King's Landind – 300 AC
Jonothor Targaryen, known as Jon to his wife Rhaenys, was having a nightmare about the Long Night and the Night King. In his dream, he vividly recalled the chaos and horror of the War for the Dawn beyond the Wall. He could see the cold, ice monsters that they faced, and remembered how they needed six fully grown dragons just to keep them at bay. Even then, it was not enough.
As the nightmare reached its climax, Jonothor suddenly woke up, gasping and sweating. His sudden movements startled Rhaenys awake, and she immediately turned to comfort him. He held onto her tightly, grateful for her presence in his life, feeling her warmth and comfort as he tried to shake off the memory of the nightmare.
As he caught his breath, Jonothor began to recount the details of his nightmare to Rhaenys. He spoke of the overwhelming numbers of the ice monsters, and how they seemed almost unstoppable. He remembered the fear and desperation that he had felt during the War for the Dawn, and the relief that had washed over him when it was finally over.
Rhaenys listened to Jonothor's words, offering words of comfort and understanding. She knew how difficult it was for him, for al lof them really, to relive those memories, and she was grateful that he trusted her enough to share them with her.
As they lay in bed together, Jonothor felt his heart rate returning to normal, and he gradually began to relax. He knew that he was safe with Rhaenys by his side, and that together, they could face whatever challenges lay ahead.
"I feel so bad for doing this to you, but we have a Small Council meeting to get ready for," Rhaenys whispered to her husband, as sunlight began to slip through the courtains.
"No, I understand," Jon kissed her forehead gently. "Let's get up."
They did that, and after a short bath, they got ready and broke their fast, before heading for the Small Council chambers.
The newly formed Small Council was gathering in the grand chamber of the Red Keep, their focus set on the preparations for the upcoming coronation. The previous king, Rhaegar Targaryen, had been injured during the Long Night, although not gravely. Nonetheless, it was deemed best for him to lead a life with less stress, which led to his decision to pass down the crown to his daughter, Rhaenys Targaryen, the future Queen of Westeros, and her husband, Jonothor Targaryen, the King Consort of the Realm.
As the members of the Small Council settled into their seats, the Hand of the King, Sansa Bolton, nee Stark, took charge of the meeting. Sansa, known for her keen political acumen, even at such a young age, began by outlining the agenda and discussing the various tasks that needed to be accomplished before the coronation could take place. With her strong speech she showed why Lady Ollena Tyrell had recommended her for the position.
"My esteemed colleagues, thank you for joining me today," Sansa and Jon exchanged smiled. They were both nervous about their future duties, but they had each other's support. They were family after all. "We stand on the precipice of a new era for our kingdom. The coronation of Queen Rhaenys Targaryen and King Consort Jonothor Targaryen is a momentous occasion that requires meticulous planning and careful execution. I implore each of you to bring forth your expertise and dedication as we ensure a seamless transition of power. Let us work together to uphold the values of justice, prosperity, and unity that this realm so desperately needs."
Wendel Manderly, another northern that warmed Jon's heart, was the first to speake up. "Honorable council members, I present to you the financial aspect of the coronation preparations. We must exercise prudence in our expenditures, balancing the need for a memorable celebration with the responsible management of our treasury. I have compiled a detailed budget proposal that accounts for all necessary expenses. Rest assured, I will oversee the allocation of funds to guarantee a smooth coronation without burdening our kingdom's financial stability."
He might be new, but he had shown his expertise and wisdome well since the new Small Counsil has been formed. It was Wendel's expertise in managing the kingdom's wealth that made him an invaluable asset to the council.
"This is wonderful, thank you for your hard work," Crown Princess Rhaenyra smiled at the northern lord. "We all know how expensive some of the Targaryen traditions can be. A long week tourney after my coronation and banquests every night… we Targaryens know how to do extravagance!" The Small Counsil laughed at that, breaking some of the tension on the new group. "Master of Whispers, you are next."
If Jonothor was happy to see his cousin on the Small Counsil, there were no words for the relief Rhaenys felt at having Princess Sarella Martell ocuppy the position as Master of Whispers. She had shown everyone she was her father's daughter with her ruthlessness. Sarella's network of spies and informants, which she called her snakes, made her a valuable resource for the council's efforts to maintain stability.
"Noble council members, the security of our realm is of paramount importance, especially during such a significant event. My network of spies and informants has been diligently gathering intelligence to identify any potential threats to the coronation. I propose strengthening our intelligence efforts and tightening our security measures. By preemptively uncovering and neutralizing any dangers, we can ensure a safe and joyous occasion for all."
"Respected council members, I agree with the Master of Whispers, the safety of our future queen and king is our utmost concern. As Lord Commander of the Kingsguard, I assure you that we will spare no effort in protecting our monarchs during the coronation." When Barristan The Bold retired, having taken a great injury during the War for the Dawn, that left him unable to fight anymore, it was to no ones surprised thet Arthur Dawyne was his successor. Arthur's reputation as a skilled swordsman and his unwavering loyalty made him a trusted protector of the realm's rulers. "The Kingsguard will be strategically deployed, employing our years of training and unwavering loyalty to safeguard the royal family. We shall stand as a symbol of honor and guardianship, ensuring that this historic event remains secure."
