―THE CAST―
• Douglass Booth as Prince Jaehaerys Targaryen: Eldest son of Aeonar Targaryen and Alicent Hightower and second-in-line to ascend the Iron Throne behind his father. A polite, well-spoken, and intelligent prince, he is devoted to his family and is popular at court for his keen diplomatic mind. Unlike his younger brothers, Jaehaerys is seen as the more mature and responsible one possessing leadership qualities that he remains unaware of. However, he has no tolerance for people abusing their position for personal gain or pleasure. He is best friends with his cousin, Jacaerys Velaryon. Like his family, Jaehaerys is a dragonrider claiming Vermithor, the Bronze Fury once ridden by King Jaehaerys I, as his own.
• Alexander James Rodriguez as a young Prince Jaehaerys Targaryen
• Will Payne as Prince Aegon (the Younger) Targaryen and Prince Viserys Targaryen: The twin sons of Aeonar Targaryen and Alicent Hightower, with Aegon being born minutes ahead of Viserys – making Aegon third and Viserys fourth-in-line for the Iron Throne. Being insufferable pranksters, both have a mischievous nature due to being identical twins. However, should the moment arise when someone threatens their family, they will not hesitate to get confrontational. Being dragonriders, Aegon's mount is Corxes while Maelyx belongs to Viserys.
• Joshua Pickering and Hector Bateman-Harden as a young Prince Aegon (the Younger) Targaryen and Prince Viserys Targaryen
• Indica Watson as Princess Aemma Targaryen: The only daughter of Aeonar Targaryen and Alicent Hightower. Named after her paternal grandmother, Aemma is a gentle, kind-hearted, sweet girl possessing her mother's charm and her father's intelligence. Although initially perceived as meek or weak-willed, beneath her great beauty lies the fire of a dragon should the opportunity arise when her loved ones are threatened. A dragonrider, Aemma rides the she-dragon Silverwing, originally belonging to Good Queen Alysanne.
• Caitlin Blackwood as a young Princess Aemma Targaryen
• Billy Barratt as Prince Daeron Targaryen: Youngest son of Aeonar Targaryen and Alicent Hightower, making him fifth-in-line to inherit the Iron Throne. Unlike his older brothers, Daeron is a hot-headed and quick-tempered prince with a "shoot first, ask questions later" approach and a no-nonsense demeanor. Although loyal to his father, mother, and brothers, Daeron possesses a fierce rivalry with his paternal uncle, Prince Aemond Targaryen. Like his family, Daeron is a dragonrider whose personal mount is Gaemon.
• Iain Armitage as a young Prince Daeron Targaryen
• Tom Glynn-Carney as Prince Aegon (the Elder) Targaryen: Son of King Viserys I Targaryen and his second wife, Queen Beatrice Peake – making him the younger half-brother of Aeonar and Rhaenyra. He is ninth-in-line for the Iron Throne behind his older half-brother and half-nephews. Although born with the Conqueror's name, he is described as lazy and indifferent to his responsibilities, exhibiting poor character and lacking leadership skills, preferring to drink and harass other women. A dragonrider, Aegon rides Sunfyre.
• Ty Tennant as a young Prince Aegon (the Elder) Targaryen
• Phia Saban as Princess Helaena Targaryen: Daughter of King Viserys I Targaryen and his second wife, Queen Beatrice Peake – making her the younger half-sister of Aeonar and Rhaenyra. She is considered quiet, socially withdrawn, eccentric, and peculiar, having an interest in bugs and at times speaking in cryptic language as well as displaying some clairvoyance, but has difficulty informing others of her visions. Despite her brothers' tense rivalry with their half-nephews, Helaena gets along well with Jaehaerys, Jacaerys, and Lucerys. A dragonrider, Helaena is bonded with the she-dragon Dreamfyre, though she barely rides her.
• Evie Allen as a young Princess Helaena Targaryen
• Ewan Mitchell as Prince Aemond Targaryen: Son of King Viserys I Targaryen and his second wife, Queen Beatrice Peake – making him the youngest half-brother of Aeonar and Rhaenyra. He is tenth-in-line to succeed to the Iron Throne behind his older half-brother, half-nephews, and older full-brother. Unlike Aegon (the Elder), Aemond is serious, driven, brave, petulant, and conniving. After a confrontation with his half-nephews, he becomes known as "Aemond One-Eye" and develops a fierce rivalry with Jaehaerys, Jace, and Luke. Although he had no dragon of his own, Aemond bonds with Vhagar after the death of Laena Velaryon.
