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FROM THE ASHES
—19. From the ashes

 From the ashes

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As many began to dance and join the celebrations, Shaera found herself remaining seated. She watched everything around her, the pit in her stomach telling her something was wrong. She assumed it was just her paranoia but she couldn't shake it.

She turned, watching as a man of House Royce step toward them. "In the Vale, men are made to answer for their crimes," He spoke up and Shaera realized he was speaking to Daemon, "Even Targaryens."

"Who are you?" Daemon questioned, looking bored of the man's presence.

"Ser Gerold Royce of Runestone," He answered proudly and Rhaegon laughed, immediately knowing what it was about.

"Shut up," Daemon growled at him, refusing to allow his son to make him laugh in such a serious situation.

It was common for the two of them. Daemon would do something and get caught, which Rhaegon had always found funny. It always seemed to come back and bite him in the ass.

"And?" Daemon turned to the Royce man once more, raising a brow at him.

Ser Gerald sighed, moving closer to Daemon. "I am cousin to your late Lady Wife."

"Ah, yes," He answered sarcastically, "Terrible thing. I'm positively bereft. Such a tragic accident."

Hearing his response, Shaera had to stop herself from laughing. He hadn't changed one bit. Everyone knew he was guilty and still, he managed his facade.

"You know better than anyone, it was no accident," Ser Gerold glared at the man, who didn't seem to be bothered in the slightest.

"Are you confessing some guilt, Ser Gerold?" Daemon questioned tauntingly.

"I am making an accusation."

Daemon only smiled, turning to glance at Viserys. "You know, in King's Landing, men are made to answer for their slanders. Even old bronze cunts like you," He insulted the man, who tried his hardest to remain calm, "The truth is, I'm glad you've come. I wish to speak to you about my inheritance."

"What inheritance?" Ser Gerold asked, not possibly imagining Daemon would dare ask such a thing.

"Lady Rhea and I had no heirs. As her husband, whatever she was due now passes to me," Daemon explained, which obviously made the Royce man anxious, "She stood to inherit all of Runestone...Did she not?"

Daemon continued to watch the man become speechless, not knowing to respond politely. "After my niece's wedding, I plan to fly to the Eyrie and petition Lady Jeyne myself. Perhaps I'll see you there, Ser Gerold."

With that, the man left, unable to argue with the prince. Daemon only smiled in satisfaction, turning toward Shaera. He sighed dramatically, leaning closer to her.

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