Year: 125 AC

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"You look lovely, Princess. You are five and ten now, so there will be no shortage of suitors seeking your hand in marriage."

Daenys's handmaiden, Lyra, stood behind her, carefully braiding her long, silver hair into an elaborate updo. As she braided the strands away from her face, she chattered on about the preparations for the King's grand feast and all those who were to attend. She rattled off a list of names, some of which Daenys briefly recognized from her lessons. At Lyra's mention of suitors, Daenys felt her stomach turn, and she suppressed the urge to make a face. She wondered why the king was holding such a grand celebration in the first place, and the thought that it might be to find her a husband sent a bolt of revulsion through her. 

"A touch of rouge for your cheeks perhaps, Princess?" Lyra's red-tinged fingers hovered over her face. "You have been looking quite pale lately, and if you will forgive me for my candour, the shadows beneath your eyes are quite dreadful."

Lyra clucked about in a motherly sort of way as she dabbed various powders into Daenys's skin and Daenys swallowed down her nausea for the umpteenth time that day. 

"Go on then princess, take a look."

At Lyra's prompting, Daenys obeyed, turning her gaze to the ornate-looking glass in her hand. Her hair had been skillfully pulled back and secured with intricate pins, giving her a more mature appearance. Despite Lyra's best efforts to enhance her appearance with cosmetics, there was still an undeniable pallor to Daenys's skin that seemed to resist all attempts at concealment. Daenys's dress was of a more modest cut, despite Lyra's protests for a more extravagant gown. It had a high neckline and long sleeves that fell past her fingers, coloured a deep Velaryon blue. 

Just then there was a knock on the door, followed by the entrance of one Jacaerys Velaryon. The sight of her younger brother brought a warm smile to Daenys's face, easing some of the sickness that had built up within her as she prepared for the royal feast. Lyra added the finishing touches to her appearance before taking her leave, allowing the siblings their privacy.

Jace's eyes widened in childlike admiration as he took in Daenys's appearance. 

"What?" Daenys mumbled defensively, taking his scrutinous look as one of disapproval. 

"You...you do not look like a swamp creature for once," he grinned at her. 

"Why you little-"

"You have to hurry up and come down now. Grandsire is waiting!" he interrupted not letting her finish. 

Daenys stood up reluctantly, rolling her eyes, "I'm not done with you, you kitchen rat."

"I'm no kitchen rat! Baela says I look dashing tonight!"

"Baela needs to see a maester, the poor girl has surely lost her sight."

"Hey!"

"Come now, you said we must hurry. Wouldn't want to keep grandsire waiting."

"Wait!"

Jace exclaimed suddenly, not being able to contain his excitement any longer. He reached behind his back and produced a small, carefully wrapped package. It was tied with a simple ribbon, and the paper was adorned with a hand-drawn dragon, one of Jace's own creations. The Velaryon siblings had made a pact many years ago, recognizing that their positions often led to extravagant and expensive gifts on their name days. In response, they had vowed to exchange presents that were more authentic and mostly handmade.

With a playful twinkle in his eyes, Jace extended the gift to Daenys, "I made this for you!"

Daenys accepted the gift, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips.  She moved to untie the ribbon and peeled away the paper that covered it, but he quickly stopped her. 

"No, no, not now," he mumbled, suddenly shy. "Save it for later. It'll be a surprise."

"Oh, come now. Let me open it now."

"I didn't say you couldn't. Just not now."

"Why'd you give it to me now then?"

"So I wouldn't forget. Just open it later, after the feast alright?"

Daenys couldn't help but laugh at her brother's persistence. She nodded in agreement and set the gift aside on her vanity, eager to uncover its contents later.

"Will you perhaps hint at what's inside?"

"No."

"Jacaerys!"

But Jace wasn't finished yet. With a mischievous twinkle in his eye, he grabbed her hand and began to pull her towards the grand hall where their family awaited. 

"Come on, Daenys," he urged, his youthful exuberance contagious. "Let's go greet everyone."

As they made their way towards the grand ballroom, a sudden and sharp pain shot through Daenys's chest, causing her to stumble. She gasped softly, her hand instinctively clutching at her chest as the pain seemed to radiate outward, sharp and aching like someone had stuck a dagger between her ribs. For one painful moment, it was hard to breathe. 

Jace's concern was immediate, and he turned to her with worry in his eyes, "Daenys, are you all right?" 

Daenys, waved off her brother's concern, forcing a reassuring smile despite the lingering discomfort. 

