A/N: Thanks for the reviews! This chapter is a long one. I'm working on the next chapter of the other long fic (for those wondering).

ARYA

Sansa came to Arya's chambers later in the evening. Arya did not want to let her in. She did not want to see anybody but after Sansa knocked again Arya relented.

"The prince told me I might find you here," Sansa explained.

Arya felt alarmed. "Aegon sent you?"

Sansa shook her head. Her cheeks flushed slightly pink.

"Prince Lucerys escorted me."

"Oh," Arya fell silent. Sansa fidgeted with her hands. "Luke is gentle but you best not get attached. The king will promise him to somebody he needs." Arya knew that was how royal marriages worked. Jon told her about it when Viserys broke the betrothal to Princess Arianne. The match between Aegon and Visenya was the only exception. Sansa still looked crushed.

"He is beautiful and kind," she whispered. "It doesn't seem fair."

Arya remembered the supper, what Visenya said and Aegon's behaviour. She took a deep breath, roughly wiping at her eyes.

"It isn't fair."

Sansa produced a silken handkerchief and passed it to her.

"The princess," she faltered. "What she said was uncharitable."

Arya flung her arms around her sister. Sansa's response was awkward, as though she did not know how to accept the hug.

"Will you stay here with me?" Arya blurted. "We could share a bedchamber like we did when we were small."

Sansa smoothed Arya's hair. "I will stay. I wish to hear more about the court. You did not tell all in your letters."

When they were huddled together in the bed, Arya saw Sansa watching her by the light of the candle. They talked in soft voices for a time. Arya chose her words carefully, telling Sansa what her sister needed to hear and no more.

"Father says you look like Aunt Lyanna," Sansa suddenly blurted. "I heard him speaking with our cousin."

Arya frowned. "Jon told me." That was a long time ago now. She did not believe it then and she did not believe it now. "Lyanna was beautiful."

Sansa must have heard the disbelief in Arya's voice. "Father has no reason to lie."

Arya thought about all she had learned in Kings Landing but she suppressed her retort.

Everybody lies. Her father had even said so once. Some lies are not without honour. Her sister did not need to hear that. While Sansa did not know she might be happy. Arya envied that but she did not wish to take it away.

AEGON

Aegon felt shame every time he remembered the way Arya had looked at him. For half a heartbeat he thought she kissed him back. She only wishes to be my friend. He was so angry with his sister. Arya remained distant for a day but he did not see Jon either.

They are spending the time with their kin.

Aegon had his own kin visiting the city. Oberyn Martell attended the tourney. He also brought three of Aegon's cousins with him. Obara, Nymeria and Elia did not linger long in their father's presence. Prince Oberyn seemed to care little but Aegon tried to keep a watch on them.

"My daughters will not endanger your alliances Aegon."

Oberyn had that mischievous glint in his eye. Aegon shook his head. He remembered his wild young cousin and her fondness for a certain type of man. The curious questions she asked about his brother sprang to mind.

"That is not what I fear. Elia may have been a poor choice."

His uncle shook his head. "I do not care if the memory of your mother troubles the king." His dark eyes flashed dangerously. "It should trouble him."

Aegon bristled at the assumption. "I care little for that myself. I would never suggest my mother be forgotten."

The Red Viper grinned. "Are you afraid they will discover who that ribbon belongs to?"

Aegon flushed. The four of them had been merciless the previous day. He did not doubt that a wager had been made. Fortunately they were looking for the lady in question amongst the onlookers in the stands. Only Elia moved amongst the competitors and she did not seem to see Arya.

"Let it rest Uncle."

Oberyn smiled again. "Where would be the fun in that?"


His true fears about Elia came to fruition the following day. Jon emerged, bringing the rest of the Starks out of hiding. Elia had managed to find her way into his brother's company even quicker than he expected. His cousin had her arm through Jon's and Jon was laughing. Arya was looking at them with a bewildered expression.

Not him, he mouthed to Elia. His cousin simply grinned. Aegon's shoulders slumped. He still remembered finding her in his own chambers in Dorne. He refused her mostly on account of fearing his uncle's wrath. Elia informed him she lost her maidenhead at the age of fourteen. It did not change Aegon's mind.

Arya is fourteen. The thought came to him unbidden and he pushed it away. The very idea of it made him feel ashamed all over again, especially with Arya being so close. Eddard Stark approached him with his daughters in tow. Lady Sansa offered Aegon a radiant smile. Arya avoided meeting his eye.

"I pray that you enjoyed the tourney, my lord," he managed.

Lord Eddard was both as solemn and polite as expected. "You performed admirably, your grace."

Lady Sansa was still gazing at him. "I hoped you might win your grace. Arya said that Ser Loras did not joust with honour."

Arya looked furious. "Sansa," she hissed. Lord Eddard wore a pained expression. Jon's expression matched that of his uncle.

Nobody is meant to speak of Arya's attendance.

Aegon laughed to break the tension. He did not doubt Arya had used far more colourful language.

"Ser Loras rode better on the day."

Lady Sansa smiled. Aegon caught Elia's eye and he saw his cousin smiled too though far less innocently than Lady Sansa.

She is too clever.

