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Chapter Text

This was the first time she travelled to the south. A Tourney at Lannisport had been held to celebrate the iron borns’ defeat. Alva had been a child, just shy of her sixth name day. Her father was returning from the war, were her mother’s family had been on the opposite side, and she had travelled with her and her two brothers down to see the knights fight.

Southrons were strange to her. The whole place was too hot. People looked at them puzzled, tho it took her a few years to figure the reason. Alva just wanted for it to finish…. until she saw the most handsome man she had ever seen before.

Her hair was blonde, sure. But the knight’s hair was golden, as if he had stolen it from the sun itself. The armor he wore wasn’t close to the same tone of gold as his beautiful hair, tho the lion on it made him look majestic…he wore a white cape, and carried a red shield, with another lion painted unto it, and rode a huge white stallion covered a in red and gold cloak. The knight then put his helmet, shaped like a lion’s head.

At that age, Alva hadn’t known what a Kingsguard was like, “Mother, may I marry him? “She asked, while not taking her eyes away from the knight.

Her mother chuckled, tho it seemed she wasn’t too happy “that’s Ser Jaime Lannister, dear. He is a Kingsguard, they bow to their southern gods to never marry and serve their king. “

That nearly made Alva cry. She did have tears in her eyes, but she didn’t want to have to go elsewhere and not see Ser Jaime. She saw him joust and beat many opponents, until the last one

Lord Mormont was a northern, too, but had just been knighted. He won against her beloved golden knight after breaking nice lances. The girl pouted, that wasn’t fair! A Southron girl had given the bear knight some robes that probably had a spell!

Wait, maybe she could do the same. Love was a powerful spell. But Ser Jaime had left with his horse…

So, Alva had to sneak away to find her golden knight. Her mother and the servants were busy trying to calm her fuzzy little brother, and her older brother was distracted watching some maids from a house she didn’t know. Her father was probably speaking with lord Eddard…

The perfect time! No one noticed when she walked away, luckily. But it was hard to find her way through the unknown place. There were many smallfolk gathered for the journey, and it took her a while before reaching the golden knight, who she had seen ride on his horse. Luckily, no guards were around to stop her from entering the stable.

She heard some giggles and saw her golden knight kissing a blonde servant, tho luckily neither spotted her. Alva felt so jealous, who was that dumb girl who wanted to steal her knight? She waited until the slut (her parents wouldn’t want to realize she knew the word) left before going in.

“H-hello….” She spoke shyly. Ser Jaime looked around but didn’t see anyone, until he looked down.

Alva blushed harder than any other time in her life. His eyes were green, but the tone usually only a cat would have. It fits, seeing his house’s sigil. He was so tall….

“Hello” the puzzled knight answered, “what are you doing here, child?” She had no way of knowing it, but the kingslayer wondered just how long she had been there, and what she had seen…

“I….” Gods, or Drowned god if he listened, please give her strength “I saw you on the jousts, Ser…”

Well, the knight still would rather know more “you did? What did you think of it, Lady…” her clothes revealed her status, tho she seemed northern, as he could not recgonize the owl pin with a lamp on it's beak that adorned her purple clothes

“Alva, of house Nielsen “she replied quite shyly, but in the way she had been taught to do so “you were so brave, Ser! I have never seen someone fight like you!” Well, she had never seen someone fight in a tournament.

That did the amuse the lion “why thank you, Lady Alva. I’m glad you enjoyed the jousts. Sorry for not winning, might as well had seen me be the victor in your first tourney “because of her age and birthplace, it wasn’t hard to guess how many she had been too: just that one.

“You still were great! Lord Mormont won because the girl from the house with a Tower sigil gave him her aid!” She didn’t know how, but it seemed that after giving “the clothing probably had magic on them “

The Lannister chuckled, which made her blush once again “no, my lady. Lady Lynesse Hightower gave him her favor. Some men will do crazy things out of love” luckily the girl didn’t seem to have noticed that his beloved sister had been there.

“Oh, a favor?” She had a bracelet; would it be enough? And she loved the knight…Alva took one of them off and offered it to the young knight “for you, Ser Jaime! So you beat Lord Mormont next time!”

The golden knight was amused: surely a northern house wouldn’t be precisely fond of him, wouldn’t they? “My lady, are you sure you know who I am?”

Well, that was embarrassing…she would have to be honest “the man I want to marry, Ser!”

Jaime had to make an effort not to burst out laughing. The child was just too innocent: not only too lowborn for a Lannister, but he was after all a Kingsguard. Not to mention he only loved one woman…yet he did accept her token.

“I’m afraid that’s not possible, my Lady” still, he wrapped the bracelet around his sword “but I will gladly bear your favor for the next tourney “it wouldn’t hurt to entertain the kid after all.

It did take him aback when the girl hugged him, however. Quite awkwardly, he pat her hair, and thought of something.

“I’m sure I will win next time with such a beautiful token” after all, the lady was just a child, he could let her dream a little bit. “But you won’t be able to claim the crown, I’m afraid.”

The kid let him go, puzzled. He had thought of crowning his sister had he won, and had even commissioned a beautiful laurel crown made out of golden flowers, as well as a few real red flowers, to match their house’s colors. Perhaps not a great idea, now that he gave it a thought…he went to search his horse’s saddle.

“What’s his name, Ser?” The girl curiously asked.

“He doesn’t have one “Jaime had lost too many horses, and decided it was better not to name them anymore.

“Oh…he looks like my brother” the girl approached the horse, wanting to pet its snout. The stallion licked her, making Alva laugh “he is like Dravor!”

“That will be his name, then “the knight wondered what would the girl’s brother think of it, but well, maybe the name would suit his mount.

Alva was distracted petting the horse, who enjoyed the extra attention. He took the crown out of the saddle, which drew the little one’s attention.

“What is that, Ser?” The knight had said something about her claiming a crown, but Alva hadn’t quite understood.

“The winner gets to crown a queen of love and beauty “the knight explained. Tyrion would tell him about how the first Daenerys, a girl who had died quite young, had been crowned by Ser Simon Dondarrion. Jaime also recalled that Ser Criston Cole, the Kingmaker, had done the same for Princess Rhaenyra when she was a child. The crown could go to any woman, of any age “Since I will win the next tourney while using your favor, it’s only fair I give you the crown now, as I’m afraid that maybe you won’t be able to attend it.”

Alva was very excited, did he really love her? Tourneys weren’t really a northern tradition, so she didn’t understand it very well, tho it saddened her to know he was right. Jaime knelt and gently put the crown on her head, carefully making sure it wouldn’t harm her head. He took her hand and gave her a sweet kiss on it .

The girl squealed happily, even more so when, once he got back on his feet, the knight lifted her up.

“I guess your parents don’t know you are here, lady Alva” it wasn’t hard to guess, he doubted a pair of northerns would have gladly let their young daughter explore Lannisport by herself. Luckily, as he had been distracted with his sister, his hor-Dravor was ready to go out again. The knight sat the girl on the horse and got on it as well “hold tight, I think they would appreciate if you went back to them “

Alva was having the best day of her life, especially since she got to ride back with her golden knight while wearing the crown he had gifted her. That day would be in her memory for ever…

Ser Jaime had been right. A search had been organized for the northern girl once her mother and servants realized she had gone missing. Lady Nielsen had nearly gone hysterical but was shocked by the sight of her daughter riding a horse with one of the Kingsguards.

And, to make matters worse, it was the dreaded Kingslayer. Alva couldn’t recall much of it, as she still was too focused on the fact that she rode the horse with Ser Jaime, but both her parents were horrified. The thank yous weren’t precisely what another knight would have gotten, tho they made an effort as to not offend his lord Father. Her father was quick to get her from the seat.

The knight, however, didn’t care much, for once. The little girl’s day had been made by his gift, and she was quite reluctant to depart. He would indeed make sure to use her favor on the next tourney.

“Bye, Ser Jaime!” the girl waved as her parents carried her away.

“Bye, Lady Alva” the knight smiled at her. Yet another treasure she would hold forever.

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She never forgot her Golden Knight. Dravor was less than amused to find that the knight had named the horse after him, of course. Her parents decided not to dive more into the matter and allowed Alva to keep the flower crown. After all, a minor house couldn’t always boast about such a gift…

“Kingslayer?” Alva asked, quite puzzled. They had returned to the north a few weeks ago, and the girl would tell everyone in their palace about the man she met.

“That’s who your knight was! The Kingslayer!” Dravor mocked her little sister

“Don’t call ser Jaime like that! “Alva hissed pushed him. Dravor angrily tried to take the crown off her head, making the girl bite her brother’s hand. The maids and her mom intervened as the siblings fought, and even little Alric tried to join the fight.

“Enough, both of you” their mother ordered as two maids managed to hold each child “your father has just returned to our home, don’t cause a fuss! Dravor, don’t antagonize your sister. Alva, we should have a talk…”

Her mother and father explained why her knight had that nickname. It made no sense for Alva.

“King Aerys was evil! He killed lord Eddard’s father and brother!” Everyone in the north knew the story, even at her age.

“He did, but ser Jaime had made the promise to protect him” her father explained gently

“Maybe ser Jaime knew he was going to do something bad!” The girl insisted. Her golden knight was a good person, she knew it

Her mother sighed “Alva, dear…there are people in this world who just aren’t good “and they thought ser Jaime was one of them, no doubt “you can’t trust everyone just because they offered you a smile and a gift “

She held her crown. Why would her knight have given her something so beautiful, if he was a bad person? Alva last saw him the day they departed but couldn’t go to say goodbye. She waved at the knight, who returned her favor “I’m glad you liked the crown, lady Alva!” The queen was next to him and smiled at her. It was weird, tho: she looked like the servant who had kissed her golden knight.

She had refused to take off the crown. Dravor would make fun of her for being so silly, saying the Kingslayer was not going to wed a freckled tiny thing like her anyways, but she paid him no mind.

“He said I was his Queen of love and beauty!” The girl insisted. And she was stubborn about it. “And you also have your face full of freckles!

Her parents could have simply melted the crown or hide it, after all, up north and being a minor house, word wouldn’t reach Casterly Rock. But…the girl clung to it with all her might. Her parents decided to allow it, it was just a silly childhood crush, she would be over it soon enough.

They were wrong.

Alva did understand her place in the world, however. They would make certain visits to Winterfell, or their Lord paramount would go to their castle, at certain times. The Starks would be kind with any of their vassals, even the ones from the mountains, who she heard were almost like wildings. She would leave the crown in her room, no matter if they were going or hosting. Her mother had explained that Lord Eddard disliked ser Jaime, when they went for the first visit, some six months after she met her knight.

Her parents wanted her to marry Robb Stark. Most northern parents wished that for their daughters, no matter what house they were from. Alva found his illegitimate brother, Jon Snow, to be more of her fancy…but she knew it was as likely as her marrying her golden knight, even at a young age. And he wasn’t ser Jaime.

Like every other northern girl, she was unlucky. But she did find a friendship with Sansa Stark, a girl three years younger than her, as Alva had always wanted a sister. She loved going to Winterfell just to speak with Sansa, who was certainly more lady like than Arya. Not that Arya was that bad, however: Dravor and Alric got along with her just fine.
Sansa was the only person who didn’t judge her for her love. The Stark girl understood perfectly her predicament, did so all over the years. She was too polite to tell her it was a lost cause, but even Alva knew, she just couldn’t stop loving her golden knight. Sansa was the only one outside her household to whom Alva showed the crown, during one of the Stark’s visits.

The first time had been six years after she met ser Jaime. The red flowers had dried out, of course, but the golden ones still remained. Gold never faded…. Sansa found it romantic. Especially once Alva explained what it meant for her.

A chill had taken her mother a year after they had gone to the tourney. She was ironborn, and for her sake, she was given their traditional burial. They had to go all the way down to the Manderlys, her father’s kin through his mother, to make sure she got a proper goodbye on the sea, so she could join her god….

Most girls would have found comfort with a doll, their siblings, or father. But her mother’s death took a toll on the man, who grew depressed, and would rather spend his time managing the castle and the smallfolk rather than his children. Dravor, two years older, had to act as a father for her and Alric, two years younger than her, and Alva in turn as a mother for Alric. The servants would help, of course, but it wasn’t quite the same.

She had the crown. She was ser Jaime’s Queen of Beauty and Love. Nothing mattered as long as she knew that. Nothing hurt….

She would dream with him. Dream of riding his horse once again. Alva wondered how horse Dravor was doing, and she hoped he was happier than she and her brothers were. She dreamed of his smile, bright like the last time he had seen her golden knight. How genuine had it looked….

Dravor never quite got why his sister could t just let it go. He would always tease her about it. Alric would join his brother but wasn’t as insistent.

When they practiced in the yard, Dravor would say that if he ever joined a tourney, he would beat the Kingslayer and crown a maid who was actually pretty.

“Ser Jaime would beat you!” Alva would stick her tongue at him.

Not even been formally betrothed at three and ten stopped her from loving her golden knight. The boy was from another northern house, of course. He was nice, and, as she giggled when one of her servants asked, cute. But he wasn’t ser Jaime, and never would be. Alva tried to be polite. Dravor told her that maybe she should get rid of the crown. She, of course, refused.

The boy asked to kiss her once. Alva was shy, and not precisely sure, but alas, she had never been kissed. She closed her eyes and imagined that it wasn’t a boy kissing her: it was a man. It was her golden knight. It was ser Jaime who gently held her face as their lips danced together. She opened her eyes, but it wasn’t him…Alva still smiled, at least she was able to pretend that the first man to kiss her had been her true love…

The king was going to Winterfell, it had been announced. Alva wanted to go, of course, but her father refused. It just wasn’t a good time to go, he claimed.

A raven came with good news: news of the betrothal of Sansa with Prince Joffrey. Not for Alric, he thought Sansa was pretty. Alva tried to ask her father if she could go south as a lady in waiting, but he refused.

Some days after that, a raven came with bad news: Bran Stark had suffered a terrible accident.

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News never returned to being good after the Stark boy fell. Everything started to get worse and worse, and the news often was as dark as the ravens that carried it . Tensions had risen between the North and the Lannisters after the arrest of their Lord Paramount. Her father and Dravor had been summoned to march down with Robb Stark and would travel with the Manderly men. Alva and Alric went to say their farewells, mainly to their brother. Their father waited for him, distant as he had been ever since losing his wife.

"I will send your regards to the Kingslayer, freckles , " her brother chuckled.

"Dravor, you should pray to the gods if he comes anywhere near you , " Alva rolled her eyes. Her brother ruffled her hair ; he was the eldest after all.

"Just take care. And you too , " of course, he had to do the same with Alric's hair.

"I want to go too! Not stay here and be babysat by Alva , " he grumbled.

"I'm not babysitting you, my lord . " Though he was three and ten, as Alva was a daughter and unwed, he would be the lord of the castle until their father and elder brother returned. As an older sister , though , she would ensure to annoy him to no end. Hopefully, they would make a quick return.

Yet another raven arrived, its news dark as ever. Lord Eddard Stark was dead. He was a fair and just man ; everyone in the North knew it. Alva wondered why he had accused Ser Jaime of having fathered the royal children: Lord Eddard would not have lied . Everyone in the North, from the youngest smallfolk babe to the oldest highborn grandpa knew that, but maybe he was wrong about who the queen's lover was. Ser Jaime wouldn't do something as horrible as sleeping with his own sister.

Her brother ordered everyone to mourn for their Lord Paramount, but that was not necessary: everyone in her castle cried when they learned of his fate. How could King Joffrey be such a cruel lad? He was the same age as her brother, yet Alric was a kind boy.

Of course, the next news were more devastating, at least for the siblings: Dravor was dead. He had been killed, a sword cut through his belly while he was protecting King Robb (the North was now a kingdom, but those news had not been quite as bad, and frankly irrelevant, next ot the news of Lord Eddard's fate). She hugged Alric as they both cried, her younger brother holding onto her as he had done when their mother had been taken by that chill.

The maester had to read the rest of the letter to the crying siblings. There were other important matters (her betrothed had died in the same battle ; yet, as harsh as it sounded, he was not on her mind at the moment), but one part stuck with Alva: 

Dravor was slain by the Kingslayer. 

Dravor was slain by Ser Jaime. 

She did not know when, but she let go of the crying Alric and went straight to her bedroom.

 The fire was burning , for in the North , allowing it to die down would ensure that the unrelenting cold got inside. Her crown...her crown was on her wardrobe, where she always kept it whenever Alva was not holding it. She grabbed it and , without thinking clearly, threw it onto the fire as she sobbed.

 "My brother...Ser...." She was not talking to anyone, perhaps to herself. " How could you?"

 " You...Kingsl....Ser...." Alva simply stared as flames danced around the crown.... She could not let it melt. 

Just as she had thrown it without a second thought, she reached to recover it with her bare hands. Not a wise decision.... 

Alva refused to throw it away, despite the pain,and put it on her desk as soon as possible. Her hands hurt a lot. She would definitely need to see the maester and come up with an excuse for what happened. Otherwise, she would have to explain why she could not hate the man who had killed her brother. 

"We...we are at war , " Alva mumbled to herself. The letter said Dravor was killed in the battle, after all. Ser Jaime could not have known who he was killing.... But Alva was still angry. She still had tried to get rid of it. Would he be able to forgive her? At least the crown did not melt ; she managed to get it out just in time...

The maester luckily asked no questions, the girl had been under stress. Alva was puzzled later than night, when her brother didn't join her for dinner at their small dinning hall, as he would usually do

"Sara...where is Alric?" Alva asked to their youngest kitchenmaid in a soft voice as she starred at the honeyed chicken before her, it's thick sauce melting as the raisings soaked it...but she wasn't hungry.

Sara had been crying, as well :Dravor's death hit everyone "Did you not hear, m'lady? He is making preparations for the new prisoner?"

"Prisoner?" asked a puzzled Alva. Well, she had not heard or read the rest of the letter,she must have been missed something important

"The Kingslayer..."Sara said with venom in her voice "Lor...King Robb ordered for him to be kept here. Some of his men will bring him, along with lord Dravor's body..."

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Luckily, the impending arrival of Ser Jaime kept the maester and Alric too busy to think much of her burnt hands. Alva had dreamed of her golden knight coming to their castle to ask for her hand in marriage for years, but... She expected her brothers to be by her side, with Dravor teasing her about how silly she would look while staring at her golden knight. Dravor had started to appear in her dreams... her mother hadn't, even after all those years she had been resting in the sea.

She expected her brothers to be by her side, with Dravor teasing her over how silly she would look while staring at her golden knight.

Her brother had favored their mother's side quite a lot: a tall boy, who at two and ten had already been taller than their lord father. He had red hair and brown eyes, instead of the Nielsens ' usual bright yellow hair and soft blue eyes. Dravor had a few freckles on his face, but not as many as Alric, and especially not as many as Alva, who he had nicknamed Freckles. He was an annoying older brother…. but he had been the brother who ensured she and Alric attended their maester lessons to learn how to read. He had been the brother who would practice sword fighting with Alric, along with their castellan.

Their father often preferred to deal with the matters of their castle and the smallfolk, so their elder brother had played the role of raising her and her little brother for the last nine years. He had a betrothed, of course, but she, like Alva, couldn't even call herself a widow. "His death was an accident; it was a war..." Alva would mumble to herself after every time she saw her brother, who came by to say goodbye in her dreams... It was better to focus on something else: she and Alric had to prepare the castle for their guest... well, prisoner, but she preferred to think otherwise.

"King Robb sent the order: he is sorry for Dravor's death, but believes it will be better to hide the Kingslayer here at Northlight Keep, " Alric explained, trying to recall what the letter said. Alva held her tongue and didn't correct her brother. " They will bring him over by sea to Lord Manderly, and his men will escort him here.”

House Nielsen had always been a minor house, sworn to the Manderlys of White Harbor. While they had a maester, a smith, and a castellan, the castle boasted only four maids, one of whom also served as the cook, and, since most of the men had gone south with her father and brother, currently there were only around ten guards. Their castle would be perfect for hiding someone of such importance.

The Starks would visit every single of their vassals, from the big houses like the Manderlys, to those of the mountain clans. From what their Southron maester would say, it was unusual for a Lord Paramount to behave this way. In turn, her father and little brother had agreed without much resistance.

Alric gave instructions to the guards, directing the few men they had left to secure the castle 's exterior. He put Alva in charge of ensuring the room was ready; that was the role of the lady of the castle anyway.

The maids weren't happy about serving the man who killed Dravor; Alva knew that. Sara was the youngest of them, so the maids asked their lady if she could be the one to bring him his meals and change his bedclothes.

Of course, Alva agreed. Sara was a couple of years older than her, and she could easily persuade the maid to leave her certain tasks.

"I want to be the one to deliver the meals to the prisoner, " Alva said . It was the perfect idea.

The maid had been fond of her brother, but luckily, she commented, " Are you sure, m'lady? He could hurt you..." but she was also fond of the girl.

“Don’t worry about it” ser Jaime wouldn’t hurt her, of course “it’s a custom of the Southrons to accompany highborn prisoners while they dine, especially the lady of the house. Since my mother is dead, I think I will have to do so…but don’t tell my brother, he wouldn’t understand the importance of this, you know how boys can be“

Luckily, the maid believed her.

It took around two weeks for the ship to arrive at White Harbor, according to the next raven they received. It would take a day or two for her beloved to be taken from there to Northlight Keep. It would take a day or two for her brother's bones to come home...

Alric and Alva had made preparations for his funeral ever since receiving the letter. The north wasn't a good site to bury the dead in the land, so northern houses would do so beneath their castles. No crypts were as magnificent as those of the Starks, of course. It wasn't easy ; no one had expected to bury Dravor before their lord father....

His death still hurt her deeply, even though she knew they were at war: Alva had loved her brother. Her only comfort was that she would get to see her beloved Jaime once again…

One morning, their guards spotted Manderly’s Merman. Their great uncle wasn't among them, as he was preparing for the harvest festival that would take place in Winterfell. Alric had four guards ride with him and told Alva to wait with the rest of the women to finalize the last details for Dravor's funeral.

She was now the eldest, but she was still a woman. Alva had no choice but to obey her brother, even if it hurt her... but she made sure everything was perfect for her older brother's funeral. The siblings held each other as they laid his bones to rest...

Neither of them felt much hunger, so they both returned to their bedrooms without dining in together. Alva changed into her nightgown, as it would raise suspicion if someone saw her in her day clothes. She brushed her hair and washed her face; who would want to see a crying girl?

Sara arrived with the room’s keys and two sets of dinner trays: Alva’s had beef and bacon pie, with the melted fruit dripping around, and a cup of warm cider. The other seemed to be a root stew, with some bits of turnips, beets and parsnips, tho spotting them was hard, as the stew was dark.

She couldn’t give that to Ser Jaime. Alva was confident, or at least wanted to believe that the cook didn’t spit on the broth as she started to eat it herself. It had chunks of mutton, quite hard to chew. And it had beets…she gulped them down, as it was better if there was no evidence that she ate such a thing.

Once she was done, Alva waited for the hour of the bat before grabbing the tray with the pie, put on her crown, and went to the room she had helped prepare. The perk of Alric being in charge, is that father and Dravor wouldn’t have assigned her that job….
She set the tray down before opening the door with the keys and went inside the room. Her knight, who was patiently waiting in one of the chairs they had placed in his bedroom, was even more handsome than she had remembered.

He was now four and thirty. Ser Jaime still had his beautiful, long blonde hair and now sported a well - kept beard that gave him a fiercer look. She felt his sharp green eyes looking at her and couldn't help but blush.

Alva walked over, put his dinner on the table, and sat at the other chair. "Hello, Ser..." she spoke shyly. "I'm glad to see you again. "

Chapter Text

The knight had arrived in chains, no one wanted to be responsible for losing the Kingslayer. The castle's young lord did not look happy and expressed his wish to cut off his head, but added that he wasn't doing so because Northerners were men of their word. Men... the lad was a boy, barely three and ten at most.

"House Nielsen, you say. I think I nearly lost my sword in your brother's stomach. " He was in a terrible position, of course, but nothing could wear down his pride. Not even his unkempt appearance, as the Northerners had refused to kindly give him anything too sharp.

The blonde, freckled boy lord glared at him. " Free him from the chains and take the Kingslayer inside the castle. " Jaime had no doubt that this tiny castle had no dungeon, as five guards and the boy escorted him to a room in an upper chamber.

The house's banner, a white, blue eyed owl carrying a lamp on its beak while flying across a purple field, was quite familiar. He even recalled that he had a horse named after the lordling he had killed...but that was long ago, the last time he had even bothered to name one, and a curious little girl had chosen it. He had not given it much thought.

The room looked oddly comfortable, looking at the forest near the castle, but smaller than what he was used to. The bed was what he longed for the most after weeks of traveling and being forced to sleep on the floor. "I'm honored that you are kind enough to give me a room with such a nice view, while you throw your brother into a crypt.”

The boy lord tightened his fist, refusing to answer the question. What a rude brat. " The maids have already prepared you a bath, Kingslayer, " he mumbled, "and your breakfast is ready. "

"How thoughtful, my lord, " he mocked the boy. " Would you be kind enough to give me a knife? I have not been able to shave my beard during my long trip, it seems that I am not trustworthy enough to have any steel on me... but you will be kind enough, right, lordling?"

No doubt the boy wished he could have his head at that exact moment, but such a minor house would not dare to disobey the wolf pup. The lording reached for his own knife. " Here, give it back as soon as you are done. " The guards all looked nervous, their hands already going for their swords.

Jaime went to the nearest mirror and took his sweet time, not even shaving it completely as that would be faster, instead simply getting it down to a trimmer look, as the boy lord and the guards trying to be as patient as possible. When he was done, the knight quite kindly returned the knife.

Instead of taking it, the boy just glared at him. " Should you try to escape, a cold death awaits you, Kingslayer, " the freckled child promised as he grabbed his knife before leaving him all alone.

Well, courtesies were rarely given to him by Northerners, especially these days. Jaime decided to eat; the oatcakes the cook had made for him were, unfortunately, quite dry, with nothing to spread on them, and the plum juice was not sweet enough. Afterward, he took the bath the Nielsens had so kindly prepared for him. Would they get him a new horse if he were to kill the lordling?

The rest of the day was uneventful, save for when a maid brought his lunch and yet another chair. There were some books in his room, but he had never really cared about letters; that was more for Tyrion. At least that northern shithole had a pleasant view, he tried to distract himself by looking outside, but it seemed that even the animals wanted to avoid him. He could not escape by climbing down, as much as he wished, since he knew firsthand that snow would not make for an easy fall; one just had to think of poor Bran Stark...

Jaime decided to wait for his dinner. He could not do much anyway, simply wait, sleep, and change into the sleeping clothes his "hosts" provided. He woke up near the hour of the bat and decided to wait for the maid who was supposed to bring his dinner.

Instead, as the door opened, a highborn girl (at least more so than the maid) brought his tray. She set it on the table and sat in the free chair. He glanced at her, puzzled. The girl was not particularly tall or short. She had even more freckles than the boy lord, but with the same eye color, and wore her hair in a single braid. Her hair was blonde, but not golden like that of his family. Definitely a Nielsen. Had he met a Nielsen girl before? Jaime was almost sure of it...

"Hello, Ser..." the maiden said. "I'm glad to see you again.”

Glad? Ser? The weirdest part, however, was the dinner the maiden brought: a pie. He was not sure what it was made of, but after weeks of poor meals, he was more than happy to accept it. Still, he was curious about one thing.

"Is your house so poor that you can't afford another servant?" Why would the sister of the acting lord have to bring dinner to the prisoner? Not that he would not accept it ...but the girl could have put poison in it.

Well, if she did, he could still have enough time to strangle her. He grabbed the fork and knife as to slice it before he took a bite, its sweet taste was for sure welcome after weeks of such unsavory food. Beef and bacon…northern food could be odd but had an amazing flavor.

"I... I just wanted to see you, Ser, " Kingslayer. Why wasn't she calling him Kingslayer? "Maybe you don't remember me...."

Jaime looked at her once more and noticed the crown. A northern girl, a Nielsen girl, with a crown meant for the Queen of Love and Beauty...by the gods, he had seen her back when the Mormont beat him in a joust.

"Your name was Alva..." She was still a freckled little thing, even if the girl had probably flowered already.

Her eyes seemed to grow bigger. " Yes, Ser, that is my name..." Alva smiled at him. "I have not forgotten you..." but her smile faded. Right, he had killed her brother. "Ser, I... I’m sorry. "

“Why are you sorry for?” The pie was definitely poisoned, but seeing he couldn’t feel anything yet, Jaime decided he could allow her to live for a little bit longer.

She took the crown from her head and set it on the table. "I heard about my brother... I am so sorry. I got terribly angry and threw the crown you gave me into the fire. I did get it back, but I should not have done it. " The little fool had bandages on both hands; her story was true. If Jaime were honest, he could barely remember what the crown even looked like in the first place. "I killed your brother... and you are the one saying sorry?"

"You two were at war..." the northern girl mumbled, staring at the chimney. "I told Dravor he wouldn't be able to beat you, that he should run away if he saw you... you didn't know it was him, right, Ser?"
Ah, the horse... Jaime shook his head. Of course, he did not know; he did not know any of the lordlings he killed that day. "I wanted to get to Robb Stark. What a pity that your brother did not listen to your advice. " It was a good one; the lordling had been a fool not to heed it.

The girl looked back at him, certainly holding back tears. " Do you still have the horse I named after him?"

"Child, horses die more than soldiers. " He was not even sure when he lost that one.

"Oh..." Maybe that would shut her up. "I'm sorry that we are fighting your nephew, Ser. Lord Eddard Stark wrote that he is your son, but I don't believe it. With your pardon, I do believe that your sister has a lover. Lord Stark wouldn't lie, but he could be wrong. "

Jaime could not help but laugh; what a poor little fool. He considered slapping her for saying that about Cersei, of course, but her innocence was astonishing. “Why, thank you for not believing such rumors. " Rumors that were definitely true. " My sweet sister would never cheat on the king, rest assured; but Joffrey was a fool for beheading your beloved Lord Stark.

The maiden seemed to be trying to choose her next words. "Ser... you said I was going to be your Queen of Love and Beauty for the next tourney you win... did you win?" It seemed she wanted to remember the journey more than anything.

"Of course I did, and won you the title" Well, he lost the next one to Selmy but won the one his father held once again in Lannisport a few years later. He had crowned his sister, of course, but maybe it would not hurt to let the poor girl think otherwise. " You are still the Queen of Love and Beauty in Lannisport.”

That seemed to light up her mood, but Jaime was more interested in finishing his meal. He was unsure of what the warm drink was, but its rising steam smelled of spiced apples, and with the northern cold, which not even the flames of the chimney could do much against, it was needed. Jaime took a sip; the flavor was sweet and tangy, an effective way to fight the northern cold. The apple's taste was softened by the cinnamon and cloves, which warmly embraced his tongue, and a pleasant warmth spread down his throat. Still, something puzzled him. " Was that hot cider?"

She looked at him with her head tilted. " Isn’t all cider hot?" Of course, that was the North. Cold drinks were not something they were used to.

"Most of them are not, but I prefer wines. Not hot, of course, my lady. " Better to let her know, as it seemed she wanted to work as a wench for him. "Cold wines..."

"Oh, my mother was fond of those. " Perhaps her mother wasn't Northern after all.

He went back to eating the pie. "You know,” Jaime said as he took the last bites with his fork, "Prisoners don't usually eat this well. "

"I know, Ser. This was my dinner; I could not let you eat the hideous beet soup, " that freckled idiot...

"I have to thank you, then. I loathe beets. " Yes, he was a man grown, but he never learned to like the flavor. He was done with his meal but still had some questions. " You do all this because I gave you a crown?"

Alva shook her head. " Because I love you, Ser Jaime. " She smiled softly. "I fell for you that day, and you have been on my mind ever since. " She reached to caress his arm across the table.

Gods...the girl had been six back then. Jaime had even thought of killing her, but she did not seem to have seen his sweet sister, who went to tell him she was once again with his child. Myrcella was born the next year and was closer to the maiden's age than he was. He gently moved his arm back.

"I'm the Kingslayer, my lady, " Jaime tried to remind her, "and I killed your brother. Do not forget that. "

"King Aerys was an evil man. " Well, about that, she was not wrong. "Dravor...I told you, Ser, it was an accident.”

"Just Jaime is fine. " At least he had someone to talk to, though she was too foolish and naive. "I assume your little brother doesn't know you are here? "

"Y-you can just call me Alva in that case, s-...Jaime, " the poor thing mumbled. " No, he doesn’t. "

Well, perhaps he would come to regret this, but "I would be glad to keep having you here to talk. It’s too damn boring in here; the only company I have is the books, and I'm not really a man of letters. "

"I apologize for that. I thought maybe you would like some tales about knights. " Ah, perhaps she read one too many.

"I have lived better tales than those in the books, " which was not a lie, but some were grimmer than any of them, and he was not the knight anyone would want to tell stories about.

"Could you tell me about them?" the girl asked.

"Why, of course, " Jaime agreed. What is the worst that could happen if left alone with a maid at such hours?

Chapter Text

Alva had kept going to his room for the next fortnight, and he was sure the girl was trying to show off the few attributes she had. If he was Tyrion, it would have worked, and perhaps she would already have a replacement for her brother on the way. Even while dressed in simple, warm layers typical, wrinkled by his days there, instead of the polished armor and fine silks he was used to, the girl still longed for him too.

“Jaime, I brought you your supper” she said as she came in with her nightgowns at the hour of the bat, once again.

Had he known how things would turn out, Jaime thought that maybe he could have been less kind to the little girl she had been. Still, he had to admit that telling her his stories made him feel like a knight once again. The girl would listen to him with the same excitement that he had listened to the Blackfish’s stories, back when he was the same age as the maiden’s brother.

“What do you think happened to Wenda the White Fawn?” Alva asked, that seemed to be her favorite story, back of when he was just a squire.

“I honestly do not know, but I will always thank her for burning her fawn into Merret Frey’s arse” that earned a laugh from the girl, and Jaime smiled a bit, she was always interested in his stories, and didn’t seem to hold any bitter feelings towards him, which he had to admit felt strange. She was endlessly curious, asking about his battles, his travels, and what it was like to live in King’s Landing and Casterly Rock.

It was fun, really. She should be calling him Kingslayer and poisoning his food and drink from the first time. He could push her and run through the door every time she came to see him, it would be easy…or choke her and leave her little body there as he tried to find a way out…. But she would always smile close the door behind them. He wasn’t even sure if she locked it anymore.

That night, she had brought a bottle of wine and a warmer blanket, after he gave a slight complaint about the lack of warmth of the ones he had been given. Maybe she was going a bit too far.

“You act like a wench” he scolded the maiden, but mostly jokingly. To think the innocent little thing he had thought of killing had she arrived a minute earlier, ten years ago, was making sure he was as comfortable as possible in his luxurious cage. If only Alva knew she could have ended up like the Stark child, or worse…

“I…just like making sure your stay here is comfortable “she answered. Ah, poor thing, maybe he should try being a bit gentler with the poor girl.

Jaime did have to admit that talking to her was the most entertaining part of his day. There was not much to do, trapped in his luxurious cell: if his brother were in his place, he would ask for a book, but Jaime was not fond of reading. And the boredom was for sure getting to him, as he glanced at the maiden, his mind produced some dangerous ideas. In his defense, he missed Cersei.

No woman was as beautiful as Cersei. He had not seen his sweet sister for a long time…he should eat. He should eat, focus on something else. But there she was, smiling fondly at the man who killed her own brother. It was the unfortunate effect he had on women, it seemed.

That night’s dinner was one of the best: a honeyed chicken looked good enough, it’s a thick sauce melting as the raisings soaked it, accompanied with a salad made up of turnip greens, fennel, apple, lemongrass, and walnuts to go with it. He suspected the girl had to eat yet more beet soup. Oh, the things love could make a person do…

“You should eat some of it yourself next time, little wench” he insisted as he sat to eat.

“I’m starting to grow fond of beet soup “that had to be a lie, no one could end up liking such a hideous thing.

“Oh, my sweet Alva, lying does not suit you at all “yet she had convinced the maid about a made-up costume from the South, Jaime had to admire that. Perhaps she had some wit herself. He had tried the soups he had for lunch, and could just imagine she was not having the best time with it. His usual breakfast was made up of some oatcakes, with nothing to at least give them some flavor. He brought it up once, and the girl brought him a jar of honey and a spoon for him to use. Surely, everyone in the castle but the girl cursed their old gods every time he was allowed to breath.

“I’m sorry, Jaime” the girl lived to please him. She did not realize how much of a bad idea that was. Jaime sighed; she was an idiot.

“You know, other men in my position would ask you to do some pretty unsavory deeds” way too many, specially with a girl so eager to please him on everything.

“I would be glad to do so for you…” the girl was stubborn, as expected from someone who said she did not believe the lies of him fucking his own sister…

His sweet sister…thinking of her made him hard…but she was not anywhere near him.

“My vows would not allow me such a thing, child. Try being smarter" maybe telling the maid about it would be a good idea, but that one was definitely helping the little fool. And he would lose his only companion.

The girl pouted, and tried to talk about something else “I wish I could show you the castle, Jaime. The sunset is incredibly beautiful on the northern tower…. a friend said the view is romantic “

She probably wanted a knight in shining armor to accompany her. He was not that option. Her smiles for him were sincere, she was an innocent little freckled thing, who longed for the knight he would have loved to be…but had to conform with the knight he was.

“I think I shall pass “just eat, that is what he had to do. Not stare at the girl…because that is what she was, a girl. She did not have the beautiful breasts that Cersei did for sure, but still nice enough…about which he should not even think. Gods, he missed his sister. The girl blushed a bit, it seemed that he had been starring at a wrong spot by mistake “ah, forgive me my lady, I feel tired…” at least her common sense was still acting.

“It’s alright…” too all right, going by her tone, it seemed it actually wasn’t there. “Do you want a cup of wine? I found a bottle of…” the girl got up to get it and served him a cup but tripped as she returned and spilled it on herself.

Jaime was not so cruel as to let the clumsy creature by herself. He went to help her get up….and unfortunately, that is when he allowed himself to act like a fool. It could had been a trick by her…but she was not Cersei to try something like that, as much as she tried to throw herself at him like she would.

She was not Cersei...Her breasts had too many freckles. She was not Cersei, her eyes were blue…. She was not Cersei, her figure was not as slender. She was not Cersei, her curves were not as graceful…

But he did not have Cersei. He had the girl, Alva. Blonde too, but not like his sister…as he helped the girl stand on her feet by offering his hand, he did one of his most idiotic acts ever: Jaime pulled her over for a deep kiss.

Judging by the soft moans that left her body, either she had been waiting for that for a very long time, or she didn’t have any experience. Perhaps a bit of both. Jaime hungrily claimed her lips as he cupped her little freckled face and the girl held his nightgowns with strength, maybe he was being a bit too rough…but Cersei was used to it, and Alva would need to do the same if he wanted to serve him right, like she had offered. The maiden’s small and soft hands hardly reached his hair as she stood in her tip toes, the knight taking the chance to coax her mouth open as he slid his tongue into her mouth. Cersei would have kissed back with the same passion and their tongues would have danced: the maiden simply let him do as he pleased.

Jaime had done many things he regretted, but never deflowered a maid half his age …but a man couldn’t only get so bored. He would need to apologize to Cersei and to the Maiden, maybe the Warrior as well…and the Crone, definitely to the Crone. But the little thing wanted him, and who was he to deny her a night with a Lannister?

“Forgive me,” he mumbled against her lips after breaking their kiss. It was more to Cersei than to her, the girl wanted it, after all. His sister’s image kept lingering in the back of his mind. He was just a bored man; Cersei would surely understand…

“Jaime…” please, be scared. Yell, call for help. Make sure he is thrown into the dungeons and not let out ever again. “Please Jaime, take me…”

Gods, was this a test? He felt his cock rising…he could take her from behind, pretend she was Cersei, as long as he ignored her pale blonde hair” strip” gods, he was a fool.

Even worse, Alva was even more of a fool. She quickly obeyed, undoing her clothes and setting them aside, leaving her as naked as her name day. Her breasts were much smaller, and full of freckles like her face. A blonde bush hid her dripping cunt…. just a few kisses, and she was already wet for him…. The north’s cold made her shiver, and Jaime knew he should be generous enough to warm her up, as he would do for his beloved sister.

Jaime took off his trousers, his cock finally allowed to rise freely. He grabbed the girl’s arm once again, and lowered his head to kiss between her breasts “arbor gold?” That was a fancy wine, no doubt her Lord Father had been saving it for a special occasion. And he got it just by asking for some wine, and was tasting it straight of her sweet breasts.

“T-the best for you, Jaime…” she spoke shyly, moaning as he licked and kissed her breasts, which definitely better than using a cup.

“Why, thank you…” the knight chuckled, such a sweet innocent thing. Had Cersei ever been like that? No, which made him love his sister…but she wasn’t there. The small, freckled breasts with pink nipples he was taking into his mouth were not hers.

The cunt dripping for him was not hers, either. Jaime kept playing with her nipples as he lowered his right hand to gently give her some needed attention as he pet her cunt with his digits. He knew just where to touch, earning even more moans from the girl.

“You are a maiden” it was not a question; he knew the answer. A Maiden closer to Joffrey’s age than his own…the girl could not even answer, but nearly yelled as he put a finger inside. The wetness welcomed three of his fingers and she clenched tightly as he moved them inside her. Gods, he was a fool….

But a fool who loved Cersei. He took his fingers out and stared at the girl in front of her, who looked at him with soft blue eyes. He felt like a sick man, he had met the girl was a child…but she didn’t grow under his care, which had to make it better…And she was more than pleased to do whatever he wanted, be whoever he wanted.

“Jaime….” Alva gently called for him. The bed wasn’t an option, the maid would know, and he doubted the girl could bribe her if she found out…it was foolish, the las time he had laid with his sister in the north, it did not end well…

But he couldn’t refuse…didn’t want to “turn around, my lady…put your hands against the wall.”

She looked confused, but complied “the bed…”

“It will let the maids know we were together” he knew that too well, after years of fucking Cersei. Usually, they would do that in hidden places, but he didn’t have the option at the moment. The knight put himself behind her, his body pressing deliciously against the northern girl, his erection rubbing against her virgin cunt leaving no room for doubt of what they were about to do. He had slain her brother, yet she was more than available to help him remember his sweet sister… “And I would rather not let them find out,” he whispered on her ear, making the girl shiver. He would have to wait a lot to fuck Cersei once again, it was better to have a replacement while he waited.

“I’m all yours…” she stated. Jaime smirked; oh, the things he did for love…

Slowly, his cock slid into her cunt. He kissed Alva to make sure she couldn’t yell, or else they would be interrupted “shh…it’s alright, it’s not comfortable at first…” he reassured the trembling girl and hadn’t started to move yet.

“Jaimie…. gods….” she moaned softly, and took him so well, her cunt had a good grip around his cock. He gave her time to adjust, but wanted more…

“May I move, my si…sweet maiden?” He asked, even if the girl was a maiden until a few moments ago. She nodded.

Jaime started to pound in slowly, her cunt all wet and soft around him made it all too easy. One of his hands played with her breasts, soft and small, but warm, nonetheless. His other handheld her ass to let his cock reach her delicious tight cunt, but oh she did have a pretty one...

“Jaime…Jaime!” Alva would moan, that was a dream come true for the northern girl.

He didn’t moan her name but managed not to say his sister’s as their flesh clashed, earning soft whimpers from her. Jaime imagined that he was taking Cersei, softly kissing her neck and focusing on the yellow hair, even it wasn’t the right color…

He felt her come over and over again on his cock, the poor thing was definitely so needy…against his best judgement, her forgot to get out on time, spilling his seed into her sweet cunt. Gods, what a fool…

Carefully, he pulled out but held her gently as her trembling legs would make her fall otherwise. Gods, the girl needed to rest…Jaime gently picked her and carried the former maiden to his bed.

Alva hugged her golden knight “Jaime? I thought we shouldn’t use the bed…” she said softly, but would be lying if she said she didn’t long to share it with her knight.

“For fucking, not for resting “he explained as he laid with the blonde girl, who still cuddled against his chest “are you alright?” He would not want his only companion to get hurt.

She smiled and nodded “I could not be any better…” the girl shyly reached for a kiss, which Jaime was kind enough to give back.

“Rest for now, but make sure to go back to your room before the hour of the nightingale “the servants would wake by then for sure.For now, he would allow her to stay, to rest by his side, and let her believe in the illusion of tenderness he could pretend to give her.

“Yes, my Jaime…” Alva smiled and reached to play with his golden hair, which he allowed.

At the very least, he now had a replacement for Cersei’s cunt, but it wasn’t precisely the same. Jaime wondered what would Lord Nielsen give him for deflowering his only daughter....

Chapter Text

Alva laid on top of her golden knight for a few more minutes, tenderly kissing him again to reassure herself that it was no dream. His beard tickled her face, but she did not mind at all.

"Rest, Alva..." mumbled Jaime, and the girl obeyed, but woke up before the hour of the nightingale to return to her room.

Once one of the servants came to wake her, Alva asked her to draw her a warm bath as soon as she could.

Alva could still feel his seed inside her as the hot water helped her wash away the evidence of that night, which the nightgowns had concealed. It was not what she wished for, but she didn't want her golden knight to get in trouble. The girl prayed for a child to be born from that night...

Every dream had come true as soon as Jaime kissed her. She had indeed tripped, feeling a bit dizzy since the soup wasn't the best supper. Alva had thought of telling him to stop because as much as she wished it, it was a bad idea.. . but of course, she chose not to say anything.

Jaime had deflowered her. She had been more than happy to let him kiss her breasts, and especially to allow him to enter her. No other man would ever take her. Alva was finally his.

That made her feel happier than ever. She went to the castle's Weirdwood tree by herself and prayed yet again for a baby, but also for Dravor's forgiveness, hoping he could understand she still loved him. She missed her brother...

Alva heard an owl hoot: strange, considering the sun was already out. She looked at the creature and swore for a second that it had brown eyes, and blinked, but soon it had the same yellow eyes every owl had, save for the one in their sigil. It was white, as most owls in the north were. The creature stared at her and tilted its head before flying away.

Alva decided it was better to go eat her breakfast already, maybe she was hungry and imagining things. It had been a while since she had eaten with her brother, both having been busy with their grief and retreated to their rooms. But Alric was, luckily, also in their dining hall.

“Good morning, Alva” her brother said as she sat next to him

“Have you slept well these days?” Alva asked, her little brother had huge bags under his eyes.

The boy shook his head. " Oh, I did not tell you, did I?" he sighed . " A raven arrived two days ago ; it seemed that ironmen have raided the Stony Shore, and it is said they took Deepwood Motte."

"May the Others take the squids. " Alva was shocked; they had never been so bold. Then again... " By the gods, are mother's brothers among them?"

If they were, it could mean complications for their house. Their mother had been from an Iron Island house and had a brother and a half - brother. She had once explained that it was not unusual for men there to take more than one wife, though she didn't give more details. The maester did when she inquired.

Her full uncle and her mother were both children of her grandparents, which meant that her grandmother, a rock wife, was born in the Iron Islands. Her mother said that Dravor had the looks of her older brother, a tall, red -haired man who fought with a war hammer, but was very quiet and shy at times. Her grandsire had taken a salt wife as well, meaning that woman was possibly not from the Iron Islands, or perhaps just common born, and she gave him a son. He was slender and not as tall as her other uncle, but he was clever and a troublemaker . That was her mother's youngest brother, and she said that while his hair was originally red, he would use Myrish hair dyes to color it a dark green tone.

Alva and her brothers had never met them, or their grandsire, as her grandmother died when her mother was a child. Her mother said that her father was a serious man who did not approve of her and Alva’s father's marriage. Alva wished she could have asked more about how they met. She would make sure any children she had with Jaime knew how they fell in love. It was a promise to herself.

"Alva? Alva? Are you listening?" Her little brother shook her shoulder a bit, which he often did when she drifted in her thoughts.

"Oh, sorry..." she apologized.

"You always do that, " Alric complained. " No, not as far as I have heard, but if they are, we need to remind everyone that we are Northerners.”

“Well, we are Northerners already, after all, King Robb trusted us with The Kingslayer.” it hurt to call him like that “battles are for men, anyways”

“I guess I will be the one protecting us, with every men who can carry a sword” Alric rolled his eyes, but recalled something “well, if you want to know about women stuff..the maids told me a bottle of Arbor Gold went missing “

Well, if every men included Jaime, they would be safe, but she could not mention that“Maybe a mouse?” No, that was stupid “a mouse with very expensive taste” well, she was technically the mouse

"Alva, do not be silly! Unless it had help, I doubt a mouse could do such a thing , " the boy argued as their breakfast was served.

There were two duck eggs for each, fried as her brother preferred and had certainly ordered. They were accompanied by a strip of bacon, a loaf of bread, and two sausages, all freshly made . Well, three for Alva, as she did not fancy blood pudding, unlike Alric, who loved it. They also had black ale to wash it down.

There was some berries preserve for the bread, but she hid it before her brother could see it so she could take it to Jaime later. Alric would eat his bread without anything on it in any case.

Alva waited impatiently for the night to come. She would attend to the matters of the castle, see that the crop storage was going well, and retire back to her needlework. Ever since Jaime had arrived, she had been boarding a lion.. . which she had to keep concealing, as explaining it would not be easy.

The thoughts of the iron born invading their castle was terrifying, no doubt. She wanted to feel safe…but Dravor was dead, and she was the one who would usually take care of Alric. Alva longed to be with Jaime once again, she would feel safe in his arms.

Chapter Text

Alva, of course. The picrew is the only one that allowed a medieval setting. The crown would look a bit like that, except only the golden flowers would remain.

Alric, new heir of Northlight Keep. He needs a nap lately

Chapter Text

The freckled girl was kissing her knight, as they both laid naked as in their name days after their recent meeting. Alva loved him so much, wished to be only his, give her golden knight so many children...

"What were you going to tell me about the Iron Born , little wench?" Jaime asked. She had tried to talk about it before the knight took her once more.

"Oh, I nearly forgot...” she forgot about everything as soon as he had begun to kiss her, but this was important "they raided the Stony Shore and have taken over the Glover’s castle. Only the gods know how many of them came..."

"The squids are giving the wolves trouble?" The girl couldn't see the smirk on his face, she was busy cuddling against him.

"I fear them...we do not have enough men to protect the castle if they come here " but Alva felt safe laying in his arms.

"If you give me a sword, you will not have to worry" Jaime promised, and Alva smiled at the thought.

"Could we marry? Alric might trust you more if you are his good brother " she suggested.

"My Kingsguard vows do not allow me, my lady " he had promised to serve his southern gods...

"We are in the north, and you did not swear to our old gods " marriages between followers of either gods would require the vows to be done in the presence of the septons and the weirwood, according to their maester, but just the latter would be enough for them. Her parents had apparently married in front of a weirwood, and then found a Drowned Priest so their marriage would be blessed by her mother's god too.

“Few would beg for a Kingsguard to break their vows and marry, the last one who was unwise enough got gelded and send to the wall” ah, she had heard the story

"He was a knight from House Strong..." Ser Lucamore or Ser Harwin, one might have been the lover of Rhaenyra Targaryen and was a gold cloak, and the other one served under the first King Jaehaerys. She was not precisely sure of which, as Alva preferred the story of another Kingsguard "Aemon the Dragonknight... he was the true love of Queen Naerys "
"He allowed their brother to rape her, " there was bitterness in his voice, the first time she heard him use that tone. " What kind of brother would allow it? Just stand outside as the king harms his own sister, the queen, who he is also supposed to protect.
"Some vows should be broken..." just like the ones who would not allow them to marry.

Jaime stayed silent for a moment. "Yes...but some men hold too stubbornly to them. " Oh, her beloved knight may reconsider it .

She smiled, maybe they could be together after all . "I love you so much, Jaime. I could be your wife, and give you children..."

"Maybe you should go to sleep, " the knight suggested. She did feel tired, of course. Poor Jaime needed to sleep and maybe think about how happy they would be together if they married...

"Alva, are you insane?" Alric yelled at her the next morning, when she proposed her idea. " Arm the Kingslayer? It would be faster to simply stab all the guards and then myself!"

Not even having his favorite breakfast helped him. Oatmeal with berries were not that good in her opinion, but the cook made it as if her brother was not in the best mood lately.

"I just thought that, if the Iron Born attack, we would need every man..." defending the small folk who would need to take refuge in their castle would also need protection. " And he is a Kingsguard after all.”

"Absolutely not!" the boy grumbled. He was in a bad mood since their granduncle, Lord Manderly, had forbidden him from joining the other men who were helping at Torrhen's Square. Her little brother longed to prove himself and was even still using his helmet, which had owl-like wings on both sides, but was ordered to stay there. Alva was glad about that, as the march was long and treacherous, not to mention he had never been in an actual fight.

"Lord Alric, while your sister's proposal is dangerous, you should keep it in mind if we go under siege, " the maester at least gave her idea some credit. "Theon Greyjoy used to be one of King Robb's close friends and grew up in Winterfell, there is a chance he knows that the Kingslayer is here.”

"I know..." they had seen the squid a couple of times. Their mother, also being Iron Born, was asked by Lord Eddard for some advice to help the boy adapt when he was first brought to Winterfell as a ward. And now there he was, raving the land that had welcomed him.

Their castle wasn't as close to the shore as White Harbour, but was smaller and would be easier to take, and would be a target if they knew they had Jaime with them...but Torrhen's Square was on the opposite side of the map. Still, I with how bold the squids were, who knew if they would dare to attack a castle that was so inland.

"You could always teach me how to fight then. I still have the knife my mother gave me " but did not know how to use it, of course.

"Alva, they would kidnap you before you could even draw it out. And that knife is too small, a sword like Lightwarden is better!" Alric was very proud of the longsword that Dravor had given him for his tenth name day, and while good enough to use it, he had no real experience fighting. He pulled it out to show it off.

"Alric, remember it's rude to bring out weapons on the table, " Alva reminded him . She was the elder one after all.

“Women are no fun” he complained. The boy went back to eating. Well, he still would have to marry a woman, so he better start to think otherwise.

“But your sister is right “the maester was indeed a wise man.

The cook brought out some lemon cakes, her favorite dessert “I think I will save mine for later “Alva did want to eat them, but poor Jaime deserved some sweets. She would take them to him at night.

Chapter Text

“I love you so much, Jaime. I could be your wife, and give you children…” the poor foolish thing, she loved a version of himself that didn’t exist. Jaime felt guilty for using her the way he was doing, but he had few options.

Maybe she would have a bastard in her belly soon enough, what a payment for holding her or the lordling hostage as soon as he had a sword. The little fool had told him, all wide-eyed innocence, that there were not many men in the castle. Foolish girl. She did not realize what that meant for her or her brother. Jaime’s hand itched for a sword—not for their sake, but his own. Without a blade, he was just another prisoner. With one, he could take one of the siblings and force them to give him a horse and carry either of them off, perhaps the girl, she would be easier to manage…. The girl trusted him too much. A knight would protect her, she thought. He did not know the north well enough, he would need to demand an escort, holding a sword against the poor thing’s neck and have her guards take him to the nearest port, make sure he got on a boat- He could almost see her tears as he dragged her away, see the fear in her eyes..

Maybe he would throw her off the ship as soon as they were distant enough. Could she even swim? Well, she better…. but why did he feel it would be too cruel on his part? If she survived, maybe she’d hate him enough to grow wise.

By the Seven, he was fucking her to remember Cersei in the first place…and that made him feel disgusting, almost as Robert. His sister complained that he wished for a dead northern girl, the she-wolf who Rhaegar had kidnapped…and there he was, Jaime wishing for his sister, while fucking a northern girl. A girl who had asked him to protect her if her home was attacked. A girl whose brother he had killed, and she begged for his forgiveness.

He drank the bottles she had left. Had the little fool not spilled the wine on herself, he would not be in that position. So, maybe he should get rid of the wine. And now he was thinking like Tyrion, gods, he also missed his little brother. He drank the two bottles…but the guilt wouldn’t wash away.

The room swayed as he stood, the wine had been quite stong. His head throbbed with the weight of his thoughts. Luckily, the maid had drawn him a bath, he just hadn’t bothered to take it yet. He wasn’t sure of how much time he spend on the tub…just that he woke up when he heard the girl calling for him.

“Jaime?” Right on time, there she was. Surprisingly, the water was still hot.

“It’s already the hour of the bat, little wench?” He asked, and the girl blushed. That amused Jaime “I have been fucking your sweet cunt for a while, why are you so shy now?”

“I…” she hadn’t seen him fully naked, he always fucked her from behind of course. Jaime pulled Alva by her arm.

“The water is still hot… Why don’t you join me? “it was less a question and more of an order

“I-I brought you your dinner, and some lemon cakes too, maybe you should eat first…” was she finally fearful? Gods, he didn’t know. With the girl, it could be genuine shyness.

“I’m not hungry…and that’s your dinner, remember?” The girl kept bringing him his food, eating only his. He was drunk after all that wine…and wasn’t thinking well “come on now my little wench, strip and join me “

Of course, the girl did end up obeying. She stripped awkwardly, fumbling with the ties of her nightgown, her movements shier than all the other times. She slipped into the tub,which couldn’t fit both of them,sitting on his lap, facing him. He cursed on his mind: he would not be able to imagine Cersei.

“My brother said he can’t give you a sword, unless we are under siege…” gods, of course. The boy lord wouldn’t be so foolish.

“Well, let‘s hope the Iron Born are kind enough to give me time to arm myself when they come “he could really not blame the boy, his guards would not be enough to hold him back if he had his sword. The only reason he had not tried to escape was because he lacked one...

“I’m sorry, he is stubborn…” what a little fool…she gently pet his face with her soft hands and smiled like the idiot she was “I’m so happy to have you with me, I could not feel safer with anyone else” gods, what a little fool.

“I’m the Kingslayer, Alva, have you forgotten?” Most northerns would make sure he remembered it very well. She instead would speak fondly to him and get him anything he longed for “even if Aerys was evil, I made a vow. Is that not what your parents told you?” She had said as much.

“Why is it wrong to murder a man so evil?” Yet, she only called the Mad King evil because of her love to him “he was the same man who murdered Lord Rickard Stark and his son.”

Jaime knew she was right, but for wrong reasons. Why not give her one more of his stories? She was fond of them after all…

“You know, I was there. I saw how they both died a slow death, agonizing because of the King’s cruelty…but that is not even his worst did “the knight explained. The girl was silent, listening “I told you what I thought of Aemon the Dragonknight, did I not?” He was too drunk to remember it.

Alva nodded “you told me you don’t get how he stood there and heard the king rape his sister…”

“I heard Aerys rape his wife, Queen Rhaella. Many times. She would cry and beg him to stop “he continued, Alva listened

“You killed him to protect her?” Poor girl, so naive

“I listened, just like the Dragonknight has. She had horrible scratches on her, the last morning after they were together…” but had been able to get away from him at the very least “I did not swear to protect the Queen from her Husband, sadly. I swore to protect him, and his secrets, not judge him“

The girl was silent “he deserved it…” she mumbled, and snuggled against him “even if that’s not why you killed him.

Jaime gently grabbed her face with his right hand “Oh, but I’m sure you are curious to know why I did it “ let her hear. The girl nodded. 

“During Robert’s Rebellion” the gods be good, she was born during it for sure, and he had been her age. “a lot of Hands came and went. Most of them aren’t even worth to recall. But Lord Chelsted…he is worth to remember.”

“I have never heard that name…” the girl admitted 

“It’s no wonder “who would even remember the poor idiot? ”I'd thought the man craven, but the day he confronted Aerys he found some courage somewhere. He did all he could to dissuade him. He reasoned, he jested, he threatened, and finally he begged. When that failed, he took off his chain of office and flung it down on the floor. Aerys burnt him alive for that, and hung his chain about the neck of Rossart, his favorite pyromancer. The man who had cooked Lord Rickard Stark in his own armor. And all the time, I stood by the foot of the Iron Throne in my white plate, still as a corpse, guarding my liege and all his sweet secrets.” He could remember it as if it was yesterday. Those memories…they just never went away

The girl listened quietly listened “cooked…” she mumbled, it seemed that northerns didn’t know how their former lord paramount had died “why…why did Aerys kill his Hand?”

” Why? Quite simple, the man was not an idiot: His Grace commanded his alchemists to place caches of wildfire all over King’s Landing. And Chelsten dared to oppose….” At least he died a brave man’s death. Even drunk, he could recall it, it never went away “Rossart is the other Hand worth remembering. My Sworn Brothers were all away, you see, but Aerys liked to keep me close. I was my father's son, so he did not trust me. He wanted me where Varys could watch me, day and night. So I heard it all” by the Seven, why was he telling that to the child in the first place ? “ I can still remember how Rossart's eyes would shine when he unrolled his maps to show where the substance must be placed. Garigus and Belis were the same. Rhaegar met Robert on the Trident, and you know what happened there. When the word reached court, Aerys packed the queen off to Dragonstone with Prince Viserys. Princess Elia would have gone as well, but he forbade it. Somehow he had gotten it in his head that Prince Lewyn must have betrayed Rhaegar on the Trident, but he thought he could keep Dome loyal so long as he kept Elia and Aegon by his side. The traitors want my city, I heard him tell Rossart, but I'll give them naught but ashes. Let Robert be king over charred bones and cooked meat. The Targaryens never bury their dead, they burn them. Aerys meant to have the greatest funeral pyre of them all. Though if truth be told, I do not believe he truly expected to die. Like Aerion Brightfire before him, Aerys thought the fire would transform him... that he would rise again, reborn as a dragon, and turn all his enemies to ash.

"Ned Stark was racing south with Robert's van, but my father's forces reached the city first. Pycelle convinced the king that his Warden of the West had come to defend him, so he opened the gates. The one time he should have heeded Varys, and he ignored him. My father had held back from the war, brooding on all the wrongs Aerys had done him and determined that House Lannister should be on the winning side. The Trident decided him.

"It fell to me to hold the Red Keep, but I knew we were lost. I sent to Aerys asking his leave to make terms. My man came back with a royal command. 'Bring me your father's head, if you are no traitor.' Aerys would have no yielding. Lord Rossart was with him, my messenger said. I knew what that meant.”

“Y-your own father?” Killing the King was not wrong in her eyes, but it seemed that kinslaying was a different matter. 

"As you hear, my little wench…. but even if he was not my father, was I supposed to let the city burn?” And that won him the hatred of so many…”When I came on Rossart, he was dressed as a common man-at-arms, hurrying to a postern gate. I slew him first. Then I slew Aerys, before he could find someone else to carry his message to the pyromancers. Days later, I hunted down the others and slew them as well. Belis offered me gold, and Garigus wept for mercy. Well, a sword's more merciful than fire, but I don't think Garigus much appreciated the kindness I showed him."

As he finished, the girl kissed him “you really are a hero, Ser Jaime” Alva smiled softly.

Jaime took her again right there, and to his own surprise, did not think of Cersei. A girl who insisted he was a true knight…he wasn’t even sure of when they ended up on his bed, the tired little thing sleeping against his chest. She looked soft, too naive for her own good…he tenderly kissed her forehead after standing up, hoping she wouldn’t wake up.

He was starving…and the girl had brought him lemon cakes, after all. It would not be good to let them go to waste.

Chapter Text

Terrible news arrived by raven a few days later: Theon Greyjoy had taken Winterfell. Quite strange, as the castle was inland, more so than most castles. No one had expected the Iron Born to be so daring...

"We should offer the Kingslayer to him in exchange for Bran Stark and little Rickon!" Alric wanted to write the letter to Winterfell, but the maester had to stop him.

Alva felt her stomach twisting. The poor children, the Stark boys were innocent... but he couldn't let the Squid have Jaime. Still, if she spoke against it, her brother would not be pleased.

Still, Alva felt bad for the Stark children. Bran couldn't even walk after his unfortunate fall, and Rickon was just a baby, who was still drinking milk from Lady Catelyn's breast the last time they had seen the Starks. The poor Frey Children and the Reeds were also there, not to mention the servants.

She would go to pray for them on the Weirdwood tree. Pray that the children would be okay, that maybe Theon Greyjoy would find some goodness in his heart and let them go... her mother had been an Iron Born too, and she was good. Greyjoy had dined at the Starks' table. When Lord Eddard traveled, the boy would go with them. And yet, the Squid dared to do such a thing.

A week passed: the Stark boys, the wards, the servants and the sons of Lord Reed remained as hostages. Alric grew impatient, wanting to go march to set the children free. Alva felt horrible, she would barely hold her meals from the stress. She ended up finding that all she could eat was the soups meant for Jaime.

Jaime... she loved him so much. Alva was sure he had kissed her forehead one time when she wasn't deeply sleeping... oh, how she would love to be his wife...

"M'lady, when did you have your last moon blood?" She heard Sara ask her once.

"Oh... I can't remember. " Now that Alva thought of it, her moon blood had not arrived late ever. " It’s stress, just that . " What else could it be?

Alva wanted to finish boarding the lion for Jaime, but she would feel too tired. Even when they were together, she would go to sleep after they were done and would merely be able to talk with him. Her golden knight even had to wake her up a couple of times as she nearly overslept.

"Little wench, are you sure you are feeling alright?" Jaime had tried to get her to eat some of the food she had brought, but she had rejected it. Just the stress, she had insisted. Yet the smell of the venison pie was too much for her....

"Alva, maybe you should let Maester William see if you are alright. " A week later, she had to excuse herself from the table as she felt too tired, and her little brother followed her to her room.

"Alric, I'm fine, just tired..." and worried that he would find her needlework. " Please just leave. " Her head felt dizzy, she wanted to sleep...

"We...we could go ride our horses tomorrow, maybe you just need to get out. " Alric believed that perhaps she was worried about the Stark children, his sister had a very kind and weak heart...she looked paler than usual, and didn’t want to eat lemon cakes.

“Yes, perhaps…” but she felt she wouldn’t even be able to get on her horse in the first place.

Worse news arrived that very evening: Bran Stark and baby Rickon were dead. They were just children, baby Rickon reminded Alva of Alric when he was a babe. Bran Stark would enjoy climbing on their castle the times the Starks visited, much to his lady mother’s worry. The boy had been more of a squirrel than a child, back when he could climb. Alric tried to go with him one time they were visiting Winterfell, but Alva and Dravor pulled him back as they were afraid he would fall.

Alva found herself crying a lot because of the dead children. Everyone in the castle mourned the princes, of course, but she would cry as if they had been her own brothers. That news had just hit her very badly, why didn’t the gods spare the young Starks?

She still tried to finish her needlework. It was harder, of course, due to the bandages in her hands. They hadn’t healed completely yet, the maester said that she would only need them for one more fortnight. Alva still felt horrible for having tried to burn her crown…Jaime had understood her, at least, and accepted her apology. She hid her needlework under her crown when she heard the knocking, but didn't have time to put it elsewhere, leaving it on her own bed. Sara was there with the dinner.

“M’lady, I can bring the Kingslayer his dinner, if you don’t feel all right “the maid insisted. Onion broth….it seemed to have carrots and meat. The smell bothered her, but so did the hen with prunes and chestnuts “you should eat with lord Alric “the siblings hadn’t dinned together in a while…usually they would dine with Dravor and father, they didn’t feel like doing it ever since they both went south, especially since Dravor died…

“It’s alright, I can do it “Alva insisted. The maid left, but she couldn’t dare to finish the broth. Or even touch it. She tried to clean her face as much as she could, Jaime wouldn’t want to see her sad….

But he noticed, unfortunately “why the long face, little wench?”

And thus, she started to cry again.

Chapter Text

The little fool had been growing paler and paler for the last weeks. Jaime had noticed, of course. She was less enthusiastic about her kisses, would barely moan or whimper when he took her. The knight got concerned.

“What troubles you, Alva?” He asked, as the girl laid against him to rest. Gods, why would he even care? To think his plan of escaping would be easier with the girl in such a state…of course, he did not have a sword.

“Winterfell…the Squids took Winterfell “the little thing said it in such a pathetic and sad tone that he couldn’t bring himself to smile “they took the little Starks boys and their servants as hostages.”

“How unfortunate…” was the best he could manage to say. The girl hugged him tightly, sobbing. He was not sure of how to bring her more comfort, all he would do with Cersei in such cases was to fuck her…which is exactly what he did with the girl, tho it didn’t seem to help much.

Was it even possible that worrying over the Young Wolf’s brothers kept her in such a dire condition? The girl’s skin was still too pale, and he got concerned enough to try to coax her into eating, one week after hearing about Stark’s misfortune.

“Little wench, are you sure you are feeling alright?” Gods, the house certainly couldn’t be so poor that they only ate well at night, couldn’t it? The Venison pie looked good, Jaime cut a piece for her “here, eat your dinner for once”

“The stress, it’s just that, ser “the girl insisted. He was no fool, something was wrong with the little freckled thing.

He insisted. The girl tried it, but even chewing seemed like too much of a task for her. Father above, what did the poor fool have?

She would ask less questions as well. The little idiot loved his stories. Whether it was because of her infatuation with him or genuine curiosity, Jaime didn’t mind sharing them with her, but the girl was not well. Did they even have a maester in the castle?

