Hi all, sorry for the long wait. Have been busy as of late. But here you go!

Ever since the reveal of Brienne's pregnancy, Jaime finds himself visiting her more often. Sansa too had noticed her frequent absence and decided for her to rest, much to her dismay. Instead, Jaime had volunteered to take her place.

At first, she was reluctant to have another Lannister by her side, but Tyrion said otherwise.

"You can trust me, Lady Sansa," the dwarf said, "He had done foolish things in the past, and that had cost him his hand," Jaime grumbled at the mention of it, but the imp didn't care. But Sansa only glared at him, still not convinced. Tyrion sighed, "Look, my brother is now a father. Again. And this time, his child is in the womb of someone who swore to protect you. Isn't that enough proof that he will not kill Lady Sansa for our dearly beloved sister?"

Jaime nodded, "I swear it, by the old gods and new…...whatever gods you worship here."

The Lady of Winterfell was still skeptical of his vows, for words are words. But she knows Brienne, and she kept her words when she trusted him that he will fight for Winterfell. If she trusts him now, then there is no reason for her not to do the same.

That was why she agreed.

Although he was not allowed to be present during meetings, he stood outside, as any Kingsguard would. And when he is not needed, he'd go to Brienne. Attending to their son's well-being.

"Oh please, Jaime," Brienne grumbled as she sat back on the bed, "It's just one baby, even the Queen could manage two."

"As far as I'm concerned," he pours water into her cup, bringing it to her, "the Queen had more help than you do. The servants here aren't quite friendly to strangers, not even to the sworn protector of the daughter of the late Lady Stark."

She scoffed as she took the cup, "I can handle it myself."

Jaime chuckled, watching her drink, "I won't know when I'll return anyway, the least I can do is know that you are as healthy as I left you."

"Don't worry about me or the young cub here," she gently ghosted her hand on her swollen belly, her gown revealing her swollen belly. Surely the entire castle should know that there is another pregnant woman, "It's you I'm worried about."

"I'll be fine," he said, "Besides, there's a chance that I might meet our son out there at King's Landing. Might as well take a good look at him."

"Right," she grunts back onto the bed, laying down, "You better come back to me, Jaime Lannister. I can't raise him on my own, and you did this to me."

The Kingsguard scratched the back of his head, chuckling, "He wasn't planned, but it's a good surprise."

"Hmm…."

A knock came at the door, making the two of them turn, "I'll get it," Jaime said, and walked towards the door and opened it to see who is it….

Only to find the King and Queen by the door, and Lady Sansa just standing behind them, catching Jaime off guard.

"I hope we are not intruding," a familiar voice commented, not coming from Jon and Daenerys themselves. Jaime looked down to see that his brother is also present, "We'd like to have a word with you both."

Jaime looked to Jon and Daenerys, she nodded, "All of us do."

He swallowed, fearing what she would say to him or Brienne but complied anyway, after all, they are the future King and Queen, "Brienne, we have visitors." And he gave them the way in.

Jaime could hear her pout, "Oh, what is it-", and stopped at her tracks when she came face to face with Jon and Daenerys, alongside Sansa Stark. She quickly sat up fast, trying to address the respect she always did to them.

"That would not be necessary as of the moment for you, Ser Brienne," Jon Snow immediately halted her, knowing what she was about to do.

"But…"

"Seeing that you are carrying our children's closest friend is understandable," at the mention of her son, her eyes widened, "And I would prefer not to break their hearts if anything would to happen to their friends again, nor to my good-sister's knight."

So, they know. Of course, they know. "I…I apologize."

"Ser Brienne," This time, Lady Sansa spoke, she sat beside her, "It has been an honor and I appreciate what you did for me and Winterfell. I thank you that you are still loyal to my late mother's last wish."

She nodded, "It is my duty."

The daughter of Lady Catelyn smiled, "And now, you may rest until the babe is out." Ser Brienne's eyes widened and was about to protest, but Lady Sansa halted her, "Right now, you are in no condition to fight, and I would prefer that you rest so that you can be by my side again once the babe is born."

"I….I understand."

She nodded, then she turned to Jaime, "I'm certain that you know that you will be joining my brother and good sister face your sister," Brienne can see him getting nervous, "But seeing now that you have a son, and it turns out that he is my niece and nephew's ally, I trust you know where your loyalty lies. May I trust you that you will help stop your sister?"

He nodded, "Aye."

"One last chance, Ser Jaime. She had done quite enough to this realm," she firmly stated, reminding her the way Lady Catelyn would order her people.

"You have my word," he bowed, giving her a genuine respect.

"Good," Jon nodded, "I suppose a congratulation is in order for the both of you, it is good news that the Kingsguard has a future."

"Thank you, Your Grace," Jaime said.

He smiled, "Ser Brienne, as much as I wanted Ser Jaime to be by your side to watch over you, we are in need of him for the next war with Cersei."

