Sister's Keeper

Disclaimer: I do not own Game of Thrones


Chapter 112: A New Legacy

The following months have been overwhelming. Not from running a kingdom but from the pregnancy. When I ruled Meereen and the other Cities in the Bay of Dragons, I knew what I was doing in Westeros. My Small Council had played a significant part in keeping the peace and the relationship with the other Kingdoms. So it wasn't ruling the Six of the Seven Kingdoms that exhausted me.

No.

It was the pregnancy.

I know the early stages of my pregnancy were an emotional wreck with the stress of war and grief that I could not tell the symptoms. The Lys elixir had made my moon blood short and light to non-existing. Nausea and lack of eating. And the mood swings and grief clouded my mind. My belly didn't swell for those in their second trimester.

Many members of the court assumed I was having a little girl. The thought of a little girl excited me, as I already had a name in mind for her. Daenerys Rhaella. Jorah didn't mind the gender, as he approved when I told him of a girl's name. However, when it came to the boy's name, I mentioned Barristan. Jorah's response was with a grimace.

"Not our first son's name."

But after the coronation, the child began to grow. The new Grand Maester, who arrived weeks after the Coronation, named Gormon. Once Tyrell and the granduncle to Lord Willas. He informed me stress could have affected the baby's birth. But the growth will return when I remove the stress and have a proper diet. And it did. Followed by hunger and food aversions. Swelling, fatigue, headaches, swollen ankles, and constant use of the chamber pot.

Lady Elaine knows the feeling, as we bonded in a way. She even invited me to be there for the birth. It was shocking when Lord Willas limped his way when one of the squires informed him. He was by her side as Lady Elaine gave birth to their first child. A boy named Derek. The Heir of Highgarden. Seeing Elaine holding her son has me excited to hold my own.

Missandei was by my side as we walked through the garden. Months have passed, and I seriously can't wait to give birth. The past few weeks have been horrible in sleep, along with a slight non-violent coup that the Small Council made with Jorah's assistance. Well, not a coup, but out voted. I step back from my royal duties and prepare for the delivery. I know my Council means well, but it was a slight sting. Tyrion was running the kingdom with Jorah, and any that showed concerns or confirmed approval, then they will bring it up to me.

It doesn't help to ease my nerves that winter is still here. The War of the Five Kings still lingers on the populations in the Riverlands, the Stormlands, and the Crownlands. Followed by the North. The Reach and Dorne have been trying to provide produce, yet I fear it might not be enough. Fortunately, my connections throughout my travels have brought in favors, as have the Hosts who have taken the opportunity, especially those who did trade.

Especially a surprise visit from Magister Illyrio.

I have never thought I would see him again. The man who offered his hospitality as he fed and clothed my siblings and me. I will never forget how he helped me find Viserys a mistress so I would be free from his sexual advances most of the time. However, this is the man who suggested Khal Drogo be Daenerys's husband and arranged the marriage. Even though he tried to convince Viserys to let me stay in Pentos. I had a feeling that even if I remained in Pentos, the moment word came of Viserys's demised…Illyrio would focus on me in reclaiming the Iron throne if Rhaego didn't survive.

And yet, Illyrio did find my mother's crown.

"Magister Illyrio, it's good to see you again," I managed to say.

"It is good to see you as well," Magister Illyrio said with a smile.

Years have changed him. As more wrinkles covered his face, gray hairs, and a larger stomach.

"Ah yes, the years have not been kind to me," he mentioned.

"So, what brings you here?" I asked.

"I came to check on your majesty," he answered. "Although, I must congratulate you on becoming queen, your marriage, and your pregnancy."

"Thank you," I said.

Magister Illyrio smiled.

"Why are you truly here?" I asked. "Have you come to collect the debt you arranged with Viserys?"

Illyrio merely grinned, "Always observant."

"And what was the agreement?"

"I would like to trade with House Targaryen and other lords of Westeros."

"Done."

"I also hope to have a place here in court."

"Done."

"Your brother also promised me the position as Master of Coin."

I paused, surprised to hear this, "Is that so…."

"Yes," Illyrio confirmed.

I stared at him, "I have a Master of Coin right now."

Although, Lord Willas is temporary as he helps stabilize the Westorie economy. But I promised Lady Elaine I would not keep her husband for long. As she wishes for her son and future children to grow up in the Reach. Then I had an idea.

"However, his position is temporary. If he allows it, I might consider you his successor."

Magister Illyrio grinned.

"But you have to show your loyalty to Westeros."

His grin vanished. "And how may I do that?"

"Winter is here," I murmured. "I'm sure your orchards and fields can provide resources until Spring."

And just like that, I gained an old ally.

