[For Will - Westeros AU] Northern Hounds and Southern Flowers

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"I don't see why hunting hounds should be of any interest to me," Margaery Tyrell took a bite out of the apple tart she'd procured from the kitchens. "That's Loras's game. Loras and Willas are the hunters, you know father never approved of my learning to hunt."

"It gets you out of the Red Keep and away from the lion's den," Olenna Tyrell pointed out. "Can't say no to that, can you?"

"True enough," Margaery had to admit, popping the last bit of tart into her mouth. "But all the same, I don't know the first thing about hounds."

"Then it's a bonus," Olenna laughed. "You'll get out of the Red Keep, and you'll learn something new. Now, go on, get down to the courtyard, I'm told the Kennel Master from the North is setting up his hounds as we speak."

"You're not coming?" Margaery's question was answered by how the older woman shooed her off. She all but swatted Margaery in the rear to get her to go.

Margaery rolled her eyes, but smiled all the same and made her way down from the gardens and through the halls of the castle. Finally she made her way to the courtyard, following the sound of dogs barking. Jaime Lannister was already there, looking at a few hounds, pointing out what he was looking for in a hound and what he expected for his nephews' hunt. Margaery, in the meantime, took to looking over some of the pups that had been brought along that were tumbling over each other and nipping and yipping aloud. Margaery smiled as she reached down and stroked her slender fingers over the soft fur of one of the female pups. "Hello there, aren't you sweet." She laughed softly.

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[tyrelltempest]

Margaery knew that the North was difficult to traverse. So when he spoke of the ease of a raven bringing him lessons, she didn't immediately consider him or his family poor. True enough she knew they were renowned for their craft and exports. Besides, it was hard for anyone to look wealthy when compared to the Tyrells.

When he complimented how she would look in the snow, Margaery couldn't help blushing. "You're too kind in your flattery, Lord Graham, I suspect I would look rather blue in the snow from near-freezing. But I thank you, for your kind thoughts and words." She let her eyes linger for a moment on him as she smiled to him.

Margaery bowed a little and bid him goodbye before leaving to meet her grandmother. She found herself anxious for tea and nearly ran back once she was out of sight. Once she returned to her chambers, Margaery sent a page to the stables to find out what Will was feeding the pups, and for some of that food to be brought to the garden so that she could feed her pup while they took tea. Margaery took the time to primp, fluffing her hair and dabbing herself as well with a slight sweet perfume. Then she went down to the gardens, calling Raksha after her. The pup followed at her heels.

The page soon came for Will and led him to the gardens. Margaery and Olenna were already there, sitting near the bayview. They were talking, though not of anything specific. Raksha was eating the food that had been brought for her. The tea and treats had not yet been brought. Margaery glanced up and smiled broadly when she saw Will. He was dressed so finely and he looked so charming, Margaery felt the heat and color rise in her cheeks. She rose slowly as the page brought him up to their small table.

"Lord Graham, so glad you made it!" She exclaimed. Margaery gestured to Olenna, who was glancing up and down, evaluating Will. "May I present my grandmother, Lady Olenna."

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Will had brought a small wool cloth with him for Raksha, it had been something her and the other litter-mates had used as a comforter once they had been separated from their mother. Will thought that perhaps it would help the pup settle in with her new master. He'd forgotten to hand it to the page before they left with the meat, so instead he was bringing it himself. An odd gift to bring to a tea party but is was for a special little guest.

Smiling awkwardly, looking around the gardens and surveying them as he first was introduced, then he couldn't help but notice the way in which Olenna was glancing and judging him. Oh how he hoped he looked fitting for their company!? Margaery looked as radiant as ever and Will gave her a sweet, small, bashful smile as she greeted him with excitement.

"Thank you my Lady." Bowing before walking over to where Olenna was sat. He was about to simply raise a hand and offer a meek 'hello' but despite his anxiety, Will decided against it and instead came to the older womans side, knelt down and bowed lowly. " It's a honer to meet you Lady Tyrell. The pleasure of your company will be a memory I cherish." With that, Will took her hand so delicately and kissed the back of it before slowly standing back up and bowing again to Margaery. He hesitated before taking her hand too, her skin was softer than her grandmothers and Will found himself caressing his thumb over the back of it before he pressed a gentle kiss in its place. "May I?" Helping her back into her seat before he took his own.

It was a big deal for Will, physical contact and willingly partaking in it, but it would have been terribly rude of him had he not. Taking the gift he'd brought for Raksha and setting it to the small wall beside the hedge next to his chair. "A comfort from home for the wee one." He added, just incase they thought it odd that he'd brought such a thing.

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Margaery smiled and was genuinely surprised when Will knelt to Olenna. Olenna seemed happy with Will's greeting and gave him a slight nod of approval.

"Glad you could join us, young Lord," Olenna watched him in turn when he knelt and greeted Margaery.

Margaery found herself blushing and a little spellbound when he knelt to her and she felt her hand in his. She felt that intimate way that his thumb caressed her hand, and had to bite the side of her tongue to keep herself from sighing dreamily. She was snapped back to reality when Will offered her the chair. Margaery smiled and nodded quietly, it was her turn to be mute as she sat down in her chair. Until finally she remembered her manners and smiled to him. "Thank you, I'm so glad you were able to join us!"

When Will offered the blanket for Raksha, Margaery smiled and reached to squeeze his hand. That he had made the first contact, she felt a bit better and closer to him, able to make this contact. "How thoughtful, thank you so much, I know she'll love it."

"On that matter," Olenna looked to Margaery pointedly. The younger Tyrell took out a small purse of gold coins, which she handed to Will.

"For my new pup," she insistently pushed the purse into Will's hand. "And you needn't refuse, I won't take no for an answer."

About then the servants arrived with tea and cakes and plates of cheese and cured meats per Olenna's instructions. The queen of thorns demanded only the best. "Help yourself," Margaery gestured for Will to partake of the treats as she took a honey cake for herself.

Again she found herself focused on Will. How his dark curls framed his face and his strong jaw gave such a handsome, rugged look. Then she realized she was staring and took a long sip from her peppermint tea.

"How was your travel from the North? Are the Lannisters treating you with proper hospitality?" Olenna asked.