"Mayhaps you might introduce Jon to Prince Oberyn, Lady Elia," Aegon suggested.

His brother had been interested to meet his uncle for some time, even if he did not speak of it. Elia frowned for a moment.

"We had other plans in mind."

I do not doubt it cousin. Sansa Stark saved him the trouble of trying to find another excuse. Her face lit up.

"It would be splendid to meet Prince Oberyn, your grace."

Arya did not manage to hide her grin. Elia sighed. "Very well then." The look in her dark eyes told him that she was disgruntled with him but she took Sansa's arm without relinquishing her hold on Jon. "My father will find you charming, my lady."

Sansa looked so happy. Arya began to follow them but Aegon did not wish for her to leave without speaking to him. He cleared his throat.

"Lord Eddard, may I speak for a moment with Lady Arya?"

Arya gave him a dark look. Eddard Stark appeared surprised but not suspicious. He nodded.

"I must speak with Lord Renly, your grace."

Aegon watched Arya's father take his leave. Elia looked at him curiously and he wanted to curse. If Jon had not continued walking no doubt his cousin would have stayed and included herself in the conversation. As it was she cast another glance over her shoulder and he felt certain she was inspecting Arya's hair.

I still have the ribbon.

Arya had not asked for it back. She stood before him now, her eyes lowered. Her gown was made of dark silk, more modest than any Visenya wore. She looked very pale. It only made her look even more lovely with her big dark eyes and her hair framing her face. It was untamed again, much like the rest of her.

"I fear my cousin is fond of Jon," he remarked.

Arya raised her eyes and frowned. "Jon isn't interested in girls. He has never shown any interest."

Aegon wanted to laugh. Whenever Jon was in Arya's company his sole focus was his cousin. When Arya was not present Jon was not a septon, even if he did not appear to have a paramour. His urge to laugh died when Arya dropped her eyes again. He knew she thought of his unwelcome advance.

"Forgive me," he whispered. "I meant no harm."

She offered him a smile so sad it hurt. "I forgive you." She hesitantly took his arm. "I won't forgive Visenya. She is ruining Sansa's visit."

It was such a typical response he did not know whether to laugh or curse. Instead he did neither and silently thanked the gods that Arya did not shun him.

I will not forgive Visenya either.

ARYA

Her family's visit was passing too quickly. A week seemed to fly by. Jon knew of what happened with Visenya at the supper. He helped Arya arrange for Sansa to spend minimal time with the princess. Instead Sansa took a walk in the gardens with Aegon while Arya went riding with Jon and Bran and other visitors to Kings Landing. Her father smiled to see her in her leathers upon her return.

"I see you have changed far less than I might have believed."

Arya did not know what he meant until he reached out and touched her cheek. His fingers came away dirty.

"There are apple trees by the road," she explained quickly. "The best ones are on the branches closer to the top."

Eddard Stark laughed and then Arya knew she wasn't in trouble. Jon indulged her and Bran had wanted to climb even more than she did. Her lord father put his hand on her shoulder.

"What did the rest of your company think of this?"

Arya chewed her lip. "They seemed happy enough once we picked apples for them too. Brynden remarked on how quick I am. I wasn't even trying to be quick."

Her father smiled at that. He seemed to like Brynden Blackwood. Arya liked him well enough. He told her stories of her mother's family. The Blackwoods were sworn to the Tullys. Brynden wasn't as handsome as Aegon or as clever as Jon but his eyes seemed kind. Sansa interrupted their conversation.

"Prince Aegon doesn't like him."

Arya shot her a look. Sansa had been happy when they returned and full of stories about the prince and the people he introduced her to.

"Aegon liked him well enough when they met."

Sansa shook her head. "The prince frowned when I spoke of your companions. He is too well bred to speak against Ser Brynden but he did not appear happy."

Jon's face had gone very still. Arya sensed he knew something. Her father appeared about to speak but Jon broke the silence first.

"I was surprised Lady Elia did not accompany us."

Sansa nodded. "Lady Elia wished to join the prince for tea. We had pastries but no lemon cakes. She asked me about the ribbon in my hair. She asked if you had one like it. The Prince became quite vexed with her. I believe he wanted to speak of more important matters than hair ornaments."

Arya tried to mimic the guarded face Jon made but she was not certain she succeeded. Her father's confusion confirmed her failure.

"Is this something I need be concerned about?"

Arya looked at Jon and they both spoke together. "No." It was enough to make both of them grin even though Arya turned away to hide hers.

She knew of the wager. Aegon pretended the kiss did not happen. It suited Arya. She did not want him to keep feeling sorry for her. She liked it better when he told her secrets and they laughed together. Arya quite liked evading his cousin's questions. It helped her put Syrio's lessons into practice, the ones he taught her which did not require the use of a sword.

Jon frowned a little when they were alone and her father could not see. Arya sat with him and leaned against his shoulder.

"You worry too much. It is only a ribbon."

He mussed her hair. It was already mussed. Arya cared little. When she moved, putting her arm around him and resting her chin on his shoulder he seemed deep in thought. He did not speak until she poked him.

"What do you think Elia will want for her win?"

Arya lifted her head, cocking it to the side as she mulled over it.

