Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Lucera didn't know what to do. One moment she was sleeping, then the next her cousins, Baela and Rhaena pulled her and Jacaerys out of bed telling them someone stole Vhaegar, their late mother's dragon. By the time all four children made it onto the beach, Lucera was in complete and utter disbelief at who just rode the mighty dragon. Aemond Targaryen, her uncle.

So many things happened all at once, a fight broke out between them and the youngest son of the King. Lucera tried to stop them, but Aemond shoved her away, calling her a bastard. Her brother came to her defense with a dagger, but Aemond hit him in the head with a rock, making the boy lose his grip on the blade. Lucera looked between the dagger, a disoriented Jacaerys, and an enraged Aemond approaching her defenseless brother with that same rock.

When the silver-haired boy pinned Jacaerys down and raised the rock in his hand, Lucera rushed forward. "No!"

Aemond brought the rock down with the force that will bludgeon his nephew's face in, but Lucera covered her brother's face and took a harsh blow to the head instead.

Baela and Rhaena screamed when blood flew from the young princess' head before she fell limp on top of her brother.

Their screams alerted the Kingsguard, pulling the boy off of the siblings.

"Lucy..." Jacaerys cradled his younger sister whose head was bleeding heavily as she stared wide eyed up at her brother. "...Lucy, can you hear me? Lu?" Jacaerys began to panic when he got no response, the only indication of her being alive was her shallow breathing.

Her brother's voice was the last thing she heard before darkness consumed her conscious.

Aemond felt like he's been put on trial, standing before the many adults in the room, under their judgement and scrutiny. Rhaenrya, her son Jacaerys, Laenor, Daemon, and his daughters Baela and Rhaena gave him fiery glares. Not that he didn't deserve it, he nearly killed his niece, his best friend. His mother and siblings stood beside him, Alicent looked positively guilty and frightful by what she has heard from her son and the children.

"Trapped in darkness; out of reach." Helaena muttered to herself as she stared at the ground with a distant look.

"Aemond," His father, Viserys Targaryen, stood over him with only a cane keeping him upright. He watched his youngest son with fury and disappointment. "Is what they said true? Did you try to kill Princess Lucera? Well?" He raised his voice, making the boy flinch.

"It was an accident." Aemond trembled under his father's gaze. "I didn't mean to."

"You had Jacaerys pinned down. You wanted to hit him." Baela said, glaring hatefully at the boy who stole a piece of her and her sister's mother. "But Lucera got in your path."

Aemond bowed his head, "Yes. I was angry." He admitted as he felt the anger from his half-sister burn into his soul.

"And what about Lucera? Will she live?" Alicent asked, her eyes filled with fear and guilt for her son and for her stepdaughter's child.

Rhaenyra glared at her former best friend, "None of us wants to hear false concerns from you."

The Maester of Driftmark bowed his head, "I stitched up the cut, but it was particularly swollen from the impact. She'll survive." He informed them after assessing and tending to the Princess.

Rhaenyra let out a shuddering breath of relief. She already lost one great love in her life, she cannot bear to lose any of her children, especially to the likes of Alicent. "May I see her?"

"She's still asleep, but it's fine as long as she's not disturbed." The Maester said before Rhaenyra left the hall to tend to her daughter. Passing by Aemond, she glared hard at her youngest brother, making him shrink beneath her gaze.

Laenor and Jacaerys followed after her, giving the young boy the same death stare. Baela and Rhaena trailed behind them to visit their cousin, each of them hissing at Aemond, "Dragon Thief." Daemon stayed in the same room and watched the boy with the stare of a hunter waiting to kill its prey.

"Daemon, please tend to your daughters. They need you right now." Viserys ordered his younger brother sensing the bloodlust within him.

Damon didn't respond as he made to leave the hall but paused in front of his brother's second wife. "Sleep with one eye open from now on. Especially you." Daemon whispered to his nephew with a threatening smile before he left the room.

Viserys watched one part of his family leave before he turned to his youngest. "Aemond, what you did cannot be undone. That dragon was the last remnant of Laena Velaryon, two daughters mourn her. For you to take a piece of that away is no different than murdering her." He said as he stared at his son with utter disappointment. With a slow and tired breath, his next words cut Aemond to the core, "You are forbidden from ever going near Vhaegar or any other dragon."

"But I claimed Vhaegar, it was my right as a Targaryen." Aemond protested, after being denied a dragon of his own for so long, he finally gets the mightiest of all dragons.

"Defy my orders, and I'll disinherit you before the entire Realm. You'll no longer be a Prince, or even a Lord." Viserys said, daring the boy to speak again.

Alicent tried to speak on her son's behalf, "Your Grace, you cannot-"

"Silence!" Viserys ordered his wife, "You are as much to blame for this! His actions reflect on you. This animosity between you and my heir has infected the younger generation." He angrily said as he glared at Alicent.

With that final word, the King left the hall with his Kingsguard.

Rhaenyra sat in the chair at her daughter's bedside the entire night. Her husband tried to pry her away to get her back to bed and have proper sleep, but Rhaenyra refused. She mesmerized her only daughter's features, the Valyrian facial structures as though carved from marble, and her midnight black hair that spilled out onto the pillow beneath her bandage-covered head. How the mother wished her child can open her eyes, to see those bright amethyst-colored gems stare up at her with the same pride, admiration and acceptance in spite of her flaws.

As though the Gods finally heard her, a moan came from the bed, making the Heir to the Iron Throne come closer.

"Mother..." The voice cracked as the young princess opened her eyes.

"I'm here sweetling, you're alright." Rhaenyra said with a tearful smile as she brushed her daughter's hair out of her face.

Lucera blinked as her eyes darted around the room. "Can you light a candle please?"

Her sudden request surprised Rhaenyra, "Lucy...it's morning. The sun's already out."

Lucera blinked rapidly before she began to hyperventilate.

"Lucy? Lucy?" Rhaenyra began to panic as she held her daughter's hand.

Lucy opened her mouth and released the shrillest scream that could be heard from King's Landing.

Laenor burst in through the door upon hearing his daughter's scream. "What happened?" His attention drawn to his wife and the child thrashing around in bed.

Rhaenyra tried to hold her daughter even as her flailing limbs hit her. "I don't know, she just started screaming!" She said, staring at Laenor pleadingly.

Laenor turned to the knight stationed outside the door, "Get the Maester." The Veleryon Heir approached the bed, his ears ringing from the piercing shrieks from their youngest.

"Lucera...calm down. It's gonna be alright." Laenor tried to comfort her amid the cries that spilled from her mouth.

But what the child said next froze their blood ice cold.

"I can't see! I can't see!" Lucera wailed as she cried in her mother's arms, "Help me, please! Mother please! I don't wanna be in the dark! Please Mother! Please!" She begged the only woman who she considers the most powerful being in the entire world, believing her love and strength can save her from darkness.

Rhaenyra's voice closed up as her heart completely shattered at her only daughter's cries. Her tears joined her baby girl's as she rocked her back and forth, the motion always soothed her children whenever they were tormented by the whispers of the court.

Rhaenyra glanced at her husband whose eyes screwed shut, but tears still escaped him in anguish for his daughter. Though she never came from him, they were still of Targaryen blood.

Aemond stood outside the chamber, just right next to the door. He woke up that morning to check on Lucera, to beg for forgiveness and apologize for his attack. But the screams halted his progress. The screams echoed off the stone walls, as though the Keep itself was crying. Standing outside Lucera's chamber, listening to her anguish tore him apart. She can't see. She's blind. It's all his fault.

His face filled with horror and guilt before he returned to his own chambers. He can never bring himself to enter Lucera's room, Rhaenyra will kill him. Upon entering the room, he began to hyperventilate and pace the room, pulling at the strands of his hair until his scalp hurt, his eyes burning.

"What have I done? What have I done? What have I done?..." Aemond repeated this mantra to himself as he realized the impact of his actions and what they've cost Lucera.

He grabbed the bedpost, resting his forehead against it before pulling his head back and slamming it against the polished wood. Though it hurt, he didn't stop repeating the action even as his ears throbbed and the blood stained the bedpost.

Alicent pulled the door open and rushed to her son. "Aemond stop that!" She said as she pulled her son away from the bedpost and was shocked at the sight of blood covering his face.

The tears never seized streaming down his cheeks as he breathed heavily. "It's all my fault."

"Aemond-"

"She's blind!" Aemond cried, "She can't see anymore!" He shook his head and gasped sharply, "It's my fault! It's all my fault!"

Alicent's eyes filled with tears as she brought her son closer to her, unmindful of the blood staining her white nightgown. She too heard the cries of Lucera. She realized with horror how this action could very well sign her son's death. In spite of Rhaenyra's sins, the one quality that stands out about her is her deep love for her children.

The next day, Alicent sent Aemond with Ser Criston Cole to Old Town. After the events at Driftmark and friction between the Greens and Blacks increasing, it was safer for her youngest son to stay away from King's Landing. Though it pained her to separate from her precious son, she can't bear the idea of letting Rhaenyra kill him.

While the King and the Greens returned to the Capital, Rhaenyra's family remained at Driftmark for an extra fortnight, still grieving over their losses and for Lucera to recover. During that time, tragedy struck House Velaryon once more as Laenor was killed by his love and burned beyond recognition. At least that's what the realm thinks.

Following the death of Laenor Velaryon was the wedding of Rhaenyra and Daemon Targaryen in the tradition of Old Valyria. Bearing witness to the ceremony were their children, and the officiator.

Lucera, after recovering from her plight, listened to the ceremonial exchange. The smell of her mother's blood and Daemon mixing together hit her nose. Romantic, symbolic and revolting. Her sightless eyes gazed out at the sea, silently wishing her first father-figure a safe journey and thanking him for everything he tried. He did his best to protect their family, for that she will always be grateful.

Lucera closed her eyes and gently laid a hand on her eyelids.

'Now it's my turn to protect this family.'

Chapter Text

"Aemond."

The young looked up to see Lucera stare down at him as he sat curled up in Aegon's Garden. Her bright amethyst eyes were filled with sadness and concern.

"I heard about what happened. With the pig." Lucera frowned, her hands fisting her teal dress.

Aemond angrily looked away, "If you're here to laugh at me-"

"It wasn't even funny." Lucera cut him off sharply before she plopped down beside him. "I never liked pig roast to begin with."

Aemond pursed his lips, staring into space as he remembered the humiliation he felt earlier. "So, why are you here?"

"I'm currently hiding from my brother...and your brother." Lucera answered with the corner of her mouth quirking up.

Aemond turned to her with a raised eyebrow.

Lucera smirked, "I sheep-shifted their beds. Now their rooms stink of dung."

Aemond was silent for a moment before he released a string of laughter as Lucera grinned in victory.

Aemond chortled, "You did that?"

Lucera shrugged, "Anyone who creates the Pink Dread is full of cow dung. This was quite fitting. I can't count on either of them to apologize."

Aemond stopped laughing, but never seized smiling. "Thank you."

Lucera nudged him with her shoulder playfully. "Anytime." Her gaze held compassion and understanding. "Don't listen to either of them, especially your brother, just because he has a dragon doesn't mean he's better. And I've seen him fight with a sword. You're way better than him."

Aemond's smile waned a little, "If I can't hatch a dragon egg..."

"It's doesn't make you less of a Targaryen." Lucera assured him, "Even if you don't become a dragon rider, you can still be a warrior. You have more freedom than you realize."

"Yeah, how?" Aemond ask as he leant back and gazed toward the sky.

"You're a boy. This society doesn't let girls wield swords." Lucera bitterly stated as she rested her chin on her knees.

"Aegon the Conqueror's sister-wife, Visenya, wielded Darksister and was revered as a warrior queen. She and her sister Rhaenys are the main reason why the Seven Kingdoms came to be in the first place." Aemond stated to Lucera who scoffed softly.

"No man wants to marry a woman who can fight. That's not how things work in this world." Lucera stated with a frown, the reality of what society expects of her always left a bitter taste in her mouth.

"I'd marry you."

Lucera turned to Aemond who smiled mirthfully, "I don't mind having a warrior for a wife."

Lucera smiled softly, "Bad joke there. Our mothers wouldn't like that. Yours especially."

Aemond shrugged, "Men don't know what they're missing."

Lucera giggled, her purity and innocence resonating in her amethyst eyes.

