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beautifulsnake2162020 · 1 year

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Higher Intervention: Aemond x FemReader (House of the Dragon x Sandman fanfic) Part 4

Disclaimer: This is a fanwork to show appreciation for the intellectual properties used. I also haven't read Fire and Blood and most if not all that I know is from the TV show.

Premise: Alys Velaryon, older twin sister of Jace Velaryon is the only member among Rhaenyra's children whom Aemond cannot completely hate. As their love story progresses, a newer and larger threat complicates things and reveals discoveries that neither the greens or the blacks had ever imagined.

AN: Okay so this will be my last writing post for awhile till after December 17. Please wish me luck for my final exams.

If you wish to read the previous parts it's here:

Part 1:

Part 2:

Part 3:

Taglist (comment down below if you want to be included): @winxschester @memento-mora

Also tagging:

@lady-phasma @aemonds-war-crime @adderess because some of their ideas of Aemond have undoubtedly influenced my work.

You weren't sure till now what really differentiated a minor ball from a major celebration ball. Maybe it was because this is your first ball you've attended as a woman. You were dressed in another one of your grandmother's embroidered violet gowns that was changed to your measurements. Your hair was in a half bun and was securely in place thanks to many smaller hairpins. Your sole accessory was a gold necklace that sat just above your collar bone with a tulip pendant.

"Tell me Lord Baratheon."

"Princess Alys, I insist that you call me Raymont. We are both young after all." He wasn't wrong, the age difference between the two of you was only three years with him being older. But that didn't mean you were necessarily compatible personality wise. For one thing he almost stepped on your feet just then and luckily you had quickly went out of his way without compromising the dance.

"Lord Raymont, I am curious about what you may think may be a possible solution to the crisis that may erupt once the King dies."

"I will be honest Princess, I'm not sure if there is a long lasting solution."

"Oh surely you must have some thoughts."

"Well if you really must know, I think once the King dies your mother and your uncle will just order each other dead and we're all just waiting to see who surivives it. Ultimately it's sadly not up to us to decide who wears the crown as long as there is someone in charge." He spins you around almost too suddenly that you almost fell on his chest had you not been agile enough to regain your balance right away.

"Then may I ask why did you volunteer to become my suitor?"

"My mother wanted us to be the ones responsible for your safety. Since there will most likely be a war and you are so far the only neutral party, it will allow us to provide you with shelter and safety away from the chaos."

"Let me guess, in exchange for my safety during the conflict, you want me to exercise influence on whomever comes into power once the upcoming civil war has concluded."

"Of course, we have seen how much influence you wield in your days at court so far. We have no doubts you could do the same for the next ruler." The dance has ended, and you were thankful that Borros Baratheon's young brother readily gave you the information you needed during the course of the dance. Your Lannister suitor was less open until a few goblets of wine had him opening up to the same if not similar answers. You are yet to decide if being a rather popular marriage choice was a good thing or a bad thing.

In your periphery you spot Clement Celtigar talking with your parents as they were in the "black" area of the room alongside with other Velaryons and the Arryns.

"Enjoying the party so far?"

"Oh Aegon, you startled me." He laughs as he quickly downs a goblet of the wine served and gives it to a servant passing by.

"I was just waiting for you to finish your dance with the younger Baratheon brother. You've been pretty elusive from me dear niece, and I plan to rectify that. Let's have the next dance together."

"Actually I was planning on eating and resting my feet. Maybe you could direct us to a spot that's less crowded? Raymont Baratheon was a ... unique dancer."

"Hahaha very well. Just stay by my side niece." You take his arm as he leads you to a spot in the "greens" area that allowed only for two people.

"I'm starting to regret that we aren't the ones married. Had I known back then what I had known now, I think things would have turned out very differently."

"Oh? And what made you think that we would have been a better pair?'

"For one thing, maybe I would be more willing with someone to incentivize me to study." Two servants pulling out the chairs and await the two of you to settle into it. Another servant quickly serves you two a pie containing three different pieces of poultry inside it. You forgot the fancy word for it but you remember it by it's common name - a turducken pie. You were given a slice by the same servant who served it to both you and Aegon. Your goblet was filled with your much preferred apple juice, while Aegon's goblet was filled with wine, this time the wine was clear or "white" as they say.

"I'll be honest Aegon, I don't think you would have enjoyed studying even if I were your wife."

"Oh? And what would you think I would've been better in?"

"Hmm let's see, I actually wouldn't mind your partying as much as I thought." This caught his attention as feeds himself the turducken pie.

"Really?"

"Yes." You give him a smile before taking a drink from your goblet.

"My mother and my siblings detest that about me. Why won't it bother you?"

"Aegon even you have your own strengths. It's just that for you those strengths are more social rather than academic. From what I hear you could definitely be the life of the party sometimes."

"And what use would my preference for parties and wine benefit you as Queen had we been married? I already know that you would be the one mainly in charge of the realm, and do all of these politicking shit, but it's the first time I heard of my indulgences as a strength."

"Plenty actually. Tell me Aegon are people more willing to share things in this stuffy obviously political ball or in a real wild party in the streets or in some tavern?" His eyes begin to light up as he begins seeing your point.

"I see."

"If given the right training by a spy master, many people wouldn't mind sharing their secrets to you since we both don't like the politicking we are forced to do. You have the privilege of ignoring it entirely while I have to do it just to make sure I live long enough to be a crone."

His eyes roam around your form for awhile.

"I bet even in the form of a crone you would still be desireable."

"Let's not delude ourselves Aegon. One day even my alleged beauty will one day fade into obscurity and by then you will have more than tired of me."

"If you were my Queen, I wouldn't mind any affairs you would have." This made you raise an eyebrow at him.

"And what brought this up?"

