111 AC
In the safety of her chambers, Rhaenyra let out a giggle, startling the maids who tended to her.
The Princess was seated at her vanity, having rid herself of her riding clothing, and was now admiring her newly gifted pearls, which adorned her neck. She had paired them with a most intricate dark purple dress, which matched the colour of her eyes.
"You look most beautiful, Princess.", her quite young lady in waiting, Elinda Massey, remarked with a smile, all the while looking through her many other dresses.
"The new pearls are responsible." Rhaenyra replied, giggling once more as she thought about what had transpired earlier that day.
Early in the morrow, her uncle had convinced her to race all the way to Dragonstone, and back again, before the King were to ever discover them gone.
Mounting her lady Syrax, Rhaenyra, as the youngest dragonrider which had ever lived, proved to be more than a challenge for the experienced Rogue Prince, Daemon Targaryen, and his Blood Wyrm, Caraxes.
Whereas Caraxes was a well experienced battle dragon, the spoiled Syrax proved to be faster. To her uncle's displeasure, Rhaenyra and her yellow lady, managed to beat them in record time.
Daemon had more than expressed his displeasure and had stormed off, which surprisingly, did not upset Rhaenyra at all. She was quite amused, knowing that soon or late, her uncle would be at her door, and he would once again, attempt to find ways to be in her company. It had been this way ever since he had returned victorious from the Stepstones.
Rhaenyra smiled to herself as she remembered the look on the crone's face when she saw the Blood Wyrm descend during what was meant to be a tourney in her and the King's honour, for five years having passed since they married. The greatest mistake of her father's life, as far as Rhaenyra was concerned.
"What is that?" Elinda suddenly asked, pulling Princess Rhaenyra away from her thoughts, as quite loud voices were heard from outside her doors.
Rhaenyra instantly recognized them to be that of her sworn shield, Ser Criston Cole, and the other belonged to her beloved uncle, Prince Daemon Targaryen.
The voices were harsh, yet not as loud as expected under the circumstances.
Picking up her skirts, Rhaenyra let her curls fall freely, as she hastened to the doors, intent on hearing what was being said.
Outside the chambers, the two men were not even attempting to hide their contempt for one another, especially after what had happened during previous tourneys when they had duelled.
"The Princess is not accepting visitors at this time." Ser Criston snapped.
"My niece is very well expecting me. I suggest you remove yourself from my presence, Cole, else I shall be forced to teach you the true art of sparring."
"Mayhaps my prince remembers that I bested him more than once not too long ago." Cole replied, his green eyes blazing with fury.
"Tourneys are not wars! Posing as my brother's dog for so long has certainly affected your judgement." Daemon snapped, and then added with a smirk, "As to the Princess, tell me…do you lust for her? Is that what inspires such…let's call it…devotion?"
Cole's back instantly straightened, as he exclaimed, "I insist that you leave!"
Daemon's eyes darkened, his smirk gone, as he stepped closer to the man, sneering, "You are not in a position to order me. And should you continue to do so, I shall have to share my grievances with the King. Surely, he would not be too pleased to hear that you are taking advantage of your position to try to seduce my poor niece."
The Rogue Prince watched with satisfaction as the colour drained from Cole's face. In a more than nervous state, he started spluttering, "I do not…" but the doors to the chambers opened before he could defend himself properly.
Princess Rhaenyra made herself known, with a small gasp of feigned surprise at seeing Daemon there, his hand gripping Dark Sister, as he watched her sworn shield menacingly.
"Uncle! Whatever are you doing here?"
Daemon instantly moved his eyes towards her, and his demeanour changed at the sight of her.
"I am to escort you to the Great Hall for the feast, or have you forgotten, sweet niece?"
Rhaenyra's eyes moved towards Daemon's other hand, noticing a small pouch, wrapped in rich velvet, and she could hardly contain her excitement, knowing her uncle had come bearing gifts once more. Mayhaps an apology for his rudeness in the Dragonpit.
"Princess, I was attempting to explain to him that…" Ser Criston suddenly found himself in need to join the conversation, but Rhaenyra stopped him.
"It is quite alright, Ser Criston. I have indeed been expecting my uncle."
She then turned to Daemon, a mischievous glint in her purple eyes, her hands clasped behind her back, and said, "I insist that you enter. I have yet to finish preparing and I may require your assistance."
Joining in on the fun, much to Ser Criston's displeasure, Daemon smirked and replied, "I do not intend to deprive you of aid, my sweet."
