A/N: just a warning of some sexual scenes in this chapter! Now the beginning of joining the Valreons and Westerosi has begun ;)
Chapter 29: The Ice Melts
Missandei had exited the ship at the Port distraught and refused to be housed with anyone other than Daenerys. Losing Daenerys had been a terrible blow to Missandei, she cried for days beside her body and refused to eat. Grey worm had to force her to eat under the supervision of a team of Healers, her resistance and outbursts had been confronting for him. He had never seen Missandei like this, and he worried for her wellbeing. She was a shell of her former self when she served Daenerys, spending most of her days staring out the windows at nothing particular. Daenerys laid on her floral bed behind her, still looking as if she was sleeping. Daenerys was housed in the Temple of the Long Sleep and the priests who rarely spoke had tended to Daenerys on her arrival. Missandei had stood aside as they embalmed Daenerys skin to prevent her from deteriorating. Missandei had tears streaming down her face as she watched everything they did to her Queen to preserve her. After they left she slid to the floor and sobbed until she fell into a deep sleep. The Healers had come to take her to the Temple of Healers but she had resisted leaving Daenerys. Her Queen had been her whole world, and her identity was closely tied to Daenerys. Missandei felt as though she had lost a part of herself and her world was no longer worth living. Grey worm had stayed by her as much as he could, and other times he had met with the ruling families to organise passage to Naath. The Valreon rulers wanted to ensure the survivors were in good health and that they were aware their time on Naath was limited. Grey Worm was organising how to get to Naath when a Healer arrived at the meeting and interrupted in order to speak with him.
"What is this that's so important to disturb us?" he commanded, the stress of the voyage, losing Daenerys and Missandei's condition all weighing him down.
The Healer knew this and took no offence.
"Grey Worm, you must come now. Missandei has locked herself in the room with Daenerys and may harm herself" she replied gently but firmly.
Grey Worm was shaken to the core, the woman he loved was unravelling and it pained him to see her suffering so much.
The meeting was finishing up so Grey Worm excused himself and rushed back to the Temple. He knocked on the door, there was no answer or movement. His heart was beating in his chest, anxiety growing in his stomach.
"Missandei, open the door. Its me" he said struggling internally with what he was supposed to say.
He strained against the door to hear movement, there was a small scraping sound and then the door clicked.
Grey Worm entered the dark room, and could make out Daenerys body. Missandei sat next to her staring blankly with eyes puffy from days of crying.
"Tomorrow we go to Naath" he said simply.
Missandei closed her eyes and sobbed quietly, that had been her only wish her entire life. But she refused to leave Daenerys, every fibre of her body wanted to go to Naath but her heart remained with Daenerys.
"I won't leave her" she replied.
"I do not understand why, she has left us already. She is not there any more. Our lives go on Missandei"
"I'm lost without her Grey Worm," she sobbed as she pulled out the dagger.
He started towards her but was too late, she slashed deeply down her arms and blood spilled down her body.
"Help! Quickly!" Grey Worm yelled, footsteps came running and Healers filled the room. They stemmed the bleeding and used magic to reverse the wounds. As her skin rejoined Grey Worm breathed a sigh in relief, Missandei had collapsed in shock. The Healers wrapped Missandei in robes for warmth and carried her hastily from the room.
One remained behind with Grey Worm, she placed a hand on his back. He flinched at her touch and turned around aggressively.
"We are lucky she did that in front of you, with that type of cut if we don't get it quick enough it's too late. You saved her"
Grey Worm let out big, emotional sobs and the Healer kept her hand on his back sending him healing. She produced a flask and passed it to him, "Trauma tonic" she said as he took a swig.
He felt the warmth spread through his body and he felt calmer instantly. The anxiety in his stomach dissipated and his head felt the clearest it'd felt in days.
"Thank you" he said shortly embarrassed at his show of emotion and clearly embarrassed.
"You need to come to the Temple also, the Ruling Council has said you must be there to ready for leaving tomorrow."
Reluctantly Grey Worm stood, he stepped towards Daenerys and looked at her still form. She was so delicate and peaceful, her bed covered in lush green vines and flowers. She looked very beautiful, he felt sad after the journey they had been on together that she had died.
"Missandei won't leave her" he murmured.
He turned to the Healer, "what will be done with my Queen?"
"I believe funeral rites begin within the week, she will be cremated by dragon fire and her remains given to Lord Targaryen"
Grey Worm stared away as she gently discussed these plans and he was gutted to hear them.
"We will not leave until this. Otherwise Missandei will not come with me to Naath"
The Healer breathed in and said," I will pass on the message, out of respect you wish to be here for the cremation. You will leave after?"
He nodded, "I will take Missandei when it is done"
Missandei was meanwhile settled in a room in a part of the Temple of Healers where observation was around the clock. She remained in a state of light sleep which maximised healing and treatment for trauma. A Healer was always present and she was monitored at all times when they brought her back to consciousness. Grey Worm was housed near to Missandei and spent every day with her when he wasn't organising the logistics of their journey.
As Missandei rested a Healer came to speak with Grey Worm privately as he watched over her.
"She needs more time here, her past is full of deeply traumatic experiences and she might not fully recover if you leave so soon." pleaded the healer.
"I won't leave her, she needs me"
"She doesn't need long Grey Worm but she needs time. Without our help she might succeed if she tries this again"
Grey worm looked down to Missandeis wrists they looked perfectly healed and free of scars, but he knew if he wasn't there she would have taken her life.
He sighed deeply, perplexed at the choices he needed to make. After a time he conceded, "Missandei will stay, I will go and secure the survivors. Do not let anything to happen to her" he looked fiercely at the Healer as he spoke. His care and deep connection with Missandei etched on his face.
"We know what we are doing, she will be fine" assured the healer,
Grey worm stood and looked over her again, holding her slender brown hand in his darker hand. Looking over her fingers and studying her face, smiling inside at how perfect she looked.
"There's one more thing Grey Worm, it's about the future of you two together. Have you thought about how that would work?" said the healer gently.
He looked back confusion written across his face.
"What you mean? I will be with her, we will be together," he looked back to Missandei, "we will stay on Naath and protect her people. Build life together"
"And a family? That's not really possible is it?"
"We will find happiness another way"
"What if we can help you? Find happiness together, with a family?"
His heart skipped a beat and he felt anger rise in him, anger at what had been taken from him as a child. The innocence, the normal feelings of lust and desire, potential for fatherhood.
