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Tom pressed his back against the wall and tried his best to steady his breathing. It was a task easier said than done. His heart was still pounding so loudly he could hear it in his ears. How he had gotten away from that set of guards earlier he wasn’t sure. Since then he had run around, slipping out of windows and climbing down onto another floor of King’s Landing. He was glad he had been blessed with nimble feet. It was because of that and quick thinking that he had been able to stay hidden for as long as he had. He only hoped that he had bought Mira enough time. Tom’s chest heaved with effort until he heard the heavy footsteps of the guards. Without another breath he pressed himself further against the wall and prayed they would just pass by. A chill ran down his spine as they approached closer. His bare feet felt like ice against the stone floor.

“Seven hells, that took much longer than it needed too,” the guard muttered, his voice gruff and irritated. 

“It did but now that handmaiden and coal boy have been apprehended. Our job is done. Oh, what say you that we slip away for a drink before resuming our duties?” 

The taller guard’s words made the other give a  half chuckle. “You don’t even need to suggest it. It’s a necessity after all the nonsense we’ve had to deal with today. How about we make it a few drinks and you and I head up to…”

Tom never heard the rest of the conversation. The ringing in his ears made that task impossible. Slowly his hand reached up and tugged on the tattered clothes by his heart. Mira had been captured? 

His heart started to grow heavy as it twisted with sorrow and worry. It felt as though he had been kicked in the gut and air was nowhere to be found.

“You. Hello? Coal boy!”

Tom’s eyes shot up and he was met with the annoyed gaze of a noblewoman. 

“I need more coal in my chambers.”

Tom tried to process what was demanded of him. He wanted to speak but the ability to do so seemed to be escaping him.

“Can you even understand me?” The noble woman sighed and pinched the bridge of her nose. “Where on earth do they find such useless help?”

“I can fetch coal.” The words were rough as Tom forced them out of his throat.

“Oh, so you can speak. Good. Off with you then and don’t take too long.” She waved a dismissive hand then turned to walk back to her nearby chambers. 

It took a moment for Tom to escape the trappings of his mind but soon one foot stepped in front of the other. He wandered down one of the halls and made sure to keep out of people’s way as he did so. Most people had a tendency to not even perceive the presence of a coal boy but one wrong step and one bump into someone could send him into trouble he couldn’t handle right now. Tom picked at his fingers and muttered to himself as he walked by.

“There has to be a way… there has to be a way… come on, Tom, think, damn it.”

If Mira was taken to the dungeons then it was nigh on impossible to break her out let alone reach her. Everywhere around there would be heavily guarded. Everywhere except-

Tom paused in his tracks. A small glimmer of hope flickering to light in his mind. He knew of some passages through the Red Keep that would be unguarded. If he timed it just right he could reach Mira. But what then? The door would still be locked. Could he pick it? It had been years since Bas had taught him the art of lockpicking. All of that knowledge felt as far away and distant. Too far out of reach. Tom knew it would be too risky to attempt that. Which left one option. He had to pocket a key from a dungeon guard. The thought made his insides feel as though someone had placed a heavy stone upon them. Still he had to be brave. Mira needed him and he couldn’t just abandon her. It would haunt him forever if he did. 

Cautiously Tom snuck around making sure no prying eyes were on him as he slipped into a hidden passageway that led to the dungeons. It was a tight fit even for someone as scrawny as him. Everything seemed so narrow and the walls felt as if they were pressing further and further into him. Despite that gnawing sensation plaguing his mind Tom moved forward until he had reached his destination. He kept to the shadows and watched the pattern of the guards. He wasn’t sure how much time had passed for him to reach the dungeons. The area looked as though it had been swallowed by pitch black darkness save for the few torches that offered small patches of light. It wouldn’t be easy to traverse here but Tom also knew that this darkness meant his chances of breaking Mira out increased immensely. 

“Come on! Get off your lazy ass and stand up tall!”

Tom looked over and noticed the captain of the guards angrily kicking a sleeping guard’s side. The impact made the guard groan loudly and produced a jangle sound that caught Tom’s attention. His eyes struggled to fully see clearly at that distance but he was sure that sound meant that he had found his target.

“Yes, sir!” The guard scrambled to his feet and puffed out his chest as he stood tall.

“Good. We must make sure to keep eyes on the scum imprisoned here.” The captain continued on without another word until his light from his torch disappeared into the darkness. The guard let out a tired sigh.

“Don’t know why. It’s not like they’re going anywhere except the block.” He grumbled and sat back down in the chair. With a stifled yawn he stretched his arms before his body relaxed completely. “I’ll be sure to give Henry a swift kick in the arse the next time I see him. ‘It’s easy pay. You don’t gotta do nothing.’ Hmph, arsehole, never told me the captain would patrol around here too.” With one final grumble and a yawn the guard closed his eyes and tilted his head to the side. It only took a few seconds before the sounds of his snoring were added to the crying and pleas of the prisoners who were terrified that their head would be the next to roll before sundown. 

