Harrenhal/Aegonfort 1 BC.
Visenya Targaryen.
Where the idea had come from, she knew not. One moment they'd been flying to the Vale and the next she was landing and speaking to a child. That it had worked was something she could only put down to the gods or Vhagar. She had brought the Vale to heel though and done so without spilling any more blood than she and Aemon had in Gulltown. Visenya wouldn't lie and say that she didn't enjoy the way Aemon looked at her as they made their way back to the dragons. Nor that she wasn't keen to be alone with him sometime later that day.
First, though they still had things to do and so from the Eyrie it was to Gulltown that they flew. Daemon and the fleet had been left to hold the city and there was now no need for them to do so. For now, they could sail back to Driftmark or on to Oldtown, whichever best suited them. Soon enough they'd be readying to blockade the ports of Dorne if what Aemon had said was true. Her husband's plans for the invasion there were not ones that she, Aegon, or anyone else were truly privy to and mayhap not yet ones that Aemon himself had firmed up.
They arrived at Gulltown just before night fell and so it would be a night in yet another bed that was not their own. A bed that they'd at least share, Visenya thought wickedly as she climbed down off Vhagar's back. After she'd thanked her dragon and watched Aemon do likewise, Visenya was joined by Ghost who stood by her side ready to offer her his protection. Reaching down to rub her hand through his snow-white fur, she closed her eyes and felt a sense of calm come over her. One she'd seen Aemon enjoy when he too did as she was now doing.
"Thank you, Ghost," she said softly as she opened her eyes, the white wolf's tail wagging and the feel of his tongue on her hands both things she welcomed, as she did the sight of Aemon walking her way.
"You were amazing," Aemon said as he lifted her from the ground, his lips seeking her own out, and the look on his face one that sent a shudder through her.
There was admiration there and yet it was the desire in his expression and especially his eyes that Visenya most enjoyed seeing. Rarely had she ever known anyone to look at her in such a way. Aegon did his husbandly duty when they were together and yet he had never looked at her so. While other men may have wished for her in their bed, they'd kept their glances at her hidden and out of Aegon's sight. Aemon hid nothing from her when he stared into her eyes. His feelings for her were clear as she looked at him and felt him turn as he held her above the ground.
"Let me down at once, Aemon Targaryen," Visenya said playfully.
"I think not, wife," Aemon replied as he kissed her once again.
Had it not been for the arrival of men of House Velaryon, then their game may have stretched on for some time. Instead, reluctantly as it may have been, Aemon lowered her to the ground and they both attempted to portray a sense of decorum and propriety. Something she managed far better than Aemon did.
"Your graces." one of the guards said as a way of introduction "Lord Daemon awaits."
"Lead the way, young man," Aemon said before winking at her, Visenya chuckling then as the dragons took to the sky and she, Aemon, and Ghost walked with the guards.
They spoke to Daemon and told him that the entirety of the Vale had now knelt to them. Lord Grafton was given control over Gulltown once more and while he held no feast for them, he did feed them well. Visenya explained to Daemon all that had occurred. Her cousin was surprised and yet happy for her once she told him that she'd gotten all she'd wished for. She and Aemon bid Daemon goodnight and took to their bed early. Daemon's words that he was pleased she was so joyful rang in her ears as they left the great hall. Though ostensibly no longer a queen, Visenya cared not and almost reveled in being a princess of House Targaryen instead. She found she much looked forward to the Conquest being brought to a close and to the life that she and Aemon would know at Harrenhal. Something her husband too told her as they lay in bed while catching their breath from their lovemaking.
"You don't hunger for more war?" she asked as Aemon poured her some more wine which she drank down thirstily.
"I've known far too much war in my life. I yearn for peace and for a rest." Aemon said softly "I yearn to spend time with my wife where we can just do this for most of the day."
"Lay abed?" she asked.
"Lay in our bed," Aemon replied, his words making her smile appear unbidden.
They talked about little and everything. Both of them shared things with each other that she'd never shared with anyone and Aemon she doubted had either. Which of them moved to restart their coupling was impossible to tell. It may have been her or Aemon may have beaten her to it. Not that it truly mattered. Eventually, they had exhausted each other completely and Visenya slept while being held in her husband's embrace. She dreamt a dreamless sleep and yet it was one she very much enjoyed.
After breaking their fast the next morning, they said their goodbyes to Daemon and took to the sky once more. They flew from Gulltown to Harrenhal, arriving again just before night fell and this time Visenya noticed the far more excited look on Aemon's face. In the end, they stayed another full day at the keep. Visenya picked out the rooms that would be their own and did so with no thought in her mind that they'd be separate. Aemon looked to the defenses of the keep and to the makeup of the garrison that Aegon had left behind. Some he asked to stay on while others would go from here either to Dragonstone or the Aegonfort.
She and her husband toured the Godswood together and Aemon explained his ideas for where the dragons could call their home. Caves were to be dug into the two hills that seemed as if they'd been built for Vhagar and Rhaegal by the very gods themselves. As well as the burned towers which were to act as roosts somewhat for their dragons when they wished it. Certain things became clear to her very quickly as she and Aemon walked the grounds of what would be their new home. They'd needed more men and much coin. That and once they had done what they wished to, they'd be in the most secure keep in Westeros. From here they'd rule over the Riverlands and do so together. It was far more than she'd ever wished for in truth.
"Visenya?" Aemon asked as he saw her contemplating the days, weeks moons, and years to come.
"The future, Aemon, I'm thinking of the future."
"Our future my love."
It was bright and early when they left to fly to the Aegonfort and they arrived there by mid-afternoon. Though they'd not pushed the dragons to fly fast, Visenya had wished to see just how quickly they could fly from Harrenhal to where Aegon and Rhaenys would soon name their own seat. She would wager they could do so in half the time it had taken them this morning. Something that she'd share with her brother and sister when they joined back up with them.
Work had continued apace and the outside of the Aegonfort was now completely enclosed. Inside, the main building had been expanded upon and though still a temporary seat, it was one that would offer up much comfort. The ground where the true keep would be built was taking shape nicely and the docks were a thing to behold. Just standing and looking out on the bay was enough for Visenya to truly see the potential these grounds would offer in the future. Not that she had to imagine what the city that would one day be here would truly be like, given how Aemon spoke of it.
Aemon walked with her as once again she toured the grounds of her family's seat. This seat was not her own but still, one that she wished to know much about. He pointed out certain places to her were things that their family had built over the years would one day stand. A Dragonpit to hold dragons which would stand on the Hill of Rhaenys. The location where the keep would be built upon the ground that was cleared on Aegon's High Hill. Finally, together they walked to the last of the three hills. This one was to be named after herself and it had been the location for a Great Sept that was built by one of their descendants.
"There will be no Sept to stain this hill this time," Aemon said determinedly.
"You truly have no time for the Faith do you?"
"I was raised to believe in the gods of my mother and her House, Visenya. They ask little of us and are ever watchful. I've seen what zealots do in the name of their faith. What so-called holy men and women would have them do. The gods are good. Those who speak in their name are very much not."
"And you have plans for them?"
"Many, this is but one."
