Rhaenys
"Here me again, free me," Rhaenys told him, her voice strained. "This is very unbefitting of a kingsguard to steal a princess away for another lord's tool against the crown." She hoped that he would heed reason if she talked to him like a calm sensible person instead of the raging banshee she wished she can be at this moment. Screaming his head off will not get me back to Harrenhall, she tried telling herself. I would very much love to do so. Who does this cunt think he is hitting me in the back of the head!
Loras scowled at the sound of her voice, nonetheless, he spurred his horse onward down the narrow path. "Be quiet, or I will gag you."
Rhaenys eased her breath and eased her voice. "Ser Loras, this is foolish. They will soon catch up to us long before we make It to Storm's end."
It had the opposite effect; Loras only dug hard in his spurs. "Then I will ride faster so they do not catch us. No one at Harrenhall can match my skill with a sword or horse," Loras boasted easily. "Their pursuit will only get them trees and dirt and a pack of wild wolves."
Jon snow can best you easily buffoon. "What would happen if they happened to catch us, even the slightest chance?" Rhaenys questioned. "You will be tried for treason. Your head will be brought with us on our return to Kingslanding and mounted on the spikes of the red keep. Think of your sister, Loras." Rhaenys would love to see the tears build in Tyrell's eyes, but she would love even more the chance to be free of this fuckery.
"Now you suddenly care for the wellbeing of my sister?" Loras asked with a voice full of scorn. "Miss me with that, princess. You and your family were taken unawares. With the princess being held captive, Renly will have the upper hand in the battles to come. With Tywin Lannister likely to match forces with his, the Targaryens are going to crumble under their combined might and succeed where Robert's rebellion failed."
I refuse to believe that. Or I'm too afraid to accept that. "Why do you do this? You are of the kingsguard? Why renounce your vows to the crown to aid the brother of the deceased traitor?"
"Renly is good and true," Loras said at once. "He is smart, good with lords and peasants, and he serves with a kind fist. Renly would be a fine king."
"You did not answer my question. Why do all of this? Just because he is kind and smart? No that's not it." Then the light lit like an oil lamp. "You love him."
Loras tensed, and the horse whined. "I love him as a brother yes. He's been fostered at Highgarden for many years."
"No, you love him as a man would love a woman. It is in your eyes, in your voice as you talk about him," Rhaenys said. What do I know of love? She didn't know. She just knew they were the right words to say. And I heard the rumors about you two.
Loras whipped around. "What would you know!" He erupted in a fit of fury. "You Targaryens are selfish! You all love naught but yourselves!"
Maybe this was the wrong approach. The man has the thinking process of a child. "I know naught," Rhaenys conceded, nodding her head. "But if you loved him as a brother then you will end this stupidity, return me to Harrenhall and send Renly a raven telling him to not raise his banners. The crown still has Dorne and the reach as its most steadfast allies. He would be crushed to bits, even with Tywin Lannister." Do I even believe that shit? The north and the Vale would very much love to join them. We will be fucked. What if Jon wasn't willing to save them again if the north was on the other side?
Loras fell into silence. Rhaenys can see him thinking and held her breath. There was only the whicker of the horse, the rustling of the bushes, and the soft cries of birds flying overhead.
Loras opened his mouth to say, "You will now be gagged."
"You cocksucker!" She screamed before Loras stuffed a piece of dirty cloth in her mouth. Her screams turned into muffled noises. You will rue this day, I promise! The flower can gag her mouth but not her thoughts. It was the nastiest of insults Rhaenys conjured up of the Tyrell as they rode deep into the woods.
The sun was replaced by the moon and the trees grew dark and twisted by the time they made the stop. Loras had a fire hot and blazing. He walked over and roughly tossed Rhaenys off the horse. "offmh," Rhaenys cried through the cloth in her mouth. That…hurt!
Loras smiled smugly at the look of her glare. He sat down on a rock but did not dare take off his armor. They are coming for you. They are coming to kill you, Rhaenys thought. It was the only thing keeping her peace. She thought of Jon. He has a direwolf and a dragon. He would find me quicker than anybody. But would he come? Of course, he's not. I'm the daughter of the man who is responsible for his aunt's death and the death of his father's best friend. And I'm not even sure he cares about me truly. She thought back on the times he avoided her. I'm just some woman who he knows he can have access to at any time he chooses. That pained her to think about. He doesn't care about me as I care for him. Every second that passes by with no sight of him hurt her more.
The sound of a powerful flap of wings filled the air, and suddenly, all the trees rustled in unison. A sharp gust of wind swept through the woods, sending a chill down Rhaenys's spine. The fire before her flickered wildly, as though struck by some invisible force, before righting itself. Something streaked through the sky above, its presence ominous and swift.
