Chapter 16

The Snake's Pit

-298 AC-

"Make no mistake, dwarf. I fought for you, but I do not love you.''

- ''It was your blade I needed,'' Tyrion said, ''not your love."

"Wake up, Joffrey." Elenys called out, shaking her nephew gently, "Ser Barristan is waiting for you."

Ever since Robert had put Cersei under house arrest, she had taken it upon herself to change their entire daily routines, ranging from sword training to educational classes. Especially the Crown prince was being educated sternly since he seemed to have forgotten most of the important things a prince ought to know. Strategy, politics, history, math, astrology, archery, jousting and others. She had seen that it drove Joffrey crazy but she wouldn't budge from this. He would need all the help he could get to handle the realm's affair thoroughly.

Tywin would only use him, Cersei wanted his power and Jaime was useless. Her brothers had tried tutoring Joffrey but Cersei had sabotaged them almost every single time. Although, her brother Renly showed less interest in his nephews and niece, opting to lavish Loras with more attention. Lady Cassana would have been so disappointed in him. Stannis had tried to reason with the bull-headed Baratheon, but he refused to end his friendship with the chivalrous, handsome Tyrell.

Shaking her thoughts away about Renly, she frowned in displeasure when Joffrey pulled the covers over himself.

Without any remorse, she pulled the covers from him, smirking slyly when she noticed his erection. "Ah, my little Joff seems to have had quite a wet dream."

That woke up the sleepyhead soon enough, his upper body shot forward, eyes wide and cheeks aflame. Quickly moving around, he stumbled out of his bed, almost falling face first to the floor. Curses and hisses left his lips and when he stood up, he covered his nether regions, avoiding eye contact. "Aunt Elenys, please, some privacy would be appreciated."

She smiled widely, whirling around and leaving him to his device. His lessons were already bearing fruit- Joffrey was sounding much more courteous and polite than ever.

While Joffrey was being tutored thoroughly, Tommen received lessons with less pressure. Along with Bran, the two trained with Ser Arys Oakheart, the best option within the Kingsguard, outside of Barristan the Bold. Light-brown hair, pleasing appearance and a good built, the knight was perfect for the role of a teacher for the two boys. The two were showing great improvements, especially in swordsmanship.

Meanwhile, Myrcella was being taught as well, even archery from herself. After she had told the news to Cersei, the Queen had let out a blood-curdling scream that sounded like music to my ears. Robert had been ecstatic when he had seen his daughter's talent with the bow. Even she had been impressed. After some time, Arya had started attending the lessons as well. Eventually, Elenys pulled Sansa and her friend, Jeyne, in the lessons as well. The red-haired beauty had been ashamed at first, but after some encouraging words from her father, herself and even Robert, Sansa had started practising with much more vigour than before.

In the meantime, Steffon had been taken under Jon's wing. She had never seen him work so hard and it was already showing in his muscles. Robert had even sparred with him once, much to her amusement, showing some tricks that he had used as a youthful teenager. Though, Steffon hadn't been that happy to get his father's attention. In fact, ever since he had hit her, Steffon had became cold towards his biological father. Cold, but respectful.

Sighing tiredly, she walked towards Robert's tent, wanting to talk to him about the realm's situation. She didn't want to be unprepared when she would be dropped in the Council's Meeting. Especially since most members were vultures and backs-stabbing creatures. Plots and lies crawled within that snake's pit. Thankfully, with Saffyre's presence, people wouldn't try to anger her. Her dragon would burn anyone to a crisp.

Jaime was guarding the king's tent when she arrived. To anger Cersei even more, Robert had forbidden any form of contact between the two. So, here was the Kingslayer in all his glory, guarding the king.

Arching her elegant eyebrow, she noticed his intense gaze, "Ser, I would like it if you kept your eyes to yourself."

"My apologies, milady." He bowed curtly, eyes still not moving away from her.

"Maybe you didn't hear me. I said I don't like the way you ogle me."

His lips curled in disgust, shifting his eyes away from her.

Pleased with his obedience, she passed him without another word.

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Dread pooled in her stomach when she saw the Red Keep looming over her. Today would be the day that she would see Arthur again after almost a month. Her heart was beating wildly, sweat already matting her forehead. The foul smell from King's Landing and the sudden increase in temperature didn't help any matters. She was sweaty, irritated, worried and sick to the stomach.

"Elenys, are you alright?" Jon asked her worriedly as he trotted next to her, his snow white horse neighing loudly.