"Whatever it is I think I'd like one too." Jon grinned at her and Arya couldn't help frowning. "You like her."

Jon went a little red and Arya knew she hit a nerve.

"It is easy to like her." He smiled again. "She reminds me of you."


Arya wanted to show her father her water dancing before he left. She faced off against Syrio, pausing a moment before they began to see that her father watched. He did but he had company. A number of men gathered at the benches. Arya saw Aegon's silvery gold hair and recognised Oberyn Martell's form, the copper suns on his person glinting in the light. She saw some of her new friends, Brynden Blackwood and Elia Sand amongst them.

Syrio's blade flashed through the air and Arya quickly evaded it. She knew she could not beat him. That was not the point. Her father need only see what she learned. The others did not matter. She balanced on the balls of her feet, repeating the lessons to herself as she looked and anticipated and dodged. She lunged and slashed and parried.

Quick as a snake, quiet as a shadow, calm as still water.

Syrio's blade was blunt. It would not hurt her. Arya still did not let it touch her. She was determined not to shame herself. Visenya made her feel like a mouse. Arya was not a mouse. Arya was a wolf and now was the time she could show that. With Syrio she felt free and for a little while it was as though she had wings.

Fierce as a wolverine, swift as a deer, strong as a bear.

She darted across the yard, jumped across benches, laughed as Syrio pursued her. A small smile tugged at his lips too. He enjoys this. Arya heard the onlookers but she let the sound pass by her. It did not matter. All that mattered was the dance. One slip was all it took and Arya saw an opening and lunged. Syrio ducked and pivoted gracefully and she felt the jab from the blunted sword.

"You are dead."

Arya grinned and bowed to him. "I almost got you that time.

Syrio smiled. "Just so."

The applause startled her. "They should not clap. I did not win."

Syrio clacked his teeth. "There are different kinds of winning. A girl needs to be looking."

"I look," she protested.

He shook his head. "You are a clever child but you still do not see."

Arya fought not to be sullen. She almost won. She saw everything up to that last move. I do see. Her lord father smiled too when she joined him.

"What did you think father?" she asked him shyly.

He patted the spot beside him on the bench and spoke in a lowered voice just for her.

"I think that if you could fight all your battles here with your sword I would have nothing to fear."

Arya loved him for it. She only wished he could stay. Then she would not have to be afraid ever again. She gave the others who watched a brief smile before leaving with her father. Everything he told her she kept stored away.

I am a wolf. I am a Stark. I will be strong,


She lingered in the stables after the farewells. It hurt seeing her family leave. Sansa wept and pleaded to stay but Arya knew her father made the right decision. One Stark hostage was enough. Arya knew what her life must be like. Sansa did not see it, her sister would not understand Arya's desperate wish to go back to Winterfell with them. Arya knew what it would return to now that the guests began to leave the city. Visenya would not have so many witnesses to her behaviour.

She will want to punish me for my insolence.

Dancer whickered as she approached the stall. Arya offered the treat in her hand, mindful that they were not alone. She often liked to tell the horse the things that bothered her. Now was not the time.

"I know you are there," she said. "You may as well show yourself."

Oberyn Martell emerged from the shadows. For a heartbeat Arya wondered if he might be angry at the way she spoke to him. Instead it seemed to amuse him.

"My nephew spoke truth," he told her. "You and this filly are well suited."

Arya stroked Dancer's neck, speaking softly as the horse tossed her head and snorted.

"We understand one another."

Prince Oberyn's dark eyes flashed with something. His mouth curved into a half smile. He seemed to be laughing at her.

"I am not sure that is true."

Arya eyed him warily. Dancer fussed in her stall and Arya stepped away, sensing the Dornish prince did not speak of horses.

"Do you wish to ask me something Prince Oberyn?"

Oberyn laughed. "You say that as though it is a challenge. I like that." He stepped forward to inspect Dancer. The filly snorted at him. "She wants a mate," he observed. He cast an eye over Arya and she felt a little as though he judged her similarly to the horse. "Have any tried?"

Arya shook her head. "Dancer is not ready for that." She pulled herself to her full height at his smile. "When she wants I will let her choose."

The prince seemed even more amused. "Choosing has its own dangers." He ran his hand down Dancer's blaze. The filly tossed her head rather violently and Arya grinned as the prince backed away with a curse. He regained his composure quickly, leaning against a different stall and looking her over again. "Aegon is well loved in Dorne. I think they would forgive him almost anything."

Arya frowned. "Aegon will not need forgiveness." She moved a little to lean against a stall opposite the prince. "He told me how fond he is of Dorne."

Oberyn did not smile but his tone contained laughter. "Of course he did." He did not look away and Arya had that feeling she sometimes got from men, the feeling that they were seeing something they were not supposed to see. "Tell me, do you think Dorne will love the princess?"

Arya scowled and the words were out before she could stop herself.

"Dorne will love Visenya as much as Visenya loves Dorne."

The prince grinned. "I find you to be quite charming Lady Arya. You must visit us some time. My daughter Elia is almost as fond of you as my nephew."

Arya bit her lip. She wanted to go so badly.