He found himself thinking of Cersei once again….and recalled having seen his sweet sister feeling all the same, at least four other times. The sickness was always the first sign, right after missing a moon blood. All those times, it turned out she had a babe on the way. She gave birth three squalling little things, and he made sure the one from Robert was cleansed.

But she had told him. Cersei was a woman grown. Alva was not. Would she even know it herself?

The girl arrived in a timely manner with his dinner. She would keep bringing it to him…. but this time, Alva’s soft face looked different: Her eyes were red, she had certainly been crying. Even if she tried to cover it up, it was obvious. The poor pitiful fool…

“Why the long face, little wench?” Jaime asked. The girl bawled and hugged him before she started to cry again. That was not a good sign.

“He…. he killed them...” she sobbed, burying her face in his chest. What was he supposed to do to make her feel better? “The Squid….he killed the Stark boys….”

He knew what would work with Cersei, what always worked. What he had done every time…. Jaime tried to undo her nightgown, untying the laces, and making the upper part fall, maybe they could….

“Little Rickon was just a baby” the girl spoke between sobs. Jaime’s own night clothes were wet with her tears “and Bran…Bran couldn’t even walk anymore, how would someone even think of hurting them?”

You have been fucking the man who made sure he wouldn’t walk Jaime thought, but didn’t say it out loud. She wouldn’t believe him anyways “crying won’t do anything, will it? It will not bring them back to life” he should just finish undressing them and fuck her, that would stop her crying. If she loved babes so much, it was almost certain that he had put one on her belly already…

But she kept crying. Even after his scold, usually she would do whatever he told her “only children…he put their heads on the wall…. the letter….only children” her cries could draw unwanted attention….

And Jaime couldn’t help but feel bad for the sobbing girl. Were the Starks so beloved that they deserved that many tears? He didn’t know…he possibly made their lady mother cry as much or worse after pushing Bran Stark off that window.

“Little wench…. maybe you should rest, all right?” Fucking her would do no good. Neither would be to ask her about her moonblood, it was possible she couldn’t even remember it in the first place.

Jaime helped her to walk. As he had undone her clothes, he could peek at her cute, freckled breasts…but she kept crying and sobbing. He didn’t know if she had cried as much for the brother that his sword had cut…He would rather not give it much thought, trying to console her about some boys that weren’t even her brothers was hard enough.

He laid her on the bed, and the girl snuggled against him “don’t leave me, please, Jaime…” he softly pet her hair.

“I’m right here…” if he, Tyrion, or Cersei were to die, would their vassals cry as much as the little fool was crying? The girl looked at him, soft blue eyes full of tears. He gave her a kiss on her forehead, much to his own surprise, he had not drunk any wine yet “sleep, all right? Think of something else, just go away inside…” he had done that too many times “you still have your little brother, don’t you? Your castle…think of them, don’t think of the dead…”

“I love you…” she mumbled. He knew, Jaime had lost count of how many times he had heard her say it….”I want to think about you….”

“Then do it…but just stop crying, it will do you no good, little wench” Jaime held her softly. Gods, he should ask her to eat, ask her if she woke up with the need to throw up her food, or if she had bled ever since they had started to fuck.

But he just allowed her to slowly drift to sleep on his arms. She wanted a knight that would protect her, a knight that would help her on her worst days…and it seemed that, at least for that moment, Jaime was indeed the knight she had imagined.

Chapter Text

It was a fortune that Alva had left in tears when the maester read that the Stark boys were dead. He mourned for the boys, of course: Bran and Rickon were just children…. but he was not. He was three and ten, a man grown, and his grand uncle had finally understood that.

Alric would be able to march as a vassal of the Manderlys. Along with a dozen barges, each full of knights, there were also siege engines to help recapture Winterfell. He would be able to fight, and would bring half of his guards, along with some of the small folk that had remained behind. The new heir of Northlight Keep couldn’t be more excited. It would be his first battle!

And it was better if Alva didn’t know. She didn’t let him do anything fun. Once, when the Starks came to visit, Bran Stark was going to show him how to climb up their castle. Alva found out and went to tell Dravor….it was so unfair! He was older than Bran…and would always be now…. Alric wanted to help avenge him and baby Rickon.

But she would cry and beg him not to go: Alva still thought of him as a babe. Alric ordered the guards and his old master-of-arms to get ready, and the servants not to tell her anything. He was excited about finally using his winged helmet for a battle and trying out his sword.

They both had been done by their smith, and were gifts commissioned by Dravor. His older brother…. Alric missed him. And they had his killer, right there. He could remember that Alva had been in love with the Kingslayer, and his brother would tease her about him, claiming he could beat the lion. He wished that had been true.

And there he was, feeding the fucking Lannister. King Robb ordered them too. If it was up to him, Alric would have ordered to let him starve up in his cell. Worse of all, that was actually one of their rooms, as the stupid rules meant he deserved to have one. That and that Northlight Keep lacked a dungeon, usually criminals would be handed over to the Manderlys….

Alric was practicing against a fake opponent, angrily stabbing it with Lightwarden, imagining the Kingslayer’s smug face. Usually, he would practice against a guard, the master-at-arms, his brother. Never his father. Father was always busy. Maybe when he returned.

“My lord, you should dine, it would be better if you went to sleep early” the old master-at-arms suggested.

Right….” Alva is in her room?” The old man nodded. Good, he could eat alone, without having to worry about explaining why his men were getting ready.

The cook made him a stuffed hen, his favorite meal. The maids did treat him as a baby, unfortunately “just be careful, m’lord”. He hated it. In any case, he was more worried about Alva, who was clearly sick, even if she refused to admit it.

His horse was ready, they would depart to the White Harbor as soon as the sun rose. Then they would march to Winterfell with the rest of the Manderly vassals. Alric wished to fall asleep, he would need all his energy to fight the Iron Born….

But he could not enter a deep sleep. He would close his eyes but kept rolling in his sleep. Gods, how annoying. The hoots of the owls nearby were no help at all either. Why couldn’t he just sleep?

He could not lie to Alva…not for so long. Even if she cried, even if she begged for him to stay, he just could not disappear without telling her. Sure, the maester or any other servants would inform her, but….

Alric wanted to hug his big sister before leaving. He was no baby, of course. He was a man grown, already ten and three. But Alva was soft, and he was supposed to take care of her. Not the other way around, even if she disagreed. So, he went off to her room.

“Alva?” The boy knocked to no response. It was already the hour of the owl, so it was expected that she would be asleep. The door was unlocked, luckily, so he just went inside….

And his sister was nowhere to be seen. Where could she even be at that hour? Alric was worried, perhaps she finally went to the maester? Maybe he should go look for her…

“HOOT” the boy heard an owl and turned back. It sounded so close, and, as he realized, it was on the window near her bed.

“Shoo! You will scare Alva!” Gods be good, why was the bird so bold? The owl just stared at him.

“HOOT!” It said again. Ugh, the Others take the damn owl. He should focus on going to see if Alva was with their maester and hug her. They would be leaving in no time…

Alric went inside her bedroom to scare the annoying creature himself, and it calmly flew away. The nerve, just because their sigil was an owl, did not mean they were free to get inside their castle. As he passed near her bed, something, a shining object caught his eye.

The crown…” why does she still have this?” He mumbled. Alric knew the story, Dravor would tell it all the time when they played and promised that he would beat the Kingslayer to crown a pretty maid.

But well, it was hers. He should not bother her…. but maybe Alric should be kind enough to put it in her wardrobe. He saw red as soon as he moved the crown: her needlework had a lion. The Lannister’s lion.

“You idiot…” he said to no one in particular. Alric tried to breathe. She still was in love. In love with the man who killed their brother. It was unfortunately how the heart worked sometimes…. until he noticed the smell of an onion broth.

Now, for the Kingslayer, Alric had ordered that he be treated as a prisoner, no matter how good his cell was. They would give him a bowl that Alric had his guards bought from a small folk family, same with the spoon and his vase. But why did Alva have them there?

A chill ran through his spine…she could not…she wouldn’t…. He ran back to his bedroom. As the current lord of the castle, he had spare keys to all the rooms. He had Alva prepare the Kingslayer’s room, which was a woman’s job…The Others take him! He had made the guards stay outside.

“YOU TWO, GET UP HERE!” He yelled at the two guards outside, but they would be too slow to get on time. Alric had forgotten to grab his sword, but he paid it no mind, the sword was not as important at that moment.

He had no idea how he even guessed which was the right key: the future Nielsen lord opened the Kingslayer’s room, and found a sight that made him see red: his sister, fast asleep in the arms of the man who had killed their brother.

Alric did not know where he found the courage, nor the strength, but the pushed the Lannister with all his might “BACK AWAY FROM MY SISTER!” He angrily demanded as he grabbed the sleeping Alva from her arm and forced her to stand up but turned his gaze as soon as he realized she was naked as in her name day.

That only made his fury grow and his reason left his mind. Without a second thought, he jumped at the startled Kingslayer, who he had awoken, trying to hit him with his fists. His punches landed clumsily, but it did not matter... Alric was kindly paid back with a punch to his face by the older man, which managed to make him dizzy, and felt warm blood run across his lips. He would have fallen back, had his sister not grabbed him.

“JAIME, STOP” he heard Alva said. She called the Kingslayer by his name…he didn’t see where the lion was.

“The Kingslayer….” He tried to stand up, but his sister would not let him “you…. were together … I’m going to kill him.”

“Don’t be foolish, Maester William needs to see you!” He could hear his sister crying, and still felt the blood running from his lips.

Strangely, when he saw the Kingslayer, his face was that of a regretful man.

“Let me help you, little wench…” he dared to call her sister a wench? Alric tried to oppose as the Lannister held him so his sister could stand up.

Alric still found enough strength in him to force Alva out of the room, he had to protect his sister. “Stay there, Kingslayer” the boy growled, and made sure to lock the door. Gods, his sister had been an idiot…

Chapter Text

Alva woke up to the screams of her brother, who had unfortunately found her fast asleep in Jaime’s arms. Alric was a boy and made the foolish decision to try to fight the knight…. She managed to grab him before he fell.

“JAIME, STOP!” She loved her golden knight, but Alric was her little brother. She had to care for him, and the hit from her beloved had left him dizzy enough. Alva wasn’t sure if Jaime was going to hit him in once again, but she doubted her brother could handle more.

Alric was too heavy for her to hold. Even if she was still a head taller… “The Kingslayer….” Her brother mumbled, but Alva did not she was afraid he would fall and hurt himself again if he stood “you…. were together … I’m going to kill him.”

“Don’t be foolish, Maester William needs to see you!” She cried, blood was running from her brother’s lips. But she couldn’t stand up with him.

“Let me help you, little wench…” Jaime easily grabbed her little brother, as Alva stood up. Gods, he didn’t look very well…

She put her brother’s arm around her shoulder, as she and Dravor had done once when he hurt himself while they played in the snow. She could not even care to cover her chest, Alva just needed to take him to the maester as soon as possible.

Gods…she had to lock the door herself, least the guards hurt Jaime…Alva had not known her brother had another set of keys, which he had used to open the door “Stay there, Kingslayer” her brother mumbled.

Two of their guards arrived, tho they quickly diverted their sights “here, my lady. Cover yourself “one kindly offered his coat. Alva had nearly forgotten her breasts were exposed, the chill northern air suddenly reminding her of it. She gave her brother to the men before she put the coat around herself.

“What happened?” One of the guards asked. Unfortunately, Alric was well enough to answer.

“The Kingslayer…. he was with Alva…” gods be good.

“Seize him, let’s go fetch the horse gelder is awake…” one of the guards suggested, which scared the freckled girl.

“NO!” Alva yelled “JAIME DID NOT HARM ME!”

Both guards froze on their steps, “my lady, are you sure that “but she didn’t allow them to continue.

“The maester! Take Alric with the maester!” The girl insisted.

Maester William was luckily awake. Alva was worried, Alric was dizzy, saying nonsense and bleeding from his lips. The Maester first checked his head.

“I will have to clean your wound, my lord. I’m afraid Alric is in no position to travel with the rest, least the hit get worse” the maester went to prepare the vinegar for his wound.

“You were going to leave without telling me?” Alva asked angrily.

“You were with the Kingslayer” her brother mumbled and grabbed his head. “The others take him…Please tell Lord Manderly that I apologize…and let Benefren take charge of our men “their old Master-of-arms…Alva wanted to be angry at her little brother, but he was hurt.

“Will Alric be alright?” Alva was worried about him.

“Yes, but he won’t travel just as a precaution, I would rather be able to watch him and let him rest. A blow to the head can be dangerous” the maester brought a clean cloth and pressed it against her brother’s lips. Alric whined.

“Shh, let the maester treat you” Alva tried to hold her brother’s hand, but he harshly moved it away.

“He killed Dravor…” her brother mumbled angrily. The maester then cleaned his wound with the vinegar he had prepared. He then applied honey paste to the wound.

“The split is luckily not too deep, so it will not require stitches. Your eye might swell, so hold this “the maester spoke calmly, ignoring the bickering siblings, and gave the young boy a cold cloth to hold onto his left eye. Poor Alric…his eye was nearly closing too, she had not noticed it before. “You will need to apply it frequently for the next day or two, but it should go away in less than a fortnight. He then turned to look at her “And my lady, I’m sorry, but I will have to examine you.”

“Me? Why, maester? “The puzzled freckled girl asked “Jaime did not force himself on me, not today, or before “she hoped they stopped believing that.

“You show symptoms of sickness” the maester seemed to be thinking of something, she was confused “forgive me for intruding, and perhaps lord Alric might not want to hear this…when was the last time you had your moon blood?”

Alva tried to recall. It was supposed to have arrived more than a fortnight ago. Right when the Squid had taken over Winterfell…”it…did not arrive this month, in afraid “had it arrived the one before? She could no longer remember.

“Why does that matter?” Alric asked, puzzled.

“My lord, rest a bit. I need to examine your lady sister” the maester asked a guard to fetch two servants, one to look after Alric, and one to accompany him and Alva to her chambers.

His other questions were even more strange. The maid brought some mint tea for both, as he asked. If her breasts felt strange. Alva blushed, but admitted they felt weirdly full. He asked if she would need to vomit in the mornings, which were a symptom of sickness. She relented and admitted she had.

The maester asked if he could feel her belly for a moment. A puzzled Alva allowed it, and noticed the maid was pale as milk. The maester looked at the maid once he was done.

“She is with child, isn’t she?” The maid asked. The maester sighed and nodded.

“My lady, rest. I will talk with your brother “the maester and the maid left her in her room.

Alva should feel scared. She should feel worried. She should maybe break down and cry. But she was happy. Happy that the gods had, for once, listened to her. Happy that she was going to have a child by Jaime. Oh, how she longed to tell him…. but when she went to try to get out, Alva found that the door was locked, much to her puzzlement.

Chapter Text

Alric had been led to his room by the maid. He could not distinguish quite well which of them, due to his swollen eye. The boy held the cloth too closely. The maid helped him lay on the bed.

"M'lord, maybe I could bring you some warm cider , " that voice... Sara. She was the one who had to bring the Kingslayer's food... he be thrice damned, Alric was an idiot: Alva had put her in charge! Of the maids, she was the youngest and had not been in their service when they went to Lannisport ten years ago.

"Sara... why was the Kingslayer's food in my sister's bedroom?" He asked as calmly as he could. Alric did not want to yell at the maid.

"She was the one who would bring him his suppers, m'lord. Just like the Southrons are used to do, " his sister could have used her mind to do better things than plot to be alone with the man who took their older brother from them. Even worse, lying like that to poor Sara. His father would probably dismiss the poor maid... he would make sure that wouldn't happen, Sara did not do anything wrong. That had, unfortunately, been Alva's actions. And the Kingslayer. Yet Alric still could not understand why the Maester wanted to check his sister.

From his window, he watched old Benefren get their few men ready. That should have been him. He even had his winged helmet in his room, next to Lightwarden. Alric tried to sleep it off.

He woke up in pain, of course. Alric went over to have his breakfast. Maybe he should ignore Alva... the problem was that she was not even there to be ignored. Maester William was, however, waiting for him.

"How is my sister?" gods, was she so sick that he had to make her rest? Alric blamed the Kingslayer, for the simple reason of existing. Maybe he brought some strange Southron disease...

"My lord, I'm sorry: she is with child, " the maester spoke softly. The boy felt a cold shiver.

"Pregnant?" That's what it meant, right?

"She might be one or two months along, " his poor sister...

Alva would be happy, sadly. He knew it. She loved the Kingslayer, even called him by his stupid real name.

"The good news is that it means the moon tea will not harm her as much, " he had not heard everything else the Maester said.

"Moon tea?" Alric asked, he did not know what that was.

"It's a mix of tansy, mint, wormwood, honey, and pennyroyal, " the maester explained. Alric hated that it sounded as if he was talking to a child. He was a man grown.

"And what is it for?" The boy inquired, as the cook brought his breakfast. Oatmeal and berries, it was the best food a man could ask for.

"The main purpose of the tea is to abort a pregnancy, the child will be gone as soon as she drinks it." Well, it was the Kingslayer's child, but....

"Alva won't want to get rid of the baby, " so he wouldn't have her go through it. His sister had too soft heart "you said it will not harm her as much...can it harm her?"

"My lord, unfortunately, this is not about what she wants. You do not have to let her know, pregnancies are lost all the time. If the tea is slipped into her drink..." but Alric interrupted the maester

"Can it harm her?" He asked again.

The maester hesitated "there is a chance it might. It's rare, but some women have been known to have adverse effects, and bleed to dead after consuming it. "

"I won't give it to my sister, " and he thought of something else "neither will you, or anyone.” “

"My lord, your father..." yet again, Alric interrupted.

"It is in the south, fighting with King Robb. I am the lord of Nightlight Keep, " Alric made sure to remind the maester of that.

"Her honor will be stained. Finding a husband willing to want to marry her after being sullied by the Kingslayer will be hard enough, though maybe the guards and the maids won't speak, " the maester continued "if she births the child, no one will want her. A baby is harder to hide than a pregnancy. You must-"

"I must prepare a wedding, then “why was only her sister the one who had to be punished? The Kingslayer broke his vows more than once. He should do the right thing and marry her.

"My lord, you are being unreasonable,” the maester sighed. " To whom will you marry her?"

"My sister has a soft heart, you know it. If Alva loses the baby, I'm afraid she could harm herself..." and it sounded as if the maester had told Alva, it was his fault anyways. That's what Alric would insist on telling their lord father. "Fetch me a raven, I need to write to White Harbour: Alva shall wed the baby's father.”

"I don't think Lord Manderly will grant his permission for such a thing, " the maester opposed. " And King Robb-"

"Who said I would be asking for permission?" It was better to apologize. And being busy with the retaking of Winterfell, he would not send someone to stop it. " And tell the maids I need a seamstress who can make a coat, red and gold. Perhaps someone from the smallfolk can do it. In a week if it's possible. I will pay with gold, fat chickens, and flour. "

"You cannot be serious, my lord, " the maester still thought of him as a boy. It was fun for Alric, seeing that Maester William had only been serving them for around four years, ever since Maester Pate died of old age. " The Kingslayer will not agree, his vows-"

"He is called the Kingslayer, " Dravor would tease their sister about it. He knew very well why he had that nickname. Alric held no love for him, of course. He would rather geld him, risking the wrath of King Robb and the Iron Throne. He could take ghe Black if needed. But his sister needed a husband, and who better than the man who had sullied her honor? "I will speak with him tonight, " it was a risky idea, Alric was not dumb. But he had an idea, and much like his sister, he could be stubborn. Still, he did not let her come out just yet. He had Sara bring Alva her food and stay with her in the room.

Alric ordered a good meal for the Kingslayer. The cook made beans and bacon at his request, as well as stewed plums, and spiced wine to wash it down. Just in case, he asked for wooden spoons: he was not taking the chance of giving Jaime Lannister anything made of metal.

Alric went to fetch his armor. He needed to look like the man of the castle, which he was. His armor was a purple and had his family's white owl on the chest. The heir of Northlight Keep put on his winged helmet: he had to protect his sister's honor. Alric made sure to leave his sword and his knife behind, just in case.

Two of the guards that had stayed behind helped him to carry the meals.

"No matter what, don't get inside unless I order you to,” Alric told the guards, “Even if you hear me curse. "

The guards went in with him, setting the plates on the desk, while the Kingslayer seemed to have gone to take the bath the new maid had prepared for him. For once, he didn't wish he would drown. He should have noticed there were two chairs before, but the first time he was in that room with the Kingslayer, the boy simply wanted to get out as fast as possible. Alric sat down to wait for his future good-brother to join him for dinner, and the guards left the room.

Chapter Text

The girl had been peacefully sleeping on his arms that night. Jaime did not realize when, but he recalled setting his hands over her stomach at some point. His child could be growing inside her…and she was barely one herself. Maybe she was simply sick, the stress could be getting to her.

That’s what he told himself, so he could actually go to sleep. That was until someone rudely woke them. The knight had to admit that it came to a surprise as he fell from the bed, and he wasn’t even entirely awake when he felt soft yet vicious punches. His instinct had been to return the favor to his assailant by punching him with as much strength as possible.

Jaime had thought of choking whoever had dared to wake them up like that, and worried as the girl had been dragged away from his arms. His opponent nearly fell…and then he heard the little wench cry. It turn out the assailant had been the boy lord, who was now bleeding from his lips.

“JAIME, STOP” she cried, soft blue eyes full of tears as he held her brother in her arms. Her freckled face was wet, and for a moment, he feared that he had taken yet another one of her brothers.

“The Kingslayer….” The boy lord was still breathing, but his sister would not let him stand up “you…. were together … I’m going to kill him.”

“Don’t be foolish, Maester William needs to see you!” Jaime had split the boy’s lips open, and his left eye would surely be purple soon. The little wench was right, but lacked the strength to hold him. Alva had suffered too much already, for him to also take her younger brother.

“Let me help you, little wench…” he gently held the boy so his sister could stand up. The girl walked away with her brother, but still locked the room. Maybe some sense had finally been knocked into her head….
Although, he had killed the little wench’s older brother already, what was one less sibling?

A lot…Jaime had attacked Lord Stark after hearing that Tyrion had been taken hostage by his lady wife. Lady Stark had dared to kidnap his little brother…because of his own fault. He doubted that Alva would ever change her mind, however.

Jaime washed himself and put back his clothes after drying. He would rather not walk naked to his bed, he felt that the cold air was enough to freeze his balls, and doubted he would have the sweet girl to warm them.

Jaime did not expect to find yet another of the Nielsen’s in his bedroom, much less the lordling he had punched. The boy’s left eye had purple edges, a perfect match for his clothes. He had no reason to hold any love for him, and that was without mentioning that Jaime had also stabbed his older brother in the stomach and put a babe in his sister’s.

“What do you want, my lord?” Jaime asked as he sat down on the chair. It seemed he had the same bad habits as his sister, tho the boy would at least bring his own food. The beans and bacon did look good enough….

“It’s simple, Kingslayer “the boy had brought wooden spoons for both of them. He wore his house’s colors in his armor, and a helmet with wings on their side “I want you to marry my sister “

What a bold statement for a child who had to dress up in armor to feel like a man “let me guess, the little wench is pregnant.”

The boy glared at him “stop calling Alva a wench!”

“I’m sorry, my lord “he mocked the boy lord “my lover is pregnant” Jaime had not referred to the girl like that before, and if he was honest, he was glad she was out of earshot at the moment

“The Others take you and all your k- “the boy shut his mouth, he possibly realized that was not the best insult at the moment “yes, my sister is carrying your child “

“Took your maester long enough to figure it out “of course, he had no way of sending for the man, there in his cell “the poor thing had been growing pale for a while, always so tired…it was rude from you to wake her up at such an hour, especially after the news about the little Starks”

“Did Alva tell you?” The boy sounded disappointed “she has a soft heart…yet she fell for you, Lannister. And you will take her as a wife “

“In case you forgot, my lord, I’m a Kingsguard “both the girl and the boy were fools, but of different kinds. Jaime got a spoonful of beans and bacon “we do not marry, the last one who did get gelded and send to the Wall. I’m already too close to it for my own comfort and would rather remain intact “and his sister and the boy’s would agree.

“You killed the King you swore to protect “that part was not wrong, Jaime knew it “and your vows demanded you remained celibate, yet…yet my sister is going to have your child “

“I will see that the child is well fed and raised in Casterly Rock, if it troubles you so much “and the babe would not lack luxuries, that was for sure.

“What about Alva?” the boy inquired.

“My father can see her married to one of my cousins, if I kindly ask him” knowing him, Jaime knew he would rather have such a lowborn good daughter, as long as he was the heir once again. She was still nobility, unlike Tyrion’s wife…Of course, the boy did not have to know it.

“No, you fathered the baby!” The boy could not hide what he really was, even if he tried to remain calm. He was not even trying his food “tell me, Kingslayer, which gods do you obey? Which gods heard your Kingsguard vows ?”

“The Seven” Jaime looked at the boy: his younger cousins were nearly his age, yet this one had to act as the ruler of the castle.

“Yet, we are in the north. Maybe my lady grandmother would disapprove, but the Seven hold no power here. You swore to your gods…but not ours. Marriage vows and those of the Night Watch are the only ones that both old and new gods respect “the boy smirked.

That was his plan? Have him wed the little wench in front of a tree ? “And how are you going to make me say the words?”

“I…will hold a sword at you…. you will wed Alva or…I will cut your sword hand!” It seemed that he had not thought of a threat. He was bold, but still a child.

“The Young Wolf will not allow that, my lord, and you know it “and Jaime knew it too well, or else he would already have lost his head “don’t make threats you are not prepared to carry out, only a fool does it “

The boy lord was not happy “you need to marry her! I don’t want to give her the moon tea, or take her babe as soon as it is born “

“You would rather have her marry the man who killed your brother?” That should be the end of it.

“Curse you, Kingslayer!” The boy protested, but did not deny it “you…you have seen her, haven’t you? If something happens to the baby…I already lost my brother because of you, I don’t want to lose her too.”

Jaime had to concede that; the freckled foolish girl would probably throw herself from a window if their child was lost. Their child…he had sired three babes on his dear sister, but they weren’t his sons or his daughter, they were Robert’s.

“And why is one of my cousins not good enough? Your sister will be wed, and the babe will be provided for” the child was stubborn, no doubt.

The boy hesitated “I’m the lord of the castle, since my father is south. The maester will not dare to give her the moon tea, at least not yet” his little soft blue eyes looked away “we have crows born in Riverrun, they arrived some moons ago. Every castle sworn to King Robb has one now, but Riverrun does not have a crow for all the northern houses. My maester can write a letter without me knowing…he probably is doing it as we speak, or possibly already did so. The crow might take a week or so to get to Riverrun, and the crow that will make it to White Harbor would take the same time and would arrive here the same day.”

Perhaps he judged the boy wrong. Jaime let him continue, see what point the child would try to make.

“My father…I don’t know him as much as I knew Dravor, or as much as I know Alva. But you killed my brother, he has as little love for you as I do…. He will not be happy, and will order the maester to give her the moon tea. He is our lord father, and he can decide for her, as she is under his protection, unless….” Jaime had to concede that helping his sister seemed to have awoken a fierce resolution on the boy.

“Unless she has a husband” Jaime finished his sentence. If they wed, then their Lord Father would no longer have a voice on any matter related to the girl, as she would be under his house’s protection, not her own anymore. Since the boy was the heir, the owls would be able to keep him as the wolves’ prisoner regardless.

“Please…marry her. What do vows even mean to you, ser?” The boy was too daring for his own good.

Jaime almost laughed at the absurdity of it. Vows. What were they, really, but words spoken to the wind? He had sworn them at six and ten. That, of course, he would not tell the boy.

“And you expect me to uphold my marriage vows?” Jaime knew very well that, if even he did wed her, that he would find a way to sleep with his sweet sister. For her, he had never needed a wedding or vows.

“You already consummated the marriage…I know how that works “the child lord blushed “I don’t care if you cheat on Alva with a whore, I’m sure she will ignore it, I just need you to be her husband.”

Jaime looked at the child lord in front of him: his split lip, which was forcing him to only chew with one side of his mouth, and the bruised eye should have warned him against going there again, much less alone. His armor was possibly too heavy for him, and the winged helmet would slightly sway to the sides every time he moved. They ate with wooden spoons, as the boy was scared enough to not have any metal near his reach. Yet Alric Nielsen was the man of the castle and decided to ignore whatever little sense he had in order to defend his sister.

He could not blame him for that. Jaime would die for Tyrion. He would die for Cersei. He took another spoon full.

“How even do you northerns marry? Does the tree pray and ask for our vows?” All the marriages he had seen were done by a septon.

“Our guards will help me to explain it to you. We have the Heart Tree, and we can get enough witnesses. As soon as your cloak is done by the end of the week, you two will wed “the boy also tried his food, tho he had issues chewing “I already wrote to White Harbor to ask for some singers. I said we will be having a wedding but forgot to include the names of the bride and the groom who will be getting married. Our grand uncle will be unfortunately too busy to attend, no doubt.”

The Kingsguard couldn’t help but smile at such a daring boy. It seemed that certain boldness ran through the family. He wondered if the brother had had killed had been like that ““Tell me, my lord, when did I agree to marry your freckled sister?”” Jaime had not yet agreed to it.

“Will you marry my sister?” Soft blue eyes stared at him, as their owner took another spoonful of his dinner.

A small part of him wanted to tell the boy no, if only to see whether he’d really cut his sword hand off. But he could picture the blonde girl crying, with her eyes fool of tears as last night, and her red blood soaking her tights, as she marched to the tallest tower she could find…if that happened, he would just pay it no mind, try to forget about her…but she was still alive. Cersei was practically his wife, but they could not marry, as that was a right reserved only for the dragons, even if they were long gone.

Jaime smiled “I suppose I should atone for my wrongdoings “he grabbed his wine cup, to toast with his future good brother. The boy was smaller than he was, but taller than Tyrion, so he held it close enough for him to easily respond to the toast, as he would do with his brother “you can call me brother if you wish, my lord “he teased.

“I would rather pull my own tongue out, Kingslayer” what a rude boy.

Chapter Text

Alva had not been feeling well as of later: finding out what was making her sick did nothing to stop her from being tired. It did not stop her from throwing up every morning. It did not help her stop crying about every little thing, nor did it meant she could go back to eating as she was used to. But her comfort was knowing that she was going to give Jaime a baby. She hoped that their child would be as beautiful as their father...

“May I go speak with ser Jaime?” She no longer had to worry about their secret, and could freely tell the maid about their love“I need to tell him that I’m with child “

“I’m sorry, M’lady. Your brother told me not to let you out until he ordered it “Alric believed himself to be so old…but she was still confused, and worried about him, more than anything. Two days had passed, and she had to sleep next to Sara. That was indeed a southern tradition, but Alva didn't tell her, she doubted the maid would believe her again.

“May I at least speak with my brother?” She pleaded. Alric had been hurt during his fight with Jaime and she needed to make sure that he was alright.

“I will go ask him” the maid left and locked the door. Alva sighed, her poor golden knight probably felt so alone as she was whenever she would have to leave him.

Alva stayed alone, watching through the window. Unlike poor Jaime’s bedroom, hers faced the courtyard. Her brothers would usually practice there for hours, under the supervision of their Master-at-arms…she hoped old Benefren, and the rest of her men were alright. The Squids deserved to die, painfully and slowly, each one of them.

She felt tired, it seemed that the baby used a lot of her energy. Alva put her hand on her belly: she could recall when her mother had been pregnant with Alric, many years ago. Mother would always put a hand on her belly, and her brother would move if they spoke to him. But that was when her belly was huge, Alva’s was too small still. Yet, she hoped that soon she would feel her little child. She lay on the bed before closing her eyes to rest.

She heard a knock on her door. Why did they even bother, if it was locked anyways? “You may come in” Alva said politely.

It was Sara again, with her dinner…and behind her, was Alric. Her poor brother…his bruise at the very least was healing, as it had a more brownish color now. His lips looked a bit puffy and had a slight scab already.

“Alric! “The girl went to hug her little brother “Are you alright? Has maester William been taking care of you?” She was worried about his state, Jaime was very strong and, even if it was an accident, could have really hurt her brother.

“Yes, don’t worry about me” he did hug her back “how are you feeling? I…the maester told me…”

Oh, of course he had, Alric was the lord of the castle, even if he was still just a for her. “I’m still tired…and can’t eat anything without needing to vomit “even the smell could make her dizzy. Sara left their food. The plate was simple: a freshly baked loaf of bread for her, along with cheese and berries, and Alric had some venison soup. There were two vases of warm cider as well.

“I asked the maester what you could eat, and had the cook bake it. “Sara had put an extra chair for her table “I promise I will let you out tomorrow, I had to do something these last days…I spoke with the Kingslayer. Don’t worry, I have made sure that he is eating “

“His name is Jaime…” well, she no longer had to call him by that horrid nickname “how he is he? I want to tell him about our baby, please “

“I won’t call him like that “Alric pouted, tho he quickly regretted it as it seemed that made his lips hurt “I told the Kingslayer that you are pregnant….” Her brother sighed “and he will marry you.”

He will marry you.

Jaime will marry you.

Alva had been dreaming about that day ever since she first met Jaime in Lannisport. Her knight coming to ask for her hand in marriage, and the two of them saying their wedding views in front of the Weirdwood tree. And now it was going to come true…

“Alva? Alva….” Alric tried to catch her attention, the girl stared at her brother “you did it again “

“What did he say about the baby? Is he happy? I hope that we will have a boy, with his beautiful golden hair and- “she began to ramble, much to her brother’s dismay. Her golden knight, her Jaime, would surely be thrilled about the baby.

“I am making the preparations for the wedding, you can talk about the baby later “Alric stopped her “it will be at the end of the week. I suppose you could see the Kingslayer tomorrow…”

“His name is Jaime “Alva reminded her brother.

“I will not call him like that “the boy repeated, he had heard her the first time “Alva, I still don’t get why you even tolerate to be near him….”

“I love him, Alric. I always have” Alva answered, it was that simple, at least for her “I could always use the old maiden cloak that our father’s aunt used for her wedding “that had been many years ago, but the cloak still was beautiful.

“You are an idiot sometimes...” the boy did not understand her at all, unfortunately “how is your needlework going? The one with the Lannisters' lion.”

Right, her needlework! “How did you know about it?” Alva asked, she had tried to hide it before and went to retrieve it. It was nearly done, her forced time locked had at least given her some space to make sure it would be done soon.

“You need a better hiding spot than your bed “Alric rolled his eyes “I was looking for you to say goodbye, you know? Guess I will have to wait a bit for my first battle.”

“I think I just forgot…” she had been crying a lot that day “it’s nice, right? I want to give it to Jaime, but I’m not sure if the lion is good enough.” She had only seen them back in Lannisport, ten years ago. Alva could still tell remeber every detail, the red field behind it was beautiful... but she had to use white, as it was a color easier to hide.

“It’s yellow enough already, he will like it “the boy shrugged “it’s not fair, why the Kingslayer is to be my good brother? I would rather have King Robb as one. They say his direwolf is huge, I would like to pet it."

“Oh Alric, you are too silly “the girl chuckled “are you excited about being an uncle? Maybe I will let you play with the baby.”

“As long as the baby is not like his father “her brother grumbled “have you thought of any names yet? Just don’t name the lion cub after Dravor, that’s a name I want to use “

“Oh, I wanted to use that name too…” Alva sighed “but I guess it’s fair…” but she thought of something “how did you get Lord Manderly to approve the wedding?”

“I did not say who it was, and he is busy with the war affairs to mind it much. His men are also marching to retake Winterfell so he sadly won’t come but will lend us some musicians. I will go to speak with him after the wedding, when father writes to White Harbor. “His brother was just a kid himself…but was trying to act like a man. For her sake

 “Thank you so much, Alric.” Alva smiled at her brother, without him, her dream would not have come true.

“You are welcome, Alva…. Just eat, all right? And rest…you can go see the Kings…your betrothed in the morning “her brother insisted. She decided to listen “I will ask the cook to make a good breakfast so you can share it with him “

Both siblings dined together, for the first time in a while.

Chapter Text

Jaime had not expected his betrothed to join him for breakfast. Just as he had not expected to call the freckled little thing his betrothed, much less his wife. She had hugged him as the maid set their breakfasts

“Jaime, did you hear? You are going to be a father!” She told him, with a bright smile across her face. The girl could not be happier “I promise to give you a beautiful baby, and to be a very good wife to you.”

“I did” I am already a father, you foolish girl. Cersei has made me one three times, yet I did not get to marry her, or call any of the babes mine “are you feeling better, little wench?” He asked, at the very least she did not look pale anymore.

“I’m still very tired…but the cook has been making foods I can eat” Jaime glanced at the food on the table: oats porridge and berries. The girl had a lion in her belly, not a horse. At least they were kind enough to get him some actual food now, instead of those dreaded oatcakes. Being forced to marry the daughter of the castle had its perks, and they came in the form of bacon, bread and eggs.

“Would you prefer something else? “But it was unfair to have the girl eat such a meal. She shook her head.

“I will eat what the maester tells me, as long as it’s good for our baby “the maester wanted to have her drink a moon tea, but he doubted that her brother had told her. Our baby…the Warrior give him strength.

Jaime sat to eat with the girl. She would ramble about the wedding, saying how excited and nervous she was. He supposed the boy lord would explain the details to him later.

“I had been making something for you” Alva told him smiling, once they were both done with their food. The girl stood up to fetch it from the tray.

The girl’s needlework had the Lannister’s lion. Jaime had to admit he was surprised: even if the background was white instead of crimson, the lion’s mane and claws were the exact color of his house’s sigil. The teeth, the tail…everything about the creature was exactly on the right place. He wondered how she had even managed to remember it that accurately, seeing she had mentioned only being south once in her life. Some of the stitches looked uneven in certain places, and it was simpler than anything he had seen back at the Rock…

“I borrowed our book about the great houses, but had to return it before someone asked why I needed it…”the girl’s said shyly “I…I know the stiches could be better, but I have not been…” she was pregnant, it was natural she would have less energy, even for a little task like that.

“You made a lovely job “Jaime gently traced his fingers through the stiches. Simple, yet he could see the hard work behind it. The girl had not been feeling well for the last weeks, yet she still decided to finish something for him. That deserved some praise “thank you, little wench.”

Alva’s brother had called for her soon after. His future good brother still held no love for him, and made sure to let him know. The boy would spend the next days trying to explain how the wedding should go, and the words he was expected to say in front of the tree, as both practiced in his luxurious cell. It looked like some of the guards and the Maester had explained it to the boy, who would recite them with a monotonous voice.

“And what exactly is stopping me from simply running away the moment you lay your eyes off me?” if he had to wait in the Weirdwood tree for his freckled little wife, it would not be hard.

“We will not leave you alone in the first place” grumbled the boy “my guards and servants will be watching the wedding, and we need witnesses for this, so I invited some of the neighboring houses, hopefully they shall be able to come. Even if you escape, you still have no sword, and you might have seen that snow fell a few days ago, the cold is sure to get you. If it does not, you won’t have any friends here in any case, I assure you. Unless you decide to try your luck with one of the Squids, but I doubt you will even make it to them in the first place. The North remembers, and many have lost kin because of this war.

"The North remembers," Jaime repeated, and had to make an effort not to laugh. "How poetic. Did your maester taught you that ?"

The freckled boy clenched his fists “I mean every word, Lannister. I’m a northern, unlike our maester.”

Jaime raised an eyebrow, “Lannister? What happened to Kingslayer? “

The boy lord sighed “Alva asked me not to call you like that. Said some stupid tale about how you killed the king you swore to protect for good reasons…What kind of no sense where you even telling her?” Of course, his betrothed would defend his honor, the girl even believed he was not fucking his sister at all.

The truth “Just one of my stories. She seemed to enjoy my tales quite a bit…and my cock too” his future good brother looked really to launch at him again, his freckles harder to distinguish now. That would be quite a stupid decision by the child. “Your lips and your bruise are not done healing, my lord. Maybe think about it twice. You already know you can’t beat me if we fight.”

“Let’s just get this done, Lannister” the boy sounded as if someone had just scold him “you will both say the words, pray at the tree, and you will carry Alva back in her arms. Lord Manderly send some of his court’s musicians, who will play music for your wedding feast. I hope you enjoy northern beer, not the pisswater you Southrons drink.”

 “I would rather have some Arbor Gold. Especially if I can lick it off your sister’s teats again” the boy stood up, his face still red from anger.

“You’re lucky I’ve let you keep your tongue." The angry child grumbled.

 "I’m just joking, my little good brother” what a brat “You will hear worse on the disrobement. If you give me a sword, maybe you can get me to shut up with my harmless jokes, granted, if you manage to beat me.”

“It would be safer and quicker to just stab every single one of my guards and then myself” about that he was not wrong “besides, our guests would sooner tear you apart than tear off your clothes. For your own sake, Lannister, there will be no disrobement.”

“You sister is marrying a Lannister of Casterly Rock, my lord. Try acting happier, it might just be the best thing that has ever happened to your family. Tho it is Tyrion who will be heir “he needed to find a way to remain as a Kingsguard. Robert had allowed it once, perhaps Cersei could convince Joff to do the same. He would need to make sure that the little wench did not get to meet her future good sister, of course…or maybe be not, perhaps he could fuck them both at the same time. The girl would not refuse anything he wanted. “Tho I’m flattered that you do look out for my wellbeing, good brother.”

“I wish King Robb’s direwolf would have torn your throat apart” oh what a charming boy, northerns surely loved their wolves.

Just like I tore your brother’s stomach. But that he chose not to say, he was done teasing the boy lord “should we continue? I’m to marry your sister soon enough, let’s make sure I can at least say the right words….”

When the day finally arrived, Jaime was presented with a cloak, a bit too simple for his taste. The lion was not precisely the correct tone of yellow: it looked darker than it needed to be, and the claws and fangs were white. The crimson was not as light as it was supposed to be, too much of a somber red for his taste. The cloak itself was masterfully done, Jaime would grant the woman who did it that. But if he had to be honest, the little wench had done a better job choosing the colors. A shame she could only do small needlework.

“We could not find the right colors, I guess I should apologize for that” the boy had eyed the book they had given to the woman. She could not read, but the pictures were of much help, according to his soon to be good brother. The lad then laid a knife on the table “maybe you should shave,  the beard does not suit you well”

Jaime could have grabbed the knife and slit the boy’s throat, but it would be suicide…and darken the mood for his own wedding. It could also be a bad omen to kill the bride’s brother before the ceremony. He simply shaved his beard off, they had been kind enough to allow him to wear his golden armor for the occasion. They also did not chain him, as Jaime was escorted to the Godswood.

The heart tree was as hideous as every single other one Jaime had seen. Even the one in Casterly Rock’s Stone Garden was not pretty to look at. He heard gasps and whispers as he walked: while he had no idea who any of the guests were, but whether they were from minor noble houses or even smallfolk, he knew that they could recognize who he was. The Young Wolf might not react too kindly once word reached him, of that he was sure, and it seemed that so were the guests. Jaime paid them no mind: why should a bunch of wolves, or perhaps owls, scare a lion? The majority of them were women, young and old, as well as a few children and babes in arms, as well as men too old to fight.

 An owl looked at him as soon as he stopped walking. White, just like the one the Nielsens had in their sigil. It tilted it’s head, then flew away.

Fallen leaves lay about the wide white trunk in drifts of red and brown. Ravens and owls could be heard, as it was nearly dusk, a weird time for a wedding, if he was honest. The cloak felt tight around his neck, perhaps the woman would have rather sewn a noose for him if she could. He might as well entertain the guests who so kindly came to see him take an owl for a bride: Jaime pulled his brightest smile as he turned around to face his kind audience. So many eyes were set on him “Kingslayer….” More than one voice mumbled. There was only one person who would not refer to him as that….: the girl who wore a purple cloak and came holding her little brother’s arm. She wore a dress white as the owl he had just seen, and worn her blonde hair on a single braid.Of course, the girl had the golden crown he had given to her all those years ago back in Lannisport. The boy wore his winged helmet, and the purple armor with the owl painted on it. Two pairs of soft blue eyes stared at him: one looked at the knight they had dreamed of ever since their owner was a little girl, the other one stared at the man who had murdered their owner's elder brother.

 "Who comes?" he had practiced the lines more times that he could count, with the freckled boy in front of him more than happy to correct him. Jaime was kind enough to get the words right this time "Who comes before the god?"

The boy lord answered. "Alva of House Nielsen comes here to be wed. A woman grown and flowered, trueborn and noble, she comes to beg the blessings of the gods. Who comes to claim her?" His voice trembled. It was cold for Jaime, but he doubted it was the same for the siblings. The boy was not happy, it was obvious.It was your idea, my lord. You wanted to protect her, did you not? Now be good and do not whine anymore, I'm about to marry your sweet sister...

Chapter Text

Her brother had been busy all week, but he was even more stressed about the wedding than she was. That had come as a surprise for Alva.

“Alric, perhaps you should sit down for a bit “the girl had to talk to him the day before.

“No! I need to see that the bread and salt are all well done, we need so many of it. You are the only one here in the north who likes Lannister, the rest would sooner see him hanged than wed” of course they would not dare to kill him, King Robb would punish whoever did so, but she had to agree with her brother “and the food…gods I had not taught well of it. The sittings are also an issue: I invited the family of the woman who made the Lannister cloak, but I’m not sure of where they should sit. Gods, I wish I would have gone to Winterfell instead “

They still had heard no word of their men in Winterfell. Alva hoped that they would return soon, and that the Squids’ heads would be mounted in spikes on Winterfell.

“Alric, you have already done so much for me. Please little brother, just calm down a little bit. Let me handle this “Alva begged. Her brother relented, and the girl was able to arrange the seating: some of their father’s cousins would sit close by, the smallfolk guests who had kindly made the cloak would be on the farther way side, but still in good places. The food was a challenge, but some honeyed chicken, venison pies, pigeon skewers and roasted geese were to be the main courses. Lemon cakes would be a good enough dessert. Alva made sure to have Arbor Gold wine, Jaime loved that…tho he did mention that he would rather taste it from her breasts again, making her blush.

A day before the ceremony, vassals of the Manderlys arrived for the wedding, tho not in great number, as due to the unforeseen circumstances behind the wedding, many would not be able to travel for it. They were mainly wives, mothers, grandmothers, sisters…few men, except for the old white beards, had attended.  Alric made sure to accommodate them as far away from Jaime’s room as he could. They would not stay for long, at least.

On the day of her wedding, Alva could barely hold her excitement. Alric had said she would see her betrothed until the ceremony of that day, as she needed time to get prepared.

The maids helped to get her hair ready, holding it in one single braid. They helped her get into the wedding dress: white like snow, the one her father’s aunt had used many years ago at her wedding. There had been a blizzard, so the bedding had not been done, allowing the dress to be preserved. It was simple, but she loved it. The maiden cloak (Alric tried to jest it could not be called like that anymore, but he could not finish the joke without cursing Jaime) had not been used since then either: purple and soft, made out of sheep wool. The owl on it had shiny blue eyes, almost like those of her family.

Her brother had put on his armor and winged helmet “Alric, are we going to a wedding or to retake Winterfell?” She asked teasingly, once he came to see how she was doing.

“I have to give you away to Lannister…” her brother grumbled. Alric had been forced to cover up the bruise in his eye but could not do the same with his lips. He complained that it made him feel like a girl…but it was that or showing up with the bruise “It’s only fair that I wear my best clothes “Alva decided not to press the issue any further.

That day went as slow as possible, it seemed. They would wed by dusk, yet it felt that it took hours to arrive. Some of the guests had brought food, making Alric’s concerns lessen: the singers send by Lord Wyman Manderly had said that the man decided his grandnephews could have some of White Harbor’s best catches, as an apology for being unable to attend the wedding himself. Thus, he had sent baskets full of cod cakes, clams, lobster, lampreys, crabs and mussels, as well as delicious pork pies. The Woolfields had brought along cheese wheels, and mutton chops sauced in honey as well. Others had brought ale and apple cider, for which she was thankful for.

Alva was in her room, putting on the final details for the wedding. Her family did not own that many jewels, but she had one that would look more beautiful than any of them: her golden crown.

“Are you sure, m’lady?” asked Sara. Alva nodded.

“It’s Jaime I’m marrying, after all “she smiled. Alric came to pick her up a few minutes before dusk.

That was not precisely a northern tradition, but it was proper to the Nielsens: owls would begin to wake at dusk, after all. Her heart was racing, Alva had dreamed of that day…part of her wished it was Dravor handing her off to Jaime. She loved Alric, but it was strange to be a head taller than him if it was his job to give her away. She never dreamt of her father handing her off, weirdly enough…

An owl flew by as they approached the godswood. It all felt like a dream. Alva felt all the sets of eyes staring at her, but she did not pay them any attention, except to one.

Green eyes stared at her. Jaime had golden hair, as if he had stolen it from the sun itself. He wore his golden armor, with the majestic lion on it, and it shined beautifully as the last sun rays shined behind him. This time, he did not wear the white cape, like all those years ago in Lannisport. His beard was gone,and tho she was fond of it, now he looked just like the first time they had met…Her golden knight smiled at her, like she had seen him do in her dreams. His smile cut deeper than any knife of which she could think. Alva’s breath was gone by the moment she stood next to him, he truly looked like a knight out of a tale.

 "Who comes?" Alva nearly fainted after hearing him say the words, just as she had imagined all those years.  She had given up hope that he would ever say them to her, instead having resigned to hearing them from a boy who was now dead. “Who comes before the god?"

Alric answered. "Alva of House Nielsen comes here to be wed. A woman grown and flowered, trueborn and noble, she comes to beg the blessings of the gods. Who comes to claim her?" His voice trembled. Was he cold? It was quite warm at the time…

“Me “answered her groom “Jaime of House Lannister, Warden of the East, Lord Commander of the Kingsguard. I claim her. Who gives her?”

“Alric of House Nielsen, her younger brother” he turned to his sister. His soft blue eyes were full of tears. Ow the poor thing, she didn’t know that he liked to cry at weddings “Lady Alva, will you take this man?”

“I take this man” she said as loud as she could, so everyone present could listen. Her brother stepped back.

Jaime took her hand with his swordhand before they knelt in front of the heart tree, both bowing their heads in a token of submission, and prayed in silence. She could feel the weirdwood’s eyes staring at her with a smile on its face. Alva thanked the old god’s for giving her a baby and Jaime as a husband. She wondered what he was praying about.

After a moment of silence, Alva and her husband rose again. He undid her cloak, and in its place fastened the red cloak with the golden lion. She was now his bride and smiled softly. Jaime scooped her into his strong arms to walk back with her.

Alva could not resist, she reached to kiss his lips as he carried her, even if many guests might disapprove. Jaime gently kissed her back, and one of the singers that had been send began to play Two Hearts that Beat as One.

The wedding feast went well enough, the food enough for everyone and even more. She did not eat much of it, of course, as much of the food would make her feel unwell. Alva danced with her husband to the tune of The Seasons of my love, and then with her brother to The Winter Maid. 

Guests were soon fed and drunk and took part in the dancing. The Vow Unspoken, Danny Flint, and The Rat Cook were also performed by the singers. Jaime then asked for Rains of Castamere to be played. The singers hesitated before obeying. Alva could not blame them: she loved her husband, but the entire north was at war with his family, the singers would not be too happy with it, and guests would not like to hear it either. Yet he only wanted a song that reminded him of his home, as he told her as they danced, and she kindly understood. Most guests decided not to dance to that one, as Alva had expected.

Many guests decided to request their own songs afterwards. Wolf in the Night was a recent song, which was about King Robb’s victory at the Battle of Oxcross, yet everyone wanted to hear it, more than once. Wolves in the Hills was another one very favored. The singers played one of their own, about a lion who was caught sleeping and torn apart by two huge wolves, one red and one grey. Alric seemed to enjoy that one and asked for the singers to replay it three times, until he decided The Bear and the Maiden Fair had been postponed too much. Soon after it, guests started to shout.

“To bed! To bed! To bed with them!”

Alric signaled to the singers to stop the music after a while “it saddens me to announce that we cannot do the disrobement ceremony, as my good brother is Southron and won’t be able to handle the cold like a northern would “oh poor Jaime, the air was just so cold there…

“Oh, it’s sweet that you worry that much about me, Alric, my little good brother“Jaime stood, gently taking Alva’s hand “I have handled worse. If my beautiful bride doesn’t mind, I think we should go ahead with the bedding.”

There were not many men to undress her in the first place, but Alva agreed and shyly nodded. The singers began to play The Queen Took Off Her Sandals, The King Took Off His Crown. Her brother’s face was red, poor thing. He shyly helped her get the crown off “please take care of it “she whispered. Female guests went to help Jaime off his armor, and she felt a hint of jealously.

She paid no mind to the randy japes the men would tell her, her heart just wanted to be with Jaime once again. He was grinning and smiled at his bride. Poor Alric seemed very flustered and decided he could not keep disrobbing her, instead calling for two guards.

Groom and bride were as naked as their name days once again. Soon, they were guided to Jaime’s bedroom, Alric insisted they could not sleep on hers. Not that she minded…

“We can finally use the bed, lord Husband” the girl smiled, once the doors behind them were closed. Jaime pushed her softly against it, gently kissing her neck. Alva moaned, even if she had not been a maiden for a while now, she still loved his attention.

Her husband kept going down before stopping on her breasts, catching them on his mouth as he softly bite and lick them, playing with her nipples and giving her soft kisses “wine tastes much sweeter when it falls on you” Jaime joked, he had drank some of the wine that she had made available, tho none spilled on her.

“Take me, please…” she wanted to have their first night as groom and bride.

“Patience, my little wench” he spoke. His kisses kept going lower, much lower, having now moved to the edge of the bed, kneeling…. until he kissed a part of her that she did not know could even be kissed.

She gasped, moaned and squirmed, feeling Jaime’s tongue down in her lady bits. His manhood had made her finish many times, yet Alva had to admit she enjoyed the new experience quite a lot. She twisted her body, her husband holding her tights in place as her body squealed thanks to his actions.

Alva whimpered when his tongue left her insides but yelled loudly once again, she had no idea of where exactly was Jaime sucking and kissing, just that she had to grip tightly on the bed, feeling her body shake. She panted, gods, her handsome husband….

Her lion released her, and she felt as he laid next to her. Jaime would always take her from behind. Alva thought it was the only way, that’s how she had seen creatures mate…except for the time he took her on the bathtub. She wanted to see him again as he filled her with his manhood once more….

But he turned her around, her face softly resting on the bed. It was still more comfortable than the wall, at least. And she would not oppose to have her husband inside once again…one of Jaime’s hands gently grabbed her face as he planted a kiss on her. She could taste herself on his lips, a flavor too queer for Alva’s liking. She could not see what he was doing with his other hand, sadly.

She felt a familiar sensation: his manhood rubbing against her lady bits. Alva was so eager to take him in, she need to be his, feel him fill her with his seed once again….and as her golden knight gently complied with her unspoken wishes, the newly wed bride screamed loudly.

Alva did not have to hold back anymore. She could yell, let everyone know Jaime was taking her, that he was her husband and that she would give birth to his child soon enough. He bit her neck and fondled her breasts, softly pressing her against the bed. The girl felt her body tremble several times. She had not felt well enough to properly bed Jaime for almost a fortnight, feeling to tired to enjoy his attention, and had not done so ever since the letter reached Northlight Keep…and she let him know just how much she had missed him.

“JAIME, GODS, JAIME” she yelled, each thrust sending waves of pleasure through her body.

She felt his lips softly brush against her ear.

“My sweet Alva…” he whispered as his seed filled her once again. She was his, only his. Jaime gently got off her, and the tired girl pulled him for a kiss before snuggling to enjoy her slumber.

She had finally married her golden knight…

Chapter Text

After praying to the tree (quite honestly, he did not bother to do so, what was a tree going to even do?) Jaime picked his wife. The girl had been daring enough to kiss him in front of the guests. He wasn’t sure if the horrified gasps were because of the kiss, or because she seemed a bit too happy about marrying a man they despised that much. It could have been both. It didn’t matter, Jaime was more than glad to return the gesture.

The wedding feast had gone quite well, in Jaime’s opinion, even if the boy lord toasted for Robb Stark. It was shame that the northerns could not appreciate a good song: Rains of Castamere was worthy of being played in a wedding, especially if it was done for a Lannister wedding. This one was one after all, even if they were wed by a tree. His dear lord father would certainly be pleased to have it play on such occasion. Even his new wife enjoyed it as they danced together. No other guests wanted to join them.

“Jaime, I’m not sure if it was a good idea to ask for it “she whispered.

Strange, usually she would not mind any of his decisions “It just reminds me of my home, my little wench “that was all she needed to hear, it seemed, as the girl did not protest anymore and reached to kiss his cheek.

Unfortunately, the guests were not as understanding as the girl: a hideous song about one of the Young Wolf’s victories, called Wolves in the Night, seemed to be more popular, and many guests requested it. The singers then decided to play a new one, based on the battle where he was captured. They did not state it as such, but the lyrics made it quite clear.

In the forest, the lion slept

Jaime had not been sleeping, the northerns had decided that they would rather play a trick than face him directly. They feared him that much.

As two wolves in the trees around him crept

One was a wolf cub, not a wolf, and they were not alone.

Quiet as a whisper, they were

All lies, he could hear them very bloody well.

Of grey and red fur, they were

Grey Wind, the damn beast was called. What a stupid name, how he had wished to cut the hideous thing’s head off. Jaime decided to ignore it and see where the stupid song went.

The lion slept, unaware

That the angry wolves around him, crept

And unto him they leapt

The wolves, one grey, one red

Howled as the lion bled

All torn apart and dead

And for the Lion, not a tear was shed

This Lion had torn into an owl, a moose, and two suns. That part they forgot to tell. And he would have done the same with the wolf cub had the real one not been at his side. Now that would have made for a better song. He was also alive, and very well. The song did make him wish he had died, if only to be spared from having to listen to it.

Jaime was sitting next to his wife and took a sip of wine as the northern guests loudly sang and danced to the new song. Old, young, they all were enjoying it. Being subtle did not seem to be a northern virtue. Despite her newfound energy, the little wench at least did not ask him to dance to that one.

His new good brother seemed to like that song just a bit too much, requesting it three times and each danced with another guest while occasionally glaring at him. At least he had the decency to not ask his sister to join him. She was a Lannister now, after all, whether he liked it or not.

He tried to eat, gods, that had to be the worst song he had ever heard. His wife would be asked to dance to other songs by her brother, other northern children, and some of the guards. Yet Alva didn’t dance as cheerfully as she would with him. Still, he was not pleased that they insisted on asking her for a moment to dance, for some reason he did not fully understand.

Jaime decided that it had been a while since he had danced, once The Bear and the Maiden Fair was finally sung, as none of the other northern women seemed to be interested in dancing with him. Perhaps some of the younger guests were, but their mothers, grandmothers, aunts, cousins and older sisters would hold them back. Just as his good mother wished she could do that day in Lannisport, no doubt…. He swiftly lifted his wife as the song was performed before sitting down again, the girl was pregnant after all, and should have some rest, their child could still tire her.

“To bed! To bed! To bed with them!” Ah, the northerns possibly wanted the wedding to be done as soon as possible…or they genuinely enjoyed that part of the ceremony. They better treat his lady wife with care, she had not been feeling well for the last few weeks.

The boy lord signaled to the singers to stop the music “it saddens me to announce that we cannot do the disrobement ceremony, as my good brother is Southron and won’t be able to handle the cold like a northern would “ our guests would sooner tear you apart than tear off your clothes. For your own sake, Lannister, there will be no disrobement. That’s what the boy lord had said.

But he would not let himself be intimidated by some wolves. He was a lion, the song made that very clear, and if northerns were so honorable, he had nothing to fear “Oh, it’s sweet that you worry that much about me, Alric, my little good brother “Jaime stood, gently taking Alva’s hand “I have handled worse. If my beautiful bride doesn’t mind, I think we should go ahead with the bedding.”

The girl gave him a shy smile and nodded. For a second, she looked stunning…. He could imagine that’s just how happy and sweet Cersei would look if they could marry, finally being wife and husband as they should be. Finally getting the ceremony they deserved. Theirs would have been twice as large, with a tourney held in their honor. He would have crowned her Queen of Love and Beauty, had that ever happened, maybe with one similar to the one his wife was wearing at the moment.

The singers began to play The Queen Took Off Her Sandals, The King Took Off His Crown, it looked like even northerns knew that was the best song to play during that part of the feast. The boy lord’s face was red, but he joined the male guests who were disrobing his sister. The female guests were shyer, but still approached him to do their part and help him off his clothes.

“You are a monster, Kingslayer” he could hear a mumble, as they worked to undo his armor “my son was her betrothed, your men took his life “the boots, this time. Funny, Alva never spoke about the boy, it seemed she did not care much for him “May you fall and break your neck in the stairs “he grinned, they all hated him, and he had no doubt they would rather hang him. Guest right protected him: he was prisoner of the boy lord. They could not harm him, no matter how much they wanted, as that would be not only an offense to his house, but to their fake King “King in the north! “He looked at his wife, smiling “Long live to King Robb!” Her soft blue eyes stared at him, just as happy. He wondered what words she was hearing “the others take you, Kingslayer “Behind fake smiles, he could hear them “what did you do to the girl, Kingslayer?” He had fucked her, of course, and took her maiden head. “Your son shall lose his head, just like he cut Lord Stark’s “as if they could even get to King’s Landing “to the seven hells with you, Lannister!” were there houses that followed the Seven in those lands?

The only genuine smile was that of his wife. She knew why he had become a Kingslayer, he had drunkenly told her that secret. But the women understood that he had fathered a king. That much he could not deny, Alva did it for him already…

Groom and bride were taken to his room, the boy lord refusing to let them use their sister’s. 

“We can finally use the bed, lord Husband” the girl smiled, once the doors behind them were closed. Jaime pushed her against the bed, immediately starting to kiss her neck. She moaned: the little wench seemed to have more energy than the last time he’d bed her.

Jaime decided to kiss every inch of her, her neck, her teats…and finally got to taste her sweet cunt, the cause of so many of his troubles. His wife would moan and trembled, as he devoured her with his tongue. Her cunt was dripping, ready to take him in…

He stood to lay next to her: it was, unfortunately, Cersei he wished for at the moment, who he imagined was the one he was taking. It should have been their wedding, and that it was their wedding night. Only once had he fucked the little wench while looking at her face…and that he would not repeat, much less at that time.

He stroke his cock to get himself ready before entering his new wife. She screamed ever so deliciously, as loud as he wished to make his dear sister scream had they ever been able to wed. At the very least, for that night, he could imagine that he had married Cersei.

And he got too careless for his own sake “My sweet Cersei…” he whispered gently as he finished inside her. Every time they fucked, he tried not to say anything at all, less that happened.

The girl, for his good luck, seemed to be too tired once they were done as soon as he pulled out, Alva went to snuggle against him and soon fell asleep.

Jaime simply watched his wife sleep; did she notice? Did she hear anything at all? Did she hear as he called another woman? What kind of man would do that? Call his wife by another name during their first night? He knew the answer, of course….

Yet…He loved Cersei. He loved his sister…at least he did not have to worry, he realized, as for he decided to give more thought to the issue, for once: the little wench could be easily persuaded she imagined the name leaving his lips, if needed. She trusted every word he said, anyways, and would not speak about it. Even more important, Jaime did not want to harm her…He simply put his right hand on her belly.

“You have caused enough trouble already” he mumbled. The mother, his lady wife, was merely a child herself. Flowered, yes, but far from a woman grown. He had thought he was a man at that age, but his time on Aerys’ Kingsguard taught him otherwise. No one, man or woman, is truly grown at six and ten…

Alva was a young fool, he would need to look out to make sure she was alright, once the war ended and he took her south. Jaime had been allowed to stay in the Kingsguard after having killed the previous king, would marrying really be as terrible? He could ask to have her and their child to be moved to his room or send to the Rock. Even if he was not on the succession, they could be cared for. Tyrion could take care of the child once he became the lord, even if their father still did not want to leave it to his brother.

Their child could not be seen yet, nor would it kick.  Jaime had never been able to do that with Cersei, she feared it could lead to rumors and refused to allow him. He could rarely spend much time with her after they fucked, simply hugging his sister and allowing her to sleep like his wife was doing…for once, he could pretend that he was holding Cersei and their child, and he knew why “but I forgive you”

Chapter Text

The wedding had gone well, but Alric still couldn’t take a moment to rest. Many guests were not happy about the Kingslayer marrying his sister, or even being there in the first place. That had been a secret until that very moment…but he had no regrets, he had to protect his sister.

“Send a raven to White Harbor, I’m riding to speak with Lord Manderly “he knew other ladies and acting lords would do the same. He had sent them with parting gifts, but ravens would fly soon. Some would no doubt arrive before he did. So, it was better if he joined the singers on their way back “my sister is to stay locked with her husband until I return “

He would later ask Alva for forgiveness for riding off so soon after her wedding and leaving her alone with the Kingslayer (even if he doubted she minded).

He was lucky, as Alric got to ride back with the singers. They were kind enough to replay the song about his new good brother a couple of times. Even if it was still summer, the north would occasionally have bits of snow, which set back their journey, as luck would have that it fell right as they departed.

Time Alric used to practice what he would say. He also made sure to remove the cover for his injuries, let Lord Manderly, his overlord and great uncle, understand he had not missed going to his first war because of nothing.

Going to White Harbor was hard for him: they had put his mother to rest on its ocean, back when he was a boy. A chill…. Alva and Dravor could remember her better than Alric could, but he still missed her. He also missed the fact that his father would at least say more than three words every time they saw each other….

“Boy, get your head off the clouds” one of the singers advised him. Maybe he had the same issue that his sister did sometimes…

It took them two days to get to White Harbor. No doubt that Lord Manderly already knew of the situation, crows flew faster than any horse could walk. When Alric heard the sound of the waves clashing, he knew they had arrived.

The fish market was busy as ever. The busy merchants could be heart, offering clams, crabs, eels (the others take the eels) mussels, salmon and lobsters. Maybe he would make to buy some fish on his way back…if he did not get sent to the wall, that is. Past the market, there was the Seal Gate, which opened to let them in.

He had been there a year ago, yet Alric was always marveled at the Statue in the Fishfoot Yard. A merman holding a trident…like the Manderly guards would. There was also the old winesink, where Dravor would tell him to never set foot in. Some women were wearing clothes that would surely not warm them from the cold air of the north. Women: they could be a bit too dumb sometimes….

As they passed through the Sept of the Snows with their horses, Alric could feel the statues’ eyes staring at him. The Father, the Mother, the Warrior, the Smith, the Crone…all but the one they called the Stranger, stared at him, judging. He had deemed other gods and the vows made in front of them more important after all

I was protecting my sister Alric thought for himself I don’t want to lose her. You are southern gods, and the Kingslayer did not honor the vows he made on your names. The old gods take care of us in the north. In Northlight Keep, they do. They married in front of the Weirdwood, they shall be wife and husband.

Why was he even arguing with the statues? With all due respect to his lady grandmother and the Manderlys, the Seven were just statues, nothing more. The old gods could be found in the Weirdwood trees, their faces always watching over those who prayed to them. Those where the only gods he needed. Alva and Dravor would at times ask their mother’s god for strength, but that one he didn’t know well enough. As he drifted in his thoughts, he could see New Castle.

He asked every god he knew for strength and had his horse ride uphill. Alric was aware that the talk would not be an easy one. Going to court…that was what Dravor had been prepared for, not him. He was a second son, not the heir... but he had to speak at the Mermaid Court.

Alric felt suddenly less of a man. He felt like a child, once again, as he approached the trident wielding guards. His hands were sweatier than ever

“I’m here to speak with Lord Wyman “he tried to sound once again like a man, tho his voice broke, and his throat dried. The guards looked down on him.

“We will escort you, lord Nielsen “the boy tried to remain calm. It would be easier if he had brought more men of his own, but he had only the singers, who were not even under his service, but from his overlord. As he saw the marbled mermen outside the court, the boy took a deep breath. The guards opened the doors for him.

The Merman’s Court was probably the most beautiful place he had ever seen. It was not the first time Alric had been there, but it was still as amazing: sea creatures were painted on every wall, floor and ceiling. The flood had crabs and starfish hiding around twisting black fronds of seaweed and bones of drowned sailors. Pale sharks could be seen painted on the wall among the blue paint. Other eight-armed creatures he could not recognize adorned the windows.

Lord Manderly was a large man. It was only expected that he would have a large, cushioned throne. Alric had expected to see the lord’s granddaughters, Wynafrid and Wylla. They were both so pretty…but only his great uncle was there, much to his misfortune.

“Lord Manderly, I’m afraid I come here to apologize “the boy spoke nervously, trying not to shake much. He was sure the Lord already knew why.

His great uncle was a huge man, who was already too fat to even ride a horse. How he even walked was a mystery “it would have been kind to tell me that your sister was marrying the Kingslayer. I would have surely attended to see how my own kin managed to accomplish such a feat” the fat lord laughed “but I have to wonder, why would you even want him as your good brother? “It was known how Dravor had died…

He knew lying to his over lord was not a good idea, especially seeing the circumstances “I do not have any love for him, but Lannister seduced my sister, she is with child” Alric spoke, trying not to shake “the maester suggested she be given moon tea, but sher….my lord, please forgive me, but I could not do that to her. She is now legally a Lannister, my father can’t order my maester to give her the drink.”

