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Chapter 64
Not for the first time, Selene Baratheon found herself imprisoned.
The first time was in my girlhood, when I claimed the Iron Throne, she remembered. My father had just died, and Mother confined me to my rooms in the Red Keep. The second time had been at Riverrun, when she journeyed north to marry Robb. He soon became her jailer. For a time. Then I was thrown in a cage after the Red Wedding, and a captive during my time in King's Landing, when Tywin had me. She had been a slave of Yezzan zo Qaggaz in Slaver's Bay, Daenerys' prisoner in Meereen, Euron's prisoner on the Sunset Sea, and now Daenerys' prisoner once more, this time on Dragonstone.
Cersei Lannister, Robb Stark, Tywin Lannister, Yezzan the hero-buyer, Euron Greyjoy and Daenerys Targaryen. If there was ever a stranger group assembled, Selene had not heard of it.
She wondered how long she would be held this time.
It had only been four days, but Selene had at least expected Tyrion to visit her. He hadn't. No one had. An Unsullied guard delivered her meals three times a day, and it felt like so long since she had heard another human voice.
She would have loved to pass the time with swordplay, but in her first day of imprisonment, she realized that Stormsbane was lost to her, taken by the Ironborn when she was captured. That had been a terrible blow. She felt like she had lost her right hand. My father had that sword made for me. Its pommel was an onyx stag's head, its eyes golden. The sword had been with her for years, had travelled with her from King's Landing to the north and back again, had survived the Red Wedding and her time as a slave…Selene had fully expected to be buried with it.
The loss of her sword, her fear for Jon's life, and her isolation was starting to get under her skin.
She had plenty on her mind to worry her without concern for what was under her skin.
Selene's hand rested on her stomach.
I wonder if I'm already with child.
She didn't think so, not really, but the possibility was there. For the first time in years, Selene could be pregnant. With that possibility came dread. Whatever Daenerys chooses to do with Jon and I, what of our child? What will become of it?
Selene wasn't worried about gold. Her sister would be a princess of Dorne one day, her uncle the Lord of Casterly Rock. No matter what Daenerys decided, Selene knew they would help her if she needed them. Would I need help? Selene tried to picture a life free from court and war, free from the whims and wishes of lords and ladies. She pictured Jon as a village guard, herself as a bar maid somewhere warm like Dorne…that thought made her laugh aloud. Jon and I once dreamed of a simple life, perhaps we will get our wish. As children, the freedom a simple life offered seemed almost too good to be true, but now…we have both ruled kingdoms, led armies, worn crowns…can we ever truly be ordinary?
When night came, so did the nightmares. It was always the same, horrific scene.
Selene screamed, the blood vessels in her face popping with exertion.
Jon's voice was warm in her ear, his arms around her. Selene squeezed his hands with all her strength, "You can do it, Selene. You are so strong. The strongest person I've ever known. Push!"
She didn't have the strength to reply, or do anything else but wail. Selene screamed again, the taste of blood bursting on her tongue. She was burning up, but the sweat on her back was cold.
Something was wrong.
The midwives whispered to each other.
Terror seized her by the heart. She looked up at Jon, her hair slick with sweat and plastered to her skin. "Something's wrong with the babies," she sobbed.
Jon rejected the thought, "No, of course not. Everything's fine."
"If they have to choose-"
"Don't even think it, Selene."
She moaned in agony, turning to the women with clenched teeth, "I order you to save my children."
"Your Grace-"
"THAT'S AN ORDER!"
The midwives paled. The oldest turned and grabbed a sinister looking tool.
"What are you doing?" Jon cried frantically.
"The queen said-"
"I don't care what she said!" His anger and pain filled every word, "I am the king. You will save them all!"
"Jon, please," Selene said weakly, her fight nearing its end, "Promise me you'll choose them."
She had never seen him look so afraid, "Selene, don't make me-"
"Promise me, Jon."
His eyes welled with tears, "I promise."
Pain seized her once more, her world shrinking to the excruciating ache in her core.
"It's now or never!" one of the midwives warned.
Jon's arms tightened around her, "Alright, Selene. It's time to meet them. Break every bone in my hand if you need to. PUSH!"
Selene clutched his hands for dear life, threw her head back, and screamed, fire consuming her throat. She felt herself tear at the seams.
She collapsed in exertion, her breathing ragged.
A baby squealed.
It was the most miraculous sound she'd ever heard.
I'm a mother, she realized in absolute awe.
"You did it," Jon breathed, "You did it, my love."
She had only seconds to rest, before her second child decided it was time to join them.
After the agony of the first, the second followed with relative ease, Selene's body no longer a stranger to its purpose.
"Two sons!" The midwife cried joyously. "The queen has given the realm two princes."
Jon held her tight. "I'm so proud of you."
"My sons," she cried, the word strange on her tongue, "Give them to me."
The midwives complied, placing one in each arm.
Selene didn't know where to look. She was mesmerized by them both, her heart beating in time with theirs. They were so little and pink, their faces scrunched up and wrinkled. Her sons were identical in every way, except their hair.
One bore a tuft as black as coal, the other….a dark, metallic silver.
Jon leaned over, his arms around her, holding his family in his arms. "They're perfect."
Selene looked up at him, her eyes swimming in tears, "I love you."
"I love you, too. More and more every day."
Selene gave a breathy laugh.
The midwives shuffled out of the room.
Jon smiled down at his sons, "Shall we give them their names?"
Selene shook her head, "Look at them, Jon. The gods have named them for us."
Jon's smiled deepened, "Rhaegar and Robert."
The door burst open.
Unsullied guards marched in, leaping at Jon and pushing him to the floor
"Jon!"
Her sons wailed.
Daenerys strode in, her eyes empty. "Take them."
"No!" Jon struggled against the guards.
Selene drew back, her face murderous as she clutched her boys tight, "Take one more step and I swear I'll-"
One guard pushed her down by the shoulder, others ripped her sons from her arms. Selene was weak from the birth, and could only watch.