"You know I can't leave. You know why I am here."

Oberyn moved away from the stall and towards her. The expression he wore reminded her very much of others calling him the Red Viper. For a moment she thought he might try to touch her but he stopped before making the attempt. Arya let out the breath she did not realise she had been holding and he smiled again.

"You are almost as clever as you are pretty. I am sure you will find a way."

He left her there feeling completely confused. Only her father and Jon ever said she was pretty. She dwelled on that part less though.

He thinks there is a way to be free.

AEGON

Brynden Blackwood lingered in Kings Landing long after the other guests left. Aegon knew why. He was not the only one. Aegon sat in council with his father and there was discussion of the matches and possible matches. He knew that Mace Tyrell turned down Aemon for his daughter Margaery. Tywin Lannister proposed his son Tyrion for Arya.

The king sighed. "I do not see that this is our concern. Lord Stark raises no objection to the Blackwood suit. He will oppose any match his daughter dislikes."

Lord Connington frowned. "The match must not give strength to those who rebelled. The right betrothal to a girl with her blood might strengthen friendships."

Aegon tried to choose his words carefully. "The Lannisters are already close friends." He wanted to tell them Arya was not a horse and that her bloodlines did not matter. He knew it was not the truth though.

His father held a scroll in his hand. It took him a long while to answer.

"You are both right. It will matter little. None of this is of importance."

Aegon struggled to hold his tongue. It was important. His royal father had that look about him again, that incredible sadness which took him to Summerhall. Aegon knew then that he would not make the decision. The King turned to his Hand.

"My lord, will you make the necessary arrangements?"

Aegon stood. "Lady Arya will not take kindly to being matched with somebody she is not suited to."

Lord Connington set his pale blue eyes on him. "Lady Arya will do the duty required of her."

Part of Aegon wanted to protest further. He looked along the table and saw curious faces looking at him. He took his leave instead. Jon met him in the courtyard.

"Should I ask?"

Aegon grimaced. "I think the Tyrell's want you to wed Lady Margaery."

Jon looked as displeased as Aegon expected.

"I would have expected them to be happy with Aemon. There are no whispers about his birth."

Aegon did not know what to say so he ignored it.

"They want the second son, not the third. They are ambitious." Aegon served in Highgarden as a youth. He remembered Lord Mace pairing him with Lady Margaery often. "I believe they have heard of Visenya. Mayhaps they think she will take me out of the line of succession."

Jon did not laugh at the jape.

"Will father agree?"

Aegon shook his head.

"The queen is offended. There will be no Highgarden match for a time. There has been no talk of other matches for you. Father does not wish to make decisions just now."

As hard as Jon usually was to read, Aegon recognised this expression. His brother knew their father's moods as well as he. Silence lingered between them. Aegon knew what they both wished to speak of. He did not want to raise the topic. Jon seemed just as reluctant. Aegon broke first.

"Lord Tywin requested Arya be betrothed to his son."

Jon's expression darkened. "Tyrion is my favourite Lannister but he is not for my cousin. She seems fond of Ser Brynden."

The fact had not escaped Aegon's notice.

"I did not think she wished to marry."

Jon scowled. "You know as well as I how much she wishes to be free of our sister. Raventree Hall takes her closer to the North. Ser Brynden will be lord there one day."

Aegon felt the bitterness against his sister rising. It was enough that he must endure her.

"I suppose it will be a good match if it brings her happiness."

He tried to ignore the feeling in his chest as he said it.

ARYA

It took Arya longer than she cared to admit to realise that she truly had suitors. Visenya's insults rang in her head long after she said them. The princess now told it differently.

"Somebody will marry you for your blood if nothing else. They do not care if you are from a traitor rebel family. House Stark is still a Great House."

Arya almost quarrelled with her again over speaking that way about her family. She decided after seeing Jon in the godswood that it did not matter. Her cousin seemed burdened. They prayed together a while before she pried it from him.

"My father has been discussing betrothals."

"Oh," Arya did not know what to say. "Did you want to marry Elia?"

Jon looked startled for a moment before he laughed. It sounded a little bitter.

"Princes do not marry bastards, not even bastard princes."

Arya wanted to scold him for saying it. Instead she hugged him.

"It wasn't always like this. Ser Barristan told me that the last Aegon married for love. All of his children did too. I do not see why you cannot do the same. The King is being unfair."

Jon tightened his grip on her before letting her go.

"Why are you asking Ser Barristan about marriage? Ser Barristan is old and with his vows he looks frightened if a woman with a low cut gown gets too close."

Arya laughed and gave him a smack in the arm.

"Don't be cruel. He is my friend."

She did not tell Jon all of it. She could not tell him all of it. He would not understand. Arya did not understand. She just knew that Visenya emerged from her chambers with swollen lips when Arya delivered her new gowns to her. Arya knew what it meant from when Rhaenys used to meet with Viserys in secret.

She and Aegon are betrothed. It is not wrong.

It still gave Arya a strange feeling in her stomach. She remembered Aegon kissing her, even though she was supposed to forget. It made her wonder again why he kissed her. It made her wonder why he kissed Visenya. He does not love her. Arya knew that for a certainty.

