King's Landing ― Docks…
Corlys was lying on the edge of his bed within his chamber on his flagship, the Sea Snake. Despite his legendary reputation as the greatest seafarer in the Seven Kingdoms, he remained unaware of the events that unfolded in King's Landing due to his absence. After recovering from a violent battle with Tyroshi general Racallio Ryndoon, Corlys considered himself lucky to be still alive. He leaned on his cane for support, as his body was still weak from the blood fever. The stitching on his neck was held together with medicinal cloth, which had been carefully applied by the Sea Snake's maester using ointments and disinfectants. Corlys knew he had a long road to full recovery, but he was grateful to have survived such a harrowing experience. Undoubtedly, Corlys remained conscious enough to observe that his spouse, Princess Rhaenys, had been keeping a close eye on him and tending to him while he slept during their journey from Evenfall to the harbor of King's Landing. "Heh, I've had men whipped for falling asleep on their watch," he joked lightly. "But you… are not like anyone I've ever met. You are no man."
Rhaenys, however, was not amused. "Reflecting on the past six months you've been gone, I can't help but ask you: was the risk worth jeopardizing our family's future? The uncertainty of what would happen if your fever didn't claim you or if you were lost fighting in the Stepstones? Both of our children, Laenor and Laena, are gone forever. We'll never get them back. It's been difficult for us all, especially our granddaughters, Baela and Rhaena. They needed you, as did I. It's hard to accept that you left us behind once again for another adventure at sea, as has always been your way."
"It wasn't supposed to be like this…"
"As if that makes any difference now, Corlys. What's done is done. Now live with it as I have."
Corlys felt more tired and defeated. "I understand we have a new king," he inquired.
"The Stranger casts a long shadow over this family," Rhaenys replied. Her son, her daughter, and her cousin, all three were dead. "Viserys is dead… and so is your brother."
"Vaemond…? Wha… Why? How did he die?"
"In his haste to bury you and claim your seat, he stood before Viserys and denounced Laenor's sons as illegitimate. He also provoked Aeonar to fury when he degraded Queen Aemma's memory. He thrust a concealed knife into Vaemond's heart for it. It moved so fast we couldn't see it. And Daemon took his head almost immediately."
Corlys winced in agony, a sharp pain piercing from his neck. "Heedless ambition has always been a Velaryon weakness," he admitted. He had always known that his younger brother Vaemond was equally ambitious as he was, but his stubbornness and defiance were unmatched. Vaemond had no filter, no restraint to know when to stop. Learning that both Aeonar and Daemon had executed him left the Sea Snake with a sinking feeling. He knew his house was already too invested and had crossed a line they could never return from, especially now that King Viserys was dead. "I'm sorry, Rhaenys… for everything. I reached too far in our pursuit of the Iron Throne. And it's been slowly costing us our family, bit by bit. I should have been more content with what we had at High Tide than what I thought was in our family's best interest. Our grandchildren, and―"
Rhaenys, while grateful for the kindness, stood firm. "You're still as headstrong as ever, even in this sorry state," she declared. You were never the kind of man who rolled over in the face of adversity. "Baela is engaged to marry Jaehaerys, as is Jace to Rhaena. They'll never be safe so long as the Caltrops are still out there, plotting from the shadows even while on the run." She looked her husband dead in the eyes. "And your longtime ally, whom you once regarded as 'an inexperienced boy,' is holding the realm together now. Even as we speak, men gather at the Red Keep urging him to plunge the realm into war." She looked out the window. They had finally arrived. "Yet, at the urging of his family, he is showing restraint, but it may not be enough."
Corlys was aware that his wife's judgment was sound. He recollected how, more than twenty-two years ago, he had first heard of King Viserys appointing his heir Aeonar to the small council as Master of Whisperers. At that time, Corlys had perceived Aeonar as inexperienced because he was only fifteen. However, as time passed and he received more information, which ultimately benefited House Velaryon in the long run, Corlys gradually began to place more trust in Aeonar. When the Triarchy emerged and occupied the Stepstones, Aeonar was the only council member who stood by Corlys's side and advocated for closer ties between House Targaryen and Driftmark. In times of war, Aeonar was undoubtedly Corlys's most powerful ally. Naturally, Corlys remembered the promise he had been offered and had accepted: 'Should either your son or your daughter Laena sire any daughters of their own, they shall be betrothed to my heir once they come of age.' If what Rhaenys said was true, that Baela and Rhaena were to be wedded to Jaehaerys and Jacaerys, it can be inferred that Beatrice Peake and her group would also aim to harm Lucerys and Joffrey. This would mean that the destinies of Houses Targaryen and Velaryon will be inextricably tied together as it was during the days of Old Valyria and Aegon's Conquest once again.
