Targaryen Hearts Entwined: The Princess and The Pauper
pairing: Aemond Targaryen x Helaena Targaryen. slightly Jacaerys Valeryon x Helaena Targaryen. Jacaerys Valeryon x Female OC
summary: The Princess Helaena and the pauper Ariah have to survive the schemes of Larys Strong.
Word count: 8,3K
Warnings: Angst, manipulation, kidnapping, arrest
A/N: This is HEAVILY based on the Barbie movie Princess and The Pauper. There are some things that were changed and some facts that were also changed.
Masterlist 1
Masterlist 2
The chambers of the Red Keep were filled with the hushed whispers of seamstresses and the rustling of luxurious fabrics as Princess Helaena Targaryen stood before a full-length mirror. She wore a breathtaking gown of ivory silk, adorned with delicate lace and intricate beadwork. It was a wedding dress fit for a Targaryen princess.
Helaena’s mother, Queen Alicent, stood beside her, her eyes filled with maternal pride. King Viserys, Helaena’s father, watched from a distance, a thoughtful expression on his aging face. They believed this union was essential for the future of House Targaryen, a way to unite the fractured branches of the dragon’s bloodline.
“Such a vision of beauty,” Queen Alicent said, her voice soft but laced with expectation. “You will make a radiant bride, my dear.”
Helaena managed a demure smile but couldn’t hide the turmoil in her eyes. She had known this day would come, the day when her parents would arrange her marriage for political advantage. But the chosen groom was not the one her heart desired.
Jacaerys, her nephew and heir to the Iron Throne, was to be her husband. It was a match that would bind the two parts of House Targaryen, but it was not a match of love. Helaena’s heart belonged to her brother Aemond, a secret she guarded with utmost care.
As the seamstresses continued their work, Helaena stole a glance at King Viserys, hoping to catch a glimpse of understanding in his eyes. But his gaze remained fixed on her, and she knew she could never reveal her true feelings.
For the sake of her family, her house, and the realm, Helaena would don the wedding gown and marry Jacaerys, all while harboring the love she could never confess.
Her reflection in the mirror seemed to mock her, as if it knew the depths of her heart’s desires. The wedding preparations continued around her, each stitch of the gown a reminder of the path she was forced to tread.
Queen Alicent leaned closer, her voice tinged with the weight of expectation. “Helaena, my sweet daughter, you will bring honor and strength to our house with this marriage. The union of House Targaryen must be our utmost priority.”
King Viserys nodded in agreement, his eyes distant, lost in the intricacies of politics. “This is the path we must take, Helaena, for the future of our bloodline.”
Helaena’s gaze flickered between her parents, her heart heavy with the knowledge that her desires would forever remain unspoken. She would never disappoint her parents, especially her mother, who had orchestrated this union with a meticulous hand.
Her thoughts drifted to her brother Aemond, the one person who truly understood her. Their bond was unbreakable, but it was also a forbidden love, a secret that could shatter their family and their house.
As the final adjustments were made to her wedding gown, Helaena steeled herself for the future that lay ahead. She would marry Jacaerys, uphold her family’s legacy, and conceal her love for Aemond deep within her heart.
Little did she know that the intricate web of secrets, desires, and ambitions within House Targaryen would soon unravel, changing the fate of the realm forever.
As Helaena continued to stand in her opulent wedding gown, a heavy sigh escaped her lips. Her thoughts drifted to a place far removed from the Red Keep, where she could be free to follow her heart’s desires.
In her daydreams, she imagined a life where she wasn’t bound by the expectations of her royal bloodline. A life where she could choose her own path, explore the world beyond the castle walls, and, most importantly, love whomever her heart truly desired.
The vision of a life unburdened by duty and politics danced before her eyes. She saw herself riding freely through open fields, her hair flowing in the wind, with Aemond by her side. They would explore the Seven Kingdoms together, sharing their dreams and desires without fear of judgment or scandal.
But the harsh reality of her situation always brought her back to the present. She couldn’t change the course her parents had set for her, and the weight of her duty as a Targaryen princess pressed down on her shoulders.
Helaena’s gaze remained locked on her reflection in the mirror, her eyes filled with longing for a life that could never be. She yearned for the freedom to choose her own destiny, but for now, she was trapped in a world of politics and duty, where love and desire could only exist in the secret corners of her heart.
Far from the opulence of the Red Keep, in the bustling streets of King’s Landing, another girl named Ariah struggled beneath the weight of her own destiny. Born into a family burdened by poverty, her parents had taken a desperate measure when she was but an infant, borrowing from the greedy seamstress Lana to provide for their newborn child.
Ariah had grown up knowing only the shadow of her debt, toiling day in and day out in Lana’s cramped, dimly lit workshop. The woman’s heart was as cold as her scissors were sharp, and though Ariah had already repaid a significant portion of her family’s debt through her labor, Lana insisted on keeping her as a virtual servant for the foreseeable future, citing “interest” on the debt that seemed to have no end.
At the tender age of ten and nine, Ariah was trapped, unable to break free from Lana’s clutches. She watched the world outside through the workshop’s small, grime-covered window, yearning for a life beyond the stifling walls and the ceaseless drudgery. Her dreams were of a simple existence, far removed from the cruelty of the seamstress, where she could be free to make her own choices, perhaps even find love.