"You should marry Elia," she decided. "If that is what you want."

Jon laughed softly this time, more a chuckle.

"Elia and I have no wish to be married. We are only friends." He sighed. "I will miss you when you marry and leave me." He grinned. "I should marry you instead."

Arya stuck her tongue out at him.

"It would make things easier but you snore far too much. I remember from Winterfell."

Jon began to tickle her then and she laughed and broke free of him. They settled down together before the tree again.

I do not want to marry Jon or Brynden but I want to be free.

She did not want to leave Jon in order to gain that freedom.


Ser Brynden left abruptly. A conflict had begun in the Riverlands. A gang of outlaws began to cause trouble. He had begun to spend less time with her anyway. Arya wondered what she did wrong. She still had Elmar Frey finding his way into her company and Lancel Lannister had begun to seek her too. She did not like either of them nearly so much as Ser Brynden.

Aegon found her in the garden on a rare reprieve from Visenya's errands. He seemed to hesitate before sitting beside her.

"You are troubled."

Arya did not know whether to speak of it to him. She only thought on it a moment before deciding she must. Aegon was her friend. They had spoken of marriage and expectations plenty before. She explained it to him. Aegon's expression looked pained.

"Did you wish to marry Ser Brynden?" he asked.

Arya chewed her lip. "No," she said slowly. "Visenya was angry. She wanted me to leave with him." She dropped her voice to a whisper. "I don't want any of them. I just want to be allowed to be me. I don't think they really understand. Ser Brynden seemed to come close though."

Aegon nodded.

"He may return when there is a peace in the Riverlands. Lord Connington opposed the match on account of the Blackwoods allying with the rebels but if you wish it-"

Arya put her hand on his.

"I want to travel like I told you. I want somebody who will listen to me the way my father listens to my lady mother. I want to matter."

Aegon gave her one of his bright smiles.

"You will always matter Arya."

She remembered Visenya's glares and the secret kisses she was not supposed to know about and took her hand back.

"I am not certain that is true. Lord Connington will not think so if he is a part in arranging my betrothal."

Aegon pressed his mouth into an unhappy line. He did not say any more and Arya did not know what else to say. She saw Ser Arthur frown and followed his gaze. A glimpse of golden hair told her Visenya had finished her training. Arya rose and left in the other direction, hoping to avoid notice.

JON

Jon knew his brother thought himself clever. He watched as three moons passed and Lord Connington became vexed. Every suitor for Arya had a mysterious change of heart. Jon confronted Aegon after one rather obvious incident in which his brother made mock of Elmar Frey in front of Arya and a group of young nobles.

"You are not usually so cruel."

Aegon became defensive. "I might not have had to be if he did not presume so much."

Jon raised an eyebrow. "What is it that you think he presumes?"Aegon did not answer him. "You do know that Arya will marry."

Aegon frowned. "She does not want to marry Elmar. She told me."

Jon sighed. He felt a rush of gratitude to his brother for the intervention. Jon might have made some effort himself but he did not have the same influence at court. Even so it was getting out of hand.

"Be mindful you do not make enemies Aegon."

Jon had the distinct impression that his brother paid him no mind. Enemies were not a concern for his brother. Aegon was loved in Dorne. The Westerlands adored him after his time squiring there. His stint as a youth in Highgarden had garnered friendships. The nobles at court flocked around him and Aegon counted Lord Renly Baratheon and Robb Stark as friends. There were whispers, whispers only but some said he would make a better king than Rhaegar.

Aegon does not have his head full of prophecies.

The king was too preoccupied with matters he spoke of to no one. He sent supplies and men to the Wall, a cause Jon appreciated but many resented. Rumours of Visenya's behaviour were spreading. Jon attended at court and he and Aegon both looked at one another when a drunken petitioner managed to trip and spill something on the princess.

"You have ruined my gown," she shrieked.

Arya whispered something to one of the ladies. She moved to aid the princess and ducked as Visenya hurled the flagon which once belonged to the unlucky man in the direction of Arya's head.

"You won't be able to fix it. I want him punished."

The court came to a standstill. Lord Connington sat the Iron Throne in the King's absence. He gave Visenya a hard look.

"The princess has not been well," Arya said quickly. "Mayhaps she might rest a while."

Jon heard Aegon groan beside him. Arya will be punished for that. In the meantime Lord Connington nodded to Ser Arthur and Ser Barristan and the two knights escorted the princess from the court. Arya bent before the drunken man, murmuring to him and helping him up. Jon saw that her own gown bore stains but Arya paid it no mind. He watched as Arya walked through the throne room.

The petitioners offered her smiles and spoke to her as she passed. She answered every one, highborn and lowborn alike. With Visenya absent Arya did not cower. She offered little kindnesses to the children and the old. For others Jon could see she japed. He heard more than one laugh.

"They love her."

Aegon's answer was no more than a whisper. "Arya is easy to love,"

Jon turned to look at his brother. Aegon's gaze was fixed on Arya, a soft smile tugging at his lips. Jon had seen the looks, the ones Aegon tried to hide from him. He knew Aegon wanted to bed his cousin. He now realised it was much more than that.

"Is that the true reason why you keep sabotaging her suitors?"

