Chapter 9
Aemma remained persistent, refused to leave her father's side in spite of everyone's insistence.
All of the conjoined efforts of the Grand-Maester, Otto Hightower and Lady Lyanne to convince her to exit the chamber before the King's wounds were bared for cleaning — met with failure. Then Viserys himself tried, pleading his little girl not to see him when he's so unsightly. Even that request was thrown out of the window. Aemma stayed firm on her decision, making it clear that nothing can get her to leave the room. Not even the King's command!
A look was exchanged between the adults as they wordlessly tried to come up with a solution.
Out of desperation, due to not finding other possible resolution Otto Hightower tried to exert force. Hoisting up the little girl in his arms he attempted to walk out, but Aemma bit into his hand so hard that her teeth tore into his flesh. Thus he ended up dropping her before he could even reach the door. And Aemma ran back to her father's side.
Lady Lyanne takes one look at Lord Hand's bleeding hand before signalling the nearest Page, who in turn dashed off and returned moments later with a Maester for Otto Hightower.
The youngest Targaryen Princess not only stayed back, but also proved everyone wrong. Instead of cowering like everyone thought she would, she watched unblinking with utmost determination as the two young Maesters worked on her father under the supervision of the Grand-Maester Orwyle.
However, what she saw, only added to her already growing fear.
His flesh is rotting.
He is fading.
"Will he die?"
Although Aemma could only bring her voice to be barely above whisper but because of how eerily quiet the room was except for the occasional painful moans coming from the King and rare hisses coming from the Hand of the King who was getting his bleeding hand stitched up by a Maester, her question was heard by all.
Lady Lyanne was about respond but got beaten by Orwyle as he turned and crunched down, bringing himself to level with the Princess.
"Everyone must die one day Princess."
Rolling her eyes Aemma rephrased the question. Choosing to be more direct this time.
"But that was not what I asked. What I need to know is— if he is dying... soon?"
"We're doing our best Princess…" The older man tore his gaze away from her to focus on the King momentarily "…to prevent such misfortune."
Aemma froze in the midst of taking her father's hand, noticing he was missing another finger now. Closing her eyes she took a sharp inhale of breath.
"Will you be able to prevent it?"
The Grand-Maester could not hide how much proud and impressed he was by the display of strength the child was showing. A part of him found it hard to believe it is the same little girl who vomited at the gruesome sight of her brother's maimed face. But such was not to be dwelled upon currently. As he proceeded to respond, an unnaturally loud moan from Viserys interrupted them.
Orwyle stood at once and rushed to check if the junior Maesters have made any mistakes. While Aemma shot her eyes open and took a step back. Fear clearly visible on her violet irises now.
He will not live long.
She realized.
And when he dies…
It had raised a violent fear in her heart. Evidently loosening her grip on the rope of strength she was holding onto.
Therefore no force could hold her back when she turned on her heels and sprinted out of the King's quarters. Ignoring the calls of her grandsire and her nursemaid.
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Entering her chamber the youngest Targaryen slammed the door shut before she absently walked to her bed and threw herself on it.
"…we absolutely must keep a strong hold on Aemond. Because when your father dies, you, will need him the most."
Pressing both palms tightly against her ears Aemma tried to block the voice. Push away the frightening thoughts. But to no avail. Her mother's heed would not stop ringing in her head.
Unbeknownst to her, they have already been embedded into her soul.
Aemond thought it all but a singular occurrence. One of his lucky day — when one afternoon post his training, he returned to his chamber and found Aemma sitting on his bed, her tiny legs dangling as she waited for him with a plate of assortment of pastries. Most of which she forcibly fed him.
Clearly he was mistaken!
He soon realized — when it seemed to have become a routine for him to find her in his chambers every time he returned from training.
Much to his pleasure it did not stop there.
The more time passed the more he saw Aemma. Everywhere he looked, there she was! And Aemond did not mind that at all, as it was the best thing that could have happened to him. She could disturb him anywhere and it wouldn't bother him the least. For her, anything and everything would be pardoned.
She began to show up at the library and quietly sit beside him, waiting for him to finish. From there it evolved to being present while he studied with the Maesters. During this time Aemond took the opportunity to teach her how to write in cursive like him. Turned out, Aemma was a fast learner. Soon the Maester could no longer distinguish between their writing, as it looked same to same.
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It soon became evident that Aemma was beginning to lose her way from Faith. Although she hasn't strayed like Aegon but if things keep up the way it is going, it would only be a matter of time until she joins him.
The fact that she would possibly have to see another one of her child go astray, left Alicent in grave distress. And when she addressed this concern with Aemond - one evening, inside her solar - he took hold of both her hands and assured,
"Do not fret mother, Aemma will not stray from Faith." He brought their entwined hands to his heart. A silent oath taken by a duty bound son.