“Your father can’t be angry, if he also was not precisely wiser than her back at the same age. I suppose it was to be expected that my nephew’s daughter would be just like him and your lady mother “his great uncle laughed. The boy nervously did as well, as he did not know his father well enough to have an opinion on the subject. He did not know how their parents had met and wed… “you should write to King Robb, in any case. I suppose your new good brother was responsible for you not going with the rest of my vassals “ after all, it was easy to spot the injuries on his face.

Alric nodded “I…happened to have a fight with him, the maester said I should stay in case it was a bad hit” Lannister robbed him of his first real fight. There was something else that worried him: how would their King react? “If I have to take the Black…”

But another laugh from his great uncle interrupted him “My nephew, he will understand. A raven from the South happened to arrive just this morning: he has married a Westerling lady. It seems that the West’s men and their maidens know a way or two to charm northern youths “

King Robb had married as well? The gods seemed to be too kind with him that day…he only could wonder why “I suppose I should congratulate him on my letter, in that case…”

“I’m sure he would appreciate it” his overlord confirmed “I think I shall always regret not seeing my own great niece marrying the Kingslayer himself. I still regret that I didn’t get to catch a glimpse of the chained lion when he was brough by sea, seeing him getting married in front of a Weirdwood must have been a worthy sight.”

He didn’t catch a glimpse? That made the boy curious “excuse me for the question, but didn’t you see him when he arrived?”

His uncle shook his head “see, I had to keep my maester busy, and make sure he would not see the new guest that was going your way. Since you have a Lannister in your castle, or two, now that your sister has married one, I can confide you in something: I have tried to limit my maester’s knowledge about certain events in my lands. He does not read must of my messages, thank the Seven, tho with all the ravens that arrived after the wedding, I’m afraid he might know that you have a lion caged.”

But that only confused the boy even more “and why don’t you trust your maester?”

Before lord Manderly could answer, the door’s opened “my lord, I’m sorry, but an urgent message has arrived” called a voice. Alric turned around to see its owner.

A fat man, tho not as much as Lord Manderly. Green eyes, almost like the green often reserved for a cat’s eyes. His head was full of blonde curls. Alric was blonde, sure, but those curls looked as if the sun itself had its color stolen. His question had easily been answered.

The maester was definitely born a Lannister.

Chapter Text

Alva couldn’t believe she was waking up next to her husband for the first time. She could believe much less that her husband was Jaime himself. Her Golden Knight, who was tightly holding her. Who was gently holding her belly, where their child was…

She turned and gently kissed his lips “good morning, lord husband” the girl said softly and smiled. Her husband opened his eyes. Such a pretty green…Alva gently caressed his face, her hands had now healed from the incident with the chimney. 

“My lady wife…” he mumbled, still half asleep. Jaime had drunk a bit of wine last night, of course her poor husband would feel tired “about last night…” gods, their first night as husband and wife.

“It was wonderful” she hugged her husband. Jaime had called for her as he took her…

Jaime let out a chuckle “Good to know I didn’t disappoint.”

Their first days as a husband and wife had to be spent locked. Sara the maid said that her brother had rode to speak with Lord Manderly and had given the order “he told me to give your crown back, m’lady” at least he was kind enough for it. It luckily had not suffered much for her impulsive actions. 

Alva got to spend the next days with her husband. Not that she minded, of course, but the girl was not precisely happy about being locked for even more time. Having to stay all day in the same place…gods, her poor husband 

“I’m going to ask Alric to let you walk outside, once he comes back” the girl promised as she sat to eat her oats. 

“Little wench, can’t you give the order?” Her husband asked her. 

Alva shook her head “I’m a Lannister now” she wasn’t a member of the household anymore after all.

For most of the days, they spend kissing, hugging, and, tho it was Jaime who would call it that way, fucking. She loved how he felt inside her, taking her against the bed, against the wall, even in the bathtub…tho he had her face the other way, even if she preferred to see him…

There were books, too. Alva had chosen most of them, thinking that they could help her golden knight to do something else during his imprisonment. Jaime was not fond of reading the same ones she did, however. But, as they were bored and already tired, the girl would read them out loud, so they could both enjoy the story as they laid on the bed. 

“Florian the fool?” Jaime asked, as she started the story. 

“It’s one of my favorite ones “she smiled. 

“I have heard of him” her husband answered “they are very well known in the south, little wench. Fools usually don’t make for good knights, I’m afraid. They are better off sticking to juggling”

“We don’t have many of them in the North “only Lord Manderly’s court had a fool, as far as she could recall. Winterfell never had one “or knights...” again, only their overlords had them. But she had Jaime, he was better than them “but I have you”

Jaime tilted his head, smirking. “So I’m both a fool and a knight now? Should I start juggling for you, little wench?”

“No!” Alva’s cheeks turned red. “I didn’t mean it like that…”Maybe she should find a story that wasn’t about romance “I can read the one about the Winter Kings “Alva offered. Jaime liked stories of other knights, especially the ones that had been in the Kingsguard. Knights that had existed. By now, she could tell the story of ser Criston Cole, who was killed by many arrows from a crossbow the old men from the north had shot (Jaime thought they were cowards, she disagreed) or the boy who was a Kingsguard for enough minutes to save his king “it has an ancient ballad about Brandon the Builder”

“I think I will pass your offer “her husband answered. Oh, it was a bad idea to read to him about the Stark Kings after all….” say, why don’t tell me about your family? I only know my good brother, and I prefer real stories, not books full of made-up tales…but seeing my little wife is an owl, it would be good to know about the rest of your flock.”

Alva recalled the story she had been hearing ever since she was a little girl “we have been here for thousands of years. Our ancestors were fleeing from the Wrath of the Red Kings, the enemies of the Winter Kings, who our lord had chosen to support for a war now forgotten. Our old castle, whose name has been lost to history, had been burnt to the ground, and the lord slain. One of the few items that had managed to be saved was a lamp, carried by the late lord’s pregnant wife so she could warm herself and her children…until a blue-eyed owl stole it. One angry son of the woman ran after it, furious that the creature had been so daring. His mother send guards after him, worried that he could get lost or captured by the Boltons…but the boy and the guards came up unto a small place between the mountains, where no trees would grow, as if to was waiting for a castle to be made. The owl set itself on a Weirdwood tree, a signal from the gods that this should be they home, and then flew with the lamp when the boy approached it. Our family chose the owl as our new sigil as a way to thank it.”

Her husband had been listening, she wondered if Jaime liked the story “it was fascinating, Alva, but that’s not quite what I meant “oh, perhaps she got a bit too carried off. But she wanted to do just as he asked…

“I…Alric and I are the youngest ones, Dravor…” they both knew what had been of him “my mother came from the iron islands…. I don’t know how she and father met. She was a follower of the Drowned god. Father never told us how they met or how they fell in love…but he loved her dearly, he was never the same…father used to be kinder with us, would hold me and Alric…he only spend time with Dravor after she passed “ Alva would rather not recall much of it “I still miss her…” 

“But come now, little owl, maybe it’s better not to think of the dead .” Her husband said.

“The crown…it helped a lot. I would hug it and remember when she was with us…. I was seven, you know, Jaime? But you…I loved you back then too, I liked to imagine you were with me…” she reached to hold his hand and felt his gaze on her. The girl shyly smiled, trying not to get the tears to show. Jaime had told her to try not to think about those sorts of things, and he knew better than her…she should try to think of something else, and got just the right idea, gazing at his beautiful eyes “Jaime…can you please tell me about your family?” Alva asked, full of curiosity. She knew about his time as a squire, as a young knight, but not about her new good brother, sister (she had always wanted one, and now the Queen herself would be her sister) and father. And it would make her think of something else, send the sad thoughts as deep inside her mind as she could, just like Jaime had told her….

Chapter Text

Jaime’s new wife was luckily pretty clueless, as she had thought about their wedding night fondly. It was better to let her believe that…

The boy lord had also locked his sister in there, as he had ridden elsewhere. It seemed he had the sense to understand that she was a Lannister now. Jaime, however, held hopes of remaining in the Kingsguard. It wouldn’t be the first time he had gone against its vows, surely it would be easier to forgive a marriage, and he wasn’t serving the first Jaehaerys King after all, even if he was closer to the Wall than to King’s Landing.

The girl’s condition remained the same, tired most of the time, and sickness still affected her. Yet her energy would come back if he got bored enough…but he knew the little wench had limits. So, it was better to simply let her read a book.

Unfortunately, their tastes for stories were far too different. It was to be expected from the Alva that she would enjoy the more romantic knight stories, no matter how much she liked to listen to the ones he had told her. Jaime knew Florian the Fool, of course. He liked the song well enough, but he was not precisely in the mood to listen to the story at the moment.

He doubted the girl could tell him any interesting story, unfortunately, even if she looked surprisingly adorable with the blush after his teases. Women did not get to live any exciting battles in the first place. So, Jaime tried to inquire about her family. She was his wife after all, might as well get to know something about her family…

The little wench didn’t quite understand what he had asked for, unfortunately. The story was probably a made-up tale, very close to the one about how Casterly Rock had come into existence, or how Lann the Clever stole it. Entertaining, fake, and easy to remember…but not quite what he had hoped to listen. He had to be more specific about what he wished to hear.

He regretted it the moment Jaime remembered how the elder brother had passed. He had killed his own good brother, but in his defense, he was aiming for the young wolf. He should not have asked, her heart was already weak enough.

Still, hearing how young his wife was when her mother passed…Seven, just like Cersei and I were when mother died, but we at least got Tyrion by our side when she left us. No wonder she clung to that damned crown, seeing my good father decided to ignore the little wench and my little good brother. He looked at her: such a little thing, trying not to think of a dead mother. Jaime had loved his, but it was something he had learnt to avoid thinking much about.

“Jaime…can you please tell me about your family?” The girl asked. It was only fair, he had to concede it. He had told her little about his siblings and his lord father.And it was rather adorable, strangely enough, how eager she was to learn about them

“My mother passed away when I was seven as well. The gods seem to find that a fitting age to take them” he answered “Tyrion’s birth was too much for her…he was not a cute babe, I will admit. But he is my little brother.”

Many expected Tyrion would have died soon after her, even his lord father (and perhaps, Lord Tywin had hoped it would happen). His brother, of course, had proven them wrong. Jaime could not be more proud of him: while his brother had never taken part of a real battle, he had won that one at the very least. A battle more important than most would credit it for.

“Do you miss her?” His wife asked.

“I can’t even remember what she looked like “Jaime admitted “and I got my brother. I would not change Tyrion for her. When I heard word of lady Stark having taken him captive, I couldn’t stand it. He is my little brother, after all “

“That was very brave…” his wife smiled shyly. Of course, she was northern. He had managed to convince her that Tyrion hadn’t sent a catspaw after the unfortunate child, but doubting the Starks’ words seemed to be too tasking for her mind.

It had been strange to hear her tell the tale the Starks had told their banners. Tyrion would have no reason to go after the boy in the first place. Jaime had never told his brother about his and Cersei’s little secret, and it wouldn’t be in his nature to send someone after a broken boy’s throat. It could have been Cersei, trying to make sure the boy never woke…which made no sense: had she wanted Bran Stark dead she would have sent him. And it is not like her to chose a catspaw who would make such a royal botch of the killing.

“You two could get along, I’m sure. He’s fonder of books than I am” tho Tyrion enjoyed history more. His brother was smarter than he could ever hope to be.

Tyrion was the heir to the Rock, despite their lord father’s wishes. Now that he had gotten the little wench pregnant, Jaime hoped that he would not pass his brother in favor of their child. Of course, if she gave him a girl, they could always have their babe marry a son of Tyrion. It could be a good idea to have his wife and child settle in Casterly Rock, in any case. Away from his good father’s contempt, and from King’s Landing. He could still visit them from time to time...

“I would like to meet him” the girl said.

Jaime wondered what Tyrion would think of the whole affair: perhaps he would also ask if they would geld him and send him to the wall. He could admire the boy lord’s idea or point out a flaw in it. If he was honest, his brother would have had an easier time freeing himself from the marriage.

And Tyrion could boast to have married before Jaime had, tho his wife, the crofter’s daughter… It was better not to give much thought to that matter. Jaime loved his little brother and feared that he would end up hating him if the truth ever came out. The girl and Tyrion had been around the same age as his wife…

“He went to visit the wall, guess he doesn’t mind the North’s cold that much “Jaime had cursed himself upon hearing his brother had been seized by lady Stark. He should have insisted to Tyrion that going to the Wall was a waste of time, but he was stubborn. After all, they were brothers.

“My grandsire went to the Wall too, once he decided my father was fit enough to be lord of the Castle, and joined the Night Watch “northerns were odd, who would willingly want to spend their last days in such a place? “Father said he would write that it was cold, but not such a bad place…I hope my good brother enjoyed his visit “

“Tyrion decided it wasn’t precisely the life for him “having your balls freeze up in such a hideous place? His brother would go crazy in a week, at most.

“He can’t be blamed “his wife decided to conclude “how is your sister like?”

Beautiful, like no other woman is. I’m afraid that includes you, tho from behind, you make a good enough substitute “Cersei is lovely” Jaime answered. So lovely, that he’d ended married after trying to remember her. She was all alone in King’s Landing, and he’d fucked a girl who very barely bore a resemblance, granted he fucked her from behind. He worried about how she would react. Gods, she would be furious…and he knew just how to calm her down. “My sweet sister knows how to charm anyone”

 “I have always wanted a sister. She is beautiful, I saw her in Lannisport too…” gods be good, the poor thing thought that Cersei would like her. For the sake of the two, he would need to keep them apart. The little wench was his lover, not the other way around. Jaime and Cersei had been pretty much husband and wife for years. But seeing that his wife found his sister beautiful, that gave him an idea or two…

Now that Stannis Baratheon and the Starks had been king enough to spread tales of their incest, maybe he could marry Cersei too, and keep Alva as his wife as well. The dragons had always married their sisters, and a couple of them had wed more than one woman: after all, their dragon had three heads. Septons, lords, and smallfolk had turned a blind eye to the Targaryens for hundreds of years, let them do the same for House Lannister. It would play havoc with Joffrey's claim to the crown, to be sure, but in the end it had been swords that had won the Iron Throne for Robert, and swords could keep Joffrey there as well, regardless of whose seed he was. We could marry him to Myrcella and set Sansa Stark aside. Perhaps if Alva turned out to be carrying a lioness, she could marry Tommen. That would show the realm that the Lannisters are above their laws, like gods and Targaryens.

“Oh, so does she. She would be very glad to have you as her good sister” both his wives, they would be closer than sisters in that case. Could he fuck them both at the same time? His brother might be able to answer that.

As he drifted in his thoughts, he felt the girl cuddle against him.

“Do you…” she yawned before even finishing the sentence “think your lord father will be upset?”

Upset? It’s his dream come true “I’m sure he won’t mind…” he might consider she and his family were interested on the gold, but nonetheless glad that Jaime had married. He would need to deal with that once they won the war “but let’s leave that for another day, shall we? You sound tired” the child would take most of her energy. The little wench was stubborn, so he would have to make sure she rested. Jaime allowed her to lay her head against his chest and put the blanket over both of them.

Chapter Text

Catelyn hadn’t been the only parent to receive news about their child’s senseless marriage. Few knew where Robb had sent the Kingslayer, once he had decided it was better not to keep him at Riverrun. She herself wasn’t aware either, until the moment Lord Nielsen, nephew of Lord Manderly, received the news that his daughter was now a Lannister.

Having received Jeyne Westerling as her new daughter later that day, she couldn’t help but to feel pity for the poor man. Just as Robb had looked for comfort with his bride, it seemed that the girl had done the same with the Kingslayer. How the man who had killed her brother was of any comfort was beyond her, but young women and men were not the most rational beings. Even worse, the girl had helped Lannister to break even more of his vows.

She could recall Alva Nielsen. Her Ned believed that they should visit all their vassals, even those of minor houses.  The girl was fond of Sansa, both seemed to have shared a love to stories about knights. Seeing she only had brothers and her mother being gone, the blonde girl had enjoyed any time she could speak with her daughter. Catelyn hoped that such talks never involved the Kingslayer.

“My lady, I offer my condolences “Lord Nielsen said, as he passed her on Riverrun’s yard. He could understand her well enough. Pale blonde hair on his beard and head, with soft blue eyes, the man looked tired. After all, he had lost his son by the man who had married his daughter.

“Pardon me, Lord Nielsen, but I don’t think my son would appreciate to hear that “even if it was a relief to hear it “I do offer you my condolences.”

“I know the king wouldn’t, my lady “Robb had not been happy with the threats Black Walder Frey had made against his wife “but you are his mother. The Kingslayer is my good son now, after all. I can imagine you aren’t pleased “

Lord Nielsen was right. She was unhappy. A Western girl had made her son spurn Lord Walder Frey. They would need to act carefully around his family.

“Robb is a man grown, unfortunately “her son and the Nielsen girl where the same age, that she could recall. She had two brothers, the boys enjoyed playing with her children. That was when Catelyn had them, now she only had Robb with her.

“My daughter…I can’t quite say she is a woman “men would often see their daughters as girls “but she is a whore, unfortunately. Do pardon me for my language, Lady Stark.”

Calling his own daughter a whore was harsh. Cat couldn’t say she approved, despite the girl’s actions “it is the Kingslayer who’s to blame, my Lord. Your daughter has always been a kind girl, he must have seduced her with treacherous words “she had been fascinated by Rickon, who still drank her milk when they had visited Winterfell for the last time.

The man sighed “my lady, I unfortunately know her. Back when she was only six, she met Lannister after the Tourney at Lannisport. He gave her a crown meant for the Queen of Love and Beauty” one meant for his sister, no doubt “my wife told me to take it from our daughter, but I thought that it was just a childish infatuation. I’m afraid I should have listened to her.When she died, I'm afraid I did not care much for my daughter, as I mourned my wife”

His lady wife had been a red-haired ironwoman, that she could remember. Not quite the same tone as her and her family’s auburn hair “my lord, pardon me for asking, but why did you agree to let my son send the Kingslayer to your castle?” He surely should have known, in any case.

“The Kingslayer cut my older son’s stomach. Dravor died slowly in my arms…I expected that my daughter would leave that nonsense behind” Catelyn could understand his point, any person thinking logically would have expected the girl to not hold any love for her brother’s killer “but I’m afraid she’s too much like me…”

His was the voice of a regretful and bitter man. The elder Nielsen boy had been part of Robb’s personal guard and perished along with three other lordlings who tried to protect him from his now good brother.

“Too much like you, my lord?” He had wed an iron woman after all. Catelyn had never been curious enough to ask about their marriage, but such unions weren’t common, as her kin preferred not to get far away from the sea. Or so they had thought, as Theon Greyjoy had proved everyone wrong….

Lord Nielsen seemed to hesitate “she is a fool. A fool in love. That’s what my lord father told me, once I arrived with my wife. It’s how I met her mother, you see, my Lady? We shouldn’t have wed, that I know. Her father was furious and forbade her from ever setting foot on his castle again. Alva inherited my weakness, I’m afraid: I loved her mother more than I have ever loved anyone. A chill took her, a year after the tourney. My old maester said her health turned fragile due to having birth our two youngest too soon.”

“Birth can unfortunately affect some women’s health more than others” Cat knew. She had seen her mother’s health struggle, until the Stranger took her and the baby she tried to give birth.

“I sometimes wondered, that, perhaps if Alva or my Alric, my two younger children…if neither of them had been born…” then maybe she would still live. He did not say that, but Catelyn knew what he meant. “Dravor looked just like her. He had her eyes and her hair. And now he’s gone…yet my daughter chose to bed the lion, and my other son did not stop her.”

But you have them. They are safe, and you know that. My sons are dead, Arya is missing, and Sansa is a hostage in King’s Landing. Robb is the only son who I know it’s well, but he risks his life in battle every day. My lord, you are being ungrateful. You are right: both you and your daughter are fools. But she has not chosen to abandon her children at least.

“Love, as misguided as it may be, doesn’t extinguish easily, unfortunately that is what your daughter and my son have shown. Your other son is a boy, if I can remember correctly: the same age as Sansa. “Who she would do anything to have by her side once again.

“Alva was always fond of Sansa” the lord seemed to have paid no mind to her other words “my daughter is expecting, my lady. My grandchild is to be a lion…I spoke with King Robb. He does not judge her for the marriage, assured me it’s not his place to do so…but, once it’s safe enough for it, he will see that Lord Tywin gets his good daughter, and you shall see your daughter once again. I knew Sansa: she shouldn’t suffer to stay in King’s Landing. If my daughter has chosen to be a Lannister, then she shall go with them.”

Throwing the girl at the vipers…she couldn’t stand the man’s stone heart. Lady Alva had been a fool, yes. But Cat would give anything to have her children alive and well and could never imagine to willingly send one of them to the Lannisters. Still, she at least had to thank the Kingslayer: his child and wife, for her beloved daughter.

Further down South, King’s Landing was still recovering from the Battle of the Blackwater. Wildfire had burnt across its waters, dooming hundreds of men to perish by turning into ashes. Once Tywin heard about Stannis Baratheon’s approach and of alliance Petyr Baelish had arranged with the Iron Throne and the Tyrells, Kevan Lannister had marched down south alongside him and the rest of his elder brother’s host. After dusk, the battle was over: Two dozen lords, foolish enough to fight under Stannis’ banners, had been taken hostage by the crown. There was much rejoice in the city.

And strangely enough, no man seemed happier than his brother. Lancel was gravely injured, and so was Tyrion. Aside from that, his son Martin was still captive at the Riverrun: Kevan prayed for their recovery, and that the wolves be kind to his son.  As such, he could not share the same joy as Tywin.  Joy was such a strange word to be used around him, in any case.

His brother had called for him, and Kevan obeyed. The elder Lannister seemed to be busy as he wrote a letter.

“Brother” Kevan made his presence known.

“Ah, Kevan. My apologies for asking you to come at this hour “it was already dark outside. Tywin often received ravens, more so after the war had broken out.

“It’s not a problem “Kevan was always ready to heed his orders, at any time Tywin needed him too “what is the matter?”

Tywin did something that Kevan had not seen him do ever after Joanna had died: he smiled “Jaime has married a northern girl, it seems.”

“So, the wolves found a way to overpass his Kingsguard vows?” Under the first King Jaehaerys, a precedent for such cases had been set, after Ser Lucamore Strong had his white cape taken away for marrying three different women. Gelded as well, but he doubted Tywin would take the same decision.

“The owls did. House Nielsen has a snowy owl. A minor house, but important enough to have a maester “if Kevan was honest, he had never heard of that house “I doubt my new daughter will bring a good dowry with her, but she has already freed my heir from his vows, that shall be good enough.”

 “Strange, Jaime has never been the type to bed maids” it seemed like an action that could have been expected from his younger nephew.

“Even Jaime must recognize his duties as heir. The girl thankfully made him realize that. It shall also put an end to those senseless rumors of incest” his brother had, for once, chosen to be lenient, quite strange of him. But, after all, Tywin had wished for Jaime to be freed from his Kingsguard duties ever since he had taken the vows “My dear good daughter is pregnant, according to a message brought by raven. Her brother had them marry as soon as her state was found. By a tree, of course, but the Faith will still accept his marriage.”

They had to. It was a Lannister marriage, after all. Even if it had not been done by a septon “Will Jaime’s good-father be a guest to Lord Edmure’s wedding?” no doubt his brother wouldn’t want to find a way to kindly repay the family, by making sure the man lived.

“He appears to be, according to our dear friend” Few would use such words with a man like Roose Bolton, no doubt. But they had nothing to fear about the lord of Dreadfort “He is a nephew of Wyman Manderly and tends to travel near his cousin. Not the one we hold hostage, of course”

“Hopefully, the Freys will be kind enough to attend him well” surely, they would have the sense to know harming the man could be a dangerous idea. Even the Freys had that much common sense in them.

“They shall make sure he enjoys the wedding well enough. Alva and her brother Alric did our house a good service.” His brother had even learned the Nielsen children’s names. The House had been lucky to have pleased his brother that much “Hopefully, the girl births me a grandson. He could be fostered here at King’s Landing, when old enough, of course. Jaime can take care of Casterly Rock and keep siring more children on her, and I’ll make sure that his heir grows skillful enough to inherit after my son. And perhaps Janei could be a good wife for my grandchild” and thus, both their lines could unite, as had been the case with their father’s and their late uncle Jason.

The gods had, once again, smiled upon House Lannister.

Chapter Text

Alric had come back with two dozen Manderly guards. His granduncle did not trust that his own maester hadn’t sent word south already, so it was decided that Northlight Keep had to be manned up.

Unfortunately, bad news had reached that same day: the men send to retake Winterfell were all dead. That included their men: old Benefren and the rest of the guards were dead. The bastard son of lord Bolton had been able to handle the Squids at the very least…but that didn’t mean it they had gotten good news. Alva cried a lot once he told her the news, as she would a lot of lately. He could not cry for them. He was the man of the castle. It would not do well if he cried for the men he had knew since he was a little boy…

Things at least calmed down a bit after his return. Alva would bug him to let the Kingslayer walk out from time to time, but he refused. She insisted that she would remain with him in his room, then. After all, she was now a Lannister….

Alric couldn’t understand how she could say that with a smile on her face.

That didn’t last for long at least: they could both be stubborn, but Alva decided to be reasonable once the Maester said that not staying all day in the room would be good for the babe. At least she would be out for a few hours. Not that Alric could join her for much, he was busy handling the harvest, and other matters. Winter was nearly there, and most of their men had gone south. It would not be easy.

It was strange to go look for her in the room that had been turned into a luxurious cell. He would rather do it himself, less she try to lie to a guard or a servant again. Alric found it strange when the Kingslayer flinched once when he came in, as his…good brother had his sword hand on his sister’s belly. Lannister (not Alva, the other one) just stared at him, but did not say a word. Something had to be wrong, for sure.

“What’s wrong with your husband?” Alric asked, once they were going down the stairs.

“What do you mean?” She asked, puzzled.

“He looked at me as if I caught him after killing someone “strange, and he would expect something like that from him, of course “why was he even touching your belly?”

“I thought I felt the baby kick and wanted to show him. You just forgot to knock before coming in “his sister shrugged “that was not polite “

“He is a prisoner, not a guest. Why would I knock in the first place?” If it was up to him, he would have thrown him into the worst cell possible, but the castle’s dungeons were known to have prisoners freeze if it snowed. Seeing who the Kingslayer was, that meant giving him a room. Alric still cursed himself for that luck “the baby can kick?”

“He is my husband” his sister answered. Don’t remind me… “yes, they do. You would too when you were on mother’s belly, and a lot of. Especially if we talked to you…but Jaime said it’s too early, it was probably my imagination “

“What does he even know about it?” Alric knew about the rumors. Everyone did. The Kingslayer had gotten his own sister pregnant three times…. yet he fancied Alva, for some reason.

“He is an uncle and also has a little brother” that did make sense, he had to admit it. But wouldn’t, of course, at least not out loud. He did not have any love for his good brother, never would. 

“And…do you think I could feel the baby kick too?” Alric was curious about his unborn nephew, even if it was a Lannister. He was the youngest and, while he had seen other pregnant women, had never touched their bellies. How could babies even kick? Would that hurt his sister?

“Jaime says that for now it can be felt, but maybe when the baby does start moving “stupid Lannister, he knew more than he did…Alric would have to talk to their maester, he wanted to at least know that his sister was going to be alright. He did not know much about the matter, unfortunately. After all, his father had never quiet explained it, he felt too embarrassed to ask any of their servants, the guards or his sister, and would rather have the Kingslayer gelded than ask him.

“Ah…interesting…” he allowed his sister to walk by herself around the castle, it was her home after all.

Alric wished she was smarter. He wanted to yell at her so much for having made such stupid choices.  But Alva was the only sibling he had left.  He couldn’t afford to lose her…

It worried him that father had not written back at all. King Robb had not gotten angry, it seemed, and even sent a letter congratulating his sister (and only her, not the Kingslayer, thankfully) for her marriage. Of course, it seemed that was women from the Lannister’s land had made him fall for her. Curse the damn lions.

She was stubborn, of course, and would from time-to-time to request that he allowed the Kingslayer to walk with her, just for a short time. Her belly was a bit bigger, as two moons had passed after the wedding. The maester did note that her womb looked bigger than expected for that time and suspected that she could be having twins.

Gods be good, was she really having a lion litter? Alva did look a bit worried, which managed to surprise him. He tried to comfort her, as they walked the stairs down to the backyard, but she assured him she was fine.

But then she tripped and nearly fell. Alric barely managed to catch her. She was heavier now, much for his dismay. It made sense, of course. One of the maids heard them and went to help the siblings. The maester checked Alva, which did concern Alric, who had no idea of why that was even necessary.

“A pregnant woman falling could potentially kill the child “ maester William explained, once he made sure Alva was all right and two guards made sure she returned with her husband “it could also end badly for the mother, as taking a dead child out is not easy, and in lady Alva’s case, it seems that she could be carrying twins, which would complicate matters. The grief could also affect her as well.”

Gods be good, he would need someone strong enough to walk with her. The maids were all women, they were not an option, they were not strong enough to make sure she wouldn’t fall. The guards were now mostly Manderly men, their orders were to guard the castle, and the few that were theirs knew the place better, so they couldn’t be asked to help his sister. Alric was busy, running the castle and training,and he had barely managed to catch in the first place,  and the Maester was helping him…

The gods really hated him, didn’t they? He only had one option left.

Chapter Text

Alva could feel her child growing, slowly. A fortnight after the wedding, and after having cried more than enough tears for their lost men, she could eat as she normally would, not having to be worried about vomiting her food anymore. By then, however, her stomach had grown more, and she had to get new clothes that would fit her better. Luckily, there were plenty dresses that had once belonged to her mother.

She had refused to go out for a while, of course. Alva couldn’t just leave her poor husband in there, all alone. The maester said it would be good for their child, and she considered…Jaime convinced her it was a good idea.

“The babe could use some sun, even if he has northern blood. Go outside, little wench. I won’t die if you take your eyes off me “Jaime had reassured her. And so, she did walk outside, but she still couldn’t be with Alric much, as he was busy running the castle.

Mostly, she would go to the Gods’ wood and pray for the baby’s health, as well as for her dead brother. She would also visit the kitchen, as her appetite had come back, thankfully, and lemon cakes were always available for her.

“You might be having twins, m’lady” the cook told her once “twin girls, I say. They crave the same sweets their mom do, and are making you bigger than you should “

The small folk could have very curious thoughts, but Alva didn’t mind as she got more lemon cakes thanks to that.

Alva swore she felt her baby kick one morning, as she was trying to get her clothes on. They were starting to get much smaller now, it seemed…” I think I felt our child move“ she told her husband.

“Already?” Jaime looked puzzled “it’s too early for it, little wench. “but she nodded

“It felt…weird” she spoke softly, trying to find the right words.

“May I?” Her husband didn’t have to ask, she nodded. Jaime put his hand on her belly, trying to feel their child. It seemed their baby was too shy. “Maybe it was your imagination. It happens, Cersei would think the same when she was expecting Joffrey, perhaps it happens to first time mothers “

Oh, he was such a good uncle. It was a shame that his (now hers as well) nephew was Joffrey Baratheon. She did not like to think ill of her new family, but she held no love for the boy. Good gods, poor Sansa was engaged to him...

Alric then came in to take her to the maester. Maester William explained that he would need to touch her stomach to know how the child was doing, as her pregnant belly looked bigger than expected.

“You might be carrying twins” he announced. Alva was shocked.

Birthing one child was already a worry she had, but two babies? Gods be good, she was scared…but excited, if she had to be completely honest.

It was often that she would wonder how difficult such a birth would be. She had heard her mother’s it had scared her. It was different if she was birthing a child by her love, but two…

She had drifted off to her thoughts, as she often did. Usually, Alva would have no issues by doing so. But pregnancy was changing her body, making it harder to move. So the girl missed a step…

She panicked, trying to find where to grab herself from, but to no avail. Alric barely managed to catch her. One of their older maids, Allys, did hear and rushed to their aid. They took the girl to the maester, who gently told her she needed to be more careful from now on.

That scared her enough to stay quiet as the guards helped her go back to their room. She was worried, the fall could have killed their babies… She didn’t know what she would do if she where to lose her children. But she did not want to worry her husband, who had to spend all day alone in his room.

“Jaime!” The girl called for him smiling as she returned to their room, trying not to give him reasons to worry. Alva had to be brave, she might be giving her husband two beautiful babies, and shouldn’t make him worry about her clumsiness “the maester thinks we are having twins!” But how could they even tell their gender? Maybe it was two boys, or a girl and a boy, just like Jaime and his sister.

“Twins?” Her husband seemed shocked, looking for the right words to tell her.

She nodded “like you and your dear sister. I hope they are as close as you are, if we do have “

Jaime didn’t seem to know what to say. Her poor husband, the news also surprised him. But he, once again, put his hands on her “well, we shall see, little wench. Don’t worry much for now “

Alva decided to listen to Jaime, but still had her doubts. Two babies…would she have enough milk to feed them both? How would she know which one was which? Do twins need names that rhymed? Perhaps not, Jaime and Cersei’s name were proof of it.

Alric came in later to see them both, surprisingly. Jaime and she were still trying to see if the babies would move, with Alva sitting on the bed and her husband next to her, but he took his hand off her belly as soon as the door opened. Her little brother did not seem to get along with him, unfortunately.

“What do you want?” Jaime asked, letting go of her for a moment.

“I’m just here to speak to my sister “her brother mumbled “why do you keep doing that, Lannister?”

“Doing what?” Alva would do that in purpose, her brother seemed to forget that she was a Lannister now

“Not you! Your husband “but he couldn’t use Kingslayer, she had asked Alric not to. “Why do you act like I caught you stealing something, why I simply caught you with your hand on my sister’s belly? You were just trying to see if the baby moved, didn’t you? “

“Alric, watch your tone! “She told him. He could forget his manners sometimes

“You simply don’t knock, my lord “ Jaime answered. He was right “You could end up catching us in a less appropriate situation if you keep that up, mayhaps you should consider asking next time”.

Her brother rolled his eyes. “I’m so sorry, I will knock next time so I don’t offend my kind Lannister guests” Alric complained “Alva, look…” he sat next to her, and wanted to speak, but..

She felt a light pressure, right on her stomach. A gentle thump, very soft, but firm at the same time, was tapping inside of her. The sensation caught her by surprise. If Alva had to compare it to anything, it would be like a heartbeat inside her belly. Nothing like all the other times before: she was very sure this time, that indeed their child (or perhaps, children) had kicked.

“I felt the babies kick!” Alva exclaimed. Now she was sure of it “They are still kicking!” it was constant, it seemed they wanted to be noticed.

“He did ?” Alric rushed to put his hand on her belly, much to her surprise “the baby is kicking ! Doesn’t that hurt?”

“Not at all “she answered, smiling. Alva remembered being excited, just like Dravor, when they felt Alric kick in their mother’s belly. Just like he was doing now. Her brother was as curious as she and her elder brother had been. She missed him so much…

“I would also like to feel my children kick, good brother “Jaime was the father, after all. Alric did not remove his hand.

“The babe moved as soon as I came here, maybe he likes me more “she was sure Alric was close to stick his tongue out, he could be childish.

“Please brother, let Jaime feel our baby” she asked, he would be able to tell if she was right after all. Alric pouted but complied. Jaime put his hand in the same spot.

He smiled “I guess you were right, little wench “

“Don’t call my sister like that” Alric complained.

“I don’t mind “Alva protested, she liked when he called her like that quite a lot.

“Do you even know what it means?” Alric asked. Alva looked at him, puzzled. Why would he even ask such a question?

“Of course, it’s the women who serve at taverns. Dravor told me “She answered.

Alric and Jaime glanced at each other, weirdly enough. Jaime chuckled, Alric, however, did not look very happy. He took a deep breath, and only looked at her.

“Alva…there is something I need to speak to you about. After your accident, I think I have reconsidered some things “she hadn’t told Jaime about it yet…

Chapter Text

His wife’s belly had grown quite large, more than Cersei’s ever had. It could be that Alva was a tiny, freckled thing, of course. It could be that she was finally back to eating real food, instead of oats. The smell of sausages would not make her sick anymore, at the very least. Her dresses now seemed not to fit her much, and her cute, freckled breasts had been getting larger as well.

The girl was stubborn. She tried for weeks to get the boy lord to let him go out. The lad had more sense than his sister, he had to admit, as he had refused her. The little wench stated that, as his wife, she would stay locked as well.

Of course he had enjoyed fucking her sweet cunt and picturing his beautiful sister on her place, but the girl was unnecessarily punishing herself. Alva was certainly not the brightest, it was clear to everyone who met her. That meant Jaime had to take good care of her, made sure some reason got through her thick skull.

He was able to get her to listen to the maester’s advice, of course. She was already considering going out anyways, and it was not like the man was telling her a lie. Besides, he could use some time by himself…

But he would be anxiously waiting for his little wife to come back to his side. Alva was clumsy, he had seen it. What if she fell? Would the boy lord be by her side at all times? Would he even be able to help her if it came to that? It was the child that worried him…but he did not want to see her cry. Her soft blue eyes full of tears were a pitiful sight, one he wished never to see again.

“I think I felt our child move “Jaime heard the girl tell him one morning. Could it be?

“Already?” It was her first pregnancy, she could have been mistaken. It was nearly four moons, however, so it could be…

“It felt…weird” Alva’s voice sounded painfully innocent.

It had been her fault that they were in such a situation, yet he still wanted to be as gently as possible “May I?” Cersei wouldn’t always allow him to touch her pregnant belly, at times she’d push him away. He had learned to ask beforehand. His wife nodded.

Jaime put his sword hand in the spot he had seen his wife caressing. The child, had he kicked, would surely do so again in the same place. But he didn’t feel a thing “maybe it was your imagination. It happens, Cersei would think the same when she was expecting Joffrey, perhaps it’s a thing of first-time mothers “

He would not risk telling that to another soul. But Alva was easy to fool, she’d just brush it off as him being a good uncle and brother. He did not move his hand, Jaime wanted to wait for one more second, see if the girl had truly felt something...

The door had suddenly opened, and Jaime moved his hand away. His instinct, had that happened back in King’s Landing, would have been to try to have the servant silenced, as Cersei was afraid it could lead to rumors…but it was just his good brother.

Jaime stared at the boy. Alric would come to take his sister outside, seemingly not trusting anyone else for that job. He knew the lad, and everyone in the castle, was aware that the child was his. But part of him still seemed to think that it was a fact that should be kept a secret.

The child was his. It was strange to think that, unlike his three other children, everyone would know that the babe Alva would birth was his. The girl was joyful about it…

Once Alva came back, she gave him an announcement.

“Twins?” Twins. A soul split in two. He had come to the world holding Cersei’s ankle, according to their maester.

His wife nodded “like you and your dear sister. I hope they are as close as you are, if we do have “Perhaps the same could happen to their children, if they were a boy and a girl. He would make sure they got married, if that was the case.

“Well, we shall see, little wench. Don’t worry much for now “ Twins…no wonder her belly was so large. Children that, even in the womb, were fated to be together…he gently put his hand on her once again, but still did not have the luck to feel them.

He insisted on trying once again, as the sun was about to go away, but, just as he had put his hand on her, the boy lord had arrived. Alric Nielsen did not know how to knock, it seemed. Maybe if he was to caught Jaime fucking his dear sister, he would learn to do it. Just as fast as the first time, he took his hand off the girl.

Alva would remind her brother that she was a Lannister now, much to his good brother’s peril. Jaime couldn’t help but to smile “Not you! Your husband “his little wife had asked him not to call him Kingslayer, and the boy had listened “Why do you act like I caught you stealing something, why I simply caught you with your hand on my sister’s belly? You were just trying to see if the baby moved, didn’t you? “ the way his soft blue eyes looked at him were more fit for someone who had caught a murderer or a raper, at the very least.

You are wise enough to know these aren’t my first children, my lord. You know exactly who are,  too bad your sister is too stubborn to believe it, even if I were to tell her the truth myself. And you also know that I once had good reasons to not want anyone catching me with my hands on a pregnant woman, least my sweet sister and I ended up hanged by that drunk idiot.

His sweet wife bickered with the boy for not being courteous enough. Jaime had to admit he felt some pity for the boy, his sister surely had to be giving him headaches.

“You simply don’t knock, my lord “Jaime answered, which he knew wasn’t the best explanation. The boy lord probably knew too “You could end up catching us in a less appropriate situation if you keep that up, mayhaps you should consider asking next time” that part was true enough

The boy rolled his eyes. “I’m so sorry, I will knock next time so I don’t offend my kind Lannister guests” Alric complained “Alva, look…” he sat next to her, trying not to get close to his dear good brother, but the girl spoke before he did.

“I felt the babies kick!” She exclaimed, her voice sure of it “They are still kicking!”

Before Jaime even had the chance to feel it himself, the boy lord had moved his hand.

“I would also like to feel my children kick, good brother “Alric did not remove his hand. You fucking brat, they are my children, not yours. For once I get to be the father.

He considered punching the boy lord again, now that his bruise had healed. But some begging by Alva worked well enough. Jaime put his hand on the same spot

And sure enough, one of the babes was kicking. It was soft, as they would still be too small, but it could be felt. My children. Not Robert’s…

He smiled “I guess you were right, little wench “that caused a fuss as his good brother did not appreciate that he would call his wife like that…who thought there was only a meaning to the word. Jaime had indeed meant the serving type but had assumed she knew about the other one. His laughter died out when his good brother spoke of an accident.

“Alva, what happened?” He was concerned, the girl wouldn’t keep something like that to herself. Could she had fallen ? Unlikely, she would have cried her eyes out in that case.

“I…I slipped, in the stairs. Alric managed to catch me “Father Above help him, that could have killed the children “I didn’t want to worry you…” of course he was worried. Gods, such a fool…

“I barely could, you are too heavy for me to handle…” no doubt, the girl was taller than he was. And heavier, as she was carrying two babes “I was thinking that…maybe your husband could…”

“I’m right here, good brother “he did not know why it bothered him that much that his wife had kept that a secret “I expect my wife to be well cared for when she’s outside. If I must do it myself, then I will. “He did crave to go outside, but now he was more worried for his babes, as well as her sake.

“I’m talking with my sister… “Kingslayer. The boy wanted to say it, call him like that with all his bitter venom. One that Jaime knew he deserved, but for making him the heir to the castle. The girl would say it was a war, but she would cry when thinking of her late brother.

“Jaime already answered, Alric “the girl held his hand. She would side with him every time.

“I guess he did “the boy lord grumbled “you can’t leave the castle walls, of course.  Go to the gods wood and the yard, anywhere else inside…but…good brother…” wouldn’t you rather pull out your tongue ?”don’t dare to even try to run for the gates. Lord Manderly gave me more men to guard here, and they would try to stop you by any means necessary…I will tell them you are allowed to walk with my sister.”

Such a kind good brother he had…

Chapter Text

The Manderly guards, as expected, were not pleased when he gave the order to allow the Kingslayer to walk with his sister around the castle. But, even if they disliked the idea, it was not unheard to allow such liberties to prisoners. They were aware: according to some letters by her sister’s new good father, his father’s cousin and Lord Manderly’s Heir, Ser Wylis, was allowed to freely roam Harenhall. But even then, allowing a prisoner to marry the daughter of the castle was perhaps too much for most.

Especially for him “I hold even less love for the Kingslayer than any of you could do. My own brother was killed by his sword, if I might kindly remind you, but I love my sister more than I hate her husband. Your orders are to make sure he does not escape the castle, not to prevent him from walking around the castle” he had declared after the guards tried to argue with him.

It helped that most of them were old men who no doubt were too tired and honorable to go against his and Lord Manderly’s words. They were required to stop Lannister from escaping the castle, not to stop him from walking about it, and they knew it.

Alric did not like the thought of allowing him out, either. But Alva and her babe (or babes, if she truly was having twins) at least deserved to walk around without fearing a fall that could harm them. Still, it would help a lot if he did not have to see Jaime Lannister’s stupid smile when he would go to allow them out.

“It’s very kind of you to open the door for us, good brother “the Kingslayer smiled sharply as he allowed Alva to hold his arm. His sister was looking at him like the man was some kind of treasure.

Ugh, women. His poor sister looked like an idiot smiling in such a way. But she was safe, at the very least. He decided it would be better to keep his guards in and the Manderlys out whenever Alva and her husband were out, even if everyone in the castle but her wished they could have him hanged.

Alric hated the man. He had spent more time than he had wanted near Lannister (the lion, not his sister, she would always be an owl in his eyes) when helping him prepare for the wedding. It had been for Alva’s sake, least she risk having the maester slip moon tea into her drink, but that did not mean he had to like the man. Just tolerate his presence.

Something Alric realized he could not do well enough, as soon as he found himself thinking if the guards could be fooled into thinking the Kingslayer was trying to escape and see how he fared against their swords and tridents while unarmed. As unfortunate as it sounded, he decided it would be best to imitate the example of his father, and keep himself busy instead of risking running into the couple. Northlight Keep was, after all, a small castle. And it was simple to find something else to do, seeing winter was approaching and there was still a lot to do.

The needs of the smallfolk always needed to be attended. Most of them were either as young as he was or even more so, as well women and men who couldn’t go to fight, whether because of their old age or because they were crippled. Their lands didn’t have much people anyways, but Alric decided he could occupy himself by saddling his horse and going off to ride with a couple of men, seeing how the harvests were progressing. So, he ordered their maester to go outside with him as well.

Beets seemed to be harvesting well enough, more than other crops were, thank the gods. He would often be made fun by his sister and his brother for liking them, but their flavor was not as bad as people would claim.

Riding on his palfrey, a stallion he had dumbly named Spots back when he was nine, due to the white spots on his black fur, Alric sighed as he recalled how it was like to ride with his siblings. Alva owned one as well, a black mare called Night, but Dravor claimed she would be better suited with a mule, as stubborn as her. He thought his older brother was right now more than ever. His brother had owned a destrier, who would sometimes try to bite others. The horse was grey and had been named Tempest. Alric wondered what had been of it, as his brother was now dead. He hoped that the horse was happy and well…

A stupid memory came back to him. Dravor would sometimes complain that the Kingslayer had named his horse after him, as Alva gave him that idea. That would often end with her getting angry or throwing a snowball at him. But that had been so many years ago, Alric would have never expected his sister to still have feelings for the man. Much less after he’d killed their brother.

Would Dravor have allowed such a marriage? Would he had sent the Kingslayer to the wall, or in pieces back to the south? Maybe he’d have him gelded or send his sword hand to his dead father…Alric knew his brother would have yelled at Alva, used harsher words that she need to hear, but also make it clear to the maester that under no circumstances she should be given moon tea.

Did Alva feel anything for their brother at all? He’d seen her cry. But she had left the moment the maester read who killed him…she knew. Everyone knew. How had she even managed to forgive him…. Gods, he wanted to yell at her. Yell at the Kingslayer.

He was helping some smallfolk decide an inheritance matter. They barely had anything to inherit in the same place, just some sheep, but it was their most important possession. He had to keep his head focused on that. And when winter arrived, nothing would be more precious than the sheep.

Another day, he simply rode his horse. He really did not seem to know where to go, he just kept ordering Spots to run. His guards had long been left behind. He rode and rode… and cried. Warm tears slid down his cheeks. Tears for his brother. Maybe even tears for his mother. Tears for Alva, his dumb sister who lacked any sense. It was not that late, but he heard a noise…

“HOOT” an owl. At least this one was not in the castle….a white owl. He swore it had soft blue eyes for a second, but dried his tears and they were yellow again. The owl tilted its head while staring at him and then flew away.

Gods, he had no idea of to where he had ridden off too. His guards barely managed to catch him “my lord, maybe we should go back” his poor horse was too tired, it seemed…

Alric decided that it would be wise to stop horse riding for a fortnight or two. And he had other matters to attend. A raven had arrived that night: Sansa Stark had married the Imp. He briefly told his sister, as she had been fond of Sansa. She was so pretty, with her auburn hair and deep blue eyes. Alric had thought she was pretty and wished to marry her, but of course, as a second son and from such a minor house, he was smart enough not to fall in love with her. But even then, he was angry that poor Sansa had married a Lannister. So, he decided that he wanted to practice with his sword that day.

Dravor was gone. Old Benefren was gone. The castle’s guards were now even fewer. He had to practice by himself, of course. The practice dummies were old. He would rather have his brother, but at least those remained.

They remained in place as he slashed furiously with his sword. Lightwarden had been a gift by his late brother, but he had never used it in battle. He couldn’t go to his first one…and that might have saved his life. Alric hated that, by hitting him, the Kingslayer had stopped from him going. He wasn’t going to thank the man, of course. It was his and his damn son’s fault that everything in his life and in the north had gone so badly.

Alric paid no mind to anyone or anything at that moment. He was three and ten already. He was a man. He was the man of the castle. He had to practice his sword fighting, become a warrior. And he had to do it alone.

When he had heard footsteps approaching, he assumed that perhaps it was one of the Manderly guards. Perhaps one had taken enough pity to offer to train him. He did not want any pity…

“Good brother, perhaps I could help you practice?” but that voice made it clear that the man wasn’t a Manderly guard. It was the Kingslayer.

Chapter Text

Alva had been very excited that Jaime was finally allowed to walk outside with her. She would hold him by his arm, as he helped her to get down the stairs. She had so much to show him…but not could not go as fast as she wished, however.

“I want to go to pray” Alva spoke softly the first day. She had so much to thank her gods for, and had already done so, but wanted to go with her husband. They had married in front of the tree, in front of her gods, after all.

“Are you sure, little wench?” Jaime asked, perhaps it did not seem safe enough for her.

Alva nodded. At first, she hoped they’d cross paths with Alric, but the guards told them her brother was busy, checking on the smallfolk. Alva found she could no longer kneel by herself to pray and tried to get her husband to help.

“Maybe it’s not a good idea” he had told her.

“I can’t pray without kneeling “ Alva spoke. She was sure it wouldn’t be much of a problem…”I did it just a few days ago, it will be fine, it’s just for a second. If you could just help me to do so… “

“Your belly is too big for it, I’m sure the gods will understand “her husband insisted. “You nearly suffered a fall . Don’t forget that “Alva sighed and relented, standing as she prayed to her gods. Some owls could be heard hooting, quite a lot lived on those forests.

“How come you northerns don’t have priests?” Jaime asked, once she was done.

“Why would we need them? Our gods are right here “ but perhaps she was offending his gods…”the seven speak through septons and septas, but the weirdwood is what ours use. “The gods had answered her prayer for a child. Had done so twice, it seemed, and for her it was more than enough proof that they were there.

Alric had told them that they could be outside until midday, so there was still something else she had liked to do but needed to pick some flowers. Her older brother had been fond of them and would occasionally pick them up for the girl who he had been betrothed to. Strangely, when the same girl came for their wedding, she seemed to have avoided Alva…

“One like this?” Jaime inquired, after she asked him to pick a winter lily. Alva smiled and nodded as they walked to their crypts, “why do your dead lay beneath your castle?”

“It’s not easy to dig graves, so most castles here in the north have a crypt “but none as elaborate as the one the Stark’s had, not even the Bolton’s could boast about it. She wondered if their crypts still remained there, with the Winter Kings of old.

Theirs did not have their mother, who had been given to the sea. It had her ancestors, it had Dravor. She had not visited ever since they had put his bones to lay on the crypt. Alva had prayed for him, for his forgiveness, maybe it was time to at least see him. The crypt’s door was always open, after all…

Alva froze before she could even set a foot on it. She loved Jaime, more than anyone, but…he was the reason Dravor was dead after all. It was a war, she knew it. In a war, in the battlefield, no one could see what was happening. Her husband had tried to kill King Robb, not her brother. But would the old gods understand that? Had Dravor forgiven her, for marrying his killer? For carrying his children?

"I will send your regards to the Kingslayer, freckles “she could still remember the last day she had seen her older brother. He had teased her, as always. Dravor was excited about marching down south.

I told you to pray to the gods if he came anywhere near you…. I wanted to see you again, brother. Why did you try to fight Jaime? You always said you’d beat him. I knew you couldn’t, but you never listened to me. Why couldn’t you just stay here with us, instead of going with father? We would rather have lost father than losing you…You were the one who taught me and Alric how to ride a horse, who would protect us at night when we were scared. Not him. He did not love us.

Have you forgiven me, brother? Will you ever? Jaime didn’t not mean to kill you, I know as much. We are having babies, I’m sure they would have loved to meet their uncle. May I come down to see you?”

She heard a raven cry, and an owl’s hoot “maybe we should return another day…” she mumbled, clutching to her husband’s arm as she saw they raven fly too low for her own comfort.

“Your house’s sigil is an owl, I didn’t expect a simple raven would scare you “ she heard Jaime laughing

The air coming out of the crypt felt too cold, colder than anything she’d ever felt. Jaime tried to walk, but she grabbed him and shook her head “I don’t think it’s a good idea…”she spoke softly “ I could fall…”Alva tried to lie. That could make him change his mind

“I will hold you tight, my little wife. Don’t tell me you are afraid of the ghosts of your own family" he asked with a teasing smile, ever so charming. She tried to smile, but refused to take another step. 

“Jaime, I’m not feeling well enough…” it was nowhere near close to mid-day, but she did not feel like staying there anymore. 

“I will protect you, it’s alright “she knew Jaime would not let anything bad happen to her or the babies, but even then, she shook her head, and the lilies felt heavier than they should.

Gods be good, did her eyes had tears? She hoped Jaime wouldn’t notice….Alva tried to dry them.

“Let’s just go back to the castle, please “Alva begged with a soft voice. Her husband relented. She turned away, clutching the lilies so tightly that their stems crushed in her hands. She didn’t want to look back…

.

They did not go back to the crypts the next day, Jaime thankfully didn’t press the matter any further. Alva craved for some lemon cakes, she decided it was better to go fetch some than back to the crypts. It would be better to eat, now that perhaps she was eating for three, and hadn’t been able to do so the weeks before.

“The cook has been working here since my dad was a boy, she is very kind. You should try asking her for something “she had told Jaime as they left the kitchen, both with lemon cakes.

“I think this will be enough “her husband assured her. It seemed that Alric was not there again, he had been busy with the smallfolk once more. As of later, he was always busy, it seemed. But it was natural, with winter coming soon enough

.

“A raven just came; Sansa Stark has married the Imp” Alric had told her the next night, but left before she could ask him even more.

Sansa? The poor girl…she was all alone in King’s Landing. Her husband was kind, but his nephew was not. He had spoken well of his younger brother, but Alva needed to be reassured.

“What did your brother want?” Jaime asked as he laid in their bed. It was late already, at least this time Alric had the sense to knock…

“Your dear brother Tyrion married Lady Sansa” she told her husband as she laid next to him.

“Sansa Stark?” Jaime asked again, and Alva nodded.

“My love…” he was indeed her love, and her husband “do you think your brother will be a good husband for Sansa?”

“Tyrion will make sure she is happy, and that she never has any needs “Jaime assured her “she can keep you company in the Rock”

She had to admit that the idea of having Sansa as a good sister did excite her. Alva had been fond of the girl, who was marveled at by her golden crown, and thought it was from a romantic tale. Whether it was her family traveling to Winterfell or the Starks going to see them, Sansa was the one she looked forward to seeing the most. Still, she had heard that her good brother was not as handsome as Jaime, but her husband had told her he had other qualities that other men could only wish to have, including himself. She had to trust Jaime’s words, hope that Sansa was going to be happy in her new marriage. But something about what he said got her attention

Alva tilted her head “in the Rock?” Why would she be there?

“I’m off the inheritance line for Casterly Rock. It will go to Tyrion, Sansa will be his wife, and they shall live there “Jaime had indeed given up his claim, but that’s not what confused her.

“But why would I be going to the Rock?” Alva hadn’t actually thought about that part. She assumed that, since her husband had no inheritance anymore, they could remain living in the north, in her castle…

“It’s better for you to stay there, my little wife. King’s Landing isn’t the best place to raise a child at “that just left her with more questions.

 “I don’t want to leave Northlight Keep. Who will take care of Alric?” she couldn’t just leave him alone.

“Alva, the lad is already three and ten “but he is my little brother, just a boy “What did you think was going to happen once you married? It’s unusual for the wife to remain at her home “

“I…the boy I was betrothed to lived half a day’s ride from here “ Alva admitted. Their family had been unable to come to the wedding. Half a day’s ride, I could always come and visit, or so could my brothers. Casterly Rock is too far away, the trip back home after the Lannisport tourney took more than a fortnight…

“You and the children will be happy living in the Rock, once the war is over. “she wanted to trust Jaime, but the thought of leaving her home… “There’s a Weirdwood tree you can pray at, and Tyrion will surely let you visit your brother once things have calmed “

“But won’t you be with us?” He made it sound like he was going to stay at King’s Landing…

“I will visit, of course . But I’ll remain in the Kingsguard, I’m still the Lord Commander “ Alva wanted to argue with her husband, remind him that Lucamore Strong had been expelled for marrying.

But she felt too tired. She had married Jaime, she could walk with him around her own home. Why wasn’t she feeling happy? She did not say anything else, and simply went to sleep.

She could at least think of living at the Rock, with Sansa as her good sister. The girl was kind and singed with a beautiful voice. Alva could ask her to help her improve her sewings, they could raise their children together…but Sansa wasn’t Alric. If she could choose, she would rather stay north with her little brother.

Her little brother, who had seemed to be avoiding her for the last few days. Alva knew he could get busy, but it seemed it was always during the hours she was out as of lately. She wanted to speak with him…

.

Her brother seemed to have stayed in the castle the next morning, thankfully. She did ask Jaime to go to the kitchens again, this time, oddly enough, she wanted some boiled beets…

“Can we go to the courtyard?” Alva asked her husband softly. She would often be there to see her brothers practice.

“Are you planning to learn how to sword fight?” Jaime teased, but still had no issues complying.

Alric was there, using his sword. Usually he’d use wooden ones, as Dravor and their old master at arms thought he was still not ready for this real one. She did not know if he was, and he seemed not to have noticed Alva was there with her husband, sitting on a bench

“Is there no one who can practice with that little brother of yours?” Jaime asked, making her slide away from her thoughts

“Alric used to practice with our brother and old Benefren…” but both were now dead “most of our guards are gone as well…”

“He does know how to hold the sword, I’ll grant him that. But the way he fights is too clumsy “she could not tell “had he gone to Winterfell-“

“He would have died “Alva knew that much. She did not like to see her brother get hurt, but it was better for him to have a bruised eye and a split lip for a few weeks than his life taken “I knew all the men we lost, ever since I was a little girl. Yet…I’m glad it’s them we lost, and not my little brother. Had I lost him too…” her father was still fighting south, but she still wouldn’t miss him as much.

“But you didn’t “Jaime held her hand softly “don’t think about it, Alva. Worrying too much can’t be good for the babes “

She tried not to cry “I don’t want to leave him alone, Jaime. He is my little brother, the only family I have left…”

“Crying won’t solve anything “her husband spoke, but sighed “stay here, alright, Alva? I will make sure your brother at least can defend himself “she wasn’t sure what he meant by that, until Alva saw him walking towards Alric.

“Jaime, maybe-“she wasn’t sure how good of an idea that was, but her brother was now starring at her.

Chapter Text

His little wife had acted quite strangely once he had taken her to the crypts. Jaime had found some beautiful winter lilies, just as she had asked. If he was honest, northerns did not have a good place to be laid once dead, but he couldn’t blame the girl for wanting to visit her brother.

But she had stopped walking, as soon as they were right outside of it. What had gotten into his wife?

“Maybe we should return another day…” the girl’s grip tightened around his arm just as a raven flew past.

“Your house’s sigil is an owl, I didn’t expect a simple raven would scare you “Jaime laughed, he swore she had jumped a bit. It wasn’t like her to change her mind so suddenly.

“I don’t think it’s a good idea…” the girl spoke softly “ I could fall…”Jaime had to admit he did not think it was safe for his pregnant wife to go to such an eerie place, and her fears were in the right place. Yet, she had been eager to put the flowers in her brother’s grave.

I put him there, my lady. We both know that. But he was your brother, don’t punish yourself because of me. That’s what he wanted to tell her, the girl was still grieving, but at least not crying. Finding the right words for it, however, was not precisely an easy task.

“I will hold you tight, my little wife. “she was already doing most of holding, however. “Don’t tell me you are afraid of the ghosts of your own family" the warrior give him strength, what had gotten into her?

“Jaime, I’m not feeling well enough…” he heard her mumble, her voice shaking. It couldn’t be that cold for her, Jaime himself had seen colder days.

“I will protect you, it’s alright “could it be her nerves? The idea of going down with her brother’s murderer to pay him a visit might have finally made that little brain of hers react rationally for once in her life.

Her soft blue eyes were full of tears when she looked at him. Jaime thought about drying them away, tho she did so herself before he could.

“Let’s just go back to the castle, please “the girl begged with a soft voice, refusing to stare at the crypts again. Jaime decided it was better to do so, even if it had been a while since he had been allowed to walk outside. His wife could use some rest, after all. 

.

“Jaime, can we go to the kitchens?” Alva didn’t seem to be eager to go to the crypts the next day.  

But seeing how little she had been eaten up until the last week…” where?” He asked, and his wife cheerfully told him.

Compared to the ones in every single other castle he had been at, the ones at his wife’s castle were humble. Still, the smells that came from there were appetizing enough, which helped to ignore the glares the old woman who worked was giving him.

“Here are some for your lord husband as well “the girl was loved by the castle’s servants, thankfully, and as the cakes were already done, so he could safely eat them.

“The cook has been working here since my dad was a boy, she is very kind. You should try asking her for something “his wife told him once they left the kitchens.

Not unless you want me to get poisoned “I think this will be enough “At the very least, the woman could try spitting on his food. He had killed one of their lordlings, punched the other and fucked their lady, no doubt they all hated him.

He didn’t have any doubts, as the guards and maids would sharply glance as he walked freely around the castle, the girl happily clinging to his arm and oblivious to it . Your lord didn’t think some simple maids could have the strength to hold my beautiful wife. He is wrong, but he is just a boy. Who am I to correct the lord of the castle? I might as well enjoy these few hours of freedom, and make sure my wife and our babes enjoy theirs too.

.

It was already late when he felt his wife leave his side. Jaime didn’t notice when he had put his arm around her in the first place…

Jaime had heard the boy lord’s voice, but not what he had said. This time his good brother at least was smart enough to knock, even if they were not fucking.  “What did your brother want?” He asked as his wife returned to his side.

“Your dear brother Tyrion married Lady Sansa” Alva answered.

“Sansa Stark?” That ought to put a smile on Tyrion’s face. He remembered how happy his brother had been with his little crofter’s daughter…for a fortnight. His wife nodded.

“My love…” I can’t call you ‘my love’, dear wife, as my heart belongs to Cersei. She is the one who I have loved ever since I was born, tho I at least can say I care for you. Do yourself a favor and don’t call me like that “do you think your brother will be a good husband for Sansa?”

The question would have angered him, had it been done by someone else. Tyrion had loved his first wife. He would care for the she wolf “Tyrion will make sure she is happy, and that she never has any needs “Jaime knew that much. He had told his wife about his brother before, he expected her to at least have some faith in him “she can keep you company in the Rock “perhaps that could also calm her a bit. 

His wife tilted her head, her soft blue eyes full of confusion “in the Rock?”

“I’m off the inheritance line for Casterly Rock. It will go to Tyrion, Sansa will be his wife, and they shall live there “Jaime had given up his claim, after all. It was only natural that his brother and good sister would be the lord and lady of the Rock.

“But why would I be going to the Rock?” My dear fool, why would you want to raise our children in King’s Landing? May The Mother guide you.

“It’s better for you to stay there, my little wife . King’s Landing isn’t the best place to raise a child at “they would fare better in the Rock, surrounded by any children Tyrion had, as well as his own cousins. His aunt Genna might even be able to put some sense into the girl.

 “I don’t want to leave Northlight Keep. Who will take care of Alric?” Was his wife serious ?

“Alva, the lad is already three and ten “you are right, he is just a boy, but you can’t stay here, once the war is done “What did you think was going to happen once you married? It’s unusual for the wife to remain at her home “his aunt did, simply because his grandsire had married her to a second son of lord Frey. Alva was his wife, his lord Father would want her to stay at the Rock, perhaps have any children she birthed to marry Tyrion’s own.

“I…the boy I was betrothed to live half a day’s ride from here “she was of a minor house, of course her marriage prospects hadn’t been that great. Casterly Rock was a bit too far for her liking, it seemed.

“You and the children will be happy living in the Rock, once the war is over. “Why was he bothering to explain himself that much? It was her dream to marry him, she should know about those small details “There’s a Weirdwood tree you can pray at, and Tyrion will surely let you visit your brother once things have calmed “

“But won’t you be with us?” Was that what troubled her? He did wish to see his children grow, hold them, see that they and their mother were well attended and cared for

“I will visit you, of course . But I’ll remain in the Kingsguard, I’m still the Lord Commander “ he needed to be close to Cersei.  As much as it could hurt his little wife, his sweet sister was his love.

The girl looked at him, maybe she would say something, try to find some words to beg him to be at her side. But she just decided to return to sleep.

He held her closely, putting his hand over her belly. It’s for your own sake, and the babes’, Alva. King’s Landing is no place for children, as your Lord Paramount might have found out. The Rock will keep you safe, Tyrion will care for the three of you. I will visit you, our children will know I’m their father. I can call you my wife, protect you and the babes, make sure you are safe…

The babes kicked his hand “I hope you two will understand “Jaime smiled, his wife already fast asleep “your lady mother would hate King’s Landing. You two are lions, the Rock is your home “

.

Jaime had seen many young lads practice with their swords, and knew every mistake they could make. Alric Nielsen was committing half of them. While training to let out whatever frustrations he had could be fruitful, it would do no good to damage his own sword over it.

He held no love for the boy, and the boy held no love for him. His good brother would have gladly had him die instead of his brother, that he knew.

“I don’t want to leave him alone, Jaime. He is my little brother, the only family I have left…” Alva’s lips shook, perhaps she feared he wouldn’t be able to defend himself.

“Crying won’t solve anything “he sighed. “Stay here, alright, my little wife ? I will make sure your brother at least can defend himself “The things I do for…For what? He wasn’t in love with the girl…

It was for his children. For his wife not to be as uneasy once she went south. Maybe even for the boy lord himself, so he wouldn’t end up buried in the crypt as early as his elder brother had.

The sword sounded as if it was crying, every time it hit the wood. Approaching a boy that loathed him that much as he held a sword was not a clever idea, he had to admit “Good brother, perhaps I could help you practice?”

The boy froze. Jaime did expect to lose a hand once the boy turned around “the others take you, Lannister” he told him, coldly. The boy lord starred at his sister “is Alva alright?”

“Just worried for you” The girl was sitting on the bench he had left her at “I thought you could use guide while practicing, so maybe she will see you are not a boy anymore.”

The boy stared at him in silence, tightening the grip on his sword. Come on, boy. Try to cut me. Even without a sword, I could beat you “Why would I want to practice with you?

“I’m a Kingsguard, good brother. The lord Commander, even if your wolf King captured me before I could give any orders to my fellow brothers” dismissing Selmy had been a terrible choice, however. “You could practice with a wooden opponent, or with a real one who knows how to fight back”

The lord’s jaw tightened. “I don’t need your help. My brother and my men taught me all I need to know”

Jaime chuckled, the boy was a fool “Suit yourself. But I think your sister will still view you as the little boy she has to take care of”

The freckles on his good brother’s face were harder to spot, his cheeks deep red after hearing him speak... “I’m not a boy anymore, Kingslayer”

Jaime tilted his head, smirking at his good brother. “Prove it, my lord. Let’s see if you fight like a man or like a boy.”

The boy glared at him, neither accepting nor declining the offer.

“What’s the matter, good brother?” Jaime asked, not bothering to cover his laugh. “Afraid you’ll embarrass yourself in front of me?”

“I won’t give you a steel sword, Lannister. We shall use wooden swords” he mumbled. At last, he had accepted.

“Wooden swords it is, then.” The boy wasn’t stupid, at least. But Jaime was no longer planning to drag either sibling at sword point: with his wife pregnant, he was afraid it could harm the babes, and if he dragged the boy, she would be left in tears.

Alric quickly went to search for a couple of wooden swords. They could not maim but would still cause bruises in any case. He tossed one to Jaime, who had to pick it by himself. His good brother lacked manners, sadly.

“Attack me, boy” Jaimed ordered. The boy was angry enough to immediately launch himself against the knight. A simple taunt, that’s all it took to get you like that. I don’t want to imagine what you would have done had I spoken about dear Dravor. Dodging his blow could not have been easier, unless his good brother had lacked his right hand that is.

“First lesson” Jaime spoke after hitting the boy on the back “Don’t let your emotions guide your sword. You’ll only get yourself killed. I nearly did, I’m not afraid to admit so. “After cutting through four northern lordlings, that is “Come at me again.”

“Shut up” Alric snapped, still glaring at Jaime, whining from the hit “I know how to fight”

I’m sure your brother thought the same. It is a shame my sword cut his belly before he understood he couldn’t. Jaime didn’t even know how the elder sibling had looked like. Perhaps another freckled, pale blonde boy with soft blue eyes.