Visenya looked on as Aemon took out his sword and began to dig around the ground at the top of the hill. Once he was happy with the ground he'd disturbed, he reached into his coat and took out what looked to be an acorn, though it was something much different. Placing it on the ground he'd dug up, Aemon moved the soil back over it and then patted it down. She saw him close his eyes and whisper something before rising to his feet and whistling out for Ghost to join them as they walked back to where they'd rest for the night.
"May the Old Gods look after our House and offer it the same protection it's given me," Aemon said as he took her hand in his own, Visenya quickly closed her eyes and offered up the same prayer.
They slept in that night and woke late the next morning. It was after midday when they'd broken their fast and taken to the sky once more. Their journey was a much longer one this time, one that would take them to Oldtown and the heart of the Faith in Westeros. It was one that Visenya most looked forward to as she had long wished to see the city. More so knowing that when they left it would never be the same again.
Ocean Road and Highgarden 1 BC.
Aegon.
They had marched west at the head of a huge army and yet it was not to any true battle that they were heading to. Aegon had said goodbye to the Northmen when they had left the Trident. So it was Reachmen, some Riverlands Men, Men of the West, and his own men that he led towards Highgarden and Oldtown. A journey that he had no true idea of just how long it would take. One he'd have planned better if he'd known just how much traveling was required. Still, it allowed him to see more of the lands that were now his and Rhaenys' domain and to get to know those who'd rule those lands in their name as well.
Loren Lannister was a proud man and one who'd at first not taken his defeat well. Over the course of the march, however, his attitude changed greatly. The man liked Aemon not and so it was just as well his kinsman and sister were far from here. Rhaenys had managed to charm him and his lords and even Aegon himself had found the man good company. As for the Reachmen, they still bristled over the fact it was to be House Tyrell and not one of them that ruled as Warden. Though they had at least accepted they had no real choice in the matter.
When they'd reached Casterly Rock, even Aegon had been left in awe at the keep. Built into the mountains itself, it took him barely a moment to be certain it could not be taken without the loss of many lives. Not even Balerion's flames would bring the Rock to its knees. Unlike Harrenhal. Had Loren not marched to face him in an open field, then it would have taken a siege that could last for moons or more, and one that may not have proved successful, in order to bring Loren, to his knees. As they had in Riverrun or any of the other keeps they passed, he and Rhaenys stayed but one night in the keep. Aegon allowed Loren to remain, yet marched with one of his sons and some of his most powerful Bannermen when they left the following morning. His army had diminished in size if not threat as they traveled through the West and headed for the Reach.
Any time he was not atop his horse and riding next to his wife, Aegon flew on Balerion's back. Ostensibly it was to show those who they marched with that the dragons were always close by, but it was to see the lay of the land too. That it relaxed him and Rhaenys greatly to fly together was a bonus and for them to know only. Today they were flying along the coast itself, with their army some distance behind. The Rock was some distance back and the dragons wished to head out to sea for some reason. Looking to Rhaenys on Meraxes, he pointed to the open water and when Balerion turned, Meraxes soon followed.
The reason for their detour was made clear to him less than an hour later. Aegon smiled when he saw the sails of the ships and the flags they bore. Bidding Balerion to fly lower, he quickly flew over the lead ship and caught sight of Orys standing on the deck. With one more flyover, he looked to where Meraxes was and once he caught Rhaenys' attention, it was back to the land that they flew. They had landed and were back with their army before too long. Aegon at first wished them to stop so he could plot out where Orys would dock. Instead, he did so from atop his horse.
"Ask Lord Tarly to join me," he said to Ser Corlys who rode off to carry out his orders immediately.
"You should have asked for a map, my love," Rhaenys said almost chidingly and Aegon chuckled as they continued riding.
It took only a few moments for Ser Corlys to seek out Lord Samwyle Tarly and bring him to them. The lord bore a worried look on his face which Aegon sought to quickly remove.
"Lord Tarly, you know these lands better than I, which keep is nearest to us and to a decent-sized dock?"
"Old Oak, your grace. The seat of House Oakheart. Lord Arthor could tell you more than I about the docks, however."
"Ser Corlys."
"At once, your grace."
Once Lord Tarly realized that it was not something he'd done wrong or for some punishment that he'd been singled out for, the man relaxed and spoke more freely. When Lord Arthor arrived, he then told them of the cove and docks that his family used. He readily agreed to ride with his men and make it ready to accept the ships that would soon dock there. Later that day, Rhaenys took flight alone and made her way to where she expected Orys and his ships to be. His wife was a far better Dragonrider than he and though their plan of communication was a crude one, it was one that Rhaenys said would work.
It was dark by the time she returned and the smile she bore on her face told him that her mission had been successful. They ate and drank in good spirits that night and by mid-afternoon the next day they'd reached Old Oak. A day later and Orys' ship had docked, its arrival greeted by both him and Rhaenys. Aegon was soon gifted his first view of Orys' bride, Lady Argella, and the woman was indeed a beauty. Dark of hair and blue of eye, he was more than pleased to see that there was already some attraction and affection between his brother by choice and the woman he'd seen him wed. Later during his talk with Orys, he was even happier to find out it was more than that. For now, however, he simply greeted Orys and his new wife and the men they brought.
"Brother it's good to see you hale and hearty," Aegon said as he and Orys embraced.
"You too brother."
"Lady Argella, a true pleasure," Aegon said after he'd moved from Orys, the soft kiss he gave the woman's offered hand the only contact he made with her.
"My queen." he heard Orys say behind him as Aegon looked out on the number of men that had been brought from the Stormlands.
"It's not a true battle, Orys," he said softly when Rhaenys bid Argella join her.
"I know, but a message needs to be sent, Aegon."
"Indeed it does."
They stayed an extra night in Old Oak before leaving the next morning. Aegon was happy to see the affection was genuine between Orys and his wife. He even laughed as truly as he'd done in an age when the night came to an end and both Orys and Argella seemed eager to be abed. Lord Oakheart was given leave to remain in his keep when they marched the next day. Then over the next few days, more and more of the Reachlords were allowed to depart from their army.
It was a far smaller army by the time they reached Highgarden and yet no less imposing. They were met at the gates by Lord Harlan Tyrell who immediately dropped to a knee upon seeing them. Unlike any of the other lords, the man showed no signs of fear or awe when he looked upon the dragons flying in the sky and it took Aegon a moment to realize why that was. Orys though had needed to be told by Rhaenys that Aemon had already flown here on Rhaegal's back and that Lord Tyrell wasn't being disrespectful.
"Highgarden is yours, your grace." Lord Harlan said and Aegon found himself keener to see what this keep had to offer than he had in others so far.
Rhaenys seemed to be enthralled by the beauty of Highgarden and her own eagerness to explore it was mayhap what fuelled Aegon's. Regardless, it was but two days that they stayed for and they were soon marching once more. This time they'd pass but one more keep before reaching Oldtown. They would hopefully meet up with Visenya and Aemon once there. Aegon looked forward to seeing Oldtown and the Hightower. As he did to meeting with the Faith and the Maesters. He looked forward to bringing them all in line and setting down a marker for the days, weeks, moons, and years to come. There was but one ruler in Westeros and one House above all. Not even the Faith or the gods themselves would speak against them by the time they were done.
Oldtown 1 BC.
Lord Manfred Hightower.
