Chapter Text
„They weren’t lying, he is incredibly handsome“. Arwyn giggled as she peaked through the curtains of her room, spying on Lord Stark and Viserra.
„Do you think she likes him? She hasn’t really smiled once.“ Rhaenys sounded sceptical
„Viserra rarely smiles, I am sure that everything will turn out perfect.“
Rhaenys shakes her head disapprovingly „You read too much.“
„And you worry too much. He is nice and I will go to the north with her too make sure he stays that way.“
Rhaenys glanced over at her friend, who still peaked out of the window. The princess knew that if Lord Stark turned out differently than how he appeared right now there was nothing Arwyn could do but she chose not to comment on it.
She should be the one going to the north with her aunt but of course her father did not allow it, rather wanting her to stay in kingslanding and on dragonstone to learn and be prepared for her future as queen of the seven kingdoms. She would need to talk to Viserra later to make sure she was actually happy if she wasn’t she might just have to kill the warden of the north.
„We have been doing this a lot as of late.“ Edric started carefully.
„Do what walk in the gardens?“
„Well yes but I more meant the part where I talk and you give me short answers.“
She stopped abruptly. „I answer your questions.“ she said trying to defend herself.
„I know“ he let out a small laugh, she didn’t know why. Was he making fun of her? Was he amused by her? Why was he laughing?
„I feel that you are unhappy, I thought everything was good between the two of us, that we were starting to become friends.“
„Everything is good between us.“ she caught her hand fidgeting with the rings on her fingers. Why must he be so nice all the time.
„This situation just confuses me“ she tried to make him understand.
„It confuses you?“
„Yes that is what I just said, is it not?“ she huffed annoyed.
He chuckled again. „I forgot how short your fuse is, princess.“
„It is not short. I told you I need time.“
He took a step closer and took one of her hands in his, squeezing it gently and forcing her to stop her fidgeting. „I know but in all honesty I think it might help you to talk to me.“
She opened her mouth to say something.
„Ah ah those short answer do not count.“
„Well then I guess there is nothing we can say to each other“ she turned her face away from him. She didn’t want to look at him, she felt so incredibly guilty about how she was treating him. All Edric ever was treating her with respect and be kind and in return she acted like a horrid witch or and ungrateful brat as her parents like to call her.
A hand found it‘s way to her chin, gently cupping it between his fingers. Her Head was turned back around and then lifted so her violet eyes were forced to look in his green ones.
„I don’t believe you that for one second. I know there is more to you then you lead on and I know you have more to say then you do.“ he said, his voice gentle as ever.
She couldn’t answer. What does one even answer to something like this. Thy boys she used to fool around with never cared much for what she thought and they surly never touched or talked to her like this. It made sense Edric wasn’t some boy that would do anything for her attention. He was a man and like Baelon always said a real Man will not be impressed by the act she put on for those boys.
His hand left her chin and went to grab her Hand once more. „Come on.“ he said gently before leading her to a little bench. They sat down. Viserra folded her hands in her lab and stared straight ahead.
„Alright so here is what we are going to do. I will ask you something and you answer with more than just one word.“
She dared to glance over to him, raising her eyebrows while saying „fine ask ahead.“
„what is your favorite memory about Winterfell.“
She immediately wanted to answer but she stopped herself, when she really thought about it, she had a lot of fond memories about Winterfell more then she thought she would have. Usually she only thought about the cold snow the winter had caused and how angry she was because everyone had known about the engagement part from her. But their was also all the dinners she had with Edric and Lyanna, all the new games the children there had taught her, all the times Edric read to her the library, the way he read always made every more entertaining even when he was teaching her about the old gods a topic that was not really interesting to her previously.
After a long break she finally took a deep breath before speaking. „I would have to say, all the times you read to me and taught me about the north. The way you did it was comforting and fun. It definitely made me more comfortable being in Winterfell and being with you.“ the entire time she was speaking she looked down to her hands, only daring to look at him once she was finished. He smiled at her.
„Yes I liked that as well. There is a library here also isn’t it? We can go whenever you want. I haven’t been able to read for enjoyment for ages anyway.“
„You haven’t?“
„No. being the warden of the north and the Lors of Winterfell means the only thing I get to read is stuff regarding that.“ he shrugged
„Sounds like I won’t see you much.“
He smirked at that „oh do not worry, I shall make time for you and besides you will be busy as well.“
She hadn’t really thought about that. All the different responsibilities that came with being the Lady of Winterfell.
