Dany had already been lying awake for some time when she felt Jon stir beside her, and she closed her eyes and pretended she was still asleep even as she felt the roughness of his beard brush against her cheek.

His gentle whispers bid her to wake, and though his words began to put her at ease, a heaviness settled back over her heart. They had planned to visit the dragons early that morning before going out riding with Arya and Robb, but Dreamfyre's recent defiant behavior left her feeling unsettled.

It had been several days since he'd lashed out at her but he was still acting strangely, avoiding her motherly affection. Rhaegal had been just as attentive to Jon as he'd always been which Dany found comforting and aggravating all at once.

"Could you go to them without me today? I'm not feeling well."

"Are you alright? Should I send for the maester?"

"No, no. I'll be fine. " she assured him, keeping her eyes closed.

He stilled above her as if he were deciding whether or not he should protest. "Alright," he conceded. "I'll be back soon."

She sat up in bed the moment she heard the door shut and looked around the dark and drafty room. Their bed chamber was so immense and the ceiling so high that she felt small and out of place. There was an eerie feeling to the castle and she often felt as though there were hateful eyes upon her, eyes that blamed her for what her ancestors did to the castle and its inhabitants.

Her mind went to bleak and melancholy places while her hand maiden helped her to dress and brushed through her hair. She was standing before the fire cracking in the hearth, twirling her mother's ring on her finger, when Jon returned, the cold morning air still clinging to his clothes.

"I cannot wait until we can leave this place," she told him.

"Aye. Luckily, Robb and the rest of the northerners are anxious to be home. He'll exchange Jamie for Sansa and then we'll be on our way."

His Northern burr and very presence was a comfort she craved and she leaned into him for more.

Jon gave her a wary glance. "What's wrong?"

"It's nothing."

"You're worrying about the dragons again. Dany, it will be alright."

"It is easy for you to make light of it, " she responded, frustrated with the unshed tears that filled her eyes. "Rhaegal didn't lash out at you."

Jon sighed. "He was better yesterday, was he not?"

"Better? He would barely come near me."

"He was calm."

Dany scoffed.

"Perhaps it's normal for them as they get older."

Dany gave him a pointed look. "How can you know that?"

"I don't, but it doesn't matter, " he replied curtly.

Dany felt her emotions rise. "How can you say it doesn't matter? Where will we be without them?"

Jon took a deep breath before taking her hand. "Dany, all I know is that the only dragons that matter are you and the little one you have growing inside."

Dany blinked her eyes to fight back tears. "Jon, without the dragons, we have nothing."

"We left Pentos with naught but stone eggs. What's changed now?"

Dany sniffled and looked down at her growing belly. "Everything has changed. I don't want our child to grow up the way I did. Not knowing from where their next meal will come or where they will sleep… always at the mercy of others."

Jon tilted her chin up gently. "I told you when we were on that ship that I would take care of you… and I will. I am not Viserys and you are not a little girl anymore."

Dany looked away, her chest growing warm with shame. "For all his faults, Viserys did try his best to take care of me… for a time."

"Look at me, " he commanded her, and there was determination set in his eyes as she met his gaze again. "My best will be better, and we'll do it together."

A warm tear rolled down her cheek as she felt him wrap her in a warm embrace, and while their future was still filled with so much uncertainty, she did feel calm.


The sun was shining off the roof of the stables, new beams standing out beside those still charred with smoke and fire as repairs were being made. Arya had been insisting for days they go out riding to a forest nearby where she and her friends had been hiding before they had been taken by the Mountain's men.

He was open to any distraction today, his mind lately consumed with how he would take care of his growing family.

He could smell hay and manure as they approached and then they could hear shouting coming from inside. Jon and Dany exchanged confused looks before the guards stood aside and let them pass through.

Inside they found Robb and Arya standing between the stalls of horses, clearly engaged in an argument. It was almost a welcome sight, reminding him of Winterfell, and growing up before everything changed.

Arya's hands were balled up in fists at her side, and she was looking up at Robb red faced while he returned her glare with a look of warning.

Robb wrenched a scroll out of Arya's hand. "Don't you dare go through my letters!"

"I am not marrying a Frey!," she told him defiantly. "I'm not marrying anyone!"

Arya ran towards Jon when she caught a glimpse of him, stopping right in front of him. "Jon, Robb has promised me to a Frey. Did you know?"

Jon felt his heart sink with guilt. "Arya, a deal had to be made with Lord Frey in order to cross the Twins."

Arya's lips formed a thin line and her nostrils flared. "What in seven hells does that have to do with me?"

"Arya, " Robb spoke firmly, "like it or not you're a Lady and not only am I King in the North but I'm the head of our family and you'll do what I say."

Arya stared daggers at him. "You sound like Septa Mordane!"

Jon bit the inside of his cheek to keep from laughing while Dany simply looked confused.

Robb was pinching the bridge of his nose, doing his best to emulate their father's patience when Arya rounded on him. "I won't do it. You can write to Lord Frey and tell him. I'll never agree to it."

Robb crossed his arms. "Do you think I'd curse one of my loyal bannerman by giving them a wild bride like you?"

Arya's eyes lit up with hope. "You'll break it then?"

Robb gave her an unreadable expression. "I was already planning on it. We're in a much different position than when we set out."

Arya took his meaning and instantly wrapped him in a tight hug.

Jon could see the hint of a smile in Robb's expression but he kept his tone stern. "If you go through my things again, I'll marry you off for sure."

When he looked down at Dany, he saw her watching Robb and Arya with a woeful expression, seemingly lost in thought. He felt a warm wave of sorrow wash over him as he remembered how much differently things had gone for Dany when she had wanted to end her own marriage betrothal.

He took her hand, and squeezed it gently. The gesture seemed to pull her from her trance and she squeezed his hand back, showing him a weak smile.

"I'm alright, " she assured him, but he wasn't entirely convinced.


The sun was high in the sky by the time they reached the forest Arya had been insistent on finding. Theon rode with them as well as a number of northern guards riding in the rear.

