#oscartully

Oscar had found himself elevated as heir after his father passed away, and soon enough, he made more of his title when Lord Hoster Tully lost his claim to this world.

Knighted in battle, he became the Lord Paramount of his lands and the Lord of his ancestral keep, sworn lord by all vassals of his lands, young and old.

Ser Oscar of House Tully, Lord Paramount of the Riverlands and all River houses, was angry.

When he first came to Harrenhal to speak with Prince Daemon, the older man turned him away, dismissing him like a common cupbearer when he refused to speak on his grandfather’s behalf.

When Oscar returned again, with his title and army, the prince begrudgingly accepted the situation they found themselves in. Oscar needed the older, feared Targaryen prince to support his authority so the old, stubborn lords of the Riverlands would bend the knee to him. Daemon, in turn, desperately needed support from the Riverlands to combat the armies of Aegon.

The two reached an understanding and an agreement.

The official deal, sworn before the old gods and the new, was that Lord Tully and all the Riverlands would pledge their support to Queen Rhaynera and Daemon as her king consort, providing men, supplies, and support. In exchange, Daemon would ensure that a lord from the Riverlands would be promoted to a seat on the queen's council, and Queen Rhaynera’s daughter, Princess Valaena Targaryen, would be wed to Oscar, granting him a royal bride and a means to have heirs for House Tully.

But the war was long over, peace and normalcy restored. After months of regaining routine, nothing had come of any River lord's position, and there was no word about Oscar’s bride.

He had simmered in Riverrun, his anger only intensifying.

His ravens returned without scrolls.

His messengers were turned away.

He felt betrayed, belittled, humiliated, and ignored.

But Oscar had lost his patience.

So he gathered up his best and most trusted men from all corners of his lands, took his best horse and marched south to the capital.

When he arrived, unsurprisingly the gold cloaks were… confused and surprised.

But Oscar stayed strong and made his way through the city, his memories of the first time he’d come here flooding back, but he ignored it and made his way to the Red Keep.

“Lord Tully? We were not expecting you, Why is it you have graced us with your visit?” Ser Broom asked,

“I will speak to Daemon.” Oscar barked as he climbed down from his horse,

“My Lord-” Ser Broom rushed to follow him, “The King consort is with the Queen.”

“Perfect. I need a word with her too.”

“My- My lord-” He rushed behind him,

But Oscar was undeterred as he marched to the throne room where he found them.

Queen Rhaynera Targaryen sat on the throne, her father’s crown rested on her head, and King Consort Daemon Targaryen stood beside her his hand on his sword.

Oscar made his way through the grand doors and marched across the throne room, his boots loudly stomping across the room, but before either royals could say a word.

“I demand my bride!” his voice boomed through the throne room followed by a sharp silence,

“My Lord Tully, we are delighted to see you again.” She nodded, “But what is it you speak of?”

“I. Demand. My. Bride.” He repeated, “I have waited. I have been ignored. I was promised the hand of the princess and even after all I have done for your throne and this kingdom. I have been left empty-handed.”

“The princess?” She asked,

“Yes my queen, when I swore allegiance to your husband. We made an arrangement and oath he has not honoured. I was promised the hand the Princess Valaena Targaryen. And after I have been ignored and disrespected for near to a year after the war’s end, I come down to claim what I was promised.”

“Daemon swore the Princess Valaena to you?”

“He did.”

“Daemon. Is this true?”

“…Words were spoken. In the preparations of war to ensure our numbers.” Daemon answered her,

“Words of Sworn hands?!”

“Of an effect.”

“Daemon. You swore the hand of my only daughter. Without a word to me?”

“It. Was. Necessary.”

“And even in this year hence you have not told me?”

“Frankly, I believed it had fallen to the weight side.” He whispered, “Most boys return home from war with maidens flocking to their boots, I was under the impression He’d have neglected our deal.”

“I did not.” Oscar spoke up, “On the understanding a princess would soon arrive to me,”

“I see.” she sighed, “Forgive our discretion My Lord Tully, I was unaware that this deal had been made, and the messages had not reached me. But… are you sure this is what you want?”

“I am completely confident.” Oscar nodded, “I do not want any substitutions, any changes, the oath was sworn that I would supply my lords and men for the army, I swore my house to you and I demand this oath be answered with what I was promised.”

“I understand,” She nodded, she glared at Daemon but got to her feet adjusting her gown as she made her way down the stairs of the throne to be level with Oscar. “Valaena is my only daughter, she is… very precious to me.”

“I understand that my queen.”

“If I had known… this would not have been something I’d have agreed.” she said, “But… it has, and there is nothing I can now do. So I ask you, plainly to promise me that you will protect her.”

“I will.” Oscar nodded,

“Oscar,” she pleaded, “Promise me, that you will protect her, you will be good to her, kind to her, sweet with her, love her and cherish her. Promise me this, not as your queen, but as her mother.”

“You have my word.” He nodded, “I will cherish her, adore her, keep her safe with my life. I will give her all I am able, She will be my lady, my wife and I will love her with all of myself. I swear it.”

“Thank you,” she smiled, “I will pack her things and prepare her myself,” she nodded,

“Thank you, your grace.”

“Please, attend dinner tonight. We will all enjoy a feast together before you two leave.”

Oscar propped himself up on one elbow, his eyes gleamed with mischief as he took in the sight of Y/n. "Well now," he murmured, voice still rough from hours without use, "If I had known marrying a Targaryen princess would be this entertaining… I would have demanded we marry far earlier," His fingers ghosted along her bare shoulder where the sheets had slipped down. He leaned closer until his breath tickled her ear, "Tell me Darling, was this your plan all along? To sneak into my chambers and rob me blind while I slept?" He cooed, as he nipped lightly at her earlobe.

She hummed, but it didn't wake her, not fully.

He chuckled softly and shifted a bit closer. He draped his arm across her waist and began to trace his fingers along the smooth stretch of her back. He leaned in again, his voice lowered to a whisper. "You know, Darling… it is rather bold of you, sneaking into my bed." He pressed a kiss to the curve of her neck, his lips lingered there for a moment before he continued his path to her collarbone.

Y/n hummed and squirmed a little, but even though she was clearly waking up, she refused to open her eyes.

Oscar found her reluctance rather charming, but it only fueled his desire to tease further. He moved closer still, so their bodies were nearly flush together. He could feel the heat as it radiated off her, and it made him ache with want. "Playing coy, are we?" he murmured against her skin as his lips pressed kisses along her chest. His hand slid lower and traced patterns along the small of her back before he dropped to her hip and gave it a subtle squeeze.

She smiled and nuzzled herself under his chin as she happily burrowed into the cuddle.

He let out a quiet, exasperated laugh. He tightened his arms around her and pulled the blankets more securely over them both. "Oh no, you don’t," he muttered, "You do not get to burrow like some satisfied little dragon and expect me to just lie here." He growled as his fingers found the sensitive spot behind her ear, as he knew it was the one that always made her squirm, and he scratched lightly there. "Come now. Open those pretty violet eyes for me."