"I understand."

Jon nodded, "My sister has arranged the servants to help tend to you, they will see to it that the child is unharmed. As for your temporary replacement, as per Ser Jaime's recommendation, I have assigned Podrick Payne to be by her side."

"I see," she murmured, her squire has actually been as of help whilst he was with him. She cannot help but feel proud for him, "He will not disappoint."

"I know he won't," Jon said, and deep down, he knows why.

"You want me to take keep an eye on Lady Sansa and Lord Brandon?" Podrik exclaimed in disbelief. Luckily, they were in the council room just this morning, just him and Dany, together with the lad.

"Aye," he said, "Ser Brienne is in no condition to fight, and her partner is coming with us to end this war. So, I need you to help them here."

"Alright," he sounded nervous, perhaps it's because he had never had to guard someone else with such high profile, "But I am just a squire…"

"Trained under Ser Brienne," Dany added, "I have heard quite a few things about you from Lord Tyrion himself. I think you will do just fine."

"I…." the boy hesitated, "Thank you, Your Grace," feeling proud to have the trust of the King and Queen.

"One more thing, Podrick," Jon said, "I would like you to keep a close watch on Lord Brandon as well. Not because he has lost his ability to walk, but he has these….senses. From what I see, it is dormant as of now, but I do not want him to be lose himself from it. It's not… a pretty sight, you might say."

"I see," he hummed, "I understand, I shall keep watch of Lady Sansa and Lord Bran."

Jon nodded back, "Thank you."

"Ser Brienne," Daenerys called to her, "I'm certain that my son had told you about your son. From what I've heard, they both are great friends," she nodded, she wouldn't forget the boy who knew about her state. And what he told about her son, "I'm hoping that when you are fit enough, you'd like to join the Kingsguard, alongside Ser Jaime here."

This made the both of them look at her with wide eyes, Brienne especially.

"Your Grace," she finally found her voice, "What do you mean?"

The Dragon Queen smiled, "I have seen how much devotion and loyalty you did for the late Lady Catelyn, even though she had passed, you still carried out your promise to her and guarded her to this day."

"I…It's the only thing that matters," she softly said.

"And that is why I'd like you to join Ser Jaime," Daenerys said, and turned to Sansa, "If my good sister here wouldn't mind."

The Lady of Winterfell nodded, "I don't think it's a bad idea. The new Westeros need strong and loyal people by the time the Stark-Targaryen reign will come."

"Thank you, Sansa," she smiled and turned back to Brienne, "I won't force you if you do not want to, but I'll let you decide. However," she ghosted a hand to her swollen belly, the similar size with Brienne herself, "I can tell you that my children will need friends when they are born."

Brienne smiled at the thought of her son to be friends with their Graces' children. What a wonderful dream, and not to mention, the thought of a lion cub to be friends with Dragons doesn't sound so bad. It destroys the bridge of hate.

But then….who will be at Lady Sansa's side if she does go? Will Podrick still want to guard Lady Sansa until his dying breath?

"You can decide this once we take back King's Landing," Jon said, easing her thoughts, "For now, it's best you focus on your health. Otherwise, my children will hang me if another of his friend is hurt."

She chuckled, "I understand. Thank you."

The King nodded, "We'll be back before you know it," he said, "And I'm certain your son would be on his way to meet you soon."

Lya tightened the ropes of her pack, ensuring that it's not lost before tossing it in a carriage an Unsullied will take. Every guard and soldier has been preparing to march, lining up their stations, and preparing their wagons filled with armors, supplies, tents. Even the Dothraki's are all lining up their horses.

Greywind hopped up on the carriage, thinking that she would climb in it, she chuckled and pushed him a little, "Come on down, boy. You are not allowed to be up here."

The wolf huffed and obeyed, hopping down and scurried to her legs. She couldn't help but smile.

"You ready?" her brother called to her as he walked to her, carrying his pack and his other Valyrian sword, Longclaw in his hand, and her bow and quiver on the other. He had to sneak into her chambers to get it.

"All good," she replied, "Just waiting for the word from their Graces."

"Their Graces, huh?", Rhaegar tossed his pack like her, handing her weapons as well, and then adjusted Longclaw at his back, "We are finally getting there."

"Hmmm," Lya looked back to the castle where their mother and father are still currently at, most probably speaking to their aunt and uncle, "We just need to ensure that nothing else would stray them away."

"So long as that Three-eyed Raven won't interfere," he murmured, crossing his arms.

"Papa said that he'll make sure Sansa would see to him," she said.

"Words are wind," he murmured, the hint of distrust is there.

"Alongside Ser Brienne," she added, "she might be able to help."

"I don't like it when this place is left unattended without Muna and Kepa," Rhaegar said, staring at the castle in concern. Lya understands this, the skepticism is getting to him. Unexpected things had happened to them that changed their lives, how could they not be concerned?

