Hello my lovely readers, I apologize for not having this done sooner, but I actually just finished writing since I had a snow day from work (whoo!) I meant to have this chapter done a lot sooner but work has been really busy, etc. I won't bore you with details. But I just want to thank every single one of you who continues to read and leave reviews and favorites this story, it really means alot, and really encourages me to continue! You guys rock! Big thanks to my boyfriend, Zac, and best friend, Bree, who always cheer me on!
I DO NOT OWN GAME OF THONES! I ONLY OWN FAOLAN STARK AND THE FEW CHARACTERS I MAKE UP HERE AND THERE! ENJOY! AND PLEASE REVIEW! I LOVE READING REVIEWS!
xoxo Much love guys!~
Chapter 9: The Kingsroad (Part III)
The first light of day, appeared over the Crossroads Inn and Jaime Lannister awoke with a crick in his neck and an ache in his back, he grumbled as he rose from hard and ragged mattress. The Lion of Lannister, stretched this way and that, in order to assist his aches, and finally rose, leaving that awful bed. The blankets were itchy and the mattress rock hard, old, and scratchy, he much preferred the bed he rested in while they were in Winterfell, though he was not fond of that one either.
The Lion left what represented his den for the night, and wandered into the hall, spotting a serving girl who worked at the inn, Jaime summoned her to approach him. The girl quickly scurried over towards him, "Good morning, m'lord—"
"Oh spare me of your pleasantries,"Jaime snapped, "I wish to bathe, fetch me some hot water and bring it to my room."He ordered, the girl timidly nodded and quickly turned on her heels, racing off to obey his command.
Jaime roamed back to his chambers and waited for the girl to hurry back, to his surprise the girl was quick, he supposed she did not want to disobey the Kingslayer. The Lion allowed her into his den, so she could prepared the tub that was perched in the corner of the room; he watched as she poured a bottle of oils into the water, the faint smell of lavender filled the room, he rolled his eyes, I suppose that will do..., He thought. Once she was done, she turned to face him, "Will there be anything else, m'lord?"
"No, that will be all."Jaime replied, the girl nodded and quickly removed herself from the room. Once alone, Jaime stripped himself of his clothes and sank down into the warm waters that smelled of lavender fields, he washed the dirt and grime of yesterday away, he soothed his aches and pains, and he cleansed himself of the events that had brought worry and hurt to his betrothed, Faolan Stark. An image of her standing before him, with hurt glistening in her sapphire blue eyes flashed before Jaime as he stared into the waters, his brow furrowed; Jaime had hated seeing her in such a state, and he hated himself more for there was nothing he could do to prevent what had happened, once his sister had her mind fixed on something, she always got what she desired. The Lion glowered at the thought of his sister, the Lioness and how smug she had been, how she had gotten satisfaction from the misery of Faolan and the Starks. "Damn Cersei, damn Joffery, damn them both."He cursed, before closing his eyes and lowering himself underneath the waters for a moment to wetten his hair. Jaime surfaced, his face and hair dripping with water; with his hands, he wiped the water from his face, he then raked a dampened hand throughout his soaked golden hair which was now a dark honey hue, due to the water.
Jaime emerged from the bath and began to dry himself, once dried he began to cloth himself in the proper attire for a member of King Robert's Kingsguard. As the Lion pulled on the darken cream colored trousers, he heard the door creak open, he rolled his eyes, "I believe I stated that I did not need anything else, and I'll have you know that it is ill-advised to enter the room of a noble without permission."Jaime snapped, lacing up his pants.
"My, you seem rather tense and in a foul mood."
His green eyes rounded in surprise at her voice, Jaime paused and lowered his hands, as he turned around to see his twin standing before him, donned in a gown as red as blood with golden patterns embroidered into the delicate, silken fabric. "Cersei,"He said softly, "what are you doing here, if anyone were to see—"
"Do not fret, dear brother, I was cautious, and besides if anyone were to see, they would not think anything of it; they would merely think that we are sharing a conversation, as siblings do."The Queen replied, confidently, as she made her way towards him. "I had heard that Lord Stark had slayed that beastly creature, is it true?"She questioned, tilting her head up at him.
Jaime's brow furrowed as he looked down at her, his jaw clenched in anger, "It is true."He answered, "Cersei, you did not have to do that, that situation could have been handled in a more civil matter."
"A civil matter?"She spat, narrowing her eyes at her brother, "That beast nearly tore my son's hand off! The beast deserved to die!"
"Oh please, it was a mere bite."Jaime snapped, "If Joffrey can be unarmed by a little girl then he has no need in wielding a sword in the first place!"
"Why are you defending the beast that harmed your son?"Cersei spat, her nostrils flaring with rage.
Jaime's entire body stiffened as he glowered at his sister, "Don't...do not call him that, he is not my son, his father is Robert Baratheon, not I."The Lion growled.
Cersei stared at her twin, stunned, a twinge of hurt glistened within her emerald orbs, she stepped forward, her fingertips tenderly brushing Jaime's bare chest, "Jaime..."She whispered,
The Lion jerked the Lioness' hand away, for his skin seemed to burn at her touch, "Don't."He said sternly, shaking his head.
"Why not?"She questioned, her brow puckered as a wounded look washed across her face.
Jaime glanced down at his sister, a glimmer of remorse seemed to glow within his eyes; he knew his actions, his words, were causing Cersei's heart to ache, but he no longer desired her touch like he once had, he no longer lust for her, he no longer loved her in the way he once had, for his feelings, his heart, now belonged to another. He sighed, "Cersei, have you ever felt like what we did, the things we have done...were wrong?"He inquired.
"No!"Cersei blurted out, "Not once have I ever doubted it, you and I came into this world together, we belong together."She said, "You...you never doubted before, what has changed?"She begged, her eyes searching his for answers as she gently cupped his face in her hands.
"Stop it!"Jaime snapped, forcing his sister's hands away, each time she touched him it felt as if wildfire was licking up his flesh.
A ragged breath hitched within Cersei's throat as she stared up at her brother dumbfounded, "Something has changed you..."She muttered, suddenly her eyes widened in realization, "...that girl, the Stark girl, that...that SHE-WOLF...she's gotten her claws into you!"She bellowed.
"Do not call her that!"Jaime yelled, he lowered his head in defeat and sighed, "Cersei, listen to me, I am betrothed, I am to be married, and I want to do right by Lady Faolan, she deserves that."He admitted, "The things we've done, the things we've did...can not continue, you are my sister...my dear sister, what we have done is wrong, and I realize that now. It cannot continue, Cersei."
She glared up at him, tears stinging the backs of her eyes, as her nostrils flared, "The Targaryens did it, how wrong can it be? How can it be right for them, is it only wrong because we do not share their house name?"The Queen hissed.
Jaime huffed an irritated sigh, "Cersei, we are not Targaryens! And have you ever once thought, perhaps, the Targaryens were mad because of their incestuous relationships?! No matter what house name you have...it is wrong!"He barked.