Tom waited in the shadows for a few more minutes before taking a step forward. His movement was slow and precise. One wrong step would be deadly. Tom knew this and so he did his best to quiet his breathing and calm his racing heart. Fate seemed to have presented him with a chance. One that he would not let pass by. All he needed to do was slip the ring of keys loose from the guard’s hip without waking him. After that he could take his time to find Mira’s cell. As Tom neared the guard he extended his hand towards the metal ring. One mistake could cost him everything but he would risk it for Mira. He knew that she would do the same for him.

Chapter Text

Mira stared out of her cell door while her hands curled round the iron bars. Morgryn has just left with the guards, promising that in short time he would return for her: his bride. Mira felt tears start to prick her eyes and she reached up to brush them away only to cause the mark on her face to sting. Her fingers delicately touched the spot where Morgryn had hit her in retaliation for her attacking him and spitting at his face. Within seconds, however he’d had the upper hand and with a swift hit and his fingers curled around her throat Mira relearned a truth about herself. She was no skilled fighter. Her strength had always been with words and wit. Although she was starting to doubt that she had those abilities as well with how her fate had ended here in King’s Landing. She had been patient and tried her best to figure out when to hold her tongue and when not to and all she had to show for it was a growing bruise on her face and a forced engagement. All in an attempt to be free and hope that some of her family would survive. Although even that hope seemed impossible now.

Mira felt tears sting her eyes as claws sunk into her heart and tore deeper and deeper with each passing second. Her future looked as bright as this dim and musty cell. She was to be wed to Morgryn all so he had her name. Her freedom was sold along with her bodily autonomy all for her life. All for a chance that maybe she could be reunited with her family. An ever growing fear consumed her thoughts. What if her family would all be dead when she got out and made it back to Ironrath? What if she was the last Forrester?

That thought made her legs numb causing her to collapse to the ground. If that would be the truth then why the hell did she agree to Morgryn’s proposal?
Why did she agree to offer up Tom’s head on the block instead of hers? Bile started to burn her throat at the thought of what she had just done. She had given up everything and thrown away the life of her closest friend for what?

Mira didn’t want to ponder the question her heart posed but she knew the answer already. Keeling over, the bile spilled from her guts and onto the dungeon floor. She choked on the vomit, coughing roughly as more tears fell from her face. Her body shook with effort as she continued to spit up bile until she fell on her side. All of her energy had been drained and her spirit broken. If her home and family were gone then…
“I should die along with my family name.” The words escaped Mira’s lips before her vision went dark and she slipped into restless sleep.

“Lady Mira. Lady Mira.”

Mira’s eyes fluttered open at the sound of a familiar voice. When she lifted her head she felt a spike of surprise jolt her awake. There, standing with his hands on the cell door, was Tom.

“Tom? What are you doing here?” Mira asked as she struggled to get up to her feet.

“I’m getting you out of here. We can hide in Flea Bottom and then go from there.” He spoke in a soft whisper while working to find the right key for the door. It took a few attempts and more than a few swears but eventually Tom found the right key. With a faint click the lock opened and Tom pushed his way into the dungeon cell. He made his way over to Mira and knelt beside her. Without thinking twice his arms wrapped around her causing Mira to freeze and grow stiff from the sheer surprise of it. Tom felt the change in her body language and quickly pulled back.
“Sorry, I was just so glad to see I made it in time.”

Mira looked at Tom’s smile and saw how genuine his eyes were. It was as if knives were embedded into her heart, twisting with the guilt she felt. And yet he was here, he was still alive. That fact made Mira’s heart swell with relief and joy as she initiated a new hug. Tom held his arms up and his eyes widened. A second passed then another before his arms mirrored hers. Mira hid her face against Tom’s shoulders. The whirlwind of emotions in her heart overwhelmed her: the happiness to see Tom again, the fear of what the future held, the small glimmer of hope that Tom had brought back to her. But the strongest of all emotions, the one that burned deeply into her heart, was guilt for how much joy she felt being able to see Tom and hug him. Guilt that she had given up his life for hers and the impossibly slim chance that she would see her family again. Alive and not massacred on the Great Hall floor.

Chapter Text

“Come, Lady Mira, we need to leave before the guards return,” Tom helped his friend up on her feet but took pause for a moment. The few shreds of light that pierced through the window had landed upon Mira’s figure and highlighted things he hadn’t noticed before. The purplish blotch on her cheek and the faint markings around her neck. “Did the guards do this to you?”

“It does not matter. We must leave.” Mira brushed away her friend’s concern. 

It didn’t stop Tom from reaching out only for his hand to be gripped by Mira. 

“I said it does not matter, Tom.” Mira spoke with a little more force, causing a twinge of guilt to surface inside Tom.

