Will You Still Love Me? (Gwayne Hightower x OFC) 2
https://www.tumblr.com/justdillydally/759136953047433216/will-you-still-love-me-gwayne-hightower-x-ofc-1?source=share Previous Chapter
Chapter Summary: The tourney commences. Rhaella was reunited with her cousin and her guise as a minstrel was short lived.
Chapter Rating/Trigger Warning for the chapter: Teen and up audiences, non-graphic description of violence (they're in a tourney)
Note: I finally had a rough draft on how things will go in the story. It’s a slow burn as I mentioned and it looked like I might need to turn it into a trilogy if people still reads this. The first part (WYSLM) will have around eight or so chapters. I try to be fateful to the canon but I have to tweak up some details to make it work in the fic. Thank you for the kudos and reblogs from the previous chapter. I really appreciate it. Hope you enjoy this one!
@deniixlovezelda @loverslikeghosts
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Sunlight stretched across the field, once barren but now vibrant with a multitude of tents adorned with colorful banners bearing the coats of arms of the competing knights and noble houses. As the dew evaporated from the grass and the morning birds serenaded the new day, the arena buzzed with life. Spectators filled the stands, the clamor of preparations mingling with the excitement in the air.
Rhaella had hurriedly left the Red Keep as soon as she broke her fast, despite Princess Rhaenyra’s insistence that she stay in bed until the babe arrived. Dressed in a full-length gown of bronze and black, with intricate red embroidery, she made her way to the Royce tent. Her eyes danced over the elaborate designs of the Great Houses' tents, a stark contrast to the simpler attire of the smaller houses. The sounds of clanking metal, neighing horses, hushed conversations, and the occasional burst of laughter created a lively backdrop.
Finding the Royce tent was easy; its bronze fabric with black iron studs and the flag proudly displaying their sigil made it unmistakable. She lifted the flap and stepped inside, her gaze quickly taking in the unfamiliar faces. Two men stood by—one older, and the other around her age—while the only familiar face was that of her cousin, fully armored.
“Willam!” She greeted him with a broad smile, noting the similarity in their dark hair and shared features.
“Rhaella.” His voice was warm, and he welcomed her with an embrace. “You’ve grown up so much since I last saw you.”
She stepped back, her eyes assessing the changes in him. “And you’re a knight now. I’m impressed.”
Willam stood tall with a grin. “You should hear the tales of my exploits, cousin.”
She bit her lip, stifling a laugh. “I can only imagine the heroic stories you’ve accumulated.”
“Where is Ser Qarl?” He gestured to a boy, who promptly fetched chairs from the corner.
“I sent him to wait in the arena. He’s doing his duty well as my protector,” she assured him, wary of whom she could trust in King’s Landing, a place teeming with intrigue.
The boy arranged the chairs, and Willam addressed him. “Make sure my steed is ready, Allard.”
The older man bowed and left, while the boy returned to polishing Willam’s helm.
“How is Runestone?” Rhaella inquired as she took a seat opposite her cousin. Leaving home had been hard, but it comforted her to know it was in capable hands.
“Still standing, my lady. Leowyn is managing things efficiently in your absence.”
Relief washed over her, but concern quickly followed. “And Uncle Gerold? I haven’t heard from him in weeks. Is he aiding Leowyn?”
Willam’s expression grew serious. “He’s been occupied with the Hilltribes near the Gates of the Moon. Last I heard, they were driven back near Kingsroad.”
A worried look crossed Rhaella’s face, but she had a smile to cover it. “I’ll return to Runestone after my name day. I’m eager to help in any way I can. I miss the Vale.”
“You’ve missed the Vale, and not your charming cousin?” Willam’s smirk was playful, aimed at lightening the mood.
Rhaella laughed, her eyes sparkling. “Of course, I miss you too, but King’s Landing is so different from home.”
“We all miss your presence at Runestone. We look forward to your return,” he said earnestly.
The blare of trumpets and the roar of the crowd signaled the start of the tourney. Their conversation halted as they both stood.
Looking up at Willam, Rhaella placed a hand on his shoulder, her eyes brimming with pride. “I bid you good fortune in the tourney, Ser Willam.”