They were hawking when they spotted them in the sky above their heads. The sounds of their birds' panic alerted them to their presence. Manfred, Addam, and his youngest son Morgan all were left speechless by the sight of them. As even though they soared much higher than the hawks did, their size and color were still clear to see. The green one was much larger than the bronze and Manfred both wished he had a Myrish Eye with him and was glad he did not at the same time. To their relief, the dragons were flying away from rather than towards Oldtown. However, that did raise some other worries that he sought to quickly put to rest.
"We ride for the Hightower!" he shouted, a small fear that he'd arrive to find it in flames soon taking a hold of his heart.
Riding hard, they soon caught sight of the Hightower in the distance and Manfred let out the breath he was holding. The nearer they got to the gates of the city, the clearer it became that the dragons had simply flown over and mayhap landed, but they'd not loosed their flames once. Something that brought Manfred, his sons, and the men who rode with them all great comfort. In truth, he shouldn't be too worried about the dragons attacking without cause and he'd not yet, nor would he now, give them any reason to do so. The High Septon had given him the resolve he needed to negotiate rather than fight against Aegon Targaryen. So as his party entered through the gates, Manfred worried not that he may have missed a chance to do so.
Upon his return to the Hightower, he found he had very much not. The dragons had not landed and the more he began to think about it, the more he was certain that it had not been Aegon himself who'd passed over their heads. Balerion was not now known as the Black Dread for nothing, after all. Dismounting from his horse, Manfred bid his sons to join him and sent for his Captain of the guard. Before the day was done he'd have spoken to the most important men in the city, including a visit to the Starry Sept to see the High Septon. While for now the dragons may have only come and looked them over, they would no doubt be arriving for true soon enough.
"We have much we need to make ready," he said to Addam as he entered the Hightower itself.
For the next few days, Manfred spent as much time atop the Hightower as he did in his own chambers. After meals, first thing in the morning, and last thing at night, if you sought him out then it would be on the highest balcony that you'd find him. Eventually, his waiting paid off and he saw them once again. This time four of them flew over his head and all four had riders atop them. They flew low enough so he could make out the armor of the two clearly male figures on the black and green dragons. As well as he slimmer forms of the two women on the bronze and silver.
Once they'd flown over his head, Manfred resorted to looking for them through the Myrish Eye. He found no further sight of them that day and when he looked out the next, it was a sight that was just as imposing. How large the army was that marched towards Oldtown, Manfred knew not. Was it large enough to take the city if it wished to, mayhap? With dragons on its side, it certainly was. Hurrying back into the room and down the stairs, Manfred again called out for his sons and the Captain of his guard. It would take but a few hours for a parley to be called for and arranged and it was for the best if he began those preparations now.
By mid-afternoon, Manfred had assembled a large enough party to ride out and meet the approaching army. He rode with only one of his sons. Addam his heir was left behind in the event that the worst came to pass. There was more than one representative of the Faith who rode with him too. Though the High Septon seemed not too keen to be amongst them. Seeing the army as it neared them was as awe-inspiring as what he saw once they did. All four dragons now flew low enough to the ground that Manfred almost felt he could reach out and touch them. Or more worryingly, that any one of them could simply pluck him and his horse from the ground and carry them off to only the Seven knew where. They were riderless which Manfred wasn't certain was a good or bad thing. Though his attention was soon forced elsewhere once they'd flown out of sight.
Aegon Targaryen cut an imposing figure and his two sisters were as beautiful as some tales had named them. One wore a stunning set of riding clothes while the other was dressed as more befitted a lady. No, a queen, the voice in his head corrected him. The man who rode next to the lady dressed in riding clothes could only be this other Targaryen that the High Septon had told him about. The one who'd somehow become involved with one of Aegon's sister-wives. Looking at him, Manfred wouldn't name him a Targaryen by any means. His black hair marked him out more as kin to the black-haired man and woman who rode just behind Aegon and the others. Taking a deep breath, Manfred moved his horse forward and made his introduction.
"My name is Lord Manfred Hightower, Oldtown is yours, your grace," he said with a deep bow of his head.
"I thank you for the welcome, Lord Hightower," Aegon replied, half smirking.
"You will accept Guest Right, your grace?" Garmon his second son asked and Manfred looked curiously at the Targaryens as he awaited their reply.
"Not the now, no," Aegon said and Manfred swore he was not the only one who shivered at the way the dark-haired Targaryen looked at them as he rubbed his hand through the white fur of what had to be the biggest dog that Manfred had ever seen before.
"Surely, your grace…"
"My king said, no, Lord Hightower. You would do well to listen when his grace speaks." the dark-haired Targaryen said and though Manfred bristled at his words, he did as he was bid.
"Forgive me, your grace," he said looking back to the king.
"There is naught to forgive, Lord Hightower. For now at least."
He felt that things were getting away from him. What should have been an easy welcoming and acceptance of the new order and rule was turning out to be anything but. When one of the Septons that rode with him moved forward with their horse to offer up their own welcome, Manfred and the others were shocked to see the white dog race forward. The Septon's horse reared up and the man atop it was quickly and jarringly thrown to the ground. Less than a moment later, the white dog moved to the prone man and forced him to scurry along the ground in fright.
"Ghost to me." the dark-haired Targaryen said and the white dog briefly turned its red eyes towards Manfred before it moved back to stand between the man who'd called for it and the Targaryen queen who wore the riding britches. The woman he was now sure was Visenya Targaryen.
"Mayhap you can show us what this fine city has to offer, Lord Hightower?" the other Targaryen queen, Rhaenys he would wager, said. She, however, wore a friendly smile on her face that was not present on any of the others.
"I would be delighted to, your grace. We arranged chambers in the Hightower for any who wish it."
"Excellent, Lord Hightower." Aegon said offering a less effusive smile but a smile all the same before he then turned to the dark-haired Targaryen and spoke to him "Aemon, would you see to the men?"
"At once, your grace." Aemon, the Prince? Lord? Whatever rank he held amongst House Targaryen, it was one that Manfred knew not but was keen to find out more about.
Aemon, and to Manfred's surprise, Visenya, moved their horses and bid the men to follow. While Aegon and Rhaenys along with the other dark-haired man and woman moved closer to Manfred and his party. All in all, a little over a hundred men at arms rode in with the King and his Queen. As they neared the gates of Oldtown, Manfred was once again presented with the sight of two dragons flying in the sky. This time it was the sliver and the Black Dread himself and though they showed no signs of aggression, their meaning was clear. Harm those with you and Oldtown would burn. It was a message that had no need to be sent but one that Manfred took note of regardless. As he did the fact that the words that the High Septon had spoken to him seemed even truer now. Aegon was no longer a man with two wives. Which meant that he now had a chance to be so once again. The smile that Manfred wore as he rode through Oldtown was a true one as he imagined Alerie sitting atop a horse or even a dragon while she rode next to her husband, the king.
Oldtown 1 BC.
Orys.
Marriage had never been something he'd sought nor had the thought of it appealed to him. Orys liked women and had lain with many over the years, but he liked his freedom too. While he'd seen with his brother by choice some moments that he too would have liked to have known, he'd not longed for them. So the idea of a wife had remained just that. Until he'd first seen Argella, mayhap the second time he'd seen her. Or mayhap it was the third, he thought as he watched her climb naked out of their shared bed.