"We examined you when you first arrived and it seems what was done to you as a child wasn't done...properly. A small amount of your parts were not taken, they were damaged yes but not completely removed. You were still able to produce some normal male characteristics and feel certain things only men with their whole parts could feel. It would be less than those men, but still there, and the potential for fatherhood a possibility with our help."
Grey Worm spun around at her words, and fixed an intense glare to this woman. His untamed fury at his past exuding from him as he stared her down not believing what she had just said to him.
"I was told I could never have those things" he raged through gritted teeth, "I do not believe this what you are saying"
"If you give us permission we can only try"
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Jon had heard of Missandei's trauma and visited her during her recovery, she didn't know he was present and he did not feel comfortable to stay long. She had been Daenerys most trusted along with Grey Worm and it would hurt Daenerys greatly to know how much pain she was in. Sitting by her side for a time he reflected how much of an impact Daenerys had on their lives and how he had known her for so much less time. Reaching into his cloak he stared at the ring Daenerys wore, rolling it between his fingers feeling its smooth surface brought up many memories. The touch of her hand on his, her warmth and how she perfectly cradled against his body. Jon returned to the present and carefully placed Daenerys ring next to Missandei and left her to recover knowing he needed to finally make the difficult trip to see Daenerys.
When Jon saw Daenerys body he couldn't believe it was real, it was days later and she looked exactly the same as when he saw her last. Peaceful, serene, but not dead. He sat by her side for the longest time and struggled with the reality of her passing. Even though he had seen her in the dream walking he still struggled with the situation. He stood and approached her, his eyes scanning over her entire form. Remembering their short relationship and how it all began, seeing her laying there reminded him of how Ygritte looked the last time he saw her. Jon sighed, anger, frustration and sadness boiling inside him. Twice he had loved and twice he had lost, Daenerys words echoed in his mind 'don't close off that part of yourself'. He studied her face for the last time and shedding a tear he noticed how much his daughters resembled their mother, they did so in different ways but it was there. He knew he would be looking into their faces for the rest of his life and seeing the love that he lost looking back at him. The door opened behind him but he didn't take notice, the footsteps approaching him were heavier than the Healers. Jon glanced back ready for an attack hand on his sword and was surprised to see Aeyrelin approaching him.
Jon turned and faced him as he approached with a curious look on his face, Aeyrelin solemnly extended his hand and they clasped elbows and shook.
"My condolences" said Aeyrelin simply, but with sincerity and full eye contact.
Jon smiled slightly, and looked back to Daenerys, "Thank you, I never thought I'd lay another woman to rest"
Aeyrelin looked to him, "Another?"
Jon's face remained solemn, "I loved another before, wild and untamed she was. She died in battle, I laid her to rest in a similar way to Daenerys. It isn't easy to say goodbye twice"
Aeyrelin patted Jon on the back once, "In our culture it is a great honour to cross to the Shadow, it is in fact the ones who are left behind who are the unlucky ones"
Jon raised his eyebrows momentarily, "I can agree with you on that"
His mind wandered to the Night King and the huge task of rebuilding Westeros. Aeyrelin being strong in powerful magic knew what his thoughts were and smiled.
"I hoped to spend some time with you before we begin our expansion Jon. I will assist you to put Daenerys to rest and anything else you need. We will need strong ties if we are to be brothers by marriage soon"
Jon looked to him and smiled, "It's not just me you need good relations with, you need to spend time with your future wife also"
"Yes and I plan to, from what I've seen on the dream road she has not had good matches with marriage previously"
"On the dream road?"
Aeyrelin smiled forgetting Jon knew nothing of Valyrian magic.
"The dream road is how some Valyrians see through time, others use fire. There's more than one way to do it" he explained to Jon.
Jon understood having known Melisandre, and Bran. "What have you seen?" he replied feeling defensive of Sansas most painful memories.
"Enough to know she's been scarred and doesn't trust men. But our people are not barbaric. To treat a woman this way," he paused, "is a crime punishable by death here. We do not tolerate this"
Jon looked surprised, "Punishable by death?"
Aeyrelin looked at him seriously, "We are all bound by marriage for many years, to hurt someone's sister or mother is serious here. We do not tolerate it"
Jon was impressed by these people more and more, he looked over Daenerys and knew this would be the last time he saw her. He squeezed her lifeless hand and kissed her frozen face. As he opened his eyes after his last kiss on Daenerys he felt the change within himself, closure. He was closing the chapter on their love, he still loved her but he accepted she was gone. What remained was determination to be the best father to his children and rebuild Westeros with the Valreon people. Jon cast one look at her before leaving, her lifeless form enshrined within stunning arrangements of vines and flowers. Then he turned and walked away, never looking back.
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Sansa began to feel herself coming out of the iciness she had formed around herself of late. She still maintained a sense of distance from people but she was beginning to feel the ghosts of her past leaving her. The last session with her healers had begun to loosen the tight grip Ramsay's memories had on her. It was painful to work through them but the healer was persistent and wouldn't let her go without being rid of Ramsay.
"You can't kill me. I'm a part of you now"
Those words no longer tore apart her mind and sent her body into panic. The nightmares had ceased and his voice had stopped whispering in her ear. The Healer had been insistent on removing all traces of Ramsay's abuse from Sansa's mind. To the point where she no longer felt any emotion towards him except happiness he was gone. She started to feel free again and started to venture outside. Sansa's Healers had at her request brought her some Valyrian literature that had been translated so she could learn their history and read their popular stories. They were too happy to oblige. Sansa began to spend her afternoons in the beautiful gardens around the Temple, enjoying the sunshine and the sense of calm and peace that had returned to her. The sun was warm on her skin and Sansa was part way through a Valyrian love story when a shadow fell over her. Peering up shading her face she smiled at the familiar figure and returned to reading her book.
"Hello Ser" she spoke calmly with a smile, "enjoying the gardens?"
"I can't wait to be out of here, all these Healers with their potions and teas. No wine until I'm discharged apparently" spoke the rough voice she had grown to care for.
Sansa shut her book and looked at Sandor, her family had been permitted wine, she was curious why he wasn't.
"Why is that?" she looked at him scrutinising him with her gaze.