„I must admit I don’t know what it is a Lady does.“
Edric looked at her do a second a tad bit confused but he didn’t make a comment thankfully.
„Well you will organize celebrations or visits, has your mother not let you practice a bit.“
„I hardly ever speak to my mother“ she shrugged. She could see when the realization hit him and an awkward silence settled over them. Viserra had gotten so used to her Mother not being a part of her life she sometimes forgot how strange their relationship might seem to outsiders.
After some time he finally spoke again. „Well I am sure you are going to do marvelous and my Mother will always be there to help.“
A smile crossed her lip. She really missed Lyanna and exchanging letter was nothing compared to having breakfast with her every morning.
„What will you wear? When we are wed I mean?“ her voice was quite and unsure. She wanted to continue the conversation as easily as he started it but her words always seem to leave her when they talked and however simple it was to talk to anyone else in the red keep, talking to Edric was never simple.
A small chuckle left his mouth „My Mother had five seamstress work on my outfit. They made me a vest from some rich silver silk fabric adorned with intricate gold embroidery and some wolf and dragon patterns, Gold buttons and very elaborate cuffs and a belt“ he smirked, his voice imitating someone who knows much more about Fashion then he does.
„All that only to wear a white shirt underneath“ he added
„It doesn’t sound very northern.“
„My Mother thought it would be better that way, didn’t want me to stick out I assume.“
„You will stick out regardless of what you wear.“
„Why? Because I am so very handsome.“
She let out a loud laugh, a laugh that not many people have heard.
„It is very noticeable that you’re not from the south, that is what I meant.“ she said after she caught her breath.
„Good. Wouldn’t want to look like the Men around here anyway.“ he said very serious.
She bit her lower lip. She wanted to ask him a question but by his serious tone she couldn’t tell how he was gonna react. They were completely silent for a moment only hearing the faint sound of Birds in the background.
„Are you mad about what the King did?“ she then asked carefully, hoping he would understand where she was going.
„I do not believe in holding grudges but it leaves a sour taste in my mouth.“ Edric answered honestly.
That is where the two of them are different she thought. Viserra very much believed in holding a grudge and she was not quick to forgive or forget anything.
„I think we are being spied upon my Princess.“ Edric spoke, nodding his head to a nearby tree.
Viserra’s gaze followed his nod and from behind the tree she could see two silver heads peeking out. Immediately she began to smile.
„My dear sister and my devilish Nephew. You can come out now“
Daemon was the first to come out, his face carried a judgmental expression as he walked towards the pair. He looked Edric up and down before his gaze rested on his aunt.
„Do you not have any lessons today?“ Viserra couldn’t help but to smile.
„Those are boring.“ the young prince protested.
A chuckle left her, she used to think the same and looking back they still are. Her head tilted to look behind Daemon‘s frame, Gael was slowly mustering up her courage to approach and leave her hiding spot.
„I hope she is not afraid of me.“ Edric leaned in to whisper in her ear.
„Do not worry she is just a little shy, The Queen barley allows her to be a person.“ She whispered back dismissingly, it was the truth though The queen kept Gael so close the girl had become a mere extension of the Queen with no original thought or a trace of a personality. It made her happy to see she was breaking the rules a bit to go spying around with Daemon god‘s know she needs it.
Gael now stood behind Daemon her eyes sometimes daring to look past him.
„Come here little dove, it is alright I promise.“ Viserra tried to sound as gentle as possible as she extended her hand to the girl. Gael‘s hand slowly reached for her sisters, Viserra feared she might break her sisters bones when she held her to tight, that is how delicate the younger ones fingers were. Thank the gods Saera wasn’t here Gael surly would’ve been the next Daella.
Gael made slow tiny steps at first before hastily sitting down next to her older sister, clutching her arm tightly. Perhaps Gael was afraid of Edric after all, the girl made no attempt to look at the man that was to be her brother by law.
„Have you met Lord Stark, my Sweet?“
Gael shakes her head.
„That is why we came, everyone is talking about him. We wanted to see what he is like.“ Daemon interrupted, his arms were propped up at his sides as he looked Edric up and down.
Edric cleared his throat clearly amused by the younger once attempt to intimidate him. „My apologies my prince, I forgot to greet every member of the royal family it seems.“ he smirked.
