i-write-long-stuff

[i-write-long-stuff]

The House of Snakes

A Game Of Thrones Fanfiction

Princess Elia.

Part 2

You woke up feeling surprisingly refreshed. The sunlight streamed in through the window, bathing the room in a soft glow. You stretched and got out of bed, feeling a flutter of nerves in your stomach. Today was the day you were scheduled to meet the princess. You had received a letter asking you to join Princess Elia in her private quarters that morning to meet her. You quickly got ready, choosing a simple yet elegant gown to wear. You took one last look in the mirror, smoothing down invisible wrinkles on your skirts before taking a deep breath.

It was time.

You left your bedroom and made your way through the castle hallways, your heart pounding in your chest. You passed by servants and courtiers, all of whom gave you a curious glance before continuing their tasks. It had been a week since you had met the strange boy in the garden and you hadn’t seen him since. You had tried to ask around about him, but so far it seemed nobody knew him.

You had hence decided to forget about him.

And focus on the most important…

You stopped in front of a pair of ornate doors, flanked by two guards. This was it. The Princess' chambers. You took a deep breath and knocked gently on the door. For a few moments, there was no sound. Then, the sound of footsteps and the turn of a key before the door opened, revealing a middle-aged woman wearing a gray gown. She smiled at you and gave a small bob of her head.

"Ah, you must be the new lady-in-waiting to be assigned to the Princess," she said, her voice soft and warm. "Please, come in."

You walked in, your eyes widening at the opulence of the room. The walls were lined with silk drapes and golden embroideries, while the floor was carpeted with thick Myrish rugs. In the center of the room was a couch, upon which a girl was sitting. She was wearing a beautiful violet gown, her black hair falling over her shoulders in soft waves.

She looked like a jewel. She glowed.

It didn’t take long for you to know who she was.

This was Elia. Princess of Dorne.

You immediately curtsied before her.

"It is an honour to meet you, Princess Elia."

Princess Elia smiled at you, her eyes held kindness and warmth within.

"Please, there's no need for such formalities," she said, gesturing for you to sit beside her on the couch. "You are to be my lady-in-waiting now, it is best we get comfortable with each other."

You hesitated before sitting down next to her on the couch, your heart still pounding in your chest. Elia was even more beautiful up close, her delicate features and dark eyes giving her an almost ethereal presence.

She eyed you intently, as if studying you.

"I have heard much about you," she said, a small smile curving her lips. "I am told you come from House Dayne."

You nodded in affirmation, feeling your cheeks grow warm under her intense gaze.

"Yes, Princess," you replied, your voice barely above a whisper. "I am Avy. Of House Dayne. The oldest daughter of Lord Edric."

Elia nodded, a thoughtful expression on her face.

"House Dayne...of Starfall," she mused, her fingers idly fiddling with the fabric of her gown. "I have always liked that about your family. The whole house is marked with celestial bodies; your swords, your castle..."

She looked up at you, her gaze piercing.

"Even your eyes."

Your eyes widened at her unexpected comment.

"M-My eyes, Princess ?" You asked—dumbfounded.

Elia chuckled at your reaction, her eyes glinting with amusement. She shifted on the couch, angling herself towards you.

"Yes, your eyes," she repeated, her voice soft. "They say that the eyes are windows to the soul...and yours seem to have a certain...glow to them."

She leaned in a little closer, inspecting your face intently.

"As if they are made of starlight."

You smiled—warmth flooding in your heart at the Princess’ words.

"You flatter me, Princess Elia. They are nothing compared to your beauty and kindness. I look forward to serving you to the best of my ability." You replied and Elia beamed at your compliment, enjoying the praise.

"Oh, you are very sweet," she said, gently patting your hand to show her appreciation. "I can already tell we are going to get along just fine you and I."

You felt happy by the Princess’ words and she grinned at you. She then got up from the couch and moved over to a table near the window, gesturing for you to follow.

"Come, let me show you something."

You blinked twice in surprise at the unexpected request before wordlessly following Elia. She led you to a table where several scrolls and parchments were spread out. She picked up one of the scrolls and unrolled it carefully, laying it flat on the table.

It was a map of Westeros, each region labeled with its respective coat of arms and landmark.

Elia pointed at the furthest southern part of the continent, where Dorne was depicted.

"Here," she said, her voice low and soft. "This is our home."

You studied the map, your eyes flicking over the familiar landmarks and names. You began to list some of the prominent features and locations in Dorne: the towering Red Mountains, the fertile valleys, the scorching deserts...Elia listened intently, her eyes following your finger as you pointed at different places on the map.

After a while, she smiled and nodded approvingly.

