Chapter 14

Riverrun – Lord and Lady Lannister's Chambers - Sansa

Sansa grimaced, she glanced down at the warm basin of water in which her husband – her husband – indicated she could wash before they dressed for their meeting with her sister and her new husband.

He'd pulled on breeches and a tunic and was ready to face Lord Ned and Lady Catelyn while she looked utterly ravaged. It was just another thing that was decidedly unfair in these ancient times.

Tywin absently brushed a kiss across her forehead, in a gesture so sweet and so domestic it threatened to buckle her knees.

"Be quick, Sansa," was all he said before he'd strode out of their bedroom, all power and grace to deal with their visitors.

Sansa took a moment to admire the man for his pure masculinity. There was something so virile, so alpha about the man, that he made her mouth water and her body long for more.

Sansa had mostly enjoyed her time in the past, although the lack of indoor plumbing, especially after a night and a morning making love to a man for the first time, was frustrating.

She was sticky and messy, and while Tywin had cleaned her last evening after their first coupling, the equivalent of a sponge bath wasn't really helping matters. Sansa wanted a long, hot shower, preferably with a high-pressure shower head. But that was nowhere to be seen here.

Resigned, she picked up the cloth and soap and began to clean herself, wondering where Barba was to help her dress. There was simply no way she could do it herself, even though ancient Westeros hadn't yet seen the corset.

As if she'd magically conjured the woman from her mind, Barba slipped into the bedchamber. Sansa blushed, red as a tomato as the woman's eyes landed on the rumpled bed and discarded sheets from last night. Within the hour every single person would know that Lord Tywin had done his duty with his new wife.

"So, you are Lady Lannister in every way now?" Barba asked, eyebrow arched.

There was no mistaking what she was asking, and even though what had happened between them was private and was theirs, Sansa nodded and then stilled as the implications of their actions hit her.

Holy shit – she was now Lady Sansa Lannister, wife of Tywin Lannister.

She was wedded, bedded and living seventeen hundred years in the past!

And, they hadn't done a single thing to prevent pregnancy.

Sansa felt a bit dizzy as she thought about the monumental changes – the sheer upheaval, her life had undergone in such a short time. She was so far from a graduate student who spent her days worrying about papers and going to hot yoga she barely even recognized that woman anymore.

And to add to all that, in nine months, she could be giving birth in a time when no one had even heard of an epidural, women regularly died in childbirth, and there was no such thing as a maternity ward or a neo-natal unit if something went wrong.

Not only that, was she even ready to become a mother? She hadn't even really considered it, although she'd understood in some part of her brain what it had meant to become Tywin's wife. Children. Heirs. Securing his legacy.

There was also the fact that they were at war. Things were so uncertain and who knew if their actions had changed things too much.

Who would ever bring a child into such times?

Sansa reached for a chair, to steady herself, thoughts chasing themselves around and around in her mind.

Barba moved towards her swiftly, her face an enigmatic mask, as if she were worried about Sansa. Barba didn't know that it was the thought of a child with Tywin that had Sansa so unsteady, not the memory of last night.

"Tell me - was he good to you?" she demanded when she got closer.

Good? The man was everything Sansa had ever wanted in a lover.

Sure, she hadn't thought she'd have to be married to trade in her v-card, but what a way to lose it. He'd been so attentive and sexy, and Sansa hoped she'd held her own with him. She'd loved giving him pleasure this morning, focusing on him. Sansa got the impression that not very many people in his life had ever taken care of Tywin and she was determined to do so.

Sansa giggled and nodded and watched as her handmaiden relaxed.

"Good."

"He liked how I was groomed," Sansa said, unable to hold back the confession.

For a brief, aching moment, Sansa wished she could text Marg and tell her what had happened. Her best friend would be so proud of her and want ALL the details. And she'd proud as hell that Sansa had multiple orgasms during her first time. But since she was not around, Sansa had to settle for the next best thing – Barba.

The older woman gave a knowing little smile. She'd been a widow for ten years and had never had children of her own. She was singularly devoted to Sansa and would come with her when she went to Casterly Rock.

"I'll bet he did. You are beautiful, my dear." Sansa had never had a mother, and Barba was the closest she'd ever come.

Sansa flushed with the memory of what had taken place in this room. It all seemed so intense – so life-altering.

Was she having these feelings because she'd finally had sex? Or was it the times in which she now lived?

Sansa had noticed that there was always a keen edge of danger that seemed to surround even the most innocent conversations. Thank the gods that being married to Tywin did give her a sense of security she had previously been missing.

She was still adjusting to the brutality, the violence, the cruelty of these ancient times. Robert's display last evening, along with Tywin's overreaction to Sandor, had been a few of the highlights of how quickly something could turn ugly. And ugly here often meant pain or death.

And while Sansa was becoming all too aware of how dangerous the times were, her relationship with Tywin and the tender moments also seemed more passionate and intense than any relationship she'd ever seen in modern times. She'd barely known the man a week and yet he felt imprinted on her soul.

The intensity of the bond that had formed between them had startled even Sansa – and she'd been open to receiving his feelings. Back in her time, there was no way things would have progressed so quickly between them.

