The sun had set by the time that Jon, Karyn, Arya and Mycah returned to the Inn. The four kids were laughing still at Karyn who was defeated many times that day by Arya in their play fights. At first it had been very tense for the Butcher's boy and the young Stark girl, sparring with the Prince, but after awhile, tensions ebbed away and laughter filled the field near the stream. Jon was encouraging Arya to let loose on Karyn, and laughed the loudest when Karyn was backed to the river and fell in. The quartet of laughing kids was, however, an odd sight to the battle worn man waiting for them.
"And where have you four been all day?" Ned Stark asked. The four children, hadn't seen him standing there, in the dark and all froze.
"Dad!" Arya shrieked, before running and embracing him in a hug. Ned stiffly returned the hug and looked at Karyn and Jon inquisitively.
"Your Grace," he addressed Karyn and then turned toward Jon "Sansa, I see that you're getting along well with your sister today. What foul sorcery is responsible for this change in attitude?" Karyn and Jon were in complete shock, wondering how he had found them out so quickly, before he smiled at them and laughed. "Whatever is responsible, I am thankful to see you all getting along! Now, let's get inside and eat, the King was wondering where you've been off to today."
Ned took Arya into the Inn, as Mycah said his goodbyes and ran off to find his father. Jon was about to follow the Hand of the King inside when he felt Karyn's hand on his shoulder.
"Jon," Karyn whispered to him "How long do you think we have to do this?" she seemed worried.
"I don't know, Karyn." Jon answered "It may be a while. We saved Mycah's life today, already the story has been changed. Hopefully it won't be too long... This dress is awkward to walk in, I don't want to be stuck in these stupid clothes for too long." he said as he lifted the skirt of the dress. Karyn smiled a his situation.
"I dunno, Jon." she said picking at her own clothes "I could get used to this. These pants are surprisingly comfortable." she giggled.
"Your Grace." a raspy voice called out from behind Jon as a large figure loomed over them. "Your mother has been looking for you." Jon squeaked as he turned around to see Joffrey's sworn sword, Sandor Cleagane's scarred face staring at him, lustfully.
"Oh Shit." Karyn said, similarly surprised by his sudden appearance. Sandor stood, and stared at them, waiting for Karyn to follow him. "Uh-um... I'll see you later, J--Sansa." Karyn said, as she lifted and kissed Jon's hand with a playful smile.
Jon watched as the towering man lead Karyn away, and he felt his heart beating rapidly in his chest.
"Jesus, that guy is frightening." he commented to himself.