The jolt from the moving wheelhouse pulled Aemond out of sleep. His head throbbed from where it bumped against the window as he groggily woke up from his nap. He groaned as he rubbed at his face. That dream he had was a memory...the last good memory before Driftmark. He was ten, and she was eight. They were the best of friends, companions since infancy. He genuinely believed they'd always be together, that nothing would tear them asunder.

Until that day when he blinded her, robbing her of her sight while he was in a rage. No one to blame but himself.

Aemond sighed as he opened the window and was greeted by the distant towers of the Red Keep. Ten years have passed since he last seen the Capital, ten years since he last seen Lucera.

In the decade since he fostered at Old Town, Aemond has exchanged letters with his family, his mother and Helaena mostly. His father Viserys, and Aegon, just felt nonexistent.

The only reason why he returned was to attend the wedding of his sister Helaena to Jacaerys. His mother initially forbade him from coming home. Considering Rhaenyra has stayed in the Red Keep after a two-year absence following the death of Laenor Velaryon. The reason why his half-sister returned was due to the urging of an advisor she trusts more than anyone. That advisor, much to his surprise was none other than Lucera Velaryon. He never pegged his older sister to listen to anyone.

During his apparent exile to Old Town, Aemond honed his skills as a master swordsman under the harsh tutelage of Ser Criston Cole who acted as teacher and parental figure in the absence of his father. Every strike he suffered made him stronger, he trained hard to be better than his Uncle Daemon. Now that he's returned to the Capital, he's confident enough to survive any assassination attempt should Rhaenyra want his head.

Aemond twirled the small dagger kept hidden in his sleeve as they rode through the streets of King's Landing. Somehow, everything felt different from how he remembered it as a child. Everyone seems livelier, there's laughter, and a certain ease among the common folk. He remembered the reports he read while in Old Town, how his half-sister has taken initiative and has made petitions to open learning centers and medical practices throughout the Captial, the Vale, the North, and Driftmark. This move actually yielded positive results and have increased the economic values. This in turn gave the Blacks support from the common folk. His granduncle smarted over this turn of events and is still stewing as we speak. Though given how word spread throughout the kingdoms over what Aemond did to Princess Lucera, the Greens already lost support and have not been looked at in a positive light ever since.

Thinking about Lucera brought back that sickening guilt in his stomach. After ten years, he can still see the rock come down on her, the blood spilling from her head, and the screams that followed upon her awakening.

Aemond pressed the tip of his blade into his palm and drew a straight light, the skin split open and blood pooled out and dripped onto the floor of the wheelhouse. He breathed deeply as he clenched his hand tightly, his nails digging further into the self-inflicted wound. It hurt, but it's manageable. Preferable. This is the only way he felt he can atone for what he did to Lucera. The result collected many scars all over his body. Most of them by his own hand.

A knock on the wheelhouse door woke him from his self-loathing before Ser Criston Cole opened it. "Prince Aemond, we've arrived." The Kingsguard looked at the blood-soaked hand. "Again?" He asked, not surprised as he entered, pulling out a strip of cloth he kept with him daily.

Aemond was silent as he let his sworn sword tend to him.

"You need to stop doing this. The Queen will not appreciate her youngest son harming himself." Criston stated with a deep frown as he wrapped the cloth tightly around the prince's hand.

Aemond shook his head slightly, "I can't."

Criston sighed as he tied the knot tightly. "You can't keep punishing yourself any more than you already have." Criston said, shaking his own head as he watched his charge with sympathy.

"Ten years, and I still hear her screams." Aemond swallowed, "She was crying and begging her mother to take the darkness out of her eyes." He locked eyes with the knight, "I'm the one who did that to her. Don't say I don't deserve punishment."

Criston bowed his head and breathed out through his nose. "At least make an effort not to do that while we're here?"

Aemond nodded, but he didn't make any promises.

Criston sighed again, "Close enough."

Aemond and Criston left the wheelhouse and was greeted by the sight of his mother, Helaena, and Aegon. Alicent still wore her green ensemble accompanied by the seven-pointed star gleaming on her chest. Helaena wore a bright blue with yellow trimmings, her hair pulled back in a half ponytail. Aegon had this satisfied smirk as he sported Targaryen colors instead of their mother's house. Aemond himself wore all black to show respect for his father's House. Green never really looked good on him.

Aemond approached his family, catching the way his mother's eyes filled with tears of joy and fear upon seeing how her youngest son grew. The last time he saw her she was crying as she sent him to Old Town.

The King's youngest son stood a fair distance away from his family then bowed to his mother. "It's been too long Your Grace."

Alicent could no longer contain herself as she closed the distance and wrapped her arms around her son, unmindful of how she is seen. "Welcome home Aemond." She whispered tearfully, burying her face in his shoulders. He stood a head taller than her now.

Aemond embraced his mother, being mindful of his injury. The last thing he wants is to dirty his mother's clothes. The love and safety he felt within Alicent's arms never fails to bring him joy.

Alicent pulled back and cupped her son's face, her eyes full of sadness, regret and affection. "You grew up so well. And so tall." She said in marvel as she got a better look at him.

Aemond smiled, "I trained hard every day."

Alicent breathed out a small laugh, "I can tell." She felt it when he embraced her.

Helaena approached them with a calm welcoming smile, "Aemond." She said before she too gave him a hug. Aemond could not resist lift her up and spinning her around. The motion drew out peals of laughter from the princess.

Aemond set her back on her feet and assessed his sister, "Helaena, you're a woman now." He said, completely thrown off by the transformation of his elder sister.

Helaena smiled peacefully at her brother, "We all grew."

Aemond then turned to his older brother who slowly approached him and was surprised to realize he's taller than Aegon. For a long time, the brothers stared at each other.

Then Aegon opened his mouth, "Glad to see you're not dead."

Aemond didn't take offence, "Nice to know you're not sober."

Aegon shrugged, "I was celebrating. I'm not marrying Helaena." He said with an easy smirk, happy beyond words when Helaena's betrothal to Jacaerys was announced to the entire Realm.

Aemond huffed out a small laugh as he held his hand out and the two brothers clasped each other's arms. Though they weren't close to each other, they had enough sense to stay neutral.

Alicent then cleared her throat, "Let's get you settled in your chambers. It been a long journey for you."

Aemond nodded, "Yes it has."

The family of Green made their way back inside the Red Keep. "You'll have to forgive His Grace for not coming to greet you." Alicent said to her son, her face somber and full of discomfort at the mention of her husband.

"Never really expected him to. We hardly ever talk to each other." Aemond stated, not even bothered by Viserys' absence.

"His condition has worsened in the last ten years since you've last seen him." Alicent frowned, "He remains abed most of the time. We have to administer milk of the poppy to manage his pain."

"It's true. He's completely different from how you last saw him." Aegon said, frowning deeply as he walked beside his brother.

"A living corpse, decaying as he breathes. It devours him slowly, mind, body and soul." Helaena said, her eyes distant as she spoke.

Aemond had long gotten used to Helaena's use of riddles, she writes them in their daily letters to each other.

"That puts it mildly." Aegon commented.

"If the King is unable to leave his chambers, who's ruling the Realm?" Aemond asked, while he knew his father was sickly, he never realized how worse it got for him.

"Rhaenyra." Alicent answered, her face grim, "She rules as Princess Regent."

"Grandfather cannot be too pleased with that." Aemond stated considered Otto is the Hand and has stubbornly worked tirelessly to put his bloodline on the throne.

Aegon turned to their mother. "You never told him?"

Aemond glanced between his brother then mother, "Told me what?"

Alicent sighed as she passed by servants who bowed to the royal family. "Father was dismissed from his position." That sentence caught him by surprise, "He was denounced before the court by the king himself. He will return to Old Town after the wedding."

"For what reason?" Aemond asked as they made it to the royal wing where the apartments were located.

Aegon plopped down on the chaise closest to the window, "For conspiring to put me on the throne instead." He said as he propped his feet up, smiling with ease as he laid back. "Grandfather was unhappy when the king added how I am to be removed from succession."

"You must be so forlorn." Aemond sarcastically said to his brother, they both knew how much Aegon despised the idea of ruling.

"Yes, I am so sad." Aegon said with a grin, ecstatic at how he no longer has to bear the weight of the crown.

Alicent frowned deeply at her eldest child. "Apparently Aegon made the request to His Grace himself." She said, displeased and ashamed of how her son threw away kingship when it was expected of him.

"I can't challenge Rhaenyra for the throne if I'm not in line for succession. We're hardly a threat to each other anyway." Aegon stated, happy with his newfound freedom. "Besides, she has more children than you."

"So, if Grandfather is no longer the Hand, then who is?" Aemond asked, steering the topic away from Aegon as Alicent looked ready to bat the young man on the ears.

Alicent sighed, "Daemon Targaryen. Your Uncle."

"Can't say I should be surprised considering how he's wanted to serve at his brother's side. Now he serves his wife." Aemond said as he leaned back against the wall beside the fireplace.

"We have new members on the Small Council." Helaena informed her brother, "Grand Maester Mellos died of a heart attack last winter, he was succeeded Maester Gerardys. Lord Corlys has returned and has retaken his seat as Master of Ships. Larys Strong was attacked by a hunting dog who escaped the kennels."

"With that foot of his, I'm surprised he didn't get killed by the stairs." Aemond shrugged then asked, "Who's the new Master of Whispers?"

"Not 'Master'; Mistress." Helaena answered with a faint smile.

His mother bowed her head, fiddling with her nails more than she should.

"The Mistress of Whispers...is Princess Lucera Velaryon."

Chapter Text

In the furthest end of the Royal Apartments, far from the Greens, Princess Lucera, the Mistress of Whispers was preparing for the day. She stood in the middle of her chambers as her ladies-in-waiting dressed her. The princess remained still as one of them laced up the back of her navy-blue dress with red trimmings and gold embroidery. The second one styled her dark hair in an intricate updo. The third stood before a shelf holding over a dozen beautifully crafted blind masks. While they look like masks to wear at a ball, these have no eyeholes for they were unnecessary for the blind princess. After debating for a full five minutes, she picked up the mask with a red jewel in the middle of the forehead and smaller ones around the eyes.

Lucera's vacant eyes stared ahead of her as her hair was finished before the mask was fastened to her face and tied at the back of her head. The one who styled her hair went to retrieve her cane. Not to help her walk, but to guide her through the dark.

The door to her chambers opened before another lady-in-waiting rushed to the princess' side and whispered in her ear.

Lucera listened intently as she processed this information. "I see." Her hand traced silver dragon head with her fingers. The details to the scales and to the orb within its jaw and jewel encrusted eyes.

"He's finally returned." Lucera hummed as her four ladies-in-waiting stood dutifully before their princess. They were not just servants, each of them serves as her ears and commanders as truth seekers.

Sara Snow, the half-sister of Cregan Stark wore her grey dress with white trimmings. Her Stark grey eyes and stoic long face betrayed none of her emotions. Her brown hair tied back in a braid. Three years after Lucera lost her sight, Rickon Stark agreed to foster Jacaerys Velaryon for two years. By the time her brother returned with members of House Stark, they granted their request to have Sara serve Lucera.

Eva Storm, base-born daughter of Borros of House Baratheon. Her dress the color of yellow with black trimmings. She held herself taller than the princess and fellow handmaidens. Her black hair done in a half ponytail and her striking blue eyes gleamed with distrust towards anyone outside the Black faction. When word reached Rhaenyra about Borros' illegitimate daughter, she requested the Lord of Storm's End to send the girl to the Capital.

Melira Stone, a young woman who was conceived by one of the Vale's bannermen and served Lady Jeyne of House Arryn. Her dress was the color of blue skies with white trimmings. Her sandy blonde hair pulled back into a bun and deep blue eyes carried wisdom and calculations. Rhaenyra visited Lady Jeyne to propose the initiative to open learning centers and medical practices as a test run since she shares blood ties to House Arryn through Queen Aemma. The Heir to the Throne spoke with Melira just once and offered her a place as Lucera's aide.

Nyma Sand, a Dornish woman who sailed to King's Landing to find work in the Streets of Silk where she met her employer, Mysaria, the White Worm, and an ally of Daemon Targaryen. She sported a bright orange dress with red trimmings. With Nyma's dark hair, olive skin, and large brown eyes, she is able to loosen the lips of any man with her charm. Through Nyma, she is able to get the daily updates from Mysaria in regard to illegal activity in Flea Bottom.