“Sorry, you’re right, my lady.” Tom moved to the cell door and cautiously checked to make sure the coast was clear. After a beat he motioned for Mira to follow him. Mira wanted to say something but decided against it. They both needed to be as quiet as possible to avoid detection. As they snuck through the darkened halls of the dungeons and remained hidden whenever a guard walked by Mira was struck with memories of hide and seek in the Grove. Her siblings had adored that game but while Rodrik and Ethan were masters at the game she had never been. She had always gotten caught. Now she prayed that with Tom’s guidance her poor skills would not bring the same results but with far worse consequences. 

“Here,” Tom spoke softly and opened a door. “We can remain mostly undetected in the kitchens.” he explained then led the way. As soon as Mira entered the kitchens she was hit with the heat from the ovens. She could smell meat that was roasted on a spit and the smell of an earthy soup. The savory smells lingered and married with the sweet notes of fruits that were to be used in tarts. Orders were being barked out by the head of the kitchens while the rest moved around briskly to complete their tasks.

“Did you hear about the execution today?” One of the ladies spoke, gaining Mira and Tom’s attention. Still they moved on knowing they didn’t have time to stop and listen.

“Oh no, please Beatrice, don’t speak of such ghastly and gruesome events. Not when I’m working on this cut of lamb.”

“It was a bit sadder today than normal. Some coal boy got his head lobbed off.”

Tom’s feet became like lead and he froze. His gaze turned back to the women talking.

“So? Why is that sadder? You can’t go and have a bleeding heart for every poor creature that ends up there. He was probably there because of some wicked deed.”

“True, but oh you should’ve seen the fear in his eyes. He was around the age of my son and shared a name with my son’s closest friend.”

Mira reached out to touch Tom’s shoulder and gain his attention.

“Yes, yes, that’s truly sad. Beatrice, my heart weeps. Now can you pass me the fresh t-”

“Tom. That was his name.”

Tom’s blood ran cold when he heard that and his body felt numb. 

“Seven hells, Beatrice! Shut your trap and focus on your tasks!”

“Tom. Tom,” Mira gently shook her friend. “We must go.”

Tom’s eyes still looked lost but he nodded all the same. He proceeded to lead the way once more making sure to hide Mira well enough so the kitchen cooks didn’t wonder what a lady was doing here. Of course that led to many of them questioning him and scolding him saying a coal boy shouldn’t drag in his filth and dirt into the kitchen. What if it ended up in the food after all?

Tom apologized profusely at each scolding then continued further until he was able to lead Mira and himself out of the area. He moved to turn down another corridor when he felt a hand grip his hand.

“Wait, we must go back to my chambers.”

Tom’s eyes widened at Mira’s suggestion. “Have you gone mad? That may possibly be the worst place to be right now. The guards have probably seen that your cell is empty and are searching for you!”

“I know but tell me, Tom, what is the plan after we reach Flea Bottom? Do you intend to hide me there forever?”

Tom’s lips parted but Mira continued.

“I will be found eventually. If we don’t wish for your risk to be in vain then we need to gather items for which to sell. With that coin I could gather enough supplies and a horse to try and make it back to Ironrath.” Mira noticed Tom’s body language change and his eyes averted and stayed on the ground. “What is the matter? Tom?”

“I had wished to go with you. When I broke you free I burned all my bridges and ties to King’s Landing.”

Mira couldn’t find any words. The weight of those words were pressing into her body and made her mind a fog. 

“Our chances of survival increase if we stay together. I… I want to stay together.” Tom looked into Mira’s eyes and held his breath while he awaited her answer.

The guilt that Mira had pushed down was resurfacing. She knew she couldn’t let Tom be at risk of punishment or death again. No, she refused to ever make that choice again. 

“Then we must grab as much jewelry and fine clothes as we can from my chambers. The more coin we have the better our travels will go.”

Tom’s shoulders released the tension within them and he gave a small nod. “Right.”

Mira noticed the smile on his lips and returned it before making the treacherous journey back to her chambers. It was a gamble to return there but one they had to take to ensure their survival. 

Once they had neared the hall to her chambers Tom scouted to make sure no guards were near before giving the signal. Quick as mice they snuck into the room and shut the door behind them. 

“My dresser will have the finest clothes. I’ll gather any jewelry I can find.” Mira instructed then went to work finding anything of value she could take. Any jewelry she quickly pocketed then went to a chest by the door. She knew there was next to nothing of monetary value here yet it held mementos of the sentimental type that she needed to weather this journey home. With a grunt she opened up the chest and grabbed the wooden carving of an ironwood tree. The last gift she’d ever received from Ethan. Tears stung her eyes but she roughly wiped her eyes and continued. Her fingers snatched the coin from Asher and held it close to her heart. With a silent prayer she hoped to gain some of Asher’s bravery. She needed it now more than ever.