“Well, fight then” Jaime saw his little wife starring at them, and winked at Alva. The girl’s face turned a bright red. That gave him an idea “Aw your beautiful sister: she blushes as pink as a maid, but squirms like a weasel when I bed her…” Let’s see if you truly understood the lesson.

He hadn’t “FUCK YOU!” Alric yelled, redder than before. At least he didn’t add Kingslayer into the insult, tho Jaime heard his wife scolding her brother for such language. She might not have heard what Jaime had said. The boy’s swings were erratic, full of anger. Jaime had no issue dodging or blocking them, barely even having to move.

His opponent, on the other hand, kept having to change his movements, dance around him, trying to strike with all his fury while Jaime would give him soft blows. He could do worse, but his wife could worry.

Alric’s movements slowed down minute after minute, barely able to breath. Jaime stepped in close, and with a single blow, was able to knock Alric’s weapon from his hands. The wooden blade clattered to the ground, leaving the boy defenseless. He tried to speak but was unable to.

“And that, my dear good brother,” Jaime gave him a light tap against his chest, “is why you don’t let your emotions guide your blade. A real enemy will see it and cut you down before you even know you’ve lost. You’ll have to do better if you want her to stop worrying over you. He helped the boy to walk towards the bench the little wench was at. Alric did allow it, he was tired after all.

“Oh Alric…” his wife might think he was more of a boy now. Jaime ruffled his hair, just to mess with the lad, but did have to recognize one thing…

 “Most squires and some knights would have had a harder time keeping up with me.” That much was true “he did well…rest a bit, good brother” it was not like he had an option. Jaime’s wife took his arm. It was midday, and they had to return to their room.

As they did, his wife kissed his cheek “thank you for helping him” Alva smiled. That was his reward for having to put up with the brat he called good brother? That did not seem fair.

 Jaime cupped her face to claim a proper reward: a kiss from her soft, sweet lips…ones he could pretend were Cersei’s. It was her he wished for. It was Cersei’s eyes he wished that stared at him with the same adoration that those soft blue eyes had. It was Cersei’s soft hands that he wished could caress his face, trace his growing beard with her fingers, just like the girl was doing…one he should shave, his sister would hate it… He gently broke off the kiss and was back to being with his wife.

“Perhaps I should shave” he mumbled, had it tickled her face too much?

“You look so majestic with your beard, my lion” Alva spoke softly. He could allow it to stay on his face for a few more weeks...

Chapter Text

Alric was too tired to even eat after his practice with the Kingslayer. Sara had brought him some wine, allowing him to drink as he breathed. Alva really did think of him as a kid, yet he was the one running the castle… that was not fair.

“My lord, have you thought about asking your sister to join you for dinner ?” his maester inquired later that night.

“She dines with the Kingslayer” unfortunately he was her husband.

“Try calling for her, lady Alva has asked to see you every time she walks outside with her husband “ I know, I just don’t want to see my good brother.

“She asked her husband to help me train” Alric grumbled. He was still tired, and hadn’t even landed one hit on the man.

“The man might lack honor, but he is one of the best fighters alive. You would do well to learn from him “the maester told him

“His sword cut through my brother “Alric replied bitterly. While he knew the Maester was right, he did not enjoy having to be near the Kingslayer.

“We all miss Dravor, my lord. “he knew, everyone had mourned for his brother “ But in these times, you can’t afford to miss such an opportunity”

“Is it good to learn from a man as low as my sister’s husband?” Alric asked as he cut his venison yet again. He hadn’t even taken a bite, as the lord was simply cutting every piece he could out of it.

“In the citadel, I knew a man who did things so awful, that the Archmaesters expelled him out of the order. He was a wicked man, but also a smart one “maester William spoke “I’d rather not talk about those things, but his findings were of use, even if The Citadel will claim none of them are recorded . You don’t have to be keen on Kingslayer, just learning from him should be enough “

Alric sighed, he had to concede his maester was right, but would rather not say so outloud “What else did the letter from last night said?” He had not kept listening after the maester read Sansa was now the Imp’s wife, but it did not make sense that his father had written all the way there just to tell him about it. There had to be something more…

The maester sighed “King Robb had planned to exchange your sister for his, as a grandchild of lord Tywin and nephew to Queen Cersei could have been enough to have lady Sansa back “until they married her… “your lord father…he is not happy about the wedding, as I’m sure you could already know. “I’m sure you know him more than I do, he rarely speaks with me “I would rather save you from knowing the exact words he used. If I may be frank, my lord, a man should not say such things about his own daughter. “

He grabbed the fork with a bit more strength that he’d liked to do “it should had been him…” the boy mumbled but sighed. “Excuse me, I will go to the Godswood “and pray for forgiveness, saying that had been wrong. Strangely, he found some cut winter lilies in the ground. Their stems were gone, but the snow made sure that the flowers were still pretty as if they had been still untouched. Alric wondered how they ended up in there, but before going to pray, made sure to leave them in his brother’s grave down in their crypts. Dravor had liked them…

.

He did ask Alva to join him for breakfast the next day, even if that meant having the Kingslayer sit at their table.

“I’m glad to see that you are doing well after our training yesterday, good brother” Fuck you, Kingslayer.  I hope you choke on your pie.

The cook had made a delicious beet pie, one of Alric’s favorite meals. He did wonder if it had to do with the fact, she told her the Kingslayer was joining him for breakfast, and she wanted to at least give him a good one so he could sit through it. The old woman made lemon cakes for Alva as she was not particularly fond of beets, as well as some sausages when she requested them.

“I have to admit you were right, good brother” Alric smiled as politely as he could as he ate his breakfast. Luckily, they had a good harvest of beets for the winter, as that meant he could eat plenty of them, so it did help to brighten his mood. His good brother had barely cut his food, oddly enough.

“Jaime, are you sure you don’t want my breakfast?” Alva asked, tho she was eating her lemon cakes already. Her appetite had luckily returned and multiplied as well.

“I won’t take the food that our children make you crave “stupid Kingslayer….” you do have a good hold on your sword, I will admit. And plenty of energy that can be put into good use “the man said as he ate a piece of his breakfast, but his mouth made a grin as he took a bite. He then quickly took a sip of the warm cider.

You don’t like beets, good brother? I will ask the cook to make them especially for you from now on, then.  But that he would tell her later “why, thank you…” he smiled as politely as he could, trying not to upset his sister “I wanted to know if perhaps you could keep training me”

Alva smiled “that’s a wonderful idea, Alric! Jaime is the best knight of the Seven realms “why was his sister such a fool? Many men were better than her husband, he was sure of it. Dravor even told him that the exiled nephew of Lady Mormont had beaten him that very day. If only his lance had been aimed to the lion’s throat…

The Kingslayer kissed his sister’s cheek. Alric had to count back to avoid cursing him “why it would be an honor, good brother. Would you like to move on to real swords?”

I still have my brain, good brother. I do not trust you with a weapon” Not for now, you saw that I’m still too impulsive and don’t respond well to insults. Maybe it’s for the best I wait until I can wield Lightwarden against you“Alric did hope that he could end accidentally cutting the Kingslayer’s sword hand, if he was lucky enough, but he feared far more what the man could do if given a steel sword.

“Alric, maester William told me you were overseeing the harvest…how is it going?” his sister inquired, after all, she did not know or care about weapons, seeing she was a woman. The only steel she usually grabbed were eating utensils or her needles. While Alva had a knife that had been a gift by their lady mother, his sister was not ironborn like she had been, and thus had never learnt how to even use it.

“The beets crops did far best than the rest. Since most men are unfortunately on the south, the rest of the crops might have a harder time being cared for “but we have a lot of beets for my dear good brother, thankfully.

“I still don’t get how can you like them” Alva was not fond of them either. No wonder she liked the Kingslayer, neither of them could appreciate such a good food. “But I thank the gods that our smallfolk and us will have food for the winter”

.

Training with Lannister didn’t get any easier, even as days passed. The man was three times his age (King Joffrey, the bastard he had sired with the Queen, was the very same age as him…. Alric wondered if he had taught the abomination how to fight), had more experience in combat than every single of the guards, even men older than himself, and held as much love for Alric as Alric did for him. He would end up covered in bruises, his sister worried when he unfortunately fell from time to time. Alva had to be seated far away from where they trained, as she had insisted on helping him stand up. At the very least, Jaime Lannister cared enough for her to insist she did not try to help the boy herself up.

“Don’t worry my poor wife like that, good brother” the Kingslayer did help him back on his feet, at least. Yet you are the reason I keep falling.

The guards would at times watch them from the walls, every single one cheering for him, and Alric could swear he saw them bet.

“Get the Kingslayer, my lord!” one of the youngest guards cheered

“Don’t dare to call my husband by that name!” Alva yelled, making the man fluster.

“My apologies, Lady Niel…Lannister” but thankfully, he did not apologize with his good brother.

His sister would encourage Alric and ask her husband to perhaps be a bit gentler. Alric wanted to be offended and tell her not to be so senseless, but to his surprise, it was the Kingslayer who did so. Not with those words, thankfully, the man had no right to say such words to his sister.

“An enemy wouldn’t be gentle, Alva. I would not be doing your brother a favor by being gentler, and Alric here could find himself missing a body part or worse. Besides, he is not a child, do let him learn. “And that had been enough to have her shut up. She might not know much about swords and fighting, but her husband did.

Alric did find that he did not get as tired anymore, being able to last almost as much as the Kingslayer when they sparred. Was the man even noticing? Lannister now seemed to move his hands more, as he had sworn that before, he would simply be content enough to block. Still, he could understand why King Robert had kept him in his Kingsguard, despite everything. The way the man moved was, unfortunately, impossible to compare to the way even his brother had.

“I could make you my squire “Lannister offered, but his tone thankfully seemed to have suggested it as a joke. The thought of that was enough to make him want to punch the lion.

“I do not follow your gods, good brother, it would be a waste of time to try to become a knight” that did give him enough of an excuse to decline. For a moment, he wished to be a real owl. I could scratch your stupid face and fly away before Alva told me I was mean. Lannister and him had a silent agreement, and would not openly insult each other in the presence of his sister. Alric did fail it more often than his good brother…

.

After he was called to settle a small dispute between some of their smallfolk, Alric was told that his sister’s horse seemed to be unhappy, once he had returned. According to the stableboy (older than him by a year, to his dismay), she had rarely eaten, had chewed on the doors, and would remain standing in the same place for hours. No wonder: Alva hasn’t ridden you for a while, and I’m afraid she can’t anymore, either. I also don’t know if she will take you south, once this war ends and she has to leave us.

After all, his sister was to leave, unfortunately. He knew as much, and Alric had tried not to think much of it, as it hurt him. Whether it was to King’s Landing or to Casterly Rock, her days on their castle, and in the North as a whole, were coming to an end. Had she married her betrothed, he could have just ridden to see her. The boy was nice, but the gods unfortunately decided that his good brother was to be Jaime Lannister, of all possible men. Things would surely be more complicated, once peace was settled.

The next day, he decided it would be kind to allow the horse to see Alva. The black mare had not been particularly happy to see him, and even tried to go for a bite, but calmed down once he offered her an apple. Alva did say those were her favorite treats, as she would give her one once she was done brushing the mare’s hair. He then took the horse outside with him, but Alric apologized with his own one, so he would not get jealous. Spots seemed to be too tired to protest at the very least.

His sister was on the bench, sitting next to her husband. Lannister was there to train him, but that day, instead of checking on the smallfolk or fighting his good brother, he wanted to make sure the mare was happy “Shh, let’s surprise her…” Alric mumbled to the horse. Gods why did he do that? Alva would surely hear the horse’s footsteps in any case.

Chapter Text

Alva was sitting with her husband on the bench. After her brother went to allow them out, he said he had to do something before he could go and train with Jaime. She wondered what it was…

Strangely, she heard horse steps in their courtyard, tho the stable was not close. The girl turned around and saw Alric with his beautiful black mare.

“Night!” She tried to stand, the mare neighed, but did not attempt to run. Good lords, her poor girl…Alva had not wanted to forget about her, but….

Jaime helped her to get up “she is yours?” Her husband asked.

Alva nodded. The mare had been a gift by Dravor, back when she was eleven. Alric had gotten a stallion palfrey as well, he had named it Spots, as he was still little back then. She pet snout gently, and the black mare rested her head over Alva’s shoulder. Gods, she hadn’t gone to see her since…. since her brother had gone down south…

“Her name will be Night “ “seriously, Freckles ? That shall be the poor thing’s name ? “Dravor had laughed, but Alric proved that her was a good name once he set to name his horse Spots, despite their brother’s attempt to convince him to choose any other name.

Dravor had insisted to his father to ride all the way to the Rills, to get his younger siblings a mount for themselves. He came back with a young stallion and a young mare, one meant for each.

“It will be easier to make them get used to you as riders “Dravor explained.

Alva had tried to ride past her brothers, despite Dravor’s warnings to slow down as she was not used to riding by herself. She had ignored him and got herself lost, as neither her nor Night knew the way back

“I should have told father to get you a mule, freckles!” He told her once that had found her and the horse “it would be as stubborn as you!”

She had not wanted to go near Night after their men marched south. Alva was not particularly fond of riding, unless it was with her brothers. Doing so without Dravor was…it was not the same. She had not even wanted to look at her mare, she would remember her brother, all the times he would teach her how to care for Night…

The mare nudged her belly lightly “oh, they are my babies! I’m having twins, can you feel them?” Did it know she was pregnant?

“Horses are smart animals, it seems Night is curious about the children” Jaime tried to pet the mare, but she moved her head before her husband could do so.

“It seems that she’s not fond of you, good brother “Alric chuckled as he pet her instead , him and her mare shared similar ideas it seemed

“He is my husband “she told her horse softly as she pet behind her ears. She was black as Night, hence her name, a beautiful contrast with the snow that would usually fall around their home “His name is Jaime. I told you about him, do you remember?”

The horse did not pay much attention to her knight, tho she tried to bite his coat.

“I guess she does not “Jaime moved it to the horse would leave him “good brother, I think we should go to train away from my wife’s mare. I do wonder if it’s safe to let you under her care “

“Night is a good mare, Jaime. I will be all right “Alva insisted. She could not ride, however. Her belly was too big, and she doubted she could even get on top of the animal in the first place.

“Night is usually a calm animal “Alric thankfully agreed and pet the horse a bit more before going to train with her husband.

The mare was black as coal, and her eyes were of pretty dark brown. Alva loved her, and quite a lot. “I’m sorry…” she told the horse as her fingers ran through her mane. She had gone back to sitting down, the mare nudging her.

“I miss going out with you, riding through the fields…but you know I can’t go alone, I’m not the best rider “her late brother had been much better at it that Alva had ever hoped to. “And my belly is too big for it in any case “

“Dravor died, did you know?” Of course, the horse did not know, Alva had not told her. Probably the stableboy had, however. “He…he died in the war. I wonder if Tempest is alright…”

“Tempest? But his name is not cute, Dravor! Your horse deserves a better one!” She tried to pet the horse, but the stallion attempted to bite her. It would have had her brother not pulled her away in time. He had the stableboy take his horse inside. That was before Alric and her had gotten their own horses.

“He is a war horse, Freckles. He needs a proper name “her brother grinned “I wanted to name it Kingslayer, since your knight kindly named his after me. But my horse has too much honor to bear such a burden“Alva got annoyed at that and made a snowball to throw it at her brother.

Alric joined soon enough, both her brothers against her. Alva never stood a chance but ended up laughing with them once their fight was over.

Tempest was probably all alone, if father was even able to take care of him. He liked to be pet but only on certain parts of his head, ones Dravor had only shown her, according to himself. She did not know how the battle had even gone, and no one had told her what had been of it. All she knew is that Dravor had been killed by the man she loved.

It was a war, yes. But that did not mean it hurt any less. Alva had forgiven Jaime the very same day she got the news. But her grief still would not let her go. It would come back, even at moments she did not expect it to do so. Her mare, sadly, was a reminder of such a loss. She kept petting the creature but wished to ask for Night to be hidden away from her sight.

.

Sleeping while pregnant was not precisely simple, and only got more complicated once her belly grew. The right position to sleep kept eluding her, as she was never quite keen to sleep on her side. Alva liked to rest her head against Jaime’s chest, which was easier said than done lately.

When she finally managed to get herself comfortable enough to close her eyes to sleep, she felt a kick. Alva tried to sleep through it, but the kicks grew more intense. She would feel them in different spots as well

Are you two fighting inside my belly, little lions ? I’m tired, please, but her children kept kicking. Alva decided to sit up…her husband moved his arm, trying to find her after she left his embrace. Even asleep, Jaime was ever so handsome. His golden curls had grown even more, and his beard gave him a rougher appearance, as that of a fierce lion. She leaned to softly kiss his cheek before moving to sit on a chair, trying to get more comfortable.

“I could tell you one of the stories of your lord father “ Alva offered as she caressed her own belly. The children kept kicking, maybe they didn’t completely like the idea. “He has so many, ones back of when he was just a squire. Or maybe I could tell you about-“ but there it was, yet another kick.

Her babies were restless. The kicks grew more intense, and despite being so tired, she could not bring herself to sleep. Alva wondered if she should ask Jaime for help, but her poor husband had been training with Alric yet again, he must have been even more tired than she was.

Mother had told them that their little sibling liked to hear them speak. It was true, yet some days the baby would be too restless, especially if their father was busy. Dravor had dragged her to join their mother’s bed. It was one of her very first memories, she had been barely a baby herself back then…

“I know a song that the babe will like! “Dravor was five or six back then, a tall boy already “Freckles liked it too! That will make them stop kicking!”

And thus, they had sung, and Alric, who back then was not called by such name, had indeed calmed down. Mother said that perhaps the babe had gone to sleep.

“Danny Flint” she spoke softly “your uncle Alric liked when we sung it  to him. The song is so beautiful….”

She could still remember the letter. Mother was ironborn, and so she would sometimes forget it, but Dravor knew it well enough. Alva would follow his lead.

“Your uncle Dravor would sing it to me too. I think you will like it….” Alva mumbled, and began to sing the song.

“Watchers in the night

A dying candle flame

Soldiers for the fight

But one is not the same

They must not know her name”

Her brother insisted that she put her hands on their mother’s belly. Alva would sometimes get scared, as their new sibling could kick with quite a lot of strength, but mother had insisted that it was alright.

“She left it behind

The life she always knew

A knew journey unwinds

Will fortune carry through?”

I’m also leaving my life behind. My brother, the maids, the maester, our guards, Night, Father….

“They must not know her name

Brave Danny Flint

Shall hope be beaten down?

Brave Danny Flint

Never to make a sound”

After Alric was born, they kept singing the song to him. She could not remember how old they all were, but as mother and father would hold him, his soft blue eyes would stare at her and Dravor as they both performed the melody for him.

“Time, like the wind

Carries a passing cloud

Never to make a sound again

Shut out from the light

Their world is not the same”

Alva had tears in her eyes. The babies were still kicking, and it hurt her. But not enough to make her cry. Her tears were for her older brother. Why did he march south? Why couldn’t Father go himself? He would love his nieces, that she knew…

“They search in the night

For someone else to blame

They must not know her name

Brave Danny Flint

Shall hope be beaten down?”

Dravor had a beautiful voice, even if he insisted otherwise. That was his favorite song. He would sing it to her and Alric after mother died, trying to calm their cries. He was also a boy himself…

“Brave Danny Flint

Never to make a sound

Time, like the wind

Carries a passing cloud

Never to make a sound

The days are growing colder”

Alva had not even been brave enough to walk down to the crypts. She had not been brave enough to leave the lilies for her own brother. Dravor had taken care of her and Alric more than their own father, and she could not even do that for him.

“She sets her spirit free

And they may think they know her

So she will let them see

She won't be growing older”

Neither will my brother…I shall reach the same age he was, soon enough. Then so will Alric, my babes too. But Dravor will always remain eight and ten. He will never call me Freckles again, see how brave our little brother is, meet my children, or see this war end.

“Because she once believed

They stole it from her in the end

Brave Danny Flint

Shall hope be beaten down?

Brave Danny Flint”

They sung it for Alric’s tenth nameday. Dravor gave him a sword, which their brother had named Lightwarden. Alva was sure he was too young for one yet, but her elder brother just laughed and told her she was being like a mother hen.

“Never to make a sound

Brave Danny Flint

Shall hope be beaten down?

Brave Danny Flint”

Even if my lord husband might not like it, we will win this war. His nephew had Lord Stark killed . Jaime is not a monster like the boy, and I don't want him to suffer, but I hope that King Robb gets the boy . At the very least, Jaime will not have killed my brother in vain: Grey Wind and King Robb will bring Joffrey Baratheon’s head north and mount it into the walls of the new castle he shall build, once the squids are all gone. Queen Jeyne will give us Stark Princes and Princesses soon enough, Arya and Sansa will be back to their home as well. Even if I have to leave mine once this was war is over, at least the Starks will be here once again.

“Never to make a sound

Time, like the wind

Carries a passing cloud

Never to make a sound again”

Alva finished her song, but the babes had not stopped kicking.  She grumbled, it hurt her.

“Maybe they would like another song” her husband knelt down next to her “You have a beautiful voice, Alva…” gods, she had not wanted to wake Jaime…

Chapter Text

Of course, his good brother had some sense and asked Jaime to help him train.  The boy was smart enough, at the very least. And had more brains than his wife, who tried to offer her own breakfast to him.

Saying the babes made her crave the lemon cakes was enough to stop her from doing so. He knew his little wife liked those sweets and having her eat the beet pie was plain cruel. Jaime had not expected that northerns could come up with such an abomination, but they proved him wrong. The only reason he ate was to avoid Alva from offering her food again, and because otherwise, he was sure the boy lord would make sure to have every single one of his meals include beets if he noticed his distaste for them. He was a grown man, and would have to eat them, as much as he loathed those.

They boy lord had some astonishing progress in his sword fight ever since Jaime started to train him. While he knew the basics, his lack of self-control would have otherwise made him an easy target. At first, Jaime would simply block, barely even having to move much. As days passed, the boy improved, slowly, but steadily. He felt oddly proud, it was the first time he had trained a lad and such a feeling was strange for him.

“Is it safe to leave my wife with that horse?” He asked as he moved to block the boy’s strikes, as a black mare accompanied the girl.

“Night won’t harm her, Lannister “the boy lord answered.

The horse was a palfrey. The mare had a beautiful color, yes, but it was a simple creature. His wife was now a Lannister, she would need a finer creature. Once Alva and him went south, he would make sure to get her a better and more beautiful mare, one worthy of a Lannister wife. Jaime could also give one to the boy lord, a gift he qouldn’t not reject. Just the thought of it nearly made him smile: the girl so happy with a beautiful destrier, and the lad having to make an effort to thank Jaime for his.

Both horses would be better than the stubborn thing that had rejected his attempt to pet it and took a bite from his coat. His wife looked happy enough petting the mare at the very least, he had not known she even had one…but it’s not like Jaime had bothered to ask in the first place. 

Every day that passed, he had to admit the boy lord was moving faster, harder to predict. Jaime still could, but if the boy went against an squire, Alric Nielsen would surely win. Was that improvement because he was the boy lord’s teacher, or because his good brother hated him so much that he did not want to make a fool out if himself by losing so badly against him once again?

 The boy was not even close to being able to beat him, whether it was their practice, a real fight, or a joust. The last one in particular he was far from, as the northerns did not held tourneys. His good brother did have a good steel sword, but had still insisted against using it. Lightwarden, according to his little wife. A gift by the brother that was now buried in the crypts that Alva was too afraid to even visit.

But Alric, to the surprise of the man and the boy, was able to do a feat that deserved the right amount of astonishment: he hit Jaime’s sword hand, right on the wrist. Wooden swords were used to train as they were heavy, and while they could not cut, they would leave all sorts of bruising. And without anything on him but his clothes, that was enough to make Jaime drop his weapon. The boy just stared at him, wide eyed as a real owl would have, and speechless.

You would have rather cut me with your sword, wouldn’t you? Jaime still had to admit that it had been been quite the accomplishment.

He smiled “good job, good brother. Had that been a steel sword, my hand would have dropped to the snow “gods, why did he feel proud of the brat? The guards cheered for little Alric, but none dared to utter the word “Kingslayer”, seeing that Alva was within earshot. His wife cheered for the boy too, but nonetheless gave him a kiss for a reward. Jaime found himself wishing for another reward, her sweet cunt was better suited for that and he made sure to claim his hard earned prize that night…

.

His hand lazily looked for Alva. The girl was sleeping next to him as he held her close, but the lack of her warmth was enough to interrupt his slumber. Jaime felt warm lips kiss his cheek, and had lazily opened his eyes, tho his wife did not seem to notice.

What on the seven hells was she doing? Perhaps just relieving herself…but Jaime caught a glimpse of Alva, sitting on one of the chairs.

“I could tell you one of the stories of your lord father “ he saw as she caressed her own belly. The babes were perhaps kicking, perhaps that was why she was still awake. “He has so many, ones back of when he was just a squire. Or maybe I could tell you about-“ how I saved Kingslanding? Perhaps I sired those two after telling you…

“Danny Flint” she spoke softly. Who was that ? Jaime couldn’t recall any of his stories that involved a woman with such a name “your uncle Alric liked when we sung it  to him. The song is so beautiful….”

A northern song, perhaps? Good lords, if it was as hideous as that horrid song about the wolves and the lion, about the victories of the Young Wolf, he should spare the children from listening to it.

“Your uncle Dravor would sing it to me too. I think you will like it….” Alva mumbled. It wasn’t, that song had to be old…He decided to listen.

A song about a young lady leaving her home, my little wife ? Did she also decided to be the wench to the man who killed her brother? A Wench…his little wife, he had called her by that name not long ago…

Her voice was gentle, just like her kisses were. Those soft blue eyes had tears escaping from them, a sight that could only be described as pitiful.

You are remembering the boy, aren’t you? Had he just stayed away as you advised him…

Perhaps her voice was so beautiful, or so pitiful, that the moon had deemed her worthy of deserving it’s light. Her freckled face was wet with her tears, just as she caressed her belly, as though that could shield their little lions from the pain she carried. Her pale blonde hair shined against the moonlight, and Jaime struggled to recall a sight more beautiful than his pregnant lady wife, sitting right there singing for their babes.

Crying does not suit you well, my lady wife. It can’t bring your brother back. Such a voice…I believe our babes are enjoying your northern song as much as I am, but if you could smile, I’m sure the three of us would be even more delighted.

Jaime silently stood up. He was almost half asleep but managed to move slowly. The girl had not even noticed he was awake, focused on singing for their babes. She ended the song, perhaps their children were now satisfied…but seeing her reaction, he doubted it.

“Maybe they would like another song” Jaime knelt down next to her “You have a beautiful voice, Alva…” he meant it. Maybe their babes would enjoy her singing again, and he wouldn’t mind either…

His wife nearly jumped off the chair “Gods, Jaime, I’m sorry, I did not meant to wake you…”the girl apologized. He chuckled

“With your voice, I couldn’t help but to stay awake “but maybe he was wrong, her sorrow did well to accompany the letter “I’m afraid I don’t know that one, however “

“You don’t know Brave Dany Flint?” The girl looked puzzled “it’s a beautiful one…” yet so sad, it seemed

“I don’t “he put his hand on her belly, the babes still kicking with much energy “the little lions might like another one….Perhaps Rains of Castamere?” He smirked, Jaime knew his little wife was northern enough to not be entirely fond of it.

“I’m afraid I don’t know the letter “ But we danced to it, and you are a Lannister now, my lady. I should teach you the letter soon enough…” I like the Last of the giants, or maybe the new one the singers played at our wedding?” She really did not get that one or decided to ignore the content all together…

“Maybe one sung in the south could make for a change “and he knew the right one “how about Six Maids in a Pool? “She enjoyed the tale of Florian and Jonquil, after all. And that song was happier than the northern one she had chosen

“I don’t know the lyrics “she mumbled shyly. Of course, with a northern father and an iroborn mother, it wasn’t much of a surprise. Had it not been for the book, he doubted she’d known the story at all. The babes kicked more, he felt them, and it was clear his wife had felt them as well “maybe you could sing it?”

“You want me to sing for the babes?” he had done so with Tyrion, back when his mother was waiting for his birth. But never for his own children…his wife nodded. Well, she had kindly sung before, it would not hurt to do the same

“Six maids in a pool

They're of noble blood

One Fool, but great, on the shore

He'd seen that flower full of love

"She'll be in my garden" - he'd sworn

Her name was Jonquil, pure child

Tough father had made a deal:

By ugly, full of money lord

That beauty will have to be killed, oh”

His lady wife was still sitting on the chair and put her hand over his. Their children gave her yet more kicks. He wondered how Alva could, being such a delicate sweet thing, even handle that.

“Oh oh, glorious Florian-

He was the first who had opened her thighs

Oh oh, glorious Florian,

Run from thousands of lies

To the happiest day of their lives”

Just like I was the first to open her thighs, tho I was trying to pretend she was someone else. Yet she has had no problem laying with me

“He was a knight of famous name,

The owner of Furious sword

But now he's fool with motley shield

Because of cutting word.

Despite of misery and fate,

Pride's what he feels for real

He'll care about vows he gave

With blade of Valyrian steel, oh”

One of her hands moved to his head. Alva was gently playing with his golden curls and gave him one of her soft smiles. Right as the moon shined on them, he admitted the girl looked rather beautiful. Every single one of her freckles could pass as a star…

“Oh oh, glorious Florian-

He was the first who had opened her thighs

Oh oh, glorious Florian,

Run from thousands of lies

To the happiest day of their lives”

“You have a good singing voice” his wife said as he finished the song. Jaime chuckle, she wouldn’t say a bad thing about him, tho he knew he was not the best. He was a knight, not a bard.

“I do better with swords than with songs, but I guess it was enough for the babes and you” the children had stopped kicking, perhaps already pleased. Or annoyed and would rather not hear him anymore. He was not as good as his lady wife, even if she thought otherwise. Alva was still playing with his hair.

“I hope our children have your beautiful golden locks “Alva smiled, she did not seem to have listened to what he had just said  “did you steal the sun rays for them, my love?”

“Lann the clever did, but those are just stories for children” according to what Tyrion told him “I’m sure they will, and those lovely freckles of yours would look adorable on their little faces.”

“You think so?” his wife asked with a blush. Jaime smirked, red did suit her “I-I would love if the babes had your green eyes, too…”

“A fine color…” he stood up slightly, and gently caressed her face “But if I’m honest, I believe your beautiful blue ones would suit them better.”

Chapter Text

Alva was sitting on the bench, watching her husband and brother train as she’d gotten used too. She smiled as she softly hummed for the children that were growing inside her, a habit she’d started to develop even more as of lately, seeing they enjoyed hearing her voice. The little lions seemed to enjoy her northern songs, except the one that had played at her and Jaime’s wedding.

She was happy, happier than she had been for years, happier than she had ever expected to be after losing her brother. It seemed that everything in her life was going well.  The war hopefully would come to an end soon enough, before winter was there. Peace and trading hostages would still take a while after that, hopefully their children would be born in the castle, and Jaime and her would not have to leave until it was safe for their babes to travel.

The gods smiled upon the North. The squids still remained there, but it was only a matter of time until they could be expelled, now that their King was dead. Word was it that Theon Greyjoy had been taken to the Dreadfort by Lord Roose Bolton’s bastard, a young man named Ramsay. She hoped that Greyjoy was left just as the Bolton’s sigil…

Some rumors had accompanied him. Horrible ones, saying he would hunt down women and had allowed lady Donella Hornwood to starve… But he had been kind enough to allow the survivors of Winterfell into his own castle. Perhaps they were baseless, meant to discredit him for being a base born son. After all, King Robb trusted Lord Roose, or else he would not have given him the important task of holding Harrenhall, as the news had told them.

Such news had also brought them a hopeful message: It seemed that King Robb’s uncle, Lord Edmure Tully, was to wed a daughter of Walder Frey. Hopefully, with the support of the Freys, their King would be able to force the Iron Throne to at least negotiate for peace. That much was said in a letter that had arrived two or three nights ago, Alva wasn’t sure. By then the wedding should have taken place a week or two ago….

And during that time, odd things began to happen. Wolves were heard howling in the nearby woods, for the first time since her grandsire’s day. The small folk came to the castle to tell her brother the same, as everyone was worried about the creatures. But it was odd, their howling sounded almost like sorrow.

That’s how the older smallfolk described it. A sound of an animal who had just lost its cub. A lone animal who was the last survivor of its pack. A pack that had been killed and skinned…

Crows would fly everywhere, and Alva saw a few owls joining them too, all set in their Weirdwood tree. It was strange, almost as if they were sad as well. The ones that were kept for messages would refuse to eat their corn, according to the maester. Jaime was even nearly pecked by one of their own crows while practicing with her brother. It was the last one they had kept for sending messages to Winterfell. The bird was confirmed by their maester to be from there, the poor thing’s home was now gone and as such it had been set free, but it had decided to remain around their castle.

“It’s strange, Lord Manderly says he has not gotten a single message back from the south “ a guard had been to ask in person, seeing no news were arriving from any of their men, who should have written with news regarding what would happen afterwards. Their father would rarely write in the first place, but it was believed that after the wedding, King Robb would return North. The siblings had at least expected a scold from the man…

Yet not a word had been heard.  Not a raven had flown from the south. No messenger from lord Manderly had arrived to give them any instructions by King Robb. It was all silent.

Alva tried not to think much about it . She tried to not to have any bad thoughts. She was pregnant, such things would not be good for her babies.

“Your brother is making quite the progress “Jaime’s voice took her out of her thoughts. Alva smiled as he helped her to get up, and decided to let such a thought go away

“That’s wonderful!“ Alric had managed to disarm Jaime once, tho he still had much to practice before being nearly as good as her husband. He still refused to practice with steel swords, however.

“I think I could end being better that you are, Lannister “Alric grinned, those two would sadly never get along.

“If you do so, it will be only because I trained you myself, good brother “Jaime replied as she held his arm.

“Maybe you could become a squire in Casterly Rock” so they wouldn’t have to separate, even after she had to go south with her husband

“I would rather cut my own feet than set one there “Alric replied, Jaime nearly laughing.

“My brother Tyrion would be more than happy to host you. And you could see Sansa Stark as well “Jaime told him as both of them left back to their room.

.

“Is Queen Jeyne beautiful, Jaime?” Alva asked as they finished their dinner, honey eyed chicken had been served, tho Jaime’s plate included beets in his salad, weirdly enough. She swore the cook was sending her husband many of them in all his meals lately.

“Queen Jeyne?” Jaime looked confused. Alric had told her about the wedding of King Robb to a girl from a house that were sworn to the Lannisters. She had told her husband, but he would still not recognize King Robb, as his nephew sat in the Iron Throne. He was her nephew too, as unfortunate as that was.

“King Robb’s wife. Alric said her name is Jeyne Westerling “curiously, that was the same name as one of Maegor the Cruel’s Black Brides…. why would her family reuse such a tragic name for their daughter” I thought you might know her”

“I do” the maester had told her once that not all lord Paramounts would visit their vassals, so she wasn’t sure “she might be prettier than any stout born to the Freys but doesn’t not bring much to a match. The Young Wolf has made a mistake there “

“They married for love “at least that’s what she understood, once her brother had explained her what he had heard. Poor King Robb. Alva wondered just how many of his men judged him for choosing to be happy with her. I wonder how many have judged me for marrying Jaime...

She could remember he was a handsome boy. He had very beautiful blue eyes and auburn hair that favored his southern mother’s family. Every northern parent, including hers, wanted their daughters to marry him. And every northern girl dreamed of marrying King Robb, except Alva. Other neighboring noble girls would tell each other how they dreamt of being betrothed to handsome Robb Stark, but she dreamed of Jaime…and thought that Jon Snow, his bastard half-brother, was more handsome than he was.

But she never said that out loud. Those girls had surely cried when it was announced he was betrothed to a Frey girl. And they had surely done so when word reached that he took Jeyne Westerling for a wife. She hoped they would be happy, and that the King and the Queen in the North would have a lot of beautiful children once they rebuilt Winterfell.

“Love won’t win him any wars” Jaime chuckled as he drank his spiced wine “but what could be expected from a boy who thinks himself a King “that she did not take too kindly, even if it was her husband who said so.

“King Robb is not a boy. We are the same age, he is a man  “ and Alva was a woman, already wed and carrying her husband’s babes “ a man who has won countless victories, my love. He is the King in the North “

Jaime looked at her, making Alva blush a bit“of course, my little wife. Forgive me “she smiled

“I do “ she couldn’t remain angry with Jaime for much “marrying for love is beautiful…just like we did “

Her husband smiled at her “yes, just like we did…”

Alva hoped that maybe Jaime would leave the Kingsuard, perhaps he….but that would be selfish of her, and she knew it.  Her husband had kept serving after the Mad King died, wanting to protect his sister and nephews… Yet she wished they could both live together, and raise their children, perhaps even have more after their twins were born. Just as long as they could be together, she would be happy…

Alva was not even able to get herself ready to go to sleep. Her brother, pale as a ghost, simply barged into the room and grabbed her hand.

“Good brother, I thought you’d learnt to knock “ Jaime spoke, but her brother ignored him “don’t you need me to help your poor sister to walk out?  “

“Alric…brother, what is wrong?” She was worried, he looked shaken, like she’d never seen him before, and insisted on dragging her arm.

“Kingslayer, you…stay here “he mumbled. Alva would have scolded him if she was not worried enough already, not even questioning that he had not asked her husband to go with her.

“But I could fall…” Alva reminded her brother. A guard helped her, but she would have rather had Jaime do so. Their guards all had a somber look. She saw ome even breaking down crying, just like the maids were. Something was wrong...

“A… a messenger just arrived from White Harbor…” Alric mumbled as they walked towards their maester’s place “he….”

“My lord, perhaps it’s better if I tell your sister “Maester William sighed “my lady, it’s best if you sit down…”

Dravor’s death had been the last kind of news that had made everyone in the castle react in such a way. Her and her brother’s lives had changed that day. She thought that perhaps, her father had also died… But what the maester told…it would shake everyone’s lives in the north…young and old. Small folk and noble born. Men and women, no matter what gods they belonged too.

The wedding between Edmure Tully and his Frey wife had ended in tragedy. Alva did not know if the maester sparred any details for her and her brother, but nearly every northern family had just lost at least one of their own members, as well as most of their men that had joined King Robb.

King Robb…who was now dead as well. So was his mother, Lady Catelyn Stark. Killed at the wedding, were they had gone as guests. Where the guest rights had belonged to them. Betrayed by such cowards….

"They killed our King," Alric sobbed, his little face full of tears, his voice barely a whisper. "They killed him, and his mother….”His fists clenched, his body was shaking. "And now they demand we bow to them, that we..."

There was a list full of names of northern and riverlander hostages. Some she knew, others she did had never even heard of, and she was sure they had not heard of her house. They were to be killed, unless …

My uncle and Lord Commander of the Kingsguard, Ser Jaime Lannister, shall be returned unharmed to King’s Landing before the end of this month, accompanied with his lady wife. As a sign of the Iron Throne’s good faith, despite the high treason committed by her family for joining the pretender King’s side, my lady aunt’s father and the men who accompanied him will be returned without her family having to pay a ransom for them. If such terms fail to be met, every hostage at the Twins shall be promptly put to the sword.

It was signed by King Joffrey Baratheon. The boy who had caused the North so much pain. He was ordering her to leave her home….

“I…. I can’t leave….I don’t want to leave….”soft tears fell from her eyes, and she could not heard anyone who was talking to her. The Starks were gone, so many of their people had been slaughtered, men who she had known ever since she was a little girl… and the King who’s hands were full of their blood was demanding she left her home, while pregnant with the boy’s own cousins. If the gods were good, which she was doubting at the moment, then her nephew would meet a painful and agonizing death.

Chapter Text

It seemed that his kind good brother had indeed noticed his dislike for beets, much to his dismay. Jaime would find them in every possible meal but would still force himself to eat them. He would not allow the boy to find comfort in tormenting him, and made sure not to tell his wife, least she tried to give him her food.

He found that his little wife really considered herself a woman grown…that had nearly been enough to make Jaime laugh. You are a girl…a girl I should not have bedded, but we both were fools. So is Robb Stark, the boy you insist on calling your King. The only reason he still lives is because he keeps that hideous beast of his by his side. It seemed that criticizing her beloved Starks was the one thing that his northern wife would not tolerate. He’d continue, but as amusing as he would find to have her all flustered trying to defend the Young Wolf, Jaime chose that perhaps it would be best to just let her be and apologized.  She kept blushing just at his glances after all…

“I do “the girl accepted his apologies, she just could not be angry at him for too long, even if he made such comments “marrying for love is beautiful…just like we did “

He did not have the heart to correct her. You are a beautiful little thing, my lady wife. I wish I could love you just as you love me…we married because I fucked you and that sweet cunt of yours saw it fit that my seed would give you two babes. There is only one woman I’d marry for love…

But for now, he could at least return her affection, his sister was not there, and he could make her understand their situation later. Besides, Jaime liked to hear the northern songs that Alva would sing for their children, and he had made sure to teach her some of his own. She still was not fond of Rains of Castamere, tho their children seemed to kick more with that song. They were lions, after all.

And Jaime also enjoyed seeing her smile.  So soft, so fool of innocence…even stealing kisses from her now and then was appealing for the knight, not just to pretend it was Cersei who he was missing. Her hands were also nearly as soft, and they would gently caress his beard and play with his hair.

“The first time I saw you, my love, I knew I would not come to love any other man  else more than you” his wife smiled, still gently caressing his hair between her soft hands “a knight all dressed in such a beautiful golden armor, with hair stolen from the sun itself…I fell for you, my Golden Knight”

She believes I’m a knight from a tale. Her Golden Knight, …Such a title does sound better than Kingslayer.  Perhaps I could get father to hold a tourney for his new grandchildren, as soon as we arrive at the Rock. I could win it for Alva, that crown is too old now and I was not able to properly defend her title as she believed I did. That will surely anger my sweet sister, but I could make sure to comfort her afterwards. Before going to bed with my sweet wife and hold our children, that is.

He did have his doubts that the war would end before their twins were born. She was three or four months shy from giving birth, if things went accordingly. The children would not be strong enough to travel to the Rock until they were a few months older. With winter coming close, that could take even longer…. He could at least be a father to the children as his return to the south waited.

Alva was just a girl herself, she could use some help, more than having a babysitter around …Jaime did wonder if she would allow him to hold their children. He had never got to hold any of his, they belonged to Robert. Would his good brother make his sister move once the babes were born? Jaime would no longer be needed to help her walk, the boy lord might as well just lock him alone again. But he could always put the condition that the boy beat him in their sparrings to do so. Alric Nielsen would be a fine sword if he was able to keep training the lad.

.

His wife was about to get herself ready to sleep. Jaime, on the other hand, might have gotten another idea…he thought of pulling her to his side and rid her of every cloth, fuck her as she begged for more….

He did not even get to reach for her hand. The door had suddenly opened, and there was the boy lord. For Seven’s sake, good brother. Couldn’t you have arrived later?

“Good brother, I thought you’d learnt to knock “Jaime thought about simply throwing him outside, but was confused as the boy simply grabbed Alva’s arm “don’t you need me to help your poor sister to walk out?  “

His good brother glared at him. The boy’s face was as white as milk, his freckles the only part of him that had any color “Kingslayer, you…stay here “he mumbled. The only thing he had heard such venom in his good brother’s voice was back when he had first been brought there.

Was my good father killed? That would be the only explanation Jaime could think of, for such a reaction. He had no other option than to remain there, without even being able to kiss his little wife.

And so, he did. Alva would surely come back in tears, he had no doubts. With Cersei he could just fuck her to make her forget about it, but his wife…she would need kind words. She would need to be hugged by him, caress his face and beg him to hold her tightly. She would possibly need some help with their children, who liked to give their poor mother a harsh time from their comfortable spot in her womb. Perhaps he could sing to them, his voice seemed to soothe them. The girl had taught him to sing Brave Danny Flint, he could use that one…or the Bear and the Maiden fair, that song was loved across the entire realm.

When the door opened again, after gods knows how long, only his good brother and two guards stood there. The boy’s face was still pale, but he could see his eyes were red, perhaps from crying.

“Follow me, Lannister “he mumbled. Jaime would have liked to mock the boy but decided to keep his mouth closed. He’d already mocked his deceased good brother after all…

It was a strange sight. He could feel every northern pair of eyes on him, all with even more hatred towards him than every single other time. He heard the word Kingslayer far more times than he could count, at times coming from men or women who’d broken down in tears. Where the guards there to stop any of the mourners from trying to kill him? Where was his good brother taking him? Jaime had not even bothered to ask, perhaps he would be finding himself in a cold dungeon soon enough, if the castle even had one.

But he was escorted to the Godswood, in front of the same tree where he had gotten married with his lady wife. His good brother soon asked the guards to leave them alone.

“I’m sorry for your father’s passing, my lord “Jaime tried to be as kind as he could. He felt the tree’s hideous eyes staring at him, an eerie sensation he had not felt at his wedding. It might be just the moonlight making it look even uglier.

“My father’s passing?” The boy repeated, and shook his head “he…he is hurt, but alive, as far as I know.”

“Then why did you bring me here? Your servants looked like they wanted me dead, just like the first day I arrived “in chains, if he could remember.

The boy lord hesitated, trying to find the right words to use. Just like his little wife, his blue ears looked particularly depressing when full of tears. Some owls flew away before he decided to speak.

“King Robb is dead…” his words, had they been uttered by a boy of a house still loyal to the Iron Throne, would have been full of joy. He could imagine Joffrey cheering after hearing the news. Yet the boy spoke as if he had lost yet another brother “his lady mother is dead…. many of the men who went down with him…. even his wolf…. they are….”

“His lady mother?” The Young wolf would not have been stupid enough to clad Catelyn Stark in armor and have her fight, would he?

“It was supposed to be a wedding…” the boy did not dare to look at him “guest right…Guest right is sacred, none of my guests harmed you, no matter how much I wished they had, Kingslayer…. but the Freys, they….”

Jaime could not find the right words to utter. The northerns would deserve whatever faith befalled them, on a battlefield, that is. But to stomp that low, and by allies…the Freys could have declared for the Iron Throne, no one could have blamed them after Robb Stark had chosen to break his vows. What they had done…if this was the reaction of a minor house, he did not want to imagine what the bigger houses would be doing.

The boy was carrying his sword. He could not be thinking of sending his head, Jaime trusted he had much more sense than that. He did not wish to harm his good brother, as being just three and ten, he would be no match, as he knew well enough. The guards were away, another sign that he did not intend to do any harm to him.

“So many others are now held by the Freys, who declared for King Joffrey” the boy continued to speak, not bothering to look at him in the eye. He wondered just how many northerns had been taken” they are to be killed, every single one of them, unless…” the boy glared at him, not wanting to finish whatever he had meant to say “unless…we send you….and….”

The boy would surely be glad to get rid of him, once and for all. Jaime supposed that he was worth as much as all the hostages that had been taken by the Freys, the apparent new friends of the Iron Throne. Would the Crown be foolish enough to openly forgive such a treachery?

“My wife?” Alva was pregnant. Traveling, while possible, could be rough for her. Not to mention she did not wish to leave her home yet, nor her brother. Jaime had hoped that she would have enough time to get prepared for their travel…

Her brother’s face kept a steady flow of tears “your son…and don’t dare to deny he is your son, Lannister! We all know!” The lad clenched his fist “he demanded that both of you be sent to King’s Landing, or else every hostage will be killed. Every single northern house, every single house in the Riverlands who chose to follow our king…they all have someone that could be lost if you two don’t return…”

“You could have just sent me and my wife on our way, good brother, if that worried you that much “but he had gone to fetch for him, that he still did not understand. The boy glared at him.

“I need you to make a promise “the boy declared “I hold no love for you, despite your sword lessons, and you do not feel any love for me, that I know well enough…” Alric tried to clean his tears.

“What sort of promise?” And why in front of a weird wood tree?

“Every time a northern marches South…faith is not kind to them. We all know, and your family and the Freys gave us a reminder…” I saw Aerys kill two Starks, all because his son decided to steal the she-wolf. I suppose I know more than enough “I…I don’t trust any vows you swear for your new gods …”

Tears were falling from the boy’s face, his voice shaking “but no man can lie in front of a Heart tree…”Jaime wanted to mock the boy, but he felt the tree’s eyes starring once again, and decided to keep his mouth shut “I need you to swear, right here, right in front of the old gods, the gods that have watched over my family…”

He could guess what the boy wanted. He wanted his sister to be cared for, protected…Jaime could understand. He decided to allow the boy lord to put his terms.

“I need you to swear that you will take care of Alva. Swear that you will protect her from any harm done by anyone. From your abomination of a son that had Lord Stark’s head. From…the Queen, you had him imprisoned “Foolish boy, Cersei might see her as a way to cover up our love. I do agree that it would be for the best to keep them apart…” from any enemies that might want to harm you…. Swear that you will make her happy. Swear that you will do the same for the babes.” Alric’s lips were shaking, but not his resolution.

Vows made before a sept or a tree are the same, boy. Words that the wind shall carry away…but such he could not say. Maybe it was because the boy had the same soft blue eyes his wife had, maybe because he was talking to a boy who was rightfully afraid of sending his sister away.   Jaime decided to kneel in front of three. That would leave his neck exposed, no doubt, for the boy to easily behead him if he wished.

No night birds, crickets, wolves, or wind could be heard anymore. Not even the crows, a miracle considering one of the damned things, had tried to peck out his eye the other day.

“I swear that I will care for my sweet wife, Alva “he heard his good brother sob, tears falling to the snow. A broken child…” I swear that I will protect her from any harm, no matter who it comes from, whether is from King Joffrey, or my sister Cersei.” The tree’s red eyes kept looking as he spoke, the gaze…Jaime could only define its gaze as soft at the moment. “From any enemies who might want to harm her to punish me or our family. I swear that I will make her happy, that she won’t have any needs. And I swear to do the same for our children, who she is carrying. “

He stood again, just as the boy broke. Alric covered his face with his hands, bitterly crying, muttering every curse a boy of his age could know. Jaime was not sure what to do. Gods, his lady wife would for sure be crying worse than her brother was and seeing him…he had to try and calm him down. He put his hand on the boy’s shoulder, who nearly hissed and made him take it off.

“Boy, just listen to me” he spoke softly “Your sister…she does not wish to go South and leave you behind. That you know well enough. What do you think will happen if she sees you crying like that?”

“My King was killed, his kind mother as well. My men are held prisoner by such weasels, and my sister is to go down to the worst viper pit in Westeros. The only person who can protect her is you…” the boy cried, trying to slowly breath “how…just how am I supposed to stop crying?”

“Go away inside” That was what he'd done, when the Starks had died before him, Lord Rickard cooking in his armor while his son Brandon strangled himself trying to save him. “Think of your brother, who would have wanted you to be brave. Think of Alva, who will be terrified to think she is leaving her little brother all alone. Think of anything, but just don’t cry, at least not in front of her.”

The boy seemed to be thinking if he should cut him but tried to dry his tears “We…we will pack your armor…the Crown sent a boat to take you, you shall leave at dawn…” he mumbled. “Wait for Alva in the stables while she says her farewells…”

He had been brought with only the armor, not even allowed to wear it “I do need to return to the room, if you could be so kind.”

“Why?” Alric’s voice was devoid of any energy, barely any emotion within it.

“Alva made me a beautiful needlework” and he would not be returning without it.

Chapter Text

This is my home, I don’t want to leave. I don’t want to leave…I can’t leave…I can’t leave my little brother all alone…

Alva had mere hours left to say her farewells to every person in the castle, and gather her belongings. But what was one even supposed to take when it was a permanent travel ? The first thing she gathered was her golden crown. She traced her fingers over it, with as much care as she could. She had long recovered from the time she grabbed it after carelessly throwing it into the fire, and the crown had barely suffered…Alva would be taking it with her.

“Where is Jaime?” She knew Alric would not have harmed him, least that cost the lives of all the hostages. But where could he be, if not in their room?

“Your brother wanted to speak with him outside “one of the guards informed her. She sighed. What could they be speaking about in such a time?

Alva decided to also take her knife as well, even if he did not know how to use it, as it had been a gift from her late mother.  And as much as she wished to take her needling material, she decided best to leave it there. It hurt her that she would not even be able to do something for her brother before leaving, so she found it best to simply leave it there.

“Do you think the travel will be safe for the babes?” She shyly asked the maester as one of the guards helped her to move around the castle

“It’s a boat journey, safer than traveling through the roads. However, it would be for the best that you try not to walk much on the ship, unless your husband aids you “the man answered, tho even the Maester seemed to be in a sullen mood.

Her tears had not stopped. A wedding…the guest right should have protected them. King Robb had fallen in love, his marriage to Queen Jeyne was pure. How could the Freys be so treacherous and do such a thing? If their Queen gave birth to a son, Alva hoped that the boy would slaughter the weasels…

Had poor Sansa heard the news? Did she know that she was the last of her family ? She had such a soft and kind heart…Alva hoped that her good brother would be kind to the poor girl. She was the same age as Alric, gods, just a child herself…

They were good sisters now. When they got to King’s Landing, Alva would make sure to go talk to her. They were friends after all, they knew each other.  Two northern girls in such a city, who would move to the Rock soon enough. Sansa would be her children’s aunt, she could tell her about how the babes enjoyed hearing songs….

But Alric…he would be all alone…While the maester, the servants and the guards would be there, Alva wouldn’t…

“Please take care of my brother “she told Sara as she hugged the maid, who was sobbing. Alva felt guilty, she had lied to the woman, and was not sure if the maid was worried for how her father would react once he returned. I lied to you because I loved Jaime… please forgive me, it wasn’t your fault. Father will understand, I know that.

“Here are some lemon cakes for you and the babes, and I made some for that husband of yours as well “The cook was crying as well, her old voice full of pain. Alva made sure to give her a hug too. She was also given a cup of warm cider, to calm down her nerves a bit.

Jaime told me that cider in the south is not warm. I wonder if it will still taste as good…do southrons drink everything cold? They surely don’t get snow falls even in summer, that I will miss…

I will miss throwing snowballs, at least until winter decides to show itself soon enough. But what will be of everyone here when it does ? Who will harvest the crops ?

If father truly is hurt, Alric will still have to act as the lord while he recovers…will father be kind to him? He has never been to close to my little brother, even less than he was to me. Why is he the one returning and not Dravor?

Sara helped her to pack the clothes she would be bringing south. Alva did not have clothes that would be comfortable for the south’s heat, but hers could still be useful once winter hit. Most of them had her house’s colors.

I guess I will get new ones, once I’m south. Clothes fit for a southern lady. Clothes fit for a Lannister bride…Red and gold are pretty colors, Jaime always looks so handsome with his golden armor. Hopefully I will be pretty enough for him with them. Perhaps my good sister can help me pick them…

Is she as kind as Jaime claims? Her son is Joffrey Baratheon. A cruel boy…he wants me and my children to travel now and dared to call us traitors. I wonder who his father truly is. Lord Eddard would not have lied about my nephews being bastards…

She had to trust her husband, of course. Jaime knew more than she did. But who ever doubted the Starks? It was not an easy task…

I should ask to go to the crypts one last time before leaving. My brother lays there, I…she felt a sharp kick, her children were up again. It could be that they were afraid of going to such a place, and she couldn’t blame them.

Alva sighed “I think I have gathered everything I need “ and chose not to go

Jaime said King’s Landing is not a good place to raise our children….yet he wants to remain there. When will I go to the Rock? I have only ever seen Lannisport…

The future of her home terrified her as well. The Starks where gone, what would be fall the North now? Who would be King Robb’s heir? Sansa was now the lady wife of a Lannister too, how would she rule if she had to be the lady of the Rock?

What was the North going to do without the Starks? A maiden could safely travel in her nameday clothes under lord Eddard, but could one even feel safe at home with him and King Robb gone?

Alva wanted to get on her knees to cry, but knew it was unsafe to do so on the first place. She couldn’t even pray on her knees anymore in the first place, and if it was unsafe to such an important task, it was unsafe for her children as well.

“HOOT”  she heard an owl. It was to be expected, the sun had not even shown itself yet. It seemed to be around their hour as well. She swore that one had blue eyes…then brown eyes…then…yellow, it seemed.

“Careful, my lady” the guard who was escorting her said, it seemed that she’d almost tripped.

“I’m sorry, I got distracted “focusing on anything was a hard task at the time. Part of her wanted to just leave as it would make it easier to be done with it already, another part wanted to lay down and cry, and the other was curious about the owl “what color are that owl’s eyes?” she asked, maybe it had been her imagination.

“What owl?” it appeared to have flown away, what a shame.

Where there owls in King’s Landing? Besides the one in her pins, of course. Did such a city allow for creatures to thrive, like the forests in the North did? She liked to see them fly around the castle…

She did not know much about King’s Landing, outside of what she had learned from the books she loved to read. That’s were generations of Targaryens had lived, ever since Aegon and his sisters set their feet on it. Aemon Targaryen, one of her favorite knights, despite what her husband thought, had been born there…That’s where the dragons had once been held, right in the dragon pit. Where Jaime had lived ever since he joined the Kingsguard. That was where two Lord Starks, along with the son and brother of both, had met their demise….

Alva needed her husband to be by her side. She needed to hug Jaime and be reassured by him that everything was going to be all right. Even if that would be a lie…

“Think of something else, just go away inside” that’s what Jaime had told her, after the news of the little Stark’s demise had reached them. I had cried so many tears for them, just innocent little boys whose lives had been cut short too soon by their father’s ward. My husband had been so gentle, trying to comfort me, to make sure I was okay, even if the boys’ elder brother had been the one to best him in battle. Jaime really is the love of my life…

We are going to be parents to two beautiful little babies. Two little lions. And that is just for now, I will give him so many children, as many as he wants. I need to think about him, or else I shall crumble. Go away inside….I need to go away inside…

It helped, but not much. How many of their men had been killed? She had known several of them, who had been around her or her older brother’s age before departing to the south. Many had families among the smallfolk. Some were sons, brothers, cousins, uncles or father of their remaining guards and servants. Everyone in the castle could have lost someone, just like she and Alric lost their brother. But they had no way of knowing. Her nephew only wrote to say her father was hostage, but did not provide the name of the men who where with him. But why did the Freys chose to spare their men? Did they think that perhaps they would have the Iron Throne’s wrath fall upon them for killing the father of the King’s aunt? The boy did not even know her.

“My lady, it’s best if you don’t ride your horse “The Maester’s voice pulled her out of her thoughts “I understand it’s not a good time, but try not to let your mind wander, at least not at the moment” he must have seen her face, that was usually how people would know she had drifted in her thoughts.

“How am I to travel?” they did not have a carriage, which would not be useful in any case.

“Lord Manderly had a litter send for you” as her grand uncle was too fat to ride a horse, he had plenty of those.  

“Maybe Jaime can ride my horse” Alva suggested, wanting at least a chance to see her for one last time.

“I will have the stableboy bring her, in that case” and so they did.

Alva spoke to her horse, perhaps she could understand her “Please be nice to Jaime. I’m leaving home, but if you let him ride you, I can say goodbye to you once we are in White Harbor.” She promised as she pet Night’s mane. She hoped that the horse would have understood.

The sun was about to rise when her husband and her brother came to the stables. Alric’s face looked less pale now, but she could tell her brother was not unwell. Her husband gently pulled her for a hug, she sobbed against his chest, trying to calm for a bit.

“Some of our guards and Manderly men will escort you” Alric spoke, trying to sound firm, but she knew her brother too well. She tried to stay calm, this was her little brother, she had to try to be strong for him, at least. He would soon be the last one of their family there “I…will stay here, as to not arise suspicion” he does not want to see me board the ship…

Jaime had been given a hood, as it was feared what could happen if he was recognized in their ride back. While news had not seen to have spread, few held any love for him in the first place. She feared that her husband could be harmed on their way there.

Saying goodbye to her brother was perhaps the hardest thing she’d have to do “Just take care, all right, brother?” He was a boy. He would be four and ten soon, but still shorter than she was. Alva couldn’t just leave…she cared about their servants, their guards, but especially her little brother.

The litter was waiting outside their castle. Night was good and did allow Jaime to pet her this time. He had been so caring, reassuring her that Alric would be fine. He was going to guide her to the litter, but she felt someone pull her from his grasp.

Alric, face full of tears, even as much as when they had gotten the news about their brother, had run to get ahold of her, desperately clinging to her arms. She could not hold her tears again and began to cry as well, holding him tightly.

Chapter Text

Alric Nielsen was used to having terrible news arrive at his castle. Ever since the war started, it felt like none of them bothered to carry any good ones. Usually, they would arrive by a raven, wings as dark as the letters they brought. But nothing had been as dark as the message carried by the messenger sent from White Harbor.

The Maester had suggested that he should not read the letter by himself. Alric had decided it best to do so. The abomination of the Iron Throne boasted that not only was their King and his lady mother dead, but so where countless of northerns. They made sure to let him know just who had fallen victim that night: Lord Richard Karstark, Jon Umber’s son, Lady Dacey Mormont, Ser Wendel Manderly…so many names. Too many he had met himself. Others he had not.

And many others had been taken hostage. It seemed that the Freys had tried to capture at least one person from as many noble houses as they could. Their father had been sparred…Such a fact did not make much with Alric, as harsh as it sounded. Their house was minor, that’s why they’d been chosen to hide the Kingslayer. Then again, their father was the good father to Lannister….

My good brother is to blame for all of this. He sired the monster who cut lord Eddard’s head off. He is his own sister’s lover. He killed my brother, and yet…yet I had to marry my sister to him protect her. I wish I could have done the same that King Jaehaerys had done to Lucamore Strong, geld the Kingslayer and send him for the wall, it is close enough…

But then his sister would have been made to drink the moon tea. She would have killed herself for sure, and he did want to meet his unborn nephews. Would he even get to do so, now that she was going south?

The letter stated that a ship was awaiting her and his good brother. It was in White Harbor, a day or two by ride…Alric could go, bid Alva farewell as the boarded the ship…

But he could not. He could not put the only sibling he still had on a boat, hand her like that to the Iron Throne…at least, if he was to see her one last time, he wanted to do so in their castle. In their home.

Calling her good brother Kingslayer in front of his sister had been rash, he knew it, she did not like to hear anyone say it. Dravor himself would do it when he wanted to provoke her. But at such a moment he was not thinking clearly. At the moment, all he wanted was to order for the man to be hanged, yet his sister was the only reason he allowed Lannister to live.

Alva, as he had expected, cried upon receiving the news. Their King was dead, the Starks were all dead, save for Sansa. And she was still a hostage to the Iron Throne…Alric had cried as well, of course.

And he cried even more once his sister could not see him. He was the man of the castle, had to remain brave for her. He had to take care of Alva, not the other way around. Yet, it was Jaime Lannister who would go south with her…

The man had been training him for the past weeks. Alric, whilst begrudgingly, had appreciated that fact. Alva was happy with her husband, and the Kingslayer did dote on her, from the few times he was unfortunate enough to see them…and Lannister was the only one who would be able to care for her once she was gone. 

I won’t be able to sleep if I don’t have him swear that he will care for her. Will he allow his hideous son to lay a hand on her ? Will he allow his sister lover to harm Alva?  Will he be a good father, and at least bother to speak with the babes? Mine does not seem to even remember my nameday…

He had to make sure than the Kingslayer would protect his sister from anyone. That he would make sure she and the babes she carried would be happy and safe. And thus, he took his good brother to the Godswood, so his family’s gods would bind the man to keep his wife and children safe. Lannister had bowed before the Heart tree and repeated the vows that Alric had carefully chosen.

He does not call Joffrey Baratheon his son, yet he does not deny it either. He does not say the Queen is his lover, but he does not deny it either. Have the gods finally put some sense into my good brother? Their power truly is amazing…

Alric was carrying his sword, and the Kingslayer had exposed his head. If he was silent, he could slide Lightwarden outside…just one swing, and he could have his head off…he would avenge his brother’s death, as well as the two sons of Lord Karstark and the Hornwood…

But he felt the tree’s eyes on him. It was not a smile, as it would usually have. His eyes were judging, even as Alric’s face was covered in tears. He took my brother. He defiled my sister. He is taking her away. Please, my gods, understand. Let me offer his blood to you… but the tree’s expression did not change. The heir of Northlight Keep decided that his good brother could go intact to the south.

Once the Kingslayer rose, Alric could not hold back his tears. His brother had died in a war that they lost. The Starks were gone, and only giving away his sister would stop more families from going through the same pain than his had. He covered his eyes, not wishing to face the gods or his good brother.  He felt the man put a hand on his shoulder and wished to cut it off with the sword he was carrying.

“Boy, just listen to me” to his surprise, the Kingslayer’s voice was kind “Your sister…she does not wish to go South and leave you behind. That you know well enough. What do you think will happen if she sees you crying like that?”

“My King was killed, his kind mother as well. My men are held prisoner by such weasels, and my sister is to go down to the worst viper pit in Westeros. The only person who can protect her is you…” Alric cried trying to slowly breath “how…just how am I supposed to stop crying?”

“Go away inside” his solution? Such a stupid idea…“Think of your brother, who would have wanted you to be brave. Think of Alva, who will be terrified to think she is leaving her little brother all alone. Think of anything, but just don’t cry, at least not in front of her.”

You are the reason Dravor is dead. You are the reason Alva is leaving. You and your family are the reason the whole kingdom is bleeding. Fuck you, Kingslayer. Fuck that whore you call sister. Fuck the Imp who married poor Sansa. Fuck your father, for fathering you and your siblings. Fuck the abominations you sired with the Queen. Fuck the Freys. I hope you all meet a terrible death, worthy of the pain you have caused…

The thought of that at least helped his mood to calm down, and Alric decided to allow the Kingslayer to pick the gift Alva had made for him. She liked to use her needlework…which strangely was there in the room she shared with her husband. He decided to leave it, his sister could have chosen not to take it with her.

“Good brother, perhaps you could come with us south “the Kingslayer offered as they walked down the stairs “leave someone you trust to guard the castle, while your lord father returns. I won’t lie, King’s Landing is a hideous place, but you could keep training, and your sister won’t be as fearful if she is by your side. “

Alric wanted to accept. Alva was his sister, he needed to care for her, but he had other duties “I need to keep supervising the harvests and protect the smallfolk. With winter so close, I can’t afford to leave. We have capable men, but it’s my duty, Kingslayer…”

He hated that his good brother tried to console him. Alric did not want the Kingslayer’s pity. He was not a boy, he was a man. A man that was to send his sister on a boat to the South, as she had married the Lannister. He tried not to vomit as his sister was comforted by her husband, once they went to meet her.

“Some of our guards and Manderly men will escort you” Alric spoke, trying no make sure his voice would not break “I…will stay here, as to not arise suspicion” I do not want to see her board the ship…

Alric hoped that Night would try to bite his good brother. Perhaps kick him as well, if the gods were kind enough. That was enough reason for him not to oppose that Lannister would ride on the mare.

To his disappointment, however, she allowed the Kingslayer to pet her. Of course, she was Alva’s horse, what else could he have expected?

He could only watch as his sister was about to get on the litter. Alric was a man, after all. The man of the castle. He was a man who was seeing his older sister about to leave him…

He had been the man who got the news that his older brother was dead. He was the man who would now inherit the castle. He was going to be all alone now…

But Alric finally understood one thing: He was just a boy. A boy who did not want to see his elder sister leave him. A boy who wanted his sister with him.

He ran before any of his men could stop him. He pushed the Kingslayer away from his sister with all the strength he had on his body and cried as he hugged her.

“Don’t go…please, don’t go…” he begged. Alric could feel his sister’s warm tears fall on him. 

“I don’t want to, but…father….” He heard her mumble between sobs.

“My lord, your sister is right, your father…” one of his men tried to grab him. Alric did not even see which one, just that someone tried to pull them apart

“THE OTHERS TAKE FATHER “ he yelled loudly, refusing to let Alva go. He was lying when he told his brother that he did not want their sister to babysit him. He would gladly admit he still needed her care, if that could make her stay “THE OTHERS TAKE JOFFREY BARATHEON, HE IS AN ABOMINATION! I WILL NOT LET ALVA GET TAKEN AWAY BECAUSE OF HIM! GUARDS, HELP ME, DON’T LET MY SISTER BE TAKEN AWAY”  but none came to his aid

“The hostages, they will…” his sister was crying, but she also was not letting go of him.

“YOU COULD HAVE MADE HER FALL, FUCKING BRAT!” He heard the Kingslayer yell at him, as the man tried to grab his sister

“Don’t call my brother like that...” Alva sobbed, holding tighter unto him. Had she finally realized that the man was not worthy of her feelings? Would his sister choose to stay with him? “I don’t want to leave…”

“Lad, you are risking dozens of lives “grumbled one of the Manderly men, who, with the help of another one, managed to get him let go of Alva.

But she had not let go of him. She was holding him with all her strength.

“My lady wife, don’t make this any harder for yourself. The boy will be all right, just let go of him…” Lannister told her as he was trying to get ahold of Alva. Alric tried to reach for his sword, but to his dismay, it had been taken away.

