84 AC
All the members of the Kingsguard marched in unison towards the chambers of the lady in question…or rather the Princess. King Jaehaerys had done his best to remain as calm as one could possibly be in such a situation, but upon hearing all that the squires, grooms and maids had to say on the matter, his anger had touched even his most loyal members of the Kingsguard. The men had been most understanding of the King's wrath and now marched to do his bidding.
And they were not alone. For the Lord Commander of the City Watch, Ser Robert Redwyne, was joining them as well.
They had not bothered knocking, and simply entered the room, surprising all the maids who were busying themselves about the chambers.
In the back, raising herself from her canopy bed, wearing a pink dress, adorned with many white pearls, was none other than the Princess Saera Targaryen.
"You barge in here without my leave, Ser Gyles!", she hissed.
"Princess Saera! The King, your father, requests your presence in the Great Hall!" the Lord Commander of the Kingsguard, Ser Gyles Morrigen, replied.
"Oh? And could he not have sent but one dog? I am but a girl of nearly seven-and-ten. How am I to fight you?"
"Do not make this unpleasant, Princess. Come with us now."
Ser Gyles was slowly but surely forgetting that respect upon a Targaryen Princess was imposed. But this girl was no princess. She had shamed her father and the crown he bore. If it had been a daughter of his own…Ser Gyles would have had her beaten to a pulp.
Saera Targaryen had grown accustomed to the privileges, and had been given free rein to do as she pleased. And she surely took advantage of that.
With a scoff, the Princess did as she was bid. Holding her head up high, she went on ahead of the Kingsguard and the Lord Commander of the City Watch, all the way to the Great Hall. Yet despite her obvious arrogance, Ser Gyles could see the fear in her eyes. She knew perfectly well now that what she had done had reached the ears of her mother and father. And this time, she would not escape punishment.
King Jaehaerys Targaryen was seated upon the throne, when his daughter was practically forced inside the room. Queen Alysanne was standing by his side.
Fortunately for Saera, none of her brothers, nor sisters were present, to witness this humiliation.
Alyssa could not be expected for this, of course, as she was in her confinement, ready to give Baelon a third child. Aemon and his wife, Jocelyn Baratheon, were on a royal progress with their daughter, Rhaenys. Maegelle and Vaegon were both gone from Court. Daella was dead, Viserra could not be bothered, and Gael was far too young to witness this.
Saera did at least hope to have Viserra's support. She was sure her younger sister would understand. But of course, Saera could not blame her for caring about her own future, and not wanting to share their father's wrath with her.
And so, it was to be just her, facing the disapproving gazes of their mother and father, as she, Vaegon and Viserra were quite used to. And all the members of the Kingsguard were to witness this, as well. As did Barth, the Hand of the King, and her father's favourite advisor.
Without so much as a greeting, Jaehaerys' voice boomed through the Great Hall.
"Do you have any idea what you have subjected yourself to?!"
"I am sure you will be the one to tell me, Father."
"We know what you have done to Tom Turnip. And we know of your escapade to the Blue Pearl with Ser Braxton Beesbury, Lord Roy Connington and Lord Jonah Mooton."
"I told them to do it, but I never thought they would." Saera attempted to justify herself. "That must have been so funny, Turnip dancing with the whores."
"Not for Tom." Jaehaerys replied, softly.
"He is a fool. Fools are meant to be laughed at, where is the harm in that? Turnip loves it when you laugh at him." Saera told him with a shrug.
Queen Alysanne's voice had started ringing this time, in support of her husband.
"It was a cruel jape, but just now there are other matters that concern me more. I have been speaking with your ladies. Are you aware that Alys Turnberry is with child?", the Good Queen asked, her eyes darkening at her daughter's display of cruelty.
However, at the mention of Alys' condition, Saera seemed to soften, as she gazed towards the ground.
"My Sweetberry? Truly? She…oh, what has she done? Oh, my sweet little fool.", she whispered to herself.
Unimpressed by her worries, Alysanne accused, "You know perfectly well what she has done. What all of you have done. We will have the truth from you now, child."
Unfortunately, her words seemed to fall on death ears, as Saera had a couple thoughts of her own to make known.
"Mother, you have not been yourself since Daella's death…", the Princess had started saying, but Jaehaerys' words stopped her at once.
"Silence, you insolent girl!"
Insolent? That was certainly not a word Saera would have used for herself. She was oft misunderstood, especially by her mother and father.
She had not meant to lace her words with cruelty. She had simply pointed out a truth. Daella had meant the world to their mother. Her older sister had been troubled from birth…and weak too, which is the reason why Saera suspected she died giving birth to her very first child, Aemma. Her body simply could not handle the hard labours.
And their mother, instead of giving the same amount of affection to all her children, had always favoured Daella, simply because she was different. Her 'little flower', Alysanne used to call her.
Saera would oft grit her teeth when she heard. She had never received a kind word from her mother. And her father…well, Saera was certain that her mother had managed to turn him against her, from the looks of things.
With her jaw clenched, Saera bit back, "I meant no disrespect! I was simply pointing out to Mother that she is still grieving, even after two years have passed. Her judgement may not be the best..."
"You are not here to speak of your mother! You are here to attest for your actions! For your sins!"
Sins? Saera could sense Septa Maegelle's own words spoken from his mouth. There was no doubt in her mind that her older sister had been consulted on the matter already.
"My sins? Father…I realize that I may be more outspoken than my other sisters, and love to play the jester, but I can assure you…I am no sinner."
