Arianne Nymeros-Martell

The Narrow Sea, 301 AC

It was clear to her the moment she had seen her father again that she was not wanted in Sunspear. Even if Prince Doran kept his face as passive as always, she knew him and could pick apart every little bit of the language of his body. His bottom lip was ever so slightly pulled within but not far enough to show his teeth, and she had caught the way he was looking over her like she didn't even exist in the first place. It took everything in her not to call him out on it right there and then.

At least it wasn't just herself getting the same treatment. Having walked within the walls to see Myrcella Waters walking through the many halls with her youngest brother. Since she had been sent to spend time with her mother she had not seen the girl, eyes widening ever so slightly at just how lovely she was now. With her golden curls falling to the middle of her back and eyes such a pale shade of green they looked like peridots. Of course, everyone knew she wasn't just supposed to wed her youngest brother, she was a hostage and to the Lannister's seen as 'good will' for what they had done to her aunt.

Yet Arianne had some fun the few days she had remained there. Only remaining long enough for the banners to be called, responses to arrive and to plan out the impending attack on Storm's End. It made sense, to take out the main Seat in the Stormland's because it would cause them to further scatter to try and pick up the pieces. Smaller pieces were much easier to smash to dust than one large piece. The Stormland's would fall which would leave only the Westerland's and the Vale to fall into line. Once they did, then they would be in a much greater position to make the final steps.

Or so Jon Connington said.

The man got under her skin on many occasions. Not even attempting to hide the way he sneered at her which according to her uncle was an expression he had cast towards her aunt on many occasions. All because the man was too prudent to admit to himself he wanted Rhaegar to fuck him and anyone who did get the privilege of doing so did not deserve such a thing. That had been one of many things she had taken great pleasure in, waiting until the man was just in earshot before speaking to Oberyn about how in Dorne such activities were not looked down upon. Every time without fail he would pretend to not be listening before storming from the room in complete anger.

The second fun she was having was getting to see Ser Arys once again. Her father catching them abed had been the final nail which led to her being unofficially exiled and they had picked up right where they had left off. This further angering the Chicken as her uncle had taken to calling him for dishonouring herself and her husband so openly. Aegon didn't mind, in fact, he had said to her so long as it wasn't too obvious she could find entertainment wherever she wished.

Lastly, seeing her other cousins again had been her fun. Little Elia and Loreza running to her as she picked them up in an arm each and swung them around. Both laughing loudly as they did so before asking for her to put them both down. Sarella was still in Oldtown which was a shame but they would see one another again some day. Tyene immediately realising what she was doing and joining in with her which only annoyed the Chicken and her father even more. The first night back Nymeria had even smuggled in some young snakes from the many bushes she had caught and they had set them loose in the portion of the guest quarters that housed who they did not like.

It felt good, she felt like a little girl again which she hadn't for a long time. One day Dorne would be hers by rights and given how frail her father had gotten would be sooner rather than later. Even if she had to fight tooth and nail for it, she would. Dorne did not follow Andal law and instead followed Rhoynar law. Women were seen as equals and she was the eldest daughter. Quentyn wasn't pleased by her shows which were also undermining him, but that was expected as he wholly believed Dorne would be his.

Even now, she recalled the conversation with her father before she was sent away. Of the many plans and plots he had placed on the board. Waiting like the snake he was until the time to strike arrived. Alas, someone else struck beforehand which completely unravelled many years of his scheming. She'd been betrothed to Viserys Targaryen of all people and she had been left wholly ignorant of such a thing. It always bothered her that her father had always turned away everyone who asked for her hand but as soon as he had confirmed that it was obvious. He had been plotting since she was only eight name-days to name her the Queen. Which was why he had sent Quentyn away to be groomed for rule too. For if she was to be Queen, who was to be the ruler of Dorne?

She knew it was what her father wished for, Quentyn knew it was what her father wished for, the whole family knew it was what the end goal was. Yet to be Queen was not her goal and her father could kick the largest block of sandstone there was in Dorne. Yet how to get what she wanted? She was a married woman now, to her cousin who was actively going for the throne himself. If she was to be the Princess of Dorne, she would have to convince Aegon to give up his quest. Either that or find a way to annul the marriage. The only other option was one she wouldn't even consider so there was no use dwelling on the third possibility.

