𝐖𝐚𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐬 | 𝐉𝐚𝐜𝐚𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐬 𝐕𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐲𝐨𝐧

𝐯𝐨̄𝐫𝐞

meanwhile back at Dragonstone...

"It's been seven months! We haven't gotten a raven once—or something to know she's okay. I'm not going to have a repeat of last time. I'm leaving for Kings Landing, whether you approve of it or not."

When the news of his younger brother Lucerys arrival back to Dragonstone was announced along with a girl who was rumored to be Astraea, it gave him some hope to finally apologize to the princess—apologize for not being strong enough to defend her Aegon that day.

Jacaerys chose to live in his guilt over his sanity. He made a habit of writing letters to Astraea. Every day, the prince would write to her, telling stories she had missed. At the end of every letter, he would apologize repeatedly as if he were to blame for her disappearance.

The prince kept all these letters in a box, hoping to give them to the princess one day.

"We cannot risk the possibility of both of you. We mustn't act impulsively; it brings an ache to my heart that my sister is halfway across from me and us. She'll come back to us just like before. I believe she can. I know it."

"I'm no longer sitting here; I can't lose her again." Tears dance along the prince's eyes. It's evident
how much he truly cares for the princess.

Rhaenyra has often caught his son upon his admiration for Astraea. The simple acts of kindness he has shown to her make sure she feels seen, understood, and, above all, safe.

This act of Jacaerys towards Astraea has given her some relief. If there were ever a time when she left this world, it would give her peace knowing her sister has someone willing to stand beside her.

The queen walks closer to his son, her right hand reaching for his face and caressing it softly. "Alert the council. As soon as we're done, we'll go to Kings Landing after the meeting ends. Inform your brother as well."

♕

⸻
Astraea Lily Targaryen

I am now ten and eight, and it's been seven months since that night—the never-ending nightmare that has placed me in a position where I fight for my life, tossing and turning for help even in my dreams.

"Jaehaera darling, c'mon, let Astraea have her rest." Her daughter pouted at me, awaiting my response, which I found adorable.

"It's alright, Halaena. Stay for a little while, both of you."

"You should be resting. It isn't good for the babe."

"I've been in this bed for god knows how long, I have rested enough." I sighed, grabbing the stuffed animal I had bought for my babe.

When I found out I was to have a child, no matter how much anger and hatred I expressed toward him or her —it felt so wrong; it felt so bad to be filled with hatred.