Sister's Keeper

Disclaimer: I do not own Game of Thrones

Chapter 110: The Coronation.

Alysanne's POV

I woke before the sun had risen. I lay in bed watching my husband sleep, not sure what to think about for today. So many emotions were whirling inside my head, yet it didn't feel right. Today was the coronation. And though many allies, friends, and guests will be attending, many will not. The people who believed in me and made the sacrifice in either the journey from Exile, the Long Night, and the ultimate war.

The family I knew long ago as a child was gone. My Father- King Aerys II, mother- Queen Rhaella, brother Rhaegar and Elia, Rhaenys, and Aegon. But the Usurpers Rebellion took them away.

My second father, Ser Willem Darry, chose exile to raise Viserys, Daenerys, and me in the five years of peace in Braavos. He ensured we were safe and prepared us for a possible return to Westeros. But an illness took him away.

Then Viserys…despite all he has done to me in my adolescent years, he was once my brother. The boy I missed and the husband I despised. His death brought me out of my shell and ready myself into the person who I have become. Although the golden crown melted on his head might be too much.

Drogo. The brother-in-law had me on my feet with caution in the beginning and trusting in the end. The mighty Khal Drogo negotiated a marital alliance to wed Daenerys for his Dothraki Army when…no…more like if the time comes for Viserys to become king. But he was poisoned by a witch.

Rhaego. My nephew, who I held as a stillborn.

Irri and Rakharo. The two Dothraki members in the Khalasar who I trusted and befriended with. Rakharo was slain for being a bloodrider to his Khaleesi. And Irri, murdered and betrayed by Doreah as she tried to protect the dragons.

The many Unsullied who died in my campaign to abolish slavery.

Ser Barristan, the third man who became a father to me. He guided me through a hard time mentally and emotionally. He trained me in how to use a sword and how to use justice if not mercy. Who wanted me to be the Queen that the world deserves and to be happy all the same time? Only for him to die on the battlefield to save Daenerys in the Long Night.

Aggo, a loyal bloodrider, perished in the Long Night.

The many Dothraki bloodriders who fought the Wights.

And lastly, Daenerys. My sweet sister. The one I vowed to protect by being her keeper. A sacred vow I made when I was four years old. Being more than just her sister, but also her mother. For I kept her close and protected her to the best of my abilities until Viserys married her off. Even then, I was still protecting her until she grew up and protected me. We were the only ones who had each other, we were so close, yet we were pulling apart as our paths started to take us in separate directions. Daenerys would have done wonders in the world…if only Cersei Lannister and the Mountain hadn't executed her to spite me.

I took a deep breath, carefully climbed out of bed, and made my way over to the vanity where a jewelry box was. Quietly I opened the lid and collected the ring before going over to the fireplace sitting down near the dragon eggs. I stared at the ring that was carved into a lily with a pearl in the center. This was one of two rings, as the twin has melted away with Daenerys when cremated. A part of me hopes she is still wearing the ring in the afterlife. Either she found eternal peace riding in the Night Lands alongside Drogo and Rhaego or in the golden halls of the Father.

My eyes watered as a few tears fell. I mourned and wailed just after her murder, and after a few days, I had been numb. Trying to suppress the emotions to appear strong, yet I was falling apart inside. My feelings were everywhere, from being pregnant to the war and Daenerys's death. I mainly shut down and suppressed everything to move forward. Although I kept talking about Daenerys wanting justice…the emotions were locked in a small box as I held a mask.

Now Daenerys's killers are dead; I slowly open the box. I can not grieve properly, only behind closed doors. I am soon to be Queen of Westeros of the six kingdoms. One of the three active rulers besides Jon Snow and Yara Greyjoy. And to that, I must keep wearing the mask to secure the nation. As much as I want to run away and hide. Almost like living in the Veil as Alys Mormont.

Alys Mormont managed to grieve and start over.

Then again, she was a mere idea of an illusion I held in my mind.

A woman who had a family: a husband and son lived in peace in Braavos.

And here I was, alive with a husband and a child growing in my belly.

The only difference is that Alys lost her sister in childbirth while mine was murdered. Alys had given up everything for her happiness while I had mine taken away and fought to get it back. We may have found love in the same man, but we live in different worlds. She was not living in a game. Every second I am in a game, and one wrong move could have me killed.

I entered the game the moment Viserys died without thinking about it. It wasn't until Qarth did I started playing the game with Daenerys by my side. And to win, I have to lose. And I lost so many people who should not have fallen. Therefore, I lost my sister.

I took a few deep breaths trying to regain my composure. As I put on the ring on my right ring finger. I stared at both hands seeing the wedding band Jorah gave me and the lily ring. And soon, another ring will be placed on my left index finger to signify my act of leadership as High Queen of Westeros.

