In the Year 113 AC, the Dragonpit had become a hidden sanctuary of both wonder and secrecy for Aelys. Now fourteen, she had spent the past year and a half nurturing the five dragons born from the ancient ritual. The large, echoing chamber was filled with the soft rustling of scales and the occasional chirps and growls of the young dragons.
Aelys entered the Dragonpit with a familiar sense of purpose and care. The once-smoldering remains of the ritual had long since been cleared, and in its place, the pit had been transformed into a comfortable and secure habitat for the dragons. A collection of carefully arranged bedding, piles of fresh meat, and water troughs adorned the space, all tended to by Aelys's hands.
Verdant, the dragon born from the emerald green egg, was now a graceful, small creature with scales of deep green. It lay curled up on a patch of soft bedding, its elegant body stretching in the sunlight that filtered through the cracks in the stone. Verdant's large, expressive eyes followed Aelys with a calm, intelligent gaze, the same curiosity that had been evident from its first moments of life. The dragon's wings, a slightly darker shade of green, fluttered with gentle movements as it woke from its nap, stretching its limbs with a fluid grace.
Cerulea, hatched from the pale gray egg, was larger than its siblings but still small and delicate. Its fine, textured scales, etched with faint silver lines, gave it an ancient and dignified appearance. Cerulea moved with a reserved elegance, its semi-transparent wings catching the light in an iridescent display. As Aelys approached, Cerulea lifted its head, its deep eyes reflecting a wisdom beyond its years. The dragon seemed to sense Aelys's presence, and its gaze softened with a quiet strength.
Inferna, the dragon from the golden egg, was a striking figure with scales of molten gold. Its body was dappled with dark spots, mimicking the texture of its egg, and its wings radiated a fiery quality. Despite its youth, Inferna's movements were confident and regal, its small frame showing hints of the powerful dragon it would become. It puffed out small bursts of warm air, its tiny breath already hinting at its fiery potential.
Solaris, emerging from the vibrant blue egg, was a lively, energetic dragon with brilliant azure scales flecked with silver. Its small, sleek form darted around the Dragonpit, fluttering its wings with excitement. The silver streaks on its wings mirrored the stardust-like specks on its scales, giving it an almost magical appearance. Solaris's boundless energy and playful nature brought a sense of joy to the Dragonpit, its eyes sparkling with the same electric energy that had marked its hatching.
Lunara, the dragon born from the dark purple egg, was the most enigmatic of the five. Its rich, velvety purple scales absorbed the light, giving it a mysterious and almost otherworldly aura. Lunara's sleek body and shadowy wings moved with a quiet, graceful elegance. The dragon's deep eyes, reflecting hidden depths, seemed to hold secrets and potential as it observed Aelys with an inscrutable expression.
Aelys moved through the Dragonpit with practiced ease, attending to each dragon's needs. She placed fresh meat in the feeding area, and the young dragons eagerly approached, their small, hungry forms growing rapidly. As they fed, Aelys took a moment to watch them with a tender smile, her heart swelling with pride and affection.
Each dragon had developed its own personality, and Aelys had learned to read their signals and needs. Verdant's calm presence, Cerulea's reserved wisdom, Inferna's fiery confidence, Solaris's playful energy, and Lunara's mysterious grace all contributed to a dynamic and harmonious environment.
As she finished her chores, Aelys sat down near the center of the Dragonpit, her gaze drifting over the five dragons. She reflected on the journey that had brought her to this point—the ritual, the secrecy, and the bond she had built with these remarkable creatures. Her thoughts turned to the future, the challenges she would face, and the responsibility of guarding the ancient knowledge she held.
With a final, affectionate glance at her dragons, Aelys rose and prepared to leave the Dragonpit. She knew that while the joy of their companionship was immense, she also carried the weight of the ritual's power and its potential consequences. She walked away with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to protect her dragons and the secret they represented, ensuring that their legacy remained a beacon of hope and wonder.
Aelys walked down the winding corridors of the Red Keep, her thoughts still lingering on the warmth and joy of the Dragonpit. As she reached her chamber, she unlocked the door and stepped inside, closing it quietly behind her.
