A/N: Sups all. Sorry things are so slow with me. Lotta stuff to do. Got a job finally but I have to move to a different town in the metro area, that's a drag. Plus more crap. Not much time to write.

Just found a great new story called A Targaryen Dynasty by BlackRose999. Really recommend to read it :)

Enjoy and please comment :D

Chapter 41: Sleepless in Starfall

Hobbled by rheumatism, Althos Dayne looked nothing like the Sword of the Morning prior to Arthur. Each step he took of his frail body seemed to bring him pain, but nevertheless he persisted in walking stride by stride with Rhaegar. "My son tells me a great tale, your Grace. I hope you realize how great a request you ask of me."

"This I realize, my Lord," Rhaegar replied.

"I don't think you realize the danger my House is now in."

"Father, you should trust Rhaegar as well as myself. King Aerys has greatly deserved what is about to come his way. He will be deposed one way or the other, and it's best if Prince Rhaegar is the one…"

The Lord held up his hand. "My son, I trust you greatly even in spite of how you nearly broke your Kingsguard oath." That silenced Arthur - unlike his siblings, his father was… frosty about Dacey's pregnancy. Not about her or the baby, but more on what it meant for Arthur. But that wasn't the current discussion. "If you believe in Prince Rhaegar, I do as well. But we are speaking of treason. Lord Titus Peake is awaiting your audience and he is sworn to Mace Tyrell… whom I know is a wannabe confidant of the King. I wish to make sure that thousands of Reachmen aren't about to descend upon us because of your arrival."

Rhaegar found that reasonable. "Perhaps it is time to hear what the young Lord has to say." He hadn't told the Lord about his and Elia's raven to Starpike. Best see if Titus Peake would be receptive.

House Dayne's guards brought Titus Peake into the grand hall. "My Prince." The young Lord of Starpike - face handsome, framed with curly-brown hair - knelt before Rhaegar. "My sword and shield are yours."

He seems desperate in his loyalty… good sign. Titus Peake wasn't anywhere near the level of deceptive caliber that Rhaegar was used to. "Rise, my Lord." He gestured to the table, both Arthur and Lord Althos taking a seat across from the young Lord while the Prince took the head. "Now, what do you wish of this audience?"

Titus seemed quite unsure of himself, but continued - taking a deep breath. "My Liege Lord, Mace Tyrell, sent ravens to all over the Reach… He is asking us to reaffirm our loyalty to the Crown."

It took all of his fortitude for his heart not to pound out of his chest. This he did not expect so early. "I don't see any reason for him to have done that." Did Mace find out? The dolt was the last person he considered for knowing of the plot. At his smartest, he'd just use it to extort a betrothal to Aegon.

"It only said what I told you, your Grace, but I can put together that the Realm is in danger of… something. And considering my House's… questionable history with House Targaryen, I wished to express my support to you personally."

The Peakes were ardent supporters of Daemon Blackfyre, and Rhaegar's great-grandfather King Maekar Targaryen was killed while trying to storm Starpike during one of their rebellions. Seems Elia's reliance on that history paid off. "My… father and I do see threats on the horizon to the crown. Your House is a powerful one, and I would be honored to have its support."

Smiling softly, Lord Peake leaned in. "Forgive me for my forwardness and intransigence, but if the interests of yourself and the King do diverge, I feel that my Liege Lord would side with the King… while I am inclined to side with you… my Prince."

He doesn't know what we're planning truly, but it doesn't take a maester to realize the tension in the Realm. "I appreciate it, Lord Peake." He could just fuck Elia till she passed out from this - Lyanna too, given the newest developments. "You are an honored guest of my household and I hope we can discuss our alliance further at a different date."

Titus bowed respectfully. "Thank you, your Grace."

"So what are your thoughts, Arthur?" Rhaegar asked as they walked down the vine-covered walls of the great castle, battlements to their left overlooking the east course of the Torrentine. "Should I trust Lord Peake?"

The Kingsguard pursed his lips. "When we were the Kings of the Torrentine, House Peake often tried to subdue us for the Gardeners. Then they tried to fight us for… well, your House. And then they fought us for Daemon Blackfyre. A mighty, warrior house are they… which is why you should trust their support."

"Why?"

"Warrior houses are bad at deception in the political realm for the most part. Titus Peake is trying his best to play politics, which is an earnest effort. Heed it."