Sandor looked down to the grass and was quiet, "They say I have a problem with drinking. I told them to get fucked and bring me some wine. I'm still waiting for it"
Sansa laughed, "Maybe you should get over your fear of fire with them first. Have you thought of just doing what they ask? They know what they're doing Ser"
"Stop calling me that, I'm not knight and you bloody know it"
"Knights protect the weak, you tried to save me and you cared for my sister. They're knightly qualities," she leant forward, "Ser"
He looked at her and scowled, wanting to argue the point but deciding not to bother.
Sansa looked haughtily at him knowing she had won a war of words with the Hound. Not an easy thing to do.
"What will you do when we go back to Westeros Ser?" asked Sansa silkily, with emphasis on the last word.
"I'm not going back there" he replied gruffly, "I risked my life to get here I won't be stupid enough to do that voyage twice."
Looking at him and laughing Sansa said, "So you're now scared of water as well as fire? You need to see my healer Ser Clegane, they will be kept busy with you!"
"Fuck off little bird I see them plenty enough. Not that it's your bloody business but I'm not scared of fire any more"
Sansas face became serious, "You're not afraid of fire? Sandor," he looked to her shocked at the use of his first name, she smiled, "I'm happy for you"
"Enough sentimental bullshit, I heard you're to be married, again"
"What about your brother?" she questioned him in return changing the subject from her impending marriage.
Sandor grumbled, "What about him?"
"Do you regret not getting to be the one to kill him?"
"My brother died long before I had the chance to kill him and enjoy it. I saw him fall fighting those dead fucks, I was happy once I knew he was dead, for good"
Having no response Sansa sat in silence and looked out over the garden, enjoying the moment of being alive and free of pain.
"I don't want to marry again Ser, but I will if I am given time to know this man. I have refused to marry again blindly considering my past. I'm grateful that has been agreed upon"
"I'll admit I didn't trust these people when we arrived but I'm starting to think they're good after all"
"We knew some truly horrific people in Westeros, Ser, it's hard to trust after that"
The birds of the garden swooped and flew all around them, scents of sweet flowers filled the air and butterflies danced all around them. Sansa had said enough and so had Sandor, they sat in silence, eventually Sansa reopened her book and resumed reading. A small smile was across her face and her cheeks flushed at the content of the Valyrian novel. She was startled when a Valyrian man's voice spoke to her and looked up to see a tall, well built and handsome Valyrian man standing smiling next to her.
"Ah that book was very popular in Old Valyria, we were forced to read it as part of our studies in Valyrian history," he chuckled and sat by her side looking at the book over her shoulder.
"So, what do you think of our literature Lady Sansa?" He looked at her with smiling eyes, and a warm face. His long silver hair had been braided and he had a handsome, striking face.
Sansa flushed in embarrassment unprepared for his arrival, "I'm enjoying reading something new, well old if you take in the fact it's from Old Valyria"
"What will you read after this?"
Still flushed and smiling Sansa looked momentarily confused, "I'm sorry, how rude of me I don't know your name?"
Confidently he extended his hand to take hers, "Forgive me my Lady, my name is Aeyrelin Valreon"
He tenderly kissed her hand while looking into her eyes and she felt a sudden rush of desire that she had not felt within her for the longest time. A smile broke out across her face and she laughed nervously, "Pleased to meet you"
Sandor watched the pair skeptically and stood gruffly, "Good day Lady Sansa" said Sandor gruffly.
Sansa watched him awkwardly walk away and disappear into the gardens. She faintly smiled after him before looking back to Aeyrelin, who watched her intently.
Sansa turned to him and took him in momentarily, "Aeyrelin was your name? That sounds familiar"
Aeyrelin spread out on the seat, his shirt revealing a defined torso, Sansa swallowed thickly as she noticed.
"Of course, I would hope it would be familiar. My Lady, we are to be wed in the future"
"Is that what you want?" she questioned him seriously, "because I said I'd never wed again for the wrong reasons"
Her face was serious, he gazed into her icy blue eyes and she stared into his vivid purple ones. Underneath her steely facade she felt butterflies in her stomach at what his answer would be.
"At first everything was drawn up and decided by Alaerya, I didn't choose you Sansa, you were chosen for me. Now that I'm here with you I won't lie to you," he paused and her heart sank, "I'm finding myself more attracted to you than I anticipated. It is a great move for our people to align with yours in marriage, it keeps both of our lines strong," he took her hand again, "but I'm beginning to feel this is more than strategy for me"
His gaze was steady and true, she detected no lies in his words, she felt relieved and her mouth slightly turned into a smile.
"And you Lady Sansa? You mentioned not wanting to marry...again?"
Sansa looked uncomfortable but Aeyrelin was still holding her hand and his touch made her relax.
"My previous marriages were not what I'd hoped they would be. The last one was..." she looked down as Ramsay threatened to return, but the feeling faded.
Sansa regained herself and continued, "The last one was the worst, he did things to me I never thought I'd forget. I thought he would follow me the rest of my life, until I arrived here that is"
She glanced down shyly after sharing more than she intended, embarrassment filling her.
Aeyrelin tightened his hold on her hand and interlocked his fingers with hers. His touch made her body tingle in a way she had never felt before, and she realised no one had ever held her hand this way before either.
"I don't know how much you know about our magic Sansa, but I wouldn't feel right unless I told you. We can wield magic that shows us everything one has experienced..."
Sansa felt anxiety well up in her at the thought of a stranger seeing her most intimate and painful moments. She withdrew her hand from his defensively and he chased her hand and placed it in both of his.
"Don't hide from me Sansa and don't be scared."
"You've seen my worst moments, how can you want someone so...damaged? Surely you could request someone better for you?"
"I could change yes, but I don't want to. I want you Sansa"
Sansa felt overwhelmed, this was like a scene from a love story and she was overcome with emotions.
"I don't know you..."
"Well here I am, stop making excuses and trying to tell me this is a bad idea because I know all your tricks already" he spoke and smiled playfully at her.
Sansa feigned exasperation, "Thats hardly fair is it? I know nothing about you!" she joked.
His face became serious, "I can show you anything you want"
Sansa felt herself leaning in to this man she had only spent a short time with, feeling a little drunk on his words and presence.
She looked down at her pale hand intertwined with his and squeezed tightly, try as she might, she didn't really want to resist this man. She felt warm inside and for the first time ever, safe.
"It seems we will have time to really get to know each other, Aeyrelin" she replied softly with a small smile.