• Leo Ashton as a young Prince Aemond Targaryen
• Harry Collett as Prince Jacaerys Velaryon: Rhaenyra Targaryen's eldest son. Per an agreement between his maternal grandfather King Viserys and Lord Corlys Velaryon, he is inducted as a member of the royal family upon his birth, making him sixth-in-line to ascend the Iron Throne behind his uncle, Aeonar, and his cousins Jaehaerys, Aegon (the Younger), Viserys, and Daeron. Jace is a good-natured and headstrong youth who wishes to be a successful, respected leader, though he is quick to anger. He is best friends with his cousin, Jaehaerys. Although presented as the legitimate son of Ser Laenor Velaryon and set to inherit Driftmark from his father, he is actually the bastard son of Ser Harwin Strong. Like his mother, Jace is a dragonrider whose mount is Vermax.
• Leo Hart as a young Prince Jacaerys Velaryon
• Elliot Grihault as Prince Lucerys Velaryon: Rhaenyra Targaryen's second son. Per an agreement between his maternal grandfather King Viserys and Lord Corlys Velaryon, he is inducted as a member of the royal family upon his birth, making him seventh-in-line to inherit the Iron Throne behind his uncle, Aeonar, his brother, and his cousins Jaehaerys, Aegon (the Younger), Viserys, and Daeron. Although having low self-worth and a poor opinion of himself, Luke does have brief moments of being bold and brave regarding his family. Although presented as the legitimate son of Ser Laenor Velaryon, he is actually the bastard son of Ser Harwin Strong. Like his mother and brother, Luke is a dragonrider whose mount is Arrax.
• Harvey Sadler as a young Prince Lucerys Velaryon
• (To be announced) as Prince Joffrey Velaryon: Rhaenyra Targaryen's third son. Per an agreement between his maternal grandfather King Viserys and Lord Corlys Velaryon, he is inducted as a member of the royal family upon his birth, making him eighth-in-line to succeed the Iron Throne behind his uncle, Aeonar, his older brothers, and his cousins Jaehaerys, Aegon (the Younger), Viserys, and Daeron. He is named after his legal father's deceased lover, Ser Joffrey Lonmouth. Although presented as the legitimate son of Ser Laenor Velaryon, he is actually the bastard son of Ser Harwin Strong. Like his mother, Joffrey is a dragonrider who is bonded with Tyraxes, though he is still too small to be ridden yet.
• Bethany Antonia as Lady Baela Targaryen: Daemon Targaryen and Laena Velaryon's eldest daughter. Named after her paternal grandfather, Prince Baelon. She is described as a tomboy – wild, fearless, tall, lean, and quick to anger like her father and prefers riding as well as hawking. After her mother's death, Baela meets and becomes close with her cousins. Being a dragonrider, Baela is bonded with Moondancer.
• Shani Smethurst as a young Lady Baela Targaryen
• Phoebe Campbell as Lady Rhaena Targaryen: Youngest daughter of Daemon Targaryen and Laena Velaryon. Named in honor of her maternal grandmother, Princess Rhaenys. Unlike her sister, Baela, Rhaena is described as slender, graceful, ladylike, and loves to dance, but feels unloved by her father. After her mother's death, Rhaena meets and becomes close with her cousins. Although she has a dragon egg, it never hatched.
• Eva Ossei-Gerning as a young Lady Rhaena Targaryen
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YEAR 122 AC
Red Keep ― Maegor's Holdfast…
Viserys coughed before clearing his throat. Six years had passed since Rhaenyra's wedding to Ser Laenor Velaryon, and since then the king's physical appearance had significantly deteriorated with his hair having been thinned out. Although the disease slowed down a bit and rendered Viserys to have to mostly rely on a cane to keep himself steady, he was still in good spirits. He continued constructing his modeling of Valyria's capital city which after six years expanded to cover much of the large room it is in, though it was slowly proving difficult for him to manage since his left arm was amputated. Viserys heard of phantom limb syndrome, but never thought it would happen to him of all people. With his left arm gone, he required more help from his assistant, Eddard. Ah, Seven hells… feels as if it's still there.
"Shall I fetch more shaping tools, Your Grace?" Eddard inquired.
Viserys shook his head. "No… no, Eddard. That will not be necessary," he sighed. "Can't keep putting this off for too long." Otherwise, dust will swallow this blasted model whole. Just… just got to at least get the Kararudirys finished before moving on to the next."
"As you wish, Your Grace."
"Now where did I put that damn, blasted little―"
As Viserys muttered, searching the counter for his scalpel before the door to his room opened. One of his servants, Maxwell, bowed his head upon entry. "Excuse me, Your Grace. But a visitor has come to see you," he said.
"Whoever it is, tell them I'm busy."
"Sorry, Your Grace, but… this one is one you need to see―"
"Grandpa!"
Viserys's ears perked at the sound of a child's excitement entering the room. The king turned his head at the familiar voice calling out to him. It was Jaehaerys, his first grandchild! The little prince was now nine years old, and by the gods, he was dressed as gallantly and dignified as befitting a child of his stature. Jaehaerys was considered tall and more handsome than most boys close to his age, with large purple eyes and shoulder-length silver-gold hair which was kept neatly groomed. "Oh, ho ho ho!" he smiled warmly. Viserys hugged his grandson tightly – with the boy reciprocating with as much warmth and affection as he could muster. "My word, Jay. You are getting so big. Look at you! A fine prince. Did you get the gift I sent you?"
