The canopy curtains did not manage to hide the two figures on the bed from the sunlight reflected that morrow.
Viserys opened his eyes slowly, basking in the warmth he felt. The sunlight…and the soft body pressed against him. He wondered how such light could shine through the usually covered up brothel. The pleasure houses oft had their clients remain in darkness…another attempt at privacy.
With clarity setting in, Viserys realized that the body in his arms belonged not to one of the usual whores he had been seeing…but rather the Princess herself…his sister.
Visenya let out a small sigh, as she cuddled even closer to him. The fresh sheets and the warmth of another body, making her even more comfortable and…satisfied, it seemed.
They had both fallen asleep almost immediately after the first completion of their love making.
The pleasure he had felt…Viserys knew he had never experienced such a thing with anyone before. He was almost four and twenty and despite having frequented the brothels in Flea Bottom for the past year, he was now realizing that he had not known true pleasure from any of those whores…and not even when he was bedded by the much older Larra Rogare.
His gaze travelled over from Visenya's pink lips to the single exposed breast in the white sheets.
Not being able to help himself, he allowed his fingers to trace her collarbone. He stifled a gasp, when she mewled softly and pressed her forehead to his neck.
Her small sounds were engorging his member and he furrowed his eyebrows, concentrating on something that would restrain his obvious desire. For all their sakes, his body needed to be in direct contact with his mind.
And so, it was, for he could focus on naught but his joy at finally having her in his arms.
She is so beautiful…gevie, Viserys found himself thinking.
For one moment, he could dream of a future for them. Restoring their good family name, ridding the world of their enemies…children…multiplying…growing stronger than ever before. Bringing glory to their House, just as their father wanted.
A knock on the doors to his chambers, made his blood freeze.
Looking towards Visenya's sleeping face with concern, Viserys immediately pulled the sheets over her whole body, so as to shield her from much undesired attention.
She needed to be back in her own rooms before the maids discovered her absence.
Moving towards the doors swiftly, Viserys made certain to put on one of his robes, in an attempt to conceal the events from the previous night.
He knew it was fruitless, as the entire Kingsguard knew of his whereabouts to the Street of Silk by now. However, it was imperative at this moment that they did not know of a certain Princess lying naked between his sheets, glowing in the aftermath of him having taken her maidenhead.
Opening the doors himself, Viserys was met with the one more scrupulous member of the Kingsguard.
"What is it, Ser Agramore?", he asked, using the tone he reserved for Council meetings.
"Pardon me, my prince! The King requests that you break fast with him this morrow.", the knight explained himself, and Viserys made great efforts to control the expression on his face.
"I require another hour to collect myself. The previous night has left me…well…you understand."
With a nod, Ser Agramore, whispered understandingly, "Of course, my prince. I shall explain the matter to the King."
Gods…what would Aegon say should he discover their indiscretions?
Viserys knew his brother well. The slightest bit of pressure or stressful situation, and he would snap once more, especially after all the pain their family had to endure.
The moment Ser Agramore took his leave, Viserys closed the doors, locking them. His forehead rested on the wood. His chest was beginning to heave, as the consequences from last night's ventures began catching up with him.
The brothel…that girl he used to satisfy his own needs…Visenya presenting herself before him in all her splendor…enticing him with her womanly charms to give into his desires.
There was much their family could lose, should the events of last night ever be heard by the wrong set of ears.
Their enemies were still nipping at their heels, and there was Lord Tyrell to be considered. The key to Viserys' plan to get control of the Bank of Oldtown. The plan had been perfect. And he had been proud of himself for having chosen a good husband for Visenya.
How could he allow this madness to happen?
He had always been in control…and yet, not when it came to her.
"Good morrow.", a soft voice was heard from behind, and Viserys closed his eyes, praying that she would not manage to weaken his resolve as she did the previous night.
Finally finding the courage to turn around and face her, Viserys' words died on his lips, when he saw her sprawled enticingly on his bed.
She bit her lip, and then sweetly covered her face with her hands to keep the redness on her cheeks from showing.
A small smile crossed Viserys' face at the sight. She was happy. Truly happy. And he wished with all his heart he could keep her so. But their situation was far more complicated than she even imagined.
Clenching and unclenching his fists, Viserys whispered, "You need to get dressed."
Visenya scoffed, shaking her head, as she pulled the sheets closer to her body and made herself even more comfortable on his bed.
"Please.", he pleaded.
"No." Visenya mumbled stubbornly, as she hid her face in the pillow.
She did not hear anything else from him for a couple of moments, before she felt the bed dip.
His hand massage her scalp, threading his fingers in her curls, at which point she leaned into his touch.
Bringing her face closer to him, Visenya allowed him to cup her cheek lovingly. His touch was welcoming, even though his words were not.
"Must you deny me at every turn?" he finally asked her, and Visenya could not help but grin once more.
"I must warn you when you say the wrong things." Visenya whispered and then turned her head slightly to the side so she could press her lips against his palm in a gentle kiss.
