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Beneath The Silent Stars

Chapter 3: Aenar The Sweet

Summary: Aenar sulks in his chambers (aka he's depressed) then Aemma comes to visit him. She wants Aenar to take on new duties.

Warnings: mentions of pregnancy losses, grief, depression

Words: 2.2K

When he was a boy, they called him “Aenar the Sweet.” Little Aenar Targaryen was a shy boy, always hiding and preferring to stay in the shadows. He observed, he didn’t speak much, and he was absolutely terrified of strangers. Aenar wasn’t a problematic child per se, the young prince was too anxious to cause any real trouble, he was simply timid and had a difficult time around people.

And yet, he had the sweetest smile in the entire Seven Kingdoms. He would hide behind his good-sister, Aemma, whenever someone he didn’t know visited them at Dragonstone. And there was a sweet, endearing smile on his adorable little face, dimples and a pink flush on his cheeks. The ladies would always swoon when they saw him and he fluttered his eyelashes in return.

The nickname was fitting. For a while at least.

Where did that sweetness go? Aenar wondered as he laid on his bed, his expression blank and emotionless. He clutched a blanket to his chest, holding onto it as if he was a little boy again. His hair was tousled from sleeping, his chambers dim due to the curtains being closed. It was already midday.

The Prince didn’t think himself a bad man. On the contrary, he was aware that he was better than most. But he was a man grown now, no longer sweet, but instead someone who was often cold and bitter. Miserable. Lonely.

Yet, he didn’t want to change it. There were now new whispers about Aenar, people calling him the “Brooding Prince.” The name was well-deserved, he knew it, but it somehow bothered him. At times, when he was in the solitude of his chambers with nothing but his thoughts to keep him company, he still felt like Aenar the Sweet. Not the charming, but the scared child who hid himself from the world and dreamt with dragons.

And then, there was a knock on his door and a gentle, feminine voice called out. “Aenar? Are you in there?” The woman asked and Aenar took a soft inhale. Aemma. He knew that she would not leave him alone even if he turned her away.

“Come in, sister,” the Prince called out, still in bed, clutching his blanket.

The door opened and the Queen of the Seven Kingdoms stepped inside. Aemma furrowed her brows and blinked a few times, her eyes adjusting to the darkness in Aenar’s chambers. Her gaze searched for her good-brother and the Queen’s expression became one of concern when she found Aenar still in bed, in a position of vulnerability.

“What in the Seven Hells are you sulking about this time?” Aemma asked as she stepped closer to Aenar’s bed and sat down at the edge. Her voice carried no bite, but she was clearly worried about the younger man, who was always so good to her. “You haven’t left your chambers since yesterday, little brother. Not even to train or to join us for supper and the maids said you haven’t broken your fast yet.”

Aenar closed his eyes for a moment, his breathing quiet and even. In this moment, he seemed years younger. “It’s nothing,” he told her quietly. “I’m just resting, that is all.” It made him feel guilty, but a part of Aenar hoped that his good-sister would notice that he wasn’t telling the truth.

Sighing, Aemma shook her head in disapproval. “Aenar, I have known you since you were a boy, you cannot hide anything from me,” she told him and then shifted a bit on the bed. The Queen reached out and with a gentle hand, brushed the hair away from Aenar’s face with her fingers. She then touched his forehead, to see if he was ill by any chance, but his body temperature seemed normal. “What is it that has you sulking in the darkness, little brother? Did something happen?” She asked, her tone gentle and kind.

Aenar’s expression softened a little when Aemma brushed the hair out of his face and touched his forehead. Many times, it was the Prince who comforted the Queen, so it felt strange to be on the receiving end of such affection, but he welcomed the tenderness. “Nothing happened. I don’t know why I’m like this, I simply woke up feeling down and I didn’t have the energy to leave my bed.”

“Well, you must get up, little brother. There is much for us to discuss and you need to eat. I will ask the servants to bring lunch here, you are dining with me.”

The chambers of Prince Aenar were now properly lit and even his hair looked neat. With his good-sister, Aenar sat and ate at the dining table.

Who was he to refuse the Queen of the Seven Kingdoms?

While he chewed on the food that Aemma had the servants brought to his chambers, a part of Aenar felt guilty. Surely, the Queen had more important duties than dealing with the Prince’s childish behavior. He felt like a waste of time, a burden, and it clawed at his often unfeeling heart.

On the other hand, it felt good to be taken care of. To know that he was loved and that his good-sister, for whom he has always had a soft spot ever since he was a child. Aenar was only two years old, living at Dragonstone with his father and his two brothers when Aemma wedded Viserys at the age of eleven.

Aenar didn’t understand the wrongness of it for many years, he was too young, too innocent to wrap his head around it. His good-sister would often play with him, read him bedtime stories, and protect the little Prince when he was scared.

And when Aemma lost her pregnancies, it pained the boy to see her so sad, so broken. She would stay in her chambers and weep, mourning both the loss of her babes and the childhood she was robbed of.

Little Aenar would sneak into her chambers at night, the floors of Dragonstone cold against his feet, but he was determined to offer her the only comfort he could. So the boy would climb into his good-sister’s bed, he would cuddle her and kiss cheek, play with her hair, telling her how he loved her. And it helped, more than Aenar could ever tell or more than his child mind could understand.

It was a sweet gesture, one that Aemma appreciated and very much needed. She knew it shouldn’t have been Aenar’s responsibility to help her fight through the losses, but at least he was there, and his love was genuine. He cared more about her well-being than male heirs, unlike Viserys.

“You know, we have all missed you,” Aemma said after she took a sip of her wine, breaking the silence between them. “The Red Keep has been missing a certain warmth. It didn’t entirely feel like a home without you in it.”

“Warmth?” Aenar asked, a soft smile on his lips while he cut a slice of meat on his plate. Warmth, she said. The idea seemed ridiculous. “Are you sure you are talking about me, Aemma?”

“No, I meant your brother Daemon.” She rolled her eyes, slightly annoyed by his question. The Prince was too blind, too oblivious to see how much he meant to his family. “Of course I’m talking about you, Aenar. You can be a bit of a fool sometimes, but you are still our sweet prince. You should have left Driftmark years ago, I don’t even understand what kept you there,” Aemma said and Aenar was just about to protest, but she wouldn’t let him. “Don’t say a word, Aenar Targaryen. We want you here, with us, with your family. You are staying.”

Aenar opened his mouth then closed it. He released a small huff, but a smile was tugging at the corners of his lips. “Fine. But be careful what you wish for. Now if you ever want me to leave, you will have to kick me out and I will not go down without a fight.”