"You have my word… I won't let her!" It was the way his single eye lit up and his face crunched as he vowed and the deep tone in which his voice flowed, showed the first signs of trouble.
But unfortunately it went unseen by Alicent Hightower. As her focus solely remained on retrieving her daughter's faith on the Sevens— a matter that was trivial in comparison to the one unfolding right in front of her eyes.
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To appease his mother, Aemond took upon the duty to take Aemma to the Sept.
Every morning he collected her from her chamber after the maids prepared her for the day. Then, hand in hand they would march to the Grand Sept accompanied by their mother, Helaena and a handful of their ladies in waiting.
There had been times when their mother and older sister skipped, but never Aemond! And neither did he let Aemma.
Personally, he came to look forward to their time alone at the Sept. As it allowed his mind to delve into thoughts that he would otherwise feel awkward to think about in the presence of his mother and Helaena. In addition to that, their absence let him freely watch Aemma as she lit the candles - only part of being in the Sept she actually enjoyed. And Aemond let her light as many candles as her heart desired. Because as long as she stays occupied, he can watch her undisturbed.
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Each passing day the duration of the time he watches her increases. It has been happening so without his knowledge. A habit that formed in the Sept has now followed him into the Red Keep.
He never tire of watching her. In fact it's never enough. There is always something new to notice within her. As if the Gods make her little by little everyday.
Aemond may not agree with many of his father's beliefs. However the one-eyed Prince found himself in full agreement with the King when he said all those years ago, that, amongst all his children Aemma is the most beautiful one.
She certainly is, the most beautiful thing one amongst all of them.
It came as no surprise when on her sixth name day, she was cheered as the realm's beauty. Since then, often before sleep Aemond tries to imagine what form would she take once grown. But never has he been successful in reaching a conclusion.
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It does not take Aemond long time to notice the blessing that the Sevens have bestowed upon him. And he is certain the Gods have chosen to reward him for his good deeds.
His relationship with Aemma has further improved, it is stronger than ever.
Recently she began visiting the training yard accompanied by Helaena's ladies in waiting. She would cheer for him the loudest and while the ladies with her would applaud for him.
Watching Aemma interact with these coming of age ladies profoundly fascinated Aemond. She happens to be the smallest in the group in both aspects— size and age. Barely reaching their shoulder or chest level in height, while having a substantial age gap of five to ten years. Yet she led them with the same amount of energy as the alpha of a wolf pack.
When alone, Aemma has taken up the hobby to do his hair. Making braids and different styles of up-dos, giving him different appearance each time. As much as Aemond enjoyed her touches and ministration on himself, he absolutely detested the end result. Dread filled his heart every time she'd hold the mirror before him. Some of those hairstyles are downright hideous and looks ridiculous. Still, he never dared slip those thoughts out aloud. Whatever came up his throat and threatened to spill, in fear of hurting his little sister's feelings he would swallow them forcefully.
During any meal-time be it breakfast, lunch or supper Aemma would sit by his side. Feed him with her own hand - Oblivious to the displeased look in Aegon's eyes. Snatch his favourite items from the plates of others and put it on his. And when not seated beside him, she'd make sure to sit across from him and under the table their feet would dance together. A secretive game that only the two of them had knowledge of.
After spending most of his life bullied and ignored, at long last when the one eyed Prince got to taste acknowledgment and contentment, the Sevens chose to be cruel and put his faith to trial once more.
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Like all good things, his peace began its slow descent to deter when Aemma decided to include Daeron into their mix.
Initially Aemond did not know how to feel, albeit his childhood curiosity to be included in the same group as his two younger siblings. But then, he was baffled by side of Aemma that flourished in the presence of his little brother.
At first their little mischief seemed all so innocent, fun and thrilling. Most of which included stealing food from the kitchen, destroying already prepared meals by adding additional salt and spices into them. Throwing eggs at the Kingsguards etcetera.
Soon enough the disturbing ones began emerging to the surface.
Aemond found himself frozen to the ground the first time he saw Aemma prying under a Septa's skirt or pinch a serving girl's arse (a trick no doubt taught by Aegon) then blame it on him or Daeron.
He scolded her twice for such depraved behaviour but that seemed to have no effect at all. Even the ear pull he gave her barely did much.
Ultimately his weakness for Aemma caused Aemond to impose the blame on Daeron's shoulder instead. His head reasoned— Daeron too happens to be her older brother and is equally responsible for teaching her to distinguish between right and wrong. Rather he chooses to follow her like a lost pup. As a result of which, although Aemond held no ill feelings towards his younger brother like he did towards his older brother, but after seeing everything, he no longer preferred the boy to be around Aemma. Because in his presence she becomes the female version of Aegon. Unlike the gentle, docile girl who practices her embroidery (although she is terrible at it) or sketching (at which she is surprisingly good at).
Therefore keeping the betterment of both in his mind as top priority, Aemond began taking tactical measures to keep his younger siblings apart.
