ℍ𝕚𝕤 𝔹𝕒𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕣𝕕 𝕝𝕠𝕧𝕖𝕣 | 𝐻𝑜𝓊𝓈𝑒 𝑜𝒻 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒟𝓇𝒶𝑔𝑜𝓃

10

Cerys was determined to locate Aemond at all costs. She was desperate while roaming the vast corridors of the Red Keep. Her mind became clouded, distressed, and anxious at his sudden disappearance. It was scheduled for them to conversate today, and here she was, anxiously searching for him. 

"Cerys? Are you alright?" 

She snapped her head to Princess Rhaenyra who gently grabbed ahold of her. 

"Oh--Yes, yes I am." 

She replied with a forced smile on her lips, while her eyes continued scanning for the silver-haired man. 

"There is something of the utmost importance, that we must discuss" 

The princess's voice sounded urgent as she gently ushered the girl to her chambers. Although Rhaenyra spoke to her, Cerys mind was occupied, she did not have time to discuss any other matter other than hers and Aemond. 

"I have sent a raven to...Winterfell" 

Cerys's eyes fluttered as she realized she was now standing in the center of the princess's chambers, watching as her grace cradled her stomach with her palm. 

"Where-- the starks reside?"

She asked, attempting to involve herself in the conversation she'd gotten lost in. Rhaenyra nodded her head while serving herself a glass of water and taking a quick sip before settling the heavy glass down onto the wooden table. 

"I have asked for the hand of Cregan Starks"

Cerys tilted her head, waiting for the princess to finish her speech. 

"For you"

her eyes widened, and she knew that if she'd been holding the glass cup, it would have shattered down onto the floor. 

"I know you aren't familiar with them, but it would help you"

Rhaenyra reassured, hinting that her title as a bastard hadn't been forgotten. 

"I told you I didn't want to claim Harrenhal--I am a bastard-"

Cerys reminded her frantically, feeling her hands tremble against her gown. 

"You are a Strong. Your brother would want this-"

"He's not here, Rhaenyra"

She interjected, realizing she had interrupted a princess. Cerys lowered her gaze in forgiveness. 

"I wouldn't know what my brother would want because he was killed,"

Cerys spoke out, her voice breaking, tears welling in her eyes.

"What about what I want?"

Her tears streamed quickly down her face. While the princess attempted to comfort her, Cerys shook her head, refusing her affection. 

"Please, do not pity me."

her voice broke between tears while she wiped them away. The taste of salt reached onto her lips. 

"I was your age when I married Leanor," 

Rhaenyra whispered, her voice gentle and calm as she brushed her fingers against the girl's cheek. 

"I did not desire to be married to him--but alas, it was my duty to the realm." 

Rhaenyra's voice stopped, brushing a curl behind Cery's ear. 

"You are a strong, Cerys. That will not change."

Rhaenyra cupped her face to allow her to meet her gaze.