She was somewhere between sleep and wakefulness when she became aware of the sound of the bells resounding cheerfully. Her heart was blooming with warmth as she sat up carefully to peer down into the cradle beside their bed. Little Aemon was sleeping soundly as he had been most of the time since his long awaited birth early that morning. He'd taken her breath away twice now by opening his beautiful, violet eyes, and he seemed as lost in her as she was in him.

They were alone in the room now, Jon sleeping as quietly as his son, and she was thankful to have these first moments of just the three of them. If she could, she would shut out the rest of the world so it was only them, convince Dreamfyre to fly them to Old Valyria, never to return. Climbing down from the bed slowly, she moved gingerly, not yet feeling confident on her feet since the delivery. Ever so delicately, she lifted the warm little bundle into her arms, and when she saw he had not stirred she left a tender kiss on his tiny nose.

Jon sat up, hair wild and eyes heavy from sleep, but he crawled toward the edge of the bed and offered his arms. "Let me help you," he said, voice hoarse from the little sleep they'd had.

Cautiously, she handed him their little son, the babe looking even smaller in his arms. Jon managed to provide her his hand as well, helping her back into bed. Once settled against the headboard and nestled against him, Jon put Aemon back in her waiting embrace. Dany leaned her head against Jon's shoulder while he wrapped an arm around her, both losing themselves again in the little being they created.

"He has your hair," Dany remarked, running a gentle finger through the tuft of dark hair on his head. "And your nose."

Jon's face lit up in a grin, she'd seen him smile a lot in the last several hours. "And his mother's gorgeous eyes."

Dany lay a kiss against the scruff of her young husband's cheek before focusing her attention back on Aemon. The depth of the love she felt was unexpected and disarming. It was something she had never felt, different even than what she felt for Jon. It was greater than either of them, greater than anything she'd ever known. Having him in her arms made her feel weak and strong all at once, and she knew there was nothing or no one in the world that she would let harm him.

"They're ringing the bells for him," Jon told her as he brushed a finger against the sleeping babe's cheek. "They'll ring all day just as they did for each of the Stark children."

"Do you hear that, my sweet?" Dany whispered to her son. "Those bells are for you."

Jon kissed her temple. "Thank you, Dany. This is more than I ever dared to hope for, I can never repay you."

She offered him a warm smile. "If you hadn't crossed the Narrow Sea to find me, who knows where I'd be right now or what my life would look like... lost somewhere on the Dothraki Sea." Her breath caught in her throat as Aemon opened his bright eyes, drinking her up. "And there'd be no Little Aemon." The thought terrified her and she held him more closely.

"That was never going to happen," Jon told her, strength returning to his voice. "Even if you hadn't been able to get us out of the manse that night, I would have found a way."

Dany kissed the soft skin of Aemon's forehead. "I know because we are Targaryens and we answer to no gods nor men."

The next days were filled with sleepless nights and days abed, punctuated by the robust cries from Aemon's surprisingly powerful little lungs. Dany had refused a wetnurse, he was too precious a thing to be cared for so intimately by any woman but her. Both she and Jon marvelled at him, this new Targaryen they had brought into the world. His arrival was like the breaking of a curse, a rebellion against a cruel fate, proof that they could make a better world.

Each of the Starks paid visits, Queen Margaery and Sansa gushing over the little baby, while Lady Stark offered polite, if reserved congratulations. Jon had crouched before Ghost to let the wolf meet him while the babe slept. Ghost regarded him silently, but after he sniffed the babe's head, his tail wagged in approval. Dany had been able to bring her son into the world in safetyand calm, surrounded by friends and family. All was peaceful, and all was good.


Jon's chest was heaving as he lowered his blunted blade at Robb's utterance of yield. Jon's muscles felt weak from disuse after having spent so many days confined with his wife and newborn son, and it felt good to be sparring again. Part of him had been relieved when Robb had insisted he rejoin the world for an afternoon in the training yard, but now he was finding himself just as anxious to return to his chambers to be with his little family.

Their audience was sparse, most of the bannermen had retired back to their own homes, and Margaery and Sansa visiting the new babe. The only two present were Greyjoy and his near constant captive companion, Lord Tyrion. Perhaps Theon felt a sort of kinship with the little lord, both effectively prisoners of Winterfell. Lord Tyrion offered a slow clap. "Lord Snow is more ferocious than ever it seems with a wolf pup to protect now."

Jon kept a straight face. "One can never be too careful, what with two lions in the den."

Robb wiped sweat from his brow and motioned to Theon. "Your turn. We can't let this victory go to his head."

"I'm no match for a king," Theon replied with a bored expression. "I'd better be getting this one back to his cell, anyway." Silently, he ushered the Lannister back towards the keep.

Jon found it peculiar for Theon not to rise to a challenge. "Greyjoy is acting strangely," he remarked to Robb.

Robb was unmoved. "I think you're predisposed to find him that way."

"He's spending a lot of time with Tyrion," Jon replied, watching Theon and Tyrion exchange words as they walked further away from the courtyard.

