From Ashes to a New Beginning. Aemond Targaryen

𝟮𝟱. 𝗠𝘆 𝗯𝗲𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿.

Perspective of Aelyssa. 

After the banquet, the Prince of Pentos withdrew with his relatives, leaving us in the luxurious residence. Laena barely managed to conceal her disdain for my father's intentions, who seems inclined to accept Prince Reggio's offer. The proposal is to use our family merely as instruments of war against the Triarchy. Once again, my father appears willing to fight for glory and riches, not caring about leaving us behind in the process.

I do not agree with this decision. 

Although I know my opinion carries little weight in these matters, I felt I had to express my discontent. My father had abandoned me when I was just a baby to fight in the Stepstones and he was absent for three long summers. If he were to plunge back into that maelstrom now, there is no telling how long we would be separated.

I could not remain silent, so I decided to search the mansion for him to have a serious conversation. The rooms, illuminated by chandeliers and stone fireplaces, cast a warm light while also creating unsettling shadows. Fortunately, I had overcome my fear of the dark long ago and I felt a sense of relief when I found Prissy just a few steps away from me.

"Prissy" I call out as I approach hurriedly, knowing she always has the information I need. "Have you seen my father?"

"He's upstairs in the study with Lady Baela. He's teaching her Valyrian" she responds confidently. I thank her with a nod and a smile.

"Have they been at it for long?"

"I think... more than an hour" she says, tilting her head to one side. "It's late; do you want me to help you get ready for bed?"

My smile remains as I shake my head and reach out to gently pat my dear maid's arm. "I need to speak with my father. Don't worry about me; if you're tired, you can go rest."

At my words, Prissy slightly parts her lips and lowers her gaze to the floor, a gesture she always makes when she wants to agree but struggles with her sense of duty. I laugh at this and playfully ruffle her brown hair. "I know what you want; don't pretend to be stern with me."

"I should stay until you fall asleep; it's my job" she says with a ghostly smile.

"Your job is to obey me, and I'm ordering you to go to bed. I know today has been exhausting for you, after bringing all my belongings from the palace to this new residence."

At my insistence, Prissy sighs, rolling her eyes and finally nods with a broader smile. She gives a subtle bow, with a hint of humor in her gesture. "Alright, miss... good night."

"Rest well" I say with a smile and move in to kiss her cheek. Prissy flinches slightly at my gesture; as a former slave, she still hasn't fully adjusted to my familiar treatment, but she smiles and leaves calmly.

I begin to walk quickly toward the stone staircase that will lead me directly to the study. I take a deep breath, mentally preparing for the conversation I intend to have with my father. However, as I approach and ascend a few steps, I stop abruptly upon hearing voices from above.

My hand rests on the intricately carved stone banister and my eyes narrow as I discern what appears to be a heated argument between my stepmother and my father. This unexpected turn of events leaves me paralyzed, as their voices clearly reach my ears.

It seems the lesson to Baela has ended.

"A simple transaction" my father says in a grave tone. "We have dragons, they have gold."

My fingers tighten around the banister as I realize the truth, my father is genuinely considering accepting Prince Reggio's offer. After a few seconds, my stepmother's voice rings out with firmness.