His eyes never once left hers, as he replied, "I see. And how is what I say wrong?"
"Did last night mean so little to you?" Visenya asked, not in an accusatory manner, but rather with a tinge of sadness.
"Visenya…'tis not about that. What happened last night…what we have done…'tis treason. You are betrothed." Viserys hesitated with his words.
His eyes then lowered to her pale underside and his thoughts started an internal conflict. On one part, his possessive and loving nature wished with all his might that their passionate coupling would prove to be fruitful…that his seed had taken root and she would soon be heavy with his child. The other side of him, was the one reminding him of the promises he had made to House Tyrell…of the future of their family.
"Moon tea.", he mumbled his thoughts audibly, and the sharp intake of her breath proved not to be a good sign.
She instantly covered her belly with her hand in a protective stance. And that was how he knew. She wished for this to happen. For his seed to take root deep in her womb and a child to result from this. She was being led astray by the desires of her heart.
He did not wish to let her go, but their House remained vulnerable, and Baelor's death was proof of that. They needed allies. And the surest way to make that happen was through marriage. Visenya would wed a powerful lord her own age who would treat her with the respect befitting her title.
And as for himself…Viserys knew he was selfish, but he could not. Not after Larra Rogare. He had been keeping the Council's propositions of suitable ladies at bay for long now. Aegon's support of him remaining unwed had helped, though Viserys was uncertain that such a thing would persist.
Time was passing swiftly. They needed to act, to play the game the best way they knew…or else, the Hightowers and the Peakes would come against them once more. And only the Gods knew what fresh, new plague they would bring about the Realm.
"Avy jorrāelan." I love you.
Visenya's confession disturbed his thoughts, and Viserys could only watch with shock as she used her knees to move closer to him, running her gentle hands over his chest, until one stopped near his heart.
He was feeling the urge to unburden himself of that robe. His member was now pulsing once more with desire.
She was looking at him with the expectant look of a young girl who had just been ravaged for the first time, and desired more from her partner.
There was no doubt in his mind that he felt the same way. The past moons he had spent in agony, thinking of her sweet scent, of moaning her name when reaching his peak in that brothel, his anger at the time she spent with the Tyrell boy, his inability to focus on anything but her…it all attested to how much he desired for her to be the one he turned to in need, for her to be the one he bedded at nights and held to his chest in the early morrows. He wanted to be all that endured her attention.
"I…"
"Iksi vēttan naejot sagon hēnkirī. Nyke gīmigon ziry kesīr." We are meant to be together. I know it here.
This time, she grabbed a hold of one of his hands so as to press it over her own heart.
He refused to respond in High Valyrian. Such beautiful tongue had been reserved for intimacy between them. Though, in this moment, he wished for them both to see sense. To understand the consequences of their choices.
They were Targaryens, but as long as they ruled this Realm, they would not be completely free to do as they pleased. Their father had made the mistake of overlooking that single important detail. Viserys was determined not to follow that same path.
"Visenya, I cannot marry you.", he confessed.
"'Tis because of her, is it not?"
"Visenya…"
"That Essosi woman who has brought naught but trouble to our Court since you returned. She and her family have squandered the Velaryons' fortune, and have been the subject of much discord that it nearly tore us apart as a House. She has been gone for over a year now, and yet you cannot seem to escape her.", the Princess accused, her eyes now glistering with tears.
Viserys' own gaze softened, as he heard what thoughts had been burdening her. He could sense her love for him. It was not just words…or a rushed misunderstanding caused by the pleasure she still felt from what had occurred the previous night.
"You mean to lie by telling me that you did not feel what I felt back in the brothel?" she eventually asked him, and he pressed a finger to her lips.
Her tone was loud enough and the walls had ears. No one was to know that she had sneaked off to Flea Bottom the other night. Gods help them all should anyone ever discover that she had been in a brothel. Her reputation would be destroyed.
Pressing a kiss to his finger, Visenya reached for him once more and wrapped her hands around his neck, as she made another attempt to persuade him.
"Dīnagon nyke. Se mirre kessa sagon sȳrī." Marry me. And all will be well.
She was pleased to hear him speak in their ancestral tongue at long last…accepting this intimacy.
"Bisa iksis daor nūmāzma Larra Rogare. Iksā naejot dīnagon Lyonel Tyhrēl. Emi naejot gaomagon īlva qrinuntyssy qrīdrughagon." 'Tis not about Larra Rogare. You are to wed Lyonel Tyrell. We have to keep our enemies at bay.
"Se kosti iēdrosa gaomagon bisa." And we can still do so.
"Skorkydoso?" How?
"Īlon dīnagon Lyonel Tyhrēl naejot Prudence Celtigar." We marry Lyonel Tyrell to Prudence Celtigar.
Viserys' eyebrows shot up in surprise at her words, his fingers still caressing her waist, as she kept her arms wrapped tightly around his neck, refusing to let him go.