Sansa loved how Tywin did not seem a man capable of holding himself back when he finally allowed himself to care for someone. Even without words of love exchanged, Sansa knew the man would wage a war for her! How many women could say that she wondered?

This Tywin that she was falling hard and fast for, was the man that she had been obsessed with her entire life – it was this aspect of him that she had argued about time and again to anyone who would listen.

When Tywin Lannister loved, he did so with his entire heart.

A small cough from Barba had Sansa looking at the small basin of warm water.

Barba heaved out an aggrieved sigh, waving a hand.

"Your husband states you are to leave for Casterly Rock today, and that there is no time to bathe. This is madness, I argue, but he insists."

"We are leaving today?" Sansa asked, somewhat surprised.

Tywin hadn't said a word, and while there hadn't been much time for talking last evening, certainly, he might have said something this morning. Sansa felt a bit put out by his failure to tell her their plans.

Barba bit her lip, and Sansa could tell there was something the woman wanted to say. Since she'd come back in time, this was the one person Sansa trusted the most next to Tywin.

"Tell me what is on your mind," she told her friend, laying a hand on the woman's arm. Perhaps Sansa should be more circumspect with the 'help,' but she wasn't that person. Barba was like a mother, big sister and wise auntie all rolled into one blunt package. Sansa adored her.

Her handmaiden's eyes met Sansa's.

"Your husband is a stubborn, powerful man. He seems besotted with you and has made grand gestures, yes, to win your hand. But do not forget, he is a lion. Do not forget his reputation. Do not forget who he is."

Sansa understood where this warning was coming from. Women in this time had so little power, and Barba had no idea when she came from and what Sansa knew. In Barba's mind, Sansa had just married the most terrifying man in Westeros. And that was saying something given the number of dangerous men that were currently alive right now.

Tywin's reputation was well established, and besides Aerys, there was probably no one as feared as he was.

With the Vale, the North, and the Riverlands backing him, had he ever been as powerful?

But Sansa wasn't like other highborn women – and that was what set her apart. It was what had intrigued her lion and had drawn him to her like a moth to a flame. And it gave her an advantage when it came to her marriage.

It was an advantage that Sansa would have to use ruthlessly to make Tywin understand that he needed her as much as she needed him. They needed to work together if they were to be successful.

Already, she knew they were changing things, and whether those changes would be beneficial would remain to be seen.

Regardless, she had to try. There were so many innocent lives that might be spared if they could combine her knowledge with Tywin's influence and power.

"I know exactly who Tywin is, Barba." Truer words had never been spoken. Was there anyone who knew Tywin as well as Sansa? Even Tywin himself? Most likely not.

The woman grunted.

Finally dressed, with her hair plated, Barba patted her shoulder.

"You will break your fast with him in the solar."

Sansa thanked her for her help and then went to find her husband, wondering how this conversation might go with Lord Ned Stark.

Had she changed too much? Would their plan even work? What might happen should Aerys hear about their marriage?

Sansa just wanted time to speak with Tywin and to think, plan and strategize. Preferably in a bed with lots of food, wine and few interruptions.

She found her new family of lions sitting opposite Catelyn and Ned in the adjoining solar.

All three lions looked ready to snap on the Northern lord, and though Sansa knew this man wasn't her beloved father, he looked so much like him that she knew she had to end this nonsense.

Catelyn's face was scared, and she was all but huddled up to Ned, who bless him, had his arm protectively around his new wife. It seemed like some good had come from Robert's drunken ramblings – Ned Stark seemed determined to protect his new wife.

"Lord and Lady Stark," Sansa said brightly, a massive smile on her face.

She ran a hand along her husband's shoulders, watching him lean into her touch before she went to hug her sister, who seemed scared of Robert, but happy with Ned.

Sansa was delighted. She turned to Ned, beaming at him. The man seemed stunned by her, and she heard Tywin snort and mutter to himself about his wife not knowing her place.

She shot him a withering look.

"Allow me a moment with my good brother, husband."

Tywin rolled his eyes. Sansa turned back to Ned and saw that he appeared to be stunned by their little display.

Sansa figured almost no one spoke to the Great Lion as she did. But Ned was family and it was time that he learned to trust them. It would save them all a lot of grief in the end.

"Lord Stark, I am pleased to hear that my sister was safe in your care."

The man swallowed hard and nodded.

"She is, Lady Lannister. Safe with me, of that I can assure you."

Ned didn't even realize it, but he drew Catelyn closer to him again, so she was once again in his arms. His actions spoke volumes for the feelings he was already developing for Catelyn.

Sansa would have cheered, had that been appropriate. Her husband might be a peacock compared to Ned Stark, but damn, the man had some depth to him. Cat was lucky - women from this time rarely found such well-meaning and gentle men as their husbands as Ned was proving to be.

Sansa knew from her history that Ned had left Catelyn at Riverrun. Of course, things had not improved for their marriage when Ned had arrived home after the wars with his sister's son, whom he passed off as his own bastard. It had almost destroyed them and who could blame them?

Sansa wasn't sure exactly where Lyanna was right now – somewhere in Dorne. Sansa knew that there were some things even she couldn't stop. Lyanna died in childbirth, which was not within her power to alter, even if she could.

