"Arya, who is now eighteen. I've not heard word of Sansa's presence since my arrival," Ned clarified, though he didn't bother to add that he would ride to King's Landing if necessary to find his daughter. "Time is a mysterious thing, but I am glad that we are together again. I never thought I'd lay eyes on you again, nor your siblings. It is a blessing." There was obvious warmth and affection in his tone and he was glad for it.
Bran agreed to go to the Dogwood and Ned smiled, already shifting and reaching for his son. "I do not think so either. I will carry you myself," he replied. He had Bran wrap his arms around his neck and then slid one arm underneath Bran's knees. He lifted Bran up in one steady motion, securing his other arm around his middle. Bran was certainly not as he once was, but Ned was determined to carry his son to where he wanted to go.
He walked down the steps carefully, and then through the familiar path to the Dogwood. "It is far too quiet here," Ned murmured, more to himself than anything. He glanced at Bran and then back to the path. "Once everyone is reunited, I'm sure that will change," he added, correcting his thoughts. It wouldn't do to dwell on the past. All he could do was hope for a better, brighter future.