"You'll just have to trust that Lady Sansa can manage Winterfell, my lads."

The twins turned as they heard another voice. Ser Davos walking towards them, his armors prepared. If she didn't know better, he still looks like the same old man who helped them adjust in Westeros.

Lya smiled, "Ser Davos."

"Princess," he nodded.

Her eyes widened at how he addressed her, "Please don't call me that here."

"Don't worry," he chuckled, "I've spent quite a long time here and how I address you like this," he took his place between the twins and leaned back on the carriage, "won't raise their concern."

"I won't be too optimistic about it," Rhaegar frowned.

"Perhaps," Davos grunted, "But Winterfell may not be as damned as what your place used to be, just look at how much the people gave their trust to King Jon, alongside your mother. And how Lady Lyanna was all in for this, fretting the rest of the Lords here, this place is getting used to your mother's armies. I say we are in good hands." Ever the optimist.

"Hopefully it stays that way," he replied, still not looking at him, but she can feel him brooding.

"Look lads," he started, drawing their attention, "I know your past wasn't well. It must've been so bad that you all had to come here, and from what your mother and father told me, you lack trust because of it."

Lyanna cringed at the mention of it, what did they speak to him about? "What did they say about us?"

"Not much, don't worry," he said, "Just the things that I needed to know about the realm."

"I see. But yes, we can only tell you that," she said, "Our parents were more concerned on our personal lives, which were affected by the downfall of our time."

"So, they say," he said, "but I am truly sorry for what you both had to go through."

"Ahh, don't worry about it," Rhaegar scratched the back of his head, "We're going to change all that anyway, so whatever happened at our time won't happen here. So, you can forget all that," he turned to look at the castle again.

Ser Davos only nodded with sympathy, he stepped forward, and turning around slowly to look at them, "There is a saying, that history could repeat itself. Which is why, your stories may be of help," eyes looking serious, "I have no right to know what happened in your past, but if you could share a little, perhaps not to me, but to your parents, then perhaps we could avoid what you both had experienced."

"I see," Lyanna said, that makes sense. Muna had done all she can to not turn like their grandparents, she did hold on for a while but loses it in the end. But if she didn't get a reminder back then, perhaps all is lost, and she would never be born, "I think we are slowly telling them, just not all yet. It's a lot to take in. I mean, 18 years of our lives….. that's a lot of stories to tell."

"Understandable," he hummed, "But you can rest assured that we are…. How do I put it… re-routing from where you go, thus changing the course of history."

Lyanna nodded, it is certainly good news, but at the same time, the people like Jon….. her otherself will never know of him, or how a wonderful person he was. She knew what they signed up for but didn't realize that it could happen even before the Long Night. Oh, Jon. She looked up to Ser Davos, not wanting to break his optimism, not wanting to think otherwise what would happen, she nodded, "You are right, we will get there, right Rhae?" She turned to her brother, who didn't look like he's listening. Instead, he is still looking up the castle, brooding again.

Suddenly, a small irritation began creeping up her. How can he not listen to what Ser Davos has to say? Knowing that her brother is not going to stop brooding, she took her hair tie that is currently pulling her hair up, now down. Giving it a stretch, hanging it on the edge of her thumb, and stretching with her other hand, she aimed it on her brother's head and released it.

Hitting right where she was aiming for. Rhaegar flinched, "Ow!" he covered the back of his head with his hand and turned to look at her, violet eyes flaring with annoyance, not something new for her, "What'd you do that for?"

She crossed her arms in irritation, "Stop brooding, will ya? You make me look like I have to babysit you."

"I do not brood," he growled, "And really? Using your hair tie?"

But that didn't even make her flinch one bit, as a matter of fact, this is like breakfast to her, "Look, I know you are worried about the next upcoming war but worrying won't solve anything, and you know that better than I do."

"Can you at least tell me that without using your hair tie?"

"Well, are you going to listen?" she retorted.

"Of course," he shot back a little too fast.

"Uh-huh, of course, you will," now it's her turn to be skeptical, one thing she learned living with her big brother is that he barely ever listens to her, "We can trust things can be manageable here while we are gone. Lady Sansa will make sure of that, after all, it's her domain."

"Fine, fine," he grumbled and stuffed his hands in his pocket, "But I'd prefer if it's still in our watch, especially our dearly beloved uncle."

"Well, considering now that she's on our side, perhaps things could be manageable. Just like when Papa went to Dragonstone," she said, proving him a point, "And you heard him himself, ever since we arrived, he wasn't able to find that raven. Perhaps we have an advantage here."

"And what if he's back when we are gone?"

"Well, seeing how we were gone, and he didn't make his move proved otherwise," she chastised. If anything, ever since they came here, the presence of another being seems to not be present at all. In fact, their parents were more focused on looking for them, there were no plans on going South. Now that they are here, they do plan to move out.