"Do you not believe this to be an insult to a Great House? The Crown had offered Lord Tyrell marriage to a Targaryen Princess. Are we to go back on our word and offer him a lady from Claw Isle? Lyonel Tyrell may be young, but he's no fool, Visenya. His advisors will see to that. And we are not in a position to anger the Paramount House of the Reach, especially when they are the only ones who can keep the Hightowers and the Peakes in line.", Viserys explained to her the political manner of seeing things.
Visenya, however, chose to speak from the heart.
"Prudence has been in awe of him since she first met him. And I have seen him looking at her."
"Visenya…Lyonel Tyrell is not Loreon Lannister. The Tyrells have never wronged this family in any way, and there is naught we can use to get them to agree to such a betrothal."
"I can speak to Lyonel myself…", she suggested but was cut off immediately.
"No!"
Viserys' hands tightened around her body possessively, as his eyes glowed dark once more. He had had enough of seeing her interact with that boy. Thoughts of them hand in hand consumed him during important Council meetings, making it impossible for him to think. He could not afford to continue in such way.
Putting all politicking aside, Viserys would be damned if he was to see her at the Tyrell Lord's side after Viserys himself had been the one to claim her maidenhead the previous night.
There was no going back for either of them. She was his…that much he understood. He could not use politicking to sway her, he could not let her go, and he most certainly could not afford to lose the alliance he had arranged with the Tyrells.
Sensing his conflict, Visenya smiled softly, batting her lashes up at him and saying, "'Tis the only way."
And so, it was. For Viserys was not about to give her up. She belonged to him. Body and soul.
With a small nod, Viserys gripped her chin with his fingers and pressed hard, as he brought her face closer to his.
"Your mind is sharp, my sweet.", he whispered against her lips, before kissing her deeply.
Visenya moaned and pulled him tighter against her, finding the strength in her arms to disrobe him and caress his chest once more. For one moment alone, she believed herself to be the winner, to have persuaded him of her powers of conviction.
She intended to speak to Lord Lyonel herself. However, naught was how she expected it to be.
With a yelp, Visenya felt him take a firm grip of her thighs, pushing her down on the bed, and ravaging her body as he did the previous night…preparing her for another intrusion of his throbbing member.
"But I shall handle this matter my own way.", Viserys concluded, before indulging himself in savoring the soft skin of her neck, whereas his hand reached down in hopes of touching her most hidden pearl.
…
Rhaena's cheeks wettened almost instantly. She was unable to keep a hold of her emotions…and even less able of choosing the proper reaction to such a news.
Grand Maester Alford instructed her to put down her skirts, and so she did, with the aid of the maids.
"Are you certain, Grand Maester?", she asked him, all the while wiping her cheeks.
The two maids aiding her were eying one another with what appeared to be suspicion.
"Quite certain, my lady."
The perfect timing of the Master of Laws surprised them all. Ser Corwyn entered the chambers, with several scrolls in his hands, as proof of his dedication to the post offered to him. He was eager to prove that his mind was just as sharp as his ancestral sword, Lady Forlorn.
"My dear…what is this?" Ser Corwyn asked, setting down his scrolls, as he observed the maids still holding onto Rhaena's skirts, while Grand Maester Alford was wiping his hands on a cloth.
"Oh, Corwyn!" Rhaena found herself exclaiming, as she rushed towards him and pulled him into her arms.
Corwyn was shaking at this point, too frightened of what Grand Maester Alford's examination of his wife could mean. She was nine and twenty years of age. A woman in truth but still young. Surely, there could not be anything wrong with her.
"Rhaena, what has happened?" Corwyn asked her, as he kissed her temple.
She began crying once more, as she exclaimed with pure joy, "We are to have a babe! Us! At last! A babe, Corwyn!"
Corwyn pushed her shoulders back slowly, so as to look into her eyes for confirmation, too shocked to speak.
Out of the corner of his eye, he did observe the two maids leaning close to one another and whispering.
"A babe." Corwyn mumbled, as realization dawned on him.
Rhaena giggled in delight, as she wrapped her hands around his neck and kissed him deeply.
What a blessing for them! The Gods above had been most kind.
This would not be the first time Ser Corwyn went through expecting a babe from his wife's belly.
"Are you well?" he demanded, instantly looking between her and Grand Maester Alford.
"You have naught to worry about, Ser Corwyn. Lady Rhaena is in good hands!" Alford declared with enthusiasm.
"I am well. As is our babe." Rhaena promised, kissing him once more.
Pulling back, Corwyn caressed her collarbone and looked downwards, almost as if hoping to see evidence of their child. Foolish, in truth. As it was definitely too early.
"I am pleased, of course. But after so many years of trying…" Corwyn spoke softly, while the maids had started to whisper once more.
Growing agitated at the much too crowded space, Corwyn held Rhaena protectively in his arms, and turned to the maids.
