Heir of the Dragon

Ashara of Asshai

"I still don't see the point of this stupid feast." Jessica was pacing back and forth while Helaena continued her needlework.

Jessica sighed and ran her hands through her hair. "I know that Aemond gave me a way out. He said I could hide up in our chambers. Seven Hells he even said he'd join me."

Her handmaids kept following behind her, trying to lace up her dress, but it was futile as Jessica kept pacing.

"And yet, what does the realm need? A united family!" Jessica threw her hands up in the air. "And the funny thing is, our family has never been more divided. And where is Mysaira?" She hadn't seen her advisor since Aegon had been crowned.

Helaena seemed to finally have enough and threw her needlework into her lap. Helaena reached up and grabbed her hand.

Jessica stopped in her tracks and looked down at her sister. It was not often Helaena reached out and touched anyone.

Jessica knelt down and got on her level. "What is it Helaena?"

Helaena gripped Jessica's hand even tighter. "Beware the songs that are sung tonight, Sweet Girl, for those songs will be your undoing."

Helaena and Jessica shared a long hard look, before her head dipped down and she continued her needlework.

"Don't put much thought into Helaena's words, My Love." Aemond wrapped his arms around her waist, and kissed her shoulder.

Jessica sighed and leaned into Aemond. "I shouldn't, but Helaena's words tend to be correct."

Aemond turned her around and kissed her softly. "I know you don't want to attend the feast, but try to have some fun tonight. For me?"

Jessica gave a soft smile and laid her head on his chest, "no promises."

Aemond kissed the top of her head, then lead her out of the chambers.

"And here I thought I'd have to come flush you out." Aegon beamed at them as Jessica and Aemond descended the stairs.

Helaena and Aegon were at the front, Jessica and Aemond following behind.

"Well you know how much I enjoy these feasts." Jessica reached up and kissed Aegon's cheek.

The music started and Aegon lead Helaena into the Great Hall, Aemond and Jessica following behind and Alicent bringing up the rear.

Aegon sat on the high chair in the center of the royal table. Helaena and Alicent to his immediate right. Jessica was sat to his immediate left and Aemond was sitting directly next to her.

Jessica watched as all the high born lords and ladies made their way in. Coming to the royal table and paying their respects.

When everyone seemed settled, Aegon stood and raised his glass.

"Here here!" Aegon began. "It's truly an honor to have you all here at my table. Tonight is a joyous celebration. We have the first blow to Rhaenyra and The Blacks. The death of Prince Lucerys Velaryon and his dragon Arrax. And that is all thanks to my bother, Aemond, Kinslayer! My brother has done me a great service and I forever will be indebted to him. To Prince Aemond!"

"PRINCE AEMOND! HERE, HERE!" The crowd erupted into applause, goblets in hand and banging them on the table.

Aemond glanced over to Jessica, who silently had her cup in hand, a neutral expression across her face. He reached over and took her free hand in his, giving it a tight squeeze.

Jessica was never so glad when Aegon finally sat down and his wine was replenished. Her eyes scanned across the great hall, when she spotted a familiar face.