A/N: I know the updates have slowed. I promise I'm not bored or run out of ideas. Definitely neither of those. I am going to have to aim for fortnightly updates for probably the next month due to a continuation of the stuff I mentioned previously, work is stressing me and aside from cutting into my writing time it is making me a slower writer. I also have the other writing and you may see some of that soon.

Anyway this chapter returns to the West. It has been a while since I wrote these characters. I missed them. I'm not sure a lot is new information but I am leading up to something so the way I presented it has a purpose.

Chapter 94: Ser Barristan

Ser Barristan thought he felt old back in Meereen, holding out hope that Daenerys still lived and awaiting her return. Now he felt older still and even more tired. He left Daenerys in her rooms filled with finery. His queen was troubled, as troubled as he was if not even more. He saw it in her furrowed brow.

She wonders as much as I do whether she is still queen. She wonders what it means if Rhaegar's son lives.

Ser Barristan swore his service to Daenerys but that did not stop him doubting. His failures came back to haunt him. Ashara Dayne and Aegon still numbered among them even if they did appear in the flesh before him. I should have been with them in their exile. The thought felt like a betrayal to Daenerys but it did not stop him dwelling upon it.

Aegon took chambers within the fortress of Casterly Rock and his entourage joined him. Ser Brynden wisely chose to remain in the encampment outside the castle grounds along with the main force of the men who accompanied Aegon to Casterly Rock. Ser Barristan persisted in his duties to Daenerys but he felt hesitant to intrude on Aegon, not knowing what to expect from the young Targaryen.

I have not forgotten the words of King Jaehaerys.

He knew Daenerys and knew her to be fair and wise for one so young. Ser Barristan did not doubt she would do what she felt to be right no matter the cost. She is not her father. He knew no such thing of Aegon. Granted, the young man's followers seemed attached to him but Ser Barristan remembered Aerys having friends too. Aerys was charming and generous and that drew people to him before the madness set in.

Ser Barristan took his rest where he could. He did not like to sleep long and that was fortunate because he was not afforded the opportunity. Arriving in Westeros was the beginning, not the end and his duties called him after only a few hours of slumber. Daenerys wished to attend upon Aegon's camp and to speak with his allies. Ser Barristan needed to accompany her.

Aegon rode with them to the camp and Ser Barristan watched him converse with Daenerys. Aegon's eyes wandered to the dragon horn being carried awkwardly by horse. The young man appeared to care little about Daenerys bringing her own men but his gaze lingered on the horn and he did not disguise his frown well.

"How does it work?"

Daenerys' smile froze on her face. "I do not fully understand how it works. I do know that the horn is bound to me and Drogon responds to both me and the horn."

Aegon nodded. "What of the other dragons?"

Daenerys evaded the question in that way she had learned and Ser Barristan saw a flicker of annoyance on Aegon's face. He wants the dragons. Ser Barristan recalled Aegon's claim of attempted poisoning and remembered his angry outburst in his private meeting with Daenerys and it made him doubt. He needed to learn more, to know whether Aegon was prone to fits of fury and paranoid suspicions. If he were then the knight did not know what he might do but he needed to prepare Daenerys.

She has her own suspicions.

Those suspicions extended to Aegon's followers and Ser Barristan felt another surge of guilt. He knew he had to shoulder some of the blame. He told himself it was not his place and that he would tell her of her family once she was ready but he waited for her to ask and the questions did not come. Upon her return to Meereen she embraced her house words even more fervently, speaking of fire and blood and of taking back her father's throne from those who stole it.

Tyrion Lannister spoke the words that might have sounded sweeter from me.

The time for holding back hard truths had passed. Daenerys asked questions about Hoster and Brynden Tully and Ser Barristan answered every one that Aegon did not. The sellsword Lysono Maar kept close to Aegon's side before they parted company upon entering the camp. Lysono led them to the tent bearing the Tully banner while Aegon separated from them to speak with his men.

"It is best if they see me," he said in a neutral tone. "The Dornish share my cousin's grief over Quentyn's death."

A frown flickered across Daenery's face but she nodded and offered no objection. Ser Barristan remained close to her, watching carefully for threats. The dragon horn might summon Drogon quickly but it would still take some time and Ser Barristan did not intend to rely solely upon the dragon, however fearsome a threat it was. The unsullied did not stray far either, no doubt sharing his concerns.

Brynden Tully sat waiting for them. The tent only held the Blackfish and one of Aegon's kingsguard. Daenerys gave orders for only Ser Barristan and Grey Worm to enter with her. Lysono Maar included himself in their company. Ser Brynden rose and offered the sellsword a nod of acknowledgement before turning his attention to Daenerys. The smile he offered Ser Barristan upon their first meeting was absent and a wary expression replaced it.

