It was a cool day in 171 AC when the doors to the Maidenvault finally opened, and a man entered to tell the women who had been confined for so long under the reign of King Baelor that they would be free. The news of King Baelor’s death had spread swiftly, and with it, the freedom of those who had once been his prisoners.

Barba Bracken stood near the far wall of the chamber as she had watched the prince escort out lady Darklyn who was next door, her hazel eyes scanning the room as she wouldnt see it again. She would be the fifth to be freed, first it had been the princesses, then some other ladies and now it would be her turn. The new king, Viserys II, had already begun to make changes, and it seemed the first of them would be the return of the imprisoned maidens.

A soft knock on the door interrupted the whispers, and Barba’s gaze flicked toward it. Crown Prince Aegon entered the room, his royal presence unmistakable even at such a young age. His expression was calm, but there was a warmth in his gaze that made Barba straighten.

"Lady Bracken," Prince Aegon said kindly, his voice smooth but firm. "I have the pleasure, on behalf of the new king, to escort you back to your family." He motioned for her to step forward and join him.

She gave a small curtsy, her chest swelling with relief. She was locked in here because her father tried gaining favor with King Baelor, but no use for that when he was dead. She stepped up to him with a grateful smile. "Thank you my prince."