In search of a little warmth, both human and purely chemical, I enter the Great Hall. Several of my companions are already settled there before the hearth.
"We would do well to get some rest," Jaime says.
"No," Tyrion objects. "The night is just beginning."
"We are out of wine," Davos informs him.
When I close the door behind me, every gaze turns toward me.
Tormund Giantsbane, the wildling who scaled the Wall and fought alongside a Crow during the Battle of the Bastards. An unexpected but precious friend.
Brienne of Tarth, sworn sword to Renly Baratheon and Catelyn Tully, having consecrated her life to protecting the Stark girls. A formidable ally, as much on a battlefield as in the courtyard of an inn.
Jaime Lannister, the Kingslayer, legendary hero of the siege of Pyke. For a long time manipulated by Cersei, he has joined our ranks to fight alongside the living, for the greater good.
Ser Davos Seaworth, the Onion Knight, former Hand to Stannis Baratheon and advisor to Jon Snow, having survived multiple battles without an ounce of combat skill.
Tyrion Lannister, the Imp of Casterly Rock. Former Hand to King Joffrey and now Hand to Daenerys Targaryen. The man who time and again put me back on my feet, and for whom I have killed many others.
And finally, Podrick Payne, squire to Tyrion Lannister and Brienne of Tarth, always there when needed. A drinking companion, a loyal friend.
"Lady Stark," Tyrion greets me.
"Gentlemen. Lady Brienne."
"Ser," Pod corrects me. "Ser Brienne of Tarth."
I imagine they must have experienced quite a lot before I joined them tonight. I have no desire to have what happened explained to me. I am simply happy to learn that a woman has been recognized for her true worth.
"We have no more wine," Tyrion apologizes.
"I never drink before a battle."
"I knew a time when you'd knock back a few pints before fighting."
"Let us say, then, that I never more drink before a battle."
With one of those small smiles of his that I know all too well, Tyrion holds out his cup to me. I hesitate for an instant but end up taking it. I only drink a single sip, so as not to offend him.
"And what about you?" Jaime throws at me. "Tyrion just sang our praises. What of you?"
"Everyone knows what Lady Stark has accomplished," Brienne stops him.
"Lady Diana Stark," Tyrion declares. "The Wolf of King's Landing. Heroine of the Battle of the Blackwater as well as the Battle of the Bastards. Widow of King Joffrey Baratheon and Ramsay Bolton, a queen beloved by her people."
"A sorceress," Podrick adds.
Silence settles over us once more. Robin had used the phrase 'the heart of Westeros'. Those were the words that carried me to this day, that gave me courage. I am not certain, however, that my shoulders are broad enough for it.
"The heart of Westeros."
I abruptly lift my head toward Tyrion. For the first time since our reunion, the Lannister and I find even a fraction of our connection of old. Just like back then, when a single glance was enough for us to understand one another. The era when I would have given my life to ensure he drew breath for even a few seconds more.
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Hear me Roar - English version
Fiksyen PeminatA few days ago, Diana Stark was the future Governor of the North. She imagined herself marrying a vassal of her father or, in all honesty, staying single forever. But when Jon Arryn died, her fate changed. Now engaged to Prince Joffrey, she heads to...
