Alys Oakheart stood at the edge of the balcony, looking out over the gardens of Sunspear as the sun began to dip below the horizon. The evening breeze swept through her hair, and she couldn’t shake the feeling that something had shifted in her.

She had come to Dorne to protect Myrcella Baratheon, but it was not just the princess who had captivated her. It was Arian Martell, the way he moved, the way his eyes held her gaze just a moment too long, the subtle curve of his lips when he smiled. He was a prince of Dorne, yet he made her feel as if she were the only one in the room.

Alys inhaled deeply, pushing away the thoughts that lingered in her mind. Her duty was clear. She was sworn to chastity as a member of the Kingsguard, her vows meant to protect the crown and its people. But why then, when Arian’s eyes met hers across a crowded room, did her resolve weaken?

She heard footsteps behind her, and before she could turn, a voice that had haunted her thoughts in recent days spoke from the shadows.