ours is the fury;

Argella Baratheon. Eight and twenty years of age. Queen Dowager of the Crownlands.Widow of King Daemon Targaryen.

[argellabarathcon-archived]

@stonesqueen​​

location: sunspear, dorne...wherever the docks are

She couldn't tell if it was curiosity or insecurity that had brought her to this point. Argella knew exactly where to find her thanks to the letter exchange between her and Anari. The two of them had agreed to meet - a secret she couldn't even tell those closest to her. She couldn't even share with her ladies, many of whom had been her companions since she was a child; even they didn't know. She couldn't imagine them agreeing with her actions.

Argella would tell herself that it was just a meeting. It had no meaning and caused no harm. Nonetheless, she had snuck out, concealing herself with excessive garments in an attempt to hide her identity. So much effort put into something ostensibly innocent.

She kept her gaze fixed on the ship at the docks, too afraid to approach it. She instead waited for the Queen of the Stepstones to leave and reveal herself. Argella noticed several people there, just walking around and leaving the ship. A silver-haired young boy caught her eye, and Argella immediately assumed he was the illegitimate son of Anari and Daemon about whom she had heard rumors. She had dismissed those rumours at first as lies with no truth to them, but as time passed, the more she wished to see it for herself, to see if there were any similarities in character or appearance.

So she stood there, waiting for Anari, hoping she would arrive sooner rather than later, before people noticed Argella's absence.

[argellabarathcon-archived]

wcrdsarewind​:

.

Pearse Caron found the false niceties of royals to be insulting, people on their uncomfortable chairs looking down at them as if they were a nuisance. He did not know how to feel about his Queen. He thought her weak. And weakness did not suit Stormlanders. How was she a Baratheon and so ineffective? Pearse would push away his assumptions. He had to bury them. It was important to approach her with the respect a Queen deserves, even if she stripped herself of her own power and gave it over to the dragon spawn. How unlucky were they? 

“Your Grace, thank you for taking the time to see me today. My journey was wonderful.” He shook his head. “Thank you but, no thank you. I know my visit is unexpected and I hope to not take up too much of your time, my Queen.” Pearse couldn’t believe he had to do this. He couldn’t believe he had to beg his Queen to support her people. “We are under attack, your Grace. The Vulture King is attacking us and we have to seek your help. We seek the aid of House Baratheon, the aid of or Queen, in this war.” 

.

His words did not come as a surprise to her. She was aware of the major conflict with the Vulture King. She understood why the Stormlands were concerned; it was a lot to bear on their shoulders, and they may have felt unsupported. Argella never said anything, but she wasn't a fool. She recognized that the Stormlands reuniting with the Crownlands might have been too much for some. She didn't understand why her point of view wouldn't be accepted though. It made complete sense to her. Her son was the heir, a child of Targaryen and Baratheon blood. But, in the meantime, he required the assistance of a regent. Argella had never attempted to take over those responsibilities and had gladly delegated them to her goodsisters. She had not been in the right frame of mind to argue or seek authority of anything.

“I thank you for coming here, Lord Caron,” she began, her gaze fixed on his as she considered how to say her next words. “But I am no Queen,” she added, explaining that being a queen dowager was not the same as being a queen regnant. “If my son weren’t a babe, you could have taken your concerns to him, but for the time being, only Princess Caerella and Princess Nelaena are capable of dealing with the Vulture King. And I believe they are actively looking for a solution to the problem. They are not inept, Lord Caron,” she reminded him. “You could say I am the last remaining Baratheon. I understand why you wanted to speak with me. I can forward your concern to the princesses regents,” she said. “You have not been forgotten. I hope you are aware of this. I may not be a queen in the same way that my dear brother was king, but I am concerned about the Stormlands.”

[argellabarathcon-archived]

@caetargaryen​

Her days were now spent fussing over the twins. Argella could devote herself entirely to motherhood as she was not a regent. She hadn't completely shut herself off from people's concerns in the two kingdoms, but her motherly duties took up the majority of her time. After everything that had happened, the loss of her brother and then the death of her husband, she felt her children needed her the most. They were the only thing that had brought her joy in the last few months, the only reason she had found the strength to overcome all of her losses. A part of her wished they'd never grow up, so they wouldn't have to deal with the pain and hurt that came with aging and maturing.

