[Alia could rage against this, against the duplicity of condemning one and comforting another, could then distance herself further and claim no similarity, one is son and kin and one is only a strange mirror of a daughter Alicent cannot hold anywhere but her mind. Yet, rather, Alia finds an odd sort of -- comfort, perhaps. Recognition.
Paul carries more blood on his hands than a million manors could hold, war in his name searing across the galaxy like holy fire. Yet Alia curls into his embrace, delights in his smiles, would shield him from every bit of grieving, righteous fury leveled at him by the families of those he's killed. He is Paul before he is Lisan al Gaib. He is hers before he is destiny's.]
We do not have a choice, when it is one we love. He will always be beloved and you will always forgive him and you will accept the consequences of that. Eventually this dream will end, and we will both return to what awaits us.
Did you stand by my accusers out of belief in my guilt? Or was it strategic? Your kin are strong, powerful, vengeful. It is not wise to stand against them.
no subject
Paul carries more blood on his hands than a million manors could hold, war in his name searing across the galaxy like holy fire. Yet Alia curls into his embrace, delights in his smiles, would shield him from every bit of grieving, righteous fury leveled at him by the families of those he's killed. He is Paul before he is Lisan al Gaib. He is hers before he is destiny's.]
We do not have a choice, when it is one we love. He will always be beloved and you will always forgive him and you will accept the consequences of that. Eventually this dream will end, and we will both return to what awaits us.
Did you stand by my accusers out of belief in my guilt?
Or was it strategic? Your kin are strong, powerful, vengeful. It is not wise to stand against them.
Do you believe I am guilty, Alicent?