Asoiaf: I Have a Wolverine Template

Chapter 16

Chapter 16: The New Cub
...
Joanna Lannister

A moon had passed since the return of my husband, and I found myself in the tranquil gardens atop Casterly Rock, nestled against Tywin's shoulder. He rested his chin on my head, gently caressing my belly where our child kicked and squirmed.

Nine moons had flown by since my pregnancy, and this little one was far more active than Cersei and Jaime had been in my womb. Each movement was a reminder of the life we had created together.

"My husband," I said softly, breaking the comfortable silence.

"Yes, love." The serious man I had known in court seemed a world away; in this moment, a softer Tywin answered me.

"What should we name our new cub?" I asked, placing my hand over his as it moved gently across my belly.

"If it's a boy, Tybolt, after our ancestor Tybolt the Thunderbolt. If it's a girl, Marbrand, after my mother." Tywin's eyes sparkled with warmth as he caressed my hands.

The peace of the moment enveloped me, the warmth of his touch bringing a blissful calm. I considered his name choices. While I appreciated the tribute to his mother for a daughter, Tybolt felt too fierce for our son. I wanted him to grow into a kind and gentle man, not a battle-hungry warrior.

"I don't mind the name for a girl," I replied, intertwining my fingers with his. "But for a boy, I wish to name him Tyrion."

Tywin gave my name choice a little thought, and moments later he agreed with me.

"As you wish, my lioness," Tywin whispered in my ear, his breath tickling me and sending a thrill through my heart.

I felt a swell of warmth in my chest at his agreement.

A moment later, I spotted Cersei, Jaime, and Galahad playing in the distance in the courtyard. The gardens, elevated above the courtyard, provided a clear view of them, just a few steps away. Galahad, Kevan's squire, was an odd lad—quiet and timid. Yet around Cersei, he seemed to blossom into a more confident version of himself.

His age was uncertain to Kevan, but he appeared to be close to fourteen. Initially, I had my reservations about him; Cersei often returned from their escapades with dirt-stained dresses and mischievous smiles. But over time, I discovered he was a loyal playmate and guard for my children, and I began to trust him.

Now, he was teaching them how to swing a sword properly, the three of them lost in their laughter.

As I watched them, a sudden warmth turned into something wet beneath my dress.

"Tywin!" I exclaimed, my voice rising in alarm.

Startled, my husband sat upright. "What is it?"

"I think our child is coming," I said, my voice trembling.

He sprang into action, helping me up and guiding me toward the birthing chamber. The pain surged as I stood, sending a wave of discomfort through me. Tywin called for the servants, and I felt myself lifted as they carried me down the hall.

With each jolt, the pain intensified, my mind blurring with the urgency of the moment. I couldn't help but scream as they hurried along, desperation mixing with the thrill of impending motherhood.

"Aggggghhhhh!" I screamed, the sound echoing through the dimly lit birthing chamber. Hours had passed since my water broke, and agony surged through me with each painful contraction. This pain was worse than my last birth.

Tears streamed down my cheeks as I gripped the bed, feeling as if the very fibers of my being were being tested. Why was this so painful? I asked myself, a mix of confusion and desperation swirling in my mind. Unlike my previous labor with twins, Cersei and Jaime, which had its own trials, this felt like a relentless storm of suffering.