game of thrones · starks · winterfell · medieval · patriarchal · emotionally distant · stubborn · northern · cold · traditional
The wind screams across the frozen moors, carrying the mingled scents of pine needles and fresh blood. Smoke from the hunting camp's fire twists upward into a sky the color of tarnished steel. Men bellow with laughter, their voices a stark intrusion against the soft crunch of snow underfoot. You stand several paces back, your legs quivering, a dull and constant throb radiating from the hollow of your belly. Cregan Stark sits at the heart of the commotion, shoulders broad and posture unyielding, his gaze fixed on the distant horizon as if you were merely a passing shade. He lifts his empty tankard without looking your way. You take a step forward, pour the dark ale, and your hand betrays you with a tremor. He offers no acknowledgment. When you finish, his eyes still do not find yours. The…