The Rogue Prince:
The naming of Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen as heir to the Iron Throne remains a controversial moment in Westeros' history. King Viserys I named her heir as a means to prevent his headstrong brother Daemon from claiming the throne at the insistence of his advisors even if many of them were quick to try and go against her later on. This one moment at the time was said to have been an attempt to prevent a future tyrant from coming to the throne but instead, it started one of the most devastating wars in history though that would not be clear for many years. As for me, life carried on as normal though the Stepstone crisis would soon explode and I would begin my first adventure outside of Westeros.
Macea Targaryen: The dragon of Sothoryos:
King's Landing:
It had been six months since the death of Queen Aemma Targaryen, six months since the exile of Prince Daemon Targaryen and the naming of Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen as heir to the Iron Throne. While these six months had been a period of mourning for both Viserys and Rhaenyra, things were not going as well as they would like to believe they were. Despite being ordered to return to Runestone in the Vale and his wife, Prince Daemon had instead gone to Dragonstone and made himself at home there. Many of the Gold Cloaks had joined him out of their loyalty to him and the king had done nothing about it as he was still grieving the loss of his wife and son. And now he has suffered another loss.
Ser Ryam Redwyne, lord Commander of the Kingsguard and a member of the order for over 50 years since first joining in 60AC and serving both Jaehaerys and Viserys as Lord Commander and also a brief role as Hand of the King although he was terrible at that job, had passed away in his sleep of old age.
King Viserys had called for the council to gather to discuss the situation as well as remember Ser Ryam. All of the council was there although Corlys Velaryon was absent, he was still unhappy that nothing was being done about the Stepstones. Rhaenyra was still serving as cupbearer even if she was now heir to the throne.
"Ser Ryam was a strong Lord Commander of the Kingsguard." Viserys said "But he was ill for some time. He passed in peace I hope?"
Grand Maester Mellos nodded "Yes your Grace." He said "He was found to have slipped away in his sleep. His remains are being prepared by the Silent Sisters and the new Lord Commander of the Kingsguard would like to make haste in finding Ser Ryam's replacement."
Ser Harrold Westerling was now the Lord Commander of the Kingsguard "The Kingsguard will soon be restore to its full complement of seven. I have already gathered a number of candidates with help from the Hand. All have passed the first trials."
Aerys nodded "Good, Ser Ryam was a fine knight with a long tale. I'm sure he will serve as an example of what being a Kingsguard embodies." He then sighed "And I have some more news, the situation in the Stepstones is escalating rapidly."
As soon as he finished saying that, the doors opened and the missing member of the Council, Lord Corlys Velaryon stormed in looking furious "Four ships have now been lost!" he hissed "The last one was flying my banner! The Stepstones have now grown into a conflagration, yet you sit here and ditter about court business."
Otto Hightower interrupted "If you've something to discuss Lord Corlys..." he began only for Corlys to interrupt him.
"I want to know what is to be done about my ships and my men!" Corlys all but hissed.
"The Crown will compensate you for your ships and crew and make an offering to the men's families." Otto replied.
Corlys was not impressed "I don't want compensation, I want a clear message to be sent. I want leave to sail to the Stepstones and burn this crabfeeder out."
"You mean start a war with the Triarchy?" Viserys questioned "I'm sorry Corlys but I cannot allow that. I'm sorry for the loss of your men and ships but I cannot start war over your pride."
"My pride?" Corlys hissed "This is more than just about my pride! One ship managed to escape, they informed me there was a major storm and then the Triachry ships attacked them while in the storm. They didn't even sail close to the Stepstones, they attacked outside their waters, these are pirate tactics and we cannot allow this to stand."
"Who do you think supplies these men?" Viserys asked
Lord Beesbury then spoke up "I must agree with our king Lord Corlys, never in the history has the seven kingdoms entered open warfare with the free cities, the costs of such a war would be astronomical."
"But we cannot allow these attacks to go unanswered." Aerys stated "If we allow foreign forces to attack our ships outside of their waters then we will appear weak and others might do the same. The Greyjoys for instance, they long for a return to the old ways."
"These four ships are just the beginning." Corlys nodded "Soon they will be raiding our shores, what reason does the crab-feeder have to fear us. Prince Daemon has been allowed to seize the island of Dragonstone and fortify it with his army of gold cloaks and you do nothing. This type of weak and inaction is what caused many people to rise up against your ancestor Aenys I."
Otto glared at him "Mind your tongue Lord Corlys!" he hissed "You dare insult the King."
"I merely am stating facts." Corlys snapped "If you don't do something soon this situation will only get worse."
Viserys sighed "Well you would be happy to know that I am doing something Lord Corlys." He said "Just not the way you would do things. There is more than one way to handle things rather than just fighting. Diplomacy can go a long way and the Triarchy has many enemies. Pentos, Braavos and Volantis are just as unhappy as we are. I am in talks with the Magister of Pentos to help put pressure on the Triarchy to stop these tolls. Braavos as well are not very please by the Triarchy's demands for slaves."
"That still does not solve the problem of the crab-feeder." Corlys stated "Even if the Triarchy agrees, we still have a potential rogue pirate admiral in command of a major shipping route."