Jaehaerys nodded. "Yeah, I did. Thank you, grandpa!" he gestured. In his arms, he carried a large book entitled Dragons, Wyrms, and Wyverns: Their Unnatural History by Septon Barth, a pious yet brilliant historian who served as Hand of the King to Jaehaerys the Conciliator. His grandfather spoiled him and gave him whatever he wanted; the boy only ever wanted books. Day in and day out, Jaehaerys spent his mornings reading and studying – with a particular passion for history, like his father and mother. He looked up at Viserys. "Oh! I almost forgot. I made you something." The prince held out both his hands to present a handmade model of Balerion the Black Dread. Judging by the cuts and bandages on his fingers, Viserys determined that his grandson crafted the model himself in exact detail. "Happy nameday, grandpa."
Viserys accepted the model and examined it carefully. "Oh goodness, a truly great artist must have made this," he said with a soft whistle. "It is, my boy, quite the likeness too." He gently placed the stone dragon at the top of the great spire. "You know, Balerion might have been the largest and fiercest dragon. But your great-grandfather was so brave he once smacked the Black Dread himself on the snout with just a stick," he said, gently booping Jaehaerys's nose for emphasis, getting a grin and a giggle from his grandson. "And how's your High Valyrian coming along? Been practicing?" he inquired.
"Mmhmm. Aegot Ērinȳ se zȳhom mandȳma Visenȳsa hāedromā Rhaenys soltan hae rōvēgrie azantyr se Blākuata Rāsho drāñot vilinio viārtis. (Aegon the Conqueror and his sisters Visenya and Rhaenys sailed with a great army and made landing at the mouth of the Blackwater Rush.)"
"Ah. Sȳz, sȳz. Ziry iksos jollōris sȳz, yn sylugon daor inditan aōla tolī botose. Shifang? (Good, good. It's good you've been studying, but try not to push yourself too hard. Understand?)"
"Kessa, sȳzkepa. Nyke daor. (Okay, grandpa. I won't.) Grandpa?"
"Yes, my grandson?"
"I know you're busy with making that model of yours and all, and I don't want to distract you from it, but… Mother told me that we're going to Dragonstone later this afternoon. She said father had something to show us. So… we thought you would be interested. Do you… want to come with us?"
"Oh, well, I don't know…"
"Please, grandpa?"
Viserys thought for a long moment; it had been some time since he traveled to Dragonstone, or anywhere by sea. The rocking of the ship along with the smell of fish and saltwater made him seasick. But as the king looked at the wide hopeful eyes of his first-born grandchild, he felt his opposition evaporate. "Just like your namesake, you are a keen negotiator, my boy… I'll go," he said as he ruffled Jaehaerys silver hair.
"Hehee!"
King's Landing ― Docks…
Holding his grandfather's remaining hand, the prince accompanied Viserys to the docks where the rest of the family was waiting.
King Viserys saw Alicent with the rest of her children, the twins Aegon and Viserys (6), Aemma (5), and Daeron (3) who fussed in his mother's arms. Aegon and his brother looked so identical it was difficult to tell them apart from one another, which the twins used to their advantage for their mischievous ways – much to Alicent's chagrin. Since Aemma's birth, she was named after her late paternal grandmother, Queen Aemma Arryn. The little princess inherited the classic Valyrian features: beautiful, straight mid-back length silver hair and bright violet eyes, yet she closely resembled her mother Alicent regarding her face. When their daughter was born, Aeonar held Aemma in his arms and doted on her. Daeron, however, was a complicated child. His birth was the most difficult compared to his elder siblings. Indeed, it was a long and troubled labor of great concern. Although Daeron was healthy, Alicent almost died giving birth and was bedridden for half a year.
As is customary for each of the Targaryen children, they were given dragon eggs placed in a burning brazier next to their cradles. And since then, the eggs hatched. Although they were small – measuring between 6-9 feet long – and still were not rideable yet, the dragonlings were the size of miniature horses. One had gold and bronze scales with pale cream wing membranes; he was given the name Corxes and was bonded with Aegon the Younger. The second possessed a dark shade of purple in its membranes with cobalt and cyan scales; his name was Maelyx, and he was bonded with Viserys. The third dragon, meanwhile, had pale yellow membranes with grey scales; given the name Gaemon, he was bonded with Daeron. Aemma's egg, however, like her eldest brother's, did not hatch – leaving her without a dragon as well. Corxes, Maelyx, and Gaemon shrieked high-pitched, growled, and nipped at each other.
Alicent looked at each of her children. "Sweetlings, go say hello to your grandfather," she instructed.