Robb shrugged, setting his sword back on the rack. "Gives him something to do, while you and I are preoccupied with our own matters."

Catelyn Tully Stark came marching towards them from the great keep, and Jon felt himself close up. Despite his best efforts, the sight of her still made him want to fade into the background. She spared Jon a cold glare, as icy as he remembered from when he was a boy, but he no longer had to cower. "Robb! Something terrible has happened!"

"What is it?"

"Those murderous beasts are wreaking havoc again!" She told them, giving Jon another scowl.

Robb groaned. "What is it? Another flock of sheep?"

Lady Stark's lips formed a hard line. "A child. A girl of three from a nearby farm."

Jon stood frozen in shock, before looking back at the great keep where his own family was now. "A girl?" he muttered, feeling nausea bubble in his stomach.

Lady Stark took a step toward her son. "Her father came to Winterfell with the girl's blackened bones."

Jon felt bile rise in his throat.

"The presence of the dragonscan no longer be tolerated," Lady Stark stated haughtily. "How can we tolerate monsters in our midst, allowing them to roam our land, killing children!" Jon felt his chest tighten painfully at her words. She glared at Jon boldly then. "You may not be a bastard but you have a bastard's nature. First, you abandon my son in his greatest time of need, and then you return with beasts who bring us only death and destruction. Haven't you taken enough from my family?"

Robb blew out a breath. "Enough, Mother! Let's get inside. I need a moment to think."

Jon didn't need to think, he needed to act, and dashed off toward the stables.

"Jon! Where are you going?" He heard Robb call, but he ignored him and quickly saddled up a sturdy horse, and rode off to where the dragons nested.

He had no idea what he planned to do, he only knew rage and desperation were coursing through his veins. Daenerys was still recovering from childbirth, their son still fresh and new, barely a week old, everything rested on his shoulders. He would have to do something, anything.

Jumping down from his horse, he left him tied near the treeline before making his way through a well known path to where the dragon's slept. Dreamfyre was resting in their clearing with his brothers, picking at a pile of bones. The fury Jon felt overpowered any fear or trepidation as he marched toward their leader. Rhaegal and Viserion approached Jon eagerly, but he dismissed them, sights set on the black. Dreamfyre only gave him a casual look over his shoulder before returning to his task.

"Others take you!" Jon shouted from the bottom of his lungs at the black scaled beast.

Dreamfyre dropped his bones, and whipped around to face Jon, managing to look affronted.

Jon growled at the dragon. "If I could, I would chain you up in the deepest, darkest cave where you couldn't be a threat to anyone!"

Dreamfyre sat on his haunches and roared so fiercely Jon felt the creature's hot breath blow through his hair. Possessed by rage, Jon found himself bellowing back at the beast, so powerfully it stung his lungs. He felt foolish as the Dreamfyre cocked his head at him, regarding him curiously as though he were wondering if he had lost his senses.

Jon groaned and pinched the bridge of his nose. He was in over his head, without answers, and no one on earth to ask. The dragons were their hope, their salvation and yet they were also threatening the safety and security of his wife and child. He turned on his heel and trekked back to his horse, ignoring the way Rhaegal whined sadly as Jon passed him again, and he rode hard back to the keep.

Disregarding the curious stares and greetings as he rode back through Winterfell's gates, he practically ran to his chambers, taking the steps two at a time, until he was outside their chamber door. He could hear his son crying inside and he paused, mentally preparing to tell his wife what he knew would be devastating news. Entering quietly, there was a sinking feeling in his gut as he found her alone with Aemon, still abed, streaks of tears staining her pale face.

When she saw him, fresh tears spilled from her red eyes, and she rocked Aemon in her arms, trying to comfort him in her distress. He toed off his boots and climbed into their bed. Aemon was red from crying, his little fists balled up, but he began to calm when Jon held him against his chest.

Dany melted into his shoulder, and soon she was shaking with sobs. "A child, Jon, a defenseless child." Her voice was weak and strained. "This is my fault."

"No," he told her gently. A hopeless feeling made him feel heavy while he tried to comfort their son who began to whimper.

Dany wiped her eyes and sat up straight. "Dreamfyre is my dragon. The weight of his actions will always fall on my shoulders." She climbed out of bed, her steps still delicate and unsure. "I must go to him."

His mouth fell open to protest, it was too soon for her to be out, but then he remembered the way Rhaegal and Viserion had clambered to him, begging for his attention. Perhaps, seeing Dany and little Aemon would satisfy Dreamfyre's rebelliousness. He looked down at Aemon, his face beginning to scrunch in protest for being too long away from his mother. "We'll go together."


They rode out together on a single horse, Dany sitting in front of him with baby Aemon wrapped to her chest and cradled in her arms. Dismounting as they reached the treeline, Jon held Aemon closely as he helped Dany down. "Are you sure about this?" he asked her.

"We'll be quick," she told him as her feet touched the ground.

The dragons were where he had left them as they approached the part of the woods they'd claimed as their own. Jon stayed back, holding Aemon protectively, as Dany advanced toward her unruly black dragon.

