Chapter 54 - Winterfell 05.

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[Chapter Size: 3800 Words.]

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Third Person POV

Winterfell, 292 AC, Next Morning.

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The following day, Jon rose before the first meal and headed to the gate. He passed the guards, nodding to the few already on duty, who allowed him through, and made his way towards the forest to visit his wolf, Ghost, in the Wolfwoods.

Upon entering the forest, Jon felt a sense of calm and familiarity. The air was fresh and the sound of birds created a gentle melody that morning. He didn't call his companion through their link; he wanted to enjoy a morning walk, leading him deeper into the forest.

After a few minutes of walking, he found Ghost. The giant wolf lay there, his white fur under his armor shining in the sunlight filtering through the forest canopy. Sensing Jon's presence, Ghost lifted his head, his red eyes glowing with recognition.

Jon approached and knelt beside Ghost, gently stroking his soft fur. "Good morning, friend, it's been a few days since I've seen you," Jon said softly. Ghost responded with a soft growl of contentment, his tail wagging lightly in front of the tiny child.

Jon spent time there, simply enjoying Ghost's company, away from the complexities and tensions of the castle. He talked to the wolf, sharing simple thoughts, as if Ghost could understand every word. Their bond was strong, transcending the usual relationship between a human and an animal.

After some time, Jon stood up, knowing he needed to return to the castle. He had already missed the first meal, so he wanted to return before his father became worried. Jon looked at Ghost and began to exchange a few more words with the wolf. "Ghost, we'll stay in Winterfell for a few more days," Jon explained, looking into the wolf's red eyes. "I think it's best to take off your armor for now. You'll be more comfortable without it here."

The wolf seemed to look grateful at these words, and Jon had him stand up before mounting him. "Let's go," Jon said, and he and his wolf started towards the forest exit.

Jon emerged from the forest with his wolf and guided him to Winterfell. His presence understandably unsettled the gate guards, but Jon didn't enter, just waiting for his father to clear the way. Having discussed this with Lord Stark the

day before, he asked to bring Ghost to the castle stable to remove his armor. Despite people's fright at the wolf's presence, Ned knew how controlled Ghost was by Jon and trusted Jon's abilities after all he had seen in recent years.

As Jon led Ghost, the giant wolf clad in his imposing armor, through the castle gate, the reaction from the castle folk was immediate and palpable. Workers, guards, and servants stopped what they were doing, staring at the majestic creature they had seen a few days ago. Some quickly moved away, their faces a mix of fear and surprise, while others stood still, simply stunned by the sight.

Children peeked from behind doors and windows, their eyes wide with wonder. Murmurs and whispers spread quickly among the gathering crowd, filled with speculations and stories about the giant wolf and its owner.

Jon led Ghost to the stables. Upon their arrival, Hodor, who was arranging some tools, looked up and jumped back, dropping the tools with a clatter, his eyes wide at the sight of Ghost, startled by the presence of the giant wolf. "Hodor!" he exclaimed, a mix of fear evident, and ran to hide inside the stable.

Jon quickly tried to calm the giant man. "Hodor? Are you okay? Sorry for the scare, but don't worry, Ghost won't hurt you. He's a good wolf," Jon said, trying to soothe the gentle giant.

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