A/N: Longclaw: Sups guys. Another chapter for everyone, and this one's a doozy.

Bruh: Hey people. Thanks for showing up.

But, enjoy.

Chapter 56: Exactly

Jon rounded a corner, peering around. He set his eyes on Missandei walking ahead. He picked up his own pace to catch up with her. He'd been searching for her and had been unable to find her for over an hour. She had much to do he gathered.

"Lady Missandei," Jon smirked and he got up next to her.

"Lord Stark," she replied. They continued walking.

"I've been looking for you."

"Is that so?"

"Aye. I've - well… Since it seems the majority of Daenerys' Small Council would rather see the end of me seemingly. I decided it might be warranted to speak to you," Jon said. "I'm not certain where we stand."

"You are a man that invokes the most divergent attitudes, Lord Stark."

A brow raised as he stared at Missandei of Naath, Jon could only manage to smirk slightly. "I remember little, but what I do recall of my past it is not a recent problem of mine, Lady Missandei."

The translator and closest friend of Daenerys' only chuckled, a light expression obvious on her face. She liked few and trusted fewer, but if they could walk through the colonnaded walkways of Dragonstone together - enjoying a beautiful view of Blackwater Bay beyond and the dragons circling high above - then he felt himself one of the privileged few to earn both achievements. "Why does that not surprise me?"

"I am told that the mother of my half-siblings did not like me, even as most of them and my own father adored me."

"While the concept of bastardy baffles me as a Naathi, as a learned woman in the Queen's service I can understand why the wife of your father would feel threatened by you. The Blackfyre Rebellions put a… dark stain on bastards."

Jon rolled his eyes. "I do remember something about Lady Catelyn Stark… The name of Daemon Blackfyre came up in that. Gods, I wasn't going to usurp my brother. I don't need any memories to be sure of that fact."

"You love and are loyal to your family, my Lord. Losing your memory didn't kill this inside you." Missandei eyed him as they slowly walked, attractive dark eyes scrutinizing him with an intelligence hidden by her facade of subservience - Jon could appreciate how she, and by extension Dany, used the tendency to underestimate this former slave. Clearly, she was more intelligent an advisor than Tyrion thought he was. "The question is whether that extends to our Queen?"

He noticed how her gaze narrowed, growing firm behind her facade. "Trying to delve into my intentions too, Lady Missandei?"

She cocked her head. "I may not assume ill intent as Lord Varys or Lord Tyrion, but I must ask."

"A far less physically threatening than Ser Jorah, I take it." No less dangerous though. Missandei could have him fed to the dragons if he slipped up. Not that he minded being fed to a hungry Daenerys… "Do not worry. Her Grace is as much family as my siblings."

"How do I believe you, Jon Stark, since I do wish to for her Grace's sake?"

"An interesting question." He stopped, leaning against the stone battlement while Missandei crossed her arms over the simple white gown that contrasted quite alluringly with her dark skin - this Unsullied commander was a very lucky man. "One I cannot answer you just yet."

She blinked. "Pardon?"

"You heard me, my Lady." He grinned. "But I ask you not to trust me, just to trust your Queen."

Narrowing her eyes, eventually, Missandei snorted. "Well-played, Lord Stark." Now she chuckled. "Her Grace is very much taken with you."

"I should hope so for my sake… I sometimes have nightmares of a jilted lover setting her dragons upon me."

"The risk of falling for the Dragon Queen," Missandei chuckled further. "Just love her, and be faithful if you are loyal." She cocked her head. "Men tend to have a wandering eye in my experience… they earn the love of one but desire others in close proximity."

He felt there was an unsaid question there. "While I find you greatly attractive, Lady Missandei, if you are offering I must refuse. As good of a swordsman I am, I'd rather not risk the spear of your Unsullied if I don't have to."

She seemed taken aback, only to laugh. "Even I underestimated you, Jon Stark. Well-played, well-played, indeed."

"Lady Missandei." Both tilted their heads to see the Queen's official lady-in-waiting, Lynesse Hightower. Unlike the very wealthy reputation of her house, she was dressed simply in a green gown, hair pulled up in a gentle crown of braids with a gold chain with a single ruby dangling from her neck.

Missandei turned from Jon to address her. "Yes, Lady Lynesse."

"A raven from Driftmark. Lord and Lady Velaryon are seeking arrival on Dragonstone to meet with her Grace."

"Have you discussed this with Ser Barristan?"

"Yes, and he's accepted it, but we need to prepare for how to receive them…"

A shake of the head. "No feasts… Her Grace doesn't wish to waste the resources… but she will host a private reception with Lord Velaryon and his wife. No more than ten places in the private dining chamber."

She nodded. "I shall make the arrangements myself. Thank you, my Lady."

Turning, Lynesse briskly walked back into the keep, leaving Missandei and Jon alone once more. Missandei sighed. "Gods, I am only glad she and Ser Jorah keep their distance from each other."

"History there?"

"She was his wife."

"Ah… I need not know the rest to make a determination," he replied. "Daenerys fought with the Hightowers - do you feel her a threat?"

"I feel everyone a threat to her, Jon Stark, but varying degrees. She gave the Hightowers mercy, and so far they haven't done anything." Missandei leaned against the wall. "Best to keep her close I suppose, keep them worried of the future and more likely to keep in line. Her Grace wishes for Lord Baelor's younger brothers and later his sons to be fostered in the capital once we take it."

