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FIVE | played like a fiddle
♕
THE FIRST DANCES WERE SPLENDID. Every girl moved in sync with the melody of the high harp and flute. The flowy dresses and white masks created a spectacular scene that delighted the Lords and Ladies of the Great Hall. They applauded profusely at the end of every performance.
The Great Hall looked impressive, just as Rhaena had planned. Prominent white cloths hung from the roof, and tall white candles illuminated the hall in golden brilliance. While most watched the dances, some nobles preferred to play games or converse with their neighbour. The ambience was lively, and Rhaena took it all in. She had never felt so alive.
The event was everything she wanted it to be. The servants had worked day and night to bring her expectations to life. She also had to thank her Septa for it, but she would never say it out loud in spite.
The swan dance had ended and the crowd applauded again. The girls joined in the image of a swan, with Rhaena as the right wing.
The bards began playing the next tune. The dances, until now, were performed with only the ladies of Maiden's Day. The following dance was the Dornish Dance, which involved a male partner.
Rhaena knew who she wanted as a partner. But she had not seen the one she wanted to see. She scanned the hall as much as her mask allowed her to.
Was he even here? He had to be here...
All Lords and Ladies of the Crownlands were invited, as were the Lords of the major Houses. The Lords who lived far from the court were invited as a formality. They never joined for events such as this, only coronations or weddings were important enough for them to travel. Rhaena understood they would have to travel many months for only one eve. Besides, they did not celebrate Maiden's Day in the northern region.
Lords, knights and other nobles were invited to join the Maidens on the floor. It was the choice of the ladies. Since the girls looked identical, the men did not know with whom they were dancing. It made for interesting couples, especially since the five peasant girls were also in the group. It could have been an embarrassing situation where the girls were not masked.
Rhaena recognised Serena's gown and she had chosen her younger brother Jarman Buckwell as a partner. It was a safe choice that reflected well on her character. It was the same choice Rhaena wanted to make. She scanned the men who were still waiting. Since her first choice was not here, it was slim pickings. She stepped forward, bowed slightly and held out her hand to the man she had chosen.
His countenance was pleasant, his doublet made of fine green velvet trimmed with sable. The sigil of his house was embroidered on his chest, the golden rose of House Tyrell. His brown hair fell in curls over his head and bounced with the beginning steps of the Dornish Dance. It was a wonder that the new Lord Tyrell knew the steps of this dance, considering the animosity between the Reach and Dornish.
