TYENE
5 days later
"Fuck" Tyene moaned as her back arched on her bed slightly, her middle two fingers deep in her cunt in search of some relief this morning. She had been left unsatisfied again the night before after inviting a black-haired dark-eyed handsome knight into her bed, his eyes weren't gray enough. She couldn't help but think of Jaehaerys deep grey eyes, she squirmed and whimpered as a result. A knocking rapped on her door and a sudden flash of fear shot through her which subsided when whoever it was tried the handle and the door didn't budge, she remembered to lock it after kicking ser who cares out.
"TY! WE ARE GOING TO MISS THE FIRST OF THE TILTS" She could hear her older sister Nymeria yell through the heavy wooden door. Tyene said nothing as her fingers moved faster she closed her eyes and pictured her dream again.
Jaehaerys loomed over her while she laid on her back on the beaches of Dorne, sunspear behind them. His hair hung free from his head as he kissed her hard and hot slipping a tongue into her mouth when hers opened to moan.
She had to put a hand over hers to stop her moan from slipping through. Blindly she reached for one of her pillows and brought it to her mouth pressing down to aid in quieting her.
Her thighs quivered as he ran his hand along them, he was calloused and rough from his time fighting, but his touch was gentle on her. His hand traced higher and higher along the inside of her thighs. His mouth left hers and found new ground on her neck, he left her neck a mess of dark splotches she'd never be able to explain. Her back arched when his fingers found their destination between her legs.
"All shaven for me?" he asked her in a lustfully husky voice and all she could do was whimper and nod. Her hands clutched at his bare chest and her lips parted slightly as he rubbed against her sensitive spot in her loins and he played her like a harp.
She curled her finger in an attempt to repeat the dream. Her eyes fluttered open and closed faintly as she peaked with the sight of Jaehaerys' eyes in her mind. She let out a soft breathy sigh and relaxed into the bed, she'd been likely to fall asleep again if not for today's activities. The first of three of Jaehaerys' tourney days, they would compete in the Melee first, then archery and the first of the jousts, then the last day would be the remainder of the lists and the Grand feast at the end of the eve.
Tyene rose and dressed quickly slipping on a simple honey-yellow dress that bordered on orange from age. She decided to forego makeup, picking up a pair of small knives she could easily conceal in the sleeves of her dress. She brushed her hair and linked a silver seven-pointed star necklace around her neck. Once done she took flight from her room with haste only to all but run into her father.
"There you are, your sisters were convinced you were sick or something similar when you would not answer," her father said to her as put his hands on the sides of her face to inspect her closer turning her from side to side and even checking her temperature like a sickly child. She waved off his attempts to dote on her and crossed her arms over her chest.
"I am fine papa" she said using the childhood title she had for him.
"Apologies my girl, I simply blinked and you have become a woman grown," he told her before giving her a kind smile that never failed to earn one from her, it didn't fail now either. He gave her a small kiss on the forehead before they were off to join her family in the travel to the tourney grounds. It had been quite some time since the last revelry, not that she was starved to watch men make fools of themselves for young dumb maidens who listened to their septa's too long. But she was glad today's tourney actually had a purpose to it, even if it was over a war no one here fought in. Except him. She thought about Jaehaerys more than she should have if Obara was to be allowed judgment, but she saw no harm in it. He was handsome, and a better warrior than most all who used the red keep yard to train. Ellaria told her once that warriors made the best lovers, they fuck like every time they are in a woman's bed it would be the last.
Tyene always considered herself unlucky she had never gotten to taste a real fighter, but now she had a chance with one who had likely danced with death up close. The thought excited her, and the continued worry of her being caught with a prince pooled a burning heat to her core she would never be ashamed to admit thrilled her further. They reached the courtyard to find rows of carriages to transport the royal family and its members of court to the grounds. All but Jaehaerys who it seemed had chosen to saddle himself a horse and camping supplies alongside Ser Jaime who had saddled a ride as well, a few other knights seemed to also intend to camp out at the tourney grounds. He never looked her way but spoke with his aunt and the King before mounting and riding out from the courtyard with his white knight in tow.
Tyene and her father were soon joined by her sisters including the younger ones who had made the trip from Dorne when his Grace first announced there would be a tourney to all the lords paramount. The Plump Bulb of Highgarden Lord Tyrell and his family were already here but scores of their cousins and lesser Reach lords descended on the grounds. Lord Lannisters least favourite offspring made the trip from Casterly Rock to dry the city of its ale and wine. Lords Baratheon, Arryn, and Stark hadn't come, not that it surprised her, the newly ascended Lord Tully did, however. Tyene's family began to climb into a few carriages at the ready for them after the royal family had been let out first. She found herself with her father, Nym, Obella, and little Loreza who was making a game out of climbing their father. He smiled and laughed pretending she was too quick and nimble for him to remove and her youngest sister giggled as their father tickled her in an 'attempt' to get her off.