"Be careful," she heard Jon whisper.

"I do not fear him," she replied, unsure whether she truly believed it.

Rhaegal and Viserion looked at her longingly and she patted and caressed their snouts as she made her way to her largest son, his back to her, sitting several yards away. "Dreamfyre?" she called to him.

He whipped around, and roared at her angrily, his molten eyes alight with fury. She faltered momentarily, stepping back in fear, but she found the strength to press forward. "It's alright, my sweet," she told him, extending a steady hand toward his great maw. He watched her apprehensively, at war with himself. "Dreamfyre, please."

He huffed, but let her pet his snout, his scales offering a comforting warmth. "There, my son. I've missed you." Her eyes welled with tears as she continued to pet his snout. "Would you like to meet your newest brother?"

Jon stopped a couple paces behind her, waiting cautiously.

"He won't hurt us," she assured him, and reluctantly he placed the babe in her arms.

Aemon was fast asleep, unaware he was in the presence of such legendary creatures. Dany kissed his forehead, and turned toward Dreamfyre, who was instantly curious, bringing his snout closer. Then Rhaegal and Viseron crept closer, also interested in the newest Targaryen. "This is your new brother, another future dragon rider. We must all do our best to protect him."

Dreamfyre was as docile as she had seen him since he was a mere hatchling, she carefully placed Aemon back in Jon's arms.

"Dany…"

As if the great beast sensed what she sensed, he lowered a wing to the ground, inviting her up.

Dany's body was buzzing with excitement, her heart racing as she touched his impenetrable scales, and began to climb.

Jon blew out a breath. "Dany, by the gods…"

"It's alright, I'm alright," she assured herself as much as him.

Jon's voice was tight with frustration. "What is it you expect to hold onto?"

Dany's heart was beating wildly, trembling and breathing erratically, she took hold of his horns and suddenly confidence washed over her. Rhaegal and Viserion watched hawkishly, waiting to see what would come next. All of a sudden, Dreamfyre shrieked and began to shake. Caught unaware, Dany lost her seat and rolled down his great body.

"Are you alright?" Jon asked wildly, helping her off the ground with one hand while holding their sleeping babe.

"Yes," she grumbled, brushing dirt off her dress, feeling herself warm with embarrassment.

"You're shaking," Jon said. "We're going back."

"I was so close," she told him, realization dawning on her. "I was on him. If he wouldn't have thrown me…"

"If he wouldn't have thrown you here, he might have thrown you midair." Jon's eyes were wild, and she suddenly felt guilty for frightening him.

"I don't think he'd do that," she assured him.

Jon shook his head. "Why are you rushing this? How many of our ancestors died because they were careless with dragons?"

"Because he killed a child!" she cried, anguish returning to her heart. "What kind of queen lets the weakest among her suffer such a terrible fate? What good are dragons if all they do is harm our people? And because I'm afraid. I'm afraid we're running out of time."

Jon's jaw became a hardline. "Let's get back."

He was silent the whole way back to Winterfell, through the halls and up the steps. She didn't hear him speak until he asked a servant to fetch Maester Luwin. The Maester made sure Dany was alright following her fall and suggested she wait at least a month before engaging in anymore strenuous activities.

Once they were alone, and Aemon was settled in his crib, she asked her brooding husband, "Jon, are you still angry with me?"

He sat at the edge of the bed, and looked at her sadly. "I think we need to reconsider our original plan."

Dany felt tension building in her chest. "What do you mean?"

"You know what I mean, Dany."

"We're back to this again?"

"It's different now, you know it is."

"Because of Aemon?"

He narrowed his eyes. "You really want to bring our son to the Wall? A place with the worst kind of men in the Seven Kingdoms? You still struggle with the cold here, well, there even I feel chilled to the bone. Is that where you want our son to be?"

Her eyes stung with tears. "I want our son to be with his father and his mother." She took his hand. "Where you go, I go."

Jon looked down for a moment at their joined hands before meeting her gaze again. "Not this time."

Dany let go of his hand, fury bubbling in her gut. "Do you think you can stop me?"

Jon's eyes softened. "No, but I won't have to because I know you'll do what's best for Aemon."

She couldn't believe what he was saying, he was going back on his word."You're trying to use our son against me?"

Hurt colored his features. "You know that isn't true, and you know I'm right."

"I know that it will be a mistake," she told him coldly, lying down and turning away from him. Too upset to even look at her husband, she closed her eyes until she drifted to sleep.


Jon had found little rest that night, and was grateful when the sun's pale light shone through the window. He got up and dressed quietly, so as not to wake Dany, though he expected she would ignore him even if he did. He drifted through the halls, down a familiar path until he found himself outside the solar which had once belonged to his surrogate father. He rapt quickly, hoping he'd find Robb inside, and was relieved when his brother bid him enter.

Robb sat behind his desk, bags under his eyes, scrolls strewn about his desk. "You're up early. I barely slept myself. How is Daenerys?"

