ARYA POV:

"Jonelle Cerwyn…"—Applauses.

"Kyle Condon…"- Applauses.

Arya couldn't contain her yawn as Principal Forel went on and on with the list of Winterfell's Class of 2013.

"Arya, Darling think you can tone it down with the yawning? We are all aware that the ceremony is quite… tedious"—Eddard said next to her.

"Of course, cuz you're being oh so inconspicuous checking your email every five minutes" She said earning a wink from her father and a shushing sound from her sister; the most form of communication she had gotten from Sansa these past weeks.

Days quickly turned into weeks and finally they were all here accepting their high school diploma; well, the boys were. Arya was still getting her diploma but do to recent overachieving accusations (Rob's) Arya decided to get her's via administration and let the boys have their time to shine with their own classmates. As for her college plans? Well she was done with high school right? So no pressure, she would have the whole summer to decide if she wanted to go the Braavos University. On cue blue eyes looked to her from afar…

Yes, Gendry. What did you expect?

The past weeks she definitely had seen more and more of Gendry with him making good on his promise of being there for her but it was bittersweet. You cannot reach for spilled water. It was… odd talking to him. Especially since she barely had time to hang out with him because of Edric whom was very proactive with the non-official boyfriend tittle. She wanted Gendry more than a friend but that was out of the question, she wanted Edric as a friend but at the same time why not explore the romantic side? God knows he was willing.

"Rickon could you stop complaining?"—Catelyn hissed trying to get more pictures from where they sat.

"Uhm Mom? I don't know if you'll be upset or happy do to the fact that he won't complain anymore but Rickon fell asleep 20 minutes ago"— Bran murmured trying to prevent his little brother from falling from his seat.

"Oh… I just, I thought I heard something."—

"Gawen Glover…"

They all groaned in unison as names kept rolling and the S was still far, far away. Arya's phone vibrated and she immediately reached for it.

What no dress? I think graduating from high school serves as a special occasion. GW. It read. She glanced up towards where the graduates were seated and saw Gendry giving her a nod.

I'm celebrating on the inside. No need to adorn me with fancy clothes. AS. She replied making him laugh from afar.

Don't know… you've been wearing more and more dresses lately. I like it J GW.

'Yes… weirdly enough I don't mind dresses as I used to and Edric seems to love them.' Was what she should have said but the fact that Gendry liked to see her dolled up did things to her insides. Ugh… Arya huffed putting her phone away ending their little chit chat. Whatever the end game was Arya needed closure, at least she had the whole summer to figure out what type of relationship she was going to have with Gendry where it actually be a friendship or more…

"Erena Glover… Yeah, yeah, that's it"- There was a huge thud from the microphone as Principal Forel turned around. "I'm sorry, there seems to be some interference, please, let's continue. Erena Glover"- By now the crowd applauded but it was clear that the interference made by someone or someone's.

"Mmmmmmm…"- A loud moan made everyone pay attention. By now Bran actually elbowed Rickon to see if he was talking in his sleep but the moans were of another nature.

"Oh my God! Is someone…?"—Sansa gasped while Arya and Eddard shared a looked between them. Crap, I owe Dad 20 bucks; Arya thought as Principal Forel continued to hand out diplomas.

"Theon Greyjoy…"-

"Yeah Baby, that's my name. Say it loud and clear"—

The graduates stood up and began to cheer while the Principal and several of the staff ran off the stage to find where the hell Theon was clearly having sex in the middle of the graduation ceremony.

"We gave him the most normal upbringing didn't Eddard? What? What did we do wrong?"—Catelyn said burying her head in her hands while Arya slipped a 20 onto a laughing Eddard.

"We didn't do anything wrong my dear. Theon is just… Theon"—He replied while slapping sounds filled the auditorium. "He's really going at it isn't he?"— Eddard said trying to hide his laugher as Catelyn scowled at everyone, Theon was their responsibility after all. Well he was eighteen and finally graduated from high school… was he still?

"I'm sorry. Please give us a few minutes before we continue with the ceremony. We're just experimenting some technical difficulties"—Miss Mordane chirped to the microphone when the whole student body stood up and began to cheer as Principal Forel dragged Theon out of the sound booth. He was buck naked hiding his private parts under his graduation cap.

"King of the North!"—The grads chanted as Theon lifted his cap to the air giving everyone the full monty.

"Ugh… I think I'm scarred for life. I'm going back to the car"—Bran said cradling Rickon in his arms.

"And where do you think you're going Missy?"—Catelyn asked Arya as she sat up as well.

"The ceremony will probably be held up a while, I'm just going to stretch my legs"

There was an unspoken understanding between her parents after a quick glance. The whole family really was somewhat at odds these past weeks, as if something was brewing, lurking, waiting to explode around them so everyone was on their tip toes. It didn't help that they were all estranged at some level. Ganged up against each other. Catelyn was still all up in Arya's business, it didn't matter that she graduated early with honors; in her mother's eyes there was always something she could do to make herself better. The boys kept to themselves although Jon didn't hide his disapproval towards Rob's recent behavior. Sansa was off away playing her distorted game of social butterfly while Ned's life consisted of early mornings and late nights barely leaving his office. He signaled her that it was ok to go but with a slight rise of an eyebrow. A 'don't push it' warning.