"Very good," she said, rolling up the scroll once more. "You know our home well. That's a good sign. A lady-in-waiting who is well-versed in her home terrain is a valuable asset. The last lady-in-waiting my mother bestowed upon me didn’t know anything about our house and she was such a bore too. But I can tell that you are different."

She put the scroll down and turned to face you, her eyes searching your face.

"Tell me, Avy," she said, her voice dropping a little. "Have you ever been to King's Landing before ? To the Red Keep ?"

You frowned before shaking your head.

"No, Princess."

Elia hummed, her eyes wandering aimlessly around the room.

"Hmm...I thought so," she mused, a small smile graced her face. "You look quite young and inexperienced...like a little bird who has just left its nest."

You held back a chuckle. Princess Elia was…quite the character. She talked as if she was already experienced in the ways of the world, but she seemed almost the same age as you—if not younger. She quickly walked over to another table, where a tray holding cups and a pitcher of wine stood. She picked up the pitcher and a cup, pouring some of the dark liquid into it.

You watched, but then frowned in confusion as you realised she hadn’t told you why she was so curious about King’s Landing and the world beyond the sea…

"Forgive me, Princess. But I do not follow…Why are you talking about places like King’s Landing or Red Keep ? Are you going on a trip ?"

Elia set down the pitcher and turned back to you, offering you a small enigmatic smile. She handed you the cup of wine, which you accepted with a nod of thanks.

"No no," she answered quickly with a reassuring smile, but her voice sounding almost…worried. "There is no trip planned...at least, not yet."

Not yet ? You asked yourself before taking a sip of wine. Elia leaned back against the couch, closing her eyes for a moment as if lost in thought. For a moment, the room was silent, save for the sound of the wind rustling through the curtains.

Then, she spoke again, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Avy ?"

You gulped.

"Y-Yes, Princess Elia ?"

Elia opened her eyes and fixed them on you, her gaze holding a hint of something almost like...fear.

"Can I tell you a secret ?"

Your eyes widened.

"I…Yes. Of course, Princess. I am at your service." You promptly answered. Elia smiled faintly at your confirmation before sighing and leaning closer to you.

"Good. What I am about to share with you must not leave this room," she said, her voice low and serious. "Can I trust you to keep my confidence ?"

You nodded frantically. You were brought to her to keep her company and be loyal to her, and you would keep that promise. Elia studied your face for a moment, as if trying to decipher the truthfulness of your words. Then, seemingly satisfied, she relaxed a bit.

"Very well then," she said, her voice regaining a hint of its usual strength. "However...what I am about to tell you must remain between us. Nobody, and I mean NOBODY, can know about this. Not even my brothers."

You nodded once more.

"I am your lady-in-waiting, Princess. My lips are sealed."

Elia chuckled quietly, her shoulders relaxing a little more at your declaration.

"You are truly a loyal one...a most admirable quality ," she commented, her dark eyes regarding you kindly. She then hesitated for a moment, as if gathering her thoughts, before speaking again. "Avy...do you know why you were chosen as my lady-in-waiting ?"

You frowned in confusion at the question.

"I…No, Princess. Why ?"

Elia took another sip of her wine, before setting the cup down on a nearby table.

"You were chosen because you are the eldest daughter of House Dayne," she said, her eyes never leaving your face. "You have a good name, a good house, and respectable lineage…all of which are qualities I would want in a lady-in-waiting."

She paused for a moment before continuing.

"But truthfully…there is also another reason..."

"Which is ?" You asked—your curiosity and confusion growing alike. Elia leaned even closer to you, her voice dropping to a whisper as she admitted.

"I…may be called upon to leave for King’s Landing shortly to marry the King." She took a deep breath and continued. "And I need someone I can trust, someone who could be my eyes and ears in this new life…someone who could keep me informed of any...unwanted whispers or threats."

Your eyes widened in surprise. King’s Landing…married...She was telling you that she might be asked to marry the king ?!

"You…" you faltered, your voice shaking a little. "You wish me to leave with you and act as your…spy…if you go to King’s Landing ?"

Elia’s eyes flickered with amusement at your reaction. She chuckled quietly.

"Well…spy is a rather harsh word," she said, a smirk on her lips. "But in essence…yes. I would need your help in keeping me informed of any happenings within the city. At court."

Your mind was swirling with a thousand thoughts and feelings. It was a lot to take in…but it was also an honour to be seen as someone worthy of trust and responsibility.

"I…" you started, your voice shaking slightly. You thought about your family, about your home you would probably never see again. You then thought about the honour and responsibility it would bring to be Princess’ Elia’s lady-in-waiting and spy…Finally, you took your decision and nodded. "I would be honoured…if you chose me for such a task, Princess Elia."

