ℍ𝕚𝕤 𝔹𝕒𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕣𝕕 𝕝𝕠𝕧𝕖𝕣 | 𝐻𝑜𝓊𝓈𝑒 𝑜𝒻 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒟𝓇𝒶𝑔𝑜𝓃

13

As they traveled further north, the weather became harsher. Her curly hair became covered in white particles she wasn't familiar with. Into her gloved hand that was raised into the air, she cupped some of the icy powder that began to melt. Though she wore warm clothing, it felt light in comparison to the chilly air that made them shiver. 

To secure a safe landing, Moondancer and Vermax dug their nails deeply into the ground with a loud 'thud'. Baela helped Cerys descend the beast, and Jace followed them as they set out for Winterfell.

"Open the gates!"

A guard shouted while gears clanked and ropes tugged on the opposite side of the stone wall before the large wooden gates opened. Horses and handmaidens were revealed in abundance. Cerys covered her body with her warm coat while Baela held Jace's hand. Although she was still slightly shivering, she attempted to compose herself so that she could demonstrate her great strength to the Warden of the North. 

"He shall be here in a moment, your graces" 

A Servant had informed them, quickly curtsying before excusing themselves. Cerys grew worried and looked around continuously in hopes of seeing him. She was curious about his appearance, as he was depicted as beastly-looking. Tales of him being a valiant warrior and a master with a sword. She didn't fear him appearing unattractive, but rather his personality. 

Tired of waiting, she took off her glove from her right palm, reaching up to the white biting snow that burned her skin. She thought it to be fascinating, for it to feel so cold against her skin. She'd felt nothing of the sort before. 

"I see you are enjoying the snow" 

Cerys was startled by the deep voice that spoke to her. She turned to see a man with dark brown eyes, his hair long and wavy. He was very handsome and well-built. Most importantly, he was Cregan Stark. 

"your graces, I apologize for my tardiness" 

He announced, slowly bowing his head. His gaze shifted to the three of them, finally landing upon the girl he was to marry. Cerys, who seemed taken aback by his handsome appearance, blinked through her thoughts. 

"All is well, lord Stark" 

Jace spoke out for Cerys, quickly exchanging a handshake with the warden. 

"Lady Strong, it is a pleasure to finally be in your presence" 

His large ungloved palm lifted her soft one to his lips, pressing a tender kiss onto her skin. A romantic gesture that created a slight blush across her face. 

"As do I, my lord" 

She replied, smiling back at him. They both looked at one another until he called over a nearby servant. 

"I am aware that you all are unfamiliar with our weather in the Noth." 

the Servant began to approach them,

"Please ensure they are all given warm clothing and--" 

He paused, whispering discreetly to the servant. 

"Fetch a warm shoulder pelt of mine suitable for Lady Strong" 

The servant girl nodded her head before her attention was brought to the rest of them and curtsied. Cerys was brought back to Cregan as he spoke, 

"You all must be tired and starved, there is supper awaiting us in the dining room." 

Cerys watched as he offered his arm to her, and she gladly accepted. The tension grew between them, the snow crunching under their boots until they reached inside.