The Queen glowered at her twin, "You...you've fallen for her, haven't you?"She spat, Jaime remained silent and looked away from her, "Answer me, Jaime!"
"Yes...I have."He confessed, "I care about her, Cersei, and I want to do right by her, I want to be faithful to her."Jaime said softly. The Lion could see the anger and hurt burning within the Lioness' narrowed eyes, he could see the unshed tears glistening within her orbs that were mirrors of his own. He released a sorrowful sigh, "I am sorry, sister, but...I cannot hide my feelings, nor will I lie to myself about them, that would only cause harm to both of us...I was going to wait until we returned to King's Landing t-to confess to you, but perhaps it is best said now—"
"No!"The Queen shrieked, her nostrils flaring out in rage, as she glared up at her twin. "You are mine, and I am yours! W-We came into this world together, we have always been together, and...and no one, no man, no woman, or cursed BEAST will take you away from me!"She cried, before fleeing from the room.
"Cersei, Cersei!"Jaime called after her, as he followed quickly behind her, but the door to his chambers slammed shut in his face and he thought it unwise to rush out after his sister, for it would only cause a scene. The Lion squeezed his eyes shut, shaking his head as he pounded his fist in anger on the door before him, "Damn her."Jaime spat under his breath. He turned away and strolled across the room, back to where he had his garments laid out and continued dressing; Jaime gnawed the inside of his cheek, irritation still surging within him, his sister had acted as if she were a mere child once again, ranting and raving for not getting her way. She is still a spoiled little brat, even after all these years, Jaime thought, as memories of their childhood came flooding back to him; he shook his head, at the remembrance of Cersei's childish temper tantrums which she obviously never out grew. Jaime shook the memories away and laced up his boots; he abandoned his chambers and made his way down the hall, down the wooden stairs and entered the dining hall which was quickly filling up with a mixture of Kingsguard, Stark men, and more from the royal company, all claiming tables for their own, demanding food and ale. The workers of the inn were scurrying about through the throngs of people, rushing to and from the kitchens with plates piled with black bread and meat, bowls filled with warm oat porridge, and cups oozing with foamy ale. The Lion forced his way through the crowd of people and towards the doors, heading outside to take in the fresh morning air, hoping that it would assist in settling him down, clearing his head; as he trudged passed the company (some still sleeping in their tents, while others were taking theirs down), he spotted Eddard Stark speaking to a loyal Stark follower. Jaime arched a brow as he moved closer, seeing a wooden wagon, parked behind the Stark servant, and laying within was the dead direwolf, the body partially shielded with a blanket. What the hell is he doing? He wondered, stepping nearer.
"Take her back to Winterfell and have her buried in the catacombs."Lord Stark ordered, a bit of sadness in his voice.
"Yes, my lord."The man replied, with an obedient nod. Jaime watched as the man climbed upon the saddle of the golden stallion which was hooked up to the wooden wagon carrying the deceased direwolf; with a flick of the reins, the horse began moving and the creaking wagon followed behind.
The Lion approached the Wolf, who continued to watch the wagon until it disappeared, "Good morning, Lord Stark."Jaime said, forcing a grin as he made himself known,
Ned Stark turned to face him, his gray eyes which were as cold as the dead of winter, narrowed as they met Jaime's emerald ones, "Ser Jaime."He said curtly, with a nod, his lips in a tight purse line.
"If I may be so bold as to ask, what was it that you were doing, Lord Stark?"Jaime questioned, arching a brow as his eyes moved to the outstretched land that lay before them, the Stark follower and the wagon were now tiny figures, bobbing up and down the bumpy road.
The Wolf gave the Lion a hard, long look before finally answering, "If you must know, Ser Jaime, I have sent the...body of my daughter's direwolf, back to Winterfell to be buried properly, back in the North, where she belongs."Ned answered.
Jaime could hear the remorse behind Ned's words, he could see a glimmer of guilt mixed with sorrow, burning within the old Wolf's eyes. "How very noble of you."He said, his lips curling into a slight grin. Eddard hardened his eyes at him, "Forgive me, I did not mean it as an insult, Lord Stark."Jaime added, "Well...I suppose I should gather my belongings since we will be heading out soon...good day, Lord Stark."He stammered awkwardly, Jaime turned and began walking away,
"Ser Jaime..."Ned called,
The Lion paused and faced the Wolf, raising a brow as a confusion expression displayed on his face, "Yes, Lord Stark?"He inquired.
The Wolf lowered his gaze, he appeared preplexed, as if he did not want to converse with the Lion, and yet the Lion knew something that he desired to know. He glanced back up at Jaime with his cold gray eyes, "Have you...spoken to Faolan at all, since you departed...last night?"Eddard asked, in a cumbersome tone.
"No."Jaime fibbed, the lie spilled quickly from his lips, as he remembered the last encounter that he and Lady Faolan had shared the night prior—her smooth, pale skin, her slender, womanly body, pressed against him, their lips locked together in a passionate kiss—he yearned to see her again, to hold her in his arms once again; when suddenly he remembered, how sorrowful she had appeared, a spark of guilt and worry cloaked around him. "Is she all right?"He questioned, concerned.
"I...do not know,"Ned admitted, grimly, noting Jaime's concern, "after you had took your leave for the night, she and I had a very heated argument, and I regret to say that I said some very...harsh things to her, that I truly did not mean, but my anger, it got the best of me."He confessed, "I-I am afraid she hates me."
Jaime was stunned that Ned had shared all of this with him, knowing that the Wolf held much dislike for him, So that is why she was so upset...,He thought, an image of Faolan's beautiful, yet sorrow shadowed face, replayed within his mind, which seemed to cause his heart to ache. "I am sure, Lady Faolan, does not hate you, Lord Stark, you both seem so very close to one another, you share a bond that...appears unbreakable."Jaime replied, a hint of sadness in his tone, as he remembered his childhood, and how his father, even to this day, was the same serious, ever-calculating and controling man. He never had much time for Jaime or Cersei while they were growing up, and when Tyrion came along, he wanted nothing much to do with the babe. Deep down, a young Jaime, craved to have a family bond as close as the Starks, the Lion shook the feeling away, his brow furrowed as he now wondered how Faolan was ailing.
"You...do care about her, don't you?"Ned's voice stated, taken aback.
Jaime met Ned's gaze, a sigh escaped his lips as the Wolf continued to look the Lion up and down with his judgmental eyes, "If I may be honest, Lord Stark, I was not too thrilled about this arranged marriage, and neither was your daughter, but the time that I spent with her in Winterfell has...changed me. Lady Faolan, is a very intriguing woman, and yes I have come to care about her."He admitted, feeling as if he were on trial.
Eddard narrowed his eyes at Jaime, his lips forming a purse line, "I find that hard to believe, when you caused her to transform during your stay in Winterfell."The Wolf growled.