His wife was spirited, determined, and quite pleasing to the eye. Their initial hesitancy and discomfort at the situation that had brought them together was now a thing of the past. The two moons or more he'd spent with her in Storms End was more than enough to move away from the past and look to the future. So much so that when the raven arrived asking him to set sail for Oldtown, Orys had been overjoyed when Argella requested to sail with him.
There had been some nervousness on his part when he'd met up with Aegon and Rhaenys. A small doubt that Aegon may not see what Orys did in Argella or that Rhaenys may not be as welcoming to her as she had been after the Last Storm. He'd worried too how Visenya and Aemon may look at Argella. Aemon especially, given that this was the true forming of House Baratheon and the start of the line that had led to so many deaths in the future. In the end, he'd had naught to fear about the first pair of Targaryens, and when they finally joined up with the second, even less.
"You are happy, Orys?" Visenya asked as she came upon him walking the camps alone, Orys checking their defenses while Visenya had taken a stroll with Ghost for some reason.
"I am. I'd not expected it, but she is…"
"I am most glad to hear it."
"And you?"
"Blissfully so."
"Aemon does he…. Argella and I…"
"My husband seeks us to know love, Orys. As much as I believe he seeks our House to grow strong, he seeks that for us too. He will be most happy to know that you have found your own."
Visenya's words had proven to be true soon enough. Aemon showed no signs of being against his marriage and if anything he seemed more focused on his own. Orys had been somewhat surprised it had taken place so quickly and he had been glad of the time he and Argella had traveled alone with Aegon and Rhaenys so he could wrap his head around the new dynamics. Aemon and Visenya were Wardens of the Trident, lord, and lady of Harrenhal, and a prince and Princess of House Targaryen. Visenya had found in Aemon what Orys had in Argella and Orys could or would begrudge them it not.
It had been just before they reached Oldtown itself that they'd been joined by Visenya and Aemon. The green and bronze dragons had flown toward them from the direction of the city and landed some distance in front of them. The tale Aemon told of how Visenya had brought the Vale to their side was one that was spoken as proudly as any he'd ever heard. Whatever doubt anyone could ever have that the feelings between them were true would be quickly removed just by listening and looking at Aemon as he spoke of his wife.
"With words and not even the unsheathing of a single sword, I tell you true," Aemon said proudly.
The West and Reach too had been defeated and swore their allegiance to the new king and queen. Orys brought the Stormlands while the North, Riverlands, and Vale had all now knelt. It left them few battles and fewer enemies and yet their work was far from done. Dorne would be a true war and one that he would play an even larger role in than he had thus far. The Iron Born may have been driven from the mainland but their islands couldn't remain independent for long. Yet by all accounts, it was the Faith and the Maesters that needed to be dealt with and dealt with quickly. They and the Lord of the Hightower whose keep they were presently residing in.
Orys rose from his bed and let the coolness of the morning air wash over his naked body. He was in mid-stretch when Argella walked back into the room. His wife was already dressed and ready for the day ahead while he was anything but.
"I doubt the High Septon will welcome seeing you with your member hanging out, husband. Mayhap you could hurry with your dressing, hmmm?"
"My wife wishes me covered?" he japed as he moved forward, Argella slapping his chest and laughing as she moved away.
"For now she would."
Moving forward even more quickly, Orys grabbed Argella and placed a kiss on her rosy red lips. A far shorter kiss than the one he wished to. He most enjoyed her playfulness first thing in the morn. How she'd wake and jape or laugh before starting the day for true. It relaxed him greatly and even had he a night where he'd not slept well, though they were fewer since he'd wed, his mood would be greatly improved by the time he dressed.
"Very well, I'll dress then if I must." he sighed over elaborately.
"You must, you must. Otherwise, Lord Hightower may try and foist one of his daughters on you as well." Argella said, slightly hesitantly.
"Then the man would truly be fucked for 'tis only my wife who'll see me thus."
"Good." Argella smiled.
Orys dressed and they then made their way to break their fast. His thoughts were on Manfred Hightower and the foolish way he'd tried to get Aegon to wed once more. The girl was a beauty, no doubt, too young and far from worldly, but a beauty. She was not, nor would she ever be a queen, however. Aegon had wed Visenya because it was what his father wished, not out of any great love for his sister. He'd wed Rhaenys because of his heart and now that it was but the two of them, his brother by choice would not share his heart with another.
Who it would be who finally explained that to Manfred Hightower, Orys knew not. Yet he smiled at the thought of it being done. A smile that was noticed by his wife as they entered the room they'd break their fast in.
"Something amuses you, husband?"
"Lord Hightower," he said to his wife's raised eyebrow.
"For why?"
"I was wondering who would make it clearest of all that Aegon would not be taking his daughter to be his wife. Aegon mayhap? Aemon?" he said, smiling still, Argella though shook her head at his words.
"Rhaenys, my love. Do you truly know so little about women?"
"I know my wife, what more do I need to know?"
"Good answer," Argella said as she kissed his cheek and they took their seats.
Aegon and Rhaenys were already present and Visenya then arrived alone except for Ghost. When Aegon asked where Aemon was, Orys listened just as keenly to Visenya's reply.
"The Citadel. Aemon wishes to see if it is how he remembers it."
"You didn't wish to join him, sister?" Rhaenys asked to a shake from Visenya's head.
"Today is just a visit. Aemon wishes to see if it's as he remembered. Besides, he has promised that we'd visit it together once it's been brought to heel." Visenya chuckled.
"Thank the gods, it's much too early in the day to burn things." Aegon japed.
Orys found he enjoyed this just as much as anything. These moments were they were almost a family united. The calm before the inevitable storms to come, or so he liked to think of them. For a storm was about to hit Oldtown and once it had passed, things would be very much different than they were before its arrival.
The Citadel 1 BC.
Martyn Rivers.
Martyn was but six and ten. He was tall for his age and broad of shoulders. His hair was shoulder length, a dark brown, and his eyes were as dark as the night sky. He'd been sent by his father to try and curry favor with the new prince and princess. Though for some time had found no real chance to do so. Prince Aemon and Princess Visenya had flown on their dragons and so Martyn had been forced to march with some other of the Riverlords' representatives when King Aegon marched to Oldtown. During the march, he'd found no opportunity to get anywhere near the king either. Being a bastard son of a Riverlord didn't really allow him much leave to do so.
Even when Prince Aemon and Princess Visenya had returned as they neared Oldtown, he'd expected much the same. Only for a night's prayer to change things completely. Martyn had been walking alone and had sought out the Weirwood that some of the Reachmen said grew not too far from where they were camped. When he'd found it, he was stunned to find he was not the only one to do so, and then he'd almost soiled himself when the white wolf had come up on him from behind.
"I bear no threat. Please, my prince, your wolf, call him off me," he called out in panic.
"Ghost means you no harm, young man. If he wished it, you'd know so by now. Let him close by and hold out your hand. I promise you, you've naught to fear from him. For now at least."
Martyn did as he was bid, his hand shaking as the white wolf moved toward it. In his head, he saw himself losing his hand and he thanked the old gods that he'd moved his offhand forward and not his sword hand. The bite he expected never came, however. Instead, the white wolf licked his hand and Martyn chuckled at the sensation.
"What brings you here, lad?" Prince Aemon asked once Martyn had relaxed a little.
"I heard tell of a weirwood, my prince. I came to pray."
