Legacy of Fire and Ice

His first morning back at the Free Folk settlement, Jon woke later than usual. He was alone in the tent. Even Ghost had abandoned him. He closed his eyes and sensed the direwolf roaming the nearby woods. He gently severed the connection and concentrated on his dragons. Rhaegal and Viserion were following a herd of wild horses. He nudged Rhaegal's mind and was welcomed with alacrity. Together they searched for landmarks so he could inform Tormund where they could find this herd. Horses were not only valuable tools for the Free Folk, they were also a source of meat when food was in short supply. He said goodbye to Rhaegal and Viserion and quickly dressed himself.

Almost ready for the outside world, he focussed his hearing. Apparently this area of the camp was deserted. He tried to remember what had happened last night. He had been exhausted when he arrived. He distinctly remembered handing over the results of his sennight of scouting the Lands of Always Winter to Davos but was almost sure he in turn had received no news about the situation at Craster's Keep, King's Landing, Dragonstone or Winterfell. This realisation made him jump into action. In no time he finished his morning ablutions, answered the call of nature and was ready to go in search of Davos. In his haste, he bumped into Orell when he made the short turn to circumvent his tent.

"Where are you off to in all haste?" his fellow warg asked him after regaining his balance.

"Sorry for that. I am looking for my companions. I am eager to receive news from my friends south of the Wall. Did you happen to fly over Craster's Keep and see something of significance?" Jon asked eager to hear about that as well.

"The Night's Watch made camp there a few days ago. Yesterday I witnessed them readying themselves to move out. I also saw a scouting party of four crows keeping track of the dead that were approximately two days away from reaching Craster's Keep. Depending on the speed they are able to travel, Jeor Mormont and his men could reach the White Walker and his wights this evening. I overheard your people and Mance Rayder arguing about whether they should interfere or not." The tone of Orell's voice made it clear he wanted to ambush the enemy, probably to protect the baby and the women.

Jon frowned. "With all their arguing and delaying, they are out of options. If both parties clash today, nobody can get there besides you inside your eagle or I on my dragons." "Fortunately Jeor Mormont was smart enough to take enough men along. Even without dragonglass, if they remember to use fire they should be all right. Any chance you know where I can find my people?"

"Look for them in the big tent near the south pasture. That is where they gather when the sleeping tent is occupied. But Dragonrider, the small army of wights heading towards the keep has grown considerably since you last saw it. I saw lots of undead animals and even several large bears had joined their ranks. The White Walker certainly did his best to grow his army along the way. It is at least double the size of your last count."

"Then Mormont is in trouble. Thanks for the heads up, Orell. You're a big help to me and the Free Folk. I'll let you know if I decide to fly towards Craster's Keep in case you might like to join me." He tapped the man's shoulder as a goodbye gesture and went in search of his entourage."

In the south pasture he noticed Rykker and Stokeworth and waved at them. The two men were helping the small folk care for their horses and sheep. He found Davos and Ser Arthur in the tent just as Orell had told him. Ser Arthur and Davos took their eyes off the game of dice they had apparently been engaged in and got up to greet him. When Jon enquired about the news that had arrived during his absence, Davos invited him to sit down with them and was quick to get him up to speed.

"Varys has sent a message describing Littlefinger's delight in presiding over the small council and how he keeps the traitor busy with insignificant issues like tavern brawls, increased food prices, sewer problems and other minor matters most of which Varys has created himself just for this purpose. According to the Master of Whispers, King Robert and his Hand still need a few days to reach King's Landing. I have received a message from them detailing an encounter with Prince Oberyn and Lord Reed before they reached White Harbour. The Prince apparently handed them additional evidence that he collected in the Riverlands to use against Littlefinger.

More importantly, Ser Gerold has sent word that they have arrived safely at Dragonstone and have met with minimal resistance. Only a few people are currently kept imprisoned to prevent them from alerting the mainland. They are mostly servants and former guards of House Baratheon that opted to stay on the island because they married into families living on Dragonstone. Most of the smallfolk are happy with the changed circumstances and are looking forward to the arrival of their Prince and Princess. A small percentage doesn't care either way as long as they are able to live in peace. Ser Gerold stresses nothing prevents you from claiming your seat in person."

"So they succeeded! Excellent! Let's hope they can keep their presence at the island secret for a while longer. This really is good news, Davos! Please send a message to Ser Gerold that the men he imprisoned are to be given normal rooms, no dark cells. I agree they have to restrict their movements but I want them to be given decent food, adequate sleeping arrangements and fair treatment. As soon as I openly claim the Seven Kingdoms, they will get a chance to swear allegiance and become my subjects. I do not want to alienate them further by treating them like murderers or rapists."

When he saw Davos' consenting nod he asked eagerly "What about Ser Barristan's mission?"

Ser Arthur and Davos exchanged smiles. Both men were glad to see their often too serious Prince so excited. Davos was quick to answer his question aware of how keen Jon was to hear about that part of the plan. "Ser Barristan is scheduled to arrive in Pentos …." Davos calculated the days between the sending of the scroll and the timeline stipulated in the message. "If I have this right, Ser Barristan will arrive in Pentos on the morrow. They estimate it will take him the better part of three days to get everything organised. He expects the Princess will arrive at Dragonstone approximately ten or eleven days from now depending on the wind."

"Let us hope for smooth weather." Jon commented trying to keep his face blank so he would not be teased too much later. "Has other news reached you here?"

A scroll from Robb informs us about the arrival of Prince Oberyn and Lord Reed at Winterfell. Both have departed again by now. Prince Oberyn and his daughter are on their way to the Wall. Lord Reed has taken Bran with him and is headed back to Greywater Watch. The Tyrells are pressing Willas and Loras to return South but Robb writes that Loras wants to stay in the North a bit longer. Edric also opts to stay at Winterfell for now but promises to meet us at Castle Black well before we need to leave for Dragonstone. Another personal message from Edric was included for you. I did not open that. As far as I know you haven't responded to his first one?"

Jon ignored Davos' raised eyebrow and just accepted the tiny scroll. "What else?"

Davos hesitated but decided to not to pry. It was probably a personal issue between the two young men. If not, he was confident Jon would confide in him when the time was right. "Yara Greyjoy reports her uncle, Euron Greyjoy is attacking the shores of the Stepstones but encounters resistance from pirates. Oh and I received a scroll…" He searched his pockets and held out a rather thick scroll. "Here I didn't open this one. I think you were expecting this?"

Jon's eyes lit up when he looked at it. "From Daenerys? Finally, I was starting to worry."

"As we all noticed." Davos chuckled.

"Nothing else?" When Davos shook his head, told him that these were the more important matters and gently urged Jon to find a quiet spot so he could read his personal messages in private, Jon scowled and asked in a rather brusque tone, "What's happening at Craster's Keep? Do you know the position of the large scouting party led by Jeor Mormont and what news about the White Walker and his contingent of wights that are headed that way?"

He noticed Ser Arthur who had let Davos lead the conversation for now turn his head and exchange a significant look with Davos which Jon translated as 'I told you so Davos. Just spill already.'

Still Davos hesitated. Jon turned to Ser Arthur. "Would you perhaps care to enlighten me? And where are Sandor and Tormund for that matter?"

Another look passed between Ser Arthur and Davos. It was Ser Arthur who provided Jon with the requested information. "Jeor Mormont and his large group will leave or have already left their encampment at Craster's Keep and are on their way to intercept the small army of the dead. According to your warg friend…"

"Orell." Jon helped him recall the name.

"Orell," Ser Arthur nodded gratefully, "the contingent led by the White Walker you described has doubled in size. The Lord Commander's group still outnumbers them but they will not realise what they are up against. Tormund and Sandor along with a few volunteers have left a few days ago as soon as your warg friend first brought the news of the increased enemy numbers. They plan to keep out of sight and will only interfere if Jeor Mormont makes a colossal mistake such as not using fire to fight them. I do not know if they will reach them in time though. They have taken most of the dragonglass with them. According to Orell, Mormont's group and the dead will encounter each other tonight after dark or the next day at the latest." Ser Arthur turned his head to the side and seemed once more to communicate with Davos.

Davos took over. "Orell warned Tormund and Sandor that the White Walker had recruited some fierce animals. Big bears and shadow cats I think he mentioned amongst other creatures I have forgotten the name of."

"And why did you keep that information from me? Am I not your Prince and future King? You were not with me at the time but surely you realise that I did pass my seventeenth nameday some time ago. What do you expect me to do? Sit around a cosy bonfire tonight? Tell some funny stories and charm a few spearwives while at that exact same time numerous men of the Night's Watch face an unknown, exceptionally lethal enemy?" Jon tried to keep his voice down but neither of the men missed the passionate somewhat exasperated tone of his voice.

"We want you to stay safe. I feared you would fly off before we had a chance to discuss strategies." Davos argued. "I would have told you, I just ..." Davos' hesitation gave Jon the opportunity to interrupt.