Jon thought of his wife and the ice he felt radiating from her through the night. "She's doing as well as can be expected."

Robb nodded and looked out the open window. "I'm sorry for the vile things my mother said to you, but she is right, I cannot let your dragons terrorize my people."

Jon felt a pit in his gut. "I know. I'm going to find a way to keep them from hurting the people."

"Aye. That's what you told me when they burned a flock of sheep, and now they've killed a child. My lords made me king and they can unmake me just as easy if I allow dragons to murder their children."

Jon knew it was true. The dragons would be a scourge to the people of the North if he and Dany could not reign them in. "If we cannot learn to control them then we'll take them away."

"I hope it does not come to that," Robb told him as he stood from his seat, and handed Jon a scroll with the broken seal of House Frey. "That's not all. I received a raven from the Twins shortly after Aemon was born. Prince Joffrey is to wed Roslyn Frey."

A desperate move from a lack of choices, but one that could cut them off from the south."The Lannisters are preparing for the next war," he said through gritted teeth as he read the message for himself. "Old Frey must be overjoyed."

"Aye, I'm sure the old goat is happy we broke the alliance now. I'm sure he never dreamed he'd make such a match. I'm going to send more men to Moat Cailin, I've no doubt they're up to something."

"Seems like the wisest course," Jon replied, wondering what the Twins might look like engulfed in flame.

Robb sifted through the papers on his desk. "I received another raven from Castle Black. It seems Commander Mormont is leading a ranging beyond the Wall. He believes Mance Rayder is up to something."

Castle Black loomed in his mind's eye, and he wished the King Beyond the Wall were the only threat there. "Well, I expect I shall be your eyes and ears there in a few months time…" The thought of leaving now felt like a punch to the gut. "There's something else... When it's time, I'd like for Daenerys and the babe to remain in Winterfell."

Robb raised his eyebrows. "How did you ever get her to agree to that?"

"She's not happy with me at the moment…" he said, wincing as he remembered the hurt in her eyes. "But she wants to do what is best for Aemon."

Robb put a hand on his shoulder. "She'll forgive you in time. Gods know I'd never want to bring my wife and child to such a place."

Jon looked at his brother intently. "I need to know they will both be safe and well cared for."

"Your family will always be safe with me," Robb told him solemnly. "You have my word."


Dany sat looking out the window with Aemon in her lap, his little hand clutching the tail of a carved wooden direwolf. She'd broken her fast alone in her chambers that morning, and she wondered how she could avoid seeing anyone else for the rest of the day. Her anger with Jon still raged inside her chest, and she knew if Margaery saw her in this state, she'd know immediately something was amiss. Dany did not yet have the patience to discuss the matter.

A gentle knock at the door had her rolling her eyes before she politely called, "Come in."

A pair of servants entered, carrying an ornate trunk. "This just arrived for you, My Lady. From Dorne."

"Dorne?" Dany asked, as they set the trunk on her bed.

Setting Aemon down in his crib, she ran her fingers over the smooth edges of the trunk before unclasping the lid. A breathtaking red gown made of soft silk lay inside, and she lifted it carefully to get a better look. It had a plunging neckline and sleeves meant to hang loose off the shoulders, a dress she'd never be able to wear in Winterfell… A strange gift… and she couldn't help but wonder what purpose there was in sending such a gift now? Were the Martells thinking more seriously about forming an alliance?

Before she could think on it longer, there was another rapping at the door. This time when she bid her visitors enter, she was greeted by Margaery, Sansa and Sansa's friend, Jeyne Poole.

Margaery greeted her with a warm smile while Sansa and Jeyne crowded around Aemon in his crib. Margaery took Dany's arm. "We were worried about you," she told her with a pointed look that told her she was losing patience with Sansa and Jeynes' constant giggling and prattling.

Dany had grown to appreciate the North's new queen but she lied to avoid any prying questions. "Aemon has been a little out of sorts this morning. I didn't want to trouble you."

Margaery looked unconvinced. "Nonsense," she replied, before the red silk on Dany's bed caught her eye. "Did you get a new gown?"

"it just arrived," Dany said, feeling relief at the change in subject. "A gift from the Martells."

Sansa and Jeyne darted to the trunk, admiring the fine embroidery. "It's beautiful," Sansa said.

"I've never seen a dress like it!" Jeyne exclaimed.

"You must try it on!" Sansa told Dany.

"I'd rather not just now," Dany replied. "But the two of you may if you wish." Both girls' faces lit up at the prospect and Sansa lifted it carefully out of the trunk before they retreated to the other side of the room with the lavish gown.

Dany scooped Aemon back into her arms before joining Margaery in sitting by the window.

Margaery smirked and shook her head. "They are dear girls but sometimes I find them to be a bit tiring." Dany gave her a weak smile, and Margaery narrowed her eyes. "What's wrong? Is it about your upcoming journey?"

Dany averted her eyes, looking down at Aemon as he cooed for her attention. "Jon wants us to stay."

"Well, at least one of you has some sense."