"Ensure that it isn't a prison for them and more of a fostering. You wouldn't wish to breed a long-lasting resentment."

"Why Lord Stark, I hope you don't think me as simple as certain others." Both shared a laugh at that.

After parting ways with Missandei, Jon arrived back in his chambers. "Lord Stark," rose Ser Jaime, bowing - and only half-sarcastically. "I was wondering when you'd arrive."

"So when did her Grace's bloodriders bring you here?"

Jaime grunted. "Since before the crack of dawn." He rolled his shoulders. "Haven't truly been up that early since my squireship, and Lord Crakehall was an unforgiving teacher."

"Indeed." He sat down.

"How long have you been up, considering I was greeted with empty chambers?"

"Since before you."

"Barely sleep?"

"I never sleep… least not now."

A grin. "Deprived of the warmth of your companion?" At Jon's icy stare he raised his good hand. "Just an observation. I can speak from experience as to that fact." He sighed. "A tortured soul only rests in death or the arms of a lover."

"And your lover was your sister if I recall correctly."

"I am sure you should judge me for it, considering the honor of your House."

"Certainly," Jon replied. "It is very clear your sister didn't love you nor respected you. So if there was any comfort it was solely one-sided."

Jaime opened his mouth to respond, only for nothing to come out. He instead chuckled dryly. "I have yet to understand how you work inside, Jon Stark."

It was Jon's turn to snort. "Many people have said that to me lately, even those that love me." It wasn't that he wished not for Arya, Sam, or Daenerys to understand him - he loved them, though to varying degrees. But he wasn't sure he could explain it even if he wanted to.

Only Aemon seemed to instinctively understand him, and he was dead now. Gods help me… Aemon, I wish you were here.

He sighed, forging ahead regardless. "Do you know why I sent for you?"

"Besides her Grace, whom I assume you told, I am the only person on this damned island that knows of your true intent, so I believe you wish for counsel as to go forward."

Jon nodded. "Peace is at hand, Ser Jaime. I can taste it and hope not for it to be squandered."

"You care for Stannis, don't you?" Without anything left, it was clear Jaime had no issue with being aggressively blunt. "Not as much as the Queen, obviously - he doesn't have the parts she has," Jon's glare seemed to make him laugh. "But you do not wish him to come to harm."

Hanging his head, Jon allowed himself to nod. "He raised me from my station, I fought for him… perhaps he is the surrogate father I obtained after mine was killed."

Jaime didn't judge. "Eddard Stark was close to Stannis - not the same brotherly affection as he had with Robert but there was clear respect between them. Stannis… he's a smart and just man, but no one holds love for him. Without all the lies and assumptions they would choose Daenerys over him no matter what. He loses a long war, while Daenerys can do no worse than a draw." He tapped the table. "You doing this is the best that he can realistically pry out of the Queen and if she's willing, you're doing them both a favor."

Pulling out a scroll from the desk, he unfurled it and began to scribble words down… not in his best calligraphy, but he didn't intend this to be the copy he sent to Stannis - merely to jot his thoughts down.

As such, the finished first draft was done quickly. "Here." He handed it to Jaime. "Your thoughts?"

King Stannis,

I believe I can sway Queen Daenerys and her small council. For the most part, they are against me. However, I've convinced them that this way leads to the least bloodshed possible. This is true. But I know that Daenerys doesn't want to retreat, seeing as she has come so far. Yet I mentioned to her that Westeros will accept her more readily if she isn't bringing the country to heel with her Dragons as her ancestors did.

Jon paused writing for a few moments, pondering before continuing.

At the very least, I believe I can get them to agree to a parlay. In which you can iron out the specific details with Daenerys face-to-face. She listens to me, as we suspected. As to your suggestion of marriage, I am open to it. Though your invitation to be your Lord Commander would honor me greatly.

Our plan of 'seduction' proved essential. I was able to get close to her easily. I have her ear and my position there can only grow.

I pray I may see you soon. And peace is close at hand.

Lord Stark

Pursing his lips, Jaime read the lines one by one before he set it down. "I should only hope none but the Queen know what is in these contents. They… do not put your loyalty in a good light."

"I am loyal to both, but will choose Daenerys if need be."

"But you don't wish to need to be, which is the purpose of this letter…"

Jon sighed. "Daenerys knows… at least I've told her my strategy. Stannis trusts me, and if I must convince him that I am trying to seduce my love to ensure she accepts the peace then so be it. I've spoken to her at the length of this and she understands." Truthfully, he and Dany shared much humor over the nature of it - how she was forced to 'punish him' when confronted with his intended misdeeds and manipulation of her.

He smiled at the memories. One of the few good ones he had left. Most of those involved Daenerys.

Finally looking back at Jaime, the latter was glaring at him. "I don't even want to know." The fallen knight shook his head. "If her Grace trusts you and knows what you're doing, then the letter is worth sending. I think Stannis will accept, but you'll have to go visit him in person. He'll need to see evidence of your sincerity in regards to him to trust you, given he is sacrificing much as well."

"I have spent enough time away from Daenerys… I cannot leave her."

"If you're confident in your plan, then you won't be long without her, Lord Stark."

