Red Keep ― Maegor's Holdfast…
"War is coming, Baela," Rhaenys stated. "We must collect Rhaena and leave King's Landing at once."
"And go where?" Baela challenged.
"The safety of High Tide―"
"High Tide won't be safe. The Caltrops will assume we'll declare for Aeonar. Besides, they have far fewer dragons than we do; plus, King's Landing is a well-supplied fortress with high walls and is heavily defended on all sides by land, sea, or air. If war is coming, it's coming for all of us! We cannot hide from it."
"I've suffered too much loss, Baela. I cannot endure another."
Baela stood tall, her head shaking with conviction. "I am a dragonrider," she declared firmly, unwilling to budge from her position. "Like my mother and father and you," she approached. "If the Caltrops wish to challenge our king for the throne, then they must be answered with fire and blood!"
Rhaenys suddenly paused in the midst of her conversation with her granddaughter as she gazed upon the young woman before her; a sense of familiarity washed over her. It was as if she was looking at a younger version of her late daughter, Laena. The fire in her eyes, the unwavering passion, and the free spirit radiating from her all mirrored the qualities Rhaenys had dearly loved in her daughter. For a moment, the Queen Who Never Was felt like she was conversing with Laena again. The overwhelming sense of comfort that came with this realization caused her expression to soften. She allowed herself to bask in the moment's warmth, cherishing her beloved daughter's short but precious memory. Oh, Laena…
"Do you think I jest?" Baela asked, uncertain why her grandmother was staring at her in that manner.
Rhaenys smiled, shaking her head. "No," she replied. "I just saw my daughter for the first time in years…"
When Baela heard her grandmother compare her to her mother, Laena, her body immediately became tense. However, after a moment, her expression softened, suggesting that she took the comment as a compliment. It wasn't easy to imagine that Rhaenys would make such a remark without intending it to be positive. Baela's reaction indicated that she held her mother in high regard and was pleased to be compared to her.
"I often have a hard time accepting that you're a woman-grown, Baela. Sixteen, and already with so much potential. Forgive an old woman, but I see so much of her in you. She was… exactly how you were when she was your age." It was clear to Rhaenys that Baela had no intention of departing from the comforts of King's Landing. She was resolute in her decision to remain by the side of her betrothed, Jaehaerys, and fight alongside him on her dragon, Moondancer, as they had done in the past to liberate the capital from the Caltrops. Moreover, Baela remained steadfast in her resolve to marry Jaehaerys to strengthen their family and keep their Valyrian bloodline pure. "Well, I must admit, if you're sure about this decision, I'll have to stay on top to ensure you're happily married before my time is done."
"Grandmother…"
"I know, Baela. I know. Just… allow me this precious moment."
Rhaenys and Baela, the grandmother and grandchild duo, enjoyed a peaceful and serene morning together. It had been some time since Rhaena and Baela had visited Driftmark after their mother's passing. Rhaenys and Rhaena had grown exceptionally close in the years that had passed. The Queen Who Never Was had taken her eldest granddaughter as her ward, arranging regular visits between her and her younger sister. Although Rhaenys had offered Rhaena a room at High Tide, she respected Rhaena's desire to learn to be more self-sufficient. However, Rhaenys did appreciate the bond she shared with her granddaughters, as they were the only pieces of Laena she had left in their life. As Rhaenys was getting ready to depart, she happened upon Prince Jaehaerys by coincidence.
"Take good care of her," Rhaenys said before continuing.
"I promise," Jaehaerys reassured her. Once the doors shut, he and Baela were alone. "Is everything going smoothly between the two of you?" he inquired.
"Hey, tough guy. No, my grandmother may seem overbearing toward Rhaena and me, but she meant well if that's what you mean," Baela shook her head, acknowledging the situation. "Maybe it's just something to do with age."
"Would it be considered wrong for a grandmother to feel emotional about her granddaughter growing into a beautiful young woman?"
