A/N Another update! I hope you guys enjoy this chapter, I really liked writing it. Thanks to all the people who reviewed on the double update, and as always keep them coming! I take into consideration your idea's and wants for this story, so I just want you to know that I am listening. Cheers :)
Standing in the court yard, the sky was a dull blue as the sun had yet to fully reveal itself from the horizon. Saying my farewells to the family, Dalton stood just off to the side while the carriage and soldiers waited patiently for us. Squeezing my arms tighter around her waist, I kissed Lyanna on the cheek. It was difficult not to cry during a moment like this, but I just had to tell myself this wasn't goodbye forever – I'll see them all soon again.
"I love you Lyanna" I whispered in her ear "and I'll write to you whenever I can, I promise" smiling, I stepped back and walked over to Dalton.
"Are you ready?" he asked while looking down at me. Nodding my head in response, I fear I'd be a blubbering mess if I were to speak anymore. Taking my hand, a squire opened the carriage door and I stepped inside. Turning for one last glimpse of my family, I engraves their faces to memory before the door was closed.
A decent and spacious carriage, it almost felt too big for just myself. Made with finely carved wood, the inside had two seats either side with a few cushions, and there was a window with draped curtains. Earlier on this morning, I had decided to take my embroidery and a book with me so that I could have something to do. I remember the journey to Harrenhal was almost unbearable with nothing but conversation as entertainment.
Listening to all the men mount their horses, another minutes passed before the carriage jolted forward and we were making our way out of the East Gate and onto the Kingsroad. Leaning forward, I undid the latch on the window. Peering out, the snow covered hills ran for miles and as I turned my head I could see us moving through the Gate; the site of Winter Village up ahead.
Feeling my chest tighten a little, a chill ran down my spine as butterflies flapped in my stomach. Sitting back in my seat, I stared ahead at the wooden wall and empty seat. It's only been a minute and already I missed them. Taking deep calming breaths, I kept the window open so that it could allow some fresh air. Tugging my fur coat tighter I reached for my book and began reading – if only to speed time and take my mind off of it all.
Several days and nights had passed and with it the feeling of being alone had slowly ebbed away, as the long journey to Kingslanding was just about to come to an end. Stretching my arms, I closed my eyes tight as I let out a sigh. My body ached from having to sit in such a tedious position for hours on end, and I was more than relieved to hear that we were fast approaching the Capital.
Already I could hear the voices of merchants and various other people as they straggled their way along the road, heading to the city gate. Peering out the carriage window, my lips parted at the great and tall wall encompassing the city. Passing under the Dragon gate we entered onto the main road and immediately I couldn't help but notice how more alive this place is. There's people everywhere I looked, either dressed in fine silk or dirty rags; walking along alley ways, by the street or simply sitting on the balcony of a building.
Listening to the hustle and bustle of the streets, I took in several of the sites and décor. Some of the places looked worse for wear but as we ventured further into the heart of the city, the buildings started to become better looking and even luxurious. However, nothing compared to the site that stood ahead of me now – the Red Keep itself. It was so large and grand I wanted to pinch myself to make sure it was real and not an elaborate dream.
Startled from my day dream, Dalton had pulled his mocha coloured horse up beside the window "So you've finally seen it then…it's magnificent, isn't it"
"Very...I almost can't believe I'll be staying inside its walls" smiling so wide my cheeks hurt, I could hear Dalton chuckling beside me.
"You'll get used to it eventually, but when I've got time off I fully intend to take you exploring" he announced making me raise an eyebrow. Exploring? To where? "The city has more to offer than just the Red Keep, even if it is the main attraction so to speak…there's dozens of markets we can go visit, there's also some of the finest bakeries here, and if you'd like, we could even take a walk through the gardens"
Lost in another one of my fantasy world, my mind instantly wandered to the image of thousands of flowers – all bright and beautiful, where high ladies took their afternoon strolls. I giggled before resting my arms on the window sill "Alright, I'd love that very much"
"Good, then I will make it happen" he smiled. Turning his head, Dalton looked to the distance before announcing "we're almost at the Keep" grabbing the reins tight he headed back up to the front and I looked to see we were passing underneath a large stone archway; a guard standing either side. Once we had passed completely through, my eyes were met with the elaborate and well-kept front court gardens filled with trimmed hedges and fountains; a large dirt path winding all the way through to the grand entrance of the Red Keep.
