The Lord of Ice and Fire - Chapter 8 - Jon Snow the Squire (Patreon)

Jon collapsed onto the roof, a combination of relief and his muscles finally giving out. He did not realize he was trembling until his cousin came over and put his hand on Jon’s shoulder.

“Jon, are you alright?”

Jon took a deep breath, attempting to buy him a couple seconds and allow him to compose himself. “I am fine, better than fine now. I am so glad to see you are alright.”

Bran looked at Jon and smiled, “I always climb the buildings, you known you do not need to worry about me.”

Jon smiled sadly at Bran, “Aye, you are always alright until the one time you are not. Something just felt different about today.”

“Nothing would ever happen to me in Winterfell, I have been climbing these walls since I could walk. And father said that once we get to King’s Landing I will have to stop, it is not becoming of a knight, and I will no longer be a little boy. So wanted to get the last of my climbing in before we left. And I have no one else to really hang out with. Arya is with Sansa and Septa Mordane practicing her needlework, Tommen is receiving private lessons with Maester Luwin, and you…well you are always off by yourself, just angry at everyone.”

Jon froze realizing that Arya was not the only one he had hurt while trying to keep his distance, “I am so sorry Bran, and I am not angry, definitely not angry at you. It has just been a difficult couple of weeks. I had been trying to figure some things out…I still am really. But you will always be my little brother and I could never be angry at you. Plus, we are going south together tomorrow and I had hoped to spend some time together on the road…otherwise who else will I be riding with…Sansa?”

With that they both laughed, and Bran closed the distance and embraced Jon in a hug, “I am glad you are not angry, and we will get to ride together.”

Jon hugged Bran back before releasing him and stepping back, “Of course, we will spend time together. Eventually you shall become a famous knight and have little time for me.”

Bran looked pleased at the compliment before his face fell, “I promise I will always have time for you Jon, you are family.”

This time it was Jon who leaned forward to embrace Bran to prevent him from seeing the emotions on his face. “Thanks, little brother, now rather than climbing walls by yourself, what say you help me with a task I wanted to get completed before I left?”

Bran smiled, “I would love that, where are we off to?”

Jon opened his mouth to reply, before Bran appeared to startle as if remembering something and interrupted.

“Actually, I think there were two people in the First Keep talking about father.”

Jon looked back to the edge of the building Bran had been leaning over with a glare, thinking about how close Bran had come to falling, “I would not worry about it Bran, I am sure there are a lot of people talking about father, … he is an important man you know,” Jon said forcing out a laugh.

“But they were in the First Keep, no one ever goes to the First Keep, I was trying to see who they were when you called out to me” Bran tried to push his point.

“Aye and if they were in the First Keep, they were probably looking for privacy and did not want a little nosey seven-year-old snooping around,” Jon said pointedly.

Bran had the decency to try and look embarrassed, “That’s fair,” he said reluctantly. His expression than brightened and he looked over towards Jon, “So what are we off to go do? Sword fighting?”

Jon looked at Bran, smiled, and in his most serious tone he replied, “We are going to help Arya with her Needle-work.”

Jon could not hold back a laugh as he watched in real-time as Bran’s happy expression fell to be replaced by one of abject horror.

With that, Jon turned around, refusing to elaborate, and sensing that an extremely reluctant Bran was following him, proceeded to head back towards the guards keep to safely get down to the ground, before leading him to visit Mikken to pick up a package.

After picking up the package, Jon and Bran headed to the training yard to practice until lunch. While Jon did not pick up a sword, he taught Bran techniques and training exercises that he had picked up over the years. By the time they left Bran was smiling, happy to have had the chance to spend time with Jon.

After working up an appetite, they decided to go to lunch together. As Lady Stark was not in the Great Hall, Bran decided to sit with Jon on one of the benches, as they enjoyed their meal talking about what was in store for them for the journey down to King’s Landing and then what awaited them within the capital. While Jon was surely animated while talking to Bran about the trip to the capital, he could not remember what happened to the city and all of its inhabitants the last time he entered the castle.