Daemon mustered Edric again, before his face was graced with an approving expression. Viserra was sure Daemon wanted to say more, always so eager to be the strongest and impress other, but Edric paid him no mind. He had already gotten up and plucked a flower from one of the bushes, he kneeled down in front of Gael and lifted it to her face.
„I must especially apologize to you my lady.“ he smiled.
Gale looked up at her older sister. When Viserra was this age she had been in this situation a thousand times before and had spoken to countless suitors but poor Gael does not know a thing about communicating with people that aren’t family or her mothers ladies.
She squeezed the young girls hand and gave her a reassuring smile. „He will not bite you sweetling.“
Gael also nodded and put on her bravest face, her small hand captured the flower and she even managed to muster up the courage to hold eye contact while she said thank you.
„It is an honor to make your acquaintance, princess.“ A big smile formed on Gaels lips at his word, she looked to Daemon, her eyes getting big as she practically jumped in her seat.
They spend the rest of the day with the children, something Viserra was oddly thankful for, everytime she had no idea what to say Daemon interjected with a comment or a question to feel out Edric’s character.
At the evening supper Daemon excitedly talked about the encounter. She was glad her parents were to busy with something regarding the wedding supper is much more comfortable when it is just her, her brother‘s and sister and their children and partners. The other would never admit it but the king and Queen made having simple conversations awkward. Viserra often refrained from speaking at supper unless someone propped an answer out of her.
After Supper she went on an evening stroll with her dear aunt Jocelyn and Rhaenys. Her and Jocelyn walked arm in arm while Rhaenys impatiently switched from walking next to them to walking infront of them to walking behind them.
„Well? How was it with lord Stark?“ she finally asked.
„I already told you about that.“
„No you told us about how sweet he was to Gael and Daemon. How was he when you to were alone?“ a hint of annoyance lingered in Rhaenys‘s voice as she looked up at her aunt expectingly.
She hesitated for a moment before finally speaking „he was kind we held a good conversation.“ she smiled before adding „an honest conversation“
Rhaenys raised one of her eyebrows looking as if Viserra had told her the most shocking thing she had ever heard. „That is it?“ she eventually asked. Her daughters disappointed caused Jocelyn to laugh out loud. „Some times people do not require more then one honest conversation to forge a bond.“ she turned to Viserra. „Trust me this is a good sign.“ she smiled softly and gave Viserra’s arm a light squeeze of encouragement. It definitely did encourage her if she were to inquire anyone about healthy marriages it would be Jocelyn. Her and Aemon are the only married people she could think of who weren’t miserable.
The next few days passed faster then she had hoped. It felt like her Name days used to feel, the wait for them was excruciating and then they were over in what felt like seconds.
Seven days of celebration before the big day. All filled with various activities, balls and tourneys. Edric had won both tournaments held in their honor, despite having complaints about the stupidity behind such events beforehand. Both times he had named her the queen of love and beauty. Of course she had expected it but both times it happened she blushed like some imbecile little girl speaking to a boy for the first time. She had gifted Gael one of the crowns, she had eyed them so longingly and with how the Queen was cheltering who knew when she would ever get one.
Perhaps Baelon would now gift her some. For the last years he would always bestow the title on Viserra and now that she was leaving it would only be right for him to continue the tradition with little Gael, or perhaps could Daemon do it when he grows older. God’s know Viserys won’t.
But none of that mattered now.
Now all there was, was a feeling of pure dread making itself known in Viserra‘s stomach. She didn’t even know what she was dreading only that it kept her wide awake the day before her wedding.
She filled herself a Goblet with wine and drank it without the goblet ever leaving her mouth. First one then two and then a third one.
A very unladylike burp left her. The walls of her chamber started to feel suffocating.
She wrapped a soft blanket around herself and made her way through the castle. No notion of where to go she wandered around until she stood before Baelon‘s door.
Her hand slowly but surely knocked on the big wooden door. There was no reaction for several moments, it made sense she thought, he was probably asleep already and she should probably be as well.
Just as she was about to leave again the door opened.
He looked wide awake, at least she hadn’t woken him up. „Viserra? Is everything alright?“ his voice was filled with worry, immediately he stepped aside so she could enter.
She quickly hushed into his room, not trying to become intertwined in some scandal. After he closed the door behind her she finally spoke.
„Yes, yes do not worry. I merely couldn’t find sleep.“ she fidgeted with the blanket, she had wrapped around her shoulders.