"You have been expected in Westeros for some time Your Grace. May I offer you refreshment?"

Daenerys offered Ser Brynden one of her smiles and sat across from the knight. Ser Barristan and Grey Worm remained standing, silently keeping guard. Grey Worm held the dragon horn. Lysono sat on his own stool by Ser Brynden and Ser Barristan saw Daenerys glance at him.

"I know of your history. I am surprised you ally yourself with those who were once your enemies."

Ser Brynden laughed and paid no attention to the food set before them. "I might say the same of you. Greyjoys and Tyrion Lannister are rather odd choices."

Ser Barristan hid his feelings. Tyrion Lannister was no ally, not truly. The Greyjoys were another matter but he knew Daenerys did not trust them. She was no fool. Daenerys picked up a piece of cured meat and chewed. She did not answer immediately.

"I have not promised my allies more than they are entitled to."

The Blackfish looked sceptical. "Euron Greyjoy is a madman who wishes to be king. His brother has always been a follower. I did as my liege commanded. I do not lose sleep over the decision. I cannot say I would feel the same if my alliance were with Euron."

Dany frowned. "You allied yourself with Aegon because your liege commanded you. You speak of your niece, Arya Stark."

Ser Brynden's expression darkened. "She did not command an alliance. Arya gave the men a choice as to whether they agreed to the terms offered. She wished to have justice for her brother and her parents, for our dead king."

"Another king died in another war," Dany said softly. "Another father died and another brother."

Brynden Tully's face became stone. "There are casualties in war. The death of your father was Lannister doing, It was without honour. You might speak to the Kingslayer about that. As for your brother he chose single combat. He did not die at dinner, at a wedding." He picked up a piece of dried fruit and ate it and Ser Barristan felt a surge of relief. The talk of deaths at dinner put him on edge even though he thought the Blackfish an unlikely poisoner. Ser Brynden showed no such relief.

"The Lannisters held my nephew here, Lord Edmure Tully. I understand that he and his son live. What do you mean to do with them?"

Daenerys had a look Ser Barristan knew well. "Casualties are a part of war. There is also another side to it that I believe you know well. Lord Edmure is comfortable within Casterly Rock. His wife and son are treated far better than my family were. You may see them if you wish while they remain my guests."

Brynden Tully sat in silence. "You would keep them as hostages. We are not your enemy."

Daenerys smiled. "There are greater comforts within the castle. I mean to unite the seven kingdoms once more. It is better that Lord Edmure be my guest."

"You will kill him if I do not bend the knee."

Daenerys rose. "I do not think that will be necessary. Aegon tells me that your niece will give up the crown willingly. As you say, we are not enemies."

Lysono Maar rose to walk with them from the tent. Ser Barristan noted that the sellsword remained silent during the entire exchange. That did not remain the case once they emerged from the tent.

"I fear you make an error your grace. The Blackfish does not take ultimatums well."

Daenerys' tone was more than cold when she replied. "I made no error. Mayhaps you might tell me while you are offering counsel why the Golden Company laughed when my brother asked for aid and yet you back Aegon's cause?"

Lysono Maar appeared genuinely confused. "Did you not know? We were to join the Dothraki and Viserys first. We only heard of Aegon after your brother died. Magister Illyrio made the arrangements."

Uncertainty and more than a little pain flickered across Daenerys' face. "I will be certain to question the Magister." She strode quickly and silently through the camp, Ser Barristan keeping pace. Those watching eyed her with curiosity and some with resentment and anger, no doubt the Dornish. When they reached the horses Daenerys addressed the sellsword once more. "I will return to the castle now. Aegon may sup with me later." She handed the horn to one of her unsullied and mounted her horse quickly. Ser Barristan followed suit and did not speak until they were clear of the camp.

"The sellsword is not wrong about Ser Brynden. The man is so obstinate he remained estranged from his brother for years despite their house words."

The steely resolve Daenerys showed in the camp gave way and she closed her eyes, suddenly appearing more like the girl from Meereen. "It seemed a better course than the alternative. Hostages are a normal part of war. The threat of dragons must be kept in reserve."

Will she really kill the hostages?

Ser Barristan did not wish to ask. He suspected he knew the truth. She will not kill the child but there will be retribution. The Daenerys before him now might be reluctant to use the dragons but she would use them. The Daenerys before him now united the Dothraki khalasar and confronted the Dosh Khaleen, She had killed Khal Pono and Khal Jhaqo and every other Dothraki who challenged her in her time on the Dothraki sea. He still remembered her telling of the Dosh Khaleen trying to make her join them as a widow of Drogo.

Vaes Dothrak allows no blades.