“Lady Mira,”

Mira looked up to see Tom holding up a cloak. 

“If you wear this it can hide your appearance and fine clothing while we traverse through Flea Bottom.”

“That’s a great idea, but,” She rested a hand under her chin in deep thought. “It’s too clean and the threads are too fine.”

“Oh,” Tom let his arms fall in defeat until his mind was struck with another idea. “Then we simply need to dirty it.” He made his way over to the coal bowl and started to stain the cloak and work to make it old and tattered looking. After a few minutes he held it up. “How is this?”

“It will work. Thank you,” Mira took the cloak and worked to secure it before placing the hood over her head. “And Tom?”

“Yes, Lady Mira?”

“You don’t have to call  me that anymore. I have no social standing to justify it. Besides, it would be wise to not speak my name while we make our escape, at least until we get out of Flea Bottom.”

Tom nodded. “Alright but what should I call you then?”

Mira paused. “I don’t know but I shall think of another name.”

That answer seemed enough for Tom currently. “Let’s go. We’ve spent too long here as it is.”

“Right,” Mira followed after Tom who led the way through more well-hidden passages once more. 

It was a tense journey to get away and towards the shallow safety Flea Bottom would give. Still they went on regardless and after what felt like an eternity they were finally there. Mira let out a shaky breath and inhaled deeply. She felt as though she could finally catch her breath but she soon regretted that. The pungent smell of piss, death and rot permeated her senses as soon as she entered Flea Bottom. Every inch of the place was covered in filth and all the eyes that Mira met seemed to linger on her far longer than she was comfortable with.

“Stay close to me, Lady- Stay close,” Tom instructed and held onto Mira’s hand as they made their way through an alley. After a ten minute walk Tom stopped. 

“Alright, I can work to get us some supplies and a horse. You need to find some new clothes.”
Mira nodded. “Meet back here within a few hours?”

“Yes.”

The two of them worked to split up the few pieces of jewelry and clothing they had taken then parted ways. 

Tom knew this place like the back of his hand. He knew which folks would give him decent prices for the pieces of jewelry he had hidden. All he needed to do was to get there with the jewels unseen. All the tension returned to his shoulders and neck but he tried his best to keep his mind off of that. He had to be aware of his surroundings and pour all his energy into that. Slipping into an alleyway and weaving past a few people and through a building he arrived at the spot.

“Ah, come to gain a few coin?” A man with unkempt hair and shrewd eyes studied Tom. His smile was unnerving, showing all his yellowed teeth and his intent. Tom steadied his breathing then stepped forward. He was going to get the best price he could. 

“Mmm these are some nice pieces, some fine jewelry. How did you say you came about these?”

“I snuck them out of one of the rooms of a handmaiden when I came to refill her coal bowl.”

“Hmm, interesting.” The man examined each trinket carefully. With a single glance Tom knew he would have to barter for a good price. Even the fairest traders here wanted to deceive him. 

“Damn it,” Tom muttered under his breath as he pocketed a small pouch of coins. He had fought relentlessly with the man and had gained a decent sum. Enough to buy supplies and a horse but after that the coins would be limited. With a sharp whack to the side of his head Tom forced himself to focus back on the task at hand. He needed to get supplies as quickly as possible but first he would get a horse to help carry them. Wandering around Flea Bottom he searched for anyone willing to part with a horse. The options seemed few and far between until he found a man that had a horse for sale. The horse in question was a beautiful chestnut red but the beauty was hidden under layers of dirt and muck. The horse’s mane was tattered and tangled and with each breath its bones were more clearly seen. It did not take an expert to see how beaten down and starved this horse was. Still despite all of that the horse held a kind soul to it as it let Tom touch its mane. Perhaps it had sensed something about Tom’s own presence or maybe it could sense his quiet love for animals such as itself. Either way it had taken well to Tom quite quickly.

“Looking to get yourself Potatoes?”

Tom looked over at the man with furrowed eyebrows. “What? No, I was interested in the horse.”

The man blinked at him for a few seconds then bursted out a guttural laugh. “I can see that. Potatoes is the horse’s name. That stupid bastard kept breaking out stealing my damn potatoes. She didn’t seem to realize that if I don’t eat then neither does she!” The man shot a pointed glare at the steed. 

“Is the horse for sale?”

“Aye. It’s a right old pain in my arse so I’ve been meaning to sell the bloody thing!” The man grumbled but his aura still held an intensity to it thanks to his bulging bloodshot eyes. 

“I can take it off your hands for a fair price.”

The man scoffed out a laugh at Tom. “I’m sure you could, boy. With what coin?” The man crossed his arms and leaned back against the stable stall. His cocky smirk quickly morphed into one of surprised glee when Tom held up a few coins. “Hehehe, well call me a bastard and eat a shit. Now we can start talking business!”

Tom knew this game of bartering well and after some heated back and forth and another coin or two tossed in, the horse was his.