The Lion glared at the old Wolf, his jaw clenched in annoyance at the mention of one his asinine blunders. "I have made my fair share of mistakes, as any man has, Lord Stark, but I assure you that my feelings towards your daughter are genuine. I do care for her."The Lion retorted.
"I warn you now, Kingslayer,"Ned replied grimly as he closed the distance between them, "Faolan cares for you, she truly does, do not toy with her heart and do not play with her emotions."He forewarned, glowering at Jaime, who returned the expression.
"I do not intend to, Lord Stark, perhaps one day you will beleive me."Jaime spat, before turning away and making his leave, leaving Ned Stark behind him.
Faolan Stark awoke to beams of morning sunlight streaming into the room from the cracks of the wooden shutters of the small window; she carefully sat up in her bed, being sure not to wake Sansa or Arya who were still sound asleep, snuggled near to her on each side. A faint smile formed on her lips as she glanced down at her sleeping sisters, cautiously Faolan crawled out of bed and quietly gathered some clean garments from her belongings. Silently, she crossed the room and carefully opened the door, slipping out into the hall; Faolan wandered down the hallway and down the wooden stairs leading to the dining hall which was crowded with Kingsguard, followers of her father, and others from the company. The aroma of freshly baked black bread and oat porridge seemed to circle around her in a heavenly cloud, which caused her stomach to groan; Faolan squeezed her way through the gathering of hungry men, who were chatting loudly as they consumed their ale and gobbled up their breakfast. Once outside, she inhaled deeply, taking in the crisp morning air and began making her way towards the river—Faolan passed some of the royal company who were taking down their tents and headed into the woods, she figured she would just wash off in the river, instead of summoning for one of the inn-workers who would bring in a tub and hot water in the room, for all the commotion would wake Arya and Sansa; Faolan wanted her sisters to get as much rest as they could, They deserve it...after all that has happened, She thought, sadly.
The She-Wolf finally reached the river, she trudged through the green grass and towards the river bank, and began to strip from her clothes, letting them fall to the ground at her feet; Faolan freed her hair from the messy braid it had been tied in since the day before, her dark locks spilled down her back like a darkened veil. She dipped her toes into the water and smiled at the sudden chilled sensation, before walking out into the deeper waters, letting the cool waters swallow her up. The warm rays of sunlight that shone throughout the leaves of the surrounding trees, mixed with the cool water, felt nice on her skin, birds sang their morning songs, a gentle breeze rustled through the trees; Faolan felt at peace, she had often bathed in nature, for she loved the still and quiet of the mornings, the fresh air, she felt free, all the troubles of yesterday seemed to melt away, dissolving into nothingness in the water. She cupped her hands together and sank them into the waters and then lowered her face into her hands, allowing the chilled water to trickle down her face; she sighed peacefully, closing her eyes as she sank deeper in the river, letting her body relax as she began to float. Faolan breathed deeply, she could smell the clean waters, the crisp green grass and earthly dirt; she caught the scent of the singing birds in the trees and in the distance she could sense a stag.
Faolan finally emerged from the river, her procelain skin glistening wet in the sunlight, as she made her way back to the river bank, she began squeezing the water from her dark hair. Once on land, she began to dry off on the towel that she had brought with her, and then started pulling the clean garments she had picked out for the day—Faolan pulled on her undergarments, and then put on the worn pair of tan trousers, she then slipped into cream colored top, tying the laces and pulling down the sleeves as she did so, lastly Faolan secured the copper hued leather jerkin over top of her shirt—she allowed her hair to dry a bit before she began styling her locks into a braid once more, allowing a few strands to hang down to frame her face. Faolan perched herself on a nearby stone and began to lace up her boots, once she was fully clothed once more, she began to gather up her clothes from the previous day, as she bent down picking up the garments, the familiar scent of blood caught her attention. In the soft patches of grass before her, she noticed dried blood mixed into the dirt and on the blades of grass; the unforgettable scent of Joffrey Baratheon was mingled in with the smell of blood. A scowl surrounded her face at the remembrance of the events that played out the day before—the Queen's unforgivable command, the prick prince's lies, the death of innocent Lady—Faolan could feel rage boiling within her, her hands formed into fists and her breathing became labored as the anger continued to surge within the pit of her stomach, causing her entire frame to shake; her eyes shifted to that golden-amber hue, she squeezed her eyes shut and began to take some deep breaths, soothing the burning rage that was now covering her like a cloak. Faolan slowly opened her eyes, which had once again returned to there natural sapphire blue shade, when suddenly she caught a whiff of another familair smell, "Nymeria." She said under her breath. Faolan remembered checking a trace of the direwolf's scent the day prior when she and Jaime Lannister had been here. She knew that Arya's direwolf had been the culprit behind Prince Joffrey's injury, but she had not seen Nymeria since late yesterday when Arya and the butcher's boy had first ran off, with her running behind them. Where has she gone? She wondered, slowly raising from the ground, her eyes searched the woods around her as she attempted to detect the direwolf's scent, but failed, only picking up the aroma of the area before her.
The She-Wolf sighed feeling defeated, and gathering the rest of her belongings, she began to head back towards the inn. As Faolan strolled through the woods, listening to the chirping birds, the wind blowing throughout the leaves, in the distance she could hear a fox trotting back to it's den; she abruptly stopped in her steps, as she noticed a calendula plant growing in the midst of the forest. Faolan moved nearer to the golden plant, taking in it's light flowery aroma, she knew that the plant was used for medicinal reasons; in fact she often made a healing salve and the main ingredient was this very plant. Her mind went back to Joffrey Baratheon, her brow furrowed at the thought but quickly softened; she knew that the prick prince had to be in pain, she, of all people knew how discomforting a direwolf's bite could be. Faolan clenched her jaw, she could still hear the prince spewing out his lies, the She-Wolf wanted him to suffer for the torment, he and his Queen mother had put her family through. Another sigh escaped her lips, as she remembered having a jar of the healing salve she had made before they had left Winterfell. Faolan had packed it away, just in case there would be need for it, I'll be sure to give it to the Queen, for the prince, once I get back, She thought, as she began to make her way throughout the woods once again, It is the right thing to do...,
Upon returning to the Crossroads Inn, Faolan could see the royal company readying their horses and the royal carriage for the Queen, the princess, and her sisters; she took their actions as a sign that they would be leaving shortly. She re-entered the inn, and once again forced her way through the crowded dining area, heading back to her room; Faolan entered her chambers once more, and quietly closed the door behind her, turning around, she was surprised to find Arya and Sansa still curled up in bed, asleep. A faint smile formed on her lips as she watched them sleeping peacefully; Faolan knew that the journey ahead of them today would be long and tiring, therefore she decided to let her sisters remain resting, she would wake them after she had consumed some food. Carefully, she crossed the room, and began to search through one of her bags, finally finding the small jar of healing ointment. The She-Wolf repacked her belongings and silently wandered out of the room and back into the hall, she once again made her way back to the dining area, the crowds of men began to disperse. The smell of black bread and porridge still filled the air, but another aroma was now mixed into the concoction of scents, the smell of summertime oils; Faolan could not help but smile, as her eyes quickly found Jaime Lannister sitting at a wooden table in the center of the room, two bowls of porridge, a plate filled with warm black bread, and two glasses, lay before him. The Lion grinned as his eyes met her's, the She-Wolf crossed the room, "Good morning, Ser Jaime."She replied, with a smile, as she reached the table.