Dany sighed, regretting confiding about the situation at all.

"I can't understand why you're so determined to go," Margaery went on. "It sounds like a dreadful place."

Dany pulled a serious face. "I have to go. I know we're meant to do it together. We did not bring dragons back into the world for nothing."

"And what about this little fellow?" Margaery asked, making a face at Aemon that made him giggle.

"He belongs with me, with both of us." Dany sighed. "I understand he wants to protect me, and Aemon, but I wish he'd listen to me. It doesn't matter what either of us want."

A piercing shriek erupted from across the room. Dany leapt to her feet, holding Aemon tightly against her chest as her eyes sought the source of the terrible screaming. Jeyne stood in the middle of the room, pale face twisted in agony as her fingers tore at her throat leaving red streaks that matched the lovely red silk hanging prettily around her slender frame.

"What's wrong with her?" Margaery cried.

Sansa shook her head, her face red with tears. "I don't know! She just started choking!"

Dany's mouth fell open in realization. "The dress."

"Get the maester!" Margaery commanded a serving maid. Jeyne's pale face turned a grotesque shade of purple, the whites of her eyes turned blood red, before her knees buckled and she fell to the floor. Sansa rushed to her side, but jumped back when Margaery shouted, "Don't touch her!"

Time seemed to slow as though this were a terrible nightmare, all of Dany's senses turning numb as they helplessly watched the girl writhe on the floor, horrific retches and gasps escaping her, her blood shot eyes wide with desperation. Sansa dropped to her knees and vomited as blood began to leak from the tortured girl's eyes and mouth, and Dany turned away, shielding Aemon from the terrible scene as some of her senses began to return.

By the time Maester Luwin arrived, Jeyne's tortured eyes had already lost their light, and regarded the girl's lifeless form sadly, careful not to touch the treacherous gown. "This dress was laced with a powerful poison. No one is to touch her."

Dany could taste bile rising in the back of her throat. She'd touched the gown, she'd opened the traitorous trunk. How close had she come to such grisly death? And what about Aemon? She found a chair quickly as she began to feel faint.

Sansa's voice quivered with fear as she spoke. "I touched the gown, Maester Luwin," she told him before dissolving into hysterical tears.

The maester examined her palms and arms quickly. "You are alright, my child. This poison appears to act quickly. If enough of it were to have touched you, we would already see the effects. I suspect the poison was spread inside the garment, so that the wearer would be the one affected."

Everything went quiet and all Dany could hear was the steady pounding of her heart. Someone had intended for her to die.

Margaery held Sansa as the girl's body was racked with sobs. "Dorne has no reason to harm you."

Dany closed her eyes to steady her nerves, hearing Jamie Lannister's mocking laugh in the back of her mind.


Jon dashed through the warm halls of the great keep, his heart sputtering, his mind unable to hold on to a single coherent thought. Nothing was making sense. He was told Jeyne Poole was dead, poisoned somehow. Dany was said to be alright, but he wouldn't trust it until he was able to see her for himself.

Their argument the night before weighed on him, the way her eyes had pleaded with him. He would hurt her if it would keep her safe, but now it seemed not even Winterfell could shelter them from their enemies.

He burst through the door to find her pacing around their chambers, rocking Aemon in her arms while he cried softly.

When their eyes met, she released a strangled sob, and he quickly wrapped them both in an embrace. "Are you alright?"

"I'm not hurt," she replied, her voice catching. "That poor girl." Aemon continued to whimper at his mother's distress.

"I was wrong," he told her quickly. "I'm not leaving you, neither of you."

"It was meant for me," she said sadly. "She died because of me."


Cold wind whipped against Jon's face as he and Dany rode out alone to the Wolfswood to meet the dragons. The smell of rain weighed heavy in the air, and he thought to suggest they try again tomorrow, but he knew today she was determined. Dany had already forced herself to part with little Aemon that morning, her eyes swelling with tears as she left the great keep without him for the first time since his birth. He would be in the care of Queen Margaery and Sansa for the few hours they planned to be gone. Sansa was still deeply mourning the loss of Jeyne, but she seemed to find some enjoyment in doting upon the babe.

There'd been no formal plan to set out this morning, but Dany had woken him with a gentle kiss against his cheek. "Today, my love. It must be today."

She didn't have to say more for him to know what that meant. Four months had passed since little Aemon was born, and those four months had been some of the happiest of his life, even if he had been plagued with paranoia and suspicion since the attempt on Dany's life. They'd spent their days in peace within the castle walls, watching their son grow, delighting in his non stop babbling and gummy grins. Jon had always felt like an outsider in Winterfell, a guest who'd overstayed his welcome, but with this family of his own he found belonging and purpose. That purpose was an all consuming urge to keep them safe.

Soon after Aemon turned three months old, Dany's dreams returned. Fitful sleep plagued visions of snow and fire, and all manner of blue eyed monsters. She'd slept with the strange amulet she was given at Greywater Watch, and thankfully, her dreams came without sickness. After the dreams returned, Dany insisted it was time for them to try again with the dragons, and now Jon had run out of excuses. Now, as they came upon the dragons in their tangled nest in the woods, he found himself hoping more for failure than success.

