Argus
As Argus walked in from the southern gates of Winterfell he felt overwhelmed by the sight. There was something mystic and intriguin… moreg about this castle – it had been built thousands of years ago by the First Men.
“Bran the Builder built this.” Alistair said as if he knew what Argus was thinking.
“So the legends say.” Emilio Rivers answered quietly. “And you sound tired my friend, I hope you didn’t drink too much last night.” The skinny young man added with a smirk and Alistair just shook his head.
“No, it’s not just a legend.” He insisted. “Bran the Builder lived during the Age of Heroes. He is the founder of the House Stark, builder of Winterfell and the Wall.” Emilio shrugged with a small smile on his face as they walked to the court yard that was filled with dozens of soldiers.
“Let’s just get to Lord Stark.” Argus said quietly – he had to admit that his head was mildly in pain because of the drinking last night. I shou… [view original content]
Argus
As Argus walked in from the southern gates of Winterfell he felt overwhelmed by the sight. There was something mystic and intriguin… moreg about this castle – it had been built thousands of years ago by the First Men.
“Bran the Builder built this.” Alistair said as if he knew what Argus was thinking.
“So the legends say.” Emilio Rivers answered quietly. “And you sound tired my friend, I hope you didn’t drink too much last night.” The skinny young man added with a smirk and Alistair just shook his head.
“No, it’s not just a legend.” He insisted. “Bran the Builder lived during the Age of Heroes. He is the founder of the House Stark, builder of Winterfell and the Wall.” Emilio shrugged with a small smile on his face as they walked to the court yard that was filled with dozens of soldiers.
“Let’s just get to Lord Stark.” Argus said quietly – he had to admit that his head was mildly in pain because of the drinking last night. I shou… [view original content]
Argus
As Argus walked in from the southern gates of Winterfell he felt overwhelmed by the sight. There was something mystic and intriguin… moreg about this castle – it had been built thousands of years ago by the First Men.
“Bran the Builder built this.” Alistair said as if he knew what Argus was thinking.
“So the legends say.” Emilio Rivers answered quietly. “And you sound tired my friend, I hope you didn’t drink too much last night.” The skinny young man added with a smirk and Alistair just shook his head.
“No, it’s not just a legend.” He insisted. “Bran the Builder lived during the Age of Heroes. He is the founder of the House Stark, builder of Winterfell and the Wall.” Emilio shrugged with a small smile on his face as they walked to the court yard that was filled with dozens of soldiers.
“Let’s just get to Lord Stark.” Argus said quietly – he had to admit that his head was mildly in pain because of the drinking last night. I shou… [view original content]
Argus
As Argus walked in from the southern gates of Winterfell he felt overwhelmed by the sight. There was something mystic and intriguin… moreg about this castle – it had been built thousands of years ago by the First Men.
“Bran the Builder built this.” Alistair said as if he knew what Argus was thinking.
“So the legends say.” Emilio Rivers answered quietly. “And you sound tired my friend, I hope you didn’t drink too much last night.” The skinny young man added with a smirk and Alistair just shook his head.
“No, it’s not just a legend.” He insisted. “Bran the Builder lived during the Age of Heroes. He is the founder of the House Stark, builder of Winterfell and the Wall.” Emilio shrugged with a small smile on his face as they walked to the court yard that was filled with dozens of soldiers.
“Let’s just get to Lord Stark.” Argus said quietly – he had to admit that his head was mildly in pain because of the drinking last night. I shou… [view original content]
Argus, with his companies, will join Lord Bolton's army and head towards Wolfswood. I'm very excited in writing this storyline - actually I was hyped for both options (Bolton&Crowl) so ofc I am also a little sad about the Skagosi getting less "screentime" now. But as said I'm also hyped for Boltons and Wolfswood
And in this option Argus&co. will stay a little longer in Winterfell so expect a couple more Starks to be introduced in the next Argus parts.
What comes to the next part I am not 100% sure yet who will it be. Most likely it will be Robett, Edric or a certain new PoV from Eastwatch. And it might take a while since I haven't written today at all and tomorrow might also be pretty busy.
Vote closed!
Argus, with his companies, will join Lord Bolton's army and head towards Wolfswood. I'm very excited in writing this storyli… morene - actually I was hyped for both options (Bolton&Crowl) so ofc I am also a little sad about the Skagosi getting less "screentime" now. But as said I'm also hyped for Boltons and Wolfswood
And in this option Argus&co. will stay a little longer in Winterfell so expect a couple more Starks to be introduced in the next Argus parts.
What comes to the next part I am not 100% sure yet who will it be. Most likely it will be Robett, Edric or a certain new PoV from Eastwatch. And it might take a while since I haven't written today at all and tomorrow might also be pretty busy.
”Tarna.” The girl said quietly as Jolly Jack asked her name for the third time. Jack let out a sigh. They were at the same village where Keran had sent Edric back to Castle Black with Ramsay. Edric Mormont, Jack Musgood and George Rivers stood in a cold and dark cottage questioning the young girl that Keran had took with him as he had continued his search for Raymun Redbeard.
”See? It wasn't that hard.” The Lord Commander muttered with a tired tone, making the wildling girl frown.
”So, Edric, are you sure this is the one Keran took with him?” George Rivers - the First Ranger and a sturdy man on his early thirties – asked, and Edric nodded lazily.
”As I have said several times – this is the girl.” Edric answered, and he could see the anger in the stare that the girl gave him, but he didn't care. I have no symphaty for any of these savages.
”Is this true, Tarna?” Jack asked the girl with a kind tone. ”We are looking for Keran and Rambton, we need to know what happened.” Now the girl's expression turned sad, and she lowered her gaze to the ground. Edric could see the concern in Jack's eyes. Edric wasn't sure what to think about this whole mission. Keran was a good man, but he made a mistake – and now he is most likely dead. And when it came to Rambton, Edric couldn't care less.
”They were captured.” The girl muttered. ”By Harron Crowsbane.”
”I've heard of him.” George said with a serious tone. ”A bloody arse.” The girl gave George a glare, but the Jolly Jack spoke up again.
”And what happened then?”
”They were given a choice.” Tarna started with her voice shaking. For a while she was quiet, looking at them with fear in her eyes, perhaps expecting them to be mad at her of what she would tell, but then she finally decided to continue. ”A choice between freedom or judgement.” Jack closed his eyes in despair as he heard this. It wasn't hard to guess the rest of the story.
”So are they both dead now?” George asked with toneless words. The girl shook her head meekly.
”The other one, Rambton, he was injured, but he decided to join Harron rather than die.” The girl spoke quickly. ”They headed north, towards the lands of the Hornfoots.”
”Traitor.” George muttered with disbelief in his eyes. Edric wasn't really surprised – of course Rambton Snow wouldn't have died for his vows. Jack stayed silent, gazing at the ground with anger and frustration in his eyes. George shifted his attention to Edric.
”You can leave now, Edric.” He said sternly, and Edric had no choice but to obey. Silently he stepped out of the cottage to the rain and saw the other rangers eagerly waiting for him. Of course, they want to hear what happens next.
”So, boy, what did the girl say?” Khort asked with his commanding voice. Khort was an annoying man on his late thirties, seeing all the younger rangers as his lackies.
”He said that Harron Crowsbane captured Keran and Rambton.” Edric answered tonelessly. ”Keran is dead, but Rambton apparently joined the wildlings to stay alive.”
”What the fuck? That fucking bastard joined the wildlings?” Khort had rage in his eyes as he spoke. Wulfric Ironsteed let out a sarcastic laugh for Khort's words and shook his head. Wulfric was a handsome and tall man on his late twenties, and he was one of the best rangers of Castle Black.
”What did you expect, old man? Besides, that certainly is the wise thing to do – survive and when the moment comes escape back to the Wall.” Wulfric spoke with confident words and a small grin on his face.
”And you really think Rambton fucking Snow is ever going to come back?” Khort asked with his angry tone and shook his head furiously.
”I believe he will.” Victor, a kind young man on his early twneties, answered, but Khort just shook his head again.
”I think I have to agree with Khort on this one.” Ser Jaremy Brownbarrow – a talented young knight who had once served Lord Manderly – said with a sigh. ”I don't believe we'll ever see Rambton wearing a black cloak again.”
”So Keran is dead and the bastard has joined the wildlings... Mormont, did Jolly Jack say what are we going to do now?” Khort asked, shifting his stern gaze back at Edric again. Edric shrugged.
”Apparently Jack and George are deciding it right now.” He answered and Khort grunted angrily.
”If you ask me we should go and find the bastard, so we can cut his fucking head off!” Khort bellowed, making Wulfric roll his eyes.
”Oh yes, when one of us gets captured by the wildlings the right thing to do is to go and kill him.” Wulfric said with his sarcastic tone.
