"He is inside, Your Grace." Ser Raynard said softly, before Daenaera could ask the question.
With a small nod, the 'little queen' was given clear way to enter the King's chambers.
"Aegon?" Daenaera mumbled, as soon as her head stuck inside.
Her husband was slouching in one of the usual chairs near the fireplace. His hand was rubbing at the Targaryen pendant on his gold chain. From what he told her, that had been his mother's pendant…a gift from his father given on the night of their wedding on Dragonstone.
Of course, he felt the need to be close to his mother at a time such as this one. Who could have expected the return of the dragons? She certainly had not. And yet, Daenaera had not even known that he had been trying…alongside Viserys and Visenya.
Her good-sister's confession back in the Dragonpit revealed to Daenaera that deep in his heart, Aegon still cared for the customs of Old Valyria. He still cared for what his mother and father had represented. And despite his fears, he knew that the return of the dragons was imperative for their family. They needed protection. And House Targaryen's main strength had always been shown through dragons, from the day Aegon the Conqueror invaded Westeros with his sisters.
Despite what certain spiteful Westerosi people claimed, the Targaryens always had good intentions for the Realm, and they succeeded in putting an end to the constant wars which threatened the well-being of the smallfolk. The Seven Kingdoms used to tear one another apart. It was only through the fear of the dragons that the Targaryens managed to put them all in line.
Sensing the Targaryens' weakness after the war, had given the most vile of Houses reason to rebel against the Crown, and pose a true threat to the safety of the Realm.
The Targaryens could not afford to let this happen, which is why they needed dragons. Morning would not prove to be enough, especially as inexperienced as she was. And a new hatchling could not be treated as property, to dispose of easily. Even Daenaera, who had not been raised in the Targaryen way, knew that.
What was clear to her eyes was that the Gods above, whoever they may be, had given them a chance at power once more. They needed it to protect their family.
The Queen touched her belly, her mind going back to the moment she saw her poor babe dead in the cradle, a trickle of blood coming from his lips. Her poor boy. Naught was to happen to the child she was carrying now. And Aegon could not be allowed to give into his fears once more and turn his back to their only chance at protection. She herself would see to that.
Sensing her presence, Aegon's big eyes turned to his wife, a dejected expression on his face, as she was well used to by now.
"Visenya is right.", he managed to say, all the while keeping a firm grip on the gold pendant.
"No, she is not, husband. She is filled with anger. This family has been through so much already. I am certain she did not mean what she said." Daenaera replied, moving to take a seat in the other chair next to him.
"Mayhaps not…but there is certain truth to it." Aegon told her, staring at the flames.
He then added, "Mother would have loved me regardless, I am certain. But Father…he would have never accepted what I have become. If he sees me now from…somewhere…I am certain he curses the day he ever considered me his son."
Daenaera gasped, grabbing his free hand, insisting, "Do not speak in such ways. Your father would have understood."
"No…you do not know how my father was. He had been in my life for over ten years. Weakness in a son was not something he would ever accept. He trained us…me and Viserys…he trained us…each day."
"Was he hard on you?"
Aegon nodded, "He was. Wanted me to grow into a powerful man…and look at me now."
"He was preparing for a war. He did not want for his family to be vulnerable. He does not know all you have been through." Daenaera insisted, but Aegon shook his head.
"Father died on dragonback, killing my mother's enemy…bringing down the biggest dragon who opposed her. He died in battle…and as a true Targaryen would. How am I to die? What have I accomplished since I've become king? My father had been knighted at six and ten. King Jaehaerys granted him Dark Sister himself. He conquered the Stepstones, he fought in the war…and ensured our future."
With his mouth now quivering, Aegon added, "I? I cannot even hold Blackfyre for a single moment without feeling tired."
This was the most Daenaera had heard him speak. Aegon did not usually bother with much words. He said what needed to be said with simpler terms, and he was quick to end a discussion. This time…he seemed all too eager to explain to her what was in his heart.
The Broken King, although remaining broken, seemed to have gained more courage in the past days. His manner of speaking attested to that.
"Aegon, you must release the hatchling. He is yours, he…"
"No. I cannot."
"You must. If you care for this family, you will."
"I care for this family. Which is why I will not grant you this request."