"I distinctly recall myself promising Ser Gerold I would not do that if it the situation allowed for it. In this case, there still is most of the day to talk this through. I would only have to leave a bit before supper. I put my trust in you to keep me informed and let me be a part of the decision making, Davos." Davos had the decency to look a bit guilty. Jon wanted to know why his normally so reliant adviser had such a differing opinion on this matter. Normally they understood each other almost without words. "Are you really of the opinion that it is the wrong move to fly out before dusk and lend my support if I notice that they are in trouble?"

"Jeor Mormont put your life in jeopardy," Davos started but this time Ser Arthur interrupted.

"No it is not stupid. It is a good strategy. Ser Davos knows this as well. Only, you will need to be smart about this and keep in mind that after you have saved their dumb, stubborn arses, it will remain dangerous to mingle with the brothers of the Night's Watch. It only takes one vindictive crow to pierce your heart with a sword, a dagger or an arrow."

"Thank you Ser Arthur." Jon smiled gratefully at the knight noticing his language had got coarser over time. "It truly is the smart, the humane thing to do." He turned to his Hand. "Davos, have you thought about the worst case scenario? Suppose these few hundred brothers of the Night's Watch are caught unaware and are swarmed by the enemy. What if they panic, lose the battle and are recruited by the White Walker who then marches to Craster's Keep and takes the baby for some nefarious reason we haven't figured out yet. If somehow they leave Craster and his daughter-wives unharmed, they will still have grown their numbers significantly. Even if you do not care about the lives of hundreds of men of the Night's Watch, it is imperative that we keep the enemy from recruiting more soldiers. It will be difficult enough to beat them with their current strength." Jon watched Davos' frown grow deeper while Ser Arthur nodded his assent. The knight clearly had come to this conclusion as well.

"That stubborn man!" Davos burst out. "He delays all of our carefully prepared plans. He doesn't respect you enough to keep his men in line when they threaten your life. And you are willing to jump headlong into danger at the first mention of him being in a self-inflicted predicament. I do not like it. I do not like it at all. Even if you have a very good argument to help him and I know you have to go, I still do not have to like it."

"Davos, please. I will take every precaution. I will focus on the White Walker and not let him out of my sight. I will anticipate his ice spear. Did Tormund leave a few dragonglass arrowpoints or some spearheads behind? Perhaps this time I can surprise him with a spear of my own. If he is as vulnerable to dragonglass as his wights, perhaps one perfectly aimed arrow will make his entire army powerless. Also, I want you to recall events at the Stony Shore. You witnessed with your own eyes how destructive a single burst of dragonfire can be. Rhaegal and Viserion have only grown more powerful since then. The three of us make a good team up there and we watch out for one another. My presence tonight may be the only thing that will save the brothers of the Night's Watch." Jon watched Davos' frown disappear as the man mulled over Jon's words.

Ser Arthur got up and fetched something from the far corner of the tent. "Tormund ensured me it is one of his best bows and you are already familiar with it." He handed Jon a bow and a quiver filled with five arrows with dragonglass tips. "He asked me to tell you he would keep his eye out for you on the battlefield. That man knows you better than Davos."

"Davos knows me well enough." Jon and Davos exchanged a wan smile. "He just isn't as eager as Tormund to send me into the fray. But thanks, Ser Arthur. This bow may be just what we need to defeat the entire army. The enemy has a very prominent weakness aside from fire and dragonglass. Take out their general and win the battle."

"I pray you kill him first then." Davos told Jon. "It seems I am in for another sleepless night. "

Jon touched Davos' upper arm. "I'll be back before you know it, Davos. I promise." His next sentence was addressed to both men. "If you have any useful ideas, now is the time to come forward. Keep it short though, I am eager to read these messages."

They talked about possible strategies though they had to accept that since they did not know the exact terrain where the confrontation would take place, it was difficult to decide on anything but some general safety measures. Jon promised once more to be very vigilant and not to act on impulse but oversee the situation from up high. He would only make his presence known to the enemy after he had crafted a decent plan of attack. Soon Jon determined the subject had been exhausted for now. He eyed the dice in front of him. "Who was winning this time?"

"Young man, you will not succeed in distracting me." Davos used a mocking tone but his expression was serious. "You have stalled long enough, son. I want you to tell me exactly what happened at Castle Black. Your reaction yesterday made me fear the worst. What have you said or done over there that made you act so guilty last night?"

Jon lowered his head in shame. "It is not something I am proud of Davos. But it will not harm our cause if that is what you are scared about." And he proceeded to tell Davos and Ser Arthur all about his encounter with Jaime Lannister in the cell at Castle Black.

Jon had expected the mixed feelings on both men's faces when he passed on Jaime Lannisters motives for stabbing King Arys in the back. Ser Arthur paled considerably. Jon knew from his own experience that the knight wondered how much this one misunderstood deed had affected all the bad choices Ser Jaime had made since then.

To Jon's relief as soon as he had finished his confession as truthfully as his memory allowed, Davos granted him absolution saying nobody could be perfect the entire time and that things could have gone a lot worse. Jon promised to try and avoid similar confrontations in future before he left to read his personal messages in private.

***

Jon still had ample time to himself before he had to leave. He retired to the sleeping tent and took out the two scrolls. He stared at them in indecision. Would he open Dany's missive first or would he save it until after when he had dealt with the other one so he could give it his undivided attention and savour her words? His mind made up, he opened Edric's message first. He had a good idea what it contained anyway. His friend indeed petitioned him once more to put in a good word with Lord Eddard Stark before he formally asked the Lord of Winterfell for a betrothal to Sansa Stark. Edric would be willing to wait twelve moons or more before making it public but he wanted Lord Stark's promise that he wouldn't betroth his daughter to anyone else in the interim. He swore it was Sansa's dearest wish as well as his own. Robb had given him the advice to enlist Jon's help since he feared his father might have another betrothal for his sister in mind. Edric ended his missive by reminding him of his lack of reply to his previous letter and pleaded him to at least send one this time even if it would not be the one he'd hoped for.

Jon was hesitant to interfere. Lord Stark was still Sansa's father. Jon should only overrule a father's wishes for crucial political reasons, not to help a friend out however much he was sympathetic to his plight. He had been stalling with formulating a response, hoping the right solution would manifest itself. It would be cruel to leave Edric's plea unanswered for much longer though. He resolved to write an answer today. He would suggest that Edric address Lord Stark directly leaving out that he had asked for Jon's interference before approaching him. Jon could always attempt to subtly influence Lord Stark later should the man's reply not be the one they wished for. He would also caution Edric not to use Sansa's wishes as his strongest argument when he approached Lord Stark with his request. Sansa had only recently celebrated her fourteenth nameday and Lord Stark might wave away her feelings as nothing more than an imaginary infatuation of a young girl. Edric should build his case on his own merit.

He eyed the scroll from Daenerys eagerly anticipating the content of the long awaited missive. He swallowed and broke the seal in a determined fashion. He sighed when he saw the words made no sense and was reminded he needed to decode the message first. A bit later he put the message down disappointed with its content. The only thing it contained was a generic explanation why she hadn't written to him sooner. She had no news to relate since her life was boring and nothing happened that was worth mentioning. She could only tell him once more how impatient she counted the days until it was safe for her to sail to Westeros and she hoped he was well and that they would meet soon. The reason the scroll looked thicker than usual was because she had included a drawing of a beautiful sigil that intertwined a dragon and a wolf.

He closed his eyes and reached out to Ghost. Soon enough his loyal companion entered the tent and Jon hugged him until the wolf whined and readjusted his position to a more comfortable one. Jon laid his head on Ghost's flank and forced his disappointment to subside. Contrary to her, he had so much happening in his life. He probably would go mad being forced to wait around for years to be allowed to go home and to have no real purpose to fulfil until that happened. Well she would be in better spirits on the morrow when Ser Barristan arrived in Pentos. Jon decided not to answer her message for now. Next time that he contacted her she would be at Dragonstone.

***

At least half of the settlement had come out to wave Jon off. They cheered him on as the dragons made and extra circle over their heads before flying in the direction of Craster's Keep. Orell for some reason had decided not to accompany him. No clouds hindered the cool light of the moon which meant he would be visible flying in. He might still have the element of surprise his first moments on the scene but it would be difficult to keep out of sight if he was too early. Jon decided to stay high up in the air and use his spyglass. That way he might see them before they noticed he was something more than a large bird. He hoped to have time to determine whether the Night's Watch was able to deal with the situation on their own or not before deciding to show himself.

All his deliberations were in vain. When he arrived on the scene, the dead were attacking the Night's Watch and had them cornered already. The army of the living were flanked by a mountain on their left and a half frozen lake at their backs. The enemy attacked from the front as well as the right side of Mormont's formation.

Jon didn't spot the White Walker right away. He persuaded Rhaegal and Viserion to hold off the attack and shared a mental image of a White Walker with an ice spear. Viserion immediately answered with an image of his own. Jon checked and congratulated the silverwhite dragon. The White Walker sat atop his horse on the mountain flank close to the top overlooking the battlefield from up high.