Her room was a sanctuary of both practicality and elegance. The walls were lined with rich tapestries depicting scenes of dragon lore and Targaryen history, their deep reds and golds adding warmth to the space. The interior of her room was richly decorated with deep, warm colors that spoke of both comfort and heritage. The floors were covered with plush rugs of deep crimson and gold, softening each step. A large four-poster bed draped in rich velvet curtains dominated one corner of the room, while a large, intricately carved oak desk stood against the opposite wall.
The desk was cluttered with a collection of Valyrian books, scrolls, and manuscripts. Each tome was carefully bound in leather, their spines bearing the ornate markings of Valyrian script. The desk itself was a testament to both Aelys's dedication and her thirst for knowledge. The large window by the desk let in a soft, golden light, casting a warm glow over the room and the scattered volumes. Candles flickered softly in their sconces, casting a warm, golden glow over the pages of ancient books. Shelves filled with volumes of Valyrian lore and dragon history lined the walls, their spines arranged in neat rows.
Aelys approached the desk, brushing aside a few loose papers to make room for her task. She picked up a particularly worn book, its cover embossed with the Targaryen sigil. The title, "The Dragons of Valyria: Raising the Ancient Kin," was etched in faded gold lettering.
She opened the book to a bookmarked page, her eyes scanning the text. The pages were filled with detailed descriptions of dragon behavior, hatching rituals, and the history of dragon-keeping. Aelys muttered to herself as she read, her brow furrowed in concentration.
"I need to find more about how to care for them properly," she said softly, turning the pages with careful fingers. "Raising them without trying to control them… it's crucial they remain free in spirit."
She picked up a particularly worn volume, titled "The Secrets of Dragon Lore and Care," its cover embossed with intricate patterns. She carefully opened the book, flipping through the pages filled with arcane symbols and detailed illustrations of dragons in various stages of life. The text was dense, written in the flowing script of Old Valyrian, but Aelys's familiarity with the language made it accessible to her.
The challenge of raising dragon hatchlings was both exhilarating and daunting. Aelys had always known that dragons could not be controlled in the traditional sense; they were majestic, sentient creatures with their own wills and temperaments. What she sought was guidance on how to nurture and bond with them, fostering their growth without attempting to dominate them.
As she read, her attention was drawn to a passage that described the importance of understanding a dragon's individual needs and temperaments. It emphasized the necessity of respect and patience, rather than control, in raising dragons. Aelys's mind raced with the implications of these insights.
"Mother, I wish you could have been here to see this," she murmured softly, her voice barely above a whisper. She closed her eyes for a moment, imagining her mother's presence and the guidance she would have offered.
As she flipped through the book, a voice broke the silence. Her elder sister, Rhaenyra, entered the room with a concerned expression.
"Aelys, I thought I heard you coming in. What are you up to?" Rhaenyra asked, her gaze settling on the scattered books and papers.
Aelys looked up, startled from her focused reading. "Rhaenyra, I didn't hear you come in. I'm just… researching. I want to make sure I'm doing everything right for the dragons. They're growing so fast, and I need to understand them better."
Rhaenyra approached the desk, her eyes scanning the open book. "Dragons are a challenge even for the most seasoned riders. What are you looking for?"
"I want to learn more about raising them without trying to control them," Aelys explained, her voice tinged with determination. "I know that dragons are wild and untamable by nature. It's about nurturing their spirit, not bending them to my will."
Rhaenyra nodded, her expression thoughtful. "That's a wise approach. Dragons have always been part of our legacy, but it's crucial to respect their nature. If you're interested, I have some older manuscripts that might help. They're in the library archives."
Aelys's eyes brightened with interest. "That would be wonderful. I'd be grateful for any additional information."
"Of course," Rhaenyra said with a reassuring smile. "I'll help you find them. You've done well so far, Aelys. The bond you're forming with them is already evident."
Aelys smiled back, appreciating her sister's support. "Thank you, Rhaenyra. I just want to ensure I'm providing the best care for them. They deserve that."
Rhaenyra patted her sister's shoulder gently. "Let's start with the library then. I'll join you. There's no better way to understand dragons than through the wisdom of those who came before us."
