Tags: hurt/comfort, friends to lovers, angst, mature themes, targaryen incest, violence, Maegor is a red flag himself, characters are ooc probably, MINORS DNI
“Please bring more pillows. Her grace will need to be comfortable.” Rowan asked one of the maids preparing the rooms for their upcoming guests. She had already seen to Aenys and Viserys’ rooms being prepared, and all that was now left was to ensure the expectant Queen’s comfort during their stay.
“Right away, my Lady.” the maid closest to her said, heading out to get more pillows. She wasn’t sure if it would be too many, but then Alyssa could remove them as she saw fit.
“Thank you.” Rowan smiled, looking around the room, seeing the bath being prepared with lukewarm water, as per the maester’s suggestions. All was done. She could feel the servants taking discreet looks of her and she tried to not mind it too much. She knew she looked ridiculous, so she could blame no one.
“My Lady, the King and Queen have arrived.” a young pageboy announced as he ran through the door. Rowan’s breath was stuck in her throat for a second, before she thanked him and began to leave the Queen’s room.
She took a quick, final look in the mirror, taking a moment to straighten her skirts and make sure she looked presentable, trying to ignore her horrid hair framing her face so unevenly, and made her way down to the front entrance, where Aenys, Alyssa and Viserys were stood.
Aenys looked pale, far paler than he’d ever looked before, as well as significantly thinner. He had dark undereye bags that betrayed his lack of sleep, that she could only assume was weeks long. Alyssa, thank the gods, looked far healthier, as well as little Viserys who was looking around curiously.
“Welcome to Dragonstone, your Graces. I hope your journey has been a smooth and safe one.” Rowan greeted them with a warm smile and a polite curtsy. Aenys returned her smile and opened his mouth to reply, but Alyssa seemed confused.
“Has the Dowager Queen not been made aware of our arrival? Why is she not the one here to greet us?” she asked, looking beyond Rowan, to see if perhaps Visenya was about to make a late entrance. Aenys bit his lip, and Rowan straightened her back.
“She has been made aware, your Grace. She… did not wish to greet you and has sent for me to do so.” she explained, giving the Queen an apologetic smile as she repeated exactly what Visenya had told her to say, albeit without the condescending tone, but Aenys at least seemed to understand that it was implied.
Alyssa seemed displeased with the response and looked at Aenys almost expectantly, but it was clearly not a battle that Aenys wanted to fight at the moment. Instead, he smiled at Rowan, and she could swear his lilac eyes seemed bloodshot.
“Thank you, Lady Evergreen. Our journey has been smooth.” he said, looking down at Viserys, who was looking up at the sky. Rowan assumed he was looking to spot dragons flying over the castle, and she knew he did not have to wait long. While Vhagar enjoyed a more solitary day, most of the unclaimed dragons liked to fly around. Rowan still found them all unnerving despite all the years she spent around them.
“I’ve had the maids draw baths for all three of you. I am sure you must be exhausted from your travels. Please, allow me to show you to your rooms.” she said, leading the way through Dragonstone’s all too familiar halls.
After showing Viserys to his room and showing his nursemaid where everything was, she showed Alyssa to hers, which was just across the hall from her son’s room. Alyssa seemed happy to rest, though she did not seem to let go of Visenya’s slight. Rowan was certain this was going to become an issue, but she knew the Dowager Queen would love for the fight to break out. Before she could say farewell to Aenys, he stopped her.
“May I have a moment, Rowan?” he asked before she left the room. His servants had just finished unpacking a few of the many cases of things he had brought, but he had stopped them, asking them for privacy. She could only nod.
“Of course, your Grace.” she replied, earning a smile from the King, who let his silent complaint against formalities be known. “Of course, Aenys.” she corrected herself, now earning a nod from him.
He seemed exhausted and Rowan wanted to ask him why not fly to Dragonstone on Qucksilver, who true to her name, would’ve been here a lot quicker than a ship. But then she rationalised it by thinking that after the attempt on his life, he would not wish to leave Alyssa and Viserys alone, and perhaps she would be uncomfortable to fly with him, even though she was still early in her pregnancy. Rowan decided not to bring it up at all.
“Can I ask?” he asked, almost shyly, looking at her face, or rather, her hair. “What happened to your hair?” he asked again, trying to not offend with an amused tone. She appreciated the politeness, but still looked away in shame.
“I…” she sighed. “I just had… a lot of emotions about being back here, and I somehow gained an incredible confidence to make a change to my appearance.” she gave a very watered down answer, trying to fight the embarrassment. “And yes, I regretted it immediately. I know it looks awful. It’ll… It’ll grow back. Eventually, I mean.” she mumbled, praying for that time to come soon so that she’d finally not have people stare.
“A lot of emotions?” he asked, his tone full of empathy. “About… him?” he asked once more, almost hesitant to scratch Rowan’s open wounds. She took in a slow breath. She understood that he’d want to know, that he was curious. She just didn’t expect it to come up so quickly, but then again, her sudden change of appearance warranted questions.
“Coming back here after what he did… I don’t know. All I could think about was that just outside the castle, he chose to marry another woman.” she finally said out loud. “I thought I was calm, sad but calm, but when I was done with my duties and I was all alone with my thoughts, it all became overwhelming. As if all the memories we had together here have been tainted with grief. As if I have the right to such grief.” she said with a shaky breath. “We… we used to play out there when we were small, you know?” she added, even though it felt like rubbing salt on her wounds. She was not his wife. She was not the one he betrayed. Yet no matter how many times she repeated that to herself, the worse it all hurt.
“Hey, don’t say that.” he approached her, placing a hand on her shoulder, his tone comforting. “You’ve every right to feel that grief. He hurt you.” he frowned, as he thought for a moment. Rowan took another deep breath, trying to shake her head, to pretend she was fine and that it was all fine. “Have you… heard from him?” he asked slowly, like he was unsure of what her reaction would be. Perhaps he was afraid she’d cut her hair again.
“I… yes and no.” she answered truthfully. “He keeps a correspondence with his mother and she sometimes tells me how he’s doing.” Rowan explained, leaving behind the fact that he indirectly addressed her in his letters. It was just too much to talk about with his brother, who he planned to dethrone. “Do you wish to write to him?” she asked, wondering if his question was trying to pry at how easy it would be to send a message to his exiled brother.
“No.” he said a bit too quickly. “No, I do not. I have nothing to say to him, I was only worried about you.” he explained further, as if his defensive tone didn’t betray him. Rowan returned his look of sympathy and bit her lip slightly.
“May I… May I be candid with you, Aenys?” she asked, trying to approach the subject lightly and carefully, so as to not scare him off.
“Of course you may. You always may!” he replied with a small smile. Rowan wanted to return it, but she felt too guilty. She felt there was a genuine foundation for friendship between them despite the formalities that held them back, and they were able to be really vulnerable with each other. Yet, now, she couldn’t be fully honest with him.
“Why not call for him? Ask for his help? Let him bring things back in order?” she asked slowly, hesitantly. Aenys seemed taken aback by her questions for a moment, but he shook his head, a small smile of disbelief on his lips as he walked away from her.
“Of course you’d suggest this.” he sighed, almost disappointed. “Do you wish to see him?” he asked, his tone suggesting this was an accusation. Rowan shook her head, ashamed for bringing it up.
“I am angry.” she started. “You have no idea how angry I am at him for all the grief he has brought upon me, for all he did to Ceryse. But Aenys, you cannot keep doing this. They made an attempt to kill you! How long until they try again? And Aegon and Rhaena? What if they become targets?” she asked, trying to get him to see reason.
“You think I don’t know this? Is it not clear as day that I do not sleep?” he snapped, his voice still low, trying to not shout. Rowan frowned, ashamed at the implications of her tone. “I’m sorry, I don’t mean to be sharp.” he sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose.
“But you’re not taking any action! So let Maegor do it. Ask for his help, and then when things are calm again, you can see what to do about his banishment. The city will fall apart if you don’t do something.” she pleaded with him, trying to swallow her guilt.
“You think he’ll actually do it? Come back after I exiled him; after our shouting match?” he mumbled, contemplating for a moment. “He’d sooner laugh in my face for failing than ever complying with my orders again.” he frowned deeply. His relationship with his brother was clearly a very sensitive subject at the moment. It was something they both shared it seemed, a big sensitivity to the topic of Maegor Targaryen.
“He’s your brother. No matter how angry he is, he will not ignore your call for help.” she approached him, trying to reassure him that his brother would return if he called for him to. Yes, she knew that he had much bigger plans than to just help his brother, but she knew that deep down, Maegor also wished their relationship was better.
“I think if you call for him, he’ll do it. He’d fly here as soon as he had your letter in his hands.” he laughed dryly. Rowan hated how her heart fluttered at his words. It hurt, it all still hurt so much, but she’d be a huge liar to say she didn’t love him with every fibre of her being. “How humiliating that I’d go running back to my little brother, after such a scandal.” he sighed again. “I see them all, you know, my Kingsguard, and how frustrated they are with me. How they’re all silently comparing me to him, and sometimes, I cannot help but do it too. I hesitate, I know, and he does not. The one time he did hesitate, it cost him you, and he won’t hesitate again. That’s why they all would rather have him here instead.” he confessed, his voice slightly above a whisper, leaving Rowan speechless.
Her heart was in a twist, hearing Aenys speak out loud about that fateful day. It was true, Maegor told her himself, that he hesitated to argue further with his father in order to please him, and it cost him their life together. It hurt further to also hear that it was the reason he became so ruthless, even though she knew it deep down. It was too much for both of them.
“Please rest. Have your bath and sleep. Please sleep.” she patted him on the back. He looked so frail up close, it was worrying. She would tell her worries to the maester as well as the ladies in the kitchens. Some more hearty meals, something to give him more energy, it would do him good. Aenys appreciated the kind gesture and offered her a kind smile.
“Let me think about it.” he said. “Thank you once again for your honesty, Rowan. And I’m sorry about your hair.” He escorted her out of his room and offered one last smile before closing the door.
Rowan felt horrid for knowing about Visenya and Maegor’s goals and knowingly urging Aenys to make a decision that would help aid those goals. She found herself walking the familiar route to Visenya’s rooms to let her know that the King, Queen and young Prince were settling in, all the while she contemplated her own actions.
Would it not be for the best if Maegor returned? She had to think of the stability and safety of the people, and the huge political and economic unrest that these rebellions would bring to everyone. While yes, her house had the utmost privilege of being well protected, what of those who weren’t? What of all those caught in the crossfire? And the effects all of this would have on the smallfolk, who depended on all the houses to make good decisions?
She hated to think about what would come next, about the conflict between the two brothers once Maegor’s plans became real. Because in what way would there be a smooth transition of power? Still, she thought that Aenys would be much happier without the heavy burdens of the crown. He’d get to sleep calmly and not worry about the safety of his children, perhaps travel around the seven Kingdoms… Perhaps Rowan was deluding herself into justifying Visenya and Maegor’s plans.