Breathing in, I could smell the water from the few ponds and the scent of roses. Compared to the actual city itself, the inside of the Keep was a completely different place. Sitting back in my seat, I tugged the laces of my sleeves tighter and un-crinkled my dress before checking my hair. I didn't want my first appearance here to be frazzled and unkempt – that would most certainly not leave a good impression.
Placing a hand to my chest, our very imminent arrival to the front of the castle had my heart racing a million miles a minute. My head was starting to swirl and butterflies erupted in my stomach from nerves. I started to over think. What if I trip and fall? What if I stutter when I speak to someone? What if I don't act the proper way for the South? Maybe some of their customs are different. Pinching my hand, I need to calm myself down and stop over reacting – everything's going to be just fine. It's nothing to be afraid of.
Feeling the carriage come to a grinding halt, my racing heart had abated enough for me not to hyperventilate on the spot. Opening the carriage door with a click, I took the squires outstretched hand and stepped out. I indeed thought everything was going to be okay, that it wasn't something to work myself up over. It was a good sign and start that I hadn't stumbled out of the carriage, but as I looked up at the view before me with a welcoming smile on my face – my heart almost stopped dead.
Standing at the top of the steps was not only the King and Queen themselves, but also their son – Rhaegar. Standing in all his glory and handsomeness he looked as utterly perfect as last we met, and as if the Gods weren't cruel enough, his wife and two children were by his side. I almost wanted to get back in the carriage or pick up my dress and run away. I couldn't believe this was happening – it's a sick joke.
Linking my arm with Dalton we made our way up the steps and I kept my head down, I didn't want to accidently catch his eye. I think I'd turn red from some kind of embarrassment "Your majesties" he bowed and I curtsied "I'd like to introduce my fiancé, Mileena Stark"
"A pleasure your grace" I said with a nod.
"A Stark" spoke the King with a slight grumble in his tone "well at least she's a pretty little thing. There's nothing worse than having to look at a foul toad of a woman" feeling his aged eyes wander over me from head to toe, I kept my eyes down; it was rude to stare openly at Royalty. Although I was glad the King himself deemed me pretty enough to look at it – I couldn't imagine the alternative, to be described as a foul toad.
"We've arranged an afternoon tea in the Gardens, if you'd be kind enough to join us?" interrupted the Queen, Rhaella. She seemed unfazed by her husband's crass words but also unimpressed at the same time.
Gazing at Rhaella's fine features, the Queen still looked rather beautiful considering her age, with long silvery white hair and pale skin. Of course there were slight wrinkles along her eyes and mouth, but nothing like her other half, the King. You could tell time had not been on his side over the long years of his reign. Although I could imagine him in his youth, looking handsome and strong like his son.
"Of course, we'd be honoured your grace" replied Dalton.
"Good" she gave a warm smile "please, follow us" taking her husband's arm, the Kings thin white locks flowed in the wind beneath his heavy crown. I could hear the servants behind us starting to unpack the carriage, and as we walked slightly behind the rest I squeezed Daltons arm a fraction tighter. I had hoped the first introduction had gone well.
Leaning down, Dalton pressed a kiss to my temple before whispering in my ear "You did well. There's nothing to worry about, just be yourself" nodding my head, I mustered up a smile.
Entering a large wooden door, the space inside was marvellous and ever tall and wide. The floors were marble and the columns hand crafted, I could see gold in several of the decorations and of course, servants and guards were everywhere you looked. The place was heavily fortified and it would be hard to go anywhere without a dozen people knowing about it. I suppose in a place like Kingslanding there's no such thing as a secret.
Following along the large space of the open foyer, we turned down a wide hallway before crossing a stone bridge; a large lake flowing underneath. Looking ahead of us I could already see the beginning of the gardens. It was like a maze of hedges and exotic plants. I'd most certainly become lost if I didn't have someone to show me the way.
Coming up to a large fountain with a statue of mighty dragon centred in the middle; its wings were unfolded and vicious jaws open wide to allow water to spurt out. Circling around the fountain to the other side, there stood an undercover area that looked out over the cliffs and onto the sea. A spectacular view for someone who's never seen the ocean before. It was like a blue abyss that went on as far at the eye could see.
