Thanks for the faves, follow, and review guys ^^ Sorry for the long wait, here's a new chapter. Introducing a little of the world of the shifters, the Starks, and exploring Jon and Dany's relationship a bit further that made the spark that brought them closer.
This one took longer since I need to explain a lot whilst furthering their relationship.
By the way, this fic is also in AO3. And be sure to check out my other Jonerys fic Defiers of Fate ^^
Here goes!
As the night grew late and the moon and stars hung high in the dark night sky, Winterfell sleeps. A few direwolves were assigned to patrol the area and the human town outside the castle, watching over the sleeping men.
Only the people who pledged their loyalties to House Stark were able to shapeshift into a direwolf, for they must protect the clan and their people. Every time a recruit joins the pack, a priest must perform a ritual upon them before they can shift into a direwolf. The exception of Ser Rodrik, for he is the Master-at-Arms of Winterfell, the black grizzly bear's strength is needed to teach the young recruits. The same goes with Benjen, as he swore to the Night Watch, he abandoned his wolf skin and shifts into a ranger panther until the end of his days. Thus, with the diversity of the kingdom, Winterfell is in good arms to rest after the ordeal.
All except two brothers.
Ned Stark padded to his brother's hut, careful not to let anyone follow him. The night is usually the hour of the wolves, but after today's ordeal, it's best for the pack to rest.
He needs to discuss this matter with his brother.
As he arrived, he found his panther brother watching the horizon. His Night Watch training never seize to impress Ned, the ranger has assigned himself to help train the new recruits of the packs, and thus, he has stayed in Winterfell for moons. Truth to be told, it is much better this way.
Ned shifted back to his human form. Immediately, he felt the warmth faded slowly if it weren't for his cape. His agility faded as well and his footsteps became louder, which made the panther's ear perking up as he noticed him.
Benjen huffed and shifted to his human form to greet him. "Brother."
"Benjen." Ned greeted back and stood beside him. "Couldn't sleep?"
"Aye." The ranger looked back to observe the town, "Not after what happened today." He replied solemnly.
"Then I suppose you know why I am here." He joined his brother to observe the town of his people. "You accepted the Dragon cub with no hesitation."
Benjen sighed, "When I saw whom Jon brought on his back all the way from White Harbor, I had to. It seems that the gods brought them back together and to us for a reason." He firmly stated before his voice softened. "A Dragon and a Wolf."
"Aye."
"Just like Lyanna and Rhaegar." He said softly, he can hear a hint of hurt in his tone. "That was why I spoke for her."
Ned nodded. "I understand." Their sister fell for the dragon a long time ago, but their time together was short. Now, their only legacies are amongst their pack. "Jon and Daenerys seem to take a liking of each other. But I am not sure how the other clans will take it."
"Aye, as much as I am glad for them, it might raise suspicions that Daenerys Targaryen may want her claim back. People will speak, the whole Westeros will soon know of her presence in Winterfell, especially Robert."
"Leave Robert to me, brother."
"Well then, that leaves the pack. I don't know how they feel about her, but the boy is determined to not leave her side." He pointed. "Let them have their moment first, the Dragon cub will get used to the pack and so will they." Then he paused. "Or should I say…two Dragon cubs."
"No one knows about Jon yet."
"No, but I have trained the boy. I have seen his strength, Ned." Benjen explained. "He is more skillful than the other cubs, he runs faster as if he were flying, and he fights as if the dragon lives in him. That is no ordinary land shifter. I have trained recruits in Castle Black, and cubs at his age don't fight this skillfully. And…" he paused for a while before revealing his discovery. "It seems that he and Daenerys can communicate with each other whilst Jon is still in his wolfskin."
Ned turned wide-eyed at him, he did not just hear that. "What?"
"The Dragon cub was hesitant to go with Arya at first, but after she turned to Jon, he spoke to her and I saw she understood every word he said, Ned. No other shifters can communicate with a human whilst in their form unless they are of the same clan."
"I see," Ned sighed. All his time knowing him, Jon is gentle towards a female, but never to a point like this. "It appears that maybe the dragons will be returning."
"Aye, maybe even reclaiming their throne."
Ned nodded. "Then we will stand by the cubs until the day they reclaim their birthright."
Benjen turned to Ned. "You want them to?"
Ned nodded. "What we are doing is more than just a good deed, brother.
"Westeros is changing since the Dragons fell. Without them, all the clans are killing one another on who gets the right of the Seven Kingdoms, and not all are fit for the role. Robert is failing his duty as king, he attends fewer councils or any political meetings to get things done, he used the golds for wine and gold. Slowly, the kingdom could fall, and a rebellion may arise", He stated. "The Stags are already complaining of his leadership, and Tywin is already on the move. That is why he wants Daenerys dead, to remove her from her claim. The pack will not be safe if the lion or the stags crowned themselves, they will mark us as treason."
The thought of Daenerys dead sends a shiver down his spine, remembering the day when the Lannisters brought two dead children of Rhaegar Targaryen for the whole clans to see. If they are not careful, the Starks may be next. "The Dragon cubs may just be our only hope of survival."
"I understand. I will ensure their safety." Benjen agreed, then he turned to Ned. "I plan to stay, brother. I will help watch over the Dragon cubs and train your cubs together with Ser Rodrik, the Night's Watch are in good hands as I stay here. Would that be alright?"
Ned only chuckled. "This is your home, brother. You are always welcome."
"And one more thing," Benjen quickly interfere before they jump into another conversation. "I will have Jon scout grounds that has no humans, if he vows to protect Daenerys, then I would prefer that they both stay close to Winterfell."
Ned thought about it and nodded. "Understandable. You can tell him that yourself since you are the one assigning his duties. Now, enough with the depressing talks, how about a drink?"
The brothers laughed, enjoying the diffuser of tension before talking about other matters, making their way into Benjen's hut.
Under the shadows nearby, the phyton Melisandre heard the entire conversation about the Dragon cubs before she slithered away.
She then noticed something painting the sky, the bleeding star. Tail as long as a dragon's, shooting its way across the sky until it fades away. No one seems to notice it but her. Most unusual indeed.
Dany woke up to the sound of the door opening. She didn't know how long she slept, but it was the most peaceful sleep she had ever had. It was difficult to remember if she had one before, not with her situation.
But starting today, that may change the day Jon saved her.
Jon was standing at the door with something in his hands, he is wearing black breeches and doublet. "Good morning, Dany. Sorry, did I wake you?"
She rubbed her eyes, and sat up, covering her chest with the fur coats. She smiled at him, no one had ever been this nice to her before her brother turned mad. "No, I am just waking up." She greeted back.
He closed the door. "How is your arm?"
She rubbed her arm, tracing her fingers on the dried scar. "It's healing, I'll let it dry."
Jon nodded, walked towards the bed and sat on the edge. "Here", he handed her what it looks like another dress, but with white colors. "Arya and our Old Nan managed to find more for you, it should keep you from the cold."