But it was easier said than done...
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It was not just the silly jesting depravity that tied Aemma and Daeron in their bond. As it happens, there is more to their connection that meets in the eyes.
Her growing attachment towards his dragon Tessarion stands as the solid proof of that claim. That little blue lizard has come to accept her as part of their team.
On occasions Aemond had watched from afar and seethed as that miserable excuse of dragon snuggled Aemma while she caressed its scales and Daeron cheered for them.
Jealousy can be a very ugly emotion. Aemond Targaryen experienced it first hand when he got the distinct urge one day to command Vhagar to eat up the blue lizard. Of course he pushed down the vile thought soon as they invaded his mind. After all how could he be so cruel to his own little brother.
That being said he did long for Aemma to form similar kind of bond with Vhagar. The suggestion was thrown her way, alongside an offer to take her riding. But his luck did not favour. Aemma paled at the mere mention of Vhagar's name. Even his mother discouraged the idea, stating it is far too dangerous for a child to be near that large beast and would make their father furious.
Hence Aemond had to back out, now. For he knows once she matures she will come to appreciate Vhagar. Perhaps getting her own mount will help her see things differently. In any case, that isn't his priority at the moment. Currently what is most important to him is:
Their bond. Their connection. Their love.
At breakfast table inside the Queen's solar:
Not again!
Looking down at his plate, the eldest Targaryen Prince frowned, noticing how much of his portion had lessened without him eating. He did not even have to look, he already knew where it had gone or rather who took it. Still, he glanced to the side to have a quick peek; only to be further stewed by what he saw.
"I can't eat so much, I have to go for training." Aemond complained, after taking few bites of the large slice of cake Aemma was forcing him to eat.
"Have another bite, last one."
"If I am to have another bite of this cake I will not be able to move."
"How about a bite of a melon then?" She suggested and turned to the tray that had all the sliced cantaloupes but found it to be empty. The last slice was sitting on Aegon's plate, which he was about to eat. But before he could dip his fork, Aemma's hand came in like the waves of the sea and swept it away.
Aegon cocked his head in his little sister's direction, eyes turned twice as wide.
While the growing closeness between Aemond and Aemma made Alicent the happiest, followed by Helaena and Daeron. But Aegon remained fully displeased by it, for him, it posed as quite the inconvenience. Not to mention, it was as bewildering as it was annoying! And the sober part of his brain could only wonder what had their mother poured into her head to make her behave such way. From what he knows, Aemma doesn't have the bones to dote on that twat. And here she was bathing him with all her love to the point where she would savagely snatch food from others plates with no remorse to feed him!
How irritating!
Although unsure if it was truly happening but Aegon felt smoke emerging through his ears as he watched Aemond take a decent size bite of his melon.
"I was going to eat that you little whore!" Aegon protested, shooting both Aemond and Aemma a hard glare.
"AEGON!" His mother and grandsire scolded him in unison.
"Fine! You little monkey!" And he quickly corrected himself remembering he will have to bear consequences if his father hears of the use of derogatory terms on his precious little girl.
"How dare you call me monkey... Apologize! Apologize now!" She demanded, earning attention of everyone at the table.
"What?" Aegon and few others at the table arched a brow. All of them thinking the same thing - who takes offence to being called a monkey over whore.
Thing is, for Aemma the situation is a bit twisted. From infancy her ears have heard the term 'whore' being used to refer to her half-sister so many times that after all these years it no longer felt so offensive. Instead getting called a monkey served as greater insult.
"I said apologize." Aemma repeated.
"What for?"
"For insulting me."
Aegon rolled his eyes.
"Consider yourself fortunate that I chose to let it slide with simple insult, instead of stripping naked as the day you were born and hanging you upside-down outside the Red Keep."
"Aegon..." Came the warning from Otto Hightower.
"Well then," Aemma leaned closer to Aegon, in an attempt to appear menacing. "father will hear about it by tonight."
Throwing his head back Aegon laughed before turning his voice to a taunt.
"Go on tell him!" He goaded. "You're no Rhaenyra, father won't even give a shit."
Aemma's face twisted in anger and Aegon rejoiced at the reaction he received.
Everyone at the table already knew the youngest Targaryen had a comeback response sitting at the tip of her tongue. But none of them were prepared for the blistering stupid thing that came out of her mouth next. Especially her mother.
"Father will give shit." Aemma spat like she was spitting venom. "You know why? Because I'm Aemma - the love of his life. Only I matter to him. While you all are just dirt under his feet. Meant to be washed away and forgotten."
The room descended into heavy silence. All eyes set on the seven year old girl who looked ready to combust.