"Too tired…" Y/n whimpered,

"Too tired? Too tired?" He scoffed playfully, "You are the one who snuck into my bed like some thieving shadow-cat. And now you will just lie there and deny me?" His hand slid up under the hem of her nightgown, his fingers traced idle patterns along the curve of her thigh. "I think not."

"Oscar…" Y/n whimpered,

Oscar’s breath hitched, his fingers stilled for just a moment, eyes darkened as he took in the sight of her violet gaze as it finally flickered open to meet his.

Y/n had very big eyes, the classic Valyrian purple, which Oscar adored to tease her over; some sick dark desire within him knew that the strong Tully features would likely overpower hers, and all their children would have his eyes.

"Ah," he murmured, "there you are. Tell me to stop if you truly mean it… But I think we both know you won’t." He leaned up until their noses brushed against one another, "Or did my little dragon come here hoping I would wake up?"

She rubbed the tip of her nose against his, but tried to answer him.

"Such a sleepy little dragon," he murmured, "but still too tired to answer me, eh?" His hand wandered further up her thigh, and pushed her nightgown with it.

"Oscar… It's too early…" She whimpered as she felt him push her nightgown higher to her waist, so that it lingered around her hips, her ass cheek bare below the soft blue velvet of the covers.

"Too early for what, darling?" he growled, "It seems just the right time to me…" He pressed a trail of kisses down her neck, paused at her collarbone and traced it with the tip of his tongue.

She whimpered again,

Oscar’s fingers flexed against her bare hip before they slid lower, dipped lower to trace along the curve where thigh met ass. "Cold?" he murmured against her skin, "Or just feeling every inch you shouldn’t be?" As he pressed his palm flat against the heat between her thighs, his fingers didn’t waste a single second before he began to play with her in all the little cracks and crevices he knew drove his lady to desire, "Tell me what you want, little dragon."

Y/n whined and kicked her feet uncontrollably, "To sleep…" She whined as she began to pant as he pushed her on her back.

"To sleep?" He pressed his thumb hard against her clit just to watch her back arch off the bed, "Oh darling… You should know by now I don’t play fair." His free hand pinned both of hers above her head as he leaned down to bite at the delicate skin of her inner thigh. "Especially when my betrothed sneaks into my bed looking like this." He tossed aside the sheets, which left them in a bundle across the other side of the bed. He licked a slow stripe up through soaked fabric before he nipped at her clit, all without breaking eye contact with those wide violet eyes.

Y/n whined and choked back her scream, at his mercy laid out on the grand sheets like a dish to be served.

Oscar’s breath stuttered, as something primal surged through him at the sight. A Targaryen, writhing on his bed, in his ancestral sheets. The irony wasn’t lost on him that House Tully had once been mocked as one of the few noble houses that had not been kings in the days of the Andal kings and gifted with their titles and lands of note, to know now a Targaryen beauty of old Valyrian descent, laid out like a writhing whore in the very castle Axel build, the very bed every lord paramount had laid in since the conquest, where no doubt his own father, grandsire and Tully’s back for as far as their family tree went, were conceived and even birthed. But now, a Tully was on their knees for a Targaryen… for far different reasons.

His fingers dug into her hips as he dragged her hips flush against his, "Say it," he demanded hoarsely, forcing her nightgown up around her ribs, "Tell me who owns this pretty little cunt." He moved his hips in a hard thrust as he spoke the words, with only the thin fabric of his britches still between them.

She whimpered and whined, tried to hide her pitiful moans, "Oscar…"

Oscar leaned forward until his lips grazed the shell of her ear, "Try again, little dragon." He growled the words with a light bite to her earlobe, all while his fingers traced idle circles over her hips. "Up. On your knees, and face the headboard."

Y/n whined but obeyed, her face flushed red as she moved. She turned on her stomach and then began to sit up, but Oscar was impatient,

The sharp crack of his palm against her bare skin echoed through the chamber. Oscar’s breath came out in a harsh exhale, part frustration, part dark amusement as he watched her jolt forward. "Red already?" he mused, as he rubbed over the harsh mark with deliberate pressure before he landed another slap, harder this time. "You’ll match our house colours soon enough." His free hand yanked at the ties of his own breeches and pulled himself out, "Now be a good little wife and hold still." his grip on her hips tightened as he slammed into her to the hilt. The bed creaked under the movement, ancient wood groaned like it remembered every lord and lady who'd lain here before them. "Such a filthy little princess," he growled, as he dragged almost all the way out before he snapped back in, "Begging for it even while you cry." His thumb found that swollen bundle of nerves again and rubbed cruel circles as his thrusts grew faster.

Y/n screamed and moaned without a care who'd hear her, she knew Oscar had banned all guards from the solar so he could wreck his betrothed without accusations coming about her long-gone maidenhead. She began to tremble and muttered his name as she edged on release.

Oscar found himself almost dizzy with the desire to keep her, like a prized dragon in a cage. He wanted her so much it hurt, a pain that burned through him every time he saw her. His fingers dug deeper into her hips, and his words were almost as ragged as his breath now, "My little princess… all flushed and begging… on my family's bed… all for me…" The hand on her clit slid forward, fingers dancing down her stomach before his palm pressed flat over her stomach, where her womb was. As if claiming it, her. "Mine. You will be mine. Every inch of you, little dragon, mine." He leaned down, his lips brushed the shell of her ear. "Cum for me, Y/n." His words were a command, low and rough. "And I might just let you rest later."

Y/n immediately hit her release and screamed loudly, her mouth hung open and her eyes rolled back, tightened on him and squirted enough to soak his bed as her body trembled and shook.

The sound of her screaming in such exquisite pleasure, it made him mad, even more than usual. No one else would ever take her like this; no one ever would get the honour. She was his and his alone. To take, to claim. She was a dragon, of Valyrian blood, the princess of the Seven Kingdoms, and he would see her belly heavy with child after child, all of them with his blood in their veins.

Y/n almost collapsed, kept up only by Oscar's grip. When finally let her go. She slumped forward, pressed her face into the pillows, and was left as an utter mess.

He ran a soothing hand along her bare back. "Good girl," he murmured. He sounded almost gentle now, if not pleased with himself. "Rest for now, little dragon. You’ll need it."

She immediately fell asleep, exhausted, used and laid out naked on his ancestral bed like a gift from the gods.

Oscar watched her for a long moment. Before he climbed out of bed, he tossed on some clothes and prepared himself for the day, but before he left, he returned to the bed. He leaned down to press one last kiss to the nape of her neck. "Sleep well," he murmured, "you will need your strength for when I return."

Oscar, too, took in the appearance of his new wife. He looked over her body, well aware of what ceremony he would later have to do, his eyes flicking to her features, already doing genetic maths in his mind, to try and figure out which features his heirs would inherit from the Targaryen princess. But it did nothing for Oscar's nerves or guilt about this marriage. He merely held out his hand for hers.

