Author's Note: Hey everyone! Sorry for the long wait! I'm not quite feeling my best yet so I'm not writing as fast as usual, and on top of that I wanted to be sure to give you a longer chapter this time. Episode eight was absolutely wild and filled with scenes I wanted to include in the chapters. This one covers from where we left off last time through the end of the scene in the throne room. all other scenes in the episode will be included in later chapters... as always, happy reading! I hope you all enjoy!
THE DRAGON & THE ROSE - EPISODE EIGHT/PART ONE
"Aegon jeldan se guēse ossēntan." Jace read aloud, translating the common tongue on the scroll before him into High Valyrian.
"Aegon jeldan se guēse ropatas," Aemon corrected, keeping his eyes on the book he was reading.
"That's what I said!" Jace said with exasperation, looking to him frustratedly.
"No." Aemon began, turning his page with a small smile. "You said that Aegon ordered the trees to be killed. He wanted them felled."
"Same difference," Jace scoffed, shaking his head as he looked back down.
"Pay him no mind, Jace," Rhaena laughed lightly, "None of us will ever be as smart as he is, and he just loves to remind us of that."
"Study is the same as combat." Aemon defended himself, finally closing his book to look up at them. "The more you do it the better you get."
"It doesn't matter how many hours I spend practicing arithmetic," Viseryn mumbled, "I'll never understand it, not in the slightest."
"While Aemon is right that everything requires practice," Elaena interjected, drawing all the eyes of the children onto her, "It's also true that everyone has their own talents and abilities. No one can be the best at everything."
"But your High Valyrian and skill with combat are both equally excellent, Aunt Elaena," Jace responded, seeming frustrated with himself. "Why aren't mine?"
"When I was your age speaking Valyrian and the art of needle-point were really the only things I was well versed in," Elaena smiled softly, walking to sit across from him and her daughter at the long table. "I could hardly lift a sword let alone actually use it. It took years of practice and dedication to get to where I am today."
"Your aunt is right, you have plenty of time in this world to become better at speaking Valyrian, Jace," Rhaenyra agreed. She then turned to Viseryn, a small smile on her lips, "And you, my nephew, have plenty of time to better yourself at arithmetic."
All of the children nodded, then returned to their independent studies. Elaena stood from her seat at the table and walked over to Aemon, who was sitting by the fire with his book. She knelt down next to him, speaking quietly so that the others wouldn't hear.
"Instead of jabbing at your siblings and cousins about being better than them, why don't you help them study? Jace could use the tutoring with Valyrian, and your own brother with numbers," Elaena whispered, placing her hand on his own.
"Why should I?" Aemon asked, his eyes revealing a bit of pain. "They all poke fun at my combat skills because of my hand-"
"And they also train with you everyday to help you get better," Elaena interrupted, raising her brows at him a little. She let out a small sigh of air as he looked away from her, continuing with her next point. "You're also the eldest of them all. It's your job to set an example for them. Don't you want to see them succeed? I know they want to see you succeed with your sword."
Aemon nodded, then closed his book to stand. Elaena gave her son's hand a small squeeze and then stood as well, placing her hand gently on his back as they walked towards the rest of them all at the table. Once they got there he leaned down over Jace, quietly helping him with his Valyrian as Elaena continued towards Rhaenyra.
The two stood side by side, watching their children now work together. Once he finished helping his cousin, Aemon took a step to the side towards his brother Viseryn, pointing at the parchment on the table and explaining something quietly.
"You're a great mother," Rhaenyra said softly, turning to Elaena, "Perhaps the best I know."
"I don't know about that," Elaena exhaled, returning a sad smile. "You're a tough rival."
"Thank you," Rhaenyra laughed lightly, putting her hand over swollen stomach. "But I don't think I am. If I was I wouldn't be so terrified for the next one."
"Why are you terrified?" Elaena asked, her eyebrows furrowing together.
"The legitimacy of my children has been questioned more times than I care to count. I worry that when this child is born, it will resemble Harwin, confirming yet again the truth of it all. I also worry that it will resemble Laenor...for that will confirm it as well. Either way I feel like this child will be the nail in my coffin at court," Rhaenyra whispered, any sense of happiness on her face drained completely.
"You can't worry about that," Elaena responded, taking Rhaenyra's hand into her own. "No matter what happens I'll protect you. I'll protect all of your children as I know you will mine. And Laenor will too, you know that. He's always treated the boys as his own."
"I know that," Rhaenyra nodded, tears welling in her eyes now. "But for the past eight years he has been back and forth from the Stepstones to fight alongside his father. The last time he was here he only stayed for a few weeks. The boys need more than he can give...you're lucky to have Daemon as your children's father."
"I know I am," Elaena whispered, "He's a good father, a great one."
"Do you ever think about having another child with him?" Rhaenyra asked, steering the focus of the conversation onto Elaena so she could dry her eyes.
"We've tried our best to have another," Elaena nodded, a sad smile returning to her lips.
"I know you have," Rhaenyra said, stiffling down her small laugh.
"Oh, shut up," Elaena chuckled lightly, "My point is that we've tried for another child... but nothing's come of it. Perhaps the gods don't want us to have another."
"Fuck the gods," Rhaenyra said more seriously. "They're vicious and cruel cunts. Everything we do should be in spite of them, not for them."