Many allies wanted trade while excluding docking fees. Tyrion and Willas came up with a permit that would allow a royal license. In order to secure their alliances, they must ask permission to renew them every three years. If they do not, then they will have to pay the docking fees.

Anyway, I was walking through the gardens with Missandei. So far, walking despite my ankles hurting alleviated the pain in my lower back and pelvic region. Grand Maester Gormon believes I can go into labor any day now.

"Word of advice, Missandei," I grumbled. "Don't get pregnant."

Missandei chuckled softly, "I don't believe that is possible for Grey Worm and me."

I nodded.

"Though, we might adopt when in Naath," She added. "There'll be children who have lost their parents."

I nodded again with a sad smile. I wished I could have done more to end slavery in Essos. All that I have managed was to stop one of the trade ports. There will be other Free Cities that still practice the slave trade. Even the Dothraki might return to their practices, despite Daenerys banning it. What remains of the Dothraki will have to be rebuilt from the ground up. So many had perished in the Great War. The long months and barely a hundred Dothraki decided to stay in Westeros while the remaining sailed back to Essos.

Kovarro, the last of the Bloodriders who has been there from the beginning, decided to return to Essos. He has been selected to be a Khal for one Khalasar. I wished him luck and provided him with a prized horse and treasures to start his leadership. It was sad to watch him go, but I know Westeros is not his home.

Sighing, then paused, feeling a strong kick.

"Seven Hells," I groaned, rubbing the upper part of my swollen belly. "

Missandei gave an amused grin, "Is the little one active?"

"Yes," I grumbled. "Grand Maester Gormon believes I'm due any day now."

"Are you nervous about the birth?" she asked.

"No," I answered. "I've been through worse pains."

Although, that is a lie. From the memories of the alter life of Alys Mormont and the struggles of delivering a stillborn, I know birthing will hurt. I remembered my mother's wails of agony when she gave birth to Daenerys. I remember when trying to deliver Rhaego and the pain Daenerys felt. Along with aiding many families throughout my years of travel. The birthing process will be painful and messy.

I'm thankful that Missandei will be here to help me through this. And not long ago, Quaithe offered her services to be in the delivery room. As the woman has experience in complicated pregnancies and warding off evil spirits. Since a pregnant woman is prone to dark spirits. And with the Red Keep's dark history, there is no doubt I'll need it.

But I'm also scared. I do not wish to see the Stranger again. Twice I've encountered death. One by the Warlocks of Qarth and the near-death after the Great War. I can't put Jorah or anyone through that again. Yet I am a product of incest. This could be my last birth, and I shall be barren, or I could bleed out from complications. Grand Maester Gormon assures me these nerves were normal, yet he says I'm in good hands and an army of midwives.

Missandei rubbed my back, sensing my agitation.

It doesn't help when court members whisper about my pregnancy and my survival. Who will be my heir? So far, Jon and Quentyn are my heirs. Jorah keeps assuring me all is well. That I will survive and live. Seriously, how does he know that?

I felt a sharp pain.

I gasped, clinging to Missandei. Unintentionally dug my nails into her shoulder. Missandei winced yet kept her hold on me. My womb clenched tightly as if claws were digging into the flesh and scratching down. There have been a few occasions when I felt this pain, thinking I was going into labor: false contractions and labor. However, this was real. I managed a false contraction…except this was not a false contraction.

"Your Grace?" Missandei whispered.

"I think…." I panted. "It's best we head back to Maegor's Holdfast."

Missandei nodded as she guided me back inside the Red Keep. I feel my baby is ready to be born either tonight or tomorrow.

After some time, we made it to Maegor's Holdfast, crossing the main door where Jorah and Tyrion were walking by. Jorah spotted how Missandei was helping me and rushed over.

"Is everything alright?" Jorah asked as he took custody of me.

"I think our little one will be born soon," I answered, breathing heavily.

"Are you sure?" Tyrion asked.

I groaned, feeling another contraction, "Yes…unless you want to see my water break."

Tyrion blushed, "I shall get Grand Maester Gormon."

We merely nodded as Missandei and Jorah guided me back to the Royal apartment. Once inside, Missandei helped me change into my chemise and robe while Jorah secured the fire to ensure the bedchamber was warm. Afterward, Jorah came over, giving comfort as he stood by my side and rubbed my back.

"Will you be here for the birth?" I asked.

"As you wish," he murmured.

Grand Maester Gormon came twenty minutes later with five midwives. A few servants came in with supplies and materials. The Midwives got the bed ready while Maester Gormon came over to us, as pacing helped alleviate the pain.

"How are you feeling, your grace?" the old maester asked.

"Exhausted and in pain," I answered.

"Has your water broken?" He asked.

I shook my head.

Grand Maester Gormon nodded, "Let's get you ready for the long journey ahead."