Dany took the dress from his hands and carefully inspected them. It has long sleeve and slipped between the dress is what it seems to be a white breeches and a shawl, which fell on her lap. Nonetheless, Dany did not complain, no one has ever gifted her anything she needed. "Thank you."
He gave her a warm smile. "I'll let you change here, I am about to break my fast. Would you like to join me?"
The thought of something to eat made her stomach grumble. Back then, she learned to ignore it. But now, that may too change. "Yes, I'll be out in a minute."
He nodded and left for the door. "I'll wait for you outside." At that, he closed the door behind him.
Once Dany finished changing, she neatly folded her old dress and set it on the table. The dress she wore fits, but there is no glass for her to inspect what she looked like. She combed her long silver hair with her hand as best as could, hoping that she will at least look polite enough for the pack. She wore the same sandals she was given by Arya, then walked out of Jon's chamber. She found leaning against the wall in front of his chamber, waiting for her as promised.
She saw his grey eyes darting from her head to toe, inspecting her, this made her nervous. The last time someone inspects her was when her brother was trying to sell her to Drogo. She hoped her appearance won't bother him, she felt so guilty for making him do everything for her. The least she could is not to bother him too much.
But Jon proved her wrong. His eyes were kind and he gave her a smile, "you look nice."
She blushed at the compliment, feeling her cheeks warming. "Thank you, Jon."
"Come, let us eat."
The dining hall was rather dull. It was so silent that the only thing that can be heard is the fire crackling from their torches, the morning is early after all. Dany guessed that the rest were still sleeping, considering the seats were nearly all empty.
"I come here every morning at this hour so that I can do my morning patrol later on," Jon seemed to see the curiosity on her face as he explained to her, he led her to a table full of fresh loaves, eggs, and bacons and handed her a plate to load hers as he filled in his. "You can go back to my chambers again if you want to after we eat."
She immediately shook her head at the thought of him leaving her alone. She saw how the pack looked at her, not many were welcoming. Going alone again is terrifying. Yes, they may have accepted her, but not all did. "I….is it alright, if I join your morning patrol?"
Jon furrowed his eyebrows, "It could be boring."
She immediately thought fast. "I…..I have never seen Winterfell before. It could be a good start for me to get to know this place more." While the woods terrified her, being in a place filled with people despising her frightened her even more.
"Alright", she felt relaxed at his answer.
After eating, they went outside the castle. Some direwolves passed them and gave a quizzical look before huffing and moving on, she felt uncomfortable at the stares. Jon must've sensed her uneasiness. "Don't worry, Dany. They'll get used to you, it's just a phase."
She lightly nodded. She didn't really mind if people didn't like her, but the glares. It reminded her of her own brother, he would be unpredictable if he would attack her and it frightened her. What if someone were to do the same? And Jon won't be there to protect her?
Pondering at this, she felt his hand gently touching her arm. "Everything will be fine, Dany. As long as you stay with us, you will be safe." He smiled at her. "Arya likes you already, she is fond of your family. Always pretending she was Visenya Targaryen. You'll see her later."
She remembered the girl who spoke for her without hesitation, she was so friendly. She's smaller than her and Jon, not a pup but not an adult either. But she seems to think of her as a sister already, bringing in the things she needed.
As they got closer to the forest, Jon shifted into his wolf form. He then lowered himself to the ground, Climb on my back.
Dany looked at him quizzically. "I think I can manage walking."
Today I will be going a bit further from here, it'll take some time to get there. You are still recovering and new here, if anything happens, I can get us out fast.
She couldn't argue with that. While her bruises on her back and legs are recovering, it will still need proper healing. And he is right, she has never been to this part of Westeros. But she is still hesitating despite the excitement. "What if someone sees me?"
Then I will protect you. He said easily, his red eyes looking at her with care.
His words were promising, and he did keep his promise. She smiled at him. "Alright. Thank you, Jon." She then mounted on his back, put on her shawl and fisted his soft white fur.
You're welcome. He lifted himself up and padded into the forest, trotting along the lush green grass.
Dany had to admit, it's nice to be on his back. He is faster in his wolf form, the wind kissing her face and she can enjoy the view without feeling too tired, and his furs are softer than the furs in his chambers. He padded so fast, that leaping and climbing uphill wasn't a problem to him.
The North itself is beautiful. The trees stood still, the lake flowing gracefully, it's so peaceful. It made her wonder why he should even do his patrol, but everyone has their duties anyway.
They have been traveling for quite some time, the sun hung high now. Jon is right, it is a long way. She didn't question where they are going, but he only mentioned that he patrols the area.
Are you alright, Dany?
"I- yes, Jon. I'm fine." She said softly.
Do you want to stretch your legs for a while? You've been sitting on my back for quite a long time.
Dany shook her head. "No, I am fine, Jon. Are you?"
She heard him chuckle. I am fine, Dany. You are not heavy, I can carry you until we get back to Winterfell. I've been here before on my own, so I know how much strength I need.
She nodded. "I see."
The pack always have assignments from Uncle Benjen or Ser Rodrik. He added. Everyday we switch our duties, but sometimes I will be training with them. He trots up the hill and padded along the way.
She felt at ease as she remembered the panther who fought for her too. "I must thank your Uncle."
Ghost nodded. He is the most understanding amongst the family. Though sadly, he pledged his vow to the Night's Watch. So sometimes we get to see him, sometimes we don't.
"Oh, why is that?"
He has his duties up North and here. In the North, he is a ranger. Here, he trains and recruits new members for the Night's Watch. Luckily, when I found you, he is here. Otherwise, it'd be difficult for me to talk to my Lord Father and the pack.
Dany remembered his frustration that day. He did everything he could to fight for her when the pack doubted did not, she felt guilty for putting him in this mess. "I am sorry, Jon."
For what? He turned to look at her.
"You….you fought for me. I am afraid what the pack or the lions might do to you."
She heard him chuckle, Don't be too harsh on yourself, Dany. It's fine, it was my choice to keep you safe. You were attacked, I can't just turn my back away as it happens. His voice then turned sad, My only regret was that I went too far by killing your brother. I'm sorry, Dany.
"I…..my brother was cruel, and he never treated me well. I…..I was sure I'd die that day." She stated sadly, almost crying as she remembered the mad violet eyes of his, beating her until her body is bruised.
She saw him turning his head back to her as he padded. It's alright Dany, you are safe now. I won't let anyone hurt you like your brother did, you have my word.
She heard those words before. Ser Willem said the same thing, and it got him killed, so did Viserys and it made him mad, most people knew who they are, and they know better than to get involved. The thought of Jon and the pack dead because of her crept in her mind, "Jon, you shouldn't have done what you did to me." She softly sobbed.
This made him stop walking and look at her to meet her eyes. What do you mean, Dany?
