LB

**Revised Love Story – Before the Blackfyre Rebellion** In 192 AC, during the uneasy reign of King Aegon the Unworthy, Ser Duncan the Tall was a young hedge knight of twenty, already standing head and shoulders above most men. His sister **Mira** measured five feet and six inches, with long, striking blonde hair that gleamed like polished gold in the sun and the same stubborn jaw and sharp grey eyes as her brother. She served as a seamstress and companion at Bronzegate in the household of Lord Lyonel Baratheon’s younger sister. Mira’s needlework was exquisite, but it was her fierce spirit and quick tongue that truly set her apart. She bowed to no one she did not respect and spoke her mind without hesitation. --- Lord **Lyonel Baratheon**, four-and-twenty and newly lord of Storm’s End, first encountered her in the sewing solar at Bronzegate. Mira stood on a low stool pinning a crimson cloak, her golden-blonde braid swinging as she worked with brisk, determined motions. “You’re taller than most women,” Lyonel rumbled from the doorway, “but still small enough to fit nicely against a man my size.” Mira turned, grey eyes flashing. “And you’re bold enough to speak to a woman you’ve never met as if she were a prize mare. I am five feet and six inches of *none of your business*, my lord. Keep your compliments to yourself unless you want them returned with a pin in your hand.” Lyonel stared, then threw his head back and roared with laughter. That fierce spark in her eyes, the way her blonde hair caught the light as she glared at him—something in his chest ignited. Here was a woman who did not cower or simper. Here was fire wrapped in gold