Elia smiled at your response, her eyes filled with relief and appreciation.

"You are truly a wonder," she said, gently patting your hand. "I am glad I chose you for this task. I trust you to look out for my best interests and the best interests of Dorne once we get there."

She leaned closer to you once more, her expression turning serious again.

"However, you will have to be discreet. As discreet and inconspicuous as a little bird."

You nodded, determination filling your heart.

"I promise, Princess," you said, your voice steady. "I will be discreet, I will be the perfect lady-in-waiting. Nobody will suspect me."

Elia smiled again, her eyes scanning your face with satisfied pride.

"Good…" she breathed, her shoulders dropping as if a weight had been lifted. "Good…I know I can count on you, Avy. You are a true daughter of Dorne."

You blushed a little at her words, your heart swelling with a strange mix of pride and nervousness.

"Thank you, Princess."

Elia chuckled again, the tension in her shoulders easing a little more. She finished her cup before sighing and walking back towards the couch, gesturing for you to sit next to her.

"I have to warn you. There are whispers," she said, once you were seated. "Rumors about King's Landing, the Red Keep...about what those places might be like. It is said they are places of horror and bloodshed."

Elia's words sent a shiver down your spine. You knew that King's Landing was anything but a peaceful place; rife with scheming nobles, ambitious knights and whispered rumours...

You looked at Elia nervously, waiting for her to continue. Elia noticed your hesitation and gently placed a soothing hand on your shoulder.

"But do not worry," she reassured you, her voice soft and comforting. "I merely want you to be prepared. Should the time come...if the rumors hold any truth...we might find ourselves in the capital soon. And I would feel better with a friend by my side."

You smiled back at her—but you were still nervous. You had never traveled outside of Dorne before…You were scared you wouldn’t be up to the task. Elia smiled at you, obviously noticing your unease.

"Now, now, do not worry yourself too much," she said, giving your shoulder a gentle squeeze. "Right now, we remain in Dorne. And I have you beside me. For now, that is all that matters."

You nodded, taking a shaky sip from your cup to calm your nerves. Elia was right. There was no point in worrying about something that may not even happen.

However, a small voice at the back of your mind whispered to you...what if...?

A few days later:

You had officially become Princess Elia’s lady-in-waiting. She had asked of you random easy tasks that you had had no trouble tackling—preparing food, washing clothes, do her hair…So far, your relationship with the Princess seemed to be working and she had no yet complained about your services.

Everything had been uneventful and peaceful…until one day.

There was a knock at her door as you were finishing preparing Elia for the day. Elia looked up, a hint of annoyance crossing her face before it was quickly replaced by a courteous smile.

"Come in." She called out and Prince Oberyn came in with a big smile on his face.

"Good morning, sister."

Elia rolled her eyes affectionately at her brother.

"Oberyn," she greeted, a hint of fondness in her voice. "To what do I owe this unannounced visit ?"

You immediately curtsied at his arrival—without even looking up at his face. You knew that making eye contact from the start with the Prince could be considered rude and you had no intention to upset any member of the Martell family.

Oberyn glanced over at you, his eyes glinting with a mix of appreciation and amusement.

"Ah, the newest addition to your entourage," he said, his voice carrying a hint of mirth. "Quite the pretty little desert rose, isn’t she ?"

Your eyes widened…that nickname. You slowly looked up to meet two familiar pools of molten chocolate looking at you with clear amusement. You gasped as you recognised him.

"…The poet." You uttered in a whisper.

He was very real after all…

Oberyn chuckled at your reaction, his eyes dancing with mischief.

"Ah, so you do remember our chance encounter," he said, a smirk plastered on his handsome face. "I am glad. I would have thought you would have all but forgotten about it after the way you fled last time we met."

Elia raised an eyebrow in surprise at your exchange.

"You two have met before ?"

Your cheeks burnt as you answered.

"Yes. Our path crossed once."

Elia looked from you to Oberyn, her eyes flicking between the two of you.

"I see…" she acknowledged, a knowing smirk curving her lips. "And where exactly did this lucky encounter take place ?"

"In the Water gardens…" you muttered reluctantly, your heart racing as you remembered that night. Oberyn chuckled, his eyes never leaving your face.

"Yes, in the gardens," he confirmed, his tone smug. "We engaged in a delightful conversation in the alcove where I usually spend my time writing. Then a little bird decided to fly into my hiding place and read one of my poems…"

Elia quirked an eyebrow at your face and the mischievous twinkle in Oberyn’s eyes.

"Oh, really ?" she asked, a note of curiosity coloring her voice. "And what was this poem about ?"