Then Rhaenyra interrupted "We have dragons father." She spoke up and all eyes turned to her "Nothing can stand against dragons and we have used them before. During the last Dornish War our dragons prevented an invasion of our lands by Prince Morian Martell of Dorne, ended the invasion before it began."
Viserys shook his head "That's a dangerous play Rhaenyra." He said "The only dragons we have are Caraxes and Syrax. Daemon is not likely to stir himself from open combat and Syrax is too young."
"We still have Meleys as well." Corlys suggested "And my son have Seasmoke."
"There is still the problem that there are rumours the Triarchy is in talks with the Prince of Dorne over an alliance. If this alliance comes they could give them access to the Scorpions." Aerys stated "Those things are deadly to dragons, I don't think we can risk it but maybe we can find other ways to undermine the Triarchy. I've heard that they're not as united as they like to make out that they are. Maybe we can that mistrust to sow disorder amongst them."
"You mean cutthroat tactics." Otto sneered "Such tactics are unbecoming of Westeros. We should settle this through diplomacy and civilized discourse, not darkling schemes." He ignored the glare he got from both Rhaenyra and Aerys "Prepares these are better uses for the princess' talents than cupbearing today."
"Like what Lord Hand?" Aerys asked
"The princess is giving sound advice and she is the heir to the throne now." Corlys stated
"Advice that will throw the honour of the realm to the dogs and." Otto hissed "We should not..."
Viserys had finally had enough of all this shouting "Enough!" he hissed and turned to Rhaenyra with a softer look "I appreciate the advice from both you and my brother but we cannot rush into this. Let's try diplomacy first. Then if that fails then we can try a show of force." He then looked at Ser Harrold "Why don't you take my daughter to see the candidates for the new Kingsguard post Ser Harrold."
Rhaenyra sighed in annoyance and then left the room with Harrold.
Aerys looked at his older brother "You know you can't keep dismissing her like this." He said "You did make her your heir, you will have to teach her."
"She did give advice but she wants to rush into things." Viserys sighed
"Then teach her what it is like to be a ruler." Aerys replied "Otherwise she is going to get torn apart by her own advisors when she becomes queen."
...
When Rhaenyra arrived at the courtyard, she saw her cousin Macea was there "Ah Rhaenyra." She greeted "I was just admiring the new candidates for the Kingsguard position."
Rhaenyra nodded "My father asked me to help select the one who will take the position." She said and she looked over the balcony where seven candidates stood in their armour. They were from different parts of the kingdom which included Houses Caron, Mallister, Tarly, Crakehall and Corbray, also among them was Criston Cole who unlike the others didn't have someone holding a Banner, he seemed to be the odd one out.
Harrold place a carved stone piece of a crow into the centre which was the sigil of House Caron "Ser Desmond Caron, a fine knight." He said and the knight in question stepped forward "Ser of Ser Royce Caron, he has proven strong and resilient in both the Tourney Lists and out. While travelling here through the Kingswood, he brought a would be poacher to justice."
Macea noticed Hand of the King Otto Hightower enter while Rhaenyra was admiring the knights and he whispered into her ear "You might want to thank him for his service Princess."
Rhaenyra nodded "I thank you for your loyal service to the crown Ser Desmond." Desmond nodded and went back into his position while Rhaenyra then noticed her distant cousin Rhaenys Targaryen staring at her from another position.
As Harrold was beginning to introduce the next candidate, Ser Ryman Mallister, son of Lord Lyman Mallister of Seaguard, she noticed that many of these knights were just winners of tournaments. So she asked for something "Do any of these knights have actual combat experience?" she asked "Beyond capturing poachers."
Harrold looked at her before moving a piece that looked like a tower to the centre "Ser Criston Cole, son of the steward of the Lord of Blackhaven." He introduced
"Be well Ser Criston." Rhaenyra greeted and she leaned against the banister "You saw combat in the Stormlands?"
"In the Dornish Marches actually." Criston corrected "I fought for a year as a footsoldier against the Dornish incursion. Ser Ryman Dondarrion knighted me after we raised several watchtowers along the border."
After listening, Rhaenyra made her decision "I choose Ser Criston Cole."
Otto stepped forward "Let's not be too hasty Princess." He stated "I don't doubt Ser Criston's abilities but Houses such as Mallister and Crakehall as powerful allies of the crown. Seaguard for instance is the realm's primary defence against reavers from the Iron Islands."
"These men are tourney knights." Rhaenyra stated "Being a Kingsguard is a duty to defend the royal family, not a place for a knight to gain glory for their family. We should be defended by a man who knows real combat."
"She does have a point." Macea stated "The Kingsguard was set up after the Dornish tried to assassinate Aegon I. Family ties do not matter as Kingsguard hold no loyalty to anyone but the royal family. Real combat is different from just tourneys. Plus with the Triarchy situation, the Kingsguard may be needed in case they get any ideas about sending assassins."
Otto wanted to object but deep down, he knew that they were right "Of course Princess."
"Then let's plan Ser Criston's investiture then." Rhaenyra stated and then she walked away.