But the reality of her situation was inescapable, leaving her feeling helpless and distraught. Ariah knew not when, or if, her debt to Lana would ever be paid in full, and the weight of her uncertain future bore down upon her young shoulders.
In the rare moments of respite from Lana’s relentless demands, Ariah allowed her mind to wander into the realm of what-ifs. What if she could break free from Lana’s clutches and escape the suffocating workshop? What if she could live a life unburdened by debt and servitude?
In her daydreams, Ariah saw herself walking through the bustling streets of King’s Landing, her steps light and her heart unencumbered. She imagined the simple joys of buying a loaf of freshly baked bread from the market, feeling the warm sunshine on her face, and sharing laughter with newfound friends.
Love, too, was a distant but cherished dream. Ariah envisioned a kindred spirit who would see past her humble beginnings, someone who would hold her hand as they explored the city together, under the watchful gaze of the Red Keep’s distant towers.
These fleeting fantasies were her refuge, a glimmer of hope in the darkest hours. Ariah knew that breaking free from Lana’s grip was a daunting challenge, but the dream of a life where she could make her own choices, breathe the air of freedom, and love without fear was a light that burned brightly in her heart.
Back within the imposing walls of the Red Keep, after the wedding gown fitting, Helaena found herself in the luxurious chambers that would soon become her new life. The room was adorned with silks, tapestries, and ornate furniture, a stark contrast to the simplicity of her earlier daydreams.
Jacaerys, her nephew and soon-to-be husband, had showered her with lavish gifts. Exquisite jewelry, rare perfumes, and finely crafted books adorned the room, each item a testament to his desire to please her. His intentions were kind, and Helaena appreciated the effort he put into making her feel welcomed.
Yet, as she examined the gifts, she couldn’t shake the underlying truth that they were still, in essence, strangers. Helaena’s heart ached for the deep bond she shared with her brother Aemond, but he had been taken from King’s Landing when her sister Rhaenyra left for Dragonstone, leaving Helaena isolated from the family she had once known.
The week leading up to the wedding felt like a whirlwind, filled with preparations, meetings, and discussions of alliances. But amid the grandeur and the political maneuvering, Helaena couldn’t help but feel like a pawn in a larger game.
She knew that in a matter of days, she would be married to Jacaerys, sealing the union of House Targaryen. Her duty to her family and the realm weighed heavily on her, but the thought of spending her life with a man she barely knew left her feeling like a stranger in her own future.
As the morning sun cast a soft golden glow over King’s Landing, Helaena’s heart still felt heavy with the weight of her impending wedding. Aemond, her ever-watchful and caring brother, could see the sadness in her eyes and was determined to lift her spirits.
With cloaks concealing their distinctive Targaryen hair, they hatched a plan to sneak out of the Red Keep for a brief respite. The streets of Flea Bottom were bustling with activity as they ventured into the labyrinthine alleys, determined to escape the politics and expectations that loomed over them.
Aemond turned to Helaena, his voice gentle and reassuring. “Let’s take a walk, sister. Just for a little while, to remind ourselves of the world beyond these walls.”
Helaena agreed with a nod, and they set off into the heart of the city. Their Targaryen identities hidden, they blended in with the common folk, observing the everyday struggles and triumphs of those who lived in Flea Bottom.
Passing a vendor selling sweet pastries, Aemond’s eyes danced with mischief as he suggested, “Shall we indulge in a treat, Helaena? Like the commoners do.”
Helaena’s laughter filled the morning air as they shared a pastry, the simple joy of the moment lightening their hearts. They spoke of dreams and hopes, of a life where they could choose their own destinies, free from the constraints of duty.
Aemond gently squeezed Helaena’s hand. “Remember, sister, our hearts are our own. No matter what lies ahead, we’ll always have this bond.”
As Helaena and Aemond strolled through the vibrant morning streets of Flea Bottom, they encountered a bustling market stall with a long line of people. The scent of fresh juice wafted through the air, and Helaena’s curiosity was piqued.
Aemond noticed her interest and said, “I’ll fetch us some juice, sister. You can rest for a moment.” He headed towards the line, leaving Helaena to explore on her own.
As she wandered a little, Helaena’s ears were graced with a melodious voice that seemed to resonate like an angel’s song. She followed the enchanting sound and soon found herself in a small gathering of people. There, a young woman, roughly her age, stood before them, her voice pure and captivating.
The crowd watched in admiration as the young woman sang, her song touching their hearts. Helaena couldn’t help but be drawn into the performance, her own worries momentarily forgotten as she listened to the beautiful melodies and lyrics.
The singer’s eyes met Helaena’s briefly, and there was a flicker of recognition, as if they shared a momentary connection through the music. It was a reminder that beauty, art, and shared emotions could bridge the gaps that duty and responsibility often imposed.
For that brief interlude, Helaena felt a sense of freedom and a connection with the common people of King’s Landing, a world far removed from the Red Keep. It was a moment she would carry with her, a glimpse of the life she longed for but could only experience in stolen moments like these.
As the young lady finished her soul-stirring song, the crowd burst into enthusiastic applause, their appreciation evident. They began placing coins into a small cup by her side, where a small cat lounged nearby, observing the scene with curious eyes.
Before the talented singer could reach for the cup, an older woman, clad in tattered garments, abruptly snatched it. She emptied the coins into her own palm with a greedy grin and declared in a harsh, commanding tone, “I’ll be takin’ every penny this girl makes until the debt is paid!”
