Sorry for the long wait, I've been trying to figure out how this chapter would go. Of course, Jon and Dany's lives changed forever, but this time, not in rush on being anything. At this point, Jon is having a semi-midlife crisis or unsure what to do in the future where they don't know what to do in their lives. So, it's a bit similar to what we experience today, only they had to reciprocate the fact that everything they believed in changed a lot. But of course, Ser Barristan would still want them to be leaders. Well, we all do, do we?

There's always this rush culture we are living in. We gotta get things to figure out, future stuff, yadadadada. But how do we do that when we don't know how to live? Jon is having those things as well.

I tried to put mood boards but not sure how they work. Let me know though.

That said, enjoy

The Old Knight was watching them from afar, right at the house entrance, how they calmed each other down and healed. He had never seen such dedicated love, not even from the royalties he had served for a long time. Most would do it for a political marriage, but for Jon and Daenerys…

He hates that he had to be the one who tells them both that they are destined to be King and Queen of Westeros. They had been treated as nothing but livestock since their own birth. And for them to have to carry the burden of ruling an entire country must've been very overwhelming. Damn you, Starks.

But then again, both cubs may be the only hope for Westeros. After all….

They are something that Westeros had never seen before. And Westeros need them.

As he pondered on this, he didn't realize Jon is nearing, with Daenerys in his arms. They both looked content and calm, save for the Dragon cub's face. The lion's eyes can see that she cried not long ago, as there is crimson in her eyes.

At the sight of the old lion, Dany said something to Jon, and he gently let her down on her feet. The Dragon cub then tangled her hand with his and looked at Ser Barristan.

Ser Barristan wanted to say something, but he didn't know what to say. For he too felt guilty on the state that they had to deal with, the pressure of ruling a kingdom, let alone a country that despises them, is….

"Ser Barristan," Jon calmly called to him, breaking Ser Barristan's train of thoughts. His tone made him nervous, is this the awakening of Jon's dragon side? Or was it his guilt taking the best of him? "We'll talk about it in the morrow, there's a lot that Dany and I need to discuss."

He nodded, "I understand."

"Thank you for telling us the truth," Dany gently said with a smile, and it looked genuine and honest, "Is there anything else that we must know?"

He shook his head, "I've told you everything I know."

The couples nodded, and they left the old knight alone without saying anything else. Ser Barristan could only sigh and go back to his own room, wondering what they must do until the day they can return to Westeros.

Jon is staring out the night sky, the stars and moon hung high, illuminating the dark, night creatures chirped the quiet midnight. He let his mind wander elsewhere as he sat on the bed while Dany slept peacefully. He couldn't sleep, not after what he had to hear.

There are so many things in his mind that he needs to see something else for him to articulate his thoughts, no one is here to help guide his way now. It's a strange feeling to have…... embarking on a new life without a plan or goal.

The last time he did this was with Dany, just the day before the Running. At that time, he hoped that things would turn out better for them both in the pack, going as his plan. To be accepted in the pack, to prove his honor even though he is a bastard.

Now, there is perhaps a different kind of hope mixed with doubt. His plans were all shattered, he doesn't know what to do now. Sure, he can re-establish himself here, start everything as a new. But as what? Are there any packs here that he can join? What must he do to adapt? What must he be? Who is he?

And to be a King? No, that's absurd. He can't be one, not to a place where everyone despises him. Robb is the King, he has everything he needs to be one, an army, a castle, people who support him..….. Jon doesn't have any of those. He's a rogue, alongside Dany.

The white wolf let out a sigh….. who is he now? So many things changed, perhaps everything. He does felt himself changing, no longer feeling like the young green cub he once was. For the very first time in his life, he doesn't know what to do or what to be. Going back isn't an option, if he does, all his father's efforts will go down to waste. The only thing he can do is lay low until things get better.

If they even can get any better.

How long must he lay low? When can he join the war with the Star packs? When can things go back to the way it was?

What would his Mother and Father do? What would they think of him? What would they want him to be?

"Jon?"

His mate's voice shattered his uneasy mind. He turned to find Dany sitting up, eyes wondering to his. Her pale skin softly glowing in the soft light of the moon, hair gently waving down her shoulders. Even with her lose braids, she is still the most beautiful lady he had ever laid his eyes upon.

He softly smiled at her, "Feeling better?" remembering how she suddenly fell back at the beach just hours ago.

She nodded and crawled to his side, her head pressed on his muscular shoulder, and she sighed, "Why are you still up, my love?"

Jon kissed the top of her head, "I was…emm…. Seeking council from the Great Kings," his tone went a little off, hoping that she understands what he meant, hoping it doesn't sound ridiculous. His eyes looked back up the sky, he must thank the Magister that the room he picked has quite a view from the bed to peek out the window.