The way she spoke…as if all this was naught but a spectacle for her to enjoy.
"She is an evil child.", a septa had once told the King.
Jaehaerys, despite knowing of his daughter's love for pranks, always thought the septa's words to be an exaggeration…until this day.
"Lie to us again, and it will go very much worse for you. Your three lords are in the dungeons, you ought know, and what you say next may determine where you sleep tonight.", the King stated from his throne.
Saera's eyes widened at the news of what became of her three favourites, and as such, was rendered silent.
"They all lie. Is that what you are telling me? Your friends, the three men who claim to have taken you to bed, the squires, the maids, the grooms, and the fool Tom Turnip himself. They all lie, you say?!" Jaehaerys challenged her, almost getting up from the throne in anger.
"Yes, they do!" Saera replied, stubbornly.
Jaehaerys leaned back in this chair of swords, regarding the girl with astonishment. She could not have possibly come from his seed.
"You are a most ungrateful child.", he managed to say softly, disappointment overcoming his fury.
Saera simply crossed her hands over her chest, and exclaimed, "I have done naught but what the Gods wished of me! They made me so! They made into a jester, but they also made me pretty. They made me desirable. They made every man in the Seven Kingdoms lust for my body. Who am I to deny them?"
"A Princess of the Realm!" Jaehaerys roared in response, not knowing what else to say to make her see reason.
She had denied the accusations at first, and now, she had all but admitted to have engaged in sexual acts in that brothel.
When Saera had been silenced, Jaehaerys let out a sigh, and asked, "What have you done? Seven save us! What have you done? Have you given one of these boys your maidenhead? Tell me true."
He wanted a straight answer from her lips. And he wished with all his heart, that she would confess. Admit what she had done, and ask for mercy, for he would grant it. Despite how she was, she was still his daughter.
But Saera would only find the matter even more laughable.
"True? No. I gave it to all three. They all think they were the first. Boys are such silly fools.", she attempted to jest, as this was her way of avoiding any unpleasantness.
What did her father expect from her? She did what she did, and she did not regret the feelings of pleasure she had experienced one bit. For she knew that neither her father, nor her mother, would arrange a suitable match for her. No one worthy enough of her hand. And so, what would have been the point of saving her maidenhead? Just to give a small, pathetic lordling the chance to taste first what she had to offer? No. She had given her maidenhead to whom she deemed fit.
"You are very proud of yourself, I see. A woman grown, and nearly seven-and-ten. I am sure you think you have been very clever, but it is one thing to be clever and another to be wise. What do you imagine will happen now, Saera?" Jaehaerys asked, bitterly.
In truth, she herself did not know which of the three had taken her first, for she could not remember. And as such, there was only one solution she could propose.
"Since these men have left me without my maidenhead, I suppose I shall need to marry then, so I can save my reputation."
"Marry?" Jaehaerys asked, as Alysanne remained stoic.
"Yes. I will be married," the Princess stated. "Why shouldn't I be? You were married at my age. I shall be wedded and bedded, but to whom? Jonah and Roy both love me, I could take one of them, but they are both such boys. Stinger does not love me, but he makes me laugh and sometimes makes me scream. I could marry all three of them, why not? Why should I have just one husband? The Conqueror had two wives, and Maegor had six or eight."
At the mention of his usurping uncle, King Jaehaerys could feel his anger grow, and he had decided he had heard enough.
To have his own flesh and blood suggest such a thing…
"You would compare yourself to Maegor? Is that who you aspire to be? You are no longer a daughter of mine!" Jaehaerys stated firmly, and even Alysanne appeared to be shocked.
Saera could only scoff, even though she did feel her insides beginning to hurt at the venom in her father's voice.
Truthfully, even as lustful as she was used to being, Saera did not believe that she would have done this if a small part of her did not hope that she would be caught. For then, she would be the one to which all attention would be given. And that was something that had never happened before.
Her father only ever cared about Aemon and Baelon, even if he would not outright admit it. His two dragon warriors. None could ever hope to surpass them in the King's eyes.
And her mother would only ever favour her darling Daella. Even after the girl had been married off to Lord Rodrik Arryn, Alysanne would oft travel to the Vale in order to be with her. And now with Daella gone, Alysanne was trying to replace her with Saera's four-year-old sister, Gael.
Saera knew that Vaegon, Viserra and her were the unwanted…the disappointments. The children their mother and father wished they never had.
One way or another, Saera knew that she would find a way to pay them all back for the neglect.
"Get her out of my sight! She is to remain in her bedchambers, under guard!" King Jaehaerys ordered his Kingsguard.
Saera did struggle. She would not go quietly.
Rushing towards the throne, Saera ended up on her knees, in hopes that her tears would convince him to change his mind.
"Father! Father!", she pleaded, desperately.
But her father would not hear her cries. And so, the tears had dried almost instantly.
Taking in her father's words, Saera straightened herself and exclaimed with venom, "One day, this House will burn! And it will be your doing!"
She did not know if this was just speculation on her part, or wishful thinking.
The men of the Kingsguard did eventually manage to restrain her, and take her out of the Great Hall before she could anger her father even more.
…
145 AC
The waves crashed loudly into the empty sand beach of Dragonstone.
As dusk approached, the only sounds which could be heard were that of vows. Promises to uphold a most wanted marriage, between a Prince and a Princess of House Targaryen.