She entered Visenya’s room with a heavy heart, finding her lounging on her chair, a letter in her hands. A sight that was very common these days. She looked up, urging her to come in and sit as well, before passing the letter to her.
“Your father wrote to me. He worries about you, says you haven’t written back to him, or to Erin and Finn.” she explained as Rowan read over her father’s letter. “What’s wrong, my girl? You normally write to them all the time.” she said, cupping her cheek.
“I’m sorry.” Rowan felt ashamed. She had tried to write to her family, and yet when she was alone in her room, all she could do was wallow. She’d lie in bed trying to rationalise all her emotions, and then her mind would take her right back to that altar outside the castle gates and all she’d think about was that day, that decision, that ceremony, that she did not even witness the same way she did Ceryse’s, and yet it hurt a thousand times more.
“Why are you apologising to me?” Visenya asked with a gentle tone. When Rowan did not answer, she patted the space next to her. “Come here, sit.” She complied, and was welcomed into Visenya’s embrace.
Neither said anything.
She felt that Visenya was, once again, being extra gentle with her, like she was made of glass. She could not protest, as she was sure that she was acting like a nervous wreck. And her father, her sweet father, whose letter to Visenya was full of care and concern for her, his only child? Gods, she felt so guilty. Normally she’d write to her family so often, that her lack of letters now had raised concern. But what would she write? ‘Forgive me father, I was a wreck because I am haunted by memories and I also cut my hair and I look ridiculous’?
Visenya did not need her to say anything at all. She knew. And Rowan could not be more grateful to have her in her life. She gave her the space to wallow and cry, and she hugged her and played with her hair. It was everything she wished her mother could do if she were still alive. Thankfully, Visenya had gladly taken the role.
“How about tonight you write to your father, hm?” she asked softly, as she moved stray hairs out of her face. Rowan nodded. She had to write back eventually, better start now. “Then you can tell me what Alyssa’s face was like when she saw you instead of me.” she japed, rubbing her shoulder and trying to get a smile.
Aenys paced around his room. He was restless and even after a bath, he could not wind down to sleep, for there was far too much happening in his mind. He felt everyone’s eyes on him, something he used to relish in before all this mess, looking on expectantly, ready to be let down once more. He found himself on the desk, staring at a bank parchment, quilt in his shaking hand.
It could be a horrible idea, to unleash Maegor in all his anger and resentment onto the realm, to burn all those not fiercely loyal to the crown. It was everything his parents told him to never do, but as he stared at the parchment and thought about the fact that his children were in danger, that his wife could be next, that everything could crumble beneath their feet, what choice did he truly have?
How could he even begin to address his little brother? How could he put into words all the dread that consumed him? Would his brother even accept his plea of help? Perhaps it would be best if he asked Rowan to write to him. He would never hesitate to come to her aide if she were to ask, while Aenys was unsure he could claim the same.
Dear brother,
Then what? What could he even say that wouldn’t be awkward? He felt like a dog with its tail between his legs, running back to his brother who he exiled for his help. He sighed. Then what was to come if he accepted? Would he bring Alys Harroway back to King’s Landing with him and force him to acknowledge her as his wife the same way Ceryse was? That would cause an even bigger rift between the crown and the faith, along with his good sister’s family. Perhaps if he asked him to return alone? Or even better, if he asked Rowan to write to him and ask him to return alone? Surely he would.
His attention shifted from the parchment to the door, when his guard announced the arrival of his wife. Aenys was surprised to see her walking about, as he had expected her to relax and rest after their long travels. Alyssa looked concerned as she approached him, her eyes searching his face, looking for something.
“I thought you would like to rest, my dear, why are you all dressed up?” he asked, reaching for her hand to place a kiss on when she came close. She was much more dressed up than he was, looking like a proper Queen, while he was dressed down as he felt exhausted.
“I could say the same about you. I thought I’d find you sleeping.” she smiled. He felt guilty as he nodded. He was not fully honest with her about losing sleep. They did not share a room on most nights, much less now that she needed all the comfort she could get, so she did not see him lying wide awake at night. She did not need to worry about him as well. Alyssa’s smile fell as her eyes darted to the parchment in front of him, as she realised who he was planning to write to. “What are you doing?” she asked.
“I’m… I’m not so sure myself.” he confessed. “I thought I could ask my brother to return, to help us. But I fear I cannot find the words.” he explained further, looking back down at the letter, partly avoiding his wife’s gaze. She looked upset.
“Aenys, have you really thought this through? Why not send an army, or call our bannermen? This cannot be the best option.” she protested, looking at him like he was crazy. She looked bewildered that he would actually consider it, as did he.
“He is my brother, Alyssa.” he said, trying to find the right words to explain how he felt, but he could not. His mind was such a mess that he could not trust himself fully.
“Your brother who disrespected and undermined your word? The son of the woman who mocks you and cannot hide her disdain for you, despite the fact that you are King?” she asked, her tone still bewildered. She was right, of course she was, but still…
“I’m thinking of our family, of our children, of you and the babe! Believe me, I would love a better, easier solution, but as every single person keeps reminding me, I am running out of time!” he snapped, immediately regretting his tone, but Alyssa did not waver. Instead, she took his face in her hands, placing a kiss on his forehead.
“We will find a solution, one that will not make the realm hate and ridicule us.” she reassured him as she cupped his cheeks. “But now we must go speak to your aunt. It was a huge slight, what she did this morning. Sending her lady in waiting instead of greeting us herself. No matter how she feels regarding Dragonstone being passed to Aegon, you are still the King. She should not disrespect you like this with no consequence.” she said.
“I do not have it in me to fight with my aunt.” he sighed, looking away from her eyes. It was already hard enough knowing his aunt still frightened him, just as she did when he was a child, and the fact that he was now here because it was safer, because she made Dragonstone safe, he could not handle any arguments, or her cold comments. He was tired.
“If you do not, she will only get worse. My love, let us go see her and at least hear what she has to say about her actions.” she insisted, and Aenys could do nothing but relent.
She called for the servants to come dress him, as he could not make a statement in his plain clothes. The fine purple robes felt heavy, everything did. His wife was right, he could not keep accepting disrespect, but he was in no mood to make a fuss.
Accompanied by his Kingsguard, they made their way to the chamber of the painted table. His aunt was dressed regally, a statement of her own, but she was not overlooking the table, rather preferring the window. As always, her lady Rowan was by her side, writing down what she was telling her. Rowan looked up, surprised to see him and Alyssa, and curtsied promptly. Visenya remained unmoving, not acknowledging the King and Queen, a silent challenge to see if he dared to speak.
“Your grace-” Rowan spoke up, ready to fill their cups, but Alyssa stopped her.
“We would like some privacy, lady Evergreen.” Alyssa said, offering Rowan a kind smile. Rowan did not leave straight away, instead looking up to Visenya, to see what her orders would be. His aunt did not move from her place, but nodded at Rowan to dismiss her.
She offered them all another curtsy before leaving the room, but Aenys could swear she shot him a worried look, one that told him to watch his step, to not make enemies.
With Rowan gone, the room had an eerie silence. He could hear his own heart beating in his ears. He felt like a child about to be scolded, but Alyssa was angry at his aunt’s blatant disrespect. His wife shot him an expectant look, telling him to speak up. He took a breath and wished Rowan was not dismissed, as she could perhaps keep the peace between them.
“I hope you’re not feeling ill. I could only assume so, since you did not come to greet us.” he tried to sound confident, the way Alyssa needed him to be. His aunt still did not move to face them, but her face hardened. He could feel a lump in his throat as he braced himself for impact.
“Did you find my lady’s greeting lacking?” she asked coldly, her tone harsh. The question was ironic, as it was another challenge to push him further. He felt Alyssa shift next to him.
“It is customary to greet your King and Queen in person.” she said, her voice moving dangerously close to passive aggressive. His aunt, once more, refused to turn. Her eyes were pinned somewhere outside, in the yard.
“Is it now?” she asked coldly. “As you can see, I am terribly busy preparing the castle for potential attacks- I know the concept is completely foreign to you both, but it is a demanding task.” her words dripped with condescension. Both Aenys and Alyssa stiffened, as Visenya slowly turned to face them, looking down at them as if they were but bothersome children and not the King and Queen. “Tell me, how did you manage to humiliate yourselves even more, then come running here demanding I come say hello to you?” she asked.
“What happened in King’s Landing was… unfortunate. As you know, the Red Keep is not yet finished and…” he trailed. It was a lie. What happened shook him to his core, but he had to stand tall, or at the very least try to. “I can only hope your feelings toward me need not be made public. I do not wish to reprimand you for disrespect.” he managed to say, before his aunt let out a cold laugh.
“Reprimand me?” she laughed. “Where did this nerve come from?” she challenged him, but Aenys did not know how to respond, so she went on. “You exile my son, you grant his title to your brat of a son, and yet what do you have to show for it?” she spat, her anger no longer masked. He did not have time to react to the insults before Alyssa did.
“Aegon is the heir to the throne.” she stated, her tone hiding an almost threat, like she was trying to put his aunt in her place. “It is only natural that he is the Prince of Dragonstone. Your husband was the one who planned this.” she said that last sentence with a pointed look, like she wanted to hit her where she knew it would hurt, angered by the insult hurled at their son.
Aenys froze completely when she brought up his father. Alyssa was never this bold or fierce before. She was lively and charming and kind, but never quick to anger. He assumed it was because she was with child, her instincts to defend her children being heightened. Not to mention all the stress of the past moons. He wanted to admire her, had this not been the worst possible thing to say to his aunt.
Visenya’s eyes hardened and if looks could kill, they’d be dead where they stood. Her gaze was ice cold and he could feel himself shrinking in fear as she slowly walked closer to them, until she was standing right before them, towering above him like he was still a small child.
“Strong words coming from a fool. Do you think your boy will even have a throne to inherit with how you’ve been running things? Where is he now? Being chased down by rebels?” she asked, staring Alyssa down. Aenys just wanted to disappear.
“Is this amusing to you?” his wife demanded when she saw the smirk on his aunt’s face.
“Hilarious.” she spat. “It is hilarious to me that you come to my home demanding respect you’ve done nothing to earn, but I suppose it cannot be helped, since you’ve both been spoiled rotten.” she crossed her arms as she stared them both down. Alyssa went to answer, but this time, he interrupted.
“I do not wish to fight, or argue with you.” he said, his tone almost pleading. He could not say the same for Alyssa. “I wish to protect my family from rebels. I’ve tried asking them what they want, to come to me with their concerns, but they only hurl insults at me-” he began to explain, before he saw the flash of anger in Visenya’s eyes.
“You are a fool and a weakling, nephew. Do you think any man would’ve ever dared speak so to your father?” she asked. Aenys did not even have to answer, they all knew no one would dare. “You have a dragon. Use him. Fly to Oldtown and make this Starry Sept another Harrenhal, or give me leave and let me roast this pious fool for you.”
Her words hung in the air and he found it hard to breathe. His first instinct was to say no, to deny her call to violence. But was this not why he was considering calling for Maegor to return? His aunt was right, no man would dare speak to his father the way the rebels spoke to him, and neither would they speak so to Maegor. They knew better.
