Dear Muña,
I fear I have gone mad. He has corrupted
my mind in the most inexplicable of ways.
The heat alone is enough to throw me,
but I would have never wagered myself
agreeing to such an unnerving dare.
And it is far too late to turn back now.

He said he would order the head bowman
to delay the archers in training so that
I could take to their line on the morrow.
Perhaps I should have admitted to my bluff?
Tis enough to know the yard is aware
of our time together, after he so boldly
acknowledged me in front of them.

But now I am expected to waltz into
the space, unlike any noble lady before me,
and train amongst the lot of them?
What is he doing to me?

Elaena sighed to her diary, feeling her mind unravel at the thought of practicing in the morning.

She had not wanted to give Aemond the satisfaction of her poor confidence, but the thrill of standing on her decision to go had died the moment she'd parted from him.

Perhaps I should consult Helaena tonight?
Perhaps she could see if it is a good idea,
if I will undoubtedly make a fool of myself
before the yard men and her mind boggling
younger brother?

"My lady?"

Elaena turned sharply at the sound of Sylvia's voice. Her mind went blank in attention, but she refrained from showing her surprise to keep from overwhelming the girl.

Sylvia folded her hands together, her hazel gaze flickering about in hesitation.

"Lady Sam..." She said lowly, and Elaena's eyebrows raised, "She... S-She has come to see you."

Elaena's lip curled at the news, "Thank you, Sylvia, please let her in."

Sylvia nodded in a docile way before turning back to the chamber door—missing the look of pride on Elaena's face for her.

Samantha entered the room with a halfhearted smile. When she saw Elaena seated at the parlor desk, she let out a heavy sigh.

"I needed to catch a breath before the supper tonight," She sneered, moving to plop down on Elaena's couch, "I'll have to ask the princess to maintain our normal schedule—too long a window before our meetings gives these men too much time to disturb me."

Elaena furrowed her eyebrows in concern, and she shut her diary before turning in her seat, "However do you mean?"

"Two lords and a knight, Lady Elaena," Samantha scoffed, lifting her head from the armrest to look at Elaena, "My hand has been asked by two lords and a knight in less than half a day."

Elaena's eyes widened, "Oh, how wonderful—"

"Is it?" Samantha shot, "Because I am sick of this—the prodding, the shameless innuendos, the expectation that I must accept them."

Elaena's gaze flickered to Sylvia's lingering figure, and the two of them looked at one another in shock.

"None of them, not one, is worthy of such attention," The Tarly girl went on with a scowl, "Witless as a bales of hay with appearances just as bland—and if they expect my beauty to uplift their offspring, they overestimate my capabilities."

Elaena couldn't help the humored smile on her face as the lady ranted.

"Oh, are those honey cakes over there?" She sighed and nodded to the parlor's pastry table, "All of this be-foolery has left me wanting to nosh."

Elaena chuckled lowly, "Have at them, they're far too sweet for me."

"Blessings." Samantha sighed before shooting up to load a platter.

"You seem highly averse to the men of the Keep." Elaena noted, and Samantha hummed through of bite of cake.

"What gave you that idea?" She jested with a smirk, and Elaena snorted.

"There wouldn't happen to be a man back in Horn Hill keeping your mind away, would there?"

Samantha's expression wrinkled, and she shook her head as she returned to Elaena's couch.

"No, tis nothing of the sort," She sighed, "I simply wish to view men as they do us. Disposable."

Elaena's expression faltered as Sam shrugged. Her lilac eyes floated to the portrait hanging on her wall, and her heart skipped at her mother's gaze.

"No amount of time in a marriage can prevent such belief," Sam continued, "We are young and supple at first, we sacrifice our minds and bodies—sometimes our lives to have their children, and then we grow old... And they have the freedom to seek yet another young and supple lamb to replace us."

Elaena swallowed stiffly as Ophelia stared back at her, almost affirming Samantha's words.

"I shall take no man's word for truth," She said, "They don't know the meaning of the word, nor do they care for it lest it warms their pockets or their cocks."

Elaena looked back at Samantha with wide eyes. When she was met with a nonchalant gaze, she looked to Sylvia. The handmaiden was stiff in discomfort, and her gaze stayed low as her hands clasped together.

"I suppose you have a point." Elaena said lowly, and Samantha's cold expression softened.

"How are you faring?" She asked genuinely, "I do hope they haven't pestered you so."

