, handed the light grey pup to Sansa and took off after the other one.
She returned with the dark grey pup quickly, having caught it easily enough.
Ned joined them after handing his horse off to a groom. Youll have to raise them well, he told
the girls. None of the servants will be allowed to take over your duties of caring for the wee
beasts. Understand?
Both Arya and Sansa nodded in excitement.
Later in the godswood, Sandor sat with Sansa, Arya and Bran in front of the heart tree. What are
you going to name her? he asked. The light grey pup was nestled in Sansas lap, enjoying some
scratches behind the ear. The pups had just finished their feeding.
I think...Lady. Do you like that name? she asked the pup. The pup yawned widely and turned
three times before settling down and sleeping. Sandor laughed.
Lady is a fine name for this girl, he assured Sansa.
Arya giggled. Thats such a proper name.
Sansa scowled at her sister, but Arya only laughed more.
Mine is called Nymeria! Arya exclaimed, lifting the dark grey pup high above her. Nymeria
growled, but it was more of a protest from being lifted so high than anything else.
What about you, Bran? Sandor asked.
The boy didnt answer. He was staring at the silver-grey pup in front of him.
Bran? asked Sansa.
Bran said in a small voice, I dont know.

Im sure you will come up with a good name, his eldest sister said with a smile.
One worthy of such a good pup, Arya chimed in.
And do not worry if it takes a while, Sansa said. You will find the right one.

Chapter End Notes

Happy St. Patrick's Day to those of you who celebrate it! I'm not Irish at all, but I
wore a little bit of green today. :)
Ages (More or less) The past few chapters and the next are happening within the
same year, just some months apart.
Ned - 37
Catelyn - 36
Sandor - 30
Theon - 22
Robb - 17
Jon - 17
Sansa - 14
Arya - 12
Bran - 11
Rickon - 5

Jonquil And Stranger

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Sansas white horse needed little training, and even took to Lady when the pup was introduced.
She had decided on naming her Jonquil. Sandor laughed at that. She would forever be dreaming
of her songs.
As long as you dont expect me to name mine Florian, he joked. Sansa blushed.
Of course not. You always said Florian was not someone to emulate, she said in mock
haughtiness. You are not one for hypocrisy either, so no, I did not expect that. She couldnt
keep a straight face any longer and broke out into a grin. What are you naming yours? You never
said.
Sandor stared at the beast as he brushed out the mane and the black coat. Stranger.
Sansas eyes went wide. That...is blasphemy, and yet...it fits him well. Sandor nodded. The
black horse snorted and stamped his feet in impatience, though Sandor knew the stallion was
enjoying the brushing. The grooms refused to go near him as he was likely to bite and kick
anyone other than his new master. It had taken more than a month, and then even longer to train
him, but he and the horse had come to an understanding. The only other person Stranger would
allow near him was Sansa, since Jonquil had bonded with her, and Sandor had made it clear that
she was not to be harmed. Lady and the other direwolves was accepted by Stranger as well,
though he suspected it was Jonquils influence on that one. Sandor was glad his little bird had
such a soft heart. He wouldnt have found his warhorse otherwise.
They walked through Winterfell with the horses. Sandor noticed Catelyn hurrying along, a
missive in her hand. She looked concerned, though she did stop briefly to chide Bran on his wall
climbing before continuing on towards the godswood. Must be important news.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less) The past few chapters and this one are happening within the
same year, just some months apart.
Ned - 37
Catelyn - 36
Sandor - 30
Theon - 22
Robb - 17
Jon - 17
Sansa - 14 3/4
Arya - 12
Bran - 11
Rickon - 5

An Offer of Royal Proportions

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Sansa stood at the window of the new practice room, her hands clasped together tightly. The old
one had been repurposed by Catelyn for the royal visit. She still didnt know of the girls defense
lessons, and arguing with her over the use of the room would have brought it to light. Lady lay at
Sandors feet.
At fifteen years old, she was no longer a child, she spoke and held herself like the lady he had first
seen all those years ago, though she was clothed in her training gear right now. They were waiting
for Arya, who was in the yard below, chasing Bran and Tommen. The twins and Theon were
looking on and laughing. The golden prince was off to the side, sneering at the merriment with his
sworn shield, Ser Robert Brax, second son of Lannister bannermen House Brax. The king and
queen had arrived a week ago, with the royal heirs, the queens two brothers and a myriad of
followers in tow. Queen Cersei was beautiful, but she had a coldness to her that made the North
seem balmy. A great feast had been held, but the childrens mood was dampened by the fact that
Jon was not allowed to sit with them. Catelyn had apologized profusely to Jon, but he had said he
didnt mind sitting elsewhere to avoid offending the royal family.
Did you hear? Sansa asked softly. Did you hear what the king asked my father?
The king wants to betroth you to his son, Prince Joffrey, Sandor replied. Join the houses as he
and Lyanna were supposed to.
I do not wish to marry Joffrey. He has lips like worms and beady eyes. Jeyne thinks he is
handsome, but he is not very princely. Not like the stories. The things he says are just awful.
Sansa often spoke freely in his presence. Her mother chastised her about it, but Sandor didnt
think it hurt to let her.
What does your father say?
He does not want to either. Mother agrees with him, but neither know how to tell the king.
Sansa turned from the window. I suppose they could just tell him that they are not ready to part
with me just yet. I do not think the king would like it if they told him I do not find the prince
agreeable. He has little love for his own son, but that would be beside the point.
That might work, Sandor rasped. He had a bad feeling about that prince, and was grateful Sansa
wasnt enamored by his good looks.
It is too bad I am not already betrothed, then this whole ordeal would be moot. She looked sad
as she continued to stare out the window. He shifted uncomfortably, remembering her declaration
as a three year old. When did he start to notice her as a woman instead of a girl? He couldnt be
sure. She was tall now, taller than her mother, nearly as tall as her father and her brothers Robb
and Jon. Sandor sometimes forgot she was only fifteen, she seemed older. In addition, Sansa was
growing more and more beautiful each year, and it was getting harder and harder to remember
why he had to keep his distance from his best friend, especially during the defense lessons when
her soft body pressed up against his hard one.

Chapter End Notes

I did research to decide who Joffrey's new sworn shield would be! Robert Brax is the
most likely, I believe. House Brax is one of the more powerful houses sworn to the
Lannisters, and as a second son, Robert Brax would have the freedom to accept the
position of sworn shield to the prince.
Ages (More or less)
Ned - 38
Catelyn - 37
Sandor - 31
Theon - 23
Robb - 18
Jon - 18
Sansa - 15
Arya - 13
Bran - 12
Rickon - 6

Broken Tower
Chapter Notes

Extra update today.

See the end of the chapter for more notes

Brans wolfs howls were what brought the other wolves running, and with them, their Stark
counterparts. Even baby Rickon was there, clinging to Catelyns skirts as she cried hysterically.
Arya and Jon clutched each others hand, twin faces of silent rage. Theons hand was on Robbs
shoulder, Robbs fists kept clenching and unclenching as he watched Maester Luwin look over
Bran. Sansa clung to Sandor as Ned, just returning from the hunt with the king, carefully picked
Bran up and took him to his room, Maester Luwin helped Catelyn. Brans wolf trailed after them.
Robb, Theon, Jon, Arya and Rickon followed slowly, leaving Sansa with Sandor.
He didnt slip, she whispered.
Little bird?
Bran, she said in ragged breaths, I heard them say he slipped. My brother was more surefooted
climbing than I am on the dance floor. He did not slip.
**********
Sandor stood at the door of Brans room with Jon. Catelyn was inside, sitting next to Brans bed,
making another of those wreaths. She looked like she had been awake for the past three days. He
knew she had had very little sleep, as Sansa would come sit with her mother and bring her food,
though Catelyn didnt eat much.
Mother Jon said softly. She looked up at him with empty eyes.
My sweet boy, she murmured. She set aside her wreath and ran to Jon. He held her as she cried.
Jon had become her favorite son in the years since Ned had told her his secret. In turn, Jon had
adored Catelyn and emulated her proper (and somber, in Sandors opinion) ways.
Mother, I came to say goodbye to Bran, and to you. Uncle Benjen cannot afford to wait another
day, he said softly.
Must you go? she sobbed. I am already losing Sansa and Arya. Bran is...Maester Luwin
doesnt know if hell wake up
Shh...Mother, it is best if I go to the Nights Watch. If you need me, youll know where to find
me. Come on, Brans going to be cross with you if he finds out youve been neglecting your
health. Eat something, sleep for a bit. If anything happens, someone will come find you. Well
stay with Bran until Maester Luwin can come sit with him for a bit. Wont we, Sandor?
Of course, he said.
Jon gently guided Catelyn to the door. One of the servants was there to take her to the kitchens for
a late meal.

Do you think shell be alright? Jon asked him once Catelyn had left.
I hope so. For everyones sake. Sandor waited by the door as Jon approached the bed. Maester
Luwin joined him as Jon spoke to Bran.
I wish I could be here when you wake up. Im heading north, to the Wall, with Uncle Benjen. Ill
be taking the black. He knelt beside the bed, closer to Bran. Ill be waiting for you to visit. You
will wake up, Bran, and I will show you around Castle Black, and we will stand at the top of the
Wall together. Maybe even go out walking beyond the Wall, if youre not afraid, but dont tell
Mother or shell have both our heads. A soft chuckle and Jon stood up. He leaned down and
kissed Bran on the forehead. Stay safe, Bran.
Ill see you in the yard, Jon said to Sandor and left the room.
Sandor walked up to the side of Brans bed. His still unnamed wolf was next to him, having snuck
in when Catelyn left. How long had it been since the pups were found? It felt like the Stark
children had always had them, but it had been less than half a year. The boy before him looked
even smaller than usual. Sandor hadnt been particularly close to Bran, but he knew him well
enough and held the boy in high regard.
Came to say goodbye, Bran. Sansa and Arya are departing with your lord father to the capital, so
of course Ill be going as well. I know your sisters have already been by. Would have come with
them, but there was some trouble with some of the Lannister men that had to be sorted. He fell
silent for a few moments. Jon got sick when he was younger than you once. I sat with him as
often as I could. Told him stories that your uncle Brandon once told me when I was stuck in bed.
Would have done the same for you, but your mother needed peace for her wreath. Besides, at the
time, neither I nor Jon had anyone else to sit with us. You are fortunate that your mother and sister
were around, he said sadly. He looked over at Maester Luwin, who was giving instructions to a
servant and not paying attention to Sandor. Bran, you have to fight. Wherever you are in the
skull of yours, you have to fight your way back. Your brothers and sisters are waiting for you.
Your pup is waiting for you. He still needs a name, after all. Sandor brushed the hair from Brans
brow. Youre a Stark. Youre strong. I expect to find you awake when we return to Winterfell.

Chapter End Notes

Part of me wanted Bran to not fall, but at the same time, if he didn't fall, would he still
awaken to his greensight? Would any of them?
Ages (More or less)
Ned - 38
Catelyn - 37
Sandor - 31
Theon - 23
Robb - 18
Jon - 18
Sansa - 15
Arya - 13
Bran - 12
Rickon - 6

Encounter On The Trident

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Sansa shied away from the welcome party that met the royal one on the road to Kings Landing.
The kings justice scared me, she admitted to Sandor later when they were taking a walk by
the Trident. Ser Barristan and Lord Renly were kind, but Ser Ilynhe frightens me. Lady didnt
like him much either.
He is a frightful one. Do you hear something? he asked.
Yes...sounds like Arya. Probably practicing swordplay with that butchers boy again. Honestly,
Father should just give in and let her learn. I heard Lord Selwyn of Tarth allowed his daughter to
learn how to fight. Of course, there are the Mormonts as well. Beautiful and deadly warriors.
Father could have fostered her with them. She sighed. I wish I could be more aggressive like
Arya sometimes. Though I also wish she would learn to control her temper better. Shes going to
get into trouble with the wrong people one of these days.
Youre just fine the way you are, little bird. I do agree about the wolf girls temper though.
Aryas screams of anger reached their ears. Sansa was off like a flash, Sandor closely behind her.
They found the prince drawing his sword on Arya, who was standing in front of the butchers
boy, defending him as he lay sprawled on the ground.
What is going on here? demanded Sansa. They all turned in surprise.
I was looking for you, my lady, when I came across these two. The peasant was attacking your
sister, lovely Sansa, the prince said quickly. I was about to defend her.
LIAR! screamed Arya. We were only playing! Were practicing swords. Nymeria was
standing by her side, her hackles raised and her teeth exposed in a growl.
Prince Joffrey, I think it be best if you went back to camp, Sandor said in a purposely lowered
growl. The prince shrank back a few steps, but looked to Sansa.
My lady, would you like for me to escort you back? I would be most honored, the prince said
sweetly. Sandor narrowed his eyes at him. Ned had accepted the role of Hand, with the condition
that Sansa be allowed to get to know the prince before any betrothal was made. Moments like this
were just the sort for Sansa to see the boys true nature, and it was one that Sandor did not like.
Thank you, my lord, but I must stay to see to my sisters chastisement. We will follow shortly,
Sansa said just as sweetly, ignoring Aryas indignant cries. The prince frowned, but left without
much protest.
Why do I have to be punished? Arya whined. He was the one that nosed in on our practice,
and then started making fun of Mycah for wanting to be a knight!
Arya, hold out your hand, Sansa said. Arya whined a bit more, but after a staredown between
the two sisters, she did as she was told. Sansa lightly tapped Aryas hand seven times. There, if
anyone asks, I hit you seven times for your penance. Shall we go back to camp? I hear the queen
sent orders to the baker at Castle Derry to bring an array of sweets, including lemon cakes! Arya
rolled her eyes at her sisters gleefulness, but Sandor only chuckled as he helped the butchers boy
to his feet.

Chapter End Notes

He lives!!!!!
Ages (More or less)
Ned - 38
Catelyn - 37
Sandor - 31
Theon - 23
Robb - 18
Jon - 18
Sansa - 15
Arya - 13
Bran - 12
Rickon - 6

Let's Explore the Capital!

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

So this is Kings Landing? she asked, looking out of the tower window. Lady and Nymeria
were sniffing the new room, oblivious to the humans. Its lovely, but it smells weird. A bad
weird. Oh, the fashions are so interesting, and the people of the court! Her eyes were sparkling
and he smiled at that. Its like a parade every day! Oh, but its so warm compared to home. I will
have to start making new lighter gowns for myself and Arya. Well...tunics for her, and for you as
well, of course. Ill speak to Father about getting appropriate fabrics for this climate. Have you
ever been here before, Sandor?
Once, little bird. During the war, when your father and Robert claimed the Iron Throne.
Do you think Bran has woken up yet? The boy had been on her mind a lot recently. She had
not spoken much of her brother on the way south, but he knew she had been thinking of him the
entire time. She still didnt believe he just fell, and had become paranoid that someone was out to
get all of them. She worried over the family left at Winterfell, and even for Jon who was headed to
the Wall. You wont be far away, right? Father promised me you would have a room nearby.
She looked up at him with those big soulful eyes.
He placed an armored hand on each of her shoulders. Im one floor beneath you. Anyone who
tries to get to you, will have to go through me first, alright? Dont worry, little bird, Ill keep you
safe.
Sansa! Stop kissing Sandor and lets go! Weve got a castle to explore! Arya shouted from the
doorway. Sansa scowled at her younger sister as Arya ran off with their wolves, and didnt notice
how red Sandor got.

Chapter End Notes

Direwolves in the capital. What could go wron-- *CRASH* Oh, Arya... It wasn't the
direwolves we need to be wary of, was it? Lol
Ages (More or less)
Ned - 38
Catelyn - 37
Sandor - 31
Theon - 23
Robb - 18
Jon - 18
Sansa - 15
Arya - 13
Bran - 12
Rickon - 6

Keeping Busy
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Where are you off to, wolf girl? Sandor growled, catching Arya by the scruff of her shirt.
Mycah promised to show me some of the underground tunnels and then were going to go see a
friend of his on the Street of Steel, she said. Let me go! Im going to be late!
You and that butchers boy had best stay out of trouble. If Sansa and I hadnt been around when
the prince found you two on the Trident, it could have gotten a whole lot uglier, he reminded her.
She rolled her eyes at him and nodded in pretended meekness. Im not joking, girl, you see
Prince Joffrey, you walk in the other direction.
Ugh, fine, I promise.
Are you taking Nymeria with you? Shes going to stick out like a green boy in a brothel.
Arya rolled her eyes. Noooo. Do I look like an idiot? She and Lady are in the godswood with
Sansa. They like it there. The queen , she said with slight disgust, prefers for them to stay there,
too.
Sansa went to the godswood?
Arya nodded. She goes there daily to pray, usually in the mornings. Didnt you know? Oh, right,
youre usually doing your morning training at that time. Well, that explains why she takes Lady,
though why Nymeria wants to go is beyond me. May I go now? She looked at him with extreme
irritation. I really am going to be late at this point.
She was off and running as soon as Sandor let go of her.
**********
Im sorry, Sandor, she said meekly. He had found his little bird right where Arya said she would
be, praying in front of the heart tree. He much preferred weirwood, but they didnt grow this far
south. I didnt want to interrupt your training time, and this place is just so peaceful, so unlike the
rest of the city. Lady and Nymeria were sunning themselves not far off.
I suppose you were safe enough, with fucking dire wolves at your side, but I dont like the idea
of you coming here alone. He was more bothered by the fact that she hadnt told him at all. She
looked very apologetic though and he would guess that it hadnt even occurred to her that he
might be upset about it. Look, I know you went alone to the godswood at home nearly daily, but
little bird, he grasped her hands in his, this isnt home, and the people here are dangerous. More
dangerous because they wont come at you with weapons, they will attack you with words, and if
youre not careful, you will fall into ruin because of it. Youve seen how sharp a tongue the queen
has, how she speaks in veiled words. Sansa nodded. A day in the wheelhouse had brought that
to light. Sansa had returned to his side to ride Jonquil the rest of the way down the Kingsroad with
great relief, stating that no lemoncake was worth that womans company. If you insist on coming
here, then I or you father should come with you, even if you have Lady by your side. Lady, her
eyes closed, rolled over on her back and kicked her legs a little. Sandor shook his head.
Especially if you have only Lady at your side. Shes soft as a kitten!
Sansa giggled. She is not! Shes just relaxed because its just us and Nym. Sandor didnt quite

believe her, but didnt argue, eyeing the light grey wolf with amusement as her tongue lolled out.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Ned - 38
Catelyn - 37
Sandor - 31
Theon - 23
Robb - 18
Jon - 18
Sansa - 15
Arya - 13
Bran - 12
Rickon - 6

Secret Visit
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Sansa fell back against the mat, huffing from the exercise. They had just completed the days
defense lesson. Arya was at a dancing lesson, of all things, and so it was just him and Sansa for
today. Sandor sat on the mat next to her and averted his eyes, trying not to think about other things
that would make her pant and glow like that. He attempted to distract himself, as well as hide the
evidence of his interest in her. King Robert in a dress. King Robert in a dress.
Sandor, she said breathily and he had to bite back a groan. King Robert in a fucking low cut
pink and frilly dress.
Yes?
Sansa rose to her feet and brushed off her clothing. I was thinking of going to the market
tomorrow. I finished the new garments I had planned already. The tournament is fast approaching
and you need a new doublet, Arya needs a new dress, and I need something to do. Father already
gave me permission she trailed off. I know its your day off, but I was wondering--
Id be happy to take you to the market, little bird, he said with a chuckle. You can take a look
around and give me some ideas for your nameday gift as well. If Jeyne and Arya wish to come as
well, thats fine.
She threw her arms around his neck from behind and kissed his cheek. Thank you, Sandor.
King Robert in a pink and frilly dress acting like fucking Jonquil AND Florian.
**********
Sandor and Jory joined Ned at one of the brothels Petyr Baelish owned. He was surprised to see
Catelyn there, as well as Ser Rodrick. After a somewhat long and drawn out goodbye, Ned
headed back to the Keep, Jory and Sandor flanking him on either side.
We cannot tell the girls of this. Jory, Ill need you to keep an eye on Arya. Sandor, you have
Sansa, as always. Find someone to guard Jeyne. Anyone who can keep up with you two in
training. Dont let them out of your sight. Tell the rest of the household to never go anywhere
alone. I'd rather be overly cautious than have to worry about our people. Ned seemed to have
aged in the past few hours.