"Not in my opinion," Margaery replied sharply.

[feelslikeimspilling]

It had taken a lot for Will to touch and feel, it was a kind of sensation he wasn't used to. Will was more comfortable with his hounds than humans, and Margaery and Olenna were far from wild and unruly animals. So, when the two women accepted his greetings and smiled politely, Will felt that he had done enough to pass as a normal, functioning man.

Will noticed the way in which Margaery seemed to be focusing on him and him alone. At first he thought nothing of it, then he assumed he must have had something on his face perhaps? a hair out-of-place? A mark from wrestling with his hounds? Yet when he realised her cheeks were full in bloom with pretty pink plumes, Will couldn't help but smile. Looking off to the said, like a child that knew a secret and couldn't tell.

It was a nice feeling, to make someone smile and feel flushed. The only other woman he had made smile in that way, left a long time ago, afraid that there was something dark within Will, something that she couldn't stop pondering over and resulted in her leaving before they ever had the chance to explore. It was okay though, Will was used to being alone, it was better that way, and while his trip down South was a nice distraction, Will knew it couldn't last forever.

Margaery took him by surprise when she reached out and grasped his hand. Instinct told him to pull back and withdraw, but his chest was pounding fast and hard, like the sound of drums played on the battle field before a bloodshed. Instead, Will held his ground, swallowed a lump that rose in his throat and simply let out a small fleeting gasp, eyes fluttered ever so slightly and his fingers stretched out, as if wanting to touch more where they stayed under her clasp.

"For Raksha." He said with a thankful nod as the coin purse was forced into his hand, he had rather preferred holding dear Margaery's hand and so couldn't help the slight dip in his brow when she broke the contact. Will had no intention of offending her and refusing the gold, he would however, use the coin to buy meats and oats, leather and fabric so that he could make the pup enough food and training tools for when he left. She did say it was for the pup after all, so Will would be humble and spend it on the animal instead of pocketing it for himself.

Turning to smile at Olenna when the food was brought to the table, Will would wait until both woman had taken a yummy treat for themselves before he reached over and took a rather juicy piece of meat, followed by a large, ripe, golden apple. Pulling his hunting knife from out of his pocket, Will did not consider how the action would look, as he began to peel and cut slices of the fruit with his blade. Had he had time to practice, Will would have made sure his table manners were fit for royalty.

Watching Margaery sip her tea, again he smirked a little, shifting in his seat. His body language was louder than his actual spoken words, leaning in his chair a little more to her side than his own, one leg stretched under the table, almost at her small feet. It was as if some kind of gravity was pulling him in and Will didn't even notice it. Before Olenna spoke of the Lannister's, Will found himself memorizing the freckles in Margaery's eyes as she looked at her Grandmother. His eyes drifting to her plump, moist lips, the way her cheeks moved softly when she chewed her tart and when she swallowed, Will too swallowed, fixated on her every move, eyes drifting down her throat and to the small dip in her neck between the collar-bone when she took a breath.

Snapping out of if, Will sat up a bit sharply, as if he'd just been caught sticking a finger into a freshly backed pie as it cooled. In such a motion, he almost kicked the underside of the table. How embarrassing. "Oh um, it was warm. I er... Heh I should have travelled with more appropriate attire. I came by sled rather than house or cart." His head bounding as he nodded, pausing to take a look at both woman before he continued. " H-have you ever ridden a hound pulled sled? It's easier in the snow than on gravel and grass, I can tell you that much. " Smiling, taking another bite of his apple, listening as Margaery answered the question intended for him and what an answer she gave. "Oh? I hadn't noticed to be perfectly honest. I mean, well, I assumed they would be busy and I'd see them rarely..." He stopped there before adding a 'but' and possibly insulting the royal family.

"These apples are delicious!" He spoke for a moment, without his manners as he still had some un-chewed food in his mouth. Wincing his face up in mortification as to what he'd just done. Tipping his head low and closing his eyes in disgust with himself. It took him a moment and a few sips of his tea before he gained the nerve to speak once again. "It really is a privilege to be sat at your table. I've heard so much about your family though we sparcly see many of the great houses visit the North. You're almost like a myth. I shall be envied for this encounter. You've finally made me interesting. " He laughed a little awkwardly. Conversation was never his strong point.

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For a man whose strong suit wasn't conversation, Will was doing exceedingly well, given that he himself had admitted that Southern clans were rarely seen in the North. Margaery was happy when he took the coin purse. What he did with it was his business. And even if she wasn't looking directly at him, even if she was focused on the honey cake she'd chosen for herself, Margaery felt him looking at her, knew he was focusing on the minor details that composed her. It only made her blush a darker pink. She was flattered, that he would focus so upon her.

She was glad that he did not pull his hand away from hers, though she had noted the gasp and the reaction she had gotten. Margaery filed that in the back of her mind for later use.

"A sled?" Olenna seemed baffled by the mere notion. Margaery couldn't help chuckling at her grandmother's reaction.

"Indeed, grandmother - when was the last time you traveled in anything other than the carriage?" Margaery playfully teased her grandmother.

"I tell you child, this old woman can barely handle sitting still in the coach from here to Highgarden. Let alone traveling by sled all the way from the North!" Olenna exclaimed before taking a sip of her tea.

"But I imagine the going would indeed be slow when the snow melted," Margaery looked to Will. "Was it difficult on the dogs? I imagine they're used to the snow and cold earth, not necessarily the mud and dry plains of the South."

She figured his hounds were his element, and that he would be a little more comfortable discussing a topic he knew with absolute certainty. Margaery had not yet noticed how Will subconsciously was leaning closer to her, or how she was turned a bit more in her seat to face him more than she faced her grandmother. When he pulled out his knife both women's eyes widened, but they made no audible noise nor dramatic expression. Olenna cast a glance to Margaery, and they exchanged a look. Margaery reached for a fire-plum, a fruit of Highgarden with seemingly inherently warm flesh and a reddish-purple skin. As Will began to skillfully slice his apple, Margaery held up her fire-plum and tilted her head slightly. "Could I impose upon you, Lord Graham?" meaning to ask him to slice the plum for her.

"The attire can be remedied well enough," Olenna sipped her tea. "I know some of the greatest tailors in King's Landing, I doubt any would refuse a commission."