Stepping out of the auditorium Arya wandered inside her high school one last time. People said that these years were the ones the marked your life. The golden years; some people said. Arya scoffed. Gold was overrated. Although still not knowing where her life was headed she sure as hell was happy to finish school. Not a martyr but not a bully. She simply chose to blend in the crowd not really liking the recognition of the Stark name like some of her siblings preferred. Her only spotlight came through fencing and the occasional trip to detention (never her fault I might add).

As she walked through the hall she smiled. Ok; so not all her memories will be bad ones. Inside the science lab Hot Pie would cook up some very cool Pop Tarts with ingredients he stole from the cafeteria. She laughed peeking through the infirmary remembering how they all fooled the school nurse to pull them out of class after a phone call from their father; Jon's voice was a great asset after puberty. Although not a computer geek she liked hanging around the computer lab since it was the only room where she could stumble upon her sibling not matter what grade they were. Oh; and there's the old storage room near the back entrance that she recently discovered was used as a make out spot. Yeah… interesting way to end her school year. With Edric Dayne trying to get to third base and her convinced that maybe the whole physical part of dating wasn't for her. Of course her feet would lead her to her favorite spot, her safe haven throughout her supposed golden years. Yup, give her the faint smell of sweat and disinfectant any day. The gym was definitely her turf.

"I was waiting for you… a girl certainly has a thing for making people look forward towards her presence"—

Arya tried to keep her steps cool and unaffected as she walked further inside. How in the world could this man be casually waiting for her here? Jaqen H'ghar sat in the bleachers definitely walking a thin line between smooth and stalker.

"I have something for you…"—He said in that enchanting voice of his that you couldn't quite point if he was luring you in or mocking you.

"I don't accept things from strangers"

"Is that what we are? I believed we were already made acquaintances"—

"I know your name, and that you're from Braavos but that's about it. Braavos University rarely accepts new applicants, their student body is quite scarce. Why the interest in me? What is your job title by the way?"

He smiled and stood, straitening his suit. A crisp gray suit and jacket with a plain white shirt. No tie, expensive but worn shoes and messy hair rolled in a bun. Red and white, clashing like heaven and hell.

"I am a mean to an end. I come bearing gifts, some would say it would be wise just to accept them and be grateful"—

"Since you aren't going to be more forthcoming and I rely solely on Syrio's word then I'll peg you to be nothing simpler than a headhunter and those are borderline legal in the college world" Arya smirked while she found herself circling the gym while Jaqen did the same, just as the first time they met as if they were ready to perform an assault. This time words as weapons, not swords but regardless of Jaqen's intentions she really did like talking to him, he kept her on her toes.

"Come with me…"—He said. All orders.

"Where to?" She replied flippantly.

"Braavos."—

"I already said I'd go"

"Come with me right now. Let's leave today to the Free Cities"—

"Excuse me?" An alarm went off in Arya's head. Was her scholarship a hoax? Was Jaqen part of some cult that scouted girls and kidnapped them to another city, forcing them to do God's knows what? She, really did need to tone it down watching so many shows on the Crime Investigation Channel.

"You think too much"—Jaqen said in an exasperated tone.

"Well I'm sorry if the possibility of me leaving my home for the first time is too tiresome for you. I have till the end of summer to go, I don't see what the rush is"

"Time is everything. Why stay? Because of your family? Because of the blond boy?"—Jaqen scoffed "Or is it because of the large one, the raven hair young man?"—Arya glared at him making him smirk, ignoring her as he continued to talk. "Your training needs to begin as soon as possible. Time is of the essence. Three months can make the world's difference if you're going to stay here and do nothing. You already know who your family is and who your friends are. What you see is what you get, plain and simple. Here"— He said walking straight at her and placing in her hands her high school diploma. As she opened it for closer inspection as a small coin fell out.

"What's this?" She asked, eyeing the odd coin.

A gleam took ahold of Jaqen's eye "It's a token, call it a peace offering of my good intentions since that sweet girl is something very very rare"—

"Is it some kind of a collector's items?" Arya asked looking at the strange coin.

"Rare? Yes… but you can't buy anything with it. Always have it with you. You'll give it back once we see each other again. If you want to come to Braavos with me the coin shall be your safe pass. Anytime, anywhere… the sooner the better once you realize there's nothing left for you here"—

Arya's gaze fell down. Was she really so lonely that it showed on her exterior? She tried, she was trying. Every damned day she woke up trying to fit into the mold she was cast while trying to be happy.

"Don't look sad lovely girl, that emotion doesn't look good on your face"—The tenderness in Jaqen's voice made her look up again only to see him already heading towards the exit doors. "Till me meet again Arya Stark"— He left leaving Arya with the sensation that it was going to be sooner rather than later. Lost in her thoughts she was interrupted when her phone vibrated with a text message.