Chapter End Notes

I pushed back the tournament by a few months from when they arrived in King's
Landing. I also specifically added that defense lesson in since more than few people
asked for it. I'd say I feel guilty for falling under peer pressure, but I like making
Sandor squirm a bit. Mwa ha ha ha! Next chapter, the Tourney of the Hand!! It will
be a bonus update because I'm so excited for it!
Ages (More or less)

Ned - 38
Catelyn - 37
Sandor - 31
Theon - 23
Robb - 18
Jon - 18
Sansa - 15
Arya - 13
Bran - 12
Rickon - 6

Tourney of the Hand

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Sandor was not inclined to acknowledge his brother, but the Tourney of the Hand found him in
close quarters with Gregor, especially since they were both competing in the jousting.
Nice little mistress you got there, pup. Wouldnt mind being her sword for a night, Gregor
laughed at his own poor jape. Sandor growled at him, but The Mountain merely sniggered and
walked on. He touched his wrist. Underneath his gauntlet was a grey ribbon, a token from his
charge. She had given it to him and wished him luck in the tourney. It calmed him down to
remember it. There was also tonights feast to look forward to, since Sansa had made him a brand
new tunic for him to wear. He had worn his old red one the previous night. It still looked good,
but the new one was even better. He was of the opinion that, if it wasnt for his scars, he looked
rather dashing in it.
Sandor saw Littlefucker in the audience, sitting a little too close to Sansa for his liking. It had not
escaped the mans notice that Sansa was the spitting image of her mother, and even more
beautiful. Thankfully, Arya was with her, though Ned had wandered off. Probably had something
to do with the king wanting to fight in the melee. Septa Mordane was there as well, but she was
speaking to Jeyne Poole on the other side of her and didnt notice. Littlefucker was whispering to
Sansa, causing her to frown, and looking over at Sandor every so often. He wondered what the rat
was telling her, but was pleasantly shocked when she slapped him across the face. Arya
smothered her laughter and Septa Mordane finally paid attention. He knew what a slap from Sansa
felt like, as he had had her practice it on him. Littlefucker would have a mark on him for at least a
few days.
After a few angry words from her, the man gave her a meek look that turned predatory when she
looked away from him. Ned returned to his seat just then, and Sansa moved to the other side of
her father, so that Littlefucker and Ned were now sitting next to each other. Neither looked happy
about it, but Ned put a protective arm around Sansa.
Sandor did well in the events he entered, pleased that Sansa was cheering for him, but scowled as
the Knight of Flowers gave her a red rose. She accepted it politely, giving it a tentative sniff. It
must have smelled nice, because a genuine smile blossomed on her lips. He made a mental note to
find an excuse to get her some flowers later. She was wearing the pendant and chain he had
bought her for her nameday though, and that pleased him.
Gregor was pitted against Ser Loras, the young knight riding a mare in heat, causing Gregors
stallion to falter, earning the poor beast a death sentence. Sandor was jumping in before he could
think, defending the pretty knight from The Mountain. He couldnt let her see Gregor kill anyone
else. Seeing the horse die was bad enough. The damn squire turned knight from yesterday was
worse. The Knight of Flowers would live, damnit.
King Robert ended the fight quickly and Gregor stomped off in a huff. Loras declared Sandor the
winner of the tourney, for which the crowd agreed unanimously.
He had no doubts in his mind when he handed Sansa the crown of flowers. Baelish glared at him.
Ned only laughed good naturedly. Arya howled with laughter and teased him for days after that.
Sansa smacked her sister every time she heard the teasings and would give Sandor a shy smile.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Ned - 39
Catelyn - 38
Sandor - 32
Theon - 24
Robb - 19
Jon - 19
Sansa - 16
Arya - 14
Bran - 13
Rickon - 7
EDIT: 4/1/2016
It was pointed out to me that Ser Hugh of the Vale wasn't mentioned in my original
posting of this chapter. I have since rectified that. It doesn't really change anything.
That is all.

Dogs, Wolves And Scars

Chapter Notes

This takes place a few days after the Tourney.

See the end of the chapter for more notes

Just leave your dogs behind and come on a walk with me, Joffrey begged. Though they hadnt
been betrothed after all, Joffrey was still pursuing Sansa. Sandor suspected the queen was behind
it. He had heard rumors from the castle servants. A marriage to tame the North for the crown. Not
likely.
They are wolves, not dogs, and Nymeria is with Arya at her dancing lesson, Sansa said with a
frown that Sandor heard more than saw.
Not that one, THAT ONE, Joffrey said, pointing at Sandor. Her back was too him, but he knew
Sansas frown was settling into a straight, hard line.
Forgive me, Prince Joffrey, I have a sudden sick feeling in my stomach. I wouldnt want you to
catch anything, so maybe another day. I think I need to lie down. She shut the door in his face.
Sandor couldnt help but grin.
Thats the second time youve gotten mad at someone, little bird.
Maybe if people in Kings Landing werent so rude, I wouldnt get mad. Can you believe him?
As if being a prince gives him permission to call you a dog, she huffed. Lady jumped off the bed
and followed Sansa as she paced. She stopped in front of the vase of fresh cut flowers and picked
one up to sniff it delicately. She smiled at it. Sandor had gone to three shops to find flowers she
would like.
But I am one, your most loyal Hound, your dog, he said with a grin.
Sansa turned and scowled at him. I dont like it when you call yourself that. Just because they say
it, doesnt make it true.
He just shrugged, and changed the subject, What about Baelish? You slapped him.
She had the decency to blush, but said hotly, I wanted to talk to you about that, but I didnt know
how to bring it up. He was taking liberties he should not have. Hes lucky I didnt take my dagger
to him. Mother wouldnt be pleased, but she would have understood once I explained it.
Pleased as he was that she had had her dagger on her, another nameday present, Sandor was
alarmed by her words and sat up at that, What liberties?
Sansas anger softened as she looked at him. She started playing with her necklace, a sure sign she
was nervous. It was rare. He...he spoke of you.
Confused, he asked, Me? What about me?
About how you got your scars. He offered to tell me the story, but before I could tell him I didnt
need to hear it from him, he told me everything he supposedly knew. Said I shouldnt repeat it or

else you might kill me. Thats when I slapped him. I dont think he knows you are my shield, or if
he did know, he must not think us to be particularly close. I think he was just trying to scare me. I
told him that if he ever utters that story to anyone else, I would tell you it was him spreading it
around. She blushed again. I hope youre not mad at me.
He gave her a tight smile. Mad? Yes. At you, no. What did he tell you about my scars?
She sighed. Her face was pained as she began, That you and your brother had received some
toys She did not stop until she reached the point where his father lied to cover it up. His body
grew colder and colder as every true detail fell from her lips. She looked up at him then, her eyes
went wide and suddenly her arms were around him and she was holding him tightly, making soft
cooing noises to him. Its ok, San-dee, Ive got you. Ive got you, she whispered. Something
wet was on his face, and he realized he was crying.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Ned - 39
Catelyn - 38
Sandor - 32
Theon - 24
Robb - 19
Jon - 19
Sansa - 16
Arya - 14
Bran - 13
Rickon - 7

Arya's Friends
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

How goes the babysitting? Sandor asked Jory. They shared a room and it was the first time in a
while that they had occupied it at the same time. He already knew Harwin was having an easy
time as Jeynes guard, since he saw the man whenever she and Sansa were in each others
presence.
Arya has been a handful, he sighed. When shes not at her dancing lessons, shes running
around with that boy, Mycah. They go down to the Street of Steel and bother one of the smiths.
Well, one of his apprentices. Seems hes a friend of Mycah. Hes patient with them. I think its
one of Roberts bastards. Lord Stark went to visit him today. I didnt get to see him, but it was the
same shop I follow Arya and Mycah to.
Think thatll be trouble? Sandor asked.
Jory shook his head. No. At least I hope not.

Chapter End Notes

Little announcement, updates are switching to daily.

Ages (More or less)
Ned - 39
Catelyn - 38
Sandor - 32
Theon - 24
Robb - 19
Jon - 19
Sansa - 16
Arya - 14
Bran - 13
Rickon - 7

A Visit From A Black Brother

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Sansa had gone to the godswood with Ned. Jeyne was with Septa Mordane and her guard,
Harwin, at the sept. Sandor was enjoying a late breakfast as Arya told him of her dancing lessons.
She was standing on one foot with her arms stretched out as she spoke. Its called Braavosi
Water Dancing. Syrio says Im well suited to it, and that Needle is as well.
Jon made a good choice in commissioning that thing for you. Sandor had admired the
craftsmanship of it, though it was not to his personal tastes. Give him a broadsword or an axe any
day.
Today, I have to chase a cat! she said excitedly.
Sandor guffawed. A cat?! Well, I can see how that would teach you to be quick. And stealthy.
The cats here arent wild, but theyre not domesticated either. Good luck with that, wolf girl.
Arya returned in the afternoon, her arms and face covered in scratches, but instead of a grand
smile on her face, she was speaking of murder plots and men in the underground. Shortly after, a
man named Yoren came by to visit Ned. A black brother, by the looks of it.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Ned - 39
Catelyn - 38
Sandor - 32
Theon - 24
Robb - 19
Jon - 19
Sansa - 16
Arya - 14
Bran - 13
Rickon - 7

Leaving King's Landing

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Jory came with the orders to pack everything. Whats going on? Sandor asked, wondering if it
had anything to do with what Arya had been telling him about earlier. Jory shook his head.
Lord Stark gave up his position as Hand. The king is furious. Get the girls and get them out of
Kings Landing. Some of the men will stay behind with us. We will catch up with you. He has
one more thing he needs to do.
Vayon Poole was arguing that there wasnt enough time, but Sandor said, What Lord Stark
orders, we will do. He wouldnt deem it necessary if he didnt think the girls were in danger, and
that includes your daughter. Vayon nodded, though he looked like he wanted to argue more.
Thankfully, he did not.
Shall I arrange for a ship? he asked.
No, Sandor said, Wagons. We can blend in with the merchants leaving the city. If we need to
take a ship, we can make a detour to Maidenpool and go from there.
Sansa and Arya were ready to go in record time. They had made a game of it, and challenged both
Jeyne and Septa Mordane. Sansa won, though Arya had the faster time, since the septa insisted on
neatness counting as a factor. Sandor put his foot down about making the girls re-do their packing
if it wasnt neat enough. Theres no time, woman! Septa Mordane turned her nose up at him and
sniffed delicately. She refused to talk to him after that, which he was fine with.
It helped that they only packed what was absolutely necessary. The rest would be sent later.
Aryas dancing instructor served as an additional guard to their party, taking Jory's place as Arya's
personal guard, as most of the household guard were staying with Ned. By the time the sun
reached its peak, they fled Kings Landing. A rider found them a few days later, a message from
the king. Eddard Stark would be staying in Kings Landing and had taken back his position as
Hand. It was up to the Stark entourage if they wished to return to the capital or continue on to
Winterfell. Neither of the girls were that interested in returning, though they missed their father.
Another rider a week later brought a message from Ned, that Gregor was no longer lord of
Cleganes Keep. He had been stripped of his titles and holdings, all of it transferred to Sandor. A
party had been sent after his brother, with orders to execute him. Sandor wasnt sure how to feel
about this. Sansa noticed his inner turmoil and sang for him. He appreciated the gesture, though it
did little to calm him. Its the thought that counts, he thought and hugged her. Syrio offered to spar
with him. That helped more, though he was still troubled.
They heard the full news at the inn on the crossroads a few weeks later. Catelyn had taken Tyrion
Lannister hostage, prompting Jaime Lannister to attack the Stark men. Damn it, Cat, why would
you do that?! They survived the attack, but Ned was severely injured. Lannister had fled the city,
and Tywin had started to gather his army. Ned was staying on as Hand to the king despite all this,
though Sandor heartily wished Ned would come to his senses and leave that place.

Chapter End Notes

Hey, yeah, so remember Sandor was training to fight against larger groups of
attackers, and the rest of the household guards joined him in training, and even Ned
took part, too? Fun fact: Winterfell guards are unofficially the best warriors in all of
Westeros, because of this constant training Sandor puts himself and them through. :D
Ages (More or less)
Ned - 39
Catelyn - 38
Sandor - 32
Theon - 24
Robb - 19
Jon - 19
Sansa - 16
Arya - 14
Bran - 13
Rickon - 7

Arriving Back At Winterfell

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

They returned to Winterfell to find that Catelyn was still gone and Robb had left with Theon and
some of the Stark bannermen a few weeks prior, but Bran had woken up, much to Sansas delight,
even when she heard that his legs were essentially useless now. She embraced him tightly until he
complained of not being able to breathe.
He didnt remember anything about his fall, but spoke well of Tyrion Lannister. Apparently, on
his way back from the Wall and before Catelyn had taken him captive, Tyrion had brought
designs for a new saddle for Bran, one that would allow him to ride again, as well as hope that he
could still be a warrior. Something about the Dothraki. He was surprised to see a wildling woman
had become Brans constant companion. Bran spoke highly of her, and Sandor wondered if the
boy hadnt become enamored with the outspoken woman. She and Hodor were constant
companions, as they both had a duty to Bran.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Ned - 39
Catelyn - 38
Sandor - 32
Theon - 24
Robb - 19
Jon - 19
Sansa - 16
Arya - 14
Bran - 13
Rickon - 7

News From Kings Landing

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Tywin Lannister was at war with the crown. Gregor still lived and was committing atrocities in
this war. Tyrion Lannister had been released by Catelyn. Jaime Lannister, on the other hand, was
still wanted for attacking the Starks, but the queen had been caught bedding her own cousin and
had since been locked up. The king had surely called for her head, but it had yet to be done.
Sandor could only assume Ned had somehow talked him out of it. The children were put under
house arrest as well, rumors of the queens infidelity had gone as far as to make it seem that the
crown prince and his siblings may not be Roberts afterall. They were sent to Casterly Rock a
month later and a declaration was sent out to all seven kingdoms, Joffrey, Myrcella and Tommen
Waters were no longer the heirs to the crown, by the admission of the former queen.
Jory sent him letters, telling him of the events in the capital. I heard it myself, she said it taking
great joy from the fact that she spited the king in such a way to deny him trueborn heirs. I dont
think she realized what she had done until it was too late.
Since Robb had left Winterfell in the hands of Bran and Maester Luwin, taking many bannermen
with him to defend their lands against Tywins troops, it was left to Bran to be the Stark seated in
Winterfell. Sansa would sit with Bran and the maester as well, when they listened to petitions. She
offered her advice to Bran, who listened to her views. She was not the most worldly person, but
she was good and kind, and gave her honest opinion after considering all sides to the argument.
Sandor stood to the side of the dais, her ever ready protector.
Many second and third sons of bannermen came to show their support before heading out to join
Robb, though only two stayed for a longer duration. Meera and Jojen Reed became fast friends
with the Starks. Sandor noted that it was good to see Sansa with a friend like Meera, a fierce and
independent female, though Jeyne didnt like Meera very much. Arya loved having another
female warrior around. Meera taught Arya to use a spear, though Osha had been teaching Arya to
fight as well, and saw Meera as competition until the two went head to head under the watchful
eye of Ser Rodrick. Somewhere during the fighting, they had become friends of sorts. In addition
to Meera and Osha, Syrio continued the dancing lessons. The wolf girl was getting good. He was
slightly surprised she didnt run off to join Robbs army.
If I left, who would defend Winterfell, you? she said with a smirk when he brought it up.
After her dealings with the Imp, and his trial, a mummers farce if he ever heard one, Lady
Catelyn stayed in the field with Robb. Sandor wasnt unhappy that she wasnt in Winterfell. They
had made their peace, but Catelyn still had a tendency of smothering her elder daughter. He
suspected it was because of the hard labor she had gone through to have Sansa, and that she was
slightly jealous that her daughter had bonded so early to the scarred ward of the Starks. Besides
that, Sansa was blossoming into a true leader without her mother standing over her and
questioning her every move.
In a completely unexpected turn of events, Tyrion Lannister had returned to Kings Landing and
was helping Ned navigate the politics of the capital. Jory wrote:
Its very odd to see the two of them together. The little lord first offered as a way to show that
there were no hard feelings about his capture by Lady Catelyn and the imprisonment of his sister.
It is well known that there is little love lost between the two siblings. They have a unique dynamic
and work well together. Nearly as well as he and the King work on the battlefield. It gets even

better when the spider joins the group. Theyve even got the king going to more council meetings
and being more active in his rule of the realm. I think hes even lost a bit of weight, though hes
still quite rotund. Ive never heard Lord Stark laugh so much in his life as he has since Lord
Tyrion came back. Hes still stern and stoic, but he smiles more. Theyre trying to negotiate with
Lord Tywin, but it doesnt seem to be working so far. Considering Lord Tyrion was let go and
Lord Tywin is still at war, it seems he is only fighting for his daughter, though she has been
proven to be guilty of crimes against the crown. Lord Tyrion suspects that his father isn't even
fighting for the now former queen, but is instead only fighting for himself and making a grab for
the crown in the guise of love for his children. Petyr Baelish has been sent to speak with him,
though Lord Stark and Lord Tyrion were both against the idea.
There is a deal with the Tyrells on the table. They are offering their only daughter as a new bride
for Robert. The girl is around Robbs age, and is supposedly more beautiful than the former
queen. Smart, too, by the sounds of it. Robert has agreed to the betrothal and the wedding will
take place once the girl arrives from Highgarden. Look for the formal announcement soon,
brother. If she cant give him a son, he and the small council are considering legitimizing his
baseborn sons. Odd thing though, Ive been around to check on some of them, and several have
disappeared. The smiths apprentice is one of them.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Ned - 39
Catelyn - 38
Sandor - 32
Theon - 24
Robb - 19
Jon - 19
Sansa - 16
Arya - 14
Bran - 13
Rickon - 7

Greendreams
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

I have dreams, Bran told him one morning. Sansa was bringing her brother some food to eat
from the table in the next room while they listened to petitioners. Hodor and Osha went with her
to help.
Everyone dreams, Bran.
The boy shook his head. These dreams are too real. They predict the future sometimes. Other
times, its like Im in Summer, running with him, as him. Jojen says I have greensight. That Im a
warg as well.
Sandor thought about that. He had heard rumors that the Stark bloodline still had the old magic in
it. Supposedly, your family has had both.
Maester Luwin says those are just stories.
Maester Luwin doesnt have the evidence to prove it either way, Sandor pointed out. Bran
grinned at that.
I sometimes see a great black dog, running alongside a flying red bird. The dog is trying to
protect the bird from predators, but the bird is also trying to protect the dog from unseen thorns in
the foliage. Bran looked thoughtfully at Sandor.
What do you think thats about? he asked the boy.
Bran shrugged. No idea, but I hope they make it through the forest safely. The ocean is on the
other side, and its dangerous. Itll swallow them up if theyre not careful. That reminds me, I had
this other dream about the ocean coming to Winterfell.