Macea looked at Criston, he did look like a fine warrior who would make a great addition to the Kingsguard but she was a little worried about the way Rhaenyra looked at him. It would seem that she had developed a crush on this particular knight and that might have been the true reason why she had named him to the Kingsguard but maybe she was just overthinking. It did make her wonder about the other man who made a name for himself in the Tourney, Sai Sahan, what was he doing right now.
...
Unknown to anyone, Sai Sahan was still in the city currently staying at one of the many taverns of the city. He got a bowl of stew and sat at a table where his partner was waiting still wearing a robe that covered everything.
"How's your investigation going?" Sai asked
"Slow." His partner a woman replied "It's not been easy getting information here in the city, I can't even show my face, no one here has seen any of my people in thousands of years and then those Faithful fanatics just cause more trouble."
"What of the this alliance between the Crabfeeder and the Sea Vipers?" Sai asked "Are the rumours true Siravaen?"
"They've made an informal alliance." The woman known as Siravaen replied "The Sea Vipers are pirates but it seems the Crabfeeder may be going rogue, or at least he is pushing it. They've set up a base of the isolated Tempest Island and used their magic to create a powerful storm, they're using it to push ships towards the Stepstones and then allowing the Crabfeeder to attack them saying they intruded in their waters."
"Lord Corlys Velaryon is pushing for an attack on the Stepstones." Sai stated "If he does eventually then we may need to help, they won't be able to attack the Stepstones while Tempest Island is occupied. It will be hard to approach him though."
"Then we just have to bide our time." Siravaen stated "After all, like you said, patience is a virtue."
...
Meanwhile, after selecting Ser Criston as the new Kingsguard, Rhaenyra had gone off to the Great Sept of King's Landing to light a candle in her mother's honour. Alicent and Macea had joined her. "It's only been half a year since my mother died." Rhaenyra sighed "And already they've tried to marry my father off and replace me as heir. Even my father won't take me seriously. I've seen how these men plot in their secret councils when I've been sent away."
Alicent tried to cheer her friend up "You cannot worry at the matters of lords and Kings Rhaenyra." She said "What if your father was to remarry?" Rhaenyra sent nothing and she added "Your father loves you, he chose you as his heir."
"To spur Daemon." Rhaenyra snapped "And Aerys refuses to take the throne so that left me."
Alicent sighed "Kneel with me." She said as she knelt by the main alter which had many candles lit on it. Rhaenyra looked at her and then did as she said while Macea stood nearby. She didn't really believe in the Seven but respected Alicent's beliefs. "This is how I try to be closer to my mother, she died when I was really young but I was still old enough to remember how she would comfort me when I was small. Praying was a way to cope with her loss and it became a close habit of mine. I know it sounds silly."
"Actually it feels good." Rhaenyra smiled "Peaceful actually."
Macea smiled as she watched Rhaenyra and Alicent, it had been a while since she had seen her cousin like this due to how difficult it was for her to cope with the loss of her mother and she had been much older than when Alicent or Macea had lost their mothers. But there was something she wanted to talk about with Rhaenyra, in private without Alicent because it concerned her father.
"Alicent." Macea spoke "I hope you don't mind but I would like to have a few words with my cousin in private."
Alicent looked at her for a few moments before nodding "Alright then. I'm going back to the Red Keep."
Alicent left and Macea knelt down next to Rhaenyra in Alicent's place which made Rhaenyra look at her "I thought you didn't believe in the Seven?" she stated
"I don't." Macea whispered "And keep your voice down a bit, I don't want anyone to hear us."
"Why?" Rhaenyra whispered
"You never know who could be listening in." Macea stated "And I don't want Alicent to hear us, she might take it the wrong way as it concerns her father."
"Otto?" Rhaenyra gasped "Why?"
Macea sighed "You know that my father doesn't trust him. He thinks he had too much influence over your father. It was him who suggest the idea of naming you heir but my father thinks he will be a quick to turn on you as quick as he was to put your name ahead. Alicent won't tell you this but she had been meeting your father in secret?"
Rhaenyra gasped "What!"
Macea quickly silenced her "Please don't be mad at her, this isn't her fault, her father's put her up to it no doubt. My father has seen her enter his chambers a few times though when he has entered, he's only seen them talking over that model of Valyria he's been building. My father suspects Otto is using Alicent to gain more power."
"What can we do about it?" Rhaenyra asked "Alicent is my friend but I can't let her get drawn into this."
Macea sighed "My father is hoping to convince your father to take a new wife. One that will benefit the kingdom but I am a bit worried about his idea as well."
"Who?" Rhaenyra asked
"Our distant cousin, Laena Velaryon, Lord Corlys daughter." Macea replied.
...
While Macea, Alicent and Rhaenyra were having their conversation, Aerys met up with his brother in the Red Keep gardens which overlooked the Blackwater Bay. These gardens we a place for relaxation where you could just stare at the horizon. It also provided a good view for watching dragons and their riders. Aerys wanted to discuss something with his brother along with Lord Corlys.
Soon Lord Corlys arrived along with his wife, Princess Rhaenys Targaryen, the Queen who never was, eldest son of Aemon Targaryen and Viserys' cousin. "Your Grace." Corlys greeted "I would like to apologize for my outburst earlier today in the cousin meeting. It was not my intention to make offence."
