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Chapter Text

“You are my sister, but I am king now.”, Jon confronts Sansa mad.

“Will you start wearing a crown?”

“When you question my decisions in front of the other lords and ladies, you undermine me.”

“So, I can't question your decisions anymore?”

“Of course, you can, but just …”

“Joffrey never let anyone question his authority. Do you think he was a good king?
Jon stops walking, making Sansa stop too.

“Do you think I'm Joffrey?”

“You're as far from Joffrey as anyone I've ever met.”

“Thank you.”

“You're good at this, you know.”

Before Jon can asks, what she meant with it, Maester Wolkan walks up to them with a raven scroll.

“A raven from King's Landing, your grace.”, he says and hands Jon the scroll, bows, and departs.

“Cersei of House Lannister, first of her name, Queen of the Andals and the First Men, protector of the Seven Kingdoms.”, he reads out loud.

“What does she want?”, Sansa asks interested.

Jon sighs.

“Come to King's Landing, bend the knee, or suffer the fate of all traitors.”, he continuous.

“You've been so consumed with the enemy to the north, you've forgotten about the one to the south.”

“I'm consumed with the Night King because I've seen him. And believe me, you'd think of little else if you had too.”

“We still have a Wall between us and the Night King. There's nothing between us and Cersei.”, Sansa answers.

“There's a thousand miles between us and Cersei. Winter is here. The Lannisters are a southern army. They've never ranged this far north.”

“Jon is right.”, Visenya says, after listening to their conversation for a few minutes.

“Is everything alright? You hastily left the hall earlier.”, asks Jon his sister worried.

“Aye, only another vision. I have news from Daenerys. She just landed on Dragonstone with her dragons.”

“So, it is true what everyone says. She also has dragons.”, Sansa says with a strange tone. “Is she here to conquer Westeros?”, she asks.

“Aye. She has a large armada and around 110 000 men who fight for her. And her three dragons.”

“We have only around 30 000 men. We will need her help, when the army of the death marches against us.”

“Aye, but that's a snag for another day. I look after my wounded knights. See you later.”, Visenya says goodbye and goes away.

Chapter Text

Later that day, Jon wants to meet with Visenya in her room. When he enters her bedchamber, he immediately spots Cedric, who sits on a table in her room and eats.

"Uhm ... where is Visenya?" Asks Jon surprised when he doesn't find her in the room.

"Why do you want to know?" Asks Cedric coldly and looks at the man in front of him suspiciously.

Visenya spends a lot of time with him, which Cedric displeases. Even when they were at Castle Black, Visenya spent almost every free minute with her bastard cousin. The knight often observed the two laughing exuberantly and exchanging intimate gestures. Cedric didn't know the feeling of jealousy, but every time he sees Jon and Visa together, he feels a paining stab in his heart and his anger at Jon grows. Even if Visenya confessed her feelings to him and kept telling him that she loved him, they never went further than kissing. Cedric slowly wonders if she is just holding him out and he is seized by the feeling of fear and, at the same time, of furious anger.

"I have something important to discuss with her," Jon replies politely.

"She's not here." Cedric growls irritably, whereupon Jon looks at him in surprise.

Jon noticed very soon that Cedric loves his sister and he thinks it's nice that Visa has someone who supports her, builds her up and is there for her. What he does not understand, however, is why the knight is so cold and dismissive towards him. It almost seems like he hates him for some inexplicable reason.

"Where is she?", Jon asks again, but when he doesn't get an answer he continues. "Is she with her dragons?"

"What ...?" Asks Cedric and chokes on his food.

“At Castle Black, she introduced me to Hope. Dragons are really impressive creatures.", Jon tries to start a conversation, but Cedric sees red and jumps up angrily just as Visenya enters the room.

Visenya doesn't show anyone else her dragons. Now he was pretty sure that something was going on between them and he wasn't at all enthusiastic.

"What's going on here?" Asks Visenya and raises her eyebrow questioningly, when she notices that Cedric is about to freak out.

“Uhm, I just wanted to ask where the little one is. I haven't seen her in days.", Jon says, whereupon Cedric looks back and forth between Visa and Jon, confused.

“She is safe with the others. I can bring you to her tomorrow.", says Visa, careful not to tell Cedric that they are talking about Lyraxa.

“Thank you, Visenya. Then see you tomorrow. Good night.”, Jon says goodbye and leaves the room.

As soon as the door closes, Cedric turns to Visenya with wildly blazing eyes.

"What was that and why is he just coming into your room?" Asks Cedric through clenched teeth and clenches his fists.

"Jon just asked me something and also, why shouldn't he come into my room?" Asks Visenya, confused by Cedric's hostile attitude towards Jon.

"You can tell me if you need some privacy.", snaps Cedric, hurt. "You don't have to pretend it isn't in front of me and talk to you with any code words."

"Cedric, what's wrong with you?"

"What's wrong with me? Are you serious. A few days ago, you said you loved me, but since we've been here in Winterfell you've stuck to Jon like a fly to honey. Just tell me if you want me to go back to Castle Wolveshowl so that you and Jon are undisturbed.”, Cedric growls aggressively.

Visenya has never seen him so angry. His eyes look like they're about to spray flames and his hands are clenched in fists. He talks strange things and ... Suddenly Visenya it falls like scales from the eyes and she looks at him in disbelief.

"You're jealous.", She states surprised and when she sees Cedric's caught look she shakes her head giggling. “You seriously think Jon and I ... by the gods. I'm a Targaryen, but that doesn't mean that I do something with my family members. Especially with my brother."

"Wait! Brother?”, Asks Cedric, confused.

"Oh, shit. I completely forgot that you didn't know.", Visenya notices her mistake.

"What do I not know?", asks Cedric suspiciously, whereupon Visenya weighs up whether she should tell him, even if Jon wants to keep it a secret, but she trusts him completely. He would never tell anyone.

“Jon is my twin brother and not Ned's bastard. His real name is Aegon Targaryen. Sixth of his name and heir to the Iron Throne.", Visenya says in a lowered voice, in case they are overheard for whatever reason.

"Oh!" Is the only thing Cedric can manage before hanging his head in shame.

How could he have thought that Visenya was cheating on him with Jon in front of his eyes. He couldn't have been more wrong. Now he feels like the dumbest idiot in all of Westeros.

"I cannot believe it. You're really jealous of Jon.", Visenya says incredulously. “Did you really think that I was cheating on you? In front of your eyes, while I tell you every damn day that I love you?”, Visenya asks, whereupon Cedric looks at her guiltily. "Wow. I don't know whether to be touched or disappointed."

“I'm so sorry, Visenya. You are the smartest, strongest, most beautiful and most unique woman I know. Every day I ask myself why you can love someone like me."

“Cedric Dayne. Don't tell me you think so bad of yourself. You are the first man who showed me how love feels and you are the only person I really and completely feel at home with. I keep telling you, but I can tell you again. I love you and always will.", says Visenya and keeps walking towards Cedric until she can feel his breath on her lips.

Longing and suppressed desire flares up in her eyes and is reflected in Cedric's eyes. Cedric greedily presses his lips to hers and almost eats her face. He grabs her by the hips and presses her against the nearest wall.

Visenya groans in surprise and wraps her hands around his neck. Visenya rubs her throbbing middle on Cedric's groin, which makes him growl in excitement and he presses her even harder against the wall, so that no more sheet fits between them. Their tongues duel in a heated battle for the upper hand. Breathing heavily, the two break up after a few minutes to look each other in the eye. That was the moment when they always stopped. They never went a step further. They are both inexperienced and cautious.

Cedric looks at Visenya questioningly, but she tampered with his armor, which Cedric sees as permission to open her armor as well. Their hands are shaking and their hearts are beating so wildly against their chests it is almost painful. A few seconds later, both Cedric and Visenya's armor fall to the ground.

Cedric holds out his hand invitingly to Visenya, which she immediately takes. Slowly he leads her to her bed, which is covered with warm furs, and gently puts her down. Carefully, to stop at the slightest sign of discomfort or doubt, he crawls on Visenya. But his worries that he might force her to do something are completely unfounded. Visenya is ready to take this step with him. Together.

They slowly feel their way forward together. First, Visenya Cedric pulls the undershirt off his body. With her mouth open, Vienya runs over Cedric's well-defined belly. She's seen him shirtless so many times in life, but then they were still kids. Now he's a man. Well trained and muscular. Masculine. Goosebumps form where the Queen touches Cedric's skin with her hands and he smiles gently.

He carefully moves his hands under her undershirt and looks at her waiting. When she nods, he pulls the piece of clothing from her body and draws in a sharp breath when he sees her well-formed breasts.

"You are so beautiful.", Cedric breathes with so much pleasure in his voice, which causes hot, electric shocks to twitch through Visenya's body and discharge into her heated abdomen.

Cedric greedily kisses her neck and sucks lightly on the tender meat, which elicits a pleasurable moan from her. He kisses his way further, up to her breasts. First, he takes one breast and then the other in his mouth and sucks lightly on it. Visenya happily arches her back and invites Cedric to continue. Spurred on by her satisfied sigh, he becomes bolder and begins to knead her breasts while he pampers her neck with kisses. Visenya trembles with lust and, overwhelmed, closes her eyes.

The throbbing in her vagina is becoming more and more uncomfortable and she has a strong need to touch there. Impatiently she presses her wet pussy against Cedric's throbbing erection. In response, he lets go of her breasts and fiddles with Visenya's waistband. Before opening it, he looks for any doubt in her gaze, but there are none. Just burning desire and love.

He opens her pants and takes them off. Cedric looks breathlessly at Visenya in all her beauty. Due to his blind jealousy, he didn't even notice that Visenya's hair has returned to its beautiful silver color and only slight traces of the brown color have remained. She must have washed the paint off before she got into the room. Now they are like a fan around her head. Visenya looks like an angel. His angel. After he has drawn in sight of her for a few minutes, he gets up and takes off his pants.

His manhood pops out. Stiff and rock-hard. Ready for his queen. Visenya unconsciously bites her lip at the sight of his cock. Slowly she lets her gaze wander over his bare body until she comes back to his eyes. She practically begs with her gaze that he should come back to her. Like a wild animal, which hunts his prey, he crawls back on the bed and leans over her. His cock brushes the inside of Visenya's thighs. Immediately she tenses up and her insides tingle. It was the first time for her that she saw a man completely naked. Let alone the touch of his manhood on her.

"I ... it's my first time.", Visenya nervously admits, whereupon Cedric looks at her in surprise and then smiles gently.

"For me too.", says Cedric, swallowing a hard one to moisten his dry throat.

"Then we will find out together.", Visenya decides and tries to relax.

“Are you sure?” Asks Cedric as a precaution, because he doesn't want to push her to do anything, she doesn`t want.

"Yes, I am.", Visenya replies more confidently than she feels, but she has no doubts.

She trusts Cedric completely. He's the only one she can imagine giving her virginity away.

She slowly opens her thighs to make room for Cedric, who pulls the fluffy duvet over them to give them more intimacy. Then he supports himself with one elbow and grabs his rock-hard manhood with his other hand, which is throbbing impatiently. He carefully places his cock at Visenya's entrance while she grips his upper arm with one hand and the blanket with the other.

Cedric looks Visenya in the eye and she gives him an encouraging smile. He slowly slides into her warm, damp cave. Overstrained, Visenya gasps as Cedric's manhood stretches her insides to the utmost. A sharp pain runs through her abdomen and she squeezes her eyes together so that the tears that collect in her eyes do not flow. She just lost her virginity. Cedric notices it immediately and pauses.

"Go on.", she hisses through clenched teeth.

He slides into her even more slowly than before. When Cedric is completely inside her, he is careful not to move.

"Are you alright?" He asks worriedly when he sees a single tear flowing down Visenya's cheek.

"Yeah, I just need a little time to get used to it.", she replies, smiling encouragingly at him.

To distract her, Cedric caresses her breasts and spreads gentle kisses on Visenya's neck. Little by little the pain within her subsides and makes way for burning desire. Her middle begins to throb again and she squirms under his touch.

"Go on.", Visenya whimpers impatiently.

Cedric has apparently noticed that Visenya's pain has subsided as he slowly begins to withdraw from her, only to thrust into her again seconds later. Both moan in pleasure and Visenya claws at Cedric's back, which elicits a deep growl that makes her whole insides tingle. The pain is still there, but it is overshadowed by the pleasure that Visenya's body has completely under control.

Encouraged by Visenya's moaning and sighing, Cedric accelerates his pace and thrusts into her again and again. A sweet pressure builds up inside him and he knows he won't last much longer. He desperately wants Visenya to cum, so he lets his hand wander and begins to massage her clitoris. Visa groans in surprise and throws her head back.

"Aye.", she gasps, moving her hips against his.

Her insides tighten around Cedric's cock. When she thought the pressure was getting more and more unbearable, it discharged and she felt like jumping off a cliff only to land on a fluffy cloud which brings her to heaven.

"Cedric!", she moans loudly and sags.

Visenya's walls, twitching and drawing closer and closer around his cock, make him come a few moments later. Its hot seed completely fills Visenya and warms her from the inside.

"Visenya!" He growls and pumps into her a few more times before collapsing on top of her, breathing heavily.

Gasping for breath, Visenya grabs Cedric's hair and scratches his scalp, making him sigh contentedly in the crook of her neck. Visenya closes her eyes exhausted and enjoys the weight of Cedric on her body. Her mind is swept empty and she smiles contentedly.

After a while, Cedric rolls off her and pulls her to his chest.

"That was amazing.", breathes Cedric and gently kisses her forehead.

"You were amazing.", Visenya replies with a grin and gives him a kiss on the cheek before she cuddles up on his chest again.

Cedric lazily pulls the covers so that only their heads peek out.

"I love you.", Visneya sighs and closes her eyes with a yawn.

"I love you, too." breathes Cedric and pulls her closer to him.

A few moments later, they are both sound asleep. Happy and satisfied in each other's arms.

Chapter Text

The next morning Visenya wakes up by a knock on the door.

"My Queen?", Asks Sandry, after a few minutes have passed and he has not heard from his queen, whereupon Visenya startles and sits down on the edge of the bed.

"One minute.", Visenya replies and tries to orientate himself.

When she sees Cedric sleeping peacefully on the other half of the bed, the memories of last night suddenly come back. The thought of her loud moans and the lustful screams make her face red. I hope no one heard us, she thinks to herself. It's all so new to the young woman. When she remembers that Sandry is waiting outside her door, she gets up hastily. A sharp pain twitches through her abdomen and she draws in air sharply. She remains in her crooked posture for a short time before moving cautiously. The pain is still there, but it is bearable. She quickly throws on her dressing gown and goes to the door. She quickly straightens her hair and then opens her door.

"I'm really sorry that I woke you up, but there is news from Castle Wolfeshowl.", says Sandry. “The food deliveries have arrived. Cannel Luegos and A… “, reports Sandry, but Visenya puts her index finger on her lips and he falls silent.

“The walls have ears. Come in.", She hisses and opens the door invitingly for him when she notices that someone is standing around the corner and overhears them.

Only when she has closed the door behind her does she notice that a naked Cedric is lying in her bed and Sandry looks at him in surprise, before he clears his throat and turns back to his queen.

"Um ... what I ... I wanted to say." He stutters awkwardly and blushes. The knight is currently standing in his queen's bedchamber, in which her and Cedric's clothes are scattered on the floor and Cedric sleeps shirtless in her bed. He knew immediately what they were up to and it was uncomfortable for him.

"You said something about Cannel?", Visenya helps him on the jumps and resists the urge to look at the floor, embarrassed, because one of her knights is standing in the bedchamber in which she shagged Cedric wildly yesterday.

"Um ... yeah right ... I have a letter ... he and Arya arrived at Castle Wolfeshowl a few days ago with the supplies. According to Ser Marvin, they will be enough for the winter. Lord Stark asks about Catelyn and from Lady Morana I am to tell you that Lyanna is very well. She has already said her first words, but just read it through for yourself.”, Sandry decides and gives Visenya the raven scroll.

“Thank you, Sandry. Let the others know that if they are fit enough and want to go home, they have my permission to leave.”, offers Visenya.

"Thank you, Your Grace.", Thanks Sandry and quickly goes to the door to avoid the embarrassing situation. "I wish you a nice morning.", he says and then he was gone.

"I think we embarrassed him.", says Cedric and Visenya winced.

"How long have you been awake?", She asks and blushes when Cedric sits up and the blanket only covers to his V-line.

"Since Sandry knocked."

"And you didn't get the idea of getting dressed, but decided to stay naked in my bed to embarrass me in front of one of my knights.", Visenya accuses him, but he just grins.

"Yesterday you didn't mind screaming all over Winterfell.", jokes Cedric with a giggle. The next moment one of the fallen pllows lands on his face and he falls silent.

"I am just joking. You were amazing yesterday.", Cedric admits and smiles gently at Visenya, who blushes and looks at her feet.

“We should get dressed and have breakfast. I also have to look after my dragons. ", Visenya says evasively and opens her dressing gown.

She elegantly drops it on the floor. Cedric, who has just got up, cannot take his eyes off her. Just looking at it makes his blood flow into a certain region and he swallows hard. Only when Visenya has dressed and is about to close her armor she notices that Cedric is watching her.

"What?" She asks when she sees his intensive gaze.

"You are so beautiful.", he says hoarsely, which makes her smile and sends a pleasant shiver through her body.

“I look at the dragons. We'll meet at breakfast.”, she says, kisses him on the cheek and leaves the room.

"Fuck." Cedric curses when he sees his stiff cock. "This woman will kill me one day."

.

“Lady Visa!” Someone shouts as Visenya comes into the courtyard.

“Lord Baelish. What can I do for you?”, she asks with a cold look. She wants to go to her dragons and not have to deal with the man that nearly made Ned lose his head.

“I would like to get to know you better. Rumor has it that you own a castle on the wall and call yourself queen."

"I am the queen beyond the wall."

"Then why do you have a castle in front of the wall?" He asks with interest. “And why was one never heard of you until a few moons ago?"

"The people who ask too many questions often disappear."

"Is that a threat?"

“More like well-intentioned advice. If you'll excuse me now. I have something to do.", Visenya tries to get rid of the annoying Littlefinger, but she pauses at his next sentence.

“You'd better hide your hair if you don't want to be exposed. The Northmen don't like outsiders, like Targaryens.”, he says in a hushed tone.

"Who says I'm a Targaryen?" Visenya replies carefully before continuing on her way.

She makes a mental note to keep an eye on Petyr Baelish and not to underestimate him. The man is dangerous. Possibly even more dangerous than Varys with his birds.

After making sure that no one is following her, she moves away from Winterfell and calls out for her dragons. She frowns in perplexity when only Vhagario and Meraxo, carrying Lyraxa on his back, land.

"Where's Hope?" She asks, confused, but then she has a bad suspicion.

She sits down on a rock and tries to warg into Hope, but she can't. Hope blocks her. She did this for the first time.

"Fuck.", Visenya curses and runs to Meraxo, who looks at her in surprise.

"We have to find Hope before she finds Drogon.", Visenya explains hastily as she climbs onto Meraxo.

As soon as she sits on him, he rises and swings elegantly into the sky. Lyraxa, who is also sitting on Meraxo's back, eyes her suspiciously and tilts her head.

"Hey, little one. We didn't have the best start. We should start all over again. Don`t you think?”, She offers the baby dragon in Valyrian.

Lyraxa cautiously crawls closer and sniffs Visenya's hand.

.

The closer they get to Dragonstone, the greater Visenya's fear grows that Hope has long been with Drogon. Under no circumstances should her aunt see the white dragon. She must be led to believe that her three dragons are the only ones in the world. At least until she invites Jon to Dragonstone. Just when she thinks they are too late, she sees Hope on an island, where she is catching fish. She breathes a sigh of relief and Meraxo lands also on the island not far from the rocks on which Dragonstone was built. Visenya lets herself slide down from Meraxo and slowly approaches the smallest of her dragons.

"Hey, sweetheart.", She says carefully, whereupon Hope turns to her and growls.

Only now does Visenya notice the cave that looms in the middle of the island. Before she can even put her thoughts together, there is a bloodcurdling roar and the sun darkens briefly as Drogon, who is now almost as big as Meraxo, lands on the rugged land. He growls warningly at the intruders. Vhagario immediately lowers his head, but Meraxo creeps closer to protect his mother. The two male dragons circle each other aggressively.

Visenya shrinks back in panic when she realizes the dire situation she is in at the moment. Hope has already found Drogon and if she reads the signs correctly, they are currently on their nesting island. She has read enough books to know that dragons protect their nesting sites with their lives.

As soon as she has thought the thought, Drogon attacks Meraxo. The two males aggressively snap at one another. Both dragons seem to be equal and scratch each other's flaky skin. After a while Drogon manages to grab Meraxo by the neck, whereupon Meraxo whines in pain. A noise that goes through Visenya, like a sword through her heart. Drogon bites harder and harder and Merxo tries to wriggle out of his bite.

Just as Visenya thinks he's killing him, a shadow hisses past her. In the next moment Vhagario knocks over Drogon and fixes him on the ground. The two brothers nail the black dragon to the ground so that he cannot move. Just as Visenya thinks that the danger is over, Drogon utters a cry for help. Not a second later he receives an answer. Viserion and Rhaegal are on their way to support their brother.

Visenya hastily grabs Lyraxa and calls Vhagario, who immediately let`s go of Drogon and lies down so that she can get on.

"Let`s get away from here. Immediately!” She commands her dragon in a panic when she sees that Drogon frees himself from Meraxo's iron grip.

Vhagario hastily takes a run and rises into the air. Meraxo follows them and together they leave the island where Drogon spreads his wings and roars with confidence. When Visenya looks back at the island, she sees Hope snuggles against Drogon and lick his wounds that Meraxo and Vhagario have left on his skin.

Sadly, Visenya resists the urge to let her tears run free. Hope is the only thing left from Lyra. She couldn't stand it if she lost the white dragon to Drogon forever, but as the saying goes. "If you love someone, you should let it go." Visenya tries to be happy for her dragon and not to be so selfish, but she saw Hope's eyes that looked at her as if she were a stranger. An enemy. For the first time in her life she was scared.

Afraid of her own dragon.

Chapter Text

That night a wild storm raged over Dragonstone. Daenerys stands around the table, in the form of Westeros, with Tyrion, Varys, Missandei and Grey Worm in the conference room. One of the Immaculate has just walked in and whispered something in Gray Worm's ear.

“Forgive me, my queen.”, Grey Worm says. “A red priestess from Asshai has come to see you.”

Together they go to the throne room where Melisandre is waiting.

“Queen Daenerys. I was a slave once, bought and sold, scourged and branded. It is an honor to meet the Breaker of Chains.”, she says in Valyrian.

“The red priests helped bring peace to Meereen. You are very welcome here. What is your name?”

“I am called Melisandre.”

“She once served another who wanted the Iron Throne.”, Varys interferes in the common tongue. “It didn't end well for Stannis Baratheon, did it?”

“No. It didn't.”

“You chose an auspicious day to arrive at Dragonstone. We've just decided to pardon those who once served the wrong king. The Lord of Light doesn't have many followers in Westeros, does he?”

“Not yet. But even those who don't worship the Lord can serve his cause.”

“What does your Lord expect from me?”

“The Long Night is coming. Only the prince who was promised can bring the dawn.”, Melisandre tells her the prophecy in Valyrian.

“"The prince who was promised will bring the dawn."”, Daenerys translates. “I'm afraid I'm not a prince.”

“Your Grace, forgive me, but your translation is not quite accurate. That noun has no gender in High Valyrian. So, the proper translation for that prophecy would be, "The prince or princess who was promised will bring the dawn.", Missandei corrects her queen.

“Doesn't really roll off the tongue, does it?”, Tyrion jokes.

“No, but I like it better. And you believe this prophecy refers to me?”, Daenerys asks.

“Prophecies are dangerous things.”, Melisandre answers carefully. “I believe you have a role to play. As does another, the King in the North, Jon Snow.”

“Jon Snow? Ned Stark's bastard?”, Tyrion says surprised.

“You know him?”, Daenerys asks interested.

“I traveled with him to the Wall when he joined the Night's Watch.”

“And why do you think the Lord of Light singled out this Jon Snow? Aside from the visions you've seen in the flames, that is.”, Varys asks the red priestess suspiciously.

“As Lord Commander of the Night's Watch, he allowed the wildlings south of the Wall to protect them from grave danger. As King in the North, he has united those wildlings with the Northern houses, so together they may face their common enemy.”, she answers and thinks about to tell them about Visenya, but the queen sent her here to only tell them about Jon and she will accept that.

“He sounds like quite a man.”, Daenerys says interested.

“Summon Jon Snow. Let him stand before you and tell you the things that have happened to him. The things he has seen with his own eyes.”

“I can't speak to prophecies or visions in the flames, but I like Jon Snow, and I trusted him. And I am an excellent judge of character. If he does rule the North, he would make a valuable ally. The Lannisters executed his father, and conspired to murder his brother. Jon Snow has even more reason to hate Cersei than you do.”, tells Tyrion his queen.

“Very well. Send a raven north. Tell Jon Snow that his queen invites him to come to Dragonstone. And bend the knee.”, Daenerys decides.

Melisandre briefly closes her eyes in exasperation. Jon, and especially Visenya, would never kneel before Daenerys. She is sure of that.

.

“You think it's really Tyrion?”, Sansa asks doubtful. “It could be someone trying to lure you into a trap.”

“Read the last bit.”, Jon commands.

“"All dwarves are bastards in their father's eyes." What does that mean?”

“It's something he said to me the first night we met.”, Jon tells her and then turns to Davos who read the letter out loud.

"The Seven Kingdoms will bleed as long as Cersei sits on the Iron Throne. Join us. Together we can end her tyranny." Sounds like a charmer. Of course, the casual mention of a Dothraki horde, a legion of Unsullied and three dragons, a bit less charming, but Visenya have also three dragons. So they shouldn`t be a problem.”

“Two. I have two dragons left.”, Visenya interrupts the conversation.

“What? Why?”, Jon asks shocked.

“Not here. I will explain it later.”, Visenya ends the conversation about her dragons before it even begins. She just has no nerve for it now.

“Is this the letter in which Daenerys invites you to Dragonstone to bend the knee?”, she chances the topic.

“Ehm, aye. How do you know?”, Jon asks confused.

“From my Visions.”

“What did he do in your Vision?”, Sansa asks interested.

“He sails to Dragonstone and … nevermind. You`ll see.”, Visenya stops herself from reveal too much. “We need her help and you have to convince her to help us.”

“Why don't you talk to her. She's your aunt.”, Sansa whispers to her.

"When the time is right. I don't want her to see me as a threat. In addition, I have to look for my people. I will fly to Dragonstone afterwards.", Visenya says in a lowered tone, after making sure that no one overhears her.

"Then I should pack my things.", Davos says goodbye and the three cousins go to Jon's room after they have also fetched Cedric, who was terribly worried about Visenya because she had been gone for a whole day.

"What did you mean by you only have two dragons left?", Jon asks carefully.

"Hope is now the mate of Drogon, Daenerys dragon, and nests on an island near Dragonstone.", Visenya replies curtly and emotionless, but Cedric sees exactly that his girlfriend is touched by Hopes decision.

"Then Daenerys will have seen her already.", concludes Jon.

"Not necessarily. Female dragons don't leave their brood island until her eggs are hatched. Lyra disappeared shortly before she lays her egg and I still don't know where she was. She came back with Hope after a few months. Even if Lyra and I had a strong bond, I didn't know she laid an egg. I think Drogon does too. We must remember that dragons are wild animals that follow their instincts and drives. If you'll excuse me. I have to see after Meraxo. Drogon almost killed him because he wanted to protect me.", says Visenya bitterly and leaves the room.

Chapter Text

“Do I have your support?”

“You have mine.”

“Dorne is with you, Your Grace.”

“Thank you, all.”, Daenerys ends the meeting with her allies. “Lady Olenna, may I speak with you alone?”, she asks politely.

After the door is closed, Daenerys take a seat and looks to the old woman.

“I realize you're here out of hatred for Cersei and not love for me. But I swear to you, she will pay for what she's done. And we will bring peace back to Westeros.”

“Peace? Do you think that's what we had under your father? Or his father? Or his? Peace never lasts, my dear. Will you take a bit of advice from an old woman?”, Olenna asks and Daenerys nods interested. “He's a clever man, your Hand. I've known a great many clever men. I've outlived them all. You know why?”, the old woman asks and answers. “I ignored them.”, she says to the young woman and takes a breath before she continuous. “The lords of Westeros are sheep. Are you a sheep? No. You're a dragon. Be a dragon.”, Olenna insists, whereupon Daenerys smiles.

Yes, she will be a dragon. Cersei will regret that she dared to claim what`s hers by right. She is the heir to the Iron Throne and she will take back what`s hers. With fire and blood.

.

“This message was sent to me by Samwell Tarly. He was my brother at the Night's Watch, a man I trust as much as anyone in this world. He's discovered proof that Dragonstone sits on a mountain of dragonglass.”, Jon begins the report, whereupon everyone in the room murmuring. “I received this a few days ago from Dragonstone. It was sent to me by Tyrion Lannister.”, he continuous while everyone is murmuring louder by the mention of the dwarf. “He is now Hand of the Queen to Daenerys Targaryen. She intends to take the Iron Throne from Cersei Lannister. She has a powerful army at her back, and three dragons. Lord Tyrion has invited me to Dragonstone to meet with Daenerys. And I'm going to accept. We need this dragonglass, my lords. We know that dragonglass can destroy both White Walkers and their army. We need to mine it and turn it into weapons. But more importantly, we need allies. The Night King's army grows larger by the day. We can't defeat them on our own. We don't have the numbers. Daenerys has her own army, and she has dragonfire. I need to try and persuade her to fight with us. Ser Davos and I will ride for White Harbor tomorrow, then sail for Dragonstone.”

“Have you forgotten what happened to our grandfather? The Mad King invited him
to King's Landing and roasted him alive.”, says Sansa angrily and surprises Jon and Visa, who look at her shocked.

“Sansa? What …”, Jon wants to silence her. He is shocked of Sansas action to complot against Daenerys and his plan to make her to an ally.

“She is here to reclaim the Iron Throne and the Seven Kingdoms. The North is one of those seven kingdoms. This isn't an invitation, it's a trap.”, Sansa continues and receives affirmative answers from all over the room.

That's when Visenya realizes that maybe Sansa is playing a wrong game. A furtive glance at Lord Baelish, who smiles sneaky confirms her suspicions. The two plots against Jon and her. Surely Catelyn is behind this. Worried, she looks at the lords, who are increasingly on the Sansa's side, and decides to intervene without further ado. How naive was she to believe that Catelyn would have changed just because there was everything great between her and Ned.

“You don`t know that.”, Jon defends Daenerys.

“Your Grace, with respect, I must agree with Lady Sansa. I remember the Mad King all too well. A Targaryen cannot be trusted.”

"Then why do you have a Targaryen dine with you and invite her to meetings?", Visenya asks, whereupon all conversations fall silent.

Jon looks at her in shock and shakes his head slightly. Visenya just nods and points to herself.

"King Snow. Can you tell the revered Lords who I am? I think many of them have asked these questions lately.", Visa orders her brother, who hesitates for some seconds before he turns to the lords, who look at him questioned.

“My Lords. This is Visenya Targaryen. She grew up in a castle by the wall to keep her hidden from Robert Baratheon. Therefor Daenerys Targaryen isn`t the first Targaryen we deal with and I don`t think she would invite me to burn me alive. And if she does intend to kill me, my cousin will protect me and take me away from there. Together with her dragons.”

"My aunt is not the only one who has dragons and I am loyal to the north.", adds Visenya.

"With all due respect, my King. Forgive me if I don't believe you. All Targaryen except Daenerys Stormborn and her late brother Viserys were killed during Robert`s rebellion."

"I agree with Lord Manderly. There is no evidence for this flimsy fairy tale that you are serving us up.", Lord Glover agrees.

"If you've got dragons, why haven't they been seen before?", interjects Lady Lyanna.

"You don't look like a Targaryen at all.", says another in the back row.

"I can understand that this all sounds very crazy to you, but I would never ...", says Jon, but breaks off when Visenya takes off her hood, which had completely hidden Visenya's hair.

Visenya's silver-colored curly hair falls loosely over her shoulders and reaches her belly button. In the light of the candles her hair looks like it's on fire. Any brown color that covered her gorgeous hair color is gone. Jon has never seen her real hair color before. He's flashed and immediately wonders if Daenerys has the same hair color. Confused about his thoughts, he shakes his head and turns back to the Lords, who look at Daenerys with different expressions. Amazement, hate, jealousy, fear and distrust.

“If you come with me later, I can show you my dragons or you will see them when they fly over Winterfell. Now that I don't have to hide them anymore. I know and see that you don't trust me. You have good reasons. The mad king has terrorized you and all of Westeros. Don`t judge me for the sins of my grandfather. I will always stand behind the north. I grew up here and have spent my entire life here. When I have to choose between Daenerys Targaryen or you, my choice would be you. Always.”

"If you have dragons, then why do we need Daenerys. I don't want to say that I trust you, but better you, who spent all your life in the north, than a southern conqueror."

"I have seen the army of the dead. My dragons will not be enough by far. The Night King has already killed one of my dragons. We cannot and must not rely on dragon fire alone. We need a large army. Daenerys has 110,000 men and the support of House Tyrell, House Martell and half of House Greyjoy. We have to convince her to fight with us. We need her help."

"How do we know you're not going to Dragonstone to ally with her and betray the north?", Lord Royce asks suspicious.

"That's exactly why I won't come with them, when they sail to Dragonstone. Our king will negotiate with Daenerys Targaryen, but I will stay near to help him if needed.", Visenya promises and Jon makes a speech to gain the lords approval.

“You all crowned me your king. I never wanted it. I never asked for it. But I accepted it
because the North is my home. It's part of me and I will never stop fighting for it, no matter the odds. But the odds are against us. None of you have seen the Army of the Dead, none of you, expect Visenya and I. We can never hope to defeat them alone. We need allies, powerful allies. I know it's a risk. But I have to take it. Daenerys is a queen. Only a king can convince her to help us. It has to be me.”

“You're abandoning your people. You're abandoning your home.”, Sansa tries to bring the lords on her side, when she realizes that it seems that the Lords respects Visenya in their middle, even if she is a Targaryen. This bitch won again. Her mother won`t be happy about it.

“I'm leaving both in good hands.”, Jon continuous and Visenya knows what he will says next.

“Whose?”

“Yours. You are my … sister. You're the only Stark in Winterfell. Until I return, the North is yours.”, Jon says, whereupon Sansas eyes rounded and she nods.

Then Jon ends the meeting and goes to the crypts. Visenya intercepts Sansa in the hallway and pushes her into one of the empty rooms. After closing the door behind her, she turns to Sansa.

"Your father would have died because of Lord Baelish's betrayal. He would have sold you to the Boltons. He married and murdered your aunt to inherit the Eyrie. It was only because of him that you were all in danger in the first place. Remember this when you continue plotting against me and Jon with your mother and him.", says Visenya coolly and hands her a raven scroll. "You should read this. It's from your father. At some point everything will make sense sooner or later, Sansa."

Shocked and caught, Sansa looks at her cousin, but she has already left the room. Even if Sansa has the command in Winterfell now, she cannot and will not be able to turn the Lords against Jon. Catelyn forgot one thing. Visenya knows everything, sees everything, hears everything. The young woman will never allow an old jealous and bitter woman and her daughter whose mind is poisoned from her mother`s thoughts to endanger her brother's and aunt's life. Visenya lied about one thing to the lords.

She would always put her family above everything else. Even if that means betraying the north.

Chapter Text

While Jon sets off for Dragonstone with Ser Davos, Cedric and a few of his soldiers, Visenya flies to her castle to check if everything is alright. Ziko, one of her oldest friends and loyal knight, represents her in Winterfell for the time of her absence and keeps an eye on Sansa and Petyr.

"It's nice to see you again.", Ser Marvin greets her as she enters the castle.

“I'm happy to be home. Even if I can't stay long. Jon is on his way to Dragonstone."

“So, Daenerys is in Westeros. Now it's going to be exciting.", jokes the old man and accompanies his queen inside.

"Finally, you are here. I was wondering when you would show up.", Arya greets cheekily and throws herself around her neck when Visenya enters the hall.

“I missed you too, Arya. How was your time in Bravoos."

"Great, fantastic, breathtaking, exhausting and interesting.", she counts prancing around Visenya like a dog that has not seen its owner for ages.

“I heard you took Winterfell back. Is that true? Can we go home?”, asks Rickon with his voice full of hope.

“Aye, Winterfell belongs to the Starks again. Sansa is in charge right now."

"I thought Jon is the king?", Ned asks, confused.

"Aye, he's on an important mission to find allies against the army of the dead.", Visenya explains to her uncle without saying that it is Daenerys he is looking for.

“What about Catelyn? I heard that she managed to convince Lord Baelish to send the knights of the Vale to Winterfell."

"She's still in Eyrie while Sansa and Petyr are plotting against Jon and me.", Visenya replies honestly. "You should tell her the truth before anyone gets killed.", she continues in a whisper. "The Lords already know that I am a Targaryen."

"How did they react?", Ser Marvin asks, interested.

"Surprisingly good. They don't trust me, but they haven't locked me up or executed me. That's a good sign and a lot more than I expected. If you'll excuse me now. I'll check on Shireen and Lyanna. I haven't seen them in ages.", Visenya decides and leaves the hall.

She searches through the castle until she arrives at Morana's door. She hears voices from inside, which is why she opens the door. Visenya remains frozen at the scene that is being presented to her and her eyes widen.

Robb lies naked on the bed and moans while Morana rides him. Her breasts bob in time and she stretched her head back with pleasure. Visenya blushes and is about to close the door again when Morana sees her and stops, frightened. Robb opens his eyes and looks caught at his cousin.

"Sorry, I ...", Visenya stutters and closes the door behind her.

Surprised and shocked, she leans against the wall next to the door and closes her eyes. The picture will never get out of her head again. Before she can think about it any further, the door opens and Morana looks worriedly at her friend.

“Um, hey… Visenya. Sorry for seeing that.”, Morana says guiltily.

She wasn't embarrassed that her friend caught her having sex. For her, sex is something completely normal and she was never shy or reserved, but for Visenya it is certainly very uncomfortable to see her with her cousin.

"Alright. I'm good. I'm ... just surprised.", says Visenya surprisingly calm. "I should have knocked.", she jokes to loosen up the situation.

"That would have been a good idea, but I think we wouldn't have heard it anyway.", says Robb, who has put on his pants and has joined the women.

"Where's Lyanna?", Visenya asks distractingly.

"She is with Lominara together with Shireen."

"Then I'll check on them.", says Visenya and turns to go, but then she pauses. “It's nice to see you both happy. You deserve it. Both of you do", she says honestly and smiles at Morana and Robb, who look at her amazed.

They would have expected anything but that. Visenya has changed. Somehow, she has matured. Wise.

After Visenya has spent the rest of the day with Shireen and Lyanna, she goes to her bedchamber to get ready for bed. Just as she has put on her nightgown, someone knocks on her door.

“Come in!” Says Visenya and the door opens. "Hello, Morana."

"Hey. Do you have a minute?”, Morana asks cautiously.

"For you always. Come in.", Visenya invites her, whereupon she enters and the two women sit down on the couch by the balcony.

"Is it really okay for you that Robb and I ... he takes Lyana's custody and wants me to take over the mother role. Of course. Only if you agree. I ... “, Morana stutters uncertainly.

"Morana. Look into my eyes.”, Visenya asks her friend. “You are already Lyanna's mother. What kind of friend I would be to keep you from being happy. I saw Robb's look. He loves you and I`m totally sure that you love him too. You took him out of the deep hole he fell into when Talisa died. I could never take care of Lyanna the way you do, because to be honest I was and am not yet ready to raise a child. You know how important my freedom is to me and even if I love Lyanna, I'm not ready to take on such a big responsibility yet. One day I may have children of my own. But the time has not yet come when I want to give up all my freedoms for a child.”, Visenya says honestly and smiles gently at her friend. "I want nothing more than to see you happy."

“Since whenyou are so wise?” Jokes Morana, throwing herself around her friend's neck. "Thanks. That means a lot to me."

"You are my sister. Not by blood, but by heart. Never forget that."

"You have changed. What happened in the last few moons?”, Asks Morana, because she immediately noticed that something was bothering Visenya. She knows her friend too well.

"Very much. The short version. Daenerys is in Westeros. Hope is now Drogon's mate and nests on an island near Dragonstone. Jon Snow, my cousin, is currently on the way to see my aunt together with Cedric in order to win her as an ally. Catelyn and Sansa, along with Lord Baelish, have plotted against Jon and me. The Lords know that I am a Targaryen and…”, Visenya stops and blushes when she thinks of Cedric and their night together.

"And ...?" Asks Morana and raises her eyebrow questioningly.

"It can ... possibly ... Cedric and I did it."

"You slept together?", Morana squeaks excitedly and hugs her friend stormily. "How was it? How is he? Soft? Wild? How do you prefer it top or bottom? Has he licked you? Did he use his fingers?“, The questions gush out of Morana, whereupon Visenya's face turns red.

“We did it once, Morana. Calm down. It was the first time for both of us."

"What! Cedric fucking Dayne was still a virgin?”, Morana curses in disbelief. “By the seven gods. You two are really ... different.", she laughs.

"Is that a good thing?"

"Of course, it's a good thing if he hasn't shagged all over the castle before you. You story is such a fairy tale."

"Okay, okay. Change of subject.", giggles Visenya.

It was good to talk to her friend again. The queen didn't even notice how much she missed that. She can talk to Morana about anything. This is a luxury that many in their position do not have. For a brief moment she can forget all the things that will come her way. At this moment she is not a queen, but a young woman who is spending time with her best friend. Talking, laughing and teasing.

Chapter Text

Just before Jon and his entourage go ashore at Dragonstone, Visenya joins them. After a few more hours, their ship anchors off the coast and a small boat brings the travelers ashore.

„The bastard of Winterfell.“, Tyrion Lannister greets Jon Snow, when they arrive on the coast.

“The dwarf of Casterly Rock.”, Jon replys.

“I believe we last saw each other atop the Wall.”

“You were pissing off the edge if I remember right. Picked up some scars along the road.”, the young man says, looking at the dwarfs scar on his face.

“It's been a long road, but we're both still here.”, Jon says and gives his sister a glaze.

“I'm Tyrion Lannister.”, he introduces himself to Davos.

“Davos Seaworth.”

“Ah, the Onion Knight. We fought on opposite sides at the Battle of Blackwater Bay.”

“Unluckily for me.”, Davos jokes.

“Missandei is the queen's most trusted advisor.”, Tyrion introduces them to the brown-curled woman and then to Visenya, but no one introduces her.

“Welcome to Dragonstone. Our queen knows it is a long journey. She appreciates the efforts you have made on her behalf.”, she welcomes them. “If you wouldn't mind handing over your weapons.”, Missandei asks politely.

“Of course.”, Jon agrees, after some hesitation.

When one of the Dothraki tries to grab Cedric's sword, the knight pulls it back.

"Cedric, give him the sword.", Visenya hisses at him.

"No, it's the closest thing which I have left from my family.", he replies stubbornly.

“You get it back. Give him the sword. That's an order.”, Visenya growls urgently when she sees the Dothraki approach them.

Tyrion eyes the situation with interest, and his eyes widen when Visenya says something in Dothraki to the warrior to whom she gives Cedric's sword after she took it from him.

“Take care of the sword. It is very important and means a lot to my knight."

Surprised, the Dothraki soldiers eyed the young woman and the soldier, holding Cedric's sword, nodded in understanding.

“Please, this way.”, invites Missandei them and looks curiously at Visenya one more time before she leads her to the castle.

“Where are you from?”, Davos asks Missandei, trying to make a conversation. “I can't place the accent.”

“I was born on the Island of Naath.”

“Ah. I hear it's beautiful down there. Palm trees and butterflies. Haven't been, myself.”, he continuous, but Missandei only nods and stay silent.

“This place has changed.”, Ser Davos says to himself.

“And Sansa? I hear she's alive and well.”, Tyrion asks Jon, after they reached the steps that lead to the castle.

“She is.”

“That’s good to hear. She was such a lovely girl back then.”, the dwarf continuous, but Jon doesn`t say more about Sansa. “At some point, I want to hear how a Night's Watch recruit became King in the North.”, Tyrion tries to make a conversation.

“As long as you tell me how a Lannister became Hand to Daenerys Targaryen.”

“A long and bloody tale. To be honest, I was drunk for most of it.”, Tyrion says honestly.

“My bannermen think I'm a fool for coming here.”, Jon says and gives Visa a short glaze.

“Of course, they do. If I was your Hand, I would have advised against it. General rule of thumb... Stark men don't fare well when they travel south.”

“True... but I'm not a Stark.”, Jon says. Not only a Stark, Visenya thinks.

The next moment, Drogon flies past them so close that Jon and Davos crouch on the ground. Visenya stays upright and watches Drogon. Hopefully Hope is fine, Visenya hopes. Her thoughts are interrupted when Tyrion helps Jon up.

“I'd say you get used to them... but you never really do.”, notes Tyrion, but turns perplexed to the three northerners, who just clean off the dirt and pretend nothing has happened.

They put up with the sight of the dragons better than he did. Again, his gaze falls on the woman, whose hair and forehead are covered by a silk scarf. Who is she? Why did she come with Jon? Why didn't Jon introduce her to him? So many questions that concern Tyrion. Sooner or later, he will get his answer. He is sure of that.

“Come, their mother is waiting for you.”

After some more steps, they finally enter the castle. As they enter the throne room, Visenya looks around enthusiastically. This is a throne room to her liking. As she turns to Jon, she sees her brother's jaw dropping when he sees Daenerys for the first time. Then her gaze falls on Daenerys, who only seems to have eyes for Jon. The queen eyed the north man with interest. She seems impressed by him. That is based on reciprocity. In order not to attract attention, Visenya stays in the background and is listening curiously.

.

“I wondered why you weren't there to meet our guests. You begged us to summon the King in the North. Don't you want to see him again?”

“I've done my part. I've brought ice and fire together.”

“Strange. You spoke so highly of Jon Snow, but when he arrives, you hide on a cliff. I didn't take you for a bashful girl.”

“My time whispering in the ears of kings has come to an end.”

“Oh, I doubt that. Give us common folk one taste of power, we're like the lion who tasted man. Nothing is ever so sweet again.”

“Neither of us is common folk anymore.”

“I will meet with one of them afterwards. I would only be a distraction if I stayed for too long.”

“So, where will you go?”

“Volantis.”

“Good. If you don't mind my saying, I don't think you should return to Westeros. I'm not sure you'd be safe here.”

“Oh, I will return, dear Spider. One last time.”

“My lady ...”

“I have to die in this strange country. Just like you.”, Melisandre says and goes away.

.

“You stand in the presence of Daenerys Stormborn of House Targaryen, rightful heir to the Iron Throne, rightful Queen of the Andals and the First Men, Protector of the Seven Kingdoms, the Mother of Dragons, the Khaleesi of the Great Grass Sea, the Unburnt, the Breaker of Chains.”, Missandei introduces her queen.

“This is Jon Snow. He's King in the North.”, Ser Davos introduces Jon and Visenya has to resist laughing. Against Daenerys titles Jon`s title looks very powerless and unimportant.

“Thank you for traveling so far, my lord. I hope the seas weren't too rough.”, Daenerys says politely.

“The winds were kind, Your Grace.”, Jon replies and can't take his eyes off the beautiful woman in front of him, completely forgetting that she is his aunt..

“Apologies, I have a Flea Bottom accent, I know, but Jon Snow is King in the North, Your Grace. He's not a lord.”, Davos corrects Daenerys.

“Forgive me ...”, Daenerys answers and wonders who this man is.

“Your Grace, this is Ser Davos Seaworth.”, Tyrion introduces Ser Davos to his queen.

“Forgive me, Ser Davos. I never did receive a formal education, but I could have sworn I read the last King in the North was Torrhen Stark, who bent the knee to my ancestor, Aegon Targaryen. In exchange for his life and the lives of the Northmen, Torrhen Stark swore fealty to House Targaryen in perpetuity. Or do I have my facts wrong?”, she asks with a touch of arrogance in her voice. She hates being corrected, Visenya realizes.

“I wasn't there, Your Grace.”

“No, of course not. But still, an oath is an oath.”, Daenerys she rebukes Davos and smiles slightly. “And perpetuity means ... what does perpetuity mean, Lord Tyrion?”

“Forever.”, Tyrion answers.

“Forever. So, I assume, my lord ... you're here to bend the knee.”

“I am not.”, Jon says with a slight smile and looks her directly in the eyes.

“Oh. Well, that is unfortunate. You've traveled all this way to break faith with House Targaryen?”

“Break faith? Your father burned my grandfather alive. He burned my uncle alive. He would have burned the Seven Kingdoms ...”, says Jon and Visenya looks at him worried. She thinks challenging the queen is not a good idea. Daenerys does not yet know who they are and could harm them or decide not to ally with them.

“My father ... was an evil man. On behalf of House Targaryen ... I ask your forgiveness for the crimes he committed against your family. And I ask you not to judge a daughter by the sins of her father. Our two houses were allies for centuries, and those were the best centuries the Seven Kingdoms have ever known. Centuries of peace and prosperity with a Targaryen sitting on the Iron Throne and a Stark serving as Warden of the North. I am the last Targaryen, Jon Snow.”, says Daenerys, whereupon Jon gives Visenya a questioned look, but she slightly shakes her head. Not now. “Honor the pledge your ancestor made to mine. Bend the knee and I will name you Warden of the North. Together, we will save this country from those who would destroy it.”

Daenerys knows exactly what she wants. For a brief moment Visenya thinks about telling her aunt who they are, but decides against it when Jon continues.

“You're right. You're not guilty of your father's crimes. And I'm not beholden to my ancestor's vows.”, says Jon stubbornly, whereupon Daenery's slight smile disappears and she looks slightly annoyed.

“Then why are you here?”

“Because I need your help, and you need mine.”, Jon says intensely, whereupon Tyrion and Daenerys exchange a look.

“Did you see three dragons flying overhead when you arrived?”

“I did.”

“And did you see the Dothraki, all of whom have sworn to kill for me?”

“They're hard to miss.”

“But still, I need your help?”