“Alright, it’s okay. You’re with me now.” Tom smiled softly and worked to guide the horse out of its stall.

“Heh, good riddance!” The man chuckled then shooed Tom away before he could hope to change his mind. Tom frowned as he walked away from the man. He had made a vile taste appear in Tom’s mouth. One he hoped would dissipate as he focused on getting supplies for the journey. 

Mira gave a short thanks as she left the shop where she had gotten some new clothes along with the new outfit she was currently wearing: a simple blue skirt and a white blouse with a tight black vest over top. She had gotten a new shirt and pants for Tom and worn-out boots. She quickly hid away the remaining coin she had then placed the items she had gotten in a sack bag. Her hand quickly submerged into the sack again and she worked to grab a small sheathed knife that she had bought for protection and to help with daily tasks on the road. The last thing she took from her bag was what she hoped would help dye her hair. With a deep, calming breath she snuck away to a place where she wouldn’t be found or disturbed. Her hands trembled as she worked to undo her hairdo, letting her hair loose from the side braids and bun she had used to keep it up. Her hair cascaded down her shoulder blades. She had made a promise to herself when she had left Ironrath that she wouldn’t let every part of her die out when she went to the courts to be a handmaiden. There were parts of her she knew she had to keep hidden but one thing she had always held onto proudly was her hair. Every morning she worked tirelessly to get her hair up in a style common to her Northern region. She wanted to be able to hold onto that piece of Northern femininity and show her ties to Ironrath proudly. 

Now that had to be taken away. She had to hide yet another piece of herself. To survive she had to cut away a piece of her that she held boundless pride and joy in. Silently she unsheathed the knife and worked to cut through her hair. Mira’s body trembled, shaking with emotion as she cut piece after piece of her hair. Tears slid down her nose, landing in a puddle of dirty foul liquid in front of her. Through choked and silenced sobs she continued to cut away until her hair rested at neck level. After sheathing the knife Mira grabbed the supplies for which to dye her hair. Her movements were slow and void of anything except getting the task done. She wasn’t sure how this would turn out. In her heart she hoped to get blonde hair like that of her mother or perhaps a lighter shade of brown like her sister’s. Regardless of the outcome Mira continued to tirelessly work at it until the allotted amount of time had passed. With great hesitation she leaned forward to look in the puddle at her reflection. Tears started to well up in her eyes when she saw her hair still held roots of her dark brown hair but now streaks of blonde were scattered amongst her locks. 

Mira let out a pained breathy laugh as she continued to stare. Who she saw in that reflection was not herself. It was a stranger. Even with her best efforts it seemed as though the Mira she once was, the one who had come to King’s Landing and had fought like hell only to be cast into it, was dead.

Perhaps it was best if she accepted that. She had to die in order to survive. As tears rolled down her face and rippled in the puddle below she clung to the wooden carving Ethan had made her. How she wished she could’ve seen him one last time. To talk to Ethan and hug him. She wished he was by her side. She wished any of her siblings were. A painful lump soon appeared in Mira’s throat and she allowed herself a moment to fall apart before shakily getting up to her feet. It was time to meet up with Tom again. Tossing her cloak on she threw up the hood and slipped into the streets. Each step forward was made with caution until she arrived at the meeting spot and felt a sense of relief when she was met with Tom’s smile.

“You made it. Did everything go smoothly, my lady?” Tom asked, then quickly caught onto his mistake. “Sorry,”

“It’s fine. In fact, I finally thought of a name which you may call me by,” Mira gently gripped the sides of her hood and pulled it down. “From now on my name is Etana.”

Chapter Text

Mira kept her eyes off in the far distance. It would easily take weeks if not months to return back to Ironrath. They had spent all their money on supplies and a horse for a journey. To travel by sea would be too much of a risk if the guards of King’s Landing were in search of her. Perhaps further in their journey they could try to find passage on an affordable vessel but it might not be feasible. This whole journey may turn out with the worst outcome Mira feared: her home destroyed and her family slaughtered. There was a high possibility of that but she had to hold onto hope. A shaky breath tore through her throat as her eyes burned from unshed tears.

The sound made Tom glance over and pause for a moment in concern. He had rarely if ever seen Mira cry. He had a sinking feeling over what was embedding itself within his friend’s mind. He wished he had some way to help but he wasn’t sure how. A snort appeared behind him and he felt a rush of hot wind. He looked back at the horse who seemed to have taken a liking to him, especially his hair. Tom smiled for a moment before something formed in his mind.

“I haven’t told you what the horse’s name is, have I Lady-” Tom caught himself. It would take a while to adjust. “Have I, Etana?”

She was still the same Mira to him despite the change in her hair color and style and the more solemn look in her eyes. Still it would be wise if he got used to the name she had asked him to call her from now on for safety purposes.