Rhaegar pursed his lips. "Alright, Arthur. I'd be a fool not to trust you in your own element."

Arthur nodded, hands behind his back as he looked over his home. "I didn't know how much I missed it here till I arrived."

"I'm glad you adapted well to the Kingsguard lifestyle… Although Dacey probably isn't."

"I don't regret it… regardless of my father's disapproval, I don't regret choosing her."

"You are a great knight, Arthur. There is no doubt in my mind that you can hold honor and loyalty for both your oath and your family." Arthur smiled, greatly appreciative of his friend's praise.

Nestled within several layers of walls and hillside away from prying eyes, a thick grove of olive, citrus, and myrtle surrounded the blood-red heart tree of the Starfall Godswood - itself ringed by circular pools and fountains. They found their women kneeling in the center, praying before the foreboding visage. Elia and Lyanna were right beside each other, allowing him to pull them into a hug from behind. "Finding spiritual enlightenment, my loves?"

Lyanna tilted her head back, kissing Rhaegar on the cheek. "Nothing as mysterious as that," she chuckled.

"Just trying to convert Elia," chuckled Ashara, rising to greet her brother. "I think we have her right where we want her."

"Very funny, Ash," Elia said from Rhaegar's arms. "You're lucky I'm still taking you in as my Lady in Waiting." With Ellaria now living with Oberyn, there was no better choice than her other childhood friend. "But Rhaegar, this place… it… all I can really say to explain it is that I understand why Lyanna always found solace here."

Gods, do I need it right now. Surreptitiously cupping her stomach, she hoped no one noticed her apprehension.

"Can the Prince of Westeros escort these fine ladies to their midday meal?"

A deep breath followed by a smile from Lyanna. "Lead the way, my dragon."

Just as she rose to follow her husband and sister wife, Ashara brushed beside her. "You should tell them… The gods favor honesty." Smiling, the beauty of Starfall left the northern Princess before the heart tree - the tempest of emotions never ceasing.


Dearest Ned,

I don't think there is any better way to tell you this, so I should just come out and say it. I am planning to inform father that I am renouncing my claim to Winterfell.

It was as if all sounds in the room had vanished, replaced with a silence that boomed in Ned's ears. He blinked, rereading the sentence only to blink again. Had he misread?

Apparently not.

Call me selfish if you wish, brother, but the entire family knows that you are more lordly than I could ever be. The selfish thing would be for me to guide House Stark when I am not the one most suited for the job. You are, and as your brother I will be your loyal servant in any task you require of me.

Ned's hands trembled, blood turning to ice. Was this really happening? Was he to become the Lord of Winterfell? So much to take in…

My one worry is the Lady Catelyn. While I care for her, she is too good to marry someone not a Lord. I shall try to convince both Lord Tully and Elbert to betroth her as the new Lady Arryn, because let's face it. Lysa is insane and won't make a good Lady.

Ned had to snort at that - it was on the nose.

Gods be with you, Ned. I am taking my destiny by the horns, and I know you were born to do this.

Your brother,

Brandon.

Letter dropping to the desk before him, Ned pushed the chair from the desk, leaning back on it. "Why… why, Bran why? You were born to be a Lord."

Was he?

Lya had brought it up to him once, at the Twins. Watching him dance and be merry with Walder Frey's daughters even though the old codger loved using his women to snare highborn men. How Brandon slept with Lady Catelyn prior to their upcoming vows… one just didn't do that with a highborn girl unless they were absolutely certain of their intentions. Was there always that strain of deficiency in Bran? One that predicted this?

Rather - more importantly - was there a strain of leadership in him? One that both Rhaegar and Bran saw? Head pulsing with the weight of it all, Ned rose from his chair and grabbed his cloak. "I need to think," he muttered to himself.

Late at night few people visited the grove of pine and spruce trees, even as the servants lit pathways and the hot springs kept it robustly warmer than the surrounding landscape. Ned and Lya in their youth could always count on the silence to provide an escape. Even when stepping one foot into the Godswood, the tightness in his heart already felt lighter.

However, he was not alone. A lone figure stood in front of the heart tree. Long tresses of red hair that tumbled across her back truly shocking him. "Lady Catelyn?"

Startled, Catelyn turned. "Oh, Ned. I didn't see you come in."

"They always did call me the Quiet Wolf," he quipped dryly, trying to ease her tension. "What are you doing here?" She blinked, eyes frittering to the mournful face carved into the tree. "I must warn against lying. The gods don't care for that in front of the heart tree."