Selene wept, "No! Daenerys, please, give them back-"
Daenerys' face was as still as stone, "I need heirs," she said simply, and with that she left, the guards holding Selene's sons following close behind.
A dragon's roar ripped the room apart, flames bursting from every surface, consuming them all….
Selene screamed herself awake every morning. When she realized it was only a nightmare, she buried her face in the sheets and wept.
It always felt real. Selene's heart grieved as if she actually had sons, as if they had really been taken from her. Reason rebuked her for this, but she couldn't shake the feelings that grew from her nightmares. The love she felt for her sons, the terror she had for their safety, the hatred forming toward Daenerys.
She hasn't taken my sons from me, Selene had to forcefully remind herself when she felt her loathing flare. I have no children, and even if I did, Daenerys would never harm them. It was just a nightmare.
There were things she didn't understand about her dreams. Why the midwives called her queen, why Jon called himself king, why one son had silver hair, why she would ever name her child Rhaegar, why she kept seeing the same scene every night. It's just a nightmare. Born from fear, stress and uncertainty.
The Hand of the Queen came on the fifth day.
Relief swept through her, "Tyrion-" until she saw his face. This would not be the joyful reunion she had hoped for.
Her uncle went for the wine, like he always did. He poured two very full cups.
Tyrion took a seat at the table, gesturing for her to do the same.
His silence put her on edge. He slid the goblet toward her. "Drink."
"Tyrion, what's-"
"Drink."
Selene swallowed nervously, taking the goblet and bringing it to her lips. She hesitated, but eventually took a big gulp, the wine burning her throat. "You once told us you were sorry for the way things are." The corner of her lip twitched, "That our children would have been gorgeous."
"Don't throw that back in my face."
Selene frowned, "I don't mean to."
They sat in uncomfortable silence for a while.
"You've truly outdone yourself this time, Selene."
"I don't regret what I've done. Not for one moment, but…" she sighed. She hated seeing Tyrion so angry with her. "I am sorry for the pain I've caused. To you and Daenerys." She remembered her nightmares, "Does…has she decided what she's going to do with us?"
Tyrion grimaced, "You may want to finish your wine."
Selene paled, "She wouldn't kill him."
Her uncle sighed, "No, she wouldn't. Even if she wanted to. The north, the Vale, and the riverlands would never forgive her. And neither would you."
"Me?"
Tyrion narrowed his eyes, "Yes, you. The Lady of Storm's End. Beloved of the people, admired by the lords and ladies, and a fellow dragonrider with a claim to the throne. The Tyrells have advised Daenerys of your release, as has the Princess of Dorne."
"Arianne Martell?"
Tyrion smirked, "There's no love lost between you, to be sure, but Arianne is here on behalf of her father and uncle, the latter of who respects you."
That took Selene aback, "I don't want the throne. I've bent my knee."
"And can unbend just as easily."
"Is that what she thinks? Tyrion, I swear, I would never-"
"And if Daenerys killed Jon? Would you continue to serve her happily?"
If Daenerys killed Jon? Selene refused to consider it. "Daenerys is my friend. She would never-"
"She's not just your friend, Selene. She's your queen. She's my queen. And now I must advise my queen how best to break my niece."
Break me? Selene leaned forward, "Uncle, I've been having nightmares. Terrible nightmares."
Concern flickered behind the anger in his eyes. Tyrion tried to look uninterested, but Selene knew him better, "What kind of nightmares?" he asked after a moment.
"It's the same every night. After hours of agony, I give birth to twins. Boys. Alike in every way, except one has black hair, the other silver."
Tyrion leaned forward in his chair.
Selene felt the tears rise in her eyes, "I feel it, Uncle. When they're put in my arms, I feel...such love. Love I only felt once before when I-" When I was with child. Selene clenched her teeth, "Daenerys takes them from me, because she needs heirs." She held Tyrion's gaze, "Whatever Daenerys has planned, swear to me that those nightmares are unfounded. Tell me she won't ever-" her throat clenched.
The hard shell Tyrion presented cracked at her tears. He reached out and grabbed her hand. "Never. I swear to you, Selene. Daenerys would never do that to you. Even if she could, your children would be of no use to her."
A shiver ran down her back. "What-"
He stood, "I shouldn't have come. I just wanted to look you in the eye and…" he looked away, "I'm sorry it came to this, Selene. Truly, I am."
###
Selene walked into the throne room with her head held high.
Daenerys sat on her stone throne, a colossal formation of volcanic rock jutting from the earth. After her nightmares, the sight of Daenerys made the hairs rise on her arms, fear and anger made her clench her fists tight. She couldn't help but see the woman who took her sons away. I am going mad. I have no sons, and even so, Daenerys would never do that to me.
Tyrion and Aegon stood to each side of her.
Rage danced like wildfire in Aegon's eyes. Selene met his gaze and held it, remembering their last conversation. I told him I would be happy with my choice.
The Greyjoy siblings, the Tyrells, Arianne Martell and Myrcella were all there, as well as Jorah Mormont, Ser Barristan Selmy and Aegon's faux family. The entire court has come to see what will become of us.
The great doors opened, and Jon was ushered through by Unsullied guards.
Selene's eyes raked over him for injury, but he seemed fine. His beard was slightly overgrown, but he was unhurt. She gave him a small smile as he stood beside her.
They turned to the dragon queen together.
Daenerys watched them closely, her knuckles white where she gripped the arms of her throne. "Selene Baratheon, Jon Snow, you are here before us because you wed without royal permission. Do you deny it?"
"No," they both said instantly. They turned to each other in surprise. Jon took a step closer, taking her hand and interweaving his fingers with hers. His message was clear. We face this together.
Daenerys looked away. For an instant, Selene thought she saw the ghost of a smile on the queen's lips, but it was gone as quickly as it appeared.
"Do either of you have anything to say in your defense?"