Bran seemed to be aware of Jon’s mood change and did not press but focused on talking about the idea of becoming a squire and talking about what expectations would be instore for the children of the Hand of the King.

After lunch, Maester Luwin appeared and informed Bran that he would be joining Tommen for afternoon classes. After making Jon promise that he would not continue to be distant, especially on their ride south, Bran accompanied the maester.

Realizing there was nothing pressing for him to do until his conversation with his uncle after they returned from the hunt, Jon decided to head to the Godswood with Ghost. When they arrived in the Godswood, Jon was welcomed by the deep sense of peace that always seemed to accompany the space.

For Jon, this feeling was routed in the familiarity and connection it brought about his family. While he was still not sure how he felt about being a Targaryen, especially based on Stark/Targaryen history and seeing what Daenerys had been capable of, he took pride in his Stark ancestry. Jon knew that while not perfect the Starks were honorable individuals who stood firmly behind the ideas and people they believed in, a trait that both Ned and Benjen fully displayed. While it hurt that he had suffered emotionally due to being brought to Winterfell under the guise of being Ned’s bastard, he knew that it was a reasonable excuse, that allowed Ned to keep Jon close and explained any attention paid to him. While the action itself was certainly out of character for Ned Stark, no one would have reason to believe he lied, especially once Jon began to grow and resembled a Stark, and only a Stark, more and more with each passing day.

Jon and Ghost curled up at the base of the central weirwood tree and relaxed, planning to stay here until the hunting party returned. Unsure how much time had passed, Jon was startled by a slight sound off to his right which caused him to jump to his feet immediately, fully alert as he tried to identify the cause of the sound.

“And here I thought I was good at what I do,” Benjen Stark said with a laugh clapping his hands together. “Well done, Jon, I have managed to sneak within feet of Wildling patrols. Perhaps the Night’s Watch will seriously regret not having you join.”

Jon smiled at his uncle, “Good to see you uncle I am glad to have run into you. This morning I was in a little bit of a hurry.”

“A little bit of a hurry, it looked like you were being chased by The Black Dread himself.”

Jon chuckled, “Nothing so intense as that, but I am happy to have a proper chance to say goodbye before we both leave going our separate ways tomorrow.”

Benjen smiled at his nephew, “Aye so am I, I want you to know I did not mean anything by those words at the feast. I know how you much you have had to deal with over the years because of the status. I hope one day…well I hope one day you do not have to deal with people addressing you as such. I hope one day people will judge you for the man you are. While it is true that I will miss you up north, I am happy you have the chance to head south and wish you make the most of the opportunity to make something of yourself.”

Jon paused, initially speechless as he was not expecting so sentimental, “You have nothing to apologize for uncle, I know you meant nothing by it and it is not as if I have not heard much worse before. I am sorry for storming out. I have been talking to Tyrion Lannister.”

Jon paused as Benjen raised his eyebrows.

“Aye Tyrion Lannister, he is a good man. I am sure you will enjoy riding with him to the Wall, please do look out for him. But he provided context to my plight, and I am trying to incorporate his advice.”

Benjen looked on Jon a little skeptically but conceded, “I guess if anyone could understand being treated the way some people treat you, it might be Tyrion Lannister. Although be wary of the Lannisters Jon. They are powerful and ruthless, and will stop at nothing to achieve their goals.”

Jon nodded, “I do not doubt your words, but do not fear, I have no plans to get in bed with any of the Lannisters.”

Benjen laughed and smiled at Jon, “Well that is a good plan, I believe they are all spoken for anyways. Queen Cersei with the King, Ser Jaime with his job, and Tyrion with his alcohol.”

Jon laughed, “Aye that sounds just about right. I will miss you Uncle, I hope you stay safe. I was wondering if you couple make me a promise though.” Jon asked as he became serious.

Benjen looked at Jon, “I guess it depends on what you ask, but at the very least I could hear you out.”