"I wasn't…" Biting her lip, Catelyn sighed. "Forgive me. I don't really know what brought me here, but I… My Brandon knows the south, but I did see him in the Godswood at Riverrun. We don't have one of these trees and yet he still prayed… every day."

Brandon… She didn't know - Ned didn't have the courage to be the one to tell her. "Aye he kept our faith in his own way."

Longing filled her expression. "I miss him. It's been moons and life just isn't the same for me without your brother. I enjoyed my childhood, but he simply brought new life into me."

"He has a knack for doing that."

"I honestly can't wait to be his wife. Perhaps that will help me adapt to here better." Catelyn looked again at the heart tree. "Perhaps he can be my connection to this place - whatever transpires, it will be the pleasure of a lifetime to experience it with him." Smiling wistfully, she reached over and lightly hugged her future goodbrother. "Seven blessings to you, brother." A single kiss on the cheek and she walked off towards the keep, leaving Ned alone.

"Her heart will break," Ned said to the heart tree, answered by nothing but the wafting of the leaves. "I pray she finds Elbert a better husband." Putting aside thoughts of Lady Catelyn for now, Ned knelt before the weirwood, hand resting against the smooth bark.

Great ones, heed my prayer. Watch over my family - father, Bran, Ben, Lya, Rhaegar, Rhaenys, Egg, and Elia. I… I am not prepared to serve you as the Lord of these lands. Grant us your wisdom and show me your way.

Suddenly he found himself pulled away from his body, images flashing before him...

Ice flashing in a great battle, spilling blood in Ned's hands as he wielded it in a mad, desperate charge.

Laughing with Lya, two furry shapes bounding in the snow ahead of them.

Walking down the snow-lined pathways with a girl kissed by fire, handing her off to a young man with Lya's hair and Rhaegar's eyes - a pure Valyrian beauty standing to the side.

A gorgeous young woman embracing him tightly, crying at the loss of her young love. Ned comforting her as he whispered "Rhae…"

And lastly, the glittering smile of someone that made his heart clench. Framed by rivers of gold, the joyous image of Cersei Lannister watched him. Eyes filled with the deepest love.

"My darling wolf…"

Suddenly flung back into the present, Ned almost keeled over as spasms tasked his lungs. The old gods seemed to task him with a life of pain and struggle… and yet also of love and family.

She is not worthy of a second son.

Yet you aren't to be a second son anymore…

By a stroke of Brandon's pen, all he ever wanted was finally in Ned's grasp. Cersei…

Unbeknownst to any of the Starks, the Lord of Leeches let himself into the Lord's solar - having snuck passed the guards who were too engrossed in a game of dice. Searching for advantage, if any could be gained.

Rifling through Eddard Stark's papers, the leech's milky eyes widened at the words. Without a sound he set everything the way he found it. Slipping out - desperate to think of a way to salvage what was left of his plans.

Roose Bolton would not let this slip from his fingers.


"Well, looks like I'm back," Tyrion mused as his father came into view, almost grinding his teeth at the annoyance. It's good to see you too, father. What he didn't expect was the buxom, smiling woman to his right. As such, she was the first he greeted when the guard opened the door. "Aunt Genna."

"My little nephew." She picked him up rather easily, hugging him to her chest. "Glad to finally see you out of that shit-smelling monstrosity."

"It wasn't too bad," he chuckled, appreciative of his aunt's affections. They obviously irked his father, but Genna was always able to get away with it. "I learned a lot from Lord Stark."

Being set down, he didn't expect any form of greeting from Tywin and Tywin didn't disappoint. "That is all well and good, because I doubt I would have allowed you back had he not insisted."

"He's your son, Tywin. Of course you would have," Genna countered sternly.

Appreciating the defense, Tyrion nonetheless spoke up. "I believe Lord Lannister wishes that I complete the apprenticeship I sought rather than resume my previous life of frivolity."

They began to walk up the steps, making for an odd trio of golden-haired lions. "You are a disappointment, but are not stupid." For Tywin, that wasn't faint praise. "I expect you to put what you learned to the test."

"I would expect nothing less, and it'll be fun showing off to my uncles."

"You'll have to discount Gerion, he's no longer here," Genna said sadly. "He's on an expedition."

That surprised him. "Where?"