She adjusted her gown slightly and slid her hand into his, doing her best not to grip too hard.

He squeezed her hand gently. He led her the last few steps, standing before the septon.

"We stand here in the sight of gods and men to witness the union of man and wife."

Y/n stayed silent, watching Oscar. She had no clue what she was supposed to say during a faith of the seven wedding ceremony as she'd only been to a single one her whole lifetime. So she was very much looking for Oscar to help her.

"Father, Smith, Warrior, Mother, Maiden, Crone, Stranger," Oscar nodded almost automatically at the moment it was needed,

The septon then looked down at Y/n, expecting the same. Oscar's eyes shifted to her, almost… reassuringly. She cleared her throat and slowly nodded her head as she spoke, doing her best to repeat it all in the right order. "Father, smith, warrior, mother, maiden, crone, stranger…” She said, looking to Oscar to make sure she got it right.

Oscar gave a small nod and a soft smile.

Upon the orders of the septon, Corlys removed Y/n’s maiden cloak. Removing the last shreds of her house colours and sigils, leaving her in her plain white gown.

Oscar’s hands slightly trembled as he removed his own cloak, the dusty cloak of house Tully notably heavy from how he handled it.

Y/n immediately noticed that Oscar was going to struggle slightly, so she dipped her knees just enough to make it easier for him to place the heavy cloak on her,

Once the cloak was on, Oscar lifted his hands to cradle her face. He could feel nerves fill his stomach as his eyes focused on her. He knew what was about to happen… yet couldn't help the feeling of butterflies. “W-with this kiss, I pledge my love. And take you as my lady wife.”

She nodded, “With this kiss, I pledge my love. And take you as my lord husband.”

He took a deep breath and leaned forward. His lips met hers as he kissed her.

She kissed back as softly as she could, trying to enjoy it, but she felt far too anxious.

"One flesh, one heart, one soul. Now and forever." The septon called out, “Lord and Lady Tully.” Met by applause of those in the sept.

He broke the kiss, albeit reluctantly. He couldn't help but marvel at her up close. He could feel a heat rise to his cheeks at the realisation she was now his bride. He let a small, lopsided smile show. "I suppose we're married now…" He murmured.

"I suppose so…" She agreed, squeezing his hand.

He looked up again, finding her eyes. "… are you alright?"

She nodded and offered Oscar an honest smile before they slowly made their way from the sept.

Of course, no one was waiting to celebrate with them, given that neither exactly had much family left in this world. And the time of the rushed wedding meant little could have been prepared anyway. There was no feast for them, as the war had already caused enough issues with the food supplies. Instead, a few highborn lords sat around the council chambers sipping wine.

Oscar's heart ached at the sight of the lacklustre reception. He had dreamed of the day he would marry a pretty bride. And here he was, married to Y/n… in a room with a few lords drinking. He kept a stoic face for the sake of his bride and himself in truth.

The only lords who even spoke to Oscar the whole night were Benjicot Blackwood and Cregan Stark, men he'd battled beside during the war. Benjicot, of course, made crude jokes, and Cregan actually did his best to offer wise counsel, himself in his second marriage. But as the night dragged on, Oscar's gaze kept drifting to Y/n. He couldn't help but notice the quiet discomfort on her face.

"Lucky sod you got to marry a Targaryen girl. But I suppose she won't hold a candle to that girl in Tumbler’s Salls, right, Oscar!" Benjicot laughed, bringing up the tavern wench in Tumbler’s Falls that Oscar got close to during the war; he never actually bedded her, but… May have bragged to his young friends that he did.

Y/n heard this, however, and immediately looked over.

Oscar felt a hot flush rise to his cheeks. He shot a subtle glare and spoke quietly. "Benjicot. Enough." He could feel Y/n's eyes on him. He knew she had heard every word.

Cregan led Benjicot away, assuming the young lord had already had way too much wine to drink, leaving Y/n and Oscar in a quiet silence.

Oscar let out a sigh of relief. He turned to face Y/n, their eyes meeting again. He could see the tension in her expression, the discomfort still ever present. He took a step closer to her, his hands clasped in front of him. He chose his words carefully, not wanting to add fuel to the fire. "Forgive Benjicot. He can be… tactless."

She nodded, sipping her wine. "It is… Getting late."

Oscar nodded in agreement, "Yes.. it is." He was silent for a moment before clearing his throat. He knew what was expected of a married couple on their wedding night. The thought alone made his nerves return.

"Shall we?" She asked carefully,

"Yes. We should." He responded, his voice somewhat tight with uncertainty. He reached out a hand to her. "Shall I… show you to the- our room?"

She nodded and downed the last of her wine before taking his hand. Letting Oscar lead her upstairs to the guest chamber Oscar had been given for his time in King's Landing, there was no bedding ceremony for them, but neither was going to complain about that.

He could feel the weight of expectation on his shoulders. As they walked up the stairwell, his mind was a jumble of thoughts and nerves. Was he supposed to say something? Was he supposed to… initiate anything? It was all so new and so unfamiliar. When they reached the guest chamber, Oscar pushed open the door. The room was modest, a small bed, a few chests, books and a window looking out over the city. He held the door open for her and gestured for her to enter.

Y/n went inside and immediately took off her shoes. She sat down on the edge of the bed and began to slowly take her hair from the intricate braids that had been done that morning.

Oscar closed the door behind them and leaned against it, watching her. He could feel his breath speed up slightly as he took in the sight of her. He swallowed quietly, trying to compose himself. He stopped when he stood directly in front of her, their bodies inches apart. "Here… let me help." He said quietly, motioning to her hair.

Y/n nodded, taking her hands away and turning so her back would face him as he sat in the bed beside her. She held the bedpost softly in her hand, almost like she was expecting him to hurt her.

Oscar could sense the hint of apprehension. It tugged at his heart, and he mentally berated himself for making her feel this way. He carefully gathered up her hair, his fingers gently unwinding the strands. "Just relax." He reassured quietly. He took his time, gently undoing her hair,

As the last tie was undone, her hair fell in loose waves around her shoulders. Oscar let the last of it fall through his fingers, savouring the feeling of the silky strands against his skin. He shifted a bit closer, his body now just behind her. His eyes traced the curves of her back, the faint outline of her shoulders beneath the fabric of her dress. "There… all done." He said quietly, his voice low and close to her ear,

"Thank you, lord Tully," she answered,

He leaned a bit closer, "You can… call me Oscar. You're my wife now."

She nodded, clearly still anxious. "May I… Ask you some things, Oscar?"

"Of course… You can ask me anything."

"How… How old are you?" She asked nervously,

He withdrew his hand from her hair and shifted a bit to face her. He looked her in the eyes as he answered honestly. He knew his age might seem youthful to her, and he braced himself for potential… judgement? Disinterest maybe. The moment the words fell from his lips, it was like all the air left the room.

She cursed a little, unable to help the small words of "oh gods." Falling from her lips.

