A/N: I'd like to clear something up. Keep in mind when you are reading each chapter is that the amount of time that lapses between POVs is not known. A month could last between each chapter or a week. It isn't like each chapter represents the next day. The narrative is not strictly sequential and when we flip from an Aegon POV to a James POV it could be happening at the same time or months apart. So keep that in mind. Also this chapter is kind of mature, I guess. It is ASOIAF but I've seen worse. Just a fair warning for people who really care about that sort of thing.

Disclaimer: All of this is owned by the grand wizard, George Martin. The man owns my soul.

Chapter 16 James V and Jon VI

James

James walked his horse through the gates of the Red Keep, as the party of Gold Cloaks and the three members of the Kingsguard that went along with him closed the gate behind him. Gendry had decided to ride ahead, to see Arya. He got off his horse and began to remove his riding gloves. He had just gotten back from a month long trip to the Stormland's with Gendry, and both had met with the Storm Lords. James had led a royal escort with Gendry, as both of them tried to talk them into bringing their armies to King's Landing as soon as possible. Most of them assured their loyalty to the Lord of Storm's End, but some felt that Aegon had the upper hand. When Asha Greyjoy took the Neck, James knew the war had begun, and there was nothing he could really do about it. Asha had taken Moat Cailin, Barrowton, and Torrhen's Square. With the taking of Moat Cailin she sealed the fate of Bran's army, who were now trapped in a vice.

Moat Cailin is ancient fortress on the northern edge of the great swamp known as the Neck, in the North. It is one of the North's most important strongholds, even though much of it now stands in ruins. Its importance stems from the fact that it commands the causeway, which is the safe route for armies to travel through the swamps of the Neck. It is a very effective natural choke point which has protected the North from southern invasion for thousands of years. The only way for an invader to effective bypass Moat Cailin is to win the allegiance of the Reeds who know of other routes through the swamps.

Those are not on any map, known only to the Crannogmen, such as narrow trails between the bogs and wet roads through the reeds that only boats can follow and given the Reeds' strong ancestral ties to the Starks, this is unlikely to happen. James hoped that Bran had gotten in touch with Howland Reed's son, Jojen, and that he'd help him out. The army was too big to make it through without a fight, and if the Ironborn held the towers than the northerners could not take it without sustaining massive amounts of casualties. It was too risky. Jon and James knew that Bran had to come up with an effective way to take the strong hold without losing many of his men, and hopefully he would soon.

While in Storm's End, they had met with Stannis Baratheon who was there also, and he assured that he was bringing a fleet of his ships from Dragonstone. James was anxious to meet the man, he knew that Stannis did not take kindly to giving up Dragonstone, but he did not need to give it up until Jon was ready for it. Stannis only grunted and answered when he needed to, acting like the dutiful soldier he was. Gendry and him had some animosity between them, because Stannis was still sour about Storm's End. However, in James' eyes Gendry was the son of Robert and Storm's End was his, not Stannis'. Some of the Storm Lords disagreed. With Stannis' fleet they could rest easy, and they had some protection if Aegon decided to attack from the sea. King's Landing did not have enough men-at-arms or Gold Cloaks to hold off an attack or a significant siege. All the city could hope was for the Baratheon, Martell, and Tully armies to arrive in time. For if they were attacked by both land and sea…the city would be lost in a matter of time. Tyrion had suggested preparing the city exactly like he did before the Battle of Blackwater Bay, and James agreed to it. So, the alchemists were now at work making wildfire. The Gold Cloaks began to round up the notorious thieves, and all the gates but the Mud Gate were open. Tyrion also imposed a new tax on the city and all who entered had to still pay a fee. Just like Arya suggested. Tyrion better not fail me…

James stood in the middle of the courtyard as he slowly removed the second glove. He stared up at the seven majestic Red Towers and found himself dazed by them. In his three years since he'd live here, James, had never fully appreciated what Aegon had begun and Maegor had finished. The seven massive pale red stone drum-towers that were crowned with iron ramparts. Massive curtain walls surround the keep as well, with nests and crenelations for archers. James watched the ant-sized men walking back and forth, suited in their black Targaryen leather.

The wind began to pick up and James turned around, handing his horse off to a Gold Cloak, and shoved his other glove in his pocket. Black strands of hair fell across his face and his beard felt itchy. His legs ached from the days ride and his ass was sore from the saddle. His breeches and boots were splattered with mud, along with his doublet, and the crown felt heavy upon his head. It made his temples throb in pain, along with his scars. It seemed those constant reminders of Aegon would never stop throbbing…ever. The thing he urned for right now was a hot bath and Dany's touch. He ordered the gate closed with a waive of his hand, when he heard her voice behind him, as if it was like clock work. The smell of her hair permeated through the air, and her sweet voice rang in his ears. The same voice he had longed to hear for the past month. James knew when he turned around, she'd be there, and the excitement was too much. He felt like some giddy love struck boy. It was a good feeling.

"You're back!" was all she said, the happiness clear in her tone.

James smiled with his back turned to her, and paused: slowly finishing stuffing his glove into his pocket. James couldn't wait to see her. He slowly turned around and there she was: standing there in his favorite violet dress, with her golden crown. Her silver hair was braided down her back, in the Dothraki fashion, and a smile from ear to ear was on her face. The dress clung against her body in a way that quickened James's pulse. It was a low in a V and pushed up her breasts. She is so beautiful. He wanted nothing more than to take her in his arms. The girlish look on her face said it all; she looked like some puppy.

"Have you grown more beautiful since I have left? How is that possible."