"Old Valyria, Tywin replied with a scowl. "If your uncle wishes to kill himself that's his damn business. Though I wouldn't cry if you went on something similar, you didn't and thus better pull your weight. Excuse me." As soon as he could, Tywin dashed off down a corridor, leaving his son and sister to continue towards the motte without him.

There was silence for a long while, the only sound being the scuff of their boots atop the stone steps. "I've endured a lot from my lord father," Tyrion finally said, "But he seems to be in a worse mood than usual."

Genna rolled her eyes. "Oh, your father just finds things to put him into moods. He's been in this one since the news with your sister ended her betrothal negotiations."

"Betrothal negotiations?" Cersei never mentioned anything in her letters to Jaime - in extension, to him, but they were always addressed to his brother.

"She didn't tell… Jaime?" Genna was no fool regarding the family dynamic. "Not surprising, given everything. Ty wanted to betroth her to Robert Baratheon. She refused, said she wanted to marry…"

"Eddard Stark?"

She looked down on him with a surprised expression. "You knew?"

Tyrion chuckled. "My skills, Aunt Genna. I drink and I know things."

Joining his mirth, Genna shook her head. "The first is my father, the second is your father. Spitting image of the two, which is why I think Ty is uncomfortable around you." Tyrion disagreed, but he didn't voice it. "Anyway, yes, Cersei wished to marry Eddard Stark and it got them into a massive scuffle. He would have bound and shipped her to Storm's End if…" She trailed off.

"If what, Aunt Genna?"

A sigh. "I think it's best if she tells you herself." Tyrion did not know what to make of that.

Two hours later, Tyrion knocked at his sister's door. "Careful, little Lord."

His brow rose. "Little Lord?"

"Aye, you're a Lord and you're little." Sandor Clegane shrugged. "She'll bite your head off. Sickness getting to her."

"Sickness?" Now Tyrion was worried. "What does she…"

"Nothing that she can give to you."

"Come in!" Cersei shouted from inside. She hasn't changed a bit, then. Giving Sandor one last quizzical look, he entered the room only to stop. Eyes widening.

Cersei looked pale and haggard. That pointed to some things, but the tight cut of her dress that did nothing to hide the growing swell of her stomach narrowed it down. "If you talk to anyone outside this keep, I will cut your cock off."

Threat not fazing him - knowing she had slept with Ned Stark made this shocking, not surprising - Tyrion smirked. "Ever since I was a babe you have been rather wishful to do so, sweet sister."

She glowered, but nevertheless did not object to her brother finding a chair to make himself comfortable. "If you're gonna yell at me for getting with child, father's done enough for the both of us." Cersei sat back upon her bed, willing the malady to break for once this month.

Tyrion snickered - the Light of the West humbled like this wasn't a sight one often saw. "Our loving father certainly has a way with words doesn't he?" He eyed her pregnant abdomen curiously. "So there's really a lionwolf in there, huh?"

As much as she could not stand her brother, Cersei tolerated his presence. Not only was the company if someone other than Aunt Genna that didn't judge her rather welcome, she had to admit "lionwolf" made her smile. She brought a hand to her belly. "Yes."

"And you're upset because…?"

The joy at her thoughts died at his idiotic question. "Why do you think, Tyrion? First, my stomach is trying every day to expel itself out of me. Second, I'm pregnant with the bastard child of the man I love and can't ever be with. So yes I'm fucking upset!"

Tyrion had to shake his ears, trying to hear right. Did she admit she loved Eddard Stark. My sister, Cersei?! She continued to surprise him. "Well… Ned's not married." It did seem a rather obvious solution. "And if he feels for you as you do him - which I suspect is true, you have him like a puppy waiting for a treat - he will beg father for your hand."

Cersei has to admit his characterization of her direwolf was accurate. Ned was ready to elope with her on their first night. "Father would still never allow it."

"He never allowed Jaime to be a Kingsguard, and yet there he is, wearing the white and ogling the Queen." Watching her bite her lip, Tyrion figured he was lucky for Cersei to be so amiable.

Cersei sighed, conceding he had a point. She caressed her stomach protectively. "I hate it when you make sense."

He grinned. "Cause you'll just have to admit that you appreciate my advice? Must be horrifying for you." They poured each other a goblet of cider. "By the way have you thought of names for the little one?"

That subject made Cersei smile. "I've thought of a few…" The smile turned into a devilish smirk. "Mostly to piss father off."

