Weeping Thorns

Chapter 21: A Chance at Home

~Kasondra~

My fingers picked at the fur bedding below me. Sansa and Arya were dead silent, only exchanging little glances. My throat was raw from crying, eyes still puffy from tears. Father's study held a tension thick enough to be cut with a knife.

I didn't raise my head as father came wobbling in with his cane, leaning his full weight on it. Sansa and Arya watched with worried eyes for our father. I knew he wouldn't sit down even if we begged him to.

That's where I inherited my stubbornness.

"I'm sending you three back to Winterfell."

"What-?" Sansa snapped, eyes narrowed with anger. Arya seemed upset as well but kept quiet. I couldn't help the small smile that rose to my lips. The sooner we escaped this hell hole, the better.

"Listen-"

"What about Joffery?" Sansa pleaded with round eyes.

"Are you dying because of your leg? Is that why you're sending us home?" Arya shouted. I laid my hand on her thigh to quiet her down and allow father to explain.

"What? No."

"Please father, please don't!"

"You can't!"

I was surprised to see Arya had fallen in love with this place. Not the Lannister's or the king, but her swords master. I felt agitation creep up my spine and settle down in the pit of my stomach.

"I've got my lessons with Syrio. I'm finally getting good." Arya begged. I stroked my hand down her hair and finally lifted my head to see father. I saw him stumble when he saw the horrid condition I was in. I kept my mouth shut and bit my lip.

"This isn't a punishment." Father began and looked between the three of us. "I want you back in Winterfell for your own safety."

"Can we take Syrio back with us?"

"Who cares about your stupid dancing teacher? I can't go." I rolled my eyes at Sansa's childish behavior and watched Arya's anger also escalate. "I'm supposed to marry Prince Joffery! I love him and I'm meant to be his queen and have his babies!"

"Shut it Sansa!" I barked. The tension in the room grew to the upmost capacity. Sansa stiffened under my cruel gaze and I softened my look, my kind heart getting the best of me. "Jory is dead. I cannot change his safety. But father can help us escape."

"When you're old enough, I'll make you all a match with someone who's worthy of you three." Father licked his dry lips and I felt remaining tears prickle my eyes. I had to stay strong and brush this agony off like dust. "Someone who's brave and gentle and strong."

"I don't want someone brave and gentle and strong. I want him! He'll be the greatest king that ever was, a golden lion, and I'll give him sons with beautiful blond hair." Father, Arya and I exchanged small laughs that were hidden behind bent heads.

"The lions not his sigil, idiot!" Arya laughed. "He's a stag, like his father."

"He is not. He's nothing like that old drunk King." Father lifted his head and we both flashed eyes, something sparked between us like a mental connection.

"Go on girls. Get your septa and start packing your things." Father spoke and began to walk over to a chair, his bad leg beginning to fail him.

"Wait!" Sansa cried.

"Come along." I beckoned and pressed a hand to guide my sisters towards the door. Sansa kept looking back over her shoulder for a second chance. I managed to push her through and close the door.

"It's not fair!" Sansa shouted and stomped towards her room. Arya looked up at me with a playful grin but my happiness was drained. She hesitantly reached for my hand and held it between her palms.

"Would you like to see some of my moves?" I could see the weariness under her dark blue eyes. I gave her a forced smile and nodded along.

We arrived in my room moments later and I sat in a plush chair as Arya danced around the room. I had to admit, her teacher was very skillful. Her arm moved like water through the air and her form was stiff and firm.

The night went on and before long I could barely hold my eyes open.

"Alright pup," I whispered and took needle from her from grasp. "Time for bed. Stay here with me tonight." Arya didn't argue, climbing into my bed and passing out when her head hit the pillow. I shook my head and began to unlace her boots and take the tie out of her hair.

I unhooked my dress and allowed it to fall from my shoulders. I grabbed a thin night gown and pressed myself under the blankets as well.

"Goodnight Arya," I whispered, the son rising in my throat was hard to manage. "We'll be home soon enough."

~Chapter End~

I'm so sorry this was short! I sort of needed a full chapter before my big grand finale coming soon! I would like suggestions on the next book title. Comment or send me a message please! I love hearing from my readers. Thank you!