Queen Aemma chuckled and shook her head, not at all surprised by the Prince’s remark. “You are a fool if you think we would ever want to kick you out. Besides, we have plans for you.”

At that, Aenar raised an eyebrow while taking a sip of his wine. “Plans, you say? What kind, sister? Some diplomatic mission? Or am I to take on some new duties?”

“Ahh, new duties, yes,” Aemma began, smirking, and Aenar immediately knew that this would be more than he bargained for. “The duties of a husband.”

At that, Aenar almost choked on the piece of vegetable he was chewing on. “Husband?” He repeated. The word husband took the Prince completely by surprise and he was sure he had misheard his good-sister.

But Aemma smiled and nodded, confirming that Aenar didn’t mishear what she said. “Yes, you heard me correctly, little brother. I have been searching for a match for you. You are one and twenty, Aenar. Most men of your age are already married and have sired at least one child. You, on the other hand, have been too busy feeling up the wenches at Driftmark.”

“That’s not-”

“Don’t, Aenar, don’t try to deny it. Your cousin, Rhaenys, has told me everything. It is time you settled down, took a wife, and had some children, adorable nephews and nieces for me to spoil. I want little Aenars running around the Red Keep, screaming with their books and swords in their hands.”

The Prince placed down his knife and fork, his eyes fixed on the plate in front of him. The cogs in his brain were turning, but he didn’t know what to say. Marriage. It was something that has crossed his mind a thousand times before and he knew it would happen someday. He was a prince, a Targaryen. A political asset, not a person. It was his fate to marry, there was no way to avoid it. He used to dream of a love match, but Aenar knew it was just a childish fantasy, that in reality, his marriage would be an arranged one. It was a harsh truth that he had come to accept. Yet, the idea of taking a wife was not an unpleasant one. Unless the lady was not to his liking, which was always a risk with arranged marriages.

While he pondered, Aemma placed a hand on Aenar’s, her touch gentle, light, but warm as always. “Aenar… You have been unhappy, I know it. But it needn’t be this way. A wife would do you good, a kind, sweet wife, someone who would balance you out and bring out your strengths.”

Aenar looked at Aemma’s hand on his, keeping his silence for a moment longer before he asked, “Who? Who do you have in mind for me?”

The Queen’s eyes lit up and she gave Aenar’s hand a small squeeze. “Alicent Hightower. She is a sweet girl, Aenar. Alicent is kind, genuine, and intelligent. She has a good head, a good heart, and a spine too. A proper lady, someone who would match your wit and your caring nature. House Hightower is a powerful one, this match would benefit both you and the realm. And you have seen her, Aenar, you know she is a beauty.”

Hightower.

For a moment, Aenar pursed his lips together. It was a good match, he knew that too and he could clearly see the benefits of marrying the girl. When he spoke to Alicent, she was just the way Aemma described her, and Aenar would be lying if he said that the mention of Alicent’s name didn’t fill him with excitement. And he also trusted his good-sister. If she said that Alicent would be good for him, then Aenar knew that was the truth. But there was one slight issue. “She is the daughter of the Lord Hand.”

Aemma couldn’t help but chuckle at the Prince’s remark. “You are marrying the girl, not her father. Unless you wish to whisper sweet nothings into Otto Hightower’s ear on your wedding night.”

“Perhaps I could make him blush,” Aenar said with a soft smile, his mood lightening a little.

“Leave the blushing to Alicent, my darling Aenar.” Aemma patted his hand gently, her expression one of fondness. “So, what do you think? Will you consider Alicent as your bride? She is also Rhaenyra’s best friend, so that ought to help a little. Besides, you crowned her Queen of Love and Beauty at the tourney. That was quite the display of affection and don’t think that I don’t know about your little visit to the Royal Sept together. Word travels fast in King’s Landing.”

A sigh escaped Aenar’s lips. Marriage was not a decision he would make lightly, but Aemma wasn’t asking him to drag Alicent to the Sept immediately, just to consider her as a potential bride. Finally, the young prince nodded. “I will, sister. I will consider marrying Lady Alicent.”

#alicent hightower #hotd alicent #hotd #queen alicent #alicent x male oc #alicent x oc #alicent hightower x oc #alicent hightower x male oc #aenar targaryen oc

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captain-of-misery · 1 month

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Beneath The Silent Stars

Chapter 2: Mother

Summary: Aenar has a dream, then he goes to the Sept, where he is interrupted by Alicent. A small council meeting happens.

Warnings: blood, grief

Words: 2.6k

As one would imagine, the marriage of any Targaryen prince would be a grand affair. Lords and ladies from all of Westeros gathered in the Great Sept and Aenar looked behind himself. He saw his brothers, Aemma, Rhaenyra, and even his cousin, Rhaenys and her family standing behind him. Even the sight of all of his loved ones caused his heart to fill up with joy, but when he looked to his right, he was met with the High Septon.

Oh. So he was the groom. He knew that someday he would have to marry, but he never expected that it would be so soon. It seems like Viserys secured him a match quite soon, which annoyed Aenar a bit. He had barely stepped foot in King’s Landing and his brother is already marrying him off to some woman.

A wave of surprise washed over his face, especially when the High Septon placed a lady’s hand in his. Aenar tried to look at her, to see who she was, but he couldn’t quite make out her face, which made him feel a bit disappointed.

Her hands were soft, oddly warm, and…wet? The Prince’s gaze shifted to where their hands joined and saw that a thick, red liquid was dripping from her hand onto his, blood sweeping from her fingertips.

Aenar began to panic, worrying about the safety of his unknown bride. “My Lady…are you alright?” He asked her, but she didn’t answer his question.

The High Septon tied their hands together and Aenar tried to protest, to stop the ceremony and get help for his lady, but as soon they were joined, the bleeding began to stop. First, it only slowed down and within seconds, there was no more blood, and the wounds that remained on her fingertips began to heal under his gentle touch. "In the sight of the Seven, I hereby seal these two souls, binding them as one, for eternity. Look upon one another and say the words.”

And when he was about to look at his bride’s face again, he finally woke from his dream.

Father, Smith, Warrior, Mother, Maiden, Crone, Stranger.

Father. Mother.

Mother.

Aenar sighed as he stood in the Royal Sept. He stared at the skull of Balerion for a long moment before returning his gaze to the burning candles in front of him. He took a deep breath, inhaling their scent and a sense of peace washed over him.

He liked it there. The Sept was quiet, undisturbed, and it had a holy, unexplainable feeling to it that filled Aenar’s heart with much-needed strength. Most days, he preferred to withdraw and dwell on the things he had lost or never had, but sometimes even the Seven can’t help the lonely and miserable. He cracked the fingers on both his hands, perhaps without even realizing it.