Don't see my favorite Stark. Where R U?. GW

Shit… the ceremony had started again. Arya ran out of the gym and over to the auditorium again just in time to see her brothers take the stage.

"Jon Snow…"—

Arya and Eddard sheered with all their might as Jon took the stage with a small smile on his lips. Sansa and Catelyn clapped in an appropriate manner but Arya didn't care. He may not have their name but Jon was family trough and trough. The redheads of the family were a little bit more enthusiastic once Robb was up, he got cat called and actually threw kisses to the crowd. Ever the manwhore but Arya cheered on as well.

Next was Gendry who not only inspired the same cheers from both his classmates and the crowd but Arya couldn't help but roll her eyes as various women actually leered and winked at him. Disgusting. But like Jon who rarely smiled Gendry looked happy, waving over to Tobho and his wife who were in the back row and to her which on muscle memory she returned back.

Finally the ceremony was over and after Catelyn was satisfied with a large amount of pictures they were ready to leave. Their father had arranged a little get-together for the boys in the local country club.

"You're riding with me Missy"—Arya squealed in surprise as Gendry scooped her up carrying her in circles, all smiles and bright blue eyes. "I mean, if that's ok with you Sir"—Gendry asked Eddard who quickly agreed.

"It's ok, Sansa and the Boys are going to ride back with Robb while Cat and I have a little chat with Teon. We'll met you all at the club."—

"Where's Jon?" Arya piped up missing her favorite sibling, wanting to spend as much time as possible till he had to leave to The Wall.

"Uhm… Margaery picked him up for lunch. Her family is in town and she wanted him to meet them"—Gendry replied making Arya arch her eyebrows. Everyone said their quick goodbyes and once inside of the truck Arya could hold it any longer.

"Lunch with the Tyrells?"

"Jon told me to cover for him and what else could I say? Everyone saw Margaery practically kidnap Jon once the ceremony was over"—

"Yeah but next time get your facts strait. Marg's entire family is abroad on vacations. Thank God Dad doesn't read the social pages"

"Well, he said he'd go to the party later on so I'm sure its fine. He likes Margaery, she makes him happy. He sure as hell is smiling more no matter how creepy he looks doing it"—Gendry chuckled starting his truck and driving out of the school.

"They suit each other well."

"I agree… Do you like Margaery?"—Gendry asked with his eyes on the road.

"Sure, she's cool. Why shouldn't I?"

"Well… I don't think anyone is more vocal in the entire family when it comes to significant others"—

"When your sister brings Joffrey Baratheon home you can tell quality from garbage. Margaery passes the test"

"You have a point"—Gendry chuckled as Arya played with the radio. "Is that your diploma?"—He asked after a long silence.

"Yup…" Arya said making sure the coin Jaqen gave her was safely tucked in her pocket.

"So… you really did it. Finished high school and going to higher education away from us all"—When Arya didn't say anything he kept on speaking. "I'm glad I have the summer though. Make up for lost time, have you all by myself…"—

"What about college?" Arya asked deciding to ignore his last statement. He rubbed the back of his neck.

"Uhmm I don't know. I wasn't offered full ride scholarships. I'd still have to factor housing, supplies and don't get me started on text books."—

"But if you could… which one would you pick?" Arya really wanted to know. She was curious since Gendry wasn't so vocal with his plans like she was with her dreams of fencing.

"First of all KL is out of the question"—

"But it's your home"

"Winterfell is my home. Kings Landing is just smoke and mirrors if you ask me."—

"So it's between Winterfell U and Storms End?"

"Yeah… but remember the money factor Ar. I don't have much of a cushion to fall back on and I won't be a burden to Tobho. Winterfell U is more in my reach since I wouldn't have to relocate so maybe I'll just have to keep on pushing hours at the shop or get a second job. We'll see"—

"So basically what you just told me is that you want to go to Storms End"

"Nothing gets by you doesn't it?"—

"It's a gift" Arya shrugged as Gendry laughed.

"They do have the best engineering program in the country and the fact that they offered me the chance to go is mind blowing. I didn't even send an application"—

"I didn't send applications, period. Syrio did it for me. Maybe one of the faculty teacher did it for you. You have a mind for building stuff Gen. Everyone knows that"

"Like I said; we'll see. We have three whole months left till the new semester and I plan to spend every single day with m'lady"—

"Ugh… I told you not to call me that. I'm not a lady"

"I sure as hell know that"—

"And I'm not yours."

Gendry sighed "I know"—

I'm no one's; she thought as they kept on driving.

…

The party was a small and tedious affair. Same people, different occasion. Arya played with her Champaign while she watched Catelyn Stark in her element; socializing, praising her golden boy's achievements while dragging Roslyn around as the newest acquisition. Her father was talking business as always with the typical suits while Bran ran around the club after the ever wild Rickon, Jon was still a no show. Come to think about it; were was Gendry?

"… and I should care because?"—A not so whisper of a voice started Arya. She was standing alone near the food table but behind a large flower arrangement that shrank her already petite frame, leaving her concealed from bystanders.