All four ladies-in-waiting, base-born, female, intelligent, loyal and brave. In spite of their beginnings, they found themselves in the service of the blind princess whom they heard so much about. They learned about what one of the Greens did, what Prince Aemond Targaryen, youngest son to Queen Alicent committed against the gentle princess. They were also aware of the rumors about the three Velaryon children's parentage, how they were Harwin Strong's illegitimate offspring. The full story of how she took the blow to shield her older brother from the attack became an inspiration to all who heard it. Since the moment they met Lucera, she has demonstrated an unyielding defiance towards societal expectations of the female gender and how she hard she has sought to make a change with the efforts of her family, especially her mother. With Rhaenyra as Queen, and Princess Lucera as the Mistress of Whispers, the base-born handmaidens believed in the positive change that will move Westeros forward.

"Where are they now?" Lucera asked, her hands folded over the dragon's head of her cane.

"Aemond's chambers." Nyma answered since she's the one who saw the Greens enter.

Sara breathed in deeply before her eyes turned completely white as she warged into one of the pigeons atop the Red Keep's tower. The others were used to it as it helped them find information in hard-to-reach places.

"The Queen and her children are discussing the changes to the Small Council and Aegon's removal from succession." Sara said, her eyes still white as she listened through the bird. "Aemond is surprised, shocked even when he learned you were Mistress of Whispers." She added before she blinked, grey eyes returned to her.

Eva smirked, "Can't blame him considering what he did to the princess. It was only a matter of time." Her eyes held fury at the thought of Aemond and what his actions cost Lucera.

"How did he seem to you, aside from the shock?" Lucera asked, blinking behind her blind mask, her lips set in a firm line.

Nyma decided to answer her, "Well, he's very tall, taller than his mother and siblings. I'd wager he reaches Prince Daemon's height. Long silver hair that reaches below his shoulders, wears all black, long limbs, strong legs, muscles..." Nyma smirked as she remembered the lust she felt and how much energy she could squeeze out of him.

Melira cleared her throat to snap Nyma out of her stupor.

"What, I'm not gonna fuck him, I can just imagine fucking him." Nyma shrugged, enemy or not, he's quite delicious to look at.

Melira sighed at the Dornish woman and the passion underneath her. It's a miracle any man could survive her. One of them being Prince Aegon who established an open sexual relationship with her. Sometimes she would catch the daughter of the sands leave Aegon's chambers with a victorious smirk. Aegon...well he ended up stumbling the first few times after an entire night with his paramour.

"You enjoy this job way too much." Melira stated to Nyma.

Nyma smiled coyly, "Men can never deny the weakness of the flesh. They never stop talking when they're happy. Plus, it's fun to suck the life right out of them."

Melira frowned at her friend whose habit of sharing her conquests never seizes.

"Aemond has trained under Ser Criston Cole for ten years. There's no doubt he's become stronger as a result." Eva stated as she glanced at the princess.

Lucera smirked, "Hm. I always knew he'd be a proficient swordsman. Turns out I was right."

The ladies-in-waiting glanced at one another in concern. How can the princess laugh at how dangerous Aemond has become.

"Your orders, Princess Lucera?" Sara asked, standing dutifully before the Mistress of Whispers.

"For now, watch him. Report his daily routines, who he speaks to, and where he goes." Lucera instructed; her face stony behind the eyeless mask as she spoke with authority befitting a princess.

The four truth seekers bowed to Lucera. "At once Princess."

Melira and Nyma left to fulfill their orders while Sara and Eva remained with the princess.

"Best we meet with Princess Regent. We have to inform her about Aemond." Lucera said as she and her two handmaidens left the royal chambers. The sound of the cane tapping on the stone floor echoed in the corridor, announcing the arrival of the blind princess and guiding her through the dark.

Sara and Eva flanked her, their hands clasped together, hidden underneath their sleeves. Their faces set in in frown as their eyes and ears watched for any and all who may be whispering evil plots.

Servants and courtiers parted and bowed to the princess, her crafted mask served as both her crown and a reminder of her position on the Small Council. Though she was robbed of her sight, her Valyrian beauty never diminished. In fact, her eyeless mask enhanced her frightening and mysterious looks.

Eva caught a small group of men hiding behind the corner, their voices low in a hushed whisper. She only saw one of their faces, their lips moving frantically. She scrutinized the movement of their mouth. 'Otto...Help...Send message...Aemond.'

Eva glanced at Sara, her left eye winking rapidly, passing along a silent message.

Sara winked her right eye twice, letting her know she understood.

Lucera entered King Viserys' bedchamber and was met with the smell of decaying flesh, medicine and incense. Sitting close to the King's bedside was Princess Rhaenyra who was pregnant with her sixth child. Lucera could tell because of the scent.

Rhaenyra turned to her only daughter and smiled upon seeing Lucera. Despite the mask covering the upper part of her face, a mother knows just how beautiful their child is.

Lucera bowed in respect to her grandsire and mother, "Forgive me for disturbing you, Your Grace, Princess Regent. I came to deliver the latest report as Mistress of Whispers." Lucera spoke with respect to her superior. Her hands folded over the dragon on her cane.

Rhaenyra breathed out a small laugh, "You disturb nothing, my daughter." She said as she rubbed her swollen belly. "You can still call me 'mother.'"

Lucera returned the smile that resembles the older woman. "It would be unbecoming of a Council Member not to address their superior by their title."

Rhaenyra gave her daughter a teasing smile, "And I have it on good authority to order you not to do that."

"No promises...Mother." Lucera responded with that same smile.

Sara and Eva could not suppress their smiles at the mother and daughter banter.

"What news do you bring?" Rhaenyra asked as she schooled her features.

Lucera's smile vanished as she calmly spoke the next words to the queen-to-be, "Prince Aemond Targaryen has arrived."

Rhaenyra's grip on the arm of her chair tightened as her face filled with anger and contempt at the name.

Lucera can feel the air shift with her mother's mood. "Mother, I understand your emotions, and where your thoughts steer towards. But you are not a kinslayer." Lucera calmly said to her mother.

"After what he did to you? I have a right as a mother to avenge my child's suffering." Rhaenyra seethed, ready to unleash dragon fire upon the boy who nearly killed her only daughter.

"You have a responsibility not to instigate a war. Remember, the only reason Queen Alicent finally agreed to the match was the promise you made to not kill her youngest son." Lucera frowned, even though Rhaenyra cannot see her eyes, she knew her mother can sense her own exasperation.

"A deal you proposed to her yourself." Rhaenyra acknowledges as she rubbed her belly.

"It's a fair compromise Mother. In any deal, both sides are unhappy when they lose something to gain another." Lucera stated then explained, "This wedding for Jacaerys and Helaena will extinguish the flames between our factions. Renege on your part of the deal, fire will consume us all." She gave her mother a stern expression that only a princess would dare give to her superior, "I will not pass down this pointless animosity onto my brother's children."

Sara and Eva only witnessed this heated argument a few times. The mother wants to retaliate, the daughter wants peace.

Rhaenyra caressed her belly as she regarded her daughter who carried the fire of a dragon. The way she held herself, how she stands her ground is just surreal. She sees a part of herself within the girl, but she mostly sees Harwin. A fierce and loyal protector to those they care about and the future generations that follow them.

Rhaenyra allowed a fond smile to grace her lovely face, "You always knew how to make the most unreasonable of people bend to your will."

"You acknowledge how unreasonable you are?" Lucera asked rhetorically since her mother is a hard person to argue against.

Rhaenyra chose not to answer that question. "You'd make a fine leader at Driftmark. The Lady of the Tides."

Lucera let out a bitter laugh, "Come now Mother. You and I both know it would never work. Joffrey should rule Driftmark. Though he's still young, he can learn to be a leader. Besides," She gripped her cane, "I've long since accepted the reality that I will never marry or have children lest I become a burden to them."

Rhaenyra frowned, "You're not a burden. Not to this family."

The corner of Lucera's mouth quirked up a little. "That's because you like me too much."

"One of the curses of motherhood." Rhaenyra stated, loving each of her children and the lengths she went to protect them.

"Speaking of," Lucera began with a sigh, "you're not taking it easy as you're supposed to."

Rhaenyra rubbed her belly, "I manage."

Lucera walked towards her mother, letting her cane and hands guide her to the Princess Regent. When she was close enough, Rhaenyra held her hand out and wrapped her fingers around her daughter's.

The younger princess knelt before her mother and laid a hand on the swollen tummy. Feeling the life stir within the woman brought her envy as well as love. She made her peace with her condition, how it impedes on her desire for a family of her own, but she swore to be there for her mother and siblings, to guide and guard them with everything she has.

"You can't push yourself." Lucera said with certainty and warning, "I refuse to let you die before you are crowned."

Rhaenyra felt a sense of DeJa'Vu. She remembers this exact moment with her own mother, heavy with child. How Queen Aemma, fragile yet gentle and kind, told her how the birthing bed is their battlefield. How Rhaenyra wished she could go back and stayed close to her mother, to keep her safe from the pain she suffered.

"And you won't. Remember, this is not my first battle in the birthing bed." Rhaenyra assured her daughter as she cupped the younger woman's cheek.

"I know, I was there for one of them." Lucera gave a faint smile.

Rhaenyra let out a small laugh, "You yourself put up quite a battle that day. You fought like Seven Hells to get out of me."

"I said I was sorry." Lucera let out a playful whine, making the older woman laugh.

Rhaenyra turned to her sickly father who breathed peacefully but still kept a smile on his bandaged face. "Your grandsire hoped to name you Aemma." Rhaenyra breathed out through her nose, "But you deserve your own identity."

"Will this one be named Aemma?" Lucera asked, her hand still on the belly.

"No, this child, if it's a girl, she will be Visenya." Rhaenyra answered, remembering how she declared she is to have a sister named Visenya all those years ago.

Hearing that name reminded her of that precious memory she shared with Aemond, how he reminded her of their ancestor and how she brought her brother the kingdoms.

"Then let's hope my younger sister will honor her namesake and become worthy of Darksister." Lucera said before she pushed herself off the ground and stood up. "But I mean it, don't push yourself, don't take on more than you can handle."

Rhaenyra knew her daughter will not let up unless she swears it. "Very well, I'll try not to overdo it."

Lucera nodded, "Good. And mother, please stop thinking about murdering your half-brother, bad thoughts and bad feelings aren't good for the baby."

Rhaenyra exhaled and groaned, "Okay, I'll try not to think about it. Though I can't say the same thing for my husband."

"I'll talk to him. Hand or not, he is an impulsive man." Lucera stated, knowing how reigning in her stepfather takes more effort, patience and a side of prayer.

Rhaenyra gave her daughter a look of sympathy, "I wish you good fortune in that battle."

Lucera sighed, "Let's just hope I don't end up killing Daemon instead." She said as she left the King's chambers with Sara and Eva.

"Now onto our next order of business." Lucera could already feel that headache coming back. Great as Daemon is as a parent, there are times where she feels like her stepfather's babysitter.

Eva came beside her and whispered, "Princess, there's something we feel you should know. Forgive us for not saying anything earlier, but we wished not to stress Princess Rhaenyra in her condition."

Lucera paused in her walk and turned to the Storm child's direction, "What happened?"

Eva leaned in closer to her ear and whispered what she saw on the journey to the King's chamber.

Lucera hummed as Eva pulled away. "Otto is still locked in his bed chambers, correct?"

Sara nodded, "Yes Princess, I checked while you were conversing with your mother." She confirmed after warging into one of the birds and spying Otto at his desk writing something on a parchment. His face grim and sour as he looked ready for battle.

Lucera tapped her fingers on the cane's head, "Daemon will want to know. It will distract him from the Aemond affair." She said as she resumed her journey, her ears picked up where she knew her stepfather would be at.

With the loss of her sight, her other senses opened, becoming entuned with every sound around her. The way people walk, how they smell, how they breathe, and how they feel. After a decade of training her sense of smell and hearing, it has all become second nature to her. Listening to the voices around her proved to be an asset in her position as Mistress of Whispers.

They arrived at the training yard, she picked up the familiar scent and sounds of her stepfather training Jacaerys and Joffrey. Just as she was about to step into the training yard and call out to her family, Sara and Eva pulled her back out of view.