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Jon had resolved to be more present with his children, he constantly felt plagued by guilt that he was leaving them with the Healers. A group of Healers assisted him, and the children to carry their dragon eggs out into the gardens.
"We will take the children to a beautiful fountain in the gardens where they can play" said Jaerna, one of the children's healers.
"Wherever you think is best" replied Jon as he watched them all heading out into the sunshine. They walked through the lush, cooling green gardens, enormous ferns and trees lined the path and the area around. The green coolness felt soothing on the skin and had a peacefulness to it. The gardens were expansive with numerous clearings, they walked through gardens with vines and sweet smelling blossoms until they came to a beautiful shaded fountain. They walked by others sitting in the gardens and Jon spotted Sansa sitting with Aeyrelin who looked like he was holding her hands.
Jon smiled inside and hoped she found some happiness for once, he liked Aeyrelin and felt they'd be the best match she's ever had.
Jaerna laid out a huge blanket and set up the food and placed the dragons eggs next to each child as they sat and began eating messily. Jon sat with them and laughed at their antics, and their mess. It was the first time in a long time he'd felt happy, and carefree. He'd always been so serious but today he let that go and played with his children. The fountain was water jets coming out of the ground in different areas and the children giggled and chased where the water was coming out. By the end of the afternoon they were all soaking wet and very happy. Jon watched with pride as his children were growing to crawling and each developing their personalities. The Healers stood with Jon remarking on the children and laughing as well, in that moment Jon felt immense gratitude for these women. Without them he would be doing this on his own, and most likely be struggling to do so. Nobody heard the dragons eggs on the blanket behind them begin to crack, and nobody saw the eggs shaking as they struggled to break free of their eggs. Jon happened to hear a faint screech and he looked back in astonishment to see four large baby dragons behind them. The children had all stopped playing and looked in amazement at the sudden appearance of the dragons. Without a thought they all clumsily clambered to their dragons, their eyes glowing bright as they approached. Jon's mouth was wide open staring in disbelief, his babies crawled to their dragons and placed their hands on them. Simultaneously the dragons bowed to them and screeched, the children all broke out into laughter and sat watching in wonder as the dragons flew above them. Jon edged closer and saw each of his children's eyes glowed a gold purple light and light radiated out from them all. The light radiated out and enclosed them in a beautiful golden purple cocoon. Jon looked to the Healers who were watching with pride, "What's happening?" he asked half in disbelief and half in worry.
Jaerna's eyes were bright with pride and tears of happiness, "The magic in your children has awoken Lord Targaryen".
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The following day was to be Daenerys Cremation. Jon woke to find the children dressed in new black and red Targaryen dress. His own dress of mourning had been provided to him, it was black and red armour with a large three headed dragon across the back. Being escorted from the Temple to the place for cremation Jon was overwhelmed to see the House Banners of the ruling families had been lowered and replaced with Targaryen sigils all over the island. As a mark of mourning and respect to Daenerys, all people were dressed in black or black and red. This was unexpected and a little overwhelming for Jon. A carriage took them to the part on the island where there was a large cave that opened to the surface. It was crowded with the ruling families and some others. Tywin Lannister was there standing out in his bright red Lannister dress, he was the only person not wearing any black at all. Jon and his family were escorted to the front of the procession where he was met by the Valreon family. In the centre was Alaerya seated on her chair with her sword sitting behind her. She smiled as he approached her and she hugged him tightly, giving him a searching look that needed no words.
"I'm alright my Lady, ready to put her to rest" said Jon sombrely.
Alaerya held him in an embrace a little longer and glanced over to where Daenerys lay. Still on her bed of flowers and vines that had grown more since Jon had seen Daenerys the previous day. His eyes scanned the crowd and amongst the many Valyrians he did not know he saw his people.
Missandei approached being escorted by Grey Worm, both looked serious and somber. Tyrion followed with Jamie in tow and they stood to Jon's side. When all were assembled the Westerosi waited patiently, unsure what was to come next. Raeylion Valreon strode forward and began the proceedings, he addressed the crowd and spoke about Daenerys life and her greatest achievements. Jon felt awkward hearing her spoken about in such a detached manner and he ended up staring into a spot on the ground as the words were spoken. When Raeylion finished he signalled to the priests who rushed forward and placed herbs around her body and rubbed her body down with oils. They prayed over her body in Old Valyrian rituals and chants that were thousands of years old. As they chanted the ground beneath their feet began to tremble and quiver, the power from their voices filled the air throbbing with power. As their chants died down Jon couldn't take his eyes off her body, she seemed to be glowing and appeared translucent. The vines and flowers around her were dancing and swaying in an invisible wind, it was entrancing. So entrancing Jon didn't see the large old dragon appear until the fireball left its mouth. Daenerys was bathed in intense dragon fire so bright everyone shielded their eyes momentarily. When the flames died down Daenerys was gone. Jon breathed out and felt a part of him burn away with her, as her ashes magically rose up into the air and were formed into an intricate and beautiful looking egg. It floated slowly over to him and floated in front of him, he slowly put out his hands and held it. He felt awkward at being watched by everyone and bowed his head as he held onto the ashes. Aeyrelin stepped forward and muttered to Jon, "The ashes are solidified but when planted into the ground will dissolve into the earth, giving life to another"
Jon glanced to him and acknowledged his words, Aeyrelin patted Jon's back as the crowd began to disperse.
He walked by Alaerya and she grabbed his cloak, he looked back to her sharp gaze.
"Bring your sword to me when you fight in your sleep"
Not understanding her cryptic message all he did was nod his head politely and make his way out. Missandei and Grey Worm followed, Missandei was clearly distraught and staring blankly ahead tears streaming down her face.
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The ports were busy as always, ships being loaded with cargo for trade and currency being unloaded to be dispersed among the vaults on Valreos. Jon and Aeyrelin strode through the crowds and made their way towards the ship departing for Naath. Jon had been observing a training session with the new allies and missed their departure from the Temple of Healers. Missandei and Grey Worm awaited his arrival on the dock next to their ship, a black ship with a jewelled sword on the sail.
He drew Missandei into a tight embrace noting how small she felt in his arms, her head rested on his shoulder tears streaming down her face. They drew apart and looked at each other for a short time, Jon feeling sad for her continued grief over Daenerys.