"Is… is that a bad thing?" He questioned quietly, not quite meeting her eyes.

"I uhh… I suppose it doesn't matter…" She answered,

"You… you don't sound happy about it." He pointed out,

"Truly, I'm not thrilled … age gap in a marriage is never good… especially not this way around, I suppose my family has done far worse…"

"So I'm not your ideal choice then…" He replied, his voice a bit sharper than he intended.

"It is not you, Oscar." She softly smiled, taking his hand. "War has… left many complications."

He laced his fingers with hers, the contact grounding him a bit. "Still…" He murmured, his gaze falling to their joined hands, "I can't help but feel… inadequate."

"I am sorry if I made you feel that way. You are not an inadequate Oscar. If anything… It'll be nice when our children are grown, their father won't be some old coot."

He squeezed her hand lightly, a sense of relief washing over him as her words sank in. "You don't think me too young to be a father?" He asked tentatively, meeting her eyes again.

She chuckled. "No, my father was not that much older than you when I was born…"

"That's rather young."

"Targaryens are weird." She chuckled,

“You aren't wrong." He laughed, the nerves from before slowly ebbing away.

"Your father? Was he young when you were born?"

“Yes… he uhh… he was a very young man when I was born, barely much older when he died.”

“I’m sorry, Oscar-”

“It’s alright.” He reassured, “I didn’t know him much,”

“Were you close with your mother then?”

“No, never truly met her.”

She nodded. "They married young?"

"Yes… They were quite young when they got married, likely too young for it." A soft, sombre smile touched his lips as he spoke.

"Forgive me…"

He shook his head, "There's nothing to apologise for." He said softly, his eyes finding hers again,

"I had heard tales... About your grandsire. My grandsire spoke of him often. I think they were once... Friendly."

"Your grandsire spoke of my grandsire?" He questioned,

She nodded. "They both served on King Jahaerys' council, at one point together."

"I… I had no idea. I didn't know they had served together."

"Did he never tell you?" She asked,

Oscar shook his head, "No, he… he never mentioned it." He said quietly,

"Forgive me, I didn't -"

"No, please don't apologise. You did nothing wrong."

"I… Am I to guess that, when we eventually have boys?" She asked, "You would like to reuse your father and grandsire’s names?"

"Yes… I would like to."

She nodded, "and… A daughter, I would like one to be… Named for my mother."

A small smile appeared on Oscar's face, "The king consort is too kind, he saved my life many a time on the field, as I am sure I did his."

"I have no doubts. I'm sure you will make a good match for our sister." Baela nodded,

“Thank you, Princess.” Oscar nodded and took a small drink of his own. He knew they would be protective of their sister; truly, with dragonrider in-laws, if Oscar ever displeased her, he was a dead man. "I promise I will treat Princess Valaena well."

Before anyone could say another word, Queen Rhaenyra entered wearing an intensely black ballgown, her king consort Daemon Targaryen at her side, dark sister at his hip.

Oscar bowed low immediately as the royal couple came into the room, "Your grace."

"Rise Ser Oscar." She smiled softly, offering her hand,

"You look beautiful, my queen."

"Thank you, lord Tully. Tonight is a very important night, as I'm sure you need not be reminded. Paying off the debts forged in the war is a matter very close to my heart. Even if it means tonight will be my final dinner with my daughter."

He couldn't help but swallow hard, "Of course, your grace, tonight is a momentous occasion."

Rhaenyra nodded and took her seat at the table with help from her son, Jacaerys.

Daemon glared down at Oscar as he once had in Harrenhal before the war truly began. They'd been through so much together, battled side by side and now Oscar was here to take his daughter away. "You've grown." He snapped sarcastically,

"I was young, boys do have a tendency to grow," he replied back, not missing a beat.

He scoffed. "You carved up Cristen Coles' men pretty well, regardless."

"I learned from the best." he quipped back, though his nervousness was leaving, the tension in the room was only growing.

Daemon nodded and slapped Oscar's shoulder before he went to take his seat beside his wife.

But just as Oscar went to join the table. The doors opened again, and there she was. The princess Valaena Targaryen made her way into the chamber,

She had soft, pale skin, dusted with small freckles, deep purple eyes, almost black, a long braid of dark hair much like Jacaerys but with ripples of bright Targaryen blonde throughout. She has a scar going down he forehead, across her eye and down her cheek, her eye was unharmed, and the scar clearly long healed. She wore a deep red dress, a Targaryen colour of course, but this gown was slightly duller, especially when compared to the rest of her family. She was wearing mud red or as close as she could get to it, which was a Tully colour.

"Ser Oscar, lord paramount of the riverlands. It is a pleasure." She bowed.

His eyes widened, and he tried not to gawk, but Oscar found it rather difficult. He took a small step forward, his eyes scanning her up and down, taking in the princess's appearance. Before he caught himself and snapped from his trance. "My- my princess," he choked, focusing longer on the ‘My’ shocked that this was truly here, this was this princess, the girl he’d been promised what seemed like an age ago. Oscar took her hand and brought it to his lips. he let his lips stay there for a moment longer before he lifted his head back up, his eyes not leaving Valaena's as he stared down at her. "You look beautiful."

She softly blushed. "Thank you, my lord. I would be remiss if I didn't thank you for coming all this way to collect me."

He chuckled softly and shook his head. "How could I possibly refuse?" he joked, "The journey was quite alright, my princess, though I would travel any distance to see you."

She smiled, "That is kind of you to say, and we shall take such a journey together? In return to riverrun by dawn's light?"

"Of course, my princess," he said, still staring at her. "Though there is something I must ask."

"Yes, my lord Tully?"

"You're wearing Riverlands colours, my princess," he said, his hand slipping to her hip to feel the soft fabric, “By accident?”

Valaena blushed at his hand meeting her hip, luckily, her family was distracted in conversation, knowing Daemon would cut off Oscar's hands if they were spotted. "By purpose, my lord." She nodded, "Does this displease you? Perhaps is it presumptuous?"

"Quite the opposite," he said, "I like them on you very much."

She smiled. "I hope perhaps when I arrive to Riverrun there may be some dresses for me, prepared in Tully colours and Sigils?"

"Of course, my princess, anything you request." He smiled and nodded, his eyes scanning over her once again. "But not too many dresses, I want to be able to admire you properly."

Valaena giggled slightly before she went and took her seat at the table with her family. An empty chair was already there for Oscar to take.

Yet, amid the chaos and mounting tension, two of the youngest lords found themselves absorbed in pursuits far removed from the grim realities of war.

Lord Oscar of House Tully leaned casually against the rough-hewn wooden posts of the training yard, where the clash of swords echoed in the air. He couldn't help but feel the stirring excitement.

Lord Benjicot of House Blackwood perched on the weathered wooden fence, the rough grain digging slightly into his palms.