"Grandmother, not everyone up and buys new clothes for the fun of it," Margaery pointed out. Sometimes she swore her father and grandmother went through clothes like bandages for wounds. Not that Margaery could criticize on that matter much, she enjoyed her fine jewels and clothes and how she looked in them with her flowing brunette waves.

"...well, if it's the matter of payment, I might be persuaded to foot the bill," Olenna replied matter-of-factly. "He gifted you with a new little friend and protector, after all. I don't see what harm a set of more comfortable Southern clothes would do. But whether you accept or not, Lord Graham, is entirely up to you."

Both women again exchanged a look when Will gave the outburst with his mouth full. But both women were poised and classy enough to avoid giving away any feelings on the motion. Margaery went on as though nothing had happened, sipping her tea and taking a few pieces of salted pork for herself, eagerly popping the salty treats into her mouth, following the sweetness of the honey cake.

"Ha! Talking to a Tyrell is hardly boasting anything. Well, with the exception of present company," Olenna blustered. "My son is a doddering oaf who speaks whatever silly word pops into his head. His sons are a bit better, but-"

Here Olenna glanced to Margaery, who glance up with wide doe eyes. "My Margaery I daresay is the fairest blossom in the Tyrell garden, and with the sharpest thorns."

"Grandmother, you mustn't boast like that!" Margaery blushed and brought a hand up to her mouth, hiding her face just slightly. "How self-centered Lord Graham must think we are!"

"Well, if we're self-centered what would he think then of the Lannister lions?" Olenna tilted a brow. "Indeed they are the most busy lot. Buzzing about their sneaky business and doing all manner of horrid things."

"Grandmother..." Margaery gave a warning glance to her grandmother.

[feelslikeimspilling]

Will couldn't help but laugh silently at the two as they chatted merrily away. His shoulders shook and his head rocked a little from the motion, a deep, mirthful smile in place over his lips, eyes closed lightly in amusement. He was sure that enjoying their back and forth way of talking was meant to be entertaining, otherwise why talk so lightly at all?

So it was not all that common to use hounds for transport down here than? Huh, that was a curious notion, perhaps that was why indeed all the roads had stones and ditches in them, after all, the foot of a speeding horse caused more damage to the land than the pads and paws of a pack of hounds. "I would like to think that, if I could, I should take you for a ride some time, Lady Tyrell?" Offering his service to Olenna after her comment about finding it hard to remain comfortable in carriages these days. Will lent over the table, his knee brushed Margaery's as he did so, being a brute of a man from the North, Will didn't think anything of it, they would sit at smaller tables than this, it was common to brush ones leg against another. He wasn't however, expecting the shiver it gave him.

Composing himself, a quick smile and with lack of eye contact, Will picked up the glass set aside for Olenna, for after her hot drinks. "You see, the hounds are more in tune with nature. They move as one larger body, with each dog playing a part in keeping it going. They're smooth and alert, not easy to spook like a horse." He jogged his hand up and down, the motion mocking that of riding a horse, with glass in hand the water almost spilled and splashed out, yet Will stopped and began to move his hand in beats of 4. The glass in turn steadied. "I assure you. Much more comfortable and twice as exciting to ride on." Placing her drink back down, after his point was made.

Will settled back in his seat, facing Margaery now, shaking his head side to side slowly. "No, my dogs adapt rapidly. I've trained them in every way a man possibly can. Like you would a child. Nurture them, let them take their own steps but be ready to catch should they fall. Encourage them and praise them when they active. Many man assume a hound is a hound, simple. Nothing but a means to gain meat and power. I think of my dogs as my family, an extension of me and how I want to world to see me." This was the one topic Will could actually talk openly about. He didn't need to keep the ladies eyes with his, he knew they were listening. "I adore them. And I would fight tooth and nail for them, as I know they would for me. As she will for you." Pointing to the pup as it lay all snug by the side of the table. A warm smile as he observed the small ball of fur.

Returning to his food, having felt that he'd spoken enough, the God's forbid he should seek all the focus of the gathering!

Will was curious when Margaery held out the strange fruit in her hand. Tilting his head, noticing the kind of skin it had and it shape before he acted. "Certainly." Will answered, cupping the hand that Margaery used to hold the plum, his other took the knife and drew it across the coloured flesh. " I don't know how to handle something as rare looking as that." A little gravel in his voice, softer and slower as if Margaery and himself were the only ones at the table. "I wouldn't want to bruise it..." He let the knife's blade come close to Margaery's fingers but withdrew and started over again from the other side. The peel swirling down and landing neatly on the plate. Will chanced a glance up and when Margaery caught his eye, Will pressed the edge into the plum a little deeper than he'd wished. A trickle of the juice trapped inside cascaded down Margaery's wrist, then his own. There was no apology, just a coy look with something slightly darker, mysterious behind his eyes.

"I wouldn't know where to start, my Lady!" He exclaimed to Olenna's comment about him perhaps obtaining a more fancy attire. Taking his hand from Margaery's and licking the juice from his wrist, then popping his knife in his mouth to sample a little of the fruits flesh left behind on it. " Mmmm~!" Nodding with a smile in pleasure at the new and exciting taste.

Trying as he might, Will couldn't help but agree with Olenna when she spoke of her granddaughter's beauty. She was indeed a rare sight. Will felt if he were to comment now, he'd say something fluttering, so instead agreed by dipping his head, sighing out a short and happy breath then looking positively starstruck. Hopefully that in itself was a compliment!

Will listened and took note of their comments about the Lannister's yet he didn't think it was his place to comment. "We hear rumours on the wind if you will, up North where I live. But you never can quite imagine them real until you're in the lion's den yourself." His most polite way of agreeing.

[tyrelltempest]

Margaery and her grandmother were thicker than thieves. Olenna may very well have been Margaery's mother. It was rumored among the courtiers of the Red Keep that the two women could communicate with their minds; without words. The latter at least was true.