Dany approached Dreamfyre with a confidence that surprised him, her soft hands caressing against the beast's hardened scales. Since he'd known her, she'd always accepted her duty without question, so much like himself when he was a green boy, eager to take the vows of the Night's Watch. He'd do anything to forgo his duty now, to selfishly horde his family away like a secret treasure.

Dreamfyre seemed to recognize why they were there, bending a wing to encourage her light steps. Her hair blew behind her like a silver banner as she climbed up on his back, and stayed close, ready to break her fall should she come toppling down again. To watch her, one might think she had done it a thousand times, and he could almost forget that the last time she'd gone this far she'd been thrown to the ground. Almost.

He watched her carefully even as Rhaegal came closer, shifting restlessly on his feet, unwilling to be left out. Dany's wide eyes betrayed excitement and fear.

Jon's heart was still within his chest. "Do you have a good hold?"

She only nodded, the wide smile spreading across her face contagious.

Rhaegal snorted impatiently, pressing his snout into Jon's hand. He took a deep breath and surveyed the cloudy grey sky before he turned to the feisty green dragon. "Are you ready for this, boy?"

Rhaegal chirped happily, folding his wing to Jon just as Dreamfyre had done. His scales were hard and unyielding but pleasantly warm to the touch, as Jon followed Dany's example. Rhaegal was twice the size of a horse now, but somehow easy to climb. His heart was thundering against his ribcage as he took his seat, shifting until he was somewhat comfortable before clasping his hands tightly around two boney spikes. A powerful feeling surged through his veins... This was right, this was natural, and utterly terrifying.

Jon took another breath before looking at Dany, and when their eyes met he barked out a laugh, the reality of the moment sinking in. He was really atop a dragon. "Now we sh-"

Dany interrupted him with a command in their mother tongue. "Sovegon!" (fly)

He heard her gasp as Dreamfyre took the air, and his own cry of "Seven hells!" as Rhaegal spread his emerald wings and leapt into the air. As they drew up and out of the tree line, out of the reach of the old and dark branches of oak, evergreens and black brier, Jon realized he was holding his breath. His blood was humming in his ears, his hands gripping so tightly to Rhaegal's horns he felt his fingers growing numb. Chancing a look down, he saw the Wolfswood growing smaller beneath him, the clouds no longer far above him but around him.

He and Dany were the only two alive who could soar through the air like birds, above castles and seas. A rush of boldness had him reaching out to let his fingers play in the icy dampness of a passing cloud until the precariousness of his position had him quickly gripping the horn again. Rhaegal responded to his subtle movements with the ease of horse, and the longer they flew the more daring he felt, soaring higher, taking sharper turns.

It was Dany who made the first attempt at diving lower to the ground, and it was all Jon could do to keep from shouting, his stomach flipping as he did the same. The grey clouds parted for a moment, allowing the sun to sparkle across Rheagal's wings and a gushing stream below. He didn't know how much time had passed when the sky darkened once again. A crack of thunder boomed around them and Jon pushed Rhaegal to take the lead. While smaller, he found the green dragon was faster and more graceful and he had no trouble overtaking his larger brother.

Urging the dragon to the ground, he barely managed to hold his seat as they landed with an earth trembling thud near the remnants of some unknown tumbledown tower, overgrown with moss and ivy. Dismounting quickly, he was eager to see Dany safely on land, the blowback of Dreamfyre's wings causing him to shield his eyes as they touched down.

Her cheeks were pink from the frosty air, a beaming smile hung on her lovely face. "We did it!" she told him happily, her words sending a rush of warmth through his chest.

He offered his hand, but soon was stepping back to steady himself as she leapt into his arms, wrapping her arms around his neck and her legs around his waist.

He held her by her seat as she breathed against his skin. "That was indescribable." Her mouth sought his mouth hungrily, kissing him deeply while her little hands caressed the sensitive skin of his neck. At her touch his blood was rushing again.

"If you don't stop that," he told her. "I'm going to rip that pretty dress right off you."

She looked down at him through half lidded eyes. "Show me you have more control than that."

A strangled groan escaped him as he nipped the pale skin of her neck. Supporting her with one hand, his other trailed down over her chest to fuss with the fastening of her gown at her waist. Just as he managed to loosen the tie, another great crack of thunder rolled, and rain began to fall.

They both sighed in frustration, breaking apart as Jon set her down. Inspecting the ancient tower, he brushed away ivy, removing moss covered stones until he found the way down into the vault of the tower.

The air was musty inside, with very little light coming through, but it was a sound enough structure to wait out the rain. Raindrops pattered against the stone outside in a pleasing and hypnotic way as they sat close together leaning against a wall.

"What place is this?" Dany asked in the dark, her breath visible on the air.

"I don't know. Whoever built it is long gone and forgotten."

"That makes me sad," she said softly, leaning closer to him. "Eventually, time erases all things."