”We should go after him.” Victor said quietly. ”Not to kill him, but to save him.” Of course Khort didn't agree with this and made it quite clear, whereas Wulfric just laughed at Khort's raging. Edric stayed out of the arguing, he wasn't sure what to think about this. He had never seen Rambton as a friend, or even respected him. And it could be said that Rambton had broken his vows, but at the same time it might have been the right decision in that moment.
”Just calm down.” Ser Jaremy said with tired tone. ”Maybe we shouldn't go after him at all. Keran made the mistake of going too deep into the lands of the wildlings, perhaps we should prevent ourselves from doing that.”
”Fucking coward!” Khort boasted and spat to the ground, making the young knight sigh.
”It would mean abandoning our brother!” Victor said with baffled expression on his face. ”We can't do that... Edric, you agree with me, right?” Victor looked at Edric, who was a little surprised about this question. I'm not sure who do I agree with. Khort was right about Rambton breaking his vows. Victor was also right, returning to Castle Black would be abandoning a brother who has been captured. And on the other hand Jaremy was right as well, going too far to the north would be a huge risk.
[Agree with Khort][Agree with Victor][Agree with Ser Jaremy][Say that you have no opinion]
Edric
”Tarna.” The girl said quietly as Jolly Jack asked her name for the third time. Jack let out a sigh. They were at the same village … morewhere Keran had sent Edric back to Castle Black with Ramsay. Edric Mormont, Jack Musgood and George Rivers stood in a cold and dark cottage questioning the young girl that Keran had took with him as he had continued his search for Raymun Redbeard.
”See? It wasn't that hard.” The Lord Commander muttered with a tired tone, making the wildling girl frown.
”So, Edric, are you sure this is the one Keran took with him?” George Rivers - the First Ranger and a sturdy man on his early thirties – asked, and Edric nodded lazily.
”As I have said several times – this is the girl.” Edric answered, and he could see the anger in the stare that the girl gave him, but he didn't care. I have no symphaty for any of these savages.
”Is this true, Tarna?” Jack asked the girl with a kind tone. ”We are looking for Ker… [view original content]
Simply because I somehow support all three opinions and really don't know what to pick. I don't like Rambton, so I wouldn't mind Khort's plan. On the other hand, I am not sure if I want to see him dead just because I dislike him, so Victor's plan sounds similarly appealing. And finally, considering the situation at Castle Black, it couldn't be bad if they return.
Edric
”Tarna.” The girl said quietly as Jolly Jack asked her name for the third time. Jack let out a sigh. They were at the same village … morewhere Keran had sent Edric back to Castle Black with Ramsay. Edric Mormont, Jack Musgood and George Rivers stood in a cold and dark cottage questioning the young girl that Keran had took with him as he had continued his search for Raymun Redbeard.
”See? It wasn't that hard.” The Lord Commander muttered with a tired tone, making the wildling girl frown.
”So, Edric, are you sure this is the one Keran took with him?” George Rivers - the First Ranger and a sturdy man on his early thirties – asked, and Edric nodded lazily.
”As I have said several times – this is the girl.” Edric answered, and he could see the anger in the stare that the girl gave him, but he didn't care. I have no symphaty for any of these savages.
”Is this true, Tarna?” Jack asked the girl with a kind tone. ”We are looking for Ker… [view original content]
Sure, it doesn't help the situation at hand but currently everyone is right. Jon Snow was with the Wildlings but he came back to the wall (not that I can see Rambton coming back). If he doesn't come back then he needs to pay in justice, though I don't think a small bunch of rangers charging into a supposed army is a smart idea.
Edric
”Tarna.” The girl said quietly as Jolly Jack asked her name for the third time. Jack let out a sigh. They were at the same village … morewhere Keran had sent Edric back to Castle Black with Ramsay. Edric Mormont, Jack Musgood and George Rivers stood in a cold and dark cottage questioning the young girl that Keran had took with him as he had continued his search for Raymun Redbeard.
”See? It wasn't that hard.” The Lord Commander muttered with a tired tone, making the wildling girl frown.
”So, Edric, are you sure this is the one Keran took with him?” George Rivers - the First Ranger and a sturdy man on his early thirties – asked, and Edric nodded lazily.
”As I have said several times – this is the girl.” Edric answered, and he could see the anger in the stare that the girl gave him, but he didn't care. I have no symphaty for any of these savages.
”Is this true, Tarna?” Jack asked the girl with a kind tone. ”We are looking for Ker… [view original content]
Edric
”Tarna.” The girl said quietly as Jolly Jack asked her name for the third time. Jack let out a sigh. They were at the same village … morewhere Keran had sent Edric back to Castle Black with Ramsay. Edric Mormont, Jack Musgood and George Rivers stood in a cold and dark cottage questioning the young girl that Keran had took with him as he had continued his search for Raymun Redbeard.
”See? It wasn't that hard.” The Lord Commander muttered with a tired tone, making the wildling girl frown.
”So, Edric, are you sure this is the one Keran took with him?” George Rivers - the First Ranger and a sturdy man on his early thirties – asked, and Edric nodded lazily.
”As I have said several times – this is the girl.” Edric answered, and he could see the anger in the stare that the girl gave him, but he didn't care. I have no symphaty for any of these savages.
”Is this true, Tarna?” Jack asked the girl with a kind tone. ”We are looking for Ker… [view original content]
Edric
”Tarna.” The girl said quietly as Jolly Jack asked her name for the third time. Jack let out a sigh. They were at the same village … morewhere Keran had sent Edric back to Castle Black with Ramsay. Edric Mormont, Jack Musgood and George Rivers stood in a cold and dark cottage questioning the young girl that Keran had took with him as he had continued his search for Raymun Redbeard.
”See? It wasn't that hard.” The Lord Commander muttered with a tired tone, making the wildling girl frown.
”So, Edric, are you sure this is the one Keran took with him?” George Rivers - the First Ranger and a sturdy man on his early thirties – asked, and Edric nodded lazily.
”As I have said several times – this is the girl.” Edric answered, and he could see the anger in the stare that the girl gave him, but he didn't care. I have no symphaty for any of these savages.
”Is this true, Tarna?” Jack asked the girl with a kind tone. ”We are looking for Ker… [view original content]
Edric
”Tarna.” The girl said quietly as Jolly Jack asked her name for the third time. Jack let out a sigh. They were at the same village … morewhere Keran had sent Edric back to Castle Black with Ramsay. Edric Mormont, Jack Musgood and George Rivers stood in a cold and dark cottage questioning the young girl that Keran had took with him as he had continued his search for Raymun Redbeard.
”See? It wasn't that hard.” The Lord Commander muttered with a tired tone, making the wildling girl frown.
”So, Edric, are you sure this is the one Keran took with him?” George Rivers - the First Ranger and a sturdy man on his early thirties – asked, and Edric nodded lazily.
”As I have said several times – this is the girl.” Edric answered, and he could see the anger in the stare that the girl gave him, but he didn't care. I have no symphaty for any of these savages.
”Is this true, Tarna?” Jack asked the girl with a kind tone. ”We are looking for Ker… [view original content]
Vote closed! Alright, so Edric will say that he has no opinion on the matter. Edric is of course not in any kind of authority on this so he won't be choosing what will they do. However this choice was more about who of the rangers will see Edric as a nice/wise guy and who will think he is wrong/stupid... And obviously the most neutral choice was made So, the effects of this choice to Edric's relationship with any of the other rangers is pretty minimal - not totally nonexistent though!
And the story will continue with a streak of three NW-character's parts. Well the streak is 4 if you count this Edric part. So lot's of brothers in black coming for the next couple parts. Two of them will be new PoVs - the next one is Federico Reed, who has been already briefly introduced, then comes a totally new character who has been mentioned once in the story but not by name. And lastly we'll have Robett's first part of the chapter 3. After that I think we'll go back for some wildling action
Pfff, any new PoV is interesting in my opinion. They show the same story in a different light and shed there impact in a different way. I'm really looking forward to the next few parts
The tavern of the Mole's Town was dark even if the sun was still up – the tavern, like almost everything in Mole's Town, was beneath the ground. Federico closed his eyes for a moment. The next night would be the fourth after the mutiny at Castle Black. Federico Reed sat silently on the corner table and Sawyer Glover sat opposed to him. They were both young boys from noble houses of the North who felt honored to be rangers. And neither of them had ever expected something so disgusting to happen at the Wall that had happened couple days ago.
”I really need some rest.” Sawyer said with tired words, and Federico shared the feeling. Together they had been hunting the deserters around the Gift, and so far they had only found two. Federico assumed the other rangers had found some too. He really hoped they could find them all, but it was a fool's hope.
”The others should come soon. Then we'll see what happens next.” Federico muttered and took a sip from his ale. Sawyer nodded. He was a young man, but Federico could see that he had already experienced a lot in his life. The look on Sawyer's brown eyes was calm and wise and a long scar ran through his face, telling that Sawyer had also seen his share of combat.
After a while the door was opened and three men in black cloaks walked the stairs down to the tavern. They were Kip, Laurence and Gareth Oaketh.
”Bring us some ale!” Kip yelled to the bartender as they walked towards the corner table.