Olenna and Margaery both listened carefully, their eyes glued to the glass as he used it as a visual aid. Each woman had their own reasons for being interested. Olenna enjoyed learning new things about anything. Margaery enjoyed seeing Will in his element, discussing his craft and looking so enthusiastic. Slowly a smile crept across Margaery's full lips. When Will offered to take Olenna for a ride, the older woman let out a sharp cackle, while Margaery just gave a soft little chuckle. Mostly at the mental image of her grandmother riding a dog sled.

"Must I stand, or would I have a cushion of some sort to sit upon?" Olenna chuckled. "I think I'll stick with my carriage, thank you - shade from the hot sun, too much heat makes isn't good for old women, you know."

"I think it sounds like fun," Margaery smiled. "There's something exotic about the whole idea." Then his knee hit hers and it was Margaery's turn to gasp ever-so-slightly. The contact had made her jump just a little; startled slightly - but mostly it was the heat that shot straight up her spine that made her gasp, that's what she hadn't been expecting. But she enjoyed it. She surprised herself in that she craved more.

When Will moved to oblige her request with the fire-plum, Margaery had expected him to take the fruit from her. But instead he closed his hand over hers and began to skillfully use that hunting knife. Margaery's eyes flickered from the knife to Will, and to the knife again. She didn't think for one second that he would inadvertently hurt her with that knife. No, he was too skilled for that. Margaery was spellbound as he moved the knife and peeled the fruit. "You won't...you won't bruise it." Her voice was soft, almost a whisper. "They're stronger than you might think."

Was she still talking about the fruit? That gravel in his voice, that low tone and the darkness in his eyes as he sat back - oh, Margaery nearly felt herself swooning. But she maintained her senses, and her teeth pinched her lower lip, smiling coyly in turn as the juice dripped down her wrist. Rather than lick it off as Will did, Margaery ran her finger along her wrist to catch the juice, then set said finger into her mouth to lick it clean.

When Will ate the remnants of the fire-plum from his knife, Margaery smiled at his reaction. "Isn't it lovely? The skin has a slightly cinnamon-esque bite to it. Fire-plums are everywhere in Highgarden, but most produce is. It's difficult deciding between them and the apples, you're right."

Ah, youth. Olenna had watched the pair of them during the whole exchange, smirking knowingly to herself. Even if the two of them didn't know or realize it, Olenna could spot the blossoming of affection between them in how their eyes met. She could practically see the sparks when they touched. But the Queen of Thorns said nothing, she just sipped her tea and shook her head a bit.

It was only when Will spoke of the Lannisters that Olenna spoke up again. "Indeed. Mind you watch yourself though. They're the ones who brought you here...and I somehow doubt it was simply to purchase a hound. No matter how good they are."

Margaery's eyes grew dark with worry. "You suspect foul play, grandmother?" She had seen the Lannister scheming, she didn't want to see Will get involved. It would likely only end in pain for him.

And she wanted to avoid that at any cost.

[feelslikeimspilling]

When the two women had a bit of a laugh over the image if Olenna riding a hound sled, Will too chuckled for a moment silently. " Actually, My lady... You'd find that my hounds are strong enough to pull a carriage of their own, should you not fancy yourself on a sled that is." He was talking truth. Though the carriages he spoke of were rarely used and even harder to come by unless homemade. Will would, if it was asked of him, make Olenna her very own, not that he'd offer just yet, he'd like it to be something she'd want and even then he'd like to make it a surprise. Will just liked to help people, make them happy, even if he found it hard to look at or even talk to them sometimes.

Turning his attention back to Margaery, Will looked down at her hands as he spoke. " You'd brave the sled for a feel of adventure? So there is a fire inside you after all and not just in the radiance of your hair and eyes?" A compliment, though most of Will's compliments could easily be taken for other things. He was good with words when he didn't wish it and when he wanted most to impress his tongue seemed tied and useless. Hopefully, he wasn't saying things too odd that Margaery could understand his compliments.

There was something about how she spoke and looked at him, Will got the feeling that while peeling the strange fruit, Margaery was, in fact, talking about herself. Something he couldn't quite shake from his head. What had she meant by that? why would she imply such a thing? What was the hidden meaning? Oh, how Will pondered and mused over the notions of her intentions all to no avail. He'd simply have to find out a little later, perhaps find a way to be forwarded without being too intrusive.

It was then, that all thought was left null and void in his mind, as Margaery traced her delicate wrist with a nimble finger, collecting the sweet and fiery juice before popping it into her mouth. Will watched with such fascination as she popped that finger into her mouth to clean it. He'd never seen a lady eat in such a way. It was a sight he'd store in his memory for later, when he was alone and aroused in his bed chambers. Having to look away, so not to embarrass himself, Will leaned over and took a honey tart for himself. He wasn't used to such sweet things and when the sweet, strong honey caught the back of his throat, Will coughed a little, taking some water sheepishly soon after it.

His attention was soon brought to what Olenna was saying about his hosts, the Lannisters along with Margaery's input. "You think they wish to trick me? I had been warned that they may try and hire of buying my hounds for less than their worth but I should have thought that was the end of it... What would you suggest I should be concerned over my Lady?" Curiously and with the concern he asked the older woman for her input.

Will had been cautious about coming to tea at all, had it not have been for an impulse he would have stayed at the Castle with Jamie and the other men he'd been told would be available for company. "Now that I come to think of it, I was invited to have drinks with the Queen Regent... Though she had shown no interest in my hounds or the hunt itself. I did find that rather suspect and if I'm honest a bit intimidating." He looked back to Margaery, offered a small humble smile then reached over and touched her fingers where they sat upon the table top. " Thank you for this invite, you saved me the trouble of having to make an excuse." Lightening the mood and hopefully showing that he was more interested in tea with the Tyrell's than an inquisition with a serpent of a woman.

[tyrelltempest]

Olenna considered the fact Will presented to her with a tilt of her brow. Now, that was something indeed. Hounds that could pull a carriage. The very idea! She shook her head a bit as if to truly register the image in her mind. "It's an interesting idea I suppose. Curious....how very curious," Olenna continued to shake her head and chuckle.

Margaery grinned as Will's attention was again focused on her, even if his gaze wasn't. She blushed at his compliments. Many had complimented her beauty but somehow, when the words came from Will's mouth, it made her heart flutter and her cheeks flush a dark pink. Her dark eyes flashed up to him, looking at his own eyes even if his gaze didn't meet hers. "I would. If given the opportunity."

