Led By Fiery Passion { Aemond Targaryen}

Part 61

Aenyra walked through the dimly lit corridors until she paused in front of Cregan's office door. Twisting the ring on her finger, she took a deep breath to steady herself before knocking softly.

"Come in," Cregan's stern voice called from within. Aenyra opened the door cautiously, peeking inside initially. Cregan was seated at his dark oak desk, scrolls and parchment strewn across its surface as he continued to write a letter, not glancing up even as she stepped further into the room.

"Cregan," Aenyra began, breaking the silence. "I heard you wanted to speak with me." Finally, Cregan lifted his gaze from the paper, setting down the feathered pen. He leaned back in his chair, studying Aenyra with a serious expression.

"Yes," he began, his voice steady, "I know what Aegon offered to be in an alliance with the north, and a lot of my advisers told me I should agree to it, but as my father before me, I pledge here and now to serve Rhaenyra Targaryen as the rightful queen of the seven kingdoms.

"You choosing our side?" Aenyra asked, double checking to be sure she heard him right.

"I told you once before the North would always be at your service Aenyra. My father was a wise man and he made an oath to serve your mother once she was queen, a stark never forgets an oath. I will send myself along with my men to war to fight for her if that is what she wishes. However, we cannot commit fully to sending all our resources into the fray just yet."

Aenyra nodded her head her brow furrowed with concern. "I understand the need for caution. But
can't afford to fall behind, especially with the winter approaching."

Cregan leaned forward, his gaze locking onto hers. "I plan to send 2,000 of our best men-what we call the Greybeards. They may be older, but they are seasoned fighters, loyal to the end. They will bolster your forces and provide the experience needed on the battlefield."

Aenyra breathed a sigh of relief. "That's a solid start. But what about the rest? We'll need more than that if we're to stand a chance."

"I know, but we must wait until winter is over," Cregan explained, his tone firm but understanding. "The North's harsh climate will slow movements on both sides. It's a matter of strategy. Sending more now could lead to unnecessary losses. When spring arrives, and the ground thaws, we can dispatch additional forces to ensure you have the numbers you need."

She frowned, knowing the weight of what lay ahead. "But every moment we delay gives the greens an advantage. Can't we do something more?"

"I'm sorry, Aenyra. I would if I could, but that's all I can afford to send right now."

She nodded in understanding and appreciation. "Okay, 2000 will be enough for now. I believe that will satisfy my mother." Cregan stood up and handed Aenyra two pieces of parchment that were already drawn up with the information, each bearing his signature.

"Sign both." he instructed. She reread the contents carefully before signing her name.

"Thank you, Lord Stark," Aenyra said, giving him one of the sheets while rolling the other up and placing it in her chest pocket. She looked at Cregan with a smile, one he returned.

"I should go. I've been away for a few days, and I need to get back to-"

"To Aemond?" Cregan finished her thought. Aenyra shifted uncomfortably.

"Yes, to Aemond, and to my mother and siblings." she replied, her expression turning serious.

"Of course princess, I'll walk you out to Cannibal." Cregan said as they made their way through Winterfell. Aenyra took in her surroundings, cherishing the moment with him. She wasn't sure when they would see each other again, and she wanted to etch both this place and his presence into her memory. It had always felt like a safe haven to her.