The forest canopy was so thick with leaves that little of the sun's warmth was breaking through and Dany was grateful for the warmth of the beast beneath her.

She couldn't help but smile when she was around Arya. There was something about the wild girl that made her feel free, the way she felt with the Mormont sisters. To say the girl bucked tradition would be an understatement and being near her made Dany feel more confident that she could do the same.

Arya had taken the lead, her eyes serious and ever searching, for what she had not shared. Her brothers had been more than willing to accommodate her wishes, eager for a reason to leave the dreary keep, but now they seemed to be growing impatient with their little sister.

Robb pulled ahead to ride next to her, bidding her to stop and signaling the others to do the same. "Arya, what are we doing out here?"

"Looking for something, " she replied, not taking her eyes off the forest around her.

"Looking for what?" Theon sneered. "Something you lost in the woods before you were taken to Harrenhal?"

"What is it you're looking for?" Jon asked patiently. "Tell us at least so we can at least try to help."

Arya sighed impatiently and looked at her brother. "A girl."

Her admission took Dany by surprise. "A girl?"

"Yes, " she responded curtly. "A little girl. Younger than Rickon. She got away when we were taken."

"Arya, " Robb spoke solemnly. "She'd never have survived out here on her own."

Arya remained steadfast. "You don't know that."

"Not all little girls are like you, Arya," Jon told her.

Suddenly Dany heard movement ahead of them, and a chill ran down her spine. "Someone's out there."

In an instant, Robb, and Jon and moved ahead of them, along with the other guards, as out of the forest emerged a beautiful woman on horseback. She wore a red gown and a long red cloak, and appeared to be escorted by a group of hardened men. Dany could feel something strange and powerful about the woman and she noticed beneath her cloak was long red hair and around her long pale neck a ruby necklace.

"That's close enough, " Robb commanded, as Jon drew closer to her.

The Red Woman smiled. "We come as friends."

"Who are you?," Dany asked, and her eyes went wide as the woman began to speak in High Valyrian.

"Only a servant of the Lord of Light, Daenerys Stormborn, Mother of Dragons."

Shocked that the woman knew her name, Dany's heart started to pound.

Robb eyed her suspiciously. "You're Stannis Baratheon's red priestess, aren't you?"

The woman nodded politely. "I'm here on my King's business."

Dany felt her insides prickle. "I should think the Lord of Light would side with the Targaryens. Dragons are fire made flesh after all."

Her throat went dry when the Red Woman looked at her again. "My Lady Targaryen, a dynasty runs through your veins, but My King will sit on the iron throne. Join our cause and he will restore to you your ancestral home of Dragonstone."

Jon sat up straighter in his saddle. "Your King cannot give us something that never belonged to him in the first place."

A sly smile played on the Red Woman's lips when she turned her attention to Jon. "Lord Snow. Or do you go by a different name now? I see a fire in you, and in that fire, I can hear people screaming. Perhaps the Lord of Light has plans for you as well."

"What are you doing here?, " Robb interjected. "Does your king have a message for me?"

"I am looking for a boy called Gendry, " she told them plainly, "and the lord of light sends me here to find him. King Stannis offers a great deal of gold in return."

Arya gasped. "What business do you have with him?"

"What is it you want with him?," Robb asked.

"It has nothing to do with what I want, " she told him simply. "R'hollor wishes for him to fulfill his destiny."

Arya shook her head. "Don't let her take him, Robb. I don't trust her."

"Keep your gold, priestess, " Robb told her. "Whoever he is, the boy is in my camp now and under my protection. If Lord Stannis wishes to discuss the issue further, he can send me a raven before you make such a long journey again."

The Red Woman's expression was unchanged. "Very well." She turned to Jon and Dany, holding each of their gazes in turn. "I have seen your dragons in the flames, flying ahead of my king into battle. We will meet again."

Dany fought an urge to call after her as the woman and her men headed back the same way they had come. "I would have liked to know more about what it is she saw in the flames."

"I wouldn't, " Jon told her flatly. "What faith can we put in the words of a witch?"

"We've brought dragons back to the world and you've seen a dead man walk… who's to say what's real?"

Theon smirked. "I wouldn't have minded having her around longer."

Arya glared at him. "Why would you want that woman around? I don't like her at all."

"I think the men here feel differently," Theon snickered.

"Quiet!, " Arya rasped out before climbing down from her horse.

As Arya crept toward the dark green brush, Dany found herself dismounting to join her. Crouched beside her, Dany peered into the foliage, trying to see what Arya saw.

Arya turned around sharply to wave away Jon and Robb as they approached, stopping them in their tracks, before she went in deeper.

Dany held her breath as she watched Arya's careful movements and tried to discern her gentle whispers. She couldn't make out what type of creature the Stark girl held in her arms and she gasped when she realized it was a little girl. Hair disheveled and matted, her skin was caked in what must have been weeks and weeks of dirt. The only thing that appeared clean on the small child were the whites of her eyes.

The little thing clung to Arya tightly while looking at Dany with a wary curiosity that made her heart clench. Dany began undoing her cloak to wrap it around the child when Jon put a hand on her shoulder, and offered his own.

"How could she survive out here alone?, " Jon wondered aloud.

"She's strong, " Arya replied.

"What's her name?, " Dany asked, reaching out cautiously like she would an animal, and caressing her dirt stained cheek.

Arya shrugged guiltily. "We found her in a village that had been destroyed by the Mountain. She doesn't talk so we just called her Weasel."

Dany felt her eyes sting with tears at the thought of a child alone in the world without even a name. She held out her arms to the girl and was surprised to find how light she was. "Let's get her to the castle."


Weeks had passed since that day in the forest but Jon couldn't shake the memory of the red priestess and her haunting words. I see a fire in you. He'd spent his days training with Robb and spending time with his wife and little sister, and even in the midst of war and within a cursed castle, he'd felt more peaceful and content than he ever had.