Without warning, she picked up her dress and threw herself into his embrace. He snaked his arms under her bottom, and she wrapped her arms around his neck and locked her legs around his torso, while burying her face into his shoulder, giggling. It was for all the world to see.

"And you said you wouldn't miss me so much." James said, with a smirk on his face.

The only response Dany had for him was to grab his face forcefully with both hands, and draw him in for a long kiss. James knew that the Queen and King must have looked ridiculous to the countless on lookers right now, but neither of them cared. He had been a month away from her touch, her smell, and everything else. It was as if they were still newly married.

"I lied." She finally responded, both were out of breath after the kiss. Dany ran her fingers through his long hair, and massaged his scalp, her eyes were studying his face.

"I can see that," James responded, the smirk still on his face.

"I should have gone with you. Or at least stopped you from going."

"You could have tried…" James replied, both were obviously flirting. He could hear snickers and laughs from a few Gold Cloaks, but he blocked it out.

"And how would I have done that?" Dany teased.

"Oh, you could have figured something out…"

Never had he seen somebody so exicted and eager to see him. He forgot the feeling of being wanted and loved. The month he spent in the Storm Lands felt like a year, and Dany's absence had left a hole in him. The same hole that he once felt sitting on top of the Wall; missing a woman's touch or a woman's smile. The same hole he felt when he executed Ros. Daenerys Targaryen easily filled the void. Her careless expression of excitement and love, was…intoxicating, like being drunk.

Suddenly, she kissed him again with same fervor that she had before and then she just wrapped her arms tightly around his neck and rested her head on his shoulder. Both held each other in silence and in front of all the Red Keep. The only sound James heard was the wind whipping by them, and Dany's breath upon his shoulder.

"Imagine how ridiculous we look right now," James whispered into her ear. "The King and Queen kissing and hugging for the whole Red Keep to see."

"Let them look," Dany whispered back. She pulled her face from his shoulder, and stared at him, pushing a strand of hair from his face. "I don't care what they think."

James smiled and kissed her again, before setting her back on the ground. Dany flattened out her dress and stared back up at him, her eyes glowing. He had never seen her like this before. A love sick girl. It was as if they were still courting.

Suddenly, James felt her skinny arm snake around his lower back and tug him in closer to her. By now, Dany's face was flushed and he could see a tint of red in her cheeks. It was when he saw her biting her lower lip, and eyeing him with hungry eyes that he got the message. She stood on her tip-toes and whispered things in his ear that would make most men blush.

"Come," she said grabbing his hand. "I grow tired of waiting. A month is quite a long with time."

James stopped in his tracks. His mind was screaming at him, angrily.

"Not yet." he urged, Dany looked back at him and pouted.

"And why not?" she asked, crossing her arms.

"I would have a hot bath first. I'm quite dirty and then I have to speak with, Jon." James said, motioning to the mud on his clothing.

Dany titled her head to the side, and sighed. "If that is what you wish, James…"

She began to walk away when he rolled his eyes and grabbed her hand again; she whipped around to face him.

"You mistake my meaning. I would have you…you know…join me?"

"What about, Jon?"

James shrugged. "He can wait…I'd rather go with the bath."

Dany gave him a devilish smile and yanked his hand forward. Both ran towards Maegor's Holdfast and the baths. On the way over there he told her about how everything went in the Stormlands, and how Stannis promised his fleet to him. Dany was happy and then he told her about the lands themselves. It was quite windy and cold, much to their name. There was not a day James did not see rain.

When they arrived, Dany, ordered all the servants to pour hot water in with a shout and then ordered them to leave. The startled look on their faces was enough for anyone to die of laughter, and they had just seen her Targaryen temper. She wasted no time in ripping off his clothes and hers too, before getting into the bath. Dany untied her braid before slipping into the water, quickly and then extended her hand out to him. James watched the hot fumes rising from the water and he noticed it was too hot. Sometimes he forgot Dany's immunity to anything hot; the blood of the dragon within her. Reluctantly, he grabbed her hand and stuck his foot in. Before he knew it, he was in and the water felt relaxing. It was hot but not scolding and it smelled of flowers.

James felt his whole body relax as he stuck his head under the water; letting the water fill his mouth. When he broke the surface he saw Dany sitting on one side of the tub, her arms crossed under her breast's, and her wet silver hair pulled back. James slicked back his wet hair with his hands and spit the water at her face. Startled, Dany screamed and tried to hit him, but he laughed and stuck his head underneath again. When he opened his eyes underneath the water he saw two hands reaching for him, so he pushed himself back and moved away from them. He broke the surface again and took a moment to relax against the wall of the tub. James blinked the water out of his eyes and slicked his hair back again; then he looked at Daenerys to see if she had moved at all. She was now sitting opposite him on the other side of the tub. Staring at him with glaring, yet angry eyes but it was mixed in with affection and wanting. Her hands still crossed under her chest.

Both stared at each other for a few minutes, when he began to hear a humming coming out from Dany, it was more of a pout than anything else. James knew what she wanted, but he felt like making her wait a few more minutes. Being the impatient person she was, Dany slowly moved her way through the water and straddled him without saying a word. James stretched his arms out and placed them on the brim of the bath, as Dany reached over for the bar of ivory soap and began to scrub at his hair, chest, and shoulders with remarkable fervor. James closed his eyes and let his head fall back, wantonly, as she continued to scrub.

"We need to talk." She finally said, the bar of soap moved across his chest.

"About what?" James mused, he wondered what he had done.

"It's about, Jon."

"What about him?"

Dany stopped scrubbing and looked at him, her violet eyes revealing that the topic of conversation was not good. James found himself beginning to worry.