"Did they help?" her violet eyes searching his, her voice was sincere and there wasn't any hint of sarcasm.

He sighed, "Silent as the stars they are."

"What were you seeking council about, my King?" Dany softly asked.

He chuckled, loving the tease she is giving him even though he doesn't want that title. Then he went back to her question, "I'm not certain what we must do now," he confessed, "or to be…I suppose that's why I am a little…. Well…. confused to this new environment, this new life. I am used to be given orders by Lord Alpha Stark, so being free now… free from any orders or pack or even any clans..….it's a little strange to me. To be what I want to be," he has always been used to following orders and obey, commanding is not what he is used to, "So, I was hoping, my real mother and father, would give me a small sign or hint….." he stuttered a bit, looking down, "Sorry, I'm being ridiculous."

Never in any moment did Dany judge him for that, that made his heart hers. She only wrapped her arms around his a little tighter, "Oh, my Jon," she hummed, "you want so much to walk the path expected of you," she pointed out as she nuzzled into his arm, "But your parents didn't." This made him turn to her, his mate smiled at him, "Your father and mother followed their heart, just as much as you did when you found me. And here we are now," kissing his cheek, his mate continues, "You don't have to figure out now, but….. let's live at the moment," she suggested, "We'll find out together, on what to do here, and what we want to become. I'll be with you all the way."

Her words gave him comfort, chasing away his anxieties. Dany had come all the way here to be his support now, giving him the strength, he needs to move on, to keep him sane, and to keep going. He squeezes her arm, "Are you not at all terrified of what's to come?" Of course not, she's a dragon.

Dany looked up for a while, "I admit, I am a little concerned about this new life," she said before meeting his eyes, "Before I met you all, I was always worried if I could ever survive the next day or the day after. I always wondered when I will finally meet my end since I was always alone," her hand ran to her arm, comforting herself, Jon immediately pulled her into his arms. She continues, "and when will Viserys finally snap and kill me," He cringed at the thought of her all alone and terrified in the streets of Westeros, looking over her shoulders wondering if Robert's assassins found her, "But then, you found me, accepted me into your pack, I wasn't treated the way Viserys did to me, your siblings accepted me, I have a family, and a mate," she smiled at the last part.

Jon realized that she is talking about her survival before he met her. Dany had been all alone back then, and she had to adapt to being a part of a pack of wolves, something other than her species. A dragon among wolves. He realized that she had been through changes, it's no wonder she isn't as worried as he is.

She then brushes her fingers along his stubble, "I was able to be part of the pack because of your guidance, Jon. You've helped me see, embrace the unknown, so I'm certain you can find ways to be in this new life."

Unconsciously, Jon wrapped her in his arms, taking her all in. Dany isn't the type of person to talk a lot, but when she does, it's something he never thought he needed to hear. He kisses her temple, "Sometimes, I don't even know what I'm doing," he murmured.

"We'll figure it out together, and I know you will. You always have," she said to him, "you don't have to walk the path your father did, no matter which road you take, I will be with you all the way. But right now, you can be my mate, my husband."

That title does have a good ring into it, "Aye," he kissed her lips, "To be your husband, my wife."

She smiled, "I would like that very much," and she tucked her head under his chin, where she will always belong, "Are you less worried now?"

"Aye," he confirmed, her words were quite encouraging, "I feel a little less lost."

"We can start going to bed," she giggled, "It's quite late already, and we need to speak with Ser Barristan tomorrow."

"Aye," he agreed, his eyes have become heavier now. The worries of what to do for his future have slowly lifted off his shoulders. He'll figure out what the morrow will come, for now, he wants to live.

Dany pulled his hand, bringing him to lay on the bed with her. Jon followed and wrapped her in his arms as they both fall asleep peacefully.

Ser Barristan wasn't there when they break their fast. They saw him speaking to Ilyrio at his garden, discussing something, which Jon doesn't think he wants to know. As far as he knows, Ilyrio only wants the money. Otherwise, why would he want to keep them?

This makes him think that…..perhaps he should work for him. Or somewhat pay him so that he and Dany can live here, as a payment of gratitude. He'll discuss this with Ser Barristan later on.

Eating here is a little more comfortable than in Winterfell. For one, no one is there to judge his presence, and it's not a huge table like back at home where the dining hall could get crowded any minute. It's just…. simple. He liked it.

After they broke their fast of bread, cheeses, and bacon, they went to speak to Ser Barristan, who has just finished speaking to the Magister. At the sight of Jon and Dany, the fat man bowed at them and left without any question.

"What was that all about?" Jon asked.

