A soft rap came across the heavy, oak door of Eliesse's chamber.

Eliesse sat up in the bed in haste, her heart wild with fright and angst as she stared doomingly at the great door. Her breath that had been so gentle while she slumbered had suddenly begun to flee the Dornish girl's lips in a desperate attempt to evade the inevitable that loomed on the other side of her door.

It opened quietly, a soft creak sending frantic shrill up the girl's spine. "My flower, have you awaken?" Thara.

Eliesse's turned swiftly to her side, her hand grasping desperately at the sheet that would surely be wrapped around a naked and resting bastard boy.

But he was not there.

Eliesse's released the angst that hid doubtlessly within her chest. She turned calmly back to the handmaiden who greeted her with a tender smile and tray of food. Sweet bread and porridge; the girl's favorite. "I thought you'd like to break your fast in privacy after such a...turbulent night. Come, sweet—whilst it is still hot".

Thara placed the tray at Eliesse's bedside table and began to pull the sheets away from the girl. Her hand brushed a strange wetness at the sheet that was oddly set at the edge of the girl's bed. The handmaiden made no motion or allowed a flicker of her surprise to wash across her russet face, despite her curiosity at the strange spot. Perhaps the girl had wet herself in the night after the frustrating and worrisome events that'd passed. But as Thara drew the sheets farther away and revealed that the lioness was bare and her leg peculiarly red and tender, she premised the worst.

Jon had been here.

Still, Thara remained quiet. She did not wish to upset or accuse the Dornish girl after such a invading night already. And if the sheet was wet, perhaps it could mean the girl heeded some of the woman's word and warned the boy of his wandering seed.

She tore the sheet away and rolled it up quickly. She didn't want any other servant wenches to find the damp blanket that smelt of a man.

"Perhaps, I could have a bath first" Eliesse muttered quietly, standing from the bed. She watched Thara curiously as the woman tucked her linens deep into the woven basket she'd use for the woman's dirty clothes. She must've known. Thara was no fool, and not an inexperienced woman. Eliesse was sure she had had her fair share of changing wet sheets and oddly smelling linen while serving in Sunspear.

Especially with uncle Oberyn around.

Eliesse shifted uncomfortably from one leg to the other, feeling the familiar wet of the bastard and herself between her legs. She pondered for a moment if Jon had actually remembered her warnings...I'm sure he did. I will ask of him to be sure...she thought quietly to herself. She winced silently at the throbbing pain upon her upper, left thigh that Jon had been holding too roughly last night. The sensation both aggravated and excited her. She would be sure to pay the greedy wolf back somehow.

"Of course, my flower. I will prepare it now, eat a little for now" Thara spoke gently once more, disappearing into the woman's bath chamber. Eliesse peered timidly around the to ensure the Dornish woman was busy at her task at hand. And sure enough she was; Thara had begun to warm fresh water and drop familiar oils and scents into the modest tub.

Eliesse turned curtly to her bed, something catching her eye whilst the handmaiden had worked silently around her moments before. She glanced underneath a soft pillow that had rested Jon's head only a few hours before. A small parchment with a note written upon it.

Eliesse peered quietly from the bed, watching Thara run her hands in and about the water in the tub. She was likely checking it's temperature and making sure it was hot enough for the lioness. She knew the girl loved her baths to be as scalding as the Dorne heat itself.

Perhaps it reminded her of home and elicited necessary comfort.

Eliesse opened the small paper quietly, her eyes fluttering up every so often to check on Thara's whereabouts within the chamber. When she was satisfied that the woman was heavily preoccupied, she began to unfold the small letter and read its contents.

"I wanted to make sure I left before the castle became busy with servants, handmaids and wenches preparing the mornings feasts and stalking in and out of chambers for upkeep. Sleep well, Ellie. Come and find me in the Godswood after you have broke your fast. Jon."

Eliesse felt her heart flutter at the boy's messy scrawl. She cursed herself for the childish feeling...she hated how he could do this to her so simply. No matter how much she tried to disregard the boy's smile and word at her, she couldn't deny the weakness and internal fury it'd spark within.

"Your bath is ready, my flower" Thara's voice pierced the girl's fantasy of the bastard boy, bringing her back to the reality she stood from. Eliesse quickly tucked the note away into her bedside table before the woman entered the room.

"Thank you, Thara" Eliesse smiled innocently, her step as confident as she could muster despite the internal jittering she had been doing since finding Jon's note.

Eliesse crept slow to the tub. The smell of lavender tickled her nose pleasantly as she relished in the heat that radiated gently from the tub. Timidly, she placed a foot inside, Thara holding the small of her back and hand to assist her. She sunk low into the sweltering waters, relishing the heat that swallowed her inch by inch across her curving body. She sat in relief, her breath finally free to leave. The water provided a necessary soothe she didn't realize she required after last night's activities with the very dominant bastard boy.

Thara took a pail and placed a moderate amount of bath water within it. Slowly she drew it over Eliesse's hair, watching as the girl closed her eyes at the relaxing sensation it bore. "The water is not too hot?" Thara questioned quietly. Eliesse shook her head with her eyes still shut in content.

"It is perfect, thank you Thara" she spoke softly. She wondered if Thara was pondering the woman's wet sheets...or had seen the strange, red bruise that resembled much a man's handprint. She wondered...if the handmaid suspected Jon. Her eyes opened in a shimmer on anxiety. "Should we speak more of...what is to come?" Eliesse whispered as quiet as her trembling voice would permit. She turned in the tub, her eyes pleading of Thara to forgive what the woman surely knew. Yes, he was here, Thara...I'm sorry for not heeding you.

Thara met he girl's eyes softly, concern swimming within her warm, brown pools. She knew. And she couldn't truly blame the girl...she was in love. No matter what the handmaid spoke of concern to her...or any person would've said in advice of the girl...she would do what she wished—what she needed, and felt what was right.

And Thara feared it would get them all killed.

"You wish to run. With Jon...I don't believe that is a good path to take, Eliesse" Thara spoke quietly, brushing through the girl's slick, golden locks.

Eliesse chewed her plump, red lip in frustration. This life...this circumstance. Was a game of chest and Eliesse was the queen. Running would get them killed, King Robert would raise his banners and hunt the woman down for treason. No where would be safe in Westeros...she'd have to flee to Essos. But what was the point of fleeing to Essos without an army to bring the Targaryen children back? Instead of two fugitives, there would be four.

Two Targaryens, a Snow and Lannister.

But if she remained in Westeros and heeded Lord Stark's word, she would be safe. She would remain Robb's betrothed and be basked in safety...until Ned sent word for her to be released from the north. She was sure her grandfather would seek some retribution for thwarting his plans and generating a trial against his house and children…

Children...Tyrion...the girl's father...did he have some hand in this treachery? Perhaps this is why he evaded the girl so diligently…

So she would stay. Winterfell under Ned Stark's wife and son's watch was a safe haven...but Lady Stark would not allow Jon Snow to remain here whilst his father was south. The pleasantries—if any—would cease once Lord Stark rose south.

So it was the Wall then for the bastard…

"I won't run...and I won't leave Jon" Eliesse spoke finally after a grueling moment of silence. The sound of bath water falling against her skin and into the body of water as Thara rinsed her, echoed ominously in the still chamber.

"Then what will you do, my flower? Follow him?" Thara chuckled slightly, though the gesture did not reach her eyes. She glanced around to peer at the lioness' eyes that were focused and firm. The fleeting smile dissipated from her russet face at once.

She did mean to follow him.

"I will...ask Robb, if I could tour the northern wall. He knows how little I've seen of this country while under Tywin's watch. I always tell him my love for travel and adventure. I will request a small Guard to escort me north...for a short time. As Lady Stark coming, and the wife to be of the future Warden of the North, I'm sure Castle Black will honor the visit. Besides...I'm still a Lannister. Our pockets are deep...I will pay my fucking way into that castle if I have to. I can't leave Jon. I will try and buy us some time...with travel...and stay...possibly a moon we will be guests of the north. Hopefully that will give Ned some time to uncover something...anything to bring Tywin Lannister before the Royal Court" Eliesse spoke reassuringly, her eyes pleading for confirmation of her trusted handmaiden. Thara stared wildly at the girl like Eliesse had watched Jon the night before when he spoke of this plan to bring her with him to the Wall.

Kidnapping...Eliesse scoffed in her mind. A tour sounds a bit more civilized and might keep the pair alive longer.