"This whole dispute - it's mainly because your mother had an affair with a member of the Strong family. Don't worry I'm not one to rub salt on very obvious wounds. But frankly I'm bored and tired of it. We both know that I don't want to rule and Aemond is better for the job. Had we been married I would've found a way to ignore the fact that our children are most likely Aemond's rather than mine." This startled you. Is he perhaps referring to the rumors at court that maybe he wasn't the father of Helaena's children? That Aemond possibly may have been the father all along?

"Oh don't act so surprised. I'm not blind to the fact that around here everyone prefers Aemond over me. Even you spend the most time with him out of everyone in this side. For all his intelligence I'm surprised he hasn't found a loophole that would make him be King instead of me. But it seems the only possible way for that to happen is if I sneak away to Essos or commit suicide."

"Is this why you wanted to speak with me alone? Away from the prying ears of everyone else?" He nods as he refills his goblet once again.

"I hear you are seeking a peaceful solution to whatever this is. If you can remove me without killing me from becoming King then I will be forever greatful to you."

"But your mo-"

"My mother doesn't love me Alys. Surely that should be obvious by now. The only reason why I'm still here is because she has connections that prevent me from escaping to Essos. But it's obvious that neither she, my father the King, or even my grandfather the hand - cares about me beyond being their piece in their court games."

The herald suddenly calls everyone to attention.

"Odd, everyone in the guestlist has already arrived. Or so that's what the chief servant told me."

"Well the more the merrier. This will definitely make my mother and my grandfather worried. The meticulous thinkers they are."

The trumpets were sounded. This means that it must be either another diplomat or representative who has chosen to make a late appearance. Ensuring that all if not most of the important houses were already in the ball.

"Announcing his royal majesty, Qoren Martell of Dorne."

"Fuck" You hear Aegon say as he puts his head into his hands before downing another goblet full of wine.

You move to stand as you make your way to have a look at the prince you've only ever heard of.

He was definitely handsome, head full of curly hair, lean in built and though he seemed to be of average height, his confidence in every step made him all the more larger.

"King Viserys."

"Prince Qoren, no one was expecting you. You are of course welcomed here."

He chuckles, though his stance was relaxed.

"It is alright your majesty. If anyone was expecting us then what use would our surprise be? Hehehe. I hope you don't mind if my delegation and I join in on the festivities."

"Well at least this is going to be interesting." Aegon says, as he walks beside you albeit less stable than before.

"Maybe I could secretly negotiate with them to abduct me."

"Based from what I've been told about him he doesn't want anything to do with us or the Seven Kingdoms. I'm more confused as to why he is here." As the dance resumes, you see Qoren Martell making his way to your parents and dining with them.

Just as you are about to enter into the black's side of the room you feel someone grab your wrist.

"I don't know how but it seems you might just get the match you wanted all along." You look up at Aemond's face whom did not bother hiding his disdain.

"I thought you said that he wants nothing to do with dragons?"

"He's not, but it seems your neutrality and your lack of one are the very things that have attracted him to you in the first place."

"No - there must be something else, something hidden that we do not yet know of. From what I've heard of Qoren he doesn't want Dorne involved with the Seven Kingdoms. I don't think he's talking with my parents about a marriage alliance with him."

"Oh it's definitely a marriage alliance. It may or may not be with him, but a marriage alliance is the topic of what they are talking about."

You hear the musicians begin the opening notes to the next dance and it just occurred to you that Aemond has not let go of your hand.

"May I have this dance?"

"Of course." Never letting go he leads you to the dance area as some of the other courtiers begin to gather with their respective dance partners.

"It just occurred to me that this will be our first dance since we were children."

"Hahaha well let's see if you could still keep up with me."

"Shouldn't I be telling you that?" You give him a teasing grin as the two of you get into position. In your periphery you notice both Aegon and both sets of your siblings noticing who you were with. Both were too far for you to see their exact expressions. But given that they even noticed who you were with, Aemond must be trying to send a message to all of them. What that message is - you have yet to find out.

The dance begins with the women slowly twirling around their men. You take Aemond's hand as he now follows your momentum as he twirls you under his arm.

"What were you discussing with my brother?"

"For someone observant you seem to ask plenty of questions that may have been obvious to you."

"You know me, I like to be sure of what I've observed."

The music begins to slowly add a few more beats, a bit faster but not fast enough to allow spontaneity.

"I would prefer to hear what guesses you have with what we were discussing. So far it has simply been me giving you the answers. I wouldn't want to let your skills in observation go to waste."

He makes a twirl to go behind you before he once again twirls you underneath his arm.

"Alright since you insist." He whispers in your ear as he leads you in his arms. Safe yet really confident as he guides you through the other dance partners nearby. Some of whom have decided to dance more advance variations. A lot of it in bad taste since there wasn't enough room for such movements.

"From what I could tell he's telling you of his support for your research endeavors. No doubt Helaena has told him of it since you've visited her yesterday. He's desperate to not be made king and be the political pawn of my elders. He has appealed to your mutual dislike of politiciking."

He quickly moves in the way and placing you in his previous place. He bent slightly towards you as you realized two sets of enthusiastic dance partners had almost accidentally hit both you and him and his quick thinking spared both of you from that fate. You couldn't help but giggle a bit as they hit each other instead while you and Aemond were well out of their way.

"Well, did I get it right?"

You spot an incoming dancer from his blindside and guide him the other way. He picks up quickly and turns the two of you to another area. Using the momentum from that turn he pulls you in closer by grabbing your waist from behind.

"I would say so. Otherwise I wouldn't rely on your observations and just simply tell you. He opened with wondering what may have happened had your mother not rejected the marriage alliance with me."

"Mmmhmm and no doubt his self-pity of not wanting to be the puppet was able to get you to talk with him."

