Attacked!

They rode out of Casterly Rock with a mild contingent of guards, moving at a casual pace through the hilly landscape that defined the Westerlands. Jon admired the country openly, impressed with the beauty that was on display and the weather that gently caressed them. The smell of the sea was a constant companion too, and Jon was grateful that unlike Blackwater Bay, the Sunset Sea did not stink of sewage.

The Lannisters were far less impressed by their own domain, riding through with a confidence that could only come from having absolute power. Lord Tywin as ever regarded all around him with a cold shrewdness, while Ser Jamie lazed in his saddle, occasionally chatting with Ser Oswell about their time together in the White Cloaks. Watching them, Jon got the impression that the heir to Casterly Rock missed his time as a Kingsguard, and wondered about the conversation Rhaegar must have had with him before releasing his vows.

Jon was stirred from his musings when he felt something breeze past him in the air. He blinked for a moment, heard a cry from behind him, and turned to see an arrow sticking out from one of the guards. A moment later things were in chaos as arrows shot from the air and riders appeared out of nowhere, charging in with steel ready and cutting down the Lannister men. At once a collective circle was formed around Jon and Lord Tywin, while Ser Jaime and his former sworn brothers took up the offensive against the attackers. It was bloody and brutal, but with the shield wall of protection around Jon and Tywin, the **** was kept at arms length.

Jon ached to rush forth and join his protectors in battle, but knew that would be foolish. Tywin however, sat atop his saddle and watched the events play out with mild disdain, his gold-flecked emerald eyes watching his son carve the enemies down with hawkish scrutiny.

It took some time, but eventually they were victorious and the bandits all lay dead. Jon inspected them with a frown, trying to puzzle out the situation before him.

“This is definitely the new brotherhood,” he said after a moments consideration. “Their sigil is plain to see...but what are they doing so far West? Usually they have been restricted to the Trident.”

Lord Tywin clenched his jaw at the sight. “It is not so far from the Riverlands to here,” his eyes lifted to Jon, “did you tell anyone of your plans to travel here? Did the King inform anyone?”

“I left as soon as we received your raven,” Jon replied, worry creeping into his mind, “ I never spoke to anyone.”

The Old Lion of the Rock looked at Jon closely. “It would seem, that your father has a spy in his midst.”