“Wasn't Dennis with you?” Sawyer asked, referring to Dennis Stone, a bastard from House Arryn. “Please don't say the traitors got him.”
“Of course not!” Kip answered with a small smirk on his face. “We found four of them, and Dennis rode to Winterfell to inform the Starks.” Kip was smiling as he spoke, but Gareth and Laurence had more serious expressions on their faces. And for a good reason. The bartender brought ale with a grin look on his face, and Kip started drinking as if he had never drank before.
“The looks on their faces... Some of them begged for mercy.” Laurence spoke quietly, gazing at the table with empty eyes.
“They can beg all they want.” Gareth grunted. “I was at the Flint Barracks that night... Too many good men were killed by these fucking traitors.” For a moment it was silent. We all remember that night only too well.
“So Dennis rides to Winterfell, Howard and the others are still out there. What do we do next?” Federico asked with a serious tone, eyeing his brothers. Kip shrugged and kept drinking.
“Well, some of us must go back to Castle Black... Someone has to keep order there.” Sawyer said with his tired tone. “I trust Ramsay of course, but he is not in a good shape at the moment.”
“I agree.” Gareth answered shortly, and Laurence nodded as well. “And someone should also ride to Last Hearth to inform the Umbers... They should know that there are deserters running around their lands.”
“What about Eastwatch? And Shadow Tower? Shouldn't someone inform them?” Sawyer asked and Gareth nodded to him.
“Howard will go to Eastwatch with his companies.” Gareth explained. “And Shadow Tower... Well I guess one or two of us could go there.”
Before anyone had time to answer the door of the tavern was opened again.
“Go on, bastards! Down you go!” A raspy and commanding voice yelled as an interesting group walked down the stairs to the tavern. First Federico saw four men in chains. One of them was clearly some peasants from the North, perhaps at early thirties – dirty beard and hair and ragged clothes. One was a pale young man, with blue eyes and a nose that looked like it had been broken several times. Then there was a pretty and skinny young boy with green eyes and brown hair, and a stern looking man in a clothes fitting for a noble, with blue eyes and dark brown beard and hair. Behind these chained men were two older men in black cloaks. The other one was bald and had a long grey beard, and the other one had dirty blonde hair and a wrinkled face with missing left eye.
“Jorgan and Croll!” Gareth yelled with cheerful tone. “Isn't it a pleasure to see you two old bastards!”
“Hey, hey!” The bald one yelled. “Watch your words, young man!”
“Oh shut up, Jorgan!” Gareth started to laugh. Slowly Federico started to remember – these were the men who brought Dickon, Bryan and Tom to Castle Black after Federico had just been a week at the Wall.
“We got some new company for you.” The one with the missing eye – apparently Croll – said with stern words and steered the chained men to one of tables near them. “We've got one from the capital – Feather Waters.” Croll pointed at the pretty boy. “A fucking kinslayer. Talking about kinslayers, here we got Bronn Forrester.” Now Croll was pointing at the blue-eyed man with brown beard and hair, who grunted something unintelligeble. “And then there is Rass, who thought it was a good idea to run away from his liege lord's army.” Croll's finger pointed now at the man with ragged clothes. “And finally we have Garran Sharp. An ironborn who chose the Wall rather than death.” The young man turned his look to the floor as Croll spoke of him.
“So what exactly are you doing here?” Jorgan asked, eyeing at all of the rangers with skeptical look on his eyes. Gareth let out a sigh.
“I'm afraid we have some bad news... Very bad news.” Sawyer Glover said with dark look in his eyes. As he told the story of the mutiny to these two old men the memories returned to Federico's head more clearly than ever before – he had to press his lips together to keep himself from cursing those traitors to all the hells there were.
“If what you say is true then you must return to Castle Black.” Jorgan said with serious tone. “We need every man to keep order in situation like this.”
“You are right.” Gareth answered. “But there are also couple other things to take care of. Myself I will ride to Last Hearth, the Umbers must know.”
“I can go back to Castle Black.” Sawyer said quietly, and Gareth nodded to him.
“I suppose I could go to Shadow Tower.” Kip said casually.
“I think none of us should ride alone in this situation.” Laurence spoke up. “The traitors are still out there.” Everyone mumbled in agreement.
“So, Federico, where would you like to go?” Sawyer asked with his calm tone. The question surprised Federico, but he knew he would have to choose something.
As much as I would like to have a night's watch PoV back at Castle Black. I think some Umber action would be interesting too. So I'm choosing for Federico to go to the Last Hearth. Interesting introduction for Bronn, interested in where that will go now with the mutiny at Castle Black. Nice part man! A long wait was well deserved
I agree with Stigz, the Umbers just sound too interesting to miss out on. They are probably my favourite northern House, so I'm looking forward for them.
Federico
The tavern of the Mole's Town was dark even if the sun was still up – the tavern, like almost everything in Mole's Town, was ben… moreeath the ground. Federico closed his eyes for a moment. The next night would be the fourth after the mutiny at Castle Black. Federico Reed sat silently on the corner table and Sawyer Glover sat opposed to him. They were both young boys from noble houses of the North who felt honored to be rangers. And neither of them had ever expected something so disgusting to happen at the Wall that had happened couple days ago.
”I really need some rest.” Sawyer said with tired words, and Federico shared the feeling. Together they had been hunting the deserters around the Gift, and so far they had only found two. Federico assumed the other rangers had found some too. He really hoped they could find them all, but it was a fool's hope.
”The others should come soon. Then we'll see what happens next.” Federico muttere… [view original content]
Federico
The tavern of the Mole's Town was dark even if the sun was still up – the tavern, like almost everything in Mole's Town, was ben… moreeath the ground. Federico closed his eyes for a moment. The next night would be the fourth after the mutiny at Castle Black. Federico Reed sat silently on the corner table and Sawyer Glover sat opposed to him. They were both young boys from noble houses of the North who felt honored to be rangers. And neither of them had ever expected something so disgusting to happen at the Wall that had happened couple days ago.
”I really need some rest.” Sawyer said with tired words, and Federico shared the feeling. Together they had been hunting the deserters around the Gift, and so far they had only found two. Federico assumed the other rangers had found some too. He really hoped they could find them all, but it was a fool's hope.
”The others should come soon. Then we'll see what happens next.” Federico muttere… [view original content]
Federico
The tavern of the Mole's Town was dark even if the sun was still up – the tavern, like almost everything in Mole's Town, was ben… moreeath the ground. Federico closed his eyes for a moment. The next night would be the fourth after the mutiny at Castle Black. Federico Reed sat silently on the corner table and Sawyer Glover sat opposed to him. They were both young boys from noble houses of the North who felt honored to be rangers. And neither of them had ever expected something so disgusting to happen at the Wall that had happened couple days ago.
”I really need some rest.” Sawyer said with tired words, and Federico shared the feeling. Together they had been hunting the deserters around the Gift, and so far they had only found two. Federico assumed the other rangers had found some too. He really hoped they could find them all, but it was a fool's hope.
”The others should come soon. Then we'll see what happens next.” Federico muttere… [view original content]
Federico
The tavern of the Mole's Town was dark even if the sun was still up – the tavern, like almost everything in Mole's Town, was ben… moreeath the ground. Federico closed his eyes for a moment. The next night would be the fourth after the mutiny at Castle Black. Federico Reed sat silently on the corner table and Sawyer Glover sat opposed to him. They were both young boys from noble houses of the North who felt honored to be rangers. And neither of them had ever expected something so disgusting to happen at the Wall that had happened couple days ago.
”I really need some rest.” Sawyer said with tired words, and Federico shared the feeling. Together they had been hunting the deserters around the Gift, and so far they had only found two. Federico assumed the other rangers had found some too. He really hoped they could find them all, but it was a fool's hope.
”The others should come soon. Then we'll see what happens next.” Federico muttere… [view original content]
The sun was setting to the west as Trystan Oldstark sat in a silent room in one of the towers of Eastwatch-by-the-sea – once again reading through the scroll that had arrived almost a week ago from Castle Black. The letter had been sent to Tobas Flowers, the Commander of Eastwatch, but Trystan was more interested in it and more worried about it than Tobas had ever been.
The situation in Castle Black is unstable. Lord Commander left with our best rangers – including the First Ranger George Rivers – to the Haunted Forest, on a mission to find two missing brothers. Since he has left I have noticed signs of indiscipline among the brothers.
Today a young brother, Robett, came to me telling about his concerns on the matter. He had been threatened in the Common Hall, and one of the stewards had said that he will be the king of Castle Black.
I have come to a conclusion that we need more loyal men, preferably rangers, here to ensure the order and peace. I ask you to send as many men as you see you are able to give.