Like their mother and father before them, Viserys and Visenya stood before the septon of the Faith, pronouncing their vows with much emotion. Both were dressed in Targaryen black and red. The colours of their House. Fire and blood.
As soon as the septon of the Faith had pronounced them wed, Viserys pulled his Princess into his arms and kissed her deeply.
No more delays. After all they had been through, the time has come for them to finally acknowledge one another as husband and wife.
But all was not finished…for the fire in them both roared, and reached its peak. They were the blood of Old Valyria, and as such, desired for their own Valyrian Gods to recognize and bless their union.
It did not prove to be as difficult as Viserys had expected. He had found a priest of Old Valyria right on this island. Upon hearing his request, the old priest smiled, as he had gone to retrieve his old book. He had explained to Viserys how unfortunate it was that so many Targaryen marriages had come and gone, without having been recognized by the Old Gods, for these members had chosen to wed only under the Seven.
But not Viserys and Visenya…
The Princess had been most pleased to hear that they would be following the traditions of Old Valyria. It did not seem foreign to them at all…not after the chanting in the Dragonpit, and the blessings granted to them by the Fourteen Flames.
And mayhaps after her child was born, more of them would follow.
And so, the Prince and Princess of House Targaryen repeated vows once more. But these proved to be of more significance. Despite the family's conversion to the Faith of the Seven, their blood called out for the support and approval of their own Old Valyrian Gods. For these Gods were the ones who had allowed the return of dragons. They had been the ones who had blessed King Aegon's hands, as well as his voice, allowing him to hatch a dragon's egg.
Viserys had arranged for a ceremony of the Seven, to please the common folk of Westeros of the legitimacy of their marriage. But it was before the Gods of Old Valyria, that the Prince and the Princess felt themselves truly united as one.
One flesh. One blood.
A second passionate kiss followed as soon as the ceremony was finished. And the husband could finally take his wife to bed.
Aside from the maester and the castellan, there were many other servants on Dragonstone who could attest to the consummation of their union.
Taking his Princess to bed, Viserys had made certain that her screams of pleasure echoed between the walls of Sea Dragon Tower.
Their skin glowed in the moonlight as they reached their peaks.
With sweat dripping down his forehead, Viserys reached between the sheets in order to touch his Princess' belly…the one where their child now nestled.
The morning sickness persisted, but it was now better for Visenya to handle. She was so pleased to be carrying this child…their child, that it no longer mattered to her. She could hardly wait for the moons to pass, and for them to welcome their first babe into the world.
The two now regarded one another with adoration, inspecting their naked bodies with mischievous gazes.
Thankfully, as their good Maester Karden explained, making love would not be harmful to the child. Viserys thanked the Gods for such splendid news. For he had barely been able to contain himself even a moon after Aegon had agreed to their betrothal. Being forced to keep away from his Princess for more than seven moons now would have been absolute torture for them both.
Much still plagued the Princess' mind, and although she hated to bring up the subject, they absolutely needed to discuss it…if they were ever to follow through with their plans to ride to Essos.
Taking a deep breath, Visenya asked, "Have you gotten the Cannibal to let you ride him?"
"No." Viserys responded rather quickly, his nostrils flaring at the thought of this knowledge spreading throughout the Realm. He despised such humiliation.
Silverwing and the Cannibal now both rested on the Dragonmont of the island…having not yet been allowed by the castellan of Dragonstone to enter the Dragonpit. Had it been Silverwing alone, mayhaps he would have obliged the Prince and the Princess.
But the Cannibal was making it clear that he no longer intended to remain in solitude. He had grown accustomed to observing Viserys from afar, following him wherever he went, even if he kept his distance. And as for Silverwing…the she-dragon was becoming more and more agreeable for the coal black dragon.
The folk on the island, who gathered about to watch the two glorious dragons together, oft spoke of how the two would soon become a mated pair. And mayhaps with someone as Silverwing by his side…the Cannibal could be convinced to renounce his former ways of feasting on younger dragons, as well as dragon eggs.
A menace he would always be, of course…and a great help as such for House Targaryen. But he would be able to live among other dragons, and people alike. He would be feared for the right reasons.
"I cannot understand your persistence to fly to Volantis. Whether Saera Targaryen is alive or not, does not concern us. The rumours of any rebellion had died down. There is no need to reignite the flames by searching for trouble."
"You do not like her." Visenya remarked.
"What is there to like?"
"I sympathize with her…for what she endured. She did not deserve what her father did to her." Visenya tried explaining herself, but Viserys' mind was set.
"I do not believe her punishment to be exaggerated.", he stated adamantly.
"You would do that to your own daughter?"
"I doubt any daughter of mine would have gone to such lengths. My daughter would be given the proper education, and never left astray as Saera had been."
With that, Visenya could not argue. She was certain that Viserys would do his duty as a father…unlike the Old King Jaehaerys.
But even so, Visenya still felt that there was too much hatred directed towards this woman.
Searching to make a point, the Princess told her husband, "Do remember that our mother was not exactly pure in her marriage bed either. Elinda said she lost her maidenhead to our father when she was still a young girl. They were caught abed together by a Kingsguard. And yet our grandsire did not punish her in such a way. He did not even disinherit her. All he asked was for her to wed quickly so as to silence the whispers."
As expected, Viserys jumped with a counterargument. "Do not compare the two matters, Visenya. Our mother did not bed three men at the same time, nor embarrassed her father, her family and her House by making her affair public knowledge. Saera Targaryen had been trouble from the moment she was born. I do not blame Old King Jaehaerys for ridding himself of her."