"Grandpa!" the children greeted.
"Hi, gampa," Aemma looked up at the king.
Viserys embraced each of his grandchildren, commenting on how each of them had grown since he last saw them. He made Aemma blush when he said that soon every knight in the realm would be seeking to crown her as the Queen of Love and Beauty. He kissed Alicent on her cheeks. "My dear child, you are a sight for my sore eyes to behold," he said with a smile, happy that Alicent did not flinch at his appearance. Viserys's skin had yellowed slightly and become dry and flaked. He had lost some weight and his hair was receding. Grand Maester Orwyle's oils and sulfate baths had helped to slow the progress of his disease, though it still ate away at him. He looked around hopefully. "Where's Aeonar?" he asked.
"He said not to wait for us, Your Grace, and went on ahead to Dragonstone," Alicent explained. "I don't know what he's up to, but he says it's important. Rhaenyra said she will be there as well. We've prepared a private room for you on the ship and provided plenty of accommodations in case you get seasick again."
"I… I appreciate it," Viserys groaned, already feeling the motion rocking him internally.
Daeron whined and fussed.
Viserys soon got onto the shop and accompanied his grandchildren and daughter-in-law to the island fortress of Dragonstone. Screeching as the ship set sail, the dragonlings Corxes, Maelyx, and Gaemon took to the skies in pursuit.
Dragonstone ― Beaches…
Stationed upon the island's rocky cliffs near the Dragonmont, dozens of Lykirī Mēre assassins were perched high up, crouched down, and leaned closer, narrowing their eyes for an eagle-eye view. "Koíta. (Look.)" one murmured in Old Ghiscari. "Hum teliká huna. (They're finally here.)"
"Bialfiel, mou 'akh. (Indeed, my brother.)" another replied stoically. "Al prínkipas yakun anaménontas hum. (The prince has been expecting them.)"
"Tha 'ana légo al kýrios? (Shall I tell the master?)"
"Bidun kathystérisi. Emméno alzilal. (Without delay. Stick to the shadows.)"
"Emméno alzilal. (Stick to the shadows.)"
Dragonstone ― Dragonmont…
Upon their arrival, they all disembarked and noticed Aeonar in the distance near the Dragonmont holding a torch in one hand. What's more, the assassins were with him too. Viserys gazed upon his oldest son and heir. Aeonar was now twenty-seven years old, grew to stand six feet four inches tall, and donned his black assassin's attire with a piece of breastplate armor underneath in the center of his chest engraved with a three-headed dragon with emerald rubies, a set of draconic pauldrons on his shoulders, graves on his shins, and draconic gauntlets on his hands. "I've been waiting for you," Aeonar stated.
"Sorry, father," Jaehaerys spoke softly. "Grandpa... doesn't like boat riding."
"Yes, I know."
The little prince turned and saw Rhaenyra. "Aunt Rhaenyra!" he waved.
Rhaenyra smiled and nodded her head in acknowledgment. "Nephew." Since her marriage, the princess appeared calmer, composed, and more mature, though she can be frank and decisive should the need arise. She wore glittering pearls and diamonds, and a decadent off-the-shoulder black dress with two red dragons stitched to the bodice of the garment, paying homage to her house. "I hope you're excited. Because your father has a special kind of surprise for you."
"Really? What is it?"
"You'll see. We cannot spoil such a surprise as this, do we?" Rhaenyra turned to her sons. "Jace, Luke. Come greet your cousins, aunt, and grandfather."
Behind her were two little boys, Princes Jacaerys (6) and Lucerys Velaryon (4). As per the agreement negotiated between House Targaryen and House Velaryon, they were inducted into the royal family's line of succession and granted the title of 'prince' upon their birth. However, despite being presented as the legal sons of Ser Laenor Velaryon, both Jace and Luke had brown hair, brown eyes, and a pug nose instead of House Targaryen's Valyrian features such as silver hair or purple eyes – leading to speculation amongst the royal court that they were bastards born out of wedlock. Despite the gossip, King Viserys loved his grandchildren equally and was quick to anger when anyone mocked his Velaryon grandsons, threatening to have their tongues pulled out with hot pincers if they so much uttered a wrong word in his presence.
"Jay," Jace rushed over.
"Jace," Jaehaerys greeted.
"You got gifts from grandpa too?"
"Yeah. What about you? The same?"
"Yeah, you should've seen it. It's an impressive sword… even if it's made of wood."
Rhaenyra and Alicent watched as their sons spent time with each other on the sandy shores of Dragonstone. For a fleeting moment, there seemed to be a slow rekindling of the friendship they once had. Indeed, when Daeron was born, Aeonar and Rhaenyra were panicking when they saw Alicent fall unconscious – fearing she would die the same way as their mother did ten years ago. When Alicent finally awoke, it was said Rhaenyra wept for hours, thanking the gods for sparing her best friend/sister-in-law's life and apologizing profusely for everything she had done and put her through during their childhood. Moved to tears, Alicent finally accepted Rhaenyra's apology, and their friendship was slowly rekindled over this bonding moment.