"Heh, flatterer. No, I suppose not. What about you, tough guy? I've heard rumors that the king has kept you occupied for quite a while."
"To put it mildly."
"Care to share any exciting stories?"
"None yet. Our focus has primarily been on the logistical aspects of the upcoming conflict. Per the necessary preparations, we have dispatched ravens to our allies across the realm and utilized all available resources for our logistical supply lines. It is worth noting that Daemon has been particularly insistent on the importance of shoring up our defenses."
"I understand," Baela acknowledged. "But I must admit, finding you here is quite unexpected. I had assumed you would be busy dealing with those pesky bureaucrats."
"Normally, I would. The process is primarily a procedural requirement, with the exception of the administrative tasks involved. Mother and I suggested we use diplomacy, but only father had the final word. He and Farrier used their connections through a third party to find where the Caltrops went. With Larys Strong at Beatrice's side, it'll be a while before we find them. They could be anywhere out there," Jaehaerys sighed. "But mainly, I just wanted to see you."
"Oh? Well, that's sweet of you. Because you're not getting rid of me that easily, tough guy; honestly, I've been feeling quite restless lately and could use some company for a change. It's like I'm stuck in a rut."
"So it would seem," Jaehaerys observed, that Baela had changed her posture, indicating that she was preoccupied with something else. "There's more, isn't there?"
"I'm that obvious, aren't I? Sorry I've been… distracted, Jay. You know how it is. It's just that…"
"Did something happen?"
Contrary to expectation, Baela appeared relaxed rather than anxious. "I heard from Ser Robert this morning. My grandfather's fever has broken. He's okay," she shared with a hint of relief.
Jaehaerys let out a deep breath. "I'm happy for you," he exclaimed, his satisfaction evident in his tone.
"Thanks. That… means a lot coming from you. He said grandfather had already left Evenfall earlier. He's coming here, provided the winds blow into his sails and not against them."
"That's good to hear," Jaehaerys sat beside Baela. "It's hard to deny Lord Corlys's impact on our lives. Father always held him in such high esteem."
"Who wouldn't? My grandfather's the greatest seafarer alive. He's been away from home for too long," Baela shook her head. "But I imagine all those stuck-up, snotty, elitist, arrogant politicians would be more than eager to greet him with a 'welcome home' ceremony when he just recovered. Haah… I don't know how you manage to keep it together around them."
"I have my moments, Baela, believe me."
"You know, I'm glad to hear it." Baela found herself seated closer to her betrothed, her gaze fixed upon him as she took in his strikingly handsome features. However, it was not merely his looks that captivated her, but also the nobility of his character, the kindness in his heart, and the gentle way he treated her. Her mind wandered back to the past few months, and the memory of their first kiss still lingered in her thoughts, making her heart flutter. Jaehaerys had truly captured her heart. "Pffft! Hehehe…"
"Is there something funny?" Jaehaerys raised an eyebrow.
Baela shook her head amusingly. "No, tough guy. It's a shame you never met my mother. She would have liked you," she mentioned.
"You think so?"
"A dashing Targaryen prince and dragonrider? Yeah, she would have talked your ears off about dragons and our ancestral roots going as far back as Old Valyria, the latter was always her favorite topic."
During his lifetime, Jaehaerys had not yet had the pleasure of meeting Laena Velaryon. It is possible that even if he did come into contact with her at some point, he might have been too young to retain any memories of their encounter. However, the fact that Baela had expressed her belief that Laena would have fully supported their romantic relationship held great significance for Jaehaerys. The thought that someone who may have been an important figure in his family's history would have given their blessing to their courtship filled him with a sense of reassurance. "That sounds great, Baela. And from what your grandmother told me about her, Lady Laena must have been a remarkable woman," he said. As his gaze rested upon Baela, his violet irises carefully scanned her figure: her dark Velaryon skin, silver-white hair, and the alluring curves of her physique, taking in every detail from head to toe. Unbeknownst to him, his hand had found its way onto hers, their fingers entwined in a subtle display of intimacy. "But right now, I can't focus on anything but you."