"He was just telling me his schedule today, should we want to find him," Ser Barristan said as he walked back inside and sat on the couch. The cubs followed behind, sitting across him, "His business has been a little slow as of late, so he'll be a little occupied today," he leaned him back on the cushions, "And I'm going to help inspect a little right after I check the town a bit."

"You mean to scout?" Dany asked.

"Not scouting per se," he sat up a bit, "More to what's in town, just to observe what's going on there. I will be leaving with Varys later on for him to guide me, the last time I was here, it was as a new person in town on his own. This time, someone is to guide me on their culture. That way, we can blend in without raising any suspicions," then his eyes looked at them, "Would you like to join me?"

Jon and Dany turned to each other, he certainly needed to. They all need to. "I would, I think we both need to," he answered. He was just worried about this last night, and it seems that the Great Kings had given him a sign.

Ser Barristan nodded, "From the last I saw, it wasn't much difference with Winterfell…..well, depending on how you both see it. Unlike Westeros, the locals here have different shifters, so don't stare at them for too long."

The cubs nodded, "Understandable."

The old knight grunted, "Alright," he shifted where he sat as well, "So, have you decided what I told you yesterday?"

Jon nodded, "It's still too early to think otherwise on what is to come," he said, "I still stand by that I don't want to be King," Ser Barristan's face still looks unfazed, he continues, "But I wouldn't want to be unprepared should the pack needs me."

He nodded, "And I will train you the best I can," then he turned to Dany, "And what of you, young Daenerys?"

She too nodded and held her mate's hand, "I don't know what I can, but I'll give it a try."

"Good," he smiled, "I am sorry that you both need to go far away, and believe that there won't be much danger, but I would prefer that you both are prepared."

"What would you train us to do?" Jon asked.

"I never doubt that you could run fast," Ser Barristan said, indicating the Running test, which made Jon cringe at the memory of his failure. But the old knight must've been able to sense his discomfort, "I would prefer if you still practiced that, but I'd like to see your skills."

Jon kneaded his brows, "you mean to fight you?"

"Hmm, I admit that you form may be able to defeat mine. I am speaking about your sword skills," he said, "You were given a sword by Maester Aemon, best you put it to use."

"And, you want me to spar with you?" Jon asked in disbelief.

The Old Lion smirked, "These old bones aren't half as bad as you think," he chuckled, "Would you like to give one a go?"

Jon hesitated, unsure about his offer. While he had trained in his form before, he had done combat training with Robb. Don't let your guard down. His uncle and Ser Rodrick's advice still rings in him. But it won't hurt to know his new mentor, right? "Maybe a quick one?"

"Alright," Ser Barristan stood up, "Come with me outside, both of you."

"You don't want to use swords?"

"Just a quick one, no?" Ser Barristan pointed out, "There are fallen branches here that we can use as an alternative."

"I see."

"Now come, let's give one try, and we'll go to the town after," the old knight walked outside to the garden where it also leads to the beach. Jon and Dany followed him, wondering what the old lion has up his sleeve.

Ser Barristan scanned around the lush greens that have several fallen branches, inspecting which could be a suitable practice sword. Then his eyes found two under the tree, two long naked branches at the size of an arm. He went back to Jon and Dany who is waiting at the center, which he assumed is going to be their training grounds at the moment, "Now, let's see your skills," he handed him a branch and stepped back a few feet away, twirling his branch, he calmly readied his stance. Dany saw that the training is about to start, and she walked back further away from Jon and Ser Barristan.

Jon pursed his lips, this man means business, but is her serious? "You know this won't be fair to you, right? I trained with Robb and Theon."

The old man held his hand up, "Humor me."

The White Wolf accepted his challenge, wanting to show how good he is. He raised his branch up, lunged at him, going after his head. He expected Ser Barristan to sidestep but didn't expect that he would hit his chest and the back of his thigh with such a quick speed, making Jon fall on his knees.

"Oh dear, I see the effect of your fighting," Ser Barristan said with a small hint of sarcasm, but he didn't mean any offense.

He's good, Jon thought. Perhaps he shouldn't have underestimated the old knight, but at the same time, this is only a practice, right? He didn't want to hurt the old knight as well…..

Jon looked back from his shoulder and swung his 'sword' to the right. The Old Knight blocked the attack with his 'sword' he was about to attack Jon until the White Wolf quickly turned his and used the back of the branch and hit his shoulder, staggering the Old Knight back. "Good," Ser Barristan was impressed, grinning at him while he petted his own shoulder, easing the pain. This strokes up Jon's ego, "Good."