He could not imagine himself flying into battle with Quicksilver. He flew often, at least he used to, before his father’s death. His mother would take him flying on Meraxes when he was small, until his Quicksilver was big enough to ride, and then they’d take to the skies together. He was no warrior, and neither was his dragon. He could not risk her getting hurt by his own foolishness. He loved Quicksilver, she was a part of him. She flew above their ship the whole time it took for them to sail here.
“Do not speak to him like that!” Alyssa’s voice snapped him back to reality. Her first instinct was to defend her husband, another trait he would admire if he was not worried his aunt would strike them both down with Dark Sister, which she carried everywhere.
“Or what? What will you do?” Visenya asked, her tone almost amused, like she was arguing with a child throwing a tantrum, which only angered Alyssa more.
“Please, enough of this!” he pleaded, standing in between them. “The hour grows late, let us all rest. We shall discuss this tomorrow.” he looked at his aunt, trying to silently ask her to see him and not ignore his presence.
“Very well.” his aunt concluded.
The tension was still thick in the air, but the guard’s announcement of Lady Rowan’s return brought a sense of relief to Aenys. She rushed in the room, not offering any pleasantries or curtsies, instead walking up to his aunt, her face flushed with worry.
“Your graces, forgive me for interrupting, but the news I’ve just received are rather urgent.” she apologised, showing the raven scroll in her hands. Aenys could feel his heart stop- had something happened to his son and daughter?
“What happened?” his aunt asked promptly, meeting her lady halfway across the room. It was then that he recognised the opened seal on the scroll, green, a Hightower seal. He shared an alarmed look with Alyssa, the realisation that something could’ve happened to their good sister hitting them. Rowan took in a shaky breath.
“Lord Manfred Hightower is dead.” she announced to them all, but her eyes were on Visenya, whom she handed the scroll to. “A fever has taken him.” she added, with worry clear on her face. Her mind was clearly going to her friend, Ceryse. “His eldest son, Lord Martyn Hightower is now the Lord of the Hightower, the head of his house, beacon of the south, defender of Oldtown and the Citadel and Lord of the Port.” she finished the announcement, trying to sound as proper as she could.
Thursday edits for angels surrounded by angels Shan'ann Cathryn Rzucek and Bella&Nico and CeCe, Candela Sol Rodriguez, Alyssa Jane West, Emma Nicole Speer, Avielle Richman, Ava Jordan Wood, Leiliana Wright, Saffie-Rose Brenda Roussos, Lily Peters, Olivia Pratt Korbel, Sara Sharif, Charlotte Figi, Jersey Dianne Bridgeman, Lucy Morgan, Mercedes Losoya, Norah Lee Howard, Sloan Mattingly, Audrii Cunningham, Judith Barsi and Heather O'Rourke, Makenna Lee Elrod Seiler, Eliahna Torres, Jackie Cazares, Mary E. Sullivan, Olivia Grace Thompson, Lester Stillwell, Alexis Brianne “Lexi” Stempien, Blake Lee Stafford, Emma Grace Stacks, Kelly Doyle Sparks, Christy Lea Sparks, Kelsey Shelton Smith-Briggs, Michael Daniel Smith, Alexander Tyler “Alex” Smith, Laura Ashley Skinner, James Asa Rudder, Ashley Nicole Romer, Jennifer Jailene Rodriguez, Angel Divine Randall, Miakailah Renee Ramsey-Franklin, JonBenét Ramsey, Kelli Shay Powell, Allyceea Mabel Brynne Ennis, Janet Carol Pierick, Patricia Sue Phillips, Pete Peterson I, Kaitlyn Nikol Pukatsch Parsons, Cheyenne Rose “Chey Chey” Newton, Emanuel Wesley Murray Jr., Maud H. Munn, Doris Denise Milner, Bruce Edward Miller, Ruby Miller, Lucille Miller, Gwenyth Marie McWethy, Natallie Elizabeth McNelly, Minnie E. McKendrick, Bradley Gene McGee, Joanne Ena Lynn, Jessica Marie Lunsford, Brittani Lynn LaFollette, Eva Gladys “Gladys” Kincaid, Elisa Izquierdo, James Alan Ray Hubbard, Catherine Violet Hubbard, Janessa Micheala “Nessie” Horner, Nina Viktoria “Tori” Bashenova Hilt, Angela Dawn Harter, Michelle Heather Guse, Lori Lee Farmer, Anna Katherine Grudziecke, Edith Clare “Edie” Grierson, Aiyana Emily Gauvin, Thomas Edwards Gallagher, Gerald Alfred Gaddy, Annie L Foster, Leah Foster Whitacre, Julie Alliot, Rowan Damia Ford, Kathy Fiscus, Mary Ruth Davis, Ettie E. Davis, Joan Angela D'Alessandro, Tessara Kate “Tessa” Crespi, Samantha Joy “Sammie” Crespi, Nina Craigmiles, Lacy Cheyenne Cook, Eleanor Emily Cook, Edward Parsons Cook, Dakoda James Clapper, Nevaeh Amyah Buchanan, Hayley Renae Reasor Briggs, Noelle Elizabeth Braun, Skylar Mark Brady, Edna Louise Blank, Celeste Elizabeth Berg, Teri Earlene Bender, Katherine Marie “Kathy” Beets, Barbara Ann Barnes, Bessie Barker, Baylee Almon, Marivel Mercedez Alvarez, Jessica Anders, Elli Grace Perez-Speer, Adilynn Holmes Speer, Anniston Noel Speer, Ciara Nicole Floyd, Nelani Ciara Koefer, Jade Nicole Simmons, Elizabeth Ann Byrd, Story Wren Worth, Abigail Elizabeth “Abby” Fedosoff, Kezia Mason, Isabella Sara “Bella” Tennant, Avery Lana Linda Brown, Sadako Sasaki, Sarah McKayla Brooks, Jessica Scatterson,Jessica Marie Bock, Layla Salazar, Emma Catherine Grace Thompson,
DANVILLE – Danville Area Community College has released a list of its honor students for the Spring 2023 Semester.
A student must carry 12 or more credit hours and a straight A (4.0) average on a 4.0 scale to be included on the President’s List. To be included on the Honors List, a student must carry 12 or more credit hours and have a B+ (3.5) grade point average on a 4.0 scale.
Danville Area Community College
Spring 2023 President’s & Honors Lists
President’s List
Spain
Candela Nevares Garcia; Maria Sobany Bosch
Malawi
Josephine Kamwela
Florida
Tampa
Briana Hernandez
Illinois
Alvin
Nicholas Garmon
Armstrong
Olivia Logue; Justin Wilken
Bismarck
Allison Bostwick; Landon Potter; Dianne Trimble
Catlin
Kayleigh Davis; Holden Dunavan; Taylor Garwood; Macallister Hill; Rebecca Rogers
Champaign
Mark Hardwidge
Charleston
Ashlynn McPeak
Chrisman
Chris Christensen
Crescent City
Madison Hamilton
Danville
Wariya Alhassan; Joan Applegate; Amber Atkinson; Rebecca Balla; Xitlally Bonilla; Ne'Kedra Cain; Anna Carrion; Rowan Clawson; Jeremiah Cooper; Isabella Courson; Hannah Creed; Joel Cundiff; Olivia Edgington; Noah Gomez; Teagyn Goodwin; Meghan Gross; Dalton Hagley; Marlee Harper; Jennifer Huckstadt; Lindsey Janssen; Tamara Jimson; Anna Lehmann; Lenox Li; Latana Lillard; Layla Martinez; Jacob Maskel; Amanda Nelson; Carson Pollom; Ethan Rayburn; Sierra Ritter; Janaeja Rose; Edwin Sanchez; Braeden Skoog; Maxeen Smart; Kember Spickard; Lewis Towne; Britney Van Camp; Charlene Walsh; Grace Ward; Cassie Warren; Madison Watson; Katelyn Welch; Donald Wills
Fairmount
Aaron Dean
Hoopesotn
Tori Birge; Gage Hopkins; Amanda Inman; Skyler Morgan
Mahomet
Ahmad Al-Heeti
Mattoon
Raven Morrison
Milford
Craig VanHoveln
Oakwood
Rebekah Allsopp; Lane Bensyl; Jarron Fleming; Travis Goodner; Hayley Mascari; Kimberly Montgomery; Grant Powell; Charles Rieches; Brevin Wells
Paris
Drew Pinkston
Philo
Kyleigh Weller
Potomac
Violet McCool; Seth Pollitt
Ridge Farm
Chloe Pickett
Rossville
Heidi Goble; Hunter Howe; Morgan Miller
Sidell
Hazelyn Hunter
Tuscola
Alexis Koester
Urbana
Stella Obasi; Kanayochukwu Onyedibe
Westville
Chloe Brant; Caleb Brasker; Jack Duensing; Joshua Miller; Emma Myers
Indiana
Anderson
Jacob Lee
Brazil
Hayden Smith
Cayuga
Angela Schwartzkopf
Covington
Alyssa Cheuvront; Margo Galloway; Briley Peyton; Calvin Springer; Alexandra VanVickle
EXCITING news!!!!! As you all know, Alyssa-Grace volunteers for an HCLI program that uses art to bring Christ to the heathens of “Sin City.” (You may know the city by it’s real- but INACCURATE- name, San Myshuno.) We are SO proud of her artistic TALENT, selfless SPIRIT, and dedication to SPREADING the “good news” about our Lord and Savior.
As a volunteer, Ally G was eligible to enter the program’s annual YOUNG FOLKS’ ART COMPETITION...and she won first prize! The judges LOVED her painting of Jesus!! But the best part of the night was when she thanked ME for making it possible!! I was so SHOCKED- practically CRYING- when she said “Thank you, Mother! Your support and advice made this happen!” I’m so blessed!! 😇😭
It’s no secret that I get a kick out of baby name themes. In general, I think having a “theme” is kind of stupid, but I respect the folks who commit to one, even if they have a dozen kids and have to get super creative.
Keep reading for a list of all the fundies I know of with a distinct name theme, some of the best/worst names to come out of those themes, and my general thoughts.
Jim Bob + Michelle. The OGs with their single-letter theme, they gave us such ridiculous name choices as Jinger, Jordyn-Grace, Jana and Joy-Anna and Johannah, and Joseph and Josiah and Josie. And who could forget the twins Jeremiah Robert and Jedidiah Robert? The Duggars are icons in the world of bad baby names.
Josh + Anna. Remember when we (or maybe just Anna and I) thought all the Duggar kids would do a letter theme? The Ms are a nice way to suck up to honor Michelle. I’m weirdly partial to the Ms because my name is Meredith and I once had a friend who called me “Dithy.” However, Anna loses points for her unnecessary Ys in the girls’ names (except Meredith, who could have easily been Meredyth or Merydith) and for the abomination that is Maryella. Mary Ella, Mary-Ella, MaryElla would all have been preferable. Also, I am STILL in shock that she used the name Madyson.
