VALAERIE

Chapter 7

Rhaena approached Aemon's bedside where he lay recovering, with Jocelyn faithfully by his side. Alysanne's concern for both her son and Valaerie was evident as she turned to Rhaena for news.

"Rhaena, how is Valaerie? Is she alright? I tried to see her, but Lady Beth said she doesn't want to talk to anyone," Alysanne inquired anxiously, her worry for Valaerie weighing heavily on her.

"She's fine now, Alysanne. She just needs some time," Rhaena reassured her sister, though she herself was still processing the events.

Turning to Aemon, Rhaena asked, "And how are you feeling, Aemon?"

"I'm perfectly fine, Aunt. Please convey my gratitude to Valaerie for saving me," Aemon replied gratefully. Rhaena exhaled softly, relieved that Aemon was physically unharmed.

Meanwhile, Baelon pondered silently beside them, still trying to comprehend how Valaerie had managed to swim through the perilous waves. He was amazed by her courage but also troubled by her seeming disregard for her own safety.

"Aemon, could I speak with you alone for a moment?" Rhaena requested, glancing at the others. Alysanne frowned slightly but nodded, understanding her sister's need for privacy. She then gestured for Jocelyn and Baelon to step outside with her, giving Rhaena and Aemon some space to talk privately.

The room was quiet as Jocelyn kissed Aemon on the forehead before leaving with Queen Rhaena. Alone now, Rhaena approached Aemon and sat beside his bed.

"You saw her," Rhaena began, her voice tinged with concern. Aemon nodded solemnly in response.

"I did," he affirmed quietly.

Rhaena took a deep breath, her gaze searching Aemon's face. "We both know what she's been through, things a child shouldn't have to endure. Those marks... those lines on her body are a testament to her resilience. Whatever happens to her, she's suffered enough. Please, Aemon, don't mention this to anyone," Rhaena pleaded earnestly, her maternal instincts driving her to protect her daughter at all costs.

Aemon could sense the depth of Rhaena's love for Valaerie. "I understand," he assured her, his voice gentle.

"But where did she get those... what are they?" Aemon asked, curiosity and concern mingling in his tone.

"I don't know," Rhaena admitted with a sigh. "Valaerie has always been different, unique. Perhaps one day, when she's ready and trusts you enough, she may share her secrets," she added thoughtfully.

Aemon pondered Rhaena's words, finding Valaerie's enigmatic nature both intriguing and captivating. She was a girl who defied convention, whose mysteries seemed woven into her very being. He found himself drawn to her complexities, wanting to unravel them, yet also respecting her privacy.

"Don't worry, Aunt. I'll protect her secret," Aemon vowed sincerely as Rhaena smiled gratefully before leaving the room.

Alone once more, Aemon took a deep breath, reflecting on the conversation. Just then, Jocelyn returned, her presence bringing a warmth to the room. She gazed at her husband and smiled knowingly.

"You seem to be thinking of her," Jocelyn observed playfully.

Aemon furrowed his brow slightly, caught off guard.

"Don't deny it, husband," Jocelyn teased gently, moving closer to him and laying beside him on the bed. "I find her fascinating too... I want to get to know her better," she confessed, her eyes reflecting genuine curiosity.

Aemon couldn't help but smile at his wife's honesty and their shared intrigue. "We're perfect for each other, wife," he said softly, a sense of contentment in his voice.