"Perhaps - and maybe I'm just an outsider but from what we've discussed it seems the two of you agree on some important things. He doesn't want to be next to rule and has no interest in staying in this type of environment. There is no question that you would be the better choice if it were up to the two of you."

"If only."

"He does raise a good point though."

"What?"

"That it's startling for someone as hardworking and ambitious as you to have not found a solution by now that benefits both of you. But I have my own guess about that."

You untangle from him now that the space around both of you isn't so suffocating as you continue to dance around each other.

"You either haven't found a solution and have decided to use him as a puppet as well despite your individual desires. But knowing you this is highly unlikely."

"What's the other guess?"

"That you have found a solution that could benefit not just both of you but the entire realm. Your problem is that there are many obstacles that you face in actually doing it. Or there is something or someone else stopping you. Perhaps the love of your mother since Aegon is her main piece to put on the throne and for her to influence affairs through him."

"Don't talk about my mother that way."

"You're proving my point."

"Tsch and you think your mother is so innocent?"

"I am more than aware that she isn't. But I don't let my love for her blind or hinder me to what is possible."

"You say that now as you revel in your neutrality."

"I became neutral because I'm doing my best to find a solution actively. But then again you already knew this."

He nods at you as you spend the rest of the dance in semi-comfortable silence. You two didn't need words that this is more of a mutual compromise rather than either of you conceeding to your debate. It was in your periphery as the two of you continue to dance that other dancers have now retreated to the sides and now it seems you and Aemond were the only ones dancing, yet the music hasn't stopped yet.

Never leaving his gaze for too long the two of you move along with the music and each other. You weren't sure if it's because of how your discussion has ended, or if it's just because now you are aware of how the two of you are well matched for this dance. But this newfound tension with a mix of underlying passion - probably from your discussion - was now evident and only made your movements with each other line up even more.

The music begins to slow as the two of you make one final twirl around each other. Some other pairs would grab each other's waist, raise their right hands and have them touch within the final turn. A part of you want to, but it didn't feel right. There was an invisible barrier still between the two of you that you both feel. Perhaps just as equally as your movements just seem to match each other.

You both use the momentum to go your separate ways before turning back facing each other as the music finally comes to an end.

You make a courtsey as he bows. How funny that even in this your movements match.

Soon you hear slow yet emerging clapping all around you. You're not sure what to really make of it. The sound of clapping could either be mocking or congratulatory, and you're not sure which one what they were doing now.

Still

If anything is in doubt, you fake a smile and begin softly clapping along with them.

"My that was a wonderful dance between the two of you." The King says as he and Qoren make their way to the two of you.

"It seems the rumors are true. Princess Alys is indeed one of the best dancers there are in this realm." Qoren says in his Dornish accent.

"Thank you so much your majesty. I'm unaware of such rumors about me being gossiped about."

"Rumors proven true are just news, my lady." He takes your hand and presses a light kiss on it. You feel his stubble as your skin touches his lips.

"Well of course Aemond here is such a fine dance partner for her. My boy has been well educated in various fields."

"I agree, but from what I hear since I've arrived - he is still unmarried, noh?" He releases your hand as Aemond moves closer to your side, now facing the King and Prince Qoren.

"I am in no rush to enter into such a lifelong commitment Prince Martell."

"Ah you must want to savor the delights of being an unmarried man. I don't blame you. I was extremely invested in worldly pleasures before I married."

Oh so he wasn't here for a marriage alliance with you or anyone. It must be for something else then.

"I did not know you had married your majesty."

"My marriage is a new one, one I just consummated before I made my trip here. I came to talk about our dispute involving the triarchy. Something your stepfather seems to be more than happy to simply take up arms against us. But ah this is a party, we should be enjoying ourselves. Come Princess Alys, there are some people from my delegation that I would like to introduce you to." You take his arm as he introduces you to many members of the Dornish delegation. At the back of your head you feel Aemond's presence close by as he accompanies the King conversing with various members of the delegation.

"Ah and here is Arari, he is not formally a part of my delegation but I did promise him that my delegation would bring him here for his studies. Arari!"

The man named Arari turns and face you. You were surprised at how different he is from all the other Dornish. His hair was was long jet black. He was broader than Ser Ion's build, but based on how he looks so far, he's closer in age to you. Possibly the same age with Aemond. He wasn't ugly. You can see why some people would find him attractive, but you just couldn't find yourself drawn to him the way you were with Aemond and Ser Ion. By the way he makes his way toward you, you could tell he was confident and energetic.

"Arari, this is Princess Alys Velaryon. Eldest Daughter of Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen and the first grandchild of King Viserys."

"A pleasure to meet you Princess." He bows to you as he goes closer to you.

"A pleasure as well dear Ser. I hope you are well with your travels. I know how it isn't always pleasant."

"Why thank you Princess. Based on the party going on my trip coming here has been well worth it."

"May I ask why you aren't considered a part of the delegation?"

"Simple your highness. I'm not Dornish. I'm originally from Saath. When I wanted to be a scholar I made my way to Lorath since I had relatives there. Their resources were not enough so with the recommendation of my teachers I began my journey towards anywhere with a library. In exchange I teach them about Saathi and Lorathen culture."

"Oh you have the same profession as Ser Ion as a travelling scholar. Ser Ion works the same way but his field is on Valyrian culture and what remains of it till this day."

"Well I hope to meet him soon once I am able to settle down here."

"Forgive me for my lack of manners but I didn't know that many places valued travelling scholars."

"Oh you would be surprised Princess. After all knowledge is one of the most important tools a person could have. Without the right knowledge, even a soldier could suffer greatly."

"Then he is a mere foot soldier and not a well-trained one." You hear Aemond says as he goes to your side. Placing you in his right side.