“No, I don’t suppose you have.” Mira glanced over her friend’s way then steadied her gaze on the horse. “What is it?”

“Potatoes.” Tom watched as Mira blinked in surprise then registered the name. A small laugh left her lips.

“Potatoes. I like it.”

“Yes, I do too,” Tom gave the horse a few comforting pats. “Even though she doesn’t have the most stamina yet I’m glad she’s joining us.”

“As am I,” 

The smile had returned to Mira’s face which made Tom happy.

“Perhaps next time we stop for the evening we can try to clean her up a bit though. It seemed like she wasn’t getting the best care.”

“She does seem in need of a wash,” Tom nodded in agreement.

“Are the boots to your liking?”

Mira’s question made Tom focus on his feet.

“I know they aren’t the highest quality,”

“Oh, please, don’t worry yourself over that, my lady, these are more than enough. I don’t think I’ve ever owned a pair of boots. It certainly beats all the cuts and blisters I’d get walking barefoot.” Tom’s expression was soft and gentle. An expression Mira didn’t think she deserved from her friend considering what she had done. The guilt was still eating away inside of her. How could she have sold him out for her own life? Of course she had justified it and Mira knew that her reasonings held merit but still. It was cruel of her and it seemed with how Tom had been treating her he had no idea. She had thought he might’ve the way he was acting after they snuck through the kitchens and during their first few hours of travel. Now though, she was unsure and that made her feel queasy. Perhaps it would be better if she confessed it but a part of her feared she would lose the only friend and companion she had left. That fear proved to be stronger than her sense of morality in that moment. 

“It was far too kind of you to give these to me.”

Mira was thrown back into the conversation. “Don’t be foolish, Tom, I couldn’t just let you travel all this way with me and not get you boots.”

Tom smiled. “Maybe but I still think it is kind.”

Mira studied Tom for a minute then returned her sight towards the road. “I assume it will take a day or two of travel till we see the next town.”

“You’re probably right.”

“The light is growing dimmer too.”

Tom nodded.” Then let’s find a place to rest for the night.”

The two of them continued on and debated options as they tried to find a safe place to rest. Their safety mattered far more than the comfort of an evening rest. After well over a half hour and leaning closer to a complete one they had settled on a spot. It was hidden away amongst a patch of trees and a small stream ran nearby. The two of them worked to gather wood and refresh on water. While Tom worked on the fire Mira started to gather some water and clean the horse. It wouldn’t be the most thorough job but based on the muddy water slipping down her arm it was helping. 

“Oh, Potatoes, you’re a mess,”

Mira heard Tom’s laughter and looked over. “What?”

“Nothing. I just still find amusement in the horse’s name.” Tom focused on stoking the fire then went over to help. “I figure we can roast some potatoes tonight-”

The horse grew restless at that.

“The food, not you, sorry.” Tom reassured the horse. “And then we can give Potatoes a carrot.”

Mira nodded. “That sounds good. We should also try and figure out how to make the most out of supplies before we have to restock.” 

“I agree.” Tom helped his friend with the task and after a while Potatoes was cleaner than she most likely had ever been. The horse happily ate the carrot which made Tom smile as he rested by the fire.

“Food should be done soon.”

“Alright,” Tom stared over at Mira while she tended the fire. The glow of the flames basked her face in a warm light. But they also highlighted the marks on her face and neck. The sight made Tom’s stomach twist with a sickening sensation. Soon he stared down at the ground. If only he had been sooner then maybe Mira wouldn’t have been hurt. Then again he didn’t know how he could've been. He was lucky enough that he had managed to free her at all. One misstep would’ve meant his neck. Tom froze at that thought and his mind forced him back to the words he had heard those women speak of in the kitchen. Someone else had died in his place. A boy with his name. A chill ran down Tom’s spine. He had gotten someone killed. Even if it wasn’t by his hand or it wasn’t intentional it had happened. 

“Food is ready,”

Tom accepted the food with a soft thanks. He watched as the steam rose from the potato and disappeared into the dark night sky. He had lost his appetite. Still, he had to eat. He had to make the most of this chance at life he was given and make sure he and Mira made it to Ironrath.

Chapter Text

“Mira! Mira, please, help me! Please!”

Her blood ran cold as she stared ahead at the executioner's block. There, with hands bound behind his back was Ethan. Tears were streaming down her younger brother’s face as the executioner’s ax loomed overhead.

“Stop…” Mira’s voice was frail as she stood there in bone chilling horror of what was about to happen. “Stop! Stop the execution!” She rushed forward towards her brother when suddenly she felt an iron grip on her shoulders. 