"He has began to grow close to a certain…" She paused, placing a hand on her chin. James could tell she didn't know how to continue with this. "To a certain someone, James."

"Arianne, I hope. We need those spears, Dany."

James noticed her swallow a lump in his throat.

"It's not, Arianne."

James felt himself shoot his eyes open and stare at her in confusion. He knew that Jon and Arianne had formed something of a relationship, since last he left them, and they looked somewhat in love. But this was news to him. How much, exactly, had changed since he was gone. He felt like he had been gone for years and not a meer month.

"Who is it?" he asked, as Dany returned to scrubbing. Her hands now splashing water upon his chest, and he watched the suds moving down into the water.

"Sansa…"

"Sansa?" James asked, in shock.

Dany nodded. "Yes, those two have grown close these past few weeks. Arya has tried to coax them both out of this, but Jon has been quite stubborn about it. Sansa seems to be quite enamored with him. Some would call it love, James."

James said nothing. The shock must have been plain on his face because Dany just smiled and wrapped her arms around his neck. She kissed him to bring him out of his thoughts.

"The fool!" he finally yelled. The word echoed across the walls of the bath. Dany just stared at him with her arms still around his neck.

"Does he know that puts his betrothal with, Arianne in jeopardy? We need the Dornish, Dany. We need the-"

"-I know." She finished for him, she cupped his face. "Trust me, we all know. However, they both refuse to see the light of day. Arianne is either blind to see how close they have become, or just simply ignores it."

"This is wrong," James said, the disgust clear in his voice, "they are practically brother and sister. It would be like Cersei and Jaime."

"But they aren't, James." Dany corrected. "Jon and Sansa are only cousins, in truth. And neither of them were close as children. It seems adulthood has changed them. I mean, Tyrion told me that his father Tywin and Joanna were cousins."

James scoffed. "Are you suggesting that you are ok with this?"

Dany shrugged. "I'm not suggesting anything but I do admit they look cute together. It wouldn't be so bad to see them both happy."

"What you are suggesting is incest, Dany. An abomi-"

Before he could finish he found her eyes locked with him, her lips formed a thin line. James could tell she was angry, but didn't know why. That is when it dawned on him.

"Right," was all he said. "Your parents…I'm sorry, Dany."

She stared at him angrily for a moment, and pressed her forehead against his.

"Jon needs to marry, Arianne." James said in a whisper. "We need this marriage to go through."

"Speak to him then," Dany suggested. "Mayhaps he will listen to you."

"A man in love often doesn't listen…"

"A fact well known."

James sighed. "And who will Sansa listen to?"

"I'll try and talk to her and hopefully she will listen." She replied, kissing him between each word.

"Enough of this talk," James urged. "Thinking about this has made me sick, and I just want to relax."

"Well let me help you…" Dany said. Her voice in a seductive tone.

She placed a small kiss on his ear and one on his cheek. James closed his eyes and smiled before pushing her away, he wanted to make her suffer.

Dany pouted. "What are you doing?"

"Making you suffer," he said, raising an eye brow.

She leaned in again and tried to kiss him, but he pushed her away. James felt a laugh begin to tumble out of his lips. He noticed the anger rising in her, and it made him laugh more. Dany pouted and leaned in again, but this time her hand went down below and roamed underneath the water. James felt his breath hitch and his head fall back, he couldn't form a defense this time. He grunted and gathered her in his arms, placing her on top of him, and she moaned when he entered her. Slowly, she began to move her hips in a rotating motion as both said nothing to each other. James cupped her breast's and took one in his mouth before he placed them on her hips, as she continued to ride him; his thrusts meeting her hips. James had never wanted her or loved her so much than in this moment. And as soon as it began, it ended, and he found himself releasing his seed inside her, his head falling forward and then falling back. Waves of pleasure crashed over him, and he felt Dany clutch his shoulders, digging her nails into them. With a thud she fell against him and placed her head on his shoulder. The smell of her wet slicked back Targaryen hair permeated through his nostrils, both spent a few minutes recuperating. James sat her on his lap, and wrapped his arms around her, as they sat there in the now warmer water.

"I love you." James whispered.

"I love you, too."

"I really did miss you, Dany."

"You told me you weren't going to…"

"I lied."

Dany chuckled. "I can see that."

"We need the Dornish, Dany." James finally said, it worried him now more than ever.

"I know we do."

"You must convince, Sansa."

Daenerys slipped her hand in his. "I can only try."

Before remained in silence for a little bit, taking in the ambience.

"I've been thinking…" Dany said, her voice thick with curiosity.

"About what?"

"Jon and Sansa."

James rolled his eyes. "What about them?"

"Don't you think, Sansa deserves some love?"

James snorted. "Yes, of course I do. Her of all people. Just not with, Jon."

"But why?" Dany asked.

"Because it just isn't…right. Both of them grew up together in Winterfell, and I saw them grow before my eyes. It would be weird for me to see Jon drape a Targaryen cloak on her back."

"Just give it some thought, James. After you see them together and how close they've become."

James mused the idea. "Tonight, at dinner…I will. We shall see, Dany."

"Arianne is supping with a friend of her fathers tonight, so they will be less reserved around each other."

"One more thing though."

"What?"

"How did this exactly happen?" James asked, "Did Jon and Arianne grow apart or?"

Dany sighed. "I'm not sure what happened. I think they both just grew closer, Jon and Sansa. I know that Jon has been busy with pleas and Sansa with Ned. Arya with the kids. It seems that Jon and Sansa found company with each other."

"That still doesn't answer my question…what about Arianne?"