"What-"

"He's here." Eva hissed as she and Sara stayed close to the princess' side protectively.

Lucera didn't know what they were talking about until she picked up on the voice of Ser Criston Cole. She hardly has any memory of his face, but the sound of his voice whenever she watched him train her brother and uncles stood out to her. He always praised Aemond for his skill with the sword. Whereever Ser Criston Cole is, Aemond is close by.

Another voice, one she doesn't recognize but felt she knew reached her ears. It was only when Daemon spoke the name did it confirm her suspicions.

"Aemond." Lucera whispered to herself.

Sara sighed, "So much for distracting him."

Chapter Text

After Aemond's things were dropped off in his chambers, and a short rest, the youngest son of the King decided to visit the courtyard and spar with Ser Criston Cole.

"Your hand is not healed, my prince." Criston Cole stated after changing the cloth on Aemond's hand.

"I'll be fine." Aemond brushed off any discomfort as he held his training sword in his right hand. Gripping the hilt rubbed the cloth against the open cut on his palm, the pain motivating him as he took his stance against his mentor.

On the other end of the courtyard, spectators gathered to witness the prince spar against the Kingsguard. While some watched in awe at Aemond's prowess with a sword, many of them whispered to one another, giving the prince dirty looks for blinding Princess Rhaenyra's daughter ten years ago.

Aemond paid the whispers no mind, he's listened to them for ten years. The judgmental glares, the pitying stares, what his life will be like from now on for nearly killing his half-sister's daughter. Anytime he hears Lucera's name or remembers her face, the anguish strangles him from deep within. It's why he trained every day, wielding the sword became an outlet to vent all the self-loathing and anger that festers within him. Now that he's here in the Red Keep where Lucera lives as the Mistress of Whispers, he knew it's only a matter of time before he sees her. He can only imagine the ire she may still feel towards him after ten years.

His spar against Criston ended with the blade at the knight's throat. The crowd around him erupted in applause before he lowered his blade. His mentor had a proud smile on his face as sweat glistened on both of their foreheads.

A slow clap echoed in the courtyard, making the prince and the knight turn as the crowd parted. Aemond's eyes widened when he immediately recognized who it is.

The clapping stopped as the older silver-haired man regarded Aemond with a smirk. "Well done nephew. I'm quite impressed you were able to beat Ser Criston Cole. I was mildly expecting you to wield a rock." Daemon commented, his eyes filled with hate as he regarded his nephew.

Aemond felt the sting at that last sentence but kept the discomfort off his face under his uncle's scrutiny. "Hello uncle." His eyes shifted to the two dark haired individuals standing close to Daemon. One was a full-grown man in his twenties while the other looked like a carbon copy.

"Nephews." Aemond acknowledged as Jacaerys glared at him while keeping his young brother, Joffrey, close to his person.

"Though I suppose I should call you 'brother.'" Aemond said, eliciting more glares from the older of the two.

"Never call me brother." Jacaerys warned him, gripping his sparring sword in his hand tightly. He has no personal problem with Helaena, he actually carries a fondness for his aunt and considers her the kindest person in all Seven Kingdoms. She loves her brother, but Jacaerys despises him with every fiber of his being. It's not hard to imagine how extremely difficult it is to refrain from killing Aemond.

"You're right. Too soon. I must say, I hardly recognize you, Prince Jacaerys. You've grown quite...strong." Aemond's compliment was in actuality a taunt to call out their bastardy. It's no secret in the court that Rhaenyra's first three children are illegitimate. The children grew up with those rumors, they were used to it. But for likes of Aemond to rub it in their face. Jacaerys is just about ready to tear Aemond a new asshole.

Jacaerys began to lift his sword and take a step forward.

"Lucy!" Joffrey exclaimed in joy upon seeing their sister before leaving Jacaerys' side.

Aemond looked up and was caught completely off guard by a young woman who transversed the courtyard with a cane in her hand, a navy-blue dress with red trimmings and gold stitches. Her dark hair pulled up in a stylish updo and a golden eyeless mask with a red gem in the middle and smaller ones around the eyes. She walked with confidence and grace, flanked by two women, one in grey, the other in yellow. The audience parted for her, bowing in respect to the Mistress of Whispers.

Joffrey made it to Lucera's side as she held her arm out to hug him to her side. She gave the boy an affectionate smile as she combed her fingers through his thick curly locks. She whispered tenderly to her little brother before letting the boy guide her to Jacaerys and Daemon.

"I'm sorry to disturb you, but there is a matter I must speak with Prince Daemon about. It is of great importance." She spoke with a gentle commanding voice as she addressed her stepfather. The upper half of her face was concealed, but her lips and jawline were set in a firm line.

Daemon glanced at Aemond who made no effort to hide his shock at Lucera's appearance. He knew what the boy is thinking, even with her eyes hidden behind the blind mask, she holds the beauty she inherited from her mother.

"As you wish daughter." Daemon said then turned to his stepsons. "Jace, Joff, why don't you visit the King, I'm sure my brother wishes to hear your voices."

Jacaerys could hear the message clearly, 'Don't start a fight you can't win, especially with someone like Aemond.' With a resigned nod, he grabbed his little brother's shoulder and left the yard, but not without giving Aemond one last glare.

Daemon went to her side where she easily looped her arm around her stepfather's. Just as they looked like they were ready to walk away, Lucera spoke in a calm voice, "Welcome home, Prince Aemond. Ser Criston Cole." She didn't turn to face their direction as their faces filled with surprise.

Daemon smirked at his rivals before escorting his stepdaughter back inside. The handmaidens gave Aemond cold glances before following after the royals.

Aemond let out a breath he did not realize he was holding. He was vaguely away of Criston guiding him away from the courtyard through another entrance. When they found a more secluded part of the castle, Aemond leaned against the stone wall and began to breathe deeply as he felt his insides liquify and threaten to come out of his mouth.

Criston rubbed his prince's back, "Easy, breathe... breathe." He coached the young man as he looked around, making sure no one sees the prince in this state.

When Aemond was calm enough to open his mouth without vomiting, he turned to Criston with a look of bewilderment. "That's...Lucera?" He exclaimed, his tongue rolling the 'r' in her name.

"It would appear so." Criston nodded, just as surprised and caught off guard by the princess' calm demeanor when she addressed Aemond.

Aemond swallowed his saliva, "She's not how I expected her to be." She really wasn't. The way she carried herself, unburdened and undeterred as though this was all completely normal for her.

"Well, given she's been blind for ten years, she's learned to adapt to pretty much everything. Loss of one sense increases the others." Criston stated with a look of mild discomfort as he remembered the lack of reaction to Aemond's presence. It was off-putting how she hardly gave an inkling of anger when she spoke to him. The ones who are the most relaxed in combat are the most dangerous.

"That's probably the reason why she's the Mistress of Whispers. She hears everything in this castle." Aemond rubbed a hand down his face, "She's probably listening to us right now as we speak."

Criston nodded with pursed lips, "The mask was a surprise."

Aemond agreed, "Indeed. No eyes in that mask."

Aemond was genuinely surprised by how she grew up. He remembered how timid and gentle Lucera was when they were children, but when something annoys her, she sheep-shifts that person's bed as retaliation. It's what he liked most about her, how she was willing to come to his defense when things got too hard. She, a daughter that is seen without value, and him, a second son who stands to inherit nothing. The expectations for them were low, but they were comfortable enough to confide in each other. But everything's different now. Lucera lives in darkness while Aemond lives in exile. Yet despite that, Lucera has proven her worth as Mistress of Whispers, and Aemond has become one of the greatest swordsmen to rival Daemon's skill.

What Aemond was not prepared for, was how beautiful Lucera became in a span of ten years. The mask could not conceal that beautifully sculptured jawline or soft lips. It made her look mysterious, ethereal, and untouchable. When she spoke, soft, calm, yet carries power and command, something within felt compelled to drop to his knees before her, to be at her mercy. Yet another part of him wanted to touch her, to remove her mask and see through the windows to her soul and claim it to entwine with his own.

"My prince, perhaps it's best we keep our distance from her for now." Criston warned him as he caught the distant look in Aemond's eyes.

"Yes, we should." Aemond agreed, but his thoughts were still drawn to Lucera. Something about her called out to him, beckoning the prince with the call of a siren, enchanting and luring him to a beautiful and worthy death.

The guilt he carried for ten years still nested in the pit of his stomach. All the scars he decorated his body with are his atonement for what he committed against her. That voice in the back of his mind wanted him to speak to her, to apologize and grovel for her forgiveness. But another voice that sounded similar to his mother pleaded with him to stay far away from Lucera.

Aemond hid a smile, he can't approach her yet, but that doesn't mean he can't watch her from a distance. She won't even know he's there.

Chapter Text

Ten-year-old Lucera wandered through the castle of Dragonstone, ladies-in-waiting that were assigned to her escorted the blind princess to her mother's solar.

When they knocked on the door, announcing the arrival of Lucera, Rhaenyra permitted them to enter.

Rhaenyra turned from her desk and saw her only daughter enter. She smiled upon seeing the beauty within her child's face.

"Am I disturbing you mother?" Lucera asked in her ever calm and respectful voice.

Rhaenyra smiled, "Of course not love. Come here." She opened her arms out to her daughter who followed the direction of her mother's voice and was enveloped in a familiar embrace.

Lucera nuzzled against her mother's warmth, drawing courage and strength from the woman she admires more than anyone. "I need to speak with you alone." Lucera whispered, surprising the woman who turned to the servants and asked them to give them some privacy.

The door shut behind them, leaving the mother and daughter alone.

Lucera pulled back, but her hands never left her mother. Her face filled with discomfort as she prepared to say the words that will seal their fate.

"Lucy, what's the matter?" Rhaenyra asked as she watched her only daughter take a deep breath, her smaller hands grasped her mother's.

What Lucera said next surprised the heir to the throne, "We have to go back to King's Landing."

"What?"

Lucera swallowed then repeated slowly, "We have to go home."

Rhaenyra steeled herself and gave her daughter a firm response. "No."

Lucera gave her mother the same expression, "But we must."

Rhaenyra opened her mouth to refuse, but Lucera cut her off with one sentence that struck her really hard.

"Grandfather is alone." Lucera said, staring at her mother pleadingly. Even though she could not see Rhaenyra, she can sense the conflict within her.

Rhaenyra let out a shuddering breath as she thought about her father. The last time she spoke to him, she and her family left for Dragonstone. The sadness and understanding in the older man's face never left her.

At Rhaenyra's silence, Lucera's hand cupped the side of her mother's face. "I know you're scared. I am too. But we cannot hide here forever." Her voice cracked slightly, but Lucera knew she can't let up, "The longer we stay here, the more power the Greens will have." She breathed out through her nose, "We can't let them win while Grandfather is sick." The little girl's tears began to build up, "We have to go back for Grandfather...We have to Mother, please." She cried as she tearfully begged her mother.

Rhaenyra's tears fell as she pulled her daughter into a hug, her face full of sorrow and pain as she thought of her father. Even though he was not a good ruler, she considered him a kind and loving father any child would be lucky to have. Knowing she left out of fear for her children made her feel like a rotten child. What's worse, she feels like a rotten mother for being a coward and hiding away on Dragonstone.

Later that night with her children put to bed, Rhaenyra and Daemon began to discuss the possibility of leaving the island.

"Do you want to go back?" Daemon asked after he listened to Rhaenyra tell him what happened with Lucera earlier.

The husband and wife sat at the table. Daemon noted the redness in Rhaenyra's eyes. "The last time we were close to the Greens, Lucera lost her sight."

"The Green Bitch's son is far away in Old Town. He can't hurt her." Daemon stated after receiving reports from Mysaria.

"It's not just that, our children will be subjected to the ongoing rumors. Jace, Lucy and Joffrey. How can I protect them from that?" Rhaenyra asked, her voice cracking as she stared at her husband.

Daemon held his wife's hand and locked eyes with hers. "They are your children. The blood of the dragon runs in their veins. Anyone who tries to hurt our children, we'll remind them who rules the Seven Kingdoms." He vowed, thirsty for the opportunity to get back at the Greens, Otto Hightower specifically. Take away the head, and the body falls. "But she's right, we can't leave your father alone at the mercy of those snakes."