“I know you are First Ranger and have responsibilities to the Night’s Watch and the realm, but I want you to promise that you will be safe and avoid risks when you can. If you can promise this, I can promise that when the day comes if and when the Night’s Watch needs help, I will be there and I will try my hardest to make sure that anything you need is provided.”

Benjen paused and looked at Jon suspiciously, “What is it you know?”

Jon looked at Benjen, wanting to tell him everything, but knowing deep down that if he tried, he would be forced to answer questions he could not answer truthfully, certainly none that would be believed by any reasonable person. Therefore, he looked at his uncle and tried to keep his most honest face as he replied, “Nothing, however I just have a horrible feeling that things are happening North of the Wall and times are going to get worse after this Summer, I am worried for the Winter.”

Benjen paused before replying in a measured tone, “I promise to be cautious; things indeed appear to be happening North of the Wall and there is worry among the Watch that we are not properly supplied or garrisoned for what comes next. There are rumors that the Wildlings are massing as they never have before but there is worry…well no need to worry you. You shall be safe and warm in King’s Landing. I am only a little jealous of this fact. However, I am the First Ranger and there is indeed much for me to do, I have my responsibilities and I will make sure that no matter what the cost I will carry them out.”

Jon nodded, fearing that would be his uncle’s response. Just as Jon could not sit idly by and let harm come to his family, he supposed that there was nothing he could say, and certainly no proof he could offer, that would convince his uncle not to go north of the wall on a future ranging. For indeed sending anyone else in his stead would not be sending the right man for the job. If there was something out there that was a danger to Benjen then there is no one else, except maybe Qhorin, who would be able to handle it. And what right did Jon have to save his uncle while dooming one of his brothers, knowing that is a trade Benjen would never make. With a sign, Jon realized that warning Benjen of a generic risk was likely the best outcome for this chat and pulled his uncle in for a hug.

“I love you uncle, do be careful.”

Benjen returned the hug. After several seconds they released the hug. Jon saw that his uncle was smiling, “I always am.” Benjen replied with a chuckle.

Before Jon could reply, they were interrupted by the sound of trumpets coming from the direction of the main courtyard, which caused both of them to look in that direction.

“Looks like the hunt returns, judging by the hour I assume they were successful, otherwise they would have stayed out later. I cannot imagine King Robert would admit to defeat by returning without the boar he has been exclaiming about for the last couple days. Well, I hear you have a meeting with my brother, you best be off. Ned Stark is not really one known to wait around, so I imagine he will not stay in the courtyard for long.”

Jon nodded and turned to head out of the Godswood, stopping after several feet to look back at his uncle as he started speaking.

“I hope you take care down south. Starks are not meant to be below the Neck, we historically do not do well down there. However, perhaps if you stick together this trip will turn out alright. Personally, I wish you all the best while you are down there I hope you …well I hope you do your family proud. Take care nephew, I look forward to seeing you again.”

Jon nodded at his uncle before exiting the Godswood, heading in the direction of The Lords Solar, under his breath he mumbled, “I really hope to have the opportunity to see you again as well uncle. May the Gods look after you.”

Jon Snow sat quietly across the desk from Ned Stark, as the Stark patriarch seemed content to stare and evaluate the boy. Unsure how to start the conversation Jon remained silent.

Eventually Ned broke the silence, “I was informed you had another duel with Ser Jaime Lannister and your performance was even better than last time.”

Unsure what he was expecting Jon decided this was definitely not the start to the conversation he expected, “Ser Jaime seemed to think it was better although I was not able to land a blow on him this time...” Jon paused, “I thought you had wanted to talk to me about my future?”

“Aye, that I am, however I believe your increase in your sword fighting ability has made my job easier. As for the duel itself, while it is sometimes disheartening and you may feel worse when fighting a much superior opponent, sometimes even if you are unable to earn a strike on them you may still have had a good fight. While I may not personally like Ser Jaime … even I can admit he is a gifted swordsman. If he says you were better, then I would tend to agree with his view of the fight.”