"Oh, really?" Baela smirked mischievously, arching an eyebrow. "Is that supposed to be another cheesy pickup line, Jay? Or do you have something a little more original up your sleeve?"
"A few, but I wouldn't dare besmirch my lady's honor."
"That's good. Because even I have standards. Best keep your brain in your skull, not in your pants. So save it for when we get married, okay, tough guy?"
"I wouldn't dare disrespect you like that, Baela. Not now, not ever," Jaehaerys tenderly lifted his hand, caressing her cheek with a gentle brush of his thumb, his eyes never leaving hers. "The more time I spent with you, I had no idea how much my life would change. Maybe I was scared to admit I had finally found something that gave my life a sense of purpose and direction." The young prince basked in the stunning beauty of his betrothed. "I love you," he confessed.
Baela was taken aback by Jaehaerys's sudden declaration, causing her eyes to widen and her cheeks to flush heavily. She found herself momentarily speechless, completely caught off guard by his proclamation of love. Although they had spent countless hours together these past six years, holding hands, taking walks, swimming, playing games, and sharing kisses, Baela had never expected to hear Jaehaerys confess his love to her so directly. Even when other would-be suitors had made similar declarations in the past, Baela had always known they were insincere. Those other men had their own selfish motives. But with Jaehaerys, she could tell his words were genuine and heartfelt. She listened intently as he spoke, her heart swelling at the depth of his feelings for her. "I-I… W-Wow, Jay… shit, y-you really know how to sweep a girl off her feet with words alone, don't you?" she stammered. Baela never looked away, her face now feeling so very close. "I love you too, tough guy," she reciprocated. "Now shut up and kiss me…"
Tilting his head, Jaehaerys leaned in close, hand still on her cheek, and Baela raised herself to reach him. Their lips brush together, tentatively at first, before leaning in gently and tenderly, taking her soft lips into his. Baela's tongue lazily glides along her lip, drawing from her a soft moan; her sweet smell and taste intoxicate the young prince. Jaehaerys slightly pulls back, with only warm breaths filling the space between him and Baela.
"I love you, Baela Targaryen," Jaehaerys whispers.
"I love you too, Jaehaerys Targaryen," Baela barely said before pressing herself against her betrothed again, her kiss harder and more insistent. Her hands wandered Jaehaerys, feeling every bit of skin and muscle beneath his shirt. By the gods, he was in great shape. Her tongue slides into Jaehaerys's mouth, licking and tasting him. "Mmm…~" Emboldened, her hands brushing against his face as their tongues slid into each other's mouths, dancing and encircling each other. But Baela was never one to be submissive. Grabbing Jaehaerys, she quickly rolls on top of him, pinning him down by his wrists. Now in a dominating position, Baela, her cheeks still flush, was in control. "Still a great kisser, Jay. You damn near took my breath away," she teased, holding his wrists in her grip, and leaned in for another kiss, more passionate and deep than the last.
Jaehaerys lay beneath Baela as they kissed, placing his hands on her back and the base of her neck, keeping her from pulling away. From the muffled moans that escaped her lips, he guessed she was enjoying it. He relished the moment, savoring the warmth of her body against his. However, he knew his boundaries and refrained from venturing further south with his hands. When Jaehaerys connected his lips to Baela's neck, she moaned stiffly, and he couldn't help but feel her shuddering at the slightest touch. The young prince learned more about his betrothed's sensitive spots, most likely due to his Lykirī Mēre training. But either way, Jaehaerys nipped at her neck and suckled on the tender piece of skin, causing Baela to throw her head back and gasp.
"Mmm… oh, Jay…~"
Not wanting to be outdone, Baela inadvertently got back at Jaehaerys for making her feel this way. Both felt a jolt when Baela instinctively found herself grinding on Jaehaerys rhythmically. The young prince felt his desire growing, gripping her hips with his hands like a possessed demon, grinding his hips against Baela's earnestly. Both Targaryens' mouths moved with the other as their tongues met again. They felt their inner core tighten, but as if realizing what they were doing, Baela and Jaehaerys quickly pulled away, ceasing their movements and gasping for breath.