Waiting for us, a table for seven had been set up with fine plates, and several platters had been filled with sandwiches, fruit and baked goods. Taking my seat next to Dalton, I thanked the Gods that the person who sat on the other side of me wasn't Rhaegar but his three year old daughter Rhaenys. She looked just like her mother, with sun kissed skin and raven black hair. But there was no denying, she was indeed a cute little child.
Pouring a fresh cup of black tea, the servant placed it down in front of me "I've never been to Winterfell or the North for that matter, what is it like Lady Stark?" asked the Queen as she stirred in sugar and cream.
"Not as vibrant as the Capitol, but it has its moment your grace" sitting at the table surrounded by all Royalty, I felt more than uncomfortable with their presence. I felt as if I were too low in station to be having afternoon tea with them and I wondered just how close Dalton is too the King for this to be happening.
"Perhaps I should visit one day in the future"
"My family would be honoured to have you stay with them" I replied with a smile before taking a small sip from my steaming cup. Settling it gently down onto the saucer, I had zoned out of the conversation between Dalton and the King when a small tug on my dress caused me to look beside me. It was Rhaenys, her doe eyes staring up at me as she presented a scone.
"Do you want one? They're really yummy" she said while taking a crumbling bite of the half eaten scone in her other hand. Smiling up at me, her cheeks were like little apples and I could see some flower on the corner of her lips.
"Thank you" I said while taking it from her small hand, it was so tiny. Giggling with a mouthful of food, I could tell she was kicking her legs under the table as the cloth moved back and forth. Smiling, I couldn't help but fall in love with the innocent little girl. Taking a bite, I hummed lightly with a smile "it's very good" I said after swallowing.
"We have the best cooks" she said before taking another bite "sometimes when I'm hungry or not feeling well, Miss Piccan will make me scones. There my favourite" leaning in she whispered "but mummy says I'll get a tummy ache if I eat too many" turning to me in her chair, she looked up at me with her complete attention "what's your favourite thing to eat?"
"My favourite" I hummed "it would have to be lemon tarts"
Making a sower face, she scrunched up her little button nose "I don't like those, they make my tongue go funny" feeling a smile make its way onto my face, I laughed. Picking up my cup of tea I took another sip and leant back in my chair. With the small distraction I had almost forgotten about the others until I turned my attention back to the table. Still talking to each other, Dalton was well engaged with the King who sat beside him.
Glancing at Elia who tended to her infant son, I could suddenly feel a drilling pair of eyes that belonged to that of Rhaegar. Sitting in the seat between his wife and mother, he peeled small chunks off of a green apple with a knife before chewing it. Swallowing the lump in my throat, I shifted in my chair and looked away. I wanted to pretend that he wasn't there and that he was just another person at the table, but as hard as I tried I couldn't manage to get rid of his burrowing gaze. I felt as if his eyes were burning every inch of me and I wish I could tell him to stop, but I doubt that would go down well with the rest of his family.
Picking up a lemon tart from one of the stacked sauces, I bit into it and I almost wanted to hum from the satisfying taste it left in my mouth. It was equal parts sweet and sour and I wanted to praise the cook for making it so heavenly "When do you plan on marrying lady Stark?" taken from my moment of bliss, I was a little shocked to find it came from the lips of Elia Martell.
Sitting in her chair, Elia cradled the baby boy close to the warmth of her chest and the site made me feel somewhat faint. Not because of Elia herself, but because for a brief second – I had imagined myself holding a fragile infant of my own. It disturbed me to know that I was carrying the child of the man sitting beside her, and not a single soul at this table was the wisest about it.
"We've arranged it to be a month from my now. My mother will be here in a few weeks' time to help me plan it" I replied without stumbling on my words. I was glad and honoured that Elia was talking to me, all things considered, and I didn't want to look like a fool by not be able to speak plainly. By the sounds of things talking to royalty will have to be something I'll have to become accustomed too.
"I'm pleased to hear" during our conversation I had noticed her Dornish accent wasn't as thick as some I've heard, most likely due to her living in Kingslanding for so long. Looking up from her son as she gently patted his back with her hand, she asked "would you permit us to attend you're wedding? The King insists that we do"
"Yes, of course. That would be wonderful" I said with a friendly smile. The way she had worded it had me thinking that although she was talking to me, I don't think Elia approved of me as much as it seemed. Sitting back in my chair, I took a sip of my tea and after another fifteen or so minutes I had started to feel somewhat unwell. I didn't know if it was because of the pregnancy or because of how many lemon tarts I had consumed.