Taking to standing at the stern of the ship that was heading north from where they had departed three days prior and looking out over the expansive waters. It was dark currently yet it was still warm from it still being in summer even if Maester's were certain winter was likely to arrive in the next year or two. That was something to worry about in the future, plus Dorne was never really affected by winter. In her entire life, she could say with complete honesty she had never known cold or seen snow or ice in her entire life. Mayhaps if it was as bad a winter as the Maester's were preparing for she would be able to experience something she never had before.

"What brings you out here, dearest niece?"

Arianne turned her head to be faced with her uncle who had left with her despite being ordered by her father to remain to begin mobilising the armies that were headed towards Sunspear. A fight had broken out between the brothers but she had not been in the room to witness it even if she wished she had.

"Plans."

There was no use denying what she was doing, for Oberyn could read her like a book.

"For what?"

She tapped her fingers on the rail of the ship a few times before turning away and moving towards her cabin. Aegon had his own cabin so he could keep an eye on Vēzos who was now too large to perch on him which had annoyed the white and orange dragon massively. Closing the door behind them as she sat down on the makeshift bed which was really just a large chest with plenty of covers so it was comfortable to lay on.

"For taking my rightful place as the Princess of Dorne and what I will do when I take said title. If I will rule in a similar fashion, how I will put down rebellions, how to remain above those who don't see me as the rightful ruler, and what to do with Myrcella."

Again, there was no use in lying. Plus, she had been open the entire time they had been travelling together to meet up with Aegon officially for the first time. Any other time they had met secretly he had been disguised as Young Griff and hid his silver hair with bright blue hair dye that was common for Tyroshi. According to her husband, it took weeks for it to wash out and he had taken to washing his hair multiple times a day to make it fade faster the final time he had donned it. It was out now, there was no doubt in her mind Jaeron had heard the news and they were preparing for him to retaliate. Her uncle may not hate her goodbrother (even if he denied such a thing), but her father most certainly did. So long as Jaeron held Kings Landing, Aegon would never be recognised as King. There was no sin greater than a war between ones own kin. Histories had proven that time and time again, and Arianne did not wish for such a thing.

"Don't let anyone overhear that who may relay it to your father."

"It is a good thing the stern of the ship is abandoned and the stormy seas are rather loud this night, isn't it uncle?"

She fired back, watching the way his lips broke apart in a grin. Remembering the many times her father had remarked when she was little she was more alike Oberyn than she was him, something which proved to be correct the older she had gotten.

"When do you think it will happen? Jaeron is not going to take this lightly. Especially because they came so close to meeting one another long before either claim was made."

A day where Jaeron had threatened both her father and her uncle. A part deep down wishing she could've been there to witness their reaction to such a thing. Yet a common ground had allowed them to put the poison in their blood at bay when it came to getting justice for what had happened to her aunt. The monster was still alive, kept in a dungeon below Sunspear and according to Aegon would never see again. What he had meant had not been relayed to her until later that night when they were abed, of how he had slowly carved his eyeballs out of his skull and threw them into the open fire and watched as they melted before his own eyes. It was a disgusting image, yet the justice she felt for the wrong the monster had done to her family quickly overwhelmed her disgust.

"I cannot say, dearest niece. The little time I spent with him confirmed he is more wolf than dragon. Very quick to anger, very stubborn, and very set in what he believes."

"He is a lot like yourself then."

It was impossible not to tease him with such a comment, noticing the way Oberyn rolled his eyes in annoyance at the remark.

"All I can say is, it will likely be quick. For all we know Sunspear is being attacked right this moment in retaliation. Make no mistake but those dragons are quick. A dragon had not been used in battle since our kin warred with one another."

A war that had devastated the whole of Westeros, where sibling had slain sibling, cousin had slain cousin, backstabbing at every corner. The Faith may still have been pushing for one side but she knew the truth of it all for her own line came from the Rogue Prince and the first Queen of the Seven Kingdoms. The Seven spat on such a thing as did the Faith for how dare a woman be seen as important as her trueborn brother? In Dorne, such a thing was not the case. They'd not been a part of the Seven Kingdoms at the time and had ruled themselves in their own right still, yet one of their own aided in the usurpation. Someone who had dishonoured and embarrassed House Cole so much they lost much of the respect they had at the time and were exiled from the Kingdom as a result. Not that any of them had made it to safety, if what was chirped by the many birds around Sunspear their ship had faced an unexpected failure on route to Tyrosh.

