Daeron and Aegon are missing. Maekar knew it the moment the horses trotted onto Ashford grass. That's the problem with sons, he thinks bitterly, and with fear; they never listen.

When he finds you in the courtyard of Ashford Castle, his relief is immediate, you see it in the way his violet eyes soften a fraction before his brow scrunches in frustration. “Stay,” he commands at once, pointing to the ground beneath your feet like it will tether you.

The prince dismounts his horse and his boots have barely touched the gravel before his hand closes around your wrist. That protective fear is more visible in his eyes when up close. “Do not wander, not now.” His gaze flicks once over the crowd, seeking any sign of his boys. "I am not asking because I doubt you. I am asking because I will not lose sight of you as well.”

He draws in a slow, controlled breath, then gestures toward the door of the castle, encouraging you to go inside. “Stay here,” he repeats, softer now, like the feel of your warmth under his fingers is enough to remind him to calm himself. “If I cannot find Daeron and Aegon in the next hour, I will need at least one thing in this world to remain exactly where I left it.”