Aegon flushed. "They will not make her happy. If she chooses one I will not oppose it." His mouth twisted. "I want her to be happier than I will be."

He still intends to marry Visenya.

Jon wanted to feel relief. He did not think his brother would wrong Arya. He looked across the court and saw her returning to her place. Her eyes scanned the faces and she smiled. For a moment Jon thought the smile was for him. It wasn't. Arya's gaze was firmly settled on Aegon. Jon began to feel alarmed.

"Does she return your affections?"

Aegon's response was bitter. "She does not. Do not fear brother. We will do our duty."


The question of duty plagued Jon. Lord Connington demanded an audience with him, Aegon, Aemon and Luke. Aemon seemed more sober than usual and rather resentful. Luke sat straight and wore an unhappy expression. The queen took a place of honour. The members of the small council joined them.

"I do not see this to be necessary," Aemon complained. "Mother has shouted at plenty of drunken fools and you all paid it no mind. I should know."

Jon narrowed his eyes. The jape was not unusual, the defensive tone was. Aemon never showed any special desire to protect Visenya before. Lord Connington dismissed the complaint.

"The queen keeps her disagreements private. The princess did not. Her temper is becoming well known."

Cersei scowled and Jon knew that this would not go well. Aegon did not heed the warning.

"Some in Fleabottom speak of the possibility of a mad queen. Father is risking a lot of trouble by not bringing her to heel when I first gave him warning."

"Who speaks of her in this way?" Cersei hissed. "I want names. I will have their tongues out."

Aegon snorted. "You will have an awfully large collection of tongues."

"Enough!" Lord Connington demanded. "It is enough that the common people speak without respect. The princess will stay in the Maidenvault for a time with the septas. Mayhaps the confinement will remind her of her courtesies. Prince Aegon you best remember yours."

Aegon frowned. "I apologise my lord." He nodded stiffly to Cersei. The queen's green eyes still glittered with anger.

"This will not stand," she said in a low voice still seething with anger. "I will speak with the king upon his return."

She swept from the room. Aemon rose and took his leave to follow her. Luke remained and Lord Connington cleared his throat.

"There is another matter we must attend to. Tensions have risen in the Riverlands and the Vale. Both regions resist the new taxes. The mountain clans are troubling the Vale. The outlaws will not stand down in the Riverlands. We will have to send aid."

Jon shot to his feet. "I will go."

Jon wanted to see more of the realm. He listened to Aegon's tales of the West and of Dorne. Arya always wanted to know more and Aegon indulged her. Jon never had the opportunity. He saw one now and he took it. He only remembered his cousin after the words were out of his mouth.

"That would please the queen," Lord Connington replied.

She thinks she might be rid of me. Jon bristled at the very idea. He had trained for this. He had trained for years. Lord Connington looked hesitant.

"Ser Arthur has seen me in the yard. I am ready."

Lord Connington studied him. "The crown is not on good terms with either region."

Jon understood. The Riverlands and the Vale had both been neglected. The tension from the rebellion remained, even if there had not been open dissent. Aegon put his hand on Jon's arm. Jon looked down at his brother and sat again. The members of the council were already murmuring their agreement but Aegon gave voice to what Jon knew they whispered.

"It might serve. The Tullys have ties to the Starks. Jon will be more welcome than any other in our family."

Agreement was reached swiftly. Jon's head spun with memories of the tales of the Smiling Knight and the Kingswood Brotherhood. He felt excitement and anticipation until he met with Arya and saw her face fall at the news.

"I want to go with you," she pleaded.

She clung to him as he made her promises. "I will be back. Lord Connington has taken measures to contain Visenya. You won't even notice my absence. All that time to do whatever you like. I know you. You will have made even more friends when I return. You will have no time for me."

Arya shook her head and pressed her face against his shoulder.

"I will always have time for you. Is Aegon leaving too?"

The relief she showed at his answer troubled him. "Aegon will have duties," he warned her. "You must not impose on him."

Arya looked confused. "I never imposed before."

Jon sighed. "If there is trouble you must write me."

He extracted the promise and left her with a heavy heart. When he met with his brother to farewell him he embraced him fiercely.

"Do what you must to protect Arya but do no more."

He felt Aegon tense.

"I promise," he murmured solemnly. "Arya need not fear me making advances and nor should you."

ARYA

Kings Landing almost felt a different place with Jon gone and Visenya in the Maidenvault. Arya liked not seeing the princess. She did not like not seeing Jon. The godswood was a lonely place without him. She prayed there still. She prayed for Jon's safety and for her family. She prayed to see her home once more. She even prayed for Aegon.

A moon passed and she saw much less of him than she might have expected. One of the Hightower's came to court her and she knew Aegon did something. The man did not stay very long. Lord Connington was wroth with Aegon. Arya heard them quarrelling.

"Did you ask for Lord Stark's acceptance this time my lord?"

Lord Connington's reply was silence but Arya could almost hear him grinding his teeth. Father will not make me marry unless I want to. She hurried to write to him, to thank him for saving her. She knew Aegon might be helping but Aegon could not do it if her father agreed to the suit. At least that was what Arya thought.

