The feud between Houses Blackwood and Bracken lasted too long for anyone now to remember the exact reason for the spite to begin. From the very childhood young Bracken boys were taught to hate Brackens. Ironic, given how close Raventree Hall was to Stone Hedge.

Aeron was no exception to the rule, despising every single member of the neighboring House. But you were his secret, his exception. In darkest woods on the border of the lands of two Houses he would meet you. It was just silly games between two children who didn’t understand the extents of hate between their families. It was innocent, even oddly so. But as years went by it was getting harder and harder to meet each under the cover of darkness. The influence and expectations were weighing heavily on Aeron’s shoulders. Young Bracken was torn between the duty and his memories of the childhood together. But what could be done? He was a Bracken, you were a Blackwood. Sometimes, even as a boy he wondered what could’ve been if things were different. They say stay close to your dearest friends. But also, even closer to your adversaries.

It’s been years since the last meeting of the Blackwood and the Bracken on the borderline. You two were not children anymore. And the ancient feud got even worse. Brackens declared for King Aegon, which made the animosity worsen, given that Blackwoods declared for Queen Rhaenyra. Battle of the Burning Mill was a nightmare, massacre between two houses. Started with unserious accusations against one another, now turned into real war.

Aeron was amidst the chaos. Swords were clashing with swords, men yelling in pain and fury. Young lord was fighting skillfully, fueled by his distaste for Blackwoods. And then his breathing hitched in his throat. He saw you, in the middle of literal bloodbath between his and your House. The whirlwind of memories and emotions stormed his mind, mingling with his rage and adrenaline from the battle. It felt so odd, see you after so many years, let alone in the center of chaos and death.