Chapter End Notes

Yeah....yeah... *shuffles off sadly*

Ages (More or less)
Ned - 39
Catelyn - 38
Sandor - 32
Theon - 24
Robb - 19
Jon - 19
Sansa - 16
Arya - 14
Bran - 13
Rickon - 7

The Ocean At Winterfell

Chapter Notes

The following takes place several months after the previous chapter.

See the end of the chapter for more notes

He had been patrolling in the early morning hours when the first grappling hook appeared on the
wall. He sent out a silent signal, warning the other soldiers. They were reduced even more due to
the fact that Ser Rodrick had taken men to defend Torrhens Square, but they had been preparing
for a surprise attack. The attack on Torrhens Square had seemed fishy to Sandor and to Ser
Rodrick, and Sandor had started running drills even as Ser Rodrick marched off with his small
squadron.
Some of the intruders slipped by them, but just as many fell to their swords.
Dawn had broken and the cries from the main square drew his attention. Theon was there, holding
Sansa at daggerpoint, still in her bedclothes, though she was at least wearing a warm cloak over
that with boots protecting her feet from the recent snow. Bran and Rickon were sitting to the side,
holding each other's hands. The direwolves were nowhere to be seen. He could only imagine
what Theon had done to them. The last he had heard, Theon had been sent to treaty with his father
for Robb while Catelyn traveled to treat with Renly Baratheon, yet now here he was, with men
that looked strong and weather beaten. Ironborn.
He grit his teeth, wanting to smash in Theons smug smile. He remembered Brans dream. The
ocean is coming to Winterfell.
He noticed a flash of fur behind Theon and the remaining Ironborn. Lady was silently stalking
Theon. Guess he didnt get to the wolves after all.
Let her go, Theon. This isnt you, he said.
Clegane. Put your sword down, and she wont be hurt. Shell be well cared for as my bride,
Theon said with a cocky smirk. It grieves me that we meet as foes.
It grieves me that you have less honor than a back alley whore, but there we are. You grew up
here. Robb, Sansa, all of the Starks treated you like family. Like a brother, Sandor snarled. How
can you throw that away?!
I never belonged here. I wasnt supposed to be here! Treated me like a brother?? My brothers are
dead . They died fighting men like you, Stark men, Theon spat out.
Three sons of Greyjoy. Two are gone. They died in a war your father started. You are the only
one left. If Ned could see you right now--
Well, good thing hes not here then, Theon sneered. Sansa stomped on his foot, her anger at
Theons betrayal fueling her strength. He howled in pain and Theons grip on Sansa loosened.
She took the opportunity to slam her elbow into his head and then ducked out of the way to the
safety of Sandor. Lady launched herself at Theons back, growling, snarling and pulling a
shrieking Theon to the ground. The other Ironborn reacted, but Syrio, Arya and other soldiers

were there to fight them. Nymeria, Shaggy and Summer were with them. They had surrounded
the enemy, using Sandors distraction to their advantage. Sandor had to pull Lady off of the traitor,
though she took a chunk of Theons arm with her. It was the first time Sandor had seen her
looking so fierce. The blood on her muzzle dripped as she reverted back to soft kitten mode when
she pushed Sansa away from the fighting. Nymeria, Summer and Shaggy were guarding the boys,
allowing Osha and Hodor to collect them and get them to safety.
Much later on, Sansa marvelled over Sandors skill as she cleaned the blood from Lady, speaking
highly of how he was able to separate her from Theon by distracting him and allowing her to use
some of her lessons. It was a scenario they had practiced, working a countdown into any
conversation that happened, using the immediate distraction to make an escape. He had not
expected Lady to be paying any attention to what they had practiced, though it worked out much
better than he could have expected. He would have to try incorporating some training for Lady
into future lessons.
Theon did not leave Winterfell, nor did any of the Ironborn he brought with him. Of the ones still
alive, Syrio, Arya and Sandor made quick work of the biggest ones, the other men taking care of
the rest of them. Theon was left alive, and thrown into the dungeon for his treachery after being
treated by Maester Luwin. You think you were a prisoner before? Sandor snarled. Tell me
how you feel in a month.

Chapter End Notes

So.... I may have leaned on Ser Rodrick's dialogue from the show a wee bit. :P
Ages (More or less)
Ned - 40
Catelyn - 39
Sandor - 33
Theon - 25
Robb - 20
Jon - 20
Sansa - 17
Arya - 15
Bran - 14
Rickon - 8

A Broken Promise & Fathers

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Robb had married, but he took the wrong woman. His promise to Walder Frey was broken, the
mans loyalty bought for joining the two houses, his allegiance to the crown tenuous at best.
Sandor read the missive once more and shook his head. He could have told Robb this was folly.
He looked over at Sansa, who was deep in conversation with Bran, while Arya and Rickon
looked on, bored out of their minds. He didnt fault the young man. He knew he would give
anything to be able to have his little bird as his wife and for her to love him in return. Love is a
dangerous thing.
More news from the capital. The wedding of King Robert Baratheon and Lady Margaery Tyrell
was announced. Ned sent a note along with the formal invitations. Due to the war going on, it
would be a brief affair. Ned would represent Winterfell and House Stark, none of the family
needed to journey south unless they wished to do so.
**********
When is Father coming home? Rickon asked him. Sandor was showing him the proper way to
hold a sword, and looked down at the young boy.
It could be a while. Your father is Hand of the King and thats a full time job, considering how
King Robert is, he replied. Rickon swung the sword as Sandor showed him.
But why? Why did he have to become Hand? Why couldnt he stay here, at home? I miss him.
Youre nice and all, Sandor, but youre not Father. Rickon gave him a sullen look.
He patted the boys head. I know. If my father was half as good as yours, I would miss him,
too.
You dont miss your father? The boy was genuinely curious.
Sandor shook his head. Not really. He was a louse and a coward, mean and angry. He would
often strike me and my brother just because he could. If your uncle and grandfather hadnt taken
me in, I dont know what would have happened to me.
Rickon thought about it. I dont like your father.
Sandor barked a laugh. Few did, pup. Few did. Your father, on the other hand, is respected by
the houses and smallfolk of the North. They would rally behind him if he called his banners. Hes
doing the best he can, and hopefully will come back soon, but until then, keep practicing. Youll
be wanting to show him how good of a warrior you are when he gets back, wont you?
Rickon grinned and nodded before resuming practice.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Ned - 40
Catelyn - 39
Sandor - 33
Theon - 25
Robb - 20
Jon - 20
Sansa - 17
Arya - 15
Bran - 14
Rickon - 8

A Family Discussion & A New Occupant

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Bran called a family meeting a week after the news of Robbs marriage had arrived. Sandor stood
with Maester Luwin and Septa Mordane, listening to the discussion.
Mother sent us a more detailed letter. It seems that our brothers alliance with the Freys and then
his marriage to a Westerling has more ramifications than we realized, Bran said. The initial
report sent to him of Theons betrayal was grossly inaccurate, and said that we had all been
slaughtered and burned.
What?! Rickon was outraged. Who would do such a thing?
The message was passed verbally for the most part, before it go to Robb and Mother. You know
how that sort of thing goes. In his sorrow, he turned to Jeyne Westerling and sought... comfort
...from her. After that, he married her to preserve her and his honor. I, of course, sent a written and
detailed report, but it didnt get there until well after. Bran sighed heavily. Sandor didnt envy the
little lordling. It was a heavy burden for anyone to bear, let alone a fourteen year old boy.
Bran continued, He had also attempted to agree to Lord Walders request of Sansa and Aryas
hands to two of Lord Walders sons. Sandors heart squeezed painfully at the thought of his little
bird being sent to the Twins to become a Frey. Neither she nor Arya would fare well in that
household.
He can not do that! Sansa shot to her feet and exclaimed. Father is still head of our house and
Hand of the King. He is the only one who can decide something like that. Arya was grinding her
teeth, fuming and in complete agreement.
Bran gave her a gentle smile. Yes, you are correct. Mother reminded Robb of that during
negotiations. Besides, its not like Robb is a king, nor are any of us royalty, so Lord Walder gave
that up fairly quickly. Never fear, Mother didnt let him sell you off. Sansa was still upset, but sat
back down, quietly mumbling an apology for her outburst. Its fine, Sansa, completely
understandable. Now, he did agree to some other things, like taking on a squire and two of the
Frey boys were to be sent to Winterfell. With the recent attack, however, Mother is fearful of
something happening to them, and has arranged for them to be sent to Kings Landing instead, to
foster with the court. Lord Walder seems to be even more thrilled by this, though he speaks of the
insult that his grandsons cannot stay at Winterfell.
Freys in the capital, Arya scoffed, thatll end well. Ill put a silver stag on them embarrassing
themselves before theyve been there a month.
Ive got two months, Rickon said.
Make mine three then, Bran said, an amused grin on his face.
Ill give them the benefit of a doubt, Sansa said, six months. They all looked over at the other
adults in the room.
Four months, Maester Luwin said, trying not to smile and failing.
I will not participate nor condone such rude behavior, Septa Mordane said with a disgusted
sniffle. I say they will not embarrass themselves at all.

So...you are participating then? Sandor asked with a smirk. Septa Mordane went a little red
faced, but she looked away defiantly. Sandor laughed, Guess Ill take five months then.
Well, with that settled, Bran said, theres a few more things. The Frey men who joined him
when the deal was struck have since abandoned him. Robb will need to make reparations for
breaking his promise to marry a Frey girl, however. How he will do that is undecided at this time.
They have fallen back to Riverrun. Our grandfather is not doing well. Mother would like for us to
join her, but considering the war going on, feels it is best if we remain here at Winterfell. She feels
it wont be long before he passes on, and will return after that with our new goodsister. Robb will
be staying in the Riverlands with the Northern army to help keep the Lannister forces at bay.
Mother, and the group she will be accompanied by, will need to take the long way, since they will
probably not be able to cross at the Twins. Oh, and apparently, she is very annoyed at her brother,
because he chased the lions down the wrong path, whatever that means. Shell send word again,
if she can, before leaving Riverrun.
**********
A new occupant to Winterfell came through the gates one day. A young man that bore a striking
resemblance to King Robert. He said his name was Gendry Waters, and that he was a smith.
Sandor brought him before Bran and Sansa as they held court.
You seek shelter here? Bran asked.
Yes, milord. Yoren of the Nights Watch told me to come here. Im skilled, I was an apprentice
to one of the best smiths in all Kings Landing. Gendry spoke with honest eyes.
Why did he tell you to come here? Sansa asked, unable to contain her curiosity.
He said he was told to, but he couldnt say who told him. Yoren gave a me horse, some supplies
and told me to ride for Winterfell once we got close enough. He still had some other cities to visit
before he comes through here. He said you were friendly to the Black Brothers, that you might
help me.
Would you want to continue being a smith? Bran asked.
Gendry nodded, Its the only thing I know, the only thing Im good at. My master told me that
Lord Stark told him if I ever wanted to exchange my hammer for a sword, he would be willing to
take me in. Im not quite ready to make that exchange, but Im happy to swing my hammer for the
Starks.
Bran looked at him thoughtfully, Very well, speak to Mikkon. He is our castle smith. He hasnt
had an apprentice in a while, but he would appreciate the help, Im sure. Sandor, please escort
him.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Ned - 40
Catelyn - 39
Sandor - 33
Theon - 25

Robb - 20
Jon - 20
Sansa - 17
Arya - 15
Bran - 14
Rickon - 8

Battle of the Blackwater Bay

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Brother,
Greetings from Kings Landing. Unfortunately, I have grim tidings. Tywin's army is approaching
the capital. Our scouts tell us he abandoned the field after a skirmish with Lady Catelyns brother.
He had since turned his attention to gaining the crown the bloody way. His own army is
approaching by land, and he has hired a company of sellswords to attack by sea. Lord Stannis
has sent a small company of pirates to help defend the Bay, while he stays and fights Lannister
men in the countryside. Gregor is among these men. Tywin has also brought in sellswords to fight
his battle with them. I know the Lannisters are rich beyond measure, but surely the cost of this
war is even beyond him!
Lord Stanniss right-hand man, Davos Seaworth, is leading the pirates. The entire city is
preparing for the fight. Thankfully, Lord Stark and Lord Tyrion have been preparing for just such
a situation. We are prepared for a siege, but this may be the last letter I will be able to send for a
while. Say hello to the children for me, and tell Arya I thank her for all the training she put me
through when I was her guard here. It has been most helpful.
Jory
**********
News of the Battle of the Blackwater brought no joy to Winterfell. Tywin had launched an all out
attack on the capital. Ned, Tyrion, and Robert had defended the city well, catapulting wildfire at
the enemy. Where they had found it was anyones guess. Stannis had been fighting roving bands
of Tywins sellswords in the west and unable to come to his brothers aid in time. Robert had gone
out as one of the fighters, as had Ned, but Robert had not survived the fighting. His skills were too
rusty, though it was said he had taken out a lot of the enemy. Ned lived, but he was now a hostage
of Twyin and his freed daughter. Queen Margaery had been spirited away by Renly, back to
Highgarden. It was said that she was pregnant with Roberts child. The Lannisters would not have
let her live if she had stayed. Jory and the rest of the Stark men were being held captive as well.
Sansa and Bran spent many hours in both the godswood and the sept praying for them all. No
word on Tyrion Lannister or the master of whispers.
Sandor shuddered at the details of the wildfire, and was glad they had left when they did. He
wondered if maybe they should have stayed behind instead, maybe they could have helped Ned
and the others. Syrio offered to spar with him, to take his mind off the bad news they had
received. He missed Jory, but was grateful for the friend he found in Syrio, even if the man found
humor in the oddest things. He only hoped his old friend survived to make it back to meet his new
friend.
They received word from the Lannisters, a message sent across the kingdoms. Bend the knee to
the new king, Tywin Lannister, first of his name. Neither Stannis nor Renly took kindly to that.
Sandor shook his head when he heard. Instead of joining forces, the Baratheon brothers were each
declaring themselves the rightful regent, since the queen was still a few months away from giving
birth. No good can come of this. Robb must have seen that, too, because he refused to declare for
either brother until they stopped bickering and defended the kingdom. I have enough to worry
about defending the people of the North, he was quoted saying. The other Houses agreed, but
remained in the fields with whoever was closest to them in order to defend their lands and people.
Not even a month later, they received word that Renly was dead. Killed by a shadow, killed by
his kingsguard, killed by his own brother, that part was unclear. There was even a rumor that

Lady Catelyn killed him when she was sent to negotiate with him. Sandor snorted at the thought.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Ned - 40 Sansa - 17
Sandor - 33
Catelyn - 39 Arya - 15
Theon - 25
Robb - 20 Bran - 14
Gendry - 21
Jon - 20 Rickon - 8

Lady Stark Returns

Chapter Notes

Posting a bit late, sorry. Was tired last night.

