Northern at Heart [ GoT ]

F I V E

lady marla ashwood

MARLA KNEW ROBB WOULD NEVER LET HER LEAVE WINTERFELL NOW, and as much as it pained her to abandon the boy who loved her, she knew the only way to sneak out was while he was still asleep.

Last night was one of the best nights of her life, and no doubt his as well. But she needed to go while he was vulnerable, otherwise there would be no other chance.

She rolled out of bed as quietly as possible as to not wake the sleeping Stark. She wrapped herself in a silk robe and sat at her desk, fetching a quill and a vat of ink, as well as a slip of paper. She needed to write him a note, it was the least she could do to give him some consolation.

_
Dear Robb,

Last night was a dream. You were wonderful, and I want you to know I'm not leaving because of you, and I won't be gone forever. I've come to feel something for you, Robb Stark. Don't worry yourself too much, I'll be back before the winds of winter blow. I promise.

Love,
Marla of the House Ashwood
_

She dressed herself in a plain woolen dress and pulled a fur cloak over top to brace the cold, as well as braiding her two front pieces of hair back out of her face. She placed the letter on the bed next to the still sound-asleep Robb. She kissed his forehead and took one last lingering stare at the handsome young lord. "Goodbye," she whispered before exiting the chambers.

As she left the warmth of the Keep, a cool breeze blew the raven locks from her face. The sun was barely peeking from behind the horizon, and the courtyard was still deserted, so now was her time to leave without being noticed.

She made her way to the stables to saddle her horse, Aspen. To her surprise, not even the stableboys were working yet, which would make her departure much easier.

"What're you doing?" A hushed voice made Marla jump.

She turned around to find Theon, his usual scowl darkening his face.

"I'm going for a ride."

"Before sunrise? I don't think so. I'm getting Robb," the Greyjoy turned on his heels to find the acting Lord of Winterfell.

Marla grabbed his arm. "Theon, don't. Robb can't know I'm leaving. Not until I've gotten a head start."

"Leaving? Where are you going?" He asked, his face twisting in confusion.

"I'm going to Highgarden. I have family there. Just—please, Theon, let me leave. Don't say a word to Robb."

"I don't want to be involved in whatever schemes your planning," he shook his head defiantly, shaking his arm from Marla's grip.