The first rays of sunlight warmed her skin as they made their way down the street. Despite the early hour, many were already out. Most were hurrying from their homes to begin a day of work. These people were easy to detect by their clean clothes, clear eyes and rapid steps. A rarer sight was to find someone stumbling in the opposite direction, leaving a tavern or a brothel and finally starting the overdue journey that would end in their beds. Unlike the workers, their clothes were wrinkled and unkept, they staggered frequently and one man Daenerys saw actually needed the support of nearby buildings to keep from falling. She drank it all in gladly, even the parts she found revolting, because good or bad, she couldn't see any of this from her room in the Red Keep.

They secured their horses at the first available post and continued on foot. Arya insisted on carrying the clothes. Daenerys had suggested they divide the large pile, but Arya wouldn't allow it. Although it was common for guards to carry things for her, she got the impression that Arya wasn't doing it out of a sense of duty. It was more likely she wanted to and that made it better in every way.

She took her eyes off the merchant who was opening his store and turned her attention to the sky. It was bright, with vivid colors. How many mornings had she watched the sunrise through her window? Dozens, hundreds perhaps? It felt like the first time again. Today, she wasn't just seeing it, she was living it.

As usual, Arya covered her armor and left her helmet behind, allowing Daenerys to feel like just another woman in the city. She loved it. "Look at that," she remarked casually.

"It's beautiful," Arya agreed. Daenerys did her best to memorize all the colors and the way they melded together. She knew her best recollection would be pitiful in comparison to the real thing, but she tried anyway.

They went another block in easy silence, before Arya said, "Daenerys, wait!"

Daenerys froze instantly. Arya never issued orders, never gave commands. She searched their surroundings for danger, for something that had the guard on alert, but she found nothing. The only thing unusual was that Daenerys herself was three steps ahead of her guard, when they were typical side by side. She backed up. "What's wrong?"

"I'm sorry," Arya said immediately, "my hands are full or else I would've redirected you with a hand."

Daenerys's cheeks warmed as she remembered how Arya steered her in one direction or the other with a hand on her arm or back. She cursed Arya's sweet willingness to carry all the clothes. If Daenerys had persuaded her to share the load, she would have gotten to experience Arya guiding her again. It wasn't the way she wanted Arya to touch her, but it was better than nothing and she'd take what she could get.

"The orphanage is this way," Daenerys explained feebly. Surely Arya knew where the orphanage was, they'd gone there the day before.

"It's still early, the kids probably aren't even awake yet and there is something else I want you to see."

She punctuated her point with a smile, one that did things to Daenerys's stomach. She didn't need know where they were going or why. It was enough that Arya mentioned it. "Sounds interesting."

Given how their day began, Daenerys was nervous that things would be strained between her and Arya. The nightmare combined with the nudity would be a lot for anyone. Arya seemed unbothered by it, at least outwardly. She was relaxed and the conversation flowed easily. Arya apologized for not feeding the Princess before they left the castle, and promised they'd make a stop to ensure she got breakfast. Daenerys happily and honestly replied that a little hunger was worth their early departure. She made a point to thank Arya for thinking of it.

When she realized where they were going, she slowed her steps and met Arya's eye. "There likely won't be many new ships. One or two could have come in overnight I suppose, but…"

"For once," Arya interrupted gently, "we didn't come here so you could admire the ships."

"We didn't?"

A handful of steps later and Daenerys understood why they'd come. She thought the sunrise was beautiful in the city, decorating the sky, and warming the good people, but that was nothing. The way the light reflected off the water was breathtaking. She didn't have words for how perfect it looked, so she just stared dumbly.

Daenerys forced her eyes away from the spot in the distance where the water and the sky met. Over her shoulder Arya waited patiently, adjusting the cargo. "Thank you so much for this," she said. "I had no idea I was missing out on this every morning."

"You're welcome."

R-C

The Septa was surprised to see them. It was a forgivable reaction given that the Princess had provided donations just yesterday and said nothing about returning. That said, she was gracious and invited them in. "Princess Daenerys, I wasn't aware you'd be returning so soon." She gasped when she heard her own words and made the appropriate amendment. "You're welcome anytime of course, please take a seat. The children are just starting to wake, and they'll begin trickling out shortly."

Daenerys smiled warmly, unbothered by the Septa's comment. "Yesterday after I left, I realized how inconsiderate it was of me to only bring dresses for the children." Arya could tell the Septa was going to interject, to claim her generosity was more than enough but she didn't get the chance. "Last night I spoke with Prince Aemon. He asked that I bring some of his clothes as well, to be modified to fit the boys."

"That is very kind. Please thank the Prince for me, and for all of us here."

Daenerys drew attention to the clothes Arya was carrying. "Where can I put these?" the guard asked.

"Anywhere is fine," the Septa assured her, "and thank you again. This will help so many in need." Arya found a small table off to the side. It was low to the ground and she guessed it was where orphans gathered to play games, but it was a fine spot to temporarily store the clothes.

"I want to help. If there is anything else you require Septa, please do not hesitate to say. I've recently taken over a portion of the charitable giving on behalf of the Crown and I'd be more than happy to put you on the calendar if you wish."

This caught the Septa by surprise. "That's great. Traditionally such requests go through the Master of the Coin."

"Usually yes, but Lord Tyrion is quite busy with other matters, causing a delay in dispensing charity."

The Septa smiled and reached for Daenerys's hand. "That is great. Now all the people of King's Landing will learn you are selfless and generous, just as I have."

From where she was standing Arya bit down on her bottom lip to keep from smiling too broadly as she listened to the older woman heap praise on the Princess. In this case, Arya actually agreed with the Septa. Many nobles gave money or donated their time, but Daenerys seemed genuinely committed to trying to improve things for people who were less fortunate. Unlike most highborn, she cared more about doing her good deeds than being acknowledged for them. It was a rare combination.

When she rejoined the conversation, the Septa was still going. "With these clothes, we'll be able to make several new pieces of clothing for each child. This will make a big difference in each and every one of their lives, Princess."

"I'm happy to help."

While they spoke, a little boy made his way out of his room. His hair was wild, he was topless, and he was wiping sleep from his eye as he approached. Since the Septa and Daenerys were occupied, Arya set to intercept him before he reached them. She couldn't do much, but she was capable of making sure the boy ate. She squatted down in front of him. "I'm Arya, what's your name?"