"Milord, we have arrived at the capital," Addam announced as he entered the room.
"The city is still in the process of rebuilding, but we have been granted clearance to enter," Alyn updated, his tone serious yet reassuring.
With the help of his trusty cane, Corlys managed to get back on his feet. Rhaenys, the Sea Snake, and his guardsmen assisted him as he disembarked from his flagship and made his way toward the harbor. The city of King's Landing was slowly getting back on its feet after the Caltrops' failed attempt at a coup. From the dock workers to the smiths, everyone worked hard to repair the damage to the city's infrastructure. Corlys, being closely guarded, made his way to the Red Keep, taking in all the sights and sounds along the way.
Red Keep ― Small Council chamber…
"What is our standing?" Otto inquired.
"Overall, I'd say our armies are in such a stronger position than we ever expected," Daemon said, overlooking a map of Westeros. The perspective of the Rogue Prince, a well-experienced combat veteran among the Blacks, would be invaluable. However, Daemon was displeased with the prospect of collaborating with Otto again. "Dragonstone has 30 knights, 100 crossbowmen, and 300 men-at-arms. The island fortress is relatively easy to defend and guarded by the Royal Fleet, so we have no cause to concern whether the Caltrops will attack there. To do that means they'll have to get by King's Landing, which is also heavily defended by our forces throughout the Crownlands. I've also sent word to my loyal men in the City Watch. We'll have support should the fighting make its way here."
"The gold in the royal treasury was slowly dwindling, likely due to the Caltrops siphoning money for themselves before their attempted coup, but luckily enough, we have enough to get by for the time being. However, in the event of war breaking out, we could find ourselves in a precarious situation. Our soldiers may not have the necessary funds to continue their efforts or acquire new armaments," Bartimos reported. "I've already taken the initiative to send out missives to prepare for the worst-case scenario. It won't be an easy battle, but all in due time―"
"By imposing exorbitant prices on individuals, traders, and merchants already experiencing financial hardship? Doubling or tripling fees on those you wish to impose?" Jaehaerys raised an eyebrow. "You do realize, my lord, that taking such an approach could have negative consequences in the long term, leading to more harm than any potential gains we may see in the short term."
"You are young, my prince. But if we're to prevent the realm's economy from collapsing―"
"Any proposal to the crown regarding finances will be subjected to review," Otto intervened. "What else do we have?"
"Interesting wrinkle, my lord Hand," Farrier reported. "Our agents have been getting secret messages from the Conningtons, Reynes, and Tarbecks. They're promising to back us."
"You jest," the news took aback Aegon the Younger. Two notable houses from the Westerlands, known for producing exceptional knights, including Griffin's Roost from the Stormlands, have defected from the Caltrops. They may provide an advantage to the Blacks' military forces, along with their powerful navies and dragons. However, the prince heeded his father's spymaster, recognizing the need to check their backgrounds to rout spies or future betrayals thoroughly.
"I wish. But, per your father's orders, we're making sure they don't try anything."
"We've also gotten declarations of support from the Blackwoods and Mallisters, Darrys, Pipers, and Freys," Alwyn reported.
Seated at the high end of the table, King Aeonar intently listened to the heated discussions among his counselors and family members. The topic at hand was critical, involving the crucial aspects of loyalties and strategy. Ever since the failed coup attempt, news had spread like wildfire throughout the Seven Kingdoms, courtesy of Otto Hightower's efforts, exposing the nefarious intentions of Beatrice and the Caltrops. Though the Blacks had managed to gain more support from the noble houses, the need for additional help was still imminent. While his followers urged him to declare war, Aeonar remained steadfast in his commitment to respect his late father's and great-grandfather's wishes to keep the realm united and preserve the Targaryen dynasty. The crown cannot stand so long as the House of the Dragon remains divided… However,ever, the task proved to be more challenging than anticipated. The constant twitches and pulls on the nerves at the back of his head were causing him significant discomfort.