"They might have handed us our share of tragedies, yes. But they also gave us a lot... I thank them every day for my children, for Daemon, for you. For our entire family...you've all brought me a happiness I didn't know possible."
"That's true," Rhaenyra conceded, nodding once. "But I don't-"
Their conversation was swiftly interrupted by the door opening behind them, the two women halting whatever words came next. When they turned around they saw that it was only Daemon, walking in with a scroll in hand and a disconcerting look on his face.
"What is it, my love?" Elaena asked, sensing immediately that whatever news he brought wasn't good. She felt fear in her chest that it had finally happened, that Viserys had died, but rather than confirm or deny this suspicion he only looked to the children.
Rhaenyra understood his meaning by this, then turned to them all with a stern voice, "You all can continue your studies tomorrow. Leave us."
"We can have free time before supper?" Luke asked, seeming excited already.
"Yes, yes, now go," Rhaenyra said quickly, shaking her head towards the door to get them all to leave.
One by one they collected their books and scrolls, then hurried out of the room as they all talked and giggled together about what to do with this free time. Once the door behind them was shut, Daemon handed Rhaenyra the scroll in his hand, then looked to his wife. Elaena walked to his side, allowing him to wrap his arm around her waist as she waited for Rhaenyra to finish reading it.
"What is it, sister?" she asked, feeling nerves crack in her voice.
"It's Laenor," Rhaenyra muttered, not taking her eyes off of the inked words. "He's been killed in the Stepstones. And Corlys is gravely injured."
"What?" Elaena breathed out, this being the last thing that she had expected to hear. She looked up to Daemon, only to see him solemnly nod to confirm what she had just learned.
Rhaenyra crumpled the scroll and walked away from them, she didn't stop until she reached the large fireplace, then threw the parchment into it without hesitation. "My husband is dead, his father nearly dead. And because of it Vaemond is contesting my son's right as heir to the Driftwood Throne for himself."
"But why?" Elaena asked, shaking her head. "Even if Luke's inheritance of the Driftwood throne is being contested, wouldn't it go to Lucerys, the boy's namesake?"
"It is no secret that Laenor's brother and your ex-fiancé has been lacking in his duties in Driftmark," Rhaenyra commented, "There's no way that anyone would let him ascend as Lord of the Tides even if they somehow proved Luke's birth wasn't legitimate."
"Even so, Vaemond knows that by rerouting the succession from Luke to himself he would be disinheriting Luke and Jace's legitimacy, as well as your own."
"He only cares about Driftmark and the Velaryon line," Daemon finally said, "He doesn't care about our politics, about how it will affect us. We need Rhaenys to advocate for Luke before he gets to King's Landing to smear the boy's name."
"How are we going to ask this of her so soon?" Elaena asked nervously, her eyes flitting back and forth between them. "She'll be-"
"-devastated, I know," Rhaenyra finished for her, "As am I for the loss of my husband and father of my children. But we have to settle the matter of succession quickly, before Vaemond can turn Alicent to his side. My father's illness has allowed for her to take nearly complete control of the court as it is."
"Rhaenys has made it clear in the past that her and Corlys always wanted Luke as heir," Daemon said strongly now. "Having Baella and him engaged to be wed will only strengthen that claim. We need to get to King's Landing before Vaemond does so we can advocate Luke's claim."
"Yes," Rhaenyra nodded, sniffling once. "We'll leave in the morning."
"We'll go get Aemon, Viseryn, and Rhaena," Elaena responded, turning to her husband. "We'll explain to them as we pack."
"I'll do the same with my children," Rhaenrya said quietly. She turned to leave, but was caught by Elaena's arm.
"I'm sorry, sister," Elaena said softly, "About Laenor."
Rhaenyra nodded, then turned away, not letting either her or Daemon see the beginning of her crying. After telling one of the guards to go find their children, Daemon and Elaena walked slowly through the halls towards their chambers, feeling a heavy weight on their hearts.
"What are we going to tell them?" Elaena asked, looking at Daemon with sad eyes.
"The truth," Daemon said gently, taking her hand into his own. "All of it."
"Surely you don't mean the whole truth, about the question of succession that is, about the boys' father-"
"I do mean that," Daemon said seriously, "They're not little children anymore, they deserve to know what they're walking into. Besides, they already know the truth to some extent, about their cousin's legitimacy. It doesn't matter to them."
"I suppose." Elaena swallowed roughly, not liking where this was heading. As their mother she wanted to shield them from everything in this world.
But as usual when it came to matters like these, he was right. They weren't little babies that she had to protect under her wing, she couldn't hide them away from the reality of the world any longer. They deserved to know why they were going to King's Landing, if not for their own right, for the sake of being more able to protect their cousins who would surely come under scrutiny in the debate of this succession.
Once inside their chambers, they waited side by side as each of their children slowly arrived with confused faces. Aemon and Viseryn sat down across from their parents in the seating area, while Rhaena took a seat by her mother's side.
"What's going on?" Rhaena asked with furrowed brows, "The guards said we needed to come here immediately, and then Baella was pulled away as well to go see Aunt Rhaenys."