"It was a poem about a flame tree." You replied.

Oberyn smiled at your words, that same proud look in his eyes that he had last time.

"Ah yes," he recalled, his tone laced with arrogance. "One of my best, I think."

Elia rolled her eyes, though her gaze held an amused glint.

"Oh please, Oberyn," she teased. "You say that about all of your works. Spare us the boasting, will you ?"

Oberyn feigned offence at Elia’s remark, mock-clutching his chest as if wounded.

"Ah, how you wound me, sweet sister," he exclaimed, a dramatic hand to his heart. "To dismiss my work as mere boasting. I thought you appreciated my poetry…"

Elia rolled her eyes again, clearly used to her brother's theatrics.

"I never said I didn't appreciate your work," she shot back. "I just said you have the bad habit of blowing your own horn a little too loudly."

Oberyn shrugged carelessly, a smirk still playing on his lips.

"Ah, but what's the fun in being humble ?" he asked, a mischievous glint in his eyes. He looked at you again, his gaze assessing before he inquired. "And what did you think of my poem, lovely desert rose ?”

Your face was flushed like a flame tree as you admitted.

"It was very impressive, my Prince. I wish I had your way with words…"

Oberyn chuckled at the sight of your blushing cheeks, his eyes dancing with amusement.

"Oh, do you now ?" he teased, his voice carrying a hint of mockery. "Well, I suppose I could give you a few tips if you feel so inclined…"

Elia cleared her throat loudly, drawing both of your attention.

"Enough with the flirtations, Oberyn," she chastised him playfully but you then perked up and your mouth worked before her brain.

"I would love lessons."

Elia raised an eyebrow in surprise at your eagerness, while Oberyn’s smirk widened.

"Oh, you would, would you ?" he asked, his eyes glinting with mischief. "You would be willing to take lessons from me, little bird ?"

You nodded.

"Your poem made me…happy. I would love to learn how to create emotions through my words the same way you do, my Prince."

Oberyn’s smirk had grown into a genuine smile by this point. He was impressed by your earnestness, and also a little surprised.

"Impressive," he murmured, still looking at you. "Most young women I have encountered would be more interested in learning some…other things from me. You are the first one to be so eager to learn poetry."

You frowned.

"Other things, my Prince ?"

Oberyn chuckled, his eyes glinting with suggestive mischief.

"Oh, you know…" he purred, his voice low and smooth. "The usual things princes offer young ladies: gifts of jewels, pretty dresses, rides on horseback…"

Elia rolled her eyes again, but there was a hint of amusement in her voice. "And wine, no doubt."

"And wine, of course," Oberyn confirmed, grinning unabashedly. He leaned a little closer to you, his eyes glinting with amusement. "But you, my little desert rose…you seem to have an interest in something a little more…intellectual. And for that, I must admit, a part of me admires you."

You tilted your head.

"Learning from you would be a great honour, Prince Oberyn."

Oberyn’s smirk softened a little at your words, a hint of genuine appreciation in his eyes.

"Such sweet words…" he murmured, studying your face carefully. "It’s refreshing, really. Most women at court would fawn over me with empty promises and hollow flatteries…but you, little Avy, are different."

You smiled before nodding.

"Thank you, my Prince."

Oberyn returned your smile with a smirk of his own. "You are most welcome…"

Elia cleared her throat again, breaking the moment.

"If you two are done flirting…"

You looked back at Princess Elia with an apologetic smile.

"Of course, Princess. My apologies. Your brother has a gift with words and I simply wished to learn. That is all. But I am at your service. Tell me what you would have me do and I shall obey."

Elia chuckled softly at your words, a hint of amusement in her gaze. "Oh, I know Oberyn has a gift with words…he could charm the bark off a dragon if he wanted to."

Oberyn chuckled at her comment, giving his sister a wink. Elia smiled and looked back at you, her expression turning serious.

"As for what I would have you do…I actually have a small errand for you."

You nodded in agreement.

"Yes, Princess."

Elia gestured for you to come closer, her voice lowering to a conspiratorial whisper. "I need you to go to the city and purchase some herbs for me…"

Oberyn perked up at the mention of the city. "Herbs ?" he inquired, an eyebrow raised. "What kind of herbs, pray tell ?"

Elia shot her brother a quick glare, clearly not wanting to give away too much. But she relented when she saw the curiosity on his face.

"Herbs for…feminine troubles, Oberyn," she said, her voice taking on a sharp edge. The glare she sent her brother’s way made him raise his hands in mock surrender.

Oberyn raised his hands in a mock-surrender gesture. "Alright. Alright. No need to bite my head off, dear sister," he chuckled. "I didn’t say anything."