“Not to defeat Cersei. You could storm King's Landing tomorrow and the city would fall. Hell, we almost took it and we didn't even have dragons.”, Ser Davos says and enters the conversation again.

“Almost.”, Tyrion corrects him.

“But you haven't stormed King's Landing. Why not? The only reason I can see is you don't want to kill thousands of innocent people. It's the fastest way to win the war, but you won't do it, which means, at the very least, you're better than Cersei.”, Jon says and exchange a short look with Visenya, who smiles at him encouraging.

“Still, that doesn't explain why I need your help.”, Daenerys replies and slightly smiles by his compete. She kinda likes him. He has fire in him.

“Because right now, you and I and Cersei and everyone else, we're children playing at a game, screaming that the rules aren't fair.”, Jon uses a metaphor and Visenya rolls with her eyes. He shouldn`t have said that.

“You told me you liked this man.”, Daenerys blames Tyrion slightly annoyed

“I do.”

“In the time since he's met me, he's refused to call me queen, he's refused to bow, and now he's calling me a child.”, she complains.

“I believe he's calling all of us children. Figure of speech.”, he defends Jon.

“Your Grace, everyone you know will die before winter's over if we don't defeat the enemy to the north.”, Jon uses other words.

“As far as I can see, you are the enemy to the north.”

“I am not your enemy. The dead are the enemy.”, Jon says seriously.

“The dead? Is that another figure of speech?”, Daenerys asks.

“The Army of the Dead is on the march.”

“The Army of the Dead?”, Tyrion asks in disbelief.

“You don't know me well, my lord, but do you think I'm a liar or a madman?”, Jon asks, after he realizes that Visenya won`t intervene in the conversation.

“No, I don't think you're either of those things.”, answers Tyrion.

“The Army of the Dead is real. The white walkers are real. The Night King is real. I've seen them. If they get past the Wall and we're squabbling amongst ourselves ... we're finished.”, Jon ends exhausted, after he makes a step, whereupon the Dothraki comes closer to protect their Khaleesi. He thought it would be easier to convince the queen, but she was so different from Visenya. And yet they were the same. Stubborn, sturdy, cunning.

“I was born at Dragonstone, not that I can remember it. We fled before Robert's assassins could find us. Robert was your father's best friend, no? I wonder if your father knew his best friend sent assassins to murder a baby girl in her crib. Not that it matters now, of course.”, she begins, stands up and goes to Jon while she is speaking. “I spent my life in foreign lands. So many men have tried to kill me, I don't remember all their names. I have been sold like a broodmare. I've been chained and betrayed, raped and defiled. Do you know what kept me standing through all those years in exile? Faith. Not in any gods, not in myths and legends. In myself. In Daenerys Targaryen.”, she says and makes a short break after she continuous. “The world hadn't seen a dragon in centuries until my children were born. The Dothraki hadn't crossed the sea, any sea. They did for me. I was born to rule the Seven Kingdoms, and I will.”, Daenerys makes a speech and Visa nods approvingly. Now Daenerys stands in front of Jon. Visenya can almost feel the tension between her brother and her aunt.

“You'll be ruling over a graveyard if we don't defeat the Night King.”, says Jon and looks intensely in her beautiful emerald eyes.

“The war against my sister has already begun. You can't expect us to halt hostilities and join you in fighting whatever you saw beyond the Wall.”, says Tyrion and comes closer.

“You don't believe him. I understand that. It sounds like nonsense. But if destiny has brought Daenerys Targaryen back to our shores, it has also made Jon Snow King in the North. You were the first to bring Dothraki to Westeros? He is the first to make allies of wildlings and Northmen. He was named Lord Commander of the Night's Watch. He was named King in the North. Not because of his birthright. He has no birthright. He's a damn bastard. All those hard sons of bitches chose him as their leader because they believe in him. All those things you don't believe in, he faced those things. He fought those things for the good of his people. He risked his life for his people. He took a knife in the heart for his people. He gave his own...”, Davos says passionately, but Jon stops him, before he could go on, whereupon Daenerys and Tyrion exchange a look. “If we don't put aside our enmities and band together, we will die. And then it doesn't matter whose skeleton sits on the Iron Throne.”, Ser Davos makes a speech, but Daenerys holds Jon glaze.

“If it doesn't matter, then you might as well kneel. Swear your allegiance to Queen Daenerys, help her to defeat my sister, and together, our armies will protect the North.”, Tyrion urges Jon, looking bitterly at his feet. He's losing patience, notes Visenya.

“There's no time for that. There's no time for any of this! While we stand here, debating ...”, Jon says loudly.

“It takes no time to bend the knee. Pledge your sword to her cause.”, Tyrion interrupts him.

“And why would I do that? I mean no offense, Your Grace, but I don't know you. As far as I can tell, your claim to the throne rests entirely on your father's name, and my own father fought to overthrow the Mad King. The lords of the North placed their trust in me to lead them, and I will continue to do so as well as I can.”, says Jon fiercely. His patience has come to an end and for the first time the dragon appears in him.

“That's fair. It's also fair to point out that I'm the rightful Queen of the Seven Kingdoms. By declaring yourself king of the northernmost kingdom, you are in open rebellion.”, Daenerys replies dangerously calm. She runs out of patience too and the tension between her and Jon is almost unbearable.

Suddenly Varys appears in the throne room, followed by Melisandre, and whispers in Daenerys ear.

“Your Grace, please dismiss your guests. I have grave news.”

“You must forgive my manners. You'll both be tired after your long journey. We'll have baths drawn for you and supper sent to your rooms.”, she tells her visitors. Then she turns to one of the Dothraki warriors and tells him something in Dothraki.

“Am I your prisoner?”, Jon asks, whereupon the queen stops and turns to him.

“Not yet.”, Daenerys answers.

"Then why did you order your soldiers to be careful that we don't leave this island without your permission? It sounds to me as if we were prisoners. Is that the way you treat your guests?", Visenya makes a comment, whereupon Daenerys looks at her, startled and surprised.

"Who are you again?", she asks rudely, to hide her uncertainty.

"This is Lady Visa. Queen beyond the wall. She is King Snow's ally and the greenseer I told you about." replies Melisandre.

“We don`t have time for this now.”, says Varys.

"If you will excuse me. I have to speak to Lady Melisandre. I assume I can move freely in the castle. Thank you.", Visenya says provocative without waiting for an answer and leaves the throne room together with Melisandre.

Jon and Davos bow slightly, before they follow Visenya. Daenerys remains shocked, baffled, and back with a bunch of questions. Seven hells. Who is this woman?

Chapter Text

“I came down here to brood over my failure to predict the Greyjoy attack. You're making it difficult. You look a lot better brooding than I do. You make me feel like I'm
failing at brooding over failing.”

“I'm a prisoner on this island.”, Jon blames Tyrion, even if that’s not true. Visenya can call her dragons every time, but he needs Daenerys as ally not as enemy. That would cause to much problems, which he definitely can't use now.

“I wouldn't say you're a prisoner on this island. You're free to walk the castle, the beaches, to go wherever you want.”, Tyrion tries to ease the situation, but Jon just rolls his eyes.

“Except to my ship. You took my ship.”

“I wouldn't say we took your ship.”, he tries again.

Jon snorts in a bad mood. His temperament runs away with him more and more often. Ever since Melisandre brought him back, he's had to resist the urge to go for everyone's throat. That's probably the dragon in him. Easily irritated and almost uncontrollable.

“I'm not playing word games with you. The dead are coming for us all.”

“Why don't you figure out what to do about my missing fleet and murdered allies, and I'll figure out what to do about your walking dead men.”

“It's hard for me to fathom. It really is. If someone told me about the white walkers and the Night King ... You probably don't believe me.”, Jon admits, having to admit to himself how crazy he must have sounded to Daenerys.

Why didn't Visenya say anything? A sudden anger towards his sister seizes him, but it soon passes. Visenya will know what she's doing.

“I do, actually.”

“You didn't before. "Grumkins and snarks," you called them. Do you remember? You said it was all nonsense.”

“It was nonsense. Everybody knew it. But then Mormont saw them and you saw them. And I trust the eyes of an honest man more than I trust what everybody knows.”, Tyrion wants to make peace with Jon.

He recognized his lacking nerves for this debate. The Queens Hand wants this alliance to work, so he has to do something, before Jon and Daenerys starts a war against each other.

“How do I convince people who don't know me that an enemy they don't believe in is coming to kill them all?”, Jon asks the dwarf desperated.

“Good question.”

“I know it's a good question. I'm looking for an answer.”, Jon replies frustrated.

“People's minds aren't made for problems that large. White walkers, the Night King, Army of the Dead ... it's almost a relief to confront a comfortable, familiar monster like my sister.”.”, Tyrion wants to explain.

“I need to help prepare my people for what's coming. I can't help them from here. I'd like to leave.”

“It seems unlikely that you became King in the North by giving up that easily.”, Tyrion mocks Jon.

“Everyone told me to learn from my father's mistakes. Don't go south. Don't answer a summons from the Mad King's daughter, a foreign invader. And here I am, a Northern fool.”, Jon says, even if he knows that he isn’t one.

“Children are not their fathers, luckily for all of us. And sometimes there's more to foreign invaders and Northern fools than meets the eye. Daenerys could have sailed for Westeros long ago, but she didn't. Instead, she stayed where she was and saved many people
from horrible fates, some of whom are on this island with us right now. While you're our guest here, you might consider asking them what they think of the Mad King's daughter. She protects people from monsters, just as you do. It's why she came here. And she's not about to head north to fight an enemy she's never seen on the word of a man she doesn't know. After a single meeting, it's not a reasonable thing to ask.”, Tyrion says, whereupon Jon nods and walks away, but then he stops, when Tyrion continuous.

“So, do you have anything reasonable to ask?”

“What do you mean?”, Jon asks confused.

“Maybe you are a Northern fool. I'm asking if there's something I can do to help you.”, Tyrion offers.

.

“Dragonglass?”, Daenerys asks and raises her eyebrow in confusion. Jon Snow seems to be a man full of surprises.

“Yes. Volcanic glass, obsidian. He says you have a tremendous amount of it here.”, Tyrion explains.

“Why are we talking about glass? We just lost two of our allies.”, Daenerys replies angrily.

“Which is why I was speaking to Jon Snow, a potential ally.”

“And what does the King in the North want with dragonglass?”, Daenerys asks sarky.

“Apparently, it can be turned into weapons that kill white walkers and their foot soldiers. Or stop them. Destroy them. Unsure about the nomenclature.”

“And what do you think about this Army of the Dead and white walkers and Night Kings?”, Daenerys asks with genuine interest.

“I'd very much like to believe that Jon Snow is wrong. But a wise man once said that you should never believe a thing simply because you want to believe it.”

“Which wise man said this?”

“I don't remember.”

“Are you trying to present your own statements as ancient wisdom?”

“I would never do that. To you. The reason I believe Jon Snow is because he's here. All of his advisors would have told him not to come. I would have told him not to come. And he's here anyway. You don't have to believe him. Let him mine the dragonglass. If he's wrong, it's worthless. You didn't even know it was here. It's nothing to you. Give him something by giving him nothing. Take a step toward a more productive relationship with a possible ally. Keep him occupied while we focus on the task at hand ... Casterly Rock.”, Tyrion chances the topic.

“What was that Ser Davos said about taking a knife in the heart for his people? Did you notice that?”?”, Daenerys asks Tyrion, lost in thought.

“You must allow them their flights of fancy. It's dreary in the North.”, Tyrion answers, but Daenerys knows that there is more behind this figure of speech. She is sure about that.

.

“Amazing thing to see.”, Jon says and goes to Daenerys, who watches her dragons.

“I named them for my brothers, Viserys and Rhaegar. They're both gone now. You lost two brothers as well.” Jon doesn`t answer. All his brothers are still alive, but no one knows that. “People thought dragons were gone forever, but here they are. Perhaps we should all be examining what we think we know.”

“You've been talking to Tyrion.”, Jon realizes and watches the dragons.

“He is my Hand.”.”, Daenerys reminds him.

“He enjoys talking.”.”, Jon answers slightly annoyed.

“We all enjoy what we're good at.”

“I don't.”

“You know I'm not going to let Cersei stay on the Iron Throne.”, she says and turns to Jon.

“I never expected that you would.”, he answers and turns to her.

“And I haven't changed my mind about which kingdoms belong to that throne.”

“I haven't either.”, Jon says stubborn.

“I will allow you to mine the dragonglass and forge weapons from it. Any resources or men you need, I will provide for you.”, Daenerys offers, whereupon Jon looks at her.

“Thank you.”, Jon thanks her surprised. “So, you believe me, then, about the Night King and the Army of the Dead?”

“You'd better get to work, Jon Snow.”, Daenerys answers, whereupon Jon nods and goes away.

As she turns to one of the cliffs, she sees Lady Visa standing. She decides to go to her. She wants to get to know this woman better because she reminds her a little of herself.

.

Daenerys approaches Visenya, who is staring out at the rough sea, lost in thought.

"Sorry for my behavior earlier. Sometimes my temper goes through with me.”, says Visenya, her gaze still fixed on the horizon.

"We all know that.", replies Daenerys, stands next to Visa and looks at the sea. “The red priestess said you are a greenseer. What can I understand by that?"

“I have visions and can see through the eyes of many animals. I see things from the past, present and sometimes from the future. I can't control what is shown to me.”, explains Visa and turns to her aunt. "I'm sorry for the loss of your allies in Westeros."

“What do you mean?” Daenerys asks, confused.

“You should have taken Olenna Tyrell's advice. Tyrion Lannister underestimated his sister. He always will. That cost you the Iron Islands, Dorne and Highgarden.", says Visa, whereupon Daenerys facial features slip away. “Cersei foresaw Tyrion's moves and sent her troops to Highgarden. Olenna is dead and your Unsullied are surrounded by Euron Greyjoy's fleet. "

"Did you see that?"?", Daenerys asks her, still processing what she just told her.

“Aye and much more. Winter is coming. Cersei is your smallest problem."

"Don't say that you believe in the army of the dead too.", says Daenerys, rolling her eyes.

Visenya then pulls down the sleeve of her coat, which is exposed on her shoulder. A scar that runs from the base of the neck, over the collarbone, to the front of her shoulder is visible on the pale skin of the young woman.

“When I was twelve or thirteen, my best friend and I got the idea to ride north until we find the eternal land of ice that Septa Lominara used to tell us about. We found it. Unfortunately. You can imagine what happens when a two-meter-tall ice giant attacks a girl with a sharp Ice speerspear.”, Visenya says bitterly and puts her coat back on. “Fortunately, I was taught sword fighting at a very early age. I killed him with my sword, which is made of Valyrian steal. We were lucky that it was a white walker and not the Night King."

“Septa Lominara? I thought you were a wildling?”, Daenerys asks confused.

“You shouldn't call them wildlings. They are the Free Folk.”, Visenya corrects them.

"I do not quite understand. Are you not one of them?"?", the queen asks visible confused.

“Believe it or not. I was born in Dorne and grew up on this side of the wall in a forgotten castle. Hidden."

“Hiding from who?”, asks Daenerys in surprise, eyeing the young woman intently.

"Hidden from the eyes of the people who would have killed me if they had known who I am.", Visenya says cautiously, because she wasn't sure whether she should tell Daenerys the truth. The decision is made for her by Cedric, who stops next to her before Daenerys can inquire more precisely.

"My Queen. Your Grace.“, Cedric greets the two women and then turns to Visenya, who is a few steps away from Daenerys. “A letter from Castle Wolfeshowl. It's from Morana. Your uncle wants to travel to Winterfell with his family."

"What! Lyanna is too young for such a journey and besides, they are safe on the castle Wolfeshowl. We don't need Cersei's army in the north if they find out that Ed ... he's still alive. We have bigger problems."

“Castle Wolfeshowl is too close to the wall. Many are afraid that they will be his first victims.”

"The Night King will enter the wall in Eastwatch by the sea."

"They are scared. You're not here. Your Dra ... children are not there to protect them and the wolves have retired to the woods. Your best warriors are in Winterfell."

“What do you mean, they are not at the castle! I sent them there.", says Visenya horrified and sits down on a stone before her eyes slide into her eye sockets and turn white.

Daenerys eyes widen in surprise and shock when she sees the white, lifeless eyes.

"What happens with her?", Daenerys asks, her voice sounding more concerned than she intended.

“She just warged. Probably into a raven to see what's wrong with her children. Do not worry. She does that often.“, Cedric Daenerys reassures, but still does not take his eyes off Visenya.

Daenerys sees his gaze. She knows that look. It's the same with Ser Jorah looking at her. This man loves this woman. A little twinge of jealousy mixed with longing spreads across her chest. Will anyone ever look at her like this man at Visa? She takes a closer look at him with interest. He looks neither like one of Jon's knights nor a wildling. The man is wearing expensive-looking armor and his outward appearance is well-groomed. He doesn't look like a northerner either. That's what Ser Barristan said to her after he happened to meet him. Her thoughts are interrupted when Visenya's eyes return to their normal shape and she sways, panting. Cedric is immediately at her side and supports her.

"What did you see?", asks Cedric gently, caressing her hands soothingly.

"Ice. Infinite ice. They are in the eternal land of ice. They are looking for the Night King. They want revenge for Lyra's murder."

"Why now? Lyra has been dead for more than two years."

"I ... I don't know. But I saw through Meraxo's eyes. Vhagario's eyes. They were white. Someone is warged into him. They are not there voluntarily.”, says Visa in panic.

Daenerys eyes widen in shock. Meraxo and Vhagario. Meraxes and Vhagar. Does she get offended or does Visa speak of dragons?

"I need Hope.", Visenya mumbles and closes her eyes. She tries desperately to get through to her dragon, but Hope blocks her. It feels like their connection has been severed. Extinguished. "She's blocking me.", she says in a panic.

"Visa.", Cedric tries to calm his queen down when she breathes quickly and is about to have a panic attack. "Visenya.", he says more urgently.

Right now, he doesn't care at all that Daenerys gasps in breath at Visa's real name. Daenerys feels like someone slapped her. Visa… Visenya is a Targaryen. She is not the last of her family. She is not alone. Daenerys has questions. Many questions. Who are her parents? Does she have dragons like her? Where has she been all these years? Why did she never contact her? Does Jon know who she is?

“I can't let her die. I can't lose another dragon, Cedric.", Visenya whines and clings to her friend.

"Meraxo, Vhagario and Hope are not your only dragons.", says Cedric, whereupon Visenya looks at him in surprise.

“I haven't seen her since we landed in Kingslanding. She could be anywhere in the world. She is also a free dragon. Wild, unpredictable and dangerous.”, Visenya replies uncertainly.

"She's still your child.", replies Cedric urgently. “Otherwise, why would she have kept checking up on you? Even if she didn't grow up with you like Meraxo, Vhagario and Lyra, you still have a connection with her. You fed and cared for her until she could fly on her own. If you need her help, she will come. I'm sure of it."

Confused, Daenerys looks back and forth between the couple, who are no longer aware that Daenerys is still standing next to them and hearing everything. Her head is spinning and her thoughts are circling that she almost becomes dizzy. Daenerys doesn't know if she can trust Visenya, but she needs her help right now.

"Drogon was gone for a long time too, but when I needed his help, he came to save me.”, Daenerys interferes, even if she has a lot to deal with. "You'll never know if you don't try."

Visenya looks at Daenerys in surprise before she closes her eyes and searches the wide world for the connection to her greatest dragon. She stretches out her mental feelers and roams all of Westeros and Essos before venturing further into the unknown world. When she is about to give up, she feels a weak, barely noticeable signal. It's faint, like silk and frozen, but it's there.

'I need your help, Baleria.'

"I don't know if she heard me." Visenya sighs exhausted after she has lost the connection. Only now she does notice Daenerys, who looks confused and shocked. "I'm sorry you found it out that way. I didn't know how to tell you.", Visenya explains and Cedric moves away inconspicuously. The conversation is not intended for his ears.

"Are you a Targaryen?"

"Yes, I am the daughter of Lyanna Stark and your brother, Rheagar Targaryen."

"I'm sorry.", Daenerys replies, referring to the myth that her brother kidnapped and raped Lyanna.

“There are so many things you don't know yet, Daenerys. I'll tell you sooner or later. But for now. Just so you know. No matter what happens. I'm here for you. You are no longer alone.", Visenya says sincerely and gives Daenerys a warm smile.

Daenerys knows she has to be careful who she trusts, but with Visenya she feels she can trust her completely. They both grew up in exile. They both never met their parents and they were of the same blood. They both know what it is like to be a woman in this world where men think they are worth more than women. And they both have dragons. Apparently.

"Thank you.", Daenerys breathes after jumping over her shadow and hugging her niece.

They separate when Drogon, Viserion and Rhaegal land on the cliff on which the two women are standing. Drogon approaches Visenya tense and sniffs at her. When he recognizes her, he relaxes and puts on a guilty look.

"Hey, big guy. I hope you take good care of Hope.", Visenya greets him in Valyrian and caresses his nose.

Visenya giggles at Daenery's questioning look.

"Your son turned Hope's head. She is just around here on their breeding island.”, explains Visenya and shows Daenerys the approximate direction. "Like back then in Essos, I wanted Hope to come with me again, but Drogon attacked Meraxo when we landed on the island."

"Drogon has a mate?", asks Daenerys surprised and a little bit shocked when she notices something. "Wait, back in Essos?"

“Yes, I was in Essos a while ago when you were ruling Mereen. I'm really surprised that Grey Worm didn't recognize me. The sons of the Harpy almost killed Ser Barristan Selmy and Grey Worm."

"That was you, back then?"

"Aye. It was actually predetermined that Ser Barristan would die in this fight, but how many times before have I intervened and thus changed the future. "

"Why didn't you reveal yourself?"

“Because the time had not yet come. Every time I change the way things are should happen, terrible things happen. My dragon Lyra and many other people have to pay for it with their lives. A life for a life."

“I can't imagine how difficult it must have been for you. Thanks for saving Barristan. For a long time, I thought that he was the only connection to my family."

"I know what you mean. A Targaryen alone in the world is a terrible thing.”, Visenya quotes Aemon. "That's what Aemon said to me shortly before he died."

"Aemon?"

“Your great-uncle, who refused the crown and became Maester of the Night`s Watch. He died of old age a few moons ago."

"I wish I had known him."

“He wanted that too. He often asked about you and received letters about your actions. Before he died, he said I have to find you. He didn't want you to be alone. His greatest wish was to know that you wereare safe."

“I'm not alone anymore and neither are you. We are the last Targaryen. United and no longer alone. We will bring back what is rightfully ours. With fire and blood.", Daenerys says eagerly.

"I vowed not to wage a war for the Iron Throne, but when we have survived the Long Night and are still alive, I will help you to conquer the throne that you want so much."

"Don't you want it too?", Daenerys asks surprised.

“No, I hate being queen. I was born one and I have people who believe in me and who would die for me, but that's not me. I don't want power. I want freedom. No obligations. No governing.No ruling. No responsibility for so many human lives."

"I've never seen it like this before, but I've fought too long and lost too much to give up my dream."

"I know. I also know that you will get it. You will get the throne that you want so badly."

"Did you see it?"

“No, but I believe that you will make the world a better place. You'll break the wheel and I'll stand behind you. I promise."

"For this I need the north as my ally."

“Jon won't bend the knee. We both lived with free folk for a while. We don't kneel anymore."

“You are a queen too. He's a bastard.”, Daenerys replies in frustration.

"Jon is much more than that," replies Visenya, leaving Daenerys confused as she walks to Cedric, who is waiting for her some distance away.

Chapter Text

“Your Grace, there's still no word from the Unsullied.”, Missandei says worried.

“Soon. He will come back to you.”, Daenerys calms her.

“He'd better.”

“What happened?”

“Many things.”, answers Missandei and smiles.

"Many things?”, asks Daenerys and grins at her best friend.

“Your Grace.”, says Jon from the end of the stairs.

“It's all right.”, Daenerys says in Dothraki to the soldiers, when they want to follow Missandei and her.

Jon leads the two women to the cave where the dragonglass is located. Missandei stops in front of the cave and Danerys follows Jon inside.

“I wanted you to see it before we start hacking it to bits. Well, this is it. All we'll ever need. There is something else. I want to show you, Your Grace. The Children of the Forest made these.”, he explains to her, pointing his torch to the obsidian stone walls.

“When?”, Daenerys asks interested. She feels like a little girl, going on an adventure.

“A very long time ago.”

“They were right here, standing where we're standing. Before there were Targaryens or Starks or Lannisters. Maybe even before there were men.”, she assumes, lost in thoughts. Eager to explore more of thus mystic cave.

“No.”, Jon corrects her and goes deeper in the cave. “They were here together, the Children and the First Men.”

“Doing what? Fighting each other?”, Daenerys suggests.

“They fought together, against their common enemy. Despite their differences, despite their suspicions. Together.”, Jon and stares intensely in her eyes. “We need to do the same if we're going to survive. 'Cause the enemy is real. It's always been real.”

Jon shines the torch on the wall on which the white walkers have been carved.

“And you say you can't defeat them without my armies and my dragons?”

“No, I don't think I can.”

“I will fight for you. I will fight for the North. When you bend the knee.”, she demands stubbornly.

“My people won't accept a southern ruler. Not after everything they've suffered.”

“They will if their king does. They chose you to lead them. They chose you to protect them.”, Daenerys says and with every spoken sentence she comes closer to Jon. “Isn't their survival more important than your pride?”, Daenerys asks, looking deep in his brown eyes.

Jon stares back at her, pinned down by her fervor. It seems so easy to say yes. He's having a hard time remembering what's stopping him. Daenerys is his aunt and he can possibly trust her, but he doesn`t know her good enough. She is not like Visenya. That`s clear, but they are both strong women. While Daenerys seeks for power, Visenya wants freedom. Like he does. He never chose to be king. The fact that he is actually the true heir to the Iron Throne don`t changes a thing. For once in his life, he wants to choose his path himself. Eddard sends him to the wall and the Lords tied him to them by making him their king.

A long moment goes by, then Jon finally finds his voice.

“I'm not a proud man, your grace. I was born a bastard. I was a steward in the Night's Watch... I cut potatoes and emptied chamber pots. This isn't about my pride.”, Jon insists stubbornly.

If Dany is frustrated, she doesn't let it show.

“What is it about?”?”, Daenerys asks, trying to keep her frustration in bridle.

“What happens the day after I kneel for you? What would you ask of me?”

“I would ask you to help me end Cersei's tyranny once and for all.”, she answers honestly.

“I can't do that.”

Now Dany does look frustrated. She has to bring all her self-control together to do something that she will regret later. This Jon Snow manages to take it completely. What is so special about him that he manages to influence her, the queen, in so many possible ways. In the one moment, she wants to strangle him until his handsome face getting blue and in the other moment, she wants to tear his thick coat from his body and claim him as hers.

“Winter is here. The true threat is north, not south. I cannot march my armies away from where they are needed most.”, Jon insists stubbornly, not ready to give up the north.

“You are asking me to march my armies away and leave Cersei unchallenged.”

“I know that.”

“Do you understand how unreasonable that is?”, she asks him, trying to tame her growing anger.

“Do you want to be queen?”, he asks her, totally seriously.

Dany narrows her eyes at him quizzically.

“Be the queen. You don't need a pointy chair for that. You name yourself Protector of the Seven Kingdoms. I'm asking you to protect them.”

“By abandoning them to Cersei?”

“The North is one of those kingdoms. Do what is right for your people, the people you mean to rule. Help me defeat the Night King, prove to us that you deserve the throne, and it will be yours.”, Jon tries again.

Now it's Dany's turn to be pinned down by Jon's fervor. She is silent for a moment.

“There's still the Wall between us and the dead.”

“The Wall is vulnerable. I've climbed it. I've defended it from attacks that almost made it through.”

“Do the dead know how to climb the wall?”, she asks interested.

“I don't know. I've learned it's best not to underestimate them.”

“Those who have fought Cersei tell me it's best not to underestimate her.”

There's a long, heavy silence. They can both tell that they've argued themselves to a stalemate.

“Where does this leave us?”, Jon asks tense. The closeness makes him uneasy.

Dany considers.

“It seems to me that you will continue doing what you think is best. And I will do what I think is best.”

“So, you respect my rule in the North?”, Jon asks hopefully.

“For now, yes.”, she let him win. This time.

Jon takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly.

“Thank you for the dragonglass, your grace.”, he thanks her.

Dany nods. The somber silence stretches on.

“Shall we?”, she asks and Jon nods in agreement.

They walk out of the caves together, side-by-side. When Daenerys leaves the cave behind her advisors approach the cave, she already knows what they want from her.

“What is it?”

“We took Casterly Rock.”

“That's very good to hear. Isn't it?”, Daenerys asks with a raised eyebrow, because she already knows what he's going to say to her.

“You'll want to discuss this amongst yourselves. Perhaps ...”, Jon suggests and wants to leave.

“You will stay. All my allies are gone. They've been taken from me while I've been sitting here on this island.”

“You still have the largest armies.”, Tyrion assures her.

“Who won't be able to eat because Cersei has taken all the food from the Reach.”

“Call Grey Worm and the Unsullied back. We still have enough ships to carry the Dothraki to the mainland. Commit to the blockade of King's Landing. We have a plan. It's still the right plan.”

“The right plan? Your strategy has lost us Dorne, the Iron Islands, and the Reach.”, she hisses furiously at Tyrion.

“If I've underestimated our enemies ...”

“Our enemies? Your family, you mean. Perhaps you don't want to hurt them, after all.”, Daenerys suggests angrily and looks to her dragons, which fly above the sea, near the island.

“Enough with the clever plans.”, she decides and her eye widen, when she sees something in the distance.

Suddenly a black spot appears on the horizon that is getting closer and closer. Daenerys dragons screech in surprise and fly to the coast where their mother is standing.

"That's impossible.", breathes Tyrion when the black point turns out to be a huge dragon flanked by two smaller ones.

Even Drogon looks nervously at the big dragon, which is getting closer and closer. Jon, Ser Davos, Missandei, Tyrion and Daenerys step back from the shore to make way for the three dragons that land elegantly on the beach. The great black dragon spreads its wings and roars so loudly that the five have to resist the urge to shut their ears. Rhaegal and Viserion bow their heads submissively and Meraxo and Vhagario also stay in the background. You can tell immediately who the dominant dragons are. Drogon stares at Baleria stubbornly, but when Baleria growls warning, he lowers his head slightly. He is not entirely submissive, but Baleria leaves it at that.

"I assume this is Balearia.", says Daenerys when she sees Visenya and Cedric approaching.

"Yes, in all her grace.", Visenya confirms, whereupon everyone turns to her.

The wind blows through her curly silver hair and she smirked mischievously when she sees the confused and shocked faces of Tyrion and Varys.

"What are you going to do after you've lost all your allies thanks to Tyrion's lousy plan?", asks Visenya, looking contemptuously at Tyrion. "Cersei and Jamie will die sooner or later anyway. You should consider which side you are on, Lannister.", she says to Tyrion with a cautionary note.

“I have three large dragons. I'm going to fly them to the Red Keep. My enemies are in the Red Keep. What kind of a queen am I if I'm not willing to risk my life to fight them?”

“A smart one.”, Tyrion intervenes.

“What do you think I should do?”, Daenerys asks Jon, whereupon he gives her a surprised look.

“I would never presume to...”

“I'm at war. I'm losing. What do you think I should do?”, she asks him seriously.

“I never thought that dragons would exist again. No one did. The people who follow you know that you made something impossible happen. Maybe that helps them believe that you can make other impossible things happen. Build a world that's different from the shit one they've always known. But if you use them to melt castles and burn cities, you're not different. You're just more of the same.”

"When did you get so wise?", jokes Visenya.

"Really funny, Visenya."

"I guess you have a plan?" Daenerys asks her niece.

“We should pay a visit to the Lannister Army. The gold from Highgarden is already in Kingslanding, but the army that is bringing the rest of the supplies to Kingslanding is still on the way.”, says Visenya, first looking at her dragons and then fixing Tyrion. "Jamie Lannister should know what happens if he attacks and pillages allies of House Targaryen to pay off the Iron Bank debt."

“We should discuss the details behind closed doors. Shall we?", says Daenerys and grins at her niece.

"After you.", says Visenya and turns to her sons. "Stay close."

Then she goes to Baleria, who looks at her intensely.

“Thank you, Baleria. I really appreciate what you did for me today. For your siblings.", Visenya thanks.

Baleria winks at her, turns to Tyrion and Varys, and growls terrifyingly before she takes an elegant leap into the air. Her large wings generate so much wind that Tyrion flies roughly to the ground.

.

"We'll be able to surprise them with the dragons, but they have Scorpions."

"Scorpions?", asks Daenerys confused.

“Giant spears with grooved teeth that they fire with even larger crossbows. A well-aimed shot and our dragons fall from the sky like stones. One of them killed Vhagar back then.”, explains Visenya and Daenerys nods in understanding. "Do we take all dragons?"

"No, just Drogon.", says Visenya, whereupon Daenerys looks confused. “In the mean time I will decimate Euron's fleet. Our dragons need riders. Without them they are an easy target."

"You saw what was going to happen.", Daenerys states and Visenya just nods.

Suddenly there is a knock.

"Come in!", says Daenerys whereupon Ser Barristan Selmy enters the room.

When he sees Visenya, his jaws literally fall down.

"My question as to whether it is true that there is a second Targaryen has probably been settled."

“Ser Barristan Selmy. This is Visenya. "

"I'm happy to see you again.", Visenya greets him.

"You were the woman who saved me.", states the old knight. "I owe you my life."

"It was an honor for me. You served my father for a long time. "

"Your father?"

„Rhaegar.“

"I didn't know he had another daughter."

"Nobody knew that."

"Sorry for the interruption. The Dothraki are ready to cast off.”, Cedric interrupts the conversation.

“You're coming with them?”, Visenya asks in surprise.

"You know me. I don't run away from a fight. Of course, only if you allow me, Your Grace. ", he says to Daenerys.

"If it is your wish and your queen allows you to fight by my side in this battle, I agree.", replies Daenerys with a grin.

“You're not coming with us?”, asks Cedric Visenya, surprised.

"There are a few ships that Meraxo would love to sink."

“You are going to Euron's army alone. It's damn dangerous. His ships have scorpions that can shoot Meraxo from the sky."

“Not when he's wearing his armor. Gendry finished it. Speaking of which. I still have to put them on him. It's time I left if I want to be there tomorrow."

"Take care of yourself, Visa."

"Always, Dayne.", Visenya says goodbye and leaves the room.

"I should prepare myself too.", says Daenerys and also leaves the room.

"Dayne?", asks Ser Barristan Selmy in surprise after he and Cedric are the only ones in the room.

“I'm Ser Arthur Dayne's bastard son. Maester Gaius has legitimized me at the request of my queen, since I am the last of my family.", says Cedric and draws his sword Dawn.

"Dawn. I haven't seen the sword since Arthur died. Where did you get it from?", Selmy asks with awe.

"Eddard Stark gave it to my aunt Ashara and she gave it to Ser Marvin when he brought me to Castle Wolfeshowl as a baby."

"Ser Marvin is alive?"

“Yes, he raised Visenya and me."

"You look a lot like her.", says Barristan wistfully.

"I know that you loved Ashara.", Cedric replies, whereupon the old knight looks at him in surprise. “Eddard Stark told me. Everyone knew. He loved her too. I heard that she was a kind and strong woman. I wish I had met her."

.

While Daenerys and Cedric are fighting in the Battle of the Goldroad, Visenya manages to sink some of the Greyjoy ships. After the battle, the Dothraki gather the remaining warriors.

“I know what Cersei has told you. That I've come to destroy your cities, burn down your homes, murder you and orphan your children. That's Cersei Lannister, not me. I'm not here to murder, and all I want to destroy is the wheel that has rolled over rich and poor, to the benefit of no one but the Cersei Lannisters of the world. I offer you a choice. Bend the knee and join me. Together, we will leave the world a better place than we found it. Or refuse, and die.”, Daenerys offers them, when she sees a man, who must be the lord, who fights for the Lannisters.

“Step forward, my lord. You will not kneel?”, she asks.

“I already have a queen.”

“My sister. She wasn't your queen until recently, though, was she? When she murdered your rightful queen, and destroyed House Tyrell for all time. So, it appears your allegiances
are somewhat flexible.“, Tyrion says.

“There are no easy choices in war. Say what you will about your sister, she was born in Westeros. She's lived here all her life. You, on the other hand, murdered your own father, and chose to support a foreign invader, one with no ties to this land, an army of savages at her back.”, he replies in disgust.

“You will not trade your honor for your life. I respect that.”, Daenerys says coldly.

“Perhaps he could take the black, Your Grace. Whatever else he is, he is a true soldier. He'd be invaluable at the Wall.”, Tyrion offers.

“You cannot send me to the Wall. You are not my queen.”, the old lord hisses hatefully.

“You will have to kill me, too.”, a young man says and steps forward.

“Step back and shut your mouth.”, Tarly commands strictly.

“Who are you?”, Daenerys asks interested.

“A stupid boy.”, Renly wants to cover his son.

“I am Dickon Tarly, son of Randyll Tarly.”, the young man introduces himself.

“You are the future of your house. This war has already wiped one great house from the world. Don't let it happen again. Bend the knee.”, Tyrion almost pleads.

“I will not.”

“Your Grace, nothing scrubs bold notions from a man's head like a few weeks in a dark cell.”, Tyrion wants to convince his queen.

“I meant what I said. I'm not here to put men in chains. If that becomes an option, many will take it. I gave them a choice. They made it.”, Daenerys says coldly.

“Your Grace, if you start beheading entire families ...”, Tyrion begins.

“I'm not beheading anyone.”, she interrupts him, whereupon he opens his eyes in shock.

“You should answer injustice with mercy, your grace.”, Cedric says and looks at Daenerys, before he turns to Dickon.

“Your brother, Samwell Tarly, is currently training to be a Maester. Don't you ever want to see him again and congratulate him for his achievement? When you and your father die today, no one is left as head of the family, because he is then a Maester. Do you want to abandon your mother and sister? You are young and you think you have to prove yourself to the world, but sometimes you have to swallow your pride and do what is asked of you. Or are you just a scared boy who is so traumatized from his second battle that he wants to kill himself? Last chance to bend your knee.”, says Cedric urgently, whereupon Dickon Tarly kneels after some seconds of reconsidering and Renly Tarly breathes out in relief.

Daenerys looks calculated at Cedric. She doesn't like that he has undermined her authority. Tyrion nods approvingly.

"You should be grateful. That will avoid some unpleasant tension in the future.", Cedric whispers to Daenerys, who nods curtly.

He probably just carried out Visenya's orders. The Queen would later talk to her niece about the behavior of her knight towards her.

“Lord Randyll Tarly, I, Daenerys of House Targaryen, first of my name, Breaker of Chains and Mother of Dragons, sentence you to die.”, Daenerys continuous.

“Dracarys.“

Chapter Text

Jon is standing on a cliff when Daenerys returns from the Battle of the Gold Road. After Drogon lands, he runs up to Jon to scare him, but when he doesn't back down, he stops and sniffs the curly black man with interest. Jon takes off his glove like he did with Hope and slowly puts his hand on Drogon's snout. Daenerys eyes widen when she sees that her son lets Jon touch him. Her heart starts beating with excitement. She feels more drawn to Jon with each passing day. There is something mysterious about it, something hidden. He's not like other men and the more time goes by, the less important it becomes to Daenerys whether he bends his knee or not. Surprised by her thoughts, she shakes her head and slides off Drogon's back. Then Drogon repels and flies to his brothers.

“They're beautiful, aren't they?”, Daenerys asks him smiling and watches her children flying around.

“Yes, they are.”, Jon agrees with her and watches the three dragons.

“No matter how big they get, or how terrifying to everyone else, they're my children.”, she tells and looks at Jon, who smiles back at her. Visenya said something similar to him when he first saw his sister's dragons.

“You weren't gone long.”, he changes the topic.

“No.”

“And?”

“And I have fewer enemies today than I did yesterday.”, she answers, whereupon Jon rolls his eyes. “You're not sure how you feel about that.”

“No, I'm not.”, he answers. Jon doesn`t like it, that Visenya and Daenerys uses their dragons to burn thousands of men.

“How many men did your army kill taking Winterfell back from the Boltons?”, Daenerys asks him interested.

“Thousands.”

“We both want to help people. We can only help them from a position of strength. Sometimes strength is terrible.”, she defends her action. Then she remembers that she has a question, which she wants to ask Jon since her first conversation.

“When you first came here, Ser Davos said you took a knife in the heart for your people.”

“Ser Davos gets carried away.”, Jon answers. He isn`t ready to tell her the truth about his scars.

“So, it was a figure of speech.”, Daenerys suspects, when three Dothraki warriors approach them.

“This man says he is your friend, Khaleesi.”, one of them says in Dothraki and Ser Jorah appears behind him.

“He is my friend.”, Daenerys answers smiling in Dothraki, when she sees her oldest friend.

“Your Grace.”, Jorah greets her and comes closer.

“Jon Snow, this is Ser Jorah Mormont, an old friend.”, she introduces the two men.

“I served with your father. He was a great man.”, Jon says to Ser Jorah and he nods.

“You look strong. You found a cure?”, Daenerys asks hopefully.

“I wouldn't be here if I hadn't. I return to your service, my queen. If you'll have me.”, Ser Jorah answers happily.

“It would be my honor.”, Daenerys says smiling and hugs her oldest friend.

Jon sees the look Ser Jorah is looking at Daenerys. He loves her and somehow Jon doesn't like that. A pang of jealousy runs through his chest and he looks broodingly into the distance. He cannot explain this feeling, but he knows one thing: He doesn`t like it.

.

“I thought Bran was dead.”, Jon says stunned, after he reads a letter from Winterfell.

“I'm happy for you.”, Daenerys says, but then she realizes that Jon isn`t happy. “You don't look happy.”

“Bran saw the Night King and his army marching towards Eastwatch. If they make it past the Wall ...”, Jon begins.

“The Wall has kept them out for thousands of years, presumably.”, Varys interrupts him.

“I need to go home.”, Jon says.

“You said you don't have enough men.”, Daenerys insists.

“We'll fight with the men we have. Unless you'll join us?”, Jon asks hopefully, even if he knows that she won`t.

“And give the country to Cersei? As soon as I march away, she marches in.”

“Perhaps not.”, Tyrion thinks loudly and turns to his queen. “Cersei thinks the Army of the Dead is nothing but a story made up by wet nurses to frighten children. What if we prove her wrong?”

“I don't think she'll come see the dead at my invitation.”, Jon jokes.

“So, bring the dead to her.”, suggests Tyrion.

“I thought that was what we were trying to avoid.”, Danerys says stunned.

“We don't have to bring the whole army. Only one soldier.”, Tyrion answers.

“Is that possible?”, Ser Davos asks and turns to Jon.

“The first wight I ever saw was brought into Castle Black from Beyond the Wall.”

“Bring one of these things down to King's Landing, and show her the truth.”, Tyrion insists.

“Anything you bring back will be useless unless Cersei grants us an audience and is somehow convinced not to murder us the moment, we set foot in the capital.”, Varys throws in.

“The only person she listens to is Jaime. He might listen to me.”

“And how would you get into King's Landing?”, asks Daenerys whereupon everyone looks at Ser Davos.

“I can smuggle you in. But if the gold cloaks were to recognize you, I'm warning you, I'm not a fighter.”, he answers.

“Well, it'll all be for nothing if we don't have one of these dead men.”, Daenerys says.

“Fair point. How do you propose to find one?”, Varys asks interested.

“With the queen's permission, I'll go north and take one.”, Ser Jorah volunteer, whereupon Daenerys looks at him shocked. “You asked me to find a cure so I could serve you. Allow me to serve you.”

“The Free Folk will help us, won`t they. They know the real north better than anyone.”, Jon says, after he gets a nod from his sister who stays in the background.

“They won't follow Ser Jorah.”, Ser Davos insists.

“They won't have to.”, Jon answers after a while.

“You can't lead a raid Beyond the Wall. You're not in the Night's Watch anymore, you're King in the North.”, Ser Davos reminds him.

“I'm the only one here who's fought them. I'm the only one here who knows them.”

“I haven't given you permission to leave.”, Daenerys says, because she doesn`t want that Jon risking his life going north.

“With respect, Your Grace, I don't need your permission. I am a king. And I came here knowing that you could have your men behead me or your dragons burn me alive. I put my trust in you, a stranger, because I knew it was the best chance for my people, for all our people. Now I'm asking you to trust in a stranger, 'cause it's our best chance.”, Jon answers her and looks directly into her eyes.

Daenerys and Jon break their intense eye contact when there is a crash from the side of the table. Visneya hit one of the three wooden dragons so hard on the table that the wooden figure shattered and the wood splinters bore into her palm. Her eyes look straight ahead and she doesn't blink.

"Are you all right, Visenya?", asks Daenerys worried.

"Don't you think it's cold here. It's so cold here. Freezing cold. It's so cold. It's so cold.", Visenya stutters to herself, her whole body shaking.

Just as her legs give way, Jon catches her.

"Get Cedric.", orders Jon panicked, whereupon Ser Davos rushes to the door.

Cedric, who has leaned against the opposite wall of the hallway, stands up in shock.

"Visenya, she ...", Davos begins, but Cedric storms past him into the room.

When he sees Jon, who is kneeling on the floor and holding a trembling Visenya to his chest, who keeps stammering "It's so cold here", he drops down next to her on the floor.

"It's so cold here. It's so cold. It's cold. So cold.", Visenya speaks obsessively.

Cedric immediately tears the sleeve of her coat and exposes her shoulder. The scar that the white walker gave her years ago glows ice-blue on her pale skin.

"Fuck, Davos. Bring me a hot iron.”, he shouts in panic and pats Visenya's cheek as she threatens to fall asleep.

“Everyone out of here. Immediately.", Daenerys orders, whereupon Varys and Tyrion leave the room in shock.

Ser Jorah takes off his cloak and covers the trembling young woman while Ser Davos holds his sword in the open flame of one of the braziers.

"Hey, Visenya. Listen to me. You have to stay awake. Okay? Can you do this for me?", Cedric persuades her and tries to make eye contact with her, but it was almost as if she was looking through him.

“I see Lyra. There's Lyra. She is waiting for me. She is so beautiful. She's calling for me.”, Visenya stutters and Cedric exchanges a fearful look with Jon, who is hugging his sister tightly.

“Listen to me, Visenya. Lyra is dead. The Night King killed her two years ago with one of his ice spears when she threw herself protectively in front of Meraxo and you. Do you remember. We buried her on the hill where we always looked at the stars.”, Cedric tells her. It hurts him to have to tell her again that Lyra is dead, but it's the only way to keep her awake.

“But she is right in front of me. She calls for me. I can`t let her wait."

"I think it's hot enough now.", says Ser Davos frantically and hands Cedric his sword.

"You have to hold her.", says Cedric and tries with all his might not to freak out.

Ser Davos and Ser Jorah take her left and right by the arm, while Daenerys holds her legs with trembling lips. Jon props her head and nods to Cedric. Cedric slowly guides the hot iron to the scar and takes a deep breath before pressing it onto the scar. Visenya doesn't even flinch when the hot metal touches her shoulder.

"She is unburned.", Daenerys states and Ser Jorah and Ser Davos want to let go of her, but Cedric stops him.

"You shouldn't hold on to her because of the hot iron, but because of what's coming next.", he says bitterly, whereupon the two men hold the young woman again. Hardly a second too early, because immediately afterwards her body spasms and she lashes out wildly.

„For the watch. For the watch. Burn them all. Power is Power. When you play the game of thrones, you win or you die.“, Visenya stutters and tosses her head wildly. “Promise me, Ned. You have to protect them. Promise me, Ned. Mother! Robb get out. She is gone. Chaos is a letter. Aegon. His name is Aegon Targaryen.”, she continues to talk to herself and Jon winces at the mention of his maiden name, which Daenerys notices and frowns questioningly. „He is my brother. Why you didn`t told me. He needs to know the true. Promise me, Ned. She will be save with me, Ned. I promise. Lyra. I named her after my deceased mother. Now are both gone. Lyra, no. She loved him and she loved her. Rhaegar was not the last dragon. When the people rose in revolt against him, then mad king set their towns and castles aflame. He murdered sons in front of their fathers. He burned men alive with wildfire, and laughed as they screamed. A three headed dragon is our family sigil. Three of us are left. The last dragons. Conquer Westeros like our ancestor Aegon did it, together with his two sisters. I had a dream. I dreamed that I was old. The north remembers. Tell Cersei, I want her to know it was me. Night gathers, and now my watch begins. It shall not end until my death. I am the shield that guards the realms of men. I pledge my life and honor to the Night's Watch, for this night and all the nights to come. For the watch. You sent him off to the wall. Now he is king. Take care of our family, Visenya. You are the only one who knows what`s coming. I brought Ice and Fire together. You are both. Ice and Fire, he said to me. Daenerys is the fire and Jon the ice. Promise me, Ned. You have to protect them. If Robert ever finds out … How could you betray me, Catelyn. I want let you win. You will pay the prize. Promise me, Ned. Her name is Visenya Targaryen. His name is Jon Snow. A Bastard boy who wants to play in war. Your father was an honorable man. Isn't their survival more important than your pride? He chose you to be our queen. I don`t want to be queen. I want to be free. I want to be free. I want to be free.“, says Visenya and her body goes limp while her words grow quieter. „I want to be free.“

Ser Jorah and Ser Davos loosen their grip and Daenerys wipes the tears from her face. She didn't even notice that she was crying. It is dead quiet in the room. In shock, everyone tries to process what has just happened. Cedric caresses Visenya's cheek and brushes a stray strand of hair from her face.

"It's getting worse.", says Cedric and puts the sword on the table.

"What just happened?", asks Jon, still shocked.

“Visenya sees the future. She is not allowed to intervene, but she does it anyway. In doing so, it changes the future. A person is not allowed to have so much power. Every time she rewrites the future, the visions that are no longer valid are erased from her mind. She has had seizures like this before, but the closer the Night King comes, the worse and longer they are. That just went beyond the scope. The red priestess who brought her back warned me that it could be fatal. The seizures used to last for seconds and she never talked. The seizures have gotten worse since she saved Eddard from his execution. She talks confused things and lashes out wildly, but that right now she would have ... ", Cedric explains and leaves the sentence open. He doesn't even want to think about losing her.