All he could do was aim for a kick. How many times had he wanted an excuse to punch his good brother, and now he had a good enough reason. He swung his foot with all his strength…. He was unsure of where he had landed his foot, but he heard the Kingslayer groan in pain. Had it been his stomach or his balls? Alric hoped for the latter, if he was asked. The man was everything he hated everything that had come to ruin his family’s lives.

His own men had not come to his aid. That frustrated him to no end, as he kicked and yelled while being dragged away by the other men, as his sister had unfortunately hesitated after he kicked his good brother. Alric cursed at himself, she worried about the man after all…

Alva seemed to want to go back to him, but Lannister gently grabbed her arm. Alric could not hear what he whispered in her ear. He just saw his sister give him one last glance before allowing the man to carry her to the litter.

“We will ride with her to White Harbor, my lord. Don’t worry. “Of his guards assured him as he was being dragged “we will make sure she arrives safely”

“Bring her back… “he pleaded as he was forcefully taken to his own castle.” Just bring her back…” He was no man, he was just a boy. A boy who his men had chosen to ignore. A boy who was now left alone, his two siblings left to go to the south….

Chapter Text

The journey to White Harbor had been uneventful, thankfully. His little wife rode on her litter, her pretty face full of sadness as she simply looked at the distance. It had been already hard enough to get her on it…

The black mare behaved herself as they rode, which he thanked after the kick his angry good brother had given him. He was tempted to climb with his wife in the litter but refused to look weak in front of the northerns. Jaime felt it was a shame that Night, as his wife had named it, could not join them south. While he thought that Alva deserved a better creature to ride, she seemed to be attached to that one. It was a pity that it was to return back Northlight Keep along with the Nielsen guards. 

It was already midnight once their party reached the port. The ship that had been send for them was a braavosi merchant ship, named The Silver Serpent. According to Tyrion, White Harbor was the only port in the North, and as such, Jaime guessed that it would not have attracted any unwanted attention, having waited for them for so long.

It was not the fanciest ship, the prow shaped to the likeness of an ugly snake woman and the hull painted in a fading purple, common among ships proceeding from Bravos. Least it looked like it was safe and fast enough. No doubt it came from King’s Landing, such types could always be found nearby, and the stench from the capital had attached itself to the ship. So far, the voyage through the seas had also been calm, despite the captain warning that storms could end up catching them soon enough. The crew was made from braavosi men and boys no older than his good brother, who spoke a mix of their own tongue and the Common Tongue.

The sights of the sea would certainly cheer Alva, if only his wife could be made to move or even talk. The little owl had not spoken a word after they had left, not even to sing to her babes or to speak with him. Jaime had some trouble making her eat. Gods, I told you to go inside, but perhaps it’s time you could come back.

She would sleep, very surely. She would stare at the same place for hours. She would occasionally put her hands on her belly. Jaime had done the same, trying to see if that could make her speak once again, as they both felt the movements of their children... But so far, nothing had worked.

“Not only will your brother be blamed for all the Freys’ hostages being killed if we do not arrive on time, but if my nephew does come all the way here to get us, Joffrey might see it fit to hang him as well “ that had been enough to get her going, but also to make her fall into her current state.

“Maybe your wife would like to see the ocean, that will get her to speak again “one of the boys of the crew had suggested to bring her out, but Jaime decided against it. Seeing how she was, moving Alva against her will could leave her in an even worse state.

Gods, she was a talkative little thing usually, but now she was worse than when sickness had taken over her body. He had been able to get her to take the lemon cakes, at least she could recognize she was fond of them. (Of course, his own cakes were full of beets, those he gave to the crew)

Almost a week on board, and she had yet to talk again. Jaime could feel her occasionally hugging him after the third day, and he had hoped that it meant she was fine, but his wife remained as silent as before. By that time, he’d gotten desperate.

“The babes need you…” he tried to tell her, gently caressing her face “please, I know you did not want to leave your home, but you cannot undo it. Just come back…”

“Gods, my little wife, come back “he begged, holding her small face that seemed to stare at nothing. Her soft blue eyes did not have any sadness in them, but also not a sign of happiness, anger, nothing at all. What was to be done if she remained like that forever ?

Telling her about some of his stories had not helped. Jaime then tried to remember the ones about Aemon the Dragonknight, about Florian and Jonquil, but those were just as useful.

“Joanna could be a fine name, if one of them is a girl. That was my lady mother’s. If one is a boy, Gerion can be used, as he was mine and Tyrion’s favorite uncle “please, tell me something, anything. Agree with me, argue with me. “Fit for a Lannister, but in such a case, we will need another set if we have two boys or two girls. Any ideas, my little wife?” Even trying to discuss possible names for their twins could not make her react, as she had not even uttered one single word.

Jaime was unsure of what to do. He had known of men who had gone like that during a war and never fully went back to being themselves, but she had not been to one. Stopping to look for a maester would be wise, least they did not meet the deadline, and she could get worse once the news reached her ears…

He found the crown that he had given to the girl so many years ago right on the floor, after a storm caught their ship and it fell as waves moved the boat. Jaime, back when the Tourney was held, had been older than she was at the moment, at three and twenty. Yet he could barely even recall that day. Perhaps that could make her come back…He grabbed her hands and put the crown on them.

“I was being gentle with you, a child who did not know she was supposed to hate me. The crown is not as beautiful as it was, and you grew to be such a beauty yourself.” The roses had dried long ago, and even if the fire had hurt her fingers more than the crown, it had dulled the color down “More than one knight would surely declare you his Queen-of-love and beauty if you went to a tourney now. I promise to do so to, if you could please come back to me and our children.”

But again, nothing happened. He sighed and took the crown from her, intending to put it back with the other things Alva had been able to pack for their journey to King’s Landing.

“Jaime…” he was taken a back, upon hearing his wife speak. A soft voice, almost a whisper He left the crown with her things and immediately went to see how she was doing “please forgive Alric…. he is not a brat, he is just scared…” she mumbled. Had she heard what he said? If that was the case, he would better find a tourney to join, make sure to keep his promise. Quickly, he set the crown back to its place.

He hugged the girl gently and planted a kiss in her forehead “Seven be good…” nearly a week without uttering a word, and the first thing she thought about was his good brother and him “I forgave him, don’t worry “

The brat had aimed a kick straight to his balls, which hurt more than he would like to say out loud. The ride was quite unpleasant thanks to his good brother, but he had to admire the resistance that Alric had put on to make sure Alva would not go. At the end, he really was a boy. But he was the one to blame for the girl’s state over the past week: Had the brat just waited until they were out of sight to crumble, she would not have done so as well.

“Did he hurt you much? I’m sure he will tell you how sorry he is…” does she not know where we are?

“Maybe if you kiss right where he kicked me, I will feel better “Jaime smirked, trying to distract her. Seeing how red her freckled face got, it seemed to work “it’s alright, I lived to tell the tale…” you worried me much more. 

The girl finally hugged him back, sobbing softly against his chest. “I don’t want to leave…”

“We already did “it would do no good to pretend otherwise, but trying to do so slowly would be better “we have been on the sea for a while now, and a storm has caught us I’m afraid “

“In a boat?” the movement itself was enough to convince her without further questions, luckily “I… have we already left the North?”

“Your grief affected you too much, I’m afraid “he had worried, the news that had reached the castle were too much for his little wife. Even if it meant to spend a year or two in trapped there with every servant and guard wishing for his death, traveling at such a time was not safe for her or the babes she carried. Not in such a state of mind, with the news of Edmure Tully’s wedding so fresh.

But he knew too well that his father, using Joffrey’s stamp, would have carried out his promise. That would have meant his death once news reached the North, he knew as much, and he wondered if the northerns that hated him in any case could have come as close as to harm his wife and the brat. Getting out had been the best decision. In any case, a crow was sure to have been send announcing they had begun to travel down to the south.

“Gods, I’m sorry, I don’t know what happened…” but she was still barely recovering. His wife could perhaps use some help to keep herself there.

“Don’t go away inside again, I’m afraid you are a bit too good at it “an entire week…he almost wished to have been able to do that back when he served Aerys “don’t think about it, for now at least. Dwelling too much on such things is not healthy “forgetting and ignoring was best, particularly in her case.

“I can’t remember anything “of course you can’t, it was as if you had died while still breathing. The babes would kick, I could feel them, but that would not even make you flinch. Alva shook her head “I…might have been a bit selfish, my love. You are about to reunite with your family, I…”

Jaime doubted she was looking forward to meeting them. At the very least, Alva was indeed trying to distract herself from the pain and the fact that she had lost one entire week of her life “Tyrion will surely let you go speak with Sansa, perhaps the cooks can make some lemon cakes for both of you” and I can go see how Cersei is...

Cersei…gods be good, I was so worried about my wife that I forgot about her. She must be waiting for my return… Whilst my wife goes to have a bit of teatime with the last Stark, I could go and see how my sweet sister is doing. Wonder how she reacted to the news of my marriage. No doubt she will want to know how I found myself abed with a northern girl, and I will be more than happy to share all the details with her.

Father will make sure to give his new good daughter a warm welcome, or as warm as he can muster. Two grandchildren that I sired might make him stop trying to pester me about leaving the Kingsguard. If Tyrion is quick enough to get himself a heir, a marriage between our children can be arranged…of course, if she gives me a boy and a girl, it would be unfair not to wed them to each other.

“Sansa is a kind girl, I hope my good brother was kind to her after the news reached “his father had surely made the right decision to have her marry Tyrion.

“I’m sure he did,but don’t think much about it” for the rest of the journey, if the weather allowed, Jaime would make sure that she could walk outside, just as that braavosi lad had suggested “You mother was ironborn, wasn’t she? Once this storm has passed, let’s go and take a view of the sea, I’m sure our babes will love it.”

At last, Alva was back, and he could not be happier.

Chapter Text

According to Jaime, Alva had been gone for an entire week. That terrified her, even if the pain she felt in her heart was unbearable. He really loves me, if he took care for me all this time, but I shouldn’t have brought so many worries to him…

She tried not to think of her little brother, even if pained her. She tried not to wonder if someone had been able to calm Alric once they were gone, she had seen as they had to drag the boy as he kicked and cursed. She tried not to think about how much he had cried once they were separated, his little eyes full of so many tears. She tried not to think…and for that, it was better to set her mind to other matters…

The storm had passed quickly enough, and Jaime had insisted that it would do her good to watch the views. Alva did not put on much of a fight, as her husband had been right. The sea was now calm enough, and the waves would softly hit the ship. The sun was bright and there was not a cloud on sight.

“For someone with iron born blood, you don’t seem do so well in a boat “ her husband told her as he helped her to move around the deck, as she had to watch her steps even more carefully than back in the castle.

“I have not been on a sea voyage ever since we returned home from Lannisport “Alva shyly spoke as she walked with her husband, making sure that she held unto him as tight as possible.

The crew was made all of braavosis, all males as far as she knew. Some were her age, others even younger than her, and the boys would ask if she’d like to join them as they danced to some of their own songs, but Alva politely declined, as it was uncomfortable in her state. And I prefer to stay with my lord husband.

The sea was a beautiful sight, the vast horizons bounded by a vault of azure sky above. The air had a sharp, salty smell. It was not like the one in Whiter Harbor, to where she had gone with her father and brothers at times. It felt different, almost good enough to make her mind think of other things.

Her husband pointed to the water “look, I think we have some companions “silvery spears sliced through the waves, squealing grey creatures that she could not recognize, until one jumped high enough…

“Dolphins!” Alva gasped, once the realization of their identity hit her. White Harbor had paintings of the creatures in some of it’s buildings, but she had never seen a real one before “they are beautiful…”

The creatures seemed to travel with a baby, as she spotted a smaller one next to one. I wonder if they can also have twins, like humans do. And how do they feed their babies? Do they also have milk, or are they like other fish?

The dolphins soon left them behind, much to her sadness, but the sight was impossible to forget. They left while still jumping, one after the other, just as another ship passed by.

Its figurehead was that of a golden-crowned merman, but it did not have a spear like the one in the Manderly sigil. Instead, this merman was blowing a seashell horn. The boat was the same size as the one they were using and had a purple hull, just like the one they were on board did.

“I did not expect to see the Merling King this far north “one of the sailors remarked “the storm seems to have hit them as well, but it’s surprising to see they have gotten delayed on their trip. At this rate, they won’t return to Bravos as soon as us”

.

The rest of the trip was uneventful, lucky enough for everyone on board. The Iron Born had been reported on the other side of the continent, but not a single of their ships had been seen on those waters. Her husband was still worried, but about her, after her mind had forced her to drift away that much. She really could not remember a thing, not a word about what he had said during that time. All she could recall was coming back to her senses during the storm.

The twins had luckily behaved well enough during her strange absence. Jaime said that they’d kept kicking just as if nothing had happened, and for that she was glad. They are more resilient than I am, that they take after their father.

“We should start to think about names for them” Alva suggested as they were both in their cabin. The babes would be born soon enough. In King’s Landing, it seems…Jaime said it was not a nice place to raise them, but it could end being their birthplace…

“Joanna could serve us well, for a girl. And Gerion, for a boy, if we have a one of each “ just like him and Cersei , perhaps he expected that she was carrying a boy and a girl. I think they are both girls or boys, but I can’t quite think of why.

“Both do sound like nice names “ Alva knew why he’d chosen Joanna, that was his lady mother’s name after all “but I wonder, why Gerion?” She was unfamiliar with it

“It’s the name of my favorite uncle, my father’s youngest brother “of him she did not remember to have heard, Jaime had mostly told her about his siblings

“I would like to meet him” she smiled. If they had two boys, Gerion could be the name for one. For the other…Alric said I couldn’t use Dravor, but we don’t have any uncles, and I don’t think I’d like to name one of my children after father. Perhaps Alric could suit…

But would she be able to use a name of her own family, to begin with? She doubted so. Names tended to honor the father’s family, not the mother’s.

“I’m afraid you can’t “Jaime answered, his smile turning a bit bitter “he was lost at the sea some years ago, trying to achieve a dream far too dangerous… but his daughter, my cousin Joy, would surely enjoy to meet you. She could use some company.”

“I’m so sorry my love, and I hope that Joy and I will be good friends “ the Lannisters seem to be a large family, if my husband has more than one uncle. Now thinking about another girl name, just in case it was needed…that was also a hard task.

Maybe my lady mother’s name ? But it’s too squid, and the Westermen are not fond of them either. Perhaps…Cersei? No, she imprisoned lord Stark and took a lover while married to King Robert. Jaime says she’s sweet, but he’s a good brother and won’t want to hear me say that, nor will he realize his sister did such things. I can’t bare to suggest such a name for a baby.

.

Their trip was nearing to its end, according to the captain. King’s Landing was half a day to be reached, if the winds were good. Alva was unsure of what she could expect.

King’s Landing…my lord Paramount died there. So did his father and his brother, and many other northerns as well. I would rather go to Casterly Rock than here, and I certainly don’t look forward to meeting my nephew….

But Sansa Stark was there. All alone, her father, her mother, her brothers and sister were all gone, save for Jon Snow, as far as everyone knew. They were now good sisters, at the very least. And Alva had yet another good sister…

She had told Jaime that she would like to meet Queen Cersei, but she had not been honest. The woman was wicked and a harlot, despite being so astonishingly beautiful, that she could also recall from Lannisport. She also looks almost like that slut I saw kissing Jaime back in Lannisport…I wonder who that was.

“Jaime, may I ask you a question?” The girl decided that it wouldn’t hurt to know. They were viewing the sea once again, Alva holding his arm.

“What is it, my little wife?” Her husband looked ever so handsome. Jaime’s hair was almost as long as hers, as her brother was too paranoid to let him be near anything that could cut…but she couldn’t blame him Alric much, her husband was the best knight in Westeros after all. And that gave her husband a more majestic look, with the sea’s sun making his golden locks shine.

“Back when we met, in Lannisport…I saw you kissing a woman “she tried to recall as well as she could “she was a servant, I think, and had very beautiful blonde hair. Who was she? “

“Are you certain that you remember correctly? It has been nearly eleven years, and you were only six back then “Jaime could be feeling embarrassed, after all, Kingdguards had their vows.

“I can recall everything about that day, my love. She had very beautiful blonde hair and gorgeous green eyes “just like his, and from what she could remember of the glimpses Alva caught of the Queen, she had the same hair color as the woman. What a strange coincidence.

Her husband didn’t answer for a bit, his gaze too focused on the waves, but he sighed “she was an old lover I had, I’m afraid. I was young back then and foolish, but she joined the faith and became a Septa long ago…” Jaime shook his head a bit and then smirked “don’t tell me you have been jealous of her all these years “

Alva blushed and forgot to even ask for the woman’s name “n-no, I am not! I was just curious, that is all…” Maybe she was indeed a bit jealous but would rather not say it out loud. 

Jaime picked her from the waist, making Alva giggle a bit. He is so strong…I’m pregnant, and yet he carries me with such ease.

“Don’t dwell that much in such things,my lady wife. You are not the best liar “ he pulled her for a kiss. How silly of me to feel like that, I’m the only one who Jaime loves…

.

When the Captain announced that they were about to arrive at King’s Landing, Jaime pulled her hand to show Alva the view. He claimed it would be something worth for the eyes.

And he had been right. The Red Keep could be seen from afar,  and despite the strong smell, she was marveled. It’s pale, red stone stood proudly on Aegon’s Hill, named as such after the Conqueror. The books she had read did not make it any justice. While it was smaller than Winterfell, it was still massive. Seven massive drum-towers, crowned with iron ramparts, stood proudly. She could not see quite well the other buildings, but that enough was quite the sight.

“Is it true that it is full of secret passages ?” she asked curiously, her eyes still not drifting from the building. It had been written that Maegor the Cruel had the men who built the place killed, to keep the secrets of the building unknown to others.

“It is, and most of the building lays on the underground “ her husband answered and pointed to one of the towers “that one overlooking Blackwater Bay is the White Sword Tower, where we Kingsguards have our rooms. I suppose that, as Lord Commander, my belongings have been moved to the uppermost floor. My nephew could allow us to stay together there, until you and our babes can travel to Casterly Rock “

It will be a bit hard to climb so many stairs…but if Jaime helps me, it will be easier. He told me the White Book is there, I wonder if I could read it…

They got closer to the shore, and the hideous smell from before had gotten worse by then. Alva could not resist much, the stench was too strong. She leaned slightly and vomited her breakfast on the sea.

Chapter Text

Alva was back, and he thanked the Seven for it. She had enjoyed going to walk on the deck with him, and Jaime made sure to hold her tight. Part of him thought about throwing off some of the braavosi boys off board for trying to ask his wife to dance along with them, but that he justified it with fear that his wife might not be feeling well enough.

But if they dare stare at her a bit more than I’d like, I will make sure that they lack any eyes. She is my wife, so maybe look elsewhere to find yourself a maiden half as beautiful as her.

The captain had told him that his son must have gotten married to Margaery Tyrrel the day before, and that those dolphins they saw could be a good omen for the King’s marriage. Jaime had to make an effort not to laugh: the poor girl could not have gotten married to a worse person. His little wife did not even seem to pay any attention, too busy staring at the creatures as they jumped. Another braavosi ship passed as well, but to that he paid not much mind.

.

He had been surprised to see just how well his little wife could remember the day they had met. She was six, a little thing. I cannot even remember my own mother’s face from such a time, yet she knows I was kissing Cersei. He easily lifted her and decided a kiss would be more than enough to have her stop the conversation. It worked just as he had intended, with the sweet reward of her soft lips against his own.

It was a blessing that Alva had not told him about that sooner, or Jaime feared he would have had a harsher reaction. and even then, it was nothing compared to what he could have done that he known that very same day that the girl had him and Cersei kissing…He preferred not to dwell much on what he could have done to her, but he was afraid that there would have been only one Nielsen sibling left by now.

My lady wife: you grew into such a beautiful maiden and fell in love with me. Yet…I could have cut you down with my sword had I caught a glimpse of you starring at my sister and me. Had I heard your little laugh, you would have ended worse than Bran Stark has…gods be good, you truly were lucky that day, but not for the reasons you might think.

She had gotten the crown instead, thank the Seven. A trusting little thing, who liked to sleep with her head against Jaime’s chest. Her hair was blonde, but not the same color as his. It was paler, but it looked beautiful on her. Her breasts had begun to blossom, perhaps due to the babes she was carrying. The freckles shined beautifully in her face when the sun or the moon allowed their light to brighten it, and her body couldn’t look more beautiful while carrying their children...

King’s Landing would not be kind to her, that much he knew. She was too naive at times, even if she had been able to trick her maids just to be with him. In her small castle that was no issue, but in the Red Keep…Jaime feared that any harm could come to her.

I can’t task any of the Kingsguards to look for her. She might be the King’s aunt now, but my wife is not of royal blood, and none of those men are half as capable as I am. Tyrion surely has his own men watching over Sansa Stark, and if my wife chooses to be by her side, perhaps as her lady in waiting, that shall give me enough time to look for others to assist her. I should make sure to find her a maid as well, one that is not as easy to fool. Perhaps I should ask Cersei for help…

But how did his sweet sister feel? He hadn’t known when news had reached her. He hadn’t been able to explain what had happened, what led him to come back from his imprisonment with a wife half their age. She would no doubt be furious, Jaime would need to calm her down first. Once he explained it, he hoped she would understand what a fool he and the girl had been. Because he didn’t….

I don’t what? Care? No, that is a lie. I care for my wife and our children. I remember few times I have been more terrified than after her little mind decided to drift away. I missed her soft smiles, her warm kisses, the songs she’d sing for our babes. Being able to show her the sea and make her feel less miserable warmed my heart, the little owl has does have own charm. I care about her, I want to see her happy. I want to see our children grow, perhaps hold them both if she allows it…I care, and that’s not something I can deny.

Alva had gotten bigger as months had passed, but Jaime was still easily able to put his arm around her with much ease. He liked to hold her as they slept, fearing she could move and fall in her sleep due to the waves. Or, like his good brother had proved, someone could rip her from his arms as they slept, and that he also feared.

He gently moved away the hair that had fallen onto her face. Such a pretty little thing you are…he caressed her sleeping face and kissed her forehead. How adorable will our little ones look, if those freckles adorn their faces as well. Two freckled lions, bond to each other from the moment they are born…

The girl hugged him in her sleep. It was harder for her to find a good position to sleep, now that their twins were bigger. He knew as much, she would usually have trouble sleeping. So, Jaime tried to make sure she was as comfortable as possible.

I could never hold Cersei like this when she was pregnant. She feared that it would be easier to find us, as her movements would grow clumsier... Yet my wife does seem to like it.

.

A battle had unleashed in the Blackwater, according to the sailors. Stannis Baratheon had lost, along with many of his men who either died or had now declared for Joffrey. Tyrion had used wildfire, which burned men and boats alike.

I killed Aerys for trying a similar trick, but I think I will ask Tyrion about that plan of his when I get to see him. Never expected my brother to go on such a battle himself, that I have to admire. With his wits, he would have become as good as me, perhaps even better, had the gods decided they had to make sure he couldn’t become a knight. What a fearsome warrior, could that little brother of mine had been.

As the Captain announced they were about to reach King’s Landing, Jaime gently pulled Alva’s hand.

“The Red Keep will be quite the sight, worthy for those beautiful eyes of yours” Even if the castle held even more treacherous rats than those found in the Flea Bottom, the building himself was a beautiful welcome. It disguised very well just how awful the place was, a good distraction before they had to get off the boat.

While Alva had loved the sight of King’s Landing, its odor seemed to have been too much for her. Jaime held her as she threw her breakfast into the sea. It took her a moment before she could stand properly again.

“By the gods, what is that awful smell?” the girl seemed like she was trying not to breath from her nose. A wise decision, he had to admit. A sailor handed her a handkerchief, which did not surprise him: it was not an uncommon reaction for any soul that found itself nearby.

Death, Jaime knew, but he did not want to scare her “Smoke, sweat and shit. King’s Landing in short. “You can also smell the treachery too, if your nose is good enough “have you never smelled a city before?” Jaime asked as the boat continued to another part of the shore.  After the destruction brought by Tyrion’s plan, it had been moved elsewhere.

“White Harbor does not smell this bad, I was there more times than I can remember and even the fish market did not smell so awful “she was nearly a shade of green “neither did Lannisport, “ Gods, my poor wife.

“They are to King’s Landing what my brother Tyrion is to ser Gregor Clegane” no doubt she’d heard of the man.

Men were already awaiting for Jaime as his wife once they disembarked. Strangely, he did not see his father, his son, his brother or his sister. This is not precisely the welcome I expected. I thought Cersei would be here, crying about my return, wanting to ask me all sorts of questions. I would have gladly pulled her for a kiss right here…

He was offered a destrier to ride back to the Red Keep, but Jaime decided it would be wiser to ride in the carriage that was destined for Alva. The girl was marveled at the sight of it, thankfully it took her mind away from the stench offered by the city. She is from a house too minor in the north, I suppose this is quite the sight for her as well.

The carriage was made of oiled oak, with a crimson interior, and gilded golden lions were carved into it. Four large horses were pulling it, all beautiful white beasts. It was a small one but would fit both of them comfortably enough. He helped his wife up and thanked that it was windowless: the city would not offer any beautiful sights in any case.

“Is this a wheelhouse?” The girl asked, still puzzled as she looked around their tiny transport.

“A carriage, wheelhouses are even larger “had his wife seen the one that took Cersei to Winterfell, Jaime was sure she’d pass out. Still, he could feel something was not quite right as the carriage moved, but he did not want to worry Alva.

“I thought your lord father would meet us here, with my good brother and good sister “but she had noticed herself.

“They might be busy, my lady. You heard the sailors, my nephew’s marriage to Margaery Tyrrel might have taken place a week ago “I did not see my own son wed, but he is Robert’s, not mine “Southern weddings have celebrations that can last for a month, a tourney might be held just as we speak “That was a lie. Something was wrong, Jaime knew it. The streets were far too quiet, specially if a royal wedding had just taken place. But he was sure if his wife could not remember about Joffrey’s wedding, that excuse would be enough for her.

“I’m sure you will beat any other knight in here, if you decide to participate “ she smiled, her thoughts thankfully had gone elsewhere.

“This time I will, thank Father above you did not see the last one I attended.” it pained him to even think about it.

“I would have loved too” she at least was not thinking about the city’s stench or their odd welcome, he could entertain her for a while “just to see you fight once again.”

“I can’t say it was my finest tourney” far from it, he knew it “I beat enough knights to nearly make it as a victor, but I suppose the Warrior had other plans. Sandor Clegane was able to unhorse me.”

“It does not sound so bad, my love “the girl smiled at him.

“That is sadly not the whole story,” that one he had not told her yet “I fell to the dirt, and it took myself a while to get back on my feet. When I did, unfortunately my helmet had been twisted around. And as if that had not been enough misfortune, I was unable to get it off by myself. Gods be good, I could hear laughs as I was led to find a blacksmith to help me with such an unfortunate situation.” Robert’s had been the loudest, he could remember. And he had to sit still for hours while the blacksmith got the helmet off, as the man could barely hold back his laughter.

His wife also was also laughing, but with her he could not be mad. Jaime faked a pout “does my misfortune amuse you, Alva?” but that only make her laugh even more. The girl leaned and put her soft hands on his face.

“My poor pouting lion…” she imitated him, but smiled “you look rather adorable that way, I’m afraid. I would have made sure that such a day ended well for you…” and her tone did suggest she intended to make good of that promise that very night.

“With my face on those beautiful breasts of yours?” he asked, while she was still holding his face. That made her face turn almost as red as the chariot’s interior, but she nodded regardless. Whatever was awaiting for them in the Red Keep was not going to be kind, better to distract themselves on their way to it.

Chapter Text

Joffrey Baratheon had been dead for one week once they arrived. Alva could not say she felt sorry to hear such news, she despised the boy, even more so after being forced to leave her home. Yet her heart ached for her poor husband. To lose a nephew in such a way…

Poison had taken his life. That according to Jaime’s uncle, whose name she sadly could not recall well at the moment. It had been right at the boy’s wedding to Lady Margaery Tyrell. Alva had to force herself not to smile.

My King also died in his wedding, betrayed by the Freys. Many of our men were captured or killed on it, I suppose the old gods decided it would just be fair for the boy to leave in such a way. They were kind enough to have sparred lady Margaery, at the very least.

The culprit was her good brother, which Jaime protested, insisting on Tyrion’s innocence. A trial had been held, it seemed. Oberyn Martell, prince of Dorne, had acted as a champion for the accused against Ser Gregor Clegane. The two men had fought, with the dornish almost winning…

“It is better if I spare your lady wife from such details, nephew “Jaime’s uncle insisted and sighed “I’m afraid that the gods decided that Tyrion is guilty. You should talk with your lord Father, in any case”

It felt wrong to not feel upset about her good brother’s actions, if they turned out to be true. Joffrey Baratheon was an evil child…

Same age as Alric, he was. But Alric is sweet, and a good brother…. At the very least, the thought of her little brother helped for tears to be in her eyes again, and no one would question why.

She felt nervous, but telling her husband would not be a good idea. Jaime did not look happy, his eyes full of rage as they both walked to the Tower of the Hand, not bothering to say a word, or trying to show her any sight of the Red Keep.

Alva would have liked to ask him questions about the castle but knew better than to do so. It was not the right moment, doing so would make her careless and a fool. “Jaime…” but what could she say? His own brother had been found guilty of killing his nephew and was to die soon enough.

He needs a wife that can reassure him and help him as he speaks with his father. But can I be one ? I can be here for him at the very least. He has comforted me so much already, I wish to do the same…she just gave him a soft kiss on the cheek.

Jaime had not spoken much of his father. He had told her how much he loved his siblings, and for Tyrion, it was easy to know how he felt. A younger brother, one that the gods had not been kind to from birth, making him be born a dwarf. Her husband had a good heart, caring for him and making sure to be by his side.

She was unsure of what she should expect of Tywin Lannister. The man did not have the best reputation up north, but neither did Jaime, and she knew what they’d said about him were lies. Yet she had heard about the faith of the Reynes of Castamere, one immortalized in a song that she did not enjoy singing to her children.  War was ugly, she had lost her own brother to it, but the fate of said house had not been one she’d wish to others.

Her good father had the same green eyes as Jaime. They, however, were devoid of all the warmth that could be found on her golden knight. His head was bald, lacking the golden locks that her adorned her husband’s head. Instead, he had two bushy golden side-whiskers. His gaze made her feel smaller than she’d ever felt, and her mind had decided to drift elsewhere as her husband argued with his father.

“You haven’t even been kind enough to introduce your lady wife” that was enough to bring her back to reality “I had hoped to meet the woman who finally knocked some sense into you.”

“Casterly Rock belongs to Tyrion” she was unsure of just how much she had missed, but Jaime’s voice was bitter “he is innocent, Father. I don’t care what the trial said, he would never - “

“It never did “her good father concluded “and now that you are not a Kingsguard anymore…”

Not a Kingsguard anymore? But Jaime said he’d still remain on it, even after we married. After all, he was not expelled even after killing Aerys.

“Had I known that you would chose to follow Jaehaerys’ example, I would have gone to the wall myself already “her husband was not happy, and Alva couldn’t blame him “but that’s not what matters now, father. My brother is not going to be killed”

“What is your name, dear?” Her good father decided to take matters into his own hands and spoke directly to her.

Even such a simple question was hard for her to answer. She wanted to support Jaime but knew it would not be courteous to ignore her good father. And she was afraid of what could befall her if she remained quiet. ”My name is Alva, good father. It is an honor to be able to meet you” she spoke in a soft voice, trying to mask her nervous state “but my husband is worried about my good brother, I think is best to-”

“A wife must be supportive, but these matters were already solved through a trial by combat “her good father answered. It’s his own son who is to die, yet Lord Tywin seems to be happy…” you found yourself a fine wife, Jaime. Hopefully she will give you more than enough children. “

“That is not what I came here to speak with you “Jaime had not even bothered to look at her while there, and Alva could not blame him. If Alric’s life was the one in danger, I would also do anything to save him.

“Should we not discuss about the future Lady of Casterly Rock?” It sounded so strange to think that her good father was talking about her. That title…she had never dreamed of anything close to that. All she cared about was marrying Jaime, and he had no lands before, having given them up after joining the Kingsguard. And the lady should be Sansa…gods, where was Sansa? Alva had not been able to ask yet and doubted she could at the moment “if I’m correct, your wife does not follow the Faith of the Seven.”

“We were married by the old gods “Jaime answered, clearly not happy that the conversation kept shifting “but that we can discuss later “

“Then a Septa shall be assigned to my good daughter “ the man concluded “so she can learn to say her prayers properly”

That did not sit well with the girl. “I’m sorry, good father, but I can’t abandon my gods “they had blessed with the children and Jaime. Those were her gods

“Of course you can keep praying to your old gods, the Rock has a godswood after all “that she knew, her husband had said so “but the Faith will surely prefer to see Casterly Rock ruled by two of its followers, and the wolves were not kind to the people you shall oversee “ she could not argue against Lord Tywin’s words, as she did not know what had been done during the war by the rest of the North. Still, King Robb would never have allowed innocents to get hurt. That she knew.

“My wife can pray to whatever gods she wishes, as she is not to be the ruler “Jaime spoke, clutching one of his fists “our marriage was not by the Faith in any case, I can still be a Kingsguard”

I can’t be the lady go the Rock, that is too much for me to handle. Her betrothed was also from a minor house, at most she would have had to hear the small folk, just like her father would. But such a task, even with Jaime by her side, who did not wish to be the heir in the first place, sounded worse. So many people would expect to see them, and to run a castle so huge was not an easy task.

“As you said so yourself, unfortunately King Jaehaerys set a precedent “Alva knew the story of the Strong knight who had been foolish enough to marry three wives while being a Kingsguard. She was not sure if his name had been Harwin or Lucamore, but one of them had ended up being gelded and serving as a member of the Nightwatch after getting caught.

Jaime finally looked at her, but his eyes were full of anger, and part of Alva wondered if it was towards her, even if such thoughts were foolish. He loved her, she knew it. Yet the girl was not sure of what should she say “it would be best if my poor wife is allowed to go rest. “her husband concluded as he helped her off the chair.

If I’m not in here as well, Jaime will be able to speak about his brother…She decided not to protest.

“I’m so sorry about Tyrion “Alva spoke as her husband escorted her outside. He did not seem to care much about the passing of King Joffrey “your father will come to listen to you, I’m sure…”

“Just go rest for a bit” Jaime insisted, but waited until his father was out of hearing distance “I will make sure Tyrion is safe, neither your or me will rule the Rock. It’s better if you stay aside, or else father will try to use your presence as an excuse to talk about other matters “

Alva knew it was true and decided to listen to her husband. She did want to ask about Sansa, or at the very least about her father, but knew it was not the best moment for such matters.

I wonder if father is well. He is hurt, but Alric did not tell me how much or what happened to him. But he will surely be unharmed…

Sansa is just a girl, where is she?  My good brother is her husband. Is she alright? Does she worry about him? I wish I could go to speak with her.

“I will pray to the gods that my good father understands that Tyrion is innocent” Alva promised, but she would need to find the godswood first. Do they even have a Weirdwood in the Red Keep?

“I will ask one of the guards to escort you there” Jaime seemed to just want her gone for the moment “gods be good, this is not how I had expected to be greeted “

She reached to kiss his cheek. It was not much, but Alva did not wish for him to be upset “my good father will see reason, I’m sure of that”

Jaime sighed, “Let’s both hope you are right “ he said before calling for a guard to help her move around the castle. The children had thankfully chosen to remain calm for the moment, perhaps they were not quite fond of their grandsire. Not that she could fault them much for that.

The guard that was guiding her wore a mail shirt over boiled leather and steel caps with lion crests. That was one of the men from her husband’s house, her new house. A Lannister guard, no doubt, with a crimson cape on his back. Yet he does not look even as half as handsome as Jaime does.

She was unsure if she should ask for his name, given that Jaime had just given the man the order to help her. Perhaps she could, once she was done praying to her gods. Yet, before they could find it (tho Alva was unsure of how close to the godswood they truly were) her attention was stolen.

Green eyes, with a green usually one could only find in the eyes of cats. Blonde hair, but unlike Alva’s, it was golden. Almost as if someone had stolen it from the sun itself to settle it on the owner of those beautiful curls. Skin so beautiful and fair, just like Jaime’s. The woman was the most beautiful one Alva had ever laid her eyes on, with a slender and graceful figure that she had never seen on any other lady. She wore a gown of sea-green silk trimmed with pale Myrish lace, which only added more to her beauty. Alva had no doubt about who was approaching them.

It was her good sister, Queen Cersei Lannister.

Chapter Text

If Alric Nielsen had learned something, is that doing his tasks as a lord was the best excuse to avoid people he did not want to speak to. First he had done so to avoid his sister, and now he was doing so to avoid his own men.

I needed your help. I needed you to stop my sister from being taken. But you didn’t listen to me…

He knew it was irrational. He knew that his sister had to leave, whether he wanted or not. All his life , Alric had been aware that once she married, Alva would have to live in her husband’s household. Unfortunately, she had not married a Northern. She had married the Kingslayer and was to give birth to his children.

The servants, the guards and his maester tried to speak with him, make him feel better. His favorite meals and sweets would be brought over, but he barely ate, and would only do so in his room. Not that he ate much of it in any case, he did not feel like eating.

Riding his horse was one of the few comforts he had. Alric had the excuse that he had to supervise the small folk, but hated that he had to go with the guards. Sometimes he’d try to leave them behind, but that would mean Spots would be too tired for a ride the next day.

The solution was simple: he started to right Night as well. The mare seemed to also miss his sister, not wanting to run as fast as Alric would have liked. As angry as he wanted to get, he understood how she felt

“I miss her too…” and now I am talking with a horse….and the horse was able to see her even more than I did when she left.

Should I have accepted the Kingslayer’s offer ? Father is to return in any case, and maybe I could have kept training along with him…

But that would have meant leaving their smallfolk alone. He said so himself to the Kingslayer. And as the acting lord, he could not leave, as much as his heart regretted it.

.

“Your lord father is to return soon” the Maester had informed him, a week and a half or such after his sister had left.  It was the hour of the bat already, yet Alric was unable to sleep.  

He did not bother to fake a smile “have his wounds healed already?” Part of him wished not to see him yet. His father was not happy about the decisions he had taken to protect Alva. He also did not care much for him or his sister, never even bothering to speak to them much, and in return, Alric did not care much for their lord father.

I wish it was Dravor who was returning.

“The letter states that, asides from some fever, his recover was thankfully not hard “the maester spoke but sighed “my lord, others would do anything to have the same treatment your family has had. Every house in the north suffered. Thousands of men were killed, both low and high born. And dozens are being held captive, expecting to be ransomed”And no doubt that the iron throne would make sure to bleed them dry of money for the ransoms.

“I will make sure things are ready for when he comes back “if his father was well enough to care for the household again, perhaps he could go south.

He could go to King’s Landing or Casterly Rock, wherever it was that Alva would be.  Alric would have to deal with his good brother and his awful family, but that meant he could protect his sister. But for her, he would deal with a plague of Lannisters if he had to. He could use the excuse that he wanted to continue practicing his sword fighting, and the Kingslayer had made that offer to him in the first place. And if any case, he doubted that his father would even care to have him away.

But that he would not tell anyone yet. Alric thought about maybe asking Sara to accompany him south, fearing that his father might send her away once he learned how Alva had tricked her. He could have a guard or two go with him as well. He just hoped that his lord father arrived soon enough…

.

He had found himself back to training alone once more. He did not miss the Kingslayer, but his lessons and advice had been of much use, that he had to admit. At the very least, now that he was not around, Alric could train with Lightwarden once again, not having to fear that his anger would get the better of him and cut his good brother’s sword hand…or arm the man with steel. That would have been the most foolish thing he could have done.

I could have cut his head off, back when he was making the promise to protect my sister and her children. His blood could have soaked the snow just as we stood, and Alva would still be here with me…

He knew that was a lie. Alva would have cried, maybe would have hated him. So would everyone in the north, as that would have meant that every hostage would have been put to the sword.

It was not fair. Jaime Lannister had killed his brother. He had fathered the abomination, King. He had dishonored his sister…yet Alric felt as if the man had not been punished by the gods for all of his wrong doings, and that could not make him angrier. Even worse, he knew that wishing any ill on him would make things for his sister worse. 

He used his sword to fight with an imaginary foe, trying to recall the words of his good brother, even if he hated the man. Alric lost count of how much time they had spent practicing in the yard.

Not as much as with Dravor. He knew that. His brother, and old Benefren, would hold back, and now he knew it. They were afraid to hurt him, making him too tired, which Lannister hadn’t been afraid to do.

He glanced back. Alva would sit and watch them and even kiss her stupid husband from time to time. Ugh, women. Couldn’t she at least have fallen for a man who had some honor? Or one that hadn’t killed their brother? Even a wildling would have been better…

“My lord” one of the guards spoke. Alric had not noticed when the man had approached him. To make matters worse, he was one of the two who rode along with Alva to White Harbor. He was one of their younger ones, but of course, still older than him “perhaps you could spare with me?”

“I don’t think it’s a good idea “Alric mumbled. I needed your help. I gave you the order to stop my sister from being taken, but all I got was to be dragged away from her.

“It would be best if you could practice with someone. Training is a good way to keep your mind occupied” I know, that’s why I do it.

Alric sighed “Alright….” He wished to attack the guard and unleash all his anger, all of his frustration…

But then all that time he found himself training with the Kingslayer would have been for nothing. Alric stayed calm, blocking all the strokes that the guard tried to land on him.

The guard had not seen any true combat yet, but was twice of Alric’s age. That also meant he was stronger. He would not be able to beat him by going for harsh strikes, that he had very clear.

You are still small, but that is something you can use in your favor, lad. He could hear Lannister’s voice, unfortunately. Move around, tire your opponent. Force them to waste energy, it works with opponents of any size.

And most importantly, Alric knew he did not have to let his emotions guide him. That is how the Kingslayer had easily beaten him the first time. And according to his good brother, how he got captured by King Robb.

He held a tight grip on Lightwarden and would mostly use his energy to either move or block. He had to be patient, that was another lesson Lannister had given him, even if the man had admitted that it was not one of his virtues. Of course, Alric doubted he had any in the first place.

He cares for Alva and their children, I suppose I have to count that…

His moves were swift, and he did not have one drop of sweat on his blonde head. The guard, in contrast, looked exhausted. Alric had not given him any opportunity to move his sword closer to him. Both used their armors, but the guard seemed to be finding it harder to move on it. The boy knew it would be too cruel to keep him like that for a long time.

A quick tap with the blade on the man’s chest declared Alric as the winner. The other guards cheered for him, and the exhausted man seemed glad that it had stopped.

“The Kingslayer taught you well, my lord” the guard said as he tried to catch his breath.

“Thank the gods that Alva did not hear you” Alric smiled, the man had made that mistake once and quickly learned that it was not a good idea. Speaking of his sister…” how was the trip?”

Alric had tried to avoid the guards, and everyone else for that matter. But yet he wondered just how the trip to White Harbor had gone. Had his sister cried once again when she had to get on the boat? Had the Kingslayer made sure that she was not scared? Dravor and her spoke of having been on the ocean before, but they were all little children back then. And while it wasn’t unusual for them to go through the White Knife on a boat, he doubted that it was the same.

The guard sighed “the trip was thankfully uneventful, Night sadly did behave well for the Kingslayer. Not that the trip was easy for him in any case, your kick made sure that he could not sit comfortably “ that made Alric smile, it seemed that he had indeed kicked Jaime Lannister’s balls. A small victory, but one nonetheless “Lady Alva…she was quiet, and would mostly stare to the horizon, or touch her belly. The Kingslayer would always sit next to her, if we had to stop, making sure she would eat. He did not like it when one of us tried to help her, insisting he could do so himself. I must admit that he did seem to be caring for her well enough”

I made him swear he would “did she say anything before leaving?” had they seen Lord Manderly? He could have stopped them…

“It was nighttime when we arrived. Lord Manderly gave the order that no one found that she was to leave, as if news broke out…” she could have been killed “your sister was quiet. She just stared, but did not speak. Night did not take it kindly to see she was leaving, but the Kingslayer helped her to pet the mare. I have to be honest, my Lord. She seemed to have drifted away “everyone in the castle knew it could often happen to her, so it was not a surprise for Alric. He thanked the guard for telling him, it was comforting to know that Lannister was sticking to his promise at the very least.

.

Father had died on his way home. The raven had been sent from White Harbor, as the ship had recently arrived there. Washed overboard, it seemed. The rest of their men had arrived safely and would soon be on their way.

All Alric could feel was rage. He could not cry for a father that did not care much for him, not like he had cried for Dravor. Not once he realized that Alva had gone south, and they couldn’t even get a body to put in the crypts. All he could do now was wait…

“My lord, are you all right?” the maester seemed concerned, his face with a slight frown. Alric knew he hadn’t reacted as expected to the news, but why should he?

I can’t go South now, not with father dead. Someone has to rule the castle. Had he just been injured, I could have waited until his health came back. I doubt he had miss me in any case, but now…

That was enough to bring tears into his eyes. He would not get to see his sister again, only the gods knew when they would be kind enough to allow them to reunite. All he could hope for was that Lannister was caring well for her. Yet something did not sit right with him: just how had his father managed to fall?

Not even half of the men that had gone south with his father and brother returned alive. Of those who did, many had lost a limb, some even two. They were told others were alive but had gone insane. The wedding had seen many of them captured, but even their men were surprised to have been spared. Tales of how soldiers from the other houses were massacred outside in their tents send chills through everyone in the castle. At least of those who were not crying; husbands, brothers, uncles, sons, grandsons and fathers had not returned. The castle and the small folk outside of it were mourning, as news had not reached many until their return.

We knew when Dravor died, they send the news as soon as it was possible. But for the common soldiers, who was to write back home? Most of them don’t even know how to do so.

Most of the ones who made it back where the same age as his brother. Young men who, just like Alric himself, had dreamed of going to the war and fighting. But all he could see now were broken men.

“M’lord, I’m so sorry about your father” one of the soldiers who had come back told him }a day after their return, while Alric was with the maester overseeing the crop harvesting. The man was one of their household guards, and while he seemed fine, Alric had seen him cry as he hugged Sara, his sister.

“I am just glad the rest of you were able to come here “all of them had families who would miss them. Still, Alric needed to know something “how did father fall?”

“I’m not sure the details matter much” The Maester spoke, but Alric thought otherwise.

“My father was to be delivered safely in exchange for my sister and the Kingslayer going to King’s Landing” He said as calmly as he could “I would have expected the Iron Throne to make sure the voyage was safe” he did not want details about the wedding, at least not for the moment.

“M’lord, with all due respect, you are maybe too young to hear this” the guard muttered, and that angered Alric. He tried to calm himself

“I am the lord of this castle, as you have kindly pointed” My brother was cut by a sword, my sister is gone, and my father drowned. I am no longer a child “you would not hesitate if it had been a simple accident”

The guard looked at the Maester, trying to figure if he should speak “Do tell him”

The man hesitated “Your father, while fever had gotten to him, claimed to have seen your mother “he spoke “That’s what he told us, once he had healed. We did hear him calling for her, and the Maester at the twins assured us that it was normal. Me and some of our men tried to insist that traveling by boat in the state he was would not be a safe idea, as he met his wife on the sea”

That Alric did not know, no one had ever told him. He just knew where she was from.

“Your father and the rest of us gave our words that we would not try to take over the boat during the voyage. As much as we wished to do so, none of us could even grab a sword. We were given the freedom to walk on deck, where he would spend most of the time at, just starring at the waves” Alric listened, unsure of what to say, and just wanted to hear the whole story “he said that was were his wife rested, as she had been buried in the sea. Your father started to wonder if she could see him, if she missed him. We told the captain of the ship that it would be best to have him locked in a cabin until we arrived to White Harbor, but he refused. M’Lord, I wish he had listened…”

“Father threw himself off the boat…” Alric mumbled. The guard nodded.

“Storms are common on the sea, the crew had told us. It was nothing to worry about, last week there was a similar one and no boats had been lost to it. But the crew was worried and tied everything they could. I…We did not notice how close your father had gotten to one of the ship’s edges until it was too late. We tried calling for him, but your father smiled and told us he was going to see his wife again. He jumped before we could reach him and we could not see him down. The captain tried to turn the ship around, but we saw no signs of him. M’lord, please forgive us…”

“You did not do anything wrong” Alric could not hold any blame against them. Had fever still been affecting his father? Or was it love that had guided his actions? It was no secret that he would have sooner not have him or Alva and instead have his mother…

Gods be good, if the Kingslayer was to die, would Alva choose to join him as well? The thought worried him, because he knew the answer.

Chapter Text

The task Cersei had given to a Braavosi boy was been simple: he was to toss her good sister over board. The girl was pregnant, and the fall would not have been kind on her. With some luck, she could have drowned. But Osney Kettleblack informed her that the brat had failed at the task. The boy had claimed that Jaime refused to leave the girl’s side for their whole voyage.

She commanded the knight to make sure the boy would tell no one about the matter, but to first take of his tongue for daring to speak such lies.

 Jaime was the one she would normally trust for such a matter. Or at least was, now that the Kettleblacks had proven themselves to be useful.

Sansa Stark had been the one she had used to know everything she could about the girl who had dared to steal her brother. The Nielsens were a minor House from the North, sworn to the Manderlys. A house that was not heard of outside of that cold shithole. Her name was Alva, and according to what the treacherous little bitch had told her, she was sweet and loved her two brothers dearly. Of course, she had also said that the girl had a tendency to drift off from reality at moments. She had inherited her House’s looks: blonde, with soft blue eyes, and a face full of freckles. How had Jaime ended up bedding her was a mystery.

But the Stark girl never said anything about the bitch being smart. She claimed to have been fond of the older girl and had told Cersei that she dreamt of marrying, but besides her ability to read, it looked like quite the opposite in her eyes. Nothing was really impressive about Alva Nielsen, from what she had gathered: a foolish girl like many others, who liked stories of knights and maids. Her future should have been to marry into another lowborn northern House and be used as a brood mare to give birth to as many brats as she could until she could no longer bear more children as stupid as her. But the gods could play cruel japes.

While Tyrion had not been the one to tell her the news of Jaime’s marriage, the little monster had seemed awfully happy to hear of it. Of course, no doubt he knew that their father would now claim to have a new heir, once the little bitch gave birth, and make sure he did not lay his hands on Casterly Rock. And yet, despite of that, he had shown her the gifts he had commissioned for their new sister, as he had called the little slut. A hair ornament, made of fine gold and decorated with rubies. The color of House Lannister, as if the girl deserved to be called one. A House that no one outside the North knew, yet she was carrying the child of her brother. Cersei would have liked to destroy that hideous thing, had she been able to find it in the first place.

 Cersei questioned what the need was to get the girl such things, only for the Imp to so brightly give her reasons.

Why, of course, it’s a shame we couldn’t go ourselves, wasn’t it, sweet sister? It would be fair to give the girl a gift once she arrives, to give her a warm welcome to the family.She could remember the hideous smile he had given her, his mismatched eyes nearly shining as if he was trying not to break laughing. He had barely survived the battle and looked even more hideous now that his nose was gone, but the news had seemed to bring back his energy. The weddings performed by the followers of the old gods don’t include a priest, but rather, the groom and bride meet in front of a Weirdwood and say their wows, before changing the maiden cloak. I bet Jaime smiled at his new bride, once he carried her in his arms. She must be a pretty little thing, if she caught his eye.

The girl’s father had survived Edmure Tully’s wedding. No doubt that he was happy that the little whore he had for a daughter was also the good daughter of Tywin Lannister, or else the Freys would not have feared to have him killed. And he was to be returned, unharmed, to his household without even paying a ransom. Joffrey had suggested sending him in pieces, so his new aunt would know that traitors shouldn’t be forgiven even if related to the King, but father had forbidden it. Her poor boy…

Not only had she lost Joffrey, but father had seen that day’s morning as the appropriate moment to finally announce to her that Jaime was to leave the Kingsguard and return to Casterly Rock, as the letter of his return had arrived on the day of the wedding. That was a fact that Cersei now recognized as a bad omen of what was to come. She would need to find a way to deal with that girl. 

Senelle had told her about the arrival of Jaime and his wife. Her father had intended for a splendid welcome for his son, with Joffrey announcing later that he would no longer be part of the Kingsguard. Cersei was to kiss the little bitch’s cheek and welcome her to the family. The thought of it repulsed her, but yet, she intended to greet the girl before seeing her brother.

Sansa Stark had claimed to not have seen the girl for a year or two. By now, she was either six and ten or seven and ten. Not that it mattered, Cersei intended that she would not live to see one more name day.

Cersei had made sure not to go with any guards, only by herself, as it was the best way to meet her good sister. Jaime and his wife had gone to speak with father, but she doubted that the girl would be well enough for it after a long trip.

It was not hard to recognize the girl. A face adorned with freckles, and a head full of pale, blonde hair worn in a single braid. Soft blue eyes that looked puzzled at the castle around her. Sansa had said that her house’s colors were purple, like the long sleeved dress the girl was wearing, and the pin of the white owl carrying a lamp shined in her chest. She was accompanied by one of the Lannister’s own guards.

The man bowed his head “Your Grace “the girl stared at her with a blush before doing the same.

“Good sister…I did not expect to meet you so soon” she mumbled as she bowed her head too. This was the girl who had made Jaime act like a fool? Her breasts where barely showing despite being pregnant already.

This trembling creature can’t be the future lady of Casterly Rock. And won’t be, if I can help it.

But for now, she would need to tolerate her.

“I was expecting to find you with my brother “Cersei would search for Jaime later, she needed to hear from him what had happened and ask a thing or two from him, but that the girl did not need to know.

“H-he is speaking with Lord Tywin” who no doubt had told him of his plans. Jaime would not take them well, but it was his fault for having taken the bitch to his bed “is a pleasure to fin-“

“And why are you not by his side?” She cut the girl off. If her brother was to get a wife, she would have expected her to stay with him.

Alva Nielsen’s lips trembled before she was able to speak“I…I wanted to pray, my lady” that girl could not be the lady of the Rock, if she was so weak.

“It’s your Grace” Cersei was kind enough to correct her, instead of asking for her tongue “even my guards know how to address me properly, it would be good for you to learn how to as well “

“Y-yes, I am sorry, my…Your Grace “the girl kept starring at her, a blush on her face. No doubt she had never seen a woman as beautiful as herself “I wanted to go pray, your Grace.”

“The Royal Sept is in the opposite direction” Cersei reminded the guard

“Lady Lannister asked me to take her to the Godswood, your Grace” Lady Lannister..he dares to call this foolish bitch by such a title?

“I pray to the old Gods, your Grace” the girl tried to avoid looking at her eyes

“I think I shall join you, dear good sister” Cersei faked her best smile, which only made Alva’s cheeks turn even redder. Jaime was her brother, after all: the little cunt must have noticed how alike they looked. The girl was wise enough not to refuse her.

Cersei ordered the guard to leave them alone, she wanted to get to know Jaime’s wife by herself. It had been a long time since she was last at the Godswood. Lord Eddard Stark had decided to warn her of his plans, telling her to take her children and flee…and now his family was all but gone. And once she caught Sansa Stark, she would make sure of it.

“Your Grace…could you please help me?” the girl clung to the sides of the walls as best as she could. Her belly was too swollen, perhaps she would be giving birth soon enough. The marriage had been because of that miserable creature she carried. She hoped  that both mother and child would die in childbed, if they managed to survive until such a point “I’m afraid to fall...”

What a whiny little bitch “You will rule over Casterly Rock with my brother, walk by yourself” Cersei spoke. The girl looked at her with such a pathetic look that she nearly felt pity for her.

“I’m carrying twins, your Grace. I can’t move by myself with much ease” she was too slow for Cersei’s liking.

Twins? This pathetic creature was deemed fit by the gods to carry not one of my brother’s children, but two? If Cersei could just push her with all her strength at moment, things would be much happier for her. She offered her good sister her arm.

“Why, sweet Alva, you should have said so sooner” she said with a smile on her face. The girl’s eye widened, it seemed the kindness had come as a surprise.

“Thank you, your grace” Alva smiled shyly.

I would rather put my hands around that little throat of yours and watch as the light slowly left your body, but that can wait. She helped the girl walk to the heart tree and even had the courtesy of helping her to sit on a nearby bench.

The girl thanked her once again, but stared at the oak tree. Alva Nielsen remained silent for far too long for her liking, simply looking at the tree. It did not even seem that she was praying like the girl had claimed she wanted to.

“Is there a problem, good sister?” Cersei gave her hand a light squeeze, which was good enough to bring her back and make her squirm in surprise

“I…sorry, your Grace…” it appeared that she had indeed drifted away in her little mind, just like Sansa Stark had said she would do “why is the heart tree an oak?”

“The dragons could not bring a Weirdwood here, despite all their might” such a fool, the answer could not have been more obvious. It seemed that the explanation was simple enough for the lackwit’s mind, as the girl closed her eyes.

I should slip some moon tea into her drinks, if I get the chance. Sadly, I do not think Pycelle shall be able to fetch me some, and the old man can’t be trusted in any case. Not only had he been to slow to help Joffrey, but the Grand Maester had been overjoyed when her father announced to the Small Council that Jaime had sired children and married the little bitch.

My brother must have been so bored, and missed me terribly, if he decided to bring this girl into his bed. But if Jaime had dared to think the whore was close to her replacement, he would have the disgrace to see just how angry she could get.

“May I ask what is it that you are praying about?” Cersei asked, once the girl had opened her eyes again. It took her good sister quite a bit to answer, her lips trembling as if she was trying to find just what to say.

“I…was praying for your son, Your Grace” maybe learn how to lie better, you little bitch. Were you praying for Robb Stark and his mother? “Your uncle told us about his death, I can not believe the gods took him at such a young age...”

Yet they allow you to live “It was my own brother who took his life, not the gods “that twisted little monster “I have been praying for the gods to be fair and make sure that his execution is a painful one. Let’s hope they listen to both our prayers”

The girl shivered, at the very least she was smart enough to fear Cersei “I…hope they do, your Grace” she spoke quickly, almost in a mumble “I prayed for my older brother as well, he died too…”

No doubt that the boy had died a traitor, fighting under Robb Stark’s banner “Let’s just hope they find peace, wherever the gods took them “her son in the heavens, and the girl’s brother in the seven hells.

She had not bothered to pray. Those were just trees, and the gods had taken her son. They had also put that foolish little creature into her life.

“I wish we could have met under better circumstances, your Grace “the girl spoke with a soft voice. At your funeral would have been my preferred choice. “I’m so sorry about your son’s passing”

“Oh, dear good sister, I thank your condolences “She had decided to get rid of the girl long before even meeting her, but now that Cersei had met her, it was hard not to laugh. Maybe she was older than Sansa Stark, but she was even more of an idiot.

So many things that could be done to dear Alva. A fall was her preferred choice, punishing her for daring to carry her brother’s child. It was a shame that the girl was not there when the riot had broken out. The though of the girl being raped by a dozen men just as Lollys Stokeworth had been sounded all but too amusing. If she wanted to be a whore and open her legs, then Cersei would have liked to see that wish granted.Poison was not an option, it would not make her suffer like she’d like. As much as she wished to slip moon tea on her drinks, Cersei did not think it would work at that stage of her pregnancy. Or maybe it would, and too well. If only she could trust Pycelle with her doubts…

“If I may, your Grace, I would like to go rest” at least she had understood quickly enough how to address her Queen. Cersei was kind enough to help the girl get back on her feet and walk back to the guard. It had been her job to prepare the room for her brother and his wife, and that had given her an idea or two. Maegor’s Holdfast had been deemed as appropriate enough, as her lord father expected to send Jaime and his wife to Casterly Rock shortly after they arrived.

She had asked Senelle to make sure the serpentine stairs that let there would get cleaned as soon as his brother returned. They were treacherous, of course, and more so now that they had just gotten cleaned. It would be easy for the poor girl and the guard to slip. No doubt the man might as well get send to the wall after it, and Cersei would be so devastated for her unborn nephews, as the fall could certainly be fatal. Still, the Queen doubted that she would be lucky enough to have her fall that very same day, but it would not hurt to at least try. It had taken time to finally have Robert killed, she could wait as well with the girl.

“Please take my good sister to her room, she certainly needs to rest after such a long trip “Cersei ordered, and the man vowed his head.

If she was honest to herself, the little fool could be useful. Alva Nielsen would serve to have the rumors about her children silenced. After all, if Jaime had bedded another woman, Stannis Baratheon would be seen as a liar. It would make Ned Stark appear as a liar as well.

If Jaime grieved for her passing, it would be further proof of how senseless such rumors were. Still, the girl did not have to live to be useful. If anything, she would be of much more help if she died.

Chapter Text

Alva had not expected to meet her good sister so soon. She was gorgeous, more so than any other woman that she had seen. And, if she was honest, by far the most intimidating woman that have ever talked to her.

I should not have called her my lady, I realize now. Thank the gods I did not say so in front of more people, embarrassing my good sister and myself like that would not have been a good way to start. She would have been reprimanded for not addressing  properly their overlords back in her home as well, she knew as much.

Should I have remained by Jaime’s side while he spoke to his father? Lord Tywin kept trying not to speak about my good brother, and my husband is really worried for his sake. I am doing more help by not being by his side at the moment, just praying that at least my gods do show that Tyrion is an innocent man who did not commit such a terrible action.

“I think I shall join you, dear good sister” Cersei’s smile was so beautiful. It cut like the sharpest knight, and she looked just like her husband before he had let his beard grow. Alva felt a blush creeping on her own face.

Of course, Alva could not oppose to allow her good sister, the Queen (although not her Queen, that was Queen Jeyne, who the gods had thankfully sparred) to join her for praying. So, she had no choice but to go with the woman to the Godswood. Gods be good, and the guard was to stay outside….

Her children chose the right moment to start to kick with all their might, to make matters worse. She could barely walk in the first place, her belly had grown much more than she’d ever seen any other woman’s belly do. Her feet would at times feel hotter and look bigger than they’d normally do. That fact she’d felt to embarrassed to tell her husband, but they made moving too hard.

“Your Grace…could you please help me?” all she could do was to hold the walls, but those were soon going to be gone. It was not easy for her to move, and the last thing she’d wanted was to suffer a fall.

“You will rule over Casterly Rock with my brother, walk by yourself”I can’t be the ruling Lady, that title should go to Sansa…by the gods, where is the poor girl? I need to ask…

Maybe she had been wrong at judging her good sister. Once she understood her explanation, Cersei had been more than happy to help her walk, and for that she was more than grateful. And yet…

She knew what had happened to Lord Stark because of her. Because of her dead son. Being so close to the Queen made her nervous, but at the same time, Alva couldn’t help but to find her good sister charming. And her kindness had caught her unaware…

And once again, she had been lost in her thoughts. Did Jaime know what his sister had done? Alva had not dared to ask him. If someone accused Alric or Dravor of doing acts so unforgivable, she would be angry at that person. Unlike the accusations against Tyrion regarding poor Bran Stark, everyone knew what Cersei had done, how he had her Lord Paramount imprisoned. But she did not wish for Jaime to be angry at her, Alva loved him too much…

“Is there a problem, good sister?” She felt a squeeze in her hand, and that had made her come back from her thoughts. Gods, she kept drifting too much…

“I…sorry, your Grace…” she needed a lie, one that would not leave room for much question…and the tree in front of her helped “why is the heart tree an oak?”

“The dragons could not bring a Weirdwood here, despite all their might” it made sense, somethings not even the Targaryens could achieve…

She had not noticed, but it was quite an odd godswood. Weirdwoods, their faces carved and observing, were a reminder that their gods where there. The lack of one was strange, but the explanation Cersei gave was more than enough.

Closing her eyes helped her imagine real Weirdwood. Would the gods be able to hear her, all the way down in King’s Landing? The oak tree would be all she had for the moment, unless she decided to pray to the Seven instead after all.

And thus, she found herself praying for Joffrey Baratheon…. that had been a terrible lie to tell, but Alva made sure to beg the gods to be merciful to the boy. He had done wicked acts, but maybe, just maybe, they could find some good in him. Even if the heart tree was not a Weirdwood, it was the closest she would find to one, and going against her words would not be a good thing to do, least it displease her gods. She prayed for Dravor as well, hoping he was in a better place. She prayed for King Robb and his mother, and for all those slain at the wedding with them. She prayed for her father to have a safe return, and for Alric to be brave without her. But mostly importantly, she made sure to beg the gods to show that her good brother was innocent, as she had promised to Jaime.

Jaime…. He had had told her about his sister, . He claimed that she was sweet and could charm anyone. She could see why: the woman was like a mirror of her husband. Her smiles were so charming, surely any man who had seen it would do anything for her…

“May I ask what is it that you are praying about?” she heard her good sister speak.

Gods be good, she will not be pleased if I tell her the truth. “I…was praying for your son, Your Grace” it was part of the truth, as she would not dare to lie in front of her gods. No harm would come if she hid the other part “Your uncle told us about his death, I cannot believe the gods took him at such a young age...” it had not been a good way to go, despite his horrible deeds.

 “It was my own brother who took his life, not the gods “Jaime says otherwise. He loves Tyrion and is trying to say his life, that is why am not by his side “I have been praying for the gods to be fair and make sure that his execution is a painful one. Let’s hope they listen to both our prayers”

 Too wish such a faith unto her own little brother…she did not dare to contradict her good sister. As beautiful as Alva found her, the woman just would make her cower in fear in seconds just by talking “I…hope they do, your Grace” Alva spoke quickly, almost in a mumble, and tried to change the subject “I prayed for my older brother as well, he died too…”

 “Let’s just hope they find peace, wherever the gods took them “Dravor in heaven, and King Joffrey wherever the gods deem it fit for him to be at.

As beautiful as her good sister was, something in the way she looked at Alva made her not only feel small, but worthless at the same times. It was how father at times had looked at her and Alric, particularly around any anniversary of their mother’s death. Something unwanted, something that should not be there. Something that would rather be traded for someone deemed more valuable…

She just lost her son. The poor woman most be feeling rage consuming her. That must be the reason… I should not judge her right now, if we have just met.

“If I may, your Grace, I would like to go rest” she was indeed tired, but Alva mainly wanted to get away from her good sister at the moment. Under better circumstances, their meeting could have gone better. Had they arrived a day or two before her son’s death…Well, her husband might have decided to represent his brother during the trial. He could have beat Gregor Clegane, no doubt. But would the Queen be happy about such a decision? Alva had no doubt that she would have not.

“Please take my good sister to her room, she certainly needs to rest after such a long trip “her good sister ordered, and the man vowed his head.

She thanked the gods when the Queen allowed her to go on her way. Alva had questions that she would have liked to see answered by her good sister but figured that it was simply not the best time for them.

Of course, Alva did not know where her room would be. The Red Keep was unknown to her, the closest she had gotten to know about it was through books that talked about its history. Maegor the Cruel had made sure to kill the men who built the place, to prevent anyone from fully knowing the secrets of the castle. She wondered just how much they could hide…Dusty black armors sat in the corridors. They seemed to have been a relic from the times of the Targaryens, as the colors did not match those of House Baratheon. And quite strangely, Alva noticed quite a lot of cats roaming around.

 They came in all colors and sizes: small, fast things who curiously looked at her and the guard. Big tom cats who would make the others cat run. Black, white, orange, brown and the mix of them. They stared with blue, yellow, or eyes as green as her husband’s. Some even had one eye of a color and one of another, or were missing one too. She could not count just how many of the creatures she was seeing.

Could I keep one as a pet? I saw a pretty cat with black fur and orange spots on it’s face, and such pretty yellow eyes…or that white and orange one with brown eyes that tried to catch that cat’s tail, they are so adorable. That she could leave for later, the creatures seemed more trusting than the ones at White Harbor’s fish market.

The guard held her tightly for a second as a huge, black cat jumped in front of them and hissed at both. The poor thing had only one ear and looked as if it had never been properly cleaned. It stared at them with big yellow eyes before going on its way,

“My apologies, Lady Lannister “the guard spoke. Gods, Alva had not asked for his name “That tom cat believes itself to be the King of the castle” Perhaps the King of cats, as the rest of them quickly scattered after it decided to appear.

Soon they reached serpentine stairs, which Alva assumed might lead them to her new room. But before they had even taken a step, a voice called for them.

“Oh, my apologies, but the stairs have just been cleaned” the voice belonged to the ugliest woman that Alva had ever seen. She felt guilty about even thinking so, but it was the truth. She was plump, had a round pink moon of a face. But even then, she had a soft, matronly, look to her, and a hair fun of heavy dark curls that did look beautiful enough. Her smell, however, was not one to complain about: lemons always gave a very beautiful scent. Her clothes gave away that she was a maid “It might be better if this poor girl does not climb through them if she is heavy with a child already.”

“And how should I bring Lady Lannister to her room?” the guard asked. Gods, it still felt weird to be called by such a title.