Elaena's mind immediately flickered to Aemond, though she couldn't describe her thoughts as opposed to him. Her cheeks flushed in her silence, and she swallowed subtly at the thought of his invitation.

"I wouldn't put it like that..." She said, idling on elaboration. But Samantha's eyebrows furrowed, and she leaned towards the Velaryon girl.

"Is it that boy you went to meet?" She asked immediately, and Elaena's eyes widened, "You've neglected to share the details with me and Saera, have you met with him since?"

Elaena blinked in apprehension.

Say no. Don't expose yourself, don't trust her. Say no...

Even though word should very well spread outside the training yard. He called you out, told you to wait for him—Shit.

"Oh, you must tell me," Samantha jested, a grin etching on to her face as she ate another cake square, "You've a blush on your face that will shame the Maiden."

The people will find out, you know they will—if they haven't already.

"Your silence is not helping your cause, my lady," Sam chuckled, "What happened? Is it the same boy?"

She's not Helaena...

But she's not the other ladies either. . .

Elaena hesitantly nodded, and her heart stuttered when Sam's eyes widened in excitement.

"Give it up, then," Samantha clapped, taking her seat at the edge of the couch, "Who is he?"

Well. . . here we go.

Elaena sighed as she looked to Sylvia. The handmaiden leaned in slightly, quietly mirroring Samantha's anticipation.

"Is the door truly shut?"

• • •

Samantha practically snatched Saera out of her chambers to join them on their way to the princess's apartments. Elaena supposed she should have known her tellings wouldn't end with the Tarly girl, but she prayed they would after Saera.

They were the only two she felt she could trust besides Helaena.

After ushering them in to sit at her supper table, the princess returned to her room to finish readying herself. Elaena was anxious without her friend's presence, but she stifled to bond with her new ones.

They waited there, having been earlier than expected as Samantha wished for more peace and discretion from the snobs.

She looked to Elaena for permission to explode, and the Velaryon girl gave her the nod.

Saera's expression morphed between concern, confusion, and shock as Samantha regaled it all. Elaena could tell the Tarly girl was satisfied with the Stark's reactions, and she sank further into anxiety. She'd truly done it now.

Saera leaned past Samantha to gape at Elaena.

"The training yard?" She whispered in shock, and Elaena nodded with flushed cheeks. Saera's lips parted in awe.

"Sylvia can proudly attest to Lady Elaena's marksmanship," Samantha nodded as she whispered, "Apparently she's full of surprises. I was hoping you would help me encourage her to actually go?"

"What do you mean?" Saera said with furrowed eyebrows, "Are you thinking of standing up the prince?"

Elaena sighed, "Of course not. I've no choice after agreeing, nerves or no."

"She feels shy at the thought of so much attention." Samantha explained.

"I don't see why she would be so bashful," Saera shrugged, her tone pointed at Elaena, "Seeing as she's been meeting with the prince daily in that library of hers."

"And not a peep to either of us," Samantha said, shaking her head with pursed lips, "And I thought us friends."

"You both realize I am just here." Elaena whispered quickly in a blank stare.

"Do you hear something, Lady Saera?" Samantha said, keeping her gaze away from Elaena.

"Must have been the wind." Saera nodded, looking about the empty table blankly.

Elaena felt a nagging itch from their dismissive tones. Did they dislike her now, knowing she had been consorting so closely to the prince? That she'd been hiding it?

Why did she always have to ruin everything? Why couldn't she do anything right? She shouldn't have said anything...

She sighed to herself while eyeing Helaena's empty seat, and then Samantha nudged her with an elbow.

"I'm jesting with you," Samantha mumbled with humored smirk, "Though it is quite impressive how you managed to keep quiet about such a feat."

Elaena blushed as she met the Tarly girl's gaze, and Saera leaned over to acknowledge her as well. Their expressions were light, and Elaena swallowed stiffly at her racing heart.

"What feat?" She mumbled, "I've only discussed fantasy novels with him."

"You underestimate how extraordinary that is for a man his age." Samantha snorted, "Regardless your little meetings were bound to come out eventually. Better it start with us than any of these other snobs."

"Agreed," Saera nodded sweetly to Elaena, "I don't particularly envy your position, but I'll have you know you have open ears and abled minds should you need them."

"And you will," Samantha mumbled as more voices neared the table, "You are truly in the war now."