I groaned when hearing that.

The rest of the day and evening has been waiting for the birth. The only people allowed in the bedchambers have been Missandei, Quaithe, Grand Maester Gorman, the midwives, and Jorah. My husband was the messenger to give updates to the Small Council. More like Varys, Tyrion, Grey Worm, and Magister Illyrio waiting in the solar lounge.

It was the middle of the night when my water broke. To say I felt some relief is an understatement. It lasted an hour before the contractions came together. I was practically wailing and groaning for each contraction that went by. Grand Maester Gormon checked my dilation, telling me to wait on pushing even though the urges were there.

Time went by, and soon it was time. The contractions were too close, and I was in utter pain, feeling a downward push and stretching. The midwives insisted on the birthing chair. It was an eccentric contraption that I complied, sitting down as the robe was taken off and chemise lifted. Missandei was by my side, rubbing my upper back while the Maester sat on a stool in front of me. Meanwhile, Quaithe was walking around, chanting some sort of spell.

Jorah made his way over.

"Your Grace, I think it's best you leave," Grand Maester Gormon advised. "This is something a man should not see."

"I will not leave my wife," Jorah warned.

The older man sighed, muttering about Northerners.

I cried, feeling a contraction. They were getting closer, nearly by the minutes and not by the hour. Jorah instantly took my hand, to which I clenched desperately. Jorah winced yet kept hold.

"All right, on the next contraction, I want you to push," the Grand Maester instructed. "I'm going to count to ten, and I want you to keep pushing until I stop counting. "

I nodded.

On the next contraction, I pushed while squeezing both Missandei's and Jorah's hands. I cried, trying to push while Grand Maester Gormon counted to ten. When he reached the double digits, I stopped, panting.

"Good," the Maester said.

This went on for some time. For each contraction, I pushed, feeling the baby growing closer. I cried and screamed for each round, desperate for this to end. It hurt. It was worse than being stabbed or the recovery.

"Almost there," Grand Maester Gormon assured.

"You're doing great," Jorah murmured.

"Shut it," I spat, then cried when another contraction came.

I closed my eyes, pushing.

"The head is almost out."

Opening my eyes, I looked up to see Quaithe holding something as a few apparitions appeared. Standing there next to the masked woman was….my mother, Daenerys, and Visenya. My eyes watered, for I wanted them…and somehow Quaithe brought them. They glided over, invisible to the others.

"You're doing great," Daenerys assured.

"One push away," Visenya added. "You can do it. A new legacy. A fresh bloodline."

Rhaella cradles my cheek, "Just one more push, my golden dragon."

"One more push."

Squeezing Jorah's and Missandei's hands, I pushed with all my might and screamed from the top of my lungs. And just like that, all the weight rushed through my core with a gush. Grand Maester Gormon caught the baby and adjusted the newborn. There was a sound of crying…a baby crying. The Maester examined the baby and gave a smile.

"A nice and healthy baby boy, Your Grace." The older man announced.

I panted, smiling, looking at everyone though Rhaella, Daenerys, and Visenya were gone. Jorah was smiling as he kissed the top of my head. I reached out, wanting to hold my baby. The Grand Maester complied, handing him over. He continued to cry, his body covered in fluids and red. A bald-headed infant.

"My little dragon," I murmured.

Jorah took out his dagger and cut the umbilical cord before the Grand Maester could. One tradition from the North. As the father makes the first cut. Missandei took a rag and started wiping the sweat from my forehead.

"What shall you name him?" Missandei asked.

I paused, thinking about it. We already had a girl's name, but we were still struggling with the boy's name. We did not want a repeated name. For he should be the first from a Targaryen standpoint. Then I thought about the boy in my dreams and the Veil.

"Joren," I murmured. "Joren Jaehaerys…"

Jorah's blue eyes widen when hearing this. He contemplated the name and smiled softly. Joren is the first name of his Great Grandfather, and Jaehaerys after one of the greatest Targaryen kings.

After a moment, a midwife came over, suggesting we clean Joren off. I was hesitant, yet Missandei offered to hold and wash him. I nodded, handing the baby over as Missandei took him to the Midwives to wash him. I felt sore and in pain.

"Can I lay on the bed?" I asked.

"Of course, Your Grace," Grand Maester Gormon answered.

Jorah helped me up and guided me to the bed. Once on the bed, I watched the Midwives wash Joren, with Missandei and Quaithe observing and aiding.

"The afterbirth is something you don't want to see," Grand Maester Gormon advised. "Why not make the announcement to the Small Council?"

Jorah was hesitant, but I took his hand.

"I'll be fine," I assured him.

Jorah gave me a kiss before informing the Small Council.

