Stark

“Perhaps...” Jon paused, turned the idea around in his head, “perhaps looking to the North for an alliance might be worthwhile.”

Rhaegar watched him. “Go on,”

“It is the largest of the Seven Kingdoms and it’s warriors are fiercely devoted to the Starks, even if they are untrusting of Southerners,” he gestured to himself, “perhaps my Stark heritage will give us a foothold in the North...and if a marriage is made it would bind both halves of the realm together.”

The King settled back into his chair, considering the idea. He was quiet for a long time and with his eyes closed Jon wondered if perhaps he had fallen asleep. But then finally he exhaled, looked at Jon, and then nodded. “I see the logic and....I think you are right,” he rubbed at his temple, “it is long past time that the North and South moved beyond the Rebellion.”

They made extensive preparations for the journey, and Jon made sure to send a raven to his Uncle Ned in advance. He did not tell him the specific reason for his journey, but he informed the man that he would be arriving with a retinue of fellows and that there would be some exploration of the North to be had. His uncle had written back quickly and enthusiastically, wanting to see his nephew after so many years apart.

The party was made up of fifty odd knights and minor courtiers who thought the trip would be an interesting diversion, in addition to Ser Barristan who would serve as Jon’s shield. They were well provisioned when they left, and it was mutually agreed that they would stop at Riverrun for respite before pushing on hard through the North where it was still snowing despite it being summer. Rhaegar told them to take care in their travels, but did remind his son that they did not have the time dally about.

With an entourage at his back and a purpose on his mind, Jon rode North.