Jon leaned back, looking up at the ceiling as he pondered what Jaime was saying… not knowing that there were eyes upon both of them.

Especially in regards to that draft ravenscroll. The Queen had been right long ago - no one noticed the handmaids, and all it required was for Lord Stark and Ser Jaime to leave the chambers for one particular handmaid to find what she was looking for.

A somewhat secret family meeting took place in Winterfell's Great Hall. Arya had called it, deciding it should be early in the morning, before sunrise. She had become slightly paranoid as of late with the possibility of being watched by ravens. The idea of being listened to and watched at all times did not excite her in the slightest.

Bran, Sansa, and Rickon sat at the long table. Arya stood in front of them. Silent in the room, except for the crackling of the hearth behind the table.

"Jon sent me a ravenscroll," Arya began. "Sorry for not mentioning it sooner but my mind has been scrambled by it." She pinched the bridge of her nose. "I wasn't sure what to do - I'd show it to you but Jon asked that I burn it after reading, which I did." Arya continued. Their face was impassive, but inside they were paying attention more closely. "Jon was talking with an old Maester named Aemon on his death bed. Jon asked the Maester some questions. Basically, the letter says that Podrick may have been attacked by a warg. Or at least that's what Aemon said."

Sansa frowned, "A warg?"

"What's that?" Rickon asked.

"Not entirely sure," Arya sighed. "I called this meeting because I thought Bran might have some insight for us." Everyone turned to Bran, to which they replied back with a blink and furrowed brows. "Can you tell us anything about wargs, Bran?"

"What would you like to know?" Bran finally said, knowing it was time to engage with their companions.

"Anything, really," Arya shrugged.

Bran Stark's family would be inquisitive, dangerously inquisitive. Best to give them something. "Wargs can 'see' through the eyes of other things. Typically animals. Some Starks in history have been able to warg into their direwolves."

"Truly?" Rickon seemed very intrigued in that fact.

"What happens when they… warg?" Sansa asked.

"They have some level of control over the animal. They see what the animal sees."

"How do you know all this?" Sansa asked.

"Because I am a warg myself."

Sansa and Rickon seemed surprised. But Arya was unmoving. "Yes, I figured that might be the case," she said.

"You are able to control animals?" Rickon said. "Like direwolves?"

"I've controlled Summer… before he died." Both Sansa and Rickon appeared with sympathy for him - good, they wouldn't pry. "Warging was very difficult and only into Summer, while I can see things through the eyes of Summer, for instance."

"Are animals the only thing a warg can control?" Arya asked Bran, slightly firmly. "What about people?"

Bran stared blankly at Arya, "Are you accusing me of being responsible for Podrick's death?"

Sansa gasped, covering her mouth. Arya spoke, "I don't know. Did you do it? You're the only warg I've ever met or heard of. Wargs are the only people we know that are capable of controlling people. Making them do things against their will?" Her eyes narrowed, arms crossed. "Like try to kill Sansa."

"Arya, that's enough," Sansa cried, already growing emotional as she clutched her belly - just beginning to show.

"I was just asking a question." Arya was unrepentant. "He's our brother - if he has nothing to hide then he has nothing to fear from his loving sister."

They were playing a very dangerous game, skirting dangerous ground before they were strong enough - but love for Bran Stark consumed all of them. That was their saving grace. "I find it hard to warg outside of animals that are not Summer… most wargs struggle in that regard, which is why they always have bonded animals." They remembered a moment from Jon Stark's past. "Jon was injured by one, who used an eagle as his bonded companion."

"So you haven't warged into anything else?"

"Rats, mice… an owl once. Nothing so difficult and willful as a human, sister." They tried to give what they felt was a good approximation of a sardonic comment. Human emotion other than rage wasn't their strong suit, but from the relaxing Arya, it seemed the gambit worked. "Rest assured, we were not the one."

"Alright." Arya sighed, looking sad and apologetic. "Forgive me, Bran. I just had to be sure."

Sansa sighed. "We're all in the same boat… fearful and surrounded by enemies. These people within these walls plus Jon are the only ones we can trust."

Fools.

They neglected to reveal the full berth of their sight. Mostly because they'd fail to comprehend it. But also it would reveal too much. Their greenseer abilities. They had seen the past, present, and future. Even different and varying futures that had yet to come to pass. How little decisions cascade into larger changes that cause a separate reality. Sometimes, they had issues figuring out which path they were set on. They knew of every event that might happen but not which event. They've been attempting to steer this reality to the future in which they get everything they want. In the future they'd seen, this meeting went exactly the same. They loved the ease in which Arya believed them without thinking too hard about it.

Nodding, Arya took a deep breath before continuing where she had left off, to which they simply quieted down and listened - not a hard task. "In the letter, Jon mentions something that he learned that may help us get to the bottom of this."

"Okay, what is it?" Sansa asked.

"He mentioned he heard of a diary that a Lord Commander of the Night's Watch wrote. I forget his name. But apparently, it's stashed in Castle Black somewhere," Arya said. "Jon said it had some information in there that would help us."

Bran was normally completely still at all times. Yet, they froze stiller. This was not something that they had seen before. Arya had never done this in any reality they'd seen. Which meant it was the first-ever occurrence. An extremely rare happenstance. Which meant they weren't at all ready for this. That diary contained several secrets that were supposed to stay hidden. If that information came to light it would be never bad for them.