“Carry her into a room and let her hand take care of it. I'll go north and bring a goddamn wight to Cersei. Visenya must never try again to change what happened.”, Jon says and hands over the limp body of his sister to Cedric, who picks her up in bridal style.

“I wish she had a choice. She never asked for it. Visenya deserves to be free. Free from the burden of visions. Freed from her duties as queen. Free from the feeling of having to help everyone. She risks her life every day to give others a chance. Unfortunately, very few people appreciate that.”, says Cedric bitterly and leaves the room with Visenya in his arms.

"Are you alright, Jon?", Danerys asks worriedly when she sees his gaze.

There is so much pain, confusion, fear and panic reflected in his gaze that Daenerys would have loved to hug him reassuringly, but that would go too far. She was still a queen.

"I need some fresh air.", Jon says in dismay and leaves the room.

“Did she say earlier that Eddard Stark is still alive?”, Ser Davos asks Daenerys, amazed.

"I don't know any more than you do, Ser Davos.", Daenerys replies and also leaves the room.

Chapter Text

Two landing boats are sitting on the beach surrounded by two groups of men. A large sailboat is anchored in the bay. Ser Jorah places his sword and a case of Dragonglass into the boat. Tyrion walks down the beach and stands next to Jorah. They talk with each other, before the queen comes and goes to Jorah.

“We should be better at saying farewell by now.”, Daenerys says with a sad smile.

“Your Grace, I …"

Daenerys reaches forward and takes Jorah by his hands. Jon, Davos and Gendry, who also volunteer to go behind the wall, exit the cave and walk towards the boats. Jorah bends and kisses Daenerys's hand. He turns and continues readying the boat. Jon stands in front of Daenerys.

“If I don't return at least you won't have to deal with the King in the North anymore.”, he jokes, whereupon Daenerys smiles at him.

“But I've grown used to him.”, she answers grinning.

“I wish you good fortune in the wars to come, Your Grace. And please take care of Visenya. Her people need her.”

“I will. I promise.”

Jon nods thankful, turns and walks to the head of the boat. The men take hold of it.

“Heave!”, he orders, whereupon the men push the boat into the sea. Daenerys and Tyrion remain on the beach watching them go.

Daenerys has never prayed for anything, but now she does. She prays to the gods that Jorah and Jon may return to her alive. During the time he spent here on Dragonstone, Jon has become more important to her than she suspected. Only now that he is leaving her, she realizes that she may have long been liking the man with the raven-black eyes and the unfathomable brown eyes than she would like.

.

Tormund, Jon, Davos, Gendry and Jorah are sitting at a table having a conversation.

“Isn't it your job to talk him out of stupid fucking ideas like this?”, Tormund blames Ser Davos, after they told him what they want to do.

“I've been failing at that job of late.”

“How many queens are there now? Expect Visenya, of course.”, Tormund asks Jon.

“Two.”

“And you need to convince the one with the dragons or the one who fucks her brother?”

“Both.”, Jon says and slightly grins, because of Tormunds comments.

Later in the cells of Castle Black. After a tense conversation between the inmates and the five men, who talked before Tormund hands the cell keys to Jon. Jon opens the door and let the men out.

“Why doesn't Visenya fly us there with her dragons?”, asks Tormund.

„She isn`t meant to be with us on this mission.“, Beric Dondarrio says, before Jon could answer.

.

After Gendry has managed to get to castle black and send a raven to Dragonstone, Daenerys doesn't hesitate a second to help the men in need. To the sorrow of Tyrion. Now, Tyrion and Daenerys stride through a field towards the dragons.

“You can't! The most important person in the world can't fly to the most dangerous place in the world.”, insists Tyrion.

“Who else can?”, Daenerys snaps back.

“No one. They knew the risk when they left. You can't win the throne if you're dead. You can't break the wheel if you're dead.”, Tyrion tries to convince his queen, while Daenerys climbs onto Drogon

“So, what would you have me do?”, Daenerys asks tense.

“Nothing. Sometimes nothing is the hardest thing to do. If you die, we're all lost. Everyone, everything.”

“You told me to do nothing before and I've listened to you. I'm not doing nothing again.”, she decides and mounts Drogon. In the next moment the three dragons take to the sky, while Tyrion watches.

Visenya, who stands at the top of the stairs that lead to the castle, sighs and turns to go to her dragons. She has to help them, even if she knows what is to come.

.

Meanwhile on the frozen lake, where the army of the dead have circled the rest of Jon's troop, Sandor looks out to the undead army. He picks up a stone and hurls it into the crowd. It knocks the jawbone off of one of the soldiers.

“Damn cunt.”, Sandor curses and picks up another rock to throw. This one slides to the feet of the jawless soldier, who takes measure of it.

“Oh, fuck.”

The jawless soldier starts to walk across the lake. The brotherhood rises and draws their weapons. More undead soldiers start to advance, while Beric lights his sword, and Tormund, Jon, Jorah and Sandor stand ready.

“Fuck it!”, Sandor says and strides to meet the undead soldier, and smashes it with his hammer. The battle begins quickly. Jon and Jorah fight as a team, while the others fight independently, Tormund hewing, Beric slashing and burning the undead soldiers. The jawless soldier rises once again and charges Sandor, who swings his war hammer down on the ice. The jawless soldier falls into the icy water exposed, and disappears beneath the ice. All of the undead soldiers pour towards the island.

The captured Wight continues to struggle. Sandor grunts and tossed down his hammer. He draws a dagger and engages is closer battle, with Tormund unleashing beside him. Jon and Jorah continue to battle as a pair. Tormund wrestles a soldier from his back, while Beric sets one ablaze. Jon moves to finish the flaming soldier with his sword. He falls onto the captured Wight, and defends against a pair of soldiers.

The undead army overwhelms a Night's Watchman wielding a staff. He is wrestled to the ground, while Beric dispatches soldiers with his flaming sword. The Brotherhood is losing ground.

“Fall back! Fall back!”, Jon orders.

“Come on!”, Tormund shouts.

The brotherhood tries to form a line, but the soldiers are coming too fast. Tormund wrestles with one soldier, and throws him to the ground. He turns, and is jumped by another. He is quickly overwhelmed by a group of soldiers, his face bloodied. Jorah and Sandor want to help, but have their hands full. Tormund wrestles free from many of the undead, but two more surface from the icy water and grab his legs, pulling him into the lake.

Tormund screams and gags, as his legs are pulled into the water, while other soldiers continue to wrestle with him atop the ice. One gets its blade around Tormund's throat, and pins him down, desperate. Sandor comes to his rescue, and pulls him away from the icy water. They shuffle backwards to the line of the brotherhood.

Jon pulls the captive Wight further back, while Sandor, Tormund, Jorah and Beric hold the line. The soldiers are coming faster and faster. Jon continues to retreat, dragging the Wight, but he is attacked by a soldier that has made it through the line. Jon dispatches him with a stab to the gut. The brotherhood fights, losing a wildling, who falls from the rocks into the hoard below, where he disappears, screaming. He is torn to shreds while Jon watches horrified from above.

Jon, Beric, Jorah Sandor and Tormund are cornered, fighting in a frenzy. Tormund and Jon knock into one another, and exchange a glance of desperation. Time slows for Jon as they prepare to make their last stand. Now I am going to die, again, he thinks.

Suddenly Drogon screeches has he blasts the army before Jon in a ball of fire, with Daenerys riding him. Rhaegal and Viserion also blast the undead, melting the ice and sending the soldiers sinking slowly into the icy depths. Jon, Tormund, Beric, Jorah and Sandor stand exhausted, watching the dragons destroy the army in swaths. Daernerys looks down at Jon, and Drogon lands on the ice. Daenerys invites Jon to climb onto Drogon, but wights set upon them before he can. The battle continues.

Above the frozen lake, a white walker unsheathes an ice spear from his mount, and hands it to the Night King, who strides forward. The brotherhood continues to fight, while trying to climb onto Drogon.

“Jon!”, shouts Jorah.

Only Jon remains on the ground, holding back the undead as they advance. Meanwhile, the Night King approaches Drogon. Sandor gores the Wight on one of Drogon's spikes. Sandor, Beric and Tormund take their seats. Daenerys watches Jon continuing to battle on the ground. The Night King comes closer and readies his spear. He chooses to launch it at the flying Viserion, and it hits its mark, the dragon erupting in flame where the spear has entered. Viserion dives towards the ground, his scream answered by Drogon. Blood pours from Viserion as he crashes into the frozen lake. The ice crumbles, and the dragon's body comes to rest in the icy water while Rhaegal flies overhead. Screeching for his brother. But Viserion doesn´t hear it anymore. With a last gasp, Viserion's head slips back into the water, pulled by the weight of his sinking body.

Sandor, Beric, Tormund and Jorah watch in horror as the dragon sinks. Daenerys heart breaks into pieces and she has to hold back her tears. On the ground, Jon resumes his melee, and locks eyes with the Night King. A white walker retrieves another spear, whereupon Jon eyes widen.

“Go! Go now! Leave!”, he shouts, while he is running back toward Drogon while Daenerys watches. However, he is tackled by some undead, and they disappear into the waters. Daenerys hesitates, hoping Jon will surface, but he continues to struggle and lose breath underwater. The Night King strides forward and readies his spear.

Suddenly two more Dragons appears and spit fire to the army. Meraxo and Vhagario. Visenya rides on Meraxo, who is fully armored. Visenya tries to hold the wights back.

Daenerys gasps in relief at the sight of her niece and signals Drogon to take flight. The dragon launches awkwardly because of his passengers. The Night King takes aim at the encumbered dragon and hurls the spear. Drogon's evasive twist dodges the spear, unseating Jorah, who falls away, but is caught by Sandor. Daenerys looks back on the battlefield below as they fly away. There is no sign of Jon and Daenerys is distraught. Visenya follows them, but then she recognizes that Vhagario doesn`t follow them. She turns to the battlefield again, only to see that her child flies toward the Night King, who hurls another spear. Visenya closes her eyes and when she hears the familiar scream of pain and the cracking of the ice generated by Vhagario impact. She sobs and shakes her head vehemently.

"Not again. Please not again."

She slowly opens her eyes. Her gaze directed forward. Even at this distance she sees the horrified and shocked looks of the others sitting on Drogon. She turns her head just to see the Night King grinning at her. The dead Vhagario right at his feet.

Chapter Text

After they arrived by the wall, Daenerys is standing on the wall in a watch tower together with Jorah, hoping that Jon will somehow come back. She wanted to ask Visenya if she knew if he would return, but she has not seen her niece since they reached the wall. She doesn't even want to imagine what it feels like to lose a second dragon. Meraxo flies along with Drogon and Rhaegal along the wall, mourning. Every now and then sad sounds of the dragons can be heard.

“It's time to go, Your Grace.”, he says after a while.

“A bit longer.”, Daenerys insists, but after some minutes she turns to go, resigned.

Suddenly a horn blares in the distance can be heard.

“Rider approaching!”, a man shouts, whereupon Daenerys and Jorah turn back to look over the edge.

“Rider approaching!”, the man shouts again.

Someone opens the gate. Below, a single exhausted rider approaches, doubled over on his horse. When Daenerys is sure it's Jon, she breathes out in relief. Even if her heart still aches after Viserion's death, she is filled with great relief. Jon is alive. She orders her men to take Jon to her ship.

Inside the ship, Jon is being tended by Davos, who undresses him with help from the crew. Daenerys eyes widen shocked when she sees his ravaged torso. Ser Davos didn`t lie. Jon took a knife in his heart for his people.

.

After some hours Jon wakens, bleary. As the room comes into focus, he sees Daenerys standing and watching.

“I'm sorry. I'm so sorry.”, he says, when his memories of Viserions dead comes back.

Daenerys shakes her head and tries to hold back her tears. Jon takes her hand.

“I wish I could take it back. I wish we'd never gone.”, he says guiltily.

“I don't. If we hadn't gone I wouldn't have seen. You have to see it to know. Now I know. The dragons are my children. They're the only children I'll ever have. Do you understand?”, she asks him serious, whereupon Jon nods.

“We are going to destroy the Night King and his army. And we'll do it together. You have my word.”, Daenerys promises him determined to avenge her son and also Visenya's son.

“Thank you, Dany.”, he says without thinking. Dany just came to his mind.

“Dany?”, she asks surprised and laughs slightly. “Who was the last person who called me that? I'm not sure, was it my brother? Not the company you want to keep.”

“Alright. Not Dany. How about "My Queen"?”, he asks, whereupon Daenerys eyes widen surprised. “I'd bend the knee but ...”, he continuous and points to himself.

“What about those who swore allegiance to you?”, she asks, taken by surprise by his sudden change of mind.

“They'll all come to see you for what you are.”, he replies with a smile and gently strokes her fingers.

“I hope I deserve it.”

“You do.”

Daenerys tries to pull her hand away, but Jon won't let go. They pause, and he relinquished. Both of them are not sure yet what they are feeling, but they cannot deny it. They mean a lot to each other.

“You should get some rest.”, suggests Daenerys to escape the confusing situation that causes butterflies in her stomach.

Jon closes his eyes, exhausted, while Daenerys leaves the room.

A smile appears on Visenyas face as she watches Jon and Daenerys from the doorway. The two were meant for each other. Her fears and worries that Jon might not love Daenerys because of his morals were completely unfounded. Jon loves Daenerys and she loves him. A song of Ice and Fire. After Daenerys leaves, Jon falls asleep.

.

The next morning, after Jon has eaten his breakfast, Visenya comes into his cabin and closes the door.

"Visenya?", asks Jon, confused. "What are you doing here. I thought you were on Dragonstone."

"I was, until I found out that my brother had the stupid idea to go behind the wall with just a few men to support him, to catch a wight and my aunt flies after him to save his ass."

„She lost one of her dragons. He died because she came to save me.“, he desperately admits.

“Vhagario died too. He attacked the Night King. Perhaps to revenge his sister. I couldn`t stop him.”, says Visenya sadly, playing with her fingers to avoid crying again.

“Vhagario! Your dragon?”, asks Jon shocked.

“Aye. He is now with Lyra.”

“I`m so sorry. I should have never went beyond the wall.”

“It had to happen in this way.”, Visenya sighs and wishes once more not to know too much. The seizure a few days ago is still deep in her bones. She knows how close she was to death and she has seen things that she would have want to forget.

“Where is Lyraxa?”, Jon asks worried.

“I don`t know. I`m sorry.”, says Visenya guiltily. "But I think … no, I know that she is fine."

"I hope so," mumbles Jon. "It is strange. I've known the truth for almost two years, but I keep forgetting or, rather, suppressing it. Even though I'm very grateful to you for telling me, I sometimes wish you hadn't. "

"You love her."

“Who?”, asks Jon.

"You know who I mean.", Visenya replies and rolls her eyes with a grin.

"She is my aunt."

"And if so?"

"And if so! What would people think.", he worries.

“Since when have you been worrying about what people think of you. Besides, they don't know who you are.”, replies Visenya. “And while we're at it. When do you tell her? "

"Never."

"How do you imagine that? She saw you petting Drogon. She will wonder why the hell we get along so well and why you are not afraid of dragons. At the latest when she sees Lyraxa, she will know and then it looks like you've lied to her to dispute her throne."

“I don't want the throne. I bent my knee to her. "

"I know, but before you attack her and take her to you bed you should at least tell her that you are her nephew."

"I ... I'm not going to ..." stammered Jon, blushing.

"If you only knew.", murmurs Visenya and has to hold back a grin.

"What does this mean?", Jons asks confused and became redder.

"Nothing. You will see it then.", answers Visenya and grins mysteriously at her brother.

At that moment there is a knock on the door and Daenerys comes in. Surprised, she looks back and forth between Jon and Visenya.

"I can come back later.", says Daenerys and clears her throat.

For some reason, she doesn't like that Jon and Visenya are so close.

“No, it's okay. Jon and I want to talk to you anyway.”, Visenya waves him off.

"Do we?", asks Jon, slightly panicked.

"Aye, sit down with us.", Visenya offers her a place on the other side of Jon's bed, whereupon Daenerys sits down hesitantly.

"What do you want to tell me?", asks Daenerys and is suddenly quite nervous.

She's never seen Visenya so seriously and Jon looks like he's about to get up and run away. The queen has a feeling that the conversation will not be pleasant.

“I want to tell you the truth. About my parents."

“I already know that. You are the daughter of my brother and Lyanna Stark.", Daenerys replies confused. "He kidnapped and raped her."

"This is a lie that has never been corrected to protect my brother and me."

"Your brother?", asks Daenerys in surprise, but Visenya continues undeterred.

“Rhaegar annulled his marriage to Elia Martell so that he could marry Lyanna Stark. They were married in a secret ceremony in Dorne. Robert's rebellion was built on a lie. Your brother didn't kidnap Lyanna or rape her. He loved her and she loved him.", says Visenya and pauses briefly. “After Rhaegar was killed in the Battle of Trident, Lyanna gave birth to twins. A girl and a boy. Robert would have murdered them, if he ever found out, and Lyanna knew it."

“So, the last thing she did as she bled to death on her birthing bed was give the girl to Rhaegars most loyal men by Ned to bring her far away from the eyes of the world and give the boy to her brother. Ned Stark, to raise as his bastard.”, Jon continuous and Daenerys eyes widen surprised. "My name ... my real name is Aegon Targaryen."

Startled, Daenerys jumps up and looks back and forth between the two siblings.

"Is that true, Visenya?" Daenerys asks in a trembling voice.

„Aye. Jon is my brother.“

“If it`s true it makes you the last male heir of House Targaryen. You have a better claim to the Iron Throne. Why do you bent the knee to me?”, Daenerys asks confused.

“Because I don`t want it. I never wanted to rule. I never asked for it.”, Jon clarifies and looks Daenerys intensely in the eye. Visenya was right. Daenerys sees him as a threat.

Suddenly Cedric storms into the cabin.

“Ahm, sorry for interrupting you, but there is a dragon on deck, who scares the people.”

“A dragon on deck?”, asks Daenerys doubtful.

“Yes, he is small and violet.”

“Lyraxa!”, Jon says and tries to get up, but his whole body still hurts. He takes in a sharp breath and falls back on his poster.

“Take it easy. Stay where you are.“, Visenya reassures Jon. "I'll get her before she torches the whole ship.", says Visenya and follows Cedric.

"Jon has a dragon too?", asks Cedric, surprised.

"Aye. When he was resurrected by Melisandre, Lyraxa hatched.”, explains Visenya.

Once on deck, she calls the little dragon over, who sits on her back before going back to her brother's cabin. Once inside, she sees Jon looking longingly at Daenerys. Confusion, fear, insecurity and doubts are reflected on her face.

As soon as Lyraxa sees Jon, she jumps off Visenya's back and pounces on Jon. Daenerys can dodge just in time to avoid being knocked over by the small dragon.

"Hey, little one.", Jon greets his dragon and pats her head after Lyraxa has sniffed at him.

Daenerys froze at the scene that is going on in front of her. It all feels like a dream. She knew from the first time they met that he was different. Particularly. Daenerys always thought she was the last of her family, but now she not only has a niece, but a nephew as well. A nephew she fell in love with. She is so drawn to Jon that it scares her. Since they were in the cave together, she had to resist her urge to kiss him. Now that she knows he's her nephew, her feelings towards him haven't changed. She feels even more drawn to him than before. But then she realizes that she is his aunt. Her relationship may not matter to her, but Jon was raised differently. He will never be able to love her the way she will love him. Inside, she knows he's telling the truth. He doesn't want the throne. She is his queen. Nothing else.

Daenerys is torn from her negative thoughts when something wet and cold touches her fingers. She winces, startled, and looks down at herself. She was so lost in her thoughts that she didn't even notice how Lyraxa flew to her and is now sniffing her fingers. Delighted, Daenerys kneels down next to the little dragon and pats her chin. Lyraxa purrs with relish and nestles Daenerys hand. A slight smile forms on her lips. When she looks up, she notices that she and Jon are alone in the room. A pleasant shiver runs down her spine when she feels Jon's intense gaze on her. So many emotions are reflected in his eyes that she cannot assign them all. She returns his gentle smile almost shyly.

"She likes you.", Jon says and looks at his dragon, which has made itself comfortable on Daenerys lap.

“It's based on reciprocity.”, replies Daenerys and stands up with the little dragon in her arms. “I still remember the time when my dragons were so small. So innocent. Enjoy the time. No sooner were they bigger than they became wilder and unpredictable. When Drogon snapped at me for the first time, I realized that even if they are my children, they remain wild animals.”, says Daenerys and sits down on the edge of Jon's bed. "Shall I call you Aegon, now?", she jokes to ease the tension.

“Seven hells. Please not.”, Jon curses and closes his eyes, whereupon Daenerys giggles.

Maybe it`s not bad after all, that Daenerys knows the truth. It seems she takes it well. The rest of the afternoon they talk about their previous life and get to know each other better. Both consciously avoid the subject of their feelings for one another. This is a topic for another day.

Chapter Text

At the same time in Winterfell. Arya made her way to Winterfell alone. She really wanted to see Jon again, but when she got there, Sansa told her that Jon was at Daenerys with Visenya.

„Now he is in Kingslanding to discusses a truce with Cersei.“, Sansa says, puckering her lips contemptuously.

“And you are in charge in Winterfell. Must be a wonderful feeling. Once in your life you are a queen.”, Arya says and rolls her eyes.

“Is our family on their way here?”, asks Sansa hopefully.

“Aye. They will be here in less than a moon I guess.”

“Then Robb will be king again and Jon the bastard he has always been.”, Sansa replies, relieved.

"How dare you speak of Jon like that. The people chose him. He's the king.", Arya hisses angrily.

"He has no claim to the throne while Father, Robb, Bran and Rickon are still alive.", Sansa replies arrogantly.

"Father abandoned the north and put his family above everything. The lords will no longer follow him and Robb doesn't want the crown. Bran is the three-eyed-raven and Rickon is far too young to lead us."

"You just don't get it, Arya. You adore Visenya and Jon as if they were heroes from your fairy tale books. They are not. Visenya has destroyed our family.", Sansa admonishes her sister loudly.

"She saved our family.", Arya contradicts her sister sharply.

Suddenly Sansa's eyes fall on Littlefinger, who is standing in the courtyard and looking at the two sisters.

"I would never have thought that you would be so stupid and trust Littlefinger after he betrayed father, murdered our aunt and kept our mother as prisoner in the Eyrie.”, Arya growls furiously.

"She is an honored guest. No prisoner.", Sansa defends herself defiantly.

"Mother is not allowed to leave the castle. She is locked in a room and is guarded. Doesn't that sound like imprisonment to you?"

"Where do you get that from?", Sansa wonders.

"She sent a letter to father with the help of loyal knight."

"I didn`t know that.", Sansa admits in shock.

"Aye, because you were too busy plotting against Jon and Visenya.", Arya hisses and walks away.

.

After the sobering conversation with Cersei, Tyrion went to his sister, in order to be able to persuade her to fight at Daenerys and Jon's side in the great war. Jon is walking around the arena, picking up a small dragon skull bone.

“No one is less happy about this than I am.”, Jon apologizes, after the meeting was a disaster, because of him.

“I know. I respect what you did. Wish you hadn't done it, but I respect it.”, Daenerys says and takes the bone from Jon.

“This place was the beginning of the end for our family. Zaldrīzes buzdari iksos daor. A dragon is not a slave. They were terrifying. Extraordinary. They filled people with wonder and awe, and we locked them in here. They wasted away. They grew small. And we grew small as well. We weren't extraordinary without them. We were just like everyone else.”, she says bitter and hands the bone back to Jon.

“You're not like everyone else. And our family hasn't seen its end. There`re still you, Visenya and me.”

“I can't have children.”, confesses Danerys Jon.

“Who told you that?”, asks Jon surprised.

“The witch who murdered my husband.”

“Has it occurred to you she might not have been a reliable source of information?”, asks Jon and something in his tone makes her insides tingle.

As if he had hinted at something. Something he doesn't want to say out loud.

“You were right from the beginning. If I had trusted you and your sister, everything would be different.”, Daenerys admits.

“So, what now?”

“I can't forget what I saw north of the Wall. And I can't pretend that Cersei won't take back half the country the moment I march north.”

“It appears Tyrion's assessment was correct. We're fucked.”, Jon jokes, whereupon Daenerys laughs.

When they hear footsteps, they walk back to the others. Tyrion walks in alone. He is followed by Cersei, her bodyguard, Qyburn, Jaimie and the Lannister guards. The northern delegation watches as they approach the dais.

“My armies will not stand down. I will not pull them back to the capital. I will march them north to fight alongside you in the Great War. The darkness is coming for us all. We'll face it together. And when the Great War is over, perhaps you'll remember I chose to help with no promises or assurances from any of you. I expect not. Call our banners. All of them.”, Cersei says, but Danerys knows that she is lying.

Visenya have told her that Cerseis words means nothing, but she leaves it at that. Cersei will lose anyway. Neither the Golden Company nor the rest of the Lannister soldiers are up to her army and her families six dragons.

.

Bran, who was beyond the wall for years and recently came home, sits by the fire. There is a knocking on the door.

“Come in.”, Bran says, whereupon Sam enters the room.

“Samwell Tarly.”, Bran greets Sam.

“I wasn't sure if you'd remember me.”, Sam admits.

“I remember everything.”, he replies and Sam closes the door.

“You helped us get beyond the Wall. You're a good man.”

“Oh, well, thank you, but, um, I'm not sure that I am. What happened to you beyond the Wall?”

“I became the Three-Eyed Raven.”, Bran answers emotionless.

“Oh! I don't know what that means.”, Sam replies embarrassed.

“I can see things that happened in the past. I can see things happening now all over the world. Why did you come to Winterfell?”

“Um, Jon's the one to lead the fight against the dead. I know he is. But he can't do it alone, so I've come here to help him.”

“He's on his way back to Winterfell with Daenerys Targaryen.”

“You, you saw this in a vision?”, Sam asks and Bran holds up a scroll delivered by a raven.

“Oh.”

“He needs to know the truth.”

“The truth about what?”, Sam asks confused.

“About himself. No one knows. No one but my father and me. Jon isn't really my father's son. He's the son of Rhaegar Targaryen and my aunt, Lyanna Stark. He was born in a tower in Dorne. His last name isn’t really Snow. It’s Sand and he has a sister. Visenya.”

“It's not.”, Sam corrects him, after he remembers something.

“Dornish bastards are named Sand.”, Bran replies determined.

“At the Citadel, I transcribed a High Septon's diary. He annulled Rhaegar's marriage to Elia. He wed Rhaegar and Lyanna in a secret ceremony.”

“Are you certain?”, Bran asks surprised.

“It's what the High Septon wrote in his private diary. I don't know why he'd lie. Is this something you can see?”, the chubby man asks the men in the wheelchair, whereupon Bran checks Sam`s expression.

Bran observes the wedding of Rhaegar and Lyanna.

“Father, Smith, Warrior, Mother, Maiden, Crone, Stranger. I am hers and she is mine from this day until the end of my days.”, Rhaegar says.

“Father, Smith, Warrior, Mother, Maiden, Crone, Stranger. I am his and he is mine from this day until the end of my days.”, Lyanna says at the same time.

“Robert's Rebellion was built on a lie. Rhaegar didn't kidnap my aunt, or rape her.”, Bran says. “He loved her. And she loved him. And Jon - Jon's real name.”

“His name is Aegon Targaryen. You have to protect him. Promise me, Ned.”, Lyanna says in Brans vision.

“He's never been a bastard … he’s the heir to the Iron Throne.”, Bran continuous. “He needs to know. We need to tell him.”, he says to Sam.

Chapter Text

Meanwhile in a boat at the narrow sea, Jon knocks on Daenerys door after some hesitation. She opens the door and looks surprised, when she sees Jon, standing in front of her.

Without saying anything, he stares at her longingly. After some time has passed, it gives way for him to enter.

“What can I do for you?”, Danerys asks tense, when she feels the electrical tension between them.

In response, Jon walks up to her and presses his lips passionately against hers. Daenerys stiffened in surprise and her eyes widen. Jon feels her hesitation and breaks the kiss.

"Jon ... you don't have to. I ... I'm your aunt."

“I don't care if you are my aunt. I already knew who you are when I first saw you, but I don't care. I want you.”, Jon gasps, whereupon Daenerys looks at him in surprise, before she wraps her hands around his neck and kisses him passionately.

Tyrion stands outside the door and looks worried. Worried about the things which will come next.

“What are you doing here?”, Visenya asks suspicious, whereupon the dwarf winced and turned to the young woman.

“Nothing, I just …”

“You should go to your cabin, Tyrion. It`s the middle of the night.”, she interrupts him and gives him a warning glaze.

Tyrion bows and goes away. Visenya throws one last satisfied look at the cabin door of Daenerys cabin, where her brother disappeared a few minutes ago. Then she goes to hers.

She opens the door and sees that Cedric is already lying in her bed and sleeping. Grinning, she shakes her head and covers him up completely so that he won`t be freezing during the night. Then she undresses and lies down with him. As if sensing her presence, he reaches for her and pulls her to his chest. Visenya happily closes her eyes in the arms of her lover and best friend, but opens it again, when groans and growls can be heard from the cabin, which is right next to hers. Sighing, she closes her eyes again and tries to banish the image of her brother and aunt fucking in the next room from her brain.

"They get straight to the point.", she mumbles and covers her ears with the large duvet.

.

The next day, the three Targaryen and Cedric break their fast together in the conference room. Daenerys and Jon can't keep their eyes off each other and hold hands under the table. Visenya tiredly shoves a fruit into her mouth and yawns.

"Slept badly?", asks Cedric, amused.

"The walls on a ship are very thin and our neighbors weren't quiet yesterday.", Visenya replies dryly and looks at Daenerys and Jon, who are caught looking at the table.

"The only neighbors we have are ... oh.", says Cedric and looks at Jon and Daenerys. An embarrassing silence spreads.

"Uhm … aye. How long do we need to get to Winterfell?”, Cedric changes the subject.

"I guess at least a week.", replies Jon, thankfull for the changed topic.

"So long? I'm not used to traveling by ship anymore.”, Visenya sighs and leans back exhausted.

“Enough time to calm down a bit.”, says Cedric and takes a bite of his bread.

"Aye. The meeting with Cersei was really ... power-wrenching.", Jon agrees and brings a fruit to his mouth.

"Fuck.", Visenya curses and jumps from her seat. She takes her coat and puts it on.

"Wait! What are you doing?", Cedric asks.

“I completely forgot that Euron is on the way to pick up the Golden Company for Cersei. He should be in the middle of the sea right now. Vulnerable."

"Are you going to do what I think you are going to do?", asks Cedric worried, although he already knows the answer.

“His ships are not yet equipped with the Scorpions. Meraxo can easily sink a couple of them. I also have to free Catelyn from the Eyrie and tell Arya that Petyr Baelish has to die.", Visenya explains hectically and puts on her sword.

“Why do you want to free Catelyn? She hates you.", Jon says unhappy.

“Aye, but she's still Ned's wife. He wants everyone to return to Winterfell together."

"Wait! When Ned returns to Winterfell, I will no longer be king."

“You were there for the north when they needed you the most, while Ned was hiding in my castle to protect his family. The lords will no longer follow him after he has abandoned them and Robb no longer wants to be king."

"Could it be that you Starks have a noticeably great aversion to being a king and queen?", Daenerys jokes, amused.

"You are right. It seems.", replies Visenya and suddenly pauses.

"What's going on?", asks Cedric worried when Visenya grabs her chest and her eyes turns white for a few minutes.

"That damn bastard.", Visenya growls angrily and clenches her hands into fists.

"What happened? What did you see?"

“We should hurry. The Night King used our dragons to break down the wall."

"Viserion.", Daenerys breathes in shock and has to hold back her tears.

"He will die for what he did to Lyra, Viserion and Vhagario.", Visenya says, her voice trembling with anger. “And if I have to kill him myself.”

“I come with you. Three Dragons can sink more ships that one.”, Daenerys says and stands up, crabbing her coat.

“Someone should ride on Rhaegal to prevent him from getting hit.”, suggests Visenya, whereupon Daenerys nods.

Cedric, Daenerys and Visenya look at Jon, who looks back in confusion.

"Why are you looking at me ... Wait! You want me ...", he stutters and points to himself.

"You are a Targaryen, Jon. Only Targaryen can fly and direct dragons."

“I never rode a dragon before.”, Jon complains uncertain. “I don`t want that anyone finds out, that … maybe another time. Someone has to stay here.”

"Then another time. Two dragons will be enough.", Visenya decides and Daenerys smiles encouragingly at Jon.

"Take care of yourselves.", Jon says goodbye.

"Aye. We'll be back in three days at the latest.", Visenya supposes and then she leaves with Daenerys, leaving the men they love behind.

Jon looks Daenerys longingly afterwards. "I would lie to you if I told you that you will ever get used to letting her go.", says Cedric, looking to the point where Visenya has just stood. "But they will come back. They always do."

"So, you think it's okay that Daenerys and I ... you know.", Jon asks uncertainly, after some time to break the silence.

"Love is a strange thing, Jon. It knows no rules. You shouldn't worry about what others might think of you. Let them talk and think what they want. What matters is that you love her and show it to her as often as you can."

"Thank you.", Jon thanks. "I'm glad she has you."

"That means a lot to me. Sorry for being so mean to you back then.", Cedric apologizes.

"Don't worry. It just showed me how important my sister is to you."

Chapter Text

Meanwhile on the narrow sea, Daenerys and Visenya flies in the direction, where Euron Greyjoy must be. Visenya pulls her coat tighter and hides her freezing fingers in her sleeves when a cold wind blows over her. It's getting colder. Winter is here and with it the Night King and his army. She looks worriedly to Daenerys, who is flying with Drogon next to her. If her are that cold, how cold must it be for Daenerys, who has spent her whole life in the warm Essos. From this distance she sees Daenerys trembling. Maybe it wasn't a good idea to take her aunt with her. In the end she falls from Drogon, but she doesn't have time to think about it anymore. The two dragons hum, which causes the two dragon riders to look ahead. There is a whole fleet in front of them by the water. The sails are black with a golden kraken on them. Euron Greyjoy's fleet.

Daenerys and Visenya straighten up immediately and clasp the prongs on Meraxos and Drogon's backs, ready to fight. Visenya steers Meraxo up into the fog so Euron doesn't see her coming.

Daenerys follows her and seeks eye contact with Visenya, who nods to her. When they are high enough, Meraxo and Drogon put on their wings and plunged into the depths. As soon as they are close enough to the ships, Visenya and Daenerys give the order.

"Dracarys!"

The two dragons roar terrifyingly and set ship after ship on fire. The surprised soldiers load their crossbows and fire at the dragons. Meraxo growls furiously and shields his mother from a bunch of arrows before continuing to spew fire on the ships. Surprised, Drogon dodges a spear that was fired at him. Visenya tries to find out where the spear came from when another one is fired. This time at Meraxo. Screeching, the great dragon dodges the spear and torches the big crossbow from which the spear was fired. When Visenya looks around, she sees many ships that are equipped with such large crossbows. The spears aren't scorpions, but they are deadly if they hit the dragons in the right spots. Daenerys has also noticed and looks questioningly at Visenya, who is pointing up with her hand. Daenerys understands and guides Dragon into the clouds. Meraxo follows him.

"It is too dangerous. One of the spears is enough to seriously injure Meraxo and Drogon. We can`t take the risk.”, Visenya shouts at Daenerys, who nods in agreement.

"Let's burn their sails and then fly back.", Daenerys suggests and Visenya agrees.

The dragons fly over the fleet with a safe distance and set the sails on fire. When it looks like every single sail is on fire, the two riders set off with their dragons on their way home. Euron still has enough ships, but it would take longer because without a sail the ships are slower.

Meraxo and Drogon land on a small island in the sea.

"Take care of yourself. I'll see you in a few days.", Daenerys says goodbye to her niece and pulls her into a hug.

"Sure." Visenya promises her aunt, who nods to her and turns to go. "Daenerys.", Visenya stops her, whereupon she looks confused. “I'm happy for both of you. You are meant for one another.", says Visenya with a smile, whereupon Daenerys nods gratefully and returns her smile.

.

"What are you doing here?", asks Catelyn surprised when Visenya opens the door of her room.

“I'm here to set you free. Ned and the children are on their way to Winterfell."

"But Petyr ... he ..."

"He's no longer a problem."

"What does this mean?"

"He's sitting in a cell in Winterfell and now come on.", says Visenya impatiently.

She doesn't feel like arguing with Catelyn.

"These men will escort you to Winterfell.", explains Visenya and points to the men who are already waiting for Catelyn after they have left the Eyrie behind. "You will probably meet Ned and the others on the way."

"And what are you doing?"

"See you in Winterfell.", Visenya says curtly, goes to Meraxo, who has been waiting for her nearby, and climbs onto his back.

With a powerful flap of its wings, the dragon rises into the air and flies towards the sea.

"You're back.", Jon says happily when Meraxo drops Visenya on the ship.

"Aye. I am happy to be here again. With my family, who respect and like me.”, Daenerys says dryly when she thinks of Catelyn's disrespectful words. "I would love to twist the neck of the old goose."

“I can understand that very well. You don't know how many times I've come up with hundreds of scenarios how I can best kill her after everything she did to me.", Jon agrees.

"I would love to see her look when she would find out that you ..." Visenya interrupts herself when she sees Tyrion approaching them. “Lord Tyrion. What can I do for you?"

“I'm here to get Lord Snow for the meeting. Of course, you can come with us now that you are back.", says Tyrion, whereupon the twins go into the meeting room below deck.

.

„I don`t agree. This is nonsense.“, Jon says to Daenerys, meanwhile they are talking about strategy on the boat.

Everybody raises their eyes to their Queen. She hardly accepts when someone doesn`t agree with her and she is open for suggestions, but her advisors choose their words carefully. Expect Jon. He is always honest. Like Visenya. But everyone knows that she is the Queens niece. Daenerys advisors still don`t know who Jon really is. For them, he is a bastard from Winterfell who just insults the queen.

“I don`t remember when I asked your opinion.”, she answers and gives Jon a warning glaze.

He may be her lover and nephew, but her advisors don't know that. With his direct way of telling her his opinion, he undermines her authority. She loves him. She really does, but he must not and cannot expose her in front of her people.

“But you should listen to it.”, Jon says, leans forward and stares at her challenging.

The tension fills the whole room.

“I will. When I want to.”, she answers and turns her back at him, before she leaves the room.

Visenya rolls her eyes and massages the bridge of her nose. If this continues, the two will tear their clothes off in the middle of a meeting, she thinks unnerved. They are indeed like fire and ice.

"I think we all need a break. The meeting is adjourned.", Visenya ends the meeting and leaves the room followed by Cedric.

"I think you shouldn't question the queen like that.", suggests Tyrion.

"So, I'm supposed to crawl in front of her like you do and keep my opinion to myself? Who am I? A simple soldier?", growls Jon angrily and leaves the room.

Jon avoids Daenerys the rest of the day. He knows that he partly got it himself, but he wants to keep his identity a secret. That doesn't give Daenerys the right to humiliate him that much. He's not a bloody foot soldier.

.

Like every evening, Daenerys is waiting for Jon to knock on her door. Today is their last night on the ship before they arrive at White Harbor tomorrow. But no matter how long she waits, he won't come. She is mad at him and she wants to make him understand that no matter what is going on between them, he should still respect her. That night she's the one knocking on his door.

"My queen," he greets her.

"I want a word with you.", she says serious and goes into his cabin without his permission.

He keeps the distance from her. That kills Daenerys. She wants to feel his kisses and his touch on her skin. She wants him even more than usual after their discussion. Even if she would never admit it. She was still his queen. At least before the others.

„I am listening.“, Jon tells her coldly.

“I`ve been waiting for you.”

“Why?”

“Why? Because I thought you want to spend the last night with me. Before we reach the shores and ride to Winterfell.”, Daenerys tries to act confident. She hates being so dependent on Jon, but he has taken her heart by storm and torn down all her defenses. To others, she may be an untouchable queen, but when Jon is around, she's just a woman in love with certain needs.

“My apologize, your Graze, but you made it clear. You don`t want to hear neither respect my opinion.”, he answers, whereupon the tension between them grow bigger. They are staring at each other with fire in their eyes.

“Fine. We will see us tomorrow.”, Daenerys hisses and turns to leave, but Jon grabs her arm and pushes her to the wall. He presses her against the flat wooden wall and leans over her.

“You are my Queen in front of your advisers, but I am none of your foot soldier.”, he growls dangerously calm. Their faces are close. Jon`s eyes stops on her kissable lips. The tension and the silence in the room his huge.

“Who do you think you are?”, Daenerys asks arrogantly, and regrets it immediately.

“I will never be like the other men around you. I am your family. Like Visenya. And I am an honest man. I`ve always been. If you humiliate me in front of your advisors and you still expect me to go to your bedroom than I am not the right man for you.”, he tells her and their lips almost touches.

“I am your Queen.”

“I am a Targaryen, too. I may not want the Throne, but this doesn`t mean you can do everything.”, he answers and they are both starving for each other kiss.

Dany leans closer to finally kiss him, but he doesn`t let her, whereupon the anger grows in her. She hates that he has so much control over her body. Every limb contorts for his nearness and touch. In his arms she becomes weak and frail.

“If you don`t want to serve and respect your Queen then let me go.”, she says to him, but he is still pressing her to the wall.

“I wanted to serve you with my advise, but you weren`t interested. I don`t want to be just your lover behind closed doors. That isn`t me. If you want me then you should listen to my opinion.”, Jon says. He is so hard with his words. Hard but honest.

“Maybe I don`t want you.”, she lies. They both know that is a lie. A big one, but both of them are too stubborn to admit it.

“You don`t?”, asks Jon with a devilish grin and Daenerys knows she lost.

Jon leans to her neck and barely touches it with his lips while he searches the bottom of her dress. He lifts it and his fingers immediately finds her sex. She has no change to move away, not that she wants to.

“As I feel you want me.”, he growls in her ear and thrust his finger into her wet pussy. She moans to his ear and places her arms around his neck. “Just as I want you.”, he whispers to her ears and thrusts her deeper. “But I hate your behavior.” This woman will drive him crazy.

“You better get used to it.”, she moans and Jon stops with the thrust.

He almost rips her clothes off. Daenerys does the same with him. In the next moment all their clothes are on the floor, meanwhile their kisses become wilder and deeper. Jon raises her leg and places it around his waist. He is ready for her. His cock is ready to feel her. He grapes her hair with his other hand and pushes his hard dick into her.

“Fuck.”, Dany moans and loses control.

Jon is the perfect men for her and she fell in love with him, no matter how she wants to hate him at that moment. She can`t. He is the family she has always longed for. Her second half.

“Yes!”, she screams louder while Jon is fucking her like a wild animal. A wolf or a dragon. She doesn`t know and she doesn`t care.

He grapes her butt and raises her up. She is leaning to the wall with her back while her legs clasps around him.

“Fuck me, Jon. Yes!”, she screams in ecstasy.

She never experienced that kind of love. This rough, unconditional love. They are made for each other. They are like Ice and Fire and that make them crazier for the other. The Dragon and the Dragonwolf, fight for the upper hand and for dominance.

Meanwhile Cedric and Visenya laying in their bed in their cabin, cuddling with each other.

"I thought if they were in Jon's room, we wouldn't hear them.", Cedric sighs as the two of them hear moaning and screaming over and over again. "I wonder what he's doing with her."

Visenya slaps him on the chest and rolls her eyes.

"What? Did I ever make you scream like that?", asks Cedric, causing Visenya to blush.

Something about Cedric's tone of testimony makes her abdomen tingle. She bites her lip and lets her gaze slide over his defined chest. Visenya can't remember how long it was since they last had sex. She's still very uptight when it comes to sex, which is why they kept cuddling on the ship. Again, Visenya heard loud passionate screams from Daenerys. Her aunt doesn't care that everyone can hear her. It shouldn't matter to her either. Just the thought of letting go of all inhibitions kindles a fire of lust in her. Visenya slowly caresses Cedric's chest, which makes him gasp in surprise.

"What are you ... Oh, gods.", Cedric groans when Visenya crabs his cock and caress him.

"I want you to make me scream.", Visenya whispers seductively in Cedric's ear.

Without warning, he grabs Visenya by her hips and turns her onto her back. Then he presses his whole body against hers and almost eats her lips in a passionate kiss. His fingers find their way under Visenya's dress. Visenya groans in surprise when Cedric pushes two fingers into her and his thumb penetrates her clit.

“Yes! Kessa! Kessa!”, she moans loudly and lifts her hips to feel his fingers deeper inside her. Cedric pushes her back to the bed and gently bites her breasts with his teeth while he thrusts his fingers into her again and again. When Visenya starts talking in Valyrian, he blows his fuses.

Visenya feels how enormous pressure builds up inside her. She knows she won't last much longer.

"Cedric. I ... I'm coming.", she moans and presses her eyes tightly together.

"Cum for me, Visenya.", orders Cedric and accelerates his pace.

"Cedric!", she screams as she comes and falls back on the bed, breathing heavily.

But Cedric doesn't give her a break. He rips her night dress from her body and spreads her legs to make more place for him, before he thrusts his cock into her warm pussy. Hard and deep.

“Yes! Oh, god, yes!”, she screams in ecstasy and Cedric moans at her passionate reaction.

Cedric had always been careful and gentle, but now he fucks her like a wild animal and she adores it. For the first time, she doesn`t care if anyone hears her screams. It is liberating to scream out her lust. She whimpers when Cedric pulls out of her, only to turn her onto her stomach. He lifts her hips up and spreads her legs before he thrusts into her from behind. The new angle stretches Visenya so much that she briefly gasps in shock. But the pain goes away quickly and makes way for a new level of pleasure. Cedric touches her G-spot with every push. He leans forward and bites her shoulder as he pushes his cock into her again and again.

"Yes! Kessa! Yes!", Visenya gasps and claws into the pillow.

Chapter Text

After they went ashore in White Harbor, they made their way towards Winterfell. Daenerys noticed immediately that Jon and Visenya feel comfortable in the cold weather. Even if Visenya has lent her one of her thick coats, the Targaryen freezes terribly. Jon keeps her warm at night, but during the day the cold creeps into her bones.

After a few days she longs for the humid air in Essos. It´s not different for her soldiers either. Many of the unsullied wore only their sparse leather armor and the Dothraki their light fur clothing. Daenerys realized really quickly that not only the army of the dead is her enemy. Even the cold alone.

During their last break before they would reach Winterfell, Daenerys gathers her allies in the briefing tent to discuss how to proceed with the Lords of the small houses of the North. Rows of military tents stand in various stages of being pitched. It's a huge, sprawling campground, with Targaryen and Stark banners visible throughout. A large command tent dominates, decked out in Targaryen colors. Nearby, Dothraki riders unsaddle their horses, while Unsullied huddle miserably around a campfire. They have thick woolen cloaks pulled around themselves, but look rather frozen all the same.

“Another day's march should do it.”, Jon reports Daenerys in the meeting.

“Good to know.”, she answers and smiles at him slightly.

She was a little nervous. Jon and Visenya have warned her many times that the northerners are difficult people. It won't be easy to convince them to let Daenerys, a foreign queen, rule over their land.

“When that is clarified, we can now concentrate on the most important things. Your bannermen?”, Tyrion interrupts the glaze between Daenerys and Jon.

“They're expecting an audience.”, answers Jon.

“I look forward to meeting them.”, Daenerys says to hide her nervousness, whereupon Jon pauses before he continuous carefully.

“You will. But to begin, I think it's best if it's Northerners only.”

“You said they'd know of our alliance.”, Daenerys says and gives him a quizzical look.

“They do. But they'll have... questions. They'll speak more freely if it's just me. I can also ask Visenya if she will attend. You trust her and she can best represent you. The northerners know that she is partly Targaryen.”

“Well, let's do it that way.", Daenerys agrees with Jon's plan, whereupon she receives surprised looks from her advisors. Since when is Daenerys open to suggestions? “You'd best rehearse what you're going to say.”, she says to Jon, whereupon he nods and exits the tent. “I want to speak with Tyrion alone.”

All men, expect Tyrion exists the tent. Dany waits until they are out of earshot.

"Questions."

“Northmen are proud. Jon will have his work cut out for him.”

“He's their king.”

“He bent the knee. In the eyes of the Northerners their king bent the knee to an southern invader, who comes to Westeros to conquer them, after they fought so long and hard for their independence.”

“You don`t think the Northern lords will accept me?”

“I think you already know my answer. The relationship between the Starks and the Targaryen was shaken when your brother kidnapped Lyanna Stark, and a war broke out that cost thousands of lives.”

"If I remember correctly, your father gave the mountain the order to murder Elia Martell and her two children. Now your sister sits on the throne and tyrannizes all of Westeros after her two bastard sons, whom she fathered with her brother, sat on the throne and they died. I heard that Cersei blew up the Septa of Baelor, wiping out all Tyrells except Olenna, who was poisoned and killed by your brother after he stormed her castle. Your family brought so much suffering to Westeros. What happened between the Starks and the Targaryen is nothing against it."

"The north doesn`t forget. I know what my family did. Otherwise, I would not be here to advise you on how to overthrow them. Why do you doubt my loyalty?”

“You keep underestimating your sister. Now we are waging a war against the army of the dead, but what will happen if we go to war with your sister?”

"I don't underestimate my sister. Don't forget that it was me who convinced her to send her troops to the north to help."

"You really think she keeps her word?”, frowns Daenerys, whereupon Tyrion looks questioned at her. “You really are stupider than I thought."

"What does this mean?"

"Cersei will not send a single soldier to help. She only said that to give Euron Greyjoy time to pick up the Golden Company from Essos.”

“B … but he fled.”, stutters Tyrion.

“Euron didn`t flee to his island. He wants to marry Cersei in order to become king. For this he must get the Golden Company for your sister. Visenya and I have made sure that his crossing will be, how should I say it, more difficult than expected."

"Why are you telling me that now? I thought I am your hand."

"You are, but I only share my knowledge with those I trust completely."

"So, you only trust the woman you have known for what … less than a year, just because she also has dragons and says she is a Targaryen, who comes from nowhere and the bastard king who fucks you every night."

"Watch your tongue. What I do in my free time is none of your business.", Daenerys admonishes the little Lannister coldly.

“It is. When were you planning to tell me?”

“When I require your counsel.”

