Dragon Hidden in the Wolf's Shadow - Chapter - 44 (Patreon)

As the sun began its descent, casting golden hues across the landscape, the festival at Seagard came to an end. Lords and ladies packed their belongings, bidding farewell to one another, their spirits lifted by the excitement of the past few days. Jon Frost lingered a moment longer, watching as the last remnants of the celebrations faded away, knowing that soon the great hall would echo only with the whispers of the wind.

In the dim light of the castle’s meeting chamber, Jon gathered with Samwell Tarly and his father, Randyll Tarly. The air was thick with anticipation as they sat around a sturdy oak table, remnants of the feast still scattered about. Jon felt the weight of their gaze as he prepared to discuss the future.

“Thank you for staying, Sam,” Jon began, his voice steady. “I wanted to talk about your time here and the potential we can explore together for our houses.”

Sam nodded, his expression serious yet eager. “I’ve learned so much during the festival, Jon. It’s been unlike anything I’ve experienced before. I feel… different, like I can truly belong here.”

Randyll, seated beside his son, regarded Jon with a mixture of respect and curiosity. “Your people have welcomed us, Jon Frost. Sam has spoken highly of his time with the Northmen. The bond you’ve formed could benefit us both.”

Jon leaned forward, sensing the gravity of their conversation. “I believe we can forge a strong alliance, one that honors both House Frost and House Tarly. Your experience and our resources can create something formidable, especially in these changing times.”

The discussion continued, with Jon outlining potential trade routes and shared defense strategies. Sam chimed in, sharing his insights on the lands he had surveyed, and Randyll listened intently, nodding as he recognized the potential in the ideas presented.

As the meeting drew to a close, Jon felt a sense of accomplishment. They had laid the groundwork for a partnership that could strengthen their houses in the uncertain political landscape of Westeros.

After the meeting, Sam and Randyll prepared to depart for Horn Hill. Jon stood at the castle gates, his heart heavy with the knowledge that his friend would soon leave the North.

“Thank you for everything, Jon,” Sam said, his voice filled with sincerity. “You’ve changed my life here.”

Jon smiled, feeling a warmth in his chest. “You’ve earned your place among us, Sam. You’re not just Big Sam; you’re a Tarly. And your contributions will be remembered.”

Randyll Tarly stepped forward, his demeanor more serious. “Before we part, Jon, I wish to discuss my daughter, Dalla. She is of age, and I believe a union between our houses would solidify our alliance further.”

Jon met Randyll’s gaze, surprised by the unexpected proposal. “Lord Tarly, I—”

“Think on it, Jon,” Randyll interrupted, his tone firm yet respectful. “Dalla is a fine girl, well-suited for a man of your standing. I trust you will consider the matter carefully.”

“I appreciate your offer, Lord Tarly,” Jon replied, feeling the weight of the decision pressing upon him. “But I will need time to reflect on it. I promise to inform you of my decision in due course.”

With a nod of understanding, Randyll turned to his son. “Come, Sam. We must be on our way.”

As they departed, Jon watched them ride off into the distance, a mixture of emotions swirling within him. He was happy for Sam, proud of the man he had become, but he couldn’t shake the uncertainty that lingered regarding the proposed marriage.

Turning back toward the castle, Jon felt the responsibility of leadership heavy on his shoulders. The bonds he formed would shape the future, but he needed to tread carefully. With the weight of potential alliances and unspoken expectations hanging in the air, he resolved to seek clarity in his own heart before making any commitments.

As twilight enveloped Seagard, Jon walked through the castle, contemplating the choices ahead and the paths they could forge. The future was uncertain, but one thing was clear: he would fight to protect those he cared for, whether through alliances or in the pursuit of love. And in that resolve, Jon Frost found strength as he stepped into the night.

As the final echoes of the festival faded into the twilight, Jon Frost prepared for his own journey. He decided to travel through Greywater Watch, making his way to Moat Cailin. The land had much to teach him, and the connections he forged with the Reeds would only strengthen the North's resolve. He packed his belongings, feeling a sense of purpose wash over him as he thought of the adventures ahead.

To his surprise, Lord Howland Reed approached him as he gathered his things. “Jon,” he called out, his voice carrying a hint of excitement. “I would like to travel with you. The stories of your castle and the festival have stirred my spirit, and I would like to see Moat Cailin once again.”

Jon smiled, grateful for the company. “Your presence would be welcomed, my lord. I could use your wisdom on the journey ahead.”

As they prepared to set out, Jon’s siblings gathered around him, their expressions a mix of eagerness and determination. Arya, Rickon, and Brandon had been buzzing with excitement, but it was the news of Shadow’s pregnancy that truly ignited their enthusiasm.

“Jon, you have to promise us pups from Shadow!” Rickon declared, his eyes bright with hope. “I want one of her cubs!”

“Me too!” added Arya, her voice resolute. “Shadow is the best wolf, and she should have pups! We all need one.”

Brandon nodded vigorously. “It’ll be great! We can train them together!”

Jon chuckled at their fervor but held his ground. “If you can convince Shadow to give up her pups, then you are free to have one. But don’t think it will be easy. She is fiercely protective.”

The challenge only fueled their determination. The moment they were outside, Jon’s siblings descended upon Shadow like a pack of excited puppies, showering her with affection. They stroked her fur, whispered sweet nothings, and offered her treats.

