Chapter 2-Family Issues
Aegon walked the road toward White Harbor. It was a simple road so getting there while walking wasn't an issue. Even less when he used the Force to run at times to speed up his travels and move faster than a horse in full gallop. When he reached his destination, the people looked at him in surprise and a hint of fear given his form was wearing all black. His black mask didn't exactly win him any looks of admiration, but Aegon could care less about that since he wasn't seeking such things right now.
At first, people thought Aegon was a member of the Night's Watch given how his attire was all black from head to toe. The people initially suspected he was looking for potential recruits to join the Wall, but getting a better look told them this young man was not one of its members.
He was something else. Something dangerous. Someone you don't want to cross if you knew what was good of you.
"I need passage to Essos," said Aegon with his voice being muffled and distorted slightly due to his mask with the Harbor Master looking a tad intimidated.
"Yes well...uh...such passage is a long one. And expensive! I take it you can afford such a trip?" asked the Harbor Master in charge of such things.
"You will allow me passage for free," said Aegon while discreetly rotating his right hand below his hip.
"I will allow you passage for free," said the Harbor Master with his eyes glazing over.
"Preferably with a descent size cabin all to myself," said Aegon with the Harbor Master nodding.
"Preferably with a descent size cabin all to yourself," repeated the Harbor Master.
"You will not put me down in your records," said Aegon since he didn't want anyone to know anything about where he was going.
"I will not put you down in my records," repeated the Harbor Master.
"One last thing, you will not be able to recall anything about who I am, what I look like, or even this very conversation shortly after my departure on the ship," said Aegon with another wave of his hand.
"I will not be able to recall anything about who you are, what you look like, or even this very conversation shortly after your departure on the ship," repeated the Harbor Master.
"When you see me next, it will be to provide the name of the ship I will be on. After that, you will remember nothing," said Aegon with the Harbor Master nodding.
"When I see you next, it will be to provide the name of the ship you will be on. After that, I will remember nothing," repeated the Harbor Master.
Nodding in satisfaction, Aegon left to stay at an Inn for the night. A mere Force influence thought made Inn Keeper believe he paid for a room in advance for the night and was not to be disturbed. As such, it gave Aegon time to sort out his thoughts and how to proceed from here with his plans. He already knew getting an army to rally to his cause in taking the Iron Throne while here in Westeros was not possible. Not yet at any rate. Those loyal to the dragon were brought to heel by the Stag, backed by the Lion, the Falcon, the Fish, and the North.
Aegon knew he needed to gain an army that would make those Houses think twice about fighting him and give dragon loyalist the courage to call their banners to his cause. Right now, the Stag was on top, his current strength in ruling over the Seven Kingdoms with the lion backing him made any attempt at the moment to be impossible.
Aegon knew he had to wait for the right moment to strike after building up his own army in Essos. Fortunately, time would be his ally here. Time would be his weapon in which it chipped away at the Usurper's control. Time to reveal the truth and bring his enemies low before crushing them without mercy.
A truth he looked into through the Force about what really happened regarding Robert's Rebellion and the Usurper's plans for Aegon's family.
(Flashback-Five Months into Robert's Rebellion)
Aegon glared at the past version of Robert Baratheon in his prime, fully armored, as he was standing beside Jon Arryn in the Baratheon war tent. Oh how the Targaryen wanted to be there right now, run a Valerian steel sword through the man's armored torso before taking the man's head clean off. Alas, the price of seeing vision of the past through the Force was you couldn't do anything to alter them.
At the moment of this vision, the war was slowly, but surely shifting in Robert's favor against Rheagar Targaryen. His mind and skills as a battle commander had allowed him to win one victory after another. Plus his rage, drive, and claiming he was doing all of this for betrothed Lyanna Stark helped him win the hearts and minds of a large portion of the Seven Kingdoms.
Of course, the last part was carefully orchestrated by Jon Arryn himself. Right now, Ned had been sent out with a patrol to scout for potential threats that could ambush them right now. So the meeting between the Falcon and the Stag would not be known to the young wolf long after it ended.
"Our plan is working Jon. The fucking dragon's supporters are seeing the writing on the wall. In a few more moons, we will have the majority of the Seven Kingdoms backing us in our war against Rheagar," stated Robert happily with Jon nodding, but did not have the smile his foster son had on his face.
"Yes. The lie we have been telling about Lyanna being raped by Rheagar certainly helped in turning some House Targaryen's supporters. Everyone assumes the Prince also has the madness like his Father. Given how the Mad King would rape his own sister and Queen after seeing people burn alive only helped reinforce the possibility of it being true," said Jon Arryn while looking over the map in front of him in thought.
"Ha! Serves the dragon spawn right. Taking my future wife from me. All because he can play a fucking harp and sing like barb. I'm going to enjoy killing him when we meet for the final time," said Robert while clenching his hands into fists.
"Just remember Robert, you need to make everyone believe you are doing this for your 'love' for Lyanna. Not simply because you want a trophy wife in a woman who doesn't bow down to authority and is considered by many to be untamable. As far as your sworn brother, Ned Stark, and the rest of the Seven Kingdoms is concerned, you are doing this for noble reasons. No one can find out we did this based on a lie. No one can know that Lyanna refused to marry you and this rebellion is being done to spite the dragon. If we can remove them from the Iron Throne, you can legally claim it for yourself because of your own connection to their bloodline. We need to win this war and for you to become King of the Seven Kingdoms. Once we accomplish this, the power to rule is within our grasp and no one will have the strength to oppose us when it is all over," countered Jon so Robert understood he had to be careful at this point since the balance of power right now was shifting in their favor.
But that could change if they weren't careful.
"Don't worry Jon. The lie we told Ned has the man riled up in a fury. He'll cut down well over a thousand Targaryen loyalist to get his sister back. And as for Rheagar and Benjen Stark knowing the truth about Lyanna, one is the enemy so no one will believe him. The other won't say anything since Ned is too stubborn to hear it and you made it clear to the fool what would happen if he tried," said Robert with a laugh with Jon Arryn smirked.
"Tywin Lannister isn't the only one capable of doing unspeakable things to get his point across," said Jon Arryn with a sense of pride in his voice.
"Speaking of the Lion, will he join our cause? He has every reason to want the Mad King dead for his slights against him," commented Robert with Jon Arryn sighing.
"Unfortunately, Tywin Lannister won't do anything yet since victory is not in our favor at the moment. He will only back the winning side. Which means House Lannister won't join us so long as Rheagar is alive. When this war is over and the Targaryens are all dead, we will need the Lannisters and its gold to sustain your rule. You must consider the idea of marrying Tywin's daughter Cersei in order to obtain his full backing," said Jon Arryn with Robert not looking happy about the idea.
"Piss on that! I am going to marry Lyanna. If Tywin has a problem with that, he can tell it to my war hammer," said Robert with Jon Arryn scowling now.