And if what Brandon said is right, Jared and Robb might be on their way here. This means they must've improvised their plan on staying at Essos with Lady Olenna and Myra Reed.

"Excuse me, lads," Ser Davos cleared his throat. Lya had completely forgotten the Onion Knight is still with them, "Speaking of marching to the South, Her Grace had given instructions to bring Bronn of the Blackwaters with us."

"Muna did?" she was astounded, "But why?"

"From what I've heard, we will gain information as we go on from him," he answered.

"I see," Rhaegar hummed, "Do you want me to keep an eye on him while we march to the South?"

"That would be perfect, however," he added, "It seems that you are capable to scout the perimeter without anyone noticing. Will it be possible for you to alert us on any active spies ahead? So you go on ahead of us?"

"Well, we should be able to do that," her big brother said, "But seeing that not many trust us yet, it may be a little difficult for me to go on my own."

"Which is why I had Ser Sandor come with you."

"What?" the twins exclaimed simultaneously. Their parents didn't talk about this.

He shrugged, ticking Lya a bit, "I have spoken to their Graces two days ago, they seem to accept it. And Ser Sandor may not like it, but he has orders to obey."

"We weren't informed about this," he grumbled.

"I didn't mention this yet, I wanted to tell them but they didn't have the time for me to speak with them," he chuckled, "heavy is the crown on their heads."

"I don't see that damn crown yet," Rhaegar grumbled again.

I suppose this is what ruling is all about, Lya brushed it off. Not having any problem at all being under their parents.

"Ahh, there you both are!" another voice boomed, taking the three of them of their discussion. They turned to see Tormund approaching them. Chest up and walking with pride, "Well, well, would you look at my precious children," his arms wide open, as if expecting a hug from them, making Lya and Rhaegar looking at each other, sharing the annoyance they had on the Wildling. Who is he calling them children? "Little seeds of romance, blossoming in the South," this made Lya quirk an eyebrow up, "Your parents will be thrilled...what with your being betrothed…."

"DON'T," Lya and Rhaegar exclaimed, as they both knew where this is going, she crossed her arms, "We are not going there."

"And we will never be even close to there," Rhaegar said, "Is there anything else you want to say?"

Tormund, not getting the signal, could only blink, "I thought you both were. Where I come from, we are more honest to claim a woman."

"And we too are honest when we said we are not in love with each other," Rhaegar retorted back, then he turned the other direction, but not before grabbing her hand just like before, "Come along we have to prepare for our march."

Lya could only stumble as she was dragged away by her brother. She turned to Ser Davos and Tormund, "I'll see you both later," she shouted back, and walked outside the castle together.

The two friends of Jon Snow could only stare at the somewhat mischief twins, "I honestly thought they were." The Wildling said in confusion.

Ser Davos chuckled, "Well, just like their parents, they are both just as lost as they are."

The march to the South was unlike when they first arrived at Winterfell. Back then, it was the fight to protect Winterfell, Jon's home. Now, it's for a greater purpose, to restore Westeros when the Dragon once ruled the Seven Kingdoms, restoring her family's home.

The four Dragons flew above, keeping a safe distance where Jon can still see them above. Nymeria's pack followed in a safe distance too, they looked more like observing than being at their side. Ghost, on the other hand, padded beside Jon's horse, together with his master.

However, what she didn't expect is that her pregnancy had made her be more cautious. In fact, whatever she does now, she had to be more careful, for if she dies, so will her twins. And their travel here would be meaningless.

Dany had no choice but in need of a carriage, to which Sansa had it prepared for her after her request when she realized that riding on a horse will not help her condition. Missandei had volunteered to stay by her side in the carriage, but Jon on the other hand, as much as he wanted to, couldn't.

And Dany was the one who made sure that he won't accompany her, for he has to lead the army now.

The twins, on the other hand, the question on why The Hound is keeping an eye on them now. They understood that they need to gain their trust, but they would've preferred they know this before. But to be fair, they only considered it, but not accepted it yet. But at the last minute, they were agreeable with Ser Davos's proposal.

"Come now," Dany soothingly said, "I know this is sudden, and this is not because we are keeping it from you. We're hoping for you to guard us, but Ser Davos mentioned having Ser Sandor accompany you, it won't be such a bad idea."

"We'd prefer if we stay by your side actually," Rhaegar protested, "What if there are assassins?"

"We have guards who will surround us, my dear," their lack of trust had made them paranoid, just as much as they were, "If it makes you feel better, I wouldn't mind if Greywind stays with me."

The twins looked at each other as if considering the idea. Lya then nodded, "I don't think he'll mind, won't you, boy?" She scratched her wolf's head.

Greywind yipped with delight, he then padded towards her, as if understanding what he must do. Their bonds are just like Jon and Ghost, she can see so much of Jon in her.