"...Eliesse, this plan...is...uncertain. Do you think Robb and Lady Stark would even grant you leave? It is unlike a lady to travel without her betrothed. They may suggest Robb to follow you. A goodwill trip to Castle Black to introduce the coming Lady and Lord Stark to be" Thara rose from her stool at the woman's bathside. She retrieved the girl's robe from a counter top. Eliesse rose quietly when the woman returned to her.

"Robb can not afford to leave. With his father gone, he will ascend to Lord of Winterfell. He must learn a Lord's duties...I'm sure Lady Stark, he and the Maesters will be busy organizing the castle affairs and ensuring an organized passing of responsibility to Robb eventually...Lady Stark will still head the duties and castle responsibilities...but I'm sure Robb will eventually lead. Besides...I'm a Lannister, by birth right, I hold a seat to the wealthiest, most honorable and powerful House in the Seven Kingdoms. Lady Stark won't want to screw up her chances of marrying her son to such a family. They will give me my leave...what I'm requesting is noble. They will be happy to know that I am taking my future title seriously and wanting to become accustomed to their northern lands. I'm sure of it". Eliesse rose from the bath, allowing Thara to wrap her slick frame in plush linen.

"Robb will not wish for you to be away for so long...if what I witness holds true...the young wolf admires you very much...and I'm sure this delay in your marriage his father has ordered will only grow him impatient. He will surely be writing every day to his father in the south...what has Lord Stark deemed the purpose for this delay?" Thara questioned while she pulled fine silks from a chest. She chose a navy blue velvet dress, with long billowing sleeves and a bodice that was almost too prude. Eliesse scrunched her nose inwardly at the sight of the stifling dressings...though she knew the reason behind the choice.

She was a spoken for lady now. There would be no more slinky, sheer dresses of fine Dornish silk to flaunt in Winterfell. Her body and the glory it bore was for Robb Stark now…

At least, in theory. Eliesse was truly all Jon's.

Still, the lioness scoffed at the premise. She was a Martell and a Lannister. And she would wear as she pleased.

Thara helped the girl into the dress, pulling it smoothly over the woman's olive flesh and tightening the corset strings. Eliesse turned to the Dornish handmaid once the strings were fastened comfortably. She glanced down, her eyes heavy with a sadness she didn't wish to acknowledge. "I...asked if he could delay the wedding...so word could be sent to my uncle Oberyn. I would wish for him to give me away. It will take time for a letter to reach Dorne…and time again for it to return. The journey north from Dorne would take well over a moon...maybe even two...they would have to sail from Sunspear to White Harbor...it buys us a convenient amount of time" Eliesse's eyes rose proudly, all sadness dissipating from them and being replaced with the confidence of a true lion; a true Lannister. Thara pressed her lips into a thin line at the notion, her usually rhythmic heart losing its balance.

Oberyn…

"You have thought this through well, my flower. I suppose the only task left is to speak with young Robb…Perhaps, if the boy knew the truth behind your betrothal...he would be more privied to oblige your request. I do not foresee the boy becoming cross at learning the truth behind your delay in marriage. If he knew his father was investigating conspiracies against the Crown...and that you were part of a greater elaborate scheme..." Thara spoke gently, her eyes searching the lioness for affirmation and approval. But the girl looked away, her eyes firm and unmoving. She disagreed.

"No. We...Jon and I decided it would be best to keep Robb in the dark. Robb...is much like his father when honor is mentioned. If he knew he too were a ploy in Tywin's game...he'd call off the marriage himself...no matter what his mother or father spoke. My honor...and what is right to do by it...would be most important to the boy. He would feel it is his duty to liberate me...I fear he'd raise his banners against the Lannisters, once he is officiated as Lord of Winterfell—which would mean against King Robert. This whole marriage was Robert's doing...if Robb refuses on the premise that it is a marriage built to obtain power...and him and I only a use for producing an heir and eliciting generational compliance in the King's reign...it would not end well. Robb having knowledge would put him indirectly in danger, for what he would feel obligated to do with it. It is best he remains in the dark" Eliesse spoke firmly, her eyes bidding a silent request to Thara.

Thara nodded silently. The lioness was right, though she didn't wish to agree upon it. It was clear the woman and her love had spoken relentlessly of the matter. They had crossed every bridge, pondered every solution. Though Thara wouldn't admit to the young girl that she didn't quite believe Robb Stark, let alone the man's mother would agree to such a request as a northern tour. She kept her resonations to herself. She didn't wish to upset the Dornish girl any further than her predicament likely had.

"Of course, my flower" She spoke gently, no hindering of doubt prevalent at her lips. "Come, you are dressed for the day".

—

Eliesse walked briskly down her chamber doors, listening to every step that remarked a soft patter at her shoes. She could vaguely hear the bustle of Winterfell's morning feet. Wenches, kitchen maidens and servants could be heard talking amorously of the night before. It was true, King Robert's announcement had elicited a grand celebration that trickled deep into the early mornings. Eliesse frowned at the notion; she wondered how many had heard of her little seizure, as well.

Eliesse stopped at the bottom of the stairs, her eyes suddenly alert at what stood before her so bluntly.

Robb.

"Good morning, my Lady...I'm sorry if I've startled you. I've been waiting all morning...I mean, last night when I found you sick, I wanted to be there with you but my father suggested rest would be the best priority for you...I'm sorry if that disappoints you...seeing as...well...we are bet—well, that you and I...you are my…" Robb began to stammer, his weight shifting awkwardly from one foot to the other. It was an unbecoming sight for the usually firm and clever boy. His normally pale face had begun to turn a peculiar shade of pink at the apples of his cheek. He was embarrassed. Eliesse frowned at the site. She felt bad for the usually confident young prince.

"It is alright, Robb. I am well...your father has seen to my care around the clock by Maesters. I am feeling much better, thank you…" Eliesse stood still before the boy, her eyes dropping curiously to the large grey cloak adorned with white wolf fur in his hand. "What else brings you to my chamber, My Lord?" She questioned lightly, trying her best to accompany her monotone word with a friendly smile.

She did not forget their last interaction. And though the woman now knew Robb was not to blame for the recent news, she couldn't help but still feel resentful for a predicament she wanted so direly not.

Robb followed the lioness' eyes that resides on the heavy furs within his arm. "Oh, my Lady...I was hoping we could go for a ride outside of Winterfell's gates...perhaps to the forest. To speak in private of...last night's announcement. I noticed you were quite...disturbed by the news. I wanted to get a chance to speak to you about your feelings...and maybe, if you would do me the honor of hearing mine...I, uh...brought you my best cloak. I noticed yours are still a little skimmish...but I suppose now I can get the castle seamstress to make your something more suitable for the north" the young wolf met Eliesse's eyes warily as they searched for glimmer of approval that he so desperately craved, it would seem. She cringed at his last words but bid no noticeable quiver at it.

Jon...he's awaiting me in the Godswood…

"Of course, my Lord. Thank you for your kindness" Eliesse muttered. She reached for the cloak, but Robb withdrew immediately.

"Please, allow me…" He walked quietly behind the lioness, unraveling the cloak. Eliesse stood still, her eyes forward and much aware of the kitchen wenches and servants who had begun to pool in the corners of the castle and pay her curious stares. She glared ominously at them, her nostrils flaring in irritation. If they wanted something to look at, she would surely provide it...a few maidens caught her warning glance and dissipated immediately. Eliesse pondered if they were watching her because she was the new Lady of Winterfell to come…

...or if they'd heard whispers of what happened the night before.

The heavy furs fumbled over her shoulders as Robb walked in front of her to fasten the strings. "It's a little big...but it'll suit you and serve its purpose" he smiled politely, stepping back to observe the woman. Eliesse saw a flicker of affection flash in his eyes as he looked her over adoringly in his dressings. He must've felt smitten at the sight of her in Stark colors.

She looked away from his tender gaze. She was not a Stark and she never would be.

"Alright then, let us be on our way" Eliesse quickly spoke, marching ahead of the young wolf. Robb flinched at her eagerness but swept the notion aside. He smiled as he quickened his pace to meet the Dornish girl. He extended his arm to her with another polite smile. Eliesse smiled graciously and took it, though a sinking feeling had begun to brew in the pit of her stomach.

—

The northern air rushed through Eliesse's hair as she thrashed Snow's reigns onward, earning a excited gallop from the steed. She laughed happily, the feeling genuine and honest as her adrenaline spiked while she ventured aggressively through the winding woods. She glanced behind her to Robb Stark who was hot on her heels with a mirroring toothy smile and hearty laugh.

This was nice; she enjoyed these moments with Robb. During all her time in Winterfell as now a young woman and before a younger girl, Robb had always bid her good banter and jest. They had built a strong friendship on their competitiveness and yearn for adventure those past years.