He then looked over at you, a sly grin on his face. "And you are sending pretty little Avy all on her own to pick these up for you ?"

"Yes, I am," Elia nodded, a hint of warning in her eyes. "I trust her to handle the errand discreetly."

Oberyn leaned back against the door, a smirk on his face.

"Discreetly, is that right ?" he mused and took a seat. "Such a shame…I would love to accompany her to the city..."

"Absolutely not," Elia said firmly, cutting off any protest from her brother. "You are not to accompany her."

Oberyn pouted playfully, but there was a glint of disappointment in his eyes.

"Why ? Can’t I even accompany her to assure her safe journey ?"

Elia fixed him with a stern look. "No, you cannot “accompany” her. I need this errand run discreetly, and with minimal incident. I don’t need you causing chaos in the city and drawing unnecessary attention to my business."

Oberyn sighed in mock-defeat. "Oh, fine," he said, throwing his hands up in surrender once more. "I won’t tag along. But I will be very bored."

Elia rolled her eyes again. "You will survive," she said dryly. "Now, if you will excuse us…I need to give Alexandra the details of her errand."

Oberyn stood up from his seat, a hint of disappointment in his gaze. "Very well, I will take my leave then."

He turned to you, his eyes lingering on your face for a moment. "Until next time, Lady Avy."

You looked back at him and smiled before curtsying.

"Until next time, Prince Oberyn. I look forward to learning from you."

Oberyn smirked, a glint of amusement in his eyes. "And I look forward to teaching you," he murmured. He gave you one last nod before exiting the room, leaving you alone with Elia. You watched him leave and smiled.

You were truly looking forward to those lessons…

Elia watched her brother leave, a sigh of relief escaping her lips when he was gone and the door locked.

"And good riddance to him," she muttered, rolling her eyes. "I do love him, I really do…but he can be such a handful sometimes."

She turned her gaze back to you, her expression turning serious again.

"Now then, about your errand…" she said, her voice taking on a business-like tone. "You will need to go to the city market and purchase a few items for me."

Elia reached over to her desk and rummaged through a small bag, pulling out a list and handing it to you.

"Here is the list of items I need," she said. "Make sure to be discreet, and don’t draw any unwanted attention to yourself. Understood ?"

You nodded, taking the list from her and glancing down at it. It seemed like a relatively simple errand—purchase a few herbs from the city market and return them to Elia. You looked back up at her, a determined expression on your face.

"Yes, Princess. I understand," you replied understandingly.

"Good," she said. "I knew I could count on you, Avy. Remember, discretion is key. And don't be gone too long, either. I need these herbs as soon as possible."

She reached into her desk again and retrieved a small pouch, presumably filled with coins. She handed it to you.

"Here's some coins to cover the expenses," she said. "It should be more than enough. Do try not to lose them, please."

You took the pouch from her, feeling the weight of the coins in your hand. You nodded in response, tucking the pouch into the pocket of your dress.

"I won't lose them, Princess. And I will return as quickly as possible," you assured her.

Elia smiled again, clearly satisfied with your confidence.

"Excellent. Then you may go. And remember, discretion is key," she said, her tone firm. "Be careful, and don't let anyone see you that shouldn't."

You nodded again, feeling a little flutter of nervous anticipation. This was your first solo errand for Elia, and you were determined not to disappoint her.

"I won't let you down, Princess," you promised, your voice steady. Elia smiled warmly at you, a hint of pride in her eyes.

"I know you won't," she said. "Now, be off with you. The sooner you go, the sooner you can return and complete your errand."

You nodded again, tucking the list of herbs into your pocket.

"Thank you, Princess. I shall return soon," you said, trying to keep your voice steady.

With one final nod, you turned and left the room, the list of herbs and the weight of the pouch feeling heavier than ever as you made your way to the city market.

[i-write-long-stuff]

The House of Snakes

A Game Of Thrones Fanfiction

The Flame Tree.

Part 1

Warning: The Poem isn’t mine, even though I wish it was.

It was on a lovely summer night. Everyone was asleep and no sound could be heard in Sunspear, the seat of House Martell. It was your first night away from your mother, as you were to become a lady-in-waiting of Princess Elia who you had yet to meet with. It had been days now, but no one had asked for you or explained what you would be doing for the Princess. It made you anxious—wondering if you hadn’t been called upon by mistake.

You had been unable to find sleep right away because of those stressful thoughts and hence, you decided to stand up to take a walk instead. However, you hadn't anticipated how dark the corridors could be at night and each step you took made you shiver with fright as the cold reached your bones. You attempted to warm yourself up by frantically stroking your sides—but to no avail. You took a long breath before looking up at the ceiling—wishing the stars would light your way. However, you didn't have to wish for long as suddenly, a bright light appeared...You looked up and smiled as the moon seemed to light your way to the gardens. You followed the path down to the huge and beautiful Water Gardens.