"Also true, his highness certainly knows what makes the difference between a soldier and a commander."

"And this is venturing into something that I lack any knowledge of. I hope you enjoy the party." You make a small courtsey towards him.

"Thank you for the dance Prince Aemond." You give him a small nod as he gives you one in return. His gaze reassuring as you retire for the evening. You'll need some time to reflect on the events that happened tonight.

That night a rather strange dream comes to you.

You awaken facing a cluttered writing desk. This time it felt different. Whereas before it seemed like you were acting and travelling knowing that it is your dream, this felt more like you were reenacting what already has been done. More like a memory.

But weren't memories supposed to be recalling the past? Why did this feel like a memory when you were more than sure that you have not seen these things before?

You stretch your body as you step out of your bed and you hear music playing from beyond what appeared to be your bedroom. You feel yourself be delighted and your body eagerly goes to the source of the music.

As the sun rises in what appeared to be a living space. Just out of reach from the emerging ray of sunrise was a somewhat familiar figure. The figure was holding what appeared to be a fiddle or a similar instrument to it. But you couldn't pick out why.

"I hope you've drunk your sun medicine before coming here." You feel yourself say. You are then reminded that this somehow feels like a memory playing itself in your dreams.

"Hahaha, I wouldn't have played my violin if I hadn't. Shall I prove it to you?" That voice. Was it...?

"No need darling. I trust you. I always find myself delighted when I hear you play the Angel of Music instrumental." Your body feels joy as the figure finally faces you in the light.

Ser Ion was there in an expression of joy, love, and sensitivity towards you.

Or rather he looks like Ser Ion.

He definitely didn't act like him.

Ser Ion had an air of loneliness despite being surrounded by many people. There was an impatience in him which turned to reluctant patience when he began helping you with your powers. He was always enthusiastic about sharing Valyrian culture and any discourse surrounding it. Almost as if he was urgently trying to ensure that many people who would listen to him knew.

Whomever this figure was. Whomever he was that shared his form and voice was softer yet there was an underlying strength to him. He was confident in playing for you that even if he seemed to be both a stranger and yet familiar to you.

The tune he played with the object called the violin was undoubtedly beautiful. Your heart couldn't help but soar and swell with love and delight.

When he finished he goes toward you.

"This is just my first gift to you for today."

"You're making me blush."

"I like it when you blush."

"Now I'm concerned that I haven't prepared anything to give you today."

"You don't have to. You being in my life is a gift in itself."

He comes closer to you and you feel yourself leaning in towards him as your foreheads touch as he softly holds you closer to him.

"Happy Anniversary, wife."

You feel shock as your body reaches up to kiss him.

And then everything shifted after you felt your lips touch.

This time it was much more vague than the previous scene. Again it felt like a memory rather than an abstract dream.

This time you find yourself just removing your hands from a man shackled. Stepping more out of the way it turns out the man was shackled by both hands and feet by vines restraining him.

"Please, just kill me!"

"This is my punishment to you, for what you have done." You feel yourself say as you get a better look at the man still restrained by the vines. He was of average built, his unruly brown hair and full unkempt beard gave the impression that he was dirty. You felt yourself feel like you have given a relatively fair punishment.

"Fuck you! What makes me different than the vampires and the zombies? Why punish those who would like to see what Frankenstein sees?"

"You have clearly not finished the entire book. But no matter once the vines let you go, you can find out the entire story for yourself as you suffer."

You turn towards what appeared to be the exit from wherever you were.

"And if you think Vampires and Zombies are the same then you are gravely mistaken. One group does not violate my laws, the other does. You're a smart man, I'll let you figure that out on your own."

You make your exit as the man continues to curse you.

Then you wake up.

What a bizzare dream. Or rather it seems more like memories. But memories of what? You haven't been married yet and you don't recall punishing anyone of anything that was worse than death.

"Your instincts are right child. They are indeed memories. They are memories of your soul before this lifetime." The Prophetess Agnes says after she hears your consultation about your dreams.

"Is there a reason why they are invading my dreams?"

"Yes, I cannot tell you the full reason why. That would only be detrimental to you."

"It's fine, what can you tell me?"

"For now, as far as your dreams are concerned: Accept that you do not yet know the full meaning behind why they are occurring now. But once you recall everything, you will have an epiphany amidst a dire situation."

"Dire situation? It's the upcoming civil war isn't it." She gives you a sad smile.

"I cannot say child, but the seeds of such situation...they are already planted. What I can tell you is to be cautious, for there are those targetting you. But if you are clever you may use it to your advantage."

"...Can I not convince you to be a little bit more clearer?"

"My apologies child. But that is as clear as I can tell you without sacrificing your growth."

You nod as you give her a pouch of coins. She quickly checked it before she nods and gives you a reassuring smile. You stand as the Priestess Kara enters the room with a young man. More on the lanky side with his hair shortened as much as possible. He would have been mistaken for being bald had it not been for his seemingly black hairline and black area on his head.

"Oh Princess Alys, I would like to introduce you to one of our acolytes who will spend some months here. This is Kormy, I believe you two are the same age. Kormy this is Princess Alys Velaryon, eldest child of the Princess Rhaenyra and older twin sister of Prince Jacearys Velaryon."

"Hello your highness, I am Kormy from Braavos. I went to Asshai to be more devoted to the Red God. I hope I used the right greeting for you Princess."

"Oh don't worry I'm fine with simply 'My lady' Ser Kormy. It's my mother, my stepfather Prince Daemon, Prince Aegon, Prince Aemond, Princess Helaena, and Prince Daeron who should be addressed as 'Your Highness'. Although I can tell you right now that my parents wouldn't mind outside of formal settings."

You give a slight courtsey after he bows before you.