Jon squeezed her hand, and said, "I bent my knee to you, Your Grace, because I believe you would do anything to save your people." He turned to Selene, "I love Selene Baratheon, and have since I was a boy." Jon Snow said for the entire court, and world, to hear. His gaze turned back to Daenerys, "I could not live without her, and I hope my love for her does not change your promise to help the north in their fight against the Night King."
Daenerys' face was unreadable. Her eyes flicked to Selene, waiting.
"Your Grace, cousin, when I bent my knee to you in Meereen, it was because I knew you are the ruler the Seven Kingdoms deserves. I swore you my sword, my help, in claiming my father's throne. I did not dream you would make me your heir, or the responsibility that would come with it."
Daenerys' face remained blank. Selene took a shaky breath, but Jon squeezed her hand, reminding her he was there with her. I'll always have Jon.
Selene lifted her chin, "I thought the man I love was dead, and when I realized he was alive…I had no other course. I love Jon Snow, and have since I was a girl. I swear, I will do everything in my power to help you claim the Iron Throne. I am still your sword, your advisor, your dragonrider, your kin, and your friend. That will never change."
Daenerys steepled her fingers, resting her chin, lost in deep thought. The court held its breath for her decision.
In the silence, all Selene could hear was the roar of her heartbeat in her ears.
Daenerys straightened, "Jon Snow, for marrying a member of the royal family without leave, I hereby revoke your title of Warden of the North and grant it to your sister, Sansa Stark. I will allow you to be her emissary, with her leave as Lady of Winterfell."
Selene released a breath. He will live. He will live. He will live. No longer Warden of the North, but he would live.
"Your crimes are not your people's. The north is still one of my kingdoms, and I will protect it. Not for your sake, but for those who need me."
Selene glanced at Tyrion. That must be his doing. What a perfect way to show the world how merciful Daenerys is. So devoted to her people that she would look past treason to protect them.
Jon could hardly believe his ears, "Thank you, Your Grace. On behalf of the north…thank you."
Daenerys nodded, her gaze turning to Selene.
"Selene of House Baratheon," Daenerys' voice was grave, and for a moment Selene felt like she was at her own wake, "For breaking an oath to your queen, I…" regret flashed in her eyes, but Daenerys lifted her chin and said her next words all the same, "I hereby attaint you."
Gasps flew about the hall.
Selene blinked, not certain she heard correctly. Did she say what I think she said?
Daenerys continued, ignoring the reactions from the court, and the paleness of Selene's face. "I strip you of all land and title, and of the right to pass them on to your heirs. You are now a commoner, and…no longer a Baratheon."
Selene felt the eyes of the room hot on her, but she hardly noticed. She's taken my name. She has spared my life, but legally killed me, and my children after me.
She's taken my name.
Daenerys continued, "As you have formed a bond with one of my children, I will allow you to continue serving me on dragonback in times of war and need. But you are no longer a princess, the Lady of Storm's End, or a Baratheon."
Selene was speechless.
"I hereby proclaim my nephew, Aegon Targaryen, Prince of Dragonstone and heir to the Iron Throne."
Tyrion cleared his throat, "Long live our merciful queen."
"LONG LIVE THE QUEEN!"
###
Storm's End rose from the gloom, a giant of pale grey stone.
Selene watched colossal, murderous waves crash against it from the northern cliffs. The castle withstood each wave, as it had for a thousand years. Despite the storms, her horse Thunder was calm. He is of the stormlands, same as me, she thought. We do not fear the storm.
She looked beyond the castle, to the harsh mountains, stony shores, and verdant forests that splayed out before her. Though she could not see them, she imagined the windswept plains and grasslands of the Dornish Marches and the Red Mountains beyond them.
Robert Baratheon reared his horse beside his daughter. "Beautiful, isn't it?"
"It's so…wild. And dangerous."
"That's what makes it so." He paused, glancing back as the royal party continued down the road toward the castle, while he and Selene stood watching over the land. "Sometimes I regret keeping you close rather than sending you here to be fostered."
That took Selene aback, "Eager to get rid of me, are you?"
Robert's laughter boomed, rivalling the distant thunder. "Of course not, Selene. Only…King's Landing is a steaming pile of shit."
Selene giggled, not yet accustomed to her father's vulgarity. At some point after she turned three and ten, her father began to swear around her, and it made her feel trusted and older than she was.
Robert breathed in deep, "The air is fresh here. The people honest-"
"-and as uncontrollable as the weather."
Robert smiled, "We'd surely fit in."
Selene laughed.
Her father grew serious, "We belong in the stormlands, Selene. Not King's Landing. No matter what crowns we wear or thrones we sit on, we are Baratheons. Gales have battered us and our lands for a thousand years, and we have withstood them all. Do you know why?"
The wind stirred her curls as Selene kept her eyes on her ancestral home, "Ours is the fury."
"Aye. We are the storm. No one can take that from us."
Lightning cracked the sky in half. Thunder boomed, making Selene's teeth rattle in her skull.
But her father did not flinch. And neither did she.
"Selene?"
"Hmm?" She turned, surprised to find Jon standing beside her. Even more so to discover she was walking along the cliffs of Dragonstone, the castle a good mile behind her. She frowned, "Where are we?"
"I hoped you would tell me. After we were dismissed, you sort of…left."
"Left?"
Jon nodded, "You started walking, and you didn't stop. I only called your name because you were getting a bit too close to the edge for my liking."
After a short silence, Jon asked, "What were you thinking about?"
The corners of her lip tugged, "I was remembering the last time I visited Storm's End with my father. Feels like a lifetime ago."
Jon looked away, "Selene, I am so sorr-"
"Don't." She cut him off firmly, "The last thing I want is you to blame yourself."
"I do blame myself," he took her hand in his, "I never wanted to diminish you, and now you're…"
Selene needed to hear it out loud. "Say it."
Jon shut his eyes for a moment, as if ignoring the new truth, "A commoner."
A commoner. "Just Selene."
Jon frowned, "How can she do that?"