"You worship the Old Gods?" the prince asked as the white wolf moved to join him.
"I do, my father does too."
"Your father?"
"Lord Blackwood, my prince. I'm his bastard son."
His words seemed to soften the prince's features. The look he was now given was one he recognized not and he half turned expecting to be dismissed.
"Are you a decent blade, young man?" Prince Aemon asked.
"I believe so, my prince."
"Very well. Come to my tent on the morrow, I'm in need of a good sparring partner."
"I…Of course, my prince." Martyn stuttered
"Your name?"
"Martyn, my prince, Martyn Rivers."
"Early Martyn, I rise early."
He'd been left alone to pray and the next morning he'd risen early and hurried to the prince and princess's tent before breaking his fast. As he'd said, Prince Aemon was an early riser, and no more than a few moments after he'd arrived, Martyn was walking beside the prince and the white wolf to some open ground. The spar itself was an embarrassment. Martyn lost his sword within moments and yet not once did the prince scowl or berate him for doing so. Instead, he'd simply bid him to take his sword in his hand again and they then began to spar once more.
After an hour or so, Martyn was stunned when the prince poured him a mug of water while he took one for himself. A moment after he'd drunk it down, he was shocked when the prince started to give him some pointers and told him that he had some talent. Martyn had expected it to be simply that. That this was to be a once-off thing and while he'd enjoyed it immensely, he felt a little saddened by that thought. It turned out to be a mistaken one as not only had the prince bid him join him again on the morrow, but after three days sparring, he'd then made him an offer of a place within his service. Something that Martyn had accepted eagerly.
So here it was, less than a week after he'd first crossed blades with Prince Aemon and he was now acting as a guard of sorts. That he was the only one should give him more pause and even more pride. Yet in truth, his blade wasn't needed to offer up any true protection. If anything he was almost serving more as a squire than anything else and the prince was not shy in speaking words of wisdom to him and offering him pointers that would serve him well in the future. As they reached the Citadel, Prince Aemon and Ghost both stopped and Martyn readied for yet another lesson to be imparted to him. He'd come to recognize some of the signs. Prince Aemon would stiffen slightly, he'd seem to be even more aware of his surroundings and then he'd speak so softly that only Martyn and the white wolf would hear him.
"These are dangerous men we will meet, Martyn. Keep your eyes and ears open and if you're bid to give an opinion, make it as foolish and stupid one as you can."
"My prince?"
"When facing a man who thinks himself your better in the yard, you allow him to believe it's so right up until you take the victory from him. Here, in this place, the battles are fought not with swords but words, and yet the principle remains the same."
"I can appear stupid, my prince," he said and he was happy to see the slight smirk that appeared briefly on Prince Aemon's face at his words.
"Be sure it's only an appearance, Martyn."
Martyn chuckled at that and then schooled his features when Prince Aemon looked at him with a more serious expression on his face. They walked in through the large doors and into a large open room with a raised covered platform and a man sitting behind it. At the sight of them, the man rose to his feet and readied to tell them to leave. Only to hold his tongue when he realized just exactly who it was that was in front of him.
"My prince, you honor us." the man said, and even Martyn could see through the lie.
"Indeed. I'm here to see the Seneschal and some of the Archmaesters."
"I…We were not….At once, my prince." The man called for another man and readied to tell him to fetch those that Prince Aemon wished to speak to. Only for the prince to stop him in his tracks.
"Your assistant can show us the way, I'd much like to tour the Citadel itself while here."
There was silence as the man tried to judge if he could refuse the request. Ghost, who Martyn hadn't noticed had been sitting by Prince Aemon's side, rose to his feet and whatever words were about to be spoken, were quickly changed.
"Of course, my prince."
While Martyn sought out any threat, despite knowing Prince Aemon was in no danger, the prince's eyes took everywhere and everything in as they walked. He seemed to recognize this place as if he'd been here before, and yet as far as Martyn knew, this was his first time in the Citadel. They'd not gone too far when a group of men hurried their way. Their robes were grey and most wore large chains. Two or three of them bore rods and though most were older men, those rods could still be used as weapons. So Martyn moved his hand to his sword only for Prince Aemon to shake his head.
"My prince, I am Archmaester Olidar. On behalf of the Citadel we welcome you most truly." the oldest of the men said.
"I thank you for it, Archmaester. Your companions?"
"Archmaesters Lyonce and Gawen."
"A pleasure to meet you all." Prince Aemon said, though Martyn knew his tone of voice enough to know he meant it not "Long have I wished to see the Citadel, Archmaester. Mayhap you could give me a tour?"
"Is that a Direwolf?" a voice called out from behind them and a middle-aged bald man moved towards them, his robe slightly darker than those of the other Archmaesters and Maesters.
"Ghost is a Direwolf, aye."
"Outstanding. Forgive me, my prince, Seneschal Aurell, it's a true honor to meet you, and here especially. Mayhap you'd welcome my company on your tour of our humble home?"
"Lead the way, Seneschal."
Martyn walked behind the prince with Ghost walking to his side as they strolled through the many different chambers in the Citadel. He caught the glance the prince gave to the large iron gates that were locked and seemed to lead off into the darkness. As for the conversation, he tried to keep up, truly he did, but it was beyond him. Either the prince was one of the most learned men Martyn had ever met or he was a true mummer. Whichever it was, his words seemed to please the man who walked with them greatly.
They were offered to join the man in his midday meal and the prince accepted. Martyn, hungry though he was, did not sit to eat and only actually ate something because the prince insisted. He did so standing and with his eyes on as many of the Archmaesters, Maester, and acolytes that he could. In his mind, he took note of those who looked at the prince curiously or eagerly. As well as those who showed disdain or seemed annoyed by his presence. There were far too many of the latter for Martyn's liking and he resolved to speak to the prince about it later.
Eventually, their visit to the Citadel had come to an end and after what seemed to be some platitudes, some of which were truer than others, they left. They were some distance away from it when Prince Aemon spoke and asked him his impressions.
"There were some there who were genuinely pleased with your visit, my prince. Some however were very much not."
"You took note of those who were not?" Prince Aemon asked.
"As well as I could, my prince," he said, worried he'd not done enough.
"Good lad. I wished you to see it more than to truly be my eyes and ears. I have mine own and they are more trained than yours, for now at least." Prince Aemon said almost japing and Martyn felt his heart race at the thought that anything he could do in the future could be a match for things the prince could now "What make you of the Seneschal?"
"He seemed most pleased to see you there, my prince. Most happy to have you visit."
"The man is a snake, Martyn. Never trust what a man says with his words unless he's a man who has already earned your trust. If he's not, then look only at his eyes."
"I will, my prince."
"Good lad. Now come, that food was fucking horrible, you're lucky you ate so little of it. Join me in mine own meal."
"I'd be honored, my prince."
"See, your words and eyes match." Aemon japed and Martyn was still chuckling when they reached the Hightower.
By week's end, he was newly armed and armored. A sword that had been gifted to him by Princess Visenya herself as she told him if he was to guard her husband's back, then she'd see he was outfitted for the task. The two dragons and white wolf sigil he wore was one he wore proudly. While the fact that he was the first one to do so, was not lost on him. Nor was the honor of sparring daily with Prince Aemon. Or in listening to him as he spoke words to him that he spoke to no other. His father may have sent him to get closer to the prince and princess so as to serve their House well in the future, Martyn however, had found his own reasons for why he wished to do so. For never mind their House, his own future was now one that had been secured far more than his father had ever made it so. For that, he was, and would be, eternally grateful.