Now Tyrion was interested. "Oh? Care to name a few sister? If anyone is an expert at pissing off the great Tywin Lannister is his dwarf of a son."

"Though his daughter is catching up to that dwarf," she replied. "Maybe Tytos... or Robb after Ser Robb Reyne."

"Good choices, though if you truly want to irk him, go with the latter. As much of an idiot and whoremonger our grandfather was, our father still loved him." Family mattered to Tywin - probably the only reason he hadn't smothered Tyrion in his sleep.

"If its a girl… perhaps something Dornish.

"You could name her Ellyn."

"Ah, the Reyne whore." She giggled, sipping her cider. "For once I like the way you think."

He raised his silver goblet, clinking with Cersei's. "The Lannister siblings, irking our father one day at a time."

"I think young cousin Lancel will come close." That boy was as useless in combat as Tyrion without any of the… excuses. "Let's see if Jaime catches up."

"Oh, he very well could. I see a little boy or girl with blond hair and purple eyes in the future."

"The Queen? I don't doubt Jaime's enough of an idiot to cuckold the King, but Rhaella won't let him."

He wagged his finger. "Never underestimate the courage and stupidity of a man in love."

"Or a woman," Cersei sighed. "You know, I feel less and less desirous of tossing you off the Rock's cliffs."

Tyrion clutched at his heart. "Why, you move me dear sister. Father might, though."

Cersei chuckled. "He was about to when you milked the eel into his turtle stew."

"Yes…" Tyrion murmured softly, pushing out of the chair. "Father was the only one I did that to..." He was already halfway towards the door.

It took a split second of thinking before Cersei's eyes widened. "You disgusting little monster!" But Tyrion was already out the door when her goblet crashed against it.


Ashara Dayne was beautiful.

There was no denying it even for the most jealous and envious of women - of whom Lyanna was not. With her raven hair, dark purple eyes, and fair complexion, she combined both the ethereal Valyrian looks with the lithe strength of the First Men. All with a warm heart that made Dacey feel at home in what was essentially her goodfamily's keep. Lyanna understood why Elia liked her. Why she liked her. The Princess was slowly bonding with the Dornishwoman, a friendship developing.

"You need to tell the both of them," Ashara said gently but firmly as they walked under the moonlight. The crescent sliver casting an ethereal hue over the Torrentine.

"It's not that simple, Ash."

While Dacey would have rolled her eyes and Ellaria would have snorted, Ashara merely wrapped an arm around her shoulder. All appreciated in their own signature manner. "Elia told me of what happened. I may not have experienced being with child, but I know this isn't a burden to bear alone."

"I don't want to bear this alone…" Lyanna murmured. "But if something happens, I couldn't bear to see them hurt as they were." I hurt them both and now it's happening again…

Ashara sighed. "You don't have to relive it if it hurts too much…"

"No." Lyanna shook her head. "It's fine." She cupped her belly. Jon… my pup… I love you already. "I love this babe, Ash, just as I loved Visenya. What if I lose this one too?"

Ashara's purple eyes held an intensity, though not like Rhaegar's. Lustrous rather than fiery. "And you will lose yourself if you don't find joy with them. I can tell they both love you." It was shocking that the prudish, withdrawn Elia Martell had fallen into a traditional Valyrian marriage with the Crown Prince and a northerner, but recent events proved to Ash the… appeal those north of the Neck held. "Let them love your babe with you."

Walking back to the keep, Lyanna smiled at her new friend. "You are wise beyond your years, Ash."

"Oh, while Arthur was becoming the greatest swordsman that ever lived, I endured the worst training course for a lady wishing to understand people - the Dornish court." Both chuckled at that. "On another subject, when Elia left Sunspear there were plenty of young knights and courtiers that had fallen desperately for her."

"Are you trying to make Rhaegar jealous?" Or me jealous? Because it was working if her inner wolf's possessive ire had anything to say about it.

Ash smirked, eyes twinkling. "No, just curious. Did your younger brother leave anyone like that in Winterfell?"

Lyanna regarded her curiously. "I don't believe so…. Ben's always been the quiet sort."

"What a shame then." Even as she stepped a bit ahead of Lyanna, the she-wolf could tell the Beauty of Starfall smiled widely.

Lyanna entered the guest chambers ten minutes later to find her shirtless husband alone. Back hunched over a writing desk as he scribbled something. Her heart did a little hitch at seeing him - silver hair glinting in the firelight. She strode behind him, wrapping her arms around his shoulders. "Hello wife," Rhaegar said, leaning up for a kiss.