Drogon was no blade. The gentle queen Ser Barristan knew could be fearsome and that was most evident when facing a threat to herself or her children. Aegon best realise that quickly if he has any plans to wrong her. Ser Barristan wished to ask her what she planned but upon reaching Casterly Rock he became distracted by her immediate intentions.

"I wish to speak with the Lady Ashara while Aegon is absent."

Ser Barristan knew Daenerys wanted to question Ashara. He wished to be present but part of him also feared what that fair lady might say. It wounded him to hear her tale when in the camp and to have her look upon him as having served an enemy, the man who cared little for the murder of the princess Ashara served.

He did not voice his hesitation. Daenerys proceeded straight to Ashara's chambers and the voice from within urged them to enter. Ser Barristan flushed and averted his eyes when they did pass into the room. Lady Ashara was arranging her robes and seemed to have little care for modesty.

"You wear septa's robes," Daenerys said in surprise.

Ser Barristan heard laughter in her voice when Ashara replied. "I have been a septa for so many years it feels odd to wear anything else. Aegon wishes to pray with me upon his return. It was time."

He turned to look upon her. Ashara played with the crystal she wore around her neck and his eyes were drawn to it before he flushed and raised them again. Ashara seemed to smile at his discomfort.

"I hope the Faith gave you comfort in your grief my lady."

Her brow furrowed. "Thankyou ser, I will not forget what I lost but I pray more for guidance during our current troubles than the past ones."

"When did you become a septa my lady?" Daenerys asked.

Ashara let go of the crystal and smoothed her robes with her hands instead. "I fled to Pentos with Aegon. We sheltered there in the manse of the Magister. It is not difficult to be accepted by the Faith if they view you as having been dishonoured. I let them believe Aegon was mine until I took my vows and was able to leave. The Magister made certain he was cared for."

Daenerys looked thoughtful. "You love him."

Ashara became defensive. "Aegon is a good boy. He has his mother's wit and cleverness. I am proud of the man he has become. If he was my son I could not be more proud, even if the Faith tells us that too much pride is not seemly."

Daenerys smiled gently. "I meant no offense my lady. I merely wished to know more of my kin."

Ashara took a breath and smiled her own smile. "I did not mean to appear offended. I only hope you will not judge him harshly. He has learned some very hard lessons since arriving in Westeros but he wishes to do his duty."

Daenerys took her leave of Ashara and Ser Barristan followed despite a wish to linger and know more. She embraced the dishonour of birthing a bastard. He had thought often of fair Ashara but in all his thoughts she never spoke of perceived dishonour with scorn as she had just done. Ser Barristan never imagined hearing laughter in her voice again and fire at the suggestion of criticism of her charge.

"She is not being compelled to lie," Daenerys said, cutting across his thoughts. "I must know more of Aegon's intentions. I must learn of the hard lessons Lady Ashara speaks of."

"Tyrion Lannister may know more," Ser Barristan offered reluctantly.

Daenerys laughed. "I am certain he does. He knows this castle well, even the drains."

Ser Barristan had wondered at that. "Do you think he listens?"

Daenerys wore another smile although she did not appear wholly amused. "I am certain he does. He knows far too much." She placed her hand gently on his arm. "You need more rest. You look very tired. Ser Jorah will protect me now."

Ser Barristan left her with the younger knight and did as she bade him. He did feel tired but these days that was nothing new.

He took time to rest and refresh himself. Even after he rose once more he waited, preferring to have a meal and gather his thoughts. His concerns about what type of man Aegon was mixed with Ashara's passionate defense and more than once his mind went unbidden to what he had seen of her person in her chambers. Ser Barristan reminded himself of his vows.

He steeled himself and walked down the halls to where he knew he would find Aegon. On his way he remembered Daenerys' distrust of the dwarf and the anger she felt at his impertinence and general lack of remorse for his crimes. The little man did not let it discourage him, still as bold of tongue as ever and speaking truths Ser Barristan might never have uttered. Aegon's presence made him more cunning.

When Ser Barristan arrived at Aegon's quarters the guards stepped aside to allow him entry. He did not need to fear Tyrion Lannister hiding in drains on this occasion, the dwarf sat nearby with a goblet in hand. He appeared newly arrived and tilted his head to look at Ser Barristan with his mismatched eyes.

"Here is the bold Lord Commander now."

The title caused Ser Baristan discomfort while in Aegon's presence and he sensed the dwarf knew that. Aegon lifted his head from a book and smiled. His fingers traced the writings on the page but he closed it and beckoned for Ser Barristan to join him. Ser Barristan hesitated just a moment, looking upon the young man.

There is some of Princess Elia in him but he truly looks to be his father's son.

