Continue with Catelyn and Mordane

By the fifth week, the land begins to change. The air grows colder. The road is harder, but the end is closer.

A swollen ford slows the wagons. The men grunt as they push through, water to their thighs. Catelyn’s horse balks at the current, nearly pitching her into the stream.

You’re there, steadying her reins, your body shielding hers from the rush. She grips your arm, holding longer than she needs to. When she finds her seat again, she doesn’t let go right away.

From the bank, Mordane watches. Her mouth tightens, but she looks away quickly.

[+5 Trust | +10 Affection]

Lady Catelyn: Trust: 60 | Affection: 55

Septa Mordane: Temptation: +10 | Piety -10

Septa Mordane: Temptation: 35 | Piety: 55

Two nights later, Mordane approaches you by the fire. Her face is sharp, but her voice isn’t steady.

“You are too close to her,” she hisses. “She is a noblewoman, a wife. You think I don’t see how you look at her?”

You keep your voice calm. “I protect her. I protected you too.”

Her lips tremble. Anger mixes with something else that she doesn’t want to admit. “Do not speak of that night.”

You step closer, just enough to make her feel the heat. “You saw me, Septa. You see me still. And that frightens you.”

She flushes. Her hand twitches at her cloak. She turns away fast, but not before you catch the crack in her mask.

[Septa Mordane: Inner Conflict Triggered]

Temptation: +15 | Piety -10

Septa Mordane: Temptation: 50 | Piety: 45

The night before Winterfell, Catelyn lingers by the fire after the others sleep. Her maid snores softly nearby.

“This road has been harder than I thought,” she admits quietly. “But I don’t know if I would have borne it without you.”

You bow your head. “You would have. You’re stronger than you think. But I was glad to be here.”

She studies you for a long moment, then smiles. Warm. Real.

From the edge of the firelight, Mordane watches, silent. She doesn’t interrupt this time.

[Journey’s End: Before Winterfell]

Lady Catelyn: Trust: +10 | Affection: +15

Septa Mordane: Temptation: +10 | Piety -10

Lady Catelyn: Trust: 70 | Affection: 70

Septa Mordane: Temptation: 60 | Piety: 35

By the time the gates of Winterfell rise from the northern hills, you’ve become more than just a sellsword in their company.

To Catelyn, you are steady ground. To Mordane, you are a shadow she cannot banish.