Viserys looked at his cousin by marriage "Your fleet is one of the realm's most important assets Lord Corlys." He stated "But you must understand as king it is my obligation to avoid war, until such time it is unavoidable."
"Such beliefs make you a wise king brother." Aerys stated "But be careful, sometimes it can be taken for weakness. Personally I don't want to see a war either but if the Crabfeeder keeps raiding our ships, we will have to answer."
"We can use connections in Pentos and Braavos to put pressure on the Triarchy though." Viserys replied.
After a few moments of silence, Corlys added something "Might I speak plainly?" at Viserys nodded he carried out "I fear that the eyes of our enemies are presently fixed on the Red Keep. The queen has passed and a girl has been named heir to the Iron Throne, the first in it's history, one of the King's brothers has been disinherited and has claimed the Targaryen seat on Dragonstone without any resistance and now a foreign power has established a colony on our doorstep in our most critical shipping lane."
Viserys rubbed his eye "You paint such an aspirant portrait of my reign Lord Corlys." He commented
"It is an honest one cousin." Rhaenys stated "We both know that the realm could easily tear itself apart. It happened before you know upon your father's passing. Lords chose sides over who would inherit the Throne and only with your uncle Vaegon's suggestion did an agreement come at Harrenhal just before our grandfather died. You and I know that there are those who would refuse to see a woman sit on the throne, the realm needs to be stable."
"Rhaenys is right." Aerys stated "At the moment the crown is perceived as being vulnerable."
"To elude a storm, you can either sail into it or around it." Corlys stated, it was a saying from his days as a seafarer "But you must never await its coming."
"So do any of you have a specific course of action to propose?" Viserys asked
"Houses Targaryen and Velaryon have so much in common." Corlys stated "We're both all that remains of the Freehold and a way to show unity is to join our families. I have a daughter who is unmarried. With the Targaryen dragons and the Veleyron fleet, you can show the realm that the crown's strongest days are ahead."
"Laena?" Viserys questioned "She's a girl of two and ten. I haven't given much thought of remarriage as of yet I admit."
"The realm expects you to take a new wife soon or late your Grace." Rhaenys stated "To strength your line and produce more heirs to secure the future. You couldn't ask for a stronger match than Laena."
Aerys looked at his brother "May I have a few words with my brother alone?" he asked. Corlys and Rhaenys nodded and they walked away "You know they are right. Even though you have a daughter, it is expected of you to ensure the line is secured."
"You never remarried." Viserys stated
Aerys sighed "I am quite far down the inheritance line." He replied "Plus I've never really been one to rule. I could never handle the pressure. But it is important to ensure the line is full, grandfather had 13 children and only Vaegon outlived him. He lived a long life and you're still young. You still have a full life ahead of you."
Viserys sighed "You know I am doubting myself on that one." He stated "I don't think I will live as long as Jaehaerys did, my wounds are reopening constantly and sometimes I feel strange at night."
"Have you ever considered looking into alternative treatments?" Aerys asked
"I trust Grand Maester Mellos." Viserys dismissed "Anyway I need to think about this proposal of remarriage."
...
The next day, Rhaenyra had decided to seek out her cousin Macea. After the trip to the Sept the day before, she had encountered Rhaenys Targaryen who had warned her about being named heir and then later she had taken Alicent's advice and spoken to her father during Dinner. Now though she wanted to speak to her cousin.
She found Macea's room and knocked and at Macea's reply, she let herself in. Macea's room was benefiting of a princess just like her own but Rhaenyra could see that she was not as interested in the womanly duties. Instead of having musical instruments and materials for needlework, she instead had her books which talked about both history, sword fighting and dragons. Like her ancestors, Macea strongly loved the dragons and was more reluctant to go with the Andal belief system, something she had in common with Daemon. Right now Macea was reading a book on the ancient Dragonguard which she put down when Rhaenyra entered.
"Ahhh, Rhaenyra, is there something you wish to discuss?" Macea asked
"Well, kind of." Rhaenyra stated "I had a talk with father like Alicent suggested before."
Macea smiled "And how did it go?" she asked
"Well." Rhaenyra replied "He agreed with my decision to name Ser Criston to the Kingsguard but I also spoke about my worries about being named heir. Before dinner I had a talk with Rhaenys and she said the realm would rather bleed than see a woman crowned. Plus there's the added thing about my father's remarriage plus the fear of my own."
Macea sighed "I know how you feel." She said "As princesses we don't really get much of a choice on who we marry. I'm lucky that my father won't let anyone pressure him in forcing me to marry. But as heir to the Iron Throne, you would have to make a good match for the realm. Same with your father, being a queen is not just a right but a duty. Even if your father didn't have a son, there are those who would try to belittle you and manipulate you on the account of your gender. Apart from Dorne, most areas of the world are pretty sexist towards us ladies. But sometimes we have to show them that we can be powerful and send a clear message."