"We're very sorry, my darling," Elaena started taking her daughter's hands into her own. She then looked to her sons, shaking her head. "Your Uncle Laenor has died, and your Great Uncle Corlys is gravely injured. We don't know if he will survive."
"How did this happen? Was it in the Stepstones?" Aemon asked, his face falling.
"Yes," Daemon confirmed, leaning forward over his knees and clasping his hands together. "Things in the Stepstones have been getting worse and worse as of late. They fell during the most recent battle."
"We should have been there, all of us," Viseryn said angrily, his face turning redder. "If we were, then maybe Jace, Luke, and Joff would still have their father."
"There is a reason why we don't send young and unseasoned princes into battle, Viseryn," Elaena said more sternly, hating the idea of her sons out in the Stepstones with her whole being. "You aren't ready for it. You could very well have returned home in a coffin next to your uncle if you had been there. We all could have been."
"I was only saying that I wish we could have done something," Viseryn mumbled, looking down into his hands.
"I know you do," Elaena exhaled, feeling her resolve soften a bit. "I'm sorry for raising my voice. I just don't want you thinking that you had any power to change what happened to your uncles. It doesn't do well to dwell on what might have been done to prevent tragedy."
"All we can do now is react smartly, and quickly," Daemon agreed. "Which is what we're doing. We leave for King's Landing in the morning."
"King's Landing?" Rhaena asked, "Wouldn't we be going to Driftmark for the funeral?"
"Not when the succession is up in the air," Aemon said to his sister. He then looked to his mother, a serious look on his face.
"Up in the air? Luke is the heir to Driftmark, Baella too once they're married, we all know that," Rhaena responded with confusion.
"And we also all know that the legitimacy of Luke being heir is constantly questioned," Deamon said slowly.
Elaena gauged her children's responses to this statement, examining their faces closely. None of them seemed suprised at the nature of their father's statement, only surprised that he was finally saying it out loud.
"We don't care whether the rumors are true or not," Aemon continued carefully, "We just don't want to see Jace or Luke or Joff hurt by it. We'll protect them from it in King's Landing, as much as we can."
"Yes, of course we will," Rhaena agreed emphatically, "It doesn't matter who their father is, they're our family."
"We appreciate your sentiments, truly we do," Elaena said softly, "But your father and I also need to remind you of something."
"What is it?" Viseryn asked, leaning forward a little.
"You may think you know King's Landing but the last time you were there you were only children," Elaena started, her voice grave.
"We know it's a dangerous place, you've told us a thousand times-"
"Yes but you don't truly know, do you? Not the way your father and I do at least," Elaena continued sharply, severe warning in her tone and facial expression. "The last time we were in King's Landing you were young and oblivious to the true danger of being there, to the danger that your own kin posed to you. You're adults now, and we can't protect you as we always did. So when we get there you need to be careful, always aware of your surroundings."
"Tensions between the Hightowers and us were never settled," Daemon added, making sure his children understood them both well. "Despite it being eight years since you last saw them, don't expect them to have forgiven or forgotten all that's happened between us."
"We haven't forgiven or forgotten either," Viseryn agreed, looking at his father with serious eyes. "We know they're the enemy."
"And yet you cannot treat them as such," Elaena shook her head. "The game you think you're so ready to play is one of secrecy and hidden emotions. Though I know it is not in any of your hearts to be sneaky and calculating, that is what you must be in order to be safe. You cannot show your cards-"
"We understand, mother," Rhaena said softly, squeezing her mother's hand with care. "We won't do anything stupid."
Elaena nodded, knowing that the only reason she was being so hard on them was because she was scared. Everyone else in her family knew this too. She was the strongest person they knew in the world, but when it came to the safety of her family Elaena became riddled with fear. She had already lost so much in her life, they knew she was terrified of losing anything more.
And despite all of this, they knew that the second a true threat came to them, she would be the fiercest and strongest protecter possible. And since they were going to King's Landing, they all knew it was entirely likely that they would see this side of her very soon.
The Next Evening
After being greeted by Lord Caswell and him alone at the gates of King's Landing, all of the children were taken to their rooms to rest after a long day on the sea. Normally they would have arrived dragonback, but since the nature of their visit was so delicate they thought it best not to be seen as threatening. They were here to try and peacefully assure Luke's succession to the Driftwood Throne, not do it by force.
Once the children were all settled, Rhaenyra, Elaena, and Daemon immediately left for Visery's chambers. Visiting him first was paramount for all of them. Not one person in his family thought he would have lived this long through his illness, so the three dragons felt fear in their heart as they approached his chambers. They feared what they might see, what their dearest cousin, brother, and father had become.
The room was dark, only the smallest sliver of sunlight entered through the windows and black curtains. Incense burned in every corner, filling the room with a haze. Rhaenyra stepped forward first, leaving Daemon and Elaena hand in hand behind her as they moved through the smoke and dark.
As Elaena walked all she could think was that it felt like decay was creeping in the shadows around her. This was not the room of the living, rather one of someone just barely escaping death's grasp.
"Father?" Rhaenyra asked, slowly sitting by his side on the bed.
Elaena felt goosebumps rise on the back of her neck as she saw the state he was in. She gave Daemon's hand a small squeeze, knowing that he was equally disturbed at the sight.
"Who goes there?" Viserys asked, his voice dry and cracked as if he hadn't had a singular sip of water in weeks.