Otto Hightower briefly stared at his youngest granddaughter putting on a hard impassive face before he resumed eating. Truth be told, she is not wrong. Indeed she is the current love of Viserys's life and perhaps will be the last. In such circumstances Ser Otto's only regret being— his failure to bring her under his grasp. Problem is, the child seems to have a mind of her own. Does exactly what her little brain and heart tells; without fearing any consequences. Everyone has a protocol – but Aemma Targaryen tends to throw protocol out the window. She has privileges that did not even exist for Rhaenyra. As the heir there were boundaries that Rhaenyra could not cross. Whereas this insolent brat openly makes faces at him and King laughs, and with him the small council also laughs. Leaving Otto to tolerate swallowing his pride.
Joining her father Alicent frowned as well, feeling angry and embarrassed at the same time. Although done without the intention, but this was a big insult to her. What hurt more was that it came from her own child.
Like everyone Helaena also stared, her lips forming incoherent sentence that none bothered to listen. Aemond too watched stoically, but because Aemma was facing Aegon (eyes locked in a glaring competition with him), he could only see her long silvery mane cascading down her back, reaching below her waist.
The silence stretched till Daeron suddenly choked on his food.
Alicent (on his right) passed him a goblet of water while Helaena (on his left) gently rubbed his back. But neither of their actions seemed to help. And from the opposite side Aemma watched them tend to him in concern.
Her quarrel with Aegon nearly forgotten.
But that wasn't the case with him. He was nowhere near done. In fact it just got better— he brought out the perfect reaction from her. In one simple statement she insulted everyone at the table. Oh the look that adorned their mother face that moment was to be seen! If not for the little bastard's interruption, Aegon definitely would pushed more buttons.
"Oh Daeron... Please be alright. Please be alright. Please be alright. Please be alright. Please be alright." Aemma kept on muttering beneath her breath like she was chanting a prayer.
Aegon observed her reaction briefly before his eyes drifted over to his one-eyed brother. All the earlier smug smirks on his lips now vanished into the thin air.
Ironic, how all it took was small coughing from Daeron to put Aemond on his place.
Aemma has never been secretive about her favouritism towards Daeron. Most people assume it's due to their close proximity in age. But Aegon is confident it's blooming into something else. The more they grow the more it will blossom. Which is precisely why Aemma's sudden closeness to Aemond for the past couple moons took not only him, but a lot of people by surprise. And Aegon has no doubt of the part his mother played in this. As such behaviour could only induced by Alicent Hightower. Because the Aemma everyone knows would never throw herself at the likes of that twat! She has never been or anyway felt close to him. Above that, their perspective and priorities clash making them hard to get along.
Secretly the oldest Targaryen boy was laying odds, curious as to how long this farce would last.
Since they were almost at the end of breakfast, Alicent dismissed the boys soon as Daeron's coughing ceased. Her father followed suit leaving his daughter in the company of her daughters.
Once all the men exited and the servants began to collect all the plates, the Queen ushered her youngest to come and take the empty seat between Helaena and herself. To which the little princess gladly complied.
"Have you prepared your present my love?"
Aemma quirked her brows.
What present does she speak of?
Her mother's smile widened as she took hold a lock of Aemma's silver hair between her fingers before tucking it behind her ear.
"Aemond's name day is only two days away, I hope you haven't forgotten."
Shit! Aemma swallowed. Clearly she forgot. But lacked the courage to admit it to her mother. Therefore, resonated to lying.
"Of course not! I… I had his present ready long ago."
Slightly relieved, Alicent's attention switched over to her older daughter.
"What about you sweetling?"
Helaena paused the full blown conversation she was having with her butterfly and looked over at her mother.
"It's ready." She muttered.
Alicent released the breath she didn't know she was holding all this time. So she failed to take notice of how Aemma's smile turned different. Her face no longer able to conceal the unease she felt inside.
"Aemond is so lucky to have sisters like you both."
Inside her chamber Aemma paced from one end to the other, consecutively picking at her nails and biting her lower lip. She has been so focused on pleasing him all this time that she totally forgot about his fast approaching name day; despite her mother's constant reminder.
Now, for the past two days she has been ransacking her brain, desperately trying to come up with a suitable name day present. With no notable success of course! Getting a present for Aemond turned out to difficult than what she had anticipated. Especially when his interest seemed limited to books and weaponries— things that she hardly has any knowledge on.
As a result here she is, on his name day, still without a clue as to what to present him.
Aemma came to a sudden halt. Actually stopped dead in her pacing of her bedroom.
What if she pretends to be ill and skip the supper tonight. That way she can buy herself sometime and come up with a suitable present for him. However skipping supper tonight will be next to impossible. And if by the grace of Gods she succeeds though, it will greatly upset her mother.
Sighing, she plopped down on the bed. Deeply regretting lying to her mother. As it has closed the option to seek her assistance. And her father has been far too ill since last week, making him use his brain in such condition would be cruel. She did try her luck with Aegon and got him to spill that he has the most spectacular gift planned for Aemond. When Aemma offered to join excitedly - so that they could give this supposedly spectacular gift together - he swatted her away like she was some sort of a flea.