She cleared her throat and smiled warmly, nodding curtly. Worrying her sworn sword and good friend over her personal life was unprofessional of her. But she really needed someone to talk to. Her brothers were out of the question for obvious reasons. Ned would blush madly and sputter unintelligible words. Steffon was her son, just ew. Jon was her only option, it seemed. Changing her mind, she bit her lips worriedly, "Perhaps we can talk about it later?"

He nodded at her, a gentle smile tugging at his lips.

Her entire body froze when they entered the Red Keep. She could already feel Arthur's eyes burn a hole through her. It felt weird to see him after such a long time and her stomach churned unpleasantly, her fingers shaking as she held the reins tightly and spurring Midnight gently forward. Once the group split off- the King to Maegor's holdfast, Ned and his entourage to the Hand's Tower and her group to the second floor in Maegor's holdfast, Arthur and ten elite men from Dragonwood escorted her little group, consisting of Jon, Steffon and herself.

Seconds ticked by and so did her uneasiness. Once they arrived at the holdfast, she swung her leg to the side and dismounted Midnight. After making sure that one of her own stable-boys would take care of her warhorse, she decided to look at Arthur.

Her Sword in the Morning seemed to shine even brighter. His face still looked youthful with a few exception of wrinkles but they were hardly visible. His healthy diet and constant training had kept him in shape and young. Silvery-blond hair and purple eyes with a firm, muscled, tall body. He was the picture-perfect of handsomeness.

Trying not to show discomfort, she smiled weakly to him, "Arthur, you seem well..."

"Milady, your presence was sorely missed by us all," he grabbed her hand gently and placed a kiss on her hand, eyes locking with her. But his voice sounded cold and detached, anger still evident in his voice. This would need to be cleared up...

Keeping her face calm and collected, she nodded curtly and walked towards her floor, knowing that her entire entourage, guards included, were living in that floor. One floor away from the king's family. Though getting on her floor would be very difficult since there were guards stationed near every exit.

Walking through the halls, receiving polite and curious bows or curtsies made her feel so out of place. This place had never been her home, instead if left her feeling lost and tired. Many things had happened, things she'd rather forget, but unfortunately life had never been that easy. With every step she took, images of a fearful, little girl appeared. Her mood had completely plummeted down, no feeling of happiness left in her. And she had wanted to tell Steffon so many anecdotes of her life in this accursed place but she couldn't think of even one simple thing.

Finally, they arrived in her solar where the guards split up and moved to their next destination. Two guards remained near her door, while four more led Steffon and Jon to their quarters. Her son was living in the next solar, while Jon was on the other side of Steffon. That had been something she wanted; her son's quarters between the two of them while Arthur was on the opposite side. That way she would be able to sleep peacefully.

Once Jon and Steffon were gone, Arthur remained with her but kept his distance from her.

Feeling hurt and sad, she opened her door and spoke softly, "Can we talk?"

"Is that an order, milady?"

She flinched at his hard voice, "No, it's a request..."

"Then I'd rather not," came his harsh, cold answer.

Clenching her fists in anger, she walked in her solar and decided to forget about the annoying knight. Without thinking clearly, she sat down on her table, many different dishes and fruits already served, and grabbed a wine-filled goblet. "Damn you Arthur. For haunting every single thought of mine." Downing the cup in one swing, she continued drinking, knowing that it was stupid to drink because of a man.

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Elenys opened her bleary eyes, looking at the disapproved face of Jon. "There is a Council's Meeting planned by the Hand."

Groaning weakly, she cursed her friend to the depths of hell and stood up on shaky legs. "Fuck. I feel like shit."

"You also look like shit," Jon added cheekily.

"Don't make me kill you..."

Her head pounded loudly and she clenched her stomach tightly, feeling sick. She really didn't want to go to this meeting. Walking weakly to the door, she almost buckled down if it weren't for Jon's steady grip.

"Maybe a bath will help? I'll get the maids and tell the members that you will be running late." Not leaving her time to respond, he left her on her bed and disappeared behind her giant doors.

Moaning in pain, she curled in a protective ball, hoping that she would die.

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Ned stared at her in disapproval and relief, knowing that Elenys would be his greatest ally. But after hearing that she got drunk and late to the meeting, he had been quite disappointed. He knew there was a good enough reason for the Dragon Queen to get drunk, but now had not been a good moment to do so. His best friend, Robert, was demanding a tourney in the name of the new Hand and his sister's arrival.