"Your family needs protection! Your children need it!" Daenaera told him, feeling her temper rising.
This was not like her. She usually had a calm demeanour about her no matter what. One would say, mayhaps, exaggerated politeness. For the longest of times, such behaviour seemed to be acceptable for Aegon's regents…for it inspired peace and goodwill. It was only now that Daenaera was realizing how damaging it had been. She should have been honest from the beginning…insisted that her voice be heard. For she was the Queen of the Seven Kingdoms, was she not?
Mayhaps she was also at fault for their enemies rising up against them.
"We have the Kingsguard. We have the Gold Cloaks. We have allies. We are protected." Aegon listed, in what he assumed was a reasonable response.
"Your son is dead." Daenaera replied, drily.
That rendered Aegon quiet.
The 'little queen' felt instant regret. This was the last thing she wished for…to wound him with such words, the way Visenya had.
"Aegon…forgive me. 'Tis not your fault. I do not blame you for Baelor. But please, hear my plea. I never thought that this family would have dragons again. The eggs have been cold for years. I was certain that Morning would be our last."
Aegon stiffened when Daenaera leaned closer, gripping his arm.
"This hatchling was born through the power of your hands…and your voice. He has chosen you. But if you do not wish to bond with him, I understand. However, please…for our son…for me…release that hatchling. Allow him to thrive. You cannot blame every single dragon in existence for what happened to your mother.", the Queen wisely told him.
Daenaera's voice was laced with passion and fear at the same time. She was holding onto Aegon's arm as though her life was depending on it. Her other hand was placed on her swollen belly, making Aegon's gaze soften.
"You think he will thrive?"
He was making comparisons between their new hatchling and the blind wyrm which had attacked little Laena Velaryon in her crib.
"I am sure he will. But you must give him a chance to do so. And he is to have a name too."
Aegon stopped rubbing the chain around his neck, and looked once more towards the fire.
"Naming something…creates attachment.", he tried to reason with her, but Daenaera would not hear of it.
"Remember your first dragon. Remember Stormcloud. You told me he saved your life…at the cost of his. He was not fully grown, and yet he carried you across the sea, enduring mortal wounds. He loved you. You may push this new hatchling away, but I know he will have the same devotion towards you."
The King suddenly stood, pacing around the room, his robe dragging behind.
Daenaera watched in silence as he walked to his desk, searching through what appeared to be a book. An old one, at that.
The 'little queen' watched as her husband skimmed through the pages, intent on finding something. And in the end, he did.
Placing a finger to something written inside, Aegon stated, "He shall be named Aegarax, after the God of all creatures. Creator of the first dragon."
There was a small smile on Daenaera's face, as she recognized his attempts to please her.
"Would that be acceptable to you?", he asked softly, looking almost afraid of a possible rejection from her.
"The first of many. Seems fitting." Daenaera replied, hoping with all her heart that her firstborn son would one day have a dragon of his own, as well.
…
Viserys had searched for Visenya around the Red Keep for a long while, asking the maids and the Gold Cloaks if they had seen her. None knew her whereabouts. Which, of course, left her trusted ladies to be questioned.
Unfortunately, they were nowhere to be seen either. According to the maids, they were all preparing for Lady Prudence's departure to the Reach, for her wedding to Lord Lyonel Tyrell.
The only person Viserys could find, was his mother's closest confidant.
"The Princess has gone to the Dragonpit." Elinda informed him.
"Thank you, Elinda." Viserys mumbled and even offered a bow to the woman whose loyalty knew no bounds. Even now, guilt seeped through him as he remembered what he had done to her soon after Baelor's death. How he had kept the poor woman locked in those black cells…had her tortured for information, as was the custom.
Elinda Massey had done plenty for their family, and had been with Queen Rhaenyra until the end. She deserved their full trust…and Viserys felt he had betrayed her.
The Hand could only hope that the match he and Visenya had arranged for Elinda's niece, Elinor, would represent a small compensation for what the woman had endured.
As for Visenya…
Viserys rushed back to the Hill of Rhaenys, where he was hoping his Princess would still be found. She had been most upset after Aegon's decision to chain the poor hatchling as though he were some sort of traitor to the Realm. Although she had managed to speak some harsh words to their brother, Viserys did not believe that this managed to ease Visenya's suffering.