I could imagine Daenerys now, as she sat down next to me, taking my hands and bringing them close together. She would smile as her violet eyes shimmered with joy as the words left her lips.

"We did it. We finally got our home back."

Home.

All this was for home.

Until I had visions of the Long Night and being mentored by Visenya.

And though I had lived in the Red Keep for three years. For some reason, this was not my home. I've learned home is not a place but the people. Even though I lost my sister, I still have my husband.

A pair of arms wrapped around me as their hands rested on my somewhat swollen belly. A pair of lips pressed against my neck as a slight beard scraped along the skin. I closed my eyes and sighed, cherishing this peaceful moment. Jorah took a deep breath, smelling the faint fragrance of my perfume.

"You're up early," Jorah murmured, sleep in his voice.

"I couldn't sleep," I mused.

"Nervous?" he guessed.

"And other things," I added sadly, staring at the lily ring.

Jorah glanced over my shoulder as he stared at the ring. He mentioned in his search for Daenerys after the attack of the Daznak Pit, he found Daenerys's ring in the Great Grass Sea. He took a deep breath; he knew mourning would be hidden behind closed doors. We are leaders now, and we can not appear weak. As I was soon to be High Queen.

"You know, it's not too late to run away," Jorah suggested.

"I think it's a bit late for that," I muttered. "Besides, where would we go for how far we have come?"

Jorah sighed, knowing I had a fair point. We are too recognizable in Westeros and most of Essos. Followed by the dragons. Viserion will never leave me; he is always nearby even if I tell him to go away. Along with Drogon's behavior towards me. Probably a potential rider growing inside my womb. In the end, we have set this path and can not escape it until our death.

Jorah placed another kiss on my neck.

"When our child is grown enough, I shall take you to Bear Island," he murmured. "When we need to escape the madness."

"Bear Island?" I replied.

"I promised to show you a bear," he reminded me. "The closest you have is your marital cloak."

"I knew it," I try to playfully say.

It earned a small smile from Jorah. Yes, when our child is big enough for travel, we shall spend our holidays in Bear Island. I will not deny our children their northern roots. But most of all, their heritage of Bear Island. Our children will not be weak. They will be warriors, both sons, and daughters. I'll make sure our daughter will know how to wield a weapon. If we have a daughter, that is. She will not be vulnerable as I was.

I sighed, resting my head against him. Jorah secured his arms as we sat there watching the fire until it was time to prepare for the coronation.

.o0o.

When morning came, Missandei arrived with breakfast. She set a tray and went to get the preparation for the bath. Jorah and I ate in peace as I savored the warmth of a cup of tea. I can imagine our days like this. We will not be formal and live in separate rooms. Not like Robert Baratheon and Cersei Lannister. Not like my parents. As Jorah said about his parents sharing the same bed-chambers and company until his mother's passing, we will be close.

When the time came, Tyrion had arrived, and before any of us could react, he somehow convinced Jorah to get groomed up. How Tyrion did not grab Jorah's hand like a child to drag the stubborn bear will always amaze me. Jorah merely sighed as he gave me a kiss and left. Afterward, Missandei came, stating the bath was ready.

The bath was welcoming as I sat in the copper tub. Hot water at the ready from the springs. Although, I do miss the baths in Dragonstone. Anyway, I savor Missandei's delicate hands, for someone else will be replacing my dear friend when the child is born. Either way, I lay in the tub filled with oils and herbs as Missandei worked on washing my hair.

"Are you excited?" Missandei asked.

"And nervous," I added.

"Really?" she asked.

I nodded.

"You weren't nervous in Bay of Dragons," she noted.

"Well, I wasn't flaunting celebration and vanity," I grumbled.

Missandei chuckled. The coronation has been delayed long enough for the city to mourn and clean itself up. It will take time to repair itself because of winter. But Varys and Tyrion insist the faster I am crowned Queen, the quicker the nobles recognize me. Although, Varys states the smallfolk already see me as Queen. Maybe the ones in King's Landing. However, a city is small compared to a kingdom. Even with the Crownlands being the Capital Kingdom of Westeros, I still have six kingdoms to rule.

Once done bathing, Missandie helped me dry off and put my hair in a towel to quicken the drying process. I put on a thick towel to dry my body before getting my undergarments on as fast as possible. Despite the fireplace blazing, it was still cold from winter. Before entering the central apartment, I put on a robe to see Lady Olenna there, dressed in her formal attire. I was surprised as she sat in a chair while two Tyrell servants carried in a chest.

"Your husband let me in," Lady Olenna explained, answering the question before it left my lips. "A smart man does not argue."