Elaena swallowed stiffly, and she turned to see the ladies in question enter the room.

Ellyn Baratheon snickered with Hyaline Tyrell, and for a moment Elaena wondered what Hyaline had done to make the cold Baratheon girl seem so at ease. Behind them, Cerelle Lannister and Cristine Celtigar walked in arm-in-arm, clearly growing closer in their stay.

On the surface, they all seemed effortless ladies, beautifully elegant and kind hearted. But Elaena couldn't ignore the blank stares she'd received from them, the side eyes, the condescending remarks.

She hadn't cared about their dispositions before, when she hadn't disclosed her time with Aemond, but now...

You'd be a fool to believe they would care about you. Look at them. Such beauties wouldn't think twice about you.

Elaena peaked up at Cristine, eyeing her silver-gold curls as they bounced from her chipper movements. She swallowed before dropping her gaze.

You're little competition indeed—And what does it matter? This isn't a race you could join, even if you wished to.

Time is almost up. Stay focused. Do not get comfortable—

"Welcome, my ladies," Helaena's sweet voice announced as she appeared from her bedchamber, "It is a joy to see you all."

"Always a pleasure, your Grace." Samantha smirked, nodding with her goblet raised.

"I do apologize for the strange... pivot this morning." Helaena said, swallowing subtly and immediately alarming Elaena, "But I assure you I've requested the best courses for the night."

"We are most grateful, princess." Cristine cheesed, and the ladies hummed in agreement.

But Elaena watched her friend softly. Something was wrong, she could feel it.

Helaena breathed a sigh of relief before taking her seat and waving to the posted maids. The table settled as dishes were sat down, and Helaena's bright expression faltered as she met Elaena's gaze.

The princess sighed, this time in reluctance, before checking the table to see all the ladies engrossed with the coming platters. And then she hesitantly leaned towards Elaena, who immediately leaned in return.

"Ziry māstan naejot nyke bisa ñāqatubis." The princess whispered, her expression fidgeting as she picked at her nails under the table.
(He came to me this morning)

Elaena's heart stuttered as her eyes widened, "Bisa ñāqatubis?" She whispered back quickly.
(This morning?)

Helaena nodded softly, eyeing the table again to ensure no one noticed them. Elaena felt her heart drop. Aegon was only supposed to exist at night...

"Issi ao sȳz?" She asked, reaching under the table to grasp Helaena's hand.
(Are you alright?)

The princess's lip curled as she grasped Elaena's hand back.

"Kessa." She mouthed, but her glassy eyes told Elaena different.
(Yes)

She wanted to ask if Aegon had hurt Helaena, if he'd scared her at all in his sudden appearance. The thought alone brought a wave of venom to Elaena's tongue.

But before she could inquire further, Hyaline's pristine voice cut through the room.

"Am I to understand you are a lover of Highgarden cuisine, Princess Helaena?" She asked, and Elaena and the princess sat up at attention, "I'd recognize these platters anywhere."

Helaena blinked timidly before she nodded.

"Y-Yes," She said, forcing a kind smile, "The sweets are my favorite to be exact."

"I would have never guessed." Hyaline laughed, her blue eyes flickering between Helaena and Elaena, "I'm sure the Reach will be pleased to hear such news."

"Seven hells." Samantha mumbled into her goblet, and Elaena looked to see her roll her eyes. Hyaline missed the comment and continued to beam at Helaena.

"I'd be more than happy to call on our most exquisite dishes for you," She chirped, "And should my stay become a permanent one, I can assure you will never long for them."

Helaena's smile softened as she nodded to the Tyrell girl, "A dream, indeed."

"Any luck with prolonging that stay, Hyaline?" Samantha asked, gaining the table's attention. Hyaline eyed the Tarly girl in subtle apprehension, unable to decipher her tone as Samantha smiled softly at her.

"All in good time, Lady Samantha," She said quickly, her smile stiffening, "Spring hasn't even kissed the city yet."

"That doesn't keep these lords from pestering me," Samantha snorted before turning to Saera, "And you, Lady Saera?"

"I had thought the men of the Keep were getting a head start." The Stark girl said, blush coating her cheeks as she nodded along with Samantha.

"There are still the incoming lords for the festivities of Spring," Ellyn said lowly, glaring at Samantha and Saera, "Forgive us for not turning to the first suitors who look our way."

