Fandom ñuha jorrāeliarzy || social & fabledfelix

[social]

MEET RHAENYRA

Rhaenyra Targaryen, Princess of Dragonstone and heir to the Iron Throne. The first-born of Viserys I Targaryen and Aemma Targaryen, she was named the heir to the Iron Throne when she was 15 years old, a title that nobody expected her to hold. As princess and heir, her position made it so she had to secure a husband and prepare herself for securing her line to the throne. After she turned 18, she began a tour to find a suitable match, but to no avail. With her father and stepmother's pressure building, it did not take long before her father decided who she was to marry. Ser Laenor Velaryon, the first-born of Corlys Velaryon and Rhaenys Velaryon. But there was an unfortunate twist to this marriage. Laenor was unable to produce a proper heir, much less marriage with Rhaenyra. Some say his tastes strayed from his lady-wife. Now in a hopeless situation with pointed stares and whispered words following her, Rhaenyra only has one choice. She must secure her own future by whatever means necessary.

MEET HARWIN

Ser Harwin "Breakbones" Strong, eldest son of the Hand and heir of Lord Lyonel Strong of Harrenhal. Previously a knight of House Strong, he was appointed to the City Watch and became the sworn shield of Princess Rhaenyra after her wedding to Laenor Velaryon. This position came with a reputation, whispers that followed him around the Red Keep, mostly originating from the Kingsguard as they passed by the Gold Cloak stationed outside of the princess's chambers. Was he to be entangled in the spider's web? Nobody knew for certain. As the strongest knight in all the Seven Kingdoms, nobody dared to push Harwin, afraid that he would prove why he was called Breakbones. But nobody could deny the friendship he had with the princess, often escorting her and her husband Laenor on rides and hunts. However, Harwin seems to care little for whispers of court. He has a job to do, and he plans on continuing to serve the princess and protect her from harm.

MEET DAEMON

Prince Daemon Targaryen, the Rogue Prince, the Lord of Flea Bottom, the youngest son of Baelon Targaryen and Alyssa Targaryen, and the younger brother of King Viserys I Targaryen. He has always been an uncontrollable force, like that of a dragon itself. He takes what he wants and does whatever he pleases. But after years of a difficult and strained relationship with the crown, he mended that with a marriage to Lady Laena Velaryon. It was blissful and fruitful, providing him with twin daughters named Baela and Rhaena. Currently staying within Pentos to raise his daughters with his lady-wife, Daemon has yet to return to King's Landing and only sends ravens on occasion. But he knows that if things were to go arise in Pentos, he would always have a place beside his brother.

MEET THEANNA

Lady Theanna Blackwood of House Blackwood, younger sister of Lord Samwell Blackwood of Raventree Hall, and older sister of Ser Willem Blackwood. The widowed wife of Ser Orwen Tully, and mother to the deceased young Ellion Tully. She has since returned to her home in Raventree Hall where she serves her brother and her House. Years have passed since the tragic deaths of her husband and son, and she has yet to remarry, something that she has shown little interest in. Quelling conflicts within the Riverlands and with the Brackens is her main priority. Ambitious and determined to help her House brave any storm that comes to pass, she has been keeping an eye out for an advantageous marriage that will benefit House Blackwood.

THE SETTING

Set after the marriage of Rhaenyra and Laenor, the princess found herself in a difficult position. Her husband, grieving the death and absence of his lover, has been unable to perform his duties and provide Rhaenyra with any security. Months have passed and there are whispers throughout the Red Keep, mostly pertaining to the lack of 'condition' the princess is in. Frustrated, Rhaenyra has been struggling to come up with a solution, with little assistance from Laenor who has busied himself with training among knights, drinking, and more recently, purchasing rather fine horses for rides and hunts. Because of this lack of progress, Rhaenyra decided that she would find a suitable match to provide her and Laenor with what they needed. But she would not make the same mistake as she did before her marriage. No. This would be without attachment and feelings, it would be for the future of the Realm.

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[fabledfelix]

harwin

breakbones

It was a perfect morning for a hunt; the cooler temperature and misty rain from last night had formed dew droplets on nearly every surface, and judging by the appearance of the sunrise, the weather should be favourable today. This provided the perfect conditions to encourage the fauna to graze out in the open, thus increasing the odds of returning with a kill.

Harwin returned his attention to his bow as he finished preparing the weapon by running a stick of wax along the string. He wrapped up the wax and returned it to the small pocket on the quiver that it came from before running his index finger and thumb along the string to help work some of the wax into the material. Once he was satisfied, he stepped down from a feed cart stationed outside of the stables then passed his head and right arm through the grip and string of the bow in order to wear it on his back. Next, he picked up the quiver of arrows and strapped it to his belt on the right side of his body before stepping into the stables.

Just as he expected, one of the stable boys already brought two horses out of their stalls and was allowing them to eat some grain out of separate buckets as he finished tacking them up. The boy's head popped up from behind the princess' horse after tightening the cinch strap of the saddle, dipping his head slightly to acknowledge his presence. "Good morning, sir. The horses should be ready for you now."