"According to Arya, who has spoken to Jon, she claims that Jon has felt that Arianne has become distant, so to speak. He says that Arianne has changed in some way, and he can't fully trust her." Dany leaned her head back. "I don't know."

"That is troubling. But still, we need to talk to them."

"And we will," Dany finished.

The laid there in silence for a few moments before they jumped out of the bath and washed off, as both put their clothes back on. The respite was much needed as was Dany's touch. Having sex with her cleared his mind and gave him the second wind he needed. It was relaxing on both ends. Both dried off their hair and walked out of the door. James felt her pull him in quickly for a last long kiss, before both parted ways. He had to go speak with Jon in his solar and write ravens to all the Lords of the Stormlands. Jon would want to know how everything went, and James hoped to catch up with him about life and...Arianne. This business with Sansa had to end and James knew it wouldn't go well. Both of them could end up hating him by the end of this.

Both beyond the state of caring who sees them, they remained kissing in their water drenched hair. Hands raking up and down each other. James would never had been this open with affection in the past, but he didn't care now. Let them look, let them scoff, James thought as he felt her fingers dip inside his breeches.

Suddenly, he heard the sound of a clearing throat, which broke them apart from their embrace. It was Jon and Sansa, both standing there in the middle of the corridor. Both of them were staring at either the ground or the ceiling, trying to forget what they had just seen. James noticed Jon's hand brush against hers. He and Dany stepped apart in embarrassment.

"Hello," James finally said, after a few moments of awkward silence. He heard Sansa giggle.

Dany was apprehensive and he could tell she just wanted to leave.

"I'll see you at dinner." James said, as she nodded and walked away.

"Well that was awkward to see." Jon said after Dany was out of ear shot. James wondered how he felt about seeing him with his aunt…never had he thought about that once.

"Sorry about that."

"No need to be sorry, James." Jon replied, as Sansa ran over to James and hugged him. It brought him back to being an older brother again. Thoughts of her and Jon together ran through his mind, as he looked down and stared at the top of her head. He shook them off.

"It does me good to see you again." She said, stepping apart from his embrace.

"As it does me too, Sansa. I see that you are permanently living here now."

She chuckled. "Well with mother and Bran trapped at Moat Cailin and Rickon with Myrcella in Winterfell. I have no where to go."

"You can stay here as long as you like."

"I know," she said, "Plus, I can't bring myself to leave Ned."

Or leave Jon, you mean.

James laughed to himself. He knew that his son had grown close to Sansa, as he knew he would. His sister had a protective maternal sense to her that he knew she'd be a great mother. James just feared of what would happen after she left. Ned was probably attracted to that and her beauty.

"As I don't think he could leave you."

"So, what are you going to do now?"

James cleared his throat. The straggling strands of water trickled down his face, and his hair had soaked the collar of his doublet.

"I would retreat to my solar and write ravens to the Storm Lords. In fact, Jon, why don't you join me in about twenty minutes…I would catch up on what is going on."

And why you were holding our sisters hand.

Startled, he looked to James and nodded. "Sure, I have listened to all of todays pleas already."

James made his way to the solar and opened the door. The solar looked like it had not been touched since he had been gone, and he walked over to the drapes and opened them to let some light in. He then moved over to the table and sat down, beginning to flatten out the parchment, while dipping the quill in ink. James began to write out a letter to each of the Storm Lords, one-by-one. He had to thank them for their hospitality and their loyalty. Hopefully they would stay true to their word and send their men-at-arms to the capital. James knew that they had only two-thousand Targaryen and Stark soldiers in the capital, along with the now four-thousand Gold Cloaks. However, Tyrion had warned that the Gold Cloaks could not be trusted and would run at any sign of losing. James hoped it would not come to that.

At times, he would think about what would happen if Aegon were to successfully take the city. Certainly he knew he'd be killed and so would the rest of the court, except the women. James did not know what he would do with Dany and the kids…he didn't want to think about it. James rolled out a new parchment and began to write his raven to Stannis Baratheon. A man that he was apprehensive about trusting. He didn't know if Stannis could be trusted, when he talked to James there was something about his demeanor that he could not trust. He knew that Stannis had always been a serious man, but he seemed somewhat nervous to talk to him, as if he had some secrets to tell. James hoped that for the good of there realm, Stannis did not betray them. While he was there he also saw his ward, Tommen. The boy had grown into a lean tall man, with the Lannister looks. He looked so much like, Jaime. James needed his ships and needed his men. If Bran could not move past Moat Cailin and come down south than the city would probably be lost. Even with the Dornish swords, who might not arrive in time. All depended on Stannis and Bran. If Aegon were to lay siege than the dragons would be useless, and would do more harm than good. If only there was a way to get hem in an open field, than we can duplicate the Field of Fire…

Finally, after what felt like three years, James heard a knock on the door.

"Come in."

James looked up from his letter to Stannis and saw Jon open the door. James smiled and motioned him to take a sit, as Jon sat down next to him. He poured himself a glass of water and looked down at his cup, James could tell he was nervous. Jon could not meet his gaze and whenever he tried to he came off as a child who knew he was in trouble. He probably thinks that I'am going to talk to him about Sansa. James decided to work his way from the bottom-up.

"So tell me," Jon began, "how your trip went."

"Good," James replied, meeting his gaze. "Stannis has pledged his ships to us and the rest of the Storm Lord's have rallied around, Gendry. With them and the Martell's." James paused to read his reaction, but Jon seemed ok. "With the Martell's we should be ok, everything just depends on Bran."

"Bran…" Jon muttered. "The boy is only twenty and leading a host to war. That is what gives me restless sleep at night."