“Thank you, my Lady.” Willam bowed gracefully.
With a playful smirk, Rhaella added, “Show them what a Royce is made of.”
“I shall do my best not to disappoint,” he replied with a grin.
As Rhaella prepared to leave the tent, she froze. Her heart raced as she caught sight of Ser Gwayne Hightower on his steed, his gaze sweeping over the crowd. Instinctively, she ducked back inside the tent, her hand clutching her chest.
Willam’s concerned voice broke her reverie. “Lady Rhaella, is everything alright?”
Turning sharply, she met his worried gaze. Hesitation marked her tone. “It’s—it’s that Hightower knight.”
Willam’s eyes widened slightly as he opened the tent’s flap to scan the field. “Ser Gwayne Hightower? Are you hiding from him?” He closed the flap and returned to her.
Her fingers fidgeted, and she avoided his eyes. “He might have a reason to suspect that I’m a minstrel.”
Willam’s lips twitched in amusement. “Pray tell, dear cousin?”
Rhaella hesitated, her mouth opening and closing as she searched for the right words. Finally, she sighed. “Long story short, I needed money.”
Willam’s snort was barely restrained. “You needed money? And you chose to become a traveling bard?”
“I was training near the Roseroad. Ser Qarl and I needed to eat but had little coin.” Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she reasoned to him.
Willam’s amusement faded. “Just the two of you in the woods?”
Rhaella straightened, her voice defensive. “In King’s Landing, they don’t train ladies in combat. I use riding as an excuse, and Ser Qarl helps me practice.”
Willam’s tone grew serious. “It’s dangerous, Rhaella. People might start whispering about you and your sworn sword.”
She met his gaze firmly. “We’re not far from King’s Landing, and Ser Qarl is loyal. He’d never act dishonorably. You know that.”
Willam shook his head, sighing. “I’m not questioning either of you, but you’re the heir to Runestone. You need to be cautious.”
Rhaella’s expression softened with understanding. “If I’m to defend and rule Runestone, I need more than just words and courtesy. I’ll be careful, cousin.” She nodded in agreement.
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The stands buzzed with excitement as lords, ladies, and smallfolk alike filled the seats, eager to cheer for their champions. The vibrant colors of the banners fluttered in the breeze, and the noise of anticipation mingled with the occasional burst of laughter. Rhaella, having missed the early matches, finally made her way to the royal box.
King Viserys and Queen Alicent turned to her as she approached. “Where have you been? You nearly missed House Royce’s turn,” the King inquired, a hint of reproach in his voice.
“My apologies, Your Grace,” Rhaella replied softly as she took her seat beside Lord Corlys and Princess Rhaenys. “Princess, My Lord” she greeted them with a nod before turning her attention to the arena. The royal box was filled with the royal family, save for the toddlers and Princess Rhaenyra, who was resting as advised by the Maesters. Behind them, the small council lords occupied their seats.
A flutter of anxiety gripped her. What if Ser Gwayne doesn’t recognize me at all? After all, I’m not in my usual attire, and my hair is styled differently. The gods must be merciful if that’s the case.
Down in the arena, Ser Willam Royce charged against a knight from House Bettley. With a resounding clash, Willam’s lance struck his opponent’s helmet, though the opposing knight managed a hit on Willam’s shoulder. Despite the blow, Willam remained steadfast on his stallion, while his competitor was thrown to the ground. The crowd erupted in cheers, and Rhaella clapped with enthusiasm. Willam was announced the victor, and the arena cleared for the next match.
Her heart skipped a beat when the announcer declared the next bout would be between Ser Gwayne Hightower and Ser Erren Appleton. Rhaella held her breath, hoping for a distraction or change of fate.
Before the match began, Ser Gwayne Hightower guided his steed toward the royal box, his visor raised and a grin playing on his lips. “For the Lady Rhaella Targaryen,” he called out, his voice carrying across the arena. “Her beauty is an inspiration to minstrels. May I have this favor?” He raised his lance, the sun glinting off its metal.
Rhaella felt the eyes of everyone in the box, especially the Queen, on her. “Ser Gwayne,” she said, her voice steady as she accepted the ribbon and flower. Despite her irritation, she managed a polite smile as she fastened the favor to his lance.