"I have seen her Missandei, it wasn't an easy choice for her to leave us but it was the way it's meant to be. Don't grieve any longer, she is watching over us"
Missandei nodded a wordless response but her tears did not cease flowing, Grey Worm stood looking concerned behind her. Jon reached over and shook his hand, they shared a silent moment of respect for one another. They had never formed a bond or a friendship but they did have respect for one another. That was all that was needed.
"I wish you all the best on your travels to Naath, please get word to our people we will begin their return home soon. Plans are in place and the war council meets this week"
Grey Worm acknowledged, "We will leave some Unsullied with you to command as you wish. When you complete your mission we ask you to send them back to us in Naath."
"I agree and thank you, their help will be appreciated," Jon looked at the two of them, "I wish you both the best, for the future"
Missandei stood back and grasped Grey Worms hand, "I've waited my whole life to return to Naath, I wish it was under happier circumstances with my Queen"
"The future holds happiness for the both of you," spoke Aeyrelin to Jon's surprise, "do not dwell on your losses when you have gains to enjoy"
Jon and Missandei looked baffled at his words but Grey Worm looked more concerned than ever. He bowed and guided Missandei to the ship, she glanced back at Jon one last time and smiled slightly through her tears.
Last to board was Sandor, he shook Jon's hand and spoke gruffly, "As much as I hate the sea I won't be returning to Westeros. There's nothing left for me there except bad memories."
"We could use someone like you there you know" replied Jon hoping to change his mind.
Sandor simply shook his head, "I need to start somewhere new, there's nothing left for me there"
"I respect your choice, I wish you all the best"
"I'm certain I'll see you again, you have a way of popping up in expected places you bloody Northern fucker"
Jon laughed at Sandors candor, "You're not wrong, maybe we will meet again"
Sandor boarded the ship with the briefest glance back at Jon and Aeyrelin before disappearing below deck.
As the ship sailed from port Jon and Aeyrelin watched, Jon turned to Aeyrelin when it was on the horizon.
"Will they make it to Naath? Those storms we went through were something I never want to experience again"
"Those storms were magic placed around the islands to prevent anyone from finding us by mistake, you were allowed passage. All our ships have artifacts on board to allow safe passage. They will not encounter any storms"
"What did you mean by happiness and gains? You spoke a prophecy then, I've been around enough people like you to know there's a deeper meaning behind the words"
Aeyrelin stopped looking at the ship on the horizon and gazed at Jon, "You are right my brother, there will be life where before it was impossible. And that life will be an important one"
Knowing better than to press for more information Jon glanced once more at the ship now a speck in his vision and departed the docks.
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Arya lay entangled in Gendry and woke enjoying the warmth of their bodies pressed against one another. She lay with her head on his chest listening to his breath and feeling his hand on her skin. It had relieved her to learn she wouldn't be forced into an arrangement with anyone other than Gendry. He had held a large place in her heart for years and before leaving Westeros she had been trying hard to suppress it. Arya struggled internally, a large part of her wanted to follow the path her family wanted for her and another part yearned to rebel and remain free. The thing with Gendry was he never tried to force her one way or another, he let her be free and that made her want him even more. Arya wondered if this was how her Aunt Lyanna felt about Rhaegar, as she was often compared to her famous Aunt and sometimes wished she had her around for guidance. Gendry stirred and his eyes fluttered open and focused on her, he smiled and encircled her in his arms. She felt his chiselled body against hers and the hardness from below pressing up against her. She became excited and began kissing his face, he sleepily returned her kisses as he slowly woke up more. She guided him into her and pushed down as he made a groan of surprise and pleasure as he realised where this was going. She felt full and parts of her had sensations she had never felt before, they held each other tightly as she worked on him. They breathed heavily as one and he became harder as she grinded on him, just as he exploded in spasms of euphoria she felt a spreading warmth within herself. They collapsed together panting and Arya began to laugh, the pleasure and warmth making her feel the happiest she'd felt in a long time.
After a few moments of laying together Gendry began circling his hands over her skin, sending shivers up her spine becoming overwhelming for her. She giggled and rolled away looking back at him playfully, he smiled in return and grabbed her dragging her back to him. She rolled on top of him and straddled him, leaning down to kiss him as his hands ran down her back.
"I never imagined it would be like this" he said softly to her.
"I never thought it would be...I never thought we would be alive for this" she returned staring at him intently.
Knowing she meant they would all have died to the Night King his face momentarily became serious.
"Well here we are, let's not take it for granted"
Gripping her waist with his strong arms he flipped her underneath him and kissed from her stomach to her neck, and the dance began all over again.
A time later they dressed and tried to silently slip from the room, but that wouldn't be. The sitting room was full of children, dragons, and their Healers. They were rolling around squealing chasing their baby dragons as they played a cute game of chase. Arya hadn't seen the dragons yet and stood with her mouth gaping, Jon spotted the lovers and looked up a smile across his face. Arya noted this was the happiest she had seen him, ever.
Gendry tugged her hand and they left the children to play while they went to eat, the table was laden with food and the two of them sat together eating and laughing amongst themselves. The sexual chemistry between them was strong and soon after eating they returned back to their chambers not to be seen for the rest of the day.
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Arya enjoyed the familiar feeling of her armour on her skin, she strode through the Valyrian city armed and feeling confident. She had achieved much in her life and was living her life the way she wanted. Something she never thought she would have after her conversation with her father about being the Lady of some great house and having knights for sons. Arya remembered wanting to run away that day, and be wild, living as a wolf, free. She had inadvertently been granted her wish in her travels to Braavos and in her training at the House of Black and White. Now she was a Stark, a trained assassin, and in love. She had managed to have everything her way and she felt on top of the world. Arya marveled at the sights around her, she had quickly realised each island was organised according to its purpose. They were on the fourth island, the one with the active volcano, she learned it was called Allarian Island. In honour of Alaerya's daughter Allaria who's dream walking before the destruction of Valyria signalled to the families it was time to leave and who also was the first ruler of this island. Arya was fascinated with the Temples that made up the island, one in particular drew her interest. She stood under the statue outside in the shadow of a female Valyrian warrior. The woman looked as if she was alive staring out to sea, Arya touched her and she was cold and metal. There was nothing else on the statue, no name or inscriptions. She felt compelled to enter the Temple and investigate, climbing the stairs she heard the familiar sound of steel clashing and it urged her forward. Entering the Temple was a welcome sight, full of Valyrian women warriors in various stages of training and fighting. Arya looked out over them all below her and watched for a time, she felt a woman come to stand next to her. Turning she looked and recognised the woman, it was Aerylle one of her assigned healers. Except today Aerylle was dressed in the same armour as the women from the Temple, Arya looked confused with a look of query on her face.