"Think beyond the battlefield for once Robert. This war is expensive. We will be draining a large portion of the Crown's treasury once we take King's Landing to pay a lot of those Houses for their time and troops. Not to mention any damage done to the city once it has been finally taken. Tywin Lannister's gold will help us cushion the loss tremendously, but he will not give it or his support unless we give him something of equal return. Meaning you will have to marry his daughter when you become King to ensure he will not only supports us with gold, but with troops we need to prevent anyone from seeking to strike back while we are still recovering from the fighting. He will only provide us both of these things on the conditioning his daughter is made the new Queen. Which means you will have to marry her and deal with it," said Jon Arryn with Robert grumbling.
"Can't we just make Tywin the Hand of the King again? Surely that would be enough for him," replied Robert with Jon shaking his head.
"Not when a more suitable deal can be made Robert. Making his daughter Queen through marrying you is the only way he will throw in his support. Provided you can kill Rheagar when this is over," said Jon Arryn with Robert snarling and grunting.
"And what about the Dornish whore Elia Martell? And her children? They will be a threat to my rule. Especially the newly born son of hers. And there is also the issue of Viserys and his Mother being pregnant with a child. If she gives birth to another son, I will never be able to sit on the Iron Throne uncontested," said Robert with Jon Arryn sitting in his chair and drinking some wine.
"Once Rheagar is dead at the end of this, Tywin will provide us support in exchange for you marrying Cersei. That is the main goal at the moment we need to achieve. We will focus on that particular problem. Besides, I have no doubt Tywin has a plan to deal with the issue of Elia Martell and her children. In our last correspondence he informed me such an issue with them wouldn't be a problem once our side was going to win without question. All we need to do is kill Rheagar and Tywin will ensure everything else that we need to secure the Seven Kingdoms will fall into place for you to be King so long as his daughter is the new Queen," said Jon with Robert snorted angrily like a bull.
"And what about Lyanna? We both know she wasn't raped or killed. What happens with her? asked Robert with Jon looking up at him with a serious expression.
"For the greater good, when the time comes to rescue Lyanna Stark, our men will have to end the woman's life. We don't know if Rheagar has been with her and if he was, there is always the chance she is with child. In the end, we will play it off as the dragon loyalists killing Lyanna to spite you. This will allow Tywin's daughter to marry you and ensure the lion is on our side," said Jon Arryn with Robert now snarling since Lyanna dead did not sit well with him and it wouldn't sit well with Ned.
"I don't like it Jon. Can't I marry Cersei, but keep Lyanna on the side?" asked Robert with Jon shaking his head at the man's stubbornness.
"No! Besides, what would happen if you did get your way? With Lyanna on the side for you to fuck while you were married to Cersei? You think Tywin would tolerate it? Or the North? What happens when you impregnate Lyanna? Will you legitimize her children? Do you know what that will do Robert? It will cause instability. Possibly another war! Chaos! Like it or not, Lyanna Stark must not live past this war. Nor any child she brings into the world that is of Rheagar's blood," said Jon with Robert growled angrily.
"Fine! But you won't stop me if I wish to lay with other women when I'm King. I'll marry Twin Lannister's daughter and give him a few Grandchildren. But in the end, I can fuck as many women as I damn well want on the side. Even if it means my actions will result in siring bastards!" exclaimed Robert with Jon sighing.
"Fine. But you can't legitimize them. If you have any bastards from the women you take on the side, none of them can become part of the Royal Family. Ever!" replied Jon while making a mental note in his head to keep track of all the women Robert slept with and the bastards Robert would no doubt sire following the results of sleeping with these women.
"Fine! Not like I would anyway," answered Robert with Jon accepting this since it would keep Tywin Lannister of their backs for the most part.
(End Flashback)
Aegon sat up, his spine cracking from the sudden act and it made the young Targaryen Prince grimace at the slight, but sharp pain caused by action. He had yet to control the end of the Force visions surrounding the past. Still, the truth behind what occurred during Robert's Rebellion only fueled his rage and hatred for the Usurper, the Falcon, and the Lion for their actions against the dragon. They even managed to keep all of the North in the dark knowing the moment the truth was revealed, the Northern Lords along with Lord Stark would abandon the cause of fighting the Targaryens.
Such an action would not be forgotten nor forgiven. The North would one day be told and they would remember this event and seek justice. Justice that Aegon would gladly give to them through fire and blood.
(Winterfell-Sometime Later)
"No sign of Jon?" asked Ned with Ser Rodrik shaking his head.
"I'm sorry Lord Stark. I personally selected the men to find him. But no luck on our end. The fact we didn't find a body means he's alive, but just not anywhere noticeable in the North. Maybe he is on a ship somewhere or traveling further South. Do you want to ask the King for help?" replied Ser Rodrik with Ned shaking his head.
"No! Jon is my responsibility. I won't involve Robert or the Crown for one person. Tell the men when on patrols to look for Jon. If they find him regardless of his condition they are to bring him back to Winterfell," ordered Ned with Ser Rodrik nodding and left the solar.
"So long as there is no body, we can say he is not dead Lord Stark," remarked Maester Luwin with Ned agreeing.
"Aye, that is true. Still, I wish this had not happened in the first place," commented Ned Stark with Maester Luwin nodding.
"Have faith Lord Stark. Have faith and trust the boy will return to us in time. If he is half the Stark you believe him to be my Lord, then Jon will return to the North," said Maester Luwin before leaving the room.
"Forgive me Lyanna. Please forgive me," whispered Ned while closing his eyes tightly and trying to hold back his tears.
(Essos-Free City of Pentos)
The ship arrived in Pentos. The Force telling Aegon this is where he should go and stay for the time being. The place was vast with wealth that rivaled even Tywin Lannister and his gold mines. So Aegon got off the ship, ignoring the people staring at him and his form despite how it drew people's attention when he ironically was trying to avoid it to some degree. As long as he didn't give people his real name, no one would know he was Aegon Targaryen or a Targaryen in general.
"I am looking for Magister Illyrio Mopatis," said Aegon to the nearest merchant.
"What business do you have him?" asked the man, who felt intimidated by the sight of Aegon getting in his face with the mask giving nothing away.
"That is none of your concern. His home. Now!" commanded Aegon before the man gave the Prince his much needed instruction.
With his destination in hand, Aegon walked toward the Magister's home until he came across the large open house designed to let the air in the area to flow smoothly to prevent the heat from becoming unbearable. The design of homes here were different from those in the North back in Westeros. Though it didn't surprise Aegon in the least given what he had obtained about Essos from the men on the ship after reading their minds and taking the information from their heads while they slept. Many of the men on the ship he was on were all well experienced sailors and sold cargo from Westeros to Essos and Braavos for many years.
"Who are you?" demanded one of two guards after they blocked Aegon's path.