Jon felt a pang of longing in his heart as the sharp pine scent of sentinels filled the air around them, but nothing could dampen his mood for long this morning. Dany was glowing with happiness as they strolled beside the clear waters of a bubbling stream. The soft light of morning dancing peacefully across the surface as they walked along the path in the godswood.

When they had visited their scaly children after breaking their fast, Dreamfyre had taken more kindly to Dany then he had in weeks, finally letting her pet his snout without screeching or wrenching away. Jon hadn't seen her smile that brightly since before he'd been taken to Harrenhal, and the feeling had been contagious.

They'd come to know the path to the heart tree in the past fortnight, both eager to spend as little time possible within the keep. The leaves on the oaks remained a deep green and he wondered how much time they would have until they began to turn. Ghost strolled along on Dany's other side and Arya walked ahead with the girl, clean now but no less feral. She was a strange little thing who never spoke and she constantly had to be stopped from eating slugs and other insects she sought in the dirt.

"No, Alys!, " he heard Arya cry as she dragged the girl away just as she was inspecting the underside of a rock.

Alys, they had started calling her, deciding Weasel would no longer do.

"We don't have to do that anymore, " Arya scolded her.

His little sister's words made him wince, thinking of how she had been without him, fighting to survive and foraging for slugs to fill her belly.

Dany let go of his arm to dart ahead to help, scooping the girl up into his arms. Watching them, the two most important people in his life, he felt more determined than ever that he would make sure they were taken care of and protected from harm.

Dany had taken to the little orphan girl, holding Alys at meals, trying to teach her how to behave properly, though she might have had more luck teaching a wild boar table manners. Maester Tothmure told them she might never learn to speak and may never recover from all she had suffered.

They were before the heart tree of Harrenhal, in the presence of its wicked gaze with it's twisted mouth and flaring eyes. The tree bore thirteen deep marks, he'd counted them many times now. Further evidence of the destruction his ancestors had done to the great keep.

Dany stood out in contrast as she did against all dark and unpleasant things, and Jon smiled as he watched Alys look up at her with big brown eyes, her hands reaching for Dany's free flowing silver hair. She looked so at ease with a child in her arms and it made him grow warm to think of her caring for a child of their own. He never would have dreamed a child of his could have a mother as loving and warm as her.

"You're starring, Jon Snow, " she told him with a demure smile.

His heart fluttered a little to see the morning light in her hair and her rosy cheeks. "Am I?"

Arya groaned and rolled her eyes. "You're always staring. It's disgusting."

He was about to tell his sister to shut it when two figures appeared down the path. Alys squirmed from Dany's arms and made for the brush, spooked by their visitors. Arya muttered something under her breath and ran after her.

"Ser Barristan!, " Dany gasped, taking Jon's arm again.

The knight was coming toward them with a tall man dressed in rich garments.

"My King and Queen, " Ser Barristan greeted them with a low bow. "I'm glad to find you both safe and well."

Jon felt a mix of relief and irritation. "We're happy to see you have returned, Ser Barristan. I looked for you at my wife's side when I escaped Harrenhal."

"I would have remained at my Queen's side, but she ordered me to go." Ser Barristan gestured to the man at his side. "May I present Prince Oberyn Martell."

Dany smiled brightly. "Prince Oberyn, I am delighted that you would travel all this way."

Oberyn regarded her warmly. "Princess Daenerys, I've heard rumors of your beauty. You are as fair as your mother."

The look he gave Jon was colder. "Prince Jon, is it? You bear a striking resemblance to your father." Jon felt his heart sink as Prince Oberyn went on, and the smile fell from Dany's face.

"I met him many years ago at the capitol for his wedding to my sister, Elia.

"Elia loved him. She bore his children, swaddled them, rocked them, fed them at her own breast… and then beautiful, noble Rhaegar, the last dragon… left her for another woman. Your mother.

"As you know, that started a war that left my niece and nephew butchered. Carved up and wrapped in Lannister garb… and my sister, raped and murdered by the Mountain."

Jon chose his words carefully, though he knew nothing he could say would heal wounds so old and deep. "The Lannisters committed terrible crimes against both of our families, and I cannot defend my father's actions. On behalf of our house, I apologize for the disgrace my father brought to your family."

Dany managed to maintain an air of confidence. "My husband and I have a gift for you, one already on its way to Sunspear. The body of Ser Gregor Clegane, the murderer of Princess Elia and my husband's own brother and sister, Aegon and Rhaenys."

Oberyn furrowed his brow. "Then I'm sorry to hear it. Vengeance is not a gift that can be given. A man of Dorne should have killed him. I wanted to hear his confession before he died."

Not even Dany could hide the look of dismay as it took over her features, but she forced a smile. "You must be tired from your Journey, Prince Oberyn. Ser Barristan will see that you find rest and refreshment. We'll speak soon."

She took his hand as they watched them go and he squeezed hers for reassurance. When they were out of earshot, Dany looked up at him with wide eyes. "He is not pleased we killed the Mountain."

"It isn't as though we had a choice in the matter."

"Of course, I just had hoped it would go differently."

"I did too. We'll take him to see the dragons this evening."

Arya emerged from the trees with Alys by the hand looking as worn as any mother. "She wouldn't come out until they were gone."

Dany patted the girl's head. "She's wary of strangers."

Clever thing, Jon mused. "We'd better start back if we're going to meet Robb."


Dany rushed to keep up with Robb and Jon as they advanced down a long corridor, while Ser Barristan and the direwolves haunted their steps. They'd run into both Robb and the knight as they were making their way to the great hall where Robb planned to hold court. She wasn't quite sure what was going on but Robb and Jon were both seething about a man named Little Finger who'd just arrived unexpectedly, requesting an audience with the King in the North.

Robb's hands were balled into fists at his side. "That man has some nerve coming into my camp."

"Who is he?," Dany asked.

Jon scowled. "Lord Peter Baelish, Master of the coin in King's Landing. He betrayed our father to the Lannisters."