"H-Holy shit…!" Baela gasped, her face deeply flushed.
"S-Seven hells, I am so sorry, Baela," Jaehaerys apologized, his face blushing too.
"N-No, th-that's okay… I guess it's partially my fault too. You were… You're so good at kissing, Jay, and… when you told me you loved me, I-I…"
"I-I got carried away…"
"Y-Yeah, me too." Baela was deeply embarrassed by her lack of self-control. She pondered how her hormones had overtaken her but could not find a satisfying answer. Nonetheless, she was grateful that neither her grandmother, father, sister, cousins, or future-in-laws had walked in on them. The thought of such a scenario was incredibly mortifying and would have been very difficult to explain, especially since her betrothed is now heir to the Iron Throne. However, Baela soon began to feel something poking her. "J-Jay… I-Is that your…?" she glanced down at the bulge in Jaehaerys's pants and realized he had an erection, a sign of his sexual arousal.
Jaehaerys experienced a profound sense of embarrassment, as his upbringing had instilled in him the necessity of exhibiting restraint and self-control at all times; to embody the archetype of the ideal prince. It was highly indecent and inappropriate for him to succumb to a lustful desire for Baela before their formal marriage union. "Sorry…" he murmured, unable to look her in the eye.
With a measured pace, Baela slowly dismounted, granting Jaehaerys the space to stand upright. "I-It's okay…" she awkwardly reassured. "It's… ahem, rather normal, I guess." Oh my gods, how embarrassing! "We should, umm… get back to the others."
"Ah. Y-Yes, we should… Right now."
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Aeonar, now settling into his new role as king, faced the challenge of rebuilding his small council. The previous council members, his former colleagues, had gone rogue after siding with Beatrice and fled the city. Only Lyman Beesbury, Farrier, and Ser Harrold had remained loyal before Ser Criston killed the Master of Coin - accident or not. Aeonar recognized the need to reform the council to help him govern the realm effectively. As such, he was presented with a list of potential candidates to fill the council's vacancies, which he was currently reviewing with great care and consideration.
The Young Dragon rallied his supporters, a faction informally dubbed 'the Black Council' for their allegiance to Aeonar. Amidst the Blacks' ranks and fellow survivors of the Doom, House Celtigar answered the call. Bartimos Celtigar, Lord of Claw Isle, was appointed the new Master of Coin and Lord Treasurer, replacing the deceased Lord Beesbury. Ser William Royce, a distant relative of Lady Rhea, was humbly offered the seat of Master of Laws, replacing Lord Jasper Wylde. Finally, Farrier, the Dragon's most trusted and unwavering agent, stood steadfast as the Master of Whisperers.
Without a Grand Maester, Aeonar assigned his maester, Alwyn, to serve as interim Grand Maester until the Citadel appointed a permanent one.
"I humbly ask for your forgiveness, Your Grace," Alwyn expressed regretfully. His forehead was tightly wrapped with bandages. "I did everything possible to stop Orwyle, but he slipped away when Ser Criston blindsided me. I could not stop him," he admitted with a clear sense of shame.
"No need to apologize. The coup attempt caught us all off-guard. It won't happen again," Aeonar examined the map of Westeros with intense focus. The scattered pieces on the map indicated that the Caltrops had plenty of hiding spots in the south, but Aeonar was determined to track them down, no matter what. Even with Larys Strong as their spymaster, the Caltrops wouldn't be able to hide for long. Aeonar was determined to root them out and put an end to their schemes once and for all.