“Your Grace.” A sweet, soft voice called out for him. It was familiar, but not familiar enough for Aenar to immediately recognize. He turned from the candles to face the lovely lady behind him.

His eyes lit up when he finally saw her and his lips curved into a smile. “Lady Alicent. What a delight it is to see you. May I ask what brings you here?”

The lady smiled back at him and took a few steps closer. She picked up a candle and walked up to Aenar. “I came to pray, my prince. A-are you here to speak to the Gods as well?” The young woman appeared to be quite nervous, but Aenar would be lying if he said he wasn’t feeling the same way.

“Something like that,” Aenar chuckled. He wasn’t the perfect example of a pious man, but, for a Targaryen, he appeared to be quite religious and he certainly had his strong opinion about the Faith. “I came for solace. I have come to realize that it is something I can find in the Sept. It’s almost like I’m in the presence of something sacred.”

Alicent made her way to the altar and placed down her candle, lighting it with another one. “Sacred is a good word. I feel like the Gods are listening here.” Then she remained there with her hands clasped together.

Aenar nodded in agreement, but then he realized that Alicent couldn’t see it, so he moved to stand next to her. Here, in the Sept, staying so close to her felt different. During the feast, everyone was watching, but this time, it was just the two of them. Some would find the situation highly inappropriate, an unwed maiden and a man, but Aenar had no intention of disrespecting Lady Alicent in any way. And just like Alicent, the prince placed his hands on the altar. “Yes and it fills my heart with something I can’t explain.”

“The Gods don’t need to explain themselves,” She said and looked up at the young prince. With her skin illuminated by the candlelight, she was even more beautiful. “It is us, humans, who need to understand everything.”

The Prince was taken aback by her words. It was refreshing to talk to a lady of such wisdom and intelligence. He often found many people lacking in that regard and Prince Aenar valued a good conversation more than anything. “Well, then I’m afraid we have to trust the Gods,” Aenar said with a sigh. He wasn’t sure if he believed in his own words. The Gods had an interesting way of thanking him for his devotion. “They are kind, but sometimes cruel too.”

“Indeed. The Gods can give life and they can take it away too.” Then, for a moment, there was silence between them. It was comfortable, but Alicent was suddenly reminded of the painful loss she had to endure. “My mother,” Alicent gulped, trying to swallow the painful lump in her thought as she remembered her. “She passed away recently. When I’m in the Sept, I feel close to her. I know it’s-”

“I understand,” Aenar said and gave her a warm smile, but there was a hint of sorrow in his gaze, Alicent could see it. “My own lady mother died too. A few times, I have tried praying to the Mother, but I never know what to say. So I just stay here, in silence, and hope that she understands.”

Alicent felt a mixture of pain and warmth in her heart. So Aenar lost his mother as well, which meant that he understood her pain more than anyone else. At court, no one seemed to relate to her. Rhaenyra had very little concern for Alicent’s loss and her father had only become more distant after the passing of his lady wife. Perhaps Prince Aenar would understand the terrible ache, this burden, this shadow that hangs above her head at all times. And so, Alicent placed a comforting hand on his arm. She knew it wasn’t exactly appropriate, but she desperately hoped for someone to understand her. Her father would be fuming if he found out that she was alone with a man and that she willingly touched him.

She had prayed to the Gods many times, to give her someone who understands, to ease this ache that she so desperately wants to rid herself of. She begged the Gods for a person like him. “Maybe your mother is watching you from above, from the heavens,” Alicent said, trying to comfort him.

At that, Aenar laughed a little, but Alicent could hear the hint of sorrow in his voice. The prince never knew his mother, but he had heard stories from other people. “Oh, no, definitely not,” Aenar said and shook his head. “She was a loud and rowdy woman, a warrior and a dragonrider. Well, from what people told me. If she is anywhere now, it is definitely not in the heavens.”

“I don’t know. Maybe the Gods aren’t as strict as the septons and septas preach. My mother was the opposite.”

The Prince’s gaze shifted to where Alicent was touching his hand. In the dimly lit Sept, it took him a moment to see it, but his eyes wandered to her fingers and immediately went wide. The skin around Alicent’s fingertips was injured, painful, and bloody. He stared for a moment before looking into her eyes and Alicent began to pull away her hand in embarrassment. Aenar reached out and took her hand in his, feeling a slight tremor in her soft, delicate touch. “Tell me about her. What was she like?” The Prince asked with a smile, but his thoughts were running wild. He couldn’t help but remember the dream he had the previous night and the bride with blood dripping from her fingers.

The young lady thought for a moment before replying. Aenar held her hand and she was surprised by the tenderness of his touch. He was a large man, perhaps one would call him intimidating, but his touch was warm and gentle, not at all what she would have expected. Maybe Rhaenyra was right about him. “My mother was kind. Very kind,” Alicent said and Aenar let go of her hand, allowing the lady to express herself. “She always had time for me, unlike my father. Truly a remarkable woman. Caring, sweet, and wise. She was pious as well and she always told the best bedtime stories. She taught me everything about what it is to be a lady.”

Aenar’s eyes lit up as he listened to Alicent talk about her mother. “Sounds like she was a wonderful person. You are much like her.”

The unexpected compliment caught Alicent off-guard and she felt a wave of shyness wash over her. She looked away in embarrassment, her cheeks flushed, but Aenar could see the small smile that appeared on her face. “Oh, no, I am not. You flatter me, my prince, but I could never be like her.”

Surely, the lady was just being modest. Aenar could already tell she was much more worthy of her attention than any of those women who kept staring and giggling at him during the feast. “Why not? I have not known you for long, but you certainly are a sweet girl. Besides, aren’t you her daughter? And while I’m certain you took after her in more terms than just your beauty, perhaps the next time you look at yourself in the looking-glass, you will see that you are much more like her than you realize.”

Besides, Aenar remembered Lord Otto Hightower from a few interactions in his childhood. The man was always grumpy and strict, and while it was difficult to imagine a kind and caring lady wife by the Hand’s side, Alicent certainly was her mother’s daughter.

“You are too kind, my prince.” Alicent continued to blush, attempting to hide her delightful smile by staring at the altar of burning candles in front of her instead.The Prince certainly had a way of making a simple lady feel like the loveliest bloom in the garden. She waited a moment for her flush to subside before she looked at Aenar again.

She didn’t speak immediately. Alicent took her time gazing at the prince, who was currently eyeing the skull of Balerion with great determination. He was likely deep in thought and Alicent couldn’t help but notice how handsome he was with his silver hair and green eyes. He was taller, but his face looked much like his brothers’ and Alicent found him even more good-looking than Daemon. Aenar’s face was a bit softer and he had a sense of calmness to him that Daemon lacked. Strangely, Alicent felt a deep longing to reach out and touch his face, to run her fingers through his hair, but she pushed away the thought as soon as it crossed her mind.