Selene sighed, looking out to sea, "The old Targaryen kings would use acts of attainder to deprive nobles of their lands, and often their lives. Once attainted, their descendants could no longer inherit lands." She turned back to Jon, "It's essentially the legal death of a family."
The furrow in his brow deepened, "I've never heard of it."
"It hasn't happened for over a hundred years. It's only a step above murder." Selene grit her teeth, "It's a stain. A corruption of blood."
Jon hesitated, biting his lip. Instead of speaking, he simply wrapped his arms around her waist, and held her close. His presence was warm on her back. Selene leaned into him, and he placed his chin firmly on her shoulder.
Tears rose to her eyes, "In all my life, no matter what I'd lost, I always had my name. It's who I am, Jon. It's the name my father gave me." Now I only have the name Jaime gave me. "I feel like I'm losing him all over again."
Jon squeezed her tighter. "No matter what your name is Selene, you'll always be his daughter. No one, not even Daenerys, can change that. It's the blood that matters, not the name."
Selene smiled weakly.
Jon sighed, "I can't imagine what it feels like, Selene. I'd always dreamed someone would change my name."
Selene looked at her feet, "I'm sorry, Jon. I've led such a life of privilege, you must think me so selfish and-"
Jon turned her by her waist and kissed her deep, ending her sentence and halting her thoughts. When he pulled back, he said, "I think no such thing. I can't imagine what it's like to bear a father's name proudly my whole life, and have it taken from me. I'm only sorry that I'm the reason why it happened to you."
Selene couldn't help herself. She smiled, "Don't be sorry, Jon. Remember how we once dreamed of a simpler life?"
Jon nodded.
"Well, we have our wish. Once the army of the dead is defeated, once Daenerys sits her throne…we're free."
Jon smiled, "Free," he mumbled, tasting the word on his tongue as if for the first time.
"We could go to Dorne, if you'd like? We could live by the ocean, and never be cold again."
Jon smirked, "I can't imagine a life in which I'm not freezing some body part or another."
Selene laughed.
Jon smiled, "We could always live beyond the Wall."
That took Selene aback, "Like wildlings?"
"Free folk." Jon corrected her, "They're more like Westerosi than not. Men are men and women women, no matter which side of the Wall we were born on. Good men and bad, heroes and villains, men of honor, liars, cravens, brutes…there are plenty on both sides."
Selene had never heard Jon speak of the free folk with such reverence. "It's quite cold up north."
Jon smirked, pulling her closer, "For a southern girl, perhaps…but I'll be there to keep you warm."
Selene did feel warm. She felt warm all over. Smiling mischievously, she said, "Oh? How so?"
"Well, first I would build a wooden cabin, with a great big hearth, and-"
"-a great big bed to match?"
"You read my mind."
Selene laughed, her sadness falling away like a discarded suit of armor. She felt lighter.
Jon grew serious, "I know it's no consolation for what you've lost, but…know that you always have my name, if you want it."
Selene blinked in surprise.
Jon cleared his throat, "I mean, of course, Snow can't compare to Baratheon or Stark, but it's mine and…It could be yours, if you'd like-"
"Jon, I'd be honored to have your name."
"Truly?"
Selene grinned, "Truly."
Jon reached forward, tucking a dark curl behind her ear, his eyes following his finger as he wrapped it around her hair. "Selene Snow."
Selene laughed sharply, "My name is usually so much longer, followed by title after title…" her voice trailed off when she saw Jon deflate. She lifted his chin to meet his eyes, putting all the love she had for him in her voice, "Of all the names I've born, of all the people I've been, I have a feeling Selene Snow will be the happiest."
Jon beamed, gathered her up in his arms and kissed her. Selene's heart leapt into her mouth, kissing him back, knowing he was worth every sacrifice she'd made. He felt warm and familiar. He felt solid and safe. She wanted to cling to his furs, bury her face into the warm curve of his neck and never let go.
Perhaps they would have stayed like that forever, if not for the horses approaching.
They broke the kiss, but stayed in each other's arms.
Davos nodded, "Sorry to disturb you, my…friends." He caught himself about to use their old titles, swinging his leg from his horse. "While you were being held, Jon, I went to King's Landing to get someone I thought might help us in our war." He turned toward the tall young man striding toward them.
Selene stiffened, stepping back behind Jon.
Renly?
It was as if Renly had come again; long of limb and broad of shoulder, the same coal-black hair, fine and straight, the same deep blue eyes and easy smile…the young man walking up to them could only be Renly as she'd last seen him.
Jon looked at her quizzically, before turning back to the men.
Davos gestured to the young man, "Jon, this is Clo-"
"The name's Gendry." The man interrupted proudly, much to the frustration of his companion. "I'm Robert Baratheon's son," he inclined his head, "Bastard son," he added.
Jon's eyes snapped to Davos in surprise, before the eyes of all three of them turned to Selene.
Selene swallowed hard. She had known for years about her half-siblings, but it was easier for her to shut her eyes and pretend not to know. She wondered how many were out there, with fine black hair and startling blue eyes who she could call her family.
Davos narrowed his eyes, "He was supposed to keep that to himself."
Gendry shrugged, "Our fathers trusted each other. Why shouldn't we?" He glanced at Selene, stepping forward and extending a hand, "Sorry. Davos said we'd be meeting Ned Stark's son, but didn't mention no lady. I'm Gendry."
Selene stared at his hand. It was callused and large, like her father's hand.
Davos walked up to Gendry, clapping him hard on the back. "If you had listened to me and shut your mouth, I would have explained." Davos looked at her regretfully, "Apologies. I didn't know you'd be here, too."
Selene opened her mouth, but no words came out.
Gendry frowned, "What are you talking about?"
Davos sighed, "Gendry, you great big dolt, I'd like to introduce you to your trueborn sister, Selene."
A deep flush crept up her half-brother's neck, turning his whole face ablaze with embarrassment. Gendry cleared his throat, got down on one knee, and said, "Apologies, milady Baratheon."
The embarrassment was now mutual. "Arise, please." She looked toward Davos and Jon, "Could we have a moment alone?"