See the end of the chapter for more notes

Catelyn returned to Winterfell. She brought her own sworn shield, Lady Brienne of Tarth, her
gooddaughter Jeyne Stark, formerly Westerling, and their prisoner, Jaime Lannister, as well as a
small guard of men and Grey Wind, who was guarding the little Lady Stark. Sansa was gracious
to all, though a little cold to the Kingslayer. Arya openly scowled at the man. Bran mimicked
Sansas courtesy and Rickon just looked bored.
My, my, Lady Sansa, youve grown well. As have you, Lady Arya, Jaime said, as if she had
greeted him with a curtsy instead of hostility.
Ser Jaime is to be our guest for a while. Robb feels it would be better to keep him safe here,
rather than cart him around with the camp, Catelyn said. He, Edmure and my uncle are on their
way to the Twins. Edmure is getting married.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Jaime - 38
Ned - 40 Sansa - 17
Sandor - 33
Catelyn - 39 Arya - 15
Theon - 25
Robb - 20 Bran - 14
Brienne - 23
Jon - 20 Rickon - 8
Gendry - 21

The Maid of Tarth

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

You any good with that sword, woman? he asked Brienne when he saw her in the training yard.
Good enough to stay alive. You? she responded.
Good enough to keep my charge alive. He considered her for a moment. Want to spar?
She raised an eyebrow at him. It had not escaped his notice that no one else had offered in the time
she had been there. Syrio would have, but his duties did not leave him much time for friendly
sparring at the moment. Osha had offered, but there was only so much she could do since she only
knew how to wield a spear.
Sure. Start slow? she asked, but he could see it was a test.
He grinned at her, Not likely.
**********
They were in a tavern a few days later when Brienne started speaking about her former lord, It
was No One, who killed Renly.
No one? What does that mean? Gendry asked.
Fucking riddles, Sandor thought. Sandor hated riddles. He was usually able to solve them after a
while, but he hated them. Bran had a book full of them that he would read to Sansa sometimes in
the evening.
No One. It means a Faceless Man, Syrio said quietly. Most dangerous, they can blend into any
situation, become anyone because they are no one.
You sure it was one of these...no ones? Gendry asked. He was a bit of a skeptic when it came to
things like this. Sandor tried to keep an open mind, though this Faceless Man thing wasnt that
beyond his ability to believe.
Tis dark magic, you think? The wildling woman was the most likely to believe, as she had seen
things beyond the Wall that could only be explained by magic.
Brienne shrugged. That, I cannot say. Ser Loras and Lady Catelyn saw it, too. She had been sent
by Lord Robb to speak to both the Baratheon brothers and help them find peace. This Faceless
was posing as one of Renlys Highguard. I nearly beat him in a tourney to gain the last spot, but
he was better than me. I was granted a high position as Loras second for my skill. As soon as
Renly hit the ground, Alder or whoever he really is, pulled his face off, and disappeared into the
night. I nearly soiled myself when he did that, it was horrible. Loras was beside himself with grief.
They were...they were very close. It was Lady Catelyn who took charge. She told Ser Loras that it
was most likely Tywin who was behind this, and that Lord Stannis or Queen Margaery were
probably next. She charged him with taking half of his army back to protect his sister and her
unborn child, and send the other half to Stannis. Tywin would most likely try for Stannis before
Margaery though.
Tywin? I suppose thats a logical conclusion. Stannis doesnt have much reason to kill his

brother, not over a regency at least. Maybe if they were both vying to be king, but not regent,
Sandor said.
Faceless Men are extremely costly, as well, depending on the target, Syrio said. For the royal
familyonly a Lannister would be able to pay. Or a Tyrell, but they have no reason.
Gendry spoke, The Tyrells owed him for saving Queen Margaery, so yes, they are the least
likely. The only good thing to come out of this is that now all of the Houses that were divided
between Renly and Lord Stannis have united to fight the Lannisters, their bannermen and
sellswords.
Why are you with Lady Stark now? Osha asked Brienne, sipping her ale thoughtfully. Not that
Im complaining, nice having a fellow warrior woman around, but why not go to Stannis?
Lady Catelyn was kind to me while she was a visitor to the camp. She needed protection to
Stannis and then to get back to her son, Robb. I was going to be escorting her anyway, before
Renly Anyway, along the way, I came to admire her and swore my life to hers. Lord Stannis
has plenty of soldiers ready to fight for him. Lady Catelyn did not. She needed me and I needed
her, I discovered. Besides, I'm the only one who can guard the Kingslayer without giving in to the
temptation to kill him, as it turns out. Sandor watched Brienne become slightly sullen from the
talk. She was better when she was overly cheerful and her optimism was too bloody much to take
in the early morning hours when they sparred.
Well, heres to serving the Stark women, Sandor said, raising his mug. May we keep them
protected, and not be driven insane by them. The other four laughed heartily at that and gave
cheers.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Jaime - 38
Ned - 40 Sansa - 17
Sandor - 33
Catelyn - 39 Arya - 15
Theon - 25
Robb - 20 Bran - 14
Brienne - 23
Jon - 20 Rickon - 8
Gendry - 21

Red Wedding
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

The news of Robbs death reached them. Catelyn had told the family what had happened, her
voice tight and angry as she read aloud from the missive sent by the Freys, for which Sandor had
been present. It was easy enough to read between the lines. Walder Frey had not forgiven the
slight against him, and made an alliance with the Boltons for revenge. There was a strong
suspicion that the Lannisters were also involved, but nothing that could be proven without a
doubt. Roose Bolton had been eyeing Neds position in the North, and on the few occasions he
had visited Winterfell in the past, Sandor had made sure to keep Sansa and Arya away from him,
making up excuses like going for a ride in the Wolfswood or scheduling extra defense lessons.
How Roose believed the Northmen would accept him after turning on the most beloved Starks
was beyond him.
Edmure remained a hostage at the Twins with his new wife, though the Blackfish had escaped.
Sandor contributed Catelyns shorter than normal temper to these facts.
Sansa walked to the godswood after the family meeting, tight-lipped and fighting to keep back her
emotions, with Sandor following close behind. He held her beneath the weirwood as she cried for
her brother. Her eyes lacked their usual warmth after, though she tried to give him a smile. Dont
force it, little bird. Im the one person you dont need to hide your emotions from. She nodded,
closed her eyes and slept in his arms for a while.
They found Arya sparring with Syrio later on. Her moves were sloppy and full of anger, betraying
her emotions. Syrio only commented when necessary. Later, he and Syrio were dismissed as Arya
had announced for no particular reason that she and Nymeria would be staying with Sansa and
Lady that night.
**********
Three weeks later, Robbs supporters began to show up at Winterfells gates. The Karstarks, lead
by a very wounded Rickard Karstark, were the first. He brought them good news, that Robb was
indeed alive, but even more wounded than him. The Karstarks had managed to get to his side
before he was struck down. They separated their forces, the Umbers, the Karstarks, the
Manderlys, the Mallisters, the Mormonts, the Hornwoods and the various houses of the river lords
loyal to House Tully, in groups of two to three houses and each trekked across Westeros to the
safety of the North and Riverrun, respectively, hiding their leader among their ranks, before
heading back to their own estates to regroup and recover. Catelyn was relieved to see her uncle
among the survivors as well.

Chapter End Notes

So, basically, since Sansa and Arya weren't in the capital and Ned is too valuable a
hostage to trade for Tywin to attempt to trade for Jaime (ha! a reversal of positions!),
and no Tyrion to even make the initial offer, there was no need for Catelyn to release
Jaime upon hearing the tragic (and inaccurate) news of her children dying at the
hands of Theon (though she may have tried to strangle Jaime in her grief and Brienne
stopped her), and therefore no need for Rickard Karstark to kill the Lannister and/or

stopped her), and therefore no need for Rickard Karstark to kill the Lannister and/or
Frey hostages, no need for Robb to take his head and then suffer from the loss of the
Karstarks' support. I'm kind of reaching a bit to say that having the Karstarks would
save Robb, but I'm ok with that if you are.
Ages (More or less)
Jaime - 38
Ned - 40 Sansa - 17
Sandor - 33
Catelyn - 39 Arya - 15
Theon - 25
Robb - 20 Bran - 14
Brienne - 23
Jon - 20 Rickon - 8
Gendry - 21

Leaving and Staying in Winterfell

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

The news of Joffreys marriage and then death at his own wedding brought mixed reactions.
Legitimized by his regal grandfather, Joffrey Lannister had been marching with a faction of the
Lannister to meet up with the Frey army for his marriage to one of Lord Walder's daughters,
though if the tales were true, he was only a figurehead and a weak one at that. The wedding was
as grand as possible, considering it was held in an army camp. It was a surprise attack on the camp
and both Joffrey and his Frey wife had been killed in the skirmish that followed. He heard Catelyn
mutter, First Edmure, now Joffrey, its hard enough getting men to the altar. The northern army
had had scouts in the area, but by all accounts, they were not the ones to do it. There was a
whisper of discontent in the camp, but there were always whispers of discontent, so Sandor didnt
put much stock in that, despite the rumors also saying it was the Lannister and Frey soldiers who
had gotten tired of the self-important grandson of their king. He did think that it would have been
quite fitting if it turned out to be true and they had killed him to spare themselves misery of his
company.
Later that day, they found a note from Bran. He had run away from Winterfell with Meera and
Jojen Reed. Hodor had gone with them, but Osha was left behind. She was furious about it, as
were the Lady Starks. It was one of the few times he heard both Sansa and Catelyn swear. A
small group was sent after them to retrieve the wayward son, but Sandor had a feeling they
wouldnt find them. Sansa confided to him later that she shouldnt have been surprised. Bran had
been talking about it for a while, that it was something he needed to do. Because winter is
coming, and its bringing something with it, she told him. Or at least that is what he and Jojen
were saying.
The Blackfish left with some of the army to lay siege to the Twins. He asked Sandor to join them.
Could use someone of your skills. Youve taught the troops well. They would follow you into
battle, of that I have no doubt. Though we'll be doing a lot of standing around for a while first.
My place is by my lady, Sandor said. Otherwise, I would.
Bryndon smiled knowingly. Take care of my great niece. I will see you again, Clegane.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Ned - 40 Sansa - 17 Jaime - 38
Catelyn - 39 Arya - 15 Sandor - 33
Gendry - 21
Robb - 20 Bran - 14 Theon - 25
Jon - 20 Rickon - 8 Brienne - 23

Agents of S.T.A.R.K.
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Robb had recovered, though it was many months before he was able to walk on his own, much
less hold a sword. The battles were being waged with Brynden Tully and Smalljon Umber as the
stand-ins for the acting Warden of the North. The Ironborn were occupying Moat Cailin and were
under siege by Ramsey Snow. This allowed Robbs forces to surround and annihilate the Bolton
force, and then take on the weary Ironborn, who were sent packing back to their isles if they
surrendered. Sansa had taken over listening to petitions in Brans absence. Rickon would sit with
her, but he usually ignored the proceedings despite Sansa and Maester Luwins admonishments.
Ser Rodrik handed over the reins of re-training Robb to Sandor and Brienne, whom he had
approved of as a fighter. His health hadnt been quite the same since Theons betrayal, and he had
recently caught a cold that he hadnt been able to shake yet. He even allowed his daughter Beth to
fret over him, which was rare. Sandor agreed to it, as long as it didnt interfere with his duties of
guarding and training Sansa. After Theon, he didnt want to take any chances.
Sandor, Ser Rodrick said, pulling him aside. Lord Robb asked me to assemble a small team to
infiltrate the Red Keep and rescue Lord Stark and our men. Would you
Of course, Ill have a list of people to recommend to you by the end of the day.
Thank you. I hope to send out the team in a month or two. Special training will be required.
Beth approached her father. The man nodded to Sandor and allowed his daughter to lead him
away.

Chapter End Notes

Strategic Tactical Aerial Recovery Kinsmen (I have no idea, I'm just making crap up
at this point, I should really go to bed)
Ages (More or less)
Ned - 40 Sansa - 17 Jaime - 38
Catelyn - 39 Arya - 15 Sandor - 33
Gendry - 21
Robb - 20 Bran - 14 Theon - 25
Jon - 20 Rickon - 8 Brienne - 23

Death Comes In Threes

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Twyin was dead and Cersei had claimed the Iron Throne for herself. It was said that chaos reigned
in the capital, and the smallfolk and highborn alike were deserting like rats off a sinking ship.
There were rumors of what happened to Tywin, but the most popular theory was that Cersei had
killed him in a fit of madness when she heard about Joffreys death. The second most popular
theory was that Tyrion had returned and shot his father with a crossbow. The least popular, and
probably the most likely in Sandors opinion, was that Tywin had simply choked on a piece of
food.
That was the news he could handle. He wished the visitor to Winterfell had stopped there. Gregor
was dead as well. It was said that the Martells has used the disorder in Kings Landing as a
distraction and went after the Mountain That Rides in the field while his master wasnt around.
The Red Viper had stalked him for days, then struck him when he was most vulnerable and gutted
him slowly. The stories varied on if the Sand Snakes had helped.
It was one of the few times Sandor let himself get rip roaring drunk. He wasnt sure if he was
toasting the death of his childhood tormentor, or mourning the loss of his own revenge, though at
the very least, he could take some solace in the fact that Gregor had died in great pain. Syrio and
Brienne accompanied him to the tavern, and (Sandor assumed) dragged him back to his room after
that. He awoke to Sansa sitting by his bedside, ready to tend to his hangover, and promised
himself he would thank his charge, the Braavosi and the Maid one way or another.

Chapter End Notes

For the record, Joffrey was the first death.

Ages (More or less)
Ned - 40 Sansa - 17 Jaime - 38
Catelyn - 39 Arya - 15 Sandor - 33
Gendry - 21
Robb - 20 Bran - 14 Theon - 25
Jon - 20 Rickon - 8 Brienne - 23

A King's Bastard
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

How does it feel, milord? the young blacksmith asked. Mikkon had given Gendry more
responsibility and one of them was creating new swords for the household guard, including
Sandor.
He stepped out into a more open area and took a few practice swings. It was lighter than he
expected, but it looked similar to his previous sword. He swung it around a few more times. It
would take some getting used to, but he would be able to move faster with this sword. Will it
have the same strength as my previous one? His last sword had broken during a spar using live
steel. He had hit his opponents blade at just the wrong angle and a crack had appeared. Mikken
had shaken his head when he saw it and ordered Gendry to make Sandor a new blade.
Moreso, milord.
Good. Ill be take it for sparring today, let you know how it works out. Good work, lad.
Gendry smiled in a dopey manner, pleased that his work was found acceptable. Glad to be of
service, milord.
**********
Robb was looking better each day. His wife and sisters would often come to watch his training,
though Catelyn discouraged them and refused to join them, even if Brienne was the one in charge
of training that day.
Shes just worried about you, Sandor said to Robb, after the young man complained about
Catelyn. She doesnt know when shell see your father again, if shell see him again, Bran
disappeared with the Reeds, nearly lost you to the damned Freys.
Rickon had joined in their training sessions. Arya wanted to as well, but Catelyn had put her foot
down about that. She was already upset to learn about Syrio, though didnt turn the man out, since
Ned had made the arrangements. She either didn't know or refused to say anything about Brienne
and Osha training Arya. Instead of training with Robb and Rickon, Arya took to bothering the
new smith, who would patiently answer all her questions. They seemed to be friends already,
which made Sandor corner Arya one afternoon.
Hes my friend from Kings Landing, she admitted.
The smiths apprentice who was friends with the butchers boy?
How do you know about that?! she demanded.
He laughed. Dont get your hackles up, wolf-girl. Jory told me. Dont worry, I wont interfere.
He puts up with your antics, so hes alright by me. Now if youll excuse me, I have to go see
Robb about a kings bastard.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Ned - 41 Sansa - 18 Jaime - 39
Catelyn - 40 Arya - 16 Sandor - 34
Gendry - 22
Robb - 21 Bran - 15 Theon - 26
Jon - 21 Rickon - 9 Brienne - 24

No Two Sisters Are Alike

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

He had suspected it for a while, but now he was sure of it. Sansa was staring at him. Blatantly
staring at him. He should have felt awkward, maybe even nervous, but the sun was shining
brightly for once and they had been training all afternoon. As soon as he stripped his tunic off, he
felt her eyes on his naked torso, his battle scars on display for all to see. Robb had stripped off his
as well, and was showing off for his little wife, who was nearly ready to pop from her pregnancy.
Sandor could not afford to be so upfront about it, but if he suddenly felt the need to dump a bucket
of water on himself to cool down, and if Sansa wanted to keep staring, who was he to complain?
Probably just curious about the male form. As long as she wasnt looking at anyone else, he was
fine with it.
Brienne just rolled her eyes and told him to not catch a cold. It was nice having a sister again.
**********
Now duck under, good, attack the back of the knee to bring them down, then attack here, on the
spine, good, hard as you can. Harder! Brienne yelled. She had been helping Sandor with Sansa
and Aryas defense lessons. Brienne had had more women specific training thanks to her father
and was passing it on to Sansa. Very good, Lady Sansa. Now, try it against your sister.
She sat down with Sandor as the two sisters circled each other. Lady and Nymeria were watching
intently, circling with their mistresses, but staying out of the way. And Lady Catelyn has no idea
about this? Brienne asked him, sipping carefully from her water cup.
He shook his head. At this point, I have no idea anymore. She doesnt mention it. No one really
talks about it, though only Ned, Jory and the boys know about it. Oh, Ser Rodrick does as well,
now that I think about it.
Do you really think she would ban it, considering this training is what saved her daughters life?
He shrugged. Ive learned not to push Catelyn when it comes to her daughters. If she knows,
fine. If she doesnt, then probably better that she doesnt know.
**********
You ever goin ta tell the lady how you feel about her? Osha asked him when he stopped in the
kitchen for a late lunch. She had plopped down next to him with a tray of goodies before
blindsiding him with the question.
The fuck are you talking about? he asked, tearing into the bread she had brought him.
Lady Saaansa, she drawled. You gonna tell her? That youre in love wit her. I can tell her, if
you like. I can also teach her ways ta please--
Sandor slapped his hand over her mouth. Never mention this again. She shoved his hand away,
right into his face. Ow.
Why not? She frowned, then got a knowing look on her face. Oh, you want ta teach her
yourself. I can understand that, but theres some things a woman should learn about from another
woman.

