[Winterfell - Great Hall]

As the morning sun streamed through the tall, narrow windows of Winterfell's great hall, King Robb and Queen Morgana of the North sat upon their thrones, surrounded by their most trusted lords and ladies. The air was thick with anticipation as they discussed the recent alliance between their kingdom and Dorne, promising not only military support in the upcoming war against the dead, but also trade opportunities and cultural exchanges to bridge the gap between two regions long misunderstood by much of Westeros.

The prospect of hosting festivals, showcasing their unique customs and traditions, filled many in attendance with excitement. Even the most skeptical among them could not deny the potential benefits such an alliance would bring. As the conversation continued, whispers spread throughout the hall about the possibility of forming similar agreements with the exotic kingdoms across the Narrow Sea, such as the fabled city of Qarth and the free-spirited Summer Islands.

The idea of trading with the wealthy Velaryons of Driftmark was also met with interest, as was their offer to aid in the long-standing conflict over the Stepstones. The thought of reclaiming those strategic waters from the pirates and raiders who had plagued them for generations held great appeal. The North and Dorne might be united in their common goal, but it was clear that there was still much potential for growth and expansion in the years to come.

As the morning wore on, servants flitted in and out of the hall, refilling goblets and bearing trays of sweetmeats and fresh fruits.

The discussion turned to the possibility of sending emissaries to Qarth and the Summer Islands, eager to learn more about their customs and explore potential trade agreements. Some voiced concerns about venturing so far beyond Westeros' borders, while others saw it as an exciting opportunity for growth and discovery.

One particularly bold lord suggested that, in addition to military and trade alliances, they might consider proposing marriages between their noble houses and those of the more exotic kingdoms. The idea was met with mixed reactions, with some arguing that such unions would only serve to strengthen their alliances, while others worried about cultural clashes and the potential for political power plays.

As the debate continued, Queen Morgana rose to her feet, her expression thoughtful. "I believe that such marriages could indeed be beneficial," she began, her voice carrying across the hall, "but we must approach them with caution and respect. We must not forget who we are, nor sacrifice our values in pursuit of alliances. Rather, we should seek partners who share our commitment to justice and honor, and who are willing to embrace our unique customs and traditions as we do theirs."

Her words resonated with many in attendance, and there was a general agreement that the potential benefits of such marriages should not be dismissed outright. As the discussion continued, several lords and ladies volunteered to lead delegations to Qarth, the Summer Islands, and beyond, eager to explore the possibilities that lay beyond Westeros' borders.

Among them was Lord Jonnel Forrester, a seasoned diplomat and veteran of many battles. He spoke at length about the importance of understanding the customs and histories of these foreign lands before entering into any formal agreements. "We must not approach these negotiations as conquerors or colonizers," he cautioned, "but as equals, seeking mutual understanding and respect. Only then can we hope to forge lasting alliances that will benefit us all. The Free Cities are not a monolith," he explained. "Each one has its own agenda, and it's important that we understand those agendas before we decide how, or even if, we should engage with them."

Lady Elissa Dustin, a wise and compassionate woman known for her knowledge of herbal lore and healing arts, volunteered to lead a delegation to the Summer Islands. She spoke of her desire to learn from their ancient wisdom and share our own knowledge of medicine and healing. "The Summer Islanders have long been renowned for their mastery of herbs and poisons," she said, "and I can think of no greater gift to offer them than the knowledge we have gained in protecting our people from such dangers."

The discussion then turned to the potential for trade with Qarth, a city famed for its exotic spices and rare fabrics. Several merchants in attendance spoke of the fortune to be made in importing such goods into Westeros, and of the wealth that could be generated by exporting their own fine wines, cheeses, and craftsmanship in return. One particularly ambitious lord suggested that a new trade route could be forged entirely through the Free Cities, bypassing the Narrow Sea entirely, which would greatly reduce travel time and transportation costs.

Queen Morgana, ever the pragmatist, acknowledged the potential benefits of such a venture but cautioned against rash decisions. "While I am eager to see our economy thrive, we must also consider the potential risks involved," she said. "The Free Cities are notoriously unpredictable, and any agreement we make with them must be carefully negotiated to ensure our interests are protected." She gestured to Lord Jonnel Forrester, who nodded in agreement.

As the discussion continued, the question of military alliances with the other kingdoms was raised once more. Several lords and ladies argued that it was essential to maintain a strong military presence in the North and Dorne, not only to defend against external threats but also to maintain order within their own borders. Lord Forrester spoke of the need for unity among their forces, emphasizing the importance of training and discipline in preparation for any future conflicts.

Meanwhile, once she got the go-ahead, Lady Dustin began making preparations for her journey to the Summer Islands, assembling a diverse group of scholars, healers, and diplomats to accompany her. She hoped that this delegation would not only strengthen ties with the Summer Islanders but also provide valuable insights into their culture and history.