Jessa + Ben. For boys, they’re using names of theologians and Church leaders. For girls, they’re using plants. Spurgeon remains the Worst Ever Baby Name, and I hate that they paired it with Elliott, one of my favorite names. I’m at a loss for what name they’ll use for future boys. For future girls, I can see Laurel, Rose, Clementine, or Clover. (Think more old-timey than Josie’s name choices.)
Josiah + Lauren. The ABC theme. Honestly, this one makes me a little uneasy to speculate on because it makes it so obvious if/when they lose a pregnancy. If we ever learn the name of Lauren’s secret baby, and it’s a D name, then we know she had another loss. The whole thing just makes me a little bit sad, especially when they’ve gone to such great lengths to stay private.
Alyssa + John. Ok, this isn’t exactly a “theme,” but it’s a really obvious trend. All her girls have a two syllable first name and single syllable middle. The first names are usually kind of nickname-y, something cutesy that sounds great on a toddler but maybe not so much on a grown adult. If she has any more girls, I can see her mix-and-matching from the following: Ellie, Lucy, Annie, Betsy, and Belle, Kate, Sue, and Lou.
Josie + Kelton. Has Josie said whether her girls’ names were meant to be a matchy set? I’m not sure. If they want to keep up the pattern, I can see them using Rowan, Aspen, Rue, Iris, or Juniper. For boys, maybe Asher, Rowan, Sage, Forest, or Linden.
Dwain + Lana Swanson. The girls get L names, and the boys get D names. They didn’t try to keep it biblical, so there aren’t any wackadoodle names. (Though I think Duke is a pretty bad name, personally.) I wish we know the name of Baby10 or had any confirmation about him. He just kind of appeared.
John + Esther Shrader. Their boys get biblical names (which is barely a theme because there are just so many to choose from) and the girls get Greek virtue names. For my detailed thoughts on them, see here.
Priscilla + David Waller. The Wallers have had 6 kids in a boy-girl streak, making it unclear if they’re using P for boys and D for girls, or if they just want to switch between P and D from one kid to the next. I’m SUPER curious to see where this one goes because they’ve been pretty biblical so far. (Davia is just the female form of David, and Destiny Faith is a weird predestination-plus-trusting-in-Jesus thing.) But they’re running out of “normal” names from the Bible. If they keep up the biblical names, possible future kids include: Paula, Phoebe, Penninah, Phineas, Philemon, Persis, Daniel, Darius, Demetrius, Dinah, Dorcas, Drusilla.
Nathan + Nurie. I’ve written before about my thoughts on this theme, including totally not serious predictions.
Josiah + Abi Wissmann. They’ve done something similar to Priscilla + David, using the parents’ initials as a theme. Their kids are Joanna, Asher, Jennifer, and Andron. It’s unclear if they are doing a boy-girl thing or just alternating from child to child.
Chris + Courtney Rogers. I keep forgetting about them. I’m gonna be honest--I hate the name they’ve picked. The single syllable boys names drive me nuts. Clint, Case, Colt, Cash--they feel like dog names, not people names. As for the girls names, they’re... meh. Cambria is delightfully weird, but the rest aren’t good enough for me to like or awful enough for me to be entertained by.
Nathan + Melanie Maxwell. With the exception of their late firstborn daughter, they’ve been doing an alphabetical theme... with a twist. They restarted the alphabet for the boys. Abigail, Bethany, Christina, Andrew, Benjamin, Deborah. As far as sibsets go, I like it! It’s biblical but not “out there,” not super matchy, but still orderly.
Carson + Carolina Bontrager. Jubilee and Jemima--what weird choices. The Bowers-Bontrager couples delight me with their double wedding, their kids born so close together, their parallel name themes. I’m really curious what other names they’ll choose.
Joshua + Cassidy Bontrager. Wallace and Winston, not as weird as Jubilee and Jemima. These Bowers-Bontragers just tickle the part of my brain that likes patterns.
Curtis + Lauren Bowers. Much like the Rogers family, all their kids’ names begin with C. It’s led to some interesting choices, like Crockett and Crosby.
((Also Karissa Collins, but I'm too exhausted to talk about her. Plus, I think it was Jen of Fundie Fridays who said is feels like "kicking down?" Her baby name choices are awful, but she has much, much bigger issues going on.))
POSSIBLE, UNCONFIRMED THEMES
Jill + Derick. They haven’t outright SAID they’re using an “el” theme, but I hope they do. I see them trying for a girl after Baby 3 is born. Israel, Samuel, Gabriel, and Selah. (As for the theory that they’re trying to spell ISRAEL with the initials, I don’t buy it. I think “River Bliss” was the sort of name that they chose for catharsis dealing with loss, like Jinger and Halleli Grace, or even Michelle and Jubilee Shalom. It’s a name with significance, but not a name that I think Jill would have used on a child earthside.)
Joseph + Kendra. The double letters! Is it coincidence? Is it intentional? Who knows! If they keep it up, some possible names include Everett, Bennett, Emma, Charlotte, and Beckett.
NAMES THAT WOULD BE THEMES IF THEY DIDN’T MESS IT UP
Paul + Christina Caldwell. They were ALMOST doing an alphabetical theme. Kendra, Lauren, Micah, Nathan. Then Timothy ruins it, but they switch back to Olivia. Jesiah, Isaiah, and Moriah are so different from the other names (which could all pass as secular, even if they aren’t), I have no idea what they were thinking. Before Moriah, their girls all had non-biblical, popular names. What is with these choices?????
Daniel Beasley + Bethany Wissmann. Up until Felicity, they had a thing going where they went alphabetically, skipping a letter each time. Arianna, Caden, Everett, Gemma. I thought there was a pattern. And then Felicity happened.
I heard some people wanted a list of the voiced names so far, so I took the time to copy down all of the names from A to Z. The names are under the cut to not clutter.
Tags: hurt/comfort, friends to lovers, angst, mature themes, targaryen incest, violence, Maegor is a red flag himself, characters are ooc probably, MINORS DNI
The following weeks were chaos for Aenys. He heard the whispers of the lords, calling him weak, a pushover, he saw the way his aunt looked at him with that look of disappointment whenever she set eyes on him. The crown weighed even heavier on his shoulders than ever before. It used to be one of his more favoured possessions, as he had designed it together with his mother, but instead of it bringing happy memories to his mind, the sight of it only deepened the thought that his parents would be so disappointed in him for not being able to handle the realm they had built now that Maegor was gone.
He could excuse the lords he heard speak lowly of him, they did not know him personally and truly, who could stand in the shadow of Aegon the Conqueror? But the disappointment his aunt had for him was something he could not shake off at all. No matter what decision he made, never once did she praise him or agree with him. He wasn’t sure why he was so hopeful that she would, he didn’t even know if she did so for Maegor, but perhaps part of him wanted his aunt, his mother’s sister, to approve of him.
She hadn’t caused any fuss at all, largely because of lady Rowan talking to her about it, or so he assumed. The young lady Evergreen had not given him any report of his aunt plotting something, so amidst the chaos of the revolts across the realm, Aenys had made the assumption that things were fine. Now that he had a small moment to breathe, he realised that it would not be wise to leave the subject completely unattended.
He had some hope that his aunt would initiate conversation first, but so far, nothing. Not even when he and Alyssa had announced her fourth pregnancy, now that a few months had passed and she felt safe enough to do so. His aunt didn’t even seem to have a reaction, if anything, it could even appear that she frowned. He knew she had no love for him, but the idea that she could even hate him ate at him. He understood that not everyone would love him, but hate? Alyssa had urged him to find a way to talk to his aunt, to find a way to get her to like him. He and his wife had that in common, they wanted to be well liked.
That morning, he saw Rowan make her way back to his aunt’s solar, holding a large basket that was covered up with a cloth. Of course he was curious, but he had to attend the meeting with his small council, which only seemed to bring forth more bad news for him to hear. It was much later in the day when Aenys found the time to send for the young lady so that they could properly talk.
She looked calm when she walked in the room, despite the rising tensions in the realm. Surely, being on his aunt’s good side gave the young lady a certain peace of mind.
“Your grace.” she curtsied, showing her respect. He wondered where this conversation would take them, if she was going to be honest with him or just cover up for anything strange his aunt might be up to. It was difficult to not be paranoid, knowing that Rowan was by his aunt’s side since she was small, it wouldn’t be a crazy idea would it?
“Come in, my lady, please sit.” he replied in the same polite tone, motioning to the large sofa and the seat near him. She hesitated for a moment, perhaps not used to being this close to him the same way she seemed to be with his goodsister and goodbrothers, but she did take a seat. “I saw you bringing my aunt a very full basket. Might I ask what it contained?” he asked, deciding to get straight to the point.
“Mostly herbs, your grace.” Rowan did not hesitate. She noticed the confused expression that crossed Aenys’ face and continued. ”For as long as I can remember, she’s been interested in botany. Once in a while, I go into the city to refill her stock.” she explained.
“Botany…” he trailed. What business did his aunt have with botany? They had an abundance of maesters for that task, why would she spend her time with it all? “She’s always had strange hobbies, hasn’t she?” he laughed lightly, trying to ease the small awkwardness between him and the young lady. She didn’t laugh.
“I don’t think it’s strange at all.” she said, her tone confused. Aenys studied her expression for a moment. Rowan tilted her head, waiting for him to expand, but Aenys didn’t.
“Well, you did grow up with her.” he smiled. Of course, Rowan wouldn’t find it strange, she has been seeing it since she was a girl. It made sense. It did make him wonder what else his aunt told her as she was growing up. Was she always like this, a little handmaiden or a student? What a curious relationship they had.
“Lots of people are interested in botany, your grace. Where I’m from it’s very common.” she explained, gently telling him his assessment of his aunt was wrong. She seemed to hesitate again, but decided to say what she was thinking. “Your father would sometimes gift her books and supplies through the years.” she said, giving him a small smile. He never heard of this before. For the longest time, his father could barely stand in the same room as his aunt, but he supposed sending her gifts was not a crazy notion.
“Really? I didn’t know… I mean, I do know that they got close near… near the end…” he trailed, leaning forward, the topic catching his full interest and attention. It felt strange to pry on this specific relationship, since his father never spoke of it. Even when they were mending things and he moved back to Dragonstone, he never really spoke to Aenys about it in detail. He had always chalked it up to the fact that he was going on a royal progress, but perhaps there was much more there. Who’d know better than the lady sitting next to him?
“He’d send her things for her nameday, I’m guessing because he felt guilty for not being there or celebrating her.” she said, but her voice indicated that she was not telling him what was truly on her mind. He didn’t blame her, it must be a strange place for her to be in, but he hoped she understood that this was important for him to know. Guilt… His father felt a lot of guilt when his mother was killed. Guilt that he lost the love of his life over a war that went nowhere, when he could’ve just been satisfied with the six kingdoms he did conquer. But he never thought he’d hold any guilt for his aunt.