Without another word, Rhaenyra returned to her chambers, and Daemon followed close behind, but not before throwing a grin in amusement at Criston Cole's annoyance. The dog had no choice but to comply and respect the Princess' wishes.
As soon as she returned to her chambers, Rhaenyra dismissed Elinda and her maids, wishing to be alone with Daemon, curious to see what he had brought her this time.
Once they were alone, Rhaenyra turned to Daemon.
"I did not think to see you so soon after what has come to pass this morrow. Has my win upset you so, uncle?"
"I am not accustomed to losing. And to do so on my name day was quite cruel of yourself, niece." Daemon told her, pacing around the room, almost in a predatory fashion, as he examined her silks, her jewels, and everything else about her chambers.
"It is my lady, Syrax, whom you must chastise then. It is not any fault of mine that she has become such a splendid ride." Rhaenyra argued, watching as he began walking in circles around her…inspecting her even.
"I shall leave the matter to Caraxes." Daemon told her, putting an end to that subject.
Stopping in front of her, Daemon's grip on the small pouch tightened and the gesture did not go unnoticed by the Princess. She knew that he had done so on purpose, eager to increase her curiosity.
"It was nice of my father to throw a feast for your thirtieth name day." Rhaenyra found herself saying, a genuine smile on her face.
Daemon scoffed and rolled his eyes. "Yes, yes…leave it to Viserys to boast about another name day having passed me, whilst he chains me to the Bronze Bitch and denies me heirs of my own."
Rhaenyra did not care to contradict him. She herself was most cross with her father in this matter, and with the Lady Rhea Royce herself. What possible motive would there be to prolong such an unwanted and unfruitful union?
Surely the Lady Royce would have preferred to be married to a man who can provide her with children, or at the very least desire to be in her presence. With Daemon, such was not the case. So why was she insistent to keeping him as her husband? Rhaenyra figured it was most likely out of spite. Rhea Royce was a most horrid and spiteful woman indeed.
Looking once more towards the pouch, Rhaenyra's eyes gleamed as she stepped forward and raised her head up to meet his gaze.
"Is that for me?" she asked as softly and sweetly as possible, all the while batting her eyelashes, in an attempt to appear seductive.
Daemon raised an eyebrow, another grin stretched on his face.
"For a niece who brought insults on my name day? I'm afraid not."
Rhaenyra noted his teasing tone, and boldly reached for it, but Daemon was quick and held it high above his head.
"Let me see!" she insisted, a pout forming on her lips.
Letting out a tsk, Daemon chastised, "Spoiled, as always.", before opening the pouch and revealing its contents.
The Realm's Delight let out a gasp of delight, when Daemon pulled out the glorious object.
It was a jade tiara.
"The merchant swears that it had once belonged to the Empress of Leng. Dark Sister's blade ensured his sincerity."
"It is beautiful." The Princess whispered, her eyes widening, as she touched the stones.
She immediately turned around, facing the vanity, and looked to him expectantly, through the mirror.
Daemon let loose a chuckle, as he stepped closer to her, touching her soft curls. Indulging her, the Rogue Prince placed the tiara on top of her head.
"Thank you." Rhaenyra found herself whispering.
It was not oft that she expressed gratitude. But this gift surpassed all expectations.
As if reading her mind, Daemon told her firmly, "'Tis not a gift, Rhaenyra."
She gazed at him through the mirror, watching as he pushed the curls of her hair aside, exposing her neck.
Her breathing hitched at the feel of his rather rough fingers tracing patterns from the back of her neck to her exposed shoulder.
Shivering visibly, Rhaenyra's voice trembled as she asked, "What do you mean?"
"I require payment." Daemon replied, matter-of-factly, devoid of any emotion in his voice, but the way his eyes darkened as they met hers in the mirror, revealed his obvious desire for her.
"Daemon…"
The sound of his own name from her lips seemed to spur him on, as he placed his hands on her waist to keep her in place. Her own hands joined his, feeling his body even closer. Then, he leaned forward, his lips brushing her skin lightly.
"Your kiss shall suffice." He whispered, his fingers gripping her even tighter, pulling her back so as she could be pressed against him.
"Kiss?" Rhaenyra mumbled, shaken by the sudden intimacy...but it was not an unwelcome one.
They had been dancing around this moment for long now. Rhaenyra had felt their connection strengthen ever since he returned from the Stepstones and had first regarded her in awe at that tourney. She had hoped even then…that he would be hers.
She believed it will all her heart that they were meant for one another. And neither her father, nor the Lady Royce shall stand in their way.