"Because it's my family. It's my brother's graduation party"—

"Brother Sansa, as in a singular unit, do not soil your family name. Greyjoy is a stray and Snow's a bastard"—

"Whatever Joff. It's Rob's party then. You have to stay, what will people think if you leave this early?"—

"I don't care what other people say and was that an order you gave me?"—Joffrey's voice said with an edge. Her sister Sansa and her prick of a boyfriend stood next to the food table completely oblivious that Arya was right behind them. "I asked you a question. It's rude not to answer pet"—

"No it wasn't. I just wasn't thinking, please Joffrey let go of my arm you're hurting me"—Sansa winced as Joffrey grabbed her by her upper arm. To the others it was a like he was holding her near in an intimate embrace but Arya who had a direct view and knew of their troubled relationship was seconds away from pummeling her fist into his ugly little face.

"I will do as I please, whenever I please… did you forget your place Sansa?"—He asked putting more pressure on her arm.

"No, I didn't. Please…"—Sansa whimpered, her blue eyes glassy ready to cry so Joffrey; always minding of his public persona, backed off.

"Weak…"—He spat. "…and make sure you don't eat any more oeuvres. You're getting fat. You're no use to me if you're fat"—He finally let her go to make his leave so Arya saw an opening. A petty thing in comparison to what she was sure Sansa had to endure but she could at least do this.

She practically ran out of her hiding spot to catch Joffrey just as he was heading towards the exit and threw her Champaign glass all over him feigning an unfortunate mishap "Now you have an excuse to leave you little shit." She whispered softly in his ear not waiting for him to react casually walking back to where her sister stood. They remained standing next to each other in silence for quite a while.

"You should put some ice in your arm. It's going to start swelling anytime soon" Arya spoke breaking the unofficial silent treatment between the sisters.

"Thank you"—Was all Sansa said, putting on a pretty little pink cardigan on with long sleeves.

"Sleeves won't cover abuse Sansa. This is not an 'out of sight – out of mind' situation"

"Don't you dare…"—Sansa spat dragging her further away from the party.

"Don't I dare what? Actually defend my sister? What in the world happened to your brain if you're going to scold me on getting back at Joffrey?"

"You made it all worse. Now I'll have to face whatever he…"—

"Whatever he what? You're admitting he hits you?"

"I haven't said such thing Arya. Stop putting words in my mouth"—

"I don't need words. I've seen him, I just saw him for Christ's sake. Your arm is already bruising. He called you his pet and berated you on your imaginary weight because you sure could use a stop at KFC."

"I refuse to have this conversation with you."—Sansa said with finality starting to walk back to the party.

"What is going to happen when he goes too far uh Sansa? I don't see anyone on your defense. Only me. Not any of your dearest girlfriends, me. Your ugly little unwanted sister and you know what? I'm done. I can't fight for you if you don't want help to begin with"

They both froze. Truer words were never spoken. Spoken for both sisters. Arya didn't even wait for a reply. She stormed out of the club wanting fresh air.

'I can't fight for you if you don't want help to begin with…' Jon was unhappy so he was proactive. Leaving the nest and Catelyn's judge full eyes, joining the Night's Watch. If you're not happy with what you have; change it. Whatever was going on with Sansa? Arya was done. First she needed to take care of herself. She needed to make herself happy.

She patted her pockets in search of her cellphone but she remembered she left it in her purse. Most probably inside of Gendry's truck. She was already out in the parking lot so she decided to walk back to where he had parked. Gendry was inside his truck. With Jeyne Poole… They seemed to be in some kind of heated conversation when the engine roared to life and they left the club. 'I can't fight for you if you don't want help to begin with…'

"Goodbye Gendry…" She whispered.

As Gendry's truck exited the premises in came Edric's jaguar purring like a cat. As he stopped in front of her Arya didn't even give him a chance to kill the engine getting inside the passenger seat.

"Hey, I'm sorry. Am I late for the party?"—He asked out of confusion while Arya buckled up her seatbelt.

"Nop, change of plans" She replied as she gestured Edric to drive away.

…

Arya looked at the ceiling while Edric typed away. An old Billie Holliday tune filled her bedroom as Nymeria snuggled closer to her on the bed. She was really doing it.

"Done."—Edric said ceremoniously from her computer desk.

"You know you didn't have to pay for it. I have money" Arya said as Edric just shrugged.

"My treat. Besides, I didn't pay. I have frequent flyer miles to spare."

"You don't want me to go."

"No, but I want you to be happy. Nymeria is the one who doesn't want you to go" Edric chuckled as Nymeria whined on cue. "Don't worry. Just tell me first thing when I can come visit and I'm taking Nym with me"—

"Is it really done?" Arya asked looking at the ceiling again.

"Yes. The red eye, last flight of the day. You're good to go."—Edric said as he stood up and grabbed his jacket.

"Wait… you're leaving?"

"Yeah. I want to keep this cool collective façade going on. If I'll see you go I'll just end up a crying mess."—

"Maybe this is a mistake. Maybe…" Before Arya could sit up Edric walked over, cradled her face in his hands and kissed her. It was sweet and courteous. Edric Dayne at his best.