"I'm fine, Jace," she replied, her voice a bit strained. "Just a stumble, that's all."

She knew exactly what was wrong. It had to be the strange elixir she had been drinking for weeks, and not for the first time she wondered if she was truly just poisoning herself to death. 

The grand hall where the feast was being held exuded an air of opulence and majesty befitting the royal family's status. As Daenys and Jace entered the hall, their eyes were immediately drawn to the impressive sight before them.

At the heart of the hall on a raised dais, stood a long, ornate table draped in rich, deep crimson cloth. It was situated on a raised dais, where the King Viserys sat at the head. He was flanked by his daughter Rhaenyra and his wife Queen Alicent on either side. TO Daenys's delight, Lord Corlys and Princess Rhaenys were in attendance as well. 

The tables that extended outwards from the dais were adorned with fine silverware, sparkling goblets, and an array of sumptuous dishes. Roast meats, succulent fruits, and a plethora of delicacies from across the Seven Kingdoms filled the table, ready to satiate the appetites of the noble lords and ladies in attendance. In the center of the grand hall, a wide open space had been left for dancing. A few noble couples twirled gracefully around one another, their finery billowing as they moved to the rhythm of the music. The melodic strains of harp and lute filled the air, lending a sense of enchantment to the proceedings.

As Daenys drew near, King Viserys slowly rose to his feet, a tender smile on his weathered face. His eyes glistened with a mixture of pride and nostalgia as he beheld his granddaughter. With a gentle and deliberate motion, the king embraced Daenys, his frail arms wrapping around her. He pressed a soft kiss to her cheek, his voice trembling with emotion as he spoke. 

"My dear Daenys," he said, his voice filled with affection. "It is like my Aemma has returned for a night. I am blessed to be able to host your name day celebration this year."

"Thank you, grandsire."

After her grandfather, she greeted Lord Corlys Velaryon and Princess Rhaenys both of whom offered warm smiles and heartfelt wishes for her name day. Lord Corlys's eyes shone with pride and he gave her a nod of approval.

Daenys continued her round of greeting and eventually settled down in the seat between Helaena and Lucerys. Helaena took her hand in her own as soon as she sat down, entwining their fingers before leaning in to whisper in her ear.

"You look lovely, Daenys."

Daenys grinned at her aunt, clasping her hand even tighter. Then her smile morphed into a picture of worry.

"Are you sure you're alright Helaena? You do not have to force yourself to attend on my account if you do not feel well. You have been through quite an ordeal in the past few weeks."

Helaena laughed a gentle melodic sound and shook her head, "No, I am happy to be here. I am not exerting myself too much just by sitting in this chair now am I?"

"No, I suppose not. But you must tell me the moment you feel unwell."

"And ruin your name day, I should think not!"

"Name days come every year, but there's only one of my dear lovely aunt."

Helaena swatted at her playfully, "Flattery will get you far, dear niece."

"I shall go to the ends of the world for you."

"You do not have to go to the ends of the world. Just across the table will do. Be a darling and pass me the tray of sweet cakes."

"Yes, my queen."

"Oh, hush!"

Meanwhile, from further down the table, Aemond Targaryen had been discreetly watching Daenys throughout the evening. Or at least, he had been trying to be discreet, but his intense gaze had not gone unnoticed by his older brother. Aegon leaned in closer to Aemond, a mischievous grin on his face. 

"You know, brother," he said with a knowing glint in his eye, "if you keep staring like that, you might just bore a hole through her."

Aemond's immediate response was a vehement denial. He averted his gaze and cleared his throat, feigning indifference. 

"I'm not staring," he muttered, though his ears betrayed him with a hint of a blush.

"Yes, you are!" chimed in Daeron. 

Aemond sighed exasperatedly, cursing himself for somehow ending up seated between his meddlesome brothers. 

"Well, I can't blame you," Aegon admitted with a playful wink. "Our niece certainly cleaned up well, didn't she? Soon she'll have hoards of suitors vying for her hand. Aren't you just dying to know who Father will choose to be her husband?"

Daeron frowned, "Daenys will leave us? But she has only just returned. She has to help me before she leaves!"

"Oh, help you with what?" Aegon raised an eyebrow and Daeron shook his head quickly. 

"Nothing!"

"I do not care who she marries," Aemond finally forced out.

"Lying is a sin, little brother. Both of you, I am disappointed. Didn't you learn anything from Mother's incessant sermons? Don't want to displease the Seven, now do you?"

"Shut your mouth Aegon," Aemond sighed and Daeron nodded his agreement enthusiastically. 