Their gazes locked, and for a heartbeat, the world seemed to narrow to just the two of them. The cheers of the crowd and the scrutiny of the royal box faded into the background. Her pulse quickened, but she forced herself to remain composed, even as her lips tightened into a thin line.
As Ser Gwayne resumed his position and lowered his visor, the match commenced. Rhaella watched intently, her eyes tracking his every move. Despite her disdain for the Hightower, she couldn’t deny his skill. His strikes were precise, unhorsing his opponents with apparent ease. Each victory was followed by a growing sense of frustration and begrudging admiration from her something she won’t admit openly.
When the matches paused for an intermission, Rhaella headed toward the edge of the tourney grounds, planning to catch up with her cousin. But fate had other plans. Ser Gwayne appeared, his stride confident and his eyes twinkling with amusement. He approached her with a smirk.
“Lady Targaryen,” he greeted, bowing slightly, though his tone was more teasing than respectful. “I should thank you. Your favor seems to have brought me good fortune.”
Rhaella raised an eyebrow, her voice without warmth “Perhaps you should. I’m sure it was entirely my favor that kept you from falling off your horse.”
Gwayne chuckled, nodding. “It’s possible my skill had something to do with it,” he said, “but your favor certainly didn’t hurt. I must admit, you’ve surprised me, Lady Targaryen. I hadn’t expected a minstrel to secure a place at the royal box.”
“And you were too eager to believe that’s all I am,” Rhaella retorted, her shoulders lifting in a nonchalant shrug.
Leaning in slightly, his voice dropped to a conspiratorial whisper. “You’re not as discreet as you think, my lady. A lady hiding behind a minstrel’s guise?” He clicked his tongue in mock disapproval.
Rhaella stiffened, her discomfort barely concealed. She forced a polite smile, her eyes narrowing slightly. “Is it praise you seek, Ser Gwayne? Surely winning a few matches should be sufficient.”
Gwayne’s smile widened, his gaze lingering on her. “Victory is sweeter when noticed by those who appreciate it. You were watching closely, weren’t you?”
A flicker of annoyance crossed her face. Her lips curled into a smile yet her eyes were set ablazed, it reminded Ser Gwayne of Rhaella’s father. “I was watching the tourney, Ser Gwayne, just as everyone else was. You simply happened to be part of it.”
“And yet, you seem to be quite invested in my performance. Perhaps you enjoy the thrill of seeing me unhorse my opponents or is there something more?” Gwayne replied smoothly.
Her nose crinkled in the accusation. “I watch the tourney to appreciate the fine display of skill by knights. Your victories are impressive, but hardly a matter of personal concern to me.”
“You agree, it is impressive?” Gwayne’s grin widened, finding satisfaction with the reaction he was stirring within her. “And yet, you seem to be quite engrossed. It’s as if you are here to support me and not your own House.”
Rhaella never saw a reason to detest the Hightowers until Gwayne. The Queen has been dutiful to the King and despite her aloofness, she was kind to her and let her play with her children. “Your confidence in yourself is admirable, Ser. You have more rounds to win, after all. It would be a shame if you were to lose.”
“I will certainly do well with the favor you bestow upon me,” he replied. The silence stretched between them as he gave her a slight bow. “Until the next round, then, Lady Targaryen.”
“Ser Gwayne.” She curtsied, her eyes following him as he walked away. Enjoy your victory until you can.
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Back in the royal box, Queen Alicent sat beside King Viserys who was busy conversing with Lord Corlys and the other Lords in the small council. The discussion of their favorite knights from the tourney was the main subject of their chattering.
Queen Alicent caught sight of her brother, and the unmistakable Heir of Runestone. Worry etched on her face, trying to decipher what the two could be talking about. Her fingers tapped the chair, watching Gwayne smiled at Rhaella. How did Gwayne know her? She has not been in Court when he last visited the Capitol, and she was with Gwayne since he arrived yesterday.
