House of Ashes | Aemond Targaryen

Ten

Chapter ten

Both Vaiana and Baela walked through the corridors of the Red Keep, their arms linked together as they moved with an easy grace.

"Did you hear what Lady Rosby said about Lady Staunton's new gown?" Baela asked, her voice light with amusement.

Vaiana quietly chuckled. "Oh, you mean the one that makes her look like she's wrapped in a tapestry? Yes, I heard. She said it was more suited for draping a window than a lady's figure."

They both burst into laughter, their mirth drawing a few curious glances from passing servants. As they approached the dining hall, the sounds of their gossip faded into a more subdued, polite conversation.

As soon as they entered the grand hall, still smiling, Vaiana's gaze swept the room. She immediately spotted Aegon and Aemond deep in conversation by the fireplace. Aemond's piercing gaze met hers, and for a moment, the world seemed to still.

Aegon, noticing his brother's distraction, turned to see what had caught his attention and smirked when he saw Vaiana.

Vaiana, however, paid them no mind and steered Baela towards where Rhaena stood. "Rhaena," Vaiana greeted with a bright smile, her previous unease momentarily forgotten.

Rhaena returned the smile warmly. "Vaiana. It's good to see you."

The three girls engaged in lighthearted conversation. The air was filled with the scent of roasted meats and fresh bread.

Suddenly, the grand doors opened, and the guards entered carrying King Viserys on his chair. His face was a mask of pain, every movement clearly agony. The hall fell silent as everyone rose to their feet, watching with a mixture of respect and pity.

Once Viserys was carefully placed at the head of the table, he raised a trembling hand, signaling for everyone to be seated. Vaiana found her place next to her brother Jace, who gave her a supportive smile as they both sat down.

"How have you been, sister?" Jace asked, his tone soft.

Vaiana returned the smile, grateful for his presence. "It's been a trying day, but seeing you all here brings some comfort."

The dining hall fell silent, anticipation thick in the air as everyone turned their attention to Viserys. The king, panting heavily, gathered his strength to speak.

"How good it is... to see you all tonight... together," he said, his voice a strained whisper as he glanced around the table at his family.

Vaiana looked at her grandsire with a sympathetic smile, her heart aching at the sight of his suffering. Despite the pain, he was determined to unite his family.

Alicent, seated beside Viserys, placed a gentle hand on his shoulder. "Prayer before we begin?" she suggested softly.

Viserys nodded, his weary eyes closing briefly. "Yes."

Vaiana, unfamiliar with this ritual, looked around, confused. She noticed everyone holding hands and slowly followed suit, still puzzled. Her gaze fell on Daemon, who looked utterly amused by the entire proceeding. The sight nearly made her chuckle, but she bit her lip to hold it back.

Alicent began the prayer, her voice steady and composed. "May the Mother smile down on this gathering with love. May the Smith mend the bonds that have been broken for far too long. And to Vaemond Velaryon, may the gods give him rest."

Daemon's smile widened, barely able to contain his laughter as he glanced at the ceiling. Vaiana, on the other hand, couldn't contain her smile so she quickly put the cup of wine to her mouth to hide it.