But Robb looked at her differently. Yes, it was true that the young wolf always sort of admired the beauty. Perhaps it was the fact that she was unlike any maiden he'd met before. She was brave, witty, fierce...and could handle a sword better than he, Jon or even Greyjoy. She was truly a sight...and in the five years that had passed, she had only blossomed into a greater masterpiece.

The wolf couldn't help falling so deeply in infatuation for her.

They could rule the north with an iron fist. Both Robb and Eliesse were fierce and strong...and their children would be even mightier...Robb fantasized this relentlessly since the King had made his announcement that they would be wed. He imagined her adorned in white, Dornish silk. He marveled at the idea of their wedding feast, their bedding celebration...and ultimately, her and what it would feel like to be with someone so utterly divine.

But he had seen Eliesse's eyes the other night...something was amiss. Though he knew the news had clearly bid her a terrible grief...he yearned to know why. "Eliesse!" Robb called after the girl who was pulling farther ahead into the dark brush.

Eliesse turned, slowing her pace to meet the lad's beckoning call. "Can't keep up, Stark?" She laughed, halting Snow. She yanked her steed's reigns, pulling the horse around to meet Robb who had begun to trot forward on his own. "You were always the slower one" she smirked, her eyes wild with Dornish spirit. Robb loved that part of her...

He marveled at the sight for a moment, losing his train of thought. "...I believe you're thinking of Jon. He was always the less experienced rider" he smiled playfully at the girl.

He has more experience than you think, boy…Eliesse thought curtly to herself, a delicious chill running hot down her spine. "Perhaps" she spoke quickly, swaying from Robb's blue stare. She jumped off the horse, and glanced over her shoulder to a pretty lake that glowed hauntingly green with moss and brush at its reflection. A fog lapped ominously at its surface, creating a soft chill in the girl's sight. It was strangely beautiful, to say the least.

Robb watched her under his red curls as he fastened his horse to a tree. "Pretty, isn't it?" He spoke after a grueling pause. Eliesse turned to meet his eyes, noting he was approaching her. She peered away and gazed back to the crisp lake. She nodded slowly, tightening the knot of Snow's reigns that she had drawn.

"How did you know of this place?" Eliesse asked quietly as Robb came to stand before the woman. He watched it adoringly, his eyes flickering to her plump lips and golden eyes. She felt uncomfortable at the his gaze...but she did not move. She was worried if she did, her true feeling of matters would reveal in an ugly fashion. So, she stood still, allowing the boy to hungrily soak in the beauty that was her.

"My father took me here once, he told me when him and my mother had first married and she travelled to Winterfell from Riverrun when Robert's war was won...he took her here. To speak to her about how she felt...truly. You know, my mother was never meant for my father" Robb glanced to his side at the lioness who had taken up place there quietly. Her eyes were forward, boring into the lake ahead of her. She did not flinch or let any emotion she felt trickle through. Robb frowned at the fact, wishing she would let her guard down and speak freely. He would never judge or be cross with her for it.

"Is that so? Who was she meant for then?" Eliesse asked after a pressing moment. She was genuinely curious...Lady Stark was rather...prickled. She couldn't imagine any man taking her hand by choice. So, the question stood; who was the once unlucky turned lucky bastard? The air was thick and silent around the pair. Robb kept his eyes forward as well, his hands folding boldly over his chest as he sucked in a daring breath.

"His brother...my uncle who died during Robert's Rebellion...Brandon Stark".

Eliesse cringed at the ominity of his revelation and mentally slapped herself for the crude inner dialogue a moment before.

Catelyn was meant for Ned's brother...as the lioness was meant for Robb's.

"That must've been quite awkward" Eliesse stifled a laugh. She cursed herself once more for the blunt display...how stupid and ignorant of her to do such a thing in Robb's presence. To laugh ill of the dead...and his uncle, at that. The girl must've gone mad in her mind at the irony of it all.

Robb was not sore from the girl's reaction. He smiled quietly as well. "I suppose...my father wanted to speak to her about the circumstance. Funny he would speak after the fact that they were already married off and I was born, as well. It seemed the conversation was a tad too late" it was Robb's turn to laugh now. Eliesse smiled at the sound, appreciating Robb's ability to find humor in the ugly circumstance. "When my father and mother came to bid me news that I would be wed to a Frey girl some day...I was cross. I wouldn't speak to them for days. I bloodied my fist on the stable wall...I thought it was unfair…" Robb smiled to himself, likely reflecting on a turbulent but amusing time of his youth. "It was just after you had visited Winterfell. Probably...a few months after you'd left. I…" Robb stopped suddenly, turning to the girl slowly. Eliesse met his stare curiously, wondering what word lay at bay in the boy's mouth that did not wish to part through.

"You...what?" Eliesse encouraged, cocking a proud brow at the young wolf. Robb met her eyes, his own holding something she couldn't comprehend.

"I...was upset. Because I...well...it's amusing actually...maybe not so much to you...but I got upset with them and told them that I wanted to marry you" Robb laughed quietly, his hand suddenly twitched under the weight of his arm that held it firm. He was nervous. She made him nervous.

Eliesse's eyes widened in recognition. Robb...has cared for her...for so long…she turned completely to him, her brows unwinding in curiousness and wrapping with pity. "Oh...Robb...oh, Robb, I'm sorry—

"No, don't. Don't apologize…" Robb smiled suddenly, shaking his head. "I was so young...truth would be, you were the first girl really that I had ever interacted...and you were so pretty. You are more than that, now...I was only a boy, the feeling passed after a few months. I met other girls...lay with other girls…" Robb watched the girls face curiously, searching for a flicker of distaste at the revelation that she would not be his first once they lay together as man and wife one day. But he did not find it. He wondered for a moment if that meant the same for her.

Was there someone else for the Dornish girl? Has she had someone else?

"It was a boyish crush. Nothing more. But seeing you five years later...the infatuation came back with a vengeance. I won't lie to you...I was happy when King Robert announced our marriage. I felt like I'd won all the gold and glory a man could greedily earn for a lifetime...until I seen your face...I guess what I'm trying to say is...my father...wishes he had a moment to bid my mother her word on the notion of their arranged marriage. Perhaps...she would've spoke differently if a choice was presented to her. My father...he might wonder some days on that matter, too...and I'm sure he did in the years to come as my mother had to watch Jon be raised alongside her own trueborn sons and daughters. Perhaps even, my father...would've married Jon's mother, had he not been obligated to mine. I mean, she must've meant a great deal to him, for my honorable father to forsake his vow to Catelyn Tully. I...just don't want that for us. I know in my heart that I am happy with the choice that has been laid for me...I just want to make sure that you are, too. And if you're not, say it here and true Eliesse Lannister. I promise you...I will not let them sentence you to this life if it is not a life you wish. I wouldn't allow that...I wouldn't want that. I don't want to marry you and know that every night I share your bed and crawl upon you, that you wish and fantasize I am someone else...that it is someone else kissing you, touching you...inside of you...I don't want to give you children that, even though you love them true...you wish they bared a different name...a different face...that...would kill me worse than you just telling me now...that I am not who you want".

Robb took Eliesse's hand, stroking the back of it lovingly. He smiled weakly at her, afraid for what she would say but prepared none the least. It was what was right. Robb couldn't live with himself if he forced Eliesse into a life she didn't want…

...or tore her away from a love she couldn't have.

Eliesse stared at Robb, her eyes quivering with sadness she tried her damndest to swallow. Why, she screamed in her mind. Why did you have to be such a good man, Robb? You don't deserve this. You deserve love. Real, love. Robb cared about her...genuinely. And though the boy was not madly swooning for her attention or beckoning for her love...he wanted it. Undividedly. And he would pay his price to earn it, if she would have him.

But Eliesse knew she couldn't give it to him—her love.

So the lioness gave the only thing she could offer in return of his kind, honest word. Truth.

To some degree...at least.

"Robb...I...wish to be honest with you and as transparent as you have been to me in this moment...it's not that I don't want you…" Eliesse began, her voice calm and firm...yet soft and offering a soothe she didn't readily give out to many, if any at all. Robb met her eyes curiously, intrigued and yearning for whatever would spill from her tasteful lips. But when the young woman furrowed her brow and exhaled softly...the young wolf knew. She needn't speak her woe.

"There is someone else" Robb said softly, his eyes lowering for a moment. He exhaled his own breath that had been frightened to come forth. But the realization had dawned at last, and the only thing left was to be proud and brave in its wake. Robb met her eyes once more, a look of understanding washing over his handsome features. "You needn't say more, my Lady...he...whoever he is...well, he must be something to have your heart so tenderly grasped. I will tell my parents to call off the betro—

"No!" Eliesse almost shouted, her heart sputtering in frantic wisps. He couldn't! They would know! And she and Jon would lose their chance at freedom...not before Lord Stark found the truth...she would have to comply until then.

