Game of Thrones: Land of My Fathers

Chapter 3: It's Time

Winterfell–Lord Stark's Chambers–Afternoon...

In Lord Stark's office, Ned Stark and William Corvin sit across from each other, having a good conversation. The two mostly talk about their daily life, their children, childhood memories, adventures, battles, and Robert's Rebellion, as much as Ned rarely talks about his past to others except for his childhood friend William. William is the man he trusts to keep his secret and protect his family from danger.

Pouring a flagon of ale into the two goblets, William passes a cup to Ned, who takes the drink and nods.

"Thank you."

"You're welcome," William takes a sip from his goblet. "Your children have grown since I last saw them."

Ned sips his drink. "Aye, they'll grow to be great Lords and Ladies."

"And Jon?"

Ned Stark lets out a sigh when his bastard son is mentioned. "His future is uncertain. Jon may not have my name, but he has my blood. He's family."

"What does Catelyn say about that?"

Ned stayed silent for a moment. "I can't say... My lady wife still doesn't see Jon as one of her own."

William knows Catelyn Stark's nature very well regarding bastards or her natural children. She is from the South and a big believer in the Faith of the Seven. William will never understand the Faiths and their customs. The Andal's gods have so many rules, and they see bastards and magic as sins. He never like it.

"She may be your lady wife and my friend, but she needs to understand that Jon is just a boy who needs a mother to look after him when you're not around. She can't treat him like he's a lowborn."

Ned rests his chin on the palm of his hand. " I know, sometimes I don't know why she can't treat Jon like a son. She could be harsh on him sometimes, but later on, she'll grow out of it. I hope."

"You know that will never happen, my friend. Catelyn is a stubborn woman when it comes to bastards." William thought before speaking. "Whatever you say, Ned. But I have a proposition for you."

"What are you proposing?" Ned was concerned

"If you allow me to take Jon under my wing for a month or two, I'll have him get to know my son, Lucian, and we'll go on an adventure here in the North. It'll help him escape Catelyn's shadow and find his destiny when he grows up. My son and yours will be great friends in the future."

"That sounds like a great offer, William. I like that idea. Your guidance and training will help Jon's spirit and prepare him for when he gets older. But I'm afraid that has to wait."

"What is it?"

"There has been grave news in Lannisport-"

*Knock*

*Knock*

*Knock*

Somebody was knocking on the door, cutting off their chat.

"Come in," Ned calls out.

The door opens, revealing Ser Rodrik entering the room and closing it after walking in. The old knight respectfully bows his head to Lord Stark.

"Begging my pardon, my lord." Ser Rodrik quickly apologizes. "Your son, Jon, has snuck out of the castle."

The two adults stood up from their seats.

"Where is he?" Ned asks worriedly.

"He's at the courtyard but didn't come alone."

"The lad wasn't alone?" William ask.