"Did you know? That I was betrothed against my will secretly?"

From the way his eyes had darkened, Arianne had her answer. So he had been kept out of her father plans too. Wondering now what he had planned in store for him. Doran was a man who wished for power. Power to a point he would be drunk on it for eternity. If he wanted her to be Queen, Quentyn to be the Prince, what did he want from his brother? Her uncle did confirm his mother had wished for him to wed Cersei Lannister at one point- a thought which made her want to wretch. Aliandra Nymeros-Martell had died when she was only a babe herself, her grandfather Lord Mors dying before she was even born.

"Don't break the betrothal between Myrcella and Trystane. By doing so, the Westerland's cannot attack us for fear of losing one of their own. Not that we would hurt her- "

"Because in Dorne we do not see the child of the ones who wronged us as at fault, and we do not hurt little children."

The words were true and came from Arianne's lips with no hesitation.

"There is something else to be made aware of, however. There is an agreement but it was never officially on paper, that Sansa Stark would be betrothed to one of your brothers when her betrothal to Joffrey Waters was broken."

For a few moments, the words did not hit her. Watching over the stern as the waves steadily got stronger and stronger, rocking the ship more as they got closer to where the Narrow Sea met Shipbreaker's Bay. Yet when they did, her head snapped to the side in shock. Blinking a few times before leaning back slightly. Yes, that could work. If Joffrey was dead Sansa would be free to be betrothed again. If they were able to do so before things started getting ugly, they could use her as they were using Myrcella. Which would grant them time to talk things through.

"Help me, uncle. Back me when I make my claim as the Princess of Dorne."

"You cannot be so if your husband proclaims himself the King."

No, she couldn't. Yet she would not fail with such a thing. She was Dornish, and she had the blood of the Rhoynar in her veins just as much as she had blood of the dragon in them. Princess Nymeria of Ny Sar was her ancestor and she doubted she would take kindly to a woman being set aside for her younger brother. Quentyn would not like it and his Yronwood friends would likely support him, but would the rest of Dorne support such a thing? Was she really going to do this? Declare a war against her own brother who would not go down without fighting tooth and nail?

"I was born a Princess of Dorne. I am the eldest daughter of Prince Doran Nymeros-Martell and Lady Mellario Naharsa of Norvos. I will have what is mine by right and that is Sunspear and everything that comes with it. Yet I cannot do so alone, and I know my brother will not take kindly to such a thing. Help me, please."

Oberyn went quiet at her words, thinking them through thoroughly before bowing his head. A movement she knew meant he agreed and it caused the little hope she had in her heart to swell.

"I cannot go against my brother openly even if I wish to do so, Arianne. However, I do have contacts I can use to further the game. I will set up a meeting with yourself and Margaery Tyrell, mayhaps you can come to an accord that way. Yet what will you tell Aegon?"

Arianne's hand tightened on the railing for a moment as she stared at the waves again. Thinking everything through thoroughly before beginning to walk away. Turning her head to mutter words just loud enough only her uncle would hear.

"It is true snakes wait in the grass to strike their pray, uncle. Yet a dragon will strike hard and fast. My husband may have a dragon of his own, but he is more snake and he was not quick enough to catch the prey he had his eye on."

Jaeron Targaryen

Castle Black, 301 AC

At first, he'd intended to fly directly for Claw Isle. To put an end to Lord Ardrian for going against him now after everything. Almost making it there before pausing mid-air and forcing tears of anger away he now had no shame in showing openly. No one could see him so high up, there was no one with him. For the first time in months, the mask was coming off. A mask he'd been wearing since the moment he had first made his claim and how long ago had that been now? It was so difficult to tell now but he knew it was at least a year but likely more. Everything had happened so damned quickly that there just was not enough time to accurately mark down how much time exactly had passed and all they could do was guess.

"Lord Ardrian never swore for me, I just assumed he did because I sent someone to broker a deal with him."

Yet the person he'd sent to deal with him had drove a knife into his back by brokering a deal but not on his behalf, had lied for months about who he was really sworn to, and had then taken his sister to wherever. Whilst Varys had confirmed Sansa had last been known to be in Qarth with Daenerys, there was no saying that was where she was taken to initially. If anyone lay a hand on her during her time in Essos, they would not be spared from his dragons flames. Taking a few deep breaths and turning towards Dragonstone before recalling there were people there and that was the last thing Jaeron wanted currently. Everything needed to come out, every feeling he'd bottled up since he'd first called himself King, and he had to do so alone or with someone he trusted implicitly.