The Lion of Lannister rose from his seat and nodded his head towards her, "Good morning, little wolf."He said, his lips curling into a smirk. Faolan blushed, taking notice of the little nickname that Jaime had just called her, "I saved you some breakfast,"Jaime stated, as they both took a seat.
Faolan grinned cheekily, "My, how very kind of you."She teased.
"I do hope you are fond of black bread and porridge."Jaime said,
"I am, and even if I was not, I would not turn this away, I am starving."Faolan said, as she took a piece of the black bread and began to eat. She could feel his eyes watching her, her face grew hot as she glanced up to see Jaime smiling at her, his emerald eyes only focused on her, as if she were the only person in the room, the only person in the world.
"Forgive me for staring, my lady."Jaime replied, a twinge of shame in his tone, "How are your sisters, Lady Faolan?"He asked, quickly changing the subject.
"Before we fell asleep last night, they were still very upset, and I am sure that they will feel that way for awhile, but with time they heal."She answered, a hint of melancholy in her voice.
The Lion watched her as she calmly picked up the wooden spoon and slowly began to eat her porridge, he could see the worry in her eyes, the hurt that still burned within them, "And you, Lady Faolan, how are you?"Jaime questioned, concerned, sliding his right hand across the table, his finger tips gently brushing against her hand.
Faolan glanced up at him from underneath her long dark lashes, her cheeks growing warmer at his tender touch; she felt her stomach flutter within her, as she remembered his lips pressed against hers, passionately, his wondering hands which had touched and held her body in ways she had never experienced before, but had left a burning desire to smolder within her. The feeling was suddenly overcome by a stab of hurt, as an image of Lady's unmoving body filled her mind; Faolan lowered her eyes, "I...I am fine, Ser Jaime."She replied, softly.
"Are you sure about that, my lady?"He inquired, again, his brow puckered in worry as he gazed upon her.
"Yes, I am fine, really."Faolan stated, before placing another spoon full of porridge into her mouth, signaling that she wanted that conversation to be over.
"Very well, Lady Faolan."Jaime said, with a nod, as he watched her consume her meal. "I spoke to your father this morning,"The Lion said, before drinking from his glass filled with sweet wine.
Faolan glanced up at him, swallowing hard as she placed her spoon down, "Oh?"She replied, her mind imagining a heated conversation between her father, the Wolf, and Ser Jaime, the Lion.
"Yes, and you should know that he has sent the...body, of your sister's direwolf back to Winterfell, to be buried there."He informed, his voice was soft and careful as he spoke.
She gazed up at him taken aback, "H-he...did that?"Faolan said, her voice sounding rattled.
Jaime nodded, "Yes, he did, he said something about the direwolf belonging in the North or something righteous like that."He replied, stealing a piece of the black bread for himself.
"My father is right...she does belong there."Faolan stated softly, lowering her eyes to the bowl of thick oat porridge before her, huge mounds had formed within the filling meal, due to the constant stirring she was causing with her spoon. Her heart ached once again, at the thought of Lady, she could still see her father plunging that dagger into the direwolf's body, still hear Lady's screams that sounded so human in her ears; Faolan gripped the handle of the spoon tighter and squeezed her eyes closed, forcing the thoughts away.
Jaime could see that Faolan was upset, he watched her as she gripped the spoon in her hands with a trembling hand, her eyes were downcast, wrapped up in her thoughts. "Lady Faolan, your father told me of your argument...what on earth did he say to you that has caused you such distress?"The Lion inquired, concern dripping from his lips.
The She-Wolf glanced up at the Lion, stunned to hear that her father had shared such a thing with the knight that he despised, "I-I do not wish to say..."She murmured, as Ned's hurtful words rung in her ears, Because of what you are, Faolan, he had yelled, He will not love you, Ned had shouted.
"I will not force you to tell me, but may I ask you something?"Jaime asked,
"You may."Faolan nodded, locking eyes with Jaime,
"Your father thinks you hate him for whatever it was that he said to you, do you hate him, do you hate your father?"The Lion of Lannister asked,
A gasp hitched within the She-Wolf's throat, "Of course I don't hate him, he is my father,"She said, "but...what he said was very hurtful."Her voice shifted to a whisper.
Jaime's brow furrowed as he saw the hurtful gleam in her dark sapphire eyes, "I will not ask anymore, Lady Faolan."He said, not wanting to bring her anymore pain. His eyes shifted to the small jar on the top that Faolan had brought with her, the Lion arched a brow as he picked up the jar, "And what is this?"He asked.
A faint smile formed on Faolan's lips at Jaime's attempt to change the subject, "It is a healing salve I made before we left Winterfell, I decided to give it to the Queen for Prince Joffrey's wounds." She informed.
Jaime rolled his eyes, "Wounds."He scoffed, "It was only a bite, people are acting as if the boy lost a limb."He snapped, sitting the jar back onto the table.
"It may just be a bite, but a direwolf's bite is very painful,"Faolan replied, "besides, I thought if I offered this to your sister, there could be some peace between us for the remainder of the journey."
"Offer it to my sister all you wish, but I am afraid she will not let peace find rest here."Jaime said,
"Why do you say that?"Faolan questioned, raising a brow at him.
She watched as Jaime leaned closer to her, with his index finger he summoned her to follow suit, Faolan obeyed, "Well, my dear sister, came into my chambers this morning and I confessed to her."He said in a soft tone, a smile on his lips.
"Confessed?"Faolan said, her brow furrowed in confusion,
"Yes, I confessed to her about my true feelings for you and how I no longer wished to continued our relationship."Jaime replied.
Faolan eyes widened, "What!"She bellowed, "Are you mad? I thought you were going to wait until we reached King's Landing!"She hissed, frantically running a hand throughout her hair, a ball of frustration and anxiety forming in her chest.
"I was, I thought you would be happy about this,"Jaime snapped, "after all weren't you the one who said 'that if you truly love someone, no matter who they are, if you love them, then you shouldn't be afraid to tell anyone'?"
She sighed, having her own words used against her, "Yes, I did say that, but this is your sister, we are talking about!"Faolan retorted, "I am surprised my head is not already on a spike."
"That will not happen, we have nothing to worry about, not with the fat King around, it would cause too much suspicion, and believe me, Cersei does not want that if she wishes to live."Jaime said, "Trust me, little wolf."