Damn it, woman! Keep your voice down! He attempted to cover her mouth again, but she bit
his hand before he could. OW! Fuckin HELLS!!
Osha just grinned. Fine. Ill leave this alone. For now. He growled at her as she walked away
laughing.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Ned - 41 Sansa - 18 Jaime - 39
Catelyn - 40 Arya - 16 Sandor - 34
Gendry - 22
Robb - 21 Bran - 15 Theon - 26
Jon - 21 Rickon - 9 Brienne - 24

Going In The Right Direction

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Youre going back to the battlefield? Sansa asked incredulously. Sandor snorted quietly, it was
no surprise to him, but Sansa just glared daggers at him and went back to her brother. The baby
is due any day now. You could at least stay long enough for that!
War waits for no man, nor babe, Robb pointed out. Sandor could have sworn he heard her
growl. Robb did not. I have to strike back against--
Against who, exactly? she demanded. Cersei has made a complete mess in the capital with the
Faith Militant. Youve organized men to rescue Father and our men being held there. Theyll be
leaving any day now. Renly is dead, his supporters are either in Kings Landing trying to bring
order or up North at the Wall with King Stannis, who is fighting with the Nights Watch, I might
add. The Ironborn are in the middle of a civil struggle since the death of Balon Greyjoy. The
Boltons have been vanquished in your and Fathers name by our followers, the Freys are currently
under siege by Mormonts and the Hornwoods, led by our great uncle. The war across the country
is shifting, Robb. Who exactly do you need to fight against? Because if its anyone, then its
joining forces with Jon and the king regent at the Wall to combat those...those Sandor, what did
Jon call them?
White walkers, wights, basically the undead, he rasped. Jon had been sending letters since his
return from beyond the Wall, telling them, and the rest of Westeros, of the dangers coming south.
He had also told them of Benjens disappearance. Sansa had spent an extra hour in the godswood
praying that day.
Yes, them. If you must go to war, go North. Sansa folded her arms across her chest. Or stay
here and be present for the birth of your first child. Then go to war in the North.
Robb hissed, Sansa, I am your leader, the acting Warden of the North--
You are my brother! she yelled at him. My dim-witted brother by the current talk. Sandor
could see the vein popping out from Robbs forehead. He shifted his weight to the ready. He may
be the leader of the North and Sansas kin, but Sansa was his to protect, even from her own
brother, if need be. Do you know what a woman goes through during childbirth?
Robb looked startled by the question, but shook his head. The anger Sandor had seen was
receding and he relaxed his stance a bit.
Its pain. Imagine an orange trying to exit your body through your nostril. And not all women
survive it. Take a good look at your wife before you leave, Robb. Kiss her well and hold her tight,
because she might not survive the birth, Sansa said angrily. Sandor remembered that night so
long ago, remembered the panic that had set into Ned and Maester Luwin.
Shes right, Your Grace. The little Lady Stark is such a tiny thing. Your own mother had
problems the night Sansa was born. We didnt know if shed make it through the night. Sansa
looked startled by the news, but turned to Robb.
As your sister, as your advisor, please stay until after the baby is born. Then, go to Jon.
Robb was subdued, dubious about Jons claims, but agreed to stay. He left to go see Jeyne shortly
after.

after.
You never told me that before, Sansa said quietly.
Sandor shrugged. Never came up before. It was so long ago, I had nearly forgotten it.
She gave him a half-grin, So you have literally known me my entire life, then?
Just about.
**********
I think Im in love with the Kingslayer, Brienne said out of the blue. She, Syrio and Sandor
were taking a much needed break and sharing a meal together at the tavern. Osha had joined them
for once.
You...when have you had time to do that? Sandor asked in disbelief. Syrio chuckled, Osha
laughed, and Brienne blushed.
Catelyn is surrounded by at least two guards most days, so she set me to be the main guard for
Jaime. She knows I wont be tempted to strangle him, or let him go free. I guarded him a lot while
we were in the field with Robb for the same reasons. We started talking one day, well, he started
talking at me. Mostly insults. After a while he got bored with that. Then he started talking about
random topics, the weather, his home, his family. I didnt have much to say, whereas he had too
much to say. I responded a little, whenever he asked questions. Anyway, he asked today if he
could have a walk around the castle, just to stretch his legs. I told him I would speak to Catelyn
about it, but when I realized I was looking forward to escorting him for that walk, should she say
yes
The heart is a funny thing, Syrio commented. It loves who it loves, and will not take reason
into account.
No shit. So what are you going to do about it, Maid? Sandor asked. About the feelings, I
mean.
What can I do? There is no possible way he could return them, Brienne said sadly.
Osha snorted. Just take pleasure with the man. If hes too daft to see the benefit of having a
strong woman like yourself, then thats his loss, not yours.
Osha Brienne said and shook her head. I feel better having admit it though, but now Im
feeling quite awkward, so Syrio, any ladies in your view?
Syrio deflected the question with a bawdy tale of merchants wife he once had to convince to not
jump off the Titan.
**********
The team consisted of five people, two of which he was fairly certain could handle the entire job
on their own, though the other three were just as capable. Syrio, good travels, my friend, he
grasped the man in a brotherly hug. He turned to the shortest figure. Wolf girl, stay safe. Your
mother and sister will kill me for sending you on this mission if you die.
Sansa wont kill you, and as funny as it would be to see Mother attempt to kill you, I have every
intention of returning home alive, she said with a wry grin. And I made a promise to someone
that I would return.

Sandor didnt have to ask if that promise had been made to a certain blue-eyed blacksmith. He and
Brienne had a bet going on if she would run away with him, or stay and demand to Catelyn that
she be allowed to marry him. He had picked that latter.
**********
Jeyne gave birth to a healthy little boy. The entire family that was still available waited with Robb
during the birth. Sandor thought he might have heard Robb muttering a prayer to let her make it
through this. The bells tolled for the first born of the next generation of Starks. She and Robb
named him Eddard, in honor of the captured patriarch.
Robb met with his bannermen a day later to discuss the next move. "You're sure you don't want
me to join you?" Sandor asked him after everyone else had left.
Robb shook his head. "No, I need you to stay here and protect Winterfell. Ser Rodrick is getting
on in years, and this blasted weather isn't doing him any good. If you're here, I'll know our family
is safe."
Sandor bowed his head. "As you say, Lord Robb."
Robb took half his armies North a week later. Osha waved at them as they left, Finally going in
the right direction!
A rider came from the south not even an hour after the last man left. The siege at the Twins was
successful. Edmure and his wife were freed. The Freys were no longer in power, and Walder Frey
had been sentenced to death. Ser Brynden had administered the sentence and then the execution.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Ned - 41 Sansa - 18 Jaime - 39
Catelyn - 40 Arya - 16 Sandor - 34
Gendry - 22
Robb - 21 Bran - 15 Theon - 26
Jon - 21 Rickon - 9 Brienne - 24

A Suitor Discussion
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Sansa slammed the letters onto her writing desk angrily. Sandor was sharpening his blade. He
watched her as she began to pace. Her eighteenth nameday was not long past and Cat had told her
it was high time she married.
How can I marry any of these men?! she exclaimed. They speak of only what a marriage to
them will do for our respective families and send me nothing but pretty words with no intention.
Their gifts show that they know nothing about me, have not tried to learn anything about me.
How can they possibly expect to court me when they are nothing but hot air?
Lots of women like pretty words and flashy jewelry, he said with a shrug. It pained him to think
about her marriage, but he swore to himself he would advise her as best he could.
Lots of dumb cunts, she snorted. Sandor chuckled. Lady Catelyn would have admonished both
of them, but fortunately, little Ned was the apple of his grandmothers eye, and she had left the
letters for Sansa to review to go be with him in the nursery. Sandor, I cannot marry any of them.
Even Willas Tyrell, who seems nice enough, but we have little in common. What am I going to
do?
He knew this day would come, but he had always thought she would be happy to marry, which
would make it easier for him to let her go. Figuratively speaking. He would stay her shield. He did
not trust another with her safety, husband or not. Visit them, meet them, find out what theyre
really like, he suggested.
She sat down next to him and leaned her head on his shoulder. I suppose. I do not want to leave
Winterfell again. Bad things happen when we go south.
Youll have to leave eventually. Youre a princess of the North, or as close to one as a Stark can
be. The people look to your family for strength. Your duty to your family is to make a good
match.
I did not ask to be someone the people can look up to. I had an opportunity to be an actual
princess with Joffrey, and I did not want it then either. And why can not a good match be
someone who is strong, not necessarily someone who is rich? Like them." She gestured to the
letters. "Not one of them is known for their fighting skills. My husband should be someone who
can support Robb military-wise, with an army, with leadership. Bran and Rickon can marry for
wealth. Arya and I should marry for strength. Personally, I would prefer someone I can at least be
friends with, maybe even love. Do you not agree? Maybe Mother will allow me to set a condition.
Any man who wants to marry me must beat my sworn shield in combat. She grinned up at him.
Itll be like a song.
He chuckled, sounding hollow to himself, yet said nothing. He was starting to see that she was
setting up a difficult standard for a husband. It was dangerous to agree with her, but he couldnt
bring himself to chastise her for it either.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Ned - 41 Sansa - 18 Jaime - 39
Catelyn - 40 Arya - 16 Sandor - 34
Gendry - 22
Robb - 21 Bran - 15 Theon - 26
Jon - 21 Rickon - 9 Brienne - 24

Trying To Learn
Chapter Notes

Pairs with ch2 of Companion For Life

See the end of the chapter for more notes

Sansa dragged him to the godswood every so often and made him sit beneath the weirwood tree to
hold her. She did this whenever she felt overwhelmed by fear, anger, or other negative emotions.
He didnt mind, of course. He even allowed himself to enjoy it, to enjoy the fact that she came to
him for comfort. He would hold her and for the brief time they spent in the godswood, he would
allow himself to pretend she sought comfort from him because she felt something for him, and not
because he was just her most trusted friend and protector. He couldnt tell her no when she asked
him to be her practice partner after surprising him with a kiss.
I want to practice, she explained.
Practice? He gave her a dubious look. He didnt want her practicing. Practicing meant her
husband would be just about the luckiest man in the whole fucking world, and Sandor was
already jealous of this unknown man.
Yes, for...um...my future husband, whoever he may be, she said, looking up at him. He should
have said no. He was about to, then she started listing reasons why it should be him. I trust you.
You would be honest about how Im doing, you would tell me if Im doing something wrong, or
being silly, or stupid, or...or...anything else I need to know. She looked up at him, those big
soulful eyes he could never say no to. Im sorry, I should have asked first. I just got so ahead of
myself.
He let his head fall back against the weirwood. The pain from hitting the bark let him know he
wasnt dreaming. Fuck. Shes really asking me this? I should say no. This will only end in
heartbreak, MY heartbreak. If I say no...would she end up asking someone else? Bugger me with
a hot poker. Exactly what do you want to practice on me? he asked, regretting it already.

Chapter End Notes

He's doomed. Dead man walking. No going back now.

Ages (More or less)
Ned - 41 Sansa - 18 Jaime - 39
Catelyn - 40 Arya - 16 Sandor - 34
Gendry - 22
Robb - 21 Bran - 15 Theon - 26
Jon - 21 Rickon - 9 Brienne - 24

Return of the Stark

Chapter Notes

Pairs with ch 3 of Companion

See the end of the chapter for more notes

Ned was back. Jory was back. All of the Stark men had returned. It had taken nearly six months
(though four of those had been travel time), but Syrio, Arya, Alyn, Cayn, and Harwin had
managed to pull it off. All of the men were emaciated, and the nearly two months of covert travel
back to Winterfell hadnt done them any favors, but the entire castle rejoiced at their return. A
feast was set to be held as soon as possible, and as soon as Maester Luwin cleared them for
merriment. Ice was recovered as well, and sent immediately to Robb in the war against the White
Walkers. Sandor wondered what it was about Valyrian steel that was so effective against the
nightmare in the North.
**********
Arya sat with him on the wall walk as they both watched for the rider. Robb had sent messengers
down weekly. This one was late. The previous news hadnt been good. Every available fighter
was heading towards the wall, even as far south as Dorne. Only the bare minimum were staying
behind at the various strongholds. Even Sandor was pulling triple duty, being a sworn shield,
being a watchman, even being a guard for Jaime Lannister on occasion. Only the people from the
West and the capital stayed away. Sansa worried that they might take this time to attack, but
Kings Landing was in a huge disarray. Cersei had created a monster of a power in the Faith
Militant and she was currently warring with them. In addition, he had heard stories of the Iron
Bank of Braavos and how they were also coming for the crown. Syrio told many fascinatingly
bloody stories about how the Bank had its due.
Finally a rider approached. The Northmen were winning, but at a terrible cost. In a rare bit of
humor, Robb wrote that it would go a lot better if the dragon queen from across the Narrow Sea
would get off her arse and fly over to help.
**********
Catelyn called him to her solar two days after that. She was sitting with her grandson Ned again,
but something was troubling her. Her husband Ned was beside her, still looking frail, but much
better than when he had first come back. Her maid offered him tea before leaving.
Clegane, do you remember my friend Petyr Baelish? she asked without preamble.
I do, from the time he came to Winterfell to challenge Brandon, and during the time spent at
Kings Landing.
You are possibly the only person we can trust to tell me the truth. She handed him a letter before
continuing, He has sent a marriage proposal. Has been sending them since I returned to
Winterfell. He wishes to unite the Vale with the North. Two marriages, in fact, his and mine, and
Sansa with a young lord named Harry Hardyng. My advisors say to go ahead with the one for
Sansa, but an approval of this weighs heavily on my heart. Petyr was always a dear friend, but...I
fear what will happen if we do allow Sansa to wed his ward. In addition, he married my sister as

his first wife. Her death was tragic, but he is not yet a widower a year and he sends me these
missives.
Must not have heard of my return, though Im not sure why he thinks Im dead , Ned
commented.
It does not bode well, but our advisors say it is just the thing to help the North. What is your
opinion, based on what you know of him?
Shes not taking my opinion seriously, seeing as how I absolutely abhor the man from my time as
Hand, Ned said with a grin. In my defense, he was quite horrible. Catelyn shushed him.
Sandor gave them a small smile. My lady, I think you know already what you wish to do and are
only looking for someone else to support your decision. Personally I would say no, you shouldnt
trust the man. I...Do you know how I got these scars? he asked her. She shook her head. Ned
didnt know either, despite meeting him when the wound was still new. Very few do. I hadnt
even told Sansa, and you know how close we are. I intended to tell her, someday, or if she ever
asked. Lord Baelish somehow found out, and he told her before I could. He did not know that I
was close with Sansa, or maybe just refused to believe it, and he attempted to frighten her with the
story, trying to sow discord or just make her feel like she would be in danger from me. I dont
know, but I take it as a personal offense that he would do that to my charge.
I had no idea. She never mentioned it. Catelyn looked pensive. Ned was shaking his head,
muttering something under his breath.
Shes a lady. She wouldnt, Sandor said, shrugging. What of Hardyng? Will he be a good
husband for her?
Possibly, though I am concerned about the stories Ive heard of him. He already has one bastard,
and he seems well on his way to making more. Lyanna was right to doubt Neds assurances of
Robert, Ned had the decency to look guilty, and I fear this Hardyng will be the same. In
addition, Sansa is dragging her feet on marriage, and I cannot blame her. I see where her heart lies,
and she does not want to be unfaithful, but she cannot see how the union is possible. He felt his
heart clench at the thought of his little bird being in love. Part of him wanted her to be happy, but
the other wanted to find out who the man was and gut him like a deer. Catelyn looked up at
Sandor. He thought she was expecting an answer, but he had no idea what the question was and
remained quiet. Do you know why I disliked you all those years?
He honestly hadnt thought about it. No. Didnt seem like a big deal.
She laughed. You never were one for others opinion of you, were you? Well, it was
stubbornness and mistrust on my part. You had very little to do with it, as it turns out. I allowed
the rumors and harsh truths about your family to cloud my judgement. Specifically, your brother. I
judged you on what I heard of him, and that was unfair of me. I apologize for that.
Water under the bridge. Dont worry yourself about it, he said lightly. He meant it, but clearly,
Lady Stark wanted to ease her conscience. Ned patted her hand as encouragement.
Well, I said you had very little to do with it, she said with a sheepish smile. There was one
more thing. Another reason was your ability to ingratiate yourself with everyone without using
flattery. You didnt even try, and you only spoke bluntly, when you deigned to speak at all. You
saw the truth and you spoke it. You saw the ugliness in me, and you didnt judge me on it, even
tried to help me correct it. I did not appreciate it at the time, but, thank you. I made some grave
mistakes with my children because of my dislike, but I hope to make it up to them.

I was just trying to look out for the family, Cat He was getting embarrassed by her words and
wasnt sure how much more he could take.
Clegane Sandor, do you love my daughter?
He looked down at his hands, I care about all the Starks, my lady.
He could practically hear the smile in her words. Was she mocking him? I know. Ive been sure
of that for some time, as I have been sure of your love for my eldest daughter. Answer honestly.
Are you in love with her?
His jaw tightened, but he said, I am, my lady. But I know my place is as her shield. I am sixteen
years her senior, thirty-four to her eighteen, almost nineteen, years. I have only a small estate to
my name, one that a castellan looks after, since I cannot bring myself to go visit. I am not worthy
of her, in any standing.
Ned spoke, Before the Boltons treachery, Robb had briefly considered making a match between
Sansa and Ramsey, if he decided to petition Stannis to legitimize the man. It seems to me, that you
are a much better match, temperament and personality wise, at least. He paused and looked at his
friend. And if a bastard as vile as Ramsey Snow was considered, then why not a loyal and
honorable man of the Starks?
My lord, you know why. I am second born of a minor house-- It was Catelyn who silenced him
with a firm hand.
All houses started off small, and you are no longer just a second born son. You are Lord
Clegane of Clegane Keep. As for making your house larger, we are still in need of a lord of the
Dreadfort. The Twins as well, but wed prefer if you were closer to Winterfell, though Edmure
could be convinced to give you that one, should you prefer it. We need someone who can handle
himself under pressure, keep a level head, keep the peace with the smallfolk, and come to our aid
when we need it. She smiled at him, and he felt hopeful, but it seemed too good to be true.
The Northern lords would not accept me
They would, Ned said. They know you, know of your loyalty, your valor in battle. They
wont contest this appointment, nor your marriage.
Catelyn spoke, My Uncle Brynden has been in charge of cleaning up the Dreadfort these past
few months, ever since he left the Twins, but he will need to get back to Riverrun soon to help
Edmure. You would not believe the horrors the Boltons kept in the dungeons. Uncle Brynden
held a huge bonfire, to show the smallfolk that sort of thing will not be happening any longer. The
people look forward to a new lord. You would be in charge of building an army as well as
rebuilding the lands. The people there have had a hard time under the thumb of the Boltons. If you
can handle the responsibility that comes with it, I will make sure you get it. With that, you will be
elevated to Sansas station, and can ask for her hand in marriage. Or not. As lord of the Dreadfort,
you will have your choice of brides.
I never thought I would marry, my lady, but if I did, I could never consider anyone other than
Sansa, he said softly.
Good! Then you will consider this offer then, Catelyn said with a smile, cooing at the babe in
her arms. Take a few days to think about it. Im sure youll make the right decision.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Ned - 41 Sansa - 18 Jaime - 39
Catelyn - 40 Arya - 16 Sandor - 34
Gendry - 22
Robb - 21 Bran - 15 Theon - 26
Jon - 21 Rickon - 9 Brienne - 24