As expected, Viserys saw her sitting on her knees, her purple dress pooled around her, as she attempted to pet the small dragon, with Morning watching from a distance.
Unfortunately, the hatchling did not seem to enjoy her presence, and continued to pull away from Visenya. When the Princess persisted, the young dragon raised its wings menacingly, showing those magnificent dark blue membranes, and let out a hiss.
Morning also let out a shriek, standing on her feet, ready to protect the hatchling at any cost.
"Visenya." Viserys warned, and she eventually pulled back, a frown on her face.
Her cheeks were red, a clear evidence that she had been crying.
"'Tis not fair.", she whispered, and Viserys instantly pulled her in his arms.
She pressed her face to his neck, sniffling.
"The hatchling has chosen Aegon. 'Tis something we must accept, my sweet." Viserys explained, rubbing the back of her neck soothingly.
Pressing his mouth to the crown of her head, Viserys watched as the hatchling wobbled about in his chains, looking around, screeching as though he were searching for someone. There was no doubt in Viserys' mind that Aegon was the object of the dragon's search.
"I have longed for a dragon for so long. And the Gods decide to give him to my ungrateful brother!" Visenya spat, more tears streaming down her face, as Viserys attempted to soothe her through kind words.
"If you wish for a dragon, you shall have one. There are five more eggs to choose from. Pray to the Gods. Do as Aegon did. Chant, touch…and mayhaps the magic of Old Valyria shall give you your heart's desire."
Visenya pulled back from his neck, and Viserys could see her beautiful light-coloured eyes, glistering with evidence of her sadness. It pained him to see her so upset…but he also could not help but be pleased for his brother. He has feared dragons for so long. Mayhaps a hatchling was precisely what he needed. A full-grown dragon would be too much for him, indeed. But should he manage to bond with a smaller creature…more innocent, less menacing, Aegon could be cured of the fears which clouded his judgement.
In the state Visenya was in, he would not dare tell her all of this, or she would think that he was once more favouring Aegon over her. She had made such accusations in the past.
Regardless of how close Viserys felt to his brother, Visenya would always hold a special place in his heart, and naught would change that.
"Vūjigon issa." Kiss me.
Viserys was taken aback by her request. Dragonkeepers could walk inside at any moment and see them. They could not risk it.
And yet, with the way she was looking at him, Viserys knew that he would not be able to resist her.
"Visenya…" he whispered her name lustfully, as her face approached his, her lashes batting rapidly.
Physical connection seemed to be her way of coping whenever something truly bothered her. Viserys was uncertain that this was healthy for her.
"This solves nothing.", he mumbled, trying to make her see that, but was powerless against her charms.
She pressed her lips to his own softly, focussing on nipping at his bottom lip, so as to elicit a reaction.
Viserys, in turn, grabbed her skirts and pulled her even closer, deepening the kiss, and forgetting about any possibility of someone walking inside and seeing them. If she continued to seduce him in such ways, he knew he would not be able to bear it before taking her to bed once more. He needed to find a time to tell Aegon, and immediately ask for permission to court his Princess.
He pressed her against the stone walls of the Dragonpit, ignoring the screeches of both Morning and the small hatchling.
Visenya mewled the moment his lips began sucking at the skin of her collarbone. Her dress had been pulled down and was now exposing both her shoulders, as well as the top of her breasts.
His hand was now reaching underneath her skirts, all the way to her entrance, where he knew he could bring her a whole lot of pleasure. Viserys proved to be quite skilful with his fingers.
Visenya bit her lip and closed her eyes, leaning her head back as she began feeling his ministrations. She thought he would be just as generous with his words. Alas, she had been mistaken.
Pressing his lips to her ear, he whispered, "You would not consider the moon tea?", all the while still pushing and pulling his fingers in and out.
The Princess found herself moaning, but a frown still creased her brows.
How dare he speak of such things now?! I ought to slap him.
And yet, her body continued to chase after the long-awaited pleasure. Grunting, Viserys continued to indulge her, as his lips moved to the top of her breasts.
Her climax hit her the moment he began sucking on one of her nipples. Visenya gasped as she opened her eyes, not being able to see properly.
