The story I'm about to tell you, is a story of a little girl who grew up to be one of the best fighters in the Seven Kingdoms. She was an extraordinary young lady from the moment she came on to this world. Born in Dorne, but adopted quickly after her birth, she was brought up in a dangerous place, called the Bear Island. Inhabited by these large animals, living there as a human was deathly. Even the most skilled fighters, born and bread on that very island, were killed by those creatures. Everyone not fit enough to fight, was killed on the spot, which is one of the reasons women on Bear Island know how to fight. That, and the Iron Islander who invade one or another island close to them every now and then.

But you already know that. What you don't know is a story about Aleyna, Lady Mormont, Lady commander of Bear Island who went on becoming Commander of Queensguard, fighting alongside some of the greatest knights the world has ever seen, fighting for the one true ruler of the Seven Kingdoms. Daenerys Stormborn of House Targaryen.

She didn't know she was adopted until her older brother, Jorah, got married. On that very night, she learned that her dear brother is not her brother by blood but only by name. It was kept a secret because islanders have reported that it is possible Jorah has feelings for her that go beyond allowed ones. He knew the story – by the time Aleyna came to Bear Island, he was already 15 and it would be difficult lying to him. He was made to keep the secret until appropriate time would arrive. Jorah wasn't affected by that; he loved her as a brother but as she was growing up, he realized it could be difficult to hold back.

For her fourth name day, Aleyna got a present that changed her life. Jorah had a sword made for her. A tiny sword for a little girl his sister was. The first time she held that sword, it was obvious she was born to do it. Even though she was tiny with no trace of muscles, the sword never fell from her hands. Jorah was surprised just how quickly she learned the basic moves. As the years went by, she got better and better. She could as well join Kingsguard at the age of 13. And that was the year that changed everything.

Jorah was 28, he had no wife and was forced to marry one. Aleyna's training was left to a friend of Jorah's, who was in a personal guard of Lord Commander Mormont. He grew quite fond of her, being more of a boyfriend than a teacher. He wasn't ugly, rather contrary, quite good-looking, well-built young lad, about 8 years older than her, so just the right age difference for a future husband. One day, Jorah came by to see how are her little sister's fighting skills improving, only to see her with his friend, kissing instead of practicing sword fighting.

»Hey!« His loud greeting made them part, looking in his direction. »I made you her teacher, I don't recall giving you permission for anything else.« He backed of, returning to his duties. Jorah turned to Aleyna.

»You really shouldn't mix with him.«

»Now, why would that be, Jorah?« She was annoyed a little, having her big brother ordering her who to fall in love with.

»Do you know him?«

»You mean, do I know a man who was teaching me for the past year, who was practicing with me several times a day every day? I'd say I know him.« He smirked.

»Well, I trained him. And he can be very bossy. I don't think you can get along. You have a much better future in front of you, don't mess it up for a man like that. It's better being alone than being trapped with someone you end up not loving at all.« Saddness was written all over his face, trying to be hidden, but couldn't be. He swallowed.

»Jorah? What happened?« He looked down, with shame in his eyes.

»I'm marrying a woman I don't love. Because father told me so. And there's family's honour at stake, I can't risk it. I know she'll use me for money and other material goods, and I don't care for them. But I'll never get anything in return. Not a trace of love.« He wanted to cry, one could see it in his eyes, tears gathering to produce a fountain. He wanted to at least be given a chance to find a woman he'd love.

Sorrow. And pure hell. There's nothing worse than being with someone you know you could never love. And they don't love you, either. Aleyna put down her sword. She hugged Jorah as tight as possible.

»I am so sorry, Jorah. I am so so sorry.«