When Dany entered the carriage with Missandei and Greywind with Jon's newly hatched dragons, the wolf was surprisingly calm for the entire ride. Only panting and looking out the window, and if he gets bored, he'd demand scratches from her or nosing her swollen belly. And on some occasions, he'd lay still on the other side of the carriage and the dragons would climb on him.

"They are quite healthy, Khaleesi," Missandei commented as Rhaena climbed on Dany's lap, snuggling close to her belly where the twins resided in her. To think that this red dragon never hatched made her solemn but grateful that finally she can be born into the world.

She couldn't help but smile, stroking its scales, "They reminded me of my own children when they were but their ages."

Her friend smiled, "Your own children are beautiful," she told her, "I'll be happy to serve them too."

"They are quite a surprise, but a good surprise," Dany said. She was skeptical that even if she's pregnant, it's no guarantee that they would survive. But to see that they grew up to be a fine pair warms her heart. But it wasn't her who raised them, "I wish I could've done something more to help them in their time," she murmured.

"I'm sure you did everything you could, Your Grace," Missandei held her hand, "I've seen you rule, and not even once did you turn your back on us. Rather you did all you can to find peace. Now that his Grace has come to his senses for you, the twins will be in your watch now. And you won't be alone to raise them this time."

Dany smiled at her remarks, "Thank you, Missandei." Greywind felt her remorse and crawled to her, putting his head on her lap, as if demanding strokes. The baby dragons on his back clung to his fur. What a rare sight to see, a wolf caring for dragons. She can't help but oblige to his silent request, "Thank you too, Greywind," the wolf licked his nose and gave out a small grunt before snuggling closer to her belly.

"So, this is Princess Lyanna's wolf?" Missandei asked, looking at the wolf in awe, "I've seen him with her a lot more than her brother."

"It appears so," Dany said as she strokes his fur, "A part of my betrothed is in her. In both of them."

"And you too," her friend smiled, "I look forward to getting to know her and her brother."

"I'm certain that they will love you," she looked at her friend, who had been with her since the start of her first liberation. She would definitely make a find tutor and companion for her twins.

"Did they tell you what happened to me in their time?"

Dany's face nearly fell at that question. It's not that she didn't need to know from them, she already knew it. The way she was executed… "I…" she stuttered, "they didn't tell me," which is true, "And I don't think they want to go into detail on what happened to their past. It haunts them every time we asked."

"They must've gone through a lot," her friend murmured with sadness.

"Yes," she said, "They did everything they could on their own." She knows what it's like to be alone, even when she was leading, there were times she felt lonely. That was why Daario was with her sometimes, and now that she thought about it, it disgusts her.

"You will make a proud kingdom, Your Grace," Missandei broke her train of thoughts, "To be with King Jon, a healthy pair of twins, wolves, and dragons. Nothing can ever compare your reign with others."

She nodded, "I couldn't have gone this far without you, my friend."

Missandei smiled at her, "And I wouldn't be alive because of you."

The two of them are content with each other and they both looked out the window, watching as the sun rises up high.

At the front of the march, Jon rode with Ser Davos while his twins scouted ahead with Ser Sandor. From how they both observe their surroundings, he could tell that they were trained by Wildlings or the people beyond the Red Waste. The way they get down their horses swiftly and examined the grass, the trees, how the Nymeria's pack behaved, it was with pure caution, something that the people in Westeros wouldn't do. They could identify tracks in such subtle areas.

And the way they look as if they are one with nature astounds him so much. No wonder they were able to slip around without anyone noticing.

But Lyanna, on the other hand, is one with the eagle. She had her eyes present in hers and Torrhen's, multitasking on her line of sight. With her hood on, it's hard to tell if she's warging.

"Your twins are quite impressive," Ser Davos commented, "Not even Ser Sandor could catch up with them."

"Or they are trying to get rid of another tail behind them," Jon chuckled, he could tell Rhaegar is already irritated having someone other than his sister as his companion.

"Aye, that's true. However, if we don't want our people to get suspicious of them, this is the best they could do."

"What will we do to the spies of Lannister, Your Grace?"

Jon still doesn't like that title, even though he knows that it's his by right. He straightened his back, "Make them bend the knee or die."

Ser Davos hummed, "I expect nothing less from you."

"What did you expect?"

"I thought that perhaps you'd keep them, prisoner, the way you did with the war prisoners," he said, "But you must've known something that made you burn some of them when they didn't bend the knee to you or the Queen. I was shocked, but I saw many had seen justice."

"Well then, I hope they know what I'm truly fighting for."

"I can assure you, they know very well. You will be a great King."

Jon nodded at him, "Thank you."

"Your Grace," Rhaegar's voice called out to them. His horse trots towards him from the front, and he rode by his side, "The coast seems to be clear," he said, "From here onwards, we can go full speed without alerting any Lannister spies. That'll probably take us about 11 days, or less. If we are lucky, we might be able to catch some Lannister spies on the way. But so far, we haven't spot one yet."