She saw how he looked at her when she licked the juice of the fire-plum from her finger. Margaery couldn't help smiling and taking a slow bite of the fruit. She could see the slight fluster in his expression. Secretly she hoped that he would indeed think of her, even when she wasn't around. When he coughed on the honey tart, Margaery looked concerned. She saw how sheepish he was, and she took a honey cake for herself.

"They are indeed rather sweet, aren't they?" She smiled as she took a bite. "A bit dry too." Margaery took a sip of her own tea to wash down the cake before she again nibbled the fire-plum.

Olenna looked up to Will and glanced between the two of them. "When it comes to the lions, always suspect foul play." She warned. "Underpaying for your hounds is the least of your worries, Lord Graham."

"You don't think they'll try to hurt him, do you grandmother?" Margaery looked worried.

"No, at least not in any obvious way," Olenna replied. "No, they're likely setting him up for something. Exactly what that might be is the question..."

Margaery looked distressed at that. Why couldn't the Lannisters just...disappear? Why dd they have to lurk about and cause misery for everyone else? She didn't want Will to get hurt by any of them, and the possibilities rushed through her head what they might have in store for him. Extortion? Framing?

When Will mentioned he had been invited for drinks with Cersei, both women tensed. Margaery's eyes flashed and her chest swelled in slight anger - jealousy truly. Olenna was simply surprised and taken aback. "...if the Queen Regent wanted you alone, that's even more alarming."

His attempt at levity was appreciated, but as his fingers brushed over her own, Margaery smiled softly. She moved her fingers against his, enjoying the feeling of his touch. Wanting more. "Then I am even more glad that you came."

[feelslikeimspilling]

Will pondered on telling Olenna about how his father was a skilled craftsman too, and how they would spend months upon months making their own boats with Ironwood to sail the seas in search of dogs and hounds with foreign blood and qualities, to cross with their own upon return. However, he decided against it, didn't want to seem like he was bragging, it wasn't something a Graham would do.

He was growing more and more impressed with the fair Lady Margaery by the minute! She was willing to take on the elements of the North, attempt a sled ride with his hounds, what else would she be up for he wondered? "Perhaps, if it isn't at all too offputting... You'd like to accompany me on the hunt? we'll be at the front with the hounds so there wouldn't be any need to actually talk to Jamie and his nephews... Your company would be welcomed and you'd be in safe hands." Smiling as he turned his palms up and open to her, showing her how kind and gentle they were for one who worked with them for a living.

Will was growing concerned though and he couldn't hide it. The thought of being set up or having Cersei after him for something hadn't honestly crossed his mind until now. The North knew of how the Starks had been treated and word had spread of lady Sansa's expreience at the castle. The North remembered, this was true, but Will was only one man and a man with no intnetions of fighting the Lions single handeded.

"Should I return home? Or would that agrivate the situation?" He turned to Olenna for her advice.

[tyrelltempest]

Margaery bit her lower lip when he invited her to the hunt. Her dark eyes flickered to her grandmother before she again focused on Will. She saw his palms, appreciating the near-submissive gesture and the meaning behind it. Margaery smiled and her eyes sparkled. "I would enjoy a hunt with you, Lord Graham.-" Thankfully, her grandmother interjected and relieved Margaery of the awkward task of politely refusing his invitation.

"But as it's the King's hunt, only he could invite people to attend," Olenna pointed out. "And as of yet, Joffrey has not seen fit to bless Margaery with an invitation. So she will not be attending."

Margaery's mouth turned in a crooked line - an expression of regret. Clearly she want to go; or to at least share in the experience. Her father had never deemed it appropriate for women to attend hunts. Margaery had been brought up to be the perfect ladylike flower; something eye-catching for a highborn lord to admire and marry. Ideally, a king.

Olenna sipped her tea and popped a bite of cheese in her mouth. Unsure what to say next, Margaery sipped her own tea and had another bite of fire-plum.

"...however," Olenna added after a long pause. "If someone else were to hold a smaller hunt, one that would not draw so much attention, perhaps Margaery could accept an invitation to such a hunt as that."

Margaery tilted her head at Olenna, who refused to meet her gaze and simply smiled as she sipped her tea. Ah, loopholes. There were never a deficit of them.

But at the question of Will returning home, Margaery tensed again, and both women shook their heads.

"If you return home now, young lord, you'll only arouse suspicion," Olenna pointed out.

"Indeed. And nothing will stop them from sending emissaries after you in the North in the future," Margaery added.

[feelslikeimspilling]

Of course, Will had no right to invite anyone along to the royal hunt, let alone Lady Tyrell. What was he thinking?! He was not used to the protocol of such events, the act of being social and actually having to talk through with certain people before making plans seemed like such a lot of fuss and bother. It was easier back home, up in the cold North. Even the nobles would change their minds and let others attended even their grandest of gatherings. Just another stark reminder of how different the North and South were.

Will smile, a letdown kind of twist to his smile, but he understood and couldn't help but feel a little foolish for having suggested it in the first place. However, when Olenna added that second part, the part about perhaps holding another, smaller hunt? Will's excitement was obvious in the spark that lit up his eyes. "Actually, now that you mention it, my Lady, I do have to take the hounds out for a warm up hunt. Make sure they're fit and fast before they attended on the Kings side." Smiling as he turned to Margaery. "It would only be me and a few others. A Squire and perhaps a stable hand, no one who would be attending the actual hunt itself."


Still, with hope in his heart that he could spend some time alone with Margaery, Will tried to sell the idea without coming across as too pushy. The other matter at hand, however, was proving more difficult to come up with a solution to. The fact remained that Will was, shall we say a little more special than your average Lord, he'd discovered at a young age that he was able to relate to people, feel their feelings and intentions... Though some would call this a gift and think to feel blessed, Will found it horrifying. He'd been mistaken for a warg when just a boy and being beaten and bruised because of it had put him off using the rare ability again. If needs be, he could always try and withdraw the Lannister's intentions for him against their will.

"Then I'll stay put and continue my visit as planned. I'm sure whatever it is they have up their sleeves can't be proven lies if evidence is collected and given to the right person." Though Will stated it as fact, it was really more of a question. He took another slice of the salted pork and smiles as he chewed. He prefered it over the fancy pastries the woman were happily devouring.