Loras sprang to his feet, his sword drawn and ready. "What was that?!" he demanded, but he didn't have to wait for an answer.
A figure emerged from the shadows of the trees, its slow, deliberate pace like that of a predator stalking its prey.
It's him… He really came. The princess knew immediately. Her heart began to beat in a way it hadn't in ages, the pain of the past vanishing, replaced by something foreign, something terrifying.
Loras leveled his sword at the approaching figure. "Who are you?"
The figure paused, his voice carrying a dangerous calm. "Does it matter?" he asked, before stepping into the flickering light of the fire.
Rhaenys's breath caught in her throat as she saw his lilac eyes, glowing with an eerie intensity in the firelight. The flames danced in them. His armor—dark as night—was unlike anything she had ever seen. Blood-red with black scales that shimmered as if alive, it was inscribed with strange, arcane glyphs that seemed to pulse in the fire's glow. Spikes adorned his forearms, and his belt was lined with glowing daggers and darts, each a weapon of mystic power. Yet, his armor was as light as a feather, fitting him like a second skin. Dark hair spilled over his shoulders, and in that moment, Jon looked not just like a dragonlord of old but the harbinger of a new age.
Loras gaped, momentarily stunned by the sight. He shook himself and sneered. "I know who you are. Jon Snow, the bastard of Eddard Stark."
"Aye," Jon replied, his voice low and unyielding.
Loras twirled his sword, a thin smile curling his lips. "Walk away now, bastard," he warned. "I will not say it again. The princess is coming with me to Storm's End."
Jon didn't flinch. His gaze locked on Rhaenys's, the air between them heavy with unspoken understanding. Then, without a hint of hesitation, Jon spoke again, his tone ice-cold. "I'm giving you a chance."
"It doesn't matter how many Blackfyres or Dothraki you've slain. You've never faced someone like me."
Before Loras could react, Jon was faster than the eye could follow. A dart flew from his hand, striking Loras with a swift graze along his cheek before embedding itself deep in the tree behind him with a sickening thud. Rhaenys blinked in shock as blood began to pour from Loras's wound, though the dart hadn't even struck deeply. It was a scratch, yet his blood flowed like it had been cleaved by a blade.
Loras staggered back, eyes wide with panic as he tried to stop the flow with his free hand, but it was futile.
Jon was already poised to throw another dart, his fingers wrapping around the next in line. Rhaenys's breath caught in her throat. Those weren't ordinary darts. They were edged with a sharpness no blade could match, and the glyphs etched into their steel glowed like fire itself.
"That was nothing," Jon's voice rang out, dismissive. Loras, now trembling, scowled, but Jon's words were unyielding. "I could have aimed for your neck, but I didn't. I want you to know how easy it is for me to end you right now. I'm the one giving chances here, my lord, more than you deserve." His fist clenched. "The Targaryens already have enough enemies. The Reach doesn't need to be one of them."
Loras, in a fit of frustration, spat, "Why are you with them? The North hates the Targaryens! You should be helping me bring her to Renly! What is she to you?"
Jon's eyes narrowed, his voice calm but firm. "She is my princess. And I intend to return her to safety." He paused, his words ringing clear in the still night. "We can end this with no bloodshed. Put down your sword, ser."
Rhaenys knew, even as she watched, that Loras would never listen. Her thoughts were confirmed when he snarled and began circling the fire, his sword raised and poised. Jon mirrored his movements, his armor rippling like shadows in the firelight, his focus unshakable. Rhaenys held her breath, every moment filled with tension. Loras was renowned for his skill with a sword, but Jon—Jon had become a legend in Essos. Still, fear gnawed at her, for even legends could fall.
The clash of steel rang through the night, a violent song. Sparks flew as their swords met, the heat of the flames mimicking the intensity of their fight. The trees stood silent witness to the battle between rose and wolf, between light and darkness. Loras's skill was evident, but Jon—Jon was a force of nature. With every strike, every counter, he drove Loras back. His sword, dark and smoky, rippled with power, slicing through the air with ease. Loras struggled to keep up, sweat beading on his brow as he fought to defend himself.
Jon moved like a storm, effortless in his precision, while Loras was a man trying to keep from being overwhelmed. The Tyrell knight grunted with effort, swinging wildly, but Jon was always one step ahead. It was only a matter of time before Jon's sword found Loras's weapon, knocking it from his hands with a swift, expert strike.
Loras, desperate now, closed the distance, attempting to grapple with Jon. But Jon met him with the strength of a beast. A headbutt sent Loras crashing to the dirt, his breath leaving him in a pained gasp.
Jon stood over him, eyes cold. "How does it feel? To be beaten by your own arrogance?"
