𝐅𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐋 / / 𝐀𝐄𝐌𝐎𝐍𝐃 𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐆𝐀𝐑𝐘𝐄𝐍

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

"You look tired this morning, Visenya."

In the wake of her joyful reunion with Karson and his raucous companions, a night of mead and spirited catch ups had unfolded. He gallantly escorted her back to the Red Keep, his eyes dancing with admiration as she unveiled the clandestine entrance she had employed. He marveled at the genius of the architect who had devised such concealed passages within an already imposingly magnificent structure.

That night, fatigue and the intoxicating effects of mead converged, sweeping her into slumber with remarkable ease. She scarcely had the energy to shed her garments before succumbing to the embrace of plush cushions, her body surrendering to the realm of dreams. Yet, within the sanctuary of her unconscious mind, unsettling visions took hold. Darkened passageways tangled with dragons, shrouded in flames and echoing with anguished cries, their monstrous jaws snapping shut with menace. These were the kind of dreams she dared not vocalize.

Helaena's gentle voice roused her from her introspective reverie, and Visenya redirected her attention to the princess, who looked at her with evident concern.

"I'm fine," Visenya assured with a faint smile. She reclined casually on the opposite sofa, her arm draped nonchalantly across her stomach. "Just had a restless night's sleep, that's all."

Helaena regarded her cousin with a skeptical look, an unspoken acknowledgment that she didn't entirely believe Visenya's dismissal. Nevertheless, she let the matter rest for the moment, handing Jaehaera to one of the nurses. The twins had undeniably grown since Visenya's arrival in the capital. While they were still small infants, their increasing size made Visenya feel less uneasy when holding them, although they remained delicate bundles requiring tender care.

"Aegon's name day approaches soon," Helaena shared, her voice carrying the weight of consideration. "I've yet to find him a suitable gift."

Visenya arched a single eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "Does he typically get you gifts for your name day?"

Helaena nodded thoughtfully. "Yes, ever since we were married. It's usually jewelry, dresses, once even a pearl pin for my hair."

Visenya couldn't resist a hint of sarcasm in her response. "How thoughtful of him."

Helaena, seemingly oblivious to the sarcasm, continued, "They are pretty, of course, but they don't truly hold my heart." She reached for the tea by her side, taking a delicate sip. "They're nice to admire, I suppose."

This revelation prompted Visenya to tilt her head, her gaze focused intently on her cousin. "What then truly captures your heart, Helaena?"

Fingers idly drumming against her ornate cup, Helaena allowed her gaze to wander around the room as she contemplated the question. "I find solace in reading, in the tales of far off lands beyond Westeros. The diversity of places, the wonders that exist beyond these shores, it all fascinates me deeply."

A soft, understanding smile graced Visenya's lips as she observed her cousin's wistful gaze. It was evident that Helaena was a dreamer, forever caught in the intricate tales woven in the pages of her books. To Visenya, it was no surprise. The daily routines of courtly life, the constant scrutiny of the nobility, and the monotonous tasks that came with being a royal had a way of dulling even the most vibrant souls. It was a lamentable reality, one that she knew all too well; that Helaena was, in essence, a brood mare, destined to bear children and serve the dynasty without truly experiencing the wide world beyond the Red Keep's walls.

Visenya couldn't help but wonder how much of herself she saw in Helaena. A longing for adventure and the freedom to explore beyond the confines of her status. Yet, her role in the Targaryen dynasty was clear, and it required a different kind of strength.