Jon and Davos gave each other a sidelong glance, and walked away.
Gendry got up, "I've never met a princess before."
"You still haven't. I've been attainted."
Her half-brother shook his head, "I don't know what that means."
Selene pinched the bridge of her nose, "It means I'm not a princess anymore, or a noble, or a Baratheon."
Gendry grinned, "You're like me, then."
Selene grimaced, "Exactly. Davos said you were in King's Landing. Is that where you were born?"
He nodded, "Flea Bottom, born and bred."
"Your mother?"
"Died when I was little. She had yellow hair."
Selene half-smiled, "Mine, too." She met his gaze, but had to look away, "I can hardly look at you."
Gendry mumbled his apologies.
"No, don't be sorry, I only mean you look like my…our uncle, Renly. Just like our father before he gained all that weight."
"I do?" Gendry looked touched.
Selene smiled, "Yes, you do."
Gendry beamed. "Thanks."
"What for?"
"For being nice to me. You don't have to be."
Selene looked to Jon, remembering what he'd told her only moments before, "It's the blood that matters, not the name. You're my brother."
Daenerys took my name, so the gods have given me a brother.
"How much do you know about our father?"
Gendry shook his head, "Only what people say."
"I'll tell you about him," Selene said earnestly, turning toward Dragonstone, feeling her spirits lift. "I'll tell you all about him."
###
Selene and Jon found themselves walking beneath the archways that divided Dragonstone's courtyards.
Selene wanted to find someone, anyone, to speak to. After her isolation in her room and the declaration of her attainder, even Arianne Martell would be a welcome sight. She wanted to speak to Olenna or Garlan, Ser Barristan or Myrcella, any friendly face she could find.
Who she wanted to avoid, and naturally the first person she saw, was Aegon.
The dragon prince was sparring with Duck and Garlan, looking like a man on the warpath. They must be fighting with dulled steel, Selene thought. Put an edge in Aegon's sword and they'd be dead.
Selene froze, turning to Jon, "We should go. This will only end badly."
Jon's jaw locked, "We shouldn't have to hide from anybody."
Too late, Aegon spotted them. His gripped tightened on his sword, but it was nothing compared to the tightness of his smile, "Ah, if it isn't the happy couple. Come, come."
Selene summoned as much dignity as she could, and stepped into the courtyard, Jon at her side. She locked eyes with Garlan.
The knight gave her a sincere smile, "I'm glad to see you alive, princess."
Selene opened her mouth to respond, but Aegon was quicker, "I believe you are mistaken, ser." He turned his head, looking about the courtyard, "There are no princesses here."
Selene rolled her eyes, crossing her arms over her chest, "Gods, Aegon. Don't be shy. Is there something you wish to say?"
Aegon hesitated, before saying, "Could we speak alone?"
Selene opened her mouth to speak, but paused. "No, we can't. You have to respect Jon, too, not just me. Whatever you have to say, you can say it to us both."
For a second, she could almost see Young Griff in him. He bore a great sadness on his shoulders…but then he was gone, replaced by Prince Aegon Targaryen. "As you will. When you tire of him and your life of poverty, you'll always be welcome back in my bed. Not as my wife or queen, but as my mistress."
Selene sneered, ready to cross swords with him, when Jon furrowed his brows and said quietly, "Back?"
Aegon turned in surprise, a cruel smile gracing his lips. How could I ever have thought him handsome? "She didn't tell you? Oh, Selene, how could you not tell the poor man?"
"There's nothing to tell!" She cried angrily, "Jon, we never…not once-"
"I seem to remember a few times when we were only a few words from-"
"Enough." Jon said darkly. "Say another word against her, and I swear you'll regret it."
Ser Garlan sighed, "I'm growing weary of this. Kill each other, if you must, but enough of this squabbling."
Aegon and Jon looked at each other for half a heartbeat. Jon drew his sword as Aegon took a defensive stance.
Selene glared at Garlan, "Thanks for that."
"Come on, then, bastard."
Jon stepped forward, swinging. Aegon blocked the blow, pushing him away.
Garlan was at her side in an instant, "We should let them-"
Selene pulled away, "We can't let them, Garlan. Daenerys needs Aegon, and I need Jon." She turned back to the men, who were throwing killing blows around.
This is a mistake, she knew, but she could see no other way to stop the fight.
Selene rushed forward, "Stop it, before someone gets-"
Aegon sliced, not seeing her.
Selene cried out as the tip of his sword grazed her upper arm. Blood bloomed beneath her tunic.
"Selene!" Jon dropped his sword in an instant, rushing forward as she fell to the ground.
Aegon looked horrified, his sword clattering to the ground.
Jon tore his cloak, wrapping it tight around her wound, "Get a maester!"
"I'm fine," she insisted through grit teeth. She had suffered worse.
Aegon was as white as a sheet, "I didn't mean-" he stepped forward.
"Get away from her!" Jon said viciously, "Go!"
Aegon looked between them, opened his mouth to speak, but was interrupted.
"I can take a look."
Selene grimaced, "Jon said maester. Not halfmaester."
Haldon knelt beside her, "A halfmaester for a halfwit. It's a perfect match, no?"
Jon looked between them, confused by their bickering. "Can you help her?"
The halfmaester sighed, ripping the fabric of her tunic to inspect the wound. "Hmm…it needs to be cleansed and sown up, or it may become infected and leave a nasty scar."
"Great," Selene said, attempting to stand. "Shall I go to your chambers or-"
"Actually, I can't help you. You see, before I would have, as you were a lady, but now…I serve my prince. Either he commands me, or you'll need to pay for my service."
Selene looked to Aegon. He hesitated, but then nodded at his maester.
"Very well then. With me, please."
Selene shot one last over her shoulder at Aegon, before she followed Haldon to his chambers, Jon at her side.