"And now he dares to request an audience with me?," Robb said with a grimace.

No one else said a word as they marched into the great hall, taking their seats next to Robb who sat at the center of the head table. Ghost sat up alert at her side the same way Grey Wind did for Robb.

"Send him in, " Robb demanded as soon as he'd settled into his seat.

A short and slender man with a dark pointed beard and streaks of gray running through his hair strode in before them. He wore a small smile but Dany could feel that much was concealed behind it. She felt Jon grow rigid next to her, his eyes boring down on Lord Baelish.

Robb looked down on the man with hatred. "How dare you stand in my presence, Little Finger."

Lord Baelish held up his hands. "You may have heard false reports."

Jon leaned forward. "False reports? What do you think, Ser Barristan?"

Ser Barristan stepped forward from his place by the door. "This man, Peter Baelish, did betray Ned Stark to the Lannisters."

Grey Wind leapt down from his master's side and calmly swept across the room to stand before Lord Baelish, and the mocking smile slid from his face.

Robb spoke with a deadly calm. "Why shouldn't I kill you where you stand?"

Lord Baelish blew out a breath. "Because we can help each other."

"What help can you offer me?," Robb asked, beginning to look bored.

"A marriage alliance, " he offered, never taking his eyes off the direwolf.

"I don't need help from you."

"Why? Because you've already sent an emissary south? Do you imagine you have someone who can match wits with Lady Olenna? Do you know anything about the Tyrells?"

Robb leaned in. "Say what you've come to say, Lord Baelish."

"You haven't won this war, not by far. Yes, you have Tywin and Jamie but you don't have their gold mines, you don't have the capitol. What of your food reserves with so many northern men at war? The food reserves of the Reach are rich and, as your family is so fond of saying, winter is coming.

"If the Tyrells side with the Lannisters, they will defeat Stannis without a doubt and mark my words, they will turn their sights on you then."

Robb narrowed his eyes. "You come to me with honeyed words and expect me to believe the words of a low born traitor?"

Dany squeezed Jon's hand, and he leaned down as she whispered in his ear. "I know you don't like it, but we may need his help."

Jon looked at her incredulously, but she persisted. "You have every right to despise this man but if we turn away everyone who has betrayed us, we'll never have any allies at all."

Jon practically growled but he turned toward Robb all the same, quietly sharing Dany's thoughts with him. When Jon was done Robb nodded and glared back at Lord Baelish, who continued to wait patiently under Grey Wind's watchful yellow eyes. "Assuming you could secure such an alliance, what do you want in return?"

The smile returned to Lord Baelish's face. "I only wish that we put the past behind us, we are to be family after all."

"What do you mean?"

"I am to marry your aunt, Lysa."

Robb and Jon exchanged confused looks.

"If things were different Lord Baelish, if I didn't have to worry about defending my home and my family, I would kill you myself. Secure me a marriage alliance with Margery Tyrell. Do that, and we'll speak more about whether or not we can put the past behind us."

When the last word had left Robb's lips, Grey Wind rose lazily and returned to his master's side. Lord Peter Baelish bowed low before turning and leaving the hall.

When he was gone, Robb slammed his fist on the table. "By the gods, I hate that man." Rubbing his temple, he called out. "Send in the next one!"

A humble man in homespun garments walked in timidly, looking at all three with wide eyes as he took slow and wary steps. His voice trembled when he spoke. "Your Grace."

Robb looked at him gently. "How may I help you?"

"A... dragon... Your Grace. A... dragon burned my flock, ...left nothing but ash and blackened bones. My family… we cannot survive without them."

Dany's throat went dry. "What did the dragon look like?"

The sheep herder looked down. "Black, a winged shadow."

"Of course, " Robb sighed, looking older than his years. "You will be compensated for your loss."

When they were alone again, Robb turned to Jon. "You had better find a way to control them."


Jon could see that Dany was barely managing to keep her composure as they left the hall and made for their chambers. He wasn't sure if it was her pregnancy or the many stressors they were facing, but Dany was often dissolving into tears when they were alone.

As soon as the door was closed she began to pace. "Dreamfyre burned up that man's flock, " she said quietly, her voice hitching. "I know it was him."

Jon kept his tone even as he watched her. "It could have been any of them."

Her hair was pulled back from her face with a braid, and he watched her eyes grow red with tears. "No, they follow him."

"Dany, it's only a flock of sheep."

"It's my fault, " she said, wringing her hands. "He's bonded to me."

Unable to watch her wallow in her misery any longer, he stepped in her path and pulled her close to him. "Stop this. Whatever it is you think you are going through alone, you're not. I'm still here."

Her cry was muffled against his shoulder, and he held her until she was done. Her voice was weak when she spoke again. "I suppose you're right. It was only sheep."


Afternoon was upon them quickly and Ser Barristan found them for the midday meal. He had other interesting news to impart from his time in Dorne. He told them that during his stay in Sunspear, a little bird had found him and relayed a message from the capitol. The little bird told them they had a friend in King's Landing and that he would begin gathering support among the houses once loyal to the Targaryens.

"Lord Varys, " Dany surmised.

"I have no doubt, " Ser Barristan replied. "Though to the extent you can trust him is questionable."

What this could mean, Jon was unsure, but the last time Lord Varys sent a little bird to him with a message, his life changed rather dramatically.

When evening began to fall, Jon and Dany took Prince Oberyn to see the dragons for himself, in hopes that it could positively influence Dorne's support. They rode out together along with Ser Barristan to the place they usually nested at night and found them sunning on a rocky hill. Dreamfyre appeared to be tearing flesh of a carcass before him. Hopefully only a farmer's sheep.

Prince Oberyn's face lit up when he saw them. "Incredible. They're bigger than I imagined. May we go closer?"

Jon felt his chest swell with pride. "No, Prince Oberyn. They're quite dangerous and can be unpredictable."

Prince Oberyn climbed down from his horse, continuing to stare at the beasts in wonder. "Do you interact with them?"