She whispered his name as she came down from her high and Viserys could do naught but grin. He loved the attention more than anything. He loved that it was him and only him who had a taste of everything she had to offer. And soon enough, he would take her as his wife…as he had always been destined to.
He expected more affection to follow for the pleasure he had provided her with. However, all Viserys received was a slap, as soon as Visenya had regained her senses.
Shocked, Viserys pulled back and covered that part of his face, as he watched her rearrange herself in a huff.
"What do you think you are doing?!", he questioned her, as he rubbed his cheek to soothe the pain.
The rings on her fingers had done quite some damage.
"You are constantly trying to erase any possible evidence of our coupling and I grow tired of it!" Visenya hissed at him, as she ran her fingers through her hair and looked around the pit, making certain that no one aside from them and the dragons was present.
Viserys gaped at her, and stated, "I worry for your reputation! It astounds me that you cannot understand that!"
With her nostrils flaring in anger and defiance, Visenya replied, "What I understand is that you do not want to admit how much you actually want me! You do not want to marry me, and you do not want me to have your child!"
"Hush, now!"
Viserys rushed forward and cupped her cheek roughly, pulling her face close to his own, before smashing their lips together.
He kissed her with as much passion as he could, forcing her to reciprocate.
There was a gentleness about his ways when he eventually pulled back. Kissing her forehead, he whispered, "You are wrong, sweetling. I want you. I want us."
"Pār skoro syt se hūra sūmar?" Then, why the moon tea?
"Kesrio syt nyke daor ivestragī ao pryjagon aōha vok." Because I cannot let you destroy your innocence.
"Yn nyke emagon." But I have.
"Daorys gīmigon. Se daorys ēdruta gīmigon." No one knows. And no one must know.
His concern for her reputation brought a smile to her face, as she wrapped her hands slowly around his shoulders.
Batting her lashes once more, she asked, "Kessa ao dīnagon nyke?" Will you marry me?
Matching lilac-coloured eyes maintained an intense gaze, almost as though they were each looking for one another's deepest desire.
"Kessa. Kesan epagon Aegon syt rual." Yes. I will ask Aegon for permission.
Visenya's eyes brightened instantly, and her sweet petaled lips pressed against his once more.
Footsteps were heard on the stone floor from right outside the Dragonpit, and the two pulled apart on instinct.
Viserys' heart was beating wildly, as he looked towards the entrance to see Rhaena joining them with a smile on her face.
The Hand was not certain whether or not she actually saw something.
Nevertheless, she seemed more preoccupied with greeting her mount, before telling them, "I am not surprised to see you here. It would seem we are all more fascinated about the hatchling than Aegon is."
Morning let out a small whining sound, as she pushed her snout to Rhaena's belly, as though sensing another life being formed.
"She knows." Visenya mumbled, as she watched the pink she-dragon show affection to her rider.
"Of course, she does. Dragons are quite intelligent…insightful. She smelled me a mile away. My beauty." Rhaena stated with a giggle, as Morning continued to sniff at her belly.
"We have all been blessed by the Fourteen Flames." Visenya acknowledged proudly. It was not a mere happening that after over four and ten years of trying, Rhaena should find herself with child now.
The Princess could not help but feel a pang of jealousy at the beautiful sight before her. A married woman, carrying a child in her belly, and a mount all of her own. When would Visenya herself know such fortune? Would she ever?
"I never expected the return of dragons. And yet, here we are. My Morning will not be lonesome anymore." Rhaena was saying, as she watched the hatchling wobble around in a circle, still in his chains.
Morning once more let out a shriek of disapproval.
"Someone needs to speak to Aegon. Make him see reason." Rhaena stated, and looked pointedly at Viserys, in clear indication that he was the only one who always managed to influence his brother to make the right decisions.
With a tsk, Viserys shook his head, replying, "His fear of dragons surpasses my powers of persuasion. I cannot help him this time. He needs to understand what that hatchling means for our family, all on his own."
"And what if he does not?" Visenya asked softly.
Neither Viserys nor Rhaena could offer a response.
…
"I want to see the hatchling, Mama! Can we please go to the Dragonpit?" Laena Velaryon exclaimed, flouncing about the room in her teal dress, her silver-gold hair flowing freely behind, as she was trying to catch Monkey by the tail.