“I always assumed she wouldn’t care for celebrations.” he said honestly. His aunt never seemed to be one to celebrate occasions, but then again she wasn’t present for many celebrations for him to know. She never seemed to like King’s Landing, but he assumed that compared to Dragonstone, the home she was born and raised in, the Red Keep was yet to become the castle that would be worthy of their family. He needed to get on with that, he hasn’t even looked at the building plans since his father’s untimely death.
“Why would the Queen not want to be celebrated by her husband before the realm?” she asked him, raising her brows, almost in disbelief that he even said that and had that assumption in the first place. He was taken aback and his face must’ve shown, because Rowan was also surprised by her own tone. “Forgive me, your grace, I did not mean to speak out of turn-”
“Do not apologise, I truly do wish to know what you think. I admit I know very little of my aunt, and I wish for that to change, but she’s refusing to even be in the same room as me at the moment.” he interrupted her and assured her he wanted to hear what she thought with no filter. He was well aware that people did not tell him the whole of what they truly thought and that bothered him. He loved to get to know people, to understand them. “She always frightened me as a child, you know? She was always so cold and distant toward me.” he sighed, thinking back to her imposing figure whenever she visited the capital. “Did she ever frighten you?” he asked her, curiosity overcoming him. Rowan smiled.
“Not frightened, no. I was intimidated though, just as I was when I met your parents. I never thought I’d meet royalty, let alone when I was a child. Everything was different, I was away from home, so I found everything strange and I was worried I’d do something wrong and offend someone.” she laughed lightly, making Aenys smile as well. She must’ve been awestruck to see dragons up close. Everyone was. “She was always kind and welcoming to me, allowing me free reign of the library on Dragonstone, and she even let me join in the lessons her son was receiving. She often helped me with High Valyrian too.” Rowan said, smiling again. Aenys was a bit stunned. It was like his aunt was a completely different person, like there was a gentle and caring side to her that he was not deemed worthy to witness. He couldn’t picture his aunt, his harsh, scary and cold aunt, being welcoming and warm to a little girl, even if she was the daughter of her advisor.
“And what about Maegor?” he asked carefully, knowing it was a subject that stung her, but he wanted to know. He still hurt mentioning his brother, he could only imagine how Rowan would feel. “Did he frighten you?” he asked. Maegor was unsettling as a child, one got the feeling that his eyes saw right through you once they landed on you, and his temper was unpredictable whenever he was around. It was difficult to see what he’d have in common with someone as normal and calm as Rowan.
“No, not at all.” she smiled a sad smile. “He was really grumpy and at first, I truly thought that I annoyed him. But it only took us a few weeks to get to know each other, and he truly became my best friend. He never frightened me.” she spoke with a sorrow of nostalgia, no doubt missing the days of her childhood. Aenys missed his too. He missed the warmth of his mother, the safety he felt with his father’s protection, the feeling of having a whole and complete family. Rowan must be missing her mother too. “Did he frighten you? I know he’s not exactly the friendliest.” she asked, catching him a bit off guard.
“Well…” he sighed, feeling a bit embarrassed. To say Maegor was not friendly would be the world’s biggest understatement. He was hostile and cold, always having that look of suspicion in his eyes. “My parents always told me to be wary of him. I remember one time when we were training at the same time, gods, he was vicious! He only had a wooden sparring sword, but I could swear he wanted to stab me! He managed to give me a huge bruise on my leg, gods, mother was taking care of it for weeks!” he laughed at the memory, but it hurt, now that his mother was no longer there to comfort him and his father no longer there to keep him safe.
“I remember that day.” Rowan said after some time. When he looked up, Aenys saw the frown on her lips and the sadness in her eyes. She had these doe-like green eyes and he was afraid he saw more sadness in them than he ever did joy. Such a shame.
“Really? Was it during one of your stays?” he asked, pleasantly surprised that she also had memories of that day. It must’ve been exciting for her to accompany her father in the capital during his father’s reign. The city truly flourished under him.
“Yes. I still remember it too.” she said softly. He could see she was once again contemplating if she truly wanted to continue, but Aenys silently urged her to go on. “He was so upset. I had returned from the sept and he was barricaded in his room.” “It was one of the few times I saw him cry.” Aenys stared at her in disbelief as she explained.
“Cry? Maegor? But he wasn’t at all hurt, not from what I can remember.” he said, almost wanting to call her a liar. Maegor was not one for tears, even as a young child. Everytime Aenys saw him, he was always covered in bruises and cuts and some sort of bandages. He was so sure that he was immune to physical pain at that point, and he highly doubted he did any real damage to his little brother that day. He couldn’t even if he tried.
“He was really hurt, but not because of a bruise or scrape. He wanted to impress your father so badly, and fighting seemed to be the only way to catch any of his attention. I told you, he used to train for hours upon hours, that day felt like his moment to truly shine. The late King never watched over him while he trained, so the fact that he even was there to begin with was huge to him. And despite doing his best, all of your father’s attention fell to you, all his praise and worry. Maegor was so hurt, he was disappointed for weeks. I remember trying everything to get him to cheer up.” she explained and Aenys felt like his breath was stuck in his lungs.
“But…” he furrowed his brows, confused. That day was pleasant, that day was good, how could their father ignore Maegor? She must be mistaken, her memory must be hazy from her grief, yes, that was it. “Surely father would’ve made up for that. There were other times they spent together, right?” he asked, looking at her. His father was the King, the very first King of Westeros, he had so much to take care of, of course he’d miss out on his children a bit, it was only natural.
“Not even when he knighted him.” she shook her head lightly as she spoke. Something about her tone, something about the sorrow in her green eyes, something about the disappointment she seemed to feel, it all made him get so defensive, as if she had pulled out a sword to attack his dead father.
“How can you be so sure? How can you know? My father, yes, he was never the same after mother’s death, but this cannot be the whole of it!” he asked, his tone sharp but his eyes pleading for her to tell him he was right, that the sinking feeling in his stomach was nothing to think about. Lady Rowan did not give him that reassurance this time.
“Maegor and I always told each other everything. We would talk at length about your father. He used to be so hopeful, you know? That one day, your father would come to Dragonstone and finally, they’d be a family, a complete family. He’d always tell me every little thing he noticed the late King did, if there was ever any time he did anything with just Maegor, he would’ve not stopped talking about it.” she said, her voice still gentle, like she knew already that her words would hurt him.
“I… My father, surely, he would…” There were sides of his father that he’d never see or fully understand, just like he was sure his own children would feel about him one day, but the sheer difference in what image he had left behind seemed monumental. Rowan’s eyes were understanding, allowing him time to think before she spoke up again.
“How often did he mention your brother to you? How many namedays did he celebrate with him, let alone throw feasts for? Gods be good, he never even told him he loved him. Would you ever do that to any of your children?” she asked, her tone soft, but firm. Aenys wasn’t the only one feeling defensive it seemed.
“No! Gods, no, of course not!” he answered, hurt that she’d even suggest such a thing. It felt overwhelming, it felt like she was accusing him of being willfully blind and complacent, and it was confusing. His father was never a man of many words, but he could recall moments when he told him he loved him, few and rare as precious gems. Precious gems his brother was desperate to find, but was never able to. His father always threw feasts for Aenys’ namedays and he recalled how Maegor was always bitter during the weeklong celebrations. He assumed he hated fun, but had he truly been so blind, so unwilling to be empathetic?
“The late King was a great warrior and a fair ruler, but he was no father to Maegor.” she said with a frown. Aenys frowned as well. What did she know of Aegon the Conqueror, when she was barely in his presence? How could she ever make such an assessment of his character and speak it so boldly to his son? Was this what Visenya spent her years teaching her and Maegor? To blame it all on the late King?
“Well, if my aunt had allowed him to grow up here in court, father would’ve had the chance to be in his life.” Aenys spat out before thinking any further. Rowan had been calm and understanding whenever they spoke, but what he said made her angry.
“Everytime she brought him here, your parents would only ignore him and avoid him. Being around them did way more damage than it did good, to both your brother and your aunt. And why should it have fallen on her to fix things when it was your father that messed them up in the first place? He had a dragon, Dragonstone is only a few hours away, even fewer considering he had Balerion. He chose not to be around.” she countered, looking at him for an answer, knowing he couldn’t give one. For that moment, he felt like a scolded child.
“It’s not their fault my aunt distanced herself!” he said, feeling somehow cornered, despite the fact that the lady sat next to him had no power in comparison to him. His defence was a weak one, he knew it as soon as it left his mouth, but she spoke up before he could add any more substance to it.
“How exactly is it not their fault? They treated her presence as something to be tolerated, when everyone knew they’d never have achieved any of this without her, and yet they ignored her, pushed her away. You might’ve been sheltered from it all, but I was right by her side, holding her hand. How would you feel if Alyssa pushed you aside and took another husband, ignored you and the children she had with you in favour of her new family, all the while you had to sit there and watch as she humiliated you, because if you made any fuss you’d be labelled crazy and it would show rifts in the family that had to appear solid. Can you imagine the hurt and the betrayal she had felt?”
Silence. Stunned silence. Her angry tone was not something he ever thought he’d hear. Aenys had always prided himself on his ability to be empathetic to people, his allies, his opponents, anyone and everyone, so why had he never extended that to his aunt, he couldn’t know. Rowan’s gaze made him feel ashamed, as everything was there, right before his eyes in order to reach that conclusion and yet he never did. Perhaps he knew deep down, but he knew that thinking too much about these things never led anywhere good. He felt like a coward. Like he had been closing his eyes willingly ignoring anything that could stain the perfect sculpture he had crafted in his mind of his parents, and Rowan had just thrown a giant rock at it, damaging it. He sat there silently, trying to calm his beating heart. It felt as though someone was chasing him.
His aunt was never someone he could picture betraying, as it would mean certain death. He had always known that things were tense between his parents and her, but they had always made it out to be because of something she had done. Rowan clearly had a different perspective. She looked like a child defending her mother, just as Aenys was a few moments ago. As the silence grew, her features calmed while she thought.
“Your parents and their memories, they’re holy to you. As they should be. But they were people, not saints. I am angry at her, you cannot imagine how angry I still am and I’m sure you are too, but you do not get to use her as some villain in order to sanctify your parents." She spoke slowly, her tone gentle and soft once more, but it was firm.
Was that what he was doing? It felt like an accusation in many ways, but he couldn’t bring himself to speak to refute it. To ever think that his parents never did anything wrong was foolish, everyone messed up sometimes, and yet it was so incredibly impossible for him to accept all that Rowan was saying, no matter how much sense it all made.
“She truly did raise you.” he concluded after some time. Sometimes she sounded like a young maiden, sometimes like a wise old crone, but the influence his aunt had on her was unmistakable, if one knew how to look and what to look for. He would never expect it from someone like Rowan, someone so quiet and sweet, and yet there it was.
“I’m happy she did.” she replied, a tiny smile on her lips. There was another moment of silence and Aenys grew a bit uncomfortable.
“Do you think she was raising you to be Maegor’s wife?” he asked, without thinking. The question clearly took Rowan completely off guard, as it was now her turn to be stunned into silence. “She raised you by his side, taught you our language and customs personally, she trusts you like a daughter… Have you ever thought about it this way?” he asked, trying to not appear too insane for springing that onto her out of nowhere.
