The Green Queen

Chapter 20: Building and Mending Relationships

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Viserys

Viserys stood by the window of the Red Keep, looking out over the sprawling city of King's Landing. The golden rays of the afternoon sun filtered through the stained glass windows, casting colorful patterns on the stone floor. His thoughts were far from the mundane concerns of ruling a kingdom; they were with his family. A twinge of guilt tugged at his heart as he thought of Aemma, but seeing Rhaenyra and Alicent together brought a bittersweet relief.

The tension between Alicent and Rhaenyra had been a source of constant worry for him, a shadow over his every decision. But recent days had brought a change, a glimmer of hope that he dared not fully trust yet.

With Aegon nearing a year old,with his wife pregnant again, and with the amicable relationship between his daughter and new wife,Viserys felt very blessed.

He watched with quiet contentment as Alicent and Rhaenyra shared a conversation, their laughter occasionally ringing out in the serene space. The tension that had once defined their interactions seemed to be dissolving, replaced by a tentative but genuine camaraderie.

The only missing is Daemon's presence and deference their family would be complete. 

He sighed.

Viserys is glad that despite the sourness of his daughter towards his marriage, the issue was resolved shortly. Both girls' are still warm towards each other. Rhaenyra even visited after Alicent's birth with Aegon and their friendship near restored, despite the slight distance. 

Viserys knows that he can't expect to have his family like it was before, and that his marriage with Alicent have certain consequences. No one could replace Aemma in his heart, Alicent knew that. But within a year of marriage Viserys felt love again with Alicent, although quite incomparable to his love with Aemma. 

He turned from the window as the door creaked open, revealing Alicent with a soft smile. "Your Grace," she said, dipping her head respectfully.

"Alicent," he greeted, his voice warmer than usual. "Come, sit with me."

They sat together, and he noticed the relaxed set of her shoulders, the ease in her smile. "I spoke with Rhaenyra today," she said, a touch of excitement in her voice. "We spent the afternoon in the gardens. It was... pleasant."

'She had gone out of her way to find common ground, sharing stories and listening to Rhaenyra’s concerns.' Viserys thought. 

Viserys felt a surge of gratitude and relief. "I'm glad to hear it," he said. "I know it's been difficult for both of you."

Alicent nodded. "It has, but I believe we're finding our way back to each other. Slowly, but surely."

Viserys reached out, taking her hand in his. "Thank you, Alicent. This means more to me than you know. Rhaenyra needs her family, now more than ever."

She squeezed his hand, her eyes reflecting the same determination he felt. "We'll make it work, Your Grace. For you, for Rhaenyra, and for the realm."

She's kind and understanding as she can be. She's also fierce, ready to stand her ground, with eyes burning with passion. Viserys also discovered that Alicent is all bite and no bark, truly like a silent dragon, and when she barks it was not a bark, but a roar. Which made her a fine dragonrider. It must be the diluted Valyrian blood in her.