Cersei did not share her satisfaction.

"Do you wish to be an old maid Arya?"

Arya chewed on her lip a moment.

"I might prefer it to being married to somebody I do not like your grace."

Cersei looked at her then and something unpleasant flickered over her face.

"Women have duties. You will not escape that. It will not matter how much they indulge you. They will always take what they want. You best accept that sooner rather than later."

Arya did not know who they were but she thought she had some idea. She did not want to get in trouble by disagreeing so she remained silent. Cersei did not fly into rages the same as Visenya but her anger was no less unpleasant.

"I will need you to go to the kitchens today," Cersei ordered her. "After that you must see after that missing horse. When you are done you may see your dancing master."

Arya nodded and rose quickly to obey. Cersei gave her the same errands as Visenya always did. Ser Jaime gave a little frown but Arya smiled and it disappeared. She truly did not mind. The orders were not something she liked but the people knew her and Jon was right.

I have made more friends.

AEGON

Aegon woke in the night to a woman in his bed. In his sleepy state and the darkened room he did not recognise her immediately. The affection she offered was so uncharacteristic. Visenya touched him boldly, she kissed him and it took him far longer than he might have wished to reject her. A kiss was far more than he ever wanted to give his sister.

"Where is Ser Jaime?"

The affection ended very abruptly. By the time Jaime Lannister entered the chambers, torch in hand, Visenya was shouting at him. Aegon had to catch her wrists to stop her clawing him any more. It was not the first time she had attacked him but this time her fury was worse. Ser Jaime had to drag her away.

"He has to marry me now," she protested.

"Examine her," Aegon shot back angrily.

When morning came he attended a gathering including his father, Cersei and Visenya. Cersei joined Visenya in insisting upon the marriage. Aegon repeated his claim that a septon should examine Visenya. Ser Jaime was called as a witness. He refused to say either way what might have occurred. Aegon stormed out angrily.

She thought to use the same ploy as Rhaenys.

He did not understand how she managed to get to his chambers from the Maidenvault. What he did know was that her time in confinement had done nothing to improve her. The experience bruised him. He wanted to escape, to rebel in some way. Ser Barristan's normally neutral expression showed a flicker of disapproval. Aegon ignored the old knight

They found the brothel easily enough. Those inside knew him by the white knight shadowing him. Ser Barristan appeared incredibly uncomfortable. Aegon counted himself fortunate that nobody wished to harm his person because Ser Barristan reddened and avoided looking at the women inside. He was shown through to a room and there he froze on the spot.

A young woman was bent over a book, reading aloud. Her finger traced the line on the page and Aegon realised she instructed her companion. He recognised the voice instantly even if he had not known the dark hair trying to escape the ribbons woven through it. She lifted her head, glanced in his direction and frowned.

"Are you looking for me?"

Aegon did not know how to answer. He simply stared at Arya. His mind screamed so many questions but he found himself unable to ask a single one. He wanted to ask what she was doing there but if he asked that she might ask why he was there. Aegon wasn't ready to answer that. On top of his horror at seeing her in a brothel he was acutely aware that Arya caused him far more discomfort than the whore they had brought him to see, the one who now ignored the book in front of her to smile at him in a far too knowing way.

He felt certain Arya was the only person in the room who did not know his thoughts. She seemed the only one who did not see. His face burned with embarrassment.

"You are needed back at the Red Keep," he finally managed.

Arya rose swiftly and passed the book to the whore she had been reading to. The woman thanked her and smiled at Aegon again. It was a kind smile but it only made him feel worse.

"I am helping teach Alayaya to read," Arya explained. "Harry always makes me wait." She cocked her head. "Why didn't you use the tunnel?"

Aegon was forced to confess his ignorance. He did bang on the relevant door and demand that Harry Hardyng finish his business and return to the Red Keep. The heir to the Eyrie took more note of him than Arya. Arya chattered away next to him oblivious to the impropriety. He did discover that Cersei sent her looking for Harry.

The queen knew where he would be.

Aegon began to get a rather ill feeling in his stomach. Arya either did not know or did not accept the repercussions of a noble woman being seen in a brothel. Aegon knew that Cersei understood it all too well. Visenya knew it well too. They found their way to the tunnel and ventured through it.

"How do you know of the tunnel?"

Arya smiled. "Alayaya used to use it to visit Aemon. She told me of it."

Aegon thanked the gods for Alayaya. He expected that Ser Barristan might have said his own prayer. The old knight was fond of Arya.

"Did you know Harry got a child on one of the whores?"

Aegon did not know. It made him even more glad to be gone from the place. He shook his head as they reached the end of the tunnel and stepped into the light again. Aegon pulled at his collar and Arya gave a cry and lunged at him.

"You are hurt."

He was rather more mindful of Arya's fingers against his skin that the gouges Visenya left. She touched him gently, her face filled with concern.

"Who hurt you?" she demanded.

Aegon did not want to tell her. He looked into her face. She was flushed with indignation. She still touched him and it felt almost like a caress. It was a marked difference to what he remembered from his sister. Aegon reluctantly removed her hands.

"Visenya came to visit me. She did not take rejection well."