Rhaenyra stared at her husband, the man she held the most affection and love for despite being her uncle and how taboo it was considered by everyone around them. Deep in her heart, she knew she can't keep hiding forever no matter how much she desires it. To keep her precious children safe, born out of love yet judged for her sins. This world ruled by gender expectations and hypocrisy, there are times where she wants to burn it and recreate it into something better. To let it be a world that will never look upon her children with disgust or hate for how they were created.

"Your orders, my Queen?" Daemon asked his wife with deep love and affection for his other half.

Rhaenyra breathed in deeply, closing her eyes as she remembered her father. The sickness he carries, the pain he endures every day trying to rule a realm. She has a duty as a mother to protect her children. A duty as a daughter to help her father. A duty as future Queen to protect the Seven Kingdoms.

She opened her eyes, fire burning within them as resolve steeled itself across her face. "We leave for King's Landing."

"I always knew that cunt won't go down without a fight." Daemon said as he sat behind his desk in the Tower of the Hand.

Lucera sat in the chair in front of him with her hand resting on top of the dragonhead on her cane and her left fingers tapping on the arm of her chair.

Sara and Eva left to watch over the Greens and keep their ears open for any more information regarding any plot.

"Yes. Even though his granddaughter will become Jacaerys' princess consort. Nothing will ever satisfy him. The fool." Lucera said, disappointed and tired as she leaned back in her chair.

"Aemond plays a role in this. His arrival has triggered Otto's plan." Daemon said, annoyed but not surprised.

"Hm. With Aegon removed from succession, Aemond is the King's last male heir to the throne. How he intends to do so and what methods he is willing to use is up for debate." Lucera gripped her cane tightly, "We can't rule out the possibility of kidnapping one of her children to make mother give up her crown. Or assassination of her bloodline. Remove any claimants that would dare challenge him."

"I knew I should've killed Otto when the King stripped him of his title as Hand." Daemon said, itching to use Darksister to split his head open.

"We can't. Not yet at least." Lucera said with a frown, "Otto may be the leader of the Greens, but I believe someone else pulls the strings."

"Oh?" Daemon raised an eyebrow at his stepdaughter.

"Otto is a second son, he follows the orders of his older brother Hobert to raise House Hightower's standing. But there's more going on behind the scenes. House Hightower is just a tool to succeed." Lucera sighed through her nose, "Whispers from the Citadel speak of their distaste for House Targaryen and our dragons. They're building something, I don't know what, but it will cripple our House if our dragons should fall."

"So, you want to use Otto to get evidence of what the maesters are planning." Daemon stated as he digested Lucera's information. "Are we sure it is only the maesters?"

"Just a small group of them. They were displeased when Grand Maester Mellos was replaced by Geradys when Orwyle returned to the Citadel." Lucera explained after hearing the information from one of the spies she planted in the Citadel.

Daemon scoffed and smiled bitterly, "They've always hated the idea of magic. Believing it is blasphemy and doesn't align with the Seven. Cunts."

"I won't disagree with you there." Lucera smirked, "Magic is rare, but it is real. Targaryens aren't the only ones who wield it."

Daemon gave his stepdaughter a knowing smile, "Ah, yes, the 'wargs' and 'greenseers' you've employed."

"Yes, the North is quite mysterious. I quite enjoy hearing their stories and customs." Lucera said, remembering how her brother excitedly regaled tales from the North when he fostered at Winterfell. But it is so much better coming from Sara, a woman with powerful blood of the First Men.

"Is that how Larys was killed?" Daemon asked despite knowing the answer, but he wanted confirmation from the young princess.

Lucera didn't answer verbally, but her smirk did widen.

"You are the most dangerous woman in Westeros." Daemon said with a proud smile, he can say for certain he hit the gold mine by having Lucera as his daughter.

Lucera laughed softly, "Thank you."

"You've kept an eye on Aemond for three years now." Daemon's statement caused her smile to wane, "You could have had him killed at any time. Why do you let him live?"

Lucera smile became bitter and rueful, "If I were to do that, I'd be no different from our rivals. By killing him, I'd only prove them right. I refuse to give them that satisfaction."

"After what he did to you? Why are you not angry at him?" Daemon asked, unable to understand what goes on through the girl's mind. If it'd been him, he'd make things even. An eye for an eye.

Lucera scoffed, "You think I never felt anger whenever I hear Aemond's name? That I don't feel enraged every single time I remember his face?" She paused as her left hand went to the scar beneath her hair, "I too have moments where I want to take revenge on him, pay back the debt he owes me." She breathed deeply as she fought to reign in her emotions. "But then I remember where I am now. The reason why I am the Mistress of Whispers. I hear everything from Dorne to the North. We have a majority of supporters for the Blacks. Aemond's attack actually brought the Houses in our favor while destroying the Greens' reputation." Lucera smirked as she reveled in the results, "Exchanging my sight to realize and fulfill our vision for a future worth living in is considered fair."

Daemon could not deny Lucera's explanation. Even back then, she knew how to think about the bigger picture and what must be done to ensure the rule of the Targaryen dynasty.

Despite the mask covering his stepdaughter's eyes, he can tell she has the same fire burning within them as they did with her mother. It took the tears and pleas of a daughter of ten to bring them back to King's landing. After eight years of tolerating rumors, gaining support and rooting out Otto's lackeys on the Small Council, the odds are in their favor. Now they just need to wait for the right moment to catch Otto off guard and expose the Citadel for their plot to in trying to usurp House Targaryen.

"You resemble your mother when you smile, but that spark...is very similar to King Jaehaerys." Daemon commented, seeing the similarities between Lucera and his grandfather. Jaehaerys was decisive in both thought and deed, and always sought the most peaceable ends. In times of trouble, instead of brooding on the issues, Jaehaerys would shrug off his sorrows and plunge himself into his work. He never acted without thinking and did not trust in chance. Nor did Jaehaerys like to make outright threats but had other ways of making his disapproval felt.

Lucera stopped lamenting over her lost eyesight after a few months and sought to train her other senses. The sound and vibrations around her helped her see through the darkness. Even at a young age, she sought to help her mother and the people in the lowest parts of the Capital. By listening to the troubles among the smallfolk, she conferred with Rhaenyra to help the ones who need them the most.

Lucera smiled softly at the compliment, she listened to the stories about her ancestor's longest reign in the Targaryen dynasty. She wants everyone in her family to emulate his ideals and keep the realm from discord. But that would be asking for too much.

"By the way, while we're on the subject. Do you still have that broach?" Daemon asked his stepdaughter as he remembered something.

Lucera knew what he was talking about. Alicent gave her youngest son a broach with a silver dragon curled around a green gem. Aemond carried that with him to Old Town. But three years ago, Daemon's spies stole it and sent it back to the Capital. Lucera's spies intercepted them and brought the broach to her. She knew what it meant, what her stepfather would do. So, she immediately consulted with the Queen and showed her that piece of jewelry. Even though Lucera could not see the woman's face, she knew of the fear that constricted her. Daemon was literally telling Alicent that he can have Aemond killed at any moment. That's how Lucera was able to convince Alicent to a betrothal between her brother and Helaena as a way to neutralize the rivalry between the Greens and the Blacks. She knew how much her family wanted Aemond dead for his misdeed, but Lucera found him more useful alive. It was underhanded of her and Daemon, but it was better than the alternative.

"I'll give it back to him when he has the balls to approach me." Lucera shrugged, though honestly, she wants to see, or at least hear his reaction when he realizes his life is literally in the palm of her hand.

Chapter Text

Jacaerys entered his parents' room within the royal wing of the castle. He saw his mother who was five months into her pregnancy sitting in her chair beside the fireplace with Daemon standing just behind her. What surprised him was the presence of his younger sister. Her hair was down, and she wore a black lace veil-like mask over her eyes. Her dress a dark blue, almost black, with the inner part of her sleeves made of silk, the color of silver. The edges of her sleeves and collar embroidered with silver thread. She sat in the other chair across from her mother.

"You wished to speak with me mother?" Jacaerys asked as he stood dutifully before his parent and sovereign. As her eldest son and heir, he must be ready to rule after her.

What the eldest son of Princess Rhaenyra didn't expect was what came out of his sister's mouth. "You're getting married to Helaena." It was blunt, no icing on the cake, no beating around the bush, just a quick clean cut of the blade.

Rhaenyra turned to her only daughter with a glare, "We were supposed to tell him gently."

"It's either slice the head clean off or dig the blade very slowly into their stomach. He's gonna find out one way or another." Lucera deadpanned, sounding exhausted as she leaned her head on her fist.

Daemon shook with silent laughter.

"Um, I'm sorry. What?" Jacaerys asked in confusion. All he heard was 'marriage' and 'Helaena'.

Rhaenyra sighed, so much for easing him into it. "The Queen and I have come to an agreement that will...pacify the animosity between the Greens and the Blacks."

Jacaerys gave them a disbelieving, "You expect me to believe the Green Queen would actually do that. She hates me." He said with a deadpanned tone and expression that matched his sister's.

Lucera's right hand went into her left sleeve, "We had to give her...an incentive." She said as she pulled out a piece of jewelry, a broach of a silver dragon curled around a green gem.

Jacaerys immediately recognized that as Aemond's, "How-"

"My spies are quite sneaky little thieves." Daemon answered with a proud smirk, "I initially wanted to use that to torment Alicent, let her know what I can do to her precious son with a single command." He then turned to his stepdaughter with a look of a child whose toy was confiscated. "But then your sister's spies got in the way and brought it to her instead."

"I presented her with a deal, a compromise if you will." Lucera said, her head facing her mother, but her words directed at her brother. "You marry Helaena, no one in this family kills Aemond."

Jacaerys stared at his sister with slight fear. He knew she used underhanded tactics to get what she wants, from acquiring wargs to spy on people, to employing tactful baseborn offspring with special skillset. One of those being his foster brother's half-sister.

"You're not happy with the betrothal?" Rhaenyra asked her son, sensing some discomfort from him. She understood the idea of being married to someone she's not in love with. While Laenor's taste don't align with hers, they were still able to form a loving partnership.

"It's not that. I have no problem with Helaena. She's very sweet and kind. I always thought she'd marry Aegon." Jacaerys said, remembering how Alicent wished to betroth her children to each other, keep their bloodline pure.

"But something bothers you." Rhaenyra stated as she watched her child's expression with an understanding look.

Jacaerys sighed, "Helaena's...eccentric. I don't mind her love for bugs. But she says some weird things that don't make sense."

Lucera huffed through her nose before she raised a hand to beckon her brother closer. "Jace, come here for a second."

Jacaerys walked closer to his sister, missing the way Daemon suppressed a smile and Rhaenyra sighed.

"Give me your ear, this is important." Lucera instructed as she waited for her brother to lower his head to her. When his head got close enough, her hand found his shoulder. "Thank you." Then she slaps him upside the head with enough force to surprise him.

"Hey! What was that for?" Jacaerys exclaimed in surprise as he recoiled from his sister, holding the back of his head. It actually hurt.

"For being an idiot. You should not call Dreamers weird. That would be an insult to the ancestor who brought House Targaryen to these shores in the first place." Lucera scolded him in a displeased tone as she frowned at her brother.

Jacaerys stopped rubbing his head. "'Dreamer?' You mean Helaena's..." He let that question hang in the air.

"That's right. She has the gift of prophecy. Just like the King." Daemon confirmed for his stepson.

"Are you sure?" Jacaerys asked his family.

"I've spent enough time with her. While she does speak in riddles, she can serve as a guide, an extra set of eyes to prepare us for the future." Lucera stated, remembering how her Aunt Helaena would speak of moments that have not happened until the time of occurrence. She's confident enough to say Helaena is a genuine Dreamer.

Jacaerys let out a disbelieving laugh, "Um, correct me if I'm wrong, but when Daenys the Dreamer's father moved their family out of Old Valyria, the Doom didn't happen until twelve years later."

"But it did happen." Rhaenyra stated with a firm look, "Dreamers can't control when these events occur, they can only know that it will happen."

Jacaerys was silent for a moment then opened his mouth, "How do we know if this is what Helaena wants?"

Lucera rubbed her temple in annoyance, "Let's put it this way, between you or Aegon, which option do you think she's more comfortable with? Who would she prefer to be married to?" She gave a deadpanned look to where her brother stood, glaring through the lace mask. After working tirelessly for nearly a decade to bring the Greens to heel, her brother owes her for these efforts.