"This is not a mistake. Go to Braavos, live your life. Besides…"—He told her giving her another quick kiss before he stood up. "Have I told you my family owns a jet? Braavos has beaches right? Me, you, swimming wear is optional. I've heard college girls are quite open minded"—

"Shut up you dork" Arya said throwing a pillow at him. "I'm going to miss you Ed"

"No you're not. There's going to be one permanent phone call everyday on your phone. Mine. No missing anyone. We'll be ok"—He looked like he was going to say something else but he cleared his throat. "C'mon Nym. Let's go for a walk. Mommy has some great news that Grandma Catelyn is just going to love"— Edric smirked while Nymeria ran after him.

It was done. Edric had help her scheduled the last flight to Braavos because Jaqen was right; why wait? Why waste three months with the same people who didn't understand her, didn't value her? When she could go and reinvent herself. It was time to grab life by the hand, her own hands. But first she needed to tell her parents.

She gulped.

With finality Arya walked down the stairs and knocked on the living room door going inside. Her father stood by the fireplace nursing a drink lost in thought looking tired. He's been looking tired more and more each day; Arya thought. Robb and Roslyn sat next to each other while opposite was Catelyn clearly leading the discussion.

"Oh Arya darling, there you are! I was just telling Roslyn all the activities we're going to do in these vacations"—

"We?" Arya asked lifting her eyebrows.

"Oh yes. Since you're going to have the spare time I've signed us up for knitting, flowers and garden landscaping, a really great seminar for makeup techniques and wrinkle hiding oh and tea cup painting"—Catelyn says with excitement. "I was just telling Roslyn that she should join us"—

"I don't think Roslyn and I are very interested in tea cup painting mother" Arya said sitting next to her mother while Roslyn gave her a look of gratefulness.

"I don't think anyone is interested in tea cup painting"—Robb muttered.

"Nonsense… If so, there are plenty activities I have mapped out for us girls that will surely keep us busy. Wasn't Edric with you Arya? Did he leave?"—

"Yeah, he just left. It's late and besides I wanted to talk to you guys about something. Rather; tell you something" At Edric's mention Catelyn brightened up surely waiting for some big announcement of a romantic kind while Eddard gestured her to go on. "I'm going to Braavos"

"Of course, we already know that Dear but surely Edric could have at least stopped by to say goodbye. I plan to invite his Aunt here over the summer as well…"— And Catelyn keep on and on about their plans the others had certainly taken notice of what Arya said and the meaning behind their words. Eddard stood tall, setting his glass filled with amber liquid on the table while Robb sat up straight. Roslyn's reaction was unexpected though. She had a smile on her face.

"What do you mean you're going to Braavos?"—Eddard asked enunciating each word with measure. His tone made Catelyn stop talking. Ok, this could go both ways; Arya thought but she squared her shoulders anyway.

"I'm not staying here while on vacation waiting for the new semester to start. I'm going to Braavos, as in tonight." She said eyeing everyone's reaction "Edric helped me book a flight. It's less than two hours away actually"

"Wait… what? I don't… what is the meaning of this? You can't just go and leave young lady. We're your parent, we…"—

"Robb, Roslyn? If you'll excuse us but we need a moment with Arya"—Eddard asked with a cool tone completely ignoring Catelyn's outburst. Roslyn surprised Arya again by squeezing her shoulder before she left.

"Why know? What's the game plan?"— Eddard asked in his business tone.

"Eddard don't tell me you're actually considering letting her leave? Letting her accept the invitation to go was a mistake to begin with"—Catelyn elevated her voice but was shot down with a cool glare from Eddard, something she was barely often at the receiving end. Ned Stark remained were he stood looking straight at his daughter.

"Well?..."— He said urging Arya to continue. She felt the pressure like she was in the middle of a sales pitch but she welcomed it. It was as if her father was setting the court for her. "You graduated from college but you're still a seventeen year old girl. My seventeen year old daughter. What makes you think I'm going to let you leave to a place I haven't laid eyes on in the middle of the night? You have three months left before you leave. Why the urge? If you leave; leave for the right reasons Arya."—His last words were both a warning and an advice. She took a deep breath.

"Ok… Yes, I'm seventeen. Sorry to put us all in a balance but I've been the most self-sufficient kid of the pack. I've traveled the country alone with my fencing since I was six, I have a 4.0 gpa and you have to admit that I know how to defend myself own. I can cook, I can clean…" Her parents scoffed making her retract a bit "Ok, I can cook the basics and I'm not a hoarder"

"All things true but those still aren't reasons enough to just let you go!"—

"I want to be happy!"—She exclaimed interrupting her mother. Arya sighed turned towards her. "Mom, please… do you really see me knitting and going to a makeup seminar? I'm not Sansa, I'm not you! You need to stop trying to mold me into something I'm not! I like sports, physical activities. I like getting sweaty, getting dirty and push my body to its limit. I like to travel, see new places, and meet new people. I'd like to continue with the family business, Dad knows this"

"So why not stay here? Learn right from him?"—Catelyn pleaded while Eddard just watched.