“Now, let’s not cause a scene,” Morgryn spoke in a calm voice as his lips curled into a soft smile. The sight made Mira’s insides crawl like bugs had gotten inside her. With a firm tug he pulled her back towards him. His hands remained steady on her shoulders as the morning light shone on his ring. “This is what you wanted, wasn’t it, dear ?” He whispered in her ears as the ax reached its highest height. “This is what we agreed upon,”

“No, I never wanted this,” Tears slipped down Mira's face freely. Her lower lip quivered as she spoke. Her heart was trapped inside her throat. The world around her felt disorienting, time felt like it was cruelly moving slower as the ax descended. A feral, gut wrenching cry left her lips. Her body tore from Morgryn’s grip and she reached out a hand to her brother. Desperation overtook her features just as fear was hauntingly petrified on her brother’s face. The blade connected and with a hearty thunk it lodged into the block. A thud followed shortly after and Mira watched as the head rolled along the ground. It continued its sickening journey until it was stopped by the tip of her shoes. Mira froze in horror when she saw the dead hollow eyes of Tom staring up at her. The dullness of the eyes did nothing to lessen the fear that remained in them. A final testament of the last thing that the coal boy had felt. Mira’s body refused to move. Her mind spun as she continued to look at the head with glassy eyes. It was not until she felt a warm sensation traveling down her hands that her attention was torn away. Slowly her gaze turned to her hands and saw they were slick with blood. Still it didn’t stop her from having an iron grip on the ax she was holding. Mira’s eyes widened as her mind finally registered what she had done and a cry escaped her lips as she collapsed to her knees.

“Mira, Mira!”

Mira’s eyes shot open. She felt a hand on her shoulder and her body being shaken. With a sudden jolt she sat up, causing Tom to fall back to the ground.

“You’re awake. Seven hells, I was worried,” Tom’s shoulders relaxed and relief washed over his features. It soon faded, however, when he noticed the tears in his friend’s eyes. “Mira?” He slowly reached out. His fingers brushed against her shoulder and instantly she bristled. Tom’s hand retreated. “Sorry,”

“It’s fine,”

Mira’s voice came out hoarsely.

“Is it daylight?”

“Almost,” Tom glanced up at the sky. “Soon enough the sun should rise.”

“Let’s be on our way then,” She rose to her feet and started to gather their things.

“Are you sure? We could rest for another hour.” Tom offered but Mira shook her head.

“I would like to continue.” She went over to the horse and started to get her ready. Mira paused for a moment and glanced back her friend’s way. “Is that alright with you?”

Tom nodded. “Of course,” He scampered up to his feet and started to help out. “We have a lot of walking ahead of us.”

“Oh, I assumed that Potatoes was well enough that we might try to go by horse.”

Tom’s eyes widened slightly before he ducked his head and nodded. Mira studied him.

“What is it?”

“Nothing, my lady, I just have never ridden a horse.” Tom fidgeted with his fingers and couldn't seem to find the courage to look up at his friend. A moment of silence stayed between them until he heard soft footsteps and felt a hand on his shoulder. 

“You have nothing to fear. I’ll take the reins and you can just hold onto me. You trust me, don’t you?”

“Of course!” Tom replied quickly. His head fell again though, although this time it wasn’t out of shame but at embarrassment over his face warming. It felt awkward that he would have to hold onto his friend’s waist. Tom continued to be stuck within that thought, completely unaware of the inner turmoil that was etched on his friend’s face.

Mira stood there for a moment. Her gut twisted inside itself. How despicable was she to ask if Tom still trusted her when she was the one to betray such trust? She wasn’t sure how much more she could live like this. To have this guilt corroding her insides and tearing into her flesh. It was selfish to hide the truth from Tom. But perhaps it was selfish in another way to open his eyes to the truth of what she truly was: a snake and a backstabber.

“Anyways, shall we go, Lady Mira?” Tom wandered over to the horse and looked back at his friend.

“Yes,” Mira cleared her throat.” Let’s be on our way.” She worked to get herself onto the steed then offered a hand to help Tom. Despite how nimble and balanced Tom usually was it didn’t make him any less awkward as he struggled to get on the horse. “You’re alright. I’m here to help.”

“I know, my lady.” Tom grunted as he finally got firmly on the horse. He stared at his friend’s back and his hands hovered, unsure whether he could get over this feeling of awkwardness inside him.

“You know,”

Tom’s hands froze at the sound of Mira’s voice.

“You don’t need to keep calling me Lady Mira. I’m no longer a lady. I no longer have any social standing above yours. We are equals.”

“I know.” Tom slowly reached out his arms and wrapped them around Mira’s waist to secure himself on the steed. “Even so I still wish to call you that, unless it makes you uncomfortable.”

Mira grew quiet before a shaky breath escaped her lips. “It doesn’t. However, in public-”

“You’re Etana.”

“Right,” Mira nodded, then worked to guide the horse towards the path amongst the trees. Potatoes trotted slowly as she went through the forest before picking up speed once they were in more open land. 

The sensation of riding a horse felt weird to Tom but after some time he realized he didn’t seem to mind it. In fact, a part of it felt soothing in a way. 