After checking on the nursery, the queen dowager continued down the Keep's halls, heading towards Caerella’s office. She hoped to have the opportunity to speak with her goodsister. Argella was aware of how busy she was and had no intention of intruding, but a brief break wouldn't hurt. She didn't want to appear unconcerned. Daemon's sisters were the only family she had left besides her children. She intended to mention her invitation to Darrik to come meet the twins, and Caerella should be aware of the preparations for his visit.

“Caerella?”, she called out, as she gently knocked on the door. “It’s me, Argella. Are you occupied?”

[argellabarathcon-archived]

wcrdsarewind​:

a starter for @argellabarathcon timeskip; crownlands

Pearse came to the Crownlands seeking an audience with his Queen. He wished to discuss the problems with the Vulture King. When word reached him, he sent back much of his guard to prepare their men to join the others. Rats would not displace Stormlords. Of course, it surprised him they would not be receiving help and what would be the point of joining another Kingdom if said Kingdom sat back and watched your battles? He found the notion laughable, but he wouldn’t be here to argue. Pearse would never argue with his Queen, he only wanted to seek her guidance. He wanted to seek her wisdom if there was any to be found. He did not recall House Baratheon having a history of high intelligence, but no house survived as long as theirs by being ill-equipped. 

He arrived as always, with confidence and a smile on his face. Pearse spent a lot of years thinking he could live as a bard, and bards required people to like them, as well as their voices. It was written through the histories of House Caron. They were the songbirds of storm and war. Pearse walked up to her, smiling brightly as he knelt before you. “Your Grace, it is an honor to have the pleasure of your audience in these hard times.” Pearse trusted the crown, the realm that housed his family. His sons would marry and Lord over the Stormlands and he would do all he could to ensure they did not inherit ashes and embers. And he would trust his Queen to be on the same page. If not, he would write his own book. 

.

When she was told that a stormlander had come to see her, her mind immediately went to Darrik. She hadn't expected him to arrive so soon, but she didn't mind; in fact, she was excited to see him again as soon as possible. The boy who served as a messenger, on the other hand, was quick to correct her: Lord Caron, not Lord Tarth, had arrived. Why would he want to talk to her? There had never been any kind of special relationship between the lord and his liege. She couldn't imagine him having a question about the two kingdoms' governance, which was now the responsibility of the regents. Nonetheless, she was glad to see him. She was willing to listen to whatever he had to say to her.

Argella was waiting for him in the great hall when she noticed him approaching. “Lord Caron,” she said politely, a smile spreading across her features. “I hope your journey was uneventful,” she added. “Would you like some water or wine?” She was curious as to the reason for his visit, but after such a long journey, it was only proper to offer him some refreshment first.

[argellabarathcon-archived]

@darriktarth​​

Dear Darrik,

I hope you are in good health as I write this letter. It may come as a surprise to you that I'm writing to you right now. I believe it has been quite some time since my last letter to you. As we are both well aware, a great deal has occurred that has temporarily hampered our communication. When I saw you in the north, I was overjoyed. My smile, I believe, gave it away. I admit it was heartbreaking when we had to part ways again, and I had to return to King's Landing while you returned to Tarth. What has happened to you since then? Are you doing well?

But, in any case, I should probably explain why I'm writing this letter: I recently gave birth to my children. Maybe the news reached you in the stormlands. Surprisingly, the gods bestowed upon me not one, but two babes. A boy and a girl. Daemon and Daenys are the names I gave them. They are both breathtaking, the most lovely children I have ever seen. I'd like for you to meet them. If you wish and have the time, I personally invite you to come to King's Landing and meet my two blessings at the Red Keep. Of course, you should not feel pressed. It's fine if you have other commitments that keep your schedule full.

Please respond so that I know whether or not to expect you.

Love,

[argellabarathcon-archived]

deimos-velaryon​:

Deimos offered a smile and nodded to the dowager queen’s response. There was a sense of responsibility and duty compelled him, but frankly, that was the least of it. Had he been a man with a different rank and lacking his title as Hand, he would have made the exact same offer to Argella. For Daemon’s sake, for his nephew and niece’s sake, for her own sake as well. Fate was been cruel to her family and while the Lord of Driftmark could do nothing to change that, he could be a constant family member close to her and her children.

