𝐁𝐔𝐑𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐒 ||Aegon Targaryen||

10. „She will be safe, Your Grace"

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„Mum?" Alysanne's voice was a gentle murmur as she approached Rhaenyra, who stood solemnly beside her brothers. Today was Laena's funeral, and the air was thick with grief and solemnity. Only yesterday, Alysanne and Cregan had been sitting in dragon pit, their laughter echoing off the ancient walls, emerging only as the sky darkened, to be met with the heart-wrenching news of her aunt's passing. The sorrow had struck Alysanne deeply, and Cregan, sensing her turmoil, had gently guided her to her room, leaving her alone to process her grief.

Rhaenyra, catching sight of her daughter, managed a faint, fragile smile. Alysanne moved closer, wrapping her arms around her mother in a long, comforting embrace. She then stepped beside her brothers, drawing strength from their united front. The cool breeze carried the scent of the sea, mingling with the faint aroma of incense burning nearby, a customary practice to honor the dead. The sounds of waves crashing against the shore provided a melancholic backdrop to the mournful occasion.

Across the gathering stood Daemon, with Rhaena and Baela. Her grandfather, King Viserys, was present, along with Alicent, Aegon, Daeron, Aemond, and Helaena. Alysanne shared a brief, poignant glance with Aemond, their eyes still shadowed by the memory of their last encounter in the dragon's cave. Aemond's expression was filled with regret; he longed to mend the rift between them and return to the closeness they once shared.

Alysanne wore a black dress that accentuated her solemn beauty, the color a perfect match for the day's somber mood. The fabric flowed elegantly with each step she took, the intricate lace details on the sleeves and neckline adding a touch of delicacy. Her sword dark sister clung to her waist for comfort, her small fingers gripping tightly as if afraid to let go. Determined to provide some solace, Alysanne walked over to Daemon and her grieving cousins, Rhaena and Baela, who had lost their mother the day before.

"Great-uncle," Alysanne greeted Daemon respectfully, then turned her gaze to her cousins. The grief etched on their faces mirrored her own sorrow, their eyes red-rimmed from countless tears.

"My condolences. She's happier now," Alysanne said softly, enveloping Rhaena and Baela in a warm embrace. Daemon managed a small smile, grateful for Alysanne's empathy and support for her cousins.

"Come on," Alysanne encouraged, gently pulling Rhaena and Baela towards the table set with refreshments. The girls followed her hesitantly, still overwhelmed by their loss.

"Alysanne, where are we going?" Baela asked, her voice tinged with confusion and sadness.

"I'm thirsty," Alysanne replied with a gentle smile, reaching for a pitcher of blueberry juice. She poured three glasses, handing them to Rhaena and Baela, whose hands trembled as they accepted the drinks. The vibrant color of the juice contrasted starkly with the somber atmosphere, a small reminder of life's persistent vibrancy.

"Come on, I know you miss your mother, but she would want you to be happy, not to mourn her forever," Alysanne said, taking a sip of her juice. Her words brought a faint smile to the girls' faces. They knew she was right. Losing a mother was a profound pain, but the world continued, and their mother would not have wanted them to be trapped in sorrow.

"So, Rhaena, Vhagar, huh?" Alysanne said with a brighter smile, trying to lift their spirits. Rhaena's lips curled into a small, sad smile.

"She was my mother's," Rhaena replied, her voice filled with a mixture of pride and sorrow. Baela wrapped an arm around her sister, offering silent support.

"Your mother left her to you, her greatest treasure," Alysanne said, her smile encouraging.

"When are you going to claim her?" Alysanne asked seriously as she turned to pour more juice.