Avoiding all other food I sat quiet and still, hoping that the sickness would go away – but it never usually did until I physically became sick. After another five minutes I couldn't bare it anymore. Wiping my mouth with the cloth napkin on my lap, I got up from my spot at the table "Please excuse me, I'm not feeling very well"
"Of course" nodded the Queen. I was thankful she was quick about it and didn't question the ordeal. Immediately leaving the table, I got ten paces around the corner of the hedge before I collapsed to my knees. Slapping a hand across my mouth, I used all my strength as to not heave into the garden bushes. The last thing I needed was to make a scene of myself during the first day of my arrival.
With my eyes shut as I knelt hunched over on the ground trying to get rid of the dizziness, I felt a large warm hand rest on my back to start rubbing smooth and soothing circles. Smiling to myself that Dalton had come to see I was okay, I felt much better now that he was here. Feeling him dap away the slight sheen of sweat on my forehead, I grabbed his hand and held it in my lap; my finger running over the palm of his hand, they felt smoother but I didn't think much of it.
"You didn't have to leave. I'm alright" I said before opening my eyes and turning to look at him.
"It doesn't seem that way…"
Almost leaping out of my skin and soul at the sound of his voice, my eyes met ones that weren't at all the familiar emerald green I had become accustomed to. The person crouched beside me with his hand in both of mine wasn't Dalton at all – it was Rhaegar. Feeling instant dread wash over me like a cloud of smoke, I immediately let go of his hand and stood up. Wobbling from slight dizziness, he too stood to tower over me.
"What are you doing?" I snapped with a hiss I knew I should have kept at bay. His parents and wife were only just around the corner and then some "where's Dalton?" I frowned.
"Still at the table talking with my father. He didn't seem too bothered by your condition. Apparently you've been rather ill recently" replied Rhaegar as he crossed his arms. It's true, Dalton knew that I was unwell as I couldn't manage to hide it from him during the trip from Winterfell "you should see the Maester about your sickness. You might have caught something on your travel" he suggested with a slight tilt of his head.
"As I've already said, I'll be fine…I just need to rest, so if you'll excuse me, I'd like to go to my room" curtsying, I walked as quickly as I could and I didn't once look back.
Making my way to the familiar dragon fountain, I noticed the sun was only just starting to set in the sky. What I should have done was gone back to the others but instead, as I walked through the several pathways, I had managed to find myself lost in the maze of the garden. I couldn't help but scold myself for being so stupid and not thinking. Because it was getting so late no one was really strolling about and I couldn't exactly scream for help, I'd be the talk of the court by the next day.
Standing at a cross section, I looked left and right. Everything seemed to look so similar and I hadn't kept track of every direction when we had first entered the garden "You have a bad habit of getting lost. No sense of direction at all" spoke the familiar voice from behind. Gritting my teeth I turned around.
"Why are you following me?"
"I'm following you because if I didn't, I highly doubt anyone would be able to find you again" walking around me, I had to turn to look at him "the gardens span for a mile either way and unless I help you, I don't think you'll be leaving here any time soon"
Taking a deep breath, I looked up at him "Then will you please help me?" looking me up and down with his deep eyes, as much as I did miss Rhaegar when we left the tourney, a certain irritation had set itself inside of me since then. I wasn't sure if it was because of the feelings and thoughts I was trying so hard to supress, or because of the baby. I know it was common for woman to feel agitated and sensitive when pregnant.
"Yes, I'll help you…but only if you do something for me" now it was my turn to eye him up and down. Not this again.
"Kiss me" he said in a serious tone, his eyes set on mine.
Scoffing, I crossed my arms "No…I'm not kissing you. Not here. Not ever" turning around, I began to walk off "you can keep your offer, I'll find my own way out"
"Even if it takes you all night?"
"Even if it takes me eternity" I replied before walking around a corner. There wasn't any way I was going to fall into that familiar pit. I was lucky to claw my way out the last time, and besides, things are different now – I'm going to be happily married in a month's time. I'm certainly not going to ruin my future for him, a man who'd probably toss me aside like an old bone once I became too boring.
Taking another left, I bumped into a firm chest and I almost had hope that it was someone who could show me the way out – but when I looked up my hopes were crushed "You're going in circles" sighed Rhaegar.