Jon swung his 'sword' again, wanting to disarm the old man. But the Knight was thinking the same thing but in a different way. As he blocked the attack, he let Jon's weight take the best of him as he stepped aside, making Jon tumbling off his feet. This gave Ser Barristan a chance, poking his back multiple times, as if annoying him until he fell back on his back, "Don't get over-confident."

This time, his emotion gets the better of him. Jon gets back up on his feet fast and lunged at him, swinging his sword, to which Ser Barristan blocked again. But Jon isn't going to let him hold back, he swung again, aiming at his footings but missed by an inch, making him frustrated. He swung again to hit his chest, still striding forward, wanting to get him to tumble off the stairs. But Ser Barristan blocked it by holding his 'sword' vertically, but Jon didn't realize his mistake that he was too close to the Old Lion. Ser Barristan grabbed his arm firmly and pulled him off his ground, nearly falling off the two steps stairs as he nearly lost his footing. Dany yelped at the sight of Jon nearly falling off.

But Ser Barristan held onto his arm firmly. But at the same time, he held the near end of his branch and pointed his 'sword' on Jon's chest. Checkmate. Jon's eyes flew wide in disbelief, panting from the shock or defeat, he can't tell. Ser Jaime truly chose his knight well to protect them.

"It won't be your cousin Robb or Theon you will be fighting nor wooden branches in the future," Ser Barristan said calmly, hardly breaking a sweat, "From this day on, your training will intensify. To a true warrior." Ser Barristan let the young lad take in what he said before pulling him up to his feet.

Jon was still in awe of the skills the old man still has, all this time, his training wasn't as challenging as this. Ser Rodrik and Uncle Benjen still train them in sword fighting, but it wasn't as serious as this. Back then, it was just training. Now…. It is training face to face with a Kingsguard. Jon wondered what Robb would think of this.

"We'll continue this in the morrow," Ser Barristan said, as he walked back to where Dany is watching them, "Right after your lady's form training that is," he turned to face Dany.

She swallowed a lump in her throat at the mention of her very first physical training. She had never done this before, but willing to try. After all, she was given the gifts to shift. She wants to put it to good use.

Ser Barristan looked at her seriously with sincerity, "Are you ready, cub?"

Dany pursed her lips, and nodded nervously, "I am."

"I'm sure you are," he said with confidence, "After all, you were able to fight the Lions off on your first try," he chuckled. Dany smiled at the compliment, happy that someone would want to see the best of her. "Come along now, or we are going to be late for our little travel with the vulture." He walked ahead, letting the cubs follow him behind. He threw his branch at the side.

Jon dropped the branch and walked hand in hand with Dany, "I could've beaten him," he murmured irritatingly, "I just didn't want to hurt the old man."

Dany giggled at small frustration, wrapping her arm in his, "Of course, you did." Jon teasingly glared at her, giving her a pout. Dany used that opportunity to kiss his lips, turning the frown upside down, "You will next."

He softly laughed, "I'll see to it."

The four of them ventured into the town of Pentos. It was truly very more humid than Westeros, thank goodness for the short sleeves that they were provided. Jon will have to take note to get some more Essosi clothing for them both.

This place is just too hot.

As they toured around the city, Jon couldn't help but feel in awe to be in a new town other than Winterfell or even Westeros itself. This place is an entirely new place, nothing on them seems to be anything to do with Westeros. It's pure Essosi. The ground, the houses, the markets, merchants, the food, everything. Even the buyers around here are frenzy, they'd go for anything.

In fact, the town is a whole lot livelier than he had ever seen. The shifters themselves are mixed with so many of them. There are cheetahs, Bengal lions, dogs, horses, and even the mixed shifters like the fauns and centaurs! What a town! He could enjoy this.

Dany herself is so immersed in this new town. Unlike in Westeros where she worries if people would judge her for being a Targaryen (and possibly kill her), she didn't feel like she had to worry here. For the people minded their own business and they really minded their own business. She could really start a new life here.

For half of the day, Varys showed them around town. It was pleasant and it's as if the thought of war wasn't even there. It was all peaceful and lively.

Until they came across an herd of slave laborers.

As they passed by the docks, looking at the market filled with fish, there was one huge ship that docked. Out of it came people chained in a line, all looking down and sad. Dany couldn't help but not look away as they were being dragged somewhere. Making things worst, there were a couple of people with whips, cracking them. One of the slaves took the blow, he gritted his teeth and held on. Dany's heart sank at the sight of them chained and forced into possible labor. Their collars seem to mark so.

She then felt Jon's arm wrapping around her, pulling her another way, "Look away, love," he softly whispered to her. Dany swallowed and nod, obeying. But her eyes look back to the sad slaves, she could feel their fear. "Come on, Dany. Varys is leading us elsewhere."