"It's nice to see the boys play together like this," Alicent noted.
"Indeed," Rhaenyra agreed. "It's moments like this that remind me of our youth. But Aegon and Viserys, though… ooh."
"They still get up to no good no matter how many times we discipline them. Personally? I blame you for encouraging their behavior."
"Hah. I have no idea what you're talking about, Alicent."
"By the Mother, whatever am I going to do with you…?"
As the two conversed amongst themselves, a team of six Dragonkeepers arrived. "Ziry iksos jēda. (It is time.)" they announced. "Umāzīt… se Zaldrīzesblēnon (Come… to the Dragonmont.)"
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Viserys, Alicent, and the children accompanied Aeonar inside the Dragonmont's cavernous entrance. Due to being a volcano, its hot and humid temperature served as a fitting location for a dragon's nesting area. At the foot of the volcano were villages bound to the castle Dragonstone which was a rich source of dragonglass. The cavern was dark, lit only by the torch in Aeonar's hand to show them the way forward.
"It's so hot in here…" Jaehaerys wiped his brow. "Father? Where are we going?"
Aeonar ignored them and began to sing to a melodic High Valyrian tune.
Drakari pykiros; Tikummo jemiros.
(Fire breather; Winged leader.)
Yn lantyz bartossa; Saelot vāedis.
(But two heads; to a third son.)
Hen ñuhā elēnī: perzyssy vestretis.
(From my voice: the fires have spoken.)
Se gēlȳn irūdaks.
(And the price has been paid.)
Ānogrose.
(With blood magic.)
Before long, everyone began to hear a distant growl accompanied by the thunderous sounds of approaching footsteps. Viserys felt the ground shake beneath his feet. He instinctively knew that there was something big and it was nearby.
Perzyro udrȳssi; Ezīmptos laehossi.
(With words of flame; With clear eyes.)
Hārossa letagon; Aōt vāedan.
(To bind the three; To you, I sing.)
Hae mērot gierūli: Se hāros bartossi.
(As one we gather; And with three heads.)
Prūmȳsa sōvīli.
(We shall fly as we were destined.)
Gevī dāerī.
(Beautifully, freely.)
In the dark gloom of the huge cavern, something moved. There was a growl, followed by a roar, and then suddenly the entire cavern was lit with dragon fire. Torrents of fire spewed from the mouth of a huge dragon, thankfully none of it was directed at the party who entered its layer. Instead, it was all aimed at the roof of the cavern. This was a common display when dragons wished to scare away intruders.
Alicent shielded the children with her body, and Viserys held up his hand to block the heat and light of the fire. Only Aeonar remained perfectly still, one hand clutching the torch and the other on Jaehaerys's shoulder to keep the prince from stepping backward.
Once the dragon had finished breathing the torrent of fire, it simply growled and approached the glowing light of the torch. When its face got closer, Viserys immediately recognized the dragon.
Vermithor… the Bronze Fury!
He had been famously remembered as the dragon of Viserys's grandfather, King Jaehaerys I Targaryen, the Old King whose great and prosperous reign lasted more than 60 years. A huge, fearsome beast with great tan wings, Vermithor was one of the powerful second-generation dragons hatched after Aegon's Conquest. After the Old King's death, the Bronze Fury – almost 100 years old – had made his lair in one of the smoking caverns on Dragonstone with his mate, Silverwing. Accustomed to men, he was tolerant of the presence of people whose fury – once bonded with a rider – was nearly unrivaled when threatened. And now, with his great eyes, the elder dragon stared at the party standing before him, his jaws opened to reveal the great maw of fangs.
Not too far behind Vermithor, Silverwing shrieked to her mate as she approached. Measuring 193 feet long with a 300-foot wingspan, she was another second-generation dragon once ridden by Queen Alysanne Targaryen. Like Vermithor, she was a powerful dragon with silvery scales and a few years shy of a hundred. Unlike her mate, however, Silverwing was considered relatively docile and friendly to strangers. As the Bronze Fury growled gutturally, she simply tilted her head sideways at the sight of these new visitors.
Jaehaerys froze at the sight of Vermithor. Measuring more than 200 feet in length with a 400-foot wingspan, Vermithor was one of the largest dragons in Westeros, second only to Vhagar. The prince knew his dragon egg didn't hatch and he was promised a dragon of his own to claim one day, but this… If it was a young dragonling or a small drake, then fine, but this was a much older, larger second-generation dragon. Much, much bigger! He backed away with two steps, stopping when he felt his father's hand pressing on his back.
