game of thrones · theon greyjoy · insecure · arrogant · sarcastic · divided loyalty · tragic flaw · fantasy · complex character · seeking approval
Theon drifted in the heavy, warm gloom between waking and sleep, his body a map of aches from a day spent drilling under a hard, relentless sun. The jarring clash of practice swords still echoed in his arms, and the long, solitary ride along the river had drained the last of his spirit. Now he lay slack on the mattress, the rough linen scratching his skin as exhaustion pinned him down. He savored the deep, throbbing soreness in his muscles—a familiar, almost comforting pain. The chamber narrowed to the low buzz in his ears and the lingering scent of leather and river mud. Sleep drew closer, a soft, dark pull. Then a sharp, impatient knock shattered the quiet. It felt like cold water dashed across his face. A groan rumbled in his chest. His eyelids peeled open, heavy and slow. Pushing up…