"Pardon me. Is there something which needs to be shared among the good folk in these rooms? For if there is, I invite you to speak!" he commanded firmly.
"No, Ser Corwyn.", one of the maids mumbled and even dropped into a curtsy, as if confessing to some despicable act.
"Very well. You may depart. All of you. I require a moment alone with my lady wife."
Offering a small nod, Alford ushered the maids out of the chambers at once.
Rhaena's eyebrows furrowed, as she gazed at Corwyn. "Husband…"
"I do not know what they were saying. But the way they were whispering to one another was most insulting."
"Mayhaps they were pleased for us." Rhaena replied, touching her belly.
Corwyn's gaze softened at the image before him. She was much too blinded by her happy news to see what had been happening behind her.
"Mayhaps…" Corwyn said pensively before pulling her in his arms once more.
After so long, the Gods had finally blessed them. Corwyn could only hope that their good fortune would not be tainted by whatever gossip the maids were insisting on spreading.
…
Visenya knew that mayhaps smiling, as she approached the Queen's chambers, was quite undesired in a period of mourning such as this one. Though, after so much pain, the Princess could feel her heart soar, especially after the events that occurred that morrow…in Viserys' bed.
There were two Gold Cloaks posted at the doors this time, and Visenya had to remind them of the Hand's demand that the Queen be oft visited so as her safety and that of her unborn child be ensured.
The two men looked at one another, before standing aside and letting the Princess pass.
Visenya had been hoping to see her little nephew, Daeron, playing on the floors, as he oft used to do in the past.
Not too many moons ago, Daenaera had been radiant, shining as bright as the sun above. She would almost always be seen with one of her children in her arms. Either Daeron or Baelor. But quite oft, it had been Baelor. And with this small prince gone, Daenaera had succumbed into a dark place…one many feared she would not be able to escape. Plenty of courtiers went so far as to suggest that the Queen would take her unborn child into the darkness along with her.
"Visenya!" Daenaera exclaimed in surprise at seeing her good-sister.
The dark circles remained under the Queen's eyes. A sorrowful expression. One which had oft been seen on the face of her own husband. Yet now, it was the 'little queen' herself who insisted on expressing her sorrow. She wore black, as expected, and she was holding a small white cloth of silk, with which she had been wiping away at the tears freeing themselves from her eyelids for many hours now. With such struggle, the redness in her cheeks had only intensified.
"Daenaera." Visenya responded in greeting, bending her head in respect to the Queen of the Seven Kingdoms.
The two young women regarded one another in silence, with Visenya's look to be that of pity and concern. Daenaera had grown tired of it.
"I do not know if you have heard. Rhaena is with child.", the 'little queen' made an attempt to direct attention away from herself.
Daenaera sat herself on the canopy bed, watching Visenya's face light up with joy.
"'Tis wonderful! I thought…" Visenya began saying, but the 'little queen' cut her off.
"That she cannot have children? Yes, many of us believed it so."
"Well, I am thoroughly happy. I am to have more nieces and nephews to spoil." Visenya told her with a giggle, as she joined her good-sister on the bed.
The Princess' reply only seemed to make the Queen flinch. The idea of more children running about the Red Keep, joyous and safe, as though her little Baelor had never existed, seemed to cause the 'little queen' a great deal of distress. She cared not for replacements.
"Is there something else that puts a smile on your face this morrow?" Daenaera suddenly asked her, and Visenya's cheeks instantly reddened.
As pleased as she was with what had transpired between her and Viserys, they had agreed to keep this matter between them. Elinda, Ser Joffrey and Ser Dennis had all been sworn to secrecy in regards to the Princess' whereabouts the previous night. Thankfully, neither one of them knew the true extent of the transgressions which had occurred in the brothel…and then, inside the King and Queen's own home.
Daenaera was proving to be quite observant, as she analyzed the Princess' reaction to her question. Visenya was intent on diverting the attention.
"How fares Daeron?"
The Queen's face soured, her blue eyes lacking any of the shine which the courtiers had been used to.
"He is well.", the 'little queen' responded drily.
"But not here." Visenya noted, trying at an open discussion about the obvious problem.
"I am hardly in the proper state to care for the child."
"Your child, Daenaera." Visenya corrected, as she grabbed a hold of her hand in comfort.
"Your son needs you. However much Baelor's death pains you, 'tis unfair for him to be deprived of his mother's embrace. You keeping your distance hurts him."
Closing her eyes, Daenaera let loose her tears, whispering, "I know. I just need more time."
A moment of silence passed.
"We have punished the traitor. Johanna Lannister is no more." Visenya insisted.
"And yet…why do I feel that justice has not prevailed?"
"A life for a life." Visenya mumbled.
"'Tis not that."
"Then what?"
Visenya was trying her hardest to understand.
With a sigh, Daenaera squeezed the Princess' hand, and stated, "I know that I am not one for deep thoughts. The smallfolk once praised me to be the perfect Queen for a Realm who had been through war. They adored me. As did the regents. They liked me pretty, small, quiet…full of light to nourish their sullen King, my husband."