As Daenys enjoyed her meal and lively conversation with her family, she noticed a handsome young lord making his way toward the dais. He was tall and well-dressed, his golden hair glinting in the soft candlelight of the grand hall. With a charming smile, he approached Daenys and bowed gracefully.

"Princess," he said, his voice smooth and confident, "would you do me the great honour of sharing a dance with me this evening?"

Daenys, feeling somewhat taken aback by the unexpected request, hesitated. 

"Why of course, she would be delighted to," King Viserys responded on her behalf. 

Daenys shoved down a burst of annoyance at his words. She didn't wish to be rude but she absolutely did not want to go dancing with the young Lannister lord. She wanted to stay right here and share a plate of sweet cakes with Helaena. Still, at her grandfather's probing look, she gave the young lord a polite smile and extended her hand to him. 

"Yes, I would be delighted," she mumbled, allowing herself to be led to the dance floor.

Aegon noticed the exchange from where he sat with Aemond and he couldn't help but wear a triumphant grin, nudging his younger brother playfully.

"See?" he teased, his voice light and mocking. "I told you she'd be flocked by suitors by the end of the night. Looks like it has already begun."

Aemond's jaw tightened, his expression betraying a hint of irritation. He didn't appreciate Aegon's teasing, but he didn't want to give his brother the satisfaction of knowing it bothered him. He simply nodded in acknowledgment of the situation.

Aegon, always one to push his brother's buttons, continued his playful banter, "What do you say, brother? Care to make a little wager? How long do you think Lord Lannister will last against our niece's fiery temper if she doesn't like him? Or maybe, just maybe, she'll actually take a liking to him. Then what? You think there'll be dragon riders in the Lannister line in a few years time?"

Aemond stiffened at his brother's implication, his irritation growing. 

"I have no interest in making wagers, Aegon," he replied curtly. "Go drown yourself in your drinks and stop bothering me!"

Aegon chuckled and patted Aemond on the shoulder. "Oh, come now, Aemond. Where's your sense of fun? It's just a bit of harmless speculation."

Aemond's gaze remained fixed on the dance floor, his thoughts drifting to the sight of Daenys dancing with the Lannister lord. He couldn't quite put his finger on why he felt so bothered by it, but the sight of her in another man's arms stirred an unexpected sense of possessiveness. He tried to divert his attention to the festivities unfolding around him, but he found himself struggling to shake off the image of his niece. His gaze kept involuntarily wandering back to the dance floor, where the two twirled in time to the music. He couldn't deny that Daenys looked enchanting under the soft glow of the great hall's chandeliers. Her dress clung to her form and flared out at the bottom, swaying and shimmering as they moved together captivatingly.

Aemond's grip on his goblet tightened, his knuckles turning white as he watched the young lord's hands firmly placed on Daenys's waist. He also noticed the way Daenys's slender fingers lightly gripped her dance partner's shoulders as he lifted her with ease in the intricate steps of the dance. Aemond tried to quell the unsettling feeling in his chest, but it only seemed to intensify.

Unbeknownst to him, Aegon had quietly risen from his seat and slipped away, joining the ranks of nobles mingling with one another. Many others at the table had also vacated their seats, drawn into the revelry and conversation that flowed through the grand hall. 

"She will not marry him," came a soft voice from his side.

Aemond turned his head to the side only to find his sister, Helaena, sitting in Aegon's chair beside him. Her presence was unassuming, and she leaned in closer to him, her voice barely above a whisper as she spoke again.

"Daenys will not marry the Lannister," her words carrying a sense of quiet certainty.

Aemond's brow furrowed in surprise, and he couldn't help but ask, "How do you know, Helaena?"

Helaena's smile remained enigmatic as she shrugged her delicate shoulders. Her violet eyes, held a mischievous glint as she replied, "I just know things, dear brother."

Aemond regarded his sister with a mix of curiosity and intrigue. Helaena sometimes spoke in riddles and when one was careful enough to understand them, he supposed she really did just know things. However, this was the first time he had seen her speak her predictions so clearly. He couldn't quite grasp how she had come to this conclusion, but there was an uncanny assurance in her tone that made him pause and consider her words.

"Well, it's not like-"

"Don't tell me that you do not care. I'm not Aegon."

"How'd you-"

Helaena winked, "I told you, I just know things, brother."

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Back on the dance floor, Daenys found her steps feeling less graceful and more laboured than earlier in the evening. The exhaustion that had been lingering in the background now crept forward, tugging at her limbs and clouding her thoughts. Her once-bright eyes now held a weariness that only those paying close attention might notice.