A murmur of disapproval rippled through the onlookers, some voicing their objections, while others watched in silent anger. It was a cruel and heartless act, seizing the young woman’s hard-earned coins right before her eyes.
Helaena, standing on the fringes of the crowd, couldn’t help but feel a sense of injustice. She glanced over at Aemond, who was still waiting in line for juice, but she couldn’t bear to let this cruelty continue unchallenged.
As the crowd dispersed, leaving behind the young girl with the empty cup, Helaena’s heart swelled with empathy. Summoning her courage, she approached the girl, who was softly talking to her cat, sharing dreams of a future free from the weight of her debt.
Helaena knelt beside her, offering a gentle smile, and placed some coins into the now-empty cup. The girl’s eyes widened in shock at this unexpected act of kindness. She looked up at Helaena, her voice trembling as she spoke, “Thank you, kind lady. You have a generous heart.”
Their eyes met, and for a moment, both Helaena and the girl froze in astonishment. It was as if they were looking into a mirror. As Helaena and the girl, with her strikingly similar face but brown hair, uncovered their hair beneath the cloaks, they stared at each other in wide-eyed astonishment. It was as if they were looking into a mirror, their features so alike that they could easily be mistaken for sisters.
Helaena’s voice quivered with disbelief as she whispered, “You…you look just like me.”
The girl’s eyes shimmered with a mixture of emotions. “I’ve heard stories about a Targaryen princess, but I never thought I’d meet one, especially one who looks like…you.”
Helaena’s heart swelled with a newfound connection. She reached out and gently touched the girl’s shoulder. “What’s your name?”
The girl’s lips curled into a hesitant smile. “Ariah. I’m just a peasant girl, though.”
Helaena shook her head, her own smile warm and genuine. “Ariah, you’re not just any girl. You have a spirit and a strength that I admire. We may look alike, but it’s our hearts that truly connect us.”
As they stood there, Helaena and Ariah, two young women with a shared face but different backgrounds, found solace in each other’s presence. In that quiet, empty street, they were no longer defined by their station or their debts. They were kindred spirits, bound by the unbreakable thread of their shared humanity.
“We could be sisters,” Helaena remarked with a smile.
Ariah, still in awe of the uncanny resemblance, asked, “What’s your name?”
“Please call me Helaena,” Helaena replied.
Ariah’s eyes widened in realization. “Helaena? You have the same name as the princess.”
Helaena laughed awkwardly, a blush coloring her cheeks. “Well…”
Ariah’s initial shock quickly gave way to a deep curtsy, and she stammered, “Your highness…”
Helaena, touched by Ariah’s humility and kindness, stepped closer and gently lifted her chin. “No need for formalities, Ariah. Today, we’re just two young women sharing a moment of understanding and friendship.”
In that fleeting exchange, titles and differences faded away. Helaena and Ariah, both with the name Helaena, became not just princess and peasant but kindred spirits, bound by a shared moment of connection in the heart of King’s Landing.
As they continued to walk through the quiet streets of Flea Bottom, Ariah couldn’t help but feel a growing sense of curiosity. She turned to Helaena and asked, “Why are you out of the castle, Your Highness? You’re a princess.”
Helaena sighed softly, her gaze drifting to the bustling city around them. “I suppose I wanted to savor one last taste of freedom before my impending marriage. It’s to a man I barely know, and the thought of it… it weighs heavily on my heart.”
Ariah nodded in understanding, her eyes filled with empathy. “I can’t even imagine how that must feel, to be bound by duty and expectations.”
Helaena gave Ariah a wistful smile. “It’s a heavy burden, but for now, I’m grateful for this moment of respite and for meeting you, Ariah. You’ve given me a glimpse of the world beyond those castle walls, and I’ll cherish it.”
As they walked and talked, two young women from vastly different backgrounds found solace in each other’s company. The weight of their respective burdens seemed lighter in each other’s presence, and for a brief moment, they were free to be themselves, unburdened by titles and responsibilities.
Ariah nodded with a knowing look in her eyes. “I understand more than you might think, Your Highness. I have my own duty to pay back a debt to Lana, the seamstress who holds my family’s debt over my head. It’s a burden that’s kept me bound here for as long as I can remember.”
Helaena’s gaze softened, and she placed a comforting hand on Ariah’s shoulder. “It seems we both know the weight of debts and expectations all too well. But perhaps in our shared understanding, we can find the strength to face our respective futures, no matter how daunting they may seem.”
Their bond deepened as they continued their walk, each step bringing them closer to a friendship forged in the crucible of their shared experiences. In each other, they found a source of solace and support, a reminder that they were not alone in their struggles.
Ariah, with a playful grin, tried to lift the mood. “Well, Your Highness, at least you’re not an indentured servant like me.”
Helaena furrowed her brow in curiosity. “An indentured servant? What does that mean?”
Ariah began to explain, her tone a mixture of resignation and humor. “It means I’m bound to work off my family’s debt to Lana, the seamstress. If I want a warm breakfast, I have to pay for it, and that includes fetching the eggs myself from a barn that’s a mile away. But, in my mind, I imagine I’m still asleep, snug in my bed.”
“Really?” Helaena asked horrified and confused.
“Really, but it’s alright, I mean I’m used to it. And you?” Ariah shakes off Helaena’s concern. Her eyes wide with curiosity of the life of the royal princess.