"It's me, my King...Rhaenyra," she said softly, the sound of heartbreak filling the room. "I'm here with Daemon and Elaena."
"Oh," Viserys exhaled, the smallest of smiles raising on his lips. But the smile quickly faded as pain set in, as he prepared himself to move. "Help me up."
Rhaenyra took his hand into her own ever so gently, helping shift him so that he sat up in his bed. Elaena felt a small tear drop from her eye as he grunted in pain.
"It's been so long," Viserys panted, his face scrunching up with sadness.
Elaena watched as her husband avoided his brother's eyes, a look of shame if she wasn't mistaken resonating in his voice, "The Seasnake has suffered a grave injury in the Stepstones, your son by law has died."
"When?" Viserys asked, shaking his head with confusion. "We won that war years ago."
"No, the Triarchy is resurgent," Daemon responded, finally bringing himself to look at Viserys. "The fighting is anew, brother. There is a petition to decide upon the succession of Driftmark."
"Petitions?" Viserys asked, bringing his hand to the bandage over half his face. He slowly rubbed at the skin underneath, completely out of breath as he spoke to them. "Alicent and her brother Gwayne see to all that business now. He's become my Hand in the last few years, standing in place for his father."
"No, brother, listen to me," Daemon insisted, "You must affirm the position for Lucerys to be the successor."
"Has something happened to Lord Corlys?" he asked, seeming concerned and confused.
Daemon stepped forward to continue, but Elaena put her hand on his arm, begging him not to. He was so confused, obviously delirious and not fully aware of the world around him. He wasn't the man they all used to know, not anymore.
"Everything's alright, cousin," Elaena said softly, leaning down to look at him with a small smile.
"Elaena?" he asked, looking at her with a confused delight. "You're back?"
"Yes, I'm back," Elaena nodded, smiling through the tears rolling down her face. She looked to Rhaenyra who was also silently crying, then back to their King.
"Is Rhaena here too?" he asked, hope filling his voice. "I've missed that little one."
"Yes, she's in King's Landing too," Elaena responded, laughing lightly, "But I'm afraid she's not so little anymore. She just had her 14th nameday last week."
"14?" he exhaled, squeezing his eyes shut. "Already?"
"Yes father," Rhaenyra sniffled, "All the children are grown up. And there's another on the way."
"Really?" he asked, turning to his daughter. He looked down to see that she was pregnant, then closed his eyes with a small smile. "Oh goodness-"
He started to cough, then put his hand to his hand in pain. They all watched him with worry on their faces, unsure of what they could do to help him.
"I'm sorry-" he groaned, then pointed to his bedside table, "My tea-"
Daemon immediately walked to the table, taking the cup that rested on it, "This?"
"Yes," Viserys said desperately, immediately leaning over to take it. He drank it quickly, downing whatever the contents were within a second. He then leaned back with a sigh of relief, allowing Daemon to take the cup back.
Elaena watched as Daemon smelled the cup, then looked to her. He handed Elaena the cup as he turned back to his brother, allowing her to draw her own conclusions. What she smelled could not be mistaken for anything else, so she turned to Rhaenyra with a hushed voice, "Milk of the poppy."
Rhaenyra nodded, then spoke once more, "We'll let you rest now father."
She bent down and placed a small kiss on his cheek, then motioned for Daemon and Elaena to follow her. The three walked towards the sitting area of the large quarters, moving away from Viserys so that he wouldn't hear them speaking.
"I don't like that they practically have him sedated," Rhaenyra started, sitting in one of the chairs.
Elaena sat as well with Daemon standing behind her, his hands on her shoulders as they all spoke.
"I don't like it either, but he seems like he's in pain," Elaena said softly, shaking her head. "Perhaps he needs it."
"Surely there's another way to treat the pain without rendering him nearly unconscious," Daemon replied, obviously disapproving of this course of treatment. "He was barely lucid enough to recognize us."
"If he's this out of it then that means Alicent has full control over the kingdom," Rhaenyra agreed, a bitter sound in her voice. "She and her brother Gwayne can do exactly as they like...I didn't think it was this bad."
"Perhaps we can have the maester at Dragonstone come here," Elaena proposed, looking up at Daemon to see his reaction. "Perhaps he'd suggest a different course of treatment-"
The door suddenly opened, revealing Alicent. They all stopped their conversation, watching as she walked in with a small smile, "Princess Rhaenyra, Prince Daemon, and Princess Elaena. It has been so long since we were granted the joy of your presence."
"Indeed, Your Grace," Rhaenyra said politely, putting a hand over her stomach once she noticed Alicent was staring at it. "Though not long enough to merit a greeting upon our arrival."
"I'm sure the Queen had pressing business, sister," Elaena said quietly.
"Yes, you're right," Rhaenyra agreed, "I'm sure ruling has been quite time-consuming."
"I do not rule as you well know, my brother and I are mere stewards of the King's will and wisdom," Alicent said defensively, remaining several paces away from them as she spoke.
"And how exactly is that wisdom expressed?" Daemon asked, cocking his head to the side. "In blinks and wheezes? I'm surprised he could remember his own name."