As another young lord approached her and extended his hand for a dance, Daenys couldn't refuse. She glanced back at her grandfather, King Viserys, who was watching her with eager anticipation. With a nod of approval from him, she reluctantly accepted the invitation.

With each dance, the queasiness that had been nagging at her all day seemed to intensify, and a sharp, persistent pain gnawed at her stomach. It made her feel lightheaded and dizzy at times, but Daenys was determined not to show any sign of weakness. The king's expectations weighed heavily on her, and she knew that her performance at this feast was crucial. She maintained a cheerful smile and engaged in polite small talk with the lords she danced with, masking the discomfort she felt. The music played on, and the laughter and chatter of the guests filled the grand hall, but beneath the façade of a joyous celebration, Daenys fought a losing battle with her fatigue. 

As Daenys danced with the next lord, his enthusiasm was palpable and impossible to ignore. His compliments flowed freely, and he seemed unable to contain his admiration.

"You look absolutely beautiful tonight, princess," he gushed, his voice filled with awe. "Stunning, truly stunning. It's an honour just to be in your presence."

Daenys managed a polite smile in response, but the relentless stream of flattery was starting to feel overwhelming. She nodded gracefully, acknowledging his words without fully engaging in the conversation. She wondered how much of the flattery was true and how much of it was for the throne he thought she would one day occupy. 

The lord continued, his words tumbling out with eager enthusiasm. 

"I must say, my lady, I find myself utterly enchanted by you. In fact, I've been thinking... I would be deeply honoured to ask the king, for your hand in marriage on the morrow. I am certain that together, we would make a wonderful king and queen."

Daenys blinked, taken aback by the sudden proposal. It was a bold move, even by the standards of courtly romance. A sharp retort lay just on the tip of her tongue but then she remembered that she had to mind her manners and so she maintained her composure, flashing him a wan smile as he continued to outline his vision for their future together.

"I come from a large family, you see," he went on, "with many siblings. I believe in the importance of family, and I would be delighted to have many, many children with you. The gods will bless your bountiful womb and our line will be full of strong dragonriders such as yourself."

Daenys nearly burst out laughing at his comment. Bountiful womb indeed. The whole reason she felt like throwing up all over this man's shiny shoes, apart from his ridiculous future plans, was so she could avoid the whole many, many children business. 

"Princess!" came an enthusiastic voice, followed by a grip on Daenys's shoulder. "Oh, it has been so long!"

"And who might you be?" Daenys's dance partner raised an eyebrow at the young lady who had interrupted their dance, eying her down haughtily. 

"Forgive me, my lord," the young lady said with a charming smile, her voice carrying the perfect balance of sweetness and firmness. "I simply couldn't resist reuniting with my dearest friend after so many years apart. We have so much catching up to do."

"What-"

"Let's go, princess, I have so many new things I must share with you!"

The lord looked disappointed, but as he opened his mouth to protest, Daenys slipped her arm into the newcomers and allowed herself to be led away. 

"My apologies, my lord. I really must attend to this, but I had a wonderful time and I am most grateful to have been in your presence."

The young man nodded self-importantly and replied, "Of course, princess. I shall await your return with bated breath."

"Good. Then you'll never breathe again," Daenys muttered under her breath once they were a safe distance away. 

As the young lady led Daenys away, she whispered apologetically to her, "My apologies for the interruption, but I thought you could use a moment of respite from that enthusiastic lord. I hope I did not step out of line, princess."

Daenys couldn't help but smile gratefully at her saviour. 

"No, no, please. I should be thanking you for that. The celebration has been... quite overwhelming, to say the least. It's a relief to have a moment of peace. And as for you, who do I have to thank for this timely rescue?"

The lady smiled and bowed her head in a small curtsy, "I am Cassandra. Lady Cassandra Baratheon, princess."

"It is a pleasure to meet you, Lady Cassandra."

Daenys could not help but be struck by her new friend's beauty. She wore her Baratheon features well, with a flowing cascade of dark hair and striking blue eyes that held a certain intensity as they looked at Daenys. 

"The pleasure is all mine, princess."

As Lady Cassandra and Daenys found a secluded corner of the great hall, Daenys couldn't help but feel a sense of relief wash over her. Away from the crowded dance floor and the relentless advances of suitors, this quiet spot offered a much-needed respite. The corner was dimly lit, with a few strategically placed torches casting a warm, flickering glow. Heavy curtains adorned the nearby windows, muffling the noise of the bustling feast and creating an intimate atmosphere. A plush, cushioned bench provided a comfortable place to sit, and a small table nearby held a tray of tarts.