Otto carefully inspected the map; his brow furrowed in concentration. "I have already sent a raven to Highgarden," he revealed, his voice tinged with a hint of optimism. "With enough persuasion, Lord Lyonel's mother may be more amenable to our cause." The young head of House Tyrell was still in his infancy, leaving his mother, castellan, and steward to govern the Reach in his stead as regents. As the second largest yet most densely populated and fertile region, the Reach was fraught with internal strife, with many bannermen vying for power and seeking to align themselves with either the Blacks or Caltrops. Despite this, several noble houses had already pledged their allegiance to Aeonar, including the Hightowers, Redwynes, Beesburys, Caswells, Costaynes, Mullendores, Tarlys, Rowans, and Grimms.
"This is only just the beginning. But until then…" Aeonar produced a pin from his pocket that had been worn by both him and Lyonel Strong in the past as he sought to acquire ample support to solidify his dominance over the Seven Kingdoms. Aeonar was determined to leave nothing to chance, recognizing the importance of shoring up his political position and military and economic power base. Despite his commitment to his father's wishes, Aeonar knew he had to navigate the challenging path ahead. "Ser Otto Hightower," he placed the badge of office on his father-in-law, "I name you Hand of the King."
Otto's eyes flickered towards the emblem of authority that adorned the reinstated Hand's person once more. With deep respect, he intoned, "Your Grace, it is with utmost honor that I pledge my unwavering service to you, just as I have done for your father and great-grandfather before you." His voice carried a fraction of self-satisfaction as he savored the feeling of the badge of office that was affixed to his chest, though he made no outward display of it. As he stood before the ruler, Otto felt a deep sense of duty and reverence, knowing he was one of the few trusted advisors in the realm.
I care not for your games, Otto, so long as they don't contradict the crown's interests again. It's your mind I need. So don't let this second chance go to waste. And don't mistake me for my father. You answer to me now.
"Your Grace," a loyal knight of House Targaryen announced, "a woman calling herself 'the White Worm' says she has important information exclusively for you and specifically asked for you by name. She refuses to speak to anyone else."
Aeonar glanced at him. I know who she is. "Send her in," she ordered.
After a brief interval, Aeonar's eyes locked onto a familiar face that he immediately recognized. The White Worm, accompanied by a small retinue of humble attendants, slowly drew back her hood to reveal her visage. Despite her apparent age, which appeared to be in the early to mid-fifties, she emanated a youthful aura that belied her years. Her exotic features and non-Westerosi origins only added to her allure. Her long, dark brown locks had been meticulously curled into a ball, exposing her delicate neck to the world. "We meet again, Young Dragon," she said, her accent was thick.
"Mysaria," Aeonar recognized her.
Otto recognized her as well and remembered her name. Daemon's whore. "So you are the mysterious White Worm," he recalled. Naturally, the newly-reinstated Hand of the King recalled receiving information about Rhaenyra from one of her agents during the Summer Festival of 116 AC, which ultimately resulted in his removal from office. "Or are you simply a further peel in this stinking onion?"
Charming, to say the least. "I think it's best if we just move on from the past," Mysaria dismissed, uninterested in their past history. "My condolences on the passing of your king. I understand you two were… reconciling, trying to make up for lost time."
With a poised demeanor, Aeonar meticulously scrutinized every word and approach taken. Everyone has a price. The Young Dragon places a sack filled with gold before his spymaster counterpart, setting aside all distractions to conduct their business. "You said you have something for me," he pressed.
"I thought, the Orange Queen did not have the people's best interest at heart, a council comprised of sycophants who would soon see the unfortunate suffer beneath their heels. I'd best make preparations for one who was more… lesser of the two evils, in case one causes trouble."
"So you knew what Beatrice was up to while I was away."
"Have you ever wondered how your people caught wind of your stepmother's plots, Young Dragon? How the prince stumbled upon the conspiracy? The Orange Queen's spies in the Red Keep tripped over my spies in the Red Keep, who, in turn, told your spies throughout the city," Mysaria revealed. It would appear that her reputation as a spymaster did not go unnoticed. "But I have my own reasons for doing so. A prince, who looked like you, and yet, was not like you."