"Do not be afraid. A dragon can sense fear if it believes them to be prey," Aeonar told his son and forced him to the front. "You are a Targaryen. The blood of Old Valyria runs through your veins. Show no fear, do not hesitate, and demonstrate your worth."
"M-Mother?" Jaehaerys called out anxiously. He hesitated, glancing back at his family and grandfather. Alicent could not get passed the Lykirī Mēre or Dragonkeepers out of concern for her son's safety, regardless of their reassurance that it was safe for the young prince and that it was a test he needed to pass. Okay. Okay, calm down now, Jay. Calm down. It is just a dragon… a very big one. You've been trained for this. It is like father and mother said. You can handle it! Raising a small hand up, he tried to steady his nerves. "Dohaerās, Vermithor! Dohaerās! (Serve, Vermithor! Serve!)" Jaehaerys commanded; soft at first, but then firmer. "Lykirī! Lykirī. (Be calm! Calm down.)"
Alicent and Viserys watched as the blazing embers in Vermithor's jaws slowly fizzled away. The Bronze Fury growled softly as he stared at the child.
Jaehaerys cautiously approached Vermithor, his hand still raised. Placing his palm on the dragon's snout, his initial fear was soon replaced with calmness and eventual excitement.
"Ha… Hahaha!" he began to chuckle with excitement. "I-I did it! Father, look! I did it!"
Aeonar nodded in approval. "Very good, my son. You have tamed Vermithor, as the Old King himself did before you. He is all yours now. But it is your responsibility to take care of him. Understand?"
Jaehaerys nodded and looked back at Alicent and his grandfather. His mother felt relieved, silently congratulating her son for finally acquiring his own dragon. Viserys knew that look well; he had seen it the day when Aeonar officially bonded with Vaelor and when Rhaenyra had with Syrax. But there was still one final act that needed to be completed, to officially seal the bond between the dragon and the rider… they needed to fly together. It had been many, many years since Viserys had last been on the back of a dragon, but he could still remember it as if it were yesterday. The exhilaration and sheer freedom of soaring through the air. Seeing things that only a handful of people could. He gently wiped a tear from his eye with his hand.
"Now climb up and strap yourself into the harness," Aeonar instructed.
Jaehaerys approached Vermithor's side and saw the harness belts. Gripping each one, the young prince climbed up to the top and sat down on the saddle. He looked down at the others. Everyone looked so small from this height!
"Drāñēdan iemnȳ remio. (Open the inner gates.)" Aeonar commanded.
The Dragonkeepers proceeded to push open the Dragonmont's doors leading to the outside. Vermithor growled when the elder Bronze Fury turned to see sunlight.
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On the outside, Vaelor remained nesting beside a half-eaten whale carcass. In the span of six years, the Swiftrunner had grown to be 196 feet long with an almost 380-foot wingspan – making him one of the largest dragons in the Seven Kingdoms behind Vermithor and Vhagar. Since the group was on Dragonstone, Vaelor asserted himself as the dominant male on the island. When Corxes, Maelyx, and Gaemon arrogantly approached, Vaelor hissed a warning at the smaller dragonlings. As the alpha, he gets to eat first. Syrax, on the other hand, chirped vocalizations. Vaelor growled but permitted the she-dragon to join in on the feast. Of course, being smaller, Corxes, Maelyx, and Gaemon had to wait their turn and hope their larger kin were generous enough to leave behind some scraps.
When the sound of the door leading to the Dragonmont began to open, Vaelor and Syrax stopped eating and turned to the volcano. From there, they could see both Vermithor and Silverwing emerging from their lair with their respective riders following close behind them.
Aeonar looked up. "Now… command him, Jaehaerys. Say the word."
Jaehaerys, once firmly strapped into his saddle, tapped Vermithor's back three times. "Uhh… S-Sōvēs (Fly), Vermithor. Sōvēs! (Fly!)" he called out to the Bronze Fury.
"*RROOOOOOO!*" Vermithor roared and stretched his wings out. It had been almost twenty years since he flew again. The Bronze Fury began to run along the sand to gain traction; once he was getting closer, Vermithor began picking up speed. Rearing on his hind legs, he kicked himself off the ground and took off to the skies. Silverwing screeched and followed closely behind her mate.
"WHOOOOOOOAAAA!"
Aeonar watched Jaehaerys flying on dragonback for the first time as Vermithor soared majestically in the sky, letting loose a powerful roar that could be heard for miles.
At the castle, guards and servants raced to windows and terraces. Meanwhile in the villages, fishermen and mongers looked up from their catches. From their caves, the other dragons inhabiting the island emerged. All of them looked up to the sight of Vermithor.
High in the air, Jaehaerys could see the entirety of the island. He could even see into the Dragonmont and the churning fiery lava bubbling inside it. Jaehaerys had flown himself before, only on Vaelor's back with his father. But now he was on his own, just him and his dragon. He could fly across the Narrow Sea to see the wonders of Essos; he could fly to the North and land Vermithor atop the Wall. He could fly west beyond Casterly Rock and the Iron Islands into the great unknown. Unable to resist the ecstatic joy that welled in his chest, the Targaryen prince let out a whooping cry almost as great as any dragon's roar.