Together, they left the room, Aelys carrying the book she had been reading, and Rhaenyra leading the way to the library. The flickering candlelight and the scent of old parchment filled the air as they ventured through the corridors, both sisters united in their quest for knowledge and understanding of the magnificent creatures that were so integral to their heritage.
Aelys, Rhaenyra and Alicent went to The Great Sept on Visenya's Hill passing by septs, septas, and the statues of the seven gods Westeros worshipped. While they walked, Rhaenyra spoke to her friends about the frustrations she experienced with the council members.
"It's only been half a year since my mother died, and already they tried to marry my father off and replace me as heir," Rhaenyra said as the girls soon came up to a statue of one of the seven gods with lit candles, "I know those men and how they plot in their secret councils when I've been sent away,"
"You cannot worry about the matters of lords and kings, Rhaenyra," Alicent told her friend as she walked to a bench nearby where a small box of candles was waiting to be used. "What if your father were to remarry."
Aelys looked at Alicent and could tell there was something in her question, but she couldn't figure out what. She then turned her head and looked at Rhaenyra as she began to look away from her friends.
"Rhae, you know your father is expected to remarry to produce more heirs whether you're heir or not. Regardless of whether you are a son or daughter." Aelys said, seeing the look on Rhaenyra. "Besides, he would never replace us with any child his new wife will give him."
"Leah's right. Your father loves you and Aelys very much." Alicent said, holding a candle. "He chose you for his heir."
"He didn't choose me." Rhaenyra corrected her friend and sister, "He spurns Daemon."
"And yet, your father had all the realm's lords come to King's Landing, bent the knee, and declared you heir to the Iron Throne." Aelys reminded her, "Why would he go to those lengths if he was going to replace you."
Rhaenyra looked at her sister and then down to the floor, knowing her friend had a point. Alicent then knelt in front of the table with the lit candles. She lit a small match to light the candle she had. When the candle was lit, she blew out the match and then put her hands in prayer. She then looked at her friends and said, "Kneel with me."
Aelys turned back to Rhaenyra and gave her a smile as she took her hand and walked her closer to Alicent as they knelt and followed Alicent's lead as Aelys knelt in the middle of them and Rhaenyra at the other end.
"I find this is a way to be with my mother." Alicent said softly as her friends looked at her, "Here in the quiet of the Sept. I feel close to her. I know it sounds foolish."
"We don't think it's foolish," Rhaenyra assured her as Alicent saw her friends give her warm and understanding smiles.
All three girls knew what it was like to lose a mother. Alicent's mothers died from illnesses, and Rhaenyra and Aelys's mother died from failed pregnancy while both of their fathers were busy ruling the kingdom. They were all the only ones that could understand being alone.
"Good," Alicent said, happy she wouldn't do this alone, "Because I thought we should all try." She then handed the match to her friends. Leah took the match as she began to light her own candle, but Alicent saw Rhaenyra was reluctant.
"If not for me, then perhaps for them." Alicent urged as the girls looked at the statues that represented the gods. Rhaenyra then took the match from Leah and lit her own candle.
"What do I say?" Rhaenyra asked; she never prayed to the gods like Aelys and Alicent. The Targaryens say they were followers of the Faith of the Seven, but it was mostly for political reasons than genuine conversion.
"It's only for you and the gods to know," Alicent reassured her.
The girls were all silent as they prayed. Then Rhaenyra began to cry as her friends looked at her, with Leah putting her hands on Rhaenyra's shoulder to console her.
"I want him to see me as more than his little girl," Rhaenyra said tearfully. Her father made her heir, but he still treats her the same. His little girl, who doesn't know what she's doing, hurts her. How was she supposed to be the heir if her father didn't treat her as one?
"Then show your father; you are not a little girl anymore." Aelys told her softly as Rhaenyra looked at her, "Show him you are the heir to the throne."
"My own father does not know the language of girls either." Alicent chuckled as the girls chuckled, "When I wish to talk with him, I know that I must make the effort."
"Thank you," Rhaenyra smiled tearfully as the three girls took each other's hands. They may feel alone, but they will always be there for each other like real sisters.
The sun was beginning its descent, casting a warm, golden light over the sprawling landscape of King's Landing. Aelys made her way through the bustling streets and corridors of the Red Keep, her mind focused on the upcoming flight. She carried with her a sense of excitement and anticipation as she approached the entrance to the Dragonpit.