Both dragons immediately grasped Jon's entire plan as soon as he sent an image of the first phase. Viserion waited until Rhaegal had circled around. The green dragon approached the White Walker from behind hovering just above the peak of the mountain. When Jon reached for his bow, Viserion provided the necessary distraction. He dove over the enemy and breathed fire over the entire length of their ranks. He circled back and repeated the same manoeuver over the other flank. All eyes were on him which gave Rhaegal the perfect opportunity to fly close enough to the unsuspecting White Walker. Rhaegal and Jon both were aware of the risk they were taking. Once they were spotted, Rhaegal's large body would be an easy target hoovering at close range. They would be sitting ducks. For now, they were safe. The ice creature had its ice spear at the ready and was aiming for Viserion. The silverwhite dragon was taunting the White Walker by flying random figures while ascending slowly to give his human more time.

Jon's first arrow hit the White Walker in the head. It stuck out of the back of his head but the creature stayed upright. It turned around and faced Jon who was hovering on Rhaegal, a small distance separating them for the enemy. Jon's second arrow was nocked and ready to fire. Jon urged Rhaegal to flee the exact moment he discharged his second arrow. This time he aimed for the ice creature's heart.

"Here goes nothing," he muttered to himself and watched the arrow fly straight to its mark. A large ice spear passed his arrow heading straight for his dragon. Rhaegal tried to evade the weapon with Jon holding on to the spikes on Rhaegal's back for dear life, fearing they would not get away in time. Best case scenario the large spear would hit Rhaegal's wing and not a vital part of his body.

Suddenly fire lit up the sky before them. Viserion showed how smart and fast he was by targeting the spear and the icy thing never reached Rhaegal. The ice spear just kind of evaporated? Viserion had changed course as soon as the White Walker had turned its back to him, knowing the creature's next spear would now threaten his brother and human. Having melted ice and snow several times before in order to help his human and his companions traipse faster across this godsforsaken winterland, the dragon had not hesitated and had decided to attempt melting the spear.

When the smoke lifted, the White Walker was no longer on the mountain flank. Jon still reeling from the events preceding their narrow escape soothed Rhaegal and asked him to fly over the spot where the creature had stood only moments ago. Viserion joined his brother and together they discovered a small heap of ice crystals with Jon's two arrows sticking from it and the decayed remains of what once used to be a big horse. He heard joyous shouting and turned his eyes to the battlefield. The men of the Night's Watch were cheering with their weapons raised in the air. All around lifeless bodies of their enemy littered the battlefield. Not a single wight had survived.

Jon saw Tormund, Sandor and a bunch of others wave at him from the rear end of the former enemy lines. A field of carcasses stood between them and the Night's Watch. Jon waved back and signalled toward the direction he would land. Knowing he had time before they crossed the plain, he flew over the main host of the Night's Watch to assess the number of casualties and look out if anyone down there required urgent assistance. He landed as close to their ranks as possible and waited for Tormund and his companions to arrive before sending Rhaegal back up in the air and approaching the brothers of the Night's Watch.

Jon searched the crowd when the battlefield fell silent. He noticed Tormund and Sandor weaving their way through the rotten remains of their defeated enemy in an attempt to get to him. Jon watched Edd Tollet hold his men back when Tormund burst into the open space and enveloped Jon in a bear hug. "My friend the Dragonrider to the rescue once more!" His voice boomed over the crowd on purpose, claiming Jon as his ally loud and clear. Sandor just nodded a greeting his face sporting a content expression for a change. Jon nodded back sensing the man was as least as happy as Tormund to see him. Only someone who knew Clegane well would be able to discern the relief in the big men's eyes, relief to see that Jon was well and not in the process of being threatened by stupid crows again.

Tormund released Jon and looked around to assess the situation. He sobered when he saw a few seriously wounded men. "Zalter here is a healer. Perhaps he can have a look at them?"

Jon's hand was near the hilt of his sword when Edd Tollet and two of his 'brothers' crossed the small distance to come out to greet him. He soon learned that Jeor Mormont had been one of the first to fall. An undead shadow cat had jumped him and the man had fallen from his horse only to land on a discarded weapon of a fallen brother. It was too soon to have a reliable body count. Putting their information together, Jon and Tollet estimated that at least fifty brothers had perished.

This time nobody sneered at him when Jon walked past numerous men to reach the wagon where Jeor Mormont lay unconscious. Two men braved the fierce scowl of Tormund Giantsbane and enthusiastically thanked Jon. A third one started to clap his hands. Mere moments later that small gesture of appreciation had swelled into a loud applause accompanied by elated cheering. Jon had to worm his way through a sea of men to finally get to the Lord Commander. The man was unconscious and someone was awkwardly trying to dress a nasty looking abdominal wound. Jon reminded him to clean the wound first and encouraged them to transport their Lord Commander and perhaps a few other gravely injured brothers to Castle Black with only a small party and take the fastest horses. It would not do the Lord Commander any good to let the entire company slow them down. He assured Edd Tollet that the rest of the enemy was very far north and that they needn't fear an attack from the Free Folk since they all fought on the same side now. A few men approached Jon and apologized for their previous behaviour. Jon accepted their excuses with grace. He stressed once more that they were all on the same side now and that was all that mattered. He promised he would fly to Castle Black to alert them of what happened so they could send for a healer from the nearest town south of the Wall.

***

At first light a wagon with three seriously injured men started its journey back to Castle Black. Jon had counselled Edd Tollet to burn the bodies of their fallen brothers. A large funeral pyre was lit as soon as all the names of the fallen had been recorded. Jon took his leave of Tollet promising him that they would see each other again at Castle Black.

Jon walked alongside Sandor and the Free Folk back to the place where the small party had left their horses. An eagle waited there for him. Jon smiled. He was glad he could now fly directly to Castle Black. He needn't fly to the Free Folk Settlement first to reassure Davos. He quickly scribbled a short message for Davos. A few words to state he was unharmed, they had defeated the enemy and Sandor was on his way back and could provide more details. He tasked Sandor to request Davos to travel back to Castle Black where their Prince would await them. They should not worry about finding Ghost. The wolf was already on its way to Castle Black. When Sandor asked if that was wise what with Renly Baratheon and Jaime Lannister there, Jon just shrugged his shoulders and told him nobody was allowed to send messages south of the Wall for now.

***

This time, he did spot his Uncle Benjen when he flew over the white landscape. Despite the fact that the heavily loaded wagon with dragonglass weapons, Gendry's figure on a horse next to his uncle and the two brothers of the Night's Watch also on horseback increased their visibility from up high, it was the niggling feeling of the nearness of his four legged friend that had alerted Jon to the party below. It frustrated his uncle to no end that now that he was finally headed for the Free Folk settlement, Jon was flying in the opposite direction to warn Castle Black in all haste to fetch a healer. An irritated Benjen Stark practically forbade Jon to leave Castle Black and fly off on a whim before Benjen could return from his journey to the Free Folk settlement. Jon was not to go anywhere before they had a chance to spend some quality time together.

Gendry grinned and told Jon he was grounded, literally. On Gendry's urging however, Benjen Stark explained to the young blacksmith once more how to reach the Free Folk settlement before abandoning him. He turned his horse around and followed Ghost, galloping through the woods at great speed back to Castle Black to reunite with his nephew who of course would arrive there long before he could.

***

A sennight and a half later

Jon's heart was beating so loud that he felt Rhaegal's nervous reaction to it. Viserion screeched loudly next to him clearly affected as well. Jon made an effort to reassure his dragons. What image did you send them to explain to both dragons he was just excited to finally meet his aunt again? He smiled reassuringly at Viserion who was flying as close as possible leaving just enough room for their large wings not to hinder each other. It always amazed Jon how in sync both dragons were.

An image of him embracing Daenerys did the trick. He felt their teasing reply but also their joy at finally meeting the other member of their small family.

Jon estimated they were flying over the Driftmark now. The heavy cloud cover did not help his still developing navigating skills. It would have been more sensible to wait out the storm before starting the last phase of their journey but being so close had been too tempting. The three of them braved the storm and dove below the clouds. Jon was soaking wet in no time but he ignored it taking in the sight of the exotic build of the castle.

This was Dragonstone! He had admired drawings before and has seen it from afar through Rhaegal's eyes when he lived at the Driftmark but nothing had prepared him for the majestic sight from close by of this stronghold his Valyrian ancestors had built when they first came to Westeros. It looked nothing like any castle he had ever seen. He saw with his own eyes what the books had told him about the advanced Valyrian design and the strong stonemasonry techniques used to make it a virtually impenetrable fortress. It would be the perfect refuge, the perfect outpost to start his campaign from. When he finally was able to tear his eyes away, he noticed a large number of ships that danced on soft waves sheltered in a bay a few miles from the beach. He strained his neck and saw another bay filled with anchored ships on the other side of the island. Matters had progressed nicely here while he had been stuck in the North.