Cursing himself silently at the matter because there was only a handful of people he trusted implicitly. Lord Howland, Ser Arthur, his granduncle at the Wall, Arya who was still missing somewhere, and to an extent Robb even if it had been compromised in later months. Once again stopping mid-air and going through everything as much as he could and trying to figure out where to go. As of right now, Jaeron knew he was not in the right state of mind to talk to anyone and it took almost everything in him not to head directly for Sunspear and burn the entire thing to the ground alongside the many House's in Dorne who swore for Aegon.

It had been for nothing. All the hurt, all the lies, all the fights, all for nothing. There was someone else ahead of him in the succession, someone everyone believed to be dead yet was alive. Whilst his brother didn't have a large army, he did have an army. It would not be long before he had support too. Would the Vale side with him for being a complete outsider? Would he annihilate the Lannister's and their lackeys for him? How many of those who had sworn for him and him alone would jump ship when they found out? Only realising then he was flying through the air again, not even noticing where he was or when they had started moving again.

How long they had flown he could not say. Minutes? Hours? Days? Everything rope thrown knotting together in a massive clump and it did not seem like there was a way to unravel it all. Only when his stomach rumbled in anger from lack of food caused him to finally move down from the clouds to see an expanse of swamps below. Eyes widening in alarm he had travelled so far. Whilst he'd lived in the Neck for a time, he was not going to be stupid enough to land in the Neck. Where Greywater Watch was currently was unknown for it never remained in one place. He had to keep going. The biting cold hitting him like the feeling of steel against his body right before his skin was sliced. Wondering not for the first time when he had gotten used to how hot it was in Kings Landing when the first time he had came to the Neck he'd thought it was warm. The swamps finally broke away to reveal numerous fields covered in frost, and then the frost turned to light blankets of snow, and then to thick heavy snow that it was difficult to see beyond. Trusting Rhaegon would take him where he needed to be right now.

Lyrax was behind too, never leaving her brother alone when it came to flights. Remaining a little behind them but still within his visibility when there was the tiniest gap within the thick snow falling from the sky. Further into the North they travelled until after what felt like an age he figure out where Rhaegon was taking him. From where he was it looked like a single line of white tinged with a pale blue across a field of even more white. The Wall. He'd taken him to the Wall. Reaching up to wipe the tears from his face which was easy as they had frozen and realising then he was not dressed for this type of weather. Closer and closer to the ground they got until he could see some people running around Castle Black and the Wall itself. Snow kicking up in a massive cloud as Rhaegon finally landed just outside the gates and he slowly climbed down from his back. The first person he saw was a boy he'd gotten along with well the last time he was here, the second he saw a man who was still as stern as before but looking to the dragon worryingly, the third was the Old Bear.

"I wish to speak to my granduncle, Lord Commander."

Jeor Mormont didn't say anything to him other than nodding silently. Moving to the side to create a gap large enough for him to enter and it did not miss his now watchful eye Ser Alliser stepped in behind him like a shadow. Something he'd gotten used to as Ser Arthur was prone to do the very same thing. Numerous eyes turning his way but that was not what caught his attention. What did was the sheer lack of people there was in Castle Black. Whilst there weren't many brothers when he was last here, there was easily a couple hundred less now. He'd need to find out what had happened. All thoughts of such disappearing from his mind as an old man leaning heavily on a cane to walk now was in front of him, pace quickening and grin widening even more before throwing his arms around Maester Aemon who accepted the embrace warmly and wrapped his free arm around his back too.

"What brings you here, nephew? Kings Landing too stifling?"

The tiniest of laughs left him at the remark because there was truth to such a thing, but it wasn't the whole truth.

"May we speak in private, uncle? I cannot remain for long I'm afraid, a day or perhaps two at most."

"Once you have a cloak, you'll freeze otherwise."

Only then did Jaeron realise just how cold it was. Having to fight to stop his teeth from chattering as it bit deep into his skin and as far as his bones. A steward appeared then, carrying a spare cloak which he happily took and pulled it over his body and relishing the warmth that immediately came from it. Walking through the crowd of people with Aemon to his solar in the Maester's Tower. Even now, it surprised him how his uncle could navigate the area so well when his sight had failed him so long ago. Entering the room and immediately taking a seat at the table and looking out over the window to the fields of snow outside the walls where both Rhaegon and Lyrax were curled up on.