Loras, stunned, struggled to his feet, his face contorted with rage and disbelief. "What sorcery do you use, bastard? Tell me!"
Jon's voice was like ice. "The sorcery I use to put you on your arse is called skill." He left his sword hanging at his side, his words final. "You're done."
Loras lunged for his dagger, raising it threateningly, but before he could strike, a terrifying crash echoed through the woods. The earth trembled beneath their feet, and an earth-shaking growl resonated through the air.
Rhaenys's heart skipped a beat as Cannibal's massive form emerged from the darkness, his emerald eyes glowing with hunger. The beast's growl was like a death sentence.
Loras froze, eyes wide with terror. The dagger slipped from his hand, his bravado crumbling as the black beast loomed closer.
Jon said, "I think I've won, my lord."
Loras could only gape at the creature, his mouth agape in terror. Jon patted the plate of his armor and turned toward Rhaenys. With a swift movement, he sliced through her ropes, freeing her. The gag was removed, and she stood, her legs unsteady.
Jon gazed at her, waiting, his expression unreadable.
Rhaenys blinked, her mind a whirlwind of emotions. "You came," she whispered, her voice betraying the warmth flooding her chest.
Jon's lips curled into a small, knowing smile. "Was there ever a doubt?" he said softly. "A damsel in distress, after all."
"Yes," Rhaenys admitted, the words slipping out before she could stop them. "I thought you would never come." She smiled, the edge of her doubt slipping away.
Jon raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "You think so little of me?"
"I think highly enough of you to believe you would disappoint me," Rhaenys said. "I expected you to let me down somehow. As strange as that sounds."
Jon's smirk deepened. "So I've surpassed your expectations?" His voice was teasing, but there was warmth in his eyes.
"Don't let it go to your head," Rhaenys said with a huff, tossing her hair dramatically. "A princess still has many challenges for you to overcome."
Jon grinned. "We'll see. Your challenges don't frighten me."
Rhaenys's eyes lingered on him, a mischievous gleam in her gaze. "We'll see," she murmured, her heart racing.
Jon shook his head playfully. "In Westeros, it's customary to thank the man who rescues you."
Without a word, Rhaenys grabbed his face and kissed him, her lips pressing against his in a long, sweet kiss. When she finally pulled away, breathless, Jon stood there, stunned, his eyes wide with surprise and something darker—hunger.
Rhaenys smirked. "Thank you," she said, her voice dripping with satisfaction. "Not so cocky now, are we?"
Jon stared at her, his mouth slightly agape, but he didn't say a word. Instead, he turned back to Loras, still kneeling in the dirt, utterly defeated. His face a picture of shame and rage.
Meanwhile, Jon stood in front of Loras. He looked down upon his latest victim with his menacing blood-colored valyrian armor. "You saw no dragon," Jon told him. Rhaenys understood.
Loras snapped his gaze up to his. "H-how? It's r-right t-there!" His voice was shaky, and his finger was shaky as well when he pointed at the massive black form of Cannibal. "It's a monster!" He cowered when Cannibal growled.
"You saw no dragon, or it's your life," Jon said solemnly as Cannibal slowly opened his mouth, revealing bright green fire rising in his throat.
Jon
He was in a nightmare. He used the glass candles. Now they are getting what they want. To get, he must give. It made him revisit some of his worse memories which consisted of a bunch of scenes about a certain Greyjoy. He was back in Euron's Silence while being tortured and seeing the truth. "You must open your eyes, my prince," the reaver said joyfully before splitting Jon's back open to resemble an eye. A raven corked, poked at his head with no success, and flew away with disappointment. He then saw a version of himself. He was in his red valyrian armor, but he was crawling in blood. His valyrion sword was ablaze with pure red fire, and his eyes were of the bloodiest ruby gemstone. They were bodies around the pool of his boots, of all the people he cared about. Robb, Arya, Rhaenys, Eddard, Bran, Sansa, Rickon, and Tyrion, were all stabbed in the heart. "You must do what must be done," the distorted version of himself whispered.
"No," Jon whispered back, only in horror.
The heads of Aegon and Rhaegar rolled to a stop, with the many lords of Westeros behind them. "You must be king," the version said, voice getting louder. The enormous Cannibal crashed behind him, mouth and snout dripping with blood and guts.
"I don't want it." Jon shook his head. He wanted this nightmare to end.
"YOU MUST!" The version shouted with an impossible boom to his voice. Cannibal's roar cracked the air.
Then two eyes snapped open, sapphire gemstones of the most ominous blue and the iciest of winter. The dead bodies of his loved ones around the feet of the dark version of Jon slowly rose to their feet with cold dead limbs and cold blue eyes. Jon tried to scream, but his voice was frozen in his throat.