-Jon, Maester of Castle Black
Trystan let out a tired sigh and put the scroll away. At first Tobas had decided not to send anyone, but after Trystan had urged him he had finally agreed to send three men – two rangers and one builder. Trystan was the First Steward and he knew he should be at Castle Black on a time like this, but Tobas Flowers insisted that their mission on breaking the connection of the smugglers to the lands of the wildlings was more important than the situation of Castle Black. Trystan looked out of the window, seeing the dark and calm sea. I need some fresh air. He took his ironwood cane and left the room.
As Trystan walked out of the tower he felt the wind of the sea on his face and took a deep breath. His personal steward, Broken Hill, was sitting at a wooden bench with Ser Arthor Obsydian. Two young men with sad past.
“My Lord, are you going somewhere?” Broken asked with intrigued tone. He was a young lad from the Westerlands, green eyes, wavy brown hair and ridicilously thin stubble beard. Trystan knew that being a bastard troubled Broken, and that he had clearly had a hard childhood so he tried his best to help the boy to overcome his past.
“Not really, just getting some fresh air.” Trystan answered with a smile, but Broken didn't answer to it. It's not easy to make that boy smile.
“Your name is...” Ser Arthor said, looking at Trystan, trying his best to remember.
“Trystan. Trystan Oldstark.” He answered with gentle tone. Ser Arthor was a skillful warrior who had suffered an injury on the head fighting against the ironborn on the Stony Shore. Trystan had his own history with being injured as his right leg had been crushed during his childhood and never fully healed. Ser Arthor Obsydian surely deserves all my help. “I don't know if you remember, but you are at the Wall, the Eastwatch-by-the-sea. You came here couple months ago, after your injury at the Stony Shore.”
“Stony Shore... The battle.” Ser Arthor said with a touch of sadness and pain in his voice. “I remember.”
“Good.” Trystan said calmly. “You are a great warrior, Ser Arthor, and one day you'll remember your past again.” Ser Arthor turned his gaze to the ground.
“My Lord, when will we return to Castle Black?” Broken asked with sad and lazy tone. Trystan let out a sigh.
“You are bored here, aye? Well, sadly I don't know when can we return... Commander Tobas is extremely passionate on our mission to stop the smuggling. Personally I'm not even sure if it's something that really can ever be stopped.” As Trystan stopped talking he saw the gates of the castle opening and four men riding in. As they rode closer Trystan recognized them. Rangers from Castle Black.
“Howard, what are you doing here?” Trystan asked as Howard McDonald, a young and stern ranger, dismounted his horse. The three others, Sam, Thomos and Darran followed Howard.
“Good to see you, Lord Trystan.” Howard said with dry tone and serious look on his deep set green eyes. “We have bad news from Castle Black.” Trystan pressed his lips together and closed his eyes in frustration. I knew it.
“So, has someone been killed?” Trystan asked with concern in his words.
“No, not just someone, almost the whole damn castle – including several rangers and Maester Jon.” Howard's words were hard and cold, and for a while Trystan couldn't say anything. And then Tobas Flowers marched to them asking what was going on. When Howard told about the mutiny Tobas' face turned pale from shock.
“Damn Musgood.” Tobas muttered. “Leaving his own castle without a proper leader, of course this is what happens.”
“You didn't seem that concerned when Jon's raven came.” Trystan remarked with bitter tone, but Tobas acted as if he didn't hear.
“We have come here to inform you and ask for aid, not to listen bickering.” Howard said strictly and Trystan nodded to him.
“Of course, I'll ride with you back to Castle Black, and I'm sure Tobas can give some of the Eastwatch's men too.” Trystan spoke calmly, but Tobas didn't seem to agree with him.
“If you want to leave then alright, I can contiue this mission on my own, but I will not give anymore men! I have already sent three good men that would be much needed here, I will not send more unless the Lord Commander himself commands me to do so.” Tobas Flowers shook his head as he spoke and Howard took couple quick steps and grabbed Tobas from his cloak. Howard was an athletic and tall young man whereas Tobas was old, short and plump.
“Do you understand at all what has happened, old man?” Howard hissed, staring Tobas with furious eyes.
“Let go of me, boy, or I'll have you hanged!” Tobas yelled, his face red, and Trystan decided to interfere. He took Howard by the shoulder and pulled him away from Tobas.
“Don't worry, Howard, I'm sure Shadow Tower has sent more men.” Trystan said calmly, but the look on Howard's face was confused.
“But how? How would have they known to send anyone? How did you know?” Howard asked and Trystan gave him a subtle smile.
“We didn't know that something so terrible had happened, but Maester Jon sent us a raven about his concerns on the situation about a week ago.” Trystan explained. “I'm sure he sent one to Shadow Tower as well.”
“Alright then.” Howard said quietly and let out a sigh. As they were all silent Trystan cleared his throat.
“Go, have a small rest and eat. Tomorrow we will ride towards Castle Black and take the situation under control.” Trystan said, trying to sound as confident as he could. It will not be easy.
Wow, this was great! Trystan, Broken and Ser Arthor. You hit the nail on the head with them, absolutely perfect! I have to say though, Tobas Flowers really does remind me of Janos Slint XD
Trystan
The sun was setting to the west as Trystan Oldstark sat in a silent room in one of the towers of Eastwatch-by-the-sea – once agai… moren reading through the scroll that had arrived almost a week ago from Castle Black. The letter had been sent to Tobas Flowers, the Commander of Eastwatch, but Trystan was more interested in it and more worried about it than Tobas had ever been.
The situation in Castle Black is unstable. Lord Commander left with our best rangers – including the First Ranger George Rivers – to the Haunted Forest, on a mission to find two missing brothers. Since he has left I have noticed signs of indiscipline among the brothers.
Today a young brother, Robett, came to me telling about his concerns on the matter. He had been threatened in the Common Hall, and one of the stewards had said that he will be the king of Castle Black.
I have come to a conclusion that we need more loyal men, preferably rangers, here to ensur… [view original content]
And yeah, I didn't have Janos in my mind as I wrote, but now that you said it there certainly is a similarity No worries though, Shadow Tower's commander will be a much cooler character
Wow, this was great! Trystan, Broken and Ser Arthor. You hit the nail on the head with them, absolutely perfect! I have to say though, Tobas Flowers really does remind me of Janos Slint XD
Great part! Looking forward to the next one
The sky was clouded and the wind felt cold on Robett's face and the fingers that were wrapped around the dagger he had taken from the dead hands of Cruz. Robett coughed. Am I getting sick now? Great. Another abandoned fort could be seen in the distance. An old brown pony stomped forward on the right side of Robett, carrying the supplies. On the other side of it was Tom, a builder on his mid-thirties, who had joined Robett on this journey to Shadow Tower.
“And what is the name of that castle, Robett?” Tom asked with a gentle tone. Tom was a kind man, but he was also physically strong and threatening and Robett had found himself wondering what had this man done to end up at the Wall.
“This is the fourth one to west from Castle Black... So it's Icemark.” Robett answered with toneless words. The Icemark was a small fort on a flat field, its only tower had crumbled and overall it looked to be in a bad shape.
“It's a lot smaller than the last one... Nightfort, was it?” Tom asked and Robett nodded. “And in a bad shape too... I think we should keep going to the next one, there is still hours to the sundown.”
“Alright, but let's stop there. Just quickly.” Robett said and looked at Tom who didn't look to be so sure about it, but he nodded anyway.
“I hope this is not because you want to find those deserters, Robett.” Tom said as they walked towards the fort with their pony. As Robett didn't answer Tom let out a small sigh. “I understand your anger, young man. I have felt it too, more than once in my life. But you must remember that anger, fear and bitterness – those are not the paths that our gods want us to choose. I will never forget, nor forgive, what those traitors did that night, but I will leave it for the Seven to find judgement suitable for them.”
“But then... Wh- Where...” Robett stuttered, fighting against tears. “Where were the Seven gods that night?” Robett pressed his lips together and turned his bitter stare to Tom.
“In all the brothers who stayed true to their vows and defended each other.” Tom answered calmly. “The evil is in everyone of us, Robett, and without the guidance of the gods that evil takes hold of us – as has happened to these traitors.” As Robett stayed silent Tom tapped him gently on the back and gave him a warm smile. “You are a good boy, Robett. It is understandable to be sad on times like this, but you must remember that useless anger often leads only to more pain. Now let's go eat something and then we can continue our travel.” Robett nodded meekly, and so they entered the wrecked fort.
-
Robett was leaning on the cold stone. He hadn't ate much, but he hadn't truly been hungry either after leaving Castle Black. Tom was still eating his salted fish, whilst Robett looked around him. He wasn't sure when exactly had Icemark been abandoned, but clearly it had been a long time ago. Cold, sad and small castle – only wind whispering in the halls. As Robett was about to turn back to Tom he heard something. Something was moving – and it was close. Robett took out his dagger and looked to every direction. Tom looked at him from about twenty feet away.
“What is it Robett? Did you see something?” Tom's voice was more intrigued than concerned. Robett gulped.
“I heard something.” He answered with serious tone. Then in a shocking slam the door of the armory opened and a huge figure ran towards Robett with a hammer in its hand. It's Griff!