"I wish to feel the lips of the Realm's Delight…of the most beautiful maiden in all the Seven Kingdoms." Daemon continued, after which he pressed his lips to her throat, right above the gifted pearls.
Rhaenyra closed her eyes, her mouth parting with a gasp.
She felt his lips closer to her ear, as he whispered, "Grant me my payment, Rhaenyra."
Completely breathless, Rhaenyra could offer only a nod in compliance, as her heart quickened.
Turning her around, Daemon covered her lips with his and pushed his tongue into her mouth. Whereas she had expected a sweet, chase kiss for her first, Daemon had other ideas.
As experienced as he was in such matters, he took charge, keeping her head in place, his tongue parting her lips, his lips moving over hers and testing her skills, all the while she was basking in his warmth.
Feeling bold due to his obvious desire for her, Rhaenyra cupped his cheeks, and pressed him even closer, doing her best to keep up with his ministrations.
When he finally pulled away from her, she took in deep breaths, noting the satisfied expression on his face. "You are ravishing, my sweet. The Realm's Delight indeed."
…
145 AC
"Prince Viserys, my Princess!" Ser Dennis Whitfield of the Kingsguard announced.
Visenya's ladies all looked at one another, knowing what this meant. The Princess always insisted that she be left alone whenever Viserys came to visit her.
Clapping her hands together, the overly bold Prudence Celtigar motioned for the others to follow her outside the chambers.
Viserys made his way inside, back straightened with confidence as always. In his hands was a very intriguing pouch, which certainly stirred Visenya's interest.
"Brother." Visenya greeted him, but did not move from the vanity.
She continued to look through her jewels, which forced Viserys to approach her himself.
"Sister." he responded, with the usual teasing tone, as he watched her adorn her neck with the finest pearls from her collection.
"Is there a reason for your visit?"
Furrowing his eyebrows, Viserys came closer until he was standing right behind her, their eyes locking in the reflection of the mirror.
"Must I require a reason to visit you?" he asked, sincerity in his voice.
"I suppose not. However, your visits were most frequent when in dealing with our mother's recognition as Queen. The matter is quite finished now, so…" Visenya told him, leaving a possibility for him to offer an explanation.
Placing the pouch on the vanity in front of her, Viserys said, "I have something for you."
Visenya instantly reached for the item inside, her curiosity knowing no bounds. Viserys had to bite the inside of his cheek to keep from laughing at her spoiled nature. Whenever it came to gifts, Visenya was most eager to receive them.
As desperate as she was to see what was inside, Visenya's fingers were delicate, pulling out the object with care.
"This is…this is…'tis absolutely beautiful!" Visenya exclaimed with a gasp, never having seen something quite like this.
"Jade tiara. Belonged to the Empress of Leng…and later on, it belonged to our mother."
Viserys revealed, knowing that this information would please her even more greatly.
Turning around in her chair, Visenya looked up in awe at him, her hands still on the tiara.
"Our mother? Viserys, where did you ever find this?"
"Elinda had kept it in a chest here for years. She wished to give it to you as a wedding gift for when the time came for you to be wed. Knowing that you are to be a married woman in three years' time, she figured that this would be the best moment."
At the mention of her impending marriage, Visenya's eyes hardened.
"Oh…then I cannot accept this." she stated, standing up and handing the tiara back to him.
"Do not jest, Visenya. It belonged to our mother and now, it is yours."
"If it is a wedding gift, then I shall not require it because there shall be no wedding." Visenya explained, her looks suggestive, as she pressed the tiara in his hands.
Viserys said nothing, as he continued to eye her with annoyance.
"Am I wrong, brother?" she insisted.
Suddenly, Viserys forcefully grabbed her hand, turning her around and pressing himself against her back. Visenya yelped at the closeness between them, and before she could react, she looked in the mirror and watched how he placed the jade tiara on her head.
He took care to arrange her hair, so as the tiara would be well in place.
When finished, he placed both of his hands on her shoulders.
"While it is beautiful…I intend to keep it for myself."
"You will not wear it?"
"Not in front of the Court. I do not wish for our enemies to soil it with their foul tongues when it comes to my mother."
"Visenya…"
"It is quite alright, brother. I shall enjoy it alone. Or mayhaps with the rest of my ladies."
"As you wish." Viserys eventually said, which only made Visenya smile. She enjoyed having him please her so.
Thinking to use the subject to her advantage, Visenya moved closer to him.
"This chest you speak of…" she trailed off, biting her lip, as Viserys gazed at her curiously.