"What were you doing?" Nymeria asked shifting in her seat towards Tyene. Her sister's gaze piercing like fathers when angry or wronged, Ty shifted in her seat slightly.
"I was, praying" Tyene said and her sister made no attempt to hide her snort as she laughed at the idea. Oberyn gave them a glance but said nothing as Loreza settled into his lap for the remainder of the ride.
"And I spent the night playing the harp for the Tyrells," Nym said. Her sister didn't question her further, nor notice the slightest blush on Ty's face at the mention of harps. Tyene hoped the matter would simply be lost to time. Nymeria seemed content to watch Kings Landing pass them as they rode.
"Papa, Mama said you would fight?" Loreza asked.
"Mhm, I will partake in the Melee my sweet, will you cheer for me the loudest?" He asked her playfully and his girl nodded with vigor.
JAEHAERYS
The lands outside the city had been transformed from just another stretch of wide open fields and wild tall grass to a flurry of colours and music. The grounds were lined with tents of entertainers and knights from all over the seven kingdoms musicians covered the ground filling the air with a cacophony of different songs and tunes. Performers put on short plays and puppet shows, merchants offered wares and exotic foods from every major port this side of the ruins of valyrian. Jaehaerys sat inside his private tent instead, a piece of his armour in his lap as he worked away at polishing it.
"It is going to get filthy again after you know that?" Jaime sneered from his corner of the tent. The space was small but enough for Jaehaerys, he sat in a cot that fit against the leftmost wall of the tent Longclaw beside him with Ghost under the cot lounging. His supplies sat in the middle of the tent with his armour spread out in front of him.
"I'll clean it again after then" Jaehaerys said without looking up from the shoulder guard he had in his lap. Jaime chuckled and shook his head at the notion. "You know, you don't need to stand guard during such revelry"
"Then who would protect our dear Dragonwolf from daggers in the dark?" He joked, the ghost of a smile threatening to tug at his lips.
"I can protect myself ser, besides don't you have a family member to entertain," Jaehaerys said. After a moment of no reply, he looked up to see Ser Jaime as pale as a real ghost now looking at Jaehaerys with a dread-filled gaze. "I, only meant, well you haven't seen your brother in some time. If you wished to go I'd give you leave" he clarified and saw his friend relax again before nodding slightly. Before he could answer the flaps to his tent came open and Daenerys walked in, Jaehaerys immediately stood and put the armour down.
"Mayhaps I will take you on your offer, my prince, princess," Jaime said as he watched the two and slipped by Daenerys to leave. He had been worried to tell her what Rhaenys had done that it might upset or anger her but it seemed something else had crossed her mind instead of what he could not be sure. Regardless of anyone's feelings about it, Rhaenys had avoided him like grayscale after that night, not that he pursued her, just they ended up in similar locations like the library a lot. He decided to leave it at a drunken mistake she was embarrassed over, he wasn't sure what he would do if that weren't the case. He of course swore Ser Jaime to secrecy, not that he thought the knight a gossip.
"Are you nervous?" She asked as she crossed the tent towards him and Jaehaerys shook his head.
"I have faced worse, and at least none here seek to kill me," Jae said.
"That may not be true, it is King's landing there is always someone trying to kill you" she spoke before taking one of his hands. Jaehaerys had to admit he wasn't sure about the game they played just yet, she had made a habit of sneaking into his bed in the night and he welcomed her. They dined in the eve together, sometimes alone, others with her companions, Ser Loras and Ser Renly, had even joined them all. She would join him in the yard when he trained and he joined her in the keep when she read or embroidered.
"While that may be true I doubt one who is as so bold as to do it in front of his Grace," Jaehaerys said, a giggle slipped from her lips as the tent flap came open again and a man he had never met stepped in. He was short and lean for a man who well looked past 30 name days however his hair had streaks of gray through it, and his beard as well. He had a pointed beard and sharp features and a keen gaze of gray-green eyes that scanned the tent before settling back on the royal family.
"Ah my prince Jaehaerys, princess" he greeted his voice slightly high and without an accent he could discern. Daenerys moved a bit closer to Jaehaerys even though the man looked unarmed.
"My apologies, but have we met before ser?" Jaehaerys asked, taking a step forward to allow his aunt the space behind if she sought it, which she did. The man shook his head before a restrained smile filled his lips that didn't reach his eyes.
"Lord Baelish, and no my prince we have not met before, I wished to make your acquaintance and offer my services you see I have come into a bit of wealth and with that wealth opportunity" he began and Jaehaerys felt himself relax a slight. "If we may speak privately," he asked glancing at Daenerys
"Anything you wish to say to me, you may say to my aunt," Jaehaerys said and he could feel Dany's hand on his back.
"Very well, I have purchased a number of businesses here in King's Landing, one of which includes your brother's favourite brothel, The Blue Pearl, I believe it is" he explained.