The mute giant came closer and closer to Robett with a terrorizing look in its eyes, and for a second Robett was about to froze because of his fear. At the last moment Robett found his feet and tried to dodge the swing of Griff's hammer, but it hit him in the chest. A pain flashed through him as he stumbled to the ground. Robett tightened his grip to the dagger, trying to overcome his fear.
As Robett turned his eyes to Griff he noticed that Tom had come to help with his sword. Unfortunately Tom wasn't very good with sword and his swings missed the target until Griff finally managed to disarm him. As the sword hit the ground Griff swung his hammer to Tom's right leg, making him scream in agony. Griff let out a terrible sound that was apparently meant to be laughing, but since the blacksmith didn't have tongue all that came out was a horrific scratching noise. That bastard... That fucking bastard!
As Griff was focused on Tom, Robett saw an opening. He clenched to his dagger and rushed towards Griff. With all his strength he plunged his dagger to the lower back of Griff. The huge man didn't not scream, but Robett could see the pain in his eyes. Take that, you arse!
As Griff turned to Robett the rage in the black eyes of the old man sent shivers down Robett's spine. He couldn't escape – Griff raised his fist. And the punch Griff threw at Robett sent him to the ground. Pain was blurring his sight. This is it. Robett closed his eyes, being sure that this would be his end.
“What in the hells is going on here?” Was screamed from somewhere. Soon Robett heard horses galloping around him. As he opened his eyes he saw six men of the Night's Watch on horseback surrounding him, Griff and Tom. One of the men was aiming at them with longbow and the rest had unsheathed swords.
One of the men, a handsome one with silver hair, strong jaw and violet eyes, dismounted his horse and walked closer to them with his sword up.
“Drop your weapons unless you want me to beat them out of your hands.” He said with strong words. “Not that I wouldn't enjoy it.” He added with a small smirk on his face. Tom dropped his sword immediately, and Robett didn't even have the dagger on his hands anymore. Griff looked at the men around them for a while, and then decided to drop the hammer.
“Let's solve this quickly.” The silver-haired man said with bored tone. “Are you deserters? Why are you fighting?”
“We are not deserters.” Tom answered sternly. “Me and the boy I mean... This man here is.” He pointed at Griff. The silver-haired man shook his head.
“This doesn't make sense.” He said and chuckled.
“Let me explain.” Robett spoke with timid words, and the man nodded to him. “Couple days ago a mutiny happened at Castle Black... Many died, Maester Jon as one of them. The rangers of Castle Black, well most of them, took their horses and rode after the deserters. Someone had to go to Shadow Tower so we decided to go. That man is a traitor and deserter, a murderer, his name is Griff. But we are not. He is Tom and I am Robett, personal steward of Lord Commander Jack Musgood.” For a while the silver-haired man looked at him doubtfully, until one of the other men spoke up.
“Commander Dayne, I think the name of this boy was mentioned in the message of Maester Jon.” The expression on the man's face changed.
“Yes... You are right. The message did mention Robett. I suppose we can trust you are speaking the truth then. I am Commander of Shadow Tower, Edric Dayne.” He said to Robett, and then turned his eyes to Griff, who had taken a couple steps backwards. “So this man is a traitor.”
“Yes.” Robett said with anger in his voice and Edric Dayne nodded to him.
“So be it, he will be executed here in the Icemark. Ser Lyonel, you can escort Robett and Tom to Shadow Tower and the rest of us will continue to Castle Black.” As Edric stopped speaking Griff rushed towards him, but it was clearly an act of desperation. Edric dodged his tackle smoothly and poked him to the back of his head with the pommel of the sword. And so Griff fell to his knees.
“Robett.” Edric said and looked at him to the eyes. “It's clear this man has done a crime against you. If you wish, you can be the one to kill him.” Edric had a smile on his face as he spoke. At first Robett was surprised of this offer, but then he started to feel the temptation. This man killed Maester Jon. This man did something terrible to Cruz. I want my revenge. As Robett raised his look he saw Tom looking at him straight to the eyes and shaking his head subtly.
Robett
The sky was clouded and the wind felt cold on Robett's face and the fingers that were wrapped around the dagger he had taken from … morethe dead hands of Cruz. Robett coughed. Am I getting sick now? Great. Another abandoned fort could be seen in the distance. An old brown pony stomped forward on the right side of Robett, carrying the supplies. On the other side of it was Tom, a builder on his mid-thirties, who had joined Robett on this journey to Shadow Tower.
“And what is the name of that castle, Robett?” Tom asked with a gentle tone. Tom was a kind man, but he was also physically strong and threatening and Robett had found himself wondering what had this man done to end up at the Wall.
“This is the fourth one to west from Castle Black... So it's Icemark.” Robett answered with toneless words. The Icemark was a small fort on a flat field, its only tower had crumbled and overall it looked to be in a bad shape.
“It's a lot smaller … [view original content]
Robett
The sky was clouded and the wind felt cold on Robett's face and the fingers that were wrapped around the dagger he had taken from … morethe dead hands of Cruz. Robett coughed. Am I getting sick now? Great. Another abandoned fort could be seen in the distance. An old brown pony stomped forward on the right side of Robett, carrying the supplies. On the other side of it was Tom, a builder on his mid-thirties, who had joined Robett on this journey to Shadow Tower.
“And what is the name of that castle, Robett?” Tom asked with a gentle tone. Tom was a kind man, but he was also physically strong and threatening and Robett had found himself wondering what had this man done to end up at the Wall.
“This is the fourth one to west from Castle Black... So it's Icemark.” Robett answered with toneless words. The Icemark was a small fort on a flat field, its only tower had crumbled and overall it looked to be in a bad shape.
“It's a lot smaller … [view original content]
Robett
The sky was clouded and the wind felt cold on Robett's face and the fingers that were wrapped around the dagger he had taken from … morethe dead hands of Cruz. Robett coughed. Am I getting sick now? Great. Another abandoned fort could be seen in the distance. An old brown pony stomped forward on the right side of Robett, carrying the supplies. On the other side of it was Tom, a builder on his mid-thirties, who had joined Robett on this journey to Shadow Tower.
“And what is the name of that castle, Robett?” Tom asked with a gentle tone. Tom was a kind man, but he was also physically strong and threatening and Robett had found himself wondering what had this man done to end up at the Wall.
“This is the fourth one to west from Castle Black... So it's Icemark.” Robett answered with toneless words. The Icemark was a small fort on a flat field, its only tower had crumbled and overall it looked to be in a bad shape.
“It's a lot smaller … [view original content]
Robett
The sky was clouded and the wind felt cold on Robett's face and the fingers that were wrapped around the dagger he had taken from … morethe dead hands of Cruz. Robett coughed. Am I getting sick now? Great. Another abandoned fort could be seen in the distance. An old brown pony stomped forward on the right side of Robett, carrying the supplies. On the other side of it was Tom, a builder on his mid-thirties, who had joined Robett on this journey to Shadow Tower.
“And what is the name of that castle, Robett?” Tom asked with a gentle tone. Tom was a kind man, but he was also physically strong and threatening and Robett had found himself wondering what had this man done to end up at the Wall.
“This is the fourth one to west from Castle Black... So it's Icemark.” Robett answered with toneless words. The Icemark was a small fort on a flat field, its only tower had crumbled and overall it looked to be in a bad shape.
“It's a lot smaller … [view original content]
[Kill Griff] I think Robett deserves his revenge, he is slowly changing. As for Griff, one must always be sad one his/her character comes to a conclusion, and for a moment there I felt sad for Griff as he had no hope in survival, but you know what? Deserters are deserters, so for the Watch I say.
Comments
[Crowl's army - Saltspear]
[Crowl's army - Saltspear]
I really want to have as little to do with the Bolton's as possible. Nothing good can ever come out of this.
[Bolton's army - Wolfswood]
[Bolton's army - Wolfswood]
[Bolton's army - Wolfswood]
Vote closed!
Argus, with his companies, will join Lord Bolton's army and head towards Wolfswood. I'm very excited in writing this storyline - actually I was hyped for both options (Bolton&Crowl) so ofc I am also a little sad about the Skagosi getting less "screentime" now. But as said I'm also hyped for Boltons and Wolfswood
And in this option Argus&co. will stay a little longer in Winterfell so expect a couple more Starks to be introduced in the next Argus parts.
What comes to the next part I am not 100% sure yet who will it be. Most likely it will be Robett, Edric or a certain new PoV from Eastwatch. And it might take a while since I haven't written today at all and tomorrow might also be pretty busy.
New PoV from eastwatch ay? Sounds interesting
Edric
”Tarna.” The girl said quietly as Jolly Jack asked her name for the third time. Jack let out a sigh. They were at the same village where Keran had sent Edric back to Castle Black with Ramsay. Edric Mormont, Jack Musgood and George Rivers stood in a cold and dark cottage questioning the young girl that Keran had took with him as he had continued his search for Raymun Redbeard.