"Of course not," Saera said softly, "But there is no shame in acknowledging their interest. My mother told me to keep count, and then let them come to me."

"An excellent strategy, my lady," Samantha nodded in pride before clinking her goblet to Saera's, "If you have a count to keep, that is."

Hyaline clenched her teeth as she scowled at Sam, but the Tarly girl could not have been less phased.

"I am still quite underwhelmed by our choices, I must say." Sam sighed as she set her goblet back down.

"On that I must agree with you, Lady Samantha," Cristine suddenly sighed, catching everyone's attention, "All this talk of lords... Should we not aim higher, my ladies?"

Elaena's heart stuttered as she took in the Celtigar girl's thoughtful expression.

"Believe you me," Cerelle's smooth voice chimed in, "My aim is quite elevated. The lot of you may very well be sitting in the presence of two princesses—one present and one to come."

Helaena smiled softly at the statement, "What an interesting thought..."

Elaena disagreed. The idea brought a wave of unease to her. Without even saying his name, they were discussing Aemond's future so loosely. They'd done as much in every meeting since Daeron had returned to Oldtown.

The more time Elaena spent with Aemond, the more put off she felt with her fellow ladies. She wished to shutdown their clear desires of conquest over him. But she kept quiet out of habit, not wishing to call on more attention to herself.

Unfortunately, Samantha had other plans.

"I've had my own thoughts regarding this match making ordeal." She said, resting her elbows on the table and tethering her fingers.

The ladies seized their giddy conversation before acknowledging Sam. Elaena eyed her in her peripheral, a pang of discomfort itching her as Sam joined in on their intrigue.

"Do tell, Lady Samantha," Cristine chirped, "Seeing as you have acquired a line of suitors thus far, perhaps your word is golden."

"Guilty as charged," Samantha chuckled tightly to the Celtigar girl, "Now I shall not paint this idea as a means for getting attention, I believe Lady Saera is right... The men will come, we needn't act like fools for their favor..."

The table stilled in anticipation for Samantha's idea, and Elaena felt the uncomfortable itch linger on her back. Sam had a certain look in her green eyes.

"But I do believe this could help us sift through the better stock," Samantha nodded, "And also see if Prince Aemond is truly as formidable as the realm claims."

... Samantha... What?

"I propose we take a trip to the training yard on the morrow."

Elaena's fork slipped from her grasp, and she scrambled to pick it up to prevent more havoc. The ladies all furrowed their eyebrows at Samantha—save Saera, whose eyes widened in bafflement.

"The training yard?" Hyaline scoffed, "Where men tear each other apart in droves while cackling that it's good sport?"

"Hear me out," Samantha said softly, "Tis the best place in the Keep to judge strength, stamina, and discernment."

Samantha... What. Are. You. Doing?

"Tis a great place to find a husband and cancel out the poor contenders." She said, sipping from her goblet again as the ladies looked about in thought.

"She has a point." Helaena spoke up, and the table turned to her. Elaena met her gaze with wide, anxious eyes.

Helaena... Do not encourage this. Please, please, hear my thoughts. Please—

"Our training yard breeds splendid knights of the realm, as well as adept swordsman for lords," Helaena nodded, and Elaena's heart sunk, "You may very well meet your match there."

... She can't hear my thoughts. Fuck my life.

"And as far as I know the prince trains every morning," Samantha continued, and Elaena could practically see the bell going off in Cristine's mind, "Quite the sight to behold if the whispers are true."

"I should like to see," Saera beamed, her gaze flickering to Elaena's silent form, "How exciting..."

Saera, please, not you as well...

"Hm... I'll come along as well," Cristine chimed in, smiling with great enthusiasm before looking to Helaena, "If it does not impede on our time with you, princess?"

Helaena's smile deepened, "Not at all," She said softly, meeting Elaena's gaze, "Tis why you are here after all."

"Tis settled then." Cerelle stated, a smirk etching on to her face which Cristine giggled at.

"Very well," Hyaline said halfheartedly, though Ellyn nudged her slightly in encouragement.

Elaena tore her gaze from Helaena's soft violets to eye Samantha in disbelief. The Tarly girl cut into her platter innocently while slowly turning to meet Elaena's gaze.

Sam sent her a subtle wink, and Elaena wished to bore a hole in the floor and die.

• • •

Elaena couldn't help the heavy thumping of her heart as she descended the stairs that morning. Her hand stiffened around her bow, and her tube of arrows jostled against her back as she moved.