"Our lady mother was an Arryn," Rhaenyra pointed at the map. "The Vale will not turn cloak against their own kin."
"Riverrun was always a close friend to your father, Your Grace," Alwyn told Aeonar.
"But west of Riverrun lies the Westerlands," Viserys pointed toward Casterly Rock. "The Lannisters would surely invade from the Golden Tooth. The Riverlands are essential, yet they have no natural defenses and are right in the middle of the realm."
"That's true," Daemon agreed. "We have no friends amongst the Lannisters. Lord Unwin must have made Lord Jason and Ser Tyland an offer to keep them from turning against the Caltrops, and they'll need the Lannister fleet. If they do invade, it'll be from the Golden Tooth, but with the Reynes and Tarbecks declaring for their rightful king, it will certainly buy us some time."
"If it does come to war, the riverlords will bear its brunt. Too many will get caught in the middle," Jaehaerys examined the map.
"With Prince Daemon's acquiescence, I've already sent ravens to Lord Grover Tully."
"But will that be enough?" Aemma inquired.
"Lord Grover is fickle and easily swayed, my niece," Rhaenyra remarked. "He will need to be convinced of the strength of our position and that we will support him should it come to war."
"I'm going to treat with him myself. And if he doesn't―" Daemon interjected.
"What about his grandsons? Ser Elmo and Kermit Tully? They were always supportive of my father."
"Their lord father passed recently, which means Ser Elmo is the new heir to Riverrun," Daemon replied.
Bartimos cleared his throat. "Pray for my bluntness, Your Grace," he turned to Aeonar, "but talk of men is moot. Your cause owns a power that has not been seen in this world since the days of Old Valyria. Dragons. I suggest you use them."
"The Caltrops have dragons as well," Rhaenyra pointed out.
Daemon shook his head. "They have three adults, by my count. Vhagar, Sunfyre, and Dreamfyre. We must consider that two other dragons have been reported missing from the Dragonpit before we liberated the city," he said. "We have Vaelor, Syrax, Caraxes, and Meleys. Your sons, Aeonar, have Vermithor, Corxes, Maelyx, and Gaemon. Aemma has Silverwing."
"Daemon," Alicent interjected. "What you're speaking of is nothing short of madness. You wish to send our sons to war?"
"What choice do we have? Your sons aren't boys any longer. It's time they started acting like men," Daemon scoffed. "Rhaenyra's sons have Vermax, Arrax, and Tyraxes. Baela has Moondancer. I also have a score of eggs incubating in the Dragonmont. Then there are the three wild dragons on Dragonstone, all of whom nest there."
"The Cannibal is out of the question," Aeonar said, voicing his objections. "The Rhúqo region… is off-limits. No one is to dare set foot there. Ever."
"Stamping out rebellion is one thing, great-uncle," Jaehaerys interjected, "but father did not ascend the Iron Throne just to be called 'King of the Ashes.' If we do that, then we'll only prove Beatrice's point, and she'll rally more sympathizers to her cause. That's not what our late grandfather would have wanted."
"I agree," Otto said. "If the great houses support His Grace's claim against Aegon the Elder, the game is won. With the Riverlands, North, and Vale on our side, we have powerful allies in the north and central Westeros."
"Tell me: have you ever been to war, Otto?" Daemon sneered.
"I've been around long enough to distinguish between boldness and recklessness. However, I do not believe that stupidity is a part of this equation. It is important to keep in mind that Beatrice and her followers have several locations to hide in. Our search may begin at Starpike, but they could have already moved on to Dustonbury, Whitegrove, or even returned to Starpike before relocating again to somewhere larger for their host to congregate. Locating them will require a significant investment of both time and resources."
"Huh. I never took you for a coward. We cut off the west and the south, surround all three castles with a sizeable host on the ground and dragons in the skies, and we can have every Caltrop head mounted on spikes before the fucking moon turns."
"This is not your decision to make, Daemon."
"And neither is it yours, Otto."