He kissed the top of her head, unable to find words of comfort for her, as he too felt time slipping through his fingers.

"What do you think the future holds for us?" She asked, catching him off guard, then adding. "Do you think ours will be a story with a happy ending?"

He wanted to shout yes, of course they would have a happy ending, he would see it done, but fear had been gnawing at him as the weeks passed. This time they had had since Aemon's birth, so simple and unexpected, was drawing to a close. "I never had much faith in happy endings until I met you. Now I'm learning all things are possible."

She drew her knees close to her body and tucked her head under his chin, her hair still damp. "I have been so determined that we should do our duty that I did not think of what we would be giving up. I did not think to be afraid, and now I am afraid."

"Hush, love," he whispered, holding her closer. "Right now, there's nothing to fear."

"I fear everything," she cried, her voice starting to hitch. "Lannisters, Baratheons, Freys... dead men beyond the Wall… I always knew this was a dangerous game, but it isn't just us anymore… now when we play, we play with Aemon's life just as much as ours."

He felt helpless as her shoulders shook. She voiced fears that had been plaguing him since her dreams had returned, but seeing her in such a fragile state allowed him to find his strength. Tilting her chin up, tears still streamed down her face until he wiped them away. "What's this?" he asked with a soft smile. "The Mother of Dragons, the descendant of Aegon the Conqueror, doubts herself?" She averted her eyes, and he kissed her forehead. "Who do you fear most?" he asked with a smirk. "The one armed knight or old Walder Frey?" She giggled at his jest and his heart lightened at the sound.

"Are you telling jokes, Jon Snow?" she asked with a raised eyebrow and the hint of a smile. "I'm not sure it suits you."

He snorted. "I don't intend to make a habit of it. Neither of us can say what will happen, but we will be together every step of the way."

"Together," she whispered against the corner of his mouth. "Make me forget, Jon." He kissed her gently, delicately laying her on the roughened dirt floor, certainly no place for a queen. Safe from the unending rain, he leisurely opened her garment, using measured movements to make her come undone. They both needed time to forget, and there in that nameless tower all of their cares and responsibilities faded away until the clouds parted and the rain died.


Dany closed her eyes and focused on the feel of the evening wind blowing through her long silver tresses. Nothing rejuvenated her more than the time she spent soaring the skies with Dreamfyre.

Another two months passed them by, days and weeks passing like hours as Aemon grew right before her eyes. There had been no more news from Castle Black but men and provisions had already set out just as the leaves of the oak trees in the Wolfswood began to turn red. They would make their way there themselves on dragon back in a fortnight.

She and Jon had been practicing everyday, their connections with each dragon strengthening. Viserion seemed to look on with sorrow, and she hoped one day little Aemon might be a rider for him. In preparation for making the journey with their infant son, they worked with Winterfell's saddler to fashion riding saddles for their winged mounts. Dany was grateful no one was hurt as Dreamfyre had huffed and screeched with irritation.

This early evening ride wasn't going as smoothly as most with Dreamfyre jerking and snapping in indignation at the saddle. Dany too was adjusting to the new contraption, having grown used to riding bareback, but if it would make her and Jon and Aemon safer, she would adapt.

She couldn't see Jon and Rhaegal anymore, the quick dragon having a liking for pulling ahead in an effort to outshine his larger brother. Dany was finding it more difficult to hold her seat as the Dreamfyre continued to crane his neck, his dagger sharp teeth trying to reach at the straps holding the saddle secure. Fearful he would be successful and send her plummeting to the earth, now far below her, she urged Dreamfyre to land near an unfamiliar treeline.

Dismounting quickly, she watched with wide eyes as he jumped about, determined to rid himself of the beautiful leatherworking which had taken the saddler so much time to prepare. She caressed the scales of his neck to calm him, and he responded to her touch with a ferocious roar, before taking to the sky again, leaving her alone on unfamiliar ground.

Pulling her cloak more tightly around her, she sighed in frustration as she ambled along the forest's edge. Dreamfyre would return, she told herself, and if he would not, Jon would find her. She looked west to see the sun sinking lower in the sky. Still a few hours of daylight, she assured herself.

The break of a branch and the gentle plodding of hooves, had her frozen in place. She looked about quickly for a place to hide, but it was useless as a group of five men on horseback emerged from the wood.

There were no sigils that she could see, and her mind raced to think of where she might be. Surely, they had no enemies in the North. Beside the men ran huge black dogs, a breed unfamiliar to her. The hair on the back of her neck stood up as the men drew nearer and/ she made eye contact with an ugly young man at the center. He had long dark hair and sickly pale eyes, eyes with an unnerving familiarity. He rode a blood red stallion and a bow was slung over his shoulder.

Hunting, she told herself, these men are merely hunting.

"What's this?" the unknown lord spoke. "A Lady who's lost her way?"

Dany swallowed. "I am not lost, My Lord. My escort will be returning shortly."

A queer smile spread across his wormy lips. "I know who you are. Silver hair, wayward dragon… Welcome to the North, Daenerys Targaryen."