Helaena chuckled, admitting sheepishly, “Well, Ariah, I do have a servant. I can ring a bell, and they bring me breakfast. My maid even rubs my feet as I eat. But, you know, I prefer studying about bugs.”
Their conversation took on a light-hearted tone as they shared their differing experiences and comforts. In the midst of their laughter and stories, Helaena and Ariah found solace in the simple joy of connecting with someone who understood the intricacies of their lives, whether it was through the hardship of indentured servitude or the peculiar fascination with bugs.
Ariah’s gaze met Helaena’s, and she spoke softly, “I’m just like you.”
Helaena raised an eyebrow, curious. “You are?”
With a gentle smile, Ariah began to sing:
“You’re just like me,
There’s somewhere else we’d rather be,
Somewhere that’s ours,
Somewhere that dreams come true.
Yes, I am a girl like you.”
As the melody filled the quiet street, Helaena listened with a growing sense of understanding. Ariah’s voice carried the sentiment of their shared experiences, their yearning for a world beyond their current circumstances.
Helaena joined in, her voice harmonizing with Ariah’s:
“You’d never think
That it was so,
But now I’ve met you, and I know.
It’s plain as day,
Sure as the sky is blue,
That I am a girl like you.”
Impressed by Ariah’s singing, Helaena asked, “Are you a singer, Ariah?”
Ariah chuckled and shook her head. “Oh, no, nothing quite so grand. I work at Madam Lana’s penitentiary.” She corrected herself with a smirk, “I mean, dress emporium.”
Helaena laughed, appreciating Ariah’s humor. “Well, I must say, you have a talent for both singing and making people smile. Perhaps there’s more to you than just working with dresses.”
As they continued to chat and walk through the streets of King’s Landing, the weight of their respective burdens felt a little lighter, thanks to the newfound friendship and camaraderie they had discovered in each other.
Helaena admired the dress she was wearing and remarked, “I must say, I love Madam Lana’s dresses. They’re truly exquisite.”
Ariah’s eyes sparkled with pride as she confessed, “Well, Your Highness, I happen to be the one who made the dress you’re wearing.”
Helaena’s surprise was evident, and she gestured to the intricate design. “This dress looks quite complicated to make.”
Ariah waved her off with a confident grin. “It may look that way, but I assure you, I stitched it together without a hitch. It’s all in the details, and I’ve had plenty of practice.”
Helaena was impressed by Ariah’s craftsmanship, and as they continued their walk, she couldn’t help but appreciate the artistry that went into the creation of her own gown. In Ariah, she had discovered a talented and skilled artisan who possessed a unique talent for fashion.
As Helaena and Ariah prepared to part ways, they both put their hoods back up, concealing their hair just in time for Aemond’s return. He called out for Helaena, and both girls turned to him.
Aemond, his eyes wide with shock, dropped the juice cups he was holding at the sight of Helaena and Ariah together. He had never met Ariah before, and the striking resemblance between her and Helaena left him speechless.
Helaena and Ariah couldn’t contain their laughter at Aemond’s stunned reaction, and they shared a knowing look. It was as if he had seen double.
Amid their laughter, Helaena and Aemond knew they had to return to the Red Keep before anyone noticed their absence. Helaena whispered to Ariah, “Thank you for this moment, Ariah. I won’t forget it.”
Ariah nodded, her eyes filled with warmth. “And thank you for brightening my day, Your Highness.”
With a final shared smile, the two girls parted ways, disappearing into the bustling streets of King’s Landing as they resumed their roles as princess and peasant.
That night, as Helaena sat in her room, she heard the unmistakable sound of a cat meowing. She immediately recognized it as the cat she had taken in a couple of months back, a peculiar feline she had affectionately named Anna. Anna had been a guardian of sorts for Helaena’s beloved collection of bugs, showing no interest in eating them but instead seeming determined to protect them.
Helaena, curious about what might be troubling the usually stoic cat, called out, “Anna?”
The meowing persisted, growing louder and more urgent. Concerned for her feline friend, Helaena decided to investigate. She followed the sounds of the meowing down a corridor, her footsteps echoing in the empty halls.
Finally, she arrived at an isolated corridor where the meowing seemed to be coming from. Helaena’s heart sank when she saw Anna, the cat, meowing in distress from inside a box. She approached the box, intending to free the cat and offer her comfort.
However, before she could reach Anna, a sudden darkness descended upon her. A bag was placed over her head, and strong arms seized her, pulling her away from the box. Panic coursed through Helaena as she was forcibly taken away from Anna, her cries for help muffled by the bag covering her head.
The next day, Aemond entered Helaena’s room and found a letter placed on her desk. As he read its contents, his brow furrowed in concern. The letter claimed that Helaena had run away because she didn’t want to marry Jacaerys, but Aemond knew better. He had grown up with his sister, and he recognized that this was not her handwriting.
Intrigued by the mysterious disappearance of his sister, Aemond decided to take matters into his own hands. He couldn’t let this situation escalate into chaos at the Red Keep. Determined to find out what had truly happened, he sneaked back into Flea Bottom in search of Ariah, the young girl who had shared a unique connection with Helaena.
Aemond found Ariah at Madam Lana’s dress emporium, and he approached her with urgency. “Ariah,” he began, “I need your help. Something’s happened to Helaena, and I suspect foul play. The letter I found in her room wasn’t written by her. Do you know anything about her whereabouts?”