The stable boy, Markus, was a young but capable lad of nearly four and ten and was the sort of person Harwin would have taken to be his squire if time was in his favour. However, his priorities had become quickly entwined with the princess, leaving little space to take on the responsibility of raising a squire to knighthood. Despite this, Harwin did his best to acknowledge any noticeable skill improvement from Markus and any other ambitious young boys he encountered. With that in mind, he approached his own horse first, raising a hand to stroke the side of the gelding's neck. With the nearly complete chestnut coloured coat except for the white nose stripe and pasterns, his horse looked laughably ordinary compared to the princess' all-white mare.

Harwin inspected the reins and saddle, on a few different areas to check that they were fitted properly before moving on to Rhaenyra's horse. He took extra care to inspect the mare's tack more carefully, still tugging on the same spots as his gelding but also placing his hand under a few different areas around the saddle to make sure that the saddle was secure and wouldn't cause discomfort to the horse.

"Well done, Markus. It looks like everything fits as it should." He praised the boy with a warm grin, opened the small drawstring bag that hung from his belt and pulled out a silver stag before handing the coin to Markus.

"Thank you, sir!"

As soon as he connected a lead rope from the bridle of Rhaenyra's horse to the saddle of his own, Harwin mounted his horse and left the stables with the white mare in tow behind him.

The ride to the large double doors of the Red Keep only took a few minutes and he dismounted when he came near a pair of guards, passing the control of his horse's reins to one of the men. "Keep an eye on these two while I fetch the princess, won't you?" Harwin delegated with a smug grin, exchanging a glance with the guard before he pressed on beyond the doors and entered the castle. He walked swiftly down the halls —more out of habit than any true urgency— and finally reached the door of Rhaenyra's room.

Harwin knocked on the door a few times and said, "I have the horses ready for us outside, princess."

He could hear a familiar voice on the other side of the door but couldn't make out any specific words. However, the door was cracked open only a moment later by Elinda, one of her ladies-in-waiting who confirmed his identity with her own eyes before she continued to open the door wide enough to allow him to step into the room. As Harwin entered the bed chamber, his gaze immediately landed on Rhaenyra who seemed to be receiving the finishing touches of hairdressing by a second servant. Although he understood that she was the heir to the Iron Throne, the sight of her both amused and fascinated him as his mind began to spin at the thought of how much her current outfit was worth, even though it was far from the most exquisite he had seen her in.

"I'm sure the deer will appreciate the red silk, Your Highness." He teased with a smirk, leaning his back against the wall and crossing his arms as he waited for Rhaenyra to finish getting ready.

It was his idea to bring her along on a hunt in the king's forest to escape the melancholic atmosphere within the Red Keep, here he hoped he could help at least partially lift her spirits. Despite not being at her side for very long, it was clear at least to him that your father marrying your childhood friend combined with a murder disrupting the fragile hope of your own wedding wouldn't serve anyone well at all.

 

[social]

rhaenyra

Pale curtains were quietly pulled to the side and gently secured so that they would not block the small pieces of light that were creeping into the room. The sun was barely climbing in the sky, the morning mist still sitting heavily in the air. It looked like it was rather cold outside, but for the woman sitting in the chair, her head slightly tilted, the world beyond the glass panes was refreshing and desirable. A sigh left her as she closed her eyes for a moment, an expression of slight boredom and regret visible on her fair features. “Mornings without Syrax are quite dull.” Her normal routine had rather unfortunately been interrupted in various ways since her marriage. Often it included audiences with her father and stepmother, both throwing disapproving gazes her way as she could not control her husband. It was not her fault. She had tried.

But still, he did what he wanted, despite any chastising or protest from Rhaenyra. She learned quite quickly that any influence she could’ve possessed was easily drowned out by grief and anger. She couldn’t blame him. The sufferings he endured were more than she had gone through. A small cut was nothing compared to the brutal heap of flesh and blood that he had engraved into his mind and heart. Still, selfishly, Rhaenyra could not help but feel anger and a sense of jealousy towards Laenor. Just as quickly as they were married, he disappeared without warning for a week to Driftmark, leaving her behind to make up stories and defend her husband. Even upon his drunken return, things did not improve beyond a few weeks of friendship. He continued to busy himself while she was confined to the scrutinization and whispers of court, unable to breathe without worry.

“Is Ser Laenor accompanying you today princess?” Elinda’s gentle voice pulled Rhaenyra back to reality as the woman’s fingers effortlessly styled her hair, pulling any stray pieces away from her face. She was a kind and loyal friend, a rarity for Rhaenyra. She appreciated her company and support. However, she wasn’t foolish enough to think that Elinda believed the act that Laenor and Rhaenyra put on for court. She was positive that the brunette understood the troubles the couple was facing, though neither would dare voice such a thing. “It is rare for you not to ride Syrax in the morning so I was curious if he had made plans for you both.”

