Ch 4: Rhaenyra
Viserys decided to break his fast in the library early this morn.
He had not left the room since he found himself here in the early hours with the commander. Though there was a guard change between then and now.
He found himself lingering on several of the tombs that graced the library. Specifically the journals of Jaehaerys I Targaryen, the Conciliator and his wife Alysanne, the good queen she was often referred to. For hours he read, though the words proved enlightening they often caused his mind to stray.
A maid had already brought some food up to him but he had yet to take so much as a sip of water.
He had asked his guard to collect Rhaenyra so that she may join him in breaking their fast.
He had considered waiting until the sun had set more in the sky. But he believed that this conversation could not wait any longer. He needed to see his daughter and reassure her or at least provide her with the comfort of a father. A role he realized he had been sorely lacking as of late.
A soft knock was placed on the door before Rhaenyra entered. She nor the guard announced her presence. There was no need since he had expected her.
Her hair was more loose today with only half of it done up in a simple braid. She wore a simple gold dress with less adornment than the one she wore previously. It was unclear to him if she chose it simply due to the fast haste she dressed or if she chose it on purpose since in a way it better reflected her age and innocence.
"Come sit," he said with not only encouragement but also enthusiasm. "I would like for you to break your fast with me here this morn."
Stiffly and without so much as a change in her facial expression she silently headed his words and sat not opposite but next to him at the table.
The scrapping of the chair was lough against the silence.
"Are you well?" He didn't begrudge her question. He knew as of late his health was not what it once was. And with the events of the previous day, his complexion has taken a downfall.
"Sleep evaded me last night. I pray it was better for you." Despite his lack of sleep, she did not seem to fair the same. Her complexion was as always flawless.
"I slept well," she said before nibbling on the plate of cheese and baked goods.
Her nervousness shone through. Despite the confidence, she exhibited the previous day. She was clearly aware that despite the demands she made the previous day she was still aware that he was King and well within his right to deny her. His word was law after all. He could see her eyes fill with disappointment even before he opened his mouth. Was his daughter truly so used to him denying her that she didn't even consider the possibility he would agree with her?
He found himself hesitant to start despite preparing for what he wished to say. "You were right that I would never agree to allow you and Daemon to wed." Her head was downcast and she avoided to look him in the eye. He saw the sadness in her eyes the moment the words left his mount. He quickly grasped her hand in fear she would leave before he had a chance to finish. "But that was before I read your letters and considered your words."
Her head shot up quickly as she desperately searched for his eyes. "And though I am not thrilled over the prospect of the two of you together. As well as how I still consider him unfit for such a position. I will consider the possibility of a match."
Despite her composed and stiff posture, she sighed in relief. "Thank you, Father."
"Once Daemon has returned from the stepstones I will allow the two of you to enter into a six-month courtship. If you still wish to move forward with a betrothal I will give my blessing. Nor will I go back on my word and refute a marriage." Though he was hesitant about the idea of his brother and daughter together, he would allow the two of them the opportunity to either prove him wrong or abide his fears. As his daughter's eyes lit up in happiness for the first time in many years. He became pleased with his decision.
"I have other terms in regard to this matter. However, they are more negotiable. "If a marriage is in the future." He said if, however, he had a feeling his daughter would get her way. "I find myself agreeable to the prospect of a Valyrion wedding. However, due to the secrecy surrounding our way and the laws against outsiders. I still seek to have you married underneath the eyes of the seven as well." Though he would love the chance to witness the ancient and sacred rite. He knew such things would not be deemed as valid to the Maesters of the Citadel. He wanted to ensure that her actions could not be questioned.
Rhaenyra did not seem to be put out by the idea. Which pleased him greatly. "I agree to it." she leaned forward in her chair. Though she did not yet attempt to move her hand. Instead, she grasped it soundly on her own. "I also ask that regardless of the outcome of our courtship that you still demolish Daemon's marriage. He is unhappy regardless and has been asking for an annulment for as long as I can remember. Please give him at least this much."
He had all of the intentions to do. But to hear how strongly she fought for Daemon's happiness. Viserys could not help but simply be amazed once again by the woman his daughter has grown to be. "I will write a letter shortly."