The poor creature, as loud as she was, remained powerless, for when Laena Velaryon wanted something, she would have it. And such a thing would prove to be true the moment her father entered the room.
Baela was standing with a cup of Arbor Gold in one hand, whilst keeping her other hand on her hip. Thoughts of her own consumed her about the events which have come to pass. Rhaena had a dragon born to her. Now, Aegon.
What of her? Losing Moondancer had been painful, but that had not stopped Baela from dreaming of another mount of her own, hence why she had kept her hair cropped. She just never deemed it possible until this day, which is why she had put the matter to rest. But now, things were different. And she desired to fly again. The same could not be said for Aegon.
Baela took another large gulp of the sweet wine.
The Gods surely did not like her.
"Mama! I want to go to the Dragonpit now!" Laena repeated, almost whining, after she had finally stopped chasing after Monkey.
The girl may have been one and ten years of age, but she still had the mind of a child of five, many would say. The septas would oft be heard mumbling about how Lady Baela's pet monkey was better fit to become a lady of House Velaryon. Of course, they would never dare say such things to the face of the girl's mother.
Before Baela could respond, Alyn's face had contorted with displeasure, as he approached them.
"No!", he replied firmly.
"But, Papa, please!" Laena pleaded and adorably, grasped his tunic with her hands, batting her lashes in what she hoped would be a convincing way.
Far too much of a child this girl was…but a lovable one, and even Alyn could not help but smile for a moment when he gazed down at his only child.
His eyes wandered over to the sleeve that covered his sweet girl's injury, and his face hardened once more.
"I said no, Laena!" he exclaimed and pushed his daughter's hands off him, just as Baela scoffed.
"You are predictable, husband. I would never expect you to agree to something.", his wife mumbled, and then downed her wine, before adding, "Were I even to be consulted before you made this decision?"
Laena's bottom lip trembled, as she walked away, with Monkey trailing close behind.
Approaching his wife, Alyn raised his eyebrow. "You would think this a small matter? After you know what I had to endure, walking in that room, seeing the very moment that beast nearly tore our child's entire arm?"
"You cannot shield her for the rest of her life! 'Tis why she is the way she is now. She has no friends aside from Visenya. She spends all her time with Monkey, and cares not about anything but those damn dresses."
"You accuse me of spoiling our daughter?"
Baela smirked, replying, "Precisely."
"I believe you've had enough to drink. You're starting to act like your sister." Alyn pointed out, referring to Rhaena.
"I have better reasons to drink than my sister does!" Baela snapped at him, greatly despising anyone who would dare tell her when or if she's had enough of something. It would only be up to her to decide.
Ignoring her last comment, Alyn pointed a finger at her and hissed, "I have watched our daughter be attacked by one of those creatures and I shall not do it again. I do not care if all those eggs hatch. She will not have a dragon!"
"You cannot decide that for her."
"Yes, I can. I am the Lord of Driftmark and I shall have no dragon residing there, not for anything. And if she wishes to continue residing there, she will have to obey her lord father, unless she wishes to be sent away."
Alyn's harsh words came not without a tinge of fear…one Baela did not recognize. Alyn was many things, but fearful was not a word to describe him. His bravery knew no bounds. But this was his daughter…and Baela was beginning to realize that she was unjustly using Laena as a shield for her own unhappiness.
With a sigh, she placed her cup on the table, and leaned her head back, speaking as though to the Gods above, "I am pleased to see that you care for our daughter's wellbeing."
Alyn nodded silently, but still waiting, since he knew her well enough to know that she would still insist on seeing things her way.
"But I still believe you to be cruel. You cannot stop a bond forging between a dragon and his chosen rider. You must never temper with the magic of Old Valyria, especially not now, when we have so little of it." Baela explained.
"I do not understand…" Alyn began saying, but Baela cut him off, by telling him, "You are right. You do not understand, for you are not a Targaryen."
There was a smirk on her face, and a glint in her eyes, noticing how hurt he seemed by her words. She knew his weak spot. His own legitimacy. Telling him that he was not a Targaryen was close to telling him that he was no true Velaryon either.
