Alys Karstark

Alys Karstark is the only daughter of Rickard Karstark, Lord of Karhold. She was betrothed to Daryn Hornwood, heir to the Hornwood, they were arranged to marry when she flowered. However Daryn was killed in the Battle of the Whispering Wood, as were two of Alys' brothers, Eddard and Torrhen, by Ser Jaime Lannister while protecting Robb Stark. Rickard writes to his daughter, telling her he will find another betrothal. He offers her hand to whoever brings him Jaime Lannister, after they are released. The Brave Companions, a particulary vile sellsword company, capture Jaime and their leader, the psychotic and ambitious Vargo Hoat, hopes to deliver Jaime to the Karstarks and marry Alys.

Rickard is executed by Robb for murdering two squires who were cousins of Jaime, along with making his men desert to search for Jaime. His only surviving son, Harrion, becomes Lord of Karhold. However they are captured by the Lannisters and held at Maidenpool.

Rickard's uncle Arnolf Karstark has been left as castellan of Karhold and plots to gain control. He declares for Stannis Baratheon, hoping this will prompt the Lannisters to execute his great-nephew Harrion, making Alys inherit Karhold. Arnolf plans for her to marry his eldest son, Cregan Karstark. Alys thinks Cregan killed his first two wives and will do the same to her once she bears him a son. She rides to the Wall to seek help from Jon Snow, the last son (apparently) of Eddard Stark. She is pursued by Cregan, but reaches Jon Snow, who arranges her marriage to Sigorn, Magnar of Thenn. Alys hopes to retake Karhold with the aid of the Thenns.