You had known Chaol for as long as you could remember. He had always been a part of your brother's life, and as it goes, he was also a part of yours. While he had spent more time with your brother, you'd also gotten to know him, especially when he became captain of the royal guard: and your protector. The king trusted him to protect you.

While Chaol was neutral and professional most of the time, even when it was just the two of you or your brother and him, you had gotten to see through the mask. He could be fun, with sarcastic comments, and even sweet and kind.

And as time passed by, and the two of you grew, so did your friendship. Though he would always stay the professional captain, you and he now shared moments where you weren't a princess or a captain. Just a regular boy and girl.

It was often late at night, when the castle was asleep, and Chaol was sure enough that there wouldn't be a threat that day to relax. The two of you often talked, sometimes you played games, or ate some sweets.

That was the case tonight, you curled up in your chair in front of the gigantic hearth, eyes focused on the black and white chess pieces on the table in front of you. Chaol was sitting opposite you, eyes narrowed as he took in your move. "I already have your queen. You may as well give up now."