"Is that what I will have to do?" Rhaenyra asked
"You won't have it easy." Macea stated "But my father and I will stand by you. But you are going to have to be more forceful about the council. If you just sit back then your rivals might try to overrule you. Father is worried about that, while Beesbury and Strong may be supportive of you, he is concerned about the others, Hightower in particular. You father places far too much faith in him, Daemon sees it and even my father sees it. He may have to be dealt with soon but sometimes it is best to just let him ruin themselves. That's the thing with court favourites, they can fall out of favour as quickly as they've gained it."
Before Rhaenyra could reply, there was a knock at the door and Ser Harrold entered the room "I'm sorry princesses." He said "But the king has requested your presence at the Small Council, there's been an incident?"
"What kind of incident?" Rhaenyra asked
"I'm not sure on the whole details but there has been a theft. That of a dragon egg from the Dragonpit." Harrold replied.
...
Daemon and Macea arrived at the Small Council chambers, Viserys looked furious while Aerys looked annoyed. The other council members were wondering about everything. One of the Dragonkeeper Elders stood nearby having spoken to Viserys about the theft having explained what had happened.
"What's going on?" Macea asked
"It Daemon!" Aerys hissed "He has come to the Dragonkeep in the dead of night and stolen a dragon egg."
"And why would he do this?" Rhaenyra asked "Why would he need a dragon egg, he already has Caraxes."
"He left a missive." Otto explained "One that might explain everything."
Mellos then unrolled the scroll and began reading off it "It is the pleasure of Daemon Targaryen, prince of Dragonstone and rightful heir to the Iron Throne, to announce that he is to take a second wife in the tradition of Old Valyria. She is to assume the title of Lady Mysaria of Dragonstone, she is with child and is to have a dragon's egg in the babe's cradle as per tradition of House Targaryen."
The council began to argue about the course of action, Otto and Lyonel Strong said that this was sedition and needed to be answered. Even Corlys agreed that action needed to be taken but Viserys knew that this was what Daemon would want him to do plus he couldn't bring himself to harm his brother.
Macea looked at Rhaenyra while they were all arguing "Why would Daemon come here for an egg though?" she asked her "Silverwing still resides on Dragonstone, he could have taken one of her eggs?"
Rhaenyra had a horrible thought and then asked the Dragonkeeper in Valyrian "Which egg did Daemon take?" she asked
The council went quite and looked at Rhaenyra who asked the question again and the Keeper replied "The egg was from Dreamfyre's clutch my princess. The one you selected for Prince Baelon's cradle."
Viserys widened his eyes, as did Aerys. They were the only ones who understood High Valyrian. They all knew what this was, it was a message from Daemon. Viserys then narrowed his eyes "Assemble a detachment Otto." He ordered and stood up "I will go to Dragonstone and drag Daemon back to face the king's Justice." He began to walk away but Otto stood up and interrupted
"Your Grace, my apologizes but I cannot allow that." He said simply "It's too dangerous, Daemon is without limit. Let me go to Dragonstone."
Aerys then stood up, he didn't like Otto but he could see that him going was a bad idea "Otto no, it is unwise for you to go. Daemon has an army of Gold Cloaks and his hatred of you is well known. If you go then he probably won't hesitate to kill you. Let me go brother, I can probably get through to him and get him to return the egg without bloodshed."
"You mean he just gets away with what he did?" Otto sneered
Aerys shook his head "No, I will get him to leave Dragonstone as well but we are not kin slayers!" he hissed "If you go this will only escalate and like my brother said, it is his duty to ensure peace in the realm."
Viserys looked at his youngest brother for a few moments "Alright, you go. Ensure you bring back that egg and get Daemon to understand what he did is unacceptable."
...
While Aerys was getting ready to go to Dragonstone to retrieve the stolen dragon egg. Macea and Rhaenyra were alone discussing the situation. "I can't believe Daemon would do this." Rhaenyra stated "He is playing a dangerous game."
"He still sees himself as the rightful heir to the Iron Throne." Macea stated "The realm sees your father as weak because of the situation in the Stepstones. Some look to Daemon to solve the issue. This is just a message to us all that he will not go down without a fight and he will not give up."
"He is challenging me as heir to the throne." Rhaenyra stated "I should be there to show the realm that I can solve crises."
"Then maybe you should go." Macea suggested "We have dragons, my father doesn't, they could use some backup in order to help in case Daemon gets any ideas."
"Father won't like it." Rhaenyra stated
"You told me before you feel like your father isn't really helping you as heir to the throne, you need to show him that you can make decisions. Solve this crisis and your father may pay more attention to you and the council members will also see you as more than just a girl."
Rhaenyra looked at her cousin and then smiled "Let's do it then."
Dragonstone: Later on:
Dragonstone, the original seat of House Targaryen from the days of Old Valyria from a distance looked like a small volcanic island with a castle built with Valyrian magic to make it seem like several dragons. Made of black stone, the castle had a grim look but it was historically important to the Targaryens, the heir to the throne was known as the Prince of Dragonstone and the island did have a strategic location at the mouth of Blackwater Bay along with the neighbouring island of Driftmark. Maesters have different opinions as to why the Valyrians had an outpost on the islands. Some claim it may have been used as a trading outpost, others say that it was meant to be used as an outpost for further expansion into Westeros until the Doom of Valyria put an end to such plans. Both theories were possible as the Targaryens planned their conquest from the island even as they were involved in foiling Volantis expansion in Essos following the Doom.