Despite Viserys' insistence, Visenya would not give in. She persuaded him in seeing that ignoring the whispers about Saera Targaryen, would only result in many uncertainties. If she was alive, they needed to find out why she had decided to make an appearance now, after all the years which had passed.
And so, the preparations for their voyage in Volantis had begun.
…
Crakehall.
Located at the far south west of the Westerlands. The place where the meeting was to happen, according to the letter Loreon Lannister had received.
The young lion did not think himself in a position to refuse. Despite having gold, plenty of resources and a powerful army, his friends were few. His mother's heinous crime had set House Lannister back plenty.
Loreon, of course, had no intention to make fresh new enemies. Regardless of the Hightowers' plots, he agreed to the meeting in order to prevent further damage to the House he was to rule…and he was determined to analyse all his options moving forward.
Reaching a darker part of the forest, Loreon was beginning to regret not bringing anyone with him. For the woods were dark and plenty could happen.
His head turned swiftly when he heard the noises made by another horse…and then another. His eyebrows furrowed, and sweat had begun trickling down his forehead.
He was alone. How could he be so foolish?
Signalling his horse to back away, Loreon almost missed the strong voice which called from behind.
"Lord Lannister! Hold!"
Turning around, Loreon inspected the man who had come before him.
It was not Lord Hightower he was to meet, apparently. It was his younger brother, Ser Martyn, who was waiting by the trees on his own horse.
And then…another joined him.
Short, silver-golden head of hair, purple eyes and a short beard.
A genuine smile seemed plastered on this man's face, and the young Lannister lord had a feeling he knew who this was.
Feeling cornered and obviously outnumbered, Loreon found his strong voice, exclaiming, "What is this, Ser Martyn? I agreed to a meeting with your brother!"
"And I have come to express my brother's sincerest apologies. He could not make the journey from Oldtown. For you see, Lady Samantha has been hit with the gravest of news. The High Septon has reversed his decision on her poor children's legitimacy. My lord brother is accompanying her to the Starry Sept to plead their case. We are confident that given the…change in circumstances, the High Septon will prove to be more agreeable." Ser Martyn explained.
Loreon would only wait to see what they had in mind.
With a smile, the Hightower brother, stated, "In any case…my lord brother perceived this as an opportunity for you to meet the face of our cause."
Turning his horse, Ser Martyn pointed to the man behind him, saying, "May, I present…Daeron the Daring of House Targaryen, and the rightful King of the Seven Kingdoms!"
And so, the man came forth.
Squinting his eyes, Loreon believed he looked the very image of a Targaryen.
"Lord Loreon! I am pleased to finally meet the son of Lord Jason Lannister, who commanded our forces during the war. My family and I owed much to the Lannisters. I can only hope to be deemed worthy of such same support from you now.", the silver-gold haired man told him, as he came forth with his own horse.
The way he spoke. It was so calculating…as though every word had been well thought out.
Loreon's mouth parted, but no words came out. Mayhaps out of the shock for the kind words addressed to his fallen father.
"You ought to know…I do not partake in treason.", the young lion finally stated, proudly.
The man would simply smile, and explain, "And I do not expect you to. All I ask is that you do as your father did, and acknowledge the rightful line of succession."
The rightful line of succession...
Who was to determine which one it was?
"King Aegon would not take kindly to you pursuing this quest." Loreon spoke softly, thinking of the recent news which reached him…of what had happened in King's Landing.
At this, "Daeron" let out a small laugh, shaking his head, before saying, "I would welcome a duel with my nephew…if he would only dare challenge me. Though, I imagine he will once more send his brother to fight his battles for him."
Raising his head, the pretender's expression became more serious, as he regarded a possible ally.
"Lord Loreon…your father had been loyal to my family. I wish that this loyalty be extended to me now.", he pressed more delicately.
At the mention of his father, Loreon's eyes softened, and "Daeron" was pleased to see that he might finally be getting to him.
With a deep breath, "Daeron" steadied his horse and delivered the final blow, by telling Loreon, "I admire your values, and your sense of duty. But rest assured, the ones holding my throne, do not. Your mother caused the death of one of Aegon's sons. Do not fool yourself into thinking that you have paid your debt by taking to wife that Massey girl. Princess Visenya proved to be quite devious…taking advantage of your situation to impose on you a lady with a stained reputation. But the murder of their own blood…that, they will never forgive. I do not imagine you wish to live your life in fear."
Loreon Lannister looked most intrigued…and "Daeron" knew that his work here was done.
…
The words on the parchment she held in her hands could not be the words of her dear father.
Little Jeyne trembled slightly as she slowly took in her father's much too harsh words at her proposal.
Sarra Stark found her companion on her knees in her chambers, with tears streaming down her cheeks.
The Northern girl immediately rushed to her, and grabbed her shoulders in comfort, demanding, "What has happened?"
"My father. He has refused my betrothal to Isembard." Little Jeyne spoke softly.
"Well, it was to be expected…"
"'Tis not only that." Little Jeyne argued.
"There is more?"
Wiping away her tears, Little Jeyne whispered, "He is being most cruel. He threatens to disinherit me if I pursue a courtship."
"Little Jeyne…"
"You do not understand. He has never spoken to me in such ways. And for him to write such words on parchment…"
"May I?"
Little Jeyne nodded, and handed Sarra the letter.