"ENOUGH!" With an emphatic shout, Aeonar brought the room to a sudden and complete silence. The constant jangling of his nerves, tugging and twitching at every corner of the back of his head, was already agitating him to an intolerable degree, and the pointless internal bickering was only making matters worse. "I see no point in trying to stir up unnecessary drama in my hall. Such a public spectacle is nothing short of annoyance. Honestly, I don't have the time or patience for such pettiness," he said, addressing his father-in-law, Otto. "Your feud with Prince Daemon has gone on long enough. While I value your advice, you should know better than anyone not to stoop to his level." Turning to Daemon, he continued, "You're one of the few members of this council with more battle experience, and while I agree that we need to quell this rebellion, you will watch your tone when speaking to my Hand. And don't mistake my decisions or actions as a sign of complacency." He rose from his seat, gazing across the table, eyeing his councilors down. "Our contingency plans are in full swing. While the Hand will lead our diplomacy efforts, Prince Daemon will work with our followers to prepare them for the right moment in case things go south. However, let me clarify - no one in this room is to make a move without my approval." Aeonar took a deep breath to steady himself, determined to see this through. "I will not be King of the Ashes, and I refuse to let my father's legacy crumble without making an effort to salvage it. If we do this, we will do it right - no shortcuts. Do I make myself clear?"
Otto held his tongue. "My apologies, Your Grace," he offered respectfully. He couldn't help but compare dealing with Viserys to the new king, Aeonar. The latter was not one to be pushed around and would quickly push back if needed.
As for Daemon, he said nothing, but his intense glare spoke volumes. Working with Otto was the last thing the Rogue Prince wanted, but he had no choice but to grit his teeth and tolerate his rival's presence.
"The Lord of the Tides!" Ser Erryk announced. "Lord Corlys Velaryon… and his wife, Princess Rhaenys Targaryen."
The names caught Aeonar's attention. When Corlys and Rhaenys entered, every member of the esteemed Black Council's attention was immediately captivated. After a prolonged absence from court, the Sea Snake's return was a most welcome relief for Aeonar, who had been eagerly awaiting his trusted ally's return. He knew his longtime ally would pull through. The sight of Corlys in good health filled him with a profound sense of comfort and ease, serving as a reassuring reminder of the strength and resilience of their alliance.
"Lord Corlys," Jaehaerys acknowledged.
"Grandfather!" Baela and Rhaena were overjoyed to see him again.
"My lords," Corlys greeted everyone present. Steadying himself on his cane, the Sea Snake soon approached a vacant seat next to the king.
"Ah, Lord Corlys. It's good to see you again," Aeonar acknowledged his presence.
"It brings much relief to see you hale and healthy again," Rhaenyra reciprocated.
"Indeed," Alicent agreed. "We prayed to the gods day and night for your recovery."
"I thank you for your… kind words," Corlys replied, still exhausted. "I'm very sorry about your father. Despite our differences, he was a good man."
"Ah, yes. Yes, he was." Aeonar said somberly.
"Things wouldn't be as much fun without a certain someone to help strategize a battle," Daemon remarked.
"Mmm. So it's been said." Corlys couldn't help but feel a sense of irony as he recalled his time fighting alongside Daemon and Aeonar in the Stepstones against the Triarchy. Those were the days, but now they faced an entirely different enemy. It's incredible how much can change in such a short period of time. "Your declared allies?" he asked, surveying the map.
"Yes," Aeonar answered.
"I must admit, I wasn't expecting an immediate response. I heard what happened… in my absence. But so far, without me, you're off to a good start for holding the throne."
"It was my son Prince Jaehaerys who stumbled upon Beatrice's conspiracy and warned us in the first place, Lord Corlys. He did not waver and did not flinch."
"Regardless," Jaehaerys said, "my commitment to the well-being of our family, the crown, and ensuring the realm's stability strives for continual improvement. I was fulfilling my duty as any Targaryen would, but it wasn't all just me. I had help," he pointed toward Ser Erryk.
"Mmm. I see," Corlys said. Looking at him, he noticed Baela standing beside him, as did Rhaena with Jacaerys. "Your father's realm," he said to Aeonar, "was one of justice and honor. For twenty-two years, you've been a champion for Driftmark and a friend to House Velaryon. What kind of friend would I be if I wasn't there for you now?Our houses are bound by common blood and common cause. This Peake treason cannot stand. You have the full support of our fleet and house." He tried to kneel but only went as far as he physically could. "Your Grace," he vowed.