“Yes, that sounds perfect,” the lord agreed, “Thank you”. A part of him had to mentally prepare himself for what was to come, as he kept thinking that it should be his cousin next to his dear wife presenting their children together to him. Would they hold a resemblance to their father? Would he see a piece of his cousin in them? He had to quiet that part of his mind, as today shouldn’t be a day marred by grim thoughts, he told himself. Today was to be a day of hope for the future, with the Targaryen line vibrant and strong in the newborn prince and princess. And so waited for Argella to ask of her ladies to bring the babies as he assisted in requesting food and drink to be brough to break fast.

.

Argella sat down at the table where they were supposed to break fast after instructing two of her ladies to bring the twins to her chambers. The servants brought various foods and beverages and placed them on top of the table. If there was a need, her ladies would assist. “How have you fared, Deimos?” she inquired, hoping to strike up a conversation while they waited. “I hope your duties as Hand don't feel too burdensome to you,” she added, a worried expression on her face. She had no idea what a Hand did, how busy they were, or how much time they had to themselves. Now that the crownlands and stormlands were reunited, she assumed there was a lot more work to be done than before. “I heard you're getting wed,” Argella said, a bright smile spreading across her lips.

Her ladies, however, returned to the chambers before she could inquire further, each holding one of the twins in her arms. “Deimos,” she said as she rose from her chair. “This is Daemon,” Argella announced, pointing to the little boy who was curled up in the lady's embrace. “And this is Daenys,” she added proudly, motioning to the baby girl. The prince and princess were so young and had such similar features that it was difficult to tell them apart at first glance. They both had silver hair and purple eyes like their father. A clear testament to their lineage. “Would you like to hold one of them?”

[peachygifs]

DOMINIQUE DEVENPORT as SISI Sisi | Episode Five

[argellabarathcon-archived]

deimos-velaryon​:

“Please, no apology is needed,” he quickly replied with a wave of his hand. It was more than understandable that the dowager queen wouldn’t be receiving visits right away, taking time to recuperate from childbirth as well as enjoy some privacy with her newborn babes. And even now she was gracious enough to ask if there was anything she could do for him, when it was the Lord of Driftmark who was bound by love for his family and duty to his monarchs that ought to be kneeling down in devotion offering everything to his newborn nephew and niece, as well as their mother. “I just wanted to offer my congratulations personally, Argella. And also let you know that with Daemon gone, your children will have no fiercer protector than me,” Deimos managed to say with a level voice, in spite of the heartwrenching pain he still felt after the loss of his cousin… his brother. “Anything you or your children need, you need only ask and I shall devote myself to see it through”.

He cared personally for Argella and her offspring, but it was also a way of acting on something he knew Daemon would have wanted. If the roles had been reversed and it was he who’d left children behind after a cruel fate, Deimos was certain his cousin would have endeavored in being a protector and loyal family member as well. “I would like that, thank you,” the Hand of the Regents responded with a nod and a slight smile, appreciative of the invitation as well as the opportunity to meet little Daenys and Daemon.

.

“Thank you,” she responded to his words. “I really appreciate it. I will let you know if we ever need anything” She could tell he was concerned, which was understandable. He was Daemon's cousin, and the two had been so close. The man most likely felt a personal responsibility to her and her children, and not just because he was the princesses' Hand. He was a good man, which was one of the reasons she felt willing to respond to his request for a visit.

‘Where do you want us to go then?” Argella asked, considering their options. “If you prefer, we can still break fast in my chambers,” she suggested, her gaze darting around the room. “And this way, I can ask one of my ladies to bring the twins here to stay with us, so you can meet and hold them. I believe they should have awoken by now” She wouldn't take her son or daughter anywhere other than the nursery and her private chambers. If anyone wanted to see them, they would have to come to her and receive an invitation. It wasn't that she was trying to hide the twins, but they were still so young and vulnerable. They were practically still newborns.

[argellabarathcon-archived]

nelaenatargaryen​:

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family has always been of utmost importance to caerella targaryen. so of course she had to be there for the birth of daemon’s baby– who turned out to be two babies. gods, if only he could’ve seen them. he would have loved them, would’ve overflowed with pride for the two that would bring about a new age of targaryen rule. if caerella has any say, she would see to it that they have all the kingdoms her own mother had once had.

she smiles down at her goodsister, brushing some stray hairs from her face as the woman begins to fuss. “i believe they’re okay, argella, there is no need to worry.” her gaze travels over to the sleeping babes– gods, she can already see her brother’s features in them. “you would know, as their mother, of course. if they need something, you’ll know. but for now you all need to rest.” the last thing the baratheon doe needs is any more stress.