A spark of anger flashed in her belly. "Who are you, My Lord?"

He kept a straight face, but she saw his nostrils flare. "I am not a Lord I'm afraid, My Lady but you are on my father's land. We were just enjoying a hunt when we saw your dragon flying overhead. I'm sure tonight's game appreciates the interruption."

Dany grew tired of his riddles. "And who is your father?"

"I thought you said you weren't lost?" he replied, cutting her with his eyes.

Dany felt her heart begin to drum and she silently pleaded with Dreamfyre to return as she searched the skies above.

"My Lady," the queer man began again. "I am sure the King in the North would have his humble servant escort his brother's wife to safety. Allow me to take you to the Dreadfort before nightfall, and we will see you safely to Winterfell on the morrow."

A sickening realization washed over her, and she remembered that Roose Bolton had the same eerily pale eyes. "As I said already, My Lord, my escort will be returning shortly, now be on your way."

He scoffed and shared a smirk with his men. "My Lady, these woods are crawling with all manner of beasts. Many young women who go in, never again come out. Believe me."

She heard the wind rushing under his wings and the look of terror on the Bolton men's faces before she saw her wayward child. He landed beside her, roaring from deep in his belly at the strange men. Their horses reared,two of the men fell hard to the ground, except the Bolton boy's malevolent red stallion, who stood his ground. The dogs barred their teeth and growled savagely, unwilling to leave their master's side.

Dany breathed a sigh of relief and immediately climbed the scaly stair to retake her seat, saddleless once again. Pride bloomed in her chest as Rhaegal touched down quickly after, the green dragon bellowing his own ferocious threat at the startled men. To her dismay, the Bolton boy looked on only with astonished curiosity.

There was an urgency in Jon's eyes as he asked her if she was alright, and she realized he must already know who these men were.

The Bolton boy's queer smile returned as he looked up at Jon. "Jon Snow. You're somewhat of a hero for a lowly bastard such as myself. From Snow to dragon lord. I was quite surprised to find your lady wife out here alone. I am sure you can understand my concern for her safety."

Jon pulled a stony expression. "Her safety is no concern of yours, and neither of us will be requiring your assistance."

He bowed his head respectively, but Dany felt the gesture hid something far more sinister. "As you wish, My Lord. Should either of you ever find yourselves in need, you shall always have friends at the Dreadfort."

The Bolton men returned back into the forest the way they came, and Dany pitied what creatures lay hidden there.

When they were gone, she looked to Jon from atop his dragon. "Roose Bolton's son?"

"His bastard, Ramsay Snow," Jon replied, eyes peeled on the treeline they disappeared into. "It's best we stay away from these woods altogether."


The morning had arrived. It was time to leave the haven of Winterfell's walls for the dark and drafty ones of Castle Black. He felt half mad to truly be going through with it, to be taking his wife and infant son to a place too rough and remote for most men.

The men and servants sent ahead by Robb had surely arrived by now. And Greyjoy. Jon could not guess what would make Greyjoy want to join their mission, and he didn't trust it. He'd never trust Theon, but there was also no reason to turn him away.

Dany was next to him, sat atop Dreamfyre, speaking sweetly to their little son who was wrapped tightly to her chest. By the grace of the old gods, the saddler had managed to fashion another saddle for the rebellious beast, and at least with Aemon present, Dreamfyre seemed more subdued. If they only stopped once at midday, they would reach Castle Black before the evening meal, and Jon was eager to arrive, and safely settle his family in.

He was about to ask Dany if she was ready when he heard her say, "Good morning, Arya."

Jon looked down to see his little sister standing close by, looking at him expectantly. Aemon squealed and shook a meaty fist at her, to which she waved at him delightedly. "Arya, what are you doing here?" he asked. They'd said their goodbyes the night before. His little sister was up to something.

Arya tilted her chin up at him. "You promised you'd take me for a dragon ride."

Jon released an exasperated sigh. "Now isn't the time."

Arya looked around before moving closer. "Take me with you. I can help. I'm no use to anyone here."

"What about Alys? Or your friend Gendry?"

"Alys is settled with the servants and Gendry is busy at the smith. I want to go with you."

"Arya, I can't. What would your lady mother think if I just took you along? And on a dragon no less."

"Well, she can't really hate you more than she does now."

Dany nodded thoughtfully. "That is true." Arya's eyes lit up, realizing she could get her wish.

Jon gave Dany an incredulous look before turning back to his sister. "What about Robb?"

Arya shrugged. "I left a note."

"Fine," he could hardly believe his own ears as he agreed to whisk his sister away. "But any trouble and I'm bringing you straight back."

Arya beamed, a pack already slung over her shoulder as he helped her clamber up the dragon and take a seat in front of him. Jon couldn't think of a time when he'd seen as much joy on his sister's face. "I'm riding a dragon!" she exclaimed. "And going to see the Wall!"

Jon laughed as he commanded Rhaegal to take to the air. "Little sister, before this is over, I expect we'll all see many new things."