The treasury was empty, the king had enormous debts with different parties and yet, Robert wanted another tourney that they couldn't absolutely afford.

Frown still marring his face, he looked pointedly at Elenys, "Elenys."

She nodded curtly, her eyes bloodshot. Her appearance was less brighter than he was used to. It seemed like she had been crying but was desperately hiding it. Feeling worried for her, he spoke up but was cut off by Renly, "Sister, you don't look well. Mayhaps it would be better if you went back to your chambers?"

Her fierce glare made Renly stop questioning her presence. "Who ordered this meeting to be opened?"

Petyr Baelish raised his hand, a playful smirk on his face. "That would be me, princess."

She glowered at the imbecile of a man. Ned actually shivered from that look, he had never seen her this bitter and angry. After this meeting, he would talk to her and see what was troubling his friend's mind.

"Wouldn't it have been courteous of you to wait one single day until we were well-rested from our long travels?"

Littlefinger plastered a fake concerned look on his face, "But princess, the king demands and we obey, right?"

"I will deal with you later," came her cold, harsh answer, her ferocious eyes even putting Petyr on edge.

"My deepest apologies, princess. I was only doing what my king commanded. Surely, you understand that?"

"Yes, I do. But you could have waited one day. I'm sure my dear brother, the king, wouldn't have minded in the slightest." She responded calmly, eyes narrowed and lips pursed.

Ned rubbed his temples in a circular motion and decided to stop this useless discussion between the Adviser of the Hand and the Master of Coin. "Alright, we're already present so there is no need to discuss this subject further. Elenys, please."

The Dragon Queen nodded and sat down next to Renly, sending an apologetic smile towards her youngest brother. Renly nodded his head, smiling warmly and assuring her that he wasn't offended. "Ned, will you take the word or will I?"

Ned cleared his throat and decided to start first, taking his duty as the Hand very serious. "We won't plan this tourney. The treasury can't afford it."

Renly stared, Littlefinger almost tutted at the honourable Ned, the Spymaster was back in his own world and Great Maester Pycelle was hunched over with glazed eyes. Ned couldn't believe that these people were the Council members, none was useful, not even Renly.

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"Ned, if I may?" Elenys spoke politely, knowing that she had to ask instead of interrupt. The other members would think of him to be weak otherwise, always submissive towards the Dragon Queen. Once they would smell one single weakness, they would pounce on him.

Lord Stark nodded in consent, locking his hands and staring a her. He was hoping that she would be the voice of reason.

"Robert can't be persuaded. You know how my brother is, once he sets his mind on something, he will do it, whatever the costs." She eyed him intently, trying to get her message across. When his eyes lit up in understanding, he nodded gravely, his face serious and solemn. "But what we can do, is change a few things in the tournament to lessen the burden on the treasury." She inhaled quietly, trying to ignore her chaotic feelings and pounding head, "First of all, we can take a tourney fee from all the knights who wish to enter. This way we will not only get motivated knights, but we'll also be able to use that money in the reward itself. We can also ask for sponsors from rich familie-"

"But milady, the other great Lords would think us weak if we ask them to sponsor the Tourney." Petyr supplied mockingly.

She turned her head sharply towards the Mockingbird whose presence was starting to piss her off. Not only was he rude, but he was damned creepy. The way he stared at her seemed like he was estimating her value for his pleasure houses.

Renly stood up in anger, a fierce scowl on his face, "How dare you interrupt my sister?!"

Even Ned was about to protest, but Elenys raised her hand, "Gentlemen, it's quite alright. Lord Baelish made a valid argument," Smirking cunningly, she curled her hair around her fingers, "It would seem weak to get the sponsors from the Great Houses, which is why our dear friend, Lord Petyr Baelish will sponsor the Tourney instead!" She clapped her hands, giving off a sweet persona, "Thanks to this Tourney, your pleasure houses would receive even more customers, which means that you'll be the only person to benefit from this event. This way, you can help out the treasury along with your position as the Master of Coin and become well-known as the generous Lord Petyr Baelish. Of course, you'll have to give us your consent, but I'm sure that a person like you is dying to help out Westeros in dire times, right?"

Renly suppressed chuckling and aided his sister in teaching the Mockingbird a lesson, "I find that idea wonderful, sister dearest!"

Ned's lips twitched at the way she used Petyr's rudeness to her advantage. And now the Mockingbird had been played by Elenys. He couldn't get out of this argument without angering the king and whole Westeros, he was trapped.