Daeron's giving books. She knew that beforehand. So joining him would be utterly pointless and most certainly disappoint her mother.
Thus at this time, at the nearest hour, it left her with only her sister to turn to.
On that account, holding onto the last ray of hope Aemma left her bed and ran out her chamber, heading straight for the direction of Helaena's.
The guard stationed outside let her in after a quick announcement.
Aemma walked in expecting to find her sister doing her usual things — the embroidery or playing with her little friends, but definitely not sleeping!
No! An exasperated sigh left her lips.
Of course Helaena can afford to sleep like a newborn babe. After all she finished sewing two days ago! The leather eye-patch is now packed in the beautifully carved wooden box, placed on the table in front of the settee.
Striding over Aemma picked up the said box and looked at it begrudgingly. Her mind debating whether to awake Helaena now or wait till she awaken. Chance are by the time she awakens on her own accord it would be almost evening and much time wouldn't be left until supper begins.
What if I... Just then, the idea floated in.
What would Helaena give him then? She worked so hard for this... No! that would be right. She thought, shaking her head vehemently.
But Helaena already has her own dragon. She wouldn't need him in the future as much I would.
The sound of movement startled Aemma causing her heart leap to her throat. Clutching the box closer to her chest she glanced over the shoulder.
Helaena was stirring in her sleep. Perhaps awakening. Whatever decision is to be made must be made at once.
Right before supper was set to begin, Alicent Hightower marched into her eldest daughter's room wearing the expression of annoyance on her face.
Nearing of Aemond's name day has left her under tremendous pressure. Ever since the incident at Driftmark, no celebration or feasts get thrown for him. Only a supper is hosted by the Queen, which is mandatory for all members of the family to attend. There, they present him with thoughtful gifts, well wishes and prayers to make the one eyed boy feel special. Alicent takes all initiative to make sure this one particular supper of the year goes accordingly with her plan. For that reason she begins chasing all her other children moons ahead of the time; reminding them constantly to have Aemond's present prepared.
This year it was no different, everything has been unfolding according how she had planned. Except for last minute discrepancies with the punctuality of her older children. Naturally it strike a nerve within Alicent. She had repeatedly told everyone to gather up at the dining hall just after sundown. And everyone seemed to have understood the significance of her words earlier. Yet, Aegon had to be dragged out of a brothel by Ser Arryk, and Helaena is still no show. Which was why instead of sending Talya to fetch her eldest girl, the Queen decided to go see what the matter was herself.
"Why are you still not at the dining hall? Supper will be served soon, everyone awaits your presence. Including the King."
Due to her surging state of panic Helaena couldn't pay much attention to her mother's words. Her focus solely remained on the object she was relentlessly searching for.
"What must you be searching for with such urgency?" Alicent offered a helping hand. "Tell me, I might be of some help."
"Have you seen the box?"
"What box sweetling?" Alicent frowned, silently praying it wasn't what she feared it to be.
"The wooden rectangular box. Where I put the eye-patch..." Helaena trailed of uneasily. Staying consistent in her effort to frantically searching every corner of her room for it.
"You can't find it…?"
Helaena nodded 'no'. And without paying much attention to the woman's reaction she pointed her mother to check on the other corner for a carved rectangular wooden box.
Alicent paled.
Alas! It turned out exactly as she feared.
Disappointment washed over her. The boy is turning three and ten and his older sister has been reckless enough with his gift to let it go missing.
Instantaneously the dissatisfaction changed to anger and Alicent felt the blood in her veins beginning to boil.
"How could you be so irresponsible...!?" Her voice raised slightly. Wherein tone was cold, harsh sounding and quite accusatory.
"It's his thirteenth name day!" She felt the need to remind. "A special age where he begins to leave boyhood behind and step forth into manhood. And you could not be bothered to keep his present somewhere safe."
Helaena paused in the midst of her search and looked to her mother in shock. But Alicent was not in a position to care in that moment.
"Such carelessness is expected from Aemma, not you. Anyway… find it quickly and join us in the dining hall." Alicent said, as she turned around ready to leave.
Exhausted with her troublesome bunch.
Alicent returned to the dining hall and slumped down on the empty chair beside her father. Right away a heavily frustrated left her lips. Noting his daughter's distress Otto Hightower leaned into her ear to inquire if everything was alright with Helaena.
In response to which, Alicent sighed once more. Truth is, in the given moment she lacked the strength to explain to her father. Thankfully, much to her relief, Helaena came soon after. A wooden box befitting her earlier description carefully tucked under her arm.
In a rare occurrence, Otto Hightower flashed a soft genuine smile as he faced Helaena and patted the other empty seat beside himself for her to take. An affection that was only reserved for his oldest granddaughter. Just as she sat down he was quick to take her hand and kiss the back of it. Hoping this little gesture would soothe whatever discomfort she was feeling.