"Thank you, Father," she said with a beaming smile.
He found that the silence encased them. He was pleased that he had given the direction to his guards not to allow anyone including his hand to disturb them. This was the first moment of peace he has had with his daughter in a long time. And it seemed not only was there much to catch up. There was much more that needed to be discussed. "I admit your letters also gave me much more to think upon."
She looked at him with inquiry on her lips. It seemed that by having him read her personal conversations with Daemon she had no intention for him to find out anything more.
"I implore you to know that you have no reason to fear being disinherited. You are my heir and as such will one day be queen. I will never disinherit you. You have my word," he said with the strength of the dragon. And only after seeing her nod in acceptance did he continue. "You will make a wonderful queen one day. And in the meantime. I would love to hear your ideas."
He sighed wearily before giving his daughter a small smile. "I fear you have been much too alone these past few years. However, I was unaware of just how much. I wish to correct this. Not only with my own company. But that way you may find yourself in the company of others." What he wished to speak of next wasn't a stipulation however a suggestion he hoped she would head.
"I would also like for you to take on some ladies in waiting. It is about time for you to have your own court." It was unseemly that she had gone so many years without one. Ladies in waiting were essential to not only her livelihood but also to have those she can call upon to oversee several of the tasks she will need to delegate. "I would like for you to choose as many as you would like and I will have ravens sent as soon as possible." He wanted her to know that she was his priority. And that he was trying to put in the effort.
"Of course, may I have seven days."
He chuckled at her enthusiasm. "Yes, of course, take as long as you need to." he noticed her pensive gaze. And inquired, "Do you have any in mind?"
"Laena Valeyian. She is my cousin after all and it may start to bend the broken bonds we have with the Valyrian." She said with swiftness and decisiveness."
"Good. Who else?"
"Perhaps someone from the North. I know that Lord Stark has a daughter. But she is a Snow and that might offend the people at court." She said while biting her lip. It was clear she was still unsure. He gave her a nod of encouragement to continue. He had after all sprung such an idea on her. Though her mind seemed to be spinning in circles. "Does Lord Strong have any daughters?"
"Yes, he has two." Lord Strong had been a very loyal member of his council and had always given sound advice. He only hoped that his daughters could do the same.
"Would it be wrong for me to pick both of them?" It was the first time since they have renewed communication that she seemed to be asking for his advice.
"Not at all. You can surround yourself with as many ladies as you would like." He had a feeling she would excel at making political connections with many different and diverse houses. He found himself excited not only who she chose, but also to see the glimpse of the promise of a great queen she would one day make.
"I also implore you to know that you have every right to visit your brother," Viserys said, growing serious once more. "I never commanded anyone to keep the two of you apart. Nor have I expressed any wishes for you to be spied upon. On this, I swear. I will ensure that these shall never be a topic of discussion again. I will be discussing this with Otto as well to figure out how this came to be." He tried not to allow his anger to shine through. But the small smile that grew on Rhaenyra's face indicated his failure.
"Is there anything else you wish of me?" She asked once again, becoming poised.
"I have realized how little I have done in preparing you for your future role." the song of fire and ice rang throughout his head. He once believed that a Son would bring about the promise. But now he was sure that it is Rhaenyra whose line the prophecy will be born from. "Come next council meeting I would like for you to take a seat by my side as my heir."
Her eyes lit up once more. "I look forward to it."
She began to eat with renewed vigor. And he found his own strength returning to him.
For the past year, he had found his hunger had lessened as well as his physical strength. He was not yet past his 40th name day and yet he could feel aches within his bones. Not to mention the cut that seemed to be littering his back from sitting on the Iron throne.
Though he would have to deal with his fraying health another day.
He had much he had to do it seemed. Being able to spend more time with Rhaenyra was a dream come true. But that would also cut into some of his more prominent ideas.
He had given Rhaenyra his word and had to get started on absolving Daemon's marriage to Lady Rhea Royce. Under non-consummation the marriage can easily be annulled. And he didn't doubt that Lady Royce would willingly sign the paper.