"I didn't mean to come here."

"Then where were you going? One does not happen upon Castle Black unknowingly, nephew."

He looked down to his hands which were now tinged a deep pink from the cold air, moving them closer to the candle on the table and breathing hot air onto the skin to get some colour back in them.

"I needed to clear my head. Something was revealed that has flipped the table and I didn't trust myself not to let loose on everyone. I just trusted Rhaegon would know where to take me and he took me here."

There was a stack of parchment beside him alongside multiple letters, some half-written and some fully written but he knew he could not read them for they were not for his own eyes to see. A flagon of ale was placed down in front of him and he took a long gulp of it which caused his nose to wrinkle up a little at the sour taste. When had he gotten used to wine that ale now tasted disgusting? Suddenly glad his uncle could not see his face for there was no doubt he probably would've laughed at how ridiculous he looked in that moment.

"Yydrās, taobus ñuhus." (Speak, my boy).

For a moment the words seemed to pass completely over him, and then he had to pause for a moment to piece together what he had said. He'd been lacking on his practise of their House's ancestral language and he'd likely forgotten most of what he had learned. Making a note to continue doing so when he did travel back to the Red Keep.

"Āegon Rhaenyys glaesī issi." (Aegon and Rhaenys are alive.)

Whatever Aemon was thinking, it was not that. Visibly sitting back as shock coated his wrinkled face. For so long it had just been them and Daenerys half a world away. Now there were another three of them with the realisation of who Allyria's father was. Did she know? If she didn't, she was about to get the fright of her life when he confirmed such a thing. He'd need to tell Arthur too, wondering how he would take to the man he had served laying with his sister as a distraction to Elia's plans could go ahead to get her children out of the Red Keep secretly.

"Skorī jagon kostan, kepus?" (What can I do, uncle?)

The words still felt wrong on his tongue, knowing he'd need to switch to common again for there was a lot more to be said about everything. Only noticing then Aemon's hand had moved to cover his own which was now a tight fist. Feeling his thumb run along his knuckles to try and calm him down.

"Limagon kostā, Jaeros." (You can cry, Jaeron.)

"No, I can't. I don't know what to do. I've put so much work into everything, so many people have sworn for me directly which means they cannot swear for Aegon for that would be treason against myself. I'm now no longer first in line which essentially means I'm a usurper myself- "

"Stop."

He did just that. Taking multiple deep breaths until his heartbeat had calmed down enough that it no longer felt like it was going to leap out of his chest.

"Was my brother ever named usurper, nephew?"

What? What was he getting at?

"That was different. You stepped down for your brother- "

"Was he ever named usurper? The reason I took the Black in the first place was because I knew people were whispering such behind our backs. I knew that if I remained bound only by my chain, there would've been a plot to place myself on the throne over my brother. Yet when I did so, was there ever anything written that was the case?"

Jaeron still didn't know what he was getting at. The situations were not similar in the slightest. Aemon was tied to the Citadel and sworn never to take a wife, hold a title, or have children of his own. Neither him nor Aegon were like that. The words beginning to swim around in his head before realisation dawned on him as he stared at his uncle incredulously.

"They were going to release you?"

"Or create an exception. It wouldn't be the first time such a thing had been discussed. Mt distant uncle Vaegon was in the same boat. His siblings all bar one sister who was exiled dead and a succession crisis being created doing so."

Yes, he had read about that before. A son of King Jaehaerys I and Queen Alysanne. Which son he was he could not say off the top of his head. A grand council being called for the first time to find a new heir. Vaegon had been put forward as a candidate which was a precedent for what people might've tried with his uncle. Yet King Aegon V was never named usurper.

"You think a council should be called to end it?"

"I think you should consider such a thing. You cannot give up everything you've worked for as it is a spit on those who have supported you since you made your claim. Yet Aegon cannot give up either for as you said it, he is the first in line and that will carry a lot of weight in what happens. There are a few options."

The cut off stunned him for a moment, feeling the pit deep within open further that he had come to the same conclusion as he had. Thinking the options through and speaking them aloud.

"Either I step down for Aegon, Aegon steps down for me, we fight one another until one of us is dead and the other carries the stain of being a kinslayer, or a council is called."

