When Rhea Royce died, the noble house of Royce blamed the Rogue Prince. Daemon Targaryen was the culprit for the downfall of the House, no matter what was said. Leaving Runestone with no Lord or Lady at its helm, a decision was made to promote a min...
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HELAENA had been concerned for eight moons now. Donella had not seemed like herself, and it was really starting to put a strain on her responsibilities around the Keep. Helaena had noticed the girl yawning before noon, and every single day she had been coming up with an excuse to leave during the afternoon. She had to rely much more on the youngest of her serving girls, Dyana, to help with some of the tasks which Donella would have loved to do. That's why, on the eighth evening when Donella had retired to her rooms, she had asked for Dyana to help her dress,
"Are you sure?" Donella asked, "I can help you before I leave,"
"It is fine," Helaena's words were chipped, "Dyana needs the practice anyway... Nobody does hair like you."
Donella smiled before excusing herself for the night, wishing Helaena well as she went on her way to find Dyana.
The common girl was silent when she entered the wall, head bowed. Often, her timidness did nothing but mildly annoy Helaena. The Princess thrived from intelligent conversation and witty banter between friends. Dyana provided nothing.
"I shall run you a bath, my Princess," Dyana offered as she walked towards the bronze tub which overlooked the city,
"Do not," Helaena offered a small smile to the girl, "Come and sit with me for a moment."
Dyana looked toward Helaena for a moment, who was sat in her plush, green armchair. The seat opposite - a maroon loveseat - was available. Dyana sat dutifully but kept her eyes low to show that she knew she was inferior.
She acts as though she is a dragon pup, Helaena thought to herself, She will be defeated by the dragon. The dragons take no prisoners.
"Dyana," Helaena used the calming voice she would use on her twins when it was their bedtime, "Have you noticed anything unusual about Donella?"
The girl's eyes flickered from side to side as she wracked her memory. Why was the Princess asking her this question?Did she sign a piece of parchment declaring her loyalty to the servants? No, of course not... This was a test, she could tell,
"No," She said quietly, "I do not see her often, your Highness,"
"Well..." Helaena worked out the best way to have this discussion, "I have, and I'm worried about her. Lady Donella is like a sister to me, do you understand?"
"Yes, your Highness," Dyana spoke as she played with her fingers. She did not have siblings,
"You couldn't... Check-in with her, could you?" Helaena asked,