As the discussions continued, Queen Morgana listened intently, taking note of each lord and lady's concerns and suggestions. She knew that navigating the complex web of alliances and agreements would not be easy, but she was determined to forge a path forward that would benefit all of Westeros.

One particularly interesting proposal came from Ser Garlan Rivers, a seasoned warrior with a reputation for fairness and diplomacy. He suggested that they create an alliance not only with the other kingdoms, but also with the great houses within their own realm. "By fostering cooperation and mutual respect among our own people, we can strengthen our bonds and present a united front to any potential enemies," he explained. "This would also ensure that our interests are well-represented in any future negotiations."

Queen Morgana nodded thoughtfully. "This is indeed an intriguing proposal," she said. "I believe it has merit, and I would like to explore this idea further. Let us consider creating a council of lords and ladies from each region, who can meet regularly to discuss our shared concerns and work together towards common goals." She turned to Lord Jonnel Forrester, asking him to take the lead on organizing such a council.

Morgana then decided to reveal her plans for constructing a greenhouse. One to start, and hopefully more in the future.

This greenhouse would be designed to house crops that typically thrived in more southern regions, allowing them to be grown in the North, in a controlled environment. This would be of immense help to the people of the North, as it would ensure that they would have access to a variety of foods even during harsh winters.

The greenhouse would also serve as a symbol of hope and progress, showcasing Morgana's forward-thinking leadership. It was envisioned as a place where research could be conducted on new agricultural techniques, further improving the yields and resilience of crops. Moreover, the greenhouse would provide employment opportunities for those skilled in horticulture, helping to revitalize the economy of the North.

Queen Morgana's announcement was met with enthusiasm and gratitude from the lords and ladies of the North. They recognized the potential benefits of such an endeavor and saw it as a tangible sign that their queen truly cared about their well-being. Lord Jonnel Forrester, who had long been an advocate for agricultural reform, praised the queen's vision and pledged his full support in making the greenhouse a reality.

The greenhouse would be built by the people, for the people, using the abundance of natural resources at their disposal.

Morgana's vision for the greenhouse extended beyond mere agricultural development. She envisioned it as a symbol of unity and shared prosperity among the northerners. The construction of the greenhouse would require cooperation and teamwork among different guilds and communities, fostering a sense of pride and belonging among the citizens. The greenhouse would become a hub of activity, where farmers, artisans, and scientists could come together to exchange ideas and learn from one another.

To further cement this sense of unity, Morgana announced that she would personally oversee the construction of the first greenhouse, alongside a select group of skilled craftsmen and women from various guilds. This would serve as an opportunity for her to connect with her subjects on a more personal level and demonstrate her commitment to their welfare. As they worked side by side, the queen and her people would forge strong bonds of friendship and trust that would endure long after the greenhouse's completion.

Before they could delve any deeper into the matter, however, a shrill scream echoed through the halls, seemingly emanating from the direction of their private chambers.

Robb and Morgana exchanged alarmed glances before springing to their feet, followed by several of their most loyal guards.

As they raced towards their private chambers, the sounds of commotion grew louder. When they burst through the doors, their hearts dropped to their stomachs. There, in the center of the room, lay Sirena, one of Morgana's closest friends and handmaidens, blood pouring from a gaping wound in her side. The source of the wound was clear: two men, both armed with knives, were attempting to stab their sons, Eddard and Robert, who sat, peering out of their cradles.

Robb's protective instincts took over, and he lunged forward, pushing the two men away from his children. One of the assailants managed to land a glancing blow on his arm before being overpowered by several guards.

Morgana, her eyes glowing with an unnatural light, focused her energy on the other man. She felt the air around her shift and grow cold as she forced him to drop his knife. As he stumbled back, she snapped her fingers, and a blast of icy wind sent him flying across the room, colliding with a table and knocking over a vase.

Robb, his heart pounding, cradled his sons close while glancing worriedly at Morgana. The guards had already secured the first man and were holding him firmly against the wall.

Sirena, her breath coming in ragged gasps, clutched at her wound, blood pooling beneath her. "It's alright, my lady," she managed to whisper, her voice weak from loss of blood. "I'll be fine."

Morgana's expression softened as she knelt beside her friend, gently brushing a lock of hair from her forehead. "You saved my sons," she whispered, her voice choked with emotion. "I can't begin to thank you."

As the guards led the two assailants away, their questions filling the air, Robb remained cradling his children, his eyes never leaving the blood staining the floor. "What could have driven them to this, Morgana?" he asked, his voice raw with anger and fear. "They are only babies."