“This isn't just a personal matter. Anything you do together is politics, whether you think of it that way or not. I'm here to advise you on matters of politics.”, says Tyrion seriously. “Jon is not the kind of man to have a simple bed affair. If he's anything like his father, he'll be asking to marry you.”

"Why should he do that? I can't get pregnant and besides, what makes you think he wants to marry me?"

"He's totally in love with you. I saw the way he looks at you. That's exactly what I told you on Dragonstone.", Tyrion says, choosing his next words wisely. "The same goes for you. Just that you follow his advice and you let it get away with the fact that he talks to you in this way shows that he is more to you than a lover behind closed doors."

"Jon doesn't want to rule."

"That is exactly what makes him a good king."

Daenerys has to swallow a big one at his statement. She realizes that if Tyrion learned the truth about Jon`s true identity, he would choose and support him. Not her. Everyone in Westeros would choose Jon. An unreasonable fear spread inside her. She has given herself completely to a man who can take everything away from her. What if he had enough of her. He just has to say who he really is, and everyone would follow him. He would be more popular and everyone would love and respect him. Even Visenya would choose her brother. She was sure of that.

But then a picture appears in front of Daenerys' eyes. Jon looking at her lovingly and telling her that he loves her. Visenya, as she promises her that she will put her above everything else and will always stand behind her. Ser Jorah who is her oldest friend and would do anything for her. Missandei, who is her best friend and supports her in everything. Grey Worm who is her most loyal soldier and a good friend. Ser Barristan Selmy who served her brother and now her. All of them believe in her. All of them loves her. She realizes that even if the North and all of Westeros will never love and accept her, she still has her family and friends that she can count on.

She is torn from her thoughts when Tyrion waves his hand in front of her face.

"Are you even listening to me?", Tyrion asks, slightly annoyed.

"I was thinking. What did you want to say?", Daenerys asks, whereupon Tyrion sighs and repeats himself.

“Marriage is a powerful tool. It would certainly help you earn the North's loyalty. It softens the blow of their king bending the knee. But. It can only be used once. If you marry him, it closes the door of possibility. We can't ignore the fact that he's a bastard.”

“And what other possibilities do you have in mind?”, Daenerys asks and laughs cheerlessly.

“Euron Greyjoy, for example.”

“Euron Greyjoy.”, Daenerys repeats, raising her eyebrow in disbelief.

“I don't like him either. I don't want you to marry Euron Greyjoy. I don't want you to marry anyone, at the moment. I want you to leave open the possibility. At least in their minds.”

“I will think about it.”, Daenerys replies, careful to hide the annoyed undertone to please Tyrion.

When she made him her hand in Meeren, she had no one. Now she has a family. A family that really cares about her and isn't acting in their best interests, like Varys. The more time she spends with Visenya and Jon, the more she trusts them and the less she trusts her advisors. Visenya knows things that help her, while Tyrion hasn't given any good advice since they landed on Dragonstone. She begins to regret ever trusting Varys and Tyrion so much. She vows herself that when the war is over and they survive, she will reconsider the choice of her advisers.

Chapter Text

Arya sneaks inside a large tent of Stark colors, which she thinks is Jon’s. She knows that he will be back in Winterfell soon, but she couldn't wait to see her brother again after all these years. She internally congratulates herself when, after a few minutes, Jon actually walks into the tent where she is hiding. Jon is absorbing in thought, not paying attention. Arya turns and looks up. By her movement, Jon suddenly becomes aware that some unexpected stranger is in his tent. He starts backward in alarm and draws his sword in defense.

“Jon, it's me. It's Arya.”, Arya says with a trembling voice.

“Arya?”, Jon asks in disbelief and stares at his little sister, whereupon Arya nods with shining eyes.

“Seven Hells.”, Jon curses, his voice also trembles and tosses Longclaw aside, whereupon Arya runs to him and jumps into his arms. They share a huge embrace and hold each other for a very long time. Finally, they break apart. Jon looks Arya over, still incredulous.

“How did you get in here?”, Jon asks suspicious, whereupon Arya grins cryptically. “I think my heart stopped.”

“You need better guards.”, Arya says and Jon giggles happily. He missed his little sister so much.

“I thought you'd be waiting at Winterfell. I've missed you.”

“I've missed you too.”, Arya breathes and hugs him again.

When they break apart, Jon turns Arya slightly to get a better look at Needle, hanging at her side.

“I hear you're a great fighter now.”

“I hear you're King in the North.”

“Not anymore.”

“Mm. Sansa told me you'd bent the knee.”

“Daenerys pledged all her forces to our cause. She is …”

“You don't have to explain. Not to me. I don't care what Sansa thinks.”, Arya growls and Jon pauses, rather touched, then smiles.

“I'm impressed you haven't been at each other's throats.”

“We came close.”

Jon chuckles, then his grin fades a bit as he sees her expression.

“How close? Arya. We can't fight a war amongst ourselves …”

“You sound like father.”

“What's happened to you since you left home? Visenya was very sparse with her words.”, Jon asks interested. They take a seat and Arya begins to tell Jon, what happened.

After they have talked a lot, Jon wants to introduce his sister to Daenerys. Jon and Arya walk into the Targaryen command tent together. Dany and Tyrion are still there, together with Jorah and Barristan.

“Your Grace.”, Jon says to Daenerys, whereupon the silver-haired woman looks up. “May I present my … sister? Arya Stark.”, Jon introduces the two women. Dany and Arya regard each other with interest.

“I've heard much about you, Arya Stark.”, Daenerys says politely and gives the Stark girl a warm smile.

“Only Arya.”, she answers and continuous. “Is it true you ride a dragon into battle?”, Arya asks interested, whereupon Jon glances at Dany in mild embarrassment, but Dany is charmed rather than offended by Arya's directness.

“Yes, it is.”

“...can you carry other people with you?”

“Arya...”, Jon admonishes her and looks slightly ashamed at Daenerys. If he undermines her authority and talks to her like that, that's one thing, but his sister is another thing entirely. He doesn't know how Daenerys will react.

“When there's a need.”

“A boy king surrendered the Vale of Arryn to Visenya Targaryen, in exchange for a ride on her dragon's back.”, Arya says and Jon shoots Dany a "don't get any ideas" look, but Dany smiles. She likes this girl, and she knows how important she is to Jon.

Daenerys looks at her advisors inviting, who then bow and leave the tent. Daenerys would like to be alone with Jon and Arya so they can talk more freely.

Suddenly Visenya enters the tent and looks surprised at Arya.

“Visenya!”, Arya shouts with shining eyes. Then she runs to Visenya and throws herself in a tight hug with her cousin. “Where have you been that long? I`ve missed you. You knights are not good enough for me. I defeated Samuel three times in a duel, and father and Robb.”

“What did I say to you back in Essos. One day you will be the best sword-woman who ever lived.”, Visenya says and grins at her little cousin. “I`ve missed you too. Is everything alright in Winterfell?”

“Sansa is a little bitch.”, Arya answers, whereupon the adults in the tent looks at the little girl surprised and a bit shocked.

“Arya!”, Visenya admonishes her.

"What? That's right. She teamed up with Littlefinger and plotted against Jon and you. I had to tell her that he was holding mother prisoner and only then did she accuse him of treason. She is now being celebrated as a heroine, even though I executed him."

“You executed him?”, Visenya asks surprised.

“The one who passes the sentence should swing the sword. I cut his throat.”, Arya quotes her father.

"Does your father know about it?", asks Jon, shocked.

"No, he's still on the way.", Arya replies. "Visenya. Don't pretend I've never killed anyone."

"I'm not denying it."

"Wait ... You haven't told Jon about Essos yet." Arya states.

"Aye, but not every smallest detail.", Jon says.

"I killed six sons of Harpie. More than Can.", she boasts proudly. "Speaking of whom. How is Ser Barristan Selmy and ... what was the name of the Unsullied again?"

"Grey Worm. His name is Grey Worm. Thank you, for helping save my two advisors and friends. I owe you something.", Daenerys thanks the Stark girl.

"Can you take me with you when you ride one of your dragons?", asks Arya. "Actually, Visenya promised me that, but she's always up and away."

"Uhm. I can still remember very well how I took you with me on Meraxo and on ... Vhagario when we helped the hunters to prey in the wild. Besides, you have often sat on Hope. And you flied all the way to Essos."

"Sh, she doesn't know that.", Arya whispers cheekily, whereupon Jon, Daenerys and Visenya shake their heads laughing at the naughty girl.

Chapter Text

A young boy runs through a snowy forest wood, he crosses a shallow stream and then runs through the streets of the winter town. As he runs through the town, pigs squeal and donkey’s bray. He reaches the street and stands among a large crowd, struggling to see what is happening on the road. A man steps aside and the boy pushes through. A large army is marching along the road and the boy continues to run alongside them. He finds a tree and climbs up it to get a good view. Pan up to see the army marching along the road from the winter town up to Winterfell. A man's shout can be heard, and the boy turns to face the rear of the army. Pan around to see the large army of Daenerys. Cut to the middle of the army marching through the streets, Daenerys, Jon, Visenya and Arya atop their horses. A carriage is among the army, and it carries within Tyrion who sits opposite Varys.

“You should consider yourself lucky. At least your balls won’t freeze off.”, jokes Tyrion.

“You take great offense at dwarf jokes, but love telling eunuch jokes. Why is that?”, Varys asks, slightly offended.

“Because I have balls, and you don't.”

The army continues to march and Missandei and Grey Worm ride alongside each other. The villagers stare at them disapprovingly. People also stare at Jon, Daenerys, Visenya and Arya, but particular at the two silver-haired women as they ride past.

“I warned you. Northerners don't much trust outsiders.”, Jon says to Dany, whereupon she nods.

Suddenly a dragon roars and the villagers look up at the sky in fear. People start clamoring as Drogon, Rhaegal and Meraxo fly overhead. The dragons swoop over Winterfell and Sansa watches them fly overhead from the walls of Winterfell. Now there are two Targaryens in Winterfell, Sansa thinks and sights.

Jon, Daenerys, Visenya and Arya ride into Winterfell towards a crowd of people standing within. Bran is sitting at the front of the crowd. Jon rides up to him and dismounts his horse. He walks up to Bran, hugs him and kisses him on the forehead.

“Look at you.”, he greets Bran smiling. “You're a man.”

“Almost.”, Bran answers emotionless and looks at Visenya, slightly surprised. He didn`t know nor see that she was coming with Jon.

Jon looks at him quizzically and then up to Sansa who is standing next to him. He walks up to her and gives her a hug. Even if he knows that she betrayed Visenya and him, she was still his family. Jorah and Daenerys watch from behind. Jon turns around to Daenerys and she walks over to him.

“Queen Daenerys of House Targaryen. My sister, Sansa Stark, the Lady of Winterfell.”

“Thank you for inviting us into your home, Lady Stark. The North is as beautiful as your brother claimed, as are you.”, Daenerys says politely and smiles at Sansa.

Sansa looks at Daenerys hesitantly, then she looks at her feet before she answers.

“Winterfell is yours, Your Grace.”, she answers coldly, whereupon Visenya gives her a cautionary look. The Targaryen knows Sansa lied. She always looks at her feet before lying.

“We don't have time for all this. The Night King has your dragon.”, Bran interrupts their conversation. Daenerys turns to Bran and then she gives Visenya a glaze. “He's one of them now. The Wall has fallen, the dead march south.”

“We already knew that.”, Jon answers.

“The Night King have two dragons. Daenerys and mine.”, Visenyas says to Bran, whereupon his eyes widen slightly and his forehead wrinkles

“Why I can`t see you?”, Bran asks confused. “I only saw you once. At your birth.”

“I don`t know. You are the Three-Eyed-Raven. Not me. I am only a greenseer like Jojen Reed.”

“You are more than that.”, he says thoughtfully

“We should go inside and speak with the lords. As you said. The death march north.”, Jon interrupts the tense conversation between Bran and his sister.

He is uncomfortable that Bran, with the help of his powers, was there when Visenya was born. That means that he probably knows about him as well.

.

“As soon as we heard about the Wall, I called all our banners to retreat to Winterfell. Lord Umber when can we expect your people to arrive?”, Sansa asks in the meeting with the lords, whereupon a young boy stands up from the side of the room and walks forwards.

“We need more horses and wagons, if it please my lady.” The boy stops and then turns to look at Jon. “And my lord.”, he stops again and then turns to look at Daenerys. “And my queen. Sorry.”

“You'll have as many as we can spare. Hurry back to Last Hearth and bring your people here.”, Sansa offers, whereupon Lord Umber bows and walks out the hall as people chatter.

“We need to send ravens to the Night's Watch as well. There's no sense in manning the castles anymore. We make our stand here.”, Jon says and looks at Maester Wolkan.

“At once, Your Grace.”, the Maester answers, bows and exits.

"Your Grace.", says Lyanna, stands up and walks forwards “But you’re not. Are you? You left Winterfell a king and came back a- I’m not sure what you are now.”, she continuous and the lords start murmuring. “A lord? Nothing at all?”

“It's not important.”

“Not important? We named you King in the North.”, Lyanna says harshly and many men cheers.

“You did, my lady. It was the honor of my life. I’ll always be grateful for your faith. But when I left Winterfell, I told you we need allies or we will die. I have brought those allies home to fight alongside us. I had a choice, keep my crown or protect the North. I chose the North.”, Jon says and the lords begin to murmur.

Tyrion wants to stand up, but Daenerys holds him back with a gesture and stands up.

“Jon bent the knee, but he's still your king. In this war he's equal to me. We'll worry about our titles after we've survived.", says Daenerys, surprising everyone in the room.

The initial surprise changes with some of the lords in sympathy. Visenya nods approvingly. The conversation goes better than in her visions.

“May I ask, how are we meant to feed the greatest army the world has ever seen? While I ensured our stores would last through winter, I didn't account for Dothraki, Unsullied and two or rather three full-grown dragons. What do dragons eat, anyway?”, Sansa asks arrogantly.

“Whatever they want.”, Daenerys answers and looks challengingly at Sansa. “But I think you already know that. Anyhow, you lived in Visenya's castle for a very long time, who, to have said it again, also has dragons. Let the procurement of food be my concern, Lady Sansa.”

Sansa looks uncomfortable on her fingers after not even Jon approves her. Even if she doesn't like to admit it. Winterfell is now owned by a southern invader and she has to accept that. For now.

.

Meanwhile in King`s Landing Cersei sits on the Iron Throne. Euron and Harry Strickland stand opposite her.

“Twenty-thousand men, is it?”

“Unfortunately, I have to correct that. It's only ten-thousand, Your Grace. The other half is still in Essos. And a few died in transit.”, reports the commander, whereupon Cersei takes a sharp breath. She simmers inside, but doesn’t show anything.

“They cheated at dice. Or maybe I cheated. Someone cheated. They weren't good fighters. You won't miss them.”, Euron says.

“Horses?”

“Two thousand.”

“And elephants?”

“Uh, no elephants, Your Grace.”

“That's disappointing. I was told the Golden Company had elephants.”, says Cersei, irritated

“They are excellent beasts, Your Grace, but not well-suited to long sea voyages.”

“In any event, you are most welcome here in King's Landing, Captain Strickland.”, Cersei says and fakes a smile.

“We look forward to fighting on your behalf, Your Grace.”, Harry says, bows and exits.

“Am I most welcome here?”, Euron asks cheeky.

“You are a true friend of the crown and an honored guest, but I wonder why you only brought half of the agreed men of the Golden Company with you. Besides, I wonder why it took so long?”

“I'm afraid I have bad news to tell you. It seems like the Targaryen whore saw through our deception. Just when we were on the open sea, two dragons attacked out of nowhere and destroyed a few of our ships. When we shot them with spears, they withdrew and flared our sails out of range. It took days to get our ships back on course.”

"Only two dragons? I knew it. Something happened to the third one. They are vulnerable and can be killed."

"There is something else.", Euron begins hesitantly, whereupon Cersei frowns. "It was a very cloudy and foggy day and maybe my eyes have deceived me ..."

"Come to the point.", orders Cersei impatiently.

"Both dragons carried riders on their backs. Daenerys Targaryen flew on her black dragon again. Another woman with silver hair flew on the other."

"The queen beyond the wall.", Cersei murmurs.

"What?"

"There are rumors. Rumors about a woman from the north who appeared out of nowhere. Strange things have happened since the attack here in the throne room, when my older son was still on the throne."

"What strange things?", asks Euron with interested.

"Eddard Stark's body was found burned in the dungeon and Sansa Stark was kidnapped from the castle, during the attack. Gregor Clegane, one of the best and strongest knights, was murdered in Harrenhall. We received his head with the message ‘the north remembers’. Since the Red Wedding, at which Robb Stark, his foreign whore wife and Catelyn Stark were murdered, nothing has been heard from Walder Frey, nor from Roose Bolton. After several moons have passed, Ramsay Snow was suddenly back in Winterfell, having previously disappeared. He was killed after Jon Snow, Eddard's bastard, recaptured Winterfell. The Knights of the Vale came to Jon`s aid and rumor has it that the believed dead Catelyn Stark is safe in the Eyrie with her sister, who was recently murdered. Stannis` army has vanished and the missing Sansa Stark is back in Winterfell. There was also whispering in the surrounding areas of Kingslanding that they had seen shadows in the sky. Years before Daenerys even started heading towards Westeros with her dragons. My father recognized the connections and investigated, but this woman is like a ghost. Everyone knows she is there, but nobody knows that she exists."

“It all sounds really mysterious, but are you really sure that there is a woman behind it all? I mean … the world has become very complicated. The army of the dead, a Targaryen queen who rides into battle on her three dragons, a bastard who is made king. These are confusing times.”

“She is real. I saw her once. A few years ago. Right in front of me. Where you are right now. Eyes, deep brown with so much fire and hair, brown like melted chocolate. Her face was so familiar and yet so strange, but I can still clearly remember her look, which pierced me full of hate and disgust. She looked at Joffrey with the same look. Joffrey, who sat on the throne that belonged to the Targaryens for centuries.”

“But the rider I saw has silver hair.”, Euron reminds her.

“Have you ever heard of colored hair?”, Cersei asks and frowns.

“I think this mysterious woman is a topic for another day.", Euron tries to end the topic. “I was hoping we could talk in private.”

“After the war. That was our agreement.”, Cersei replies dismissively.

She has more important things to do, because she is just in the process of putting together the pieces of the puzzle that she has been thinking about for a long time. Who is this woman? Is she a surviving Targaryen that nobody knows about? What did she want the day she stood in the throne room? How did Daenerys find out about her plans so quickly? How many dragons are out there? Why wasn't the woman present at the meeting? Is she an ally of Daenerys? Could it be that she knows more than anyone else? Why was Eddard Stark's body burned? Is there a chance he's still alive? Questions, that keep her awake at night. She needs answers to know what to expect if the north defeats the army of the dead. Cersei knows that something is lurking in the shadows. Something dangerous that can take her everything that is dear to her.

Chapter Text

Inside the gate of Winterfell, Wolkan is greeting Alys Karstark as the Karstarks arrive.

“Welcome back, my lady. If you'd follow me.”, the Maester greets the Lady.

The two exit, while Varys, Davos and Tyrion are watching on.

“The Karstarks.”, Varys says, looking at their sigil.

“One of the better sigils. Beats an onion, anyway.”, Tyrion jokes.

“Can't argue with that.”, Ser Davos agrees. The three men start walking with each other. “Not so long ago, the Starks and the Karstarks were slaughtering each other on the battlefield. Jon Snow brought peace to the houses.”

“And our queen is grateful.”, Tyrion says.

“Her gratitude is lovely, but that's not my point. The Northmen are loyal to Jon Snow, not to her. They don't know her. The Free Folk don't know her. I've been up here a while, and I'm telling you, they're stubborn as goats. You want their loyalty, you have to earn it.”, notes Davos.

Tyrion stops and thinks. He then catches up with the two other men who continued to walk.

“I sense that you're leading to a proposal.”

Davos looks out over the castle wall, glazing at Jon and Daenerys, who are talking to each other.

“A proposal is what I'm proposing. On the off chance that we survive the Night King, what if the Seven Kingdoms, for once in their whole shit history, were ruled by a just woman and an honorable man?”

“They do make a handsome couple.”, Tyrion says, glazing at Jon and Daenerys too.

“You overestimate our influence. Jon and Daenerys don't want to listen to lonely old men.”, Varys interjects.

“I'm not that old.”, Tyrion says and looks up at Varys, then at Davos. “Not as old as him.”, he adds and Davos chuckles. “Our queen respects the wisdom of age.”

“Of course, she does. Respect is how the young keep us at a distance, so we don't remind them of an unpleasant truth.”, says Varys sadly.

“What is that?”, Tyrion asks his friend interested.

“Nothing lasts.”

“Like your life? Exactly.”, Visenya says, causing the three men to wince. The Targaryen always manages to sneak up on them.

“Lady Visenya.”, Varys greets and bows slightly.

“It`s Queen Visenya, Lord Varys.”, Davos corrects him.

"Excuse me. I get a little confused with all the queens and kings.", Varys says and eyes Visenya suspiciously.

"I couldn't help but hear your talk. Your testimony reminded me of something Lord Baelish once said to you in the throne room in Kingslanding. It seems like a lifetime ago. What were his words again? Chaos isn't a pit. Chaos is a ladder.", begins Visenya and fixes Varys with her iron gaze, whose eyes widen in shock. "Many who try to climb it fail, and never get to try again — the fall breaks them. And some are given a chance to climb, but they refuse. They cling to the realm, or the gods, or love ... illusions. Only the ladder is real, the climb is all there is. You know, what visions I like the most. Littlefinger and your conversations. You two have already played your own Game of Thrones. He started the war of the five kings and you widen your influence. Treason, intrigue, deception. You always thought you were the smartest."

"What are you wanna tell me, Your Grace?", asks Varys, kneading his fingers uncomfortably.

"Take it as a warning. I saw you burn. Like Melisandre said. You will die in this strange country. Just like her. You tried to poison my aunt before. If you try again, you will crumble to ashes. I protect my family and I know what's to come. Tyrion and you have failed as advisers. Many who try to climb it fail, and never get to try again — the fall breaks them … or kills them. Littlefinger already paid with his life for betraying my family.", says Visenya as calmly as if she were talking about the weather. Then she turns to Tyrion. "Your brother will soon reach Winterfell. Alone. But you already know that. Don't you?", she says and leans to him.

"You should pray that Eddard Stark will have mercy on the man who pushed his son out of the tower, who then became a cripple.", Visenya whispers in Tyrion's ear before nodding to the men and leaving the wall.

"What did she say to you?", asks Varys, still shocked by Visenya's testimony.

"Nothing.", Tyrion replies lost in thought.

What did she mean by Eddard going to judge Jamie? Eddard Stark is dead, isn`t he?

Meanwhile Jon and Daenerys walk together as men shout indistinctly in the background and prepare Winterfell for the coming war.

“Your sister … cousin doesn't like me.”, Daenerys says to Jon, whereupon both stop and turn to one another.

“Sansa doesn't know you. She is like her mother. If it makes you feel any better, she didn't like me either when we were growing up.”, Jon says and pauses. “I don't think she likes me now either.”

“She doesn't need to be my friend but I am her queen. If she can't respect me …”

Daenerys stops, when three Dothraki men ride up to her.

“How many today?”, she asks in Dothraki

“Only eighteen goats and eleven sheep.”, one of the men replies, then they Dothraki ride away.

“What's the matter?”, Jon asks worried when he sees Daenerys worried look.

“The dragons are barely eating.”, she replies and walks off. Jon follows her.

They walk up to Drogon and Rhaegal who are standing either side of a pile of bones. The dragons growl softly as they approach.

“What's wrong with them?”

“They don't like the North.”, Daenerys says and touches Drogon's nose. Rhaegal looks at Jon and gets close. Daenerys climbs on Drogon's back and, smiling, nods towards Rhaegal.

“Go on.”, she invites her nephew, whereupon he looks at the dragon, unsure as to what to do.

“I don't know how to ride a dragon.”, Jon says, thinking of how many times he had seen Visenya fly. It always looks so easy.

“Nobody does. Until they ride a dragon.”

“What if he doesn't want me to?”

“Then I've enjoyed your company, Jon Snow.”, she jokes even if she knows for sure that Rhaegal won't harm Jon. He is a Targaryen. Born to rule the sky on the back of a dragon.

Defeated, Jon walks around the side of Rhaegal and then climbs on top whilst grunting.

“What do I hold onto?”, he asks nervously and looks questioningly at Daenerys.

“Whatever you can.”, Daenerys replies, grinning at Jon's awkwardness.

Jon grabs onto the dragon, who then proceeds to lift off whilst chittering. Daenerys watches and smiles, before leaning forwards, cuing Drogon to follow them. The dragons continue to fly higher, Rhaegal turns side-to-side causing Jon to yell out. They fly over the soldiers outside Winterfell and past Tyrion, Davos and Varys who are standing at the castle wall, staring in disbelief as they watch. Visenya smiles, when she sees her brother is flying a dragon. But then her attention falls on a group of hooded travelers approaching the gate. They are finally here, Visenya thinks and leaves the terrace to go to her people.

.

Drogon flies ahead of Rhaegal and continues higher before nosediving. The green dragon follows after his brother. They continue calmly before reaching a canyon, where the dragons dive straight down, before flying along the canyon floor. Once out of the canyon, Jon turns Rhaegal off, so Daenerys instructs Drogon to do the same. She lands down next to Jon. The two Targaryens, now dismounted from their dragons, walk together away from the dragons.

“You've completely ruined horses for me.”, Jon complains and smiles at the breathtaking feeling that the flight on Rhaegal triggered him. He felt so powerful. So free.

Daenerys giggles and then notices a large waterfall. The two lovers stop and Daenerys admires the beautiful landscape around them.

“We could stay a thousand years.”, she says and turns back to look at Jon. “No one would find us.”

“We'd be pretty old.”, Jon answers smiling, thinking of letting all behind him and stay here, together with the woman he loves.

Daenerys chuckles and the two walk up to one another.

“It's cold up here for a southern girl.”, says Jon, reaching for Daenerys gloved hands.

“So, keep your queen warm.”, she commands seductively.

Jon pulls her in and kisses her. The dragons start to growl softly causing Jon to pull away.

“Don't be afraid.”, Daenerys says, grinning.

They smile and continue their kiss in each other's embrace. Jon opens his eyes to see Drogon staring at them. He breaks the kiss and looks at Drogon. His gaze falls on the waterfall and an idea occurs to him. He takes Daenerys` hand and leads her to the cave behind the waterfall, which he was often in as a child when he wanted to be alone.

When they enter the cave, Daenerys's mouth falls open. The cave is bathed in a blue, unreal light caused by the reflection of the water. Due to the warm spring in the middle, the cave has a pleasantly warm temperature. The stones, damp from the haze, glitter in the few rays of the sun that shine through the waterfall.

"It's beautiful here.", Daenerys breathes and looks at Jon who is staring at her intensely.

"I was here several times as a child when I wanted to be alone. Do you want a hot bath to warm yourself up?", he asks boldly and takes off his coat.

Shortly afterwards, his undershirt and pants also fall to the floor. Daenerys involuntarily bites her lip at the sight of his naked beauty and begins to undress herself too. Jon takes her hand and leads her into the hot water. Daenerys sighs in relief as the water slowly warms her up.

"I don't think I'm warm enough yet. Can you help me with that, Lord Snow?", Daenerys asks in a voice thick with pleasure.

"I see what I can do for you, my queen.", Jon replies huskily, grabs her by the hips and presses his lips hungrily on hers.

.

“Welcome home, uncle.”, Visneya greets her uncle as Ned, Catelyn, Robb, Rickon and Visenya's knights enter Winterfell. The Stark family wear large hoods to hide their faces. Nobody knows how the people will react to the arrival of the Lord believed dead and the Young Wolf. "We should go inside.", suggests Visenya when she sees that some people are looking at the newcomers with interest and whispering their heads together.

However, their cover is blown very quickly when Sansa frantically runs over to them and throws herself into her mother's arms.

"I missed you, mother.", she says, loud enough for some of the onlookers to hear.

Visenya energetically drives the family inside and gathers them in one of the meeting rooms. Then closes the door and the Starks pull off their hoods.

"Seven hells.", suddenly someone says from the side.

"Ser Davos. What are you doing here?", asks Visenya in surprise and looks back and forth between Jon's advisor and Eddard.

"I ... I'm waiting for Jon. He arranged a meeting here. I guess the rumors are true.", Davos stutters and his eyes widen even more, when he recognizes Shireen, who stands behind Robb.

"Lady Shireen.", he says in disbelief, when he sees her safe and sound.

“Davos.”, she says, also delighted, and throws herself into the old man's arms. "I missed you."

"I missed you too.", he replies, hugging the girl, who is like a daughter to him, with glassy eyes. "I thought I would never see you again."

After the two break up and Davos has wiped a treacherous tear from the corner of his eye, his attention is back on Eddard and his family.

"Ser Davos Seaworth. You were Stannis' advisor, weren't you?", asks Eddard.

"Aye. He came to the north to avenge you and to take back Winterfell.”, Davos says nervously. He doesn't know what to do with the lord who was believed dead. "I'm sorry we failed."

“I am sorry that so many people have died in my name. Stannis would have been the rightful king. "

“I believed that for a long time. Now your son is my king. Jon is a better king than Stannis ever was. You raised him to be an honorable and just man. "

“He's a bastard. Not a king.”, Catelyn snorts and rolls her eyes.

“Speaking of him. Where is he?”, Robb asks eagerly and ignores his mother's statement. He's been looking forward to seeing his brother again for years.

Davos gives Visenya a look and clears his throat.

"Jon is … busy right now.", Visenya replies and has to resist a giggle.

Suddenly the door opens and Arya and Cedric enter the room.

"Father.", says Arya happily and throws herself into Eddard's arms.

“By the seven gods, Arya. How many times have I told you not to sneak away. I was worried.”

"I can take care of myself.", replies Arya, clasping her hands over her chest.

"Um, as I see Jon is not here yet. Should I adjourn the meeting?”, asks Cedric as he has looked around the room.

“He'll be here soon. Keep Varys, Tyrion, and the other lords out of this room. I think it's better if we teach them gently that the Starks are back.”, Visenya orders.

"Of course. I will take care of it.", answers Cedric, nods goodbye and leaves the room.

"Are you still giving orders to Cedric?", asks Morana, amused, rocking the sleeping Lyanna soothingly in her arms.

"He loves to take orders from me.", replies Visenya mischievously.

"Please no details. There are children in this room.", says Morana with a giggle, then whispers to Visenya. "I want to know everything."

"Later.", Visenya promises her with a wink.

"Please stop. I'm going to feel sick.", Arya grumbles and covers her ears.

"Says the one, who snogging around wildly in every corner of Winterfell with a certain blacksmith.", Visenya counters cheekily, whereupon Arya blushes.

"What!", Catelyn, Eddard and Robb shout at the same time.

But before they can continue the conversation, the door opens again and Jon enters the room followed by Daenerys. The two are talking and giggling, until Jon glaze sticks to his family. His facial features slip away and he remains frozen, whereupon Daenerys runs into him.

Chapter Text

"Jon.", Robb says happily, walks up to his still frozen brother and pulls him into a brotherly hug. After a moment of shock, Jon returns the hug and gives Robb a tight hug.

"I thought I'd never see you again, Robb.", Jon mumbles and closes his eyes overwhelmed.

After the two brothers break up, Robb's eyes fall on Daenerys, who gives him a friendly smile. She was visibly touched by the reunion of the two.

"Don't you want to introduce me to the pretty woman you are with?", asks Robb boldly.

“This is Queen Daenerys Targaryen. Your Grace, this is my family. Robb, Rickon and … Eddard Stark.“, he introduces everyone to each other.

"It's a pleasure to meet you all.", Daenerys says politely.

Visenya notices Catelyn's hateful look with which she punctures her brother. If looks can kill, Jon would be dead now. The Lady of Winterfell hates the whole situation. The bastard, whose death she has often wished, stands before her: alive. If that is not enough, he is now king and has the nerve not to introduce her to the Targaryen whore who now lives under the roof of her family`s home.

"I apologize for what Robert did to your family.", says Eddard, truly rueful.

"I'm sorry about what happened to your father and brother.", Daenerys says sympathetically. "And your sister.", she adds after a moment when she sees Jon glaze.

“I wanted to talk Robert out of poisoning you and your babe. It fills my heart with joy that you are here before me. Lively. I hope your child is fine too.", Eddard says honestly, whereupon Visenya draws in a sharp breath. She never told him Daenerys lost Rhaego. Daenerys takes a shaky breath and winks away her emerging tears before answering.

"My son never lived. The dragons are my only children. The only children I will ever have.", Daenerys says and tries to hold back her tears.

Her sad sight shatters Jon's heart. He wants to take her in his arms and comfort her now, but it's not the right moment. To many people are in this room. She is still a queen.

“My condolence, for your loss. I didn't know anything about it.”, Eddard replies, ashamed. He wanted to look good to end the years of hostility between the Starks and Targaryens, but he's failing in every way.

“The past is the past. What matters is the future. Thank you for protecting my niece. It's good to know that I'm not the last Targaryen.”

He gives Jon a sidelong glance and then looks at Visenya, who returns his gaze emotionlessly. Apparently, she hasn't told Jon the truth yet. It was better that way.

"It was an honor for me. I would never have let anything happen to her. Unfortunately, she wasn't safe with me, otherwise I would have raised her here in Winterfell. Close to me to keep an eye on her."

"I don't think she would have enjoyed being a bastard.", Jon makes a comment.

"I think we should let Lord Stark and his family talk alone.", suggests Davos, whereupon everyone except Visenya, Daenerys, Jon, Eddard, Catelyn, Robb, Sansa, Arya and Rickon leave the room.

"I think you should go too, Your Grace.", Sansa says pointedly to Daenerys.

"She stays.", hisses Jon and looks warningly at Sansa, who, surprised by Jon's sudden change in mood, looks uncertainly at her mother, who takes her daughter's hand protectively.

Visenya looks worriedly at her brother. She sees from his tense jaw and his fists clenched that he is on the verge of freaking out. She walks over to him and puts a hand on his shoulder to calm him down. Only when Eddard sees the twins standing next to each other he notices for the first time how similar the two look. Only Visenyas shining silver hair and her feminine features compares them. How long will it take for someone to put one and one together, Ned wonders.

"How dare you speak to my daughter like that, bastard.", Catelyn snaps at Jon, his mouth twisting in a joyless smile.

"I'm your king, so watch out how you talk to me.", Jon counters, whereupon everyone looks at him in surprise.

It was the first time Jon had stood up to Catelyn. As a child he never dared to contradict her and huddled under her hatred. Now that he knows who he really is, he's no longer afraid of Catelyn. She is just an old, desperate woman who has failed to accept a motherless child and treat it with respect. She reminded him as often as she could that he was just a worthless bastard. She never let him forget who he was. Who he thought he was. But now he knows. He is a Dragonwolf. He will always be more Stark than she would ever be.

“You are not a king. Robb is the real king."

"Mother, I ...", Robb throws indignantly, but she ignores him completely.

“You're just a worthless bastard. The son of a brothel whore."

“Am I?”, Jon asks self-confidently and takes a threatening step towards Catelyn, who shrinks back in surprise. All the emotions that he has suppressed over the years suddenly come up. All the anger seethes beneath the surface. For a split second, Jon imagines himself ordering Rhaegal to rain fire down on the Tully.

"Jon.", Visenya says warningly and puts her hand on his chest to keep him from twisting Catelyn's neck or worse. Catelyn has no idea what she woke. Hopefully Jon will calm down before he says something he'll regret later. A sideways glance at Ned reveals that the former lord is frozen in shock at Jon's outburst. The old lord has never seen Jon so angry. It almost scares him.

“If I didn't hate you so much, I would be downright sorry for you. You were jealous of my mother, because Ned loved her so much that he didn't even tell you who she was.”, Jon says, his voice shaking with anger. When the hatred, the loneliness and the feeling of being unloved suddenly come up. A raging anger that has simmered under the surface for so long suddenly spills over. Catelyn woke the dragon. He takes a deep breath and nods to Visenya, who then walks back so Jon can look Catelyn in the eye. “As a child, I wished that you would look at me the way you look at your children so many times. Even if it had only been once. I never understood why you hated me so much. What can I do for it to have been born? I didn't ask for it. The only thing I wanted - the only thing I needed - was a mother. Or at least a woman who accepted my presence and did not pray to the gods every day so that they would take me away. I remember exactly what you said to me when I said goodbye to Bran. I can remember every single time you wished me to die. You reminded me every day of what I was. A worthless bastard. The only thing that stains your perfect family.”, Jon says, holding Catelyn with an iron gaze. “It seems the gods have heard your prayers. I was murdered. My own brothers thrust daggers into my chest. I did what I thought was right. And I got murdered for it."

The Stark family looks at Jon in shock and Catelyn swallows hard. She didn't expect that.

“I'm glad I died. So, I was able to see my mother again.", says Jon, smiling slightly at the memory. Then he looks at Ned. "And my father."

Eddard flinches involuntarily.

"Jon, I ..."

"No, I don't want to hear anything from you.", Jon snaps at Ned, which surprised the Lord and caught shocked looks from his family. “All my life I've wondered who my mother was. I kept asking myself the same thing over and over again. Is she still alive? What did she look like? Why did she leave me? Do you remember what you promised me the last time we saw each other?"

"The next time we see each other we`ll talk about your mother. I promise.”, Ned repeats his words.

"If Visenya hadn't freed you from King's Landing, I would probably never have found out who my mother was."

"She told you.", Ned realizes and looks at Visenya and then at Daenerys.

“My mother … I visited her. Down in the crypts of Winterfell. The statue don`t even look like her."

“What does that mean?”, asks Arya, confused.

“Jon isn't really our father's son.”, Bran suddenly answers, who came in the room without anyone noticing.

“Bran!”, Visenya interrupts the Three-Eyed-Raven, who was about to reveal Jon and her true identity. “It is his decision. Not yours.”, she hisses angrily.

“It´s okay, Visenya. Go on Bran.”, Jon decides after a moment's thought, whereupon Bran continues.

“He's the son of Rhaegar Targaryen and our aunt, Lyanna Stark. He was born in a tower in Dorne together with his twin sister Visenya.” Everyone is eying Visenya and Jon in surprise. “Robert's Rebellion was built on a lie. Rhaegar didn't kidnap our aunt, or rape her. He loved her. And she loved him. He's never been a bastard … His name is Aegon Targaryen, sixths of his name and heir to the Iron Throne.”

All eyes fall on Jon, who looks pensive at Bran. He would have revealed his secret without his permission. This isn't the little wild boy he left behind in Winterfell back then. His gut feeling tells him something ominous is in the air. And that doesn't mean the army of the dead marching towards them. A look at his sister confirms his concern. She looks at Bran with narrowed eyes. When he tears himself away from his thoughts, he looks around and finds many different facial expressions. Catelyn looks shocked at Eddard, who in turn looks at Daenerys, who only looks worried at Jon. Arya looks surprised between Jon and Visenya and Robb scratches his neck, overwhelmed. Rickon seems to have completely forgotten what was just said. Sansa looks horrified at her father and Visenya crosses her hands over her chest.

“Wait a moment! Then you are not my brother, but my cousin.", Arya states excitedly. “I grew up with a fucking Targaryen. How cool is that. Shall I call you Aegon now?”

“Seven hells, Arya, please don't. I don't want everyone to know."

"But you are the heir to the Iron Throne.", says Robb, still shocked by the truth.

“I don't want the throne, damn it. I will hang the next one who says that.”, says Jon warningly.

"But you have the better claim.", Sansa interjects and eyes Daenerys confident of victory. "So, you are actually not the rightful queen."

“Daenerys is our queen and if any of you even thinks of telling the truth of my identity, I'll feet Lyraxa with your limbs. Or Ghost. Depending on which of the two is hungrier at the moment.”, warns Jon his family, before Daenerys could answer.

"Who is Lyraxa?", Arya asks, confused.

"Jon's dragon.", Visenya replies, whereupon Arya turns to Jon.

"You have a fucking dragon and don't even tell me!", Arya snaps at Jon, indignant.

"Wait a moment! You have a dragon. Made of flesh and blood that can breathe fire?”, asks Robb in disbelief.

"Aye. Jealous?”, Jon jokes.

"Of course."

"You have a daughter for that.", Jon reminds his brother.

"Aye. But you can't compare that to a dragon. I'm really jealous.", Robb admits grinning.

"Well. Things change. I was always jealous of you. Now it's the other way around it seems.", Jon says confident. Gods, how he missed his brother.

“Can you ride her into battle?”, Arya asks still excited of her brothers reveal.

“No, she is too little.”

“But he bounded with my son Rhaegal.”, Daenerys says and smiles proudly at Jon.

“He almost dismounted me the last time.”, Jon wails, causing Daenerys and Visenya to laugh at him.

They obviously forgot that Ned and Catelyn are also in the room. Eddard wistfully watches as Jon enjoys himself with his other family. The former lord has never seen Jon so happy and composed. By the gods, what have I done to him, Ned curses himself.

"You'll learn.", Visenya encourages her brother.

"Yes, Rhaegal would never throw you off on purpose.", Daenerys agrees with her niece. "Unless I tell him to.", she adds mischievously, which Jon acknowledges with a horrified look.

"You have to take me with you, Jon.", Arya begs, apparently unable to get enough of dragon riding.

"I was just kidding, Jon.", Daenerys promises, giggling, letting him breathe out a sigh of relief.

"Did you seriously think Daenerys would let her only nephew fall to his death?", Visenya jokes, knowing that her two relatives are more than just aunt and nephew.

Before Jon can reply, the door opens and Cedric sticks his head inside.

"Sorry for the interruption, but we have some problems with the Lords.", Cedric apologizes when he sees that he has apparently interrupted an important conversation. Davos appears next to him.

"Arrange a meeting in the great hall.", Jon orders his advisor, who nods and carries out the order.

"You should stay here for the time being, where nobody can see you.", Visenya suggests and Eddard nods in agreement.

After Daenerys, Jon, Sansa, Arya and Bran have left the room, Visenya stops at the door for a moment.

“You should have told him as a child. That would have made his childhood a lot easier.”, she says to Ned. “I know you promised our mother, but you should have been honest with your wife too. Maybe then she would have been ready to be his mother."

Eddard sighs and nods shortly to Visenya, who then also leaves the room.

"Is that really true, Ned?" Catelyn asks her husband in a trembling voice, when they were alone.

"Aye. Jon is Lyanna's son. He isn`t my bastard."

She doesn't know whether they are tears of shame and self-hatred or tears of joy. She hated Jon all her life. For no reason. She humiliated and insulted him. Every single day. She prayed to the gods to kill him. She really is the worst woman who has ever lived. How could she do such a thing to a motherless, innocent boy. Lyanna's son. She doesn't even want to imagine what her sister-in-law thinks of her.

“Why didn't you tell me, Ned? Do you have so little faith in me? Do you seriously think I would have run to Robert and given him Jon, so he can kill him?", Catelyn asks, whereupon Robb takes Rickon by the hand and goes into the next room with him. This is a conversation between his parents and not intended for their ears. Also, he needs time to think. Jon, who he thought was his brother, is actually his cousin. If that's not exciting enough, he's also heir to the Iron Throne and a fucking dragon-riding Targaryen. He suddenly remembers all the times he teased Jon and saw him as less than him because he thought he was a bastard. His father lied to them all to protect Jon. How many arguments there were between his mother and father about this. And for what? For nothing, because Eddard Stark was an honorable man, who did everything he could to protect his sister's child. He would never and would never cheat on his wife. Robb loves his mother, but her behavior towards Jon was beneath all dignity. Instead of trusting her husband, she made Jon's life miserable. But the worst of all was that he, Robb Stark, just watched instead of standing up for his brother. He would never be able to forgive himself for that.

.

"I promised my sister and I would have taken her promise to the grave."

“I hated him, Ned. I wanted his death. You knew how much I hated him. How could you let that happen?", she asks, stunned.

“I had no other choice. We built our love brick by brick. I didn't know if I could really trust you."

“Why didn't you tell me when you started trusting me? Our marriage is built on a secret that has always stood between us.", she blames him with tears in her eyes.

“That secret was just too important. So important that I couldn't even tell the people I love. Jon was always in danger. I didn't want to risk him getting killed. I think part of me wanted Jon to be my son. I should have let him grow up with his sister, but I wanted him close to me. The only thing I have left of Lyanna. The more years passed, the more the truth faded into the background. I always had the hope that one day you would love him. I held on to the idea until I rode to King's Landing. I loved you Catelyn and part of me will always love you. That part was the reason why I didn't tell you."

"I don't understand what you mean by that.", Catelyn says and blows her nose into her cloth handkerchief.

“Now that I think about it, I don't even know why I didn't tell you. Maybe I was afraid you might tell someone. Maybe I didn't fully trust you either. I definitely didn't want to disappoint my sister. I knew, when I go down that path there would be no way back."

"You didn't have to bear this burden alone."

“Yes, I had to. I promised Lyanna.", Ned insists, his lips trembling, from the hidden emotions that threaten to boil over.

“She's dead, Ned. That secret doesn't keep her alive. You have to let her go.", Catelyn says urgently, when she realizes why Ned kept the secret for so long. He doesn't want to disappoint his sister. After all these years, he still hasn't come to terms with her death. He lives a lie to himself so as not to admit the truth. "Let her go, Ned.", Catelyn calls on her husband gently and comfortingly caresses Ned's hands when all his dams break and he starts to cry. It's the first time she's seen him cry. All these years he has eaten his grief into himself. Holding on to Lyanna even though she was long gone.

“I should have protected her, Cat. I failed as a brother.”, Ned sobs and Catelyn takes him in her arms. "I miss her every single day."

“I know, Ned. I know.", Catelyn says and caresses his back comfortingly. "I'm here for you. As I always have been and always will be."

Not everything has been said today, but that's enough for now. Catelyn will probably never be able to forgive Ned, even if he did the right thing. But Visenya was also safe at Castle Wolfeshowl. Ned could have saved them so much if he had never taken Jon to Winterfell. What man would claim a child as his bastard just to protect him? An honorable man, Catelyn thinks. Honorable but selfish.

This secret. This lie will always stand between them forever. Neither Ned nor Catelyn are sure if their marriage is still salvageable. So much has happened in the meantime. Old wounds have been opened and new ones have opened up. Many of them may never heal.

Only time can tell.

Chapter Text

On the next day, Jaimie Lannister stands in the Great Hall of Winterfell. Daenerys, Jon, Visenya and Sansa sit on the long table at the head of the room.

“When I was a child, my brother would tell me a bedtime story about the man who murdered our father.”, Daenerys begins.

Jaime is standing in the middle of the room facing Daenerys. On the left of the room there is a shorter table where Tyrion, Varys, Missandei and Jorah sit. On the right there is another table where Davos, Lyanna, Lord Yohn Royce, Alys Karstark and Brienne of Tarth sit.

“Who stabbed him in the back and cut his throat. Who sat down on the Iron Throne and watched as his blood poured onto the floor.”, she continuous, causing Jamie to lowers his eyes, ashamed.

“He told me other stories as well. About all the things we would do to that man once we took back the Seven Kingdoms and had him in our grasp.”, Daenerys and pauses. “Your sister pledged to send her army north.”

“She did.”

“I don't see an army. I see one man, with one hand. It appears your sister lied to me.”, says Daenerys with a menacing undertone. She has donned her royal mask and watches every tiny movement of the man in front of her.

“She lied to me as well. She never had any intention of sending her army north.”, Jamie defends himself, whereupon Daenerys turns to Tyrion, who looks at his hands, which lies on the table. “She has Euron Greyjoy's fleet and 20,000 fresh troops. The Golden Company from Essos, bought and paid for.”

“She has only ten-thousand troops.”, Visenya corrects him. “Queen Daenerys and I sunk a couple of Euron's ships and torched the sails of his fleet.”, corrects Visenya Jamie, who surprises her pattern, then clears his throat. That must be the hidden Targaryen. Cersei was right in her crazy reasoning.

“Even if we defeat the dead, she'll have more than enough to destroy the survivors.”, the one-handed-man insists.

“"We"?”, Daenerys asks and frowns. She does not trust the man.

“I promised to fight for the living. I intend to keep that promise.”, Jamie promises, whereupon Tyrion steps forwards towards Daenerys.

“Your Grace, I know my brother …”, Tyrion begins.

“Like you knew your sister?”, she interrupts him.

“He came here alone, knowing full well how he'd be received. Why would he do that if he weren't telling the truth?”, Tyrion defends his brother.

“Perhaps he trusts his little brother to defend him, right up to the moment he slits my throat.”, Daenerys suggests. Jon automatically grabs his sword. He would never allow anyone wanting to harm her to get anywhere near Daenerys. Tyrion looks to Jon and Sansa.

“You're right. We can't trust him. He attacked my father in the streets. He tried to destroy my house and my family, the same as he did yours.”, Sansa agrees with Daenerys.

“Do you want me to apologize? I won't. We were at war. Everything I did, I did for my house and my family. I'd do it all again.”, Jamie insists bravely.

“The things we do for love.”, Bran says, whereupon Daenerys, Sansa and Jon all turn slowly to look at Bran who sits to the side of Sansa. Jaime looks at him and Bran maintains eye-contact.

“So why have you abandoned your house and family now?”, Daenerys asks, suspicious.

“Because this goes beyond loyalty.”, he answers and looks to see Brienne, then turns back. “This is about survival.”

“You don't know me well, Your Grace.”, Brienne of Tarth says, stands and walks from behind her table to stand in the middle of the Hall beside Jaime. “But I know Ser Jaime. He is a man of honor. I was his captor once. But when we were both taken prisoner and the men holding us tried to force themselves on me, Ser Jaime defended me. And lost his hand because of it.”, she continuous and addresses Sansa. “Without him, my lady, you would not be alive. He armed me, armored me, and sent me to find you and bring you home because he'd sworn an oath to your mother.”

"It's not up to me to decide what to do with Ser Jamie.", Sansa replies and looks at Daenerys, who nods. Sansa turns to Jaime. "I think my father should decide what should happen to you."

"I'm afraid I don't quite understand what ..." Jaime's words stick in his throat when the gate opens and Eddard Stark, accompanied by Catelyn, Robb and Rickon, enters the hall.

Shocked, surprised and confused, those present look at the Stark family, who were believed to be dead. Everyone in the room starts whispering excitedly.

"Ser Jaime.", greets Eddard Stark the frozen knight, after nodding to Daenerys.