”See? It wasn't that hard.” The Lord Commander muttered with a tired tone, making the wildling girl frown.
”So, Edric, are you sure this is the one Keran took with him?” George Rivers - the First Ranger and a sturdy man on his early thirties – asked, and Edric nodded lazily.
”As I have said several times – this is the girl.” Edric answered, and he could see the anger in the stare that the girl gave him, but he didn't care. I have no symphaty for any of these savages.
”Is this true, Tarna?” Jack asked the girl with a kind tone. ”We are looking for Keran and Rambton, we need to know what happened.” Now the girl's expression turned sad, and she lowered her gaze to the ground. Edric could see the concern in Jack's eyes. Edric wasn't sure what to think about this whole mission. Keran was a good man, but he made a mistake – and now he is most likely dead. And when it came to Rambton, Edric couldn't care less.
”They were captured.” The girl muttered. ”By Harron Crowsbane.”
”I've heard of him.” George said with a serious tone. ”A bloody arse.” The girl gave George a glare, but the Jolly Jack spoke up again.
”And what happened then?”
”They were given a choice.” Tarna started with her voice shaking. For a while she was quiet, looking at them with fear in her eyes, perhaps expecting them to be mad at her of what she would tell, but then she finally decided to continue. ”A choice between freedom or judgement.” Jack closed his eyes in despair as he heard this. It wasn't hard to guess the rest of the story.
”So are they both dead now?” George asked with toneless words. The girl shook her head meekly.
”The other one, Rambton, he was injured, but he decided to join Harron rather than die.” The girl spoke quickly. ”They headed north, towards the lands of the Hornfoots.”
”Traitor.” George muttered with disbelief in his eyes. Edric wasn't really surprised – of course Rambton Snow wouldn't have died for his vows. Jack stayed silent, gazing at the ground with anger and frustration in his eyes. George shifted his attention to Edric.
”You can leave now, Edric.” He said sternly, and Edric had no choice but to obey. Silently he stepped out of the cottage to the rain and saw the other rangers eagerly waiting for him. Of course, they want to hear what happens next.
”So, boy, what did the girl say?” Khort asked with his commanding voice. Khort was an annoying man on his late thirties, seeing all the younger rangers as his lackies.
”He said that Harron Crowsbane captured Keran and Rambton.” Edric answered tonelessly. ”Keran is dead, but Rambton apparently joined the wildlings to stay alive.”
”What the fuck? That fucking bastard joined the wildlings?” Khort had rage in his eyes as he spoke. Wulfric Ironsteed let out a sarcastic laugh for Khort's words and shook his head. Wulfric was a handsome and tall man on his late twenties, and he was one of the best rangers of Castle Black.
”What did you expect, old man? Besides, that certainly is the wise thing to do – survive and when the moment comes escape back to the Wall.” Wulfric spoke with confident words and a small grin on his face.
”And you really think Rambton fucking Snow is ever going to come back?” Khort asked with his angry tone and shook his head furiously.
”I believe he will.” Victor, a kind young man on his early twneties, answered, but Khort just shook his head again.
”I think I have to agree with Khort on this one.” Ser Jaremy Brownbarrow – a talented young knight who had once served Lord Manderly – said with a sigh. ”I don't believe we'll ever see Rambton wearing a black cloak again.”
”So Keran is dead and the bastard has joined the wildlings... Mormont, did Jolly Jack say what are we going to do now?” Khort asked, shifting his stern gaze back at Edric again. Edric shrugged.
”Apparently Jack and George are deciding it right now.” He answered and Khort grunted angrily.
”If you ask me we should go and find the bastard, so we can cut his fucking head off!” Khort bellowed, making Wulfric roll his eyes.
”Oh yes, when one of us gets captured by the wildlings the right thing to do is to go and kill him.” Wulfric said with his sarcastic tone.
”We should go after him.” Victor said quietly. ”Not to kill him, but to save him.” Of course Khort didn't agree with this and made it quite clear, whereas Wulfric just laughed at Khort's raging. Edric stayed out of the arguing, he wasn't sure what to think about this. He had never seen Rambton as a friend, or even respected him. And it could be said that Rambton had broken his vows, but at the same time it might have been the right decision in that moment.
”Just calm down.” Ser Jaremy said with tired tone. ”Maybe we shouldn't go after him at all. Keran made the mistake of going too deep into the lands of the wildlings, perhaps we should prevent ourselves from doing that.”
”Fucking coward!” Khort boasted and spat to the ground, making the young knight sigh.
”It would mean abandoning our brother!” Victor said with baffled expression on his face. ”We can't do that... Edric, you agree with me, right?” Victor looked at Edric, who was a little surprised about this question. I'm not sure who do I agree with. Khort was right about Rambton breaking his vows. Victor was also right, returning to Castle Black would be abandoning a brother who has been captured. And on the other hand Jaremy was right as well, going too far to the north would be a huge risk.
[Agree with Khort] [Agree with Victor] [Agree with Ser Jaremy] [Say that you have no opinion]
[Agree with Khort]
[Say that you have no opinion]
Simply because I somehow support all three opinions and really don't know what to pick. I don't like Rambton, so I wouldn't mind Khort's plan. On the other hand, I am not sure if I want to see him dead just because I dislike him, so Victor's plan sounds similarly appealing. And finally, considering the situation at Castle Black, it couldn't be bad if they return.
[Say that you have no opinion]
Sure, it doesn't help the situation at hand but currently everyone is right. Jon Snow was with the Wildlings but he came back to the wall (not that I can see Rambton coming back). If he doesn't come back then he needs to pay in justice, though I don't think a small bunch of rangers charging into a supposed army is a smart idea.
[Say that you have no opinion]
[Say that you have no opinion]
[Say that you have no opinion]
[Agree with Khort]
[Say that you have no opinion]
Vote closed! Alright, so Edric will say that he has no opinion on the matter. Edric is of course not in any kind of authority on this so he won't be choosing what will they do. However this choice was more about who of the rangers will see Edric as a nice/wise guy and who will think he is wrong/stupid... And obviously the most neutral choice was made
So, the effects of this choice to Edric's relationship with any of the other rangers is pretty minimal - not totally nonexistent though!
And the story will continue with a streak of three NW-character's parts. Well the streak is 4 if you count this Edric part. So lot's of brothers in black coming for the next couple parts. Two of them will be new PoVs - the next one is Federico Reed, who has been already briefly introduced, then comes a totally new character who has been mentioned once in the story but not by name. And lastly we'll have Robett's first part of the chapter 3. After that I think we'll go back for some wildling action
Excited!!!!
Haha
Well don't expect too much, these are after all still just more or less build-up/aftermath parts - not that those couldn't be enjoyable 
Pfff, any new PoV is interesting in my opinion. They show the same story in a different light and shed there impact in a different way. I'm really looking forward to the next few parts
Federico
The tavern of the Mole's Town was dark even if the sun was still up – the tavern, like almost everything in Mole's Town, was beneath the ground. Federico closed his eyes for a moment. The next night would be the fourth after the mutiny at Castle Black. Federico Reed sat silently on the corner table and Sawyer Glover sat opposed to him. They were both young boys from noble houses of the North who felt honored to be rangers. And neither of them had ever expected something so disgusting to happen at the Wall that had happened couple days ago.
”I really need some rest.” Sawyer said with tired words, and Federico shared the feeling. Together they had been hunting the deserters around the Gift, and so far they had only found two. Federico assumed the other rangers had found some too. He really hoped they could find them all, but it was a fool's hope.
”The others should come soon. Then we'll see what happens next.” Federico muttered and took a sip from his ale. Sawyer nodded. He was a young man, but Federico could see that he had already experienced a lot in his life. The look on Sawyer's brown eyes was calm and wise and a long scar ran through his face, telling that Sawyer had also seen his share of combat.
After a while the door was opened and three men in black cloaks walked the stairs down to the tavern. They were Kip, Laurence and Gareth Oaketh.
”Bring us some ale!” Kip yelled to the bartender as they walked towards the corner table.
“Wasn't Dennis with you?” Sawyer asked, referring to Dennis Stone, a bastard from House Arryn. “Please don't say the traitors got him.”
“Of course not!” Kip answered with a small smirk on his face. “We found four of them, and Dennis rode to Winterfell to inform the Starks.” Kip was smiling as he spoke, but Gareth and Laurence had more serious expressions on their faces. And for a good reason. The bartender brought ale with a grin look on his face, and Kip started drinking as if he had never drank before.
“The looks on their faces... Some of them begged for mercy.” Laurence spoke quietly, gazing at the table with empty eyes.
“They can beg all they want.” Gareth grunted. “I was at the Flint Barracks that night... Too many good men were killed by these fucking traitors.” For a moment it was silent. We all remember that night only too well.
“So Dennis rides to Winterfell, Howard and the others are still out there. What do we do next?” Federico asked with a serious tone, eyeing his brothers. Kip shrugged and kept drinking.