Selene could be forgiven for thinking she was back on the Shy Maid when she entered Haldon's chambers. One wall was lined with bookshelves and bins stacked with old scrolls and parchments, another held racks on ointments, herbs, and potions. The furnishings included a bunk, a writing desk, a chair, a stool, and the Halfmaester's cyvasse table, strewn with carved wooden pieces.
Haldon swirled around the room in a flurry of grey, the frayed edges of his cloak kissing the ground as he found the right herbs for his concoction.
"So this is where you've been hiding," said Selene, "I feel like I haven't seen you since Meereen."
"I've been pouring over every book on this isle. Queen Daenerys needs her sharpest mind on the task."
"And she settled for you in my absence?"
Haldon laughed, "I have missed sparring with you, Joanna. Not with swords, like any fool, but in the way that matters." As he grinded powder, he said, "This should only take a few moments," he glanced at Jon with his calculating, cool grey eyes, "No need for you to be here."
Selene turned to Jon from where she sat upright on the center table, "He's right. You've been imprisoned for days. You should tell Sansa what's happened."
"I can't leave you."
She smiled, "I'm fine. It's just a scratch." She watched him fidget, and knew what he was truly avoiding, "You have to tell your family the truth."
Jon sighed, "You're right." he brought her hand to his lips, "Find me when you can." He turned to Haldon, "Thank you for your help."
Haldon waved his hand, "It's my prince you should be thanking."
Jon gave her one last look, before leaving.
Haldon gave her his back, "So that's what true love looks like, eh? Doesn't seem worth all the fuss."
Selene rolled her eyes, "If you could stitch me up without dazzling me with your wit, I'd be very grateful."
Haldon chuckled, "Actually, I don't have to listen to you anymore. No one does. That's what attainder does." He turned, walked up to her and dipped a brush into his bowl. "Welcome to the real world, Joanna," he said, before slathering the purple substance over her wound.
Selene sucked in her breath when the stinging began. She squeezed the edges of the table, biting on her tongue to keep from crying out. When the initial pain subsided, she said, "My name is not Joanna."
Haldon shrugged, "Perhaps not, but you may as well be now. I never thought I'd live to see a noble attainted. Do you know what happened last time?"
Selene tried to remember her history, "Something about a knight being found abed with a king's mistress." Though for the life of her, she could not remember which king.
"A history half-remembered may as well be forgotten."
Selene scoffed, "Well?"
Haldon reached for his needle and thread, looping the thread into its head while preparing her arm for the incision, "Ser Terrance Toyne was a knight of the Kingsguard who fell in love with Bethany Bracken, a mistress of King Aegon IV Targaryen. When the king found them abed, he had Terrance attainted, before dismembering him piece by piece, while Bethany was forced to watch before meeting her own death."
Selene cursed as his needle worked its way across her skin. "Don't you have any milk of the poppy or something that could help with the pain?"
"I do."
Selene could hear her teeth grinding in her skill, "Could I have some, please?"
"No."
"Why not?"
"Because I need to save my ingredients for people who matter, not commoners like you. Say the queen or one of her lords needs my help. What shall I tell them? That I used up all I had on you?"
Selene cursed, "Just get on with it."
Haldon tsked, "You may want to be kinder to a man with a needle in your skin."
Selene narrowed her eyes. "Kindness goes both ways."
Haldon laughed, "You think so? Oh, you are in for a very big surprise when you step into the real world."
Selene felt her anger like a second pulse, only heightened by the burning pain in her arm, "I'm not naïve. I've see much of the world and its woes. I've been beaten, imprisoned, enslaved-"
"And you have been a princess through it all. Tell me, have you ever worked a field?"
"Well, no, but-"
"Well, you better learn. You think you're special, don't you? I can tell you exactly who you are. Born and raised in your father's court, you've always been the center of attention. Beautiful and dutiful, yet willful and outspoken enough to amuse those around you, without ever creating a scandal. Am I wrong so far?"
Selene stayed silent.
"You have never considered where your meals come from, or how your pretty silk dresses find themselves in your chambers." He gestured to himself, "You've never thought of paying for a maester's services, or-"
"Alright, you've made your point." Selene conceded, "I'm a privileged, spoiled princess who knows nothing and cares for no one but herself. Satisfied?"
"I'm never satisfied, but you do amuse me."
"Oh, do I? Wonderful. I'm glad someone is amused at my misfortune."
"Misfortune? That's an interesting word to use."
"What would you call being attainted? Cause for celebration?"
Haldon smirked, "You knew marrying a bastard without your queen's permission would have consequences, yet you did it anyway."
"I did, and I would do it again."
"Well, you have the man you love, you both have your lives, and once the war is over you'll have your freedom. And yet you use the word misfortune."
Selene sighed, "My name has been taken from me. My sister will marry her Dornish prince and the Baratheon name will die out…" Selene looked away, "Like the Toynes, history will forget us."
"And that bothers you?"
"Of course it does."
Haldon shook his head, "Do you know how many generations of commonfolk have lived and died without history ever taking note? Does that make their lives worth any less than yours?"
Selene looked away.
Haldon snipped the thread. "There. You're all sown up." He went over to his wash basin to rinse his hands of her blood. "I would take care with your arm until it fully heals. No fighting."
Selene lifted her arm to see his handiwork. The cut had been wide and jagged, but the halfmaester had made a neat line. Her scar would be thin and clean. "Thank you, Haldon."
"You're welcome…Selene."
She smiled.
Haldon went to the door, "You're welcome to stay here for a bit, or if you'd prefer to leave-" he opened the door, freezing when he saw what stood outside.
"What is it?"
Haldon turned, "The Prince of Dragonstone is here to see you, I expect."
Selene shook her head, "I don't want to see him."
Haldon raised a brow, "Remember yourself, girl. Do you really think you have any choice in the matter?"
Selene sighed. He's right. I am no one. I can hardly refuse the Prince of Dragonstone.
Haldon nodded at her, before leaving. Aegon entered, holding a small plate of biscuits.
Selene turned, "You may be able to go wherever you please, but you can't make me listen."