Oldtown 1 BC.
Aemon.
Aemon had split his time between his wife, planning the Dornish campaign, training young Martyn Rivers, and readying to deal with the three main pillars of this city. He'd seen something in the young Riverlands lad or to be more precise, through Ghost he'd felt something. This lad could be trusted and truth be told, he missed having people other than family around him. Orys and he were on much friendlier terms and yet they'd never be true friends.
Others that he'd meet, know and share time with, would be looking out for their own interests and seeking some favor of sorts. While he knew that Martyn had most likely been sent here by his father for that very reason, there was more to the young lad than simply that. Mayhap it was that he was a bastard? Or that he worshipped the Old Gods? Or mayhap it was simply that Aemon missed the freedom of speaking his mind and seeking out an opinion or conversation like those he'd once known. Mayhap it was simply that he missed, Tormund and Jaime, or Ned Dayne and Eddison Tollet.
Or Robb. he thought sadly.
Whatever the reason, he'd taken the young man under his wing and he'd in time teach him as much as he could. His wife approved and japed with him about it. Though his response that in time she'd need to take ladies into her service did quieten her some. Still, Aemon enjoyed the morning spars and the lessons he imparted. He welcomed having the young man at his back and it made him more resolved to seek out more young men like him. More men who sought out more from their lives than they had and none sought it more than bastards did.
"Aemon's Bastard Boys," he whispered as he dressed.
Today would be a big day, though the Faith and their fool of a High Septon knew it not. Nor did the Citadel. The change was coming and that change was going to be a big one. The first of them had truly come the night before at the dinner they'd held for the High Septon and the Seneschal and where Lord Manfred Hightower's desires for a daughter of his to be named queen were firmly shut down. Aemon hadn't even needed to get involved in doing so. Rhaenys took the lead and made it very clear that never again would she share her husband with any other woman. That she left open the possibility that in the future their children could be matched with children from some of the other Great Houses had quietened down any true dissent. Though Lord Manfred had stewed for some time until Aegon took him out onto the balcony when the dinner was ended. Aemon had no need to be there to know what words had been spoken. Nor what threats were implied.
Walking out of his room, he smiled to see young Martyn already waiting, and with a nod of his head, he bid the young man to follow. At the Starry Sept, Visenya would speak the words that would bring the Faith to heel. Though they'd not be spoken until after Aegon and Rhaenys were crowned. First things first, however, it was time to put the Citadel and the Maesters in their place. Time to show them that dragons ruled here now and that all their outdated ideas were no longer ones that were acceptable in the new Kingdom that they had forged.
"The men are ready, Martyn?" Aemon asked.
"They are, my prince."
"And you?"
"Nervous."
"Why? It's just a dragon." he japed and almost reached over to muss the young man's hair. Though given Martyn was indeed a young man and not a boy, he did not.
The horses awaited them outside the Hightower and they mounted up and rode away quickly. Aemon was unsurprised to find Rhaegal awaiting them just outside the walls and was almost off his horse's back before it had come to a full halt. Once he reached Rhaegal, he leaned his head against the green dragon's own and closed his eyes. There was no need to show him what it was he wished of him. Nor to tell him they'd have a passenger with them for the first part of the flight.
"Come, you can touch him, he'll let you when you're with me," Aemon said to Martyn, wanting the lad to be less fearful than he seemed to be.
Reluctant though it may have been, Martyn did touch the green dragon's scales. Then a moment later, Aemon helped him up onto Rhaegal's back. Ghost climbed up easier than both of them and made himself comfortable.
"Hold onto the horn, I'll not fly fast."
The gasp of air that Martyn exhaled when Rhaegal took to the sky was one that Aemon felt right on the back of his neck. He wore no helm, though both he and Martyn were armed and armored. It took them no time at all to fly over the city and when he looked down at the Citadel, he bid Rhaegal land in what in his time had become known as the Scribe's Hearth. What it was known as in this time, Aemon knew or cared not. His men moved to join him the moment Rhaegal had landed. All in all, he had three hundred and though he needed them not, the message he was sending would be better served by having them with him.
"All is ready?" he asked, Daveth, a man that Orys had recommended personally.
"It is, my prince."
"Good, I seek no blood to be shed, unless it's necessary. These are not fighting men, they should offer little resistance and I doubt any are armed."
"The men are aware, my prince."
"Good, let's do this then."
There had been few people in the open space of Scribe's Hearth when Rhaegal had landed. Most if not all of Oldtown was gathered close to or at the Starry Sept for the coronation, just as Aemon had wished. So the sound of three hundred men moving as one seemed to echo around the empty courtyard. They entered the Citadel to a shocked look from the man upon the raised dais. The Gatekeeper's tongue was then stilled with a silent growl from Ghost.
Moving past him, his men were soon confronted by more shocked looks and some angered words. Though no attempt was made to stop them from rounding up the acolytes, masters, Archmaesters, and even the Seneschal himself.
"My prince, what is the meaning of this…this outrage?"
"I'm here to teach a lesson, Seneschal. Surely a man of learning such as yourself would welcome such?" Aemon said, to some chuckles from his men and Martyn's being the loudest of all.
"A lesson, my prince."
"Daveth," Aemon said nodding his head to the Stormlander.
Within the blink of an eye, every Archmaester was searched. Most of them wore their keys around their necks, while some had them hidden among a group of keys on their hips and some had them in some hidden pocket or another. Few if any of them didn't have them on their person and when they were laid out on the table in front of him, Aemon counted seven and twenty altogether.
"Seneschal if you will." Aemon said as he picked up one of the keys and he and Ghost moved forward "Martyn, Daveth, see that our guests are comfortable."
Aemon had seen the dawning horror on the Seneschal's face when the heavy black iron keys had been discovered and taken. That horror only grew when Aemon opened the gate that led to the chambers below. Motioning to Aurell to walk in front of him, Aemon allowed him to take a torch and stood out of its reach just in case the Seneschal was braver than he looked. When Aurell stopped at the first set of doors, Aemon shook his head and bid him to the next gate. It took them some time to reach the third of them and Aemon himself moved forward to open the door that they eventually reached.
Marwyn had told him of this place. The Mage had brought him here when he'd asked. With the dead on the march, even the Citadel had eventually given up its secrets. Now as he moved forward to pick up the book, he looked around to see if there were any others he wished for. They were some that were as old as time, but none that he wished for or needed as much as this one.
"How did you know?" Aurell asked and Aemon refused to answer, yet.
They walked out of the room and back up the stairs. The relief on the faces of firstly Martyn and his men and then the men of the Citadel as they saw they were both unharmed was clear to see. Holding the book so each of the men who'd had access to it could see it, Aemon bid Aurell to join them.
"You've seen just how easy it is for my men to take you all. As you have that your secrets are well known to me. You are now faced with one choice and one choice only. Change or die. From this moment on, the Citadel and the Crown work as one. House Targaryen is who you answer to just as much as you do your search for knowledge. A search that is now open to one and all. For just as Aegon and Rhaenys rule as one or my wife and I are equally in charge of the lands that are pledged to us, so too is the Citadel to be equal when it comes to the search for knowledge." Aemon allowed his words to be heard and digested.