Eventually, the Prince noticed her staring at him and turned his attention to her. There was nothing hostile or judgemental in his expression, only the slightest bit of surprise, but Alicent couldn’t help the blush that crept up her face. “W-would you like to pray with me?” She tried to look into his eyes as she asked, but they were far too intense or perhaps she was far too shy to hold his gaze.

“I’m afraid I don’t really know how,” Aenar shrugged, slightly embarrassed.

The lady’s face lit up at the opportunity, relishing in the idea of sharing this moment with him. “That’s okay, my prince. I can teach you.”

Aenar nodded in return, a soft smile on his face. “Please do.”

“Your succession is in question, Your Grace,” Otto Hightower said with the usual stoic expression on his face. “It is quite unlikely that the Queen would give you a son or any children at all.” His words were painful, but true. Queen Aemma had lost five babes in twice as many years and it was clear that the King would never sire another one that might live. “But Prince Daemon is not fit to rule, we all know that.”

“The King has a child, Lord Otto. Her name is Princess Rhaenyra,” Grand Maester Mellos informed the small council members and some were nodding in response.

“My daughter has no interest in the throne, I assure you,” King Viserys said, his voice displeased. He truly was in a difficult situation. “She would much rather eat cake all day than sit here. Besides, no woman has ever sat the Iron Throne, especially when there is a male claimant available.”

“There is another option,” said Lord Corlys.

“Another option?”

The Lord of Driftmark’s eyes beamed as if he was sure he had found the perfect solution to every problem in the Seven Kingdoms. “Aenar Targaryen.”

“But the Prince is third in line. The succession should be settled between the Princess and Prince Daemon.”

“Neither of them are fit to rule,” Lord Otto said and again, there was truth in his words. If it wasn’t for Daemon’s temper and Rhaenyra’s disinterest in her duties, the succession wouldn’t be such an issue. You think Prince Aenar would be the answer to our problem, Lord Corlys?”

“I do, my lords,” The Master of Ships claimed, seemingly sure in his opinion. “I have known Prince Aenar since he was ten-and-one. He is an honorable young man with sharp wits and an honest heart. You’ve seen him fight during the tourney and I’m sure His Grace could assure you of his other good qualities.”

But the problem was, Viserys didn’t know his youngest brother too well. “He was…a very good boy during his childhood,” The King tried to mask his embarrassment with a forced smile. When the Old King died and Viserys was crowned, Aenar was sent to Driftmark and that was the last time Viserys saw him until his recent return. Aenar wrote to him at first, informing his eldest brother of his doings and the things he had learned, but perhaps Viserys should have sent him a few responses as well. Now the King was beginning to see his mistake.

“I imagine it would be a great honor to your House if your ward sat the Iron Throne, Lord Corlys,” Otto Hightower told him in a slightly mocking tone.

“Aenar has my vote,” The Lord of Driftmark said firmly. He knew Aenar better than anyone in the room and he was sure that the prince would make a more suitable ruler than his niece or his brother. “I know him and I’m certain that with time, you will learn to understand. Just give him a chance and he will not disappoint you.”

#alicent hightower #hotd alicent #hotd #queen alicent #alicent hightower x oc #alicent hightower x male oc #aenar targaryen oc #alicent x oc #alicent x male oc

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captain-of-misery · 4 months

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Baneath the Silent Stars

Chapter 1: Mystery Knight

Summary: A mystery knight won the tourney, only to reveal himself as the most unexpected visitor. Prince Aenar Targaryen, youngest brother of King Viserys and Prince Daemon. And the man who crowned Alicent Hightower the Queen of Love and Beauty.

Warnings: violence, mentions of sex, Aenar being a bad dancer

Aemma lives, btw.

Words: 6.1k

Tourneys were never Alicent’s favorite. In fact, she found them quite boring and also disturbing at times. The men behaved like brutes, hungry for a fight and she wanted to run away and hide whenever there was as much as one drop of blood being shed. But she had to be there. As a member of King Viserys’ court and Princess Rhaenyra’s closest confidant, she didn’t just have to be there, but she got a front row seat in the royal box. A blessing and a curse.

But this time, there was one man who stood out. He sat on a dark stallion, wore a grim, black armor decorated with red. And the cape on his right shoulder, like a cloth dipped in blood, was carried by the wind whenever he lunged forward and clashed with his fellow knights. He was as silent as the night and as unyielding as its darkest hour.

“A mystery knight?” Rhaenyra asked. Unlike Alicent, the Princess quite enjoyed watching all those brave men fight.

“It appears so,” Lady Alicent answered. “He calls himself the ‘Knight of Silent Stars,’ but you would know that if you weren’t late. Again.”

“Not like I care. You sound just like my mother when she scolds me,” The Princess Rhaenyra said and as she spoke, the mystery knight unhorsed his opponent. “Seems like he has quite a talent.”

“That’s the fourth knight he has unhorsed so far.”

“I wonder who he might be. Maybe he is rather handsome under all that armor,” Rhaenyra giggled, causing Alicent to release a sigh in response. And there was the reason Rhaenyra enjoyed tourneys far more than her friend.

“That armor has the colors of House Targaryen,” The Lady Alicent stated her observation. “Do you know him? Could that be Prince Daemon?”

“Targaryen?” Rhaenyra leaned forward in her seat, taking a good look at the knight. “He does not look like Daemon, his armor is different too. I have no idea who else that might be.”

“I suppose we shall see then.”

The tourney went on. The crowd cheered as the knights continued to compete against each other. By the commands of King Viserys, First of His Name, it was a grand affair with many great houses and noteworthy representatives present. Still, an event that Alicent would have much preferred to avoid.

But despite her lack of enthusiasm for such unnecessary violence, Alicent watched one man with growing interest. The Knight of Silent Stars. What a curious name. Somehow, Alicent always found mystery knights a bit intriguing. She couldn’t help the wonder that washed over about who he might be. The son of a lord, maybe? Or maybe he is a commoner, that’s why he didn’t dare show his face.

The Knight of Silent Stars unhorsed opponent after opponent and Alicent found herself more and more in awe. He really was silent, true to his name. He never said a word, just kept fighting with grace and honor. No, he was certainly not a commoner. There was something to him, he held himself almost like royalty.

At some point, Alicent began to hope he would win. Finally, there was a knight who fought with honor and respect, truly a rare sight. But there was one more opponent left: Prince Daemon himself. Well, at least now it was certain that the mystery knight and Daemon were not the same person.