The Dragonpit's massive doors creaked open, revealing the familiar sight of the cavernous space. Aelys entered, the cool, musty air greeting her as she stepped inside. The large, open area was alive with the subtle sounds of her dragons: the rustle of scales, the occasional chirp, and the soft crackle of embers from the hearths.
Verdant, Cerulea, Inferna, Solaris, and Lunara were already stirring, their eyes lighting up as they saw Aelys. Each dragon had grown significantly since their hatching, though they still retained their youthful charm. Verdant's deep green scales gleamed in the light, Cerulea's iridescent wings shimmered, Inferna's molten gold scales flickered with a warm glow, Solaris's blue scales sparkled with a vibrant energy, and Lunara's dark purple form exuded a quiet mystery.
Aelys walked over to her dragons, her heart swelling with affection. She knelt down to greet each one, her hands gently stroking their scales.
"Hello, my beautiful friends," she said softly, her voice filled with warmth. "I'm going to take Morghul out for a flight today. I want to visit Dragonstone and see Vermithor and Silverwing. I'll be back soon, but I wanted to say goodbye before I go."
Verdant nuzzled her hand, its calm eyes reflecting a deep bond with Aelys. Cerulea approached with a reserved, yet affectionate demeanor, while Solaris fluttered around excitedly, clearly sensing the excitement of the day. Inferna let out a soft, warm puff of air, and Lunara's enigmatic eyes followed her movements with a quiet, knowing gaze.
Aelys gave each dragon a final, loving touch before turning her attention to the large stone hearth where Morghul was resting. The massive dragon lay curled up, his deep red scales shimmering with a faint, fiery glow. His golden eyes, filled with wisdom and warmth, opened as Aelys approached.
"Morghul," she called softly, reaching out to gently stroke his snout. "We're going to take a trip to Dragonstone. I want to see how Vermithor and Silverwing are faring."
Morghul's eyes glinted with understanding, and he rose to his full height, stretching his wings and letting out a low, rumbling growl of anticipation. Aelys could feel the bond between them, a connection forged through countless flights and shared experiences.
With a final glance at her other dragons, Aelys mounted Morghul, settling into the familiar saddle. She adjusted the reins and gave a reassuring pat to her dragon.
"Ready when you are, old friend," she said, her voice filled with confidence and excitement.
Morghul responded with a powerful flap of his wings, lifting off the ground with a smooth, practiced grace. The Dragonpit receded below them as they soared into the sky, the wind whipping around them and the sun casting a warm glow on the horizon.
Aelys leaned forward slightly, her eyes scanning the landscape below. The journey to Dragonstone was one she had made many times before, but each trip was a new adventure filled with the promise of discovery and connection.
As they flew, Aelys allowed herself a moment of reflection. The bond she shared with her dragons was a source of great pride and joy. Each dragon, from the playful Solaris to the wise Cerulea, had become a part of her life in ways she had never imagined. And now, as she approached Dragonstone, she was eager to reconnect with her grandfathers' dragons, Vermithor and Silverwing, and continue to build upon the legacy of dragonkind.
The dark silhouette of Dragonstone began to appear on the horizon, and Aelys felt a surge of excitement. The castle's rugged, volcanic structure stood as a testament to the power and majesty of the Targaryen legacy. Morghul glided gracefully toward the island, the air around them filled with the promise of a new chapter in their ongoing journey.
As Aelys and Morghul approached Dragonstone, the island's rugged, volcanic landscape came into sharper focus. The ancient fortress of Dragonstone rose majestically from the rocky cliffs, its dark stone walls interspersed with patches of glowing lava and craggy outcroppings. The sight of the island, with its swirling mists and turbulent seas, always filled Aelys with a sense of awe and reverence.
Morghul descended gracefully toward the island, his powerful wings beating rhythmically as he guided them toward a familiar landing spot. The stone courtyard of Dragonstone, lined with statues and dragon-themed carvings, came into view. Aelys could see the welcoming committee—a few guards and attendants—already waiting for her arrival.