But then…another light appeared.

You froze in the darkness of the corridor, your heart beating like a drum in your chest. No one was supposed to be awake at this hour—least of all in the gardens. The soft, silvery light pouring from its entrance cast dancing shadows upon the stone floor, as if the shadows themselves had come alive to greet whomever it is that walked among the flowers in the dead of night. The urge to turn back and return to your bedroom was strong, but a burning curiosity gripped at your heart, pulling you towards the gardens.

With a deep breath, you began to quietly make your way towards the source of the light.

Your eyes lit up at the presence of purple flowers and the smell of jasmine and orange blossoms filled your nose. You then walked into a hidden alcove where there was a lamp with a burning candle in it. There was a book as well next to it—opened on the wooden table situated in the middle of the alcove.

Your eyes scanned the area, taking in the sight of the lamp and the open book. The scent of jasmine and orange blossoms danced in the air, mingling with the faint flickering light of the candle. Yet, despite the tranquil setting, there was no sign of anyone in the hidden alcove.

Curious, you approached the table, your fingers hesitating above the pages of the book. Did the person who lit the lamp and left the book behind simply step away for a moment, or was it abandoned here ?

Your eyes narrowed as you tried to read the words written in it with a very pretty and neat handwriting. It was all frail and curls…

You leaned closer, your eyes narrowing as you scrutinized the neat handwriting that adorned the pages of the book. Although the candlelight was dim, it provided just enough light for you to make out the words. Despite the darkness, the letters seemed to flow together with a certain grace, almost as if they were a continuation of the very plants and blooms that were found in the garden. The writer had a certain elegance to their penmanship—delicate and refined. You sat down in the chair that was by the table, the sound of your skirts ruffling softly in the silence of the night.

"The Flame Tree." You read the title aloud before proceeding to read the rest.

"I wanted to prove,

Whether to myself or the world was unclear,

Doubts I tried to remove,

From the minds I held dear.

I ran when I should have walked,

Frowned when I should have smiled,

Fixated upon worrying thoughts,

Forgetting to nurture my inner child.

One cloudy morn,

I saw the Flame Tree in bloom,

Glowing like the embers of a fire worn,

Dispelling my long mental gloom.

I stopped to ponder,

What is was that I was after,

Was it worth all I had squandered,

Sad moments that should have been filled with laughter.

As the sun broke through the clouds,

The tree erupted into flames,

Vibrant colors proclaiming aloud,

Seek internal balance not whimsical fame.

The Flame Tree rekindled my spirit,

Reminding me what was my life’s purpose,

To stop weighing my demerits,

And to enter humanity’s service.

“Give”, said the tree,

“Have courage”, said the blossoms,

Burning bright the tree spread its wisdom,

A flame of hope in our personal darkness."

The words of the poem seemed to echo around you as you read them aloud, each syllable bouncing off the stone walls of the alcove and blending together with the sweet scent of the jasmine and orange blossoms. The image of a Flame Tree in full bloom, its fiery colors dispelling the gloom of the mind, was painted so vividly in your mind that it seemed as though you could reach out and touch the petals yourself.

As you read the final line of the poem, you were left feeling a sense of purpose, a sense that perhaps there was more to life than just worrying. You suddenly felt a lot lighter, as if all your worries had turned to star dust in the wind…

You looked up from the page, your breath shallow and your heart pounding in your chest. Who had written such beautiful words ? And why had they left the book in this hidden alcove, as if it were a secret meant only for the eyes of those who chanced upon it ?

With a sigh, you closed your eyes and leaned your head against the back of the chair, your mind still filled with the image of the Flame Tree. The soft light from the burning candle flickered behind your closed eyelids, the shadows dancing like phantoms in a dream. You sat there for a few moments, simply listening to the sound of your own breathing and the gentle hum of the garden around you as well as the different sounds of its inconspicuous inhabitants.

You smiled to yourself.

It was…so peaceful.

Suddenly, your quiet moment was interrupted however. You heard the sound of footsteps coming from outside the alcove, their soft echoes breaking the silence of the night. You opened your eyes and looked towards the entrance of the alcove. But, you didn’t see anyone. You frowned in confusion before a soft voice unexpectedly whispered in your ear.

"Looking for someone ?"

Your heart nearly leaped out of your chest at the soft whisper. You whipped around in your chair, your eyes meeting big brown ones. Your heartbeat slowed down.

It was only a boy.