"It will be his name day in a few days Princess. We will be having a modest gathering for him."

"Priestess Kara - "

"He has been wondering if you would be able to attend."

"You don't have to my lady." He blushes in embarassment as Priestess Kara laughs.

"Where will it be?"

"Just here among us in the room next door. It wouldn't be as grand as any balls that are organized. But there will be good food and maybe some music."

You smile at him, your expression is reassuring.

"I'll do my best to make it Ser Kormy. I hope nothing will hinder me from attending."

"Don't worry acolyte, the Princess will be there." The Prophetess Agnes says with a lighthearted tone before she and Priestess Kara laugh and Ser Kormy's face became even redder.

"I'll see you in a few days for your name day celebration, Ser Kormy. Just be sure to send someone to remind me."

"Yes, thank you so much Princess." His boyish delight touched your heart as you exited the room. In the room to your left, Helaena also exits from what presumably was a session with the mystic Reyna.

"Oh Alys what a delight to see you again. I need your help." She grabs your hand as the two of you walk side by side moving towards her quarters.

"Alright but with what?"

"I need your help with dancing."

"Dancing? Helaena you know all the formal dances to these balls."

"Just because I know them doesn't mean I'm graceful like you are. In the last ball I only danced with Aemond and a few other familiar faces."

"What's wrong with that? You and Aemond seem to be having a good time while I had to struggle with Tyland Lannister wanting to only embrace me and not follow the steps-"

"But you made it so beautiful even in spite your struggles."

You both reached her quarters and her children were in a corner playing with their toys and with their nurses.

"Alys come play with us!"

"Tell us more stories please!"

"Oh I'm sorry my loves. But I need her help more."

"Don't worry I'll just be here with your mother. And if you're good, maybe I'll tell you a story again."

With them temporarily sated you and Helaena sit on her couch.

"I want to be able to dance like you. You are so stunning and magnetic when you dance. It's no wonder why both Aegon and Aemond want to dance with you." You raise an eyebrow at that.

"This is the first time that I've heard of this."

"You can't be serious."

"I know I'm one of the better dancers among my siblings, but that was for informal spontaneous dances. I still don't know if I'm any good in any of these formal dances."

"Have you really not noticed how many were watching you and Aemond in the last ball before you retired? They were entranced by how well you two moved."

"I think they were mainly watching Aemond."

"No, it was you they were definitely watching. It was a mix of envy for Aemond and desire for you."

"Well it was hard to notice those things while dancing and trying not to accidentally hit someone dancing close by. A part of me was worried that I was too stiff since I've only just learned the dances. But then I just let myself move with Aemond and with the music."

"But see you are a really good dancer. Please teach me Alys."

"Why do you want to learn so badly? I have no experience in teaching this."

"Because I also want to help." She takes both of your hands in hers.

"I know I'm rather unusual among our family but I don't think I would do any good just dancing with the people I know. I'm not good in politicking, but if dancing with the right person would help things even just a little bit, then I would really like to improve. Especially since Aegon doesn't really care about mine or our children's safety. I know you don't how to teach what must come naturally for you but even then maybe just a little bit of insight is enough. It's definitely better than nothing."

You could see the desperation in her eyes, and she did have a point. It was one thing for her to be mainly concerned for their children but since Aegon just cared about drinking and sleeping around, she needed to find as much people who are willing to support her and the children. If this civil war was not prevented then Aemond, Daeron and other people who may support her may die or be otherwise unavailable to help her.

"Alright, I'll do my best to help. But I'm not even sure if I'm a good teacher."

"Oh thank you so much Alys!"

You two embrace just as you hear her chamber doors open.

"Helaena dear - oh I wasn't expecting you had a ... visitor." Queen Alicent says as she looks at you with suspicion. Beside her was a man you haven't seen before.

"I was just asking Alys for some help mother."

"On what matters?"

"Just to help improve on my dancing that's all."

"I see, well it's time for your religious studies Helaena."

"With all due respect, your grace. I think it's wonderful if both of them would be involved. Aemond is unavailable and the Princess Helaena does better with at least one other person she knows." The middle-aged man says as his eyes scan your body.

"Oh Alys this is Ser Callan Kurztos, one of my teachers for religious studies under the faith."

"Ser Kurztos? The magistrate in King's Landing?"

"One of many. You have been adjusting to life here in the capital?"

"Honestly speaking Ser Kurztos, I feel I am still adjusting and haven't really settled quite yet."

"I find that hard to believe. I saw you and your siblings dance in a street party quite recently."

"Yes that was quite enjoyable dear Ser. But that was just a casual party, not the grind of daily life."

"Alys would you like to join us? I'd be really pleased if you could." As much as you would want to stay with Helaena, the tension in the room was suffocating. Queen Alicent was tense with you and Ser Callan Kurztos was staring at you strangely and in a way that made you feel uncomfortable.

"As much as I would like to, I have a prior engagement that I have to take care of. I'll see you around Helaena. Good day your grace, Ser Kurztos."

You make a courtsey to each of them before hastening to exit the room. Once you were outside you take a large breath. You still were not completely sure how Queen Alicent saw you. She was mad at your brothers and your mother, certainly. But you cannot read what she thinks of you.

However if anything these past few days taught you, it was better to be reasonably safe. And it seems it was safer to presume that you were included in the most hated people on her list. After all for all you know, she had someone in mind for Aemond. Probably a daughter of Borros Baratheon if not a lady of either the Lannisters or the Tyrells. Your presence around Aemond may make him more reluctant to have a marriage alliance with whomever she needs.

Your assurances that Aemond was too duty bound to not fulfill his duties to his house would fall on deaf ears.

"Need a time of contemplation?" You hear a voice which startled you from your thoughts as you were walking by the garden.

