Northern Kingsroad 598AC

[Marie]

The northern part of the Kingsroad stretching from past the Neck to Castle Black.

[Marie]

Benjen Blackfyre turned to his compnion, Leilana.

"We're nearly on a parallel with White Harbor now. We'll continue north to Winterfell, stop off there briefly then we'll strike north east for Karhold."

[The Smith]

Leilianna nodded, "It is most inconviant, all this earth with no water ways. They should build canals instead of roads, and travel would be much fast about this too large kingdom."

[Marie]

"I have no quarrel with the roads," Benjen answered. "If you like we can hire a boat and sail down the rivers and thereby save us some trouble riding for parts of the journey?"

[The Smith]

"Oh thank you. I would preffered a coach, but I was told that it would be rather distinctive in the north." Leiliana replied.

[Marie]

"Aye, it would, and our own horses are faster than a coach could ever be since they don't have a burden to pull after them."

He stopped and grinned at her.

"Like the fine things in life, don't you?"

[The Smith]

Leilianna nodded, "Of course. I do not understand how people can prefer simpler wares if better is available."

[Marie]

"The simple life is well enough, sometimes, but I admit I grew tired of Greywater Watch and the North. I had a longing to see Kings Landing but I'm not so bothered about fine things."

[The Smith]

She scoffed, "Then you my friend have not lived. Silks, and laces." Leilianna purred deep in her throat.

[The Stranger]

As the two continue along the road, they reach a point where a wagon appears to have broken down. It rests off to the side, with one wheel in a rut, the other being pushed by two burly men, who are struggling, apparently in vain.

[Marie]

"I would look a fine fool in silk and lace," Benjen scoffed.

He eyed the two men struggling with the wagon then, beckoning to the girl to follow him, he approached them.

"Having trouble, goodmen? Can we be of assistance?"

[The Stranger]

As they approach, the two men turn, both with short iron batons in their hands. two more men step out behind the wagon, each holding a bow with arrow nocked.

"We'll take your coin purses, and your jewelry if you please, calm and quiet like." the man said.

[Marie]

Benjen scowled and his hadn went to his weapon.

"You'll do no such thing. Leilianna , get behind me."

[The Smith]

Leilianna moved behind Benjen her arm trembling with nerves.

[Marie]

///////////////////////

After being obliged to withdraw from the battle, Benjen collapsed onto the ground. All he could do was wait and see what happened.