RHAENYS
It was in the hour of the wolf that Rhaenys was snatched from her sleep. She was resting on the slumbering Cannibal. Loras was down below fastened to a tree. He was also sleeping. What's that noise? Rhaenys asked irately, ever grumpy at having her beauty sleep interrupted. She then became aware of the trembling man across from her. Jon was twitching uncontrollably and muttering something beyond her capability of comprehending. There is something wrong with him. It was obvious. He's having a nightmare.
Her heart tore at him suffering in her sleep. She used one hand to gently shake him. "Jon, wake up." Her shaking did not help.
Oh well. Time to get violent. Don't be mad at me Jonny boy, Rhaenys thought and gave him a hard slap across the face. Jon jolted.
Then his hand whipped in the air and grabbed her throat in a vice-like grip. Rhaenys squealed in surprise and pain. He's choking me. His fingers dug into her skin, and she fought to breathe. Jon's eyes were wide and wild. And his breathing was labored and sharp. He seemed not to recognize her.
Rhaenys hit his arms. Even though he had thrown aside his armor, his muscles felt like stiff rocks. She could not break free. "Jon," she rasped out. "It's me, Rhaenys, the princess." She could see dots lining her vision. They slowly became bigger and bigger and threatened to overtake her whole.
"Rhaenys," Jon said slowly. His grip slackened. Realization began to dawn in his lilac eyes. Then he let her go completely.
Rhaenys gulped the sweet fresh air that was denying her just seconds ago. She rubbed her neck gently. How many times has he ended his enemies that way I wonder…. But I'm not his enemy. After gathering herself and founding her breath, she looked at Jon with hurt in her eyes. "You choked me."
Jon couldn't meet her eyes. He was still shaken up. "I'm sorry, Rhaenys. I didn't mean to."
"You almost killed me." She was positive. And those words hurt her more than she cared to admit. I'm supposed to be angry at this man, but I'm seeking consolation like a damn pup.
Jon's head was low and his voice lower. "I used something, something that is associated with the dark arts to find you. I'm already a dangerous man. The dark magic increases it tenfold."
Rhaenys always scoffed at the idea of magic. But there was a man right before her that brought dragons back into the world after decades. "Is this why you are the way you are? Is this why making you smile is like a blue moon?"
"It plays a part. I've fourteen years of my life as the bastard of Winterfell. I've been shamed and ridiculed by lady Stark and others who looked down upon me because of my station."
"Then you ran away to Essos." Rhaenys heard of it. Eddard Stark sent ravens to every corner of Westeros to find his bastard son. Years later, there was talk of the legendary acts of the white wolf, but at the same time horrendous things.
"Aye, and I have done horrible things I wish I hadn't done. But I wanted glory, you see? I did just that but it brought me a bunch of nightmares I dream of every night. I cannot give back the lives I took. Then I retired my services with a bounty on my head seen by no one ever before. When Tyrion Lannister approached me with the intention to hire me to sail to Old Valyria to find his uncle, I thought him crazed. But I wanted to do right for the blood I spilled, so I accepted. I knew that the whole might die, but it still didn't prepare me for the shit I have seen, the creatures that lurk there. A man, a madman, slaughtered the crew but spared me and Tyrion. He was a man obsessed with power beyond men. He taught me those arts but at the cost of me."
"He tortured me." Jon's voice wavered. "He abused me in a way nobody should be abused. Some part of me thought it was right, that it was a punishment from the gods for the deaths I sew. But that man was cruel and evil. He shouldn't ever walk the earth, for what he did to others and what he did to me. I am ashamed for using things that he used." He was fighting back tears, Rhaenys saw. I have never seen him this emotional. He was bottling all this up inside him. She can fill her insides crumble. Her heart went out to him. Rhaenys wanted to cuddle him in her arms, kiss him, and tell him things were different and everything is going to be ok.
"I see him in my dreams like he is still breathing. I look over my shoulder, expecting him to emerge and chain me to the bowels of his ship once more. There are times I fear I will end up just like him. In a lot of ways, I changed. I can see how my siblings look at me, wondering where the boy they grew up with has gone. They fear the look in my eyes that comes out of nowhere. They don't think I know, but I do know. I hate that. I hate me."
"Enough," Rhaenys spoke finally. She took him by the chin and looked him straight in the eyes, just like how her mother did to her when she felt down. "What's in the past, stays in the past. It's just how you handle yourself at the present, at this moment." She considered the scars that lined his hands, arms, and the one on his eye that gave him an intimidating appearance. Wars and tortures, Rhaenys thought sadly. I want to make you happy and make the burden go away. I will give you everything a princess can give. "You do not need to hate yourself, Jon." She kissed his cheek and held his eyes and did not blink. "I don't give a horse fuck what other people think. I, for one, think you are amazing." They looked at each other, energy crackling between them.
