The day of the tourney finally came. The Red Keep buzzed with life as servants rushed about to make final preparations for the celebrations.
It did nothing to help the worry that tightened my chest and thrummed in my veins.
Lords and Ladies from all across the seven kingdoms had made their way to King's Landing to participate and it was predicted to be the largest gathering since the Great Council.
I hardly sat still as one of the servants intricately braided my hair. As soon as she finished I made quick work of slipping into the black and red gown that had been tailored specifically for this occasion.
As I looked over myself in the mirror I found myself thinking it was a shame really. It truly was a gorgeous ensemble especially paired with the gold choker lined with rubies. But today I would be trading tradition for a shield and sword.
As soon as I was finished readying myself I rushed to join Rhaenyra and the other's who would join the King in the Royal box. My younger cousin's smile grew wide as she noticed my approach.
"Beautiful as ever, cousin. Perhaps you'll catch the eye of a handsome knight, or a fair lady," she lowered her voice at the last part, looping her arm through my own.
We both laughed together conspiratorially. Princess Rhaenys arched a perfect brow in our direction and my heart jumped into my throat.
"Princess," I greeted with a small curtsy.
Rhaenyra shot me a knowing smirk before walking over to speak to Alicent and her Father.
As soon as she left, Rhaenys' stern expression turned into one of amusement, "she's right you know."
I furrowed my brow in confusion, "She's right about what exactly, Princess?"
She stepped closer and my breath hitched ever so slightly. "You look beautiful, Princess," She murmured so no one would hear.
I looked up into her brilliant hazel eyes finding myself at a loss for words.
"There they are!" came my father's booming voice.
I tore my gaze away from Rhaenys' as my father, Lord Desmond Manderly and Rhaenys' husband Lord Corlys Velaryon approached us.
My father was Lord of White Harbor and Warden of the White Knife. He was the wealthiest man in the north and presided over its only true city.
Not to mention he commanded the North's naval force so naturally he and the Sea Snake were great friends and close allies.
"My Lords," I greeted keeping my voice even as to not alert my father to the fear bubbling under the surface.
My father looked me over approvingly, "You look like a proper Princess of the Realm, daughter. Your mother would be proud."
I suppressed the urge to roll my eyes.
She wouldn't. If my mother had still been alive she would have encouraged me to see my desires through and burn down anyone who dared stand in my way.
She would tell me to meet them with Fire and Blood as is Targaryen custom.
Noticing my clear discomfort Rhaenyra swept in rescuing me. "Lord Manderly, Lord Corlys, I do believe my Father would like to speak to you before the tournament begins," Rhaenyra informed them.
They both took their leave going over to have an animated conversation with the King.
"Thank you, cousin," I sighed with relief.
She smiled but before she could speak a servant rushed up to us.
"Princess. It's your mother she has begun her labors," She explained out of breath.
