The Princess' Chambers

[The Smith]

"An essay about the importance of trade to a kingdom." She replied.

[Lord Oswyn Baratheon]

"An important subject for a monarch to learn." he conceded, thinking that it was especially vital given the current political crisis. "Though such a dry subject should be left for a day less sunny." he added with a mischievous smile.

"I had a word with the Lord Commander regarding a possible sojourn in the Kingswood. You mentioned how you enjoyed an occasional stroll before it was deemed too dangerous by your protectors. He has agreed to assemble the appropriate escort if you are up for some fresh air."

[The Smith]

Rose nodded, "That is very kind of you." She opened her mouth and closed it again.

[Lord Oswyn Baratheon]

"I would not have to be included in that escort and will take no offense if you would prefer a solitary venture." he added, in response to her hesitance, though he knew she would never know again what it meant to be solitary.

[The Smith]

"I wish is was solitary." Rose replied. "No offense to you... I just loved those rides through the wood." She thought a moment, "If I am going to have twenty men, I might as well have you in the group."

[Lord Oswyn Baratheon]

"I can hardly fault you for that." he said with a chuckle. "I cannot count the number of times Ser Arthur and my father's men had to scour the Kingswood for me in my youth, having run off after the lessons and responsibilities of my station became too much to bear. I can only imagine your need for the same."

"I would be honored to join you then." he said with gratitude. "Whenever it suits Your Grace."

[The Smith]

"Tomorrow then?" Rose replied.

[Lord Oswyn Baratheon]

"I will look forward to it." he replied.

"Was there something else on your mind?"

[The Smith]

Rose shook her head, "No... nothing of consequence."

[Lord Oswyn Baratheon]

"I cannot remember the last time I spoke of a matter not of consequence." he said with a laugh. "Please, you would be doing me a favor, Your Grace."

[The Smith]

Her cheeks redden, "It would be a terribly embarrassing thing to speak of with a man."

[Lord Oswyn Baratheon]

"With all the embarrassment I've suffered since arriving in this fair city, I would say it is only proper to level the playing field a bit." he replied, self-deprecating humor apparent.

[The Smith]

Her cheeks turned even redder, "Surely you must know something of women?"

[The Smith]

Her cheeks turned even redder, "Surely you must know something of women?"

[Lord Oswyn Baratheon]

"I am beginning to see how woefully uneducated on the subject I am." he replied. "If you do not wish to enlighten me I will trouble you no further. A queen must have her secrets."