You look up as you see Arari pass by holding a bunch of books by his hands.

"Oh good day Ser Arari. I was just taking in some air. The past hours have been quite eventful for me."

"It looks like you need some rest Princess. Maybe I should escort you to your room."

"Thank you Ser Arari, but don't you need to go back to your studies?"

"Not to worry, I am quite used to the weight of books on my hands. Come you should rest."

"While escorting me, maybe you could enlighten me about Saathi and Lorethan culture. As much as the library here is quite extensive, the only thing available here about Saath is that it survived the doom of Valyria and that it used to be a part of the Kingdom of Saar."

"Are you sure you wouldn't just fall asleep on the way to your room?" You both chuckle. Even you can't deny how drained you feel.

"Start with the things people get wrong then. Maybe I'll absorb it as I sleep."

"Very well then." He then tells you tales of Saathi culture and how they the Tagaez Fen or the Taller men survived the doom of Valyria. Many of which were just more detailed accounts of what you've read.

"Since coming to Dorne I was amused by the beliefs of the Ironborn."

"You mean their practices surrounding the Drowned God?"

"Yes, but I'm referring to how they paint his rival as a Storm God. To them he is the evil that must be pushed back. But to us the Saathi and in some parts of Loreth, our main deity is the Storm God. Or rather we refer to him as the God of the Heavens. Responsible for either bringing storms or good weather. What else could be more unpredictable than when a lightning appears from the sky?"

"You have a point Ser Arari. I guess I've been surrounded by the idea that it is fire that is the most powerful." He chuckles as you both pass by the turn which would ultimately lead to your room. The sun was setting and the sky was turning dark. There was not much people around because everyone is rushing to a place to have dinner.

"Thank you again Ser A-AAhchoo!" To your horror some sparks flew out of your nose and mouth. You managed to redirect it away from Ser Arari, but there was no denying that he had definitely seen the sparks exit from you.

"Princess? Are you-"

"I'm fine it's just a-aaahhchoo!" Oh no. It was fortunate that he was able to go out of his way to dodge the sparks.

"You have powers Princess?"

"Please don't tell anyone. Is it alright if we could talk about it tomorrow?"

"Very well. Where shall we meet?"

"Well I usually meet with another scholar, Ser Ion, in the library after I visit my grandfather in the morning. He also knows of my hidden talents. Please don't speak of this to anyone."

"You have my word Princess. I will see you tomorrow."

Tomorrow came after a dreamless night. You must be so worried that it had concerned Aemond enough as he escorts you to the library after giving the King his daily pain relief.

"Alys what happened?"

"Why do you think something happened?"

"Because by now you would usually be talking about your strange dreams or any observations about court. Instead you are rather silent. And I'm left to be the one to extract from you." He guides you toward a semi-private alcolve that allowed the two of an adequate amount of privacy while being public enough not to give anyone any illicit ideas of what the two of you were up to.

"Come on, what is it?" After making sure that no one has seen the two of you or is possibly eavesdrop on your conversation, you step closer to him to ensure that he could hear your whispers.

"Yesterday, Ser Arari was escorting me to my room. I sneezed in front of him and sparks flew out." You meet his gaze as you don't bother hiding how worried you were.

"I asked him not to tell anyone, maybe he has, maybe he didn't but I am worried about more people knowing -"

"Should I accompany you then?"

"No, it's already worrisome to me that even you and Ser Ion knows about this. Ser Arari is practically a stranger and I don't know what he wants from me."

"Then allow me to join you in whatever meeting the two of you have -"

"That's not good for you though."

"How?"

"When I visited Helaena yesterday your mother was staring at me with suspicion just because she asked me for help with her dancing. I bet it's because you've been spending more time with me than with other possible wives."

"That's not an issue at all. Daeron is still unmarried and she doesn't bother him. It may just be surprise that you've been visiting Helaena. Besides if she wanted a marriage alliance through me, she would be asking me to have meals with the family members here. Not fly to wherever my potential wife may be."

"Well...if you're sure."

"Alys I wouldn't be offering if I knew it would compromise any of my selfish interests. Allow me to help you with this." He brushes a hand against your cheek. It was gentle, meant to be reassuring. But from his gaze you could tell that he wanted to be with you facing whatever problem this may face for you.

"Are you sure you won't miss your training?"

"I think it's about time I give my sparring partners a rest. Beside it's good for them to always be waiting on me. Keeps them in check."

"You sadist."

"You can't deny it's effective...well? What's your call?" You take a breath before relenting.

"Very well - but I'm the one going to take charge."

"Isn't that what you already do?"

You both chuckle and taking his arm you make his way to the library.

At the entrance of the library it turns out Sers Arari and Ion had been talking for awhile.

"Princess Alys you've arrived, and good day to you too your highness."

"You've both been talking while waiting for me?"

"Indeed my lady, perhaps we should continue our discussion inside-"

"I agree, let's finally settle any problems you have." Aemond says as he follows you inside. Giving the librarian one glance and the librarian directed your group towards a table separated from the main library where you may freely talk without interrupting other readers.

"Forgive me lady Alys, but may I ask why his highness is joining us over a potentially sensitive matter?"

"He knows, Ser Ion."

"I'm here to make sure whatever happens is for her benefit. Especially when a stranger has witnessed her ... hidden talents."

You felt his gaze staring them down from your periphery.

"No need to worry Princess. As a matter of fact I think I may be able to help with the ... sparkling problem."

"May I ask how Ser Arari?"

"You see Princess, sparks are just the smaller version of lightning. And my people, especially the ones who worship the God of the Heavens are known for magical practices of the lightning kind."

"Lightning? I'm sorry Ser Arari but I have problems believing that another travelling scholar just so happened to be able to help me with this."

