"But, Theodred, I would ride with you!"

"No, cousin, it is a long, hard journey to Eastwatch, and the sky looks like rain." With a glance toward their lord, he turned his horse and left. Just last summer, he would have swung her onto the saddle before him.

In the cold months, old Aelfwyn had ripped out the seams of her gowns, widening the sides under the arms. Her aged nurse had smiled and cackled, "Soon, my lady, soon." Yet Eowyn saw no cause for gladness. Stabled like a broodmare, she watched her cousin leave, cursing her own body's betrayal.