"L ... Lord Stark.", Jaime stutters and looks overwhelmed at Tyrion, who returns his shocked look.

Even Varys, who always thought he knew everything, has lost all indifferent composure. Of course he had heard rumors that Lord Eddard Stark was still alive, but the search for Daenerys in Essos put his investigations on hold.

"You asked for my judgment, Your Grace?", Eddard asks the Queen, who nods in response. "The last time I saw Ser Jaime, he attacked me on the street and killed my men."

"We were at war.", Jaime defends himself, after he has collected himself to some extent.

"Were we at war when you pushed my son out of the tower after he caught you fucking your sister?", asks Ned, visibly angry. Surprised murmur goes through the hall and Jaime looks around nervously.

“I think we should execute the Kingslayer.”, Lord Yohn Royce suggests.

"It is not predetermined that Jaime will be executed.", interjects Bran.

"He crippled you, Bran.", says Catelyn, stunned. It breaks her heart to see her son so emotionless.

"It had to happen. That was the only way I could become the three-eyed raven."

"Bran is right. Jaime will die, but not now. Not here in the north.", agrees Visenya with Bran.

“What does the King in the North say about it?”, Daenerys asks and looks at Jon.

“We need every man we can get, even if he made my brother a cripple.”, Jon says after some hesitation.

“Very well.”, Daenerys decides, after looking to her niece, who nods.

Tyrion exhales sharply in relief. Grey Worm picks up Jaime’s sword, walks over to him, handing it over aggressively.

“Thank you, Your Grace.”, Jaime thanks and turns to Ned and Catelyn.

"I don't regret many things I've done, but pushing Bran out of the tower was one of the things I deeply regret. Men do incredibly stupid things when they're in love."

"Take care of yourself, Ser Jaime. You don't have many friends here in Winterfell.", Eddard warns him, whereupon the Lannister nods in understanding.

"Everyone except the Lords should leave the room. There is a lot we have to talk about.", orders Jon, whereupon Jaime, Daenerys advisors and Brienne leave the room.

"My Lords. I know you have a lot of questions. This meeting was called to give you answers.", Eddard Stark begins after all the lords of the little houses have gathered.

"I think I speak for everyone when I ask you where in seven hells have you been all these years. The last thing we heard from you, Lord Stark, was that you were beheaded as a traitor in King`s Landing, what made your son call the banners and go to war against the Lannisters.", says Lyanna, then turning to Robb. "And you. Robb Stark, it was said you were murdered at the Red Wedding. Just like Lady Stark, your wife and dozens of other Northmen."

"Visenya, my niece, rescued Sansa and me from Kingslanding and made sure that the Freys and Boltons failed to kill my son and wife."

"Where were you when Ramsay Bolton tyrannized the north? You abandoned us and betrayed the north when you turned your back on us.", Lord Manderly says accusingly.

"To prevent another war with the Lannisters, we have withdrawn to Visenya's castle."

“You and your family abandoned us. Your bastard son fought for us, when we needed him. The North remembers. He is our king now. Or at least he was.”, Lyanna blames Ned.

"I admit. It was selfish to put my family above the north, but this was the only way I could prevent more northerners from being killed by the blades of Lannister swords.", Ned defends himself and Robb continues.

"You lost many family members and friends when you went to war for me and I am truly sorry. I cannot undo what I did, but if my word means anything to you, I promise you that I'll fight for the north. Until my last breath. As you would have done for me."

"Are you going to be appointed king again? You have more rights to this title than your bastard brother.", asks Lord Cerwyn outrageous and Robb sights.

"There is no reason for me to be king anymore, with my family save and my father alive. With all due respect, my lords. You chose Jon as your king, not because he has a right, but because he deserves it. He fought for you when I wasn't here. I thought the north is more loyal."

"We have made him king. Against our will he sailed to Dragonstone and bent his knee.", another lord points out.

Jon hits his palms on the table and stands up.

"The Night King tore down the wall. The army of the dead will soon reach these gates and Cersei has declared war on us again and you have nothing better to do than worry about some titles. Daenerys is our queen. She lost one of her dragons when she came to my aid and she turned her back on Cersei to fight side by side with us for the living. What else should I do so that you finally shut up and don't worry if I am a king, or not.", Jon says furiously with anger. "Asking her if she wants to marry me?"

Daenerys chokes on her own spit and Visenya has to chuckle her laugh. Ned and Robb look at Jon in shock and Catelyn frowns. After a few seconds, Jon realizes what he just said and he swallows hard. He carefully glances at Daenerys, who has regained her composure and looks at him in surprise.

"I do not want to hear another word on this subject. The meeting is over.", says Jon hastily and leaves the hall. Daenerys exits short after him to follow Jon. The lords also leave the hall. Dissatisfied and angry.

"Why not? The Targaryens wed brothers and sisters for hundreds of years. They are aunt and nephew.", says Visenya and casually crosses her legs at the table.

"Very funny, Visenya.", says Ned and rolls his eyes.

Visenya grins, gets up and leaves the hall. Sooner or later, they will know. It isn't her task to tell the Starks that Jon and Daenerys are in love. Jon has to tell them himself.

At the latest when Daenerys notices the change in her body.

Chapter Text

"Jon, please wait.", Daenerys calls out as she follows her agitated nephew to the Godswood.

Jon stops in front of the red and white tree. Daenerys stops next to him, breathing heavily.

"Just so you know. What you said earlier ... I know you weren't serious.", Daenerys reassures him.

"That`s the point. I meant what I said.", Jon admits and Daenerys gasps in surprise. Jon turns to her. "I want to marry you. Not to please the lords, but because I love you, Dany."

"Jon, your family ..."

"I don't care what they think. I fell in love with you the day I saw you for the first time. You are the most beautiful, most impressive, stubborn and strongest woman I know. Every cell in my body longs after you when you're not around. I'm crazy about you in every possible way. I've loved a woman before you, or at least I thought I loved her. But my feelings for you are a thousand times stronger. I want to spend my whole life with you.", Jon admits and kneels in front of Daenerys. Surprised, she claps her hands over her mouth and tears form in her eyes. However, one thing occurs to her again.

"But, I cannot bear you children, Jon.", she interjects, looking uncomfortably at her fingers.

"I've thought I was a bastard for most of my life and I vowed never to have children to save them a life as bastards. I don't need children to be happy. I only need you. So, Daenerys Stormborn of House Targaryen, rightful heir to the Iron Throne, rightful Queen of the Andals and the First Men, Protector of the Seven Kingdoms, the Mother of Dragons, the Khaleesi of the Great Grass Sea, the Unburnt, the Breaker of Chains … have I forgot something?", he asks nervous, whereupon Daenerys giggles touched. “Will you marry me?”, he finally asks the question of questions and waits for her answer.

Daenerys dismisses all her doubts and nods hastily.

"Yes," she replies. "Yes, I do."

Jon jumps up in delight, picks her up, and twirls her around, before putting his lips lovingly on hers. There are a lot of things that the two haven't considered, but at the moment the only thing that matters is that they love each other. They can worry about this later.

The loving kiss quickly becomes wilder and more passionate. When they hear a throat clearing, the two break away with a jerk.

"Get a room. You can't just fuck next to the Godswood and dishonor it."

"Visenya.", Jon admonishes his prudish sister.

"Ned and Catelyn will be here in a moment.", reports Visenya and gets up from the stone on which she has previously settled. "Oh, before I forget. Congratulations on the engagement."

"Thank you.", Daenerys says and looks happily at Jon, who returns her loving look before looking back at his sister.

"Somehow I feel like you already knew."

"That's the difference between us. I know a lot of things and you know nothing, Jon Snow."

"Very funny.", says Jon, huffed, whereupon the two silver-haired women laugh.

"Are you pouting?", asks Visenya and laughs even more when Jon gives her a deadly look. “Come on. Let`s go back to the castle.”, she prompts Daenerys and Jon after she sees Catelyn and Ned enter the garden.

Together they leave the Godswood.

.

On the next day, a horn is blared and the gates are opened as the remaining members of the nights watch return with Tormund Giantsbane and Beric Dondarrion. Samwell greets his old friend Dolorous Edd who has just returned. Jon sees them and quickly heads over. Before he can embrace Edd, Tormund hugs him first.

“My little crow.”, Tormund chuckles.

“I thought we'd lost you.”, Jon says, glad to see his friend alive.

“Almost.”, Tormund answers and Jon turns to hug Edd. He then turns to Beric and shakes his hand.

“How did you find each other?”, Jon asks.

“We met up at the Last Hearth.”, Edd reports and looks to Tormund.

“The dead got there first.”, Tormund says and Jon looks at his feet. Another house was exterminated.

“The Umbers?”, he asks.

“Fighting for the Night King now.”, Beric answers.

“We had to travel around them to get here. Whoever's not here now is with them.”, Tormund says sadly.

“How long do we have?”, asks Jon, afraid of the answer.

“Before the sun comes up tomorrow.”, Tormund suspects, whereupon Jon looks at Sam with a concerned look. Tormund looks back over his shoulder, surveying his surroundings.

“The big woman still here?”

.

In the library, a large table has a map of Winterfell laid out over it, with various markers placed outside the castle. The Unsullied are organized in three groups in the middle outside the front of the. To either side of the Unsullied are markers representing the Northerners and in front are the Dothraki. Facing towards all these troops are markers representing the Army of the Dead, these markers far outnumber the allies of Winterfell. Standing around the table is Eddard, Robb, Arya, Jon, Sam, Theon, Alys, Brienne, Jaime, Beric, Tormund, Davos, Lyanna, Royce, Qhono, Grey Worm, Varys, Daenerys, Visenya, Cedric, Jorah and Tyrion. Bran is seated behind Jon.

“They're coming. We have dragonglass and Valyrian steel. But there are too many of them. Far too many. Our enemy doesn't tire. Doesn't stop. Doesn't feel. We can't beat them in a straight fight.”

“So, what can we do?”, Jamie asks.

“The Night King made them all. They follow his command. If he falls, getting to him may be our best chance.”, Jon suggests.

“If that's true, he'll never expose himself.”, Jaime throws in.

“Yes, he will.”, Bran says, whereupon everyone in the room turns to look at Bran. “He'll come for me. He's tried before, many times, with many Three-Eyed Ravens.”

“Why? What does he want?”, Samwell asks, slightly shocked.

“An endless night. He wants to erase this world, and I am its memory.”

“That's what death is, isn't it? Forgetting. Being forgotten. If we forget where we've been and what we've done, we're not men anymore. Just animals. Your memories don't come from books. Your stories aren't just stories. If I wanted to erase the world of men, I'd start with you.”, Sam says, after looking in Bran eyes.

“How will he find you?”, Tyrion asks interested.

“His mark is on me.”, Bran says and lifts the cuff of his right arm, revealing a red mark in the shape of a hand. “He always knows where I am.”

“We'll put you in the crypt, where it's safest.”, Jon decides.

“No. We need to lure him into the open before his army destroys us all. I'll wait for him in the Godswood.”

“You want us to use you as bait?”, asks Eddard horrified and looks at his son in disbelief.

“We're not leaving you alone out there.”, Robb decides.

“He won't be. I'll stay with him. With the Ironborn.”, Theon says, then he turns to Bran. “I took this castle from you. Let me defend you now.”

Theon hasn't had time to apologize to the Starks personally. He exhales in relief when Eddard nods gratefully and Robb does not look at him with hatred, even if it is for a short time.

“We'll hold off the rest of them for as long as we can.”, Ser Davos says and looks at Tyrion.

“When the time comes, Ser Davos and I will be on the walls, to give you the signal to light the trench.”, Tyrion says.

“Ser Davos is perfectly capable of waving a torch on his own. You'll be in the crypt.”, Daenerys orders, whereupon Tyrion looks shocked and turns to her.

“Your Grace, I have fought before, I can do it again. Alongside the men and women risking their lives.”

“There are thousands of them and only one of you. You can't fight as well as they can, but you can think better than any of them. You're here because of your mind. If we survive, I'll need it.”, Daenerys tells Tyrion, who nods.

“The dragons should give us an edge in the field.”, Davos says full of hope.

“If they're in the field, they're not protecting Bran. We need to be near him. Not too near, or the Night King won't come. But close enough to pursue him when he does.”, notes Jon.

“Dragonfire will stop him?”, Arya asks Bran.

“I don't know. No one's ever tried.”, the man in the wheelchair admits.

“Dragonfire can`t stop the Night King.”, says Visenya, who has remained in the background until now. Everyone looks at her, surprised. "Everywhere he goes the hottest flame goes out. You can only kill him with Dragonglass or Valyrian steel. He will use Viserion`s and Vhagario's body to keep Drogon, Rhaegal and Meraxo away from the battlefield."

"You already know how it will end.", Bran realizes. "You know what's going to happen. How it's going to happen."

"I've always known it, at least until I changed the course of things. Now everything changed."

“We're all going to die.”, Tormund says and turns to look at Brienne. “But at least we die together.”

“Let's get some rest.”, Jon decides and everyone begins to leave the library as Jon and Daenerys remain at the table.

“Your Grace.”, Jon says with a meaningful look and Daenerys nods, understanding.

Jon then exits along with almost everyone else.

"Do you have time for me, Gaius? I would like to discuss something with you.", Visenya asks, whereupon the Maester turns to her in surprise.

"Of course, Your Grace.", he replies and follows Visenya out onto the terrace, which gives a good overview of the inner courtyard.

Visenya leans thoughtfully against the railing and looks at Daenerys, who is talking to Grey Worm in the courtyard.

"How can I help you?", asks Gaius and follows Visenya's gaze.

"It's about Daenerys."

"Your aunt? What about her?"

"I have known you all my life Gaius and I trust you completely. What I am telling you now is of the utmost importance. Nobody is allowed to find out about it. Many lives are at stake."

"You can trust me, Visenya. I will remain silent and take the secret, whatever it may be, to the grave if it has to.", Gaius promises her and Visenya can see in his warm, sincere eyes, that he is serious.

"She is pregnant.", Visenya whispers to him, whereupon his eyes widen.

"B ... but I thought she is a barren?", he stammered.

"It looks like Jon has done a miracle. You can't imagine how important the child under Daenerys heart is.", Visenya mumbles and smiles slightly. "It has to be protected by all cost. You and I are the only ones who know and it should stay that way until the battle is over. Dark times will come."

"I will do everything in my power to help mother and child. I promise."

"Thank you. I know I can rely on you. When the time is right, you can tell her."

"Why don't you tell her?", the old man asks, confused, but Visenya just gives him a sad smile before she leaves the terrace.

Chapter Text

A bowstring creaks as an arrow is fired. It hits its target next to two other arrows previously shot. Arya holding a large bow in a dimly lit hallway. She lowers it and picks up another arrow. Gendry watches from a doorway. She fires the arrow and turns as Gendry walks up to her.

“That for me?”, Arya asks, slightly excited, whereupon Gendry raises a spear with a dragonglass head. Arya lays down her bow and takes the spear.

“This'll work.”, she says and looks at Gendry. She thought about something for a long time. “Were you with other girls in King's Landing?”, she asks all of a sudden and Gendry's eyes widen at the sudden change of subject. “Or after?” Gendry stammers indistinctly. “You don't remember?”, Arya asks and lifts an eyebrow, whereupon Gendry scoffs.

“Yes, I was.”, Gendry finally answers.

“One? Two? Twenty?”, Arya asks interested.

“Well, I didn't keep count.”

“Yes, you did.”, she notes and Gendry sighs.

“Three.”, he answers, whereupon Arya pauses and walks up to him.

“We're probably going to die soon. I want to know what it's like before that happens.”, Arya whispers seductively.

“Arya, I …“, Gendry stutters.

Arya inhales sharply as she pulls Gendry in and starts kissing him. They start undressing themselves and each other whilst still kissing. She pushes Gendry back onto a pile of bags as she takes off her top. Gendry, who is still just wearing his pants, notices a couple scars on Arya’s side.

“Take your own bloody pants off.”, Arya commands him, pulls her own pants off and climbs on top of Gendry and starts kissing him.

.

"The time will come soon. The dead will run over us.", jokes Cedric and sits down next to Visenya on the bed. "Do you remember when you killed your first White Walker?"

"Yes, it seems like a lifetime ago.", Visenya replies absently and smiles slightly.

"We'll get through this too. Together. I'm sure of that. For the first time in the entire history of Westeros, Northerners, Dothraki, Unsullied and the Free Folk will fight side by side. We'll make history and when this is all over, we'll fly somewhere far away from Westeros and enjoy our life. Together.

"Sounds good.", Visenya replies and gives Cedric a smile that doesn't reach her eyes.

"What is it, Visenya? I know that something is bothering you."

"I know so many things. Secrets, truths and facts that the people themselves do not even know yet. `Knowledge is power`, Littlefinger once said to Cersei and she orders one of her knights to put a knife to his throat. `Power is power`, she said. Neither of them have a clue. Knowledge is a burden that will not only cost Varys his life."

"You saw something? You know how it will end.", Cedric realizes.

"I didn't see anything and that's exactly what scares me."

"What are you concerned about then?", Cedric asks confused.

"I know what will follow after the Long Night."

"That's good, isn't it?", asks Cedric hopefully. When he looks into Visenya's eyes, he sees that she is worried and … afraid. That is what he fears most. Visenya is never afraid. "Tell me."

"I can't and I don't want to.", she replies a little too harshly. When she sees Cedric's hurted expression, she strokes his cheek. "It's better if you don't know. Believe me."

"You don't have to endure this alone. I'm here for you."

"I know, but this time I can't share my knowledge with you. For your own safety."

"Come on. Let's get some sleep. War will come soon enough," suggests Visenya, whereupon the two lovers lie down on the fur-covered bed.

Visenya closes her eyes with a queasy feeling. When she opens it again, she is on a hillock. Endless hills with lush grass. Confused, Visenya looks around when she sees a woman standing some distance away. She turned her back on her. Her brown hair swayed gently in the wind. Interested Visenya goes to the woman. Just before she gets to her, she turns around.

"Mother?", Visenya asked in surprise, finding herself face to face with deep brown eyes that matched hers.

"My beautiful, brave daughter.", greets the barely aged former Lady of Winterfell.

"What am I doing here?", asks Visenya and looks around. "Is this a vision?"

"Yes and no. The world we live in is permeated with magic. Darker and lighter. Good and evil. I wanted to see you one last time, my child, before you make your way down into the darkness."

"You know what I'm going to do?", Visenya asks in surprise.

"Your destiny was already set when you were laid in your uncle's arms."

"Is it right what I'm going to do?", Visenya asks uncertainly.

"Only you can answer that."

"I know it's the only way to protect the people I love, but I'm afraid of what it will do to me. I'm afraid of losing myself."

"I know. The decision you made will change everything. Life has given you many challenges since you were a child, but you have overcome them all. You will find the strength you need to survive this. I believe in you as much as I believe in your brother."

"I wish we grew up together. As a family, Jon, you, me and father."

"I know. That's what I wanted so much for both of you, but then you wouldn't be the people you are today."

"I hate leaving them all alone when they need me the most."

"You are exactly where you have to be."

"That's what the three-eyed raven said to Jon, too.", Visenya says suspiciously.

"Yes, that's right. But unlike him, I really mean it. You will go into the darkness, but only to save everyone and not to pursue your selfish ambitions."

"What will happen to my connection to Meraxo?"

"He won't be strong enough."

"I'll have to separate from him for him to survive." Visenya realizes sadly, to which Lyanna nods sadly. "That's what I feared. How am I supposed to live with the thought of losing ties with my children."

"You will not lose them, Visenya. They will always be your children."

"I don't know if I'm strong enough to do it, mother.", Visenya admits, looking down at the floor in embarrassment.

Lyanna smiles sadly and gently cups her chin to make her daughter look at her.

"You are the strongest person I know. You are a wolf and a dragon."

"I have to be more than that."

"You already are. Do you know why I chose to name you Visenya?", Lyanna asks, whereupon Visa shakes her head. "You're like her. You're a warrior. You're stubborn and brave. Many didn't like Visenya because she didn't fit the image of a perfect woman, but many forget that she did make a formidable leader. She was clever and knew how to get her ends, but she was also cruel and strict. She had a darkness in her, but would not let it overcome her. Visenya was more dragon than Aegon and Rhaenys could ever be. Like you. What you will do, no one before you has dared to do. But you will find the strength you need to do what needs to be done. Yes, it will change you, and yes, you will have to fight it every day, but I'm sure ... no, I know, you'll make it."

"Thank you, mother.", Viseny thanks and takes a deep breath. Suddenly the sky darkens and the land around them freezes.

"He's here. I wished we had more time.", Lyanna says worriedly. "Farewell Visenya. Never forget how much I love you."

"I won't. Goodbye, mother.", Visenya says goodbye and hugs Lyanna one last time.

The next moment she opens her eyes and finds herself face to face with Cedric who seems to be trying to wake her up.

"They're here.", he says when he sees Visenya awake.

Visenya stands up and puts on her armor. Before Cedric leaves the room, Visenya pulls him towards her one last time and kisses him. She puts all her feelings into that one kiss and draws Cedric's scent deep into her lungs one last time.

"I love you, Cedric. Don't forget that.", she whispers before tearing herself away from him and leaving the bedchamber so he doesn't see her tears.

.

Daenerys turns a corner in the crypts of Winterfell as she sees Jon staring at a statue of his mother, Lyanna Stark. She walks up to him. He glances at her and smiles as she walks closer. She holds his arm as they both look at the statue together.

"Is that Lyanna Stark?", asks Daenerys and looks at Jon, who nods. "Visenya told me she was beautiful. Stubborn, wild and a freedom-loving soul."

"Sounds like someone we know.", jokes Jon, causing Daenerys to giggle.

"Visenya has the heart of a dragon and the soul of a wolf. Just like you.", Daenerys breathes and snuggles closer to Jon.

"I wish we'd got married before the Long Night. It's only a matter of time before the army of the dead show up and we go to a war. We don't know if we'll survive.", Jon whispers in her ear.

“We will.”

"How will you know that?"

"I just know. As soon as I allow the thought of losing you, my fear would paralyze me.", Daenerys admits. "I'm scared, Jon."

"I'm scared too. I'm not afraid of death, but of losing you.", Jon admits.

"You won't lose me. Neither will I lose you.", Daenerys says, while caressing his cheek.

"I love you, Dany. Don't forget that.", Jon says, with so much love in his voice.

"I love you too.", Daenerys answers and kisses him, before she cuddles in his arms.

Suddenly a horn blares and both turn around. They look at each other, before they exit the crypts and walk behind the battlements and stand next to Tyrion as the three stare out over the wall. Visenya and Cedric appear next to them.

“Form up! Get yourselves back!”, a man shouts.

Jon nods at Daenerys and Visenya and the three Targaryens quickly exit. Tyrion watches but turns his attention back over the wall.

Chapter Text

Everyone prepares for the army of the dead. Lords, Ladys and Commanders shout orders and soldiers take their positions. Tyrion walks somberly through the busy courtyard. He picks up a bag and slings it over his shoulder. Bran rolls by, pushed by Theon and accompanied by Alys Karstark and some northern soldiers. They walk through the courtyard on their way to the Godswood. Warmed by their fires, men stand in anticipation, eyes scanning the darkness. Davos and Marvin deliver a bucket of arrows. Eddard, Robb, Catelyn, Rickon, Sansa and Arya stare into the darkness. Eddard looks worried at his family. Their eyes turn upwards in response to Drogon's screech. Drogon, Rhaegal and Meraxo fly overhead. A company of Unsullied warriors double march to join the formation. The entire Unsullied company stands at attention in disciplined rows and columns. Ahead of them stands a line of catapults, with stones and braziers by their sides. In front of the siege weapons, the entire Dothraki horde is mounted and waiting, swords drawn. The Northmen also stand at the ready, fronted by Jaime and Brienne. Grey Worm stands in command of the Unsullied. Tormund, Cedric and Beric helm the motley wilding force. Sandor and Gendry push their way to the front to join them and Edd. Sam joins them.

“Oh, for fuck's sake. You took your time.”, Edd greets his friend.

Horses snort and whinny. A mounted Jorah waits, seasoned and determined, yet also nervous, together with Samuel and Sandry, who became the secret order from their queen, to protect the old bear by all cost. Ghost, Grey Wind, Nymeria and Akoro stand nearby. Shaggydog, Storm, Winter, Snow and Ice are protecting the people who are hiding in the crypts. The wind blows and the darkness reveals nothing.

The three Targaryens land near Winterfell on a mountaintop to overview the battlefield. Jon walks by Drogon, Rhaegal and Meraxo. They growl and look tense in the darkness. He joins Daenerys and Visenya to survey the great army that waits before Winterfell. The moon shines through the clouds above.

The Starks look out. The wind whistles. A lone rider approaches slowly amidst the darkness, catching the eye of Davos. The rider is Melisandre. She silently leads her mount to stop in front of Jorah, Samuel and Sandry. She looks at the Dothraki.

“Do you speak their tongue?”, she asks Jorah, who nods.

“Tell them to lift their swords.”, she orders and Jorah obeys.

The Dothraki respond by raising their weapons. Jorah returns his apprehensive gaze to Melisandre. She nudges her horse forward and stops next to Qhono, the nearest Dothraki. She clasps his curved weapon in her left hand, her index finger pressed against the cutting edge. She concentrates as she offers an incantation. After she made a spell in Valyrian, the blade she holds ignites in flame. Quickly, the other raised weapons blaze with flame as well, surprising the Dothraki who hold them. They yell in celebration of the magic.

The Starks look on in amazement. The flames travel in a wave through the entire Dothraki force, lighting up the night. All who see the spectacle marvel at the sea of fire and the cheers of the Dothraki.

Jorah nods in approval to Melisandre. She rides quietly past the Dothraki force, Jorah turns his mount and draws Heartsbane with renewed vigor. Melisandre reaches the last of the Dothraki and turns to ride in front of the Dothraki.

“Valar Morghulis.”, she greets, when she passes by Grey Worm.

“Valar Dohaeris.”, he replies.

Four soldiers lift the great beam that secures the gate, after Ser Davos gave the order. The doors open and Melisandre rides in. Davos and Melisandre meet at a raised walkway. She lowers her hood and approaches while Davos stares.

“There's no need to execute me, Ser Davos. I'll be dead before the dawn.”

Davos gives way as Melisandre walks past. He will never forgive her, that the witch causes Stannis downfall and that she wanted to burn an innocent child. She pauses, half way up the stairs, where she can see Arya atop the ramparts. In the distance, a soldier yells and the Dothraki ululate, while the red priestess walks on.

The mounted Dothraki, spur their horses forward into a charge, yelling wildly. The Starks exchange a look. The Dothraki horde gallops and shouts. Jorah rides among them.

Suddenly there is a loud roar and the next moment the first row of the army of the dead catches fire.

Jon and Daenerys turn to Visenya only to look into her empty white eyes. After Baleria has lit the entire first row, the soldiers standing in front of the castle see how many dead they face. The Dothraki horde stops as Baleria flies to them, lands and roars at them. With a sharp breath, Visenya's eyes switch back to their deep brown.

"That wasn't the plan.", Daenerys confronts her niece.

"Be grateful. I just prevented your whole Dothraki horde from being slaughtered. We still need them. All of them. We have to prevent the dead from encircling us.", Visenya orders and climbs onto Meraxo. “Come on. Soon a heavy snowstorm will reach us and prevent us from helping our armies.”

Jon and Daenerys take a look before they also mount their dragons and follow Visenya onto the battlefield. The three dragons begin to spit fire at the army of the dead. Northern soldiers light the stones on the catapults and trebuchets.

While Visenya and Daenerys set the army's flanks on fire, Jon takes care of the middle. Baleria takes on the back rows. Encircled, the dead begin to run towards the armies standing in front of Winterfell. The dragons delay the advance, but there are simply too many.

Little later, the undead crash into their cadre at full speed and the battle begins. The undead land gruesome blows to the Northmen.

Daenerys and Visenya ascend as the inferno below them burn. They survey the battle as they look for their next line of attack.

The rush of wights continues. Tormund dispatches some of the wights while behind him, the dragons lay down crossing walls of fire.

Rhaegal flies past the Starks. Further away, Drogon and Meraxo spew forth an arc of flame. Baleria joins in. The Starks take in the power of the dragons and the enormity of the undead army. Jon is a real Targaryen now, Ned thinks.

While Visenya stays near the battlefield, Jon and Daenerys fly side-by-side, away from Winterfell. Where the plain meets the woods, Jon sees the mounted White Walkers. The two exchange a look, then dive towards their enemy. The White Walkers notice the approaching dragons. Suddenly, a ferocious gale of blowing snow rolls out from the woods, enveloping Jon and Daenerys. Jon loses his bearings and fights to remain aloft. Daenerys rips through the undead below with Drogon's fiery breath, then struggles against the great storm. The storm, Visenya warns us about is here, Daenerys thinks worried.

Eddard doesn`t like the way the battle is going.

“Get down to the crypt.”, he orders his family.

“I'm not abandoning our people. I can fight as well as Robb and you.”, Arya insists.

“You are going down the crypts, together with your mother, Sansa and Rickon.”, Eddard orders tense.

“No.”, Ayra answers. "I've been preparing for this for years."

"Come on Arya. This is no battle for you.", Catelyn tries to convince her stubborn daughter.

Reluctantly, Arya follows her mother and siblings.

On the Battlefield Jamie grunts as he dispatches another weight. Behind him, Podrick and Tormund fight their own foes. The arctic blast from the woods reaches them, and visibility worsens. Tormund looks up as Drogon, Meraxo and Baleria spew forth another fire line of devastation.

In the Goodwood, Theon stands by Bran, his bow strapped around his back. The roiling snow blast reaches them and creates a white out.

Catelyn, Sansa and Rickon walks down the steps to the crypt. Above them, the heavy door closes and is locked by a guard. They join the crowd of women, children and elderly who are huddling in the crypt, along with Tyrion, Varys, Gilly, Little Sam, Lyanna, Morana, Shireen, Septa Lominara and Maester Gaius. Catelyn takes stock of the crypt's atmosphere and locks eyes with her children.

"Where's Arya?", she asks panicked and wants to run to the locked door again.

"Nothing will happen to her, my lady.", Shireen assures her, causing Catelyn to pause. "Visenya saw it and she said I should tell you."

Catelyn takes a deep breath and tries pitifully to convince herself that Visenya is always right. Nothing will happen to Arya. She is a good fighter.

Back on the battlefield, the wind howls. The clouds of snow hang in the air. Rhaegal flies through. Jon holds on to the powerful dragon as they crash through snow-covered treetops. Rhaegal regains control of his flight, whereupon Jon gasps for breath. He looks behind him at the peril they escaped. Suddenly, Drogon and Meraxo appear from the snow cloud in front of them, on a collision course. The dragons bank to avoid one another. Daenerys grunts as she is nearly thrown from Drogon. Jon strains to check that Daenerys and his sister are safe as the dragons pull side by side. The dragons struggle to fly against the wind and snow, and the three Targaryens are constantly tested by the unpredictable and jerky flight. Once they have settled, Daenerys looks down through the blowing snow to take in the battle. The undead army continues to surge forward with inhuman stamina. Many give the order to retract.

.

“Open the gate!”, Lyanna Mormont orders, standing with her soldiers.

“Open the gate!”

“Let us in!”

“Open the gate!”

“Open the gate!”

Four soldiers remove the crossbeam and open the mighty gate. The injured and weary Northern army rushes in noisily.

“Keep moving!”

“Come on!”

“Keep moving, fast!”, Lyanna shouts.

“To your posts!”

“Go!”

“Keep moving!”

“Come on, run! Keep moving!”

Outside the gates, Grey Worm watches as the Northmen retreat through the gate. The undead battle with the Unsullied nearby.

“Protect the retreat!”, he orders his man in Valyrian. The Unsullied fend of the ferocious attacks for the undead. “Stand your ground!” As one, the Unsullied take a defensive stance, spears pointed forward. The undead swarm into them with great force, but the Unsullied slow their progress.

Men continue to pour through the gate. Just beyond, the Northmen fall back behind the battalions of Unsullied, who stand at attention. Sounds of the battle beyond ring through the blasts of wind and snow.

Jon and Daenerys fight to fly against the storm.

“Dany!”, Jon yells, but she cannot hear him. Jon guides Rhaegal to bank to the right.

Bran sits pensively. Above, he can see Rhaegal fighting to hover before landing heavily on the wall surrounding the Godswood. Jon looks around, searching for any sight of Daenerys or Visenya.

Northmen flee in great numbers to the gate. Only a handful of lines of Unsullied remain, but the endless waves of undead continue. The Unsullied are near the end of their defensive effort. Soldiers run as fast as they can towards the gate. Flaming arrows shoot through the air above them.

“Move!”, someone yells.

Tormund takes down a wight with a mighty blow. The man beside him does the same, but is felled by an arrow right after. The snarling undead wrestle through the wooden palisades. Arya takes careful aim and shoots a flaming arrow, felling the wight pursuing one of Cedric. He turns around in surprise, looks up to Arya, then back at the felled creature. He swings his sword anew.

The Unsullied begin to fall back.

“Retreat!”

“Retreat!”

“Come on!”

“Come on!”

Grey Worm runs forward to take stock of the battle. Panting, he watches the undead making slow but constant progress against the last lines of the Unsullied.

“Light the trench! Light the trench!”, the commander of the Unsullied orders.

Davos picks up two torches and waves them to signal Grey Worm's command.

Grey Worm continues to pant as he watches the ferocious undead army battle against the Unsullied and the Northmen in front of him. Deciding that it is time, he grabs a rope and pulls with all his might, triggering the collapse of the wood that spans the trench in front of him. A fury of arrows descends from the ramparts behind him.

Davos continues to signal with his torches. The dragons fly through the turbulent clouds of snow Davos lowers his torches.

“They can't see us.”, he realizes and throws down the torches in frustration.

“Light the trenches!”

Archers shoot flaming torches at the palisade in the trenches. The harsh wind blows out the flames before the stakes catch fire.

Suddenly, out of nowhere Baleria appears and spit fire on the trenches, but it doesn`t work well. Frustrated, she grumbles and disappears again in the storm. It is not her task to lit the trenches. This task requires a stronger magic than dragon fire.

The seemingly endless undead army continues to surge forward, snarling and growling.

Jorah, Sandry, Samuel, Beric, Tormund and Sandor give way to the Unsullied, who march double time into a defensive formation. They align their shields to form a barrier and a battle stance. Melisandre emerges from the gate. The Unsullied captain gives a command, and the soldiers stand at attention, creating an aisle for the red priestess. She walks to the trench and places her hand on a frozen log, eyes closed.

“Lord of Light, cast your light upon us. Lord of Light, defend us. For the night is dark and full of terrors!”, Melisandre chants.

Jorah and some Unsullied fight back the charging undead. Flaming arrows streak down from the ramparts into the darkness beyond the trench. The growls of the undead creep out of the darkness.

“Lord of Light, cast your light upon us! Lord of Light, defend us! For the night is dark and full of terrors!”

The soldiers stand their ground, helping to protect the red woman. The wights get dangerously close to her, who opens her eyes at the threat.

“Lord of Light, cast your light upon us! Lord of Light, defend us! For the night is dark and full of terrors!”, Melisandre chants desperately.

A wight leaps over the trench to grapple Melisandre. Just in time, sparks explode between her hands and the log. The oil in the trench quickly ignites, consuming the attacking ghoul and those behind it. The trench erupts into a blinding wall of flame, stopping the swarm of undead attackers. They shriek in surprise and pain. For now, Winterfell is protected from the charge.

The glow of the flaming trench reaches Visenya, Daenerys and Jon, who fly high above. Arya and Davos watch as Daenerys directs Drogon to incinerate a swath of undead beyond the flaming trench.

Meanwhile in the crypts, a baby cries, but otherwise the crypt is quiet.

“You must try not to worry yourself.”, a woman says.

The Starks, Varys, Shireen, Missandei and Morana, who holds Lyanna in her arms, sit apart from the others. The residents of Winterfell wait with concern on their faces.

“At least we're already in a crypt.”, Varys sights tense.

“If we were up there, we might see something everyone else is missing. Something that makes a difference.”, the dwarf says and Varys scoffs.

“What? Remember the Battle of Blackwater? I brought us through the Mud Gate.”

“And got your face cut in half.”, Varys counters.

“And it made a difference. If I was out there right now...”, Tyrion wonders.

“You'd die. There's nothing you can do.”, Catelyn says.

"Thank you for your concern, Lady Stark. I didn't expect that after you accused me of sending an assassin to murder Bran."

"Those were different times, my lord. Everyone can be wrong. But that doesn't mean that I will ever forgive your family for what they did to my family."

"Speaking of them. How did Visenya manage to get Eddard, Sansa and Arya out of Kingslanding, unnoticed. I have to admit, until the first time I saw her on Dragonstone, I had never heard of her."

"She is more powerful than you think and she knows how to hide. She knows how to survive.", Catelyn replies and when she sees Morana's surprised look she continues. "I also had to understand that first."

"You know what? I have the feeling that we will survive this. Somehow.", says Tyrion ethically. "Daenerys will overthrow Cersei and ascend the throne. And then, like Davos used to say ‘what if the Seven Kingdoms, for once in their whole shit history, were ruled by a just woman and an honorable man?’. It wouldn't even be an arranged marriage. It looks like the king in the north managed to twist the head of our queen and vice versa.”, Tyrion jokes and Sansa spits out her drink.

"Jon and Daenerys? I don't think they want to get married. He's...", Sansa replies.

"A bastard.", Catelyn interrupts her daughter with a warning look. "Enough now. Hundreds of our people are fighting to survive out there. Let us pray for them instead of worrying about what will come next.", she says sternly, surprised that she suddenly feels the need to protect Jon's true identity.

The wild whips through the Godswood. Theon continues to guard Bran, bow strapped to his back.

“They lit the trench. Bran I just want you to know... I wish... The things I did…”, Theon stutters.

“Everything you did brought you where you are now. Where you belong. Home.”

“I'm going to go now.”

“Go where?”, Theon asks confused, but Brans eyes already go white.

A raven's eyes go white as Bran wargs into the bird. The ravens caw as they take flight from the tree, towards the fire wall. Drogon, Meraxo and Baleria spit forth a blaze of fire into the undead army, just in front of the conspiracy of ravens. They fly past the battle, beyond Winterfell, and climb high into the dark sky. They hear the slow flaps of a great dragon, then come upon the Night King riding Viserion. The undead Vhagario besides them. The Night King extends his hand in command, which crackles like freezing water.

Suddenly, the undead army stands motionless behind the flaming trench. One wight steps calmly forward into the trench, falling forward. Then another joins him, and another still. They pile on top of one another at a quickening pace.

Riding Rhaegal, Jon watches the onslaught as the undead army restarts their siege. Hearing flapping above, he looks upwards and sees the undead Viserion hovering, with the Night King astride him. Viserion lets out a shriek. Jon spurs Rhaegal and they fly away.

.

Lyanna Mormont finds her feet, panting and in great pain. Her face is streaked with blood. She lets out a battle cry and charges the giant, wielding her war axe. The giant turns to meet her assault. He reaches down and grabs her by the chest, His vice-like grip chokes the breath from Lyanna. He squeezes harder and her ribs crack. He raises Lyanna up to his face, taunting her as he crushes the life from her. Blood pours from her mouth as she pants for breath. The one-eyed giant growls at her and draws her closer. The brave girl yells, and frees an arm to stabs the undead giant in his good eye with her dagger. Her strength leaves her, but the giant crumbles to the ground, shattering into broken shards. The undead continue to pour through the broken gate.

Above the battlefield the Night King flies on Viserion and Vhagario on their side through the swirling clouds. The undead dragon roars. Daenerys and Drogon are in pursuit followed by Jon and Rhaegal. The clouds of snow and gusting winds impede the pursuit.

Daenerys and Jon fly higher, breaking the clouds to find the moon's illumination. Their dragons hover while Daenerys and Jon scan the skies for a sign of the Night King. An eruption of blue flame bursts from the clouds below Jon. Jon and Rhaegal veer away as the Night King and Viserion fly directly upwards, belching blue flame at Daenerys and Drogon, who try to speed upwards and away. Daenerys strains against the blue conflagration threatens to swallow them.

Meanwhile, Jon and Rhaegal tailspin out of control and fight to regain control of their path. Viserion unleashes another blue blast. Vhagario joins him. Drogon weaves an evasive path while Daenerys holds on for dear life. The Night King and Viserion turn away and rocket back towards the earth. Jon and Rhaegal finally stem their downward spiral. They come to a hover next to Daenerys and Drogon, and look anew for signs of the Night King. Jon and Daenerys exchange a glance, then direct their dragons to dive back into the clouds beneath them.

In den Godswood, Theon hears the wights snarling in the distance.

“Here they come!”, Theon shouts, whereupon the soldiers ready their bows. Shadows streak through the snow-covered trees.

“Steady, lads.” Soldiers grab arrows and set them aflame. They ready their bows.
“Steady now. Make every shot count.” Shadows flit among the trees.

“Over there!”, someone yells. The snarling grows louder and the wights charge out of the woods, frenzied and in great numbers. “There!”, another man shouts and shoot.

Winterfell is surrounded by a moat of fire. Great swaths of field continue to burn where Drogon laid waste to the undead. The Night King, Viserion and Vhagario swoop down. The dragons expel powerful blue flame that destroys a great turret of the castle wall and they speed across. The Night King looks backward to savor the damage, allowing Jon and Rhaegal to intercept them. Rhaegal clutches Viserion in his claws, and the two dragons engage in a mid-air melee of claws and fangs. Vhagario wants to help them, but suddenly a big shadow grabs him and tear him from the sky. In a tangle of snapping mouths and sharp claws, Baleria and the undead Vhagario wallow on the ground. Even if Vhagario is much smaller than Baleria, he manages to keep the larger dragon in check through his agility and aggression.

In the Godwood, Theon and the Northern soldiers unleash their arrows at the charging wights. Just above them, Rhaegal and the undead Viserion battle and roar, flying jerkily towards the earth. They bite and rake one another with massive claws, slicing great wounds into each other.

Viserion clamps his jaws on the neck of Rhaegal and sinks his teeth in. Jon struggles to hold on. The Night King readies a javelin. Viserion rips his jaws away, blue flame boiling in his mouth. He bites at Jon, who twists to evade the massive maw. Plumes of blue flame puff from Viserion as the dragon continues to snap and bite. Entangled, the dragons spiral downward. Then Drogon sweeps in, taking Viserion in his claws as he flies past. The Night King falls from his perch atop Viserion and plummets to the ground. Jon holds onto Rhaegal for dear life. Drogon chomps deeply into the neck of the undead Viserion with a sickening crunch. Meanwhile, Rhaegal reaches the ground with incredible speed and force and tries to transition from flying to running. The velocity is too great however, and the dragon ends up sliding on its belly, throwing Jon to the ground. Jon gathers himself, groaning and panting. Drogon roars above him, with Daenerys riding assuredly astride him.

The courtyard is strewn with piles of bodies. Tormund, Gendry, and Jorah fight on. Eddard and Robb fight side by side not far from them. Drogon roars above them. Jorah reacts, drawn to help his queen.

Drogon hovers above Winterfell. Daenerys looks down at the Night King. He stands in a field below them, looking up and seemingly unharmed by his fall.

“Dracarys.”, Daenerys says, even if she knows that it won`t work.

Drogon belches forth a column of flame that envelops the stoic Night King. Daenerys looks down at the massive fireball. Just below them, Jon limps towards the conflagration. Drogon ceases his attack and Daenerys watches as the fire dissipates. Jon gets as close as the heat will let him. The flames start to clear, revealing the Night King - confident, unhurt, and unphased. He stares up at Daenerys, smirking at his invulnerability. Daenerys is stunned. The Night King picks up the javelin beside him. Daenerys immediately spurs Drogon to flee. He hurls the javelin at the receding pair, which misses by inches.

Satisfied, the Night King strides through the smoldering grounds towards the Godswood. Jon draws Longclaw and sets after the Night King at a brisk run. The Night King walks calmly toward his intended target, but is quickly alerted to Jon's pursuit of him by the sound of Jon's footprints among the burning cinders. The Night King turns to look at him and Jon pauses. The Night King plants his feet and spreads his hands, beginning a silent invocation. Jon sets off towards him at a sprint, but has too much ground to cover. The eyes of the undead soldiers between them open, a vacant milky blue. Jon runs faster. Still fifty yards away, the slain soldiers sit up, then stand. Jon gets within ten yards of the Night King before the newly risen wights block his progress completely. Jon looks behind him to see scores of soldiers resurrected as undead warriors.

The Night King stands motionless and menacing. Jon gasps for breath. The Night King turns his back to Jon and walks away. Meanwhile, the crowd of the undead closes in slowly around Jon. With no other option, he hacks at the undead that surround him.

In the crypts, Gilly hears rustling and scratching behind her. She turns her head and gasps when a skeletal hand breaks through the wall of the crypt. A dried-up corpse twists out its tomb and wriggles onto the floor, snarling. Tyrion and Catelyn look up at the disturbance. Gilly rises to investigate, as does Catelyn. The emaciated corpse gets to its feet and in the next moment he is knocked to the ground by Shaggydog. Varys jumps up.

Behind the crowd, another wall starts to crumble. People stand and begin to scream in panic. Another Stark ancestor wriggles out of its tomb. The women and children flee to another part of the crypt. The wolves attack the wights, protecting the people.

“Come on! Come on! No! No, no, no!”

One woman falls in the panic, and is dragged backward into the dark catacomb. One of Naimas pups tries to help her, but fails.

Suddenly a purple shadow appears from nowhere and spits fire at the undead to protect the people in the crypt.

"Am I hallucinating or is that a little dragon that appeared out of nowhere?", asks Tyrion as people run away in panic. Others look in surprise at the little dragon who is burning one undead after the other. That must be Lyraxa, Jon`s dragon, Catelyn thinks, relieved that they are not completely defenseless, even if the dragon's flames minimized the oxygen in the underground room, causing everyone to cough.

In the Godwood, Theon and the Northern soldiers expertly take down the charging wights with flaming arrows. They are successfully fending off the onslaught, but the wights are getting dangerously close. Bran continues to warg with the crows and sits motionless in his chair.

On the battlefield outside of Winterfell, Jon parries the lumbering undead that threaten to surround him, vastly overwhelmed by the growing swarm. Suddenly, a wall of fire ignites just behind Jon, consuming the wights. Jon ducks and shields himself from the heat. The wights shriek and chitter as they collapse and die in the inferno. Jon catches his breath and looks up to see Daenerys and Drogon hovering above. The mighty dragon continues to spew forth hits flame breath. Jon squints as he peers into the destruction of the flames. Drogon and Meraxo lands down heavily behind him and roars.

“Bran!”, Jon shouts worried.

“I will take care of him.”, Visenya says and gives Meraxo the order to fly, when Jon nods thankfully.

Behind Drogon, more undead run at full tilt. Daenerys, watching Jon who runs to her, doesn't see the new assault until they are leaping on her dragon. They swarm on Drogon's tail and flanks. The dragon shakes and whips most of them off, but those that hang on stab mercilessly into Drogon's hide. The dragon roars and screeches as the frantic stabbing continues. Daenerys grunts as she tries to stay on Drogon in spite of his contortions. She is thrown to the ground as the wights continue to swarm over her winged son. The dragon labors and takes flight, undulating with great effort. The swarm of undead soldiers loses their grip as Drogon flies higher. Suddenly another dragon breathes fire at Drogon, whereupon the wigths fall from his back, burning. The dragon that came to the rescue of Drogon has snow-white scales. Drogon happily greets his mate with a grumble. That must be Hope, Daenerys thinks and smiles. Then her eyes find the battlefield, where wights crash into the ground in front of her. They are bloodied and broken, but unphased by the traumatic wounds. They snap their attention onto Daenerys. She crabs walks backward in fear. One gruesome, pale wight charges her, but is decapitated by Jon at the last second. He grabs Daenerys and leads her away. Jorah joining them.

In the Godwoods, Theon pants as he takes a few paces backward, notches a flaming arrow, and fires. He readies another arrow, but the wights are starting to get the upper hand, tackling the Northerners and encroaching on Bran, who continues to sit helpless while warging. Theon reaches for another arrow, but his bucket is empty. He bats down one wight with his bow, but is tackled by another. He squirms away, as the wight charges again. Theon yells as he raises a spear that impales the oncoming ghoul. Theon stands and leverages the wight away from Bran. He switches to hand-to-hand combat with the spear.

Jon and Jorah lead Daenerys through the burning wreckage of the battlefield outside the walls of Winterfell. Jorah chops down an undead Dothraki. Daenerys picks up a sword she sees on the ground. Visenya taught her some basic sword fighting techniques. Jorah gores another two wights and Jon cuts an undead Unsullied into pieces the undead start to run at them from all sides.

.

The reanimated Stark ancestors hiss and shriek as they attack those in the crypt. Women scream as they are clawed and chewed by the desiccated undead. The wolves and the little dragon try to prevent the people from getting slaughtered, but a few of the weights manage to get one or the other.

Visenya lands on the walls of the Godwood and dismount. Viserion roars above her and Visenya looks up and spins, trying to locate the dragon. Viserion attacks Meraxo and belches forth blue fire.

Jon, Daenerys and Jorah stave off their attackers among the burning rubble by the trenches. One wight stabs Jorah in the side before he and Jon work together to protect Daenerys. Jorah staggers to his knees, but regains his stance.

“Jorah!”, Daenerys yells worried.

When Jon helps Jorah to stand up, he gets stabbed by one of the wight. The fight continues.

“Jon!”

In the Godswood, Theon fights with all he has, slaying wights as they set upon him. Bran continues to warg. The Night King has reached the Godswood, and walks calmly towards Bran, leading a procession of White Walkers.

Jon, Jorah and Jon fight off the wights. One of the wights slashes a deep gash into Jorah's shoulder and another one cuts deep into Jon's thigh.

The Night King and the White Walkers stride through the Godswood. Theon lands one mortal blow after another to keep the charging wights away from Bran. He pauses, doubled over, exhausted and gasping for breath. The wights stop their attack and stand motionless. They part to allow the Night King to walk through. Bran returns to consciousness. Theon looks at the Night King, who stands motionless amid his followers.

“Theon.”, Bran says, whereupon Theon turns to look at Bran. “You're a good man. Thank you.”