A soft sigh escaped Rhaenyra once again as she ran her thumb across her nails, carefully inspecting them as if they were actually of interest. “No, Ser Laenor will not be accompanying me this morning. Rather Ser Harwin has offered to take me on a hunt as I have been longing for fresh air and a break from court. I do believe my husband is otherwise occupied or he would go with us of course.” Another lie. Well at least partially. It was true that Harwin had offered to take her out on a morning hunt, but Laenor had not been offered an invitation. He was most likely drowning in cups and swords and she did not want to be around that. The complaints he had if she pulled him away from such engagements often gave her a headache.

Her second lady-in-waiting, Sarisa approached carrying boots and gloves for Rhaenyra. Without fuss, the princess put her boots on and tightened the laces with ease, having preferred to do such a thing herself. As she kept her gaze fixed on the laces held in her fingers, she could feel the unease and sympathy practically radiating off the two women. It was rather depressing she was sure. A Targaryen princess with a husband who did not care for her company. It was rather funny. It wasn’t like they hadn’t tried. The times that they had attempted to be a proper husband and wife resulted in anger and tears, unable to fix what could never fit together. So while they could do little to remedy that form of a marital relationship, they did their best to be friends and to look happy on the outside. They would share their beds, go on hunts or rides together, and fly their dragons across the quiet skies of King’s Landing, but it did not help. Any progress they made was quickly undone by the presence of Queen Alicent and her loyal guard or by malicious rumors.

Laenor did not have the stomach for it. But she again could not blame him. The frustration and panic that were voiced in private day after day stayed hidden behind closed doors and often fell on tired ears. “What would you have me do? I cannot fix this! I have tried! I cannot be what you want! Why can't you understand?” His exasperated tone the last time they argued had pushed Rhaenyra into a state of feeling alone and adrift at sea. She could not say anything in return. She could not do anything. So she held her head high and braved the whispers that chased her about the castle. The heated gaze of the Queen seared her skin whenever she was around her, the look of contempt and a sense of envy made her skin crawl. It seeped out of Alicent every time they were in proximity to each other and she couldn’t do anything about it. And by her side stood the face that she had once felt affection toward.

But those dark eyes no longer held the warmth and adventure that she often observed, instead, they burned with hate and malice. Every time she looked at him, she felt her blood chill in her body and the hair stand on the back of her neck. The flashes of memory would flood forward, causing that frightful night to play over and over again. She could see the blood and matter that clung to his fists and face as he relentlessly beat the boy. She could taste the iron that hung in the air. It was all nauseating, to say the least. And that made her angry. Why were they able to make her feel so small and targeted when they had done so many unforgivable things?

“Do not worry, Ser Harwin has been my guide many times and perhaps is at times, better company than my dear husband. I’m afraid he longs for the sea and ships, not forests and nature. I would rather let my husband enjoy his prior engagements than force him to accompany me today.” Rhaenyra lifted her head as she smiled at the two women, wanting to ease their worries and perhaps any rumors that would spark when those within the keep saw that she was without her husband. She chose to ignore the pity and sympathy at every turn. Whenever her sheets were changed and the slight hesitation the maids had as they looked at the linen, Rhaenyra ignored it. She turned her back on it all. She didn’t want it. Not anymore. She was doing her best. Why wasn’t that good enough?

Before a reply or another question could leave Elinda, strong knocks echoed throughout the room, causing both ladies to turn toward the source, waiting for the visitor to announce themselves. "I have the horses ready for us outside, princess."

“Let him in, I’m dressed.” Harwin’s voice was unmistakable, but still, Sarisa moved to Rhaenyra’s side to finish braiding her hair while Elinda went to the door to let the guard in. The girl pulled the door open, its hinges squealing slightly as she eyed the tall man on the other side. She said nothing before opening the door completely, allowing him to enter the princess’s chambers, and shutting it after he was inside. Rhaenyra and Laenor were both rather careful about who was able to be within their chambers or listen to their conversations, which in turn made their servants and assistants wary as well.

“Ser Harwin.” turning her head to look at the brunette, Rhaenyra smiled at him politely, still seated in her chair as Sarisa began tying off the end of her braid. The somewhat sarcastic remark from her guard made her polite smile turn more genuine as she stood up and approached the man, raising an eyebrow at him in question. “I am to hunt Ser, but I do not need to appear underdressed.” As she spoke, the princess made her way towards her guard, her mood improving rather quickly. Rhaenyra was someone who took great pride in her appearance, making sure to always look her best and keep up with trends she found interesting and inspiring. She always stood out among a crowd and she planned to keep it that way. “Plus, I think such attire would tell any beast that I am to be feared. Is that not the point of a hunt?” She did not encroach on his space too much but still stood her ground, despite the severe height difference, a surprisingly friendly spark in her eyes.

Harwin had hastily been appointed her guard after the mess with Cole had transpired, and despite any resistance or hesitation she may have had, the man did not do anything to cause unease for her. Rather he had been a comfort to her during a time when she felt trapped and hopeless. He allowed her to get away with things that many would chastise or tell her father about, not to mention he kept up with her level of wit and humor. He did not press on any issues and for that she was grateful. Briefly looking back at Elinda and Sarisa, Rhaenyra nodded her head, silently excusing the women to go about their business. “Well then, shall we?” Emerging from her chambers with Harwin, she followed the man, her gaze sweeping across familiar faces as they walked through the halls.