“Lady Lannister?” The woman gasped and quickly bowed her head “my apologies for speaking like that, my lady. I did not know that you had arrived. “

“Do not worry about it “Alva was unused for the servants to act in such a way, it felt strange “you can just call me Alva” tho that could give trouble to both the maid and the guard “or Lady Alva, if you prefer it”

“I should not suggest this, but perhaps it would be better for Lady Alva to cross the tunnels that us maids use to get through the castle “the woman did look at her a bit fearfully, something that came to her as a surprise. While his father could be harsh to the maids if they made a mistake, she did not recall any of them ever having that same look

“I very much appreciate the idea” Alva tried not to scare the poor woman “Please, I would prefer to use the tunnel, for the sake of my children” she added as she looked to the guard, who gave her a nod.

The woman led her to one of such tunnels “Are there spiders inside?” they are not creatures I enjoy seeing, and often make themselves comfortable in places as this

“Don’t worry, my Lady. Spiders are harmless if left alone “the woman spoke as she led the way. Alva wondered how it was possible to move around the tunnels without managing to get lost.

Surprisingly, the tunnel made it appear as if they had not even taken stairs in the first place. As dark, and as full of rats as it was, it helped to move around in an easier way. And she was quite thankful for it.

“My lady, if I may ask: why did you speak about children? Are you carrying more than one?” the maid asked. She thanked that the woman was more talkative than the guard, it helped her nerves to calm easily.

“My maester said that I might be having twins “Alva answered with a smile “ And I believe him as well, my children kick quite a lot”

“How wonderful, just like the Queen and her dear brother” the woman smiled, tho Alva was sure that she had heard the guard snort, but she did not say a word “Hopefully you give Ser Jaime two healthy children”

“Thank you for your kindness” her welcome to King’s Landing, despite everything, had not been that bad. The woman opened another door, and that left them in front of a room.

“I would appreciate it if the Queen does not hear that we did not clean at a timely manner for them to dry” the maid told her. It was strange, she could swear that her eyes were violet…but Alva was sure it was just her being confused, like all those times with the owls back at her home.

“I will not tell her, and I will please kindly ask my guard to do the same” Alva promised. She also shouldn’t bother Jaime with something so unimportant, her husband had too much to think about at the moment.

The woman sighed in relief “I thank you very much, my lady. I hope that you find your room adequate”

Alva was soon led to her new room, and the guard retired as well. And she was glad: the gasp she gave upon seeing the place would have been an embarrassment, but the place was simply quite the sight. Bigger than any room in her castle for sure, and even bigger than those in Winterfell. Adequate was too little of a word to describe it.

Their belongings had been carried to their room, and had already been packed into their place, but there were other things that had been left for her and Jaime. Alva had never seen so many dresses in one place, but her wardrobe had more than she could even count. Red and gold, gold and red, some even green…. And she did not even want to think of the jewelry that was on her furniture. If her House and all their neighbors gathered all their treasures, Alva doubted that they would have as many. She even wondered if the Manderlys and the Starks had as much gold. Of course, her golden crown was more precious than all of it…

But her attention was stolen for a moment, however, by a head ornament. It appeared to be a hair net, made of fine gold. The red rubies on it shined very nicely, and it reminded Alva of how her golden crown had looked when Jaime first gave it to her.

Chapter Text

The conversation with his father had not been of much use, even after Jaime had his lady wife leave them. He could not make the Lord of Casterly Rock relent and declare Tyrion an innocent man, so that he would have to take into his own hands. It did not sit well with him, his brother was innocent, he knew as much. Lord Tywin instead had tried to gift him a valyrian sword, but not even a hundred of them would be worth his brother’s life.

His only victory was that Jaime would be able to remain as Lord Commander of the Kingsguard for the moment. The thought of choosing one among its current members had been unappealing for his father. So, until his children were born, he’d be able to remain in it…and of course, it would not be possible for Jaime to travel to the Rock with his newborn babes and a wife that had just given birth. That would keep him in his position for even more time, he’d just have to remind his father of that.

Jaime did not argue when his father told him that his room had been moved from the White Tower to Maegor’s Holdfast.  

Alva will have an easier time going there, instead of all the additional stairs that she would need if I had the Lord Commander’s room. And I can’t bring myself to leave her all alone in here, King’s Landing is not a place for a girl like her.

He had promised to take care of her, right in front of the gods that had seen them married. And that was not his only reason: Jaime could admit that he was fond of his little wife. Seeing Alva drift away for so long had been enough to knock that much sense into his head and realize that he could not bear if something happened to her.

His father had already picked servants for his wife. Seeing that there were not many in her castle, it would probably be a shock for her to have four maids that would listen to every command she gave the,. But with her pregnancy so advanced, Jaime knew she would welcome having extra help.

Before going to join his wife in their new room, Jaime decided that he should write in the White Book. He doubted that anyone would writen on his page, ever since he had been gone from King’s Landing.

I told my lady wife a bit about what was written here. He could remember the girl insisting that Ser Criston Cole’s death had been fair…of course, being a northern, it was expected that she’d have such thoughts. Jaime wondered if her ideas would change if she got to read the book herself…Maybe once she gives birth to our children, I could get her here so she can have a look. Let’s see if she still thinks that Cole’s fate was just.No doubt she would also want to have a look at Aemon Targaryen’s page.

Many great men had their lives told in the White Book. Jaime was, however, another Kingsguard who had gotten married and paid the price for it. He only had one wife at least, unlike Strong who had managed to take three. 

The celibacy vows were rarely upheld by his brothers. Jaime himself knew quite well that every man had broken such promises at least one. Lewyn Martell had a lover, back when he served Aerys. Everyone knew, but it was a secret kept from the King’s ears. He had decided to listen to ser Arthur Dayne and kept his mouth shut. Of course, breaking his vows with the Queen or marrying was a much worse crime.

The White Book was well behind. The deaths of Ser Mandon Moore and Ser Preston Greenfield needed to be entered, and the brief bloody Kingsguard service of Sandor Clegane as well. New pages would need to be started, and he would need to summon a septon to draw the new shields.

Ser Barristan Selmy had preceded Jaime as Lord Commander.  The shield stop his page showed the arms of his House Selmy: three stalks of wheat, yellow, on a white field. Jaime was amused, but not surprised, to find that Ser Barristan had taken the time to record his own dismissal before leaving the castle.

Jaime took the quill and begun to write on his page.

Defeated in the Whispering Wood by the Young Wolf Robb Stark during the War of the Five Kings. Held captive at Riverrun, taken north to Northlight Keep. Married Lady Alva of House Nielsen under a Weirdwood tree. Returned safely to King's Landing by a boat.

When he was done, more than half of his page still remained to be filled between the gold lion on the crimson shield on top and the blank white shield at the bottom. Ser Gerold Hightower had begun his history, and Ser Barristan Selmy had continued it, but the rest Jaime Lannister would need to write for himself.

And that had him ponder just how should he finish his own page: Killed a king, fucked a queen, fathered two kings, and got dismissed for having gotten married. He had truly managed to be the worst Kingsguard in history. And possibly the only Lord Commander in history that knew quite well when his days in the position would come to an end.

And all because he wished to have Cersei by his side. Cersei, who had to see how their son died in his own wedding. Who he had missed terribly, not seeing her for almost a year. Who he had bedded a northern girl just to try to have her embrace.

He wanted to blame Alva for approaching him in the way she did. He wanted to curse at his good brother for having forced him to take the girl as his bride. And yet…Jaime could not quite do it. As much as he wished to remain in the Kingsguard, at the moment, he could not imagine himself without his wife. He wanted to meet their children as well, as for the first time, he would not have to pretend they were not his.

But he still needed Cersei by his side. He could not imagine his life if she was away, with him having to hold court at the Rock every day. The thought of it was almost a nightmare. If only he could get his sister to go back to their home as well, having her and Alva by his side would make the thought of such a life more bearable.

His lady wife was either praying at the godswood or resting in their new bedroom. Still, Jaime needed to be by himself for a moment or two, and his former room on the White Tower would be adequate for it. Not the Lord Commander’s quarters, but the one he had been occupying ever since he had been given his white cloak. There he would have some time to think and get the ideas on his head clear would have been more than enough…

Had Cersei not been waiting for him in his bed, that was.

Even if the Maiden in person had appeared in front of him, Jaime could not have imagined a more beautiful sight, except perhaps his wife singing to their children that night…

His sister allowed him to put his arms around her as his lips searched for hers, hungrily kissing her as he had not done for more than a year.

They should have talked instead. Their son had just died, he had been gone from her side for far too long, and had come back married to a girl half their age.  The only reason he had taken his vows was to be next to Cersei and yet had been stripped for his White cloak in all but name. Soon enough they would be parting ways again…..

Both were naked as in their name days before either could speak a word.

He had never taken Cersei at the White Tower. Jaime had been afraid that they would be heard bu his White brothers, that they would be found. Cersei had shared the same opinion, and tended to be twice as cautious…They both knew very well how foolish it was to do such a thing…. But they had missed each other much more than words could say. Anything and everyone else just did not matter at that moment.

Jaime kissed Cersei’s lips. He kissed her neck. He kissed her breasts. He kissed her cunt…Every single inch of her had been on his mind every time he took his little wife. The foolish girl who had begun by sneaking into his chambers, bringing him anything he wanted…

But he wanted Cersei. He knew that much, every time he had taken sweet Alva. It was not her who he had wished for, making the girl turn on her back.

What should I do, if we ever get careless enough that it’s my wife who sees us together? She saw us kissing, back when we first met…I could just lie to her. Tell her it was a dream, or that her mind was playing a trick. Or I could just tell her the truth, save for the part where my heart belongs only to Cersei. Maybe she’d like to join us, Alva is likely to find my sweet sister to be quite a beautiful sight…In that case, I could have them both, bed them both. Perhaps I could even watch them bed each other, there are a thing or two that my wife could learn from Cersei…But he doubted that Cersei would even agree with his idea. He would need to explain himself to his sister, eventually.

Gods knew how much he had missed her. How much he had missed to be inside her, and judging by the noises that escaped her mouth, his sister had missed him as well. He finally felt complete once again, not like every time he had bedded his wife…

I just hope that her little face isn’t full of tears, if she ever finds about me and Cersei. I hate to see her cry. Some soft words could help her calm, and she’d surely appreciate if I held her tightly. Of course, I’d rather show my wife that she’s beautiful as well…

Why was he thinking about Alva when he was with Cersei? She was beautiful, of course, but not as much as his sister. Her soft blue eyes were beautiful surely, and so were her little moans…. She lacked the teats that his sister did, Alva’s were smaller…Of course that did not mean that Jaime did not enjoy taking them into his mouth at any chance he got. Her figure was not as slender, but he enjoyed touching her cute ass when they fucked..

I tried to fuck her from behind at every time I got, to avoid seeing her beautiful face. Because it is Cersei that I want, not her. Every time I had wanted Cersei. Even when we kissed, it was my sister who I wished for, not sweet Alva…Yet he had married her, as he did not wish to know if she would have chosen to throw herself from a window if she lost their children.

Cersei had been kissing his neck, earning moans from his own mouth. Jaime kept thrusting inside her, it seemed that both of them were close to finishing. It was unwise to be there, anyone could hear them. Any of his white brothers could come through the door at the very moment and catch them in such a position. It had been one thing to push Bran Stark out of a window, but a Kinsguard suddenly dying in such a manner would surely raise questions.

“Cersei…” he whispered against her ear, tho for a moment he nearly used his wife’s name. Had that happened, Jaime was sure his sister would have cut his cock.

They both ended at the same time, Jaime did not have time to get out of his sister’s cunt and his seed dripped off her. Cersei breathed slowly and moved slightly away from his embrace. Alva would have begged him to hold her…

“I missed you” Jaime said, looking to embrace his sister. After being done, why was she suddenly not interested in being in his arms? She gave him a cold glare

“And yet you came back with a wife” Cersei’s voice was full of bitterness “I think you need to explain quite a bit to me, dear brother”

Gods be good, he would rather just fuck her again.

Chapter Text

Cersei had ordered for the rest of the Kingsguards to do their duties and protect Tommen. She did not spare any tears while doing such a request and made sure that Osney Kettleblack was to see that they heed her orders. All she needed was the White Tower to be alone for a moment…

While she hoped that the little bitch that Jaime had taken for a wife would suffer a fall, it was not a guarantee. Cersei knew it would take more than one try to get rid of her, but for now, she would give her no thought. Alva Nielsen did not deserve to occupy her mind, just as much as the girl did not deserve to have her brother for a husband.

It was easy to know where her brother would go. Their lord Father had made it clear that he was to be stripped away from his white cloak, and her good sister had been kind enough to leave a conversation that she doubted the girl could understand. Jaime would need to write about his dismissal in the White Book, and she doubted he’d be happy about that.

Ever since he was ten and seven, he had been in the same room. He had refused to ever bed her there, and Cersei had enough sense to know it was a place to be avoided. But she needed to see him and could not wait for much longer. All she could do was hope he’d be quick to return there.

And when Jaime did, Cersei had been ready to yell at him, asking him how he had dared to get himself a northern wife. Ask him why he’d leave her alone, having to see Myrcella leave, having to endure Joffrey’s death all on her own. She stood and walked to him, ready to tell him everything.

But Jaime put his arms around her before putting their lips together. He kissed her with much more passion than she’d ever remember. Cersei did not even care that he’d allowed that awful beard to hide his face and soon was kissing him back as well.

She did not even notice when their clothes were both gone, but also did not try to stop him. She had missed Jaime, being without him had made her feel incomplete. He was back, and Cersei admitted that his hair did look better at such a length…

They had never been together at the White Tower. It would be easy for any of the Kingsguards to hear them, for any to just open the door to the room and see their secret. Even her brother knew that he would not be quick enough to deal with such an issue.

Jaime kissed her lips. He kissed her neck. He kissed her breasts. And then Cersei felt as he kissed her already wet cunt…Her brother knew how to use his tongue, he knew very well how to use single part of his body, unlike the drunken brute she had been forced to call a husband.

Cersei only ever felt complete when she had her brother inside her. Osney Kettleblack, while he knew just had to please her in bed, did not resemble her brother….Lancel had been the best replacement she had found while he was away, and even if their cousin bore a slight resemblance to Jaime, he did not manage to complete her in the same way. The boy was inexperienced, to make matters worse, and had been a virgin the first time she bedded him. He always finished way too early….

Neither of them were Jaime. None of them were close to making her feel the same. Feeling his cock entering her once again was the only reminder she needed that they were meant to be together. No one else would have been able to make her scream just like he did.

Cersei had no doubt that her brother felt the same, and yet he had dared to bed a stupid little northern cunt. Does he know how much I worried, once I learned that he had been taken as a prisoner? How I raged upon learning that he had taken a wife, who was carrying his child? How had he dared to take another woman?

But she couldn’t yell at him, she could only yell because of him. Every thrust Jaime gave her only helped her to make her mind consider forgiving him for having dared to wed. And now that he had allowed his hair to grow, he looked even more like her…

Cersei couldn’t resist and kissed her twin’s neck. Jaime looked so gorgeous, and hearing his moans put a smile on her face. Only I can make you feel like this, brother. Don’t dare to forget it…

She felt his seed spill inside her. Part of Cersei would have wanted to remind him how foolish he had been, there was a reason as to why she’d taught Lancel to always finish in her stomach…but that moment, her brother’s seed couldn’t have been sweeter.

“Cersei…” she heard Jaime calling for her and smiled. He was only hers…but now he had brought a Lady Lannister with him.

She was not going to forget that, while Tyrion had killed their son, Jaime was on his way with children he’d sired on another woman. And so, she tried to move away from him.

“I missed you” Jaime said, still trying to hold her.

“And yet you came back with a wife” Cersei asked as calmly as she could “I think you need to explain quite a bit to me, dear brother.”

Jaime did not answer as fast as Cersei would have liked. He sighed and looked away “I was drunk the first time “

“Drunk? “That only made her angrier “are you really going to use alcohol as an excuse? “only Robert would dare to do such a thing

“Well, that and…” Jaime took a deep breath “I missed you…my wife, she looks like - “

“She does not resemble me” Cersei did not allow him to finish. Teats too small, blue eyes and the wrong tone of blonde hair, who she did not wear in the same manner. “I saw her already. That girl is nothing like me, except for what she was between her legs” the only part of her that would be worth anything.

“From behind, I could pretend she was “Jaime grinned and grabbed her arm as he pulled her against him “I know very well she was not you. Alva is a sweet thing, but- “

“Sweet?” She tried to free herself, but Jaime would not allow her to “if you missed me as much as you claim, you wouldn’t have tried to replace me with a foolish girl” and fool was too kind of a word to describe Alva Nielsen.

“I’d rather appreciate if you didn’t call my wife a fool “Jaime sighed “I was not trying to replace you. Alva had decided to visit me on her own in the room I was locked in…I was bored, sister. So much time alone was not good for me…”

“You could have used your hand “which no doubt had more brains than her good sister “I was alone all this time, and yet you chose to make sure your bed was not empty. Couldn’t you at least have the decency to stick to your vows?”

Jaime had taken them for her, and had broken them for a maid from a house no one could even name “had I not married her, my good father would have made the girl drink moon tea “ as the little bitch should have done if she was smart “she would have killed herself…”

That did not help his case “and why would you care if the girl did?”

“Because” you do not love her, dear brother. You only love me, so don’t try to make a fool out of yourself “it was my fault. I should not have fucked her, I should have tried to send her away. My place is next to you, right here…” Jaime kissed her neck, but Cersei was still not quite happy.

“Your new place is at Casterly Rock” Cersei reminded him “Did father not tell you? Lady Lannister said you were talking to him.”

“I don’t want it” Jaime was a fool. It should have been hers, but the gods had made her be born a woman. Had they made her a man, she would have what was rightfully hers “Cersei…the girl is half our age. She dreamt of knights and maids. She never even thought she would have to leave her home if she became my wife. I care for her, I care for the children she is carrying, but it is you who I love.”

She had no doubts about it, but that was not enough for Cersei. He had taken the bitch as a wife, when Jaime could have just let the girl’s maester handle the issue. So, what if she chose death after losing her bastards? It was not like her absence from the world would have any meaning.

“You have a strange way of showing it” his kisses did nothing to persuade Cersei. Her brother would need to earn her forgiveness “I was alone in here. Father wanted to wed me off, Jaime. I was alone without you. And you were acting like a fool…Could you not have tried to use the girl to set yourself free?” Alva Nielsen looked rather easy to manipulate, just a few sweet words from her brother could have been enough.

“Have her give me the keys, and then what? Carry her by sword all the way to the harbor? It was nearly a two-day ride if there was no snow” Jaime sighed and attempted to kiss her again “Is there anything I can do to earn your forgiveness, dear sister?”

“There is…” and she knew that no one would be able to carry it out better than Jaime.

“And what would it be?” Jaime had not given up on kissing her and gave one of her breasts a slight squeeze. Cersei smiled, the thoughts of her brother doing what she thought where just too sweet. She turned around and caressed his face, even if she hated the sensation of his beard.

She would leave Alva Nielsen alone for the moment. As much as she despised her very existence, there were two people who she hated even more. Sansa Stark had sadly been able to escape, however, but…” Go down to the Black Cellls…” her hand reached for his cock and gave him a soft stroke. Jaime moaned as she gently caressed the tip “Tyrion is there…bring me his head…”

Jaime looked at her, his eyes widened. He made Cersei take her hand off him “No”

No…How dare you? "He killed Joff, Jaime. He killed our son. He died in my arms, and I couldn’t do anything to save him."

"Tyrion would never do that” Are you really that dumb, brother? "Why would he kill Joff?"

"For a whore." She clutched his sword hand and held it tight in hers. "He told me he was going to do it. Joff knew. As he was dying, he pointed at his murderer. At our twisted little monster of a brother." She kissed Jaime's fingers. "You'll kill him for me, won't you? You'll avenge our son. You’ll prove me that you truly love me…” and not that little bitch you took for a wife.

Jaime pulled her hand away once again "He is still my brother." Because the gods had not been merciful. "I won’t do it."

“He killed Joffrey” Cersei reminded him, why wasn’t that enough reason for Jaime to kill the little monster they had for a brother “the gods themselves knew he did so.”

“I have my doubts, sister” that was enough for her. Cersei gathered her clothes and put them back on

“This was folly." Cersei said as she finished pulling her gown straight "With Father in the castle, I shouldn’t be losing my time with you.” But her brother was stubborn and grabbed her hand.

“You ask me to commit Kinslaying” Jaime’s tone irritated her, how couldn’t he understand “He is my little brother.”

“I ask you to avenge our son. I ask you prove that you do love me” She angrily reminded him Joffrey was your son. He was my son, just a boy. But you are too calm. You defend the little monster who took him from me. Men are supposed to go mad with grief when their children died. You are supposed to tear your hair out by the roots, to curse the gods and swear red vengeance. Why are you more worried about Tyrion than Joff?

“Cersei, I love you. I have always loved you” He insisted, still refusing to let her go “Marry me, Cersei. The Targaryens wed brother to sister, why shouldn't we do the same? Stand up in front of the realm and say it's me you want. We'll have our own wedding feast and make another son in place of Joffrey."

She really wished to slap Jaime with all his strength at that moment “No one could ever replace my boy “She made it clear “I want to be your wife, we belong to each other, but it can never be, Jaime. We are brother and sister…and you married that girl, don’t you remember?”

"The Targaryens could take more than one wife…”

"We are not Targaryens, are we?” and worst of all…” You wish me to be sister-bride with that lackwit northern bitch? “

To her surprise, Jaime finally let her go “Alva is a sweet girl who is too naive for her own good, but she is far from a lackwit and much less a bitch.Don’t ever call her like that again” And even more surprising, his voice did show anger in it…I will choke her with my own hands “I might not love her, but I do care for her. It is my fault she is here, and it’s me you should be angry at, not her.”

“I can be angry at the two of you” Fine, if you want me to go, I will go. “Go back with your wife, brother. My poor good sister might find it too distressing to be away from you if she just arrived here.”

“Cersei…” Jaime called for her, but she refused to look back as she reached for the door, not wishing to see her brother for the rest of the day.

“Do be kind and do me and the girl a favor: shave that ugly beard off your face” if you do, we’d look like an exact mirror now “I’m sure she hates it as much as I do” hopefully the bitch already fell and lost the creatures she’s carrying, but I doubt the gods will be so kind to me.

Chapter Text

Alva was looking through hers and Jaime’s belongings: everything they had packed had indeed arrived, which she was thankful for. Not that her husband had much to bring, seeing how he had gone north, but her heart warmed up of seeing he had the needle work she had gifted him.

It’s not my best work, I could barely keep myself awake while doing it…but Jaime brought it here. I’m glad he was not disappointed that this was all I could get for him.

She decided to keep looking at the new dresses, each more beautiful than the last one,  but was startled when three women arrived to her room. She was unsure if perhaps she should not have been looking through the dresses...

This is my room, but I don’t know the customs of the southrons. Maybe I should have waited before touching anything.

“Apologies, my lady” one of the women spoke. She was older than her husband, perhaps in her forties. The woman had brown hair that matched her eyes. She was small but had strong hands. “We did not mean to startle you “

“It’s an honor to meet you” the other was of an age closer to her husband’s, still older than Alva. She had black hair, her eyes were green and was almost her height.

“Lord Tywin assigned us to help you” the third was younger, but still older than Alva. She guessed she was around her late brother’s age. She had brown hair as well, but her eyes were blue, a head taller than her and thin.

I have three maids for myself? At home, the maids were there to help around the castle, not just one of us. Of course, she was now a Lannister. Her house was not rich after all, they only had around twelve maids or so and each oversaw parts of the castl. They could not spare any, unlike richer houses.

“I…it’s a pleasure to meet you” gods, should I ask for their names ? “What are your names ?” Her home did not have that many servants, so it was simple to know each of them.

“My name is Bethany, my lady “the older woman answered and bowed her head “ this are Alyce and Willow” Both the other women bowed hers as well.

“Lord Tywin brought those dresses for you, my lady”  Said Alyce “are they of your liking? I’m sure your lord good father could get you others that you might find more fitting, if they are not”

“These are all indeed for me?” Gods, she had been a fool to think she would be in trouble, but such luxury…

“Of course, my lady “said Willow

“All the belongings of you and your lord husband have been brought here “Bethany was perhaps the one in charge, being the eldest of the three.

“I give you my thanks “at least she hadn’t brought much, as going to the south meant plenty of her dresses could be too warm. But with winter approaching, she had made sure to at least pack some of her coats

“My lady, it wasn’t us “ Said Alyce “we were getting your room ready, and we do apologize for not having being here to receive you”

“We were called to finish getting our chambers ready as well “Willow explained “we were ordered to move to the ones next to this room “

“Why so?” Alva asked with curiosity.

The women all seemed confused by her question “why, to be available for every time you need us, my lady” answered Bethany “and for your lord husband as well “

It was strange. The servants at Northlight Keep did have their rooms, of course. Rooms that they shared with the rest of the maids as well, and the same happens with the guards. It was common in castles. They did attend their needs, but it was still strange for her to have them so close. Only rich houses could afford that type of accommodations…and of course, such was her case now.

“I appreciate it “Alva felt a bit tired and wanted to sit, Alyce grabbed her hand to help her

“Are you close to giving birth, my lady?” Asked Willow

“Oh, no” her good sister had asked the same question “I am carrying twins, according to my maester “and two children made her look even larger.

“Just like your husband and the Queen!” Alyce smiled “May you have two healthy and strong children”

“Thank you for your kind words “Alva smiled back to her maid.

“My lady” called Bethany “would you perhaps want a bath? It must have been a long trip “

It indeed had been, even if she had been gone for half of it. “I would appreciate it “

The bathtub was bigger than the ones in her home, not that it came as a surprise to her. Alva thanked that the water was not as hot as she was used, seeing King’s Landing was much warmer than the north.

Alyce and Willow helped her to get rid of her clothes as Bethany drew the water. She was used to be helped by some of her maids to get dressed and undressed so that was not much of a surprise.

“Do you need anything else, my lady?” Bethany asked her as she and Alyce helped her into the water

There was. She needed to know something…” What happened to my good brother’s Lady wife?” Alva asked “Lady Sansa Stark. She is my friend, and I expected to see her, but when I heard about King Joffrey’s death…” they served the castle, they would know.

The three women looked at each other. Gods, please don’t tell me that…

“She disappeared after the wedding ”Answered Alyce “Lord Tywin ordered for her maids to be taken into custody, and gold cloaks are looking for her but…”

I wonder if she was happy to see my nephew die, the poor girl…

“The girl has not been seen” said Willow “But you should not worry about that, my lady. You should rest” she insisted

Is she all right? Maybe someone helped her, she could be on her way North…Everyone there would give their lives to make sure she is well, wherever she is.

“Is there anything else you need, my lady? “asked Bethany

Please pray to the gods that she is safe. But can I tell them? Maybe not yet…

“That would be all” Alva replied. While she was not unused to be naked in front of her maids, she valued her privacy, unless of course, it was her husband who would join her.

“Please call us when you are ready to get out” Willow said and she and the rest bowed their heads before heading out.

The water was still warm, she enjoyed simply siting on the bathtub and relaxing. Her feet hurt much less while she was there, and it was as if her worrying would leave…just for a moment, unfortunately. As much as she liked her new maids, Alva missed Sara and the others that were north, many of who had been working for her family even before her birth or even her father’s and hoped they were all right. She missed maester William, the cook, the guards, Night, and most of all, she missed Alric…

He is just a boy…but stronger than me, I know it. Even if he tried to stop me from leaving, I know he will be all right. Jaime taught him well, made sure his sword fighting got better He will be taken care of, and our father will return soon enough to let him rest. I just hope father has a safe journey…

Alva had not thought of her lord father in a long time. She had gotten his hair, his eyes and his freckles. And, before their mother died, she had his hugs, his stories at night, his kisses at night that would tickle her because of his beard, his singing and sometimes rode the horse with him. After she died…she had his silent stares, an occasional word or two, and..not much else.

I can still remember how he used to hold me. Father was so strong that he could carry me and Alric. He could have carried Dravor, but my brother insisted that he was too old for that. He has not carried me or even hugged me ever since mother died.

How angry was he once word reached that I married Jaime? I know he was not pleased upon hearing the news, after losing my brother…Will he yell at Alric once he arrives home? I hope not, I hope he will at least be kind to my little brother…

But…will he let me visit my home again, once my children are born? Will he allow me inside? I doubt he will want for Jaime to come along, but just me and the grandchildren my husband sired on me? Will he dislike them as much as he seems to dislike me and Alric? She feared that it he would dislike them even more…

Alric still loves me…he didn’t want me to go, and I didn’t want to go. Could I perhaps get ravens from Northlight Keep? Or at least to White Harbor, so I can still write to him…and father, I suppose. Maybe they could come South instead, someday…

She felt a kick. Then another one, and another one…Her children had decided they wanted to move. Maybe they know I’m sad, or maybe they want their father…It’s also a new place for them, I wonder if they know we aren’t home anymore. And one of them might be the heir of Casterly Rock now, if Jaime doesn’t manage to make his lord father change his mind…She hoped her husband could do so, he loved his little brother so much…

It surprised her sometimes just how big her belly was. Back when her mother was pregnant with Alric, she did not remember seeing hers as big. It had been a long time ago, sure, but still, it wasn’t quite the same. And every other pregnant woman she had seen did not have one that big. Sometimes it was a surprise to herself how she even managed to walk on the first place, even if she did need help to move around. And to think her children were still a few months away from their birth…

Gods, just how much will it hurt? Mother’s screams the day Alric was born were perhaps the most horrific ones I have ever heard. I heard of women who die birthing their children, even if it’s just one…and I’m having two. She hoped that he husband would be next to her at that moment….

“My lady?” Bethany knocked the door “You have been in the water for a while, would you like to come out?”

Gods, just how long had she been there…” Yes, I would” Alva answered, and the older woman and Willow helped her get outside.

“We are preparing dinner for you and your lord husband “Bethany told her, as both took them to her room, but to her surprise…

“Where is my husband?” she asked, she supposed he would be there

“He is in the room’s dinning hall” Willow answered with a smile. A dinning hall, just for the two of us? I thought it would be only a desk in the room

Both her maids helped her to put on her new clothes. She was only going to dine with her husband that night, but she still wanted to look beautiful just for him. Alva chose a red dress with small golden lions boarded on the neckline, which looked more expensive than all the dresses she had brought.

Only the two were to eat, and yet, she couldn’t remember a time back at her home when she had seen so many foods, unless it was for a special occasion. There was creamy chestnut soup, crusty hot bread, and greens dressed in apples and pine nuts. And that seemed like the first course, as she spied honeyed ham, buttered carrots, and perhaps the biggest chicken she had ever seen, stuffed with mushrooms and oysters. Gods be good, oysters? Those we could never serve at home. Far too expensive to buy them as they would not be good to eat after the trip back from White Harbor.

But her husband was a more impressive sight than any of the dishes. He was not wearing his golden armor, but instead, he had a silver one on top of an intricate suit of white enameled scales. A lion brooch held together the white cape that Jaime wore on his shoulders, and he carried a sword on his scabbard. That is his Kingsguard armor.

“How rude of you, my lady wife” Jaime said as he carefully took her arm “to keep the Lord Commander waiting for your beautiful sight”

Chapter Text

Jaime had not taken the words his sister had uttered about his wife well, and he was not happy with her in the first place, seeing what she had dared to ask for her forgiveness. The girl was not the smartest, he knew, but to call her a lackwit was taking it too far for his liking. And a bitch…gods, he knew Cersei would be furious, she had the right to be so, but it was his fault, not his wife’s. The girl was sweet, and smarter than one could expect, if she really set her mind unto something. Not that it was for the best, seeing that’s how they’d ended up married to one another.

He’d let go of her hand, and defended his wife, as every man should. Not that it made things with Cersei better: she had stormed off furiously after getting her clothes on herself again. Jaime knew he couldn’t remain in his room for much more time and had to distract himself from the situation. So, as the Lord Commander, he had decided it would be fitting to go look at the men he had...

Jaime could only thank the gods once he was done, after showing the White Book to Loras Tyrell. All knew better than to ask about his marriage or question his position as the Lord Commander. The one he saw as most fit to replace him was, to his horror, the Knight of Flowers.  He prayed that the Stranger would be kind enough to take half of the men before his children were born, so he could replace them with more fitting options. For the while, he would have to suffer them…

He decided that being his and his wife’s first day in King’s Landing, he would not guard Tommen for the night. After the unfortunate mishap with Cersei, he wanted to see how Alva was doing. His sister had said they had already met, a fact that Jaime admitted worried him. Cersei wouldn’t dare to hurt the girl, he knew it, but her words could be harsh if she was angry.

He was surprised to see three maids in their room. Of course, he should have expected that his father would find servants for his new good daughter.

“Lord Commander “one of the women bowed her head.

“Where is my wife?” It was late, no doubt she was in the room. He would change out from his armor later, it was harder to do so without a squire, but he would manage. 

“We prepared a bath for Lady Alva “a woman near his wife’s age answered. Dinner had been prepared already, and knowing Alva…

“I think it would be best if you see how she is “she could drift too suddenly, he had seen it. Two of the women bowed their head and left. Jaime would go himself, but he would probably end delaying their dinner for a while if he did…Gods, just what am I thinking?

It did not help that his wife looked so beautiful with the dress she had chosen. Red was a color that suited the girl, tho he had mostly seen it on her cheeks after making her blush. The dress fit Alva perfectly, her beautiful figure showing more thanks to it. Her blonde hair looked brighter with the crimson of her clothes, and it certainly showed her teats more than the dresses that had been made for the northern cold.

“How rude of you, my lady wife” Jaime said as he carefully took her arm “to keep the Lord Commander waiting for your beautiful sight”

The girl’s face went as red as her dress. “I’m so sorry” Alva mumbled. Jaime kissed her cheek softly

“You look beautiful, so I suppose I can excuse you “he assured his wife, who smiled at him.

The food was more welcome after months in the north. Courtesy of his wife, he had been spared from the worst meals, but the flavors just did not compare. Of course, seeing hers was a minor house, he couldn’t complain that much. Except when their cook found a way to sneak beets into every dish he was given, that was.

The poor girl was hungry, seeing she was eating for three. “I didn’t know chickens could get so big “Alva admitted, and he couldn’t help but to laugh.

“They don’t, that is a swan “which couldn’t be found in the north

“Swans can be eaten?” His wife seemed surprised, but did enjoy the flavor.

“Yes, my lady” one of the maids answered before he could “we will tell the cook that you enjoy them “

“Next time, would you serve us apple cider?” Jaime recalled the girl liked it but hadn’t tried it cold yet. He wondered if she would prefer it to the hot version.

Alva had not managed to make it through the full dinner “we could have fed all of my household with this “she said, and he had to agree. The poor girl would probably not have done well with whatever welcome had originally been planned for them, had Joffrey not died.

“Maybe it’s better if we go to rest “Jaime wanted to discuss certain things with his wife, and would rather not do so with the maids present.

Two women cleaned the desk and a third went to help Alva change into her nightgowns. In his opinion, she might feel more comfortable sleeping naked as in her nameday, seeing the south was sure to be warmer than her home, but he needed to talk to her, not bed her…yet.

His wife was waiting for him as she sat in their bed, once her maid was gone. The nightgown sadly covered more than he would hope…

“Jaime, about your brother….” the girl held his hand, once he approached her “did you manage to change your lord father’s mind?”

He sighed “I’m afraid I did not “ it angered him, there were few times where he had felt more useless “but I won’t let anything happen to Tyrion”

“How so, my love?” His wife answered

“I’m going to free him” he spoke in almost a whisper, not wanting to risk for the maids to hear, even if they weren’t in the room “the day before his execution. But I need you to say I stayed with you here, if questions arise “

Involving his wife with what he planned was not smart, Jaime knew. Just as he knew how stubborn the girl could be, seeing how their affair had started. And he could use her help, at least to have her lie about his whereabouts after making some arrangements with the Spider.

Her soft blue eyes starred at him, and she reached to kiss him “you are truly a great knight “

Only because you don’t know what I have done. He is my brother, and I know he is not guilty, but I am. I have done something horrible to Tyrion and this is the least I can do “Not a word to anyone else, it is treason against the Iron Throne”

“I committed treason against my King” that was indeed true, the girl would do anything for him “ I don’t have a problem doing it again”

“Let’s just make sure this doesn’t become a habit “he sighed, there was also another matter…”my sister told me she saw you. What did you think of her?” he knew just what Cersei thought of his wife, but wanted to know just how it had gone.

His wife seemed to hesitate, which was not a good sign “she joined me to pray” the girl answered “ I think she is a beautiful woman”

“She prayed with you?” that amused him. Alva had gone to pray for Tyrion to be released

His wife nodded “I…she seemed to be angry. Your sister believes it was Tyrion who killed her son, who she prayed for with me...” The girl was not the best liar, and even if Cersei was usually good at hiding her anger, it seemed that it was not easy for her to do with the girl. He was thankful that at least she had been senseful enough not to harm his wife “grief does make a person get angrier...”

It appeared that it had not been the best first meeting between the two, not that the circumstances had been kind in the first place. The girl was right, he had to concede her that: Cersei was mourning for their son. To have Alva arrive right then, carrying his children…he should speak with her, try to make amends. Of course, that would have to wait until he was able to free Tyrion, as he doubted, she would react well.

“She helped me to walk to the godswoods. She was kind, even if she was not feeling well…” she sighed “I think I did not make the best impression on her, unfortunately “

Based on Cersei’s words, his wife was right “Cersei will grow to like you, don’t dwell much on it” or at least to dislike her less. He kissed her forehead, the poor thing might be a bit fearful “I admit the arrival could have been on better circumstances”

His little wife smiled at him, her smile as beautiful as ever, but it faded faster than he would have liked “there is something I would like to ask you…”

It did sound like she was upset about something, but seeing she had quite a few reasons for it…” what is it?”

His wife looked away for a moment, then sighed “My maids…they said Sansa disappeared” for her own sake, it would be better if stayed like that “maybe…did your Lord Father told you anything about her? Perhaps my maids just didn’t know…”

He had heard Loras Tyrrel theory about how Joffrey had been poisoned, and had come to the conclusion that the boy was right. Sansa Stark killed Joffrey, my dear wife. My brother's kept silent to protect her. He gets these fits of gallantry from time to time. The last one cost him a nose. This time it will mean his head. “No one knows where she is “or how she had gotten out in the first place

“I hope she is safe” Alva wouldn’t want to hear the truth, he had no doubts of it. The Starks had faithful vassals, her and her family among them. And she was fond of the girl, to make matters worse. “Gods, I was hoping to see her, to meet Tyrion as well, I know you love your little brother…”

“If we have luck, both of them will be safe soon” Jaime assured her. He felt his wife hug him, the girl seemed to be trying to comfort him. His idea of comfort was different, of course, but he did not mind hers.  He hesitated but returned the gesture and felt a kick from their children.

“I suppose they missed their father “she said softly, then her eyes widened “How come you are still in your Kingsguard armor?”

Right, he hadn’t explained the deal with his father yet “I will remain as the Lord Commander, at least until the children are born” he explained, putting his hand to feel their kicks. That one is surely a boy, and a strong one at that. No doubt he will care for his sister quite a lot…”For now, you are the first woman in history to be married to a Lord Commander”

“And I’m honored “ Alva laid her head against his chest, the armor seemingly not bothering, but it seemed that something else had caught her attention “I’m glad they gave you a new sword, my love”

Gods be good, I forgot to leave it. The lion-headed pummel was sure to make it stand out, with those bloody ruby eyes “It was wedding gift by my father “A Valyrian steel sword…I had always dreamt of having one “Nothing quite special, just a common longsword “

His wife tilted her head “My lord good father gave me very beautiful dresses, I thought you would get a finer one”

Fine doesn’t do it justice. The grey-black and red ripples through the steel are almost grey, like every pure valyrian sword “It can do it’s job, that’s all I need” but it was made with the Stark’s ancestral greatsword, and was used to behead Lord Stark . I doubt you can tell, but gods know I won’t risk you drifting away just like you did while on our sea journey.

Chapter Text

 Her lord good father had invited Alva and Jaime to dine with him the next night. She was thankful that her maids were there to help her choose her clothes, as her husband was busy with his duties. After months of being with Jaime most of the day, it felt strange to know he would need to be away from her….

“I would like to use the hair ornament “she requested to Bethany as Willow was finishing the last touches in her hair, who she requested to wear in a single braid as she was used to.

“The hairnet, my lady?” Asked Alyce as she looked through her jewelry

“I think it might be too formal for this “Bethany told her “a necklace will suffix, my lady”

Gods be good, my own maids know more about southron customs than I do.

The dress had also been chosen by Bethany, a beautiful golden myrish silk gown with red rubies to adorn it. It surprised her just how many jewelries could be used for just one dress. If I put all my jewelry together, it still would be only half of what this dress has.

She was able to use at least one of her family’s jewels, a necklace made of white pearls that had been a gift from her father back when she was born, too little to remember. It paled next to everything else that was hers now, specially next to her golden crown, but she was still fond of it.

Her maids helped her to walk to the tower of the Hand. There was apparently a dining hall in it, according to Willow, much to her surprise. Alva couldn’t help but to feel amazed about just how rich the Iron Throne truly was.

Jaime was waiting for her, once again in his Kingsguard armor. “I shouldn’t be missing my duties for a second night in a row “he sighed “specially after just coming back “

“I can dine alone with my good father “Alva offered. Her husband hesitated, and shook his head.

“I can endure it” he insisted “he would send after me if I didn’t go in any case.”

The Small Hall was, ironically, bigger than the hall of Northlight Keep. Alva wasn’t sure why she kept getting surprised at such facts. Lord Tywin Lannister was awaiting them already, of course. Her good father was as intimidating as the first time Alva had seen him.

“I expected that you would be courteous enough to change your armor, now that you are my heir once again“her good father scolded Jaime as her husband helped her to sit down. There were two guards at the entrance of the hall, much too surprise. They were only going to dine, why was there a need for them?

“Father, if I may remind you, my children aren’t born yet, and if the gods are generous, they will remain in their mother’s womb for some more months” Jaime replied. At least she would be with her husband, but was it fair that he would have to let go of his dream?

She wanted to feel happy that he was to stay with her, but not only did it meant he had to give up his position  as the Lord Commander, it also meant that her good brother and Sansa had been stripped of theirs. Alva knew that her husband would rather have his brother live than Casterly Rock, and she couldn’t blame him for that.

But just where is Tyrion going to, once Jaime frees him? Has my husband figured where to send him?

Once again, the dinner was huge, not something that would usually be served for only three people back in her home. A piglet, roasted with an apple in its mouth? She had only sever seen one in White Harbor. Long green peppers stuffed with cheese and onion. Now that was an oddity in the north.

“I’m glad to see the dresses where of your liking” her good father told her.

“They are indeed very beautiful “she smiled “all of them”

“Thank the seven you are more appreciative than your Lord Husband. My son doesn’t seem to think much of his new sword “she could hear the familiar tone of disapproval on Tywin Lannister’s voice, a tone often found in her own father’s “ Valyrian steel isn’t easy to find, and yet it didn’t seem that it was of his liking“

“Valyrian steel?” But Jaime said it was a common sword, why did he lie?

“My lady wife might not be too keen to know where the it came from“Jaime grabbed her hand

“Is she not six and ten? I recall you took your vows at that age “a fact her good father was not happy about

“She is, but sword making is something a bit too boring for women “that much was true, she truly did not care for them. Still, something about it…

Where did my good father find Valyrian Steel? No house with one would like to give up theirs, no matter how much gold it could be worth. Dravor told me that any house with one, no matter how poor, would first sell every single rich they had before giving up theirs. Unless it was not one, they sold…maybe one of the Riverland houses had theirs stolen…

Her good father thankfully did not say much more about the matter, and they were served a second dish, a quail drowned in butter. She had to concede that it was possibly the best thing she had ever tasted.

“Have you been able to see the rest of the Red Keep already, my lady?” gods, it just felt so strange…

“I have only seen the Godswood with her Grace” Alva’s good sister had made sure she remembered the way to address her.

“Jaime, how come you haven’t shown my good daughter the castle?” Tywin Lannister questioned her husband.

“We just arrived yesterday, father” Jaime didn’t seem precisely happy. Alva held his hand gently below the table “I have duties- “

“With your lady wife, the future Lady of Casterly Rock” the title sounded too big for her “you sired two children upon her, being the Lord Commander should not come before her.”

“I have been feeling tired, lord good father” it was not precisely a lie “And I’m worried about my lord father, who I hope is having a safe journey, and for my little brother who is in the North, so for now just praying for their wellbeing is all that I could think about” which would also not be entirely a lie. Alva just wanted to help her husband, as a wife would. She felt her good father’s eyes on her and prayed that the old gods would be kind.

“I’m glad to see you do take your duties to your house seriously, my lady. “she felt her spirit come once again to her body “I expect you hold the same devotion to my House as well”

“I will, lord good father” of course her children chose to start kicking at that moment. Did they like their grandsire?

“Quite strange that the Freys chose to spare my own good father, as thankful as I am” Jaime took a sip of his wine “I do wonder if they feared to kill the father of a Lannister bride.”

“They must certainly do. Lord Walder knew better than to risk the wrath of the Iron Throne once again by killing the father of the King’s Lady aunt “but how would they know who my father was?” The Faith just chose a Septa for your lady wife, she is so start being instructed tomorrow. You should pray to Seven for your lord Father as well, my lady. The castle has a sept, it should be easier for her and your maids to accompany you there.”

 She knew her lady grandmother prayed to the seven, but her father did not. In the North, asides from the Manderlys and the late Lady Catelyn, there were few followers of the new gods. But she decided not to voice her opinion.

“I do hope you told the Septa that my wife can continue praying to her gods, Father” Jaime spoke “it was the old gods who saw us married.”

“That you should do, she is your lady wife, not mine” her lord father said as he cut a piece of quail “or she should do so herself. A Lady of the Rock needs to command respect between her household, and that will include her Septa. But child, the wolves were not kind to the people in the Westerlands or to their septs, do remember that.”

Wolves? Only the Starks were wolves, the rest of us could only wish that honor. She thanked the gods when the dessert arrived, as it did help well enough as a distraction. Strangely, she saw one of the guards leave the room after her lord good father gave the command.

Stewed plums were served, that she at least was familiar with. A dish she enjoyed quite a lot, of course. Of course, her lord good father continued on discussing the plans he had for her, her husband and even the unborn children she carried.

“For now, the maids should be enough company, tho it might do you good to speak to the Tyrells as well” another Great House, one she was even less familiar with “on the Rock, it will be for the best to find ladies-in-waiting. The wives of our bannermen will surely be glad to serve us, but a daughter or two around your age will also be of help.”

“Ladies-in-waiting?” she did recall that the Targaryen Queens had their own, but. “They are not a custom in the North, lord good father. What is their purpose?”

“They will help you get more familiar with your role as the Lady of the Rock” Jaime explained softly “Keep you company if I’m gone, supervise your maids, helping with duties around the Rock…”

“My son is right” her lord good father concluded “Given how drastically your position has risen, you will need as much guidance as possible. Marrying into our House is a privilege many Houses seek, my lady, and you have been fortunate. I am grateful that my son had the sense to seek a wife, but you still have duties to perform.”

“I understand, lord good father” she put a hand on her belly, her children had insisted on kicking once again.

“I will send letters soon enough” gods, Western women…she wasn’t sure if she’d get along with them “Lord Walder Frey will send one of his granddaughters as well, he promised.”

I’d rather not…” A Frey, lord good father? “she couldn’t hide the disappointment in her voice.  

“I share Alva’s opinion, father” Jaime didn’t either, thankfully “They might have sparred her father, but they’re a treacherous bunch. I would rather not have my wife or my children near one of them.”

“They proved their loyalty to the Iron Throne, and if I might remind you, my lady, they made sure to care for your lord Father.” After hurting him in the first place, and breaking guest right.

“They betrayed the Young Wolf during a wedding feast, father. One that the grandsire of my children was attending. Had they wanted to prove their loyalty, why not do so by abandoning his cause?” she was glad that her husband agreed with her.

The servants refilled their wine cups, but she didn’t want to touch hers.

“My lord father attended as a guest, he should have never been harmed…” so did King Robb, so did his lady mother, so did everyone else “Lord good father, when I married Jaime, our guests…I know many weren’t happy, but neither him nor I were unharmed”

“Their actions might have seen harsh, child, but they ended a rebellion against the Iron Throne. One that unfortunately your lord father chose to take part of” Lord Tywin spoke “Did you know Robb Stark wanted to trade you for Lady Sansa? Your father had signed the letter as well, giving his approval. I would have made sure you were treated well, of course, but being sent without your husband, while expecting his children, far in a place you did not know…It would have been cruel, don’t you think so?”

Her throat tightened, she hadn’t been told. Gods, father…I would have had to leave Alric sooner…but Sansa would have been safe…or dead, if she had attended her lord uncle’s wedding…Words had long left her, and she decided not to answer her lord good father’s question.

“It would have, but my good brother wouldn’t have allowed for it” Jaime, however, was not done “Their actions were those of cowards, father. I will be the Lord of Casterly Rock, as you kindly keep reminding me, and I won’t have any Frey living in the Rock, save for aunt Genna and her family.”

“A boy lord wouldn’t have dared to go against Stark’s words” and she unfortunately knew her good father was right “While I’m glad you have finally accepted your role as my heir, I do have to kindly remind you that I still live.”

Before either she or Jaime could say something else, the guard that had left returned. He hadn’t done so alone: behind him, there was a girl. She was skinny and hollow-eyed, wrapped in a heavy grey cloak, just like the dress beneath it, and trimmed with white satin. She looked northern…

But what truly caught Alva’s attention, and made her stand up, despite whatever protest Jaime managed to utter, was the clasp that pinned the cloak to her breasts: it was wrought in the shape of a wolf's head, with slitted opal eyes. She had long, brown hair. She had such a pretty face…Yet she couldn’t quite put together who it was.

This can’t be Sansa. Sansa has red auburn red. She has beautiful blue eyes, just like Lady Catelyn did. She has fine high cheekbones as well. This girl…

Brown hair…Brown eyes…Skinny…she might be Alric and Sansa’s age….

The girl inclined her head “I’m glad to see you once again, Lady Lannister.”

She felt Jaime’s hand trying to pull her, but Alva, to her own surprise, ignored him “I…Do I know you?” something about her was familiar, she kept starring at the wolf pin. A direwolf…. It’s grey, and it looks like it’s racing. It’s tongue it’s out…I could recognize this sigil anywhere…

She bit her lips. "You may not recall, my lady, as I was littler the last time, I saw you. . . my family and I travelled to your castle many times, and you visited Winterfell as well." She lowered her big brown eyes and mumbled, "I'm Arya Stark."

Arya was the most Stark looking of Lord Eddard’s children, save for Jon Snow, the handsome bastard boy he had sired during King Robert's Rebellion. Alva had been more fond of Sansa, and was the child she was more acquainted with in the family. Arya was…she is a wild girl. She would rather go play with my brothers and hers than join me and Sansa to do needlework, or drink tea. I never talked much with her, but Alric and Dravor were fond of her. She was eight or nine the last time we saw her, this girl…she is older…and I saw her, many times. I knew her eyes, they were not brown….

They were grey…but….

Alva hugged the girl tightly “Arya…” tears were falling from her eyes, soaking the younger girl’s clothes. Maybe it was unladylike, but she did not care. I was wrong, they were brown. They were brown…. THEY WERE BROWN….” You are alive…gods…. the gods truly are good…”

Because otherwise, Sansa would be the last Stark. The little girl who was too wild for her taste would be dead. Arya was nice, despite all of it. She had to be Arya. She had to be Lord Eddard’s little girl.

Sansa had a friend that she could remember. Her name…she was not sure, but she was the Steward’s daughter, a girl from House Poole. She had talked with the girl, when she would go to Winterfell, and she was just like Sansa…but she didn’t think much of her. But she probably stayed behind in Winterfell, why would she come south? She is at the Dreadfort, no doubt…Why would a steward’s daughter be sparred, if they killed every single member of Lord Eddard’s household?

She did not want to let go of Arya, but her good father tapped her shoulder lightly “My lady, little Arya Stark is here to join us for a bit. We have to keep her hiding, until it’s safe for her to return North.”

“I’m sorry…” she mumbled and tried to clean her eyes. Jaime made sure Arya sat next to her, but she caught her glaring at her lord father, then at the Stark girl “The North…everyone will rejoice once you go back. King Robb…”

“My brother was not a King” gods I’m dumb, Arya can’t risk saying such things here “but it feels my heart with joy to go back to my home. I’m to wed Lord Bolton’s heir, Ramsay. He is a Snow, but His Grace will make him a Bolton. They say he's very brave. I am so happy.”

Alva smiled, her lips trembling. She had heard the rumors, of course. So many awful things about Ramsay snow, but…” He…he avenged them…he avenged little Bran and Rickon… he allowed the survivors of Winterfell into his own castle. I…I wish you two a happy marriage, I have no doubts that he will be a kind husband…” she tried to calm down as best as she could.

Her children kept kicking, with way more strength that she’d ever felt

“Maybe we should go back to our room…” Jaime tried to convince her, but again to her surprise, Alva refused.

“Lord husband, please, let me stay…” she heard him sigh. Arya was different from what she could recall. Less fierce, and was acting like a proper lady, even wearing such fine clothes, not a single scratch to be seen on her legs…Her time in King’s Landing has changed her quite a lot. She is eleven, yet she has even flowered already…

Her good father seemed pleased, and Alva had to admit that lord Tywin was kinder than she expected.

Chapter Text

Cersei had to be thankful that her awful little brother had only one more day left to breath. She would be more thankful, however, if her good sister had indeed fallen down the stairs as she intended, but fate had decided not to be as kind.

The little cunt had started the classes with her septa, and she saw them heading to the castle’s sept, alongside the three servants who his father had gotten “Your Grace” the girl bowed her head as they passed each other, so did the other women. The biggest of them helped the girl walk.

“How come my brother isn’t by your side?” She knew Jaime would do his duties mostly in the day, as Osney had informed Cersei about this. While claiming to want to continue his duties as the Lord Commander, it was clear he tried to spend time with her good sister at night.

“The Lord Commander said it would be better if Lady Lannister practices her prayers by herself “it was the septa who spoke

“I would prefer it if my good sister could answer herself “the girl could barely look at her

“My lord husband is training “the dumb little thing managed to say “in my keep…”

“He was a prisoner “but his name meant he had to be treated well, or otherwise face the fury of House Lannister “and prisoners shouldn’t get to use swords “

“They shouldn’t…” the girl had enough brains to agree “my apologies, your Grace, but I must get going ”

Her father had told her every lesson he intended for the stupid little bitch. People in the Westerlands wouldn’t be kin to accept a northern as their lady, not after the war had seen wolves devastate their lands. A Septa would have to teach her the Faith, at least to have her appear more Southron. Besides that, she was so low born that certain duties might be unknown to her, such as how to hold court for their vassals, instead of just for the peasants living in their domains.

But her lord father hadn’t cared, for the only thing worth of the girl was the cunt between her legs and the children she carried, which had given him the excuse to get Jaime off the Kingsguard.

I will take care of her, eventually…for the moment, she needed to speak with her brother. Cersei had missed him, more than he could even guess, and needed to at least try to make amends after their fight, even if it meant she had to pretend to regret for a second for the words she used against the bitch. Still, she wouldn’t take back anything about Tyrion, for having taken Joffrey away from her.

She headed to her room to send her maid away to fetch Osney, hoping to use him to in turn seek for Jaime, but her brother had come all by himself. And, to her luck, he had finally shaved his face.

“Why, lord Commander, should I feel honored about your visit?” That didn’t mean Cersei was precisely happy yet.

“That depends, your grace…” Jaime took her hand and kissed it “could you spare a moment to speak?”

She was tempted to say no, if only to see how her brother would react “I do”

He sighed “you have all the right to be angry at me, I know it. I shouldn’t have bedded my wife…but it was my fault.”

The little bitch is still at fault for daring to exist “my words about her where unkind, but I didn’t take you for one to bed noble maidens half your age, the news were certainly a surprise “ I would have believed it from Robert

“It was a surprise for me as well “it was easier to let Jaime explain himself, now that he’d shaved his face

“But you did help to take credit off Stannis Baratheon’s words “ Cersei had to admit it, as much as it pained her “and I guess my good sister does deserve half the credit for that as well “Jaime smiled, and she admitted he’d missed him…the queen gently caressed her brother’s face

“I could only think of you when I was with her. Every single time…” I can’t quite blame you for that, dear brother…Jaime softly kissed her lips

Cersei was more than happy to return the gesture, slowly enjoying her brother’s skills… all while her good sister learned how to pray down in the Sept. And yet, it pained her to admit that Jaime’s actions had helped to turn away so many doubts about their children…

If only he could tell that to that northern cunt. I wonder if she’d cry and decided to throw herself off the tallest tower she could find. Or maybe I could tell her myself…

Jaime broke the kiss “I was able to find a way to stay as in the Kingsguard, at least until the babes are born…but who’s to say I can’t stay a bit more? My wife and the children won’t be able to travel for a bit after birth”

If they survive it in the first place, or until that point “that gives us a few more months, at best “

“You could always come to the Rock with us “Jaime spoke, and Cersei nearly rolled her eyes. Us? Gods, she felt like slapping him…

“Don’t say such foolish things. The children you fathered have helped to shun any accusations, going back would only help revive them” of course, her brother had never been the brightest.

“You could say that you need some time in your place of birth…” always with such wild ideas

“No” it pained her, of course. She would have him in King’s Landing, she needed him there…

“Your good sister needs help as a Lady, she doesn’t know the customs…it’s unusual, but you could help her” the thought disgusts her

“Father already planned to get her ladies in waiting, didn’t he tell you?” Instead of getting rid of the girl the second she birthed him new grandchildren “besides, it will do sweet Alva no good if you don’t let her learn how to be a lady” even their grandfather’s mistress had learned it, and that one was even more low born than the girl

It angered her when that did make Jaime seem to reconsider things…for just a moment “I just want you by my side…”

“You know it’s not possible, be wiser “a task she knew was too hard for Jaime at times “we can always find a way to be with each other…but I won’t leave King’s Landing, Tommen needs me.

“Then let’s take Tommen as well and leave the Kingdom to father. I could claim that I’m taking Tommen as a squire, and father can rule in his stead, just as he has been doing in any case “it was impossible to reason with Jaime, if he had his mind set in something

“And just how would that look? Jaime, is too much of a risk” the further away he was from Tommen, the better. If they stayed too close, someone was bound to notice…but yet, she didn’t want to have to be away from either of them. It was better to ask him about other matters “how did your dinner with father go?”

He sighed. The northern girl probably couldn’t fool my good sister… “what happened to the real Arya Stark?”

“No one knows” the dancing teacher that Lord Stark had hired for the girl was somehow able to defeat five of her guards, with one even dying to a simple wooden sword. Only Meryn Trant had been able to defeat the braavosi, and even then, he failed a task as simple as capturing a nine-year-old girl “She vanished the day that her father was arrested, and no one has seen her again.”

And she left for King’s Landing. The girl was no longer alive, and if she was, she was not a maiden anymore that was for sure. If she was lucky, her death was quick. I hope she died screaming

“Buried in some unmarked grave in Flea Bottom in all likelihood” he mumbled “I never paid more attention to the girl, but my good brother was around the age of that girl… “

 “Father and I had hoped that Alva wouldn’t realize-“

A frown showed in her brother’s face “she did not. A skinny northern girl, more or less the same age with more or less the same coloring. You dressed her up in white and grey, gave her a silver wolf to pin her cloak, and my wife ended in tears at her sight.”

“Let he have the comfort to think that the girl lives, then “I want to break the news to her,. Maybe once she lies in the bed during childbirth…but that would mean allowing her to live to that point…it was not an easy decision to make “and it makes things better for us and for her people. The northerns will rejoice to have the girl back”

“Where did father find a northern girl to pass as her? “that just showed how much time had Jaime spend away from King’s Landing “what will happen when northerns question her about Winterfell? “

“She is the steward’s daughter” the man’s head had joined the rest of Lord Stark’s household. Baelish had taken the girl into the service of one of his brothels, and back to one she would have gone if her good sister hadn’t been fooled…If I felt generous “she was born there, and lived there her whole life on it as well, just like the real Arya. If you ask me, we are doing a favor to the bastard. Did you ever see the wolf girl?” an ugly and unruly little thing.

“She is to marry Bolton’s son…They betrayed the Young Wolf, didn’t they?” it was an easy conclusion to find, she knew. “I didn’t think much of her…but it seems that every northern house does. My wife would tell me that Ned Stark and his family would often visit their vassals, even those like her family….”

“What a waste of his time” she already knew the man had been a fool, that just confirmed it even further

“The love northerns held for him. It’s really something I can’t say I saw with father” gods, I should slap some sense back into him

“Father was already respected enough for such tricks to be unnecessary “and feared. No vassal would have dared to do the same as lord Bolton, even for the reward of getting named Lord Paramount.

“I saw how my wife reacted when news of the Stark boys’ deaths reached “Jaime spoke “trick or not, they were loved.”

“And that is why we are sending the girl” she would have a good marriage and get off the brothel, that should be more than enough “do you truly wish to tell her the truth? “That I will do, I hope

“Father above help me” but he finally relented “I don’t. I tried to get her to sit back down, to just to leave the Hand’s tower last night, but she insisted on sitting next to the girl. You would have thought it was her own sister who had come back to life…”

Or her own brother. I ought to find who killed the boy and reward him handsomely. “She has already served our house, Father will be pleased” and for all it was worth, she had helped the steward’s daughter.

Jaime kissed her cheek “I should go back to train, my only opponent for months was a boy lord” sending someone for that stupid child could be a good idea, seeing he had his sister marry my brother. But that she would need to plan later, as in quite all honesty, she doubted any man outside the North could even know where the Nielsen’s castle was. Not that it mattered, Jaime had come back to speak, to seek her forgiveness…

Shortly after her brother left, Osney Kettleback arrived.

“My grace, how may I serve you?” the knight asked. Cersei smiled, she had an idea or two…

Chapter Text

Talking to the spider had been one thing but going through with the plan itself…Jaime wished he could have arrived earlier. He wished it would have been him to face Gregor Clegane. He wished that, back when he was three and twenty, he had refused his father’s order.Even better, he wished he could have just kept his mouth shut. So many things he wished at the moment…

Including his little wife. The girl has stayed behind, she’d tell anyone who asked that Jaime had been with her all night…not that anyone would suspect him, but it was better to do so just in case. It was strange when she stared at the eunuch for a moment, as if she had seen something familiar about the man, but he had other things in his mind to care about it. She should ask her just what caught her attention.

There was a passage right into their room. It shouldn’t surprise him any more at all, but he wished to ask their father to give them another one first thing in the morning. Anything would do, anywhere but that room.

He had told Alva to just go to sleep and not bother to impatiently wait for him. The girl had tried to argue that she would be too worried for it, but her pregnancy surely tired her, as he found her fast asleep once he returned…

Jaime wouldn’t have bothered her, he would have just gotten next to her and hold her softly, had circumstances been kinder. I should have kept my damn mouth shut and just free Tyrion without saying anything else, he didn’t need to know…

His little wife slept without any blankets, as King’s Landing had proved to be too hot for her taste. She might as well simply sleep naked, now that would be more than fine by me…

He leaned to kiss between her breasts. Thankfully, at her insistence, Alva had been given some that were more revealing, as the usual ones made the nights too uncomfortable. Such a cute little pair of freckled tits that were all his to devour…

He heard her giggle a bit in her dreams, it seemed that he hadn’t been able to truly wake her. Then, dear wife, let me make sure you are wide awake…

Jaime moved down and lifted her clothes, making sure his face was in front of the source of so many of his troubles: her much sweeter little cunt. A kiss was enough to have her wake up moaning shortly after.

“J-Jaime?” She managed to ask, but he didn’t answer, to busy getting his tongue inside her. He could feel her squirming, moaning slowly as his mouth devoured her wet cunt. He would feel how she’d shake, yell, and how close she was to finishing…

But he wanted her. He wanted her at that very moment. Wanted to get his cock inside her, make her yell, fuck her all night…

He had not done well by choosing clothes he couldn’t remove that easily….taking them off meant tearing them to pieces, but he did not care…and, if the room had more lighting, he was sure he would have had his wife’s help.

“My love…” he heard the girl, who was still panting. Her cunt was probably aching for him after his teasing “weren’t you…. your brother…”

“He is fine, don’t worry…” he now hates me more than anyone else on the fucking seven realms for sure” I thought we should make my lie more believable…would you help me ?”

It was to much of a hassle to undo her clothes, so he simply tore them apart with ease, his father could simply find another one. He wanted her, wished to fuck her, have Alva beg for more and more…

But to his surprise, the girl covered herself with the blankets   “Jaime…what’s wrong?” he had heard her tone sound like it, back when she worried about the boy lord who had them marry…

“Nothing “ he lied. Everything was wrong. He wanted to help his brother, save him, atone for what he had done, and in the end…Tyrion had told him some pretty harsh words. He wanted to forget. He wanted to just hold the girl in his arms, because right now, she was possibly the only person left who cared for him.

All because of a mistake he had done so many years ago. He should have known what his father would do to fix the situation. He should have known that leaving Tyrion alone with the girl was not a wise idea. He should….

He should have been fucking his wife by now. Jaime just wanted to forget, not think about it….

“You don’t look well…” out of all my lies, why are you seeing through this one. She sat herself and caressed his face. While Alva had seemed upset after he shaved his beard, he admitted he liked to feel her soft hands in his face “Jaime, what’s wrong?”

“Nothing! “He answered once again, perhaps a bit too rough, seeing she suddenly moved her hand away. He sighed and gently held her hand, trying for his wife to be less scared. what am I thinking…all he wanted was to avoid doing so “sorry…I’m just upset, that’s all”

He knew that had been a stupid lie. She wouldn’t stop bugging until he answered.

“You can tell me what’s wrong, my love” Alva said gently, her soft blue eyes staring at him….

He couldn’t even begin naming just everything that had gone wrong. It had gone well: the spider’s instructions worked, he hadn’t had to kill anyone to get down to free Tyrion, the keys had worked just fine. His brother had wanted to know about the girl who had made him act unwise, the reason he was now married. They had talked, they had laughed, and then…. Jaime told him about Tysha. About his lies. About…everything.

And Tyrion had decided to kindly do the same. Gods, Tyrion…. he hadn’t know just what went down on the knight Stannis Baratheon attacked King’s Landing, but his brother had been short of a nose. The time in the Black cells had also done him no favors, and…

Jaime should have just kept his fucking mouth shut. He should have taken that secret to the grave. A secret he was sure could make the girl so dreamily starring at him finally hate him, or at least understand he was not a good person…

But he didn’t want to tell a word to her. He wanted her. He wanted her so much at that moment, more so than he’d done before, even more than when her mind had been cruel enough for her to shut down.

“I should have saved him from the moment we arrived” and Jaime knew he should have, so that wasn’t a lie. He understood it from the moment he saw his brother’s state “I should have been here to duel for him in front of the gods themselves, slain the Mountain…” Gregor Clegane wouldn’t have dared to attack him, he would have won

The worst part, the reason he wanted her, had to be because his brother was angry enough to reveal a thing or two about Cersei…

“You poor stupid blind fool. Must I spell every little thing out for you? Very well. You weren’t the only one who felt a bit too lonely: Cersei is a lying whore, she's been fucking Lancel and Osmund Kettleblack and probably Moon Boy for all I know. And I am the monster they all say I am. Yes, I killed your vile son." Tyrion had snarled, in a voice thick with malice. The way the dwarf had grinned beneath the stub of his nose as the torchlight licked his face was stuck on his mind.

Cersei had been enraged at him. Worse of all, she had begged for him to do unspeakable things just to be forgiven. He hadn’t been thinking clearly the first time he laid with Alva, but it was to remember her. Jaime could have forgiven her if it had been only Lancel, but being with  Kettleblack and the fool, daring to call his wife such names…

“Jaime…” his little wife called for him, the few lights in their room allowing him to see her naked body, her nightgown barely a few lines of clothes... Jaime hoped she would lean to kiss him, allow him to have her beautiful body…

But she just hugged him. “Your brother knows you love him, he knows you would have protected him if we had arrived here earlier” Alva laid her little blonde hair against his chest. He could recall that’s what she would need when seeking comfort, but he…He wanted to fuck her, that’s all he needed. She kissed his cheek “He knows you are a good man…”

Gods, this little wife of mine…Barely older than Tyrion and Tysha had been. Father said the girl had married Tyrion for the gold, and the Nielsens are a house barely above landed knights…would Father had said the same of Alva, had I wed her back when I was his heir, if we were both the same age? Would he had said all she wanted was the gold, no different from a whore? Would he have wanted to give me a sharp lesson? Would he have thought I would thank him?

Would he have forced me to watch a barrack full of guards rape her? Would he have forced me to be next? He would have killed every single man, cut their cocks off before they could even touch her, he would have done what…

What Tyrion couldn’t have done. And no doubt he wanted to. But he couldn’t, he would have needed help. But who would help a boy who’s own brother had betrayed him like that? Who had lied to his face? Who would have helped him? Jaime knew very well it should have been him…

He was not a true knight. Had stopped being one long ago. But the girl hugging him, the girl carrying his children, the only ones he would be ever able to call his own, still believed so. Still believed he was the golden knight who she fell in love with back when her mother was alive. She still thought he was a good person.