Forbidden Fabric
Chapter Notes

Pairs with ch 4 of Companion

See the end of the chapter for more notes

Sandor stood on the wall walk two days later, watching for any sign of movement outside the
fortress of Winterfell. His only hint that he was not alone was the barest of sounds, and then a
knife was at his throat.
If I was your enemy, you would be dead right now, Arya told him from her perch behind him,
bringing her to his height.
If you were my enemy, you would be as well, he said, his short sword jabbing her lightly in the
stomach. She made a slightly impressed face.
Youve been pensive lately. And avoiding Sansa, Arya said, leaping down gracefully from her
perch.
Cant avoid her, Im her shield.
Arya laughed. And yet, youve been avoiding her. She hates it when you do that, but she figured
you were trying to work something out. So she sent me. What is troubling you, Hound?
Looks like were not the only ones concerned, then. Brienne and Jory appeared from the
opposite side of Arya. Brienne was helping Jory along. Maester Luwin had ordered all the
returned men to start taking daily walks. We noticed something was different, Brienne said.
Does this have anything to do with the lordship my parents offered you? Arya asked.
Sandor frowned at her, ignoring the congratulations from Brienne and Jory. How do you know
about that?
She shrugged, I have my ways. Sansa doesnt know about it, if thats what youre worried about.
Shed probably have a panic attack from the excitement.
He sighed heavily, I know, she wouldnt want me to stop being her shield. I dont plan on taking
it anyway.
What?! Why not? Arya cried. You can finally ask her to marry you. And shell be allowed to
say yes!
Sandor, why would you turn it down? Brienne asked.
He doesnt know, Jory said, chuckling. By the gods, I thought you would have figured it out
by now.
Sandor glared at him. What dont I know?
You dont know how she feels about you, he said very matter of factly. Arya and Brienne were

both shocked.
His confidence in his relationship with his little bird was wavering, She looks up to me. She
trusts me, to keep her confidences, to keep her safe. She sees me as her friend...
Arya barked out laughter. Sandor truly thought she would fall over the wall, she was laughing so
hard. Even Brienne was laughing though she was at least trying to hide it. Jory was just grinning.
What the fuck is so funny?!
Shes in love with you, you moron , Arya howled, still laughing. Shes been in love with you
for as long as I can remember. Probably as long as she can remember.
Shes right, Sandor, Brienne said kindly. Lady Sansa loves you. If you asked her to marry you
without having the lordship, she would run away from all this, she gestured to Winterfell, just to
be with you.
He gave them an odd look. She wouldnt. Would she?
Im going to tell you something, and then you decide for yourself, Arya said, still grinning like
mad, but she had stopped laughing. Do you remember when we were children, and Sansa got
really depressed for a whole month? It was over a dress.
Yes, he said, not sure what that had anything to do with his current situation. She wasnt
allowed to use some fabric she had been wanting.
Do you know why she wasnt allowed to use the fabric?
Not really. It was a long time ago. Something about the color was inappropriate? He really
couldnt remember that very well.
Arya took a deep breath and said slowly, like she was speaking to a child who was refusing to
understand, It was autumn yellow with black.
Whats so wrong with-- He stopped. Autumn yellow
Yep.
With black
Thats what I said. She looked gleeful as the realization hit him. Told you, ever since I can
remember, and thats one of my first memories. I have loads more, including just last week, when
she gave you that tunic she made you. Youre the only one outside the family that she does that
for.
Every instance he could think of flashed through his mind, applying this newfound knowledge to
each one. They were right. She loves me
She did say she was going to marry you when she was three, Jory pointed out. It was the talk
of the castle for weeks. Even then it was obvious how she felt.
Oh, I heard about that, Brienne said. And how she defended him to Lady Catelyn on
numerous occasions.
Dont forget how she takes care of him when hes sick or upset, Jory said. Or how she seeks
him out first when shes upset. Its like theyre married already.

I...I have to go talk to Lord and Lady Stark he mumbled.

He thought he heard Arya say, Damn right, you do.
Not a word about this from any of you! he yelled behind him.
**********
You want me to wait to tell her? Sandor asked.
Just a little while. You need to go to the Dreadfort to settle things there, and if Sansa knows
beforehand, she will want to go with you, and it would take longer. Well tell her we need you for
a diplomatic mission. Write her a letter to explain everything, and after a sennight, well give it to
her. There is still a chance shell try to follow you, but I will get her started on the wedding
preparations as a way to deter that.
Cat, I really dont think thats necessary Ned started. She shushed him.
I have to agree, Lady Stark, I dont think she would--
She might not, but better safe than sorry, wouldnt you say? Catelyn said, in way that gave
Sandor pause to argue more.
Alright, well go along with your plan, he said, but he felt doubt.

Chapter End Notes

I know, I'm horrible.

Ages (More or less)
Ned - 41 Sansa - 18 Jaime - 39
Catelyn - 40 Arya - 16 Sandor - 34
Gendry - 22
Robb - 21 Bran - 15 Theon - 26
Jon - 21 Rickon - 9 Brienne - 24

Stories, Forgiveness and Revenge

Chapter Notes

Pairs with ch 5 of Companion

See the end of the chapter for more notes

Getting in was easy. We snuck inside using the tunnels I found when I got lost one day during a
dancing lesson. Arya bit into the meat viciously, enjoying being the center of attention. Several
soldiers, including Brienne and Osha, were hanging onto her every word. Sandor was as well, but
he made an effort not to look like it. Now that he had made a decision and accepted the lordship,
he would be leaving on the morrow to the Dreadfort. He was trying to enjoy his last night in
Winterfell for the next month or so.
After that, we had to find the way to the black tunnels. The Spider had sent one of his little birds
to us with directions when we were near the crossroads inn, but it still took a while before we
could find them. The black cells is a large section, and we could only explore so much at a time.
Varys and the little Lannister had left Westeros by then, so they could only provide so much
information, she said after chewing and swallowing her food. We had to avoid the regular
guards as well as the black cell guards. Even worse, their schedules are not consistent at all. The
disorder in the capital is incredible. On one hand, it helped cover our movements, but on the other,
it made our work harder as well. We were only able to sneak them out in small groups, three to
four at a time as we found them, and it took several sweeps to make sure we got everyone. Father
was in the sixth group. He wanted to help, but she paused, a disconcerned look on her face.
He was better equipped to stay at the base we made and help on that end. The group listening
was nodding along as she told of the intense trip back to the North, always looking over their
shoulders, expecting soldiers to be after them at any moment, but never encountering them.
Sandor wanted to ask about her pause, but he already suspected. She was remembering her once
strong father, and how she found a severely weakened man. He wanted to assure her that Ned
Stark would grow strong once again, but it would be better to wait until the others had departed
the table. She scoffed at him when he told her, and punched his arm, telling him, Of course he
will, moron, but he saw the relief in her eyes. Sometimes you just need someone to tell you it will
be ok, even if by all rights, you know it for yourself.
**********
A rider brought the good news before he left Winterfell. The dragon queen had ridden in with her
three dragons, sending the frozen undead army to the next world in fiery haste. The war for the
Far North was turning.
Sandor was glad he had stayed behind at Winterfell as the rider described the arrival of the queen
in horrifically intense and fiery detail. He was also glad that he would be able breathe easier while
he took some time to visit the Dreadfort and see Ser Brynden about changing the reins over to
him.
**********
He went to the Dreadfort with an uneasy, leaving a distressed Sansa behind. She had asked to go
with him, which he had to refuse, even if he would have preferred it. Her distaste for leaving

Winterfell apparently did not apply if it meant a trip with him. He had thought she would kiss him
goodbye when she got a certain look in her eye, had been hoping for it since he had been avoiding
their practice sessions, but Jory came to find him before she had a chance and she had run off after
giving him a very rushed farewell. He growled at Jory, but couldnt find Sansa again before he
had to leave. He was really regretting avoiding the practice sessions as he and Stranger trudged
away from Winterfell.
Neither he nor her parents had told her why he was going, a plan he disliked more and more, but
he had already agreed and now it was too late to change his mind. Catelyn assured him it would
all work itself out in the end.
Syrio and Brienne took over his shield duties while he was away. He trusted them implicitly, but
he had a constant feeling of unease every moment he was apart from her. It took him a few days to
realize it was because he had never been apart from her for more than half a day since he had
returned from fighting the Ironborn with Robert and Ned. The Blackfish found this observation
amusing at the small welcome dinner held for the new lord. He was pleased to meet many of the
tenants, including the new cook and the current blacksmith and his two apprentices. The food was
delicious, and the work by the blacksmith was exceptional. He felt guilty thinking it, since Mikken
had forged his armor and his swords over the years and both he and Gendry were exceptional as
well. However, it would be fitting if this blacksmith or his apprentices were willing and able to
help him with a project he had been thinking about for several years now, but hadnt had the gall
to go through with.
A message from Sansa arrived a few days after he did, admonishing him for keeping her in the
dark and saying she should refuse his offer for her hand, which made his heart stop, but then
saying she wouldnt. She promised to get him back for it. Her anger was very clear in her
handwriting. The Blackfish laughed at that one. You left her the news in a letter? Im not sure
what you were expecting then, boy. My niece means well, but she knows her children far less
well than you do. You should have gone with your instinct on that one. Sandor nodded in
agreement and swore to himself that hed make it up to Sansa, as well as accept any punishment
shed have waiting for him.
Another message arrived the day after, apologizing and professing her love, promising she will be
a good wife to him and how she wished she could be there with him to prove it to him. His face
went a bit red at that, as he thought of the many ways he would have wanted to prove himself to
Sansa, and he wondered if she knew what she was writing. A third message arrived later that
same day, saying that she had started working on her maidens cloak and wedding dress, as well
as his cloak, and that if he could please send back the ravens, her mother had yelled at her for
using so many in such a short span of time. He laughed long and hard at that last one. Penning a
reply, he told her if she limits herself to writing him once a sennight, her mother wouldnt be as
upset. He promised to write back the same day he received her letters and he would be back as
soon as he could.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Ned - 41 Sansa - 18 Jaime - 39
Catelyn - 40 Arya - 16 Sandor - 34
Gendry - 22
Robb - 21 Bran - 15 Theon - 26
Jon - 21 Rickon - 9 Brienne - 24

Jon - 21

Rickon - 9 Brienne - 24

Reunions, Revenge & Requited Love

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

The greeting he received when he returned to Winterfell could have gone better. Shaggydog,
Nymeria, Lady, Ghost and Grey Wind were part of the advance party. He was surprised to see
Jaime Lannister riding with Brienne to meet him.
The Hound returns, Jaime called out jovially.
Kingslayer, youre looking...free, he replied.
Jaime laughed, You know, youre the only person who says it without it sounding like an insult.
I like you. Missed having you as a guard as well.
Sandor snorted. The sentiment remains to returned. Brienne, he said, turning to his friend,
Where is everyone? Wheres Sansa? If no one else, I at least expected her to ride out to greet
me.
I guess you didnt get the message before you left then, she said. We have guests. Petyr
Baelish and his goodson Lord Robert Arryn are visiting from the Vale, along with Lord Roberts
heir, Harrold Hardyng. Lord Baelishs reaction to seeing Lord Stark was...interesting, to say the
least.
Baelish nearly bugged his eyes out when he saw Stark, Jaime supplied helpfully. I think he
might have even said I thought you were dead. Curious reaction.
Brienne tsked him and continued, Sansa has been mostly hiding in her room since just after they
got here. Ser Jaime has proven himself trustworthy and he has taken my place to guard Sansa,
since Lord Eddard feels it best that Lady Catelyn has me around while Lord Baelish is visiting.
Even went as far as to renounce my father and sister, and my inheritance of Casterly Rock," he
said proudly.
"Not your brother?"
"Never him. He's an ass, but he's my favorite ass." Jaime smiled broadly.
Syrio and Lady Arya have been with her all morning, as well as Lady and Nymeria, until the call
went out that you were nearby. Im guessing they sent them out to greet you in their stead. Lady
looked at him with her wolf grin, her tongue lolling out. Jon is visiting as well. Robb returned
and brought him for a visit, as well as news that the dragon queen will be visiting in a few months.
Rickon is ecstatic to see if she brings her dragons. Lady Catelyn is not. The dragon queen sent out
messages that all the lords of the land are to converge on Winterfell in four months for a treaty. On
the plus side, she sent money and workers to build extra lodgings to house all these people. You
might have seen the beginnings of it as you rode in. Afterward, the lodgings will be given to the
Wildlings that wish to swear fealty to the Starks.
Why here?
Jaime replied, Because its so far north, and anyone who comes will have to leave their armies
behind. There is no place to hide them, save maybe the Wolfswood. Even that is a half day away.
Shes trying to isolate them to keep them from raising an army together. She and Stannis are

currently in peace talks from what I understand, but they will both come here once they are done.
After that, theyll likely head to the capital and depose my sister from the Iron Throne, if they
should fail to attend the Summit. I wish the Queen the best of luck, but I doubt shell need it.
Come, your lady is anxious for your return.
**********
He went directly to Sansas chambers once he was back inside the main Winterfell castle. Stranger
was tired enough to put up with the head groom and not bite anyone, so he wasnt particularly
worried about that.
Syrio was outside the door, gave Sandor a smile and nodded a greeting. He opened the door to see
Sansa and Arya were inside. Sansa was embroidering and Arya was talking her ear off. They both
looked up when he entered. Sansa dropped her embroidery and ran to him, launching herself into
his arms like she had done as a child, only he didnt need to kneel to catch her now.
Arya laughed. Ill leave to give you two some privacy. Keep it decent though, Id rather not get
yelled at by Mother. Im taking Syrio with me. Ill be with Gendry if you need me for anything.
Welcome back, Lord Sandor. She laughed some more as she exited the room, closing the door
behind her.
Sansa, Ive-- She slapped him, though she was still smiling. It smarted. Ow.
Thats for telling me of our betrothal in a letter. He couldnt protest that. She pulled him down
into a kiss. He thought he was going to melt into a puddle from happiness. Thats me saying I
forgive you.
Sansa
You have no idea how long Ive waited to do that without calling it practice, Sansa whispered.
You were saying?
He took a moment to recollect his thoughts. Oh, I was just going to say, Ive missed you.
She smiled at him. Ive missed you, too, my love. My Sandor. She pulled him down again, this
time for a light, chaste kiss. I will never let anyone come between us, she said fiercely.
A warning rang out in Sandors head. Did something happen? he asked.
You know me too well, she said. Taking his hand, she pulled him over to sit on the bed with
her. Lord Baelish is in Winterfell with my cousin, Robert Arryn and Lord Harrold Hardyng.
Brienne and the Kingslayer told me.
The first day he was here, he said some things I think he was going to try to get me to change
my mind about our betrothal. I did not know what he was capable of, so I locked myself away
here. Arya keeps me company mostly. Brienne, too. Mother as well, when she has time, but she is
also busy with preparations for the Queens Summit in addition to playing hostess. The only time I
leave my room is when I must go hear petitions with Father, and I insist on at least three people
being around me. Lord Baelish is often skulking around, but I refuse to let him find me alone.
Do you think he could convince you to break the betrothal? Sandor asked hesitantly.
What? Oh, no, of course not. She waved the notion away. Im more afraid of him trying and
failing, and then seeing what he would do next. I just...I have a bad feeling about him. I remember
him a bit from our time in Kings Landing, and I remember what he said about you. Father doesnt

trust him either, and encourages me to stay in a group.

Sandor could not argue with that. Before we go find your mother, I have something for you. A
few things, actually, but only one thing on my person right now. He brought out a necklace, a
round silver pendant hanging from it. She gasped as she saw it. A lone black hound sat on a ring
of silver, a little red bird fluttering above him, hanging from the top of the ring by the tips of its
outstretched wings. Many of the Bolton possessions were burned, their treasures either sold or
melted down to become something new. I requested this be made for the new Lady of the estate.
The blacksmith there has two apprentices, one of which specializes in detailed work like this.
When he heard it was for you, he set about finding the best pieces of silver to use for it. The bird is
his masterpiece in this. Though the dog is a close second. See, the way it shimmers? Its made of
dozens of ruby pieces, embedded into the silver. He had to be quick and place them just so in
order to achieve the effect. The dog is of onyx.
Sandor...it is us? He nodded. It is so beautiful, she whispered. He smiled and placed the chain
over her head, sweeping her hair back over it. Thank you, my love, she said, kissing him again.
**********
Ser Jaime has been trying to make reparations to our family. He has changed from the person he
once was. Brienne, I believe, is a major factor in this. A while ago, some of the guards were being
dishonorable to Ser Jaime when he was still in his cell. Brienne saved him, nearly at the cost of
her own life. She kept this information to herself, however. I only found out recently. He was
trying to repay her at first, but slowly, he began to change. She makes him a better man. He wants
to swear his vows to Father, who is reluctant, but Ser Jaime is understanding. He says he will fight
for the Starks and the Warden Of The North until his dying day, vows or not.
Sounds like a vow to me, Sandor commented. Sansa laughed. Lady was happily running
around them in circles as they walked.
Ser Jaime is very...passionate about some things. Brienne is one, his loyalty is another. Brienne
trusts him, and I trust Brienne. I also trust that my soon to be lord husband will keep me safe
should Ser Jaime ever prove himself to be undeserving of Briennes faith in him, she said
smiling.
He turned his head to say another jape at Lannisters expense, when they were interrupted by a
voice from across the courtyard. Lady Sansa!
I swear, I cannot be rid of this man, he is like a parasite on my shadow, she whispered to Sandor
before smiling her fake smile.
He saw the approaching group that included Lord Baelish, Lady Stark, Robb, Lord Commander
Snow of the Nights Watch, Brienne, Ser Jaime, a handsome young man that was probably
Hardyng, and a young, sickly looking boy that Sandor could only assume to be Lord Robert
Sweetrobin Arryn. Lady ran ahead of them to greet her brothers, Grey Wind and Ghost.
Nymeria appeared as well, meaning Arya was lurking about, probably at the blacksmiths area
still. Rickon and Shaggydog were nowhere to be seen, but that didnt mean they werent around.
Rickon and Shaggy had a tendency of following Sansa and Lady. A large man followed them. It
took him a moment, but he recognized the man from the Tourney of the Hand in Kings Landing.
Lothar Brune.
Lady Sansa. How delightful to see you out and about. And who is this...person? Lord Baelish
asked.
Sandor wanted to snort. There was no way Littlefucker wouldnt recognize him. Catelyn saved

him the trouble. Petyr, this is Lord Sandor Clegane. Recently he was Sansas sworn shield and
interim Master of Arms of Winterfell. Now he is Lord of the Dreadfort and Sansas betrothed.
How high you have risen, ser, Baelish said with a derisive grin.
Not as high as you, Lord of Harrenhal, since you started so much lower. And he is not a ser,
Sansa said stiffly. Thankfully.
You are happy hes not a knight? Hardyng asked her. He seemed genuinely confused.
Most knights I have encountered are not worthy of the title, she said coolly. San-- Lord
Clegane is better than a knight. She looked up at him adoringly. Because youre Sandor, he
heard her voice say from a long lost memory. He still couldnt believe that she loved him, or that
he had missed it for so long. Probably better this way. Would have driven myself insane knowing
the truth and knowing I couldnt have her. Or done something stupid, like run away.
So he is not one for vows then? Baelish asked. How can you trust his word?
He only makes vows he intends to keep. I have never known him to go back on his word,
Catelyn said helpfully. Baelish gave the briefest of scowls. One of the good things about Catelyns
stubbornness, once you had her loyalty, it was hard to lose it.
Well, isnt that nice , Baelish said through a tight smile.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Ned - 41 Sansa - 18 Jaime - 39
Catelyn - 40 Arya - 16 Sandor - 34
Gendry - 22
Robb - 21 Bran - 15 Theon - 26
Jon - 21 Rickon - 9 Brienne - 24