At that moment, something inside her seems to spark. She's unsure what it was but that sight ignited something in her, waiting to grow.

When they got inside their carriage, heading back home, Dany couldn't help but ask.

"Lord Varys?"

"Yes, my Lady?" The vulture hummed.

"Those slaves, what are they for?"

"Forced labors, soldiers, you name it," he said, "It's quite common here."

"It's horrible," she looked at the window, recalling the sight at the docks, "I thought Essos would be a lot more different than Westeros." Jon instantly sat closer to her, holding her hand and squeezing her hand. Giving the comfort she needs. He knows that had he not accept her all those seasons ago, there could be a likely chance that she could end up like them.

The bold man sat back, "You get treated like a dumb animal for a long time, that's what you become," he huffed, "You might find Essos a more savage place than you remember."

The cubs didn't respond to that and stayed silent. Perhaps not all places are perfect after all.

When they arrived back at Illyrio's house, having lunch together, Jon noticed Dany's silence. Back at Winterfell, she would light up at the sight of a lively town. Jon had accompanied her many times over the seasons just to get out of the castle some time, and she'd come back happy.

The sight of the slaves must've taken a toll on her.

After eating, Jon excused themselves out of the house, pulling Dany with him, "Where are we going?"

Jon didn't answer. He first walked into the kitchen, looking for anything sharp, and found one hanging. A small dagger. He took it and led them out of the house, towards the beach. But he stopped before they could even step on the sand, only standing on the lush green grass.

"Jon, what's the knife for?"

He turned towards her, handing the dagger to her, "Hold it for me?"

She didn't ask why and took it from him. Then, he shifted to Ghost, surprising Dany. He shifted faster than he used to. His blood-red eyes then looked at her, The weather here is not appropriate for my form, he explained, I need your help to cut my fur.

She blinked, "You want me to cut your fur?"

The White Wolf nodded, It's for the best.

Dany looked at the dagger, looking skeptical, "I'm not so sure about using one."

Don't worry, he said, All you have to do is take a few of it and cut it, not skin me, she still didn't look convinced. Ghost huffed, I'll let you know if I don't feel like you are doing it right.

"Alright," she finally said and stood closer to him. Ghost can feel her gently collecting the fur on his neck in her hands, and gently cut them away. A few furs dropped to the ground, and she continued.

Not bad, eh?

"It's strange," she said, "I've never done this before."

Me neither, he said, We never cut our own fur since the North is always cold. But given that we live in a place where there may be no snow at all, I'm going to need to cut them.

"I see," Dany hummed, "Don't wolves shed?"

I can't wait that long, he snorted, earning a giggle from her, I can't even stand it without shifting, let alone in this form.

"Alright," she laughed, "But this is a lot of fur."

The more reason we can just stay here, he panted teasingly, I can finally have a rest without having to train now.

"Ser Barristan is expecting you though," she noted.

Right after yours, that is.

Dany scoffed, bunching another fur at his back and slicing it, "I think my training would be very fast. I don't know how to fight."

There's always a first time, he encouraged her, I'll be there to help you.

Ghost felt her kissing his furry cheek, "Thank you, my love," then she went back continuing to trim the wolf, "But I hardly remember how to shift, perhaps it could only happen when Melisandre is around?"

Hmm, hard to say. But she did say she unlocked whatever is in you so that you can finally be able to turn, he then snorted, I hate to say this, but we actually may need her. All her riddles are so confusing.

"She was only helping us," she said, trimming the other side, "I'm sure we can find a way on our own now. After all, she comes and goes."

Aye, we can't rely on her, he agreed, turning his head back to the beach, We're on our own now.

"Hmm," Dany agreed and continued to trim his fur in silence. Not saying anything else.

Do you want me to lie down so that you can rest your legs?

"That would be nice," she answered. Ghost obliged and quickly lie on his side, letting Dany help him with ease. But as he lied down, so did she, the dagger on the floor and her arms spread on the side of his stomach, "This is nice."

Ghost panted in delight, reaching back to nose her head, You have a task you accepted to do.

She groaned and buried deeper into his half-trimmed fur, "I'm going to miss your fur."

It's not like it's not going to grow, Dany.

"I know," she breathes in his scent, "But I love your fur. It's so soft and warm."

Well, if you keep doing that, I'm going to feel too hot as well. This place is too warm and I don't need anything else to keep me warm.

She giggled, "Alright," then she sat up and continued trimming his fur, "I wish I can use your fur for the night."

That would mean skinning me, Dany.

Dany couldn't help but laugh, "Right, I wouldn't ask that of you."

