The pair cautiously made their way through the dense forest, the vibrant colors and mystical atmosphere overwhelming Samwell's curiosity and Benjen's instincts. Spirit birds flew overhead, and glowing mushrooms dotted tree trunks.
As they walked, Sam couldn't help but theorize.
Sam:
"If this is some sort of reincarnation… it must've happened during the Long Night. Maybe the magic of the Wall was tampered with… or the Children of the Forest interfered. But this place… it's beautiful."
Benjen walked silently beside him, his wolf ears twitching at every crack of a twig or distant howl.
Benjen:
"This forest… it's alive. Not just with animals. There's something watching us."
As if in response, a group of Spiritfolk warriors emerged from the trees—elven archers, beastkin scouts, and dwarf sentinels. Their eyes were wary.
Lead Elf Scout:
"Halt! Outsiders! You stand upon sacred Spiritfolk land. State your purpose!"
Benjen raised his hands calmly, but his body instinctively moved to shield Sam.
Benjen:
"We're not here to fight. We don't even know how we got here."
Sam stepped forward awkwardly, his long legs adjusting to his new elven grace.
Sam (nervously):
"I'm Samwell Tarly, of the Night's Watch—well… I was. I think we've been transported… to another world. We woke up like this. I'm… I'm not used to being graceful…"
The elf leader narrowed his eyes.
Elf Scout:
"Tarly… Stark…?"
The name 'Stark' stirred memories of a young man with silver hair, blade in hand—Jon Snow. The elf scout raised an eyebrow.
Elf Scout:
"There is one among us who bears your name. Jon Snow."
Sam and Benjen's eyes widened.
Sam:
"Jon's alive?!"
Benjen:
"…And here?"
The scout gave a cautious nod.
Elf Scout:
"Come with us. But be warned—we do not take kindly to deception."
As the warriors escorted them toward the heart of the Spiritfolk village, Sam's heart swelled with cautious hope.
And far away, Jon Snow looked up from where he played with his newborn daughters, a strange pull tugging at his spirit—as if ghosts from his past were drawing near once more.