"Or- "

Or what? That was the only options there was to the matter! Neither of which one he wished to take yet he had to make a decision and soon. Aegon had landed on Westeros with an army at his back. One much smaller than his own but the seeds had been planted and it was only a waiting game for when people turned their cloaks for a different red. Aemon clearly noticing he was wholly confused by what he had prodded on.

"There is one other option, my boy. Yourself and Margaery Tyrell are to wed soon, and children will be coming soon after I'd wager."

Understanding finally dawning on him of what he meant. Slowly standing up from his seat to stand at the window to look down at the dragons who were now asleep and noticing it was dark. He had to have been flying for more than a day to arrive at the Wall. He really should've left something behind, knowing the Red Keep was likely scrambling with him flying off during what was currently happening. Having no doubt in his head Arthur would be ripping into him the moment he saw him next.

"Aegon has taken Princess Arianne to wife already. For all I know she is already carrying their babe. There would be two lines, two lines which have to converge as one. Why not do so now?"

Yes. That may just work. That is, if Aegon agreed to such a thing never mind Margaery. She'd been angry enough at him for openly naming Shireen his heir until a babe was born to them without telling her, how would she take something like this? With the thoughts racing through his mind something else came to the front of everything.

"Uncle, was anyone alive before you knew that experienced dreams? I've been having many and they're so vivid and a part of me thinks they're dragon dreams."

It took a moment for the words to click but when they did, purple eyes that were clouded over by blindness widened in shock. Demanding he sit down and tell him what he had been dreaming. There was no insult to be had for being demanded by someone else now, they were family. Every one he'd had replaying in his mind at a speed that almost made him dizzy yet speak he did. In as much detail as he could. How long he spoke for, he could not say. All that he could say was that by the time he had finished he was exhausted. Well and truly exhausted. From all the politicking, from all the stress, from all the lying and people-pleasing.

"My…brothers were dreamers. Not Aegon, no. Aerion and Daeron."

Jaeron was stunned. The few times they had spoken before he could not recall his uncle ever speaking about his older brothers. The eldest being a drunk who died from a pox he'd contracted from a whore. That is, if the texts were true.

"Is Aerion the one who drank- "

"Wildfire thinking it would turn him into a dragon? Aye. Aerion was brash, cruel, and without question mad. Yet he came to me often when I'd forged my chain of the dreams that plagued him at night. Dragon dreams are more premonitions rather than absolutes, Jaeron. Daenys saw disaster for Valyria but not what that disaster would be. There have been rumours passed down within the family that many were dreamers but kept it to themselves for fear of being labelled mad like Maegor the Cruel."

"Who? Did it ever reach yourself, uncle?"

From the lack of response, he knew Aemon was well aware of who was said to have possessed the dreaming ability.

"Rhaena Targaryen, the Queen of the West was. It was why she named her dragon Dreamfyre. What she dreamt I cannot say for what was dreamt was never passed down and instead just who did. Queen Helaena too and her father King Viserys I. Queen Naerys was said to possess the ability as well and one of Rhaena's and Garmund's daughters also had the ability but this has instead passed down into the many families in the Reach. If anyone else from said line has the ability, they're likely labelled mad and never speak on such a thing. My uncle Rhaegel also dreamt. There was one other, one I knew well and one I took the Black with."

A shiver ran down Jaeron's back now, understanding who he was referring to.

"Bloodraven."

"Aye. Brynden Rivers more commonly referred to as Bloodraven. My great-uncle and one of the many great bastards."

Great bastards. Bastards where both the mother and father were nobles. Not very common yet did happen. One alive right this moment was Edric Storm who was currently in Storm's End still and had yet to answer his summons to discuss the ruling of the Stormland's alongside Shireen.

"Yet my dreams seem to be absolutes."

"They appear to be so, and due to that I cannot say with confidence that what you are experiencing is dragon dreams. Yet it is curious that you are experiencing such a thing for it is clear you are not mad like your grandfather. People say your father was a dreamer too yet that was not the case. Your father was overcome by prophecies. He claimed to have found one of the many lost pages of Signs and Portents, a book written by Daenys the Dreamer herself said to have been destroyed by Baelor I for being sinful in the eyes of the Seven. Whether what he found was what he claimed I cannot say nor can anyone, Daenys died more than three hundred years ago."