"Robb was only seven and ten when he became King in the North."

Jon nodded. "What the small council has tried to figure out is why Asha would attack the north under Aegon's name. It's what has perplexed us."

James sat back and began to think. Over the past month he and Gendry spoke about this matter, with neither of them coming to a solid conclusion. Asha was an ironborn and they don't bend to anyone. Their words were "we do not sow," so why did Asha attack the north? Was it for plunder or glory? Was she trying to live up to Balon's name? However, the missing piece was why she did it for, Aegon. What does the Greyjoy women have to gain from this.

"What did Theon gain from attacking Winterfell, Jon? Why did he do it?"

Jon sat up in his chair. "Well it was for Balon's approval, of course. Theon wanted the love he had missed out on for ten years, surely you know that."

"Robb offered Balon something if he attacked Lannisport for him, if I recall. Perhaps-"

"-Perhaps, Aegon made Asha the same offer."

"Yes, but what offer? What does this squid bitch have to gain?"

"Independence…" Jon answered, the smart lad he was. "Asha stands to become Queen of the Iron Islands. To re-establish the old ways that were lost hundreds of years ago, when there were still Seven Kingdoms. It is what Balon would have wanted."

James smiled. "You smart fuck, you! That is exactly what she stands to gain. No matter how much she wants to grow a cock, Asha is still a women. I know that she would do anything to live up to her 'beloved,' fathers memory."

"But we can't let that happen," Jon pointed out. His comment bringing them back to reality, "Bran has to re-take Moat Cailin, at least."

"What he needs is to get in touch with Jojen, or Howland. The Reeds would help him out."

"Indeed. The Crannogmen would certainly help them out and could perhaps harass the Ironmen."

"Or…" Jon began. James could tell that he was thinking of a plan, the smile that tugged at his face affirmed it.

"James, pray tell me what the Targaryen words are?"

"Fire and Blood, Maester."

Jon laughed. "So why don't we reign both down upon them? We can take Viserion or Rhaegal and burn the squids out."

James slapped Jon in the back. That was perhaps the best idea he has ever come up with. How nobody thought of that in this past month is ridiculous. James felt ashamed of himself. He felt as dumb as Hodor.

"That is a brilliant idea, Jon. You could go to Moat Cailin and rain fire on them, while Bran could rush the towers while they're distracted."

Jon nodded and continued smiling. James couldn't hold his excitement in, this was the best plan he's heard in awhile. How useless this small council is. Perhaps, I should just have Jon absorb all the positions.

"Jon you should be the King!" James yelled, cutting through the silence like a knife through butter. He took the crown off and tried to place it on his head. Jon just pushed him away, both were laughing.

"I think that is an honor I could do without."

"You and Arianne should rule together!" James suggested in jest, but it really wasn't.

He wanted to see how Jon reacted to the mention of her name. James knew how to read him like a book. Immediately his smile turned into a thin line and his gaze dropped to his lap. Guilty…

"Perhaps we could!" Jon tried to jest, but it failed. He was too serious.

"I've been meaning to ask how things are going with her, by the way. I hear you two are quite enamored with each other."

Jon gave him a startled look, before nodding in approval. He was nervous. "Yes, yes, we are quite enamored with each other. I do love Ari-"

"-Sansa," James corrected, "It's Sansa you love."

James noticed as Jon's face went from a look of shock, to anger, to frustration, and then finally…to sadness. He could tell that Jon actually felt something for, Sansa; however, queer it may be. Silence was thick through the air for a few minutes, as James let him collect his thoughts and to form some sort of explanation.

"Who told you?" he finally asked. James thought it was a stupid question. "Was it, Arya?"

"I haven't even seen Arya, yet. It was Dany, who do you think?"

"Why would Dany-"

"-Because she is my wife, why else. She wouldn't keep that hidden from me, Jon. And you think I didn't see you two brushing hands in the hall. I was just hoping you'd tell me first."

Jon laughed, but it was one of mockery. "Tell you first? Why? So you can mock me and yell at me. No, I don't think I would."

James placed a hand on his shoulder. "I'm sorry for how I treated you in the past, Jon. You've been an invaluable friend, advisor, and brother…"

The last word rang throughout the air and he could tell it cut through Jon like a sword.

"Sansa is your sister, Jon. You know this isn't right."

"She isn't my sister." He corrected, his anger flashing. "Sansa is nothing but my cousin. Tywin and Joanna Lannister were only cousins."

"We aren't the Lannisters!" James reminded him, "Or have you forgotten who sired Bran's wife?"

Jon looked down at his lap; James didn't know if he felt guilty.

"You're a Stark, Jon. Me, you, and Sansa grew up in Winterfell together as brothers and sister. You know that."

"But I'am not just a Stark!" Jon yelled, "I'am also a Targaryen. They married off brother and sister for centuries! Or did you forget how Dany was sired?"

The last comment was a slap in the face, James knew, but he chose to ignore it. He wouldn't let his anger get the best of him. James sighed and drew in a breath. "Do you love her?"

Jon looked up at him, in confusion.

"Sansa, I mean."

"Yes, I do. More so than I would, Arianne."

"Gods…" James said, "I wonder how father would react to this."

"Maybe he'd be happy for both of us. Sansa and I have finally found someone."

"Perhaps," James replied, "I also wonder how my Lady Mother, Rickon, and Bran would take this."

"I think they'd be happy too, James."

James sighed. "What went wrong with, Arianne?"

"I just fell in love with Sansa instead. While you were gone, both of us were quite lonely and Arianne was always busy with her Sand Snakes; always meeting with different people in the city. Yes, we both still talked and supped, but not as much as we used to. So, me and Sansa grew close together. Plus, Arianne isn't even a maid."