“I didn’t think you would know how to ride a horse.”

“Oh?” There was a hint of playfulness in Mira’s voice “Why is that?”

“I… I don’t know,” Tom felt embarrassed now.

“I always loved horses. I would watch my older brothers ride in and out of Ironrath. I was envious of them. So, I had asked my father if I could be taught. He agreed although my mother was more opposed to it. She didn’t want to risk me getting hurt. That is what she said,” Mira gently guided the horse down a more smooth path and continued. “Despite that I stubbornly defied her wishes and learned. Rodrik was the one who ended up teaching me.”

“Your eldest brother?”
Mira nodded. “That’s correct, but Asher was actually the one most excited for me to learn. It turns out he wanted another sibling to join him in competition for who was the faster rider.” Mira chuckled softly. 

“Your family sounds nice.”

“They are.” Mira sniffled and Tom felt her body trembling. 

“You must miss them terribly.”

“I do.” Mira wiped away some tears from her face. “You’ll like them.”

“I hope so,” Tom spoke softly. “It’s not like I have much experience when it comes to families.”
Mira winced internally. “Sorry, is it a sore subject? I know-”

“It’s alright.” Tom reassured his friend. “I enjoy hearing about your family.”

Mira nodded yet she still felt bad for going on about her family to her friend that had none. The two of them rode silently for a while after that. Conversation would soon return to them. It wasn’t as though they didn’t have the time. It would still be a few weeks’ time to get to Ironrath. Although now that Potatoes was fit for riding the time would be lessened greatly. Mira was grateful for that. The week of journeying so far had been painstakingly slow. 

“The wildflowers look lovely,”

Tom’s voice drew Mira back into the present and she followed his gaze. 

“Those are beautiful. Are you a lover of flowers?”

Tom nodded. “Yes, back at King’s Landing I would often find myself going to the gardens whenever I had an excuse to travel through there.” A smile rested on his lips and he continued to share his fonder memories at King’s Landing. They were far between and few but it was pleasant to hear about. Mira found herself surprised how many involved her and she happily shared about her own memories with Tom. Within the conversation it felt like all the fear and guilt and worries disappeared from their minds. They could just simply be. 

It wasn’t until evening that they had decided to take a long break. As Tom worked  to get Potatoes settled Mira started on the fire. She was getting a lot better at it ever since Tom had given her some lessons. Within a few minutes the fire was set and the food was cooking. Luck seemed to be favoring them today since they had been able to catch a rabbit. The smell of roasting meat wafted through the air and made both of their stomachs growl as they washed their hands from the rabbit prep. Soon the food was done and the two friends dug into the food as they shared more stories to help pass the time. Once the sky had turned dark and the stars had taken their rightful place there Tom and Mira got ready to sleep. Tom worked to put out the fire while Mira got their resting places ready. Soon both of them were on their backs and staring at the shimmering night sky.

“Goodnight, Tom.”

“Goodnight, Mira.”

For once it was a quiet deep sleep. Mira’s body had grown relaxed and her breaths were even. It seemed like finally her mind would give her a moment of peace. That hope quickly shattered. The sounds of fighting and grunts caused her to wake up.

“Watch out!” Tom yelled.

Mira looked over to her friend who was currently fighting off a bandit with their single blade. It wasn’t until it was too late that she noticed that he was urging her to look for someplace else. A heavy hit to her face knocked Mira back onto the ground and she felt a pressure on her gut. A laugh made her glance up to see a bandit hovering above her.

“Heh, what should I do with you?”

Mira’s blood ran cold before her self preservation flared up. Her hands reached up and her nails clawed into his face. The man howled in pain causing his grip on his weapon to loosen but it wasn’t enough. He soon regained his composure and his anger had grown tenfold. Relentlessly he began to beat Mira until her grip on his face loosened and her fingers withdrew from his eyes. She watched as he raised his fist once more. She couldn’t take much more of a beating. A thought made its way into the forefront of her mind.

Perhaps this was how it would always end. Perhaps she never was meant to make it home.

She stared up with blank eyes until she heard a loud cry nearby. A knife suddenly ran across the man’s throat and blood poured onto her face. 

Tom pushed the man off Mira with a grunt then winced and held his side. “ Mira, are you okay?”

He received his answer before his friend could speak. It was clear she wasn’t. Blood traveled freely from her lips.

“Here,” Tom held out his hand. Mira stared at it for a second before tears burned her eyes. The guilt wormed itself back into her heart and sunk its claws in. Before Mira could even process what she was saying she spoke.

“You shouldn’t have saved me.”

Tom’s brows furrowed. “What? Why would you say that?” Tom reached out for Mira but she pushed away his hand.

“No. I don’t deserve your help! Not after what I’ve done.”

“Mira?” Tom looked lost and his eyes held concern for his friend. ‘What are you–”

“I sold you out.”