Theon takes a breath. ‘Bran. Forgive me.’ A single tear falls from his eye, and he looks down. ‘Rickon. Forgive me.’ He turns back to face the Night King and gives the slightest of nods at his foe. ‘Sansa. Forgive me.’ The Night King takes a step forward. Theon readies his spear, then charges him with a battle yell. ‘Robb … My Brother. Forgive me.’ Theon runs the length of the clearing at full tilt. ‘Eddard … My father. Forgive me.’ In a single motion, the Night King side steps Theon's attack, grabs the spear, breaks it in two, and impales Theon through the gut. ‘Please. Forgive me.’ Theon grunts, looks up at the Night King's expressionless face, and falls quivering to his knees. ‘You were my real family. I am sorry.’ The Night King shifts his gaze to Bran. Theon falls and Bran looks down. Theon lies on the ground, the half spear piercing his stomach. He twitches and looks up at the Night King, who walks on, leaving Theon to draw his final breath as blood pours from his mouth. ‘I am sorry.’

On the field, Daenerys helps Jon and Jorah up from among the glowing, devastated landscape. A wight charges Daenerys from behind, and Jorah throws himself into the way. Before the undeath’s blade con penetrates Jorah's heart, Jon destroys him with a swing of his sword. Another wright attacks Jorah, who parries and forces his blade up into his chest. The two men take Daenerys protectively into their midst and fight the wight to protect the woman they both love.

In the Godswood, the Night King walks slowly towards Bran, who sits impassively waiting for him. Bran does not look at him as he closes the final steps to his wheelchair. The Night King stops just next to Bran's chair. Bran turns his head and looks up. Their eyes meet and they ponder one another. The Night King cocks his head slightly. They calmly look eye-to-eye. The Night King reaches back to unsheathe his weapon from its shoulder scabbard. A faint wind moves the hair of a nearby White Walker. As the Night King is about the grab the hilt of his sword, Arya appears, leaping through the darkness at the Night King`s back. Her scream gives her away and the Night King swivels around, grabbing her by the throat with one hand and staying her knife hand with the other. He roughly throws Arya aside, who remain unconscious on the floor, when he notices Visenya standing behind him with her sword drawn.

"It ends here and now.", she says with cool composure.

The Night King turns and also draws his sword. Visenya takes a deep breath and briefly closes her eyes before throwing herself on the Ice Giant. After a few alternations, she pretends to stumble. The Night King takes advantage of this and thrusts his sword into Visenya's chest. The Night King's sure-footed grin disappears when Visenya grudges weakly at him.

"You did your part.", she gasps as blood flows from her mouth.

With the last bit of her strength in her, she reaches for her dragon glass knife, which she has attached to her thigh and thrusts it into his stomach.

The Night King shatters into tiny ice shards, which rain down where he once stood. One by one, the White Walkers explode into ice shards. The crowd of wights that surround Bran and Visenya fall over, lifeless as rag dolls.

Visenya's legs give way, and she falls to her knees.

"It shouldn't have come to that, Visenya.", Bran says to the woman who takes her last breaths in front of him. "You were not supposed to kill the Night King."

"B … but I had to. You wouldn't have let me live. I know too much."

"They will never know what you did for them. I'll make sure of it."

"It's nice that you show me your real face. At least I'll leave knowing that I was right and saved everyone.", replies Visenya before she collapses to the floor. Making her last breath.

"You have changed the course of things again. This is your punishment.", Bran says, even if he knows, that she can`t hear him anymore.

Meraxo shrieks in horror and crawls to his mother, who is lying lifeless on the ground. His gaze falls on Bran. Suspiciously, he slits his eyes, but then turns back to his mother. After Meraxo tried a few times to wake her up by nudging her, he makes a pitiful sound. Suddenly, Baleria lands on the wall, causing it to collapse. She sniffs Visenya and growls at Bran. Then the dragon grabs Visenya gently in her hind claw. She gives a final roar, and flies gently away.

Many people will mourn her, but no one is allowed to know how she died. Visenya knew what he did and is going to do. She would have thwarted his plan to protect her family. Her death is to be regretted, but it was necessary. They'll never know what she did, Bran thinks. Briefly, almost unrecognizable, a spark of sadness flashes in his eyes. But it disappeared as quickly as it came.

.

When the undead collapse, Jorah and Jon fall to their knees, Daenerys standing just behind.

Tormund, Gendry, Grey Worm, Robb and Ned are stunned. They look out at the lifeless mounds of friend and foe. Nearby, Brienne, Jaime and Podrick lean against the wall, dumbfounded at their sudden escape from certain death.

Tyrion and the Starks stand motionless, while Varys is walking up from behind, leading women and children to join them. The undead have turned into piles of dust and bone fragments.

.

After Daenerys makes sure that neither Jorah nor Jon are deadly wounded, she throws herself into Jon's arms.

"We won.", she breathes and a tear of relief finds its way down her cheek.

“We won.”, Jon agrees smiling and caresses her cheek before putting his lips on hers.

Daenerys smiles into the kiss and presses closer to Jon. Jorah watches the scene with a sad smile on his face. He loves Daenerys more than anyone else in the world, but he knows that there will never be more than friendship between them. Jon is an honorable and good man and as long as he makes Daenerys happy, the old bear can live with it. Better Jon than Drogo or Daario or Euron. Jon Snow proved today that he would die for Daenerys. With one crying and one laughing eye, he looks at the two lovers who are hugging each other tightly. If she is happy, so am I, he thinks to himself and slowly moves away to give them some privacy.

.

Sandor comes out of the darkened doorway, followed by Melisandre. The Hound stops, bent over in relief, but the red priestess continues, walking out the gate and down a snowy aisle flanked by piles of the dead. Davos appears at the gate and watches her walk towards the snowy field beyond. As she walks, she first sheds her red cloak, then her metal choker. Her gait becomes unsteady and her hair turns from red to white. Her dress slides off her shoulders as she shrinks, aging countless years in seconds. She gives off a cloud of dust as she collapses into an emaciated and lifeless pile.

Chapter Text

Theon Greyjoy's body lies on an unlit funeral pyre. The Starks mourns over his prone body. He may have made many mistakes and betrayed them, but he was part of the family. A Stark. Sansa weeps over his dead body, her hand on his chest. She steps back, takes a Stark Direwolf pin from her chest, and secures it on Theon's. Eddard nods proudly to her and then says goodbye to his ward. "You were one of us. A Stark. And you always will be. We will never forget what you did for us."

The Starks, Jon and Sam stand amidst the Stark men, some of whom bear torches. Daenerys joins the crowd a bit further down, next to Jorah, Grey Worm, Varys, Missandei, and Tyrion. In front of the crowd are scores of funeral pyres in a grid. Stark soldiers stand at intervals with more torches. Sansa returns to the somber crowd, joining her family. Even all the Direwolves stand obediently in mourning. Jon steps forward to address those assembled.

“We're here to say goodbye to our brothers and sisters. To our fathers and mothers. To our friends. Our fellow men and women who set aside their differences to fight together and die together so that others might live. Everyone in this world owes them a debt that can never be repaid. It is our duty and our honor to keep them alive in memory for those who come after us and those who come after them for as long as men draw breath. They were the shields that guarded the realms of men. And we shall never see their like again.”

Soldiers of the Free Folk hand torches to Jon, Sansa, Arya, Sam, Tormund, Daenerys, Jorah and Grey Worm. They fan out to various pyres in the field, joining their fallen comrades for one final farewell: Arya to Sandry and Samuel, Jorah to Lyanna Mormont, Sansa to Theon, Jon to Edd. Jon looks to Daenerys, who gives him a sad smile. As one, they ignite the pyres. Daenerys watches the flames spread under her blood riders, then turns away. The living return to the crowd and the flames rise higher. The air fills with a thick black smoke.

.

In the great hall, the victory feast is somber and quiet, even though the hall is filled to capacity. At the head table sit the Starks, Jon, Daenerys, and Tyrion.

“To your health.”, a man shouts.

In the crowd, Gendry looks around. When he asks Sandor if he knows where Arya is, the tall man simply chokes him off. Gendry walks the length of the hall to exit, but Daenerys notices him as he passes the head table.

“Gendry.”, Daenerys says, whereupon the young man stops and faces her. The hall goes even quieter. “That's right, isn't it?”, she asks and Gendry approaches Daenerys.

“Yes, Your Grace.”, he replies and looks uncertainly at the queen.

“You’re Robert Baratheon’s son.”, she says and Gendry nods. “You are aware he took my family's throne and tried to have me murdered?”

“I didn’t even know he was my father until after he was dead.”, he defends himself.

“Yes, he's dead. His brothers are too. So, who's Lord of Storm's End now?”

“I don’t know, Your Grace.”

“Does anyone?”, she asks, but no one in the hall responds. “I think you should be Lord of Storm's End.”, Daenerys decides, making the crowd murmurs.

“I can't be. I'm a bastard.”, Gendry replies uncertain.

“No, you are Lord Gendry Baratheon of Storm's End, the lawful son of Robert Baratheon. Because that is what I have made you.”, Daenerys says smiling, whereupon Gendry nods in shock and surprise. At a nearby table, Davos stands and raises his glass.

“To Lord Gendry Baratheon of Storm's End.”, he shouts, whereupon everyone in the hall rises to their feet to salute Gendry Baratheon.

“To Gendry!”, everyone shouts and cheers the new Lord of Storm’s End.

Gendry takes a goblet from the smiling Jon.

“Lord Gendry!”, someone shouts and Gendry salutes the hall. They cheer in response.

“A fitting reward for a hero.”, Tyrion makes a comment. “And a Lord of Storm's End who will be forever loyal to you.”

“See? You're not the only one who's clever.”, Daenerys replies and looks to Jon, who winks at her. It was actually Jon who gave her this idea.

Eddard quietly watches Jon and Daenerys throw long and intense glances at each other. Jon seems to be very fond of the other half of his family. A little too much for his taste. It is not the Starks' way to love nor marry family members. Family marriages were almost exclusive to the Targaryens ... and Jon is a Targaryen too, Ned realizes. But that doesn't mean he has to marry his aunt or do something else ... something more intimate with her. Ned shakes his head. Jon wouldn't do that. He also has a very close relationship with Visenya. He just feels good and comfortable with his other family. No reason to suspect absurd things, Ned admonishes himself.

Tired he sighs and looks thoughtfully at the empty chair next to Daenerys, which is actually intended for Visenya, but she is not back yet. He should have listened to her. He should have told Jon. Since their reunion, at which Bran revealed Jon's identity to the whole family, Jon has avoided Ned. The Lord of Winterfell kept trying to talk to him, but Jon had always found a reason to avoid the conversation. Even Catelyn wanted to talk to him, but Jon ignored her coldly and pretended she wasn't there. The hatred for the Tully is too deep. At least Jon spends a lot of time with Robb, Arya, and Rickon. The four of them trained together in the courtyard before the Long Night and he watched them from the terrace. It almost felt like it used to be. Almost. When Ned's gaze falls on Morana, she whispers something in Robb`s ear before she leaves the hall. Probably to check on Lyanna. Smiling, he looks after the beautiful Bravoosi. Ned likes her very much. This impressive woman brought Robb out of his grief and helped him when he was on the ground. Plus, she's taken on the motherhood of Lyanna without hesitation, even though she isn't her own. A father cannot ask for a better woman for a son. He wonders when the two will finally get married. Even if the marriage will bring no political advantage. After everything that had happened, his perspective changed. Love is more important than any strategic forced marriages. With Daenerys on the throne, there will be no need to form alliances with any other houses. Also, there are no suitable alternatives for Robb. Both the Martells and the Tyrells were exterminated. Once Daenerys sits on the throne, everything will change. He wonders what Jon is up to in the future. He noticed that he felt very comfortable with the Wildlings and is a respected member. The time will tell.

.

Later that night, the mood has lightened. The merry crowd laughs and enjoys themselves. The wine flows freely. A server places a carafe of wine on the table in front of Brienne and Jaime. The two knights enjoy their victory and drink their wine. In another part of the hall, Davos and Tyrion stand and talk. At the head table, Tormund goads Jon into drinking from his horn.

“All of it.”, orders Tormund.

“Go on.”

“No, not in one go.”, Jon replies.

“Go on. I believe in you.”, Robb goads Jon and drinks from his own wine.

“We have to celebrate our victory.”, Tormund says.

“Vomiting is not celebrating.”, Jon answers and gives Daenerys a short glaze, making her smile.

“Yes, it is.”, Tormund insists, whereupon everyone laughs. The giant man holds up the drinking horn in salute. “Ah! To the Dragon Queen!”, he yells, whereupon everyone in the hall cheers.

“To Arya Stark, the hero of Winterfell!”, Daenerys says and stands up. Everyone stands and cheers again, even louder.

Tormund tips the great horn back and drinks for an inordinately long time. He roars. Jon and Robb smile. Catelyn and Sansa watch them, smiling, then stand and exit. They are both really tired and want to rest. Eddard follows them. He's got a lot in the battle and has to rest too. I'm not as young as I used to be, he thinks with a sad grin.

“I'm fine!”, Tormund slurs and spills some of his wine.

Daenerys take a seat next to Jon, while Tormund continues to spur on the drunken revelry nearby. The hall is abuzz with merriment.

A little later Tormund is quite drunk and vociferous as he celebrates with Jon, Davos, Daenerys, Robb, and some men of the Free Folk.

“The other way around!”, one of the wildlings says.

“I saw him riding that thing.”, says Tormund, turning over and staggering a little as he gestures with his arms.

“We all did.”, Davos replies, smiling.

“No. No. I saw him riding that thing.”

Jon, sitting behind him, shakes his head and laughs. He takes another drink as he listens and gives Daenerys a glaze. They hold hands under the table and Jon lovingly caresses the back of her hand over and over again.

“That's right, you did.”, Davos agrees, smiling about the drunk Tormund.

“I did. That's why we all agreed to follow him. That's the kind of man he is.”

Tormund puts his hand of Jon's shoulder with drunken affection. He then throws his arm around Jon's shoulder, causes Jon to have to let go of Daenerys hand.

“He's little but he's strong. Strong enough to befriend an enemy and get murdered for it!”, Tormund says, laughing. “Most people get bloody murdered, they stay that way.”, he continuous and firmly slaps Jon on the back. Jon winces in pain. The wounds from the battle have only partially healed. “Not this one.”

“Yeah, I didn't have much say in that.”, Jon replies grinning.

“Ah! He comes back and keeps fighting. Here, north of the Wall, and then back here again. He keeps fighting. He keeps fighting.”, Tormund repeats himself and getting louder. “He climbed on a fucking dragon and fought. What kind of person climbs on a fucking dragon? A madman or a king!”, Tormund shouts and let go of Jon, who immediately grabs Daenerys hand again.

The crowd cheers. Jon looks at Daenerys, who throws him a loving look. Jon points to the door with his head and Daenerys nods in understanding. She lets go of Jon's hand, gets up and leaves the hall. A few moments later, Jon apologizes and also leaves the Great Hall.

Robb watches it and frowns. There is definitely something in the bush, he thinks to himself. He shakes his head, amused at himself. Jon wouldn't be with his aunt ... would he? Robb puts down his wine and leaves the hall to check on Cedric.

"I knew that I would find you here, Ced.", Robb greets his friend, who is standing at the highest vantage point of Winterfell and looking thoughtfully into the distance. "I think Visenya rubbed off on you.", Robb continues, but Cedric doesn't answer him. "She'll have a good reason to just leave after the battle. You heard Bran. She flew East with her dragons."

"I know. Still, I'm worried. Before the army of the dead attacked, she was very absent. Robb. She was afraid. Terribly afraid. Visenya doesn`t even fear death. Whatever she saw. It struck her deeply that she didn't even tell me."

"Visenya has to endure a lot. Maybe she needs some time to herself. Some wounds can only heal by themselves."

"I know you are right. But I still worry about her. I will always worry.", Cedric admits and turns to Robb.

"That's called love, pal.", Robb replies with a smile and persuades his friend to go for a drink with him.

.

In the Courtyard, Gendry searches for Arya. He enters a passageway away from the festivities. He is startled by an arrow that pierces the wall just in front of his face. He turns to see Arya holding the bow. He raises both hands in surrender, and enters.

“Don't shoot.”, he jokes and Arya notches another bow.

“It's nighttime, it's freezing, and everyone's celebrating. You should be celebrating with them.”, Gendry notes.

“I am celebrating.”, Arya answers and launches the arrow at a makeshift target tacked to a barrel. She picks up another arrow.

“Yeah, I am too. I'm not Gendry Rivers anymore. I'm Gendry Baratheon, Lord of Storm's End. By order of the queen.”, he says proudly.

“Congratulations.”, Arya congratulates him visibly pleased. Nobody else deserved it more than Gendry.

Gendry grabs her quickly and kisses her.

“I don't know how to be lord of anything. I hardly know how to use a fork. All I know is that you're beautiful, and I love you, and none of it will be worth anything if you're not with me. So be with me.”, Gendry says and kneels before Arya. “Be my wife. Be the Lady of Storm's End.”

Arya bends down and kisses Gendry. They stand together.

“You'll be a wonderful lord, and any lady would be lucky to have you. But I'm not a lady. I never have been. That's not me.”, rejects Arya Gendry's marriage proposal.

She loves him. She really does, but she wasn't a lady. Arya wants to explore the world and discover new countries. In all honesty, the thought of getting attached to a man scares her. She knows that Gendry is a good-hearted young man and respects her. He would never put himself above her and force her to do anything she doesn`t want. Even so, she is not ready for marriage. She readies another arrow, and lets it fly.

.

Jon reaches Daenerys door and knocks. A few moments later the door is opened. Daenerys grabs Jon by the collar, pulls him into the room and slams the door. “What took you so long?”, she asks between passionate kisses. Jon pulls her closer and pushes her against the closed door.

"Since when are you that impatient?", asks Jon with a smile. He lifts her dress and his fingers immediately finds her sex.

“Jon!”, Daenerys moans and bites her lips.

She's been longing for it all night. She has hardly had anything to drink as she is not feeling very well. Jon, on the other hand, is very drunk, but she doesn't mind. At the latest, when his talented mouth finds her most sensitive part, her head is swept empty and she is carried away in a frenzy of lust, passion and love.

It's going to be a long night.

Chapter Text

After they had time to recover a little bit, Daenerys orders a meeting to discuss their next steps. The meeting room contains a map of Westeros with stone pieces representing the forces at Winterfell and King's Landing. The war council consists of Jon, Daenerys, Eddard, Robb, Sansa, Bran, Arya, Missandei, Grey Worm, Tyrion, Varys, Quono, Sam, Maester Wolkan, Maester Gaius, Ser Marvin, Ser Davos, Ser Jorah, Lion Roth and Brienne. The mood is somber and tense. Grey Worm picks up a handful of Winterfell markers.

“Nearly half are gone.”, he says.

“The Northmen as well.”, Jon adds and slides of some other markers. Wolkan slides away some more. Varys places additional markers in King's Landing.

“And the first half of the Golden Company has arrived in King's Landing, courtesy of the Greyjoy fleet. The balance has grown distressingly even, when the other half arrives.”

“When the people find out what we have done for them, that we saved them …”, Missandei begins.

“Cersei will make sure they don't believe it. We will hit her hard. We will rip her out root and stem.”, Daenerys answers.

“The objective here is to remove Cersei without destroying King's Landing.”, Tyrion makes a comment and looks at Varys.

“Thankfully, she's losing allies by the day. Yara Greyjoy has retaken the Iron Islands in her queen's name. The new Prince of Dorne pledges his support.”

“No matter how many lords turn against her, as long as she sits on the Iron Throne, she can call herself Queen of the Seven Kingdoms. We need the capital.”, Daenerys urges.

“I watched the people of King's Landing rebel against their king when they were hungry, and that was before winter began. Give them the opportunity and they will cast Cersei aside.”, Tyrion makes a plan.

“We'll surround the city. If the Iron Fleet tries to ferry in more food, the dragons will destroy them. If the Lannisters and the Golden Company attack, we'll defeat them in the field.”, Jon suggests.

“Once the people see that Cersei is our only enemy, her reign is over.”, Tyrion assures.

“All right.”, Daenerys answers, after thinking about it for a moment.

“The men we have left are exhausted. Many of them are wounded. They'll fight better if they have time to rest and recuperate.”, Sansa points out, making Eddard proud.

“Of course. They deserve a break. Besides, we have to wait for Visenya to come back. We need all our dragons.”, Daenerys agrees.

“Speaking of her. Where is she?”, Tyrion wonders.

“After we won, she flew East.”, Lion Roth answers.

“Nobody knows why, but she does that often.”, Maester Gaius says.

“She's coming back soon. She always does.”, Ser Marvin confirms.

“You must have much faith in your queen, when you accept that she flies away whenever she wants.”, Varys makes a comment.

"Visenya didn't choose to be queen. We raised her to be a queen, but failed miserably. Fortunately. The world doesn't need more queens and noble ladies, but warriors like her.", Ser Marvin defends her queen.

"She hates being queen more than Jon does. And that should mean something.", Ser Davos jokes and some of them grin in agreement.

"Now that we've cleared that up, we can get back to what we're all here for.", Tyrion ends the conversation about Visenya, whereupon everyone nods. “So, if all are in agreement Jon and Ser Davos will ride down the Kingsroad with the Northern troops and the bulk of the remaining Dothraki and Unsullied.”

"I would prefer it, when you fly on Rhaegal. Without a rider, he is a too easy target for the Scorpions.", Daenerys says and looks at Jon, who nods in understanding.

"Instead of Jon I can accompany Ser Davos and the Northerners troops.", Robb suggests and Daenerys nods in agreement.

“Alright. A smaller group of us will ride to White Harbor, and sail from there to Dragonstone with our queen and her dragons accompanying us from above.”, Tyrion continuous and Grey Worm moves those markers into position.

“Ser Jaime has chosen to remain here, as a guest of the remaining Starks of Winterfell.”, Tyrion adds.

“We have won the Great War. Now we will win the Last War. In all Seven Kingdoms, men will live without fear and cruelty under …”, Daenerys begins.

Suddenly the door is slammed open aggressively. A very angry looking Cedric storms in and goes after Bran without warning.

"Where is she?", he yells at Bran and grabs him by the throat, but in the next moment he is pulled away from him by Robb and Ser Marvin.

"Seven hells. What got into you, boy?", asks Marvin, but Cedric just wriggles defiantly out of Robb and Marvin's grasp.

"You'd better ask him." Cedric hisses and points to Bran. "You were the last one who saw Visenya. Where is she now?"

"I'm not sure. She's the only person I can't see. One of her dragons flew away with her. Heading East."

"Cedric. He already told us that.", Robb says conciliatory.

"With whom. With which dragon she flew?", Cedric continuous.

"The big black one. Baleria, I think it's called.", Bran answers emotionlessly, as always and Cedric's face loses all color.

"You're lying." Cedric hisses through clenched teeth, about to lose his temper.

"Cedric. Enough. Visenya has often flown away without telling us.", Maester Gaius admonishes him.

"To the East is Essos and the Shadowlands. Both very dangerous places. Even for one of the best fighters in the world. Her dragons know that."

"What are you getting at?", asks Ser Marvin, alarmed.

"If she's in the East, why are all her dragons here. In the north. Thousands of kilometers away from their mother. Meraxo, Hope and even Baleria. All three have been circling Winterfell for hours now."

Surprised and shocked, Lion, Ser Marvin, Maester Gaius and Arya turn to Bran.

"Bran. What are you hiding from us?", asks Arya, the fear clearly visible in her eyes.

"Maybe she wants to be alone. It was an uphill battle. For all of us.", Ser Jorah suspects.

"You don't understand. Visenya's dragons are her children. She is their mother. They haven't left Visenya's side since the day they hatched. Even Baleria checked her out now and then."

"That's right. When Visenya and I were in Essos together, Meraxo and Vhagario were always close by. During the day they were in caves near us and at night they circled our sleeping quarters."

Now everyone turns to Bran. Before anyone can say anything, the air rips through a pitiful howl.

"Naima.", breathes Cedric and storms out of the room.

"I'm sorry.", says Bran, causing the Starks and Daenerys to pause, but when he doesn't add anything, they too leave the room. Closely followed by Ser Marvin, Maester Gaius and Lion Roth.

"Open the gates!", Cedric orders when he sees Baleria, Meraxo and Hope land in front of Winterfell.

As soon as the gate is so wide open that he can easily squeeze through, he slips through and runs towards the dragons. Past the remains of the pyre on which they burned their fallen soldiers. The three dragons stand in a circle and hold their snouts together. As he gets closer, he sees that there is someone lying there in the snow. Motionless.

With a pounding heart, he stops abruptly. His heart is beating up to his throat and he cannot move. It feels like all his blood is freezing. His body no longer obeys him. His limbs feel as if they are as heavy as lead. His field of vision becomes blurred. Only the outlines of the person lying there in the snow are clearly visible. When Baleria fixes her gaze on him, his body begins to move as if by itself. Every step is torture. Every inch closer to the person in the snow feels more endless. As if Cedric's body already knows what is waiting for him there, although his head refuses to admit it.

After what feels like an eternity, he is standing in front of the woman in the snow. Her skin as white as the snow around her. Her silver hair shimmers in the few rays of sun that have made it through the cloud cover. One might assume that the young woman would sleep peacefully if it weren't for the small ice crystals that cover her hair and face. If it weren't for the fact that there wasn't a cloud of condensed air around her nose to show that she was breathing. If it weren't for the large blood stain on her chest and the stump of the Night King's ice sword sticking out of her chest.

Cedric's legs give way and he kneel in front of Visenya's motionless body.

"No. Please don't. Don't do that to me.", he breathes and shakes her shoulders, even if he knows it won't do any good. She is gone. "Don't leave me alone, Visenya. Please. I can't do it without you.", he puts his ear on her chest and waits. Pray to all gods. A sob escapes his mouth. The initial shock turns into knowledge. Realizing that Visenya is dead. She won`t come back.

Cedric doesn't even look up when Jon, Daenerys, Robb, Arya, Eddard, Marvin, Gaius and Lion stop next to him.

Daenerys claps her hands over her mouth. Salty tears find their way down her cheeks. Jon looks shocked at his sister's body. Tears are gathering in his eyes. Robb shakes his head vehemently and tries to hold back his emerging tears. Lion Roth and Gaius grasp their chests deeply affected and Ser Marvin goes to Cedric to pull him away from Visenya's body, which he is holding tightly. Eddard can only stare in shock at the dead body of his niece. Lyanna's daughter. She is dead. He failed.

Arya is further apart. Tears run quietly down her face. She is about to go over to the others when a movement in the corner of her eye catches her attention. She turns in that direction and sees Naima standing there. She frowns in confusion. Before, the Direwolf did everything to get out to its owner, but now she just stands there and looks at Arya with her deep eyes. The big wolf blinks before turning and trotting away.

Arya can't shake the feeling that something is wrong. Her gaze finds Visenya's body again. The dragons have withdrawn. She can almost feel the uncertainty in their movements. When Hope hints at getting up in the air, Baleria growls at her warningly, which causes the white dragon to submissively lower its head and put its wings back on. Arya looks at Meraxo and winces in shock. The dragon's eyes are white and he is looking directly at her. Then his gaze swings to the others who are still standing around Visenya's body and saying goodbye. Then Meraxo fixes her eyes again. It almost looks like he's winking at her before his eyes return to their normal color and he shakes his head like he's trying to get rid of something.

She shakes her head and rolls her eyes at herself. Now she's imagining weird things. She should say goodbye to her cousin. Annoyed with herself, she stomps to the others.

She kneels by Visenya's body and puts her hand on the Targaryen's shoulder.

"Farewell, Visenya.", she whispers before her gaze falls on the sword stump in her chest.

She pulls her eyebrows together in surprise. That was the Night King's sword. When she attacked him, it wasn't in his hand. She killed him before he could take hold. Then why was it in Visenya's chest? She realizes with horror that she no longer has any memories of how she killed the Night King. All she can remember is sneaking up on him and when she wanted to kill him, he grabbed her by the neck and threw her away. She cannot remember what happened afterwards. All she remembers is that she woke up with her Valyrian steel dagger in her hand. Bran told her that she killed the Night King.

.

Somewhere in Essos, two white eyes, return to their normal shade of brown.

"You should take it easy, Your Grace.", says a woman, dressed all in red.

"Don't worry. I'm fine, Kinvara. It's not the first time you've resurrected me."

Chapter Text

"You knew it, didn't you?", asks Ned, although it's more of a statement than a question.

Bran sits in his wheelchair by the fire while Ned, Robb, Jon, Daenerys, Arya, Marvin and Gaius stand around the table on which they put Visenya.

"I know everything and see everything.", Bran replies and looks thoughtfully at Visenya's lifeless body. Why did the dragons bring her back, he wonders angrily. That only causes him problems because now everyone is probably wondering how she died.

"Why didn't you tell us? She's been dead for a few days and the stump in her chest is clearly that of a White Walker or even the Night King himself.", Maester Gaius asks suspiciously.

"Visenya has already been brought back by a red priestess. I assumed that she would be resurrected again.", Bran replies after being silent for a while.

"We can get her back, right?", Robb asks hopefully.

"She's been dead too long.", Bran destroys the hope of everyone in the room.

"But I was dead for two days before the Lady Melisandre brought me back.", interjects Jon.

"Aye. Two days, Jon. It's been almost a fortnight since the Long Night.", contradicts Bran.

"Were you there when she ...?", Ned asks, leaving the rest of the sentence in the room.

"She fought valiantly.", replies Bran. "But not even she could defeat so many White Walkers."

"But ...", Arya starts, but stop when Bran gives her a strange look that sends a shiver down her spine.

"What do you want to say, Arya?", Ned asks gently.

"Nothing. I ... I should go now.", she stutters and hastily leaves the room. The girl is now absolutely certain that something is wrong with Visenya's death. And she's absolutely certain that Bran has something to do with it.

.

After considering all the options, they decided to burn Visenya's body. After Visenya's funeral, everyone close to her tries to deal with their grief in their own way. Cedric withdraws completely and no longer leaves his room. Arya trains every free minute. Ned keeps going to the Godswood. Jon and Daenerys mourn together and do not leave each other`s side. Robb spends every free minute with Morana and Lyanna. Rickon has fallen into silence. Even Sansa and Catelyn mourn in silence, even if it has always felt like they hate Visenya, they truly cared about her. She was part of the family and have saved their lives several times.

Ser Marvin, Maester Gaius, Ziko, Rolan, Milon, Ivan, Elior, Lior, Keiro, Amir and Illy are the only ones of Visenya's people who survived. Septa Lominara died while protecting a pregnant woman from one of the wights during the Long Night. The wretch mortally wounded her and she died in Maester Gaius' arms. She died a heroine.

Illy has agreed to become Daenerys personal cook to prevent the Targaryen Queen from being poisoned, as she is about to reclaim the throne and enemies can lurk around every corner who want her dead. Since Visenya kept her promise and her men survived the Long Night, they want to show their gratitude to her. They swore to fight for Daenerys to overthrow Cersei. They are sure Visenya would not have liked it, but she did so much for them. That is the least they can do to honor Visenya's memory and support her family.

.

"Your Grace. May I speak to you for a moment?", Maester Gaius asks politely when he meets Daenerys once without Jon.

"Of course, Maester Gaius.", Daenerys replies surprised and invites the old man into her room.

"It's okay. Wait outside the door.", Daenerys orders the two Unsullied when they eyed the man suspiciously.

"What can I do for you?", Daenerys asks after the two guards have closed the door behind them.

"The question is what can I do for you.", replies Gaius and continues when he notices Daenerys confused expression. "I know. It's not easy right now and I'm sure you have a lot to do. And ... and you don't know me at all. That must sound very ... odd now."

"Not really. You raised Visenya and she has often told me that she trusts you more than anyone else. I believe her and no matter what you have to say. I will not judge."

"I don't want to interfere in your affairs, but I couldn't help but notice that you haven't been doing very well for a while.", Maester Gaius continues cautiously. He doesn't know how the queen will react.

"Is that so obvious.", Daenerys replies nervously and plays with one of her hair streaks.

"For trained eyes only.", assures her Maester Gaius. "Would you mind if I examine you?"

"No. I've wanted to consult a Maester for some time, but I just don't know who to trust.", Daenerys admits, unconsciously stroking her belly.

"Of course. You can trust me.", Gaius assures her and gestures to the bed.

"I do, otherwise the two guards would still be in here."

"What symtoms do you have exactly?", Gaius asks after Daenerys has laid down on the bed so that the Maester can examine her better.

"I often feel tired and limp. It actually started before the Long Night, but now it's getting worse. I have no appetite and I often feel sick. I only have ... I ... I ... since Visenya. She is ... ", stutters Daenerys and has to try with all her might to hold back her tears. The loss of her niece is still too fresh. "Excuse me, I ..."

"It's okay. We all mourn.", Gaius says gently and caresses her cheek comfortingly almost fatherly. "You know. Visenya told me before the Long Night to take care of Jon and you. She knew what would happen. She always knew. She wanted to make sure you and Jon are in good hands. Visenya was my queen. I knew her from birth. I've seen her grow up. Healed her wounds when she hit her knee again while training with her sword. I watched helplessly as she slowly died. The day I had to let her go with the Red Priestess was the worst of my life because I knew I couldn't help her. When she returned, together with her three dragons, I kneeled in front of her and begged her to forgive me because I couldn't help her when she needed me most, but she just smiled and said that I had done more than enough and should get up from the cold floor, before I catch a cold.", Maester Gaius tells Daenerys and smiles melancholy. Tears shimmer in his eyes and he blows his nose with a handkerchief.

"That sounds a lot like her.", Daenerys replies, wiping her tears away. Her gaze becomes gentle. "Thank you, Maester Gaius. Unfortunately, I only met her less than a year ago."

"We should have got you out of your exile in Essos. You would have been safe at Castle Wolveshowl. You could have grown up together and you didn't have to go through so much terrible things."

"Then we wouldn't be where we are right now. I'm grateful for every experience I've had. They made me the person I am now.", Daenerys assures him and gives the old man a genuine smile. Then her smile disappears and she looks sadly to the window. "Now it's just me and Jon. The last of the Targaryens."

"Not necessarily."

"I can't have children.", Daenerys says sadly.

"What if I tell you this is not true?"

"I wish it was true. The witch who murdered my husband and son made sure I could never have children again."

"And yet you are pregnant.", Gaius replies with a smile.

"What!", Daenerys gasps and jerks herself up. "That ... that's impossible ... I can't ..." Daenerys stutters. "You must be wrong."

Maester Gaius takes Daenerys hand gently and places it on her belly.

"You are often tired, you often feel limp and you suffer from nausea. All signs of pregnancy.", Gaius explains sensitively and continues before Daenerys can reply. "And whenever you feel uncomfortable, you put your hand on your belly to protect it. Unconsciously."

Daenerys looks back and forth between her stomach and the Maester in disbelief. Is Gaius right? Is it really true? Is she pregnant?

"If you don't believe me, believe Visenya.", Gaius continuous after noticing that Daenerys looks at him uncertainly, whereupon she pricks up her ears and looks at the maester in surprise.

"Did she see it in one of her visions?"

"Aye. She was sure you are pregnant. I was wondering why she wouldn't tell you herself. Now I know."

"I'm pregnant.", Daenerys breathes and tears of joy run down her cheeks.

"Aye, you are, Your Grace."

"Please. Daenerys.", Daenerys replies smiling and puts her hand on the old man's shoulder. With the other hand, she gently caresses her belly.

"As you wish, Daenerys.", Gaius replies. "Congratulations."

Daenerys giggles and wipes away her tears. Then the expression on her face becomes serious.

"Please don't tell anyone about it.", she almost begs the old man.

"Of course. These are dangerous times and under no circumstances do I want to endanger the lives of both of you. I will be silent."

"I owe you something."

"The only thing I want from you is that you take care of yourself. Don't overwork and eat and drink enough.", admonished the Maester Daenerys and she nodded in understanding. "May I feel your belly. Just to see if everything is alright."

"Of course.", Daenerys replies and clears her stomach. Gaius warms his hands by the fire and then feels Daenerys belly.

"Everything seems to be fine with the baby. I would say that you are in your third month. Soon you will be able to see a small bulge."

"That makes me easier.", Daenerys replies with a grin and gets dressed again. "Um ... I've been pregnant before and I lost my firstborn. There ... I don't want to do anything wrong. I am afraid. Jon and I ... we ..."

"Everything is allowed.", replies Gaius with a wink and Daenerys blushes. “And I promise you. Nothing will happen to you or your child. Sadly, many women lose their first child. You were also very young. Now you are an adult. Your body will accept the change more easily and not fight it. You are a strong and healthy woman and your child seems to be very strong too. Take care of yourself and everything will be alright.”

Then she gets up and straightens her clothes.

"I'll check on you every now and then. Let me know immediately if you feel worse."

"I'll. Thank you."

"Nothing to thank.", Gaius Daenerys assures good-naturedly, bows slightly and leaves the room.

"Is everything alright?", one of her guards asks her in Valyrian and Daenerys nods, not being able to turn off the smile on her face.

She is pregnant. She is going to be a mother. The child under her heart is a miracle. A miracle she and Jon created. But she's also scared. Fear of losing another child. I will not let anything happen to you, Daenerys promises her unborn child. She strokes her belly one last time before straightening her clothes again and leaving the room to look for Jon.

She finds him in the Godswood. Jon is there very often. When he notices her, he turns to her and a smile immediately appears on his lips. He gets up and goes to her. It is only when Ghost rubs against her that Daenerys notices the Direwolf and pats him. Then she looks again at Jon, who is eyeing her lovingly. Daenerys is about to start to tell him the great news, but Jon is faster.

"Dany. I've thought a lot. About the war. My family and about us.", Jon begins and Daenerys frowns in confusion. Concern spreads in her. Has he changed his mind? Does he no longer want to marry her because marriage between family members is not common in his family? Has anything changed between them? Does he have any doubts? Jon takes a deep breath before continuing. "We're going to another war soon and we don't know how long it will last. It's only been since Visenya's death that I realized again how precious our life is and I want to spend every second with you.", Jon tells her nervously whereupon she relaxes and smiles lovingly at him.

"I want to marry you. Today. Now."

Daenerys blinks and looks at Jon in surprise.

"Um ... Jon, I ... it's very short-term. Nobody even knows we're engaged. Your family ..."

"I want to marry you. In secret. I don't care what my family thinks about it."

"Then why in secret?"

"So that nobody questions your claim to the throne. I don't want everyone to know who I really am. Your life could be in danger if they know the truth. Until we have won the war and you are queen, I will be Jon Snow. Your ally and the Bastard who bend the knee.", Jon explains and Daenerys looking at him in disbelief. She hates it when he belittles himself like that. He's not a damn bastard. He's a Targaryen. Her Dragonwolf. The heir to the Iron Throne and still the King of the North. "Nobody needs to know that I bent my knee to propose to you."

Daenerys giggles and nods with a grin.

"Is that a yes?"

"It is. Just a question. Who should marry us?"

"A Maester who can keep a secret."

"Maester Gaius.", Daenerys suggests without hesitation and Jon frowns in surprise. "He raised Visenya and, funnily enough, she also offered me it in case we wanted to secretly get married.", Daenerys giggles and looks at Jon knowingly. "She knew."

"Most likely."

"Then let's get married.", Jon says ethically.

"I'll get Maester Gaius and you prepare yourself.", Daenerys orders and gesticulates to Jon`s dirty clothes from training.

"As you wish, Your Grace.", Jon replies and bows before hastily leaving the sacred place.

.

"Um, I've never ridden a dragon before.", says Maester Gaius when he and Daenerys stand in front of Drogon.

Missandei helped her get dressed and Morana loaned her one of her winter clothes. Jon and Daenerys have decided to get married at the beautiful waterfall. After the war, the two will marry in front of a heart tree with all their friends and relatives. Jon flew ahead and Daenerys will follow with Gaius.

When they arrive, Gaius can't get off Drogon fast enough. After the old man has calmed down, he hacks into Daenerys.

Together they go to Jon, who is waiting for them some distance away. He nervously rubs his hands and looks at the white angel walking over to him. His jaws almost dropped and he has to swallow hard. Daenerys is more than beautiful. With the finely embroidered dress and the white fur that adorns it, she looks like a winter goddess.

When he arrives, Gaius hands over his future wife to Jon and stands between the two of them.

"You are so beautiful.", Jon breathes in her ear and kisses her cheek. Daenerys smiles happily before turning to Gaius, who clears his throat.

“Shall we begin?”, asks Gaius, whereupon the two nod. "All right. You know the vow?"

"Aye. I learned it by heart while flying here.", jokes Jon, which makes Daenerys and Gaius smile.

“In the sight of the Old Gods, I hereby seal these two souls, binding them as one for eternity.”, says Gaius, and binds Jon`s and Daenerys` hand with a silk cloth. “Look upon one another and say the words.”, Gaius asks them, and Jon and Daenerys turn towards each other.

“Father, Smith, Warrior, Mother, Maiden, Crown, Stranger.”, they both say in unison.

“I am hers and she is mine, from this day, until the end of my days.”

“I am his and he is mine, from this day, until the end of my days.”

Chapter Text

"We have to do something soon.", insists Tyrion. "While we're freezing our asses off here, Euron has brought the second half of the Golden Company to Westeros."

After Gaius wed Jon and Daenerys yesterday, they brought him back and flew back to the cave together to consummate their marriage.

"Have most of the men recovered?", Daenerys asks.

"Aye. Your Grace.", Ser Davos replies.

"We're really glad you were here to help us defeat the army of the dead, but even as winter fades away with each passing day, supplies are running out.", Maester Wolkan notes.

"I see.", says Daenerys. "Then we'll have to leave soon. Our plan is still feasible, isn't it?"

"Yes, my queen.", confirms Gray Worm.

"Are you still ready to lead the troops, Robb?", Jon asks carefully, knowing that Visenyas death still affects Robb.

"Aye. It's time we toppled Cersei from the throne."

“Alight then, Robb and Ser Davos will ride down the Kingsroad with the Northern troops and the bulk of the remaining Dothraki and Unsullied. A smaller group of us will ride to White Harbor, and sail from there to Dragonstone with our queen and Jon on the dragons accompanying us from above.”, Tyrion summarizes the plan again.

“We'll surround the city. If the Iron Fleet tries to ferry in more food, the dragons will destroy them. If the Lannisters and the Golden Company attack, we'll defeat them in the field.”, says Jon firmly. “Once the people see that Cersei is our only enemy, her reign is over and the throne is yours.”, Jon promises and looks at Daenerys with a look that makes her abdomen tingle.

"I really like your enthusiasm, Jon, but we're still stuck here in the north.", Tyrion interrupts the intense eye contact of the two Targayrens. "Not to be forgotten. We only have two dragons available. Besides, we don't know if Dragonstone is really unmanned or whether my sister is already waiting for us there. One bad hit with a bolt and Drogon and Rhaegal fall from the sky."

"To prevent that, Rhaegal will wear Vhagario`s armor.", Daenerys interjects.

"Why only Rhaegal?", Varys asks, confused.

"Because the armor is too small for Drogon. Gendry is a first-class blacksmith, but it is impossible to forge an armor for a dragon in such a short time.", Jon answers instead.

"Nothing will happen to me.", Daenerys assures Tyrion, who looks at her doubtfully. She knows what he's thinking. You are too important to fly on an unprotected dragon.

.

Davos mounts his steed while Robb packs his saddle. Jon standing besides them, speaking with them, while Tormund approaches.

“You're not gonna ride horses anymore, do you?”, Tormund says grinning. Jon shakes his head, amused and walks to meet Tormund halfway.

“Riding a dragon is way more comfortable. And faster.”, he answers.

“Which dragon?”, Tormund scoffs, looking at Daenerys who waits for Jon in the distance.

Jon laughs and also looks at her and smiles. Tormund looks at Jon with raised eyebrows in amusement. The little crow is hopelessly in love with the dragon queen. Tormund is happy for his friend.

“I'm taking the Free Folk home. We've had enough of the south. The women down here don't like me.”, he says sadly.

“This is the North, you know. And the Free Folk are welcome to stay.”, Jon says smiling.

“It isn't home. We need room to wander. I'll take them back through Castle Black as soon as the winter storms pass. Back where we belong.”, Tormund explains.

Jon looks at Ghost, who walks to him. Grinning he pets his big wolf. Then his expression turns sad.

“It's where he belongs too. A direwolf has no place in the south. Will you take him with you? He'll be happier up there.”

“So, would you.”

“I wish I was going with you. This is farewell, then.”, Jon guesses sadly.

“You never know.”, Tormund replies and the two man hug each other.

“You've got the North in you. The real North.”, Tormund says, before he exits. Ghost following him after he looked to Jon one last time.

Jon walks to meet Sam and Gilly. He gives Gilly a hug, and is surprised by her baby bump. She looks at her belly, smiling. Sam nods to confirm that she is pregnant. Jon feels happy for his friend. Once again, his gaze falls on Daenerys, who is talking to one of her soldiers. She thinks she can't have children and part of him believed her. Curses are powerful tools. Still, another part of him hopes that the gods will grant her her dearest wish. Nobody deserves it more than her. Daenerys had to endure and sacrifice so much. While she sees her dragons as her children, having a flesh-and-blood child of your own is something more. Jon wishes so much that he could grant her this wish.

“Yes, well, the nights have been getting longer and there wasn't that much to do in Oldtown. There's only so many books a person can read, so we …”, Sam explains.

“I'm sure he knows how it happens, Sam. If it's a boy, we want to name him Jon.”, Gilly says friendly.

“I hope it's a girl.”, Jon replies seriously. Then he hugs Sam, both holding back their tears. They came a long way.

“You're the best friend I ever had.”, Sam says to the white wolf and smiles.

“You too, Sam.”, he says farewell. Then he walks to Daenerys.

When he gets to her, he offers her his hand. She takes it and he places a gentle kiss on the back of her gloved hand.

"Are you ready, my queen?", he asks gallantly, at which Daenerys giggles and gives him her brightest smile.

"If you are too, my king.", she replies, taking his arm.

As she says this, Jon realizes that he is indeed a king. He didn't ask for it and he never wanted to, but he would do anything for Daenerys. She will be the queen and he will be the king by her side. He will support, protect and advise her. Now there are only the two. The last of the Targaryen.

Together they go to the dragons that are already waiting for them.

.

After a surprising short sea voyage, Daenerys' fleet arrives at Dragonstone. A ship drops anchor and another furls its sails, while other ships in the distance have already set anchor. Drogon and Rhaegal fly overhead, with Daenerys riding atop Drogon and Jon riding atop Rhaegal. They soar over the castle, enjoying themselves. Daenerys smiles happily at Jon and he replies with a mischievous grin before urging Rhaegal to fly faster. Daenerys shakes her head with a grin and catches up with him. The two dragons fly head to head. Drogon slightly higher than Rhaegal. Jon looks up at her and she winks at him. Suddenly, a huge bolt collides with Rhaegal`s chest armor, which causes him to stumble.

"Watch out!", Daenerys shouts as more scorpions fly towards Rhaegal.

Jon lets Rhaegal evade. One of the Scorpions just misses Rhaegals unprotected neck. Jon curses and directs the dragon up to keep the Scorpions from hitting him. The two dragons screech angrily and dodge the spears, being shot at them.

Tyrion and Varys race to the deck in time to see Drogon and Rhaegal fly higher to avoid the swarm of bolts, which flies toward them. Men shout in confusion and race around the deck.

Daenerys looks down, searching from where the spears come from. Another giant bolt zooms just above her head. She ducks in surprise, and looks to see the Ironborn fleet appear from behind the craggy shores of Blackwater. Several Scorpions have been mounted on their foredecks, one of which is manned by Euron. His crew repositions the huge siege weapon for another shot. Daenerys finds Jon's gaze, which examines her worriedly. She touches her belly unconsciously. He doesn`t know it yet. Nobody knows except Maester Gaius. Jon is about to shout something to Daenerys when a bloodcurdling roar sounds.

The fog behind Euron's fleet lights up in orange flames. A few moments later, Baleria flies out of the clouds, followed by Hope and Meraxo. Lyraxa is sitting on Hopes back. Drogon screeches in greeting and Hope flies to him. Meraxo and Baleria fly over Rhaegal and Drogon, only to turn around and disappear again into the fog. A little later the fog flares up again. Panicked, Euron turns his large crossbow to aim at the dragons, but they stay under cover of the fog.

His men aim into the fog and shoot down the bolts. Suddenly there is a painful screeching. Daenerys and Jon know what that means. One of the Scorpions has hit its target. Hope replies and flies into the fog. Drogon roars in horror and follows his mate. Jon directs Rhaegal towards the mist. Startled, Rhaegal evades Meraxo, who comes swaying out of the fog. Blood flows from the hole one of the spears left in his wing. Unconditioned, he flies towards Dragonstone and crash-lands. There he remains motionless. In the meantime, all of the intact ships in Euron's fleet have left the fog. Daenerys and Jon fly higher to regroup. Horrified, the two watch as Euron uses the Scorpions to damage Daenerys ships.

The two look away as Baleria emerges from the fog. The huge black dragon circles the two smaller ones. She gives them a clear view of her back, which isn’t empty. Daenerys eyes widen in surprise.

"That is impossible.", Jon breathes in shock and speaks Daenerys thoughts out loud.

Jon and Visenya's eyes meet, before Baleria puts on her wings and fly toward the sea to protect the Targaryen ships. Daenerys and Jon exchange a look of disbelief, before following their family member, who was believed to be dead. Together, the four dragons manage to sink the majority of Euron's fleet.

They only leave the ship intact with which Euron sails. He should tell Cersei what happened. He should tell her what happens if she messes with the Targaryens.

.

Jon and Daenerys land near where Meraxo crashed and is still lying. As they approach, they see that Visenya is kneeling by him and gently caressing his muzzle. When Visenya notices them, she gets up and turns to her brother and aunt.

Jon runs to her and hugs her tightly. A sob escapes his throat, and he hugs his sister even tighter. Visenya hisses between clenched teeth. The wound in her chest hasn't healed completely. Jon breaks up after a while to make room for Daenerys, who happily hugs her niece. Then they take off each other and Visenya smiles slightly.

"Why ... How did you ...? We burned your body.", Jon bursts out.

"I know you have many questions and I will answer them all, but not now. It was risky coming here, but I couldn't let Rhaegal die and let Missandei became Cersei's prisoner. You mustn't tell anyone that I was here to help you.

"Why? Everyone thinks you're dead.", Jon says.