She was sure that she would hear some rather coarse remarks from the queen about going on a morning hunt, but she didn’t really care. She would be far away by the time the queen awoke and would be roaming the halls. She wanted fresh air and an escape from those eager to see what their princess would do next. “I must say, I was not expecting a hunt to be what you suggested. I assumed it would be something more… fitting of a princess.” Her voice was heavy with sarcasm at the end as she made a gesture toward herself as if mocking her status as a princess. However, she couldn’t help but smile at the brief thought of a man such as him suggesting to embroider a pillow with her. She would’ve laughed in his face, she was sure of that.

But in truth, she was rather surprised by the suggestion of going out on a hunt alone. She was never approached for something like that, it was always to accompany her husband or father when they hunted. Since Aegon’s Second Nameday, it seemed like she was not welcomed in such chases. Her father barely enjoyed her obsession with riding Syrax so early in the morning, especially after she had been wed, and she doubted he would be pleased that she was going out with her guard rather than Laenor. And she was sure he would be rather flustered when her husband undoubtedly would return to the Keep hungover and unaware of where his lady-wife was.

However, Viserys usually hid his displeasure and instead chose to focus on the positives. She loved her father dearly and she valued his opinions but he was blind to those who wished her harm and instead preached love and security. But what security was there for Rhaenyra when her husband could not perform and her stepmother had supplied Viserys with what he always wanted, a son? Toward that boy, she could not help but feel unease whenever he looked at her or went over to Alicent to whisper something to her. She had stopped bonding with him and her half-sister promptly after her wedding. There was no point. She could feel the poison that their mother whispered about their older sister and she did not want to involve herself. Not more than she was expected to.

A soft exhale left Rhaenyra as they exited the castle and the crisp air ran across her face and hands, filling her lungs, allowing the anxieties and worries to leave as she exhaled. Pulling her gloves over her hands, the princess made her way over to her mare, a beloved animal that had been a gift on her name day years prior. Shrykos, she had named her, in a similar fashion to Syrax, she represented Rhaenyra’s interest in the Old Gods and her heritage. Leather-covered fingers ran across the large mare’s neck as she greeted her with sweet and quiet words before she mounted her, gathering her reins in her hands. “Ser Harwin.” she awaited the guard’s lead, prepared to follow him to wherever he intended to take her.

coded by social

Spoiler: Uncoded

Pale curtains were quietly pulled to the side and gently secured so that they would not block the small pieces of light that were creeping into the room. The sun was barely climbing in the sky, the morning mist still sitting heavily in the air. It looked like it was rather cold outside, but for the woman sitting in the chair, her head slightly tilted, the world beyond the glass panes was refreshing and desirable. A sigh left her as she closed her eyes for a moment, an expression of slight boredom and regret visible on her fair features. “Mornings without Syrax are quite dull.” Her normal routine had rather unfortunately been interrupted in various ways since her marriage. Often it included audiences with her father and stepmother, both throwing disapproving gazes her way as she could not control her husband. It was not her fault. She had tried.

But still, he did what he wanted, despite any chastising or protest from Rhaenyra. She learned quite quickly that any influence she could’ve possessed was easily drowned out by grief and anger. She couldn’t blame him. The sufferings he endured were more than she had gone through. A small cut was nothing compared to the brutal heap of flesh and blood that he had engraved into his mind and heart. Still, selfishly, Rhaenyra could not help but feel anger and a sense of jealousy towards Laenor. Just as quickly as they were married, he disappeared without warning for a week to Driftmark, leaving her behind to make up stories and defend her husband. Even upon his drunken return, things did not improve beyond a few weeks of friendship. He continued to busy himself while she was confined to the scrutinization and whispers of court, unable to breathe without worry.

“Is Ser Laenor accompanying you today princess?” Elinda’s gentle voice pulled Rhaenyra back to reality as the woman’s fingers effortlessly styled her hair, pulling any stray pieces away from her face. She was a kind and loyal friend, a rarity for Rhaenyra. She appreciated her company and support. However, she wasn’t foolish enough to think that Elinda believed the act that Laenor and Rhaenyra put on for court. She was positive that the brunette understood the troubles the couple was facing, though neither would dare voice such a thing. “It is rare for you not to ride Syrax in the morning so I was curious if he had made plans for you both.”

A soft sigh escaped Rhaenyra once again as she ran her thumb across her nails, carefully inspecting them as if they were actually of interest. “No, Ser Laenor will not be accompanying me this morning. Rather Ser Harwin has offered to take me on a hunt as I have been longing for fresh air and a break from court. I do believe my husband is otherwise occupied or he would go with us of course.” Another lie. Well at least partially. It was true that Harwin had offered to take her out on a morning hunt, but Laenor had not been offered an invitation. He was most likely drowning in cups and swords and she did not want to be around that. The complaints he had if she pulled him away from such engagements often gave her a headache.