What Sansa could do was ensure that someone else went to retrieve Jon, if they were successful in taking King's Landing, and that everyone knew who Jon was.

It was clear that Ned was already choosing Cat over his friend Robert, which was such a huge thing, that lying about Jon would be the worst thing Ned could do. Sansa gave Ned credit for doing whatever was necessary to protect Jon from men like Robert, and Tywin, but hopefully with her here, things would be different.

On that note, Sansa had some ideas about all the Targaryen children. Children that were innocent. She also had some choice thoughts about the idea of conquest versus 'right to rule.'

But those were thoughts for another day.

They still had time to deal with Jon, Elia, her children and those on Dragonstone. Sansa knew she'd have to do some fast talking to convince her husband to try things her way.

Right now, the issue of Cat's safety was paramount.

"That is why we are here – my wife's safety. I apologize for waking you so early, but the matter is urgent."

Ned's eyes flicked back to Tywin, and Sansa knew the moment had come. She turned to take her seat beside her husband, noting that Kevan gave her a warm smile while Tygett's face remained cold and aloof. He was a grumpy lion that was for sure. She wondered what she might have to do to win him to her side.

Sansa brushed her lips across Tywin's as she sat.

"Husband."

He leaned in for another kiss, which she willingly gave.

"Wife."

She could see he was struggling with what she'd told him earlier about Ned naming Jaime a Kingslayer, and she let her hand rest on his thigh, giving it a reassuring squeeze. He had to understand, he was no longer alone. They would face whatever changes they had wrought, together.

They were too wrapped up in one another to notice the other four people in the room, staring at them.

Sansa didn't realize that neither Kevan nor Tygett could ever remember Tywin acting in such a way with Joanna, and Ned and Cat appeared somewhat stunned by Sansa and Tywin's open and devoted affection.

"Trust me," she whispered against his lips so quiet that only he could hear her. "Please, Tywin."

He gave a short, curt nod and then as one, and they turned to face the Starks.

"Lord Stark, please sit."

After everyone began to eat, Ned cleared his throat. Sansa felt for him. The strain was evident on his face, and with his brother and father dead, he was responsible for the entire North and all the people and houses there. He was a year younger than her, and she wondered at such a burden that had been placed on him.

"Lord Tywin, I have pledged myself to Robert and his war for vengeance against House Targaryen. You are aware of what happened to my brother, my father and my sister at their hands."

Tywin's face was grim. He nodded curtly.

"I know what Aerys is capable of, Lord Stark. My condolences to your family."

Gods, that man, Sansa thought bitterly.

Both Tywin and Ned had suffered at the hands of the Mad King. Her husband's hand was flexing into a fist, and his entire demeanour had changed, almost as if he were coiled, ready to strike. He was as tense as she'd ever seen.

Ned's eyes got a faraway look.

"I never imagined any of this," he said quietly. Then realizing everyone's eyes were on him, he cleared his throat.

"I have been friends with Robert for a long time – since we fostered together in the Vale. If any man can understand how friends from yough can … change, it is you."

Sansa saw the flare of admiration in Tywin's eyes for the young Ned Stark.

"I can. Aerys and I were close as boys, Lord Stark. Now we are not."

Ned's jaw locked.

"When we began our war, we sent ravens, asking for your help. You sat at the Rock while our men fought those aligned with him. I am struggling, Lord Tywin, to not see your actions this past week as extremely opportune for you."

Tywin leaned forward.

"He has my son, Lord Stark. My heir. I was not in a position to act."

The two men locked gazes.

"I'm not sure if I believe that. You are either the most opportune man, or this was your plan the entire time."

Tywin said nothing, while Ned swallowed hard again. Sansa had to give him credit for sheer balls to go up against the Great Lion like he was. Very few men had ever called Tywin out like Ned was, and lived to tell the tale.

"But we are stronger with you on our side. I was impressed with your argument regarding the Kingship in Lord Hoster's study. Robert is many things, but interested in the rule of law is not one of them. I no longer agree with him being the best choice for King."

Tywin grunted. He'd known this for an age, for he'd been friends with Steffon along with Aerys, in his youth and how that could change. That change, that betrayal, was brutal, and Tywin had felt the sting of it from Aerys more than once. Now Ned was having to reconcile his friendship with the man that Robert had become. It was not an easy thing to do.

"I agreed to back you because of your record when you were Aerys' Hand. The realm prospered. I believe it will prosper once again with you as King. And as much as Robert is my friend, he is not fit to rule."

Tywin nodded, and Sansa could tell he was pleased with the praise from Ned Stark.

"And last night, Lord Stark?"

Ned turned away then and got a faraway look in his eyes.

"I turned a blind eye to the rumours I heard when we were in the Vale. I knew about his … appetites."

When he turned back, there was a fire and determination in his face that Sansa hadn't previously seen.

"Last night, even drunk, was too far, Lord Tywin. I want my wife safe. Leaving her here, I no longer believe that to be the best choice. Does your offer still stand? Will you take Lady Catelyn with you to the Rock? The fight with the King will happen in the Riverlands. If I could get her North …"

The man trailed off, and he appeared haunted by the idea that he might not be able to keep his wife safe. He had to be reeling with the death of over half his family.