Jacaerys could hear a silent threat in that expression, 'Marry her, or the laws of my fist will compel your teeth.'

Jacaerys couldn't deny how she makes a strong point. Aegon doesn't even like Helaena. He's too much into wine and women to ever be a good husband. The only woman he seems to get along the most with is Nyma Sand, the Invincible Warlord in Bed. He's seen Aegon limp sometimes after those excursions.

Rhaenyra stood up from her seat and approached her son, "Jace, I know this was not what you expected. People in our position don't always get the privilege to marry for love. But we still learn to make it work, a partnership built on respect and understanding." She laid her hands on his shoulders, giving him a comforting squeeze. "Helaena is a kind and gentle young woman, one who I genuinely believe is worthy of being your consort." She cupped her son's cheek, stroking his cheekbones affectionately. "I know it's a lot to ask. But if you do this, and we can end this war between our faction and theirs."

Jacaerys felt conflicted at the idea of marrying Helaena, she's his aunt, she's a daughter of the Greens, and she's a Dreamer. The last reason feels like a challenge itself. He has no clue how to help someone who sees the future or how to properly interpret their visions. He doesn't hate her, he's just worried about whether he can be a good husband to Helaena.

With a resigned sigh, Jacaerys bowed his head, "When's the wedding?"

Rhaenyra smiled before she pulled her son into a motherly embrace.

With wedding preparations underway, the soon-to-be husband and wife took a stroll through the gardens overlooking the ocean. Jacaerys wore a teal tunic with a red dragon broach on his collar while Helaena's dress was lavender, her silver hair fell down her back in waves and was pinned back by a silver butterfly clip.

"I heard about what happened between you and my brother. I apologize for his behavior." Helaena said, her disappointment clear on her face upon receiving the news of what transpired between her betrothed and Aemond.

"It's not your fault. He's always had it out for me." Jacaerys said as he escorted his wife-to-be. Kingsguard followed behind them at a respectful distance.

"You never did apologize for that Pink Dread." Helaena stated as she remembered how upset her younger brother was that day.

"It was just a joke." Jacaerys said in defense.

"Was he laughing?" Helaena raised an eyebrow.

Jacaerys opened his mouth and closed it. He remembered how Aemond had a look of hope in his eyes when his brother and nephew told him how they found a dragon for him. But upon seeing the pig with straw wings on its back, the boy's face looked sad and broken. Looking back, he could not help but be ashamed of his younger self and how cruel it was of him to pull that prank for the one who feels left out for not having a dragon.

Jacaerys sighed, "No, he wasn't."

Helaena stared at her fiancé's face and saw genuine guilt in his eyes. "Scars aren't always seen. The ones deep within are more painful, especially if it's from someone who is supposed to be family." She stared at the flowers with a distant expression, "For some who created that scar, they feel the poison themselves. It lingers and festers, devouring them slowly. That pain builds to the point where they feel they must lash out to the one who hurt them before." She stopped upon spotting a praying mantis hiding beneath the flowers.

Jacaerys frowned as he listed to Helaena speak. She was always the eccentric type, her words full of riddles as she examines bugs. While sometimes it's hard for him to interpret, he enjoys the sound of her poetic voice. Gentle, soothing, and insightful. A Dreamer. That is what Lucera hinted at. By hint, she actually smacked him really hard upside the head and lectured him for calling a Dreamer 'weird.' She made a point to Jacaerys to be patient and understanding of Helaena when their betrothal was announced.

Lucera's soft spot for Helaena was well known within their family. They became each other's confidants despite being born to different factions. For the Dreamer who is alone within a world of prophecy, and the blind princess trapped in darkness. They were sisters by heart.

Helaena cradled the mantis in her hands as she stood up and marveled at its structure and anatomy. She then began her cryptic speech once more, "One watches, yet cannot see. Drawn to them yet is beyond reach. One in pain; the other in darkness. Distant, yet are bound together." Helaena said, her voice distant and eyes far away.

Jacaerys smiled sadly at his betrothed as he watches her expression become forlorn. Growing up he was told stories about Daenys the Dreamer who prophesized the Doom of Valyria and convinced her father to depart their ancestral land. She saved House Targaryen and brought them to Westeros. Jacaerys was intrigued and fascinated by the idea of seeing the future. But seeing Helaena have her visions many times, he realized how it can be painful for that person. Seeing what could happen, but never knowing when it will happen.

"The Dreams torment you." Jacaerys said as she watched the mantis fly out of her hands and back into the trees.

"I manage. I've had years to get used to it." Helaena said with a sad accepting smile.

"The Gods are cruel to make you suffer them alone." He responded, cursing the Gods for making such a sweet and innocent person see horrific things.

"The visions are not all bad." Helaena assured him, hope brimming in her eyes, "We can't always avoid evil in life, but we can look forward to the good that follows."

Jacaerys could not deny that statement. The years of being called a bastard as though he was a disease urged him to be a better ruler and prove them wrong.

"And I'm not alone. Not anymore." Helaena smiled as she took his hand in hers and looked into his eyes, "I have you, I have Lucera...and we'll have our three children."

Jacaerys blinked multiple times. "Three?" He choked upon hearing those words.

Helena grinned, "Two sons and a daughter. When they come is up to the Gods." Out of all the visions of an uncertain future, her three children are what she holds onto tightly. That beautiful dream of her sweet and happy babies gave her something to look forward to with this marriage.

Jacaerys could not help but release a joyous laugh at the idea of children. Being the eldest brother to one sister, three younger brothers, and two stepsisters, he loves the idea of a large family and how close they were to each other.

Without warning, Helaena was picked up and spun around in a circle. She let out a surprised squeal and a string of laughter as she wrapped her arms around Jacaerys' back.

Jacaerys finally set her back on her feet, the smiles never left either of their faces.

"Thank you." Jacaerys said, his eyes gleaming with joy and hope, "I promise I'll be the best husband you deserve." He swore to her, looking forward to their marriage and the good years that will follow.

Helaena's face brightened up into a blinding smile before she looped her arm back into his and nuzzled against him. "Only a fortnight until the wedding." She said with a suppressed squeal.

Chapter Text

In another part of the castle, secluded and far from prying eyes was a small training area right next to the water. It was bright and open, with the roaring waves hitting the rocks. This is where the youngest son of the King sits as he sits on the balcony staring at the ocean.

Aemond breathed a sigh of relief, this is one of the very few places in the Red Keep where he can find some solace and comfort, far away from the political strife and wedding plans. He learned from his mother that it was Lucera who offered the marriage deal to keep him safe. He was angry and grateful towards Lucera. While the mutual hate between him and Jacaerys is present, he considers him a better choice in a husband compared to Aegon. He knows his nephew will protect her and make her happy. But he was pissed at how easily the Blacks could have killed him at any time and the fear it caused his mother.

Lucera, she had his life in the palm of her hand the entire time but kept him alive to drive his mother into a corner. Aemond smirked a little, he had to give her props for being cunning and manipulative to play the game. Given her position as Mistress of Whispers, she is quite a lethal and dangerous adversary.

Just thinking of her caused a rush of emotions to well up in him. Guilt when that mask reminded him of her blindness, the blood and the screams. He felt a burning passion burn within him remembering how she entered his vision, powerful and dominate, her presence overwhelmed the courtyard. He always thought she was beautiful, even as children his eyes were always drawn to her whenever they were in the same room. He can't understand his complicated emotions when it comes to Lucera. Her very existence seems to overwhelm him even when she's not around him.

He was brought out of his thoughts when he heard the sound of footsteps enter the area but paused at the edge. They must've seen him but are hesitant to approach. From the heaviness of their feet, it must be a child.

Aemond sighed in exasperation, "You can come out, I won't hurt you."

They entered the area slowly until they were at a distance right at the center of the training spot.

Aemond turned around and was mildly surprised by who he saw.

"Prince Joffrey Velaryon."

Little Joffrey looked exactly as his older brother Jacaerys did at the age of ten. Except his hair is more curly and thicker than Jace's. He can see they share the same jaw and nose. But his eyes held an innocence and compassion Aemond is all too familiar with. The same eyes as Lucera.

"I'm sorry for disturbing you. I didn't know other people knew about this place." Joffrey explained, looking nervous as he pursed his lips and looked down shyly.

'Wait, didn't Lucera used to do that too?' Aemond had a sense of DeJa'Vu when he watched the boy. He swore for a moment that it was little Lucera standing there.

Aemond shook his head to rid himself of those thoughts, "You're not disturbing me. I normally come here to get some peace and quiet by the ocean. What about you?"

Joffrey looked down at his training sword, it was built for a boy his size. "I, uh, I come here to practice by myself. I feel better when no one is looking at me or judging my skills." He anxiously explained, blushing in embarrassment.

Aemond raised an eyebrow at the boy.

"Are you...really my Uncle Aemond?" Joffrey asked as he tilted his head to get a better look at him.

Aemond smiled wryly, "That's right. I assume you heard all the horror stories about me."

Joffrey nodded grimly, "I heard enough. Big sister Lucera told me you were best friends and that you were a prodigy with the sword. She said that you'd rival Daemon Targaryen. You rode the largest dragon in the world for one night. Her name's Vhagar. You also blinded Lucera with a rock to the head. Did I miss anything." He listed off the facts he learned from Lucera.

Aemond laughed softly, "To hear such praise from my youngest nephew. How flattering. You must be angry at me."

Joffrey shrugged, "Not really, it's hard to be mad at someone you don't even remember."

"Well, you were only a baby at the time. And I didn't have much interaction with you. But your sister did brag about you a lot, said you were the cutest and would become a great knight one day." Aemond said with a rueful smile on his face as he remembered how excited Lucera was about her baby brother and how she and Jace picked out an egg for little Joff.

Joffrey frowned as he looked at his sword, "Yeah, one day."

Silence fell between the two descendants of House Targaryen.

Joffrey sighed then looked up at his uncle, "I'm not gonna start anything with you since what happened with my sister doesn't really involve me. She hates it when people fight or get angry on her behalf. Says it's annoying."

Aemond breathed out a small laugh, Lucera kept a calm demeanor when he first saw her, but he can sense the hidden anger stirring beneath the surface.

Joffrey held up a hand, "I won't bother you; I'm just going to practice my drills over there. You can go back to relaxing." He said before he walked away to perform his training.

Aemond couldn't really argue as he turned his gaze back to the ocean and closed his eyes in meditation. However, after five minutes of listening to the boy's grunts and blade cutting the air, the older Targaryen turned and felt insulted by what he's currently witnessing.

Joffrey's footwork was sloppy, his stance was crooked, he's not holding the sword steady, and the swings resemble more of a man chopping wood.

Aemond's eye twitched and his face fell into a grimace. 'Yeah, no, this can't go on.'

Joffrey didn't hear Aemond approach until the man spoke in a firm voice, "Freeze."

Joffrey halted all movement in mid-strike, standing still as a statue. Aemond circled the boy just once, his eyes scrutinizing and calculating before he began to adjust his nephew's stance. Neither of them said a word, but the boy could see how displeased Aemond looked as he straightened his back, moved his legs, and fixed the angle of his arms.

Aemond took a step back once he was satisfied before he picked up his own practice sword, long and heavier for a man his size. "Now, watch closely." He instructed before he took the proper battle stance and went through his own drills Ser Criston Cole taught him since he was a lad. He didn't think about his movements, his body went on muscle memory alone.

When he was finished, he glanced at Joffrey who looked enthralled at the fluidity in how he handled his sword. "That's incredible."

Aemond let down his stance as he turned to the boy, "Now you try." At Joffrey's wide eyes, Aemond added, "It doesn't have to be perfect; you just need to improve."

Joffrey shut his mouth and nodded. Taking a deep breath, and exhaling slowly, he mimicked his uncle's stance, keeping his back straight and legs firmly apart with one foot in front of the other. He made the first swing, trying to remember Aemond's movements and copy as best as he could.

Aemond observed the boy mimic the drill he demonstrated. While it's nowhere near his own, he can see from Joffrey's face that the boy is serious about training.

When Joffrey finished, he felt his muscles burning as he shakily kept his sword up. He looked to his uncle for feedback.

Aemond hummed, "While it's not smooth, it's definitely an improvement compared to before."

Joffrey's eyes lit up at Aemond's words.

Aemond was taken aback by the expression within the boy's eyes, they were too similar to Lucera's. He cleared his throat and say, "Again."