A flicker of confusion crossed her face. It was followed by anger. She pulled away from him.

"I will never understand your father making you do this. How will you be able to marry her?"

Arya looked at him for a moment, almost as though she expected an answer from him. Aegon had none to give. He could not speak the answer he wanted.

I cannot marry my sister. It cannot be my duty. It is you that I want.

ARYA

Aegon was angry over her being at Chataya's. He did not listen to her. Instead he told her not to go back. The gold cloaks were for those errands. Arya did not want to abandon her friend. It was true that Alayaya told her she must always use the tunnel. Alayaya said she must not be seen but if it did not matter for Aemon and Aegon to go there then Arya did not think it should matter for her to go.

I did not do anything wrong.

Visenya's attack on Aegon earned her even longer in the Maidenvault. The king was now forced to see that there was a problem. It still did not prompt him to abandon the betrothal. Aegon spent long hours in court and council meetings. When he was not there he seemed to be closeted in meetings with the nobles.

Arya missed Jon. Syrio only filled part of her days. Cersei had given her less to do that day. She decided to go riding. It took a little time to find somebody to go with her. She would have been happy to go alone but that might cause trouble. Lord Renly passed her and she called to him, he had Ser Loras Tyrell with him as well as Ser Jaime Lannister. She wasn't certain she wanted Ser Jaime or Ser Loras but they did not give her much choice.

I will ride faster than them anyways.

She scowled at the stableboy. There was one who always tried to insist on helping her into the saddle.

"I can do it myself."

She might not have minded but he touched her in a way he shouldn't. He only did it once before and Arya told him then she would hurt him if he tried it again. He tested her bluff and yelped when she kicked him. Ser Jaime and Lord Renly laughed. Arya shook her head.

"I did warn you."

The ride did her good. Lord Renly was a good companion. Ser Loras spoke rather too much of his sister. Arya wasn't stupid. She knew what he was trying to do.

"My cousin just wants to fight outlaws," she told him. "If you want him to think well of your sister it is best if she speaks to him herself."

Ser Loras flushed but Ser Jaime laughed again. He seemed to be enjoying himself. It changed after they returned to the stables. Arya lingered there, wanting to spend time with Dancer. The stableboy did not realise she was not gone. She overheard him speaking of her.

"I hear she visits in brothels. One of the singers the princess likes said she was wanton. You've seen her. That jerkin isn't even laced up."

Arya wanted to lash out at him. She wanted to cry and she wanted to yell. If she had Needle she might have cut him. She stepped out from the stall in time to see the man hit the ground. Aegon stood over him and he was shaking. Ser Jaime was with him. He had his hand on Aegon's shoulder.

"Leave him be your grace. He has learned his lesson."

Aegon turned and saw her. Arya looked down and tried in vain to tighten the laces. She had grown more. It was almost laced. Nobody could see anything. There wasn't anything to see. Aegon barked orders at Ser Jaime and he hastened to obey. Aegon approached her slowly.

"Why did you do that?" she asked.

Aegon frowned. "He had no right to speak of you that way. Nobody does."

Arya studied him. "Do others speak of me in that way?" He shook his head but too slowly. Arya began to understand the warnings. "I did nothing wrong. You did not need to hit him. I can hit him myself."

Aegon laughed. "I would have liked to see that."

Arya closed the gap between them. The stables were empty. Ser Jaime had cleared out the people and left to get aid for the stableboy.

"Show me your hand."

Aegon held it out to her. The knuckles were bruised. She could see the swelling beginning. His breath hitched at her touch. Arya looked into his face. He was gazing at her. He had that same look she saw once before, the one where he wrestled with himself. That was when he kissed her.

"You will get in trouble because of me. You shouldn't do that."

Arya kept hold of his hand. He hasn't been kissing Visenya. She knew that now. He looked repulsed when he spoke of his sister. He did not look repulsed now. She heard Syrio's voice in her head, look with your eyes. She finally understood what he meant. Syrio had been trying to tell her about all of them. He had been trying to tell her about Cersei and Visenya and the ones who watched her train and Aegon. He had tried to tell her about Aegon.

I still need to be certain.

"You kissed me because you felt sorry for me."

Aegon's mouth made an "O" of shock and he shook his head.

"I never felt sorry for you. Never."

Arya raised his injured hand and pressed her lips to it just gently, the way she had seen others do. It was a gesture without risk. It was simple courtesy but Arya had never done it. She had hugged him and kissed him on the cheek but this was different. Aegon's breath caught again.

"I made a promise to Jon."

Arya shook her head. "Jon isn't here."

Aegon pulled his hand free and touched her cheek. This time Arya knew what was next and she was ready. She slid her arms around his neck and when his lips pressed to hers she knew for certain she wanted it. She wanted his hands at her waist, strong and steady in the way he held her. She wanted him breathing into her mouth when her lips parted and even though it felt strange at first she wanted his tongue to touch hers. It made her tremble a little but she just held on more tightly.

She wanted all of it until they parted and she saw Ser Jaime standing only a few feet away, watching them. His usual smile was completely absent. There was something hard in his green eyes which reminded her of the queen.

"Lady Arya," he said. "The king and queen insist upon an audience with you."