And still loved him, even if he had only sought to replace Cersei, who like Tyrion, he doubted still even loved him anymore…

Alva had only ever been with him, even if she had been engaged. She had only ever laid in his bed. She had only ever been claimed by him…

He cupped her face gently, and before she could ask again if he was alright, locked their lips together.

 All those months together had seen his wife’s kisses get bolder and bolder. It was her who pulled her little tongue inside his mouth this time, reaching to softly stroke his cock as she did. And by the gods, was her hand soft…if he had been her age, Jaime had no doubt he would have finished just by now, but he desired much more….

As soon as he made sure his wife was comfortable, laying on her back and legs well spread for him, Jaime lost no time as he entered the sweet girl, who yelled softly as he did.

He had only seen her face as they fucked once, but he could barely even remember it…and he had to admit it was a beautiful sight. Her mouth kept opening as she gasped with his thrusts, her back slightly arching and her hair falling to the sides….

Jaime kissed her again, the girl putting her arms around his neck to pull him closer. He was careful as he could, knowing his wife’s pregnancy might make her uncomfortable, but she was too eager and kept begging for him.

And Jaime was more than happy to oblige. Her beautiful blue eyes looked at him as she caressed his face, as he kept getting beautiful gasps out of her little mouth. He could forget about everything and everyone with her….

“Alva…” he whispered on her ear. It hadn’t been Cersei who he wanted that night: it had been her. It had been her beautiful blue eyes, her cute freckled face, her pale blonde hair, her perky freckled tits…

They were both done soon after , Jaime pulling her for a hug. The moon was kind enough to finally let him properly see her freckled face. She was tired, it was clear, but smiled at him. Whatever questions she had one her little mind had long vanished and so had every thought that troubled him. She had reached for a kiss, which soon turned into much more. He spend much more time with her than he could remember….

Until morning arrived, and a frantic guard arrived to their room. His Lord Father had been found dead…

Chapter Text

Her good father had been found dead, and it was her good brother who had committed the crime. An ache formed in her heart: it perhaps hadn’t been wise to help her husband free Tyrion, but otherwise he would have died…

As the lord Commander, Jaime had been called to investigate how had the man escape from his cell. They both knew, the man who had helped her husband knew as well…And, to her surprise, Alva knew she had seen his face before but couldn’t quite picture where. She could only recall the kind woman who had helped her with the stairs after her arrival…which did not make any sense, unless they were brother and sister, but she knew asking wasn’t the best option.

The traditions held by the followers of the Seven stated that the body had to remain in the Sept for seven days. Her poor husband…the guilt had made him stay, in all white, guarding his lord father’s body in a vigil.

She doubted that he had slept during at all the time. He had when they were together, the same night her good father was killed…Alva wanted to go comfort him, tell him he hadn’t been at fault, but found herself unable to: her lord husband had left to protect the king and she hadn’t been able to see him since. And to make matters worse, the smell of Lord Tywin’s corpse would make her need to leave every time she had decided to go.

Her septa and maids would go with her in the mornings, as the smallfolk were allowed in the afternoon, and the evenings were too crowded. She caught glimpses of her good sister and Queen Margaery, but had yet to be able to speak to the later. The one she wished the most to speak to, however, was with Jaime, but her Septa insisted against bothering her husband, and the fact the smell bothered her unfortunately made it all to easy to obey her.

“Jaime can’t stay there for seven days and seven nights “ she had insisted, maybe if she could talk with the queen…

“The lord Commander has decided he will do so, let him be “Alva felt the Septa didn’t like her much. While the woman, who was old but far from frail, would be courteous and never out right say anything out of tone, she would go out of her way to speak against oath breakers and how whores could tempt men all too easily…

It wouldn’t bother her if the woman would just insult her, but it pained the girl to see she dared to think ill of her husband. He had saved the city, and they had married for love. It was a marriage before her gods, and her lord good father had made sure they could remain together…she wished she could tell her, but if her husband hadn’t said such things to anyone else, it wasn’t her place.

“Why must lord Tywin’s body remain there for a week?” Alva asked to her maids after the third day, it made no sense to her, and she would rather not ask the septa. Followers of the old gods would be buried as soon as possible, instead of having to remain there for so long. Even if his bones were to travel to the Rock, delaying it just didn’t sit right with her

“the Seven teach it that way, my lady “ said Bethany as she brushed heir hair “one day is prayed for each of the aspects, first for the Father, then the mother, The Warrior, the Smith, the Maiden, the Crone and last one is saved for the Stranger “

She hadn’t noticed much. Alva would repeat what her Septa would say, light a candle…but her mind would drift and seek for Jaime. Her tears during the services had been a mix: sometimes for her husband, other times for both her brothers, and on occasions, the guilt she felt for her lord good father’s passing.

“Lord Tywin then shall be escorted to Casterly Rock “continued Alyce, who was setting her bed clothes. One of her pairs had been ruined a few days before…she blushed at the thought

“What do followers of the old gods do with their dead?” Asked Willow curiously

“We bury them and then pray to the Heart Tree “tho burying mostly meant putting their bones in the family crypts, as the cold was too hard to dig.

The Ironborn gave their deceased sea burials. That had been done with mother, after she passed away. She wouldn’t be with her older brother…

Alva had to spend those nights alone. Her children would kick her quite a lot. She couldn’t sleep well, thoughts would come and go too easily to her head…

“I’m sorry, your lord father is busy” he must feel guilty, just like I do…lord good father died because Jaime set his little brother free, I know his secret….but I don’t blame Jaime. He loves his brother, he couldn’t have expected that he would do something like that…and poor Tyrion, all that time in the cells must not have been kind to him…”he will be back soon, my little lions…”

Two little lions…their grandsire had been happy to know they were going to be born. The man was intimidating like none other she had ever met, and a ruthless enemy to the northerns, but Alva felt an ache for his fate. He was kind enough to keep poor Arya safe there…

But why marry her to lord Bolton’s son? Sansa is the oldest…and why to that man ?

She tried her best to sleep, but just like the first days, it was strange to do so without Jaime at her side. Alva not only missed him: she was worried for his sake. Her poor husband looked so tired, all those days in the Sept…

She wished to comfort him, to assure him that he had not been at fault for his lord father’s death. To remind him that he was a true knight, a hero, the father of her children and her love. For the lack of his warmth during the nights, Alva had decided to hold onto her beautiful crown once again…

Jaime had really picked a really pretty one, and she could still feel the roses that had once adorned it. She held it on top of her belly

“Your lord father gave me this when I was a little girl “ she mumbled to her children “I wonder what you two are…two little girls, or perhaps two little boys? “

She felt their kicks, Alva had learned to tell when it would be both instead of just one of her children. She smiled softly

“Your lord father thinks you two will be a boy and a girl, just like him and your lady aunt “who I need to seek, the poor woman… “but I disagree…just don’t tell them, all right my little ones?”

More kicks were given as an answer

“I would like to rest…” she mumbled, but it wasn’t their children keeping her awake, it was her mind. She needed to try, the morning would need her to go once again to the Sept and she needed to be awake…

.

A letter had arrived the next day, awaiting her before departing to the Sept. An urgent matter had said the old Grand Maester. She pitied the man: the death of lord Tywin had seemed to cause him great sorrow. After all, he had known the man for many years…

Alva had forgotten the last time a raven had brought her good news. Her fear was that something had happened to Alric. She hesitated to open the letter, unsure if she even wanted to know the answer to her doubts: as awful as it sounded, it was a relief when it was news about her lord father, and she felt as if a huge weight had lifted off her chest.

“A storm caught the ship, unfortunately “ said the old man as she herself read the letter. It was strange, but no tears would leave her eyes, even as she learnt how he had been lost to the sea “ I’m so sorry, my Lady, but they couldn’t find his body”

She thanked the man for bringing the letter, unsure of what else to say. Her father had died at the sea, and yet…Alva couldn’t bring herself to cry, just like she had been crying for Jaime’s father. Her father wouldn’t meet her children either, but still her face remained dry.

I doubt he was angry, or fearful in any case. Mother’s body is also in the sea after all, she wished to go with her god…

Her three maids gave her their condolences, asking if there was anything they could do for her at such a time

“Please help me to get ready” she answered “we have to attend the morning service”

She worried about Alric. She worried that he would cry upon hearing the news….but Alva couldn’t recall the last time her father had bothered to hug him in the first place. And for her, that had been very long ago….

Her Septa learned about her lord father’s faith from her servants, and the woman kindly held her arms and suggested they prayed for his sake’s as well.

“But for now, it’s best you don’t speak much of it” the woman said “for it’s Lord Tywin who must be grieved first”

Alva knew the woman was right. She wanted to go to the great sept, but her Septa suggested they went to the royal sept instead. Alva was the lady of Casterly Rock now, she could refuse her and insist they went, but for some reason she felt far too tired to protest.

Father’s death was an accident, that much I know. The sea can be treacherous, mother always said so. Yet she still insisted that’s where she wanted to rest, when she knew her strength was leaving her…

While certain things about The Faith were too strange for her liking, there was a certain warmth to being able to lit candles for those who had recently passed. Her Septa encouraged her to do so, as they were praying and practicing for the funeral that would soon take place.

If she trusted the woman more, she would have lit more than just four candles. All of them were for the Stranger, that led the newly deceased to the other world “Dravor Nielsen” she mumbled, lighting the first one in honor of her brother. She hoped that him and his parents had reunited, wherever their souls had gone. And that he finds in his heart the strength for forgive me “Joffrey Baratheon” it took a bit of courage to say her late nephew’s name, but she knew it had to be done. She hadn’t met the boy, but she didn’t think well of him. And yet…he died far too young, only three and ten…I can just hope he did not suffer “Tywin Lannister” she knew her good father for less than a moon at best, the man was greatly mourned across King’s Landing, but she still wanted to lit a candle for him. “Halvard Nielsen” she hadn’t expected to lit one for her father so soon, but life had once again decided to surprise her in such an unexpected way.

Truth be told, Alva did wish to go pray at the Godswood, even if it lacked a Weirdwood tree. That’s were her gods were. The same gods that saw her marry Jaime, the same gods that her brother and father prayed too. She had never been devoted to the Drowned God, but it had both her parents, perhaps she should say her prays to him…

But people in the Westernlands have been tormented by the Squids for generations. I’m learning to pray to the new gods as they aren’t fond of mine either, no doubt they will be even more unhappy if I was to pray for him.

She didn’t sign the hymns for the Seven, as she did not know them yet. Her Septa said she would teach her that on another occasion. For now, she had to prepare for her good father’s funeral….

It was strange how beautiful the clothes she had for a dire occasion like that were. She didn’t want to think much of it.

“I believe you should wear this, my lady” Alyce said as she brought her hair ornament.

Chapter Text

He had insisted on taking his wife to the godswood by himself. The girl hadn’t had an easy time going to the funeral, due to her state, but she had still managed to hold herself better than Tommen had. Jaime himself had to chase the boy down after he ran from the smell of his grandsire’s corpse.  

Cersei had not been pleased, of course. Even less so as Jaime had told he would think about accepting being the hand to their son now. Part of him wanted to say yes, of course, but after what had happened to his father, guilt was running deep inside him…

It would keep me here, next to Cersei. I can still be the lord of Casterly Rock and remain in King’s Landing. My lady wife is the one who worries me…

He could keep her in King’s Landing, she had adapted well to it thankfully. Alva’s lessons on the Faith of for Seven were doing well enough, the Septa had said, and her maids took good care of her. Yet he still wondered how good of an idea it was.

She would be happier in the Rock, aunt Genna could be able to put some sense into her and with uncle Kevan as a Castellan, the girl wouldn’t have a hard time being the Lady of the Rock. He would just need to send her away, and soon, before, it was harder for her to travel.

Jaime was sitting next to her as she prayed to her old gods. He held her small, soft hand with care….and he knew it wouldn’t be possible to have her part without him, as he would miss his wife.

Much less after the news one of her maids has torn him, once they’d made it back from his lord father’s funeral: Jaime’s good father had also died.

“I didn’t want to tell you yet, my love “her face had a few tears, but she insisted they had been for his lord father. He had been such a fool to get her involved in that mess -.  He dismissed the women to hold his wife, who insisted she was more worried about him…

While his father insisted, she would pray to their gods, the girl was still allowed to attend her own in private. And Jaime knew well enough she wanted to go there.

She looks fine, almost unbothered, Jaime had noted. But what if she suddenly goes silent again, just like back in the ship? The women will panic, surely, so I would rather stand here with her in such a case. It would be no problem, seeing how long I was there for my father…

“Jaime…” she called for him, once it seemed the girl was done praying. He felt her other hand on his face. And to think she had complained when I shaved “my love, are you alright ?”

The question did take him unaware. Jaime was the one worried. His little wife was now down to just her youngest brother and knew what had killed her good father. He expected her to be in a much worse state…

“I am” he assured her. The girl was not one to tell truth apart with much easiness, he hoped to trick her…

“It wasn’t your fault, my love…” she mumbled. He would rather hush her, remind his wife that they weren’t in her home anymore. They were in King’s Landing, a place where the wrong words would be too dangerous, if the wrong person heard them.

But he hated himself for not only thinking he deserved to hear such words, needing to hear them. The fact that she knew…

“It was as if I had pulled the string of that crossbow myself “Jaime spoked bitterly. Had I just kept my mouth shut. Had I just helped Tyrion get out, then went back to you…

And his actions had killed more than just his father. Two of the gaolers had been put to the sword on Cersei’s orders. The men had drunk dosed wine to go and sleep, yet his sweet sister had ordered to have them killed.

She’s been fucking Lancel, and Osmund Kettleblack and Moon Boy for all I know…

And Cersei dared to be angry at him? Lancel had a small resemblance to Jaime, that much he knew. He could understand her, as much as it angered him, seeing the position he was currently in. 

“You were only trying to save your brother” the girl spoke softly, still looking at him with her beautiful blue eyes “you couldn’t have known what he would have done “

I didn’t know…just like I didn’t know father was going to have his wife raped. Just like I didn’t know there would be no mercy for Rhaegar’s family. There is so much I didn’t know, it seems

“I knew there were passages, that’s how I was able to free him in the first place” but Tyrion didn’t want to see him, not after finding the truth. “I’m as guilty as Tyrion” and as the eunuch. Varys had as much fault as him and his brother. He should have known that it had been but too easy to have him help, even if Jaime threatened the man for his aid. That he also hadn’t told his sweet wife, she believed that the eunuch had helped from the goodness of his heart. And if she knew he wanted to kill the spider…

To his misfortune, the master of whisperers had not returned to his own chambers, nor had a search of the Red Keep turned him up. It might be that the eunuch had taken ship with Tyrion, rather than remain to answer awkward questions. If so, the two of them were well out to sea by now, sharing a flagon of Arbor gold in the cabin of a galley.

His wife was a stubborn little thing, one who still would insist he hadn’t been guilty.

“My love…” has she noticed I have never called her like that? That I have never even told her that I love her? Or does she just tells herself that I have ? “You might not believe me, but truly, you weren’t at fault… All those weeks in the cell couldn’t have been kind to your brother Tyrion, his mind was not well…”

He wanted to tell her just why Tyrion had made the decision to become a kin slayer. See if she still loved him after that. Even worse, he claimed he had also killed Joffrey…but that part he didn’t believe it. He just wanted to make Jaime mad…

_and perhaps he was also lying about Cersei. She was alone, sure, but why would she seek company with any of them? Now that he could think clearly, it made little sense .

“Weren’t we here to pray for my lord father and yours?” He wanted to talk about any other matter. Gods, does she even miss hers?

“I worry about you as well, my lord husband…” she reached to kiss his cheek. Her lips were so soft and warm”and my lord father…if I’m truly honest, I don’t think he minded death that much “ she sighed.

Jaime was unsure if he should press the matter, but he at least had gotten her to change the topic, and he would rather keep her that way “why do you think so? “ if anything, having the boy lord be now the one to rule their household seemed like an unwise move

But I do have to say that my good brother will probably do a better job than mine, seeing how diligent he was as the acting lord. Being the Lord of Casterly Rock does sound too boring…

His wife looked away for a moment, starring at the heart tree “my father…he loved mother so much”she looked back at him with a sad smile “when she was alive, he was such a kind father, always smiling, holding me and my brothers…” he could remember her telling him, but it was better to have her mind get distracted for just a bit

“I dont know when did they meet, but I do know that father was bethrothed to another House before he laid eyes on my mother. The boy I was to married was from it as well…” May he rot in the seven hells, if he ever dared to look at my little wife “my grandsire had already gone to the wall and father was the Lord. He said it was love at first sight…just like my love for you”

Maybe my lord good father didn’t know how alike he was to his daughter. Wonder where he was, the day she snuck to meet me. I must have seen him, but my memory eludes the sight of him and my good mother.

“Mother…her health wasn’t the same after I was born, and Alric’s birth didn’t help either, that’s what our old Maester would say.” And then she died, he knew…

“We buried her at the sea, like the followers of the Drowned God would do.” But he felt there was still more..” Father…when we would go to White Harbor, he would stare at the sea. It’s where mother rested, after all. I wonder if…”

“You think your father threw himself?” Jaime asked.

The girl nodded “I might have not known him that well, but the love for my mother…He would have done anything to be with her again “That troubled him, much than he would like to admit: his little wife was half his age, and the gods knew she wasn’t so different from her Lord Father. If he died an old man, would she choose to join him as well?”I…I think he is happy, wherever he is, if he is with mother and Dravor…”

No doubt his good father had ill feelings for Jaime, right until his death. He killed his eldest son and fucked his daughter…but he had trained the boy lord, at least that had to be of some usefulness.

“Do you think your Lord Father is happy to be with your mother, my love?” the girl asked softly, her eyes away starring at the leaves of the trees in the forest.

“He would only smile back when she was alive” Jaime had been young, merely a boy who hadn’t even started to be a squire in those days. A boy who would at times dress in his sister’s clothes for a day as a way to play pranks on others. A boy who had tried to play an innocent game with his sister, and who’s mother had been horrified after she found out…

Had his mother lived, would he and Cersei not have been able to love each other? Would mother had made sure they could never be near each other again? Would she have stopped Cersei from searching to him the night she convinced Jaime to become a Kingsguard, just so he could be with her?

That would also meant that he wouldn’t have married the girl lovingly starring at him. The girl who was carrying his children…

But…Tyrion wouldn’t have had to suffer from his father’s anger, or their sister’s. His brother had only been a baby, what fault did he have over the Stranger deciding to take their mother? Jaime wanted to believe that he had at least been good to him, as he truly loved Tyrion….

“Jaime, may I ask you something?” the girl softly spoke.

That is already a question, my little wife “What troubles you?”

“Why did you never tell anyone?” Alva said shyly. Gods be good, please don’t tell me its about…”You saved this entire city by killing the Mad King…but you kept it for yourself…”

And I told you. Gods, what wine and being bored will do to a man…

“Does it matter? “but his lady wife wouldn’t want to heart that the noble Lord of Winterfell would not have wanted to hear his feeble explanations…Such an honorable man. He only had to look at Jaime to judge him guilty. “My good brother complained that you told him about it…”

“Alric didn’t believe me” the girl sighed. Of course he didn’t, who would? Even a boy of three of ten had already decided it was a lie.

“Please never tell that to anyone else, Alva” Jaime told her. And for her sake, he wouldn’t tell her that there was still wildfire under the city…

She starred at him with her soft blue eyes, but sighed “Very well…”she mumbled. “I hope poor Arya took the news of your Lord Father’s passing well. The poor girl has been through so much already…”

Gods be good, he had almost forgotten. Jaime wondered if his wife had tricked herself into seeing the Stark girl: he had never paid much attention to Arya Stark, but it seemed to him that this girl was older. The real girl was buried in some unmarked grave in Flea Bottom in all likelihood. With her brothers dead, and both parents, who would dare name this one a fraud? And then Cersei had told her that it was the steward’s daughter…

Yet his little wife had been full of tears as she hugged the girl. It was almost as if she had been told that the brother Jaime killed in the battle was alive once again. If she found the girl was an imposter…

But Alva didn’t need to know that. He would just need to keep her away from the girl for the time being.

Chapter Text

Her brother hadn’t accepted to be Hand to their son, at least not fully. Cersei wanted to yell at him, but knew better than to do so right in the Sept. She just left him to stand guard.

It was worse when Tommen decided to run, only for her brother to have to comfort him. Joffrey would have never dared to embarrass her in such a way. But the worst part was that Jaime immediately left with the whore he had for a wife and had been a bit too much with her as of lately. He was still a Kingsguard, she ought to remind him.

Father’s death also meant that she would have to postpone her plans of kill her good sister. Unfortunately, if the bitch was to die, it would seem that House Lannister was cursed, and those rumors would only make matters worse.

So, Cersei had to wait. She had to endure it for the moment. But still, she needed to talk with her brother: the Tyrells were pestering about Tommen and Margaery’s wedding. So, she decided to invite her good sister for tea, just when her brother was watching over Tommen.

“What is my lady aunt’s name?” Tommen asked. Her son didn’t know, but Joffrey had, and he had the sense to call her for what she was: a whore.

“You just have to address her as lady Lannister “because that was all that mattered about the girl: that she would bear children. She had no worth beyond it. She was like her uncle Kevan’s wife, at best “don’t dare to embarrass me.”

She would rather have Tommen closely, before the Tyrells talked about the marriage nonsense with her son. Cersei did allow him to choose some desserts, as to at least make sure he would behave.

Cersei sent her own ladies away, claiming she would only like to entertain her good sister by herself.

“Uncle ser, your lady wife is accompanying us!” She heard Tommen speak with Jaime.

“She is? “Jaime asked “Then make sure to have lemon cakes, your cousins make her crave for them”

Wretched little bastards…that could be useful. Her good sister’s looks weren’t that far from her families, as much as it pained Cersei to admit it. It could be justified as the things taking after their mother.

Such a stupid girl…if it wasn’t for father’s passing, I would have send to have her killed.

Strangely, Cersei could have sworn that she saw her use the head piece that Tyrion had gotten for her in father’s funeral. It couldn’t be, of course. It was her imagining things.

“What do you thinks the babes will be, uncle ?” She heard her son ask once again. Cersei was making sure her servants were preparing the tea…

It is moon tea I should be serving her, what a shame that she didn’t arrive here sooner…

Cersei wished to have someone to question about how effective it could be. The man that had tended her father’s body could be of use, but she needed to be careful. As if the moment, she wasn’t sure if she could trust him.

But just how much would I need to make her bleed out ? A shame I don’t know…

Then again, it could be seen as a bad omen if it where to happen at the moment. Followers of the seven were all too easy to fool.

“A boy and a girl” Jaime’s answer caught her attention. Of course her brother would expect the whore to be carrying children who he could dream of marrying, just like he dreamed of marrying her. Every piece of gold from the Rock would go into paying for their wedding, not that they’d live enough for it that was.

“Like you and mother ?” Her son asked. At least he was entertained, and away from the Tyrells. He would just need to behave for the afternoon.

Her good sister arrived, accompanied by her maids. The girl didn’t have ladies-in-waiting as of yet, and hopefully never would either. Cersei pitied any women who was chosen to accompany the little idiot

“Good sister, I’m glad to see you” Cersei smiled, she would need to act polite towards the stupid thing as for now.

“Your grace, your majesty thank you for inviting me” the girl bowed as best as she could, but her eyes caught Jaime “lord husband, I didn’t know you would be here “

Her smile made Cersei want to punch her right on her face.

“Right now, I am the lord commander, Lady Lannister “ her brother spoke, not even touching the girl, but his good sister’s smile didn’t go away.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, your majesty “the stupid bitch told her son. They hadn’t done so properly as of yet.

“It is nice to meet you as well, Lady Aunt “her son smiled. Cersei wanted to pull his ear, but he was doing what he was supposed to, unfortunately.

They sat to have tea, her son on her side and her good sister in front of them, with Jaime still standing to guard Tommen. The girl would occasionally look at him, and her brother would smile. Her face would turn too red for Cersei’s liking.

Jaime only has eyes for me, stupid bitch. Don’t flatter yourself too much, he’s not starring at you, he is guarding me and his son.

“What a shame that your arrival to King’s Landing has been like this “Cersei spoke, catching the girl’s attention. It was a bad omen, for sure. Just like her entire existence.

That made little Alva pay attention once again “I…it has been…” she couldn’t find the right words, not that there were, of course.

“Circumstances weren’t kind…” her brother answered “they still aren’t”

Tommen was busy drinking his tea. There had been some applecakes for him too, as he was fond of them, and the boy thankfully had not caused any trouble as of yet.

 “Hopefully, it’s just a matter of time before the Seven get justice for Father and Joffrey” by having Tyrion meet a deserved fate. The girl just nodded. Too weak willed to be the lady of the Rock…

Both it and Jaime should be mine, this little cunt isn’t fit to rule. How dare my brother even suggest she bears a resemblance to me?

“Lady aunt, Ser Uncle thinks you are having a boy and a girl” Tommen spoke. Her son had been curious, but mostly for the children “do you think so too?”

“Oh, well, your lord uncle has been thinking it ever since the maester said it would be twins…” the girl answered

“Tommen asked about your opinion, good sister “ Cersei couldn’t believe that the girl didn’t even have one of her own…or perhaps she could, she wasn’t precisely bright in the first place.

“Your Grace…”she heard Jaime. Gods be good, is he really going to bother me now?

“But…I do think our children might be of the same sex” her good sister had answered “two girls… Or maybe two boys”

“Can’t it be known before they’re born?” Tommen asked. If we rip them out and leave her to bleed, we might.

“No, but the smallfolk have some superstitions about it” the girl answered.

“Have you thought about any names?” why was her son so interested? It didn’t seat well with Cersei.

“Some…Jaime suggested Joanna for a girl “Cersei glared at her brother. He had known better than suggesting names, back when it was her who was expecting, but she was not pleased to hear it. But he was paying attention to their son “and Gerion for a boy” His favorite uncle of ours…The man was quite a fool, of course, and sired a bastard as well.

“My lady grandmother was also named Joanna” Tommen smiled

“my mother is the same as your uncle’s” of course the name would be the same. Joffrey wouldn’t have allowed it. Cersei didn’t want to, either, but unfortunately, her brother was the one who could pick the name for the children “don’t you have other names? If you think it could be two of each”

“I…don’t, your Grace” the girl admitted “Jaime and I have only discussed those two”

“It’s going to be a boy and a girl” her brother sounded too sure of it “so I don’t quite think there is a need for it”

“Why do you think that, uncle Ser?” Tommen looked at his father “Maybe Lady Aunt is right, and it’s two boys! You can’t name a boy Joanna”

“Then we’d have look for another name” Jaime admitted “maybe you have some suggestions, your majesty?”

Tommen seemed to be thinking, but to her dismay, shook his head

“You couldn’t think of your own brother’s name?” Cersei couldn’t care less about how the children were named, but her own son not to suggest Joffrey’s…” or your grandsire’s? “She caught Tommen’s ear.

“Your Grace, please let Tommen go…” her good sister tried to stand, but Jaime grabbed Cersei’s arm slightly.

“Cersei, neither me or my lady wife could either” or that was true was well, but that didn’t do much to calm her. She let go of Tommen’s ear.

“Which one should we use for another boy, your Grace?” the girl asked. Her face looked pale.

Good, learn to fear me, you cunt.

“My son’s life was cut too short” you prayed for him, didn’t you? Then do show that you appreciate him “I think naming a one of his cousins after him would be kind….”

“Gerion and Joffrey make for nice names, your Grace” her good sister was quick to speak “If we have two boys…”

“I think it would be better suited in the case it’s one boy and one girl” she was giving her good sister and Jaime the chance of using it.

“If my lord husband approves…” Of course, she needed Jaime to do everything for her. Her breathing air was wasting it.

“Do you, lord Commander?” Cersei asked.

Jaime looked at Cersei, his eyes didn’t dare to look at his wife. He was our son. You should honor him too, even if it’s by naming your mistake after him.

“I approve” her brother at least was not that big of a fool “Joanna and Joffrey do have a nice ring to it.”

“If we have a boy and a girl…” that was her good sister, who winced a bit in pain “sorry, your Grace, the children are kicking…”

“I don’t remember it being so painful “Cersei couldn’t believe how weak her good sister was, even carrying her brother’s children was too much for her. It’s unlikely she will even survive the childbed in the first place.

“My wife is carrying two “Jaime of course had to justify her.

“I didn’t know babies could kick “Tommen softly spoke. He was the youngest after all, her sweet Joffrey had been curious about his siblings when she was carrying them. So excited to meet them…

“They do, sometimes with more strength than I can handle…” his good sister admitted “do you want to feel them, your Majesty?”

Tommen looked at his mother. Maybe he would be disgusted, maybe…” will they hurt me too, mama?” his face looked scared, which irritated her.

“How can you be afraid of unborn babes?” Cersei scolded him “Of course they can’t.”

“It’s alright if you don’t want to do it, your majesty” the girl was too quick to tell him, but Tommen did listen this time and shyly put a hand on the whore’s belly.

His eyes went wide “My cousins are kicking!” almost a lovely sight, Cersei had to admit.

The children are your siblings, not your cousins.

To her dismay, Jaime moved next to Tommen, kneeling next to their son and put his hand next to his “They will sometimes move if they hear my voice or their mother’s.”

“With Jaime’s mostly “the whore said “they love their lord father.”

Cersei wanted to throw tea to the girl’s face. But she tried to keep her composure

“Good sister…would you like to touch my belly as well?” Alva asked shyly.

I lost my son, and she dares to flaunt my brother’s mistakes to my face ? What she wanted was to hit her stupid face

“Maybe it’s not the right time…”But Jaime hadn’t moved his hand away, unlike their son. The boy seemed curious about the children

“Don’t decide for me now, brother “Cersei stood from her seat “my son’s namesake might be born from you, hopefully”

It would be improper to decline to feel my nephews. I felt the little monster’s kicks when he was in mother’s womb after all..

One of the children kicked “The lion’s blood will surely make them strong, right, brother?” Cersei asked

“They’re always moving, those two” her brother had never touched while she carried their children. He insisted, of course, but Cersei had known better than to allow it.

“Twin births aren’t easy….” Cersei mumbled “Hopefully, you will live through it” and with that, her good sister’s smile left.

.

Cersei had Tommen leave with her uncle, as her son still had to perform king duties. She insisted that Jaime stayed, which didn’t take much convincing.

Her brother sat in the middle of the two. Cersei wouldn’t have dared to stay alone with Jaime, less so at the time…at least her good sister could be useful.

“Tommen’s wedding is approaching...” Cersei sighed. It shouldn’t happen, even if Jaime had insisted otherwise.

“I’m glad you took my advice, dear sister” Jaime had seem it fit that she was forced to endure sharing a supper with Mace Tyrrel and his wife, while he was elsewhere with that bitch “it’s the best for him, he needs the Tyrell’s on his side”

“But he is just a boy…” gods be good, that stupid bitch does have some sense in her at least “can’t it wait until he is older? It’s too soon after his grandsire’s and brother’s death…”

“I’m glad to see your Lady wife does share my concerns” Cersei now wished the girl had been by his side in the sept. But it was strange: she could have sworn the girl was using the headpiece that Tyrion had commissioned for her…“Mace Tyrrell won’t leave until after the wedding, he can’t even seem to understand that such tragedies befell our family.”

“Tommen might be just a boy, but he is the King as well” Jaime sighed. He grabbed his wife’s hand… “you are nearly a child yourself, Alva. Cersei speaks as a concerned mother…but you should know marrying will be for his sake. It can always be set aside if needed, it will be years before Tommen is old enough to consummate the marriage. “

Her brother glanced at Cersei, she wanted to slap him across the face “you put your seed inside poor Alva, brother. She had no other option but to marry you, because you were a fool”

“I am to blame as well, good sister” the girl answered. Of course you are “Jaime…I had flowered already, his Majesty is only nine…”

“You should listen to your dear wife, brother” but it was already done, much to her dismay. Her son would soon wed his brother’s widow.

Chapter Text

King Tommen’s wedding was approaching. Alva still felt he was just a boy, just like her good sister did, but she knew that Jaime was unfortunately right. She just hoped that he was happy.

Such a sweet boy…it’s a shame that he’s a bastard… but Alva wouldn’t say it out loud. Lord Stark wouldn’t have lied about it, everyone in the north knew as much.

Alva hadn’t formally been able to meet much of the court or her husband’s family, at least not yet. Circumstances had been too unkind for it, but the wedding would be a good opportunity for it, according to her maids.

“Everyone in the court will attend it, even after the tragic events that befell it”

Her septa had her practice in the royal sept for the most part. Alva wondered if she should order her to just stop, but it was not like she had much to do. Just lying in her bed did sound tempting…

Bethany insisted it would be good, for when her children, once born, were named by being given seven oils that a Septon would put on their head

I wonder if they’ll like the names we have chosen well, her good sister had insisted one boy should be named Joffrey, if they had two boys. If they had a boy and a girl, the boy would go by such a name….

Jaime had wanted to honor his (now their) nephew in such a way, but she had doubts. None that she could dare to express out loud.

Her good sister had not seemed particularly happy while touching Alva’s belly. but can I truly blame her? She lost her son and her father, Queen Cersei is in grief…and now her little son is getting married, gods have been unkind to her

She had won it…as nice as the Queen had been to her, her good sister had acted foolishly. But who was the real father of her children?

“My lady” she heard the Septa “try not to drift off “

Again, she had done it. That habit didn’t go away easily it seemed.

Trying to recall all the hymns wasn’t precisely an easy task, especially if she could so easily get distracted. The old gods didn’t require so many hymns to themselves, one only had to go and pray for them…. But all the aspects of the Seven had a different one, and she kept forgetting some of the songs or confusing them. Her grandmother might have believed in them, but such a tradition wasn’t passed to the rest of the family.

Alva would find it easier to pray to the Drowned God, if truth was told, as her mother had done it. Of course she wouldn’t…

The only one she had been able to fully pray to, due to the unfortunate circumstances, was the Stranger.

She preferred the gods wood, but the royal Sept had its benefits. Namely, the cats seemed to prefer it as well. The pretty ones she had taken a liking too would be near it from time to time, Alva did lament that she couldn’t lean to play with them.

“They might make you trip, my lady” Alyce insisted after she did shoo them away, every time the little ones tried to approach. She preferred those cats to the ugly, big, black furred one with a missing ear that would often hiss at her. That one her maids didn’t dare to try to shoo away

“It has been here before I even came to work at the Red Keep, and it might as well remain here after the Stranger comes for all of us” Willow joked, earning a scold from Bethany and laughs from both of them.

Her maids would also join her to pray, while she sat on the bench, but only Willow was there now, as Bethany and Alyce were busy getting her clothes ready for the King’s wedding. It still was strange to see just what a big selection of dress she had…

“My lady…” this time, it was Willow who called for her, she had drifted again. She liked having her around, the maid was around her age and Alva saw it easier to speak with her.

“Sorry” gods, I’m the lady of the Rock now, I should really learn how to behave myself…How come I can pray to the Stranger with much more ease than I can pray to every other god?

Fragrant candles burnt inside the sept, the incense at times made it hard for her to focus, even if it was a nice scent. The Crystals turned sunlight into rainbows, which gave it a nice appearance. Most of the times, Alva, her septa and her maids were the only worshippers, for she needed the practice. In White Harbor there had been a sept, but she had never stepped inside it. Now she wondered if it was as beautiful as this one. She hadn’t paid that much attention to it before…

Alva had thought they were all different gods, back when she was a little girl. After all, they were called The Seven. It was also weird to think of a religion which only had a god, for the Lord of the Seven hells was a demon, unlike the Storm God, who was also evil but well, a god…

Each of the seven had a statue on the sept.

The Father was a bearded man, his face stern and strong. Fitting, he looks just like my father. He was the one who judged people but also was a wise person. He protected his children…Not so much like my father I guess, but Dravor did in his place at least.

The marriage altar was between him and the Mother. She had made an offering the first she was there, for it was custom to do so after getting pregnant. But it was my gods who blessed me with our children. And they saw us married as well. I do wonder why do the Seven recognize our marriage, just like my septa says…but I’m rather grateful for it, in any case. Her face was that of a woman near the age her Mother had been when she died, her face did remind Alva of her… She felt a kick from her children, and she wondered if she would remind them of the statue

There was a man holding a sword: The Warrior. Jaime said it was to him who knights prayed too, for courage in their battle, as well as his favor during wars. The Warrior’s Son…I think it was Maegor who fought them. Her husband said it had been his god ever since he learnt to hold a sword. Jaime is a better sword than him, I’m sure. I think my brothers would also be fond of this aspect…

The Warrior wasn’t the only one of the Seven to hold a weapon: there was a man with a short beard who held a hammer on his hands. The Smith…he makes swords, and my Septa said that the Seven-Pointed Star has a story about how he helped the first Andal King.

There was a beautiful young woman next to the Warrior, her face had an innocent look to it. She had her own day, but the Septa said Alva wouldn’t be able to attend the sept during it. Of course I can’t, she is the Maiden after all, and I am no longer one…but why did she say I should ask her for forgiveness?

An old woman, quite ugly in her opinion, was holding a lamb. She is wise, maybe I should pray to her as well…

And finally, the Stranger. The Stranger, who was the first one she had prayed too…his face couldn’t be seen. The stranger represented death and the unknown and led the dead to the other world. Alva had not questioned it before, but…

“Is the stranger a man or a woman?” she asked. She was sure that The Stranger was a he, but with the face covered, she wasn’t sure.

Her septa didn’t look quite happy, and Willow was about to answer…

“He is neither male nor female “someone else answered. It was a man’s voice…

A boy’s voice was more appropriate, Alva found after turning around. She had seen his face before. He had beautiful green eyes, and a small moustache over his lips, but he was grey-faced, gaunt, with hollow cheeks, and hair as white and brittle as chalk... He wore slashed red velvet with black silk undersleeves, and a gilded scabbard hanging from his swordbelt.

Red and gold…One of Jaime’s cousins, no doubt.

“That is right, my lord” the Septa sounded relieved that the boy knew the answer. He seemed to have been lighting a candle to the Mother. Lord?

“I apologize, learning about the Seven has not been easy” but who was the boy? She was unsure if she should ask for his name

“It might take time, but if the Seven will guide your heart, Lady Alva” the boy assured her. He sat by her side “My name is Lancel, my lady. I am your lord husband’s cousin”

She had guessed right “It is a pleasure to meet you, cousin” the girl smiled “I hope so…are you here to pray as well?”

He nodded but looked rather miserable. She wondered what had happened to him…” The seven have given me strength, they have kept me alive”

“How so?” Alva’s curiosity had been sparked. The septa cleared her throat

“Perhaps is best if you speak with Lord Lancel by yourself, my lady.” She spoke, and made gestures to Willow so she would leave as well “his testimony really is a great one, the Seven truly help those who need them…If you are willing to do so, my lord”

Why was he called a Lord? As far as she knew, he held no lands…

“I am, I would be happy to help others find their way thanks to the Faith” he had a tired voice, Alva kept wondering what had happened to him “If you want to hear it, my lady”

Willow looked at her, unsure of what the girl would say. Alva just nodded, and both left. She was alone with her husband’s cousin, unsure of what to tell him “I would really like to hear your story, cousin”

The boy stared at the statues, his face looked too tired. It took a bit before he actually began to speak “The Battle of the Blackwater nearly costed my life…It was an injury to my arm that nearly had the Stranger take me. I was made a Lord after the battle, but it meant nothing when it seemed like I wouldn’t even live to see the land that had been granted to me…. I got worse, the maester wasn’t able to help me at first. Father feared that I would die, so he brought the High Septon to pray for me…He is a good man." She couldn’t look at his eyes, but his voice was soft "He said the mother spared me for some holy purpose, so I might atone for my sins. Soon I was no longer within the Stranger’s grasp, and I was even able to leave my bed once again”

“For what sins?” he looked almost her age, what could someone so young have done?

“Many sins to name them…sins that I did for love” Lancel answered with a sigh. “Love…it’s as beautiful as it’s dangerous, my Lady. I’m sure you already know that”

She did, but it was her love for Jaime that had kept her sane after her mother died…But it was that said love which had Alva leave her little brother all alone in the north. She didn’t wish to speak of it, “what are you lord of cousin?” he kept starring at the Seven

“Darry…it is in the Riverlands, the line of their last lord died during the war” he answered. A Riverland house…they must have supported King Robb, if it’s passing down to Lancel.

“I would have thought you on your way there by now, cousin, to take up your lordship." She heard Jaime’s voice. Her husband sat by her side, opposite to Lancel “I was told you were to marry a Frey girl as well…Did you come here to pray for her?”

Jaime grabbed her hand softly. Alva smiled at her husband, she hadn’t expected to see him until later

“Hello, cousin” Lancel greeted “Not as yet. There are outlaws in my castle…”

“More reasons for you to go” her husband was holding her closer to Alva’s surprise “Castle Darry must be made strong again, its lands protected, its burned fields plowed and planted anew….”

And tightly. Alva even felt a kiss on her cheek by him. She blushed, was it correct for such a thing on Sept?

“You are getting married, cousin? Alva asked

The boy frowned "A Frey girl, and not of my choosing. She is not even maiden. A widow, of Darry blood. My father says that will help me with the peasants, but the peasants are all dead." The war had been unkind to them…

"Still, coz… I wanted to congratulate you on your marriage. “Such a sweet cousin, her husband was I only regret that my duties do not permit me to attend."

"His Grace must be protected...” at least until the babies were born

"And will be. Still, I hate to miss your bedding. It is your first marriage and her second, I understand. I'm sure she will be pleased to show you what goes where."

Alva was unsure if she should laugh, such words on a place like that…Lancel didn’t look particularly happy either, but it was hard to tell, for his expression was the same.

"I know enough to do my duty as a husband, cousin…” the boy mumbled

"That's just the thing a bride wants on her wedding night, as my beautiful lady wife can attest,” said Jaime. "A husband who knows how to do his duty."

A flush crept up Lancel's cheeks, and her own as well

“She will surely be happy to show you, cousin…” was all she managed to say. And now she couldn’t dare to look at the poor boy.

"I pray for you, cousin. And for Her Grace the queen, as well as your lady wife. May the Mother grant you both many children and may the warrior protect her and her grace."

“Why thank you, cousin” she smiled at the boy. Jaime cupped Alva’s face and reached for a deep kiss. She hoped the gods didn’t mind. He let her go but still held her closely.

"Why would they need the Warrior? They have me." Jaime was right: with him close, they couldn’t be safer.

“This is a sept, ser…”Lancel reminded her husband “it’s not appropriate- “

“Had we married on King’s Landing, the ceremony would have been done here, and I would have kissed her in this very place” Jaime was right about it, they did kiss in their own wedding. Not that it was required, she just wanted to do so

“Still…I am not sure if the Seven would approve, cousin…” in the godswood, it might have been less of an issue

“Then I think we should leave you to pray, right, my lady wife?” Jaime asked her. Alva nodded, and her husband helped her to stand up.

“It was a pleasure to meet you, cousin “poor boy, she hoped that he could recover…” I hope that you and your wife are as happy as Jaime and me”

She walked off the sept with her husband, but her maid and septa were nowhere to been seen “Where is Willow and…” gods, what was the Septa’s name again?

“I send them off” Jaime answered, his beautiful smile showing “I wanted to have my beautiful wife for myself…”

“Oh Lord Commander, you embarrass me with your attention” she giggled as they walked “I wasn’t expecting to see you so early”

“Well, my lady, I just couldn’t wait to see you…” he said “and I was more than happy to save you from a conversation with my dear cousin, it seems that he has become quite pious”

“It seems that it helped him…” the poor boy looked unwell, he might have died otherwise “I truly was glad to meet him”

Her husband stopped “You know, people have said he looks like me…” Jaime said. Was he jealous of Lancel? Maybe that’s why he kept kissing her

Maybe he did, before the battle. Now…well it would be rude to point it, but the poor boy looked closer to an old man “I think you are certainly more handsome “She was to reach for a kiss, when she felt something rubbing between her legs and stopped. One of the kittens!

But to her surprise, it was the ugly black cat. And it was mostly ignoring her, it purred as it tried to steal Jaime’s attention. And now I’m jealous of a cat…but it’s such an ugly one!

“I thought it was one from the nice ones…” she complained as her husband lowered to pet the creature

“He is one of the nice ones” Alva was sure Jaime was going to lose an eye, and quite afraid of it, but the cat meowed and demanded for more pets once her husband stopped to look at her “don’t you like him?”

“He hissed at me when we just arrived, still does…and I prefer the others, but he drives them away” even when her maids wouldn’t shoo them.

Jaime chuckled “He might not be the prettiest cat around, but he is fond of me…and I grew fond of him” he picked the cat, who to her surprise, didn’t try to escape and just starred at her with big eyes

She slowly drove her hand close to it…and the cat leaned into her touch. Well, it was a hideous thing still, but maybe not as bad as she thought “does he have a name?”

“None that I can recall” Jaime answered, giving one last pet to it before setting him back on the floor “but we get along well”

Chapter Text

Tommen’s wedding took place in the Royal Sept, and it wasn’t quite as grand as his brother’s. Another lavish ceremony, after the way the first had ended, was not the best idea.

Less guests than those at my own wedding, but still more splendid of course. Such a minor house wouldn’t have been able to pay for much, specially so considering how quick the whole wedding had been planned.

This was the bride’s third wedding, and the groom’s first…not quite a good omen, even Jaime had to agree with his sister about it.

Still, he couldn’t deny that it was quite a sight: Tommen wasn’t tall enough to put the cloak on Margaery, so the little queen would have to lean down to allow him to do so

Little queen, yet she’s the same age as my lady wife. He attended as a Kingsguard, Alva as a guest. She looked beautiful on her dress crimson…Margaery and my son are closer in age than both of us…

A maiden half my age…barely a child herself. I saw the little queen at the funeral, she knows how to act, but my lady wife still has quite a lot to learn.

The bride wore  with sheer ivory silk, myrish lace, and seed pearls. Judging by Cersei’s face, it seemed that it had been the same clothes she used on her previous wedding... Meanwhile, his sister was dressed with an all-black dress.

She still mourns Joffrey it is clear to anyone. It was maybe a bit too cruel to have her attend the ceremony so soon, but Jaime knew it had been needed. Tommen’s rule depended on his bride’s family, even if the thought wasn’t much of his sister’s taste. It would keep him safe

It was also clear that Cersei would have rather spend whatever money the Tyrell’s had on searching for Tyrion. Jaime himself had been spending a good amount of time looking for any clues of his brother on the Tower of the Hand…or at least pretending to be doing so. She also wanted to find Varys and the gaoler…it was better than Cersei didn’t hear a thing or two.

The whole thing had not been a nice affair. Jaime had to put quite a high number of men tearing the place with picks and hammers, and as much as he hated it, the state the place had been left at did mean that burning it down just like his sister wanted was the best solution, as it wouldn’t be cheap to fix it.

He had lost count of just how many passageways they had discovered. Some of these secret crawlways had turned out to be so small that Jaime had needed pages and stableboys to explore them. A passage to the black cells had been found, and a stone well that seemed to have no bottom (he decided it best not to find if it did, either). They had found a chamber full of skulls and yellowed bones, and four sacks of tarnished silver coins, and Jaime was still unsure of who the fat Targaryen king depicted on them was.

 There had also been a thousand rats as well, as the cats in the Red Keep certainly weren’t doing their job, but they seemed not to like going there in the first place.  Not that it will matter anymore,  I suppose.

And of course, there had been accidents: One boy had gotten stuck in a narrow passage and had to be pulled out by his feet, shrieking. The poor lad was around the same age as his good brother, which made Jaime felt guilty enough to give the boy some coins.

A man fell down a shaft and broke his legs, and it still wasn’t the worst incident: Two guardsmen vanished exploring a side tunnel. Some of the other guards swore they could hear them calling faintly through the stone, but when his men tore down the wall they found only earth and rubble on the far side.

It was better not to dwell much on it.

The groom married in his finest clothes, which had the colors of the cloak he was carrying: It had been the same that had been put on top of his sister’s shoulders, back when she had gotten married, with the crowned stag of Baratheon worked upon its back in beads of onyx. Margaery’s maiden cloak was green, with the Tyrell’s yellow rose covered in gold.

Both finer cloaks than the ones my bride and I used… Mine was made by a woman who didn’t even get the colors right, and my wife used one that looked even older than the cloak my lord father used on his own wedding. And I doubt it was, but her family couldn’t have afforded a better one yet his wife’s face had lighten up when she saw him near the three. So beautiful she had looked there…

Her white dress was old, he knew it. Older than Alva herself surely. Jaime couldn’t expect more, the boy lord had been forced to plan the whole affair in less than a month, there would have had to be some issues. Alva never told him where that dress was from, but he suspected it was from one of her family members, maybe her own lady mother. She barely had any jewelry on her, besides the golden crown he had given her so many years ago.

His golden armor was far more expensive than everything his little wife had used that day. Not that it mattered, she looked better in her name day clothes, if he had to be honest about it.

He wondered what was the girl thinking of the whole ceremony. Theirs had also been a quick affair: no priest, no vows, just a few words and a silent prayer in front of a tree. A hideous tree…where I also swore to care for her and our children, while her brother cried his eyes out. I wonder if the boy lord thought about killing me right there.

Jaime was supposed to be watching over the king, but his eyes kept looking for his wife, just like his thoughts. The girl had been thankfully feeling better than other days. At least the city’s smell couldn’t reach her on the Red Keep. For once, she seemed to be more interested on paying attention to the ceremony rather than him. Should that offend me?

His eyes also went to Lancel, but he knew it was a waste of time.

If truth was told, he had been trying to look for a chance to speak with the boy while he was alone, but his Kingsguard duties hadn’t been kind to it, and his cousin was next to some septon or with his father most of the time. It so happened that his wife’s Septa had thought she could benefit from listening to whatever nonsense Lancel was going to tell her.

He felt like smacking the woman after she smiled, as she kept assuring him that Lancel could help his wife take a better approach to the seven.

But Tyrion had told me that Cersei had been fucking our dear cousin, and his wife had managed to remind Jaime of his sweet sister, who was to say the same wouldn’t happen to Lancel? That made him need to go and see her, making sure that the boy would stay away from her.

And he found that the poor girl was in danger of getting bored to death. Still, Jaime had made sure to kiss her, remind his cousin that she was a married woman, a woman married to him. Just like his sister wouldn’t need Lancel, the girl would never need him.

To his relief, Jaime had understood that the Imp had been lying. Cersei would sooner have Robert's corpse between her legs than a pious fool like Lancel.

Tyrion, you evil bastard, you should have lied about someone more likely. Even my lady wife felt nothing but pitty for our dear cousin.

That at least meant Cersei had truly waited for him. He had been a fool for letting his brother mess with him in such a way. He could have both his lady wife and his sister…

But not that night. That night we wouldn’t have either of them. Cersei had insisted that he was to guard their son and his new bride. It was senseless, he knew. Tyrion was far away from King’s Landing, and he didn’t have a reason to harm Tommen.

Thankfully, there had been another matter which concerned Cersei, as Margaery’s grandmother had insisted that groom and bride slept in the same room that night. Tommen was eight, and at first Jaime wasn’t even sure of what he was supposed to see, and his sister hadn’t been of much help either.

She had mentioned a Plumm and seemed frustrated when Jaime hadn’t recognized his name. He could only remember Lord Philip, one of the men escorting his lord father’s body back to the Rock and guessed it could have been his father…much to Cersei’s disappointment.

It had been his lady wife who had explained to Jaime who the man was, when he had to tell her that he wouldn’t be by her side during Tommen’s wedding night. The girl had also been puzzled as to why would the Queen give such a command, as he decided it would be best to tell her he’d guard the king and the queen, until Jaime mentioned the name: It was amusing how much some women admired Aemon the Dragonknight to the point of even knowing the supposed misdeeds of his older brother.

Jaime didn’t know if that meant his sister was right, but he had accepted to guard their son already. His little wife did agree with his sister that the boy was too young to sleep in the same bed as his wife, which didn’t surprise him, as she had agreed with Cersei that he shouldn’t marry yet.

Both have a bit more in common with each other than they imagined he had realized, but had kept it for himself I wonder if they could maybe get along. My sweet wife always wanted a sister, and Cersei could use some company…

But he knew it would take a while for that to even be a possibility. His sister was still not completely happy with his actions, he wasn’t that blind. He would have to earn her forgiveness…and that without even having brought the accusations that Tyrion had laid against her. His own guilt was what made him agree to her advice of naming their cousin Damion as castellan for the Rock, instead of their uncle Kevan. He was going with Lancel to the Riverlands, anyways, so he guessed that choice made sense.

When all the vows were spoken, the king and his new queen stepped outside the sept to accept congratulations. Some guests offered them to Cersei as well. His sister knew how to gracefully pretend to be happy, and he knew better than to hope that she’d taken Alva’s shy words to heart. But both don’t think this wedding should have happened now, so soon after Joffrey and father’s deaths, and Cersei knows my wife agreed with her. Both are so wrong unfortunately...

It had befallen to him to escort his sister to the Small Hall. He would have rather escort Alva, as Cersei blamed him for the wedding, complaining about Margaery, and showing she truly did not know Renly Baratheon. Sure, he was Robert’s brother, and sure, he had a cock, like most men did, but it was clear to most that out of the four Tyrell siblings, Margaery was the only one he wouldn’t ever have bedded.

The reminder of Lady Olenna leaving did little to help his sister calm. Jaime wanted to turn, try and see where his little wife was, but his sister kept talking, complaining about the Tyrells.

She might be right about Loras, I wouldn’t have picked him either…but I’m sure the cloak will change the boy. I would hope it happens before I have no more excuses to remain in King’s Landing, but I doubt the gods will grant me that.

He held the door for his sister, trying to ignore some of her harsher words, and Cersei took her seat beside the King. Margaery was on the other side of Tommen, in the place of honor. When she entered, arm in arm with the little king, the girl made a point of stopping to kiss Cersei on the cheeks and throw her arms around her. He wondered how had his sister found the strength not to curse her when the girl declared she felt as a second mother to her.

Like the service, the wedding feast was modest. It had been Margaery’s mother who had made all the arrangements, his sister understandably didn’t feel up to the task, but Jaime had still taken caution, as to make sure that Tommen would survive the meal. He did so by appointing Blount to try the food before the boy King, and having a maester close by, in case even that failed. Only seven courses were served, a small amount for such an event (and still more than had been served at his own wedding) and Jaime had made to station men to oversee it’s preparation .

 The Tyrell’s huge, fat fool and Moon Boy (how had he ever believed that Cersei even thought about kissing him, let alone fuck the man?) entertained the guests between dishes, and musicians played as they ate. His wife smiled at him from across her seating, and he did return it, but the fools did catch her attention. Of course, they are quite the sight for her, she’s only ever known the one at White Harbor. That didn’t make him feel less jealous, of course.

They listened to pipers and fiddlers, a lute and a flute, a high harp. The only singer was some favorite of Lady Margaery's, a dashing young lad in blue who appropriately called himself the Blue Bard. Alva and I had more singers at our wedding, I guess we beat my son and his wife on that. The northerns were even kind enough to give me my own song.

The toasts had begun, and he could see they weren’t something that Cersei enjoyed. Every single one seemed to make her miserable. His sister drank more cups of wine than he could count, and he barely ate anything himself. He had to put on the act of truly believing that Tyrion was there, so Jaime would prowling the hall, twitching aside the tapestries with his right hand to assure that no one was hiding behind them…and it gave him the excuse to go next to his pretty little wife from time to time.

Poor Tommen had some win that went the wrong way, and Cersei knocked a serving girl as she rushed to his side. Thankfully, he was fine, and Jaime’s own heart had nearly stopped, but his sister…she had to excuse herself for a moment, her eyes full of tears. He couldn’t leave the Small Hall, for his son was still there…

“Is her Grace all right?” his little wife stood by his side, he hadn’t seen when she went to his side

The guests thankfully seemed busy with the fools and the music to pay them any mind.

“She got worried for the King, that’s all” Jaime reassured her

“Why don’t we go with her?” Alva inquired, her soft blue eyes full of worry

“I can’t leave, it’s my duty to stay with the King “as he is my son

“I can go see if she is fine, then” the girl offered. Jaime didn’t think it was a smart idea, Cersei was not well, but thankfully, his sister returned before he could think of a lie.

“Your Grace…” his little wife spoke, and tried to hold her hand, but Cersei refused her.

“Go sit, it’s not good for the babes if you stand too much “Jaime told his wife, who decided it was best to listen. He tried to calm his sister down, but had little success. At least she did go back to her seat.

Soon, sweets and nuts and cheese had been served and cleared away, Margaery and Tommen began the dancing. The Tyrell girl stood a good foot and a half taller than her little husband, and Tommen was not the most skilled danced, but Jaime had to admit that the boy looked rather adorable on his attempts. When they were done, her cousins swooped in, one after the other, insisting that His Grace must dance with them as well. Even Alva danced with the King, her belly making it easier for Tommen.

Loras danced with the bride, and since his wife was busy dancing with her stepson, Jaime saw it fit to ask his sister, who couldn’t keep her eyes off their son. He was a fool to think it would cheer her, as Cersei refused him. His little wife thankfully didn’t, even after dancing with Tommen.

Jaime wondered what the thoughts on the Red Keep had been after news reached of his marriage, but for now, at least it seemed that the girl had been welcomed well, despite the circumstances to their arrival. Cersei seemed to refuse everyone who approached her, and kept drinking a bit too much wine…but he focused on his little wife. Alva didn’t dance as much as she had during their wedding, but she was still joyful and only stopped when Jaime suggested she should rest.

He noticed that the second of Margaery’s brother, Garlan, helped Alva to get on her chair, and he wished he’d been the one to escort her back to her seat.

But he had to stop Cersei from drinking, even if only for a moment.

"I think Her Grace has had enough wine for one night, “he spoke, but she rose so fast she almost fell. Jaime caught her by the arm and steadied her. She wrenched free and clapped her hands together. The music died, the voices stilled. "Lords and ladies," Cersei called out loudly, "if you will be so good as to come outside with me, we shall light a candle to celebrate the union of Highgarden and Casterly Rock, and a new age of peace and plenty for our Seven Kingdoms."

Father, give me strength…

Chapter Text

Alva had never attended a wedding of the new gods, having been born after Lord Manderly’s heir had married. This was also the first wedding she would be attending as lady of the Rock: despite her thoughts that Tommen was just a child, she had to hope for the best for the ceremony.

Her maids, as always, were of great help. Alva was thankful for having them, when Jaime couldn’t be around her, she could count with their help. Those women were really her best support.

Which is why she choosing to keep silent with the fact that they would take her through the Red Keep’s tunnels, the same that maid had shown to her and the guard on her first day in the castle. After all, if the stairs needed to be cleaned, it was better to avoid them. They mostly seemed to be cleaned when Jaime wasn’t with her

But how strange, I haven’t seen that woman again…and she looked quite like the eunuch even smelled the same, weirdly enough.

Still, it wasn’t a matter that she should think that much off, at least for the moment. There were other important things at the moment.

Jaime wasn’t going to be with her that night, he had told her. She hadn’t understood why her good sister wanted her husband to be guarding the king, until he mentioned Osyfer Plumm

It makes sense. Tommen is just a boy…I don’t want to think I’ll of Queen Margaery, but she could convince others that a child from her and another man is my nephew’s but Jaime hadn’t seem to know who the man was, so it had been up to her to explain the story. After all, king Aegon the unworthy was the dragon knight’s brother, she knew about him…

She loved the story of Aemon and his sister, two souls in love who couldn’t be together. Maybe they were brother and sister, but they were dragons after all. And for a while, she had felt sorry for them, as she was in love with someone who she never thought she could marry

But she had been lucky, she had Jaime.

The story of Aemon had been thought to her by Dravor, of course. He admired the knight for well, being a knight, a great warrior

“Better than your stupid Kingslayer!” and then he had gotten angry that she took a liking to the love story. Not that he would understand, unlike Sansa had, because he was a boy…

And he will forever be one too. It was strange, but thoughts about her brother would creep on her at any moment. She tried to clear the tears from her eyes

I hope Alric isn’t going through the same gods, she wanted to ask for a raven to write to him, but circumstances had been everything but kind. At best, she could hope to get and send a letter to white harbor, requesting to send a message to him.

I will make sure to tell him I’m all right, and that Jaime and I arrived safely not that he would want to hear of Jaime, of course but I better not tell him what happened at sea….

He would worry. Worry too much. She had already seen him cry before. And she didn’t want Alric to maybe get as bad as she had.

“Is everything alright, m’lady?” One of her maid’s voices got her off her thoughts. She wasn’t quite sure which one, at least for a bit

“Oh, yes” she smiled, but wondered why she was asking

“There’s tears in your eyes, m’lady” that was Willow’s voice “and you seem to have drifted away “

“My apologies “gods, it keeps happening “I just feel very happy for the little king and the little queen “she is my age, but this should be enough of an excuse, if not…

“Are you sure, my lady?” Asked Bethany, as the last details of her clothes were finished

“I miss my home “it was a partial truth, at least

It was still strange to be in King’s Landing. It was still strange to be in a city. The climate was too warm for her taste, she would have to try and sleep mostly naked sometimes (Jaime didn’t seem to have complaints about it) and she could hear no animals nearby.

Only pigeons, crows, and cats (they included the old tom cat, who turned out not to be as bad as she thought, as well as the cuter ones she was fond of). If they went near the stables, something still rare for her, there would be horses. But no owls, no wolves, and no morning birds could be heard.

She also couldn’t name even half of the staff. All she could see was faces, of men, women and children.

Alva did wonder if it could be a good idea to talk to Queen Margaery and her cousins. She had seen them but hadn’t been formally introduced to the girls as of yet.

I wonder if they met Sansa. She would have liked them, I’m sure. And I hope they liked her back…

Poor Sansa…At least Arya was well, and she was going back to her home. Alva still couldn’t believe how much the youngest Stark girl had changed, and she could only hope for the best.

Weirdly, I didn’t see her at my good father’s funeral. I wonder if she will attend this wedding, I want to speak with her again...

The needlework she had made of the Stark’s sigil was nearly done. She wanted to give it to Arya before she departed, but Jaime seemed to always want to change the topic every time Alva tried to inquire about the little Stark’s whereabouts.

Maybe he thinks I will get sad and miss my home if I speak to her. Which, unfortunately, happened. Poor Jaime was so worried when I drifted, no wonder he would rather keep me away from Arya, at least for now.

.

The wedding took longer than she had expected. It was frankly boring, but it could have always been worse. Frankly, watching little Tommen putting the cloak on his wife’s shoulder at least had been amusing enough for the whole thing to at least be worth it.

Still, it was strange just how a sept was required to carry the whole ordeal. A heart tree, the bride and groom and the witnesses was much faster.

But this will make for a nice letter than I can send to Alric latter. I bet he would also be bored out of his mind…

She wasn’t sure of who was sitting next to her. It was one thing to recognize a House, but recognize a person was an entirely different a fair. Alva knew Lancel, his father and mother were close by, but she suspected she had been sitting next to some of the West’s vassals.

It felt strange. People from houses she’d never heard of also congratulated her over her marriage to Jaime, once the ceremony was done, but more so in private as to not take attention from the newlyweds. They had accents she had never heard before, maybe Reach houses.

Her maids said it would be a small wedding. And, while it was smaller than her Lord good father’s funeral, it was the biggest one she had ever attended. Still, while beautiful, no one could ever compare to hers, as it was Jaime who she had married.

The Small Hall (Alva insisted that the name had to be changed) was used to hold the wedding feast. Twice as many guests as there were at their wedding too. But for a King’s wedding, it was indeed tiny.

The feast went well, mostly, and she could catch glimpses of her husband from time to time. He looks so handsome as the Lord Commander …but I think his golden armor is much better. She smiled shily at him…that was, when she wasn’t laughing at the fools. They were a rare sight in the north, so two in the same feast were a rarity.

The toasting was interesting: how many people could possibly come up with those many reasons to congratulate the newlyweds? One toast or two were enough for northern weddings…of course, she mainly thought that as she found that wine’s taste was almost unbearable to her, now that she was pregnant

Her poor good sister had a scare, after Tommen choked on some wine. It was fit that she had run away, and Alva thought it would be good to check on her, but Cersei was back before she or anyone else could go.

“Your Grace…” Alva tried to hold Cersei’s hand, but she was refused. Not that she could blame her good sister

Alva decided it was a better idea to go back to her seat, just like Jaime suggested.

“Are you going to dance with the little King, my lady?” a girl around her age asked. She was pretty and willowed, her green clothes revealed that she was a Tyrell , but likely from a lower branch: Queen Margaery was the only daughter, if Alva remembered well.

“I’m not sure if I can, my feet have been hurting” Alva answered shyly. She was unfamiliar with customs of the South. While acceptable in the north to dance while heavy with children, would it be the same case in King’s Landing?

“You are his lady aunt after all, the little king will be glad to dance with you!” and the girl thus left with two other girls with green clothes. Just how many Tyrell cousins where there?

But she is right…the King is my nephew now, I should dance with him. And so, she did, once the other girls had dance with the boy.

“Would you like to dance with me, your majesty?” she asked. The boy was adorable, with beautiful golden curls and green eyes just like her husband. I hope our children are as adorable as their cousin.

“Yes, lady aunt” the boy answered shyly. It was easy to follow him, he was a clumsy dancer, which suited her at the moment. Incredibly, her feet didn’t hurt that much while she danced with Tommen, and she did miss being able to move around more freely. She spotted the little queen, who was dancing with a handsome young man in Kingsguard clothes.

That might be ser Loras of course, who didn’t know of him? He is not as handsome as Jaime…

“Your majesty, would you mind if I dance with my lady wife?” Jaime’s voice got both her and Tommen to stop, and Alva smiled

“Of course not, uncle ser” gods, the boy was adorable. It made her wish that no one could ever prove he was a bastard, at least he be harmed in some way. Jaime slowly took her hand while the king went to dance with his wife once again.

Alva couldn’t move as well as she had back on their wedding, but she didn’t mind. Jaime was gentle, and far from clumsy like little Tommen was. It was mostly him holding her and slowly moving to the music, which of course she didn’t mind.

“You look beautiful, my lady” she smiled, there was no one she could love more than Jaime. Even getting tired wasn’t a problem with her, all that she cared about was to be in his arms.

Specially since he would be away that night. Alva would be all alone, as her servants slept in the other room, and she yet did not have ladies-in-waiting. They are to sleep with me in my bed when my husband is away, according to my septa. It’s so strange: I wouldn’t even look at anyone else who isn’t Jaime.

If it was up to her, she could have danced all night with Jaime…” Maybe you should go rest” but it seems that her husband had other ideas “for the children’s sake” of course, her husband had other duties, so she couldn’t have him entertained for so long.

She nodded and decided to walk by on her own.

“May I help you, my lady?” it was another Tyrell, judging by his green clothes, and the fact that he looked a bit like ser Loras. A little bit, which was: the man was taller, broader, and had a beard on his face.

“Yes, ser” she accepted, as Alva did feel tired, and she didn’t want to inconvenience Jaime.

The music died a few minutes after Alva had sat again.

"Lords and ladies," her good sister called out loudly, "if you will be so good as to come outside with me, we shall light a candle to celebrate the union of Highgarden and Casterly Rock, and a new age of peace and plenty for our Seven Kingdoms."

Jaime had told her about Cersei’s idea for the wedding. One she was sure her poor husband opposed, but the Queen had already decided it had to be done.

Dark and forlorn stood the Tower of the Hand, with only gaping holes where oaken doors and shuttered windows had once been. Yet even ruined and slighted, it loomed above the outer ward. All the guests and servants filed out of the Small Hall, passing beneath its shadow.

They were a hundred yards from the tower, before Alva heard the Queen speak again "Lord Hallyne! You may commence."

A pyromancer…I thought Jaime had killed all of them…

The man waved the torch he was holding, and the archers on the walls bent their bows and sent a dozen flaming arrows through the gaping windows.

The tower went up with a whoosh. In half a heartbeat its interior was alive with light, red, yellow, orange . . . and green. It was a beautiful color, the same as Jaime’s eyes…

Wildfire…that was the only thing that could turn fire into such a color.

Even while standing away, the heat from those flames could easily be felt. She had burnt her hands a bit while trying to recover her golden crown from the flames, and yet, Alva could say with ease that it hadn’t felt as hot. To think such a thing could be made by men… It was a beautiful, yet dreadful sight.

Her husband was staring at the tower, and at his sister.

She doesn’t know why he killed the King…No one knew that Jaime was a hero, only she did. Alric hadn’t believed her, and her husband had insisted that she didn’t tell anyone. No one would know that he really was a knight from tales of the Age of Heroes.

I will tell our children she had decided, and went with her husband, simply holding his hand.

The Tower of the Hand gave out a sudden groan. Stone cracked and split, and part of the upper battlements fell away and landed with a crash that shook the hill, sending up a cloud of dust and smoke. As fresh air rushed in through the broken masonry, the fire surged upward. Green flames leapt into the sky and whirled around each other.

Alva felt her husband’s grasp on her hand tighten a bit. And she tightened hers as well, for her husband’s sake.

Chapter Text

Her poor son had married Margaery, and even if that meant he was safe, it didn’t mean the Queen was happy

Having to wait to get rid of her good sister only added more frustration for the queen.