This time she began to shiver and hugged herself. "We ….we had a caretaker, but he was killed to protect us. No orphanage would accept us….. because we are Targaryens, a family of the mad." She choked, unable to control herself. "My…my brother cared for me then, but….. he reached his limit the day he sold our mother's crown for food…and…and…."
Hey, hey, hey, slow down he tried to soothe her, lowering himself down and Dany dismounted him. She climbed down and walked a few feet away from him to calm herself down, but it was too no avail.
She hugged herself as tears rolled down her cheeks, panic took over her. Jon is too kind, it'll be his doom and the pack…. because of her. Everyone died because of her, if she stayed alone, no one will get hurt. Just like what the orphanage did. She should've been sold to the Dothrakis so that her brother can take them home, that way, Jon and the pack can be safe.
"Dany." She heard him softly called out to her, his human voice. "Dany, please, look at me." But she shook her head, unable to face him. She felt a hand on her shoulder, making her jolt and turn back in instinct, jerking the hand away.
She found him looking at her intensely, his grey eyes filled with care, he walked to her slowly. She back away a little, but Jon managed to get to her and held her arm gently. "Dany, I knew the risk I made the day I saved you."
She looked at him at his honesty. "What?"
"I know what it feels like. For nobody to want you." he breathed out.
Her violet eyes widened in disbelief. "What do you mean?"
He sighed, letting go of her and stood by her side. "I am a bastard, Dany. That was why it was difficult for me to convince the pack to accept you if it weren't for Arya and Uncle Benjen. I am not exactly likable in the pack, my siblings are good, but not the whole Stark family accepts me. Had anyone else from the pack found you that day, it'd probably be much easier for you to join. Instead, it had to be me who found you."
She walked closer to him, wanting to know more of what he meant. Did he regret finding her just like how she feared of his life because he found her?
He continued. "If it were Robb who found you, you would've been in a better condition since he is a prince. A council wouldn't have been called, no one would think lowly of you, the pack would gladly accept you, and if he fancies you, you could be his lady." She thought she may have heard a slight sting in his voice at the last one, but she isn't sure. "But no, somehow I was the one who found you. I don't regret it, but I wished things would've been better for you."
Dany realized that he too is hating himself, feeling like a burden to everyone. But not to her. She hasn't met this Robb, but for some reasons, a part of her is grateful that it was Jon who stayed with her than his brother.
She then held his arm with both her hands, "Jon, I am glad it was you who found me."
He turned to her with sad eyes, it didn't look like he believed her.
She sighed, she didn't really know what to say to him. So, she let out what she thought, "No one has cared for me like you did, Jon. I've been running away all my life, I can barely remember ever feeling safe, not even with my brother." She stated before continuing. "I'm grateful you brought me in, the shelter you helped me have, that's all I ever wanted, not the concept of luxury. I just…." she looked down at his arm and sighed. "I just fear what they would do to you on my account, Jon." Tears begin to well up her eyes again. "I am not worth the risk, I can't shapeshift because of what my father did, I have nothing, I'll be a liability. I'm…..I'm not…"
"You're not what, Dany?" he interrupts her and wiped her tears with his thumb. "You aren't a liability, Dany. You may not be able to shift like us, but you have the blood of the dragons, and they inspired greatness for generations. I'm sure you will do the same for us."
She looked at him, his confidence for her is amazing, even she couldn't find that in her. She looked down and smiled, "I hope so."
He chuckled, "I have been studying your history, I do admire your family's achievements and I hope I can be like them one day." She found him staring at her, smiling. "Sometimes, I wish I could fly just like them."
"A pity I could not shift then." She laughed.
He then turned into his wolf form, then he licked her face gently, cleaning the tears that painted her face, making her giggle. Then he lowered himself to the ground. Well then, you could be the first dragon to ride on a direwolf's back.
She smiled and quickly mounted him. As he lifted himself up, she hugged his neck, burying her face in his soft white fur. It made the direwolf turn his head back in confusion before she answered for him. "Thank you for everything you've done for me, Jon."
She heard him chuckle, Anytime Dany. And they continued their journey.
After walking along the path that leads out of the forest, she found themselves on an edge, overlooking what it looks like a field of crops and farms. Here we are. This is Torrhen's Square.
She can see the entire field in front of the square, it is full of life. Men getting their cows to plow the field, women milking their cows and nurturing the field, children playing along, and farmers bringing their wagons filled with hays. A few direwolves padding along, watching them as well. Some did help such as helping women bringing buckets filled with corns and placing them on their wagons, but otherwise, they are guarding the humans.
Dany watched them in awe. This is another side of humans helping each other to settle down, she dreamed of this kind of life. But interacting with them is something that she isn't ready yet, so she asked, "Do we have to meet them?"
Ghost observed the men before answering her. No, I have everything I needed to report.
She is confused now. "How?"
He was silent for a while before answering. While the distance makes it easier to spot the situation, usually I don't speak to the guards for their status reports. Grey Wind, my brother Robb does that. From here, we can see that food progress is working well, just like what he reported a week ago.
She watched the landscape again to confirm his observation. The fact that the fields are full of life tells what he picked up, he really is good at this.
Jon noticed her confusion and chuckled, Don't worry, it'll take some time to get used to observing. It took me months to practice, I'll show you how later on.
She turned to him. "Truly?"
The wolf nodded. Aye, you are one of us after all.
Dany felt warmed at his remark. One of us. She had never felt this happy to be accepted, she stroked his neck in hopes that he knows that she really appreciates all he had done for her. "Thank you, Jon."
He nodded. Come, we should head back to Winterfell. Hold on tight, I might pick up my pace from here.
"Alright." She fisted his fur again as Ghost bounded off to where they came from.
When they arrived, they found his Lord Father strolling along around the forest in his wolf form. His intense gray eyes staring at the forest, observing everything until he noticed them both approaching him.
The alpha shifted back to his human form. "You are back, my boy. With our new member, I see." He joyfully said before turning to her. "How's fare our new pack member?"
She felt shy, she has never been this welcomed by anyone. "Thank you, Lord Stark. I am adjusting to the North. It is lovely up here."
He chuckled at her. "I am glad you enjoyed it, the North have been our home for generations. And now, it is your home too. I feared that you might not feel comfortable here after what happened, but I can see our cub is helping you adapt." He looked at Ghost as he said this.
Jon immediately switched to his human form and looked away from him. "I'm just doing my duty, Father."
Duty. Is that all she is to him? She wondered.
But Ned Stark wasn't having it either. "Now, now Jon. She is part of the pack now, and the pack sticks together, that means she is family. We protect one another, that is your duty. Must I remind you all the time?"
He looked down at his remark. "Sorry, Father."
Family. She had never experienced having a real loving one, longing it since she was a child. And now that he is allowing her to call them her family.
Ned cleared his throat. "Now, back to your morning report, Jon. What do you have for me?"
Jon cleared his throat. "Torrhen's Square is progressing well in their farming, their wagons are always loaded with baskets full of riped fruits and- OOOFFF!"