"Jaehaerys," Aeonar deduced.
Mysaria smiled. "Yes, your son," she stated. "I have been watching him for quite some time since he was just a little boy still wrapped in small clothes. However, I had to scrutinize the true intentions behind his actions. And to my satisfaction, I discovered what I was looking for. I have never seen someone with such a gentle and compassionate soul. Smart enough to bend the wealthy and powerful to his will, yet, never ignoring the sufferings inflicted upon the poor," her countenance then turned severe, signifying the gravity of the situation. "At the tender age of nineteen, he put an end to the savage use of children in Flea Bottom. They were forced to fight, and worse, your gold cloaks took the bribes given to them to look away, but this prince did no such thing and rid the city of such… corrupt obscenity which was either tolerated or ignored. Quite a remarkable for a boy his age to hear our plight, wouldn't you say?"
So… it's neither me nor Beatrice. It's my son you're more invested in.
"When your plots ripen, and both the Blacks and the Caltrops are at each other's throats, remember it was me who gave you a headstart. If I wanted to do worse, I could have looked the other way, killing each plotting as easily as a wasp on fruit. There is no power but what the people allow you to take."
Otto stared coldly at her. "We will remember," he replied.
Aeonar, being a keen observer, had noticed that Mysaria was particularly inclined towards the welfare of the commoners. And yet, Mysaria was interested in Prince Jaehaerys, his eldest son and heir. While this was a laudable trait, it also made her vulnerable to being exploited by either the Blacks or the Caltrops. As the hours passed by, Aeonar could sense the familiar and unpleasant sensation of his nerves twitching and tugging in his head once again.
Chapter End
Author's Note: For this, I had to reintroduce the deleted scene we didn't get to see in the show. Baela refuses to leave King's Landing with her grandmother, which Rhaenys commented that her granddaughter is just like her mother, Laena Velaryon. We are also introduced to a tender moment between Jaehaerys and Baela, ending in a bit of an awkward moment between the two. Don't get too carried away because you're not married yet! While that's going on, Aeonar's been slowly rebuilding the small council with new faces, albeit Otto Hightower is reinstated as Hand of the King. We also come to understand how the Blacks were more alerted to the Caltrops' coup attempt: Mysaria, the White Worm, and her faction were tipped off and chose to inform the Blacks. Moreover, Mysaria isn't interested in either Beatrice or Aeonar - it's Aeonar's son, Jaehaerys, who caught her interest. Why? Let me know.
Guest #1: That was a sweet yet awkward moment for Jaehaerys and Baela, can't wait to see how far they took their relationship. I guess it will be the same as Aeonar and Alicent.
Questions:
1. On a 1v1, who would most likely win, Vaelor or Vhagar?
―Well, it depends on the X-factor. Vhagar is the oldest and largest dragon and a veteran of 100 battles; Vaelor is the fastest dragon in the world and grows at an exceptionally fast rate (now that he's larger than Vermithor) and has fought other dragons before, including Caraxes and the Cannibal (who is twice his size). In the books, for example, if Meleys fought Sunfyre or Vhagar individually, Meleys would have won. But I'll leave that up to you.
2. Is Mysaria sorta attracted to Jaehaerys, sexually or is she in love with him? I hope not.
―No, absolutely not.
3. Will Rhaenys return to King's Landing with Corlys?
―Yes
randomdude24: Jay and Baela so much like Aeonar and Alicent at their age, both in love with one another and have potential for a happy healthy marriage, would like to see them as the endgame.
Interesting choices for the Black Council.
Lord Bartimos Celtigar as Master of Coin, like he is in canon. Hopefully he won't enforce an unnecessary tax policy, those policies are what made Rhaenyra unpopular with the smallfolk.
Ser William Royce as Master of Laws, kinda curious how effective or ineffective he will be, very little information on him other than he tried to save Joffery in canon.