"King Viserys' condition has worsened since you saw him last. He deals with a considerable amount of pain. The maesters-"
"Ah yes the maesters..." Rhaenyra laughed dryly, walking forward now to close the distance between herself and Alicent. "The maesters keep him addled on milk of the poppy while the Hightowers warm his throne."
"If you would see him without it he is almost blind with suffering," Alicent said with a slight tone of distress.
"I have no doubt it is an act of the purest mercy, my Queen, but tell me for the King's suffering did the maesters also rescribe the removal of all the Targaryen heraldry?" Elaena asked, unable to help but snap at the woman. "Was it them that ordered the installation of various statues and stars for his good health?"
"The emblems of the Seven serve only to guide us on an uncertain path, to remind us of a higher authority. Something we can all be reminded of, Princess," Alicent said more sharply, turning to Elaena with anger.
"And on the morrow, which authority will sit in judgement on my son's claim to his inheritance?" Rhaenyra asked. All sense of pretense or caution between them was gone with this question. They all knew why they were there, there was no need to dance around it any longer.
"That would be my own, and my brother, the Hand's," Alicent said coolly, giving them all a small smile. "But be assured the Father is just and commands me to forget the accusations you three have hurled at me in this room today. Are you familiar with the Father, Princess Elaena? I know you've worshipped the old gods for some time now."
Elaena couldn't help but laugh a little at this, not suprised but also amused that Alicent was standing behind religion yet again to justify herself and tear others down. "Yes, I am familiar with the Father and his teachings, Your Grace. It was the Father's justice that granted me vengeance against your own all those years ago. Don't you remember?"
The smug look on Alicent's face washed away as she was reminded that Elaena killed her father nearly two decades ago. "How could I forget?"
The Next Morning
After their rigid conversation in Viserys' chambers the day prior, Elaena and Daemon left to go rest. They talked for a long while alone about his brother, about their worries for him. And while Daemon wasn't shedding tears like she was for the whole situation, she could see that he was distraught. The two brothers had always had a rocky relationship, but Daemon never wished something like this for Viserys.
And on top of it all it hurt even more to know that Alicent and the rest of the Greens were taking advantage of this illness for their own benefit. It was scary to have the fate of Luke's inheritence in their hands.
Once they had all rested for the night all the children flocked to the training yard for an hour of practice and fun before they were heard in the throne room, and their parents followed suit slowly behind them.
Elaena and Daemon stood with their backs to one of the walls, watching as all the children spoke to each other excitedly.
"They can't help it can they?" Elaena asked, the smallest of smiles on her face.
"Help what?" Daemon asked, looking at them all as they admired the large array of weapons to practice with.
"To be happy to be back," Elaena responded, "Despite the dangers they know this is where they belong, where all the Targaryens belong."
"Yes I suppose we do belong here," Daemon agreed, nodding slowly, "But if I had it my way I'd still choose to be at Dragonstone with you."
"So would I," Elaena muttered, turning her eyes back to the children with them.
Jace and Luke were admiring a large set of daggers together, speaking too quietly for either her or Daemon to hear. But their own daughter was standing with a very long sword in hand, admiring the metalwork as she spoke to her brothers and Baella.
"What have you got there?" Aemon asked, looking at the hilt in Rhaena's hand.
"My sword is beautiful but it simply doesn't compare to this one," Rhaena said mindlessly, weighing the blade in hand to see if she was strong enough to weild it. A smile lifted on her lips as she pointed it forward, the tip hitting Viseryn's chest carefully. "It's absolutely gorgeous, isn't it?"
"That it is," Aemon laughed, pushing the blade off of him as he looked to the strawmen, "Why don't you give it a few swings?"
"On the strawmen?" Rhaena asked, raising her brows at her brother. "It's been years since I've practiced with those. Give me a real challenge and spar with me."
Suddenly a small cluster of laughter sounded to the side, pulling everyone's attention to three silver haired people. Aegon, Aemond, and Helaena all stood, watching their cousins as they shook their heads.
"I'm not sure who I'd bet on in this fight, the cripple or the girl?" Aegon smirked. All three of Elaena's children turned to Alicent's, standing tall by each other's sides.
"I'd hoped for a more warm welcome from you, cousin," Rhaena said defensively of her brother, speaking with sharpness in her voice. "It doesn't seem tasteful to insult us both before saying hello."
"I think what's distasteful is a woman practicing combat," Helaena started, scoffing a little. "It's best to leave activities such as these to the men."
"Our mother and father taught us from a young age that men and women alike should be able to defend themselves, Princess Helaena," Rhaena replied coldly, feeling no sense of commanality with the girl.
"I'm sure they did," Aegon said slowly, his eyes lingering on Rhaena a tad too long for anyone's liking. "Why don't you spar with my brother rather than your own? I'm sure he can provide a bit more of a challenge."
"I could easily spar with him," Rhaena shrugged, confidence exuding from every inch of her being. "But I don't think I want to."
"Scared, cousin?" Aemond asked, raising his brow. Rhaena couldn't help but stare at his eyepatch, remembering the night they all fought where he had lost his eye.
"My sister isn't scared of you, none of us are," Viseryn said smugly, shaking his head. "We just don't interact with people who insult our brother."
"Come on now, we're just having fun," Aemond laughed, his lips turning up into a smirk. "You took my eye, I mangled his hand. I thought we were even."