[tyrelltempest]

There was an almost adorable quality in Will's expressions and how he wore them on his sleeve. It was obvious his disappointment at the first part of Olenna's statement. Margaery attempted to brush her fingers against his wrist nonchalantly in an attempt to soothe him. But then came her grandmother's second statement, and Margaery's eyes lit. Will seemed so happy! The spark in his eyes made her smile broadly. She enjoyed seeing him so happy.

She was happy too - at the prospect of a hunt in general but also at the prospect of a hunt virtually alone with Will. Margaery smiled and nodded enthusiastically. "I'd like that. Forgive me if I seem naive, but I've never been on a hunt before." There was excitement in her voice.

Raksha gave a sharp yip beneath the table. Margaery looked down to her and picked up the pup, lifting her into her lap and stroking over her soft fur. "Would I be able to bring Raksha? Or would she be underfoot?" She wanted her pup to know how to hunt, but she was still young. Margaery yielded to Will's expertise on this matter.

"If not, I'd be willing to watch her for a time," Olenna sipped her tea.

"Thank you grandmother," Margaery smiled.

Margaery was unaware of Will's ability. But she inherently felt a protective sense over him already. She didn't want him near Cersei. She didn't want him interacting with the Lannisters. Margaery made it her goal to do whatever she could to keep him away from them. But she would need to avoid arousing suspicion with her own actions.

At his last statement, Margaery smiled and Olenna gave him a wink. Silently answering the statement-question.

[feelslikeimspilling]

As sad as the statement is, Will wasn't happy often. No, fear, regret, and sorrow normally filled his days and nights. He preferred not to get involved with many people, it was just better that way. If he had no one to let down or be let down by, then it reduced the emotional turmoil he would have to endure or inflict. It was nice, it truly was, being around the two women, they made him feel carefree and dare to let his emotions move freely through him. It was dangerous and exciting and Will wanted to fee like this more often.

"I'll take good care of you. You've never been on a real hunt until you've been on one with a member of the Graham clan!" His excitement still raw and true as he smiled wide and nodded to confirm. "No harm will come to you and I assure you I will let you get as involved as you wish."

As Margaery asked her question about the pup, Will found himself wanting to give in to her. He wanted to let her have her way and bring the pup to the hunt, despite it not being for the best, he didn't want to break it to her that it wouldn't be for the best. So, with a heavy heart, Will gently shook his head. "I'm sorry but it just wouldn't work. She would be too small to make it as a hunting dog anyway, she's the run, albeit a cute runt, a runt all the same. She's still of an exquisit breed and would produce some fine hunting hounds, but I think being your company and protector is her calling in life." The statment was something Will was jealous of, he only just realized that as the words left his mouth. The idea was a silly notion. That someone like him could be with someone like her! Obscene!

Ah, hooray for good old Olenna. Her offer to mind the pup put Will's mind at ease. "There then, all sorted I'd say."

He could sense something about her, it was as if she was trying to protect him? Yet Will couldn't' quite put his finger on what it was that the Queen Regent wished from him. It was troubling and he didn't want it to spoil their evening. So, in a bold sort of request, Will sucking in a breath and puffed out his chest. "My Lady." He addressed Margaery. "After tea, would you be so kind as to escort me around the gardens? I've never seen some of the flowers I spotted in bloom before. I'm very curious as to how they smell."

[tyrelltempest]

Margaery smiled, finding herself overjoyed and anxious to hunt. Did they have to wait? Did she have to be patient? She would if she had to.

"I'm confident you will take care of me, Lord Graham," she said, her tone a bit darker, more velvety than usual. Enjoying the idea, seeing him in her mind's eye with a sword at his hip, or a crossbow on his arm - ready to defend her from any beast or prey that dared appear. "I have no fear, with you beside me."

She didn't want to wait. She didn't want him to only be by her side on a hunt.

When Will asked her to guide him on a walk through the gardens, Margaery's anxiousness and unwillingness to wait for tomorrow for the hunt was abated. If she had to wait for the hunt, she would do so. It was easier to wait, knowing they would have a little bit of time alone in the gardens.

"I'd be honored," she replied, smiling broadly.

"You couldn't have picked a better guide," Olenna added. "Margaery spends most of her time in these gardens, I daresay she knows them better than the King's Landing natives. Of course they're nothing compared to the gardens of Highgarden."

"Grandmother," Margaery scolded her playfully.

Margaery was indeed disappointed that Raksha couldn't come. But she knew Will was the expert. She knew it was for the best. She smiled down to the little pup and even plucked up a small piece of fruit for her to eat. "That's all right. I'm fine with you being my protector. When you're bigger Raksha, if I ever go on a hunt again, you'll be able to go. I'll need someone to protect me."

She glanced up to Will shortly after she spoke. Her gaze sought his for a moment, focusing on his eyes, the light behind them - and the darkness. After a long moment she glanced up to Olenna and smiled.

"Thank you grandmother, I'll see that her food is brought to you - I hope she won't be any trouble," Margaery smiled.

"Please, child - I've been watching you and your brothers since before you all could walk. If I could handle your mischief, I can handle a small pup!" Olenna scoffed. Margaery laughed and waved her hand at Will, dismissing her grandmother's comment.

"Ignore her, Lord Graham!" Margaery continued to laugh.

"Seven hells with that!" Olenna snapped. "You were the most mischievous of them all!"

[feelslikeimspilling]

Will couldn't help but laugh. It was nice to see the two women reminisce the joys of a mischievous childhood, Will thought back to how much of a handful he was at times and it was easy to imagine Margaery in the same kind of situations.

As tea started to come to an end and the three were sipping various teas and water, letting their food rest, Will smiled. He'd enjoyed his time here with them, in all honesty he didn't want it to end. "Would it be permissible to take you for archery practice, just before first light? I suggest we at least let you have a go at the actual hunting, you never know when you might be able to partake again... And I want you to enjoy the experience as much as you have made me enjoy this experience."