He lowered his hand from his eye. "Wil."

"Are you hungry Wil? I bet you're hungry."

He was wary of the guard, but the promise of food won the day. He nodded. Straightening up Arya held out her hand for him to take. When he did, she went with him to one of the three large tables used for meals.

He was a little too short to get into the chair by himself, so Arya provided a helpful boost. Once she was confident he wouldn't fall, she asked, "What would you like?"

The Septa answered for him. "There is oatmeal in the kitchen and bowls in the cupboard."

"I'll take care of it." To Little Wil, she whispered, "You stay here, and I'll get you something to eat, sound good?"

He nodded again and rewarded her efforts with a smile. He was missing one of his front teeth but even Arya could see he was cute.

In the next room everything was as the Septa said it would be. She scooped oatmeal into a bowl for Wil and then spotted pitchers of juice and milk. She carried as much as she could at once and set it all on the table near Wil's chair. She presented him with his breakfast first and then positioned the juice nearby. On her second trip to the kitchen she collected an arm full of empty cups along with the milk.

In addition to a lot more children, several of the adults who cared for them had also emerged. Most were already in action, pouring glasses or settling orphans. It was busy, but not chaotic. The children despite their hunger were well-behaved, and the staff worked seamlessly to make sure all their needs were met.

After she set the milk down, a pretty young girl of about nine smiled and thanked her. The sentiment was echoed by a young woman about Arya's age, who was on her way from the kitchen balancing more bowls of oatmeal than Arya would dare to try and carry.

She decided to make herself useful by putting the oatmeal into bowls. It was an easy job and one she could do quietly and alone, while still contributing. Before long they fell into a routine that worked. The bowls were ready when the staff came to get them.

Midway through, Daenerys appeared at Arya's side. "How can I help?"

"I'm not sure actually," she admitted. "I don't know who needs what. The children would probably like to say they had breakfast with a Princess. Why don't you go and sit with them?"

She hadn't meant it as an insult but that was how Daenerys took it. "I will not go and sit when everyone else is working tirelessly to feed all these children. Put me to work."

A glance to her right revealed that she was running out of empty bowls. "That cupboard there," she said pointing, "bring as many bowls as you can and then run and tell me how many people still need oatmeal."

Before she did as instructed Daenerys paused directly behind Arya and leaned into her, pressing her breasts into the guard's back. "See," she teased, "that wasn't so hard, was it." She laughed lightly, and then continued to the cupboard. "Now you'll get to tell people you ordered the Princess around."

She took her eyes off the pot she was stirring and tried to match Daenerys's smile with one of her own. "It was less of an order and more of a polite request."

"Either way, here are your bowls."

"Much obliged m'lady," Arya said with a bow. Daenerys was already moving toward the dining area, but she wasn't too far away to prevent Arya from hearing her laughter for a second time.

R-C

By the time the children were finished eating and began to leave the tables to go and play, Daenerys felt like she was in need of a nap.

She always suspected the Septa was overworked but now she had confirmation. Even with two extra sets of hands, the adults never stopped during breakfast. From the moment Arya helped the first boy into his seat, until the last girl who ate the final bite, there was always more to do.

While some wiped down the tables, Arya and several others were in the kitchen, doing the dishes. Daenerys meant to join them but was stopped by the Septa before she could. "Thank you so much Princess, you returning with more donations was beyond kind, choosing to stay and assist us, I'm not sure 'thank you' is enough."

"It's more than enough," Daenerys contended. "Hopefully my schedule will allow me to visit you and the children here more often."

"They'd like that and so would I. You are always welcome here."

"I appreciate that." And she did. She didn't know if Rhaegar would allow her more frequent outings, but she could hope. She also knew Arya would be returning to Sunspear soon and that would likely limit the number of opportunities she had to spend her mornings like this.

"May I ask a question Princess?"

"Of course, anything."

"Your friend, I do not recognize her. Who is she? I only ask because a number of the others have told me what a big help she was to them."

Daenerys grinned. "That sounds like Arya. She is my guard and my friend."

"Oh, I wasn't aware… Oh, well please thank her for all of us."

"I will. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to spend a few minutes with the children before I have to go."

"Of course," the Septa said, stepping back and letting her pass. "I think they'd like that."

"So would I."

R-C

Arya stood off to the side watching Daenerys read to a group of orphans. She may have been looking at the Princess a little too intently, actively trying not to remember what the red dress was hiding. If she'd been more alert, she would have noticed the boy's approach. "Is that a sword?"

He was about ten, with dark brown hair and matching eyes. "Yes, I'm Princess Daenerys's guard."

"You're a girl!"

"I am, and you're a boy," she retorted gently.

"Girls can't be guards!" he said, his loud voice drawing the attention of some of his peers.

Arya wasn't sure how to respond. It was true that in this part of the Realm girls could not be guards, but in Dorne things were different. How could she explain that to a child?

Luckily, she didn't have to, a pair of girls who had been enjoying Daenerys's storytelling got up and raced over, rushing to Arya's defense. "Why not? Girls can do anything boys can, and they can do it better."

"Yeah," her friend chimed in.

"They can not!" the male resisted. His face turned red as aggravation set in.

"Princess Daenerys is a Targaryen," one of the little girls explained logically, "I bet she gets the best guards. If she chose her, then she must be the best."

"You're both right actually," Daenerys said as she came to stand between the warring factions. She ruffled the boy's hair. "Usually in King's Landing guards are men, so you're right."

"See!" he called as soon as his point had been validated. He went so far as to stick his tongue out at the girls opposite him.

"But you two are also right," Daenerys continued, addressing the females. "Arya is my guard and I chose her because she was the best out of hundreds of others."

All the children looked at the soldier with wonder. "Really?" the boy verified. "You?"

"How many were in your training with you?" Daenerys asked, though Arya was sure she remembered.

"I was the only woman in a group of more than three hundred."

"And you finished first?" one of the girls clarified, her voice filled with youthful awe. Arya guessed she would have sounded the same if she'd been given the chance to speak to an unfamiliar soldier, especially a woman, at that age.

"Yes, in my final challenge I had to spar with a man who was bigger, stronger and faster. He beat me in every test we'd ever been given."

"What happened?"

"He was tough, and he almost had me, but I won," she recited fondly.