Alicent felt a sense of worry. Daemon was never known for playing fair. As the Prince and the knight readied themselves for the clash of horses and lances, Rhaenyra reached for Alicent’s hand, reminding her to stop picking the skin around her fingernails. She hadn’t even noticed that she was doing it.

“The Knight of Silent Stars?” Prince Daemon scoffed, trying to intimidate the mystery knight. “That’s the stupidest name I’ve ever heard.”

But there was no answer from the other side and before Daemon could have said more insults, the joust began. Alicent held her breath, her fingers trembling as she watched.

The two men lowered their lances, aiming them at each other before they clashed and Alicent had to close her eyes. She heard the sound of metal slamming against the ground and hundreds, possibly thousands of gasps.

When Alicent finally dared to look, she saw Prince Daemon lying on the ground, cursing to himself in High Valyrian, and the Knight of Silent Stars still seated on his horse. Alicent expected a more violent reaction from Daemon, but it didn’t happen. Perhaps the Prince knew something.

The crowd cheered, congratulating the mystery knight on his victory. Yet, he remained quiet. His first action was to gallop to the royal box on his horse and give the King, his family, and the important lords and ladies a bow. How honorable of him.

And then a wreath of beautiful flowers was placed on the tip of the knight’s lance. He won and now he was to choose his Queen of Love and Beauty, it was within his right as the tourney champion. From behind his helmet, Alicent could barely make out a pair of eyes. First, his gaze landed on Queen Aemma. She would have been a fine and polite choice, but then he looked at Rhaenyra, another respectable choice. He stared for a moment, his gaze shifting for a moment and Alicent could swear she saw his eyes widen.

Oh no. Not me. Please, not me. Choose Rhaenyra or anyone else, but not me.

He raised his lance almost agonizingly slowly, as if he was purposefully torturing all the ladies present, and dropped the wreath on the lap of Lady Alicent Hightower.

Alicent stared at the flowers on her thighs, her mouth and eyes open in shock. It was flattering, really, no one had ever chosen her as their Queen of Love and Beauty. The mystery knight’s attention was a welcomed one and Alicent almost wanted to giggle. However, she knew that everyone else was looking too, her own father included and Alicent didn’t like that.

“Seems like someone has a fan,” Rhaenyra giggled, grasping her friend’s arm affectionately and Alicent’s blush only deepened. She could hear someone from behind saying that the knight made a fine choice. Hopefully, her father wouldn’t be too bothered by it.

Alicent reached for the wreath on her lap, her quivering and bloody fingertips brushing against the flower petals. She finally looked at her mystery knight who was staring right up at her. She opened her mouth to speak, but her lips were trembling. “Thank you,” She mumbled under her breath and it was a miracle if the knight could hear her at all. Still, he offered her a deep bow.

Finally, King Viserys stood from his seat, addressing the mystery knight. “You have fought bravely and earned your victory, Ser. Might we know who you are?”

For a moment, the knight stayed silent, remaining true to his fashion. “I am no Ser,” He said, his smooth, raspy voice certainly causing a shiver to run down every lady’s spine. Alicent’s included. She watched with keen interest, eager to learn the identity of this knight. He crowned her his Queen of Love and Beauty, so of course she wished to know who he was.

The Knight of Silent stars reached for his helmet, his armored fingers attempting to take it off. Thick locks of silver hair poured down to his shoulders and his gaze went immediately to the royal box. He glanced at a beautiful lady of auburn hair and sparkling brown eyes for a moment longer than he should have before finally gracing the King with his attention. “I am a prince.”

The King stared at the knight with his mouth hanging open, his expression quickly turning from shock to joy as he recognized the young dashing man. “Aenar! Brother!”

The King’s brother. The youngest one, not Daemon. Alicent had heard of Prince Aenar before. A few years ago, when the King and Rhaenyra had an argument, the Princess went to the Dragonpit and flew to Dragonstone on Syrax’s back. There her youngest uncle welcomed her with open arms and he made sure she returned shortly and safely, for which Alicent was very grateful. After that, Rhaenyra spent all day talking about him and Alicent almost believed that her friend had a crush on her uncle. Other than that, not much else was known about the young Targaryen prince. No scandals, no rumors, and no nothing. Sometimes Alicent wondered if he existed at all or Rhaenyra made him up to mess with her friend.

It was said that they grew up together, Rhaenyra and Aenar. Of course, Aenar was a few years older than her, but wherever little Rhaenyra went, Prince Aenar followed to make sure she wouldn’t get into too much trouble. The Princess often described her youngest uncle as the sweetest man in the Realm with a slight twist of Targaryen cheekiness.

But how could Alicent know that?

Certainly, she was intrigued by the mysterious Prince, especially after he made her his Queen of Love and Beauty. It didn’t help that he looked into her eyes earlier at the tourney. Gods, even recalling the memory caused her heart to skip a beat. Even from the field, his gaze was as piercing as a dragon’s fire.

Naturally, as it was common during King Viserys’ reign, a feast followed the jousting. A wave of nervousness washed over the young Hightower when she glanced at the empty seat next to her. On her other side was Rhaenyra, who was sitting next to Queen Aemma, followed by the King in the middle, then her father, the Lord Hand, and the other members of the small council.

Perhaps Prince Aenar wouldn't come at all. Maybe he left. Maybe he was currently somewhere else, doing whatever men do after a day of jousting. Men liked to do their own thing and Targaryen men were even worse, Alicent knew that. Prince Aenar was probably roaming the Street of Silk, doing only the Gods know what men are up to there. Alicent didn’t know what that was exactly, only that it was no place for a delicate young maiden like her. She had asked her father about it once, but was met with only a cold, disapproving stare, like the ones he gives her whenever she spends too much time around Rhaenyra or mentions Prince Daemon by accident. Alicent knew better than to ask again.

“My favorite niece!” Alicent heard an unfamiliar voice from behind and her heart was suddenly beating three times faster than it normally would. She watched as Rhaenyra turned to take a look toward the source.

“Uncle Aenar!” The Princess stood from her seat to greet her uncle. “I am your only niece.”

In the meantime, Alicent also stood up, but she kept her gaze off of the Prince. A man with such fighting prowess must be intimidating and fearsome, not someone Alicent would want to anger. But why didn’t he enter through the main doors? Maybe he just didn’t like attention, Alicent would understand that. She didn’t like using the main doors either. Too many eyes, too much attention.

“Well, that is exactly why you are my favorite,” The Prince continued and Alicent could hear the cheerfulness in his tone, still not having the courage to actually look at him. “If I had another niece, I fear your position as my favorite would be under great threat.” He pulled Rhaenyra into an embrace and pressed a kiss against her forehead. “I only jest, dear. The world wouldn’t survive another girl like you.” This time, his voice was softer, lighter, filled with a strange warmth that made Alicent’s stomach flutter.