That she had. He wanted answers to what was happening and now he was left with even more questions than before. If they weren't dragon dreams, what were they? What did they mean? Why did they seem to be so vivid and tie some of the loose ends of the frayed tapestry together?

"You should sleep, my boy. We will talk in the morning."

Only then did he realise just how tired he was physically. Not even attempting to argue as he took the spare bed in the room which was rock solid apart from a partly moth eaten pillow. When he awoke the next day he knew it was early for the sun had not fully come above the horizon. The shuffling of feet echoing around and knowing Aemon was awake too. Slowly getting off of the bed and having to twist his back to crack it from how stiff he was. Yet the rest had been needed, and it felt good to finally speak to someone whom he knew would never betray him on what was going on. Now, he had options. Ones that he would need to explore before things came to a head where there would be no point of return. Both exiting the tower into the courtyard and it didn't miss his gaze many people were looking to him almost in awe. An expression he'd long gotten used to even if he detested it. For a moment wondering where his uncle was heading before figuring out what he was doing. The last time they had saw one another, both Rhaegon and Lyrax were still babies. Far too young to be ridden and still fit in cages that could be carried.

Walking with him side by side and noticing a few people were also doing so curiously but keeping their distance. Understandably, for dragons were not tame nor could they be controlled fully. Stopping not far from them as Rhaegon lifted his large silver head and slowly moved it towards him. Reaching up to pet his snout before he turned to Aemon warily. His uncle may not be able to see what was in front of him but he could still picture it. He could hear them, he could feel them, he could sense them. It was enough to get a general idea.

"Careful, uncle. Rhaegon is as wary as ever."

Slowly, Aemon raised his hand but made no attempt to move closer. Only noticing then he was holding his breath at what he was currently doing. After what felt like an age, his mount leaned over and sniffed at him, snorted loudly which caused his uncle to jump in fright, before turning away. A soft chuckle leaving his lips at such a thing. Only then did Lyrax slowly begin to move forward. The last time they were here she had fit in Aemon's lap and had lapped up the chin and neck scratches like a kitten. Something even now she enjoyed but it was much harder to do so with her size. Blue dragon moving forward also to sniff at him before pressing her nose against his palm and letting out a low trill of content at the touch.

"She doesn't fit on your lap anymore, uncle."

He turned to face Aemon who was looking to the dragon in complete wonder, clearly recalling when she was so little to do just what he had said. A reminder again of just how much time had actually passed since they'd last saw one another. At opposite ends of Westeros they were now, one shackled with chains and a black cloak and the other shackled by the restraints of ruling. Slowly moving closer so he could begin to pet the length of her mouth and she moved closer too. Only then realising exactly what was happening in that moment.

"She wants to bond with you."

The words came out stunned, disappearing in the wind in a thick white cloud from how cold it was here. Aemon was crying now, and not even attempting to hide such a thing.

"Oh Egg, if you could see what I am touching right now."

The pain in those words made him tighten his lips but he said nothing. Lyrax finally being close enough to partially wrap her neck around his uncle protectively. He couldn't separate them, Jaeron knew that now. To split a bond was unheard of as far as he was aware, and he did not intend to gamble the little time he had left. Walking back and seeing Lord Jeor gaping at what he was seeing with his own eyes but he had made his mind up. He was not going back to Kings Landing alone.

"My uncle is henceforth free of his vows to the Night's Watch. I shall send another Maester myself and free the prisoners I have to take the Black to fortify Castle Black, Eastwatch, and the Shadow Tower."

At least it would get the old rat out of his face. He'd been looking for ways to get rid of the Grand Maester and this was the perfect opportunity to do so. A new one would be sent from the Citadel for the position was only appointed by them and was simply approved by the King.

"I shall see it done, how many people can you send, your Grace?"

"Around a thousand currently, but more will be gathered as the war is not yet over. Has there been anything on beyond?"

He asked the last question quietly, not wanting to hear the answer but it was an answer he needed to know. Very few people knew what was out there beyond the Wall and he had witnessed himself what was beyond.

"We had a ranging, only two hundred of us made it back."

"From all castles?!"

Lord Commander Jeor said nothing, simply pressing his lips into a thin line which was all the confirmation he needed. This was not good, not good at all. Pausing for a few moments as he thought carefully.

"What is needed? Other than men, that is? Unfortunately the coffers are very low so I cannot aid there, Lord Commander."

"Food. Supplies. Horses. Anything that can be spared."