Will stood soon after, addressing Olenna. "My Lady." Taking her hand lightly once more and kissing the back of it. "If you will allow it, may we take our leave now? "He turned to look at the gardens behind them. "It's only, the air is at it's warmest and I wish to smell the flowers while they're fully opened and enjoying the sun." It was an honest request, he really did want to wander the gardens, but he was also keen to get to know Margaery a bit better, on their own. The thought made him anxious, a bubbling in his stomach, what was that?

Turning to Margaery now, readying his arm for her to take. Is that what you do? He wasn't used to escorting Ladies around, the last noble woman he'd escorted anywhere, was the young Lady Mormont and Lyanna was a lot smaller that Margaery, he had the feeling it wasn't going to be the same as taking an 11 year old girl hunting grouse in the woods.

"My Lady." He offered, with a little nervous bow of his head, hoping that Margaery was ready to be his guide for the rest of the evening.

[tyrelltempest]

Margaery blushed, but she was indeed enamored by his laugh. His smile alone was infectious enough, but the laugh he had, it was sweet and dark - from deep in his throat and she couldn't help but enjoy the sound.

They continued with tea, drinking hers and finishing it off with another soft honey cake. But she was anxious for tea to be over, so that she could enjoy some time with Will by herself. When he offered to take her out for archery practice, Margaery smiled, but laughed softly and adopted a sheepish expression. "I'd enjoy that very much, but I fear you would find me a very poor student. Father never approved of such skills for me, it was unladylike, he said."

"He'd know all about being ladylike," Olenna grumbled, finishing off her tea.

When Will rose and asked to excuse himself and Margaery, Olenna tipped her head and smiled, a mischievous glint in her eye. "Aye, off with you both, then. Enjoy the flowers while you have the opportunity," the smirk on her face indicated a double meaning to her words, but Margaery hadn't the time to deduce it. She too was a bit nervous, her stomach fluttering as she stood up. She set Raksha on the ground, and the pup followed dutifully after her.

Margaery smiled and eagerly took Will's arm, looping hers with his and even leaning into him a little. It was more natural for her than she could have figured. He had a stronger figure than he let on, very solid and sturdy, Margaery felt safe and secure being so close to him.

Off they went then, away from the courtyard and into the intricate maze of gardens that Margaery could navigate easily. "I hope you don't intend to leave too soon, Lord Graham. It's nice being candid with someone for a change."

[feelslikeimspilling]

Will was too embarrassed by the way Olenna spoke, he could sense a double meaning to her words and it made him coy beyond belief. Deciding a polite smile and cheeky grin of his own was the best answer before he escorted Margaery off into the winding rows of bush and flower.

He wasn't all that worried that Raksha had decided to be a thirdwheel, confident that the pups nose was good enough that it could sniff it's way back out, should she become lost.

As they turned round the first few corners, Will took in all the beautiful colours and scents. He smiled as Margaery as she reviled how she didn't want him to leave, but it was her comment about being candid that drew a curious knot to his brow. "It's hard to be honest with people here? I'm sorry to hear that... I'm always available to lend an ear or shoulder for you."

The more they became surrounded with breath taking colours and petals, the more Margaery just seemed to put them all to shame with her own beauty. Will slowed them, pausing for a moment to cup a rose and draw it to his nose to smell. It was then that he pricked his finger on a small, almost hidden thorn. Pulling back quickly, popping his hurt digit into his mouth to stop the bleeding. "Why is it always the pretty things come at a painful cost?" More of a musing to himself then meaning to be spoken out loud.

[tyrelltempest]

Raksha was in little danger of being lost. She followed close behind Margaery's heels, even walking beside her for a little while.

Margaery smiled at his offer and gave his arm a little squeeze. "There are all kinds of traitorous sorts here. Lannister spies, lesser lords looking for ways to advance their station. It's difficult to find someone to trust that you're able to confide in." She leaned into him a little more, her shoulder pressed softly against his, letting her bare upper arm feel he softness of his own clothes. "Your offer is much appreciated. Thank you."

When Will paused to partake of the roses, Margaery smiled, of course having her own special connection with the flower. There were all sorts of colored roses that surrounded them; white, red, pink, sunburst orange. The latter of that list was always Margaery's favorite. When Will pricked himself on the thorns, Margaery couldn't help laughing softly.

She reached out carefully, two fingers slipping beneath the bulb of the flower to tilt it so that she might smell it as well. "With fair and pretty things, the key is to know how to handle them. One can't just grab something so lovely and delicate as a rose and not expect to be cut. They must be handled gently and with care."

Margaery released the flower and smiled up to Will. "The Queen Regent tried to have thornless roses developed, but such attempts were fruitless. As we told her they would be."

[feelslikeimspilling]

The physical contact was slight but it grew and it grew. Their forearms already touched, now their upper arms and Margaery's shoulder too. Will turned his head a little in her direction, inhaling and catching the sweet scent of her bare skin. She smelt just as good, if not as wonderful as the rose he'd just been scorned by.

Her words on the topic of trust had him slightly concerned. Still, if needs be, Will had his way of finding one's true intentions, he just hoped that he'd not have to use it on the Lannister's themselves. It could prove tricky.

That soft laughter of hers drifted like music on the wind. Filling his ears with delight and joy. If only he could make her create such a sound more permanently, it would be a song that Will would never tire of. He watched as she took the rose without harm and enjoyed it's smell, yet it was her words and the way she spoke them that had him captivated. Hanging on her every breath.

"Gently.... And with care..." Will repeated, his eyes trailing over her hands, up and along her arm. There was clear temptation there, to take her in his hands and feel her skin as smooth as stems, watching her petal soft lips turn into a smile. He had to shake the desire from the front of his mind and concentrate on what she said last. "It would be a shame had they succeeded... I think the sting of a rose reminds up that we can't just take what we want..." He neared her face with his. Whispering through gravel and darkness in his voice. "... No matter how sweet the temptation of nectar might be."

[tyrelltempest]

His scent by comparison was musky and like oak. He had a very...northern smell to him. Margaery enjoyed it to the overperfumed men of the south. Renly was particularly guilty of this; though whether it was from his own doing or from vigorous contact with Loras was unknown. It was only just then in thinking of Renly that she noticed the similarities between him and Will - along with the glaring differences.