Sansa squeezed her husband's thigh. Hard. Tywin could not waste this opportunity!

"She is family, Lord Stark. She will be safe at the Rock," Tywin pronounced.

The relief on Ned's face was palpable as his shoulders sagged in relief, and he broke decorum by brushing his lips against Cat's forehead, cradling to her to his chest. Sansa felt the tears prick her eyes at how sweet he was with her.

"Thank you," she whispered to Tywin, who merely grunted.

"I am sorry, but we must leave today. It is at least ten days hard ride to the Rock, and then I must call my banners if I am to take King's Landing. Aerys will soon learn of my marriage, and I must send word to him that it is my way of trying to neutralize the Riverlands and protect my borders. I know this does not give you time with your new wife, Lord Stark."

"Tis alright," he said, his northern accent slipping through, the relief evident. "She'll be safe. That is what matters."

"Ned," Catelyn said, pressing her forehead to his.

"It's safer with your sister and Lord Tywin, Catelyn. The lions will keep you safe."

"Do we have to be parted so soon?" she whispered, an ache in her voice.

It was as if the two of them had forgotten about Sansa, Tywin, Kevan and Tygett.

"We do. I am sorry. I'll do anything to keep you safe," Ned said, real regret in his voice.

Sansa almost swooned. Ned Stark might not be as flashy as Tywin, but oh my god, the man had his own appeal. Catelyn was one lucky woman, and if Sansa could help them in any way, she would. She was so happy for them.

"Thank you, Tywin," Sansa whispered into his ear and watched as Ned and Catelyn took their leave, leaving the lions alone. Catelyn was already fretting about being packed in time to leave within a few hours.

Alone with just his brothers, Tywin turned his head, so his lips brushed hers. Sansa wanted both of Tywin's brothers to understand she was in this to win it with Tywin. She would not allow scowly Tygett to chase her off. Tywin was hers.

"You owe me, wife."

She knew that he would have done it regardless – this was a massive boon for the Westerlands, to be entrusted with keeping Lord Stark's wife safe. But still, Sansa loved to tease her husband.

Sansa grinned.

"Oh, I'm sure you will think of some way to collect," she purred into her ear and nipped at him before his growl had her retreating to eat her breakfast.

"Is it true we are leaving today?" she asked when a maid brought her a fresh pot of tea, some honey and oats.

She arched an eyebrow at him, and he had the wherewithal to appear a bit chagrined.

"I must have forgotten to tell you."

Sansa snorted.

"Forgotten. Like you've forgotten a single thing in your entire life," she muttered, sweetening the black tea to how she liked it. Sansa missed coffee fiercely. When she saw the look of shock on Tywin's brother's faces, she smiled to both Kevan and Tygett, the latter who, reluctantly, stopped looking like he'd sucked on a lemon.

"Perhaps I simply didn't want my new wife to debate every one of my decisions."

Sansa rolled her eyes. "Please. You're just used to snapping your fingers and have everyone rush to do your bidding."

Tywin leaned in closer, stroking a finger down her cheek, his green eyes blazing. She felt the shudder of desire race through her.

"Do not forget, wife, and I am Lord of Casterly Rock, Shield of Lannisport, Warden of the West and Head of House Lannister. I am a powerful man."

Sansa grinned and licked the honey from the spoon.

"That's a mouthful, My Lord husband. I'm not sure if I can remember all that."

His mouth was at her ear. "You seemed to like a mouthful earlier, wife."

Heat, fierce and wild, bloomed through her as she grinned at him. The spell between them was only interrupted by a cough from Kevan.

Both men were looking at them like they'd never seen anything quite like their display.

Tygett was shaking his head, almost in wonder.

"I thought it was only political," he was mumbling. "I had no idea it was more."

Tywin said nothing, turning back to his breakfast.

Then Tygett began to laugh, and for the first time since she'd met him, Sansa saw genuine affection for the two of them on his face.

"She's got you by the tail brother, and I cannot wait to see her in our home."

Pleased she'd won another lion to her side, Sansa finally let go of Tywin and began to eat in earnest. No doubt, their start for the Rock would be much later than Tywin had preferred, but it would still be a change from her typical day and she did not mean to be hungry as she set out for her new home, excitement coursing through her body.

Riverrun – Tywin

After Tygett had left to secure their men and horses for their journey home, Tywin watched as Kevan engaged his new wife in conversation about the Rock. Content to sit back and watch the two of them for a moment, Tywin tried to imagine how his daughter might react to him coming home with Sansa.

Unpleasantly, he'd decided. Cersei had long ago elevated Joanna to a near-impossible standard, and this would do nothing to help his fraught relationship with his daughter. Still, his marriage was not a choice that Tywin could or would regret.

Before they left Riverrun, there were a few ravens he had to send – one each to Jaime in King's Landing, King Aerys and Grand Maester Pycelle.

Initially, Tywin had thought he might contain the knowledge of their marriage to the group at Riverrun, but Tywin now knew that was just a foolish wish. Word would spread, swift and far throughout the Kingdom that he had taken his second wife, and he needed to preemptively strike before rumours began.

Hiding his marriage would only make Aerys more suspicious.