An amused smile crossed his lips. „You are nervous about tomorrow’s ceremony.“
„What? No I am not!“ she protested which just caused him to laugh out loud. „I was once in your position you know that right?“ he teased.
„How does this stupid feeling go away?“ she asked desperately.
A knowing smile crossed Baelon‘s lips as he made his way toward a cabinet. He pulled out an unopened bottle of arbor red and waved it at her. They sat down at a small table and he filled up two goblets. „So, do you desire to talk about it?“ his voice was more serious now.
„I doubt that would help me. I talked about it with more people then I had wished too.“ she let out a heavy sigh before bringing the goblet to her lips, drowning the first of many glasses.
They talked for about an hour, nothing of importance simply little things to clear her mind. Unfortunately they did not seize their drinking the entire time even opening up One more bottle. She felt like a little girl, laughing at everything. Her older brother soon noticed her predicament. He drank the rest of her wine and helped her onto her wobbly feet.
Her hands gripped his tunic for support. „I thought you could handle wine.“ he teased. He brought her to his bed, sitting her down while he grabbed water from his nightstand, he handed it to her, her shaking hand quickly brought it to her mouth and drank it like it was her first time. „I thought you only had four glasses.“ he sounded more concerned now.
„I did“ she said feeling him staring down at her. „I might also have had a few more glasses before I came here.“ her words came out slurred but he understood everything, letting out an exhausted sigh. He helped get up from the bed and helped her walk towards the door. They did not make it far however, she grabbed his shoulders and let out a small whine before speaking. „Are you angry with me?“
He shook his head. „No I merely wished you had told me. Then I wouldn’t have let you drink.“ he said softly.
Her hands found his tunic again, gently resting on his chest. „You always take such good care of me.“ Her fingers grabbed the fabric of his clothing. „You could take care of me forever.“ her voice became a little pleading. „We can follow into Mothers and Fathers food steps, run away together and get married you could save me.“ desperately she clung to him, pulling him closer towards her. „They will only be mad at me, they could never hate you like they do me, you will face no consequences. Please Baelon.“ tears started streaming down her face. She did not care how pathetic she looked. He could save her and she was sure he would.
„Lord Stark is a good man.“ Baelon’s hands cupped her face, his thumbs whipped away the tears that streamed uncontrollably. „I had spies watch him for years now.“ she shook her head. „No brother you do not understand.“ she desperately started to fiddle with her nightgown. „Just look, one look and you’ll see.“ she mumbled more to herself. Just one look and he would realize that she was better than any other woman in this world even better than Alyssa. All he had to do was look.
But he did not look. He captured her nervous hands in his own. „Hush little dragonfly you deserve someone who loves you, not another woman’s old used up goods.“ her red face looked up at him. „You are not used up old goods.“ she sniffled.
„Yes I am, you deserve more than anything I could ever give you.“ They room grew silent, the only thing that could be heard were Viserra’s little sobs. He pulled he into a hug, his hand gently drawing circles along her back. She did not reciprocate the gesture, her hands hang loosely on her sides while she head rested on his chest.
„When I die in childbirth, it will be your fault.“ her voice was quiet and filled with bitterness. He did not answer but she felt him tensing up slightly. They stayed like that for a few moments before he gently placed a kiss on her head and lifted her up. His strong arms carried her through the castle right into her bed. He pulled the covers over her small body and sat down on a chair he pulled himself up. Viserra had no clue how long he sat there for but when she woke up he was gone.
The morning greeted her with far to bright sunlight shining directly onto her face. A groan left her mouth as her hand wandered to her pulsing temple. What happened last night? She thought but then it all came back to her. Gods what had she done? Viserra practically sprung out her bed causing serval pillows to fall onto the floor. She didn’t have much time. The wedding ceremony in the sept was not until later that day but the final preparations could start any moment. Her fast movement caused a wave of dizziness through her. Thank the gods she managed to pull out her chamber pot before releasing the contents of her stomach. Coughing she rested her back against the wall. After a few moments her breath finally began to slow down and the coughing stopped. She pulled herself up at a shelve and walked over to a table positioned on the other side of her room. She had to grab several pieces of furniture for support before she finally made it.
With another groan she let herself fall onto the chair and gathered all her strength to fill herself a goblet with water. Like a woman possessed she gulped down the entire thing in a matter of seconds and soon enough she had drunk the entire pitcher. Viserra let herself fall back into the chair and slumped together. Today was going to be dreadful.