For nearly two hours, Aemond instructed Joffrey in swordsmanship. Whenever his nephew looked off balance, Aemond righted him with a gentle tap of his own sword. With each run-through of the drill, Joffrey steadily improved, his face set in determination as he took Aemond's instructions to heart. By the end of the second hour, Joffrey was breathless, and his arms were sore and shaking from the constant swinging.

"Tired?" Aemond asked when he saw how sweaty and exhausted the boy was.

Joffrey lifted his head, "Yeah...and sore."

Aemond nodded, "That's a good sign."

"What?" Joffrey asked as he wiped the sweat off his face.

"Every man has a limit, you just expanded yours. And the pain in your arms means you're building strength. It's when you're tired that you start to progress." Aemond explained, remembering his teacher's words whenever Aemond was about to collapse.

Joffrey took a second to register his meaning then smiled, "Is that how you got to the level you are at?"

Aemond smiled slightly, "After ten years training under a powerful knight, you learn to adapt your body to certain challenges."

Joffrey glanced at the position of the sun, "Oh, Seven Hells, I gotta go now." He cursed to himself before he stumbled away from the training area, his legs burned to fuck and back.

He glanced at his uncle when he reached the edge, "Will you be here tomorrow?"

"Excuse me?"

Joffrey clarified, "For training."

That request took Aemond by surprise, "Now hold on now, that's only a one-time thing. I'm not interested."

"Then why bother training me?"

Aemond deadpanned, "Because the way you were swinging the sword felt like an insult to our ancestors. If you're going to fall on your ass in a fight, you might as well do so with some dignity."

Truthfully, Aemond had no idea what compelled him to teach the boy over the last two hours. Maybe it was because his nephew didn't show any outward hostility towards him. It could be because Aemond felt no animosity towards the boy. Or rather, because he sees a striking resemblance to how Lucera used to be when she sets her mind to something. That determination and drive to better herself, Joffrey carries that same spark.

"I'll take that as advice since you're such a good teacher." Joffrey stated with a smirk.

Aemond responded, "Compliments will get you nowhere."

Joffrey shrugged, "Maybe not, but they still help. So, same time tomorrow?"

Just as Aemond was about to turn the kid down, Joffrey quickly added, "Great, I'll meet you right back here. Thanks!" He then took off as fast as his sore legs could carry him.

Joffrey's sudden action took Aemond by surprise before he yelled after the boy, "Hey! I never agreed to train you!"

"Sorry, I can't hear you!" Joffrey yelled back, laughing as he retreated from the ocean.

Aemond let out a long sigh as he face-palmed, "What have I done?"

Unknown to Aemond, a seagull perched on the rocks observed the two sons of House Targaryen.

In the tower of the Mistress of Whispers, Lucera was laughing as Sara Snow reported what she witnessed through her warging abilities.

The princess sat in her chair, leaning her cheek on her fist as she listened to her friend describe the scene. She had a mirthful smile grace her full lips as she imagined her little brother basically ordering their exasperated uncle to train him.

Sara waited until Lucera finally calmed down from laughing. Honestly, she's more worried than amused by this development. "What shall we do Princess?"

Lucera hummed, her finger tapping on the dragon head of her cane before her smile widened, "Leave them be for now."

Sara's eyes widened, "But...Prince Joffrey may be in danger."

"Joffrey has always been softspoken and has never found the courage to come out of his shell. Yet one afternoon with his Uncle Aemond and he is able to find his footing. You said they were smiling." Lucera stated, her posture relaxed.

"Yes Princess. Neither of them looks as though they want to kill each other. The seem rather comfortable. Disturbingly enough." Sara commented to herself, still in shock by this new development.

"That's good to hear. Joffrey has always been a gentle soul. I'm glad he wasn't infected by this hostility between the factions. This will be a good distraction for both of them." Lucera softly said as she smiled fondly at the thought of her one of her baby brothers.

"Should we inform your mother?" Sara asked, her folded hands hidden within her sleeves.

Lucera frowned as she thought about that before she sighed, "No, for now, we keep this quiet."

"Is that wise?"

Lucera was silent for a moment then answered, "Mother is in the late stages of her pregnancy whilst managing a kingdom and planning the royal wedding. We can't add anymore worries onto her plate."

Sara bowed her head, "Understood Princess."

Lucera sensed Sara's tension, "I know you don't trust him. But I believe he can help us if given the opportunity. He won't even know he's helping us."

"How?"

Lucera gave her friend a mysterious smile, "Only time will tell."

Chapter Text

As the days drew closer to Helaena's wedding, Aemond had an internal battle of whether he should see his father. From how his mother and siblings described his current state, both physical and mental, he can't help but wonder of the man will even recognize or even remember his youngest son. It was during one of his training sessions with Joffrey did his mind change. His nephew actually convinced him to see the withering King one last time. How the boy of ten accomplished this still boggles Aemond's mind.

Aemond and Joffrey stand outside the King's chambers, both were tense even as they try to maintain a strong front.

"Nervous?" Joffrey asked his uncle.

"Hardly. You?" Aemond responded as he glanced at the boy.

"No, I like spending him, he's not judgmental when I talk to him." Joffrey told him as the Kingsguard open the doors and allowed them entry.

The first thing that Aemond registered was the smell of decaying flesh, burning incense, and herbal medicines. He flinched back slightly at the stench but endured it as he stepped further into the chamber. He glanced around and saw the scale model of the Old Valyria. Though dust and cobwebs cover the ancient city, it was still well-crafted and beautiful. He looks towards where the King slept and heard his sister Helaena singing a soft and gentle tune.

Pushing aside the curtain with Joffrey beside him, he gasps softly at the sight of the man who was once his father. The last time he saw him, the man only had one hand, and his face was filled with sadness and disappointment for the atrocities that happened at Driftmark. Now he resembles a poorly bandaged corpse barely clinging to life as he takes raspy breathes that sound so painful.

Helaena stops singing as she looks up from her insect embroidery. She gives her brother and nephew a sad smile.

Joffrey approaches his aunt and gives her a hug, "Hello Aunt Helaena."

Helaena returns the hug, rubbing his back as she looks up at Aemond who hesitates to come closer to their father. She holds her nephew close and takes Viserys' withered hand, "Father, there is someone who wants to meet you." She gently tells the King who opens his one remaining eye.

"Who...goes there?" Viserys rasped out as he stares at Aemond who stood just behind the veil, "Daemon?"

Aemond swallowed and slowly came closer to the man who remains abed. "No father, it's me, Aemond Targaryen, your younger son." He introduced himself as he stood beside his sister and nephew.

Viserys smiles weakly as he looks upon the boy who had become a man. "Aemond...How you've grown..." He laughs weakly, "...You look so much like Daemon...He's always so full of life, seeking adventure..."

Aemond swallows and looks down, unable to meet his father's gaze, "I'm sorry for not being home." That last word left a bitter taste in his mouth as he can only remember the shame and ridicule for not having a dragon of his own.

"No... Don't apologize... It was your mother's decision... She only wanted to protect you..." Viserys wheezed, "...Despite what happened...I never wanted you to die within these walls."

Aemond felt touched, but only slightly as he can hardly remember a moment where Viserys spent time with any of his children aside from Rhaenyra.

Joffrey watches as Helaena holds him to her person while rubbing his shoulder in comfort.

"Joffrey...he tells me you...have been teaching him..."

Aemond nodded, "I have, he's a good student."

Viserys smiles weakly, "You've always...been quite a warrior...Ever since you...first picked up the sword...I knew you'd make a fine swordsman...Just like my father...Baelon the Brave." A tear streamed down his face as he remembered his father. "He'd have liked you very much."

Aemond felt a swell of pride at this praise. He read up on the greatest warriors in their family bloodline. He read all about his grandfather Baelon, how he was Vhagar's rider before Laena Velaryon, how he was Hand of the King when he was Jaehaerys' heir before his untimely death from a burst belly.

Viserys' gaze shifted between his son to his daughter. "Aemond, there is something...I request from you." At Aemond's nod, the King made his request, "Could you escort Helaena on her wedding day?" This caught his children and grandson by surprise. "I want her day to be special...she should not have to drag... behind a corpse to her husband-to-be."

The request stunned them as Aemond gave him a questioning look. "Not that I have much objection, but why me? Why not Mother?"

Viserys smiled weakly, "Because...you are the closest to her...You are who she trusts...I want to see her happy at her wedding."

Helaena knew their father is already having a difficult time moving. To push him to escort his younger daughter down the aisle would be too much for the dying man. "Thank you, Father."

Aemond bowed his head, not finding it in him to refuse, "For Helaena's sake, I will do as you request...Father."

Viserys rasps out a relieved laugh, "Thank you Aemond."

Joffrey then spoke for the first time since entering the King's chambers, "Tell Grandfather that story about one of your adventures with Ser Criston Cole while you were at Old Town." He excitedly requested from his uncle.

Viserys nodded slowly in agreement, "I'd love to hear about it."

Aemond smiled slightly before he got comfortable in the chair he pulled forward and began to regale his father, sister and nephew of one of his adventures back in Old Town.

Outside the King's chamber, Princess Lucera smiled as she listened to everything before she walked away with Sara and Eva. The latter of which carried an ornate box with Helaena's wedding gift.

"Are you sure?" Alicent asked as her step-granddaughter stood before her, Rhaenyra and Daemon. They were currently in the Small Council chamber discussing the wedding and the reception that will take place soon after.

Lucera stood there with her ladies-in-waiting behind her and her hands folded over her cane. She wore a different veil-like mask over her eyes, black lace with a rose design and one black and red flower pinned at the side of her head. Her dress is the traditional black and red, with wide open sleeves and laces in the front.

"Yes, I overheard them while I was outside. I didn't want to disturb them seeing how this may very well be the last time Aemond will see his father." Lucera said, being courteous as she sensed the quiet yet sharp intake from her mother when she mentioned his name.

Alicent nodded her thanks, "That is very kind of you Princess Lucera. Is this really what King Viserys wants for his daughter?"

Rhaenyra sighs sadly at the thought of her father. "Given his current state, it'll be a miracle just to move him in a wheelchair. Aemond should have that honor in His Grace's stead." She said as she rubbed her belly out of habit.

Daemon rubbed her shoulder comfortingly and glanced at the box Sara was holding, "What's that you got there?"

Lucera glanced to her right where Sara stood and held her hand out to take the parcel.

"A wedding gift for Princess Helaena. I wanted to give it to her when I learned she was with His Grace." She glances in Alicent's direction, "But I believe this is something a mother should give their daughter."

This caught Alicent by surprise before the Queen walked towards the Mistress of Whispers who held the box out for her. Carefully taking the gift from her step-granddaughter, she opened it and gasped in wonder at what she saw inside.

Gently closing it, she smiled at Lucera in gratitude, "Thank you. This is beautiful, she's gonna love it."

Though Lucera could not see the woman's smile, she could hear it within her voice. "For my kind and beautiful sister." Lucera said with fondness for her ever gentle and sweet aunt.

Chapter Text

Alicent sat in her private chambers, her delicate fingers stroking the smooth wood of the lid. A small rueful smile played on her lips as she thought of the kind gesture Lucera offered her.

Even though she was illegitimate, Alicent never held that particular girl in contempt for her mother's infidelity. She has always been kind and sweet, a constant companion to her precious Helaena who is often alone with her strange mutterings and insects. She even protected her younger son from Aegon and Jacaerys' bullying for not having a dragon in their family. It came to the point where Aegon went to Alicent and began to complain about the stench in his room. She never missed the way Aemond and Lucera stifled their laughter during dinner with the whole family.

Alicent genuinely liked her step-granddaughter and saw how close Aemond and Lucera were to each other as children. On various occasions, she'd invite the girl to have tea with her and Helaena. She hoped that by building a relationship with her, Rhaenyra would be open to the idea of betrothing their children to each other. With marrying Aegon to Helaena, and Aemond to Lucera, she hoped that one child from each union would marry each other. Keep the Targaryen bloodline pure and Rhaenyra from ascending the throne to hurt her children.