"Mayhaps it is my brother you'd wish to offer services to my Lord" Jaehaerys returned as plainly as he could. He could faintly place the name Baelish in his studies but not a clue which region they resided in.
"Well you see, it would do poor work to sell your apples back to the orchard my prince" When Jaehaerys did not respond in a moment of confusion Daenerys spoke up behind him.
"He wishes to sell you secrets, Aegon's secrets" she explained plainly and Baelish nodded.
"I see, well I don't find myself in desire to learn of Aegon's debauchery" Jaehaerys began before the thin Lord cut him off.
"Not his secrets between the sheets my prince, his schemes of court" he clarified.
"And why would I seek my brother's schemes or plans?" Jaehaerys questioned.
"Yes, why indeed" he parroted. "Mayhaps I should give you a gift of good faith to prove my intentions sincere," he said before taking a few steps towards him and offering a small rolled-up piece of parchment. Jaehaerys looked in for a moment before deciding to take it from the older man who bowed rather low after. "My prince, should you decide to take me up on my offer, you need to get word to one of my girls you'd wish to speak," he said before turning to leave. Jae watched him leave for a moment before unrolling the paper and his eyes went wide slightly.
Your brother has planned to have Ser Hardying attack you in the Melee today with murderous intent burn this note
Daenerys moved to his side to read the note and her purple eyes flicked over to his. Jaehaerys crumpled the note in his hand after a second.
"If this is true you can't fight" Daenerys started but was stopped quickly by Jae.
"We can't know if it is true, why would Aegon want me dead?" He thought aloud.
"So you intend to bet your life that Aegon doesn't see you as a threat to his ascension?"
"I don't want the throne," Jae said plainly.
"It matters not what you want, Aegon the Second and Daemon Blackfyre both denied the throne at first" Daenerys spoke, and she took Jaehaerys' hand. "If he believes you may someday, who knows?" She said quietly.
"I can't think so lowly of my brother Dany, and besides if Hardying wishes to attempt it I shall learn the truth and he shall fail'' Jae told her before being a hand up to rest on her cheek, her skin was soft like a velvet cloth he should not be touching. "I will be fine, I swear it" They shared a few moments of quiet before hearing a voice call out loudly from just outside his tent.
"His Grace, King Rhaegar Targaryen" as the tent was opened once more and Jaehaerys hand flew back to his side with exuberant speed. He looked on at Jaehaerys with a smile before looking at Daenerys, likely surprised she was here currently.
"Jaehaerys," he began before glancing at his armour which lined the ground. "That seems a little amount of armour for the tourney" he spoke.
"It is for the Melee father, I will wear more for the joust" Jae explained and Daenerys shot him another slightly worried but said nothing.
"Sister" he acknowledged and Dany nodded. "If it not bother you, I had something to speak with my son about" he told her and she bowed.
"Of course Rhaegar" she said before giving Jaehaerys' forearm a small squeeze and leaving the king and the prince. Rhaegar waited a moment before walking to his son and taking a seat on the cot motioning for Jaehaerys to join him. Jaehaerys thought for a moment before deciding not to upset his father over anything, he had never considered himself particularly close with his father, but Jae knew he was loved at least even if he went ignored in favour of Aegon's tutelage.
"I could arrange a larger tent you know" Rhaegar offered but Jae shook his head.
"I wanted no special treatment while at war this shall be no difference" He said and his father frowned slightly.
"Jaehaerys I- I'm sorry for not sending you aid" The King said quietly and Jaehaerys was taken aback.
"It is fine father, besides your inaction made me a legend" he tried to joke but Rhaegar didn't smile.
"You were a boy, my boy, and I just left you alone. If you had not returned, I am not sure what I would have done," his father admitted.
"I will not be a boy forever, I must be able to face the world on my own" Jaehaerys said before his father smiled at him with the sad look still in his eyes.
"You already aren't any more" he said quietly whilst holding his son's gaze. "You look just like your mother, with all of her beauty" he added and Jaehaerys stiffened slightly. They never spoke of his mother, at first Jae could tell it was just too painful for his father, so painful in fact he could not look at his second son with his eyes welling with tears for an entire year.
"That is funny, the girls of the court say I look as handsome as you" Jaehaerys returned, he knew he was a mix of the both of them but he would always favour his mother for obvious reasons.
"That is because none of them knows that she was the far pretty one between her and me," he said again, smiling this time his whole face joined in on the smile. "I uh, had this made for you" he said before producing a small box, from where Jaehaerys wasn't entirely sure but he took it from his father's hands before opening it. Inside sat a palm-sized Direwolf carved from a pale white wood Jaehaerys recognized immediately.