As soon as he landed on a cliff near the castle he encouraged his dragons to seek shelter in the caves that were exactly where he had read they should be. Not long after, he regretted he had not asked Rhaegal to drop him off at the top of the long winding stairs. He was winded and even more soaking wet when he finally reached the large gate that provided entrance to the fortress. Either nobody had seen him descend from the clouds or they were all waiting safely inside so they could greet him without getting as wet as he was by now. Apparently it was the latter. Barely two steps inside, Jon got pulled in to a strong embrace only to be released and pulled into another one and another one. Ser Gerold, Ser Oswell and Sam greeted him as if he was the long lost son returning after countless years of exile instead of it being less than two moons since they had parted ways at Sea Dragon Point.

After he had been hugged senseless by the three men that had gotten slightly wet in the progress and had enquired after their wellbeing, a servant approached carrying a few pieces of cloth he offered to the Targaryen Prince. The servant helped his new master discard his wet cloak and waited patiently for the young man to wipe his face and hands before making place for another servant who put a dry cloak over Jon's wet clothes.

As soon as both servants left the hallway, Jon burst out. "Sam! I am so glad to see you. What are you still doing here?"

Sam blushed. "Well, I … I found some books here that had been buried in a storage room under a pile of discarded Targaryen banners and ornaments and I just couldn't resist. As soon as I started to read some of the older scrolls I was hooked." His enthusiasm now made way for nervousness. "I did not disappoint you too much, I hope?" When Jon shook his head he continued once more with growing excitement. "I have been hunting specifically for hints on how best to forge weapons from dragonglass and I think I might have perhaps, possibly, eventually, but I am not sure, it is just a theory…"

"Sam, slow down, speaking so fast is making me dizzy. A theory of what exactly?"

"A long shot but worth trying out though, a theory on how to forge Valyrian Steel!" Sam waited with eagerness for his reaction.

"Wow! Sam, should you succeed in that endeavour that would be the most important find in a thousand years. If there is even the slightest chance of creating something in the vicinity of that, I give you leave to postpone your Maester studies indefinitely. But let us talk about this later this evening. I need to change out of these wet clothes before I meet the Princess Daenerys."

Ser Gerold who had not taken his eyes of his Prince relishing his safe return, interfered before Sam could butcher this delicate reply with his stammering. He scraped his throat to draw the young man's attention back to him. "The ship carrying the Princess home has not arrived yet. They left a day later than planned and the storm will probably have delayed them a bit as well."

"Let us get you out of these wet clothes, my Prince. You will want to greet your new household staff when you are a bit more presentable. I'll alert the cook to prepare some hot soup as well as a hearty meal." Ser Oswell spoke up seeing his Prince shiver. "Come on, I'll escort you to the room that has been prepared for you."

Upon entering a large room on the first floor of the castle, Jon looked around with amazement. He admired a wall covered with large Targaryen banners. Two beautiful dragon statues adorned a large crate in a corner. Every direction he looked, he spotted some exotic looking ornament most of them containing some reference to Valyria or House Targaryen. Even the furs on the bed were dyed in the colours of his father's house. 'My house,' he mentally corrected himself.

"I bet this chamber was not in this state when you arrived here." Jon looked at Ser Oswell who clearly was enjoying his Prince's approval of his new quarters.

"As a matter of fact, it was. Or at least it was halfway through its transformation. The servants started redecorating it as soon as our first scouts spread the rumours of your imminent arrival after Stannis had left. This only shows how welcome you are at Dragonstone, my Prince." Ser Oswell's eyes were moist when he finished this sentence.

"I want to meet every single person who has helped to achieve this result. I want to thank them from the bottom of my heart. I presume these were my father's quarters, as Prince of Dragonstone?"

"Yes, my Prince. And they are once more the quarters of the ruling Prince of Dragonstone. The servants wanted to help you change but I held them off for now wanting to clear this with you first. I know you are not used to being attended at all times of the day. You will need to adapt a little, my Prince. But I have given you a brief moment of respite and they will adjust to your habits. But please consider that they need the employment so allow them to do some things for you. It will make them happy as well."

Ser Oswell moved to a door to his left side. "Through that archway there is a cosy sitting room and study. Sam found a beautiful colour drawing of Prince Rhaegar and the servants hung it over the fireplace in there." Jon followed Ser Oswell to the appointed spot.

Both men contemplated the likeness for a long time. Ser Oswell swallowed several times to keep his tears at bay.

That only heightened Jon's emotions. "I look nothing like him." He remarked softly after some time, regret apparent in his tone when he finally found his voice.

"You do look like him, my Prince. Perhaps not at first sight what with your dark curls and Stark eyes. Look again. Compare your high cheek bones and delicate chin. Add to that the way you hold yourself, the way you move and almost dance while you are fighting. You are your father's son, without a doubt. With Rhaegal and Viserion beside you, nobody will be able to deny that you have the blood of the dragon. They alone are proof enough to convince even the most sceptical people in Westeros. If need be we have written proof as well."

"I am not talking about proof, Ser Oswell. I'm well aware that we have that in abundance. Lord Stark and Ser Gerold made sure of that. It is just that I want to be a true, a good Targaryen. I want to make my father, my family proud and I can't explain why exactly I am plagued by this feeling that it would somehow be easier if I looked the part a bit more."

"Those are just silly notions we grew up with, images that get stuck in our minds." Ser Gerold made both of them startle with his surprise appearance in the doorway. "Just like you were taught that the Free Folk were Wildlings, savages who didn't matter and were to be kept contained with lethal force. I'm sorry if I scared you, my Prince. I just came to warn you that the servants are all gathering in the Great Hall and want a chance to greet their Prince. More specifically they want to see with their own eyes how the Prince and future King Aegon Targaryen Sixth of his Name ascends the ceremonial stone throne where the Prince of Dragonstone normally holds court for his very first time."

"Then I will make quick work of putting on some dry clothes. I want to grasp this chance to thank the people that made me feel so welcome. Can someone show me where they put the finer outfits I left on the ship for you to bring here?"

"At least let him eat bit first, Ser Gerold." Ser Oswell pleaded with his Lord Commander. "Our Prince has flown for the most part of the last two days.

"I'll tell the servants that our Prince needs a bit more time to recover from his long journey and will come as soon as he is able." Ser Gerold immediately complied.

***

The Great Hall was packed with smallfolk. The moment Jon entered the room from a side door behind Ser Gerold and Ser Oswell who had donned a new cloak for the occasion, a silence fell over the room. Ser Gerold motioned for Jon to stay put for a moment. The Lord Commander of his Kingsguard approached the steps before the throne and addressed the people.

"Please welcome Prince Aegon Targaryen, trueborn son of Prince Rhaegar Targaryen and his wife, Lady Lyanna formerly of House Stark. He is the future King of the Seven Kingdoms, the Prince of Dragonstone, the Dragonrider." He motioned for Jon to come forward. The Lord Commander kept his sharp eyes on the people in the front rows. He had ordered the new guards he had recruited amongst loyal families he knew from before and were still living on Dragonstone to search everyone for weapons and not to allow the smallest dagger inside the room. But still you could never be too sure.

Ser Oswell kept himself between his Prince and the smallfolk until Jon ascended the steps before the throne. Only then did the knight position himself before the steps to his Prince's left. Ser Gerold mirrored his position at the right side of the throne. It was the first time Jon laid eyes on the beautiful room. To do so in front of at least a hundred witnesses made the experience even more surreal. He was aware that everybody was waiting to catch their first glimpse of his face. It intimidated him even more than the sight of the throne before him, the throne of the Prince of Dragonstone.

The small drawing in the book on House Targaryen did not do this seat justice. The sight of this throne, and the entire majestic feel of the room, took him by surprise. He was overwhelmed by the righteous beauty of it all. The throne was carved out of a large piece of volcanic rock in such an artistic way that it looked as if the rock's sole purpose for existing had been to put the Prince of Dragonstone into the spotlight and to exhibit the power of House Targaryen. Jon noticed the carvings had the form of dragon scales. A triangular shaped window behind the throne filtered the sunlight that fell on the seat to make the ceremonial chair look even more magical. In some places the warm rays of the sun lit up the neatly polished rock so it looked as if numerous silver leafs were seamlessly embedded into the dark grey rock. With difficulty Jon tore his eyes away from this symbol of Targaryen power and finally turned around to face his people who had stayed silent while they waited for the first real glimpse of their Prince. Jon swallowed and turned around praying fervently that his predominant Stark features would not disappoint them.

To Jon it felt as if the crowd was stunned by his sight. His nervousness grew. Then, one person in the front row kneeled, a few others followed and soon the entire audience paid their respect to the newly arrived Prince of Dragonstone in a similar fashion. Jon needed all his mental strength to conceal how out of his depth he suddenly felt. He hadn't done anything yet to deserve the subservience of these people but still every single one of them granted it to him without prejudice. He felt overwhelmed and the feeling of belonging, of homecoming only got stronger. He stared at his subjects who had kept their kneeling position. Ser Gerold smiled encouragingly at his Prince when Jon ventured a look his way.