"Agreed," Aegon nodded, turning to look at Rhaena again. His eyes traveled down her body, then met on her own. It was obvious that he only wanted her to fight so that he could continue to watch her, to admire her.
Everyone could tell that he was eyeing Rhaena, and everyone could tell Helaena hated it. Aegon's sister-wife looked at her cousin with anger and jealousy, her lips pinched together to keep from saying anything.
"So what say you?" Aemond asked, his reasons for wanting to do this not quite as clear as his brother's.
"Fine," Rhaena responded, stabbing the sword she had in hand into the dirt. "But you both might come to regret it."
"No, Rhaena," Aemon stepped forward, shaking his head at his youngest sibling. "You don't have to do this. It should be me or Viseryn doing this, not you-"
"I'm fine, brother," Rhaena assured him, turning to Aemond now with narrowed eyes. "Let's just get this over with."
Elaena and Daemon watched with nervousness as their daughter put on some armor, preparing herself for the supposedly friendly duel. Neither one of them liked this, but they also knew that their daughter was one who wanted to prove herself. Just like her mother she was fiercely protective over those she loved, and she wouldn't easily back down from those who challenged her.
So all they could do now was watch and hope that all of the years of training they gave her would pay off. More than anything, they hoped that she could beat him and knock the Hightowers down a few pegs to show them that they weren't as great as they imagined themselves to be.
Rhaena's parents hands as she lifted her sword, painfully aware that Aegon was watching her with lustful eyes. Elaena never thought she could hate a child, but she did hate Aegon. She hated how he looked at her daughter, she hated how he mocked her sons. And she hated Aemond too for participating in this challenge. It was no surprise in her mind that Alicent had raised boys like them.
"She'll be alright. We trained her well," Daemon muttered to her, wrapping one arm around Elaena's waist and the other around the hilt of his sword. If need be, he wouldn't hesitate to step in for his daughter.
As soon as he did this Rhaena swung her sword at Aemond, taking two quick steps forward without a moment of hesitation. For while she was like her mother, she was also like her father. She knew who her enemies were and didn't falter in making the first move on offense.
"Very good," Aemond said with a surprised smile, his eye watching her closely.
"I don't need your approval," Rhaena said angrily, swinging her sword again at him. Rather than attack her back, he only played defense, dodging her swings and ducking swiftly before facing her again.
"Careful now," he responded, spinning around as she swung yet again. "Don't exhaust yourself. That's a heavy sword you've got there-"
Rhaena didn't respond, grunting as she made another move. But Aemond was much quicker than she was as he stepped out of the way, causing her to swing blindly at the air. Elaena's body tensed as she watched her daughter's face grow more angry, afraid that she would let emotion blind her ability iwth a sword. But her daughter was fierce, the fire of both of her parents ran through her blood.
"When are you going to stop deflecting and actually fight me?" Rhaena asked, breathing heavily as she looked at Aemond.
Aemond only smiled, then lunged forward, his sword meeting hers with a loud clang. Everyone watched silently as the two started fighting each other with full force, each of them putting every ounce of energy they had into the duel.
"Rhaena watch out!" Viseryn shouted, watching nervously as his sister was nearly met with the back of Aemond's sword. But Rhaena quickly leaned back, the sword swinging over her as she dodged his attack.
When she stood up she thrusted the sword in her hand forward, but with one sharp move Aemond knocked it out of her hands, leaving her defenseless.
His sword lifted to her chin as she stood panting, letting it be known that he had won this fight. Elaena watched as her daughter yielded, then turned to Daemon. They exchanged a silent look between themselves then turned back as Aegon began walking towards his brother.
"You fought valiantly for a girl, Rhaena," Aegon piped up, smiling at her with a glimmer in his eye. "But I'm afraid you only proved my wife's point. You should leave the fighting to the men."
"Oh I'm not sure about that, dear nephew," Elaena said loudly, unable to help herself any longer. His eyes widened a bit as she walked towards him, as did Aemond's ever so slightly. Elaena only smiled at this, a slight madness in her eyes as she approached the two boys. "I'd be happy to spar with either of you, show you that fighting is certainly not only a sport for men."
"There's no need, Aunt Elaena," Aegon responded, his smug arrogance quickly replaced by a slight tone of nervousness. "We have all heard the tales of your ability in combat."
"I'm glad to hear that my reptuation precedes me," Elaena smiled, stepping in front of Rhaena protectively. "I would hate for anyone to forget it, least of all my dearest family."
"Not to worry, my love," Daemon said, following closely behind her. "I don't think it possible for anyone to forget you or your abilities."
She looked at both of her nephews with sharp eyes, feeling a small sense of joy as they cowered down from her and Daemon. They might have felt strong enough to try and bully their children, but they both knew that the Rogue Prince and Lost Princess were not people to be so easily trifled with.
Before any other interaction could happen between them, the gate to the training ground opened, revealing the banners of House Velaryon. Elaena felt her heart drop as she saw this, as she saw Vaemond Velaryon walking in. She knew that his arrival meant it was time to argue the heir of Driftmark.
"Come on," Daemon said, softly pulling at his wife's waist. "We should go inside."
"Yes," Elaena nodded, turning to her daughter now. "Come on, Rhaena."