"Is this-"
"Weirwood, I had it made from the Isle of faces, your mother loved them," Rhaegar said as Jaehaerys took the wolf from the box and turned it over in his hands, it was very well made and on the belly, it read
R + L = J
And Jae smiled before looking back to his father. "I hope you like it" he almost asked the words as they came out. Jaehaerys understood in that moment he was just as much a stranger to his father as the man was to him.
"What was she like?" He couldn't stop himself from asking, he had heard plenty of stories from Uncle Ned and Uncle Benjen. She had wolf blood like Arya, that she couldn't be tamed and sought adventures and excitement. But he never heard of her from his father's eyes.
"She was lively and beautiful, and she laughed so much, she had an amazing smile and laugh the kind you wanted to earn from her every time you heard it" he looked at the ground in front of them before reaching down and picking up a piece of armour and running his thumb over it.
"How did you meet her?" When the words left his mouth he could feel the king grow regretful. "I- I have heard the story of Harrenhal, the joust and all of that but, how did you first meet her?" His father remained quiet for a moment before speaking again.
"Well, the first time I met her was the banquet before the tourney, we all dined and danced, and there was even a brother from the watch, I played my harp and she cried from my song, even your uncle Ned joined on the merriment when he danced with Ashara Dayne, my father even made a surprise appearance none of us suspected" Rhaegar spoke softly. From other stories Jaehaerys knew plenty had happened that night, Jaime joined the kingsguard, and Howland Reed had been attacked not long before it but he stayed quiet and let his father continue. "The first time I truly spoke to her however was after the first day of the lists, I'm sure you know the story of the Knight of the Laughing Tree?" when Jaehaerys nodded and his father went on. "Well after the knight unhorsed three riders my father sent me to unmask this mystery knight and have them dragged before court"
Rhaegar crept into one of the lesser-used stables, he had asked around and was sure he had tracked his target down. He could faintly hear the sounds of armour rattling and he entered, his sword already drawn he quickly stepped out weapon pointed and at the ready. Before him stood his mystery knight, armour cobbled together from the discarded sets of knights past their weirwood shield hanging up.
"Unmask yourself Ser, tonight you will face his Grace the king" Rhaegar commanded. Even alone he liked his odds, he would have brought his kingsguard with him but a group is harder to move quietly than just a single man. Slowly the knight's hands moved to their helm and pulled it off revealing a cascade of rolling dark hair down the breastplate, she had a mischievous grin and playful eyes as if she hadn't just embarrassed three men, their squires, and spun a conspiracy amongst the realm.
"I think you will find I am no Ser," she said before tossing the helm to the ground and removing her gloves.
"You're the Stark girl, Lyanna," the prince said slowly, letting his sword drop back down. She rolled her at the statement and ran her now bare hand along her horse's mane.
"Incorrect" she said and confusion filled the young prince's face, she smiled again before retrieving her helm from the floor. She spoke into the bottom of the headpiece causing her voice to come out warped and booming. "For you see, I and the weirwood knight of the laughing tree, champion of the old gods who defends its sons and daughters and whose shield laughs at all who challenge her" she said triumphantly earning a chuckle from Rhaegar before tucking the helmet under an arm. "And who might you be tonight?" She asked and he once more needed clarity.
"Surely, you know who I am, Prince-"
"Yes yes, I know who the realm demands you must be, Prince Rhaegar Targaryen, heir to the Iron Throne, the last dragon" she cut him off before striding towards him with a purpose, Rhaegar let his weapon stay down as she got close. "But just tonight who would you be if not him? Mayhaps… The White Bard, who travels from tourneys and keeps with his harp enchanting maids and inspiring knights with his songs from every corner of the world, from mareen to pyke and the wall to the summer isles" she said again before another playing and mischievous grin filled her face beautifully, she took a few steps back. "So which will it be? Are you the dutiful Prince Rhaegar here to drag me before the king? Or The White Bard come to partake in a night the likes of which he may never see again?"
"I'm sure you can guess what I choose," Rhaegar said, remembering those stable walls like he was still there in that very moment.
"And after?" Jaehaerys couldn't help but ask, his lips upturned into a smile.
"I told my father the knight had vanished after she and I hung the shield in a tree we spent the night amongst the lesser lords and common folk, and like always she was right, a night like that has yet to ever be seen again" Rhaegar finished before putting his hand on his son's shoulder. "She would be, incredibly proud of you, I know it," he said.
"She would be if you too, Father"
RHAENYS
The princess traveled the grounds taking in the sights, sounds, and smells, along with her favorite cousins Arianne and Tyene. Her sworn sword Ser Arys not far behind the three ladies, his hand resting on the pommel, his eyes ever vigilant on the crowd. Arianne was as boisterous as ever it was Tyene who was usually quiet however on their expedition. Rhaenys shot her a glance but Tyene avoided eye contact whenever possible as Arianne all but spoke to herself.
"Gods you two are dull today, melee is an hour away and I have half a mind to abandon the both of you" the heiress to Dorne announced while they walked.