Ariah’s eyes widened in alarm, and she replied with concern, “I don’t know where she is, but I promise I’ll do whatever I can to help you find her, Aemond. She’s a friend, and she doesn’t deserve to be in danger.”
As they huddled together, plotting their next steps, Aemond and Ariah knew that they needed to act swiftly to uncover the truth and bring Helaena back to safety. Their unlikely alliance was forged in the face of a looming mystery, and together, they were determined to find the missing princess.
Aemond leaned in closer to Ariah, his voice hushed as he made a bold proposal. “Ariah, would you be willing to come with me to the palace and pose as Helaena until I can find my sister and bring her back? It’s the only way to prevent a panic and buy us time to save her.”
Ariah hesitated for a moment, her eyes reflecting the weight of the request. Then, she nodded resolutely. “I’ll do it. For Helaena and for our friendship.”
With their plan set, Aemond and Ariah left Madam Lana’s dress emporium and ventured toward the palace. Aemond knew the secret passageways that would allow them to enter unnoticed, avoiding the prying eyes of the castle guards and courtiers.
As they made their way through the labyrinthine passages, their hearts filled with determination and hope. Together, they were embarking on a daring mission to rescue Helaena and to ensure her safe return to the Red Keep.
In the quiet confines of Helaena’s room, Aemond set to work on their daring plan. He had gathered the necessary supplies to transform Ariah into a convincing substitute for his sister. With a deft hand, he began by dyeing her brown hair into the unmistakable Targaryen shade of blonde.
As the transformation took shape, Ariah couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. She turned to Aemond and asked, “Do I look like Helaena now?”
Aemond gave her an encouraging smile. “You’re getting there, Ariah. Now, let’s work on your attire.” He carefully selected a princess-like gown and helped her into it, ensuring every detail was perfect.
Once Ariah was dressed, Aemond started the crash course in princess etiquette. “Remember, Ariah, posture is key. Stand tall and graceful. And when you walk, it’s a glide, not a stride.”
Ariah did her best to mimic the graceful movements Aemond demonstrated. “Like this?”
Aemond nodded approvingly. “Exactly. Now, let’s practice your speech. A princess speaks eloquently and with poise.”
For hours, Aemond patiently guided Ariah through the intricacies of royal behavior, from table manners to polite conversation. It was an intense crash course, but Ariah’s determination and Aemond’s expertise made for a promising transformation.
As they continued their lessons, Aemond couldn’t help but admire Ariah’s willingness to step into the role of a princess to help rescue his sister. Their bond grew stronger with each passing moment, and they both knew that they were in this together, determined to bring Helaena home safely.
The day arrived when Ariah, posing as Helaena, was to meet Prince Jacaerys, her nephew and the man she was supposed to marry. The weight of her role bore down on her, and she couldn’t help but feel nervous about the impending encounter.
Aemond, her mentor and guide through this charade, knew that Ariah needed to be prepared for any questions or conversations that might arise. He decided to share a piece of Helaena’s genuine passion with her – her love for bugs. After all, it was common knowledge among the court that Helaena had a deep fondness for these small creatures.
“Ariah,” Aemond began, “if anyone asks about your interests or hobbies, you should mention your fascination with bugs. It’s something everyone associates with Helaena. Just speak of it with the same enthusiasm that she would.”
Ariah nodded, her nerves beginning to ease with Aemond’s guidance. “I’ll do my best, Aemond. Thank you for helping me through all of this.”
With their preparations complete, Ariah, now assuming Helaena’s identity, was ready to face Prince Jacaerys and continue the charade. As they made their way to the meeting, they knew that their deception would be put to the test, and their hopes rested on their ability to maintain the illusion until they could find the real Helaena and bring her back to safety.
As Larys Strong was on the verge of mentioning Princess Helaena’s disappearance in the throne room, where the king, queen, Rhaenyra, Daemon, Jacaerys, and Lucaerys were all present, the heavy doors swung open, interrupting his words.
A hushed silence fell over the room as Aemond entered, guiding Ariah, who now bore an uncanny resemblance to Helaena. The two girls looked strikingly alike, and if anyone didn’t know better, they would be hard-pressed to tell them apart.
Larys Strong, who had been about to reveal the disappearance, found himself in a state of shock at the sight. His eyes widened, and his expression betrayed a mixture of horror and disbelief. Still, he tried to maintain his composure, hiding his true feelings behind a carefully crafted facade.
As Rhaenyra suggested the idea of Helaena and Jacaerys taking a dragon ride, Aemond quickly intervened with an excuse, his voice carrying a note of authority. “I’m afraid that won’t be possible,” he stated firmly. “Helaena’s dragon is about to lay eggs, and it’s not advisable for her to fly at the moment.”
Ariah couldn’t help but release a subtle sigh of relief, grateful that she wouldn’t have to face the intimidating prospect of approaching a dragon, knowing the consequences if she did. Aemond had indeed saved her from a potentially perilous situation.
Daemon’s suggestion for Jacaerys and Helaena to take a walk in the gardens was met with agreement from Ariah and Aemond, who exchanged a subtle nod of understanding. With Jacaerys leading the way, the trio left the throne room, leaving the courtiers behind.
As Jacaerys and Ariah walked together, with Aemond serving as a discreet chaperone, Jacaerys believed that Ariah was indeed Helaena. The charade was working, and the true identity of Ariah remained hidden from everyone, including Jacaerys himself.