"Please rise, people of Dragonstone." Jon was glad his voice somehow still sounded firm and didn't betray the myriad of emotions warring inside of him. He waited patiently until everyone stood once more and the low murmurs had dimmed somewhat before continuing.

"I thank you all for the warm welcome I received from you. I will treasure the memories of this day for as long as I live." He paused to take in the sight before him. His eyes swept over the crowd. He wanted to give his loyal audience the impression he noticed each and every one of them. He also observed Sam standing unobtrusively next to the side door Jon had come through. His friend held a flat wooden tablet and was scribbling fervently. Jon guessed an empty scroll not visible to his eyes lay on top of this makeshift portable desk and Sam was recording things for posterity.

He would have a word with Sam about this later.

For now he focused his attention on the crowd before him. He took heart in the devotion he witnessed in their demeanour. This time he knew his voice would be firm and loud enough so that his words would find their way even to the people standing against the main door at the back of the room. The sight of the three headed dragon carved in the wood of that large door visible above the crowd distracted him for an instant. Somehow the Targaryen sigil inspired him and all of a sudden he knew what he was going to say to the crowd that was waiting patiently for their Prince to continue his address.

"Tomorrow my kin, Princess Daenerys, daughter of King Arys and Queen Rhaella will arrive from Pentos where she was forced to live in exile all these years. I hope you will give her the same warm welcome as I have received when she finally comes home to the place where she was born. Dragonstone belongs to House Targaryen once more and by the grace of the Gods, we will never have to give it up again!" His voice had risen in volume at the end of this declaration. A loud spontaneous applause followed his words. Jon waited for it to lessen before he continued.

"Not only did I bring two powerful dragons with me, I am fortunate to have the support of three loyal knights, members of the Kingsguard that once served my father, Prince Rhaegar. Many of you will recognise to my right the Lord Commander, Ser Gerold Hightower and to my left Ser Oswell Whent. Ser Arthur Dayne who is currently helping our allies in the North, survived the Rebellion as well and will join us later. I owe my life to these three excellent men. Together with House Stark, my mother's kin, they have protected me from the first moment I was born until this very day. I hope to have their loyal support for years to come." Loud cheers erupted as soon as Jon paused once more. He let them run its course enjoying the fact that Ser Gerold and Ser Oswell for once got their time in the spotlight. When the cheers had almost died down, he held up his right hand to silence them so he could continue his speech. He felt empowered by their response and knew this was his opportunity to cement their loyalty and support.

"All around the realm, allies are working together to help House Targaryen regain its rightful place as ruler of the Seven Kingdoms. And I thank each and every one of them. Their silence and discretion have kept me safe for seventeen years. An important part of our strategy to restore the Iron Throne to House Targaryen is stealth and surprise. I beseech you all not to endanger our campaign by sending word of our presence here to the mainland. If we can keep this knowledge from reaching King's Landing for the time being, our plan to …" Jon faltered. 'Could he really do this? Be so brazen as to claim the throne so publicly, tempt the Gods?'

He swallowed and tried once more. "If the Gods are willing, we will depose Robert of House Baratheon with a minimum of bloodshed, and I, Aegon Targaryen vow to you that I will rule the Seven Kingdoms, protect the realm, make it prosper and will do my utmost to keep the peace for as long as I shall reign. So I urge you once more not to send word neither to friends nor family outside of Dragonstone. I count on you all to keep us safe."

The crowd cheered very loudly now. Someone shouted "All hail King Aegon, Sixth of his name! Long may he reign!" This shout was picked up by others and soon the hall was filled with similar chants. This time Jon's hand gestures didn't incite the crowd to stop making noise and listen to him once more. He looked over to Ser Gerold for guidance. The man shrugged his shoulders slightly only perceptible to Jon and smiled proudly. Jon waited a while longer. He turned his head slightly to study the throne. It seemed to lure him in, stronger even, its magnetism seduced him into sitting on it. He stayed upright however, knowing his speech would make a greater impact that way. Finally the cheering lessened.

"Some of my allies have already reached these shores. For the next sennights more ships carrying loyal men from the North, the Riverlands, the Driftmark and from Dragonstone as well will arrive. They will bring food and other resources with them. Also merchant ships with grain will arrive from Pentos. I urge you all to work closely together with these men who are ready to defend our shores against an attack if need be. Help them organize shelter and prepare meals. Together we will ensure Dragonstone will once more become an impenetrable Targaryen stronghold and a safe haven for all who live here. Let me thank you all again for this amazing welcome."

During the standing ovation he received Jon lowered himself gracefully onto his ancestral throne. The happy wide smile he showed the crowd came naturally. The feeling of belonging and homecoming grew stronger than ever. Never in his short life had he been more certain than at this exact moment that what he was doing now was what he had been born to do. His destiny lay here, on these shores. Fuck the Iron Throne. Once Robert Baratheon was gone and he was officially proclaimed the true King of the Seven Kingdoms, he would rule the Seven Kingdoms from Dragonstone. King's Landing could be the capital in name but he would not sit upon that cursed throne. Jon realised his feelings were not rational but were coloured by this experience. He perceived everything through a drunken haze, not due to alcohol but encouraged mostly by the admiration of the crowd and the sight of this imposing stronghold. In this state, nothing, nobody could persuade him that the much fought over Iron Throne would inspire the same feelings in him. When the cheers died out of their own accord, he was at a loss for what to do next.

Ser Gerold sensing his Prince's indecision dismissed everyone by stating that their Prince had just arrived after a long journey and that they would have plenty of opportunity to see him around now that he resided here. Slowly but surely the crowd poured out of the Great Hall.

"You did well, my Prince." Ser Gerold praised him when they were finally alone.

"He did exceedingly well," Ser Oswell said with obvious approval. "If you can make such an inspiring speech when tired and taken unawares, we should have used your words as our weapons earlier. A few rousing speeches like this in every corner of the Seven Kingdoms and the people will carry you to the Iron Throne upon their shoulders."

Jon blushed scarlet. "Do not exaggerate please. This was just a happy fluke. The audience was on my side before I uttered a single word. The smallfolk here loved my father and I am fortunate that they accepted me as his son despite my looks."

"Do not be so humble, my Prince. That attitude won't win you the Seven Kingdoms. "This hearty welcome was not solely because of their love for Prince Rhaegar. The people of the Driftmark that came here to help prepare for your arrival have spread word of your personality, your deeds, the way you control your dragons and have told stories about your loyal exotic looking direwolf." Ser Gerold was quick to point out.

"I am very fortunate," was Jon's only answer.

"As soon as you feel up to it, we need to hold a strategy meeting. I have received updates from the capital written by Varys but containing things Eddard Stark asked him to write. I also want to know what mess you got yourself into at the Wall. The few reports that reached me are probably incomplete, not telling the whole story and outdated by now. Still, some of them have me worried." Ser Gerold was quick to get back to business.

Jon looked around but Sam appeared to have left as well. Probably to write everything down now that it was still fresh in his mind.

Perhaps we can reconvene after lunch? I only ate a few spoonfuls of a delicious soup. I presume there is a meeting room somewhere in this impressive stronghold?"

"There is, my Prince." Ser Gerold and Ser Oswell spoke at the same time. Ser Gerold signalled Ser Oswell to proceed.

"If you so desire, I will show you around later today, my Prince." The knight offered and bowed.

"Not so formal when in private, please." Jon smiled at the two men. "I thank you, Ser Gerold, Ser Oswell but if Princess Daenerys arrives tomorrow, I want to discover the sights of Dragonstone together with her. If you can show me where to find the meeting room then that will be sufficient exploring for today."

"We both will escort you there after lunch, my Prince." Ser Gerold promised.

"Oh and I will want Lord Samwell Tarly to be present at our meeting as well. He will become a fixed member of my small council as soon as he is a Maester in his own right. We might as well profit from his wisdom now that he is still with us. Even without formal training he has already proven himself a valuable asset and I consider myself lucky to have his counsel."

"As are we, my Prince." Ser Gerold affirmed.

***

After supper, in the formal meeting room of his castle with the beautifully carved table, Jon learned that his uncle, Eddard Stark together with the King and his retinue had arrived at the Red Keep a few days before. Apparently they had not wasted any time. Two new laws had been put before the small council and Littlefinger would stand trial any day now. The King appeared sober and according to Varys' account he had also lost a bit of weight.

Jon received this news with mixed feelings. "Uncle Ned passed the law about limiting the authority of armed guards already? I thought this would be one of my first reforms when I became King. It was my idea to improve the lot of the people in King's Landing and garner their goodwill in the process." He shook his head. "What is Uncle Ned thinking?"

"He is being his honourable self and putting the well-being of the people first and our cause second." Ser Gerold's tone was disapproving. "If it is any consolation to you, my Prince, I do not think he did so with the intent to harm you. I am inclined to believe he got carried away. I suggest you write a diplomatic letter to him through Varys. Perhaps Sam can help you with that?"

Jon looked at Sam who tried to stay inconspicuous. His friend smiled back at Jon as soon as their eyes met. "Sam, perhaps we can address this issue tonight if I am not too tired."