Daenys took a seat on the bench, feeling the softness of the cushions beneath her. Lady Cassandra gracefully followed suit, a mischievous smile playing on her lips. 

"So, princess, was that the first of your appalling suitors?"

"Oh no, there were quite a few others, although none so forward as him. There was this one lord from House Redwyne who recited a poem he claimed to have written just for me," Daenys laughed, shaking her head. "But it was clear he had rehearsed it with a dozen others before. The poem mentioned the beauty of stars, flowers, and the ocean, and he kept stumbling over the verses. I thought I might have to rescue him from his own poem!"

Lady Cassandra joined in the laughter. "Ah, the poets are always the worst. They try to woo us with words they've borrowed from someone else's heart."

"And what about you, Lady Cassandra? Any particularly entertaining encounters this evening?"

"Oh, you have no idea. My father is on a mission to find me a suitable husband, but I've decided to make it as difficult as possible for him. There was a suitor from House Tarly who kept talking about his prized collection of beetles. Can you imagine? He went on for what felt like hours about the intricacies of different beetle species and their habitats. I almost fell asleep right there."

Daenys's thoughts instantly wandered to Helaena. 

"Beetles? That's a unique approach, I must say. Perhaps you might point him out to me later. I think I know someone who might appreciate the conversation."

 "As you wish, Princess."

"Oh do tell me more tales of your explorations, my lady. I am ever so curious as to how you manage to thwart these ridiculous men. My grandsire seems convinced he must find me a match too and I must learn from you if I am to evade him."

Lady Cassadnra's eyes sparkled as she leaned closer conspiratorially, "Worry not, princess, I shall teach you all I know. Oh! My father invited Lord Hollard over for dinner one evening and he seemed to believe that serenading me with bawdy songs was the path to my heart. He insisted on singing 'The Maiden's Delight' in front of the entire hall. I thought my father would choke on his wine."

Daenys's eyes widened, "Oh no, was your father alright?"

"Would have been for the best if he had if I'm being honest," Lady Cassandra mumbled under her breath. 

There was an awkward moment of silence when she realized what she had said out loud and Daenys quickly followed up with another question to distract her, pretending that she had not heard her original comment. 

"Oh, my! 'The Maiden's Delight'? That's positively scandalous. Did he even know the words, or was he just mumbling along?"

The mirth returned to Lady Cassandra's eyes, "I believe he made up half of them on the spot. It was so dreadful that all my sisters started giggling uncontrollably. I had to excuse myself politely so I wouldn't laugh in his face."

"That would not have been good."

"No, it would not. Either way, father wasn't too pleased. It's not my fault he keeps inviting over crude men with poor taste. You'd think he'd do better for this eldest. There was another lord who insisted on sending me letters filled with the most vulgar limericks."

Daenys clutched her stomach laughing, her earlier pains forgotten.

"No!" she gasped. "He did not!"

"I assure you, he most certainly did. I let my sister Maris respond to those letters. She has a sharper wit than I and is better at that sort of thing. He never wrote again."

"Oh, your sister sounds delightful!"

"She is quite a handful sometimes. All my sisters are, but such is the burden of the eldest I suppose."

Daenys nodded in agreement enthusiastically, "It is the same with my brothers. They can be quite mischievous but I adore them so."

As they sat together, Daenys and Lady Cassandra continued to chat, their voices lowered to keep their conversation private. The ambient murmur of the feast provided a soothing backdrop to their exchange, and Daenys felt a sense of camaraderie with her newfound friend. 

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"Perhaps you might dance as well, Aemond?" Queen Alicent's gentle voice brought Aemond out of his conversation with Helaena. "Who knows, there might be a young lady here who catches your eye."

His mother's words carried a subtle, knowing tone that made him feel like she was aware of far more than he would have liked her to know. He could sense the undercurrent in his mother's words. Her gaze was fixed upon him, and there was a certain expectation in her eyes as if she were trying to nudge him toward a particular path. He hesitated for a moment, considering the notion of joining the dancers, but then he shook his head, his expression guarded.

"I don't really feel like dancing, Mother," Aemond replied, his voice steady but his gaze distant.

Alicent's annoyance was thinly veiled as she responded, her tone slightly reproachful, "Aemond, you made it clear in the past that you wanted to put Daenys out of your mind. You vowed never to see her or hear from her again."