“Well, some of us must go back to Castle Black... Someone has to keep order there.” Sawyer said with his tired tone. “I trust Ramsay of course, but he is not in a good shape at the moment.”
“I agree.” Gareth answered shortly, and Laurence nodded as well. “And someone should also ride to Last Hearth to inform the Umbers... They should know that there are deserters running around their lands.”
“What about Eastwatch? And Shadow Tower? Shouldn't someone inform them?” Sawyer asked and Gareth nodded to him.
“Howard will go to Eastwatch with his companies.” Gareth explained. “And Shadow Tower... Well I guess one or two of us could go there.”
Before anyone had time to answer the door of the tavern was opened again.
“Go on, bastards! Down you go!” A raspy and commanding voice yelled as an interesting group walked down the stairs to the tavern. First Federico saw four men in chains. One of them was clearly some peasants from the North, perhaps at early thirties – dirty beard and hair and ragged clothes. One was a pale young man, with blue eyes and a nose that looked like it had been broken several times. Then there was a pretty and skinny young boy with green eyes and brown hair, and a stern looking man in a clothes fitting for a noble, with blue eyes and dark brown beard and hair. Behind these chained men were two older men in black cloaks. The other one was bald and had a long grey beard, and the other one had dirty blonde hair and a wrinkled face with missing left eye.
“Jorgan and Croll!” Gareth yelled with cheerful tone. “Isn't it a pleasure to see you two old bastards!”
“Hey, hey!” The bald one yelled. “Watch your words, young man!”
“Oh shut up, Jorgan!” Gareth started to laugh. Slowly Federico started to remember – these were the men who brought Dickon, Bryan and Tom to Castle Black after Federico had just been a week at the Wall.
“We got some new company for you.” The one with the missing eye – apparently Croll – said with stern words and steered the chained men to one of tables near them. “We've got one from the capital – Feather Waters.” Croll pointed at the pretty boy. “A fucking kinslayer. Talking about kinslayers, here we got Bronn Forrester.” Now Croll was pointing at the blue-eyed man with brown beard and hair, who grunted something unintelligeble. “And then there is Rass, who thought it was a good idea to run away from his liege lord's army.” Croll's finger pointed now at the man with ragged clothes. “And finally we have Garran Sharp. An ironborn who chose the Wall rather than death.” The young man turned his look to the floor as Croll spoke of him.
“So what exactly are you doing here?” Jorgan asked, eyeing at all of the rangers with skeptical look on his eyes. Gareth let out a sigh.
“I'm afraid we have some bad news... Very bad news.” Sawyer Glover said with dark look in his eyes. As he told the story of the mutiny to these two old men the memories returned to Federico's head more clearly than ever before – he had to press his lips together to keep himself from cursing those traitors to all the hells there were.
“If what you say is true then you must return to Castle Black.” Jorgan said with serious tone. “We need every man to keep order in situation like this.”
“You are right.” Gareth answered. “But there are also couple other things to take care of. Myself I will ride to Last Hearth, the Umbers must know.”
“I can go back to Castle Black.” Sawyer said quietly, and Gareth nodded to him.
“I suppose I could go to Shadow Tower.” Kip said casually.
“I think none of us should ride alone in this situation.” Laurence spoke up. “The traitors are still out there.” Everyone mumbled in agreement.
“So, Federico, where would you like to go?” Sawyer asked with his calm tone. The question surprised Federico, but he knew he would have to choose something.
[Castle Black] [Last Hearth] [Shadow Tower]
As much as I would like to have a night's watch PoV back at Castle Black. I think some Umber action would be interesting too. So I'm choosing for Federico to go to the Last Hearth. Interesting introduction for Bronn, interested in where that will go now with the mutiny at Castle Black. Nice part man! A long wait was well deserved
[Last Hearth]
I agree with Stigz, the Umbers just sound too interesting to miss out on. They are probably my favourite northern House, so I'm looking forward for them.
[Last Hearth]
[Last Hearth] Seems more interesting.
[Last Hearth]
[Last Hearth]
[Last Hearth]
Alright, this one is clear. Vote closed! So, Federico will head for the Last Hearth with Gareth Oaketh, and meet the Umbers.
Good choice, if I may say. It will be a pleasure to bring some Umbers to the story!
And the next part will be another new PoV, a man named Trystan Oldstark. We'll learn more about him soon
Trystan
The sun was setting to the west as Trystan Oldstark sat in a silent room in one of the towers of Eastwatch-by-the-sea – once again reading through the scroll that had arrived almost a week ago from Castle Black. The letter had been sent to Tobas Flowers, the Commander of Eastwatch, but Trystan was more interested in it and more worried about it than Tobas had ever been.
The situation in Castle Black is unstable. Lord Commander left with our best rangers – including the First Ranger George Rivers – to the Haunted Forest, on a mission to find two missing brothers. Since he has left I have noticed signs of indiscipline among the brothers.
Today a young brother, Robett, came to me telling about his concerns on the matter. He had been threatened in the Common Hall, and one of the stewards had said that he will be the king of Castle Black.
I have come to a conclusion that we need more loyal men, preferably rangers, here to ensure the order and peace. I ask you to send as many men as you see you are able to give.
-Jon, Maester of Castle Black
Trystan let out a tired sigh and put the scroll away. At first Tobas had decided not to send anyone, but after Trystan had urged him he had finally agreed to send three men – two rangers and one builder. Trystan was the First Steward and he knew he should be at Castle Black on a time like this, but Tobas Flowers insisted that their mission on breaking the connection of the smugglers to the lands of the wildlings was more important than the situation of Castle Black. Trystan looked out of the window, seeing the dark and calm sea. I need some fresh air. He took his ironwood cane and left the room.
As Trystan walked out of the tower he felt the wind of the sea on his face and took a deep breath. His personal steward, Broken Hill, was sitting at a wooden bench with Ser Arthor Obsydian. Two young men with sad past.
“My Lord, are you going somewhere?” Broken asked with intrigued tone. He was a young lad from the Westerlands, green eyes, wavy brown hair and ridicilously thin stubble beard. Trystan knew that being a bastard troubled Broken, and that he had clearly had a hard childhood so he tried his best to help the boy to overcome his past.
“Not really, just getting some fresh air.” Trystan answered with a smile, but Broken didn't answer to it. It's not easy to make that boy smile.
“Your name is...” Ser Arthor said, looking at Trystan, trying his best to remember.
“Trystan. Trystan Oldstark.” He answered with gentle tone. Ser Arthor was a skillful warrior who had suffered an injury on the head fighting against the ironborn on the Stony Shore. Trystan had his own history with being injured as his right leg had been crushed during his childhood and never fully healed. Ser Arthor Obsydian surely deserves all my help. “I don't know if you remember, but you are at the Wall, the Eastwatch-by-the-sea. You came here couple months ago, after your injury at the Stony Shore.”
“Stony Shore... The battle.” Ser Arthor said with a touch of sadness and pain in his voice. “I remember.”
“Good.” Trystan said calmly. “You are a great warrior, Ser Arthor, and one day you'll remember your past again.” Ser Arthor turned his gaze to the ground.
“My Lord, when will we return to Castle Black?” Broken asked with sad and lazy tone. Trystan let out a sigh.
“You are bored here, aye? Well, sadly I don't know when can we return... Commander Tobas is extremely passionate on our mission to stop the smuggling. Personally I'm not even sure if it's something that really can ever be stopped.” As Trystan stopped talking he saw the gates of the castle opening and four men riding in. As they rode closer Trystan recognized them. Rangers from Castle Black.
“Howard, what are you doing here?” Trystan asked as Howard McDonald, a young and stern ranger, dismounted his horse. The three others, Sam, Thomos and Darran followed Howard.
“Good to see you, Lord Trystan.” Howard said with dry tone and serious look on his deep set green eyes. “We have bad news from Castle Black.” Trystan pressed his lips together and closed his eyes in frustration. I knew it.
“So, has someone been killed?” Trystan asked with concern in his words.
“No, not just someone, almost the whole damn castle – including several rangers and Maester Jon.” Howard's words were hard and cold, and for a while Trystan couldn't say anything. And then Tobas Flowers marched to them asking what was going on. When Howard told about the mutiny Tobas' face turned pale from shock.
“Damn Musgood.” Tobas muttered. “Leaving his own castle without a proper leader, of course this is what happens.”
“You didn't seem that concerned when Jon's raven came.” Trystan remarked with bitter tone, but Tobas acted as if he didn't hear.
“We have come here to inform you and ask for aid, not to listen bickering.” Howard said strictly and Trystan nodded to him.
“Of course, I'll ride with you back to Castle Black, and I'm sure Tobas can give some of the Eastwatch's men too.” Trystan spoke calmly, but Tobas didn't seem to agree with him.
“If you want to leave then alright, I can contiue this mission on my own, but I will not give anymore men! I have already sent three good men that would be much needed here, I will not send more unless the Lord Commander himself commands me to do so.” Tobas Flowers shook his head as he spoke and Howard took couple quick steps and grabbed Tobas from his cloak. Howard was an athletic and tall young man whereas Tobas was old, short and plump.