Soon enough her chambers were filled with maids, various Ladies, her aunt Jocelyn and worst of all her Mother, the most judgmental woman she knew is she were to find out what activities viserra had pursued she would shake her head disapprovingly and make an annoying tsk sound before holding a long speech of how disgraceful her behavior is for a princess. No doubt she would look down upon her the entire time.
Viserra managed to adorn herself with the strongest perfume she owned before everyone bursted into her chamber like possessed birds.
She did not dare to speak to any of them when they were to close terrified that someone would find the evidence of her carelessness from last night in her breath. It made no sense really she almost never drank and on the few occasions she did it was never much. Not once has she lost her composure in such a manner and her headache was a harsh reminder to never let it happen again.
There was nothing enjoyable about having her hair and makeup done. The entire process she sat still petrified someone would notice a smell or worse say something but if someone noticed they kept their mouth shut thank the gods. Her silence was perceived as nervousness something the older ladies found a bit to amusing in her opinion. The only person that did not make her want to scream out loud was Jocelyn, like always she was the rock she could lean on without fear of judgement. Her aunt held her hand the entire time and had a maid bring her something to eat and drink. She knew something in the way she looked at her made it clear but there was no judgement no disappointment in her eyes just understanding.
The maids wove her hair into a gorgeous, intricate braid that gathered at the back into a soft, coiled crown. It was dotted with tiny pearls, that reminded her of dewdrops caught in moonlight.
Two crystal and pearl bands sat across the crown of her head and just above the bun, a little gold and pearl comb sat like a tiny tiara. Every piece shimmered when it was hit by the sunlight. The rest of her hair fell in long, loose waves down her back.
Viserra could not deny how beautiful it looked, her mother had chosen it and despite all the feeling’s she felt towards her viserra could not deny that she did have in fact a talent for such things.
The gown could only be described as a masterpiece, crafted from ivory silk that shimmered like moonlight on still water. It had a square neckline that edged in delicate lace and draped with rows of luminous pearls. Golden embroidery traced intricate patterns across the front, swirling into motifs of vines and blossoms and in between were wolfs and dragons each thread had been done with such care it was more impressive then any other gown she had ever worn.
The sleeves puffed and paneled, adorned with cascades of pearls and tiny, gold-framed crystal droplets that swayed gently with every movement. the skirt flowed outward it was made of so many different layers which felt heavy on her frame.
Viserra could not refrain from staring at herself in wonder she had left all of the decisions for other people having had no interest in this whole ordeal and now she looked absolutely breathtaking. She knew she was beautiful the dress however brought out all of her features and highlighted them even more. Now she knew how Men felt when they looked at her.
The rest of the day was a blur although Viserra didn’t know if it was because of the consequences of last night’s actions or because it all just happened really fast. But here it was the moment no girl in this world dreams off except when she is having a nightmare.
Her and the King stood before the door of the sept. A part of her was trying to figure out how she even got there. Her mind was screaming at her to run away, this was her last chance her father could never catch up to her in his old age. At the same time a tiny voice in her head also told her there was no reason to be scared that everything would turn out alright. The voice was old, manly and frail and then she realized the voice was not in her head it was here in the actual world standing next to her. It was her father.
She looked up at him. He had his long beard trimmed for the occasion, he was dressed opulent, every detail reminded one that he was a Targaryen, as if one would ever forget. Was he trying to prove something to the northerners, to Edric was there still so much bitterness over what happened many years ago regarding Alaric starks brother?
She shook her head slightly. Her mind couldn’t focus. With all her strength she spoke. „I know your grace.“
„Do you? I must admit my dear you do not give anyone such an impression.“ his voice was as patronizing as ever. She turned her head again focusing on the wooden door and trying to tune out her throbbing head.
„You are shaking as if you were a leaf, sweet daughter.“
„I am well.“ she said dryly.
„Yes, yes that is what you always say.“
She turned her head to the side again, a tad to fast for her head, she tried to ignore it. She hated his tone of voice it implied her indifference was directed at all of her family, that it came about because she is just some stupid young thing that should not be trusted to make her own decisions. But her indifference was not directed to everyone. She loved her family. If anything in her life was up to her she would stay with them forever. But nothing was ever hers to decide when it regarded her life, and he chose it to be that way, he made her indifferent towards him. It was all his fault because the truth was he had been the one to be indifferent first, she had loved him and he had never cared.