Instead, Tywin would proclaim to the entire Seven Kingdoms that he had married Sansa Tully to secure an heir with his spare now dead. There was no possible way Aerys could begrudge him that – especially since the man had taken Jaime for himself as a Kingguard. Everyone new those positions were appointed for life.

Tywin would also use the opportunity to affirm his support for the King, hopefully mitigating any fears that Aerys had of him and his loyalty.

In many ways, this marriage to Sansa, if spun correctly, could gain him even greater favour with the King and bring some temporary relief to his endless paranoia.

Sansa finally rose and thanked Keven for his support of their marriage, before she brushed her lips across his.

"Apparently, I have to pack."

Tywin heard the bite in her tone and knew she was unhappy with him for his unilateral decision to leave today that he hadn't informed her of, but she also had to try to understand their different roles and the place that he occupied. She might come from a time when men and women were equals, but they were decidedly not back here.

"It is where you will be safest," he said truthfully and saw her all but melt at his words.

"Then I forgive you this oversight, Tywin."

When she was gone, Kevan coughed and Tywin focused his attention on his brother.

"So you are now married, for a second time, in name and deed," his brother said.

"I am."

"And you are happy with your wife if this display this morning is anything to go by."

Happy was not something Tywin had allowed himself to yearn for in his life.

He had obligations, duty, and a legacy to fulfill. Because of that, his marriage to Joanna, while a love match, had been about steadiness and dependability.

This fiery need with Sansa, the banter, the sheer want had never been present with his first wife.

"I am cautiously pleased, and she is adjusting to this time period."

Kevan coughed as he choked on some ale and shook his head.

"Oh brother, you should see your face. I've never seen you quite so taken with anyone."

Tywin grunted, frowning. "Are you insinuating that I am acting a fool, such as father did?"

Kevan was the only man he could ask such a question to.

His brother shook his head.

"Gods no. Father dallied with whores and wet nurses. Sansa was one of the most eligible women in the realm, before you snatched her up."

Kevan paused and then narrowed his eyes.

"And I suspect, with her knowledge, a boon to our house if this little demonstration is anything to go by."

Kevan might have lived his entire life in the shadow of Tywin Lannister, but he was still a Lannister. He was intelligent, and he was a deft study of human behaviour. Houses Stark and Lannister had never been close – today's display would have been almost unthinkable a few short months ago.

"She is an exceptional woman, Kevan. And highly intelligent."

"And has she shared things with you?" Kevan asked, deeply intrigued about what Sansa had told Tywin.

Tywin nodded slowly.

"She has."

He heaved out a weary sigh.

"We need time, Kevan. Time and few interruptions to truly learn all she knows. But the way her mind works…"

There was such a tone of respect that Kevan had to bite back the grin. Tywin was unlike most men, in that a comely face might catch his interest for a moment, but it was a woman's intelligence that drew him in. And held him there. There was no one who loved as deeply or as loyally as Tywin, Kevan knew.

"We will get home, and then you can take all the time you need."

"We must march on King's Landing, Kevan. When we do, we will do so as liberators and come to save the people from their mad King. No raping, no pillaging. We will be seen as heroes, brother, and earn the love and loyalty of the people."

Kevan wondered exactly what Lady Sansa had told Tywin of their future, but held off asking more for her could see this was all Tywin was willing to say for now. There would come a time when more would be revealed, but his brother was right. They needed to make for the Rock, and fast.

Kevan rose and laid a hand on Tywin.

"The burden laid upon your shoulders came at far too young an age, brother. Even if you never admit it, I am glad to see some life back in your eyes."

Tywin sat there amongst the discarded refuse of their broken fast, lost in his musings when Sansa entered the small solar again.

Of course, she came right over to him, which made him preen that his new, lovely wife seemed to want to be around him so much. It was something he'd never had before. Most people avoided him and went out of their way to not be in his presence. Tywin knew he was not an easy man.

But not Sansa. She seemed to actually like him and think them more than just husband and wife, but friends and co-conspirators. Unable to help himself, he tugged her onto his lap, loving how she was his to touch now whenever he wanted.

"All packed?" he asked.

He indeed did not have time to dally with the ravens that he had to send before they left. But he wanted this moment with her.

"It is being done. You did not come with much, Tywin."

He grunted at that, his hand playing with her braided hair.

"No, there is more at the Rock."

Thinking about his home, Tywin wondered how Sansa might adapt to travel. It had to be completely different than what she was used to from her time.

"You understand what the next few days will be like, don't you?" he asked her.

She had been snuggled deep in his arms, playing with his tunic.

"Lots of horseback and the living with the bare necessities, I'm assuming," she said, wrinkling her nose. She gave a long-suffering sigh.

"What I wouldn't do for a shower."

"What is a shower?"

She sat up and faced him, her eyes alight.

"Oh, well, in modern times, we have something called indoor plumbing, where your water closet, shower, sink – well, everything is inside a room we call a bathroom. Through a system of pipes, electricity and modern plumbing, a person can have hot water whenever they want, along with a flushable toilet that takes the waste to a sewer system. A shower is an enclosed space where the hot water comes from a tap above your head."

Tywin was utterly fascinated by such a concept.