Shadow, ever wise and perceptive, seemed to understand their intentions. With her belly swelling and the instinct to protect her young taking hold, she basked in their attention, accepting their affection with a regal air. Jon watched with a mixture of amusement and fondness, knowing that his siblings’ plans would be met with some challenges.

Even Sansa joined in, drawn by the allure of the soon-to-be pups. She approached Shadow cautiously, her demeanor softer than usual. “You’re going to be a mother soon, aren’t you?” she murmured, running her fingers through Shadow’s thick coat. “What a lovely family you’ll have.”

With her gentle voice and nurturing spirit, Sansa won over Shadow’s trust, who leaned into her touch. The siblings took turns grooming and pampering her, sharing excited whispers about what the pups might be like.

As they prepared for the journey, Jon felt a swell of warmth at the sight of his family bonding with Shadow. The wolf was not just a guardian; she was part of their family, and her pups would only deepen their connection.

Once they finally set out, Howland Reed riding alongside Jon, the excitement of the adventure mixed with the promise of new life filled the air. The journey through the forest was filled with laughter and spirited discussions about the pups and what names they would give them.

“Maybe we could name one after Father,” Rickon suggested, looking up at Jon with wide eyes.

“Or after someone brave,” Arya chimed in. “Like Nymeria!”

As they trekked deeper into the woods, Jon found himself smiling at their enthusiasm. The North was changing, and with it, the dynamics of their family. Shadow trotted beside them, her presence a constant reminder of their bond, her eyes glinting with a knowing intelligence.

“Tell me more about the pups, Jon,” Howland said, his voice low, though the playful tone of the children was contagious. “It seems they’ll bring much joy to the North.”

Jon nodded, his heart filled with pride. “They will. And with each new life, we find a way to honor our past while looking to the future.”

The day finally arrived when Shadow gave birth, and it was a moment filled with anticipation. Jon, Howland Reed, and the Stark siblings gathered in the makeshift den near the castle, their hearts pounding with excitement. They waited, barely able to contain their eagerness, until Shadow finally revealed her six pups—four robust males and two delicate females.

The sight of the tiny, squirming creatures brought gasps of joy from the Stark siblings. Their fur glistened in shades of gray and black, reminiscent of the ancient direwolves that had once roamed the North.

“Look at them!” Arya exclaimed, her eyes wide with wonder as she reached out a hand to gently stroke the nearest pup. “They’re beautiful!”

Jon knelt beside Shadow, a sense of pride swelling within him. “You did well, girl,” he murmured, affectionately running his fingers along her back. Shadow’s gaze met his, filled with a deep understanding of their shared bond.

With a little persuasion, Shadow began to allow her pups to venture out of the den. She seemed to recognize the importance of family, understanding that these pups would forge their own paths alongside the Stark children. After some coaxing and gentle nudges, Shadow allowed her children to be claimed by the eager Stark siblings.

“Rickon, you can have the biggest one!” Jon suggested, pointing to a playful male pup with a sturdy build.

Rickon’s face lit up. “Really? He’s perfect!” He scooped up the pup, cradling him against his chest. “I’ll name him Shaggydog!”

“Mine will be the smallest,” Sansa declared, choosing the littlest female, who nuzzled into her palm. “I’ll name her Lady.”

“I want a fierce name!” Arya interjected, grabbing a lively female pup. “How about Nymeria? She’s fast and fierce, just like me!”

“I’ll name mine after my favorite character!” Brandon said, carefully selecting a strong male pup. “I’ll call him Summer.”

“I want to name mine Ghost,” Jon said, pointing to a striking white male pup that had curled up next to him. “He’ll be my companion through it all.”

One pup will be sent to Robb as gift.
As they left the den, Jon felt a deep sense of contentment. This was what he had hoped for—a bond that would tie them together, forging stronger connections as they journeyed through life. Each pup represented not just a companion but a connection to the North’s storied past.

Days passed, and with every shared moment, the pups grew closer to their new families. They played in the fields surrounding Moat Cailin, their barks and howls echoing like the legends of old. Jon often joined in, watching with a heart full of joy as his siblings tumbled and wrestled with their direwolf companions.

“Do you think they will help us in our journeys?” Rickon asked one evening, watching as Shaggydog wrestled with Nymeria.

“Absolutely,” Jon replied, ruffling Rickon’s hair. “These pups will be more than just companions; they’ll be protectors, just like the direwolves of our ancestors. And together, we can explore the North and beyond.”

Jon’s hopes for the future blossomed like the flowers of spring. With each step they took alongside their new pups, he envisioned a time when the Stark family would strengthen alliances and connections across the realm.

As the sun set over Moat Cailin, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple, Jon felt a renewed sense of purpose. The pups were more than just animals; they were symbols of resilience, unity, and the enduring legacy of House Stark.

“Tomorrow,” he declared to his siblings, “we will explore the woods beyond Moat Cailin. The pups will help us learn the lay of the land, just as our forebears did.”

“Can we bring them to Greywater Watch, too?” Brandon asked, excitement bubbling in his voice. “I want to show them the marshes!”

Jon nodded, his heart swelling with pride. “Of course. The more they explore, the stronger they’ll become.”

As the night fell and the stars twinkled above, Jon knew that their adventures were only beginning. The bonds formed with the pups would echo through the years, and the legacy of the Starks, intertwined with the wild spirit of the direwolves, would endure for generations to come.