"Very well," he said, "We shall make haste then."

"If I may," Lya interjected, "We would like to go on ahead first, to scout ahead."

"We've talked about this."

"I know, but," Rhaegar added, "since we know Arya is among them, there is a chance that she will be sending spies just to play her role so that she won't be suspected."

"Thus, we need to know her position," Lya finished for him, "We'd like to have Ghost to help alert for you all."

"That makes sense," Jon hummed, "Alright, you may go," the twins' faces began to rise, "But," that paused their joys, "You shall go with Lord Gendry and Ser Sandor." He turned to Lord Gendry, who is riding his horse right beside Dany's carriage before he could hear the twins protest, "Lord Gendry," he called.

The Stag Lord immediately smacked his reins and the horse caught up its speed to be by his side, "Yes, Your Grace?"

"Go with Rhaegar, Lyanna, and Ser Sandor here ahead. Report to me any suspicious activities that could jeopardize our march to Dragon Stone." The Stag looked at this twin, he can tell that he is reluctant to do so, he can't blame him since he was suspicious of him, but this is also their chance to tell them who they are to their future uncle. If he's right, there is a chance he will meet his nephew soon. He quickly adds, "if I'm right, there is a chance you might see Arya, and she will need all the help she can get."

This made him forget the reluctance to be with his twins, "Certainly, Your Grace." And at that, he smacked the reins of his horse and trotted ahead with the twins and Ser Sandor. And they all disappeared ahead.

They haven't heard from the twins for days now. From what Jon can guess, they should be arriving at White Harbor in two more days, but he hasn't heard anything from them yet. And that got Dany worried, and this is the first time she's this paranoid. There was nothing she could do but pray that they all will return to her safely, she can't lose them again.

"I'm certain that they'll be just fine, Dany," Jon strokes her belly as they rest in their tent, resting for the next day.

"I know, but I can't help but worry, Jon," She protests, sighing on his shoulder, "And with Lord Gendry with them? Who is to say that they'll argue?"

"If I'm right, I'm certain that they'll tell the truth," he said, "But how they'll tell the truth about them is entirely up to them."

"I don't think your sister knows about her own child as well," Dany said, from what Lya told them, she didn't seem to inform that piece of information yet to their aunt.

"Aye, I don't know how she'll take it as well," he said, "She's not the type of person who would want to settle down and have a family."

"If that's true, then I don't know how she'll take it when she meets her child."

"We'll just have to help her see that having a child is the greatest gift we could ever have," Jon kissed the top of her head, calming her nerves, "Whatever happens, they all must be born."

She tucked her head under his chin, "Whatever happens," she sighed in content, enjoying the warmth Jon is giving her in this cold weather. The thought of war still haunts her sometimes, especially since she can tell that not all the Lords of the North accepts her. Lady Lyanna was able to soften the blow of her being the daughter of the mad, but with Jon's identity revealed, it took them to another level of trust, and that's not what many would agree. To have someone other than a wolf rule Winterfell. "Do you think the North truly accepts us as their ruler?"

"They will," Jon murmured without hesitation, "They will see that our rein is just and unified, not divided as it was."

She nodded, believing in his optimism. He has changed so much since the day they found out she was indeed with child.

Dany's prayer was answered the very next day as their armies were about to march. She was about to climb in, helped by Missandei and Jon when she heard the sound of loud hooves galloping towards them, even Greywind barked.

They turned to see two coming horse riders towards them. From afar, she can see that one of the riders has silver hair, Lyanna! But the rider next to her is not her brother nor Ser Sandor.

Dany couldn't contain her joy as she got off the carriage to greet her. Their horses came to a stop, and they dismounted quickly, "Your Graces," Lyanna greeted them in exhaustion, but there is fear in her tone as well. Her eyes looked like they lacked sleep as the shadows underneath them showed.

The same goes with Lord Gendry, except that he looked more haunted. What happened? What did they witness?

"Goodness, Lya, you sound exhausted," Dany pointed out.

"I know, but we had to hurry," She panted. Greywind took that moment to jump on his hind legs to lick her face, "Woa, hello boy! How are you?" the wolf wagged his tail and continued to give loving licks.

"Where is Rhaegar and Ser Sandor?" Jon asked, seeing that only two of them arrived.

"They await ahead of us, Your Grace," Lord Gendry answered, "Keeping a close eye on them."

"So, there are spies after all?" Dany asked. The fact that Cersei is still on the move increased her concern by ten folds, let alone that she had another to protect in her.

"It's not just that, Your Grace," Lya added, her grey eyes bore into them, "The Golden Company," he said seriously, "They are here."

Winterfell

Brandon isn't sure what he is anymore. He had seen what he had become, and what he had done to the Kingdom. In the past, he was grateful to have such powers, to be able to fly and see the past and the future.