"At Casterly Rock, there is a cavernous room with bathing pools, Sansa. And while we do not have quite the modern conveniences you are used to, our water closets are more advanced than here at Riverrun."

"Ohhh! Historians have debated for years if that huge room below the family chambers might once have been used for bathing. I'm so excited to see it, Tywin. I used to go there so often when I lived in Lannisport. It drew me in. I can't wait to see it at the height of its splendour."

He would never have found another woman that had such an eagerness for his home in the entire realm he knew. Sansa was so unique in how much she wanted to be part of House Lannister.

"Perhaps, after you have adjusted, there may be improvements we can make."

She nodded. "I'd like that."

"And when we are home, we will share a chamber, Sansa."

His hand, now on her hip, flexed possessively, and he liked how her tongue darted out to lick her lips.

"That pleases me, husband," she said as her hand played with the hair at his neck. He loved her hands on him.

Tywin groaned, his cock, which he'd thought to be utterly spent, was rising to the occasion once again.

"Gods, what you do to me," he said, watching as she leaned down to kiss him passionately.

"Tell me, will we be able to couple when we are travelling to the Rock?" she whispered in his ear.

"Yes," Tywin hissed as she bit his ear and then soothed the sting with her mouth.

"Good."

Then she was rising off his lap, and her face was alight with excitement as she held her hand out to him. She was so gorgeous, Tywin thought, caught up in her beauty.

"Come, let us get these ravens written and sent away, and then we can begin our next adventure."

The logical part of his brain wanted to rail at her that this wasn't an 'adventure' – this was a vicious game where one wrong move meant death. But he saw that she was attempting to adjust to this life she was now living, and if she needed to think of it as an adventure, well, for now, he'd indulge her.

As if she could read him like a book, she hugged him hard.

"I know the stakes, Tywin. I do. I am not trying to be cavalier. But if I do not think about this as some grand escapade, then I worry I will be utterly useless, shaking in fear."

He knew that he was the only person that she thoroughly trusted back in this time, and he thanked the gods for the power he had consolidated.

"I will do everything in my power to keep you safe, Sansa."

She nodded into his chest, and then her eyes rose to meet his.

"You know we did nothing to prevent pregnancy, right?"

Tywin frowned.

"When in seven hells would I want to prevent you ripening with my seed?"

She moaned a bit, and he saw the lust there for him. Pleased, he pressed a large hand to her stomach.

"I cannot wait for the day when the Maester says you are carrying the next lion of House Lannister, Sansa."

He could see the effect his words had on her and vowed that no matter what, he'd have her each night they travelled. Let his men hear that he was no Old Lion; not yet at least. Finally, he let her go as he found his way to the borrowed desk to begin his messages to be sent to the capital.

The raven to the Grand Maester was easy enough to compose. In it, Tywin spoke of his marriage to Lady Sansa and his 'devotion' to King Aerys. Pycelle was loyal to House Lannister, so Tywin knew the man would understand what was not being said. He didn't dare risk saying anything more. If Pycelle knew he was coming, the man would ensure Tywin had access to King's Landing when the time was right.

His missive to Jaime was short and to the point. With Tyrion's death and Jaime's vow to the Kingsguard, Tywin needed an heir. He praised his son, for his extemporary work as a guard to the King, and promised that soon enough, they would be together again. Jaime was well aware of how much Tywin hated Aerys, and he hoped his son would understand, but if not, there would be time enough to speak to him when he took King's Landing back from Targ rule.

Tywin got a certain amount of glee in using Sansa's term for the once-mighty house.

As he sat at the borrowed desk, Tywin dipped his quill in ink to begin this last raven, and of the lot, the one that had him most on edge. It was a gamble, no doubt, to flaunt his new marriage in the face of the King. Aerys had thought he'd won when he'd stolen Jaime as a Kingsguard, leaving Tywin's only heir as Tyrion.

But to say nothing would be a greater risk, Tywin had determined.

King Aerys Targaryen, Second of His Name

By now, the tragedy of my second son's untimely death had undoubtedly reached your discerning ears, Your Grace. I mourned the loss of my son, for several months, grief and rage at my last remaining heir befalling such a fate. The very existence of my house, my line, my legacy has hung in the precarious balance since Tyrion's death, and for months I have been at odds, trying to find a pathway forward.

It was only this desperate need that moved me even to consider marrying another, for you know all too well, my love for Lady Joanna and my vows to her.

When news of the rebellion reached Casterly Rock, I knew I had an opportunity to secure a new marriage for myself and weaken the rebels from within by marrying Hoster Tully's eldest daughter. The man has wanted an alliance for an age, and in his greed, he did not see that this marriage is naught more than a political alliance, for I now hold the Trout's eldest daughter under my care, and we all know his love for her. The Trout, whether he knows it or not, is now under my control, Your Grace.

While our friendship had been stretched, loyalties tested, over the years, I remain as devoted to you as the day I swore my vows to be your Hand, Your Grace.

Upon marrying Lady Sansa Tully, I have gained the rebels' trust and belief in me, while securing my borders and ensuring the Westerlands remains strong, unaffected by the war and ready to ride to your aid, my King.