"How would you know that?"

James noticed Jon blush, somewhat.

"Did you and Arianne have sex?"

Jon nodded. "Yes, we have before. It was…nice and she is quite good at it."

James laughed before pouring himself another cup of water, and drinking it in three quick gulps. It was times like these he wished for wine, but he promised Dany to cut back on that. He placed the cup on the table and stared at Jon, who was fiddling with his fingers.

"You know that we need the Dornish, Jon. We need the spears."

Jon nodded. "I know we do. I just don't want to break Sansa's heart; it has been broken so much with Willas."

"I know, Jon. But you know it is the right thing to do; before Sansa gets herself hurt and possibly you too. If we lose the Martell's, we might lose this rebellion. And if that happens than worse things might happen to my sister then a broken heart."

"I know, I know. I'll try and break it off with her before the wedding, I promise."

"Good. And once again I'm sorry, Jon. But this is for the best."

"But what about what is best for your family, James? What about them…"

James sighed and retreated into his thoughts. Both him and Jon said nothing to each other. He could tell that Jon really, truly, did love Sansa. James never figured in all his thirty years that the girl who had treated Jon with such disdain, because of him being a bastard, was the girl he had fallen in love with. Life is mysterious that way. At the end of the day he wanted to see them happy, but not at the cost of losing King's Landing…and possibly his life.

Suddenly he heard a knock on the door and both were startled by it.

"Come in."

The door creaked open, slightly and James saw Dany peek her head through. The smile from earlier was still on her face, and she was glowing. James had never seen her so happy in such a long time. He didn't know she had felt this way about him, or as much as she did.

"Happy to see me again?" James asked.

Daenerys only smiled. "It is not always about you, James," she replied, jesting "I'm here to bring you all to supper, but before that you have a visitor…"

James then heard the laughter of a child, and that is when the door burst open. Rhaella ran through and threw herself on him, laughing the whole time. It warmed his heart to see her so happy and healthy again. The little girl hardly beat the fever that almost took her life, and it got her a nickname around the Red Keep. Rhaella Feverborn. Tyrion had given her that name in jest, even though Dany wasn't sick when she birthed her, but the name stuck. James had to hear it everyday and he guessed he liked it, just as much as he did Daenerys Stormborn.

Rhaella kissed him on the mouth and laughed, when he wondered where his son was. "Where is Ned?" he asked to someone. "I'd like to see my son."

"With Sansa." Dany replied, she seemed somewhat sad.

James knew that Ned used to cling to her like a spider on the wall, but with Rhaella's poisoning and James's assassination…they'd grown apart.

"Ned still loves you, Dany. He knows you're his mother."

Dany nodded. "I know but he won't leave her side, James. He has become her protector of some sort."

"And how has Jon here managed to slip by her protector?"

Dany grew stiff as Jon turned around and shot them both looks of anger. He didn't like that jest at all, or the fact that Dany had told James.

"Well can you go get him for me, Jon? I want to see him."

Jon nodded and began to get out of his seat, when James heard the scuffling of feet in the hall. Then he saw Ned run through the door and he ran over to him. James played with his kids on his lap, when he looked up and saw Sansa in the doorway. She was smiling but her gaze wasn't on Ned, it was on Jon. Who James saw returning it in kind.

"To dinner than?" James said, standing up from his chair.

Ned ran over to Sansa, who was now talking to Jon, and James saw they were flirting. Neither of them could stop smiling at each other. Dany locked arms with James and held Rhaella's hand, as they walked to dinner.

-x-

Jon

With the Stark family dining together, Jon couldn't help but look down on his plate and not at his family. He and Sansa sat next to each other and kept to their meals, both trying not to face the obvious gazes. Jon felt an odd feeling in the pit of his stomach, it was the shame. He wasn't too embarrassed to express his feelings for Sansa, when they were in private, but when everyone was eyeing them he couldn't help it. Jon never liked showing affection publicly, and nonetheless when your whole family did not approve of said relationship only made it harder. Jon had grown close to Sansa since Jorah's vigil and when James left with Gendry for the Storm Land's it only heightened their relationship. They were free to get to know each other for the first time in their lives, and without the hinderance of all the eyes on them.

And then there was, Arianne to think about. Jon had to try and keep his relationship with Sansa secret from her too. When they first began to court he actually grew to somewhat like, maybe even love, the Dornish women. Jon loved the earthy smell of her hair and her touch. Arianne, was certainly a beautiful women and good in bed. She was a smart, savvy, and funny girl; however, Jon couldn't help but not feel the same feelings she had for him. He knew he was betrothed and his relationship with Sansa certainly dishonored himself, Sansa, and Arianne. Atleast that is what Ned Stark would have had to say. Jon was being unfaithful to his betrothed, and by Ned's words he would have been dishonorable. But he wasn't at least half respectable as Ned Stark was, and perhaps he was more Targaryen than Stark.

Then there was his Stark family to think about, and they were constantly on Sansa's thoughts too. Arya and Daenerys knew about, but that was about it. Jon wanted to keep it that way. Arya did not like it and also looked at the political side, as did Daenerys. James disproved of the relationship, not to Jon's surprise, and looked at the political side of his betrothal to Arianne instead of how Jon felt. His conversation with him in the solar went differently then he expected, but Jon realized that in some crazy way he was..right. Jon didn't want to believe it or listen but in the back of his mind he thought the same thing. They needed the Dornish, as much as Aegon needed the Tyrell's, and without their army: King's Landing wouldn't last. He just didn't want to break Sansa's heart…it had been broken too much.