Her second lady-in-waiting, Sarisa approached carrying boots and gloves for Rhaenyra. Without fuss, the princess put her boots on and tightened the laces with ease, having preferred to do such a thing herself. As she kept her gaze fixed on the laces held in her fingers, she could feel the unease and sympathy practically radiating off the two women. It was rather depressing she was sure. A Targaryen princess with a husband who did not care for her company. It was rather funny. It wasn’t like they hadn’t tried. The times that they had attempted to be a proper husband and wife resulted in anger and tears, unable to fix what could never fit together. So while they could do little to remedy that form of a marital relationship, they did their best to be friends and to look happy on the outside. They would share their beds, go on hunts or rides together, and fly their dragons across the quiet skies of King’s Landing, but it did not help. Any progress they made was quickly undone by the presence of Queen Alicent and her loyal guard or by malicious rumors.

Laenor did not have the stomach for it. But she again could not blame him. The frustration and panic that were voiced in private day after day stayed hidden behind closed doors and often fell on tired ears. “What would you have me do? I cannot fix this! I have tried! I cannot be what you want! Why can't you understand?” His exasperated tone the last time they argued had pushed Rhaenyra into a state of feeling alone and adrift at sea. She could not say anything in return. She could not do anything. So she held her head high and braved the whispers that chased her about the castle. The heated gaze of the Queen seared her skin whenever she was around her, the look of contempt and a sense of envy made her skin crawl. It seeped out of Alicent every time they were in proximity to each other and she couldn’t do anything about it. And by her side stood the face that she had once felt affection toward.

But those dark eyes no longer held the warmth and adventure that she often observed, instead, they burned with hate and malice. Every time she looked at him, she felt her blood chill in her body and the hair stand on the back of her neck. The flashes of memory would flood forward, causing that frightful night to play over and over again. She could see the blood and matter that clung to his fists and face as he relentlessly beat the boy. She could taste the iron that hung in the air. It was all nauseating, to say the least. And that made her angry. Why were they able to make her feel so small and targeted when they had done so many unforgivable things?

“Do not worry, Ser Harwin has been my guide many times and perhaps is at times, better company than my dear husband. I’m afraid he longs for the sea and ships, not forests and nature. I would rather let my husband enjoy his prior engagements than force him to accompany me today.” Rhaenyra lifted her head as she smiled at the two women, wanting to ease their worries and perhaps any rumors that would spark when those within the keep saw that she was without her husband. She chose to ignore the pity and sympathy at every turn. Whenever her sheets were changed and the slight hesitation the maids had as they looked at the linen, Rhaenyra ignored it. She turned her back on it all. She didn’t want it. Not anymore. She was doing her best. Why wasn’t that good enough?

Before a reply or another question could leave Elinda, strong knocks echoed throughout the room, causing both ladies to turn toward the source, waiting for the visitor to announce themselves. "I have the horses ready for us outside, princess."

“Let him in, I’m dressed.” Harwin’s voice was unmistakable, but still, Sarisa moved to Rhaenyra’s side to finish braiding her hair while Elinda went to the door to let the guard in. The girl pulled the door open, its hinges squealing slightly as she eyed the tall man on the other side. She said nothing before opening the door completely, allowing him to enter the princess’s chambers, and shutting it after he was inside. Rhaenyra and Laenor were both rather careful about who was able to be within their chambers or listen to their conversations, which in turn made their servants and assistants wary as well.

“Ser Harwin.” turning her head to look at the brunette, Rhaenyra smiled at him politely, still seated in her chair as Sarisa began tying off the end of her braid. The somewhat sarcastic remark from her guard made her polite smile turn more genuine as she stood up and approached the man, raising an eyebrow at him in question. “I am to hunt Ser, but I do not need to appear underdressed.” As she spoke, the princess made her way towards her guard, her mood improving rather quickly. Rhaenyra was someone who took great pride in her appearance, making sure to always look her best and keep up with trends she found interesting and inspiring. She always stood out among a crowd and she planned to keep it that way. “Plus, I think such attire would tell any beast that I am to be feared. Is that not the point of a hunt?” She did not encroach on his space too much but still stood her ground, despite the severe height difference, a surprisingly friendly spark in her eyes.

Harwin had hastily been appointed her guard after the mess with Cole had transpired, and despite any resistance or hesitation she may have had, the man did not do anything to cause unease for her. Rather he had been a comfort to her during a time when she felt trapped and hopeless. He allowed her to get away with things that many would chastise or tell her father about, not to mention he kept up with her level of wit and humor. He did not press on any issues and for that she was grateful. Briefly looking back at Elinda and Sarisa, Rhaenyra nodded her head, silently excusing the women to go about their business. “Well then, shall we?” Emerging from her chambers with Harwin, she followed the man, her gaze sweeping across familiar faces as they walked through the halls.

She was sure that she would hear some rather coarse remarks from the queen about going on a morning hunt, but she didn’t really care. She would be far away by the time the queen awoke and would be roaming the halls. She wanted fresh air and an escape from those eager to see what their princess would do next. “I must say, I was not expecting a hunt to be what you suggested. I assumed it would be something more… fitting of a princess.” Her voice was heavy with sarcasm at the end as she made a gesture toward herself as if mocking her status as a princess. However, she couldn’t help but smile at the brief thought of a man such as him suggesting to embroider a pillow with her. She would’ve laughed in his face, she was sure of that.