"Now, I need you to relax," Grand Maester Gormon said as he placed his hand just above the pubic bone. "You'll feel some tugging. Let me know if it hurts."

I nodded. Slowly the Grand Maester pushed on my stomach while tugging on what remained of the umbilical cord. He pulled gently and steadily until the placenta was finally delivered. I moaned in relief as all the pressure I had been feeling was practically gone.

"Oh, the Seven," I breathed.

The Grand Maester chuckled as he removed the placenta and started cleaning my privates and doing any stitching. Once done, he left to ensure privacy but said he would be by later. The Midwives helped clean the bed and myself before laying back down with Joren in my arms. The Midwives showed me how to nurse, and his lips clamped around my nipple seeking milk.

I chuckled softly.

The Midwives giggled as well while they cleaned up the bedchambers.

Missandei sat down at the edge of the bed. "He's quite handsome."

"His face is squashed," I chuckled.

Missandei giggled, knowing that was true.

Quaithe made her way over "A Son of Ice and Fire."

I stared at her, confused.

"I had seen it." Quaithe explained. "Your son will be a great king when his time comes."

I stared at Joren with a smile.

"So he will be healthy?" I asked.

"He will, along with your other children." Quaithe answered. "As they and their children grow strong. Dragons with the blood of many houses."

To hear that there will be no incest in my descendants has brought peace. I feared someone in my bloodline would consummate with a sibling or aunt/uncle. To hear that will not happen has brought peace of mind. For I will make sure the practice of incest ends.

I focused on Joren as everyone else vanished. I don't know how long it has been. My train of thought was disrupted when someone sat down on the bed. I looked up to see Jorah smiling down at his son. A son. One to carry our name and bloodline. The first surviving child for both of us as we went through miscarriages with different spouses.

"Are you happy?" I asked.

"I am," Jorah answered, wrapping his arms around me and staring at our son.

Joren soon finished nursing and adjusted his face. He opens his eyes, revealing indigo eyes just like my own. No doubt this boy will be a mix between Jorah and me. He'll most likely look like his father when older and will have my eyes and hair.

Either way, I held onto hope.

As the sun was rising from the east.

.o0o.

It would be a month when I decided to break my confinement early to see the dragons. It should have been longer so I could recover, yet the dragons have been flying around Maegor's Holdfast and the Red Keep wanting to see the baby. I've barely had time for Viserion and felt guilty for neglecting my dragon. Therefore, it only seems right to introduce him to Joren.

Jorah walked beside me as we went to one of the courtyards where the dragons have resided since claiming King's Landing. The Small Council objected to exposing the newborn to the dragons. As Tyrion added:

"What if their breath suffocates the young prince?"

I doubt dragon's breath will suffocate anybody.

It's dragon's fire.

And with my bond with Viserion, I doubt the golden dragon would dare burn my son alive. Not after many months of ensuring I didn't harm myself and keeping threats away. I chuckled from a memory when I started eating more than expected, and Viserion noticed this. I was in the garden when a massive fish landed a few feet away. The Courtiers screamed in shock, not expecting it, as guts and scales splattered everywhere. At the same time, Viserion landed on the ledge with his pleased expression. I tried hard not to wretch, for the smell of fish was foul. But I managed a smile, thanking him.

We made it to the courtyard seeing Viserion and Drogon eating some cattle brought to them. The Unsullied were in position, ensuring no one approached the dragons for their safety. Viserion sensed my presence as he lifted his head up. I could sense his happiness to see me as he crawled his way over to the steps yet kept some distance, knowing the baby and I were in vulnerable states.

He lowered his head to get a better view of the prince.

"Viserion, I would like you to meet Joren." I introduced.

Joren's eyes opened as he stared at Viserion. Not at all afraid, just held a curious expression. Viserion lowered his head, sniffed the prince, and raised his head, giving what I would call a smile. He moved his neck and made a growl, gesturing for Drogon to come over.

The massive black dragon came over to look at the prince better. Those dark red eyes staring at Joren with intensity suddenly soften. Drogon lowered his head, getting a better look, and was so close to us that there was barely a foot. Joren gave a smile when staring at Drogon, raising his little hand. I adjusted them closer until Joren's hand touched Drogon's nose.

A bond has formed.

Joren will become Drogon's dragon rider.

I smiled happily and stared at Jorah.

Jorah gave his smile as well.

All was well.


And thus end the story of Sister's Keepers. All that remains is the epilogue. I want to thank you all for spending the last three years on this story. Along with thanking my Betas who have helped me. Thank you xXFallenSakuraXx52 and DesertMortician for editing and going over ideas for the story.

Thank you all. You have made this story fun to write with your support and suggestions.

Thank you, and please leave a review!

The epilogue will be up