Littlefinger could only clench his fists tightly and curse out Elenys to the depths of Hell.

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"With the tourney fees and Lord Petyr's sponsoring, the treasury would have to find the remaining thirty million dragons from another source." Ned stated tiredly, wanting nothing more than to get his needed sleep. With all the stress from Robert, Cersei and the entire kingdom, he hadn't been able to shut his eyes.

Elenys, feeling sorry for her friend, spoke again, "If I may, milord?"

"Elenys," By now Ned was hoping for another miracle from her. Her ideas seemed wholly different, but in a good way. Obviously, all those years ruling Dragonwood from scratch made her highly experienced in politics, economy and others.

"Dragonwood will lend the remaining dragons from my own treasury. After all, it's a tourney in my honour as well so it would be a crime not to help out, right milord?" She shot Petyr a sly smile, feeling very vindictive for good reasons.

He gritted through his teeth, "Of course, princess."

"Then this leaves us with the main problem of the Council- the many debts of the kingdom." Ned started seriously, glad to be rid off the problems of the Tourney, "But Elenys and I will discuss this with Lord Petyr Baelish. All of you may leave us. Good day gentlemen."

The Dragon Queen nodded towards her guard whom was holding a stack of papers. Quietly, she took them and put them on the long, mahogany table, staring at Petyr with calculating eyes. This time the little snake won't be able to run away. He had interrupted her miserable drinking-time with herself and now he would pay for it. She would dissect every single transfer of money in the Book of Accountancy, not that he knew that she had it in the first place. It would be fun to see

One could play the same game, Littlefinger. As long as you knew the rules, your chances of winning was plausible.

Her lips curled up, eyes darkening as she regarded the relaxed lord, but she knew that deep down he must be worrying. Especially when Ned also started staring at him.

"Lord Baelish, will you explain us the reason as to how the realm owes six million dragons in debt to Tywin Lannister, Mace Tyrell, the Faith, the Iron Bank and other trade partners in Braavosi?" Ned Stark spat out in obvious distaste and barely controlled fury.

"As you both know, milord, milady, king Robert demands and the Master of Coin makes it appear."

Elenys eyed him with disinterest and cool indifference, "Perhaps making things appear is not the only thing you are good at." There was an obvious threat behind her words, one that Littlefinger had already puzzled out.

Ned looked slightly confused by her words and she couldn't help but chuckle inwardly at his lovable face. At times, she was baffled by his honour, wondering how one like Ned could exist in this despicable world. One thing she was sure of though and that was that her dear friend wouldn't survive one single day in this rat's nest. Would Ned even have questioned the Master of Coin if it weren't for her presence?

Most certainly not.

"Enough mind games," Ned's strong, stern voice boomed loudly, "Elenys, I grow weary of this. Let us end this useless talk."

Sighing in annoyance at his impatience, Elenys regarded her friend with exasperation, "As you wish, my lord Hand." Turning back to Littlefinger, she smirked gleefully, "Lord Petyr Baelish, we would like to receive your Book of Accountancy with all the transfers that had been made in your lordly name."

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Elenys could remember the red-faced, suppressed anger from the Master of Coin. How he had seemed to be on the verge of exploding from all her witty remarks. She knew it was stupid to provoke the sly bastard, but something about the man made her so suspicious. She had started decoding the many transfers done in name of the Master of Coin and till now nothing suspicious was found. It was quite aggravating to know how good Baelish was at hiding any loose end. She wished Tyrion was here, he was so much better in these things, having acknowledged his intelligence when he had helped her with the built of her University. In fact, many ideas had come from the disgraced Lannister. Such a gem, even Gerion had admitted that his nephew was abnormally smart.

Turning on her side, she pulled the silken blankets over her and enjoyed its smooth feeling on her skin. Sleep wouldn't come to her, no matter how many times she tossed and turned in her bed. She let out a quiet sigh and decided to give up on the task of counting sheep, knowing how utterly useless it is. Her mind kept whirling around back-stabbing liars in this treacherous pit. Even someone like her felt true fear at times.

With another tired sigh, she pushed her blanket aside and swung her bare feet on the cool tiled floor. Everything is so much different than Dragonwood...