But in truth, she was rather surprised by the suggestion of going out on a hunt alone. She was never approached for something like that, it was always to accompany her husband or father when they hunted. Since Aegon’s Second Nameday, it seemed like she was not welcomed in such chases. Her father barely enjoyed her obsession with riding Syrax so early in the morning, especially after she had been wed, and she doubted he would be pleased that she was going out with her guard rather than Laenor. And she was sure he would be rather flustered when her husband undoubtedly would return to the Keep hungover and unaware of where his lady-wife was.

However, Viserys usually hid his displeasure and instead chose to focus on the positives. She loved her father dearly and she valued his opinions but he was blind to those who wished her harm and instead preached love and security. But what security was there for Rhaenyra when her husband could not perform and her stepmother had supplied Viserys with what he always wanted, a son? Toward that boy, she could not help but feel unease whenever he looked at her or went over to Alicent to whisper something to her. She had stopped bonding with him and her half-sister promptly after her wedding. There was no point. She could feel the poison that their mother whispered about their older sister and she did not want to involve herself. Not more than she was expected to.

A soft exhale left Rhaenyra as they exited the castle and the crisp air ran across her face and hands, filling her lungs, allowing the anxieties and worries to leave as she exhaled. Pulling her gloves over her hands, the princess made her way over to her mare, a beloved animal that had been a gift on her name day years prior. Shrykos, she had named her, in a similar fashion to Syrax, she represented Rhaenyra’s interest in the Old Gods and her heritage. Leather-covered fingers ran across the large mare’s neck as she greeted her with sweet and quiet words before she mounted her, gathering her reins in her hands. “Ser Harwin.” she awaited the guard’s lead, prepared to follow him to wherever he intended to take her.

 

[fabledfelix]

harwin

breakbones

Harwin mirrored the princess' expression with his own raised eyebrow as she challenged his commentary of her outfit choice. He studied her face as she approached, gradually learning to read her emotions to avoid offending her. He wanted to be different than the other thoughtless men who possessed the personality of flat ale... to be a worthy companion of the princess, yet he had no intention of acting out beyond his station.

A smirk grew on his face. "You cannot hunt prey that is too afeared to step out of the shadows." He said, his tone of voice reflecting that of a teacher instructing a pupil. Harwin knew that the main point of their outing wasn't to instruct her, but he couldn't always hold back his elder brother tendencies. More than anything, he was fascinated by the differences in upbringing between Rhaenyra and himself that went beyond royal versus subject. An activity such as hunting was probably one of the first outings he went on with his father as a young child, and yet for Rhaenyra it seemed to be a distant concept. Such was the difference in possessing either a sword or a sheath at birth, he reasoned.

When she called to him as she stepped toward the large wooden doors, he obediently followed Rhaenyra out of her chambers. With his hands clasped together behind his back, he walked at ease next to her, finding that he had to intentionally slow his steps in order to not walk ahead of her. Hearing her say that she was surprised by his choice of outing, an amused breath escaped through his nose.

"I can assure you, princess, you would not want to see my attempt at embroidery. I can feel my grandmother turning in her grave at only the mention of it." He snickered, having amused himself with the mental imagery of it, leading him to feel grateful that Rhaenyra wasn't a 'typical' highborn woman. If that was the case he most likely would have been stuck inside, attempting to pass the time by counting how many leaves were engraved onto the surface of her cabinet.

Harwin's amusement was brought to heel the moment his father rounded the corner of the corridor, coming face-to-face with the princess and his son. The older man was caught off guard and perhaps even a little spooked to have run into another person in the halls at this hour, but he soon composed himself and offered a short bow to Rhaenyra.

"You're up quite early this morning, Your Highness. I hope my son wasn't the catalyst..." At his last words, Lyonel's gaze shifted to Harwin, already suspecting him of doing so even without Rhaenyra's confirmation.

Harwin sauntered over to his father and placed a hand on his shoulder which caused the older, out of shape man to lean further to one side. "The princess requested I take her hunting for a stag to strengthen the Queen's constitution before her labours. I'm sure you know that daybreak is often the best time for a hunt." Harwin said, giving his father a few pats on the shoulder before walking past him and continuing down the corridor with Rhaenyra in tow. He had a sense that everyone including his father knew that what he just said was part of a white lie, knowing that none of them were sympathetic to the Hightowers, but it was important to maintain civility as one never knew who may be listening in on conversations within the castle.

He let out a small sigh of relief when they finally exited through the main doors of the Red Keep, happy to see his horse Rous waiting for him in the courtyard. Harwin approached Rous, patting him a few times on the side of his neck before gripping onto the pommel of the saddle and mounting Rous. As he took hold of the reins and turned around, he saw that Rhaenyra was ready to head out.

"Shall we test her speed?" He shot the princess a smirk, waiting until they passed through the gates before clicking his tongue and digging his heels into Rous' sides, sending his horse into a gallop. He glanced behind him to ensure Rhaenyra was not only following him but that Shrykos was also able to keep up. He then flicked the reins and kicked Rous to further increase his speed and allow him a few moments of much needed excercise before gradually pulling back on the reins to slow Rous down until he was riding alongside Rhaenyra.