Aeonar was very pleased to hear it. With the combined might of the Velaryon fleet in the east and the Redwyne fleet in the west, the Blacks were steadily becoming a force to be reckoned with, increasing in power and influence. Moreover, as the wealthiest house in the realm, the Velaryons were in a prime position to control crucial shipping routes in the Stepstones and across the Narrow Sea with city-states such as Braavos, Pentos, Lorath, and Volantis, ensuring that trade would continue to flow freely and benefit the royal treasury. Indeed, the Velaryons were poised to play a vital role. Aeonar picked up a black colored marble. Corlys and Driftmark were crucial to his plans, and his talents would be used well. "Well then," he said, twirling the spherical marble in his hands, "consider yourself reinstated…" he tossed it to Corlys, who caught it in one hand. "Lord Admiral."
As he felt the weight of the smooth marble in his hand, Corlys knew that this was a moment he had been preparing for. This small totem represented a great responsibility and honor that he had held under King Viserys before his resignation. Now, he was again called upon to take up the mantle. With a deep breath and a solemn nod, Corlys made his final decision and accepted the appointment to the small council as Master of Ships and Lord Admiral of the Royal Fleet under King Aeonar. It was a weighty task, but one that he was already familiar with, ready to take on with all the skill and dedication he could muster.
"Until the time comes, I made a promise to my father before he died to hold the realm strong and united before he died. If war's first stroke is to fall, it will not be by my hand," Aeonar said. "I wish to know who our allies are and who stands against us before we act. Daemon, Corlys, and Farrier will take care of that. In the meantime, we must convince neutral parties that siding with us is the right course of action. I leave that task to Otto." He turned to his son. "But first," he cleared his throat, "while we make our preparations, Jaehaerys, I'd like you to take a more active role in shaping this realm's future."
"Father?" Jaehaerys inquired.
"Jaehaerys, you are my eldest son. Despite the danger the Caltrops represented and the situation you were under, you handled yourself exceptionally well in helping to stop the coup. Your actions have proven that you are more than ready to take on the responsibility of being its heir. Whatever my father bestowed upon me twenty-seven years ago now falls to you."
Jaehaerys stood in the small council chamber, acutely aware of the piercing gazes directed his way. As the king's first son, he had just been named the new heir to the Iron Throne, a position of immense responsibility. The news of his bravery in uncovering and thwarting the Caltrops' attempted coup had already spread across the Seven Kingdoms, though the tales were perhaps embellished. Nevertheless, expectations were heavy on his shoulders, and he knew he must shoulder it. Duty and honor bound him to do so. Jaehaerys was determined not to fail his family, for they relied on him as much as he relied on them - his father, mother, siblings, cousins, aunt, and maternal grandfather. With a renewed sense of purpose, the young prince nodded in acknowledgment, ready to meet the challenges ahead. "I understand, father. I will not fail you," he said.
"Good." Aeonar turned to Otto. "Have everyone assembled in the throne room. It's time we make this official."
"I'll make the preparations, Your Grace," Otto replied.
Red Keep ― Throne room…
Jaehaerys – now decked out in the formidable red and black colors of the House of the Dragon – stood at the base of the Iron Throne. A sea of lords, ladies, and knights from every corner of the realm who have already pledged allegiance to the Blacks fill the throne room. The air is electric with jubilance and merriment.
Aeonar – crowned and dressed in the ceremonial armor of his house and with the Targaryen ancestral sword Blackfyre gripped in his hand – sits upon the Iron Throne; his mind wandered back to when he was merely a young boy of ten, named by his father as his heir. The irony of the situation was not lost on him. Now, as he passed on the mantle of responsibility to his own son, Jaehaerys, he couldn't help but feel the weight of his expectations. The fate of the House of the Dragon lay in the hands of the next generation, and Aeonar could only hope that his son would carry on the family legacy with the same determination and strength that had been passed down through the ages. You've become a fine prince, my son. And you're a much wiser young man than I was. I foresee you will surpass me and grow into a greater king. Tapping the ground with Blackfyre three times, the Young Dragon called for silence.
A long queue of lords has formed before the throne, wearing sigils familiar and unfamiliar. They wait with retainers – knights and men-at-arms – but when summoned by interim Grand Maester Alwyn, the lords approach Jaehaerys alone.
"I, Bartimos Celtigar, Lord of Claw Isle," Bartimos began, "promise to be faithful to King Aeonar and his named heir, the Prince Jaehaerys." He lifted his head. "I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. I swear this by the Old Gods and the New."