Or run.

"No? Then what is it?" Robb asked curiously. Eliesse closed her eyes suddenly, unsure of how to meet this boy's gaze that searched her own for truth and affirmation of feeling.

"It is...yes. You are correct...there is someone...but...our love is not...it wouldn't work out" Eliesse whispered, her eyes opening to peer into Robb's. His sky blue glare was soft and attentive, as he gently took the girl's hand once more.

"Why?" Robb asked sincerely. He could see that this revelation pained the lioness. It hurt him indirectly to watch her writhe in heartache...especially when she was so proud to never show her true emotions. This man, whoever he was, meant a great deal to the woman.

"It's...complicated. We come from two very different worlds…"

"You left him back in the Capital?" Robb questioned, unsure if he was really in search of an answer or a lie to help aid his bruised ego.

"...not the capital...home. He...is where home is. And I cannot go home. So...he will remain there until I can...if ever. It has taken some time...but I've had to consider the possibility that...I might never go home...no matter how much I yearn to. It is unfair...but it is the truth. I feel like I'm chasing his memory...the idea of what we could have...without really pondering the conclusion of what is. And that is that I am here. Right now. Before you...sworn to you. It is not an easy feat to swallow...but it is...true." Eliesse muttered, her eyes unwilling to meet the young wolf through the thickness that had built at the stem of her throat.

A breeze whistled through the eerie forest. The lake beside the lion and wolf began to ripple in the winds wake...it churned towards the two who stood silent on the bank.

Robb watched Eliesse silently. So she loved someone…

...but there was no hope. She couldn't go home…

...yet, if she could, would she?

"Is...it done? Are you...done with him?" Robb whispered, his voice fearful of what it would elicit above the meek silence that had spared between the two. "I cannot hold your past against you...but I want to know what you look forward to in your future…"

"I don't know...no. I don't...think so...I don't know what our future holds...but I don't know if I'll ever be done with him. With what...we wished for. Perhaps I'm a fool" Eliesse scoffed, a cold chill biting at her wet cheek. She hadn't realized she had been crying. The lioness felt cold leather grasp her chin softly as it raised. Robb met her eyes once more in kindness.

"I wonder...if my mother felt this way. About my uncle...he was taken so ripe...perhaps, she felt...feels there is unfinished business...I am happy you were honest with me…" Robb gently released Eliesse's face from his leathered grasp. He gazed upon her sincerely, his eyes searching for a recognition he didn't believe he could find.

But he hoped. And like his mother and father's predicament, sometimes it was enough.

"...when my parents arranged my marriage to the Frey girl...and I was visibly upset...my mother came to speak with me in the Godswood. She said...I could learn to love. Like she learned to love father...some are arranged and loathe one another until the day they die...others are luckier...some meet and fall in love...some meet and find patience...I know I am not this man you love...but you are here, and you haven't cast me away yet...which...means to me...perhaps you have patience for me. It is all I can ask and be thankful for, Eliesse. I am patient. I will wait for you...and one day I hope when you speak of a fierce love...it is I you refer to" Robb smiled small. He leaned in slowly and pressed a tender kiss to the girl's forehead. Eliesse closed her eyes in sadness at the notion.

She knew she could never love Robb. And one day, he'd have to find out that sometimes patience, though virtuous and honorable...was just not enough.

—

Robb and Eliesse led their steeds to the great gates of Winterfell. "Will you join me for dinner tonight, my Lady? Nothing of romance...but Theon swears he will steal a wine flagon and I believe celebration amongst the young men and women should ensue. I have told Jon of the plan as well...we will see if mother will allow him at our table for the final feast before the Royal Guard departs. It would be nice to have merriment with him before he leaves for the Wall, too" Robb smiled sadly, stopping just outside the large gate.

Jon. The Wall...

"Robb...I want to ask you something. As a request...between friends…" Eliesse suddenly spoke, causing the lad to turn to her swiftly. He cocked a brow at the woman, a small smile at his lip for the girl's sudden haste.

"What is it?"

Eliesse sucked in a breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding hostage in her lungs. She was afraid to ask. Not because she thought it would upset Robb...but for what it meant if he said no. The lioness would not leave Jon's side. She couldn't. It was beyond the notion of love and despair for the bastard...it was something more. Something she couldn't quite put her finger on, but a feeling.

It was like her soul was attached to Jon it an ominous and strange way.

A chill would run swift upon her spine when she imagined being far from the bastard...she felt ill...and not in control of her body.

Like a strange magic had bound them together for survival...and if they parted…

...death.

"I know...we are betrothed. And with that honor, I am to stay in Winterfell until the wedding...but Robb...you know I have seen so little of this country...I...want to see the northern wall" Eliesse quickly spoke, her eyes firm and proud as she held Snow tight at her side. Robb's eyes widened at the Dornish girl's word. She what?

"Eliesse, there are no women on the Wall...of the Night's Watch…it is filled with the scum of Westeros...rapist, thieves...murderers...men banished" Robb warned, signaling a watch guard to open the gate. The old man sounded a horn as a scuffle ensued behind the great wooden doors. Robb's eyes hung low for a moment. What did that make Jon?

I suppose the answer was simple; an unlucky bastard.

"I know that, Robb. I would not go alone. I would take an escort. Only for a short time...my father...and Lord Arryn...has told me so much of this northern wonder. I believe it is my duty as a Stark to come to know my borders, and bid my respect and thanks to the men who man it...I want to show the north that even though I am a Lannister by blood...my allegiance now lies with the north. Winter is coming" Eliesse mused, her golden eyes daring and pleading. Robb scoffed in slight as the doors lurched open slowly. He glanced back to the lioness' glare that did not quiver.

She was serious. And quite persuasive.

It was true...if she was to be a Stark some day, she should know her borders and the men who guard them. Like Uncle Benjen and father said...the Stark's have manned the Wall for centuries. It is a right of passage by birth to pay your respect to the Wall.

And a right of passage through marriage.

Catelyn Tully had always spoke that no matter the years that passed during her time in the north, she always felt like an outsider. Perhaps it were because she never truly took the time to embrace what it meant to be a northerner...to share the blood of the First Men...and while Lord Stark's soldiers and bannermen respected the Stark matriarch...Robb knew there was an inclining of resentment. Southerners believed they were better than northern men...and northern men were much aware of the thought.

He didn't wish for Eliesse to fall victim to such opinions. Perhaps the north would rise for their Lady to come if they seen the fierce and strong warrior she truly was. Perhaps...a journey north was not a strange idea after all, on that premise.

"How long" Robb demanded. He turned to eye girl sternly, though Eliesse recognized the kind banter in his blue eyes. She smiled inwardly, though refused to let the emotion seep the surface of her olive face. She knew if she appeared too satisfied and relieved...Robb would begin to question why.

"A moon at best, Robb. That is all. I swear it" Eliesse spoke confidently, leading her horse through the opened gates. Robb followed closely behind her, agreeing with haste to the woman's request.

"I will speak to my mother...I'm sure once I explain why you wish to go North…" Robb replied, steadying his horse. Eliesse stopped abruptly, never turning to face Robb. She fell rigid at the mention of Catelyn Stark...Jon had told her of her threats against the bastard if he ventured too near the lioness. If anyone were to suspect the romance between the bastard and Dornish girl...it would be her. She mustn't know of the woman's goodwill trip.

"Robb, there is no need to bother your mother of such trivial matters. I will be gone not so long...I'm sure she would rather fill her mind with your father and the girls, and Bran...she is a woman in pain. She is losing half her family at once. I'm sure she wouldn't even notice my absence through her aching heart…" Eliesse's clever tongue and wit beckoned. She turned curtly to Robb who pondered her words closely. Bless the lad...he would make a good husband true, one day...always listening to the woman, he was.

"And if she asks…"

"Just tell her I wanted to see the wall. I took an appropriate Guard for escort...and I'll be back before she notices" Eliesse smiled sweetly, her knuckles turning a ghastly white behind her back as she gripped her steed's reigns roughly. Just comply...she thought bitterly to herself.

"I suppose, my Lady. I wish I could join you...but with father gone…" Robb began, picking his step up once more towards the busy courtyard. Eliesse waved the boy off, her mind a flurry of anxiousness and wonder. She wished Robb would stop speaking so much of the matter...she was sure if he kept on about the circumstance, he would find a way to intrude on her tour.