Frustrated from the short amount of time spent galloping, Rous let out a snort and tried to speed up on his own, but Harwin pulled back harder on the reigns and wrapped one loop around his fist to give him more direct control. "I think he wants to show off more than me." He commented with a chuckle, glancing over at Rhaenyra before returning his attention ahead of them as the pair approached the gate of the enclosed kingswood.

Wanting to maintain control of his mischievous horse, he remained on his saddle and plucked an arrow out of his quiver, directing Rous close enough to the gate before reaching forward and unlatching the lock. He then used his foot to kick the gate open and pulled Rous back from the gate before offering the woman an overdramatic bow that nearly looked as though Harwin was laying flat over Rous' neck. "Princesses first, Your Highness."

Once Rhaenyra entered through the gate, Harwin followed closely after her and caught up once again to be riding parallel to each other. Now that they were within the dedicated hunting grounds of the kingswood, he began to tune his senses to his surroundings, including watching both Rous and Shrykos' behaviour for any sign of nearby game. Although he hadn't spotted any wildlife yet, he reached around his back and slowly pulled his bow up and over his head, trying to make as little sound as possible as he moved to hold the bow in front of him with one hand and grip onto Rous' reins with the other hand.

"I should bring you to Harrenhal one day. Dare I say the grounds and especially the forest are much more vast... many say haunted. That is if you're not too busy with your royal duties, of course..." He said in a low voice, shooting a look at Rhaenyra before continuing to observe the surrounding forest.


social

 

[social]

rhaenyra

“Surely you jest Ser.” An amused smile formed on her lips as she gently pressed her heels into the sides of her mare, her fingers lightly gripping her reins. The promise of galloping through nature without worrying about court rumors or complaints sounded quite wonderful. As they passed through the gates, she lengthened her reins and pressed her left heel into Shyrkos before clucking twice, causing the white horse to break into a gallop, causing the wind to rush by as they ran. A brilliant smile decorated the princess’s face as she laughed, doing her best to stay close to Harwin and Rous so she did not accidentally veer off course.

The scenery passed in flashes as the pair sped down the path, dirt and pebbles flying in the wake of their horses, but it did not matter. The feeling of the wind on her skin, rushing past her ears, dulling the sounds of the world in a way that made her feel like all of her worries had been left far behind. The open fields of grass soon became littered with trees as they approached the entrance of the Kingswood, the lush green forest quietly awaiting them. Slowing Shyrkos down, Rhaenyra laughed breathlessly as she held her reins in one hand, the other brushing stray hairs away from her warmed face. “I do believe your father would’ve fainted from that display.” She wasn’t a fool, she could sense the rising tensions between all within the Red Keep. False smiles and pleasantries seemed to be the only thing spoken in her presence. Everyone seemed far too invested in her safety and well-being, more than normal, making her feel as if she was some delicate creature and that she was sure she wasn't.

The remark from the knight made her smile as she shook her head, raising an eyebrow slightly at him. “You both seem keen to show off. Though he does it more proudly I would say.” Rhaenyra ran her hand up the neck of her mare, chuckling quietly as Harwin skillfully opened the latched gate with the tip of an arrow, his foot quickly kicking it open with an unceremonious shriek from the gate as it flung open. The man bowed dramatically, his curls falling forward slightly, something that caught her eye for a moment before she looked away and guided her horse through the gate.

"Princesses first, Your Highness." Harwin's words were comfortable and easy as if the titles he spoke held little meaning while they were out there. She was acutely aware of their differences in status but going out on a ride like this, hunting deer in the Kingswood, there was no use for things like being a princess. Casual conversation was more interesting and fun for her, and that was her ultimate goal. To have fun, at least on her end.

“Though you do have a certain charm to your ways.” Rhaenyra navigated Shyrkos through the gate and allowed herself to take a moment to stretch her arms out, closing her eyes as she did so. Finally, she was away from all the stress that plagued her back at the Red Keep. Once satisfied, she gathered her reins and quietly followed the dark-haired man, trusting that he would know where to go in the Kingswood. She did not venture into them very often as she was usually far above them on the back of Syrax, making the most of her privilege as a Targaryen.

Her attention was quickly stolen by the mention of Harrenhal, mostly due to the fact she had only spent a small amount of time there during a royal tour, years prior. Leaning forward slightly, she turned her head, clearly interested in what he was talking about. Haunted forests, a castle that was molded by dragons and blood, well it was fascinating. The small quip about her being potentially too busy to go caused a sigh to escape her. “I would rather go there and deal with ghosts and curses than the horrors of court that await me. It truly is suffocating.” Sitting up properly, she looked around the dense woods, attempting to find an animal hiding in the vegetation.