Queen Rhaenyra had legitimized Alyn and his brother, Addam, upon the request of her hand, Lord Corlys Velaryon. However, even though the legitimacy was considered intact by the will of a past ruling monarch, there were always people who would never accept a born bastard to be anything but. Alyn himself had experienced such a thing during his first years as Lord of Driftmark.
The mention of his legitimacy should have ignited the sparks of conflict.
But to Baela's surprise, Alyn did not put up a fight, as she expected him to. Their marriage was based on confrontations. Sometimes, that would lead to some great lovemaking. Other times, the desire to strangle one another to death.
And yet…she watched the way his eyes softened, as he told her truthfully, "I will do whatever it takes to protect Laena."
That, she did believe from his mouth. Baela had seen Alyn act like a true father to her…when he was around, at least, and not off on one of his voyages.
His affections of Laena were touching, and Baela could not help but let her guard down.
"As will I. But you will not be able to shield her from the world forever. She has a weakened arm. It shall only give her strength later on in life. I have faith in her. As should you.", she admitted.
"I do. But I do not have faith in those beasts you adore so much." Alyn confirmed.
"This hatchling is not like the last one."
"How would you know that?"
"Because I am my father's daughter. And I know dragons." Baela reasoned, but Alyn did not seem impressed by her answer.
Sighing, Baela walked over to him and pressed her hand to his chest.
"I appreciate your care for her. I really do. But she is part Targaryen, and if she is like me when it comes to dragons, you will not be able to stop her from claiming one when the time comes.", she told him in a comforting manner.
He gazed down into her eyes, and covered her hand with his, as though afraid she would retract her warmth.
"Forgive me.", he found himself whispering.
Baela closed her eyes, knowing full well to what he was referring to.
"Baela…", she heard his soft voice.
In truth, she had grown tired of holding onto so much anger. She was still terribly cross, of course, but with all that's happened in this past year, Baela began realizing there were more important things to consider. And if she wanted her daughter to grow up strong and healthy, she would need proper parents to stand by her side. A mother and a father who would support one another as well.
Opening her eyes, Baela regarded him seriously.
"Continue applying sweetness…and kindness towards Laena, Alyn…and mayhaps we could grow to live together peacefully.", she found herself telling him.
"'Tis not enough for me."
"'Tis not enough for me either. I did not marry you so we would live this way. I escaped an unwanted match, defied the Council, because I wanted to choose my own husband. A husband with whom I would be madly in love. And I chose you."
Her words seemed to move him, until she asked, "Did I choose wrong, I wonder?"
"No!" Alyn replied, taking her hand and pressing a firm kiss on her palm. "You did not."
"Then prove it."
"How?"
"Show devotion to this family. Stop travelling as much and abandoning us. Prove yourself to be a true Lord of Driftmark, and…show me why you want me to continue being your wife." Baela told him, decisively.
Gazing deep into her eyes, Alyn could only offer a firm nod, before pulling her in for a kiss.
…
There was naught that could drag Visenya away from that Dragonpit, and away from the broken-hearted, little hatchling, who still would not accept anyone aside from his chosen rider. The only exception proved to be the preparation of Lady Prudence's belongings, as she was to leave for the Reach.
"I told you Visenya would arrange a good match for you, just as she did for Elinor. You needed naught but patience." Little Jeyne told Prudence calmly, as she arranged a beautiful dress the colour of gold for her companion.
Sighing, Prudence rolled her eyes but a smile tugged at her lips, knowing deep down that the lady of House Arryn proved to be correct…as she oft was. The girl who would one day become the Lady of the entire Vale was wise beyond her years…especially in matters of the heart.
However, Prudence and Sarra both feared that Little Jeyne was blind when it came to her own romantic entanglements. Both girls agreed that despite the Crown's Master of Coin being quite handsome and having amassed a great amount of wealth, Isembard Arryn was not to be trusted.
The rebellion in the Vale, which had taken place soon after the war, could not be so easily forgotten by a girl who hoped to make history and become the second Lady Jeyne Arryn of the Eyrie.
Ser Corwyn himself had taken the time during evening meals to explain the horrors which he had endured when he had fought in the name of the current Lord Joffrey Arryn.
Sarra Stark remembered his chilling words, as she had been hidden behind the walls, eager to hear stories of war.