"Haps I just grow tired of listening to you ramble," Tyene said, her smirk returning slowly.
"Yes, perchance you desire the company of Ser Oakheart alone?" Rhaenys teased and Arys' eyes grew wide as they frantically looked for any who overheard.
"Pr-princess" he said in a hushed flustered tone and none of the girls could contain their giggles.
"Be calm Arys, besides" she said before giving him a sultry look and speaking her next words quietly. "There will be plenty of time for such later after today's melee" her words sent Arys sputtering again about how such words in public were dangerous. They sample foods from across the narrow sea and Arianne found a forest of dresses hanging up in one tent that she got thoroughly lost in. Arys did his duty to watch Rhaenys but always kept Arianne in the corner of his eye taking a glance at her when the chance presented itself, sometimes the princess couldn't help but wonder who Ser Oakheart might choose in a heartbeat decision.
"Will you cheer? For your brother" she heard Tyene suddenly ask, pulling Rhaenys from her thoughts.
"I um, of course, I presumed you would be cheering loud for your father" the princess returned, she knew Aegon wouldn't take part in the Melee. He could fight she knew it too but he saw little desire in proving himself to those who would bend the knee regardless, therefore she knew this was about her youngest brother.
"My father has plenty of fans for today's fight, I hear your brother could use new ones," she said with a suspicious smile pulling on her lips. Rhaenys hadn't spoken to Jaehaerys since she kissed him suddenly, not that he blamed her or seemed upset. He kissed me back. She didn't know if she should thank or damn the gods for such stirrings in her.
"And here I had thought you shared your sister's thoughts of Jaehaerys, walking proof that Elia was spurned" Rhaenys said, Tyene only shrugged in response.
"Ten and nine years is a long time, and your parents seem happy, my father is the only one cross and the other girls wish to emulate him, besides, your brother has a certain northern ruggedness that is alluring" She stated plainly, Rhaenys felt a surge of possessiveness the moment her cousin finished her words. "He won't have a wildling to state him after this battle, mayhaps I should sneak into his tent-"
"You can't," Rhaenys immediately shot out, causing her cousin to look over at her. "He, he, he, is a Targaryen prince, what if someone saw?" She tried to explain.
"You say as if I am typically caught, I have yet to hear any whispers of court of my sinning," she asked with an eyebrow going up.
"There are hundreds more people than you typically sneak by, my brother does not need rumours of him spilling his seed in a Dornish bastard" Rhaenys said a tad harsher than she would say and now both of Tyene's eyebrows were up.
"Mayhaps you are right, or mayhaps you would just prefer if Jaehaerys spilt his seed in a Targaryen princess instead" Tyene challenged, their eyes met and she knew Tyene could tell the look in her eye. "Gods, you do want that don't you?" She asked again and Rhaenys had to hold in a groan as Ty giggled. "You valyrians, is it lust or love?" She asked further needing details.
"L-lust, I think" she started. "He came to my rescue, and he likes to read, and he doesn't leer at me or any woman of court, he's strong but gentle" she started to explain her reasoning.
"If your intent is to dissuade me you are doing a poor job," she replied. "So you two kissed, will there be a royal wedding soon?"
"God's no, I haven't even spoken to-" Rhaenys started but couldn't finish as her eye caught something. She saw her brother through the crowd, his pale silver hair standing out amongst the bystanders. He had a mean look on his face and with him, Ser Harrold Hardying and two more men she didn't recognize his sworn sword was nowhere to be seen as the four men ducked into a tent. Rhaenys couldn't explain it but she felt a churning in her stomach.
"Rhae?" Tyene asked. Rhaenys took her cousin by the forearm and pulled her in through the mass of bodies in her brother's direction. "Hey! Where are we-" Rhaenys ignored her complaints while pulling her along. She wasn't sure if Arys was behind her and she didn't turn to look. Once through the crowd she pulled Tyene behind a row of tents and held her finger to her mouth signalling for silence, Tyene looked annoyed but complied. They stalked down the row until she got close enough to hear her brother's voice from the crowd.
"-him bad, got it?" Aegon said as she was just able to tell what he was saying.
"Hardying said we'd be getting paid for this" a voice she didn't recognize said. Tyene shot Rhaenys a worried look. She could hear the exchange of money and a low, impressed whistle. "And here I thought the royal family were all happy thoughts and seven blessings" the same man joked and she could hear Aegon scoff.
"My aunt and father can dress up the bastard all they wish, that is all he shall ever be" Aegon declared. "Viserys, Rhaenys, and I at least see him for what he is, hells if my aunt had her way she already is 7 days along with his babe"
"Who's to say she isn't, I heard the whispers from one of my lovely ladies that the princess's bed has been found empty more times than not as of late" Harry revealed to the snickers and chuckles of his companions. Rhaenys expected to feel a surge of jealousy or like before possessiveness but she didn't. Dany isn't like the others, the girls of court.