"I am here to see Magister Illyrio Mopatis," said Aegon with the guard snarling and spit on the ground at the Prince's feet.
"And why would the honorable Magister possibly care about some masked fool like yourself requesting to see him?" asked the guard with Aegon being silent for a moment.
Before using the Force to smash both guards into the wall behind them and knocked both guards unconscious. Mumbling idiots under his breath, Aegon walked over their bodies and entered the courtyard of the Magister. The said man, a rather portly fellow at that, came up to him looking flustered and slightly angry at having his time interrupted by this masked man.
"Who are you? How dare you come into my home uninvited!" exclaimed Illyrio Mopatis with the man getting right in Aegon's masked face.
"My name is Dooku. Dooku of House Tyranus. My apologize Magister. I tried to seeking an audience with you, but your guards outside were being quite disrespectful. I felt that a more...direct approach was required in order to get your attention," replied Aegon with Illyrio Mopatis huffing and puffing due to this portly state making it somewhat difficult to breathe properly in his fluster state.
"Well you have it for the moment Lord Dooku. Now why are you here in my home and uninvited?" demanded Illyrio Mopatis while never hearing of a House Tyranus before today.
"I heard from a reliable source you are seeking out the Targaryen royal family. I thought I would help you in that matter by offering my assistance as a bodyguard and protecting them from harm," said Aegon with Illyrio Mopatis looking surprised, but also cautious at the same time.
"And this reliable source being...?" asked Illyrio Mopatis since he knew of only one such person with an interest in the exiled Targaryens at this point who didn't want them dead in Westeros.
"Why Lord Varys of course. Who else would point me in your direction?" asked Aegon while plucking the Spider's name from the man's mind with ease.
"Of course. My apologize. There are many who seek the end the legacy of the dragons and one cannot be too careful these days," said Illyrio Mopatis with Aegon nodding.
"Naturally. Though the ones seeking to end the Targaryens will soon find it is not so easy and their vengeance will be swift when the time is right," said Aegon with Illyrio Mopatis nodding in agreement.
"Agreed. I have heard through one of my contacts that the Prince and Princess are here in Pentos. Though where in the city is unknown to me. My most trusted men are going out into the city to bring them here to my home where they can be safe from the uncivilized brutes in the streets of Pentos," said Illyrio Mopatis with Aegon nodding.
"And I shall be here to greet and help protect them from harm," said Aegon knowing the best way to do that would be to steal a small fraction of the fat man's wealth to buy a sword and other supplies.
He couldn't rely on the Force all the time. Strong willed minds were resistant to the Mind Trick and Aegon would rather not come across people without a backup plan in case he had to actually pay with money. Aegon also knew a sword of good quality was required these days and a man without one was a walking target.
The Prince didn't need one on him right now.
"Considering you bested two of my guards already without moving, I believe you will be a solid defense for both of them," said Illyrio Mopatis while motioning Aegon to follow him deeper into his home.
"What is the condition of the two Targaryens at the moment? Are they healthy?" asked Aegon curiously since he figured the Magister would know.
"As healthy as can be from what I last heard. Minor hunger issues. Food being scraps and in poor supply from what I heard. The Prince has been begging for help and selling what royal wears such as jewelry he can for large sums of coin in order to get food for himself and his sister. Sadly, not everyone gives him a good price on them. Either that or the coin is not spent wisely at time," replied Illyrio Mopatis with a sigh.
"Perhaps a proper tutor in the ways of wealth would help the Prince and Princess so they can handle such things for when they regain the Iron Throne," commented Aegon while Illyrio Mopatis nodded in agreement.
"I will mention it to the Prince since handling money and making key decisions on how it is spent is crucial to a King," replied Illyrio Mopatis while Aegon used the Force to help reinforce the idea and that the man thought about it to further make the man feel like he was important to the cause.
"Could I be shown my quarters? The trip here was taxing and I am in need of rest," said Aegon with Illyrio Mopatis nodding and clapped his hands before a servant came over.
"Show my friend here to one of the guest rooms immediately," said Illyrio Mopatis with the servant bowing and motioned for Aegon to follow.
He was in the front door. Now he had to play the waiting game and see how badly the situation with his Uncle and Aunt being on the run.
(Pentos-Nearby Tavern)
Jon Connington was drunk. And rightfully so given is self loathing at his failure to save Rheagar's family. Aegon was dead. Rhaenys was dead. Viserys and Daenerys were lost in the wind and presumed dead. Not that he cared about those two. Rheagar's blood was the strongest of the Targaryen line in ages and his family would have inherited that strength too. But the fucking lion and the stag had ruined any chance of them to grow up and truly show just how special they really were to the Seven Kingdoms.
Jon had been so close to getting them out of the Red Keep. He had just needed one day and it would have been successful. One single fucking day and the Spider's help. Was it so much to ask?
"Give me another one!" demanded Jon while the Rooster raised his glass to the bar tender currently cleaning a glass.
"You have had enough pal. Plus you haven't paid me for the other five drinks you drank down earlier," said the bar tender with Jon grumbling and looking for his pouch.
"I'll cover the drinks he's had. Don't give him anymore," said a voice behind him that threw a small pouch filled with the necessary coin to cover the cost.
"Fine by me, but you're carrying him out of here when we close," said the bar tender.
"Fair enough," said the figure before he moved and sat down across from Connington.
"Who the Seven Hells are you?" asked Jon while glaring at the two identical figures in front of him.
"A friend," said the figure with Jon laughed.
"Friend? I have no friends here. All my friends are dead or bent the knee to a damn Stag backed by a fucking Lion," commented Jon bitterly.
"Because what they did to the dragon. To Rheagar," said the figure with Jon narrow his eyes and slowly reach for his sword underneath the table.
"And who are you to say his name? Who are you to speak of him as if you had a right to it?" asked Jon while focusing his eyes to see one of the man instead of two.
"Why his son of course," said the figure with Jon's eyes widening before they went into a rage.
"Rheagar is dead. His line is dead. You are not his blood!" exclaimed Jon while the figure tilted his head.
"And yet here I am. Claiming to be his blood," countered the figure.
"Your name?" asked Jon curiously while the figure leaned forward.
"My name is Aegon. Aegon Stark Targaryen," whispered Aegon with Jon's eyes went wide at the implication.
"The she-wolf. The Tourney at Harrenhal," whispered Jon since it made perfect sense now.
"They married. They loved each other. I am their son," whispered Aegon with Jon now ready to cry at the implication of what this meant.
"Who else knows?" whispered Jon worriedly.
"Of those from that time who are alive? Ned Stark. Howland Reed. Myself. You. No one else, not even the Spider knows of my existence. As far as he knows, only Viserys and Daenerys are the only two Targaryens left," said Aegon with Jon frowning in regards to Ned Stark and Howland Reed.
"Ned Stark. The she-wolf's brother. It was said he killed the Sword of the Morning," said Jon with Aegon nodding.