“And who is this lovely lady?” Aenar asked as he turned to Alicent. Despite what the Prince did at the end of the tourney, this was their first time speaking to each other. Alicent couldn’t recall ever meeting him before.

“My name is Alicent Hightower, Your Grace.” There was a deep blush on her face as she answered, a clear indication of her nervousness around him. She bowed to him, her gaze still fixed on the floor.

“Lady Alicent,” The Prince said and when Alicent dared to look at his face, she saw that he was smiling at her. And oh, his eyes were mesmerizing. Like jade, green with a hint of brown. Alicent almost didn’t notice when he reached for her hand, his touch almost as delicate as a feather. He brought her hand to his lips and pressed a small kiss against it while looking into her eyes. By this point, Alicent thought she would faint. Her heart hammered in her chest and her face was redder than the wine they served at the feast.

“It is a pleasure to meet you, my Lady. I hope I didn’t disrespect you today,” He continued with a sweet, charming smile on his face and gently let go of her hand. Alicent wanted to answer, but never in her wildest dreams did she expect to be in a situation like this. First, a handsome young prince wins the tourney and crowns her Queen of Love and Beauty. And if that wasn’t already something out of a fairy tale, he was now talking to her. Gods . He even kissed her hand. She really hoped that her father wasn’t watching. She would certainly receive a lecture after the feast about the importance of resisting the charms of handsome men.

And Prince Aenar was certainly charming.

However, he must have noticed Alicent’s unease. His smile disappeared for a moment, almost as if he was desperately trying to come up with something before he continued. “I am pleased to know that Rhaenyra had someone to look after her in my absence. Tell me, has she given you much trouble? I’m quite sure she has.” In the meantime, they all took their seats with Rhaenyra and Aenar on each side of the young and frightened Alicent Hightower.

“She is a troublemaker indeed,” Alicent said with a polite smile, doing her best to not create an unpleasant atmosphere. But, Gods, she hoped he would not attempt anything dishonorable with her. Targaryen princes are not exactly known for being honorable.

“Did you two form an alliance against me or something?” Rhaenyra whined from Alicent’s other side.

The Prince chuckled in response. “We don’t need to. You brought this upon herself. I remember when Viserys was still a prince and we all lived on Dragonstone. If it wasn’t for me, the dragons would have eaten you.”

“Imagine explaining that to my father. But then he became king, you went to Driftmark, and I needed someone else to drag into trouble. That’s when Alicent came and took over your job.”

“She gets into a lot of trouble, my prince. Some days I can’t keep her out of it. The other day, she was late from a small council meeting because she much prefers to ride her dragon.” Alicent giggled and then she turned to Aenar. She gazed into his eyes and for a moment, she found herself breathless by the sight of those two jade orbs. Again. The smile he gave her was like honey. Sweet enough to charm any lady and Alicent had a feeling that Aenar’s presence would become the cause of much trouble in the future.

“Then thank the Gods for giving us Lady Alicent,” The Prince chuckled again and Alicent could feel her cheeks heat up. “What would my little niece do without you?”

Alicent had no time to answer, not like she knew what to say, but they were approached by the son of some distant lord. “Princess Rhaenyra, might I have this dance?”

The Princess turned to Alicent, giving her an annoyed look before she looked at the man asking her to dance again. “Of course.” And with that, Rhaenyra rose from her seat and made her way to the dance floor.

Anxiety rose in Alicent’s stomach as she was left alone with Prince Aenar. For a minute, neither of them spoke and the awkwardness in the air was so thick they could have cut it with a knife. The silence between them was deafening.

Both Alicent and Aenar returned to their plates, taking a few bites and sipping wine before the Prince cleared his throat and took a deep breath, addressing the young woman next to him. “Do you like to dance, Lady Alicent?”

Alicent’s eyes widened slightly at the Aenar’s question, a part of her hoping that he wouldn’t ask her and another that he would. Her eyes were still fixed on her plate as she answered his question. “I do, my prince.”

“I don’t,” Aenar said and then raised his cup to take a sip of his wine. If he doesn’t like to dance, then why did he bother to ask? “I wouldn’t ask a lady to dance with me unless I was really interested in her. Sadly, I can already sense some eagerness from a few ladies at this dreadful feast.”

“Dreadful? You dislike feasts?” Alicent couldn’t say that she had a liking for feasts either. At least Rhaenyra made them feel tolerable. Well, when she wasn’t busy dancing with some lord.

“Never was much interested in them. While I quite like music, it is too loud. And there are far too many people for my liking. I only came for the food,” Aenar admitted, causing Alicent to chuckle. Maybe he wasn’t so bad, after all.

“The food certainly makes it more tolerable, Your Grace. And it is quite honorable that you would not dance with a lady unless you had a genuine interest in her. Not everyone shares the same sentiment.”

“It is unfortunate, really,” The Prince turned his gaze from Alicent and his eyes searched the room. There were many lords, ladies, and knights present. He took a good look at each of them, taking note of how some of the guests present were staring back at him. He knew why. A Targaryen prince, a man grown. He won a joust and he was handsome. The lords of the Realm are eager to wed their daughters and granddaughters to him for the sake of political advantage. “People in King’s Landing can be so…shallow. I have forgotten what it’s like.”

“When was the last time you were here?” Alicent asked him. “I don’t remember ever seeing you.”

He smiled at her, but there was a hint of sadness in his expression. “Well, I was here when my brother got crowned and before that, when my father died and yours became Hand.”

Alicent immediately regretted her question. And speaking of Hands, Otto Hightower suddenly appeared in front of them, looking quite displeased. “Your Grace,” He greeted the Prince in his usual stern, gloomy voice. “I see you and my daughter have become acquainted.”

“Oh, yes, Lord Otto. I was just telling your lovely daughter about how a follower of the Seven would remain true to their faith in and outside of the Sept,” Aenar said with a broad smile and Alicent couldn’t help the blush that deepened her already red cheeks. Well, this Aenar Targaryen seemed like quite a bold man. She didn’t even pay much attention to what he was saying because only the word ‘lovely’ kept repeating itself in her mind. Right in front of her father.

“You see, my lady,” Aenar turned his attention back to Alicent with newfound interest while Otto Hightower watched and listened. What was the Prince trying to achieve with this? “Many go to the Sept often, some every day, but as soon as they come outside, they go back to sin and dishonor. If they actually believed in the Gods, they would not need to spend half of their lives praying on their knees, begging for forgiveness because of whatever they committed. They would simply live by the teachings of the Seven and behave with honor and diligence.”