Besides, I don't think I've seen any wolf around here, he noted, The local people here are new, and their forms are something I've never seen before, and he's afraid his wolf form will raise suspicion as a new shifter arrive. He wouldn't want that, so cutting his fur to blend in with the other dogs could help.

"And I've never seen slaveries here," Dany softly whispered.

Ghost turned to look at her, he noticed her face fell while she bunched his other furs at his back. Aye, there were many of them.

She nodded, still not willing to look anywhere but Ghost's now short white fur on his belly, "And they were treated so badly. To think I could've been off them…."

The wolf immediately turned his side so that his head is on her shoulder, stopping her trimming for a while, Hey, I won't let that happen. I promise you.

Dany couldn't help but hug his neck, "I know you wouldn't," she croaked, "But those people who weren't as lucky as I am…..they had to suffer."

Ghost couldn't say anything but envelope her into his body, comforting her as best as he can. She doesn't seem to be crying, for he couldn't feel anything wet on him. But he could feel that she pitied the people who weren't as lucky as she is, thinking that she could've been there had he not found her all those years ago. Ghost is thankful for his Uncle Ned as well, that even though he was raised as a bastard, there was never a moment he undermined him. He raised him as his own, a part of the pack.

And to think that Dany, someone who should have been a princess could've been sold to slavery just like that is horrifying. How could anyone want to do such a thing to her? He wondered how long she had lived in fear without giving up living before he found her, it must've been a lonely journey. Dealing with hunger, fear, and mistrust is something he had never been through but her. It's no wonder she was so optimistic the last night, he came to realize that she has appreciated the life she's in even though people undermine her the day the pack accepted her. Even if she is no longer a princess, she is grateful to even being part of the pack.

But now, seeing how her heart breaks at the sight of the people that she was close to being one of them brought the guilt inside of him.

Ghost silently kept her close, hoping his body is enough to comfort her. He let her pour out whatever she's filling right now, not wanting to judge.

"I wish we could do something for them," She finally whispered, ending the silence.

We can only pray that whoever is their slave master, they'll have the heart to treat them better than the people who sold them.

"Do you think that can happen?" she turned to him.

Hard to say, but there are people out there who do have a heart like you, he licked her face, checking if there are any tears, only to earn a giggle from her. My Uncle Ned was one of the few Lords willing to accept you into the pack despite what the world thinks of you.

She hummed in content, burying her face on his neck, "Then I pray there would be more people like him who would treat them well."

Ghost placed his head on her lap, And you.

He felt her stroking his head, bunching several furs on his head, and continues trimming them, "Sorry, I got sidetracked and forgot my task."

It's fine, he huffed, enjoying the way she strokes him as she continues trimming his long fur. You know, he changed the subject, if you are good at this, perhaps you should start trimming other shifter's furs.

Dany laughed, completely forgetting what they had previously talked about, "I am not going to make this as a market plan."

Just a thought, he panted.

"I'll figure out what I can do," she said.

We both will, he agreed.

By the time Dany finished trimming Ghost's fur, it was already afternoon. It took her more than an hour to finish the task. Ghost's white fur now is way shorter than before, if anything he looks like a completely different wolf. Perhaps another species of dog. Though she doesn't like that there are some parts where it's clear that she trimmed it a little too deep, for their length seems shorter than the other parts.

The wolf didn't mind at all though, It's fine, Dany. As long as I don't feel too hot in this pelt, it's good.

She crossed her arms in annoyance, "It just looks messy, and I don't like how it's not proportion."

It'll grow back in time, he said, It's not like you just skinned me.

"Fine, fine," she gave up, pouting at his face.

Ghost shifted back, "Perhaps you can cut my hair too?"

She placed her hand on his face and pushed him away, "Please do that yourself."

Jon gently swatted her hand, "Thought to help you practice."

"No," she snapped.

He lifted both his hands in defeat, he couldn't help laughing at her small anger over trimming, "Alright, alright."

"Jon, Daenerys?" Someone called them from afar.

The couples turned to the source of sound to find Ser Barristan approaching them, "Are you ready for your shifting training, Daenerys?"

That soon? "You want her to train now?"

"I want to test her abilities before we go any further. Just a brief one," The Old Knight said, "I know you all just got here, but I would like to know where both of your skills lie so that I know what must I do with you both."

"I see," Jon hummed, he is quite a teacher. Perhaps when they were in Winterfell, he could've assisted Ser Rodrik, "Where must we train? We can't let anyone know that there could be a dragon around here."

"I spoke with Varys," he answered, "There is a valley nearby where it is quite remote and abandoned. I think we can use that place as our first training."

"But what if someone sees us?" Dany asked warily.

"I won't expect you to fly first, merely to understand to bring the dragon inside of you out. Or in this case, your father would've called it, waking the dragon."