"Lord Stark technically did, but the man had help. I won't go into details, but let's just say Ser Arthur Dayne unfortunately miscalculated at one point regarding a supposed kill and it cost him dearly," replied Aegon with Jon nodding.
"I won't ask further. Let the man keep his legend and legacy," replied Jon before leaning back in his chair and sighing.
"I need your help. I need the Rooster of old that fought for my Father. Are you still up for it?" asked Aegon with Jon looking at him.
"I want to see your face. If you are his son, I will see his features. If you are the son of my Prince, I will gladly bend the knee," said Jon with Aegon nodding.
"Not here Jon. Too many faces. Too many eyes and ears. And let's not forget the Spider's little birds," replied Aegon with Jon nodding in agreement since the Spider would tell the fucking Usurper if a Targaryen aside from the other two were alive.
"My room at the Inn. is nearby. Take me there and show me your face. Show me that a piece of Rheagar still lives," said Jon with Aegon nodding.
"Let's go. We have much to talk about my friend," replied Aegon before he helped Jon to his feet and to his room at the nearby Inn.
(Short Time Later)
Aegon slowly removed his mask before turning to face a cautious, yet optimistic Jon Connington staring at him with intense eyes. Walking slowly to the younger man, the man known to some as Griff or Rooster for being the Lord of Griffin's Roost stared at Aegon to see the blood relation to his beloved Rheagar. Looking for the features that were on Rheagar when last they saw each other and could say were on this younger man.
And he saw it. The cheek bones. The nose. The shimmering purple that gleamed just right when light from a candle shined at just the correct moment. It was all Rheagar's features. All
There were a lot of Lyanna Stark's features on the boy's face. Without question, the Stark features were strong. It made sense why Rheagar had chosen her, given the woman's own incredible spirit. Only a strong woman like the she-wolf's could have attracted the eyes of the dragon and win his heart.
Especially Rheagar's heart.
"My Prince. Rheagar. I see him. I see him in you," whispered Jon with tears now running down his face.
Except they weren't tears of sadness. But tears of joy! Hi Prince lived on! Lived on in his son!
"I'm glad you think so Lord Connington. I don't want to look too much like my Mother and be considered too pretty to be a man," japed Aegon with a smirk on his face.
With the realization of who was standing before him, Jon quickly drew his sword, got to his knees, and bowed his head.
"I, Jon Connington, Lord of Griffin's Roost, hereby pledge my sword and loyalty to the one true King Aegon Stark Targaryen. To be his sword, his shield, and to provide counsel in times of need. I will serve no other not of your bloodline and follow you to the end of my days and to whatever end," said Jon with Aegon commanding him to rise.
"I'm glad I have your support Jon. I will need it in the wars to come," said Aegon with Jon looking eager to fight, yet concerned since the last time dragons fought in a war, it had cost them dearly.
"Wars your Grace?" asked Jon with Aegon picking up his helmet and sat down with the object now in his lap.
"I'm going to retake Iron Throne. I need an army. I need skilled men. Reliable and loyal men. I'm going to fight for what was taken from me by the Usurper. From the Lion. From the Falcon. From the fucking Fish. All of them who conspired to take what did not belong to them," replied Aegon with his voice becoming angry and Jon looking more interested by the second.
"Your Grace, you sound like the Usurper's Rebellion was more a conspiracy to remove the dragon from power," remarked Jon with Aegon looking him right in the eyes.
"Because they did Jon. Each everyone of them! The Falcon. The Stag. The Fish. And eventually Lion," replied Aegon while recalling the memories of the past the Force had shown him.
"What about your Uncle? Ned Stark?" asked Jon since he knew they had a hand in it too.
"My Uncle was used Jon. A puppet. Hell, he might as well have been an attack dog out in front leading the other attack dogs from the North. All the Falcon and Stag had to do was point, command, and watch as my Uncle would obey," said Aegon with Jon frowning since he felt Ned Stark was just as responsible considering the North called their banners for the Stag.
"I still find it hard to believe such a conspiracy existed. How did they pull it off so well?" asked Jon with Aegon running his hands over his helmet.
"Through years of careful planning Jon. Planning and preparation. Lord Arryn started the conspiracy. He was jealous of the dragon. He couldn't stand being in its shadow. To him, the Falcon is master and ruler of the skies. It has no equal. Supreme authority over all that it surveyed from high above. Or at least he could claim such things if not for the mighty dragons and the very House that best represented them. I'm sure you know or heard about the history regarding the Arryn bloodline and how Lord Arryn's ancestor fought to keep his right to rule the Vale. I think Lord Arryn finally wanted to settle things from the time of old and get revenge on House Targaryen," said Aegon and saw Jon Connington was confused.
"What revenge though? House Arryn only bent the knee to the Targaryens because they knew sooner or later, the dragon would win," commented Lord Connington.
"Which is why they did it. This is revenge for bending the knee that day. It didn't matter how long ago it was for Lord Arryn. The fact remained, the Falcon was dethroned from its right to rule the skies by the dragons. I imagine that resentment festered for a long time between the Lord of the Vale and the future Heir with each new generation. They had to wait until the dragon was too weak to win a war of rebellion. They needed to rally the other Houses to their cause so when they did, the dragon would lose," replied Aegon with Lord Connington scowling and looking angry at not seeing it sooner.
"Fucking Falcons. But how did they get the Fish involved. Surely Holster Tully wouldn't agreed so eagerly over the issue," said Jon with Aegon sighing.
"Holster was ambitious. He had made House Tully strong. Had kept it strong since the time of his Father and his Father before him. Lord Arryn offered him a chance to make his House even more powerful with the fall of the dragon. But in order to do that, the two would need to bind each other's Houses together in a solid alliance. And there is only one real way to ensure that," replied Aegon with Jon nodding.
"Through marriages. Arranged marriages," answered Jon with Aegon nodding back.
"So they conspired together. It was simple in the planning stages and, in theory, or their version of a perfect world, it would have worked flawlessly. Holster Tully would setup an arranged marriage between his daughter Catelyn Tully with future Warden of the North Brandon Stark. Meanwhile, Lysa Tully would eventually marry Jon Arryn to give him an Heir to the Arryn line. All the while, Jon Arryn himself at the end of the war when it was won, would become the new Hand of the King while Robert sat on the Iron Throne. And why the Usurper would be King, the Hand would acting in his name and secretly be the true power behind the Crown. Lord Arryn knew how the Usurper's mindset would work in the end due to the fostering and would know to control Robert and his actions. Or at least control Robert most of the time while he was out drinking, hunting, and whoring the Crown into ruin," said Aegon with Jon nodding since marriages between major House created alliances of tremendous power.
"You said in theory it would work. What went wrong?" asked Jon though he had an idea of what happened.