Looking around the room, he saw the same faces that he had when he and Martyn had visited were all looking at him with hate in their eyes. Turning to Martyn, he gave the signal. Then as one, his men moved to each and every single man who wished him dead. Knives were taken and placed at their necks and the order was on the tip of his tongue. Yet it was not one he gave.
"I see you all, know you all, and with but one word from my lips, I could end you all. I give you but one chance, change or die.
By order of their graces King Aegon and Queen Rhaenys, from this day forth, both men and women are to be accepted into the Citadel equally. A refusal to accept this decree will lead to my return. It will not end well for you should I be forced to do so. I can end you all just like that." Aemon said clicking his fingers "Dragons do not forgive nor do they forget, remember that well and this is the last time you and I ever need to meet. Remember it not and I will see you, these books that you care so much about, and this entire building in flames."
"We will comply, my prince," Aurell said.
"Good, because I will be ever watchful."
With that, Aemon, Martyn, Daveth, and their men walked out of the Citadel and made their way to the Starry Sept. They arrived not long after the coronation itself and just in time to see Visenya step forward.
"We are the guardians of the Faith." Visenya said "Their graces will do all in their power to protect all men and women of faith." she added to loud cheers "Every Faith."
Aemon looked on as the High Septon moved to step forward, the sounds of Rhaegal, Vhagar, Meraxes, and Balerion's roars stopping him from doing so.
"My husband Prince Aemon and I were wed in the sight of the Old Gods. All who follow such gods are welcome not only on our own lands but on all the lands of Westeros. As too are those who follow the Drowned God, the Red God, or the Pantheon of Valyria. All faiths are equal in the eyes of the Dragons. All are welcome and all are accepted in the kingdoms my brother and sister rule over. We are guardians of the Faith. However, we are not now nor shall we ever be subservient to it.
A dragon is not a slave. Not to man nor god. So we stand with all those of Faith and any who stand against us for doing so, will know naught but Fire and Blood." Visenya said as, in the sky above them, four dragons loosed their flames as one. The sight was a wondrous one even in the light of day.
No more words were spoken, not one person stepped forward to call Visenya out for her actions and by the time the High Septon arrived back at the Starry Sept, it was to find Aemon and his three hundred waiting for him. The speech he gave them was almost the same as Visenya's, however with one extra caveat. While his wife, Aegon, Rhaenys, Orys, and Argella celebrated, Aemon Rhaegal took a much longer flight. Like earlier, Ghost was with them and they had a passenger. Though, unlike Martyn, the Ugly One was not pleasant company.
Aemon flew him to the Field of Fire and then on to Harrenhal. Through it all, he whispered the words of his House along with some other well-chosen words. The Ugly One shook like a babe as Aemon spoke to him. He listened as Aemon promised to see every Sept in flames. To round up every single Septa and see them give to men who'd ruin them and to hand over every Septon to men who'd see them unmanned, were all listened to. While occasionally at his command, Rhaegal would let loose his flames in the sky. Once too on the Aurochs, that they flew over. Eventually, they arrived back at Oldtown and he had to help the Ugly One down off Rhaegal's back. To the man's credit, he didn't soil himself and while he stood on shaky legs, he was at least able to stand.
"I seek not the end of Faith, High Septon. Though you know it not, my House is the truest friend the Faith will ever know. Under our rule, you'll grow your ranks and increase your power more than you've ever dreamed. Yet it will always be under our rule. The House of the Dragon stands above all, High Septon. Just as we've seen the so-called Kings of Westeros brought to their knees, so too will the Faith and everyone else kneel before us. Yet have we not helped those kings rise once again? Have we not shown ourselves as the benefactors we truly are? King Aegon and Queen Rhaenys are your truest friends, High Septon. Do not make me your truest enemy. Trust me, there is no end to how far I'll go if you make it so."
Aemon had the man escorted back to the Starry Sept as he then made his way to the Hightower. He arrived to find Aegon, Rhaenys, Orys, and Visenya all up and awake. Lady Argella too, and he was somewhat surprised to find her at the meeting they held and yet not at the same time.
"Well?" Aegon asked.
"He listened. At some point, he'll either send a true believer to end me or he'll accept the words as they were meant and see the benefit in doing as he's bid." Aemon said as Visenya frowned.
"And the Citadel?" Rhaenys asked.
"I took their most dangerous weapon and used it against them. From today they'll allow women into their ranks, should they not, then they'll have no ranks."
"You got the book?" Visenya asked and Aemon reached into his shirt and took it out, handing it over to his wife.
"You don't worry about them trying something against you?" Lady Argella asked.
"People and things which are not, have tried to kill me for some time, my lady. I doubt it'll be a man of Faith or one of learning who'll manage it in the end," he said, looking to Visenya and seeing her relax somewhat as she then turned her full attention to the book in her hand.
"And so it's Dorne?" Orys said.
"Aye."
"Your plan?" Aegon asked.
"Fire and Blood, your grace."
"Fire and Blood, Aemon," Aegon replied, his smile a true one as Aemon took a seat and spoke more truly on the plans for the invasion of Dorne.
A/N: Thanks to all who've read and reviewed. Up Next: Up Next, Visenya and Aemon visit the Citadel before the dragons leave Oldtown behind and set their sights on the Iron Island before they turn their attention fully to Dorne. In the North, Brandon and Jojen travel to the Wall and Beyond. While in Dorne, a Princess makes plans to defend her country though underestimates the enemy she faces.
For those following my other fics, Revenge is a Dish and Dragonverse are up next.
Missed review:
Alsdjhfgljkwebgh. Have you ever had an argument where one person takes up the wrong end of the stick and because of their anger they misconstrue what is being said? That's what happened with Aegon. He was already predisposed to not be too friendly towards Aemon because he could see how Visenya was looking at him and then he listens as a man he knows not tells him that in the future, the House set up by his Brother by Choice will turn on his own. So he reacts angrily and rather than argue with Aemon about Robert Baratheon, a name he knows not, he argues about Orys, who in essence, Aemon is naming as a future traitor, in his mind.
Once he's taken the wrong end of the stick, it takes calmer heads to prevail and explain that's not what's being said. Sometimes that's how arguments go. If that seems dumb to you, then so be it.
Chapter 11 Reviews.
Vulcran: Trade will be a method used to bring Dorne to heel.
DarylDixon: First the threat, next let's see how they deal with the offer that was made.
Guest: Yes I did, I fixed it up since then, thanks for pointing it out. We'll see more reactions to the wedding once things calm somewhat.
SYARHIA: Yes, I fixed it.
Biohazard: So glad you liked it.
Fluppyghost: Aemon has big plans for changes North of the Wall, and not bringing in the Free Folk wouldn't make sense with his character. Hopefully, it'll work.
Xan Merrick: Sam Beckett is a decent analogy. Jon believes that he's to die in this timeline, which is why, along with how he felt about her, he was happy enough to get involved with Visenya. If he thought he was going home, he never would have. So no, he has no idea that this is but the first jump in time.
Literary Escapism: Thanks so much for saying so, I'm so glad you're liking my stories.