Tracing his Hand pin with the tips of her fingers, she batted her eyelashes, and asked softly, "Has Elinda kept anything else that belonged to our mother? A certain journal, mayhaps?"
Viserys sighed and rolled his eyes at the lack of subtlety.
"There is no prophesy, Visenya. There is no journal."
"You cannot know that! Mother said…"
"Mother was frightened. She was angry. She had suffered loss and as such, she was terribly confused." Viserys reasoned, but this only managed to infuriate his sister.
Taking off her tiara angrily, Visenya poked his chest with her finger and hissed, "You think to know everything! Well, you don't! And yes, Mother told Aegon about the prophesy and you were not there to learn of it. Yes, she died thinking that you were already gone. You need to move past this, Viserys. It is not always about you! That prophesy is important and we must make haste and find the Conqueror's words. Mother would have wanted us to!"
Viserys raised an eyebrow at her outburst, but instantly changed the topic of discussion.
"I am to attend a Small Council meeting, so I best be going."
He took the hand that had been poking him and rubbed it as he oft did whenever he was attempting to calm the fire burning inside her.
Visenya despised the effect he had on her whenever he was gentle and caring.
Letting out a defeated sigh, she leaned into the touch, focusing on the way his fingers moved as she asked, "Oh? Anything I should know?"
"Alyn is going to be reinstated as Lord Admiral and Master of Ships." Viserys explained and smirked as he noticed her eyes light up, as they met his own.
"And Ser Gedmund Peake?"
"Removed."
He felt his stomach flip when he noticed her smile. He was willing to say anything just to be given the single privilege of seeing her smile.
"Do try to hide your enthusiasm, sister. We do not need further trouble." he told her, and couldn't help but grin when she giggled.
Finally removing her hand from his, Visenya moved back to the vanity in order to place her tiara in one of the larger jewel chests. Viserys looked on, as he was already missing her touch.
With her back turned, Visenya informed him, "Oh, very well. I shall not say a word. I am to prepare as well, for I will shortly be seeing Lord Tyrell in the Godswood."
Frowning, Viserys immediately questioned her, "What do you mean?"
Turning around, Visenya tried to hide her satisfaction when noting the annoyance in his voice.
"I am betrothed, and yet I have barely spoken with my soon to be husband. Shouldn't some courting be involved?" she asked, quite innocently.
"Do not play games, Visenya." he warned her, his face quite serious, but the mischievousness in the young princess' eyes told him that she was not done.
Strutting forward, Visenya placed both hands on his chest, looking up with her best seductive look.
"But whatever do you mean? What games? Am I not betrothed? Should I not attempt to know my future husband?"
"Ao gīmigon sȳrī bona ao issi daor naejot sagon dīnagon." You know well that you are not to be married.
"Gaomagon nyke?" Do I?
Gripping her chin, Viserys let his thumb trail down her bottom lip, bringing her even closer.
"Kessa." he whispered, only a breath away from her lips.
"Skoro syt daor? Gaomagon ao jaelagon naejot pilogon issa, Viserys?" Why not? Do you wish to own me, Viserys?
Her smile dropped at hearing the words which instinctively came out of her mouth. She did hope that Viserys would not read much into it.
However, his eyes visibly darkened, and darted towards her mouth, making her heart flutter.
He leaned in even more and their noses rubbed against one another. Their eyes were now closed, and they were eager to take in each other's scent.
She hoped this would be the moment…with all her heart, she hoped he would be her first kiss. She placed her hands on his wrists and held onto his touch. If this were to happen…if she would allow it…she would be free of the unwanted betrothal, and she would get what she always wanted. Him.
But it seemed he was unwilling to allow it. Pulling back as though naught had come to pass, Viserys managed to look her in the eyes and say, "I must take my leave. I wish you well, sister."
Before she could any anything more, Viserys had already walked past her and out the doors of the chambers.
…
Prudence Celtigar was leading the way in the halls, the rest of the ladies following close behind her.
"I do not believe that we should have left the Princess alone." Little Jeyne eventually said, hurrying along, as her hands held onto her blue skirts.
Frowning, Prudence turned her head in her direction and asked, "With her own brother? Why not?"
"Well, she is betrothed to Lord Tyrell. It would not be proper for her to be unaccompanied in the presence of another man." Little Jeyne explained, earning a nod of approval from the much older Lady Elinor.
Elinor, having been the subject of gossip at Court for the loss of her own maidenhead, understood perfectly well what it meant to have a young lady's reputation tarnished. She could only imagine what it meant for that to happen to a princess. Visenya was, after all, a reflection of the Crown.