"BECAUSE I DON'T WANT TO!" This time Arya shouted and it felt liberating. "Because I feel trapped, because I feel miserable, because one of us has to give in and I'll be dammed if it's me again mother"

"Arya…"-

"Please… Please… Just let me be happy. You let everyone else follow their wants and dreams yet everything with me is an issue. I'm an issue to you mother, I've accept that now. I'm just going with the most practical solution"

Catelyn stood up with tears in her eyes "You think I see you as an issue? A problem?"—Arya just shrugged fighting tears of her own "I… I…"— Catelyn walked over and to her in her arms, cradling her and kissing the top of her head. "My darling girl, my darling darling girl…"- She said over and over again. Various minutes passed, the two of them embraced when Catelyn scooted down to her eye level. "Do you know why I named you Lyanna?"—

"Of course, after Dad's sister. Aunt Lyanna"

"Yes, you looked like her since you were born. The Stark Look. Dark hair, solemn face and gray eyes. Your uncle Brandon was the same"—Arya remained silent, it was extremely rare to hear her mother talk about their Uncle Brandon.

Apparently Eddard thought the same "I'll give you girls some privacy"—He said but was stopped by Catelyn.

"No… Eddard, let's us sit for a minute. I need to explain something to our daughter."—They all sat together in the large sofa.

"As you know Arya I once dated your Uncle"—Catelyn said with a sad smile on her face. "That's how I came to know rest of the family. Brandon was… God's I can't even put a word to it"—

"Brandon was Brandon…"—Eddard said, with a sad smile as well. Cat gave his hands a squeeze.

"Yes… he was. We barely dated for a year but it was intense, Brandon was intense. I've never told anyone this but before he died I was thinking of breaking up with him. It's one thing to live life to the fullest and another thing is to be reckless. I guess it's a matter of how you chose to look at it. Your grandfather Rickard approved but your Grandmother?... Poor woman had gray hair at 20 all because of him. Sadly your Aunt was the same. When she died, shortly after Brandon your Grandmother… Arya, I've always wanted the dream, the house, the big family, and little feet all ages. But no one really prepares you for the love you feel for your children, it's truly the most selfless and selfish experience when it comes to them, you'd do anything. Anything for their wellbeing. I'm telling you this because I'll never forget one day when I came to this house. The ties were already made and I continued to visit your grandmother to share her grief so one day, out of the blue she said something that sticks to me till this very day. She said Brandon was a lost cause but that Lya's death was her fault, it was her fault because she never said no to her. I… It's more than the physical appearance Arya, you even act the same and that scares me. Your independence scares me. What if something happens to you? You're not an issue, my darling girl you're my greatest achievement! All my children at least ask for opinions before doing something but you just do it. Lyanna was the same, she could move masses with the blink of an eye and suddenly she was gone. The bright light was gone. I'm scared that if you leave, when you leave that you'll never come back"—

"Oh mother. Of course I'll come back. Winterfell is my home. You are home" Arya said launching herself at her mother. Both a crying mess but it felt wonderful. About damn time as well. "But I still want to go though" they all laughed.

"And miss the knitting class and the tea cup painting?"—Eddard smirked making them laugh harder. He kissed them both and stood up. "Go on then, we have a plane to catch little wolf"—

"Thank you father. Both of you. I'll make you proud, I promise"

"Arya?..."—Catelyn said before she left for her room. "You don't have to make us proud, we already are. I won't say no anymore. Just stay safe and be happy"—

"I will…" She replied with a broken voice. She was going to be a crying mess by the time she left.

As she ran up the stairs to arraign her luggage Arya wasn't surprised to see Bran already rummaging through her closet but she stopped cold once she saw Sansa helping him.

"You're terrible at packing"—Bran said as a form of explanation while Sansa folded her jeans.

"And you're terrible at matching clothes with the weather. You'll be alone and no one will force you to shop. The least I can do if see if you have the proper clothes."— Her sister said not meeting her eye.

"Packing quickly to kick me out faster?" She joked making Sansa frown.

"You need to say goodbye to Rickon"—

"I know but he's asleep"

"As if the temper tantrum he's going to have once he wakes up and you're not here is going to be a mild one. You're his favorite. Go. Say goodbye. Bran and I got this."—

It was a bittersweet feeling. Apparently this was going to be the best goodbye she was going to have from her sister. Bran sighed at them both and scooted her out the door and into Rickon's room. Shaggydog started growling once she went inside.

"Oh shut up grumpy mutt. It's just me" Shaggy huffed as she scooted him out of the bed.

"Arry? Is that you?"—Rickon mumbled in the dark.

"Shhhh… yeah it's me. Go back to sleep. I just wanted to see you before I left."

"Where are you going?"—

"To Braavos. I'm going to speed up my trip a bit"

"Are you going to come back?"—

"When I can… yes"

"Can I go visit?"—

"Of course, Shaggy included"

"Ok… see ya"—Rickon said snuggling back into his pillow. He giggled once Arya started tickling him.