Both slack-jawed and wide-eyed as they beheld a tantalizing sight unfolding before them. The sun hung low in the sky, casting golden rays that flickered through the lush canopy of ancient trees, creating a dappled pattern on the ground. In the clearing beyond, a rare creature moved gracefully.

The Princess Eliza of House Targaryen, Daemon’s youngest daughter.

She was tall for her age, her body already well matured. Her skin boasted a rich, coppery hue, reminiscent of sun-warmed earth after a summer rain, drawing the admiration of the boys around her who often likened it to the comforting warmth of chocolate melting in their cups on cool evenings in the riverlands. Her striking hair cascaded in strong, wild curls, radiant Targaryen blonde intertwined with deep Baratheon black, styled with an intricate array of tight braids and weaves adorned with vibrant red and blue ribbons that framed her face. A long central braid extended down her back, accentuated in a daring faux hawk style.

She donned form-fitting black leather britches that hugged her legs, paired with sturdy knee-high boots. A striking red dress, featuring an asymmetrical hem that flowed with each movement.

As she danced across the yard, her movements were fluid and fierce, embodying both grace and ferocity. She wielded two large battle axes with ease, each weapon expertly crafted and balanced, their long hilts designed for a secure grip. The blades were uniquely shaped like teardrops, crafted from Vaylrian steel and tipped with razor-sharp dragonglass, making them not just beautiful but deadly. With each swing, she smashed her targets with the precision of a master, shattering them like fragile eggshells in a display of skill and power that left the young lords captivated.

Understandably, both boys were pretty damn taken with her!

Oscar literally drooling over her, and Benjicot needed to make a conscious effort to blink.

“She… is…” Benjicot gasped,

“Breathtaking.” Oscar finished for him,

“I was gonna say Gorgeous, but breathtaking works too.”

“Yeah… Gorgeous, Beautiful, Stunning, Captivating, Ravishing, Exquisite, Enchanting.”

“All of the above.”

“And could literally destroy us before we even got a chance to scream.”

“Before we even blink, she could call her dragon and have us burnt to ashes.”

“And I would thank her.” Oscar nodded,

“I would get on my knees and thank her with my whole heart.” Benjicott sighed happily, “There must be gods in this world, for only a god could make a woman so… utterly immaculate.”

“And yet the gods are so cruel as to make her a Princess… far beyond the reach of any of us.”

“Ummm,” Benjicot nodded, “I would walk to Valyria and back just to….”

“To?”

“Anything, honestly.”

“Not sure, I’d go that far…”

“What if you get to see her naked?”

“Oh - Fuck - I’ll leave tomorrow.” Oscar nodded. “Don’t say stuff like that, Ben.”

“She can’t hear me.”

“I meant more… this armour was made very short notice… I… don’t have alot of… room for expansion, and what I do is already! Being used!”

“We… we are gonna struggle in this war.” he sighed, but he flinched hard as one of the princess’s throwing blades stuck into the wooden fence between his legs. “Ahh!” He almost fell off the fence grabbing onto Oscar desperately.

Both boys gasped hard as their hearts raced.

“What are you little lords talking about?” She asked, coming closer,

“Ughhhhhhh we ughhhhhh…”

“Uuuuummmm we uhh- Just… nothing.”

“Shouldn’t you boys get back to your armies?” she playfully smirked, yanking the blade out from between Benjicott’s legs.

“Ohh ubh we um yeah- yes we should.” Benjicott nodded,

“We, uhhh we’ll uhh we’ll see you later, Princess.” Oscar waved,

She smirked tossing her weapons onto her back, “I’m sure I will, little lords.” She blew them both a little kiss before she turned and hopped over the fence. “Geros ilas,” she waved before she headed up to the castle,

“My-My gods…” Benjicot gasped,

“I- I can’t believe it.”

“She-She kissed me.”

“You!” Oscar protested. “She blew that kiss, to me!”

“No! She threw the knife at me! She blew the kiss to me!”

“No! No way! She threw the knife at ‘you’, she blew ‘me’ the kiss!”

“Even if she did! You think you have a shot?”

“Why wouldn’t I?”

“... Do I need to speak? Or is me looking at you enough?”

“What the fuck Ben!”

“I don’t mean it like that.”

“I’m older than you.”

“Not by that much!”

“Still am Benji.”

“Ignoring that fact, daemon hates you.”

“He doesn’t hate me…”

“He always looks like he might kill you, given that whole godswood business.”

“We came to a mutual understanding.”

“He doesn’t like you and will certainly not like you sniffing around his daughter.”

“Regardless. I am lord Paramount of the riverlands, Lord of house Tully. I have a better chance than you.”

“Ohh really? You truly think you have a shot.”

“I think I do.”

“Fine.” Benjicot hopped down from the fence and got nose to nose with Oscar, “When I get to kiss her, on the lips. With her consent. You have to back off, Tully trout tail between your legs.”

Oscar raised an eyebrow. “Alright, you wanna play it like this?” He asked, “Fine, if by some old god’s magic you manage to get a kiss first, I’ll back off, but when I get the first kiss, you have to back off.”

“Deal.”

“Deal.”

Oscar met Daemon's gaze unflinchingly, his voice confident and steady. "By demonstrating that my loyalty and dedication to the Crown are unwavering. The Tullys, and the entire riverlands, are dedicated to the prosperity and stability of the realm," Oscar paused for a moment, his eyes never leaving Daemon's. "I and my kin shall always remain devoted vassals of the Crown and loyal friends to its rulers."

"Kin?" Daemon scoffed "Forgive me, your grandfather is dead. As is your father and brothers. You are the only Tully left in this world."

Oscar's jaw tightened slightly, but he didn't let Daemon's words get the better of him. "Indeed, my Lord, I am the last living Tully," he admitted, his voice steady and calm. "But I carry the legacy of my family and the weight of its responsibilities with unwavering determination." His gaze did not waver as he spoke with conviction, "And I shall uphold the honor of House Tully and the Riverlands, no matter the cost."

Daemon chuckled "Do you swear your army, and the vassals of all he riverlands to me?"

Oscar stood a bit straighter, his voice steady and resolute. "I do swear by the Old Gods and the New," he began, "That my army and the allies of the riverlands shall stand as loyal vassals to the Crown and its rulers." His expression remained unwavering, his determination evident in his every word. "House Tully and the riverlords shall offer unwavering support in times of both peace and war… for a price."

"a price?" Daemon scoffed "speak it."

Oscar took a moment to steady himself, his eyes never leaving Daemon's. He had planned for this moment, and the price demanded. "I ask for a seat on your council, my Lord," he began, his voice clear and resolute. "To provide council and strategic insight from the perspective of the riverlands." He paused for a moment, his gaze unwavering, then continued "Additionally, I seek a marriage alliance, my Lord. A union between Houses Tully and Targaryen."

Daemon softly nodded around the request for a council seat knowing the queen's council will need the riverlands lord paramount sat on it but he stopped short at the request for marriage Daemon scoffed and shook his head. Without even needing to look back at oscar he spoke "… Y/n."