She wanted to scream in his face, curse him to all seven hells. She did not. He would never understand. Never hold himself accountable and never apologize and certainly never love her so what could screaming do but show him that he was right, that she truly is just some stupid little girl who should never be trusted to make decisions. She drew a deep breath and turned her head away again.
She felt his eyes burning on her skin, those judgmental eyes.
„You remind me so much of my dear late sister.“
His words took a long time to register in her mind. His late sister? It dawned on her who he meant, her aunt Rhaena. Another woman in her family that had suffered. Another woman he stole from and mistreated.
She counted them in her head. Rhaena, Aerea, Jocelyn, Daenerys, Maegelle, Daella, Saera and herself. She had no doubt that Rhaenys and Gael would also soon join them.
„How?“ she cursed herself, she did not want to ask him she did not even want to talk to him.
„In character you resemble her.“ He chose his word careful. Why? Did he think she would take offense? Or was he trying to once again infuriate her?
„Was she also indifferent towards you?“ She hoped it hurt his feelings. He deserves to feel hurt.
A weird expression settled on his face.
„Sweet Child you are not indifferent you are filled with Hate.“
As if planned the big heavy doors of the sept swung open. Confused she faced the the front and let her feet carry her.
Her father walked her down the aisle, the old king held her arm so tight she wondered if he thought she would try to escape. In truth Viserra would love to escape this torture but she couldn’t she had promised Baelon to give marriage a chance and she would try to honor that promise.
Sooner than she had hoped they were at the front. Panic consumed her entire body. Frightened she looked through the crowd of people. When had they even arrived? She thought back to last couple of days of celebrations but she couldn’t remember anything anymore. Her head began to throb even more, her eyes landing on Jocelyn and Aemon who both gave her encouraging smiles, giving her the strength to release her fathers arm and walk the last meter to stand beside her future husband.
She listened to the septon. She repeated the words after him. She did as she was told.
She was a good daughter.
Edric stood before her his green eyes calmed her, they were familiar and steady so she only focused on them.
But the burn of her father's gaze on her back was impossible to endure, and she was fidgety and twitchy.
The fabric felt oppressive, the laces suffocated her, and she wanted nothing more than to run away and hide.
Edric wrapped a grey cloak around her shoulders, it had beautiful beaded silver wolfs implemented on it. After the cloak was secure he gently rested his hands on her cheek and kissed her. The kiss was not hungry or lustful it was soft and considerate. Her first ever kiss although she was sure no one would believe her. It felt nice, warm and comforting for a moment she forgot how many people were watching for a moment she was simply a girl receiving her first kiss. There lips parted however his hands stayed on her face, his thumb gently stroked her left cheek as he whispered. „This was hell.“ She laughed and so did he, satisfied that no one but them would ever no why they did.
A big banquet followed, viserra found herself fortunate her and Edric sat at a table alone, with everyone else sitting at separate tables in front of their own, even her parents weren’t seated to be the center of attention. There was no need for false pleasantries with Lords and Lady’s form other houses. The newly wedded couple could enjoy their food all alone, only talking amongst themselves. Edric was a tad annoyed that some of his favorite meals weren’t present another dig from her father she was sure of it. They started their special day supper After Edric had found something that was almost as good as his beloved pie from home that viserra hadn’t caught the name of it was stuffed to bursting with carrots, onions, turnips, parsnips, mushrooms, and chunks of seasoned pork swimming in a savory brown gravy.
„I promise you princess it is the best pie you shall ever eat“ he had claimed with unmatched enthusiasm. She couldn’t help but laugh as he went on and on about how each ingredient matched the other one and what a perfect meal it would have been for today. „Well perhaps we should eat some when we arrive in Winterfell.“
„Yes! But be warned you shall never desire anything else Princess.“
She shook her head slightly „Now that we are united in front of the gods I don’t see the need for you to still be so formal.“
He nodded his head eagerly „You are right. There is no longer a need for titles.“
After the banquet concluded it unfortunately was time to dance under normal circumstances she might have enjoyed this part of the celebration the most but tonight her head felt like a ship in uneasy water, the slightest motion still made her dizzy and her head pulsed terribly. She hated wine.
Edric who had claimed to be an untalented dancer swung her around the dance floor as if the gods solely created him for this very purpose. Her fingers clinched around his silver tunic and light green silvery coat that draped over one side of his shoulders that was held by a silver chain that alternated between wolves and dragon heads. She wanted to complement the intricate work but feared that a soon as she opened her mouth she’d puke again.