The boy stood there, one eyebrow raised as he looked down at you with a small smirk on his face. He had a lean, athletic build, with messy dark hair that curled at the ends, framing his sharp features. His eyes, dark and intense, seemed to hold a hint of amusement as they roamed over your slightly disheveled form.

How had he even managed to sneak up on you without making a sound ? You opened your mouth to say something, but he then looked down at the book you were holding and he gave you a knowing smile.

"~Ah. You read it…" His eyes raised back to look at you before he inquired. "Did you enjoy my poem, my lady ?"

You froze as the boy looked down at the book in your hands, his smile widening slightly. You were surprised by his words. You looked down to the book in your hands as well.

"You…wrote this ?" you asked and the boy’s smile widened before he nodded—both hands clasped behind his back. He seemed proud of himself—awaiting praise no doubt.

"Indeed," he said, his gaze flickering back and forth between you and the open book in your hands. "But I am more than open to constructive criticism. So…allow me to ask once more. Did you enjoy it, my lady ?"

You swallowed, suddenly feeling strangely shy in the presence of this mysterious and self-assured boy with his inquisitive eyes. You looked back down at the poem, trying to keep your eyes from wandering up to his face.

"It is very good," you admitted, closing the book with a soft thump. "You are very talented, my lord."

The boy’s smirk morphed into a full-fledged cocky grin at your awaited praise. He leaned against one of the stone walls of the alcove, his arms casually crossed over his chest.

"I try my best," he said, a hint of mock humility in his voice. He then casually walked towards you and perched himself on the edge of the table. You looked up at him and forced yourself not to fidget too much in your seat. He made you nervous.

The boy leaned back on his hands, his gaze fixated on you. There was a lazy grace in the way he moved, like a snake parting the herbs with its graceful undulations.

"So, what brings you to the gardens at such a late hour, my lady ?" he inquired, tilting his head slightly to the side.

You smiled sheepishly before shrugging.

"…I needed some fresh air."

The boy raised an eyebrow at your sheepish smile, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips.

"Fresh air, huh ?" he echoed, his voice dripping with playful disbelief. "Is the castle air too stifling for you, my lady ?"

Your eyes widened slightly at the playful reproach. You suddenly felt embarrassed and looked away.

"I…It is my first night in the castle and I am simply not accustomed to my bedroom just yet." you tried to sound nonchalant as you replied.

The boy chuckled, the sound rich and warm like expensive Dornish wine. He pushed himself off the table to stand up.

"Ah, a new lady-in-waiting, I presume," he said, his voice like silk. "That explains why I haven't seen you before."

You nodded and started playing with the fabric of your dress anxiously. Your eyes kept flicking left and right as you tried to escape the young man’s gaze. Your mother had warned you to never be left alone with a man until you found yourself a husband…but you knew better than to tell the young man who had been nothing but courteous so far.

The boy smirked at the obvious display of anxiety, his eyes watching your nervous gestures with barely concealed amusement.

"No need to be nervous," he murmured with a grin. "I don't bite."

You smiled back weakly.

"I apologise. I have trouble maintaining eye contact…My mother told me it was going to get better with time."

The boy chuckled once again, the sound deep and rich. He seemed to take great pleasure in your awkwardness.

"Oh really ? You won’t look at me ?" he inquired, his eyes glinting mischievously. "How rude…Me who thought we could be friends. But if you cannot even look at me…"

You hesitated. You did need a friend.

You then felt his index finger gently tilting your chin up, forcing you to look at him. His touch was feather-like, his fingers cool against your skin. He was standing so close now that you could see every nuance of his face, every fleck in his eyes. Two pools of molten chocolate.

He was close enough that you could smell his scent…something earthy and spicy, like cloves.

He cocked his head to the side, a slow smile spreading across his face as he held your chin in his hand, tilting it higher to force you to maintain eye contact.

"There we go," he whispered approvingly, his warm breath tickling your cheek. "You’re not so bad at it after all, my sweet desert rose…"

You swallowed, feeling your cheeks grow hotter under his intense gaze. The endearment slipped off his tongue smoothly…effortlessly.

My sweet desert rose.

Despite yourself, you felt a shiver go down your spine at the nickname. It sounded almost…intimate, as if he were bestowing you with a precious title just for you. You blinked twice in astonishment before pulling away from his touch and shaking your head.

No. This was a stranger. A boy whom you had stumbled upon in the gardens at night. Nothing more. Yet, you could not deny that his eyes seemed to hold you captive, his gaze almost possessing a magnetic pull.

The boy’s smile widened as he noticed the flush creeping up your cheeks. He leaned closer, so close that his nose almost brushed against yours.