How To Piss Off The North

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Sandor!!
He woke from sleep instantly, grabbing his sword and running out the door without sparing a
moment. He ran into Brune in the hallway. He noticed an unconscious household guard on the
floor behind him. He thought it might be Ches, who was scheduled for castle patrol duty. Out of
my way, he growled at the slightly shorter man.
Sorry for this, Hound, Lothor said, taking a swing at him. Sandor dodged it easily.
You can shove your damned apology where the sun dont shine, he snarled, knocking Lothor
into the stone wall. The man slid down, unconscious.
Sandor!!
He stepped over Lothors legs and kicked open the door, grateful it hadnt been bolted. Out of the
corner of his eye, he saw the household guard running towards him as he stepped inside Sansas
room, Catelyn and Robb among them.
Harrold Hardyng was holding Sansa down, attempting to kiss her, but also needing to keep her
quiet. The Hound pulled him off of her and threw him across the room. Catelyn and Robb rushed
in, Catelyn running to Sansa, while Robb attempted to keep him from killing Hardyng.
Guards, seize this man, Robb said, pointing to Hardyng and pushing the Hound back. Lord
Clegane, I must insist you either step aside or attend to your betrothed. She is distressed .
That snapped him back. He nodded to Robb and turned back to Sansa. Catelyn handed over the
duty of comforting Sansa to Sandor, Ill go with the escort for Hardyng. Once you have
composed yourselves, join us at the dungeon. I would like to settle this matter quickly.
**********
Sansa washed her face thoroughly three times, then insisted on Sandor kissing her. I refuse to let
that mans lips be the last that kissed me, she said angrily. Then softly, Please, my love, erase
the feeling. I only ever want you to kiss me like that, she begged. They were both breathing
heavily by the time she felt she would only remember his kisses.
We...we should probably get downstairs, she muttered. It took a few more minutes before
Sandor was calm enough to walk, and a few more minutes after that for him to retrieve a tunic and
his boots. In his rush to get to Sansa, he had run out of his room wearing only breeches and a light
undershirt. I always imagined you didnt wear anything to bed, she whispered.
He chuckled, Too cold to do that. Maybe once Im married and have a sweet wife to keep me
warm. Though Ill insist she wear the exact same amount of clothing as me.
Sansa blushed, but smiled. Im sure the woman lucky enough to marry you will be more than
happy to comply.
**********

Catelyn and Sansa stood near the cell, but out of Hardyngs line of sight. Sandor, Ned and Robb
were standing right outside the cell, while Arya and Syrio were in the cell with the prisoner. It was
Arya who was given the task of questioning him. It made Sandor wonder exactly what happened
on the rescue mission if she was given such a responsibility. Hardyng had a black eye, a split lip
and a trail of dried blood coming from his hairline. Sandor was pretty sure the cut on his head was
from when he was thrown across the room, but the black eye must have either been from Sansa
fighting him off or one of the guards didnt take kindly to someone trying to hurt their Lady Sansa.
He was tied to a chair, with Arya sitting across from him.
Do you want to die? she asked calmly.
What? Hardyng asked. Sandor felt a tinge of glee at the alarm in the mans voice.
Do. You. Want. To. Die, she repeated calmly, revealing a dagger in her hand. If you do not
answer me, or if any of us believe you to be lying, I will cut you. If I cut you enough times, you
will bleed to death. Ive only ever done this once before, and last time it didnt take as many cuts
as it should have. The man died before I could finish my questions. She sighed, giving the
impression that she had been more upset her questions had gone unanswered than anything else.
If youre not going to answer, then I will have to assume the worst, and I will kill you. Thats my
beloved older sister you were assaulting.
Ill answer!
Good, Arya said, smiling broadly and standing up. Now, why did you go to Sansas room?
I...I wanted to try to convince her to marry me instead of the Hound.
How did you intend to do that? Because from what I understand, you were not talking with her
when they found you, Arya said, walking behind Hardyng and gliding the cold metal along the
skin of his neck.
I was talking, at first. Then she started to close the door on me. I was desperate! I pushed my way
into the room, trying to make her see reason, that the Hound couldnt possibly make her happy,
he said in a rush. Then she screamed for him, so I tried to hurry and prove my point. I was only
trying to show her how I could make her happy, I wasnt going to go any farther than kissing her.
I swear it!
Sandor glanced at Sansa. Her hands were clenched into fists, but she wasnt disputing anything in
Hardyngs account of what happened. Yet
Hes lying, Sandor growled. The look on Hardyngs face reinforced his belief. A dog can sniff
out a lie. You didnt go there to just talk. Lothor Brune, he was out in the hallway. He, or maybe
you, knocked out one of the guards on patrol. He attempted to stop me from helping Sansa by
using force. If you were just talking, then why bring muscle to watch your back?
I...I Aryas dagger was quicker than the eye and Hardyng cried out as she sliced his forearm.
Oh, such a shame. Looks like I cut a little too deeply. This is the inn all over again, she said in
disappointment.
Lord Baelish said if I took her by force, she would have no choice but to marry me! he cried
out. Her honor as a Stark and as a Northerner would demand it.
If Sansa had been angry before, it was nothing compared to what Catelyn looked like now. Ned
saw this, and nodded to Robb, who left to find Littlefucker.

He told you to rape her?! Arya asked. Sandor could see the blade trembling from anger, but she
kept her hand and did not cut him out of spite.
No, I mean, he just mentioned it in passing. Once he saw how... attached Lady Sansa is to her
sworn shield
Betrothed, Arya interrupted.
Sorry?
You said, sworn shield. Lord Sandor Clegane, close family friend to the Starks, is no longer her
sworn shield, he is her betrothed . There is a significant difference. Continue.
Uh, well, when he saw how attached Lady Sansa was to...Lord Clegane...he said that the only
way to save her from him would be by force.
Save her? Arya asked with a frown.
Clearly, she is under the illusion that she is in love with him. Or maybe he intimidated her until
she believed it. His eyes flicked up to Sandor before returning to Arya. I mean, look at him.
Catelyn had to hold Sansa back on that one.
Aryas jaw clenched. And you believe this makes you noble? Honorable? To rape a woman in
order to keep her from the man she chose to marry?
Hardyng frowned. Chose? As in, she asked him?!
Arya just smiled at that. You hadnt heard of how this match came to be?
Technically not a lie. The wolf-girl is a clever one.
No, I thought...I mean...Lord Baelish said Hardyng fumbled for words, his eyes taking on a
slightly panicked look. He turned to Sandor. My lord, I apologize, I thoughtI never would
have...
Sandor turned his head at the sound of approaching footsteps. Robb was approaching with Petyr
Baelish.
Arya whispered something in Hardyngs ear, sheathing her dagger and then began tending to his
wounds. Sandor hadnt even seen the medical kit with her.
What is the meaning of this? Baelish asked. I demand you release Harry at once.
Im sorry, Lord Baelish, Ned said, But he has committed a grievous crime against the Starks.
What crime? Baelish asked, his beady eyes narrowing. He looks more damaged than anyone
here! Who did that to him?!
That was me, Lord Baelish, Sansa said, stepping forward.
You, Lady Sansa? he said in disbelief.
Yes, I injured him as I was trying to defend myself from his... advances , she hissed. They
were most unwelcome and not honorable at all. My sister is tending to him, as you can see. I
managed to get to my dagger before he could stop me, but I am not particularly skilled with it and
may have put too much force behind it.

As for the crime, Ned chimed in, We take attempted rape very seriously here. He will be given
a trial, but considering he was caught in the act and has confessed to his intentions, he will be
found guilty and punished as according to our laws.
Sent to the Wall then? Baelish didnt look fazed by that. Probably thinks he can pay the Black
Brothers to give Hardyng back.
No, death. No one blinked. Hardyng looked like he was about to faint. Sandor knew it was a
lie. Only rapers were sentenced to death. Attempted rapers were given a choice of death, the wall
or having your hands removed. He said nothing, hoping Ned had a plan.
Im sorry, did you say...death? Baelish asked.
Yes, Ned said solemnly. We have no use for men who cannot abide by a code of honor. If he
had succeeded in raping her, I would have allowed her betrothed to execute him. However, since
he did not succeed, he will be granted the mercy of a swift and painless death.
Surely, there must be some way around this. Hes just a boy Baelish began.
A boy who already has one child and another on the way. A boy who tried to force himself on
my daughter, Catelyn said, revealing herself. A boy who should have been taught better than
this. A boy you brought into our midst. I ask you to leave at once, Petyr. My nephew may stay a
while longer, but I will understand if you take him with you.
Please, Cat, I swear I had no inkling of his intentions. I only brought him because he begged and
pleaded with me for one look at Sansa--
That is Lady Sansa to you, Sansa said in icy tones. Do not be familiar with me. You are my
mothers friend, not mine. The fact that you were the one who brought this person does not make
me inclined to think of you as such either.
I apologise profusely, Lady Sansa, Baelish said, bowing slightly to her. He is a villain, I never
should have--
Baelish! You cad! Hardyng cried out angrily. You dare speak of villainy? You were the one
who enticed me on this trip. You said I would have the most beautiful woman in the seven realms
as my wife, if only I could come between her and her betrothed. You were the one who pushed
me to hurry up and seduce her when Lord Clegane arrived back at Winterfell. You were the one
who told me you could insure I also become the Lord of Winterfell and Warden of the North
someday. Several in attendance gasped at the admission. Sandor wondered if Hardyng knew
what that sort of actions that promise would entail.
Harry, be quiet, Baelish hissed. Sandor slowly slipped behind Baelish.
No! Im going to die because you wanted more than you could get. You wanted the North, the
Vale, the Riverlands, all of Westeros to bow at your feet. The Eryie was just the first stop,
Winterfell would have been next, followed by Riverrun and the rest. You plotted to kill Lord
Stark as he sat in a prison cell down in Kings Landing, because you wanted Lady Stark as your
wife. You thought you had succeeded. You wanted Lady Sansa as my wife so she would be
properly wedded and bedded when you make her your mistress. You talk to yourself when you
think you are alone my lord, and you reveal much. Hardyng turned to Sansa. My lady, I would
never have let him take advantage of you. I was willing to go along with his plans because I had
heard such great things of you, but I would never have let him take you. I apologise to both you
and Lord Clegane, I would never have tried anything, never would have come to begin with, if I
had known that you were the one that chose him, instead of the other way around. He turned to

Ned next. Lord Stark, I apologise to you and Lady Stark as well. You welcomed me into your
home and this is how I repay you. I accept my punishment, but I refused to do so without making
everything known. I refuse to die protecting that man with my silence.
As well you shouldnt. Ned nodded to Sandor, who grabbed Baelish from behind. Lord
Baelish, you are under arrest for crimes against the North and House Stark. Ser Harrold, you will
be moved to a tower cell for the time being. Arya and Syrio will escort you. Once the three were
out of the cell, Sandor shoved Baelish inside it, feeling great satisfaction as the cell door clanged
shut. You will be tried for your crimes, but I believe Ser Harrolds testimony will be more than
enough to condemn you. I will send word to the Vale, as well to Queen Daenerys, Regent King
Stannis, and Queen Margaery. Whoever ends up responsible for the seven kingdoms, one of them
will be wanting a say in your crimes against the crown. Good day, Lord Baelish, Ned said curtly.
The rest of them left as Baelish kept protesting his innocence. Sansa held tightly to Sandor as they
ascended the steps to the courtyard.
Sandor spared a glance at one of the cells closer to the entrance of the dungeon. Theon sat there in
deep meditation, nearly naked. He looked better than expected, considering he had been a prisoner
for a while now. The septon had been visiting him regularly, and he looked like he was at peace. I
suppose the gods can help after all.

Chapter End Notes

Spot on, AzraelGFG! :D You guessed the intrigue!

Sadly, Lothor is not so nice a guy in this one. Maybe he'll be converted to the ways
of the North while he spends some time in Winterfell's dungeon. Seems to have
worked wonders for Theon. And Harry...he's not as much of a dick. I like to think
this is because he knows Sandor will beat him to within an inch of his life if he makes
a wrong move. :D
Ages (More or less)
Ned - 41 Sansa - 18 Jaime - 39
Catelyn - 40 Arya - 16 Sandor - 34
Gendry - 22
Robb - 21 Bran - 15 Theon - 26
Jon - 21 Rickon - 9 Brienne - 24

Two Hearts Become One

Chapter Notes

Pairs with ch 6 of Companion.

See the end of the chapter for more notes

I know you dont hold to any gods in particular, Ned said, but Cat really wanted to have a
ceremony in the sept. Sansa preferred the godswood, but my wife was most insistent on it. He
shook his head as they watched servants go to and fro with decorations across the yard. Sansa was
insisting on getting married on her nameday. Sandor found it curious, but didnt mind.
As long as Sansa is happy, I dont care where I say my vows to her. They had been sparring,
trying to get Ned back to fighting health. His stamina and strength had vastly improved since his
return, though he still needed semi-frequent breaks.
When Cat first spoke of Sansa marrying you, I thought maybe she had gone a little insane. He
chuckled, Not because it was to you, but because it was Catelyn who was suggesting it. I had
just suggested you as the new lord of the Dreadfort, and was about to suggest that you would be
able to ask for Sansas hand when she said it instead. I knew she had gotten past her prejudices
towards you, but it was still unexpected. Im glad though. You helped me study and learn to be
Lord of Winterfell when Brandon died, and Sansa has been studying with me for a while now, so
I have every expectation that you will do well as the Lord and Lady of the Dreadfort. Ah, though,
if youd like to change the name, I dont think anyone would mind. Dreadfort is so...dreadful.
I talked it over with Sansa, actually. During my visit, I worked with the people there, and we
completely gutted the castle and the grounds, removing as much of the Bolton influence as
possible. They continued the work after I left. Sansa wants to change the name, the colors,
everything we can, in order to give them and ourselves a new, fresh start. Sandor remembered
the incredibly long letters Sansa had sent to him, requiring riders to deliver them instead of ravens
for a few of them. She has some good ideas about it. We finally decided on grey and yellow.
Grey to honor her Stark heritage, and yellow to acknowledge mine. Our sigil will be a wolf and a
dog in unity. Our new name will be Stargane. We both agreed that Clegark may be too close to
Clegane, and sounds a bit silly. Autumn Hill will be the new name for the castle.
House Stargane of the Autumn Hill. I like it. A branch house then? Ned asked. Sandor nodded.
Cat will approve.
Sandor chuckled. High praise then.
**********
Clegane Sandor...may I speak with you? Catelyn asked.
Sandor nodded. He was sitting at a table in the empty dining hall, writing more letters. He had half
hoped Sansa would find him again, but Catelyn looked like she wanted to say something.
I...I want to apologize. For the upset I caused over the betrothal. I have already spoken to Sansa
and apologized to her. I really did believe it was the right thing to do, but as Ned pointed out, it
was completely unnecessary. Ive spent so much time as Lady Stark, I forgot to be a mother at

times, and my little girls have grown up without me even realizing it. You, on the other hand, have
been there for them their entire lives, and as Sansas shield, you have had the extraordinary
opportunity to know her better than anyone else. I should have deferred to your knowledge of her,
instead of relying on my expectations. Shes a much more level headed person thanks to you, and
I do not worry about her as much when I know she is with you. What Im trying to say is that it
took me a very long time, but I realize now that you are the best match for her. You always have
been, as her friend, as her protector, and now as her husband. I can only hope that my other
children are as lucky as you and Sansa have been to find each other.
Sandor caught a glimpse of Arya walking with Gendry and wondered if a kings bastard would be
acceptable to Catelyn. Arya kept her feelings hidden well, but one look at Gendry and it was easy
to see the man was hopelessly in love.
I hope we will be able to go forward in life as allies, even friends, Catelyn said.
I know Sansa would like that, Sandor said with a half smile.
**********
The wedding took place an hour before sunset, when the sept was backlit by the descending sun.
Sandor stood next to the septon, waiting anxiously for the doors to open. His new tunic and
breeches felt suffocating, though they had fit perfectly just an hour ago. Jory, Brienne, Syrio and
Osha stood on his side of the sept. Two brothers, two sisters. Couldnt ask for better. Lee,
wherever you are, I hope you can see this, I hope you can hear me. I found the one woman able
to accept me the way I am, just like you hoped, the one woman who looks past the surface and
sees the man beneath. She loved your gift, by the way. Said it was like a story, to receive a
wedding gift from a long lost relative. Harrold Hardyng stood behind them, in support of the
marriage and to show his remorse for trying to stop it. Ser Rodrick stood next to him, keeping an
eye on the young knight, but Sandor didnt believe Hardyng would try anything.
His attention was drawn to the opening doors. Ned led Sansa in. Everything else fell away as soon
as Sandor saw her. She was breathtaking in her deep grey gown. Her hair was held back in braids
formed into a crown, the rest of her locks cascading down her back in waves of auburn red.
Breathe, my love, she whispered to him as Ned handed her off to Sandor. Would not do for the
groom to faint when he sees his bride. He let go of the breath he hadnt realized he was holding
and attempted to breath normally.
The ceremony was a blur for him. He said the correct words, if Sansas bright smile was any
indication, but he was damned if he remembered the details. The cloak Sansa had made for him to
wear with their new sigil was wrapped around her shoulders soon enough, marking the end of the
ceremony.
They exited the sept, their family and friends following them towards the main hall where the
reception would be. He was surprised when Sansa pulled him into a detour. The revelry of the
wedding guests was loud and rambunctious enough that they were able to slip away easily. He
thought Arya might have noticed them, but she directed attention to herself and Gendry instead of
the bride and groom.
He soon found himself in the godswood. Little bird, what are we doing here?
She stood before the weirwood. When I was little, truly a little bird, all I knew was the great
strong arms of my protector, his towering height, the sheer ferocity of his will, yet also, I knew his
gentle face. The face I have loved since...well, forever, really. She turned to him. Sandor, I
know I am young, and I will make mistakes, but I vow to be the best wife I can be to you, and

continue to love you and support you until my dying day. You may think you were given me as a
gift, but I say that it is you who is the gift to me. You have been my best friend for so long, and
now you are my husband. I never thought I could be this lucky, this happy.
She turned back to the tree, her gaze wistful as she remembered the past. When I was five or
maybe six, Mother told me I could never marry you. Do you remember? I ran to you in the
training yard and you tried to comfort me as best you could, never knowing what was bothering
me. Mother took me away not long after. About a month later, you and Arya were still worried
about me, and I realized that there was no way I could ever keep away from you. That night, I
slipped away to here, and I prayed to the old gods. I asked them to find a way to let me stay by
your side, no matter what happened. She touched her hand to the red face of the tree. I swore
that I would remain observant of the old ways as long as I could stay with you. Thats why I
wanted to have our wedding here, but Mother is Mother. Do you know why I wanted to marry on
my nameday? He shook his head. Because it was the day I met you. When I had believed it was
an impossible dream, I would tell myself, if it should ever come true, I wanted to marry you on the
anniversary of the day we met. Then I found out I met you the day I was born. She held her hand
out to him. Please, humor me, my love. Let us say our vows once more, where the old gods may
see us.
He took her hand and stood with her in front of the huge tree. If the old gods had indeed answered
her prayers, he was more beholden to them than he could even begin to repay. This ceremony was
much quicker, and he remembered more of it, but mostly he remembered how lovely Sansa
looked in the moonlight and how peaceful the godswood was as a gentle wind rustled through the
leaves, almost sounding like a quiet cheer.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Ned - 42 Sansa - 19 Jaime - 40
Catelyn - 41 Arya - 17 Sandor - 35
Gendry - 23
Robb - 22 Bran - 16 Theon - 27
Jon - 22 Rickon - 10 Brienne - 25