Faolan chewed her bottom lip nervously as a warm blush caused her cheeks to glow, "I do, Ser Jaime."She said, her lips tugging into a smile as she look up at him from underneath her long lashes.
The Lion smiled tenderly, gently taking the She-Wolf's hand into his, "I am pleased to hear so."He cooed softly, before planting a gentle kiss atop her hand. Faolan's heart fluttered within her, she could feel her blush deepening as she smiled at him, suddenly something caught her eye behind him; her eyes moved from Jaime and focused on the men who had just entered the inn. The earthy scent of her father and his men mixed into the aromas that filled the room, she spotted Jory and a few more of her father's men but then her eyes wandered over to Ned, his face was downcast but even from this distance she could see the hurt written on his face, she could feel his breaking heart and worry; Faolan's brow furrowed and her heart ached at the sight of seeing her father in such torment, even if she was still cross with him. Jaime noticed the solemn look which was now written on Faolan's face, he turned slightly to see Eddard Stark and his men and then turned back to face Faolan, "Perhaps, you should speak with him."Jaime suggested.
Faolan lowered her gaze, a mixture of hurt and sorrow swelling up within her as she felt the strong waves of her father's emotions, engulfing her like fiery flames, "You are right, Ser Jaime,"She muttered, before raising from her seat, "please, excuse me."She said, Jaime nodded to her before she began to make her way towards her father.
The closer Faolan approached her father, the more intense the emotions became, and once she reached Ned, she felt as if she were being consumed by the flames, burning away into ash. She squeezed her eyes shut and sucked in a deep breath, settling her emotions and nerves, fighting against her wolf-self. "F-Father,"Faolan said softly, she felt that her voice had come out as a mere whisper and yet Ned still managed to hear her over the noisy diners in the inn, he turned towards her almost taken aback that she had spoke to him,
"Faolan..."Ned muttered, his voice came out wounded,
Her brow puckered at sorrowful Ned's voice had sounded, she could practically taste his heart break, she lowered her gaze, ashamed for how she had acted the night before, hurt from the words that they had exchanged, and pained for leaving without fixing the riff between them. "F-Father, I-I apologize for how I acted last night and for the things I—"
"Faolan, stop."Ned interrupted, holding a hand up which he slowly lowered back to his side. His sad gray eyes held her gaze and she could see his sorrowful orbs glistening with unshed tears, "You have nothing to apologize for, sweet girl,"He said, his voice on the verge of breaking, "I am the one who needs to apologize to you. Faolan, you must know that I-I never meant to say such hurtful things to you, I did not mean them, yesterday was a trying day for the both of us and we both said things we did not mean."
"I know,"She whimpered, tears stinging the backs of her eyes,
"I just hope...you have not come to hate me."Eddard said, grimly,
Faolan shook her head, the tears were now streaming down her cheeks, "I could never hate you, father."She cried, wrapping her arms around his neck.
Ned squeezed his eyes shut, his unfallen tears burning his eyes as he embraced his daughter tightly, "I love you, Faolan, my sweet girl,"He whispered, remembering back to when she was just a child who always clung to him, who always watched him with learning eyes, who was now a woman who could defeat herself, who was now a woman who was going to be married, who was now a woman and no longer his little direwolf pup, "I will always love you."
"I will always love you too, Papa."Faolan said softly, "Always."
The father and daughter released one another from their embrace, the split between them, now mended once again. "I suppose I should go round up the girls."Faolan offered,
"Aye, we will heading out soon and we do not want to keep anyone waiting."Ned replied, "Gather the girls and I will ready your horse for you."
Faolan nodded, "Thank you, father."She said, before leaving his side and returning to the table where Jaime Lannister was still waiting for her. She watched the Lion rise from his seat as she approached nearer, his emerald eyes seemed to sparkle like green stars shooting across the night sky as he gazed upon her; she could feel her cheeks growing warm and she knew that she was blushing.
"So, it appears that father and daughter have reconciled."Jaime stated.
"Yes, we have."Faolan informed, with a grin.
A smile tugged at the corner of Jaime's lips, "Good, I am glad to see the light return in your eyes, my lady, I did not approve of the sorrow that was there."The Lion said, gently cupping Faolan's face in his hands, and tenderly brushing his thumb against her cheek.
The She-Wolf closed her eyes smiling, nestling closer to feel his touch deeper; she could feel her heart fluttering within her, she could sense Jaime's desire for her, his need for her, and she could feel herself drowning in her desire for him. Faolan felt as if she were smoldering in the fires of passion, she longed to press her lips to his once more, to feel his hands against her soft flesh, to have his lips wondering all over her body—she was drowning—Faolan's eyes fluttered open and Jaime could see her eyes were beginning to shift in colors, her dark sapphire blue eyes had golden-amber streaks slowly spreading from the irises, as if someone had spilled golden ink on royal blue silks.
He could see a spark of fear erupt within her eyes as she pulled back from him, she wrapped her arms about herself, breathing raggedly fighting against the wolf part of her. "I-I am sorry, Lady Faolan."Jaime stammered, ashamed, "I should be more aware of your...instincts."
"I..It is all right, Ser Jaime, I am fine."Faolan reassured, her eyes returning back to their dark sapphire hue. "It is I who should be more aware, not you."She said softly, lowering her gaze to the wooden floor below.
Jaime furrowed his brow, gently placing a finger under her chin and lifting it so she could face him, "Please, do not blame yourself when it was I who was at fault."He begged, his green eyes glistening with concern, "I will...try to behave myself from now on, little wolf."He said, "But it is so hard to control myself when I am around you."He smirked, winking at her.
Faolan blushed smiling, "I find it harder to control myself, when I am around you."She shyly admitted, "I-I should go check on my sisters, father said we will be leaving soon and I have let them sleep in far too long."
"I better go ready myself, as well."Jaime replied, "I will see you later then?"He asked, arching a brow at her.
"Yes."Faolan nodded.
"Good."Jaime grinned, "Oh, and you best not forget this."He said, placing the small jar of the healing onitment into her hands.
"Thank you, Ser Jaime."She replied, before leaving the table and ascending the wooden stairs to the upper level of inn.
As Faolan strolled down the halls of the upper level of the inn, heading towards her assigned room, she suddenly caught a whiff of jasmine oils and summertime roses, a spark of irritation began to burn within her as she saw the Queen Regent wondering out of her assigned chambers with Myrcella and Tommen dashing down the halls before her. "Good morning, Lady Faolan."The prince and princess greeted with wide smiles.
The She-Wolf couldn't help but smile back, the young prince and princess were such sweet children, unlike their awful older brother and their wrenched mother. "Good morning, my prince. Good morning, my princess."She replied, "How did you rest? I hope it was well."She said, politely.
"We did indeed."The children said in unison.
"Splendid!"Faolan grinned, she glanced up to see the Queen narrowing her eyes at her while wearing a fake smile as she approached her.