"It is fine. I understand. Do not miss me too much, Stark" she smirked, yanking Snow to the stables. Robb chuckled and followed the girl closely.

"I will do my best".

"Robb Stark! Lady Eliesse!" A voice boomed from behind the basking pair as they headed the stables.

The King.

Eliesse slanted her eyes in secret at the fat oaf. King Robert trotted to the boy and girl on his steed, basked in green and gold armor and an entourage of Kingsguard men and Stark soldiers…

...And Lord Stark himself.

The poor horse...it'll collapse under your fat arse before you venture beyond the lip of Winterfell's lands. "Your Grace," Eliesse smiled sweetly as she bowed her head. "Another hunt to close out your Royal trip?" Eliesse questioned, though she knew the answer. Of course another hunt for boar...and at dinner tonight, another hunt for the ripest northern cunt he can find.

"Aye, girl...the prey run wild in the north…nothing like the game in the south. One final hunt for I and my men...and my trusted Hand…" Robert smirked grotesquely at Lord Stark who kept his stare honest and kind.

His eye flickered to the Dornish girl who held his leer for a brisk moment before dropping it quietly. "Of course. I wish you good fortune in your hunt…" Eliesse whispered quietly, her knuckles becoming frosty once more at the intensity to which she gripped Snow's reigns behind her back.

"Many thanks, Lady Stark…" The king boomed with laughter once more, signaling a puppet-like chorus from the fools surrounding him.

All but Lord Stark bellowed their amusement.

"Robb! You are to become Lord of Winterfell, boy...come join us on this hunt. I wish to bid your ear advice on how to keep your Lady happy and not squawking all day long…" King Robert called down from his trembling horse to the young wolf who stood quietly at Eliesse's side.

Robb smiled politely, his eyes flickering to Eliesse who remained quiet and stoic. He wondered if she hated King Robert.

It seemed that way by how the girl appeared so rigid in his presence.

"An honor, Your Grace" Robb smiled, pulling his horse back around once more. He glanced to a Eliesse who nodded curtly, bidding her approval. Robb smiled small, leaning in to kiss the top of her golden head. "Try not to get into too much trouble, Lannister". He winked playfully at the lioness, bidding his jest.

He did not linger, though.

Eliesse watched quietly as Robb pulled himself atop his horse once more and followed the thundering entourage back outside Winterfell's great gates. When the Dornish girl was sure they had dissipated and she were no longer in view, she scurried onward to the stables, never sparing a fleeting glance back over her shoulder.

She lead Snow sleuthly into a stall, securing her reigns upon an old rusted spike. She stared into the fine horse's large, black eyes. "Shh...be still, girl" she muttered, brushing her golden mane from her eyes. "I will fetch you some fruit from the kitchen…" she whispered for the horse's ears only. Without another word, she exited the stall quietly, sealing the door behind her.

She turned on her heel swiftly, her mind a bustle of a boy she had accidentally left dwindling in the wind.

Quickly, she marched as fast as the stifling, blue velvet dress would allow her to, her mind set on the Godswood and the bastard boy who would surely be waiting.

A hand grabbed her arm and pulled her into a passing stall.

Eliesse yelped, grabbing her aggressors arm as swift and rough as they'd done her. The person pushed Eliesse firmly against the wooden wall of the stall, their hand tight against the girl's plump lips. She raised her eyes in fright at the person who held her captive in such haste.

She relaxed.

Jon.

Eliesse grabbed the boy's hand and thrust it from her lips where they held the woman's word and breath at bay. "Are you mad?" Eliesse whispered harshly, her eyes sharp on the bastard before her.

Jon met her stare, his own curious and stern. "Not mad...I was confused when you didn't meet me in the Godswood like I had asked…" Jon muttered, his stormy grey eyes smoldering the lioness' fiery gold ones. "I thought maybe you were upset with me...perhaps I was too rough last night…" he spoke quietly, his eyes wandering passionately over the woman and glistening of worry.

Eliesse frowned, raising her hand to stroke Jon's face that was irresistibly adorned in dark stubble. Stubble that somehow made him more attractive and less of a boy. No, Jon was all man. He'd proven it so, too. "Of course not. I was with Robb...he asked me to ride outside the gates with him" Eliesse replied, her eyes searching Jon's for a flicker of sadness. But she did not find it.

Though, something else lingered there.

A moment passed silently between the two. Eliesse felt her stomach churn in discomfort at the mention of the bastard's brother. She thought for a moment that he might be jealous or upset that she had left him waiting while she galavanted with the boy. "Jon…" she whispered, sensing a shift in his mood. She raised her hand once more to touch his face adoringly…but he snatched it before it grazed his chiseled jaw.

He thrust her hand above her head, against the cold stall wall.

"Jon, what is the prob—

"You smell like him" Jon muttered low, his eyes dripping of the familiar darkness that made Eliesss's heart spike in fear and want. He took a daring step forward to the girl, closing the existing minuscule gap between them. It was true, the lioness did reek of the young wolf. And Jon could smell it. Smell him. His woman...his mate, smelt of another wolf. And he didn't like it one bit.

Eliesse furrowed her brow at the boy, trying to retract her hand from the firm grip Jon held it from. "I'm wearing his cloak" Eliesse whispered. Jon stepped back slightly to look the furs up and down, his head tilt mockingly to the side. He peered back into Eliesse's eyes, his own holding slight disdain and annoyance. Eliesse held his gaze firm, she would not waiver under such a stare from the bastard. She smirked, becoming much aware of what Jon was hinting at with his eyes. "What is it, boy? It is warm" the lioness taunted with a mischievous look in her eye.

Jon stood straight at her words, his eyes dark and brewing a storm the woman could not navigate...nor should've. "Is it, now" Jon remarked, his voice low and full of intent.

He lifted a hand to touch the fine wolf pelt, his hand running about the fastenings of the fine cloak.

He yanked it from her body in a single swift motion.

Eliesse yelped quietly, her eyes wide with accusation. "Jon, what in the Gods—

Jon grabbed the lioness by her waist and thrust her against the stall door. "Do you say these things to get a rise from me, girl?" He spoke low once more, stepping between Eliesse's suddenly trembling legs. Eliesse met Jon's eyes in confusion and shock. She wondered for a moment if Jon were actually upset with her. She was only teasing the boy...

Abruptly, Jon captured her lips in a fevered, rough kiss. Eliesse gasped in shock of the urgency Jon had displayed. She whimpered into the kiss, one hand rising to grab Jon and pull him closer, the other attempting to cast him away like he'd burned her. It was truly a maddening feel.

"Jon, what are you doing?" Eliesse suddenly whispered, her breath long gone, leaving the woman panting. "Are you mad? We are in the stable...someone could…" Jon silenced the girl once more by laying a lustful kiss under her ear. Her sweet spot. His hand rose to grasp her roughly around the waist as he pressed his full weight into the woman. Eliesse closed her eyes involuntarily at the sensation of Jon's lips at her flesh. On and on he trailed up and down the woman's neck and throat, biting and sucking gently at the flushed flesh. She grasped Jon's shoulders in an effort to push him away, but her body betrayed her and she pulled him in closer instead. "Jon...stop…" she moaned weakly, not quite believing her own protest of the bastard.

"No" he muttered simply against her neck. He ran his hands rough and slow up the woman's waist to her sides, squeezing gently and then harder in the space just under her breast. He stopped suddenly, lifting his head in slight to meet the girl's eyes that were wild with lust and fear. "I don't like this dress...I can't feel you" He spoke in the girl's ear. Without a word spared, he thrust the fabric of Eliesse's bodice open, exposing the swells of her round breast. Eliesse had little to no time to protest or question Jon before his mouth found soft, tender buds. He kissed and nipped, sucked and bit at Eliesse's breast, causing the woman to squirm against him in torturous pleasure.

Lower and lower the bastard dragged his lips against Eliesse's flushed skin, pulling undone the velvet dress along the way as he lay his siege to her olive flesh. Eliesse began to moan quietly, her breath escaping in fevered wisps from her slightly parted lips. She wanted to tell him to stop, that this was mad, that he was being ridiculous, and someone would surely find them.

But she couldn't find her voice, or the will to stop him.

He gently kissed her stomach, glancing up at the woman who was panting uncontrollably at his torture. Her hand was tangled in Jon's dark hair, the other holding the stall wall dearly as though her legs would give out at any moment.