He could feel her shudder beside him at the mention of her father. It had been so long anyone would talk about her own family, their family. It feels like a forgotten memory.

"Most shifters can shift at the age of seven or ten, depending on their cases. But yours, you are able to shift in your….well…. how old are you?"

"Seven and ten," she answered.

"Hmm, even later," he hummed and crossed his arm as he realized that Dany's case is something very different. Then he looked back at her, "No matter, I will still use the method any new shifters would do on their first try. Now, come with me. I will lead you all there. Don't fall behind." As he said that, he shifted into the mighty Albino Lion of the Kingsguard.

The mighty lion chuffed and leaped far to the beaches, going wherever he's going to lead them.

His speed was so blinding that Jon had to take a moment to realize that he is not going to wait for them. He quickly shifted back with haste, and lowered himself to the ground, Come on.

Dany nodded, mounting on Ghost quickly. The white wolf then raced forward, following wherever Ser Barristan is going to bring them.

Running across the beach is very different from running on land. Ghost found himself running harder than usual, panting harder and trying to run steadily, but the sand underneath his paws isn't helping. It's so smooth that his paws could sink under them, one careless land could make him trip and fall.

"Are you alright?" Dany asked, noticing him breathing harder than usual. Her hands couldn't find enough fur to hold onto, so she hugged his neck.

I'm fine, he panted, Nothing I can't handle, don't worry about me.

He looked straight ahead to see the old lion ahead of him, it seems that he too is having a hard time running, but not as hard as Ghost. What in the world is this old man made of?

The Albino Lion led them to a valley where their paws are now on lush green grass once again, thank the gods. Only that they had to leap up from rocks to hills, which is something Ghost mostly trained in. By the time they reached the top of the hill, Ghost can finally catch up with the Old Knight.

They ran a little further ahead until they reached the end of the hill like a mountain, looking towards the sea. It truly is a deserted wide-open place.

The Old Lion shifted back, "This is where we will train to shift from now on."

Ghost lowered himself to the ground to let Dany dismount before he turned back, "Quite an empty place."

"Indeed," he said, "Fitting for the size of a dragon," at the mention of a dragon, Dany turned to Ser Barristan. He too is looking at her, "What do you remember of when you first turned, Daenerys?"

Dany hesitated, trying to recall the day she turned for the first time, "I remember feeling…..desperate, helpless. I wanted to help, but I wasn't sure how. Melisandre then turned to me, telling me that I always knew the answer. Then I felt a headache, getting into me. That's when I changed."

"I see," Ser Barristan hummed, "Did you ever attempt to shift again?"

She shook her head, "While everyone will definitely look for me, I didn't think of doing it again."

The Old Knight crossed his arms, wrapping his head, thinking back again. If his theory is right, both cubs tend to change into an entirely different form when one is in trouble. That moment was a trigger to wake the dragon. While most shifters were able to find their inner animals easily, a dragon may be an entirely different matter.

He supposes it won't hurt to give it a try, "Jon, will you come closer here?" The young lad obliged, getting nearer to him, "Now, whatever you do, don't move."

"What?"

Before he could even get an answer, he found himself rammed to the ground, flying back until it knocked the breath out of him. He heard Dany yelped. He was taken by surprise to even realize what was that as he tried to collect the air back into his lungs in a gasp. As he tried to get up, a roar broke out and a white blur slammed into him again, knocking the air out of his chest.

He got enough time to realize that it was the Old Lion attacking him, large paws keeping him in place.

"HEY, WHAT ARE YOU DOING?" Jon tried to shout as much as he can with limited air. When he looked at the Old Lion, his eyes looked even more savage than he used to know. The yellow slits glaring daggers at him, lips curled into a snark, and dagger-like teeth ready to strike and stab. This made him intimidated and frightened to even move, making his heart beat faster.

He really thought that the lion will truly end him when he opened his mouth and ready to bite his head off…

Until something knocked the lion off his chest, giving him space, he needs to breathe in again finally. Jon gasped, trying to recollect what just happened. He suddenly felt something looming over him, blocking the blazing sun off his face. When he opened his eyes, he saw something else.

A huge neck looming over him. He tried to sit up to see it properly, rubbing his eyes to ensure what his visions are making him see.

And there it is, the white dragon he saw back at Winterfell.

The White Dragon roared again ahead of him, letting out a magnificent snarl echoing the hills. Jon looks ahead to see the White Lion getting back up again. This time, he only looked at the dragon. "There you are, Daenerys."

"What do you think you are doing?" a feminine growl came from the dragon, "You could've killed him."

"I didn't," Ser Barristan calmly said, "Merely baiting you."