They were not immediately sure what to do about it. This was not supposed to happen. They were not prepared. No one was supposed to know about that diary.

This had changed everything.

"A diary?" Sansa asked.

"Aye," Arya shrugged. "It might just be a really old book. Perhaps it's not important at all. But it's a lead and it could help us. So, Gendry and I are leaving tomorrow."

"I don't think you should go," Rickon said, worried Arya may get hurt, also generally didn't want her to leave. "Bran and Sansa, tell them they shouldn't go."

"Well," Arya crossed her arms. "I think I need to go."

"There's no other way," Bran spoke. "There may be a greater warg than me with vile intentions."

"Maybe the diary names this evil warg that attacked me," Sansa said.

"It's possible," Arya nodded.

Thankfully, Bran had figured out what to do about this. "However, Sansa, you should send the Brotherhood Without Banners with them for protection."

"The Brotherhood?" Arya frowned. "Gendry and I don't meddle well with that group." Gendry had surely not forgotten being sold off to The Red Woman. Neither had Arya.

Bran gathered that since this was the first time occurrence that they should try to steer it into familiar territory. But that meant that any actions they made could be made without fully knowing what would happen next. Usually, they are fully aware of all consequences ahead of time. Yet, they had to do something.

In one reality they'd seen, Arya and Gendry left with the Brotherhood on a hunting expedition. They volunteered for the Brotherhood now because there were some loose ends that needed to be tied up there as well. Might as well try to end all of this at once. It was a tough journey for them, heavy snow came out of nowhere, and some people didn't come back. Occasionally, they are attacked by wolves as well. Bran would try to get a similar conclusion. A best-case scenario is they never reach Castle Black at all.

"It might be good to have a larger group, Arya," Sansa relented. "It's a long journey north."

"Wolves…" Bran began and then trailed off. A mistake. Something that happens when they are forced to think on their feet. Normally they know exactly what to say. "You may have an encounter with wolves."

"Yes, wolves, protection will help with wolves," Sansa agreed. "The Brotherhood should go with you. They've been sitting around just eating all of our food regardless. Better they clear out for a while."

"I don't like it… But alright."

Likely, Bran would need to figure out a way to have them might an end on the way to Castle Black. Or at least force them to turn back.

Nevertheless, Arya could not get her hands on that diary. They would stop her by any means necessary.

Sansa said, "Did Jon's letter say anything else we should know?"

"Oh, yes, I nearly forgot," Arya raised a finger. "We should get Wolkan to research this. Jon said that Maester said this warg might have a name."

"A name? I suspect that might be useful finding out who it was," Sansa scoffed. "What is it?"

"The Raven."

Bran had never seen this moment either. Arya had said their name. Their true name. Two first occurrences in this timeline, they were stunned.

Arya continued, "I know this might be true as well. I noticed a flock of raven eyeballing me on the ramparts. Sent chills down my spine."

Sansa turned to Bran, "What do you know of this, Bran?"

Bran was silent for a few moments.

Then they said, "Nothing."

A meeting had been called in Dragonstone, to the Painted Table. Jon and Dany - already having been… talking together, and hopefully no one would notice her swollen lips - headed in that direction through the halls. Her Dothraki strolled behind. "What could this be about?" Dany asked.

"Can't ever guess," Jon huffed. "Could be anything. I suspect they plan to accuse me of something like usual."

"That wouldn't surprise me," Dany rolled her eyes.

"Nothing surprising me too much these days," Jon agreed. "Except how much I love you."

It was low enough so only Dany could hear it, and she took advantage of their general solitude to peck his cheek. Jon couldn't wait for the moments when he could be as affectionate as he wanted with her. He needed it to fully heal.

They reached the door to the Painted Table room and the Unsullied standing by it opened both double doors for them. Entering the room, everyone was already there waiting for them. Dany took her seat at the head of the table like normal. Jorah flanked Dany behind her to the right.

While Jon waited nearby the door, peering over the room. He eyed Tyrion, who waved at him eerily.

Dany clasped her hand on the table, everyone watching her. "What is this about? Apparently, it's important?"

"Oh, it is, Your Grace," Tyrion said, almost giddy.

Varys rose from his seat. "Lord Tyrion and I have called this meeting for a very urgent issue," he said.

"We have uncovered essential evidence that unearthed Jon Stark's treachery," Tyrion added.

"What is it now?" Dany sighed, tired of going around and around about this.

Varys reached into his sleeve and pulled out a ravenscroll. He held it up as it unfurled. "This letter, written by Jon Stark, describes in detail his exact intentions here."

Tyrion put a finger up, "His true intentions."

Jon threw his head back and sighed, "Well, my supposed private correspondence is no longer private."

"What have you two done?" Dany scowled

Varys handed the letter to Tyrion. He held it up, moving it around so everyone could look at it. Then passed it to Ser Barristan, next to him. "This ravenscroll describes the treachery that Jon Stark has been sowing in this castle. Exactly as I have said he was. Exactly."

Barristan's eyes scanned over it, his expression was quite grim. "Aye, it does seem that way."

"What in Seven Hells," Jon said, eyeing widening, then realizing. He half-laughed, "You stole my letter!?"