The young Stark girl inspected it, and was beginning to understand what she meant. For Lord Joffrey Arryn had been known to be most loving towards his one and only daughter. But even King Viserys was known to have loved his eldest child, Rhaenyra, most dearly, but that had not stopped him from threatening to disinherit her if she did not wed Laenor Velaryon.
"He is much too pressured. He is leading an army of men to the Riverlands, to meet Lord Kermit Tully. We still do not know if any war is truly brewing. Mayhaps, after he is finished…" Sarra attempted at comfort, but Little Jeyne cut her off.
"He will never allow me to wed Isembard. He still recalls the rebellion."
"You cannot blame him for that. I do not think Isembard can be trusted either." Sarra expressed her thoughts, and from the way Little Jeyne's gaze darkened, the young Stark girl realized she may have made a mistake.
"You are all so quick to think the worst of him!" Little Jeyne accused, her cheeks red from having wept.
Ignoring her statement, Sarra asked softly, "Does he know about this letter?"
"I have just read it myself, so no."
"Are you going to tell him? That his one-time rival refuses to give him his daughter's hand?"
Little Jeyne's frown only increased. Sarra Stark sure knew how to put words together.
"He does not need to know. In any case, it matters not. Regardless, whether I have my father's blessing or not, I will wed Isembard." Little Jeyne replied, acting quite the determined lady.
Grabbing the letter back from Sarra's hands, the future Lady of the Eyrie rushed out of the room. Her companion was left behind, shaking her head.
…
An elephant parade was taking place on the streets of Volantis that day, attracting all folk to watch the spectacle.
The people celebrated the election of three new Triarchs, all belonging to the party of elephants. The other party, known as the tigers, would need to lick their wounds and hope that the following year would be theirs. For now, the people had spoken…or so had the gold.
The Free Cities had always been more libertine at heart, compared to the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros. However, some things remained the same, such as bribery. It so rarely happened that the people truly had a say in who would become the next three Triarchs of Volantis.
And one of these Triarchs, had been re-elected, after many years. The sailors whispered to Viserys and Visenya that it was supposedly one of Saera Targaryen's former lovers, and father to her two favourite sons, Baxos and Maleq.
With the celebrations being so grand, the music so loud, there were few who had noticed two magnificent beasts having descended from the distance near one of the more deserted ports.
Visenya climbed off of Silverwing, putting on her black cloak, as had been agreed upon, and watched as Viserys descended from the ship having brought him, the two members of the Kingsguard and some of Alyn's sailors.
Viserys had tried once again to mount the Cannibal, but the black beast would not let him. Even so, the dragon had followed them on their journey to Essos.
The son of the Rogue Prince pulled on his own hood, in order to hide his silver-golden hair. Despite Volantis having many people of Valyrian descent, the Prince and the Princess did not want to take any chances of anyone discovering who they truly were.
Silverwing let out a mewl of exhaustion, as she prepared to lie on the cliff and rest. The Cannibal remained vigilant, but stood close to the she-dragon, possessively but also protectively.
Viserys walked passed the two dragons, and threw the Cannibal a dark look.
How long was this stubborn beast going to put him through this torture?
The Cannibal met Viserys' glare, and showed his sharp teeth in a growl, before turning his back on him.
"This beast is going to yield to me one way or another." Viserys hissed, as he finally reached Visenya's side.
"Soon or late, he will allow you to ride him. You are bonded, after all.", she assured him.
"Are we?! I am unsure if even he knows the truth of it!" Viserys snapped and pointed his finger at the black dragon who was now ignoring him.
Visenya bit her lip, but could not keep the smile from appearing on her face.
"'Tis not amusing, Visenya!" Viserys scolded her.
With a giggle, Visenya turned her head, whispering, "Yes, it is."
Ser Dennis and Ser Joffrey of the Kingsguard came off the ship and insisted that they accompany the Prince and the Princess through the streets, and provide protection if needed.
Viserys assured them that they would be just fine on their own. Ser Dennis, Ser Joffrey and the Velaryon sailors were to remain by the docks, watching over the two dragons which had nestled on the nearby cliffs. They needed to make certain that none of these foreigners dared approach them.
Either way, despite the celebrations, it appeared that many had already been distracted by the presence of Silverwing and the Cannibal. Some pointed from afar in shock at seeing full-grown dragons again, so many years after the end of the war.
The sailors provided Viserys with the final instruction on where they could find the large chain of pleasure houses that Saera Targaryen was said to own.
Taking deep breaths, Viserys and Visenya lost themselves in the crowd of people, leaving behind their dragons and their allies. In order for this to work, they needed to act alone.
The folk of Volantis were yelling in excitement at seeing the elephants, and soon enough, the three triumphant Triarchs would present themselves before them as well.
"Do you think she is attending the celebrations?" Visenya asked her husband.
"We will know once we reach the Pretty Pink Vice.", he told her, talking about the name of the chain of pleasure houses Saera was rumoured to have there. She had claimed once that she would forge her own kingdom in this place, and it appeared that she had been successful.
Viserys was slowly coming to terms with the idea that the sailors spoke the truth. Saera Targaryen was alive, and the state of the main brothel entrance attested to that.
The Pretty Pink Vice was magnificent to say the least. A house which looked more like a palace. Clean…well-kept. And the rich colours of the drapes and carpets would make any man desire to see what the women inside were wearing.
Although, with the celebrations, it was to be expected that the place would not be as crowded, and Viserys was glad for it. If they were to have this meeting, they needed to be alone.