“they’re beautiful, argella, truly.”

@nelaenatargaryen​

“I have never seen something more perfect in all of life than these two babes.” Nelaena smiled, looking down at the two of them. In their faces, she saw Daemon. It caused a mix of hurt and elation. Hurt that he wasn’t there but elation knowing that her beloved brother would live on through them. Twins, what a beautiful thing. No one had expected that of course but she felt that if they couldn’t go through life with Daemon by their side, at least they would have one another. To have a sibling to depend on was a very special thing indeed. 

“Argella, you are doing just wonderful. No need to fret.” She assured her. “They’re sleeping soundly and they will let you know when they need something. All babies do. But they also need you to rest as well, so you will have the strength to care for them.” She took it upon herself to pour Argella a glass of water, knowing hydration was key after what she had undergone, when a thought came to mind. “Have you decided on names for them?” Nelaena asked curiously. 

@argellabarathcon​

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Hearing Caerella and Nelaena's reassuring words was enough to put her mind at ease, at least for the time being. For a brief moment, she set aside all of her motherhood-related anxiety and focused on herself. “I suppose you're right,” she said, agreeing with them. “The maester did tell me earlier how important it is for me to be well-rested in order to provide the best care,” Argella added. She also believed she could rely on her ladies and handmaidens to help her when she needed it. The idea of becoming a parent was still so foreign and perplexing to her that she would gladly accept any assistance she could get.

Her face lit up at the question. She'd spent a long time pondering possible names for the babe, well, babes now. Argella had secretly made a list of names she liked for a boy and a girl. She hadn't hoped for a son or a daughter in particular; she would have considered herself fortunate with whatever the Mother chose for her. But the birth of twins was undoubtedly a greater blessing than she could have imagined. “Yes, I've decided on names,” she admitted, a bright smile gracing her features. “Daemon and Daenys,” Argella didn't think it was necessary to explain the name she chose for her son, but she chose the name 'Daenys' for her daughter simply because it was not a name she had heard of being used frequently by House Targaryen. Surprising, given the importance of the original bearer. “What do you think?” she inquired. “Are you fond of them?”

@caetargaryen​

[argellabarathcon-archived]

deimos-velaryon​:

Location: The Crownlands, King’s Landing Set during the four-month time jump Closed starter for @argellabarathcon​

Carrying twins and birthing them had been no easy feat, Deimos was sure, yet Argella had managed to bring two healthy, beautiful children into the world— a world that was very rarely kind enough to allow for moments of joy and celebration. The Lord of Driftmark wasn’t impertinent enough to push his way into meeting his niece and nephew right away, allowing for their mother to recuperate after the laborious deed that was bringing them into the world. It was only when the dowager queen responded to his request for a visit, that Deimos Velaryon did so; paying his respects to the new mother— a dear friend, and to the newborn Targaryen prince and princess.

“Daemon and Daenys,” the Hand of the Regents smiled subtly, though a part of him harbored some melancholy. His cousin should have been here to see his children come into the world. However, he refused to let the joy of the birth of a new generation of Targaryens be ruined by the sadness of their father’s absence. “Motherhood suits you, my friend,” he said instead, a sincere half-smile crossing his lips. As tiring as being a new mother could be, Deimos could see his cousin’s trusted companion glowed in a new way.

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Many people had expressed an interest in seeing her after hearing the news. Everyone was curious to see the new mother and babes, to see if the twins resembled her or their deceased father. She had prayed to the gods that they would both take after Daemon so that they could remind her of him. She never wanted to forget her dear husband; even if she became old, frail, and forgetful, all she had to do was look into her children's eyes to see him again.

There were only a few people who were allowed to personally congratulate the new mother. Her company had primarily consisted of her most trusted ladies, as well as the twins' aunts, who were always welcome to see their young niece and nephew. They had both stayed by her side throughout the long and exhausting birth of the children, for which she would be eternally grateful. She needed their support or she didn't think she would have been able to make it.