After everyone settled down as the father and King, Viserys was the first to present Aemond his name day gift— a Valyrian steel dagger. Aemond accepted the present with a courteous bow, muttering a polite thanks to his father.
Then the Queen clapped her hands and a pair of servants walked in, carrying what appeared to be a brand new comfortable saddle. To especially thank his mother Aemond went up to Alicent and kissed both her cheeks.
After his mother, his grandsire revealed his present— collection of ancient books on the history of Hightowers - fetched from Oldtown.
Daeron was the first amongst the siblings to give his present — philosophy books.
Everyone then turned to Aegon expecting him to reveal his spectacular present that he has been boasting about from weeks ahead. Aemma and Daeron shared a look amongst themselves curious to be finally able to see what was so special their oldest brother had in store.
Disappointing everyone, the oldest Targaryen Prince turned to his younger brother and wrapped an arm around his shoulder. A sly smirk already sitting on his lips.
"Like all good things, my spectacular present for you must be saved for last, little brother." With that taunt Aegon winked.
All Aemond did was roll his eye. Not that he was expecting anything from Aegon to begin with. Last year the latter gifted him a cup so that he can get into the habit of drinking.
All attention turned to Helaena next.
Everyone stared at her expecting the best. Last year she sewed him a set of riding gloves. This year the expectation was higher. That's when Aemma stood abruptly, drawing all attention to herself.
"A small token of my love, for your special day. I truly hope you like it, brother."
Soon as Aemma revealed her present, Helaena's eyes turned wide in recognition of the familiar box. Instantly her horrified eyes switched over to her younger sister but the latter refused to meet the former's questioning gaze. Keeping them zoned in on their brother, who has just took out the eyepatch from the box and began admiring it.
"Such a thoughtful gift." Viserys commented, eyeing the eyepatch so fondly as if no better eyepatch has been made in the realm before this. "Did you make that yourself, darling?"
Aemma bobbed her head. He then, turned to Aemond, "Is this not the best present you received tonight, my son?"
On the outside Aemond seemed as stoic as ever, but there was turmoil inside him. And it further intensified as his eye drift to Helaena and found her with head down, refusing to meet his gaze.
He's no fool nor a willfully blind and mind-numbingly daft person like his father. It is clear as any bright sunny day that it was not Aemma rather Helaena who actually made the eyepatch. Aemma stole her work and is taking credit for it. He can expose her right here-right now if he so wishes. And the urge was strongly there. For he knows her talent is not in that field. How can she make such a refined leather eyepatch when she cannot do simplest of embroidery. More important she was with him most of the time, so when did she manage the time to make this?
All he has to do is ask her anyone of these questions and the truth shall prevail on its own.
The choices were laid out for him in plain sight:
Expose Aemma and give Helaena the justice she deserves.
OR
Act blind like his father and pretend to know nothing.
The boy closed his eye momentarily.
The given choices were not as easy as it seemed on the surface. Sure he can and should - in every moral aspect - deliver Helaena the justice she deserves but in exchange whatever progress he has made with Aemma will take a drastic step back. Perhaps the connection they formed will be ruined for good.
Is that a fair exchange?
He looked at Aemma and was greeted by her dimpled smiled and expecting gaze. She was waiting to be praised just the way Helaena was waiting for the justice to served.
Aemond's throat bobbed.
A choice must be made between:
Truth or Lie!
Right or Wrong!
Praise or Justice!
Aemma or Helaena!
And Aemond knew the truth. He understood what was right and who deserved justice. But as his lips parted, the words he spoke were…
"Indeed father…" A lump formed in his throat which he managed to swallow "…it is my favourite gift of all."
Aemma's grin grew wider. Springing out of her seat she came around the table and tightly hugged him from behind. Whilst Helaena's head lowered, eyes clenched shut and a hand clutched the fabric of her dress above her chest. It felt as if her heartstrings were being pulled one after the other.
As for Aemond… his heart sank into the depth of despair. Bitterness worked its way up his throat. He never intended to hurt Helaena. However, there was a choice to be made carefully and wisely.
Deep inside he knows Helaena will understand, she will forgive. Aemma on the other hand will never understand, nor will she ever forgive or forget.
"You have exceeding my expectations and made your mother very proud."
Aemma's cheeks flushed at mother's praise.
"Why not put it on." Viserys suggested. "Let us all see how much of a handsome Prince it makes you look."
"Handsome Prince my foot!" Aegon scoffed. "He will look no less than a pirate than he already does."
Alicent shot him a nasty glare but the rest decided to ignore his comment. For them it was not needed nor appreciated.
"Allow me..." Aemma offered.
She helped Aemond take off the eyepatch he already had on and placed the new one in it's place. But just as she was about to fasten the buckle… she couldn't figure out how to work with it.
Seven hells! She cursed under her breath.