"Yes, " Dany responded. "The black one is bonded to me and the green one to my husband. Stay here, and I shall show you."

Jon dismounted first to help her down and he stood with Oberyn watching her as she made her way to the base of the hill.

Prince Oberyn gave him a knowing look. "There is nothing in life more glorious than the love of a beautiful woman."

Jon nodded in agreement as they watched Viserion descend to Dany, chirping for her touch. Suddenly he remembered what Maester Aemon told him. "The gods have fashioned us for love."

"Ahh perhaps you are a poet like your father, " Prince Oberyn commented. "You should know I do not judge a son by the sins of his father."

Jon was surprised by the relief he felt from those words. "I'm grateful for that."

"Still, you must know Dorne cannot openly enter into an alliance with you."

Jon flexed his hand at his side. "You 'd rather see the Lannisters remain on the throne?"

"Of course not, but you do not have an army, you do not hold lands. You have three dragons, yes, but none yet big enough. We could yet create an alliance through marriage, but not when the issue has yet to be born. Why should Dorne risk so much?"

Dreamfyre had descended to Dany then and at her command shot an orange flame into the sky, causing Prince Oberyn to laugh aloud and clap at the display.

Jon felt a surge of confidence at the sight. "I'm sure you did not travel all this way for nothing."

"Dorne will remain neutral until such a time that you and your beautiful wife are ready."

It wasn't what they had hoped for but certainly it was better than nothing.

Oberyn stepped closer. "Another thing, I heard that your brother will be seeking his own marriage alliance with House Tyrell."

"Yes, it seems it will be so."

"An incredible match for the King in the North. A woman of renowned beauty and a considerable dowry but, you should know, Lady Olenna is as cunning as she is sharp tongued. Above all, she desires power for her family."

Jon looked to Dany as she made her way back to them wearing a true smile. He could feel that things were going to be changing and he wasn't sure it would all be for the better.


Jon stood on the battlements of the main gate but instead of looking out at the expanse of land before the keep, he was looking back up at the gloomy towers. The dragons flew round the keep tonight, circling to and fro around those towers, flying across the great and yellow moon.

He heard Ser Barristan's steps as he approached.

"Your Grace, you sent for me."

Jon kept his eyes on the dragons, unsure what he would say. "Ghost is with her?"

Ser Barristan confirmed his wolf was with his wife and he came to stand beside Jon.

"Magnificent creatures, " the knight commented. "Of all the things I've seen, I never thought I'd live to see dragons."

"They are magnificent and fierce… but also fragile, and near impossible to control."

"I wonder what they'll think of the North."

"It's cold there for dragons, " Jon mused before turning to face the knight. "Do you think I'm making the right choice, Ser?"

Ser Barristan paused thoughtfully before speaking. "Winterfell is a secure stronghold and if your brother's army fortifies Moat Calin, it would be difficult for your enemies to break through."

Jon had surmised as much but the idea of bringing Dany to a place where he'd suffered under Lady Stark's cruel eye, tormented him. He had to pretend he was strong and confident when he felt weak and unsure. "I've no idea what I'm doing, Ser Barristan. I'd never planned on being anything but a brother of the Night's Watch. I don't know how to be a king, a king without a kingdom no less. I don't know how to tame dragons or even be a husband and father and I've no one to ask. Both my fathers are dead."

"You've not been given an easy path, Your Grace, without the benefit of family to guide you. I cannot give you counsel of fatherhood or dragon taming but for now, travelling beyond the Neck is the safest course for your Queen and dragons until the time is right. You have made it this far using only your instincts with your dragons… I have faith those instincts will continue to serve you."

Jon looked back up at the dragons. "I hope you're right."


Weeks passed by peacefully, and sometimes Dany imagined the cursed keep was growing on her. She'd grown rather fond of Arya Stark and it made her begin to look forward to seeing the North where they had all grown up together. A true family.

However, as she sat with Jon, Robb and Theon in Robb's solar, the feeling in the room was anything but peaceful. Members of the Tyrell household had recently arrived and were now in close discussions with Robb's uncles over the terms of the marriage alliance. Robb had requested their presence, wanting their company while he waited.

"Slow down, Robb, " Jon cautioned from his seat next to Dany. Robb had gotten up to retrieve the pitcher of ale to fill his cup again.

"Quit worrying over him, " Theon interjected, leaning up against the wall with his own drink in hand. "He has cause to celebrate."

Robb drank deeply. "This is terrible. Sitting in here while my uncles negotiate my future."

Theon wore his usual smirk. "I've heard rumors that Margery is the most beautiful girl in all the seven kingdoms."

Dany looked at Theon thoughtfully, unable to understand what Robb saw in him. "I've heard her grandmother is a force to be reckoned with."

"Aye, " Jon added. "Prince Oberyn said to keep any eye on her. Said she has a sharp tongue and even sharper wit."

Theon chuckled. "Of course he said that. There's bad blood between Prince Oberyn and the Tyrells."

"Why?, " Dany asked.

Theon looked delighted that she asked him. "During a tourney, her grandson, Willas Tyrell, was knocked off of his horse by Oberyn. Willas's foot got caught in the stirrup and it was crushed by his horse. He's walked with a cane ever since."

Dany looked into the flames of the hearth. "It seems all the lords and ladies of Westeros have cause to hate each other."

Suddenly there was commotion outside the door and Robb went to answer. Dany watched his mouth fall open in surprise before he was able to rebound with a charming smile.

"Lady Olenna, is it? Please come in."

Jon and Dany stood as a tiny woman with white hair, leaning on a cane stepped inside the solar.

Jon silently offered his chair and she appraised each of them in turn before taking a seat.

"May I offer you something to drink, My Lady?"

"No, " she said flatly. "I won't stay long. I simply needed to see for myself who my granddaughter would be marrying. The mighty Northern King who rides his wolf into battle." She raised an eyebrow. "You look more like a boy to me."