"I'll see it done when I travel back, I promise you such. Any news you hear from beyond I want you to write to me immediately. If I am to rule the Seven Kingdoms, I need to know everything that is happening. That includes the Wall even if you are all sworn to neutrality."

There was no need to write it down on parchment. Jeor was a Northerner, he was raised as a Northerner, and a Northerner's oath was as good as the cold in Casterly Rock. Making his way back towards his uncle who'd finally broke free from Lyrax and frozen tears were on his cheeks at what had just happened. He remembered it well, the moment Rhaegon allowed the bond to form in Greywater Watch. It had been confusing, exhilarating, overwhelming, and terrifying all at once.

"You are coming to Kings Landing with me, uncle. You don't deserve to spend the little time you have left freezing at the end of the world."

"A dragon alone in the world is a terrible thing."

It took his uncle only a day to pack up the few belongings he had. Putting it all into a crate which he had strapped to the bottom of Rhaegon's saddle. Seeing the fear on his uncles face but he trusted Jaeron, and Jaeron knew his mount would not harm him in any way. Silver dragon seeming to understand as he pressed his body as low to the ground as he possible could beside a few crates that had been arranged to be makeshift stairs to make it easier.

"You'll be okay, uncle."

Carefully helping him on and ensuring the chains were as secure as possible before taking his own seat, shackling both sets of chains together for good measure.

"We'll remain low and go slower than usual."

The words seemed to fall on deaf ears as Rhaegon began running to pick up momentum before slowly anscending into the sky. Hearing his uncle take a sharp breath before letting out a loud yell of complete delight at the sensation. A warmth running through him at hearing such a thing. They stopped thrice along the way. Once near White Harbour, once close to the Inn at the Crossroads, and lastly close to Rosby. Jaeron would make the journey himself in one leg as he had done when he had headed to the Wall, but he didn't want to strain the elderly man any more than necessary. Finally landing in the Godswood of Kings Landing, watching people scattering as they got closer to the ground. Guiding Rhaegon towards one of the many benches to use as a step before climbing down and helping his uncle do so too.

"It has been so long since I was last in Kings Landing. How many decades? How much time has passed is something I have not thought of in a long time."

He continued to ramble before people broke to where they were. Seeing Margaery there which brought a true smile to his face which was quickly wiped by the worried expression she wore. They didn't know one another well yet, but he had learned quickly she never let her political mask fall. Something else had happened, and it was not good news. Ser Arthur appeared not long after and for a moment his eyes were blazing before softening at realising who was with him.

"Have the servants ready a room beside mine own for my granduncle, it has been a long few days."

That it had. One of the guards moving to do just that as they made their way inside the Red Keep. Making their way to his own solar and helping his uncle sit down on the bed and ordering he get some much needed sleep. Aemon didn't fight him on the matter, knowing the order was given and he done just that. Entering one of the spare rooms before Arthur all but exploded on him.

"You cannot disappear like that, your Grace! The city has been worried sick! The people are terrified! Lord's and Ladies were whispering treason of how could you abandon them at such a time?!"

All Jaeron could do was to look down. Knowing he deserved the verbal lashing he was getting. Arthur continuing to rant and only when he paused for breath did he step in.

"I apologise for disappearing and leaving no note or telling anyone. I just- with everything that had been revealed I needed to clear my head away from it all where nobody would be able to see me in such a state. I promise I will never do so again, Ser Arthur, my Lady."

It was clear they didn't wholly accept the apology but both chose not to speak any further on the matter.

"What happened in the few days I was gone?"

The question was asked quietly, knowing whatever he was about to be told was what had caused such an uncomfortable look on his betrothed. Both looking to one another before Ser Arthur nodded. Margaery walking over to take his hands in her own and squeeze them softly.

"Word has arrived from Riverrun, your Grace. There was an ambush by a Westerland's army."

No.

"Please no- "

"Ser Brynden was able to escape, Prince Robb has been taken captive. Lady Catelyn however- I am so sorry, my love. I know you weren't wholly close with her but she was your family."

Immediately tears came to his eyes as fear gripped him tightly. Finally, Joffrey was moving from wherever the hell he was.

"There's more. A raven arrived this morning from the Vale. Lysa Arryn is dead, threw herself from the moon door. Her husband has named himself Lord Protector of the Vale until her son is of age to rule in his own right."