"No wonder you picked her," a girl with blonde hair said to Daenerys.

"She's a great guard," Daenerys confirmed. "She's kept me safe and become one of my dearest friends."

Arya was just about to thank Daenerys for averting a disaster when one of the girl's asked a question that had the potential to destroy the fragile peace. "Can I be a guard too?"

The adults looked at one another. How could they respond? It wasn't possible in the Crownlands, telling her otherwise would be a lie, but shattering her dreams felt worse.

Daenerys squatted down to look the girl in the eye. "You can be whatever you want to be, a guard or a merchant, a wife and a mother. Just because someone tells you that you can't do something doesn't mean you have to listen."

"Okay," she said, cheered by Daenerys's encouragement.

"You just keep practicing and working hard and one day, maybe I'll make you my guard."

"I will, I will, thank you Princess!" she gushed.

As they walked away Arya whispered. "That was kind of you. I would have loved to have heard that when I was young."

"You found a way, so can she."

"She's happy now," Arya pointed out, "but when she's older, she'll learn the truth, that women aren't allowed to take up arms here."

Daenerys looked back at the young girl they were discussing. "That may be the King's law now, but by the time she's old enough to begin her training, my father may not be King, and the rules may be different."

She almost reminded Daenerys that it was Rhaegar and not her who would lead after the Mad King, but she held her tongue. Who knows, maybe Rhaegar would be willing to permit women into the city guard. Stranger things had happened in Westeros.

R-C

They were preparing to leave when Arya pulled her aside. Daenerys immediately assumed the worst. "Is something wrong?"

"I still have the gold you got from Tyrion, did you want to give it to the Septa or…"

The gold?! She'd forgotten all about it. "Yes, absolutely. We were talking about it when the kids started coming out of their rooms and we got distracted."

"Understandable," Arya supplied reaching under her cloak to produce the pouch of coins.

The Septa was thanking Daenerys and Arya for a third time, when Daenerys was finally able to get a word in. "I have one more gift for you," she began. "I imagine that few among you here have the time to tailor the donated clothes into items for the children, am I right?"

"That is true, but I've already spoken to a local seamstress. She's going to come by in the next several days and is willing to give some of her time."

"That is very generous of her. Now you'll be able to reward her properly for her kindness." She held out the money for the older woman to take. "This should be enough to hire that seamstress and others like her to do the necessary work."

The Septa was at a loss. "Princess…" she said before trailing off.

"If there are unforeseen expenses or if something comes up that requires attention, please come to the keep and make an appointment. I'll do everything in my power to aid you in the good work you do here."

With tears in her eyes, the Septa replied. "Thank you, Princess, thank you so much. I'll make sure all the children know who to thank for their new clothes."

Daenerys blushed and looked down. She wasn't doing this for gratitude. "That's not necessary. I'll come back as soon as I can, but in the meantime, you take care of them, and yourself."

Holding the purse in both hands the Septa nodded. "We will, you be well Princess."

Outside the sun was much higher in the sky than the last time they'd seen it. "Not a bad way to start the morning eh?"

That was quite the understatement. "Not bad at all. Makes me wonder what's next?"

Arya shrugged. "I have no idea, let's go find out."

That was a tempting offer if Daenerys ever heard one. For the rest of the day, they didn't have any plans, they could do as much or as little as they pleased. There was no schedule, no obligations, just pure freedom. Not knowing what was in store for them was exhilarating. Having Arya to share it with multiplied those feelings tenfold. With so much unknown there was one thing the Princess was certain of – today was a day she wouldn't soon forget.

R-C

They wandered without a clear destination in mind. The streets were much busier now, so they added themselves to the sea of people and just went along with the tide. That suited Arya fine. When she was permitted to leave the Water Gardens she'd often roam without purpose, just to see where she'd eventually end up. Given how many years Daenerys had been caged in the castle, she could hardly fault her for wanting to get lost in a crowd.

As they turned down random streets, she kept a close eye on Daenerys's face. She was smiling. Arya was no expert, but her expression appeared content. The guard hoped she was, she deserved it.

They passed the sign in step with one another. She read the message hastily painted on a plank of wood and then disregarded it. Even if the sign was accurate and it was 'Harvest Time' that had nothing to do with her, she was no farmer.

Daenerys's squeal had her senses heightened. She reached her right arm across Daenerys's body to stop her from going further, while her left went for the grip on her sword. She studied her environment for dangers but found none. None approaching appeared interested in them, no one avoided meeting her eye when she stared. Best she could tell, she was the only one in her immediate area that was armed. If there wasn't a problem, why did Daenerys yell?

She kept her hand on her sword as she pivoted toward the Princess. "What's wrong?" she asked, keeping one eye on the background.

"Wrong," she repeated, "nothing's wrong. In fact, it just might be my lucky day."

The happiness in her voice reinforced what Arya's eyes were telling her, there really was no threat. She took a deep breath and tried to order her body to relax. The hand that was keeping Daenerys in place dropped and she shifted her dominant hand off her weapon, though it didn't go far.

Next to her Daenerys was oblivious to Arya's inner turmoil. She was up on the tips of her toes looking between the sign and the guard. Arya read the words a second time and still didn't understand. "You wish to go?" she guessed after a delay.

Daenerys squealed again, reaching for Arya's hand. "Can we?"

She shrugged. "There are plenty of farms, I'm sure one of them would welcome some extra help." As she said the words she wondered if the Princess was ill. Why would she, why would anyone want to labor on a farm during their first day of real freedom in Gods knew how long?

Daenerys's laugh was almost musical. The people who tired of waiting were beginning to walk around them. Some eyed them curiously, in an effort to comprehend why they suddenly stopped in the middle of the street. Arya empathized. She was wondering the same thing. "Not that kind of harvest. Do they not have Harvest Time in Dorne?"

"They do," Arya assured her, "I took you past several farms when we were there."

Daenerys inched closer. "I remember," she said looking up into Arya's eyes, "but this Harvest Time is different, it's a celebration."

Finally, things were beginning to clear up. "A celebration?"

She nodded with a widening smile. "I didn't know it was happening now, I'd given up asking to go." By the time she finished, she sounded sad for the first time since seeing the sign. Arya didn't like it.