"Oh, do not be ridiculous, Little Jeyne. Princess Visenya is allowed to be in the company of her own family. We Valyrians are known to be rather close to one another, and we are not to keep our distance just to avoid speculation." Prudence insisted, though she was certain that there was definitely something happening between the Lord Hand and the Princess Visenya.
Truth be told, the young Lady Celtigar did hope that the Princess would secure a love match for herself. As passionate, beautiful and witty as she was, she deserved nothing less. And although she herself had not met him in person, Prudence heard that Lyonel Tyrell was a rather green boy. He most definitely lacked experience when it came to courting ladies, and at six and ten years of age, was just learning how to manage his household after his mother had passed.
The halls of the Red Keep were rather quiet, seeing as how most of the representatives of the Houses which had arrived solely for the official recognition of Rhaenyra Targaryen as Queen of the Seven Kingdoms, had already departed. Most unfortunately, the ones who had chosen to remain belonged to the most unpleasant of Houses, such as Lannister, Peake, Hightower and Redwyne.
Sarra Stark, at only two and ten years of age and the youngest of the ladies, was most nervous to be apart from her family for the first time. The Starks were needed to return to Winterfell, seeing as how Sarra's elder half-brother, Rickon, was already to be wed. He had chosen Lady Jeyne Manderly, and the blessing of his father, the Lord of Winterfell, was required.
Although Black Aly did her best to encourage her, the young Lady Stark was not quite accustomed to the rather hot climate of the South, nor with the rules imposed inside the Red Keep.
The septas who passed the ladies in the halls frowned and immediately began whispering amongst one another when noting the breeches that Sarra Stark preferred to wear. But Sarra cared not for their talk, and she even gave them a menacing glare in return.
Chuckling for having witnessed the scene, Prudence told her, "You are going to have to wear dresses eventually."
"Lady Baela Targaryen does not care to." Sarra replied, with clear admiration for the lady.
"She is the King's sister. And even she does her best to follow the rules of propriety. I have seen her wear countless dresses here."
As Prudence and Sarra continued their debate, Little Jeyne remained with her thoughts, wondering how she is to prepare for her future role as Lady of the Eyrie, since her father had left her in the Red Keep and returned to the Vale as well. There was much to be discussed…including marriage prospects.
So much worry occupied her mind, that she did not hear Elinor's warning. Not long after, Little Jeyne managed to run into someone taller than herself.
"Oh, pardon me!" she exclaimed quickly, her face downcast in shame at what had transpired.
Her eyes however widened, when she noticed the rich blue embroidery of the man's robes.
He had grabbed onto her own arms to keep her from falling.
Looking up slowly, Little Jeyne noticed the pinned golden falcon and instantly realized who it was. The Master of Coin himself.
"Do not worry yourself, Lady Jeyne. It is entirely my fault. I should have known better than to keep my head in these books whilst in the halls, though I certainly did not expect to run into so many ladies wandering the halls." Isembard Arryn insisted, inspecting her so as to ensure that she was alright.
Little Jeyne's eyes widened even more when she heard the word 'lady' pass his lips and not 'little'. Most preferred to call her Little Jeyne so as to differentiate her from her namesake, the Maiden of the Vale. Isembard was the first to address her using the proper title.
"I'm afraid I was also lost in my own thoughts. It was careless of me, so I apologize." she managed to whisper.
"I did promise your father to look after you, though I had been much occupied with handling the Crown's finances. I do hope you are faring well here in the capital."
"I enjoy it very much, actually. I already consider the Princess Visenya a very dear friend." Little Jeyne told him with a smile.
Prudence, Sarra and Elinor remained far in the back, quietly inspecting the two.
"That is good to hear." Isembard matched her smile for only a moment, before his expression turned stern.
"I'm afraid I must be going. There is a Council meeting to start soon, and my presence is required. I bid you good day, ladies." he told them rather quickly, and proceeded to walk fast in the other direction, before Little Jeyne could respond.
It was well known around Court how invested Isembard Arryn was in his work for the Crown. Mayhaps still reeling from his failed attempt at becoming the Defender of the Vale after the rebellion, he intended to prove his worth.
Soon after, the ladies continued on their tour of the Red Keep.
"The Gilded Falcon. Quite dashing. Don't you think so, Little Jeyne?" Prudence claimed, with a knowing smirk.
Little Jeyne chose not to respond, keeping her focus on the floor, as Prudence continued.
"Charming, good at finances, has the King's trust, an estate of his own in Gulltown, incredibly wealthy and yet, still unwed at thirty years of age. It's tragic really."