Aegon sighed, placing the biscuits on the table, "I had them made for you. The way Ysilla used to make. I even asked for honey and butter."
Selene's stomach rumbled.
Aegon stifled a laugh, "Take one, please."
Selene eyed him warily, "How do I know they're not poisoned?"
Aegon looked genuinely offended, "I would never-"
"Hurt me?" Selene challenged, lifting her elbow so he could see the stitched flesh.
Aegon reddened. While he chose his words, Selene swiped a hot biscuit, dripping in butter and honey, and took a bite.
He gave her a small smile, before murmuring, "I didn't mean to hurt you."
"You meant to hurt Jon, which is the same to me. Aegon…look, I'm sorry that I broke our betrothal.
"Selene, that's not-"
"I know when we first met, there was something there…well, the beginning of something, but-"
"Selene, if you would only just-"
"I love him, Aegon. I couldn't deny that and I refuse to spend the rest of my life-"
"For fuck's sake, Selene. Can I get a word in?"
That took her aback. She took a deep breath, and nodded.
"Thank you." Aegon pinched the bridge of his nose. "Ever since I was a boy, I was told I would marry my aunt. Growing up, I heard nothing but how beautiful she was, how fortunate I was, how we were both destined to rule the Seven Kingdoms together…I thought I was the luckiest man alive, until I met Joanna."
Selene gave him a half-smile.
Aegon's grin filled his face, and made him seem younger, "Joanna, the bold bastard girl who could wield a sword as well as any man. Who made me laugh and called me names and swiped Ysilla's biscuits for us to share. And gods, the way the sun would hit her as she rose from the river for her baths…I would wait with bated breath every morning and think of nothing else all day."
Selene blushed, but listened.
"Suddenly, I didn't dream of a silver-haired girl with purple eyes, some distant figure far away who existed only in the stories others would tell me, but of the black-haired peasant girl only inches away, who would scrunch up her face trying to learn the harsh, ugly tongue of Old Ghis."
Selene laughed, "You need a bee up your nose to speak Ghiscari properly."
Aegon smiled, "For the first time, I wasn't a prince with a grand destiny, I was an ordinary man, besotted with an ordinary girl, and I was happy." His smile disappeared like the sun behind the clouds, "And then Joanna died in front of me, and Selene Baratheon took her place, a scion of the families who murdered mine."
Selene had to stop him there, "Joanna never existed, Aegon."
Aegon shook his head, "I don't believe that. Don't you see, Selene? You are Joanna. Strip away the finery, the nobility, the duty and Joanna is the person you truly are."
Selene frowned, "You can't pick a person apart, choose the pieces you like, and call that love."
"It's Daenerys who's picked you apart. Selene Baratheon is gone. Now you can be Joanna again. You're free."
"Is that why you hate Jon?"
Aegon grimaced, "At first, it was because I knew how you felt toward him, and I was envious. How could I not be, knowing how much you cared for him? But now that you've wed, and you've lost your name." He met her eyes, his own burning like purple fire, "Jon Snow gets to spend the rest of his life with the girl I fell in love with. With Joanna. That burns more than I ever thought possible."
Selene reached forward, grabbing his hand, "I'm sorry, Aegon. You deserve someone who is sure about you. You'll find someone who will love you as much as you love them, but it's not me."
Aegon looked back and forth between her eyes, and gave her a small nod.
Finally. This talk was long overdue. "You'll be kind to Jon?"
Aegon smiled, "Kind may be a bit of a stretch. How about polite?"
Selene smiled, "I think that's a good start."
A knock at the door.
Aegon looked to Selene, his brows furrowed.
Selene shrugged, "It's your call, Your Grace."
Aegon chuckled, "Enter."
Messandei, the little Naathi scribe, poked her head in. Her golden eyes landed on Selene. "The queen kindly requests your presence in her chambers."
Selene straightened, "I'll be there." Another talk that's long overdue. "We should really do this again sometime. Perhaps you could carve up my right arm instead?"
Aegon laughed, "Next time, then."
Selene followed the little scribe through the castle, though in truth she could have made her own way to the queen's chambers. It was while walking above the parapets that she ran into Olenna Tyrell and Arianne Martell, speaking alone.
"My ladies," Selene said with surprise. What strange bedfellows these two make. The wizened old Queen of Thorns and the hot-blooded young Dornish princess.
Both their eyes fell to Missandei.
"You can go on ahead, Missandei," Selene said kindly, "I know my way there."
The little girl bowed, and left them.
Selene smirked, "If I didn't know any better, I would think you two were plotting."
"It's clear you don't know any better." Arianne said.
Selene laughed, "Sneer all you want, princess, I know you spoke in my defense. I must say I am touched."
Arianna snickered.
Olenna stepped forward, "Gods, Selene. I need to ask…what madness possessed you to elope with a bastard? You? Who was to become the Princess of Dragonstone and queen one day?"
Selene sighed, "The madness of love, my lady."
"Love," Olenna shook her head with disappointment, "I always thought you had more sense. And now you've lost everything."
Selene thought of Jon, of what their life will be once the war is over, "I disagree. I must thank you both for advising Daenerys of my release."
Olenna stepped forward, "Tell me truly, Selene. When you took Casterly Rock, did you tell your uncle and his army where to find my men?"
"I did."
Colour rose to the old woman's cheeks, "After all I've done for you, how dare you-"
"Lady Olenna, I did tell my uncle, and then I sent thousands of Unsullied soldiers after him, to defend your men."
For the first time in what Selene imagined was a long time, the Queen of Thorns was speechless. Her watery blue eyes flicked back and forth quickly, "That's why the Unsullied were there…" she murmured softly.
"They made it, then?"
"Oh, yes. Together, we crushed the Lannisters."
Selene's mouth felt dry, "Did you capture Jaime Lannister?"
Olenna shook her head, "We had him, but the man slipped through our fingers, much to your relief, I'm sure."
Relief flooded her heart, but she tried to keep her face blank.
Arianne Martell cleared her throat, "I believe I owe you an apology."