Froggy Slice: I'm so glad you thought so. Hopefully, the ripples from here will show it even more clearly. The Starks will in time be in a far better position than they were in canon and even that they ever would have been with Torrhen remaining as king. His words and plans will be the catalyst for huge growth for them and force them to do things they'd not have done without his intervention.
Rhatch: So glad you liked it.
Syrius: I was happy that the dragon name was all I got wrong lol. I fixed it, but thanks for pointing it out. Yes, that's exactly what I wanted with the Starks, they are kin, and other than the kneeling, which they did without Jon's help the first time around, and did so here only to come out better for it, the boons they'll get from his arrival will play out over time. On the Raven, I hope he comes across how I've planned and a bit like House Reed, TER will be recurring characters who'll have something to add each time jump that Jon makes.
Irish Hermit; I also think with Olenna that there is an element of self-preservation involved. She understands that as the only ones with non-royal blood in their lineage it allows others in the Reach to wish for them to be replaced. I mean had Stannis won, for example, then House Tyrell would be removed and replaced with House Florent, Stannis' wife's House. Olenna is well aware of things such as that. Then there is also the simple fact that every daughter of a Great House has almost a requirement to be wed to the highest-ranked husband that is available and usually every mother, and father, aims for that. Tywin sought it with Cersei, and Cat too sought it with Sansa, as did her father with her, so to want Margaery to be queen is not inherently a bad thing. Doran, however, wants it all. Even in his canon plan, he seeks both Targaryens in marriage, not just one, which shows a level of grasping that's far higher.
People say I give the Tyrells too much respect when in truth all I see is that they play the game and are open about it. The same people who criticize them have no problem with what Hoster did, which amazes me. But anyway, the first aspect that Jon will ensure doesn't happen, or try to, is to remove the threat to Rhaenys and Meraxes, then he'll work on the other threats.
Dunk: So with the High Septon and Manfred, I sort of had it off-screen for time reasons, but I will be showing it in the appropriate povs upcoming, a High Septon pov and a Rhaenys one that showed exactly how she cowed Lord Hightower. Aemon will certainly be aiming to increase the influence of the Old Gods, his plaiting of a Weirwood tree on Visenya's hill being just one example of it. As he will with Bastards too. Oh, Brandon may find a woman alright lol. I have planned out the changes and as I said before, the first jump will show how I intend to incorporate them, hopefully. Honestly, you should see the documents I have that cover each period with plots, ripples, and lines both open and closed in them, it's the most work I've done in a story that wasn't the actual writing of it lol.
Lunus: I can't say outright as it would be far too spoilery. What I can say is this. Each book will both be self-contained and yet work far better as part of the whole. So things that happen here, will affect things later on. With Jon himself, he'll age in each time he's in, but revert to the same age he was at the beginning with each jump. On the succession rules, yes, Jon is and between the conversation he had with Aegon, Rhaenys, and Visenya about the Dance and other aspects of future Targ rules, and way back earlier in the story, for example, he's already told them that it needs to be firstborn and not the first son to succeed. Now, how much of that plays out or is changed, we'll see. As just because Aegon sets out the succession lines, doesn't mean they are followed. Hell, his own sons didn't even do so. Jon is trying to minimize and maximize the butterfly effect. He's also trying to think so far ahead of things that he could miss certain things too.
So, again for example. He doesn't want to create a world where Margaery isn't born, where Robb and his siblings aren't born, and where Rhaenys and Aegon aren't born. While at the same time he wants the North to be stronger, the Dragons to be more plentiful, etc. It's a juggling act, can he achieve it, we'll see.
I'm sorry I'm being so vague on certain points. But the first jump is a huge spoiler and kind of sets the tone for all that's to come, to give away too much now would ruin it. However, once we get to the next book, the Dance timeline, all will be made very clear.
Orthankg: So glad you liked it.
Searthur: How so? She prepared Maegor to be a strong ruler and yes she encouraged him far too much, but Aenys was a weak leader who sought to please everyone and almost brought about their ruin. As for Visenya knowingly ruining the future of his siblings, perhaps you can explain how she knowingly ruined something she had no knowledge about?
Celexys: It can be dull reading of battles all the time or vice versa, reading of none. So it's nice to vary and there are some big battles to come, as well as more political maneuvering. We will see more and more little moments of Jon's back story too.
BRiSha: Lo hizo, sí. Creo que la segunda vez fue él anulando a su madre.
Princess of Greenwood: Thanks so much, really glad you liked it.
Waka Wan: We'll see if there are any. The Conquest remember pretty much went without incident in canon. They lost Daemon Velaryon and the Targ Fleet at Gulltown and Rhaenys at Hellholt, but other than that, Westeros pretty much folded so it would obviously fold even quicker and easier with the addition of another Dragon and rider. Especially one that has some foreknowledge of events. However, the changes are really hitting home now, so we'll see.
Gabriela: Apunto a actualizaciones mensuales.
Lady Octarina: Very much so, she's the oldest and unlike with Rhaenys, she was a marriage of duty, not love. Originally I'd planned to have either just sexual tension between her and Aemon or maybe even just make it a fling, but it felt wrong, and going this way adds so much more. What I will say is that she and Margaery will be the only women he ever loves. So when he jumps through time, any other women he may be with will be a much different relationship.
So I hated the Aegon dreamed thing they did in HOTD, however, I do think a bit like you that there was more to the Conquest than simply a Conquest. Visenya was supposedly someone who delved into the dark arts, so if it was anyone I'd say it was her. One thing I've been playing around with here is sort of a chicken and an egg thing too. It's one thing that time travel fics allow. So a question you should ask yourself is how much of the events are simply because Aemon traveled back in time and how much that traveling back in time was always something that happened. An easy way to look at it is this, Was House Tyrell always going to be placed in charge of the Reach, or were they placed in charge only because Aemon went back in time? I know there was no Aemon in canon or n time travel lol, but here in this fic, it's a fun thought process.
The changes and how they impact things were what I first worked on here. I have a whole story's worth of plotting those changes out and how each little thing impacts the last. The first jump will show my plans completely, so you'll need to bear with me until then. As for when Aemon will arrive, it'll be at a key timeline event. So for example, in the dance, it'll be before Viserys would die. How that affects things, or what role Viserys may have due to the changes, we'll see.
Naida G: Lo siento, tomó más tiempo de lo que deseaba.
Creativo: Bueno, Jon no quiere que Elia deje de existir, por lo que aún es cuestionable hasta dónde llega.
Shieltor: Well Robert overthrowing the Targs is one of the things that Aemon is trying to make sure doesn't happen. As for Cat/Ned, Aemon is well aware that he's made a big change that sees that not happening, for now at least. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the reason it was Ned/Cat was it not to exist, then allows for a different path to Ned/Cat. So, for example. Cat was betrothed to Brandon because both were the children of Lord Paramounts. With the Tully's not being in the same position, that match is logically out, however, the match of a second son of the Warden of the North to the daughter of a large House such as House Tully, is very much not. So could Cat and Ned be matched naturally, without the need for Hoster to demand it or for Ned to stand in as a replacement for his brother? Or will Aemon actually do even more to ensure that when the time comes, Cat and Ned are wed. Given that the last thing he wants is to wipe his brothers and sisters from existence, I think we can surmise that he has a plan to ensure it comes to pass.