After a prolonged period of flying, Vermithor descended lower until he landed on the shores. The ground made a thunderous boom when the elder dragon's feet hit the ground.
Unfastening himself, Jaehaerys hopped off Vermithor and sprinted excitedly toward his family. "Mother! Grandpa! Did you see that?" he painted.
Alicent rushed and embraced her firstborn child, plastering him with kisses and double-checking to make sure that he was all right.
Viserys's face hurt, he was smiling so much as he approached. "My boy, well done," he said as he ruffled Jaehaerys's hair. "You did brilliantly. You managed Vermithor as masterfully as your namesake, I would daresay better."
Jaehaerys's siblings rushed forwards to hug and congratulate him, including his cousins.
"That was impressive, Jay!" Jacaerys exclaimed. "What was it like up there?"
"I-I just can't describe it, Jace! I-I mean the wind was just, just blowing right past my face! A-And…!"
Aeonar watched with his arms crossed. Good. Now that he has a dragon, it is only a matter of time before he becomes a skilled dragonrider himself. He glanced up at the clouds. Do you see this from where you are, grandfather? What you gave to me, I now pass on to my son. Everything you taught me on taming a dragon.
"You know, he reminds me of you," Rhaenyra approached. "Back when you were old enough and Vaelor was big enough to ride. Always flying around King's Landing never wanting it to end."
"Funny. I was just about to say the same thing to you... although you had a little too much fun. Never mind the capital, you and Syrax went everywhere across the Crownlands without so much as a care in the world."
"I know, brother. We were both children back then. But now here we are. Passing on everything we have learned to our sons and striving to do better by them. The Caltrops will soon come for them, Aeonar. We must protect our children. Let us stand together once more, side-by-side."
She is finally understanding her role in our family. "They won't lay so much as a finger on their heads… or they will burn for it. Having a dragon is more than a testament to our lineage. It also comes with great responsibility." Aeonar turned to his daughter. "And what… is Aemma doing?" he pointed.
Rhaenyra turned to see Aemma on the ground in a giggling fit. Silverwing was nuzzling her with her snout in a gentle, affectionate gesture. "Well… I had not expected Silverwing to bond with someone else so quickly," she noticed. "Still, this does prove quite beneficial. Wouldn't you say?"
"Yes, it does, Rhaenyra. Yes, it does…"
Chapter End
Author's Note: Well guys, here we go! Jumping forward six years to see the Targaryen children growing up. Jaehaerys is seen to have a very close, loving relationship with his grandfather, King Viserys. Although Viserys is having a rough time with his ailments and has one arm now, it didn't seem to put a damper on his spirits in anyway now that he's gotten to spend most of his time with his grandchildren. Since he didn't have a dragon to call his own yet, Aeonar decided now was the time to get Jaehaerys one... and what better way to make this a story than to pair him up with Vermithor, the Bronze Fury himself. Not just that, his daughter Aemma has bonded with Silverwing without even trying. How did you guys think the series will progress from here? Let me know.
Maelstrom2.0: Will there be a flashback between Aeonar and the good Queen Alysanne?
―I could try, but I don't think his earlier memories of his great-grandmother might still be there
randomdude24: Jay claiming vermithor and Aemma silverwing is a major win. if you know the canon, you know what happens to these dragons. Aeonar seems to be a good father to all his children, loves them dearly. Although I get the feeling the only way your dance of the dragons will play is he will lose one of them, if not more of them. I fear that will make him snap and become a mad king.
SupremeWarwick14: So Alicent and Aeonar had five children: Jaehaerys, Aegon, Viserys, Aemma and Daeron. I like how you include Daeron as Alicent's child. In general, Jaehaerys seems like the typical older brother and a worthy heir, like Jacaerys was; Aegon and Viserys remind me of Fred and George of Harry Potter (please don't kill one off) and they are like Rhaenyra in only that aspect I hope (now I get Viserys nickname), Aemma seems like young Alicent, shy but not weak, and Daeron seems too energetic. I also like that you managed to explain Aeonar's dreams. He is a dreamer, but the prophecies may be missinterpreted. Alicent didn't die in childbirth, but she almost did. However, she was pretty sick, which the prophecy said it would happen. The only good thing of that experience is that Alicent was finally able to accept Rhaenyra's apology, and reklindled their friendship. Good for them.
Jaehaerys is his namesake reborn. It was badass of him to claim Vermithor. And Silverwing is too friendly, as Aemma quickly bonded with her. I love those two. Those are excellent news for the Blacks. While the fact that their side had nearly all their eggs hatch helps make them look more legitimate, they are going to need some heavy hitters, and they just got them.