"Well, you do terrify many," I stated.

The Queen of Thorns smirked, "As long as I live, I shall put men in their places."

I snorted, walking over to sit in the other chair while Lady Olenna told her servants to leave. The men nodded, still keeping their heads down for how indisposed I was. I glance at the ornate chest. Noting the polished wood that has been carved with gold and gems entwined in it.

"What's this?" I asked.

"A gift," Lady Olenna answered bluntly. "One that I hope you wear today. You are a Queen and therefore must show it."

Curious, I got up and went over to the chest to open it. I trust Lady Olenna to not add a creature inside to attack or a poisonous animal. Therefore, I opened the lid and removed the silk to see it was a dress. My eyes widened, and I stared at Lady Olenna in shock. The elderly woman nodded as I stared at the elaborate details. The dress was made out of many layers of different fabrics in shades of gold. The main part of the dress was velvet with golden crochet metallic fibers all over it as pearls were connecting it. It was an empire waist gown to which I am thankful, along with a slight off the shoulders. On the bust was a solid gold applique of a dragon in flight. Lifting the dress more, noting its weight, which Missandei helped reveal the sleeves to be bell-shaped.

"Lady Olenna," I whispered.

"I remember a few queens wearing gowns like these," Lady Olenna said. "Your great grandmother Betha Blackwood wore a gown just like that. And so did your grandmother during her coronation."

I nodded, staring at the gown. Yet, I did not feel confident. I have worn elaborate dresses, yet I did not feel comfortable in them. In Qarth and Meereen where I had to wear the attire to gain favor. And when I wore my own clothing, it was still adjusted to the climate. Now I held a dress that would dignify me as a true queen and not a princess trying to act like a queen.

"Now, we better get you ready," Lady Olenna said.

I nodded.

The rest of the day has been preparing for the coronation. As my hair dries, Missandei combed it straight with two braids and tied them in the back. Next are the fragrances of lavender, along with other scents. Then get dressed and put on the gown.

There were many layers in wearing the attire Lady Olenna provided. I put on the undergarments, the chemise, the modified corset, the golden silk dress, and finally, the velvet dress with the metallic crochet. Missandie helped me put on my mother's necklace while I put on the rings. There were no shoes, for when a woman is anointed as Queen, her feet must be bare to connect with the earth. After a few adjustments, a cloak was placed on my shoulder. One that was a combination of Targaryen and Mormont.

I took a deep breath as I stared at Missandei, who secured the fastings. She gave a smile as she placed her hands on my shoulder.

"Now... it's time," Missandei murmured. "You will be the most valued queen in all of Westeros."

"Only time will tell," I replied back.

She nodded as we made our way out of the apartment to the main grounds of Maegor's Holdfast. Standing center was Grey Worm and Jorah. Jorah stood there, all groomed from head to toe. Dressed similar to our wedding night, his clothes a finer material yet modest to a northern. At that moment a cloak of bear trimmed fur hung on his shoulders. A clean-shaven smile at me as he offers me a hand. I accepted it.

"You look lovely, my queen," Jorah murmured.

I blushed slightly while he smiled.

"Shall we?" Jorah asked.

"Yes," I managed to answer as we made our way to the throne room.

As we walked through the many halls and corridors where the Unsullied stood guard at the ready, I could hear Visenya's voice whisper in my ear.

"Hold your head high, Alysanne. The gods have chosen you in this, and your ancestors and I will be with you every step of the way." Visenya murmured. "But now you are holding your husband's hand too tightly, and he might faint."

I glance at our hands to realize how tight my grip is. I am nervous, the same feeling I had in preparation for our union. But now, this coronation is to anoint me as Queen. I have led armies and a nation, but can I lead six of the seven kingdoms and create a stable legacy that will last a thousand years?

"Are you afraid?" Jorah murmured.

I chuckled softly, "As long as I have you."

Jorah stared into my eyes, "As you wish."

I took a deep breath, "Together."

"Together," he promised.

Squeezing his hand one more time, we made our way to the throne room. The doors opened as light shone through the glass windows. The chamber was filled with nobles and fellow allies.

Our eyes focused where destiny forever sealed us as the rulers of the southern kingdoms. My bare feet touch the cold stone of the marble as long-forgotten memories return. The walls are decorated in Targaryen banners. Once we reached the dais, Jorah squeezed my hand before letting me go. I glanced at him as he gave a reassuring nod, and I took my step. I turned around, facing the audience, as the front held Tyrion, Viserys, Jon, the Starks, the Tyrells, the Martells, and many more who aided in my pursuit for the Iron Throne.