This time, it was Jon that pursued the feel of her lips.
Aegon
The king's party spilled through the gates with the color black and red. It was a strength of at least a hundred men plus free riders and sellswords. The banners of the three-headed dragon were ample and lavish.
Every lord in attendance stood watching the procedure of the king's arrival with Aegon and Lady Whent at the front, Arianne, Quentyn, and Oberyn right behind him. The air was thick with pressure one cannot simply let free. They sense the war coming, Aegon knew. Allegiance will be questioned. He took a long look at Jon Arryn's hard face, wondering if he would raise his banners for the stag once again. He then looked at the Starks, wondering if the wolf would snarl against the dragon once more.
Aegon took a deep breath. All will be well. I managed things as best as I could. Father will be understanding.
The remaining four kingsguard came first as scouts. Arthur Dayne, Gerold Hightower, Barristan Selmy, and Oswell Whent appeared on their horses with their white capes and snowy armor. Everyone in the courtyard kneeled in respect as king Rhaegar arrived on his black stallion with the crown upon his head. Jon Connington arrived a step behind and gave everyone a suspicious glance. Rhaegar's lilac eyes surveyed everyone carefully without giving anything away. He dismounted and stepped forward with a swirl of his black cape.
Rhaegar beckoned all of them to rise. They did, one by one, each having different expressions consisting of loathing or anxiousness. Rhaegar met their gazes steadily."Hard times are looking into our faces yet again my lords. Recent tragedies have crossed my attention." Rhaegar's gaze landed on the silent Kevan Lannister and moved away. "Stand with me, my lords, and I will guide us through this. Westeros will be united once more. As king, you all have my word."
Do they really believe it though? Aegon couldn't tell.
Rhaegar's gaze shifted over to the Starks, and they all held their breath. "Lord Stark is not here." It was more of a statement than a question.
"No, your grace," was all Robb said. The redhead's jaw was lined with tension. The royal carriage rolled to a stop in front of them. Dany is here, Aegon thought, his heart loud in his ears. He scowled at himself and pulled back into reality.
"Next time I suppose." Rhaegar ran his gaze over the throng of lords and stopped suddenly. "Where are lady Margaery and her brothers? Where is my daughter?" There was an edge in his voice at the latter.
The lords and ladies shifted on their feet and looked at each other awkwardly. Meanwhile, Oberyn said, "Your grace, it is highly vital for you to know the happenings in your own family, and most importantly, the ones in your very own kingsguard." His dark eyes held the everlasting scorn he had for the king, and his words were biting. Uncle has never forgiven father for the slights he has committed against mother, Aegon knew.
Rhaegar didn't trouble himself meeting Oberyn's eyes. "As you are not the king, you do not have the trouble worrying about the duties you do not have the burden of having, my lord."
"Aye, but it is a burden that you have that is felt by everyone else, your grace," Oberyn shot back. Here we go again, Aegon sighed. Next to him, Arianne was exasperated as well. Not in front of everyone, we have to appear united.
"Brother!" A joyous shot came from the carriage. Elia Martell emerged. She hugged Oberyn on the spot and kissed him on the cheek. "You have not changed one bit, nor has your waggling tongue," she said with a smile. Excellent, mother, stop him from talking.
It worked as Oberyn hugged her just as viciously. "And your beauty, dear sister, has not faded and should not be taken for granted." He shot a petty look at Rhaegar but said nothing further. The queen and king moved forward to greet Arianne and Quentyn and the sand snakes.
Aegon couldn't help the goofy grin on his face when Daenerys and her mother Rhaella stepped out of the carriage. The lovely face of Daenerys Targaryen surveyed the attendance, then shifted to face Aegon. He was delighted to see the brightness in her eyes and the upturn of her lip. So beautiful. You should've been mine, Aegon wished wistfully. There is still a way.
The snapping of fingers brutally snatched him from his daydream.
His father and mother now stood in front of him, staring at him. Everyone was staring at him.
Shit, what did they say? Aegon hoped he wasn't blushing. "Father, mother," he greeted, wanting to not appear as stupid as he thought he is.
"Aegon," Elia said slowly, "I asked where your sister is?"
It was the very question that kept Aegon up all night, cursing and weeping for failing to keep his big sister safe. They grow up together as children, and he let her get kidnapped. Aegon wanted to spill Tyrell blood. We don't know, Aegon wanted to yell out at her but didn't.
Aegon's mouth was dry. "My, father, it will be best to discuss it behind closed doors, by the warmth of a fire and far from prying ears." It would be no use, everyone knows. But Aegon shan't embarrass his family, him, in front of all the staring eyes. Not in front of Dany. At this moment, Daenerys stared at him with confused beautiful eyes. Aegon did not want to be ashamed in front of her, never.