"And that's exactly what everyone should continue to think."

"B ... But Ned, Arya, Cedric ... We have all mourned you. Why shouldn't they know that you are still alive?" Daenerys asks blankly.

"It will all make sense. Trust me."

"We do, but I don't understand why ...", Jon begins.

"Lots of human lives are at stake. I'm trying to save them.", replies Visenya and turns to Daenerys. "Have you already talked to Maester Gaius?", asks Visenya and smiles slightly when Daenerys hand automatically lies on her belly.

"What? Why should Daenerys talk to Maester Gaius? Is everything okay?", asks Jon worried and panicked, while he looks back and forth between Daenerys and Visenya.

"So, he doesn't know yet.", Visenya notes in Valyrian.

"What do I not know?", Jon asks and Visenyas eyes widen in surprise.

"Since when do you understand Valyrian?", Visenya asks surprised.

"Since I taught him a few things.", Daenerys replies, smiling nervously.

"What do I not know?", Jon asks again.

"It's not up to me to tell you, brother.", replies Visenya. "I should go now. Don't forget. Nobody is allowed to know ..."

"... that you are still alive. Got it.", Daenerys assures her.

"Please take care of Meraxo. He will be fit again in a few days.", Visenya asks. "Soon everything will make sense. I promise.", she says goodbye, mounts Baleria and flies away.

"I don't know what?", asks Jon after Visenya has disappeared on the horizon.

Daenerys sighs, considering whether to say it or not. She knows that in her condition he will never let her go to war. But it is his child that she carries under her heart. A miracle that he made possible.

"Jon, there is something you should know.", Daenerys starts excitedly, causing Jon to frown in confusion. "Before we left Winterfell, Maester Gaius examined me. Visenya actually arranged that. Before her death."

"What did he find out? Are you sick?", asks Jon, getting more and more concerned.

"I'm fine. I'm doing very well.", Daenerys replies with a smile, takes Jon's hand and places it on her belly. "I'm pregnant."

Jon's eyes widen in surprise and he looks at Daenerys in disbelief.

"You are pregnant?", he asks again as a precaution, in case he has misunderstood something.

"Yes.", Daenerys confirms and nods vigorously while tears of joy run down her cheeks. "You're going to be a father, Jon."

Jon's mouth twisted into a grin and he hugged Daenerys tightly before picking her up slightly and turning in circles with her. Daenerys giggles happily and gently places her lips on Jon`s.

"I told you not to believe a witch."

"Yes, you proved that.", Daenerys replies and smiles.

"I love you so much, Dany. Both of you.", Jon breathes and puts his hand gently on her belly, before his lips find hers again.

.

A little later in King`s Landing, Cersei looks out into the courtyard of the Red Keep. A crowd files in through the main entrance from the city beyond.

“Our message was well-received, then?”, Cersei asks her hand.

“Your people have heard the Usurper is coming. They are grateful for your protection within the walls of the Red Keep.”, Oyburn reports and turns to Euron, who approaches.

“You're certain about the dragon?”, Cersei asks.

"I saw how he crashed into the island, severely wounded. One of our bolts slashed it`s wing."

"But that didn't stop the others from burning down your whole fleet.", Cersei says angrily. "How can it be that each of your ships had Scorpions and your men only managed to wound one dragon?"

"They're more agile than they look. One of the dragons was wearing an armor. The Scorpion just ricocheted off the metal and only shook the dragon a little."

"How many dragons were there?"

"Five. The red and black one that Daenerys always flies and the green one who accompanied them to King's Landing. A white, smaller one. The one we shot down was the one we met on our way to Essos. And ... ", replies Euron, swallowing hard.

"And?", Cersei asks impatiently.

"A huge pitch-black dragon. It is bigger than the black and red one and with one breath of fire it was able to sink two entire ships. His skull is almost as big as that of Balerion the Black Dread.", suspects Euron and Cersei snorted contemptuously in response.

"Now I'm quite sure Daenerys can't be the only Targaryen. She only had three dragon eggs."

"Maybe they multiplied."

"I don't think so. Daenerys dragons weren't the first."

"Don't tell me you're starting to talk about this secretive woman again.", Euron pisses annoyed and rolls his eyes. "Probably this woman was just an ordinary citizen who doesn't like your son and you."

"Slowly all the pieces of the puzzle are coming together. The woman really does exist, and I'm certain she is a Targaryen. I've put some of the most skilled spies on the case. People must fear you more than the enemy. I was on the verge of stopping my research, but a woman came to me a few days ago. My spies interviewed her before and she was ready to tell me what she knew. At the time Sansa was kidnapped from King's Landing, her friend, a former whore from Bravoos housed three strangers. They stayed for a while but never mentioned where they came from or where they were going. We paid a visit to this woman and my knights interviewed her. She wasn't very cooperative, but after lengthy questioning everyone chirps sooner or later."

"What did she tell you?"

"Winter will come for House Lannister, and Fire and Blood will reign again as they did for three hundred years.", says Cersei, laughing unimpressed.

"I suspect House Stark and House Targaryen have teamed up against you."

"It seems so. They may have their dragons and Direwolves, but they have a weakness I don't have. The people. They won't attack King's Landing while all the people are within those walls."

"Clever. You will use their weakness against them."

"Exactly and if they should attack these walls with their fire-breathing beasts, we will perforate them with scorpions and let the city burn."

"With Wildfyre.", adds Qyburn with a sneaky grin. "Then there will be nothing left to conquer."

"And they'll turn against Daenerys because they can't know that it wasn't the dragons that let millions of people burn.", Euron draws the conclusion.

“When the war is won, the Lion shall rule the land, the Kraken shall rule the sea, and our child shall one day rule them all.”, Cersei says, while she strokes Euron hair, while he is kneeling in front of her.

Euron rises, and looks to Qyburn, who nods, confirming Cersei's pregnancy. Elated, Euron stokes Cersei affectionately, but even a blind man can see, that she does not enjoy it.

“Keep the gates open. If she wants to take the castle, she'll have to murder thousands of innocent people first.”, Cersei orders and moves away from the window and walks past her loyal guard, who guards a beautiful brown-haired woman, hands shackled and weeping.

"So much for "the Breaker of Chains."", Cersei says condescending, before she exit, together with Qyburn and Euron.

.

Daenerys lays down the kraken figure on the war map.

"What do we do next, my queen?", asks Grey Worm Daenerys, who is pensively studying the Westeros map.

"Shouldn't we be talking about the fact that you and Lord Snow were almost shot out of the sky earlier?", asks Tyrion, still shocked from earlier. "If Visenya's dragons hadn't come to your aid, you would now be lying at the ground of the sea and your fleet would be destroyed."

"Speaking of the dragons. We haven't seen them since Visenya ... deceased. You said that now that they are wild dragons, they no longer fight with us.", notes Varys suspiciously.

"Hope is Drogon's mate. She wouldn't let him down. Besides, they are smarter than many men. They know that Visenya would have wanted them to support Daenerys.", Jon answers for Daenerys. Varys is once again too suspicious for his own good.

"Since when you are the dragon expert here?", asks Tyrion, surprised.

"Jon ... Lord Snow is right. Dragons are like us. Loyal to their kind.", Daenerys agrees with Jon. "But they will only help us if they consider it right. We cannot and must not rely on going to war with five dragons."

"Luckily we don't want to burn the city down.", says Tyrion with a strange undertone and throws Varys a furtive look.

"What do you mean by that, Tyrion?", Daenerys asks sharply.

"I just mean. It will be some time before we can overthrow Cersei. We have to be patient."

"Are you accusing me of being impatient?", asks Daenerys, dangerously calm.

"No, I ...", he stutters.

"You should show your queen more respect, Lord Tyrion.", snorts Jon authoritatively, which causes everyone to look at him in surprise. "We have a plan and that is how it is carried out."

"Since when do you make the decisions here?", Jorah asks challengingly.

"I am very grateful for your support, Lord Snow. But I am still your queen and I can handle my hand if he insults me.", Daenerys admonishes Jon and throws him a warning glaze.

"There are also my men, who are under your command. I am their king. I do have a say, too."

"You are not an advisor to the queen, but the Warden of the North. Or isn't that your father or your brother?", Ser Barristan says, politely.

"You are Lord … no advisor.", interjects Qhono huskily.

"So, you're not in charge.", agrees Grey Worm.

"Yes, he is.", Daenerys suddenly says, which causes everyone to look at the queen in surprise.

"I can't quite follow you.", says Varys, frowning.

"He is still the King in the North. I respect his counsel as I do yours.", Daenerys defends Jon.

"He bent the knee.", Tyrion contradicts. "Just because he warms your bed at night doesn't give him the right to give any commands."

"Be careful what you say.", growls Jon dangerously calm.

His eyes dagger Tyrion and he clenches his hands into fists to not lose control. He's a Dragonwolf indeed, Daenerys thinks proudly. Jon is letting the dragon out of the cage more and more and not just in bed. Daenerys must happen to love this untamed and wild side of Jon. The very thought that he would let the world burn for her makes her wet. Involuntarily she presses her tights together and bites her lip. Jon catches her gaze and licks his lips. He would like to take her here and now. He longing after her. Since Visenya's supposed death, they have given up any intimate interaction. It didn't seem fair to them, but now that they know Visenya is fine, Jon can't wait to claim his love again.

"Shall we leave the room?", Tyrion asks when he notices that Jon and Daenerys are undressing each other with their eyes.

He'd never admit it out loud, but he hates seeing them so close and intimate. The Lannister likes and respects the Bastard of Winterfell, but hates that Daenerys trusts him more than him. Her hand and advisor. It's almost like Daenerys shares everything with Jon without even considering asking his advice. Since Jon and Visenya came to Dragonstone, Tyrion has felt left out. Daenerys always asked her niece, who came out of nowhere, for advice and didn't say anything when she accused him of being suspicious, untrustworthy and disloyal. In all honesty, Visenya scared Tyrion very much. She knew a lot of things. About him, his family and everything that has happened and happened in the kingdoms. Not even the well-informed person in the world knew about her existence. How could she manage to stay hidden for so long and the most important question of all is. Who were her parents? He already has a guess. Since Eddard Stark helped her and she is half Stark, she can only be Lyanna's daughter. Everyone knows that Rhaegar raped her. The dwarf suspects that she became pregnant and then died in childbirth. What a tragic and sad story. How many tens of thousands had to died, because Rhaegar kidnapped Lyanna? There is only one thing he does not understand. Why should Eddard protect the child that Rhaegar put into his sister that killed her. On the other hand, Eddard gave her away and never spoke of her. Eddard is an honorable man and knows that the child was innocent. Still, he couldn't bring himself to raise her in Winterfell. Better this way. He saved her a life as a bastard and scum. Jon wasn't that lucky. Tyrion knows he doesn't know the whole truth. Eddard and Visenya were very close. Somehow understandable. The young woman was the only thing he had left of his sister. But that doesn't matter now. She is dead.

Tyrion is roused from his thoughts when Jon replies.

"Aye. You can go.", Jon snorts tightly.

Daenerys advisors look at her queen, waiting what she will say about Jon`s command.

"You can go.", Daenerys confirms and her gaze catches on Tyrion, who is just about to leave the room. "Not you, Lord Tyrion."

The dwarf freezes in his movement and turns back to face his queen.

After the others have closed the door behind them, Daenerys turns to her hand.

"Don't you dare to talk about Jon like that again. Do you understand?", Daenerys snorts angrily.

"But ... he's a bastard. No offense, Jon.", Tyrion apologizes. "I know that you enjoy your nights together a lot, but sooner or later you have to marry someone in order to form a good alliance. Since both Robb and Rickon are still alive, they have higher claims as the trueborn sons of Eddard Stark."

"You want me to marry a boy?", Daenerys asks, stunned, frowning.

"No, of course not. There are many other contenders who can get you good alliances in Westeros."

Jon crosses his arms and leans against the wall. Daenerys gives him a questioning look and he nods slightly. Tyrion notices this and frowns in confusion.

"There is something you should know before thinking about any marriage plans.", Daenerys begins.

"What did you do?", Tyrion asks, slightly nervous.

"Daenerys cannot and will not marry a man because she is already married.", Jon replies and pushes himself off the wall.

Tyrion's eyes widen and he looks back and forth between Jon and Daenerys.

"Jon and I got married."

"You can't be serious.", Tyrion sighs. "When did you plan to tell me about it? I am your Hand."

"I just told you.", replies Daenerys dryly.

"Who else knows?", Tyrion asks after he has had a long sip of wine and has sat down on one of the chairs.

"Nobody and it should stay that way until we have overthrown Cersei and win back the throne. Do you understand me?", Daenerys asks warningly.

"But ..."

"Understood?"

"Yes, your Grace.", Tyrion gives in and pours the rest of the wine down his throat. "Anything else I should know?"

"That was all, Lord Tyrion. You can go now.", Jon says harshly to finally be alone with Daenerys, whereupon the little man gets up and leaves the room.

As soon as Tyrion is out the door, Jon grabs Daenerys by her hip and presses her against the table. Daenerys buries her hands in his raven-black locks and sighs as Jon begins to pamper her neck with kisses.

"I've been waiting for this all day.", Jon growls between kisses and starts to open Daenerys armor.

"Only this day? I've been waiting for it for weeks.", Daenerys jokes and tinkers with Jon's armor.

"I've heard pregnant women are particularly needy."

"Shut up and kiss me.", Daenerys orders impatiently and throws Jon's armor on the floor.

Jon grins and presses his lips to hers. Like a hungry wolf, he eats almost her whole face, picks her up and places her on the table. Some of the figures fly around, but the two of them don't let that put them off. The only thing that matters is that they are finally close again and make each other happy.

.

"Did you see his face? I've never seen Tyrion so upset.", Jon jokes after the two of them retreat to their chambers. Happy and satisfied.

"Yes. He should have thought about how he would treat you beforehand. I'm sorry my advisers treated you that way."

"It's okay. To them, I'm just a bastard who dares to give orders."

"They wouldn't talk about you like that if they knew the truth.", Daenerys notes carefully.

"I know. It would be interested how they would react if they find out who I really am."

"I think they would react similarly.", Daenerys replies with a giggle. "You don't want to tell them, do you?", she asks, suddenly serious.

"Sooner or later, they'll find out. Sansa almost divulged it during the Long Night and Rickon called me Aegon for fun when Davos and Barristan were in the room. I was able to convince them that Rickon was referring to Aegon the Conqueror and his two sisters. I want it to be kept secret as long as possible. At some point everyone will know. Better later than earlier."

"I can't understand it, but I accept your decision.", Daenerys gives Jon to understand and sighs. "I wish the war is over by now."

"Me too. Today was damn close. I don't even want to think about what would have happened if ...", Jon breathes in panic, but before he can think about anything else, Daenerys pulls him into a tight hug.

"Sh, Jon. We're fine. Visenya is alive and we will win this war. We now have one more reason to make the world a better place.", Daenerys whispers and smiles slightly.

Jon takes a deep breath and relaxes. He gently caresses Daenerys belly.

"It seems to me that this is all just a dream."

"Me too. A beautiful dream I never want to wake up from."

Jon kisses Daenerys forehead and then kneels down to kiss her belly as well. Daenerys smiles touchingly, runs through his thick hair and grazes his scalp. Jon sights relaxed and gets up. Daenerys gasps in surprise as he picks her up bridal and carries her to the bed. He gently places her on it and cuddles up to her. They lie cuddled together and Jon caresses Daenerys belly while her hand is on his. Relaxed, she closes her eyes and fell asleep the next moment. Jon watches her and still can't believe his luck. He can call the most beautiful, strongest and most impressive woman in the whole world his wife. If that's not already breathtaking enough, she also carries a little miracle under her heart. He is going to be a father soon and she will be the best mother a child could ask for. They will break the wheel and create a new world. A better one. For everyone in Westeros and especially for their unborn child. Jon smiles happily and closes his eyes too.

Chapter Text

“The Northern armies?”, Jon asks, when Cedric gets out of the little boat that brought him to the beach.

“Just crossed the Trident. They'll be at the walls of King's Landing in two days.”, Cedric answers and walks beside Jon to the castle.

"Good. We're ready.", Jon says, giving Cedric a concerned look.

The knight is still devastated, because of Visenyas dead. He would like to tell him that she is still alive, but he promised his sister not to say anything to anyone. Not even Cedric. Then it occurs to him again that he has to ask Cedric something.

"I got a letter from Kingslanding a few days ago.", Jon starts, whereupon Cedric looks at him waiting. "Cersei wrote that she wanted to negotiate. We wouldn't really go into that, but she wrote something about a woman they captured. Her name is Selena.", Jon continues. Cedric stops abruptly. All color has drained from his face and he breathes 'no'.

"You know her?", Jon asks, surprised.

"Aye. Selena is a former slave and whore from Bravoos. When we were in Essos, Marvin bought her free. Selena came with us to Westeros, but she didn't like the north, so she went to Kingslanding. She helped us rescue Eddard and Sansa from Kingslanding and let us stay with her when we were looking for Arya."

"We have to save her.", Jon decides.

"Do you seriously believe that Cersei will let her go? Selena is already dead.", Cedric says sadly and walks on.

"So should we just let her die without even trying to save her?", Jon asks, haunted, and hurries after Cedric.

"Win this war, sit on the damn throne and make sure that no innocent man, woman or child have to die anymore.", Cedric replies harshly and begins to climb the countless stairs that lead to the castle.

Jon sighs and hurries after him. With Visenya's death, all warmth has disappeared from Cedric and he is only a shell of the man he once was.

Halfway, Cedric discovers Meraxo, who is sleeping on one of the many cliffs. Cedric frowns in amazement and stops.

"What is Meraxo doing here?", he asks curious.

"When Euron's army attacked us, his wing was hit by a bolt and he crashed there. He has not moved since then. The other dragons provide him with food."

"Did he help you?"

"Aye. All the dragons helped.", Jon replies, whereupon Cedric turns to him.

"Where is she?", he asks, his trembling lips.

"Where's who?", Jon pretends to be stupid.

"You know exactly who I'm talking about, Jon."

"Cedric. I ..."

"Arya was right."

"About what?", Jon asked, confused.

"Nothing. Forget it," says Cedric and walks on. "We should prepare for war."

.

As crowds flock to the Red Keep, three cloaked figures make their way through the alleys to get to the dungeons.

"Are you sure we're in the right place?", one figure asks the other.

"Yeah, I am. I ran that way with a mouse.", she replies, whereupon she gets a confused look from the other one.

"You don't have to understand that. Go on, Marilla.", the third person steps in and pushes the other forward.

The leading person guides the others through the city labyrinth with practice. A short time later they crawl through a hidden entrance until they arrive in the dungeon. It stinks of decay and stale air.

"This place sucks.", Marilla complains, wrinkling her nose.

"We are here because of you. Be quiet and follow Visenya's instructions," admonishes a woman dressed in red.

"Kinvara is right. The sooner we're done here, the faster you can get on with your life."

"I already said I'm sorry. Selena is my girlfriend. I didn't realize my statement would be taken so seriously."

"You don't betray your friends to Cersei. You just wanted to save your own skin.", Visenya said coldly and stopped.

The other two women run into her. In front of them are two guards. Before they can draw their swords, Visenya grabs them both and drags them into the darkness. Not a second later, the guards fall silent. As Visenya steps back into the candlelight, Kinvara sees the slight blue tinge around Visenya's eyes. She watches with concern as Targaryen continues on her way through the dungeon. She should have rested after her resurrection. Instead of eating, they flight to King’s landing for days and walked through the streets of the city. Visenya's wound hasn't even begun to heal. It will never really heal. At a cell Visenya stops and sighs. Kinvara goes to her and looks inside as well. She sadly closes her eyes. In front of her in the cell, two women are chained to the wall.

Tyene Sand and Ellaria Sand.

Dried blood from Tyenes nose, mouth and ears covers her lifeless face. Startled, the three intruders turn to Ellaria as she moves slightly. Visenya immediately opens the cell and kneels to her. Flickering, the mother opens her eyes and looks at Visenya.

"Make her pay for what she did to my daughter.", she breathes. Her voice is raspy and barely audible. "Promise me, my queen."

Apparently, she mistakes Visenya for Daenerys. Visenya takes a deep breath. She knows that Ellaria will die soon.

"I promise. I will bring fire and blood to Cersei.", Visenya promises her, whereupon Ellaria smiles with the last of her strength.

"I want to see Oberyn and my children.", she whispers, her breath rattling.

Visenya nods and pulls out her dagger.

"Unbowed, Unbent, Unbroken.", the silver-haired woman whispers and drives the dagger into Ellaria's heart.

With a faint smile on her lips, the life drains from Ellaria and she breathes her last breath. Visenya slowly stands up and cleans her dagger of Ellaria's blood. She then takes a torch from the wall and sets fire to Ellaria's body first, and then her daughter's.

"Cersei will pay for her sins.", she says before exiting the cell. "Come. The fire won't go unnoticed for long."

Kinvara and Marilla exchange a worried look before following the dragon wolf. Shortly before the exit that leads inside the Red Keep, there are more guards, which Visenya overpowers. Then she opens the cell where the person they are actually here for is sitting hidden in the shadows.

"I already told you I won't tell you anything. You're wasting your time.", a weak, raspy voice sounds out of the darkness.

"Selena.", Visenya breathes, stunned, as the glow of her torch illuminates the Bravoosi.

Her once shiny brown hair is matted and covered in dirt and blood. Her face is covered in bruises. Her robe hangs in rags from her once strong, shapely body. Selena is shaking all over and can barely keep her eyes open. Hearing the familiar voice of her queen, she raises her head and her eyes widen.

"Visenya? I'm dreaming. I'm already seeing ghosts?", she mumbles to herself.

Visenya goes to her and kneels down. she gently takes the hands of her battered friend and squeezes them encouragingly.

"I'm here to get you out of here," she says, helping her friend to her feet.

Kinvara comes to her aid. The two women supported the weak young woman and left the cell. They manage to escape unnoticed. In the days that follow, Marilla takes care of her friend while Kinvara and Visenya, with the help of a few confidants, fill up the catacombs that Cersei filled with Wildfyre with sand.

.

"Are the troops ready?", Daenerys asks Cedric.

They stand around the painted table with Jon, Robb, Varys, Tyrion, Qhono, Gray Worm, Missandei, and Ser Davos to discuss the final details of the conquest of King's Landing.

"Aye, Ser Marvin sent word to me that they have set up camp near the city.", reports Cedric.

"What about the Unsullied?", Daenerys asks her trusty commander.

"They're already on their way."

"On their way where?", Tyrion asks, confused.

He knows nothing of a plan involving the Unsullied. Only the Northmen shall attack King's Landing.

"To King's Landing to support Robbs and my men.", Jon replies for Daenerys.

"When was that decided?", asks Varys, also confused and surprised.

"At a meeting.", Robb replies with a grin. He didn't particularly like Varys or Tyrion.

"How come we didn't know about this?", asks Tyrion, surprised and shocked at the same time.

"It was a meeting that does not concern you or Lord Varys.", Daenerys explains coldly before turning to Robb, Cedric, Ser Davos, Qhono and Gray Worm. "If there are no questions, you can travel to your people."

All five nod and leave the room to catch up with the assembled army they have sent ahead. Missandei also excuse herself to say goodbye to Grey Worm, before he goes into war. Tyrion looks after the them before turning to Daenerys.

"I am your hand. Why wasn't I notified of this change in plan?”, he asks, disappointed.

"Because you are no longer my hand.", Daenerys replies, causing Tyrion to flinch and look at his queen in shock and hurt.

"W... why, if I may ask?", Tyrion stutters, overwhelmed, and exchanges a look with Varys, who is just as surprised.

"We will go to war against your family in a few days. Helping your brother escape has shown me that your judgment is flawed and your family's loyalty stands in the way of diligently carrying out your job as my hand in this war.", Daenerys explains, standing next to Jon, who puts his arm protectively around her waist.

“The same goes for you Lord Varys. Your services as an advisor are no longer needed. Both of you have betrayed my trust.”, she hisses, unable to contain the anger and hatred she feels for the two men.

"I admit. Freeing my brother was a betrayal against you.”, Tyrion admits. "I let you down, but I never meant anything bad."

"No, you just thought I'd go mad like my father.", Daenerys replies, taking a menacing step forward.

She knows her mood swings can be unsettling to someone who doesn't know she's expecting a child, but as an advisor, it's important to be open about your doubts and not act behind your queen's back.

"Your Grace. I've never done anything that would make you doubt my loyalty.”, Varys defends, to which Jon snorts derisively.

"No, you were just trying to poison me.", says Daenerys, narrowing her eyes at the spider. Tyrion looks shocked at his friend, who looks down guiltily. "Remember what I promised you?", Daenerys asks coolly and Varys nods before meeting his queen's eyes.

"If I ever betray you, you'll burn me alive."

Jon gives Daenerys a questioning look, and she nods slightly.

"The only reason you're still standing here is because we want you to watch Daenerys and I reclaim our family throne. With fire and blood.“, Jon says and puts his hand on his sword. It takes a while for Tyrion and Varys to realize the meaning of Jon's words. They stare in silence at Jon, who takes one of the dragon figurines from the table. "I assume you've already done some research on Visenya and me.", Jon continues, placing the dragon on the painted table where Winterfell is drawn. Varys follows Jon's every move.

"Let us know what you've already found out. You're welcome to say something, too, Tyrion. I'm sure you've been thinking about it too.”, Daenerys commands, crossing her arms over her chest.

"Visenya was the daughter of Lyanna Stark and Rhaegar Targaryen.", Tyrion guesses, looking uncertainly at Varys. The two men have no idea what the whole thing is about.

"She was a bastard. Begotten by raping Lyanna Stark.” Varys continues, looking at Tyrion.

"And what does all this have to do with me?", asks Jon, taking the dragon figurine back into his hand. "How is it possible that Lord Eddard Stark's bastard is able to ride a dragon?", he asks, placing the dragon on Dorne.

“Visenya is your twin sister. You have the same eye colour.” Tyrion replies after putting the puzzle pieces together.

"You're almost right.", Daenerys says, giving Jon a small smile.

They've waited so long for the right moment to corner Varys and Tyrion. When they found out that Varys was trying to convince Illy to hire another maid to do her job, they already knew Varys was up to something. They also learned that Varys and Tyrion had a number of sensitive conversations, discussing the best way to stop Daenerys if she went insane. Although they ordered Tyrion not to tell anyone about their marriage, he ran straight to his friend to break the news.

"Robert's Rebellion was built on a lie. Rhaegar didn't kidnap Lyanna, or rape her. Hey loved her. And she loved him. I have never been a bastard... My name is Aegon Targaryen, sixths of my name and heir to the Iron Throne and if either of you ever try to kill my wife and my unborn child again, you will wish you were never born.", Jon snarled, stabbing Tyrion and Varys with a fiery glare.

He would do anything to protect his family. Even if it means burning the whole world down. You can see exactly when the two men realize Jon's words. Tyrion's jaw dropped and Varys looks genuinely shocked, surprised and overwhelmed for the first time.

"I know. It's a lot to process. We'll give you time.", says Daenerys before nodding to someone behind the two shocked men. "Arrest them.", she orders, whereupon Varys and Tyrion are arrested by four Unsullied who have entered unnoticed. The two men let themselves be taken away without resistance. It looks like they're going to take a while to grasp the magnitude of the news.

"You have no idea how long I've been wanting to do this.", Jon says, giggling after they're alone in the room of the painted table.

"I love it when you're so ruthless.", Daenerys admits while running her finger over Jon's chest.

Surprised, Jon looks into her eyes darkened with love and lust. Jon's protective nature makes her wet.

"That was the first time you used the words of House Targaryen.", she notes as Jon grips her hips to pull her closer.

Just looking at her makes him hard. He just can't get enough of her.

"It felt right to use them. I'm not a Stark anymore. Winter's gone.", Jon admits while exploring the crook of her neck with his lips.

"You are a dragon. Be a dragon.", Daenerys quotes Olenna Tyrell.

"Yesterday you said I licked you like a hungry wolf.", replies Jon, beginning to kiss her neck softly. Daenerys stifled a groan and undid Jon's belt.

"You are my dragon wolf.", she purrs in his ear as she grabs his cock. Jon growls in excitement and bites her neck lightly.

“And you are my fearless dragon.”, he replies while his fingers find her sex.

“Jon.”, she moans and throws her head back in pleasure.

This was going to be a long afternoon. Soon they would go to war. Every moment they can spend in togetherness is precious.

After much discussion, Daenerys convinced Jon that nothing would happen to her on Drogon's back. While Jon and Rhaegal would sink the remaining ships of Euron's fleet, she would take down the scorpions on the city walls.

.

Some days later, the whole army is in front of the doors of Kingslanding. The battered and snarling Northmen are crowded together. Behind them, the Dothraki and the Unsullied stand ready. On a rise just behind them stands Cedric, Robb and Grey Worm. Davos joins them as men file past. They look at the battlements and forces in the near distance.

“If you hear the bells ring, they've surrendered. Call off your men.”, Davos says to Grey Worm, Robb and Cedric. They nod and joins their men.

Meanwhile Euron paces while his men look to the sky. Something in the sun catches his eye, and he shields his eyes as he looks directly at it. Rhaegal emerges from the blinding sun, diving through the sky towards the fleet. Alarmed the iron born react to the attack. They bring the scorpion around and fire a bolt at the big green dragon. Jon and Rhaegal evade the bolt and continue their steep dive. Jon uses the sun to hid them to evade the scorpions. The dragon soars above the fleet. With a roar, he sets one ship after another on fire. His armour makes him slow, but at the same time protects him from the huge spears that are fired at him. Jon elevates Euron's ship to the last, directing Rhaegal to hover directly over Euron. He makes eye contact with Euron, who is looking at him with a mixture of fear and insane madness. "C'mon. Finish it, bastard.", he yells at Jon. "I'm not a bastard.", Jon replies, repining with himself. He has never ordered Rhaegal to burn anyone alive before. Suddenly, one of the scorpion slams into Rhaegal's armour with full force. The dragon roars angrily and spews a huge barrage of fire at the last remaining giant crossbow. Jon struggles to keep his footing on the giant creature. In the distance he hears Drogon's roar. He looks anxiously towards the city before turning his attention to the usurper of the Iron Isles. "Let's finish this," he says to Rhaegal and takes a deep breath. "Dracarys."

Meanwhile outside the walls of King’s Landing it is quiet. The two forces are still in their stand off. Harry Strickland is mounted before the Golden Company. Grey Worm, Robb, Cedric and Davod lead the Stark and Targaryen forces. A horse whinnies and the wind picks up, carrying the sound of great wings flapping. Everyone turns their heads to try and locate the rising sound. The commander of the Golden Company, which was slightly reduced by Visenyas and Daenerys attack some weeks ago, seems to hone in on the location, but he is too late. The gated wall behind the Golden Company explodes in an enormous fireball, destroying a huge section of the wall and consuming dozens of soldiers as the fire spews forth in a rage. Drogon flies over the destruction. This is the signal for the army. The Unsullied charge, followed by the mounted Dothraki. Members of the Golden Company scream and writhe in agony as they burn. Screamingly wildly, the Dothroaki gallop through the broken wall into King's Landing. Continuing full speed, they rip through the Lannister soldiers just inside the walls, speeding through the street. One by one, the Lannister soldiers fall like dominoes, no match for the ferocity of their charge. Behind the Dothraki, the Stark forces reach the wall, roaring as they enter the city. Above, Drogon flies along the wall and destroys all scorpions. The Lannister soldiers don’t even stand a chance against the Unsullied, Dothraki and Northmen.

.

Qyburn passes the queen`s most loyal knight to approach Cersei.

“Your Grace.”, he greets her with a bow of his head, looking worried out of the window.

“All we need is one good shot.”, Cersei insists.

“The scorpions have all been destroyed, Your Grace.”, he reports.

“The remaining Iron Fleet hold Blackwater Bay. Euron brought one of the dragons down. He can bring down another.”

“Your Grace, the Iron Fleet is burning. The gates have been breached. The Golden Company …“

“Our men will fight harder than sell swords ever could. They will defend their queen to the last man.”, Cersei replies confidently, but can't hide the spark of uncertainty in her eyes. Her hand nervously caresses her slightly swollen belly.

“Yes, Your Grace.”

“The Red Keep has never fallen. It won't fall today.”

Drogon roars in the distance and Qyburn exits. Cersei takes a sip of her wine, while she is watching Drogon, who lands on the city wall, after he burned all the scorpions on the wall. Daenerys will not win. She must not win. The witch's words come back to Cersei. ‘You'll be queen, for a time. Then comes another, younger, more beautiful, to cast you down and take all you hold dear.’ Will she die today together with her unborn child?

Suddenly her guard draws his sword. Cersei jerks around, only to see her most loyal knight fall lifeless to the ground. A woman with silver hair and deep brown eyes is enthroned above him. She wears armor made from dragon scales with the sigils of House Targaryen and House Stark on her breastplate.

"You lost, Cersei. But you already know that, don't you?", Visenya says, wiping the knight's blood from her blade and putting it back into her belt on her hip.

"The hidden Targaryen.", Cersei realizes, shocked. "A lot of people said I was crazy when I told them there is another Targaryen."

"It seems like your former husband didn't kill all of us."

"What do you want from me?", Cersei asks tense.

"I'm here to make sure you stay here to bow to Daenerys when she takes her rightful place on our family's throne."

"I'm not going to bend my knee to a foreign whore."

"But you will, otherwise your beloved brother will lose his head.", Visenya warns her.

As if on cue, Arya enters the room, together with Jaime who lays in chains. Jaime's eyes widen when he sees Visenya. Arya grins happily.

"That's impossible. You were death. We burned your body.", Jaime breathes in disbelief.

"I knew you were behind all this.", says Arya happily when she realizes that her assumptions that Visenya is still alive were correct. “I am glad you are alive.”

Everyone present looks out of the window when the bells ring. The city surrenders. Visenya breathes a sigh of relief.

"Your reign is over.", Visenya says coldly and turns to Cersei. "Surrender."

Cersei stands up and raises her chin defiantly.

"Never.", she snorts. "It is time for you to give up. Qyburn and my men have placed barrels of Wildfyre in the catacombs that leach under the whole city. If your dragons and your army do not disappear soon, the city will burn."

"You sound like the mad king. It seems, madness is probably not only found among the Targaryens.", Visenya jokes and shakes her head with a giggle.

Cersei frowns in confusion. Arya and Jaime also look worriedly at Visenya, who doesn't seem to take all of this seriously.

"Oh yes. I almost forgot to mention it. It may be that I spent the last few days spreading some sand in the catacombs.", the Targaryen says sweetly. "It occurs to me. Wildfyre doesn't burn when it comes into contact with sand. Too bad."

"You little bitch.", Cersei curses angrily.

"Surrender or is your child's life worth nothing to you?" Visenya asks seriously. "Oh, I forgot: Gold shall be their crowns and gold their shrouds. You`ll be queen for a time, then comes another, younger more beautiful to cast you down and take all you hold dear. You were cruel even then. Killed your best friend so that no one would find out what the witch said to you that night. Luckily for you, you can change your future. Jaime, you and your unborn child don't have to die today."

"What are you talking about?", Jaime asks, confused.

"I saw you die in the Red Keep. Right under where we stand now. In the cellars, next to the skull of Balerion the Black Dread."

Jaime looks uncertainly at Cersei, who returns his gaze with the same uncertainty.

"Daenerys won't let us live.", Cersei doubts.

"She will. She is a just queen.", Visenya promises her, relieved, because Cersei seems to consider to surrender.

"That's more than you deserve. I wish I had killed Joffrey. I came here to kill you, but even if you are a monster, your unborn child is innocent.", Arya says coldly and let go of Jaime. "Winter came for House Lannister."

"You are Arya Stark.", Cersei states.

Before Arya can answer anything, there is a loud screeching. Visenya jerks to the window, only to see Drogon swinging himself into the air.

"No. No. No.", Visenya gasps in panic, whereupon Arya, Cersei and Jaime look at the young woman in surprise.

Visenya closes her eyes and tries desperately to establish a connection with Drogon. She can sense Daenerys` desperation. Bran has Drogon under his control and there is nothing Daenerys can do about it.

"Come on.", Visenya whispers and tries to free Drogon from Bran's mind control.

The lives of millions of innocent people are at stake.

.

Anxiety. Pure fear and panic pervade Daenerys when Drogon takes to the skies against her will and is about to lay the city in ruins.

"Drogon. Stop. Please stop.", she begs crying when the tallest of her sons starts to spew fire on the innocent people below. She tries hard to re-establish a bond with her dragon, but the spark that she usually feels is frozen.

"Drogon. Stop it. Please stop it.", Daenerys yells and pulls at the shed she is holding on to.

Suddenly Drogon brakes abruptly. Daenerys breathes a sigh of relief when she sees that Jon is blocking Drogon's path on Rhaegal.

When Jon saw that Drogon was attacking the city even though it had surrendered, he steered Rhaegal to the black dragon to stop him. At first, he thought Daenerys had ordered Drogon to act like this, but when he sees her distraught and frightened face, he immediately knows that something is wrong.

When his gaze turns to Drogon, all color disappears from his face. Drogon's eyes are white. Someone warged into the dragon. He knows he has to get Drogon away from the people below, but as long as Daenerys is on him, there is nothing he can do. Before he can think his thoughts through, a purple creature flies past him. He just sees Lyraxa grabbing Daenerys and lifting her off Drogons back before Meraxo throws himself on the black and red dragon and pushes him away from the city.

Startled, he turns around when Lyraxa drops Daenerys with the last of her strength behind him on Rhaegal. For a split second, the little dragon's eyes are white before they change to their normal bright orange-yellow hue and she settles on Rhaegal.

His gaze falls on Daenerys again. Her face is wet with tears and she is trembling all over. Immediately he pulls her close and puts his arms protectively around her delicate body, which is wrapped in armor.

"Sh. Everything is fine. It's over.", he whispers soothingly and steers Rhaegal to a wall to land on it.

"I ... I had no control. I didn't want this. Drogon's just ... I didn't want this. Jon, please believe me.", she whimpers.

"I believe you Dany. I saw his eyes.", Jon breathes and kisses her forehead.

"They will hate me for it.", Daenerys croaks and looks at the place where Drogon started to turn the houses and people to rubble and ashes.

"They won't. We know the truth."

"Who would be there?", Daenerys asks, wiping the tears from his face. "You don't think that Visenya …"

"No. Visenya ... she was the one steering Lyraxa to get you to safety."

"But who was it then?"

"Visenya knew this was going to happen.", Jon realizes in disbelief, trying to ban the thinking what erupts in his head. "I think it was ... No, that can't be.", Jon interrupts himself and looks lost in thought into the distance.

"Jon. We both know who else is capable of warging in animals."

"It can't be. It can't be him.", Jon stammers and looks fearfully into Daenerys eyes.

"I know that it is unimaginable. B ... but think about it. Someone warged in Vhagario and flown him straight to the Night King. Visenya had visions and you heard Cedric. Before the Long Night she had one that she was so scared that she didn't want to talk about it. He was the only one who saw her die and he didn't tell us about it."

"He's my brother."

"He's not the little boy you grew up with, Jon. And you know that.", Daenerys tries to make it clear to her husband.

"We should look after the others.", Jon evades and directs Rhaegal to the Red Keep.

.

"Visenya. What just happened?", Arya asks after the girl sees Drogon start torching the city. "Why did Daenerys want to burn the city?"

"She didn't want that.", Visenya replies and leaves the room when she sees that Rhaegal is flying to the Red Keep.

"Looks like she's just as mad as her father.", Cersei comments.

Visenya jerks around and presses the former queen against the nearest wall.

"Dare to say something derogatory about Daenerys again and I'll silence you. Or Jon. It depends on which of us is faster."

"I don't think Eddard Stark's Bastard would be able to kill a pregnant woman."

"Who said anything about killing. Your child survives even without your tongue.", Visenya replies dryly, pushing Cersei further in front of her.

.

Visenya wants to talk to Jon and Daenerys alone first, so she turns Jamie and Cersei over to Grey Worm and some of his men to lock them in the dungeons for the time being. She leaves the Red Keep with Arya, Rhaegal lands on one of the walls. He flattens himself to the ground so Jon and Daenerys can dismount. Jon dismounts first and helps Daenerys.

"What in seven hells just happened?", Jon asks angrily as he wraps his arm protectively around Daenerys' waist, who has now recovered. Her eyes are still swollen and red from crying. Before Visenya can answer him, Selena runs to her with Kinvara in tow.

"Kinvara can't keep the protection up much longer. He's too strong." she tells Visenya in a panic.

Confused, Jon, Daenerys, and Arya look at the Red Priestess, whose eyes are shimmering red. She trembles from the exertion while mumbling something unintelligible. It sounds like a mantra.

"I can take over." Visenya says determinedly.

"Are you sure? If you do that, there's no way back." Kinvara points out while continuing to try to show Bran a false vision of Daenerys burning down King's Landing to make the three-eyed raven think he has won.

"I'm ready." Visenya replies stubbornly, although she's paralyzed inside with fear. "You know what to do when something goes wrong?" she asks Kinvara, who sadly nods.

"What are you up to?" Jon asks confused, unable to hide the panic in his voice.

"Everything will be fine, Jon." Visenya assures her brother and gives him, Daenerys and Arya one more encouraging smile before turning to Kinvara.

"Ready?" Visenya asks and Kinvara nods.

Visenya closes her eyes and concentrates on the cold that lies dormant inside her. She has suppressed the Night King's power since she was resurrected, but now she releases it and welcomes it with open arms. She feels the cold course through her veins from where the Night King thrust his sword into her chest. The dark magic slowly spreads through her body. She gasps with effort as she reaches her brain. She almost feels her soul rotting away and her thoughts darkening. A cold serenity spreads through her and her facial features relax. When the cold has reached every cell of her body, she opens her eyes. Startled, her family members flinch when they see Visenya's eyes. Her eyes, once brown, were now ice blue, like the Night King's. Her veins are blue against her pale skin, and a sheet of ice has formed beneath her feet. She gives a curt nod to Kinvara, who stops trying to fool Bran. Immediately, Visenya begins to speak in an ancient language and fog forms around her. Her voice sounds strange and old, and her face twists into a devilish grin as she realizes how easy it is to fool the three-eyed raven with her newfound power. She is so relieved that her sacrifice was not in vain. Although Visenya lost her soul, she is able to save her family.

“What is happening to her?”, asks Daenerys worried and horrified.

Kinvara takes one last look at Visenya, who is busy maintaining the deception before leading Jon, Daenerys, and Arya out of Viyenya's earshot. Selena stays with Visenya to keep an eye on her. In the distance, Kinvara stops and takes a deep breath.

“Visenya was never destined to live. Aegon Targaryen was to be Lyanna Stark and Rhaegar Targaryen's only child. Many centuries ago, when the first Three-Eyed Raven was created, it was intended to always remain neutral and not interfere with human history. Shortly before his death he had a vision of the future. The Three-Eyed Raven's magic would become more distorted with each wielder. Darker and more dangerous. He knew he had to prevent what was shown to him in the vision from happening, so he asked the Children of the Forest for help. Together they created the creature you call the Night King. Only he alone would be powerful enough to stop the Three-Eyed Raven if it strayed from its path. As the Wall was built by King Brandon Stark, or better known as Bran the Builder, the children of the forest knew it would be difficult to keep the balance because, unlike the Night King, the Three-Eyed Raven can easily cross the Wall.”

“The children of the forest created Visenya.”, Arya realizes in surprise.

“Only a very powerful Greenseer can channel and control the power of the Night King. But that comes with a price.”, Kinvara continues after she nods, looking at Visenya who is absorbed in her mantra.

“Are you saying that my sister shouldn't have existed and is now the new Night King?”, asks Jon stunned and the panic is clear in his voice.

“The Visenya you knew and loved died during the Long Night when the Night King thrust his sword into her chest. When she destroyed him, his power passed to her. It has darkened her soul and occupied her spirit.”

“She knew what was coming and willingly let the Night King kill her to be strong enough to save us all.”, summarizes Daenerys sadly.

“If she hadn't, the Three-Eyed Raven would have managed to invade your mind. He could have gotten you to burn down all of King's Landing. He would have made Jon stick a dagger in your heart and the raven would have taken your place as king of the seven kingdoms.”

Daenerys and Jon look at each other with chic eyes and open mouths.

“I ... I would never do that.”, Jon defends himself and jerkily turns to Kinvara.

“If it weren't for Visenya, things would have been different. Arya and Sansa would be the only survivors of the Stark family. You, Daenerys, would have lost everything. Your best friend, your second dragon, your life. You, Jon, would have turned your back on Daenerys and killed her together with your unborn child. You would have knelt before Bran and then returned to the Night's Watch.”

“Why should I do that?”, Jon asks horrified.

“Because things would have been different. You would not have found out your true origins until you were in Winterfell from your friend Samwell Tarly. You didn't have time to come to terms with the fact that you loved your aunt. And you wouldn't have married her either, because you thought you were a worthless bastard. Also, the Three-Eyed Raven would have had a hand in directing things the way he wanted.”, Kinvara tries to explain.

Jon looks at the Red Priestess in shock before running his hand over his face and dancing restlessly. He can't believe what he would have done. He cannot believe it. How could he do that to the woman he loves and cherishes above all else. How could he do that to his innocent unborn child. How could he be such a fool and fall for the lies, intrigues and deceptions of the Three-Eyed Ravens. He begins to replay all of the activities of the raven. He would have revealed his identity without his consent. He lied to them about Visenya's death. He urged Sam to make him stand against Daenerys. He didn't do anything during the Long Night, despite being the most powerful Greenseer. He knew they couldn't defeat the Night King with dragon fire, but he pretended not to. How could they all be so blind. Brandon Stark is dead. His body serves only as a vessel for the Three-Eyed Raven. Jon is snapped out of his thoughts when Daenerys blocks his path and grabs his clenched fists.

“Everything she said could have happened, but it didn't, Jon. None of that really happened.”, Daenerys says to her husband.

“I could never harm you. I hope you know that.”, he says in a broken voice.

“I know.”, Daenerys replies with a soft smile.

She puts her hand on his cheek and caresses it gently. He closes his eyes with a sigh and leans into her touch before taking her hand and placing a gentle kiss on it.

“Wait what!”, Arya says, wide-eyed at the two before looking back and forth between them. Caught, Jon turns to his little sister with Daenerys in his arms.

“Oh, I...”, he tries to explain but Arya interrupts him.

“You're married and you're going to be a father and you won't tell me?”, she is freaking out.

Jon falls silent and exchanges a worried look with Daenerys before turning back to Arya, who has her hands on her hips and is glaring at her brother accusingly. Her reproachful gaze quickly turns into a broad smile. She goes to the two and pulls them into a hug. Surprised and relieved, the two return the hug.

“I am so happy for you.”, Arya says after they break the hug. “But next time I want to hear it from you.”, Arya Jon reproachfully warns.

“You already knew it?”, asked Daenerys in surprise.

“Everyone with eyes in their heads knows it.”, Arya replies, rolling her eyes and grinning.
“You aren't very good at hiding your affection for one another.”, Visenya agrees, who went to them unnoticed.

Startled, Daenerys, Jon, Arya and Kinvara turn to the woman with the ice blue eyes and blue lips standing a few feet away, arms folded.

“How do you feel?”, asks Kinvara worried.

“To be honest, I don't feel anything at all right now.”, Visenya replies in an emotionless voice and puts her hand on the place where the Night King has thrusted his sword into her. “You should show yourselves and talk to the people. They are scared and have no idea who their new king and queen will be.”, she says to Jon and Daenerys.

“But I do not want to...”

“Be a king? Well, it's too late for that. You are married to the queen.”, Visenya interrupts her brother. Jon falls silent and looks concerned at his sister. Her emotionless voice and her cool demeanour make him tremble inside. “You are Aegon Targaryen. Sixth of your name and heir to the Iron Throne. Ditch your 'I'm a bastard and I don't deserve this' attitude, get out there and be the king the seven kingdoms need.”

“Finally someone who says what I've been thinking all along.”, Davos says behind them, who has quietly approached.

Only then does he realize with whom he has agreed. He eyes Visenya for a while before shaking his head with a sigh.

“I`ll not going to ask.”, he says and gestures with his hands to Visenya. He then turns to Jon and Daenerys. “All Lannister soldiers have surrendered. Robb, Gray Worm and Cedric coordinate the peacekeeping. There doesn't seem to be any rebellion, but people are unsettled. They don't know how to proceed now. You should speak to them. Both of you.”

Daenerys looks at Jon uncertainly.

“Don't worry. Almost the whole city hates Cersei. Once you assure them that they are now safe and can move on in peace, most will accept you if not love you.”, Visenya assures her family members.

“I agree. They heard what you did for the slaves in Essos.”, says Kinvara to Daenerys. “The Red Priests made sure of that.”

“And what about the people whose homes, families and friends Drogon burned to ashes?”, Daenerys asks concerned, bowing her head in shame.

“I've already checked the damage.” admits Davos hesitantly. From Daenery's facial expression, he realizes that it was an accident and that she didn't do it voluntarily. “About ten houses were completely or partially destroyed. Luckily there weren't many people there. I estimate no more than forty people were killed or injured.”

Daenerys facial features slips away. She jerkily turns away from the group so no one sees her coming tears. What has she done? She should have tried harder to stop Drogon. How can she be the queen of these people when she killed innocent people. When Jon puts his hand gently on her shoulder, she is startled from her thoughts.

“It wasn’t your fault.”, he assures her and wipes the tears from her face.

Pregnancy makes her a lot more emotional.

“I could have done more. she sobs and tries to suppress another tear. There was nothing you could have done, Daenerys. I shouldn't have been so cowardly. Had I allowed the Night King's power sooner, I would have been strong enough to free Drogon from the Three-Eyed Raven's mind control. I hesitated because I was afraid of what it would do to me. Now I just find my behaviour ridiculous. My soul was already lost the day I allowed the Night King to kill me. The people who died in that firestorm are on me.”

“This isn’t true. You gave everything up to keep us safe.”, Daenerys replies and everyone present nods in agreement.

“It doesn’t matter. The only thing that matters now is you. Aegon and Daenerys Targaryen. King and Queen of the Seven Kingdoms. Protectors of the realm. And your children. The prince and princess that was promised.”, Visenya answers and even when she no longer feels any emotions, she smiles slightly at the surprised looks her brother and aunt give her. Arya and Davos also look at her in surprise. Jon's mentor clears his throat and looks back and forth between Jon and Daenerys.