"I apologise, my lady," he whispered, his voice a soft murmur. "I never caught your name. What is it, my lady ‘can’t look me in the eye’ ?"

His words wrapped around you like a velvety caress, wrapping around your heart and squeezing. You suddenly felt yourself at a loss for words. But, you eventually managed to regain your composure. You smiled politely before answering:

"Lady Avy. Of House Dayne."

The boy’s eyes gleamed with interest at your revelation. He tilted his head further to the side, looking at you as if you were a particularly fascinating specimen.

"House Dayne," he repeated, his voice almost a purr. "The Sword of the Morning. You’re a long way from home, lady Avy."

You nodded.

"I am…to be Princess Elia’s new lady-in-waiting."

Something sparked in the boy’s eyes at your words.

"Ah," he murmured, his gaze studying your face intently. "Of course. Princess Elia…I should have guessed."

He hummed and tilted his head curiously at you. He then gave you a mischievous grin.

"And is that why you are here in the gardens at night, hm ?" he asked in a conspirative way, his voice low and secretive. "To escape your duties as a lady-in-waiting ?"

You frowned and shook your head promptly.

"No ! I am happy to become her lady-in-waiting ! It is an honour…I just…" You hesitated and looked down at your lap. "I haven’t met her yet. And I am quite nervous. I hope she will like me…"

The boy hummed under his breath again as you spoke.

"Nervous," he repeated, the word rolling off his tongue smoothly—as if the concept in itself was foreign to him. "Why are you nervous, my dear lady Avy ? I am sure the Princess will love you. You’re too sweet for her not to."

You remained with your eyes cast downwards.

"I really hope she does. I heard that she is kind, but…that she also rejected quite a few women who asked to be her ladies-in-waiting."

He hummed understandingly.

"~Ah, you have heard a few rumors about the princess, have you ?" he inquired, his voice soft but with a hint of amusement. "Don’t believe everything you hear, my dear. Princess Elia is a sweet and kind girl."

You looked up at him.

"How would you know ?"

The boy’s smirk widened, as if he knew a secret that you didn’t. He leaned in even closer, his face merely inches away from yours.

"How do I know ?" he repeated, his voice dropping to a whisper. "Let’s just say that I…know her quite well."

You felt your breath hitch at his closeness. It seemed the boy had no shame or he didn’t care that be was being quite invasive. You stood up in a hurry.

"Hum…I should…I should return to my bedroom now. I am supposed to meet the princess soon and I need to be well rested…"

The boy’s smirk morphed into a pout at your sudden eagerness to leave. He leaned casually against the table, crossing his arms over his chest.

"Ah, so soon ? And here I was, hoping to talk with you a bit longer…" he said, his eyes trained on you intently.

You coughed and nodded before looking away.

"I…Yes. My bedroom. I mean…I should go. But hum…it was nice meeting you."

The boy chuckled at your obvious discomfort and pushed himself off the table, sauntering towards you with that same easy grace. He stopped right in front of you, his presence making your heart flutter.

"Very well then. Farewell for now, sweet lady Avy," He then bid you farewell with a courteous kiss on the back of your hand. "But I assure you, we will meet again…sooner than you think."

You smiled politely and nodded before leaving in a hurry. The young man’s eyes not leaving you until you were out of sight. Then, a small smile returned to his lips.

"Sweet dreams, my lady."

In your bedroom:

You settled onto your bed and let out a shaky breath, your mind replaying the events of the night…the boy in the gardens, his dark eyes, his touch…It was only when you were in your bed that you realized…you hadn’t asked for his name. You groaned, smacking a pillow over your face. In your haste to leave, you had forgotten to ask for his name. You took deep breaths, trying to regulate your breathing and your racing heartbeat. You then lowered the pillow to look down at the back of your hand, the skin there still tingling from the brush of the boy’s warm lips.

You stared down at the back of your hand for a moment, the memory of his kiss still lingering on your skin. You tried to shake the thought away, but it seemed to cling to you like a barnacle on a ship.

How could you have been so careless ? You had engaged in a whole conversation with a mysterious boy in the gardens, and yet you had failed to ask for something as simple as his name.

How could you forget to ask for his name ?

You sighed and closed your eyes.

It didn’t matter.

All that mattered now was getting some rest to make a good impression on the princess…You shifted position on the bed, doing your best to get comfortable. You forced your eyes to close, trying to clear your mind.

Right.

Tomorrow, you needed to be well rested and presentable. Your family was counting on you to make a good impression, and you could not let anything get in the way. Despite the lingering thoughts of the boy in the gardens, you eventually managed to drift off into sleep. Your dreams filled with images of a flame tree burning bright and molten chocolate eyes…