The Queen's Summit

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

The dragon queen was impressive, arriving on the back of a giant black and red dragon. Sandor
and Sansa had spent the past three and a half months at Autumn Hill, returning in time to greet the
High Queen. Since they were now bannermen of the Starks, Lord and Lady Stargane sat farther
down the table then the rest of the family, but close enough to see the exotic beauty that now ruled
over all of Westeros. Sandor was amused by how starstruck Sansa became when she saw the lost
Targaryen. Queen Daenerys greeted all of the main and minor houses personally, spending an
hour or so talking to each, a process that took nearly a fortnight. Sandor had never realized how
many highborns there were in Westeros, and then there were the smallfolk to consider. He
recognized the many banners, some of the representatives met his expectations, some did not. The
Red Viper was everything Sandor expected, and he growled at the man when the Dornishman
flirted with both himself and Sansa. He still had mixed feelings on this man who killed Gregor, but
he was most decided on the feelings of protectiveness when the flirtation started. Sansa gave the
man a gentle, yet icy smile, warning him in her own way to stay away from her husband.
The queen announced the results of her extremely long talk with Stannis. Stannis Baratheon
would marry her, joining the Targaryen and Baratheon houses, and become her King Consort.
Lady Selyse had died from illness while at the Wall, leaving Stannis a widower. His daughter
Shireen was quite taken with her soon to be goodmother, and was often seen at Queen Daenerys
side. Rickon and Sweetrobin were both very taken with Lady Shireen as well, and when Shireen
wasnt with the queen, the two boys were following her around. Margaery would become Queen
Minor, and her son by Robert, Garth Baratheon, was named heir. Stannis was also the consort of
Margaery, and any children between them would princes and princesses. The Baratheon line had
Targaryen blood, which was part of why Robert had been able to rule as king, and Daenerys had
made peace with the current Baratheons. She had stated that if they could forgive her for her
father's crimes, then she could forgive them for Robert's. There were rumors that the two queens
preferred each others company to Stannis, but he preferred the company of his former Hand and
now the queens Master of Ships, Davos Seaworth, and was not bothered by it. Sandor wished
them all the best, no matter whose company they preferred.
The most surprising thing about the queens visit had nothing to do with the queen at all. It was
with people who came with her. Bran, Jojen, Meera and Benjen rode with her back to Winterfell,
with Hodor dutifully carrying Bran. Along with the Nightwatch, they had been instrumental to
keeping the wintery undead from having a place to retreat to as the Queen and her dragons
flanked them on one side, and the armies of Stannis flanked them on the third side. Benjen had
been found by Meera, his memories gone, surviving on what little he could find in the deep
northern woods. They had bonded, it seemed, if the looks between them were any indication.
Benjen had since recovered his memories before returning to Winterfell, thankfully.
Catelyn refused to let go of Bran, even when he complained of being suffocated. Serves you
right for running off like that, everyone heard her mutter. She welcomed back the Reed siblings
and thanked them profusely for protecting her son. Ned hugged Benjen nearly as hard as Benjen
hugged Ned. Sandor only felt a slight squeezing of his heart at that sight. He wondered what his
life might have been like if Gregor hadnt been such a monster and had been his friend instead, but
he only had to feel Sansa squeezing his hand to dismiss the thought. It did no good to dwell on
what might have been, and if Gregor hadnt been a monster, Sandor might have likely never left
Clegane Keep and never met Sansa, his soulmate. Their time together as charge and shield, and
now as husband and wife, had proven it to him beyond a doubt. Even if they hadnt married, he

couldnt imagine his life without her.

The Iron Islands civil war had ended and a new king had emerged, Euron Greyjoy. Victarion,
his younger brother, had been sent to court Daenerys in Eurons name, but Victarion now stood at
the Greater Queens side as an ally. Euron had declined attending the Queens Summit, a decision
he soon regretted. Tyrion, Hand of the Queen, and his wife, a Lorathi woman named Shae, had
been sent on the back of Rhaegal, the green dragon, to escort the Iron King to meet with the
Queen. The mans journey in the grip of the green dragons claws left him shaken, to say the least.
He quickly bent a knee to the Queen, and swore to never rebel against her again. Cersei was also
notably absent from the preceedings, but Tyrion had assured the Stark clan that she would be dealt
with in due time.
Sandor was surprised to hear that Catelyn was with child. Sansa had been excited for her parents,
but was also a bit saddened, because she had yet to miss her moonblood, despite daily couplings
with Sandor. He held her close and reminded her that once they started having children, their
alone time would be considerably decreased. She told him that even their offspring wouldn't keep
her from him, which made him laugh.
Robb and Jeyne were expecting another child already. Neddy was growing like a weed. He
favored neither his mother nor his father in his looks, and was an equal mix of the two of them.
Ned was training Robb to someday take over the role of Warden of the North. While he had been
acting-Warden, Robb had really done little in the way of actual wardening, which had been left up
to Bran, then Sansa, and back to Ned again.
Lord Commander Snow was legitimized to become Jon Targaryen. Daenerys had pleaded with
him to join her side, but his honor demanded that he remain with the Nights Watch. Now, in front
of all of Westeros, she declared him her kin, her nephew, Lord Commander Targaryen, the first
line of defense against the things that go bump in the winter. There had been rumors of Jons
death at the hands of some members of the Nights Watch, but clearly, that was just a rumor.
Viserion, the white dragon, had taken a liking to Jon and to Ghost. He was to stay on the Wall as
a member of the Nights Watch, and had already started building a nest next to Castle Black. It
was interesting to see a giant white dragon snuggle around a white direwolf.
Theon petitioned Ned to be given to the brothers on the Quiet Isle. After much consideration, Ned
and Robb decided to grant it. A visiting septon named Meribald offered to guide Theon there.
Arya announced that she would be marrying Gendry, and made a request to the Queen that he be
legitimized. Catelyn protested it, but Arya told her that she already had one daughter married to a
high lord, she didnt necessarily need another, now that peace was upon them, and that she and
Gendry were going to travel to the Free Cities and couldnt possibly be bogged down with the
responsibilities of lords and ladies. And, she added, Ive already given him my maidenhead, so
really, its the honorable thing for me to do. Catelyn just about fainted at that. Daenerys found
Arya quite amusing, and granted the request, making Gendry an official Baratheon.
Bran was ready to travel, too. He and Jojen had decided to go explore the world together, past the
Free Cities and into the uncharted territory. Hodor would go with them, as well as a few
household guards. Catelyn tried to argue with that, but Ned said it would be good for him. Bran
and Arya decided to travel together, at least until they got to Braavos, and then would discuss it
more there. Once he returned, he would become Lord of the Twins, and bannerman to his uncle,
Lord Edmure Tully. Brynden would rule in his stead until that time.
Rickon decided he wanted to stay with Shireen. Catelyn put her foot down on that one, telling him
under no circumstance would he be allowed to leave for the capital when he was only ten years
old. Shireen, who had grown fond of Rickon, offered to ask her father if she could stay at
Winterfell for a while. She loved the snow and was interested in learning more about the North.

She had also grown fond of Sansa and wanted to be able to visit with her more readily. Rickon
immediately offered to be her escort whenever she wanted to travel to the Autumn Hill. Catelyn
shook her head, but said that if King Stannis allowed it, she would not argue. Upon hearing this,
Robert Sweetrobin asked if he could stay as well. The lords that watched over him, Lord Royce
and Lady Waynewood specifically, said that it would be good for him, that he could learn from a
fellow Warden. Harrold Hardyng had accompanied Lady Waynewood to the Summit. He had
given the Starganes warm greetings, but had kept his distance for the most part.
The Summit ended, most of the nobles bent the knee when first asked. The Starks and Starganes
were no exception. The ones that didnt were given extra time to speak to the Queen on why.
Most of those pledged their loyalty after, but the few who didnt were not killed outright. They
were told they would have a year to see how Daenerys did as Queen, and then would be asked
again. The three houses in question were minor, names Sandor hadnt even heard of, and he
suspected they were waiting to see if anyone would overthrow the Queen. He also suspected that
they would be bending the knee in a years time.
Before leaving to Kings Landing, the Queen decided she would deal with Petyr Baelish herself.
Sandor was not privy to the conversation between them, but Ned, Tyrion Lannister, and Lord
Royce sat with her as Littlefucker spoke his piece. Varys stood in the shadows, as always. He was
also a part of the Queens court, remaining the Master of Whispers as he had done for every king
since her grandfather ruled. Only the Queen asked questions, from what Sandor understood.
Baelish was given a death sentence at the end of it. He was smirking the entire time, until about
ten seconds before Neds blade sliced through his neck, when a man named Lyn Corbray was
taken into custody by Lord Royce.
Jaime and Brienne married, much to everyones delight. They were going to travel to see
Briennes father. Jaime had renounced his claim to Casterly Rock, and asked the queen that his
nephew Tommen be officially named the heir. "He's a good boy, and without their mother around,
he and Myrcella have been doing well there. They have been writing me as often as they can, ever
since I was given my freedom by the good Lord Stark. I have every confidence in them."
Tommen and Myrcella were present as representatives of the Lannister family. The queen had met
with them in the long parade of nobles, and granted the request as she had been quite impressed
with both of the Lannisters.
Sandor and Sansa returned to Autumn Hill after a very laborious goodbye with Catelyn, who
promised to come visit soon, before her pregnancy became too much for traveling. Not too soon, I
hope. He and Sansa were still enjoying being newlyweds, and he rather preferred not having his
goodmother around. She had either awful or excellent timing, depending on your point of view.
They heard much later on about the queens arrival in the capital. Cersei had tried to launch an
attack, but it was difficult when your opponent was riding a giant dragon. There was no
bloodshed, and the smallfolk had welcomed the queen with open arms. The rule of Cersei had
been crushing, and anyone was better by that point. The Unsullied she brought with her had put
down the Faith Militant, who had been terrorizing the people left in King's Landing with their
strict religious laws, and helped restore order to the city. There had been a lot of bloodshed in that
part, but it was said that the Unsullied had orders to only kill if there was no other option. Sandor
had a good feeling about this queen.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Ned - 42 Sansa - 19 Jaime - 40

Catelyn - 41 Arya - 17 Sandor - 35
Gendry - 23
Robb - 22 Bran - 16 Theon - 27
Jon - 22 Rickon - 10 Brienne - 25
In other news, is anyone signing up for GISHWHES? I heard that registration opened
up.

Epilogue: 10 Years Later

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Fader.
Sandor grunted, still mostly asleep. He had barely fallen into bed an hour ago.
Faaaaa-deeeerrrrrr.
Another grunt. He heard a huff and then a shuffling of feet that went to the other side of the bed.
Mudddddeeeeeerrrrrr The little voice was much more sad and pathetic as the boy complained
to Sansa. She pampered him way too much in Sandors opinion. He was her youngest at three
years old. Their eldest son Ben was nine, their daughter Millicent was eight, and the twins Lyanna
and Edina were four.
Sandor groaned. Get back over here, pup. Mother needs her rest. He had kept her up more than
half the night celebrating ten years of marriage. More shuffling of feet and the black haired, blue
eyed boy was soon crawling under the covers to snuggle up to Sandors side. Why cant you
sleep this time? he asked his youngest child, Alesander, affectionately called Zan by the family.
Unt Aya tole astory bout da sha-does en da wawk-kers, the little boy said mournfully.
What did I tell you about listening to your aunts stories?
Ta not do it, he answered. His lip was protruding in a very sad pout. He reminded Sandor of
Sansa when he did that.
Aunt Arya promised to not tell you anymore stories. Did she break her promise?
The boy fidgeted. No
How did you hear the story then? Sandor already had an inkling, but waited for Zan to admit
the truth.
I lissen when Unty tole Milly en Tora. Millicent or Milly, and her cousin, Thora, were as much
hellions as their uncles Robb and Jon were when they were younger, though Milly and Thora had
yet to outgrow it, much like Arya.
Now you know better, dont you? He felt the boy nod against his chest. Good.
**********
It was a rare day off, and Sansa worked frantically to get a picnic ready for them to take on their
ride. The children were enthralled by Aunt Arya and Uncle Gendrys stories of their time
travelling the world. Gendry had learned many new techniques for metalworking that he was
eager to share with the Autumn Hill smiths. Arya had studied various fighting techniques and had
already shown them to Sandor. He had been impressed, and while he wanted to hear and learn
more, he was also looking forward to some time away from his children. He loved them to pieces,
but if he didnt get some quality alone time with Sansa, he was fairly certain he was going to go
mad. He had grown to understand one of the many reasons Ned didnt back down from Catelyns
demands to remove Sandor all those years ago was because he effectively gave Ned more alone

time with Catelyn. Their children had happily waved their parents off before running after their
favorite of their mothers siblings.
Stranger and Jonquil rode at an easy pace towards the nearby river. It was a favorite spot of
Sansas, and Sandor was convinced that Zan was conceived there, considering the amount of
times Sansa had pushed him down onto the blanket and ridden him to her hearts (and his cocks)
content when they first discovered the place. Nine months later, Zan was born. Sansa just shushed
him when he mentioned it, but she would still blush prettily and kiss him warmly as she
remembered.
They were well into eating their lunch when Sansa brought up a topic Sandor had been avoiding.
Milly asked again.
Shes too young.
Sansa rolled her eyes. Shes eight, same age as you. Same age as my father when he was sent to
be fostered. Sandor grunted, making Sansa laugh. She really wants to do this, and the Lannisters
of Tarth are good people. They love Milly and their children love Milly. Osha and Maryen will
accompany her. Osha had shown up at Autumn Hill when Sansa was first pregnant with Milly,
with a five-month-old baby on her hip, and had become wet nurse and then friend to their
daughter. Her own daughter, Maryen, was as sweet as Osha was brash, and was Millys best
friend and maid. When he asked her who the father of Maryen was, she had said he was the best
fuck she had ever had, and she hoped to be able to convince him to come to Autumn Hill the next
time she went to Winterfell. Sandor wasnt sure what to think when she brought Hodor back with
her.
I dont like it, he said. Sansa patted his arm and pulled him into a side hug, resting her chin on
his shoulder. Everyone in Autumn Hill and Winterfell knew Milly was the apple of her fathers
eye. The two were nearly as close as Lord and Lady Stargane.
I know, I know, but it would be good for her. You were ready to send Ben off, if he had wanted
to go, which Im a little glad he didnt. And it would give us more reason to visit Tarth. Briennes
been asking me for a few months. And Mother would go visit her in Tarth as well, so she would
be here less often. That thought was tempting, and he knew thats why she mentioned it. Catelyn
was so accepting of Sandor these days, he sometimes missed when she hated him. His
goodmother meant well, but she was overwhelming at times. The only consolation of her visits
was that she would bring Sansa's youngest sister Cynda to play with Ben and Milly, and Ned
would come along when he could to go hunting with Sandor.
Shouldve asked for the Twins instead of Autumn Hill, he muttered. Sansa laughed and kissed
her husband.
Sandor sighed heavily. Their daughter had Sandors hair, eyes and strength, but looked more like
Sansa in every other aspect. How about we give her one year? Just one. If you still have
reservations, well bring her back home.
He kept silent.
Sansa stroked his cheek. "What are our house words, my love?"
"Together We Stand." It had been his idea, and he was rather proud of it.
"How will Milly learn to honor our house words if she is not allowed to stand on her own for a
while, to explore this world and learn new things?"

Sandor sighed again and lay back onto the blanket. Sansa nestled at his side. The clouds were
floating lazily by as he watched them. One year. Exactly one year.
Sansa kissed his ruined cheek. Shell scream with excitement when she hears and give you the
biggest hug.
Sandor merely grunted. Sansa laughed and sat up. What are you doing, wife?
She gave him a coy smile and reached for the laces on his breeches. You are overdressed, my
lord. I am going to unburden you.
Fucking hells, I married a lusty woman, he said, but he was grinning.
Only for you, my love. Only for you," she said.

Chapter End Notes

Ages (More or less)

Ned - 52
Catelyn 51
Robb - 32
Jon - 32

Sansa 29
Arya - 27
Bran - 26
Rickon 20
Cynda 10

Jaime - 50
Sandor 45
Theon 37
Brienne 35
Gendry 33
Osha - ??
Maryen 8

Robb & Jeyne's children:

Eddard Stark II - 12
Theo Stark - 11
Benjin Stargane - 9 Arya & Gendry's child:
Millicent Stargane - Thora Baratheon - 7
8
Lyanna Stargane Rickon & Shireen's
4
children:
Edina Stargane - 4
Alys - 3
Alesander Stargane
Bartal - 2
-3
Brienne & Jaime's
children:
Lukas - 10
Stella - 8

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