"Lifted it," Varys corrected. "From your chambers, yes. We decided it was worth reading for ourselves."

Tyrion smiled, "And it was."

"Lifted? How?"

"Well, I have my ways," Varys said.

It only took Jon a few moments to realize. "So, it was handmaidens then." Varys' face was expressionless, he only shrugged. "You are your handmaidens."

Daenerys sighed, filing that away for later. "You stole his letter. Jon was supposed to be given unadulterated access to ravenscrolls without our prying eyes. Those were diplomatic correspondence!"

"I decided that it was worth breaking a rule to confirm or deny my suspicions. If I had been wrong then we would've returned it and we would've never spoken of this again," Tyrion explained.

"You decided? What exactly are you allowed to decide?" Dany seethed.

"Your Grace," Barristan cleared his throat. "I understand your… disgust with the way they procured the letter. But, it does describe Jon Stark's true purpose here."

Dany paused, eyes glancing at Jon but not long enough for anyone to notice. Jon was already looking at her so he saw it, of course. Unsure what to do about this, he decided to let this play out until he had a good opportunity to defend himself. Unfortunately, this was a heavy blow. Tyrion could try and have him thrown from a cliff over this.

Imagining his beloved ordering it done left his soul in agony… but he dare not look at her.

After a pregnant pause, it was Dany who spoke next, after not saying anything for several moments. "What does the letter say?" she asked quietly. She had seen the letter that Stannis had most recently written to Jon. However, if this was one newly penned by Jon, she had no real knowledge of it. He had mentioned he would reply promptly, and the tactics he planned to use to get Stannis to agree. Truly Daenerys knew what he had to do, given weeks of discussion over it.

But as to the letter he had just written, nothing specific word-wise of the content had been communicated. Given the severity of Tyrion's tone, she suspected Jon's writings could be taken directly in opposition to her. Even if he was totally on her side.

Barristan cleared his throat, "Your Grace, perhaps it's better if you read it yourself." He held it up in the air. Missandei walked over and grasped the letter, walking back toward Daenerys. Her eyes cast over the letter as she moved. A quick scan had her face snapping to Jon in confusion. Jon just slowly shook his head in response.

The translator's response was not positive, but not negative either. Perhaps she understood his situation.

Missandei handed Daenerys the letter. She took it quickly and rose from her chair. Turning her back on everyone she took a few steps away and read. She didn't want anyone to see her countenance or reaction. Her eyes slowly examined the letter, one sentence at a time to get a full grasp.

Jon watched her carefully. He fully understood why she had turned her around while she read. He did know that the letter would startle her. Only hoping that she would know that those words didn't reflect his true intentions.

Those seconds were some of the longest in his life.

Truly his heart felt as if it were being stabbed all over again - the pain returning - as Daenerys winced at the end of the letter, setting it down with a shake of the head. She glanced at him, their eyes meeting. Hers were worn, saddened. Jon dared not glance at Tyrion. If he saw one glimpse of triumph upon his face, he'd likely strangle the Imp where he stood.

But finally, the Queen cleared her throat and answered. "I see nothing that concerns me about this." She met Jon's eyes again, and there was trust reflected in her violets. Jon felt his soul unburdened. "As… uncouth as Lord Stark's words are, and he owes an explanation to me on them, for this council there is nothing further to discuss."

"Excuse me, Your Grace," Tyrion's hand clenched on top of the table. "How in the seven bloody hells must we not discuss this?!" He nearly exclaimed, his finger leveled at Jon as if a sword. "He is a deceiver sent here to 'seduce' you. He does Stannis' bidding, the Stag King's dog if you will! He is not our friend. He should not be your lover."

Varys nodded, clearing his throat. "I can only imagine what the other letters he and Stannis have sent back and forth. We may not even know the full scope of this ploy. I fully suspect he has sent any secrets he's learned to King's Landing."

Jon crossed his arms, staying silent. Dany spoke instead. "It doesn't matter."

"Doesn't matter?" Tyrion was becoming incredulous. "Did you read the letter?"

"I read it. It is not Jon's true intentions," Dany said. Jorah, who had yet to speak, moved from behind Dany over to the letter, picking it up. Jorah read over the letter multiple times rather quickly.

"If you read it, I mean truly read it," Tyrion huffed. "How can you not see the issue at hand?"

"It is not Jon's true feelings or reasons for being here," Dany said. "That is why."

Barristan shook his head, "Your Grace, I must agree with Lord Tyrion."

"I concur," Varys echoed. Missandei said nothing, but her face was caked with confusion. Theon watched on too, but said nothing.

"Yes, me as well," Garlan Tyrell spoke up.

"We are all in agreement here, Your Grace," Tyrion said.

Tyrion and Daenerys continued to argue. "Your Grace," Tyrion began. "I am beginning to fear you yourself have become deluded by Jon Stark. He is not who he says he is. Whatever he's said he's here to do is a lie. This letter is proof of what he's really here to do."

Dany opened her mouth to speak but Jorah broke in. "Our plan of 'seduction' proved essential. I was able to get close to her easily. I have her ear and my position there can only grow," He recited from the letter. He stared at Jon and repeated the phrase. "Our plan of 'seduction' proved essential. I was able to get close to her easily. I have her ear and my position there can only grow." He walked over to Jon, standing directly in front of him. "I've said it twice to rid ourselves of any confusion." He held the letter up, close to Jon's face. "You wrote this?"