Lord Deimos Velaryon had requested to see her and her children, according to one of her ladies. He was family, so she instructed her lady to inform him right away that he was welcome to visit whenever he pleased. Argella had risen quickly from her bed, enlisting the assistance of her ladies to help her in preparing for Lord Velaryon's arrival. The Queen Dowager had remained in bed for days after the twins' birth because she was still overwhelmed and weak. But it was high time she returned to her regular duties, she decided, and the arrival of Daemon's cousin was the best way to get back into the swing of things.

When she saw him enter her chambers, a soft smile spread across her lips. “Thank you, Deimos,” she said, choosing to leave formality at the door; there was no need for it at this time. “I apologize for taking so long to prepare to see you,” Argella said. “Is there anything I can do for you?” she inquired, her gaze shifting to one of her ladies. “Perhaps we could break fast together, and then you could finally see the little prince and princess, if that's what you want.”

[argellabarathcon-archived]

darriktarth​:

“I’m certain of it. I’m sure they are looking down upon you with great pride.” Darrik replied. He hoped that his elder brothers were doing the same. Hopefully they thought that he was continuing to represent the name of House Tarth well.

“I’m sure she would.” He assumed that his sister would be in support of anything that brought him happiness. “Besides, you deserve a chance to celebrate a happy occasion for once.” There was so much doom and gloom as of late. It couldn’t have been good for the soul. 

“I hope the same.” He took her hand into his and delicately kissed it. Seeing her again was like something out of a dream, and if it was simply that he didn’t wish to wake.  

.

“Thank you,” she said. “Thank you for your kind words.” While she didn't fully believe what he was saying, it was nice to hear some reassurance. She was genuinely trying to deal with the situation to the best of her ability, even if it appeared to some that she had chosen complete passivity.

She hadn't celebrated someone's nameday in a long time. There hadn't been many reasons to rejoice. And she had been struggling with feeling any kind of happiness. It even made her wonder if it was the right thing to do. So many people close to her had died, so many important people. “I will do my best to come,” she promised. “If my current state permits,” Argella added, resting her hand on her belly. “I'll speak with the maester.”

She turned around, a warm smile gracing her features, as she parted ways with him. She had been thankful that they had run into each other. She hadn't realized how much she missed having him in her life until now. They'd see each other again soon if the gods let them.

[argellabarathcon-archived]

@nelaenatargaryen & @caetargaryen​

set: during the time skip, right after the twins’ birth

location: argella’s bedchambers, king’s landing

She was exhausted. The maester had advised her to close her eyes and rest. It felt like hours had passed between the first pains of childbirth and the moment she held the two babes in her arms. It had been a painful but worthwhile experience. She would do it all over again if she had to. She had had no idea how deep love could run until she looked into the twins' eyes. Suddenly, her heart was overflowing with love, devotion and a strong desire to shield the two vulnerable souls who returned her gaze with such contentment and wonder. She saw her dear Daemon. The twins' eyes were not Baratheon-blue, but rather Targaryen-purple. Especially her infant son, whom Argella hoped would grow up to resemble his father not only in appearance but also in character.

The two newborns had been washed, fed, and placed in separate cradles by her bed. She expected the twins to be moved out of her bedchambers soon, possibly to their own nursery. But for the time being, she was content to have them by her side. She couldn't sleep because all she could do was stare at them and count how many times they inhaled and exhaled, as if she was afraid they'd stop breathing suddenly. She'd never felt fear like she did now. Argella realized her heart would break if something happened to them. She had assumed that Daemon would be by her side to support her, comfort her, and witness the birth of their children. Unfortunately, fate had decided to keep their paths apart for the rest of their lives. The Stranger had claimed him, and now a father was not present to see his own son and daughter for the first time. While she was grateful to both Nelaena and Caerella for staying by her side, the happy and joyful event was overshadowed by the memory of death.

“They look so peaceful,” she said abruptly to no one in particular, her gaze wandering between the two babes. “Aren't they still hungry?” Argella inquired. “I'm concerned that they're not feeling well. I should know as their mother, shouldn't I?” Her insecurity and fear were creeping up on her. She felt completely unprepared for motherhood. She'd heard that it came naturally to every woman, but what if she was an exception? What if she was never able to meet her children's needs?

[argellabarathcon-archived]

darriktarth​:

Darrik’s smile mirrored her own. “Your words mean the very same to me.” He made sure she knew. “And I hope that you too have felt you have made House Baratheon proud. You have risen so far since we were children ourselves.” He was quite proud of her himself. Despite her path diverging from his own, he had always known she would do something great. That she would be someone great.   “My sister is planning a birthday party for herself in a matter of months, should you find yourself in need of respite from current events you are more than welcome to attend. I must say I’m rather relieved to have a positive occasion for many to gather for once.” It had all been far too grim as of late. 