"Of course, Jon. I mean, my Prince." The young man stammered.

"Jon in private is still allowed, Sam." Jon sighed. "Please everyone. I am not a King yet. Nothing has changed."

"This is where I politely contradict you, my Prince." Ser Oswell interjected before Ser Gerold got the chance. "Moments ago, you became the ruling Prince of Dragonstone and publicly announced your future role as King. "People perceive you different now and that includes us as well."

"Not to mention to us Targaryen loyalists, you have always been our King but we adhered to your orders and addressed you as our Prince for the time being. We will need to start calling you Aegon instead of Jon as well." Ser Gerold added in an unwavering manner.

"But in private ..."

"We will still treat you with the respect you are due." At Jon's exasperated expression he relented. "But we will try to be a bit less formal than we need to be in public." His words were supported by consenting nods from Ser Oswell and Sam.

"You cannot escape your destiny, Aegon. Besides you are embracing it just fine even if you are struggling with the formalities of a royal court. You are a born leader. The slight increase in formality in our address is just our way of showing you how much we love and respect you." Sam looked apologetic but still made his point by calling his friend Aegon for the first time.

"Our young Tarly has a wonderful way with words. Do we really need to send him to the Citadel?" Ser Oswell remarked half-jokingly.

Jon however considered this last question in all seriousness. "I have been struggling with this as well. Sam however needs to decide for himself what his priorities are for the moment." He smiled wryly at his friend. "Perhaps we can talk about this, the two of us at some time in the course of the next few days? I trust you will stay with us for at least a few more days?"

"Of course, Aegon. But I am curious to hear about your adventures at the Wall. Did you meet more White Walkers? Did you encounter Jaime Lannister or Prince Renly Baratheon at Castle Black? I think I can speak for all three of us when I say we are bursting with curiosity."

"Sam, at least in private, please don't call me Aegon. It sounds strange coming from a friend who has known me as Jon. If you do not want to use that name anymore, can we agree on my Prince for now? I have gotten used to that appellation over the years."

When Sam didn't respond, Jon launched in an uncensored detailed chronological account of everything that had happened since they had parted at Sea Dragon Point. Even though his audience knew much of the first part of his story from reading his messages already, they were riveted and Jon was interrupted a few times by curses or requests for more specifics, the latter mostly from Ser Gerold. Sam was scribbling fervently. Jon explained Jeor Mormont had perished two days after returning to Castle Black. His nasty abdominal wound had become infected and the man had succumbed to a fever.

"Lord Reed had it right again." Sam remarked. When Ser Oswell looked baffled he explained. "Can't you see? Jeor Mormont perished by obtaining a deadly wound when he fell on a friendly sword of a defeated ally. But he fell because he was pushed by an undead shadow cat. Don't you remember the vision he revealed to Jon at Greywater Watch? The one that we tried so hard to make sense of? 'Lion trumps bear without either one using their claws'. A large shadow cat can easily be mistaken for a lion."

Jon nodded gravely at Sam and then continued to describe how according to Edd Tollet the gravely wounded man had been conscious during large parts of their return journey to Castle Black and that once there he had apologized to Jon. Shortly before he died he had gifted his Valyrian sword Longclaw to Cotter Pyke after Jon had politely declined the gift himself excusing his refusal by showing him Blackfyre and hinting that a worthy purpose for the sword could be to become the Valyrian Sword of The Wall. If Mormont agreed, it would be handed down to each new Lord Commander of the Night's Watch from now on.

Jon described how the Night's Watch had trouble dealing with their injured now that they no longer had their own Maester. He had asked Cotter Pyke to search for a volunteer amongst the brothers of the Night's Watch who was intelligent enough to send to the Citadel to start a Maester's training. That way, if the Citadel didn't want to condemn a Maester to serve at the Wall for the rest of his life, they only needed to send a temporary replacement until that time that the Night's Watch recruit had forged his chain.

Cotter Pyke was still interim Lord Commander of the Night's Watch back then and had promised to do his utmost. Upon Jon's request he would also release Jaime Lannister from his solitary confinement as soon as Jon and most of his retinue had left Castle Black and would encourage Prince Renly to give up his self-inflicted isolation.

"The Watch still needs to elect a new commander?" Sam asked.

"Two days after Jeor Mormont's funeral, Cotter Pyke was formally elected as Lord Commander of the Night's Watch. It was fascinating to see how everybody gets a vote to elect their leader. It gives even the lowest recruit a say and makes him feel he can make a difference. It made me question some of our appointments." Jon looked at his audience and saw Sam was the only one who nodded. The others looked rather sceptical at this unfamiliar concept.

"Anyway the new Lord Commander faced his first challenge mere moments after he was elected when he was forced to welcome Prince Oberyn and the exotic looking Nymeria Sand, one of the Prince's beautiful young daughters to Castle Black. I witnessed the strict orders he gave his men when Prince Oberyn and his daughter were escorted to their quarters by Rykker and Stokeworth. The brothers of the Night's Watch were to keep their distance and not engage the lady in conversation if they could avoid it. He threatened with harsh punishments if disobeyed."

"I bet his popularity took a dive." Ser Oswell remarked.

Jon ignored this interruption and continued. "Prince Oberyn received his orders as well. His daughter was not allowed to wander about by herself, she had to be chaperoned by at least two trusted men at all times. Pyke even instructed her to conceal her feminine features by dressing in male clothes and cover up her long hair."

"I would have liked to witness that scene." Ser Gerold was the one that interrupted him this time.

"I found something to take their minds off that and to separate the two slightly insulted Dornish from Cotter Pyke immediately." Jon said matter of fact.

When he noticed two raised eyebrows, one of Ser Gerold and the other of Ser Oswell, he explained.

"I invited the Prince and his daughter to accompany me the top of the Wall and asked Uncle Benjen to come along within earshot of Cotter Pyke. Now follows the scene you should have liked to witness, Ser Gerold. Once they exited the wooden elevator Nymeria as well as her father fell silent, awed by the sheer magnitude of the ice structure combined with the amazing winter landscape that stretched in all directions as far as the eye could see. Uncle Benjen and I shared a secret smile, acknowledging this was the first time ever we had been able to successfully shut Prince Oberyn up for a substantial amount of time."

He paused to check whether his audience appreciated his tale as much as he did remembering it. Everyone smiled but stayed silent eager to hear the next part.

Jon continued his report by relaying they had enjoyed each other's company for two days before Jon needed to leave for a scouting mission. Nymeria had sparred with him but this time her father hadn't taken the bait, not even after Jon's teasing that he was afraid of losing against a green boy.

What he didn't tell them was how Prince Oberyn had expressed his worries about Robb Stark handling the affairs of the Northern Kingdom. The Prince had described Robb's worn out demeanour, Maester Luwin's illness, underlining the fact that Robb didn't have as many loyal advisors as a certain Targaryen Prince. Jon didn't want Robb to be humiliated in the eyes of others and immediately after thanking the Dornish Prince for informing him, he had entreated Prince Oberyn to keep this information to himself, promising Prince Oberyn he would personally see to it that Robb got the necessary support.

He did tell Ser Gerold, Ser Oswell and Sam that Prince Oberyn and his daughter had been disappointed that he could not spare them much time since he needed to abandon them for a scouting mission two days into their visit. Fortunately Uncle Benjen and Prince Oberyn had renewed their easy going relationship and Jon had left secure in the knowledge that Uncle Benjen would keep an eye on the impulsive Prince and make sure he didn't get in too much trouble before Jon was able to return. He returned to Castle Black sooner than expected much to the relief of Davos Seaworth. Jon focussed his eyes on Ser Gerold now.

"I can report that the enemy was still stationed in the far North be it a bit closer to the east side where I spotted a special encampment of the army of the dead in a large open space flanked on all sides by a ring of imposing white mountains. I stayed at a safe distance and used my spyglass. I could clearly sense Rhaegal's and Viserion's reluctance to fly closer. I must confess I am still none the wiser as to what the enemy's next move is going to be. It is impossible at this stage to determine a time schedule. The only thing I can safely conclude is that we have a respite of at least a moon most likely even several."

Spotting Ser Gerold's dejected look, Jon was quick to point out the positive sides of this situation. "Time will work in our favour, Ser Gerold. The Night's Watch and the Free Folk can start strengthening their defences. Gendry and his assistants will have ample time to provide the brothers of the Night's Watch and the Free Folk with sufficient dragonglass weapons. I made sure both parties were convinced of the need to prepare defensive traps around the fortresses along the Wall and the Free Folk settlements." Jon coughed. He was getting hoarse from all the talking and looked around for something to drink. Ser Oswell was the one to hand him a cup of water and Jon took it gratefully. He drank half of the contents quickly and filtered through his news deciding not to tell them about his conversation with Sandor Clegane or Benjen Stark just yet.

He put the cup down and continued his account.