He sat in front of the Godswood tree where his father used to come around to seek council with the gods. Now, he used it to clear his mind and become the eyes of Westeros. That was when he was proud to be the Three-eyed Raven.

But now, he's not certain about himself any longer. Because of this, he had driven Meera away. He had hurt the person who had protected him all this time, and he drew her away.

Oh, Meera. Will you ever forgive me?

What can he be if he doesn't have the power of the Three-eyed Raven that helped his journey and to survive? His sister will be the Lady of Winterfell, and what can he be? How can he contribute to the cause without becoming a monster?

Suddenly, something came to him. He could feel the pull to be in another realm than reality, and it's stronger than usual. And in an instant, his eyes turned white, and his consciousness faded.

He woke up with a gasp, shocked to be pulled by force, and found himself in the same place. Except that there's no snow at all, just lush green grass and the trees blossomed to life, making the whole place peaceful as if the Long Night never happened. The first sign of spring.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" a female voice said, making Bran turn around, "I used to stay here as well if I don't feel like myself."

And came face to face with a beautiful young woman, who looks about his age or older. She has long raven hair and wears a bright blue dress, her accent told him that she's of the north. The young Stark felt like he knows her, but it's at the tip of his tongue, "You're…"

"My, look at you, my nephew," she skipped closer to him, holding his shoulder, "If anything, I would've mistaken you for my own brother, Brandon. He has your sharp jaws, but you have Catelyn's side as well."

Bran's eyes widened, "Aunt Lyanna?"

The former lady of Winterfell smiled, "Hello, Bran."

He staggered back, shocked to be able to interact with her. He had seen her in visions, but not like this, "Wha- Why are you here? How are you here?"

"You called for me, my dear," she walked towards the tree, stroking it, "I've been watching you all for quite a while. All this time actually."

"Oh….I see," Bran murmured, he remembered people called his aunt the blue winter rose, and he can see why now. She truly is beautiful, "But I didn't call for you."

"You did," she turned to face him with a warm smile, "You were calling for help, don't bother denying it, my boy."

"I… yes, I suppose," he confessed, scratching his head in embarrassment. He did was indirectly seeking answers, and it seems that it's something that no one could help him understand nor anyone could understand the situation he's in at the moment.

She walked towards him, "You have a wonderful gift, my dear nephew. A gift that no wolves has ever obtained."

"But I was mad because of this power, Aunt Lyanna," he protested, "And at times when I use them, I don't feel like myself. I feel like…like…." A monster, he wanted to continue.

"No, you are not," Aunt Lyanna brought his hands to hers, "You were just confused. Sure, you did find a way to use it, but to control it? That's another matter entirely."

"I know how to control it," he protested, what does she know about the power of the Three-Eyed Raven? "I used it to protect us from danger, I saw your past, and…"

"Aye, aye, you knew how to use it," she scoffed, "But at what cost?"

"What?" he was dumbstruck.

"The more you were using this power, this knowledge, the more you were losing yourself. That was what you were trying to tell me, am I right?"

"I…." he trailed off, unable to answer. He sat down on where his father used to sit all those years ago, feeling defeated, "Ever since I lost the ability to walk, all I ever wanted is to be useful," he confessed to his aunt, she joined beside him, looking at him, "And when I first learned about these senses, I thought that perhaps, I could make a difference. That I could finally be useful even though I can never be a warrior like Robb or Jon," Bran felt like a little boy, reliving the moment he felt useless as a child who can't walk, "But after I saw what I've become…..I ….."

"You were afraid, and you don't know what you can do now," Aunt Lya finished for him.

"Yes," he murmured, but not without turning to her, "But how did you figure it out?"

She smiled, "I was just like you when I realized that I won't be like other ladies of Westeros," she told him, making him interested to keep listening to her, "I thought that, since I do not think that I will attract any husbands because I like to fight, I should be a warrior. But warrior ladies aren't much appreciated in the North, even though I kept bringing up Visenya Targaryen's history, but they too did not like the Dragon family. So, I was lost and alone, afraid as well. Until Benjen convinced me that perhaps I can convince the world by my actions and prove to the world that woman can fight too."

"So, did you fight someone?"

"Aye, I did," she smiled mischievously, "Three knights in fact, but I didn't prove it to the world. I only attracted unwanted attention when I joust during the tourney. And I never did it again."

"Oh, whom did you fight?"

"The knights of House Haigh, Blount, and Frey," she told him.

Wait a minute, that sounds familiar. Meera told this to him before, "Wait, that's the Knight of the Laughing Tree, right?"

"It is," she hummed, her eyelids are half-closed, still wanting him to figure it out for himself.

And it finally clicked to him, "You're the Knight of the Laughing Tree? That Mystery Knight?"

She giggled, "I'm afraid so, and I did feel good for doing that."