Which was readily given. "You've memorized my touch, haven't you?"

"Yes, but also your smell," he replied, chuckling.

"Elia?" Lyanna asked.

"Privy. We waited up for you."

They are so sweet. "Why did you do that?" She leaned down and placed kisses on his neck and shoulders.

Rhaegar groaned… "Can't sleep without you." His violet eyes shone with love. "Both of you have spoiled me these last weeks."

Lyanna blushed faintly, still in disbelief at it all - at how sudden it all was. At how much she loved it. I've never thought such about a woman before… "What are you doing?" she asked, changing the subject.

"Preparing notes for my conversation with the Most Devout." Their next stop was Oldtown, one they dreaded more than Sunspear.

Lyanna closed her eyes. "A talk that would go much easier if I wasn't around."

"Don't say that."

"No, your marriage to me challenges the Faith." She laughed dryly. "Another cut your father made to you." Drawing back, Lyanna walked to the bed. Sitting upon it with her hands in her lap.

"Lya?" His voice was soft, comforting as he sat beside her.

In the comfort of her own chambers Lyanna's strength evaporated. Tears rolling down her cheeks as she sobbed softly.

Rhaegar felt almost stabbed through the heart at his beloved's tears. "Lya…" She was in his arms instantaneously, burying her face in his chest. "Tell me what's wrong."

Just then the door opened and Elia walked in. Clad in her nightdress and stretching - yawning sleepily. All sleep left her at seeing her sister-wife so despondent. "Seven hells, Lyanna." She quickly took the empty space to her side. "What happened, Rhaegar?"

"I don't know," he murmured, watching as Lyanna leaned into Elia.

"Gods, Lya, did something happen?" Elia asked her, heart breaking in two from the horrid sound of Lyanna's tears.

'She will hurt you…' The seductive voice delivered its poison directly to Lya. 'The babe is a threat to her…'

"I… I don't know if I can do this again…" she choked out, voice quivering. "If it happens again…"

"What happens again?" Rhaegar ran a hand through his hair, fearful. "Tell us, please."

"I didn't mean for this to happen, my loves," she gasped, fresh tears welling in her eyes. "Believe me… it's all my fault." She knew all they were about to endure. "My fault…"

"You're scaring me, my wolf. Please…"

"I'm with child…" It was so soft, Lyanna wondered if they heard it.

When a strong palm, soft yet calloused, cupped her belly she knew they did. "You're…" Rhaegar asked, trembling.

Elia was silent. "How… how long?"

Anger, pain and anger. "A moon. Likely the first night on the boat." The irony was immense, her son conceived with a little bit of all of them. "I'm sorry…"

She was cut off as Elia kissed her desperately, lovingly. Lyanna just managed to suck in a breath before Rhaegar followed. As if there was no greater joy in the world than this. "Did you think I'd be upset?" Rhaegar asked, voice hollow.

Biting her lip, Lyanna nodded.

"Why would you think that?" Elia's voice had a tinge of hurt. Does she not know how much I love her? Perhaps she hadn't come to terms with having a female lover. Not all of us can.

"I… the coup. The chaos… now is the worst time."

"There are never perfect times for this, Lya. But we're in joy nonetheless," Rhaegar cooed as he kissed her brow.

"I meant what I said to my brother," Elia added. "I love the little one as if he was of my womb." Such as it was for the dragonlord of old, or the ancient first men. "Fuck what all others say."

Their words brought an indescribable happiness. And yet… Her voice caught, almost inaudible. "What if I lose this one?"

Rhaegar's grip tightened around her. "Never."

"You don't know that… I lost…"

"We won't let that happen," Elia said firmly, her hand cupping Lya's belly. "Right husband?"

Eyes blazing dragonfire, he fell to his knees, inching his head to her stomach. "My son, my child… Kepa will never let anyone harm you."

This time Lyanna cried again, only the tears were of joy. Of how the two of them already adored little Jon. "I don't deserve this…"

"You do, Lyanna." Elia kissed her again, sighing happily as her sister-wife melted into it.

"By all the gods, you do." To her wide eyes and Elia's giggles - it was quite ridiculous in a way - Rhaegar grabbed Blackfyre and knelt before Lya… and their babe. "I pledge my eternal loyalty to you, Princesses Lyanna Targaryen, Elia Targaryen, and Rhaenys Targaryen - Prince Aegon Targaryen and the as yet unnamed Targaryen Prince."