Both were tall, strong men. Dark of hair, stubbled chins with strong jaws. But Margaery had known all along that it wasn't her Renly had wanted.

As Will leaned in a bit just then, with his voice so dark and primal, it seemed pretty clear that he didn't share Renly's proclivity for Loras. Margaery bit her lower lip, her eyes flashing to his own as they formed the words he spoke. "The sting of the rose reminds you that it is not completely helpless," she added. "A rose may yet bring pain if not handled to her liking."

Was she still talking about the flower? Even Margaery herself wasn't sure. She didn't move away, she couldn't move away. She had to be right there, she had to be there. If she moved away, then he might do the same. And somehow, deep down, she didn't want that. She wanted him right where he was. No - that wasn't quite true either.

"Have you...no flowers in the north, Master Graham?" She whispered, her eyes flickering down and back up again, focusing briefly on that granite jaw and the curve of his lips. How would it be to feel his stubble against her cheek?

[feelslikeimspilling]

Was she talking about herself now? Will wondered curiously so. All the slight touching and brushing of hands, was that a hint too? Will was more than observant, he couldn't help but to start to figure people out. He couldn't turn his empathy off, he picked up on her every move, the movements that her body made to give her away. He noticed when she looked at his face when she bit her lip and lowered her eyes. It made her look beyond attractive, almost wanton but still refrained.

He smiled, raising a hand and gently he brushed a curtain of her soft curls back, away from her face and delicately over her shoulder. The backs of his fingers stroked her jawline and the bottom of her ear as he moved them. Thumb resting near her temple, fingers splaying out to explore said ringlets. Will paused like that for a moment, his eyes studying her face, his own lips parted and plump. Wetting them with his tongue momentarily in a slight lick before closing them and swallowing.

"No." He answered, breathy and low. Letting his fingertips caress the side of her neck as they returned. Curling them under her chin to tilt it up slowly, his thumb softly and bravely dared to brush over her bottom lip, pulling it down just a fraction only to let it bounce back in place once the contact broke. "None like you. Our flowers are faint and void of vibrancy." Will neared a little more until she could feel his breath against her face. "I'm about to be pricked by a thorn... Or take the sweetest thing in this garden for my own."

[tyrelltempest]

Was she dreaming? Was this happening? Margaery felt her whole body tensing. A tingling sensation started at the tips of her fingers and small of her back. It spread through her body, up her spine and down her limbs. Margaery worried, was age so obvious? Had she dropped her usual veil that kept her emotions hidden? If so, why?

The feeling of his fingers moving over her cheek and the sensitive skin of her neck made Margaery tremble just a little. His touch, though his fingers were slightly calloused from work and the bitter wind that blew in the north, he was surprisingly tender. The gentle brush of his touch conveyed a certain reverence and desire. He seemed a different man from when they had met this morning.

Ah! They had only just met this morning, hadn't they? How could he be so brazen? How could he already be so forward? How could she already want to melt and moan to feel that touch again? The way his thumb pursed and pulled her lip, Margaery just wanted to wrap her lips around his finger, why indeed was that her first instinct? But she resisted all the same.

"You flatter me," she could only whisper. She shouldn't be here, they shouldn't be doing this. She was due to marry Joffrey. She was supposed to be queen. But right now, no one could be further from her mind than Joffrey Baratheon. "This rose wouldn't hurt you...but I doubt you would be satisfied with just a taste alone."

Margaery felt her heart in her chest. Heavy-lidded eyes glanced from Will's lips, to his eyes, and back again. Yes, Joffrey was long forgotten.

[feelslikeimspilling]

Will wanted so badly to capture her lips, to draw her near and hold her there among the pretty flowers. He wanted to stay like this for the entire time that he had left, there was no thought of preparation for his hunt tomorrow, no thought on why he'd been called to the Queen Regents council. No, right now, there was only one thing Will was thinking about, one thing he desired, and it was her.

His eyes flit from hers to her mouth, then to her eyes again. Taking in how beautiful she looked in this moment, remembering it in the back of his mind so that he could close his eyes later and see it all over again.

She was right, though. There was no way Will would be satisfied with just a taste. When Will set his heart on something he wanted, he'd find a way to make it his, no matter the cost. With his hand still cupping her chin lightly, his other delicately took her small hand in his, raising it to his lips and kissing the back of it, yet still, his face was so close to hers. "If I were to capture your lips... Would you think me a fool?" Husky and low, an octave deeper than earlier, talking with pure primal desire now, yet at least he was decent enough and respected her enough to ask.

Will wasn't stupid, he knew her name and who she was sworn to wed. That didn't stop his heart from yearning for her thought. It might have only been a day that they had known one another, but Will was convinced they were supposed to meet for a reason. The anticipation was almost too much for him to bear and Will almost moved of his own accord, stopping himself just as he'd closed his eye and leant in for a kiss.

Before the kiss could connect, Will spoke, breathless and true. "Stop me... Before I can no longer stop myself."

[tyrelltempest]

Margaery's breath was caught in her chest, for a moment she forgot to breathe, with how close he was. When he lifted her hand to kiss the back of it, her eyes watched, studied his movements as he did so. He asked his question, but she didn't hear him. It didn't register at first.

But then she realized she had paused a little too long. Margaery swallowed hard to quench the dryness in her throat, to allow herself to speak. "No. I wouldn't think you a fool..."

She was anxious now. Did he mean to kiss her? Was he going to close that gap between their lips and partake of her taste? Margaery couldn't bear the waiting. But she wasn't about to move first. She wanted to see how he meant to proceed.

Then he leaned in closer and her heart skipped a beat. Her chest swelled just a bit, a sharp intake of air as she began to close her eyes, as soft pink lips began to part. But then he stopped. He didn't close the distance. She was disappointed for a fleeting moment, then his words came. So close...

"What if I don't want you to stop?" She whispered, her tone a bit more desperate and needy than she intended. "You won't take anything I will not give you." She would make sure of that. If he moved to take too much, if he became too bold indeed, she would find the willpower to make her displeasure known.

But for now, there was nothing more she wanted than to feel the warmth of his lips over hers. To taste the heat of his mouth and to feel his stubble scratch against her face. To feel the strength of his arms around her and the pressure of his chest against her own.