A Song of Fire & Snow (GOT)(Jon Snow)

Chapter 13: Jon Snow

~Futures Intertwined~

The next morning dawned with a fresh layer of snow blanketing the ground, transforming Winterfell into a sparkling winter wonderland. Jon Snow stepped out onto the stone balcony of his chambers, breathing in the crisp, cold air. He watched the snowflakes drift lazily down, and for a fleeting moment, the world felt serene. But beneath that peace, there was an undercurrent of anticipation.

Today was the day he had promised Alarys he would join her for training.

As he dressed in his heavy furs, Jon's mind drifted back to her. Alarys was a force of nature—her spirit as vibrant as the sun of Dorne that had nurtured her. He could still hear her laughter echoing in the training yard, her teasing challenges igniting something within him. He found himself wanting to impress her, to show her that he was more than just the Lord of Winterfell, the King in the North; he was a man who could stand beside her as an equal.

When he made his way to the training yard, the first thing he noticed was Alarys already in motion. She was sparring with two of the Northern guards, her swords flashing in the morning light, each movement precise and calculated. Jon's heart raced at the sight—her fierce determination, the way she commanded respect even among the Northmen.

"Good morning, my lord!" Alarys called out, her voice carrying across the yard. She paused mid-strike, grinning at him, and Jon felt a rush of warmth at her enthusiasm. "I was beginning to think you'd chicken out."

"Not a chance," Jon replied, his own smile breaking through. "I wouldn't dare disappoint you."

The guards stepped back, exchanging knowing glances, and Jon felt the weight of their curiosity. Alarys beckoned him forward, her dark eyes sparkling with mischief.

"Let's see what you've got, then," she challenged, her voice playful but with a hint of seriousness. "You'll need to be quick on your feet to keep up with me."

Jon stepped onto the training ground, a mix of excitement and nerves surging through him. He took a deep breath, focusing on the rhythm of the moment. "Alright, but don't go easy on me. I want to learn."

Alarys laughed, and it sent a thrill through him. "Oh, I promise I won't."

The next few hours passed in a blur of motion and adrenaline. Jon found himself engrossed in the training, the sword always felt natural in his hands. Alarys guided him through the basics of the Dornish Fighting Methods, correcting his stance and teaching him the intricacies of the new footwork. She was a patient teacher, her words encouraging as she pushed him to test his limits.

"Good! Keep your center of balance!" she called, demonstrating the proper way to pivot on his foot. "Remember, it's all about movement. You have to feel the fight."

He watched her move, her body flowing like water as she demonstrated different techniques. The way she fought was mesmerizing, a dance of strength and finesse that he found himself drawn into. And as they practiced together, Jon began to feel more than just the thrill of the sword; there was a connection forming between them that transcended mere physicality, they were almost dancing.

After a particularly challenging round, they both paused, breathing heavily as the chill air filled their lungs. Jon wiped the sweat from his brow and grinned at her. "I think I might be getting the hang of your fighting style."

"Not bad for a stuffy Northern lord," Alarys teased, crossing her arms and leaning back against a wooden post. "I think you have potential, Jon Snow, You could be a Water Dancer Yet!"

He felt a swell of pride at her compliment. "Coming from you, that means a lot."

"Just don't let it go to your head," she replied with a wink. "We wouldn't want that ego to grow too large."