"Aye," Jon said without regret. Dany supported him, the others could drown themselves for all he cared.

"You intended to send this to King's Landing, to Stannis Baratheon?"

"That was the idea, yes."

Jorah rolled the letter up and tossed it on the painted table. "So you know what it says?"

"Aye."

"What is your defense?"

"Defense?"

"Yes," Jorah said. "I hope for your sake you have something to say in defense of yourself. Those words you've written have caused me to question your true purpose here. As it as for everyone else here, except for Your Grace," he paused, glancing back at Dany. Then continuing, "It seems you have deceived her. Fooled her. Do you remember what I told you when we first met? In these very same chambers?"

"I do," Jon said, crossing his arms. "You told me you wouldn't hesitate to take me down if I posed a threat to Daenerys."

"I said, even if you too love each other, if you have to go, Jon Stark–"

"You'll bloody well go," Jon said, reciting it to him. "I recall it."

Jorah inched closer, sizing him up, "Well, I see a threat. Right in front of me."

"If it's a duel you want," Jon narrowed his gaze. "I will strike you down. I will not hesitate."

"As much as I'd love to see that," Tyrion jumped in. "Let's get back on track, though it's good to know that you're on our side, Ser Jorah."

Jon lowered his voice, so only Jorah could hear, "I would hate to see you go, Ser Jorah. As I said, I respected your father greatly. But do not delude yourself. You are older now. Do not challenge me."

Jorah smirked, "I think you might be surprised at my strength. I consider it more so that you don't notice it. I am on fire, as my Lord empowers me."

"Ser Jorah," Dany called out. "Step away from Jon Stark, now." Jorah frowned, and paused, turning back to Dany. Though he bowed, doing as he was told. Dany started, "I see and recognize the feelings of my Small Council. You are seen. Unfortunately, in this circumstance, you are incorrect. It is not as you say it is."

Flabbergasted, Tyrion blinked, "I am stunned. Truly."

"This is evidence, Your Grace," Jorah pleaded. "Evidence of Jon Stark's deception. His transgressions."

"Irrefutable, really," Varys shrugged.

Jon finally began to see the situation devolving, in some ways, he saw the future. He understood for the first time at this moment the effect his presence here had caused. Daenerys' entire small council - minus Missandei but she held no influence other than as her friend - had turned on her. Over him. Because she defended him. Regardless that her reasons were pure. They do not all see it.

Jon never regretted returning - it was needed, to return to Daenerys and secure her love and trust as well as to start the negotiations that could secure peace, but things were in danger of spiraling out of control. He imagined a future where her council had lost all trust in her, and in turn, her supporters. In this future, he had been taken away from her. Or perhaps he had been killed as a result. Leaving Daenerys alone. She'd just have her Dragons, only. Eventually, she'd use them on everyone. Perhaps she'd feel out of options or it was her only choice then. But everything that he'd been striving to avoid happening to her would happen.

Everyone would hate her. And she would hate them as well.

In a flash, he resolved to revert course. Hopefully at this moment, doing what he could to avoid this imagined future.

Things were better now. More secure both for Daenerys and for Stannis. Jaime was right… it wouldn't be much longer before Stannis accepted as Dany did.

In his reverie, everyone had begun arguing again. But he stepped up, slamming his fist upon the table. In an instant everyone stopped, the chambers quiet. He began speaking, "There is some truth to it. The letter. But not all of it. In many ways, it was written in a manner I know Stannis would wish to hear, as I have done many times over. But I have never meant to deceive Daenerys. That has never been my intention." He took a deep breath, glancing at Dany before continuing. "But… I know how it looks. You all will never accept me as a result of it. There is nothing I can say. However, there may be something I can do, instead."

He waited for a few moments, fully gathering his thoughts. He knew Daenerys was eyeing him, he could feel it. But he did not have the gall to return her eyes. But it was Missandei that spoke next. "What will you do then, Lord Stark?"

He nodded to her. "As I mentioned in the letter, I talked about a parlay. Saying I could convince all of you for it. That is a lie. I'm not sure I can convince all of you to do it. But I can convince Stannis to do it. That I know. This power that you all think I have over Daenerys, I do have over Stannis. He will listen to me. He is a reasonable man, despite popular opinion. I will go to King's Landing. Once there, I seal the deal on the parlay. To which you all will have already agreed on."

"What?" Tyrion scoffed. "What?"

Jon ignored him. "This is for the benefit of both parties. Stannis is an older man. He wants to bask in the glory of his victory. If he can avoid fighting you he will take that chance."

"Because he knows he will lose," Jorah said.

"Yes," Jon agreed. "Because he will lose. Which means you have the upper hand. At this parlay, you will agree to the plan of succession. Securing a bloodless changing of crowns at the appointed time, for the first time in the history of the world." Jon, thinking of something, chuckled. "All of this while holding the crown of a very powerful, very prosperous realm. If this is the army the Queen assembled after two years of ruling in Meereen, imagine one after ten years. Agreements will not have reneged." He did dare to look at Daenerys then, and he could tell her face was mired with surprise and confusion.