Aerys Targaryen arrived with a small force of men to solve the situation. He hoped to do this without bloodshed but still it would be foolish of him to come alone. His force included twenty guards as well as two members of the Kingsguard, Lord Commander Westerling and the newest addition, Ser Criston Cole. They landed at one of the nearby harbour villages and then walked to the main castle up the side of a volcano. They soon arrived at the main bridge leading to the Keep and Daemon Targaryen was there along with several of his Gold Cloaks which included Randyll Berret and Luthor Largent. Next to him stood his mistress Mysaria.
"Welcome to Dragonstone brother." Daemon greeted "I am surprised to see you here, where is our kingly brother?"
"He wanted to come but Otto convinced him not to." Aerys stated "Otto wanted to come here himself but I warned him of what would happen. I don't want to hurt you brother but I cannot allow this farce to go on. You are ordered to relinquish the dragon's egg you stole, disband your army, banish your mistress and vacate this island. What I want to know though is why?"
"I'm simply keeping with the traditions of House Targaryen." Daemon replied "A dragon's egg for my unborn child."
"Those traditions are meant for trueborn children Daemon." Aerys replied "Not for bastards, if every child with dragon blood was given an egg then we would have no dragons. It's important not to allow our dragons to spread to other houses otherwise we could be challenged. Our dragons are what allowed us to have control over those who would seek to remove us. Also why this egg, Silverwing would have given you a egg for your child." She then eyes Mysaria
Daemon looked at Mysaria for a moment who had wide eyes and then back at Aerys "You are right about several things. This was all a test."
"A test?" Aerys questioned
"You've seen it for yourself." Daemon replied "Our kingly brother is weak, while he sits on the throne a foreign power has established a colony on our doorstep and interrupting our shipping lanes. Criminal run rampart in our capital and a Hand of the King is gaining more power and he can't even see it. This is Aenys the weak all over again. If someone doesn't step up then the Targaryen power will fall."
Aerys stepped forward "So you did this as a test?" he questioned "Daemon you are playing a dangerous game here, I don't trust Otto either but is it worth plunging the realm into chaos?
Daemon just smiled "You've come for the egg, here it is." He held out the dragon egg that he stole. "Although in future, you may want to bring something that I have which you don't."
As if on cue, a roar was heard, one that Aerys knew too well. Climbing over the mountains was Daemon's dragon Caraxes, also known as the Blood Wyrm. First ridden by Prince Aemon Targaryen, eldest son of King Jaehaerys and was used to combat the Dornish in the Fourth Dornish war of 83 AC and again against rogue Myrish pirates who invaded Tarth in 92 AC, the conflict which saw Aemon killed in battle. Daemon claimed Caraxes shortly afterwards.
Aerys looked at him as Caraxes landed behind Daemon "This is why you are unfit to be king, you're attitude will make you many enemies and you can't just use dragons every time. There are other ways to solve things but if you relay on dragons too much then if we ever lose that advantage then we will fall."
"Still, when you hold an advantage, you use it." Daemon replied.
Then there were two more roars and two more dragons appeared, everyone watched as they saw the yellow gold scales of Syrax, the dragon of Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen followed by the black scales of Shadowfyre, the dragon of Aerys' daughter Macea. Syrax landed on the bridge behind Aerys while Shadowfyre hovered near the bridge keeping a close eye on Shadowfyre.
Rhaenyra then slowly dismounted and walked through the guards and Aerys looked at her "What are you doing here Princess?" he demanded
"Preventing bloodshed." Rhaenyra replied simply.
"There's no need for that, I have it all under control." Aerys replied "Ser Criston please escort the Princess to safety."
Rhaenyra just ignored him "Be wary of Syrax, she's very protective of me. Plus Shadowfyre is on standby."
Aerys looked at his daughter who looked back at him "I'm sorry father, but Rhaenyra is the heir, she insisted that she has to be doing something. It is her duty as well and having backup never hurts."
Rhaenyra then walked closer to Daemon and spoke to him in Valyrian "My father named me Princess of Dragonstone, that means that this is my castle you are living in uncle."
"Not until you come of age." Daemon defiantly replied
The two of them went back and forward but when Rhaenyra correctly pointed out that Mysaria was not with child, the woman in question turned around and walked away. Then Rhaenyra switched back to the common tongue "I'm right here uncle, the object of your ire, the reason you were disinherited."
Daemon looked at her "I don't blame you at all." He hissed "It's that cunt Otto, he manipulated my brother into think I was celebrating the death of his wife and brother."
Aerys added "The way you acted that day didn't do you any favours." He pointed out "You were in a brothel getting drunk and cheering with your Gold Cloaks, that seems a lot like a celebration party than mourning."
Daemon said nothing, he just threw the egg into Rhaenyra's hands and stormed off. Caraxes followed him. With the threat dealt with, Macea and Shadowfyre flew away. Rhaenyra placed the dragon egg in a caldron carried by two Dragon Keepers and then she mounted Syrax and flew away as well.
...