Breathe. Relax. Breathe. Relax—Fuck. Relax.

Why had she agreed to this? Why had she felt the need to prove herself? And why in the Seven Hells had Samantha brought them along to watch?

"I wish to stir the pot, as it were," She'd whispered after supper, "You may not notice it, but they have a tendency to overlook you. Their confidence doesn't sit right with me when you're leagues ahead of them already."

But it sat oh-so perfectly with me. I do not want or need their attention. Why can't she see that?

I'm not that special—Breathe. Breathe. . .

She arrived to the entry door of the training yard, feeling her arrows settle on her back.

Relax... Relax, Elaena. It'll be fine—What if I screw it up? It wouldn't be the first time, just go.

But do not be late.

She huffed to herself before pushing the door open. The brightness of the morning nearly blinded her, and her ears immediately registered the clambering of blades and grunts of men.

She swallowed stiffly, hoping she wasn't trembling as she stepped into the yard.

Knights speckled the space, clashing swords and manning steps while young squires watched on diligently. The area where Aemond and Cole normally dueled was desolate, but it was not hard to find his long silver hair by the weaponry.

Her heart stuttered at the sight of his leather clad back, and it took everything in her not to turn around.

A strange giggle could be heard from above, and her gaze leapt up to see her fellow ladies leaning against the balcony railing.

Her heart sank as she took in Cristine and Cerelle's wide grins and refined figures. Ellyn and Hyaline were at their sides, equally intrigued by the sights below. Samantha and Saera stood at the opposite end, mumbling to each other with watchful gazes on the yard.

Aemond selected a sword for the yard's collection, and Cristine nearly hopped in delight. Cerelle clapped along, watching as the prince sauntered towards the dueling area.

Elaena could make out his blank expression then, and with his gaze to the ground, she could tell he was ignorant to the ladies' attention.

Her gaze flickered between him and the ladies above, and she saw Saera notice her emergence first. Her onyx eyes widened as she nudged Samantha, and the Tarly girl's expression brightened immensely.

Elaena swallowed as the girls ogled her archery outfit, and she tore her gaze away to approach Aemond. Whatever thought he'd been lost in came to an end, and he raised his gaze before catching her in his peripheral.

He stopped walking immediately, his eye widening at the sight of her. Her grip on her bow tightened in response.

Relax. Breathe. Relax. It's fine—Fuck, I can't go back now—Relax.

His lip quirked slightly as she stepped before him, "Hello."

"Hello." She said softly, feeling her voice shake as he eyed her clothes.

"Are you ready?" He asked with a subtle smirk, and she nodded quickly through a nervous smile, "Good, come on."

He turned on his heel to lead her to the fresh line of targets. She followed, but she peaked over her shoulder to check the balcony again.

Saera and Samantha smiled to her in excitement, but the other ladies' bright expressions crumbled in confusion. Cristine eyed Elaena's fitted attire blankly, Cerelle squinted in intrigue, Ellyn's expression grew frigid, and Hyaline grimaced to herself.

Elaena pulled her gaze away quickly, focusing on Aemond's lithe form and not the wandering eyes of the yard boys. The further she walked, the more silent scrutiny she felt, and she continued to wonder what the hells she was doing there.

But as she came to stand beside Aemond, he looked to her in a strange glimmer—something brighter than expectation but softer than eagerness.

It is fine, just breathe, just relax, just—

She felt a jolt of energy shoot through her as he rested a hand on the small of her back. She flinched away from him, meeting his eye in wide surprise. His expression faltered from her shock.

... Oh...

"Pardon," He breathed, folding his hands behind his back before focusing on the targets again. Elaena swallowed stiffly as her cheeks flared, "Ehm... Is this alright?"

She looked to the even line of targets, feeling her eyebrows furrow in underwhelming.

... Easy... Very easy—Relax, don't be acquisitive.

She forced a small smile, "Tis perfect, thank you."

"Mm, whenever you've had your fill, the trainees will take after you." He said, nodding to the group of young archers behind them. The boys loitered about their space, gazing at Elaena in curiosity as they waited their turn. Her grip on her bow tightened further.

"Alright." She breathed, and his lips quirked again before he nodded to her. He turned back to approach the dueling area, and Ser Criston emerged from inside the Keep.

Elaena watched the prince and knight converse before her gaze trailed around the yard.