As Morghul touched down, the ground rumbled softly under their weight. The attendants, dressed in dark, practical garb, stepped forward with respectful bows. Aelys dismounted with practiced ease, giving Morghul an affectionate pat before turning her attention to the attendants.
"Welcome, Lady Aelys," one of the attendants said, bowing deeply. "Lord Vermithor and Lady Silverwing are expecting you. Please follow me."
Aelys nodded and followed the attendant through the fortress gates, her heart pounding with anticipation. The corridors of Dragonstone were cool and dimly lit, their walls adorned with dragon-themed tapestries and relics from the Targaryen lineage. The air was thick with the scent of burning torches and the occasional whiff of sulfur from the island's volcanic activity.
The attendant led Aelys through the winding hallways until they reached a grand chamber at the heart of the fortress. The room was large and open, with high ceilings supported by massive stone columns. The walls were lined with intricate carvings depicting dragons in flight and scenes from Targaryen history.
In the center of the chamber, resting comfortably on a bed of smooth, black stones, were Vermithor and Silverwing. Vermithor, the legendary dragon of Aelys' grandfather, was a majestic creature with scales of deep bronze and eyes that glowed with a wise, ancient light. His wings were vast, their leathery membranes stretched out in a relaxed pose. Beside him lay Silverwing, a dragon of striking silver scales that gleamed with a pearlescent shimmer. Her eyes were softer, filled with a nurturing warmth that contrasted with Vermithor's imposing presence.
Aelys approached the dragons with a mixture of reverence and excitement. Vermithor's eyes followed her with a keen, knowing gaze, while Silverwing raised her head, letting out a soft, welcoming rumble.
"Vermithor, Silverwing," Aelys said, her voice filled with affection. "It's wonderful to see you both."
She extended her hand, and Vermithor lowered his head slightly, allowing her to stroke his scales. His touch was warm and reassuring, a reminder of the bond that existed between the Targaryens and their dragons.
Silverwing, ever gentle, nuzzled Aelys with a soft, silver-scaled snout. Her touch was tender, and Aelys could feel the dragon's calming presence enveloping her.
"It's been too long since I've seen you," Aelys continued, her voice soft. "I've been busy with my own hatchlings, and it's been quite the journey to ensure they're growing strong and healthy."
Vermithor let out a low, rumbling growl, as if acknowledging Aelys' words and the challenges she faced. Silverwing's gentle purrs seemed to convey her support and encouragement.
The attendant stepped back, giving Aelys space to reconnect with the dragons. Aelys took a moment to sit beside Silverwing, her eyes drifting to the massive dragon's regal form. She could see the similarities and differences between her dragons and these elder creatures, a testament to the continuity of the Targaryen legacy.
"I've learned so much from them," Aelys said, more to herself than to anyone else. "But there's still so much to understand. I want to ensure they grow up strong and free, just as you both did."
Vermithor's eyes glinted with a knowing light, and Silverwing's gentle purring seemed to echo Aelys' sentiments. The bond between them was palpable, a silent understanding that transcended words.
Aelys sat quietly with the dragons for a while, enjoying the peaceful connection. The chamber was filled with the soft sounds of the dragons' breathing and the occasional crackle of the volcanic hearths. It was a moment of tranquility amidst the whirlwind of her responsibilities. Aelys stood in the grand chamber of Dragonstone, her gaze fixed on Silverwing, who was nestled comfortably atop her bed of black stones. The golden light of the setting sun cast a warm glow over the room, and the shadows danced gently on the walls. As Aelys prepared to take her leave, she noticed something that had previously escaped her attention.
Silverwing shifted slightly, revealing a hidden corner beneath her massive form. There, partially obscured by the dragon's tail, lay a clutch of five eggs. They were nestled in a bed of soft, volcanic sand and stones, each egg a different shade of silver and gray, reflecting the soft light of the chamber with an ethereal glow.
Aelys's heart skipped a beat as she approached the eggs. She crouched down, her fingers lightly brushing the surface of the eggs. Each one was unique: some were speckled with dark flecks, while others had smooth, lustrous shells. Silverwing's protective posture and the warm glow from the eggs indicated that they were recently laid and still in need of careful protection.