It was taking long, excruciatingly long time to fasten a simple buckle. And Aemma still had no clue as to what she was doing wrong that the damn buckle refused to clasp together. Out of desperation, she even went as far as to open the hair-tie and undo his half done hair in order to seek possibilities whether she could tie the clasp of the eyepatch with his hair.
Still no avail!
The room descended to an awkward silence. Aemma grew nervous feeling all eyes on her, scrutinizing. An unnerved feeling burst inside her gut.
Viserys kept his warm smile intact to encourage his little girl to keep going. Just because she made it does not mean she is supposed to know how to fasten it. Otto and Alicent shared a confused glance before they refocused on Aemma.
"Stop shaking your head. I cannot fasten the hook otherwise." She told Aemond, thinking it would ease down the tension. Only for Aegon to ruin it by pointing out the obvious.
"His head is perfectly still. It's your hands that shake; sister."
"Instead of saying something useless, why not do something useful. Get up and help me!" Aemma shot back. Her scolding made it seem as if she is the older sister and he the naughty little brother.
It worked right away on Daeron. The youngest boy was up on his feet in a heartbeat, hoovering over Aemond's head to see if he could help. But he too was facing difficulties. Aemma then cleared her throat, giving Aegon the side-eyed glance. Like a trained hound he too raised to his feet and joined them.
Together all three of them crowded over Aemond's head bickering as they tried to figure out how to close the clasp of the eyepatch.
"Try joining the two heads together." Daeron suggested and Aemma followed. But it didn't work.
"No! Let's cut his hair." Aegon said pulling few strands in the process. His odd statement earned him a bewildered look from his three younger siblings.
"Huh!" Exclaimed Aemma. "How is that supposed to help?!"
"It won't, but it will be fun." Aegon wiggled his brows. "Here, you grab a fistful of his hair and I'll just chop it off with a knife from the roots."
Aemond's singular eye turned wide. He tried to turn and glare at the three behind, but could not, since his two brothers held his head so tightly.
"Aegon!" Their mother warned. But the three siblings were too busy bickering amongst themselves to notice her glaring.
"Are we really cutting his hair?" Daeron interjected.
"No silly! He was just jesting."
"Why is it taking so long to fasten a simple eyepatch." Alicent intervened. "We have to start eating. People here are starving."
"The brat here doesn't even know what she made." Retorted Aegon, losing patience and getting frustrated at this point.
"Aegon!" Viserys scolded. "Don't be rude to your sister. She at least put the effort to make something. Take an example out of her page for future."
Rolling his eyes Aegon retreated to his seat and emptied his cup in a long sip. Daeron followed suit. Leaving Aemma by herself to figure out how to fasten the eyepatch.
Finally, seeing no other way Aemma looked to her sister. She had enough, grew tired of the dramatic and was ready to reveal the truth. Consequences be damned! That's when Helaena locked eyes with her and signalled with the eyes - to bring the hook from underneath the loop and then claps it.
Aemma followed the instructions and it worked!
Another look was shared between the sister. Aemma was surprised by her sister's generosity. If she were in her position she would have exposed the truth long ago.
"What are you giving, sister?" It was Daeron's voice that broke the two sisters staring contest.
"Oh I almost forgot." Helaena pulled out her box and passed it over to Aemond. "I hope you like it brother."
As Aemond opened the box Aegon peered over and picked up the object inside barely pinching it between his fingers.
"What is this thing?"
Aemond shot him a glare and snatched it back. "It's a handkerchief."
"Oh!" He turned to Helaena. "Well sister, your gift is as stupid as your are. Next time learn something from our little sister."
"Aegon!" Alicent, Otto and Aemond all three of them snapped in unison. But it was Aemma who picked up a spoon and hit him on the head with it.
"Who are you to insult her when you came here empty handed."
Everyone turned to Aemma, shocked and astonished. Nobody had predicted this outcome where Aemma would come to Helaena's defence. Guess there is first time for everything.
"I'm giving him something spectacular." Aegon defended, massaging the back of his head as it hurt from the blow he just received.
"How are we to know it's spectacular when we have not seen it?"
"Can we at least see it?" Daeron pleaded.
"Not everything is meant to be seen, little brother. Some must be experienced." Aegon explained, taking a sip of his wine and calling after a serving girl to fill up his cup.
"He's lying!" Aemma interjected returning to her seat beside Daeron. "He has no gift."
"You speak as if you know me so well."
"We all kno—"
"Enough!" Alicent cut in, deciding it was time to put a stop to it. "All of you! Can we never have a single meal peacefully, without trying to kill each other…?"
Aemma resigned and focused on the food that was getting served on her plate. She was no longer hungry but forces herself to eat anyway. Aegon finished his drink and motion for his cup to be refilled. Daeron muttered an apology on all of his siblings behalf.
Thus the family finally began their supper.