After silently motioning for his sons to follow suit, Daemon escorted Elaena and his daughter to the throne room, each of them walking quietly. Alicent's children followed behind them, watching the family with narrow eyes. After the display in the courtyard it was of no doubt that despite years of distance all the children still feuded with one another. They were as much each other's enemies today as they were the day Aemond's eye was cut out.
Once in the courtroom they waited for everyone else that was supposed to be there to arrive. Elaena left her family once Rhaenys walked in, going to her side with a solemn voice.
"I'm so sorry that we have to do this at all, cousin, but especially so soon after the loss of your son, " Elaena said softly, wrapping Rhaenys into her embrace. Her cousin hugged her tightly, giving her a small rub on the back before responding.
"Thank you, Elaena," Rhaenys sniffeld, pulling away slowly. "I don't want to have to do this either, but we need to make sure that Baella and Luke ascend the Driftwood throne should my husband pass away. I don't want to see Vaemond snatch it out from them."
"I don't understand how he could vie for the throne," Elaena said quietly, shaking her head. "Even if Luke's ascension was contested, wouldn't it go to your second son Lucerys? The one who's been holding the throne in you and Corlys' absence?"
"Though I love him, my only remaining child has been deep in drink near on five years now. He has done a poor job of ruling in his father's name," Rhaenys said frankly, "No one wants him as Lord of the Tides. I'm afraid it will either be Vaemond or Luke who is given the official title as heir."
Elaena nodded, pinching her lips together as she thought. But Rhaenys pulled her attention back, giving her a small squeeze of the hand.
"Don't worry, I meant what I said all those years ago," Rhaenys assured her. "This fight is yet another battle in the war between Targaryens and Hightowers. I know where I stand. I'll do everything I can to make sure Luke and Baella ascend."
"So will I," Elaena said softly, looking to the side as Alicent stared at the two of them. Elaena slowly let go of Rhaenys' hand to join her husband and children.
Daemon instinctively wrapped his arm around her waist, pulling her close to him for protection. It was such a simple and normal act that neither of them hardly noticed he had done it, and they wouldn't have at all if it weren't for the stares they received by the Hightowers. Such open affection and love wasn't common in their family as it was in Elaena's, it was something strange and foreign to them.
If they hadn't all proved themselves to be hateful people, Elaena would have felt bad for them. But because they were who they were, she didn't. She only turned to Daemon, speaking quietly with him as they all waited for Rhaenyra to make her appearance. Once she was there the hand of the King, Gwayne Hightower, stepped towards the iron throne. Every voice fell into a quiet hush as he turned to face them all, speaking loud and clear.
"Though it is of great hope within this court that Lord Corlys Velaryon survive his wounds, we gather here with the grim task of dealing with the succession of Driftmark," Gwayne started, his voice echoing loudly in the large throne room.
Elaena's eyes narrowed on him as he sat down on the iron throne, noticing that he seemed all too comfortable on it, just like his father had been. Though this was one of the first times she would be meeting him, she already felt a hatred for him in her heart. After all, he was the son of the man who killed her mother, and the brother of the woman who killed her daughter.
"As Hand I speak with the King's voice on this, and all other matters...The crown will now hear the petitions of Ser Vaemond of House Velaryon."
Small murmurs of other lords and ladies of the court started up as Corlys' brother stepped forward, a smug look on his face. "My Queen, My Lord Hand. The history of our noble houses extends beyond the histories of The Seven Kingdoms to the days of Old Valyria. For as long as House Targaryen has ruled the skies, House Velaryon has ruled the Seas."
Every voice quieted in the hall as he spoke, listening closely to his petition.
"When the doom fell on Valyria our houses became the last of their kind. Our forebearers came to this new land knowing that if they were to fail, it would mean the end to their bloodlines and name," Vaemond continued, looking to Rhaenyra and her sons now. "I have spent my entire life on Driftmark defending my brother's seat. I am Lord Corlys' closest kin, his own blood. The true unimpeachable blood of House Velaryon runs through my veins."
"As it does in my son's, the son of Laenor Velaryon, who was the son of Lord Corlys," Rhaenyra started, her voice cold as ice. "If you cared so much about your house's blood, Ser Vaemond, you would not be so bold as to supplant its rightful heir."
"I agree," Elaena said strongly, nodding at her sister's words. "I feel as though you only speak for yourself and your own ambition, Ser Vaemond."
"What do you know of Velaryon blood, Princess?" Vaemond asked, turning to Elaena with a pompous smile. "This matter is about the future and survival of my house, not yours."
The doors to the throne room opened loudly, banging on the stone walls for all to hear. Everyone turned around to see King Viserys walking alone, using only his cane to help him move.
"King Viserys of House Targaryen, the First of his Name, King of the Andals, and the Rhoynar, and the First Men. Lord of the Seven Kingdoms and Protector of the Realm."
Elaena's jaw dropped a bit as she saw him walk, steady and determined in his movements as he made his way towards the throne. When her eyes flitted to Alicent, Gwayne, then Vaemond, she saw that they were all as shocked as she. But her shock was one of joy, a gratefulness to the gods that he had arrived to deliver his own judgement. Her opposers seemed disappointed and angry that they would not be the ones to do this.