"Naught but blood stained the cold stone ground we stepped on as we reached the Eyrie. Heavy losses. Over three thousand men dead. At least five hundred of those who lived, bore injuries to last a lifetime. The sellswords which had been bought from across the narrow sea, had savaged our lands. But with the strength of House Velaryon, Isembard had been forced to bend the knee to Lord Joffrey at long last.", Corwyn told them all, his eyes warm, yet tired, as he explained how much people tended to ignore the tragedy in the Vale, simply because it did not measure up to a war between dragons.
"Hear, hear!" Alyn exclaimed, raising his cup, remembering his own contribution in respecting the late Lady Jeyne's wishes and installing the rightful heir on the seat of the Eyrie.
Isembard Arryn had been the furthest of cousins in the line of succession…yet, he had been the richest. And through the sellswords he had bought from Essos, he had managed to lay waste to the Vale, for the sake of power.
Prudence and Sarra both wondered how Little Jeyne could want a man like that in her life, much less as her husband, when she takes the seat he had always coveted.
"Your hair is as golden as the rose of House Tyrell. You were made to become the Lady of Highgarden." Little Jeyne continued with her flatteries, making Prudence raise her eyebrows in surprise.
"You do not need to continue pretending that you would miss my absence, Little Jeyne. Sarra does not bother so." Prudence pointed towards the younger Stark girl, who was busying herself by sharpening her bow.
"Come now! Must the two of you continue your nonsense even on this last day we are all together?" Visenya asked them with a giggle, but then her face turned serious, when she realized the true meaning of her words.
The Princess had already lost one lady-in-waiting to the Westerlands. She was about to lose another, her favourite even, to the Reach.
Noticing the Princess' distress, Prudence walked towards her and boldly pulled her into an embrace.
"I will continue to serve you, Visenya. Just as my namesake served Queen Alysanne. I will never forget what you have done for me.", the young lady of Claw Isle told her.
"I hardly gave you a choice in the matter though." Visenya said, as soon as they pulled back.
"But I did choose him, and you were kind enough to allow this match to happen. And Highgarden has never had a lady of House Celtigar. You have done me and my family a great service. You have honoured us. My father wrote to me. He claims that we are forever in your debt. You are soon to receive a raven as well. My father had much appreciation for Queen Rhaenyra when he was young, and I feel you have now won him over as well." Prudence explained with a giggle.
Visenya could only smile. She could pretend that she had done this for her friend alone…though, that was hardly the truth of it.
She opened her mouth so as to say just that, when she remembered Viserys' words. They had not even told Aegon and Daenaera about what had transpired between them. And although Visenya knew that her ladies could be trusted, the risk was too great. She was a princess of the Realm and as such, could not afford to have a reputation as her own former lady, Elinor Massey.
"I wish you luck, Prudence.", was the one thing Visenya could say, and her lady's deep blue eyes shined bright with happiness.
Unlike Elinor, Prudence was to benefit from a love match, and her marriage was certain to be happier for it.
…
Parting with Prudence had left Visenya in a state of loneliness. Her first instinct had been to head to Viserys' chambers, only to be told by Ser Dennis that her brother was locked up in the Tower of the Hand, handling matters of State.
For a moment, Visenya thought of being devious, sneak up in there and convince Viserys to a respite, so as they could…explore more of one another.
However, the more rational side of her instantly realized that she was the reason why Viserys had been kept away from his work for so long. Since the brothel incident, she had held the entirety of Viserys' attention. So much so, that he had even agreed to let her sit in on the Council meetings once more, even without an official position.
But now, the Realm needed him as well. Visenya was spoiled, indeed, and she was determined not to share him with anyone. But what he was doing, it was for the good of them all. Enemies were still hiding in the shadows, waiting for a chance to strike. The Hand of the King needed to be vigilant, and anticipate their actions.
And so, Visenya made her way to the one place which seemed to bring her much joy…the Dragonpit.
Up the Hill of Rhaenys she went, all the while thinking about how much closer she had started to feel to her mother and father since they had sung to the Fourteen Flames.
Upon reaching the entrance of the Dragonpit, Visenya recognized Morning's soft whines, and she believed that Rhaena was once more visiting her mount.
That could not be further from the truth.