King's Landing:
Later that evening, everyone returned to King's Landing. Macea and Rhaenyra on their dragons while Aerys returned via ship. It didn't take long for Aerys to inform his oldest brother about what had happened and soon both Macea and Rhaenyra were in Viserys' chambers.
"You disobeyed me." Viserys stated simply "You fled King's Landing without a word and you acted without the crown's leave. You are my only heir, you could have been killed."
"And as your heir I have to do things for the realm." Rhaenyra countered "Ever since you named me as heir you have done nothing. You have dismissed my advice and you have never even taught me how what I have to do."
Viserys sighed and then sat down "Sometimes I forget how alike you are with Daemon."
"And my daughter." Aerys added "And Rhaenyra does have a point, there are those who don't want a woman as heir. They're pressuring you to remarry and have a boy who will be the new heir. Not teaching Rhaenyra how to rule make enforce those ideas."
Viserys sighed "You're right Aerys. Aemma death is a wound that will never heal, without her the Red Keep has lost a warmth that will never return."
"I felt the same way after my wife's death." Aerys said "As the youngest son, there was no pressure on me because of how far down the line of succession I am."
Viserys sighed and looked around "My daughter has quickly become a woman grown. But she understands what I must do."
Rhaenyra nodded "The king must take a new wife." She said simply.
"Jaehaerys and his wife Alysanne had many children, many potential heirs. Now there is only us and Daemon. Saera fled to Lys and we haven't heard from her since. Vaegon has retired to the Citadel and every other child has died. We are vulnerable here. Our current adult generation has no male heirs so the rule passes to you Rhaenyra. I will be remarry to strength our family but I can never replace your mother. Nor do I intend to replace you as heir. You are my only heir which is why I brought Aerys and Macea here." He turned to look at them "Look at me, promise me that you will help my daughter, help her survive the snakes and rats that seek to ruin her."
"I will uncle." Macea replied
"As will I brother." Aerys added
"Good." Viserys replied "Now gets some rest, there will be a big announcement tomorrow."
...
The next day, Viserys called the Small Council and all the members turned up. They knew that the king had a big announcement to make, Corlys and Aerys had some ideas on what it was, as did Otto. Once everyone had sat down at the table, Viserys who had been looking out of the window over the city turned around to face everyone.
"Good morrow my lords." He greeted and then he walked over to the table "I have decided to take a new wife."
It was what both Aerys, Otto and Corlys had expected him to say. As did Rhaenyra, now it was time for him to announce who he was going to take to wife. Aerys and Corlys had a good idea of who but Otto had another belief, one that he had been working on.
Viserys looked at his daughter who nodded in approval and then he spoke "I intend to marry," he was silent for a few seconds then added "The Lady Alicent Hightower before spring's end." That got gasps from everyone, even Alicent herself who was standing behind her father. Otto seemed to have a smirk on his face, something Aerys saw.
Corlys' reaction was worse, his face changed into one full of rage and he stood up angrily "This is an absurdity!" he growled as he stood up "My house is Valyrian, the greatest power in the realm."
"And I am your King." Viserys replied simply.
Corlys looked at Otto who had a triumphant smirk on his face. Corlys just snorted and stormed away. Rhaenyra looked at Alicent with a look of betrayal on her face and then she too stormed away. Then Aerys spoke up in anger.
"Out!" he ordered "EVERYONE OUT! I wish to speak to my brother alone."
"My Prince." Otto stated "The king has spoken!"
Aerys glared at him "Shut it Otto! This is between me and my brother! Now everyone out!" The rest of the council got up and left leaving the two brothers alone.
"You had no authority to dismiss the council brother." Viserys stated
"And you have just made a grave mistake." Aerys countered "One that has just cost us one of the most powerful lords in the realm. Corlys will not forget this, first you refuse to deal with the situation in the Stepstones and now you refuse his marriage offer and give it to his rival. Tell me, what does marrying Alicent Hightower give us." When Viserys didn't reply, Aerys added "She gives us nothing, she is the daughter of a second son, a man who many believe is getting too powerful."
"Otto has served me well as Hand." Viserys stated
"And he has manipulated you." Aerys hissed "First he convinced you to disinherit Daemon and name your daughter as heir which goes against everything said at the Great Council. Now he convinces you to marry his daughter which only benefits him. Do you have an idea what you have done to poor Alicent, she is going to have to live with the rumours for the rest of her life. Don't think I saw what happened after Aemma's death, I saw her go into your chambers."
"We did nothing." Viserys stated
"That's not what the people will think." Aerys stated angrily "People see thinks and don't understand everything. The servants and the rat catchers have seen Alicent go into your chambers and that creates rumours, rumours that the two of you were having an affair even when Aemma was alive with how quickly it happened. You have tarnished Alicent's reputation and potentially destroyed the friendship she and Rhaenyra had. Now Otto will probably attempt to convince you to name a son by Alicent as the new heir, just watch. Let me be clear, the only reason I've not resigned as well it because someone has to keep an eye on Otto, resigning will only give him more power but be careful brother, I pray that soon you will see him for the manipulative cunt he really is." With that, he left the room leaving Viserys alone to think.
...