"Jesting aside, you understand the task ahead of you" Aegon said and laughter died down.
"yes yes, beat your brother bloody during the melee"
"Make the bastard squeal" the other voice finally spoke up. They exchanged a few short words and barbs, once it was clear their scheming was over Tyene and Rhaenys took flight in search of Jaehaerys.
DAENERYS
Dany sat nervously in the royal seating section with her hands fidgeting nervously as the first round of fighters got ready for the melee, including her nephew. It was the first of four rounds before the finale, due to how many had entered the final four from each round would make up the ten and six who would fight for the champion's purse. Daenerys had already bit her nails to the bed while waiting alone, she was the first of the royal family to find a seat. Her brother had arrived not long after her with the queen as well, who oddly enough took a seat over by Daenerys after sharing a few words with her husband.
"Elia" Dany said, the queen had let her dispose of royal titles years ago. Despite being her good-sister, Elia acted more like the mother she never got to meet, Viserys didn't accept Elia into the position as quickly as Daenerys, still having memories of a mother he would be discarding. The Queen said nothing at first but reached over and held up Dany's hand to expose her chewed nails to her embarrassment.
"Nervous?" She asked simply and all the princess could do was nod. "And here I was fearful that you and Jae wouldn't be as close when he came back"
"I would never be like that," Daenerys said, not embarrassed by how quickly she said it.
"I didn't mean you, my dear, sometimes war can change a man, they are no longer the smiling boy you knew," she said before her eyes glanced back to the King sitting alone, his head sagging a bit as if the crown was weighing him down. "And they return grim men who have killed and fought for the peace that now escapes them" Dany nodded when the Queen looked back at her.
"Jae seems haunted by… his war," she said quietly. "I am not sure how to help him, how did you?"
"I did nothing special, I held Rhaegar when he wept and supported him when he doubted himself or when the whispers grew too loud," Elia told her before taking Dany's hand again and holding it. "You see, the realm has demanded men must be strong for so long, they have fooled themselves into believing it is the way of the world, but let me tell you a secret you will learn when you are wed," she said before leaning over and speaking in a hushed tone. "Men are sensitive little things, with egos of glass, some of which are already shattered, and when they do break there is nothing that can make them whole again even if the glass is restored it will always be fragmented, all we can do is love the fragments," she told the princess. Before Daenerys could respond Aegon skulked into the area and Dany's look grew dark as she gazed at her nephew.
"Egg," his mother said as she held out her hand for him to take. He looked between the two girls before coming to sit on the other side of Elia. "Your friend is competing, yes?" she asked, looking over to him.
"Mhm, Harry along with some of his childhood friends from the vale" Aegon said nonchalantly. Dany's eyes widened slightly as the words almost floated in her ears, Jae will be outnumbered. Stood hoping to warn him before the chance had passed when she heard the trumpets blaring and the start of the drum beat. Rhaegar looked around their area and seemed confused but stood nonetheless and walked to the ledge as the crowd quieted down for their king.
"Thank you all for coming my lords and ladies, today we shall have a spectacle as many of the realm's finest knights, their talent unparalleled to any era of our past, mine own son included, over the next three days these fine knights shall prove themselves worthy of the travel it took to come to watch them" he called out before returning to his seat. The fighters began to filter into the pit, there were plenty of fighters she recognized other than Jae. Borros Blunt, Alliser Thorne, Rennifer Longwaters, Harrold Hardying, Loras and Garlan Tyrell, and Renly Baratheon are among the ten and four men in this round.
"Which are Harry's friends?" Daenerys asked before glancing at Aegon. He scanned the pit for a second as they all took a spot along the wall, he pointed to a pair.
"Them there, Robar Royce and Roland Waynwood," He said, She could tell the Royce knight from the runes and bronze pressed into his armour, he was slightly shorter than Roland but just as broad. The taller man sported a tunic of deep green over his breastplate, the centre a wagon wheel with a singular busted link. They both leered at Jaehaerys who wasn't wearing much, just boiled leather, chainmail, a half plate with slim gauntlets, and of course, no helm. His shoulder-length hair tied back with the lower half hanging free. He looked far more like Oberyn than a proper knight, or a northern savage.
She supposed. She reasoned he had to have learned to fight like men of the watch, heavy armour would be cumbersome in the cold. He wasn't the only one without a helmet, Garlen also let his gleaming smile shine. His brother however deemed his face far too valuable to risk in such an event and wore a helm visor down, both of their armour was silver and had roses pressed into the metal. Renly also wore an open-face helmet with a set of antler horns, his armour as well had a yellow sash going around his waist and over one shoulder with a black embroidered stag. Hardying as well was adorned in his family colours.