Ser Arari places a hand facing upwards with the other hand hovering just above it.

And then a small bolt of lightning passed from one hand to the next. The bolt then travelled again in the opposite direction. And soon a steady stream of lightning was trapped in the confines of his hand.

"As you can see my Princess, I know how to manage this kind of power. Would you like me to teach you?"

The discussion afterwards was thankfully more straightforward. You may not entirely trust Ser Arari but if anything were to happen to you, at the very least Aemond would know if anything were to happen.

"I'm going to see you both tomorrow night." The King says as you finish placing energy in his blood circulation.

"Couldn't we move it to the evening after father? Alys has a party tonight and she might be too exhausted from it." You could hear the teasing underneath the sarcasm. His expression also belied his true intentions.

"It's just a modest name day dinner Aemond. I might even be able to retire early."

"I doubt that, especially with the name day boy being one of your admirers."

"Oh as if you don't have admirers of your own! You must be aware of the ladies swooning whenever you pass by."

He smirks at you as you hear the King chuckle.

"Well give my blessings to the name day boy Alys. Were I more able I would've made a visit too."

"Don't push yourself grandfather, besides I'm sure you would rather ponder the options of Aemond's potential wife to be."

"At this point my dear Alys, I'm would even accept someone from Dorne to be his wife."

"Let's not be hasty now father."

"Aemond, I'm not getting any younger, I could die any day now. I just don't want you to be alone for the rest of your life. Oh the maesters have arrived."

As soon as you and Aemond exit the chambers you make your way to the courtyard for practicing your powers.

"Good luck with your combat training Aemond."

"Good luck with you too Alys. One day you'll have to allow me to watch you."

"Maybe when I'm no longer a beginner and at risk of accidentally killing you."

"Then how come Ser Ion is still alive?"

"Geros Ilas Aemond." He chuckles as you turn towards the courtyard to begin your training.

Since it was just your first day, Ser Arari mainly lectured on how Saathi magic users controlled lightning. Lightning tends to accompany fluids such as the rain and in your case, your nose and your mouth.

Afterwards you begin your fire exercises with Ser Ion. This time you were to light up a room full of torches.

You sadly were only able to light up only half of them.

"Make sure you don't run out of breath. Even dragons need air to make fire."

"Had I known it would be this exhausting I might have skipped training today."

"Your party is still later in the evening."

"Ser Ion maybe she should be finished early. Women have grander preparations for social gatherings than we do."

"And I've been doing these fire exercises for hours now." Ser Ion looks at you with frustration, but relents after seeing how exhausted you are.

You take a small nap in order to regain your energy. Telling your handmaiden that if it's time to dress she should awaken you.

As you fell into deep sleep. You find yourself dreaming once again.

This time you found yourself watching a peculiar scene. A part of this feels familiar in a way that you may have watched a performance of this sometime before.

An old man whom you don't recognize, dressed in black robes began singing.

🎵"Beata Maria, you know I am a righteous man Of my virtue I am justly proud (et tibit pater)"🎵

He then moves toward the big fireplace, his voice getting louder more declaratory.

🎵"Beata Maria, you know I'm so much purer than The common, vulgar, weak, licentious crowd (quia peccavi nimis)"🎵

You don't know how you know but it was at this moment onwards that you knew this was a nightmare. You wish you could look away but you can't.

🎵"Then tell me, Maria, why I see her dancing there? Why her smoldering eyes still scorch my soul? (cogitatione) I feel her, I see her The sun caught in her brunette hair Is blazing in me out of all control (verb o et opere)

Like fire Hellfire This fire in my skin"🎵

He takes out a translucent scarf and begins caressing it on his face. And you felt violated, you want to runaway but you were trapped watching him.

🎵"This burning desire Is turning me to sin"🎵

A mass of red hooded figures emerge around you. Singing in a language that seems familiar but you couldn't quite recall right now.

🎵"It's not my fault (mea culpa) I'm not to blame (mea culpa) It is the bastard girl the witch who sent this flame (mea maxima culpa) It's not my fault (mea culpa) If in God's plan (mea culpa) He made the Devil so much stronger than a man (mea maxima culpa)"🎵

They return to the fire, and to your horror you notice a figure that vaguely resembles you. Alluring the old man to embrace her while dancing around.

🎵"Protect me, Maria Don't let this siren cast her spell Don't let her fire sear my flesh and bone Destroy Alys Velaryon And let her taste the fires of hell Or else let her be mine and mine alone"🎵

You really wish you could escape as he becomes even more manic. But anything you try to do you feel suffocated, as if you really were on a burning pyre struggling to breathe.

🎵"Hellfire Darkfire Now bastard, it's your turn Choose me or your pyre Be mine or you will burn"🎵

You feel yourself crying out tears as you try to scream out your pain. But your voice doesn't emerge. No one can hear you as the old man leans against the wall as the shadows of the hooded figures grow.

🎵"Kyrie eleison God have mercy on her Kyrie eleison God have mercy on me Kyrie eleison But she will be mine Or she will burn"🎵

Your eyes open quickly with you breathing heavily.

Of all the nightmares to have before a name day celebration it had to be this one. You couldn't help but feel the tears fall from your eyes as you feel violated. Who was that man lusting after you? You don't even remember him let alone what you've done to cause him to react this way.

"Are you alright my lady?" The acolyte Ser Kormy asks as he finds you staring intently at the fire place. Your goblet of ale still unfinished.

"Oh Ser Kormy, I'm sorry if I seem lightheaded in your name day celebration."

"It is no problem my lady, I was actually frightened you wouldn't appear. Tell me what is troubling you." His eyes reminded you of the expression that Luce would sometimes give you when he knew something was troubling you. It was a mix of the eyes of a puppy dog and a baby dragon.