"I do not have to explain how disappointed Prince Oberyn and Nymeria were when they learned that almost immediately after returning from the scouting mission not only I but the rest of my loyal group were planning to leave Castle Black. Prince Oberyn took me aside and complained the journey had taken so long and he hardly got to spend some time with me."

Jon looked at Sam when he continued. "I suggested he could travel to King's Landing now and accept the position on the small council that had recently been offered to him by the Hand of the King, Lord Eddard Stark. The Prince immediately jumped at the chance now that things were developing quickly. He even winked at me and told me he wanted to be at the center of the action when everything went down. He mockingly ordered me to wait for him before staging my coup. "

If everyone left Castle Black, then where are they now?" Ser Gerold asked, perplexed that Sandor and Ser Arthur would abandon their post.

"The ship with dragonglass arrived on the east coast, Ser Gerold. That is why Davos, Ser Arthur, and Gendry have left for Eastwatch the same day I started to fly south. They have taken Ghost with them. Rykker and Stokeworth were allowed to come along as well and will act as my protection detail when I join them at Eastwatch. Prince Oberyn and his daughter eventually decided to accompany them and sail to King's Landing from Eastwatch.

Gendry will put the old workshop at that fortress back in working order and will immediately start the enormous task of forging weapons from the large quantity of dragonglass that our ship has brought north. I urged him to train more men to assist him and not to overdo it. I assured him that we have more time than expected before the dreaded confrontation. Lord Commander Pyke has written an order to the current garrison commander there to facilitate the new arrivals as much as is reasonable and to assign men to assist the young blacksmith in every way they can."

"Davos, after long deliberation, decided to board the same ship escorting the Prince and his daughter that left for White Harbour. Once there they will split up since Davos will assume command of one of our five ship formations leaving White Harbour with destination Dragonstone and the Prince will find a ship that sails directly to King's Landing. It took me a little effort to convince Ser Arthur to join Davos on this voyage south. I argued I would not be with them the first few sennights and when I do return to Eastwatch, I will be safe enough there. The Night's Watch doesn't pose a threat any longer. Rykker and Stokeworth will be there with me. Sandor will help coordinate the defences between the Free Folk and The Night's Watch at Castle Black."

"Does that mean you will not return to Castle Black at all?" Ser Oswell had trouble keeping up with Jon's fast changing plans.

"I plan to use Eastwatch as a base of operations once I return to the Wall. I estimate that will be after a stay here at Dragonstone of probable two or three sennights. Coordinating with the leaders of the Free Folk and the Night's Watch will be easy for me since the distance between Eastwatch and Castle Black means nothing when travelling on dragon's back. That way Jaime Lannister and Prince Renly needn't be confined for my sake. Besides, Sandor is still my direct contact over there."

Before they could ask further questions, he explained that Jaime Lannister had been imprisoned beneath the castle and that Prince Renly appeared to be on house arrest of some sort. The Baratheon Prince had not left his quarters who Jon had been reassured were quite luxurious for Night's Watch standards. Cotter Pyke claimed that the Prince's confinement was of his own volition. Jon noticed Sam's queer look when he mentioned Jaime Lannister and he swiftly continued his tale so nobody could think to ask any questions.

"Before flying south, I made a quick stop at the Free Folk settlement and gave them the newest information on the enemy's position in person. I also provided some recommendations on building up their defences and assured Mance and Tormund that dragonglass weapons were being produced in abundance and they would get their share. More importantly, Orell has promised to check the position of our enemy every other sennight and Mance Rayder will send regular reports to Castle Black."

Jon concealed for now that during his goodbye visit to the Free Folk settlement, Sandor Clegane had asked to talk to him and had immediately come out and explained his dilemma. He was loyal to Jon to a fault and would uphold his vows but he was also very sure that after his time with the Free Folk, he would have even more difficulty to build some semblance of a normal life in the South. He had never fit in there before and he would even less now that he had discovered the Free Folk. They were his kind of people … blunt, honest, crude. He had even started to entertain the thought of starting a family here and perhaps even siring children, something he had never thought possible for him before.

From a very young age he had come to understand that people abhorred his scars and that women not only thought him ugly but were actually scared of him, even before he approached them and was able to utter a single word, southern women would walk an extra mile in bad weather just to avoid having to meet him and being forced to offer a greeting.

Here, beyond the Wall, the women loved his look, his attitude, his strength even his way of talking. Here beyond the Wall, he wore his scars as a badge of honour. Here he had friends, real friends that he could talk to and that understood him and he them. He confessed he had taken a liking to a fierce woman with red hair who would not hesitate to steal him the moment he subtly let her know he was partial to it.

Jon had listened attentively and had nodded a few times during Clegane's tale. He hadn't hesitated with his response. "I need a representative here in the north, Sandor. You are actually solving a problem for me. Benjen Stark needs to return to Winterfell for a while and I would love to have my uncle visit me regularly or even stay in the South. You could become my official liaison, my representative here at the Wall with the Night's Watch and the Free Folk. I would ask of you to visit Castle Black at regular intervals, the frequency of these visits depending on the situation at the time but that would not prevent you from living amongst the Free Folk. I am happy for you, Sandor. Truly." Jon had refrained from touching the big man but he knew Sandor was moved when he noticed the slight shifting of the big man's jaw.

He kept that conversation to himself. Neither would he divulge the details of his meeting with Uncle Benjen. They both had felt the strain on their relationship caused by Jon's frequent absences. An open-hearted discussion had ensued and they had reached a consensus. Uncle Benjen would write a letter to Robb announcing his imminent visit. He would leave the Wall once he was sure Jon's entourage had reached Eastwatch safely and Gendry needed no extra resources. Benjen Stark would then travel to Winterfell, help Robb set matters straight over there. After that he would be free to come south to become a fixed part of Jon's inner circle there. Uncle Benjen had joked he had the best claim to be named grandfather to Jon's children. Both men had said an emotional goodbye comforted by the happy prospect of a shared future.

Knowing Ser Gerold's rigid stance on the tasks of his Kingsguard he would wait until the situation at the Wall was resolved to inform him he was one Kingsguard short.

Ser Gerold's discreet cough brought Jon back to the present. He quickly ended his account by relaying how the flight to Dragonstone had gone smoothly except for the last spell of bad weather. Soon after, they adjourned the meeting. The rest could wait since Jon would be with them for longer than they had expected.

***

That night Jon slept in a bed fit for a king bed and dreamt of a future where things would be easier. The last part of his dream had been strange however. He had enjoyed the sight of three young children playing with the black egg. He woke up with a start remembering that he had forgotten to ask Ser Gerold where they had hidden the third dragon egg. He planned to show it to Dany soon after her arrival.

***

Dany stood at the bow of the ship and watched how the shoreline and the fortress grew bigger with each mile they sailed closer to the island. She had put on her best dress. It had taken Septa Moelle and herself ages to embroider it but it had been worth the effort. She knew that she looked regal. The people at Dragonstone would immediately recognise her for the Princess she was. She hoped her nephew would be proud of her.

Ser Barristan had told her Prince Aegon most likely would still be at the Wall facing a mythical enemy but she was not so sure that he was right. She could have sworn she had spotted a dragon earlier and had asked the loyal knight to procure a spyglass for her. As soon as he reappeared with the requested item, Dany awkwardly pointed it at the spot where she had been so sure she had spotted the silverwhite animal. Thoroughly scouring the green landscape with the spyglass didn't make her any wiser. Disappointed she handed the spyglass back to Ser Barristan. The man however didn't accept it right away. In fact he didn't notice her holding it out to him. His head was lifted upwards and he seemed to be admiring something. Daenerys followed his gaze. Heavens be praised. There they were. The silverwhite dragon, Viserion she recalled, was flying towards their ship followed by his brother Rhaegal. Daenerys filled with relief laughed out loud. If both dragons were here, then her nephew was here as well. She waved enthusiastically at the dragons. Her heart sang with joy. She was here, he was here. They were home!

Daenerys almost forgot the royal impression she wanted to make on the large crowd who had gathered to welcome her home. She refrained herself at the very last moment from jumping out of the small rowing boat that carried her to the beach. Slowly she made her first tentative steps on the white sand, her eager eyes searching for the dark curly head of her nephew amidst the crowd.

She stopped in her tracks when she saw him. The crowd had split in two and were bowing to him as he strode purposely toward her, his head held high. If anyone looked regal, it was him. Despite his youth, he exuded leadership and had a charming personality that apparently already had won him the devotion of the smallfolk here on Dragonstone. She hesitated, not sure how to conduct such a public greeting. Her nephew also faltered a fraction of a moment when their eyes met but then a welcoming smile lit his handsome features and he continued his approach. When he stood a mere step away, he took both of her hands in his and kissed her right cheek.

"May I be the first to welcome you to our ancestral lands, Princess Daenerys? I wish only happy days will befall you on these shores." A playful wink belied the formality of his words.

"I thank you, Prince Aegon. I am glad to finally be home where I belong." She played along for the benefit of the crowd to which she addressed her next words. "I thank you all for this nice welcome. It warms my heart to see House Targaryen still counts so many devoted supporters on this island that has been our family's home for centuries and is our home once again. I promise that the Prince and I will forever be grateful for your unwavering loyalty."