A grey young wolf suddenly tackled Jon to the ground, startling Dany beside him. Ned was laughing at him, the grey wolf furiously wagged her tail. It then leaped off from him and shifted, revealing to be Arya. "Pinned ya, Jon!"
Ned was still hauling with laughter, "That's very good, Arya!"
Jon groaned as he sat up, "What? Where'd you come from, you runt?"
His little sister giggled, "I was behind the trees the whole time. Did you see father? He didn't notice me at all!" Then she noticed Dany, and her excitement grew. "Hi Daenerys! I was looking for you everywhere! Father said that we will have our lessons together with you from now on!"
This made her confused, she looked to Jon for answers, but he seemed to be as clueless as her.
"Ah yes," Ned recalled. "I have assigned our Maesters to have you, Arya, and Bran to learn together starting tomorrow. I wanted you to join Jon at first, but I believe it would be wise for you to know our roots before going any further."
Arya nodded vigorously. "Yes, yes! We will learn about the history of your family! Isn't it great Dany?" She excitedly told Dany and held her arm. "There will be Aegon, Visenya, and Rhaenys, the dragons, the war against the Blackfyres….."
Ned picked her up before she could chatter even more. "Now, now Arya, calm down. She gets the point, I am sure she is as excited as you." Then he turned to Dany, "No offense dear child, but how far are your lessons?"
She stuttered. "Well….I can read and write, if that's what you are asking."
"Other than that? Poetry? History? Arts?"
She fell silent and looked down, feeling ashamed for her lack of education. She had to run away and find food on the table everyday, the thought of learning wasn't even in the back of her mind as she had to survive.
But she didn't expect for Ned to notice her discomfort. He puts Arya down and placed a hand on her shoulder, "I am sorry for all the things that you didn't deserve to take, allow us to make it up for you from here." He then cleared his throat, "as you heard my daughter, you will be taking lessons with her and Bran. I'm sure you would want to know more about your kind."
"But…..but my family wronged you. I am not a Stark," she suddenly had to say it, she may not learn much about her family's history, but she had heard talks from the townfolks, of what her father did to the Starks. "I shouldn't be..."
"Now now Daenerys", he placed a hand on her shoulder, "Just because you are a dragon and what your family did, does not mean you don't deserve it."
"But- "
He raised his hand to stop her protest. "Not another word, Dragon cub." He said firmly but gently as well. "You are one of us now, and as a member of the pack, they are to learn each and everyday to grow. I know you have potential in you, child, you just need to discover it. And I am willing to offer it to you."
Daenerys is starstruck, unable to hold back a wide smile. She bowed respectfully, "Thank you, my Lord." She saw him smile warmly at her.
Never in her life, she was offered something for free, there will always be a catch. Out of habit, she needs to know. "Is there anything I could do to serve your pack, Lord Stark?" She asked meekly as she looked at him.
Ned raised his eyebrows, he looked up to the skies, then back at her. Then his grey eyes trailed to Jon, who is still standing beside her. "Well…..you can keep an eye on my boy, Jon. He tends to do something reckless and eventually hurt himself."
"Hey!" Jon complained.
"I mean it, boy." He stated. "You tend to turn wild and lose your way at times, just like when you were trying to hunt a savage deer."
"I…that's…." he stuttered.
"No, Jon. I will not have you coming back from your patrols with new injuries. From now on, Daenerys will patrol alongside with you before her lesson starts, and THAT is final." He commanded, Daenerys could feel the Alpha inside of him talking, standing his ground for his decision.
Jon ducked his head, "Yes, father."
"Good." He seemed satisfied with his answer. "Now off you go, I'm going for a meeting with my advisors. Jon, give Daenerys a tour around the castle, let her familiarize herself around here, but don't go out in town."
Jon nodded, "Yes, father."
His little sister came up to him then. "Father, may I join Jon and Daenerys on their morning patrol too?" Arya chimed in.
Ned thought for a moment before asking. "Well, I don't see why not. But only if Jon scouts nearby."
Arya whooped happily, making Dany smile in content. How lucky she is to be able to have a normal childhood.
And at that, Ned shifted to his grey wolf form, and bounded away. Dany watched him gracefully disappeared behind the Castle walls, he really is an honorable man, and his teachings are taught to Jon as well. Jon is right, she did feel safer now.
A hand suddenly dragged her out of her thoughts and pulled her, she turned to see Arya holding her hands, "Come on, Dany! We'll show you around Winterfell!" She tugged on her hand before calling out to Jon, "Hurry up, Jon!"
Jon chuckled, he wondered how Arya managed to know her nickname. Probably when he spoke to Dany on her first day here. Without a word, he followed them both into the castle.
The job was supposed to fall to Jon, but Arya was so enthusiastic that she was the one who showed Dany along whilst he walked beside her. She passionately told Dany what each room is, she really is welcoming her. Jon is thankful that his little sister is the one leading them, she is so happy that all the people who used to give him and Dany funny looks turned to smiles the moment they saw the princess of Winterfell. As she happily greeted them, they forgot about Jon and Dany's status, as if treating them as their own, but Jon knew that they are doing it for the sake of the princess. Maybe Arya should tag along with her more often.
They were taking a tour around the training grounds when they heard a group of laughter, Jon had the sudden urge to keep the two girls close. He quickly had Dany stay close behind him, Arya stopped chattering immediately when she saw whom the group of people are.
Theon Greyjoy and his two of the pack guards that Jon didn't bother to remember their names, one is tall, lean and smug-looking with long hair, whilst the other is snarky and devilish looking. Jon named them Horseface and Underfoot. Theon wore his tunic and fancy breeches just like the others, he whistled and came up to them, but his eyes went straight to Dany, "Well, well, look who is here." He teased as he walked towards them, "It's the famous Dragon cub, the bastard, and the runt."
Jon immediately had Dany close to him, trying to stay calm even when he wanted to punch him. "Dany, this is Theon Greyjoy. Lord Stark's ward."
"That's right." He remarked proudly. "I come from the Iron Islands, the home of the Krakens. Though in here, I am cursed to be a wolf until I get back to my home island." He then eyed Dany as if she's a piece of meat, "And you must be Daenerys Targaryen."
"I…yes, my prince." She stuttered.
"Ah, you were taught courtesy. Then this will be easy." He then turned to Jon, "You see Jon? This is how you treat a prince." His remark made his other two friends laugh, but it fumed him. He felt his hands clenched as he watched him walked closer to Dany. "Why don't you come with me, Lady Daenerys? I'll introduce you to the other packs and help you find a better guidance than this lowly bastard."
Jon clenched his jaws and fist, but he couldn't do anything. But he couldn't do anything because all the choice is Dany's, he doesn't have the right to object.
His sister though, didn't like what Theon had said to him, "Go away, Theon. Father said that Jon and I will accompany Daernerys, not you."
But he only laughed. "But Father would be most grateful if our Dragon member is guided by a prince, be reasonable little Lady."