She caught the lingering eyes on her and heard the inquisitive whispers surrounding her presence. The waiting archers gazed at her childishly, and the head bowman watched her in tight skepticism. She turned back to the targets with a shutter.

Relax. Breathe. You're alone. No one is here, you're alone. You want to be here.

You don't want to be anywhere else.

She shut her eyes, trying to tune out the clambering and whispers to the best of her ability.

You're strong. You're strong—Liar—You can do this. You've done it all your life. . .

Suddenly her thoughts rang in Rhaenys's voice, a tone that had compelled her to ease since she'd been a child. She opened her eyes, thinking of the tall woods beyond High Tide and her godmother's words in her ear.

You've done it all your life.

This is too easy.

Suddenly, everything felt just right enough for her. Elaena stepped back as far as the space would allow, ignoring the blaring eyes of the archers behind her. Her stance set instinctively, and her position lined up with the first target.

She could do this. She knew how to be this person.

Just one thing missing...

As she twirled her bow into place, she dug up the memory of Morgrym.

He appeared to her, plump and crude in front of the first target, and Elaena reached behind her shoulder for an arrow. Far... Far too easy...

She drew back with a breath, clenching her teeth at the thought of him. The moment his bulbous nose wrinkled above a curling smile, she loosed.

Thwip.

A solid ten. He stood with his crazed smile, pinned to the target board and fueling her irritation. As she stepped up to align with the next target, she made a plan to return to the first board after conquering the line. Seeing as he was oh-so smug, she would toy with him a bit.

Thwip. . . Thwip. .. Thwip...

She continued down at a steady pace, flicking the wrist of her bow arm slightly to score tens that were a hair away from center.

With each shot, Morgrym's smirk dwindled to nothing. Her mind fluttered at the image, and she struck a final ten before taking a breath and slowly walking backwards.

She shot perfect center marks by the tens she'd previously shot, and her thoughts faded out as the high of mastery took over. She could do this. She was sure of herself—so sure that a smirk etched on to her face as she cornered Morgrym.

Finally, she stood at her initial spot, eyeing Morgrym's cowardly face as a tasteful chill went up her spine. He caved in around her first arrow, suddenly aware of its strike.

Here's another for you then...

Elaena drew back with her final arrow, letting the winter air settle on her skin with the strange spite burning through her. She hated him. She hated him for making her hate him, for making her wish he was truly in front of her aim, for making her feel like she could never truly be this person.

She breathed in, feeling her cheeks flush in the cold. Then, she breathed out in a red daze, taking in Morgrym's pitiful face before loosing.

Thwick—

Her final arrow split quickly through her first, stopping midway through the thin wood and staying there. She blinked, hearing her own breaths leave her at the sight. Her jaw clenched as her red haze simmered down.

Damn... I should have drawn back further.

It was enough to make Morgrym's mirage dissipate into nothing, but she wished her final shot split all the way to the board. She blinked again, letting out a huff as she lowered her bow.

I suppose it's better than missing... Hone it better, you can get it better.

She sighed to herself before trudging to the boards, hearing nothing but the frozen dirt crunch under her feet. She couldn't ignore the beauty of her shots down the line, and as she stood before the targets, she playfully poked at her protruding arrows.

They were deeply sunken in the thick linen, and she placed a hand against the fabric before pulling them out. After clearing her third target, she realized she couldn't hear clanking or grunts anymore, and she felt an itch up her spine.

Her gaze flickered to meet the wide eyes of a group of squires. She seized all movement at the sight, and then trailed her gaze further.

The archers. The head bowman. Knights. Lords. Yard boys.... They all gaped at her in a strange awe. Her heart stopped, and she felt her veins turn to ice.

Her gaze flitted to the balcony, and she was stunned to see Samantha and Saera carrying the same baffled expressions as the other four ladies.

But when she looked directly ahead, she felt her breathing stop as her heart had done.

Aemond's form was still as a statue, and his eye blazed at hers fixedly. Her heart thumped deeply in her chest as he didn't waver from her pointed gaze, his expression far more stunned than she'd yet encountered.

... Move.

Her mind and heart sparked back to life at the subconscious command, and she let out a shaky breath before turning to pluck her remaining arrows as quickly as possible.

Shit. Shit. Shit—Oh, my Gods—Ew, go! Go, go, go!