Her head instinctively rested against his chest and his tentative hand found the back of her head. „Viserra? Are you well?“ his voice was quiet and she almost missed it over the loud music. She took a deep breath, she felt Edric stopping his dance movements and instead of leading her in dance he gently lead her off the floor to the sides, one of his hands gently placed on the small of her back. She closed her eyes shakily exhaling. „Viserra what is it?“ his voice sounded slightly panicked. His hand left her body, instead grabbing a goblet with water. She drowned the liquid in one go, closed her eyes again and took some more deep breath before finally reopening her eyes and looking at Edric‘s panicked expression. A small apologetic smile appeared on her lips. „I drank a little wine last night.“ she said quietly. He stared at her for a moment before barking out a laugh „you sure it was just a little?“ She also had to laugh. Their attention snapped towards a few nobles who had observed their interaction. One of them she recognized her smile immediately faltering as her eyes caught the slimey old man with his yellow eyes and fat fingers. Lord Theomore Manderly. Nothing about him has changed only his face was more wrinkled now than it had been years ago. He had bits of food stuck in his long unkept beard and his fat fingers were greasy, he licked one of them with his weirdly long tongue that had a thick white coating and had black hairs growing out of it. His appearance promptly caused puke to rise up her throat again. She quickly looked to the ground as Edric talked to the men who were seemingly all northern. He blamed his terrible dancing for her dizziness and they all laughed. Once she had calmed down and had taken several deep breaths she dared to look up once more, although she immediately looked into another direction so her eyesight would not be assaulted again.
As the men talked about hunting and beer and women her eyes darted between them, analyzing them. One had thousands white suns embroidered onto his surcoat, a Karstark. Another one who appeared to be close in age to her wore a green doblet with bear embroidered on the shoulders. Her eyes quickly went past Lord Manderly only to find a timid young girl, younger then her next to him, his stubby fat arm tight wrapped around her tiny frail frame. Of course he had gotten himself a fifth wife. She wondered if he took pleasure in destroying women’s life, four wives dead. Would he send this one into the arms of the stranger as well or would she be lucky enough to outlive him and his hairy tongue. One could only hope she would.
She looked up at her husband who was engaged in a polite conversation with his fellow lords. He noticed her and excused them before leading her away.
„I’m sorry about that“ he said softly. „do you feel better.“
„Yes I do thank you to be honest I am just a little embarrassed.“
Her smiled. „There is no need for that I assure. I myself have been in much worse states.“
She smiled as well. „I suppose for men that is more common.“
„Probably.“
A comfortable silence settled over them as they walked at the side of the dance floor. She saw the door leading out of the room and unknowingly a smile formed on her lips. „I do not wish to be here. Let’s leave.“ she said with an enthusiasm that was completely new to her.
„As lovely as that sounds. I am sure people will notice“ he said.
she looked around. Most people were either engaged in conversation or busy spinning around dance floor to notice them and they all seemed rather intoxicated, a sly smile formed on her lips. „no one has noticed us yet if we leave now they shall not know.“
He looked around as well before nodding „Alright.“
They grabbed each other by the hand carefully maneuvering towards the door. They quickly hushed past the guards before starting to run, holding in their giggles like they did when they were younger, when they both snuck out of bed into the library, staying up longer then what was proper.
They stopped their escape in the palace garden sitting down on the little bench they had sat on just days before. They were both panting while they enjoyed the beautiful clear sky that showed one of the gods most beautiful creations the stars. It had been a long time since they were so bright and clear and not covered by clouds. Their hands were still connected and neither made an attempt to change that. They fell silent, their panting concluded and they listened to the sounds of the animals that only came about at night, the rustling leaves that were caused by the nighttime breeze and the muffled music still playing in the great hall of the red keep. Viserra had been annoyed when they left the sept for the red keep, to continue the celebrations. She would have rather been alone. Now she was happy about how the festivities had been planned. Now she could sit here with her husband and enjoy the beautiful night sky.
„So beautiful.“ he heard his soft voice next to her.
„Yes they are.“ she sighed.
He chuckled „perhaps though I must admit I was not speaking of the stars.“
She turned her head to look at him, his eyes were solely fixated on her. Had he been looking at her the entire time? Had she been so consumed by the stars while all he saw was her? She felt flustered and her cheeks began to burn.