Now, Rhaenyra, I thought you had grown up. Why did you still hook up with Sir Harwin? Well, at least she supports Aeonar, and I admit, that's her only mistake, otherwise she is very mature.
Questions:
- How did Alicent felt during Jacaerys' birth? Did she accompany Rhaenyra?
―At first yes, but she noticed the difference in appearance. Alicent birthed five Targaryen children so she knows somethings off.
- What does Aeonar think of his children Viserys, Aegon and Daeron? Does he has a problem with Daeron for almost killing Alicent?
―He doesn't hold it against Daeron for almost killing Alicent, but those three drive him crazy - the twins with their pranks and Daeron with his attitude problem.
- Do Aeonar and Alicent approve and like Jacaerys and Lucerys?
―No comment.
- Did Rhaenyra seek Aeonar's help when she couldn't get pregnant of Laenor?
―No. If she did, that would make Aeonar more suspicious.
- Has Aeonar confronted Harwin for You know that?
―No, he knows Harwin's their biological father.
- Has Aeonar confronted Otto for hiding his father's sickness?
―In flashbacks, yes.
FireKing500: I am surprised you didn't have Rhaenyra have at least one child through Laenor. Maybe if she did and had the other children, it would be easy to see the difference. Well if Laena and Daemon have their two girls, guessing Jae will be paired with one of the daughters to keep Corlys on their side.
It will be interesting to see the reaction to Jae claiming Vermithor and ppl will say he is the Conciliator reborn. It would be very funny if the children of Beatrice look up to Aeonar and do not want to cause trouble. That would be one way to stop the dance by getting the children of Beatrice to not want to go against Aeonar and his children.
C.E.W: Jaehaerys and Aemma have bonded with Vermithor and Silverwing, well done on describing their taming. Jaehaerys taming the dragon of the Old King only increases the power of the Blacks as it shows he is worthy successor, as the Caltrops are weakened from Aeonar's little purge before Rhaenyra and Laenor's wedding.
No doubt Otto Hightower will be very pleased and proud to hear two of his children have tamed the dragons of the Old King and Good Queen. Glad to hear that Rhaenyra has reconciled with Alicent, and Aeonar apparently.
Of all of children of Beatrice and Viserys, Aemond is the most concerning one. He is a skilled fighter, and is to ride the largest dragon of House Targaryen.
Questions:
Does Aegon the Elder fear Aeonar? He does not want the Iron Throne? He feels he is not qualified against Aeonar?
―If he hasn't yet, he soon will. Aeonar is far older, more experienced, and doesn't play around.
Given the Blacks have a lot more dragons, will it be the Caltrops who will recruit illegitimate Valyrian children to get more dragon riders? For the Caltrops to make a challenge, they have to be more powerful?
―The Caltrops will have to seek out every opportunity and potential ally they can come across to even the odds.
Has Aeonar confronted Harwin about the affairs with Rhaenyra? Unlike Criston Cole, Harwin is the son of a high Lord and Hand of the King Lyonel Strong whose served the crown faithfully for years.
―No, he already knows Harwin Strong is his nephew's biological father.
Baelon taught Aeonar how to be a dragon rider? Baelon passed when Aeonar was very young.
―Faintest memories mentioned in flashbacks when he rode with his grandfather on Vhagar.
Has the Triarchy rebuilt in the years since the wedding?
―Not yet, they're still pretty weak after that whole Plan Zero.
Will Aeonar Targaryen be teaching the children including Rhaenyra's and Beatrice's how to be dragon riders? As heir and future king it is expected of him to make sure his leadership is clear to the next generation.
―Yes, but he's a strict mentor.
Will Ser Criston Cole be training the children in terms of sword arms like in the show?
―Yes.
mpowers045: That was excellent!
Vandal55: Massive win for the Blacks getting Verminthor. I'm curious is Aeonar aware of his nephew's real father?
―It doesn't take much once they look into The Lineages and Histories of the Great Houses of the Seven Kingdoms to tell who belongs to who.
suppes1: Excellent Vermithror was my favorite in the book Fire and Blood but I really hated how he was used by his last rider before he died
KingInTheNorth27: Very excited on what is going to happen next I do not expect but thought or at least I hoped that Jaehaerys will tame the bronze fury as I thought that would be really cool for him to gain before the dance as he is the second largest dragon and a good mount for a king. Also liked that he is prevented from bonding with the dragon seeds as I believe they betrayed Rhaenyra, and the blacks in the books. I'm supervised but glad that Aeonar daughter getting silverwing as she is the fourth largest dragon and like what I said about vermithor she won't be claimed by the dragon seeds
I am wondering if you will you still include the dragon seeds in this fic as I'm curious to see how they will add to the story as the show will probably introduce them next season.
―You never see Vermithor or Silverwing without the other - and Silverwing is more friendly than her mate is.