Meanwhile, Rhaenyra stormed over to Macea's chambers and walked in to see her cousin sitting at a desk reading one of her books. "Ah Rhaenyra." She greeted "How did the announcement go."
"Not well." Rhaenyra hissed in anger "I can't believe it, father has said he would be marrying Alicent."
Macea sighed and put down her book "So it is just as father feared. Otto has manipulated Viserys again."
"I can't believe she would do this." Rhaenyra wailed with tears in her eyes "We've been friends for years and now she seduces my father."
Macea got up and hugged her cousin "Don't blame Alicent coz." She said "She is just as much a victim as well. Who do you think put her up to this, her father. Otto Hightower is overstepping himself. Hopefully that will deal with itself but we need to stay together, Otto may have won the battle, but he will lose the war."
Rhaenyra looked at her "So what can we do then?" she asked
"With Corlys spurred, that gives us an ally. Soon the council and realm will divide itself, we need to make allies of our own. Corlys has the biggest navy and the richest pockets. We help him in what he wants, then we will have a powerful weapon in case Otto gets any ideas. I'm going to visit him personally and see if we can make common cause."
Rhaenyra nodded "Thank you Macea."
Macea nodded and looked at Rhaenyra in the eyes "Be careful cousin, Otto has shown himself to be a manipulative snake, one who your father can't see. He will do anything to ruin you and place his own blood on the throne, we have to make sure that doesn't happen. Be careful in future, Otto will use any dirt he has on you to his advantage."
...
Later that day, Corlys Velaryon had official resigned as Master of Ships and taken any men he had with him and left the city making it clear on why. His flagship, the Sea Snake, was leaving the harbour with Corlys on board. He had also sent a raven to request a meeting with someone important to discuss a proposal. Watching the ship leaving the harbour was Sai Sahan and Siravaen stood watching them from Siravaen's ship, The Mad Maiden.
"It would seem that the Sea Snake has finally had enough of the inaction." Siravaen stated
"There may be more to it." Sai stated "But he has no idea what they're facing."
"Which is why I'm going to make a start on Tempest Island." Siravaen replied "We will need to take out the outpost on that island before they can move onto the Stepstones."
"But how can we convince them of the danger?" Sai questioned
Siravaen and Sai heard the roar and watched as the black dragon, Shadowfyre, flew overhead "Something tells me that she will play a role in all of this."
..
High Tide: Driftmark:
Driftmark was closer to the Westerosi mainland than Dragonstone and the Velaryons had ruled the island for centuries making money by trading. While the Targaryens ruled the sky with their dragons, the Velaryons ruled the seas with their ships. The castle of Driftmark was the sea of the Velaryons but Corlys Velaryon had made many riches on his voyages that he had managed to construct a new castle which he called High Tide. The caste was built off the coast of the island and was connected to the land only by a causeway. The nearby fishing village had also developed into a bustling town called Spicetown which made Corlys very popular with the residents.
Corlys sat on a chair in front of a roaring fire with a figure across from him. "House Velaryon's origins reach back to the days of Old Valyria. Possibly older than House Targaryen according to some texts. But unlike the Targaryens, we were not dragonlords, we were merchants. For centuries my house has scratched out a history from the sea with grit and luck. When I came to the Driftwood Throne I knew what I wanted so I took it, I built my houses high seat, this castle I built with the wealth I got from my nine voyages, not every lord can say that they built their castle with the strength of my old back." He looked at the figure sitting with him which turned out to be Daemon Targaryen "I always thought that you and I were built from the same cloth."
Daemon looked at Corlys "I wasn't aware you had a king for a brother." He joked.
Corlys' eyes turned serious "We're both men who have had to cut our own way in the world." He stated simply "We've been passed over too often. You're heard of the troubles in the Stepstones, some Myrish prince has been feed my men to the crabs. For the past year I have been petitioning the king to send my navy to deal with him but he has refused. The crabfeeder is backed by powerful figures in the Triarchy who wish to see Westeros weakened and the king's failures have allowed him to accumulate strength. If those shipping lanes fall, my house will be crippled and so will many other merchants. I will not have Driftmark beggared while our king idles himself with feasts and balls and tourneys. The Stepstones is a chance for you to prove your worth to the people. Our worth is not given, it must be made. I'm done waiting Daemon. I'm going to the Stepstones regardless of what the king says. Join me and my new friend and we will show the whole realm what we can do."
One thing caught Daemon's interest "Who is this friend of yours."
Corlys smirked at the door opened, Daemon was shocked at who walked in, it was his niece Macea wearing a full set of armour "We must show the realm the strength of our houses." She stated "Otto Hightower must be shown that we will not sit back and do nothing. Let's show that cunt that he cannot keep meddling in the affairs of our house. He will regret messing with the Houses of the Dragon and Seahorse."
Chapter End:
Notes: Well after a long time I finally have this chapter complete. I'm currently finding myself struggling right now but I'm not giving up but chapters will be coming out slower so there will be long waits between chapters now but that doesn't mean they will be abandoned. I also went back and changed the name of Macea's dragon from Shadowstorm to Shadowfyre which I think sounds better. I will be working on a chapter of the Wolf Awakens next since I have had a request for it but then I will be going back to my proper novel for a bit.
