Chapter 30

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Chapter 30: The Vipers meets the Roses
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Princess Nymeria POV

Six days before the tourney

I stood at the tourney grounds, watching as the final touches were being made. Banners in red and gold fluttered in the morning breeze, the sigils of House Lannister displayed proudly as the hosts of the event.

The sprawling grounds, nestled between Lannisport and Casterly Rock, were already alive with activity.

Knights in shining armor paraded their destriers, while squires and servants hurried to tend to their lords and ladies.

The clang of hammers and the hum of conversation filled the air, creating a lively atmosphere as tents were pitched and the lists prepared.

I was here with my son and daughter, Oberyn and Elia. Oberyn, bold and daring as always, was eager to witness the tourney, while Elia, more composed, observed the scene with sharp, discerning eyes.

Several Martell knights followed behind us, their presence a reminder of Dorne's strength.

Standing beside my children was someone who had clearly piqued both their interests—Galahad, the young squire whose charm and skill had captured their attention.

I had personally invited him to accompany us, after securing the Lannisters' permission. They had been gracious enough to allow it, and I was glad for the opportunity to observe him more closely.

There was something about the boy, an intensity in those piercing green eyes, that intrigued me as well.

I found myself glancing at him, biting my lip without even realizing it. His confidence was unmistakable—bold and self-assured in a way that made him stand out.

He was exactly the type that could turn heads, even mine.

I had seen him in the mornings, training without his tunic, his movements deliberate and powerful. His body, already muscular and perfectly sculpted for his age, hinted at the strength and potential he held within.

The sight of him, so young yet so striking, stirred something warm and undeniable within me.

I bit my lip harder, reminding myself not to let that warmth turn into something more. He was just a squire, barely fifteen name days.

But a part of me couldn't help but think that, if we were in Dorne, things might be different. I allowed myself a small, knowing smirk at the thought.

Still, I pushed those feelings aside, forcing my desire to stay in check—not because of his youth, but because he was a companion to my children, Oberyn and Elia.

They were laughing and smiling, their easy camaraderie clear as they chatted with Galahad.

My son, Oberyn, seemed particularly animated, while Elia, more reserved, still offered a warm smile in response to Galahad's jests.

"So, Galahad," I interjected with a teasing smile, stepping into the conversation,

"I heard you'd be participating in the tourney. Would it be for the squires' melee? It's quite a shame because, from what I've seen, you're the equal of any knight." I had witnessed the sparring sessions between the Lannister knights, my son, and Galahad.

The boy had bested them all, and it only deepened my interest in him.

Galahad smiled, his confidence showing as he nodded. "Yes, Princess, though I wish that wasn't the case. I don't mind it." His words were sincere, showing a quiet acceptance of his position.

I admired his loyalty, how he spoke with such respect for his place in the Lannister household, even if he had yet to be knighted.

"But it's unfair," Oberyn chimed in, a mischievous smirk tugging at his lips.

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