Arya fumed, "I am not a lady."
Jon gently tugged Arya, "Let it go, Arya."
"Yes, little sister. Let it go." Theon sneered, then he looked at Dany again and this time outstretching his hand for her. "Now, allow me to guide you around Winterfell."
But Dany didn't take his hand, instead she took Jon's arm. "Thank you for your kindness, my prince. But I will be fine with Jon." She stated firmly, Jon felt her hands gripping his muscles, making his stomach flutter as he looked at her. He felt happy that she chose him over Theon.
Theon must've felt his pride was kicked down, for he grabbed Dany by her arm. "Now don't be ridiculous, princess." His tone turned dark. "I am a prince of Iron Island and I say you come with me- OWWW!" He screamed in pain and he loosen his grip, his cry startled Jon and Dany, "Let go of me, Arya!"
Jon and Dany quickly looked to see Arya has transformed into her wolf form and bit down Theon's thigh, she growled and snarled until he is several feet away from them. That's when Arya let go and stood her ground firmly in front of Jon and Dany and barked at Theon and his companions.
"Keh, Nymeria is out." Horse scowled.
Underfoot only smirked. "Doesn't mean we can't join in the fun." That's when he shifted into a brown direwolf, a bigger size than Nymeria, and he growled at her. But she only stood her ground and barked at them, but that only made Theon and the other man to shift as well into a direwolf. Theon turned into a dark grey direwolf whilst the other man turned into a dark grey direwolf, the ward prince took the lead in the middle and snapped at Arya, though she didn't flinch.
Jon immediately shift into Ghost and had Nymeria under him for Theon to face him instead of her, he snapped back at him. Nymeria took the chance to slip out of him and stood in front of the frightened Dany, protecting her from them.
Back off, half-breed. Theon growled. The Dragon cub comes with me, and we will call this even.
But Jon only growled back, not replying to him. He steadied himself, preparing for any attacks.
Until a loud roar echoed the ground from the entrance.
WHAT'S GOING ON HERE? A furious roar of a bear came. From the entrance, Robb and Ser Rodrik walked out in their forms. Robb, or he should say Grey Wind immediately bounded to Jon's side, standing his ground, shielding Dany and Nymeria from their views, and growled at them. The Black Bear, Ser Rodrik, thumped his way between the fighting wolves.
That's enough! The black bear snarled at Theon and his gang, You three, shift back and get inside NOW!
Theon sneered, then he and his friends shifted into their human forms and leaves for the castle.
Ghost carefully watched them disappear behind the walls of the castle before he shifted back to Jon, his half-siblings and mentor did the same. Robb wore his prince outfit, black tunic and breeches, Ser Rodrik with his training attire.
"That was close." Robb pointed out and he looked at Jon, Dany, and Arya.
Arya then turned to Jon, "You should've fought back when he called you a lowly bastard!"
Jon sighed and looked at her, "They were only playing, Arya."
She pouted and crossed her arms, "He's not supposed to even call you that. It's wrong."
Jon couldn't help but smile and ruffled her hair, making her giggle. "Let him say what he wants, I'll beat him in training for that."
A smile immediately crossed her lips, "I can't wait to see that, I hate him." She remarked, her brows narrowed, and her grey eyes trailed back to where they last saw Theon.
Robb laughed, "Calm down, little sister, he'll get what he deserves." Then he turned to Dany, "You must be Daenerys, I'm Robb Stark, Jon and Arya's brother and son of Lord Stark." He stretched his hand out to her, as she took it, Robb placed a kiss on her hand before letting it go. Jon felt a small sting in his heart as he watched the exchange, but he ignored it.
She blushed and smiled at Robb, "It's an honor, my prince."
He chuckled, "Why the honor is all mine, my Lady. I am most excited to have a Dragon amongst us, isn't that right Ser Rodrik?"
Their mentor chuckled, "Well, it'd be a fine addition indeed. Too many wolves will bore the pack, it's a good thing your Uncle is here."
Dany chuckled nervously, "Sadly, I can't shift into one."
"That doesn't mean that the blood of the dragons is in you, Dragon cub." He remarked, then his old eyes stared at her violet eyes with sincere and longing, something Jon have not seen in him. "Daenerys, you do not know how happy I am to finally meet you in person. I used to train your brother, Rhaegar, a long time ago."
Jon saw her violet eyes sparkled, something he find very admirable "You did?"
He stood up straight again, "Aye, a good lad indeed. I will never forget that boy, grew up strong, noble, and wise. I was so sure that he would rule the realm justly even if he can't shift." He smiled, then he placed both his hands on her shoulders gently and looked at her, searching for a trace of memory of her family from her face. "Look at you, little cub. You have grown beautiful like your mother and such manners like Rhaegar. I can see why our boy here came to rescue you and fought for you to join the pack."
Jon was taken aback and looked away, he felt his blood rushed up his neck and cheeks. "Well….that's….." His eyes turned to Dany adjacent to him, her violet eyes staring at him, cheeks turning a bit red, but smiling at him warmly. Her happy face gives him warmth in him somehow, he couldn't help but look at her for a bit too long.
Then he felt Robb elbowed him and sniggered, then he howled like a love-sick wolf. Jon playfully pushed him away, his brother only laughed.
Luckily Arya came to the rescue, walking up front Ser Rodrik, "You met Queen Rhaella and Prince Rhaegar, Ser Rodrik? You never told us that!"
The mentor laughs, "That's another story to tell, pup. I can't have you chattering about the dragons while you are in your sewing lessons." He then winked at her, making her realize her forgotten lesson today.
Arya froze, eyes wide in shock. Then she hid behind Dany, clutching on her dress, which Jon finds it odd yet lovely to see his sister bonding with Dany. "You are not here to take me to her right?" Dany smiled down at her and stroked her hair.
Robb chuckled, "Don't worry, Ser Rodrik and I are here for our own account." Jon always thought Robb is a wonderful brother, a true heir he is, but he is willing to mingle with Jon no matter his status, same goes with Arya. He always felt closer to them.
"Alright, enough of the chattering, cubs." The Maester of arms then turned to Arya, "Shouldn't you be at your sewing lessons with Septa Mordane today?" he asked her cheekily.
Arya turned red and looked down, "Well….I...uhm…."
"ARYA STARK!", a loud female shout came from the Castle, making them freeze. "WHERE ARE YOU, CHILD? YOU ARE SUPPOSED TO BE IN YOUR SEWING LESSONS!"
The little cub startled, she immediately shifted into Nymeria and tried to dart away, but Jon was faster. He shifted to Ghost and quickly caught the she-wolf before she could go any further, his giant paw weighed her down.
Hey! Let go, Jon! She struggled.
But Jon is strong with his grip, You have lessons, little pup. You don't want your mother to hear that you miss this.
I don't care what Mother says! I don't want to go to that stupid lesson! I want to go with you and Dany!