Aemond's jaw tightened, and he looked away for a moment, his gaze drifting back toward the dance floor where Daenys was still engaged in a dance with some lord. He had indeed made such vows as a foolish young child, and yet, despite his best efforts, he couldn't seem to rid himself of her presence in his thoughts.

Alicent's probing continued, and she leaned in a little closer, her tone more insistent as she pressed her son about joining the dance. Her words were laced with a mother's concern and a subtle hint of frustration.

"If you were to give another lady a chance, Aemond," she urged, "you might be surprised. There are many wonderful nobles in attendance today."

Aemond could feel the weight of her expectations, but he remained resolute, shaking his head once more. His voice, though respectful, carried an undertone of determination. 

"Not today, Mother. I have no interest in dancing."

Alicent's patience began to wear thin, and her frustration showed through. Her words became more pointed as she expressed her exasperation.

"After all my efforts," she snapped, "this is how you repay me? By going and getting your heart played with again?" She leaned back slightly, her gaze intense. "Then, Aemond, I'm not responsible for your heartbreak."

Aemond's suspicion was palpable as he fixed his gaze on his mother, who had inadvertently let slip a phrase that piqued his curiosity. 

"What do you mean by 'all your efforts,' Mother?"

Alicent's eyes widened slightly in realization, and she seemed to regret letting those words escape her lips. She quickly tried to backtrack, her tone a touch defensive as she said, "Oh, it was nothing, Aemond. Just a figure of speech, nothing more."

But Aemond wasn't satisfied with her vague response, and he pressed her further. His tone was firm, and he wanted answers. 

"Mother, you said 'all your efforts.' What did you mean by that?"

Alicent hesitated, her frustration growing apparent. She let out an exasperated sigh and finally retorted, "You're the one who said you never wanted to hear from Daenys again, Aemond! So I made sure you didn't. And now, with your actions, you're rendering all of my efforts useless."

"You did what?"

"I made sure you didn't hear from Daenys, just as you had asked me to."

A mix of emotions swirled within Aemond. Anger surged within him as he realized that his mother had been the reason he never received any of Daenys's letters. But intertwined with that anger was a sense of guilt, for he understood that his mother had believed she was fulfilling his wishes, even if she had gone to great lengths to do so.

Unable to contain his emotions, Aemond abruptly stood up from his seat, distancing himself from his mother's presence. It was a decision born out of a tumultuous mix of feelings, a desire to break free from his mother's well-intentioned but misguided actions. 

"See, it isn't that hard to listen to your mother once in a while," Alicent muttered after him.

She watched her son's departure, and couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction, believing that he was complying with her wishes, about to go and dance with a suitable noble lady, as she had hoped. 

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"And then-"

As Lady Cassandra halted mid-sentence and her expression shifted to one of unease, Daenys couldn't help but feel a sense of curiosity mixed with apprehension. 

"Is everything alright, Lady Cassandra?"

She followed Cassandra's gaze, turning to see what had caused her friend's sudden change in demeanour and there, standing behind her, was Aemond. His presence took her by surprise, and she could see the irritation in his expression. Daenys felt a strange mix of emotions, caught off guard by his sudden appearance and the intensity of his gaze directed at her.

"I should get going now, princess, my sisters must be looking for me."

"Oh, alright, if you must go," Daenys ventured reluctantly. "But it was so wonderful to speak to you. If you are still here tomorrow then I must invite you for some tea and a stroll in the gardens."

"Yes princess, it would be an honour. My father plans to stay in King's Landing for quite some time so I would love to spend more time with you."

Lady Cassandra, sensing the waves of tension radiating from the Targaryen prince, quickly excused herself, giving Daenys a polite nod before slipping away. Daenys watched her depart, her heart pounding in her chest. She turned back to Aemond, unsure of what to say or how to react.

"Why are you here?" Aemond's voice came out sharper than he intended, his eye locked onto hers.

Daenys swallowed hard, her nerves flaring as she met his intense gaze. "I could ask you the same question," she replied, her voice more composed than she felt.

There was the slightest furrow in her brow, invisible to anyone who did not know where to look, and Aemond cursed himself. He did not mean for his concern to be conveyed in such a harsh manner but something about simply being in her presence left him feeling out of sorts and struggling to compensate. 

He sighed, his irritation seeming to lessen, but his expression remained guarded. 

"I came to check on you. You disappeared and... you looked unwell."

Daenys felt surprised at his concern, but she couldn't deny the thrill of excitement that ran through her. 

"I'm alright," she assured him. "Just a bit overwhelmed by all the attention."