To be honest, she missed her home. Did she really swap it for this foul-smelling shithole? Chuckling bitterly, she took one of her black-coloured cloak which hung on her chair and covered her thinly-clothed body. Perhaps a stroll would do her some good? In the morrow she would be tired again and receive quite some annoying remarks about the dark circles under her eyes. Unfortunately, make-up wasn't as advanced as back in her time, only kohl, red paint and flowery creams were available. Although, at times one could procure special black oil for the lashes made from black olives and imported from the Free Cities.

Once she reached her door, she twisted the knob and stepped outside. Her eyes widened slightly in surprise when she looked at the muscled form of Arthur, her heart beating madly inside her chest. He was leaning against the wall, donned in his armour with his faithful Dawn strapped on his shoulder. His cool lilac eyes regarded her with indifference and she felt another stab of pain, almost rendering her speechless. Ever since she had ordered him to King's Landing, their friendship had become retrained and tense to the point where he couldn't even look her in the eyes. Licking her dry, chapped lips, she opened her mouth to speak, "Ser Arthur."

He acknowledged her greeting with a sharp nod of his head, eyes roving back to scan his surroundings.

The way he dismissed her hurt more than she dared to say. "I'm going for a walk," without another word, she hurried away, trying to increase the distance between them. Her heart was hammering loudly as sobs threatened to burst out. She bit her lips harshly, the taste of copper invading her taste buds. To her annoyance, she heard his quiet footsteps follow behind her and cursed out his existence. "Ser Arthur, I'm capable of protecting myself."

"I have the utmost faith in your abilities, milady but protecting you is my duty."

She bit her tongue from retorting viciously, tired from his cold attitude towards her. Couldn't he just leave her alone for once? This place smelled like shit, the people all were shitty and she was sick and tired of everything. But she knew that if she opened her mouth, all her worries would leave her bloodied lips and therefore remaining quiet would be better. Much more advisable. Their relationship was fucked up- were they even friends anymore? She didn't know and she feared that even more. Never had she thought that their friendship would become this broken shell of what it used to be.

Blinking her tears away, she clenched her fists tightly and held them tightly against her chest, trying to keep the trembling under control and hidden from Arthur's eyes.

Finally, after some time, she reached the colourful gardens where different flowers had bloomed beautifully. Different scents reached her nostrils and she closed her eyes, inhaling loudly. The people in the Red Keep didn't deserve such ethereal beauty as these flowers. Transfixed with her surrounding, she sat down on the ground and just stared at the starry sky, wondering and hoping for so many things.

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Arthur couldn't help but stare at the sleeping beauty in front of him. His eyes softened at her peaceful expression, moving towards her long, dark lashes and rosy-coloured cheeks and down to her plump lips. He leaned forwards and kissed her forehead, "You have no idea what you do to me..."

Time had ticked away as she sat on the cold grounds, staring at the sky until sleepiness clouded her vision and she fell in the lands of Dreams.

It was unfortunate that their relationship had become so strained that he wondered if it would ever become like before. Was it already too late? Was it really that irreparable? He was tired of it as well, but he just couldn't bear it anymore. Elenys was and never will be his; she enjoyed the sinful touches too much to be loyal to one man. At times he even wondered if she was even able to love until he saw her dedication and determination to her beloved family and people. That was when her purple eyes would shine with warmth and his love for her would increase even more. The amount of love that shone in her amethyst orbs left him mystified, leaving him stumbling over words and becoming a clumsy, love-sick fool.

He lifted his fingers to touch her flushed cheeks, wanting to feel her smooth skin but pulled back at the last moment. He ignored the quick beating of his heart and his sweat, clammy hands. What a fool he was for falling in love with someone that would never take him serious. Arthur was nothing more than a challenge for her and would forever remain so. Neither would he be able to look in her loveless eyes as she made love to him. No passion, no love, only carnal urges. Especially knowing that thereafter her interest in him would disappear, only to see her in the arms of another man.

...no, his heart couldn't take it and as such, it was better to keep his distance from her, even if it pained him to do so.

With a soft exhale, he picked her lithe body up, carrying her bridal style as he walked back to her solar. Thankfully, there were no people lurking about, only the occasional guard, cloaked in crimson-gold or Baratheon-black. Although, no one dared to stop him after glimpsing a look at his face and sword, leaving him alone. Being renown as the Sword in the Morning was one of the few things in this world that he appreciated enormously. No one dared to disturb him, most people were left feeling in awe at his swordsmanship and gallant personality. Many men were envious of him and women dreamed of marrying him. Yet, he could not get the woman he loved. What a pathetic excuse of a man he was...