Ghost huffed, then he thought of something. Tell you what, you join this lesson, then you can come with me to my next patrol to the Lonely Hills next week.
Nymeria immediately stopped struggling, then she turned her head to Jon, her grey eyes wide with excitement. Promise?
He released his grip and licked her head, I promise Arya.
Tail wagging, she yipped. She licked his nose and bounded to the castle. She then shifted back and turned to them, "See you all later!" and she skipped happily into the castle.
Jon watched her until she disappeared into the castle, feeling a warmth for her. It was always Arya who would turn his brooding nature around, though sadly he couldn't always be with her.
He felt a warm hand stroking his neck, turning to see it was Dany. Her violet eyes staring at his red eyes, "You know how to get her attention very well."
He licked his nose where Nymeria trailed her tongue on, Let's just say it's a bargaining tactic.
She giggled at his remark, which Jon finds amusing.
Ser Rodrik cleared his throat, grabbing their attention. "Right, so I hope you are familiar with Winterfell, Daenerys. After all, it'll be your home from now on." Jon saw her smile at his statement, he wondered when the last time she felt she had a home.
Their mentor continued, "I am sure Lord Stark have told you about your lessons with Arya, you can also join the other maids to help you around Winterfell. Stay by Jon's side, he's one of my best students, so I trust he can keep you safe."
Jon felt a rush of pride, especially in front of Dany. He immediately straighten his posture, As you say, Ser. At the corner of his eyes, he can see Dany smiling at him, her cheeks blossomed red.
"Hey, am I not your best student?" Robb complained.
"You are going to be the next Alpha of Winterfell, young Wolf." He remarked. "I want you to be more than that, understood?"
"Understood." He confirmed.
"Excellent." Ser Rodrik remarked. "Now, who's hungry?"
The four of them entered the dining hall, and this time there are more people. Dany could smell roasted beef, bacons, and so many other foods. She used to beg for food and now the fact that it's willingly served is something that she needs to get used to, everything is new to her.
As they reached for the table to grab some food, she felt Jon stiffen beside her as he saw something amongst the crowd. She turned to him to see his face turned pale, "Jon, is there something wrong?"
He took a moment to respond, "I…I need to report back to my uncle, you go eat with Robb and Ser Rodrik. I'll see you all later, Robb will take care of you." He gave a silent nod to Robb, then he left without saying another word, she could tell that something is bothering him the moment they entered the hall. She watched him leave, and the moment he disappeared, she suddenly felt lonely.
"Come, Daenerys." She felt a hand on her shoulder, she looked to see that it belonged to Robb. "Let's get something to eat."
She nodded and followed Robb to fill her plate with roasted beef and egg, then she followed Robb and Ser Rodrik to sit at a far corner of the table. For the majority, the people in the hall ignored them, which pleases her.
Ser Rodrik wolfed down his beef like he hadn't had anything to eat since the morning, "Ahh, the Starks are always a master in cooking their meat. I will fall asleep easily tonight, thanks to that council meeting yesterday, training is canceled for now."
"Aye, I'd like a break from sparring anyway," Robb said, then he turned to Dany. "So, Daenerys…."
"Please, my prince. Call me Dany." She smiled.
"Alright, Dany. Then you can call me Robb." He stated. "So, Dany…how do you like Winterfell?"
She shrugged, "It's hard to say. I have only been here for a day, but the North is wonderful. Everyone is so joyful and happy."
Robb nodded as he chewed on his meat, "Aye, Jon showed you around on his morning patrol, didn't he?"
"Yes."
"A good start, he knows how to make you fall in love with the North. You will definitely love it here." He popped another beef in his mouth.
"Aye" Ser Rodrik agreed, "The other clans are so depressing I tell you, all about politics and nonsense that makes your head hurts and no views like here can help you get your mind off to wonder. But the North? We mind our own business, it's full of life." He wolfed down his meat as he told Dany before looking at her again.
"But why aren't you a wolf, Ser Rodrik?"
"I am a teacher, cub. And a teacher has got to show discipline to their students, so I finished a training from the Mormont clan, and they gave me permission to use their clan form to train each clan that I am hired to. As of today, the Alpha Lord Stark has assigned me to train their cubs after your brother."
Dany perked up at the mention of her eldest brother. "What was Rhaegar like? Was he difficult?"
The mentor laughed, "At first, aye. A feisty young dragon cub prince, just like this one here." He slapped Robb's back, making him choke on his meat. The young prince gave him a side-eye before resuming to his food, the mentor looked back to Dany. "Tell you what cub, you can come to their trainings some time, will give you a good picture of what training your brother went through, and if you want to know more about your family, I'd gladly tell you."
Dany's eyes widened with joy, "Truly?"
He wiped stains from his mouth with his hand, "Aye, it's a nice getaway from all the serious stuff."
Dany felt her heart soared, she has only been here for a day and the Starks are already welcoming her. They are all so kind she'll have to get used to it.
Well…. not all.
After they finished their food, she noticed Jon have not returned at all. She looked around for any signs of him and found none. "Where is Jon?"
Robb drank, but he didn't look at Dany and stayed silent for a while. The moment he did that, she knew something is up, "Is there something wrong?"
He sighed and he put his elbows on the table heavily, "Look behind you, do you see a middle-aged woman with black hair and a redhead hair lady at the very far corner?"
She did as he told her, searching. Then she found them, eating together happily. "Yes."
"That is my lady mother, Catelyn Stark, and sister, Sansa Stark."
"Alright." Not understanding where this is going.
"They…she is the one who ordered Jon to stay out of the hall if they are here. Sansa followed along."
As he said that, she felt like her heart sank. Not the whole Stark family accepts me. She remembered his words, the sad eyes that looked at her and at the horizon when he told her, as if longing for acceptance. Just like her.
"It's cruel, yes. But it was her order because of my father." Robb explained. "He brought home a babe that he sired with another woman, mother was close to kill Jon when she knew, but they each made agreements to let him stay." He then looked past Dany to observe them, "This is one of them."
Dany felt as if she is going to regurgitate, she drank her water and slowly stood up. "Thank you for bringing here, I think I'd like to go now."
He nodded and stood up as well. "Me too, come, I'll take you to him." Dany looked at him, her eyes widened as he knew his guess of her intention of leaving the hall. But he only chuckled. "He did told father that he would take care of you, so I'll drop you to him before I have to leave to help Ser Rodrik."
Dany smiled, relieved that he didn't think of it another way. "Thank you."
Robb nodded again before turning to his mentor, "I'll be back later, old man."
Ser Rodrik gulped his wine, "Fine. More food for me then." He stood up again carrying his plate and headed to load some more food. The two cubs then left the hall, but Dany managed to swipe a loaf of bread and hid it in her pocket dress. She thought Jon might be hungry.
When they exited the dining hall, Robb turned to Dany, "Do you have a clue where he may have gone to?"