“I don’t think so.” she finally concluded after her moment of reflection. “No, I don’t think she did. She always told Maegor that his marriage would be a political one and from what I recall, she was reviewing a lot of potential matches for him. She was furious with the late King for taking that choice away from her. I’m not sure when exactly she decided to advocate for us to marry, but by the time she did, it was already too late and word had been sent to Oldtown. I don’t think she was raising me to marry him, but perhaps she saw me as someone safe for her son to be with, someone she could trust.” she explained.
Aenys let that sink in for a moment. It wasn’t an unfair question he had asked her, was it? His aunt was always selective on everything, even more so when it came to her one and only son. It wasn’t that crazy of a notion that she would pick a young, highborn girl and raise her to be the perfect example of a match for him. But then again, Rowan’s explanation made sense. If she had been planning this all along, she would’ve fought way harder for it to come to fruition, but it was not the case.
“It saddens me that they fought so much…” he sighed sadly. As strange of a relationship his father and aunt seemed to have, he never relished in seeing his aunt sad and lonely. He was at least glad they didn’t fight nearing his father’s end.
“She loved him. Despite everything, despite how horribly he treated her, no matter how much he hurt her, she still loved him. She would’ve still died to protect him, even though I could never fully understand. Things were finally getting good between them, after all those years she spent alone, missing him. He moved to Dragonstone and was finally a husband to her, a proper one, not just in name, and then he was taken from her. She still mourns for him, even when you think she’s not.” Rowan explained, almost like she was still in disbelief of the depths of love his aunt held for his late father. It was something he could grow to admire.
“She should be glad to have someone like you by her side. I can see that you love her very much, both her and my brother, that you’re willing to be so forthcoming with your King.” Aenys smiled, the tension that arose before now completely gone. Rowan’s eyes widened at the realisation of how casual and informal she had been with him and was quick to an apology, but Aenys stopped her.
“I’m sorry, your grace, I thought-”
“None of that. Please, call me Aenys.” he smiled tiredly. How many people were tip toeing around him, telling him half truths that he wanted to hear? This was important, this was necessary. “If you wouldn’t mind it, I will call you Rowan.” he said, feeling at ease again.
“If you wish it… Aenys.” she tried it, trying to not feel weird calling him by his first name and not his highest title. “Look, I’m really sorry if I overstepped, if I pushed too much on topics that are sensitive.” she apologised again, looking like she truly meant it. It was then he noticed that she also looked exhausted from everything, perhaps what led her to be so frank with him in the first place.
“No. You told me things that hurt me, things that angered me.” he insisted, looking toward the grand window of his solar, overlooking the sea. “Which is exactly why I need you by my side. I need someone to tell me the truth of things without fear, even if it’s something that will hurt.” he explained. She would make a very useful ally to have. If not now, in the future, when Maegor would return. “I know. I know that in my mind, my parents are saints. And that has made me turn a blind eye to some things.” he sighed, finally trying to wrap his head around it all, trying not to feel completely overwhelmed.
“It’s only normal. I lost my mother so young, I cannot for the life of me imagine her as anything other than the smart, caring and loving mother she was to me. But she was much more than that, much more than a nostalgic memory. She was a person, one that surely had moments when she got angry and fought with her parents and siblings, and wasn't so selfless and kind and loving. Because she was human. Just as your parents were.” Rowan explained kindly. He remembered she lost her mother young, Edith, was it? Something they had in common. They seemed to have a lot in common, and it calmed Aenys a lot. He wasn’t sure why. She just had a calming energy around her, despite feeling tense before.
“Are you always this empathetic to people you hate, Rowan? My parents, I mean, that was a very sweet thing to say.” he lightly laughed. The more she talked, the more the truth came out, she had a hard time hiding her distaste. This time, she did not start apologising, but she did have a sad gleam in her eyes again. He could see why Maegor was so fond of her, she was a beautiful woman. It was a shame he mostly saw her sad.
“I don’t hate your parents.” she countered. “I never knew your mother personally, but your father… All I can think of when I think of him is all the hurt he caused to two people I love very much.” she admitted, her voice almost too soft to hear if one wasn’t actively doing so.
“After everything?” he asked with his voice full of sympathy. After they both betrayed her? He supposed there was a lot more there than just betrayal, built upon years and years of love.
under the cut are name ideas for your characters (with meaning) if you're struggling to find one that fits! there is a mixture of generic and odd names, but overall underused in the rpc! they will be seperated into female, male, and unisex!! i hope this helps, and if you need anymore name ideas don’t be afraid to send me a message for some more! i might make a part two if i find or remember more names that weren’t here!!
female:
joanna/johanna/joanne - gift from god
roxanne - dawn of the day
claudia - lame
suzanne - lily
nancy - grace
audrey - noble and strong
calliope - beautiful voice
paulette - small and humble
kiana - ancient
lorelai - to watch a cliff/ambush cliff
effy - well spoken
renata - born again
darby - free from envy
darcy - dark
greta - pearl
mellie - brave strength
veena - musical
brandy - flaming torch
shannon - wise river
sionna - possessor of wisdom
daisy - day’s eye
lara - famous, protection, and cheerful
margot - pearl
lynette - bird
alice - noble
edie - prosperous in war
rosemary - dew of the sea, bitter rose
nicolette - people of victory
lana - harmony
siobhan - the lord is gracious
helen - bright, shining light
helena - bright, shining light
yelena - shining one
natalia - birthday of the lord
enya - fire
anya - grace
samantha - told by god
felicity - good fortune
ramona - wise protector
matilda - battle mighty
bronwyn - white breast
laura - bay laural
blanche - white
cassandra - prophetess
bonnie - beautiful, cheerful
nadia - hope
colette - people of victory
alyssa - noble
sabrina - river severn
beverly - dweller near the beaver stream
heather - a flowering evergreen plant
elodie - foreign riches
melody - song
posy/posey - a bunch of flowers
zelda - dark battle
libby - pledged to god
luna - moon
adina - slender, delicate
rhiannon - divine queen
dolores - lady of sorrows
dorothy - gift of god
agatha - good woman
hannah - grace
cher - beloved
alicia - noble
mina - protector
vanessa - literary invention, butterfly
marcella - warlike
marisa - of the sea
nora - light
janine - god is gracious
valentina - strength, health
valencia - brave, strong
ada - noble
jasmine - flower
magdalena - of magdala
gwendolyn - white ring
sophie/sophia/sofia - wisdom
letitia - joy, gladness
nicole - people of victory
naomi - pleasantness
hilda - battle woman
katerina - pure
audra - noble strength
wendy - friend
viola - violet
tilly - battle mighty
bernadette - brave as a bear
birdie - bird
mara - bitter
imogen - maiden
eloise - healthy, wide
amaya - night rain
amara - grace, bitter
mya/maya - water
diana - divine
anastasia - resurrection
genevieve - woman of the race
angelica - angelic
celine - heavenly
chrissa - follower of christ
myrtle - a flowering shrub
odessa - wrathful
beatrice/beatrix - she who brings happiness
winifred - blessed peacemaking
marnie - rejoice
velma - resolute protection
eleanor - light
elizabeth - pledged to god
ophelia/ofelia - help
gemma - precious stone
greta - pearl
christine - anointed
daphne - laurel or bay tree
juliette - youthful
amber - jewel
dinah - god will judge
danika - morning star
esther - star
marisol - mary of sun or solitude
mariella - bitter or wished for child
mariel - bitter
muriel - of the bright sea
phoebe - radiant, shining one
winona - firstborn daughter
olivia - olive tree
jessica - rich
yvonne - yew wood
camila - young ceremonial attendant
marcia - warlike
carrie/kerry - free man
victoria - victory
chloe - blooming, fertility
sabine - woman of the people
veronica - she who brings victory, true image
rachel - beautiful in form and countenance
wilhelmina - resolute protection
odeya - i will thank god
tabitha - gazelle
lacy - belonging to lace
willow - willow tree
charisma - charismatic
sarah - princess
sally - princess
cordelia - heart, daughter of the sea
jade - stone of the side
violet - purple
isadora - gift of isis
barbara - foreign woman
moxie - know how
brittany - from briton
dionne - divine
sonia/sonya - wisdom
sibyl - seer, oracle
mallory - unfortunate
male:
warren - park keeper
fitzgerald - son of gerald
fitzwilliam - son of william
tiago - saint james
gideon - hewer
clinton/clint - hilltop town
diego - supplanter
simon - the listener
charles - free man
zachary - the lord has remembered
edward - wealthy guardian
trevor - from the large village
gregory - vigilant, a watchman
gerald - ruler with the spear
holden - hollow valley
richard - dominant ruler
ronan - little seal
roman - of rome
frank - free man
peter - rock
stanley - near the stony clearing
sebastian - revered
fletcher - arrow maker
steve - garland, crown
jimmy - supplanter
dewey - beloved
james - supplanter
michael - who is like god?