This egg was a pale, soft silver with a smooth, lustrous surface. It had a subtle sheen that caught the light with a gentle, almost ethereal glow. The egg's color was consistent and even, giving it an appearance of delicate elegance. Its surface felt cool to the touch, and the egg seemed to exude a calm, tranquil energy.
The second egg was a muted gray with a faint, iridescent quality that gave it a mystical allure. The egg's surface was slightly textured with fine, crisscrossed patterns that shimmered subtly in the light. The iridescence created a soft, changing hue, giving the impression that the egg had layers of hidden depth.
The third egg was a deep, dark charcoal with a velvety texture. Its surface was nearly matte, absorbing light rather than reflecting it. The egg had a few dark, uneven spots scattered across it, adding a sense of ruggedness. The color suggested a dragon with a mysterious, enigmatic nature.
This egg was a warm, bronze hue with a rich, almost molten quality. The surface had a slightly dappled appearance, with small dark flecks and spots that resembled embers or cooled lava. The egg's color conveyed a sense of hidden warmth and energy, hinting at a dragon with a fiery temperament.
The final egg was a deep, rich blue, almost resembling the night sky. Its surface was smooth, with a few delicate, silvery flecks scattered across it like stars. The blue was vibrant yet deep, giving the impression of both strength and serenity. The flecks created a subtle twinkling effect, adding to the egg's captivating , as the sun began to set and the room was bathed in a warm, amber light, Aelys stood up, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. She took a final, lingering look at Vermithor and Silverwing.
"Silverwing," Aelys said softly, looking up at the dragon. "I didn't realize you had laid these. They're beautiful."
Silverwing's large, silver eyes met Aelys's, and the dragon let out a soft, comforting purr. The dragon's gaze seemed to convey a mixture of pride and concern, as if sensing Aelys's inner turmoil.
As Aelys observed the eggs, she felt a pang of excitement and anxiety. The thought of raising five more dragon hatchlings was thrilling, but it also presented a dilemma. Could she take the eggs back to King's Landing without drawing attention? The idea of secretly hatching them and then returning them to Dragonstone seemed both enticing and perilous.
Aelys paced the chamber, her thoughts a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. Finally, she stopped, looking back at the eggs with a determined expression.
"I need to make a decision," she muttered to herself. "If I can find a way to keep them safe and hidden, it might be worth the risk."
She turned back to Silverwing, who was watching her intently. The dragon's serene presence provided a reassuring counterbalance to Aelys's anxiety.
"I'll need to be careful," Aelys said, more to herself than to Silverwing. "I'll have to make sure that no one suspects anything. If I can find a way to keep them secure, then it could be worth it."
Silverwing let out a low, encouraging growl, as if affirming Aelys's decision. Aelys took a deep breath, her resolve hardening.
"Alright," she said, her voice filled with determination. "I'll do it. I'll take the eggs to King's Landing, hatch them in secret, and return them before anyone notices. It's a risk, but it's one I'm willing to take."
With a renewed sense of purpose, Aelys prepared to leave the chamber. She carefully noted the location of the eggs and ensured they were secure. She knew that the journey ahead would require careful planning and discretion, but the chance to nurture these new lives was too precious to ignore.
Aelys mounted Morghul once more, her mind focused on the task ahead. She would need to find a secure location, perhaps a hidden chamber or a concealed room, where the eggs could be safely incubated until they hatched. She gently put the large eggs in her large sack to keep them safe from view. Aelys checked her gear, ensuring everything was secured for the journey back to King's Landing. Morghul's wings rustled with anticipation, and the powerful dragon stood poised for their departure.
Suddenly, Morghul's keen eyes caught sight of a disturbance near the bridge leading to Dragonstone Castle. The dragon let out a low, concerned rumble, drawing Aelys's attention. She followed his gaze and saw Caraxes, Daemon Targaryen's formidable dragon, looming near the bridge. The dragon's presence was accompanied by a tense, charged atmosphere.
Aelys's heart raced as she and Morghul took flight, swooping down toward the scene to investigate. As they approached, the silhouettes of two figures came into view—Daemon Targaryen and Otto Hightower. Daemon's expression was one of defiance, while Otto's demeanor was stern and calculating.
