Love beneath the Snow

04| 𝔮𝔲𝔦𝔢𝔱 𝔪𝔬𝔪𝔢𝔫𝔱𝔰 𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔫𝔢𝔴 𝔟𝔬𝔫𝔡𝔰

𝔴𝔦𝔫𝔱𝔢𝔯𝔣𝔢𝔩𝔩, 𝔱𝔥𝔢 𝔫𝔬𝔯𝔱𝔥

— THE NEXT MORNING, VALIRA FOUND HERSELF SEATED IN A SUNLIT CORNER OF WINTERFELL'S GREAT HALL, WORKING ON A DELICATE PIECE OF EMBROIDERY. Sansa Stark joined her, settling down across Valira with her own needle and thread. The two young women chatted amiably as they worked. Sansa, glancing up from her embroidery, asked, "So, how are you finding Winterfell so far, Princess?" Valira smiled warmly.

"Please, Sansa, just call me Valira. There's no need for formality. Winterfell is quite different from King's Landing. But it's charming in its own way. I'm getting used to the cold." Sansa giggled. "You should see it in the winter. It's beautiful but freezing. Have you had a chance to get to know anyone here?" Valira shook her head. "Not much yet. I've mostly been busy with the formalities."

"Well," Sansa said with a teasing tone, "I hear that Robb has taken quite an interest in you. Have you noticed his wandering eyes?" Valira laughed softly, shaking her head. "Oh, Robb? I did catch him looking once or twice. But I think he's just being polite." Sansa raised an eyebrow playfully. "Polite? He's been very attentive. I wouldn't be surprised if he's already taken a liking to you."

Valira blushed slightly. "Well, he's certainly charming. But don't get any ideas, Sansa. I'm here to make friends, not to get entangled in romantic intrigues." Sansa grinned. "You say that now, but the North has a way of surprising people. But I can tell you must have made quite an impression." Valira smiled, enjoying the playful banter. "Well, if Robb has taken an interest, it's certainly flattering."

Valira leaned in with a teasing smile. "And what about Joffrey? I hear he's quite taken with you. Does he charm you with his usual antics?" Sansa's eyes lit up. "Oh, Prince Joffrey is absolutely charming. He's everything I've ever dreamed of—so noble and confident." Valira nodded, a knowing glint in her eye. "He certainly knows how to make an impression. I hope he's as perfect as you imagine." Sansa sighed.

"He is. I can't help but be taken with him."

Valira's smile softened, though her gaze held a hint of caution. "Well, if anyone can bring out the best in him, it's you. Just be sure to keep your eyes open, alright?" Sansa looked curious but nodded. "Of course. I'll be careful."

After their conversation, Valira made her way to the practice yard where she found Arya Stark. Arya was expertly drawing back her bowstring, focusing intently on her target. Valira approached with admiration. "Lady Arya," Valira said with a warm smile, "I'm quite impressed by your skill with the bow."

"Oh, I'm no lady Princess" Arya said, breaking her concentration. "Father taught me. He's always been so patient, showing me how to aim and shoot." Valira's eyes widened with interest. "That's amazing. I've always wanted to learn more about archery."

"Would you like me to show you some techniques?" Arya offered, her excitement palpable. "I'd love that," Valira said eagerly. "Thank you." The two spent the afternoon practicing, with Arya teaching Valira the basics of archery. Arya's enthusiasm was infectious, and Valira enjoyed every moment.

As evening fell, the great hall was abuzz with the sounds of the evening feast. Valira took a seat at the long table, and Robb Stark soon joined her. He leaned in with a charming smile. "So, Princess," Robb began, his tone playful, "how are you finding Winterfell? I hope it's not too cold for you." Valira smiled, amused by his flirtatious demeanor. "It's a bit cold, but I'm managing." Robb's gaze lingered on her, and he continued with a grin, "Well, if you need any help warming up, I'm happy to offer my services." Valira chuckled, finding his charm endearing. "That's very kind of you, Robb. I appreciate the offer." Robb leaned closer, his voice dropping to a flirtatious whisper. "You know, I think you're quite extraordinary. I've never met anyone quite like you."

Valira's smile softened, and she met his gaze with a playful look. "You're too kind, Robb. But I'm afraid I'm not as easily charmed as you might think." Robb laughed, clearly enjoying their exchange. "Well, I suppose I'll just have to work harder then."

As the night deepened, Valira decided to take a walk to clear her mind. The cool evening air was refreshing, and she found herself wandering towards the practice yard once more. There, she saw Jon Snow practicing with his sword, the rhythmic clang of metal filling the quiet night. Valira approached him, her footsteps soft on the gravel. "You're quite the warrior, Jon. Hard at work even now?" Jon paused, wiping sweat from his brow, and looked up. "Princess. Sorry...Valira. I didn't expect to see you out here." Valira grinned, teasingly. "I'm just curious. I've heard so much about your swordsmanship. I thought I'd come see for myself." Jon chuckled, shaking his head. "It's not as impressive as it seems. But thank you."

"How did you learn?" Valira said, her voice warm. Jon's expression softened as he leaned on his sword. "My father taught me. We spent many hours together, training in the courtyard. He believed it was important for me to be able to defend myself."
Valira's eyes lit up with interest. "My father did the same for me. I've had a few lessons in swordplay myself. Though I must say, I haven't had much chance to practice recently." Jon raised an eyebrow, a playful smile tugging at his lips. "Is that so? Well, if you're confident in your skills, perhaps you'd like to test them?"

Valira tilted her head, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Oh, are you challenging me to a duel?" Jon chuckled, shaking his head. "Not exactly. I'm just curious to see if you're as good as you say you are. But I wouldn't want to take advantage of your royal status." Valira laughed softly. "Are you scared of being beaten by a girl?" Jon's eyes twinkled with amusement. "Scared? No. But it wouldn't be very proper for me to engage in combat with a princess." Valira stepped closer, her tone light and teasing.

"Oh, come on, Jon. I promise I won't hold back. It could be quite fun to train together. I could use the practice, and you might enjoy the challenge."

Jon considered her offer, a thoughtful expression on his face. "You know, it's not every day I get a challenge from a princess. Alright, you've convinced me. We can start tomorrow." Valira's face brightened with a grin. "Excellent! I'm looking forward to it. Goodnight, Jon."

"Goodnight, Valira," Jon replied, watching her leave with a thoughtful expression. As Valira went to bed, her mind was filled with the day's events, especially her interactions with Jon. Meanwhile, Jon continued his practice, his thoughts lingering on Valira and their upcoming training session.

A/N:
Uuuuu things are getting interesting. And I'm loving so much that Valira is bonding with Sansa and Arya (they are the best). This unfortunately is the last chapter I wrote so now I have to get back to write the next one. I'll try my best to update as much as I can, being in college and all. I hope you like it tho. Let me know what you think <3
Love you all!