"That's it? Jeez, and here I thought I was going to have a grand farewell" She laughed giving him a kiss on the cheek. He quickly rubbed it off in disgust.

"Are you going to send me presents?"—

"Are you blackmailing me?"

"No, but I want presents"—

"I'll see what I can find big guy. Now go back to sleep. Be a good little wolf and raise hell in my name"

"Hell yeah!"—Rickon said giving her a high five "Will you be ok on your own? You know what Dad always says; the lone wolf dies…"—

"…but the pack survives? Yeah, I think he said it all these years from keeping a house full of children free of bloodshed but yeah. I'll be ok. I'll be far but you can call me anytime you want."

"Good. Goodbye Arya. I'll take care of Jon and Gendry for you"—

She smiled "Thanks kiddo…"

With her luggage ready and the clock ticking Arya was saying her goodbyes at the front door. Roslyn was the first to embrace her.

"Sorry we didn't have the chance to spend time together but I'm very happy for you. Two of my sisters are fans of yours and love fencing. I'm sure you'd do great in Braavos"—

"Wow… thanks Roslyn. You can crash in my room if you want. You know, family and all"

"How come I don't get dibs on your room? I'm been on the waiting list for years!"—Theon said picking Arya up and pinning her in circles.

"Because you're also leaving in a couple of months you dork" She said punching him in the arm once he set her back on the floor.

"Cold Stark, that's cold"—Theon said feigning hurt unable to fight his signature grin.

"Are you sure you have everything you need?"—Catelyn asked between sobs for the eleventh time.

"Yes Mother, I packed for her. She'll be fine"—Sansa said trying to calm her.

"Nonsense. Arya your father and I will visit you as soon as possible. I'll take you shopping there for all the essentials"—

"She won't have time being a badass fencer"—Rob said giving her a side hug. She tensed. "So… I've been a dick"—

"Yes, you have" Arya replied deadpanned.

"Jesus, doesn't anyone in this family know how to give a normal goodbye?"—Bran muttered.

"Shut up Brandon… I'm sorry Ar. I really am and I'm not just saying this because you're leaving. I'm ashamed of how I treated you. You were always the bigger of us… in personality that is. You're still a munchkin"—He said with his puppy face.

"You're such a player Rob."—Arya said shoving him away. He laughed winking at her. God she hoped he got his shit together.

"Ok, ok… time to go. We're already late"—Eddard said as another wave a goodbyes came. Arya was already inside her father's car as Jon practically crashed his car into them.

"I came as soon as Robb told me. Arya what the hell?!"—Jon said running over and basically tackling her inside the car.

"Uhm… Jon? Can you please stop hugging me? You reek of sex" His clothes were all wrinkled and his lips were swollen and bruised.

"Get inside the car Jon, you and I need to have a little talk"—Eddard glared at him as they finally made their way to the airport.

It was a funny ride, not at all what she expected. Her father giving Jon the talk on safe sex, how he didn't want to be a grandfather so soon and many awkward advice on dating was epic. He gave her a warning or two but she just brushed him off. She was going to study and fence not to meet guys. That had proven a failed assignment for her. Jon? He was a hoot. Stoic Jon Snow cried like a baby from the house to the airport refusing to let go of her. Telling her how much he was going to miss her and warning her that once he joined the Watch communication was going to be scarce but that she'd always be in his thoughts.

"What about Margaery? You guys seem cozy enough" Arya asked as Eddard was handling her check- in.

"We're going to try and do the long distance thing. I like her, she's fun"—He shrugged.

"'Fun'? Oh my God, Jon Snow is in luuuuuuuuuvvvvvv"

"Shut up you little brat. You know there's only room for you in my heart."

"Sorry, but we can't allow her to broad the plane"—The receptionist said. WHAT?!

"ARYA!"—A strong voice filled the airport. Gendry came running over to where they stood. "Why are you leaving? You weren't even going to say goodbye?"—He looked hurt. Arya was confused. Damn his blue eyes.

"Wait, I'm sorry." Arya said making her way to the front desk "What did you say Miss?"

"That you have to check in at least thirty minutes before your flight. You're late by fifteen minutes. The gates are closed. We're sorry Miss but those are the rules"—

All three men didn't even hide their glee at the newest development but Arya acted fast.

"Wait, I have something!" She said taking the coin Jaqen had given her. The receptionist looked shocked for a second but quickly recovered.

"Oh, I'm sorry Miss… Stark"—She said checking something on her computer. "Of course, we were expecting you. Please, allow us to check in your luggage"— The woman gave her the coin back and Arya quickly put it back in her pocket.

"What was that?"—Eddard asked.

She shrugged "Ed's frequent flyers card" She lied. What was that?

"Arya?..." Gendry spoke making her focus on him again.

"Let them say their goodbyes Jon"—Eddard muttered as they walked further back.

"Rickon called me"—Of course he did. "Why are you leaving? I thought you were going to stay a couple of months till the new semester started"—

"Yeah… I was but. Yeah, it's kind of like a summer internship in fencing. Get me familiarized with the whole team. That sort of thing"

"And you weren't going to tell me?"—

"I was going to call you or text once I got settled. It really was a spur of a moment thing"

The last flight boarding to Braavos is about to take off; a voice said over the speakers. "Arya? It's time to leave love"—Eddard said.