"Children, why don't you go downstairs and try to find something suitable for breakfast, we will be leaving soon."Cersei said.
"Yes, mother."The prince and princess said, before dashing down the halls once more and down the stairs, leaving the She-Wolf and the Lioness alone in the corridors.
"Good morning, my Queen."Faolan replied, with a proper bow.
"Spread me of your pleasantries, beast."The Queen spat, "My husband may quickly forgive you, your family and that wretched creature for harming my son, but I am not so forgiving."She hissed.
Faolan clenched her jaw, gripping the small jar of ointment tighter in her hands, causing her knuckles to turn white, as the flames of irritation began to boil within her; she knew that Cersei was anger at her for another reason, for gaining Jaime's favor. The She-Wolf could taste the Queen's hatred for her, it left a bitter savor on her tongue as she chewed her bottom lip, not wanting to lash out. "I...I am truely sorry about what happened, my Queen."Faolan stated, "And so, I wanted to give you this."She said, offering the small jar of healing cream to the Queen.
Cersei arched a brow at her, her green eyes burning with distaste and confusion. "And what is this?"The Lioness inquired, with a curled lip as she took the jar into her slender hands, inspecting it.
"It is a healing cream."Faolan informed, "I made some before we left Winterfell, and I want to give it to you, for Prince Joffrey's injuries. I know from experience that this works wonders, when I was younger I used to get all kinds of cuts and bruises, and this has always helped."She replied.
"I am sure you did."Cersei smirked, "My, this is very kind of you, Lady Faolan, I suppose beasts do have hearts."She said, her smirk widening which caused Faolan to narrow her eyes at the Queen. "I will give it to, Joff, he is in such terrible pain."
"I am sure he is, and I am truly sorry for what happened."Faolan said, through gritted teeth.
Cersei's smirk widened, "Thank you for your sympathies for my son, Lady Faolan, you have such an honorable heart for such a foul creature, an inherited trait from your father no doubt. Well, good day."The Lioness grinned impishly, baring her fangs, before strolling past the She-Wolf.
Faolan clenched her fists and released a frustrated sigh as the Queen's intense hatred slowly began to fade away, her emotions and nerves, though frayed began to return to normal. She closed her eyes and exhaled, She is just jealous...and hurt...do not let her get to you, Faolan told herself.
The She-Wolf pulled herself from her thoughts and continued treading down the hallway until she reached the assigned chambers for her and her sisters; inside, Faolan could hear Sansa and Arya scurrying about, chattering and grumbling as they quickly gathered their belongings. Faolan forced the door open and wandered within, seeing that her sisters were all dressed for the long journey ahead of them. She smiled faintly, sensing their sorrow and tiredness, "Good morning, girls."Faolan said softly, her mouth suddenly went dry and her throat felt as if it were seizing up within her, "H-How did you sleep?"
Arya's eyes cut over to her, Faolan's brow puckered as she saw the gloom within her sister's eyes, "Horrible."Arya frowned, "I...I had bad dreams about Mycah..."She replied sadly, "I don't want to ride with Sansa and the evil Queen! I want to ride with you today, please Faolan!"
"Arya..."Faolan stammered,
"Oh she can't!"Sansa shouted, her eyes red from crying once again, "And you mustn't say such things about the Queen, Arya!"
"Why can't I? She is evil! She and that twat Joffrey are the very reason that Mycah is dead, that Lady was killed. Don't you care about Lady?"
"Of course I do!"Sansa sobbed, "B-But..."
"Alright, enough!"Faolan snapped, closing her eyes she released a sigh, "Please...stop this fighting and stop the blaming...what happened, has happened, and we cannot change that."She said, her voice growing soft, "Arya, come here,"She replied, her younger sister shuffled over to her, rubbing the sleep from her eyes, "I will speak with Father, and see what he says about you riding with me for a while, just until you settle down..."
"I won't settle down! The Queen and Joffrey murdered Mycah!"Arya hissed,
Faolan's brow furrowed and her lips formed a frown, "Sansa, why don't you go ahead and go downstairs, I wish to speak with Arya alone."She replied softly.
"A-Alright."Sansa stammered, she gathered a few of her belongings and then exited the room.
"Arya,"Faolan began softly, "I know you are hurting, and I know there is something you are hiding...where has Nymeria gone?"She asked, searching her little sister's dark sad eyes which held unfallen tears.
Arya snuffled and the unshed tears began to fall, "I-I made her run away."She cried, "A-After she bit Joffrey and we ran away, s-she wouldn't leave my side but...but I knew that if we returned here, t-they'd kill her! S-so...I threw a rock at her to make her leave...I didn't know they would kill Lady instead, honest I didn't!"Arya sobbed.
Faolan's heart ached, "Oh Arya,"She said, embracing her sister close to her, "none of this is your fault, sweet girl."She said, tenderly stroking Arya's hair, "Listen to me carefully, I know it hurts, and what happened...wasn't right, but, you must always hold on to the precious memories of your friend Mycah, and you must try and forgive the Queen and Prince Joffrey...holding such bitterness in your heart, it is as if some is drinking posion...it will slowly eat away at you until there is nothing but hate."Faolan replied, carefully wiping Arya's tears from her wet, red cheeks. "And you are too young to be already consumed by such an illness, dear sister. Promise me, that you will learn to forgive."
"I-I promise, Faolan...but...it may take a long time."Arya said,
Faolan smiled, "I am not expecting for it to happen in a day, Arya, it will take time. Now, you can ride with me until we stop for a break, then you must continue the journey in the carriage with Sansa, Princess Myrcella, and the Queen."
Arya grinned up at her and wrapped her arms about her waist, "Thank you, Faolan!"She exclaimed.
"You are welcome, little sister."Faolan smiled, kissing Arya on her forehead.
After Arya had gathered the rest of her belongings and Faolan had gathered hers, the wolf sisters left their room and exited the inn, walking outside into the warm rays of sunlight, the morning air was crisp and fresh, and held an energetic buzz, as all the members of the great royal caravan rushed about to ready themselves for the long day of travelling. All the colored tents that were erected across the grounds of the Inn at the Crossroads, were now taken down and packed away. As Faolan and Arya made their way towards the stables, she glanced over to see Sansa, Myrcella, and Tommen all stepping into the royal carriage, with Cersei tailing behind them; before the Queen stepped inside she turned her head towards Faolan and narrowed her emerald green eyes at her, her pink lips were tight in a purse line, even from this distance Faolan could taste the hatred. The She-Wolf held her head high as she held the Lioness' gaze, she watched as Cersei's nostrils flared in anger for Faolan was not intimidated; the Queen finally turned her head and vanished inside the carriage, passing through the lush golden and red curtains, and a slam of the door.