Oscar's heart skipped a beat at the sound of her name, but he quickly regained his composure. Despite the surge of emotions coursing through him, he kept a neutral expression, trying to hide the mix of excitement and anxiety that washed over him. When Daemon spoke of Y/n, Oscar's pulse quickened, his mind racing with anticipation. He met Daemon's gaze, his eyes betraying a hint of excitement, but his voice remained steady. "My Lord," he began, his voice tinged with a touch of eagerness he couldn't quite hide. "Y/n?"

"she's who you want. Isn't she?" Daemon barked

Oscar's heart raced, his mind in turmoil. He managed to compose himself, his voice steady despite the whirlwind of emotions churning inside him. He met Daemon's gaze, holding it firmly. After a brief pause, he responded, his voice steady to mask the maelstrom of feelings threatening to spill out. "Yes… she is."

Daemon leant his hands against the table and let out a sigh "I assume this is not negotiable? I can't toss you seara or beala?"

Oscar shook his head, his voice firm and unwavering. "No, my Lord. It is Y/n I desire and no other." He paused for a moment, allowing the weight of his words to sink in before continuing. His eyes searched Daemon's face, hoping to read his reaction, yet he kept his emotions in check.

he sighed "and I take it? No Y/n. No army?"

Oscar nodded once more, his heart racing, but his face betraying none of his inner turmoil. He kept his voice steady as he answered. "No Y/n, no army," he responded, his tone steady but resolute.

Daemon cursed. "…fine." he said through gritted teeth

Oscar's heart leaped within his chest at Daemon's reluctant agreement. He struggled to contain his excitement as he responded, his voice steady and controlled. "Thank you, my Lord," he replied, managing to suppress any hint of triumph or relief from his voice. His heart thudding against his ribcage, Oscar maintained a stoic expression, all the while his mind raced with the implications of this agreement. He took a deep breath, attempting to calm himself, and waited for Daemon's next words.

"But! If you fall in battle I take her back. You sustain a single injury in this war that would risk the line of Tully you will not wed her." Daemon explained "… Dragonstone will only supply a single dragon egg per child. Y/n may visit dragonstone to choose one for each of your babes. And if by ten those eggs haven't hatched then are to return to dragonstone."

Oscar nodded slowly, processing Daemon's conditions. Though the stipulations grated on him, he knew it was a fair bargain and a necessary sacrifice. his expression serious and earnest. "I agree, my Lord," he said, his voice steady and resolute. His heart yearned for Y/n, and despite the restrictions, he was willing to give up much to make her his bride. He took a deep breath, steadying himself before speaking again. "Anything to marry Y/n…"

"… Agreed. Lord strong will make up the arrangement in writing tonight. But as my word you have the right." Daemon nodded "you will be wed once the war is over."

Oscar's heart soared at Daemon's words, his mind racing with excitement and anticipation. He managed to keep his expression composed, though a small smile tugged at the corners of his lips. He nodded, accepting Daemon's terms. "Agreed, my Lord," he replied, his voice steady despite the surge of emotions coursing through him. "I will await the formal arrangement in writing, and once the war is won, I shall have the honor of calling Y/n my wife."

"and you shall be my son in law." Daemon sighed clutching his swords hilt. "I don't forward to the midwinters." He barked as he marched out

Oscar watched as Daemon stormed out of the room, his mind racing with conflicting emotions. The realization of his imminent marriage to Y/n filled him with joy, yet the thought of Daemon's presence during the midwinters dampened his spirits. He took a deep breath, attempting to calm himself. Despite the challenges ahead, his heart was set on Y/n, and he would do whatever it took to make her his bride…

As the day wore on, the thought of seeing Y/n soon filled Oscar's mind. He couldn't wait to share the news with her, to finally confess his feelings for her. He made his way through the halls, his heart pounding, desperately hoping to catch a glimpse of her. Finally, he spotted her walking down the corridor, her long, silvery hair flowing behind her. Oscar watched from a safe distance as she walked towards the kitchen, her light purple gown hugging her form in a way that made his heart skip a beat. He took a deep breath, a hint of nervousness creeping up, but he pushed it aside. He watched her entering the kitchen, checking on the muffins, and humming to herself. She looked beautiful, carefree and unguarded, and the sight only made his heart race faster. He stood there debating what to do, his mind racing. Should he approach her now? But what would he say? How would she react? He took a deep breath, steadying himself for what was to come. Finally, he decided it was now or never. He took a few steps forward, his heart pounding, and announced himself with a tentative call, "Y/n?"

"hum?" She turned to see him "oh! Lord Tully. Good afternoon." She curtsied "you're just arriving at the perfect time. It's muffin time!" She smiled pulling her muffins from the ovens flames sittings them on the table

Oscar's heart skipped a beat as she turned and curtsied, her smile sending a jolt of excitement through him. He watched her place the muffins on the table, his mind a jumbled mess of emotions. He took a deep breath, trying to find his words, before finally managing to speak… "Good afternoon, Y/n," he replied, his voice a bit shaky from the nerves. "Yes, just…" He stopped, his gaze locked on her, unable to tear himself away… His heart thundered in his chest as he looked at her, standing there so casually in her gown, carefree and radiant. The sight of her, so close yet so far, made his resolve falter for a moment. He swallowed hard, forcing himself to remain calm. He couldn't risk losing his chance. After a moment, he finally found his voice once more. "May I have a word with you?"

"yes of course lord paramount." She giggled as she unpacked the muffins from the tray to cool

He watched as she unpacked the muffins, his heart racing with anticipation. He knew he had to say something, but the words were proving elusive. He took a deep breath, steadying himself, and finally spoke "I wanted to speak with you about something important," he began, his voice steady, though his heart was anything but. He dared a glimpse at her, his eyes locking onto hers, searching for any hints of how she would react to what he was about to say…

"oh? What is it?" She asked brushing off her hands

His heart thumped in his chest as she looked at him with curiosity. He took a moment to gather his thoughts before answering. "It's… It's about our future, and…" He trailed off, his mind racing. He couldn't believe he was finally about to tell her how he felt. He swallowed hard, his mouth suddenly dry, and forced himself to continue. "And about us…" he managed to say, his voice barely above a whisper. He clenched his fists, his entire body tense, as he waited for her reaction. The silence that followed seemed to stretch on interminably…

"oh? Do not keep me in suspense then my lord"

He took a deep breath, his heart pounding even harder now. He met her gaze, his eyes locking onto hers. The moment had come, and there was no turning back now. "I… I need to tell you something," he began, his voice shaking slightly despite his best efforts to remain composed. He paused for a moment, searching her face for any sign that she already knew what he was about to say. When she didn't say anything, he continued, the words spilling out in a rush. "I… I have feelings for you, Y/n. Strong… intense feelings. I can't help it even if I wanted to. You've captured my heart, and…I can't imagine my life without you."

"oh… That's so sweet." She cooed. "I can't imagine life without you either."