Noticing that Visenya was now frowning, her lip twitching, Daenaera made a note to herself not to speak in such ways about Aegon in front of his sister again. The 'little queen' never blamed him for needing her light. No one in their family had been through as much pain as he had. But even so…it had been most difficult for her to constantly provide him with what he needed.
"I love him with all my heart, Visenya. But I cannot give him what he needs anymore." Daenaera explained her feelings openly.
"He only needs your love." Visenya insisted.
"Mayhaps that will not be enough."
"It will be. Daenaera, you will recover. All will be well. Daeron is going to have his mother back in his life and we will all move on. You shall have another babe…and we will love this little one just the same."
"And what of the threat to this family?"
"The Lannisters are no threats. Especially now with Elinor as Lady of Casterly Rock."
"Not the Lannisters. The others." Daenaera whispered, locking eyes with Visenya as she said it.
"Others?"
"I told you, Visenya. I am not one for deep thoughts. Though, I do believe that Johanna Lannister did not act alone."
"She was a mad woman who hated our family."
"Yes, she was mad. But mayhaps that is precisely what made her a good sacrifice." Daenaera replied, wisely.
"You think there are other conspirators who arranged Baelor's death through Johanna?"
"Yes." Daenaera mumbled, her eyes turning to the glass window. Her expression seemed hollow once more, and Visenya worried that their 'little queen' would once more succumb to her grief.
"They think me pretty, kind…full of light. Meek, as well." Daenaera repeated herself, as though she was having dreams.
Visenya gently ran her fingers through her good-sister's long silver, gold-laced curls, as Daenaera continued speaking, her tone becoming darker.
"The traitors who killed my babe…they are worth naught more than the mud on one's shoes. They murdered my poor boy, and they shall answer for it."
…
"I do not understand." Aegon mumbled, as he looked towards the stone floor, deep in thought.
"We are to find another bride for Lord Lyonel Tyrell." Viserys managed to repeat himself, his eyes cast towards the floor as well, trying with all his might to keep his breathing normal.
He detested lying to his brother. But Visenya and him had agreed not to reveal their indiscretions to the King. His poor heart could not bear another scandal. They would keep what happened between them quiet, and after a short while, once the betrothal between Visenya and Lord Lyonel had been broken, Viserys would approach Aegon and ask permission to court her.
"You yourself said that we need to keep the Tyrells close to the Crown. And betrothing Visenya to their lord was the only way to do so." Aegon spoke rationally, softly and still not meeting his brother's gaze.
For the first time since the night in the Dragonpit when they had sung to the Gods of Old Valyria, Viserys was nervous in regards to his older brother's unpredictable behavior. It seemed to him that Aegon understood more than he let on. And mayhaps he was beginning to use this to his advantage…make others around him believe that he is weak and unintelligent…whereas he made his own plans.
It had taken a great deal of strength to overcome his fear of dragons and go alone in the Dragonpit holding one such creature. Aegon was beginning to deliver a clear message. He was not to be underestimated. For he was also the son of Queen Rhaenyra and Prince Daemon Targaryen.
Clearing his throat, Viserys replied, "I did say that. However, I must tell you, brother…I fear that Visenya may grow to have much resentment towards this imposed future husband of hers. The point behind this marriage proposal is to keep the Tyrells in our bosom and as such, keep our enemies from the Reach at bay. Should Visenya treat Lyonel Tyrell with disrespect when becoming Lady of Highgarden, I fear that the alliance shall crumble."
The Hand had prepared his speech long and hard that morrow. It was not perfect. A wiser, more experienced man would have seen right through this lie…and observed the desire Viserys had for the Princess.
"And what do you suggest?" Aegon eventually asked with a sigh.
"I have heard some interesting talk. That Lyonel Tyrell is quite taken with one of Visenya's ladies, Prudence Celtigar. We make an offer of marriage to a woman Lord Lyonel might truly enjoy to have as a wife. I, for one, have not sensed any desire between him and Visenya. Rest assured that I have inspected them carefully in their period of courting, brother. 'Tis not a good match. I was wrong."
Aegon's dark purple eyes widened at the last part of his brother's speech, and Viserys understood why. It was not oft that the Hand admitted his fault in a matter.
"You…were wrong." Aegon mumbled, as though not believing his own ears.
Swallowing his pride, Viserys gave a curt nod and then moved to change such subject.
"I have arranged for a meeting with Lyonel Tyrell on this morrow."
"Oh, I see. And were you planning on inviting me? I am but…the King of the Seven Kingdoms."
Aegon's tone made an almost smile appear on Viserys' face at his brother's attempt at a jest.
It seemed that the times were changing…and for the better. Whatever may have happened in the Dragonpit the night they sang to the Fourteen Flames, it seemed to have had a good effect on Aegon. Slowly but surely, he was beginning to let go of the pain for the tragedy which had occurred. The King was now more…alive. Unfortunately, from what Viserys had heard, the same could not be said about Daenaera.