"And you're still following me…" I muttered back before turning around and heading in another direction. Sighing as I looked this way and that, I could tell Rhaegar was still trailing behind me – no doubt laughing at my struggle.
"You could easily resolve your problem, and by the looks of things" he said with a gesture to the sky as it started to set further "it wouldn't be such a bad idea. It's getting late and the more you walk around, the further away we become"
Walking a few more steps, I stopped. I've been here less than twenty-four hours and already he's trying to play me into his hand – already I feel helpless. Clenching my fists, I gritted my teeth in irritation. If I don't do it, then I'll be lost out here for God knows how long and I can't afford the attention it would bring. What would they be thinking as of right now? Would Dalton be worried for me? How suspicious was it when Rhaegar left?
"Fine…" turning around on the spot I faced him "I'll kiss you…but you have to promise me you'll take me back. No games" I said sternly. Giving me a curt nod, I slowly stepped forward. There it was again, my heart pounding beneath my chest like a rapid drum.
Reaching up on my tippy toes I pressed a quick peck on his lips, but as I went to move away he had pulled me in closer. Grabbing the sides of my face I could feel his thumb graze along my cheek as he pressed his lips harder against mine. What did he think he was doing? Pushing against his chest, he didn't let go and his arms snaked around my waist to hold me still. Pulling away, he rested his forehead against mine "Kiss back" he ordered.
"No" my breaths were laboured and I my cheeks were flushed.
"Why not?" he asked "and I want a reason this time Little Pup, not the excuse of someone could see" he mocked.
"That is a reason and a very good one" I replied as I looked up into his deep eyes. I had almost forgotten what he looked like up close. I had almost forgotten how it felt for him to hold me like he is.
"No, it isn't" he stated. Leaning in, Rhaegar began to leave feather light kisses along my jaw and temple "I could take you in front of a hundred men and woman, and if the price is right, it would be as if it never happened" he said before leaning away "people see and hear only what I want them too"
Standing silently still in his arms, I didn't know what to think or how to react. I hated it when he said things like that, it made me feel dirty and not at all like myself. It made me realise what type of a person Rhaegar could be and I wondered, if anywhere in his body, is there any part of him that's loving and compassionate?
"Why is it you won't be with me?" he questioned, his voice low "what happened over the last two months that made you this way?"
"What, respectable and responsible?" I snapped before looking away. He had yet to let go of me "…what happened at the tourney was a mistake, I never should have been so stupid and ignorant" I sighed "you have no idea what it's like to be a woman in this world – to be ridiculed at every twist and turn. You men can do as you like, but when it comes to us – we have to grow up and stop acting like children. I suggest you do the same, if you ever want to be a real King"
Pushing him off of me with a hard shove, I walked past him and turned along another hedge corner. This conversation was over, and I'm glad Rhaegar didn't try to follow me. Walking along pathways, I couldn't help the tightening in my chest and sting behind my eyes. Listening to my hiccupped breaths as I breathed in the rose scented air, I could barely see from the tears clouding my vision. Walking quick paced, a man had stepped out from seemingly now where and it wasn't Rhaegar.
Dressed in a long golden silk robe that touched the ground, his stomach was round and he had no hair on top of his head. Standing with his hands joined together, he had an almost friendly face that held no facial hair and his eyes were hazel with a hint of green. Collecting myself, I curtsied "Lord Varys"
"My lady" he bowed. Looking me up and down, he held a worried expression as he stepped closer "what seems to be the matter?"
"Nothing of interest…it's just been a rather long day. I got lost heading back and I've been trying to find my way out for hours it feels" I said with a slight chuckle to lighten the mood.
"Please, allow me" he said with a gesture of his hand "I know how easy it is to get lost in a web as elaborate as the Royal Garden" nodding my head I offered him a smile.
"That would be most kind" offering his arm, I took it and we continued on our journey. Weaving our way through the hedge like maze, we came upon a larger walk way where the stone bridge lay ahead of us; two Kingsguard standing either side. Letting go of his arm, Varys clutched both of my hands in his and I turned to face him "if you ever need anything Lady Stark, please don't hesitate to ask. I offer my service and discretions to all of those here in court" he said with a smile.
"Thank you Lord Varys" nodding my head, I curtsied before making my way over the stone bridge – my walked to freedom from yet another nightmare, and to think when I finally do marry Dalton, I'll have a life time of it. How will I survive?