The mystery of the shriek was solved. Arya also heard what Daenerys left unspoken. She wanted to go to this celebration, but was told 'no' probably by Aerys, Rhaegar or both. Well today they weren't in charge, today Daenerys got to choose. "Harvest Time?" she suggested.

Daenerys bit her lower lip as she hesitated. She studied the sign, then repeated her earlier question. "Can we?"

Arya chuckled, "Today Daenerys, we can do whatever the fuck we want."

Her arms raised like she was going to pull Arya in for one of her deceptively strong hugs, but she stopped short. Arya banished the disappointment she felt to the back of her mind. "We don't have to stay for long," Daenerys said quickly, actively working to temper her excitement. "I have always wanted to go but…"

For once, Arya initiated contact. She made the bold decision to take Daenerys's hand instead of just laying it on her wrist. As soon as she did, Daenerys laced their fingers together. "We can stay for as long as you'd like."

"You really wouldn't mind?"

She had no idea what Harvest Time would entail, but she'd survive. With a smirk on her lips she tried to set the Princess at ease. "I was going to take you to Harvest Time when I thought we'd spend the day in a field, I'm certainly not going to back out now that I know there will be drinking." She waited until Daenerys was smiling and then confirmed, "There will be drinking right?"

That was all it took – Daenerys was in her arms. "Thank you so much, none of this would be possible without you."

Arya was careful when she slid her arm around Daenerys, brushing her fingers against her back. "Thank Rhaegar, he agreed."

"I'll thank him too," Daenerys promised as they began moving again, "but he only said yes because you kept asking."

Unsure of what to say, Arya shifted the conversation to something she liked far more than praise. "So, drinks?"

Daenerys reclaimed her hand as soon as they separated, swinging it between them as they walked. "And games, and food, and dancing and music."

"Where is it? Will we need our horses?"

"It's not far, I don't think. We could get the horses, but I wouldn't mind walking."

Arya hoped the decision was made but Daenerys's inclination to seek approval was deeply engrained. As a pre-emptive strike Arya agreed, "A walk sounds nice."

R-C

Her day was going great. She and Arya left early enough to avoid seeing Tywin, Rhaegar or Aerys and her visit to the orphanage was a huge success. Now she was on her way to Harvest Time, something she'd given up hope she'd ever get to experience. That she was doing it with Arya only made her appreciate it more.

They walked in favor of horses and were passing the time by trading questions. They started out simple and meaningless, things like Daenerys's favorite color, or Arya's preferred style of armor. Before long, they were engaged in a deep discussion about real topics and Daenerys hung on Arya's every word. While she tried to keep the conversation going, she also desperately wanted to ask the right questions, inquires that would allow her to learn significant things about her companion.

Arya was finishing up a story in which Oberyn took all of his daughters and Arya hunting together. Daenerys laughed sincerely as she recounted the intense fight over who would hunt their dinner. The competition was so fierce Oberyn had to permit the older girls to hunt for themselves while he took the younger ones and taught them to track and kill a deer. No one starved that night, but insults were traded around the fire over the results. The bickering continued until Oberyn suggested the older girls spar to settle their differences. Naturally, they were eager and willing to settle their differences through combat.

Daenerys had seen the eldest three fight during their matches with Arya, so it wasn't difficult to imagine the scene being described. In addition to making her laugh and letting her feel closer to Arya, it also reinforced Oberyn's message from before they left Sunspear, he really did consider Arya to be one of his daughters. He wouldn't have included her in his father-daughter bonding trip if he didn't. She was reminded of the promise she made the Prince that day and looking to Arya, she silently made the same pledge a second time. She wouldn't let any harm come to her. Not because it would upset the Prince, but because it would destroy Daenerys. It would break her heart if something happened to Arya.

The next question pulled her from her thoughts. "If you had a ship and could leave and go anywhere, where would you go?"

She took a moment to imagine it. To be free to do as she pleased, to have a ship under her and the wind in her hair, it sounded glorious. She liked the Daenerys her mind conjured up far more than the one she was within the Red Keep's walls. "Everywhere," she said simply. "I'd want to take Missandei back to her homeland, so she could see it again. She has only vague memories of it now." A smirk curled her lip when she continued, "But we'd probably start in Dorne, my last guide told me there was still much I have yet to see."

Arya's expression mirrored Daenerys's and it had her heart speeding in her chest. "She sounds smart," Arya quipped, "you should probably listen."

"The smartest," Daenerys confirmed, before she bit back a laugh. "I'd be a fool not to heed her advice."

Daenerys liked this, it felt natural, being with Arya, talking with her, not as Princess and guard or Targaryen and Sand, but two friends who enjoy each other's company. They walked in a peaceful quiet for a few steps and then Daenerys realized it was her turn to ask something. Without consideration she took Arya's question and sent it back. "Where would you go?"

She was watching a bird, so she only saw Arya's pained expression briefly from the corner of her eye. "Home."

It had been the perfect day, so naturally Daenerys had to find a way to ruin it. How stupid did she have to be to ask Arya something like that? She hadn't wanted to come to King's Landing, she wanted to stay in Dorne. Her face felt redder than it ever had, and she welcomed the burn of the blush and the embarrassment that accompanied it. She'd truly earned both this time. "Arya," she said, as she stopped walking. They'd been holding hands since Arya agreed to take her to the celebration, but she feared that was at an end. "I'm sorry that was beyond rude and I don't really have an excuse other than to say I wasn't thinking, and I didn't mean to upset you. I know that is the poorest of poor excuses but it's true and I'm truly sorry."

She stopped walking when Daenerys did but that was the extent of her concessions. She didn't turn or speak, and Daenerys was beginning to worry she wasn't breathing. Her grey eyes stared off into space and seemed empty, leaving Daenerys to contemplate what she was thinking, feeling, remembering or reliving.

She had such high expectations for the day and now she'd gone and caused pain to the last person she wanted to hurt. Why couldn't she behave normally, just once? Was it her Targaryen blood that poisoned every good thing in her life or was she just defective?

When the silence ended, it wasn't with a violent jerk to free her hand or harsh, angry words. Unshed tears were welled up in Arya's gorgeous eyes and she smiled ever so slightly when she said, "If I had a home left, or a family, I'd go there."