"My Mother. She wouldn't go along with the arranged marriage her Father setup with House Baratheon to marry Robert. She was against it from the start. My Mother wanted to be her own woman. Someone true to the ways of the North. But her Father saw a rare chance at the time to strengthen his own House with the Fish, the Falcon, and the Stag together," said Aegon with Jon nodding since he recalled Rheagar sounding infatuated with the woman after they first met.
"The King's madness didn't hurt their cause either," commented Jon with Aegon nodding in agreement.
"When the Tourney at Harrenhal happened, it set things in motion for Lord Arryn to do what he was waiting nearly a lifetime to occur. My Grandfather's madness being the very foundation from which Jon Arryn could rally the people to his side. Rheagar's suppose kidnapping of my Mother and raping her while she was betrothed to Robert Baratheon made people believe the Prince was no better then the King. My Mother has sent letters to the North to explain how she wasn't a prisoner or raped by Rheagar. But those letters were intercepted somewhere along the way and thus began the chaos that followed," said Aegon knowing Jon knew what he was referring to regarding the Lord of House Stark and his Heir died on orders of the Mad King.
"And the Lion? Was he in on this from the start?" asked Jon curiously.
"No. His contribution to this came later near the end, but Jon Arryn did correspond with him about siding with Robert when the time was right. Tywin Lannister agreed to assist Robert in the end by taking King's Landing for him on the condition Prince Rheagar was killed in battle," said Aegon with Jon clenching his hands tightly before he thought of something.
"During the sacking, Gregor Clegane and Armory Lorch butchered Elia Martell and her children. Did he order it?" asked Jon with Aegon looking him in the eyes.
"Lord Tywin basically implied to Jon in a message that such things would be handled in the city when he arrived with his army. After all, Robert couldn't be crowned King so long as Elia's recently born son was alive to contest him for the Iron Throne. The only way to remove any real challenge was to remove everyone who could possess a threat to the Usurper," answered Aegon with Jon growling at the idea of Tywin doing something so fiendish.
"And in exchange, the Lion gets his daughter on the Iron Throne as Queen by marrying the Stag after becoming King," remarked Jon bitterly since he knew why Tywin helped Robert in the end with Rheagar dead.
"Correct. He couldn't do that with Rheagar. Had my Father won the war, Tywin would have most likely been made Hand of the King again with his son, Jamie, being removed from the Kingsguard in order to be his Heir to Casterly Rock. Of course, Tywin was not going to side with Robert or Rheagar until he knew which side would win. Though I do suspect the old lion was hoping the dragon would fall, if only to secure his legacy on the Iron Throne when the opportunity arose," said Aegon with Jon clenching his fists once more before looking at his Prince and future King curiously.
"Forgive me for asking this your Grace, but...how do you know all of this? You were not even born when this conspiracy happened and were just a babe when the Rebellion came to an end," questioned Jon while trying to not be disrespectful to his King.
"Let's just say...I have obtained a power from a higher source in all things, which in turn gives me the ability to see moments in time from the past," said Aegon while deciding to keep the knowledge of seeing the possible future from Jon.
The fewer who knew this secret, the better.
"But what about your legitimacy as Rheagar's son and remaining heir? Surely the records are someplace safe so no one can dispute your claim to the Iron Throne when the time comes?" asked Jon with Aegon nodding since he knew his power wasn't enough nor his word on the issue.
"It is in the Citadel. Under piles of paperwork in the records kept by the Maesters there," said Aegon with Jon growling again.
"Those fucking rats in their grey robes and chains. They would sooner burn down the Citadel over giving you the necessary documentation. You would have better luck in getting what you need by attacking the place with a well disciplined army," said Jon with Aegon nodding.
"True. But for now, let it stay there. Ironically enough, the Maesters at the Citadel do not know it exists. Nor do I want them to know it exists. We can't risk them destroying it or informing our enemies of the documents and my own existence. When the time is right, we take all the proof we need and ensure it is used to prevent anyone from contesting my claim for the Iron Throne," replied Aegon while knowing if he tipped his hand now, things would end rather badly.
"What do you have planned your Grace?" asked Jon while wanting to get to the heart of the matter with his King.
"From here on out, we plan for war. A war to claim it is mine. A war to take back what was robbed of my House and to bring justice down on the Houses who wronged it. One way or another Jon, I will have justice for my Father's House and family," replied Aegon coldly, but with a burning fire in his eyes.
"Fire and blood," commented Jon with Aegon nodding.
"Fire and blood. Now, I have a plan. One that involves playing the role needed to ensure we get what we need to get what is necessary to advance on Westeros. First, we need to get coin and lots of it. Fortunately, Essos is in no short supply of those with more wealth then they know what to do with. One such person I have been in contact with believes I am a Targaryen loyalist and I wish to protect Uncle Viserys and Aunt Daenerys from our family's enemies," said Aegon with Jon looking shocked.
"Viserys and Daenerys are here in Pentos?!" asked Jon in shock.
"They are here, but constantly on the move. And Pentos, as you already know, is a big place to look for two people. The Magister Illyrio Mopatis is an agent of the Spider and believes I am one too. However, to further sell the concept, I need you to join me there to further enforce it. Magister Illyrio Mopatis will no doubt alert Lord Varys of your arrival and see whether or not he should support you being there. Being loyal to my Father, as you were, I have no doubt the Master of Whispers will support you being here. The fact I found and introduced you will only cement our connection to the man. Or rather, his vast wealth which we can exploit much later when time permits," replied Aegon with Jon now understanding.
"Is the Spider our enemy your Grace?" asked Jon curiously.
"No. He can help us when the time is right. The man's loyalty is more to the realm over that of Kings and Queens. And rightfully so since his position has to be objective for the good of the realm, not just the rulers who control it. Kings and Queens have been known to become corrupt and unfit to rule. My Grandfather being an example with the madness that plagued his mind. So long as the King and Queen ruling the Seven Kingdoms are fair and just in their actions, the Spider will not betray them. Besides, I think deep down in his heart, Varys prefers dragon on the Iron Throne over the Stag and a manipulative Lion with cruel tendencies," said Aegon with Jon nodding.
"What do we do about Prince Viserys and Princess Daenerys? Your Uncle will no doubt try to make a claim to the Iron Throne," commented Jon with Aegon nodding.
"Viserys will try given his proclaimed right as the youngest son of my Grandfather still alive. He might even use Daenerys as currency if necessary. Though considering how he sold much of what he could carry of our family's wealth, it wouldn't surprise me. I have heard rumors already of him showing signs of the madness like Grandfather," said Aegon while wondering how he will deal with his Uncle Viserys without becoming a kin slayer.
"Which means the Princess will be endanger of his random violent action, if she's not already. In order to remove him without becoming a kin slayer, you will have to openly support Viserys as the next King until the time is right for you to reveal yourself to the world as a Targaryen yourself," commented Jon with Aegon nodding.