"Mayhaps he has not found the right woman." Little Jeyne found herself saying, though she did not understand what prompted her to say such a thing. What would she know of Isembard Arryn's preferences in terms of a suitable wife?
"Mayhaps not." Prudence remarked slowly, as she watched Little Jeyne turn her head in the direction the Gilded Falcon had gone.
…
"By the Gods, Baela, there is naught I can do about it! The matter is finished!"
"Indeed, it is! As are our beddings! Though I am certain you will not even know the difference, seeing as how you have kept away from fulfilling such duties for years now!"
"You are my wife and I will not stand for it!"
"Ha! I do hope you're jesting. Your wife?! You have failed to uphold our marriage vows. Should I present my case to the High Septon, he is to surely grant me an annulment."
Alyn let loose a laugh. "Now I know you're the one who jests. You do know how many lords are unfaithful to their lady wives, do you not? I do not believe I have heard of annulments being granted to dissatisfied ladies."
"Exceptions can be made for a Targaryen, and daughter of the Rogue Prince!"
"You would not dare do so! You would be destroying Laena's future."
"Laena is the only reason that I remain in this farce of a marriage, I assure you. For I am tired of you, of your deceit and your lack of respect!"
"I have granted you everything you desired in Driftmark! You have had your way for years!"
"I also desired to have a faithful husband. I believe I deserve such devotion. Hence why I disregarded the initially prepared match, defied the Council and married you! I risked my entire reputation for a man whom I hoped loved me!"
"I do!"
Laena had been strolling the halls of the Red Keep, making certain to reveal to the Court her new lilac-colored dress, which Princess Visenya had gifted her. The one with the long sleeves, so as to conceal the missing chunk in her arm. As expected, the dress turned out to be far too large for her, and her appearance was criticized by almost every lady present, especially since she had Monkey on her shoulder.
On her way back to her parents' quarters, she heard them arguing, which was not uncommon. However, it was the first time that Laena was intent to hear what was being discussed from a secluded spot. She could only hope that Monkey would not make any noise so as to reveal her.
The shouting continued, and it only served to draw tears in Laena's eyes.
A moment after, Baela's voice softened, as she paced around the room, her hands on her hips.
"We were happy, Alyn. I am certainly not mistaken in this regard. You wanted me. You desired me. I remember even during the war when I was betrothed to Jace, you looked my way. You had such spirit…a desire to prove yourself. Even after your brother managed to claim a dragon and you hadn't, you were determined to show you are not meant to be a bastard."
Alyn did not contradict her, and added, "I was never meant to be a dragonrider. I was meant for the sea, as my…"
In that moment, he paused. Surely, he was talking about Corlys. But what had he been to him? Father or grandsire?
Taking a deep breath, Alyn moved towards his wife, attempting to console her.
"Baela…"
"Not another word from you!"
"I have apologized plenty. What more must I do? I was young. Many men are unable to resist temptation. Should we be punished for the rest of our lives? I have not shown constant unfaithfulness! I could have taken as many mistresses as I desired, but I have not!"
"Do not think me a fool, Alyn. You did not make such a decision for love of me. You did it because you knew perfectly well that it suits you to have a devoted and influential wife such as myself by your side, supporting your rule of Driftmark."
"You said it yourself. I have longed for you since the moment I first met you. You were betrothed to Jace, yet I was always hoping to have you. You became my friend, my companion. When you came to me in need and asked me to wed you, I did not hesitate because I wanted you. And I still do."
"Such sweet words…but they do not move me. You should know better. I am a woman who is impressed by one's actions."
"Very well. I can see that this is pointless."
"Yes. Your groveling bores me."
"I am to attend the Council meeting. Gedmund is finally out and I may resume my true post. You should be happy. We are to remain at Court, and you shall be alongside your sister."
"Oh, but of course. My husband lays his seed in the Princess of Dorne, has a son by her, and I am to express my gratitude because said husband gives me the opportunity to live at Court." Baela's voice was dripping with sarcasm.
Laena could not contain the gasp that passed her lips, drawing the attention of both the Lord and Lady of Driftmark to the doors.
Baela instantly rushed forward, her hand gripping her sword, ready to confront whoever had been listening in on their private discussion.
"Laena!" Baela exclaimed with a gasp, and pulled her daughter inside at once, locking the doors.
"I am sorry, Mama! I…"
"What have you heard?" she demanded, her eyes flashing angrily towards Alyn.
Laena fidgeted for a moment, her eyes locking with her father's, before whispering, "Everything."