Given that she started all this with her thoughtless, ignorant question it was plausible if not likely that Arya wouldn't want to be close to her, but she couldn't help herself. She wrapped Arya in an embrace. It was awkward and strained, though Arya didn't complain. "I'm sorry Arya," she whispered. As the hug progressed with no sign of stopping Daenerys wound her free arm around Arya's neck. In response the taller, stronger, tougher woman brought Daenerys even closer. "Maybe you can," she said after a prolonged quiet. "If you want to go back, to see it again, I'm sure we could."

She hadn't meant to include herself in that, but like her stupid question, it was out before she could catch it and impossible to take back. Correcting herself now would only draw attention to her original statement. That, she decided, was worse than leaving it as it was. Besides Arya's focus was on other things, she probably didn't even notice.

Time stood still as they did, just holding one another. Arya stepped back first, putting a very distinct space between them.

She cleared her throat and looked away as Arya wiped under her eyes subtly. "That was careless of me and I'm sorry," she said, hoping to convey the depths of her regret.

"You did nothing wrong Daenerys," Arya countered, fussing with the frayed edge of her cloak. "You asked a question, I answered it and then I started blubbering."

She didn't really want to do this, get into an argument over who was at fault. Daenerys knew it was her. She should have been more considerate. "We can go if you no longer feel like attending a celebration," she allowed. She'd be disappointed to miss it again but another year without getting to go seemed like a minimal price for her rudeness.

"What? No! We aren't leaving, I was promised drinks." She sounded better, but Daenerys recognized a fake display of happiness when she heard one.

"You don't have to," she insisted. "I wouldn't blame you if I was the last person you wanted to spend your day with right now. We can return to the castle and I'll ask Jorah to serve as my guard for the remainder of the day, longer if you need more time."

How had she let everything get so fucked up? After the night before and their near-kiss she had hoped the day would provide more opportunities for she and Arya to get closer, but she'd wrecked it before it began by being selfish and thoughtless. How many times had she thought herself better than Viserys, how many times had she looked down on him for the things he said and did? Too many to count surely and here she was behaving in a way he'd be proud of. It turned her stomach.

She was preparing for all the negative responses she might get, so she was knocked off balance by the positive one. Arya reached for and took her hand, returning their fingers to the positions they'd been in before her question. "It's fine, I'm fine, I am just not used to talking about them. It's been a very long time since someone asked."

"I shouldn't have…"

"If you didn't, I probably wouldn't have spoken about them to anyone for the remainder of the year." She was more like herself when she stood a little straighter and said, "Pretending they don't exist isn't honoring their memories or appreciating their sacrifices."

Wow! Arya was constantly giving her reasons to be impressed. It began when she beat the bigger man in the dining hall, when she defied the King and refused his order to kill, when she grabbed Viserys's arm to keep it from hitting her, those were just some of the many examples she had. Now there was one more. She stood there idiotically, marvelling at the strength in front of her. It was beyond beautiful. She had so many questions. She knew very little about what happened to Arya's family, except to say they were gone. She knew Doran took her into his service at a young age and that she worked as a servant in the Water Gardens before training to become a soldier, but most of the details were missing. She really wanted to know, feeling in her bones that learning about Arya's past would fill in many of the largest pieces of the puzzle, but she couldn't ask, wouldn't ask. If Arya ever told her about her family, she wanted it to be because Arya chose to let Daenerys know.

She selected her words carefully, practicing in her mind first before setting them loose. "I think they'd be happy to know you're thinking about them," she said slowly, watching for any hint that her words were doing more harm than good. "Should the day come that you want to talk to someone about them, I'll be here."

"Thank you."

She should have left it alone, but it upset her to think Arya didn't really have anyone to share her burdens with. Daenerys could relate to that. Before Missandei, she'd been alone too. "It's no one's business but yours Arya. You don't have to tell me or anyone else unless you want to, but if you do, I'll listen."

She cursed herself for not shutting up when she had the chance. The long seconds before Arya's reply were painful. When it finally came it was the same two words, the same tone, the same sincerity. Daenerys breathed a sigh of relief. "What now?"

Arya's attractive face provided a fraction of a smirk as warning before she said, "I believe it's Harvest Time Princess."

Daenerys chuckled and felt lighter. As Arya dragged her toward their destination Daenerys said a silent prayer of thanks to whatever God was watching over her. She'd made a stupid, careless mistake and somehow, she and Arya were still alright. The Targaryen had never felt quite so lucky.

R-C

Not for the first time Daenerys found herself wishing she lived a different life, one with more friends, more experiences, more normalcy. She wasn't asking for a lot, just enough to know how to help Arya now.

It was clear that her guard opening up about her family was significant and traumatic. She wanted to ease her discomfort but didn't know how. She had little practice reassuring someone she cared about and even less consoling them, regardless of how badly she wanted to. She stayed silent, too frightened of saying the wrong thing, to say anything at all.

They added themselves to the masses and approached the border of the celebration. Daenerys wondered if she should change the plan. Would Arya prefer to go back to the castle? She probably didn't feel like spending the next several hours in a festival. Even though she said it was fine, it didn't feel that way to the Princess. It was a mercy that Arya didn't hold a grudge, but Daenerys wasn't quite ready to forgive herself. She had always wanted to attend Harvest Time, but for once it couldn't be about her. She needed to put Arya first, to show her that she was cared for.

Admittedly Daenerys didn't have the best relationship with the majority of her family. Her father was distant and dismissive, Viserys was cruel and cold, she had no memories of her mother and it wasn't uncommon for her to catch Rhaegar only pretending to listen when she spoke. She knew he loved her, so she was quick to forgive, but it hurt nonetheless. The Targaryen heir had a habit of getting lost in his thoughts, distracted by something he refused to share, whether it was the future, the present or the past, she didn't know. Honestly, Aemon was the only one she didn't need to make allowances for. He was kind, friendly, and treated her well. Their bond was real and the older she got, the more important her nephew became to her. Over time she developed a keen appreciation for their relationship, aware it was unlike any other in her life.

Her family wasn't the easiest group to like but Daenerys did love them, and she was grateful to have them. She couldn't imagine how hard it had been for Arya, to lose all of her family, to have no choice but to grow up alone. She wanted her to know that she wasn't on her own anymore. She had Daenerys and she could trust her. If that meant she had to skip Harvest Time for another year, or forever, then so be it.

"We don't have to stay," she said without a preamble. She didn't bother working her way to the larger point, she just threw It out there like a fool.