Later that night, sometime during the hour of the ghosts, Aemma sneaked into Helaena's chamber. She had to… otherwise… sleep would not come to her tonight. As the growing guilt inside has long begun to suffocate her.
Like earlier, once again Aemma found her sister in bed. Tucked under the thick blanket, facing away from the burning hearth.
Deciding to waste no time, she joins her.
Even in state of unconsciousness Helaena flinched moment before waking up jolting and yelping. Sleep left her body at the strange sensation of a pair of hands circling around her waist. Much to her dismay the hands refused to let go, despite her struggle. But her struggle soon ceased and unease soothed once she recognized who those tiny wrists belonged to.
Looking over her shoulder the older Targaryen Princess found her little sister to be giving her wiggly eyes while an adorable pout sat on her lips.
"What's happened?" She fully turned around and faced Aemma. "Why are you here?"
Even though it appeared as though there was a lot she wanted to say, Aemma actually said nothing. Just scooted closer and snuggled into her older sister's chest. Not caring about how uncomfortable it made the latter.
Helaena tried to move back, not used to being this physically close to her.
Respecting her choice Aemma drew back.
The two sisters now looking eye to eye.
"What brings you here so late?" Inquired Helaena politely. Still unsettled by having someone in bed with her.
Aemma opened her mouth and soon after closed it off. What was there to say anyway? The damage was already done! She had snatched away and took credit for her sister's hard work. A simple apology is not enough. It cannot take them back in time for Aemma to redo it differently. With a hand on her heart, she only gave her sister a saddened look in response. Despite her inability to express it verbally, the younger Princess had skillfully shown them reflected in her eyes.
That alone was enough for Helaena's soft heart to melt. Fighting the strange feeling inside her gut she reached out and caressed her little sister face. Greedily Aemma nuzzled into her touch.
"It was wrong if me… I shouldn't have…"
"Ssshhhhh..."
Helaena smiled. Pressing a kiss to Aemma's forehead felt so natural that she felt compelled to do it one more time.
"I can teach you how to make them. Perhaps you can actually sew him one in the future."
"No need." The younger one quickly dismissed older's suggestion with a wave of her hand. "Embroidery and sewing are your tasks. Not mine."
"What is yours then?"
"I know not yet. But for now I would like for it to be hugging you... can I?"
A heartfelt smile was exchanged between them before they embraced, basking in each other's presence and embarking their new kinship.
Meanwhile…
Aemond had almost surrendered to sleep when the door to his chamber creaked open.
Instinctively he shot up, fully alert. His gaze narrowed to a glare upon finding his older brother saunter toward his bed. Reeking of wine and dressed in clothing of small folks that peeked from underneath the dark cloak.
"Here," Aegon threw the spare cloak at Aemond, which the latter caught easily. "put this on."
"Why?"
"We are going out."
"This late... what for?"
"You are yet to receive the best gift of your name day, brother."
The one eyed Prince frowned, eyeing his brother's approaching figure suspiciously. Suddenly an ill feeling began cooking at the pit of his stomach. And by the time he could figure out how to deal with the said feeling, Aegon had already closed the gap between them.
In almost no time at all the older Prince yanked the sheet off of his brother, grabbed him by the arm to forcefully pull him of the bed and threw an arm around his shoulder afterwards.
"It's my duty as your older brother to ensure you are as educated as I am..."
Aemond raised a brow. "I don't follow."
Aegon smirked deviously, thinking about the arrangement he has made. This will be a night that will forever remain etched into this twat's memory.
"I am taking you to one of the finest establishments in the Street of Silk."
"What?!"
A mixture of confusion and uneasiness rose to Aemond's face as he somewhat grasped the notion behind those words.
But Aegon read -more like chose to read- that expression as excitement. So without further ado taking back the cloak from his brother's hand, he helped him put it on and guided him towards the secret passageway that would lead them directly to their destination.
Once they were finally out on the street, the older brother looked the younger brother in the eye and said,
"Time to get it wet."
A.N: Thank you all for reading. Hope you enjoyed. Now allow me to clarify some key points of this chapter-
For those of you wondering why Aemma stole Helaena's gift. I think this section distinguishes how the two sisters feel for Aemond. Helaena's feelings are genuine, she truly cares for him. Aemma on the other hand is forced to care for him. Her feelings stay in her head than her heart. Her brain was so focused so pleasing him that she totally forgot about his birthday.
On the other hand, because of this incident the two sisters in a way were able to start a new friendship between them which didn't exist before. And I'm excited to see where it leads.
Now let's move onto why Aemond chose to keep his mouth shut in spite of knowing right away that what Aemma had done! Let's face it- he knows how his two sisters are. So in spite of his heart showing Aemond the right path, his head won when it showed him all the reasons of what could happen if he didn't follow through according to Aemma's expectations. In order to have Aemma by his side, he has to follow through her terms and conditions (for now at least).