She thought for a moment, "He told me that he is going to give his reports to Benjen."
He nodded, "Alright, follow me then. I think I know where he's headed to."
They found, not only Jon but Benjen as well outside their uncle's hut at the open field where Jon first brought Dany to. They have shifted to their respective forms and it looks like they are sparring, Jon's direwolf form is taller, but their uncle's muscles look bigger. Robb and Dany watched them from the entrance of the hut.
The white direwolf was pinned down by the black panther, his paws pressed his throat, hissing at him. But the wolf swatted its paws at his jaws and managed to throw him off him, giving him time to get back up again.
"Come on, Ghost." Robb murmured. "Show Uncle Benjen what you've got."
Dany quirked an eyebrow when she heard him, "Ghost?"
"Oh, it's Jon. Some of us give ourselves nicknames in our forms, it helps us stay focus in our shifting." He explained. "For me, it's Grey Wind or The Young Wolf. Some of the pack members called me Grey Wind, others called me The Young Wolf. But I prefer Grey Wind."
"I see," she hummed. "I guess I am known as the Dragon cub even when I can't shift."
Robb chuckled, "Don't worry about it, you'll be just fine amongst us. Let's watch them."
Dany smiled, and observed the fighting shifters.
Ghost's blood-red eyes narrowed to the black panther, he circled and observed him carefully. It wasn't long before the panther pounced at him, claws extended and jaws opened wide, baring his teeth. Ghost dodged the attack, as soon as his uncle landed, he, in turn, pounced at him. But Benjen was quick to react and they ended up grappling and snarling at one another on their hind legs, trying to sink their teeth in their neck. But Ghost, being taller than the panther, managed to push him away and pounced at him again. The white wolf is trying desperately to pin him down, but the panther clawed his legs and managed to swat his jaws, making Ghost backing off again. The White Wolf became frustrated and charged at him again, ramming the panther off the ground.
"Impressive, aren't they?" Robb softly whistled.
"Yes, is this how you all trained?" Dany asked, curious about how the Starks sparred because they look like they are killing each other instead.
He placed his hand on his chin, "Sometimes we do, but not this intense though."
"What?"
"Usually we train with the wolves, friendly sparring, the one who wins is the one who managed to pin their snout down." He explained. "But this one looks like the one who wins is if one managed to pin the other down on their neck with their jaws."
She gasped and looked at him in horror, "But that's how killing works."
"Aye, this is another level of training. So far, Uncle Benjen told me that among all of us training, Jon….or should I say, Ghost, is the only one who managed to train so much this intense."
She gulped, is this why Lord Stark wanted her to watch over him? "But why would he do that?"
"To be stronger, of course. He is always the most hardworking amongst us, always trying to prove himself worthy." He smiled, "I guess it's because he didn't want anyone to just see him as a bastard.
Dany looked down sadly, it seems that she isn't the only one trying to prove to the world. She then resumed observing the spar.
Ghost had the panther pinned down on his side, as he struggled under his paws, the wolf sank his teeth on his paws. The panther yelped in pain.
As she witnessed the pain that the panther received, she couldn't help but scream in horror.
The White Wolf's ear perked up, he looked towards the source, and his grey eyes found Dany's violet eyes. She looked terrified, backing away from someone whom he realized is Robb. His brother held her back, looking at her with concern, but she continued to stare at him.
As the human in Ghost stared at her, afraid what she might think of him as he trained savagely with his Uncle, he felt his foe managed to slip out of his paw. The panther rolled away from him, then with all his might, he pounced at the wolf by the neck. He successfully pinned Ghost's head down, the wolf struggled, but the panther sank his teeth on his neck, but he didn't pierce it.
YIELD! He heard his uncle growled, he felt the panther's claws weighing him down at the side of his face, his teeth are close to stabbing open his neck as if ready to tear him apart.
Ghost had no choice, he stopped struggling. I yield.
The black panther huffed and released his vice grips, backing away from him. Ghost grunted and growled, he got on his paws and shook himself, shaking the dirt and soil tainted on him.
Benjen did the same before he shifted to his human self, "What did I tell you before, Jon? Don't let your guard down."
Ghost heavily padded towards him, his lips still curling in frustration. I almost had you.
His uncle crossed his arms, "And you would have." Then he turned back to see Dany and Robb a few feet behind them, Benjen smiled at them. "Thanks to our new pack member, I win."
Dany felt embarrassed, her reaction turned out to be a distraction. She shyly placed her hand on her arm and looked down, Robb patted her shoulder, "It's alright, Dany. It must've been your first time seeing such training isn't it?" She nodded. "Don't worry, it's not like anyone died here. Besides, Jon needs to stop these trainings." He turned to the direwolf and Uncle Benjen as they walked towards them. "Isn't that right, brother?"
Ghost shifted to his human form. "Depending on the question." Jon then turned to Dany, "Are you alright, Dany?"
She looked at him and nodded, still shocked after witnessing the intense spar and embarrassed for what she did.
Robb luckily answered for her, "Don't worry, brother. Our new member just witnessed her first savage fight, which you shouldn't be doing too often, Jon." He crossed his arm, quirking an eyebrow at him. "When was the last time you had this savage training with Uncle?"
Jon fell silent for a while, his ducked his head and ran his fingers on his hair. "Well…three days ago."
His brother sighed, then he turned to their uncle. "Uncle, I think we need to stop this for a while."
Uncle Benjen scratched his bearded chin, "Well, if the Dragon cub isn't used to this yet then we'll have to pause this kind of training first."
Jon stared at him in horror. "What?"
"Jon, you and I have done this training a lot of times. You have done well, take a break, Wolf cub. It's good for you, we don't have to come back with scars all the time." Then he turned to Dany and grinned, "You don't want to look bad in front of Lady Daenerys, don't you?"
Jon coughed, Dany's cheeks turned red, then she looked away.
Uncle Benjen then walked towards her, giving her a warm smile. "Hello there, Lady Daenerys. Sorry you had to witness us like that, it's Jon's way to calm himself down apparently." He laughed, then he stretched his hand out to her, "I'm Benjen, ranger of the Night's Watch and trainer of these insufferable wolf cubs."
Both brothers groaned, "Hey…"
Dany giggled, feeling the shock she had earlier diminished with the warm welcome she received again. She took his hand, "Hello, Ser Benjen. It's a pleasure to meet you. Thank you for speaking for me yesterday."
He chuckled. "My pleasure as well, and don't worry about yesterday. If Jon brought you here, then I suppose he knows that he is protecting a good person, didn't you my boy?" He nudged his nephew, Jon only looked away shyly. "Right, since the three of you are here, why don't you all sit there under the tree, I'd like to discuss a few things with you all. Wait there, I'll get us something to drink." He waved them to the tree near his hut.
As the three cubs sat on the shadows forming a circle, Robb turned to Jon with, resting his elbow on his knees and his head resting on his hand. "So, what happened to 'giving morning report?'"