"By all means, handle the matter yourself." Aegon stated, waving him off, a tinge of annoyance in his voice.
"Brother…I meant no disrespect. The situation is…complicated, to say the least. And Visenya…you are well aware of how she is. The moment she found out about her betrothal, she closed herself off in her rooms for days and only agreed to come out so she could burden you with her complaints." Viserys reasoned, scolding himself on the inside for having said such things about his Princess.
However, for the moment, he needed to maintain appearances. As far as the Court was concerned, he and Visenya were at odds, especially due to the betrothal he had forced upon her.
Aegon seemed to be thinking the matter thoroughly. It pained Viserys to think that he had to tell such lies to the brother he had loved from the moment he was born. It was unusual for the two of them to keep secrets from one another.
Alas, they were now grown men. Aegon had failed to mention to his brother how well versed he was in High Valyrian, and Viserys…well…he had far greater private affairs to keep from reaching anyone's ear.
After much deliberation, the King and the Hand made their way to the Godswood together, the place where Viserys had arranged the meeting with the young Lord of Highgarden.
Coming face to face with a much too joyous Lord Lyonel, Aegon allowed Viserys to take the lead, after the formal greetings had been made.
To the King's shock, his brother had not even attempted to use his usual sharp tongue made for politicking, as a way to guarantee a slow transition to a broken betrothal.
The words of the Crown's opinion that the match was not well-suited after all, seemed to have affected the Tyrell boy far more than Viserys had hoped.
"Has the Princess said something, Lord Hand? Have I displeased her in any way?", the young Paramount Lord of the Reach mumbled.
Viserys raised a brow as he noticed the boy's bottom lip trembling slightly. This news to him was as if someone was about to take away his favorite toy. It had little effect on him, however.
Viserys' possessive streak now seemed to consume him. Regardless of the circumstances, Visenya was now his. The evidence of that had been pooled between her thighs earlier that morrow. His touch, his scent, his seed. All that marked her as his own.
Nevertheless, Viserys was not about to let go of this alliance. The Tyrells were the key to the Reach. Their absence in the war proved to be most fruitful, as their wealth only grew, surpassing that of the Hightowers.
The threat to the Targaryens had always come from the Reach. They would have to put a stop to it. And the cunning Viserys knew that with the loss of Targaryen personal strength, the only way to bend the Reach to their will, would be through the Bank of Oldtown.
It seemed that the Gods were in their favor on this matter. Lyonel Tyrell was more concerned with the idea that he had somehow displeased the Princess and by extension, the Crown. Older and more experienced lords would have recognized this for what it was. A slight on behalf of the Crown towards a powerful and influential House.
Clearing his throat, Viserys attempted to hide his smile, as he made the long-awaited suggestion.
"Do not trouble yourself, Lord Lyonel. Even though this match is not to be, the King and I have a different proposition in mind, which we believe will be acceptable to you."
Lyonel's eyes instantly lit up, as he looked towards Aegon, as if pleading with him for what the Hand was saying to be true.
The King only gave a small, courteous nod, as he allowed his younger brother to continue speaking.
Taking a step closer to the boy, Viserys lowered his voice, as he said, "'Tis no secret around Court that you are taken with the Princess' lady-in-waiting, Prudence Celtigar."
"My lord!" Lyonel Tyrell immediately exclaimed, his eyes wandering about, nervously.
Viserys felt sorry for the boy. He had just taken his first step into politicking after his mother died. He knew not much of how to handle matters in his interest and the interest of his House. Which meant that as long as he married someone loyal to the Crown, the Targaryens could consider themselves safe from any further attacks from the Reach.
The times were no longer that of King Viserys, when the Hightowers had been at the height of their power in the Realm, with enough influence to convince other lords not to bend to the will of their own Paramount House.
Now, the Tyrells were the ones with most influence and greatest army in the Reach, and since Viserys played the game well, he would soon have more than he hoped for. The Bank of Oldtown…and Visenya.
Eying Aegon carefully, Viserys continued speaking as though this was not a politically strategic move, but rather a matter of pure love. "Fear not, Lord Lyonel. For the Crown is eager to give you the lady's hand in marriage…if you would have it."
…
"Is Queen Daenaera well?", was the first thing that escaped Prudence's mouth, as Visenya made her way inside her chambers, a smile on her lips.
Viserys had just given the Princess the news…and it was the time for her to ensure that Prudence would agree to the Crown's proposition.
"She is fine.", the Princess assured all of her ladies, before coming forward and taking Prudence's hands in hers.
"You will be pleased to know that I am no longer to marry Lyonel Tyrell." Visenya revealed, as which point all three of her ladies gasped in unison.
"You broke your betrothal? How did you manage?!" Sarra Stark exclaimed from the corner of the rooms, her mouth gaping, her eyes shining, as though fairly interested in learning Visenya's cunning ways herself.