Selene turned in surprise, "You? Apologize? Forgive me, but am I still dead?"
The Dornish princess rolled her eyes, "When you were dead, I accused you of conspiring with the Lannisters. I…should not have said that."
Selene smiled, "Thank you, princess."
Olenna was still looking at her strangely, "It was an ill thing to take your name."
Selene looked down, "No worse than I deserve."
The old woman shook her head, and Selene had the feeling she was holding something back. There's a first time for everything.
###
Selene entered Daenerys' chambers tentatively.
The queen stood out on the balcony, her back to the door.
She swallowed nervously. Does she hate me? Selene walked across the room, passing the wooden dragons carved into the furniture, the stone dragons carved into the walls, the metal dragons overlooking the hearth. I am surrounded.
Daenerys had two goblets of wine ready on the ledge. She gestured for Selene to take one.
Selene hesitated.
Daenerys rolled her eyes. "It's not poisoned, if that's what you fear. If I wanted to kill you, I would have."
Selene picked it up and took a swig. She stared at its contents, "It was a brilliant move, truly. Was it Tyrion's idea?"
"Mine. He's not the only one who can be clever."
Selene smiled, "That he is not."
Daenerys looked away, "He told me about your nightmares."
Selene closed her eyes, "I wish he hadn't." When she opened them, Daenerys was facing her. The dragon queen gathered Selene's hands in hers.
"I would never do that to you, Selene. Never."
She sighed, "I know you wouldn't. They were just dreams."
Daenerys didn't seem convinced, "I know this may be hard to believe, but I don't want you to hate me."
"Hate you?" Selene was taken aback, "I feared you hated me."
Daenerys smirked, "I did, you know. For a while, I was so furious and betrayed and…sad."
"Sad?"
Daenerys looked to the sea, "If you, my friend and heir, could betray me, then who wouldn't?"
"You must know that I never meant to betray you. I only wanted to be with the man I love."
"You and Aegon-"
Selene straightened, "That was your and Tyrion's doing, not mine. I never loved him. I chose a man who compels my strength, who does not doubt my courage or my resolve, who does not believe me weak or innocent, who has the courage to treat me like a woman."
Daenerys laughed, "You don't have to prove you love him anymore, Selene. You made that quite clear when you risked your life to defy me. You must hate me. I took your name away."
Selene's stomach sank. The sadness came and went in waves. "That you did. It was one of the worst things to ever happen to me. After my son, Robb and my father."
Daenerys raised a brow, "You don't seem very devastated."
"I was, at first, but I have Jon, don't I? And once this war is over, I'll have my freedom. Those are two things I never dreamed I would have."
Daenerys smiled warmly, "Would you believe me if I said I was happy for you?"
Selene took in the face of this smiling queen, the most beautiful woman in the world, whose words were as sweet as honey, but her deeds… "My sister and I will be the last Baratheons. You've ended my line."
Daenerys let go of her hands, "As you've ended mine."
Selene grimaced, "You've legitimized Aegon. His name is Targaryen. He will rule, have a son, also named Targaryen…your name will live on."
"Yes, my name. Don't think I don't hear the whispers behind my back. No one believes he's Rhaegar's son. You were the only reason people were willing to accept him. You are my blood. Yes, my name will live on. But my line is just as finished as yours. Now we're even."
Selene closed her eyes. She's right, you know, whispered a voice in her head.
I defied her. I broke her trust. I deserved what I got.
Selene opened her eyes, "You're right. Will you ever forgive me?"
Daenerys furrowed her brows, silent. For a while, Selene worried that they would stand there forever, until Daenerys said, "I already forgive you, Selene. That's not my fear." She turned, her violet eyes wet, "I'm worried we'll…we'll never be as close as we were."
Selene cleared her throat, "I fear the same. I want to be, Dany, I truly do. My name may no longer be Baratheon, but I'm still your kin."
Daenerys gave her a half-smile, "Yes, you are…but I hope you will one day be my friend again."
I hope so, too. Selene wanted to embrace her, but held back. It's too soon. She felt very much like how she did when they first made their tentative truce in Meereen. "How can I earn your trust again?"
Daenerys raised her brows, "Funny enough, I had something in mind."
"Oh, do you? Go on, then."
"Storm's End still hasn't bent the knee."
Selene felt pride swell in her chest. No, I'm sure it hasn't.
"Try not to look too upset about it, Selene."
Selene laughed. "Well, what do you want me to do about it? I'm no longer their lady."
"That you're not, but…you're still Robert's daughter. You're the best chance I have to subdue them. The best chance they have of survival."
Selene felt a chill down her spine.
"Storm's End bends the knee, or it burns. The choice is theirs. Help them make it."
She nodded, not feeling like she had very much choice. "Where will you be?"
"In about a week's time, we're attending a summit in King's Landing."
"A summit?" Selene was taken aback. I've missed too many councils. It took her a moment to remember she was no longer allowed in the council meetings. "With my mother?"
Daenerys nodded, "The country has fallen. All Cersei has is the Iron Throne. Tyrion thinks she can be persuaded to give it up to save herself. If not, the siege will continue, while the rest of us journey north."
Selene smiled, "I can't believe you're still going north to help fight an army of dead men."
Daenerys sighed, "I told the council I would while you were dead. If I back out now, it will look like I don't keep my word."
"Do you believe there really are dead men out there?"
"What I believe doesn't matter. The north believes it. If they're right and I sit here and do nothing…I'd rather go and show the country I mean to earn my title of Protector of the Realm."
Selene beamed. She really is something special. "Well said. I should be there with you at the summit. She is my mother, after all. Myrcella and I may be the best chance of getting through to her."
Daenerys turned toward the sea, palms on the stone, "Then you better get to work in the stormlands, Selene…"
"Snow. Selene Snow."
Daenerys Targaryen's lip curved, "It suits you. Get to work, Selene Snow."
Author's Note:
Hope you all enjoyed this chapter! Please leave a review if you can.
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Guest: Hmm, perhaps…
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