Oscar's heart soared at her response. Her words sent a wave of relief and joy coursing through him, and he struggled to maintain his composure. He couldn't believe it… she felt the same way. After everything that had happened, after all the struggles, they had found their way to one another. He felt as though he could burst with happiness. A smile tugged at the corners of his lips, and he dared to take a step closer to her, "So you… you feel the same way?"

she nodded

His heart almost stopped at her nod. He couldn't believe this was happening, that she truly shared his feelings. It was all he could do to contain his joy as he took another step closer to her, closing the gap between them until he stood merely inches away from her. He reached out and gently took her hand in his, holding it tightly as he looked into her eyes, his face flushed with happiness and anticipation. "Do you… do you want to be with me?"

"of course I do." She smiled "it's such a shame…" She said sadly "I know my father would never allow such things"

"I've… I've spoken to your father," he continued, his eyes locked onto hers. "And… he's given me permission to marry you."

"Wh-what?!"

Oscar smiled, his heart swelling with happiness at her reaction. He squeezed her hand gently, his eyes locked onto hers. "You heard me correctly," he confirmed, his voice steady despite the butterflies in his stomach. "Your father has given me permission to marry you. We can be together, Y/n. Truly together, as man and wife."

without him needing to say another word Y/n leapt into Oscar's arms wrapping her arms around his neck and basically forcing him to catch her in his arms as she pressed her lips to his caressing his cheek to keep their kiss locked.

He stumbled backward a bit from the force of her leap, but he caught her in his arms, holding her tightly against him as their lips met in a passionate kiss. His heart raced in his chest, the feeling of her body pressed against his overwhelming him with a rush of joy and desire. He returned the kiss with fervor, his arms encircling her waist, pulling her even closer as he deepened the kiss, letting himself get lost in the moment.

As their kiss continued, Oscar could barely breathe. The feeling of her in his arms was intoxicating, and he wanted nothing more than to savor every second of this moment. His hand ran up her back, tangling in her silvery hair, holding her tightly against him as he devoured her lips. Finally, he reluctantly pulled away, pulling back just far enough to catch his breath and look up at her. His heart was pounding, and he couldn't help the smile that spread across his face.

Y/n smiled and nuzzled her nose into Oscar's chest pressing herself fully into his armour "hummmm hubby"

His heart skipped a beat at her affectionate nuzzling, and he chuckled softly, the sound rumbling in his chest. He held her close, his hand rubbing small soothing circles on her back. "Hubby, is it?" he teased, his voice light and playful. He tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, his gaze fixed on her. "I like the sound of that… wifey." He leaned down to press a gentle kiss to the top of her head, breathing in the scent of her hair. He could hardly believe this was real, that the woman he loved was in his arms, calling him her 'hubby' and nuzzling against his chest. This was the happiest moment of his life, and he never wanted it to end. He held her close, savoring the feeling of her body pressed against his, and whispering low, so only she could hear. "You're mine now."

"mhm." She agreed "all yours my sweet hubby. Umm oscar darling" she cooed basically settling on his pet names that he'd now likely have for the rest of their lives

A small, satisfied smile tugged at the corners of his lips as she settled on the pet names, her voice as sweet as honey. He was almost giddy with happiness, his heart swelling in his chest at the sound of her calling him her 'hubby'. It was a feeling unlike anything he'd ever experienced, and he relished it, drawing her even closer to him. "That's right," he murmured, his voice low in her ear, "All mine… my sweet wifey."

Y/n giggled finally pulling back with her wide smile continuing with her baking "when will we be getting married? Soon? Of course we'll be living in riverrun! Will we get married in riverrun? Ooh will I get a pretty dress in Tully blue? Or I could make a nice mid red with some silver fishes on the dress! Oohh astorn will be so happy flying around Riverrun all day everyday. He loves the water! Will we get to share a nice big bedroom? And of course as your the last Tully lord we'll have to get to work on lots of little Tully fishes." She rattled off a hundred questions in her excitement finishing off by taking a cool muffin and without warning stuffing it into oscars mouth like he was a suckling pig

He was left momentarily stunned by her barrage of questions, each one firing faster than he could respond. He could barely get a word in before she'd moved on to the next without missing a beat. And just as he was about to answer, she stuffed a muffin in his mouth, effectively cutting off his response mid-sentence. He laughed, amused by her antics as he chewed the muffin, his eyes sparkling with affection. "Slow down," he managed to say once he'd swallowed the food in his mouth, "One question at a time, love."

"sorry. I'm just so excited!"

He chuckled again, charmed by her exuberance. He understood her excitement, he felt the same way, though he was better at holding it in. He looked at her, a fond smile on his face. "It's alright," he reassured her. "I'm excited too, love. And to answer your questions… yes, we'll be getting married soon, probably as soon as we can arrange it. We'll be living in Riverrun, where we'll be married, and you can wear a pretty Tully-blue dress if you want. Astorn will love flying around Riverrun…" He cooed, "…and yes, we'll have a nice big bedroom and make all the little Tully fishes you want." He reached for her hand, pulling her back closer to him, his gaze locked onto hers. "Now, are there any more questions, or can I get a word in?" He asked, his tone a mix of amusement and affection.

"That's all I think"

He smiled, relieved that the onslaught of questions was over, at least for the moment. "Good," he replied, his hand coming up to gently brush a strand of hair from her forehead. "Because now it's my turn to ask you something."

"Oh?"

He nodded, his expression serious for the first time since she'd jumped into his arms. He held her hand tightly, his heart racing as he spoke. "I need to know the most important thing of all… the one thing I have to know before we get married and embark on our future together." He looked into her eyes, his gaze intent, as he spoke in a low, intense voice. "Will you… promise to make plenty of these muffins after we're married? I can't imagine my life without them now, and I need to know you'll keep me well supplied."

Y/n giggled "all the muffins you desire, Oscar darling." She cooed kissing his nose

His heart skipped a beat as she kissed his nose, his smile widening into a grin. He loved the feeling of her lips against his skin, and his hand found its way to the small of her back, pulling her closer. "That's all I needed to hear," he teased, his voice low and amused. "Now, I have only one condition…" He watched as she tilted her head to the side, looking up at him curiously, intrigued by his mention of a 'condition'. His heart raced as he spoke, his hand still resting on the small of her back. "I need to know I'll always get some kisses, first thing in the morning, before you sneak away to bake your muffins.."

She giggled exciedtly,

"Yes," he confirmed, his hand sliding lower down her back. "I want to be able to wake up next to you every morning, without worrying that you'll sneak away to the kitchens before I even have a chance to open my eyes."

"I promise." She cooed

His lips curled into a smile, his heart swelling with a mix of affection and desire. The thought of waking up next to her every morning, her silvery hair spread out on the pillow, her body warm against his. "Good," he said, his voice growing huskier as his hand slid even lower, "because I plan on being rather… insistent in the mornings."

"insistent? What will my hubby be insistent on?"