garfield - triangle field
ethan - strong, firm
clive - lives near a cliff
owen - young warrior
jackson - son of jack
christopher - bearer of christ
ernest - serious or resolute
jeffrey - pledge of peace
dean - church official
leonard - brave lion
romeo - pilgrim to rome
duncan - dark warrior
trent - the flooder
malcom - malevolent, devotee of saint columba
roy - red haired
ross - upland, peninsula
bernard - strong, brave as a bear
jared - he descends
enrique - estate ruler
axel - father of peace
zayn/zane - god is gracious
xavier - new house or bright
zander - defending men
vincent - conquering
duke - nobility
bo/beau - handsome
william - resolute protection
finn/finnegan - fair
clyde - river
hunter - one who hunts
benjamin - benevolent, son of the right hand
garrett - spear strength
hugo - mind, intellect
oscar - god spear, deer lover, champion warrior
dante - enduring
enzo - estate ruler
mateo - gift of god
wyatt - brave in war
seth - appointed, placed
jay - jaybird
carlos - freeman
logan - small hollow
ace - one, unity
henry - estate ruler
eric/erik - eternal ruler
timothy - honoring god
kent - edge
frederick - peaceful ruler
nicholas - people of victory
anthony - priceless one
asher - fortunate, blessed
dimitri - follower of demeter
sean/shawn - god is gracious
gabriel/gabe - god is my strength
timothy - honoring god
colin - pup
jameson - son of james
conrad - brave counsel
alexander/xander - defending men
harvey - battle worthy
oliver - olive tree
lance - servant
rupert - bright fame
johnathan - gift of jehovah
robert - bright fame
dustin brave warrior, thor’s stone
alberto - noble, bright
nolan - champion
marcus - warlike
elias - yahweh is god
fernald - from the fern slope
klaus - people of victory
jaques - supplanter
bertrand - magnificent crow
atticus - from attica
cole - swarthy, coal black
darian - kingly or possess well
andrew - strong and manly
joshua - the lord is my salvation
joss - the merry one
albert - noble, bright
felix - happy, fortunate
andre - man
maxwell - great stream
maximillian - greatest
willard - resolutely brave
raphael - god has healed
marius - god of war
scott - from scotland
kane - warrior
homer - security, pledge
caleb - devotion to god
alfred/alfie - wise counselor
randy - shield wolf
conner/connor - lover of hounds
unisex:
ashley - lives in the ash tree grove/meadow of ash tree’s
Rank Male name Female name 1 Liam Emma 2 Noah Olivia 3 William Ava 4 James Isabella 5 Oliver Sophia 6 Benjamin Charlotte 7 Elijah Mia 8 Lucas Amelia 9 Mason Harper 10 Logan Evelyn 11 Alexander Abigail 12 Ethan Emily 13 Jacob Elizabeth 14 Michael Mila 15 Daniel Ella 16 Henry Avery 17 Jackson Sofia 18 Sebastian Camila 19 Aiden Aria 20 Matthew Scarlett 21 Samuel Victoria 22 David Madison 23 Joseph Luna 24 Carter Grace 25 Owen Chloe 26 Wyatt Penelope 27 John Layla 28 Jack Riley 29 Luke Zoey 30 Jayden Nora 31 Dylan Lily 32 Grayson Eleanor 33 Levi Hannah 34 Isaac Lillian 35 Gabriel Addison 36 Julian Aubrey 37 Mateo Ellie 38 Anthony Stella 39 Jaxon Natalie 40 Lincoln Zoe 41 Joshua Leah 42 Christopher Hazel 43 Andrew Violet 44 Theodore Aurora 45 Caleb Savannah 46 Ryan Audrey 47 Asher Brooklyn 48 Nathan Bella 49 Thomas Claire 50 Leo Skylar 51 Isaiah Lucy 52 Charles Paisley 53 Josiah Everly 54 Hudson Anna 55 Christian Caroline 56 Hunter Nova 57 Connor Genesis 58 Eli Emilia 59 Ezra Kennedy 60 Aaron Samantha 61 Landon Maya 62 Adrian Willow 63 Jonathan Kinsley 64 Nolan Naomi 65 Jeremiah Aaliyah 66 Easton Elena 67 Elias Sarah 68 Colton Ariana 69 Cameron Allison 70 Carson Gabriella 71 Robert Alice 72 Angel Madelyn 73 Maverick Cora 74 Nicholas Ruby 75 Dominic Eva 76 Jaxson Serenity 77 Greyson Autumn 78 Adam Adeline 79 Ian Hailey 80 Austin Gianna 81 Santiago Valentina 82 Jordan Isla 83 Cooper Eliana 84 Brayden Quinn 85 Roman Nevaeh 86 Evan Ivy 87 Ezekiel Sadie 88 Xavier Piper 89 Jose Lydia 90 Jace Alexa 91 Jameson Josephine 92 Leonardo Emery 93 Bryson Julia 94 Axel Delilah 95 Everett Arianna 96 Parker Vivian 97 Kayden Kaylee 98 Miles Sophie 99 Sawyer Brielle 100 Jason Madeline 101 Declan Peyton 102 Weston Rylee 103 Micah Clara 104 Ayden Hadley 105 Wesley Melanie 106 Luca Mackenzie 107 Vincent Reagan 108 Damian Adalynn 109 Zachary Liliana 110 Silas Aubree 111 Gavin Jade 112 Chase Katherine 113 Kai Isabelle 114 Emmett Natalia 115 Harrison Raelynn 116 Nathaniel Maria 117 Kingston Athena 118 Cole Ximena 119 Tyler Arya 120 Bennett Leilani 121 Bentley Taylor 122 Ryker Faith 123 Tristan Rose 124 Brandon Kylie 125 Kevin Alexandra 126 Luis Mary 127 George Margaret 128 Ashton Lyla 129 Rowan Ashley 130 Braxton Amaya 131 Ryder Eliza 132 Gael Brianna 133 Ivan Bailey 134 Diego Andrea 135 Maxwell Khloe 136 Max Jasmine 137 Carlos Melody 138 Kaiden Iris 139 Juan Isabel 140 Maddox Norah 141 Justin Annabelle 142 Waylon Valeria 143 Calvin Emerson 144 Giovanni Adalyn 145 Jonah Ryleigh 146 Abel Eden 147 Jayce Emersyn 148 Jesus Anastasia 149 Amir Kayla 150 King Alyssa 151 Beau Juliana 152 Camden Charlie 153 Alex Esther 154 Jasper Ariel 155 Malachi Cecilia 156 Brody Valerie 157 Jude Alina 158 Blake Molly 159 Emmanuel Reese 160 Eric Aliyah 161 Brooks Lilly 162 Elliot Parker 163 Antonio Finley 164 Abraham Morgan 165 Timothy Sydney 166 Finn Jordyn 167 Rhett Eloise 168 Elliott Trinity 169 Edward Daisy 170 August Kimberly 171 Xander Lauren 172 Alan Genevieve 173 Dean Sara 174 Lorenzo Arabella 175 Bryce Harmony 176 Karter Elise 177 Victor Remi 178 Milo Teagan 179 Miguel Alexis 180 Hayden London 181 Graham Sloane 182 Grant Laila 183 Zion Lucia 184 Tucker Diana 185 Jesse Juliette 186 Zayden Sienna 187 Joel Elliana 188 Richard Londyn 189 Patrick Ayla 190 Emiliano Callie 191 Avery Gracie 192 Nicolas Josie 193 Brantley Amara 194 Dawson Jocelyn 195 Myles Daniela 196 Matteo Everleigh 197 River Mya 198 Steven Rachel 199 Thiago Summer 200 Zane Alana 201 Matias Brooke 202 Judah Alaina 203 Messiah Mckenzie 204 Jeremy Catherine 205 Preston Amy 206 Oscar Presley 207 Kaleb Journee 208 Alejandro Rosalie 209 Marcus Ember 210 Mark Brynlee 211 Peter Rowan 212 Maximus Joanna 213 Barrett Paige 214 Jax Rebecca 215 Andres Ana 216 Holden Sawyer 217 Legend Mariah 218 Charlie Nicole 219 Knox Brooklynn 220 Kaden Payton 221 Paxton Marley 222 Kyrie Fiona 223 Kyle Georgia 224 Griffin Lila 225 Josue Harley 226 Kenneth Adelyn 227 Beckett Alivia 228 Enzo Noelle 229 Adriel Gemma 230 Arthur Vanessa 231 Felix Journey 232 Bryan Makayla 233 Lukas Angelina 234 Paul Adaline 235 Brian Catalina 236 Colt Alayna 237 Caden Julianna 238 Leon Leila 239 Archer Lola 240 Omar Adriana 241 Israel June 242 Aidan Juliet 243 Theo Jayla 244 Javier River 245 Remington Tessa 246 Jaden Lia 247 Bradley Dakota 248 Emilio Delaney 249 Colin Selena 250 Riley Blakely 251 Cayden Ada 252 Phoenix Camille 253 Clayton Zara 254 Simon Malia 255 Ace Hope 256 Nash Samara 257 Derek Vera 258 Rafael Mckenna 259 Zander Briella 260 Brady Izabella 261 Jorge Hayden 262 Jake Raegan 263 Louis Michelle 264 Damien Angela 265 Karson Ruth 266 Walker Freya 267 Maximiliano Kamila 268 Amari Vivienne 269 Sean Aspen 270 Chance Olive 271 Walter Kendall 272 Martin Elaina 273 Finley Thea 274 Andre Kali 275 Tobias Destiny 276 Cash Amiyah 277 Corbin Evangeline 278 Arlo Cali 279 Iker Blake 280 Erick Elsie 281 Emerson Juniper 282 Gunner Alexandria 283 Cody Myla 284 Stephen Ariella 285 Francisco Kate 286 Killian Mariana 287 Dallas Lilah 288 Reid Charlee 289 Manuel Daleyza 290 Lane Nyla 291 Atlas Jane 292 Rylan Maggie 293 Jensen Zuri 294 Ronan Aniyah 295 Beckham Lucille 296 Daxton Leia 297 Anderson Melissa 298 Kameron Adelaide 299 Raymond Amina 300 Orion Giselle 301 Cristian Lena 302 Tanner Camilla 303 Kyler Miriam 304 Jett Millie 305 Cohen Brynn 306 Ricardo Gabrielle 307 Spencer Sage 308 Gideon Annie 309 Ali Logan 310 Fernando Lilliana 311 Jaiden Haven 312 Titus Jessica 313 Travis Kaia 314 Bodhi Magnolia 315 Eduardo Amira 316 Dante Adelynn 317 Ellis Makenzie 318 Prince Stephanie 319 Kane Nina 320 Luka Phoebe 321 Kash Arielle 322 Hendrix Evie 323 Desmond Lyric 324 Donovan Alessandra 325 Mario Gabriela 326 Atticus Paislee 327 Cruz Raelyn 328 Garrett Madilyn 329 Hector Paris 330 Angelo Makenna 331 Jeffrey Kinley 332 Edwin Gracelyn 333 Cesar Talia 334 Zayn Maeve 335 Devin Rylie 336 Conor Kiara 337 Warren Evelynn 338 Odin Brinley 339 Jayceon Jacqueline 340 Romeo Laura 341 Julius Gracelynn 342 Jaylen Lexi 343 Hayes Ariah 344 Kayson Fatima 345 Muhammad Jennifer 346 Jaxton Kehlani 347 Joaquin Alani 348 Caiden Ariyah 349 Dakota Luciana 350 Major Allie 351 Keegan Heidi 352 Sergio Maci 353 Marshall Phoenix 354 Johnny Felicity 355 Kade Joy 356 Edgar Kenzie 357 Leonel Veronica 358 Ismael Margot 359 Marco Addilyn 360 Tyson Lana 361 Wade Cassidy 362 Collin Remington 363 Troy Saylor 364 Nasir Ryan 365 Conner Keira 366 Adonis Harlow 367 Jared Miranda 368 Rory Angel 369 Andy Amanda 370 Jase Daniella 371 Lennox Royalty 372 Shane Gwendolyn 373 Malik Ophelia 374 Ari Heaven 375 Reed Jordan 376 Seth Madeleine 377 Clark Esmeralda 378 Erik Kira 379 Lawson Miracle 380 Trevor Elle 381 Gage Amari 382 Nico Danielle 383 Malakai Daphne 384 Quinn Willa 385 Cade Haley 386 Johnathan Gia 387 Sullivan Kaitlyn 388 Solomon Oakley 389 Cyrus Kailani 390 Fabian Winter 391 Pedro Alicia 392 Frank Serena 393 Shawn Nadia 394 Malcolm Aviana 395 Khalil Demi 396 Nehemiah Jada 397 Dalton Braelynn 398 Mathias Dylan 399 Jay Ainsley 400 Ibrahim Alison 401 Peyton Camryn 402 Winston Avianna 403 Kason Bianca 404 Zayne Skyler 405 Noel Scarlet 406 Princeton Maddison 407 Matthias Nylah 408 Gregory Sarai 409 Sterling Regina 410 Dominick Dahlia 411 Elian Nayeli 412 Grady Raven 413 Russell Helen 414 Finnegan Adrianna 415 Ruben Averie 416 Gianni Skye 417 Porter Kelsey 418 Kendrick Tatum 419 Leland Kensley 420 Pablo Maliyah 421 Allen Erin 422 Hugo Viviana 423 Raiden Jenna 424 Kolton Anaya 425 Remy Carolina 426 Ezequiel Shelby 427 Damon Sabrina 428 Emanuel Mikayla 429 Zaiden Annalise 430 Otto Octavia 431 Bowen Lennon 432 Marcos Blair 433 Abram Carmen 434 Kasen Yaretzi 435 Franklin Kennedi 436 Royce Mabel 437 Jonas Zariah 438 Sage Kyla 439 Philip Christina 440 Esteban Selah 441 Drake Celeste 442 Kashton Eve 443 Roberto Mckinley 444 Harvey Milani 445 Alexis Frances 446 Kian Jimena 447 Jamison Kylee 448 Maximilian Leighton 449 Adan Katie 450 Milan Aitana 451 Phillip Kayleigh 452 Albert Sierra 453 Dax Kathryn 454 Mohamed Rosemary 455 Ronin Jolene 456 Kamden Alondra 457 Hank Elisa 458 Memphis Helena 459 Oakley Charleigh 460 Augustus Hallie 461 Drew Lainey 462 Moises Avah 463 Armani Jazlyn 464 Rhys Kamryn 465 Benson Mira 466 Jayson Cheyenne 467 Kyson Francesca 468 Braylen Antonella 469 Corey Wren 470 Gunnar Chelsea 471 Omari Amber 472 Alonzo Emory 473 Landen Lorelei 474 Armando Nia 475 Derrick Abby 476 Dexter April 477 Enrique Emelia 478 Bruce Carter 479 Nikolai Aylin 480 Francis Cataleya 481 Rocco Bethany 482 Kairo Marlee 483 Royal Carly 484 Zachariah Kaylani 485 Arjun Emely 486 Deacon Liana 487 Skyler Madelynn 488 Eden Cadence 489 Alijah Matilda 490 Rowen Sylvia 491 Pierce Myra 492 Uriel Fernanda 493 Ronald Oaklyn 494 Luciano Elianna 495 Tate Hattie 496 Frederick Dayana 497 Kieran Kendra 498 Lawrence Maisie 499 Moses Malaysia 500 Rodrigo Kara
2. Meaning of name "Liam" and "Emma"
Liam:
Liam's name is the name of a boy of Irish origin meaning "resolute protection".
