on a general lack of Reeds:

[crannogirl]

It's disheartening, I know. I had hoped that Bran would have us, for guidance, and for safekeeping. But fate is fate, my lady, and we can only follow the path that has been set for us. Bran will have companions of some sort--he must--and it is they that will keep him safe on his way. That is what matters.

Perhaps too we may yet find ourselves among Bran's company, my brother and I. The green dreams could have our paths cross sometime later--he needs Jojen, he needs his counsel and his guidance. There is no one better suited to that task than my brother.

And I will admit that it would be good to see Bran, no matter the trials. But I will not set my hopes on that--fate would make fools of all of us, and there may yet be some path here where I will find him, and my brother. These "games" that you speak of--they make such meetings possible. I will keep my patience, and the word of my father--and my word as well.

Comments

[rosemaid]

Who can know? The gods may sometimes smile upon you.

[crannogirl]

That is the hope of everyone. Though-- the attention of the gods is not always for the good.

[rosemaid]

Tell me, what do the crannogmen pray for? They seek neither throne nor wealth, and yet they are not altogether in seclusion, rising up to defend the North.

[crannogirl]

[First, dryly:] For a plentiful crop of frogs and mud to eat, my lady.

Crannogmen pray for the strength to honor their word. My father's pledge to House Stark is one that will never be forgotten. So long as there are Reeds, the Starks will be defended, whether in kingship or in lordship.