Jon smiled due to the praise.

Ned looked at Jon and began, “As for your future…I first want to apologize again for what you had to endure …due to my choices. You did not deserve the way you were treated. If things had been different… you would have had a much different life. But all I can hope, is that you believe me when I beg your forgiveness and hope you believe me when I say I did what I did for your safety and due to a promise to someone who I loved… For what it is worth I believe that all things considered, things turned out better for you than they would have had I not done what I had done.”

Ned paused and looked sadly at Jon, “But I am not here to try and defend my actions in the past but discuss your future going forward. I have been talking to King Robert and I am sure you have heard that the point of his visit was to recruit me as the Hand of the King. While originally, I was…very hesitant to accept the offer, I eventually agreed to accept the offer…although there are several reasons for this beyond helping my friend …that I cannot go into. However, I did attach conditions onto my acceptance. One of the conditions of coming south with him and taking on the role of the Hand of the King concerned you, a condition that only became easier to swallow based on the outcome of your fights with Ser Jaime Lannister.”

Ned took a breath to collect himself before continuing, “While of course it depends on the member in question, in general it is not common for the Kingsguard to take on personal squires, usually a right reserved only for the rarest of occasions, especially in times of peace. However, one of the conditions that King Robert has agreed to is that you will be taken on as a squire by Ser Barristan Selmy, pending an evaluation of yourself by Ser Barristan. If he finds you worthy you shall be his personal squire and get to experience all that entails.”

“I highlight that this is a rare honor, Ser Barristan is an exemplary knight and even better individual and under him you will be exposed to things that most people would have no idea much less a hope to experience. He is one of the best fighters in the world and when not busy with your duties will have the opportunity to be mentored under him. You will have the chance to learn the way of the court and Gods willing should you prove yourself you will eventually be knighted by a member of the Kingsguard.”

Jon looked at his uncle speechless. While certainly he had hoped that he would have the chance to be brought south and have the chance to squire for someone of note, allowing him to stay close to the happenings in the Red Keep, this was beyond his wildest dreams. He had the opportunity to squire for the Lord Commander of the Kingsguard and likely would have the opportunity to attend Small Council meetings or at least hear what was being discussed and or decided from the perspective of someone who was experienced with politics. While he personally was not in favor of meeting or interacting to any extent with Littlefinger or even Pycelle, he felt that the trade off would be worth it.

Ned Stark continued, “While there are possibly a couple members of the Kingsguard that I am unsure as to why they were appointed, there is likely no better knight in the realm than Ser Barristan. I hope this can make up for what you have had to endure, I…”

Jon Snow did not wait for Ned Stark to finish his sentence as he jumped to his feet and ran around the desk to embrace his uncle.

“This is more than I could have ever hoped for. I did not know what to expect when we had conversed earlier in the hallway, however this is so much more than I would have ever dared hope for.”

Ned Stark smiled at Jon and returned the embrace, “I am glad this opportunity receives your approval.”

Jon laughed as he returned to his seat, “That and more. I promise that I will make the most of this opportunity. I will use this opportunity to make the most of myself so I can make a difference for Westeros. I will not let you down, I hope one day people will be glad to acknowledge me for what I achieve, and my actions will reflect well on my family.”

Ned Stark smiled and let Jon know that he would need to be prepared for tomorrow, for he would be under greater scrutiny starting tomorrow on the journey south as the King is likely to start spreading the word, before it is officially announced once they reach the Red Keep.

“Am I able to share the news?” Jon asked.

Ned nodded and with a laugh replied, “Aye, I imagine I would be unable to stop you even if I had wanted to. Although perhaps do not feel the need to share with everyone and anyone within earshot though. I would get your conversations done quickly though, I am sure the feast shall be soon to start, and I am sure you will want to celebrate this decision.”

Jon smiled, eager to talk to Robb and proceeded to head to the door. As he was leaving, he overheard Ned whispering under his breath, “Your family is proud of you and your mother would be as well.”

Kind Regards,

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