Rhaegar pondered him for a second then nodded. He turned to the lords. "You may disburse my lords. My next calling will be made shortly."
The lords slowly filtered out back to their camps. It was Aegon who led the family of Targaryen and Martell through the halls of Harrenhall to the solar. He can feel the piercing gazes from all of them on his back. It burned. Aegon felt nervous and then angry. It is not my fault things went to shit! I could not see this happening. I did what I could, Aegon determined. The Tyrells were rotting in the cells for the punishments of Loras Tyrell and their conspiracy against the crown.
They came into the solar and were seated on cushions and chairs. The kingsguard stood guard outside the door. Arianne, Quentyn, Nymeria, Obara, Tyene was seated on one side. Oberyn with his paramour Ellaria and their children, Obella, Dorea, Loreza and Sarella sat on the other. Rhaegar and Elia sat in the middle. Daenerys and Rhaella sat in the corner.
Aegon intended to sit in a little corner by Dany but was stopped by his father's hand and voice. The king pointed to the center of the room. "Stand, Aegon."
Aegon bristled at being pointed out but did as he was told. There's no hey son how are you doing? He instead treats me like I'm a wrongdoer.
His mother's gaze and voice were softer. "What happened, Aegon? Where is Rhaenys?"
Here it is. Aegon met his parents' gazes and said, "She was stolen away by Loras Tyrell."
Elia gasped in grief, and Dany and Rhaella were shocked in silence, but Rhaegar stood, violet eyes blazing. He marched over to Aegon, right into his face, eye to eye. They were of the same height and build and look. It was mirror against mirror. "That is the princess of the crown. That is your sister!" Rhaegar hissed harshly. "How can you let her be taken away!"
Aegon stared at him back, refusing to be cowed. "How was I supposed to know the Tyrell would do that? Hmm? He is of the kingsguard, the member of the kingsguard you chose." He roared.
"Please, let's just focus on getting my daughter back," Elia begged.
"Then where are lady Margaery, your wife, and the rest of house Tyrell, hmm?" Rhaegar questioned, his nose flaring. "Where are they, Aegon?"
Aegon looked at everyone in the room, meeting all their gazes. He held Daenery's gaze a tad longer than the rest. I did my duty as the crown prince. It was that thought that brought the famous infectious smile on his face as he looked into his father's enraged eyes. "They are where they should be father, in the cells for ser Loras's crime." He waited for his father's praise.
He saw Rhaegar's face snarl with fury but did not see the fist. Aegon's cheek spazzed with pain. He was suddenly on his back, looking up at the king who stood threateningly over him. He hit me, Aegon thought with shock. He never laid a hand on me. Oberyn's bastard girls cried out. Everyone else was shocked into silence.
"Rhaegar!" Elia said angrily, standing up and pushing Rhaegar back. "Do not strike my son like that!"
Oberyn and Daenerys were there to help him to his feet. Oberyn pointed an angry finger at Rhaegar. "You do not dare to hit upon my sister's son again, you hear?" His voice was full of venom. "Or he shall ascend the iron throne quicker than anyone expected." There were gasps.
His words were met with the displeasure of the dowager queen. "You forget yourself. That is my son and our king."
Rhaegar ignored both to pin his fearsome gaze on Aegon. "You foolish boy. Do you not realize the number of men the Reach can field in battle? Did it ever, anytime at all, occur to you that we need their swords, and their food, against the gold of Casterly Rock? And you try to make them our enemies?"
Fuck you. You be a pussy if you want to. Aegon stood tall, ignoring the pain on the left side of his face. "We don't need them. We have Dorne, the Riverlands, the Vale, and the North." Even as he said those words, he didn't believe them. He just didn't want to look even more inept than he did right now in front of his whole family.
Rhaegar gave him a look of absolute disbelief. "Out of the four lands you just named out of your mouth, three of them had fought against the crown 17 years ago. You can't be serious, Aegon." He then sighed and shook his silver head sadly. "I have failed you, son. It says a lot about me, as a king and a father, that his heir acted with the same mannerisms the mad king did."
The whole room inhaled sharply.
"I am not my grandfather," Aegon hissed. He curled his fingers into fists. "I am not mad!" He shouted to prove his point. Everything he has done he has done it for the good of his house. But he was not good enough it seems. I'm his own son, his only son, and he compares me to his mad father. It hurt him more than it angered him.
"You don't mean that, Rhaegar. Apologize," Elia reprimanded him, being a mother to a son. "Aegon did something stupid, yes, but obviously our boy thought it was the right path."