Robb remained unphased and continued to smile politely. "Yes, My Lady, I am young. The Kingslayer said much the same, and this boy has held him captive in a pen for months and now I have his father rotting in a cell too."

The lady scoffed, resting her chin on her hand. "Ah, you think you've won. It would be a shame if I were truly marrying my daughter to a Northern fool. You may have captured the mighty Tywin, but what of his gold mines? What of his grandson who sits upon the Iron Throne? If I were to marry my granddaughter to King Joffrey, Margery would be Queen of the Seven Kingdoms and you my dear, would be terribly outmatched."

Robb took a seat across from her. "Aye, My Lady, you'd have the numbers but they wouldn't do much good with my army beyond the Neck."

"Not against three dragons either," Jon added casually.

Lady Olenna shot a piercing look at Jon. "Let me see, handsome face, insufferable brooding expression, you must be the one they say is Rhaegar's son. The former bastard of Winterfell."

Dany felt her pulse quicken when she looked at her next. "And you can only be Daenerys Targaryen. It has been many years since I've seen silver hair and violet eyes." She gestured to Jon. " I'm sure this one fell all over himself to snatch you from across the Narrow Sea." She patted Dany's hand. "One can only hope the gods have spared you your father's madness."

Dany bit her tongue.

Finally she turned to Theon with an unamused expression. "And who are you?"

For once, Theon looked humbled as he told her his name.

"Ah, the hostage. Best you leave, let the important people speak."

Robb nodded to Theon apologetically and when the door was closed again, she looked back up at Jon.

"I once thought Ned Stark to be rather dull, but he was more cunning than I would have imagined to keep you hidden for so long. Right under King Robert's very nose."

Jon didn't respond but Dany saw him flexing his burned hand, a gesture she saw him doing more and more with each passing day.

Lady Olenna turned her attention back to Robb. "It's highly irregular to conduct business with children. I do wish your mother were here. A boy king would do a deal better if he put down his sword and listened to his mother."

Robb sighed, he's cheeks reddening. "She's in Winterfell, My Lady. My uncles are negotiating the marriage contract."

"Are you blushing? The King in the North who blushes at the words of an old woman? How can you expect to hold onto the Rose of Highgarden?"

Dany felt the need to defend her good brother. "Robb is a formidable warrior who has won many battles, My Lady."

Dany nearly blushed herself under her intense gaze. "Easy for you to say on the arm of a dragon, the would-be-heir to the throne. Tell me, what are House Targaryen's goals? Your family was never known for its passivity."

Jon stepped forward. "When our dragons are grown, we will take back what was stolen from us."

Lady Olenna looked amused by his statement. "With fire and blood? That's if your dragons grow and don't burn you to ash in the process."

The Queen of Thornes stood from her chair and Robb did the same. "My granddaughter, the Queen in the North. Not a prospect I would have imagined, but we shall have to make do."

With that, Lady Olenna left as abruptly as she came.

Robb wore a stunned expression. "My future mother in law, the Queen of Thornes."


The Northern army was lined up once again outside the gates of Harrenhal, this time in defense of the monstrous castle. Archers stood alert along the castle walls and towers underneath a gray, cloud covered sky. The smell of rain was heavy in the air and Robb and Jon exchanged grim looks from atop their horses as the Lannister forces drew near. Ghost and Grey Wind stood tall by their sides, heads coming to height with their horses shoulders.

Jon smiled to himself when he saw the youngest Lannister make his approach alongside another golden haired man, portly and balding, and dressed in crimson plate. Kevan Lannister, Jon assumed. Today was the day that had agreed to meet to exchange their prisoners, finally releasing Jamie and taking another son of Tywin Lannister in his stead.

Jon scanned the lines for Sansa but found only soldiers and golden lion sigils. Dany rode up beside him quietly with Ser Barristan at her side, and she gave him an apologetic look, knowing he did not wish for her to be present. Her condition could no longer be hidden and she smoothed a hand over her growing bump. Arya too waited nervously atop her mount beside Robb, eager to see the sister she had hated for most of her life.

Tyrion wore a pleasant countenance as though he wasn't about to be taken as a Northern hostage. "Robb Stark," the dwarf said curtly before turning to smile at Jon. " Jon Snow, Bastard of Winterfell… or is it Jon Targaryen now? It's almost a pity. You were the only Stark I liked."

Robb gave him a sour look. "You'll have plenty of time to know the Starks better, My Lord."

Tyrion's eyes grew wide when he looked at Daenerys. "My Lady," he greeted her. "I see Lord Snow has done quite well for himself."

"Let's get on with it," Robb interrupted. "I am anxious to see my sister."

"As I am my brother," Tyrion replied.

Kevan Lannister motioned behind him and two servants came forward carrying an item Jon knew well from childhood. He was surprised that his eyes began to sting with tears to see the familar pommel sticking out of a wolf hide sheath as it was given to a Northern soldier. Robb laughed in delight as the great sword was passed to him and he laid it across his lap. Carefully, he slipped the blade out of the sheath enough to reveal its smoky surface.

"This blade will know the godswood at Winterfell again," Robb said to Jon cheerfully.

"Where is Ser Jamie?," Kevan Lannister asked sternly.

"Safe, " Robb replied. "You'll see him as soon as I see my sister is unharmed."

Kevan Lannister motioned to his guards again and Jon watched with bated breath as the lines broke enough to let a group of soldiers pass through. His heart started to pound and he wondered if news of what he had done to Ser Jamie had reached the capitol. What might Joffrey or Cersei have done to her if they knew?

The Lannister soldiers parted to reveal Sansa, her face already red from crying but when she looked up to see Robb before her, her body was racked with sobs. There was a mixture of terror and hope on the young girl's face, but all Jon could do was watch and wait. Complicated relationship or not, his blood boiled to think of Sansa suffering at the hands of the Lannisters for all of this time. Jon knew Robb was affected too and he looked down briefly, clearing this throat before calling for Ser Jamie to be brought out.