Happy cheers rose up. Jon exchanged a warm be it formal greeting for the sake of the crowd with Ser Barristan and thanked him for bringing Princess Daenerys safely home .

"I am glad to see you surrounded by the people of Dragonstone, my Prince. It warms my old heart to witness that a trueborn Targaryen once more rules this castle."

"Ser Jorah Mormont did not travel with you?" Jon asked the knight after acknowledging his statement with a nod.

"He volunteered to stay behind, close the villa and tie up other loose ends." Ser Barristan hesitated before he continued. "You do realise that the pardon that was offered to him will have to be granted by a ruling King. So if you offer it to him now it will have no value until you are officially the ruler of the Seven Kingdoms. King Robert can apprehend him the moment he sets foot on Westerosi soil and your father would be obliged to carry out the sentence he condemned Mormont to all these years ago."

"He will be as safe on Dragonstone as the Princess. King Robert wants both their heads. Mine as well if he knew of my existence. Does Mormont not know that?" Jon countered.

"Rationally he does, the mind and the heart though are not always on the same side. He will rejoin Princess Daenerys' entourage, my Prince, only with a slight delay. He is extremely loyal to her."

Ser Barristan smiled at seeing Daenerys mingle with the people. "The people see her and remember her mother and brother."

"The people seem to remember you too, Ser Barristan." Jon looked pointedly at a group who was trying to get the knight's attention. "Please take your time to greet them. I'll escort the Princess to the Great Hall."

He held his arm out to Daenerys and when she took it, he firmly tucked her small hand under his elbow and led her to where Ser Gerold and Ser Oswell were discreetly keeping an eye on their Prince.

"I believe you remember Ser Oswell from our visit in Pentos. That leaves me to present to you the Lord Commander of my Kingsguard, who once held the same position for your father and brother. This is Ser Gerold."

After a short polite exchange Jon took her arm again and proceeded to lead her towards the long winding steps she had read about in the beautiful bound book that always rested on her night stand ever since he had gifted it to her. The heavy tome was now safely packed in a trunk and had made the journey alongside her. It would soon find a place in her bedchambers once more.

"I hope your shoes are comfortable enough." He whispered in her ear. "I haven't counted the steps but they sure are numerous."

"I'll manage, besides I have your arm to lean on to." She answered shyly and looked deep into his grey Stark eyes. They were the same intelligent, sensitive orbs she had so often dreamed of.

"Always," was his solemn reply and he returned the intensity of her gaze.

Daenerys blushed but attacked the stairs with renewed energy. She was winded when they reached the top. "Amazing sight isn't it." Jon remarked when he saw her admire the large gate that provided entrance to the stronghold. Her cheeks were red from exertion, her breath a bit laboured. It only enhanced her attractiveness.

"Indeed. It is the first time I see the sigil of our house displayed so large and brazenly for all to see. I have only seen it in books and on some faded banners my brother had smuggled from Westeros." Daenerys had just enough breath left to tell him.

"Is it really brazen to have your sigil decorate the door of your own stronghold?" he remarked in a slightly teasing tone.

"It is when it is that large and ostentatious." She returned his smile feeling happy that he was so playful in her company.

He waited till her breathing had evened out and they both admired the view from up there. Then he took her hand in his again. "Come on, let me show you inside. I have only seen the throne room and the few rooms I used to eat, hold a meeting in and sleep. It was enough though to be mighty impressed with our ancestors who built this place."

Daenerys stopped him the moment the large door closed behind the four of them. The two Kingsguard moved a bit to the side to give them some privacy. She turned to him with wide eyes. "You have only … Aegon, or do you still call yourself Jon? When did you arrive?" She saw the colour rise in his cheeks.

"Yesterday. I had calculated you would arrive yesterday and I wanted to be there too to..."

He couldn't finish his sentence. Daenerys had embraced him. Her slim arms were hugging him fiercely. "Thank you," she whispered in his ears. "It means a lot to me that you made the effort to come all this way. It means you still want me with you. I was worried that I was just another duty for you, just another responsibility."

"If you are, you are certainly the most beautiful one." He teased but the light in his eyes betrayed that he was flirting a bit with her. "You are not just another duty. You are my kin, the only kin of my Targaryen family." He slowly entangled her arms from his neck and tucked her hand under his elbow once more. His eyes had lost a bit of their warmth and seemed more reserved all of a sudden. She hoped it was because he remembered the recent demise of their Uncle Aemon or the fact that they were chaperoned by his two guards who had averted their eyes when she embraced him and not due to the fact that her impulsive gesture had embarrassed him. Together they entered the Great Hall where the Targaryen throne caught her eyes immediately. She startled when he spoke up again.

"To answer your earlier question, I think that here at Dragonstone and when I start my campaign openly, I need to be Aegon. Don't be mad though if I won't always react to it at first. I still think of myself as Jon. I have learned to respond to 'my Prince' though." He teased.

Daenerys didn't reply. She didn't look him in the eyes not wanting to betray too soon that his deep voice made her feel warm inside and she was once more very much in love with him. Just as she had been almost from the first moment they met moons ago in Pentos. She focused on the beautiful sight of the throne she had heard her brother talk about so often when he was still alive.

Interlude20: Ravens

To my adopted brother Jon,

When are you coming to visit Winterfell again? I miss you and want to spar with you. I have improved lots. Robb needs you too. He always sits at his desk looking serious and old. He never has fun like Theon and Ramsay Snow. These two are always together. I do not like either of them. They pester Robb as well as me. I once kicked Ramsay's shin but lucky for him, Theon pulled the bastard away from me before I could hurt him some more.

Come visit soon Jon. I want to see if Ghost is as big as Nymeria. I'm sure they would like each other as much as we do.

Arya of House Stark

Your most loyal friend and adopted sister

***

To the Hand of the King, Lord Eddard of House Stark, Warden of the North and Lord of Winterfell

My Lord Hand,

On your behest, Yohn Royce sent me to the Twins to put things in order. I was glad to be allowed to support my family since my brother is ailing and my Nephew Edmure is somewhat 'indecisive'.

Lord Walder of House Frey at first objected to pay the overdue taxes to his Lord Paramount. According to him income at the Twins has been more than cut in half since hardly any travellers have crossed the Green Fork at the Twins over the last six moons. He suspects many travellers are making the journey by ship these days.

A few words on my end however persuaded him to pay House Tully our due and made him promise faithfully to do so on time of his own accord in future.

Your faithful servant,

Ser Brynden of House Tully

The Blackfish

***

To Willas of House Tyrell, heir to the Reach

Willas,

Come home this instant and bring your wayward brother with you! Your father and I are leaving for the capital and we will take Margaery with us. You are needed in Highgarden.

It will not do for you to weaken our negotiating position in King's Landing should you both stay as guests in the North. People might get the impression that House Stark holds sway over House Tyrell and will not trust us to have power in our own right.

I expect you home as expedient as travel allows.

Your grandmother,

The Lady Olenna of House Tyrell

Acting Lord Paramount of the Reach in the absence of her son

***

To the Hand of the King, Lord Eddard of House Stark, Warden of the North and Lord of Winterfell

My Lord Hand,

I heard of the successful conviction of the traitor to the Crown, Petyr Baelish. I trust the evidence I provided was helpful.

When can we meet to discuss the next phase of our agreement?

I remain at your disposal,

Lord Tyrion of House Lannister,

Warden of the West

***

To Robert of House Baratheon, King of the Andals, the Rhoynar, and the First Men, Lord of the Seven Kingdoms, Protector of the Realm, Lord Paramount of the Stormlands

My King,

Beware of traitors in your midst. Even a dear friend close to you can prove false.

A loyal subject

***

To Prince Oberyn Nymeros of House Martell, Prince of Dorne, The Red Viper

Brother,

I heard of your appointment to the small council. As Head of our House I command you to accept this position. I realise this will be hard for you but I need you to be my eyes and ears in King's Landing. You might even find some small justice in sabotaging the rule of this cruel unjust King.

Did you happen to receive word of my son? He still hasn't returned from his travels.

Prince Doran of House Martell

Prince of Dorne, Lord of Sunspear

***

To Jon Celtigar

Hope this missive finds you well. Due to certain rumours our assignments have tripled and we have doubled our fee. I might one day ask you to make a short appearance to lend us more credibility. As yet no plea received to take you out.

Strickland

***

To Harry Strickland

Captain-General of the Golden Company

Find the knight who protected my aunt in Pentos. He can translate this message for you.

If you accept my proposal, I'll let you know the exact timing.

Lliw t'noD kcatta deen Ekyp troppus htiw tub snogard dnes dna llams Aray tnegnitnoc Yojyerg fo noos nem.Tel Aray meht Yojyerg ekam lliw emos mialcorp sukcur raf os dna ouy ediw nac taht mialc rouy eht ynapmoc yrotciv depleh reh.

Jon