Of course, it was then that Garlan Tyrell had to speak up. "Distinguished council members, maintaining order and security within King's Landing during the coronation is my primary responsibility. The City Watch will work tirelessly to ensure the safety of our citizens and guests, preventing any disturbances or threats to the festivities. We shall collaborate closely with the Kingsguard, bolstering our forces and maintaining constant vigilance. Let us create an atmosphere of peace and celebration, free from any disruptions."
"That is a great idea!" Prince Jonothor praised the Tyrell knight. "Princess Sarella, you shall also work with both Lord Commanders, your information shall be priceless for them."
"It shall be done, Your Highness," Sarella bowed her head with a smile.
"Lord Monterys, how is everything faring?" Rhaenys turned to the Master of Ships, one of the two remaining members of her father's Small Counsil.
"Your Highness, to ensure the smooth transportation of guests and supplies for the coronation, we must fortify our harbors, coordinate the fleet's movements, and guarantee the safe arrival of dignitaries from far and wide. I pledge to execute these tasks efficiently, utilizing the strength of our navy to protect our coasts and maintain the seamless flow of goods and people." Lord Monterys informed them.
"We should also make sure that the coronation must be conducted within the bounds of our legal framework," Lord Stannis Baratheon, the other remaining member of the old counsil and the Master of Laws, added. If there's one thing you can trust about him, is Stannis's commitment to justice and his unwavering adherence to the rule of law made him a trusted advisor on matters of governance. "I shall personally oversee the adherence to established protocols, ensuring that all proceedings align with the laws of our realm. Justice and fairness shall guide our actions, safeguarding the integrity of the coronation and the stability of our kingdom. I have already procured Queen Rhaenyra's Crown."
"That's wonderful," Rhaenys smiled warmly at the lord. Oh, how she had wished to wear that crown one day, and son her dreams will come true. She will be queen and Jon will stand beside her as his King Consort, as she is crown with that marvel of a crown. "Grand Healer?"
Rhaenys turned to her husband's best friend and smiled with pride at what she saw. At the beginning, poor Sam Tarly was sent to the Tessarion Academy because his father was ashamed of him and wanted him away from home, as he trained his younger brother as heir. Randyll Tarly had planned to force Samuel to enlist for the Wall when he was old enough. The stupid man did not expect his cowardly son to befriend the Prince and future King Consort of Westeros. He got another thing comming, when Jon made sure Randyll knew what he thought of him and that if he ever tried to name his younger son as heir, House Targeryen will name him and his son usurpers. That did not sit well with the "honourable" knight. He never learned to be proud of his son, not even now that Samuel was a confident young man and member of the Small Counsil. Just because Samuel prefers books to swords, you can only earn his pride by being a knight.
Oh, well, his loss is House Targaryen's win. After all, it was Samuel Tarly who had become the youngest healer in over a century in Westeros and managed the miracle of treating Grey Scale. Which had House Targaryen's eternal gratitude.
"Honored council members, the well-being of our people is a crucial aspect of the coronation preparations. My fellow healers and I have devised a comprehensive medical plan to address any injuries or illnesses that may arise. We shall establish medical stations throughout the city, ready to
provide aid and care to those in need. Our primary goal is to ensure the health and welfare of all attendees, allowing them to partake in this momentous occasion without concern." In his speech, he showed who he truly was. A caring and amazing young man, who Jon was so proud to call his friend.
"My esteemed council members, thank you for your unwavering support during this transition. As the future queen of Westeros, I am humbled by the responsibility entrusted to me. I vow to lead with compassion, strength, and a commitment to justice. The coronation is not only a celebration but a unifying event for our realm. Let us forge ahead, hand in hand, in pursuit of a brighter future for our people." Rhaenys spoke to theh council, making everyone straighten up in pride and duty.
Not being that far behind, Jon added to his wife's speech. "Honorable members of the council, I stand beside my wife, Rhaenys, in this momentous journey. Together, we will bring stability and prosperity to our kingdom. I pledge my unwavering loyalty and support to Queen Rhaenys, and I am committed to fulfilling my role as King Consort with dignity and honor. Let us work together, united in purpose, to ensure a smooth coronation and the beginning of a new era for Westeros."
As the meeting progressed, each member of the Small Council contributed their expertise and insights, collaborating to ensure that the coronation would be a momentous and secure event. With their combined efforts, they aimed to create a smooth transition of power.
Some moons later, in a grand and wonderful event, Rhaenys stood upon her people, wearing the Dragon Queen's crown, and was named Queen of Westeros. The Queen that Was and the Promised Prince will go down in history to be just as great as Rhaenyra and Qoren. They had saved the world and brought an end to the Night King, it had been Arrax's dragonfire and Jon running the Night King with Dark Sister that did it, as Ghost held into the monster, giving his partners the time they needed. However, it was Rhaenys the one that had to take control of their army after their father had gotten hurt. It was a teamwork achievement. The same way Rhaenyra and Qoren worked hand in hand for the betterness of Westeros.
One day, their daughter Alysanne Targaryen will succeed them, inheriting her namesake's dragon, and become a great queen.
But that's for the future to come. For now…
Long Live the Queen that Was and the Promised Prince!
Long may they reign!