Aemond's gaze softened slightly, and he took a step closer to her. "You do look lovely tonight," he admitted, his tone less accusatory.

Daenys felt her cheeks flush at his compliment and she wondered if the lightheadedness she suddenly felt was due to his proximity. 

"Careful there," she teased. "Your death glare is slipping. I thought we decided that you were going to keep it on for my name day. You certainly have been successful so far, and we wouldn't want to ruin your victory streak now would we?"

"I never agreed to such a thing."

"You never objected to it either."

Aemond rolled his eye, "Aren't you supposed to be older now? How is it that you're still just as immature."

"You're not allowed to argue with me on my name day," Daenys stuck out her tongue. 

"You just proved my point."

"You just enjoy disagreeing with me!"

Aemond sighed, a smile pulling at the corners of his lips despite himself. 

"I mean it though..." he said after another awkward silence had settled over them. 

"Mean what?"

"That you look...well...nice."

Daenys leaned back on her elbows and raised an eyebrow at him playfully, "Nice? That's the best you can do? Do you know how many times I've been compared to flower fields and waterfalls tonight? You're going to have to do better than that, my prince."

She had called him my prince. She had called him hers. It was a slip of the tongue, he was certain. Nothing more than a teasing remark made in passing and he dared not examine it closer or examine the feelings that rose within him when she said that. The rest of her words stung though and he found himself wondering if she was indeed right. She deserved better. She who was all smiles and sunshine deserved someone who compared her radiance to that of the stars and the moon. At the very least she deserved someone whole. Aemond did not miss the apprehensive way the nobles of the court eyed him, nor did he miss the whispers that chased him. 

Such a pity, such a face marked by such tragedy. 

It makes him look quite frightening. 

Does he have the devil's eye under that eyepatch?

Can he even see with only one eye?

Even Aegon, with his scandalous remarks and behaviours, had found a few dance partners throughout the night and Helaena, confined to her seat on the dais, had found a friend in some fool from House Tarly who was babbling on about beetles and insects. After watching Daenys disappear with Lady Cassandra, Aemond had ventured onto the dance floor, half in the hope of finding his niece and half in the hope of casting her out of his mind. Not a single lady had approached him and he had even seen one flinch when he tried to approach her. That has put a firm end to all his efforts then. Still, he found himself wondering if he should stop approaching Daenys too. Selfishly he found himself hoping she'd reject all the suitors he knew his father would send her way. 

Unbeknownst to him, Daenys was watching his reaction closely, and it didn't escape her notice how his jaw clenched and his expression grew more tense. Her playful words seemed to hit a nerve, and she could sense his annoyance. His eye bore into hers, a mixture of frustration and something else she couldn't quite decipher. His silence spoke volumes, and for a moment, Daenys wondered if she had pushed him too far.

"I'm sorry. That was arrogant of me. You don't have to say anything of course. All those lords were foolish anyways, and their flattery was just empty words."

She felt a pang of guilt when the troubled expression on Aemond's face did not go away. She did not know what to do. It's not as if she could tell him that he did not have to say anything at all because she'd take just about anything he'd give her. The fact that he thought she looked nice sent delicious warmth spreading through her fingertips and cheeks. No, she could not say that to him, so she settled on the next best thing. 

Standing up from her seat, she offered him a deep bow and extended her hand, "Would you do me the great honour of sharing a dance with me this evening?"

Aemond looked surprised at her words, "Shouldn't we go back out there for that?"

"We can hear the music just fine from here. And besides, I don't really feel like facing anyone else right now."

Aemond hesitated for a moment, his gaze searching hers as if trying to decipher her intentions. But then he slowly nodded and took her outstretched hand, tentatively placing his hands on her waist, which Daenys reciprocated by resting her hands on his shoulders. The touch sent a subtle shiver down his spine, a feeling he couldn't quite ignore. They swayed gently to the more subdued music coming from the hall and Daenys closed her eyes, resting her head on Aemond's chest, feeling calmed by the reassuring rhythm of his heart. Aemond stiffened at her actions, trying to control his breathing because he didn't know what he'd do if she noticed the way his heart rate picked up just by being around her. 

"Does this mean we're friends again?" Daenys mumbled, almost sleepily. 

Aemond grinned as he looked down at her, "I wasn't aware that we ever weren't?"

Daenys swatted at him, "You didn't reply to my letters and you were avoiding me. I thought you didn't want to be my friend anymore."

