Of Lions, Wolves, and Dragons (Jon Snow)

41. The Wall

Jon had directed them into the castle and another man from the Night's Watch, who introduced himself as Edd, joined them.  They pointed out two rooms that were side-by-side and Jon said, "Brienne and Podrick, you can stay in these two rooms here.  They're small, but they are comfortable and they will be warm."

Brienne and Podrick both bowed down in thanks.  Brienne turned to Sansa saying, "You will know where to find me, my lady."

Sansa smiled at Brienne and thanked her, then Brienne turned to Joellyn and said, "Lady Martell, the same goes for you.  Do not hesitate to call if you need me."

Joellyn saw a look cross Jon's face, but she chose to ignore it and nodded.  She started to thank Brienne as well, but was interrupted by Edd saying, "Martell!?  Well, that solves a mystery that we had."

Joellyn cocked an eyebrow and questioned, "You had a mystery about the name Martell?"

Edd nodded, "Yes, my lady.  Some time ago, we received a letter addressed to a J. Martell.  No one knew who it was meant for.  The only Martell's we knew about were in Dorne."

Jon questioned Edd, "Why was I not notified of this?"

Edd shook his head, "Sam didn't think it was anything to concern you about.  You were dealing with the Wildings and Ser Alliser.  We just assumed the letter was missent, but Sam didn't want to get rid of it, just in case."

Jon nodded, and Joellyn questioned, "Could you get the letter for me?"  Joellyn was not sure who the letter would be from and she was anxious to see if it was news from Jaime.

Edd nodded and Jon told him, "She'll be in the room next to mine."  Edd nodded again and then headed off into the castle.

Jon continued walking deeper into the castle and said over his shoulder to them, "You should really pay attention to how to get to the rooms.  You don't want to get lost in here forever."

Joellyn was reminded of a time, that felt so long ago now, that Jon had escorted her back to her chambers in Winterfell after the feast.  He had said almost exactly the same thing to her then.  She smiled at the memory and hoped that he had said it the same way on purpose, "I feel sure that I will be able to learn my way, but I may have to trouble you a time or to to make sure I don't end up lost."

Jon chuckled and stopped by a door, opening it for her as he said, "I'm sure it will be no trouble, Lady Martell."

Joellyn was unsure of whether he had put emphasis on Lady Martell or if she had imagined it, but she suddenly felt shy in his presence.  She said softly, "Thank you, Lord Commander.  If I may ask, where will Sansa be staying?"

A strange look crossed Jon's face when Joellyn said 'Lord Commander', but it passed quickly and he responded, "She will be right next to you in my room.  These are the best two rooms in the castle."

Sansa objected, "Jon, I do not want you to give up your room for me.  I can share with Joellyn."

But Jon shook his head, "Sansa, you take it.  I will find somewhere else."

Sansa just nodded, and silence fell over the three of them before Joellyn said, "Sansa, we both need rest."

Jon nodded in agreement, "Aye, you do.  Supper will be served in a few hours."

Joellyn bowed her head and said to Sansa, "I will see you at supper, my friend.  Rest.  You are safe."

Sansa smiled and nodded and Joellyn thanked Jon one more time, "Thank you again, Lord Commander."

The strange look passed over his face again, but he bowed in response, so she entered her room to be alone.  As she closed the door, she could not really think of the last time she had truly been alone.  It had to have been in the inn after Arya had run away from them.  Joellyn dropped her pack on the floor and took in the surroundings.  It was small and bleak, but it was warm, and the bed at least looked for comfortable than the ground had been.  She sat on the bed and almost immediately she heard a knock on the door.  She groaned softly, stood, and went to open the door.