No one moved save for her. No one even spoke. They only watched as she scrambled to leave the yard in a disposition far different from the confidence she'd exuded just seconds before.

As she secured her bow on her torso, she peaked up to meet Aemond's gaze one last time, and she saw that his expression hadn't changed. Cole stood behind him, equally stunned by her, and she dropped her gaze to the ground.

Just go—Don't trip, please, do not trip. Just go.

The further she got to the yard door, the more the area came back to life. She swallowed stiffly at the sound of hesitant clanking and dumbfounded remarks.

Samantha watched her flee into the Keep, and her green gaze trailed to look at the stifled snobs beside her.

"It appears the princess was right," She whispered to Saera, "They have truly met their match."

• • •

Sylvia stiffened as Elaena burst into her chambers. She sat up in alarm, watching as the lady tore off her bow, threw down her tube of arrows, and pulled at her vest with haste.

"My lady—" Her voice called with ease, but Elaena was too focused on disrobing.

"Please help me," She whispered with a deeply flustered expression, "I need to get this off, please."

Sylvia stepped up immediately, undoing the strings of Elaena's outfit. Once her vest was off, she let out a heavy breath and sank on to her parlor couch.

"Did something happen?" Sylvia asked hesitantly, and Elaena sighed at the sound of her voice.

Oh, something happened alright...

Before Elaena could reply, a knock came at her door. Her eyes widened at Sylvia, and the handmaiden looked to her in apprehension.

"Lady Elaena?" A soft voice called from behind the frame.

Sylvia blinked at the door in recognition, "Nora..."

Elaena's eyebrows furrowed in confusion as Sylvia looked back to her.

"Tis one of Prince Aemond's maids." She whispered, and the lady's heart stuttered, "Shall I answer it?"

"Of course." Elaena said stiffly, her voice light as a feather while her stomach turned.

Sylvia nodded, and then went to let Nora in. She was an older woman, though much younger than the old maid Tabitha.

"My lady," She curtsied gently, "I have come at the behest of the prince. He wishes to see you in the library."

Fuck... Fuck—Now? What did you do? What the hells did you do?

Elaena swallowed dryly, feeling her heart begin to suffocate her. But she nodded to the woman before standing from her couch.

"Help me dress, Sylvia." She breathed, and Sylvia immediately went to find a dress for her.

From the moment she finished changing to the moment she stood at the library entrance, she was a prisoner to her thoughts. She didn't know what to expect, and instinctively, she presented as a blank canvas for whatever reaction Aemond would have.

The old maester smiled softly to her, and she felt her lip quirk in return. She was actually thankful for his kind eyes, as it distracted her nerves for the smallest second.

But then she entered their space, and was met with Aemond's sharp gaze and leaning stature. Her heart skipped as he pushed off from the Waterlaker shelf, and her fingers tethered together in nervousness.

His violet eye glazed over her, searching for something Elaena couldn't hope to know. She said nothing, awaiting his judgement until he sighed through his nose.

"Who taught you to shoot like that?" He said in an indecipherable tone. Her throat went dry as he tilted his head in wait of her answer.

"... My godmother," She said lowly, struggling to ignore her racing heart, "You knew that..."

Aemond blinked at last, and in her peripheral, she could see his fingers fidgeting at his sides. He squinted at her, and she immediately feared she had offended him.

But before she could apologize, he spoke again.

"And when did Rhaenys become the greatest shot in Westeros?"

Her heart stuttered as her eyebrows furrowed in confusion. It was quiet for a moment as she took in his expression again. Yes, he looked at her in stoicism, but after such a question, she could make out a strange glint in his eye.

He looked at her as though he were trying to figure her out.

"Hardly, Aemond." She breathed bashfully, clasping her hands together to keep her relief at bay. He could have exploded at any moment, and she didn't want to let her guard down.

He shook his head, stepping towards her in focus.

"Hardly what?" He said mockingly, "I can believe nothing less if that is the product of her tutelage."

She felt her cheeks flare up at his words, and she forced herself to remain humble.

"She doesn't take to it leisurely," Elaena shrugged, "She simply encouraged my interest in it and showed me the basics."

Aemond's expression remained, but he stood in thoughtful silence as he gazed at her. She was itching to ask for him to say something, but she was too afraid of disappointment.

But finally his lips parted, and he stepped closer to her.

"Then you are gifted." He said softly.

Elaena's heart stopped as her tense expression relaxed. Her chaotic thoughts simmered down to nothing as she took in his curious gaze.