.

“Do you think so?” she asked, her gaze rising to meet his as she listened to his words. She had never imagined that she had done much to make House Baratheon's legacy shine brighter. Her parents and brother had all left this world, leaving her as the sole survivor of the House Baratheon. She had become a queen, yes, but she was now a widow and the expectant mother of a babe who would have to grow up without a father. She'd done exactly what was expected of her, nothing more, nothing less.

Her features brightened briefly in reaction to the invitation. “I'd love to go to her birthday celebration,” Argella admitted. “But do you think she'd want to see me there? Would she mind?” The queen dowager did not know Minisa as well as she did Darrik. “However, if she doesn't mind, I'll do my best to make it in time for the birthday.”

Before they could finish their conversation, her lady appeared by her side, urging her to come see what she had discovered at one of the stalls. Argella felt it was time to say her goodbyes to Darrik. “I should go,” she said, extending her hand to bid him farewell. “However, I was glad to see you again. I hope we run into each other again soon,” she added.

[argellabarathcon-archived]

darriktarth​:

“Yes, yes that news had reached me.” Darrik answered, giving another small nod. “I hope you know that is not why I approached you, I don’t see you as tiny or frail at all. Given all that has happened I see you to be quite strong.” She hadn’t crumbled. She had carried on. “But even so I presumed as much, that others were treating you as if you’re about to break. I can imagine how exhausting it must be.” 

“I suppose you heard of what happened with my brothers,” There wasn’t a day that went by where he didn’t think of them. How much he wished that they were still there, still able to live out long happy and heathy lives. “But with that, I have been named the heir of House Tarth. Which is… it is truly an adjustment. There’s new responsibilities. I just hope to take it on in stride and make my family proud.” The last thing he wanted to do was let anyone down. 

.

A small smile spread across the corners of her lips as she listened to his words. He was always very fond of her. Even after everything that had happened to her, he did not appear to pity her or believe she required constant consolation. It encouraged her to see how much he believed in her and supported her. She had been in need of some motivation lately. “Thank you,” she said, her gaze falling to her feet. “It's very thoughtful of you to say all that. Your words mean a lot”, Argella assured him.

When he mentioned his brothers, her small smile quickly faded. It was a calamity. It bothered her when people died too soon. They were both so young and strong. They were never supposed to die. Despite this, the war had taken so many lives. “I'm truly sorry, Darrik.” Although time had passed since the war, the pain of losing a sibling could last indefinitely. She was well aware of this. “I know you never thought you'd be the heir,” she said. It was only natural; he was not a first-born, and his older brother was expected to be the heir and then ruling lord. “However, I am confident that you will do everything in your power to make your family proud. I believe they are already quite proud.”

[argellabarathcon-archived]

aodhanstorm​:

where: stormlands settlement, barrowtown

who: @argellabarathcon​​

Walking from the docks and up through the market ought to have been an easier task but the place was swarming with slow people who seemed to have no regard for everyone else simply attempting to circulate without having to stop every other forsaken second and Aodhan was growing quickly frustrated with it all and the height of his annoyance took the form of a pregnant woman currently inspecting the contents of a stall despite the fact that he and three other prospective clients were in line and all Aodhan wanted was to be able to purchase the fabric he knew Dahlia was missing for a project and get back home. The lady all dressed in her finery was deliberately taking her time and he found himself tapping his foot incessantly only to erupt in a groan and slapping his hand on the table. Addressing the merchant, he spoke up then arms crossed across his chest. “You can either lose my coin and that of the three people behind me who have been waiting for ten minutes for this broad to buy something or you can hurry up.” Then turning to look at the woman, he sneered. “We don’t all have servants waiting on us once we’re done here, m’lady and you’re holding up the line.” By the gods, was he tired of all these high born acting like they owned every square inch of earth their feet touched.

.