As the vows were sworn, Jaehaerys looks out over the gathered lords of the Seven Kingdoms and all those yet to swear obeisance to him.
"I, Gunthor Darklyn, Lord of Duskendale, promise to be faithful to King Aeonar and his named heir, the Prince Jaehaerys. I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. I swear this by the Old Gods and the New."
"I, Sarrac Darry, Lord of Darry, promise to be faithful to King Aeonar and his named heir, the Prince Jaehaerys. I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. I swear this by the Old Gods and the New."
"I, Forrest Frey, Lord of the Crossing, promise to be faithful to King Aeonar and his named heir, the Prince Jaehaerys. I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. I swear this by the Old Gods and the New."
The lords of Westeros continue coming forward to swear obeisance to Jaehaerys.
"I, Donnal Connington, Lord of Griffin's Roost, promise to be faithful to King Aeonar and his named heir, the Prince Jaehaerys. I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. I swear this by the Old Gods and the New."
"I, Samwell Blackwood, Lord of Raventree Hall, promise to be faithful to King Aeonar and his named heir, the Prince Jaehaerys. I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. I swear this by the Old Gods and the New."
"I, Jorah Mallister, Lord of Seagard, promise to be faithful to King Aeonar and his named heir, the Prince Jaehaerys. I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. I swear this by the Old Gods and the New."
"I, Jarson Reyne, Lord of Castamere, promise to be faithful to King Aeonar and his named heir, the Prince Jaehaerys. I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. I swear this by the Old Gods and the New."
"I, Howar Tarbeck, Lord of Tarbeck Hall, promise to be faithful to King Aeonar and his named heir, the Prince Jaehaerys. I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. I swear this by the Old Gods and the New."
"I, Alan Beesbury, Lord of Honeyholt, promise to be faithful to King Aeonar and his named heir, the Prince Jaehaerys. I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. I swear this by the Old Gods and the New."
"I, Ormund Hightower, Lord of the Hightower, Lord of Oldtown, Beacon of the South, Defender of the Citadel, and Voice of Oldtown, promise to be faithful to King Aeonar and his named heir, the Prince Jaehaerys. I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. I swear this by the Old Gods and the New."
"I, Corlys Velaryon, Lord of the Tides and Master of Driftmark, promise to be faithful to King Aeonar and his named heir, the Prince Jaehaerys. I pledge fealty to them and shall defend them against all enemies in good faith and without deceit. I swear this by the Old Gods and the New."
As each individual swears their solemn vows before the Young Dragon's eldest son, a sense of awe fills the air. Once the oaths of obeisance are complete, King Aeonar rises from the Iron Throne to speak to address his lords and subjects. "I, Aeonar of House Targaryen," he decreed, "the First of My Name, King of the Andals, the Rhoynar, and the First Men, Lord of the Seven Kingdoms and Protector of the Realm, do hereby name Jaehaerys Targaryen Prince of Dragonstone and heir to the Iron Throne."
Jaehaerys turns and looks back at his father. He nods at him, promising. Aeonar nods back at him but is solemn. Jaehaerys turns around to face the crowd, looking out across the lords of the realm that he will be responsible for holding together after Aeonar. After the ceremony, the new Prince of Dragonstone was met with various family members.
Baela, dressed in a black dress with red lace, curtsied. "Congratulations on your new role, tough guy," she teased.
Jaehaerys blushed. "Thank you," he said. Next, the young man shifted his gaze toward his cousins Jacaerys, Lucerys, and Joffrey Velaryon, who were standing nearby. All three Veleyron brothers were beaming with admiration and respect towards their esteemed older cousin. They each presented themselves before him with a courteous bow, demonstrating their utmost reverence and honor.
"Does this mean I will have to call you Prince of Dragonstone in public all the time now?" Jacaerys joked.
"Only in formal settings. However, among those close to me, to my friends, to you, my cousin, I will always be just 'Jaehaerys.' I believe we have much work to accomplish to navigate the challenges ahead successfully."
Chapter End
Author's Note: The Blacks are sparing no expense in preparing for war, even if Aeonar is having 'problems' of his own. Those damned twitching and tugging of the nerves can aggrivate anyone. But with Corlys returning, the original trio - Corlys, Aeonar, and Daemon - are working together again. In addition, Corlys is back on the council as Master of Ships. What's more, there is a new Prince of Dragonstone: Jaehaerys Targaryen. Where do you think this will go? Let me know.