Liam originated as the nickname of Uilliam, the Irish variant of William. William is an English name from German origin brought to Ireland when the British fled England after the conquest of Norman.
The Irish began to use English names, including William, which led to the development of Uilliam and its short form, Liam.
Liam is the top US boy's name for 2018, joining the elite group of names to top the list. Liam started out as a short form of William but has long stood on his own and for several years has become one of the most popular baby names for boys.
Now it is the fastest-growing Irish name in the United States, first entering the Top 10 in 2012 and before climbing to No. 1, holding No. 2 for four consecutive years.
Emma:
Initially, a short form of the German name beginning with the ermen element meaning "whole" or "universal". It was introduced to England by Emma of Normandy, who was the wife of King Ethelred II (and by him the mother of Edward the Confession) and later King Canute.
After the Norman conquest, this name became popular in England. It was revived in the 18th century, perhaps in part because of a poem by Henry Prior Henry and Emma (1709).
In the United States, it ranked third in 1880 (after Mary and Anna were omnipresent).
It declined steadily over the next century, beginning another rise in the 1980s and eventually becoming the most popular name for girls in 2008.
At this time it also experienced similar levels of popularity elsewhere, including the United Kingdom (where it began rising a decade earlier), Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Scandinavia, and the Netherlands.
More ideals for you: Top 500 Arabic Names
From : https://wikitopx.com/name-meanings/top-500-baby-name-meaning-711994.html
Daphne, Eloise, Anthony, Benedict (I'm only on s1).
Criminal Minds !!
Reid, Hotch, Morgan, Jennifer, Penelope, Emily.
I Am Not Okay With This !!
Sydney, Stanley, Dina.
Surviving Summer !!
Summer, Ari, Poppy, Bodhi, Marlon.
Gilmore Girls !!
Rory, Lorelai, Luke, Tristan, Paris, Dean (I'm only on s1).
requesting rules !!
what I'll write !!
fluff, angst, smut, hurt/comfort, headcanons, blurbs, fics, non binary reader, fem reader, male reader, plus size/curvy reader, poly, platonic, and family related !!
what I wont write !!
s*xual a*sault, ab*se, r*pe (cnc is allowed), scat, piss, fear play, or p*dophilia. other then that most kinks are welcome!
when you're requesting please: specify what pronouns for the reader and if the reader is afab or amab, what character(s) you want me to write, a concept (please give details!). if theres something you want me to write but you're not sure if I'm comfortable with it then just ask !!
also it takes me a while to write, so please keep that in mind !!
Danville Area Community College has released a list of its honor students for the Fall 2022 Semester.
A student must carry 12 or more credit hours and a straight A (4.0) average on a 4.0 scale to be included on the President’s List. To be included on the Honors List, a student must carry 12 or more credit hours and have a B+ (3.5) grade point average on a 4.0 scale.
Danville Area Community College Fall 2022 President’s & Honors Lists
Danville Area Community College PRESIDENT’S LIST – FALL 2022
The Voice Season 22 Episode 18 Release Date: Race To The Top 10
The release date for The Voice Season 22 Episode 18 has been announced, and the fans of this singing reality television show are on their toes to know more. Before we get into The Voice season 22 episode 18's release date and streaming information, here's what happened in the most recent episode. We saw veteran musician Omar Jose Cardona open the show with Bon Jovi's "Livin' on a Prayer."
With his upbeat performance, he established the mood for the evening, and Camila was astounded by how well he interacted with the audience. John, meanwhile, praised Omar's range, intensity, and soul while describing his voice as "out of this world." John continued, "I'm just fortunate to be your coach."
Kim Cruse performed Aretha Franklin's "I Never Loved a Man" next for Team Legend.
Her passionate rendition had John and even Blake on their toes as she displayed her tremendous voice. Blake claimed that, in a positive sense, her aggressive technique felt like an assault on him. John continued by saying that Kim had chosen "clever" songs. Sasha Hurtado left Team Gwen to join Team Camila, and John stole her.
Also read: How To Watch The Crown Season 5 Episodes Online? Streaming Guide
What Happened In The Voice Season 22's Recent Episode?
The newest member of Team Legend performed "Tiny Dancer" by Elton John, finishing with an incredible run. Gwen acknowledged that she was pleased with her old colleague Sasha and was envious of her. John claimed to have observed Sasha's assurance.
The youngest member of Team Legend and record-breaking The Voice performer Parijita Bastola then gave a rendition of Lady's "I'll Never Love Again." The slow ballad demonstrated the control and passion of the 17-year-old. Camila could only yell in praise of her "wonderful" performance. John claimed that everyone was enchanted by her performance at the same time.
Harry Styles' "As It Was" was sung by Gwen's Kique, an 18-year-old vocalist, but he slowed down the song to give it an entirely different sound. While Gwen praised Kique's talent and star power, John said Kique exuded confidence and added his spin to the song.
The next contestant was Kevin Hawkins, whom Gwen had taken from her husband's squad during the knockout rounds. He sang the Silk Symphony song "Skate," a '70s feel. Blake referred to Kevin as "the one that got away" and expressed his enjoyment of his comedic side. Then, Kevin "blossomed" on stage, according to Gwen.
Alyssa Witrado then attempted a coach's song once more after having success with "Don't Speak" in the blinds. Camila felt she could have shown more passion during her performance of Miley Cyrus' "Angels Like You" from her time as a coach. On the other hand, Gwen acknowledged the song's complexity and praised Alyssa for her impeccable pitch.
Former Team Blake member Kate Kalvach intended to "rock it" with Shania Twain's "You're Still the One." Despite some technical issues with her internal earpiece, Kate kept her attention on the task. The coaches praised her professionalism and said they couldn't tell she was having any difficulties. Kate's voice, according to Camila, is "beautiful and angelic."
The "17-year-old powerhouse" for Team Blake is Rowan Grace, who was taken from Team Gwen. She demonstrated her wide range with "Hopelessly Devoted to You" from Grease. Blake and Gwen both praised Rowan for her "strong" performance with her new squad, while Blake stated Rowan "threw herself to the front-running."
The next performer was Brayden Lape, who used Jordan Davis' "Buy Dirt." Due to his "effortless" talent, Camila claimed it was her favorite concert by Brayden. Blake said that the adolescent sounded "amazing" and forecasted that one day, with or without The Voice, he would be on the radio.
Bodie, an alternative pop singer, served as Team Blake's "one-in-a-million artist" for The Voice season 22, episode 16. He performed the slow ballad "Glimpse of Us" by Joji, displaying his emotional side. Gwen broke down in tears after hearing Bodie's performance since she didn't anticipate hearing anything similar from him. Blake, meanwhile, claimed Bodie astounded everyone.
When Is The Voice Season 22 Episode 18 Release Date?
The Voice Season 22 Episode 18 Release Date is Monday, November 21, 2022. The Voice S22 Episode 18 will air on NBC at 8 pm in the US; international fans can stream The Voice Season 22 Episode 18 at 1 am BST (November 22), 6:30 am IST (November 22), and noon AEDT (November 22).
Where To Watch The Voice Season 22 Episode 18 Online?
The Voice Season 22 Episode 18 will stream on Fubo TV and Peacock premium at the time listed above. Fans have to cross-check the times listed above to watch The Voice Season 22 Episode 18 when it comes out in their nations.
Also read: The Oval Season 4 Episode 4: Release Date, Preview & Where To Watch
Read the full article
Our girls rang in the New Year (after a QUIET and PRIVATE Christmas at home) while on the HCLI Young Ladies’ Winter Retreat!! This year’s location was a REMOTE cabin in Mt. Komorebi. They sledded, hiked, and fellowshipped, all while APPRECIATING the beauty of the Lord’s creation! As is tradition, they prayed that THIS is the year Simerica turns back to Christ. We ALL remain His FAITHFUL servants until the blessed day arrives!!
Imogen was able to share a room in the cabin with Delia, and from what they told me, they had SO MUCH FUN!! I’m so GLAD!! According to Ally, who shared the room next to them with her friend Lizetta, they stayed up very late every night, giggling and chatting- no doubt about Peter! 😂
It’s such a blessing to see my daughters grow up surrounded by a Godly Christian community. These milestones- budding romance, being newlyweds, first-time MOTHERHOOD (!!)- only happen ONCE, and I can’t imagine a better way for them to happen! Sadly, I was saved when I was 19, meaning I missed out on a proper Christian upbringing. To see my daughters get to have what I didn’t makes this Mama’s heart SING!