"I wouldn't want to damper your party."

"The party is slowing down now. I think we can afford to discuss anything at this point."

You would prefer it if you would discuss this with one of the Holy women, but all three have retired for the evening and for their individual rituals.

Since he is so willing, you supposed there shouldn't be any harm sharing this with Ser Kormy. He was an acolyte after all and maybe it was a nightmare just scaring you more than it should.

"Earlier, while I was napping, I had a bizarre nightmare. I don't know why it's still scaring me now that I am awake." His expression was contemplative as he offers you his arm.

"Come with me, I may know something to help clarify your nightmare."

"But you can't leave your own party." You exclaim.

"I can, especially if it's to help someone in need. Besides more people are retiring already." It was then that you looked at your surroundings and you see and hear people bidding each other good evening and that they are now going to retire for the night.

He leads you to a room near the three rooms mainly used by the Holy women. In the room there was a rather large table with a large candelabra at the center of it. You take a seat opposite each other as he puts an unlit candle in between the two of you.

"The flames of this candelabra was blessed according to the traditions of R'hllor. In these flames comes enlightenment and a clarification of truth. We can use these flames to help clarify why you had that nightmare and what does it mean."

"How are we going to do that?"

"You've seen Priestess Kara do it. I'll be acting as a medium while you ask questions. Priestess Kara could do it without the candles, but I still need to rely on them." You feel yourself be a little bit disturbed. It must have showed on your face because he's immediately concerned.

"Oh I'm sorry my lady, I should've asked if you were comfortable with this first."

"It's fine but...does this mean you're going to have multiple voices?"

"Maybe, I know I have two voices coming out of me. But sometimes it could be more than that. Don't worry the voices are benign, it's just to show that we really are tools for the divine more than anything. That is if you're still willing to try."

Some parts of you wanted to turn around and run away. But you also couldn't lose this chance to know about what your nightmare could mean.

"I'm ready."

He nods and then focuses on the fire in between the two of you. After some time his pupils vanished and his mouth began speaking in a voice drastically lower than his speaking voice. His normal voice was now there just to remind you of the impossibility of an ordinary person not within the R'hllor faith to have this ability.

"You come here seeking answers because of your nightmare. Ask your questions truth seeker."

"Thank you. First I would like to know why I had such nightmare."

"You were given the nightmare by someone who loves you."

This is puzzling.

"Loves me? Why would someone send something so traumatizing if they loved me?"

"It's one of the few ways he could warn you about what's to come without risking too much of what will happen."

"So he sends a nightmare?"

"How else would you remember it once you've awaken? Plenty of times dreams are forgotten at the moment of waking."

Hmm he had a point.

"Then may I ask, what was it trying to warn me of? I just feel violated, horrified, and suffocated by an old man lusting after a figure of me emerging from the fire."

"Then you have recieved the warning truth seeker. There are many around you who lust after you, and who would not mind it if you were to be tortured or persecuted if you rejected them. You will feel the trauma you are feeling now. Which is why you must prepare yourself."

"Prepare myself? How? Why didn't this someone - whomever he is - just tell me the names of those who would wish to harm me?"

"Simple, he and many others who love you cannot interfere with the free will of these people. There is still a chance that they may not act on it, and there is a chance that they will chase after you. All they can do is send you an unforgettable warning to take care, find your own strength, to not give up on your beliefs...and most importantly to have hope."

"Hope?"

"Yes, truth seeker. Hope. Never give up the hope that your actions have made an impact, even if it doesn't seem like it. Have hope that some tragedies are necessary to prepare you for the future."

As you lay down in your bed that evening you begin to recall what the Priestess Kara had told you when she arrived.

"Speaking of hope...When you are in doubt of what to do or where your journey is headed Princess Alys, just remember the words of your father. The words that allowed him to defeat the morningstar."

From what your mother and those around both of your fathers have said, they too were also puzzled because neither Sers Leanor Velaryon nor Harwin Stong had an opponent whose moniker was "The morningstar" or anything similar in meaning. Neither did it refer to any weapons any of their opponents wielded. And with a name like "Morningstar" it's bound to have some sort of fame.

But what did this have to do with hope?

AUTHOR'S NOTE: Thank you so much for reading, I'll be back in writing gear after Dec. 17. Part 5 starts with the infamous last supper scene but this time with Alys in between Aegon and Jace. Directly across King Viserys.

Some other notes:

1.) I know the made up names are strange and seemingly unnatural. There is a purpose for that (and also because I just pormanteau'd some names) later in the story when the drama really happens;

2.) The angel of music instrumental that the Ser Ion look alike from her past life memories (I can't say his name yet) is this one. This is in honor of my late grandfather who passed away in May of this year. But I also genuinely love Phantom of the Opera and the musical will forever hold a place in my heart;

3.) Hellfire is composed by Alan Menken and performed by Tony Jay with some lyrics modified to fit the story (btw check out Hellfire in Latin or in an Epic Orchestra version);

4.) It's only now that I realized that I have given her a moment with each of the three siblings (since Daeron is not yet in the show), Aemond is a given of course but I actually wasn't expecting to write a moment with Aegon and Helaena (but that's where the writing muse lead me to);

5.) This is on the "filler" episode side because I need to introduce many of the main suitors players as much as possible. You'll see why later (Hint: If you know what famous story the amphora in my Spoilers with no context post is from, then you already know why there are many suitors).

#aemond targaryen #aemond fic #aemond one eye #aemond fanfiction #Aemond one eye #House of the dragon #Hotd #The sandman #Zaldrizo Lentor #Crossover fanfiction #Aemond x reader #aemond x fem!reader #Aemond x Alys Velaryon #Hotd fanfiction #Sandman fanfiction

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