TheRagFromTheCrag: "Interesting Wrinkle-"
Admiral Steven Hackett, Mass Effect 3
"Consider yourself reinstatedAdmiral David Anderson, Mass Effect 3
Guest #2: I KNEW IT. House Reyne always being ambitious and now it might work out for them. With no Tywin to kill them all
C.E.W: Corlys Velaryon has declared for Aeonar Targaryen, which Velaryon fleet combined with the Redwyne fleet, they severely outnumber the Lannsiter fleet. Houses Reyne and Tarbeck have declared for Aeonar which will make it for difficult for the Lannisters to invade the Riverlands. There is no doubt House Arryn will declare for Aeonar, and with them the Vale. There is still the North, and the Stormlands to consider, House Connington has already declared for Aeonar. The Blacks are off to a good start, wonder how the Caltrops will make a comeback.
As expected Corlys has been reinstated as Master of Ships, and Lord Admiral of the Royal Fleet. Daemon Targaryen and Otto Hightower are bickering over the course of action to take as expected. Daemon pushing for war, whereas Otto pushing for diplomacy. But the bottom line is war is inevitable, some say that it has already begun. Beatrice is bent on putting her son Aegon the Elder on the throne no matter what.
Jaehaerys Targaryen has now been formally recognized as Prince of Dragonstone and heir to the Iron Throne. Won't be long before his wedding to Baela Targaryen.
Two dragons are missing from the Dragonpit, my guess is Hugh Hammer and Ulf White took them. If not them then perhaps agents of Larys Strong. Every dragon the Caltrops acquire increases their strength and threat to the Blacks.
Questions:
How much money did the Caltrops take from the treasury?
―Roughly 47%
Will Jaehaerys and Baela be married next chapter? If so, will be a short ceremony, given they are in a crisis and stand on the brink of war.
―Yes, the next chapter will be the wedding - I'll see what I can do
When did Lords Reyne, Tarbeck, Connington, Frey, and Darry arrive in the capital? Its a long ride, especially as far as the Frey bridge.
―A few days before the coup attempt
How are the Caltrops' hiding Vhagar? She's too big, and loud, someone would've spotted her from the sky.
―Fair Isle, one of the islands off the coast of the Westerlands
Guest #1: If the Blacks win will House Reyne of Tarbeck rule the westerlands?
―The Reynes rule Castamere, not Tarbeck Hall. And that would depending on which king remains standing.
randomdude24: A new prince of dragonstone, hopefully Jay makes it to the end of the dance. Already many lords and knights have openly sworn fealty to Aeonar and his heir making it clear who has declared for him.
A question about the lords you introduced, I recognize a few but not all, where any of these lords characters you created for the purpose of this story or where they actual characters from canon?
―Some of these lords weren't given names in the canon version, so I gave them one in this.
KingInTheNorth27: Really hope Jaehaerys lives at the end of this war as so far from what i can gather he will be a great king but like Aeonor before becoming king he hasnt been tested with the lose of a loved one like Aeonar mother and war which is just starting. so im curious if Jaehaerys will change during the war. With the Caltrops having the Stormlands, the Westerland and some the Reach and each can attack the Crownlands,Riverlands, and the Vale it seems to be pretty even so far as both sides are locked in a dead lock. So im curious how Caltropsa are going to slow down the north as the only advantage they have is that the north is large and takes time to muster a sizable army. So will they try to get the Boltons to rebel to hold the north from entering the dance or use ironborn to attack both the riverlands and the north. Maybe even uses the Triachy to attack the vale and the north. Looking forward to the next chap
Questions
Which two dragons where missing in the pit beacuse i can only remember Tessearion being there.
―You'll see
Will Aeonar allow the tax increase as that from what i remember was a main issue during OTL as the smallfolk hated it.
―That'll be up to him and Otto
Will Aeonar want to push for Jaeahaerys and Jacerys to marry Beala and Rhena soon as possible.
―That's actually going to happen in the next chapter; Jace and Rhaena might need to wait a while considering
Will there be a small fight between Aeonar and Daemon soon as im sure Daemon will keep pushing Aeonar for action against the Caltrops and make plans behind his back as Daemon is more bloodthirsty and Brashful as he thinks Aeonar is to slow to act.
―Yes, there will be something