"No, I needed time to fix things, you can't leave like this."—Gendry pleaded with her but she needed to leave. Her resolve shook once she touched his hand. Before she knew it Gendry swept her off her feet and cradled her body so close to him that she could feel his heartbeat. His warmth poured into her skin and his voice slipped into her heart. "I messed up. I don't want you to leave"—

"I have to… I want to" He held her even closer if it was possible. Walking over the corded gait to wait till the last second to let go of her. He still held her face in his hands.

"I'll make things better. We'll be us again Arya. I swear it"—He said with finality. Arya just gave him a sad smile.

Waving her goodbye to her father and brother she could still feel blue eyes piercing into her soul. She needed to go, it was necessary for both of them. Only time would tell if Gendry was going to make good of his promise. If she even wanted him to make good of his promise…. Finally alone inside of the plain she let herself truly cry.

She took off on to her new life.

GENDRY POV:

There she goes, the only girl I've ever loved; Gendry thought.

"Goodbye Arya…"

A firm hand landed of his shoulder making him lose eye contact with the plane far into the black sky. It was Eddard "Let's go home son. I have something to discuss with you"-

ARYA POV:

It would be the lowest point of her life if on day 1; scratch that. It would be the lowest point of her life if after 3 hours of being in Braavos she already wanted to go back. The heat, the heat ladies and gentlemen. She had already showered twice and she looked like she had ran a marathon as she walked the streets of the island. The time change was killing her arriving in the early morning, too late or too early to meet anyone. She got quickly to her dorm room, pretty basic. A double bedroom for her roommate and a note from her guidance counselor Mister Izembaro who she would meet the next day.

The campus was deserted so she decided to go straight to the digging site her father told her she would be working on. Since it was close to the university she decided to sneak a quick peak before her meeting with the man in charge. Dragon fossils, can you imagine? Arya salivated just imagining seeing proof of such majestic creatures. But first things first. Why was there a sign at the gate that read 'A Three Heads Excavation Site'? Where the hell was Stark Industries? She didn't have proper identification to show the guard at the gate, not like it mattered. He was out cold, snoring in a deep sleep so naturally Arya decided to circle the perimeter and see if she could sneak in another way which she always did. Once inside she was glad that it looked like they just started. Tools scattered all around, the heavy machinery reading for digging parked near a large clean field. Hundreds of maps showing the details of the dig. Fascinating! She was lost in thought inspecting her surroundings as she heard someone coughing. She hid behind a table but whoever it was sounded badly. Like coughing that came not with your normal cold but flesh eating germs.

"Who is there?" Nice one Arya, just like a horror film. 'Hi, I'm the killer who followed you in the middle of the night to a deserted digging site. May I slash your throat?; She was going to get killed on her first night. Great. The coughing stopped only for a second coming back with full force.

"Uhm… Whoever is out there I think you should go to the hospital. You don't sound very well" No response, only coughing. "Look, my dad is in charge of this project. I'm sure I can talk to the guard at the gate and get some assistance. Do you work here?"

Nothing.

"Ok… I'm going back at the gate and alert the guard that someone is trespassing. Don't say I warned you"

"Wait! I'm not trespassing. I work here!"—A voice said. It was hoarse and was followed by more coughing.

"You do?"

"Well… not really. I know who runs the site"—

"You know my father?"

"No. Who is your father?"—

"The one who runs the site"

"I personally know who runs the site and whoever your father is girly, isn't it"—

"Yes he is! And I'm not a girly"

"Well… you sound all girly"—

"Yeah well you sound like shit"

"I have a cold, it's not polite to say that"—

"You sound like you are going to die on your next breath. What are you even doing outside? The night air will kill you"

"That's nice, now you want to save me. What can I say, I have always had a way with girls"—

"Bite me" Arya muttered.

"Well that would be easier if we saw each other. What do you say, I'll show you mine and you'll show me yours?"—The voice said making Arya realize that their little banter was made from their hiding spot.

"Ok… but let me remind you yet again that my father is in charge of this site. That I can run really fast and that I can scream very loud"

"I'll take that in mind Girly"—

"I'm not a girl!" Arya huffed in annoyance standing up.

"No, that you are not" The voice said from behind her, startling her. Even more so as she turned around.

His skin was pale, sickly looking and he looked like he lost a couple of pounds. He looked worse for ware and his eyes still impressive looked gaunt. But the hair would always be a dead giveaway.

"Griff?" Arya asked. What. Are. The. Odds?

"Aryahhh"- He said marking the A. "So we meet again."

END OF PART ONE.

Hello Fanfic Friends.

Finally it's done. Part One it is… J

Thanks to all who remained glued to the story no matter how much I procrastinated.

There's a part two called NEW HORIZONS; there is a time jump to the present day so be warned. It's coming next Friday so I hope you jump in the reading wagon again.

Remember to leave your review.

XOXO

NewGirl J