Jon found himself at the woman's thigh as he continued to kiss and bite over her trembling flesh. He stopped at the crux of her pelvis, glancing up at the woman. "Theon told me once...that all the Dornish girl's love to be kissed...here" he nodded toward the lioness' maidenhood, meeting her eyes once more to relish the woman's reaction. "I want to know...if it's true".

Eliesse's eyes flashed hot with shock as she grabbed Jon's hair to stop him. "Jon, you can't do...oh…" but it was too late, the bastard was intent and would deliver. He found the lioness with a daring swipe of his tongue and moist mouth. Eliesse gasped, her legs nearly collapsing at the sensation Jon drew forth. She writhed against the wall as she fought the adverse instinct to push the boy away and then pull him in closer and deeper. Her hands trembled as they took refuge in his hair, squeezing him harder against her, as she gave in to the latter.

In the quiet stall, Eliesse panted, calling the bastard's name repeatedly. Her breath left her body in unrhythmic patterns as Jon pleasured her in ways she had never been before.

She could scarcely recall her cousins speaking of this sort of thing. Of the ecstasy it elicited for a woman...how they would laugh and jest about the only correct place to kiss a woman is down there...it was the Dornish way. She would always listen to the stories of her older cousins and Sunspear handmaidens...she always wondered what the big deal was...why would any man want to kiss a woman there and why would any woman allow it.

Now, she knew.

It took only a short time for Jon to find Eliesse with his mouth before the girl felt her body give way and explode in euphoria. Jon was almost disappointed at how quickly she had become undone. He didn't want to stop. He had always wondered and yearned to know what the lioness tasted of...and now that he knew she was as sweet as she looked...he didn't want to stop. He imagined for a moment that he could devour the girl whole by just the sweetness she excreted. He felt himself become aroused at her trembling, her desperate moans beckoning his own release.

And to think he hadn't even entered her yet.

She moaned the boy's name aloud by accident, causing Jon to quickly raise his hand against her lips and silence her cries of pleasure to anyone who would be passing by. He held her there for a moment, until her writhing ceased and her cries subsided to heavy breaths. When he was sure she would be still, he rose from between her legs and slowly lowered his hand from her trembling lips. She stared at Jon in bewilderment, her eyes heavy in lust and shock for the bastard boy. He placed his finger at his lip, beckoning the girl to be quiet. She met his eyes, nodding slowly as she tried to re-establish her breath.

He slowly began to draw the woman's dress back upon her waist and her shoulders as he fixed the ruffled material. Eliesse watched him in adoration. How he could bring her to her knees with only the simplest of touches and gestures.

Well, perhaps not simple.

He fastened the last of her strings on her bodice and met her eyes. He took the woman by the nape of her neck gently and pulled her in for a tender, sweet kiss. Eliesse obliged, her breath still swept and quivering. When they pulled apart finally, Jon met her eyes in dark satisfaction. "I promise I'll be better when I do that again" he whispered gently, brushing her lips slowly. Eliesse pulled away to stare bewildered upon the boy.

"There's better than that?" Eliesse scoffed, fixing her dress about its sleeves.

"I will show you...I'm not finished with you, yet...but with those desperate little noises you were making...it's best we move from here" Jon smirked, tucking a gold curl behind the woman's ear that had run free during his onslaught. Eliesse blushed slightly, her eyes rolling in irritation of the boy's jest. He captured her face between his fingers, forcing her to meet his eye. "Go on and change into one of your pretty Dorne dresses...this...is not you. And I want you. Meet me in the Godswood" Jon spoke, releasing the woman's face. He stepped back to gaze upon his golden beauty. He smirked playfully at Eliesse, watching an unrecognizable shift in her eye.

She stared at Jon, her lips pursed in annoyance and brow cocked in arrogance at how he demanded her around so.

But she would not protest.

Swiftly, she turned to leave to the stall door. "I'll be there in fifteen minutes" she spoke quick and proud, unwilling to meet Jon's obvious satisfied expression. She turned to open the door, when she felt Jon grab her arm once more. He twisted her around to meet his stormy grey stare once more.

"Don't keep me waiting again" He muttered darkly, his eyes dancing with a wildness the woman could scarcely tame. Her heart shuttered in deliciousness of Jon's dominant side when it came to her…

...she wouldn't disappoint him.

Eliesse thrust her arm back from his grip, meeting his eye with the same mischief he bore in his own. Without a word, she disappeared through the rickety stall door and out of the stable. Jon smiled after her, his heart a fury of adoration and want. He waited a moment, allowing for anyone who could be lurking outside the stable to forget the woman's passage and allow him to slip out equally unnoticed.

He took a breath and stepped out, content to witness that the stable was quiet and empty of folk and steeds.

He stalked quickly for the stable door and thrust it open.

He halted—someone was standing before him, curious and swishing a chalice of wine about their little hand.

"Jon Snow...Lord Stark's bastard...how are the horses today?" Tyrion Lannister spoke curtly, eyeing the boy from under his protruding brow. He stepped closer to the bastard, who's blood had suddenly run cold. "You were in there for quite sometime...I assume the horse's must not be well?" Tyrion walked slowly around Jon to peer into the old stable that bared no livestock…

...except Snow.

"Oh...just Snow…Pretty little thing, isn't she? My father got it from a merchant in Kings Landing during the summer my daughter journeyed from Dorne. A little "welcome home" gift. Funny, you don't have any names...yet you share one with my daughter's horse. More peculiar...her horse didn't have a name for the longest while...that is...until she went north for the first time with Lord Arryn. Suddenly, she came home and the horse had a name! How wonderful! I always thought she was inspired by the north...perhaps compared Snow's slick, white coat to what besieged the grounds in the wasteland...perhaps…" Lord Tyrion cocked his large head at Jon Snow who stood silent and uneasy at the Lord's witty words.

"She did love the Snow" Jon finally spoke, finding his voice that was barely above a whisper. Tyrion raised a brow at the bastard boy, sipping his wine curtly.

"Yes...it would seem she did love the Snow. Funny, isn't it?" Tyrion questioned, walking into the stable and gazing curiously about the old structure. "Speaking of my daughter…did you see her in here, Jon Snow? I was looking for her and asked a few squires if they'd seen my Dornish beauty. They said they seen her escorting her horse back to Winterfell's stables...so...I came seeking her. I was hoping she'd bid her father a nice lunch in the Royal Wheelhouse...I wanted to speak to her of her marriage to your brother. Oh, silly me. Did you hear? She is to wed your brother, Robb. Ned Stark's trueborn son" Tyrion questioned, eyeing Jon with a mocking glint. Jon shifted uncomfortably from where he stood, his eyes lowering to the ground before him. Hearing of his love's betrothal to his brother made him uncomfortable and he could do scarcely all to hide it. Tyrion noted his reaction from behind his chalice, eyeing the boy curiously.

Ah, there was the curious look again, in the bastard's eye. Such a pained look.

"I am aware, my Lord. I suppose congratulations are in order" Jon replied mechanically, meeting the dwarf's pondering look once more.

"Of course...I suppose that was what you were doing in there...with her. My daughter. You were congratulating her on her nuptials to come" Tyrion spoke. "I mean, it was you in there with her, was it not, bastard?" He stood straight as he called on Jon, one hand tiredly swishing about his wine, the other neatly tucked behind his back. He raised his brow at Jon, beckoning his voice to come forth.

Jon stood silently, his hands began to twitch in unease at his side. He knew his word would have to be wise. "I…" He began slowly, unsure of what to say to the proud dwarf. Tyrion raised his hand slowly, bidding the bastard to be silent.

"Of course it was you. When I came looking for my sweet, Ellie...I thought I heard her. I could've been wrong...but my...the voice that was calling the name Jon...over and over...I was certain it must belong to my daughter. And then when I seen her leave after a remarkably short time after, I knew. You are talented it would seem, boy…it takes even a professional man like myself some time to please a woman. And here you are...a seeming professional yourself. Where have you bid your practice from, bastard? Or should I ask from whom?" Tyrion mocked once more. Though the dwarf's tone was raised in amusement, there was no hint of joy on his disgruntled face. He had stumbled upon his daughter being dishonored in a bloody shack.

By a bastard.

Jon felt his mouth run dry and his heart sputter in fear. He'd been caught. No...

...they'd been caught. And worse, by the lioness' father.

"Do speak, boy. Perhaps you have advice for an old professional as myself" Tyrion raised his chalice in jest at the bastard, though the compliment didn't quite resonate. Jon opened his mouth to speak, but closed it once more for fear he'd dig himself and Eliesse into farther graves. "Actually, don't. I suppose there isn't much to say to the father of the girl you'd been fucking so brazenly in the stable. Perhaps word would better ensue to your father...or perhaps Lord Stark's wife...she seems to be quite the fan of yours. No...maybe your brother; it is his wife you were dishonoring, wasn't it?" Tyrion cocked his large head once more at the bastard, his fingers rapping amusingly at the gold chalice that was nearly dry. Though the gesture seemed light and jossing-like, it was not. Tyrion Lannister, the jokester of Casterly Rock was angry.