As they strolled through the palace gardens, Jacaerys took the opportunity to engage Ariah, believing her to be Helaena, in conversation. He was eager to learn more about the woman he was betrothed to.
“So, Helaena,” Jacaerys began with a warm smile, “tell me, what do you enjoy doing in your free time? What are your interests and hobbies?”
Ariah, maintaining her guise as Helaena, mirrored his curiosity. “Well, Prince Jacaerys, I find myself drawn to many things. I have a particular fondness for the natural world and its creatures. I enjoy studying insects, their behavior, and their intricate designs.”
Jacaerys nodded, genuinely interested. “Insects? That’s quite fascinating. I must admit, I don’t know much about them. What else do you like?”
Ariah kept up the conversation, asking about Jacaerys’s own interests and pursuits, ensuring that her curiosity matched his. In doing so, she hoped to maintain the illusion and avoid raising any suspicions about her true identity.
As the days passed and Ariah continued her charade, she found herself drawn to Prince Jacaerys more and more with each interaction. His kindness, his words, and the thoughtful gestures he extended toward her began to melt her heart. She cherished each touch, each caress, and every gift, no matter how simple, like a flower he would pick for her.
Yet, Ariah knew the cruel reality of her situation. She couldn’t allow her feelings to surface or act upon them. She was posing as Helaena, and her duty was to help find the real princess and ensure her safety. The thought of confessing her true emotions was a secret she could only share with her loyal companion, Wolfie, her small cat who could keep her secrets.
In the midst of her growing affection for Jacaerys, Ariah faced a constant internal struggle, torn between the charade and her genuine feelings. Each day, she found herself sinking deeper into a love she couldn’t acknowledge to anyone but her feline confidant.
Stuck in the remote and abandoned farm, far from the safety of the palace, Helaena knew that her only chance of escape was to outsmart her captors. With quick thinking and a determination to break free, she hatched a plan.
Helaena enlisted the help of her loyal cat, Anna, who had been her silent companion during her captivity. Together, they devised a clever ruse to deceive the two men guarding her. Anna’s cooperation was invaluable, and the plan hinged on her feline agility and stealth.
As the opportunity presented itself, Helaena and Anna executed their plan. With the men momentarily distracted, Helaena managed to deceive them into unlocking her door. Swiftly, she covered them with a sheet, rendering them temporarily blind to her escape.
Helaena wasted no time. She ran from the farm, her heart pounding with adrenaline, clutching Anna in her arms. Her escape led her to a horse, and she mounted it with urgency, galloping away from the abandoned farm and toward the hope of freedom.
As the wind whipped through her hair, Helaena knew that she was on the run, determined to reunite with her family and uncover the truth behind her abduction.
The moon hung low in the sky as Helaena approached the towering gates of the Red Keep, her heart heavy with determination to return to safety. She had endured captivity and danger, and now she sought refuge within the walls of the castle.
But as she neared the guards stationed at the entrance, she felt a knot of unease form in her stomach. The guards had already seen Ariah with the royal family and believed her to be the true Helaena. To them, Helaena was the imposter.
Helaena’s voice quivered as she addressed the stern-faced guards. “Please, you must let me in. I am Princess Helaena, and I have been held against my will.”
The guards exchanged skeptical glances. They had no reason to doubt the presence of the supposed Helaena inside the castle.
One of the guards stepped forward, his tone dismissive. “You are mistaken, girl. The princess is already here. We will not be fooled by your lies.”
Desperation surged within Helaena as she was turned away, her plea for help falling on deaf ears. She retreated from the castle gates, knowing that she had to find another way to reveal her true identity and rescue herself from captivity.
The second Helaena stepped into the street of thread she was grabbed harshly by the woman she saw take Ariah’s money on the street. She got thrown into her shop before she could defend herself even.
Locked inside Madame Lana’s dress shop, Helaena found herself in a dimly lit, oppressive space filled with luxurious gowns and fabrics. Her eyes darted around, searching for any means of escape, but the shop’s windows were heavily barred, and the door was securely locked.
Madame Lana stood before her, an imposing figure with a cold demeanor. “You thought you could deceive us, imposter,” she hissed, her voice dripping with disdain.
Helaena’s pleas for mercy fell on deaf ears, and the door was locked with a resounding finality. Her heart pounded with fear as she realized the gravity of her situation. She was trapped, and her captors believed her to be Ariah.
Helaena knew that she had to find a way to escape this place and prove her true identity. She could only hope that someone would come to her rescue or that she could outwit Madame Lana and her guards.
Aemond had managed to slip away from the commotion in the Red Keep, finding a secluded spot where he could eavesdrop on the conversations of the courtiers. Among the voices that reached his ears, he overheard the sinister plans of Larys Strong.
Hidden in the shadows, Aemond strained to listen as Larys spoke in hushed tones to his co-conspirator. The words sent a chill down his spine, for they revealed a treacherous plot to deceive the court and claim the princess as his own.
Larys spoke with a venomous edge to his voice, “Once we capture her, I’ll act as her savior. I’ll gain her trust and convince her that I rescued her from her captors. Then, I will propose to marry her. The throne will be within my grasp, and there will be no one to challenge my claim.”
Aemond’s heart raced as he comprehended the gravity of Larys’ intentions. He knew that he had to do something to stop this dangerous scheme and protect the true princess, Helaena.