Jon shrugged, "Waiting for you all to finish eating, thought to do something with Uncle Benjen."
"By doing those trainings again?"
He shrugged again, "Why not? It's a good way to improve my skills."
"We are not going to war, Jon."
"Well, you never know. You saw those lions."
"Father can manage them." he retorted back. "You saw how they backed away without a fight."
Jon lowered his head, holding his hand, "I suppose so. Still….."
Dany knew he was hiding something other than the lions, he did mention that he sparred like this before they even met. But she didn't want to bring it up yet, so she tries to break the tension, "Are there other trainings aside sparing that you all do?"
Jon immediately perked his head up, his grey eyes faded the fire in it. "Well, there's the running and the books we have to learn with the maesters."
"Aye, and Jon is good at 'running' away from the 'books'." Robb grinned at him.
Jon frowned, he picked up a stone and lightly threw it at him, which he managed to block by raising his arm. Dany giggled at their exchange, Jon's frown suddenly turned into a smile as he saw her. His frustration of defeat seems to fade, replaced by a warmth in his heart.
Grass crunching made the three of them search for the approaching source, revealing to be Benjen with a tray of four glasses. He sat between Robb and Dany, "There you all go. Help yourself, don't worry it's not wine, just water." He offered them all as they respectively took one.
The four of them drank, then Benjen went to the point. "Anyway," he set his cup down on the tray, "As you may know, Daenerys here is new and probably the whole Westoros have not heard the existence of a dragon for decades yet. So, here is what will change now."
He looked at Robb, "Robb, from now on, you scout the towns and cities. Take Theon and the other packs with you, but not Jon. Report whatever meetings and reports you have, Jon will cover the North areas. As a prince, you will need to build good relationships among your people and know your men. Understood?"
Robb nodded, "Aye, Uncle."
"Good," Then he turned to Jon. "Jon, you volunteered yourself that you will take care of Daenerys. So, no more talks about joining the Night's Watch, and only scout the North. The stunt you pulled at the lions was enough to piss them off, so stay away from the South. Understood?"
Jon nodded, "Crystal clear."
Did she hear that right? Jon wanted to join the Night's Watch?
"There will be times I will have both of you have your patrols together, but for now, I'd like to Robb to learn on his own first. It's what alphas would do." Benjen remarked, then he turned to Dany. "Daenerys, as you may know, not everyone is fond of the dragons as we do. Therefore, I am forbidding you from leaving Winterfell and entering towns, cities, or villages."
Dany slowly nodded, they had taken her in so she may as well obey whatever they asked for of her.
But Jon felt horrified at the idea of her not leaving the castle. "Forbid to leave Winterfell? Are we imprisoning her?"
"No, Jon. It's just for the time being until we know things are well for Westeros to have her around. By now, words should already spread that Daenerys is in Winterfell thanks to the Lannisters, we'll see how they react, especially King Robert."
The mention of the Stag King brought shivers down Dany's spine. How indeed will he react to her?
But Benjen didn't look too concerned about that, "Don't worry, we have the whole pack to protect Daenerys. They just need time to adjust having you around, child." He smiled at her. "I am sorry you may feel locked up here, but it's for the best.
"However, whenever Jon is in his patrol to the North, you will go with him so he can still keep an eye on you." Dany silently felt happy that he's allowing him to stay by her side, then Benjen continued, "Lord Stark mentioned that you will have your lessons with Arya and Bran from now on, but that won't be in the morning. In the meantime, you will learn the ways of the wolves with Jon or Robb or both. Preferably, Jon should do the task since he was the one who helped you, but I am sure Robb can help Jon with that as well."
Jon and Robb nodded, "Not a problem, uncle." Robb agreed.
"Excellent." He stated, then he patted Dany's shoulder. "Well then, Daenerys Targaryen, welcome to Winterfell. I hope you will like it here, you may find some of us are complete arses, but we all protect one another no matter what."
They all laughed at his remark, Dany haven't felt like this for such a long time. Safety, comfort, and…dare she say…family?
"Right, I am starving from all the sparring with Jon, trying to make him sit is like trying to make Arya be quiet and be a lady."
Jon frowned, "Hey…."
Benjen laughed, "Just a joke, my boy." He stood up, "I…. am going to the dining hall. Anyone care to join me?"
Robb followed Benjen, "I'll join, I left Ser Rodrik there. Going to need to bring him back to help assign his new lessons to the new recruits."
Benjen turned to the ones who are still sitting, "Jon? Daenerys?"
Jon shook his head, "I'll stay here until Lady Catelyn is out of the Dining Hall."
Benjen understandably nodded at him, then he turned to Dany. But Dany didn't feel like it to be in a room who ordered her savior to leave in her presence. "I have eaten with Robb and Ser Rodrik, thank you. I'll stay with Jon."
Jon turned to meet her, she looked at him as well, they both smiled.
He quirked an eyebrow up but nodded, "Alright, I'll come back for you when the Lady is done. Until then, see you both later." He smiled and left.
Robb followed, "Bye Jon, Dany." He waved at them and walked beside his uncle.
When they both are far ahead already, Jon decided to speak. "I suppose, Robb told you why I didn't join you all before."
Dany turned to him and nodded sadly, "Yes, it's awful to hear it. I'm sorry."
He chuckled, "Don't worry, that's how she is to me. I got used to it."
"But it's not your fault."
He sighed, "It doesn't matter. It's just like what Theon said." He smiled at her, trying to cover the sadness and pity she felt for him. Although it's nice for someone to worry of him, but he prefers no one should worry of him. "I am a bastard, Dany. It's something I have to get used to."
But Dany isn't going to let him think lowly of himself, not after how he fought so hard to save her. "Is that why you trained so intense with your Uncle like that?"
He fell silent, not looking at her. At that moment, she knew she was right. "Jon, being a bastard doesn't mean you have to throw yourself in harm's way."
"Who says I am?"
"Your training does, it scares me, Jon You could have gotten yourself hurt." She told him in concern.
He stayed silent again, looking at the far distance. She knew he was doubting himself again.
She sighed, he is just not getting it. Then she thought of another tactic, she scooted closer to him and placed her hand on his on the ground, "Jon, I too know what it feels like. For nobody to want you."
That caught his attention, he then turned to her. He never thought of someone having the same experience as him.
Dany smiled at him, "I am really glad that it was you who found me, Jon." She then fished the bread she took from the hall out of her pocket and handed it to him. "Here. I suppose you were hungry, after all the patrolling and training you had to do."
Jon looked at the bread in her hand and took it. He smiled at her, making her stomach flip. "Thank you, Dany."
She smiled at him, then she looked at the horizon, watching the sunset, together with Jon as he ate the bread.
From a far distance, Ned Stark observed the cubs in his wolf form. Thanks to his form, he was able to hear both of their exchange from far. He huffed sadly and padded away into the castle.
I hope it's not too long, please let me know what you think ^^ Till next time!
-Claire