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Lady Lynora Lannister
Lynora Lannister: A lady raised by harsh Septas, away from courtly life, brought to the bustling court of King Viserys by the Lannisters to serve as lady-in-waiting to Princess Helaena Targaryen, and secretly offered as potential mistress to Prince Aemond Targaryen.
pairings –
Helaena Targaryen x Good Female Friendship. Lynora Lannister was brought to the castle to serve the "strange" young princess. Queen Alicent banished dozens of ladies from court, tasking servants to report any forked tongue gossip about her poor, sweet, Helaena, straight to the Queen's bedchamber.
Aemond Targaryen x OC Female, raised lowborn. Lannisters are always there to serve the crown, offering the young Lady up to the Prince as a potential play-thing. All young men needed to blow off steam, the Lannisters knew, and who better than someone the Prince can belittle, berate, curse and abused than some classless girl.
other story ocs
mission statement –
Let’s turn Westeros into the girlhood centric sadbae YA novel of our dreams ✨
character information –
Lady Lynora Lannister was born to the third son of Lord Lannister, Warden of the West and a daughter of Lord Mullendore of the Uplands in the Reach. House Mullendore had made their recent fortunes in bountiful cattle farming throughout their lands. House Mullendore is very generous to their smallfolk, allowing many to collect impressive sums for their hard work in the fields.
The current Lord Mullendore was raised too softly, knowing nothing of hardship and struggle, surviving each winter with no inconveniences. Lord and Lady Mullendore had many children, and lost most. Always too far gone into their cups, they lost track of the alliances and marriages of their children. The announcement of their daughter’s marriage to the Lord Leon Lannister, a widower twice over already, was hurried after a passionate tournament week celebrating the King’s daughter. The announcement of her death was quiet, between the lines of Leon Lannister’s new engagement.
Lynora’s mother died a few days after giving birth. The daughter that was left angered Leon, what a waste. She was sent the way of many Lannister bastards, into the care of the Faith of the Seven.
Lyn was raised by Septas in a Motherhouse, under their watchful patron, The Maiden, commonly referred to as a “Maidenhouse”. The Septas taught unwanted girls life skills, to learn to support themselves in the world. They work hard, tilling the fields, and practicing a trade to sell at the nearby town markets. It is whispered about that the Maiden’s Motherhouse was a place known to house bastards of Noble Houses, for those too kind to end the child, but not kind enough to bring them into their House. The unwanted girl’s dreamed of their possible sisters and cousins, finding small similarities in looks and actions, all in search of a family. Some girls formed their own families.
Much like its name, The banks of The Bite was a rough place to live. The banks of The Bite are where The North, The Riverlands and The Vale meet. The Bite is a rural area East of The Twins, along the Kingsroad.
The Maidenhouse was known to take in all kinds of young girls. Some girls were taken by force, abducted by honorable Knights from their Hilltribes or Wildling clans. Other girls showed up in gilded carriages, with sacks of gold in tribute. Most are dropped off at the gates, in worn baskets and tattered blankets. It is hard to remember how one came to the Maidenhouse, unless the Septas enjoy holding it against you.
Lyn assumed she was just another orphan girl, just another one of the wild mosaic of children the Septas tried to control with pain and fear. Fear of the gods, fear of the rod, fear of the pitiful future they were all to endure.
The winters were hard, some near impossible. Donations stall, the fields barren, the girls more unwanted than ever. One winter, when foraging for wood, Lyn and a group of friends were abducted by a Hilltribe and held captive until summer. She will keep this secret from her noble family, if her virtue was ever called into question, she would surely be forced to marry an old, wealthy lord that no one else would have.
Lyn has a hard time adapting to noble!speak, using lowborn vocabulary such as “m’lady/m’lord”, and having terrible manners.
She was born with a prominent birthmark on her face, under her eye. For ooc story purposes, it will make her easier to “track” through a system of unwanted girls, the Lannister/Mullendoren family will know for certain it is really her and not some pretender. In the story, she will be given some nasty name to be known through the Kingdom, dealing with her face.
When meeting Lord Layrs Strong, he is annoyed Lyn assumed the Tully’s ruled the Riverlands. She only knew of house banners that donated food to the children of the Maidenhouse and she had never seen House Strong’s sigil.
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