After a good walk through the Red Keep, he arrived at her solar, nodding at his soldiers on the way. Without another word, he tucked her back in the bed, not staying long enough to tempt his sinful thoughts. There was no hope of having a relationship with her, not after all the many he had seen her sleep with. His honour compelled him to stay away from her, knowing that he couldn't trust her to be faithful to him. Not after the things he had seen and heard.

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Elenys groaned and stretched her tired limbs, purring in enjoyment as leaned back in her bed. Today was the day that Mira Forrester would arrive in King's Landing to become her lady-in-waiting, not that she wanted one. But Mira's father, Lord Gregor Forrester, had requested that she would learn the southern court further from her. Mira used to be Margaery used to be her lady but after much insisting and prodding from House Forrester, Elenys would take her under her protection, even knowing that their age was close to each other. She didn't mind this, in fact, Mira was a sweet girl and she had known her ever since she was little.

Lord Forrester had always wanted Elenys to tutor her, but the North wasn't court and therefore not what her lady mother, Elissa, had wanted for her daughter. Now though, Lord Forrester wanted nothing more than to have her transferred in the hands of the few Northern people in the court. Even if Elenys wasn't born in the North, her blood ran colder than most Northern people. She enjoyed being in the North, enjoyed being Lady of Dragonwood and wouldn't trade her life for some flimsy castle in the South. All thanks to Stannis had she been able to build her dream.

Frowning in confusion, she stood up and wondered about her brother who had ventured back to Storm's End without a single word or letter. It was quite odd to say the least. He didn't even reply to her letters, even Renly had been unable to answer her questions. If this would continue on, then she would be forced to visit her brother to decipher his mysterious disappearance. Robert hadn't cared and Renly was cold towards Stannis for not inheriting Storm's End and becoming Lord Paramount of the Stormlands. Her brothers have become distant to each other, but remained warm towards her. It didn't make sense to her. She remembered when her mother was still alive. Back then, Lady Cassana had ruled with an iron fist, even demanding that her family met up once a month. No one could refuse her lady mother, for she was a woman to be reckoned with. Not even Robert, much to their amusement.

She yawned loudly and stood up on bare feet, already taking her clothes off as her eyes set sight on the boiling hot water, just like she requested. Rumours about her resistance against fire were generally spread but no one knew whether they were true or not. Neither did she care about such uselessness. But then again, the Smallfolk from Flea Bottom had nothing else to do. Lowering her naked body in the water, she moaned slightly at the amazing feeling. At times, she wondered if she even had a drop of Baratheon within her. Targaryen features and obsession with dragons and fire. It was a wonder Robert hadn't decapitated her by now. Truly.

Her dear brother may be a slightly better brother, but a good king he was not. Which is why she had requested to try changing this shithole known as King's Landing into a more prosperous capitol. Keyword, try. But first, she had matters to attend with Lady Miraand let her settle in from the long travel.

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By the time she had dressed herself, Jon had entered her room. He had given Steffon a day off to play around with Arya and Tommen, even Joffrey was taking Sansa out for a walk. Really, all the Baratheon siblings were starting to show splendid behaviour.

Joffrey seemed less like an evil demon, although at times she had heard disturbing things about him. For now, he was keeping his vicious, irrational temper down. Myrcella was faring much better, already taking a liking to her archery lessons, along with Sansa and Arya. She was too sweet a girl to be bullied by the likes of Joffrey. Even Tommen became less plump and took a more lean build. His shy demeanour was decreasing as well, his personality taking a huge difference. Along with Bran, the two were practising their swordsmanship, archery and even spear lessons. Elenys didn't know where that sudden interest came from, only that they had pleaded for her to find someone.

In the end, she had found a skilled spear-master to teach the two manipulating brats.

The Stark children were blossoming into beautiful, kind children as well. Ned has so less time, even less than her, that she had taken them under her wing. It was a promise that she had made to Catelyn and one she intended to keep. No one in this Keep would dare to hurt them since they were under her protection. She had even heard rumours that the people in Westeros feared the king's sister more than the king himself. All because of Saffyre. The presence of a dragon had strengthened Robert's grip on the kingdom, not that her dear brother really cared though. His interests were more drinking, whoring and hunting.

...even she pitied Cersei for enduring such humiliation.

"Elenys, are you alright?"

She shook her head and smiled softly, "I will be." Checking her appearance in her long mirror, she nodded in satisfaction and left the room with Jon.