The horn was blared and the fighters took their stances as they approached each other, since just over two dozen of them and the final four would move on, politics played a part as it did in all facets of court. Jaehaerys of course stood alone, two of them men she didn't know were locked into a duel. Longwaters moved in on a Bracken fellow, his red stallion splotchy with mud. Garlan, Loras, and Renly all spread apart but stayed within reach of each other, no pun withholding. Soon they each pounced on some of the greener knights, one she was sure was no older than ten and seven, such was the game.
Jaehaerys seemed content to try and stay small during the early going, some would call him cowardly but she breathed a breath of fresh air. Which was then caught when Ser Alliser Thorne moved on him quickly. He gave Jaehaerys little time to react with quick aggressive strikes, Aegon sat upright a bit surprised, she was sure Thorne was party to no plot ever since he was a boy he didn't like Jaehaerys. Jae held his ground however he didn't move simply backwards, evading Throne left and right. Ser Alliser to his credit, grew angry, Jaehaerys saw his openings and took strikes at his opponent's elbows and knees. Their weapons were blunted and all the men used swords and a few used shields, Jaehaerys of course, didn't. Ser Alliser did however have a shield.
It proved of little use against Jae as he was able to get out around it when Alliser looked for counterstrikes of his own. Soon it was clear Jaehaerys was wearing the older knight down, one solid strike to the leg left Thorne on one knee and it was child's play getting him to the ground after. Daenerys could faintly hear him snarl a yield out before the crowd cheered for their prince and Aegon sat back in a huff. Jaehaerys took his time with defeating Alliser and other men had begun to filter out of the pit. Renly and Loras had defeated their opponents, Garlan had defeated two, Harry took a man out and his two cohorts jumped a man by his lonesome. Longwaters was still in his fight with the Bracken and all seemed content to leave them. Despite working together it would seem Waynwood and Royce turned on each other as they crossed blades, at least it would, were it not obvious they were pretending to fight. Jaehaerys might have noticed as well if Hardying took his moment to take up a duel with him. Unlike Ser Alliser he was young and had energy, and unlike Loras, he wasn't merely trading blades to appease a pair of old knights.
He fought with true strength and pushed Jae back with each step, and manoeuvred them so that his back was to Ser Robar. Daenerys had to close her eyes at what happened next as Royce looked back and waited till he was close, then he struck him as hard as he could in the back of his head. Instantly dazed, Jaehaerys fell to his knees while Harry cleverly disguised a cheap hook to the Jaw as a missed swing of his sword and he went down to his hands and knees. The crowd gasped and Aegon didn't even try to hide his smile and Daenerys felt the air suck from her lungs. No longer were The valemen fighting each other as they all stood around Jaehaerys who reached for his sword only to have Harry kick it out of the way. He raised his sword over her head to strike him but it never came down and Garlan grabbed his wrist from behind.
"And here I hoped this was just a vicious rumour" the Gallant knight said before retching him back into the mud. Waynwood and Royce moved to help but were soon set upon by Loras and Renly. Garlan helped Jaehaerys back to his feet and gave him his sword back, she couldn't hear the words they exchanged next but saw Garlan point, following his hand led her gaze to Rhaenys and Tyene who watched on. The Bracken got the best of Longwaters and decided to jump to the aid of the Vale knights making it a four on four, she wasn't sure when Borros had yielded but he must have at some point as he no longer stood in the ring. It would have been complex to keep track of each match but Dany only cared about one match.
Jaehaerys still seemed slightly dazed as he crossed blades with Hardying who was still as ferocious as a few short moments ago and was able to get an early upper hand in their duel. Soon Jaehaerys was against the barrier of the pit, every attack Jae was able to block or parry but just barely and still took many blows to his body. Then there was a shift, at first, Harrold still had him back up, but he went for a thrust and Jaehaerys caught his blade under his arm and wedged against the post. That's when Harrold took the moment to share words with her nephew, she didn't know what was said, just that a sudden scowl grew along his face before he pulled his hand back and hit Hardying so hard his helm came off along with a mouthful of blood. He looked back up in time for Jaehaerys' forehead to come crashing down on him. Harry staggered back as he let go of his weapon, Jaehaerys advanced a fury in his eye as he began to wail on Ser Hardying without quarter.
He had no weapon nor shield and all he did was hold his arms up in an attempt to defend his face. Forearm, elbow, knee, thigh, shin, Jaehaerys struck weak point after weak point until Harry finally fell to one knee. None of his friends could save him, Loras and Garlan had already dispatched with Waynwood and Royce and Renly was making short work of Bracken with his close friend the Knight of Flowers on his way to give aid. Jae raised his sword high over his head to bring down on Harry's head one final time.