"Considering I will be a masked supporter of House Targaryen and you are an open one with your reputation alone, it won't be difficult to play things out as we want," replied Aegon knowing they would allow Viserys to think they were backing him as the future King of the Seven Kingdoms.
Instead, they were going to make sure the man had a big target on his back so it would not be placed on Aegon. At the same time, they would also ensure nothing happened to Daenerys and help the girl grow strong in her own right.
"Once we have the coin, I take it we are going to acquire an army?" asked Jon since he knew Astapor had the Unsullied and there were Sell Sword companies all throughout Essos eager to make money.
"Yes. Though we will also need more then just an army from Essos on our side. We will need something no one else has under their command. Something no one else can claim once it becomes mine," said Aegon with Jon looking curious.
"And what is that your Grace?" asked Jon with Aegon smirking at him.
"Dragons. I intend to bring back dragons," answered Aegon with Jon looking shocked since he didn't think bringing them back was possible.
"But the last dragon died was said to have died roughly 100 years ago your Grace. Barely the size of a house cat. It was said you could hold it literally in one hand," countered Jon with Aegon's smirk now growing.
"There is a way. I can feel it. I just need to obtain some dragon eggs and wait until the time is right. We have a several years before our plans can come to fruition Jon. Time is on our side for the moment. I intend to make use of her," said Aegon with Jon nodding since he had no reason to doubt his King.
Nor would he ever consider it.
(Magister's Home-A Few Days Later)
Few things could surprise Magister Illyrio Mopatis these days. Being a man who likes to be in control of things in Pentos was part of his occupation. It helped bring him wealth, power, and friends in high places in different parts of Essos to call on when required. But to see Jon Connington himself walking into his home beside Dooku not that long ago 0was something that made his day.
Illyrio Mopatis knew who Jon Connington was simply by reputation and was a Targaryen supporter through and through with a level of loyalty few could hope to match these days. Varys had kept him up to date on the various people throughout Essos who were loyal to House Targaryen and fought in Robert's Rebellion. Rather than bend the knee and pledge to serve the Usurper Stag, those said men had chosen to simply leave Westeros for Essos and Braavos. Some of them had not been fortunate enough to escape and thus had to go to the Wall or face the executioner's block.
Some had chosen the executioners block. They had preferred to follow their true Prince in death over living under the rule of the Usurper King.
But when Dooku had shown up with Jon Connington, it was a surprise all the same. Even more so when Dooku explained how he and Jon were going to hunt for the two Targaryen royal family members in Pentos. While they were confident in the Magister in sending competent men, there was always a chance one or two would have ill or greedy thoughts should they believe selling the two to someone else was a possibility.
Sending hired help who believed in the cause was better then sending those with greed in their hearts and minds waiting to come out.
So the Magister let them do what they wanted in searching for the Targaryens. He knew the two men were loyal to the cause and it didn't put a dent in his already extremely fat purse.
And true to form, these two men didn't disappoint him in their mission, as they had come back with both royal family members on either side of them. Viserys being smug and was walking into the large home like he owned it. Daenerys was much more cautious due to how they had lived since arriving in Essos shortly after being forced to leave the house in Braavos.
Daenerys herself had liked the house in Braavos when growing up there with the red door and lemon tree. Everything was fine at first, but then things changed when Viserys had become more demanding. Insulting even. The servants all clearly wanted to lash out at the Targaryen Prince, but held back due to the loyal knight Ser Willem. When the knight had died of illness, the servants had immediately ransacked the house within hours of when their sworn knight had died. They saw the opportunity to take what they wanted without him there to stop them. Viserys had long since gotten on their nerves during their time in Braavos and saw no reason to be loyal to the bullying Prince.
Clearly they did not fear "waking the dragon" as Viserys had warned her several times when she spoke up in what he felt was a challenge against him.
When they had to flee, Viserys tried to take care of them both. Key word being "tried", but in the end, he always let his insulting and rude manners get the best of him. Every place and every person they went to for help and shelter would take them in, promising support when called upon to help Viserys take back the Iron Throne. But her brother had no patience for future support and demanded it now, saying he was a King and would not stand for delayed help from "mongrels" and "savages" who didn't understand what was at stake.
It wasn't long before they had to leave each place with what they could take or carry to survive with the results repeating themselves time after time. Daenerys had tried to get her brother to apologize to their hosts each time he did something insulting to them, but Viserys would not hear of it.
"Why should the dragon apologize to lower forms of life? Those beneath him in both that of blood and status? Why should the dragon apologize to mongrels and savages? No! I will not! I will take back the Iron Throne, return here to this place, and burn it all down Dany! Fire and blood! You hear me sister?! Fire and blood!"
Daenerys wanted to tell him that he couldn't do it without an army. A loyal army. Much less without support and funds from powerful Houses and allies. Ser Willem had been the one to instruct her as much when Viserys refused to learn from him at time.
"I am a dragon. I don't need to know these things. All I have to do is say my name and all will come to support me throughout the Seven Kingdoms or die just like the Usurper will when I challenge him in battle!"
When the two men found them, Viserys was cautious at first, but soon recognized one of them as Jon Connington. He didn't really care for the masked man in black. Daenerys was cautious of both since she knew neither of them and while Viserys was willing to trust the one man without question, she preferred to not embrace this new development too soon.
Even more so when the Magister came to greet them both. Viserys more then Daenerys given how her brother intended to be King and reward his "loyal" supporters when the crown was on his head. Daenerys was not so sure, but her opinion and beliefs had long since been kept to herself out of risk of being slapped or beaten by her brother.
"Welcome! Welcome Prince and future King Viserys of House Targaryen and his lovely sister Princess Daenerys Targaryen. Welcome to my home. Come! I shall have several of my servants attend to your every need. Clean clothes, a warm bath, and plenty of food to fill your bellies," stated Magister Illyrio Mopatis happily while leading the two inside his home.
"The fool acts as if he rescued them personally," commented Jon angrily.
"Patience my friend. The Magister is a means to an end. Let him strut around like he did all work. His coin is all that matters. When the time comes, we simply cut him out, take his wealth, and move elsewhere to begin the next stage of the plan," said Aegon with Jon nodding.
"And Viserys?" asked Jon curiously.
"With the way he's acting and was acting after finding him? The fool will seal his own fate without us having to lift a finger," replied Aegon while seeing what could be the possible future of Viserys and it was going to be a short, yet painful one.
"A Crown for a King!"
Aegon thought it was appropriate considering Viserys went on and on to them on the way here about having a crown on his head befitting a King like himself.
The King of fools.
(King's Landing-Sometime Later)
Varys was a Master of Whispers. It was his trade earned from years of practice and doing things that would scar him to the end of his life. Did he regret it? Any of it? Some. Not all of it. But some. Still, information being relayed back and forth through his little birds was a necessity for the good of the realms and knowing what was happening so he could plan accordingly with those in power to benefit the realm as best as he could.