Alwyn as the interim Grand Maester, a man Aeonar trusts to fill the position until a new Grand Maester is elected most likely Munkin will be that replacement. Hopefully he's supportive of Aeonar
Farrier as Master of Whispers, served Aeonar loyally and Viserys as well and was one of the few to stand against Beatrice and her sycophants.
I imagine Coryls will become Master of Ships, who better to serve than him.
Alot of houses openly declaring for Aeonar, which makes the Caltrops claims look weak why should they support Aegon, the only strength they have is he is Viserys "son", the largest dragon at their "control", and was supposedly named heir on Viserys deathbed.
Couple questions, so the Kingsguard who all went with Beatrice? Unwin Peake while he is ambitious a bit like Tywin, but he's not stupid, would there be a point he won't support Beatrice and her insanity?
―Criston Cole and Arryk Cargyll went with Beatrice
―If things were against them, no Unwin wouldn't support her daughter
MichaelBishopone: Will Vhagar hesitate when she realizes she is fighting her own offspring when or if they fight?
―No. No hesitation on either side
C.E.W: So the meeting between Aeonar Targaryen and Mysaria finally came, as it was her who helped Jaehaerys learn of the Caltrops' coup, and organize a city resistance. She seems rather interested in Aeonar's son Jaehaerys as he has shown himself benevolent and caring for the people. Having been in a slave in her own homeland she no longer remembers, growing in fear, and wanting to be liberated from it which is why she went to Westeros, or so she said to Daemon. Mysaria has no doubt seen Jaehaerys' personally help with the city, and free children from the fighting pits, she sees him as worthy for the people.
Jaehaerys and Baela are bent on being together now, having confessed their love for each other. Baela Targaryen refused to run, and hide in High Tide and stood with her betroth, and her king and future father-in-law.
Corlys Velaryon has recovered, and is on his way to King's Landing, to swear allegiance to Aeonar no doubt. Aeonar in turn will no doubt bestow the position of Master of Ships to Lord Corlys. Unlike King Viserys, Aeonar never spurned House Velaryon. He has supported Lord Corlys through the Stepstones, the Crabfeeder, the Triarchy. His eldest son and heir Prince Jaehaerys is due to marry Corlys' eldest granddaughter.
Aeonar has already secured allegiance from several Reach Houses, including House Redwyne and Tarly. The Redwynes are known to have one of the largest fleets in the realm, and House Tarly is known for its produce of fine soldiers. Still awaiting reply from House Tyrell though.
Although blockade of the Gullet is unnecessary, it might be well to put a protection fleet there just in case the Caltrops decide to reach out to Essos, including the Triarchy remnant in desperation. The Riverlands are essential and will be under threat as the Westerlands have an army big enough to overwhelm them. It will take a lot of time for the North to gather its forces, although the Vale will be quicker. The first target the Blacks may need to secure is Harrenhal which can host a host big enough to threaten the capital. Aeonar might send Daemon, and perhaps one of his sons to treat with Lord Tully and head for Harrenhal. Get them surrender if possible, if not, remind the Caltrops why Harrenhal is in its current state.
Questions:
Given most of the dragons are against her, Vhagar's crown as Queen of All Dragons seems have slipped?
―Vhagar has a challenger - her own offspring, Vaelor
Guess Jaehaerys and Baela are getting anxious to marry?
―Yes
Has Mysaria met Jaehaerys personally?
―From afar, yes
How widespread is Mysaria's spy network?
―Mostly centered in King's Landing whereas the other is more widespread
How are Jacaerys and Rhaena adjusting to their betrothal?
―Still going good, strong and healthy
I guess Daemon will be displeased to hear that Otto Hightower reinstated as Hand of the King?
―Yes
Who is Ser William Royce, what's his backstory?
―Not much is known about him, other than he fought for the Blacks in the Dance of the Dragons. In the books, William was one of the 'Seven Who Rode' who went to retrieve Prince Joffrey Velaryon when the Dragonpit was stormed and was one of the three who were killed by the mob.