Some women, dressed in rich silk, but keeping quite enough exposed skin for men's pleasure, walked passed them, flashing wide smiles Viserys' way.
With a scoff, Visenya only pulled Viserys further into the pleasure house, ignoring his laugh at her obvious display of jealousy.
They would not walk for long. Soon enough, two men who looked to be at least fifty years of age stopped them in their tracks. They were both wearing rich, golden silks, with various red patterns.
Their hair…silver-golden, and both sets of eyes were purple. One of them, seemingly the eldest, had long hair, flowing over his shoulders. He also had a wispy beard and a small moustache. The other one was grimmer, with shorter hair but tied behind. His face was clean of any hairs, and his hand was resting on the hilt of his sword.
The elder, with the long hair, addressed them in Low Valyrian, demanding to know who they were.
Visenya looked towards Viserys, waiting for him to answer. He had lived in Essos for a few years. It was expected for him to be familiar with this type of Valyrian tongue.
However, Viserys seemed reluctant to speak it, even if he did understand it.
"We are…family, of Saera Targaryen.", he responded firmly in the Common tongue.
The two men looked at one another instantly, their eyes widening. It appeared that they have understood.
Viserys placed his hand on the sheathed Dark Sister, ready to use it if necessary, when a voice boomed through the halls.
"Who goes there?!"
Common tongue yet again. This time coming from an elderly woman.
Viserys and Visenya looked behind to see her. Long, rich silver-white hair arranged in an upwards fashion. The woman's face had been touched by a dark purple colour over her eyelids, and her lips were a dark red. She was plump, moving about with a cane, but still dressed quite fashionably.
The purple eyes of Valyria made contact with that of Visenya's, and the Princess gasped.
It was her.
The old woman instantly stopped, when the realization hit Visenya's face. It seemed as though she certainly recognized who they were.
"Gods…not on this day.", she mumbled.
Not only did she recognize them, but…she appeared to have been expecting such a visit. And to Viserys, this was confirmation that the information having reached the Velaryon sailors of her reappearance, was of her own doing. She had wanted to be discovered.
"Allow me to send them away, Mother.", the grimmer of the two men stated.
The old woman simply shook her head, saying, "No, no, no. Just let them in."
Then, with a roll of her eyes, she turned around and headed to a more secluded chamber.
Visenya and Viserys followed suit, with the Princess being much too eager to ask the woman questions.
"Are you Saera Targaryen?", she asked, hurriedly.
She had her back turned, and Visenya just wished she could see more of her face.
The woman's groggy voice ringed instantly, as though the name mentioned by the Princess had been insulting.
"Targaryen? Ha! Not used that one since I was but a girl. No. Saera Belicos. I took the name of my dear lover, with his blessing, after I gave him his first son. When I gave him his second, he showered me with enough gold to make myself a real empire here."
"Your sons…they are the ones that…welcomed us?" Visenya asked, as she struggled to keep up and find the right words.
She had imagined meeting this woman for so long…and now, she barely knew what to say.
"You do not have to show such etiquette in my presence, dear. No one will chop your head off for speaking as you feel here. We are not in King's Landing.", the old woman hissed, bitterly.
Ridding herself of her cane, she sat on one of the armchairs, gesturing to her two guests to seat themselves as well.
"But yes. It is them. Baxos and Maleq Belicos. Proud sons of the Triarch. The best of his seed, and the best of my blood!" Saera exclaimed with pride.
It was at that moment that Visenya realized they had not been properly introduced. Taking a deep breath, she stated, "I am Princess Visenya Targaryen, and this is my brother, Viserys."
"Your brother, or…your husband?" Saera asked slyly as she watched the two hold hands.
"Though, I suppose it matters not. The two tend to go hand in hand. Our family traditions have never been tedious, that is for sure.", the old woman cackled, and reached for the cup of wine.
Ignoring her jape, Visenya exclaimed proudly, "We are the children of Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen!"
"Queen…that remains questionable."
"Not according to the King's royal decree, recognizing my mother as the rightful ruler of the Seven Kingdoms. A decree the lords of the Realm have accepted. Though, I am certain that with your connections, you already knew that." Viserys stated, earning himself another grin from his long-distanced aunt.
"Oh yes…I know of it all. Learning of the end having neared that Great House of my father's, had brought me much joy."
Visenya's eyes widened slightly, and she looked…sorrowful, as what she was hearing.
"You say that proudly…when you should be on your knees, begging forgiveness for staying back and not doing anything to help your family!", the Princess snapped.
"Visenya…" Viserys warned, but it was much too late, for Saera had been challenged.
"My family?! What do you know of my family, girl?! Westeros suffered in my absence, did it? The mighty House Targaryen faced the hardest of times, fighting off usurpers, traitors and opportunists. Good. Good, I say. For even so, the pain the lot of them suffered throughout the war is not to be compared with mine own."
"'Tis true. For you were naught but a spoiled child who sought vengeance against your family for not getting your way. The pain cannot be compared."
Viserys was amazed by Visenya's outbursts. Not long before, she was insisting that Saera had made herself known to the world with good intentions. Mayhaps, his wife was beginning to doubt her.
He truly could not blame her. For how Saera spoke of their family, made his own blood boil.
The old woman pointed her finger at Visenya hissing, "Do not dare insult me in my home."
Home. Of course, she would consider this pleasure house her home. A woman without shame, indeed. What the years had done to her…
"I will speak to you however I please, if you are to sit there and insult my mother!"