They were passing the first booths, one selling fruit and the other wine. Arya turned to the Princess, confused. "What? Why? I thought you wanted to come here."

"I did," she admitted, deciding the truth was best, "but it's not really important." She was done, until she saw Arya's thin lips part as she prepared to respond. "After everything, if you wanted to go somewhere else, do something else, or go back to the keep even, I'd understand."

When she understood Daenerys's reasons Arya appeared more troubled instead of less. "No," she ruled, "I told you I'm fine and we're already here."

Daenerys fully intended to make another argument, but the words died on her tongue when Arya marched ahead, leaving Daenerys to chase after her. Her heart was pounding but she didn't think it was from the exertion or the speed. Apparently. Arya decided they might as well spend at least a few minutes at the festival.

R-C

What was wrong with her? What was she thinking, bringing up her family in a casual conversation, and with Daenerys of all people? It was rare she discussed her former life with anyone. When it did happen, it was exclusively Oberyn she confided in.

Now she was trying to prove she was fine, steering Daenerys along with the flows of people, past the food vendors and the merchants selling trinkets, toward the games, just waiting for something to catch her interest in the hopes it'd keep her brain from dwelling on the past.

What would her father say if he could see her now? He'd be ashamed of her most likely. She had befriended a Targaryen and was opening up to her. She immediately rushed to Daenerys's defense, even if only in the privacy of her mind. She arranged her thoughts into the arguments she would make, if she could actually see and speak to her father again. She'd try and make him understand what she did, that Daenerys was special. She wasn't Aerys and she wasn't Rhaegar, she cared about people, she cared about Arya. Wasn't that what truly mattered? Wasn't that more important than Daenerys's relation to the Mad King and his raper son?

Still in the process of coming to terms with her conflicted feelings, Arya was barely paying attention to the world around her, at least until Daenerys began veering to the left. She gave her head a violent shake to try and clear it. Arya loved her father and she always would, but he was gone, while she was left behind. She couldn't live for him, the best she could do was to try and honor his memory while building a happy life for herself. It would probably upset Ned Stark to learn his daughter was friends with the Dragon Princess, but now was not the time to obsess over it. She could do battle with her father's disappointment later, when she was alone. For now, she owed it to Daenerys to try and give her the best day possible, especially since she didn't know when or if they'd be permitted to leave the Red Keep again.

She forced her attention to the present and took note of the nearby merriment. The first thing she recognized was a boar roasting on a spit. "Hungry?" she asked her companion, hoping to restart their conversation and push Arya's moment of weakness to a forgotten, distant memory.

R-C

She declined when it was suggested they leave. She said she was fine, but Daenerys knew better than to believe that. She felt she understood her guard fairly well and she knew that 'fine' was what Arya said when she wanted to deflect from how she was really feeling. Hearing that Arya was fine was the fastest way to convince Daenerys the opposite was closer to the truth.

For a very long five minutes, as they strolled through Harvest Time, neither woman said anything. As the silence persisted, so did Daenerys's concern. She was trying to choose the best way to broach the subject of leaving when Arya looked at her with eyes of melting steel and asked if she was hungry. She wasn't, food was the last thing on her mind, but if Arya wanted to eat, then they would. "Sure, but you'll have to share with me."

"Agreed," Arya said, gifting Daenerys with a smile. It was tense and gone almost immediately but Daenerys saw it and knew Arya was trying.

She smiled back at her friend, holding the gesture for much longer than Arya did. "Alright then, what are we having? Everything smells so good." It was a slight exaggeration maybe, but not an outright lie. It did smell good and she could probably take a bite or two before leaving the rest for Arya. She was making an effort, so Daenerys could too.

R-C

By the time she threw away the paper wrapping from their snack, things were much more natural. She'd successfully contained her feelings and the tension from her unguarded admissions about her family was beginning to dull. The embarrassment she felt exposing her secrets to Daenerys would take longer to forget, but she hoped that alone wouldn't taint their day.

When she heard a loud voice calling out to her over all the others, Arya saw another opportunity to correct her earlier mistake. "Games!" a man yelled. She slowed her steps slightly and waited to see if she could interest Daenerys in a little sport.

"Games," the man yelled again, "win gold and prizes!" Standing several feet closer this time, in the center of a large crowd she noticed Daenerys lifting up onto her toes, as she tried to peek over all those who were taller.

Arya smirked. She wouldn't have guessed that Daenerys would be interested in childish games for cheap prizes but at least she wasn't trying to get them to leave anymore. Even if Arya didn't have plenty of practice overcoming her past, the last place she'd want to go today was the Red Keep, especially given what she knew was happening there. So far, she'd managed to avoid the King and his madness, but Arya knew better than to tempt fate too directly. "Want to play a game?"

"What game?" she asked, following Arya's eyeline to find the right one. She doubted the Princess could see with so many people obstructing her view.

"Want me to give you a boost?" Arya teased without bothering to hide her amusement.

She slapped her guard in the arm but couldn't maintain her disgruntled pose. In short order a smile broke through. "Don't you dare, it's bad enough I get confused for a child, I don't need you drawing attention to it."

She was prepared for more jokes, but Arya's stare turned intense instead and her tone shifted to something deathly serious. "You may be short, but no one would mistake you for a child."

R-C

Her blood heated more than usual in response to the unexpected compliment. She looked away from Arya's face and studied the dirt under her feet. Before she recovered enough to reply, Arya had her hand in hers again and they were going.

Where they'd end up or why was insignificant. All Daenerys could focus on was Arya's comment. Did she mean that in the way Daenerys hoped she did? She wanted to think Arya meant she was all women despite her height, but maybe that was just wishful thinking. She was attracted to Arya and it wouldn't be beyond her to read into every word to find proof that Arya felt the same way.

Arya cut through the crowds easily, using a glare, a polite 'excuse us' or in one instance a hard shove to clear space for her and Daenerys to slip by.

When they stopped, they were in front of a stall where a lone middle-aged man worked.

The game was set up in such a way it reminded Daenerys of an alley. A wooden plank that served as a counter prevented the participants from getting too close. At the other end of was a purposefully arranged pyramid of bottles. It didn't take a scholar to realize the point of the game.