“Did I miss something or did she just say King and Queen and children?”, he asks.

“Aye, Daenerys and I are married.”

“And I'm pregnant.”, she confirms with a smile.

“Congratulations.”, Davos congratulates the two, still very surprised but also delighted. Then something occurs to him. “Aegon Targaryen?”

“Aye, I am the legitimate son of Lyanna Stark and Rhaegar Targaryen and Visenya is my twin sister.”

“After seeing living dragons and undead walking people, nothing surprises me anymore. I always knew you were special, Jon.”, he says proudly and gives Jon a friendly pat on the shoulder.

“It's King Jon now.”, jokes Jon, grinning.

“Of course, Your grace.”, Davos answers and curtsies.

“Didn't you forget something?”, Visenya reminds her family, who look at each other and then nod.

“With Tyrion no longer my hand and Jon and I ruling together, we need someone else to do this important job.”, Daenerys begins. “We've thought about it for a long time, but there aren't many that we can absolutely trust.”

“We need someone we not only trust, but who can speak for the people we will rule over.”, Jon continuous. “Ser Davos Seaworth. You grew up in the flea hole and you know how the people there are. Daenerys and I want to help people and improve their lives. We hope for your advice as the hand of the king and queen to achieve this aim.”

Stunned, Davos first looks at Jon and then at Daenerys. The two give him a few minutes to think. Being the Hand of the King and Queen is not an easy job. Davos’ heart is pounding as he kneels down in front of the two Targaryen.

“It would be my honour to advise and support you. I hope I deserve it.”, he honestly admits.

First, he was the Hand of Stannis Baratheon, then of Jon Snow, and now he shall be the Hand of the King and Queen of all the Seven Kingdoms.

“You do.”, Jon promises his mentor.

“Rise, Davos Seaworth. Hand of the King and Queen of the Seven Kingdoms.”, Daenerys asks him, whereupon the old man slowly gets up again.

Chapter Text

In the days that follow, the armies restore order in King's Landing. With the days getting shorter and winter almost arriving in the West, food is becoming scarce. On Daenerys and Jon's orders, blankets and clothing are distributed to the poorer parts of the city. The food is divided as fairly as possible. Many of the people are happy about the new king and queen, but just as many do not trust the foreign queen and her bastard king. Eddard Stark is still known as a traitor in the capital. That also makes his alleged son a traitor. Since the loyalty of the Lannister soldiers is not guaranteed, they are each accompanied by two Dothraki, Unsullied or Norsemen. In addition, they are not allowed near the king and certainly not the queen. The dungeon where Jamie and Cersei are being held is guarded solely by Daenerys' most loyal soldiers. Visenya has made it her mission to find out who died in Drogon's flames. She cares for the survivors of the deceased and ensures that the incident does not contain any dangerous repercussions for the Targaryen monarchs. The destroyed houses are rebuilt by some soldiers and a commemorative plaque is erected. That's more than Cersei ever did after destroying the great sept of Baelor with wildfire. Despite the many efforts and improvements that Daenerys and Jon cause, the suspicion persists. Cersei has put the most terrifying tales of the Mad King's daughter in people's minds. Only few citizens come to the throne room every day to talk to the royal couple. Jon is adjusting to his new role as king, but he's very glad that Daenerys does most of the talking. She is a born queen and has patience of steel. Most of the time.

Believing that Daenerys burned down all of King's Landing and was then killed by Jon, the rest of the Stark family travel to the capital. Visenya managed to permanently embed the deception in the memory of the Three Eyed Raven. In addition to the stressful everyday life as king and queen, Jon and Daenerys keep stealing away to enjoy a little togetherness. Both are really looking forward to their children. Daenerys won't be able to hide her growing belly under her clothes any longer. Missandei and Illy try to support their queen as much as possible. It's not just the mood swings and morning sickness that bother the expectant mother. The constant fear that she could also lose these children accompanies her like a dark shadow. Since there is no Maester they can trust in King's Landing, Jon flies on Rhaegal to Winterfell to bring Gaius to King’s Landing.

“How is she?”, Gaius asks as he and Jon ride through the streets of King's Landing accompanied by some soldiers.

“Her morning sickness is getting better by the day, but her mood swings are getting worse.”, Jon replies, smiling wryly.

He is one of the few who gets to feel it properly. One moment she wants him near her, the next she's throwing him out of the room. The two of them are just cuddling and then she'd rather take a ride on Drogon over King's Landing. Jon tries to be there for his wife as much as possible, even if she doesn't make it easy for him. He loves her more than anything and would walk through fire for her.

“I'm afraid you have to go through this, Your Grace.”, replies Gaius and giggles heartily.

“Nothing better than that if it means she'll soon be able to hold her children in her arms. Healthy and alive.”, he answers, looking in the distance. Daenerys shares not all her fears with him, but he is getting better in knowing when she has them again.

“She still worries about stillbirth again.”, concludes Gaius worried and looks at Jon knowingly. “What about you?”

“Don’t get me wrong. Of course, I want to have two healthy children, but I'm also concerned that something will happen to her. My mother died giving birth. Rhaella died giving birth to Daenerys. My brother's first wife died after childbirth. I'm afraid of losing her. I can't live without her.”, Jon admits his fears.

“Many women die giving birth to their firstborn. Rhaella wasn't young when she gave birth to your wife. Your mother was very young. Talisa wasn't made to bear a child.”

Jon stops his horse. They have arrived at the gates. Both men dismount and hand over their horses to the soldiers. Together they make their way to the entrance.

“What did you mean by Talisa wasn't made to bear a child?”, Jon asks quietly while they walk trough the long corridors of the Red Keep. Four soldiers follow them to keep them safe, because since Jon is king now, he isn’t wearing his sword all the time.

“Some women are made to bear children and some are not. I never told Robb. He's been through so much already.”

“So, Daenerys isn’t made to bear a child too?”, he asks worried.

“In the opposite. She was born to be a mother. First with her dragons and then with your children. Daenerys only lost Rhaego because of the curse the witch put on her. I'm not very familiar with the fate stuff, but if I understood Visenya correctly, only you were able to break the curse. Daenerys and you are fire and ice and your children are the prince and princess that were promised. Why would fate want one of them to die?”

“I don't believe in fate.”, Jon replies not convinced.

“Then believe an old experienced man telling you that both your wife and children are strong and healthy. I will do my best by taking care of them. I promise. They gonna live. All of them.”

“I won't believe that until Daenerys is healthy and happy holding her two strong and healthy babies in her arms.”, Jon clarifies.

“Of course, Your grace.”, the Maester replies, following his king who quickens his steps, eager to be reunited with his wife as soon as possible.

.

“As far as I can tell both babies are well developed and strong.”, reports Gaius after thoroughly examining Daenerys under Jon's watchful eyes.

“These are wonderful news.”, Daenerys thanks him with a grin and pulls Jon into a soft kiss.

“I'll leave you alone now, Your Graces.”, Gaius decides, bowing his head respectfully.

Daenerys breaks away from Jon and says goodbye to Gaius before being taken back by her husband. Grinning, the old man leaves the royal couple's room. He's really happy for both of them. They deserve to be happy and have many children. Then his thoughts wander to Visenya. Cold claws encircle his heart. He heard what became of the woman he raised. Even if he is afraid of what would await him, he goes in search of her. He has to see her. As he wanders the hallways, he nearly run into Illy. He is pleased to greet the young woman whom he was also allowed to see growing up.

“You must be looking for Visenya.”, she says after embracing the old Maester, who was like the grandfather she never had to her. Gaius nods and she shows him the way.

Arriving at her chambers, Gaius meets Cedric, who is arguing with the guards outside the door.

“I want to see her.”, he snaps aggressively at the two Unsullied.

“I already said. She doesn't want visitors.”, the soldier repeats patiently.

Before Cadric can charge at the two innocent soldiers who are only following the king's sister's orders, Gaius grabs his arm.

“Calm down, Cedric. There will be a good reason why she doesn't want to see anyone.”, the old man talks to the young man he has also seen growing up.

He doesn't even want to imagine how painful it must be for Cedric. The woman behind the door is not the Visenya they all knew and loved. The woman she once was is gone. Her fire has gone out and in its place is ice.

Suddenly the two soldiers freeze and their eyes turn ice blue. Startled, Cedric and Gaius retreat. With rigid movements they remove the barrier they have crossed in front of the door and open it. The two men enter hesitantly. As soon as they enter the room, an ice-cold wind blows against them. Shivering, they fold their arms to warm themselves a little. The floor of the high room was covered with a thin layer of snow and the walls sealed with a layer of ice. They look around the room, amazed and shocked at the same time. It looks like they are in an ice palace. Hardly any spot was not covered by ice or snow. Gaius spots Visenya standing with her back to them on the balcony outside. Her white hair flutters slightly in the wind. When Cedric recognizes her, he freezes in motion. The last time he saw her, her lifeless body lay on a pyre, burning. No one but Kinvara knows how it was possible for her body to burn in front of her family and friends and yet she stands before them. More or less alive. Illy's soft voice tears the two men out of their rigidity.

“I made you something to eat.”, she says to Visenya, who is still standing with her back to the three visitors. Gaius and Cedric shudder as she answers Visenya.

“You know very well that I don't eat anything.”

Her voice is emotionless and cold. She sounds strange and old.

“But you have to eat something, otherwise your body won't be able to cope with it much longer.”, replies Illy and looks worried at the woman she has always looked up to. Visenya turns abruptly and fixes the young cook with an icy gaze.

“Look at me, Illy.”, she says and points down at herself. “Is there anything human left?”

Illy is already used to the sight, but Gaius and Cedric have blank horror written on their faces. Visenya's once warm brown eyes are now ice blue and lifeless. Her once silver-blonde hair is snow-white and covered with small ice crystals. Her rosy lips are now a deep blue and her face is sunken. Her cheekbones stand out and blue veins and ice crystals stand out on her cheeks. Her skin is almost transparent and has a bluish shimmer. She almost looks like the female version of the Night King. Visenya avoided Cedric because she was afraid of his reaction, but now that she sees him, she feels nothing. It's almost as if she is no longer able to feel emotions or feel anything in general.

“I have prepared your favorite meal for you. Even if you're not hungry, you can try it.”, Illy keeps trying and ignores Visenya's question.

“In less than a week, the Three-Eyed Raven will reach the gates of King's Landing. Do you seriously think I'm wasting my time eating?”, Visenya hisses and mist begins to form around her hands.

When Illy sees the fog, she looks anxiously at Visenya and slowly walks backwards.

“No, please not again. I am so sorry. Please. Don’t.”, she begs and slowly moves away from the woman of ice. Visenya clenches her hands into fists and desperately tries to suppress the emerging surge of power. Her eyes flicker between brown and ice blue.

“Do you have any idea how hard it is to stay in control? Do you have any idea what it's like to have the constant urge to wipe out everything and everyone in the seven kingdoms? Do you have any idea what it's like to look into the eyes of Visenya's family and friends and feel absolutely nothing?”

Illy shakes her head hastily and sobs softly. It has happened many times that she made Visenya angry and then she lost control. Visenya closes her eyes and takes a deep breath. Blood drips from their closed fists onto the snow-covered ground.

“Don't come near me ever again. For your own safety.”, she says monotonously to Illy, who lowers her head and nods slightly.

Then the young woman turns and hastily leaves the room. There isn't even the slightest reaction on Visenya's face. Cedric and Gaius are finally convinced that the woman before them is no longer Visenya. But Gaius doesn't want to give up.

“Jon brought me out of Winterfell to look after Daenerys and the children. All three are strong and well.”, he reports hoping to get some reaction from Visenya.

“I know.”, Visenya replies curtly while wiping the blood from her hands on her pants. “If I fail and the Three-Eyed Raven wins, they'll never see the light of day. The power of the Night King grows weaker every day. It takes a lot of energy to keep up the deception I use to fool the Three-Eyed Raven. I hope Visenya's sacrifice was not in vain. Too many lives are at stake.”

“Why are you talking like you're not Visenya?”, Gaius asks confused, whereupon she laughs joylessly.

“I don't know if you're being that naive or just stupid. Visenya Targaryen died the moment she allowed the Night King to plunge his sword into her chest. Her body is a vessel for my power. That was her only purpose. She lived for it. She died for it. Let her go.”, Visenya orders the two, even if that's not entirely true.

She has all the memories and she's still in her body, but it's better if everyone who loved her let her go. She will not survive the encounter with the Three-Eyed Raven, and if she does, she will have a debt to pay that will force her to leave Westeros, her family and her friends forever.

“If you'll excuse me. I need my rest now to renew the deception.”

Gaius sighs in surrender and leaves the room. Cedric doesn't budge.

“You too.”, says Visenya emphatically.

“I do not believe you. I don't think Visenya is gone. I know you and I know you're in there beneath all the ice and hate.”

“Believe what you want to believe.”, she says emotionless.

Cedric doesn't want to give up Visenya. He loves her more than anything in the world. He doesn't want to accept that she's gone. He doesn't want to believe that he's losing his only family.

“Visenya, please. You're the only family I have.”, he begs and a few tears flow down his cheeks.

Visenya knows that the sight would have hurt her, but she feels absolutely nothing.

“Visenya wasn't the only family you have.”

“My father is dead. My aunt is dead. Jon is dead. I have no family anymore.”, Cedric replies in a hoarse voice while wiping away his tears.

“Through the power of the Night King, I can see all that was, is, and will be. If you want to know, I can tell you who your mother was.”, offers Visenya.

Not out of goodwill, but simply because she wants to get rid of him. He keeps her from doing what she was meant to do. Defeat the Three-Eyed Raven.

Cedric falls silent and thinks. He always wanted to know who his mother is. Jon just told him that his aunt Ashara gave him to Jon. Maybe she's still alive. He nods hesitantly.

“Aye, I want to know who she is and if she's still alive.”

The next moment, Visenya's eyes roll into their sockets and her eyes are completely white, like the three-eyed raven when using his power. Cedric is waiting tensely. It feels like hours when Visenya's eyes roll back again. For the first time since accepting the power of the Night King, emotion fills her face. Amazement.

“Are you sure you want to hear the truth?”, she asks Cedric after her features have smoothed out.

Cedric looks at her speculatively for a few seconds before nodding. He finally wants to know who he really is.

“Your mother is Ashara Dayne.”

“What! That can’t be true ...”

“... and your father is not Arthur Dayne.”, Visenya continues monotonously.

Surprised, Cedric falls silent and looks confused at Visenya.

“Your name isn't really Cedric Dayne. Ashara named you after your father, but Jon gave you another name so no one would know.”, she continuous.

Cedric looks at Visenya in shock. He's questioning his very existence.

“Who is my father. Tell me!”, Cedric almost shouts at her.

His frustration and helplessness triggers something in Visenya. Her eyes flicker and turn brown. For a brief moment she feels something. Compassion and sympathy. Wide-eyed, Cedric looks into Visenya's brown eyes, which he loves so much.

“Before I tell you who your father is, I want you to know that Ashara only wanted to protect you. Your father doesn't know you exist. She wanted to spare you a life as a bastard and she knew she wouldn’t live much longer. That's why she gave you away.”

Her voice has regained some of its old warmth. For a short moment she regained her control back. This is just too important.

“You are the son of Lady Ashara Dayne and Lord Eddard Stark of Winterfell.”

Chapter Text

“They will reach the city gates in the early afternoon.”, Grey Worm reports.

Daenerys, Jon, Robb, Cedric, Davos, Qhono, Gaius, Missandei, Kinvara and Arya are sitting in the conference room making final preparations for the arrival of the Three-Eyed Raven and the Starks.

“Do all the Lords and Ladies know about our plan?”, Daenerys asks, exchanging a quick look with Jon, who is squeezing her hand under the table encouragingly.

She has hardly been able to sleep for the past few days. Should the Three-Eyed Raven win, their children will never see the light of day.

“Aye, Visenya explained everything to them in detail. I don't think they will allow themselves a mistake. She can be very persuasive.”, Davos assures his queen.

The old man knows that she is very worried. Only a few people know about the two Targaryen-Babys. Daenerys tries to hide her growing belly with layers of clothing, but her hand, which constantly runs down her stomach when she's nervous, betrays her. When this is all over, they will tell everyone. Davos understands that the two parents-to-be still want to keep it a secret. These are dangerous times.

“These are good news.”, Daenerys replies, giving the old man a grateful nod.

She likes the old man. Davos is a great help and an even better advisor and hand to them. He has lived in the poorer parts of the city for a long time and has the best ideas to improve people's lives.

“So, the plan is set. We will help kill our little brother.”, interjects Robb.

He's not entirely convinced of the plan.

“We've already talked about it. Our brother is gone. His body serves as a vessel for the Three-Eyed Raven to deceive us.”, replies Arya sternly.

“I wish there was another way. You don't have to be there if you don't want to.”, Jon suggests.

“Mother will never forgive us for that.”, says Robb and sighs dejectedly.

Arya is about to say something when a crow screeches. In panic, everyone present turns to the black bird whose eyes are white. The Three-Eyed raven warges into a bird every day to see if everything is going according to plan. He sits on the windowsill and looks at the assembled people. The next moment his small chest is pierced by a sharp icicle. The whole room cools down as Visenya goes to the windowsill and takes the bird in her hand. Those present sit frozen and watch as ice detaches from Visenya's hand and transfers to the lifeless bird. Within seconds the raven is covered with a layer of ice.

“I hope that was the last raven to die because of him. Soon it will all be over.”, Visenya murmurs and throws the frozen animal on the ground.

With a bang, the little body shatters into a thousand tiny shards of ice.

When Visenya turns to the assembled people, they have to realize with horror that the condition of Visenya's body has continued to deteriorate. She's just skin and bones and looks like she's over a hundred years old. They can see every bone on her skin and her eyes are sunken even further into their sockets. It breaks the hearts of all those present to see the woman, who once beamed with joie de vivre, like this. As she approaches the table, she trips over her own feet and grabs a fog table. Where her hand touches the wood, a layer of ice forms that quickly spreads across the surface. Visenya grumbles and grabs the collar around her neck to yank it off. Kinvara gave her one of the Red Priestesses' collars so that her body would last long enough. The Night King's magic is like poison to her mortal body. The magic drains her of everything she needs to survive. It permeates her mind and makes her body weaker every day. The Children of the Forest could have transformed her as they had transformed the Night King thousands of years before, but then Visenya would have lost her mind and killed everything and everyone. In her current state, she finds it easier to stay in control. As much as possible to focus on the mission.

“Why did you do that?”, Kinvara asks upset and worried as Visenya throws the collar in front of her nose.

“It makes me weaker and curbs my power. I can't face the Three-Eyed Ravens like that.”, she replies.

Suddenly Visenya feels something coming out of her nose. Confused, she runs her hand over it. It's black and blue blood. Tainted Blood.

“See what happens when you take off the collar. Your body can't take it much longer.”

“I'm fine. Do not worry about me. I've been dead for a long time. Soon my body will be gone too.”

Kinvara replies, but Visenya doesn't listen. She looks out the window because she felt something.

“Are you even listening to me.”,Kinvara asks at the end of her patience.

How can someone be so stubborn.

“He is here. The Three-Eyed Raven is here.”

Chapter Text

Everyone present, hastily jumps up. Qhono leaves the room to prepare his men. As Visenya walks to the door, she trips again and crashes into one of the other side tables.

“Your body is too weak.”, Kinvara admonishes her and takes the collar.

Visenya closes her eyes and takes a deep breath. She never thought it would come to this, but she has no choice.

“You're right.”, she agrees with Kinvara, who pauses in surprise.

Visenya slowly straightens up and looks at the Red Priestess who has resurrected her twice.

“Give me the dragonglass dagger.”, she orders.

“What! Have you lost your mind.”, Kinvara yells at her, knowing exactly what Visenya is up to.

“I do not have another choice. You said yourself that my body is too weak, so give me the damn dagger.”

“No.” replies Kinvara and moves away from Visenya.

The others look back and forth between the two women in confusion. Kinvara takes the dagger from her pocket and throws it so hard on the ground that it shatters into hundreds of pieces.

“I won't let you give up on yourself.”, she says stubbornly.

Visenya sighs and shakes her head slightly.

“I knew you would do this.”, she says in a calm and monotonous voice.

Visenya slowly bends down and takes something out of her boot. Another dragonglass dagger.

“No.”, Kinvara screams and wants to run towards her, but Visenya freezes the ground and everyone's shoes so no one can move.

“What in seven hells is this?”, Cedric shouts confused and tries to free himself.

Visenya begins to remove the breastplate from her armor.

“No matter what you're up to. Do not do it.”, Jon begs his sister.

He has no idea what she's up to, but he knows for sure it's not good.

“I was hoping it wouldn't come to that, but I have no other choice. You'll all die if the Three-Eyed Raven wins. I can't allow that.”

“Please, Visenya. Think about it. If you choose this path, there is no turning back.”, Kinvara tries to persuade her.

“I don’t have another choice. This is what I was born for and this is what I will die for.”, Visenya says, taking the dagger of Valyrian steel from the holster on her belt and laying it on the table. “You know what to do when something goes wrong.”

Those present watch in shock as Visenya places the tip of the dragon glass dagger in the middle of her chest.

Visenya looks Jon, Daenerys, Arya, Robb, and Kinvara in the eye one last time.

“I'm sorry.”

“It will all be over soon.”, she murmurs to herself.

Then she begins to shove the dagger into her chest. She gritted her teeth, hissing.

The pain is unbearable. Her perception is limited and she heard everything as if she were underwater. The screams of her family and friends seem to come from far away. With a final hiss of pain, she plunges the dagger fully into her chest. She feels a biting cold spreading through her body. Colder than the first time she allowed the Night King's powers. She picks up one of the plates from the side table and looks at its reflection. She watches as her entire skin turns ice blue. Like that of the Night King. The ice blue of her eyes spreads to her whole eyeball. Her face fills up again and she feels her old strength returning. Suddenly a wave of memories that are not hers hits her. She sees the creation of the Night King through his eyes. She feels his pain and she feels his power. She feels his patience and she feels his anger. She senses his frustration and his hope. Hope he does his job. The purpose for which he was created. As quickly as the visions came, they disappear again. The plate she is holding is covered with a layer of ice. Visenya drops it, causing it to shatter into thousands of pieces. Then they free everyone from their freezing.

Everyone stares wide-eyed at Visenya, who looks like the female form of the Night King. Jon stands protectively in front of Daenerys, who is anxiously clutching her stomach. Grey Worm pushes Missandei behind him and Robb wraps his arm protectively around his little sister. Gaius fixes the Valyrian steel dagger on the table with his glaze. Cedric is the only one who just stands there and looks at the woman who has just turned before his eyes into the monster they've been fighting for years and prays that this is all just a horrible dream.

“Go on, Gaius. Take the dagger and stab me. This is what you want to do, isn’t it?”, Visenya begins in an icy voice which sounded as old as the world itself while staring at the old Maester, who winces and looks at her with anxious eyes. “But before you do that, I should remind you that I'm the only thing standing between you and the Three-Eyed Raven.”

Everyone present exchanged indecisive looks. They watch tensely as Visenya moves as she walks to the table and picks up the Valyrian steel dagger.

“You think I'm the enemy, don't you?”, Visenya continues while cradling the dagger in her hands. “I can't blame you. Even I thought for a very long time that the Night King was our greatest enemy. Now I understand.”

“What do you understand?”, Arya asks, her lips trembling with fear. “Let me tell you a story. The Three-Eyed Raven will take a little while to get where I want him to be.”, she continuous while she is looking out of the window. “The first three-eyed raven had a vision. In the vision he saw how he strayed from the path and fell into darkness. He knew he had to prevent this, so he asked the children of the Forest for help. They knew they couldn't force anyone to give up on themselves to wait hundreds of years in the snow and ice for the right moment. They searched for years for the right candidate and they found him. When the 13th Lord Commander of the Night's Watch learned what the Three-Eyed Raven would do, he volunteered and had the Children of the Forest transform him into the Night King. It was only possible because he carried the North within him, for he was a Stark.”

“If that's true, why did he kill all these people? Why did he need a huge army of undead people and animals?”, asks Jon upset and confused.

“We wouldn't have understood him. No one knew his real intention. We humans saw him as the enemy, so he had to become one. From the beginning he stood alone against the Three-Eyed Raven.”

“Then why did he attack Jon and the others on the frozen lake?”, Daenerys asks.

“It was never about us. He needed our dragons to breach the wall. He couldn't tell us that he only came for the Three-Eyed Raven, so he had to show it. His way of showing it was very questionable, but he had no choice. He knew there was nothing more important than defeating the Three-Eyed Raven.”

“Then why was he targeting me?”

“You killed a White Walker. Each of Craster's babies was like a child to him. For thousands of years there was only him. He just wanted a family. He didn't want to be alone anymore.”

“Why don't I believe you?”, Jon wheezes suspiciously.

“He never had anything against you. He spared Uncle Benjen so he can help you.”

Jons eyes widen shocked.

“You have his memories. You can see and feel everything he saw and felt.”, Kinvara realizes and looks at Visenya with fascination.

“So, the Three-Eyed Raven was the enemy all along and the Night King was the one trying to stop him?”, Arya asks again so she can get a clear answer and Visenya nods.

“Then why did he kill you?”, Robb asks confused.

“Because he knew I would kill him. Who doesn't want to survive? He knew his task was not yet complete and he was afraid of failing. I will finish what he started. Then he can finally find his peace.”

“By killing my little brother.”, Robb adds unhappily and crosses his arms over his chest.

“I never said I would kill Bran. I will kill the Three-Eyed Raven.”, Visenya replies.

“Wait! I thought Bran was already dead.”, Jon says surprised.

“I thought so too, but when I took my last breath, I felt him. He fought the Three-Eyed Raven to get his body back, but he's not strong enough to do it alone.”

“So, you can save him.”, Arya concludes hopefully.

“I'll try.”

Chapter Text

Grey Worm and Tyrion reach the entrance to the Dragon Pit. A few days earlier, Visenya had brought the dwarf from Dragonstone to King's Landing and given him clear instructions, so that the Three-Eyed Raven felt safe and thought he had won. They pass the Unsullied footmen who stand at attention. The large awning tent stands in the center of the pit with many people seated underneath. The Unsullied and the Lannister approach the central dais. Seated there in groups lining the sides of the tent are Samwell Tarly, his brother Dickon Tarly, a Riverlands Lord, and Edmure Tully together with his sister Catelyn, then Arya, the Three-Eyed Raven, Ned and Sansa, then Ser Brienne of Tarth, Davos, Gendry Baratheon, and a Vale Lord, then an Ironborn Lord, Yara Greyjoy, and a Dornish prince and finally Robin Arryn, Maester Gaius, and Yohn Royce. Tyrion glowers at them, meets their eyes, and looks down in shame. Visenya's voice echoes in his head. He has to concentrate. Grey Worm stands with disciplined posture at his side.

“Where's Jon?”, Ned asks the Unsullied.

He fears for Jon, who is in serious danger for killing the Queen, whose entire army is dominating King's Landing. He still has no idea why Daenerys went mad and burned down the capital. He doesn't know her well, but what he has heard and seen of her led him to believe that she was a just and compassionate queen. She defeated Cersei and her army won the battle for the city. He's toying with the idea of telling everyone who Jon really is. Almost everyone would certainly accept him as king.

“He is our prisoner.”, Grey Worm replies.

He's good at acting and doesn't bat an eyelid. He knows what's at stake. While he doesn't believe in all the magic stuff, he knows he must listen to Visenya to protect his queen.

“So is Lord Tyrion. They were both to be brought to this gathering.”, Sansa says and looks around. “And where is Robb?”

“We will decide what we do with our prisoners. This is our city now.”

“If you look outside the walls of your city, you'll find thousands of Northmen who will explain to you why harming Jon Snow is not in your interest.”, Ned says with an angry voice.

“And you will find thousands of Unsullied who believe that it is.”

“Some of you may be quick to forgive. The Ironborn are not. I swore to follow Daenerys Targaryen.”, Yara begins to say the words Visenya told her.

“You swore to follow a tyrant.”, Catelyn says snooty.

“She freed us from a tyrant. Cersei is gone because of her, and Jon Snow put a knife in her heart. Let the Unsullied give him what he deserves.”, Yara replies and sincerely hopes that her king will not kill her for saying this.

“Say another word about killing my brother and I'll cut your throat.”, Arya stays in her role.

Davos knows that now it is his turn, so he stands up.

“Friends, please. We've been cutting each other's throats long enough. Torgo Nudho. Am I saying that properly?”, he asks, but Grey Worm isn’t supposed to reply anything, so he answers nothing.

“If it weren't for you and your men, we would've lost the war with the dead. This country owes you a debt it can never repay, but let us try. There is land in the Reach. Good land. The people that used to live there are gone. Make it your own. Start your own house with the Unsullied as your bannermen. We've had enough war. Thousands of you, thousands of them. You know how it ends. We need to find a better way.”, he says and hopes he doesn’t forget something or says something wrong.

The Three-Eyed Raven must not find out that everything here is only staged to fool him until Visenya comes.

“We do not need payment. We need justice. Jon Snow cannot go free.”, he replies and he too hopes that he will not lose his head for this statement.

His queen loves Jon Snow. He respects that because he knows Jon is capable of protecting her and he often sees how happy Daenerys is around this man with the curled dark hair. Davos sits and gives Tyrion a slight nod to let the Lannister know it's his turn.

“It's not for you to decide.”

“You are not here to speak! Everyone has heard enough words from you.”, Grey Worm snaps at his queen's former hand.

The hate and anger in his voice are real because he knows about the betrayal.

“You're right. And no one's any better for it. But it's not for you to decide. Jon committed his crime here. His fate is for our king to decide. Or our queen.”

“We don't have a king or queen.”, Yohn Royce points out.

“You're the most powerful people in Westeros. Choose one.”, Tyrion suggests and looks at Grey Worm, who shakes his head dismissively.

“Make your choice, then.”, he says, well aware that they have already a king and a queen.

“Well, we have to choose someone.”

“I suppose you want the crown.”, Edmure says to Tyrion, grinning.

“Me? The Imp?”, Tyrion replies and shakes his head. “Half the people hate me for serving Daenerys, the other half hate me for betraying her. Can't think of a worse choice.”

He wonders when Visenya will finally show up. The constant fear of saying something wrong overwhelms him more and more with every further word. He doesn't want to be the one to blame in case the Three-Eyed Raven sees through the deception.

“Who, then?”, Davos asks and also wonders when Visenya will show up.

“I've had nothing to do but think these past few weeks. About our bloody history. About the mistakes we've made.”, Tyrion continuous even if he knows that King’s Landing now have the best king and queen since the beginning of time.

He takes a deep breath and reviews Visenya's words in his head before continuing.

“What unites people? Armies? Gold? Flags? Stories. There's nothing in the world more powerful than a good story. Nothing can stop it. No enemy can defeat it. And who has a better story than Bran the Broken? The boy who fell from a high tower and lived. He knew he'd never walk again, so he learned to fly. He crossed beyond the Wall, a crippled boy, and became the Three-Eyed Raven. He is our memory, the keeper of all our stories. The wars, weddings, births, massacres, famines. Our triumphs... mm, our defeats, our past. Who better to lead us into the future?”

“Bran has no interest in ruling and he can't father children.”, Sansa replies, because she hoped Tyrion would suggest her as queen.

She always wanted to be the queen of the seven kingdoms. She's closer to getting her wish than she's ever been. Arya rolls her eyes in annoyance. That's typical Sansa. She's looking forward to Sansa's face when she finds out that she doesn't have even the slightest chance of becoming queen.

“Good. Sons of kings can be cruel and stupid, as you well know. His will never torment us. That is the wheel our queen wanted to break.”, Tyrion says and looks at Grey Worm who holds the Imp’s gaze. “From now on, rulers will not be born. They will be chosen on this spot by the lords and ladies of Westeros to serve the realm.”

“I know you don't want it. I know you don't care about power. But I ask you now, if we choose you will you wear the crown? Will you lead the Seven Kingdoms to the best of your abilities from this day until your last day?”, he asks the Three-Eyed Raven and still wonders when Visenya will finally show up.

“Why do you think I came all this way?”, the Three-Eyed Raven answers and grins confidently. He did it. He is the King of the Seven Kingdoms.

When Tyrion sees the big black dragon appear from behind the tent, he breathes a sigh of relief. He then turns to the Three-Eyed Raven, who is waiting for the lords and ladies to elect him as their king. Tyrion nods to Grey Worm and points to the dragon lurking behind the tent. It's a mystery to Tyrion how she could sneak up on them so quietly. Grey Worm understands immediately.

“Seize them.”, Grey Worm orders, whereupon all who are not privy to the plan stare at the commander of the unsullied with wide eyes.

All but Arya, Yara, Davos, Gendry, Robin, the Dornish Prince, Edmure and Gaius are seized by the Unsullied.

They fight against the soldier, but fell silent when they see Robb and Ser Marvin, accompanied by a dozen soldiers, approaching them. The two knights are clad in full armour and bear the sigils of House Targaryen and House Stark on their breastplates.

“What's the meaning of this, Robb?”, Eddard asks his son in shock.

“I am sorry father. You are arrested.”, replies Robb calmly.

“Who gave the order?”, the Three-Eyed Raven asks, frowning in confusion. It shouldn't work like that.

Suddenly, Baleria grabs the tent and rips it out of the anchorage. She shakes it vigorously before tossing it to the side. Panicked and anxious screams ring out. The Unsullied take advantage of the distraction and drag the prisoners away from the man in the wheelchair. Baleria spreads her wings and roars loudly before staring at the figure that has joined Robb and Ser Marvin. The Three-Eyed Raven stares thoughtfully at the dragon before turning back and staring at the figure approaching him. Arriving on the platform, Visenya grabs the hood of her cloak and reveals her face.

“I gave the order.”, she answers his question.

Perplexed and deeply shocked, the Three-Eyed Raven eyed the woman in front of him. He didn’t expect that nor foresaw it. Everyone present, look at Visenya with open mouths and wide-eyed eyes, who fixes the Three-Eyed Raven. He mumbles something unintelligible, which sounds suspiciously like swearing, and tries to put some distance between Visenya and herself. Two of the Unsullied hold his chair in place and set.

“Did you really think I'd let you kill thousands of innocent people just to become king?”, Visenya asks calmly.

She has the advantage here, and since she allowed the Night King's power to take hold of her completely, she's more powerful than ever.

“I don’t know what you are talking about.”, he lies and looks to Bran's parents for help.

Visenya rolls her eyes and sighs in annoyance, before she approaches the Three-Eyed Raven to end it once and for all.

“Keep your hands off my son.”, Catelyn screams wildly, trying to free herself from the iron clutches of the soldiers holding her.

“Leave him in peace.”, Ned agrees with his wife and looks anxiously at the woman made of ice, who looks suspiciously like Visenya. Visenya turns to her uncle and fixes him with an icy stare.

“Do you know what his last words were when the Night King thrust his sword into my chest and I killed him too safe everyone? Do you know what words I heard as I took my last breath?”, she asks and Ned realizes that the creature that looks like the Night King is actually Visenya. “They will never know what you did for them. I didn't want any of this, but I knew it was the only way to save thousands of innocent people. This isn't your son. What you see here is the Three-Eyed Raven that has warged into Drogon and was trying to burn down King's Landing.

“What! I thought Daenerys went mad and killed all these innocent people.”, Sansa says confused.

“That is what he wanted to happen. That's what he told you. That is what I made him see. The Three-Eyed Raven planned everything. From the day he pushed Brandon Stark out of the Tower at the hands of Jamie Lannister to when he would have become King of the Seven Kingdoms. I was created to stop him. He uses Bran's body as a vessel for his mind.”, she explains and then turns to the creature in the wheelchair. “Did you really think I'd let you hurt my family?”

“If you kill me, you will kill Brandon Stark too. But I think you're the one that needs to be destroyed.”, the Three-Eyed Raven answers calmly.

Bran's family looks at him in shock. He has admitted he is not Brandon Stark. Visenya narrows her eyes suspiciously. He's planning something. She knows that.

“The Night King was a Stark and was created to stop you. I'm finishing what the 13th Lord Commander of the Night's Watch started.”

“Go on. Kill me and seal Brandon Stark's fate. Kill the innocent boy.”

Visenya snorts in amusement and takes a step back.

“I know what you're up to.”, she says and looks at the anxious faces of those present.

The Three-Eyed Raven wants to make them believe she is the monster and turn everyone against her.

“You know. When I took my last breath, your words weren't the last thing I felt. I felt Bran. The real Brandon Stark. You think you've destroyed him, but he's stronger than you think. He's still in there. He begged me to kill him to stop you.”

“I don't think anyone will forgive you if you kill me.”, the Three-Eyed Raven replies, gesturing to the assembled Starks.

“She will try to save him.”, suddenly Jon says, who has approached together with Daenerys.

Confused, Visenya turns to her brother and aunt. It wasn't planned that way. What are they doing here?

“So, I suppose you are the king now. Interesting. I thought you didn't want the crown.”, the Three-Eyed Raven to Jon, who has his hand on his sword.

“I'd rather be king than the man who planned to kill my wife.”, Jon replies and holds his hand protectively in front of his wife and his unborn children.

Visenya inwardly slaps his forehead. Her brother probably has no idea who he's dealing with, otherwise he wouldn't have revealed how important Daenerys is to him.

She sees his eyes slide into his sockets out of the corner of her eye. One of the soldiers holding his chair aims his spear at Daenerys.

“Watch out!”, Visenya shouts and stretches out her hand for the spear.

Ice spreads out from her feet and within seconds a wall of ice rises up in front of Jon and Daenerys. The spear gets stuck in it. Then Visenya closes her eyes and warges into all the soldiers present. The eyes of the Unsullied turn blue.

Shocked, everyone looks at the soldiers who are now under Visenya's control.

“Get everyone out of here.”, Visenya orders them, whereupon all the soldiers drag the Lords and Ladies, the Starks and the Royal Couple further away from Visenya and the Three-Eyed Raven.

“Next time I tell you to stay away, listen to me.”, Visenya admonishes her brother and aunt.

When everyone is far enough away, Visenya dismisses the soldiers and creates a wall of ice around the Three-Eyed Raven and himself.

“Now it's just us.”, she gasps with effort. The mind control of the soldiers and the creation of the ice wall has sapped her strength.

“All this effort just to save these worthless creatures. You could have ruled all kingdoms, but instead of ruling you waste all your power on me.”, he snorts defensively. “Don't say you haven't thought of that?”

“No.”, Visenya says, but her voice trembles. Of course, she thought of it. The Night King's magic is dark and whispers seductive things in her ear.

“I see you struggling to stay in control. Centuries of waiting has led even the Night King into darkness. If I'm the enemy, then so are you. Let go and join me. Together we can rule over all people and live forever.”

“I was born a queen. I grew up a queen. I fought as queen. I never had the chance to decide for myself what I really want to be.

“You were only created to stop me. You are not a real person. You don't really exist.”, the Three-Eyed Raven talks to her.

“And yet here I stand. I've lived, I've fought, I've loved. Now I will rest and take you with me.”

Visenya lunges forward and grabs both hands of the creature that almost took everything from her. For the first time in thousands of years, the Three-Eyed Raven feels fear. Fear of death. Visenya uses all her available power and warges into him. The Three-Eyed Raven screams in pain as the Night King's magic slowly neutralizes him. A force field is formed around him and Visenya that keeps growing. Kinvara knows what the force field can do, so she melts the protective wall Visenya has been using to shield everyone.

“Take cover.”, she screams and also runs to one of the exits, but it's already too late.

The force field explodes with a bang, sending a powerful sonic wave through the arena. All people who find themselves in the former dragon pit are swept off their feet. Baleria shrieks, using her flapping wings to try to regain her balance. Jon has his hands around Daenerys to protect her and the unborn children from the sound wave. Ned throws himself protectively at Catelyn and Robb at Arya. The others are thrown in all directions. Moaning and gasping, everyone moves after it's over. The sand in the arena has been kicked up, making it difficult for everyone to see. It takes a while for the sand to settle again. The platform on which everyone was standing a few minutes ago is completely destroyed. The staves of the tent that Baleria tore down lay scattered in the pit. After making sure Daenerys is okay, Jon looks around. All seemed to be alive. Then his gaze falls on the platform. There are two people lying there who don't move.

Chapter Text

“No.”, he breathes and straightens up quickly.

Hissing, he falls back to his knees as a searing pain shoots through his chest.

“Are you alright?”, Daenerys asks worried.

“Yes, just a few bruised ribs I think.”, Jon assures her and checks her for injuries.

Apart from a couple of abrasions, Daenerys appears to have escaped unscathed. She rubs her stomach and exhales with relief when she feels her children kicking. Jon also puts his hand on her stomach and smiles as he feels the kicks of his children. He kisses Daenerys on the forehead before trying to get up again. This time more carefully and slowly.

“Is everybody fine?”, he asks aloud, receiving an answer or gesture from everyone except the two humans on the ruined platform.

He hastily approaches. Bran has been thrown from his wheelchair and lies motionless. Visenya also lies motionless. Cedric has already picked himself up and ran to Visenya. All the blue from the Night King's magic is gone from her body. Her hair has it is old colour and her lips are rosy again. Her skin has returned to its normal light colour. Bran is across from her. Unchanged. It looks like he's sleeping. Jon kneels next to him and takes his pulse.

“He's alive.”, he shouts, causing Ned, Catelyn, Robb and Arya to run to Jon, who is still hunched over Bran.

Ned grabs his son's shoulder and shakes it, causing his eyes to flicker and he moves with a groan. Brans vision slowly clears and he sees the faces of his family.

“Mother. Father. Robb. Arya. Jon.”, he says in a hoarse voice.

“Is it really you, Bran.”, Jon asks suspiciously, causing Bran to smile slightly.

“Visenya killed him. Now I'm just a cripple.”, he jokes, his voice full of emotion and his eyes sparkling.

Jon chuckles in relief and squeezes his little brother's shoulder.

“My baby.”, Catelyn sobs and hugs her son.

“She isn't breathing.”, Cedric shouts desperate and close to tears.

Startled, the Stark family turns to Cedric, who shakes Visenya violently. Bran's expression turns sad. She sacrificed everything to free him from the clutches of the Three-Eyed Raven.

“Take me to her.”, Bran asks his family.

Robb and Ned take him left and right and pull him towards the lifeless woman. Jon and Arya pull Cedric away from Visenya so Bran has enough space. Bran reaches out and places his hand on Visenya's forehead. She is freezing. He senses her presence, but she is only very weak. She is on the brink of death. His gaze wanders to her hand, which is resting on her stomach. The only warmth he senses comes from there.

“That's impossible.”, he murmurs and looks into Visenya's lifeless face. Then he turns his upper body to Kinvara, which has also come closer.

“You knew about it, didn't you?”, Bran accuses the Red Priestess, who bows her head in shame. “We have to warm her up. That's the only way we can save her.”

“I used all my power helping her maintain the deception.”, admits Kinvara.

Bran sighs in frustration until his gaze falls on Baleria, who doesn't take her eyes off him. His gaze changes from the dragon to Visenya.

“I have an idea.”, he says and crawls across the platform to Baleria, who has come closer.

“What are you doing?”, Catelyn asks horrified.

“Trust me. I know what I am doing.”, he replies and Kinvara knows what he's up to.

“You should all go away from Visenya.”, she says and shoos everyone away from Visenya.

As Bran approaches Baleria, she lowers her head and growls at him. Bran's heart is pounding in his throat, but he gathers his courage and keeps crawling forward. When he's only a meter away from the huge dragon's snout, he slowly stretches out his trembling hand. Baleria growls louder.

“I know you don't trust me and I know you know full well what happened that night, but I believe there is a way to save your mother.”

Baleria closes her mouth and narrows her eyes suspiciously. She approaches Bran and sniffs his hand. She knows that he is able to warg into her and force her to do something, but she also knows that Visenya killed the Three-Eyed Raven. The man in front of her is her mother's cousin. She blows air out of her nostrils before allowing Bran to put his hand on her snout. Fascinated, Bran looks into her eyes. The face of a young woman he knows flickers before his eyes. Meera. He last saw her when the Three-Eyed Raven sent her away. He blinks in confusion and shakes off the image. He has to concentrate. Using his Greenseer abilities, he transmits his idea to Baleria. He prays that it works, otherwise he would not only have Visenya's life on his conscience. After the broadcast, Baleria pulls her snout back and shakes her mighty head. Then she goes to her mother and nudges her. She makes a pained noise. It's the second time she's found her mother like this in a short span of time. Bran straightens up and looks at the dragon expectantly. His whole body tingles with fear. If he's wrong, Baleria will turn Visenya to ashes.

“What is Baleria up to?”, Cedric asks in panic as the dragon straightens up and opens its mouth.

Flames form in her throat. Before Bran can respond, Baleria spits a small, controlled burst of fire at her mother. Those who do not know that Visenya is unburned cry out in horror.

The only thing Visenya feels is an icy cold. Her body is paralyzed. When she neutralized the Three-Eyed Raven using the Night King's magic, she felt all her power and life energy drained from her. She has already reconciled herself to the thought that she was going to die. She was ready to go, but if this is the life that awaits her after her death, she wants to go back. This yawning darkness and cold is anything but peaceful and relieving. Maybe she was in hell. Her own personal hell. Maybe that's the price she pays for all her sins.

Suddenly, the eternal darkness lights up and her body is hit with a hot wave of heat. Little by little her body warms up. Her numb limbs begin to thaw again. As the warmth reaches her heart, she gasps for air and opens her eyes in shock. There are flames all around her and she looks straight into Baleria's open mouth from which flames hit her body. She holds her hand in front of her eyes to protect them. She then focuses and warges into Baleria, who immediately stops breathing fire at her. Baleria shrieks and shakes her head to get rid of the mind control. She stumbles backwards. She hates it when someone warges into her. With all eyes on the dragons, no one notices Visenya slowly getting up. Realizing that it was only her mother who took control, Baleria calms down and lets out an embarrassed sound before leaning towards her mother. She coos in delight and nudges Visenya, who giggles and puts her hand on her winged daughter's snout. Visenya is startled when someone puts a coat around her and pulls her into a hug. Jon.

“Hello Brother.”, she says and returns the hug.

“I thought we lost you.”, he murmurs and buries himself in the crook of her neck.

Over Jon's shoulder, Visenya sees Daenerys smiling at her. She returns the smile.
Then her gaze falls on Cedric. She almost forgets to breathe. All the feelings she didn't feel while the Night King's magic was flowing through her veins come back even stronger. After the turn, she is hugged first by Daenerys and then by the Starks. Even Catelyn and Sansa. Then Visenya's eyes fall on Bran, who Marvin and Cedric have placed on one of the chairs. She walks up to him and stands in front of him.

“I'm sorry I couldn't free you sooner.”, she apologizes to her cousin, who just smiles and shakes his head.

“I'm the one who has to apologize to you. You gave up everything to save me and all because I was too weak.”

“You are too hard on yourself. You were just a boy.”, interjects Visenya.

“I should have fought harder.”, Bran regrets and bows his head in embarrassment.

“Now it's over.”, Visenya assures him and comfortingly puts her hand on his shoulder.

“I don't deserve to get on with my life while you have to give up yours.”, Bran says seriously, knowing what a price Visenya has to pay.

“I was born for this. It is a gift that I am standing here and having the opportunity to see you all one last time.”

“What are you talking about.”, Eddard asks in panic.

Visenya takes a deep breath and looks at all the faces that mean everything to her. Then her gaze falls on a group of men entering the dragon pit.

“In order to deceive the Three-Eyed Raven, I had to ask the Faceless God a favour.”

“The body we burned.”, Arya realized.

“The Faceless God was willing to grant Visenya Targaryen her wish, but he demands something in return.”, says Jaqen H'ghar, the leader of the faceless assassins, who is just entering the dragon pit accompanied by some other men.

“Should I survive the destruction of the Three-Eyed Raven, I will go to Essos to join the Faceless Assassins.”, Visenya explains.

“No, you can't do that.”, Cedric interjects, knowing exactly what it means to become a Faceless men or woman.

“Cedric is right. There have to be another way.”, Marvin agrees with Cedric.

“We just got you back.”, Jon interferes too.

“I was supposed to die today, but fate allowed me to see you one last time. I do not have another choice. I have to pay my depts.”

“You always have a choice.”, Daenerys tries to convince her niece.

“I've done my part. You and Jon will bring the Seven Kingdoms to a glorious future. Just what you have changed for the better in the last few weeks shows that you are destined to lead Westeros into a better future. You have broken the wheel. Together.”

“We're here to take you with us.”, Jaqen H'ghar reminds her and gestures to the men behind him.

Visenya gets the message. If she doesn’t go voluntarily with them, they would take her by force.

“One moment please.”, she asks and goes to Cedric, who looks at her with pleading eyes.

“I thought I would spend my whole life with you, but it looks like that won't happen. I love you, Cedric Dayne. Do not forget that and don’t try anything stupid. I know you.”

“I can't let you become one of them.”, Cedric says with trembling lips.

“I'll be fine. Go and live your life. You deserve it.”

“A life without you is meaningless. I…”, he replies, but is silenced by Visenya, who presses her lips to his to kiss him one last time, feeling his lips on hers. She puts all her feelings into that kiss and inhales his scent one last time.

“I'm sorry.”, she murmurs and breaks away from him to go to the Faceless Men.

When he wants to follow her, two faceless men block his way. To avoid a bloodbath, Robb and Marvin grab him left and right to pull him away.

“Wait!”, calls Gaius and runs to Visenya. The leader of the faceless men stands in his way.

“Please, may I accompany you. I would like to examine and treat her. She has suffered a lot in the last few weeks and you want a strong fighter and not one who gets killed on her first mission.”, he asks the leader, whereupon he thinks for a moment and throws a look at Visenya. Visenya really doesn’t seem to be in the best shape.

“A man accepts the offer, but once the woman is fully healthy, the Maester will leave Essos.”

“Of course. I accept that.”, Gaius replies and exhales in relief.

Gaius says goodbye to Daenerys and Jon and promises that he will be back soon to accompany Daenerys through her pregnancy and birth of her twins. He also promises Cedric, Marvin, and the Starks that he will arrange for Visenya to be given medical care so that she returns to full health. Then he follows the Faceless Men. Kinvara decides to stay in King’s Landing to explain everything that happened to Visenya since she got killed by the Night King.