I await your word, to come to King's Landing and help you secure the city, Your Grace. And I await your blessing on my marriage. You have my deepest apologies for marrying without your knowledge, but I saw an opportunity to ensure our victory in the wars.

As always, your humble servant, Lord of Casterly Rock, Shield of Lannisport, Warden of the West,

Tywin Lannister

Tywin all but threw his quill down after signing his name, disgust roiling through him. He knew what was needed, but it ate at him to simper and bow before a man that had inflicted so much harm on his family. As if knowing what such words cost him, Sansa was there, smoothing her hands down his chest and pressing a kiss to his neck.

"Oh, my lion, I know this rankles you ever so," she murmured into his ear.

Never had Tywin thought that having someone to share his secrets, share his burdens, share his plots with would offer him such relief, but Sansa did.

He was arrogant enough to believe he'd never meet anyone capable of thinking the same way he did. Until Sansa. The woman knew him almost better than he knew himself.

"He caused such wanton destruction, Sansa. Gleefully, because he was jealous of me, of my love for Joanna. And all because he could," Tywin ground out.

"I know. And we will make him pay, Tywin. You will sit on the Iron Throne, and the people will love you. You will be known as the man that defeated the mad Targaryen ruler and brought peace back to Westeros. You will be known as a saviour."

It was a heady thought, and Tywin had to admit, appealed to him more and more with Sansa by his side.

With the raven done, Tywin and Sansa walked to the rookery to send the scrolls themselves, not trusting anyone but each other.

"How much have we changed?" Tywin asked her as they watched the little pieces of parchment attached to the birds.

Sansa leaned into him, and he was content to have her by his side.

"Enough. I don't know if what we changed will make things better or worse, but considering what happened with Robert as King ---"

She trailed off.

Tywin had not asked her how he died again, preferring to save that conversation to a time when he knew they would have time to suss out all the details.

Even now, he could not be sure that telling Aerys about his marriage wouldn't endanger Jaime more.

"Jaime is loyal, Tywin. And he's smart. Smarter than people give him credit. I do not think that Aerys will use our marriage as a reason to hurt him. If anything, it might make Jaime safer, since Aerys now knows you have the potential for another heir."

"Or he will see right through our lie and react violently by killing my only living son."

Sansa sighed. "I'm sorry. If I hadn't come back ---"

"Hush, now. I made this decision, Sansa. This is not on you."

She shook her head, a look of wonder in her eyes.

"How have you not collapsed with all the pressure on you? The last thing I want to do is cause you more pain," she told him truthfully.

Gods, he was addicted to how this woman saw him, how deeply she cared for him, already.

She didn't quite understand, yet, how everything they did was a calculated risk – even something like sitting out this war had been a risk. Eventually, Aerys could have seen Tywin's lack of engagement as a reason to strike out at him and end Jaime's life.

It was a fear that had been constant since the moment Jaime had donned that dreaded white cloak. The smallest thing might have set off the mad King.

"You bring me hope, Sansa, not pain," was all he could say, for the emotion threatened to choke him.

When the ravens were finally gone from their sight, they made their way towards the Great Hall, where the Lannister men and Lady Catelyn Stark had gathered to say their goodbyes.

It was only mid-morning, and Tywin knew if they rode hard, they'd be halfway to Wayfarer's Rest. He was anxious to be back in the Westerlands and did not fully trust House Vance that held that seat. Especially knowing there were those in the Riverlands that supported House Targaryen.

They entered the Great Hall to see Hoster holding court, preening with delight at the consummated marriage of his two eldest daughters.

Robert was slumped in a chair, apparently nursing a sore head, and Tywin's fingers itched to take his sword and be done with the man here and now. He only held his sword because of what Sansa had shared with him about the battle with Rhaegar, at the Trident.

Instead, it was Sansa that was silently seething upon spotting Robert. And whom Tywin should have been paying attention to. When the big man heaved himself from his seat to 'wish them luck,' Sansa's hand cracked across his ruddy face.

The man appeared shocked, and Tywin tensed, wondering if blood would be spilled here and now. He could not believe she had done such a thing after she'd forced him to stay his hand yesterday. Didn't she understand the consequences her actions might have? Tywin sent a silent prayer that the slap would be the end of it.

Instead, his wife, glorious as she was, leaned in to speak to Robert. He had to admire her sheer courage at facing down such a man that had threatened to rape her mere hours ago.

"If you ever threaten me or my sister again, I'll have my husband cut your cock from your body and stuff it down your throat. When you are choking on it, My Lord, he will find ways to make you suffer unimaginably before you finally beg him to end your torment."

For a moment, Tywin saw the anger flare in Robert's eyes, before the man let out a hearty chuckle and shook his head.

"She's a spitfire, Lord Tywin. Best of luck taming that cunt," he japed before he turned back to Sansa, and Tywin saw his anger there.

"Don't ever touch me again, unless you plan on using that hand or that smart mouth for more than threatening me, Lady Lannister."

The implication was clear. Sansa had pushed Robert as far as possible.

Tywin growled, pushing Sansa behind him. His green eyes were glittering in outrage. Despite the fact that Sansa had put them all in jeopardy with her actions, Tywin would defend her until his last breath.