I glanced around until staring at the gallery that was supposed to be empty, filled with the spirits of many Targaryen's. My eyes slightly widen in seeing my ancestors, but most of all visiting my family. Rhaegar stood with his family, alongside my mother, Queen Rhaella, who stood next to them proud. Daenerys was alongside them, holding Rhaego as Drogo placed a hand on her shoulder. Two individuals stood next to a column. There was Viserys who seemed disappointed and my Father. Although King Aerys did not look the same the last time I saw him, he was groomed with shame in his eyes.

Visenya stood close by with Rhaenys and Aegon along with their family. She appeared the proudest. As did many of the Targaryens from the past. Along with Ser Barristan and Ser Willem. The two knights who have protected me and became a father figure. Both men stood proudly. I took a deep breath, feeling the support from the past and the present.

The High Septon walked in front of me, presenting the crown. I gave Missandei control in designing the crown. The crown was made of silver, as the band of the crown was shaped like a dragon's tail, with gold melted into the scales while on the top was delicate, giving the illusion of dragon wings. Obsidian was in the center, while the frozen dragon's teeth were on each side of the dragon glass. Followed by minor cuts of rubies and amethyst. I was surprised and gave a glance at Missandei, who stood by Grey Worm. I gave her a nod in approval.

The High Septon walked around held the crown up high, giving the anointed speech:

"My lords and ladies of the court. We gather here today to witness the ascension of a new Queen. May the Warrior grant her courage and protect her in perilous times. May the Smith grant her strength that she might bear this heavy burden. And may the Crone, who knows the fate of all men, show her the path she must walk and guide her through the dark places that lie ahead. In the light of the Seven, I now proclaim Alysanne Jaehaera of the House Targaryen, First of Her Name, Queen of the Andals and the First Men and Lady of the Six Kingdoms." He placed the crown on my head. "Long may she reign!"

"Long may she reign," the audience repeated.

The High Septon offered me his hand, as I accepted helping me up. He guided me to the Iron Throne, allowing me to sit on my birthright. I took a deep breath, as a septon brought me my ring for power. It was the Targaryen ring as he placed on my left index finger.

Once secured of power, I stood up and gestured for Jorah to come forth. He did so, as a septon went with a velvet pillow holding Jorah's consort crown. One, I had a commission for him. It was a band made out of silver and golden woven to symbolize Bear Island's artwork, while at the center was a bear's head. A simple crown since my husband is not one for the finery.

Jorah knelt before me as I held the crown.

"Do you swear to serve and protect the realm?" I asked him loudly so everyone in the throne room could hear. "To stand by my side through thick and thin?"

"I shall," he promised.

I nodded and placed the crown on his head, "Then rise, King Jorah, Consort of Westeros."

He did so and stood next to me as everyone cheered.

When the ceremony was completed, I sat down on the Iron Throne as the lords and ladies gave their fealty to me. It was different compared to Meereen, yet I continued to remain strong. The first was my closest allies, as Tyrion and Varys gave their loyalty. I must admit without these two, I would have been lost despite the setbacks. They shall remain in my council for all they have done. Together we shall rule the Southern Kingdoms of Westeros and ensure our children and our legacy lives on. Soon the Martells came, though Quentyn helped his Father up the steps and bowed before me. I appreciated this for all we had lost in the rebellion, justice had been preserved. Then the Tyrells gave their fealty as I thanked them for all they have done, especially Lady Olenna.

When the Starks came up, they did not bow or give fealty for our agreement. I glance at Jon, who bowed his head, and Lady Sansa and Lady Arya giving a curt nod. As I bowed my head to Bran. In time we shall all gain each other's favors; even though we helped each other in both wars, the scars from the past linger.

Time continued that it felt like forever from Lords and Ladies I had never met until it was time to address the people. Jorah lent me his hand as we walked down the aisle to the main entrance of the Red Keep. In the courtyard, there were thousands of people cheering as they chanted,

"Long Live the Queen!"

I stared at Jorah, who nodded. I raised my hand to silence the crowd, it took some time, but the courtyard became silent.

"Citizens of Westeros, I am honored to have you here on this glorious day and thank you to all who came far and wide. I promise, as your Queen, I shall serve the people and the realm to the best of my ability. We all came from troubled times by the destruction of war and greed. However, I will try my best to not make the same mistake that my predecessors have done and bring our nation to a brighter future."

The crowd cheered as the dragons danced along the sky, breathing fire into the air yet away from the people. There was some hesitation from the public. Hopefully, one day, they will not be afraid of the dragons.

One day all will be right.

Hey all, sorry for the long wait. Work has been hectic and my laptop is stubborn. I hope you enjoy the chapter. Alysanne's dress is inspired by Queen Elizabeth's coronation dressed from the TV series "The White Queen."

Thanks for reading and please leave a review!