Arya said nothing as she produced a few coins and laid them out. The man swept them off the wood and tucked them away before he bent down and picked up three leather balls. They were small but hard-looking. He set them in front of Arya and nodded to the bottles.

When the guard picked up the first ball and tested its weight by throwing it into her air and catching it, Daenerys took half a step back to provide her more room. She'd never seen Arya throw anything, but she didn't think the bottles stood a chance.

"Knock down five or more and you get a prize," the man told her. "Knock down all the bottles and you get to pick from our special items and claim a bonus paid in gold dragons."

Arya nodded to confirm she understood and then just when Daenerys thought she'd finally release a toss, she turned, extending her arm and the ball to Daenerys. "Five bottles, think you can do it?"

Wait! Was she serious? Arya wanted her to throw? "Um…"

She moved closer and physically placed the ball in Daenerys's palm. "I think you can do it."

"Are you sure?" She glanced at the bottles and then back at her friend. "Arya, I've never…"

"Just try," she encouraged, coming closer and lowering her voice so they could speak privately. "We didn't come over here so I could throw a ball, I've done it before."

Her anxiety was temporarily dwarfed by the sweetness of the moment. She knew now why they were doing this, it was so Daenerys could try something she'd never been allowed to before. She wanted to thank her, but before she could, Arya gave her a gentle push toward the counter. "Go on, you can do it."

She had her doubts but regardless of success or failure, she wanted to try. She did her best to recall all the times she'd seen items being thrown about, trying to break down the act into something she could emulate. When she was confident in her approach, she pulled her arm back and tried to launch the ball with as much power as possible.

Pride was her primary emotion as she released the ball and watched it arc toward the bottles. What had started with so much promise faded rapidly as the ball dropped abruptly less than foot in front of the pyramid. There was snickering coming from both sides. She ignored the man running the game, choosing instead to face Arya and apologize for wasting her money. Her apology died on the vine, because Arya wasn't the one laughing at her, it must have been someone else, further back. The guilty party was likely the man Arya was glaring daggers at.

She noticed Daenerys looking at her and stepped up. "That wasn't bad for a first shot," she lied.

"You don't have to say that, Arya."

"Try again, you've still got two more," she reminded the dejected Princess.

"I can't do it," she acknowledged, wishing she had her earlier confidence back.

"You can," Arya disagreed. "Use your whole body this time, not just your arm."

"What?" she couldn't help but ask. How could she throw with anything more than her arm?

"I'll show you." Together they walked up to the counter and Arya handed her the second ball. Once she had it. Arya slipped in behind her. She shivered when she felt Arya's body against her back. The sensation of Arya's rough hands on her hips, altering her stance, had her biting down on her lip to keep from saying or doing something inappropriate. It was easier to think without Arya touching her, but Daenerys wouldn't complain no matter how long they stayed. A foggy brain seemed like a fair price for having Arya so close. "Show me how you'd throw," Arya directed.

Daenerys pulled her arm back as she'd done the last time and Arya reached out to correct the motion. Before she could the man objected. "No, no help, she has to do it on her own or not at all."

Daenerys planned to obey but Arya wasn't as repentant. "Shut your mouth!" she demanded.

"My game, my rules. You paid for three balls and one thrower."

With a sigh Arya retrieved more coins from her purse and set them down. "Happy now?" she asked him sarcastically.

Daenerys was stunned. "Arya don't," she hissed, "it's not worth wasting all your money."

She shook her head, dismissing Daenerys's point and then returning her attention to the bottles. "Okay, this time I'll guide your arm, you just hang on to the ball and then let it go when your arm's coming forward, okay?"

"Okay." She fixed Daenerys's posture and then guided her arm through the act of throwing. She released the ball just an instant late, too distracted by Arya to remember her one job within their conspiracy.

Her delay aside the ball soared through the air with real velocity this time. Daenerys watched it, mesmerised, unable to comprehend how that could have come from her. There was a clanging when the ball hit the bottles, knocking several of them out of their original positions. In the end only one fell off the table and qualified as a hit. The man running things probably thought she was mad when she squealed in excitement and dove onto Arya for a hug. "I did it!"

"You did," Arya confirmed squeezing her, "and that is how you throw with your whole body."

She'd forgotten about her third ball until Arya retreated and retrieved it for her. Surprised that Arya didn't fall into place behind her, she looked further back. "You aren't going to…"

"You don't need me, you can do it."

She didn't think so. She'd only knocked down one bottle so far. She'd need four more on her last throw to win. "Any advice?"

"Aim for the bottom row," Arya advised. "If you knock out those ones, all the bottles above them will fall too."

Of course! Why hadn't she thought of that? She took a moment to try and select the most vulnerable bottles, lining herself up to strike there. She closed her eyes and pretended Arya was behind her again, adjusting herself as Arya might. Then she opened her eyes and threw the last ball with all the strength she had.

She held her breath until the ball hit the exact bottle she was aiming for. It was a little higher than she intended, but a hit was a hit. She watched as the bottle was pushed clear off the table, causing the whole pyramid to crumble. As it fell, Daenerys waited to see how many additional bottles might spill over. Before she could, Arya was there with another hug and more heartfelt congratulations. "I knew you could do it!"

They parted when the game-master yelled her results from the other end. "Four knocked down!"

She was a little disappointed to have gotten so close, but it didn't erase the smile on her face or the memory of Arya holding her. Even if she didn't get a prize, it was still wonderful.

"Thank you, Arya," she said, watching from the corner of her eye as the man reset the bottles. "That was great."

"I'm glad you liked it. Worth the wait?"

"Definitely!" She couldn't believe she'd never played such a simple game before. "It was exciting."

They didn't go back the way they came, rather Arya stepped up to the counter and laid out the coins for another try.

"What are you doing?" Daenerys whispered as she hurried to the counter and tried to cover the coins with her hand before the greedy man could see them.

"I think you'll win this time," Arya explained.

"No, Arya that's madness, I wanted to try, and I did, but you'll go poor if you keep paying until I win."

"I don't think so," she disagreed, "you got four bottles down in only two throws last time. You'll keep getting better."

The man was back, and the bottles were ready. He gathered his money, working around Daenerys's fingers without comment. "Who's throwing?" he asked them.

Arya looked to Daenerys. "She is."

The ass snickered again, louder and more openly then after her first throw. "Whatever you say, it's your gold."