He would also need to send a letter to his cousin Rhaenys as well. His eyes have been open wide these past two days and there is much he is still contemplating. He would require the assistance of not only family but also from someone who understood and had a natural grace when it came to politics. It hasn't escaped him that his daughter has been lacking in a mother figure these past years. And with talks of future marriages, she was in desperate need of one.
Next, he would need to hold a council meeting. Have Rhaenyra take her rightful place at the council as his heir and not just as a cupbearer. Perhaps consider even making some more changes to the council as well.
He would also need to seek out Aegon's maid and inform them that Rhaenyra was allowed to see her brother any time she desired. Perhaps have him accompany Rhaenyra when she first spends some time with him. He would need to remind himself to bring it up over dinner. If only he could ensure that Rhaenyra would join him and Alicient for dinner.
He knew that if he wanted to bring glory to house Targaryen he should take up another dragon. After the death of his Baelon, he feared the loss of such a bond again. But he is the head of the house and should consider claiming a dragon once more. Perhaps not now. No, the dragon was just awakening inside of him. He was not yet ready to claim it.
Ch 5: Call the Ravens
Viserys was seated in the small council room. The chamber contained a long table. Which he was seated at the end of. The chamber was richly furnished with a Myrish carpet, a carved screen from the Summer Isles, and tapestries from Lys, Norvos, and Qohor. The chamber's door was flanked by two Valyrian sphinxes. And currently, it was being guarded by Commander Westeling.
He had asked his guard that he wished to be undisturbed. Especially from his hand. He hoped that Otto was busy with whatever he was doing these days and wouldn't come barging in for an audience. He had no time to deal with his musings. Nor did Viserys think he had the restraint to keep his temper in check. He wondered if the spies he had followed Rhaenyra had reported to him that the two of them had been meeting more as of late. the audacity of his once-called friend.
He had a quill in hand scribbling on a piece of parchment.
He needed to make a plan.
He started to scribble his ideas down. He wasn't sure if he would enact all of them. But he was well aware that things could no longer continue as they once were.
He realized now how foolish he had been in believing that everything was all and well within the realm. The war at the Stepstones was the first indication. But hearing how his daughter was affected by his own inactivity and passiveness was the driving sword.
It was fitting that he sat within the council's chambers.
The small council was made up of seven other lords other than the King himself. The hand of the King, his chief advisor. Otto Hightower held this distinction, however, he wasn't sure how long that would remain true. The Grande Maester served as a representative for the Citadel. There was Master of Coin taken by Lyman Beesbury. And Lyonel Strong was Master of Law. The role of the Master of ships was upheld by Tyland Lannister. And Larys Strong was the Master of whispers. There was also a seat for Lord Commander of the Kingsguard Harrold Westeling.
The men who sit at this table have served him faithfully over the years.
But if he was just being made aware of several severe matters going on not only with his daughter but also with his hand and his brother. Perhaps changes should be made.
He was considering expanding the roles of the small council. There were several holes in his opinion. And he valued various advisors.
The Grande Maester did not just serve the seven, he also served as a form of governance. But that also included education as well as healing. That was too many tasks for one man. Perhaps he should consider dividing the role. The Grande Maester could strictly be involved with healing and governance. While a separate role could be given to education. Not only with the education of the houses in power but also with helping the common folk as well.
He was initially concerned with Rhaenyra's education from her septa but perhaps this was not just an isolated incident. Much of the education is given by those who follow the Seven. But perhaps an unbiased teaching method would be more beneficial not only for his daughter but also for the people of the realm.
The Master of Whispers spoke of those who engage in treason but when war is upon them there is no leader. No one person to help rally the lords of the seven kingdoms and call their bannerman to arms.
Daemon and Corlys Valyrian took it upon themselves to lead the war on the Stepstones. Even against his wishes to remain ignorant and in peace. He had forgotten that war was inevitable. And thus should be prepared for such. He thought he was living in a time of peace and prosperity. He had been compliant to the will of the lords around him. When instead he should have been making his reign great. He should have been making progress in the lands of Westeros.
He had forgotten that he was a dragon. Instead, he acted as if he fish.