"I do not understand why we would ever agree to that," Garlan scoffed. "The Red Keep would fall in a matter of days if threw our full weight at it."

"If we want to limit the loss of life, I suggest a siege," Barristan said.

"Why would we leave we've come so far? And with us so close?" Tyrion asked. "It doesn't make any sense."

"Because you don't have to more of the fucking same," Jon said, raising his voice. He looked directly at Daenerys. "You can be more than that. You are more than that."

While he concentrated on Dany, a low chuckle came from Tyrion Lannister. "Brilliant words, Lord Stark. I could've sworn you weren't always eloquent myself… but words written in secret mean more than words spoken in public." He pointed to the letter yet again. "Speak to what you are truly here to do."

"What am I truly here to do, Lord Tyrion?" Jon was starting to grow angry. "Seek peace? Prevent this damned continent already shattered enough by dynastic rivalry from sinking further into a devastating war that leaves only corpses? I know Queen Daenerys wishes not for that and for a better world, and she and I share that vision." Taking a deep breath, he eyed each of them before finally settling on Daenerys. "Your Grace, my presence here as the envoy of peace has run its course. My place is now in King's Landing to secure Lord Stannis' cooperation, and I will depart two days hence. You will hear from me as soon as a deal is reached."

Her breath hitched, but Daenerys was a Queen at heart and she seemed resigned to the eventuality. She had not foreseen his sudden desire to exit however. It deeply saddened her. She was resigned to defend him til her dying day. "You have my commitment to a true summit of peace, but I cannot promise I can agree to Stannis' terms."

"That is fair." Jon turned to the others. "None of you sought to attack King's Landing immediately, or if you did so you didn't press it as much as you pressed me today." A special glare at Tyrion, who met that gaze without fail. "If any of you sabotage this, you'll own the mountains of corpses that result."

Turning, cloak furled over his shoulders for dramatic effect, he stormed out - resolve in his eyes.

"Ser Davos, is it?" Looking up from his simple meal of porridge and bacon, Davos saw Tyene Martell stride into the private dining chamber, her attendants behind but waiting at the doorway. She had no guards with her. She doesn't need them. He remembered her skill with a knife and supposed she had them on her.

Rising from his seat, Davos bowed. "Your Grace… forgive me if I don't bend the knee, for I am a lot older and they are quite stiff…"

"Please, please," chuckled Tyene, dressed in the finest of garments in the fashion of the crownlands - slim dress but very puffy sleeves - but nonetheless radiant with a down-to-earth youth. She was quite young, after all. Born the same year as Jon Stark, if he recalled correctly. "There is no need. I came here to speak with you."

While gesturing for King Stannis's wife to take a seat across from him, Davos remained standing until she did, her hands folded atop the table as she looked him in the eye. "Alright then, your Grace. What would you like to talk to this old sea dog about?"

"You are the son of a crabber, no?" Davos raised a brow at her. "My late sister Obara had a mother as lowborn as my father was highborn, so you'll find no judgment from me."

"Alright." He chewed on some of his bacon, cooked crisp and salted to perfection. "My father was a crabber, and I a smuggler."

She nodded. "His Grace told me that you were a smuggler that helped bring food through the Tyrell siege of Storm's End."

"Aye, I did. Saved them all, which was why Stannis knighted me and took me into his service." A chuckle. "Did have to pay the price for my past, though." Davos showed his left hand, missing the top half of three fingers. "Can't say I don't miss them, but serving Stannis has given me far more than it has taken away."

A nod. "I have grown… to respect him greatly since our marriage, but that lack of any sort of flexibility will prevent him from being a proper and popular King." She flipped some of her hair behind her shoulder. "That brings me to the heart of the matter. Princess Shireen… I am her stepmother and I wish her to be introduced formally to court."

Davos blinked. "I would be in favor of the idea, certainly. That girl is the closest thing to a daughter I could have… but why now? Why would you wish for another woman's child to be part of court?" The bastards of Robert Baratheon earned Cersei Lannister's wrath, after all.

"Frankly, Ser Davos, many don't trust me… and if I am to be what brings peace between Dorne and the rest of the Seven Kingdoms I must be seen as honoring my marriage… and the Princess Shireen is innocent. I've recognized that given everything that's happened to me."

"The Princess Myrcella, you mean?" Tyene nodded. "That was… unfortunate but unavoidable, sadly. But I should hope you've suffered enough." Frankly, Davos simply wanted peace as well. "I shall talk to his Grace about it after breaking my fast…"

"No, I shall. Do not concern yourself with the worry, Ser Davos." Reaching out to clasp his hand amiably, Tyene rose and departed.

An hour later Davos walked through the hallways towards the King's solar. Passing by the old courtyard map of Cersei Lannister's, repainted for Stannis' use by the castle's servants. Most bowed to him as he walked past, a member of the Small Council.

"Why did you bring me here, Littlefinger?" Davos walked by Baelish, speaking to a gruff man in a dirty leather cuirass and high boots. Hair stringy and beard haphazardly cropped.

"Because you were made promises, Ser Bronn… promises that I am willing to make into a reality if you change allegiances…" Davos hurried past them, nevertheless listening. Filing the information away for another day.