Leaning close, Baela warned, "You are not to repeat a word of any of this to anyone, do you understand me? Not Visenya. Not even Aunt Rhaena."
Baela was terrified for the first time in a long while. More than anything she had hoped that her daughter would never discover what her father had done.
Shaking her daughter by her shoulders, Baela hissed, "Do you understand me?"
"Yes, Mama!" Laena exclaimed, tears having started to fall down her cheeks.
Monkey screeched, sensing the tension in the room.
"You're frightening her!" Alyn scolded his wife, coming forth and pulling Laena away.
The Lord of Driftmark had always been highly protective of his daughter. Despite what Baela claimed about his preference for a son, he had always loved Laena dearly.
With their current situation, Alyn figured it best that he be the one to explain the matter to his daughter. Taking both of Laena's small hands in his, he sat them both on chairs and did so the best way he knew.
…
"This is outrageous!" Gedmund Peake exclaimed, standing up from the table, glaring at all the Council members, as though a conspiracy had been put in place.
"We thank you for your long servitude to the Crown, Ser Gedmund. It had been greatly appreciated. But even you cannot deny that you have grown in age. Our fleets would benefit more from a younger yet still experienced commanding presence. As such, we have determined Lord Alyn Velaryon to be best suited for the role." Viserys explained, calmly.
"I care not for your strategies, Lord Hand! And do not believe me to think that you are impartial in this matter. Choosing your own good-brother for this position, despite the fact that I happen to be more qualified." Gedmund snapped, which only made Aegon close his eyes in agony, not bearing to have to deal with a new conflict.
Scoffing, Alyn stated, "My wife's monkey is more suited to command these fleets than you are, Ser Gedmund. Be wise and remove yourself with dignity, while you still can."
"This matter does not concern you, Oakenfist. You think that you may do as you wish, come and go as you please, and you will have every perfect opportunity waiting here for you. The position of Lord Admiral is a responsibility, one which I have taken most seriously for the past years. I have served the Crown faithfully…" Gedmund insisted, but he was interrupted by Viserys.
"No one is saying that you have not, Ser Gedmund, but I believe the Crown has made its reasoning quite clear the first time."
"Is this His Grace's wish?"
"My chosen Hand may speak for me, Ser Gedmund. Indeed, I thank you for your service, but now I require Lord Alyn's experience. He has agreed to take a long break from his voyages, as his last one proved to be most fruitful, and he is now here to serve indefinitely." King Aegon told him, with a small nod, his dark purple eyes expressing naught but sincerity, as always.
Shaking his head in disbelief, Gedmund looked around at the rest of Council members who were avoiding his gaze, choosing to remain silent.
"Unwin was right." Gedmund found himself saying.
"And what do you mean by that?" Alyn asked, eager to provoke him.
"What I mean is that soon or late, this Council shall be formed by none other than Valyrians, in complete disregard of the true ethnic group of this great Realm."
"Careful, ser!" Viserys warned, sensing his temper rising.
Wishing to put an end to another discord, Aegon intervened, saying, "Ser Gedmund, please do remain on in the Red Keep. There is no need to rush home."
"I should like to inform my nephew personally of the decision made…however, I appreciate Your Grace's kindness, and I shall like to return. I have lived here for so long, after all. It is quite difficult for me to accept these new circumstances." Ser Gedmund explained.
At this, Alyn and Isembard both rolled their eyes, knowing full well that Gedmund Peake desired to stay on so as to torment them. They could not, however, disobey the King's wishes.
"I bid you all a good day! Lord Isembard, Grand Maester and Ser Raynard. You are not Valyrian, so I should hope that you are not to lose your posts anytime soon. Ser Corwyn's, however, I believe is perfectly secured. Being married to a Targaryen does have its advantages, of course."
Corwyn Corbray, despite being a very skilled knight, was fairly intelligent as well. Intelligent enough to ignore Gedmund's remark and not respond to any such provocation. He knew that he had been granted plenty of advantages because he was Rhaena's husband. However, he was also aware of his own skills when it came to the battlefield but also on a Council such as this one.
The position of Master of Laws suited him well, as it turned out. Not something he would have expected, as he had spent most of his life on the field, wielding their House's ancestral longsword, Lady Forlorn, as per his father's request. It is gratifying to know that his mind is also of use in this world.
As for Ser Gedmund, it seemed that he did manage to provoke the Lord of Driftmark.
"I'm warning you…" Alyn hissed, already rising from the table, in mood of a good fight, especially after all the trouble he went through on this day, having to deal with Baela and attempting to explain his indiscretions to his daughter of one and ten.
