𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓣𝓱𝓲𝓻𝓭 𝓢𝓸𝓷

Chapter 34

Aegon found himself once again in the company of Lady Sesa Grafton, the youngest daughter of Lord Gerold Grafton of Gulltown. The earlier formalities of introductions had given way to more personal conversations, and now, seated in a quiet garden within the castle grounds, Aegon sought to learn more about the woman before him.

Lady Sesa was a delicate beauty, her light brown hair softly curled and flowing past her shoulders. Her eyes, the color of the sea after a storm, were sharp and perceptive, taking in her surroundings with a quiet, thoughtful demeanor. She was dressed modestly in a gown of deep blue, the fabric simple yet elegant, a reflection of her noble birth.

They sat at a stone table surrounded by lush greenery, a rare touch of softness amid the starkness of Dragonstone's architecture. Aegon sipped from a cup of Dornish red wine, while Sesa gently stirred a cup of tea, the steam curling in the cool afternoon air.

"Your family's loyalty to House Targaryen is well known," Aegon began, breaking the silence. "My cousin, the late Queen Aemma, often spoke of the steadfastness of House Grafton. I understand your father was particularly close to her."

Sesa nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "Yes, Your Highness. My father held your mother in the highest regard. He admired her strength and her unwavering commitment to her family. When she passed, it was a great loss for us all. But our loyalty to House Targaryen remains as strong as ever."

Aegon listened, appreciating the sincerity in her voice. "And what of you, Lady Sesa? Tell me about your life in Gulltown."

Sesa hesitated for a moment as if choosing her words carefully. "There is not much to tell, Your Highness. I have two older brothers who are my father's pride and joy. As the youngest and only daughter, my role has always been more... traditional. My father wishes to see me married and settled, as is expected."

Her tone was light, but there was a hint of reluctance beneath her words. Aegon noticed the subtle shift in her expression, the way her fingers tightened slightly around the cup she held.

"And is that what you want, Sesa?" Aegon asked, his voice gentle yet probing. "To be married off as your father wishes?"

Sesa's eyes met his, a flicker of something unspoken passing between them. "If I am to be honest, Your Highness, no. I do not wish to be married simply because it is expected of me. I have seen too many women lose themselves in such arrangements, their lives dictated by the desires of others. I desire more than that, though I do not know if such a desire is realistic in the world we live in."

Aegon studied her carefully, impressed by her candor. "And what is it that you desire, if not marriage?"

Sesa smiled, a wistful expression crossing her face. "I wish to serve a cause greater than myself, to be of use in a way that brings me fulfillment. I want to find my place in this world, one that is not solely defined by the title of 'wife.'"

Aegon leaned back in his chair, considering her words. He had met many women during his tour, but Sesa's honesty and self-awareness stood out to him. She was not seeking a crown or a title; she was searching for a purpose.

"Would you be interested in serving my daughter, Vaerla, as her handmaid?" Aegon asked after a moment of contemplation. "She could benefit greatly from the guidance of someone as thoughtful and sincere as you. It would also allow you to find the purpose you seek, without the constraints of a traditional marriage."

Sesa's eyes widened slightly in surprise, clearly not expecting the offer. "To serve the princess... It would be an honor, Your Highness," she replied, her voice filled with genuine emotion. "I would be more than willing to take on such a role."