Alicent felt something beneath her feet. She quickly glanced under the table and saw that it was Prince Aenor bouncing his leg up and down. By the Gods, the Prince was nervous! Alicent almost chuckled. This was quite endearing and Alicent felt a sense of understanding wash over her. She had her own nervous habit and seeing that such a strong, brave, and handsome prince was trembling beneath the table made her feel a little less alone and a little more normal. But what was making him so nervous?

Otto raised an eyebrow and Alicent couldn’t yet tell if her father was amused or currently trying to make Aenar stay away from her. “I must say, Prince Aenar, you are quite right. However, do you go to the Sept often?”

“Sometimes,” Aenar answered. “As I said, I don’t need to spend my entire day praying.”

“And why is that, my prince?”

“I often see people asking the Gods for help. Instead of working for what they want, they think that the Gods will give it to them if they pray often enough. The only times I go to the Sept are when I want to show gratitude.”

“So you would rather work than beg the Seven for a blessing?” The Hand asked and the Prince only nodded in response. Lord Otto maintained a neutral expression, but Alicent could tell he was impressed by what Aenar said. He was simply too proud to admit it. “We go to the Grand Sept quite often. Perhaps Prince Aenar would like to join us?”

The Prince remained silent, quite obviously uninterested in joining Otto, for which Alicent really couldn’t blame him. But perhaps he would like to join Alicent. The lady was sweet, perhaps a little nervous, but Aenar didn’t mind that. The other ladies stared at him as if he was a prey during a hunt, so Alicent’s more reserved nature was like a cooling breeze during summer. And she was quite comely as well. He was yet to take a good look at her, but Alicent’s doe eyes made his heart beat a little faster whenever she gathered enough courage to stare directly into his.

So it was either both or neither.

Gods damn it, Aenar. You brought this upon yourself.

Aenar smiled, most likely out of politeness and finally gave the Hand the answer he desired. “Of course, Lord Otto. I would be delighted to join you.”

“You honor me, Your Grace. Well, then I’ll leave you two. Enjoy the feast.”

Alicent released a sigh of relief as soon as her father was at a far enough distance. However, she couldn’t help but ask Aenar a small question. “How did you know he is religious? My father, I mean.”

“From my brother,” He admitted. “Daemon has told me much about him.”

Alicent couldn’t say she was delighted to hear that, but then, from the corner of her eye, she saw Princess Rhaenyra motioning for her. “F-forgive me, I think Rhaenyra wants something.”

Prince Aenar gave her a nod and Alicent left to join her friend. While the Prince remained in his seat and was about to happily indulge himself in the contents of his place, he felt a hand touch his shoulder.

“Little brother,” King Viserys said, a warm smile gracing his features. He sat down on Alicent’s chair, giving Aenar his full attention. Being called little brother brought a strange warmth to Aenar’s heart. He missed his family dearly. “You fill my chest with pride. Good job at the tourney today.”

Aenar would be lying if he said he didn’t like his brother’s praise. “Thank you, brother. I was hoping to make you proud.”

“Your return to King’s Landing has been well-received,” Viserys informed his youngest brother. “If you wish to stay, we would be more than happy to have you.”

Aenar nodded, pleased by the idea of remaining in King’s Landing, at least for a while. “I would like that. We have been apart for too long. I wish to stay by your side, brother, and aid you in any way I can.”

“Good,” Viserys said with a smile, delighted by Aenar’s response. He didn’t expect anything less from the prince, knowing he was more dutiful than Daemon ever was. “I could always use more people I can trust. You should accompany me to the small council meetings and then we’ll see if there are any tasks for you.”

“That sounds wonderful, thank you.”

Then there were some giggles, catching the attention of both the Prince and the King. Aenar was met with several pairs of eyes gazing at him, all of them belonging to a group of gossipping women. Aenar couldn’t help but feel uneasy from the attention, but then Viserys turned back to his brother, now with something cheeky in his expression. “It seems like you have caught the ladies’ attention.”

Aenar rolled his eyes, visibly unhappy by the attention. “Yeah, I certainly have.”

Viserys laughed in return, leaning closer to his brother. “Aenar, this is every man’s dream!” It was almost every man’s dream, Aenar thought to himself. Certainly not his.

Aenar never liked whores. Daemon brought him to a pleasure house as soon as he was old enough and he already decided that he would avoid the Street of Silk for the rest of his life. Of course, he was no saint, he had his conquests. Not as many as some people thought he had, but still, Aenar had known a few women in his life, as was expected of a prince.

He liked to work for the ladies and had little respect for those who simply threw themselves at his feet. Of course, he understood why they did it. But the harder he worked for a lady, the sweeter she was.

And Aenar loved sweet women. He’s just never met any worthy of his affections.

“Yours, perhaps. Quite honestly, brother, I would much prefer to take a lady wife,” The young prince admitted and he could see the shock and then the joy on his brother’s face.

“You do? Well, that is a pleasant surprise! Finally, a brother who wishes to do his duty. If you’d like, I could arrange a potential match for you. Or is there anyone who has caught your eye, little brother?”

Aenor’s eyes widened in horror. His brother made it sound like he would wed Aenar to the first suitable lady in a fortnight. “Hold your horses, Viserys, I’ve only just returned. I will keep my eyes open and let you know if there is anyone. I am not in a rush.”

Pursing his lips, Viserys nodded. “Of course. But do let me know if you have found yourself a bride and remember that you are a prince of the Seven Kingdoms. Your lady wife must be of high birth. A maiden befitting your station.”

“I understand. I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

“Good,” Viserys stood and patted his brother on the back. “Now enjoy yourself, Aenar. You deserve it.” The King returned to his seat and Aenar was left alone once again.

The Prince went back to his plate with the hopes of no one disturbing him. He really was just here for the food and, so far, he barely managed to get a few bites. After a minute or two, he reached for his cup and raised it to his lips, taking a sip of his wine.

As Aenar drank, he saw two figures from the corner of his eye. When he put the cup down and looked, he noticed that Lord Jason Lannister was talking to Lady Alicent Hightower, the very woman he crowned as his Queen of Love and Beauty.

Well, shit.

Now Aenar really had a chance to look at her and what a beauty she was. Had he known that Viserys had such beautiful ladies at his court, he would have returned to King’s Landing sooner.

From what Aenar could tell, Alicent was undeniably the most comely girl at court. She had a sweet smile and eyes with a light in them that could melt even the coldest hearts. When he first saw her during the tourney, he almost called the Maesters because his knees started bending on their own.

With or without Aenar crowning her, Alicent was desirable. She was a highborn lady with looks unmatched and as the Prince watched Jason Lannister talk to her, he couldn’t help but feel jealous.