“Do you understand at all what has happened, old man?” Howard hissed, staring Tobas with furious eyes.
“Let go of me, boy, or I'll have you hanged!” Tobas yelled, his face red, and Trystan decided to interfere. He took Howard by the shoulder and pulled him away from Tobas.
“Don't worry, Howard, I'm sure Shadow Tower has sent more men.” Trystan said calmly, but the look on Howard's face was confused.
“But how? How would have they known to send anyone? How did you know?” Howard asked and Trystan gave him a subtle smile.
“We didn't know that something so terrible had happened, but Maester Jon sent us a raven about his concerns on the situation about a week ago.” Trystan explained. “I'm sure he sent one to Shadow Tower as well.”
“Alright then.” Howard said quietly and let out a sigh. As they were all silent Trystan cleared his throat.
“Go, have a small rest and eat. Tomorrow we will ride towards Castle Black and take the situation under control.” Trystan said, trying to sound as confident as he could. It will not be easy.
No decision this time
Wow, this was great! Trystan, Broken and Ser Arthor. You hit the nail on the head with them, absolutely perfect! I have to say though, Tobas Flowers really does remind me of Janos Slint XD
Great part! Looking forward to the next one
Glad to hear you liked it!
And yeah, I didn't have Janos in my mind as I wrote, but now that you said it there certainly is a similarity
No worries though, Shadow Tower's commander will be a much cooler character 
Robett
The sky was clouded and the wind felt cold on Robett's face and the fingers that were wrapped around the dagger he had taken from the dead hands of Cruz. Robett coughed. Am I getting sick now? Great. Another abandoned fort could be seen in the distance. An old brown pony stomped forward on the right side of Robett, carrying the supplies. On the other side of it was Tom, a builder on his mid-thirties, who had joined Robett on this journey to Shadow Tower.
“And what is the name of that castle, Robett?” Tom asked with a gentle tone. Tom was a kind man, but he was also physically strong and threatening and Robett had found himself wondering what had this man done to end up at the Wall.
“This is the fourth one to west from Castle Black... So it's Icemark.” Robett answered with toneless words. The Icemark was a small fort on a flat field, its only tower had crumbled and overall it looked to be in a bad shape.
“It's a lot smaller than the last one... Nightfort, was it?” Tom asked and Robett nodded. “And in a bad shape too... I think we should keep going to the next one, there is still hours to the sundown.”
“Alright, but let's stop there. Just quickly.” Robett said and looked at Tom who didn't look to be so sure about it, but he nodded anyway.
“I hope this is not because you want to find those deserters, Robett.” Tom said as they walked towards the fort with their pony. As Robett didn't answer Tom let out a small sigh. “I understand your anger, young man. I have felt it too, more than once in my life. But you must remember that anger, fear and bitterness – those are not the paths that our gods want us to choose. I will never forget, nor forgive, what those traitors did that night, but I will leave it for the Seven to find judgement suitable for them.”
“But then... Wh- Where...” Robett stuttered, fighting against tears. “Where were the Seven gods that night?” Robett pressed his lips together and turned his bitter stare to Tom.
“In all the brothers who stayed true to their vows and defended each other.” Tom answered calmly. “The evil is in everyone of us, Robett, and without the guidance of the gods that evil takes hold of us – as has happened to these traitors.” As Robett stayed silent Tom tapped him gently on the back and gave him a warm smile. “You are a good boy, Robett. It is understandable to be sad on times like this, but you must remember that useless anger often leads only to more pain. Now let's go eat something and then we can continue our travel.” Robett nodded meekly, and so they entered the wrecked fort.
-
Robett was leaning on the cold stone. He hadn't ate much, but he hadn't truly been hungry either after leaving Castle Black. Tom was still eating his salted fish, whilst Robett looked around him. He wasn't sure when exactly had Icemark been abandoned, but clearly it had been a long time ago. Cold, sad and small castle – only wind whispering in the halls. As Robett was about to turn back to Tom he heard something. Something was moving – and it was close. Robett took out his dagger and looked to every direction. Tom looked at him from about twenty feet away.
“What is it Robett? Did you see something?” Tom's voice was more intrigued than concerned. Robett gulped.
“I heard something.” He answered with serious tone. Then in a shocking slam the door of the armory opened and a huge figure ran towards Robett with a hammer in its hand. It's Griff!
The mute giant came closer and closer to Robett with a terrorizing look in its eyes, and for a second Robett was about to froze because of his fear. At the last moment Robett found his feet and tried to dodge the swing of Griff's hammer, but it hit him in the chest. A pain flashed through him as he stumbled to the ground. Robett tightened his grip to the dagger, trying to overcome his fear.
As Robett turned his eyes to Griff he noticed that Tom had come to help with his sword. Unfortunately Tom wasn't very good with sword and his swings missed the target until Griff finally managed to disarm him. As the sword hit the ground Griff swung his hammer to Tom's right leg, making him scream in agony. Griff let out a terrible sound that was apparently meant to be laughing, but since the blacksmith didn't have tongue all that came out was a horrific scratching noise. That bastard... That fucking bastard!
As Griff was focused on Tom, Robett saw an opening. He clenched to his dagger and rushed towards Griff. With all his strength he plunged his dagger to the lower back of Griff. The huge man didn't not scream, but Robett could see the pain in his eyes. Take that, you arse!
As Griff turned to Robett the rage in the black eyes of the old man sent shivers down Robett's spine. He couldn't escape – Griff raised his fist. And the punch Griff threw at Robett sent him to the ground. Pain was blurring his sight. This is it. Robett closed his eyes, being sure that this would be his end.
“What in the hells is going on here?” Was screamed from somewhere. Soon Robett heard horses galloping around him. As he opened his eyes he saw six men of the Night's Watch on horseback surrounding him, Griff and Tom. One of the men was aiming at them with longbow and the rest had unsheathed swords.
One of the men, a handsome one with silver hair, strong jaw and violet eyes, dismounted his horse and walked closer to them with his sword up.
“Drop your weapons unless you want me to beat them out of your hands.” He said with strong words. “Not that I wouldn't enjoy it.” He added with a small smirk on his face. Tom dropped his sword immediately, and Robett didn't even have the dagger on his hands anymore. Griff looked at the men around them for a while, and then decided to drop the hammer.
“Let's solve this quickly.” The silver-haired man said with bored tone. “Are you deserters? Why are you fighting?”
“We are not deserters.” Tom answered sternly. “Me and the boy I mean... This man here is.” He pointed at Griff. The silver-haired man shook his head.
“This doesn't make sense.” He said and chuckled.
“Let me explain.” Robett spoke with timid words, and the man nodded to him. “Couple days ago a mutiny happened at Castle Black... Many died, Maester Jon as one of them. The rangers of Castle Black, well most of them, took their horses and rode after the deserters. Someone had to go to Shadow Tower so we decided to go. That man is a traitor and deserter, a murderer, his name is Griff. But we are not. He is Tom and I am Robett, personal steward of Lord Commander Jack Musgood.” For a while the silver-haired man looked at him doubtfully, until one of the other men spoke up.
“Commander Dayne, I think the name of this boy was mentioned in the message of Maester Jon.” The expression on the man's face changed.
“Yes... You are right. The message did mention Robett. I suppose we can trust you are speaking the truth then. I am Commander of Shadow Tower, Edric Dayne.” He said to Robett, and then turned his eyes to Griff, who had taken a couple steps backwards. “So this man is a traitor.”
“Yes.” Robett said with anger in his voice and Edric Dayne nodded to him.
“So be it, he will be executed here in the Icemark. Ser Lyonel, you can escort Robett and Tom to Shadow Tower and the rest of us will continue to Castle Black.” As Edric stopped speaking Griff rushed towards him, but it was clearly an act of desperation. Edric dodged his tackle smoothly and poked him to the back of his head with the pommel of the sword. And so Griff fell to his knees.
“Robett.” Edric said and looked at him to the eyes. “It's clear this man has done a crime against you. If you wish, you can be the one to kill him.” Edric had a smile on his face as he spoke. At first Robett was surprised of this offer, but then he started to feel the temptation. This man killed Maester Jon. This man did something terrible to Cruz. I want my revenge. As Robett raised his look he saw Tom looking at him straight to the eyes and shaking his head subtly.
[Kill Griff] [Leave the job for Dayne]
[Kill Griff]
[Kill Griff]
[Kill Griff]
I see no reason to leave this bastard for Dayne. Robett wants his vengeance and Robett shall get his vengeance.
[Kill Griff]
[Leave the job for Dayne]
[Kill Griff] I think Robett deserves his revenge, he is slowly changing. As for Griff, one must always be sad one his/her character comes to a conclusion, and for a moment there I felt sad for Griff as he had no hope in survival, but you know what? Deserters are deserters, so for the Watch I say.
[Leave the job for Dayne]