And as a dragon, he needed to decide what to do with Otto Hightower.
Otto Hightower was a second son and the younger brother of Lord Hobert Hightower. Ser Otto was named Hand of the King by King Jaehaerys I Targaryen, following the death of Prince Baelon Targaryen. And when Viserys was named King, Otto continued to remain the Hand of the king.
He was family through marriage.
He did not blame Alicent for undoubtedly following her father's orders. She has provided him with much comfort these past few years. Without Aemma he was lost. But as King, he had a duty to the realm and to house Targaryen. He did not love Alicent as he loved Aemma but she provided him with a friend he desperately needed.
He did not question the lack of propriety and the rumours that could have spread when she dressed in her mother's gown and entered his chambers unaccompanied at night. He was still lost in his grief and forgot himself.
But now he could see her actions for what they were. The actions of a man who converted power and wished to see his daughter as Queen consort.
She was just a puppet of her father's ambition.
And perhaps so was he.
He now realized he needed the advice of someone who never yielded to the opinions of other and who in their own right would have made an excellent queen. Perhaps a better ruler than even himself. Though he couldn't change the results of the Great Counsil. He knew he could still rely on the familiar ties shared between him and his cousin.
It had been some time since he had spoken in Valyrian let alone written in his ancestor's language. But the need for secrecy was too great now.
He scrawled in a simple script on a separate piece of parchment.
Dear Cousin,
I wish time and insults did not part us and yet they do. I wish at your earliest convenience to fly to King's Landing. For I wish to seek the counsel of my favourite cousin.
I long for the talks we once engaged in.
Perhaps your daughter and mine may experience such joy as well.
I believe it is time for amends to be made.
Viserys.
He hoped that his cousin could aid him in deciding what to do with his Hand. But he knew in his heart only one person would give him sound advice.
For years his brother spoke of how his Hand was a serpent whispering in his ear. How he throught the Targaryen house and attempted to supplant their power. How he has attempted to divide the family and implement himself into Viserys' council. How he commanded the power of the king as if he himself was king. His brother could see the truth of it.
While he was blinded.
For his entire reign Viserys was under the impression that Otto was doing an excellent job as Hand. But recent revelations have caused him to ponder the past.
It was Otto who pushed for him to name an official heir. And was the one who suggested Rhaenyra be named heir. At the time he was in full support of his daughter. But he also encouraged Viserys to name her to throuat his brother from being King. Now he questioned what his true intentions were.
He was the one to first deny the threat the Triarchy posed to the Stepstones and its trade. If his memory served him well he was the one who insisted he have a tourney for his new heir and hopeful son. Before the day had turned into a tragedy.
When Daemon was commander of the City Watch he was too violent. That his actions during raids were too excessive and that he cannot be allowed to act with such impunity. Every position Daemon upheld whether it be Commander or Master of Coin, Otto always found some flaw in his brother that was worthy of exile. Even though in some cases it was Otto's idea
When Daemon was Viserys's heir, Otto treated him as if he was below his station.
How could Viserys allow that to stand? Such words were borderline treasonous. And yet he turned a blind eye to each slur and insult. All in the name of peace and his brother's on instigation.
But now he learned the truth. Though that did not make the path infront of him any clearer. He yet had a discovery in regards to his Hand, a way to undo all of his mistakes.
But perhaps the opinion of others may help him solve this problem.
Dear Brother,
Much time has passed since we last spoke. In words of anger, we were parted. I wish that was not the case.
I find myself wishing for my family to be reunited and in good faith once again. On its way is a reinforcement of men and food so that your endeavour in this war may quicken in its success. I long for you to return to court once you have prevailed.
We have much to discuss.
After discussing with Princess Rhaenyra it has come to my attention that she wished the two of you to enter into a betrothal. I do not give my consent to this request. However, if when you come to Kingslanding you kneel before the court and swear fealty, not to me but to Rhaenyra as heir to the throne. Then you have my blessing to enter into a six-month courtship with the princess.
In good faith, I sent along with this letter proof of your annulment to the lady Rea Royce in the name of the king.
I pray to see you soon.
Viserys.