That horrific night at Driftmark destroyed any hope she had for her children's survival, Aemond's especially. Every day since Lucera woke up in darkness, Alicent feared for each of her children and urged Aegon that the throne is his birthright as he is the King's eldest son. But nothing went as planned, Aegon rebelled and blatantly refused to marry Helaena who mutually agreed. One son pushing back, the other son so far away, and a daughter who is beyond her reach even when she is close to her. Alicent was on the verge of despair, more so when Rhaenyra returned with her family and began to seize control in the Red Keep.

However, Rhaenyra never attacked her children, they generally avoided each other as best as they could. With Rhaenyra slowly gathering her allies in the North, the Vale and the Stormlands, Lucera was gathering her own little army in the form of illegitimate daughters. One of which is Aegon's paramour. Larys Strong died in a dog attack, which lost the Queen her personal yet creepy foot fetishistic spy master. Afterward, Lucera ascended as the Mistress of Whispers, possessing an uncanny ear to root out secrets and information.

When Lucera wasn't on the prowl for secrets, she would spend her spare time with Helaena as she normally did before losing her sight. Helaena, ever the gentle soul, stayed close to her niece, guiding her through the dark and speaking her riddles that only Lucera can understand. Seeing those precious moments reminded her of when things weren't hanging on the precipice.

Then came that day when Lucera offered her a deal.

Alicent was surprised by the sudden invitation for tea with Princess Lucera. When she arrived at the table surrounded in Aegon's Garden, she saw Lucera standing calmly, her hands folded over the dragon's head of her cane. A black lace  mask  with vine-like design covered her eyes and a matching black and blue form-fitting dress enhanced the girl's mystical beauty.

"Queen Alicent, I'm glad you came." Lucera greeted in a calm and pleasant tone that betrayed none of her emotions.

Alicent maintained an elegant front as she responded, "Thank you for the invitation."

The Queen and Princess sat across from each other with a myriad of sweets and tea between them.

As the servants poured the tea, Alicent decided to speak, "This is a rare occasion, one that has not been seen in so long."

"Apologies for the abrupt invitation, after everything that has happened, I wanted to talk to you about something of grave importance." Lucera said, staring ahead of her with her blind gaze as she took a small sip of her tea.

Alicent did not like the sound of that, "Did something happen?"

Lucera gently set her teacup down. "How has Aemond fared in Old Town?"

Alicent tensed up, Lucera enquiring about Aemond is never good, especially among the Black faction.

"He is well, he trains arduously under Ser Criston's tutelage." Alicent answered, keeping any trace of fear out of her voice.

"That's good, he's always been gifted with a sword." Lucera said in a calm voice before she sighed, "Recent developments have come up. One I feel has...intruded on one of my policies."

"What is it?" Alicent asked, worry and fear welling up in the pit of her stomach.

Lucera silently reaches into her sleeve and held up a familiar dragon broach with a green gem.

Alicent felt her heart stop cold in its tracks as she stared at the small yet precious jewel in Lucera's hand.

"Where did you get that?" Alicent asked, shaking as memories of her beloved son sprang forth. His tormented face and eyes filled with deep shame on the morning of Lucera's awakening.

"One of Daemon's spies procured it from Old Town. When and how they succeeded remains to be seen." Lucera spoke with reserved calm and suppressed exasperation, "Thankfully my spies got this to me before they could deliver it to my stepfather. They also assured me that Aemond is alive and well." She said as she placed the broach back in her sleeve.

Though the news should have reassured the Queen, the fact that Daemon, Rhaenyra's husband and Prince Consort got close to her baby boy sent a chill down her spine.

"Mother has no clue about our little meeting. When I was informed of what my stepfather was attempting, I knew this was edging too close to the line that should never be crossed." Lucera sighed tiredly as she traced the details of her cane's head, "I requested your presence because I want to end this conflict once and for all."

Alicent breathes deeply as she nervously picked at her nails, a habit she has never outgrown since childhood. "How? After what happened to you, your mother will do anything to kill my son." She stated, knowing that any mention, even the smallest whisper causes Rhaenyra anger.

"A compromise, one that benefits both sides and neutralizes the conflict between our factions for good." Lucera began as she kept her veiled gaze on the Queen, "Many years ago, my mother put forth a betrothal offer between Helaena and Jacaerys. That offer is still on the table."

This surprised Alicent, she can't possibly have her only daughter wed Rhaenyra's bastard, not when she is to become Aegon's Queen.

"I know what you intend for your son and daughter. Helaena blatantly expressed her refusal on the matter to me many times. As did Aegon...well not to me at least." Lucera muttered to herself in vague discomfort as she remembered how Nyma described how vocal Aegon was in his displeasure on marrying Helaena during their nightly excursions.

Alicent kept her composure at the mention of Aegon's philandering, especially to the Dornish bastard under Lucera's employ who seems just as disturbed at the notion but tolerated it.

"How does marrying my daughter to your brother protect Aemond?" Alicent questioned as she reigns in her annoyance towards her eldest.

"Simple, by a ccepting it, my mother will not to put Aemond's head on a spike. " Lucera explained as she taps her index finger on her cane's head. "Helaena will be Queen and Hightower blood will inherit the throne, just not through the King you wanted. That which has been divided will become one. You give up in your endeavor, so too will Princess Rhaenyra."

"How can I trust your mother to keep her word?" Alicent asked, unwilling to trust the woman she once loved as her dearest friend, not since she lied about the brothel incident.

"I will get her to see reason. Regardless of what happened in the past, the future of House Targaryen will hang in the balance the second King Viserys dies. You and I both know that the moment he draws his last breath, the factions will tear the nation apart to put their heir on the Iron Throne. Believe me, no one is going to win this hopeless battle." Lucera said in a calm yet strong voice, "The only way to prevent that war is to stop it before it begins, and the only we can ensure our survival is through marriage. I will not have this pointless infighting and animosity carry on through my brothers' or their children."

Silence followed the Mistress of Whispers speech; she sounded tired and outright annoyed by this feud. If Alicent is being honest with herself, she is tired as well, the anger, the worry, always looking over her shoulder and anticipating someone to slit her children's throats. Though she wants Aegon to become King to protect him and his siblings, this may be the only way she can save Aemond from Rhaenyra's vengeful hand.

Alicent takes a deep breath to center herself before she speaks again, "Can you guarantee Aemond's protection from your mother?"

"I swear it." Lucera vowed, "In spite of how you think of her, she is no kinslayer, and I won't let it come to pass."

They met with Rhaenyra who was accompanied by Daemon in Lucera's tower of Whispers where they sat at the table. Rhaenyra had to slowly sit down due to her pregnancy with Daemon's help. Her mother and stepfather sat on one side while Alicent sat across from them on the other. Lucera situated herself between the leaders of the factions as the mediator.

"Thank you for coming Mother and Stepfather." Lucera greeted her parents as Alicent kept her guard up.

"What is this about?" Rhaenyra asked as she rubbed her belly tenderly.

"Her Majesty wishes to speak to you about that marriage proposal years ago." Lucera announced, shocking her parents.

Rhaenyra gave her former best friend a distrustful look, "Why now?"

Lucera wordlessly placed the green dragon broach onto the table for all to see. Her parents gave the broach then her a questioning look.

"Daemon's spies took this from Aemond's quarters in Old Town. You're threatening the Queen's youngest child." Lucera stated as she glared at where her stepfather sat.

Alicent glared at the Prince while Daemon gave Lucera an exasperated look, "After what he did to you?"

Lucera slammed her cane down, causing an echo in the chamber. "Never mind what happened before, I don't care about that anymore." Lucera vehemently said as she glared at everyone at the table as though they were her younger brothers throwing food at each other. "This has gone on long enough, I don't care which one of you started it, I'm ending it right here before my brothers and their children have to clean up after you!" At this point, her annoyance reached its peak after years of tolerating their stupidity over inheritance.

Daemon swore he saw his grandmother Queen Alysanne just now with the way she spoke to them as though they were misbehaving children.

Though Rhaenyra was appalled by how her daughter spoke to her, she could not deny how fierce she looked right now. Lucera carries much dragon blood in her despite lacking Targaryen features. What she said about her brothers having to deal with their parents' problems struck a chord with Rhaenyra. She always worried about her children, more so after the incident at Driftmark. She never wanted to pass on her generation's troubles onto any of them. Yet Lucera spoke unyielding like the princess she is, always protective of her brothers.

Lucera sighed tiredly and shook her head, "Earlier, I met with Queen Alicent and discussed this matter with her. She's agreed to the marriage, but..." She gave her parents a pointed look, "...neither of you, nor anyone in our family are to kill Aemond. Not by your hands or any hand you command."

Rhaenyra turned to Alicent and saw the way she tensed up at the mention of Aemond. "You'll sanction the match between our children?"

Alicent did not look happy as she nodded, "Yes. All I ask, is that you don't punish my son for his...mistake." Her eyes glanced at Lucera who hardly looked phased.

Rhaenyra glared at the Green leader, "That was hardly a 'mistake' you hypocritical-"

"Mother!" Lucera sternly stopped her tirade, "What's done is done. Killing him won't change what happened. It won't bring back my sight. As I am the only one in this room who sees clearly, I ask that you both put the past behind you and think about your children's future and that of Westeros." Lucera sighed again as she turned to where her mother sat closest to her, "Will you honor your word as Heir to the Iron Throne and leave Aemond alone?"

Rhaenyra takes a deep breath then faced Alicent again. A frown etched itself onto her face before she spoke, "I can't forgive your son for what he did."

"That's understandable." Alicent responded with a bow of her head, knowing she herself would feel the same way if her children were in that position.

"However, seeing how you are willing to agree to the match, I will seize any attempts to kill Aemond." She turns to her husband and sternly adds, "As will Daemon."

"Why?"

"This is an order from your future Queen. You will not make any attempt on Aemond's life." Rhaenyra ordered, knowing her Rogue Prince of a husband needs a short leash in case he goes back on his word.

Daemon looked like he wanted to refuse, then sighed in disappointment, "As my wife commands it."

Though Lucera has some doubts in his sincerity, she'll accept it for the moment.

"Good. Then we're all in agreement here." Lucera stated as her index finger tapped on her cane out of habit.

"Yes, we shall inform our children of the news. We'll figure out the date for the wedding afterwards. Together." Rhaenyra added, knowing this cannot be avoided as this is their children that are to be married.

Alicent nodded, "Of course."

Rhaenyra and Daemon stood up and left the room.

Alicent and Lucera released sighs of exhaustion and relief.

The Green Queen turned to Lucera with gratitude in her eyes, "Thank you Lucera."

Lucera lets out a breath, "Thank me after Helaena and Jacaerys have children."

It's thanks to Lucera that Aemond is safe, that all of her children are protected. Though Aegon won't become King, she already made peace with the inevitability of Helaena and Jacaerys furthering the family line. What worried her however is the meeting between Aemond and Lucera. Even though Lucera claims she doesn't care about what happened, her son still carries a great deal of guilt over his actions. Despite their opposing factions, Alicent considers Lucera her ally in the Red Keep after the lengths she has gone to ensure Aemond's protection.

A servant entered her quarters with a tray of food. After the King's health took a turn for the worst, she was granted her own private quarters, which was a nice reprieve after nights of pleasureless company with the man whispering the name of his first wife in his sleep. While she doesn't hate her husband, she can't love him either. Even before Driftmark, before his deteriorating health, there was nothing romantic between them. For him it was duty and necessity, for her there was no choice, only survival.

She sat there eating alone as she contemplated her family's future. Once her husband dies, she will no longer be Queen. Rhaenyra will ascend and she will most likely dismiss the soon-to-be former Queen from King's Landing. Helaena will be safe, her status as Princess Consort to Rhaenyra's heir will ensure her well-being. Her sons, however, well their futures are still murky at best. Aegon has no wish for responsibility or to be a ruler, so the chances of him remaining in the Red Keep for very long remains to be seen. Aemond will most likely leave the Capital of his own will, just so he won't be a reminder of Lucera's condition.

Looking around her chambers, she saw just how empty it feels. Even though the Red Keep is grand, it never gave her the happiness she wanted, nor that safety that comes with it. She can hardly remember Old Town. Was it ever a home to her? Will the Hightowers welcome her back after failing to put her son on the throne? The only time she ever truly felt at home was when her mother was alive and when Rhaenyra was her best friend. How she misses those days when they were children, when they weren't fighting over the throne.

She paused in eating when she saw a piece of paper peeking under her plate. She carefully pulled it out and unfolded it. Her hazel-green eyes widen in fear at the message inside.