With a hand on the wall, to hold her in place, Visenya watched, wide-eyed, as Aegon was on his knees once more, a black cloak enveloping him.
The King was offering meats to the small hatchling.
Visenya remained frozen in shock as she noticed that the small dragon had been released of his chains. He was letting loose a few pleasant sounds, as he pushed his small snout against Aegon's hand, begging for affection.
And so, Aegon obliged. Slowly, but surely, his fingers began trailing the small hatchling gently, making Visenya smile.
"Gīda, Aegarax." Patience, Aegarax.
He has named him! He has accepted him as his mount!
Had he been influenced by her words, or had it been Daenaera? Visenya was certain that the 'little queen' would advocate in favour of their dragons.
As excited as she had been, Visenya had managed to expose herself with just a few giggles.
Aegon instantly turned his head in her direction. His muscles instantly relaxed once he realized that it was only her.
He gave her a swift nod, and then turned back towards the small hatchling, who was demanding his attention.
Taking that as permission to move closer, Visenya took the necessary steps, and, mesmerized by the small grey hatchling, got on her knees, not caring that she may be ruining her dress.
For a moment, they remained in silence. Aegon welcomed his sister's presence, as there was no tension to be felt. The hatchling looked between the two of them curiously.
Visenya looked on ahead to the small dragon who had started chasing its own tail, thinking of what she could say to him. She had been far too cold, and her reaction had been much too exaggerated, as Viserys would say.
Eventually, the Princess decided asking, "Aegarax?"
Aegon nodded almost at once, adding, "From Father's scrolls."
Visenya knew them well. In fact, she was the one who had given them to Aegon.
"I know. The God of all creatures. Creator of the first dragon. He really is the first of many, is he not? Seems fitting."
"As Daenaera also said."
Visenya smiled to herself, pleased to know that the 'little queen' had acted just as she had hoped.
Directing her gaze to her brother, Visenya noticed Aegon's concentration on his new pet.
He was making an effort, despite his fears…and Visenya could not help but feel guilt seeping in at what she had told him. She was certain that she was wrong. Even if their father had been the way he was…he would not have turned his back on his firstborn son, regardless what became of him.
"Aegon…I did not mean what I said.", Visenya managed to whisper, as her fingers began to turn the rings once more.
It was at that moment, that she noticed him become tense.
Aegarax himself felt it, and he let out a whimper, pushing his snout against Aegon's leg, almost in comfort.
"Harsh words…but truthful ones. I am not what Mother and Father would have wanted for a firstborn son and heir. Viserys should have been king.", he eventually replied.
"'Tis not true. The blood of the dragon runs hotly inside Viserys and myself. Sometimes, mayhaps, it proves to be too hot. The Realm needed a peaceful king to rebuild it after the war. You were made for that." Visenya argued.
Aegon nodded, contemplating her words, and asked in a whisper, "And now?"
Taking his hand in hers, Visenya stated, "Now…we are still in need of peace. And you know that. Mother and Father would have both understood this as well. And I know in my heart that they would have understood your pain. I was wrong…and I beg your forgiveness."
Her pleas reached Aegon's heart, and the King brushed his fingers against her hand reassuringly.
"There is naught to forgive. As cross as you tend to get with me, I know your intentions are pure, Visenya.", he replied.
A small smile teased at his lips, and Visenya could not help but grin in return. It was not oft that Aegon would show one of his smiles. He allowed her the honour this time.
Turning back towards the hatchling, Aegon's hands trembled as they reached for him.
Aegarax let out a shriek but did not pull away. The small dragon had not been held until now, and so the feeling felt foreign to him...but not unwelcome.
Visenya watched with disbelief as the King who had been named the Dragonbane, took such a creature into his arms, holding him tightly, as though afraid he would fall.
Mayhaps, this was the moment that Aegon began regarding Aegarax as he once did Stormcloud…and not as the dragon who had killed his mother in front of him.
His sister could not be prouder, as she watched the grey hatchling nuzzle the King's chin with affection.
"Henceforth…he shall reside in my rooms." Aegon declared, making Visenya's heart leap with joy.
A/N: Thank you all for reading! The update is on Ao3 as well. We are moving onto the third plot of the story next chapter, and it will be pretty intense.