Perhaps he shouldn’t have crowned her. He didn’t think of it when it happened, but now Aenar realized that it would only attract more suitors for Alicent. If a prince of House Targaryen thought she was good enough, then she was good enough for every other man as well.

Of course, it all made sense now. The young maiden seemed visibly uncomfortable by Lord Lannister’s presence and Aenar saw that she was fidgeting with her fingers.

Aenar did like her. Of course, she didn’t know her well yet. But, so far, she was the most promising lady in all of King’s Landing. He couldn’t deny that he was pretty and her nervousness around him was quite endearing. Aenar could also sense some playfulness from her, which only made her more appealing to him.

Tonight, if Aenar had to dance with anyone, it would be Alicent.

He glanced down at his food with a twinge of sadness, then he sighed and stood from the table. He might regret this later.

Aenar walked past the long table and he could swear he saw Viserys and Aemma giving each other a knowing look as he walked to where Alicent and the Lannister man were standing.

The lady was certainly trying to be polite, but Lord Jason had her cornered. Aenar had the displeasure of knowing him, so he really couldn’t blame Alicent for not wanting to be anywhere near him, but the man had a habit of bothering the fair maidens.

Aenar smiled to himself. Now he would become her knight in shining armor, her Prince Charming. For some odd reason, he quite liked the idea.

“And then there was this diamond necklace I had made for my mother-” As he approached, Aenar cleared his throat, cutting off the Lannister Lord mid-sentence.

“Lady Alicent,” Aenar said with a smile and nodded to the young lady.

“Yes, my prince?” Alicent sounded almost relieved to see him. If she had to choose between Prince Aenar and Lord Jason, he wouldn’t hesitate to run to Aenar’s arms. Maybe the Prince was a little grumpy and he was…unique, to say the least, but at least he was respectful and definitely more pleasant than Jason Lannister.

Aenar cleared his throat again. In fact, he cleared his throat so well that he ended up having to cough.

“Your Grace, are you unwell?” Jason Lannister turned to Aenar and asked, his voice having a slight mocking tone to it.

“No, no, Lord Jason. I assure you, I am alright.” Aenar gave the Lannister lord a small, forced smile before finally turning to Alicent, completely ignoring the man standing beside him. “Lady Alicent. Would you honor me with a dance?”

Alicent’s eyes widened in surprise. But…didn’t the Prince say that he disliked dancing? That he would only dance with a woman if he was really interested in her? “I-” She tried to find the right words, but she was too stunned. Did this mean that he had some interest in her? Or was he just trying to help her escape from the grasps of Jason Lannister? Either way, Aenar was her way out. “Yes!” Alicent said with more enthusiasm than she intended and she quickly regained her composure, giving the Prince a proper answer. “Of course, my Prince. I would be honored to dance with you.”

With a smile, Aenar extended a strong hand for her and Alicent gladly took it, leaving Jason Lannister all by himself. Prince Aenar led her to the dance floor and Alicent couldn’t help but once again feel surprised by the tenderness of his touch. As they came to a stop and turned toward each other, Alicent noticed how tall and strong Aenar was for the first time. A man like him could protect her from any harm. The thought was giving her butterflies in the stomach.

Aenar gulped as he put one hand on Alicent’s waist and held hers with the other. Gods, he wasn’t exactly the most graceful dancer. He was tense and nervous, and he did take dance lessons when he was younger, but he found it difficult to feel at ease and truly enjoy himself.

He looked down and saw that Alicent was smiling at him. Strangely, it made him feel a little less tense. The song began and so did their dance. Aenar was clumsy at first, while Alicent moved swiftly and lightly, each of her movements confirming that she was, indeed, a true lady. He tried to match her elegance and, to his surprise, quickly got the hang of it. He silently thanked the Seven for making him a fast learner.

However, the silence between them was slightly unpleasant and Aenar never liked awkward silences, so he began to talk. “I apologize, my Lady. I couldn’t allow Lord Lannister to bore you with…well, himself. The man can be quite egoistical.”

Alicent smiled at his comment, finding it quite amusing. If there was one thing certain about life, it was that Jason Lannister bragged about anything and everything regarding himself. “He certainly is. I don’t know what I would have done if I had to listen to a story about another one of his grand purchases.”

“Pay him no mind. He is not worthy of your attention.” Oh? But perhaps the Prince was?

Her cheeks flushed and she suddenly felt herself becoming a little nervous too upon noticing how close they were to each other. Prince Aenar’s body radiated warmth and strength and even Alicent couldn’t stay immune to it. She wondered how many of the other ladies were watching them, envious of her current position. “Thank you for coming to my rescue, Your Grace. You really didn’t have to do it, I know you don’t like to dance.” She felt grateful for what he had done for her and she felt touched by the gesture.

“Well, you were in trouble. I would be a terrible knight if I ignored a lady in distress.”

“Was I? Lord Jason and I were just talking. I would hardly call that trouble or distress.”

“You mean, he was talking and you were listening and smiling along.” His comment made both of them laugh and Aenar felt his breath get caught in his throat. It was as if he listened to the sound of all seven heavens at once. “Your laugh…and your smile...”

She looked at him, with that same, beautiful smile. Aenar had never seen such light, such magic in his life. “What of them, Your Grace?”

He instantly regretted it. He wanted to say something nice, to compliment her, to make her feel good, but he simply couldn’t bring himself to say it. “Nothing.” As Aenar spoke, the song and the dance came to an end. He could see the slight disappointment in Alicent’s eyes. He knew that he had made some awkward mistakes tonight and he didn’t know why, but he wanted to make up for them. “My Lady.” His cheeks were already flushed and he found it difficult to maintain eye contact with Alicent, partly because he was anxious, but mainly because he felt captivated by her.

“Yes, my Prince?” My Prince . Now that he thought of it, Aenar quite liked hearing it from her lips.

“I just wanted you to know that,” He paused for a moment, looked away and then back to Alicent. “I did see that you were uncomfortable in Lord Lannister’s presence, for which I cannot blame you, but…I-I wanted to dance with you.”

“Oh,” Alicent made a small sound. It was…surprising, to say the least. While Alicent knew she was fortunate enough to come from a good family, she didn’t feel like she was worthy enough of the attention of a prince. “I…Thank you. I am flattered, Your Grace.”

“Perhaps, you would honor me with another dance?” He offered his hand to her again, his smile warm and charming. “I promise I won’t step on your toes.”

She laughed and reached for his hand once more. “I would like that very much.”

#alicent hightower #hotd alicent #alicent hightower x oc #alicent hightower x male oc #alicent x oc #alicent x male oc #aenar targaryen oc

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