Since they arrived Daenerys had appreciated the fact that no one recognized her. None of these people were the sort to frequent the Red Keep, and because she was often confined, there wasn't a lot of opportunities for common folk to meet her. She was tempted to tell him who she was, just to wipe the smirk off his face, but she knew that was a bell she couldn't unring. Once word spread that Daenerys Targaryen was at Harvest Time, they'd need to leave to avoid being swarmed.

Arya turned her, gripping her upper arms while staring straight into violet eyes. "Don't listen to him," she said, making no effort to control her volume. "He's a fool who thinks what he's got between his legs makes him better than you. Prove him wrong."

Not only did she agree with Arya's assessment of the man, there was something empowering about hearing Arya say it so plainly, loud enough to be overheard by the smug idiot. She wanted nothing more right then than to fulfill Arya's instructions and win a prize to put a permanent end to his arrogant remarks.

When she was ready to accept the first ball she noticed that the man wasn't looking at her, or his game, he was watching Arya with poorly concealed rage.

Building on the lessons she received from Arya, Daenerys's first throw went for the base of pyramid. She knocked over a large section of the structure, but only one bottle was struck with enough force to leave the table.

Her second throw was better. With so many already close to the edge Daenerys's ball knocked three bottles onto the ground beside the first.

Before her third throw, Arya was there with reassurance. "One throw, one bottle left,"

Although she knew the score, having Arya accurately state the situation did nothing to calm her nerves. "I'm sorry in advance for all the money you spent." She was trying to lighten the mood while secretly hoping to prepare Arya for disappointment in the event she failed.

The guard wasn't having it. "Stop. You are a warrior, a Dragon, you can do this, you will do this." When she didn't look properly motivated, Arya pressed on. "Close your eyes, imagine that prick having to let you choose a prize, imagine him forced to congratulate you on your victory, do you want that?"

"Yes," she confessed quietly. She'd never won anything before, not really. Everything she had was given to her because she was a Targaryen or a Princess. This was different. If she won this game, it'd be because she succeeded using the same rules as everyone else. She knew if she could somehow manage to knock one more bottle off the table, she'd have a real accomplishment, perhaps her first.

She took an extra few seconds, once again deciding the most opportune place to aim. Then she needed a moment to calm her heart. When she was as relaxed as was likely, she threw the ball as hard as she could.

While it was still in the air Arya was already clapping and cheering, as if she knew what the outcome would be. Daenerys held her breath and chanted, "Please, please, please" inside her head as the ball made contact. She was no expert, but it seemed her last throw was her best. It was by far the most natural she felt since she began.

When not one, but three more bottles fell from the table Daenerys couldn't believe her eyes. She turned to Arya for confirmation and Dorinshwoman hugged her again, bathing her in more praise and affection. Her smile was so wide her cheeks hurt and yet she was struck by how right it was, being in Arya's arms. She could get used to this. After she'd sufficiently complimented Daenerys's bottle-knocking abilities, Arya's demeanor changed. "Told you so," she teased, making Daenerys laugh.

She really had. Not only had she paid for Daenerys to play the game more than once, she provided the help and support needed to ensure success. Awash with pride and countless other positive feelings, she remembered that without Arya she wouldn't have any of this.

R-C

"We have a winner," the man running the game announced without enthusiasm.

Arya stayed back and enjoyed the way he had to bring his chest of prizes to Daenerys and make them available to her. They were junk really, certainly nothing befitting a Princess, but if the look on Daenerys's face was any indication, she didn't care.

As she searched for a suitable reward, Arya was more than a little curious about what she'd choose. She moved closer so she could peek over Daenerys's shoulder and see.

She picked up a few items to admire them in the light before setting them back where she found them. Not surprisingly there was a large amount of poorly made, dragon items. She guessed the prizes were either crafted or purchased before each stop, to ensure they had enough Golden Suns when in Sunspear, enough Roses in the Reach or in this case enough Dragons in the Crownlands.

She didn't think Daenerys would choose anything with a dragon on it, especially since she had no shortage of dragon pendants, dragon bracelets, dragon chains, dragon pins, and pretty much dragon everything else back at the keep.

When she finally selected something, it was one of the simpler pieces. A thin square of copper with a flying dragon stamped on it. "I'll take this one," she said, cradling it carefully in her hands so not to damage it.

It annoyed her that Daenerys had chosen the last thing Arya would have predicted. Just when she thought she was getting better at understanding her. She couldn't resist asking, "Don't have enough dragons at home Princess?"

The last word caught the man's attention. "Pr…Princess?" he stammered weakly. He looked at the silver haired woman with new eyes and came to a very different conclusion about the kind of woman she was. "By the Gods, you're…" As he spoke, he was looking around, probably for a member of the Kingsguard or some other clue that would confirm his suspicions.

Daenerys gave him a tight smile but didn't say anything.

"Ready to go?" Arya wondered.

Daenerys nodded, reverting back to the meek young woman she became when faced with an authority figure.

"Oh Princess, no, you can't take such a prize. Allow me to show you our special stock, I'm sure you'll find something there more to your liking." The man was struggling to repair Daenerys's opinion of him. Arya didn't think it would work, but she'd been wrong before.

"No, I don't want anything I didn't earn. Thank you, Ser," she said formally, "have a fine day."

He wasn't prepared to let her go. "Please Princess," he said, sounding almost frantic, "please tell the King how pleased we are that he allowed his daughter to visit us here. Thank you for gracing my humble game with your presence and I'll tell others of your victory."

Arya wanted to roll her eyes. He was trying too hard. When she was just a common woman who thought herself capable of trying his game, she wasn't deserving of his time or courtesy. Now that her father was the Mad King, he was desperately trying to leave her with a favorable impression.

"Time to go," Daenerys whispered. Arya couldn't argue with that. She could feel the stares and hear the whispers. Word was already spreading that Daenerys was near.

R-C

Author's Note: Another chapter finished. It had a lot, watching the sunrise, feeding some orphans, a little bump in the road when Daenerys stuck her foot in her mouth and couldn't forgive herself, and then finally her success toppling a pyramid of bottles. I liked it, but I'm curious what everyone else thinks.

I hope this lived up to the expectations. I know people have been waiting to see Daenerys and Arya explore the city together for a while. A little more next time, before they're back to the keep.

I'll see you all then.

RC