And no one, not even Robert Baratheon would ever threaten her and not feel his fury. Tywin knew all eyes were on him and he could not let this go unaddressed.

"Robert, be very careful. Your alliance holds, but only barely. Your house is under siege, and you are unmarried. It would not take much to wipe House Baratheon from the map. It is only out of friendship for your father, and the need to unseat the mad King that I have stayed my hand when it comes to you."

A quiver of fear went through Robert's eyes as Tywin's threat penetrated his thick skull and the words resonated. Tywin's voice dropped lower.

"You have insulted my wife, my house and my name in every way possible. Unlike your so-called friends, I will not hesitate to act. Do not think my inaction a sign of weakness." He leaned in even closer. "A Lannister always pays his debts."

The sweat and stink that poured off the man turned Tywin's stomach. How on earth could they have thought this man a worthy king?

Turning, Tywin's eyes flashed at Sansa. He was so angry at her; he could barely look at her. He could see that she realized how badly she had overstepped and how dangerous things were, but his rage prevented him from comforting her.

Had he been forced into a confrontation with Robert, everything might have been ruined.

"I'm sorry," she whispered as he hurried her towards her 'father' to say goodbye.

Tywin said nothing, his jaw clenched tight, and he could see she was holding the tears back, but only barely. When they got to her family, he stepped back, attempting to reign in his temper as she spoke with them.

He held himself rigid until the obligatory salutations were given, eager to be on their way. Just as he was about to growl for Sansa to finish it, Brynden Tully was by his side. There was a hard edge to man's jaw, and Tywin recalled how Sansa said this man would fight at the Trident.

If there was one man that could guarantee the death of Rhaegar, it was him.

"The Crown Prince cannot survive the upcoming war," Tywin said in a low voice to Brynden.

The man nodded in understanding. "He will not, Lord Tywin."

Then both men looked to Robert, who was already back into the ale.

"And that one?"

Tywin wished he could send Tygett with Ned, Bryden and Jon Arryn to take care of Robert. But that would be too suspicious, and Aerys would know if his brother was not by his side.

"I've heard that Lord Stannis is much more adept at ruling the Stormlands," was all Tywin said, and he could see the agreement in Brynden's eyes.

"So many unfortunate things can happen in a war," the Blackfish murmured, and Tywin knew that they were of the same mindset. Robert Baratheon would not live past the final battle.

Tywin turned to face the Blackfish straight on, so he could look him in the eyes as he said his next piece.

"Your brother needs you here. Your nephew needs you here. The Riverlands needs you here. Some houses are loyal to the dragons – they must be dealt with. You are the man to do that, Ser Brynden."

"Why do you care, Lion?" he sneered, chafing at the lecture.

"I am married to Lady Sansa. Our houses, our regions are now linked. The Greyjoys continue to be a threat to us both. I need the Riverlands strong, Blackfish, not mired in rebellion, weakened from within."

The man grunted and nodded.

"Tell my brother I'll stay, but he won't force me to take a wife."

With that, the man strode away, and Tywin knew he'd done everything he could to attempt to keep this region strong.

Soon enough, Sansa was back by his side, subdued and quiet as they made their way to the stables, where his wife's mare was waiting. Their belongings were attached to a litter that was pulled by two large packhorses of House Tully.

Briefly, he realized that there were two additional handmaidens to his entourage and that Kevan had stepped in to ensure that Lady Catelyn was comfortable on her mount. The woman appeared heartsick to be leaving her home, but Ned Stark was standing there, stoically telling her this was best.

Not for the first time, Tywin was grateful that Sansa was so accomplished on horseback and growled when the stable hand went to help her. He might be so mad at her he could hardly see straight, but still, no one would touch her but him.

When his hand was on her arm, she turned into his chest, burrowing against him. His arms came up to encircle her.

"I'm so sorry. Please forgive me, Tywin."

He fought through the crippling anger he was feeling to try to be gentle with her. He knew she was not from this time – but she had made such a dangerous mistake today.

"I know. Give me time, Sansa."

She sniffed and gave a sad little nod and then allowed him to help her onto her mount. He brushed a hand up her calf and squeezed, and the watery smile settled something in him.

She was his – to love, to protect, to cherish. And he would lose her if he allowed fury to rule him. He knew that. She needed him to be different than he'd been in the past.

"Keep close to me, Sansa," was all he said getting her promise. She had to know that even angry, she meant everything to him.

He must have said enough, for he saw the hope bloom in her eyes.

Tonight he would speak with her, when they had camped for the night, and try and make her understand. For now, he finally turned away from her to mount his large white warhorse.

When they were finally side by side, he led them out of the stables into the central courtyard. Then with a nod to Lord Stark, Lord Arryn, Lord Tully and the Blackfish, Tywin raised his voice.

"To Casterly Rock; and with haste," he cried, and kicked his horse, knowing Sansa would be by his side; for today and all their days, however long they might have.

He'd ridden to Riverlands, a widowed man, with only hope that he might find the woman who'd haunted his dreams for the past nine months.

A week later, he was going home, married and enraptured with his new wife.

She'd come through time for him, and with the knowledge of how to destroy the Mad King, save his son and seat them on the Iron Throne, where he would secure the legacy of House Lannister for generations to come.