Intent on thwarting Larys Strong’s treacherous plan, Aemond had decided to confront him, but fate had other ideas. As he moved to expose the plot, he was discovered by Larys’s guards.
Aemond’s protests fell on deaf ears as he was swiftly captured and subdued. His hands were bound, and he was led away from the shadows and into the harsh light of the Red Keep’s corridors.
Larys Strong himself appeared, wearing a sinister grin. “It seems we have a meddler in our midst,” he taunted, looking triumphantly at Aemond. “You won’t be able to stop what’s coming.”
Aemond’s heart sank as he was taken away, realizing that he had failed in his attempt to prevent Larys from deceiving the court and stealing Helaena and trying to get to the throne. Little did he know that his own fate would soon become intertwined with that of the true princess in a perilous underground prison.
Helaena had been locked inside Madame Lana’s dress shop, her desperate escape attempt foiled, and her only hope lay with her loyal cat, Anna. She had entrusted Anna with her ring, which bore a tag from the shop, a faint glimmer of hope that someone might find her.
Unbeknownst to Helaena, Larys Strong had discovered Anna with the ring and tag, ensuring that no one else saw the evidence that could lead to her rescue. Deceiving Helaena into believing he was her savior, he had taken her to the mines, where her captivity continued.
But as Larys led her deeper into the mines, Helaena’s heart sank, and dread filled her. She had been betrayed once again. Larys threw her into a dimly lit room, and as her eyes adjusted to the gloom, she gasped in disbelief.
There, tied and gagged, was her brother Aemond. A rush of relief washed over her as she moved swiftly to untie him and remove his gag. Words were unnecessary; their eyes spoke of the joy of their reunion and the shared determination to survive.
Their situation was dire, surrounded by the collapsing mine, but the room they were in remained miraculously intact, except for the ceiling, which was incredibly high above them. In the darkness of the underground, they were left to ponder their next move and find a way to escape their subterranean prison.
Inside the grandeur of the Red Keep’s throne room, the royal family had gathered for a fateful meeting. Ariah, disguised as Helaena, couldn’t help but feel a growing sense of unease when she realized Aemond was absent. Panic surged through her veins, but she maintained her composure, knowing that she had to play her part.
Her anxiety grew as Larys Strong entered the room, and he wasted no time in accusing her of being an imposter. The tension in the room escalated as he approached Ariah, and without warning, he threw water onto her hair, causing the dye to run and reveal her true appearance.
Larys spoke with a venomous edge to his voice, “Imposter!”
The king and queen, along with the rest of the family, watched in horrified realization as the disguise melted away. The room erupted in gasps and murmurs, and their expressions turned from confusion to anger.
The king declared, “Arrest her!”
Ariah, her heart pounding, attempted to explain herself as the guards moved in to detain her. She pointed an accusing finger at Larys, desperation in her voice.
Ariah urgently pleaded, “No, please, you must listen! I was trying to protect the princess from him! Aemond knows the truth! He can vouch for me!’”
But her pleas fell on deaf ears, drowned out by the commotion in the throne room. Jacaerys, watching in disbelief and shock, struggled to make sense of the sudden revelation that the woman he believed to be Helaena was not who she appeared to be. The truth had been exposed, and the consequences were dire.
In their desperate situation, Aemond and Helaena realized that if they could separate the rocks around them, they might be able to access the water pipes that ran through the mines. The water pipes offered a sliver of hope, a potential means of escape from their underground prison.
With determination in their hearts, they set to work, using whatever tools they could find to chip away at the rocks. It was grueling and painstaking labor, but they knew it was their only chance. Hours turned into days, but they didn’t give up. Their shared determination and sibling bond kept them going.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, they managed to create a small opening in the rock wall, just large enough to access the water pipes. With great effort, they climbed into a barrel that was part of the water system. The barrel was designed to rise with the water level as it flowed through the pipes.
As they entered the barrel, their hearts raced with anticipation. Slowly but steadily, the barrel began to ascend, carried by the flow of water. They held onto each other, their eyes fixed on the open ceiling above. It was their lifeline, their path to freedom, and they were determined to reach it.
Ariah found herself imprisoned within a cell deep within the Red Keep. She wore a princess's dress, but her true hair, untamed and free, framed her face. The weight of her predicament bore down on her, but she refused to surrender to despair. Instead, she began to sing, her voice a soft, soothing melody that reverberated within the cold, stone walls.
Her song, while barely louder than a whisper, filled the cell and seemed to have a curious effect on the guard stationed just outside. His eyelids grew heavy, and he eventually collapsed onto the floor, emitting a gentle snore.
Ariah continued to sing, her voice a soothing lullaby that maintained the guard in his deep slumber. With each note that graced her lips, she inched closer to the keys that dangled from his belt. Her nimble fingers extended toward them, and she cautiously removed them from his belt.
The keys now in her possession, Ariah couldn't afford to stop. She resumed her singing, her heart racing as she approached the cell door. Her hope kindled the path to a daring escape.
Ariah opens the door and flees, accidentally waking up the guard in the process. Her footsteps echo as she starts running down the dimly lit halls of the dungeon, her breath coming in rapid bursts. She's quickly caught by a guard whose entire head and face are obscured by a helm, making his expression unreadable. Despite her frantic attempts to escape, it seems futile.
"You think you could escape?" The first guard's voice is gruff, and his gloved hand reaches out to apprehend her.