“I enjoyed my visit before, though it was quite short. I would like to go again and get a proper tour of it, not one that my father arranged. Something that you schemed up would be more fitting I think.” A few small birds flew overhead and she smiled at the thought, knowing that it would be difficult to get permission to travel without being on tour. She had too much to do as an heir, though all of her duties seemed to be compacted into her simply producing her own heir. “Though I don’t believe I would be allowed to travel far, at least not in my current condition.” The reality of feeling chained to her own home that she once had freedom within was foreign and uncomfortable. She was not used to it. She did not want it. She had watched her mother slowly deteriorate after each pregnancy and labor, whether a baby was born or not. It ate at her until she died from it, too weak to carry on.

But despite her own fears and reservations about her future, she could not escape it. She unfortunately was not a man, though she deeply envied them for the fact they could do whatever they pleased. Her own envy and frustration were often directed towards her husband due to his freedom to play and indulge in whatever suited his tastes and she had to stick with what was expected of her. When was it her turn? Though, she supposed she already had a taste of that world and it left her eager for more but fearful of the consequences that came with it.

coded by social

Spoiler: uncoded

“Surely you jest Ser.” An amused smile formed on her lips as she gently pressed her heels into the sides of her mare, her fingers lightly gripping her reins. The promise of galloping through nature without worrying about court rumors or complaints sounded quite wonderful. As they passed through the gates, she lengthened her reins and pressed her left heel into Shyrkos before clucking twice, causing the white horse to break into a gallop, causing the wind to rush by as they ran. A brilliant smile decorated the princess’s face as she laughed, doing her best to stay close to Harwin and Rous so she did not accidentally veer off course.

The scenery passed in flashes as the pair sped down the path, dirt and pebbles flying in the wake of their horses, but it did not matter. The feeling of the wind on her skin, rushing past her ears, dulling the sounds of the world in a way that made her feel like all of her worries had been left far behind. The open fields of grass soon became littered with trees as they approached the entrance of the Kingswood, the lush green forest quietly awaiting them. Slowing Shyrkos down, Rhaenyra laughed breathlessly as she held her reins in one hand, the other brushing stray hairs away from her warmed face. “I do believe your father would’ve fainted from that display.” She wasn’t a fool, she could sense the rising tensions between all within the Red Keep. False smiles and pleasantries seemed to be the only thing spoken in her presence. Everyone seemed far too invested in her safety and well-being, more than normal, making her feel as if she was some delicate creature and that she was sure she wasn't.

The remark from the knight made her smile as she shook her head, raising an eyebrow slightly at him. “You both seem keen to show off. Though he does it more proudly I would say.” Rhaenyra ran her hand up the neck of her mare, chuckling quietly as Harwin skillfully opened the latched gate with the tip of an arrow, his foot quickly kicking it open with an unceremonious shriek from the gate as it flung open. The man bowed dramatically, his curls falling forward slightly, something that caught her eye for a moment before she looked away and guided her horse through the gate.

"Princesses first, Your Highness." Harwin's words were comfortable and easy as if the titles he spoke held little meaning while they were out there. She was acutely aware of their differences in status but going out on a ride like this, hunting deer in the Kingswood, there was no use for things like being a princess. Casual conversation was more interesting and fun for her, and that was her ultimate goal. To have fun, at least on her end.

“Though you do have a certain charm to your ways.” Rhaenyra navigated Shyrkos through the gate and allowed herself to take a moment to stretch her arms out, closing her eyes as she did so. Finally, she was away from all the stress that plagued her back at the Red Keep. Once satisfied, she gathered her reins and quietly followed the dark-haired man, trusting that he would know where to go in the Kingswood. She did not venture into them very often as she was usually far above them on the back of Syrax, making the most of her privilege as a Targaryen.

Her attention was quickly stolen by the mention of Harrenhal, mostly due to the fact she had only spent a small amount of time there during a royal tour, years prior. Leaning forward slightly, she turned her head, clearly interested in what he was talking about. Haunted forests, a castle that was molded by dragons and blood, well it was fascinating. The small quip about her being potentially too busy to go caused a sigh to escape her. “I would rather go there and deal with ghosts and curses than the horrors of court that await me. It truly is suffocating.” Sitting up properly, she looked around the dense woods, attempting to find an animal hiding in the vegetation.

“I enjoyed my visit before, though it was quite short. I would like to go again and get a proper tour of it, not one that my father arranged. Something that you schemed up would be more fitting I think.” A few small birds flew overhead and she smiled at the thought, knowing that it would be difficult to get permission to travel without being on tour. She had too much to do as an heir, though all of her duties seemed to be compacted into her simply producing her own heir. “Though I don’t believe I would be allowed to travel far, at least not in my current condition.” The reality of feeling chained to her own home that she once had freedom within was foreign and uncomfortable. She was not used to it. She did not want it. She had watched her mother slowly deteriorate after each pregnancy and labor, whether a baby was born or not. It ate at her until she died from it, too weak to carry on.

But despite her own fears and reservations about her future, she could not escape it. She unfortunately was not a man, though she deeply envied them for the fact they could do whatever they pleased. Her own envy and frustration were often directed towards her husband due to his freedom to play and indulge in whatever suited his tastes and she had to stick with what was expected of her. When was it her turn? Though, she supposed she already had a taste of that world and it left her eager for more but fearful of the consequences that came with it.