"YIELD, I YIELD!" Harry yelled out and Jaehaerys stopped himself mid-swing. He looked angry Hardying would get off so easy but let him slink away to lick his wounds. Aegon fell back against his chair with a frustrated huff so blatant even Elia looked over at him questioningly but didn't speak. Daenerys finally released a breath she didn't realize she was holding. They all waited for the inevitable as Longwaters was finally finished off, the four remaining knights all lined up shoulder to shoulder. Loras making a show of taking off his helmet and losing his long golden brown curls. They took a bow and even Dany stood and partook in the applause, soon they all filtered out of the pit for the next fight to take place.
Daenerys was out of her seat and hurrying to Jaehaerys' tent, she lifted the front of her dress slightly and could hear her kingsguard yelling after her as she ran. She knew there was a danger for a princess to go running into crowd after crowd without protection but she needed to be the first to him. Dany's run slowly turned into a fast walk as she reached his tent, she was out of breath and her hair a mess but she threw the tent flaps open and stormed in. She saw Jaehaerys his armour was removed and he was bare-chested, he was knelt in front of his cot with a small box of medical supplies and a mirror having recently been pulled out and set up.
"You are a fool, you know that?" She told him before crossing the small space and kneeling next to him turning the box to face her. She could tell where swelling and bruising would be most prominent already, he had blood smeared on the corner of his mouth and his lip was busted badly. There were no other cuts but his chest was a mess of purple and black welts she knew would cause him agony in the morning. "You should take milk of the poppy tonight" she tried to tell him only for Jaehaerys to shake his head against the idea.
"And give my mind over to the drug? I refuse, the pain will not be forever" He spoke quietly. She dabbed some ointment on a rag and began to press it to his lips and face. Jaehaerys hissed but didn't fight it as she attempted to help him. Soon the tent came open again and Rhaenys stepped in her eyes falling on them.
"Are you alright?" She asked as she took a few steps towards them. Jae pulled back a bit and Dany stopped, Tyene entered next but remained silent, Daenerys didn't miss how she drank in Jae's bare chest.
"I'll survive, though my face may never be the same," Jaehaerys jested though none of the girls laughed. The tent got more crowded as someone made their presence known behind Tyene. The sand snake moved to reveal the golden locks and bright crimson dress of Myrcella Lannister whose face was riddled with concern as she entered. Ghost padded over to her as she entered the tent, Traitor.
"Oh, my prince," Myrcella said, clasping her hands in front of her, "Those knights knew nothing of honour the way they attempted to attack you," she said. Daenerys had to fight back a smile however as behind her friend Tyene mockingly clasped her hands and mouthed the words Myrcella gushed out. Jae shot her a sharp look and Tyene simply winked in response. "I came to offer you an invitation my prince, after the Melee tonight dinner at my family's tent, oh you all of course are invited as well" Myrcella offered. Jaehaerys looked reluctant at first, likely to decline the offer in favour of a night's rest on his new bruises but Daenerys acted first.
"We would love that Myr, I'll ensure he bathes and is presentable for the eve," She said smiling brightly at her friend who returned the look.
"That gladdens me, I'll tell grandfather, and good luck to you in the finals my prince," she said before a curtsy and turning to hurry out leaving the four of them. A moment of silence fell over them, when Dany had planned to resume her work Jae spoke up again.
"How did you know?" Jaehaerys asked Rhaenys and Tyene. Daenerys thankfully did not need further context on the matter as the two cousins glanced between each other.
"We overheard Aegon planning, I had hoped to come and warn you directly, however when I couldn't find you I settled on finding you some allies" Rhaenys explained, Jae nodded but still looked in shock.
"I still can't believe Aegon would try and kill me" He muttered quietly and Rhaenys' eyes went wide.
"No no, you misunderstand he just wanted to embarrass you, mayhaps harm you a tad but your life was not his desire" Rhaenys tried to explain.
"I have under different authority that it was" Jaehaerys said and Rhaenys studied him for a moment.
"You knew, you knew he was going to have you attacked," she said in almost disbelief, Jaehaerys eyes flicked over to Tyene before he spoke again in their mother tongue.
"I had a messenger this morning who told me my life was at risk and Aegon was the schemer" He explained.
"Why valyrian?" Rhaenys asked.
"Your cousin, if my life is in danger I can't be sure she isn't on Aegon's side" Jae told her, Rhaenys looked annoyed by the accusation.
"Aegon didn't try to kill you, she was with me when he heard the plot and made no effort to stop me while I looked for you" Rhaenys returned, Daenerys looked on in silence, her eyes glancing back to Tyene who looked lost.
"You swear it, by the old gods and the new?" He asked and she nodded quickly and without hesitation.
"Of course I-" she started before Tyene groaned.
"Do you all just want me to leave? So mayhaps this doesn't need to be such a secret" she said.
"Sorry Ty" Rhaenys said, turning to her companion.
"Now what will you do?" Daenerys asked, he could go to the King with the information he has, or Aegon And confront him, or even Baelish at this point to try and learn more of the inner workings of court, Of course however.
"For now, I have a Melee to win" Jaehaerys claimed boldly.