Visenya's bottom lip has started trembling, and Saera could do naught but sigh…not wishing to continue the dispute.
"I did not insult your mother, dear girl. I pitied her. Truly, I did. For she was naught but a victim of my own father's politicking, as I was."
"You cannot compare yourself to my mother." Visenya intervened.
"Sure, I can! She was a woman, was she not? A woman in the world of men. I was the same. I was young…and chained. A dragon is meant to fly!"
Visenya pursed her lips, and looked away…suddenly disappointed with the direction the long-awaited discussion was taking.
The Princess' silence did not inspire Saera Targaryen one bit, as the patron of the great pleasure house took it upon herself to inspect Viserys.
The Prince looked her straight in the eyes, as Saera made her analysis.
"You have naught of the first Viserys.", she concluded, leaning back in her armchair, eager to say more.
"Why is it that second sons prove to be greater than the first ones? Baelon was greater than Aemon. Your father, Daemon, greater than your grandsire and namesake. And now…there is you and your brother.", she added.
With a small cackle, Saera shook her head, adding, "The cruelty of our Gods never ceases to amuse me."
Viserys' jaw only clenched, as he did not appreciate japes being made when it came to his brother. As far as he was concerned, Aegon was a better man, and a true survivor of what he was forced to endure. Despite him being prone to weakness, there had been plenty of times when he had proved himself a true son of House Targaryen.
"You, girl!" Saera exclaimed, snapping both Viserys and Visenya out of their thoughts.
"You called me spoiled. Mayhaps. But vengeful…I do not bother.", the old woman continued, and it was Viserys who replied.
"Then, why make your presence known after all these years?"
"I was content to remain in the shadows and watch you from behind drapes…but I am old, now. The games have tired me greatly. And mayhaps, I hoped…I would be given the chance to meet one of mine own again…well, except that fool of a brother of mine, of course." Saera explained, rolling her eyes at the last part.
"What brother?" Viserys asked at once, and Visenya's heart quickened when hearing at the possibility of more of their family being alive.
There were records of Aemon and Baelon having passed, which could only mean…
"The great archmaester of them all! Vaegon…who else? Hidden well in the Citadel. Thinks the world has forgotten him…but my spies have told me plenty.", the old woman exclaimed proudly.
Visenya instantly turned to her husband, asking him, "Would Mother and Father had known of him? If so, why did they not seek to…?"
"To what? Convince him to join their cause? Claim a dragon?!" Saera asked with amusement and shook her head, adding, "That old toad's mind has been poisoned against your family, rest assured. Even if your mother had dared…he would never have helped her."
Then, leaning forward, Saera spoke with a much sincerer tone, "My family all but banished me. So, you can understand my reticence in getting involved. Ask yourself…what is Vaegon's excuse?"
Visenya fiddled with her fingers and lowered her head in disappointment once more. There was much she had learned. Much she wished she would not have.
"You could not possibly understand…they sent me to Oldtown of all places. They knew how much I despised it there, as I did the sister who decided to become a septa." Saera hissed, letting out a snort after mentioning her older sister, Maegelle.
"They decided on a fair punishment, I deem it. Inducing some humility. They could have done worse." Viserys stated harshly, and Visenya grabbed his arm in warning, when she saw Saera's eyes darkening, and turning to slits.
Standing up from the armchair, the old woman yelled, "FAIR?! Tread carefully with me, boy! I am willing to wager that you have never been beaten, forced on your knees in prayer…or shaved! They tortured me! Whatever I had done…I was but a girl!"
Understanding that this had gone far enough, Visenya was forced to intervene.
"We ask your forgiveness. My brother tends to be…", she began but was cut off.
"…more like my own mother and father, the way I see it." Saera finished, and contemplated for a moment, before going to the back of the room.
Visenya stretched her neck, seeing that the old woman was searching for something.
Meeting the Princess' eyes, Viserys took the opportunity to express his thoughts.
"I care not what she says. I am certain she is plotting something. As are those sons of hers.", he told his young wife.
"She is angry, but she does not seek vengeance." Visenya replied.
And so, their fears had been for naught. If Saera truly was not seeking to avenge her former self, then the whispers concerning her sons were certainly unfounded, as well.
"She gives us reason to believe otherwise." Viserys replied, bitterly, gazing at the pitcher of wine on the table.
He wished he could take some for himself. Alas, he could not trust that it has not been laced with something. Foolish thoughts, he knew that, considering that Saera herself had drunk it. But even so…
The hands of the Prince were clenched, as he and his wife both waited for their host's return.
And return, she did…with something in her hand.
Gold?
Viserys' eyes squinted for a moment…but as Saera approached, his eyes widened.
A simple, golden band…with seven colourful gemstones.
Visenya watched his reaction with fascination, as she did not recognize the object.
"Viserys, what is it?", the Princess whispered, as Saera took a seat, holding the band high in the air.
It was most beautiful.
Viserys had most certainly seen it before. Back when he was but a small boy, clutching onto his stone-cold dragon egg around Dragonstone. The circlet had been atop of the Queen's head.
"Mother.", the Prince whispered, as he seemed caught in a memory. A memory becoming more and more vivid.
Saera's smile widened, as she held on tightly to the crown.
"Recognize it, do you? Before it had been your mother's, it was your grandsire's, and my father's, before him."
"My mother?" Visenya spoke softly, keeping her eyes on the gold circlet.