It was more than just the hair worn long like Rhaegar's. Aegon's eyes were lighter in colour, violet like Daenerys rather than the indigo of Rhaegar's eyes. Aegon's features however were Targaryen. He smiled like Rhaegar though this young man smiled far more often than Ser Barristan remembered Rhaegar smiling. Aegon beckoned again.

"I wished to speak with you, Ser." Ser Barristan took the offered chair and felt some gratitude at not being asked to hand over his sword to the guards. He braced himself for an uncomfortable conversation. Instead Aegon smiled. "Will you tell me what you know of my family? I have heard some but not since... Lord Connington used to speak of my father. You knew King Jaehaerys and Aegon the Unlikely."

There was a hopefulness to the question which was almost endearing and not unlike Daenerys. Ser Barristan spoke and for each question he answered Aegon had more. His plans to ask questions of Aegon began to appear dashed, particularly with Tyrion Lannister making humorous observations with each tale and Aegon alternating between laughter and scowling and prompting Ser Barristan to continue.

"I do have knowledge of history," Aegon informed him, running his fingers over the cover of the book he had been reading when Ser Barristan joined him. His violet eyes were bright. "It is different learning it from one who has lived it."

Ser Barristan saw his opportunity. "I am sure you have lived through your own history too, your grace. "May I ask how you came to wear that scar?"

The smile dropped from Aegon's face. "Cersei Lannister sent Gregor Clegane after me. She has necromancers." He touched the scar with his fingers and frowned. "He was monstrous. It was an evil thing to do. I want her head. Arya might have died. Many others did die, including somebody I considered a good friend."

Tyrion Lannister was without a smile. "That sounds like my sweet sister."

"Gregor Clegane died," Ser Barristan said. "How can such a thing be possible?"

Aegon shook his head. "I do not know. It took fire to stop him. Gregor's own brother did for him."

Tyrion Lannister remained unusually silent. Ser Barristan did not quite know what to say himself. He did know he needed to inform Daenerys.

"My aunt does not trust me does she?"

Ser Barristan was caught off guard by the bluntness of the question. "Daenerys has been through trials. Men do unimaginable things upon seeing the dragons. Few who seek her now do it merely for the pleasure of her company."

Aegon nodded. "I do not solely seek her dragons. We are kin. I do not come begging. The high lords back my claim. If we unite then it will save us both a deal of trouble."

Ser Barristan saw the sense of it but he still had his own reservations, ones he knew Daenerys shared. She must be careful who she trusts with the dragons. Looking upon the young man he did wonder if he was being unfair. Am I judging him harshly to assuage my own guilt? Not all Targaryens went down the same path as Aerys, it was true.

"You are more open than I might have expected but Daenerys has had suitors before. They have made her offers before and she has been somewhat more fond of them."

Aegon's mouth twisted. "Dany is beautiful and she has dragons. I do not doubt that men made fools of themselves. I know of the sellsword." Aegon glanced at Tyrion and Ser Barristan wondered at what counsel the imp offered. "I am her kin and I do not wish for us to oppose one another."

Ser Barristan remembered him using the same words when speaking with Daenerys. "Daenerys does not wish to oppose you either."

Aegon smiled. "I have my own reasons to worry. I have not forgotten my cousin and neither have the Dornish. I will learn to know Dany but it must needs happen quickly. In the meantime I need to deal with the matter of the iron born."

Ser Barristan felt disquieted. "What is it you have planned?"

Aegon shook his head. "Lady Asha tells me her uncle Euron is mad. I sent ships to Oldtown. I did not know of my Aunt's alliance. I must hope a raven will reach them so I can delay them until Lady Asha speaks with Victarion Greyjoy. My cousin Obara will be displeased but I will insist that she heeds me."

Tyrion Lannister appeared to be gaining rather too much enjoyment from the information. Ser Barristan knew he must speak with Daenerys and with haste. The iron born assistance always felt wrong and he now began to feel it to be on even more unstable foundations.

"Daenerys does not trust them blindly," he offered.

Aegon grimaced. "Daenerys should not trust them at all. Please tell her so, Ser. I shall tell her myself when I meet her at supper."

Ser Barristan took his leave. It was all well and good for Aegon to speak of trust. The young man had tried to charm him, Ser Barristan knew. It worked to a certain extent too but trust was not so easily earned. Ser Barristan still did not know enough even if he did know more.

Daenerys will want far more before she trusts him near her dragons.

It was that thought he dwelled on as he tried to convince himself that he did not betray his duty. He had made failures in the past. Even in doing his duty to Aerys, in obeying those commands, his conscience bothered him. Ser Barristan served the mother of dragons and the dragons would decide the matter, one way or another.

A/N 2: The next chapter will visit the Wall because that is long overdue. After that I have an Aegon chapter planned then I'll return to the sisters (and Jaime) for a chapter.