Sarra was young, but no fool. She knew that her father would attempt to marry her off eventually. Most likely to some lord in the North, and as such, all liberties her mother had given her would die the moment she said her vows.
Little Jeyne Arryn's eyes were shining as well, but not for the same reason. The girl placed her hands over her heart, as she realized what the Princess was attempting to do.
"'Tis to be a marriage. But one between you and him." Visenya explained.
Prudence's face showed recognition, and her eyes almost instantly watered, as shock and disbelief overcame her.
No one expected such a reaction from a bold lady such as herself.
"Visenya, please…tell me I did naught to destroy your agreement with House Tyrell. You must believe that I had no intention…"
Visenya simply shook her head, calming her friend with soothing words. "There is naught you have destroyed. I have seen his eyes wandering towards you when you followed behind us during our long walks. And I know that through anger, you have expressed your displeasure for my match because you are taken with him. I understand that."
"But…"
"There is no but. Aegon and Viserys themselves have made the proposition to him. He has accepted. Now, all we need is your consent." Visenya insisted, getting all giddy herself at the thought of being responsible for arranging another advantageous match for one of her ladies. And a highly important one for the Crown at that.
The Lannisters had once represented a threat of their family. Now, Loreon Lannister was intent on proving that times were changing. Elinor Massey as Lady of Casterly Rock would surely make certain that the Westerlands would align with the Crown from this moment forth.
The Tyrells had not taken any sides during the war. Lyonel's mother, much to Visenya's displeasure, had decided that Highgarden would keep to itself, preserve all their gold and good men. Now that the war was over, Visenya believed that the Tyrells were indebted to the Crown, since they had not provided the Blacks with the necessary resources to protect the ascension of Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen against the usurpers.
A match between the young lord and a most trusted lady of the Princess, would prove to be just as beneficial as the match between Lord Lannister and Lady Massey.
Politicking aside, Visenya was most pleased with the idea that Prudence would relieve her of an unwanted match, so she could be with the man she most desired.
"Prudence, you are to be the Lady of Highgarden!" Little Jeyne exclaimed, shocking Prudence with her joy at the news.
The two ladies had not been on good terms ever since the question of Isembard Arryn becoming Little Jeyne's suitor came into place. And yet, through their shared love for the Princess they served, they found a way to get close to one another once more.
Prudence's gaze met Visenya's, and an understanding was formed through both of their smiles.
…
Viserys was making his way to the Council chambers swiftly, with his hands behind his back and his dark red robes bearing the proud Hand pin.
He had called this meeting in order for Aegon to officially declare the betrothal of Lord Lyonel Tyrell and Lady Prudence Celtigar…allowing for new marriage proposals to be put forth for the Princess.
Viserys was taking deep breaths, as he moved towards the Council chambers, deep in thought of his morrow at Visenya's side. She spoke of marriage to him…and yet, he had sworn to himself that he would not take another wife after Larra Rogare.
Thoughts of moon tea had not left his mind either. What had happened the previous night could not result in a child…for the sake of the Princess' reputation.
A delicate hand suddenly reached out and pulled at his robes, directing him into a far corner of the Keep's halls…away from the sight of the Gold Cloaks.
"Visenya.", the Hand whispered almost instantly, seeing her smile in the darkness, as she pulled him in for a kiss.
He accepted her kiss almost immediately, his hand reaching to cup her cheek lovingly, as she opened her mouth wider, welcoming his tongue.
Once their lips parted, Visenya rubbed her nose against his, whispering, "I am free to wed you."
The smile remained on her face, hoping to elicit one of his own. However, Viserys could do naught but hold her in his arms and keep his eyes closed.
Sensing his resistance once more, Visenya ran her fingers at the hair on the back of his neck, telling him softly, "Forget about her. Please."
Opening his eyes at long last, he could do naught but praise her for her wits. So many people underestimated the Princess, for they saw her as young and spoiled, much like her mother had been. And yet, she had now aided the Crown with the arrangement of two strategic marriages. And through them…she knew she would eventually get what she wanted. Him.
"I made a vow to myself, my sweet." Viserys attempted to explain himself.
"You were foolish…and grieving. It was the only love you knew. But it was no love. No true one." Visenya replied, taking his hand from her cheek and pressing it over her heart.
"This is love.", she mumbled, and Viserys once more felt his reasoning weakening.
He was powerless against her. He tried…he fought, as he was used to. He oft enjoyed their fights…for it always seemed to sharpen his mind. Yet, at the end of the day, no matter how much he resisted, he knew he would yield to her.
"You require moon tea.", he managed to whisper once more.
He expected fury to come gushing through her. Yet, it never came.
There was another look on her face. That of complete understanding…which was unnerving him.
"Avy jorrāelan." I love you.
Her sweet voice made his heart flutter with joy, as he succumbed to his true emotions.
"Issa dōna. Issa prūmia. Issa mēre." My sweet. My heart. My one.