The Kingsguards let him pass into the royal solar, the same place that Robert Baratheon used to drink and fuck his whores in. Stannis refused such pleasures, instead working at his desk. "Davos," he said amiably. "Welcome."

Davos bowed. "Your Grace… I have seen Lord Hand Baelish converse with a certain Ser Bronn."

"Wait, who?" Stannis looked up from his papers, peering as if trying to see something quite far away.

Davos sat across from him, leaning forward in his chair. "Ser Bronn of the Blackwater, the one that loosed the arrow at… Blackwater Bay." He had just realized it, and the thought of his late sons… He shook his head. He's come to grips with it long ago, and thinking on his loss would've simply made it worse. "He fought for Cersei Lannister as the guerilla fighter prior to our taking King's Landing."

Stannis thought for a moment only to groan. "Oh, him. I thought we killed him."

"No, he's far more wily than that."

"So what in Seven Hells is he doing here, walking about rather than in leg irons?"

Shrugging, Davos tapped his leg. "Baelish and he were talking, so I assume the Lord Hand is trying to bribe him and his soldiers to come over to our side."

"Ah, I see." Stannis stroked his chin - he had shaved several days ago, but the stubble was returning. "Can't say I blame my Hand, given the success Tywin's irregular forces had against Robb Stark. Mountain's Men and the Brave Companions. Cunts all but damned effective." He shuffled through his papers, determined to keep working as Davos knew him to do. "I am willing to let bygones be bygones… all those that fought for my fake nephew are mostly dead anyway, the rest are useless to keep chasing when the Targaryen and Demonic menaces are to be fought."

Arching his brow, Davos clicked his tongue. This… was normally not like Stannis - he was not a man to let grudges go, given his iron sense of justice, bordering on draconian. Davos' three stunted fingers proved that facet, sure enough. "In a good mood, your Grace?"

A gentle smile passed on the Stag King's lips, also an odd sight. "I am, actually."

Davos was sure he knew why. "Her Grace, I assume?"

The King sighed, leaning back. "Davos… do you remember being at my side while Robert was wed to Cersei?"

"Seems like a lifetime ago, your Grace, given all that has happened."

"Robert… he was my brother but also a fool. However much of a whore and viper Cersei was then and ended up becoming, she was beautiful in the Great Sept that day and instead of counting his blessings, Robert instead couldn't shake his pining over the late Lady Lyanna."

Truthfully Davos had never witnessed that, though the love Robert shared for Lyanna Stark was a legend at this point. "Truly he pined for her?"

"Every moment of every day… just like now I sometimes pine for Selyse. She was foolish and not the prettiest I can admit but she was loyal to me. A loyal wife who birthed the only good thing in my life for the longest time." Closing his eyes for a moment, Stannis opened them and Davos could swear he saw nothing but joy in the Baratheon blues they were famous for. "And yet Robert failed to accept it and move on with his life. I will always remember Selyse, but unlike Robert, I will not destroy my life. I will move on and move on I have."

"You love Queen Tyene, don't you?"

Chuckling, Stannis pounded the table. For a moment he looked akin to his late brother. "Odd, isn't it, myself a Baratheon and her, not even a trueborn Martell, yet here we both are." He sighed in happiness. "By the old gods and the new, Davos, I have never felt this way about any woman before. She… she is my spirit. Even my leg is healing!" he proclaimed with astonishment.

Davos smiled for his King. "Don't knock it, your Grace. I always healed from my wounds faster whenever Marya and the children were there with me."

"Your family, Davos… please bring them here as my guests. I cannot stand to think you sundered from them any longer."

He bowed his head. "You honor me, your Grace." Davos would've been happy at the old Stannis emerging but this was a man wholly unfamiliar to him. And that was a fortunate development. Mayhaps peace can be achieved after all. Trusting Jon to work miracles, miracles they remained though, but sometimes they did emerge.

A knock on the door broke the moment, and Stannis cleared his throat. Scowl returning. "Enter."

Lord Commander Edric complied, a ravenscroll in his hand. "Your Grace, from Dragonstone."

Stannis stiffened, while Davos' breath hitched. "Dragon seal?" the King grunted.

"No, your Grace, the direwolf."

"Jon then," Davos stated as Edric handed his uncle the ravenscroll - bidding a quick exit. "What does it say?"

Using a knife to pry open the seal, Stannis squinted as he skimmed it… only for another smile to emerge on his face. "Jon, my son in all but name, he is returning!"

"Truly?" Davos took the letter, almost disbelieving it. "This could be a breakthrough… or he's returning home in disgrace."

"Regardless, we will win this peace and war with the Dragon Queen." He stomped his foot on the floor. "Ready the celebration, my son is returning!"

A/N: Bruh: Lots of information in this chapter. Lots of things happened. Bran let them see under the hood but only to get them off his scent. But yes, he can see multiple futures. Yes, that's not entirely original. However, we thought it made this the most interesting. Arya is heading north as well to Castle Black. Jon is on the way out of Dragonstone. It's time to progress the story and we are doing that by getting him out. The scenes we have planned in King's Landing get us pretty excited.

Longclaw: So, Jon is departing yet again. Unlike before, he and Dany are on a good foot and they know it's temporary. There was nothing else he could do, and if he secures a parlay then he's proven Tyrion and the others wrong.

Until next time! Please comment!