Lya snorted. Her husband really was adorable.

Smiling at his loves' reactions, Rhaegar continued. "My sword and my shield are yours to command, until my dying day."

"Rise, Rhaegar of House Targaryen." Elia wanted so badly to kiss him. "So you're our sworn sword now?"

"Aye, this day till the end of my days. Yours and our babes'... that if the she-wolf doesn't mind - I know how picky she is about knowing she can defend herself."

Heart clenching with warmth, Lyanna simply leapt at him. "No… it's perfect. Thank you, Rhaegar." She let his heat calm her. "We're having a babe…"

Pulling Elia up to join the embrace - greedily accepted by his brides - Rhaegar kissed Lya's head. "I love him already, my loves." You will not take him, father. I swear by the old gods and the new.

The transition was natural. Spontaneous - from comforting and sweet to heated and no less comforting. Lyanna and Rhaegar's eyes met, the spark so familiar between them igniting as she slowly closed the distance. Mouths opening up to accept the other in a tangled, languid display of love.

Watching the two she most loved in the world, Elia felt her nethers tingle. Hand reaching to caress Rhaegar's bare muscles, cupping Lyanna's soft cheek. At the contact she saw Lyanna break her kiss with their husband. Eyes meeting, the beautiful greys that had captivated her from the moment they met - Elia could admit that now - she smiled and leaned forward. Kissing all the same. She unknowing of the spark that first appeared to Lyanna. The first of someone other than Rhaegar… the only someone other than Rhaegar in her life.

There was no jealousy in Rhaegar's gaze, only love and lust. An unspoken agreement with his Dornish Princess to pleasure their she-wolf. To make sure this memory of their babe was one to treasure and not despise. "My love…' Rhaegar cooed, nuzzling his nose against her cheek. "I'm so happy." He kissed her cheek and Lyanna sighed softly into her embrace with Elia, leaning her body into his. "I can't wait to meet our little Prince."

It was a short journey to the bed, Elia and Rhaegar shedding their few clothes before moving to disrobe their love. Peppering each stretch of bare skin with kisses and loving caresses. Gently pushing her onto the bed. Lyanna bit her lip, staring at them with lust-filled eyes. Rubbing her legs together like a cricket. A pure, wild beauty of the North…

And it drove them just as wild, but the joy of the babe in her stomach calmed them.

Rhaegar leaned forward first, planting a sweet, soft kiss on Lyanna's lips. Running his tongue along her teeth, placing his other hand on her belly - it made her swoon, and gush. Lyanna kissed him desperately, putting her hands in his hair as she plundered his mouth.

The bed dipped as Elia climbed on. Snuggling next to her sister-wife with rather… prurient intentions. Steeling a hungry kiss from the northern beauty, hands immediately groping her breasts. The pregnancy already made them hypersensitive, a bit heavier than normal. Elia lusted for them. Especially after Lyanna mewled in her mouth, turned on greatly by the ministrations.

Mewls turned to a deep moan when Rhaegar entered her. Slow and sensual rather than the feverish fucking that the dragon and wolf went at each other with normally. He clenched his teeth at how tight she was. Pressing on with a quiet determination. "My love. My wife. Mother of my babes."

"Mmmmm… fuck me, Kepa, please," she moaned, bucking her hips to take him ever deeper. "I love you."

"I love you too." His pressured face suddenly grew a smirk. "Ready to join, my sun?"

Lyanna was confused until something warm and beautiful fell upon her mouth. The smell intoxicating. "Please, Lya," Elia begged. The sight of their lovemaking making her burn with need. Gasping when the she-wolf's eager tongue stabbed through her folds. "Oh, gods… Lya… I love both of you."

"You are ours to protect and cherish." Rhaegar kept his thrusts firm. Grabbing Elia's breast from behind to steady himself. "Our Queen."

"Our lives were empty without… you," Elia choked out, core pulsing with pleasure.

Moaning into her cunt, rocking from the thrusts, Lyanna closed her eyes. It was then that she heard it return… 'They will hurt you… she will hurt you…'

But Lyanna ignored the seductive, poisonous voice always at the back of her mind. No… they won't… She felt the love… felt the passion they had for her. Gods… I'm so loved… She attacked Elia's cunt, desperately meeting her husband's cock. Loved… loved… loved… Oh… Her climax rocked her, joined moments later by Rhaegar and Elia. Together, a loving family for the miracle babe inside her.