"Stop cuddling him for doing something not only stupid but insane and reckless. You've done it since he was a little boy. He's a man now, or so I thought." Rhaegar's eyes traveled to his hip and to the pommel of Blackfyre and stayed there. "That is Blackfyre. How did you become an owner of such a sword thought lost."
It's mine. "Does it matter?" Aegon said defensively. "It was given to me and only me."
"Who gave it to you?" Rhaegar said in a voice that brooks no argument. Still, Aegon did not answer.
The king nodded his head and turned to Arianne. "Who gave him the sword and why?"
Arianne hesitated, obviously not wanting to go against her own cousin. She gave Aegon a sympathetic look before saying, "It was Jon snow, your grace, the bastard son of Eddard Stark and the white wolf of Essos. He took it off the Golden Company after slaying a hidden Blackfyre. And he did not specifically give the sword to Aegon. He wanted to return it to house Targaryen in general."
"Thank you." Rhaegar turned back to Aegon and held out his hand. "Give it to me."
"Why? Why do you punish me so?" Aegon demanded, heat rising from his neck.
"A sword of that caliber only goes to the worthiest of House Targaryen. And you are not that. Give it to me. I will not say it again." The hand stayed outstretched. Aegon eyed it warily like it was a bee.
No! It's mine! You shall not take this sword away from me! Aegon screamed internally. His hand moved on its own accord. The sword was placed in his father's hands.
Rhaegar placed the valyrian sword on the table and clasped his hands behind his back. "Now I will have no choice but to pardon ser Loras for the capture of Rhaenys. We will not chase away our most important ally in such a crucial hour. You are dismissed. Arthur!" The legendary kingsguard came in and was ordered to release the Tyrells from the cells with haste.
Aegon left the solar with the feeling of being a failure. Heat rose up to his neck and will not go away. A prince has never been shamed like that in history. Aegon was certain. Father does not love me. He despises me. I try, I try so hard to be the son he wants. But the son he wants died back at the tower of joy with Lyanna Stark. He always favored Rhaenys. He should love me for who I am!
"Aegon," a voice said behind him. The voice stopped him immediately because he knew who it was. It was Daenerys.
"Dany." Even with everything that transpired, a smile broke his face. He attempted to touch her, hug her, but she pushed him away. The smile slowly melted away by the seriousness of her face.
"Aegon, why do you do this foolishness?" She asked with a frown.
You know why. "Foolishness? Loras kidnapped my sister. They conspired against the crown. It's making things right."
"That's not it. You should know the acts of a brother should not reflect on the sister. You know that. My father was the mad king."
"Yes, my father was intent pointing out that I am Aerys come again." Aegon barked out a humorless laugh. "Such love that he maintains for his only son. He strikes me and takes Blackfyre off me. It's clear that if he had another son, he would make him heir instead of me."
"He loves you, Aegon. You are the heir to the throne. Rhaegar just wants you to be the best man you can be. He is hard on you, yes, but he still will always love his son."
Aegon moved in close and grabbed Daenerys's arm tenderly. "Not like how you love me, not even close." He got closer. "And not close to how I love you."
"We can't do this, Aegon. Those dreams we had together, they are over."
"Dreams live forever," Aegon stressed, rubbing her face. "We have a chance. With the Tyrell's feeling slighted, they will advocate for an annulment of my marriage with Margaery. Then I can marry you like I should've done a long time ago."
"No!" Daenerys ripped away from him, angry now. "We are going into war, and you are still acting like a child with a child's dream!"
Aegon now grew angry. "Watch your tongue."
"No, watch yours. You are willing to throw our house into the fire just because of a selfish desire that should've withered out years ago. That is mad."
Mad. That word brought him new levels of anger. He huffed through his nose. "You think I am mad too, huh?"
Daenerys gave him a look, a look he fell for years ago. "I began to think so. The man I fell in love with would not have done what you've done."
"You don't love me now, is that it?" Aegon questioned.
Daenerys's face grew hard. "No, I don't. And it is time to grow up and be a proper husband to Margaery and a suitable prince to the realm." Aegon's heart dropped and shattered into a million pieces.
Aegon smiled, and it was cold. "Fuck you. I should've understood you never held love for me when you left me years ago. You are a vile whore who led me astray. I hate you."
Daenerys stared at him for a long moment, just standing there. Then she left without another word. Aegon stared at her retreating back. For a moment, he wanted to run after her to hug her and apologize for the harsh words he didn't mean. Then he gathered himself. She said she didn't love me, so I don't love her, Aegon thought.
I hate the Lannisters, the Baratheon's, the Tyrells, father, and you.