"I will sit the throne today," Viserys said once he reached where Gwayne Hightower stood.
"Your Grace," the man responded, bowing his head once before moving to stand behind his sister.
As Viserys walked forward, Elaena saw him stumble a little. Rhaena didn't hesitate in running forward, catching him before he fell. Daemon walked forward as well, the both of them assisting him up the stairs to the throne. Elaena felt tears well in her eyes as she watched this, knowing that her daughter and Viserys had always had a strong bond between them.
His crown fell off the top of his head, clattering on the ground before him. Rhaena immediately picked it up, then returned her arms to his to help him sit in the chair. As the King sat panting on the throne, Rhaena stood before him, slowly lowering the crown onto his head.
"Rhaena," he breathed out, a small smile on his face. "Is that you, my dear?"
"Yes, grandsire," Rhaena said softly, smiling through her tears. "It's me."
His hand reached for her own, gently holding it as he tried to catch his breath.
Her smile faded as she spoke, her sadness taking over any other emotion, "You told me last we met that you weren't sick anymore. That you were better."
Viserys' heart broke at these words, his lip trembling as he looked upon her. But rather than respond to these words, he only said the following, "I'm glad to see your face again, sweet girl. I've missed it."
The two shared one last moment with each other before Daemon escorted her down the stairs, knowing that if he didn't the two would both likely start crying. Viserys watched as she walked away, then turned to the rest of the court, allowing for the petitions to continue over the throne.
"I must...admit...my confusion," Viserys breathed, "I do not understand...why petitions are being heard...over a settled succession. The only one present...who might offer keener insight into Lord Corlys' wishes... is the Princess Rhaenys."
"Indeed, Your Grace," Rhaenys responded, walking forwards so that she may speak to him more clearly. "It was ever my husband's will that Driftmark pass through Ser Laenor to his trueborn son Lucerys Velaryon. His mind never changed, never did my support of him. As a matter of fact, the Princess Rhaenyra and I have recently agreed to marry her son Luke to Lord Corly's granddaughter, Baella."
"Well..." Viserys continued, nodding in aggreement. "The matter is settled...I cannot think of a better pairing to one day rule the Driftwood throne...So I hereby affirm Prince Lucerys of House Velaryon... as heir to Driftmark, the Driftwood Throne, and the next Lord of the Tides."
Before anyone could celebrate this news in the slightest way, Vaemond stepped forward, scoffing loudly for all to hear. "You break law and centuries of tradition to install your daughter as heir. Yet you dare tell me who deserves to inherit the name Velaryon...I will not allow it."
"Allow it?" Viserys asked breathlessly, "Do not forget yourself, Vaemond."
Vaemond stood tall, seething in silence for a moment as he stared at Viserys. He then turned to Luke, his voice raised to the loudest volume, "That is no true Velaryon, and certainly no nephew of mine."
"Lucerys is my trueborn grandson," Viserys refuted, "And you are no more than the second son of Driftmark."
"You may run your house as you see fit," Vaemond spat, shaking his head as he looked at Luke, "But you will not decide the future of mine. Gods be damned that I let the throne pass to a-"
"Say it," Elaena said viciously, stepping in front of her nephew protectively. "I dare you."
"Rhaenyra's children...are bastards!" he shouted at Elaena, the vile term echoing in the hall around them. "And she is a whore."
"I'll have your tongue for this!" Viserys yelled weakly, standing from his throne to unsheath his blade.
"Daemon-" Elaena said quickly, turning to her husband. But he already had Blackfyre drawn back, and swung it a mere second after words so fast that when she turned around she saw Vaemond's head on the floor beside his body.
"You can keep your tongue," Daemon said coldly, true hatred in his eyes.
Elaena's eyes widened as she quickly moved to shield her daughter from seeing this, but when she saw Rhaena's face she could see that her young girl wasn't fazed.
Rhaena instead seemed as if she approved of this, as if the man got what he deserved for slandering her aunt and cousins. Elaena turned around to see Daemon surrounded by King's guards, all of them trying to disarm him. But he only took a step back, cleaning the edge of his blade as he returned to Elaena's side.
Viserys panted as he fell back into his chair, moaning in pain and distress. Both Alicent and Rhaenyra flocked to his side to check on him, while everyone else watched as blood started to pool around Vaemond's headless neck. Elaena quickly moved towards Jace, Luke, and Joff, drawing their attention to herself rather than the would-be-usurper's body.
"Are you three alright?" she asked seriously, looking at each of them for confirmation.
"Yes, Aunt Elaena," Jace nodded, but his face still seemed shocked.
Joffrey, a young boy of only eight, walked towards her, clinging to her leg for comfort.
"It's alright Joffrey," she exhaled, kneeling to the floor to hug him. "Everything's going to be alright."
Author's Note: I hope you all enjoyed reading! I'm so excited to have everyone aged up into adults and to continue delving into this story!
And before you all say anything, in the terms of the show I absolutely adore Helaena. She is my little neurodivergent queen and I support her fully lol, but for the sake of this story I need to alter the perception around her. So bear with me as I make her not-so-likeable in this book.
As always, I'd love to know what you all think of this chapter and the featured characters. Is there anyone you'd like to see more of? Or maybe less of? Don't hesitate to let me know your ideas. Until next time! -J❤️