She had been far too young. A babe. Of course, she had no knowledge of the crown her mother wore. In fact, there was naught she remembered of her mother…aside from her voice.
"The crown she sold…to buy herself safe passage to Dragonstone, after King's Landing fell. My father's crown. Imagine my surprise when I saw it again after so many years…being displayed as any piece of jewellery would, on my own streets…" Saera explained, as though she was haunted by the memory.
Seeing Visenya's hunger for more, Saera continued, "Your poor mother had no gold left. All she had was this crown. 'Tis what the merchant told me."
"Merchant?" Visenya asked in a whisper.
"A thief that man was! I ought to have had him gelded. I paid a fortune to get this from him. And even more for the information."
"Why bother?" Viserys suddenly asked. "If you did not wish to get involved…"
Saera's eyes hardened, and she refused to answer the Prince.
But Visenya's own eyes softened at the realization. Despite all that had happened…Jaehaerys and Alysanne had remained her father and her mother inside her heart, even after all the years which had passed.
With her large chain of spies, Saera must have discovered the whispers in King's Landing. That her mother had demanded that Saera be allowed to return to Court after Viserra's death. And despite her father's reluctance to make such a thing happen…Saera herself had occupied his thoughts in the final moments of his life.
Old King Jaehaerys had even confused the devious young upstart, Alicent Hightower, with his own daughter.
With what looked like a forceful action, Saera nearly thrusted the crown at Visenya, telling her, "Take it back to your home. For it has no place here."
Visenya eagerly accepted the old crown in her delicate hands. Viserys saw how much it pleased her to have another part of their mother with her.
"We will be happy to do so…provided that you accompany us.", the Princess eventually responded.
"Accompany you?!" Saera asked incredulously, and Viserys looked as though he was about to intervene.
Visenya had not discussed any of this with him. The plan had been to find the woman and ensure that she was not working against them…not take her back to Westeros.
Thankfully, Saera made her own reasoning clear by stating proudly, "No. My life is here."
Viserys was about to let out a sigh of relief, when Visenya spoke up, "Only a part of it. But there is still a part left in Westeros. Join us…if only for a little while. I am certain that your sons can manage things here in your absence."
Looking towards Saera, Viserys had started noticing how her expression had changed. She appeared to be…quite touched by the Princess' invitation.
"I am far too old to endure a trip by ship…" Saera continued to create excuses, but the tone of her voice had changed…as though she was truly considering this.
"We have dragons." Visenya replied with a smile, watching the amazed look on the old woman's face.
…
They did not walk towards the Dragonpit. Given Daenaera's condition, and her refusal of confinement, Aegon suggested the carriage.
But the place atop the Hill of Rhaenys was where Daenaera's surprise awaited her. Her husband had promised her something special.
Aegarax joined them. The small, grey dragon was perched on the King's shoulder, as he was oft used to.
"Aegon…what are we doing here?", the 'little queen' asked as soon as they entered the doors.
The members of the Kingsguard were accompanying them, and Ser Raynard held Daenaera's hand, helping her up the steps.
Morning was cuddled up in her own corner, without any chains holding her down. The she-dragon had become trustworthy, and as such, had been granted many privileges.
The King guided his Queen to the remaining five dragon eggs. All of them were stone-cold, and it looked like naught would change in the near future. But Aegon had become hopeful since the small hatchling had been brought into his life.
Mayhaps, all of Syrax's eggs would hatch, if given the proper care.
And Aegon knew of one tradition in their family that should not be forgotten, if they were to hope of their mighty House ever returning to its full power.
It was a tradition which the King's own mother and father had respected. Placing a dragon egg in a new-born's cradle.
Pointing to the numerous eggs, Aegon whispered in his Queen's ear, "Pick one. For our babe."
Daenaera's eyes widened at the realization, and her cheeks turned red. What an honour her husband was bestowing on her! She was not a Targaryen, yet for her to choose what could be a dragon of their babe…
Suddenly, the 'little queen' remembered the promise she had made to her eldest child.
Turning to Aegon, Daenaera whispered, "What of Daeron?"
Aegon looked at her for a moment, the sadness overwhelming him.
"I am uncertain if this will work…if the feeling of a new-born Targaryen will make the egg hatch. I do not wish for Daeron to have one just yet. I do not wish to see him disappointed, if…", he trailed on, and his Queen nodded, understanding what he meant.
Of course, she did not wish to upset Daeron. But she supposed he would be even more upset if, by the grace of the Gods above, his little brother or sister would become a dragon rider before him.
In any case, the 'little queen' made the decision to inspect the eggs.
Her choice was made rather quickly. The dark teal-coloured one.
Aegon smiled, as he realized she had chosen the colour of her own house.
Holding it carefully in her small hands, Daenaera wobbled over to her husband, trying to hide her obvious discomfort at the advanced state of her pregnancy.
"'Tis beautiful." Aegon murmured, as he covered her hands with his own, feeling the warmth of her skin, as well as the coldness of the egg.
They would be ready to welcome their child into the world any day now. And what a blessing it would be…for the babe to be welcomed by a new hatchling.
A/N: Thank you all for reading, and thank you for the reviews as well. Hope you liked the introduction of Saera Targaryen. I just want to point out that in the whole Jaehaerys and Alysanne vs. Saera debate, I am on neither side. Saera was rotten for most of her life, true, but I also think that if her parents had done a better job at raising her, maybe that whole scandal with the three boys she slept with wouldn't have happened. I personally think it was more of a cry for attention. Thanks for reading!