Aemond didn't have the heart to tell her that he still didn't want to be her friend. He also did not want to bring up his mother and the fact that he never received her letters because of the petty childish rage that he directed toward her. Instead, he simply hummed in acknowledgement. 

"Yes, well, you have my deepest apologies for that."

"So? Are we friends again?" she gazed up at him, her eyes filled with a mix of hope and uncertainty.

Aemond met her gaze, and after a brief pause, he nodded, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his lips. 

"Yes, Daenys," he replied softly. "We're friends again."

Upon hearing his response, a sense of relief and joy washed over her. Daenys leaned into him, hugging him tightly, her arms wrapped around his waist. 

"I missed you," she whispered, her voice filled with genuine affection. "I was so scared that you didn't want to be my friend anymore and I...I didn't want to lose you."

Aemond's arms wrapped around her tighter, but as he continued to dance with her, he couldn't help but notice that Daenys seemed unsteady on her feet, her eyes heavy with fatigue. With great care, he gently disengaged from their embrace and held her at arm's length. 

"You should rest, Daenys," he suggested, his voice filled with concern. "You've had a long day."

Daenys shook her head, her eyelids drooping, "No, I'm alright."

She moved to take a step backward but then she stumbled. Ameond's hand shot out immediately to steady her and then he lowered her to the seat behind her. As he took a step back, he noticed the unsteadiness in her gaze and her waxy complexion, which seemed to have grown even paler.

"Daenys, are you feeling unwell? Are you drunk?"

Daenys looked a little offended at his question, and her response came with a hint of annoyance. 

"No, Aemond," she replied, her voice strained but resolute. "I'm not Aegon. I haven't touched a drop of alcohol all evening."

Aemond's concern deepened when he saw a sudden trickle of blood from Daenys's nose. It started as a small crimson line but quickly turned into a steady flow, staining her fingers as she brought them up to her face quickly.

"Oh, gods. Your nose is bleeding. Are you in pain?"

Daenys's expression twisted with discomfort, but she shook her head weakly, "No, I'm alright. Everything's fine, don't worry."

Aemond immediately fetched a handkerchief from his pocket and offered it to her. 

"Here, hold this against your nose," he instructed, trying to keep his voice steady despite his worry. "Should I get someone? Your mother perhaps? One of your handmaidens?"

"No!"

"But you need help!"

"You can't tell anyone!"

"But-"

"I said no! Please!"

Aemond was taken aback by her strong denial but he relented, gesturing for her to keep his handkerchief against her face. Daenys followed his advice, pressing the handkerchief against her nose to staunch the bleeding. Aemond watched her anxiously, his thoughts racing. 

"I think I need to go rest now. I do not want anyone else to see this. Would you tell them that I've gone to bed if they ask about me? Say nothing else, alright."

Daenys managed to summon the strength to stand, but her legs wobbled dangerously beneath her. Aemond couldn't hide his concern any longer as he watched her struggle to maintain her balance.

"Let me take you to your chambers."

"Oh no, I'm quite alright. You do not have to inconvenience yourself on my account."

She swayed precariously again and Aemond moved quickly. He placed one arm under her legs and the other around her shoulders, lifting her effortlessly into his arms. She leaned against him, holding the handkerchief to her nose as they began the slow journey toward her chambers.

"I said I could go by myself," she protested. 

"That's not what I saw," Aemond shot back. "And besides, we're friends now, aren't we? Friends let friends help them when they're not feeling well."

"I suppose if you put it that way..."

Aemond moved with care and steadiness, his steps measured to ensure Daenys's comfort. The sight of her pale, frail form in his arms only intensified his concern.

"Just keep that handkerchief in place, and make sure you don't bleed onto my clothes," he joked, keeping his tone light.

"Oh right, we draw the line there, right? Friends don't bleed out all over their friend's clothes."

"Yes. See, we're such good friends."

Aemond grinned at her and she leaned into him, unconsciously nuzzling into his chest as they made the trek to her chambers. 

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A/N: Not proofread at all cuz this is hella long lol. I did run it through Grammarly so like hopefully there are minimal typos. Also from this point onward we're gonna pretend that anything that happens in "an eye for an eye" is not canon cuz things are starting to contradict lol and I haven't had the chance to fix that story yet. I'll be doing a minor rewrite of it after I'm finished with this one just so everything matches up. I'll probably unpublish it for a while (later tho cuz its 2 am and I gotta go to bed lol I have 3 quizzes tmrw ;-;)

Anyways, as usual, please share your thoughts in the comments, I love reading them and they motivate me to write ⸜(｡˃ ᵕ ˂ )⸝♡