"What… why? How?" he rose up in shock, "You could've been killed, someone could've reported you to Aerys!"

"Oh, someone did find me," she corrected him, "But he only fell in love with me, and we married."

Bran blinked in shock, understanding where this was going, "Prince Rhaegar found you?"

"Aye, he did. Not really ladylike, but he loves me for who I was, and that's why I agreed to marry him."

So, it all made sense now. Why this knight seems to just come out of nowhere after bullying Lord Reed, how his term is not about money. He couldn't help but laugh at this revelation, until now, no one knew who this knight was but him. He sat down next to her again, "I think I now know where Jon gets his courage."

"I can say the same, but I think he got some of those from his father as well," she commented, looking ahead, there's a loving soft tone from her, he wondered if she had ever shown this part of her to anyone. She sighed, "My dear Jon, always trying to make up to anyone even if it isn't his fault."

"I suppose that's what made him courageous like you," he praised, remembering the times Jon was with them. There was never a time when Jon did something stupid yet brave at the same time, and that's what made him admire his brother, even if he turns out to be his cousin. He only wished that he was treated better in the past, "Aunt Lyanna, I'm sorry about how Jon was treated in the past…."

"It's alright, it's not your fault," she said, "I too wish things could've been different, I felt like I'm giving him so much burden, leaving him alone without knowing whom his real parents were."

"But he knows now."

"Aye, he did," she turned to meet his eyes, her hand slinked to his shoulder, giving him a tight grip, "And it's all thanks to you. If it weren't for your new senses, you can never uncover the truth. And no one would accept Daenerys as their Queen."

He nodded, "thank you," but he was still reluctant and skeptical about his senses.

And his aunt picked it up, "Bran, do you know why my husband didn't turn mad the way his father did?" the young Stark shook his head, "It's because he remembered whom he was fighting for," she said.

"What do you mean?"

"He never wanted to be King, let alone be 'powerful'. He's the most humble person I've ever known," she said in content, "and even though his father was mad, that didn't influence him to be like him. He wanted to have peace with his family, free to be able to do what he wishes and interact with people without them referring to him as King."

"I don't understand," Bran furrowed his brows, trying to wreck his brain.

"He was the happiest with this family, Bran," she said, "He was caring to his mother, he cared for his people and his wife and children, Elia, Aegon and Rhaenys. He loved them so much that he didn't want his father's madness to influence them, he wanted to protect them from him, the same way he did to me." Bran was still not getting it, to which Aunt Lyanna could only giggle, "It's his love for us, Bran. Love. Revenge may have brought more followers, but it's not a lasting order and it will fall. But love, it helps one to think and act for themselves," she then holds his hands tightly, "love binds our order together. Love of people, of cultures, of the world. Fight to preserve that which inspires hope, and you will win back your people, just as my Rhaegar did and what we Starks do. Isn't that what it means to be a pack, my nephew?"

Bran felt like another part of him is unlocked, a sort of understanding about this. "The pack survives."

She nodded, "The pack survives. Remember who you are, Bran. Protect the pack, protect the family. You may be a Three-eyed Raven, but you are still a wolf, a wolf with wings. Something we've never had before. And that makes you, you."

He couldn't help but smile at her praise, she really knows how to make him feel better, "I wish you were here to be with us all."

"I too wish of that, but it's not your time yet. And you have to help my son fight the Long Night, you have a duty as the wolf that can fly."

"I will, Aunt Lyanna," he smiled.

His aunt couldn't help but kiss the top of his head, "Your father is so proud of you."

He looked around, "Can I meet him?"

"Not yet," she said, "you were losing yourself in sadness, and now you are in the realm between life and death. I had to come here to give you a piece of my mind the way your father could do terribly," she japed, making them both laugh, "But if you stay here longer, you'll lose yourself."

"I see," his face fell, nearly sad, "Will we meet again? With my father?"

Aunt Lyanna strokes his cheek, the way his mother used to do to him, "You will one day, but not now. I can only tell you that he is eager to meet you too. But it's not the time yet. You have a duty as a Lord, and as the wolf that can fly," she stared hard at him as if begging, "Do this for me, for us all. Can you promise me?"

"I will," he said with determination and confidence this time.

"There's a good lad," she strokes his hair lovingly, and kissed his cheek, "I love you very much, my nephew."

And he woke up alone in the Godswood again. Snow is still blanketing the area, but it's fading soon. The light from the sun beaming to the tree, to the spot where he used to sit with his late aunt.

He couldn't help but smile, a small tear slipping from his eyes, "I love you too, Aunt Lyanna."

Oh shoot, the Golden Company is coming!

And Brand got to meet his aunt!

I really wanted to put Ned in there, but I felt Lyanna was more appropriate for Bran. I really enjoyed writing about aunt and nephew, in a familial way of course.

But let me know what you think! Stay safe everyone!

Claire