"No need. Enjoy your posting, Oakenfist. And much luck to you, as you are in need of it."
"Escort yourself out, Ser Gedmund! You have said enough!" Viserys ordered, and Ser Raynard Ruskyn also rose from the table, prepared to take him out of the room by force if need be.
"I sincerely hope you are not to regret your decision later on, Your Grace. Thank you for the opportunity. It has been an honor to serve you on this Council." Ser Gedmund stated rather bitterly, his words lacking any sincerity, as he bowed and made his way out the doors.
…
The oak heart tree in the Red Keep's Godswood was a rather charming place for a man to meet his soon to be bride.
That is precisely where the young Lord Lyonel Tyrell had been waiting to see the Princess Visenya.
When she finally arrived, she was accompanied by her trusted lady-in-waiting, Prudence Celtigar.
"Oh. He is rather…thin." Prudence noted from the distance, while holding onto Visenya's arm.
Her comment managed to make the Princess chuckle, as she agreed, "Indeed he is. He appears to be a good man…but he certainly does not interest me."
"Have you spoken to him until now?"
"Yes. We have exchanged pleasantries, but have not had a proper conversation until this day." Visenya explained.
"Well, then I feel honored that you have invited me to join you." Prudence replied with a grin.
As they came close, the two girls noticed the Lord Tyrell's joyous disposition having been ruined by the many smokeberries which had suddenly fallen on him.
Prudence covered her mouth, but the sounds of her giggles were heard by the lord, who was trying his best so as he does not step on the smokeberries. Everyone knew that they were oft collected by the maids so as to make brown wine.
"Careful, my lord! We are in need of those berries!" Prudence exclaimed boldly, all the while giggling, her blue eyes twinkling as Lord Tyrell finally turned his gaze away from the Princess Visenya, so as he could observe her companion.
Visenya spoke up, "Lord Tyrell. Thank you for accepting to meet me."
Lyonel finally looked away from Prudence so as he could provide all the necessary attention to his betrothed.
"But of course, Princess. We are to be married, so I suppose it is expected of me to court you properly beforehand." the young man responded with a nervous smile.
"For someone who wears the proud golden rose, I do not believe you to be prickly at all. No thorns whatsoever." Prudence found herself talking, although she knew better than to once again take the attention away from the Princess.
Visenya, however, did not seem to mind, as she looked between them.
Lady Celtigar's remark managed to make the young lord redden in the cheeks.
Visenya believed it time for proper introductions to be made.
"My lord Tyrell, I present my lady-in-waiting, Prudence Celtigar."
"Of course. Lady Prudence. I am pleased to meet you." Lyonel bowed and took her hand in his so as he may kiss it.
"The pleasure is all mine, my lord." Prudence replied, all the while holding his gaze.
Once parted, Lyonel took care not to insult his betrothed and provided her with attention.
"Do forgive me for saying so, Princess, but it is as if the two of you are sisters."
Visenya and Prudence smiled at one another.
"'Tis true. The Valyrian blood is quite strong in us both. But if you look more closely, you are to see, my lord, that Prudence has a more golden head than mine own, and her eyes are crystal blue, whereas mine are the usual Valyrian purple.", the Princess explained.
"Of course, yes…of…yes. Blue. Purple. Yes." Lyonel found himself stuttering.
Out of the corner of her eye, Visenya saw Viserys of all people on the inside balcony overlooking the Godswood. With his usual serious expression, his eyes were on them, which gave Visenya the perfect opportunity.
Taking the man's attention away from her lady-in-waiting, Visenya stepped closer until she was face to face with Lord Lyonel.
"I am quite intrigued by you, my lord. I must say, I was not at all excited by the idea of marrying someone I have never met before, but seeing you now…I admire your looks, your wit, and your obvious charm. I shall be delighted to know you better, so as we may be close enough by the time we are wed." Visenya stated with a most flirtatious tone, taking his hand in hers.
"I am flattered, my princess. Mayhaps 'tis time to be alone." Lyonel whispered, and looked towards Prudence, who remained standing there and for the first time since she became lady-in-waiting at Court, she was quiet.
Visenya's eyes turned towards the balcony, noting even from a distance the fury in Viserys' eyes when he noticed her hands all over the young lord. Precisely how she wanted it.
Biting the inside of her cheek to suppress a smile, Visenya took Lord Lyonel's arm and walked away from the Godswood, her own plan somehow making her forget all about the Lady Prudence left standing under the smokeberry vines.
A/N: Thanks for reading! Hope you enjoyed it!