He smiled. „Although You are like the stars in some aspect. So mesmerizingly beautiful and mysterious.“
„Well that is me the beautiful one“ she sighed.
„Being beautiful does not exclude other traits. You are also funny and witty, confident but also vulnerable, kind and Charming.“
She smiled softly. „Most people do not see it that way.“
„Most people are stupid and stupidity can be used to one’s advantage.“ he winked.
„Is that something you do? Use others people stupidity for your own benefit?“ she asked, he had not seem to be such a person to her.
„When I need to. Do you not?“
She supposed she did, promising foolish young boys a kiss if they dare to sneak into the dragon pit and touch one of the mighty beasts it houses, probably did count as taken advantage of their stupidity. She did it for her own entertainment, not for any sort of gain although that probably just made it worse. She shrugged. „I suppose it had happened on occasion.“
He chuckled. „Perhaps your Mother was right, we might be truly made for one another.“
„Is that what she said?“
„Yes.“
She had to laugh at that, her Mother and her obsession with matchmaking. She prided herself with being excellent at it but if you asked Viserra, her Mother only ever had luck when a couple she made succeeded. ‚There was a time I considered a marriage between you and Lord Manderly, but Aemon hadn’t thought it was a good match although I still think it would work.‘ She was ten and four when her Mother had said those words, their visit to the north was two years ago at that point and viserra had made the grave mistake to share her fears about marriage with her Mother, who would have sold her to a man older then her father if Aemon had not put that idea aside immediately.
„You do not believe in her skill?“ Edric asked, following her bitter laughter.
„She has no skill.“
„From what I heard everyone she paired together was quite happy. Your Brother Baelon and your sister Alyssa and your sister Daella and-„
„I don’t think Daella was happy I think she was told to be happy and stupid as she was she believed it the same will happen to Gael if the Queen ever lets her be her own person“
Viserra could recognize the monoton voice anywhere despite almost never hearing it. She turned around with a smirk. Vaegon had the same unreadable expression on his face that he had ever since Viserra could remember. Edric who was quite stunned at Vaegons sudden appearance slowly pulled himself together again.
„I was told to come and find the two of you.“
„You? Why?“
Her answer was a long blank stare.
„Well are you?“ she said annoyed.
„No, if father wants the two of you back inside he can do it himself. This is not my responsibility.“ he said with a snear.
„Father send you?“
He let out a deep sigh and looked at her as if she was the most incompetent and stupidest human in the world.
„is that not what I had just said, sister?“
She rolled her eyes. Every time she talked to Vaegon she misses Alyssa she would not have hesitated to put him in his place.
„When your intention was to not do as he said why are you here?“
„My first thought was to look places no one would go if they didn’t want to be found but then I immediately found you.“
Vaegon smirked after he saw the annoyance on Viserra‘s face.
„Well I will leave you be now.“ he made a small pause. „But I meant what I said. The two of you got lucky“ he turned to Edric. „And trust me my Lord, it is one too good to be hers.“ with that he left and disappeared into the darkness, not back into the redkeep he would never willingly return to such festivities that was one of the few things she knew about her older brother.
Edric chuckled. „I like him much more then the other two.“
„You’re not serious?“ she asked shocked
„Oh I am“
She shook her head and laughed „I suppose he is the smartest of us all. He left young and lives his life the way he desires far away from this place.“
„Fleaing palace life huh?“
She shook her head again, more serious this time. „No not palace life“ There were two reasons any Targaryen prince or princess would leave the red keep, at least those who did not have the fortune to be their parents favorites that is. And those two reasons were the King and Queen themselves. She sometimes wondered if the gods flipped a coin each time her mother gave birth, therefore deciding by pure luck if the new babe was allowed to know what it felt like to be loved. Aemon, Baelon, Alyssa, Maegelle and Gael had been lucky, so were Aegon and Daenerys she decided. Saera and Daella had at least one parent that cared about them at one point. Only Viserra had been resented since the very beginning and Vaegon well Vaegon was a mystery but she liked to think he understood how she felt.
She rested her head on Edric‘s shoulder perhaps it was good she was going to the north, perhaps that was exactly what she needed, why was she so hung up about wanting to stay anyway? Her siblings could visit, Arwyn would come with her and most importantly Edric was there and despite her fears of what was to come, Edric was the only person she wanted by her side through all of it. Yesterday night she had gotten drunk and let her fear consume her tonight she was calm and happy.