It was as if everything in her life had decided to inconvenience her in every single way possible. Despite this, Cersei could count herself lucky after gaining Lady Taena as a companion. Even better, she had found that it was better to get rid of Senelle, all thanks to her.

How could she repay that treacherous maid, better than giving her to a man who had earned her trust? Senelle was long gone, and if she was honest, she preferred Dorcas.

Qyburn was not like one of those sheep, and Cersei was glad that the mans had accompanied Gregor Clegane to King’s Landing, seeing that grandmaster Pycelle was growing too slow.

And he had managed to satisfy a question that had intrigued her mind

” How much moon tea would it take to get rid of a pregnancy where the mother is close to give birth?” She had asked the man one evening

Despite ordering those stairs to get cleaned more often, the girl hadn’t fallen yet. And yet it was, even if she hated it, for the best, as the realm wouldn’t talk about House Lannister being cursed…but she could still dream.

Maybe if the children lived, but the mother died, there would be less talking. The little cunt wasn’t quite smart, and had barely begun to integrate herself more into court life, whenever she wasn’t around pestering Jaime, that was. It was the Tyrell cousins who might have to suffer her, it at least was a blessing

Her brother could have already sent the girl away to the Rock. Father’s funeral had departed King’s Landing, and sending the so called Lady of the Rock could have been a good idea, if her brother wasn’t a fool. But he is less of one that our dear uncle, who has chosen to leave to Darry, even if it’s not by much.

Of course girl was pregnant, but she had already gone all the way to King’s Landing. But, she had to admit that keeping her there made sure the girl couldn’t embarrass her house.

Alva was too lowborn to properly handle the position that opening her legs for Jaime had granted. She looked in awe like an idiot the first time the girl had seen the summer island prince that Robert kept in court, and even the fools in Tommen’s wedding had seemed to catch her attention.

The girl had even joined her and Tommen to walk around the westermen’s camps before they marched, but the city’s smell made the girl ill all too soon. She had to leave, and Cersei had to excuse her. A lady that couldn’t even do her job properly…what a waste of good air. But that at least had allowed her to end the evening in her solar with Maegor’s Holdfast, alone with Tommen and Lady Taena.

Even Bronn’s little insolence in naming his lackwit wife’s babe after the imp hadn’t been able to damper her mood, once she was free from having to deal with the girl.

Or Jaime suggesting that Taena might be spying for Queen Margaery. Her dear brother couldn’t understand a plan as simple as the one she had: the myrish woman would tell her everything she needed to know about the Tyrrells, and she could have her tell Margaery exactly what she wanted…of course, her brother was too blind to understand it.

To her surprise, and she had to admit it angered her, it seemed that Jaime no longer wanted her to help the little cunt.

So, she decided to be kind to the girl, on her own account, and invited the girl to join her for tea. This time, it would be just the two of them, save for their servants. And thankfully, Jaime was busy enough not to hear of it

Of course, having tea with her good sister meant she needed to make sure she had wine nearby…

The girl greeted her, shy as ever.

“You are the Lady of the Rock, so act like it “ Cersei scolded her, and the girl stuttered a bit.

And yet, she is the one who married my brother

Cersei couldn’t quite recognize the maid that was with her dear good sister: a big woman, with black hair…not the one she had come to an agreement with.

A dangerous agreement Cersei knew I ought to send her to Qyburn along with Senelle, eventually. But first, the woman would need to finish her part of the deal.

The tea was served, along with some wine, and the girl smiled “good sister, I’m glad to see you are doing well…I’m aware the wedding wasn’t of your liking “

The wretched little bitch…who was unfortunately right. At least she had the sense not to have brought it on public

“It had to be done, unfortunately Jaime was right “ Cersei took a sip of her wine “a mother would do anything for her children…”

But what would that child know? The children she carried were simply a way to tying Jaime to her, even if she put a hand over her belly. She was no lion, even if she carried them.

Besides, it had been fruitful, now that she had the myrish woman with her. And she didn’t mind her that much: Taena wasn’t fond of the girl either.

”That one doesn’t seem to be too bright. I think I have seen chickens far more astute” and how right was she.

The girl sipped her tea “Lord good father told me that I would need ladies in waiting…but he wanted me to have one of the Frey women as well”

“And you will” the girl didn’t seem too happy about it, a frown formed on her face “they are loyal subjects of the Iron Throne, and friends of our house. Only a traitor would refuse them “

the girl’s father had died on his way to the north, lost to the sea. Why couldn’t those braavosi boys made sure she joined her father? At least they won’t tell anyone about it…

Cersei looked at whoosh women of the westernlands could join the girl, she at least had to pretend to do so.

Maybe a Westerling girl, if she wants to see who cost Robb Stark his life. A dumb boy, who thought with the wrong head.

Lord Banefort had a daughter, of the same age as Sansa Stark….

Another northern bitch.

One of the girl’s maids had reported to Qyburn that she was fond of Sansa Stark: of course they got along, both were air heads, who could only wish ill to Cersei’s family. Maybe once the head of the stark  girl was brought to her, she would allow her good sister to see her

But Cersei kept herself as polite as she could, drinking some more wine once the first serving of tea was gone.

“Won’t you drink with me, good sister?” The girl had already finished her tea as well, but it didn’t seem like she had touched the wine.

“I’m alright without it “ the girl wasn’t being honest. The subject of having to choose which Frey Woman to take into the Rock was a sour one, and Cersei smiled.

“More tea will come soon, and wine is a good way to get over some less desired affairs “like being near the girl “drink a bit…don’t tell me your lord father would forbid you from it “

“He didn’t” She had expected that bring the man would cause a reaction on her, but to her surprise, it hadn’t “maybe just a cup…” and she did drink it.

“Just one cup never makes it “ Cersei insisted and served it for her good sister as well “after a meeting with my council, it’s a bottle or two that I need “

“I imagine it does help” The girl drank slowly, but at least she did “I’m sorry to have you here after the meetings, your majesty “

“Nonsense, this was my idea “ Cersei reminded the girl, and once her cup was empty, refilled both of theirs “those meetings would bore you, at least the ones you will have as a lady of the rock won’t be as tiring “ but you shouldn’t be attending those, it’s my duty, the Rock is mine…

“May I ask what you discussed?” of course she didn’t want to hear more about the Freys. And, if Cersei was honest, neither did she. She could yell at her for such insolence, as those were matters that didn’t concern the little cunt, but Cersei decided to entertain her.

“I have chosen a new master of ships “a fine addition “Aurane Waters is sure to prove his worth “

“I hope he servers his majesty well “she will probably go and tell my brother about it. A diligent wife, all she knows to do is what her husband wants. No doubt she will inform Jaime, who was too busy doing gods know what to attend the meeting

“He is strong and vigorous, no doubt he will “and he desires me. A lean young man with grey-green eyes and long silver-gold hair. The first time she had seen him, for half a heartbeat she had almost thought Rhaegar Targaryen had returned from the ashes. Of course, he wasn’t half as comely as Rhaegar was “The sea runs in his veins, he is the brother of the late lord Velaryon.”

More tea was served for the two of them. The girl drank it slowly, as it was hot.

“It would depend on how close” the man had answered “if there’s already a bump showing, the amount often proves to be fatal to the mother, and if she survives, it nearly makes her barren”

The girl left the tea aside and took a bit from a lemon cake. Cersei kept drinking her wine but did occasionally try the tea as well.

The answer had been satisfactory enough, but she was still curious “Say, what if it was a mother who’s a month or two shy of giving birth”.

The girl asked about other houses who could provide daughters to be her ladies-in-waiting, and Cersei did give her more ideas, none related to the Freys for now. The Brooms could provide a cousin, she was sure. And she told the girl about her aunt Genna, but the woman would be better off not having to deal with the child. Her cousin Damion had a girl and a wife, who could also serve the role.

“I had an old lady-in-waiting, Jeyne Farman” Cersei told her “She has a dozen children, I’m sure she can spare a daughter or two as well” She repaid my kindness with betrayal.

“I would be honored to have one by my side, your grace” the girl answered, of course she would. Cersei served herself another cup of wine

“In such a case, it would require an extremely high dose, two full cups of tea. The children might survive, but the mother is sure to bleed out” not as good as she wished, but it was still an acceptable answer.

Alva had also mentioned how she sewed one afternoon with the Queen and her cousins, and they taught her how to sew a rose. When questioned about sewing a lion, the girl had answered that she had learn it before and gave one to Jaime as a gift. She then asked if Cersei would want one as well, and the Queen saw no other option but to accept it. That made her need another cup.

Her curiosity had finally gotten the better of her, unfortunately “would it be possible to slip it into a woman’s tea, without her knowing?”

The girl, for being a northern, had a tongue that was surprisingly sensitive to the tea. She blew on it to make it colder.

“I would have expected you to prefer it nearly boiling, good sister” Cersei remarked “Don’t you northerns prefer drink it like that?” Sansa Stark hadn’t, but it amused her to see what her good sister’s little mind could come with an answer.

“It burns my tongue” the girl answered “I do like hot drinks…”

“Like my brother’s seed?” she asked, with a slight grin on her face. It was a fortune that the girl hadn’t been drinking, or else she would have spit the drink on her.

Her freckled face went too red “pardon me, your grace?”

“Why, you are his lady wife, aren’t you? “ because you stole him away “Haven’t you pleased my brother before?”

“Is..is that possible?” what a dumb little idiot “May I have another cup of wine?”

“Are we not woman grown, my lady?” Cersei questioned her, but did serve her more of it, and of course, to herself as well.

Then dear Alva went back to drink her tea.

“Because of the amount, it would be too noticeable” the man had told her

“Your grace, I meant to ask…” what stupid idea was on that little mind? She caressed her belly “what sort of tea is this one? I have never tried any this delicious”

“But if you wish it, I can make sure to brew it” that servitude had earned him a spot in her council.

“Tyroshi pear tea” the queen told the latwick child “I’m glad is of your liking”

Cersei had wanted to say yes…” not for now” but it wouldn’t be a wise move, as of yet. Maybe, if she found a way, it would be better to make sure the girl was the only left of her house…but that she would have to figure it another day. Still, a cup of it wouldn’t hurt, just to see how it went…

Chapter Text

His father had always been a lion, but he had never claimed to be a god. Still, his body  and the funeral party had departed through the Gate of Gods, instead of the Lion Gate. Jaime had gone to say his farewell, as it would still take him some more time to go himself to the Rock.

His father’s bannermen, now his (as much as he wanted to say otherwise) were to escort him back to the rock. Jaime had seen boars, beetles, a green arrow and a red ox, crossed spears, crossed halberds, badgers, a treecat, a maunch….the gods help my poor lady wife, she is going to have to learn to tell them apart soon enough

That had been a week or so ago, they might be arriving by now.

But such a day had given his uncle Kevan the opportunity to speak with Jaime, although the knight had wished to speak with his cousin Lancel instead. Their horses had met as they rode down the hill.

” I could always name you the Castellan” listening to Cersei had been a mistake, he wasn’t blind to it anymore.

”My son needs me at Drarry” his uncle had spoken, as they both rode through the hill. He was departing with Lancel to the Riverlands, so his cousin could finally marry his Frey bride “how fares your lady wife?”

It had been a surprise to see his uncle ask for the girl. They hadn’t spoken much, as it had been Lancel who had done so. I should pity the weasel that will be married to him.

“She fares well” I have seen she enjoys going with Margaery and her cousins, when she’s not with her septa. He had heard them all giggle he wondered what they talked about, but at least she doesn’t have any complains about her companions.

“As well as your king?” That sounded more like a reproach

“He is doing even better, I’m training him myself “ Tommen was barely starting, so he couldn’t say if he was a promise or not: his wife and her pregnancy had seemed to calm Cersei enough to allow to do as much.

What he could say was that the King was enthusiastic. Jaime had only trained his good brother before, so it had taken him a bit more time to show Tommen how to correctly hold a sword. And like his good brother, they had only used wooden ones so far.

“Have you chosen who will teach him once you go to the Rock, nephew?” His uncle questioned him

“There’s still plenty of time before that happens “Jaime considered it best that way “my lady wife hasn’t given birth yet, and our children won’t be strong enough for the journey until they have reached their first name day”

“And you wish for them to be born here?” I don’t

“I can’t send Alva alone to the Rock “in theory, it could be easily done: any of the wheelhouses, or even just a large carriage, could carry her comfortably until she was at Casterly Rock “she is barely getting used to King’s Landing “

“Then you should be departing along with her, escorting your lord father back to the Rock “and there it was, again: his uncle was reproaching Jaime “your father is gone, and you and your wife need to rule now “

“I compromised with my father while he was alive, and he agreed to it. So did she “ or else, Alva wouldn’t have been practicing with her septa

“Compromise? You broke your vows, Tywin was generous enough to allow you to stay on the Kingsguard and not give you any punishment “now his uncle wasn’t  even trying to hide his tone

“Would you rather have me leave right now? “even his father had understood it wasn’t a good idea “maybe I should name ser Loras the new Lord Commander, or maybe even ser Balon Swann. After all, he’s the most experienced of my brothers, after me that is “

Let’s see if he likes that idea.

And as Jaime thought, he hadn’t, seeing his uncle hadn’t bothered to even answer.

“Strife between Lannisters will only help our enemies “Jaime spoke. He would depart King’s Landing, eventually, and wasn’t fit to be his son’s Hand, as much as Cersei thought otherwise, so it was for the best that his uncle accepted.

“Cersei wants to rule, and my place is at Darry with Lancel. The castle must be restored, the lands planted and protected. So does Casterly Rock, hopefully it will still be there after your children are old enough to travel “his uncle didn’t sound convinced about it.

Jaime looked back: Lancel was riding ten yards behind them. His eyes were hollow, his hair dry and white. How come he was the same age as his beautiful lady wife?

The babes would fare better than my dear cousin. And to think Tyrion told me Cersei was fucking him…Lancel had milk in his veins, not Kevan’s blood. Tyrion was lying, he had just meant to hurt Jaime.

Yet he could still hear his voice, all bitter and full of anger

She’s been fucking Lancel and Osmund Kettleblack and Moon Boy for all I know…

He decided it was best not to pay too much attention to the poor lad, and looked at his uncle again.

“How come you don’t have the sword your father gave you?” Of course, Kevan was quick to find another thing to chastise him about.

“It’s indeed a fine sword” a Valyrian still sword, I dreamed about having one ever since I was a boy. Uncle Gerion was lost trying to get the one missing in Valyria, and yet here I am, hiding my own “but I don’t think my wife would like to know its source “

His uncle frowned “your lady wife married our family, and the Starks are gone. It’s not a good idea to treat her like a frail child, otherwise that’s all she will ever be.”

“You don’t know her like I do “he saw her cry as if it was her own sister who she never seen, and that girl was clearly not Arya Stark “ and it is thank to them that we got married in part” mostly, it was the boy lord who was a bit too insistent.

“And while it’s admirable that you care for her, she has a duty to our house now “his uncle reminded Jaime, once again “one she’s lucky to have, if I might add. You and I both know that her house is too lowborn”

“She is, but…” but what? “I couldn’t just allow her lord father to force her to drink moon. Alva would have killed herself, and those are my babes she’s carrying “

Kevan sighed “this is something that I would have expected from Tyrion, but I guess you did inherit something from your grandsire”

Jaime knew that he meant his late mother’s father, it was no secret for him. Still, he would rather change the topic “where are Willem and Martyn?” Last, I had heard of them, they were the Riverrun with Tion”

The Blackfish could have sent their heads to King’s Landing, but they also were valuable hostages. But his uncle hadn’t reacted badly to the question, so that made him hopeful that both boys were safe.

“Genna’s boy was in the Twins, Robb Stark had given his custody to her good father “another of his weasel grandchildren wouldn’t truly stand out there “my boys are both safe, your father exchanged them before the Red Wedding.”

Either one of those three or Lancel could have married my lady wife, under other circumstances…but I rather prefer her as my wife “will they join you and Lancel at Darry?”

“I don’t think they want to go back to the Riverlands” of course they wouldn’t, and Jaime couldn’t blame them “They didn’t get the visit of any Tully daughter, their stance wasn’t as comfortable “

“Mine wasn’t perfect either, my dear good brother found I didn’t like beets “ still, it could have been worse “they will always be welcomed at the Rock: I’m sure my lady wife will like them “She misses the boy lord, the poor thing. They are around the same age as dear Alric, so hopefully they will cheer her on.

“Something you have in common with your King, I see “at least that had seemed to give his uncle a better humor “they are staying at Lannisport, for now. I wasn’t sure if getting them here was safe, after what happened with Tyrek”

The poor boy might be on an unmarked grave, maybe next to the real Arya Stark. If there even anything left of his body, some say the stews they serve at the Flea Bottom have meats of dubious origins.

“This isn’t the best place for children” and that included his own. The ones he could call his own, at least.

“Then make sure you get out of here as soon as the seven allow you “ and there he was, again scolding him “and make sure you keep the girl away from her Grace.”

“I don’t think you will have to tell me twice” I saw my sweet sister at the wedding. The way she starred at the tower while the wild fire burnt it down. The green light of the wildfire had bathed the face of the watchers, so they looked like nothing so much as rotting corpses, a pack of gleeful ghouls, but some of the corpses were prettier than others. Even in the baleful glow, Cersei had been beautiful to look upon. She'd stood with one hand on her breast, her lips parted, her green eyes shining. She was crying, Jaime had realized, but whether it was from grief or ecstasy he could not have said.

The sight had filled him with disquiet, reminding him of Aerys Targaryen and the way a burning would arouse him. A king has no secrets from his Kingsguard. Relations between Aerys and his queen had been strained during the last years of his reign. They slept apart and did their best to avoid each other during the waking hours. But whenever Aerys gave a man to the flames, Queen Rhaella would have a visitor in the night. The day he burned his mace-and-dagger Hand, Jaime and Jon Darry had stood at guard outside her bedchamber whilst the king took his pleasure. "You're hurting me," they had heard Rhaella cry through the oaken door. "You're hurting me." In some queer way, that had been worse than Lord Chelsted's screaming. "We are sworn to protect her as well," Jaime had finally been driven to say. "We are," Darry allowed, "but not from him."

It was his little wife’s hand who had given him some comfort and taken his thoughts away from when he had to go away inside. They were warm, something he noticed despite being so close to the wildfire. I told her…was Alva worried about me that night? I couldn’t bare to look at her, but she wouldn’t have left my side unless I had insisted she went to rest.

“It’s just a reminder” his uncle replied “She might not be the best influence, your wife could use better guidance, maybe Genna could straighten her up …and a jealous woman can be dangerous”

What exactly did he mean about straightening her? Jaime would have asked, but something else caught his attention, “Jealous? “Just how much does my nuncle knows? Jaime saw it better to try and change the subject "Will you remain at Darry after the wedding?"

"For a while, mayhaps. Sandor Clegane is raiding along the Trident, it would seem. Your sister wants his head. It may be that he has joined Dondarrion."

“There’s others who can deal with him” Jaime had heard about Saltpans. By now half the realm had heard. The raid had been exceptionally savage. Women raped and mutilated, children butchered in their mothers' arms, half the town put to the torch. His poor wife had nearly cried upon hearing the news.

Jaime kept trying to convince his uncle to return, to be Tommen’s Hand, but to no avail. That had been a week ago, and it still pained him.

He had missed one of the Small Council’s meetings: Jaime had seen it fit to get a gift for his lady wife and had gone to get it commissioned. A pin from her house’s sigil, something that she could have to remember that small northern castle…

“Lady Alva isn’t feeling well “one of his maids had told him, a week later, when he was returning from his duties.He heard her cry, and rushed inside their room

Chapter Text

Alva knew it was a bad idea to keep drinking that much wine, but her good sister hadn’t made things easy.

I very much prefer being with the little Queen and her cousin… she thought as one of her maids held her hair. Little Queen…to think they were the same age.

The Tyrrells were nice. Seeing she didn’t have any companions around, it was Queen Margaery who had invited Alva to join them, and Jaime had given her permission. And seeing her husband had taken to train their nephew, it seemed like a good idea

“It will be wonderful to expend time with my lady aunt” the little Queen had insisted

Alva had even been able to take less lessons in the Sept, as her septa didn’t want to offend the Queen.

She got to know more about Queen Margaery, her family and her cousins, as they sewed together. They had even taught her how to sew a rose. The Knight of flowers would occasionally be around as well, but Alva tried not to pay much attention to him: he was the same age as Dravor, so it made her sad to think that he did have a whole life ahead, while her brother was gone…

Still, she had to say he was nice. He had brown curls and brown eyes, just like Margaery did. Jaime hadn’t thought much of him but did say he had potential to be a great knight, and Alva thought that maybe he would be named the next lord Commander, once they both left for the Rock.  Her husband also said that Renly Baratheon had been quite fond of him, with Ser Loras having joined his guard.

How sad to think he lost such a dear friend but at least he had his brothers, as Queen Margaery told Alva she was the youngest of her siblings, having three older brothers.

“I’m the eldest now” Alva told the girls, once they asked about her family. They seemed about to apologize, so she quickly added one more thing “_I’m thankful to still have my little brother, his name is Alric, and he rules our castle. “

She couldn’t remember what they had told her after it, but the wine made her vomited once again. It was unpleasant, seeing she could barely stand.

“Did you have anything while you were girl Queen Cersei?” Asked Bethany

Alva nodded “wine…” she mumbled

But not so much wine. I have drunk more during feasts…

She didn’t drink any wine when she was with the Tyrells, of course. If they weren’t sewing, sometimes they would read. At other times, they would sing. Alva showed them some of the songs sang in the North, with Alla Tyrell finding Danny Flint a bit too sad. She then played the harp and sang a Rose of Gold, with her singing voice being beautiful (the same couldn’t be said about her other cousin, Megga, but thankfully a bard dressed in all blue, and even with hair dyed blue, offered to sing as soon as she offered to do so )

Elinor Tyrell was the only of the Queen’s cousins, besides the Queen herself, to have flowered. She sat to speak with Alva as Queen Margaery and the rest of the girls played with little Alysanne Bulwer. It was strange to see just how young could a lady-in -waiting be, as that child was barely nine. yet Bran Stark wasn’t even nine when he died. I remember he loved to play come-to-my-castle as well, with my brother Alric…

But thankfully, Elinor had gotten her off her thoughts.

“You are lucky to have married Ser Jaime, he seems to love you dearly “the girl had told her “I’m betrothed myself, but my Alyn has yet to be knight”

She had described her and her other two cousins as roses from lower on the bush.

Alva had been curious about Elinor’s betrothed, and the girl had told her that he was a squire, but a brave one, who had fought in the Battle of the Blackwater. With her favor, he had been fearless…

And Alva wondered if her favor had made Jaime fearless during the tourney where he used it. He said he had. She hoped to see him again during a tourney, no knight would ever be able to unhorse him again. He was now without his lion helmet, however. She wondered if there was a way to get a new one for him.

But she couldn’t remember what else she had talked about with Elinor. Maybe it was about names for the twins, maybe it was about Highgarden, maybe it was about…

“My lady, you are pregnant. Sometimes, even the usual amount of wine might get you easily sick” Alyce told her.

They had been kind enough to pick her up after she had finished her tea with the Queen. strange that Jaime hadn’t told me to go with her…

“I need to make a lion for my good sister” Alva mumbled, after both her maids helped her get up “get my needles, please. And threads of my house’s colors. It will be such a pretty sewing…”

At first, she hadn’t been feeling so bad. She could walk relatively normal but had slowly gotten worse. The good thing is that, because of her pregnancy, she was already used to hold onto someone while walking.

Still, having to vomit while being held had been anything but pleasant. And of course that hadn’t been the end of it.

Her body felt warm. Too warm. She tried to get rid of the clothes herself, her hands nearly ripping them off.

“My lady, wait a minute “Bethany was the strongest of her maids, she held her as Alyce helped Alva to get off her clothes

“I can tell Willow to bring your night gowns “one of them offered, but she wasn’t sure which 

“No…it’s too warm for a nightgown…I don’t want a nightgown…” it was usual for her to not use them as much anymore. The air in King’s landing was too hot for it. Sometimes she would simply sleep naked, and Jaime didn’t mind.

“Would you like some mint tea?” Bethany offered to her, and Alva just nodded.

“Can it be cold?” Cold mint tea. Of course, where had a thing just as cold tea even be thought of? It sounded like a strange idea, but that’s what she wished for

“Just lay for now, my lady “Alyce helped her to get on her bed. Her feet hurt a bit more than usual. Her poor children kicked her hard. Maybe it would be better if she didn’t drink any more wine, starting that night. She just hoped that her good sister would understand.

The tea didn’t do much to help her, but at least she didn’t smell of vomiting anymore, and it did wonders for her breath as well. It even tasted good, despite now being cold. Everything spun around her, she could barely distinguish objects. She wanted to grab her golden crown but didn’t want to risk falling and hurting her children.

I still think we aren’t having a boy and a girl. Maybe I want two girls, I don’t like the idea of naming one of my children Joffrey…

“Sara, can you call my brother?” she asked, before remembering neither of them where there. Then she cried. She wasn’t even sure if she wanted to see Alric or Dravor, but neither would be brought.

Bethany tried to hold her, but she kept crying. And she wasn’t even sure why. Was it that she missed her brothers? Was it that she missed her mother? Was it that she still felt guilty about her lord good father’s death? Was it because the cats in the Red Keep didn’t get petted as much as they deserved?

“Alva is everything all right?” her husband’s voice got her attention.

“Jaime! “She sobbed, and tried to stand from the bed, but Jaime didn’t let her” Alric isn’t here!” Alva hugged her husband and cried.

“He is in your home, remember?” She did, and that’s why she cried again

“I want my brother!” she sobbed, she loved her little brother, but now… “I want Dravor!”

“Who’s Dravor, my lady?” asked…Alyce? She wasn’t sure anymore. They don’t know him, of course. He died almost a year ago.

“Could you perhaps leave me alone with my lady wife?” Jaime asked, and her maid, or maids, left her. She wasn’t sure how many of them were there, but she was sure she didn’t have four of them.

She sobbed again, still hugging her husband, then remembered something important “Jaime! Your sister asked me to make her lion sewing! Like the one I gifted you, but I haven’t started yet!”

“You were with Cersei?” Jaime asked, but his tone didn’t sound precisely happy

“She was helping me to choose my ladies-in-waiting. I wish they could be like the little Queen’s cousins” Alva pouted “Why do I need a Frey lady-in-waiting”

“You don’t need one” Jaime assured her

“But only a traitor would refuse them” her good sister had said so “Jaime, didn’t Cersei have a smaller maid? I don’t think I know the new one “If her husband told her anything, she didn’t hear anything else, too lost on her thoughts, but this time she hadn’t drifted, as had happened to her on other occasions. This time, it was the wine.

“She fired Senelle, yes” Jaime answered “but why…”

“Jaime, Cersei named a new master of ships” she had to tell him “She says Aurane Waters is sure to prove his worth! Isn’t that a bastard’s surname? I’m sure it is…In the North, we use Snow. I knew one, named Jon Snow…”

“She named him…” but she didn’t let her poor husband finish, again.

“And she asked me if I have tried your seed…” she blushed this time, of course “I have had it inside, many times…but how would I even try it?”

Alva wasn’t even sure if he gave her an answer. So many thoughts she had, and the wine made it all but too easy to act on them, but not to focus. She did have enough strength to kiss Jaime’s neck, just like her husband would do with her.

“I want you, Ser” Alva smiled, rubbing his arm. The armor felt cold, unlike his touch would. She tried to kiss him again, being already naked meant they wouldn’t have to lose much time having to get her clothes off, and instead, she would need to help Jaime get rid of his…

He kissed her back, but she closed her eyes as they both kissed. Alva did try to open them, with no success at all. Before she noticed, she had drifted away to sleep.

 Maybe her husband had put a blanket on her, and during her sleep, she moved it away. Or maybe it had been one of her maids, after her husband called for them, but she was unsure.

In her dreams, she could feel her husband softly touching her body. Her breasts where in his hands, and Alva smiled mischievously, knowing just what they were about to do…but still remained asleep. It was a dream, just that. Her husband would have gone for other bits of her if he had wished to wake her….

But then she felt a kiss on her lips. A warm kiss. It was no dream, and she moaned softly, even if the smell of wine was once again in the room.

Alva slowly opened her eyes. It was already late, and only the moon could light the bedroom. She could barely see, her head still hurting, but she could still see the features of the person on top of her. Green eyes, but not any kind of green: the same green you would see cats had. Beautiful locks of golden hair, as if their owner had stolen them from the sun itself. Fair skin, which Alva knew how soft it felt.

“Jaime “she smiled it was her husband, of course…maybe he’d stayed after she fell asleep, protecting her in his arms. Maybe he had been called but returned to see how she and their babes were…

Chapter Text

Just one half of the amount of moon tea needed should have made the girl at least bleed a bit, according to Qyburn. And she had her cook add some to Alva’s tea, by telling the woman that it was just to make it feel like northern tea.

But she hadn’t heard any commotion in the Red Keep. No one rushing to find Pycelle or any other maester. Tommen was still training with Jaime in the backyard, as he had yet to return and Margaery was with her cousins.

it couldn’t be that I was given the moon tea, or else I would have felt it already she would know, given that Robert got her with a child yet, and Jaime himself had found a woman who knew how to brew it. The first effect would be the same pain that a woman felt during her moon blood, following by blood within less than an hour.

And Cersei had not drank much of it that time, it was even less than what she gave her good sister, yet she was spared from giving birth to a child by her husband. That was a year before she had Tommen…

Maybe the wine we drank stopped it from having any effect the girl had barely been able to stand up when her maids had gone for her, having the grace of a newborn fawn when trying to walk it might have worked just fine to tell her to walk to the maids, she would have just fallen.

Maybe her brother had decided to keep the news low, as to not attract any unwanted attention. But Jaime wouldn’t think about it.

Cersei was curious and needed to know just how her little good sister was. Maybe she was bleeding in the bathtub, unable to even call for help, who knew? That would be a beautiful sight, almost as beautiful as the tower of the hand covered in wildfire….

I should go see for myself .It was already pass the hour of the bat, so she would need to make sure no one could easily see her.

But what if Jaime was there? Of course, she could always excuse herself, say she was there to look for him….

And maybe she was. He had been too close to the little idiot for her own liking. Maybe if the girl was resting, she could have her dear brother for herself. After all, it wouldn’t be the first time she and Jaime were together while someone else laid on the same room….

It was easy for her to sneak away in the Red Keep. All those years in it made her know well where to go, and when to do so. And besides, she could brush up on any questions asides.

Cersei simply ordered Dorcas to tell them that she would be unavailable in case anyone went to ask for her, no matter what was the issue.

The stairs were cleaner than ever, yet the girl hadn’t fallen somehow. That still surprised her more than she wanted to admit.

Of course, getting pass the maids who slept in the next room could be an issue, but luck wanted it that the one who she had under her payment was the only one awake.

Unfortunately, it turned out that dear Alva was just resting: the wine she had drank made her sleepy, after having given issues to her maids and Jaime. Such a waste of good air. I will have to tell Qyburn that our little experiment failed.

She just asked to be left alone with the girl, with no one else to know of her presence, as it seemed her brother had retired.

No wonder, who would want to deal with this little idiot?

She would have preferred if Jaime and her where given a room in the White Tower, but her father had insisted that it would not be good for a pregnant woman, and that her brother couldn’t be a member of the Kingsguard if he had married, much less the Kingsguard.

Yet Jaime found a way to at least get more time on it…the girl is a fool if she thinks he loves her.

So instead, they had been given one that didn’t require the girl to go up that many stairs.

Her good sister just rested in the bed, Cersei could hear her snoring. The girl hadn’t drunk that much wine, but while pregnant, the body of a woman could often betray her in ways that they’d never expect.

But for me, every single time I bore one of Jaime’s children, it was a victory. Unfortunately, it might be the same case for this little cunt.

Alva Nielsen was already lost in her dreams

I could just smother her with a pillow right now Cersei realized, almost stumbling as she got closer to the bed even if she woke, she is too frail and drunk to put a fight against me. It would be quick, and after all, Tyrion has reasons to want her and the bastards she carries gone… And if he killed two more of his children, Jaime would stop doubting me as well.

And he was still around the Red Keep, she was sure of it. She was sure to have seen the girl wear the hairnet that the Imp had gotten for her. She hadn’t used it again, but Cersei was sure it was the same one she used on her father’s funeral. Maybe he had done it to torment Cersei, to let her know he was still there.

Maybe he truly does want to kill her after all, but I would rather do it myself in her case….

The old High Septon hadn’t truly died in his sleep, of course. She had ways of dealing with those who were an issue, such as that traitor who had been friends of the little monster. She gave him a high birth wife, and he paid her in such a way, even naming his lady wife’s bastard after Tyrion. She would make sure that they were all gone, of course, and for the knight of the Blackwater, it included talking with his good brother and good sister.

But for the northern girl? The issue was more complicated than she had expected. Maybe I should have given her two cups instead of one even then. It was strange that her body hadn’t shown any symptoms of it, or maybe she was too drunk to even notice.

Cersei sat on the bed next to the girl, who had a dumb smile on her face. She is dreaming about my brother, no doubt. If only she knew he only ever wishes for me.

She slept naked. Wine could make a person feel too hot, and being a northern, she must have felt it even more.

The light in the room was dim, but curiosity took the better of Cersei. After all, Jaime had claimed that the girl had reminded him of her…

Her breasts were full of freckles, just like that dumb face of her. Not big enough, but the pregnancy had surely made them bloom even further. Her cunt was covered by pale blonde hair just like her head, and she had her arms around her belly.

Jaime claims she looked just like he when he bedded her. And that, of course, was an insult to her this dumb creature…she is nothing like me.

She still had her nipples too pinkish, which showed how a babe had never suckled from them. And if I pick a pillow, they will stay just like that.

She will have what should be mine: Jaime, and the Rock. But she hadn’t been born male, the gods feared what greatness she could have brought to House Lannister.

Unlike Jaime, I wouldn’t have bedded this idiot girl. She looked nothing like her. She looked nothing like Jaime. From behind? My brother has the most idiotic ideas…

Just what pleasure could he get from her?  The only thing worth from her could be that she had never been touched by a man before her brother got to their castle. That’s the only things that dumb girls like her had.

I would have expected it from Robert. Young, half her age, and stupid. It would have been much easier to get rid of her and the bastards in that case.

All because the girl had what all women did: two breasts, and a cunt. They were the best gifts that the Seven had given to women, men truly lose themselves over them…

Cersei cupped one of the girl’s breast. Softly at first, hardly touching, feeling the warmth of it beneath her palm, the skin as smooth as satin. With her own pregnancies, she could still remember how sensitive they had been. It had even made her have to reject Jaime’s advances, as by that time she wouldn’t be able to truly hide away while he bedded her.

 She gave it a gentle squeeze, then ran her thumbnail lightly across the small, pinkish nipple, back and forth and back and forth until she felt it stiffen.

The girl was still asleep, but Cersei heard soft moans from her mouth. It must have felt good…

A shame she looks nothing like, maybe the bitch could have been a good bed mate if she did.

That, at least, meant she wasn’t the queen of the prophecy she had heard when she was just a child herself. She is younger than me, yes, but not more beautiful, and of course, not even a queen…

She wondered what would happen if she were to pinch the nipple now, pulling on it hard, twisting it between her fingers, but the last thing she wished was for the dumb child to wake up.

If I was a man, this is how women would serve me. Naked, moaning under her touch…And the girl under her was the Lady of the Rock. The lady of her House. Something that should be hers, but she now had the Iron Throne. She was the Queen…

And yet, this girl has my brother. There was no resemblance between them, at least not one that she could see. He claimed that from behind, it was easier to find it, but I don’t have the strength to turn her over.

But Jaime would still have needed to kiss her, didn’t he? Her brother always reached for her lips when they were together. And the girl had so far been disappointing in everything else, why would those lips, who always spouted no sense, bee any different?

Still, curiosity got the better of her.  Cersei leaned and kissed the filthy creature. Her lips were warm, just like the rest of her body.

That was not a good sign, much less so when the girl opened her eyes

Soft blue eyes stared at her. Cersei wondered how fast she could reach for the pillow…

“Jaime…” the girl said softly and smiled, looking to return the kiss.

It’s the wine and the darkness. She and her brother used to change places, back when both were children and only their mother could tell them apart: but that was before her body had flowered. Since then, no one had ever confused the two…

Save for the dumb child who was now kissing her lips, but Cersei decided to allow it. Of course, she made her best to keep the girl’s hand off her body, least she found what made her and Jaime stand apart.

For a moment, she wondered how things would have been if Jaime had been born a girl as well: they were truly a soul split in two, but in such a case, it was her who would have ruled the Rock.

She kept kissing her dear good sister, moving one of her hands down her body…

The faint moon showed that, even down between her legs, the girl had yellow hair. Not quite the color of Cersei’s, of course, but nearly close enough…and for a moment, she did come to understand Jaime.

“Jaime, please…” Alva moaned. Cersei could feel the hair all sopping wet, just as Jaime had made her feel, while his had been coarse and dry.

But it was no good. She could not feel it, whatever Jaime felt when he took her and the stupid girl. There wasn’t any pleasure in for her, only for the girl. Her nipples were hard, and her sex all wet. Still, she slid a finger inside the girl, then another, and moved them in an out. Jaime thought you were me, but once he spent himself inside of you, he remembered that I was right here.

She slipped in a third finger in the northern’s bitch cunt. My brother fucked you, but only to have me with him. Even in the North, he never stopped loving me…but just why, did he think you could compare to me?

Alva gave a shudder. She gasped at some words that Cersei couldn’t understand, then shuddered again and arched her back and screamed.

I wonder if she will scream like that when she births the bastards the queen thought. For a moment she let herself imagine that her fingers were a maester’s instruments, ripping the northern cunt apart to save the children who mattered more than she would ever do so. Such babes never live for long, maybe they will be heirs to the Rock for a day or two…

But it still didn’t feel good.

It had never been any good with anyone but Jaime.

And still, for Jaime the girl had been good enough to replace her…

She slid her fingers out, and the girl pulled her for a kiss once again. This time she just wanted to leave her, but her grip was surprisingly strong, as those blue eyes lovely stared at her.

If I was to push her, she might think it is my brother who rejected her embrace. He wasn’t there in the first place, maybe Jaime had finally come into his senses and tried to seek Cersei to admit he had been wrong.

But she allowed it. The child’s kisses were not as clumsy as her, possibly from all those times that Jaime wished to pretend he was kissing her. Not the best substitute, but unlike her cunt, just his hand wouldn’t have sufficed for it.

The wine the girl had drunk made her slowly fall back into slumber. It wasn’t quite the first time that she had to thank alcohol for getting rid of an unwanted embrace, but this time, she was allowed to simply leave the bedchamber.

Chapter Text

Jaime had never seen his lady wife drunk, but he had been thankful that it was only the alcohol that was making her cry. Hearing it was about the boy lord, however….

She still misses him, it was clear. His wife never wanted to leave, and he could hardly blame her. Even worse, she forgot that her older brother was dead.

I killed him myself but that he couldn’t tell her.

He had worried that maybe she’d drift away once again. Seeing that nothing he’d tried worked last time, it was something he would rather avoid.

It turned out that Alva had been with Cersei that afternoon. Jaime frowned: he knew better than leaving her alone with his sister. She had spent most of her time with the Tyrrel girls and looked rather happy with them, which helped her to adapt better to the south. And yet there she was, in his arms, crying her eyes out while drunk.

Even the news of her majesty appointing the Driftmark bastard as the Master of ships hadn’t been as worrying as knowing she had given his wife wine. Alva wasn’t one to drink much, she preferred cider in the first place. So, it wasn’t hard to imagine how she’d ended like that.

I had was absent from that meeting, all to commission something for the little owl her nameday was close to arriving, it would be fair to get her something, try and sheer her now that she was there….

Cersei has been drinking much more lately. He’d seen it for the first time at the wedding, having lost count of how many times she’d served herself a cup.

He’d seen it after looking at her spend her time with the myrish woman, the old companion of Queen Margaery and the wife of lord Merryweather.

And his wife was drunk in his arms but still reached to kiss him.

Jaime didn’t try to push back: he kissed her back just as well, his hands trailing down her body. It wouldn’t have done any harm to bed her….

Had Alva not fallen sleep right as she kissed him. Jaime had instead made sure to keep her in their bed, but didn’t put any blankets on her: she looked to be feeling to warm, judging by her lack of clothing.

He was about to go to sleep, but unfortunately, being the lord Commander meant that he still had responsibilities that could keep him awake at any hour.

A raven had arrived, and Grand Maester Pycelle sent for him. He wished it could have been ignored, had he not been told it was from Dorne. He rushed to see what the matter was, as his sister was already slept.

Taking the Red Viper’s bastards into custody had done nothing to calm Sunspear. Their uncle, Prince Doran, was asking for the justice he was promised, claiming that it was his only hope of calming the waters.

Cersei will have to send proof of Ser Gregor’s demise. The man had confessed what half of the realm knew, right before killing Oberyn Martell. He had been told some details by the rest of his white brothers and assure that it was better that his wife hadn’t been present for such a fight.

Had I arrived earlier, none of that would have been necessary. He knew it very well I would have dealt with Ser Gregor, not that it would have been necessary: he wouldn’t have dare to harm me, much less to kill me, and Tyrion would have walked a free man…

And he wouldn’t have needed to confess his secret. He wouldn’t have needed to ruin his relationship with Tyrion.

“she's been fucking Lancel and Osmund Kettleblack and Moon Boy for all I know.” His voice just wouldn’t leave him, even with such a lie…

He and the old man discussed how should they inform his sister in the council meeting the next morning.

I wasn’t made for this…

He wanted to go back with his wife, but another raven arrived soon enough.

Of course, before he could return, another raven arrived. A letter from the Riverlands, this time from the Freys, as if he needed more reasons to dislike them.

And once they were done with that letter, another raven had arrived. This one was from Vale. And, even worse, it wasn’t truly a letter: it was a declaration, signed at Runestone by Bronze Yohn Royce, Lady Waynwood, Lords Hunter, Redfort, and Belmore, and Symond Templeton, the Knight of Ninestars.  

Reading it took longer than the first two letters. The so-called Lord Declarants were massing men below the Eyrie, meaning to remove Littlefinger as Lord Protector of the Vale, forcibly if need be.

He’d decided to excuse himself from the council the next day and did have an excuse for it….

And just before morning arrived, so did another bird, this time from the North. By that Jaime, had enough and had told Pycelle to go wake her Grace for that. When word came from the north that Stannis had turned up again at the Wall, instead of remaining in Dragonstone as had been hoped, her fury had been fearful to behold.

Part of him wondered if maybe it was Alric who was sending a raven, but he dismissed the idea.

It couldn’t have been from my good brother, he doesn’t have ravens from King’s Landing. He had reasoned.

His wife was still asleep, just like he had left her. He didn’t want to awake her, knowing how much her head would hurt…

But he still wanted to know how their children were doing. He sat by her side on the bed, putting his hand against her belly, only for the girl to wake up and smile at him

“Good morning, Jaime “she mumbled. He reached to kiss her forehead

“How are you feeling?” he asked, still worried about her state

“My head hurts a bit” she mumbled, but slowly rose to sit down “but I can manage “

“I would still prefer if you rested “pregnant and having been drunk the last night meant she’d be even more tired.

“Only if you stay with me…” he wished he could: Jaime still felt tired, and would be more than fine with just resting, but he still had his duties of training the King

Still…” just for a moment, my lady”

The girl never seemed to be bothered by his armor, even gladly resting her head against it. How she did it was beyond him, but he didn’t really mind

“I think I’d like if we continued…” he heard his wife mumble with a merry voice.

“We barely even started “but of course, he wouldn’t mind…

“That’s not quite what I recall “the girl smiled and kissed his lips

“What do you recall?” He asked, not quite getting what his little wife was talking about

The girl tilted her head like an owl _

 just like her house’s sigil…_

“You don’t remember? You woke me up by kissing me…” she answered while gently stroking his face “I felt your fingers inside, we kissed but I think I felt asleep before we could continue…”

It made no sense: she sounded sure of it, and while he had kissed her sweet lips earlier, it hadn’t gone beyond that.

“I don’t recall it “but he’d be more than glad to make it real

“Oh, I must have dream it… “she sighed.

“Maybe you do need to rest “a dream would explain it all

“It still felt too real…” Alva insisted

“Well, if the gods are good, I will make sure it becomes real tonight “

———————————————————————

He had to talk with his sweet sister about the matter of allowing his wife to drink. The girl had claimed to feel better, but she hadn’t been able to go with the Little Queen this time:

Margaery and her cousins were fond of hawking. A popular activity that wasn’t truly done in the north, as the climate there didn’t allow it. While she’d been curious, her pregnancy wouldn’t let her simply go and learn the basics. That would have to wait until she’d given birth.

Hopefully, winter won’t have arrived, and she will be able to join her lady niece.

Niece…and good daughter, but it was best if she didn’t know that. At least not yet.

Just how would she react, if I was to tell her the truth?  The girl had been clear that she didn’t believe those lies about him, but they were far from lies…

Cersei had not been happy about the news. He hadn’t expected otherwise. But his wife….

Will she cry and be angry, if it turns out that what was said about us was true? Will she still refuse to believe it?

He wanted the world to know, had always done so. But now, he wondered if maybe it was better off as a secret.

Cersei was in her solar in Maegor's Holdfast, with Lord Merryweather's dark-haired Myrish wife.

"Oh, look," purred Lady Merryweather, "your brave brother has returned, Your Grace."

"And by himself, what a sight" The queen was in her cups, Jaime realized. Of course, Cersei had a flagon of wine to hand. He misliked that, but these days he seemed to mislike everything his sister did. “What brings you here, Lord Commander?”

"Might we have a private word? “He spoke.

Lady Merryweather took her leave as well, kissing the queen on both cheeks. "Shall I return for supper, Your Grace?"

"I shall be very cross with you if you do not."

Jaime could not help but note the way the Myrish woman moved her hips as she walked. Every step was a seduction. With the Kettleblacks, Qyburn and lady Merryweather, it could be argued that Cersei kept a queer menagerie these days. When the door closed behind her, he cleared his throat and said, "Did you give wine to my wife?”

"Of course, I did" Cersei didn’t even bother to defend herself “your wife needed it, talking about ladies-in-waiting wasn’t something she enjoyed”

"Was it necessary to get her so drunk?” It wasn’t the wine that bothered him, truly. It was the fact that she had gotten to such a state.

“I did not give her that much wine” Cersei complained “but I didn’t know that she had a weak resistance to it”

“She is pregnant, her body can’t handle wine like it used to do” he reminded her “Alva was fine with Queen Margaery, and- “

“Then she should have told me she did not want anymore wine” Cersei said as she served herself another cup “I had a good casket, and it would have been rude not to offer it to the Lady of Casterly Rock”

“You know she can’t refuse her Queen” Jaime reminded his sister

“Is she alright?” Cersei asked

He sighed “she is”

“Then why are you complaining?” his sister asked again as she took a sip of her drink “If she had hurt herself or your children, I would understand. But if she simply got drunk, I don’t see any issue. She is not the first girl to get tipsy at court. “

“The wine made her forget she was even here, or that I killed her brother “Jaime had to try and reason with his sister. “The last thing I need is for her to drift away for the seven know how long”

“You are exaggerating, brother” Cersei insisted “Your wife was all right and she also enjoyed some tea with me, I still do not see your point.”

“You weren’t with her when it happened “he tried to insist “It would do neither of us any good, just know that”

“All right, Lord Jaime, I will make sure not to kindly offer your wife any wine if she spends her time with me again” he just hoped it didn’t again in the first place “And what do you mean that you killed her brother?”

Of course, the boy was of a minor house, his fate hadn’t been fully known in King’s Landing “I wanted to get Robb Stark, and cut through his men…do not bring it up to Alva”

“I can’t believe she married the man who killed her own brother “you wanted me to kill Tyrion

But he did not want to discuss that matter “isn’t the small council about to gather?”

“They shall wait for both of us as much as I please” she finished her cup of wine slowly, simply enjoying the flavor “Will you join us this time, Lord Commander?”

“I unfortunately can’t” he said “there is a matter that I must attend…you might want to order for a casket or two to keep you company during the meeting”

Jaime left his sister, as he still had to ride outside the Red Keep for his wife’s present.

Chapter Text

Part of being pregnant meant that she could not move much, and even less going outside. So, when the little Queen and her cousins wanted to do so, she would have to stay inside the Red Keep.

It would mean going back again with the lessons with her Septa. Gods, at least it was better than having tea with her good sister, but Alva wasn’t precisely fond of it.

She could just thank that her head had didn’t hurt so much as it did in the morning.

I had never drunk so much wine… even thinking of drinking more of it made her feel sick by now. So, she was thankful for the mint tea in her breakfast, which according to Bethany, was good to help her feel better, and it had a good match with her porridge.

I will admit that my good sister served rather good tea, it had a particular sweet taste, nothing that she’d ever tasted before. Tyroshi Pear tea…she wondered if she could…

I can she remembered, as she took another sip from her tea, I’m a Lannister now.

She couldn’t remember much of what had happened after getting drunk. Alva could only recall that she was with Jaime, but he insisted that it hadn’t been him

But I felt his kisses soft and warm, Alva had been eager to kiss him when he had woken her up.

There was barely any light in the bedroom, but just the moon made it so clear that it was Jaime who was with her.

Strange, I don’t recall hearing him talk to me or call her in the first place, all she could remember was that they laid together…

She blushed while eating her breakfast just why am I having these thoughts right now?

It was a shame that Jaime couldn’t be with her for breakfast. Alva knew her husband did have responsibilities, but she worried that he wouldn’t rest enough. After all, a King needed a well rest lord commander

But she kept the thoughts to herself as she was served her second breakfast dish

“Fish? “So strange if she was honest. It was crisp fried at that. Even during the times she had stayed at White Harbour, the Manderlys had never served any seafood for breakfast

“it’s good for the babes, m’lady” Alyce explained “my mother would always make sure to eat a lot of fish whenever she was pregnant, and all of my siblings grew up to be healthy “

“Oh, well then, I shall eat it “how much food did the Red Keep have? She was sure one week worth of theirs could feed her castle and maybe their neighbors for a month.

Even when she was eating for herself and her babes now, it was simply too much food for her. She had to decline the next dish, not even bothering to truly see it.

“Shall we call your septa, m’lady?”   Asked

Alva should say yes, but at the moment…” I think I would prefer to stay here for today. Please apologize for me “

I wasn’t truly feeling well last night and even this morning, after all. Hopefully she can excuse me just for this bit.

It was truly a shame that the little Queen wasn’t there, for she had left with her ladies-in-waiting to go hawking. Her cousins had promised her to teach her how to hawk once she gave birth, and she wondered just how it was done.

I have never owned a hawk, but maybe an owl would suit me better? Do they even use owls in the first place? It was her family’s sigil after all, and owls were great hunters. The smallfolk liked to have them on their farms, as they got rid of rats and mice.

Like cats, but less cute, except for that old tomcat…well, he did have a nice side, Jaime showed her, but that cat wasn’t her favorite one. They just stopped hating each other that much for the moment.

Maybe she could catch ducks…if she could even go for it. Alva felt her heart was too weak to get creatures killed. Dravor had made fun of her when he she went with him and Alric to fish once, only for her to get upset and demand they release the fish…

Her poor brothers. She wondered what they would think of King’s Landing. Alric would definitely enjoy sparring with other boys her age or inquire about the curious Prince from the Summer Islands that was hosted in the Red Keep.

I wonder how Alric is doing. He never liked to be left alone. I would sleep on his bed when he was little to calm him down, and even Dravor would if he was particularly difficult.

 Dravor might have thought that the Tyrell girls were beautiful. He would have also enjoyed sparring with knights, or maybe he wouldn’t want to leave her side until the babies were born

Last night I forgot he was gone… she would never see him again, Alva knew it. Only until the gods decided it was her time to go. She could only hope he was happy, wherever he went

“M’lady?” One of her maids shook her shoulder gently “is everything alright?”

She had drifted off again. You are always in the clouds, freckles. Have you married the Kingslayer in your mind yet?

“Oh, yes…” gods, she needed to busy herself with something else and soon, least she began to think of her brothers too much.

My good sister asked me to board her a lion I wasn’t precisely easy, it would take her a couple of weeks if she was lucky. Maybe I should start

She had one of her maids fetch her the right materials. King’s Landing offered better quality in everything, which even included needles and strings, and she hadn’t been feeling as tired as she had at the beginning of the pregnancy, so she had faith that it would be as good as the wolf one she had been working on.

I should invite Arya to dine with us one of these days’ poor girl, she might be scared. Alva wondered why she had to be kept by herself…then recalled that Sansa had disappeared while the little one stayed. Having both girls together could have meant losing both hostages.

A cruel way of thinking…but she could understand it.

Yet…her eyes…I saw her so many times and they were grey. Gods be good, my memory is so bad. How can I remember she had grey eyes, when they’ve always been brown? It is her bastard brother who has them grey.

“m’lady, be careful “Willow warned her “you could pinch yourself “

Oh gods, she still hadn’t gotten the string past the needle “sorry, I was just thinking…” she tried it once again, but found it too hard, strangely…” the others take me, have my fingers always been this big?”

“You are pregnant, m’lady. Sometimes it might happen, “Bethany explained “I can do it for you”

With not much choice, she allowed the older maid to help her.

I can sew with the little Queen and her cousins later too she had decided, maybe they’d teach her how to sew roses as she always saw them do.

Despite her initial troubles with the needle, she could at least keep sewing normally. The Stark wolf had taken her a couple of days, and for the lion, she could expect maybe a week or two.

It was still somewhat easier than her own family’s sigil. Her mother had taught her to sew, and Alva hadn’t been happy to see how ugly her first ones had come off.

Mother promised to teach me her trick for the owl, but she got sick before she could and the fever had meant Alva and her brothers couldn’t go see her. She did eventually manage to learn how to do the owl, with her maids’ help, guiding her with the help of her pin.

She felt a kick. Her little lions were awake again I think my children don’t enjoy seeing as much as I do

Maybe she had two boys, who would be as handsome and brave as their lord father. But I don’t think Joffrey would be a nice name for one of them…Jaime wants to use the name Gerion, it’s a nicer one, but with lord good father gone, it would be appropriate to name at least one after him

Her nephew was the king, and Tommen was nice. She wondered if maybe the Queen would like it if she named one twin after him, but Alva had already promised that one would have the name Joffrey.

Should I think so low about a boy who I didn’t even get to meet? Alva wondered as she kept working on the lion. Maybe it wasn’t his idea to such those   words on the letter, maybe maybe it had been her good sister?

Then again, he had lord Stark’s head cut off.

 I’m a Lannister myself now…A northern Lannister.

Crimson and gold were Lannister colors, but the lion’s mane and claws had a different shade of gold, closer to yellow. The one I made for Jaime didn’t have all the right colors…we didn’t have a different one for the mane. I wonder if he liked it, even if I didn’t get it well.

The lion faced left. The Starks also had their wolf running to the left, for it was only bastards who had their sigils facing right. Sometimes, men would have their own personal sigils. The Targaryens Kings of old would often change their red dragon to whichever color their dragon was.  From what she had heard, King Robb had a curious one, only the head of the warg wolf was shown in his.

King Robb, because while I was in the North, he was my king. He still is the king of those who live there.

“Have any of you had spoken to lady Arya Stark?” Alva asked, as she kept working on the lion

“Lady Arya?” Bethany asked. Alva was still sitting on one of the chairs, not able to see them

“No, m’lady” Willow answered “I’m afraid none of us have spoken to her”

“I did see where while her father was still King” Alyce spoke “she was quite….”

“Wild?” Alva finished the sentence. They clearly didn’t want to speak ill of her “It’s such a luck that King’s Landing helped her to calm down”

Poor girl, losing her father, then the news about all her family…at least Jon Snow is safe in the Wall.

Someone called at the door, and one of her maids went to open it. Alva kept working with her lion….

“I thought you were working on the wolf?” Jaime asked. She smiled and left her needle work to stand and hug him

“Lord Commander” Alva greeted her husband, but to her surprise, he wasn’t on his Kingsguard armor. Jaime instead was in crimson red clothes, which had the golden lion in them. They made his beautiful golden locks shine even more.

“I’m just your lord husband today, Alva” Jaime kissed her forehead, and she blushed.

“My lord husband…” she corrected herself.

“I wouldn’t quite expect you to keep blushing, given that you are already carrying my babes “Jaime said, making her giggle.

“I can’t avoid it, Jaime” she played with his hair, taking one of his curls with one of her fingers “you are just so handsome….”

“Why thank you, my lady” her husband easily picked her and carried Alva to their room before carefully setting her on their bed.

Alva kissed his cheek “how come you aren’t in your armor?” she asked.

“Well, I wasn’t precisely acting as the lord Commander today “Jaime answered. He took a small box out of his pocket “for you, my little wife.”

Alva carefully picked it. It was small and soft, with lions drawn around it “Jaime…”

“Open it” she felt his green eyes on her and slowly did as he asked.

There was a collar inside, more beautiful than any she’d ever seen. It had a single pearl, carved to look like an owl’s head. It had yellow eyes made out of gold and the pupils had little onyxes in them. On the side, it had two little lion cubs that looked like they were resting on the chain, with ruby red eyes on them.

This is worth more than my entire castle.

And yet

Jaime had gotten it for her. Her husband had gotten it for her.

All she could do was kiss her husband “I love it”

Chapter Text

Her good sister had been more annoying than usual for the past fortnight. The girl kept inquiring about a helmet that Jaime used to have, the lion head one he had lost on the Hand’s Tourney, whenever their paths would cross.

Cersei also had to deal with the giggles of Margaery’s cousins whenever the girl made her questions, no doubt she was planning something as stupid as getting one done for her brother to replace him.

An attempt to woo him, no doubt her brother had also given the girl a gift in the form of a collar. One quite possibly was even more expensive than the stupid child’s whole castle and had the gall to miss one of her small council’s sessions for it.

I’m the only one in the family who still has a brain, her brother had lost his. He had forgotten that he served the realm, their sons.

All for that girl.

As much as Cersei hated it, at least good things could be said about Margaery Tyrrel. The girl was smart, knew how to fake her smiles, how to take her sorrow, how to fool everyone into thinking that she was still a virgin after having married Renly Baratheon, and kept trying to lure Tommen away from her.

Her latest ploy of it involved three black kittens. Three bad omens that no one wanted to recognize, least of all Jaime. If it was for her, she would have the creatures drowned, but Tommen had unfortunately grown too fond of them.

Just another proof of how cunning the little Queen was. She was a threat, one that Cersei had to deal with soon enough, and she had the means to do so.

Alva Nielsen? That girl was stupid, plain and simple as that. No thoughts were on that head of hers, good or bad. As much as she wanted to get rid of her, trying that much was a waste of time

It was pitiful, truly.

The girl couldn’t scheme. She had no family who could actually be of help. Cersei had thought of getting rid of her little brother, but Ned Stark’s bastard was much more of an issue to lose time with another owl. Besides, once the Boltons had consolidated their power, she could always order them to look for an excuse to do so.

Cersei doubted that the girl would even care.

I wondered so much who had killed her older brother, and he was right in front of me the whole time It had come as a surprise to find out it had been Jaime himself who had done the deed. Now it was no wonder as to why her lord father had easily tried to give her away in exchange of Sansa Stark: the man himself knew the girl was worthless. Cersei had seen the letter signed by him. The monster had been dumbing enough to ask their own father if he would agree to an exchange.

But he was wrong, of course. Tyrion was a fool. Lord Tywin would have Jaime, the girl, and their children. An exchange like that showed how desperate Robb Stark was.

Children aren’t fit to play war he was now dead, and she couldn’t care less about what had the Freys done to his body.

There were rumors, of course. Rumors that Qyburn’s spies had gathered. It was said that his dire wolf, which had been killed as well, had its head cut off just like his owner, and it was then sawn to his body.

It made sense, Cersei knew. When news of the wedding had arrived, Joffrey had asked for Robb Stark’s head, for he wanted to have Sansa kiss it.

He knew how to be a king. Made sure that no one ever dared to go against him again, but his weak-minded council had been against it, and Cersei had been forced to try and make it look like it was a joke by her boy.

Does my good sister know? Cersei asked herself. The girl was northern, and she knew she had been in tears after seeing the steward’s daughter. I bet she would be devastated if she knew about it. There are so many things I wish to tell her…

“Alva showed us the lion she sew for you, your Grace” Margaery told her one afternoon. As usual, the girl had tried to see if she would allow Tommen to accompany her and her companions to King’s Landing. Of course, Cersei had refused to do so “She worked really hard on it, I know you will like it as much as I did”

“Oh, I am thankful to have such a talented good sister” Cersei faked her best smile. Gods be good, she will want to hand me her gift no doubt.

Being alone with the girl would be a good chance to repeat the moon tea experiment, see if an increased amount of it a better effect could have, but Qyburn warned her against it.

With even that amount, the traces would be too easy for any maester to see. And Jaime wouldn’t want to use Qyburn’s services. Even Pycelle, always eager to serve her father, but not her, would be able to know she had been given Moon Tea. Cersei could always try and blame it on Tyrion, or Varys, who no doubt had their own agents around. She could also try and point to the Tyrells, but she was skeptical that Jaime would believe her words. So, that would not be a possibility.

He does not want me to meet with my sweet, good sister. Jaime had made it clear, and more so, demanding that she do not give her any alcohol. But how could she sit near the girl without a casket of wine by her side?

At least, Cersei could count with Taena’s company. And just for Jaime not to pester her, she would insist that one of the girl’s servants stay with them as well. But she had other duties to attend first, not that her brother would understand, so she would leave meeting.

It had not been an easy day. She had to make Tommen beat her whip boy after he dared to disobey her, all at Margaery’s insistence. The rule was hers, not theirs; Cersei did not mean to give it up until Tommen came of age. I waited, so can he. She had waited half my life. She had played the dutiful daughter, the blushing bride, the pliant wife. If Margaery Tyrell thinks to cheat me of my hour in the sun, she had bloody well thought again.

She spent the rest of the morning with Lord Gyles and his ledger books, listening to him cough about stars and stags and dragons. After him Lord Waters arrived, to report that the first three dromonds were nearing completion and begging for more gold to finish them in the splendor they deserved. The queen was pleased to grant him his request, despite Pycelle’s protests. The man complained about the men that Aurane chose to captain her new dromonds. He found them too young, and lacking experience. "Seasoned men of proven loyalty," he called them. Cersei called them old and sided with Lord Waters. "The only thing these captains proved was that they know how to swim," she'd said. "No mother should outlive her children, and no captain should outlive his ship." Pycelle had taken the rebuke with ill grace.

Moon Boy capered as she took her midday meal with members of the merchant guilds and listened to them complain about sparrows wandering the streets and sleeping in the squares. I may need to use the gold cloaks to chase these sparrows from the city.

Least eventful news had reached the court. Stannis’ smuggler had been hanged by Lord Manderly, as verified by their Frey envoys, meaning he could get his heir back…once he paid gold for his rescue, which was. The daughter of the Knight of Spottswood had been suddenly betrothed to Lord Estermont, the grandsire of Robert. Part of her pitied the woman, but she had no doubt that a bastard in her belly would explain such a match. What should have been done with my good sister?

 News about slave revolt in Meereen had been brought up by sailors, drunk enough to confuse harpies with dragons, but as to why should she care about it, Cersei had no idea.

At night…the dinner with the Stokeworths had proven to be fruitful. Cersei slept well, knowing that she would soon not have to deal with Bronn, and that she had found a way to deal with Margaery. She hoped that the Blue Bard was smart enough to give Qyburn the right information.

She called for Alva Nielsen, inviting her once again for an afternoon tea. Taena and Tommen would be there as well.

“Will two caskets be enough to deal with the girl, your Grace?” the myrish woman asked.

“Not even all of the Arbor’s wine could be enough” Cersei answered “but it’s certainly better than nothing at all”

Taene giggled, by the gods, Cersei was glad to have her there.

Tommen was distracted playing with his cats. Ser Pounce, Boots and Lady Whiskers is how the boy had named them. The toy that Dorcas had made for them proved to be an easy way to keep both him and the kittens busy.

Her good sister hadn’t been able to go with Margaery either. Unlike Tommen, to her disgrace, Cersei admitted that the girl was better at obeying orders. Too weak willed to do anything, that’s how women tended to be.

She smiled and greeted her, Taena and Tommen. Cersei couldn’t recognize who was the servant with the girl, who was a black-haired woman. Not the one who’s been helping me.

And of course, she had the collar that Jaime had gifted her. A waste of gold

The tea was served, and the three women drank it, while Tommen was still busy playing with his cats. Cersei sat between the Myrish woman and her good sister.

“Your Grace, I hope my present is of your liking “the girl handed her the needled work she had worked on.

“Oh Lady Lannister, it’s truly beautiful” Taena smiled.

It wasn’t atrocious, Cersei had to admit. Truth to be told, she had never been precisely good with needle work, something that Myrcella had also inherited from her. Back in their childhood, whenever she would switch with Jaime, her Septa would praise how good her needleworks were, only to be disappointed when it was truly her work.

But that was a task meant to make the daughters of lords feel useful. They had seamstress available after all. Even if their work was good, it was utterly pointless.

“Yes, good sister, you did a good job” Cersei, once again, faked her best smile.

Before the girl could answer, one of Tommen’s kittens jumped on her lap and meowed. The stupid child just giggled and petted it.

“Tommen, please control your kittens” Cersei reprimanded him “do not let them pester your lady Aunt.” Stop embarrassing me.

“Sorry, mother” Tommen went to retrieve it. He knew better than to upset her once again

“It’s alright, your Grace” the bitch kept petting the cat “I’m fond of cats as well…were they a gift by your lady wife?” she asked the boy.

Just what she needed. The girl might be the same age as Margaery, but she acted like a child just like Tommen.

Her son nodded “They are! Margaery told me she knew I like kittens.” The two others were fighting over which one would get a mouse they had cornered “That one is Ser Pounce.”

“Nice to meet you, ser Pounce” her good sister said. Was she pretending to speak with the cat? The kitten did stare at her, before looking at Tommen at meowing “he is such a beautiful gift from Margaery”

“Wives need to keep their husbands’ attention, even if it is through the use of a kitty” Taena told the girl. Cersei wondered if she would be able to understand what the Myrish woman truly meant, but through her awkward smile and nod, it was clear that she hadn’t. Cersei had to make an effort not to laugh, which seemed to please Taena.

“I would like to get Margaery a gift too” Tommen told the girl as he grabbed his kitten from her lap.

“That’s very sweet, your Majesty” she sounded as dumb as ever “what would you like to get her?”

“I don’t know yet” he frowned

Cersei should have known her son would come up with such an answer.

“But…” her son paused, as if he was about to share a secret no one else could hear “maybe I could crown her Queen of love and Beauty in a tourney!” Tommen said it was a bit too cheerful for her likeness.

“You would like to joust, your Majesty?” of course, the little bitch had seen him practice with Loras Tyrrell.

“Yes, I would! Mother said it’s in my blood, just like my father’s!” Taena thankfully served her more wine after that comment from her son. Cersei’s tongue had slipped on an unfortunate time, but once again, she thanked that Alva Nielsen was no Margaery Tyrell.

“I’m sure she would love it, your Majesty! “The girl assured him “your lord uncle crowned me his Queen-of-Love- and. Beauty once as well!”

Cersei was thankful that she was no longer drinking wine, as otherwise, she would have shocked on it. Alva Nielsen told Tommen the story of how she met Jaime, and Cersei simply looked at her.

Queen you shall be . . . until there comes another, younger and more beautiful, to cast you down and take all that you hold dear.

The girl had taken Jaime from her. She was younger, but…

More beautiful? That’s the part she knew was untrue. Even naked, the girl was not anything to be amazed by. She had touched her but won little of it.

And yet, she had been enough to tempt her brother.

I can’t send for Moon Tea right now.

The girl’s servant was gone, as Cersei’s maids needed help with the cookies.

Her son went back to his kittens when Alva finished the story.

“Your Grace…” the girl called for her

“What is it, good sister?” Cersei didn’t even try to hide the coldness in her voice. The girl hesitated before answering

“I also made a needlework for Arya” she said “The Stark’s dire wolf”

Can I hang her for treason?

“I would like to give it to her, with your permission” Alva finished

“If you can find her grave, you are free to do so” Cersei answered as she drank another cup of her win

The girl’s eyes went wide as that of an owl, her head tilting in confusion “Pardon me?”

Taena was silent, of course she didn’t know either. Tommen was busy playing with his cats, one ran under the table.

“You are my lady good sister, so I suppose telling you won’t hurt” Cersei smiled, not bothering to cover it “that is the steward’s daughter, who you saw. The real Arya Stark thought that escaping the Red Keep would be a good idea”

“The little Stark child escaped to King’s Landing?” Taena asked. Even the myrish woman was surprised

“A foolish idea, truly.” Even a lackwit like Alva Nielsen would know it “I doubt her fate was kind”

Her good sister stood up “Pardon me, I have to retire…”

With even that amount, the traces would be too easy for any maester to see. A fall would be much safer.

Temptation was too big to resist, and the Queen moved her foot right under that of the girl.