It had been difficult when the Mad King went mad. Seeing enemies in every shadow. The invisible whispers the man heard that no one else did. Varys tried to do what he could in keeping the madness from destroying the Targaryen dynasty. Being "loyal" and of course valuable in finding all of the King's supposed enemies had prevented the Spider himself from being burned alive. Oh Gods how he hated those moments. Remembering them all as if they were yesterday. The smell of the smoke. The harsh blaze of the fire set in the middle of the room that threatened to lick at his flesh from a distance. The silence of the people forced to watch as someone was burned alive. The screams of the victims being the only other sound echoing through the room. The inability to look away out of fear of someone seeing it and saying something to the King.
And the Mad King himself laughing with each life taken by fire. How he would rape his own sister and Queen following each moment with no one coming to the woman's aid. Not even the Kingsguard despite some wishing they could if not for their damn Oaths to protect only the King. Varys had felt the Oaths extended to the Queen too and that a King should be allowed such things to pass even if he was the King. But the Spider could do nothing to stop it. For all his skills, talents, and knowledge obtained in his lifetime, Varys was for the lack of a better word...powerless against the Mad King. All he could do was try and hold back a fraction of the chaos unleashed at the time while hoping Rheagar would take the Iron Throne when the time was right.
'And look how that turned out,' thought Varys bitterly due to Rheagar being the future of the Seven Kingdoms and Robert Baratheon ending it at the Trident, which resulted in the horror that followed with the sacking of King's Landing by Tywin Lannister.
Gods how he hated those memories. It was those kind of moments that made Varys curse his ability to recall practically every little thing he witnessed in his life.
And now things were no better. If anything, they were worse! The Stag wasn't mad like his predecessor, though Varys wondered if it was another kind of madness that plagued Robert these days. The man drank wine like it was going to be lost for all time. He went on hunts to pass the time over dealing with matters related to the Crown and leaving it all to his Hand and the Small Council. Not only that, but the man had not been faithful to his wife by laying with whores, tavern wenches, and any other woman who caught his fancy that wasn't his beautiful wife.
It had irked the old lion quite a bit when he found out about this from his daughter and the King shamefully taking the whores, multiple whores in fact, while in the Red Keep. The old lion's temper grew even shorter when Robert had sired one bastard after another with these women and thus could challenge the Queen's children for the right to rule if they wished.
Though Jon Arryn had assured Tywin Lannister that none of Robert's bastards now or those in the future would not be legitimized. The Falcon's assurance had kept the old lion from doing something infamous like the last time someone had scorned him, but Varys knew such things would only last so long as Jon Arryn was alive.
And the man was showing his age more and more as time went on.
'To think, the people were so happy when Robert became King. One who wouldn't burn them alive on a whim. Now they are worse off then ever! The city was slowly bleeding itself to death with the state Robert has been leaving it in since becoming King. My Small Council members not helping in the slightest. By the Gods, it feels like I am living in one big run down building infested with snakes, rats, and disease breeding insects,' thought Varys before a little bird came up and gave him a scroll.
Smiling at the child, he gave the girl a nice sum of gold dragons to spend how she saw fit before focusing on the scroll in hand.
A Rooster has joined the cause with his associate. Obtained the Targaryen children for us. Keeping them entertained with songs and stories of old. Prince shows signs of being like his Father. The Princess still pure in all things. Awaiting further instructions.
-A Friend from Pentos
Varys was well aware of the mysterious associate that his Magister friend had mentioned to him in a previous message. A strange young man named Dooku from House Tyranus. A House that Varys did not know. A man who wore all black and an intimidating mask you could not see through to determine what the man was thinking. The way his friend described Dooku made Varys believe he was a dangerous variable in the plan to put the dragon back on the Iron Throne.
A variable Varys could not hope to control from here in King's Landing.
Even more interesting was Illyrio had been under the impression Varys himself had sent him to assist with obtaining and protecting the Targaryens. Something Varys wanted to correct, yet stayed his hand since he was unsure if doing so would make things worse. This Dooku clearly knew that both the exiled Prince and Princess were in Pentos, on the run, starving, hiding, and struggling to survive. If Varys revealed the man was not his own, Dooku might find out, kill the fat Magister, and seek out the Targaryens for some horrible purpose.
So when he read the message of Jon Connington joining them and backing Dooku being there, it put the Spider's mind at ease. Jon Connington would never put the Prince and Princess in any danger or near anyone who would. Clearly Jon had met Dooku during his time in Essos and the latter believed in the cause to support the dragon. For the moment, Varys had to hope his friend could keep things under control with the Rooster protecting them from all threats, including this Dooku if he turned out to be someone not truly as loyal as he claimed.
Carefully burning the parchment against a nearby torch, Varys made his way to the Small Council room where he would report some "stirrings" in Essos about the Targaryens. Oh he would play it off as nothing. How they were begging for scraps. Clawing for life. The King wouldn't care. He would probably laugh when the news reached him. The mighty dragons crawling in the ground like worms. It would amuse Robert to the point until his anger would come into play and order some assassin be sent to kill the two out of some benevolent act of mercy on his part.
No Varys knew no one would believe it was out of mercy. If anything, the assassin or assassins would be paid extra to make sure the deaths of the Prince and Princess were slow and not clean. Varys shuddered at the thought. After what happened to Elia Martell and her children, the Spider knew Robert would reward anyone who could repeat such horrors on those two children.
He would simply play his part and warn his friend to possibly expect some unwelcome guests near his home. And hope Jon and this mysterious Dooku had the skills needed to repel such attacks until their plans could move forward.
(Pentos-Magister's Home)
Aegon was clearly not amused with Viserys or his behavior to those around him since he felt everything here was his to claim in the name of the dragon. He walked around the place acting like he owned it. He talked to the servants in a demeaning manner as if they were slaves or he owned them. And the fool was easy to manipulate, as he listened to the honey dripping words of the fat Magister telling him how people were sick of Baratheon rule. How they were holding secret meetings and toasts to his name. All awaiting the day when the dragon returned to claim the Iron Throne. How women were sewing dragon banners in secret and praying to the Old Gods and New for his safe return to remove the Usurper from power. How all the young women were ready to lay in his bed and give the Prince child after child to keep the Targaryen bloodline alive to protect his legacy after the Usurper nearly ended it.
And of course, the naive Prince drank it all up without even considering the Magister was lying through his teeth. Aegon knew for a fact none of these things were true. Far from it. While the people living in the Seven Kingdoms did not really care about Robert's slowly declining rule, they were willing to tolerate it over the alternative of fighting after dealing with his rebellion and the Greyjoys having theirs not that long ago.
Aegon's aunt Daenerys was far smarter then people gave her credit. She had seen the way people spoke to her brother. Knew the signs of lying and half truths. Of course, the poor girl couldn't call the Magister out on it. He was the host! They were the guests. If she did anything, it would jeopardize their stay here. Something Viserys would lash out at her for doing, even if he had done it numerous times with other hosts who took them in.
