The Lion and the Warrior

A Feast of Emotions

"I don't understand.  I mean, I do.  But, I know we don't have to do this. Can you imagine how James must feel?  This is ridiculous.  Seriously.  Honestly."

Daenerys smiled.  "Rhaella, I made you a promise.  I will live by that promise.  But you have to meet me half way.  I am sure you know what you want.  I know that you know, but your father wants to be sure.  We know what we want for you.  We know what you need.  And when all of this is over, you will have exactly what you want and need, I have no doubt."

"I just think this is a complete waste of time."

"Perhaps some time apart for you and James is important right now. He needs this time with his dad, and you and I could certainly use some time together too."

"Yes, that's valid.  But James and Ser Jaime could have had just as much time together here in King's Landing, just like you and I.  And how could you and daddy send them away right now at such a critical time for our Lord Commander?"

"Our Lord Commander is just fine.  Believe me."

"She misses him.  I think she misses Ser Jaime more than I miss James."

"Of course she does.  They have been married for long time, have children together, and have experienced deep emotions together that you and James haven't yet."

"You're talking about physical things, aren't you?"

"Physical and emotional.  Sometimes those things come together as a package."

"Mom..."

"Rhaella...you're about to get into a whole new realm that you need to be prepared for.  You are not like ordinary women. You're not an ordinary woman.  You are stronger, braver, more powerful.  You are growing into a queen while growing into a woman and falling in love.  You're about to inherit an entire kingdom while juggling new emotions of love, marriage and children."

"I understand that.  And I am your daughter - the little Khaleesi - who can handle anything."

"Yes, my darling.  And you are determined to do it all better than anyone before you.  I need to be sure you're ready, and I need to be sure this is what you want."

"Mother...I know what you and daddy did.  I've been paying attention my whole life.  You would not have brought Ser Jaime and Ser Brienne here to King's Landing for nothing.  You trusted them.  You knew they would raise a king."

Daenerys didn't reply. She continued brushing her daughter's hair. After some moments of silence, Rhaella turned to Dany and said, "I will go along with what you want me to do. But in the end, I know I will still love James."

"I know." Daenerys said.

"You know?"

"There is no man like James. There is only James."

Rhaella scoffed softly in annoyance feeling that this was even bigger of a waste of time than she previously believed. She had no choice though. Princess or not, her father was still the king and he definitely ruled on this matter.

Brienne was in the bed chamber of her private apartment. She sat alone in the bed, in her satin nightgown. The pink one that Jaime loved to see her in. He had it made special from Dorn.  It was actually quite risqué. It was short.  Although it had long sleeves, it had a plunging neckline and the length of it stopped two inches above her knees. She always felt like she was wearing next to nothing but,  Jaime does love this thing.  Oh fuck. I wish he were right here, right now. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she looked out the window at the moon. I can't stand this lonely empty feeling. For years I was just fine on my own. And then I met him. Ruthless, vile, spoiled, cruel, selfless, caring, gorgeous Jaime Lannister. And he showed me what love felt like. She laid down on the bed, one knee bent toward the ceiling, with a hand on her belly that was just beginning to swell. Oh Jai...I miss your smell, your warmth, your touch, your voice. I think even the babies miss your voice. Bloody hell! I just said babies! James has gotten in my head.  That boy. She beamed and laughed out loud. I hope he is well. I know he is in good hands. Gods, I miss them both. I can't wait two months to see my husband. This is bloody awful.