Lady Brienne and two other guards brought the one handed man out into the open. The Kingslayer's path took him near Dany, and she called to him. "Farewell, Lion of Lannister. The next time we meet, I shall be raining down fire from above."

Jamie stopped abruptly in his path much to his guards' dismay. "How's your neck, Princess? Looks like it's healing nicely."

"Far better than your hand," she replied simply.

Tyrion glared up at Robb. "I see the famed Stark honor does not extend to its prisoners. Luckily for your sister, the Lannisters treat their high born hostages gently."

"I'll hear from my sister how gently she was treated and that will inform me on your own stay," Robb threatened.

Jon felt awash with shame. "I am the one responsible for the Kingslayer's injury."

The look Tyrion gave him did nothing to reduce his shame, and he suddenly felt like the boy he was when he first arrived at the Wall with Lord Tyrion.

"Take him," Robb said calmly, motioning to Tyrion. "He can join his father tonight."

The air was thick with tension as the exchange was made. Excitement was building in his belly as he scrambled down from his horse along with Robb and Arya, waiting to meet Sansa as she was escorted back to them by Northern guards. Robb ran to her, catching her in his arms as she continued to sob, and she wrapped her arms tightly around him.

After Robb finally put her back on her feet, Jon was stunned when she ran into his arms next. She was trembling like a leaf and stammering that she was sorry. Arya didn't wait her turn, instead hugging her arms around her sister's shoulders. When Sansa let him go, Jon found his face wet with tears, and he quickly tried to wipe them away as Dany joined them.

"Both of your sisters are safe now, " she told him softly.

He could only shake his head in agreement, not trusting he could keep a quiver from his voice.

"And soon," she continued, "you will all see your home again."

"Our home, Dany. My home is your home too."


Nearly a week after their meeting with the Lannisters, they were all gathered in the great hall again waiting on the arrival of Lady Margery. All of the Northern lords and ladies were present and Jon and Dany along with Sansa and Arya sat at the head table with Robb as they waited for the lady to make her appearance.

Floating into the great hall on light and graceful steps came one of the most beautiful young women Dany had ever seen, with thick, silky brown hair and large brown eyes. Not since she left Essos had she seen a dress so elegant nor one that plunged so low.

The room went silent as she curtseyed low. "My King."

Dany watched Robb shift in his seat as he took in the sight of her, and he sat up straighter as he addressed her before the court. "Lady Margery, I hope the road was kind to you."

Margery flashed a demure smile. "I quite enjoyed my travels, Your Grace. I look forward to seeing the wild beauty of the North, if you'll show me."

Robb mirrored Lady Margery's smile. "We are to join our houses through marriage and effectively bring an end to this war. Is this what you want, My Lady?"

"With all my heart, Your Grace," she answered enthusiastically. "Tales of your bravery and honor have not been far from my ears, and I desire nothing more than to be your bride."

Dany shared an amused glance with Jon.

Robb cleared his throat. "Very well, My Lady. The hospitality of my court is yours and we shall make ready to leave for Winterfell."

It was clear that Lady Olenna was behind her granddaughter's words and Dany looked at Robb with pity. She whispered to Jon. "Your brother is taken with her already."

Jon chanced a glance at his brother, "Aye."

Dany sighed. "At least now we can leave."

Jon took her hand under the table. "Are you sure we should? Your time is fast approaching."

Dany shook her head. "I am not giving birth at Harrenhal."


They'd been on the road for a mere couple of days and Dany was already sick of the travelling. Her back burned with pain but she refused to complain as she had been resolute to leave that horrible castle. Having tried her best to stay on horseback to avoid riding in a litter with the Queen of Thornes, she began to resent every bump of the road until they finally stopped at for a short break at midday.

She felt a flood of relief the moment Jon came to help her down from her horse, concern for her plain on his face. "I shall have to ride with the Tyrells after all, " she told him, feeling defeated.

"Perhaps you can ride with someone else?"

"No, they've invited me. I can't very well refuse."

The break was over all too quickly and soon Jon was helping her make her way to the wheeled enclosure she would be trapped in for the next several hours. Her belly had grown bigger than she'd imagined and her steps we're slow and heavy.

"Ah! Lady Targaryen. Finally decided to join the women?"

Dany kept her composure and swallowed her retort that she had been riding with Arya and the Mormonts as she slid onto the seat to sit next to Sansa who looked delighted to see her. Margery smiled at her warmly from her seat next to her grandmother.

"I won't be far if you need me, " Jon assured her as he prepared to depart.

"Don't fuss over her. She'll be far safer in here with us."

Dany felt her heart dip as she watched Jon depart and she looked longingly at the horses waiting for their riders.

Margery reached across the isle and put a hand over Dany's. "How are you feeling?"

The girl's seemingly genuine care surprised Dany, though they had spoken little. "Oh, quite well."

Lady Olenna scoffed. "I doubt that very much. I'm sure you're exhausted and swollen and riding that horse can't have helped any. The aches you'll endure atop that horse would be far worse than the coarse words you fear from me."

Dany forced a smile. "Actually, My Lady, you're right, I am quite tired." Looking out the window, she longed for a quick journey.


Light was barely streaming in through their canvas tent as he watched Dany lay curled on her side, the furs wrapped snugly around her. Her belly had grown so big she needed his help to sit up and she leaned on him more than ever when they walked with their arms linked. She often complained of an aching back and waddled around with her hands pressed behind her. Her mother's ring had to be hung on a chain around her neck, no longer comfortable to twirl around her finger.

She would start the days on horseback, her swollen little hands stubbornly holding the reins, insisting she not be coddled, until midday when she could no longer take it and she would retreat to the litter with Margery and Sansa.

He felt better when she was safe inside the litter and more than once, when they stopped to break camp, he found her sound asleep within, neither Margery or Sansa having the heart to wake her.