Morgana shook her head, her expression grim. "I don't know, my love," she replied softly. "But we will find out." She turned her attention back to Sirena, who was being tended to by the castle's healer. The wound was deep, but not life-threatening. "I will see to it that these men are brought to justice," she promised, her voice echoing through the chamber.

Robb nodded, his eyes still fixed on his children. "And I will make sure that our guard is doubled from now on. We cannot take any chances with their safety."

Morgana glanced at her husband, a look of concern etched on her features. "Yes, we must. But we must also be careful not to raise them in fear. They must know that they are loved and protected, always."

She turned her attention back to Sirena. "You are a brave woman, Sirena," she murmured, her voice thick with emotion. "I cannot begin to express my gratitude for what you have done today."

As the healer worked to staunch the blood flow and tend to Sirena's wound, Morgana glanced at the two boys in their father's arms. They were safe now, but the memory of their tiny forms shaking with fear would haunt her for days to come. She vowed to do everything in her power to protect them from harm, to make sure they grew up in a world where they could live their lives to the fullest, free from the shadow of violence and danger.

Whoever was responsible would regret messing with the family of Princess Morgana Baratheon.

The healer worked quickly and efficiently, tending to Sirena's wound and administering a potion to help slow the blood loss. As she worked, the guards interrogated the two men, trying to discover their motives and any potential connections to a larger threat. The castle was put on high alert, and extra guards were posted at every entrance and exit.

Morgana, her heart racing from both the adrenaline of the confrontation and the fear for her friend's life, remained at Sirena's side. She watched as the healer worked, feeling helpless and angry.

"They were going to kill them," she whispered, her voice trembling. "Why would anyone do such a thing?"

Morgana squeezed her friend's hand gently. "We will find out, I promise," she said, her voice steady despite the fear that still lurked in the pit of her stomach. "And whoever is responsible will be brought to justice."

The healer finished her work and stood back, nodding to Morgana. "She'll be fine, Your Grace" she said, her voice reassuring. "But she'll need rest and time to heal."

Robb nodded gratefully, still cradling his children close. His eyes were red-rimmed from tears, but there was a newfound determination in his gaze. "We'll make sure she has all the rest she needs," he said quietly. "And we'll find out who was behind this."

Morgana looked at her husband, her heart aching for him. "Yes," she said softly. "We will." She glanced over at Sirena, who was being escorted to a private chamber by two of the castle's maids. "She saved our children's lives today," she murmured, her voice thick with emotion. "I don't know how we can ever repay her."

Robb nodded, his expression solemn. "We'll make sure she knows how grateful we are," he said. "And we'll keep an eye on her until this is all over. Whoever sent those men will not get away with it." He looked down at his children, cradled in his arms, and smiled weakly. "And we'll make sure our little ones are safe too."

Little Robert reached out for his mother, while his twin, Eddard, remained content in his father's arms.

Morgana took her son's tiny hand and kissed it gently,accepting him into her arms, her heart swelling with love and gratitude for Sirena. "You are so brave," she murmured, her eyes filling with tears. "Both of you, my sweet boys."

The sound of someone clearing their throat caused them to jump.

In the doorway stood one of the guards who had apprehended the two would-be assassins.

"Their tongues have been cut out," he informed them grimly. "So they can't speak. We've searched them, but we can't find any writing or clues as to who sent them."

Morgana's heart sank at the news. It seemed their efforts to uncover the truth would be hampered by the silence of the men. She glanced at her husband, who looked equally concerned. "This doesn't make sense," she murmured, shaking her head. "Why would someone send men to kill innocent children?"

The guard who had delivered the news shifted uncomfortably. "I'm afraid that is exactly what we're trying to determine, Your Grace," he said. "We've searched their belongings and questioned them as best we could, but without their tongues, we're left with little information."

Robb nodded, his expression grim. "Perhaps there's something we're missing," he mused. "Something that could explain why someone would want to harm our children."

"What if Eddard and Robert weren't their only targets?" Morgana speculated.

Robb frowned. "What do you mean, my love?"

"Think about it. Any loving parent would come running if they believed their children were in danger. What if this attack was meant for you and I as well?"

It was a daunting prospect. One that could not be confirmed or denied.

"Say what you want about my mother," she continued. "But there is no way she is responsible for this. No way she would order the murders of her only grandchildren."

Morgana's mother, Cersei Lannister was known to be cunning and vengeful. But, she was also known for the love she bore her children; only two of which remain, Morgana and Myrcella.

But, if it wasn't her, then who else could it be? And why?

The question hung heavy in the air as they pondered the possibility that this attack was not an isolated incident but part of a larger, more sinister plot. Robb and Morgana exchanged worried glances, their minds racing with the implications.

If this was part of a larger conspiracy, when would the next attack occur? And to whom?

So many questions, with such little time to answer them.