Jon looked over to Sansa, who was feeding Ned his food, when he felt another gaze on him now. He looked forward and saw James stare at him for a second before returning to his meal and Dany. Jon knew he was staring at him and Sansa, possibly gauging how they would act around them. He also realized that him and Arya had been sharing glances throughout the whole meal. A few minutes passed and he looked up again, watching as James leaned in and whispered something into Dany's ear, making her laugh. Jon wondered what they were talking about. Are they talking about me? he thought, Making fun of me and Sansa, or Arianne. Then he saw him slip a hand under the table, reaching for hers and Jon forced himself not to react. For he wanted to do the same with, Sansa. What does he know. Jon couldn't stand so sit there and stare at them showing obvious affection that he wanted to duplicate with her.

That is when he suddenly felt a hand reach across his thigh, and grasp his hand, clutching it ever so tight. Jon looked down and saw Sansa's hand in his, fingers intertwined with one another. He looked over and saw her take a bite of her meal, as if nothing was wrong; Jon couldn't help but smile. Don't I deserve this? Don't I deserve to feel love as well? I've been a bastard for far too long. I deserve, a home, a wife, and a child who I can call my own. Why do only James and Arya get to have these things. Even Bran gets it too. Jon looked over and saw James staring at the both of them, but his gaze wasn't on Jon: it was on, Sansa. The same stare he inherited from Ned Stark was now on Sansa, like a bee was to honey. Jon could feel her nails dig into the palm of his hand, and she was uncomfortable. He realized that they must have been having one of those conversations through a stare, and that was all it took.

"What's wrong?" Jon asked, leaning into her ear with only a whisper.

"James knows…" she replied, quickly. Her gaze did not leave James's.

"I know he does, Sansa. We spoke of it earlier."

"You did?"

"Yes and he took it like we thought he would. He feels the same way Arya does."

Sansa sighed and returned to her meal. She of all people thought that James would understand, but he didn't. Perhaps if they stood to lose nothing, he'd agree to it, but this was different. They actually did have something to lose: their lives.

"It is good to have you home, James." Jon heard himself say, but he didn't know why. Perhaps it was just to lift the awkward tension in the air.

Sansa's fingers wrapped around his even harder. "It is good to be home, Jon. But I see much has changed. You'd think I was gone for a year…"

The nails began to dig again, and Jon felt the shame crash over him. He looked up and saw Arya stare at him with the same look. Daenerys was now silently scolding her husband for the remark, but James remained unmoved. Then Jon watched as if he were seeing it from someone else's eyes and saw his hand wrap around the back of Sansa's head. He took her in for a kiss. He didn't know why he was doing it, but it felt good. This act of rebellion was much needed and he wanted to see his brother squirm in anger; it was if he was a boy who was going against the word of his father. Sansa did not retreat from his kiss, or offer any sort of defense. It was if they could read each others minds. Her mouth tasted of spice and wine. It was a sweet taste.

Jon let go of her lips, and wiped his mouth as he saw the look of shock on her face, which eventually gave way to a smile. He looked down at his plate again before looking up; it took all his courage to do so. Everyone was speechless, and Jon could tell the anger fuming from his older cousin. He looked to Arya, whose gaze was to her plate, well knowing what was about to happen. He looked over to James who held his fork with coiled fingers; his brow was buried and face was red. Dany placed her fingers on his arm and turned him to her, kissing him to take him out of his thoughts. The kids were done already and were playing, so they didn't see the kiss. Jon saw James now stand from his seat, pushing his plate forward with disgust.

"It seems that I'am full." He said, standing up.

He threw his fork down on the table, and picked up his daughter in his arms before walking out of the room. Daenerys stood out from her chair also, and took Ned from the room, who complained about leaving Sansa. Feeling the awkward tension left in the room, Arya left with her kids as well. It was just Jon and Sansa.

"You shouldn't have done that." Sansa finally said after moments of silence.

Jon looked at her up and down. He couldn't help but notice her beautiful auburn hair and big blue eyes; he just wanted to kiss her again.

"I should not have waited so long," he finished for her. "I should have just kissed you in the hallway for them to see. I should have told James to fuck himself when he disproved of us together."

Sansa sighed. "James will come around, you will see."

"No he won't," Jon replied. "He won't and Arya too. Dany will not as well, and your mother and Bran and-"

Sansa placed a finger over his mouth, "I do not care about what they think. You are the first man that I have truly loved, Jon. We aren't brother and sister, but only cousins."

"I know, Sansa. But there is also Arianne to think about. I'am betrothed to her…"

"Than just break it off!" Sansa yelled. "Tell her how you truly feel!"

"It is not that easy," Jon insisted. "You don't think I want to! Trust me, nothing would please me more. It is just we need her brothers army, Sansa."

"I don't care!" she yelled back. Sansa did not like talking about her.

"But it is something we must face, if we are to be together."

"Then go and face it, Jon." She spat. "Go and face her. Tell her how you truly feel."

"Sansa…"

"Don't." She finished for him. Her arms were crossed under her breasts and the look of anger on her face said it all.

"Fine." Jon relented. "Tonight, I will tell her how I truly feel."

Sansa nodded and he tried to lean in for another kiss, but she pushed herself out of her chair, walking away.

Jon walked out from his chair and made for his chambers in the Tower of the Hand. Hoping to see, Arianne tonight to tell her about his feelings. The Dornish were hot-blooded women, and he knew she wouldn't take it well. Each step felt like a mile and it only made the knot in his stomach grow tighter. On the way he played out the scenario in his head a thousand times, from her crying, to her hitting him, or lashing out. Jon didn't know how she would handle it.