Margery and Sansa seemed taken with Dany, and he knew when she was riding with them, she was well looked after. Sansa had been more warm toward Jon in the past weeks than she had been in their entire lives. Whether because she had been so humbled at the capitol or because of his new name, he wasn't sure, but he has heard her refer to him as her brother without insisting on adding half. In truth, he was neither.

At night, Dany tossed and turned, her body growing unbearably warm with each day she swelled more with their child and he found himself forgoing furs entirely.

Another day of riding was facing them and he hoped they'd reach Winterfell as quickly as possible. While he wasn't eager to be near Lady Stark, he did want his wife someplace safe and comfortable.

"Dany, " he whispered, brushing her cheek softly. "I'm sorry but we have to get up, love."

She groaned softly, and her eyelids fluttered open heavily, but she didn't complain as she took Jon's offered hands as he helped her to a seated position.

He rubbed her back while she yawned. "Perhaps you should just ride with Sansa and Margery today."

She rubbed her back, her eyes weary. "Yes, I think I will."

Jon felt relieved, and climbed from their bed to rummage in her trunk for her clothes.

"Aren't you going to call for a maid?, " she asked.

Jon sensed she needed more care today. "No, I'll help you."


He'd helped her dress before they quickly broke their fast and soon he was ushering her toward the carriage while she took reluctant steps. She had been quieter than usual but continued to insist she was alright.

The day dragged on and he closed his eyes in relief when the moss covered towers of Moat Calin came into view for the second time in Jon's life and he smiled inwardly thinking of the first time.

Robb rode up beside him. "A lavish castle we'll be staying in. Won't my intended be pleased?"

Jon chuckled. "Last time I was here, Daenerys and I laid out in the open on bed rolls."

Robb barked out a laugh. "How gallant we men of the north are. Our brides should be so lucky."

"And what do you think of your bride?"

"I must admit I like her far better than I would have imagined but I fear such a refined beauty will be disappointed with life North of the Neck. At least she'll have Daenerys and Sansa to keep her company. How is my good sister faring?"

Jon sighed. "The road is hard on her, though she'll never admit it. I'm anxious to get her to Winterfell."

"We'll be there soon, brother and she will be fine."

A woman's cry interrupted his thoughts, and Jon looked back to see Margery waving to Ser Barristan from outside the window of the carriage. Jon whirled his horse around and darted toward them, and what he saw next had his breath catching in his throat. Ser Barristan ducked inside the little door and when he emerged again, Dany was laying limp in his arms.

Jon jumped from his horse and ran to her. She looked so small and pale as he helped the knight gently lower his wife to the ground.

Lady Olenna, Margery and Sansa climbed from the carriage swiftly, the latter two with looks of worry, Sansa near tears, but Lady Olenna looked on merely with curiosity.

Dany's breath was labored as he cradled her head. He found her hot to the touch and he nearly drew back in alarm. "Dany."

She opened her eyes when he spoke her name but they were glassy and unfocused. "I'm so cold," she stammered.

"She's burning up, " Jon said, fear beginning to pick at him. "Dany, it's alright."

"Get the maester!," he heard Robb call as he came to kneel beside Jon. Robb had ordered Maester Tothmure to travel with them until Dany was safe within the gates of Winterfell.

The old man made his approach quickly and Jon made room for him to kneel beside Dany. He continued to hold her hand while he watched beads of sweat form on her forehead. Her brow was furrowed and she mumbled incoherently. When he could understand her, her words made little sense.

"All I see is snow," she whispered.

Jon cupped her cheek as the maester checked her pulse. "Dany, you'll be alright. The maester is here."

She moaned. "It's all white. Snow and blue eyes."

"What's wrong with her?" Jon asked impatiently, struggling to maintain composure.

"She has a fever. We need to reduce it, " he said simply, ordering for cold water and clothes to be brought to him. "How long has she been this way?"

Margery stepped forward, wringing her hands in front of her. "Not long. We thought she was asleep when she started talking and then we couldn't wake her."

A tent was erected quickly and Maester Tothmure gave Dany an elixir that was supposed to break the fever, but it seemed only to be getting worse, her breathing growing more shallow. They were losing daylight and Jon felt helpless, able to do nothing more but sit at her bedside as she faded rapidly before his eyes.

Ser Barristan and Robb had stayed with him as the hours passed and the mood was growing somber. Ghost laid at the foot of her bed, a silent guardian.

Jon hid his face in his hands as dark, intrusive thoughts filled his mind. What if I lose her? What if we lose the baby? What if I lose them both?

He couldn't go on without them, he wouldn't.

"I have to do something, " he spoke softly, beginning to pace the room.

Robb spoke gently. "Jon-"

A guard interrupted, but Jon couldn't focus on anything but his wife, painfully pale and a sheen of perspiration covering her still lovely face. He had sworn to take care of her and he was failing.

Kneeling at her bedside again, he held her hand, brushing his thumb over her knuckles, wishing she'd wake. He tried to ignore Robb's conversation with the guard but a name was said that piqued his interest. Howland Reed.

Jon's mind turned instantly to the Tower of Joy and the only other man who had known the secret of his birth. Still holding Dany's hand, he looked over his shoulder as Robb told the guard to send him in. Moments later, a plain sort of man of middling height wearing a grey-green cloak stepped inside.

"My King, " the man spoke, bowing his head to Robb. "I'm Howland Reed." Jon felt the hair stand on the back of his neck when the man's eyes locked with his. "Jon Snow, your Queen is sick. My friends can help."

Jon's heart was hammering in his chest as he remained motionless.

Howland nodded toward Dany in bed. "You'll have to carry her. You may bring your knight, but no one else."

Jon sucked in a breath. "My wolf comes too." At Jon's words, Ghost climbed down from the bed and sat at the ready.

Lord Reed gave a curt nod. "Aye, I'll not stop your wolf."

Jon knew at once the man's words were true, and with Robb's help, he quickly wrapped Dany up in a blanket before lifting her into his arms, her body still radiating too much heat.

Without another word, Lord Reed turned on his heel, leaving the way he came and Jon meant to follow wherever he led to save his queen.