In the company of her lady, she had gone browsing at the market. They'd gone there to find a distraction and something they both liked. If she found a fabric she fancied, her lady had promised to personally sew her a new piece of clothing. Argella's clothes were usually sewn by a seamstress, but she admired her lady's quick and capable hands. She had previously proven herself to be quite adept at sewing and coming up with new fashions. It was a thoughtful gesture from her, and Argella appreciated it. She'd been so preoccupied with inspecting the merchandise on the stall that she hadn't realized how long it was taking her to make a decision. However, the man behind her made a rude remark that drew her attention. Broad? No one had ever addressed her as such before. She turned around, flustered and enraged, to face the man who had said the word. “You should keep your tongue in check when you speak,” she advised, her gaze fixed on him. “It would be prudent for you to apologize,” she added. “I’m the Queen Dowager of the Crownlands you referred to as a 'broad.'”

[argellabarathcon-archived]

darriktarth​:

“I would like that very much.” Darrik answered with a bow of his head. His eyes stayed fixed on the ground as she spoke to her handmaiden, fighting a small smile from finding it’s way to his lips as he found humor in Argella sending her off on an errand just to be rid of her for even the briefest of moments. 

He extended an arm, offering her his elbow for her to take as they strolled. “How are you feeling?” Of course he had heard that she was with child and he imagined that recent events could have taken quite a toll on her physically. He only wished health for both her and the child. Her child. There was once a time when they spoke of ‘their child’, dreaming of a future that never would truly come to pass. If only they had known. 

.

“I could have been better,” she sighed, resting her hand on his elbow for support as they walked. Before she could say anything else, her lady awkwardly smiled and excused herself, hurrying to the food stall her mistress had mentioned. Argella believed it was a time when discretion was required. While she trusted all of the women in her household, one can never be too cautious. She didn't want to be the source of any slanderous rumors. She had more than enough problems on her mind at the moment. There was no need for curious mouths to call out her name.

“You must have heard I'm with child,” she finally said, her gaze wandering around the crowds of people around them, a polite smile on her face every time her gaze locked with one of the strangers. “And recently a widow,” she added, her words bitter in her mouth. “Every day, I see so many people fussing over me. Some are even too shy to express their true feelings and reactions in front of me, fearful of how I will respond. But I wish they'd all stop acting as if I'm this tiny, frail thing. They're not doing me any favors by behaving this way” While she appreciated others' efforts to keep her from suffering further, she wished they could just be honest with her. After everything that had happened, there wasn't much that could hurt her more. “But forget about all of this; I'd rather we talk about happier things,” she said abruptly, shaking her head as if to clear her mind of the current thoughts. “Is there anything you'd like to tell me about yourself?”

[argellabarathcon-archived]

daemonntargaryens​:

are you happy? the question was enough to make daemon look upon the woman that always been the woman for him, the one who had always been spoken to in a tone that was reserved solely for her with a sense of softness, care and love it felt as though it were coming from someone other than the dragon king. and as the man listened to the distant sounds of the bustling city of kings landing, looking within the deep blue orbs of she who was and always had been the love of his life, the one that had always been able to ground him, he felt a sense of complete peace. peace in knowing that new beginnings were coming, and they had been blessed by the seven to see their family finally come into fruition. 

they had been patient through so many years of war and distance, completely losing contact; and yet they had ended up here at the end of the day, atop the tower of the red keep with the might of their great city before them. "you have made me the happiest man this day.“ he spoke, a silver grin coming over his chiselled features as he looked over her doe eyed orbs. "though i only want to know whether my queen is happy.” he murmured, his tone affectionate as he lowered his head to softly bend down from towering over her, meeting her lips with his own, his touch affectionate and loving. 

.

“Of course I'm happy,” she said quietly, their lips brushing together. The word "overjoyed" would be more appropriate. She didn't think she'd be happier than on their wedding day, but finding out they were expecting a child could easily top that. She was looking forward to motherhood, with all of its exciting and terrifying aspects. Argella considered herself fortunate to be able to share it with the man she adored. She was well aware that not every woman in her position would be able to say that. Marriages based on mutually beneficial alliances were common in their world, and her marriage to Daemon, which she thought was a good political match, had also been a love match. It couldn't get any better than this. Their small family was expanding.

“Is it too early to talk about names?” she exclaimed. She couldn't help but fantasize about it even though it was still early in her pregnancy. A few names were already running through her mind, and she could see their child in her head. Argella hoped the child would resemble their father. She'd once heard a woman say that if a wife loved her husband enough, her children would look like him. It was a silly idea based on a lack of logic, but it was kind of sweet.