The Stark girls reached the stables, they wandered inside to see that most of the stables were empty, for the horses were outside with their owners, saddled and ready for the day's journey. Faolan and Arya found Luna still contained within the gates, grazing on a barrel of hay; the girls wandered inside, carefully, as not to startle the black mare, Faolan knelt down and tenderly placed a hand on the mare's snout. Luna let out a snuff and nuzzled into Faolan hand, "Good morning, girl."She greeted softly, the black mare closed her large dark eyes as Faolan continued to stroke her pelt. The She-Wolf then rose, and assisted her younger sister in readying Luna for the journey, they secured the saddle first, and then began to tie on the few bags of their belongings, one by one. Once they were done, they lead Luna from the stables and outside with the rest of the company. Faolan assisted Arya in climbing atop of the black mare's back; the sudden smell of the rich, earthy scent of her father grew strong about her, she looked behind to see Ned approaching, a puzzled look on his face.
"Faolan,"He said, in a soft voice, closing the distance between them, "why is Arya not in the royal carriage along with Sansa?"Ned questioned. Arya glanced down at her sister and father, at the mention of her name, and then turned her head, her sad dark eyes focusing on something in the distance.
Faolan could still feel Arya's sadness, her anger, for the emotions clung to her sister's small body like a heavy cloak. "I told her she could ride with me, just until we stopped for a break, then she must ride in the carriage for the rest of the journey. Father, Arya, is very upset about...Mycah, about all that happened yesterday."She spoke each word tenderly and cautiously, "I do not think it wise to have Arya's fiery spirit locked in a small box with the ones who caused this to happen."
"Hmm. I suppose you are right about that, there are enough rifts between us and the Queen, as is."Ned replied, grimly.
Faolan knew that her father was not blind, she knew that he, as well as any member of the large company, had seen the hate filled glances that Cersei Lannister shot towards the She-Wolf; though, they were oblivious as to why she showed such loathing, for the Queen Regent was jealous of Winterfell's She-Wolf, for Faolan was taking away her brother, her lover. She lowered her gaze, her father placed a comforting hand on her shoulder, squeezing gently, "Do not fret, sweet girl, once we have reached King's Landing, things will settle down, traveling is tiring, that is all it is."Ned said, a faint smile formed on his lips, but his gray eyes seemed just as unsure as the way he had spoken those words: disbelieving, hesitant, and perturbed.
"Be sure that once we stop for a rest, that Arya does continue the rest of the journey in the carriage with the Queen, we do not want to seem rude."Eddard said,
"Aye, Father."Faolan replied, with a nod. Ned gave both his daughters a slight smile before he walked away, climbing atop of his own horse.
"My, it appears you have picked up a wander."
The scent of summertime roses had began to encircle her before his voice had reached her ears, Faolan closed her eyes, breathing in Jaime Lannister's sweet aroma, it soothed her thoughts, calmed her nerves that were on edge. Finally, she turned to see him, her handsome knight seated tall atop his white stallion, his golden locks glistening in the glow of the sunlight that rained upon him like a heavenly gleam. Faolan's heart began to flutter, a burning passion seemed to rise within her each time that he was near.
"Forgive, my small lady, but I believe I have forgotten your name, is it...Alaina or Lyra?"Jaime questioned, his eyes focused on Arya who pouted at him,
"It's Arya."She snapped, folding her arms across her chest.
"Ah yes, do forgive me, Lady Arya."The Lion said, with a nod, "May I ask why you here and not in the royal carriage along with my sister and the others?"He asked.
Faolan forced herself from her thoughts, a slight blush burned her cheeks, "Arya, is just riding with me for a little while, just until we stop for a rest. She doesn't like being sealed up inside the carriage, and wants to see the sights and breath in the fresh air."She fibbed.
"That's not why-"
"Shh, Arya."Faolan warned, giving her sister a forewarning look.
Jaime arched a brow at the sisters, "I see."He said,
"I hope that is all right, Ser Jaime."Faolan replied, as she climbed atop Luna, seated behind Arya.
"Of course, the more the merrier."The Lion said, a slight smile on his lips.
She knew that Jaime had wanted to ride beside her, alone, with no observers or young ears to hear. Her lips formed a purse line, she had wished the same, but she refused to place her sister somewhere she felt uncomfortable. Forgive me, Ser Jaime, She thought.
The royal cavalcade had been traveling for hours, and since they had left the Inn at the Crossroads behind them, Arya had began her questioning of the Kingslayer.
"Did you really kill the Mad King?"She asked abruptly, her first question.
"Arya!"Faolan hissed, warning her that she should not have asked such a thing.
"It is quite all right, Lady Faolan."Jaime reassured, his tone was a mixture of sorrow and vexation; Faolan looked at him pained, she wondered how many times in his life, he was asked the same question, called that horrid name that made her blood boil. "Yes, I did."He replied, hastily.
"My father says you stabbed in the back."Arya said.
"Arya, really."Faolan snapped, giving her sister a pinch.
"Yes, I did, Lady Arya."He once again answered quickly, signaling he wanted the subject to die.
"Don't call me 'lady',"Arya spat, "I don't want to be a lady, you can just call me Arya."
"Ah, well what is it that you want to be then, Arya Stark?"Jaime inquired, with a playful smile.
Arya glanced over at him and grinned, "I want to be a swordsman! Or a knight! You know I am better than...Bran," She said his name sadly and then continued, "with a bow and sword."
"How interesting."Jaime said, "You do know, that it takes lots of training and hard work."
"I know!"Arya grumbled, "I hope to be as good as Faolan, one day. Is it true that my sister beat you in your duel at Winterfell?"
Faolan smiled, remembering her playful spare with Jaime Lannister. Jaime chuckled, "Yes, she did beat me."He said,
"And you are supposed to be the best in all of Westeros!"Arya giggled, teasing the famed knight.
"Oh I am, but Westeros did not know that the North was hiding such a gem."Jaime said, his eyes washing over Faolan which caused her to blush.
"Tell me, Ser Jaime, at what age did you start training?"Faolan asked,
"I was eleven when I was sent to Crakehall, I squired for the old Lord Sumner Crakehall, alongside a lad named Merrett Frey, what a clumsy and stupid boy, his only positive trait was his strength, really."Jaime recollected, "Two years after that, while I was still a mere squire, I won my first tourney melee."
"You started out as a squire?"The She-Wolf said surprised, "I am shocked, it is hard to imagine the great Jaime Lannister, as a mere little squire, tending to the needs of a great knight."She teased.
Jaime smiled, "We all have to start somewhere, Lady Faolan."He replied with a wink, before he continued his tale, "At age fifteen when I participated in the campaign against the Kingswood Brotherhood."The Lion recalled, his emerald green sparkling with the remembrance of the days of yore, "I had saved Lord Crakehall from Big Belly Ben, and I crossed swords with the psychotic Smiling Knight." Faolan and Arya hung on to each word that Jaime Lannister spoke, has he spoke about his younger days, in such a way that it seemed that they, themselves where there beside him. "Have you heard of him?"He asked.