The White Dragon gave a low snarl, "You call this training?"

"Testing a theory, my lady," the lion shifted back and walked towards them, "You weren't certain how to shift, so this may be a good start. Strong fling by the way."

Jon began to stand, trying to make sense of where he's getting at, "What were you testing?"

"I noticed that both of your dragon forms seem to emerge when one of you is in danger," he explained, "That sense of protecting each other triggers the dragon inside you, and that's how you are able to turn into one."

Jon never thought of that, he turned to Dany, who turns out to be the dragon beside him. Her form is magnificent, just like what he had always imagined when he was reading the stories of the Targaryen Dragons. He found himself in awe and a little fearful, for he has finally be able to come face to face with a true dragon. And apparently, that dragon turned out to be the same dragon he rescued all those seasons ago.

He swallowed nervously, "Dany?"

She looked down at him, her violet orbs meeting his eyes. She lowered her head to him, "Are you alright?"

Jon couldn't help but smile, he brought his hand up slowly and touched her snout, feeling her soft white scales, "This is amazing!"

She exhaled, feeling her hot breath on his legs, "I didn't even know I could do it."

"You look beautiful, as you always do," Jon said, feeling a surge of excitement in him.

"Now you are over-exaggerating," she huffed.

"I'm speaking the truth," he laughed.

Ser Barristan approached them, "Now, we just need you to get used to your new skin," looking at Dany, "How are you feeling?"

"Different," she answered.

He chuckled, "I'm sure you do, young one. Come, let's try a few walking practices, shall we?"

Jon looked at the Old Knight, "Whatever for?"

"I want her to get used to her new form," he answered, "I cannot keep hurting you so that she can release her dragon form, she is going to summon at her will."

"I see," he said, "Do I have to do the same?"

"One dragon at a time, young one. I would prefer if you both practice together with your wolf, it seems that it'll help her to see something familiar, don't you, Daenerys?" he looked up to her.

The White Dragon nodded, "Mayhaps."

"Alright, then let's get to it, Jon," he clapped, "Trying just walking around the hill, but don't go to the sand, we don't want to leave any footprints behind."

"Understood," Jon said and shifted to Ghost with ease. While Dany's form is huge, her form looks like any young dragons from the pictures in the books. He bet she could grow as big as Balerion in the years to come.

"How did you turn, Jon?" Dany asked.

It's an instinct, I suppose, he answered, the first time he had ever shifted was a distant memory. Now, it's muscle memory, You just get used to it.

"I see," she huffed, a little annoyed that she didn't get a more specific answer to help her situation.

The White Wolf looked up to her, Let's try one step at a time. Then, he padded in front of her, indicating to follow him.

Dany walked slowly, following his lead. The two white shifters walked together slowly, if anything, they looked a little like playing rather than training. Then again, it's what it meant to get used to one's new skin.

Ser Barristan watched them from afar, sitting on a boulder. Just watching the two of them help each other, Ghost would pad around the dragon, letting out yips of encouragement while the White Dragon is adjusting to her new form. While he was supposed to be the one training her, it seems more appropriate for them both to do it together instead. After all, from the look on young Jon's face, he is very delighted to be with the now Dragon, Daenerys.

Ser Rodrik once told him that it was satisfying and rewarding to see cubs growing up and get better with their training. They first started clueless, thinking that they can't do it. And then, he showed them a way to their problem, and the next thing you know, the cubs are on their feet. Practicing and focusing on becoming better. And when other new cubs join, the older ones would do the same just as he did with them.

This is what he must've meant. To see his new cubs that he is going to train now about to grow, under the sunset. It's like the gods have chosen their King and Queen.

The old knight smiled, You ought to be very proud of your son and sister, my prince.

I thought to make it longer, but it doesn't seem to fit the chapter.

In this chapter, my aim is for the two of them to adjust to their new life. When a new life that is not according to your plan comes, one tends to be confused. That is my focus.

And a sense of appreciation. Most of us worry a lot about what it is to come but not focusing on the present, and I find Jon fitting to do this. After all, his initial plan was to pass the Running. Not to be King.

And of course, our lion is full of surprises. Ser Barristan and Brom from Eragon seem to be alike, so I put a bit of him there. After all, he is chosen by Jaime. Never underestimate a boomer, hahahaa!

I thought trimming Ghost's fur is appropriate. After all, I don't think there are wolves in tropical areas.

If you are wondering what Dany's dragon look like, there was an unfinished CGI of Drogon, all white. Just imagine that until I know how to put pictures here :p

Yea, so that was it. Hope you enjoy it! Leave out your comments and tell me what you think!

And of course, live your life guys

Claire.