As the first guard reaches for her, the second guard, also clad in helm and armor, intervenes, swiftly pulling her away. His grip is firm, but there's an air of authority about him.
"The king wants to see her," the second guard says, his voice muffled by the helm.
Ariah, still trying to wriggle free, manages to step on the second guard's toes, causing him to cry out in pain. He removes his helm, revealing the face of Prince Jacaerys, his brows furrowed in momentary discomfort.
"I think I deserved that," he jokes, offering a brief smile. Ariah is both confused and shocked at the sight of him disguised as a guard to save her.
"You do love disguises," she jokes back, her own tension momentarily relieved by the unexpected encounter. Jacaerys chuckles for a moment, his eyes still focused on their surroundings.
"We have to go and save my aunt," he says, a determined glint in his eyes as he surveys the dungeon's shadows.
Aemond and Helaena managed to sneak back into the Red Keep after their daring escape from the mines. With adrenaline still coursing through their veins, they made their way directly to their parents, King Viserys and Queen Alicent, who were already in the company of Larys Strong, Rhaenyra, and Daemon.
Aemond, his voice tinged with urgency, began recounting the harrowing events they had endured. "Father, Mother, you won't believe what happened to us," he said, his eyes filled with a mixture of relief and concern. "We were held captive in the mines, and Helaena and I barely escaped with our lives."
King Viserys' face darkened with anger and worry as he listened to his son's account. "Tell us everything, Aemond," he demanded.
Aemond proceeded to recount the story, detailing the treachery of Larys Strong and their desperate escape from the collapsing mine. Helaena interjected at times, providing her perspective on the ordeal.
As Aemond concluded his tale, King Viserys turned his steely gaze toward Larys Strong. "You will pay for this, Larys," he declared, his voice firm and commanding.
Larys Strong, realizing the gravity of his actions, tried to defend himself, but his words fell on deaf ears. The guards moved forward, their duty clear, as Larys Strong's treachery finally caught up with him.
Jacaerys and Ariah rushed into the throne room, their hearts pounding with worry, only to find Helaena and Aemond standing there. The tension that had gripped them finally gave way to relief.
Without a moment's hesitation, Helaena and Ariah rushed toward each other, their arms opening wide, and they embraced tightly. Tears welled up in their eyes as they held each other, grateful that they were both safe and sound after the trials they had endured.
In that moment, the bond between the two girls, one a princess and the other a commoner, transcended their differences, and they clung to each other as if they had been sisters all their lives. The tumultuous events had forged a deep connection that nothing could break, and they cherished the simple joy of being reunited.
Amidst the emotional reunion, Aemond and Helaena exchanged a knowing look. They had both carried a secret for far too long, and now, with their family gathered around them, it was time to reveal it.
As they held hands, their fingers entwined, Aemond and Helaena shared a heartfelt confession that would change the course of their lives.
"Helaena and I..." Aemond's voice trembled with sincerity, "we love each other deeply."
Their words hung in the air like a delicate promise, their gazes locked in a passionate embrace. In the eyes of their parents, King Viserys and Queen Alicent, they saw understanding and compassion.
King Viserys spoke softly, his voice filled with paternal warmth, "Love is a powerful force, and we can't deny it. We understand."
Ariah and Jacaerys, who had weathered their own trials and found solace in each other's arms, exchanged a knowing look. Their love had grown from shared experiences, and now it had led them here.
Jacaerys shared his feelings with a warm smile, "Ariah and I have something to share as well. We've fallen in love."
Ariah nodded in agreement, her eyes filled with affection, "We want to be together."
The room was filled with a profound silence, broken only by the realization that love had woven its intricate threads through the destinies of these four young hearts.
Queen Alicent, a mother torn between duty and the happiness of her children, spoke after a thoughtful pause, "Perhaps we need to reconsider the marriage pacts."
King Viserys nodded in agreement, and the family gathered together to discuss a new treaty, one that didn't involve forced marriages but instead honored the love that had blossomed among them.
With a collective decision reached, King Viserys addressed everyone, "We will forge a treaty that binds our houses in peace. Jacaerys and Ariah will be wed, and so will Aemond and Helaena."
Rhaenyra, their elder sister and the future queen, stepped forward with a solemn pledge, "Upon my ascension to the throne, I vow not to harm my siblings."
Aemond, his voice filled with conviction, added his own vow, "And we vow not to seek the throne for ourselves."
With these vows of love, understanding, and unity, a new era began for House Targaryen. The weight of duty was replaced with the warmth of familial love, and they moved forward together, ready to face whatever challenges the future might hold.
With their new treaties in place and their hearts filled with love, the members of House Targaryen found a newfound happiness in their lives. Jacaerys and Ariah, and Aemond and Helaena, celebrated their marriages with grand ceremonies that brought joy to the realm.
As the years passed, the Targaryen family grew in number, with the laughter of children filling the halls of the Red Keep. Their love and unity served as an example to the Seven Kingdoms, and under their rule, the realm enjoyed a period of peace and prosperity.
The tales of their adventures, trials, and ultimate triumphs were passed down through generations, becoming the stuff of legends. House Targaryen's legacy was not one of conflict and war, but of love, unity, and a commitment to a brighter future.
And so, they lived happily ever after, their bonds of love and family stronger than ever, ensuring a prosperous and harmonious future for the Seven Kingdoms.
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