"N-No, I don't believe I have."Faolan said, she glanced down at Arya, who just shook her head, waiting for Ser Jaime to continue his tale,
"The Smiling Knight,"Jaime began again, his voice soft and grim, "he was a madman, cruelty and chivalry all jumbled together...h-he did not know the meaning of fear. I remember when I first saw him, my body went numb, but a sudden burst of adrenaline consumed me and I began to hold him off, it was Ser Arthur Dayne who killed him."He told, by now the company had ceased in moving and everyone was dismounting their horses to take a quick rest. The Lion and the wolf sisters dismounted their horses, and strolled towards the small creek, leading their horses to the cool waters to drink; Jaime stalked close to Faolan, closing the distance between them until there was none, tenderly he took Faolan's hand into his own, their fingers intertwined together, his fingertips gently brushing against the skin on the back of her hand, causing a sensual sensation to flow throughout her body.
"I-I am sorry if Arya's many questions bothered you."She replied,
"Think nothing of it, my lady, she is just a curious child, I did not take any offence."Jaime reassured.
"What are you two doing?"Arya asked, running in between the two, causing the connection of their hands to break,
"We are just talking, Arya, and you know it's rude to interrupt."Faolan barked,
"Sorry."Arya grumbled, her eyes moved to focus on Jaime Lannister and then to the sword strapped to his side, "So, is that the sword you used to kill the Mad King?"She asked, innocently, pointing to the blade.
Faolan's eyes rounded in surprise, "Arya Stark!"She roared, "Go! Go on and find Sansa, right now, and stay with her until we are ready to head out, you will ride in the carriage for the rest of the way."She snapped, glaring at her younger sister who shared the same expression before shuffling off, leaving the Lion and the She-Wolf alone once again. Faolan's brow furrowed, "I am sorry, Ser Jaime, Arya has yet to learn how to hold her tongue."She said.
"Reminds me of you,"He said, with a teasing smile, "it is quite all right, Lady Faolan. I imagine you were much like her when you were younger."
Faolan smiled. "Every much so, my father calls it 'wolf's blood', though I suppose I have a lot more than my siblings."She replied, lowering her gaze.
"I am glad, I do not want a timid little mouse for wife, little wolf."Jaime said, tenderly lifting her chin so she could face him. She smiled as her sapphire blue eyes, meet his green ones, she felt as if she were melting at his mere touch, and she desired more, but a sudden chill shivered down her spine, her eyes darted over and she could see the glowering green eyes of the Queen, as well as a few other wandering eyes peered in their direction.
"We have no freedom here."Faolan whispered.
"I do not care if the whole world sees, let them look, let her look!"Jaime snapped, turning his head to find his twin's envious eyes, he narrowed his orbs at her until she stormed away. "Cersei...she is nothing but a spoiled brat, who acts as if it is the end of the world if she does not have her way. It is always her way, what she wants."He growled under his breath. How did I ever become under her spell? He wondered,
"I am sorry."She said, softly, tenderly brushing a hand against his cheek, "I want to be near you...I-I have never wanted to be touched by someone so much,"She admitted, her face growing hot, "but...we should be more secretive until we are wed, then those pondering eyes will have nothing to gossip about."
"You are right."Jaime sighed. He slightly turned his head, Faolan's hand was still gently pressed against his cheek, but once he moved it caused his lips to be covered by her palm; tenderly he kissed the inside of her palm, she released a gasp as a fire began to roar deep within her core.
She wanted him, and she could sense that he wanted her; Faolan could sense Jaime's passion and desire, his longing for her, and if she would allow, she knew he would have taken her right there, not caring who saw. The She-Wolf closed her eyes and slowly removed her hand from the Lion's face, she released a shallow breath, calming her womanly longing, "I-I am sorry...I do not mean to...arouse you and leave you unfulfilled."Faolan said, ashamed.
"Don't...don't apologize."Jaime pleaded, "It is not your fault, Lady Faolan, it is I who should apologize, I need to control myself, please...forgive me."He begged, his eyes taking in every inch of her. In the warm glow of the sun, her porcelain skin seemed to glisten like polished marble, she looked up at him from under her long, dark lashes, and her dark sapphire eyes met his emerald ones. That was one of the many things he adored about her, her eyes, so large and beautiful and sad; even when she were in her direwolf form, and her eyes had shifted to that golden-amber hue, they were still beautiful, dangerous and fierce, and yet they still glistened with a dark saddness caused by years of cruel words murmured behind her back. A stab of guilt pierced him, for only days ago, he had been one of those to say such hate filled things about the mysterious She-Wolf; he had been the one to harm her younger brother, who was now probably dead. "I am sorry."His voice came out broken and remorseful.
Faolan smiled at him, "It is all right, Ser Jaime."She inspirited. "We should mount up, I believe the rest is over."She said, glancing around to see the company once again climbing atop their horses, she saw Sansa and Arya, along with Myrcella and Tommen all piling into the royal carriage, the Queen once again trailing behind them. The Lion and the She-Wolf mounted their horses and began to trail behind the large company that was now travelling down the dirt road as far as the eye could see.
Hours and hours had passed, and noontime was setting in as the large royal procession continued travelling on. The skies above were a clear blue with large iridescence clouds in various shades of grays, yellows, and pinks, the air was becoming warm, signaling that the North was far behind them. Jaime had continued telling Faolan stories of his childhood, but one in particular had captured her interest, the tale of the mysterious Knight of the Laughing Tree. Jaime had seemed surprised that she had never heard the tale, considering that Eddard Stark, himself, had been present that day long ago when the mysterious knight came and challenged three great knights and defeated them, and then vanished leaving only an abandoned shield in a tree.
"Ser Jaime?"Faolan said, after a brief moment of silence between the two,
"Yes?"He asked,
"Is King's Landing really the villainous, shit hole as everyone claims?"She inquired.
"Oh it is, but even the ugliest places have some beauty."Jaime replied, with a smirk.
Faolan raised a brow, "Like what?"She asked, curious about the capital of the Seven Kingdoms.
"Why don't you see for yourself?"The Lion smiled, nodding his head forward.
Faolan furrowed her brow puzzled and then turned, her eyes widened in awe as she gazed upon the large towering city walls, she had been so captured by Jaime's stories she had not realized that they were travelling down a path near the crystal blue seas which seemed to go on forever, large black rocks seemed to spill about the white sandy shores. In the distance high above the rest of the city was notorious Red Keep, overshadowing the lower part of the city in a mast of red bricked palace walls, towers, and archways. A chill of excitement and terror seemed to slither down her spine, she could not wait to see the enormous red place up close and personal, she longed to see the throne room and the great iron chair that had started so many wars and blood shed. A smile surrounded her face as her eyes continued to hold the Red Keep in view, sitting above the rest of city like a great fiery red gemstone, perched high on a pedestal. "King's Landing."The She-Wolf gasped.