"Hello Arya, welcome to the Temple of Shaera we have been waiting for you to seek us out"
"What is this place? And I thought you were a healer"
Aerylle looked out at over the female warriors, "In Valyria women were not seen as inferior, we can fight as we choose and we are not bound by one discipline either. So I can be a warrior, and a healer here. That was continued and encouraged when my ancestors came here"
"I like the sound of that" smiled Arya watching the women fighting viciously.
"It's not this way where you're from? You are a warrior?" questioned Aerylle.
"It's not common for women to fight, usually they sew and sit around drinking tea"
Aerylle made a face of horror, then laughed.
"We couldn't be anymore different then, we don't drink tea here for fun either. Sounds like you belong here Arya" smiled Aerylle at Arya. For the first time Arya noticed her beauty and friendliness.
Inside Arya smiled, she knew Aerylle was right, this really was the place she had dreamed of her whole life. And Brans voice echoed around her mind again, he was right. As they looked out over the women they spotted Alaerya sitting on and watching. Aerylle touched Aryas elbow, "Come with me, she's waiting for us"
Arya hadn't met Alaerya but she had certainly heard of her, she had asked the Healers for a history of where they were when she was recovering and they enjoyed telling her. Alaerya sounded similar to Aryas other idols from history, Nymeria and Visenya known for their fierceness and skill in fighting. The old woman was a whisp of a person sitting and watching the women fight, smiling. She watched Arya and Aerylle approach, Aerylle dipped her head in respect and Arya followed.
"Ah Arya Stark, I've looked forward to meeting you. And Aerylle my dear, it's been a time since I've seen you. Keeping you busy with the survivors?"
"Yes my Lady, I've missed my time here"
Arya was perplexed, everyone seemed to treat Alaerya like she was their ruler but she had been told 4 families ruled these islands together. Her confusion was clear on her face, Alaerya indicated the seat next to her.
"Go train Aerylle I'll send Arya to you shortly"
Aerylle bowed and joined a smaller group training close by, Arya watched longingly as they sparred and fought one another. Periodically they flew in the air and fought while off the ground, it was something new that had amazed Arya.
Remembering her place, Arya sank slowly to her chair eyes still on the fighting.
"Seems we have many questions for each other Arya Stark, I'll let you go first. Ask what is in your mind, remember I can see into thoughts"
Arya flushed slightly, "I thought these islands were ruled by the families but from what I've seen you look like the real ruler"
"You learnt keen observation during your time in Braavos but I can see you've always had that about you. What you said and saw is right, the major families who control the islands are the rulers yet out of respect to me and my age they allow me to have final say on things. However if they disagree with a decision I make without their approval I must listen to them. I cannot expect them to follow everything I do, we often disagree but we work on it, together. So yes it seems that I'm the ruler here but I really just enact what the four families desire. When I'm no longer here the power will return to them to make decisions without me"
It made sense to Arya, the woman sitting next to her was the oldest she had ever seen or met and she wondered how old she was.
"I'm 434 years old my dear, and I feel every one of those years."
"I heard you can change though?" Questioned Arya.
Alaerya turned to look at her, and Arya noticed the necklace that was the same as Melisandre's.
"I am not the red priestess, do not fear. We have numerous things in common and one of those is an intense dislike for those red priests"
Arya leaned forward and looked closely at the ruby, it was identical with a few minor differences. It began to glow and she sat back startled, it grew brighter until Alaerya was her younger self again. A smile came across her face and she moved her body freely.
"Why don't you stay like this all the time?" questioned Arya being conscious not to offend Alaerya.
"I can my dear but it has caused many problems over the years. When I remain my young self people forget, they forget the years and experience I have to give wise counsel. They forget the work I've done and the things I've seen. They try to ignore my warnings and it causes more problems for all of us. So I remain in my old form and my people remain settled and happy. It's a small price to pay for peace. Now I believe it's time for me to ask you some questions"
The young version of Alaerya leaned forward and looked deep into Aryas eyes.
"Are you ready to become a woman?"
Arya didn't comprehend what she was being asked she just looked confused, so Alaerya continued, "After a recent turn of events between you and Lord Baratheon we have decided to host your wedding here. Before you return to Westeros"
Arya looked perplexed, she wasn't expecting that question or what came after it.
"Why here?"
Alaerya smiled, "Did you really think nothing would come of you joining your body with your betrothed?"
Aryas mouth gaped, and her hand shot to her stomach causing Alaerya to chuckle.
"Don't look so scared you'll still be able to retain all the things you enjoy when you become a mother"
"I'm not sure I'm ready to be a mother" Arya looked horrified.
"No ones ever ready" laughed Alaerya.
Aryas stomach rumbled in anxiety as she grappled with the idea of being with child.
"Are you certain I'm? It's just...I've never been?"
"It's my turn to ask questions but yes my dear I can see you're with child. Now tell me, how did you come to leave the House of Black and White?"
"You know the House of Black and White?" Arya's face continued to look astonished.
Alaerya laughed, "You can't answer me with a question! That's not how this works but I'll tell you this, I've been there and studied briefly with them as we share the ability to change faces. I also taught them some of their advanced teachings"
Arya fought the desire to continue asking questions, every comment out of Alaerya elicited more curiosity. Alaerya looked amused, "We will have time to share more Arya, now answer the question"
Arya recounted her time in Braavos and received an interested look from Alaerya when she mentioned killing the Waif yet she did not interrupt the story. When she finished Alaerya sat for a time watching the women who never seemed to tire keep fighting.
"Do you think you can keep up here?" said Alaerya softly as they watched the women fight.
"With these fighters?" asked a stunned Arya.
"There's another question my dear, answer me"
Arya gulped, but refused to shy away from the challenge.
"I can only try my Lady" she replied resolutely.
Alaerya jumped to her feet, "Good, stand up. We fight and after, we begin to plan your wedding"
"Why the rush to have me married?" Arya laughed.
