Gryn threw back his head and laughed, rubbing the top of her head. "Arya the swordswoman, it is an honor to see you again."
Arya put her little hands behind her back and said proudly, "We'll practice swordsmanship together sometime. I'll show you my Water Dancing."
"Alright."
Gryn ruffled Arya's hair again, then looked past her and said gently, "Please rise."
Then, his gaze settled on a short, thin, bald man with a hooked nose. "A Braavosi swordsman, Syrio Forel."
Syrio curled his lips into a faint smile and gave an elegant bow. "Your Grace, it is a great honor to meet you. May you be well."
Arya immediately chattered from the side, "Did you know, Gryn? Syrio says I'm a very talented Water Dancer. Once I grow a few more years, and my arms and legs get a little longer, my swordsmanship will surpass his. I really want to grow up quickly now!"
Gryn gave her a brief once-over. After more than a year apart, Little Wolf Girl did not seem to have grown any taller?
Syrio smiled with pursed lips. "If you wish to grow taller, then you cannot be a picky eater."
The crowd burst into restrained laughter. Arya stamped her foot in anger. She had decided not to speak to Syrio today—this was his punishment for revealing her secret!
After a pause, seeing Gryn's gaze turn toward her, the tall female warrior whose outer garment bore a black bear sigil placed a hand over her chest. "I am Dacey Mormont. Your Grace, Bear Island salutes you."
Still excited, Arya temporarily forgot the ladylike etiquette Septa Mordane had taught her and cut in, "Dacey was sent by my mother to escort me. She is now..."
Gryn gave Dacey a slight nod, then took Arya's little hand and