Morghul landed gracefully near the bridge, and Aelys dismounted, her gaze immediately locking onto the object clutched in Daemon's hands. It was a dragon egg—the very one intended for Prince Baelor's cradle had he lived. The sight of the egg ignited a flare of anger within her.
Daemon's eyes widened slightly as Aelys approached, his defiant expression shifting to one of surprise. Otto Hightower, standing beside Daemon, looked equally taken aback, his brow furrowing in confusion and concern.
"Daemon!" Aelys's voice rang out, filled with a mixture of outrage and urgency. "What are you doing with that egg?"
Daemon looked up, meeting Aelys's furious gaze with a cold, calculating stare. "Aelys, what are you doing here?"
Aelys's eyes narrowed as she advanced toward Daemon, her anger palpable. "That egg belongs to the royal family, not to you. It was meant for Prince Baelor. Why do you have it?"
Daemon's grip on the egg tightened. "It's not your concern, Aelys. This egg has its own fate, and it's not bound by your family's rules."
Aelys's cheeks flushed with anger. "It is my concern! That egg was a symbol of hope for my family. It's not yours to take or to decide its fate."
As Aelys stepped closer, Morghul hovered overhead, his large wings casting a shadow over the scene. The dragon's low growl added an intimidating undertone to the confrontation.
Otto Hightower, sensing the rising tension, took a step forward, trying to defuse the situation. "Aelys, perhaps we should all calm down and discuss this matter rationally."
Aelys's gaze remained locked on Daemon, her resolve unwavering. "No, Otto. This isn't a matter for discussion. Daemon, give back the egg. It does not belong to you."
Daemon's expression hardened, and he took a step back, his posture defensive. "And if I refuse?"
Aelys took a deep breath, her eyes blazing with determination. "Then I will take it by force if necessary. This is a matter of honor and duty."
Morghul landed next to Aelys, his massive form adding to the weight of her presence. The dragon's protective stance conveyed that Aelys was not alone in this confrontation.
Daemon's eyes flickered with a mix of defiance and hesitation. After a tense moment, he reluctantly extended the egg toward Aelys. "Fine. Take it. But know that this is far from over."
Aelys's fingers closed around the egg, her anger giving way to a deep sense of relief. She nodded curtly, not trusting herself to speak further. "Thank you," she said, her voice clipped. With the egg securely in her possession, Aelys turned away from Daemon and Otto, her focus shifting to Morghul. She mounted the dragon with a sense of urgency, her mind racing with thoughts of returning to the safety of Dragonstone and protecting the future of the egg and the eggs of her grandfathers' dragon and his mate. Now that made six eggs she had to keep from view and hatch and get back to Dragonstone without someone noticing, but this would start to arose questions.
Rhaenyra was on the balcony watching her father walking with the twelve-year-old Laena Velaryon. She was told that Lord Corlys offered his daughter to marry. Rhaenyra was troubled by this, but as Leah pointed out, her father was expected to remarry sooner or later to produce more heirs for the thrones, even if she is first in line. However, Lady Laena was twelve years old, and her father was in his thirties, which makes the marriage unsettling. She then started to walk from the balcony and passed by princess Rhaenys who was sitting on a bench beside a doorway.
"It bothers you, does it not?" Rhaenys asked.
"My father is a king," Rhaenyra replied, "It is his duty to take another wife and strengthen his line."
"I did not ask you a lesson in politics," Rhaenys quipped, "I asked if this bothers you."
"Laena is your daughter princess; does it bother you?" Rhaenyra shot back.
Rhaenys looked down and then back to Rhaenyra, "Of course it does. But I understand the order of things. I'm not sure you do."
Rhaenyra then began to look away from the older princess, "If you seek to elicit some anger from me, you should know that you're failing princess."
"Quite the opposite." Rhaenys answered. "Whether it to my daughter or someone else, your father will remarry sooner than late. His new wife will produce new heirs, and chances are better than not that one of those will be male. And when that boy comes of age and your father has passed, the men of the realm will except him to be heir not you. Because that is the order of things." She finishes while looking at Rhaenyra.
"When I'm Queen, I will create a new order." Rhaenyra proclaimed.
"How I wish that could be Rhaenyra," Rhaenys sighed dismissively, "But the men of the realm already had their opportunity to appoint a ruling queen at the Great council and they denied it."