"Weddings are a major event Lady Arya, and a chance to host a celebration. Valreon people love to celebrate. Now join us"
Alaerya strutted over to Aerylles group who had taken a break to drink and stretch. Apparently getting to fight with her was a major honour, the other groups ceased fighting to watch and formed a group around them. Alaerya smiled and somersaulted into the middle, her magic slowing her into a controlled and elegant manoeuvre. As she landed with a smile she drew her weapons, two curved swords.
"Let's dance ladies!"
One of the warrior women entered and began to fight Alaerya, Arya watched on in interest. They didn't hold back on one another, they drew blood, kicked, punched and mauled each other in a savage display. The floor was slick with their blood, Alaerya's opponent tired after a vicious attack and bowed out. Another entered and the dance continued, the air was thick with magic as Alaerya's new opponent preferred to fight in the air. The fight alternated between the air and the ground until Alaerya's opponent again bowed out. Aerylle entered, and fought Alaerya for the longest, she was slashed all over from Alaerya's blades but she kept coming. Aerylle fought mostly on the ground but could shoot away from an attack quickly preventing the worst of the strikes landing on her. Around and around they twirled, jumped and tumbled, kicking punching and slashing at the other. Alaerya was slashed all over and bleeding heavily, Arya wondered how someone so old could lose that much blood.
"Enough! Send Arya in!" boomed Alaerya looking energised.
Aerylle bowed out and Arya entered wondering how the hell she was going to fight this unbelievable warrior.
"Arya, there is magic in our blood," spoke Alaerya as she stalked around her, "if you want to keep up smear some blood on you"
Arya looked to the ground, there was blood all around her, she looked to Alaerya covered in blood not all her own. Without taking her eyes off her Arya quickly swiped her hands down and wiped as much blood on her bare skin as she could reach before Alaerya charged her.
Arya was skilled at reading when and where a strike comes from, reading Alaerya was almost impossible. Her face gave nothing away, she didn't grimace in pain, she didn't look anything other than fiercely determined. Arya fought with her staff and fought valiantly, the longer she went she felt her blood beginning to sing. She felt so exhilarated she didn't even feel when she had been struck or where she was bleeding from.
Instinctively she bent down after an attack and rubbed more blood on her skin, the magic of their blood mingled with hers. She looked like a bloody beast, red and fired up for the fight, she felt euphoric and an energy began to rise within her. Again they attacked each other, Alaerya rose up into the air and attacked Arya from above. Something Arya had no experience in whatsoever, she felt out of control at the ferociousness of Alaerya's attacks but she held her ground while sustaining some injuries. She couldn't feel them though, she could only feel the air thrumming with power and energy, it built within her and around her. Alaerya landed and continued her devastating attack on her, Arya screamed out loud as her body screamed with pain. Arya tore apart her staff to reveal two long daggers and went on the offensive, slashing and tearing towards Alaerya. In response Alaerya laughed a strong powerful laugh as she rose up into the air to attack again where Arya was weak. Heaving her breaths as she watched Alaerya rise, Aryas eyes began to glow and she rose into the air to meet Alaerya who smiled proudly as she began a fresh attack.
Fighting in the air was different for Arya, you needed to use your body in different ways without the ground underneath you. And it took some adjusting to do, she defended with some minor losses and viciously attacked in response. The two of them resembled a blur sometimes their attacks were so fast and furious. The magic in the air kept building and Arya began to notice her whole body was glowing and feeling more powerful.
"Keep going!" Yelled Alaerya when Arya felt her body would give way to the pain and throbbing of the fight.
Alaerya attacked and they returned to the ground, now completely red with blood and splashing onto gashes on Arya's legs. One wrong step and she slipped in the blood and fell just as Alaerya was to land a devastating blow to her. Instead the weapon in Alaerya's hand began to glow white hot and she slammed it into the ground next to Aryas body. The earth rumbled and shook as the power reverberated throughout the temple, Arya felt the power ripple through her body and convulsed in both pleasure and pain. When the energy ebbed away she lay on the ground panting from exertion and began to laugh from the exhilaration. Alaerya stood over her and offered her hand, she took it and stood as her eyes adjusted after the brightness of the light. She looked around, the warrior women loudly applauded her and she looked and saw there was no blood on the floor. Alaerya had no wounds and neither did Arya, but she clearly felt the magic coursing through her powerfully.
"Your questions will be answered Lady Arya" smiled Alaerya, "for just now, the wolf within has woken and she's a powerful beast"
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Gendry had decided to investigate the forges of these lands, seeing as all the Valyrian steel the known world has was dwindling he wanted to see where it would be revived.
His request to visit the forges had been approved by the ruling families and he was escorted to the forges by Qaeryis and Xaeron. They met Gendry in front of the Temple of Healing, atop their dragons. Gendry escorted out by a healer walked towards them with mouth wide open.
"I hope you don't expect me to get on one of these" joked Gendry
"That's exactly what you're going to do" smirked Qaeryis.
"You could always walk, but it would take a full day to walk there" grinned Xaeron.
Gendry knew he definitely didn't want to walk and on impulse decided to get on with Xaeron. Without warning the massive creatures leapt into the air and beat their wings, the sound and the sensation sent Gendry's body into panic. He gripped on with his knees and mimicked Xaeron by holding onto a spike. From the air the islands were an incredible sight, the water sparkled and shone, the ground was a hive of activity but so was the air. Dragons were everywhere, and several times the dragon he rode decided to frolic and play to Gendry's chagrin.
Finally the dragons landed on the next island over, and Gendry saw huge structures of the industry which kept the island economy going. As they walked the men explained that Valreos is really the worlds supplier of weapons, jewels, fabrics, spices and magical artifacts.
Gendry was awestruck, what they had created surpassed anything he had ever seen before.
They approached the forge which was built into the mountain and heard the clang of metal on metal followed by roaring.
Entering the forge was like walking into a curtain of blistering heat, Gendry was used to it from his past as a blacksmith and it felt almost welcoming to him. He was shown through the whole workshop and watched intently at the men working on some swords. They really did make everything here, every sword outside of Westeros was coming from here. Qaeryis and Xaeron looked on and around at the work happening, it was efficient and work continued constantly.
"Where is the rest of the weaponry made?"
"What do you mean?"
"These are well crafted swords but I'm looking to see the real Valyrian sword production. You know what I'm talking about"
The men smiled and looked at each other, they led him into another part of the forge. This immediately felt different, it wasn't hot. He noticed instantly, and the air pulsed with some strong energy. The pace of this part of the forge was vastly different, they worked slowly, deliberately and in teams of two.