Nestled together moments later in a tangle of flesh, Elia shared a languid kiss with her husband before resting a palm on Lyanna's belly. "This is nothing but a blessing, Lya. Don't ever think differently."

Trembling from the pleasure she had experienced, Lyanna cried happy tears. "Yes, he is."

"Are we sure it's a son?" Rhaegar asked, in awe of it all. The vision of the dark-haired boy riding next to him on dragonback came to his mind. The Prince loved him already.

Lyanna's thoughts were of the same boy, appearing in her own vision. "Yes. I'm carrying a son. Our son."

"Ours," murmured Elia. The three of them rested in silence for several moments, simply basking in the gentle joy. "Rhaegar," the Dornish Princess suddenly remembered. "Sing it to us."

He furrowed his brows in confusion. "Sing what?" A knowing glint in Elia's eye brought him realization. "Lya, my love." Rhaegar got her attention. "I made this for you, when you were with child last time." Pausing, he made sure Lyanna wasn't in pain - if she was, she handled it well. "Let me get my harp."

Making to move from the bed, a two sets of arms refuses to let him go. "No," Lyanna murmured. "Stay, please." Her grey eyes were filled with need.

"Your voice is all we want, right now," Elia added, kissing his shoulder.

Settling back on the bed, Rhaegar waited till his brides rested on his chest, their arms draped over each other. He cleared his throat, beginning to sing...

"Duncan met with Jenny fair

"In these hallowed halls that day;

"But the Prince right now is fu' of care

"Since these Princesses staw his heart away."

"Altho' she seemed too gu'd be true

"She proven has, a price'ss find

"Which drives the Prince aften rue

"That he'd loos'd a maiden kind."

Elia felt her sister-wife grip her hand tighter. A welcome feeling. She herself had heard the song before and Rhaegar's voice already was driving her to tears. Let alone how Lyanna felt.

"Tis o'er the hills and far away

"Tis o'er the hills and far away

"Tis o'er the hills and far away

"The let no'un drive my love astray."

The northern beauty let her cries out. Soft and gentle, coaxed from her by the meaningful melody. Even in such hardship, such pain, she wouldn't have given this precious gift up for anything in the world.

"Since she is fause whom I adore

"I'll never trust a woman more;

"Frae a' their charms I'll fade away

"So fer' them my pipes I'll sweetly play,"

"Duncan met with Jenny fair

"In these hallowed halls that day;

"But the Prince right now is fu' of care

"Since these Princesses staw his heart away."

They all cried. Crying for what had to be done. Crying for the pain Aerys put them through. Crying for the babe they lost… and for the babe in Lya's stomach that they all loved so. A sign of the future. Of the dawn that ended the darkness.

"Tis o'er the hills and far away

"Tis o'er the hills and far away

"Tis o'er the hills and far away

"The let no'un drive my love astray."


"Please, mi'Lord! Have mercy!" The unfortunate soul screeched from his hoarse throat as he was racked, limbs stretched to their breaking point. It was grotesque to watch, but Jon Connington couldn't be bothered to feel anything.

Holding up his hand to the beefy torturer, Jonothor Darry paused the procedure. He still wore his Kingsguard armor but with helm off for effect. Leaning in, his voice was gentle. Syrupy sweet with persuasion. "It can all end soon. Just confess."

The prisoner's torso was covered in bruises and burns, long having been stripped of his jerkin and gorget emblazoned with the direwolf of House Stark. "Mercy…" he murmured. "I beg…"

"Confess," Ser Jonothor said again. "Tell us how you assisted the Princess Lyanna at the King's Tourney."

"I don't… I don't know… what you're… talking about." A sigh led the Kingsguard away, drawing more protests. "Please! I don't know! Please!"

Glancing at Connington, at the nod of the Lord Hand the Kingsguard waved to the torturer. Pulling the winch on the rack, more screams echoed through the dungeon.

A/N: Did Lya really think her loves would be upset? That was dumb of her, though she likely didn't care cause everything was so happy :D

Ned sees his chance, but you just know Roose Bolton's gonna fuck it up.

Cersei and Tyrion are a riot to write!

Next time, the fun begins. If I can get 40 reviews, I'll publish it by the end of the week.