No one had ever said such a thing to her.

"Do you know what the head bowman told me and Cole?" He asked, and her heart stuttered in anticipation.

"What?"

"He hadn't seen such talent in years," Aemond whispered, and she felt a smile threatened her face, "Certainly not in the trainees of present..."

She felt a chuckle bubble through her chest, but she sealed her lips to restrain it. Aemond allowed his lips to curl, only adding to his fixated gaze.

"I can hardly blame him," He continued, "You got every shot—every one, even the imperfect ones. You meant to do that—you meant to, didn't you?"

She blushed deeper as she nodded quickly. His awe became more evident with every word he spoke, and it overwhelmed her—seeing how intrigued he was by something she'd done.

He swallowed as he shook his head in disbelief, "And that last one—Elaena... How? How did you—when did you learn how to do that—that was..."

He trailed off, breathing out in subtle exhilaration, and Elaena felt her heart pick up speed again.

... And here I thought no reaction could be better than his to the novels.

"Believe it or no," She said softly after he stood in silence for her answer, "'Twas a freak incident... It took me a year to learn how I managed it, and even now I sometimes mess it up."

Indeed. Her trick of splitting arrows came after imagining Morgrym in front of a target for the first time. Even she had to admit her first snap had birthed something incredible.

Aemond's wide gaze softened at her, "Why didn't you tell me the setup wasn't enough for you?"

Shit—Don't be arrogant. Tis a sweet gesture, but it is not that big of a deal.

Elaena shrugged, lowering her gaze bashfully, "I didn't wish to seem ungrateful. I know it is not typical for a lady to train amongst men, but you allowed me in without ever formally witnessing me shoot..."

Aemond's eyebrows furrowed in confusion as she fiddled with her fingers. It was truly an honor enough that he gave her a space. She wouldn't admit it, but it had been better playing field than the garden...

Be grateful. Perhaps with enough time you can have more targets, more room...

... Not that... you have a lot time left—

"Well, I could not dream of stifling such ability." He said, cutting her thoughts off and gaining her attention again. His expression remained soft but there was a playful glint in his eye.

Her heart skipped as his lips pursed in mischief.

"You won't withhold from me like this again, now will you?" He asked, folding his arms behind his back.

She blinked, "I won't."

He squinted at her in challenge, and a smile crept on to her face at the sight.

"I promise." She said without thinking, and his gaze lightened on her.

"Mm... What do you need?" He asked softly, and her eyes widened.

. . . What does he mean? Is he—Already? He's allotting me more already?

She squinted at him skeptically, but he continued to look at her in wait.

He's serious... He's truly... Oh.

Elaena swallowed, looking about in building delight as she straightened her posture.

"I um... Well, I can manage well on horseback." She said, and he raised his eyebrows with an impressed expression. She couldn't fight the grin on her face, and she looked away from him as her cheeks flared.

"So, a horse," He noted lowly, "What else?"

"... Scattered playing field?" She requested, peaking up at him. His lip quirked at her meek demeanor, and when he hummed softly to himself, Elaena felt a wave of relief wash over her.

However daunting it had felt, the training yard had been a good idea.

———

It feels so good publishing scenes that have been sitting in my notes for months now. Lord Jesus, it's so relieving.

LOL Samantha and Saera had me dead asf this chapter, I've had so many conversations with my friends like their banter with Elaena. I love how Sam isn't afraid to cut a bitch, and Saera lowkey likes to sit back and watch the world burn 😭 What are your thoughts on them? Can Elaena trust them in this "war"?

My poor baby Helaena, I'm starting to miss writing her even more after season two. She got her own mess going on, but she'll be back soon.

Speaking of babies, I love you too, Sylvia. You're doing such a good job 🤗

You know who else is doing a good job? Elaena, of course. Yes, that was a nod to Princess Merida, that scene in Brave lives in my head rent free. I'm surprised by how possible splitting arrows are tbh. But I'm so proud of my lil girl, she did that shit🩵

Now for brass tax 🗿 How we feelin about Aemond? Teehee, say what you will, but I'm a slut for soft!Aemond. There's just something about him, and now I'm kinda addicted to slow burn (sorry.)

Cant wait to escalate this story more, I hope you've been enjoying it so far. Ima sign off before the midnight train of thinking commences.

PEACE 😘🫶🏼