The fire always lit warmly, her bed loaded with half the blankets in Riverrun, Oscar had ensured her windows be sealed and locked to keep in the heat and to prevent any… unfortunately, accidents. Her body was dried and given a new, clean white nightgown, her hair cleaned and covered with a cotton hood to match her new nightgown, and her skin was pale and often lifeless. Y/n slept for days, with only the maester visiting her.

Oscar paced the corridors outside her chambers like a caged beast, his hands clenching and unclenching at his sides. He wanted, no, needed to see her. "Let me in," he demanded one night, "I won’t stay long, I just need to know she's alright."

Begrudgingly they allowed him to enter,

He stepped quietly into her chambers, his eyes landing immediately on Y/n's form. He slowly crossed to her bed, sitting beside her gently. He reached out as if to touch her, but stopped mere centimeters from her skin. "Y/n," he whispered, "can you hear me, my sweet lady?"

Her eyes slowly opened and she scanned the canopy of her bed before she saw Oscar.

"You're alive," he breathed out, more relief than words as he reached for her hand cautiously, "You… you scared me."

"Not for lack of trying." She said her voice ragged and shredded.

Oscar's breath hitched in his chest. Hearing her raspy voice was like a physical blow to his gut. He could sense her pain, both from nearly drowning and the lingering coughs that still plagued her. "Don't joke about that," he whispered gruffly, gently running his thumb across the back of her hand.

"I am not… I did not jump from that tower for your amusement… I wished for death… And even that you would not give me Oscar."

He flinched at her words, his grip tightening on her hand. "I didn't take your death away for amusement," he said quietly, "I took it because I refuse to let you go."

"You get to decide even when I embrace the gods, do you?"

Oscar's jaw clenched. He knew she was hurting—physically and mentally. He knew she was lashing out. His tone hardened as he leaned closer, not letting go of her hand. "That's not fair. Do you have any idea how it felt to think I'd lost you?"

Y/n looked away. "Yes… The maidens told me… Of your panicked orders…"

"Then you should know," he said quietly, "That I wouldn't have let go even if it meant drowning with you."

"They said you pulled me from the water yourself?"

"I did,"

"You cut my hair."

"Yes. I… I had to. It was tangled in the iron poles of the gate. There wasn't any other way to free you."

She slowly nodded. "Must you have made me so ugly in the act of saving me?" She half-joked.

He bit his lip, his voice quiet, guilt lacing his words. "You could never be ugly to me, my sweet."

Y/n hummed, still unhappy that she had survived, but with a strange joy that Oscar had been the one to save her. "Then how are we to continue?" She asked, finally meeting his eyes again. "Am I to be locked on your wrist for fear I jump from another window?"

Oscar exhaled sharply, his grip tightening around her hand before he forced himself to relax. "No," he said firmly, "You're not a prisoner. But I need you alive. And… if we can't have what you want? Then tell me what will make this bearable for you."

"You need me alive." She repeated a vile tone to her voice. "I am a prisoner only allowed to die when you decree it."

"No," he said, "You're not a prisoner, you're my wife. And I don't want you dead… but I also won’t force you into some miserable life that makes you wish for it again." He clenched his teeth, the next words coming out in a shaky whisper, tears in his eyes, "Do you even want to have a life here with me?"

"… I did." She admitted, "But I fear the life I want… Heaven for me would be hell for you and vice versa."

"Then what do we do?"

"I do not know."

"Tell me what you need," he said finally, "And I’ll try."

"I want… A husband that loves me, who is glad to see me, who wishes to spend his life beside me, who will share a chamber with me, and a bed, who'll never take another woman for pleasure. I want children, that as babes will sleep at our feet, who I feed from my breast and you love endlessly. That they only leave our chamber when they are old enough, or we have more children. That them and their siblings will share a chamber together, train together, spend their evenings at dinner tables and firesides with their parents." She explained. "I do not want this life as a lady wife… Where I see you once a week, we do our duty and nothing else, where my babes are taken, by nursemaids, seconds from birth, they grow in a nursery only to be brought out for court and celebrations. I want a husband, Oscar and a family… Is that so much to ask of you?"

Oscar was quiet as she spoke. The visions of family she was describing… he had to admit, the image made his heart ache. It was not a life he knew; his family was one of the noble houses of the realm, and he was used to nursemaids, nurseries, chambers and duty not… what she desired. He swallowed hard, looking into her eyes. "No… No, it's not too much to ask."

"But I want you to want this… Not agreeing to it because you are afraid I will leap from a tower if you deny me."

"I don't hate the idea," he admitted quietly, "But it’s… unfamiliar. And I can be selfish sometimes."

"Regardless of what I want… What would be your perfect picture of our marriage?"

"I suppose…" he began carefully, "I never imagined sharing a bed with anyone permanently. Or having children underfoot. I assumed my duty done, and perhaps in time affection, but… But… if you're happy? Then I can adjust." He squeezed her hand lightly, the ghost of a smirk on his face when he spoke again, "And I suppose I don't mind the idea of seeing you round with my child."

Y/n nodded slowly. "Oscar…" She began gripping his hand with what little strength she had. "If there is anything you cannot give me… Tell me now. Do not let me live in hope, or allow me later to find your lies and secrets. If there is anything I ask you cannot give me. Tell me."

Oscar's throat tightened as she gripped his hand, his heart skipping a beat in his chest. "There is… one thing I can't give you." He hesitated, his jaw tightening as he struggled to put it into words. "The children," he admitted quietly, "Raising them like that. The way you described. I was raised in court, children were always sent off to nursemaids and tutors the second they could walk. I don't know how else to do it."

"But would you try? For me?"

"For you?" he murmured, "I'll try my sweet."

She nodded with a faint smile. "I do not ask you to educate them yourself, nor would I ask the lord paramount of the riverlands to change a cloth nappy… But I ask the baby stay in our room in a crib at our feet. That I may nurse them, never a maid. Tutors take them during the days, septars care for them when they are older. Once they are off the breast, they can move to a room of their own. That is all."

"That…" he said quietly, "… That I can give you. Though I make no promises about not complaining when the baby wakes us up at night."

"nor will I." She chuckled,

He huffed out a quiet laugh, his fingers lacing through hers as he leaned closer. He could already picture it, their room filled with the soft sounds of a child, Y/n nursing them by the fire while he pretended to read scrolls but mostly just watched her. "Then we have an agreement," he murmured, "No nursemaids. Just us… and our little storm."

"…thank you, Iscar." She softly smiled. "For saving me… And for trying."

Oscar's heart twisted at the sincerity in her smile, his hand tightening around hers as an overwhelming rush of warmth spread through him. He wanted that smile to stay, to grow. And in that moment, he realised he'd do anything to keep his wife safe and happy.

"Of course," he said quietly, his voice almost a whisper, "I'd do it all again. And so much more for you, my sweet lady." he leant down and softly kissed her forehead, “Now rest, you have had quite a time of things.”

“You will be here when I wake?”