Jon
It was in the morn did they depart. Loras's face had gone bone white when Jon told him he had to get on Cannibal's back. Jon thought he died when Cannibal turned to him and showed him his black teeth. Loras was even more silent during the ride, tied against Cannibal's many spikes. When they landed not too far off from Harrenhall, the Tyrell had vomited promptly.
Jon mentally called for Ghost. Twenty minutes later, the albino Direwolf came sprinting across the undergrowth. Rhaenys got to the wolf even before Jon did. "Aren't you a cute little boy?" She swooned despite the fact the Direwolf was as big as she is. Ghost rolled out his tongue contently as the princess scratched him behind his ear. Rhaenys gave a sly smile to Jon, one of the many looks the princess snuck him so far.
It was just a harmless kiss, nothing more, Jon told himself. That's all that's going to come out of us. Last night, Jon had pulled away before they got too carried away. Rhaenys had accepted that without a word and did not push it. The princess had fallen asleep on his shoulder. Jon was grateful, but it took him a while to fall asleep with his breeches so tight. No doubt the princess had felt it. I shan't shame her, Jon thought determinedly. Rhaenys did not know the truth about who he is. Jon did. How would she feel if she found out that she slept with her half-brother? Perhaps…she wouldn't care. Targaryens do it all the time. But I was not raised that way. We will not do anything if she doesn't know the full picture.
It was hard. It was hard especially when Jon can see the challenge in her eyes, daring him to get what she knew he wanted. They rode on Ghost. Loras trailed behind them bounded by a rope. Rhaenys scooted back against Jon, and he can feel all of her on his manhood. She looked back at him innocently. "What's the matter?"
"Look forward," Jon growled out. "We will not play your games right now."
Rhaenys laughed and did as he said. Though, the rubbing did not stop.
To distract himself, Jon thought of his nightmare. There was a version of himself but with gemstones instead of eyes. He assumed he killed everyone, and he had the sword of fire. There was a being, with sapphire gemstone eyes that raised the dead with a flick of his wrist. What does this all mean? Jon thought frustratingly. Glass candles liked to torment its viewers, but some of the contents held truth. He was frustrated, and that's why he had the book he meant to read earlier in his hands. I will read it when we get back to camp. Everything had to do with gemstones, and he will find out what it is.
They soon reached the grounds of Harrenhall. Curious eyes turned into shouts out their mouth as men and women poked their heads out of their pavilions to announce the return of the princess. They passed under the gates, and four Targaryen men came forward.
"This is where I leave you," Jon informed Rhaenys. He dismounted Ghost and gave the tangled and miserable-looking Loras over to the guards. They gave him a look of awe. "The rumors of the white wolf are true," Jon heard them whisper. "The king will be pleased."
Rhaenys caught the last word. She turned to one of the guards. "My father is here?" she questioned with a hopeful smile.
"Yes, my princess."
The king has arrived then. Jon didn't know how to feel about that.
Rhaenys then turned to Jon to frown unhappily. "We should ride to meet my father as one on your Direwolf. Come forward, and he will reward you. You deserve it."
That thought filled him with unease he tried to not let show. Jon picked Rhaenys off Ghost and placed her on solid ground. His lips curled at Rhaenys's mutter of displeasure. "Maybe another day. I have a book to read." Jon tapped the cover of the book, bowed, and started to walk away.
"Read a damn book?!" He heard her shout after him. "Can the princess's wishes come first?!"
Jon and Ghost made it to the flap of his tent. Before he can go inside, a heavy hand fell upon his shoulder. Lord Umber and all the lords of the north that traveled to the tourney stood there, staring at him with high degrees of anger and betrayal.
Shit.
Benjen
It was cold. Freezing cold, a cold where a man can die with all sorts of frostbites. And the whistling wind cut him deeper than any sharp sword. But the brother of Eddard Stark pushed forward. He clutched the horn in his gloved hands. They cannot get their hands on this, Benjen thought frantically. It will bring an end to humanity for all we know and love. He thought of his nephews and nieces…and Jon snow. The thought of the boy lit a newfound fire in his belly. Benjen had heard of his return before his ranging beyond the wall. I must live…to tell him the truth of what he truly is. We all owe him that much. Ned will never tell him.
The creatures of ice and death followed him. They took their time. They were lazy. They were playing a sport. They had his brothers hunted down and killed by ice spiders as big as hounds. There was only him…and one other.
Qhorin halfhand was right next to him, panting and struggling to move his feet through the snow. "Don't stop, Stark. Don't stop," the man kept gasping out for what seemed to be an eternity now. "They cannot get their hands on that horn. The wall would fall. We must keep moving, for the watch."
Aye but to where? Benjen thought grimly and clutched the horn closer to his black cloak.
The sound of mocking laughter echoed behind them, like the cracking of ice.