Sometimes, Aegon had to restrain himself when he heard Viserys speak horribly to his sister or threaten to hurt her if she spoke out of turn. Waking the dragon his masked face. The Viserys was no dragon. He wasn't even a snake as a snake had fangs. No. If Aegon were to put him in some kind of animal based group to classify Viserys, it would be that of the toothless worm. The only reason no one hurt the fool was because he was deemed too valuable because his bloodline gave him claim to the Iron Throne.
And having an actual King of Seven Kingdoms owing you favors in the future was what many would consider the ultimate investment.
Not that the Magister would be alive to enjoy those investments. He had made it clear to Jon that the fat man was going to die before they left. The fat man may have been the Spider's contact here in Essos, but the Magister was far from loyal, and if allowed to his own devices, he would cause more harm then good.
"The Dothraki? The horse riding savages I have heard about in passing?" asked Viserys with Magister Illyrio Mopatis walking beside him.
"While it is true they are savages, their reputation as being fierce warriors is known from here to the end of Essos and back to your home in the Seven Kingdoms. The Dothraki Hordes, as they are called, are commanded by a Khal. Each Horde can range from a few thousand to well over a hundred thousand people in size. Their skills on horseback are considered unmatched on the open field and they can even fire arrows while riding with deadly precision," said Magister Illyrio Mopatis with Viserys thinking it over in his head.
"And they can help me take back the Seven Kingdoms?" asked Viserys with the Magister acting like he was thinking it over.
"It is quite possible your Grace. As I said, they are fierce warriors. Of course, it will be a challenge to convince any Dothraki Khal and his Horde to cross the narrow sea. For all of their bravery in battle, the Dothraki fear any water their horses cannot drink or food they cannot eat," warned Illyrio Mopatis with Viserys scoffing.
"Then I have no need for such horse riding savages if sea water makes them all skittish in losing their beasts. I need an army Magister. A loyal, well disciplined army capable of winning me the Iron Throne," stated Viserys while Aegon simply rolled his eyes behind his mask.
One flaw in the Dothraki and the fool thinks they are useless. No army is perfect. It is why you have variety when putting an army together.
"They don't have to be used to take the Seven Kingdoms your Grace. They could be used elsewhere here in Essos under your command. To help consolidate your power and gather people to your cause through fighting in different regions of these lands. By building a powerful and strong reputation here in Essos, you can gather an efficient army through them to your cause before heading back to Westeros with the resources needed to win the Iron Throne back," replied Illyrio Mopatis while Viserys thinking it over.
"Using the filthy savages as fodder to win me victories and to gather others who actually can be useful to winning me the Iron Throne. Interesting. And what of the Dothraki? If they won't join me through the narrow sea?" asked Viserys with the Magister shrugging.
"Simply leave them here in Essos your Grace. Give them or their Khal something of great value in return for all of their troubles. This way, they will not feel scorned or slighted for you leaving for Westeros with your forces beside you," answered Illyrio Mopatis simply with Viserys thinking of what to give the savages for serving him.
Or rather...who?
Glancing at his sister near them, Viserys smirked in a way that made Daenerys feel a bit uneasy. And she wasn't the only one. Aegon knew instantly what was going on through his Uncle's mind.
He wanted to use Daenerys to secure a large Dothraki Horde. And the only way to do that was to arrange a marriage with the Khal of said Horde.
Jon bristled at the idea, but an quick hand gesture by Aegon made the Rooster stay his had and sword on the matter. Now was not the time to object or react since this was only two men thinking, talking, and planning. It had not happened yet so there was no reason to react as though it did.
"Who has the largest Dothraki Horde in Essos right now?" asked Viserys with Illyrio Mopatis smiling now.
"Why that would be Khal Drogo your Grace. It is said he has never lost a battle and his Horde has nearly 100,000 members in it. And it is growing I might add," offered Illyrio Mopatis with Viserys thinking over the idea more and more.
"Can you arrange a meeting with this Khal Drogo? Arrange for him to marry my sister in exchange for his army?" asked Viserys with Daenerys looking concerned now though she was doing her best to hide it.
"Of course. Though Khal Drogo may not accept your sister your Grace. Each Khal has different tastes and while your sister is a dragon like yourself, these savages will not be impressed so easily by such things like a bloodline or titles," warned Illyrio Mopatis with Viserys not really listening to the last part and brushing it off.
"When this savage sees my sister in all her spender, he will be pleased to have her for a wife and gift from his King," commented Viserys while looking pleased by the idea of such savages under his command to become a stepping stone in the much grander scheme of things.
"As you say your Grace," replied Illyrio Mopatis in agreement though deep down, even he wasn't sure if Daenerys will please someone like Khal Drogo.
With the two men and Daenerys walking, both Jon and Aegon stayed behind to talk about this new development.
"Selling the Princess to the Dothraki? The nerve! If he sells her to them, to their Khal, she will be in a Hell from which only death can free her. If this Khal Drogo doesn't rape her right away, the men in his Horde will if she isn't to his liking or standards. And to make things even worse, they may throw her to their horses and have them violate the Princess too for some sick and twisted amusement!" stated Jon furiously with Aegon nodding.
"Agreed. Fortunately, time is on our side. Khal Drogo's Horde is far away from Pentos at the moment. Meaning any messages delivered back and forth between here and the Horde will take time. Which we will use to our advantage," said Aegon with Jon nodding since he knew not to question how his King knew things.
The power Aegon had mentioned the first time they met had proven to not only find the two royal family members so he didn't question it. Jon also believed there was more to the power Aegon wielded, but felt it wasn't his place to question his King about it. For all Jon knew, this power could be magic born from the dragon's blood in the King's veins or some gift from the Gods to make the world right again. Whatever the case, Jon was going to trust his King and this power he wielded to do what is right.
"How long do we have?" asked Jon curiously.
"About four to five moons. Per message. Plenty of time. We will focus on Daenerys and educating her in secret. Let Viserys think he's the only one who matters. His pride will be his downfall," said Aegon with Jon nodding.
"When the time comes for marriages in the future your Grace, will you be marrying your Aunt?" asked Jon despite this being a far into the future thing.
"No. That practice with my House gives birth to madness. Daenerys can marry whoever she wants to marry, provided the person in question is a good man and will make her happy," said Aegon before walking forward and Jon right beside him.
"And you your Grace?" asked Jon with Aegon being silent for a moment.
"I will do what I must for my House and the good of the realms if an arranged marriage is required Jon," replied Aegon quietly with Jon nodding.
(A/N: YAY! Another update. Hope you like. Really starting to get into this one the more I write it. Feels like I'm empting my head when I work on this one. So I'm going to keep at it as much as my brain will allow. Until next time...PEACE!)