Jon shot his eyes low upon the dwarf as they filled with anger of his own. "She is not Robb's wife"

"So you don't deny it...that you were dishonoring her" Tyrion mused, sipping the last of his wine that had seemed to go down more bitter than the rest. He glared up at the bastard who only closed his eyes at recognition of his childish stumble.

"I was not...we...I...she was talking to me about…" Jon stammered, his voice faltering once more. He couldn't think of anything to say that might grant the boy and his Lady a pass at being in close quarters alone. He knew it was indecent. One being he was alone with a betrothed high lady, and two being he was a bastard.

"Ah, of course you were. Word of advice bastard...if you'll allow me to bid you some once more...a professional man who means to take someone's wife...would scarcely do so in the light of day. I hope you remember that...more so, I hope you remember who's wife you are taking...and more so, who's daughter. I look forward to dining with my Ellie for dinner and learning of all the things you spoke of in this quiet stable. I would send for her now to lunch...but it seems you've filled that appetite already. Good day, bastard...we must stop meeting under such peculiar circumstance" without a final silver word spared from the clever imp, he turned brisk on his short leg and walked firmly back to the courtyard from which he straggled, one hand clasped around his empty chalice, the other proudly around his back.

—

"My father?" Eliesse nearly yelled above the quiet fire in Jon's chamber. She thrust herself from the bed and stared accusingly at Jon. "You tell me this now? After you've had your fill, Snow?" She slant her eyes at the bastard boy who got up immediately after seeing the distress on the woman's beautiful face.

"I told you in the Godswood that I had to tell you something very important. That someone saw us and the only thing you were concerned about was me telling you after we'd had our fun. You even dragged me back to my chambers because you realized privacy might've been of importance…" Jon spoke softly, standing before the fuming Dornish girl. Eliesse rolled her eyes at Jon's martyrism. He knew what she meant. He should've spoken up immediately if it was a person of such importance. Seven hells, the woman thought Jon might've been referring to a wench or squire...not her father. Still, the fact didn't matter of what status the watcher possessed…

...it only mattered that they had seen.

"You should've started your sentence with that first…" Eliesse seethed, turning to retrieve her dress that has been discarded across the room. "Do you understand the trouble I am about to endure?" She threw over her shoulder as she stumbled about to fit her leg through the slinky Dornish silk.

"Eliesse, come here…" Jon muttered, walking slowly to the girl. She faced away from him angrily as she tugged and pulled at the stupid dress to fit over her slick and sweaty body. "You...will be in trouble...no doubt. But I promise I will take the brunt of it. I...will tell them I forced myself on you" Jon whispered, helping the girl fasten the back of the dress.

Eliesse turned abruptly to meet the bastard boy's eye. "You will do no such thing! You know they'll punish you severely...God's...as irritated as I am with you for your lack of urgency in the matter...I do not resent you enough to sentence you to the Wall early...or death, seeing as I'm sure Catelyn Stark would call for your head if you admitted to raping her son's betrothed" Eliesse pulled away from Jon's hand just as he'd fastened the last string. "I must go" she spoke quickly, ruffling her tousled and messy hair.

"Eliesse, just wait a second. Do you really think your father would go to Lord Stark...or even the King on such a matter?" Jon muttered, grabbing the Dornish girl's hand. He raised it to his mouth where he lay a reassuring kiss upon it. Eliesse sighed deeply, melting at the gesture. She cursed Jon Snow silently for making her so soft.

"I...I don't know, Jon. Hells...for all I know, he could've been in on this whole ordeal. On my grooming in the Capital...perhaps he even sat in on the discussions surrounding my marriage to Robb...I just...don't know. And I won't chance your life. I need to speak to him...quickly. Before he speaks to anyone else. Even if he doesn't sell me out to Lord Stark and the King...because I'm his daughter...you are nothing to him. He wouldn't think twice"

"And that is my cross to bear. I will face the punishment for my crime, honorably" Jon spoke quickly, grabbing the girl in at her waist. He pressed a reassuring kiss to her fevered forehead. But Eliesse was not satisfied at his word. She pulled away from him, anger dripping through her angelic features and tarnishing its beauty.

"I do not accept that" she spat, turning once more. Jon grabbed her hands gently, pulling her back to him. He smiled weakly, brushing the golden curls from her bitter eyes.

"Eliesse...I don't believe your father intends to go to anyone but you on the matter. When he spoke to me...it was more warning than threatening. It was like...he was telling me that if I continued this...if we continued this...we should be careful. Perhaps, I've lost my mind then" Jon mumbled, walking to retrieve his own garments. He pulled his tunic over his head and began to pull up his trousers. "I don't think your father is in on this plot of King Robert and your grandfather, either. Think about it, Eliesse. They are ashamed of him...he is an outcast...and he told me outside the feasting hall your first night here...that all dwarfs are bastards in their father's eyes. I don't believe Tywin would share such a calculated plan with his imp son" Jon returned to the girl who stood silent and pondering of the bastard's words.

"But he knows" Eliesse whispered in despair. "And that is worrisome enough, for me. For us. I don't believe my father would doom me...but you...that is why I need to speak to him. Soon." Eliesse turned away from Jon's stormy glare that basked her in pity and sadness. She wished he wouldn't gaze upon her in such a way…

"Not like this. You are...upset. If you walk into his chambers this distraught, he will believe there is more going on than just fevered, young desire. It is best to allow him to believe that this was a one time exchange. He was young once...I hear he still is, to that effect. Relax. Come...you told me when you get like this...upset, you enjoy...changing your skin. Do it. Show me...relieve yourself while you know I will watch over you and keep you safe" Jon whispered. "Would you like me to call Ghost?" He gestured the woman into his arms, to which she obliged tiredly.

"I...want to fly" her voice was barely audible, but Jon could taste the wonder it held. His heart began to sputter at the notion she spoke. He had never seen her do it before...Hell, apart of him thought she might've truly hit her head too hard that night and had imagined the whole experience.

But the other half believed. He knew. How else could the lioness know of such intimate details regarding his conversation with Ghost?

Eliesse walked to Jon's bed, kicking her shoes off. She glanced shyly to the boy, her fingers intertwining and fumbling in a unfamiliar nervousness. "I've never done this for anyone before...do you swear you won't be afraid?" The lioness questioned, her eyes firm and searching of the bastard. He nodded slowly, his mind was unsure but his eyes were alive and agreeing of the woman. Anything to please her. "Sit on the bed...let me lay between your legs...I will...lose control of my body...my eyes will stay awake... Don't be afraid...I am fine…"

Jon sucked in a nervous breath as his heart never ceased its anxious fury. Still, the bastard walked to his bed and sat upon it. Slowly, he drew his back against the headboard and opened his arms to the Dornish girl. "I'm ready" he spoke softly, encouraging the woman forward.

Eliesse hesitated, but took a step nonetheless. She climbed slowly into the bed and crawled sleuthly to Jon who awaited her with open arms. She found them and sat between his legs, turning her body so her back was against his warm and hard chest. She exhaled a breath that lay stiff in her lung, trying to find her relaxed state. Jon sensed her rigidness and unease. He lifted a hand to wrap securely around her waist, while the other stroked her hair softly. "Whenever you're ready…" he whispered at her ear.

Eliesse inhaled deeply, closing her eyes. She listened to the soft crackle of the fire within Jon's chambers. It hummed quietly to her, placing rhythm at her suddenly wild mind.

The window was open and the Dornish woman could scarcely recognize the shrill of the northern wind that rushed impatiently in and out of the bastard's chamber.

She inhaled the breeze as it dawned on her senses. She could vaguely interpret the smell of fresh bread and pine...how torturous for the bastard boy who must've smelt the feasts prepared regularly at Winterfell's castle.

A strange squawk captured the lioness' senses.

Eliesse inhaled deeper, straining her strange mind to chase the patter and swoosh of wings outside the bastard's tower. She listened patiently, the sound of wings beating defiantly at the cold, northern wind. It beckoned the girl forward as she could almost taste the creature who created such a stir.