"Why are there two together all the time?"
"When the steel begins to be folded over on itself the other person assists and ensures the process is smooth. If the smith needs anything, the second man can provide it and it makes the process smooth and seamless."
Once the blade is complete it is inscribed with magical symbols, Gendry watches the men closely as they use a blade to inscribe the symbols. When they're done they speak over the symbols and they flash a brilliant white then green light. The swords are then placed on a pile of other swords and sent to another area.
Gendry follows the pile of blades as they are charged with magic into a large room made of rock. In the middle of the room is a pool of larva and a dragon, a man stands with the dragon and they work together.
The man summons lava to rise out of the volcano and it rains down over the blades. The lava hits the blades and sinks into the metal, rather than melting it becoming one with the sword. When the last of the lava had vanished the man stepped away and the dragon bathed the weapons with fire. The swords glowed hot momentarily before fading, they were bathed again and this time the symbols themselves glowed only. They burned bright for longer and faded slowly, Gendry watched with excitement. He was viewing a process that had until recently been considered lost and many had tried in vain to reproduce this process since Valyria was destroyed. The Valreon men looked mildly uninterested but patiently waited while Gendry watched. When the process was finished he broke into a clap, the dragon and the fire wielders looked at him in surprise. He quickly stopped when he realised how awkward he was being.
The men by his side laughed.
"You don't understand how much of my life I had prayed to see this one day. This was always considered a long lost jewel of Valyrian culture."
The men scoffed, "Your people really had no idea about us, we are so much more than our steel"
"There you go this does go to show you how little we knew. Can I stay here and work? I'm getting inspired to begin forging again"
The men smirked at him and led him to another room where a man forged the steel on his own. He worked expertly, every move was calculated and carefully executed, every weapon had different inscriptions on them. He glanced up at their arrival between working on weapons, Gendry saw he had made armour and other types of weapons.
"Gaellyn, your apprentice is here to begin work" spoke Qaeryis grandly.
"It's about time boy I've been waiting for you for weeks now. Get in here and get to work, we begin right away"
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Jon decided to spend some time alone and leaves the children with the Healers. He leaves them playing and chasing the dragons, laughing and rolling around. As he walks from the Temple into the gardens he feels his sword swaying on his hip. The feeling spurred a barrage on memories, his time in the Nights Watch, as King of the North, and now an exile. He feels the weight of what's to come weighing down his moods again, emotionally he feels up and down. Finding a secluded place in the gardens he begins some drills with his sword. He warms up with footwork practice and slow movements with his sword. He takes his time to the most painstaking detail and loses himself in the moment. He feels ready to go up in intensity and rips off his cloak as he practices against an invisible opponent. His minds eye flashing with the faces of the wildlings and army of the dead. His emotions reach boiling point as he thinks of Daenerys dying and the life ahead of him. The uncertainty, the fear, the changes... all the while he slashed and danced with his sword like an extension of himself. Somehow his shirt had been torn from his body and he stopped panting sword in hand. He sensed someone behind him and spun to see Aerylle standing behind him in battle armour. He heaved his breaths as he looked over her also slick with sweat from training. He didn't know where she'd been, he didn't even know she could fight. Whatever it was he knew she made him feel some kind of way, he strode forward and threw Longclaw into the ground. It's blade struck the surface of the dirt and lodged there shaking from the force. He grabbed Aerylle from behind her head and pulled her in for a deep kiss, she melted into his embrace and reciprocated, running her hands down his back. Her body pressed up close to his and she felt his arousal, she led him still kissing deeper into the garden where the plants were thicker and provided cover. She touched the side of his pants and with her magic they fell to the ground exposing him. He looked at her and was surprised somehow her clothes had melted off her also. He took a slight moment to look over her exposed form before pulling her close again. She grabbed his shoulders and threw him to the ground straddling him and feeling him enter her and filling her completely. His body shuddered involuntarily at the intense tightness around him and the sensations it made him feel. She leaned over smiling to kiss him passionately as she begins.
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That night Jon collapsed into bed exhausted from the day, he tosses and turns struggling to get the encounter with Aerylle out of his mind. He feels her body on his, her long silver hair trailing over his sides, and he feels her tightness inside. Unable to shake the memory of her he lashes the sheets aside and gets from his bed. Striding to the other side of the room he snatches up Longclaw and begins to do some drills. After a short time he puts the sword down wrapping it and carefully putting it away. He returns to bed and feels more settled, he slips easily into a dream.
Back at Winterfell, he walks through the broken deserted castle, bloodstains litter the ground but there are no bodies. A cold wind blows and snow falls all around him, his feet crunch on the snow as he walks through the ruined castle. He walks through where their old rooms were, his Uncle and Aunts, his sisters, his brothers, well cousins to be technical. He walks into the dining hall and runs his hands along the great table so many important Stark meetings have been held at. The history in this place was rich and long, now it was in tatters. He heard a voice calling his name ever so slightly, reluctantly he turned and followed it. It came from the crypts, just like his dreams, calling him to go down there where he does not want to go. Into the dark with the dead Starks, he draws Longclaw and edges down the stairs. The light disappearing above him as he steps lower and lower, the only light from his sword. He notices his sword had begun to glow faintly, he dismissed it thinking he was seeing things. He reached as far as he could go and noticed the level he was at had many torches lit in the walls. His heart rate increased as his mind raced thinking who this could be and as he edged further into the crypts he heard scraping noises. Shadows slowly came towards him, moving awkwardly but deliberately, and eyes shining blue. It took him half a moment to recognise what had happened, he turned to escape the crypts but they streamed down the stairs behind him trapping him to die in the crypt. He gripped Longclaw and prepared to face the undead Kings of Winter, he felt the cold collect around him and merge with the fire in his heart and his anger. The feeling in his hands began to tingle and LongClaw glowed again, he caught a glimpse of shapes on his blade. He didn't have time to notice the details of them as he clashed with the long dead from the Stark crypts. He slashed and stabbed desperately trying to claw his way out of the trap, as he did his sword started to glow white hot and bright. The symbols so bright and burning their shapes burned into his memory. As the sword burned bright it exploded with power all around him and the undead Kings of Winter were vanquished.
Jon came back to his physical body from the dream with such force he sat up in his bed panting and doubled over. Sickness and anxiety making him shudder all through his body