He finally arrived to the doors of his chambers, and slowly pushed it open. Here he hoped to collect himself some more before going over to Arianne's chambers in the solar down the hall. Jon found himself in a large, dim room with a low ceiling, lit by a pair of scented candles that flickered in holders that were cut into the wall. It was then he realized that the door had been left open, and he also never used scented candles. Arianne is already here.

"Arianne?" he called out. "I know you are here, where are you?"

"Here." She stepped out from the darkness and walked towards him. The jeweled snake coiling around her forearm, its copper and gold scales shimmering in the light.

When his gaze lingered down he found himself lose is breath, for she was completely naked in front of him. Jon stood there in silence as he studied the body he'd seen over half-a hundred times now. Her large breasts and curves made him hard.

Suddenly, she was in his arms and was taking off his clothing. Pulling his tunic over his mattered black hair, and removing his breeches. Jon held her by the hips and felt the soft skin in his fingers.

"I would have you inside me tonight, Jon." She whispered into his ear, as both stood naked in front of one another.

The Dornishmen were known for their sexual licentiousness, and their women were no different. They did not care for maidenheads and such things.

Jon took her breasts in his hands and moved over to the bed with her. Arianne whimpered and threw him down on the bed, as she climbed underneath him. Jon hovered over her and placed himself inside her. She placed her hands around his back and pulled him in closer.

"Yes, yes, my sweet. It is you I want, Jon Targaryen."

Jon dutifully pumped away, as Arianne's legs coiled around him like a snake. Her nails raked his back as he drove into her, like some animal, again and again and again, until she screamed and arched her back. Jon then felt himself spilling his seed inside her, and his head bent forward. He rolled off to the side, and both laid there recuperating.

And as soon as the waves of pleasure finished washing over him, Jon found himself in a familiar spot. The waves of pleasure he had just felt soon turned into waves of guilt and shame. For each time he made love to Arianne he always thought of Sansa afterward. The guilt was as sharp as a sword, and it never got easier. Sometimes he could see her face as he laid there in the darkness; staring at the ceiling, with only his thoughts. Does she know? Jon asked himself as he turned to the side and faced her. Does she know that at this very moment…I love another.

"What is wrong?" Arianne asked, pushing a strand of hair from his face.

Jon figured that there was no other time, than now, to tell her.

"Nothing," he replied, stroking her hair as well. Even though he still loved Sansa he had to play his part as well, so she wouldn't grow suspicious. But each stroke of her black hair only made the guilt worse, and only made him wish the hair turned auburn in his hands.

"Nothing…" She echoed him, Jon could tell she said it with disdain. "Of course that is easy to say when the one you love is with you."

"The one I love is with me," Jon replied, he felt himself grow nervous beneath her touch. She knows…

"Is she?" Arianne asked, sarcastically. "I don't see Sansa Stark here, do you?"

And there it was. Jon felt as if a man twice his size had just punched him straight in the stomach. The darkness must have covered the redness that swept across his face.

Arianne scoffed. "Did you think I was stupid, Jon?"

"No, I just didn't know that you knew."

"I have always known." She quickly replied, "My Sand Snakes have eyes too. You don't think that Nymeria hasn't seen you two hawking over each other, like wolves over a meal."

Jon stayed silent. He didn't know what else to say, or if there was anything to say. He didn't know if Arianne was about to break off the betrothal, or worse…go to Aegon.

"I'm sorry," Jon said, sounding like some child.

"Don't be," Arianne replied to his surprise. "For you are mine, Jon Snow. I will marry you as long as you push Sansa aside."

"But I don't want to…" Jon heard himself say, under his breath.

Arianne scoffed, as she sat up in the bed. "You will marry me, Jon. I'am a women grown and you will not dishonor me as you have with the Stark girl."

"I will not marry you!" he yelled back, it took Arianne by surprise.

"You will!" she replied with the same fervor, "You will marry me, Jon Snow, and you will play your part. You will break things off with Sansa or I will…"

"Or you will what?" he spat.

Arianne stayed silent, and flashed him a warm smile before placing her head on his lap. The kind of smile that is not brought out by happiness. Jon found himself stroking her hair in response, as if he was being controlled by someone else. He just wished it was Sansa on his lap, and not Arianne. Does she not deserve love too? Jon thought to himself. Arianne was older than James and had never been married, or expirenced having a child. Perhaps, she deserved to be loved as much as Jon did. He didn't know.

"Or I will leave King's Landing in ruin." She finally replied; it was then that Jon felt himself stop stroking her hair.

"I will write to my brother, Trystane, and tell him that you dishonored me. Not only will you lose his spears, but Aegon will gain them. Is that what you want, to see everyone you love die? Aegon will take this city, quick as a viper, with my brothers army included."

Jon stayed silent. He didn't know how to respond to that. Arianne, had just blackmailed him into marrying her and James' fears were being realized before his own eyes. Sansa...

"I will take that silence as a yes, Jon." Arianne replied, getting out of the bed and wrapping a robe around her.

"Good night."

Was the last thing she said before closing the door behind her. Jon flung himself downward on the bed, and brought the sheets up to cover his chest. His thoughts loomed over him, like vultures to a kill, and he knew he wouldn't rest this night. Jon knew in his heart that he loved Sansa, but in his mind he knew that he had to marry, Arianne. Or else all of King's Landing would fall. Jon Snow realized in that moment that he could never win.

AN: Wow that was probably the longest chapter I have ever written. Ok, so I hope you guys like the new Jon/Sansa arc. I'm sure you didn't expect it and neither did I. Review.