The sound ceased for a moment, the small chamber falling silent once more, accompanied only by the familiar crackling of firewood. Suddenly, a large black crow perched still and abrupt on the bastard's window. Jon flinched at the bird's arrival, thrown aback at the ominity of it being there so conveniently. He stared curiously as it ruffled its feathers and pecked greedily at his windowsill in search of corn or bread. He almost lost himself in his observations, until he felt the Dornish girl shift quietly. He gazed downward at Eliesse in his arms, forgetting for a moment she still rested there. He watched the timid rise and fall of her bodice, wondering what she was thinking and if she were even present any longer within her body.

Suddenly, the woman's eyes opened swift. But they were not her eyes. Jon felt Eliesse's body go limp as he held her tighter to make up for her loss of control. He stared wide eyed down at the woman whose eyes were ghostly white and unresponsive. "Eliesse…" Jon muttered, attempting to stable his sudden trembling arm. What was this magic?

He stroked the woman's arm softly, calling to her once more. That's when he noticed…

...the crow's pecking at his window had ceased.

Jon glanced up slowly to the bird who seemed to be too much aware of his presence within the chamber. His eyes flickered downward to his sleeping beauty and then up once more to the crow who had turned completely to him and stood perched with silence. Jon's breath caught in his throat as he tried to find a word to bid forth. "...E...Eliesse…" he stumbled, sitting up with mild shock.

The bird burst away from the window in a mighty flap of dark wings, causing Jon to flinch once more. His chest heaved in wonder and disbelief as he watched the crow soar higher and higher into the crisp, northern sky.

And there, the Dornish girl soared, indeed.

Eliesse beat her wings proudly, relishing the air that lapped greedily beneath them. She pushed herself higher into the blue skies, closing her eyes only for a mere moment to appreciate the freedom this skin bore.

She soared defiantly, turning about and gliding low to the plains before her. She was well beyond Winterfell's castle...well beyond the body she left behind with a bastard boy to loom over it.

She rushed through green brush and pine, fields and lillies...she swooped low, her belly kissing the surface of the strange greenish lake Robb had brought her to earlier...on and on she flew, relishing in the feeling of her spirit eclipsing with the northern scape.

For a moment, the Dornish girl felt free. She rejoiced in the artificial distance she'd created between herself and Winterfell castle...for it held resentment and anger, pain and despair...yet, somewhere along those mentions, it held happiness.

For a quivering second, Eliesse imagined flying for Dorne and never returning. She imagined sweeping over the northern skies, basking in the southern heat and reaching a land she craved so deeply.

But Jon...Jon was her hold in these cold lands. He was the warm touch in her still night and the silver lining within her disparity. All Eliesse wanted to do was leave these lands with Jon…she wished they could run away to Essos before it was too late.

Somewhere deep in the lioness' heart, she didn't believe Ned Stark could liberate her...the Lannisters were crude...relentless in obtaining what they wanted. Tywin would not let the young woman go so freely between his claws. Even if Ned could somehow bring him before a trial, to what avail would it do? Tywin Lannister had the Crown in his pocket...and worse, the loyalty of most of the Seven Kingdoms. And while the woman was hopeful of Lord Stark's mission...she knew Jon and her's only hope was the flee before the looming gears of war had begun to churn.

Perhaps she could convince Jon to not take the Black...if he took it, and swore his life to the Night's Watch...he'd be bound by honor...forever. Any motion to flee the country would result in not only she, but Jon too obtaining a title of fugitive...and worse…

...deserter.

Eliesse turned her large wing back towards the castle. She couldn't waste anymore time...she had to find her father and bid his forgiveness. No matter how much the woman would loathe to bow and beg for generosity before anyone, she didn't enjoy the idea of doing it before her father, more. But she needed his silence. If he were to turn Jon in, it would thwart her entire ploy to get them both safely from Winterfell and away from Lady Stark and the King's looming demands.

Winterfell's grand castle came into view as the girl soared and circled its grandest tower. A large, riddle with vine and rot structure that bore ominous gargoyles along its perches. Eliesse flew stealthy past it, leading onward for Jon's tower that resided not too far from it.

A scurrying figure caught the woman's keen bird's eye.

Eliesse circled the tower once more, curious of the dark shadow she witnessed cross it. She eyed many crows about the tower...some perched on old, rotted gargoyles, others on the ground at the foot of the old tower.

Eliesse turned the last edge of the tower, coming to a halt on a crumbled gargoyle head. Her eyes scanned the ledge of the tower, in search of the figure that had caught her eye from high in the sky. She gasped suddenly, her heart suddenly alive and rigorous from within the crows chest she bore.

Bran.

Eliesse watched frighteningly as Bran struggled to pull himself to a broken window upon the tower. His face was screwed in concentration as he fingered the dusty edge of the wall, searching for a grip he could scarcely find. Eliesse's eyes widened in fear at the sight. Bran! Seven Hells, I should return to my body and come to him at once! He's so high...what if he slips...what if he—

Eliesse's internal fury was cut short by Bran swinging his leg on top of the slim ledge. Her heart nearly exploded when his foot missed the first attempt at leverage, but he regained his balance short after. You silly boy...I'll be sure to tell your brother of the dangerous activities you are doing out here so far…

Eliesse watched as Bran lay still, his hand grasping the wall for support as his eyes bore dead ahead into the window he leered at. Eliesse watched curiously, wondering what had the boy so fixated. Slowly, she flew from her perch to the gargoyle that lay beside him.

Bran turned quietly to Eliesse, observing her still form for a moment. His eyes were wide with wonder as looked frightened at the lioness' arrival. Slowly, he drew a trembling finger to his mouth, bidding the girl to be silent. Eliesse stood still, confused at what ailed the poor child. Bran turned quietly back to the window he peered from, his eyes aware of something that lay before him. Eliesse followed his eye curiously, hoping to catch a glimpse of what intrigued the boy enough to risk his life on a withered windowsill.

Eliesse gasped, all blood and life draining from her feathered frame.

It was her uncle Jaime...he was naked, and taking a woman roughly from behind…

...that woman...yellow hair fell in tendrils around her face as she was bent awkwardly over. She panted and groaned in delight, meeting Jaime's aggressive thrust. His own pleasure was coming in rhythmic grunts and quiet whispers she could scarcely make out from her perch beside the small wolf boy. The woman tossed her head up in delight, her face twisted with lust and satisfaction…

Seven Hells...it couldn't be…

...but it was...

...the Queen.

Cersei Lannister opened her eyes abruptly hearing the squeak of a bird. Eliesse's shock had bubbled at her throat and spilled before she could contain her fright and surprise. "Stop! Stop! He seen us!" Cersei shrieked, her eyes wide and full of horror.

Jaime...was...he was…

"He did" Jaime said nonchalantly. He turned to Cersei exchanging a look that was hidden from Bran and the lioness. Eliesse felt her heart exploding in a fiery rage and shock that nearly set the girl's entire body ablaze. She watched as Jaime stalked towards Bran who looked visibly confused and shaken from what he'd stumbled upon.

"Take my hand. Before you fall" he spoke calmly, extending a bare arm to Bran. Eliesse gaze shifted hastily between the pair as she watched Bran's hand tremble in uncertainty. Nonetheless, he grasped the woman's uncle's arm.

"What are you doing?" Cersei shrilled once more, her eyes watering in a fright Eliesse could only attest to her imagining what the King would do once he finds out…

...of her incestuous relationship with her brother.

Jaime disregarded his sister's frantic woes. "How old are you?" He asked curiously, his face soft for the frightened boy.

"Ten" Bran replied softly, releasing the Lannister's arm from where he held it firm. Jaime tilted his head to the side, gazing deeply into Bran's quivering eyes. He inhaled sharply, his eyes pondering the boy in silence. Quietly, he shut them, as though he were deliberating something beyond the moment he stood at. He released his breath he held within his proud chest, glancing once more into the boy's eyes.

"The things I do for love" He spoke indifferently.

He shoved Bran out of the window.

Eliesse watched horrifyingly as Bran screamed while flailing to the courtyard below. She too, screamed, with every tendron in her body. The sound came shrill and deafening, as her crow body shrieked unnaturally at the sight of Bran's falling figure. Eliesse watched as he fell down, down, down...crack.

The sound of Bran's body hitting the still courtyard elicited a stomach wrenching crunch that deafened the girl from where she perched. She closed her eyes, the internal scream never ceasing as she felt her body implode from within. The familiar heat that grasped and yanked her soul from her body had manifested into a rage as she felt her mind rip from the crow it bore and re-enter her human form.

Eliesse jumped from Jon's arms, her body instantly drenched in a sweat the bastard couldn't comprehend. She clutched her chest in utter despair as the only audible thing to erupt from her lips was a chilling scream that scattered the crows from outside the bastard's window.

"Bran!"