"They denied you, Princess Rhaenys, The Queen Who Never Was" Rhaenyra reminded, "but they bent the knee to me and called me heir to the thrones."
"Do you remind your father's men of that as you carry their cups?" Rhaenys shot back causing Rhaenyra to go silent.
Rhaenys then walked to the balcony and said, "Here is the hard truth, which no one else has the heart to tell you. Men would sooner put the realm to the torch, then see a woman ascend the Iron Throne." She then looks at Rhaenyra who was looking back intently, "And your father is no fool." She finishes as she walks away, leaving Rhaenyra to consume her words.
The evening sun cast long shadows over King's Landing as Aelys arrived back at the Red Keep. The bustling city seemed a world apart from the tension and urgency she had experienced on Dragonstone. Morghul landed gracefully in the courtyard, and Aelys dismounted, feeling the weight of her recent encounters settling on her shoulders.
As she made her way through the corridors, Aelys's thoughts were consumed by the day's events and the egg she had safeguarded. She was greeted by the servants and led to the throne room, where Viserys awaited her arrival.
The massive wooden doors of the throne room swung open, and Aelys stepped inside, her gaze meeting her father's concerned eyes. Viserys, seated upon the Iron Throne, looked both regal and troubled. He gestured for Aelys to approach, his expression a mix of curiosity and apprehension.
"Aelys," Viserys began, his voice carrying an edge of authority. "I heard you were on Dragonstone. What brought you there?"
Aelys bowed her head slightly in respect before meeting his gaze. "I went to visit my grandfather's dragon, Vermithor, and his mate, Silverwing. I wanted to see them for myself and ensure they were well. While I was there, I encountered Daemon. He was holding an egg that was meant for Prince Baelor. I intervened to prevent him from using it as a bargaining chip."
Viserys's eyes widened with concern. "And where is the egg now?"
Aelys's hand instinctively rested on the small pouch at her side, where the egg was securely nestled. "I'm keeping it close to me for now. It's a small reminder of my brother and what could have been. It is safer with me."
Viserys studied his daughter's face, noting the firmness in her expression. After a moment of contemplation, he rose from the Iron Throne and beckoned her to follow. "There is something I want to show you, something even Rhaenyra does not know about."
Aelys followed Viserys through the winding corridors of the Red Keep. Her curiosity grew with each turn, the anticipation adding a sense of gravity to the moment. They descended into the deeper levels of the castle, moving through hidden passages that seemed to whisper secrets of the past.
Eventually, they arrived at a concealed doorway, partially hidden behind a heavy tapestry. Viserys produced a key and unlocked the door, revealing a dimly lit chamber beyond. The air was cool and musty, carrying the scent of ancient stone and old memories.
As they entered, the chamber opened up to reveal a large, ancient dragon lying in a deep, peaceful slumber. The dragon's scales were a mottled mix of gray and silver, and its eyes were closed in a serene repose. The creature's age was evident from the subtle creases in its scales and the grandeur of its form.
Aelys gasped softly, her eyes widening in awe. "This dragon… it's magnificent. Whose is it?"
Viserys looked at his daughter with a gentle smile. "This is the dragon that belonged to your mother, Aelys. She was born in the Year 12 AC, making this dragon a century old. It was her companion and one of her greatest loves."
Aelys approached the dragon, her hand reaching out tentatively to touch its ancient scales. "I never knew. It's beautiful."
Viserys nodded. "Your mother's dragon was named Valyra. She was a noble and loyal companion, much like your own dragons. I wanted you to see her because I thought you should know about the legacy of our family's bond with dragons."
Aelys's gaze softened as she took in the sight of the old dragon. "Thank you for showing me, Father. It means a lot to understand more about our family's history and the connection we have with our dragons."
Viserys placed a reassuring hand on Aelys's shoulder. "You carry that legacy with you, Aelys. And it is up to you to honor and protect it. Remember that."
Aelys nodded, her heart filled with a sense of pride and purpose. She took one last look at Valyra, feeling a deeper connection to her mother and the history that bound them all together. As they left the chamber and returned to the surface, Aelys felt a renewed sense of resolve, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.