Their lips connected once more in a more passionate kiss.
He pushed her against the wall, pulling at her dress so as to reveal a bare shoulder.
Kissing her pearl white skin, Viserys expressed more amorous words which only made her shiver with anticipation.
"Issa jorrāelagon." My love.
…
Visenya had insisted that she attend this Small Council meeting, as the subject of her own ended betrothal was to be the main point of discussion.
Viserys had decided to indulge her, though insisted that she enter the chambers moments after him, so as to not raise any suspicions. He was already having doubts that Aegon believed his motives for choosing a different bride for Lyonel Tyrell.
The King had his eyes on both Viserys and Visenya while in the chambers…deep thoughts seeming to keep his mind occupied.
The meeting would not reach its end, however, as the doors instantly opened…without so much as a knock.
"What is the meaning of this?" Viserys asked, furrowing his brows, as he noticed both Ser Edmund Warrick and Ser Dennis Whitfield…accompanied by a Dragonkeeper.
"Your Grace, my Lord Hand. You are to come to the Dragonpit at once!" Ser Edmund exclaimed.
There was excitement on the faces of both knights as they locked eyes with their Lord Commander.
Visenya stood on her feet, asking, "What has happened?"
"One of the eggs, my Princess! It hatched! That's what this man claims." Ser Dennis replied, pointing to the Dragonkeeper.
In no time at all, the entire family had rushed on top of the Hill of Rhaenys.
Visenya was sprinting in her long dress, Viserys close behind, ready to intervene should she trip on her skirts.
To everyone's surprise, Aegon began sprinting, his eyes wild, holding his crown in his hand, as Daenaera, Alyn, Baela, Rhaena and Corwyn were quickening their pace as well.
Alyn looked furious…mayhaps thinking about the time when a hatchling such as this one attacked and permanently injured his daughter.
Morning was waiting for them. The pink she-dragon was standing, facing the entrance of the Dragonpit…almost as though she was in a protective stance.
Rhaena immediately stepped forward so as to calm her mount.
"Gīda, issa gevives." Calm, my beauty.
Morning let loose a shriek, as she pressed her snout close to Rhaena's face.
"Look!" Visenya exclaimed with a smile, as she pointed behind one of Morning's wings. It had kept the newborn hatchling hidden.
Dark grey…much like Stormcloud had been, but with magnificent dark blue membranes.
"'Tis the dragon egg you touched, Aegon! When you sang to the Fourteen Flames! 'Tis, the Gods' blessing!" Visenya told him, revealing to the rest of the family what had transpired not too long before in the Dragonpit.
Aegon's eyes were wide, his mouth parted, as he regarded the hatchling. The remains of the dark grey egg were close by, confirming that it had been the one he had touched, when he had been in desperate need of a connection to the Gods of Old Valyria.
The hatchling let out a small whine, as he moved clumsily towards the family.
Alyn had his hand on his sword blade, on instinct, ready to protect them all should the wyrm prove to be just as menacing as the last one that had been born in Laena's cradle.
To everyone's shock, the little dragon was slowly but surely making his way towards Aegon, letting out small whimpers, as though intending on revealing himself to the King alone.
Aegon instantly took a step back as soon as the hatchling got too close. His eyes hardened.
"Keep him in chains!" the King ordered the Dragonkeepers.
"Aegon, no." Daenaera whispered, but her husband would not hear her disapproval.
"No!" Visenya nearly screamed, as she looked towards the little hatchling with naught but love.
Aegon turned to Viserys, Alyn and Corwyn, telling them, "We cannot go back to the old ways. We will not."
Soon afterwards, the King was making his way out of the Dragonpit, despite Daenaera's efforts to stop him.
"The Gods have blessed you, and you are to turn your back on their gift?! These eggs had remained ice cold for years. Your hands brought this hatchling into our lives! Do you enjoy being called the Dragonbane?! AEGON!" Visenya spoke rapidly, yelling after him.
The King chose to ignore his sister, as he continued walking.
Feeling her anger boiling at the thought of the Gods choosing her most ungrateful brother for such an honor, when she herself had no dragon of her own despite how much she wanted one, Visenya exclaimed, "Mother and Father would be ashamed of you!"
"Visenya!" Viserys scolded her.
She had gone too far with her words. Visenya herself knew that, as she watched Aegon stop in his tracks.
The Dragonkeepers approached the small grey hatchling with chains, as Morning let out a roar of disapproval, but Rhaena managed to keep her in line.
The Broken King closed his eyes when hearing the small dragon let out a small whimper.
A single tear streamed down Aegon's cheek, and the horrific images of his past life were coming back to him in an instant.
His mother's stance. The usurper's cackling, as he ordered the dragon's flames to engulf her.
A/N: I hope you all enjoyed this chapter. We have a new hatchling in the family. And soon enough, we will delve into the third plot of this story! The story is updated on Ao3 as well. Thank you all for reading!